bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of pre-hospital pelvic circumferential compression devices for pelvic fractures: survey of U.S. level I trauma centers
Authors: Jarvis Stephanie , Salottolo Kristin , Meinig Richard , Corrigan Chad , Patel Nimesh , Carrick Matthew , Lieser Mark , Reynolds Cassandra , Bar-Or David
Published: April 2020

Introduction

There is a lack of data on the use and effectiveness of pre-hospital pelvic circumferential compression devices (PCCD) as a temporary intervention for pelvic fracture management; they are thought to decrease pelvic volume and hemorrhage but are not without risks. The purpose of this study is to examine pre-hospital PCCD practices at US Level I trauma centers.

Methods

This was a prospective cross-sectional survey of trauma medical directors at US Level I trauma centers. The aim of this study was to describe patterns of pre-hospital PCCD utilization for pelvic fractures. Responses were compared by region, length in time the center was designated Level I, trauma patient volume, pelvic management guideline followed and blood product guidelines. Data were compared using Fisher’s exact and chi-squared tests.

Results

Of the 158 Level I trauma centers invited, 25% responded. All Level I trauma centers use in-hospital PCCDs, whereas 71% of participant’s paramedic agencies trained on pre-hospital PCCD application. Of those, 44% trained to apply pre-hospital PCCDs to all suspected pelvic fractures. A higher proportion of high-volume centers (77%) than low-volume centers (25%) trained on pre-hospital PCCD placement, p = 0.06. PCCD practices were not dependent on the trauma center’s region, trauma volume, length in time as a Level I trauma center, or pelvic fracture guideline followed.

Conclusions

There is widespread application of in-hospital and pre-hospital PCCD at US Level I trauma centers, however pre-hospital PCCDs are not applied to all suspected pelvic fractures. Future studies should focus on efficacy, safety, and contraindications for pre-hospital PCCDs.
Transgenic mice expressing tunable levels of DUX4 develop characteristic facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy-like pathophysiology ranging in severity
Authors: Jones Takako I. , Chew Guo-Liang , Barraza-Flores Pamela , Schreier Spencer , Ramirez Monique , Wuebbles Ryan D. , Burkin Dean J. , Bradley Robert K. , Jones Peter L.
Published: April 2020

Background

All types of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) are caused by the aberrant activation of the somatically silent DUX4 gene, the expression of which initiates a cascade of cellular events ultimately leading to FSHD pathophysiology. Typically, progressive skeletal muscle weakness becomes noticeable in the second or third decade of life, yet there are many individuals who are genetically FSHD but develop symptoms much later in life or remain relatively asymptomatic throughout their lives. Conversely, FSHD may clinically present prior to 5–10 years of age, ultimately manifesting as a severe early-onset form of the disease. These phenotypic differences are thought to be due to the timing and levels of DUX4 misexpression.

Methods

FSHD is a dominant gain-of-function disease that is amenable to modeling by DUX4 overexpression. We have recently created a line of conditional DUX4 transgenic mice, FLExDUX4, that develop a myopathy upon induction of human DUX4-fl expression in skeletal muscle. Here, we use the FLExDUX4 mouse crossed with the skeletal muscle-specific and tamoxifen-inducible line ACTA1-MerCreMer to generate a highly versatile bi-transgenic mouse model with chronic, low-level DUX4-fl expression and cumulative mild FSHD-like pathology that can be reproducibly induced to develop more severe pathology via tamoxifen induction of DUX4-fl in skeletal muscles.

Results

We identified conditions to generate FSHD-like models exhibiting reproducibly mild, moderate, or severe DUX4-dependent pathophysiology and characterized progression of pathology. We assayed DUX4-fl mRNA and protein levels, fitness, strength, global gene expression, and histopathology, all of which are consistent with an FSHD-like myopathic phenotype. Importantly, we identified sex-specific and muscle-specific differences that should be considered when using these models for preclinical studies.

Conclusions

The ACTA1-MCM;FLExDUX4 bi-transgenic mouse model has mild FSHD-like pathology and detectable muscle weakness. The onset and progression of more severe DUX4-dependent pathologies can be controlled via tamoxifen injection to increase the levels of mosaic DUX4-fl expression, providing consistent and readily screenable phenotypes for assessing therapies targeting DUX4-fl mRNA and/or protein and are useful to investigate certain conserved downstream FSHD-like pathophysiology. Overall, this model supports that DUX4 expression levels in skeletal muscle directly correlate with FSHD-like pathology by numerous metrics.
Vision 2030 and reducing the stigma of vocational and technical training among Saudi Arabian students
Authors: Aldossari Abdulaziz Salem
Published: April 2020

Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) plays a critical role in developing essential labor market skills. In Saudi Arabia, participation in TVET has traditionally been stigmatized in favor of white-collar jobs. However, the importance of skilled labor has increased in Saudi Arabia’s private sector as the country’s Vision 2030 focuses on moving the economy from oil to investment. This quantitative study investigates the role of recent socio-economic transformations in changing attitudes toward TVET. Statistical analysis of a questionnaire distributed to 1007 TVET students identified a significant relationship between perceptions of TVET and gender, family income, and parental educational level.
Impact of China’s high speed train window glass on GNSS signals and positioning performance
Authors: Liu Zhizhao , Gong Yangzhao , Zhou Letao
Published: April 2020

