bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Durian (Durio zibenthinus) waste: a promising resource for food and diverse applications—a comprehensive review
Authors: Gamay Rhea Abegail J. , Botecario Patricia May N. , Sanchez Philip Donald C. , Alvarado Marjun C.
Published: February 2024

This review article focuses on exploring the benefits, potentialities, and values of durian waste for food and other applications. In the domain of food applications, durian waste exhibits immense promise as a source of valuable compounds, including pectin, phenolic antioxidants, husk, and seed flour. Moreover, it serves as a viable material for the development of edible and bio-composite films, contributing to sustainable food packaging solutions. Beyond its relevance in the food industry, durian waste holds significance in non-food applications, particularly in the extraction and utilization of unique biomaterials, such as nanocellulose particles. These nanocellulose-based materials have garnered attention for their diverse applications including in the food industry. The various utilization methods and techniques were also discussed. The waste of durian contains nutritional values that provide great potential for valorization. In this review, it has been proved that durian waste should not be thrown away because it possesses great potential in terms of value-added products.
Can placental shear wave elastography predict preeclampsia in high-risk pregnant women during second trimester? Insights from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Singh Vikas , Kapoor Rajiv , Modi Monisha , Singhal Sangeeta , Jain Lovely
Published: February 2024

Background

Preeclampsia, a condition very frequently linked to maternal and fetal deaths worldwide, remains a pressing concern due to delays in recognition and response. Effective screening tests for early detection of high-risk cases and appropriate preventive measures are currently lacking. Well planned prenatal care, timely detection, monitoring, and appropriate management are vital to prevent preeclampsia-related fatalities.

Methods

This prospective study evaluated the use of shear wave elastography (SWE) in identifying placental structural issues caused by preeclampsia in high-risk pregnancies. A total of 143 high-risk pregnant women with singleton pregnancies and an anterior placental position were included in the study.

Results

Women with preeclampsia exhibited significantly elevated SWE values in both center (27.98 ± 16.12 vs. 4.57 ± 6.57 kPa) and peripheral areas of the placenta (29.14 ± 16.12 vs. 4.80 ± 7.70 kPa) when compared to non-preeclampsia women (p = 0.000). Cutoff values of 8.70 kPa and 8.15 kPa at the Center and edge of the placenta respectively, accurately predicted preeclampsia in second-trimester pregnancies, with 84.62% sensitivity and 94% specificity. However no significant difference was observed between elastography values obtained from the center and edge of the placenta.

Conclusions

In conclusion, shear wave elastography can help diagnose preeclampsia early by assessing placental stiffness.
Preliminary insights into high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation for symptomatic uterine fibroids: a first look in Egypt
Authors: Fawzi Mohamed , ElMandouh Safaa , Elbanna Alaa Eid , Narouz Micheal Ezzat , Habib Menna , Mahmoud Shrouk Shady , Badr Ahmed Said
Published: February 2024

Background

Uterine fibroids are common gynecological conditions that affect a significant number of women of reproductive age and may necessitate surgical intervention for their removal. However, there is a rising trend toward minimally invasive procedures, such as magnetic resonance-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (MRgHIFU) ablation. This report provides the first experience in Egypt and North Africa on the use of MRgHIFU ablation as a therapeutic option for uterine fibroids.

Results

This study demonstrates a correlation between post-operative NPV% and symptom improvement. Following a three-month follow-up period, a significant reduction in pain scores and excessive bleeding was observed. Importantly, there was no significant elevation in hemoglobin levels (11.23 ± 2.23 to 11.25 ± 1.71 g/dL) after treatment. Furthermore, the mean non-perfused volume ratio in the treated fibroids was 46 ± 27.3% (SD) among the 20 participants. These findings suggest a favorable therapeutic outcome of MRgHIFU, with no serious adverse effects reported.

Conclusion

MRgHIFU is a noninvasive therapeutic approach for the treatment of uterine myomas, offering significant benefits in terms of pain reduction and improved quality of life. This particular study represents the pioneering clinical experience of this innovative therapy in Egypt.
Cardiac functions and pericardial thickness changes in familial Mediterranean fever patients
Authors: Yiğit Yasemin Demir , Karatoprak Özlem Karakuş , Ay Elif Güzelsoy , Karabulut Muhammed , Yılmaz Erdal , Gürgöze Metin Kaya
Published: February 2024

Background

The goal of the study is to ascertain how the pericardium and heart functions alter in patients with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) both during the acute phase and the period of subclinical inflammation.

Methods

During the study, 99 patients diagnosed with FMF (35 of whom were in an FMF attack period) were recruited to this study, and 24 completely healthy children in the same age group—who did not have FMF and had not any cardiac condition that applied to visit the pediatric cardiology outpatient clinic for routine follow-up—were included as the control group.

Results

In patients with FMF, there was no discernible relationship between genetic abnormalities and pericardial thickness (p > 0.05). A significant difference was not observed in the diastolic and systolic cardiac function values between the control group and the FMF patients, with the exception of the parameters related to ejection time (ET), contraction time (IVCT), and relaxation time (IVRT). It was observed that pericardial thickness was greater in FMF patients than in study participants who did not have FMF, and this difference is statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

It was determined that the effects of cardiac inflammation continued in children with FMF, even if they were asymptomatic. Therefore, it should be part of the follow-ups.

