bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity of medicinal plants used for skincare by Bulungan tribe in North Kalimantan, Indonesia and its melanin biosynthesis inhibition
Authors: KARTINA KARTINA , BATUBARA IRMANIDA , KUSPRADINI HARLINDA , KUSUMA IRAWAN WIJAYA , WAHYUNI WULAN TRI , EGRA SAAT , MITSUNAGA TOHRU
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Kartina, Batubara I, Kuspradini H, Kusuma IW, Wahyuni WT, Egra S, Matsunaga T. 2022. Diversity of medicinal plants used for skincare by Bulungan tribe in North Kalimantan, Indonesia and its melanin biosynthesis inhibition. Biodiversitas 23: 1246-1253. Indigenous people of the Bulungan tribe in North Kalimantan, Indonesia have been utilizing plants for health purposes, including for skincare such as preventing skin from being dark due to melanin production. This study aimed to evaluate the diversity of medicinal plants utilized by the Bulungan tribe for skincare and determine the melanin biosynthesis inhibition activity. Plants having medicinal uses were investigated through literature studies and interviews with the members of Bulungan tribe in Tanjung Palas Tengah Village. Melanin biosynthesis inhibition was determined by identifying the tyrosinase inhibition potential using commercial tyrosinase enzyme, while intracellular and extracellular melanin biosynthesis production activity was determined using B16 melanoma cells. The results showed at least 19 plant species that have medicinal uses, including for skincare, with some of them having the potential for melanogenesis, both in suppressing and producing melanin. We found a plant sample with melanin suppression potential on B16 melanoma cell, namely Jatropha curcas, at 6.2 µg/ml concentration, which could decrease extracellular melanin content by 18%. Tyrosinase activity with L-tyrosine showed that Cinnamomum burmannii (root) (IC50: 3.4 ?g/mL) showed an insignificant difference with kojic acid, which served as positive control by showing an inhibitory level of (IC50: 0.14 ?g/mL). Based on the data obtained, a pharmacological study is recommended to investigate melanin biosynthesis as a skin whitening agent. We believe that this study can become basic data to discover several active compounds in future studies.
Short Communication: Preharvest drought stress varies grain physical characteristics, milling percentage, and nutritional quality of two Job’s tears varieties
Authors: WICAKSONO FIKY YULIANTO , SUGANDA TRI WAHYU , RUMINTA RUMINTA , SINNIAH UMA RANI , YUWARIAH YUYUN , NURMALA TATI
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Wicaksono FY, Suganda TW, Wuminta, Sinniah UR, Yuwariah Y, Nurmala T. 2022. Short Communication: Preharvest drought stress varies grain physical characteristics, milling percentage, and nutritional quality of two Job’s tears varieties. Biodiversitas 23: 1443-1448. Preharvest drought stress is one of the limiting factors that may affect the quality of the harvested yield. This study aimed to evaluate the grain physical characteristics, milling percentage, and nutritional quality of two varieties of Job’s tears (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) in response to preharvest drought stress. Two varieties of Job’s tears were used in the present study, namely ma-yuen (cultivar Watani Wado)and stenocarpa (cultivar Watani Kiara Payung) at Ciparanje research station (6.9164° S, 107.7717° E) from July 2018 (dry season) to January 2019 (rainy season). A water-sufficient condition was achieved by irrigating the plant once a day, while a water-deficient condition was formed by the irrigation every 3 days using a sprinkler system.
The results showed that preharvest drought stress caused a significant reduction of seed size in both varieties. However, the stenocarpa was the only one with a significant reduction in milling yield due to its long seed length. In terms of nutritional quality, ma-yuen showed no significant response to preharvest drought, while stenocarpa showeda significant gain in protein and calcium. This finding opened the high potential of stenocarpa variety to be used both as an ornament, just like recent usage, and also functional food.
Molecular phylogeny of grouper of Epinephelus genus in Jayapura, Papua, Indonesia inferred from Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) gene
Authors: DWIFAJRI SUKMA , TAPILATU RICARDO F. , PRANATA BAYU , KUSUMA ARADEA BUJANA
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Dwifajri S, Tapilatu RF, Pranata B, Kusuma AB. 2022. Molecular phylogeny of grouper of
Epinephelusgenus in Jayapura, Papua, Indonesiainferred from Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) gene. Biodiversitas 23: 1449-1456. Grouper (Serranidae: Epinephelinae: Epinephelus) fish have high economic value, and are relatively overfis hed, yet have not received serious attention to determine conservation status by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). DNA barcoding is an important molecular approach to identify Papua's grouper species. The objective of the present study was to analyze species diversity and molecular phylogeny of Epinephelus grouper based on DNA sequences of mitochondrial control region COI gene. Samples of grouper fish were collected from Hamadi, Sentani, and Youtefa local fish markets in Jayapura, Papua during August 2020. Grouper was morphologically identified, photographed and its fin was clipped and preserved for molecular analysis. Present study used primers, i.e., Fish R1 5'TAGACTTCTGGCCAAGAATCA3' and Fish F1 5'TCAACCAACCACAAAGACATTGGCA3'. Based on gene bank comparison at the sequence length 689 base pairs, the present study obtained seven species of grouper (Serranidae: Epinephelinae), namely Epinephelus areolatus, Epinephelus coioides, Epinephelus episictus, Epinephelus kupangensis, Epinephelus macrospilos, Epinephelus melanostigma and Epinephelus merra. The phylogenetic tree was composed of seven clades, where each grouper species represented each clade. The genetic distance between Epinephelus kupangensis and Epinephelus melanostigma was determined as the closest genetic distance (0.123) in the present study, while the farthest one was found between Epinephelus episictus and Epinephelus merra (0.161).
