bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology of palm sugar trees (Arenga pinnata) at the various topography in South Sulawesi
Authors: Syahidah  , Soma Andang Suryana , Makkarennu  , Taskirawati Ira , Chairil  , Akbar Muhammad Fagil , Sulkifli  , Parasita Nur Rezy , Deradjat Muh. Ilham , Utama Aufar Rifky , Rachmat Ramadhan Muhammad Dandy
Published: February 2025

The palm sugar plant (Arenga pinnata) is versatile because all plant parts can be utilized. This plant also can grow in various soil conditions, except in acidic soils. The topography conditions of the area will affect palm sugar characteristics. This study aims to analyze the morphology of palm sugar based on the topography conditions of various areas in South Sulawesi Province. The research was carried out by analyzing the morphology of palm sugar with the topography conditions in each research area. The research results show that the growth in the four research areas has different morphologies, with the palm sugar tree growing in Bone Regency having the highest growth. Moreover, the diameter of the tapped inflorescence of palm trees growing in Sinjai Regency is the biggest. Regarding the topography conditions of the area of research, in general, they have met the growing requirements for palm sugar. Thus, it can be concluded that the different morphologies of palm sugar in the field of research are influenced not only by the region’s topography condition but also by other factors that are not specified yet in this study.
The Influence of Cinnamon Powder from Cinnamomum burmannii bark on quality and storage period of liquid sugar palm (Arenga longipes Mogea)
Authors: Manurung Harisyah , Hakim Luthfi , Batubara Ridwanti , Syahputra Mhd. Alvi , Lubis Yunida Syafriani
Published: February 2025

Liquid palm sugar is produced from Arenga longipes. Liquid palm sugar is easily oxidized than contaminated by fungi and bacteria. This study aims to measure the effectiveness of powdered cinnamon in inhibiting bacterial growth and its potential as a preservative for liquid palm sugar. Making liquid area sugar is done by boiling 5 liters of tapping sap for 4 hours at 100 °C until liquid palm sugar thickens. During the boiling of the sap, cinnamon powder was added with various concentrations, namely 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% (w/w). The results showed that the addition of cinnamon powder had no significant effect on water content, pH value and ash content. However, the addition of cinnamon powder had a very significant effect on the parameters of the water insoluble solid, and the antibacterial activity of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The most effective and economical results on the parameters of the anti-bacterial activity test were the addition of 2% cinnamon powder. Based on the results of this study it can be concluded that the addition of cinnamon powder can inhibit the growth of bacterial and has a longer storage period than without cinnamon powder treatment.
Analysis of the impact of halal tourism policy on the development of natural resources and the economy of local communities in the Lake Toba Region
Authors: Lumbanraja Victor , Kandias Saraan Muhammad Imanuddin , Moulita
Published: February 2025

The study investigates the impact of the halal tourism policy on natural resource development and the economy of local communities in the Lake Toba region, focusing on the predominantly Toba Batak population. By employing a mixed-method approach, including field observations and literature reviews, the research examines how the halal tourism policy affects local economic activities, cultural dynamics, and environmental sustainability. The findings indicate that while the halal tourism policy enhances the local economy by attracting Muslim tourists and fostering the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), it also encounters resistance from the Toba Batak community due to cultural concerns. Infrastructure limitations further challenge the policy’s implementation. The study underscores the need for effective community engagement, cultural sensitivity, and infrastructure development to ensure the policy’s success. Recommendations include promoting education about halal tourism, preserving traditional cultural practices, and fostering a collaborative approach among stakeholders. This research contributes valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners to balance economic development, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability in the Lake Toba region.
Potential of Malacca (Phyllanthus emblica L.) wood extracts as natural dyes for textiles
Authors: Risnasari Iwan , Fachrudin Khaira Amalia , Sitinjak Romario , Rangkuti Fatimah , Handoyo Agus
Published: February 2025

Exploration of plants in North Sumatra that have the potential to become natural textile dyes needs to be done. one of which is the Malacca plant (Phyllanthus emblica L.). The research methods used in this study include the extraction of Malacca bark and wood and its application to textiles through dyeing and eco-printing processes. The results showed that the wood bark produced a dark brown color and the wood produced a light brown color. Natural dyes from Malacca bark and wood also show good color stability against 80 times washing. indicated by the color difference value (ΔE) in the very small to medium category. Where in the ecoprint technique. aged bark has a fastness value of 4.37. young bark 2.79. aged wood 2.23. young wood 2.73 and in the dyeing technique. aged bark 3.88. young bark 3.18. aged wood 1.85. young wood 1.89. The interaction between plant parts and plant age did not significantly differ on the cokor difference value and color produced. Malacca wood and bark have antioxidant properties both in their extracts and after being applied to fabrics. Malacca plant extracts and fabrics treated with natural dyes from Malacca extracts also have antibacterial properties as indicated by the presence of an inhibition zone on bacterial growth media. Thus Malacca bark and wood have promising prospects as a source of environmentally friendly natural dyes.
Reduction of microplastics through waste management: Evaluation of water quality and health risks in the communication policy of the ministry of environment and forestry
Authors: Kurniawati Dewi , Dalimunthe Maulana Andinata , Kholil Syukur , Ritonga Aulia Rahma , Pratama Teguh Agum
Published: February 2025

