bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some properties of aloe vera gel powder prepared by microwave and oven drying
Authors: Agustian P , Ruriani E
Published: August 2024

Aloe barbadensis Miller is the most bioactive compound used in the food and pharmaceutical industry. This study was conducted to prepare the Aloe gel powder by using an oven and microwave at various temperatures and energy. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of microwave and oven drying on the physicochemical properties of aloe vera gel powder spesifically antioxidant activity. Some parameters examined were the water content, color, yield, and swelling power. In addition, it also has a higher yield and antioxidant activity with optimal visual performance. The results show that the Aloe gel powder obtained by oven drying meets the water content standard of less than 12% and needs a shorter drying time. This Aloe gel powder even showed a good potency of hydrogel formation, since its swelling property is 3% higher than Aloe gel dried by microwave method. The higher temperature at oven drying of 75 showed color value with the highest L value (brightness). Nevertheless, at microwave drying of 45 W energy had higher antioxidant activity (1.642 times higher) than 75°C. The recommended condition for the drying process of Aloe gel powder is using the microwave at an energy of 45 W for about 3 hours with an average yield of approximately 0,71%. In general, a higher temperature and energy of drying caused more changes in the physicochemical characteristics of aloe vera gel powder.
The effect of indigenous starch as fat and caloric reducer in mayonnaise formulation: properties and emulsion stability
Authors: Paramitasari D , Suparman  , Pudjianto K , Putra O N , Pramana Y S , Musa
Published: August 2024

This study responded to modern health concerns about high-calorie, high-fat food ingredients by investigating local starches (sago, tapioca, and corn) to reduce fat and calories in full-fat mayonnaise. Starch concentrations of 4%, 8%, and 12% w/w on starch weight were added to partially substitute the oil. Starch-based mayonnaise exhibited lower caloric and fat content compared to full-fat mayonnaise, with tapioca starch showing the most significant reduction. The lowest caloric content (4.03 kcal/gram) was achieved with 12% w/w of tapioca starch, whereas the lowest fat content (36.20% w/w) was achieved with the same concentration. The emulsion stability was improved by adding starch, particularly 12% w/w tapioca starch (99.43% stability). pH remained similar to full-fat mayonnaise (pH 3.9-4.1). Overall, local starches effectively reduced calories and fat while enhancing emulsion stability, with minimal impact on pH. This study demonstrated that local starch utilization effectively reduced calories and fat in mayonnaise, aligning with modern health concerns regarding dietary ingredients.
Phytochemical screening and antibacterial properties of Sungkai (Peronema canescens Jack.) leaf extract and fraction
Authors: Suryani A E , Nisa K , Indrianingsih A W , Handayani S , Fitrotin U , Rahayu E , Wulandari A A , Wijayati N
Published: August 2024

Sungkai (Peronema canescens Jack.) is a natural ingredient used as a traditional treatment for diarrhea, fever, toothache, mouthwash, and antiseptics. The objective of the study was to assess the antibacterial properties of Sungkai leaf extracts and fractions against pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella thypimurium) and to identify chemical compounds with antibacterial properties. The investigation starts with extraction and then continues with liquid-liquid fractionation with n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and water as solvents. Extracts and various fractions of Sungkai leaf were analyzed using phytochemical screening. The antibacterial property assay used the microdilution and paper disc method. The active component of the extract or fraction was determined by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The phytochemical screening results indicated that the ethanol extract included flavonoids, alkaloids, and steroids. Both the n-hexane fraction and chloroform fraction consist of alkaloid and steroid compounds. The ethyl acetate fraction contains phenolic compounds, while the n-butanol and water fractions contain flavonoid compounds. The microdilution method revealed that the chloroform fraction had the highest performance, with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value of 1000 µg/ml against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, the paper disc approach demonstrated that both the extract and the fraction did not produce an inhibitory zone against the four tested bacteria. The GC-MS analysis identified 17-Octadecynoic acid in the chloroform fraction as the most effective chemical compound against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The chloroform fraction of Sungkai leaf contains active compounds that have the potential for antibacterial activity.
Reproductive readiness in angus grade-black cattle: evaluating energy status and body condition for optimal breeding preparation
Authors: Adinata Y , Krishna N H , Riyanto J
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on optimizing reproductive readiness in Angus Grade-Black Cattle by assessing energy status and body condition for effective breeding preparation. The associations between age, Body Mass Index (BMI) serving as a measure of energy status, Body Condition Score (BCS) used for appraising internal fat reserves, and Frame Score (FS) employed to predict maturity and potential growth curves, are investigated as indicators of growth and maturity. Estimating reproductive performance is most easily achieved through changes in body weight, as reproductive traits hold significant economic importance for sustainable production. Age, Body Weight (BW), Withers Height (WH), Body Length (BL), Hip Height (HH), and BCS were measured in 93 cows and subsequently analyzed. Moreover, the relationships were examined through descriptive analysis, analysis of variance, and correlation. Positive and highly significant correlations were found between BW and age, BMI, BCS, and FS, with correlation values of 0.371, 0.870, 0.407, and 0.579, respectively. The linear regression model for predicting BW is as follows: BW (kg) = -146.341 + 2.356(age) + 17.897(BMI) - 3.796(BCS) + 27.106(FS), with an R2 value of 0.930. In conclusion, refining reproductive preparedness through comprehensive evaluation of energy status and body condition leads to more adept breeding preparation and fosters sustainable practices in cattle management.
Pregnancy and calving rate of artificial insemination with sexed semen in swamp buffaloes under field conditions
Authors: Praharani L , Kusumaningrum DA , Muttaqin Z , Sianturi RG , Rusdiana S , Talib C , Arrazy AF , Sopian E
Published: August 2024

