bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization Extraction of Xylocarpus granatum Stem as Antioxidant and Antiglycation
Authors: Sapitri Eka Winarni , Batubara Irmanida , Syafitri Utami Dyah
Published: August 2021

Xylocarpus granatum is an Indonesian plant that has bioactives content of phenols and high antioxidant activity on it. The aim of this research was to determine the optimum condition maceration for Xylocarpus granatum stem as antioxidant and antiglycation. The optimum conditions of maceration were effected by the extraction variables (concentration, sample/solvent ratio, extraction time) were evaluated using surface response method. The optimum condition was determined from the recovery of the respons. The optimum condition of maceration is predicted to be achieved when the solvent concentration is 52.25%, the extraction time is 15.92 hours, sample/solvent ratio is 1 g/9 ml with the response (yield, total phenol content, flavonoid, inhibition for 2,2’-diphenylpicryl hydrazyl, capacity of 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and inhibition antiglycation were 12.81%, 1.95 mg of gallic acid/g extract, 62.33 μg quercetin/g extract, 41.11%, 0.71 TEAC, and 112.33%, respectively). Optimization extraction conditions shows that the extraction variables have significant effect on respons so it can reduce the extraction time, economic, and produce high bioactivite constituens.
Ecology and Conservation of the Endangered Banteng (Bos javanicus) in Indonesia Tropical Lowland Forest
Authors: Rahman Dede Aulia , Herliansyah Riki , Rianti Puji , Rahmat Ujang Mamat , Firdaus Asep Yayus , Syamsudin Mochamad
Published: August 2021

Banteng, Bos javanicus, as wild cattle is a vital and importance source of germplasm in Indonesia. Various human activities currently threaten their conservation status. Nonetheless, no long-term monitoring programmes are in place for this species. Using distribution point and statistical analysis based on 46,116 camera trap days from December 2015 to January 2017, we aimed to provide habitat preferences, activity patterns and ecological data for banteng population in Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP). It is the largest population of banteng in Indonesia and is living in a limited habitat area. According to the best occupancy model, the most suitable areas for this species were the secondary forest located at the center portion of UKNP. The presence of the invasive cluster sugar palm, Arenga obtusifolia, in dry season provides additional alternative food for banteng when its main food is scarcer in the forest. Banteng was cathemeral all year round, with the proportion of cathemeral records and the recording rate did not change with the protection of the level area, moon phase or season. To reduce the probability of encountering predators, banteng avoided the space use of dholes. Selection and avoidance of habitats was stronger than avoidance of the predator activity areas. Habitat competition from domestic cattle which grazed illegally in the national park appears to be a problem to the species since zoonosis appears from domestic cattle to banteng. Therefore, eﬀective law enforcement and an adequate conservation strategy are required to eliminate the impacts of both direct and indirect threats.
In vitro and In vivo Antiplasmodial of Stem Bark Extract of Garcinia husor
Authors: Kainama Healthy , Fatmawati Sri , Santoso Mardi , Kakisina Pieter , Ersam Taslim
Published: August 2021

Garcinia husor is one of the folk medicines in Maluku-Indonesia. This species has been used for the treatmet of Malaria disease. The phytochemical contents and antiplasmodial activity not reported yet. In this study we evaluated the quantitative phytochemicals, in vitro and in vivo antiplasmodial activity of stem bark ethyl acetate extract. In vitro assay was done using P. falciparum 3D7 strain sensitive of chloroquine. For in vivo analysis, four groups of M. musculus were infected by P. berghei and their parasitemia levels were for 7 days of treatment with ethyl acetate extract; hematological and biochemical parameter were analyzed at the end of experiment. The result showed ethyl acetate extract with the TPC (169.47 mg GAE/100 g ±0.61) and TPC (167.37 mg QE/100 g ±1.05) was active against P. falciparum 3D7 strain (IC50 value of 0.31±0.43 μg/ml). The animal treated with extract showed suppression of parasitemia to 87.57±1.41% compared with the P. berghei infected-mice (negative control), ED50 value of 22.30 mg/kg BW. The dose of extract in 200 mg/kg BW was reduce parasitemia of infected mice with P. berghei more potential. The ethyl acetate of the stem bark G. husor with has antiplasmodial properties and future investigation are necessary to elucidate its mechanism of action.
Biodegradation of 1,1,1-Trichloro-2,2-bis (4-chlorophenyl) ethane (DDT) by Mixed Cultures of White-Rot Fungus Ganoderma lingzhi and Bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Boelan Erly Grizca , Purnomo Adi Setyo
Published: August 2021

This study investigated the biodegradation of 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis (4-chlorophenyl) ethane (DDT) by mixed cultures white-rot fungus Ganoderma lingzhi BMC 9057 and bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Cultures bacteria P. aeruginosa with various volumes 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 ml (1 ml ≈ 1.53 x 109 bacteria cells/ml cultures) was added into 10 ml G. lingzhi cultures for degrading DDT. After 7 d incubation, DDT was degraded about 100% with addition of 5, 7, and 10 ml of P. aeruginosa culture into G. lingzhi. Two metabolites; 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis (4-chlorophenyl) ethane (DDD) and 1-chloro,2-2-bis (4-chlorophenyl) ethylene (DDMU) were detected from mixed cultures G. lingzhi and P. aeruginosa as metabolite products of DDT. This research indicated that mixed cultures of whiterot fungus G. lingzhi and P. aeruginosa could be used to degrade DDT.
Cytotoxic Activity of Alpinumisoflavone from Erythrina poeppigiana (Leguminosae) Against Colon Cancer (WiDr), Cervical Cancer (Hela), and Hepatoma Cancer (HepG2) Cells
Authors: Herlina Tati , Haraswati Nayla , Apriani Riza , Nishinarizki Vicki , Gaffar Shabarni , Supratman Unang
Published: August 2021