This article discusses the reduction of microplastics through waste management in Indonesia, focusing on the urgency of the issue, research methodology, and obtained results. The urgency of this research is high due to the negative impacts of microplastics on ecosystems and human health. Microplastics, plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have contaminated water bodies and biota that become food sources, posing health risks through exposure to contaminants such as BPA and phthalates that disrupt hormonal functions. The methodology used is qualitative research with an in-depth phenomenological approach, involving in-depth interviews and focused group discussions with various stakeholders, including government officials, researchers, environmental activists, and local communities. Secondary data were obtained from government documents, previous research reports, journal articles, and news media. Data analysis was conducted using the methods of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, involving data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing/verification, with data validity tested through source triangulation. The results of the research indicate that current waste management policies need to be strengthened to effectively address the issue of microplastics. Stricter and more specific regulations are required to reduce the production and release of microplastics from consumer and industrial products. Additionally, public education on the dangers of microplastics and the importance of recycling is key to reducing the volume of plastics that end up in the environment. Collaboration between the government, communities, and businesses through technological initiatives such as the Surplus application and the FoodCycle Indonesia program shows great potential in supporting Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs] related to Zero Hunger, Responsible Consumption and Production, and Climate Action. This approach is not only relevant for the city of Medan but can also be adapted by other regions facing similar waste management issues.
Discovering the potential of endophytic bacteria isolated from Styrax paralleloneurus as IAA production
Authors: Susilowati Arida , Simarmata Rumella , Khairina Yeni , Oktarina Firda , Saputri Wina Nur , Larekeng Siti Halimah , Widowati Tiwit , Elfiati Deni , Christita Margaretta
Published: February 2025

Endophytic bacteria have been extensively researched for their ability to produce phytohormones and provide essential nutrients for plant growth. However, there have been a few explorations of endophytic bacteria from the Toba Frankincense plant (Styrax paralleloneurus), the primary benzoin resin source in Sumatra, Indonesia. This research aims to identify endophytic bacteria with the ability to produce IAA from S. paralleloneurus stems. This study isolated, characterized, and molecularly identified bacteria from tapped and untapped S. paralleloneurus stems. Tests were conducted to assess their potential as plant growth promoters, including IAA production. Our research successfully identified Micrococcus aloeverae and Bacillus aerius as potential plant growth-promoting bacteria, capable of producing 15.63 and 3.96 ppm of IAA, respectively. Thus, this study will also serve as a reference for understanding how tapping the frankincense sap affects the ability of endophytic bacteria to produce IAA and dissolve phosphate.
The economic value and marketing chain of gambir (Uncaria gambir Roxb) in Pakpak Bharat Regency, North Sumatra
Authors: Sucipto Tito , Siboro Priskian , Alfaritsi Muhammad Afif , Iswanto Apri Heri
Published: February 2025

The gambir plant (Uncaria gambir Roxb), which yields gambir extract, is one of the non-timber forest products. Pakpak Bharat Regency is the biggest producer of gambir in North Sumatera and one of its main commodities is the gambir plant. The low cost of gambir products—roughly IDR 3,500 per piece—and the lack of a set price for gambir are the issues facing farmers in the gambir industry. The purpose of this study was to examine Gambir’s marketing chain and economic worth. A questionnaire was used to conduct interviews in order to collect data. For 60 gambir farmers, the census method was used to ascertain the respondents. According to the study’s findings, gambir has an annual economic value of IDR 2,614,560,000, or IDR 246,302,880 each month. In Pakpak Bharat Regency, there are two gambir marketing chains type: 1) gambir farmers sell directly to consumers, and 2) gambir farmers sell to collectors before selling to consumers. Because the production volume exceeded both the pricing BEP and the production break-even point (BEP), and the resultant R/C ratio was larger than 1, namely 9.66, the production of Gambir in Pakpak Bharat Regency was deemed feasible. By improving the quality and quantity of gambir and treating gambir plants further to produce the highest quality gambir products, farmer groups can be formed to increase the economic value and price of gambir while maintaining the same level of quality in marketing.
Batch operations for turbidity reduction in Babura River using carbonized peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) shells with various particle sizes
Authors: Haryanto Bode , Hanum Farida , Siahaan Bungaran , Alexander Vikram , Siahaan Timoty Anugrah , Inkreasinta Avenia
Published: February 2025

