bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tricuspid valve detachment for ventricular septal defect closure: A meta-analysis of existing evidence
Authors: Yuan Dou , Chen Li ping , ling Xiao , Qian Yongjun
Published: August 2022

Background: Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is one of the most
common congenital cardiac defects, However, in some cases VSD sites are
difficult to expose due to obstruction from chordal attachments and
leaflets of the tricuspid valve (TV)[6](#ref-0006). To
systematically review the efficacy and safety of tricuspid valve
detachment,( TVD) versus conventional surgical repair ( non-TVD) in the
treatment of ventricular septal defect ( VSD) ．This article is aimed to
compare the many outcomes from existing studies and provide evidence
regarding the necessity of performing TVD. Methods:We searched
the following databases: PubMed via NCBI, the Cochrane Central Register
of Controlled Trials (no date restriction),Medline via Ovid (from 1966
to May 2020); Embase via Ovid (no date restriction) and China National
Knowledge Infrastructure for studies comparing the efficacy of tricuspid
valve detachment (TVD) and other surgical techniques in VSD repair.
Cardiopulmonary bypass time, Cross-clamp time; postoperative
complications including residual defect ,Postoperative atrioventricular
block ,Implantation of pacemakers, tricuspid regurgitation ;Length of
stay, Length of ICU stay were analyzed． Results: Only 9
studies were included after selection (Table 1), including 7
retrospective cohort studies, 1 respective cohort study and 1
prospective observational stud，a patient pool of 1404 patients with 374
underwent TVD and 1030 underwent non-TVD procedures,met the inclusion
criteria．Meta analysis has drawn to the following conclusions. Firstly,
TVD prolongs CPB time (MD=7.75, 95% CI=2.60-12.89, p=0.003) and
cross-clamp time(MD=7.77, 95% CI=4.76-10.78, p<0.001)
compared with non-TVD techniques in VSD repair surgeries. Secondly, no
significant difference exists in LOS, length of ICU stay, postoperative
atrioventricular block, implantation of pacemakers, incidence of ≥mild
TR postoperatively and at discharge, as well as incidence of ≥small
residual VSD after surgery and during follow-up( all P ＞ 0.
05). Thirdly, application of TVD increases the risk of TR during
follow-up(OR=2.42, 95% CI=1.55-3.76, p<0.001).
Conclusion: VSD closure using TVD technique results in longer
CPB and cross-clamp time, and increases risk of TR during follow-up. TVD
provides equally viable and safe alternative in treating VSD．
Role of Regional Anesthesia in Patients with Acute Sickle Cell Pain: A Scoping Review
Authors: Rizvi Munaza Batool , Kessler David O. , Rabiner Joni E.
Published: August 2022

Sickle cell disease is the most prevalent inherited blood disorder in
the world, with significant morbidity and mortality. Patients often have
recurrent painful vaso-occlusive episodes, and the American Society of
Hematology gives a conditional recommendation for the use of regional
anesthesia for acute sickle cell pain management. This scoping review
summarizes the current evidence and identifies gaps for future research.
Our screening process is outlined, and articles that mentioned the use
of regional anesthesia for acute sickle cell crises were included. We
present and interpret our results and highlight opportunities for future
investigation.
A Population Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Model Evaluating Efficacy of Nalbuphine Extended-Release in Patients with Prurigo Nodularis
Authors: Eudy-Byrne Rena , Riggs Matthew , Hawi Amale , Sciascia Thomas , Rohatagi Shashank
Published: August 2022

Population pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacokinetic- pharmacodynamic
(PK-PD) models were used to quantify the exposure-response (E-R)
relationship between nalbuphine exposure and 2 widely used rating scales
for itch: the Numerical Rating Scale for the subject’s ‘average’ itch
experience (NRS-AV) and the Worst Itch (WI-NRS), with 24-hour recall.
Simulations based on the model E-R relationship were used to support
dose selection for future clinical investigations and were evaluated
with a target of reducing the 7-day average of the 24-hour WI-NRS by at
least 30% from baseline in the majority of the analysis population.
Data from two clinical trials (NCT02373215: 9 healthy subjects;
NCT02174419: 62 subjects with PN), in patients with Prurigo Nodularis
(PN) with moderate to severe itch who received treatment with either of
2 doses of Nalbuphine ER versus placebo, were used for the analysis. A
two-compartment PK model with serial zero and first-order oral
absorption was used to describe drug exposure. A sigmoidal maximum
effect (Emax) model with a placebo effect was used to model the itch
response endpoints (NRS-AV, WI-NRS). The PK/PD model adequately
predicted the exposure-related reduction in both NRS-AV and WI-NRS over
time with approximately 63% and 27% of Emax, respectively. Exposures
associated with 80% of Emax were achieved in about 78% of the patients
at 162 mg BID compared to 35% at 81 mg BID. Simulated dose-response
indicated that 108 and 162 mg BID doses result in the highest proportion
of patients achieving at least a 30% reduction in NRS-AV and WI-NRS,
respectively.
COVID-19 pandemic and rabies: a case report study
Authors: Shadani Shiva , Soltani Hosseinali , Shekari Shima
Published: August 2022