High speed train (HST) is an excellent platform to perform ultra-high spatial and temporal resolution observations of atmosphere using global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). However, we find that signal attenuation caused by HST window glass is a major barrier for HST-based GNSS applications inside HST chambers. A field experiment is conducted to analyze the effect of HST glass on GNSS signal propagation. In the experiment, GNSS observations are collected and analyzed from a receiver covered with an HST window glass and one with an open-sky view. The size of the HST window glass is 670 mm × 720 mm, with a thickness of 34 mm. The window glass is a double-glazing glass in which each layer has an actual thickness of 6 mm, and the two layers are separated by an air gap of 22 mm. The experiment results indicate that HST window glass can cause significant degradation to GNSS signals and even loss of tracking of the signal. Based on statistical results, HST window glass causes 39%, 56%, 49%, and 59% loss in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BDS signals, respectively. Additionally, up to 20 dB-Hz of carrier-to-noise ratio (C/N0) degradation is also observed in the remaining observations. The significant signal attenuation and loss further lead to the decrease in the number of tracked satellites and occurrence of more cycle slips. The results of the study indicate that 44–230 cycle slips are detected for the HST glass-covered receiver whereas the receiver without glass does not exhibit more than 16 cycle slips. Additionally, the number of GNSS satellites tracked by the HST glass-covered receiver is reduced by 65% owing to the loss of signal. Furthermore, GNSS positioning performances from two receivers are also tested. With respect to GPS + GLONASS static precise point positioning (PPP), HST glass causes a degradation of 1.516 m and 1.159 m in the single-frequency and dual-frequency three-dimensional positioning accuracy, respectively. With respect to the GPS + GLONASS kinematic PPP, the accuracy degradations for single-frequency and dual-frequency kinematic PPP are 2.670 m and 4.821 m, respectively.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Trials of Neuraxial, Intravenous, and Inhalational Anesthesia for External Cephalic Version
Authors: Hao Qingzhong , Hu Yirui , Zhang Li , Ross John , Robishaw Sarah , Noble Christine , Wu Xianren , Zhang Xiaopeng
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND:

External cephalic version (ECV) is a frequently performed obstetric procedure for fetal breech presentation to avoid cesarean delivery. Neuraxial, intravenous, and inhalational anesthetic techniques have been studied to reduce maternal discomfort caused by the forceful manipulation. This study compares the effects of these anesthetic techniques on ECV and incidence of cesarean delivery.

METHODS:

We conducted a comprehensive literature search for published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or well-conducted quasi-randomized trials of ECV performed either without anesthesia or under neuraxial, intravenous, or inhalational anesthesia. Pairwise random-effects meta-analyses and network meta-analyses were performed to compare and rank the perinatal outcomes of the 3 anesthetic interventions and no anesthesia control, including the rate of successful version, cesarean delivery, maternal hypotension, nonreassuring fetal response, and adequacy of maternal pain control/satisfaction.

RESULTS:

Eighteen RCTs and 1 quasi-randomized trial involving a total of 2296 term parturients with a noncephalic presenting singleton fetus were included. ECV under neuraxial anesthesia had significantly higher odds of successful fetal version compared to control (odds ratio [OR] = 2.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.88–3.57), compared to intravenous anesthesia (OR = 2.08; 95% CI, 1.36–3.16), and compared to inhalational anesthesia (OR = 2.30; 95% CI, 1.33–4.00). No association was found between anesthesia interventions and rate of cesarean delivery. Neuraxial anesthesia was associated with higher odds of maternal hypotension (OR = 9.33; 95% CI, 3.14–27.68). Intravenous anesthesia was associated with significantly lower odds of nonreassuring fetal response compared to control (OR = 0.36; 95% CI, 0.16–0.82). Patients received neuraxial anesthesia reported significantly lower visual analog scale (VAS) of procedure-related pain (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −1.61; 95% CI, −1.92 to −1.31). The VAS scores of pain were also significantly lower with intravenous (SMD = −1.61; 95% CI, −1.92 to −1.31) and inhalational (SMD = −1.19; 95% CI, −1.58 to −0.8) anesthesia. The VAS of patient satisfaction was significantly higher with intravenous anesthesia (SMD = 1.53; 95% CI, 0.64–2.43).

CONCLUSIONS:

Compared to control, ECV with neuraxial anesthesia had a significantly higher successful rate; however, the odds of maternal hypotension increased significantly. All anesthesia interventions provided significant reduction of procedure-related pain. Intravenous anesthesia had significantly higher score in patient satisfaction and lower odds of nonreassuring fetal response. No evidence indicated that anesthesia interventions were associated with significant decrease in the incidence of cesarean delivery compared to control.
Writing a statement
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: April 2020

This article considers the importance of statement writing. It will outline some of the reasons why the healthcare assistant and assistant practitioner (HCA and AP), the trainee/student/nursing associate (NA) may be required to write a statement. The article describes the various types of statement.
The consequences of COVID-19 for gastroenterology nursing
Authors: Burch Jennie
Published: April 2020

Jennie Burch, Head of Gastrointestinal Nurse Education, St Mark's Hospital, London ( jburch1@nhs.net ), discusses the ramifications of coronavirus and the guidelines available to professionals working in gastroenterology
Polices and guidance on euthanasia and assisted suicide
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: April 2020

