Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effect of Peanut Shell and Rice Husk Bedding for Dairy Cows: An Analysis of Material Properties and Colostrum Microbiota

Simple Summary The provision of appropriate bedding is important for the welfare of dairy cows. Before bedding can be selected, it is critical to understand the properties of the bedding, including its impact on milk microbiota. The objective of this article was to evaluate the influence of three materials for use as bedding on physicochemical properties, bacterial counts and colostrum microbiota of cows. Our results demonstrate that peanut shells appear to be a suitable bedding material for cows. These experiments provide empirical support for the use of peanut shells and rice husks as bedding material for dairy cows and illustrates the effects of bedding types on the colostrum microbiota of dairy cows. Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate peanut shells and rice husks as bedding for dairy cows. We analyzed material properties including dry matter, water holding capacity, pH level and bacterial counts. Bedding treatments were compared with a one-way ANOVA using twelve cows split into three groups. Colostrum microbiota was analyzed by sequencing of the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Dry matter content was higher in rice husks compared with peanut shells. No treatment effects were found for water holding capacity and pH level. Streptococcus agalactia counts in peanut shell bedding were lower than in rice husk bedding, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa counts were not different between beddings. A significant enrichment for Enhydrobacter and Pantoea were detected in the colostrum of cows that used peanut shells compared with other beddings. Colostrum of cows housed on a peanut–rice combination had a greater relative abundance of Pseudomonas and Corynebacterium than those housed on peanut shells or rice husks. Higher numbers of Bacteroides, Akkermansia, Alistipes, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014, Coriobacteriaceae_UCG-002 and Intestinimona were found in the colostrum of cows housed on rice husk bedding over other bedding types. These results suggest that bedding types were associated with the growth and diversity of colostrum bacterial loads. In addition, dry matter in peanut shells was lower than found in rice husks, but there was also a lower risk of mastitis for peanut shell bedding than other beddings.
Relative Risk of Gastrointestinal Cancers in Isfahan County, Iran, 2005–2010

Background: Spatial disease mapping is a widespread tool in ecological analysis to obtain accurate estimates for incidence, relative risks (RRs), prevalence, or mortality rates regarding to increase the incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer in Isfahan in recent years. This study aimed to inspect the RR of GI cancer in Isfahan counties using empirical and full Bayesian model. Materials and Methods: Data of this ecological study were GI cancer cases which registered in health-care system of Isfahan University of Sciences during 2005–2010. We applied shared component model to model the spatial variation incidence rates of the GI cancers. We compared three models such as Gamma–Poisson, lognormal, and Besag, York, and Mollie (BYM) Bayesian. WinBUGS and GIS 10.1 software were used. Results: According to the fitted model, BYM model had best fit to the data. However, in general, ranks of RRs in most counties are identical; counties with higher RR in one map have higher RR in other maps. Geographical maps for three cancers in women were smoother than men. Isfahan has high RR in women, whereas this point is slightly different in men. Daran, FreidoonShahr, and Isfahan are cities which have high RR in esophagus, stomach, and colon cancer, respectively. Conclusions: Lognormal and BYM maps had very similar results. Despite some differences in estimation values, in nearly all maps arias Isfahan had high RR in GI cancer. It is recommended to promote the use of screening programs and increase awareness of people in high RR areas to reduce the incidence of GI cancer.
How Long Do Implanted Triclosan Sutures Inhibit Staphylococcus aureus in Surgical Conditions? A Pharmacological Model

(1) Background: Sutures with triclosan (TS) are used to reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSI), but most clinical trials are inconclusive. The traceability of SSI risk to antimicrobial activity in operated tissues is needed. (2) Objectives: This study aimed to predict triclosan antistaphylococcal activity in operated tissues. (3) Methods: Three TS were exposed to static water for 30 days, and triclosan release was recorded. Polyglactin TS explanted from sheep seven days after cardiac surgery according to 3Rs provided ex vivo acceleration benchmarks. TS immersion up to 7 days in ethanol-water cosolvency and stirring simulated tissue implantation. Controls were 30-day immersion in static water. The release rate over time was measured and fitted to a predictive function. Antistaphylococcal activity and duration were measured by time-kill analysis with pre-immersed polyglactin TS. (4) Fifteen to 60-fold accelerated in vitro conditions reproduced the benchmarks. The rate prediction with double-exponential decay was validated. The antistaphylococcal activity was bactericidal, with TS pre-immersed for less than 12 h before then S. aureus began to grow. The residual triclosan level was more than 95% and played no detectable role. (5) Conclusions: Polyglactin, poliglecaprone, and polydioxanone TS share similar triclosan release functions with parametric differences. Polyglactin TS is antistaphylococcal in surgical conditions for 4 to 12 h.
EXERGY ANALYSIS OF A SINGLE-CYLINDER FOUR-STROKE GASOLINE ENGINE

