bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping Progress in Workplace Protections: A Study of Global LGBTQI + Workplace Antidiscrimination Legislation in 2016 and 2023
Authors: Weistroffer Ross L. , Raub Amy , Sprague Aleta , Heymann Jody
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Despite global commitments to advance economic inclusion for all, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI +) workers around the world continue to face workplace discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Developing a detailed global understanding of national laws addressing SOGIESC-based employment discrimination is a critical step towards making progress in these commitments.

Methods

In this study, we systematically analyzed how detailed measures of legal prohibitions of SOGIESC-based employment discrimination across hiring, pay, promotions, access to training, and terminations changed from 2016 to 2023. Additionally, we examined measures that support implementation and enforcement, as well as exceptions to protections. We also assessed differences in protections between regions as classified by the World Bank using Pearson’s Chi-squared tests.

Results

We found that 71 countries prohibited at least some form of workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation, 41 countries did so based on gender identity, 18 did so based on gender expression, and 14 did so based on sex characteristics.

Conclusions

Notable legal gaps remained in prohibition specificity, nationwide coverage, and enforcement mechanisms. Protections are also undermined by exemptions for faith-based institutions found in 4 countries. While progress in protections is sizable and steady, inequities persist across regions.

Policy Implications

These findings offer actionable insights regarding the strengths and shortcomings of current national laws and can act as the foundation for further legal progress in protecting LGBTQI + people at work.
Influence of plasma exosomes from women living with HIV Stratified by HAND on monocyte subpopulations from healthy women without HIV
Authors: Collazo Bryan Jael , Ortiz-Valentín Lorivette , Negrón-Rodríguez Cristhian G. , Medina-Colón Juan Carlos , Cantres-Rosario Yisel M. , Rodríguez Elaine , Wojna Valerie , Gerena Yamil
Published: January 2025

The role of plasma exosomes from people living with HIV (PLWH) with HAND in the phenotypic profile of uninfected monocytes remains unknown. We hypothesized that these exosomes influence the CD14/CD16 phenotypical profile of uninfected monocytes in a time-dependent manner. Exosomes were collected via ultracentrifugation from the plasma of women living with HIV (WLWH) and healthy controls stratified according to their cognition into normal cognition (NC) or symptomatic neurocognitive impairment (SNI) groups. Monocyte subsets were identified via flow cytometry by using anti-CD14 and anti-CD16 fluorescent antibodies. Exosome uptake and changes in the percentages of monocyte subpopulations were analyzed from 1 to 24 h. The following results were obtained. (1) The uptake of HIV-negative exosomes by total uninfected monocytes was observed at 24 h, whereas the uptake of HIV-positive exosomes was observed at an earlier time point at 6 h. (2) HIV-positive exosomes significantly decreased the percentage of classical monocytes and increased intermediate and nonclassical monocytes at 24 h. (3) The uptake of NC exosomes was observed at an early time point at 6 h compared with SNI in all of the monocyte subsets. (4) Higher percentages of monocyte subsets were observed when cells were exposed to NC exosomes at 1 h, 6 h, or 24 h than when monocytes were exposed to exosomes from SNI patients. Our findings may help to identify new targets and molecular mechanisms that are involved in the pathogenesis of HAND.
Opinion of the European Copyright Society on the Scope of the Pastiche Exception in EU Copyright Law (CG and YN v Pelham GmbH and Others, Case C-590/23)
Authors: Mezei Péter , Senftleben Martin , Sganga Caterina , Geiger Christophe
Published: January 2025

In its questions for preliminary ruling, the German Federal Court of Justice asked for clarification as regards the definition of pastiche under EU copyright law; and, in essence, whether and how this concept applies to musical sampling. In the present Opinion, the European Copyright Society takes the view that pastiche is an autonomous concept of EU law. Article 5(3)(k) InfoSoc Directive (ISD) should be read as an overarching provision including three forms of permitted use that share their underlying nature but shall be judged differently. The meaning of pastiche cannot be understood as a mere imitation of an artistic style and it need not entail an explicit interaction with the original work. The presence of humour or mockery is not a necessary requirement for the application of the pastiche exception. Also, the expression resulting from the exercise of the pastiche exception need not itself be an original work. Finally, the intention of the user to create pastiche plays no role in the review of the legality of any given use. At the same time, legitimate forms of pastiche need to have their own features that are distinguishable from the copyrighted expression in pre-existing works used as source materials. Overall, the use of the pastiche exception for purposes of musical sampling, as in the underlying Metall auf Metall case, complies with all the three steps of Art. 5(5) ISD.
Methyl jasmonate spray for the protection of broad-leaf trees against oomycete and fungal pathogens
Authors: Dorado F. Javier , Matsiakh Iryna , Camisón Álvaro , Olaizola Jaime , Romeralo Carmen , Martín Juan Antonio , Witzell Johanna , Solla Alejandro
Published: January 2025