Artificial Insemination (AI) with sexed semen in buffaloes has been applied for increased calf sex ratio as well as genetic improvement. A field study was conducted to evaluate conception and calving rates following artificial insemination (AI) with sexed semen in swamp buffaloes from different agroecosystems. The study was carried out in different agroecosystems: riverside (Brebes Regency) and oil palm plantations (Pandeglang Regency). A total of 72 buffalo cows aged 5–9 years old had normal body conditions. All buffalo cows were given estrus synchronization treatment using prostaglandin hormone (PGF) twice at 11-day intervals. The sexed semen was inseminated at a fixed time, 72 hours after the second PGF injection. A conception check was done 60 days after AI using ultrasonography and rectal palpation. The parameters observed were conception and calving rate. The data were analysed descriptively. The results showed the mean conception rate and calving rate were 50.7% and 46.2%, respectively. The differences in conception (43.3 vs. 57.1%) and calving rate (40.0 vs. 52.3%) between the agroecosystems of riverside and palm oil plantations, respectively. The use of sexed semen resulted in moderate conception and calving rates. This research indicated that sexed semen can be applied in an AI program for buffaloes at farm levels.
Early detection of pregnancy status in cattle using ISG17 polyclonal antibody recombinant
Authors: Suyatno  , Manzila Ifa , Lestari Puji , Anggraeni Anneke , Wahyuni Dimar Sri , Herdis  , Priyatno Tri Puji
Published: August 2024

Optimization of female cattle reproduction requires reliable and accurate systems for early pregnancy detection. Identifying pregnant status as early as possible is essential in managing reproductive cycles because it allows farmers to make early decisions about rebreeding strategies. Interferon stimulated gen (ISG) 17 is a gene expressed during maternal recognition pregnancy through Interferon tau (IFN-T) secretion signal, which begins on days 8 to 9 of pregnancy and peaks on days 16 to 17 (day 0 = day of estrus). This study aims to detect ISG17 expression using ISG17 polyclonal antibodies as a determinant of pregnancy in cattle that have received artificial insemination. The polyclonal antibody of ISG17 was produced in New Zealand white rabbits using ISG17 recombinant protein expressed by pET-32b expression vector in Escherichia coli systems of strain pLys BL21-Origami. ISG17 polyclonal antibody (ISG17-pAb) was used to detect ISG17 proteins expressed in blood serum obtained from 2 to 10 weeks-inseminated cattle (Frisian Holstein and Ongole) by NCM-ELISA method. ISG17-pAb was also labeled with gold nanoparticles and assembled into a lateral flow system for easier pregnancy detection in the field. NCM-ELISA test results showed a typical reaction between ISG17 antigen and ISG17-pAb in the form of brown dots after adding DAB substrate. Detection of pregnancy status showed that the antibody reaction to blood serum from dairy cows indicated 13.2% false negatives, 15.8% false positives, and 71.0% accuracy. In comparison, blood serum from beef cattle showed 7.5% false negatives, 0% false positives, and 92.5% accuracy. Interestingly, a lateral flow kit based on ISG17-pAb-gold nanoparticles showed good antibody reactions against blood serum from pregnant and non-pregnant cows. This indicates that the development of early pregnancy detection based on ISG17-pAb is prospective for optimizing productive cows by continuing to increase accuracy.
Supplementation of papaya leaf extract in drinking water to optimize broiler chicken carcass production
Authors: Sadarman  , Harahap A E , Mardi S , Qomariyah N , Azmi A F M , Nurfitriani R A , Syahniar T M , Andriani M
Published: August 2024

The papaya plant (Carica papaya Linn.) is regarded as an alternative option that is believed to have the potential to reduce fat accumulation in broiler chickens. In society, papaya leaves are well-known as ingredients in traditional medicine due to their content of alkaloid compounds and proteolytic enzymes, namely papain and chymopapain, which play a significant role in digestion and facilitate intestinal activity. The impact of adding Papaya Leaf Extract (PLE) to drinking water on parameters such as final body weight, carcass weight, carcass percentage, abdominal fat weight, and abdominal fat percentage is sought to be assessed in this study. Eighty-seven-day-old chicks, irrespective of gender, constitute the subjects of the research. Commercial feed, papaya leaves, research facilities and equipment, and manual and digital scales are utilized in the study. An experimental approach with a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) is followed in the research methodology. Five treatments, each repeated four times, are included in the study: T0 (control with 1 liter of drinking water), T1 (T0 + 5 ml of PLE), T2 (T0 + 15 ml of PLE), T3 (T0 + 25 ml of PLE), and T4 (T0 + 35 ml of PLE). Chicken slaughtering is performed after 35 days of rearing, with samples taken randomly from pens 1-20 and subsequently processed, adhering to Islamic principles. Measured parameters include final body weight, carcass weight, carcass percentage, abdominal fat weight, and abdominal fat percentage. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) in a Completely Randomized Design is employed for data analysis. The research findings suggest that providing papaya leaf extract to broiler chickens up to 35 days of age does not significantly affect final body weight, carcass weight, carcass percentage, abdominal fat weight, or abdominal fat percentage. Based on the results obtained from the broiler chicken carcass production in this study, the administration of PLE to broiler chickens can be conducted.
Optimization of antimicrobial activity of sea cucumber Holothuria scabra extract using reflux extraction based on two levels factorial analysis
Authors: Ratnaningrum D , Warsito M F , Endah E S , Saraswaty V , Risdian C , Ardiansyah A
Published: August 2024

