bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barn swallow roosting at an oil gathering station
Authors: Mardiastuti A , Hartono T T , Firmansyah F S , Manurung R , Refiandy M
Published: December 2023

Barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a migratory aerial-insectivorous bird and has been known to winter in Indonesia. Normally roost on trees, there was a report that thousands of them roosted on human-made building. The objective of this paper was to document the barn swallows that use an oil gathering station (GS) as their roosting site, examined their roosting habitat, and seek the reasons on why the GS was selected as the roosting habitat for the barn swallows. Observation was conducted in Petapahan GS, Riau, in May 2023. Swallow abundance was estimated in the evening (6:30-8:00pm), perching spots were observed. The land-use of surrounded area was observed. There were 4,000 barn swallows roosted at night in the GS. There were many big tanks, small-large pipes, handrails, valves, processing buildings that can be used for roosting. At night, the GS was bright and warm in most parts. The surrounding was a vast area of oil-palm plantation, mixed with mosaic microhabitats (agricultural area, open area, housing). Some possible reasons why swallows used GS were: (1) located at the migration route, (2) the abundance of perch sites, (3) warm temperatures, (4) sufficient lighting at night, (5) abundant insect food at the surrounding oil-palm.
Detection of microplastic existence trapped with periphyton in some rivers in The Regency of Sumedang
Authors: Pribadi T D K , Ati A S , Kusmoro J
Published: December 2023

Plastic pollution is not just a mere concern of marine pollution as this issue has become the concerning topics on terrestrial and freshwater environments, especially in the rivers, where many serve as a source of water for anthropogenic activities. Over the course of time, microplastics can be trapped in periphyton assemblages in the water column, especially by microalgae through their exo-polysaccharide components. This research was conducted to determine the presence of microplastics attached to the periphyton in relation to the abundance of periphyton aggregates in the Cipeles subwatershed, namely Cihonje River, Cileuleuy River, Cigede River, and Cipanyirapan River. The four sampling stations on each river section were purposively chosen based on the land use, with three repetition plots on each. The highest abundance of periphyton was encountered in the Cihonje river, while the lowest abundance was found in the Cipanyirapan River. Bacillariophyceae was the most present abundance class in all four rivers. The highest microplastics abundance was encountered in the Cileuleuy River, measuring, while the lowest abundance was found in the Cihonje River. The dominant type of microplastics is film, with black as the dominant colour. FTIR results from microplastic samples showed similarity to LDPE at the most.
Species composition of terrestrial gastropods in an urban conservation area: Cibinong Botanical Garden
Authors: Nurhayati P A , Prasetia A G , Nadhira F R , Aulia L N , Khoiriza I N , Nurinsiyah A S
Published: December 2023

A study conducted in the Cibinong Botanical Garden (CBG) aimed to reveal the diversity of terrestrial gastropods. The CBG is an ex-situ conservation area for plants and has become the green space in urban ecosystems. The area is located near the city centre and only a few kilometers away from the cement industry. Research of land snails in CBG was carried out in January 2020 and March 2023. Five plots of 100 m2 were observed using the time search method. In addition, 3L of soil and leaf litter per plot were sorted and sieved to collect micro snails. In a total of 131 specimens from four families were collected. We found a land snail species endemic to Java,Landouriasp. and invasive alien species,Allopeas gracile, Allopeas clavulinum, andLissachatina fulica. Based on iNEXT analysis, the number of species found in CBG had reached the maximum limit (SC=1). Shannon index value was 1.76 which implies low diversity. Further research is needed to understand environmental factors impacting land snail diversity in CBG. Regardless of the presence of invasive alien species, the CBG is a suitable habitat for land snails and plays an important role as a conservation oasis in urban ecosystems.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization of Scleria sumatrensis as a member of Cyperaceae family commonly known as non-mycorrhizal host plant
Authors: Sukarno N , Rahayu N D , Listiyowati S , Kramadibrata K , Subagya M , Nugraha T S , Tanio R , Ananto H
Published: December 2023

Cyperaceae is not strictly a non-mycorrhizal host plant family, and the mycorrhizal status of its member could be influenced by environmental conditions. Scleria sumatrensis, a member of Cyperaceae grown natively as a pioneer plant in a disturbed area, could be used as a source of native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) inoculum. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the mycorrhizal status of the S. sumatrensis grown natively in Martabe, North Sumatra, Indonesia, for revegetation purposes. The analysis was carried out by measuring root colonization characteristics and spore diversity in the rhizosphere soils of the S. sumatrensis. The roots were stained and measured for AM colonization characteristics. While the AMF spores were obtained using the wet sieving and decanting method and were identified based on morphological characteristics. The results indicated that the roots of S. sumatrensis were colonized by AMF in good-quality formed entry points, internal hyphae, arbuscules, and vesicles. The AMF associated with S. sumatrensis identified were relatively diverse; consisted of Acaulospora sp., Acaulospora cf. mellea, Glomus sp. 1, Glomus sp. 2, Glomus sp. 3, and Glomus sp. 4. This is the first report showing that S. sumatrensis is a mycotrophic plant in the family of Cyperaceae.
Estimation of genetic parameters and principal component analysis on garlic germplasm using augmented block design
Authors: Aswani N , Tihurua E F , Azmi C , Widoyanti
Published: December 2023