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is a volatile hormone produced by plants in response to stress. Exogenous application of MeJA enhances resistance to pathogens in conifers, but little is known if resistance is also enhanced in broad-leaf trees. This article reports on five independent experiments carried out to determine the preventive and curative effects of MeJA spray in broad-leaf trees in response to relevant pathogens. In Castanea sativa seedlings, preventive MeJA spray at 1 mM was the most effective dose against Phytophthora cinnamomi, and protection lasted one year. For Quercus ilex and Q. suber seedlings, double spray of MeJA at 0.2 mM, before and after inoculation, and single spray of MeJA at 1 mM before inoculation were the most effective treatments against P. cinnamomi, respectively. MeJA spray had no effect on the mycorrhization of plants. Quercus robur and Fraxinus excelsior plants were sprayed with 0, 0.2, 1, 5 and 10 mM MeJA, before and after Phytophthora plurivora infection, but no protection was observed. Finally, Ulmus minor trees were sprayed at 1 and 10 mM MeJA, and protection against Ophiostoma novo-ulmi was dose- and genotype-dependent. It is concluded that MeJA spray can induce resistance in broad-leaf trees against widespread and highly virulent pathogens, but the effect may vary depending on the tree species and pathogen combination. Protection of broad-leaf trees could be obtained only if the appropriate dose and timing is used.
Unraveling Temporal Dynamics of Employees’ Musculoskeletal Health: The Role of Initial Success in Workplace Physical Activity Interventions
Authors: Nath Alexander , Schimmelpfennig Sophia , Konradt Udo
Published: January 2025

Employees in contemporary work environments frequently face negative health impacts from sedentary behavior, such as musculoskeletal pain in the neck, shoulders, or lower body. This study reanalyzes data from a 3-month longitudinal randomized controlled intervention trial involving office-workers from five organizations alongside previously unpublished data from the same trial. The trial demonstrated that office-yoga and walking interventions effectively reduced musculoskeletal complaints (MSC) compared to a waitlist control group. This research aims to uncover the role of temporal dynamics of MSC that enhance and explain the success of these interventions. Drawing on self-regulation and psychological momentum theory, we hypothesize that employees who experience initial successes in terms of initial velocity and acceleration of MSC reduction show an increased intervention adherence which predicts intervention effectiveness. Based on social cognitive theory and the theory of planned behavior, we investigate how participants’ pre-intervention attitude toward the intervention and their outcome expectations predict initial adherence and subsequent temporal dynamics of health changes in a serial mediation model. Results from Bayesian Latent Acceleration Modelling revealed that initial velocity and acceleration of MSC reduction predicted intervention effectiveness. However, adherence did not mediate this relationship. Furthermore, a gradually increasing amount of walking was found beneficial. Attitude toward the intervention predicted initial adherence only in the walking group, while findings regarding outcome expectations were non-significant. This research emphasizes the importance of temporal dynamics, especially the initial temporal dynamics of health changes, for the effectiveness of workplace physical activity interventions and offers new directions for occupational health research and practice.
Exploiting symmetries in nuclear Hamiltonians for ground state preparation
Authors: Gibbs Joe , Holmes Zoë , Stevenson Paul
Published: January 2025

The Lipkin and Agassi models are simplified nuclear models that provide natural test beds for quantum simulation methods. Prior work has investigated the suitability of the variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) to find the ground state of these models. There is a growing awareness that if VQE is to prove viable, we will need problem inspired ansätze that take into account the symmetry properties of the problem and use clever initialisation strategies. Here, by focusing on the Lipkin and Agassi models, we investigate how to do this in the context of nuclear physics ground state problems. We further use our observations to discus the potential of new classical, but quantum-inspired, approaches to learning ground states in nuclear problems.
‘One of the most alarming casualties to which the Sailor is exposed’: British Naval Medicine, Embodied Knowledge, and the Experience of Lightning at Sea, 1750–1840
Authors: Caputo Sara
Published: January 2025

Lightning-related accidents were relatively frequent among age-of-sail seafarers, due to tall ships’ exposure and prominence above the sea. Yet lightning remains largely neglected in the historiography on sailors’ experiences. Examining a range of contemporary medical and philosophical literature, shipboard surgeons’ journals, operational correspondence and seamen’s memoirs, this article argues that lightning strikes created unique moments of epistemological and social crisis aboard naval ships. With its awesome multi-sensorial manifestations, divine symbolism and catastrophic and erratic effects on human bodies, lightning loomed large in many seafarers’ consciousness, as a powerful source of panic and trauma. At the same time, despite contemporary developments in natural philosophical understandings of electricity, surgeons’ training on how to treat these injuries remained limited. As a result, lightning could substantially affect naval shipboard relations between officers and ‘common’ seamen, creating challenges to the former’s authority and mobilising a range of competing emotions and knowledges. Considering lightning illustrates the fruitfulness of looking at uncommon but devastating types of injury, for historians interested in medical authority and in the doctor–patient relationship. It also helps us to start sketching accounts of seafaring bodies, health and maritime medical and religious cultures that give the sky its due place alongside the water.
Carsun Chang's Jefferson: A Lost Era of Transnational Sino-American Constitutional Imagination
Authors: Kroncke Jedidiah Joseph , Li Haimo
Published: January 2025