Rabies is an acute, progressive, and incurable viral encephalitis. The
patient was a 13-year-old boy that the Cerebrospinal fluid PCR for
rabies and covid-19 test was positive. In emergencies such as the
Covid-19 epidemic, an animal disease monitoring strategy should be
considered in infectious disease control programs.
Accident Analysis And Prevention Template
Authors: Khanh Nguyen Do Duc
Published: August 2022

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luctus, pulvinar augue id, suscipit diam. Morbi aliquet fringilla nibh,
vel pellentesque dui venenatis eget. Orci varius natoque penatibus et
magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec ultricies
ultrices magna gravida porta. Maecenas accumsan diam dui, auctor ornare
ex pellentesque id. Integer tempus massa id augue finibus convallis.
Nulla vestibulum, nisl id tempor pulvinar, felis dui pellentesque lacus,
quis bibendum metus enim sed ex.
Transgenerational plasticity in a zooplankton in response to temperature elevation and parasitism
Authors: Sun Syuan-Jyun , Dziuba Marcin , Jaye Riley , Duffy Meghan
Published: August 2022

Organisms are increasingly facing multiple stressors, which can
simultaneously interact to cause unpredictable impacts compared to a
single stressor alone. Recent evidence suggests that phenotypic
plasticity can allow for rapid responses to altered environments,
including biotic and abiotic stressors, both within a generation and
across generations (transgenerational plasticity). Parents can
potentially ‘prime’ their offspring to better cope with similar
stressors, or, alternatively, might produce offspring that are less fit
because of energetic constraints. At present, it remains unclear exactly
how biotic and abiotic stressors jointly mediate the responses of
transgenerational plasticity, and whether this plasticity is adaptive.
Here we test the effects of biotic and abiotic environmental changes on
within- and trans-generational plasticity using a
Daphnia-Metschnikowia zooplankton-fungal parasite system. By
exposing parents and their offspring consecutively to the single and
combined effects of temperature elevation and parasite infection, we
showed that transgenerational plasticity induced by temperature and
parasite stress influenced host fecundity and lifespan; offspring of
mothers that were exposed to one of the stressors were better able to
tolerate temperature elevation, compared to offspring of mothers that
were exposed to neither or both stressors. Yet the negative effects
caused by parasite infection were much stronger, and this greater
reduction in host fitness was not mitigated by transgenerational
plasticity. We also showed that temperature elevation led to a lower
average immune response, but the nature of its relationship with
fecundity reversed under elevated temperatures; this suggests that
parents that were exposed to parasites can potentially prime their
offspring to respond to the joint stressors of both temperature
elevation and parasite infection. Together, our results highlight the
need to address questions at the interface of multiple stressors and
transgenerational plasticity, and the importance of considering multiple
fitness-associated traits when evaluating the adaptive value of
transgenerational plasticity under changing environments.
Flavokawain A suppresses the vasculogenic mimicry of HCC by inhibiting CXCL12 mediated EMT
Authors: Xiao Ting , Bao Jiali , Lin Rong , Tian Jiao , Zhang Zihui , Zhu Yuxin , He Yiming , Gao Dandi , Sun Ronghao , Zhang Fubo , Cheng Yexin , Shaletanati Jiadelati , Zhou Honggang , Xie Chunfeng , Yang Cheng
Published: August 2022

Background and Purpose Hepatocellular carcinoma has high ability of
vascular invasion and metastasis. Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is closely
related to the metastasis and recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma
(HCC). According to previous research, Chloranthus henryi has anti-tumor
effect, but its molecular mechanism in the treatment of HCC has not yet
been stated. In our study, we aimed to investigate the effect of the
extract of Chloranthus henryi in HCC and its target and molecular
mechanism. Experimental Approach In this study, we isolated a chalcone
compound from Chloranthus henryi, compound 4, identified as flavokawain
A (FKA). We determined the anti-HCC effect of FKA by MTT and identified
the target of FKA by molecular docking and CETSA. Hepatoma cells
proliferation, migration, invasion, and VM formation were examined using
EDU, wound healing, transwell, vasculogenic mimicry, and IF. WB, RT-PCR,
and cell transfection were used to explore the mechanism of FKA on
hepatoma cells. Tissue section staining is mainly used to demonstrate
the effect of FKA on HCC in vivo. Key Results We confirmed that FKA can
directly interact with CXCL12 and HCC proliferation, migration,
invasion, and VM formation were all inhibited through reversing the EMT
progress in vitro and in vivo through the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling
pathway. Additionally, by overexpressing and knocking down CXCL12, we
got the same results. Conclusion and Implications FKA attenuated
proliferation, invasion and metastatic and reversed EMT in HCC via
PI3K/Akt/HIF-1α/NF-κB/Twist1 pathway by targeting CXCL12. This study
proposed that FKA may be a candidate drug and prospective strategy for
HCC therapy.
Piper Plant Classification using Deep CNN Feature Extraction and Hyperparameter Tuned Random Forest Classification
Authors: A Pravin  , Dr. C.Deepa
Published: August 2022

