bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards unbiased skin cancer classification using deep feature fusion
Authors: Abdulredah Ali Atshan , Fadhel Mohammed A. , Alzubaidi Laith , Duan Ye , Kherallah Monji , Charfi Faiza
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces SkinWiseNet (SWNet), a deep convolutional neural network designed for the detection and automatic classification of potentially malignant skin cancer conditions. SWNet optimizes feature extraction through multiple pathways, emphasizing network width augmentation to enhance efficiency. The proposed model addresses potential biases associated with skin conditions, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones or excessive hair, by incorporating feature fusion to assimilate insights from diverse datasets. Extensive experiments were conducted using publicly accessible datasets to evaluate SWNet’s effectiveness.This study utilized four datasets-Mnist-HAM10000, ISIC2019, ISIC2020, and Melanoma Skin Cancer-comprising skin cancer images categorized into benign and malignant classes. Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques, specifically Grad-CAM, were employed to enhance the interpretability of the model’s decisions. Comparative analysis was performed with three pre-existing deep learning networks-EfficientNet, MobileNet, and Darknet. The results demonstrate SWNet’s superiority, achieving an accuracy of 99.86% and an F1 score of 99.95%, underscoring its efficacy in gradient propagation and feature capture across various levels. This research highlights the significant potential of SWNet in advancing skin cancer detection and classification, providing a robust tool for accurate and early diagnosis. The integration of feature fusion enhances accuracy and mitigates biases associated with hair and skin tones. The outcomes of this study contribute to improved patient outcomes and healthcare practices, showcasing SWNet’s exceptional capabilities in skin cancer detection and classification.
The impact of chronic intermittent hypoxia on enzymatic activity in memory-associated brain regions of male and female rats
Authors: Mabry Steve , Bradshaw Jessica L. , Gardner Jennifer J. , Wilson E. Nicole , Sunuwar Janak , Yeung Hannah , Shrestha Sharad , Cunningham J. Thomas , Cunningham Rebecca L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an intermittent hypoxia disorder associated with cognitive dysfunction, including learning and memory impairments. There is evidence that alterations in protease activity and neuronal activation are associated with cognitive dysfunction, are dependent on sex, and may be brain region-specific. However, the mechanisms mediating OSA-induced cognitive impairments are unclear. Therefore, we used a rat model of OSA, chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) to investigate protease activity (e.g., calpain and caspase-3) on spectrin, a cytoskeletal protein associated with neurotransmitter release, and neuronal activation (early growth response protein 1, EGR-1) in brain regions associated with learning and memory.

Methods

Male and female Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to CIH or room air (normoxic) for 14 days. We quantified protease activity and cleaved spectrin products, along with EGR-1 protein expression in hippocampal subregions (CA1, CA3), cortical regions [entorhinal cortex (ETC), retrosplenial cortex (RSC), cerebellar cortex (CC)], and subcortical regions [raphe nucleus (RN), locus coeruleus (LC)] associated with learning and memory. Within each group, Pearson correlations of calpain activity, caspase-3 activity, and EGR-1 expression were performed between brain regions. Sex differences within normoxic and CIH correlations were examined.

Results

CIH dysregulated calpain activity in male ETC, and female CA1 and RSC. CIH dysregulated caspase-3 activity in male RN, and female CA1 and RSC. CIH decreased calpain and caspase-3 cleavage products in male ETC. CIH decreased calpain-cleaved spectrin in male RSC but increased these products in female RSC. EGR-1 expression was decreased in male and female RN. Correlational analysis revealed CIH increased excitatory connections in males and increased inhibitory connections in females. EGR-1 expression in males shifted from negative to positive correlations.

Conclusions

Overall, these data indicate CIH dysregulates protease activity and impairs neuronal function in a brain region- and sex-dependent manner. This indicates that males and females exhibit sex-specific vulnerabilities to mild OSA. These findings concur with our previous behavioral studies that demonstrated memory impairment in CIH-exposed rats.
Host selection is not a universal driver of phyllosphere community assembly among ecologically similar native New Zealand plant species
Authors: Noble Anya S. , Abbaszadeh Jaber , Lee Charles K.
Published: January 2025

Background

A growing body of evidence demonstrates that host-associated microbial communities of plant leaf surfaces (i.e. the phyllosphere) can influence host functional traits. However, it remains unclear whether host selection is a universal driver of phyllosphere community assembly. We targeted mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) and three neighbouring non-mānuka plant species along an 1800-m transect in a New Zealand native bush to conduct a hypothesis-driven investigation of the relative influence of host species identity and stochastic dispersal on the composition of natural phyllosphere bacterial communities.

Results

We detected significant correlations between host species identity and mānuka phyllosphere communities that are consistent with a dominant role of host selection in the assembly of the mānuka phyllosphere microbiome. In contrast, the phyllosphere community compositions of neighbouring, ecologically similar native plants were highly variable, suggesting that stochastic processes, such as dispersal, had a stronger influence on the phyllosphere microbiomes of those non-mānuka plants compared to the phyllosphere microbiome of mānuka. Furthermore, the distribution of phyllosphere taxa among plant species was congruent with a scenario in which microorganisms had dispersed from mānuka to non-mānuka phyllosphere microbiomes.