This article recovers a lost era of Sino-American constitutional imagination surrounding the drafting of the 1946 Republic of China Constitution. It examines the transnational dynamics that led the Constitution's initial drafter, Zhang Junmai or Carsun Chang, to travel to the U.S. in 1945 to ostensibly study the ideas of Thomas Jefferson then ascendant in New Deal constitutional rhetoric. Recovering this episode recontextualizes Chang's early and late life as one of China's cosmopolitan intellectuals emerging from its contentious post-1911 dynastic politics who shaped China's engagement with evolving institutions of the modern international legal order. This recontextualization broadens and revises extant accounts of Chang's engagement with the 1946 constitutional drafting process by challenging accepted understandings of Chang's personal and intellectual trajectory and illuminating how the geopolitics of the Chinese Civil War intersected with presumptions about the overseas projection of American constitutional values increasingly embedded in twentieth-century American internationalism. Herein, Chang's long-standing interest in Jefferson's constitutional ideals was reshaped by the strategic considerations he faced situated between his consistent criticism of Guomindang leader Chiang-Kai Shek and Chang's suddenly heightened status among American political leaders. His near year-long stay in the U.S. before the 1946 drafting process involved many little known but determinative turns, including the role of a subset of Roosevelt and Truman Administration officials actively enamored with Jefferson's own study of Confucianism. The article also details the telling contours of Chang's post-1949 life as a political exile in the United States. Ultimately, this recovered episode demonstrates the pervasive and impactful nature of transnational dynamics in modern Sino-American relations which blur the line between national and international legal history. Most broadly, the fallout from the 1946 drafting process and the varied Chinese interpretations of thinkers like Jefferson reflect the mid-twentieth century transition of America from a global symbol of constitutional revolution to a global symbol of racialized empire. Recapturing this era thus also has implications for originalist-styled constitutional arguments made in contemporary Taiwan as well as for evaluating the international dimensions of Jefferson's problematic domestic legacy.
Developing Countries' Participation in Environmental Services Negotiations: What are the Challenges and What Should be Done?
Authors: Tuljapurkar Sanvid , Zhang Ruosi
Published: January 2025

The urgency to tackle climate change has placed sustainable development at the centre of recent trade related debates. An emerging consensus is that trade should be considered and can be used as means to achieve sustainable development goals. As the circumstances are changing, one issue to be addressed is how to adjust trade negotiations which used to be the main approach to pursuing market opening and liberalization with the support of the theory of comparative advantage. In this context, this paper examines trade negotiations on environmental services by focusing on developing countries' participation. Environmental services and related trade play a critical role in achieving environmental and sustainable development goals. Nevertheless, developing countries' participation in environmental services trade negotiations has been limited. By analysing the reasons behind such limited participation and assessing some new approaches, this paper attempts to explore how environmental services trade negotiations could be adapted to better engage developing countries and serve Sustainable Development Goals.
Cultivating nut tree species in urban community gardens in Germany: motivations, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: Opitz Janine , Egerer Monika
Published: January 2025

The EAT-Lancet Commission recommends increasing the consumption of nut trees worldwide as part of a sustainable diet. Integrating more nut tree species in urban gardening initiatives could provide members access to locally grown nuts and provide ecosystem services to urban landscapes. This study investigated the reported presence and diversity of nut tree species in urban community gardens, as well as the motivations and challenges for adopting and expanding those trees. Based on an online survey with 111 responding projects from the urban community gardening network in Germany as our case study, we found that nut tree species exist in almost half of all responding projects surveyed, albeit in a few numbers of individual trees and producing low yields. Projects are motivated by the provisioning, regulating, and cultural ecosystem services they provide, such as the nutritional value of nuts, the provision of food for animals, and the potential for education of members about agroforestry and nut use. Yet projects are hindered by limited space, local laws and regulations, and the interaction of nut trees with other species in the garden. Although only 50% of projects plan to incorporate more nut tree species in the future, most recognize the importance of nuts as part of a healthy diet. Governmental leadership is necessary to secure long-term contracts for urban gardens, so that more nut trees can be planted, and city residents can exploit the benefits of the ecosystem services they provide.
How should medicines reimbursement work? The views of Spanish experts
Authors: Rejon-Parrilla Juan Carlos , Epstein David , Pérez-Troncoso Daniel , Espin Jaime
Published: January 2025

Although the criteria that support reimbursement decisions for medicines are often set by legislation, as is the case in Spain, in many cases neither the definition nor the measurement methods for these criteria are provided. Our goal was to elicit the views of a large sample of Spanish technical specialists on how to evaluate each one of the criteria that inform pricing and reimbursement decisions in Spain. Professionals from various stakeholder groups involved in health economics, health technology assessment, and industry participated in a survey. Participants recommended that reimbursement decisions should take specific account of unmet medical need and rare diseases. Health benefit should be measured using quality-adjusted life-years. There should be an explicit cost-effectiveness threshold, and this threshold should take account of population groups and special situations.
Atmospheric wind energization of ocean weather
Authors: Rai Shikhar , Farrar J. Thomas , Aluie Hussein
Published: January 2025