The brownish color of river water indicates poor quality and can harm the ecosystem because of high turbidity. This study aims to observe the effect of the particle size of peanut shell carbon particles (Arachis hypogaea L.) on the ability to reduce the turbidity value of Babura River water. The particle size variations of carbonized groundnut shells used are 50/70, 70/100, and 100/120 mesh. Water volume used 100 mL. The time interval was 5 h. The weight variations employed were 1, 2, and 3 g. Sampling variations were conducted throughout the morning, afternoon, and night. The research stages are making carbonized groundnut shells and batch operations for turbidity reduction. The results indicated that a particle size of 100/120 mesh with a 3 g mass of carbonized groundnut shells could reduce the turbidity from 78.4 NTU to 5.1 NTU. Hence, the pseudo-second order in measuring the reduction in turbidity.
Effect of reaction temperature on biodiesel production from refined bleached and deodorized palm olein using heterogeneous catalyst from indigofera (Indigofera zollingeriana) leaves ash
Authors: Nova Silvia , Taslim  , Manurung Renita , Alexander Vikram , Burmana Anggara Dwita , Rosyadi Erlan
Published: February 2025

Biodiesel was produced in considering the best operating conditions as an environment-friendly alternative fuel. One of the operating conditions in biodiesel production is reaction temperature, which influences increasing biodiesel yield. This research aims to study the reaction temperature affects biodiesel production by heterogeneous catalysts from indigofera leaves ash. The research procedure consisted of preparing an indigofera leaves ash catalyst with a particle size of 100 mesh, which was put inside a 700 °C furnace to calcined for 3 hours. The transesterification process of biodiesel involving refined bleached and deodorized palm olein was heated with temperature variations of 55, 60, and 65 °C, then methanol was added with a molar ratio of 9:1 to the oil and 3 wt% catalyst. The reaction was carried out in a container with stirring using a magnetic stirrer at 300 rpm for 120 minutes. Based on the research results, the best yield was obtained at 94.2% obtained at a temperature operating condition of 60 °C. Based on gas chromatography results, biodiesel’s major composition is palmitic acid (C16:0) and oleic acid (C18:1), which are 38.79% and 44.96%, respectively.
Sustainable forestry: The dual effects of eucalyptus plantations on economy and ecology
Authors: Sembiring Nurhayati , Herlim Christian , Lubis Abdillah Sani , Sitohang Diana Carolina
Published: February 2025

The global increase in the use of forest plantations is one of the solutions to meet the demand for wood and its derivative products. Among the various tree species, Eucalyptus is a popular choice due to its fast growth and high productivity. However, Eucalyptus has also generated controversy regarding its impact on local economies and ecology. This study analyses the economic and ecological impacts of Eucalyptus plantations, widely adopted for their fast growth and significant timber production. The research evaluates both the economic benefits, such as increased local income and job creation, and the negative ecological effects, including soil degradation, decreased biodiversity, and water cycle disruptions. The study used literature review, analysing 28 articles and 4 books from various countries between 2016 and 2024. The results highlight the dual impact of Eucalyptus plantations: while they significantly contribute to local economies, they also pose risks to environmental sustainability. The discussion emphasizes the importance of adopting sustainable forestry practices, such as agroforestry, to balance these impacts. The study concludes with recommendations for policy frameworks that integrate economic growth with environmental conservation strategies to optimize the benefits of Eucalyptus plantations without compromising ecological integrity.
Digital transformation of Lake Toba tourism: Local wisdom-based applications and SEM-analysis on GIS integration in creative economy
Authors: Harahap Kartini , Wirata Gede , Nurhayati  , Damanik Darwin , Udin Ahmad Faqih
Published: February 2025

Digital transformation has become a crucial aspect in the development of the global tourism sector, with the need for integration of technology and local wisdom increasingly urgent. This study aims to explore the influence of digital transformation on Lake Toba tourism with a local wisdom-based approach and SEM analysis on GIS integration in the creative economy. Through a survey of 384 respondents, validity and reliability analysis was conducted using Cronbach’s Alpha, while SEM analysis used model fit index, path coefficients, and t-values. The results show that technology adoption, service quality, and tourist experience positively influence the economic impact of tourism. The tourist experience variable has the most significant influence on economic impact. The implication is that the integration of local wisdom in digital transformation can increase the competitiveness of Lake Toba tourism globally. This research provides a foundation for the development of more effective policies and strategies in utilizing tourism potential by considering the uniqueness of local culture and the application of modern technology.
Biodiesel synthesis from palm cooking oil utilising sulfuric acid catalyst in a circular microreactor: Optimisation using response surface method
Authors: Purwanto Edy , Widianto Aloisiyus Yuli
Published: February 2025