Sea cucumber Holothuria scabra is a potential export commodity in the fisheries sub-sector. Some are used indirectly in extract form. Selection of the extraction method is carried out by considering its activity. One of the benefits that is often claimed in sea cucumber products is antimicrobial activity. This study aims to determine the antimicrobial activity of sea cucumbers after the extraction process using the reflux method. The ethanol 70% was used as solvent with citric acid as catalyst. Selection of the extraction solvent and catalyst is carried out by considering its safety for human consumption. The catalyst is used to hydrolyze polysaccharides. With the presence of a catalyst combine with various contact times, and temperature we try to assay its microbial activity. We used a fixed amount of solvent and the catalyst concentration was set from 0 to 1% (w/v), contact time 6 to 18 hours, temperature 25 to 55 °C. The experiment design was using factorial analysis at two levels. All the solution was filtered and evaporated to get the dried extract and freeze-dried before it was tested in S. aureus, B. subtilis, and E. coli to see its inhibition zone. The result showed that on SA catalyst and temperature had a significant effect on the inhibition zone. However, on BS and EC, only the catalyst has a significant effect on the inhibition zone. The best-obtained result was estimated using higher catalyst concentration, shorter extraction times, and the lowest temperature.
Lipase from coral associated bacteria: screening, optimizing lipase production, and molecular characterization
Authors: Haryati T , Fatmawati F , Laksmi F A , Nuryana I , Putri D H , Sa’diah J N , Khaerunnisa
Published: August 2024

To obtain lipase that can be utilized in industrial applications, it is crucial to explore a new source of lipase. Marine bacteria, especially those associated with coral, are a potential source of lipase. In this study, a total of 50 coral-associated bacteria was screened based on their lypolitic activity on a selective agar plate that contained olive oil and rhodamine B. The highest lypolitic activity was observed on isolate 30.10.11. To obtain a high lipase yield from culture cultivation, we optimized lipase production media using parameters of induction time, substrate oil, nitrogen source, pH, temperature, and % oil induction variation. The optimum condition with lipolytic activity at the level of 0.680 U/mL was obtained by cultivating the coral bacterium on modified Zobel marine media with 0.6% tryptone, 5% soybean oil induction, pH 8, 150 rpm, and 30 °C for 24 hours. Based on the 16S rRNA sequence analysis, the coral bacterium isolate 30.10.11 showed 99.65% similarity to Staphylococcus haemolyticus. Lipase obtained from this isolate is potential to be used in industrial applications, therefore it needs further research on its lipase characterization.
Genetic diversity of 30 soybean cultivars based on microsatellite markers
Authors: Puspitasari W , Ahsan M D , Reflinur
Published: August 2024

Increasing soybean production presents a significant challenge within soybean breeding endeavors. The foundation for achieving success in plant breeding lies in comprehensive knowledge of genetic diversity. Thus, this study aimed to assess the genetic diversity among 30 soybean cultivars by employing microsatellite markers. DNA extraction was conducted using a modified version of the Doyle & Doyle method, followed by amplification of each sample with nine pairs of microsatellite primers. Gel visualization of the amplified samples facilitated scoring, distinguishing between polymorphic and monomorphic primers. The analysis unveiled the detection of 59 alleles, varying from 2 to 15 alleles per locus, with an average of 6.6 alleles per marker. The resulting gene diversity averaged at 0.63, with a mean main allele frequency of 0.44. Moreover, the obtained PIC values ranged from 0.18 to 0.92, with an average value of 0.60. Notably, four microsatellite markers exhibited high informativity (PIC > 0.7). Cluster analysis based on genetic similarity coefficients grouped the 30 soybean cultivars into three main clusters, demonstrating the genetic variability within the utilized soybean genetic material.
The stepwise regression analysis method for estimating sorghum production in Karangmojo
Authors: Muazam A , Widyayanti S , Kristamtini  , Daryono B S
Published: August 2024