Ocean weather comprises vortical and straining mesoscale motions, which play fundamentally different roles in the ocean circulation and climate system. Vorticity determines the movement of major ocean currents and gyres. Strain contributes to frontogenesis and the deformation of water masses, driving much of the mixing and vertical transport in the upper ocean. While recent studies have shown that interactions with the atmosphere damp the ocean’s mesoscale vortices O(100) km in size, the effect of winds on straining motions remains unexplored. Here, we derive a theory for wind work on the ocean’s vorticity and strain. Using satellite and model data, we discover that wind damps strain and vorticity at an equal rate globally, and unveil striking asymmetries based on their polarity. Subtropical winds damp oceanic cyclones and energize anticyclones outside strong current regions, while subpolar winds have the opposite effect. A similar pattern emerges for oceanic strain, where subtropical convergent flow is damped along the west-equatorward east-poleward direction and energized along the east-equatorward west-poleward direction. These findings reveal energy pathways through which the atmosphere shapes ocean weather.
Pasteurisation temperatures effectively inactivate influenza A viruses in milk
Authors: Schafers Jenna , Warren Caroline J. , Yang Jiayun , Zhang Junsen , Cole Sarah J. , Cooper Jayne , Drewek Karolina , Kolli B. Reddy , McGinn Natalie , Qureshi Mehnaz , Reid Scott M. , Peacock Thomas P. , Brown Ian , James Joe , Banyard Ashley C. , Iqbal Munir , Digard Paul , Hutchinson Edward
Published: January 2025

In late 2023 an H5N1 lineage of high pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) began circulating in American dairy cattle Concerningly, high titres of virus were detected in cows’ milk, raising the concern that milk could be a route of human infection. Cows’ milk is typically pasteurised to render it safe for human consumption, but the effectiveness of pasteurisation on influenza viruses in milk was uncertain. To assess this, here we evaluate heat inactivation in milk for a panel of different influenza viruses. This includes human and avian influenza A viruses (IAVs), an influenza D virus that naturally infects cattle, and recombinant IAVs carrying contemporary avian or bovine H5N1 glycoproteins. At pasteurisation temperatures of 63 °C and 72 °C, we find that viral infectivity is rapidly lost and becomes undetectable before the times recommended for pasteurisation (30 minutes and 15 seconds, respectively). We then show that an H5N1 HPAIV in milk is effectively inactivated by a comparable treatment, even though its genetic material remains detectable. We conclude that pasteurisation conditions should effectively inactivate H5N1 HPAIV in cows’ milk, but that unpasteurised milk could carry infectious influenza viruses.
Proteomic insights into dual-species biofilm formation of E. coli and E. faecalis on urinary catheters
Authors: Sung Kidon , Park Miseon , Kweon Ohgew , Paredes Angel , Savenka Alena , Khan Saeed A
Published: January 2025

Infections associated with urinary catheters are often caused by biofilms composed of various bacterial species that form on the catheters’ surfaces. In this study, we investigated the intricate interplay between Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis during biofilm formation on urinary catheter segments using a dual-species culture model. We analyzed biofilm formation and global proteomic profiles to understand how these bacteria interact and adapt within a shared environment. Our findings demonstrated dynamic population shifts within the biofilms, with E. coli initially thriving in the presence of E. faecalis, then declining during biofilm development. E. faecalis exhibited a rapid decrease in cell numbers after 48 h in both single- and dual-species biofilms. Interestingly, the composition of the dual-species biofilms was remarkably diverse, with some predominantly composed of E. coli or of E. faecalis; others showed a balanced ratio of both species. Notably, elongated E. faecalis cells were observed in dual-species biofilms, a novel finding in mixed-species biofilm cultures. Proteomic analysis revealed distinct adaptive strategies E. coli and E. faecalis employed within biofilms. E. coli exhibited a more proactive response, emphasizing motility, transcription, and protein synthesis for biofilm establishment; whereas E. faecalis displayed a more reserved strategy, potentially downregulating metabolic activity, transcription, and translation in response to cohabitation with E. coli. Both E. coli and E. faecalis displayed significant downregulation of virulence-associated proteins when coexisting in dual-species biofilms. By delving deeper into these dynamics, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of challenging biofilm-associated infections, paving the way for novel strategies to combat them.
Hierarchical image classification using transfer learning to improve deep learning model performance for amazon parrots
Authors: Kim Jung-Il , Baek Jong-Won , Kim Chang-Bae
Published: January 2025

Numerous studies have proven the potential of deep learning models for classifying wildlife. Such models can reduce the workload of experts by automating species classification to monitor wild populations and global trade. Although deep learning models typically perform better with more input data, the available wildlife data are ordinarily limited, specifically for rare or endangered species. Recently, citizen science programs have helped accumulate valuable wildlife data, but such data is still not enough to achieve the best performance of deep learning models compared to benchmark datasets. Recent studies have applied the hierarchical classification of a given wildlife dataset to improve model performance and classification accuracy. This study applied hierarchical classification by transfer learning for classifying Amazon parrot species. Specifically, a hierarchy was built based on diagnostic morphological features. Upon evaluating model performance, the hierarchical model outperformed the non-hierarchical model in detecting and classifying Amazon parrots. Notably, the hierarchical model achieved the mean Average Precision (mAP) of 0.944, surpassing the mAP of 0.908 achieved by the non-hierarchical model. Moreover, the hierarchical model improved classification accuracy between morphologically similar species. The outcomes of this study may facilitate the monitoring of wild populations and the global trade of Amazon parrots for conservation purposes.
Orally administered live BCG and heat-inactivated Mycobacterium bovis protect bison against experimental bovine tuberculosis
Authors: Niroula Nirajan , Ghodasara Priya , Marreros Nelson , Fuller Bailey , Sanderson Haley , Zriba Slim , Walker Stew , Shury Todd K. , Chen Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2025