Conclusions

We conclude that host selection of phyllosphere communities is not and should not be presumed to be a universal trait across plant species. The specificity of the mānuka phyllosphere microbiome suggests the presence of functionally significant bacteria that are under direct, possibly chemically mediated, selection by the host. Furthermore, we propose that phyllosphere microbiomes under strong host selection, such as that of mānuka, may act as a source of microorganisms for the phyllosphere microbiomes of neighbouring plants.
In vitro characterization the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of hemp (Cannabis sativa spp.) varieties cultivated in Northern Alabama
Authors: Dudley Aaron , Kassama Lamin S. , Jackson-Davis Armitra , Cebert Ernst , Kuang Xianyan
Published: January 2025

Plants, especially those recognized for their medicinal properties, are an excellent source of bioactive components and are attracting considerable interest in the food industry due to their natural bioactivity. In this context, hemp species (Cannabis sativa spp.) were investigated for such applications because of their well-documented antibacterial and antioxidant activities. However, the bioactive efficacy of varieties being introduced in Northern Alabama and their implications for food safety have not been studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidative potential of four hemp varieties grown at the Alabama A&M University, Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station in Northern Alabama using three different extraction solvents (deionized water, acetone, and ethanol). Antioxidant potential was evaluated by DPPH free radical scavenging activity (2, 2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl), Total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Antibacterial activity against cocktails of enteric pathogens, including Listeria monocytogenese, E. coli O157:H7, and Salmonella enterica was evaluated for optical density using a BioScreen-C microtiter. Also, the disc diffusion extraction yield was evaluated to determine the best extraction solvent. Data were expressed as mean ± standard error (n = 3) and ANOVA (P ≤ 0.05). The ethanolic extracts exhibited the the highest extraction yield at 25.29 ± 0.70% (RE), while the antioxidant result demonstrated that the ethanolic extracts had the highest DPPH free radical scavenging activity at 64.03 ± 0.26% (RE). The results of the antibacterial studies showed that ethanolic hemp extracts exhibited significantly higher growth inhibition against all foodborne pathogens > 70% (p ≤ 0.05). The results show that the ethanolic extracts has significant extraction yield and bioactivity, highlighting ethanolic extract utilization in future antimicrobial nanofiber application.
Impact of Covid-19 infection on thyroid functions
Authors: Hamed Hanaa S. , El khodary Reda , Lotfy Samah Mohamed , Sakr Maha Mahmoud Hamed , Saied Mohammad Walaa
Published: January 2025

Background

The 2019 coronavirus illness (COVID-19) has caused significant disruption on a worldwide scale. With several recent studies observing the rise of thyroid problems in afflicted individuals, the influence of COVID-19 on thyroid function is receiving more attention.

This study aims to determine the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in COVID patients.

Methods

We evaluated thyroid function tests (TFTs) in 129 patients who were hospitalized to Zagazig University Hospitals with confirmed COVID-19 infection. Patients with pre-existing thyroid conditions or those on medications influencing (TFTs) were excluded. Serum levels of free thyroxine (FT4), thyrotropin (TSH), and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were measured on the first day of admission, followed by follow-up TFTs within the first six months, one year, and two years after discharge.

Results

We included 129 patients aged between 22 and 70 years, with 38 (29.5%) identified as male and 91 (70.5%) as female. Upon admission, (TFTs) were normal in 14.9% of patients. The findings also revealed 13.2% with subclinical hypothyroidism, 32.6% with subclinical hyperthyroidism, 6.2% with hypothyroidism, and 37.2% with hyperthyroidism. Two years after discharge, only 43.4% had normal TFTs, while 10.1% were being treated for hypothyroidism and 46.5% for hyperthyroidism.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the complex interplay between COVID-19, thyroid function, and vaccination status. The results indicate that thyroid dysfunction specifically hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or subclinical hypothyroidism might be a frequent outcome for patients recovering from COVID-19, particularly in those who experienced more severe cases.
Feasibility of Multi-Institutional Data Collection for Medication Prior Authorization in Pediatric Oncology
Authors: Dickens David S. , Juhl Kathryn , Bennett Peggy , Sullivan Megan , Mancuso Ann , Parsons Susan K. , Pollock Brad H.
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Medication prior authorization (mPA) occurs commonly in US cancer care. While medical oncologists report potential harm resulting from this requirement, the impact of mPA in pediatric oncology is unknown. This study's primary aim was to test the feasibility of prospectively collecting multi-institutional data on mPA in pediatric oncology, while secondarily assessing for resultant delays in care.

METHODS

Pediatric patients with cancer were enrolled between September 2021 and December 2022 at three Children's Oncology Group institutions participating in the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program. Data collected for each mPA event included the name of the medication, indication, desired initiation date, and actual date administered.

RESULTS

Among 68 patients enrolled at three institutions, 38 (56%) were subject to at least one mPA. A total of 69 mPAs occurred in these 38 patients, with 36 (52%) for supportive care and 33 (48%) for treatment medications. Ultimately, 61 of 69 (88%) mPAs were approved as prescribed (33 of 33 treatment mPAs) with a range of 5-240 minutes of provider/staff time required to resolve. MPAs delayed care in 15 of 69 (22%) cases with a range of 1-21 days. Most providers reported minimal or no additional burden to characterizing mPA data.