Sorghum is a multifunctional crop that can be utilized as a source of food, feed, and bioenergy. Sorghum is a plant that can adapt to land with optimal conditions, dry land with minimal nutrients and tolerant to pests and diseases. Sorghum has been widely cultivated in Indonesia, one in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta. Sorghum production is influenced by several agronomic characteristics. The purpose of the study was to determine agronomic variables that affect sorghum production. The research was conducted in Karangmojo, Gunungkidul, Special Region of Yogyakarta, from October 2022 to March 2023. Sorghum varieties were local varieties as well as national superior varieties which are usually planted by local farmers. A total of 10 variables were analysed for their significance level on sorghum yield. The collected data were then processed using a multiple linear regression model (stepwise) using SPSS 16.0. The results showed that of the 10 agronomic variables observed, two variables contributed to the sorghum production, namely panicle weight and days to harvesting. The regression model from stepwise results is y = 8.884 + 0.036x3 – 0.062x10, with R2 = 0.754. This result indicates that the two independent variables are the main variables in determining sorghum production in Karangmojo.
Fusarium wilt of some shallot local varieties in Yogyakarta alternating-bed (surjan) agroecosystem
Authors: Pustika A B , Purwaningsih H , Rahmawati R , Darini M T
Published: August 2024

Leaf twisted is one of the dominant diseases in shallot that is caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cepae. Rain intensity and air humidity due to climate change affect the severity of disease and become an essential factor for high yield loss. Alternating-bed system (surjan) is one land arrangement to cultivate multiple commodities in an irrigated rice agroecosystem. It is implemented by farmers in Yogyakarta. However, it relates to climate conditions. Research about tolerant or moderately resistant shallot varieties against leaf twisted disease in alternating-bed systems is very beneficial for farmers to increase yield. This research aims to determine the potential local shallot variety which is moderately resistant and tolerant against leaf twisted and provides high yield. The research was conducted at the alternating-bed system in Kulon Progo District, Yogyakarta Indonesia from August to September 2022. The experiment was designed in randomized blocks with five replications. Shallot varieties such as Siyem, Srikayang, Crok Kuning, and Tajuk were used in this experiment. Results showed that disease severity in Tajuk, Srikayang, Siyem, and Crok Kuning was 7.60%, 9.60%, 19.60%, and 14.00%, respectively. Disease incidence of Tajuk, Srikayang, Siyem, and Crok Kuning were 0.56%, 0.83%, 1.81%, and 1.25%, respectively. The yields of Tajuk, Srikayang, Siyem, and Crok Kuning were 7.34, 6.27, 5.31, and 7.04 tons per ha, respectively. Siyem and Crok Kuning were categorized as moderately resistant, while Srikayang and Tajuk were tolerant. All four varieties are potentially developed at alternating-bed systems in Yogyakarta.
First report of Fusarium solani causing pink root disease on garlic (Allium sativum L.) in Lombok, Indonesia
Authors: Hidayah B N , Simamora A V , Triwiratno A , Wiratno  , Nurmansyah  , Idris H , Warda  , Nasrifah I , Hamsyah M T , Rani M , Nurhaedah  , Suriadi A , Hadiawati L , Fitrahtunnisa  , Mardiana  , Pramudia A
Published: August 2024

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the important agricultural commodities in Indonesia, with Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) Province among the main producing regions. Several incidences of pink root disease symptoms have been reported in garlic plantations in the Sembalun highlands of Eastern Lombok District, NTB Province, Indonesia. This study aimed to isolate and identify the fungal pathogen responsible for pink root disease in garlic plants in this region. Fungal pathogens isolated from diseased garlic plants were morphologically investigated under a microscope and molecularly identified which includes DNA isolation, PCR, sequencing, processing of sequencing data, and NCBI blasts. The symptoms of the diseased plants in the fields were leaf wilting, stunted growth, and shortened roots which first turn light pink, then darken through red and purple, later turn black, and die. The mycelial colour of the pathogen on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media was growth white. Observation of the pathogen under a microscope indicated that the pathogen produced oval micro-conidia and crescent-shaped macro-conidia. Based on the BLAST results which are based on the NCBI database, it can be concluded that the species of Fusarium solani was responsible for invading the garlic plant. This is the first report of pink root disease on Lombok Island in Indonesia.
New lower bounds for the Schur-Siegel-Smyth trace problem
Authors: Orloski Bryce , Talebizadeh Sardari Naser , Smith Alexander
Published: August 2024

We derive and implement a new way to find lower bounds on the smallest limiting trace-to-degree ratio of totally positive algebraic integers and improve the previously best known bound to 1.80203. Our method adds new constraints to Smyth’s linear programming method to decrease the number of variables required in the new problem of interest. This allows for faster convergence recovering Schur’s bound in the simplest case and Siegel’s bound in the second simplest case of our new family of bounds. We also prove the existence of a unique optimal solution to our newly phrased problem and express the optimal solution in terms of polynomials. Lastly, we solve this new problem numerically with a gradient descent algorithm to attain the new bound 1.80203.
Ghost People
Authors: Nahme Paul E
Published: August 2024