Bovine tuberculosis (BTB) is an infectious disease of livestock and wildlife species that is caused by pathogenic members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex such as Mycobacterium bovis. Due to the introduction of M. bovis-infected bison in the 1920s, BTB is now endemic in wood bison (Bison bison athabascae) population within the Wood Buffalo National Park (WBNP) in northern Canada. This disease poses a grave threat to the long-term survival of this ecologically and culturally important species and has the potential to cause zoonotic TB and spill over to BTB-free livestock and other bison herds that live in the surrounding areas. Thus, effective BTB control strategies in WBNP bison are urgently needed. To this end, we aerosol challenged young bison with different doses of virulent M. bovis and observed disease-associated delayed-type hypersensitivity, gross lung and lymph node pathology and histopathology, as well as M. bovis burden in target organs, thus confirming the establishment of BTB in challenged animals. We then assessed the safety and efficacy of oral live BCG versus oral heat-inactivated M. bovis (HIMB) given in a homologous prime-boost regimen in bison. While both BCG and HIMB offered protection against BTB, BCG-treated bison thrived more, presented with fewer lung lesions at necropsy and lower burden of virulent M. bovis than HIMB-treated animals. Strikingly, oral HIMB induced almost no delayed-type hypersensitivity to intradermal tuberculin while oral live BCG induced very low sensitivity to tuberculin in bison, indicating their potential as DIVA (differentiating infected from vaccinated animals) vaccines for use in this important wildlife species.
Unusual phase transition mechanism induced by shear strain in Si2BN planar structures and comparison with graphene: an ab initio DFT study
Authors: Fthenakis Zacharias G. , Menon Madhu
Published: January 2025

By applying in-plane shear strain, a structural phase transition occurs between the Si2BN planar sheets with AA and AB stacking.
Insights into the electronic, magnetic structure, and photocatalytic activity of Y2CuMnO6 double perovskite
Authors: Munisha Bhagyashree , Patra Lokanath , Nanda Jyotirmayee , Mondal Sneha
Published: January 2025

We develop Y2CuMnO6 double perovskite using a citrate auto combustion method, to be used as a photocatalyst for the degradation of organic dyes and antibiotics.
Removal of active pharmaceutical compounds in Primalan and Diane using pumpkin biochar: synthesis, characterization, and adsorption study
Authors: Barkahoum Boudoumi , Saadia Guergazi , Asma Nouioua
Published: January 2025

This investigation aims to apply the adsorption process to eliminate mequitazine and ethinylestradiol, the active molecules of Primalan and Diane, respectively, from aqueous solutions, utilizing biochar synthesized from pumpkin fruits (PB-500).
Green light-responsive photoelectrochemical sensing nanoplatform based on copper cobaltite nanorods for ultrasensitive detection of furazolidone antibiotic residue in food samples
Authors: Huyen Nguyen Ngoc , Ngo Xuan-Dinh , Huong Mai Vu Thi , Lan Huong Phung Thi , Thang Pham Duc , Tuan Le-Anh
Published: January 2025

In this study, we describe experimental efforts to understand the effect of laser light irradiation on the performance of CuCo2O4-based electrochemical sensor for the detection of furazolidone antibiotic.
Ligand-free palladium-catalyzed synthesis of 3-(2,2-dialkyl-2H-chromen-4-yl)-2-phenylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives: molecular docking investigation of their potential as DNA gyrase inhibitors and evaluation of their antibacterial activities
Authors: Mishra Rudra Narayan , Ahemad Mohammed Ansar , Panda Jasmine , Nayak Sabita , Mohapatra Seetaram , Sahoo Chita Ranjan
Published: January 2025

A series of 3-(2,2-dialkyl-2H-chromen-4-yl)-2-phenylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives were synthesis. Molecular docking studies and antibacterial evaluation validates as potent druggable antibacterial agents in future.
A one-dimensional organic–inorganic hybrid ferroelectric exhibiting a dielectric-optical duple switch
Authors: Gu Qian-Jun , Tong Yu-Qiao , Yin Shi-Qing , Wang Ping , Gong Peng-Peng , Li Ya-Juan , Fang Yue , Zhao Yang , Huang Bo
Published: January 2025

A one-dimensional organic–inorganic hybrid ferroelectric, (C4H8NH2)2[BiCl5], exhibiting a dielectric-optical duple switch is reported. Theoretical study discloses that the ferroelectricity originates from both organic cations and inorganic anions.
Dynamical evolution of the open clusters with different star formation efficiencies and orbital parameters
Authors: Ishchenko M. , Masliukh V. , Hradov M. , Berczik P. , Shukirgaliyev B. , Omarov C.
Published: January 2025

Context. Open star clusters are dynamic systems whose evolution is critically influenced by initial conditions such as star formation efficiency and orbital parameters. Understanding their dissolution mechanisms provides insight into stellar population dynamical mixing in the Milky Way.

Aims. We aim to investigate the dynamical evolution and dissolution of initially non-virialised open clusters by examining how different global star formation efficiencies and orbital characteristics impact the cluster longevity and structural changes. We followed the evolution of the clusters up to their dissolution time on the basis of our calculations. Finally, we also compare our open cluster dynamical evolutionary models with the observed open clusters in our Galaxy’s solar vicinity.