Molecular and morpho-physiological identification of yellow leaf curl disease of cucumber in Salatiga, Indonesia
Authors: KURNIA THERESA D. , PURWANTORO AZIZ , SULANDARI SRI , BASUNANDA PANJISAKTI , SETIAWAN AGUS B. , FATMAWATI YENI , ANDIKA IGNATIUS P.
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Kurnia TD, Purwantoro A, Sulandari S, Basunanda P, Setiawan AB, Fatmawati Y, Andika IP. 2022. Molecular and morpho-physiological identification of yellow leaf curl disease of cucumber in Salatiga, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 1466-1474. Plant viruses are a limiting factor in Indonesian cucumber production. However, because numerous viruses generate identical symptoms on infected plants across cucumber cultivars, identify the virus discovered in the field. The management of virus diseases on plants is dependent on accurately identifying symptoms associated with certain viruses among cucumber cultivars and evaluating possible insect vectors. Because there have been several reports of infected viruses on cucumbers, generating resistant cultivars, identifying phenotypic and physiological disorders, and probable insect vectors are all important aspects of plant disease management. This study aimed to determine the virus and putative insect vectors of yellow leaf curl disease and its symptoms, including morphology and physiology disorders in cucumber cultivars. Common symptoms found included curling, yellow spots, malformed shapes, mortality from severely infested leaves, yellowing, and malformed cucumbers, with occurrences varying among cucumber cultivars. Curling and yellow spots were found on >70% samples of all tested cultivars. Virus infection affected agronomic features and fruit characteristics differently depending on cucumber cultivars. Molecular detection confirmed that polerovirus infected plants and insects tested also carried the Polerovirus. This study provides initial information on monitoring various infection stages of yellow curling disease and potential insect vectors of this disease that will later be useful to synthesize effective management practice in the future.
Aquatic plants as niche for lay eggs and raising juveniles by freshwater fish in three swamp habitats in South Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Dharmono Dharmono , Mahruddin Mahruddin , Irianti Riya , Fajeriadi Hery
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Dharmono, Mahrudin, Irianti R, Fajeriadi H. 2022. Aquatic plants as niche for lay eggs and raising juveniles by freshwater fish in three swamp habitats in South Kalimantan, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 1520-1526. Swamp is an area that is almost always waterlogged throughout the year, making it a very unique ecosystem. There is a wide variety of ecosystem services provided by swamp ecosystems, one of those is a habitat of freshwater fish, which is related to the presence of swamp vegetation. This study aimed to investigate swamp plants used as niches for freshwater fish to lay eggs and raise its offspring in three swamp areas in three regencies (i.e., Hulu Sungai Utara Regency, Tanah Laut Regency and Barito Kuala Regency) in South Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. Purposive random sampling was conducted in each swamp by observing and documenting the types of plants where fish eggs and offspring were found. We recorded 26 species of aquatic plants used by 17 species of swamp fish to lay eggs and raise offspring/fry. Eichhornia crassipes was the most widely used aquatic plant species with 100% of all freshwater fish species found (17 fish species), followed by Pistia stratiotes by 70.6% (12 fish species) and Cyperus digitatus, Lemna minor, Nelumbo nucifera, Utricularia aurea and Crinum asiaticum with each used by 52.9% (9 fish species). These plant species favored by fish need to be maintained and controlled to support the population of the fish.
Short Communication: Genetic variation of oceanic manta ray (Mobula birostris) based on mtDNA data in the Savu Sea, Indonesia
Authors: MALIK MUHAMMAD DANIE AL , PUTRA MOCHAMAD IQBAL HERWATA , TOPAN EDY , PERTIWI NI PUTU DIAN , ARTININGSIH ENEX YUNI , SARI SILA KARTIKA , LEWIS SARAH , PRABUNING DERTA , SEMBIRING ANDRIANUS
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Malik MDA, Putra MIH, Topan E, Pertiwi NPD, Artiningsih EY, Sari SK, Lewis S, Prabuning D, Sembiring A. 2022. Short Communication: Genetic variation of oceanic manta ray (Mobula birostris) based on mtDNA data in the Savu Sea, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 1700-1706. The Savu Sea, one of Indonesia's top conservation priorities, is home to various marine charismatic species, including the oceanic manta ray (Mobula birostris), whose conservation status is currently endangered and is protected by the Indonesian government. However, due to domestic and global demand for its fishery products, as well as shortcomings in fisheries management, this species is still poached and bycaught in the Savu Sea. Understanding their population structure is important to achieve effective conservation and fisheries management strategies that will have a positive impact on preserving their population in this area. This study aims to reveal the genetic variation of oceanic manta rays in the Savu Sea. Thirty samples from three locations in the Savu Sea were successfully preserved from East Flores (24), West Manggarai (4), and Rote Ndao (2) and then analyzed using ND5 locus from Mithocondiral DNA (mtDNA). The result indicated a close genetic relationship between three locations (East Flores, West Manggarai, and Rote Ndao) based on the phylogenetic tree and Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) result with value of 0.05158 (P-value = 0.62268) indicated as a single population. In conclusion, the findings of this study provide some insight into the possibility of manta ray populations in the Savu Sea having strong connectivity between areas, which is critical information for regulators and managers to integrate conservation and management strategies within the Savu Sea.