Biodiesel, a renewable and biodegradable fuel, has gained attention as a viable alternative to traditional petroleum-based diesel. Palm oil is an appealing raw material for biodiesel production due to its high oil yield, availability, and favourable fatty acid profile. Microreactor technology has improved the efficiency and control of chemical reactions, especially in biodiesel production. The key challenge is optimising reaction conditions to maximise Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) content while reducing the kinematic viscosity of the oil. To address this, the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed. The effects of critical input variables such as catalyst loading, reaction temperature, and oil-to-methanol molar ratio on FAME yield and kinematic viscosity were analysed, and the optimal conditions were identified. Transesterification was carried out using a sulfuric acid catalyst in a circular microreactor, with a central composite design examining three input variables and two output variables. Results showed that catalyst loading, reaction temperature, and oil-to-methanol molar ratio significantly increased FAME content and lowered kinematic viscosity. The optimal conditions were determined to be 4.7% catalyst loading, a temperature of 66.8°C, and an oil-to-methanol molar ratio of 1:10.
Enhancing responsible production and sustainable clean water supply: applying OEE and six big losses analysis in environmental engineering
Authors: Sari Yenny , Rosiawan Muhammad , Aulia Rifda , Purwanto Edy
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to identify production losses that occur in the Clearator Unit in one of the state-owned drinking water treatment companies so that the implementation of improvements can increase the effectiveness of the process. The Clearator Unit, as the object of the research, is a flocculation building used to accelerate the sedimentation in processing raw water into usable water. The methodology used to achieve the research objectives is the Six Big Losses and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) approach for production loss analysis. In addition, quality tools such as the Ishikawa Diagram and Linear Regression were used to identify the causes of losses and formulate improvement solutions. From the results of this study (based on August 2022), it was found that the losses were “reduced speed” and “defect process”, with OEE values of 37%. This value indicated that the effectiveness of the Clearator Unit is below the standard limit of world-class company (OEE value should be more than 85%). The proposed improvement was to create a standardized dosing usage of Aluminium Sulfate (alum) to improve the water output quality. The alum standard dose based on the equation of the regression test results was: “decreased water turbidity (NTU)” = 2,497 + 0,00099 “alum usage (kg)”. This solution implementation can affect the production of higher-quality clean water (SDG6) and more responsible production governance (SDG12).
Diversified utilization of rice field functions for agritourism and education development in Denai Lama Village: Economic sustainability innovation in era 4.0
Authors: Triani Emi , Bangun Immanuel Cristwo
Published: February 2025

This research was conducted in the context of the increasing demand for natural resources in the era of globalization and digital transformation, while their availability is increasingly limited. One of the innovative solutions implemented is the diversification of agricultural functions, one of which is the diversification of the function of rice fields, which combines agricultural activities with education and tourism. The purpose of this research is to examine the implementation of rice field diversification in Denai Lama Village and evaluate its impact on the economic sustainability and welfare of the local community. This research uses a qualitative method with a descriptive approach to understanding the phenomenon of land function diversification holistically. The results showed that Denai Lama Village has great potential for agritourism and teaching land development. Agritourism programs that include farming, traditional markets, and traditional music and dance performances have succeeded in increasing farmers’ income, strengthening community relations, and promoting environmental conservation. The use of digital technology in agritourism promotion and management has also had a positive impact on public awareness and tourist visits, thereby improving the economic and social welfare of the people of Denai Lama Village.
The properties of green polybag from empty fruit bunch compost and wet decanter solid with chitosan as additive
Authors: Hasibuan Ichsan Habibi , Harahap Hamidah , Iriany
Published: February 2025

Polybags are a seed planting medium that is generally made of plastic. The use of plastic-based polybag is considered less environmentally friendly because of the presence of plastic packaging, which will be thrown away when the seeds are transferred from the polybag to the ground. Therefore, it is necessary to look for alternative plastics in the form of organic materials that are more environmentally friendly when making polybags. This research aims to produce green polybags based on a mixture of empty fruit bunch compost (EFBC) and wet decanter solid (WDS) with chitosan adhesive, as well as analyzing the properties of the resulting polybags including density, moisture content, water absorption capacity, pH, biodegradation, and rate growth. The production of green polybags was carried out with EFBC:WDS ratio of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50. The results showed that increasing the amount of EFBC will increase the density, moisture content, and pH of green polybags, but reduced the absorption capacity and biodegradation of green polybags. The best green polybag composition was obtained with an EFBC:WDS ratio of 70:30, with a density of 0.70 g/cm3, moisture content of 10.62%, absorption capacity of 8.30%, pH of 6.6, and biodegradation of 43.41%. The use of green polybags resulted in wheatgrass growth of up to 11.4 cm on the 14th day.
Haplotype diversity of Pandanus tectorius Parkinson from North Sumatran subregions using trnL-trnF intergenic spacer
Authors: Hutasuhut Melfa Aisyah , Pasaribu Nursahara , Siregar Etti Sartina , Fitmawati
Published: February 2025

Pandanaceae, comprising plants distributed across coastal regions and islands from the Pacific Ocean to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, is known for its ecological and economic significance. Pandanus tectorius Parkinson, a widely recognized species within this family, serves multifunctional purposes ranging from traditional and modern medicinal uses to household materials. However, the genetic diversity and population structure of P. tectorius in Sumatra remain underexplored, particularly in specific subregions, potentially leading to the emergence of new subpopulations due to geographical isolation from Pacific Ocean relatives. This study aims to analyze three populations from North Sumatra subregions namely Bagan Serdang in Pantai Labu, Deli Serdang Regency; Tabuyung in Muara Batang Gadis, Mandailing Natal Regency; and Binasi in Sorkam Barat, Tapanuli Tengah Regency, using the trnL-trnF intergenic spacer. Genetic parameters assessed include haplotype number, haplotype diversity, nucleotide diversity, and fixation index (Fst). A TCS network was constructed to visualize accession distribution among populations and infer potential origins or relationships among subpopulations. Results reveal significant intrapopulation diversity with notably high genetic variability in Bagan Serdang and overall North Sumatra, indicating a high frequency and potential greater genetic diversity in this region. In contrast, regions such as Australia, New Caledonia, and Fiji show smaller circles, while the presence of distinct colors within the same haplotype groups suggests some genetic sharing or common ancestry among these regions. North Sumatra stands out with the highest genetic diversity, as indicated by the extended connections in the network.
Terrestrial mammal activity in the post-rehabilitation Halaban monitoring area using camera trap data
Authors: Ardhina Mahdiyyah , Berliani Kaniwa , Tanjung Masitta
Published: February 2025