Methods. Using high-order direct N -body simulations, we modelled cluster evolution across different Galactic orbits, systematically varying initial star formation efficiencies to comprehensively explore dissolution mechanisms.

Results. Our simulations reveal that open clusters typically survive approximately ten orbital periods, with cluster lifetime being strongly dependent on global star formation efficiency and only marginally influenced by orbital eccentricity. We estimate gas expulsion timescales of ∼0.9 Myr, with initial supernova explosions efficiently removing gaseous components from the cluster. The expected lifetime of the cluster (in units of orbital periods) strongly depends on the cluster global star-formation efficiency and only slightly on the orbital eccentricities of the cluster.

Conclusions. The theoretical models demonstrate a remarkable agreement of the Roche-lobe filling parameter with the recent observed Gaia DR3 cluster catalogues in the solar vicinity. By incorporating a mixed sample of clusters with varying star formation efficiencies, we provide a more nuanced understanding of open cluster evolution in the Galactic disc.
SN 2018is: A low-luminosity Type IIP supernova with narrow hydrogen emission lines at early phases
Authors: Dastidar R. , Misra K. , Valenti S. , Sand D. J. , Pastorello A. , Reguitti A. , Pignata G. , Benetti S. , Bose S. , Gangopadhyay A. , Singh M. , Tomasella L. , Andrews J. E. , Arcavi I. , Ashall C. , Bilinski C. , Bostroem K. A. , Buckley D. A. H. , Cannizzaro G. , Chomiuk L. , Congiu E. , Dong S. , Dong Y. , Elias-Rosa N. , Fraser M. , Gall C. , Gromadzki M. , Hiramatsu D. , Hosseinzadeh G. , Howell D. A. , Hsiao E. Y. , McCully C. , Smith N. , Strader J.
Published: January 2025

We present a comprehensive photometric and spectroscopic study of the Type IIP supernova (SN) 2018is. The V band luminosity and the expansion velocity at 50 days post-explosion are −15.1 ± 0.2 mag (corrected for AV = 1.34 mag) and 1400 km s−1, classifying it as a low-luminosity SN II. The recombination phase in the V band is shorter, lasting around 110 days, and exhibits a steeper decline (1.0 mag per 100 days) compared to most other low-luminosity SNe II. Additionally, the optical and near-infrared spectra display hydrogen emission lines that are strikingly narrow, even for this class. The Fe II and Sc II line velocities are at the lower end of the typical range for low-luminosity SNe II. Semi-analytical modelling of the bolometric light curve suggests an ejecta mass of ∼8 M⊙, corresponding to a pre-supernova mass of ∼9.5 M⊙, and an explosion energy of ∼0.40 × 1051 erg. Hydrodynamical modelling further indicates that the progenitor had a zero-age main sequence mass of 9 M⊙, coupled with a low explosion energy of 0.19 × 1051 erg. The nebular spectrum reveals weak [O I] λλ6300,6364 lines, consistent with a moderate-mass progenitor, while features typical of Fe core-collapse events, such as He I, [C I], and Fe I, are indiscernible. However, the redder colours and low ratio of Ni to Fe abundance do not support an electron-capture scenario either. As a low-luminosity SN II with an atypically steep decline during the photospheric phase and remarkably narrow emission lines, SN 2018is contributes to the diversity observed within this population.
Growth of oysters (Crassostrea Sp.) at different stocking densities in Alue Naga Ponds, Banda Aceh
Authors: Rusydi Ichsan , Abdullah Abbas Muhammadar , Riska Dhia , Amelia Karla
Published: January 2025

Oysters are a coastal natural resource utilized by communities as a source of livelihood. This study aims to assess the growth in length and weight of oysters (Crassostrea sp.) under different stocking densities in ponds located in Alue Naga. The experimental method used was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three treatments, each repeated three times, consisting of densities of 30, 35, and 40 individuals per 1500 cm². Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), followed by Duncan's test. The results showed that different stocking densities significantly affected (P<0.05) the absolute length growth, absolute weight growth, and weekly length growth rate. The average results indicated that treatment A with a stocking density of 30 individuals per 1500 cm² achieved an absolute length of 45.51 mm, absolute weight growth of 35.23 grams, and a weekly length growth rate of 3.87 mm/week. Treatment B with a density of 35 individuals per 1500 cm² achieved an absolute length of 39.07 mm, absolute weight growth of 32.91 grams, and a weekly length growth rate of 3.25 mm/week. In contrast, treatment C with a density of 40 individuals per 1500 cm² resulted in an absolute length of 31.35 mm, absolute weight growth of 31.53 grams, and a weekly length growth rate of 2.61 mm/week. The highest growth rates were observed in treatment A with a density of 30 individuals per 1500 cm².
The abundance of microplastics in coral reef ecosystems in the waters of Krueng Raya, Aceh Besar
Authors: Ulfah Maria , Juliani Rika , Agustina Sri , Purnawan Syahrul , Malayana Intan , Muliari  , Miswari Nur , Yusrizal  , Irfannur
Published: January 2025