Stable isotope analysis to assess the trophic level of arthropod in sugarcane ratoon agroecosystem
Authors: PRABOWO HERI , RAHARDJO BAMBANG TRI , MUDJIONO GATOT , RIZALI AKHMAD
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Prabowo H, Rahardjo BT, Mudjiono G, Rizali A. 2022. Stable isotope analysis to assess the trophic level of arthropod in sugarcane ratoon agroecosystem. Biodiversitas 23: 2871-2881. Arthropods represent one of the main components of soil inhabitants and play an important role in maintaining soil health, as well as providing ecosystem services. The description of the trophic level of the ratoon sugarcane agroecosystem is needed to describe the role of organisms in the ecosystem to maximize the role of detritivores, predators, and parasitoids in the ratoon sugarcane agroecosystem. The stable isotope approach is widely used in various studies to describe trophic levels in an agroecosystem. The stable isotope technique, especially the one that uses stable isotopes of carbon (?13C) and nitrogen (?15N), can measure the trophic position that integrates energy assimilation or mass flow through all the different trophic pathways leading to an organism. Stable isotopes ?13C and ?15N can be used to identify the roles of arthropods in the ratoon sugarcane agroecosystem by identifying the composition of both isotopes. The ratio of arthropod's carbon assimilation (?13C) to sugarcane ranges from-1.4 to-5.45‰. In contrast, the ratio of nitrogen assimilation (?15N) of arthropod to sugarcane ranges from 3.86 to 39.7‰. The values of stable isotope ?13C and ?15N on predator and parasitoids are varied. The stable isotope value of carbon (?13C) for predators varies from-10.14 to-11.62‰. In contrast, the predator's stable isotope value of nitrogen (?15N) varies from 9.17 to 18.1%. The parasitoids' carbon stable isotope value (?13C) varies from 10.5 to 11.05‰. In contrast, parasitoids' nitrogen stable isotope value (?15N) varies from 12.8 to 17.05‰. The value of carbon (?13C) stable isotope assimilation between herbivores and predators varies from 0.006 to 1.38‰. While the value of nitrogen (?15N) stable isotope assimilation varies in the range of 0.33 to 10.3‰. Furthermore, the value of carbon (?13C) stable isotope assimilation between herbivores and parasitoids varies in the range of 5.3 to 9.23‰. While the value of nitrogen (?15N) stable isotope assimilation varies in the range of 3.79 to 10.3‰. Isotope content (?13C) shows the food resources of arthropods in the agroecosystem, while isotope value (?15N) shows the roles of arthropods in the sugarcane ratoon agroecosystem. Carbon stable isotope values of predator and parasitoids are close to zero. While the stable nitrogen isotope (?15N) values on arthropods are averagely above 10‰, values are suspected of having roles as predators or parasitoids. Knowing the trophic level of predators and parasitoids through stable isotopes in agroecosystems can be used to conserve and optimize natural enemies to suppress the development of herbivores.
New distribution record of Varuna litterata from Caraga Region, Philippines: Analysis on morphometry, length/width-weight relationship, and condition factor
Authors: Jumawan Jess H. , Ruales Jeco Jed J , Avila Maria Cristina A
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Jumawan JH, Ruales JJJ, Avila MCA. 2022. New distribution record of Varuna litterata from Caraga Region, Philippines: Analysis on morphometry, length/width-weight relationship, and condition factor. Biodiversitas 23: 2935-2942. The study reported the occurrence of Varuna litterata in its habitat as a new record in Caraga Region, Philippines. The crab samples were collected using a hand-picked method and were of marketable sizes. There were 14 morphometric traits measured with the corresponding weight and sex of each specimen. Majority of the crab samples were medium-sized, with weight ranging from 11-20 grams, a carapace width range of 28-34 cm, and a carapace length range of 27-32 cm. Exploratory analysis of length /width-weight data fits the power regression model depicted into graphs. A strong relationship and highly significant was observed on pooled samples of WT-CW variables (R2: 0.9229: P<0.001) and WT-CL variables (R2: 0.9197); P<0.001). The derived log-transformed for WT-CW relationship was logWT: -2.7994+2.6456 logCW. Results suggest that carapace length and width tend to be smaller relative to the weight, which is an indication of a negative allometric growth pattern. The computed Fulton's condition factor was higher in males than females, as supported by Kruskal Wallis test (P<0.001). The data provides baseline information for comparing similar studies and in understanding the population dynamics of this crab species.
Diversity and antibacterial activity of endophytic fungi isolated from the medicinal plant of Syzygium jambos
Authors: ‘AINI KURRATUL , ELFITA ELFITA , WIDJAJANTI HARY , SETIAWAN ARUM
Published: June 2022