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the important herbs worldwide. Genetic studies on Indonesian garlic germplasm are still limited. We aimed to estimate genetic parameters and analyze the Principal Component of Indonesian local garlic accessions. Augmented Block Design with three replications (blocks) was used to characterize 20 accessions with 16 accessions as ‘Test’ and four check varieties. The research was carried out at Lembang, West Java (1250 m asl) from October 2022 until March 2023. The result showed that from block-adjusted ANOVA, tested accessions gave significant differences in number of leaves, leaf length, ratio between length and width of stomata, and yield per plot. A high genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) was observed on pseudo-stem diameter, root length, and yield per plot. It also showed that the number of leaves, the ratio between length and width of stomata, and yield per plot had high value of hBS (broad-sense heritability). Our study also showed that yield per plot had positive and significant (p<0.05) correlations with pseudo-stem diameter, leaf length, chlorophyll content, stomatal length, and root length. Principal Component Analysis showed that 82.75% of the total variance can be explained by the first three PCs viz. 57.19%, 15.27%, and 10.29% respectively.
Chitosan extracted from Cricket (Gryllus bimaculatus) induced bioactive compound and pigment content in Centella asiatica
Authors: Rusadi I S , Phonpoem W , Hamim
Published: December 2023

Pegagan (Centela asiatica) is a plant contains a diversity of secondary metabolites. Chitosan, which is primarily derived from crustaceans and some certain insects, has been proposed as an active elicitor that enhances plant bioactive compounds. This study aimed to investigate the effect of chitosan application extracted from cricket (Grylus bimaculatus) and commercial chitosan to induce bioactive compound and pigment content in C. asiatica. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Chitosan treatments were CN (without chitosan as control), CR (cricket chitosan at 50 ppm), and CM (commercial chitosan at 50 ppm), which were applied by spraying the leaves daily for 7 days. The changes in morphology, physiology, and biochemistry of the plants were analyzed after treatment. The result showed that foliar spray using cricket chitosan with 50 ppm doses induced the plants to have the highest bioactive compounds and pigment content. The enhancement levels of its bioactive compound and pigment content might contribute to the enhancement of its antioxidant activity levels of C. asiatica extract. This result highlights the remarkable potential of cricket (G. bimaculatus) as a promising alternative source of chitosan that can be used to stimulate bioactive compounds in C. asiatica.
Landfill leachate treatment using single and mixed freshwater cyanobacterial isolates
Authors: Razak W R W A , Daud A Y , Aziz A A , Sidik N J , Rasol R
Published: December 2023

The increasing volume of waste disposal and improper management of landfill has been contributing to the heavily polluted leachate. Local freshwater cyanobacteria were identified based on the polyphasic approach that combines morphological and molecular identification by the 16S rRNA gene sequencing method. The local cyanobacteria isolate (A1) was identified as the genus Cyanobacterium of the order Chroococcales. The A1 isolate together with identified cyanobacteria, Anabaena sp. was used to observe their effectiveness in remediating leachate pollution either as monoculture or in mixed culture. Prior to the phycoremediation, the characterization of leachate had been carried out. The biological oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH value, concentration of ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N), nitrite

(

N
O

2

−

)

, and nitrate

(

N
O

3

−

)

of the raw leachate determined were 22.37 mg/L, 58.33 mg/L, 7.84, 82.7 mg/L, 88.67mg/L and 89.43mg/L, respectively. The use of a single Anabaena sp. demonstrates the most effective in the removal of all contaminants that exist in the leachate. The removal of COD was the highest at 105.71% followed by BOD5 at 92.71% and NO3- at 82.09%. This finding suggested that in order to achieve optimum removal of BOD5, COD, NH3-N, NO2
- and NO3
- content in leachate sample, treatment by Anabaena sp. should be applied.
Insecticide activity from mangrove endophytic fungus isolate against larvae of fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster)
Authors: Djarot I N , Abraham S , Nuha  , Nastiti S A , Wijihastuti R S
Published: December 2023