Cancer is the second cause of death after cardiovascular diseases in the world. Anticancer prevention used can cause undesirable things. Flavonoids are secondary metabolites derived from natural products that are useful for anticancer treatment. This study was performed to observe the cytotoxic activity of alpinumisoﬂavone from Erythrina poeppigiana, toward cervical cancer (Hela), colon cancer (WiDr), and hepatoma cancer (HepG2) cells. The cytotoxic activity of alpinumisoﬂavone was tested using (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The percentage of cell mortality was calculated and the IC50 was calculated using probit analysis. The result shown that alpinumisoﬂavone has antiproliferative eﬀect to colon cancer (WiDr), cervical cancer (Hela), and hepatoma cancer (HepG2) cells with the value of IC50 are 5.63, 7.18, and 18.08 µg/ml, respectively. Based on the value of IC50 alpinumisoﬂavone is very cytotoxic to colon cancer WiDr cell.
Antimicrobial Activity of Sonneratia ovata Backer
Authors: Khumaidah Laili , Purnomo Adi Setyo , Fatmawati Sri
Published: August 2021

Sonneratia, a genus of mangroves from family Lythraceae, is reported for number of high biological activity including antimicrobial. Sonneratia ovata Backer is one of the species which traditionally used by Indonesian people for the treatment of some diseases. In this research, the investigation about biological activity of S. ovata Backer as anti-microbial has been performed. The methanol extract of S. ovata Backer is highly potential as antimicrobial against gram positive bacteria, S. aureus, with IC50 value of 7.7 μg/ml which is higher than of Ampicillin as positive control with IC50 value of 37.8 μg/ml. Furthermore, stigmasterol one of the major compound of S. ovata Backer has been isolated from the methanol extract of the stem bark of S. ovata Backer. Therefore, S. ovata Backer is proven to have high activity as antimicrobial, and highly potential to be a new source of antimicrobial agent.
Stability and Vulnerability of Bird Flocking Behaviour: A Mathematical Analysis
Authors: Erfianto Bayu , Muchtadi-Alamsyah Intan
Published: August 2021

Given a large number of birds in the flock, we mathematically investigate the mechanism the birds move in a collective behavior. We assume that each bird is able to know its position and velocity of other birds within a radius of communication. Thus, to be able to fly in the flock, a bird has to adjust its position and velocity according to his neighbors. For this purpose, first of all, we analyze how the connectedness of the bird interaction network affects the cohesion of the stable bird flock. We further analyze a condition when the flock is vulnerable, which is mathematically indicated by means of the presence of an articulation point in bird communication network.
Pre-treatment and Suitable Reagent Enabled a Reliable and Consistent for Molecular Detection of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (Foc4)
Authors: Karmawan Listya Utami , Dwivany Fenny Martha , Esyanti Rizkita Rachmi , Aryantha I Nyoman Pugeg
Published: August 2021

Fusarium wilt which is caused by the soil-borne fungus, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense (Foc), is one of important diseases in banana plant. Foc tropical race 4 (Foc4) is the most pathogenic race which could infect various banana cultivars including Cavendish cultivar which was previously considered as resistant cultivar. Molecular detection of Foc using PCR analysis is indispensable to determine the race of Foc. We demonstrate a faster DNA isolation procedure described in previous method by substituting sodium acetate precipitation with ammonium acetate precipitation without affecting the result. Based on our experience, some fungal genomes were troublesome to be amplified. We suggested pre-treatment step prior to amplification procedure by incubating fungal DNA in 65°C for 10 minutes for any samples of fungal genome, including stubborn samples, before mixing into PCR mix reagent. PCR reagents should be tested for stubborn samples since some of the reagents were unable to amplify the desired DNA fragment. Pre-treatment and the choice of robust PCR reagent should be taken into consideration for a reliable and consistent Foc4 molecular detection result.
Localization of Alkaloid and Other Secondary Metabolites in Cinchona ledgeriana Moens: Anatomical and Histochemical Studies on Fresh Tissues and Cultured Cells
Authors: Pratiwi Dian Rahma , Sulistyaningsih Yohana Caecilia , Ratnadewi Diah
Published: August 2021

Cinchona ledgeriana produces several secondary metabolites. The main quinoline alkaloid, quinine that is widely used as an antimalarial drug, is most commonly extracted from the bark of Cinchona, and its leaves contain several other metabolites. Many studies have revealed that cell culture of Cinchona also produces quinine. Nevertheless, the sites of secondary metabolites accumulation are still elusive. This study is aimed at describing specific anatomical structures where alkaloids and some other secondary metabolites are accumulated as well as their localization in leaves and barks of C. ledgeriana, compared to those found in cultured cells. Fresh leaves and barks, and cells of C. ledgeriana were used for anatomical observation and histochemical tests. It was found that these plant parts have specialized structures, idioblast cells with elliptical- and spherical-shapes, scattered in leaf hypodermis, stem cortex, and secondary phloem. Unspecialized structures such as epidermis and palisade mesophyll tissues were also found accumulating some metabolites. Histochemical tests showed that bark and leaves contained alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic, and lipophilic compounds. Cultured cells presented positive results for alkaloids and terpenoids.
Rhizopus Rotting on Agricultural Products in Jakarta
Authors: Hartanti Anastasia Tatik , Raharjo Amelia , Gunawan Agustin Wydia
Published: August 2021

