bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short Communication: Medicinal plants traditionally used to treat hypertension in Babane Village, Bengkayang, West Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: PANJAITAN RUQIAH GANDA PUTRI , KRISTI YOUVA , IRAWAN BUDI , SALLEH LIZA MD
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Panjaitan RGP, Kristi Y, Irawan B, Salleh LM. 2024. Short Communication: Medicinal plants traditionally used to treat hypertension in Babane Village, Bengkayang, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 3121-3129. One of the non-pharmacological treatments to treat hypertension is by herbal therapy using medicinal plants. This study aims to document medicinal plants to treat hypertension by the people of Babane Village, Bengkayang District, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The method used in this research is the descriptive qualitative method. Data collection was carried out by semi-structured interviews and observations to informants selected using a purposive sampling method including traditional healers. This research documented 26 species of medicinal plants used traditionally as antihypertensives by the people in Babane Village consisting of Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeusch., Ixora coccinea Comm. ex Lam., Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb., Allium sativum L., Averrhoa carambola L., Pachyrhizus erosus (L.) Urb., Tinospora crispa (L.) Miers ex Hook.fil. & Thomson, Andrographis paniculata (Burm.fil.) Nees, Gymnanthemum amygdalinum (Delile) Sch.Bip. ex Walp., Physalis angulata L., Moringa oleifera Lam., Ricinus communis L., Mitragyna speciosa Korth., Phaleria macrocarpa (Scheff.) Boerl., Morinda citrifolia L., Phyllanthus niruri L., Annona muricata L., Eurycoma longifolia Jack, Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav., Passiflora foetida L., Leonurus japonicus Houtt., Melastoma malabathricum L., Curcuma xanthorriza Roxb., Cucumis sativus L., Syzygium polyanthum (Wight) Walp. The leaves are the most commonly used part of the plant because of their antihypertensive properties while boiling is the most common processing technique.
Assessment of spatio-temporal dynamics of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: HIDAYAH ZAINUL , RACHMAN HERLAMBANG AULIA , WIYANTO DWI BUDI
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Hidayah Z, Rachman HA, Wiyanto DB. 2024. Assessment of spatio-temporal dynamics of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 3138-3150. Mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, Banyuwangi District, East Java, Indonesia is located in a semi-enclosed bay area on the east coast of Java Island and bordering with Bali Strait. Since 2020, this location has been designated as an Essential Ecosystem Area (EEA) by the Indonesia Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Regardless of its designation as an EEA, information on vegetation stucture and spatio-temporal changes of Teluk Pangpang’s mangrove forest is limited. The availability of multi-temporal medium to high-resolution satellite imagery data enables researchers to monitor the condition of mangrove ecosystem using long-term data and reliable spatial continuity. The objective of this study is to investigate vegetation community structure of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, as well as to determine the changes in extent and condition of mangrove forest measured as Mangrove Health Index (MHI) between 2015 and 2023 using remote sensing and GIS analysis. Spatio-temporal dynamics of MHI was determined using Sentinel-2 imagery data from 2015, 2018 and 2023. Meanwhile, a series of extensive survey in 15 transects with a total of 75 plots were conducted to obtain field data. The results showed that Rhizophora apiculata Blume and R. mucronata Lam. were the most important species with Important Value Index (IVI) of 140.91 and 148.24, respectively. Meanwhile, Sentinel-2 image processing results revealed a major increase in mangrove’s area, from 643.35 ha in 2015 to 737.51 ha in 2023. Furthermore, MHI analysis indicated improving conditions of mangrove ecosystem, as evidenced by the significant increased of mangroves area at the excellent MHI category (MHI>66.8) from 11.00 ha in 2015 to 175.86 ha in 2023. Based on Principal Component Analysis (PCA) several environmental parameters were strongly correlated to MHI including salinity, DO, TSS and mangrove’s diversity index. The findings of this study, primarily the application of MHI approach, may provide an alternative strategy for monitoring the dynamics of vegetation cover of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang and other mangrove areas in Indonesia.
The fibrinolytic potential of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens isolates from salt-fermented shrimp paste terasi
Authors: PINONTOAN REINHARD , CITY SANNIA , WIDJAJA ANASTHASIA NATHANIA , PURNOMO JONATHAN SUCIONO , DIKSON DIKSON
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Pinontoan R, City S, Widjaja AN, Purnomo JS, Dikson. 2024. The fibrinolytic potential of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens isolates from salt-fermented shrimp paste terasi. Biodiversitas 25: 3193-3199. Thrombosis, a major pathology in Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs), significantly contributes to global mortality. Although medicinal prevention and management of recurrent thromboses do exist, alternative means using natural sources are actively sought because of their lower costs, better compatibility, and lower risks of side effects. Due to their beneficial microorganisms, fermented foods offer a potential thrombolytic source for managing CVDs. In this study, we aimed to isolate and identify bacteria with thrombolytic activity from fermented shrimp paste terasi. Potential protease-producing bacteria from terasi were determined via cell and colony morphology, biochemical properties, and 16S rRNA sequence analyses. Subsequently, the thrombolytic and fibrinolytic activities of the bacteria were assessed by performing whole-blood clot tests and fibrin degradation assays; two protease-producing bacteria, designated as TJU5 and TMAD4 isolates were identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. The isolates demonstrated thrombolytic activity by significantly reducing whole-blood clot mass after 2 h of incubation. The thrombolytic mechanism involves fibrinolysis indicated by the rapid degradation of A?, B?, and ? fibrin chains observed within 1 min of incubation. These findings highlight the beneficial bacteria from fermented shrimp paste terasi, identified as B. amyloliquefaciens TJU5 and TMAD4, with high thrombolytic and fibrinolytic activities, underscoring their potential role in bolstering cardiovascular health.