The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) is one of the important pests for fruit and vegetable plants. However, pest control efforts are highly dependent on synthetic insecticides. This study aimed to determine the potential of mangrove endophytic fungi as bioinsecticides for D. melanogaster and to determine the insecticidal activity of secondary metabolites of mangrove endophytic fungi against D. melanogaster larvae. The study was conducted on five types of fungi extract isolated from R. mucronata, namely E. nidulans (BPPTCC 6035), E. nidulans (BPPTCC 6038), A. tamarii (BPPTCC 6037), A. versicolor (BPPTCC 6039), and A. oryzae (BPPTCC 6036) in 500 and 1000 ppm. The results showed that the A. versicolor (BPPTCC 6039) extract was the most toxic. Tukey’s HSD test showed that the A. versicolor (BPPTCC 6039) extract was most effectively used as a bioinsecticide for D. melanogaster larvae. All extracts do not have antifeedant compounds and showed activity to inhibit larvae growth. Therefore, in this study, the A. versicolor (BPPTCC 6039) extract had the most significant potential as a bioinsecticide for D. melanogaster larvae.
Changes in titrable acidity, pH, and reducing sugars of ganoderma kombucha with honey after the fermentation process
Authors: Elfirta R R , Ferdian P R , Setyawan R H , Saskiawan I , Mahani  , Nurjanah N , Pribadi A , Anggita S , Manullang E S D
Published: December 2023

Kombucha, a fermented tea beverage prepared with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) and sucrose as a carbon source, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. This study aimed to explore the effects of fermentation on the titrable acidity, pH, and reducing sugar content of Ganoderma kombucha with honey. In this study, we used Ganoderma lucidum as a substrate since it is a widely used natural medicinal and promotes health benefits. The sucrose commonly used in kombucha production was replaced with honey to enhance the functional qualities of the final product. Honey derived from Apis cerana and Heterotrigona itama is used in this study, with a ratio of Sugar and honey as follows: 100% honey, 50%:50% honey and sugar, and 100% sugar. The highest titrable acidity was found in kombucha with A. cerana honey (50%:50% honey and sugar) after fermentation i.e. 12.98±0.09%. Both of A .cerana (Sugar and honey 50:50 %) and H.itama (100 %) have the lowest pH after fermentation, i.e. 3.01±0.02 and 3.01±0.01 respectively. The reducing sugar was decreased after the fermentation process. The findings revealed an increase in titrable acidity during the fermentation process, accompanied by decreased pH and reducing sugar values.
Antioxidant effect of Spirulina platensis in lowering heart mda levels of white rats (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Amir M , Agustini N W S , Malau A P H , Gautama A
Published: December 2023

Spirulina platensis has potential as an antioxidant that can act as the main defense against free radicals in the body. This study aims to determine the antioxidant effect of Spirulina platensis in reducing MDA levels in the hearts of white rats (Rattus norvegicus) Sprague Dawley strain induced with CCl4. Twenty-five male white rats were divided into 5 groups: the normal control group (KN), the negative control group (KKN), the treatment group I at dose of 400 mg/kgBW (KP 1), the treatment group II at 800 mg/kgBW (KP 2), and the treatment group III at 1200 mg/kgBW (KP3). The treatment was given for 28 days. All groups except the normal group were induced by CCl4 1 ml/kgBW intraperitoneally on the 29th day. MDA levels were measured using the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) method. The data obtained were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, which showed a significant difference between groups (p<0.05). The results showed that the three doses of Spirulina platensis ethanol extract were able to reduce MDA levels significantly. Spirulina platensis at a dose of 800 mg/kgBW showed optimal results in reducing MDA levels in the hearts of male white rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by CCl4.
Primer design and optimization of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for specific detection of genes isoniazid-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Aulia O N , Putri D H , Chaidir L , Yusuf M , Kurniawan K , Faizal I
Published: December 2023

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), remains one of the leading causes of death in Indonesia. The limited diagnostic tools for TB, including Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB), contribute to the increasing number of cases. MDR-TB refers to TB strains resistant to Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs such as Isoniazid (INH). In response, the WHO has recommended the use of a rapid, equipment-free method called loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). This study aims to design primers and optimize the LAMP method for the detection of Isoniazid-resistant M. tuberculosis. The research integrates bioinformatics testing, laboratory experiments, and validation methods. The study successfully designed LAMP primers for detecting Isoniazid-resistant comprising three pairs of primers: F3, B3; FIP, BIP; and LF, LB. The optimization of the LAMP method involved temperature and time parameters. Five temperature treatments were tested, revealing an optimum temperature of 70°C. For time optimization, eight treatments were conducted, with an optimum time range of 25-30 minutes. The study concludes that the LAMP method differs from the PCR method due to the higher number of primers employed and LAMP requires only a single isothermal temperature. Additionally, the study achieved optimization of temperature and time for the LAMP method, facilitating the detection of Isoniazid-resistant MTB.
Comparative analysis of Lithocarpus chloroplast genomes reveals candidate DNA barcoding loci
Authors: Herliana L , Chairunisa  , Wahyuni  , Iryanto S B , Fauzan Y S A , Robiansyah I , Alkindi
Published: December 2023