Key points

• In our study, cardiac functions and pericardial thickening of 99 FMF patients with and without attack were prospectively investigated.

• In ongoing follow-up of patients with FMF, we found that inflammation, which affects all serosas, also affects the pericardium during the attract and nonattack phase.

• We believe that cardiac functions, including the status of the pericardium, should be monitored as part of the long-term follow-up of FMF.
Gas-bearing prediction in tight sandstone reservoirs based on multinetwork integration
Authors: Xiang Tao , Cao Junxing , Zhao Lingsen , Li Hong , Ren Yuanhao , Jian Pengfei
Published: February 2024

Tight sandstone reservoir gas is an important component of unconventional natural gas exploration and production in China. However, tight sandstone reservoirs have the characteristics of poor lateral continuity, strong vertical heterogeneity, complex lithology, and large changes in physical properties, which means traditional oil and gas evaluation sometimes suffers from low accuracy. Therefore, a method for predicting the gas content of tight sandstone reservoirs is developed. This method selects seismic attributes through Pearson coefficients, combines multiple attribute information, and inputs it into a deep neural network. This study constructed MultipleNet by combining a convolutional neural network, a bidirectional gated neural unit network, and a self-attention mechanism. This network takes advantage of the complementary advantages of the preceding network modules and can more effectively mine information on various seismic attributes and improve gas-bearing prediction accuracy. This method is applied to actual data from a tight sandstone gas exploration area in the Sichuan Basin. Experimental results indicate that the results of well-side predictions using this method are consistent with well data, providing a new approach and perspective for predicting gas bearing in tight sandstone reservoirs.
Developing interventions to improve detection of depression in primary healthcare settings in rural Ethiopia
Authors: Demissie Mekdes , Birhane Rahel , Hanlon Charlotte , Eshetu Tigist , Medhin Girmay , Minaye Abebaw , Habtamu Kassahun , Cleare Anthony J. , Milkias Barkot , Prince Martin , Fekadu Abebaw
Published: February 2024

Background

The poor detection of depression in primary healthcare (PHC) in low- and middle-income countries continues to threaten the plan to scale up mental healthcare coverage.

Aims

To describe the process followed to develop an intervention package to improve detection of depression in PHC settings in rural Ethiopia.

Method

The study was conducted in Sodo, a rural district in south Ethiopia. The Medical Research Council's framework for the development of complex interventions was followed. Qualitative interviews, observations of provider–patient communication, intervention development workshops and pre-testing of the screening component of the intervention were conducted to develop the intervention.

Results

A multicomponent intervention package was developed, which included (a) manual-based training of PHC workers for 10 days, adapted from the World Health Organization's Mental Health Gap Action Programme Intervention Guide, with emphasis on depression, locally identified depressive symptoms, communication skills, training by people with lived experience and active learning methods; (b) screening for culturally salient manifestations of depression, using a four-item tool; (c) raising awareness among people attending out-patient clinics about depression, using information leaflets and health education; and (d) system-level interventions, such as supportive supervision, use of posters at health facilities and a decision support mobile app.

Conclusions

This contextualised, multicomponent intervention package may lead to meaningful impact on the detection of depression in PHC in rural Ethiopia and similar settings. The intervention will be pilot tested for feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness before its wider implementation.
Associations among loneliness, internal locus of control and subjective accelerated ageing in older adults who received the booster vaccination
Authors: Greenblatt-Kimron Lee , Palgi Yuval , Regev Tali , Ben-David Boaz M.
Published: February 2024

Background

A rise in loneliness among older adults since the COVID-19 outbreak, even after vaccination, has been highlighted. Loneliness has deleterious consequences, with specific effects on perceptions of the ageing process during the COVID-19 pandemic. Coping with stressful life events and the challenges of ageing may result in a perception of acceleration of this process.

Aim

Studies have shown a buffering effect of an internal locus of control in the relationship between COVID-19 stress and mental distress. The current study examined whether loneliness predicts subjective accelerated ageing and whether internal locus of control moderates this relationship.

Method

Two waves of community-dwelling older adults (M = 70.44, s.d. = 5.95; age range 61–88 years), vaccinated three times, were sampled by a web-survey company. Participants completed the questionnaire after the beginning of the third vaccination campaign and reported again 4 months later on loneliness, internal locus of control and subjective accelerated ageing level in the second wave.

Results

Participants with higher levels of loneliness presented 4 months later with higher subjective accelerated ageing. Participants with a low level of internal locus of control presented 4 months later with high subjective accelerated ageing, regardless of their loneliness level. Participants with a high level of internal locus of control and a low level of loneliness presented with the lowest subjective accelerated ageing 4 months later.