Abstract. ‘Aini K, Elfita, Widjajanti H, Setiawan A. 2022. Diversity and antibacterial activity of endophytic fungi isolated from the medicinal plant of Syzygium jambos. Biodiversitas 23: 2981-2989. Currently, antimicrobial resistance is one of the most important threats to global public health. This is due to the various mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance. Thus, the need for new sources of bioactive compounds outside conventional antibiotics is a top priority. This investigation evaluated the diversity and antibacterial activities of endophytic fungi isolated from the leaves and root bark of jambu mawar (Syzygium jambos (L.) Alston). The endophytic fungi were grown on PDA media, and their antibacterial activities were tested using the Kirby-Bauer method on two Gram-positive and two Gram-negative bacteria. A total of 10 (SJD1-SJD10) and 11 isolates (SJA1-SJA11) of endophytic fungi were identified from the leaves and root bark of S. jambos, respectively. Among them, SJA8 isolate exhibited strong antibacterial activity. Based on morphological characterization and phylogenetic tree analysis, SJA8 was identified as Pleiocarpon livistonae. Isolation and identification of pure compounds from the fungi may reveal potential candidates for new antibiotic substances.
Arthropods community on maize plantation in West Pasaman, West Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: SULIANSYAH IRFAN , SARI SILVIA PERMATA , NELLY NOVRI , HAMID HASMIANDY
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Sari SP, Suliansyah I, Nelly N, Hamid H. 2022. Arthropods community on maize plantation in West Pasaman, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 3062-3072. Arthropods can be found on the surface of the soil and plant canopy. West Pasaman District is one of the centers of corn production in Indonesia. This study aimed to determine the abundance and the diversity of arthropods in Luhak Nan Duo Sub-district and Kinali Sub-district, West Pasaman District, West Sumatra District, Indonesia. The research was conducted using a purposive sampling technique from October to December 2020. The arthropods sampling was done by two techniques: yellow trap and modified vacuum technique. The identification process was conducted at the Insect Bioecology Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia. A total of 5477 arthropods were found in maize plantations in West Pasaman. The arthropods found were classified into two classes, 8 orders, 85 families, and 269 morphospecies. The individual number was dominated by the Insect class, reaching 97.09% (5318), while the Arachnida class was only 2.99% (159). Data were analyzed for the number of species (S), the number of individuals (N), Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H'), and Evenness index of species (J'). Regarding the location, Luhak Nan Duo has a higher number of individuals, Shannon-Wiener diversity index, and Evenness index than Kinali. However, the pattern of arthropod abundance in the two maize cultivation locations in West Pasaman was similar, increasing with the age of the maize plant. However, in general, the diversity values of arthropods in maize cultivation in Luhak Nan Duo and Kinali were more than 3. It means that the West Pasaman is still quite balanced and safe from the risk of damage due to pests because of the highest abundance of arthropods on maize plantations.
Impacts of invasive tree species Bellucia pentamera on plant diversity, microclimate and soil of secondary tropical forest in West Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: SOLFIYENI SOLFIYENI , SYAMSUARDI SYAMSUARDI , CHAIRUL CHAIRUL , MUKHTAR ERIZAL
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Solfiyeni, Syamsuardi, Chairul, Mukhtar E. 2022. Impacts of invasive tree species Bellucia pentamera on plant diversity, microclimate and soil of secondary tropical forest in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 3135-3146. The invasion of alien species in a region can alter species diversity. Bellucia pentamera Naudin is considered an alien invasive plant that has spread from Mexico to tropical America, and it is now invading some areas in Indonesia, including the tropical forest of Sumatra. Yet, the effects of its invasion on vegetation and the abiotic environment are not yet well understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the impacts of B. pentamera on species diversity and structure of vegetation, and microclimate and soil conditions of secondary tropical forests in West Sumatra. Vegetation analysis was conducted in secondary forest Bukit Tengah Pulau, South Solok, with three levels of dominance of B. pentamera namely: site 1 and 2 (60% and 16% dominance of B. pentamera respectively) and site 3 (no individual of B. pentamera). Sampling was conducted using a nested plot to collect data for tree, sapling and understorey vegetation for each site. The results showed the total number of tree species at sites 1, 2, and 3 were 23 species, 46 species, and 74 species respectively. For sapling, 20 species were found at site 1, 31 species at site 2, and 58 species at site 3. For understorey plants, 13, 16 and 36 species were detected at site 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The number of species at tree and sapling levels differed significantly among sites. The basal area also differed significantly among sites but not for sapling level. Site 1 was dominated by B. pentamera with Important Value Index (IVI) 130.8%), followed by Croton argyratus (27.63%), and Ficus variegata (26.47%). At site 2, B. pentamera dominated with IVI of 33.68%, followed by Lepisanthes sp. (20.01%) and Sizygium sp. (14.44%). Site 3 was dominated by Palaquium warsurifolium with IVI of 21.15% followed by Croton argyratus (20.02%) and Macaranga hypoleuca (13.21%). Diversity index (H') for tree-level was moderate at site 1 (H' = 1.78) and high at sites 2 and 3 (H' = 3.48 and 4.05). Similarly, the index for sapling was moderate at site 1 (H'= 2.12) and high at sites 2 and 3 (H'= 3.22 and 3.84). For understorey, the diversity index was low at site 1 (H'= 0.82) and moderate at sites 2 and 3 (H'= 1.8 and 2.86). Sites invaded by B. pentamera had a lower soil water content and higher temperature and light intensity, although they had higher nitrogen and phosphorus contents. Our findings suggest that the invasion of B. pentamera had negative impacts on plant biodiversity and microclimate, yet the impact was not clear cut on the soil.
A checklist of cephalopods from continental shelf of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo
Authors: Wan Morni Wan Zabidii , Hassan Ruhana , ABIT LIRONG YU , LATIF KAMIL
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Morni WZW, Hassan R, Abit LY, Latif K. 2022. A checklist of cephalopods from continental shelf of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Biodiversitas 23: 3203-3208. Cephalopods can be discovered in all the oceans of the world ranging from shallow to deep oceans. It is a naturally inhabited seawater medium and indirectly limits the number of research regarding the species composition of the cephalopods group. Previously, samples of cephalopods were collected from selected stations in Sarawak Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) using an otter trawl net with a stretch mesh size of 38 mm at the cod end. All samples used in this study were the by-catch of trawling activities during National Demersal Fish Resource Survey in Sarawak (16 August until 6 October 2015). Trawling operations were conducted beyond 12 nautical miles from the coast, and the area was divided into three depth strata, I) 20-50 m; II) 50-100 m; and III) 100-200 m. In total, 16 species of cephalopods were found to inhabit Sarawak waters, representing five families and eight genera. The present findings found that there was a higher number of species recorded in-depth strata I (14 species) in comparison to strata II (12 species) and III (11 species). Six species of the cephalopods captured in this study were the first recorded in Malaysian water, namely Amphioctopus marginatus, Amphioctopus rex, Ommastrephes bartramii, Sepia brevimana, Sepia vietnamica and Sepia prashadi. Thus, the information on cephalopod diversity and distribution at different depth strata will be useful for updating the current database on Malaysian marine species diversity.
Molecular characterization of toxic benthic dinoflagellate, Prorocentrum lima in west Indonesian waters using LSU 28S rDNA gene
Authors: WIDIARTI RIANI , ZAMANI NEVIATY PUTRI , BENGEN DIETRIECH GEOFFREY , MADDUPPA HAWIS
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Widiarti R, Zamani NP, Bengen DG, Madduppa H. 2022. Molecular characterization of toxic benthic dinoflagellate, Prorocentrum lima in west Indonesian waters using LSU 28S rDNA gene. Biodiversitas 23: 3257-3263. Prorocentrum lima is one of the toxic benthic dinoflagellates known to cause Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP), which is also associated with ciguatoxin-producing species, Gambierdiscus toxicus that causes Ciguatera Fish Poisoning (CFP). P. lima has a wide range of morphological variability and genetic diversity, but such research has never been reported from Indonesian waters yet. This study aimed to determine the molecular characteristics of P. limain west Indonesian waters, namely Bintan Island, Belitung Island, Seribu Islands, and Karimunjawa Islands. Molecular characterization was conducted by amplification on large subunit (LSU)28S rDNA gene. Extraction was conducted using freeze-thaw which was continued with single cell PCR method. Genetic distance values and phylogenetic analysis were analyzed using MEGA software. Based on molecular analysis, P. lima from this research was divided into two subclades, namely subclade A from Seribu Islands and Belitung Island, and subclade B from Karimunjawa Islands and Bintan Island. P. lima from Bintan Island showed a closer relationship with the reference sequence from the Genbank. Observation of molecular characters of P. lima showed that the genetic diversity of P. lima depended on the variation of the island’s morphogenesis type.These findings could support a further study on the distribution of P. lima in Indonesian waters, related to the genetic variation and toxin production, since Indonesia consists of many small islands.
Beyond Economics
Authors: Feyissa Dereje
Published: June 2022