Lithocarpus or stone oaks (Fagaceae) are ecologically and economically important trees in tropical and subtropical Asia as animal food sources, valuable timber trees, and natural bioactive components. Nonetheless, it was often challenging to identify Lithocarpus at the species level. Using a short sequence of specific regions in the genome, DNA barcoding offers a fast and cost-effective way to catalogue biodiversity and protect endangered species from illegal trades. However, universal barcodes were reported as not always applicable to all plant species. Thus, specific barcodes have been introduced based on the analysis of whole chloroplast genomes. This study aimed to identify specific barcodes for species-level differentiation within the Lithocarpus genus. Publicly available chloroplast genomes of eight Lithocarpus, three Quercus (Fagaceae) as ingroups and two Corylus (Betulaceae) as outgroups were compared. The number of protein-coding genes ranged between 80 – 87. Of 80 orthogroups identified, fifty-nine groups contained single-copy orthologous genes (SOGs). Only two genes showed high sequence variation: matK and ndhF. We recommend future investigation of these two genes as candidate barcoding loci to identify intraspecific variation at species and population levels. These barcodes will accelerate species identification of Lithocarpus from fresh, herbaria or degraded samples.
Responses of kecapi (Sandoricum koetjape Merr.) seedlings under different spectrum and intensity of light emitting diode
Authors: Defitrianida A W , Poerwanto R , Inoue E , Hapsari D P , Matra D D
Published: December 2023

Kecapi (Sandoricum koetjape Merr.) is a local fruit belonging to the Meliaceae family. The market price of this fruit is unstable due to inconsistent production and fruit quality. Kecapi’s cultivation system can be improved by modifying the environment in which LED (Light Emitting Diode) is used as artificial light. This study aims to determine changes in morphological, physiological, and anatomical responses to LED light’s different spectrum and intensity levels. The research used a two-factor, completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of an LED spectrum (purple and white) and two light intensities. The results showed the changes in morphological and physiological responses in high-intensity treatment with the white spectrum of LED (WH). The low intensity with the white spectrum of LED (WL) increased leaf chlorophyll content and photosynthesis rate. The anatomical response has in the low-intensity purple LED (PL) treatment. Increased leaf width occurred in high intensity with the purple LED spectrum (PH). Glucose content in the leaf decreased in all treatments, and increased fructose content in the leaf only occurred in the low-intensity purple spectrum of LED treatment.
Influence of scandium interlayer on the mechanical and metallurgical characteristics of friction stir welded AA1200-H14/ Sc/AA6061-T6
Authors: Arunkumar D , Vijay Sekar K S
Published: December 2023

The present investigation observed the friction stir welding (FSW) of joints made from the interfacial layered dissimilar AA1200-H14 and AA6061-T6 using scandium about the UTS, frictional heat, and metallurgical properties. The experimental examination is carried out utilising a three-level, three factors, Box-Behnken Design matrix (17 tests) in response surface approach, with the welding speed (WS), axial force (AF), and tool rotation speed (TRS) as the stated input parameters. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to evaluate the model’s dependability. Macroscopic and microscopic joint defects, as well as the alloy intermixture, have been found using optical microscopy and SEM. The SEM microstructural study exhibited that the generated grains are fine and equiaxed. The optimal WS (50 mm min−1), A−1F−1 (10 kN) and TRS (1750 rpm) settings produced the maximum terminal tensile strength (200.182 MPa) and perfect frictional heat observations. The inclusion of scandium interlayer as well as optimised parameters improved the joint’s mechanical characteristics and produced a fine-grained microstructure.
Structural, optical, and shielding properties of lead borate glasses doped with copper oxide
Authors: Bawazeer Omemh
Published: December 2023

Lead borate glasses of the system 25PbO-(75-x) B2O3-xCuO (x = 0, 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1) in mol.% were synthesized via the traditional melt quenching method abbreviated as (BPbCu0, BPbCu1, BPbCu2, and BPbCu3) respectively. XRD diffraction confirmed the amorphous nature of the samples. According to FTIR spectroscopy, the function groups (BO3 and BO4) and the fraction of boron tetrahedral units (N4) were determined. The density, molar volume, packing density, and some other physical parameters were calculated and discussed. The density was increased by incorporating CuO as a substitution for B2O3, while the molar volume was decreased. The ion concentrations of Cu, inter-nuclear distance, field strength, and polaron radius were also computed. The optical absorption study suggested that the copper ions exist in the Cu2+ and act as a modifier by increasing the disorder in the glass network. Hence, the present glass behaves as a bandpass filter in the UV–vis. region. The radiation shielding properties of the as-prepared samples were theoretically calculated using the Phy-X program at energies ranging from 0.015 to 1.5 MeV. The linear and mass attenuation coefficients, as well as the half-value layer (HVL) and exposure buildup factor (EBF), have been evaluated. The results revealed that shielding parameters are affected by CuO concentrations and photon energy. Based on the results presented in the manuscript, the glass sample with 0.1 mol% CuO doping (BPbCu3) showed the best properties overall for optical and radiation shielding applications. Specifically, BPbCu3 had the highest density, refractive index, optical dielectric constant, and radiation shielding parameters such as linear attenuation coefficient and half value layer among the glass samples. The addition of 0.1 mol% CuO introduced Cu2+ ions which acted as network modifiers, increasing the disorder in the glass structure. This in turn enhanced the optical bandgap as well as the shielding capabilities against gamma radiation.
Supersonic cracks break classical speed limit
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: December 2023