Blooming calendar and polliniferous plants in Djuanda Great Forest Park, West Java, Indonesia: Implication for beekeeping management
Authors: HUSODO TEGUH , WULANDARI INDRI , SYAPUTRI YOLANI , KASMARA HIKMAT , HERMAWAN WAWAN , KUSMORO JOKO , SHANIDA SYA SYA , KHAIRINA FADIAH , HAYDAR M. RIFKY ALIF , ASYRAF M. NAUFAL , FEBRIAN RIFKY ROCHIMAT
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Husodo T, Wulandari I, Saputri Y, Kasmara H, Hermawan W, Kusmoro J, Shanida SS, Khairina F, Haydar MRA, Asyraf MN, Febrian RR. 2024. Blooming calendar and polliniferous plants in Djuanda Great Forest Park, West Java, Indonesia: Implication for beekeeping management. Biodiversitas 25: 3216-3229. Information was unavailable regarding the types of pollinator plants and their blooming periods in Djuanda Great Forest Park, West Java, Indonesia. Information about flower blooming seasons was useful for various purposes. These findings will provide a basis for understanding the importance of Apis cerana Fabricius, 1793 in plant pollination and plant species resources for honey bees so that beekeeping practices can be carried out sustainably. The blossoming period of a plant is determined by its blooming period at the time of observation. The blooming period is observed every month in the second and fourth weeks for six months (December 2021-May 2022). Pollen collection was carried out in August 2021 (dry season). Pollen identification was carried out using the acetolysis method, which involves dissolving the non-pollen components of a sample to reveal the pollen grains, thereby enabling accurate identification. An overview of the observation records revealed the presence of 249 plant species from 82 families. The Asteraceae family has the most abundant species richness. Most plants were identified as pollinator plants (30.52%), nectariferous plants (10.04%), and plants that produce both (18.47%). Flowering plants of melliferous plants for honeybees are available throughout the rest of the year, especially from December to May. Therefore, to optimize honey harvesting, it is important to establish multiple colonies during periods of large honey flows. Honeybees may use alternative sugar sources beekeepers provide, such as fruit juice, during nectar scarcity. We would like to know more about the year-round bloom calendar. Sharing knowledge with farmers about the availability of melliferous plants in certain months will empower them to make decisions for sustainable beekeeping.
Heavy metals concentration in sediment and their bioaccumulation in several organisms in Benoa Bay and Lembongan Island, Bali, Indonesia
Authors: PUTRI PUTU YUDI ADITYA , RASTINA RASTINA , PRARTONO TRI , ISMET MEUTIA SAMIRA
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Putri PYA, Rastina, Prartono T, Ismet MS. 2024. Heavy metals concentration in sediment and their bioaccumulation in several organisms in Benoa Bay and Lembongan Island, Bali, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 3230-3238. Human activities could be responsible for introducing heavy metals into coastal areas, and it can contaminate coastal waters such as the tourism area of Benoa Bay and coastal ecosystems of Lembongan Island, Bali, Indonesia. This study aimed to assess the extent of heavy metals on the sediment of those area and their accumulation rate in several marine organisms, including macro-algae (Ulva sp.), seagrass (Thalassia hemprichii), and sea urchin (Diadema sp.). Samples of surface sediments and marine organisms were collected at six stations for both areas and the presence of five heavy metals (Fe, Pb, Cd, Cu, and Cr) was determined using the AAS method. The concentration those metals varied significantly across the six stations. The geo-accumulation index showed that the sediment has been contaminated by Pb and Cd. The ecological risk of heavy metals contamination in Benoa Bay was apparently higher compared to that in Lembongan Island. Marine organisms in Benoa Bay also significantly accumulated heavy metals than those observed in Lembongan Island. Bioconcentration factor (BCF) shows that Cd, Cr, and Pb were the most accumulated heavy metals in marine organisms (BCF>1). It, therefore, suggest that future studies of the bioavailability of heavy metals and exploration the varying capacities of marine organisms are required. Such important information can be used to predict the accumulation of heavy metals in human bodies, and the possibly daily consumption of marine organisms caught from Benoa Bay and Lembongan Island waters.
Growth and productivity of stevia variety Cibodas Manis 3 (Stevia rebaudiana) in 40 days planting with agroforestry
Authors: CHOERIAH MILA NADIA , WIJAYANTO NURHENI , BATUBARA IRMANIDA
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Choeriah MN, Wijayanto N, Batubara I. 2024. Growth and productivity of stevia variety Cibodas Manis 3 (Stevia rebaudiana) in 40 days planting with agroforestry. Biodiversitas 25: 3277-3283. Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni.) is a shrub plant that can be used as a substitute for sugar cane and has the potential to be cultivated in agroforestry ways. This study aims to analyze the growth and productivity of stevia in agroforestry systems compared to monocultures. Stevia was planted in 2 types of land, namely agroforestry and monoculture. The research location's soil and area's climatic conditions were observed stevia agroforestry was grown under pine, eucalyptus, and coffee trees. During stevia planting, the height was measured. Stevia was harvested 40 days after planting, and leaf area, number of leaves, leaf weight, and harvest productivity were measured. In addition, chlorophyll and stevioside yields were analyzed using UV VIS and LC-MS/MS spectrometry. Stevia in agroforestry land had higher chlorophyll and stevioside content than monoculture, although not as good as stevia in monoculture, which had higher height, number of leaves, leaf area, wet weight, dry weight, and productivity compared to agroforestry. The total stevioside produced from agroforestry land was 1.63 kg/ha, while it was 2.19 kg/ha from monoculture land. Stevia in agroforestry land also has a higher secondary metabolite content than in monoculture. This is related to the growing conditions that stress stevia. Pearson correlation test results also show a relationship between the amount of chlorophyll and the stevioside content in stevia plants.
A Proposal of an Isothermal q-EoS for Solids at High Pressures
Authors: Alves Álvaro Santos , A. Farias Franz , Neves dos Santos Rodrigo
Published: October 2024