In light of recent media coverage, Emeritus Professor Alan Glasper, from the University of Southampton, discusses polices and guidance that relate to euthanasia and assisted suicide
The law and death
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: April 2020

Richard Griffith, Senior Lecturer in Health Law at Swansea University, considers the legal definition of death and the law relating to the disposal of a body after death
Negative pressure wound therapy for patients with hard-to-heal wounds: a systematic review
Authors: Janssen Alexandra HJ , Wegdam Johannes A , de Vries Reilingh Tammo S , Eskes Anne M , Vermeulen Hester
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Despite the lack of evidence, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is commonly used in patients with hard-to-heal wounds. In our medical centre, one third of patients with abdominal wounds infected postoperatively end this therapy prematurely due to negative experiences and prefer standard wound care. This study was designed to explore the effects of NPWT on quality of life (QoL).

Method:

A search from 2000 to 2019 in eight databases was performed to identify qualitative studies of patients treated with NPWT. Studies were selected by two independent reviewers, who appraised the methodological quality, extracted and structured the data and performed content analysis.

Results:

A total of five qualitative studies with good methodological quality, incorporating 51 individual patients, were included. After content analysis, four major themes emerged: reduced freedom of movement caused by an electric device; decreased self-esteem; increased social and professional dependency; and gaining self-control.

Conclusion:

NPWT has major effects on the physical, psychological and social domains of QoL. Knowledge of these effects may lead to improved treatment decisions for patients with hard-to-heal wounds regarding use of NPWT or standard wound care.
Risk and clinical impact of bacterial resistance/susceptibility to silver-based wound dressings: a systematic review
Authors: Dissemond Joachim , Steinmann Jörg , Münter Karl-Christian , Brill Holger , Böttrich Johannes Georg , Braunwarth Horst , Schümmelfeder Frank , Wilken Patricia
Published: April 2020

Objective:

To perform a systematic review of the literature on bacterial resistance, tolerance and susceptibility of silver within the context of wound therapy using silver-based dressings.

Methods:

A literature search was carried out using PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library databases, the focus was whether results from microbiological experimental in vitro tests with reference strains and clinical wound isolates are reflected in clinical practice with regards to their ‘resistance’ profiles, comparable with those observed for antibiotics. The search results were allocated to six categories: resistance and resistance mechanism, in vitro tests with standard strains and wound isolates, prevalence and incidence, impact on clinical practice and impact on antibiotic therapy as well as reviews, expert opinions and consensus.

Results:

Based on all findings of the literature, it cannot be confirmed that a related clinical resistance to silver-ions in silver-based dressings has clinical impact, although endogenous and exogenous genetic resistance patterns have been described and intensively investigated. A translation of these genetic resistance-expression structures to phenotypic appearances, similar to those known for antibiotics, has not been demonstrated for silver in the literature.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that there is no definitive evidence available and further studies should be conducted.
Antibiofilm activity and cytotoxicity of silk sericin against Streptococcus mutans bacteria in biofilm: an in vitro study
Authors: Aramwit Pornanong , Napavichayanum Supamas , Pienpinijtham Prompong , Rasmi Yousef , Bang Nipaporn
Published: April 2020

Objective:

To investigate the potential of sericin extracted by different methods to inhibit biofilm formation (prevention) and disrupt already formed biofilm (treatment).

Method:

In this in vitro study, sericin was extracted by heat, acid, alkali and urea. Streptococcus mutans bacteria were cultivated in the presence of various concentrations of sericin to evaluate antibiofilm formation using cell density assay (inhibition effect before biofilm formed). Conversely, various concentrations of sericin were added to a biofilm already formed by Streptococcus mutans bacteria, and the viability of bacteria assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay (disruption effects after biofilm formed). Structures of extracted sericin were evaluated using circular dichroism and Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer.

Results:

The urea-extracted sericin at all concentrations (12.5mg/ml, 25mg/ml, 50mg/ml and 100mg/ml) showed the highest potential antibiofilm activity in terms of both inhibition and disruption effects, compared with sericin extracted by heat, acid or alkali. The heat-extracted and acid-extracted sericin were found to reduce the biofilm formation dose-dependently, while the alkali-extracted sericin did not show either inhibition or disruption effect on the bacterial biofilm. The urea-extracted sericin also killed the bacteria residing within the biofilm, possibly due to its modified structure which may destabilise the bacterial cell wall, leading to membrane disintegration and, finally, cell death.

Conclusion:

Our results demostrated the antibiofilm activity of sericin. This could form the basis of further research on the mechanism and application of sericin as a novel antibiofilm agent.
Promoting safe prescribing practice and interprofessional working: a workshop follow-up evaluation
Authors: Hemingway Steve , Stephenson John , Arnold Lydia
Published: April 2020