Conclusions

The findings emphasise the deleterious effects of loneliness and low internal locus of control on older adults’ perception of their ageing process. Practitioners should focus their interventions not only on loneliness but also on improving the sense of internal locus of control to improve subjective accelerated ageing.
Rechallenge With High-Dose Methotrexate After Treatment With Glucarpidase in Adult Patients With Lymphoma
Authors: Truong Huong L. , Barreto Jason N. , Mara Kristin C. , Hampel Paul J. , Micallef Ivana N. , Nowakowski Grzegorz S. , Thanarajasingam Gita , Thompson Carrie A. , Wang Yucai , Witzig Thomas E. , Herrmann Sandra M. , Leung Nelson
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Limited evidence exists regarding methotrexate (MTX) resumption after patients with lymphoma receive glucarpidase for toxic MTX levels and acute kidney injury (AKI).

METHODS

This retrospective review included adults with lymphoma treated with glucarpidase after MTX at Mayo Clinic between January 31, 2020, and October 10, 2022. Descriptive statistics summarize patient characteristics and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 11 patients treated with glucarpidase after MTX, seven (64%) were rechallenged with MTX. Indications for MTX rechallenge included confirmed CNS disease (n = 6, 86%) and intravascular lymphoma (n = 1, 14%). Compared with the nonrechallenged subgroup, before receiving MTX that required glucarpidase rescue, the rechallenged patients had lower median pretreatment serum creatinine (Scr; 0.7 v 1.2 mg/dL), and none had AKI with previous MTX doses, n = 0 (0%) versus n = 2 (50%). During the MTX dose requiring glucarpidase rescue, the rechallenged group had lower median peak Scr (1.26 v 3.32 mg/dL) and lower incidence of AKI stage III (n = 1 [14%] v n = 3 [75%]), and none of the rechallenged patients required renal replacement therapy (RRT; n = 0 [0%] v n = 1 [25%]). At the first rechallenge after glucarpidase administration, the median MTX dose reduction was 56% (range, 46%-75%), and the lowest used dose when prescribed according to each treatment protocol schedule was 1.5 g/m2. Two (29%) patients experienced AKI (n = 1 stage I, n = 1 stage II) after MTX rechallenge. Zero patients required RRT, and zero required another glucarpidase administration. Six (86%) patients completed all recommended MTX doses.

CONCLUSION

In selected adults with lymphoma who required glucarpidase for toxic MTX levels after administration of high-dose MTX, resumption of MTX therapy at lower doses is safe. Patients selected for MTX resumption had experienced less severe AKI during the previous cycle compared with those not selected for MTX resumption.
Accelerations of large inertial particles in turbulence
Authors: Fan Yaning , Wang Cheng , Jiang Linfeng , Sun Chao , Calzavarini Enrico
Published: February 2024

Understanding the dynamics of material objects advected by turbulent flows is a long-standing question in fluid dynamics. In this perspective article we focus on the characterization of the statistical properties of non-interacting finite-sized massive spherical particles advected by a vigorous turbulent flow. We study the fluctuations and temporal correlations of particle accelerations and explore their behaviours with respect to the particle size and the particle mass density by means of fully resolved numerical simulations. We observe that the measured trends cannot be interpreted as the simple multiplicative combination of the two dominant effects: the spatial filtering of fluid accelerations and the added-mass–adjusted fluid-to-particle density ratio. We argue that other hydrodynamical forces or effects, e.g., preferential flow sampling, have still a significant role even at the largest particle sizes, which reach here the integral scale of turbulence.
Neural Arch Preservation—Posterior Vertebral Column Resection: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Carelli Luis E. , Girão C. de Barros Alderico , Flores Taracena Silvia M. , Del Pont Francisco , Cechin Igor , Ames Christopher
Published: February 2024

This technique is a modification of the posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) for patients with kyphoscoliosis with vertebral column resection indications (Cobb angle >100° angular and rigid with flexibility <20%-30%). The neural arch (preservation)-PVCR has the biomechanical advantage of maintaining the dural sac and the spinal cord attached within the neural arch and ligamentum flavum (dorsal meningovertebral ligaments are in tension in kyphosis), avoiding spinal cord deviation during the vertebrectomy. Preserving the neural arch did not interfere with corrective maneuvers of the anterior and middle columns and avoided the spinal translation in any anatomic plane. Standard posterior spinal midline approach and insertion of pedicle screws, a temporary rod is placed on contralateral side to maintain the stability of the spine during neural arch (preservation)-PVCR and to prevent translation of the spine. A costotransversectomy for an anterior approach is performed in the apex level and discectomies of the upper and lower levels. The anterior column reconstruction is made with a structural graft or titanium mesh cage with autograft. The correction is made with compression of the segment of the osteotomy, kyphosis correction with “in situ” rod benders, and Cantilever maneuver for final correction. A multiple rod construction is placed to increase stability. This technique has the potential benefits of decreasing operative time and blood loss, protecting the neural elements from fibrous scars and more posterior fusion for decreasing pseudoarthrosis. The patient consented to the procedure. The participants and any identifiable individuals consented to publication of his/her image.
Cross-Education Effects of Hip Strengthening in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Foreman Niara N. , Suttmiller Ashley M.B. , Chung Sunghoon , Gruskiewicz Vanessa M. , Johnson Kelly R. , Reyes Matthew C. , McCann Ryan S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction/Purpose

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is associated with reduced balance, lumbopelvic stability, and hip strength. Accordingly, hip strengthening is an effective intervention for individuals with CAI. Cross-education through unilateral exercise is also beneficial to individuals with CAI, but cross-education effects of hip strengthening remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine cross-education effects of hip strengthening in individuals with CAI.