Agricultural products may easily perish if they are not well taken care of during postharvest treatment. One of the main causes in damaged products is the biological contamination of pathogenic fungi, such as Rhizopus spp. that gives rise to Rhizopus rot symptoms. The purpose of this research was to isolate Rhizopus spp. from different agricultural products showing Rhizopus rot symptoms as well as to identify them. Rhizopus pure cultures were isolated on potato dextrose agar.  Identification was done through molecular techniques using PhytopureTM DNA Extraction Kit and Maxwell® RSC Plant DNA Kit for DNA isolation, internal transcribed spacer (ITS4 and ITS5) as primers for amplification, and molecular evolutionary genetics analysis 7 (MEGA7) for the reconstruction of phylogenetic tree from sequence result. The phylogenetic tree using Maximum Likelihood statistics with 1,000 replications of bootstrap test showed five strains, namely AR9, AR10, AR11, AR13, and AR14, which belong to R. delemar, and the other seven remaining strains, AR1-AR7 belong to R. stolonifer. Identification was clarified with morphological and physiological data using Rhizopus growth at temperature control of 33 and 42°C as well as microscopic observation involving rhizoid, columella, measurement of sporangiospores, and sporangiophores.
Adaptation Selection of Plants for Utilization in Phytoremediation of Soil Contaminated by Crude Oil
Authors: Salim Fadliah , Setiadi Yadi , Sopandie Didy , Yani Mohamad
Published: August 2021

The research on adaptation selection for utilization in phytoremediation of soil contaminated by crude oil using four type plants, such as Helianthus annuus, Paspalum conjugatum, Sorghum bicolor, and Tagetes erecta were conducted. The adaptability of four types of plants  on crude oil contaminated soil at total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) level at 0, 3, and 6% were observed and evaluated to their morphological and anatomical responses. Parameters observed were vegetative growth of plants including growth precentage, plant height, number of leaves, root length, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, root/shoot ratio, total dry weight, and stomatal density for 9 weeks cultivation in screen house. The results show that increasing in TPH level caused in significant reductions on morphological of four plants, such as percentage of plant growth, plant height, number of leaves, root length, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, and total dry weight. In contrast, the increasing in TPH level caused to increasing in root/shoot ratio. The four types of plants studied were effective to be used as plants for phytoremediation of petroleum contaminated soil. The plants of P. conjugatum and S. bicolor are recommended as phytoremediators for further studies.
Banana Flower-Insect Interaction: Alpha-Pinene as Potential Attractant for the Insect Vector of Banana Blood Disease
Authors: Masriany Masriany , Esyanti Rizkita R. , Dwivany Fenny M. , Anggraeni Tjandra
Published: August 2021

Volatile metabolites are produced by plants for self-defense and as communication mediators with the environment. Terpenes are volatiles emitted as odorant cues for herbivores and microorganisms. This study was aimed to investigate volatile metabolites produced by banana flowers that attract insect vectors of BBD. The volatile metabolites from banana flowers were extracted by headspace-solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). It was apparent that the concentrations of the metabolite alpha-pinene gradually increased from the first to the the third stage. Comparison of metabolites produced by symptomatic banana male flowers for BBD infection with non-symptomatic ones showed that the concentration of alpha-pinene was higher in symptomatic male flowers. In addition, preference for alpha-pinene was tested on three insect vector species (Rhodesiella bhutanensis, Drosophila sp., and Musca sp.), analyzed by M. Anova p<0.001, F(1.5) =12.539 and Duncan test. Results showed that the insect vectors were mostly attracted to 20 µl volume of alpha-pinene compared to the other volumes and that alpha-pinene functioned as an attractant to these insects. This research is important for the formulation of attractants for insect vectors of BBD to control transmission of banana blood disease.
Maggot Meal (Hermetia illucens) Substitution on Fish Meal as Source of Animal Protein to Growth, Feed Utilization Efficiency, and Survival Rate of Milkfish (Chanos chanos)
Authors: Herawati Vivi Endar , Pinandoyo Pinandoyo , Windarto Seto , Hariyadi Putut , Hutabarat Johannes , Darmanto YS , Rismaningsih Nurmanita , Prayitno Slamet Budi , Radjasa Ocky Karna
Published: August 2021

High protein content in maggot is one of the advantages for increasing fish growth through artificial feed. This study aimed to find the best optimization and feed formulation for fish meal substitution with maggot meal on growth, feed utilization efficiency, and survival rate of milkfish (C. chanos). Milkfish (C. chanos) with an average weight of 0.62±0.01 gram/fish was used as test fish. Feeding is carried out at 07.00 a.m., 12.00 p.m., and 17:00 p.m. through fixed feeding rate method. The tested fish was kept for 42 days with a stocking density of 1 fish/l. The experimental design used was a completely randomized design with five treatments and three replications. The treatments which had been done were fish meal substitution with maggot meal as follows: A (0%), B (25%), C (50%), D (75%), and E (100%). The research parameters included total feed consumption (TFC), feed utilization efficiency (FUE), protein efficiency ratio (PER), relative growth rate (RGR), survival rate (SR), and water quality. The results showed that the fish meal substitution with maggot meal had a significant effect (p<0.05) on FUE, PER, RGR and had no significant effect (p>0.05) on TFC and SR. The best treatment of each treatment is in treatment C with a composition of 50% maggot meal substitution on fish meal which resulted in a TFC value of 40.17±4.58, FUE of 27.51±0.77, PER of 0.83±0.03%, and RGR of 2.34±0.10.
Screening of Endophytic Bacteria as Biocontrol Agents Against Bacteria Leaf Blight (Xanthomonas oryzae)
Authors: Halim Rashidah Abd , Hasan Nor'Aishah , Ramachandran Kogeethavani
Published: August 2021