Tensile cracks in brittle elastic materials can spread faster than the speed of sound – and faster than the laws of classical fracture mechanics say is possible, according to a team from Israel.
UK rejoins Horizon Europe at last
Authors: Allen Michael , Banks Michael
Published: December 2023

Researchers are pleased the UK is back in the EU’s flagship Horizon Europe programme, but concerns remain that the country is out of the Euratom nuclear initiative, as Michael Allen reports.
India celebrates lunar and solar space success
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: December 2023

The Indian space agency, ISRO, successfully launched the country’s first mission to the Sun last month.
Ballet pioneer
Authors: Clark Jane
Published: December 2023

A reply to the careers article about the quantum physicist and ballet dancer Merritt Moore.
Multiple approaches to reduce reconstitution time of lyophilized drug products with high protein concentration
Authors: Zhang Xiaozhang , Zhou Ningning , Yang Chunsheng , Jin Zhaowei , Guo Jeremy
Published: December 2023

Background

Lyophilized drug products with high protein concentration often perform long reconstitution time, which is inconvenient for clinical use. The objective of this work is to achieve short reconstitution time with multiple and combined strategies.

Methods

Here, we describe the following approaches that lead to reduction of reconstitution time, including adding annealing step, decreasing headspace pressure, decreasing protein concentration with reducing diluent volume, increasing high surface-area-to-height ratio of the cakes, increasing frequency of swirling and diluent temperature.

Results

Among these strategies, reducing diluent volume to achieve high protein concentration and reducing headspace pressure show markedly reduction of reconstitution time. Moreover, we propose combined strategies to mitigate the reconstitution time, at the same time, to achieve same target dose in clinics.

Conclusions

Therefore, this paper provides insights on the application of multiple strategies to accelerate the reconstitution of lyophilized drug products with high concentration, and facilitates their widespread clinical application.
Assessment of exposure to sulfuric acid in workers using cleaning equipment operated with lead-acid batteries
Authors: Kim Myung-Hee , Kim Doo-Young , Jung Jin-Woo
Published: December 2023

Sulfuric acid, a constituent of lead-acid batteries, is an extremely hazardous substance, necessitating utmost caution. Unfortunately, many workers that utilize battery-operated equipment remain unaware of the potential exposure. This study aims to evaluate the potential exposure to sulfuric acid among workers employed by small companies associated with the operation of floor cleaning equipment powered by lead-acid batteries. Only cleaning equipment (hand-push and ride-on types) that required supplementation of lead-acid batteries with distilled water were targeted. Exposure measurement and analysis were performed according to the guidelines of NIOSH and including personal sampling and stationary sampling on the equipment. Exposure measurements indicated that workers were exposed to sulfuric acid. Additionally, the concentration level was slightly elevated in the stationary samples compared to personal samples. This study affirms that workers can experience exposure to sulfuric acid, even in the absence of direct handling of the substance. Consequently, there is a need to recognize and mitigate the potential risks.
Genomic data reveal strong differentiation and reduced genetic diversity in island golden eagle populations
Authors: Sato Yu , Humble Emily , Ogden Rob
Published: December 2023

Understanding population structure and the extent and distribution of genetic diversity are recognized as central issues in endangered species research, with broad implications for effective conservation management. Advances in whole genome sequencing techniques provide greater resolution of genome-wide genetic diversity and inbreeding. Subspecies of golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) in Scotland (A. c. chrysaetos) and Japan (A. c. japonica) are endangered; it is therefore important to understand genetic diversity and inbreeding of these small island populations to increase the chances of conservation success. We investigated this using whole genome sequencing data from golden eagles in Scotland, continental Europe, Japan, and the USA. Following determination of population genetic structure, analysis of heterozygosity and nucleotide diversity revealed reduced levels of genetic diversity together with runs of homozygosity, suggesting evidence of inbreeding attributable to recent shared parental ancestry in the island populations. These results highlight the need to consider genetic reinforcement of small isolated golden eagle populations from neighbouring outbred populations, alongside existing efforts to boost population size through within-island conservation translocations and captive breeding programmes.
Bi-objective optimal active and reactive power flow management in grid-connected AC/DC hybrid microgrids using metaheuristic–PSO
Authors: Charadi Ssadik , Chakir Houssam Eddine , Redouane Abdelbari , El Hasnaoui Abdennebi , Et-taoussi Mehdi
Published: December 2023