What does race feel like? That is to say, what does race make people feel? What does it feel like to be told your identity and social destiny are bound up with how others feel about you? And what does it feel like when you are told race no longer applies to you, but others still feel the same way about you? This is a book that traces the haunting feelings that constitute race as a structural, social, and psychic experience in modern European history by focusing on the case of Jewish racialization. Taking a theoretical cue from W. E. B. Du Bois’s question in The Souls of Black Folk, “How does it feel to be a problem?,” Ghost People queries the affective experience of racial formation and explores the ways feeling and emotion have colored the lives of different people in social, political, and psychosocial dimensions. From the nineteenth-century Jewish Question and the racialization of Jews in Europe to the construction of Judaism as a religion and the disavowal of racial categories in liberal secularism, this book asks after the enduring problem of race for Jewish identity and for how Jews have remained haunted by the specter of race in the modern world.
Disavowing Other Worlds
Authors: Nahme Paul E
Published: August 2024

This chapter interrogates the development of Enlightenment rationalism and universalism as deployed in the nineteenth-century anthropology of religion and traces the racialization of religion that accompanies theories of fetishism and primitive religion.
Choreography and Cuts
Authors: Buchman Andrew
Published: August 2024

Chapter 3, “Choreography and Cuts,” provides an overview of Kelly’s cinematically conceived choreography for the film, emphasizing his use of mime, dramatic subtexts, and props. Donen's montages employing camera movements and special effects also receive close attention. A detailed analysis of the “Broadway Ballet” discusses Freudian imagery, other visual motifs, and implied narratives in the number. Negotiations with Hollywood’s in-house censors were mostly benign but resulted in a jump cut still visible in Charisse’s first duet with Kelly in the ballet. A final round of cuts totaling almost twenty minutes eliminated two solo musical numbers, both slow ballads, and streamlined several other scenes, arguably improving the finished film overall.
Crunelle and the morceaux de concours
Authors: Garrison Leonard
Published: August 2024

Gaston Crunelle took an active interest in the morceaux de concours commissioned by the Paris Conservatory for its annual concours and was open to various styles of music. He met with each composer before the pieces were published and made practical suggestions regarding their flute writing. During his tenure, important works by Dutilleux, Sancan, Jolivet, Messiaen, and others were written for the concours. Aside from these well-known pieces, others by Gallois-Montbrun, Chaynes, Rivier, and Keller merit attention. The chapter provides details on every morceaux de concours written during Crunelle’s tenure, which range in style from conservative to serial and atonal.
The Geographic Template Visualization and Analysis of Biogeographic Patterns
Authors: Lomolino Mark V. , Riddle Brett R. , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: August 2024

This chapter discusses the visualization and analysis of biogeographic patterns. The most obvious patterns in the distributions of organisms occur in response to variations in the physical environment, which include variations in climatic, oceanic, and other environmental conditions. Two-dimensional renderings of the geographic templates range from early maps and cartography to projections and geographic coordinate systems. The chapter considers conflict over visualization in biogeography in terms of accuracy, precision, simplification, and abstraction. It details the considerations and process of analyzing biogeographic patterns while referring to the issues with pseudoreplication, spatial autocorrelation, and temporal autocorrelation and the assumptions that advances in technology will solve assessing geographical patterns.
The Distribution and Dynamics of Communities, Biomes, and Ecosystems
Authors: Lomolino Mark V. , Riddle Brett R. , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: August 2024

This chapter looks into the distribution and dynamics of ecological communities, biomes, and ecosystems. It provides an overview of communities and ecosystems, which are the highest levels of biotic and ecological organization. Compositional and functional approaches to mapping communities include the study of phytosociology and the notion of evolutionary convergence. The chapter then looks at several terrestrial biomes and aquatic communities. It introduces the field of ecosystem geography, which refers to the branch of science that focuses on how processes have influenced the distribution of ecosystems since environmental changes resulted in major shifts and transformations of communities and ecosystems.
Dispersal and Immigration
Authors: Lomolino Mark V. , Riddle Brett R. , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: August 2024

This chapter looks at dispersal and immigration. Dispersal, which refers to the movements of organisms away from their natal range, only influences species distributions and other biogeographic patterns if the result is immigration. All biogeographic patterns result from the combined effects of these responses to environmental variation since populations disperse to new regions, evolve, and adapt to local environments, or suffer extinction. Range expansion occurs through the processes of jump dispersal, diffusion, and secular migration. These processes vary depending on the pace and distances involved. The chapter then looks into the physical and biological barriers to successful dispersals and the process of biotic exchange between biogeographic regions.
Reconstructing the Geographic History of Lineages and Biotas
Authors: Lomolino Mark V. , Riddle Brett R. , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: August 2024

This chapter looks into the reconstruction of the geographic history of lineages and biotas. It outlines the development of concepts and shifts of paradigms in historical biogeography. Phylogeography refers to a popular approach that allows the reconstruction of lineage and biotic histories across recent time frames and among populations within species. The chapter explains the continuing reintegration of once-divergent perspectives and approaches that are paving the way for historical biogeography and ecological biogeography. It recounts how historical biogeography evolved into a productive and energetic discipline with the power to offer some amazing insights into the geography of lineage, biotic diversification, and distributional dynamics.
From the Foundations to the Frontiers
Authors: Lomolino Mark V. , Riddle Brett R. , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: August 2024