Methods

Thirty individuals with CAI were randomized into control (CON) and hip strengthening (HIP) groups. Baseline and postintervention tests of the uninvolved limb included lumbopelvic stability (unilateral hip bridge), handheld dynamometry (isometric hip extension, abduction, and external rotation strength), and balance (Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) in anterior, posterolateral (PL), and posteromedial directions). After baseline testing, HIP completed progressive hip strengthening of the involved limb three times per week for 8 wk, and CON did not. Repeated-measures analyses of variance assessed the effects of group and time on each outcome. Each group’s mean changes from baseline to postintervention were assessed via effect sizes. Statistical significance was set a priori at P < 0.05.

Results

Of the 30 participants enrolled, 10 did not complete the postintervention data collection. Multiple imputations estimated missing data, and an intention-to-treat analysis was conducted. There were no significant group-by-time interactions for hip strength, balance, or lumbopelvic stability. HIP exhibited moderate effect sizes for SEBT-PL and hip bridge. All other effect sizes were small or negligible.

Conclusions

We did not identify a clear cross-education effect following unilateral hip strengthening in a cohort with CAI. Examination of baseline to postintervention effect sizes indicate a potential trend toward improved balance and lumbopelvic stability of the HIP group.
A CONVERSAÇÃO ONLINE NO PROCESSO FORMATIVO
Authors: Carvalho Felipe , Pimentel Mariano , Santos Edméa
Published: February 2024

Dossiê - Aprendendo-ensinando por meio da conversação online v. 14, n. 3, 2022.
Supporting a family living with young-onset dementia: a case study
Authors: Knight Jules , Pepper Amy
Published: February 2024

In the UK, it is estimated that people living with young-onset dementia (YOD) accounts for a small, but significant, number of the total population living with dementia. The diagnosis happens at an unexpected time in one's life, and as a life-limiting condition, there are implications for the whole family, including managing employment, finances and debt, supporting dependent children and accessing age-appropriate support services. YOD causes a disproportionate burden on family members and appropriate care services can be challenging to find. The case study discussed follows a family's journey from pre-diagnosis, to subsequently engaging with the Admiral Nurse Helpline and then an Admiral Nurse in the family's locality, and considers the issues and challenges faced by them.
The Care Quality Commission's new single assessment framework
Authors: Halliwell Amanda
Published: February 2024