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) is one of major threats in rice production as it can cause 100% yield loss. Concern on the environment and human health has led an attempt to replace existing methods of chemical control and avoid extensive use of bactericides by using endophytic bacteria. The present study was conducted to screen and characterize bacteria isolated from different sources that has potential as antagonistic bacteria against Xanthomonas oryzaepv. oryzae (Xoo), the causal agent of bacterial leaf blight of paddy. Two hundred and thirty-three endophytic bacteria were successfully isolated from roots and leaves from paddy field. Only 17 endophytic bacterial isolates showed positive antagonistic activity indicated by inhibition zone around bacterial colony against Xoo on nutrient agar plate with 2 endophytic isolates (BCA 3 and BCA 12) showed highest inhibitory effect with 35±0.00 mm in diameter. Molecular identification by 16S rRNA amplification successfully identified the antagonistic endophytic bacteria as Pseudomonas fluorescensand Geobacillus thermoparaffinivorans. Findings in this study revealed the biocontrol abilities of isolated endophytes as an excellent option to be used by agriculture sectors to have sustainable environment.
Mammalian Diversity of Gunung Ledang, Johor, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Bakri Faiznur Ain Ahmad , Yasuda Masatoshi , Mohamed Maryati , Sharuddin Adlil Ikram , Hambar Muhazam Syah
Published: August 2021

Mammals play a crucial role for the biotic processes of the rainforest ecosystem. Studying their behaviour and biology are vital to fully understand the jigsaw of rainforest dynamics. This study was made to update the diversity checklist of mammals in Gunung Ledang. This study was done in Taman Negara Johor; Gunung Ledang (2.37°N, 102.60°E) where it is known to be the highest mountain (1,276 m asl.) in the southern Malay Peninsula. This study was conducted from July 2018 to April 2019. In total, 22 cameras were installed along three nature trails which are Sagill trail, Telekom Trail, and Resort Trail. Overall, a total of 31 species of terrestrial mammals from small- to large-sized were recorded in our camera trapping study of 3434 camera-days.Mammals such as the Leopard (Panthera pardus), Sumatran Serow (Capricornis sumatraensis), and Malayan Tapir (Tapirus indicus) were caught in the videos of camera trap. This showed that the diversity of mammals in Gunung Ledang is quite high. Tthis paper already gave valuable insights in a rainforest guild that is highly diverse and of outstanding value to the forest ecosystem. Management plans and strategy to conserve the mammals in Gunung Ledang can be done as accordingly afterwards.
In silico Vaccine Design against Dengue Virus Type 2 Envelope Glycoprotein
Authors: Adnan Muhammad , Nuhamunada Matin , Hidayati Lisna , Wijayanti Nastiti
Published: August 2021

Dengue fever is caused by the mosquito-borne virus termed (DENV). However, DENV-2 has been identified as the most prevalent amongst the Indonesian pediatric urban population, in contrast with the other four serotypes. Therefore, it is important to reduce severe infection risk by adopting preventive measures, including through vaccine development. The aim of this study, therefore is to use various in silico tools in the design of epitope-based peptide vaccines (T-cell and B-cell types), based on the DENV-2 envelope glycoprotein sequences available. Therefore, in silico methods were adopted in the analysis of the retrieved protein sequences. This technique was required to determine the most immunogenic protein, and is achieved through conservancy analysis, epitope identification, molecular simulation, and allergenicity assessment. Furthermore, B4XPM1, and KAWLVHRQW were identified from positions 204-212, while the 77 to 85 peptide region was considered the most potent T-cell and B-cell epitopes. The interaction between KAWLVHRQW and HLA-C*12:03 occurs with maximum population coverage, alongside high conservancy (96.98%) and binding affinity. These results indicated a potential for the designed epitopes to demonstrate high immunity against DENV-2.
Antimigratory Activity of Brazilin-Containing Fraction from Caesalpinia sappan L. on MDAMB-231 Cells
Authors: Handayani Sri , Susidarti Ratna Asmah , Lotulung Puspa Dewi Narrij , Darmawan Akhmad , Meiyanto Edy , Jenie Riris Istighfari
Published: August 2021