This chapter reviews the foundations and frontiers of biogeography. It explains that the long and distinguished history of biogeography is tightly interwoven with that of ecology and evolutionary biology. Knowledge of the patterns seen in the geography of nature and causal explanations of the processes responsible for them accumulated and matured into what we know as the science of biogeography. The chapter highlights that some of the most effective strategies for conserving the Earth's biological diversity will continue to rely on insights from biogeographers. It mentions how the expanding store of information and arsenal of analytical tools proved to be invaluable for reconstructing the Earth's geological and environmental dynamics and the biotas' evolutionary histories.
Life cycle of macrophages in atherosclerotic inflammation progression and resolution: mediators and interventions (narrative review)
Authors: Feng Yuxiao , Wang Qinlan , He Bin , Hou Xumin
Published: August 2024

As one of the pathological causes of coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis poses a major threat to human health. Macrophages play an important role in regulating atherosclerotic disease progression. Specifically, atherosclerotic inflammation is initiated when low-density lipoproteins infiltrate the subcutaneous area and are phagocytosed by macrophages, leading to foam cell formation. The subsequent inflammation progression or resolution depends on the delicate balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators. In cases where proinflammatory factors dominate, macrophages tend to activate the pyroptosis and necrosis pathways, resulting in the release of intracellular damage-associated molecular patterns and promoting necrotic core formation and plaque progression. Conversely, when anti-inflammatory factors prevail, macrophages engage in autophagy-mediated intracellular lipid metabolism while inhibiting inflammation progression through the efferocytosis of apoptotic cells. The regulatory function of macrophages in atherosclerosis can also be understood from the perspective of their life cycles. Lipid retention within the arterial intima and its subsequent uptake by macrophages are the characteristic pathological hallmarks of atherosclerosis. As pivotal effector cells in this process, macrophages with their distinctive performances decisively determine the progression and resolution of atherosclerotic inflammation. The complete life cycle of macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques encompasses chemotaxis, infiltration, polarization, uptake of lipoproteins for metabolic efflux, foam cell formation, lipid overload, and various forms of programmed necrosis, including autophagy, pyroptosis, apoptosis, necrosis, and efferocytosis, to facilitate the removal of apoptotic macrophages and limit inflammation progression. The behavior of macrophages in atherosclerosis has rarely been comprehensively addressed in previous review articles. This article provides an extensive overview of the entire life cycle of macrophages following their response to atherosclerotic inflammation and the impact of regulatory factors on inflammation progression and resolution. Considering that macrophages play a pivotal role in the inflammatory response associated with atherosclerosis, targeting the regulation of their life cycle holds promise for therapeutic interventions against atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular diseases.
Second Toe-to-thumb Transfer Using Intramedullary Screw Fixation after Traumatic Thumb Amputation
Authors: Ghosh Kanad , Coalson Elam , Unadkat Jignesh
Published: August 2024

Loss of the thumb secondary to trauma leads to significant disability due to the digit contributing 40% of overall hand function. Toe-to-thumb transfer has been a well-studied reconstructive method as a means to restore function after thumb amputation. First described in 1969 by Cobbett and colleagues, toe-to-thumb transfers have undergone several modifications in technique to better improve functional and aesthetic outcomes, including toe wrap-around flaps, trimmed great toe transfer, and second toe transfers. Although these methods have allowed patients to retain use of the thumb, traditional interosseous wire reattachment often leads to significant stiffness and need for prolonged rehabilitation to regain maximal function. Intramedullary screw fixation has been increasingly used in phalanx and metacarpal fractures, but its implementation outside of these contexts is not well reported. Here, we present a case of a patient who presented with traumatic thumb amputation and was treated with second toe-to-thumb transfer with intramedullary screw fixation, a novel mode of interosseous rigid fixation in toe-to-hand surgery. Postoperatively, our patient was able to begin mobilizing the new thumb immediately, which allowed for earlier return to work. We believe our technique can be applied to other cases of second toe, as well as great toe, transfers to improve length of recovery and rehabilitation postoperatively.
Concordance of Cytomegalovirus Saliva and Urine Testing in Infants for the Detection of Congenital Infection
Authors: Stark Ashley , Greenberg Rachel G. , Pittman Rick , Weimer Kristin E. D.
Published: August 2024

Congenital cytomegalovirus is a leading cause of neurodevelopmental impairment and sensorineural hearing loss. We evaluated infants ≤21 days postnatal age who had both urine and saliva cytomegalovirus testing and determined concordance between the 2 tests and influence of very low birth weight on concordance. Discordance was low overall between urine and saliva testing; however, discordance was high in very low birth weight infants.
An Unusual High Prevalence of Cryptococcus (Naganishia) diffluens Colonization in Neonates Hospitalized in a Referral Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ashrafi Khozani Mahtab , Abastabar Mahdi , Moazeni Maryam , Rezai Mohammad Sadegh , Farhadi Roya , Yazdani Charati Jamshid , Mayahi Sabah , Haghani Iman , Ghazanfari Mona , Tavakoli Mahin , Javidnia Javad , Roilides Emmanuel , Hedayati Mohammad Taghi
Published: August 2024

Background:

Although the Candida species continue to be the most frequent colonizer of neonatal skin, a clear increase of colonization due to rare yeast-like fungi has been reported. In this study, we report an unusual high prevalence of Cryptococcus diffluens colonization in neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) over a 1-month period.