In this article, Amanda Halliwell explores the key ‘need to knows’ about the Care Quality Commission's new single assessment framework, 10 years since the last iteration was launched. The framework enables inspectors to review integrated health and adult social care by the geographical area of each care system.
Microbiological and chemical characteristics of porkfish inasua, traditional fish fermented from Maluku, Indonesia
Authors: MAHULETTE FERYMON
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Mahulette F. 2023. Microbiological and chemical characteristics of porkfish inasua, traditional fish fermented from Maluku, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 1-8. Porkfish inasua consisted of two types, i.e., with and without coconut sap. The research aimed to analyze the microbiological and chemical characteristics of two types of porkfish inasua. The microbiological characteristics are used to determine the role of microbes and product safety whereas the chemical characteristics, including proximate composition, amino acids, and fatty acids contents can determine the nutritional value for consumption. The sample of porkfish inasua was taken from traditional producers in Layeni, Teon, Nila, and Serua (TNS) Islands, Maluku, Indonesia. The microbiological analysis was done using the plate count method. From the measurement, the total number of halotolerant and coliform bacterial in porkfish inasua without sap were 6.2 log cfu/g and 6.1 log cfu/g, respectively. In comparison, the total of Bacillus and related genera in porkfish inasua with sap was 5.9 log cfu/g at the end of fermentation. The fat content of both types of inasua was around 17%. The total amino acids and fatty acids contents of porkfish inasua without sap at the end of fermentation were 15.31 and 57.08%, while porkfish inasua with sap were 15.85 and 63.81%, respectively. The dominant bacteria found in porkfish inasua without sap was Staphylococcus saprophyticus, while porkfish inasua with sap was Bacillus cereus. These two bacteria play a role in fermentation so porkfish inasua was safe for consumption. Generally, chemical characteristics of porkfish inasua with sap were better than those of porkfish inasua without sap, but statistically, it was not significantly different. This research can improve the quality of porkfish inasua as local fermented fish products in Maluku.
Morphological variability and cluster analysis of 16 bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) genotypes
Authors: AL HAMDI MUHAMMAD FAUZAN FARID , ILYAS SATRIYAS , QADIR ABDUL , MAYES SEAN
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Hamdi MFFA, Ilyas S, Qadir A, Mayes S. 2024. Morphological variability and cluster analysis of 16 bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) genotypes. Biodiversitas 25: 97-106. Identifying morphological and germination characters in bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.) is important to determine the advantages and disadvantages of several genotypes. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of 16 bambara groundnut genotypes based on morphological markers, NDVI score, and germination variables. This study was conducted in Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia in March-July 2018. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with one factor: genotype, which consisted of 16 genotypes originating from Indonesia and Africa. The NDVI score did not affect the yield produced. Tiga Nicuru, DodR-R II, M-14 Gresik, Black Sukabumi, and Black Madura were the genotypes with the highest germination speed, while LunT was the lowest. Cluster analysis showed that bambara groundnut genotypes are classified into 4 clusters. The first cluster belongs to Sumedang and Sukabumi, the second belongs to Gresik, Madura, and Tasikmalaya, the third comes from West Africa (LunT and Tiga Nicuru), and the fourth comes from East Africa (IITA 686 and DodR-R II) and Southern Africa (S 19-3, Uniswa R and Uniswa R/G). The low similarity (28%) between genotypes from Indonesia and Africa shows that there are many differences in morphological characteristics. This high diversity is beneficial for creating superior cultivars.
Diversity and foraging activity of coffee insect pollinators in land near and far from the forest of North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: SINAGA RIKA ROULINA , MARYANA NINA , HIDAYAT PURNAMA
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Sinaga RR, Maryana N, Hidayat P. 2024. Diversity and foraging activity of coffee insect pollinators in land near and far from the forest of North Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 240-248. Coffee (Coffea spp.) is among the plant species that depend on insects to aid in its pollination process, where insect pollinators serve as intermediaries facilitating plant pollination. This study examined the diversity, abundance, and visiting activity of insect pollinators in coffee cultivation located in different areas, specifically those near the forest and those far from the forest in Simalungun District, North Sumatra. The study was carried out from September 2022 to February 2023 in six coffee cultivation sites spread across four sub-districts in Simalungun District, i.e., Silimakuta, Pematang Silimakuta, Purba, and Dolok Silau. The study's results revealed the presence of 16 species of insect pollinators in coffee cultivation near the forest and 13 species in those located far from the forest. The identified insect pollinators species were from Order Hymenoptera; Apis cerana, Lasioglossum sp., Dolichovespula norvegicoides, Diptera; Stomorhina discolor, Musca domestica, Bactrocera papayae, Nephrotoma flavescens, Episyrphus viridaureus, Oebalia sp., Coleoptera; Pachnaeus sp., Cantharis sp., Scarabaeidae sp 1., Maladera japonica, Lepidoptera; Agrotis segetum, Bradina diagonalis, and Nyctemera baulus. Notably, the abundance of coffee insect pollinators was more pronounced in close proximity to the forest compared to areas far from the forest. Regarding the visiting duration of these insects, S. discolor exhibited the longest visit duration of 76.46±1.19 seconds per flower, and the shortest duration in A. cerana was recorded at 8.35±0.23 seconds per flower.
Isolation and identification of Bifidobacterium species from human breast milk and infant feces in Indonesia
Authors: DOSAN ROBIN , MUDANA SAMUEL OWEN , JULYANTO CLARA MEIRINZHA PANG , PURNAMA EMILY TANIA , SUGATA MARCELIA , JO JUANDY , TAN TJIE JAN
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Dosan R, Mudana SO, Julyanto CMP, Purnama ET, Sugata M, Jo J, Tan TJ. 2024. Isolation and identification of Bifidobacterium species from human breast milk and infant feces in Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 337-343. There has been a growing interest in identifying emerging probiotic strains because of their benefits for human health. Many bifidobacteria originated from humans have been reported to possess probiotics properties. They are commonly found in the intestine of breast-fed infants. Hence, this study aimed to isolate and identify bifidobacteria from human breast milk and infant fecal samples in Indonesia and evaluate their probiotic properties. Twenty colonies were isolated from two independent fecal samples and two independent breast milk samples. Ten isolates (BR1-M1, BR1-B1, BR2-5, BR2-6, BR2-12, BS2-PB3, BS2-PB5, BS2-PS1, BS2-PS2, BS2-MB1) showed a compatible phenotypic character with Bifidobacteria based on the Bergey’s Manual, including Gram-positive, irregular rods, no catalase activity, non-spore-forming, and non-motile. Subsequently, four isolates with similar carbohydrate fermentation patterns as Bifidobacterium spp. were selected for further molecular identification based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. The results showed that BR2-5 and BR2-6 were found to be closely related to Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis with 100 and 98.39% similarity, respectively. Meanwhile, BS2-PS1 and BS2-PB3 were found to be closely related to Bifidobacterium breve with 100 and 98.26% similarity, respectively. Further investigation revealed that BR2-5 and BS2-PB3 were resistant to low pH (?4) and could tolerate the exposure of bile salts (1%). Both isolates survived under different oxidative stress conditions (aerobic and microaerophilic). In conclusion, BR2-5 and BS2-PB3 exhibited promising characteristics as probiotic candidates, though further investigations are required to substantiate these current findings.