The Krueng Raya waters in Aceh Besar, which serve as a habitat for coral reef ecosystems, face the threat of microplastic pollution. This pollution is caused by human activities such as tourism, fishing, and domestic waste, leading to the generation of plastic waste and microplastics. Microplastics have the potential to disrupt the balance of marine ecosystems due to their non-degradable and toxic nature to organisms. This study aims to analyze the abundance and types of microplastics in sediment from coral reef ecosystems at three locations in Krueng Raya waters (Inong Bale, Ahmad Rhang Manyang, and Lhok Mee) and evaluate the correlation between microplastic abundance and live coral conditions. Data were collected in June 2021 using the probability sampling method, which ensures samples are logically and representatively selected from the microplastic population. Microplastic samples were collected around the coral reef area using a PVC pipe with a diameter of 10 cm. Field data were then analyzed in a marine biology laboratory using a microscope, categorizing the microplastics into three types:fragments, fibers, and films. Laboratory analysis showed an average microplastic abundance of 16,67 particles/kg, with fragments being the dominant type. Lhok Mee station exhibited the highest abundance (20,4 particles/kg) due to high levels of human activity. No correlation was found between microplastic abundance and live coral conditions, indicating the need for further research to understand this relationship. These findings underscore the importance of waste management to protect marine ecosystems.
Bathymetric characteristics in the Krueng Raba Lhok Nga and Krueng Leupung, Aceh Besar Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Setiawan Ichsan , Yuni Syarifah Meurah , Maulana Febri , Muttaqin Ichlasul , Rizwan Thaib
Published: January 2025

Depth information is a very important aspect for several studies of marine resource activities, both deep water and shallow water depths. Information on bathymetry is needed, especially in areas that have tourism potential such as waters in river basins that can be used as fishing areas, pond cultivation, and tourism areas. The purpose of this study was to determine the depth of the Krueng Raba and Krueng Leupung watersheds. This study used a conventional method by lowering lead weights to the bottom of the waters and then measuring them using a roll meter. Based on the results of the study, the bathymetry of the Krueng Raba watershed ranges from 0.95 m to 5.58 m, and Krueng Leupung ranges from 0.88 m to 4.10 m. The findings of variations in the watershed bathymetry are influenced by the morphology of the river and the surrounding land.
Genetic diversity of octopus (Octopus cyanea) in the Northern Waters of Aceh
Authors: Ramadhaniaty Mutia , Damora Adrian , Moula Intania
Published: January 2025

The octopus exhibits highly developed defensive adaptations, including the ability to camouflage itself to deceive predators. It undergoes two larval stages, during which it experiences wide dispersal influenced by ocean currents and oceanographic characteristics. One region with complex current dynamics is the northern waters of Aceh, specifically around Pulau Aceh, which are influenced by the currents of the Indian Ocean and the Andaman Sea. The objective of this study is to assess the genetic diversity of Octopus cyanea by comparing the Aceh population with those from Sri Lanka and Japan, which are the closest geographically. The analysis was conducted using the COI gene with HCO and LCO primers. Results indicate that the Aceh population exhibits the highest genetic diversity, while the Sri Lanka population shows the lowest diversity. Populations with higher genetic diversity tend to have better survival prospects, suggesting that the Octopus cyanea population in Aceh is in a healthy condition. Furthermore, the study reveals that the Aceh population shares a close genetic relationship with the Japanese population, with a similarity value of 0.4. These two populations share haplotypes, indicating genetic connectivity. The mixing of haplotypes in the Japanese population is likely due to larval dispersal and varying current circulation, which influences species diversity.
Preliminary study on screening and selection of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) from gastrointestinal tract of naleh fish (Barbonymus sp.)
Authors: Yulvizar Cut , Yunita Dewi , A Muchlizin Zainal , Suhartono Suhartono
Published: January 2025

The naleh fish (Barbonymus sp.) is an indigenous species found in Nagan Raya Regency, Aceh Province. The presence of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) in the gastrointestinal tract of the fish may potentially act as probiotics, thus promoting the growth of the naleh fish. The objective of this research is to isolate, characterise and select LAB through physiological testing. The research was conducted using a purposive sampling survey method and isolated the bacteria on selective media, namely Man, Rogosa, Sharpe (MRS) agar. The selection of physiological tests conducted included catalase tests, tests of the ability of the bacteria to survive at different temperatures, and tests of the effect of varying concentrations of NaCl. The research findings identified seven isolates with different colony characteristics of LAB. The morphology of the colonies was observed is punctiform (57.14%) and circular (42.85%). The colour is cream (14.28%) and white (85.71%). The edges were noted to be smooth (100%) and the elevation was observed to be flat (100%). The cell morphology is coccus - shaped (100%) and the bacteria are classified as Gram staining positive (100%). The growth of all LAB isolates from the gastrointestinal tract of the naleh fish is can survive by differences in temperature, NaCl concentration and catalase negative test.
Inventory of introduced fish species traded in Medan Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Batubara Agung Setia , Panggabean Anastasya Sorta , Rahmatsyah Rahmatsyah , Juliani Rita , Syarifuddin Syarifuddin , Muliari Muliari , Akmal Yusrizal , Irfannur Irfannur
Published: January 2025