We present a new approach to the isothermal equation of  state for solids when subjected to high pressures. The central point lies in the fact that the solid subjected to high pressures presents non-linear elastic behavior. We show how the connection between the q-deformed finite deformation theory and the mathematical formalism of Non-Extensive Statistical Mechanics, as postulated by Tsallis [1], allows us to achieve a q-deformed equation of state. We also establish the associated q-deformed interatomic potential and discuss its relation to the Grüneisen parameter.
Resenhas Críticas de “A Escalada do Homem” de Jacob Bronowski e “Cosmos” de Carl Sagan
Authors: De Almeida Marques Ivo
Published: October 2024

No presente trabalho apresentamos resenhas críticas dos livros/séries “A Escalada do Homem” de Jacob Bronowski e “Cosmos” de Carl Sagan. As resenhas foram realizadas capítulo/episódio a capítulo/episódio. Em certo sentido “Cosmos” pode ser visto como uma continuação de “A Escalada do Homem”. Esperamos que o artigo seja utilizado pelos interessados como uma introdução e/ou leitura paralela complementar aos livros/séries em questão. Dessa forma, o leitor poderá ampliar o ganho advindo do contato com as obras-primas de Jacob Bronowski e Carl Sagan.
Homogenization of motion equations for medium consisting of elastic material and incompessible Kelvin-Voigt fluid
Authors: Shamaev Aleksey Stanislavovich , Shumilova Vladlena Valerievna
Published: October 2024

We consider an initial-boundary problem describing the motion of a two-phase medium with a periodic structure. The first phase of the medium is an isotropic elastic material and the second phase is an incompressible viscoelastic Kelvin-Voigt fluid. This problem consists of second and fourth order partial differential equations, conditions of continuity of displacements and stresses at the phase boundaries, and homogeneous initial and boundary conditions. Using the Laplace transform method, we derive a homogenized problem, which is an initial boundary value problem for the system of fourth order partial integro-differential equations with constant coefficients. The coefficients and convolution kernels of the homogenized equations are found by using solutions of auxiliary periodic problems on the unit cube. In the case of a layered medium, the solutions of the periodic problems are written explicitly, and this allows us to find analytic expressions for the homogenized coefficients and convolution kernels. In particular, we establish that the type and properties of the homogenized convolution kernels depend on the volume fraction of the fluid layers inside the periodicity cell.
Inequalities for meromorphic functions with prescribed poles
Authors: Mir Mohd Yousf , Shah Wali Mohammad , Wali S L
Published: October 2024

The extremal problems for functions of complex variables, as well as approaches for obtaining classical inequalities on the base of various methods of the geometric function theory, are known for various norms and for many classes of functions such as rational functions with various constraints and for various domains in the complex plane. It is important to mention that different types of Bernstein-type inequalities appeared in the literature in more generalized forms in which the underlying polynomial was replaced by a more general class of functions. One such generalization is the passage from polynomials to rational functions. In this paper, we prove some inequalities for meromorphic functions with prescribed poles and restricted zeros. These results not only generalize some Bernstein-type inequalities for rational functions, but also improve and generalize some known polynomial inequalities. These inequalities have their own importance in the approximation theory.
Geometry of sub - Riemannian manifolds equipped with a semimetric quarter - symmetric connection
Authors: Bukusheva Aliya Vladimirovna , Galaev Sergei Vasil'evich
Published: October 2024