Terrestrial wildlife species are important taxa in the recovery of ecosystems following dam removal. Their presence can shape ecosystem recovery, signal restoration of ecosystem function, and influence food web dynamics and nutrient transfer. This study investigated terrestrial mammal communities within the rehabilitation area of Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia, using camera trap data collected between May and December 2023. The results revealed a diverse group of mammals, including endangered species, with distinct activity patterns. Eight terrestrial mammal species were present, with the most dominant being Sus scrofa. Only one of the four keystone species of TNGL, Elephas maximus sumatranus, was present. Overlapping activity patterns among predator species suggest potential interactions and resource partitioning. These findings underscore the importance of habitat restoration for biodiversity conservation and highlight the need for ongoing monitoring to assess the long-term impacts of rehabilitation efforts on mammal communities.
Estimation and evaluation of potential evapotranspiration calculation models in Medan City
Authors: Anggraini Novita , Bagus  , Slamet Bejo , Anna Nelly
Published: February 2025

Potential evapotranspiration (PET) is defined as the evaporation of water in conditions where air availability is not a limiting factor. PET can be explained using several empirical formulas with calculations based on weather element data such as air temperature, relative humidity, evaporation, duration of sunshine, and wind speed. This study plays a role in evaluating eight models to estimate PET that is suitable to be used for Medan City. The materials used in this research were daily and monthly climate data for the period 2016-2020 from Indonesia Agency for Meteorology Climatology and Geophysics Region I Medan. The average value of the estimated potential evapotranspiration rate used as a reference (the Penman-Monteith model) is 14.41 mm/day, and other estimation models such as the Penman, Thornthwaite, David, Presscot, Blaney-Criddle, Kharuffa, and Remanenko models have values of 14.77 mm/day, 15.77 mm/day, 2.34 mm/day, 3.17 mm/day, 5.72 mm/day, 6.95 mm/day, and 8.43 mm/day, respectively. The highest RMSE value is in the David model, which is 12.39, and the lowest is in the Penman model, which is 0.97. The Thornthwaite (r = 0.65) and Blaney-Criddle (0.69) models have moderate correlation strength, the David (r = 0.73), Presscot (r = 0.72), Kharuffa (r = 0.75), and Remanenko (r = 0.80) models have strong correlation strength, and the Penman (r = 0.98) model has a very strong correlation strength.
Diversity of hornbill species (Bucerotidae) at Soraya Research Station, Subulussalam City, Aceh Province
Authors: Zahrah Ma’rifatin , Jumilawaty Erni , Halimah Nur
Published: February 2025

Hornbills have a very important role in preserving nature. However, currently the hornbill population is decreasing, which could have a negative impact on its sustainability. The aim of this research is to analyze the species diversity index, species evenness and dominance of hornbills (Bucerotidae) found at the Soraya Research Station. Data collection was carried out using direct observation methods, namely the line transect method and point count method, and indirect observation, namely the sound recording method. The hornbill species found at the Soraya research station based on direct observations are Buceros rhinoceros, Rhinoplax vigil, Anthracoceros albirostris, Anthracoceros malayanus and Rhyticeros undulatus. The hornbill species diversity index is 1.42, which means the value of species diversity is medium. The evenness value for the hornbill species is 0.88, which is included in the maximum or high evenness. The dominance index value obtained was 0.271, which is considered low dominance.
Araceae diversity in Universitas Sumatera Utara’s arboretum
Authors: Susilowati Arida , Elfiati Deni , Ginting Nurindah , Ginting Ida Mallia
Published: February 2025

Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) Arboretum is a green space established for conservation and educational purposes. Over time, the USU arboretum became a complex ecosystem with various species appearing in it, one of which is the Araceae family. The aim of the research is to investigate the diversity of Araceae at the USU Arboretum. To determine the diversity and abundance of Araceae, a census was used in this study. Eight species of Araceae, including Dieffenbachia bowmanii, Alocasia macrorrhizos, Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, Caladium bicolor, Colocasia esculenta, Lasia spinosa, Syngonium podophyllum, and Typhonium blumei, are found in the arboretum. With a Relative Density (RD) of 59.41%, C. esculenta was the species that attained the highest density. The species diversity and evenness indices were classified as low with values obtained respectively of 0.75 and 0.36, while the species dominance index was classified as high (C=0.80).
Potential and distribution of Sikkam trees (Bischofia javanica Blume) in Sibolangit Nature Park, Sibolangit District, Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra Province
Authors: Rambey Ridahati , Sitio Abednego , Rahmawaty  , Suratman Mohd Nazip , Rauf Abdul , Mauli Nababan Esther Sorta , Delvian  , Ismail Mohd Hasmadi , Gendaseca Seca , Sutomo  , Simanjuntak Cindy Romyani
Published: February 2025