Methods:

From January 2020 to June 2021, the study included all neonates who were admitted to the NICU of Bu Ali Sina Hospital at least 28 days old. Skin swabs from different anatomical areas were collected. Sampling was done 3 times/week. Each sample was inoculated into Sabouraud Dextrose Agar containing chloramphenicol and CHROMagar Candida, separately. The plates were incubated at 30 °C and 35 °C, respectively. Identification of the isolates was molecularly confirmed. In vitro antifungal susceptibility testing of the isolates was performed against different antifungal agents using the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute protocol.

Results:

Among 1026 samples collected from 78 neonates, 213 yeast isolates were recovered, of which the Candida species were the most common (77.5%), followed by C. diffluens (16.9%). During the study, 55 isolated yeasts were collected from December 26, 2020, to January 26, 2021, of which 65.5% were C. diffluens, while Candida spp. constituted 100% and 98.3% of the isolates before and after this period, respectively. The most frequent sources of C. diffluens were genital regions (27.8%). Of 36 C. diffluens isolates, 13.9%, 22.2%, 52.8%, and 83.3% were non-wild type to fluconazole, amphotericin B, itraconazole and 5-flucytosine, respectively.

Conclusions:

We reported for the first time an unusual high prevalence of C. diffluens colonization in neonates hospitalized in NICU. Our findings also showed the high minimum inhibitory concentration of amphotericin B and 5-flucytosine against C. diffluens.
Activation of GABAergic neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus alleviates hyperalgesia induced by ovarian hormone withdrawal
Authors: Wu Hui , Xie Linghua , Chen Qing , Xu Fang , Dai Ange , Ma Xiaolin , Xie Shulan , Li Hua , Zhu Fangfang , Jiao Cuicui , Sun Lihong , Xu Qi , Zhou Yudong , Shen Yi , Chen Xinzhong
Published: August 2024

Menopausal and postmenopausal women, characterized by a significant reduction in ovarian hormones, have a high prevalence of chronic pain with great pain intensity. However, the underlying mechanism of hyperalgesia induced by ovarian hormone withdrawal remains poorly understood. Here, we report that decreases in the activity and excitability of GABAergic neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) are associated with hyperalgesia induced by ovariectomy in mice. Supplementation with 17β-estradiol, but not progesterone, is sufficient to increase the mechanical pain threshold in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and the excitability of DRN GABAergic (DRNGABA) neurons. Moreover, activation of the DRNGABA neurons projecting to the lateral parabrachial nucleus was critical for alleviating hyperalgesia in OVX mice. These findings show the essential role of DRNGABA neurons and their modulation by estrogen in regulating hyperalgesia induced by ovarian hormone withdrawal, providing therapeutic basis for the treatment of chronic pain in physiological or surgical menopausal women.
Universal Lynch Syndrome Screening in Colorectal Cancer: A 5-Year Experience of a Portuguese Pathology Department
Authors: Almeida Vânia , Veloso Luis , Teixeira Paulo , Cipriano Augusta
Published: August 2024

Lynch syndrome (LS) is a prevalent genetic condition associated with colorectal cancer (CRC). Accurate identification of LS patients is challenging, and a universal tumor screening approach has been recommended. We present the methodology and results of universal LS screening in our hospital’s Pathology Department. This retrospective study analyzed CRC tumors from a 5-year period (2017-2021). Immunohistochemistry was used to assess MMR protein expression, followed by BRAF V600E analysis and MLH1 promoter methylation. Statistical analysis examined associations between clinicopathologic variables MMR status and LS-suspected tumors. The study analyzed 939 colorectal carcinomas, with 8.7% exhibiting mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency, significantly lower than previous research. After applying the algorithm, 24 LS-suspected cases were identified, accounting for 2.6% of tested patients and 29.3% of MMR-deficient tumors. Our study establishes the feasibility of universal testing for all new cases of CRC in detecting individuals at risk for LS, even in the absence of clinical information. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the MMR status in our population, further investigations are warranted.
The First Case of 99mTc-FAPI Uptake in Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma
Authors: Sahafi Pegah , Jafari Zarrin Ghabaei Farid , Aryana Kamran , Aledavood Seyed amir , Aghaee Atena
Published: August 2024

This case study presents the first demonstration of FAPI ligand uptake in a patient with optic nerve sheath meningioma. The patient, a 23-year-old woman who had previously undergone surgery for refractory optic meningioma, was referred to our department for 177Lu-DOTATATE therapy. After 3 cycles of 177Lu-DOTATATE administration, her proptosis significantly decreased. Two months after her last therapeutic cycle, a 99mTc-FAPI scan was performed. The scan revealed a mass with moderately increased uptake in the left retro-orbital region. This study is believed to be the first to demonstrate FAPI ligand uptake in a patient with optic nerve sheath meningioma.
Optic Atrophy From Retrograde Transsynaptic Axonal Degeneration Following Pediatric Brain Injury
Authors: Maran Jack Jonathan , Sharpe Cynthia , Perry David , Danesh-Meyer Helen V. , Hull Sarah
Published: August 2024

Background:

The patterns of optic atrophy due to retrograde transsynaptic degeneration (RTSD) have not been well characterized in children. This study aimed to characterize optic atrophy in pediatric patients with focal intracerebral lesions.