On a sub-Riemannian manifold we introduce a semimetric quarter-symmetric connection by defining intrinsic metric connection and two structural endomorphisms preserving the distribution on a sub-Riemannian manifold. We find conditions ensuring the metric property of the introduced connection. We clarify the nature of the structural endomorphisms of semimetric connection consistent with a sub-Riemannian quasi-static structure defined on non-holonomic Kenmotsu manifold and on almost quasi-Sasakian manifold. We find conditions, under which the mentioned manifolds are Einstein manifolds with respect to the quarter-symmetric connection.
Unknown coefficient problem for mixed equation of parabolic-hyperbolic type with non-local boundary conditions on characteristics
Authors: Durdiev Durdimurod Kalandarovich
Published: October 2024

For an equation of a mixed parabolic-hyperbolic type with a characteristic line of type change, we study the inverse problem associated with the search for an unknown coefficient at the lowest term of the parabolic equation. In the direct problem, we consider an analog of the Tricomi problem for this equation with a nonlocal condition on the characteristics in the hyperbolic part and the Dirichlet condition in the parabolic part of the domain. In order to determine the unknown coefficient by the solution on the parabolic part of the domain, the integral overdetermination condition is proposed. Global results on the unique solvability of the inverse problem in the sense of the classical solution are proved.
Well-posedness and stability result for Timoshenko system with thermodiffusion effects and time-varying delay term
Authors: Rahmoune Abdelaziz , Khaldi Oussama , Ouchenane Djamel , Yazid Fares
Published: October 2024

The main aim of the present paper is to investigate a new Timoshenko beam model with thermal and mass diffusion effects combined with a time-varying delay. Heat and mass exchange with the environment during a thermodiffusion in the Timoshenko beam, where the heat conduction is given by the classical Fourier law and acts on both the rotation angle and the transverse displacements. The heat conduction is given by the Cattaneo law. Under an appropriate assumption on the weights of the delay and the damping, we prove a well-posedness result, more precisely, we prove the existence of the weak solution. Then we proceed to the strong solution using the classical elliptic regularity and we get the result by applying the Lax-Milgram theorem, the Lumer-Phillips corollary and the Hille-Yosida theorem. We show the exponential stability result of the system in the case of nonequal speeds of wave propagation by using a multiplier technique combined with an appropriate Lyapunov functions. Our result is optimal in the sense that the assumptions on the deterministic part of the equation as well as the initial condition are the same as in the classical PDEs theory. To achieve our goals, we employ of the semigroup method and the energy method.
Wine Tourism in México and the New Architecture of Wineries
Authors: Fernandez Maria Jose
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this paper is to present the architecture of wineries as a key element to promote wine tourism and to present the various activities that fall under the concept of wine tourism. This work is based on an analysis of the new architecture of wine cellars in Mexico and a literature review of recent articles explaining the main activities in which wine tourists take part. We conclude that Mexican wineries with contemporary and functional architectural projects have not used their architecture as part of their marketing, as others have done in different parts of the world. This presents an important topic of study because wine cellar architecture could be a creative means to promote wine tourism in Mexico.
Gastronomy tourism as a tool for the development of regions
Authors: Liutikas Darius
Published: October 2024

This article presents the main activities of gastronomy tourism by illustrating them with examples from Latvia and Lithuania and discusses the significance of gastronomy tourism for the development of the countries’ regions. The examples of such activities as food and drink themed events and festivals, gastronomy routes and trails, farm visits and visits of the local restaurants, educations and tastings, museums and thematic exhibitions, excursions to factories and farms, and visiting of local markets are discussed. The benefits of gastronomy tourism, such as the generation of revenue, development of tourism infrastructure, preservation of cultural heritage, dissemination of regional knowledge, creation of positive image and identity, and promotion of community engagement, are identified as important factors for local and regional development.
Turisme gastronòmic: Una anàlisi sistèmica
Authors: Tort Najat
Published: October 2024

El turisme gastronòmic s’ha convertit en un tema d’estudi important en la investigació turística. Aquesta investigació examina l’evolució de la recerca del turisme gastronòmic entre el 1979 i 2022, en l’àrea temàtica de les ciències socials. Amb aquesta finalitat es desenvolupa una revisió sistèmica que inclou, l’anàlisi bibliomètrica de publicacions indexades i l’aproximació conceptual, identificant els principals temes de recerca, perspectives i enfocaments disciplinaris. L’estudi bibliomètric va identificar 681 publicacions com articles de recerca sobre turisme gastronòmic. Els resultats de la investigació revelen que aquest tema de recerca augmenta després de l’any 2013 amb una perspectiva des del màrqueting i la gestió. Pel que fa als conceptes relacionats, els resultats mostren que el més utilitzat és el "turisme d’aliments" però n'hi ha d'altres utilitzats indistintament com el turisme culinari o el turisme gastronòmic. L’estudi mostra que la majoria de les definicions influents del turisme gastronòmic són relativament antigues i que no s’han produït de noves. Les principals línies d’investigació són la relació entre turisme gastronòmic i cultura, la gastronomia com a recurs turístic, la gastronomia com a eina de promoció i el perfil del turista gastronòmic.
Generation and practical controlling of adaptative structured photorefractive moiré patterns for optical metrology applications
Authors: Glória I. B. , de Oliveira G. N. , dos Santos P. A. M.
Published: October 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive account of the generation and control of dynamic structured moiré patterns produced holographically in straightforward laboratory procedures. The process entails superimposing sinusoidal gratings on the Bi12TiO20 (BTO) photorefractive crystal as the dynamic holographic medium. We will provide a detailed account of the straightforward optical procedures and instrumental operations that facilitate the generation of these patterns with convenient geometries. Some of the notable applications that have already been demonstrated include profilometry and numerical representation, while others, such as structured illumination microscopy (SIM), are still under development.
Research on wireless channel model based on improved ray tracing algorithm that considers multiple diffuse scattering and employs pyramid-shaped ray tubes as the carrier
Authors: Yao Qi , Liu Zhongyu , Guo Lixin , Wang Yuanxi , Guo Lantu , Zhao Jun , Zuo Weiqing
Published: October 2024