In developing countries, the four-stroke single-cylinder gasoline engine finds wide use. Motorcycles, tricycles and household machines like vegetable grinding machines are but a few of the machinery which run on this engine. Researchers have found that this engine is inefficient and consumes a lot of fuel, in light of sustainability and energy efficiency, this study aimed to perform an exergy analysis of a single-cylinder 4-stroke gasoline engine to determine how best its efficiency can be improved. Parameters such as brake thermal power, exergy efficiency, the quantity of exergy destruction and the component of the engine which is the most influential on its efficiency were determined while varying the engine’s torque. A G200K1 Honda engine was used as the study material. At the lowest tested torque of 9.4Nm, a corresponding brake power output of 2.4609kW and efficiency of 17.07% was measured, while at a higher torque 9.70Nm, a corresponding brake power output of 2.5395kW and efficiency of 17.62% was measured. It was also found that for every 1.06% rise in torque there is a corresponding 1.80% rise in brake power and exergy efficiency. It was concluded from the findings that the bulk of energy waste in the system comes from the high-temperature gas released from the engine’s exhaust. For the overall efficiency of four-stroke single-cylinder gasoline engines to be improved, the exergy destruction due to combustion should be minimised by optimizing the combustion temperature and reducing heat loss from the combustion chamber.
Production-Oriented Approach Applied in English as SLA Classroom of China

The “Production Oriented Approach” (POA) proposed by Professor Wen Qiufang separates input from output in Chinese English as SLA (Second Language Acquisition) classrooms. This review paper summarizes the articles published in domestic and foreign journals from 2007 to 2021 and concludes the definition of the POA as an effective localized English teaching approach which draws up the strengths of foreign theories. The article unscrambles the developments of the POA from its prototype “output-driven” hypothesis to its revised form “output-driven input-enabled” hypothesis. Subsequently, its optimization progress is discussed as a system consisting of teaching principles, teaching principles and teaching hypotheses. It points out the research trends of this theoretical fields and the strengths (i.e., learners’ motivation and autonomy, and effectiveness of improving English output) and weaknesses (i.e., individual differences, a lacking in-depth and holistic empirical research, and less scientific ways of assessments). Directions are also given to provide a reference for future research, application, and optimization of the POA.
Body Condition Score Change throughout Lactation Utilizing an Automated BCS System: A Descriptive Study

Simple Summary The aim of this study was to implement a commercially available automated body condition scoring (ABCS) camera system to collect data for developing a predictive equation of body condition dynamics throughout the lactation period. The body condition score can vary depending on many factors relative to a specific cow. Lactation number, DIM, disease status, and 305d-predicted-milk-yield (305PMY) were significant factors to create a multivariate prediction model for automatic body condition scores throughout lactation. Abstract Body condition scoring (BCS) is a traditional visual technique often using a five-point scale to non-invasively assess fat reserves in cattle. However, recent studies have highlighted the potential in automating body condition scoring using imaging technology. Therefore, the objective was to implement a commercially available automated body condition scoring (ABCS) camera system to collect data for developing a predictive equation of body condition dynamics throughout the lactation period. Holstein cows (n = 2343, parity = 2.1 ± 1.1, calving BCS = 3.42 ± 0.24), up to 300 days in milk (DIM), were scored daily using two ABCS cameras mounted on sort-gates at the milk parlor exits. Scores were reported on a 1 to 5 scale in 0.1 increments. Lactation number, DIM, disease status, and 305d-predicted-milk-yield (305PMY) were used to create a multivariate prediction model for body condition scores throughout lactation. The equation derived from the model was: ABCSijk = 1.4838 − 0.00452 × DIMi − 0.03851 × Lactation numberj + 0.5970 × Calving ABCSk + 0.02998 × Disease Status(neg)l − 1.52 × 10−6 × 305PMYm + eijklm. We identified factors which are significant for predicting the BCS curve during lactation. These could be used to monitor deviations or benchmark ABCS in lactating dairy cows. The advantage of BCS automation is that it may provide objective, frequent, and accurate BCS with a higher degree of sensitivity compared with more sporadic and subjective manual BCS. Applying ABCS technology in future studies on commercial dairies may assist in providing improved dairy management protocols based on more available BCS.
Modulation of the Epithelial-Immune Cell Crosstalk and Related Galectin Secretion by DP3-5 Galacto-Oligosaccharides and β-3′Galactosyllactose

Prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) were shown to support mucosal immune development by enhancing regulatory-type Th1 immune polarization induced by synthetic CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (TLR9 agonist mimicking a bacterial DNA trigger). Epithelial-derived galectin-9 was associated with these immunomodulatory effects. We aimed to identify the most active fractions within GOS based on the degree of polymerization (DP), and to study the immunomodulatory capacities of DP3-sized β-3′galactosyllactose (β-3′GL) using a transwell co-culture model of human intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) and activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). IEC were apically exposed to different DP fractions of GOS or β-3′GL in the presence of CpG, and basolaterally co-cultured with αCD3/CD28-activated PBMC, washed, and incubated in fresh medium for IEC-derived galectin analysis. Only DP3-5 in the presence of CpG enhanced galectin-9 secretion. DP3-sized β-3′GL promoted a regulatory-type Th1 response by increasing IFNγ and IL-10 or galectin-9 concentrations as compared to CpG alone. In addition, IEC-derived galectin-3, -4, and -9 secretion was increased by β-3′GL when combined with CpG. Therefore, the GOS DP3-5 and most effectively DP3-sized β-3′GL supported the immunomodulatory properties induced by CpG by enhancing epithelial-derived galectin secretion, which, in turn, could support mucosal immunity.
A Novel Deep Learning Model to Predict Ultimate Strength of Ship Plates under Compression

The evaluation of ship strength during the hull structure design stage is essential for structural safety. Additionally, plate is one of the basic structural members of the hull, it is important to analyze and predict the ultimate strength. The curved plate used for shipbuilding must be able to withstand repeated axial loads and complex loads, and stability needs to be confirmed through ultimate strength analysis. In general situations, the magnitude of the transverse compression is smaller than that of the longitudinal and combined loads, but transverse compression causes different physical behaviors from the longitudinal load state, which affects the ultimate strength, so study on the ultimate strength of the curved-plate under transverse compression is essential. Therefore, in this paper, a curved plate under transverse compressive load was selected as a subject, and the ultimate strength of the curved plate under the corresponding compression condition was predicted using a deep learning model. To obtain the training data for the deep-learning model, 4050 cases were selected and analyzed using the ANSYS. The accuracy of the model was verified by comparing the results predicted by the model and empirical equations with those of the FEM analysis. The study shows that it is possible to consider the ultimate strength more efficiently in the initial design stage of the ship.
The burden of coronary heart disease in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation: coronary angiography as a diagnostic method for all? - a retrospective study

Abstract Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease, which is frequently asymptomatic. This risk increases significantly in those with nephropathy. In selected patients, simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation is the renal and pancreatic replacement therapy of choice, as it increases longevity and stabilizes diabetic complications. Despite essential, universal screening protocols are still controversial for coronary artery disease in this population. Methods: We retrospectively analysed 99 simultaneous pancreas-kidney recipients from our centre from 2011 to 2018 and selected 77 patients who underwent coronary angiography during the pre-transplant evaluation. Our aim was to identify potential risk factors associated with significant lesions on coronary angiography. Results: Almost half of our cohort of 77 candidates submitted to coronary angiography had coronary artery disease. Of these, nearly 30% underwent revascularization, although only one of them reported symptoms of myocardial ischemia. In a univariate analysis, the presence of smoking habits was the only risk factor for coronary artery disease. We also found that 20 or more years of type 1 diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with the presence of coronaropathy. Discussion: Selection of diabetic candidates with acceptable cardiac risk before simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation is imperative. Given the impact of a correct diagnosis and a low procedural risk, we defend the routine use of coronary angiography as the initial screening method for coronary artery disease in this population. Particularly care must be taken in evaluating asymptomatic patients with long-term type 1 diabetes mellitus and smokers.
Indigofera zollingerianan Effect as a Subtitute of Concentrate on Growth of Etawa Goats to Digestibility of Fiber Fractions