Vegetation analysis in forest areas is intended to determine the vegetation structure of an area, species composition, and distribution patterns. Sibolangit Nature Tourism Park (SNTP) is an area that has various types of flora including cycad trees (Bischofia javanica Blume). This study aims to analyze the potential of Sikkam trees, analyze the association of Sikkam trees (B. javanica Blume) with other vegetation in their habitat and evaluate the distribution of cycad trees (B. javanica Blume) in Sibolangit Nature Park (SNP), Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra. The method used in this study is the path method with a plot line with a path length of 20 m x 20 m on the path placed several measuring plots. For vegetation analysis data is done by making a plot size of 2 x 2 meters as many as 62 plots. Information on the distribution of cycad trees is obtained by storing the coordinates of cycad trees on GPS. The potential population of cycad trees is divided into 4 levels, namely at the seedling, sapling, pole and tree levels. Plant species associated with cycad trees were found to be 17 tree species where the highest association was found in Suren (Toona sureni) and Tampu Balik Angin (Mallotus paniculatus), while the lowest association was found in Angsana (Pterocarpus indicus). The distribution of sikkam trees in Sibolangit SNP obtained 7 distribution points.
Spatial distribution of flood vulnerability in Belawan Watershed, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia
Authors: Slamet Bejo , Anggraini Novita , Akbar Muhammad Syawal
Published: February 2025

Flooding is one of the natural disasters that often occurs in Indonesia, especially during the rainy season. Floods cause losses in the form of casualties and economic losses. Mapping the distribution of flood vulnerability in a watershed area is essential to mitigating flooding and reducing disaster risk. The Belawan watershed is one of the watersheds that must recover its carrying capacity, and floods often occur in this area. This study uses geographic information systems to identify the spatial distribution of flood vulnerability in the Belawan watershed. The method used is by weighting and scoring the parameters of slope, elevation, rainfall, soil type, distance from the river, and land cover. The results showed five classes of flood vulnerability. Upstream areas show low flood vulnerability, while downstream areas have high flood vulnerability. Moderate vulnerability dominates the Belawan watershed, especially in areas with flat to gentle slopes with elevations below 50 meters.
Identification of microplastics in the digestive tract of Great Egret (Egretta alba) in Percut Sei Tuan, North Sumatra
Authors: Jumilawaty Erni , Yunasfi  , Munir Erman , Khairunnisa  , Dewinta Astrid Fauzia , Abdillah Nasution Ahmad Luthfi
Published: February 2025

Microplastics are plastic waste particles that enter aquatic environments and subsequently break down into smaller fragments. The presence of microplastics in aquatic birds can lead to reduced fat deposits, increased chemical toxicity, physical damage to the intestines, and negative impacts on reproduction and survival, especially for species that feed in aquatic areas. Tanjung Rejo is a significant stopover site for waterbirds and an ecotourism destination. The objective of this research was to analyze and identify the shape, color, and size of microplastics in the digestive tract of great egrets found in Percut Sei Tuan. The results indicated that the great egrets (Egretta alba) had 15 microplastic particles in their stomachs and 13 particles in their intestines, with fibers or microfibers being the most common type of microplastics. The presence of microplastics in both the stomach and intestines shows that the birds are contaminated by plastic waste, reflecting significant pollution in their environment. This contamination threatens animal health, causing issues from organ damage to physical deformities. It is essential to address this pollution to protect and restore ecosystems, ensuring the survival of the wildlife within them.
Natural tourism development strategies using SWOT analysis in Telagah Village, Langkat Regency
Authors: Fadhilla Suri , Latifah Siti , Simatupang Gusto Piatama
Published: February 2025

Identification of natural tourism potential in the Telagah Village area is one of the important things to do, to find out the distribution of natural tourism and plan its development strategy. After the eruption of Mount Sinabung in 2010 until now, many tourist attractions have emerged that rely on the panorama of Mount Sinabung as a tourist attraction. This study aims to mapping the natural tourism potential in Telagah Village using GIS and development strategy using the SWOT approach. The tool used in determining tourist attraction development strategies is using SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats). Telagah Village has natural tourist attractions that are well managed, namely Svarga Simelir, Pamah View, Pamah Simelir Cottage, Jendela Bambu Leuser, Rumah Ladang, Danau Karona Sakti and Taman Wisata Syari Simelir. The strategy that can be applied in the natural tourism area around Telagah Village is the SO (Strength/Opportunity) strategy.
Applying Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology to determine land cover in Pabatu Village, Padang Hulu District, Tebing Tinggi, North Sumatra
Authors: Arinah Hafizah , Afifah Nur
Published: February 2025