Safe prescribing requires successful interprofessional working. One way to facilitate this is to develop interprofessional education across disciplines. This paper presents findings from a follow-up evaluation of an interprofessional workshop for prescribing safety to assess the perceptions and attitudes toward working interprofessionally in non-medical prescribers and MPharm students. The objectives were to further validate an internal workshop questionnaire and the use of the of a scale to assess the readiness for interprofessional learning. An interprofessional workshop, centered around the issue of prescriptions and determinants of competence and safety, was attended by 126 non-medical prescribers and MPharm students. The workshop was evaluated using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning questionnaire and an internally-produced evaluation, The workshop was evaluated using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning questionnaire and an internally-produced evaluation. As part of this process, internal consistency of the internally-produced evaluation was verified.. The workshop was rated highly by all participants with overall positivity toward working interprofessionally. There was no evidence that non-medical prescribers and students rated the workshop significantly differently, but MPharm students scored slightly higher than non-medical prescribers on one domain of the internally-produced instrument. All domains of this instrument demonstrated good internal consistency. The workshop overall was received well and appears to meet the standards set out by The Centre for the Advancement of Interprofessional Education. While reliability measures of the internally produced instrument are promising, further work is needed to develop internal validity; and to determine whether any adaptations to the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale are needed for subsequent use with different groups of participants.
Is your building fit for practice?
Authors: Hancock Dave
Published: April 2020

For some years GPs have complained about poor practice premises. With new investment and the requirements of the NHS 21st century service model, Dave Hancock considers the key aspects of estate transformation
A new topographic survey of the walls of Pompeii: Porta Nola from 3D laser scanner to conservation problems
Authors: Luana Toniolo  , Silvia Bergami  , Michele Silani
Published: April 2020

Since 2016, within a broad collaboration agreement between the Archaeological Park of Pompeii and the University of Bologna, a new scientific research project started, with the aim to study and document the north-east sector of the walls of Pompeii, included between Porta Vesuvio and Porta Sarno. The first accomplished result was to achieve a new documentation using protocols and procedures inspired by those used by the Plan of Knowledge of the Great Pompeii Project. Within the new research, while complying with the original guidelines, we tried to update some procedures regarding the analysis of the deterioration and to propose new research lines. The works are ongoing thus we present here the first remarks and an illustrative case focused on the context of Porta Nola.
Water regimentation in the Pontine Plain between Astura and Fogliano in the dynamics of ancient population
Authors: Laura Ebanista
Published: April 2020

The stretch of coast between Astura and Fogliano is characterized by a particular geomorphological situation linked to several difficulties in the drainage of the waters that have always generated marshes. In this contribution will be analysed the settlement and development dynamics of this particular territory from an archaeological point of view basing on the bibliographic and archive data, the survey and the photointerpretation. Considering the significant modifications that the territory has undergone because of the numerous reclamations, a reconstructions of the ancient ideography is also here proposed.
The Burnum Project: a combination of archaeological research and communication in Cultural Heritage
Authors: Alessandro Campedelli
Published: April 2020

The archaeological site of Burnum is the subject of scientific research conducted since 2005 by the members of the Department of History, Culture and Civilization of Bologna University in collaboration with the Department of Archaeology of the University of Zadar. The project makes use of the fundamental support of the Krka National Park, committed to protecting the environmental heritage of the river valley and from 2003 also to enhancing the rich historical and archaeological context of the area. In this regard, while the research activities at Burnum continue to return new data and information on the history of the site during the Roman period, the project is also focusing on issues concerning virtual reconstruction and multimedia technologies applied to cultural heritage, with the aim of capturing attention, simplifying understanding and removing usage patterns.
A case of rescue archaeology in Ascoli Piceno: the project of San Pietro in Castello
Authors: Martina Bombardelli  , Giuseppe Guarino  , Michele Massoni  , Federico Zoni
Published: April 2020

The project, developed in collaboration between the Department of History and Culture- DISCI of the University of Bologna, the Soprintendenza Archeologia, Belle Arti e Paesaggio delle Marche and the Comune di Ascoli Piceno, took place in 2019 during the restoration of the area of San Pietro in Castello. The non-invasive survey was carried out using methodologies related to rescue archaeology and urban archaeology for the purpose of reconstructing the historical and archaeological development of this urban area. The considerations described in this paper are preliminary since the study is still in progress.
Characteristics of Bacillus thuringiensis isolates indigenous soil of South Sumatra (Indonesia) and their pathogenicity against oil palm pests Oryctes rhinoceros (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)
Authors: Pujiastuti Yulia , Arsi Arsi , Sandi Sofia
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Pujiastuti Y, Arsi, Sandi S. 2020. Characteristics of Bacillus thuringiensis isolates indigenous soil of South Sumatra (Indonesia)  and their pathogenicity against oil palm pests Oryctes rhinoceros (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Biodiversitas 21: 1287-1294. Bacillus thuringiensis is a gram-positive, entomopathogenic bacterium that could be isolated from soil and be used to control various plant pests. Oryctes rhinoceros is an important pest in oil palm. Application of B. thuringiensis-based bioinsecticides is an alternative in controlling these pests. The purposes of this study were to isolate and identify B. thuringiensis bacteria from the soil of South Sumatra, production of B. thuringiensis-based bioinsecticides and to test their toxicity to O. rhinoceros larvae. The study was conducted in several cities/districts in the province of South Sumatra. Soil samples were taken from various habitats and B. thuringiensis isolates were grown on NGKG agar media. Among 76 soil samples (6 districts and 2 cities) B. thuringiensis colonies were obtained leading to 24 isolates of B. thuringiensis. Toxicity screening tests for armyworm Spodoptera litura were 55.79% (53 isolates) and their mortality to 25.26% O. rhinoceros larvae (24 isolates). From these isolates whose effectively killed O. rhinoceros larvae, 10 isolates were taken and propagated with Nutrient Broth (NB) and biourine enriched with 5% molasses. Number of spores produced was counted during 24, 48 and 72 hours. Furthermore, a bioassay test was carried out on O. rhinoceros larvae for 7 days. Isolate of KJ3P1 caused the highest mortality of O. rhinoceros larvae after 7 days of observation. SDS Page resulted in KJ3P1 and KJ3R5 isolates showing several bands whose content of various types of protein molecular weight. Isolation of B. thuringiensis in South Sumatra produced 2 isolates potentially to be active ingredients in production of bioinsecticides which were effective in killing O. rhinoceros larvae.
Inhibitory activity of crude bacteriocin produced by lactic acid bacteria isolated from dadih against Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Pato Usman , YUSMARINI YUSUF  , SHANTI FITRIANI  , NIA NAIDYA JONNADI  , MIMI SRI WAHYUNI  , JESKA ARYANINGSIH FERUNI  , IRWANDI JASWIR
Published: April 2020