In the context of evolving energy needs and environmental concerns, efficient management of distributed energy resources within microgrids has gained prominence. This paper addresses the optimization of power flow management in a hybrid AC/DC microgrid through an energy management system driven by particle swarm optimization. Unlike traditional approaches that focus solely on active power distribution, our energy management system optimizes both active and reactive power allocation among sources. By leveraging 24-hour-ahead forecasting data encompassing load predictions, tariff rates and weather conditions, our strategy ensures an economically and environmentally optimized microgrid operation. Our proposed energy management system has dual objectives: minimizing costs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Through optimized operation of polluting sources and efficient utilization of the energy storage system, our approach achieved significant cost savings of ~15% compared with the genetic algorithm counterpart. This was largely attributed to the streamlined operation of the gas turbine system, which reduced fuel consumption and associated expenses. Moreover, particle swarm optimization maintained the efficiency of the gas turbine by operating at ~80% of its nominal power, effectively lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The effectiveness of our proposed strategy is validated through simulations conducted using the MATLAB® software environment.
The Effect of China’s Overseas Engineering Projects on National Image: Empirical Analysis Based on Global Survey Data
Authors: Qi Zhen , Zhou Yixiao , Yang Gongyan
Published: December 2023

Overseas engineering projects (OEPs) significantly facilitate China’s participation in global politics and economy. Based on Pew Global Surveys from 2005 to 2019, this study investigates the relationship between China’s OEP and the country’s national image. We find that OEPs have a positive impact in this regard, but most significantly in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. Specifically, China’s image gains the most positive impact from transportation and energy projects and, to the greatest extent, from those powered by financial assistance rather than by imported Chinese workers. Such a positive effect is, in addition, most pronounced in low- and middle-income countries with a low level of national governance, while it is negligible in states that are US allies. This study affords a deeper understanding of the spillover effects of overseas economic activities at both the political and social levels.
A review of elasmobranch catch-and-release science: synthesis of current knowledge, implications for best practice and future research directions
Authors: Cameron Luke W J , Roche William K , Beckett Katy , Payne Nicholas L
Published: December 2023

Until relatively recently commercial fisheries have been considered the main driving factor for elasmobranch population declines. However, this belief has begun to shift with the realization that recreational elasmobranch catches may equal or exceed commercial catches in some regions. Many recreational angling fisheries for elasmobranchs involve high participation in catch-and-release angling practices. However, high release rates may not necessarily equate to high survival rates. Therefore, to assist accurate assessment of the potential impact of recreational angling on elasmobranchs, we attempted to summarize and integrate currently available information on specific risk factors associated with recreational angling, alongside associated mortality rates, as well as information on angler behaviour as it relates to identified risk factors. We categorized the major angling-related effects into two groups: injury-induced effects; and biochemical disruption-induced effects; providing a summary of each group and outlining the main lethal and sub-lethal outcomes stemming from these. These outcomes include immediate and delayed post-release mortality, behavioural recovery periods (which may in-turn confer increased predation risks), chronic health impacts and capture-induced parturition and abortion. Additionally, we detailed a range of angling practices and equipment, including hook-type, hook removal and emersion (i.e. air exposure), as well as inter- and intra-specific factors, including aerobic scope, respiratory mode, body size and species-specific behaviours, which are likely to influence injury and/or mortality rates and should therefore be considered when assessing angling-related impacts. We then utilized these data to provide a range of actionable recommendations for both anglers and policymakers which would serve to reduce the population-level impact of recreational angling on these enigmatic animals.
Discordance Between Inflammatory Bowel Disease Specialists and Insurance Authorization Denials—A Survey of Specific Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment Scenarios
Authors: Naritsin Anastasia , Mehta Neev , Pellish Randall
Published: December 2023

Background

Prior authorizations are generally required by insurers for gastroenterologists to prescribe biologics and small-molecule drugs to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Authorization denials occur in a wide variety of clinical scenarios, including denials of standard and nonstandard medication dosing.

Methods

We performed a national cross-sectional survey on a broad variety of specific clinical scenarios to assess experience and opinions on whether or not insurance authorization denials are in accordance with clinical expertise.

Results

Eighty-four gastroenterologists completed the survey. Denial experience was common for infliximab dose modifications, vedolizumab dose modifications, ustekinumab first-time therapy, and maintenance dosing. The bulk of disagreement with authorization denials involved scenarios of dose escalation and re-induction guided by both loss of clinical response and/or therapeutic drug monitoring, denial of re-authorizations of stable dosing, and use of non-anti-TNFs in specific patient populations including the elderly and patients with multiple comorbidities. Respondents unanimously agreed that insurance companies do not play an adequate role in helping patients obtain PA. Furthermore, most of the respondents agree that to decrease the burden of the PA process, peer–peer processes should be between other IBD-trained providers who understand these complex treatment strategies.