Community structure of sea cucumber (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) resources in the Kepulauan Seribu National Park, Indonesia
Authors: HELMIYANI NAZWA AYUNDA , SURYANTI SURYANTI , PURWANTI FRIDA
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Helmiyani NA, Suryanti S, Purwanti F. 2024. Community structure of sea cucumber (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) resources in the Kepulauan Seribu National Park, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 344-354. Kepulauan Seribu National Park has several types of commercial sea cucumbers (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea). Many local and foreign communities take sea cucumbers from nature without paying attention to habitat conditions. This phenomenon causes a decrease in the availability of sea cucumbers. This research was carried out to help stabilize the sea cucumber ecosystem and its availability to be considered for its sustainability. This research was conducted in May-June 2023, at Kelapa Dua Island and Panjang Kecil Island in the Kepulauan Seribu National Park, Jakarta, Indonesia. Sampling was carried out using the field observation method, where the location points were determined by adjusting where the sea cucumber habitat was located. Sampling points were carried out on two islands, each island was assigned 4 station points, with the total number of stations on both islands being 8 station points. Sampling was carried out using perpendicular transect lines, divided into 3 zones. The data analyzed includes the Index of Diversity, Evenness, Dominance and Density. Based on the results 12 species were obtained from both islands, with the genera Holothuria, Stichopus, Bohadschia, Actinopyga, and Synapta. The highest density is at station 3 Kelapa Dua Island, with a density value of 0.57 (ind/m2), and the lowest density is at station 1 Panjang Kecil Island with a value of 0.14 (ind/m2). The results show a moderate diversity value, a low Dominance value, and a small evenness value, while the water quality result value can be said to be good because it has a value according to the survival quality standards for sea cucumbers in marine waters.
Cryptic diversity of mudskipper genus Boleophthalmus (Gobiiformes: Oxudercidae) from the north coast of East Java, Indonesia
Authors: SHABRINA FAIZAH NUR , WIBOWO KUNTO , ARISURYANTI TUTY
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Shabrina FN, Wibowo K, Arisuryanti T. 2024. Cryptic diversity of mudskipper genus Boleophthalmus (Gobiiformes: Oxudercidae) from the north coast of East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 412-420. Mudskippers of genus Boleophthalmus are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific area. This study aimed to examine the diversity of the genus Boleophthalmus from the north coast of East Java Province, Indonesia by employing the mitochondrial COI gene for DNA barcoding and morphological characterization. Ten individuals of this genus were analyzed. According to the similarity percentage evaluated using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) and Barcode of Life Data (BOLD) identification engines, all the individuals were identified as Boleophthalmus boddarti Pallas, 1770. However, phylogenetic analysis revealed that three of the individuals were identified as B. boddarti, and seven were identified as Boleophthalmus pectinirostris Linnaeus, 1758 originated from East Java, which is separated from the clade of B. pectinirostris from East Asia population. These results were supported by the genetic distance of 8.93%-13.81% and the morphological characteristics determined by principal component analysis (PCA). PCA revealed that B. boddarti and B. pectinirostris are primarily distinguished by the number of (longitudinal) scales (69-75 versus 113-123), length of second dorsal fin base (42.3-43.9 versus 38.1-49.0), and caudal fin length (18.1-22.4 versus 17.5-21.6). Further detailed studies are needed to clarify whether the seven individuals belonging to B. pectinirostris complex should be regarded as a new species or a new subspecies.
Unveiling coastal diversity: An inventory and conservation report of beach forest flora of Surigao del Sur, Philippines
Authors: RAMOS GISELLE B. , PANDUYOS JOCELYN B. , CARAY ROXAN E. , BACQUIAL LUZMINDA S.
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Ramos GB, Panduyos JB, Caray RE, Bacquial LS. 2024. Unveiling coastal diversity: An inventory and conservation report of beach forest flora of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. Biodiversitas 25: 421-430. Coastal greenbelts, comprise mangroves and beach forest trees, are pivotal in disaster mitigation and climate change resilience. Despite the evident importance of these coastal ecosystems, they are often overlooked in research due to a lack of comprehensive data on species community structure and their broader ecological importance. Hence, this present study was conducted to document beach forests composition and conservation status in selected coastal municipalities of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. The study was conducted in five sampling locations, namely, La Paz, Bil-at, Balibadon, Poblacion Cagwait and Arangasa Island. At each sampling location, a 2 km transect line, parallel to the beach’s shoreline, was established having a 100 square meter sampling plots spaced 50m apart. Beach species frequency counts, percentages, and diversity indices were quantified. The study documented 27 beach forest species belonging to 21 families and 25 genera with the dominant species being Crinum asiaticum, Cocos nucifera, Millettia pinnata, Timonius compressicaulis, and Terminalia catappa. Both Arangasa Island and La Paz beach forests have the highest species diversity (H’ = 2.04); however, Cagwait has the highest species richness (Margalef = 2.34). This study has potential to significantly contribute in addressing existing data gap regarding beach forest species in the Philippines. With the looming threat of extinction due to infrastructural development and anthropogenic activities, the study's outcomes stand as an urgent call to action; thus, a collaborative endeavor of Local Government Units, academicians, and community for conservation and protection before these species succumb to the threat of extinction.
Colon cancer survival in the elderly without curative surgery
Authors: Franklyn J , Poole A , Lindsey I
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to chart the natural history of elderly patients with colon cancer who are managed nonoperatively, with the primary outcome being life expectancy from diagnosis to death.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of patients aged 80 years and above diagnosed with colon cancer in a tertiary care referral hospital in England between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2017.