Reports regarding introduced fish species traded in Medan have never been reported, even though the invasive impact of several species has occurred, especially in Lake Toba, North Sumatra. This research aims to collect data on the introduced fish species traded in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This research used a survey method by collecting data on introduced fish in 30 aquarium shops. The research was conducted from March to May 2024. The identified fish were then assessed for their frequency to determine their distribution percentage in aquarium shops in Medan. The results of the analysis showed that there were 55 species of introduced fish traded in Medan City which were classified into 46 genera, 29 families, 14 orders. The order Cichliformes dominates the number of species reaching 20%, followed by Cypriniformes 18%, Characiformes 13%, Siluriformes 13%, Osteoglossiformes 9%, Anabantiformes 6%, Cyprinodontiformes 5% and others 16% (species < 3%).
Indigofera sp. leaf flour stimulate milkfish growth performance (Chanos chanos)
Authors: Fazriansyah Putra Dedi , Astari Bella , Imelda Arisa Iko
Published: January 2025

Feed is one of the success factors in the aquaculture industry which is determined by the availability and quality of feed. Indigofera sp. is one of the nutrient-rich plants found in Indonesia and has the potential to be given as additional feed to milkfish. This study aims to investigate the effect of the use of Indigofera sp. leaf flour on the growth rate and survival of milkfish (Chanos chanos) in mixed feed. A 40 days experiment were conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD) with four treatments and four replications ie. treatments with Indigofera sp. leaf flour consisted of P1 (0% Indigofera sp. leaf flour), P2 (10% Indigofera sp. leaf flour), P3 (20% Indigofera sp. leaf flour) and P4 (30% Indigofera sp. leaf flour). The variables observed were absolute weight gain, absolute length gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, feed efficiency and survival. The experiment showed that the addition of Indigofera sp. leaf flour had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the growth and survival of milkfish as an artificial feed ingredient with the provision of 20% Indigofera sp. leaf flour resulting in more optimal growth in milkfish (Chanos chanos). Therefore, the use of Indigofera in formulated feed could be potential for fish farmer to enhance the efficiency of feed and growth of milkfish culture.
Periodic starvation provokes the growth performance and feed efficiency of jelawat fish (Leptobarbus hoevenii)
Authors: Abdullah Abbas Muhammadar , Hababil Misyania , Fazriansyah Putra Dedi , Abdul Wahab Gunawan , Nanda Defira Cut
Published: January 2025

This study aims to determine the effect of periodic starvation on feed efficiency and growth rate of Jelawat fish (Leptobarbus hoevenii) fingerlings. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used with four treatments and five replications, namely treatment A (control), treatment B (1 day of fasting and 1 day of feeding), treatment C (1 day of fasting and 2 days of feeding), treatment D (1 day fasting 3 days feeding). The results showed that periodic starvation had a significant effect (P<0.05) on absolute weight growth, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency (EP) and Survival Rate (SR) but had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the absolute length growth of Jelawat fish. This study showed that the optimum absolute growth values in length, absolute weight, specific growth rate, feed efficiency, and feed conversion ratio were in treatment D with absolute length growth values of 2.40 ± 0.07 cm, growth absolute weight 2.82 ± 0.13gram, specific growth rate 1.14 ± 0.04%/day, feed efficiency 99.03 ± 1.08% and feed conversion ratio 1.01 ± 0.01 respectively. Thus the starvation has a significant result in saving the feeding cost effectively.
CA 19-9 sezernierender extralobärer Sequester in der Form eines bifokalen Tumors des hinteren Mediastinums
Authors: Karampinis Ioannis , Galata Christian , Rößner Eric Dominic , Stamenovic Davor
Published: January 2025

Eine 60-jährige Patientin wurde zur weiteren Diagnostik einer Raumforderung des
hinteren Mediastinums vorgestellt. Die Raumforderung wurde als Zufallsbefund im Rahmen
einer CT-Thorax-Untersuchung diagnostiziert. Grund für die extern durchgeführte
Schnittbildgebung war ein erhöhter CA-19–9-Wert in einer Routine-Blutentnahme gewesen.
Zum Zeitpunkt der Erstvorstellung in unserer Klinik war die Raumforderung bereits 2-mal
biopsiert worden (einmal CT-gesteuert und einmal endosonografisch), aber die
Histopathologie war in beiden Fällen nicht zielführend. Mit der Patientin wurde die
Wiederholung der CT-gesteuerten Punktion und des transösophagealen Ultraschalls
besprochen. Auch in unserer Klinik haben die Biopsien keinen weiterführenden Befund
ergeben. Die Endosonografie hatte keine Infiltration des Ösophagus gezeigt. Mit der
Patientin wurde eine thorakoskopische Exploration besprochen. Der Eingriff wurde über
einen rechtsseitigen uniportal-thorakoskopischen Zugang begonnen. Nach Mobilisation der
Läsion vom rechten Unterlappen durch eine atypische Resektion wurde die Raumforderung
vom Zwerchfell und den mediastinalen Verwachsungen mobilisiert. Ein zuführendes Gefäß
von der Aorta descendens wurde ligiert, und die Patientin wurde umgelagert, um den
Eingriff von der linken Seite fortzuführen. Über einen linksseitigen
uniportal-thorakoskopischen Zugang wurde die Raumforderung vom Zwerchfell und der Aorta
descendens mobilisiert. Eine Invasion der linken Lunge konnte nicht nachgewiesen werden.
Nach Komplettierung der Mobilisation konnte die Raumforderung vollständig über den
linksseitigen Zugang geborgen werden. Die histopathologische Aufarbeitung des Präparates
bestätigte einen extralobären pulmonalen Sequester.