Conclusions

Our cross-sectional survey highlights the degree of discordance in clinical decision-making between insurers and gastroenterologists. Further engagement between gastroenterologists and insurers is needed to foster common understanding on these discordant authorization denials in these real-world clinical IBD scenarios.
Homicide among Indigenous females in North Carolina: a comparison of publicly generated data and violent death reporting system
Authors: Hudhud Muhammad , Proescholdbell Scott , Norwood Tammy , Cavalier-Keck Crystal , Bell Ronny A
Published: December 2023

Like other minoritized populations, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) females experience disparate morbidity and mortality outcomes to that of the general US population. This study identified discrepancies in reporting of AI/AN female decedents between the North Carolina Violent Death Reporting System (NC-VDRS) and an online, user-generated database. Female AI/AN decedent data of all ages were collected from the NC-VDRS and compared against that of the publicly available North Carolina Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW NC) database for the study period, 2004–2019. Twenty-four of the 72 cases matched between data systems (33.3%). Substantive differences between the NC-VDRS and the MMIW NC database were found. Future efforts should be directed towards supporting Indigenous communities with the comprehensive data the NC-VDRS can provide. This paper highlights statewide public health systems like the NC-VDRS supporting community efforts to understand, advocate for, and disseminate information on MMIW.
IAA-miR164a-NAC100L1 module mediates symbiotic incompatibility of cucumber/pumpkin grafted seedlings through regulating callose deposition
Authors: Yuan Mingzhu , Jin Tong , Wu Jianqiang , Li Lan , Chen Guangling , Chen Jiaqi , Wang Yu , Sun Jin
Published: December 2023

Grafting is one of the key technologies to overcome the obstacles of continuous cropping, and improve crop yield and quality. However, the symbiotic incompatibility between rootstock and scion affects the normal growth and development of grafted seedlings after survival. The specific molecular regulation mechanism of graft incompatibility is still largely unclear. In this study, we found that the IAA-miR164a-NAC100L1 module induced callose deposition to mediate the symbiotic incompatibility of cucumber/pumpkin grafted seedlings. The incompatible combination (IG) grafting interface accumulated more callose, and the activity of callose synthase (CmCalS1) and IAA content were significantly higher than in the compatible combination (CG). Treatment with IAA polar transport inhibitor in the root of the IG plants decreased CmCalS activity and callose content. Furthermore, IAA negatively regulated the expression of Cm-miR164a, which directly targeted cleavage of CmNAC100L1. Interestingly, CmNAC100L1 interacted with CmCalS1 to regulate its activity. Further analysis showed that the interaction between CmNAC100L1 and CmCalS1 increased the activity of CmCalS1 in the IG plants but decreased it in the CG plants. Point mutation analysis revealed that threonine at the 57th position of CmCalS1 protein played a critical role to maintain its enzyme activity in the incompatible rootstock. Thus, IAA inhibited the expression of Cm-miR164a to elevate the expression of CmNAC100L1, which promoted CmNAC100L1 interaction with CmCalS1 to enhance CmCalS1 activity, resulting in callose deposition and symbiotic incompatibility of cucumber/pumpkin grafted seedlings.
Relative size and chemical information impact mixed-sex contests in the crayfish Faxonius rusticus Girard, 1852 (Decapoda: Astacidea: Cambaridae)
Authors: Wofford-Mares Sarah J , Moore Paul A
Published: December 2023

Male and female differences in contest strategies present a valuable exploration of varied access to relevant ecological information. Crayfish studies have revealed that males and females likely use different sources of information to dictate contest persistence and the difference becomes most apparent in mixed-sex contests. We examined the role of chemical information in mixed-sex contest dynamics and assessment by randomly pairing mixed-sex pairs that were either size-matched or size asymmetric. The lesion treatments consisted of eliminating olfactory cells on the antennules, the main organ for chemical detection in crayfishes. Dyads were classified as control (both intact), female-lesioned (females lesioned, males intact), or male-lesioned (females intact, males lesioned). Statistical analysis revealed that sex-based size difference, lesion treatment, and winner’s sex dictated contest duration. Regressions did not reveal evidence of one particular assessment strategy for control dyads, but male- and female-lesioned contests demonstrated weak relationships indicative of a possible self-assessment strategy. Behavioral network analyses indicated that chemical information is important for transitions between behavioral states and that the sexes use this information differentially. We suggest chemical information is important for both males and females in contest assessment, but the information contained in the signal or how the participants use the information for assessment likely differs across the sexes.
Big opportunities for tiny bugs: rush to boost laying hen performance using black soldier fly larvae meal
Authors: Wamai Linus K , Munga Leonard M , Osuga Isaac M , Munguti Jonathan M , Subramanian Sevgan , Kidoido Michael K , Ghemoh Janice C , Mwendia Charles M , Tanga Chrysantus M
Published: December 2023

Rising feed cost challenges due to expensive conventional protein sources continue to make headlines in Africa causing drops in profit margins. We assessed the impact of insect (Hermetia illucens Linnaeus larvae meal, HILM) protein as a substitute for soybean meal and sunflower seed cake on layer chicken performance and profitability. Our results showed that apart from the growers, chicks (12.37 g/bird) and layer hens (2.02 g/bird) fed diets with 75% HILM inclusion levels had significantly higher average daily weight gain. The average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) varied significantly when the chicks and layer hens were provided with the HILM-based diets. For the chicks and layer hens, the lowest ADFI and FCR were observed in birds subjected to diets with 75% and 100% HILM compared to the growers fed diets with 50% HILM. Significantly higher egg production was observed for layer hens fed diets containing 75% of HILM throughout the first (87.41%) and second (83.05%) phase production cycles. Layer hens fed HILM-based diets had a 3–10% increase in egg laying percentage. There was higher profit margins when birds were fed diets containing 75% of HILM (~1.83 and 5.98 US$ per bird), which mirrored the return on investment estimated at 63.95% and 33.36% for the pullets (growers) and laying hen, respectively. Our findings demonstrate that diets with 75% HILM provided optimum growth performance, reduced feeding costs, increased weight gain and egg production as well as improved economic returns for commercial on-farm poultry production systems.
Degree-days and off-host longevity of cattle fever ticks, Boophilus spp. (Acari: Ixodidae) in south Texas pastures
Authors: Arocho Rosario Charluz M , Leal-Galvan Brenda , Thomas Donald B
Published: December 2023