Caesalpinia sappan is studied for several biological activities. The aim of this research is to determine the cytotoxic and antimigratory activities of Caesalpinia sappan active fraction in combination with cisplatin on human TNBC cells (MDA-MB-231). Caesalpinia sappan heartwood was extracted with methanol. Then, several fractions of the methanol extract were obtained by using a liquid-liquid extraction method followed by column chromatography. The cytotoxicity was determined using MTT assay. Synergistic effects were analyzed by calculating the combination index (CI). Migration was examined using wound-healing assay. Levels of MMP2 activity were determined with gelatin zymography assay. The results showed that most of the fractions included in this study exhibited cytotoxic effects against MDA-MB-231 cells, and C fraction demonstrated the highest cytotoxic activity of all fractions. The combination of C-cisplatin revealed a synergistic inhibitory effect on MDA-MB-231 cell growth (CI<1). Furthermore, C fraction, alone and in combination with cisplatin, inhibited migration of MDA-MB-231 and suppressed MMP2 activity. The C fraction isolated from Caesalpinia sappan increased the cytotoxic and antimigratory activities of cisplatin on MDA-MB-231 cells. Based on these findings, the potential of Caesalpinia sappan to act as a supportive agent in metastatic TNBC treatment with cisplatin warrants further exploration.
An Optimization Model for Environmental Ergonomics Assessment in Bioproduction of Food SMEs
Authors: Ushada Mirwan , Mustika Hani Febri , Musdholifah Aina , Okayama Tsuyoshi
Published: August 2021

Environmental ergonomics in bioproduction of food Small Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) become a concern and need to be optimized. An optimization model was developed using a Genetic Algorithm (GA). The weight of an Artificial Neural Network Model was used as a fitness function for GA. The research objectives were: 1) To design an environmental ergonomic assessment system for bioproduction of Food SMEs, 2) To develop an optimization model for environmental ergonomic assessment using a Genetic Algorithm. GA is utilized to search optimal set points of environmental ergonomics based on the predicted fitness values. Each chromosome of GA represents the environmental ergonomics value. The parameters were heart rate, bioproduction temperature, distribution of bioproduction relative humidity and light intensity. The target of the optimization model was the bioproduction temperature set points. The research result indicated the model generated optimum values of environmental ergonomics parameter in bioproduction of food SMEs. The parameters could be used to provide standard workplace environment for the sustainability of food SMEs.
Quality Improvement of Semi-Wet Terasi by Optimizing the Starter Culture Ratio of Controlled Fermentation
Authors: Sato Arisa , Astuti Dea Indriani , Putri Sastia Prama , Fukusaki Eiichiro
Published: August 2021

Terasi is a traditional fermented shrimp paste used in Indonesian dish as condiments. Due to its affordability, the paste is widely consumed among the general population, and thus has a great impact in Indonesia. Currently, small-scale or home industry is common for terasi production, and natural fermentation process is the traditional method. Fermentation process is considered complete when desired aromatic odors are obtained. However, this makes the fermentation process subjective, because the decision is solely dependent on the producer. Additionally, natural fermentation poses a higher risk for contamination of microbial pathogens. As a result, the quality of the final product varies greatly from region to region. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the quality of terasi by means of controlled fermentation. Hence, the objective of the research is to optimize the controlled fermentation condition of terasi by determining the most optimal ratio of mixed starter culture. Optimal fermentation conditions were determined by analyzing the effect of the various starter inoculum on the inner microbial community, and results indicated that mixed culture of Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Bacillus subtilis, and Lactobacillus murinus with ratio of 2:1:2 was the most effective for suppressing the growth of unwanted microorganisms. The difference in the microbial composition also resulted to a change in the metabolite profile of terasi.
The Genetic Structure of Nilaparvata lugens (Stal.) in Java Populations
Authors: Winnie Ruth Martha , Raffiudin Rika , Widiarta I Nyoman , Rauf Aunu
Published: August 2021

The brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens (Stal.) causes hopperburn in the rice field. The wing macropterous adults of this insect have capability for long distance flight. We aimed to analyze the genetic structure of six N. lugens populations in Java inferred from the combined COI-COII mitochondrial and ten loci of microsatellites markers. This study found low levels of nucleotides and high levels of haplotype diversity of the planthopper. The demographic test might indicate the genetic bottleneck history of N. lugens population in Java. The genetic diversity analyzed by using microsatellite markers also showed high levels of heterozygosity (Ho>He) that indicated an isolated-breaking effect in the six populations in Java. Moreover, we found a homogenous genetic structure of N. lugens based on pairwise fixation indices (Fst) analyzes that appears to be maintained by high levels of gene flow and showed no correlation between genetic and geographical distance. Importantly, these studies also support accurate information of widely distributed and genetically intermixed among N. lugens across Asia populations. Thus, our results support the theory of long-distance migration among N. lugenspopulations. The genetic structure information of N. lugens in Java could support regional management, such as the new controlling strategies based on forecasting systems.
Stochastic evaluation of benthic biocoenosis as pollution assessment tool in a perturbed aquatic ecosystem
Authors: Uwadie Roland Efe , Ajose Awanat Ajoke
Published: August 2021