Classifying land cover is one of the many fields in which remote sensing has found extensive application. Pabatu Village, located in the Padang Hulu Sub-district of Tebing Tinggi City, North Sumatra Province, is situated within the PTPN-IV plantation area and is bisected by the Trans-Sumatra Highway. As a result, the neighbourhood grew and businesses opened up, providing food and other necessities to the locals, who depend on PTPN-IV, including farmers and plantation workers. The purpose of this study is to categorize the classification of land cover in Pabatu Village and the characteristics of each land cover in Pabatu Village. Drone were used to take aerial photos in the Pabatu village area for the research. Orthophoto data from Agisoft Metashape software was then used to visually interpret and map visually using orthophoto data. According to the study’s findings, Pabatu Village has 12 different land cover classifications that can be recognized visually using field checks, data collection, and field observations in addition to 9 elements of interpretation (color, hue, dimensions, shadow, place, texture, pattern, shape, and association). The twelve categories of land cover that have been identified are water body, shrub, street, field, yard, settlement, graveyard, agriculture, mixed dry land farming, gas station, open land, and vegetation.
Introduction
Authors: Jansen Laura
Published: February 2025

This introduction brings into critical relief Sontag’s tangent connections with antiquity. It begins with a preface composed in 1996, in which Sontag looks back on her profile as a writer, her insatiable pursuit of knowledge, and the intellectual passion that feeds into her work. This section, moreover, establishes a first tangent point of contact between Sontag’s erotic approach to writing and knowledge and poet-classicist Anne Carson’s writings on ancient and modern eros, which Sontag happens to admire deeply. The discussion next turns to the concepts of tangentiality and obliquity and, in particular, how these idioms offer a prism through which to capture the tenor and inflections of Sontag’s classicism, together with the similarly oblique approaches that this volume adopts. A related section then compares the tangent forms of reading explored throughout this study with the rubric of reception. It raises the question of whether the essays in this volume should be considered contributions to classical reception studies, or whether they are better understood as exercises in tangent connectivity, more in tune with recent research on parallel, indirect, and/or (nearly) contactless modes of comparison. This introduction closes with an outline of the volume’s thematic scope and aims.
The Morality of Style
Authors: Gramps Adrien
Published: February 2025

This essay explores a tangential crossing of paths between Sontag and the younger Seneca on the topic of style and its relation to the ethical. Sontag’s essay ‘On Style’ challenges the subordination of style to content in contemporary criticism, proposing that the abstraction of ‘content’ as separable from style (and form) creates a false dichotomy which fails to do justice to our experience of art. This essay argues that Seneca proves an unlikely ally for this project in his Moral Letters, which can be read as a discursive enactment of philosophical ‘stylishness’.
Heterogenous long-term health and social outcomes of type 1 diabetes - A full population 30-year observational cohort study
Authors: Hiilamo Aapo , Metsä-Simola Niina , Dierker Philipp , Martikainen Pekka , Myrskyla Mikko
Published: February 2025

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is known to have adverse long-term health and social outcomes, but the modifying factors are largely unknown. We investigate to what extent T1D outcomes are modified by area-, household-, and individual-level social and economic characteristics in Finland. National registers from 1987 to 2020 were used to identify all 3,048 children with T1D diagnosed at age seven to 17 and matched controls (n=78,883). Using causal forests, we estimated the average association between T1D and adult health, social, and economic outcomes at ages 28-30, and the modifying roles of more than 30 covariates. Individuals with T1D were more likely to be deceased (2.3% vs. 0.9% in the control group), to use antidepressants (17% vs. 13%), and to be unpartnered (36% vs. 32%), and had more months of unemployment (1.18 vs. 1.02) and lower annual income (25,697 euros vs. 27,453 euros), but not significantly lower educational attainment (10.8% vs. 10.3% with only basic education). T1D had a heterogenous association with all outcomes except mortality and income, but no specific population subgroup was vulnerable across all outcomes. However, women with T1D had particularly high rates of antidepressant use, and individuals from low socioeconomic families were more likely to be unpartnered.
Legumes vary strongly in their quality as hosts for parasitic plants: interactions between the root hemiparasite Rhinanthus alectorolophus and 30 legume species
Authors: Moncalvillo B , Sandner T M , Matthies D
Published: February 2025

Background and aims

Host identity can strongly affect the performance of root hemiparasitic plants. Legumes have frequently been observed to be particularly beneficial hosts and it has been suggested that they are in general good hosts due to their association with rhizobia, but exceptions have been observed.

Methods

We studied the interactions of the root hemiparasite Rhinanthus alectorolophus with 30 legume species. We related parasite performance and morphology to traits of uninfected hosts and the number and size of haustoria. We also analysed sections of haustoria quantitatively using morphometrics.

Key results

There was enormous variation in the biomass and other traits of R. alectorolophus with the different legume species. The suitability of a legume species as a host had a significant phylogenetic component (Pagel's λ= 0.51). Parasite performance increased with the biomass of uninfected hosts. In contrast, host root traits explained little of the variation in parasite performance and there was no anatomical evidence of defence against infection. Parasite biomass was very strongly and positively related to the number of haustoria formed, but part of the variation due to host identity could not be explained by the host traits studied and the number of haustoria, suggesting a role for variation in the quality of compounds provided by the hosts. Damage to the hosts increased with mean parasite mass, but some legumes were tolerant of parasite attack. Sensitivity of the hosts to parasitism showed only a very weak phylogenetic signal (λ < 0.01).