Migration processes are often explained in economic terms both at the level of aspiration and capability. This is reflected in the claim that people migrate because of an absolute or relative deprivation and that who migrates depends on who can afford to cover the cost of migration. Economic factors certainly play an important role in why people migrate, however the fixation on economic factors has come with a reality cost to the extent that the non-economic factors in migration processes are not given the attention they deserve. This contribution seeks to fill this gap. It examines socio-political factors in migration processes and the various forms of inequality they take through a case study of Hadiya migration to South Africa. Specifically, mobility norms, spirituality of migration and sociopolitical networks are examined to explain why there is a geographic concentration in the place of origin of Ethiopian migrants in South Africa. While Hadiya mobility norms construe their migration to South Africa as part of the natural order of things, an overarching spiritual frame of reference represents migration as an enactment of a divine script: a prophecy fulfilled. Unequal access to political and social networks on the other hand have partly determined who migrates. While political networks are mobilized to leverage migration to redress historically shaped regional inequality, social networks are crucial in building capability and easing the process of adaptation in places of destination which further engender increased migration from places of origin.
The pandemic and the contradictions of contemporaneity
Authors: Santos Boaventura de Sousa
Published: June 2022

In this paper I argue that the new coronavirus pandemic has brought to light some of the contradictions and paradoxes of our time, namely the contrast between human fragility and the technological hubris linked to the fourth industrial revolution (artificial intelligence); and the contrast between the TINA ideology (there is no alternative) and the sudden and extreme changes in our everyday life caused by the virus, thus suggesting that there are indeed alternatives. I then analyse the main metaphors that have been used in public discourse concerning our relations with the virus: the virus as an enemy; the virus as a messenger; the virus as pedagogue. I prefer the last one and explain why, and in what sense the virus is our contemporary.
Equity in Global North–South research partnerships: interrogating UK funding models
Authors: Flint Adrian , Howard Guy , Baidya Manish , Wondim Tadesse , Poudel Moti , Nijhawan Anisha , Mulugeta Yohannes , Sharma Subodh
Published: June 2022