CONCLUSION

Despite the complexity and variability of institutional mPA processes, it is feasible to prospectively collect multi-institutional mPA data. No cancer treatment mPA request led to alterations in prescriptions. Delays in care because of mPA affect roughly one quarter of pediatric patients with cancer, the consequences of which remain unknown.
Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 Alterations and Prognostic Implications in All Subtypes of Breast Cancers
Authors: Heeke Arielle L. , Elliott Andrew , O'Keefe Kaitlyn , Livasy Chad , Symanowski James T. , Steiner Meghan R. , Kang Irene M. , Hoon Dave S.B. , Walker Philip , Sledge George W. , Radovich Milan , Pohlmann Paula R. , Swain Sandra M. , Tan Antoinette R.
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Alterations in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2;
ERBB2
gene) may be clinically relevant when considering HER2-targeted therapies. We have characterized the breadth of
ERBB2
alterations (mutation, fusion, and copy number amplification) in breast cancer and explored the relationship between
ERBB2
alterations and prognosis.

METHODS

DNA next-generation sequencing (592-gene panel and whole-exome sequencing) and RNA whole-transcriptome sequencing data from 12,153 breast samples were retrospectively reviewed for
ERBB2
alterations. Clinicopathologic features were described, including breast cancer subtype, age, and biopsy site. HER2 status was determined according to ASCO guideline recommendations, including HER2-low. Overall survival (OS) data were obtained from insurance claims, and Kaplan-Meier estimates were calculated for defined patient cohorts. Statistical significance was determined using chi-square and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

RESULTS

Pathogenic
ERBB2
mutations (
ERBB2-
mut) were identified in 3.2% (N = 388) of tumors overall, most common in liver metastases (113/1,972, 5.7%).
ERBB2-
mut was more common among breast lobular than ductal (10%
v
2.1%;
P
< .001) and HER2-positive (HER2+)/low tumors (≥3.8%
v
1.5% TNBC;
P
< .05). The most common variant was
ERBB2
-L755S (1.0% prevalence), enriched in metastatic tumors (1.2%
v
0.6% in primary;
P
< .001).
ERBB2
fusions were rare (0.3% prevalence). Coalterations associated with
ERBB2
-mutated tumors compared with
ERBB2
wildtype (WT) included
CDH1
(40.0%
v
10.2%;
P
< .001) and
ERBB3
(10.6%
v
0.8%;
P
< .001). Of the 10,115 tumor samples with outcome data,
ERBB2-
mut was associated with worse OS compared with WT.

CONCLUSION

ERBB2-
mut and fusions were observed in all breast cancer subtypes—more commonly in HER2+/low, metastatic, and lobular histology tumors—and associated with poorer prognosis.
Integration of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Actions Through the Central Amygdala
Authors: Duran Miguel , Willis Jennifer R , Dalvi Nilay , Fokakis Zoe , Virkus Sonja A , Hardaway J Andrew
Published: January 2025

Understanding the detailed mechanism of action of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists on distinct topographic and genetically defined brain circuits is critical for improving the efficacy and mitigating adverse side effects of these compounds. In this mini-review, we propose that the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is a critical mediator of GLP-1R agonist-driven hypophagia. Here, we review the extant literature demonstrating CeA activation via GLP-1R agonists across multiple species and through multiple routes of administration. The precise role of GLP-1Rs within the CeA is unclear but the site-specific GLP-1Rs may mediate distinct behavioral and physiological hallmarks of GLP-1R agonists on food intake. Thus, we propose important novel directions and methods to test the role of the CeA in mediating GLP-1R actions.
Dynamic crosstalk between cytoskeletal filaments regulates dorsoventral cytoplasmic mechanics
Authors: Ray Dipanjan , Sinha Deepak Kumar
Published: January 2025

The cytoplasm exhibits viscoelastic properties, displaying both solid and liquid-like behaviour, and can actively regulate its mechanical attributes. The cytoskeleton is a major regulator among the numerous factors influencing cytoplasmic mechanics. We explore the interdependence of various cytoskeletal filaments and the impact of their density on cytoplasmic viscoelasticity. The heterogeneous distribution of these filaments gives rise to polarised mechanical properties of the cytoplasm along the dorsoventral axis. Actin filament disassembly softens the ventral cytoplasm while stiffening the mid cytoplasm, due to increased vimentin filament assembly. Disruption of microtubules or depletion of vimentin softens both the ventral and mid cytoplasm. Cytochalasin D (Cyto D) treatment results in a localised increase of vimentin assembly in the mid cytoplasm, which is dependent on the cytolinker plectin. Nocodazole treatment has a negligible effect on F-actin distribution but significantly alters the spatial arrangement of vimentin. We demonstrate that Cyto D treatment upregulates vimentin expression via reactive oxygen species-mediated activation of NF-κΒ. This article investigates how different cytoskeletal filaments influence the rheological characteristics of various cytoplasmic regions.
HACIA UNA COMUNICACIÓN INTEGRADA EN EL CONTEXTO DE LA CIENCIA ABIERTA
Authors: Montiel- Espinosa Gisela
Published: January 2025

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EDUCACIÓN ESTADÍSTICA Y PROBABILÍSTICA PARA FUTUROS DOCENTES ESPAÑOLES DE INFANTIL Y PRIMARIA: CARACTERÍSTICAS, ENFOQUE Y METODOLOGÍA
Authors: Alsina Ángel , Vásquez Claudia , García Alonso Israel , Berciano Ainhoa
Published: January 2025