This paper extensively utilizes fine three dimensional environmental data obtained from laser point clouds. Based on theories such as geometrical optics and effective roughness theory, a deterministic wireless channel model is established, which integrates higher-order diffuse scattering. This model is referred to as the ray tracing fusion with higher-order diffuse scattering model. To expedite the collision calculation between rays and the scene, this paper introduces a combined approach of voxelization and signed distance field, resulting in a remarkable 16-fold improvement in computational speed. Moreover, aiming to balance accuracy and efficiency, the paper systematically analyzes the optimization computation parameters of the model. Finally, the proposed model is validated using measurement data in the frequency range of 1 GHz to 6 GHz in mountainous terrain. The results indicate that the predicted outcomes of the proposed model have an accuracy within 6 dB compared to the measurement results, and are superior to ITU-R P.1546, which is an international standard recommended by the International Telecommunication Union for modeling electromagnetic wave propagation in undulating terrain. This provides necessary technical support for network planning and optimization.
The degree of unpolarization (DoUP): A single metric for all possible unpolarized beams
Authors: Raju Sethuraj Karimparambil , Ollis Trevor , Vamivakas Nickolas
Published: October 2024

Unpolarized light is foundational in many optical technologies, yet current metrics fail to fully capture its complexity, especially when considering hidden or nonuniform polarization states. To overcome this, we introduce the degree of unpolarization (DoUP), a single, comprehensive metric that quantifies unpolarized beams across various sources. The DoUP is developed within a newly conceptualized normalized polarization probability space, termed J-space. This framework allows for precise comparisons of unpolarized beams and standardizes their quantification.
Our findings reveal that fully unpolarized beams achieve a DoUP value of unity, while other beams deviate from this ideal, offering critical insights into their polarization behavior. By resolving these nuances, the DoUP metric opens up new avenues for optical technologies, from advanced photonic systems to quantum information science. This advancement promises a deeper understanding of polarization and broader applications in fields that rely on the precise manipulation of light.
Beyond traditional methods: Innovative integration of LISS IV and Sentinel 2A imagery for unparalleled insight into Himalayan ibex habitat suitability
Authors: Dutta Ritam , Sharma Lalit Kumar , Joshi Bheem Dutt , Kumar Vineet , Sharief Amira , Bhattacharjee Saurav , Thakur Mukesh , Banerjee Dhriti , Babu Rajappa
Published: October 2024

The utilization of satellite images in conservation research is becoming more prevalent due to advancements in remote sensing technologies. To achieve accurate classification of wildlife habitats, it is important to consider the different capabilities of spectral and spatial resolution. Our study aimed to develop a method for accurately classifying habitat types of the Himalayan ibex (Capra sibirica) using satellite data. We used LISS IV and Sentinel 2A data to address both spectral and spatial issues. Furthermore, we integrated the LISS IV data with the Sentinel 2A data, considering their individual geometric information. The Random Forest approach outperformed other algorithms in supervised classification techniques. The integrated image had the highest level of accuracy, with an overall accuracy of 86.17% and a Kappa coefficient of 0.84. Furthermore, to delineate the suitable habitat for the Himalayan ibex, we employed ensemble modelling techniques that incorporated Land Cover Land Use data from LISS IV, Sentinel 2A, and Integrated image, separately. Additionally, we incorporated other predictors including topographical features, soil and water radiometric indices. The integrated image demonstrated superior accuracy in predicting the suitable habitat for the species. The identification of suitable habitats was found to be contingent upon the consideration of two key factors: the Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index and elevation. The study findings are important for advancing conservation measures. Using accurate classification methods helps identify important landscape components. This study offers a novel and important approach to conservation planning by accurately categorising Land Cover Land Use and identifying critical habitats for the species.
Believing that difficulty signals importance improves school outcomes by bolstering academic possible identities, a recursive analysis
Authors: Burbidge Alysia , Zhu Shimin , Cheung Sing-Hang , Oyserman Daphna
Published: October 2024