Cattle fever ticks, Boophilus microplus (Canestrini) and Boophilus annulatus (Say), are native to Eurasia and have invaded the New World as vectors of bovine Babesiosis. Due to severe losses in livestock production, an eradication program by the USDA was established. Premises infested with Boophilus ticks are subject to regulatory oversight that includes acaricide treatment and quarantine. The quarantine duration varies between summer through winter and is based on the available information on the persistence of the off-host stages in pastures far from south Texas. The objective of this study was to assess the specific effect of thermal stress measured in degree-days on the longevity of B. annulatus and B. microplus off-host stages in south Texas pastures. Our results demonstrate that the longest off-host persistence for B. annulatus was 142 days under canopied habitat in the winter and 130 days in the summer. On the other hand, B. microplus off-host persistence was 113 days under canopy and 103 days in exposed habitat, both in winter. The results indicate that temperature was a key variable that prolonged the survival of B. annulatus but not B. microplus. In areas such as south Texas at the northernmost extent of B. microplus range, where mild winters prevail, we found a maximum persistence of less than 4 months (113 days), very close to the previous published record of 116 days. A reduction in the Texas pasture quarantine period from 9 months to 6 months would be justified for this species.
Assessing the impact of areal unit selection and the modifiable areal unit problem on associative statistics between cases of tick-borne disease and entomological indices
Authors: O’Connor Collin , Prusinski Melissa A , Aldstadt Jared , Falco Richard C , Oliver JoAnne , Haight Jamie , Tober Keith , Sporn Lee Ann , White Jennifer , Brisson Dustin , Backenson P Bryon
Published: December 2023

The modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP) is a cause of statistical and visual bias when aggregating data according to spatial units, particularly when spatial units may be changed arbitrarily. The MAUP is a concern in vector-borne disease research when entomological metrics gathered from point-level sampling data are related to epidemiological data aggregated to administrative units like counties or ZIP Codes. Here, we assess the statistical impact of the MAUP when calculating correlations between randomly aggregated cases of anaplasmosis in New York State during 2017 and a geostatistical layer of an entomological risk index for Anaplasma phagocytophilum in blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis Say, Acari: Ixodidae) collected during the fall of 2017. Correlations were also calculated using various administrative boundaries for comparison. We also demonstrate the impact of the MAUP on data visualization using choropleth maps and offer pycnophylactic interpolation as an alternative. Polygon simulations indicate that increasing the number of polygons decreases correlation coefficients and their variability. Correlation coefficients calculated using ZIP Code tabulation area and Census tract polygons were beyond 4 standard deviations from the mean of the simulated correlation coefficients. These results indicate that using smaller polygons may not best incorporate the geographical context of the tick-borne disease system, despite the tendency of researchers to strive for more granular spatial data and associations.
Density predictive model for an outbreak in adult female Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Japan
Authors: Watanabe Satoru , Nakane Kunihiko , Kitahara Yugo , Nishihara Nanami , Nomura Hiroshi , Fukase Fumiaki , Uno Kohei , Kondo Takaaki , Ueyama Jun
Published: December 2023

We developed a predictive model for activities and outbreaks of female Aedes albopictus Skuse, using meteorological data. The number of Ae. albopictus collected from human bait-sweep net collection (h-BNC) surveillance, conducted by the local government between 2010 and 2019 in Japan, was adopted as a mosquito-activity indicator. The best model was composed of the backward cumulative and backward moving mean of meteorological data (parameters that were measured daily include mean, maximum, and minimum temperature, mean humidity, amount of precipitation, maximum wind speed, and sunshine hours). The root mean squared error (RMSE) and the coefficient of determination (R2) of the best model for the test set, which was not included in the training dataset, were 1.33 and 0.74, respectively. The best model was applied to predict the number of Ae. albopictus obtained from our own h-BNC surveillance in Okazaki City, Japan. RMSE and R2 of the results were 1.17 and 0.92, respectively. The present model, using publicly available meteorological values, can predict the collection number of adult Ae. albopictus using h-BNC surveillance thereby providing information to control mosquito activities and outbreaks. Therefore, it may be possible to mitigate the risk of mosquito-borne infections and secondary adverse effects of mosquito bites, such as infectious impetigo and deterioration of the quality of life.