Se analiza cómo se desarrolla la formación en educación estadística y probabilística para futuros docentes de educación infantil y primaria en las universidades públicas españolas. Para ello, se ha administrado a 43 formadores el Cuestionario Educación Estadística y Probabilística para Futuros Docentes, previamente validado. Los resultados muestran: 1) en los grados de infantil y primaria, respectivamente, se dedican 1 y 2 créditos de 240 (0.4% y 0.8%); 2) la perspectiva es sobre todo didáctica, atendiendo tanto al conocimiento matemático como al didáctico; 3) aunque coexisten diversas metodologías, destaca, en ambos grados, la aplicación de conocimientos didácticos (diseño de tareas, etc.). Se concluye que estos hallazgos permiten tener un panorama profundo para planificar propuestas de mejora que garanticen una formación sólida durante la formación inicial del profesorado en España.
Keris Taming Sari dan Legitimasi Kesaktian Hang Tuah
Authors: Aisyah Fitria Ajeng , Nugraha Priyatama Ardian
Published: January 2025

Masyarakat Jawa menganggap keris sebagai benda yang keramat. Akan tetapi, di sisi lain, masyarakat Melayu juga menempatkan keris sebagai jati diri orang Melayu. Dalam hal ini, eksistensi keris juga tertuang dalam Hikayat Hang Tuah yang menempatkan keris Taming Sari dari Majapahit sebagai senjata yang meningkatkan kesaktian dari Hang Tuah hingga dirinya dianugerahkan gelar Laksamana. Dari hal tersebut, diperoleh dua pertanyaan penelitian, yaitu 1) bagaimana keris Taming Sari dapat memberikan legitimasi kesaktian Hang Tuah? 2) mengapa penulis Hikayat Hang Tuah menonjolkan legitimasi melalui keris Taming Sari? Untuk menjawab dua pertanyaan penelitian tersebut, digunakan metode deskriptif analisis, yaitu dengan mendeskripsikan dan menganalisis fakta-fakta yang ditemukan dalam karya sastra Hikayat Hang Tuah, yang selanjutnya dianalisis menggunakan teori legitimasi Weber. Hasil yang diperoleh, yaitu Hang Tuah pada mulanya telah memiliki legitimasi karismatik diperkuat dengan keberhasilannya dalam mengalahkan prajurit Taming Sari dan memiliki keris pusakanya menjadikan legitimasi bagi Hang Tuah bertambah, yaitu legitimasi tradisional, karismatik, dan legal-rasional (setelah bergelar Laksamana). Penonjolan legitimasi melalui keris tersebut secara tersirat memperlihatkan  bahwa Hang Tuah telah diakui oleh Melayu dan Majapahit.
Bentuk Kepasrahan dan Resistansi Tokoh Karyamin dalam Cerpen “Senyum Karyamin” Karya Ahmad Tohari
Authors: Lestari Selvi Triana , Rabbani Ilham
Published: January 2025

Cerpen “Senyum Karyamin” karya Ahmad Tohari menceritakan kepasrahan Karyamin akibat terdampak kebijakan pemerintah untuk membayar iuran dana bagi orang-orang kelaparan di Afrika. Senyum kepasrahannya tidak harus selalu dilihat sebagai sikap pasif, melainkan berpotensi memunculkan resistansi. Penelitian ini berusaha menjawab: pertama, bagaimanakah bentuk kepasrahan yang ditunjukkan tokoh Karyamin dan masyarakat di dalam cerpen?; dan kedua, bagaimanakah senyum kepasrahan yang diperlihatkan Karyamin dapat membentuk resistansi? Teori psikoanalisis Zizek dengan melibatkan Bartleby politics dipilih sebagai pisau analisis untuk menjawab pertanyaan-pertanyaan tersebut. Metode yang digunakan ialah kualitatif deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa bentuk kepasrahan Karyamin dan rekan-rekannya ditandai dengan adanya sikap nrima yang bertransformasi menjadi kesadaran-sinis, dan memuncak pada momentum kekosongan dan tindakan-radikal. Klimaks kepasrahannya adalah gelak tawa yang dapat dilihat sebagai resistansi berupa pengacauan tatanan lewat tindakan-radikal.
Investigation of Antimycobacterial Properties of Malaysian Stingless Bee (Kelulut) Honey Using The Mycobacterium smegmatis Model
Authors:   Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Pagoh Higher Education Hub, KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Panchor 84600, Johor, Malaysia, Talip Balkis A. , Kahar Ernna Erynna Mohamad ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Pagoh Higher Education Hub, KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Panchor 84600, Johor, Malaysia, Johar Izzat ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Pagoh Higher Education Hub, KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Panchor 84600, Johor, Malaysia, Fauzi Noor Akhmazillah Mohd ,   Faculty of Engineering Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Pagoh Higher Education Hub, KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Panchor 84600, Johor, Malaysia, Razali Muhammad Faiz ,   Faculty of Engineering Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Pagoh Higher Education Hub, KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Panchor 84600, Johor, Malaysia, Muthalib Khairunnisa Abdhul ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Pagoh Higher Education Hub, KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Panchor 84600, Johor, Malaysia, Kodeem Nadia Nabila Mohd ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Pagoh Higher Education Hub, KM 1, Jalan Panchor, Panchor 84600, Johor, Malaysia
Published: January 2025