This article considers the degree to which achieving equity in Global North–South research partnerships is possible under current UK funding models. While there has been significant discussion with respect to the decolonisation of research, it will be argued that there is some distance between the language of equity articulated currently by UK funding bodies, and the realities of working as a project partner in the Global South. The article draws on the prior and ongoing experiences of a multidisciplinary team of researchers brought together by a UK-funded research project. In the interests of moving towards more equitable systems of knowledge production and dissemination, it explores the power asymmetries that can be inherent in Global North–South research partnerships, and the extent to which issues of coloniality continue to shape aspects of research agenda setting, project framing, impact, academic publishing and the division of labour within partnerships.
High sorbic acid resistance of Penicillium roqueforti is mediated by the SORBUS gene cluster
Authors: Punt Maarten , Seekles Sjoerd J. , van Dam Jisca L. , de Adelhart Toorop Connor , Martina Raithel R. , Houbraken Jos , Ram Arthur F. J. , Wösten Han A. B. , Ohm Robin A.
Published: June 2022

Penicillium roquefortiis a major food-spoilage fungus known for its high resistance to the food preservative sorbic acid. Here, we demonstrate that the minimum inhibitory concentration of undissociated sorbic acid (MICu) ranges between 4.2 and 21.2 mM when 34P.roquefortistrains were grown on malt extract broth. A genome-wide association study revealed that the six most resistant strains contained the 180 kbp gene cluster SORBUS, which was absent in the other 28 strains. In addition, a SNP analysis revealed five genes outside the SORBUS cluster that may be linked to sorbic acid resistance. A partial SORBUS knock-out (>100 of 180 kbp) in a resistant strain reduced sorbic acid resistance to similar levels as observed in the sensitive strains. Whole genome transcriptome analysis revealed a small set of genes present in both resistant and sensitiveP.roquefortistrains that were differentially expressed in the presence of the weak acid. These genes could explain whyP.roquefortiis more resistant to sorbic acid when compared to other fungi, even in the absence of the SORBUS cluster. Together, the MICuof 21.2 mM makesP.roquefortiamong the most sorbic acid-resistant fungi, if not the most resistant fungus, which is mediated by the SORBUS gene cluster.
Prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among 1–9 years of age children from model and non-model kebeles in Dangila district, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Genet Almaw , Dagnew Zewdu , Melkie Gashaw , Keleb Awoke , Motbainor Achenef , Mebrat Amare , Leshargie Cheru Tesema
Published: June 2022

Background

Trachoma is the leading infectious disease that leads to blindness worldwide, especially in developing countries. Though Ethiopia had targeted a trachoma elimination program by 2020, the problem worsens, particularly in the Amhara Region. Even though sustained intervention measures are undertaken across the region, it is unclear why trachoma is still a significant public health problem. So, this study assessed the prevalence of active trachoma and associated factors among 1–9 years of age children from model and non-model kebeles in Dangila district Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from 20th September 2019 to 29th October 2019. A multistage stratified random sampling technique was used to reach 704 children from model and non-model kebeles. Samples were allocated proportionally to model and non-model kebeles. A structured and pretested data collection tool and observational checklist was used to manage the necessary data. Data were coded and entered in Epidata version 4.6, and further analysis was done using SPSS version 20 software. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with active trachoma. Adjusted Odds Ratios (AOR), p-value, and respected Confidence Interval (CI) were used to report the findings.

Results

Seven hundred four children were included in this study, with a response rate of 97.8%. The overall prevalence of active trachoma was 6% (95% CI: 4.5, 8.1). The prevalence of active trachoma among non-model and model Kebele was not significantly different. Still, the prevalence of active trachoma among children from model Kebele were [4.5%, (95% CI: 2.4%, 7.1%)] relatively lower compared with non-model kebeles, [7.6%, 95% CI: (4.9%, 10.9%)]. Moreover, not using latrine (AOR = 4.29, 95% CI: 1.96, 9.34), fly-eye contact (AOR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.11, 6.03), presence of sleep in eyes (AOR = 2.46, 95% CI: 1.10, 5.47), presence of ocular discharge (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.30, 6.00), presence of nasal discharges (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI: 1.21, 5.90) and washing faces with soap (AOR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.69) were found significantly associated with the prevalence of active trachoma among children 1–9 years old.

Conclusions

The prevalence of active trachoma in the model and non-model kebeles was high and did not show a statistical difference. Attention to be given to latrine utilization, washing face with soap, and other personal hygiene activities.
Novel coexisting mangrove-coral habitats: Extensive coral communities located deep within mangrove canopies of Panama, a global classification system and predicted distributions
Authors: Stewart Heather A. , Wright Jennifer L. , Carrigan Matthew , Altieri Andrew H. , Kline David I. , Araújo Rafael J.
Published: June 2022

Marine ecosystems are structured by coexisting species occurring in adjacent or nested assemblages. Mangroves and corals are typically observed in adjacent assemblages (i.e., mangrove forests and coral reefs) but are increasingly reported in nested mangrove-coral assemblages with corals living within mangrove habitats. Here we define these nested assemblages as “coexisting mangrove-coral” (CMC) habitats and review the scientific literature to date to formalize a baseline understanding of these ecosystems and create a foundation for future studies. We identify 130 species of corals living within mangrove habitats across 12 locations spanning the Caribbean Sea, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and South Pacific. We then provide the first description, to our knowledge, of a canopy CMC habitat type located in Bocas del Toro, Panama. This canopy CMC habitat is one of the most coral rich CMC habitats reported in the world, with 34 species of corals growing on and/or among submerged red mangrove aerial roots. Based on our literature review and field data, we identify biotic and abiotic characteristics common to CMC systems to create a classification framework of CMC habitat categories: (1) Lagoon, (2) Inlet, (3) Edge, and (4) Canopy. We then use the compiled data to create a GIS model to suggest where additional CMC habitats may occur globally. In a time where many ecosystems are at risk of disappearing, discovery and description of alternative habitats for species of critical concern are of utmost importance for their conservation and management.
Adherence barriers and interventions to improve ART adherence in Sub-Saharan African countries: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Buh Amos , Deonandan Raywat , Gomes James , Krentel Alison , Oladimeji Olanrewaju , Yaya Sanni
Published: June 2022