The use of natural preservatives called bacteriocin derived from lactic acid bacteria (LAB) is one way of preventing food from being contaminated by pathogenic microorganisms such as L. monocytogenes (LM). The aims of this study were to evaluate the ability of LAB isolated from dadih to inhibit the growth of LM and to obtain the antimicrobial components that play a role in inhibiting the growth of LM. The antimicrobial activity of the supernatant obtained from 12 strains of dadih LAB was determined using the paper disk diffusion method. The results showed that the supernatant from the 12 LAB strains was able to inhibit the growth of LM with various inhibition zones. However, out of the 12 LABs, only 9 strains were found to have an inhibition zone of more than 3.5 mm.  The antimicrobial compounds of 9 strains were tested and it was found that the antimicrobial compounds of strains R-8, R-14 and R-49 were derived from lactic acid. In addition, 6 strains namely R-43, R-32, R-19, R-55, R-45 and R-41 were derived from bacteriocin based on their sensitivity to pH, heat and enzyme treatments. Crude bacteriocin derived from 6 LAB strains inhibited the growth of LM, and the highest antimicrobial activity was obtained in Streptococcus faecalis subsp. liquefaciens R-55 with an average inhibition zone of 13.87 mm. Bacteriocin produced by strain R-55 can be used as natural preservatives for the prevention of food-borne disease caused by LM.
Ant and termite diversity in Indonesian oil palm plantation: Investigating the effect of natural habitat existence
Authors: Rizali Akhmad , Karindah Sri , Windari Anna , Rahardjo Bambang , Nurindah Nurindah , Sahari Bandung
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Rizali A, Karindah S, Windari A, Rahardjo BT, Nurindah, Sahari B. 2020. Ant and termite diversity in Indonesian oil palm plantation: Investigating the effect of natural habitat existence. Biodiversitas 21: 1326-1331. Natural habitat existence in oil palm plantation has high conservation value and plays an important role in maintaining biodiversity. However, different taxa may have different responses to the presence of natural habitats. This research was aimed to investigate the effect of natural habitat existence on ant and termite diversity in oil palm plantation. The field research was conducted in oil palm plantation located in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. Twelve plots of oil palm plantation with different habitat characteristics were selected. Ants and termites were sampled using hand collection in six subplots for each plot. In total, 38 species of ants and 9 species of termites were collected from all research areas. The results showed that the area of natural habitats and the distance of oil palm field to natural habitats affected the diversity of termites in the oil palm plantation, but ant diversity did not show to be affected by the same conditions. Based on the generalized linear model, the area of natural habitats in the oil palm plantation had a negative relationship with the diversity of termites. In conclusion, the termite species community is more affected by natural habitats than ants in oil palm plantation.
Identification and expression of gonadotrophin hormones in gouramy (Osphronemous gouramy, Lacepède, 1801) under photoperiod manipulations
Authors: Prayogo Norman , Siregar Asrul , Sukardi Purnama , Bessho Yasumasa
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Prayogo NA, Siregar AS, Sukardi P, Bessho Y. 2020. Identification and expression of gonadotrophin hormones in gouramy (Osphronemoous gouramy, Lacepède, 1801) under photoperiod manipulations. Biodiversitas 21: 1365-1372. The environment influences fish reproduction. One of the influential environmental factors is photoperiod that regulates the production of hormones for gonad growth and development, gametogenesis, then the reproductive cycle. This research was conducted to determine the effect of photoperiod on the reproductive performance of gouramy with different photoperiod treatments. The design of this study was four photoperiod treatments consisting of 14L: 10D, 16L: 8D and 18L: 6D and controls. Fish samples were divided into 4 aquariums consisting of nine fish and repetition was conducted on each. Fish were kept under photoperiod treatment for 16 weeks. The observed variable was pituitary activity. Pituitary activity was evaluated by measuring the expression of FSH and LH genes using Real Time PCR. The results showed that gouramy had FSH and LH genes with 483 bp and 506 bp. FSH and LH gene expression increased with long photoperiod exposure (P <0.05). These findings indicate that photoperiods regulate the reproduction of gouramy through the HPG axis and control the production of the hormone Gonadotropin.
Assessing the conservation status of tree fern Cibotium arachnoideum (C. Chr.) Holttum
Authors: Praptosuwiryo Titien Ngatinem
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Praptosuwiryo TN. 2020. Assessing the conservation status of tree fern Cibotium arachnoideum (C.Chr.) Holttum. Biodiversitas 21: 1379-1384. Cibotium arachnoideum (C.Chr.) Holttum (Cibotiaceae), is a large terrestrial fern with an upright or prostrate rhizome having densely shining reddish-brown of rigid hairs and one or two pairs of sori with two indusia forming a small cup on each lamina-segment. This tree fern is a rare species and strictly distributed in the Malesian region. The study aims to assess the conservation status of C. arachnoideum by using the 2012 IUCN Red List Catagories and Criteria (version 3.1.). Population size was estimated and observed both based on specimens deposited at the Herbarium Bogoriense (BO) and field studies in Sumatra. The area of occupancy (AOO) of this species is 44 km2. Cibotium arachnoideum is occurred in severely fragmented locations in the West Malesian region, in 2 locations, viz. Sumatra and Borneo. Sumatra has only two subpopulations, and Borneo has nine subpopulations. The number of mature individuals was only found 372 in one location of North Sumatra and 19 individuals in one location of Bengkulu. Therefore, C. arachnoideum is proposed as an endangered species, En: B2ab (i,ii,iii) + C2a (ii).