This study was aimed to determine the effect of giving Indigofera zollingeriana as a substitute for concentrate in the diet of Etawa crossbreed goats during growth fed by field grass on fiber fraction digestiility. This study used an experimental method with a Randomized Block Design with 3 treatments and 4 replications. The dietary treatments consisted of (P1) field grass 60% + Indigofera zollingeriana 10% + concentrate 30%, (P2) field grass 60% + Indigofera zollingeriana 20% + concentrate 20%, (P3) field grass 60% + Indigofera zollingeriana 30% + 10% concentrate. The observed variables were the digestibility of the fiber fractions consisting of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), cellulose and hemicellulose. The results showed that the replacement of concentrate with I. zollingeriana did not have a significant effect (P>0.05) on the digestibility of NDF, ADF, cellulose and hemicellulose. The results showed that the substitution of concentrate with I. zollingeriana up to 30% in the diet had a significantly different effect (P>0.05) on the digestibility of the fiber fraction. The digestibility range of NDF, ADF, cellulose, and hemicellulose were 68.15%-71.55%, 50.59%-56.06%, 72.38%-75.41% and 91.15%-92.57%, respectively. This study concluded that the use of 30% Indigofera zollingeriana as a substitute for concentrate in the diet of the Etawa goat showed the highest digestibility value of the fiber fractions. It’s composition of the ration was 60% field grass + 30% Indigofera zollingeriana + 10% concentrate (P3 ration).
Factors Affect the Sorption and Degradation of and Rostenedione in Three Typical Agricultural Soils From Different Regions

Androstenedione is a natural steroid hormone and endocrine disruptor. Batch and laboratory microcosm experiments and studies were conducted to investigate its adsorption and degradation in three soils. The Freundlichparameter Kf of androstenedione in the tested soils. Cattle manure dissolved organic matter (DOM) at 20 mg C·L−1 decreased androstenedione sorption in the three soils Degradation rate positively correlated with content clay and silt, while negatively with content of sand under same conditions. Soil moisture significantly affected the persistence of androstenedione in red soil and black soil, whereas there was no significant difference in alluvial soil. Androstenedione half-life increased, ranging from 2.04d to 17.33d under soil temperatures of 20°C,10°C, and freeze-thaw cycles between +10°C and−10°C. Androstenedione degradation was inhibited in black soil at -10°C. Androstenedione degradation significant affected by soil texture and environmental factors, manure DOM inhibitedandrostenedione sorption in three soils and can increase its transport to water sources.
Forecasting Students Dropout: A UTAD University Study

In Portugal, the dropout rate of university courses is around 29%. Understanding the reasons behind such a high desertion rate can drastically improve the success of students and universities. This work applies existing data mining techniques to predict the academic dropout mainly using the academic grades. Four different machine learning techniques are presented and analyzed. The dataset consists of 331 students who were previously enrolled in the Computer Engineering degree at the Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD). The study aims to detect students who may prematurely drop out using existing methods. The most relevant data features were identified using the Permutation Feature Importance technique. In the second phase, several methods to predict the dropouts were applied. Then, each machine learning technique’s results were displayed and compared to select the best approach to predict academic dropout. The methods used achieved good results, reaching an F1-Score of 81% in the final test set, concluding that students’ marks somehow incorporate their living conditions.
Transient and persistent technical efficiency and its determinants: the case of crop farms in Austria

ABSTRACT We analyse persistent and transient technical efficiency of crop farms in Austria from 2003 to 2017 by estimating the four-component stochastic frontier model using a multi-step procedure and extend it to account for heterogeneity bias by introducing the Mundlak adjustments. Moreover, we examine the determinants of both transient and persistent technical inefficiency. Results show that farms with favourable natural conditions, a higher share of family labour, and a lower share of owned land are more persistently efficient. Farm specialization, size, and farmers’ age are positively associated with transient efficiency, while subsidies have adverse impacts. Significant technological progress coupled with, on average decreasing technical efficiency indicates a diverging sector.
Household Food Insecurity Evidence among Rural Pastoralist Community in South Omo, Ethiopia

Background: Food insecurity is a significant public health problem in developing nations particularly in Ethiopia. During COVID- 19, food insecurity has worsened as result of lock down in most part of Africa as well as Ethiopia. In this regard, several studies have been conducted in central and agrarian communities, yet there is little evidence of studies on food insecurity in pastoralist communities. Thus, the study aimed to assess the burden and factors associated with food insecurity at rural pastoralist community. Methodology: A community-based, comparative cross-sectional study conducted among 536 households. Pre-tested and structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Data were entered in Epi info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 25 for data analysis. Results: The overall prevalence of food insecurity in this study area was 88% [95% CI: 88.2, 91.0]. Low land agro-ecology [(AOR=3.1, 95% CI: (1.5, 6.3)], pastoralist community [AOR=3.7, 95% CI: (1.6, 8.7)], low wealth index [(AOR=2.5, 95% CI: (1.1. 3.6)], and larger family size composition which were statistically significant with food insecurity at household level. Conclusion: The burden of food insecurity was 88% in the study area. This was substantially high level and a severe public health problem. Low wealth index, family size, and low land agro ecology were contributing factors for food insecurity. Therefore, policy makers and local administration advised to invest pastoralist income generating intervention and modernize agricultural technology to tackle food insecurity in the study area.