Results

Thirty-two patients were diagnosed with non-metastatic colon cancer and managed non-operatively. The median age of patients in this study was 86 years. The group had a median Charlson Comorbidity Index of 7 (range 6–12) and the median frailty score was 6 (range 3–8). Progression to metastatic disease was identified in two patients; two further patients showed locoregional progression of cancer and therefore required palliative surgical intervention. Survival of these patients ranged from 105 to 1,782 days with a median life expectancy of 586 days. Place of death was identified in 15/31 patients: 4 (27%) died in hospital, 12 (38%) died at home and 15 (47%) died in a nursing or residential home; data were missing for 1 patient (3%).

Conclusions

Nonoperative management of elderly patients with colon cancer yields reasonable life expectancy and a low risk of life-threatening local complications.
Diffuse photon remission associated with the center-illuminated-area-detection geometry. III. Perspectives on the patterns of saturation
Authors: Piao Daqing , Sun Tengfei , Farahzadi Nafiseh
Published: February 2024

Understanding scattering insensitiveness in diffuse reflectance
spectroscopy (DRS) will be useful to enhancing the spectral
specificity to absorption. In DRS based on
center-illuminated-area-detection (CIAD), the scattering response can
saturate as the relative strength of scattering with respect to the
collection size, represented by a dimensionless reduced scattering,
increases over a threshold. However, the formation of saturation
versus the same range of dimensionless reduced scattering may differ
between a fixed reduced scattering over an increasing collection size
(case 1) and an increasing reduced scattering over a fixed collection
size (case 2), due to the absorption. Part III demonstrates the
differences of the scattering saturation as well as the effect of
absorption on it in the CIAD geometry between the two cases while
assessed over the same range of the dimensionless reduced scattering.
A model allows predicting the absorption-dependent levels of
saturation and the corner parameters of saturation transition. When
assessed for the absorption coefficient to vary over [0.001,0.01,0.1,1]mm−1, the model-predicted levels of
saturation agree with MC results with ≤2.2% error in both cases. In comparison,
the model-predicted corner parameters of saturation show much
different agreement with MC results in the two cases, suggesting that
the saturation pattern is much better formed in one than in the other.
Experiments conforming to the CIAD geometry support the discrepancy of
the saturating patterns between the two cases.
Joint estimation model for FSO channel parameters and performance evaluation based on CNNs
Authors: Chen Dan , Wang Rui , Wang Chenhao , Gao Yue , Chen Haoya
Published: February 2024

Free space optical (FSO) communication systems experience turbulence-induced fading. As a possible solution, adaptive transmission, which adjusts transmitter parameters based on instantaneous channel state information (CSI), can be used. Most of the existing channel estimation methods ignore the impact of detection noise at the receiver, which will lead to additional estimation errors. In this paper, a joint estimation model based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) is proposed to estimate detection noise and turbulence fading parameters. We obtained turbulence channel simulation data sets considering the background of detection noise based on the edge probability distribution function of the receive signal. The training of the CNN estimator is carried out through maximum pooling, adaptive learning rate, and regularization, ultimately accurately estimating channel characteristics based on the optimal output results of the network. The simulation results show that the proposed CNN joint estimator performs better in high-detection-noise environments compared with traditional maximum likelihood estimators, and it has better generalization ability in different real atmospheric environments.
Time-varying propagation model and dynamic-feedback-phase correction for multiplexed orbital angular momentum beams in atmospheric turbulence
Authors: Hou Jin , Zhang Siqi , Xia Zhipeng , Wang Jingyu , Gao Dingshan , Citrin D. S. , Rao Wengui , Cao Zhenzhou , Yang Chunyong , Chen Shaoping
Published: February 2024

Freespace optical (FSO) communication in an outdoor setting is complicated by atmospheric turbulence (AT). A time-varying (TV) multiplexed orbital angular momentum (OAM) propagation model to consider AT under transverse-wind conditions is formulated for the first time, and optimized dynamic correction periods for various TV AT situations are found to improve the transmission efficiency. The TV nature of AT has until now been neglected from modeling of OAM propagation models, but it is shown to be important. First, according to the Taylor frozen-turbulence hypothesis, a series of AT phase screens influenced by transverse wind are introduced into the conventional angular-spectrum propagation analysis method to model both the temporal and spatial propagation characteristics of multiplexed OAM beams. Our model shows that while in weak TV AT, the power standard deviation of lower-order modes is usually smaller than that of higher-order modes, the phenomena in strong TV AT are qualitatively different. Moreover, after analyzing the effective time of each OAM phase correction, optimized dynamic correction periods for a dynamic feedback communication link are obtained. An optimized result shows that, under the moderate TV AT, both a system BER within the forward-error-correction limit and a low iterative computation volume with 6% of the real-time correction could be achieved with a correction period of 0.18 s. The research emphasizes the significance of establishing a TV propagation model for exploring the effect of TV AT on multiplexed OAM beams and proposing an optimized phase-correction mechanism to mitigate performance degradation caused by TV AT, ultimately enhancing overall transmission efficiency.
Characterization of ultrashort vector pulses from a single amplitude swing measurement
Authors: Barbero Cristian , Alonso Benjamín , Sola Íñigo J.
Published: February 2024