Methods:

A retrospective review of children with optic atrophy and focal intracerebral lesions was conducted. Ophthalmic data were recorded, including visual acuity, color vision, formal automated visual fields and optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) and ganglion cell layer.

Results:

Six patients (83.33% male) were included. The mean visual acuity (VA) of all eyes was 0.30 logMAR (20/40 Snellen), with no significant difference in the mean logMAR VA in the ipsilateral eye to the location of the lesion compared with the contralateral eye (0.30 vs 0.30, P = 1.000). Color vision (available in 5 patients) was normal in 2, mildly reduced in one and markedly reduced in 2. Bitemporal optic disc pallor was observed in 5 out of 6 patients. OCT data revealed that pRNFL thickness was most significantly diminished in the temporal (95% CI: −44.71 to −14.18 µm, P = 0.0021), inferotemporal (95% CI: −75.06 to −5.17 µm, P = 0.0294), and superotemporal (95% CI: −76.82 to −18.51 µm, P = 0.0055) sectors. Average pRNFL thickness was significantly reduced compared with normative data in both the ipsilateral (95% CI: −40.76 to −11.69 µm, P = 0.0003) and the contralateral eye (95% CI: −38.46 to −5.83 µm, P = 0.0063). When only nasal and temporal data were analyzed, mean pRNFL thickness was still diminished compared with normative data (95% CI: −33.01 to −9.77 µm, P = 0.0012).

Conclusions:

Children presenting with optic atrophy, particularly with bitemporal optic atrophy, should have neuroimaging to exclude any underlying serious intracranial pathology.
Remote islands as natural laboratories: human–food association increases attraction to humans and novelty exploration in a seabird
Authors: Danel Samara , Rebout Nancy , Belle Solenne , Caro Samuel P. , Bonadonna Francesco , Biro Dora
Published: August 2024

Increased attraction to humans and their objects often arises after repeated and positive human–wildlife encounters (e.g. food provided in tourist settings). The causes of this ‘over-attraction’, which may result from a learned association between humans and food, are still poorly studied in wild animals. Understanding the influence of humans on animals’ responses is yet crucial to prevent negative effects (e.g. aggression). We presented three novel objects to two groups of free-ranging brown skuas (
Catharacta antarctica
ssp.
lonnbergi
) in the remote sub-Antarctic, where their habitats show no or minimal human disturbance. Skuas in one group (Verte) had previously participated in repeated food-rewarded behavioural and cognitive tasks with a human experimenter; skuas in the other group (Ratmanoff) had never done so. Objects consisted of (i) one natural-food-resembling object (plastic fish), (ii) one anthropogenic food object (real cake slice), and (iii) one anthropogenic non-food object (yellow glove). Verte group skuas approached the human experimenter and pecked significantly more and sooner at novel objects. Human–food association may have thus resulted in increased attraction to humans and novelty exploration in previously naive brown skuas, making this species a useful model for investigating the consequences of experience with humans on wildlife behaviour.
Spatial distribution pattern of mustelids in the eastern edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Liu Zhuotao , Su Tengwei , Li Qian , Li Zhaoyuan
Published: August 2024

Evolutionary theory predicts that the species of an evolutionarily successful taxon would not overlap in spatial distribution. To test the prediction, we document our research on the spatial associations of mustelids, an evolutionarily successful group of order Carnivore, using infrared camera trap data on species distribution collected from the national nature reserves (NNRs) of Liancheng, Wolong, Tangjiahe and Heizhugou in China in 2017–2021. Data showed seven mustelid species occurring in the study area, including
Arctonyx collaris
,
Meles leucurus
,
Martes foina
,
Martes flavigula
,
Mustela altaica
,
Mustela nivalis
and
Mustela sibirica
. Following Ricklef’s definition of biological community, we identified five networks of species associations. The mustelids occurred in the networks. Species from the same genus, such as
M. foina
and
M. flavigula
, stayed in different networks to avoid competition owing to similar feeding habits or habitat preferences. Species with different feeding habits or habitat preferences either occurred in different networks, such as
M. altaica
and
M. flavigula
, or coexisted in the same networks but avoided direct spatial associations, such as
M. foina
and
A. collaris
. Asymmetrical associations were found between different genera, such as
M. foina
and
M. altaica
, or between different subfamilies, such as
M. flavigula
and
A. collaris
. These associations may be attributed to interspecific killing or seed dispersal. However, these associations accounted for only a small proportion and would not impact the species diversity of Mustelidae. It is thus concluded that the prediction is supported by our research findings and that spatial avoidance may be the biogeographic strategy of maintaining the species diversity of the family. We also found that the well protection of the mustelids may benefit the overall biodiversity conservation in Heizhugou, an NNR that has experienced severe deforestation.