The alien freshwater fish of Mount Galunggung, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Haryono Haryono , Wahyudewantoro Gema
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Haryono, Wahyudewantoro G. 2020. The alien freshwater fish of Mount Galunggung, West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 1401-1408. Mt. Galunggung, located in West Java, Indonesia, is an active volcano renowned for its deadly eruption in 1982. This area has many waters bodies, but the fish communities have not been recorded, especially the alien or introduced fish species. Hence, the objective of the present study was to determine the alien fish diversity, abundance, local distribution and utilization in Galunggung vicinity. The study was done in March 2013 using survey method covering 10 stations. Fish sampling was based on catch per unit of effort (CPUE) using mainly electrofishing, gillnet and cast net. A total of 24 species were recorded during the survey, in which 13 were listed as introduced species. Poecilia reticulata was the dominant species with 7.4 ind./St and followed by Xiphophorus helleri with 5.3 ind./St. Both species were also widely distributed on the sites with 70% local distribution. The alien species in this area are mostly used for ornamental fish.
Population structure of Geodorum densiflorum (Orchidaceae) in relation to habitat disturbance and vegetation characteristics
Authors: Nurfadilah Siti -
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Nurfadilah S. 2020. Population structure of Geodorum densiflorum (Orchidaceae) in relation to habitat disturbance and vegetation characteristics. Biodiversitas 21: 1422-1431. Habitat disturbance can have large impacts on the persistence, survival, and growth of plant populations, particularly for orchids, one of the most threatened plant families. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of habitat disturbance on the population of a terrestrial orchid, Geodorum densiflorum (Lam.) Schltr, in terms of its population structure which is important in determining population viability for the species survival. The species occurred in three habitat types (disturbed habitat i.e. totally converted habitat into cananga plantation, burnt habitat, and undisturbed habitat). Plots of 2 m x 2 m were established in these three habitat types and the population structure of G. densiflorum in these three habitat types was analyzed. After analysis, three population types could be distinguished (i) 'regressive population' in disturbed habitat characterized by the absence of seedlings and dominated by generative adults, (ii) 'dynamic population' in burnt habitat characterized by a large proportion of young individuals (seedlings and juveniles) relative to the adults, and (iii) 'normal population' in undisturbed habitat characterized by the prevalence of adults but a small proportion of young individuals. The variation in the population structure of G. densiflorum appears to be related to the difference in vegetation characteristics of the three habitat types. The absence of seedlings of G. densiflorum in disturbed habitat was related to the grasses dominating vegetation that could inhibit seedling recruitment of G. densiflorum. Grasses were absent and hardly occurred in burnt habitat and undisturbed habitat allowing seedling recruitments of G. densiflorum in these habitat types. The highest seedling proportion and density of G. densiflorum were observed in burnt habitat as burning can remove aboveground biomass and reduce competition with surrounding vegetation providing safe microsites for seedling establishment and recruitment. The present study has implication in the orchid conservation and provide recommendation for the orchid conservation (i) to avoid totally converted habitat as it had consequences on the absence of seedling recruitment (ii) to perform mowing and managed burning to increase seedling recruitment of G. densiflorum which is important for population enlargement, persistence, and survival.
Formation of upland rice drought-tolerant mutants by mutation induction and in vitro selection
Authors: Yunita Rossa , ISWARI S. DEWI  , ENDANG GATI LESTARI  , RAGAPADMI PURNAMANENGSIH  , SUCI RAHAYU  , MASTUR