To analyse the extent of disturbances and determine the state of health of aquatic systems, the integration of several biological effects at different levels of biological organization has been used. One of the most valuable methods of biological effect measurements is the use of ecological surveys at community and population levels. In this study, the distributional evaluation of benthic biocoenosis was undertaken to determine site-specific differences in community assemblage in relation to environmental status of the study sites. Three study locations (Okobaba, Iddo and Tin Can Island) in the western side of the Lagos Lagoon with highest concentrations of human activities were selected. These sites represent areas directly affected by major anthropogenic discharge into the Lagos Lagoon. Samples were collected for six consecutive months (March and August 2014). There was great variation in parameters investigated among the study sites. The concentrations of dissolved oxygen in surface water varied from 3.0- 4.5 mg/L. Chlorophyll a in surface water fluctuated from 0.12- 2.01 mg/L whereas, in sediment values varied from 0.14-1.32 mg/g. Biomass of microphytobenthos (MPB) varied from 1.4-13.2 g. Of the total 841 MPB cells collected the highest population was recorded in Okobaba. Twelve MPB taxa were recorded in the study area. The most important species in terms of numerical abundance was Oscillatoria sp. This organism occurred in all the study stations and recorded a total of 113 cells in the study stretch. A major feature of the population distribution of the MPB taxa in this study is the occurrence of higher number of cells at Okobaba. The number of individuals and the distribution of BMF taxa varied greatly from one study location to another. Of the total 801 individuals collected, 398 were recorded at Okobaba, 316 occurred at Tin Can Island and 18 at Iddo. Unlike the case of MPB organisms, a fewer number of BMF taxa were recorded in the study area. The most important MBF taxon in terms of numerical abundance was Pachymelania aurita. This organism occurred in all the study sites and recorded a total of 162 individuals thereby constituting 20% of the total MBF population collected. The benthic community observed in this study was characterized by low number of individuals and the species of MPB and MBF recorded are known opportunistic species common in stressed environments.
Perception of white meat consumption among urban households in Ibadan North Local Government of Oyo State
Authors: Abegunrin O.O. , Olayemi O.O. , Ogunwale O.G. , Ajanaku A.O. , Olatunji B.T. , Oyewole O.O.
Published: August 2021

This study examines the consumer’s perception of white meat among household in Ibadan north local government area of Oyo state, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling was used through questionnaire to gather information from 110 respondents used as a sample size for the study. Data were analyzed through the use of descriptive statistics tools such as frequency and percentage, while inferential statistics such as chi-square and PPMC were used for the hypotheses. The result of the study revealed that majority (63.6%) of the respondents were married, also in their active age (93.2%) and engaged in trading and civil service work as their primary occupation. Also, majority (55.5%) had up to secondary education and tertiary school level with household size 1-5.The result further revealed that 52.4% of the respondents had unfavourable perception of white meat consumption while 47.6% had favourable perception. Also, better cholesterol content (53.6%) and reduced health risk (51.8%) were some of the perceived benefits of white meat considered by respondents. Constraints such as high cost of white meat (99%) and low income (88%) were considered as major constraints to white meat consumption. Chi-square analysis revealed that marital status(X2=18.693, P=0.028), education(X2=17.753, P=0.038) and primary occupation(X2=18.266, P=0.032) of respondents were found to have significant relationship with their perception of white meat consumption at 0.05 level. Also, PPMC analysis showed that there was relationship between perceived benefits and perception for white meat at 0.05 level of significant. The study, therefore, recommends that the enlightenment programmes on nutritional benefit of white meat consumption should be promoted for consumers to have right perception.
Profitability of broiler production in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Ettah Otu I. , Igiri Juliana A. , Ihejiamaizu Victor C.
Published: August 2021

The study was carried out to determine profitability of broiler production in Cross River State, Nigeria. A three stage multi sampling technique was adopted in the selection of 180 respondents. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, mean, ranking and percentages, as well as budgeting techniques tools such as net farm income (NFI), return to naira invested (RNI), gross and operating ratios (GR and OR) respectively. Result of analysis showed that socio-economic attributes of broiler farmers - age, sex, marital status, education, experience, business size and training studied influenced on broiler production in the area. Furthermore, the study revealed that broiler production is a profitable venture in the area. This is arising from the difference between a total revenue of N704, 000 and total cost of N419, 153 respectively, representing a net profit of N284, 646.6 or 67.90% of the total amount of money invested, within a production season of eight weeks. The return per naira invested ratio was 1.64, this meant that for every naira invested, N1.64 profit was made by the broiler farmer, this further indicated that the business is profitable. The gross ratio, which measured the overall financial success of the business recorded 0.61. However, cost of feeds, lack of extension services, financial constraints, cost of day old chick’s medication among others are the constraints affecting effective broiler production in the area. Based on the findings of this study, the following are recommended: regular extension training on broiler production should be carried out by the relevant government agencies, feeds should be subsidized and made easily available by government, production of day old chicks should be subsidized by government to cushion the effect of their high cost and livestock farmers should be encouraged to invest on the poultry subsector for it profitability.
A comparative review of literature on the integration of soft skills in Mathematics as reflected in the revised curriculum frameworks for Kenya, Rwanda, and Zambia
Authors: Busaka Chileshe , Kitta Septimi Reuben , Umugiraneza Odette
Published: August 2021

This paper comparatively analysed policy documents and peer-reviewed papers regarding the integration of soft skills in Mathematics taught in secondary schools in Kenya, Rwanda, and Zambia. The analysis highlights how the curricula for Kenya, Rwanda, and Zambia were revised, how soft skills were integrated and assessed in Mathematics and how Mathematics teachers were prepared to integrate soft skills in the teaching and learning of Mathematics. The review has shown that the three countries acknowledge Mathematics as one of the subjects in which soft skills should be integrated. Additionally, the three countries have a common understanding that the integration of soft skills requires changes in pedagogical and assessment approaches. However, the literature reviewed from the three countries indicates that there is very little data available highlighting the integration and assessment of soft skills in Mathematics as well as how mathematics teachers were prepared. This lack of adequate information on the integration and assessment of softs kills points to the fact that these skills may not be integrated in the teaching and learning of Mathematics which could lead to producing secondary school graduates, who are not creative, innovative, critical thinkers and problems solvers. The paper, therefore recommends that researchers should explore the challenges related to the deficiency in policy focus by the three countries on the integration of soft skills in  Mathematics.
Environmental factors as correlates of research attitude among post-graduate students in Nigeria: A path model approach
Authors: Ubi Isaac Ofem , Odiong Jacob Esu
Published: August 2021