Identity-based motivation theory predicts that how sure students are of attaining their academic possible identities (possible identity certainty) interacts recursively with the inferences they make thinking about schoolwork feels hard—this is important for me (difficulty-as-importance) and this is just not for me (difficulty-as-impossibility). Recursivity implies bidirectionality across time points. To date, studies primarily from the U.S. and China only document a shift up or down from one time to a second time. We address this method gap with a three-time-point, two-month study during a secondary school transition (Chinese students N = 818, Mage = 12, 44% female). We obtained prior grades (T0) and placement test scores (T1+). Students filled out questionnaires at critical junctures: a month before the placement test (T1), the day test results were announced (T2), and after learning their school placement (T3). Across three time points, structural equation model results show bidirectional paths linking academic possible identity certainty and difficulty-as-importance beliefs. Controlling for prior grades, students higher in possible identity certainty at T1 scored higher on their placement tests at T1+. Students with higher T1+ placement test scores had higher difficulty-as-importance at T2, controlling for T1 their difficulty-as-importance score. Students with higher T2 difficulty-as-importance had higher T3 possible identity certainty, controlling for their T2 possible identity certainty score. The reverse was also true—students with higher T2 possible identity certainty had higher T3 difficulty-as-importance, controlling for their T2 difficulty-as-importance score. In contrast, controlling for prior scores, from T1 to T2 and T2 to T3 possible identity certainty and difficulty-as-impossibility were unidirectionally related. Students with higher possible identity certainty had lower difficulty-as-impossibility beliefs and not the reverse. Taken together, our results support a recursive process by which difficulty-as-importance beliefs support academic goal pursuit by bolstering students’ certainty of attaining their possible identities and certainty reduces difficulty-as-impossibility beliefs.
Corneal nerve loss in adolescents with obesity and acanthosis nigricans
Authors: Gad Hoda , Dauleh Hajar , Chirayath Shiga , Amin Rasha , Pasha Maheen , Elgassim Einas , Haris Basma , Mohamadsalih Ghassan , Jolkka Sari , Biglang-awa Roshirl , Cuatrona Erlinda , Inso Gina , Razon Gerald , Hendaus Mohamed A. , Wahbeh Farah , Sajjadi Fatima , Al-Hashimi Yasmeen , AlNassr Noor , Petropoulos Ioannis N. , Ponirakis Georgios , Hussain Khalid , Malik Rayaz A.
Published: October 2024

Background/Aim

Obesity and related metabolic abnormalities in adults are associated with peripheral neuropathy. Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is associated with insulin resistance, fatty liver, hyperlipidemia and glucose intolerance, all of which are risk factors for neuropathy. The aim of this study was to investigate if obese adolescents with AN have evidence of small nerve fiber damage.

Material and methods

Adolescents with obesity with and without AN underwent body composition analysis, assessment of vibration perception threshold (VPT), monofilament sensitivity and corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) to quantify corneal nerve fiber density (CNFD), branch density (CNBD), length (CNFL) and inferior whorl length (IWL).

Results

Forty-six participants with obesity with (n = 31) and without (n = 15) AN aged 15(14–17) years were compared to 20 healthy controls aged 13(12–14) years. There was no difference in VPT, monofilament sensitivity and CCM measures between adolescents with obesity and controls. However, adolescents with AN had a significantly higher weight (P = 0.022), fat% (P = 0.029) and fat-muscle ratio (P = 0.012) with a lower CNFD (P = 0.045) compared to those with obesity without AN.

Conclusion

Adolescents with obesity and acanthosis nigricans have a higher fat mass and small nerve fibre loss, indicative of a sub-clinical neuropathy.
Pollution and health risk assessments related to heavy metals on three prominent beaches in Makkah Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Concerning levels of cadmium pollution
Authors: Alayyafi Abdulaziz , Ebqa’ai Mohammad , Alboqai Omar , Abotaleb Ahmed , Eldesoky Ahmed , Shahawy Abeer El
Published: October 2024

Beach pollution can impact the health of people living in or visiting coastal areas. The primary goal of this research was to investigate the presence of heavy metal pollutants and associated health risks in three distinct coastal cities, Jeddah, Al-Lith, and Al-Qunfudhah, located along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. Forty-three soil samples were collected from different locations, heavy metals including Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Cd, and Pb were isolated, and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Various metrics such as pollution indices (PI), integrated pollution indices (IPI), enrichment factors (EF), daily dose averages (ADD), hazard quotients (HQ), and hazard indices (HI), as well as principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis were employed to evaluate the environmental impacts and health risks posed by these heavy metals. The results revealed that Fe, Pb, Cu, Mn, and Zn concentrations in beach zones were below their respective background levels, while concentrations of Cd exceeded corresponding background levels. PCA revealed the highest levels of Pb, Fe, and Mn on Al-Qundudah beach, while Cd and Cu were highest on Al-Lith beach, and Zn was highest on Jeddah beach. PI values highlighted extremely high levels of Cd pollution on all designated beaches. The findings provide a foundational basis for further investigations into health problems potentially related to Cd contamination, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), osteomalacia, and osteoporosis.
Optimizing water use efficiency in greenhouse cucumber cultivation: A comparative study of intelligent irrigation systems
Authors: Behzadipour Faeze , Ghasemi-Nejad-Raeini Mahmoud , Mehdizadeh Saman Abdanan , Taki Morteza , Moghadam Bijan Khalili , Bavani Mohammad Reza Zare
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the use of an intelligent irrigation system for greenhouse cucumber cultivation, aiming to manage water consumption efficiently. During the initial phase, irrigation was tested at four levels: 80%, 90%, and 100% of Field Capacity (FC), and Conventional Flood Irrigation (CFI). Data on environmental conditions and water usage were meticulously recorded. Optimal yields and crop quality (measured by size and firmness) were achieved at CFI and 100% FC, with CFI consuming the most water (0.148 m3/m2) Consequently, 100% FC was identified as the best practice, informing the intelligent system’s calibration in the subsequent phase. This adjustment resulted in reduced water consumption and a 15.6% improvement in Water Use Efficiency (WUE) over CFI. Additionally, by examining the product performance and the color characteristics, chlorophyll content, and photosynthesis of the leaves, it was observed that the quality and optimal water supply and the product performance were maintained in the smart irrigation system. The study concludes that, considering long-term outcomes, the intelligent irrigation system is preferable to CFI, offering significant water savings and enhanced WUE without compromising crop quality.
Combining metabolomics and machine learning to discover biomarkers for early-stage breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Anh Nguyen Ky , Lee Anbok , Phat Nguyen Ky , Yen Nguyen Thi Hai , Thu Nguyen Quang , Tien Nguyen Tran Nam , Kim Ho-Sook , Kim Tae Hyun , Kim Dong Hyun , Kim Hee-Yeon , Phuoc Long Nguyen
Published: October 2024