Background

The HIV/AIDS pandemic continues to be a major public health concern, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite efforts to reduce new infections and deaths with the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), SSA countries continue to bear the heaviest burden of HIV/AIDS globally, accounting for two-thirds of global new infections. The goal of this review is to identify common barriers to ART adherence as well as common effective interventions that can be implemented across SSA countries to improve ART adherence.

Methods

A systematic review of published studies on adult HIV-positive patients aged 15 or above, that have assessed the barriers to ART adherence and interventions improving patients’ adherence to ART in SSA countries shall be conducted. We will conduct electronic searches for articles that have been published starting from January 2010 onwards. The databases that shall be searched will include Medline Ovid, CINAHL, Embase, and Scopus. The review will include experimental and quasi-experimental studies such as randomized and non-randomized controlled trials as well as comparative before and after studies, and observational studies—cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, prospective and retrospective studies. Two independent reviewers will screen all identified studies, extract data and appraise the methodological quality of the studies using standard critical appraisal tools from the Joanna Briggs Institute. The extracted data will be subjected to a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis.

Discussion

This review will synthesize existing evidence on ART adherence barriers and strategies for improving patient adherence to ART in SSA countries. It will identify common barriers to adherence and common interventions proven to improve adherence across SSA. We anticipate that the findings of this review will provide information policy makers and stakeholders involved in the fight against HIV, will find useful in deriving better ways of not only retaining patients on treatment but having them adhere to their treatment.

Review registration

This protocol has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO); registration number CRD42021262256.
Hemodynamic differences between women and men with elevated blood pressure in China: A non-invasive assessment of 45,082 adults using impedance cardiography
Authors: Caraballo César , Mahajan Shiwani , Gu Jianlei , Lu Yuan , Spatz Erica S. , Dreyer Rachel P. , Zhang MaoZhen , Sun NingLing , Ren Yihong , Zheng Xin , Zhao Hongyu , Lu Hui , Ma Zheng J. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: June 2022

Background

Whether there are sex differences in hemodynamic profiles among people with elevated blood pressure is not well understood and could guide personalization of treatment.

Methods and results

We described the clinical and hemodynamic characteristics of adults with elevated blood pressure in China using impedance cardiography. We included 45,082 individuals with elevated blood pressure (defined as systolic blood pressure of ≥130 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure of ≥80 mmHg), of which 35.2% were women. Overall, women had a higher mean systolic blood pressure than men (139.0 [±15.7] mmHg vs 136.8 [±13.8] mmHg, P<0.001), but a lower mean diastolic blood pressure (82.6 [±9.0] mmHg vs 85.6 [±8.9] mmHg, P<0.001). After adjusting for age, region, and body mass index, women <50 years old had lower systemic vascular resistance index (beta-coefficient [β] -31.7; 95% CI: -51.2, -12.2) and higher cardiac index (β 0.07; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.09) than men of their same age group, whereas among those ≥50 years old women had higher systemic vascular resistance index (β 120.4; 95% CI: 102.4, 138.5) but lower cardiac index (β -0.15; 95% CI: -0.16, -0.13). Results were consistent with a propensity score matching sensitivity analysis, although the magnitude of the SVRI difference was lower and non-significant. However, there was substantial overlap between women and men in the distribution plots of these variables, with overlapping areas ranging from 78% to 88%.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that there are sex differences in hypertension phenotype, but that sex alone is insufficient to infer an individual’s profile.
Transition of Therapeutic to Toxicological Effects of Certain Plant
Alkaloids: A Critical Review Based on their Forensic Perspective
Authors: Kirubakarababu Merlin , Nesaraj Arputharaj Samson
Published: June 2022

The secondary metabolites have a significant property of therapy as well as toxicity. One among the
secondary metabolite that is enormously present in plants is alkaloids. The occurrence of the alkaloid
is found to be about 20% in the plants. These compounds have a useful therapeutic application in
health disorders. On the other hand, they also cause toxicity to humans as well as animals. Their
toxicity levels in humans may tend to affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. In this review,
occurrence, synthesis and the toxicity levels of non-heterocyclic alkaloids viz. N-methyl tyramine and
colchicine as well as heterocyclic alkaloids, viz. derivatives of pyrrolizidine (seneciphylline, echimidine),
purine (caffeine, theobromine), indole (ergotamine, brucine) and glycoalkaloids (solanine, tomatine)
are discussed. The detection of these alkaloids by chromatographic techniques is also underlined.
Density Functional Theory and Antimicrobial Studies on
tris(N-Furfuryl-N-benzyldithiocarbamato-S,S′)antimony(III)
Authors: Tamilvanan Sundaramoorthy
Published: June 2022