The study investigated the relationship among some environmental factors and research attitude of post-graduate students in Nigeria using a path model approach. The researchers were poised at filling the gap in the type of multivariate statistical tools that have hitherto been used in comparing these variables by authors in the research area. One research question was formulated to guide the study. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The study area, which was south-south Nigeria, is one of the geo-political zones in the country with six federal universities. The population of the study was made up of 1,299 post graduate students of education faculties in the six universities. A sample of 520 students (40% of the population) was selected for the study through stratified random sampling method. The study instrument was a questionnaire titled Environmental and Attitude variables Questionnaire (EAVQ) prepared by the researchers. Result of the study showed that 14 out of 15 pathways in the hypothesized model for the relationship between environmental variables and research attitudewere significant and meaningful, withfive direct and nine indirect pathways. Based on the finding, the study recommends an improvement in those environmental factors to bring about corresponding improvement in research attitude. The study suggests that a study of the relationship between other environmental variables not included in this study on graduate students‟ research attitude in federal universities in south-south Nigeria should be carried out by future researchers. Such research can be extended to cover more geo-political zones in the country.
Age differentials in calibrated items of WAEC English Language Objective test taken by students in Nigeria
Authors: Ubi Isaac Ofem , Udemba Esther Chinenye
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to explore the influence of age differentials on item difficulty and discrimination indices of West African School Certificate (WAEC) English Language Objective test for May/June 2014 taken by students in Nigeria. The study area was the southern Education Zone of Cross River State. The design used for the study was ex-post facto, justified by the fact that the variable of the study had occurred before being studied and that no manipulation of subjects of study was involved. The 2014 May/June English objective test items were used as they were. The instrument (made up of all the fifty items of the test) was administered to a sample of 100 students selected through accidental sampling procedure. Results of the study indicate that item response to the test depended, among other things, on the age brackets of the students. The older students seem to respond more correctly to items than their younger counterparts. The study recommends more proactive steps in admission of age compliant candidates for terminal examinations in Secondary Schools.
Choice of Information and Communication Technology Tools in Tomato Marketing Among Smallholder Farmers in Kirinyaga County, Kenya
Authors: Mauti Kevin Orangi , Ndirangu Samuel Njiri , Mwangi Samuel Chege
Published: August 2021

This study examined the factors influencing the choice of information and communication technology (ICT) tools used in tomato marketing by smallholder farmers in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. Households were selected through a combination of purposive, two-stage stratified and probability proportionate to size sampling techniques. The study employed Semi-structured interview schedules to collect data from the sampled small-scale tomato farmers. Factors affecting the choice of ICT tools in tomato marketing were identified using multivariate model. The study revealed that age, income, level of education, farmers’ experience, and farm size, tomato production, willingness to pay for ICT tools, tomato prices and knowledge on ICT are predictors of choice of ICT use. ICT should be given in such a way that all farmers can get information as per their need. Policy makers and agricultural extension agents should create awareness on the use and importance of ICT tools for farmers to accept and use available ICT tools.
Revisiting the Myth of Dunkirk: Lissa Evans’s Their Finest Hour and a Half
Authors: Lasak Alicja
Published: August 2021

The aim of the paper is to explore how the myth of Dunkirk is depicted in one of contemporary British historical novels, Lissa Evans’s Their Finest Hour and a Half (2009). With reference to relevant examples from the novel, it is asked if the myth is cultivated or debunked. The article poses the question whether the novel evokes nostalgia for national unity, conveys a hopeful message about more equal opportunities for women than before the war, or reassesses history in a tragicomic manner. Three aspects addressed in Their Finest Hour and a Half are taken into consideration, namely, first, women’s role in myth-making; second, soldiers’ attitude towards uplifting myths surrounding the evacuation of Dunkirk; third, the impact of propa­ganda films on those living in the 1940s and facing the harsh reality of the war. Rekonstrukcja mitu Dunkierki w powieści Lissy Evans Their Finest Hour and a Half Celem artykułu jest zbadanie, w jaki sposób mit Dunkierki został przedstawiony w jednej ze współczesnych brytyjskich powieści historycznych – Their Finest Hour and a Half (2009) Lissy Evans. Odwołując się do konkretnych przykładów z powieści, zadajemy sobie pytanie, czy mit jest nadal kultywowany, czy też kontestowany. Artykuł stawia pytanie, czy powieść wywołuje nostalgię za jednością narodową, niesie optymistyczne przesłanie o rów­niejszych szansach kobiet w trakcie wojny aniżeli przed nią, czy też w sposób tragikomiczny dokonuje ponownej oceny historii. Pod uwagę brane są trzy aspekty, o których traktuje Their Finest Hour and a Half, a mianowicie, po pierwsze, rola kobiet w tworzeniu mitów; po drugie, stosunek żołnierzy do podnoszących na duchu mitów związanych z ewakuacją Dunkierki; po trzecie, wpływ filmów propagandowych na ludzi żyjących w latach 40. XX wieku i zmagają­cych się z trudną rzeczywistością wojny.
In Search of Hope in J.M. Coetzee’s Diary of a Bad Year
Authors: Jęczmińska Kinga
Published: August 2021