Malaysian Kelulut honey has been found contain antibacterial activity towards many Gram – positive and Gram – negative bacteria. This potential is related to its physical and chemical component that presents in Kelulut honey. This study focuses on Kelulut honey capability as a new natural product with therapeutic effect on Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical samples. Antimycobacterial activity was assessed by broth microdilution and time-kill kinetics assay while the effect of Malaysian Kelulut honey against Mycobacterium smegmatis was investigated using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranges from 4 % to 8 % (w/v) while the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was recorded at 8 % (w/v) for all honey samples. At 4 % (w/v) Heterotrigona itama (JP) honey demonstrated bactericidal activity within 72 h. Treatment with Kelulut honey resulted in cell deformation and structural irregularity with surface roughening to the M. smegmatis. From this study, it shows that Malaysian Kelulut honey exhibits antimycobacterial activity where it is observed to have bactericidal effect against M. smegmatis at 8 % (w/v). Thus, this study elucidated potential of Malaysian Kelulut honey as a natural therapeutic agent against Mycobacterium species.
Profile of morphological characters among male and female buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) populations in Kaliakah Village, Bali Province, Indonesia
Authors: Almaududy Khairul U. , Nurmawati Ira , Basith Abdul , Haikal Moch. , Aini Anis N.
Published: January 2025

Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in Kaliakah Village are exploited in the makepung lampit tradition, in addition to food and agricultural tools. However, the population of buffaloes in Kaliakah Village is very small hence information on their morphology is needed to inform conservation efforts. This study aimed to describe qualitative and quantitative characters in the morphology of male and female buffaloes in Kaliakah Village. This survey study was analyzed on 24 male buffaloes and 30 female buffaloes. Qualitative characters observed consist of body shape, body color, eye color, and horn shape, while quantitative characters measured consist of chest girth (CG), leg length (LL), body length (BL), head length (HL), neck length (NL), tail length (TL), and estimated body weight (BW). The study results revealed variations in body shape (stocky and fat), body color (black and albino), and eye color (black and reddish black) in both male and female buffaloes. Male buffaloes have a CG of 167 ± 19.18 cm, LL of 57.63 ± 5.23 cm, BL of 128.13 ± 7.60 cm, HL of 31.38 ± 3.50 cm, NL of 49.25 ± 5.99 cm, TL of 61.88 ± 6.53 cm, and BW of 740.79 ± 198.59 kg. Female buffaloes had a CG of 160.40 ± 16.53 cm, LL of 57.17 ± 4.31 cm, BL of 127.39 ± 7.55 cm, HL of 30.72 ± 3.67 cm, NL of 72 ± 5.46 cm, TL of 60.56 ± 6.48 cm, and BW of 700.94 ± 168.87 kg. Based on ANOVA (one-way) analysis, there was no significant differences between the quantitative characters of male and female buffaloes. Based on an analysis of correlation, there are differences in quantitative characters that are strongly correlated among male and female buffaloes.
Effect of graded levels of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth, haematology and serum biochemistry of African catfish Clarias Gariepinus juveniles
Authors: Omitoyin Siyanbola Adewumi , Orisasona Olugbenga , Ajani Kolawole Emmanul , Omitoyin Bamidele Oluwarotimi
Published: January 2025

The effects of the leaf meal of Moringa oleifera (MLM) as a source of protein in the diet of Clarias gariepinus using growth, haematology and serum biochemistry as indicators were investigated. Four experimental diets MLM1, MLM2, MLM3 and MLM4 were formulated, with M. oleifera leaf meal replacing fish meal at 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% levels of inclusion.  The four diets were allotted to triplicate groups of one hundred and eighty (180) C. gariepinus(12.5±0.03g mean weight) randomly distributed into 12 plastic aquaria for 84 days at 3% body weight daily. Growth variables including Mean weight gain (MWG), Specific growth rates (SGR), Feed conversion ratio (FCR) and Survival were determined using standard procedures. Samples of blood were collected from randomly selected fish samples before and after the feeding trial for haematological and serum biochemical analysis. Results show that MLM has fat, crude protein, crude fibre and ash contents of 5.34%, 26.62%, 18.97% and 12.01% respectively. Mean weight gain was significantly higher in MLM1 and MLM2 groups (16.75±0.35g and 15.49±0.22g respectively), with these groups having superior FCR values. Survival rate was 95% across treatment. PCV and blood platelets were significantly higher (P0.05) in fish fed MLM diets. Creatinine and total protein showed significantly higher values in the control group with values ranging from 0.40 (MLM3) to 0.67 (MLM1) and 3.16 (MLM3) to 4.70 (MLM1) and respectively. The results indicate that the leaf meal of Moringa oleifera can only replace up to 10% fish meal in Clarias gariepinus diets when growth and haematological parameters are considered.
The characteristics of gelatin from fish waste: A review
Authors: Asmawati Asmawati , Fahrizal Fahrizal , Arpi Normalina , Amanatillah Dara , Husna Fazilatul
Published: January 2025

Gelatin is a commonly used ingredient in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It is obtained through the hydrolysis process of collagen, the main protein found in animal connective tissues. Fish waste such as skin and bone are a promising source for gelatin, however the characteristics of gelatin can vary depending on its source. The purpose of this review is to compare the characteristics of gelatin from fish skin and bones, such as yield, gel strength, and viscosity. The research findings indicate significant differences in the characteristics of gelatin from different types of fish skin and bones. In this study, it was found that gelatin with the best characteristics was derived from the skin of mackerel fish, with a yield of 5.90%, viscosity of 7 cP, and gel strength of 328.57 g bloom. Meanwhile, gelatin from the bones of tilapia fish had a yield of 8.10%, viscosity of 5.85 cP, and gel strength of 376.21 g bloom. It was concluded that gelatin from various types of fish skin and bones had different characteristics, so the specific purpose of using the obtained gelatin had to be considered.
A preliminary study on the preservation of climbing perch Anabas testudineus Bloch, 1792 (Pisces: Anabantidae) oocytes using dry method at different temperature
Authors: Gheitsa Tjut N.G. , Maulida Siti , Muchlisin Zainal Abidin
Published: January 2025