Conclusions

Legumes are not universally good hosts for root hemiparasites. Instead their quality as hosts ranges from very beneficial to very poor. Moreover, clades within the legumes differ in their suitability as hosts for hemiparasites. Parasites grow best with fast growing legumes that quickly produce large root systems with which many and large haustoria are formed.
Struggling to Be Seen: The Journey for Support While Living with Alopecia
Authors: Long Amy , Beselaar Zelmarie , Conroy Keavy , Fleming Sarah , Hanley Geoff , Quigley Claire , Harnett Clare
Published: February 2025

Alopecia areata can cause significant psychological and financial challenges, as outlined by a patient’s perspective. In Ireland, financial assistance for hair replacement products is available, but eligibility criteria exclude many groups, such as children with non-chemotherapy-induced alopecia. Expanding the scope of support could better address the needs of these individuals and align Ireland’s policies with more inclusive approaches seen in other countries.
Stretch regulation of β2-Adrenoceptor signalling in cardiomyocytes requires caveolae
Authors: Fu Jiarong , Mansfield Catherine , Diakonov Ivan , Judina Aleksandra , Delahaye Matthew , Bhogal Navneet , Sanchez-Alonso Jose L , Kamp Timothy , Gorelik Julia
Published: February 2025

Aims

Caveolin-3 is essential for the formation of caveolae in cardiomyocytes. Caveolar microdomains have been shown to regulate the distribution of signalling proteins such as beta-adrenoceptors (βAR) and may act as membrane reserves to protect the cell from damage during the mechanical stretch. Myocardial stretch occurs during haemodynamic overload and may be normal (e.g. exercise) or pathological (e.g. heart failure); therefore, it is important to understand the effect of stretch on signalling pathways associated with mechanosensitive structures, such as caveolae. In this study, we investigate the role of caveolae in regulating the effect of stretch on βAR-signalling.

Methods and results

We used osmotic swelling of isolated rat ventricular cardiomyocytes as a method to stretch the cell membrane and investigate the effect of βAR stimulation on cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) activity and contractility. βAR response was measured using a Förster Resonance Energy Transfer reporter for the second messenger cAMP and using CytoCypher for the measurement of cell contractility. β1AR and β2AR blockers were used to selectively allow stimulation of β2AR and β1AR, respectively. We also investigated the effect of stretch on βAR response to isoprenaline stimulation in left ventricular trabeculae dissected from control and cardiac-specific caveolin-3 knock-out mice (Cav3KO). Stretching trabeculae produces increased baseline adenylyl cyclase activity and a higher level of cAMP and a greater β2AR-induced positive inotropy after stimulation of the β2AR but not β1AR, by isoprenaline. Similar findings were confirmed for isolated myocytes subjected to hypoosmotic conditions. In isolated cardiomyocytes, caveolae depletion using methyl-beta-cyclodextrin or Cav3KO abolished the increase in β2AR response induced by stretch.

Conclusion

Our study reveals a stretch-regulation of the β2AR signalling pathway, which requires functional caveolae. This indicates caveolae are mechanosensitive membrane domains that undergo structural and functional changes in response to stretch, thus leading to mechanical regulation of caveolae-associated signalling pathways.
Detecting deviations from Kingman coalescence using 2-site frequency spectra
Authors: Fenton Eliot F , Rice Daniel P , Novembre John , Desai Michael M
Published: February 2025

Demographic inference methods in population genetics typically assume that the ancestry of a sample can be modeled by the Kingman coalescent. A defining feature of this stochastic process is that it generates genealogies that are binary trees: no more than 2 ancestral lineages may coalesce at the same time. However, this assumption breaks down under several scenarios. For example, pervasive natural selection and extreme variation in offspring number can both generate genealogies with “multiple-merger” events in which more than 2 lineages coalesce instantaneously. Therefore, detecting violations of the Kingman assumptions (e.g. due to multiple mergers) is important both for understanding which forces have shaped the diversity of a population and for avoiding fitting misspecified models to data. Current methods to detect deviations from Kingman coalescence in genomic data rely primarily on the site frequency spectrum (SFS). However, the signatures of some non-Kingman processes (e.g. multiple mergers) in the SFS are also consistent with a Kingman coalescent with a time-varying population size. Here, we present a new statistical test for determining whether the Kingman coalescent with any population size history is consistent with population data. Our approach is based on information contained in the 2-site joint frequency spectrum (2-SFS) for pairs of linked sites, which has a different dependence on the topologies of genealogies than the SFS. Our statistical test is global in the sense that it can detect when the genome-wide genetic diversity is inconsistent with the Kingman model, rather than detecting outlier regions, as in selection scan methods. We validate this test using simulations and then apply it to demonstrate that genomic diversity data from Drosophila melanogaster is inconsistent with the Kingman coalescent.