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Yunita R, Dewi IS, Lestari EG, Purnamanengsih R, Rahayu S, Mastur. 2020. Formation of upland rice drought-tolerant mutants by mutation induction and in vitro selection. Biodiversitas 21: 1476-1482. Increased production can be done by increasing the planting area, but the available land is sub-optimal land with drought stress. Drought-tolerant rice varieties are needed to utilize this land. To create drought-tolerant rice can use induction mutation and in vitro selection methods. This study aims to obtain tolerant upland rice mutants through mutation and in vitro selection. The parents used were Batutegi and Situpatenggang varieties. This research consisted of several main activities, namely callus induction, determination of LD 50% value ofPEG determination of LC 50% value of gamma-ray irradiation, mutation induction and in vitro selection, bud regeneration and acclimatization. The results of this study are mutant callus formed by gamma-ray irradiation at a dose of 24.68 Gy for Situpatenggang and 22.15 Gy for Batutegi (LD50) and selected on PEG media at a dose of 24.11% for Situpatenggang and 25.18% for Batutegi (LC50). The mutant callus regenerated on MS + BA 3 mg/L + Zeatin 0.1 mg/L produced 83 Situpatenggang shoots and 73 Batutegi shoots and successfully acclimatized were 52 Situpatenggang lines and 49 Batuteg linesBatutegi
Expression of Mx exon-13 SNPs in Kampong-Laying Type (Kamper) chicken crossbreeds of female Lohmann brown-classic and male Pelung
Authors: Afifah Desiana , Lesmana Indra , Poerwanto Soenarwan Hery , Joko Tri , Mahardhika Swarautama , Daryono Budi Setiadi
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Afifah D, Lesmana I, Poerwanto SH, Joko T, Mahardhika IWS, Daryono BS. 2020. Expression of Mx exon-13 SNPs in Kampong-Laying Type (Kamper) chicken crossbreeds of female Lohmann brown-classic and male Pelung. Biodiversitas 21: 1483-1487. The Gama Ayam Research Team has implemented marker-assisted selection (MAS) in selective breeding to provide a faster, more accurate, and more reliable selection of chicken. Mx gene expression has a vital role in chicken disease resistance. This research aimed to investigate the expression of Mx exon-13 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the population of female Layer Lohmann Brown-Classic, male Pelung, and its progenies Kampong-Laying Type (Kamper) chicken. The G1892A mutation in Mx exon-13 resulted in a change in the amino acid 631 of Mx. The substitution of serine to asparagine favored the ability of chickens to acquire immunity against viral diseases, including avian influenza. Asparagine (A allele) at position 631 is specific to Mx+ (resistant), whereas serine (G allele) is specific to Mx− (susceptible). DNA was amplified using the forward primer 5ʹ-GCACTGTCACCTCTTAATAGA-3ʹ and the reverse primer 5ʹ-GTATTGGTAGGCTTTGTTGA-3ʹ and then sequenced using the Sanger sequencing method. Four SNPs were obtained through Mx sequence alignment. They consisted of four substitutions (A20734T, C20737T, A20766G, and A20893G) with one haplotype. Mx exon-13 SNPs were detected in Pelung and Kamper. Therefore, Kamper chicken inherited the disease resistance gene of Pelung and could be a strong candidate for parental generation in the further selective breeding program.
Growth, biomass and lipid productivity of a newly isolated tropical marine diatom, Skeletonema sp. UHO29, under different light intensities
Authors: Indrayani Indrayani , Haslianti Haslianti , Asmariani Asmariani , Muskita Wellem , Balubi Abdul Muis
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Indrayani I, Haslianti H, Asmariani A, Muskita WH, Balubi M. 2020. Growth, biomass and lipid productivity of a newly isolated tropical marine diatom, Skeletonema sp. UHO29, under different light intensities. Biodiversitas 21: 1498-1503. Light is one of the important factors affecting growth and biochemical composition of microalgae. The aim of this study was to determine growth, biomass and lipid productivity of a newly isolated marine diatom, Skeletonema sp.UHO29 under different light intensities. The Skeletonema sp. was cultured in 300 mL conical flasks containing 150 mL of f/2 medium under three different light intensities (28, 60 and 110 μmol photons m-2 s-1 ) with three replications. The cultures were incubated under ambient room temperatures, and a cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours dark, in batch modes for two weeks. The results showed that the highest specific growth rate (0.56 d-1) was achieved at the highest light intensity (110 μmol photons m-2 s-1) and the lowest (0.11 d-1) was obtained at the lowest light intensity (28 μmol photons m-2 s-1). The highest biomass yield (0.62 g L-1) and biomass productivity (0.34 g L-1 d-1) was achieved at the highest light intensity. However, the highest lipid yield (0.175 g L-1), lipid content (28.78% ash-free dry weight) and lipid productivity (0.067 g L-1 d-1) were achieved at medium light intensity. The alga prefers high light intensity for higher growth rate and biomass productivity but it produces more lipids at medium light intensity. This study indicated that the Skeletonema sp.UHO29 is a potential species for outdoor mass cultivation and is a promising microalgal strain for use as a biodiesel feedstock due to its high growth rate, high biomass and lipid productivity.
Identification Michelia alba barks extract using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and its antifungal properties to inhibit microbial growth
Authors: Swantara I Made Dira , Bawa I Gusti Agung Gede , Suprapta Dewa Ngurah , Agustina Kadek Karang , Temaja I Gede Rai Maya