Climbing perch Anabas testudineus is a freshwater fish that has economic value and has been cultivated in Indonesia. However, the fish farmers face problems with high-quality larvae supply because the breeding technology for this species is not well developed. Sperm and oocyte storage technology is important information in fish breeding. Therefore, this research aims to determine the best storage temperature using the dry storage method. Six levels of storage temperatures were tested in this study, namely: 29°C (room temperature as a control), 8°C, 4°C, 0°C, -4°C, and -8°C. The oocytes are stored at the treatment temperature for 120 minutes, where every 30 minutes the quality of the oocytes is analyzed based on fertilization and hatchability parameters. The results showed that storage temperature had a significant effect on fertility (P0.05) but had no significant effect on hatchability or the normality of larvae (P0.05). The highest percentage of fertility was obtained in treatment B (8°C) at 30 minutes, with a value of 50.33%; this value was significantly different with other treatments. The highest hatchability percentage value was also obtained in treatment B (8°C) at 30 minutes, with a value of 12%. This value was significantly different in treatments E (-4°C) and F (-8°C), but not significantly different with treatments A (29°C), C (4°C), and D (0°C) (P 0.05). The direct observations on the normality of the hatched larvae showed that all larvae had a normal morphology. In general, fertility and hatchability rate decrease with decreasing temperatures. Therefore, it is concluded that climbing perch fish eggs stored using the dry method can only be stored for less than 30 minutes, where the recommended temperature was 8°C.
Effects of dietary xylanase-treated rice husk on performance characteristics of West African Dwarf goats Capra hircus
Authors: Kolade Isiaka Oyeniyi , Yousuf Mahmud Baba , Salako Abiola Yemi , Ajijolakewu Kamoldeen Abiodun , Abdulkareem Tajjudeen Zakari , Sesan Lawal Wasiu
Published: January 2025

The effect of feeding value of Aspergillus tubingensis xylanase-treated rice husk supplemented in the dietary treatment to improve nutrient intake and digestibility, nitrogen retention and body weight gain in WAD goats was investigated. Twenty (20) West African Dwarf (WAD) goats of four to six (4-6) months old with a live weight of 6.5 - 6.6 kg were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments and a control with two replicates comprising two animals in each treatment group in a completely randomized design (CRD). Crude xylanase produced was used for enzymatic degradation of rice husk which enhanced fibre digestion, increases nutritional values and improves performance of WAD goats. The rice husk was initially subjected to physical pre-treatment through milling to increase the surface area. Pre-treated rice husk was treated by spraying the xylanase onto the rice husk at 100g/0.2mL. Xylanase-treated rice husk (XTRH) was used with other ingredients in formulating WAD goat diets at treatment levels of 0 (control), 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% (XTRH). The goat was fed on feeding trial for 56 days. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility and rumen fermentation parameters were evaluated. Crude protein intake and nutrient digestibility was significantly highest (p 0.05) for goats fed diet 4 with 30% inclusion level of xylanase-treated rice husk than for those fed at 10%, 20%, 40% or the control. Differences in feed nutrient intake and digestibility caused gradual improvement (p 0.05) in body weight gain from 16.07 (g/head/day) in the un-supplemented group to 42.88 (g/head/day) in goats fed at 30% (XTRH) inclusion level. Results showed that performance characteristics of goats fed diet 4 with 30% inclusion level of xylanase-treated rice husk was significantly (p0.05) higher than other treatment diets. The inclusion of xylanase-treated rice husk up to 30% in goat’s diet may have increased nutrients and dry matter digestion, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA's) and microbial protein production. The study concluded that xylanase-treated rice husk included at 30% in the diets of WAD goats improved feeding values of feed by increasing the rumen fermentation of fibrous diets and enhanced the growth performance of WAD goats.
Amino acid profiles and growth performance of spiny lobster Panulirus ornatus fed on combination of three mollusk meals
Authors: Kurnia Agus , Muskita Wellem Henrik , Hamzah Muhaimin , Abidin Laode Baytul , Ruslaini Ruslaini , Suaida Suaida , Amanda Rahel
Published: January 2025

Spiny lobster is an economically important marine fish commodity that has a high price and one of the important protein source for people worldwide. The quality of the protein is strongly depending on the amino acid compositions and concentrations. This study aimed to determine of amino acid profiles and growth of spiny lobster (Panulirus ornatus) fed with the diet contained combination of three mollusk meal. Four experimental diets were prepared to contain of 40% fish meal,FM (Diet A), 15% telescopium meal, + 15% gold snail meal + 10% scallops meal (Diet B), 15% telescopium meal + 10% gold snail meal + 15% scallops meal (Diet C), 10% telescopium meal + 15% gold snail meal + 15% scallops meal (Diet D) in the test diet. A total of 36 spiny lobster juvenile (initial weight : 120± 15,38 g) were distributed into twelve plastic tanks (three lobster/ tank ) with sized of 60×50 ×50 cm. Feeding the lobster two times a day (08.00 a.m and 05.00 p.m) in dosage of 8% total biomass weight for 60 days of rearing period. The experiment was designed by using completely randomized design with four treatments and three replications. Collecting data included of weight gain, survival rate, and amino acid content in the fish body. The results showed that feeding the lobster with different feed test was significantly different in weight gain of spiny lobster. The weight gain of spiny lobster fed with combination of mollusk meal had higher than the feed contain fish meal. The highest amount level of amino acid in the lobster body was leucine , while the lowest one was tryptophan. The types and total number of some amino acid profiles in the fish body was similarly with amino acid profile in the diets which contained mollusk meal. This study concluded that the amino acid profiles in the diet contained mollusk meal were suitable for requirement to improve the growth of spiny lobster.
The effect of β-carotene supplementation above requirement on the production and reproduction performance of female sheep and goats - A mini review
Authors: Ahmed Osman , Hassen Abubeker , Lehloenya Khoboso
Published: January 2025