The article discusses J.M. Coetzee’s Diary of a Bad Year to argue that although the main protagonist’s views upon social, ethical, political, and scientific matters may be described as rather pessimistic, the novel still portrays artistic creation as a source of solace, hope, and a motivation for improvement in human life. The validity of the protagonist’s despondent outlook upon human life is undermined by the tripartite composition of the narrative, in which his opinions are questioned when juxtaposed with the alternative views voiced by the other characters. It is argued in particular that the story narrated in the novel reinforces the image of the positive role of literature in human existence. W poszukiwaniu nadziei w Diary of a Bad Year J.M. Coetzeego Niniejszy artykuł omawia Diary of a Bad Year J.M. Coetzeego w celu wykazania, że chociaż poglądy głównego bohatera na kwestie społeczne, etyczne, polityczne i naukowe można określić jako dość pesymistyczne, powieść przedstawia jednak twórczość artystyczną jako źródło ukojenia, nadziei i motywację do doskonalenia w życiu człowieka. Zasadność posępnego spojrzenia głównego bohatera na życie ludzkie jest zakwestionowana przez trójdzielną kompozycję narracji, w której jego opinie są podważane w zestawieniu z alternatywnymi poglądami pozostałych postaci. Tekst w szczególności dowodzi, że ukazana w powieści historia bohaterów umacnia obraz pozytywnej roli literatury w ludzkim istnieniu.
“Hope as the Engine for Imagining Utopia”: A Dream of a World Beyond Gender
Authors: Dziurzyńska Magdalena
Published: August 2021

By analyzing the depiction of androgyny in Marge Piercy’s science fiction novels in the context of gender performativity and constructionism, this article demonstrates that androgyny may be used as a tool for deconstructing gender roles. Arguably, Piercy proposes a new, non-essentialist vision of humankind through the creation of androgynous or agender human and cybernetic bodies. Moreover, the article substantiates how the images of utopian worlds, which present futuristic hope, are connected with the postgender idea of gender transcendence, while the dystopian ones seem to be strongly related to gender essentialism. „Utopia jako nadzieja”: w stronę świata poza granicami płci Poprzez analizę przedstawienia androginii w powieściach science fiction autorstwa Marge Piercy w kontekście performatywności płci i konstrukcjonizmu niniejszy artykuł pokazuje, że androginia może być wykorzystywana jako narzędzie dekonstrukcji ról płciowych. Piercy proponuje nową, nie esencjonalistyczną wizję ludzkości poprzez tworzenie androgynicznych lub agenderowych ludzkich i cybernetycznych ciał. Ponadto artykuł ukazuje, w jaki sposób obrazy utopijnych światów, które niosą z sobą futurystyczną nadzieję, wiążą się z postgenderową ideą transcendencji płci, podczas gdy dystopijne światy wydają się silnie powiązane z esencjalizmem płciowym.
География русской квир-поэзии: Польша как место встречи традиции и скандала
Authors: Vorontsova Kristina
Published: August 2021

Geography of Russian Queer Poetry: Poland as Space Where Tradition and Scandal Meet The article focuses on the issue of Poland as a specific artistic space in queer poetry in Russia of the 90s and 2000s. Drawing on the creative work of Alexandr Anashevich, Yaroslav Mogutin, Alexandr Ilyanen and Ilya Danishevskiy, it reveals the connection between traditional narratives present in the Soviet official and unofficial, underground literature and new perceptions of gender. While partly sharing in “gender anxiety,” Poland is, nevertheless, considered a commonplace setting in queer poetry practices and performances on account of its unreliable, limitrophe, “threshold” nature for Russian-speaking recipients. Geografia rosyjskiej poezji queer: Polska jako miejsce spotkań skandalu i tradycji Streszczenie: Artykuł koncentruje się na problematyce Polski jako specyficznej przestrzeni artystycznej w poezji, wpisującej się w dyskurs gay i queer w Rosji lat 90. i pierwszej dekady XXI wieku. Na materiale pracy twórczej Aleksandra Anaszewicza, Jarosława Mogutina, Aleksandra Ilianena i Ilii Daniszewskiego został ujawniony związek między tradycyjnymi narracjami radzieckiej oficjalnej i nieoficjalnej literatury oraz nowe postrzeganie pojęcia płci w kontekście geopoetyki. Polska, choć częściowo podzielająca poczucie „lęku przed płcią”, uważana jest za popularne miejsce w queerowych praktykach i przedstawieniach poetyckich z powodu jej istotnej niewiarygodnej, „progowej”, „granicznej” natury dla rosyjskojęzycznych odbiorców.
ПРАВООТНОШЕНИЯ ПО СОВРЕМЕННОМУ РОССИЙСКОМУ КОНКУРСНОМУ ПРАВУ: НЕКОТОРЫЕ ТЕОРЕТИЧЕСКИЕ АСПЕКТЫ (ЧАСТЬ 1)
Authors: Андрей В.С.
Published: August 2021

В статье рассматриваются теоретические вопросы материальных и процессуальных конкурсных правовых отношений. На основе имеющихся научных разработок автор предлагает модель системы правовой сферы несостоятельности (банкротства). Подчеркивается значение организационных конкурсных правоотношений как связующего звена между материальной и процессуальной составляющими этой сферы.