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Swantara IMD, Bawa IGAG, Suprapta DN, Agustina KK, Temaja IGRM. 2020. Identification Michelia alba barks extract using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and its antifungal properties to inhibit microbial growth. Biodiversitas 21: 1541-1550. Fungicides are substances that inhibit the growth or kill the pathogenic fungi. A substance can be categorized as a fungicide if it shows antifungal activity. This activity is resulting from bioactive compounds derived from the secondary metabolites. Michelia alba bark’s extract could inhibit the growth of Curvularia verruculosa, the cause of leaf spot disease on rice. The purpose of this study was to analyze chemical compounds of bark extract which inhibit the growth of C. verruculosa. The extraction of bark metabolites of M. alba was done using methanol as the solvent. The inhibitory test of the extract was carried out by the diffusion well method on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium. Analysis of chemical compounds of the M. alba extract was carried out in Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. The results of inhibitory test found that the M alba bark extract inhibits the C. verruculosa with the inhibition zone as wide as 36 mm in diameter. The majority of chemical compounds identified from the M. alba extract consisted of 10 compounds, namely: Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester; 4H-tomentosine; 4H-tomentosine (compound isomer 2); 3-hydroxy pregn-4-ene-20-one; Tomentosine; 2-hydroxy tomentosine; Tert-butyl-2-aminophenylcarbamol; 2H-cyclohepta [b] furan-2-one, 3,3a, 4,7,8,8a-hexahydro-7-methyl-3-methylene-6-(2-formil-3-oxobutyl)-; Isoxanthanol and Xanthanol. To conclude, this extract is useful to treat C. verruculosa that causes leaf spot disease on rice.
The screening of phytochemical and antioxidant activity of agarwood leaves (Aquilaria malaccensis) from two sites in North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Ridwanti Batubara  , SURJANTO  , T. ISMANELLY HANUM  , ARBI HANDIKA  , ODING AFFANDI
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Batubara R, Surjanto, Hanum TI, Handika A, Afandi O. 2020. Phytochemical screening and antioxidant activity of agarwood leaves (Aquilaria malaccensis) from two sites in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 1588-1596. Agarwood of gaharu (Aquilaria malaccensis Lamk) has an antioxidant activity which can reduce free radicals. This research was conducted to analyze the chemical compounds of agarwood, and the antioxidant activities from two different grown sites, Laru, and Hutanabolon Village. Ethanol extracts of the agarwood leaves (EEAL) were obtained through maceration method. The phytochemical screening included the examination of secondary plant metabolites, while antioxidant activity was determined by free radicals scavenging activity against 1,1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). An observable parameter was the percentage of free-radical-reduction with different concentrations (40, 60, 80 and 100 ppm) and inhibitory concentrations (IC50) value by using regression equation. The phytochemical screening result showed that simplicia and EEAL from Laru grown site contained secondary plant metabolites, such as steroid/triterpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins, while simplicia leaves of agarwood from Hutanabolon grown site contained alkaloids, steroid/triterpenoids, saponins, and tannins, However, EEAL from Hutanabolon was found to only contain alkaloids. The f antioxidant activity of EEAL from Laru 27.887 ± 0.560 ppm was not different from Hutanabolon 27.807 ± 4.630 ppm. The EEAL from both Laru and Hutanabolon had a very strong antioxidant activity.
Review: Biodiversity of forests over limestone in Southeast Asia with emphasis on the Philippines
Authors: Paul John Tolentino  , JOHN RYAN L. NAVIDAD  , MARJORIE DELOS ANGELES  , DESAMARIE ANTONETTE P. FERNANDEZ  , ELAINE LOREEN C. VILLANUEVA  , REN DIVIEN R. OBEÑA  , INOCENCIO E. BUOT, JR.
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Tolentino PJS, Navidad JRL, Angeles MD, Fernandez AP, Villanueva ELC, Obena RDR, Buot Jr IE. 2020. Review: Biodiversity of forests over limestone in Southeast Asia with emphasis on the Philippines. Biodiversitas 21: 1597-1613. A comprehensive review of literature was carried out to determine the status of plant and animal diversity on forests over limestone in Southeast Asia (SEA), particularly in the Philippines. Angiosperm records are available in Peninsular Malaysia (1216 spp.); West Java and Seram Indonesia (101 and 149 spp., respectively); Laos (135 spp.); Thailand and Myanmar (1 sp.); and Limestone areas in Vietnam. Pteridophytes were recorded in Malaysia (32 spp.) while Bryophytes are recorded in Peninsular Malaysia (59 spp.). In the Philippines, there are plant records in: Masbate (61 spp.); Isabela (169 spp. Pteridophytes); Bohol (12 spp.), and Samar forests over limestone (29 spp. palms and 20 spp. orchids). A floral assessment in Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) includes species (212 spp.) that can possibly be found but are not limited to karsts. New Philippine endemic species are also recorded in Cebu, Palawan, and Panay Island. There are animal records in SEA including Vietnam (Bats-36, Bird-1, and Langurs-5 spp.); Malaysia (Sciuridae-1, Bats-28, Birds-129, Reptiles-17, and Invertebrates-74 spp.); Thailand (Murids-12, Reptiles-11, and Amphibian-1 sp.); and Myanmar (Reptiles-15 spp.). Records in the Philippines include: Mammals (Bicol-9, Mt. Irid-24, Mt. Aruyan-1, and Cebu-1 species), and; Birds (Cebu-1 sp.). A terrestrial faunal assessment in SINP includes species (182 spp.) that can possibly be found but are not limited to karsts. Forests over limestone are still largely understudied and the potential of discovering species is high. Further research is critical to establish science-based initiatives and policies that will protect and conserve limestone ecosystem biodiversity while allowing the utilization of its biological resources at a sustainable level.