Ultrashort vector pulses exhibit time- and frequency-dependent polarization, sparking significant interest across various fields. Simple, robust, and versatile characterization techniques are crucial to meet this rising demand. Our study showcases how complete polarization dynamics are encoded within a single amplitude swing trace, demonstrated both theoretically and experimentally. We have developed a reconstruction strategy to effectively extract all this information. The amplitude swing technique's sensitivity to vector pulses offers a robust, compact in-line setup adaptable across diverse pulse bandwidths, durations, and spectral ranges. This self-referenced method offers effective measurement of ultrashort vector pulses, addressing the growing interest in these complex pulses.
Alignment-free coupling to arrays of diamond microdisk cavities with fabrication tolerant spin-photon interfaces
Authors: Flores Helaman R. , Layton Samuel R. , Englund Dirk , Camacho Ryan M.
Published: February 2024

We propose a design for an efficient spin-photon interface to a color center in a diamond microdisk. The design consists of a silicon oxynitride triangular lattice overlaid on a diamond microdisk without any aligmnent between the layers. This enables vertical emission from the microdisk into low-numerical aperture modes, with quantum efficiencies as high as 46% for a tin vacancy (SnV) center. Our design is robust to manufacturing errors, potentially enabling large scale fabrication of quantum emitters coupled to optical collection modes. We also introduce a novel approach for optimizing the free space performance of our device using a dipole model, achieving comparable results to full-wave finite difference time domain simulations with 7 · 106 reduction in computational time.
Modeling and optimizing through plenoptic function for the dual lenticular lens-based directional autostereoscopic display system
Authors: Li Xueling , Qiang Shengzhi , Wang Yuanqing , Li Xicai
Published: February 2024

We propose an autostereoscopic display system that ensures full resolution for multiple users by directional backlight and eye tracking technology. The steerable beam formed by directional backlight can be regarded as the result of sparsely sampling the light field in space. Therefore, we intuitively propose an optimization algorithm based on the characterization for the state of the steerable beams, which is computed in matrix form using the plenoptic function. This optimization algorithm aims to optimize the exit pupil quality and ultimately enhancing the viewing experience of stereoscopic display. Numerical simulations are conducted and the improvement in exit pupil quality achieved by the optimization scheme is verified. Furthermore, a prototype of the stereoscopic display that employs dual-lenticular lens sheets for the directional backlight has been constructed using the optimized optical parameters. It provides 9 independent exit pupils at the optimal viewing distance of 400 mm, with an exit pupil resolution of 1/30. The field of view is ±16.7°, the viewing distance range is 380 mm to 440 mm. At the optimal viewing distance 400 mm, the average crosstalk of the system is 3%, and the dynamic brightness uniformity across the entire viewing plane reaches 85%. The brightness uniformity of the display at each exit pupil is higher than 88%.
Optimization of optical system for reducing tolerance sensitivity based on the high-order nodal aberration theory
Authors: Jipeng Zhang , Guangwei Shi , Yuqi Huang , Shangnan Zhao , Mingxin Liu , Xin Zhang
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes an optimization method aimed at addressing the challenge of balancing system imaging performance and tolerance performance. The method is based on the high-order nodal aberration theory. The calculation method for high-order aberration coefficients is derived, along with the change in aberrations after introducing tolerance perturbation. The evaluation system includes both the imaging performance of the system and its tolerance factors. A comprehensive merit function is created for optimization. Three aspherical system examples were designed for verification, and the optimization results of this method show significantly lower tolerance sensitivity compared to the general optimization results and the SAB function optimization results of CODE V.
Passive localization and reconstruction of multiple non-line-of-sight objects in a scene with a large visible transmissive window
Authors: Shi Xiaojie , Tang Meng , Zhang Siqi , Qiao Kai , Gao Xing , Jin Chenfei
Published: February 2024

Passive non-line-of-sight imaging methods have been demonstrated to be capable of reconstructing images of hidden objects. However, current passive non-line-of-sight imaging methods have performance limitations due to the requirements of an occluder and aliasing between multiple objects. In this paper, we propose a method for passive localization and reconstruction of multiple non-line-of-sight objects in a scene with a large visible transmissive window. The analysis of the transport matrix revealed that more redundant information is acquired in a scene with a window than that with an occluder, which makes the image reconstruction more difficult. We utilized the projection operator and residual theory to separate the reconstruction equation of multiple objects into the independent equations of the located objects that can be reconstructed independently by TVAL3 and Split-Bregman algorithms, which greatly reduces the computational complexity of the reconstruction. Our method lays the foundation for multiple objects reconstruction in complex non-line-of-sight scenes.
Introduction to the special feature: amplify Black voices in optics and photonics
Authors: Toussaint Kimani C. , Bowden Audrey K. , Ndao Abdoulaye , N’Gom Moussa , Searles Thomas A.
Published: February 2024

This multi-journal special issue highlights the work of Black scientists and engineers in optics and photonics to accomplish the goal of engaging the entire optics and photonics community and bring awareness to the quality of their research and contributions to the field.