In present work, the complex, tris(N-furfuryl-N-benzyldithiocarbamato-S,S′)antimony(III) has been
synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and biological studies.
In the theoretical calculations, the DFT method with the B3LYP hybrid functional using the LAN2DZ
basis set has been selected as a computational technique. The molecular structure and spectral are
explained by Gaussian computational analysis theory (B3LYP) are found to be in correlation with the
experimental data observed from the various spectrophotometric methods. 1H NMR and 13C NMR
were performed by using GIAO (Gauge Independent Atomic Orbital) process with the B3LYP method
and the LAN2DZ basis set and NMR chemical shifts related to TMS were compared. The molecular
orbital calculations such as HOMO-LUMO energy gap, Mulliken population analysis and MEP surfaces
have been calculated. Further, the synthesized antimony dithicarbamate complex has been evaluated
for in vitro antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms using the disc diffusion method.
The results represented that the studied molecule has shown the antimicrobial activity.
Oxidative Degradation of Brilliant Green by Potassium
Iodate in Acidic Medium: A Kinetic and Mechanistic Study
Authors: Bano Shakila , Singh Vineeta , Hashmi Ayesha , Singh Ashutosh , Singh Ajaya Kumar
Published: June 2022

Brilliant green (BG), one of the triphenylmethane dyes, has been extensively applied and produced as
a colorant for different industries like medical, paper/textile printing, food additive, cosmetics, etc.
Dyes effluents discharged by these industries pose hazardous effects on environmental and human
health via releasing toxic and carcinogenic contaminants during its deterioration. The present work
evaluates kinetic and mechanistic aspects of oxidative degradation of brilliant green by iodate in acidic
solution at 303 K. The influence of different factors such as concentration of various reactants (μ), free
radicals, etc. has also been investigated to check feasibility of redox degradation for efficient, easy,
low-cost and eco-friendly removal of brilliant green from aquatic medium. The experimental result
shows a first-order rate dependence on [BG] and zero-order kinetics with respect to [KIO3]. The
reaction showed positive fractional order dependence on the rate for [H+]. Variations in ionic strength
of the medium and [Cl–] did not bring about any noticeable change on the rate of reaction. It was found
that the reaction rate declined with the decrease in the dielectric constant (D) of the medium in the
oxidation of brilliant green. Additionally, the process was carried out at different temperatures to
estimate the activation parameters and also to find rate controlling stages of the process. Finally, an
appropriate mechanism, a plausible with the experimental observations, also supported by UV-Vis
spectra has been proposed.
Alginate Hydrogel Adsorbents in Adsorption of Inorganic and Organic Pollutants: A Review
Authors: Suresh Selvaraj , Ravichandran S. , Pandya Ishan Y. , Sreeja Mole S.S. , Boselin Prabhu S.R. , Prashanth G.K.
Published: June 2022

The present review discusses various alginate hydrogel adsorbents with unique adsorption performance
in environmental remediation. Novel alginate composites were developed with, high swelling capacity
and capable of adsorbing toxic inorganic and organic pollutants. Alginate hydrogel adsorbents were
developed with a single network and double network structure with excellent adsorption ability in
removal of toxic inorganic and/or organic pollutants. Alginate with single or double network composite
hydrogels were developed when alginate was combined with graphene/chitosan/polymer to get superior
adsorbents in removal of toxic pollutants. Acrylic acid/alginate hydrogel in recent studies are efficient
in the elimination of inorganic and organic contaminants. This review will generate interest to researchers
to develop novel alginate composite hydrogels with unique properties in the adsorption of toxic
inorganic, organic contaminants. This work provides a worthy challenge and the future possibility of
designing novel alginate materials for various applications.
Partially Dehydrated Castor Oil-Based Isoalkyl and Polyol
Esters as Potential Base Stocks for Industrial Applications
Authors: Azmeera Thirupathi , Punyamurthy Rajini , Karuna M.S.L. , Vidavalur Siddaiah , Madhu Devarapaga
Published: June 2022

Partially dehydrated castor oil (PDCO) which is of less use in the paint and furniture coating formulations
has been modified to develop biolubricant base stocks. PDCO (44.1%, non-conjugated linoleic acid;
32%, conjugated linoleic acid (18:2) isomers and 15.3% ricinoleic acid) obtained from a local industry
was hydrolyzed under alkaline conditions. The fatty acids obtained (PDCFAs) in 98% yields were
reacted with polyols namely 2-ethyl hexanol, neopentyl glycol, trimethylol propyl, pentaerythritol to
obtain respective isoalkyl erters and esters of polyol with >95% yield. The base stocks exhibited very
high viscosity indices (187.288 to 187.687), excellent pour point (-25 to -40 ºC) and high flash points
(212 to 317 ºC) required for a variety of industrial applications namely metal working, hydraulic,
forging, cutting fluid, gear oil applications. The tribological properties of PDCO, exhibited very low
WSD (0.72-0.79 mm) and WSVs (0.82-0.83 mm3) with high load carrying capacities (180-220 kg)
indicating low friction and less energy losses between the sliding surfaces. This was also accompanied
by very high thermo-oxidation stabilities [Oxidation stability (230-242 ºC); Onset temperature (300-381
ºC)] of the base stacks due to branching. Overall all the PDCO isoalkyl and polyol esters exhibited
excellent properties suitable for a wide range of industrial applications on par with mineral oil based
lubricants.