There is an urgent need for better biomarkers for the detection of early-stage breast cancer. Utilizing untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics in conjunction with advanced data mining approaches for metabolism-centric biomarker discovery and validation may enhance the identification and validation of novel biomarkers for breast cancer screening. In this study, we employed a multimodal omics approach to identify and validate potential biomarkers capable of differentiating between patients with breast cancer and those with benign tumors. Our findings indicated that ether-linked phosphatidylcholine exhibited a significant difference between invasive ductal carcinoma and benign tumors, including cases with inconsistent mammography results. We observed alterations in numerous lipid species, including sphingomyelin, triacylglycerol, and free fatty acids, in the breast cancer group. Furthermore, we identified several dysregulated hydrophilic metabolites in breast cancer, such as glutamate, glycochenodeoxycholate, and dimethyluric acid. Through robust multivariate receiver operating characteristic analysis utilizing machine learning models, either linear support vector machines or random forest models, we successfully distinguished between cancerous and benign cases with promising outcomes. These results emphasize the potential of metabolic biomarkers to complement other criteria in breast cancer screening. Future studies are essential to further validate the metabolic biomarkers identified in our study and to develop assays for clinical applications.
Integrated study of hydrochemistry, quality and risk to human health of groundwater in the upper reaches of the Wulong River Basin
Authors: Liu Chunwei , Hu Caiping , Wu Xiancang , Li Changsuo , Wu Xuan , Li Chuanlei , Sun Bin , Qi Huan , Xu Qingyu
Published: October 2024

Groundwater, a vital source of water supply, is currently experiencing a pollution crisis that poses a significant risk to human health. To understand the hydrochemical formation mechanisms, quality and risk to human health of groundwater in the upper reaches of the Wulong River basin, 63 sets of groundwater samples were collected and analyzed. A combination of mathematical statistics, correlation analysis, Gibbs diagram, ion ratio, and cation exchange were comprehensively employed for hydrochemical analysis, and further water quality index (WQI) and human health risk assessment were conducted. The results indicate that groundwater is generally neutral to weakly alkaline. The dominant cations in the groundwater are Ca2+ and Mg2+, while the main anions are HCO3− and SO42−. The hydrochemical types of groundwater mainly include HCO3·SO4-Ca, HCO3-Ca and HCO3-Na. The diverse hydrochemical types are mainly due to the fractured and discontinuous nature of the aquifers. The hydrochemical characteristics are influenced by the dissolution of silicate and carbonate minerals, cation exchange processes, and anthropogenic pollution. The presence of NO3− in groundwater is primarily attributed to agricultural activities. The groundwater is mainly categorized as "Good" (36.6%) and "Poor" (60.8%). "Very poor" and "Excellent" categories are rare, accounting for only 1.2% and 1.4%, respectively, and no samples are classified as "Non-drinkable". The Ewi for NO3− is the highest, indicating severe contamination by anthropogenic NO3− pollution. Human health risk assessment reveals that water samples posing exposure risks account for 82.54% for children and 79.37% for adults. This study highlighted that anthropogenic nitrate pollution has deteriorated groundwater quality, posing risks to human health. It also suggests an urgent need to enhance research and protective measures for groundwater in similar regions, such as the Shandong Peninsula.
Predictive immunoinformatics reveal promising safety and anti-onchocerciasis protective immune response profiles to vaccine candidates (Ov-RAL-2 and Ov-103) in anticipation of phase I clinical trials
Authors: Nebangwa Derrick Neba , Shey Robert Adamu , Shadrack Daniel Madulu , Shintouo Cabirou Mounchili , Yaah Ntang Emmaculate , Yengo Bernis Neneyoh , Efeti Mary Teke , Gwei Ketura Yaje , Fomekong Darling Bih Aubierge , Nchanji Gordon Takop , Lemoge Arnaud Azonpi , Ntie‑Kang Fidele , Ghogomu Stephen Mbigha
Published: October 2024