The plant has numerous uses in medicine, food, and industry and plays a major role in environmental protection. Hence it is crucial to identify and classify the specific plant species. In the agriculture production and botanical area, plant classification for images of leaves is considered the basic research. Due to the higher dimensionality and nature complexity of leaf image data, various effective algorithms are required to perform the classification of specific plant species. Hence, in this study, all plant types and specific piper plant types are considered and classified based on the Hyperparameter tuned random forest algorithm due to its effective optimal hyperparameter tuning. Piper plants are selected in this research since they possess significant medicinal applications. Significantly the Deep CNN approach is considered an effective feature extraction of all plants such as tomato, apple, cherry, and others and also piper plants like piper mulesa, piper nigrum, and others. However, initially the effective pre-processing of data augmentation to reduce overfitting and increase the amount of data and feature scaling for data features normalization are established. The experimental results show that the proposed hyperparameter tuned random forest classifier shows better results of showing an accuracy value of 0.94 for all plants and 0.88 value for piper plant compared with other machine learning algorithms like SVM, naïve Bayes, and Logistic regression.
Accountants’ Views on Sustainability Reporting: A Generational Divide
Authors: Bakarich Kathleen M. , Hoffmann Marissa , Marcy Amanda S. , O’Brien Patrick
Published: August 2022

Accountants potentially have a major role to play as the field of sustainability reporting grows. Surveying 173 accountants, we find that the majority are unfamiliar with many of the existing sustainability frameworks and that 31 percent have current experience working in sustainability reporting. Comments from respondents also indicate that there is some hesitation by older generations as to whether sustainability falls within accountants’ roles and responsibilities, whereas respondents under 30 indicated greater enthusiasm for the future of sustainability reporting. With the prospect of mandatory Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sustainability reporting and assurance looming, these results are critical as firms and professionals prepare for these potential changes. Shifting market demands and new generations entering the workforce may impact the professional accounting landscape as companies seek to recruit and retain top talent who are excited about the prospects of working with sustainability information.
Wisconsin's Lavish Lure for Foxconn: An Instructional Case in Governmental Accounting
Authors: Burke Qing L. , Feng Nancy Chun , Neely Daniel G.
Published: August 2022

In 2017, Wisconsin signed one of the largest U.S. business incentive contracts with Foxconn Technology Group, a Taiwanese electronics corporation best known as the main assembler of Apple's iPhone. In exchange for Foxconn's pledge to build a $10 billion manufacturing complex and hire 13,000 workers, Wisconsin's state and local governments offered more than $4 billion in subsidies. However, Foxconn's promises were unfulfilled. This case uses Wisconsin's lavish deal with Foxconn to examine the causes and complexities of targeted business incentives deployed by state and local governments. The case further analyzes Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports to assess the impact of the Foxconn project on governments' financial condition. This case is intended for courses with a governmental accounting component. It is scalable, and instructors can choose from multiple parts of the case questions according to their needs.
In situ observation of dynamics of keyhole and molten pool in laser welding for development of spatter suppression
Authors: Arita Tomoki , Sato Yuji , Kurita Yoshiaki , Mizutani Masami , Nakano Hitoshi , Tsukamoto Masahiro
Published: August 2022

A real-time observation system for a longitudinal section of molten pool and temperature distribution was developed directly in real time by a combined system with the glass transmission method and two-color temperature analysis to clarify the mechanism of spatter generation during laser welding. A stainless-steel-type 304 (SS304) was employed in this study because of its application in many industries. The SS304 was set in a vacuum chamber and then a disk laser with an output power of 10 kW was irradiated and scanned on it to form a weld bead. At the same time, the behavior of the molten pool and keyhole was captured with the real-time temperature observation system and an x-ray transmission system, respectively. As a result, the temperature of the longitudinal section of the molten pool formed by laser irradiation under atmospheric pressure was about 1500 °C; however, at 10 Pa, it reached about 1700 °C, indicating that the temperature increases with a decrease in the ambient pressure. Furthermore, the fluctuation in the longitudinal sectional area of the keyhole and molten pool was evaluated. It was found that the average fluctuation in the longitudinal sectional area of the molten pool was 1.7% at 10 Pa and that of the molten pool was 18.8% under atmospheric pressure.
Sosial tilhørighet, sammenbindende fellesskap og kollektiv mobilisering
Authors: Ihle Ragnhild
Published: August 2022