The high rate of metabolic activity during breeding, pregnancy, parturition and lactation may lead to oxidative stress in sheep and goats. Antioxidant supplementation is proposed as a therapy for encountering resultant stress. In animals, β-carotene functions mainly as pro-vitamin A and as a scavenger of free radicals, especially against singlet-state oxygen. This raises the question of whether supplementing β-carotene as an antioxidant above the vitamin A requirement is beneficial. While a number of studies have been conducted on the effect of β-carotene supplementation as a tool to improve the production and reproduction performance of female goats and sheep, the findings are inconsistent. Some of the main reasons for this inconsistency could be attributed to the variation in the amount of β-carotene supplemented, the amount of β-carotene in the animal diet and the difference in the animal requirement for β-carotene. The objective of this review was to determine the effects of β-carotene supplementation on the production and reproductive performance of female sheep and goats fed on a diet deficient or not deficient in β-carotene. Data were extracted from peer-reviewed articles that were searched in the Web of Science, Google Scholar and Scopus databases. Thirteen peer-reviewed published articles were found on the subject under review. We estimated the animal requirement for β-carotene, the amount of β-carotene provided to the animal in the diet and the amount of β-carotene supplementation used in each study. These estimations were made to indicate whether the diet fulfilled the animal's requirement for β-carotene or not. The review revealed that β-carotene supplementation enhances the production and reproduction performance of the sheep when fed on a carotene-deficient diet. Additionally, β-carotene supplementation may increase the levels of some hormones such as progesterone in sheep and goats when fed on a diet that fulfils their requirements of β-carotene. However, the supplementation of β-carotene above the requirements seems to not affect the production and reproduction parameters such as body weight, milk production, estrus parameters, conception rate, pregnancy rate, and litter size. In conclusion, while β-carotene supplementation is essential for female sheep and goats fed β-carotene-deficient diets to attain optimal production and reproductive performance, supplementing β-carotene above the requirements does not appear to provide any further benefits to their overall performance.
Comparing the strain of male and female carers of cancer patients in Türkiye
Authors: Ozbek Nazli , Kilic Ucar Ayse , Akyuz Aygul
Published: January 2025

This study examines the care strain of family carers (FCs) who are caring for patients with cancer, with a particular focus on the differences between the experiences of male and female FCs. The sample for the descriptive study consisted of 200 FCs. While both male and female FCs encountered caregiving-related challenges, female FCs perceived a greater care strain. Female FCs spent more time caring for their patients, encountered more difficulties in their work lives, and experienced higher levels of physical and psychological problems than male FCs. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to be aware of the needs of FCs, particularly women, and to plan their care accordingly.
High-average-power, few-cycle, 2.1 µm OPCPA laser driver for soft-X-ray high-harmonic generation
Authors: Walke Daniel , Koç Azize , Gores Florian , Zhan Minjie , Forget Nicolas , Maksimenka Raman , Wilkinson Iain
Published: January 2025

Repetition-rate upscaling of intense, femtosecond-duration pulses in the short-wave infrared is necessary to further develop and apply tabletop, ultrafast soft-X-ray sources. Here, we present a 20 fs-pulse-duration, 2.1 µm-central-wavelength, optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification laser, which outputs 52 W of amplified signal power at a repetition rate of 52.6 kHz. Despite the potential for deleterious thermal processes, the laser output exhibits excellent spatial and temporal profiles in a 45 W beam at a soft-X-ray-generation target after ∼5 m of propagation. In argon gas, this enables high-harmonic generation up to ∼190 eV photon energies, demonstrating the system’s potential for ultrashort soft-X-ray-pulse production.
Investigation on interference effects of CCD detectors by 1064 nm pulsed/continuous lasers
Authors: Wang Yunzhe , Zhang Yunfeng , Liu Yang , Shao Junfeng , Zhang Yin
Published: January 2025

When a laser irradiates a CCD detector, image quality may degrade, leading to reversible interference effects such as single-pixel saturation, crosstalk, and complete saturation. This study investigates these interference effects on CCD detectors due to laser exposure using an optical interference simulation technique based on a scattering convolution point spread model and a liquid-charge differential evolution model for simulating carrier potential well accumulation and evolution. This method enables unified and rapid simulation of laser interference effects on CCD detectors, specifically allowing for the acquisition of dazzled images and the quantification of saturated pixel counts under both pulsed and continuous laser irradiation. Comparative analysis demonstrates that the simulation aligns well with experimental results and effectively elucidates the pattern of pixel saturation, especially regarding crosstalk effect. Reliability of the interference simulation theory is validated and the accuracy of the developed model is confirmed to be excellent. This model serves as a valuable reference for further research on laser interference in optoelectronic detectors, as well as for laser protection and performance optimization in imaging systems.
Diode-pumped orange Sm:LiYF4 lasers emitting at 605 nm
Authors: Demaimay Jonathan , Loiko Pavel , Kifle Esrom , Pau Florence , Recoque Gilles , Benayad Abdelmjid , Georges Thierry , Camy Patrice , Braud Alain
Published: January 2025