Onchocerciasis (river blindness) is a debilitating tropical disease that causes significant eye and skin damage, afflicting millions worldwide. As global efforts shift from disease management to elimination, vaccines have become crucial supplementary tools. The Onchocerciasis Vaccine for Africa (TOVA) Initiative was established in 2015, to advance at least one vaccine candidate initially targeting onchocerciasis in infants and children below 5 years of age, through Phase I human trials by 2025. Notably, Ov-RAL-2 and Ov-103 antigens have shown great promise during pre-clinical development, however, the overall success rate of vaccine candidates during clinical development remains relatively low due to certain adverse effects and immunogenic limitations. This study, thus, aimed at predicting the safety and immunogenicity of Ov-RAL-2 and Ov-103 potential onchocerciasis vaccine candidates prior to clinical trials. Advanced molecular simulation models and analytical immunoinformatics algorithms were applied to predict potential adverse side effects and efficacy of these antigens in humans. The analyses revealed that both Ov-RAL-2 and Ov-103 demonstrate favourable safety profiles as toxicogenic and allergenic epitopes were found to be absent within each antigen. Also, both antigens were predicted to harbour substantial numbers of a wide range of distinct epitopes (antibodies, cytokines, and T- Cell epitopes) associated with protective immunity against onchocerciasis. In agreement, virtual vaccination simulation forecasted heightened, but sustained levels of primary and secondary protective immune responses to both vaccine candidates over time. Ov-103 was predicted to be non-camouflageable, as it lacked epitopes identical to protein sequences in the human proteome. Indeed, both antigens were able to bind with high affinity and activate the innate immune TLR4 receptor, implying efficient immune recognition. These findings suggest that Ov-RAL-2 and Ov-103 can induce sufficient protective responses through diverse humoral and cellular mechanisms. Overall, our study provides additional layer of evidence for advancing the clinical development of both vaccine candidates against onchocerciasis.
Precomputed low-frequency lighting in cinematic volume rendering
Authors: Yuan Yuliang , Yang Jinzhu , Sun Qi , Huang Yan
Published: October 2024

Cinematic Rendering (CR) employs physical models such as ray tracing and global illumination to simulate real-world light phenomena, producing high-quality images with rich details. In the medical field, CR can significantly aid doctors in accurate diagnosis and preoperative planning. However, doctors require efficient real-time rendering when using CR, which presents a challenge due to the substantial computing resources demanded by CR’s ray tracing and global illumination models. Precomputed lighting can enhance the efficiency of real-time rendering by freezing certain scene variables. Typically, precomputed methods freeze geometry and materials. However, since the physical rendering of medical images relies on volume data rendering of transfer functions, the CR algorithm cannot utilize precomputed methods directly. To improve the rendering efficiency of the CR algorithm, we propose a precomputed low-frequency lighting method. By simulating the lighting pattern of shadowless surgical lamps, we adopt a spherical distribution of multiple light sources, with each source capable of illuminating the entire volume of data. Under the influence of these large-area multi-light sources, the precomputed lighting adheres to physical principles, resulting in shadow-free and uniformly distributed illumination. We integrated this precomputed method into the ray-casting algorithm, creating an accelerated CR algorithm that achieves more than twice the rendering efficiency of traditional CR rendering.
¿Qué connotan los (cada vez menos raros) cambios de nombre de las empresas privadas o de los partidos políticos?
Authors: Martuccelli Danilo
Published: October 2024

Cuando se piensa en el cambio de nombre casi espontáneamente se piensa en las personas naturales. El presente artículo busca llamar la atención sobre los cambios de nombre, bastante más frecuentes de lo que a primera vista se supone, a nivel de las entidades colectivas, concretamente en grandes empresas privadas y partidos o coaliciones políticas. ¿Cómo es posible entenderlos desde un diagnóstico de época? ¿Qué inflexiones indican con respecto al valor de las marcas o las ideologías y el apego hacia ellas? ¿Qué posibles transformaciones señalan a nivel de las identidades?
En el nombre de la tierra. Un acercamiento telúrico al urbanismo
Authors: Iruretagoiena Ula
Published: October 2024

La disciplina urbanística tiene como fin el planeamiento territorial de un ámbito administrativo, recogiendo los cambios necesarios para alcanzar un horizonte de futuro compartido por la comunidad. Las transformaciones para el mañana se grafían en un plano, se piensan sobre el suelo y se les asigna un nombre-categoría. El nombramiento es una afiliación a un régimen de actuación que posibilitará un cambio que construye una fisonomía del suelo útil para la vida humana. Suelo, que no tierra. Pensar en tierra en vez de suelo es un cambio que suscita un reconocimiento del suelo como hábitat de múltiples formas de vida a las que necesariamente debemos atender en nuestras intervenciones constructivas. La introducción de lo telúrico en la base de pensamiento de la disciplina de la construcción urbana es un giro que se especula, posibilitaría un cambio hacia un urbanismo ecológico y la puerta para otros relatos de las transformaciones urbano-humanas.