We report on the first visible orange samarium laser directly pumped by a blue 465-nm GaN semiconductor laser diode. The diode-pumped continuous-wave Sm:LiYF4 laser delivers 23.9 mW at 605 nm (4G5/2 → 6H7/2 transition) with a slope efficiency of 9.4%, a laser threshold of 385 mW and a linear polarization (π). We investigate the impact of pump beam quality on laser performance and revisit the polarized spectroscopic properties of Sm3+ ions in the LiYF4 crystal. The stimulated-emission cross-section σSE amounts to 1.27 × 10−20 cm2 at 604.8 nm for π-polarized light, and the luminescence lifetime of the 4G5/2 level is 4.02 ms for 1.1 at.% Sm-doping. Our work represents a proof-of-principle for compact low-threshold diode-pumped orange and red samarium lasers.
Extrinsic chiral plasmonic sensors based on a nanohole array
Authors: Wang Siyi , Zhao Zhijun , Huang Shanshan , Peng Jialong , Gao Fuhua , Hou Yidong
Published: January 2025

Determining the stereochemical structures of biomolecules is very important for biomedicine, bioscience, and food safety due to the distinct biological functions of enantiomers. Chiral plasmonic sensors (CPSs) have demonstrated their ultra-sensitive detection ability to a few picogram levels due to the excited superchiral electromagnetic field near metasurfaces, which can greatly enhance the interaction between lights and chiral biomolecules. However, the reported CPSs usually rely on the intrinsic chiroptical effects that require at least two samples to determine the molecular structures, which decrease the detection precision and improve the detection cost. In this study, we theoretically and experimentally demonstrate one extrinsic CPS based on the nanohole array (NHA). Through covering the nanohole array with a chiral medium, the measured negative and positive g-factors increase simultaneously for L-phenylalanine but decrease for D-phenylalanine. These regular signals give clear criteria to determine the molecular structures, and the detection sensitivity can be enhanced for about 1 × 106 times when compared with traditional methods. The in-depth research reveals that this enhancement comes from the excited superchiral field near nanoholes and highly depends on both the real and imaging parts of the Pasteur constant. These findings offer one new, to the best of our knowledge, approach toward high-performance CPSs.
Comprehensive Analysis of Three Visible Beam Interference Patterns: Tailoring Beam Intensity Characteristics for Advanced Photonic Applications
Authors: KUMAR AJAY , mishra vikas , Khan Mohd , Kumar Ramesh
Published: January 2025

Three visible plane beams were set up in this investigation so that they would interfere with one another. As a result, different beam shapes were observed, depending on the features of each beam's three-dimensional electric field pattern. By varying the angle between their wave vector's projection onto the transverse plane (also known as the k_x-k_y plane) and the k_x axis, the interference pattern can be modified. These angles along azimuthal direction are set at ϕ_1=π/2,ϕ_2=7π/6, and ϕ_3 =11π/6 radians. Furthermore, we assess the angle that exists between the beams and the z-direction to investigate its impact on the beam shaping procedure. This work primarily focuses on the way that different spatial configurations can be achieved by varying the three-dimensional intensity patterns of the interfering beams. These structured visible beams’ pattern show promise for a variety of uses, such as visible-induced nonlinear optical phenomena, in which the strongest, brightest areas amplify nonlinearity based refractive index due to the third order Kerr effect. Moreover, the role of hexagonal beam shaping in the production of visible photo-refractive chips is investigated. The findings may potentially have an impact on three-dimensional structural defect sensing, as changes in interference pattern may increase the sensitivity of defect identification. This study is useful in beam shaping and its useful applications in cutting-edge optical technologies such as photonic device fabrication and defect detection.
Rapid expansion and specialization of the TAS2R bitter taste receptor family in amphibians
Authors: Higgins Kathleen W. , Itoigawa Akihiro , Toda Yasuka , Bellott Daniel Winston , Anderson Rachel , Márquez Roberto , Weng Jing-Ke
Published: January 2025

TAS2Rs are a family of G protein-coupled receptors that function as bitter taste receptors in vertebrates. Mammalian TAS2Rs have historically garnered the most attention, leading to our understanding of their roles in taste perception relevant to human physiology and behaviors. However, the evolution and functional implications of TAS2Rs in other vertebrate lineages remain less explored. Here, we identify 9,291 TAS2Rs from 661 vertebrate genomes. Large-scale phylogenomic analyses reveal that frogs and salamanders contain unusually high TAS2R gene content, in stark contrast to other vertebrate lineages. In most species, TAS2R genes are found in clusters; compared to other vertebrates, amphibians have additional clusters and more genes per cluster. We find that vertebrate TAS2Rs have few one-to-one orthologs between closely related species, although total TAS2R count is stable in most lineages. Interestingly, TAS2R count is proportional to the receptors expressed solely in extra-oral tissues. In vitro receptor activity assays uncover that many amphibian TAS2Rs function as tissue-specific chemosensors to detect ecologically important xenobiotics.