This chapter is about social cohesion, belongingness, and social capital. The introduction presents perspectives on the significance of social cohesion and how it is created, followed by a discussion on how belongingness and the sense of community has weakened in the postmodern era. Robert Putnam connects this process to concepts of falling social capital. Hall and Lamont connect it to traits of new liberalism, and Pina Jabral presents a divide between an individual and a dividual way of relating to the world. Finally, we ask how community work can create a bonding community either through co-creation, linking social capital or through the creation of social resilience.
Samfunnsarbeid i digitale nabolag: Tre perspektiver på unge kvinner med innvandrerbakgrunn sine vilkår for deltakelse på sosiale nettverkssider
Authors: Agdal Rita , Sakariassen Hilde , Spjeldnæs Ingrid Onarheim
Published: August 2022

This chapter explores the conditions for participation on social networking sites (SNS) for young women with immigrant background. SNS provide social arenas and potential communities. To shed light on the conditions for participation on SNS we employ three perspectives: from Paulo Freire, who has been central to community work; from danah boyd, who brings a media studies perspective; and Robert Putnam's perspectives that have been vital in both disciplines. Understanding conditions for participation is crucial to community work and community development, as mobilisation of citizens is integral to their practice. In media studies, the understanding of SNS is that the framework for participation is a result of the intersection of people, technology and practice. We discuss how these perspectives bring out different aspects of conditions for participation on SNS and how they may enrich each other.
Prevalence of Obesity is Rising among Primary School Children in Dhaka City of Bangladesh
Authors: Hasanat MA
Published: August 2022

Background: The rising prevalence of childhood obesity poses a major public health challenge and needs to be addressed accordingly. Aims and Objectives: To see the frequency of overweight and obesity in primary school children of Dhaka city and to analyze the impact of socioeconomic status and associated hypertension on the anthropometric indices. Materials and Methods: Multistage random cluster sample of 504 children of 9-14 years (age: 11.31±1.39, M±SD; M/F: 256/248) was done. The obesity and overweight were considered using an updated body mass index (BMI) reference, waist circumference (WC), waist height ratio (WHtR) and waist hip ratio (WHR). Socioeconomic status, life style factors as well as blood pressure were considered as influencing factors. Results: About 13.0% (64/504) were underweight, 63.5% (320/504) normal weight, and 12.9% (65/504) overweight and 10.9% (55/504) obese. Most of normal and overweight BMI status was from middle class (51.6% and 55.4% respectively). By WHtR about 55-70% children belonged to normal BMI status while 22.6% was obese. Systolic and diastolic hypertensions were found in 19.9% and 29.8% respectively. BMI correlated with age WHtR, WC, WHR, systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as socioeconomic condition (p<0.001 for all). WHtR, WC, WHR (P<0.001 for all) were independent predictors for BMI. Conclusions: Prevalence of obesity is on rise in Bangladeshi children. It is high time for the concerned authority and the stakeholders to initiate appropriate measures to combat this rising prevalence.
Frequency of Prediabetes According to Optimal Cut-Points for Body Mass Index in Saudi Population
Authors: SJ Aljabri Khalid
Published: August 2022

Background and Objective: The prevalence and incidence of prediabetes are increasing worldwide. Body mass index (BMI) cut-off for prediabetes can vary. The objective of this study is to identify the optimal BMI cut-off that is associated with prediabetes. Methods: For the present study, we analyzed participants who are equal to or older than 18 years old. A total of 5498 were selected to be enrolled for the present study. All patients were from the population of the primary health and diabetic Centers at King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital. Participants were defined as having prediabetes according to selfreport, clinical reports, use of antidiabetic agents and HbA1c (5.7-6.4). All data were collected by personal interview and on the basis of a review of electronic medical data. Weight (kg) and height (cm) were measured by physician and nurse interviewers and recorded. The optimal sensitivity and specificity using different BMI cut-off values to predict the presence of prediabetes were examined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Of the 5498 participants analyzed, 2049 (37.3%) were male and 3449 (62.7%) were female with female to male ratio 1.7:1. Age was 42.7 ± 15.8 (minimum 18 years and maximum 105 years ) and males were significantly older than females (45.3 ± 16.6 vs. 41.1 ± 15.1 respectively, p<0.0001). BMI was 29.6 ± 6.9Vwhere females had higher BMI than males (30.1 ± 7.5 vs. 28.8 ± 5.5 respectively, p<0.0001). Prediabetes was present in 579 (10.5%), 89 (15.4%) were male and 490 (84.6%) were female with female to male ratio 5.5:1. Diagnostic performance of BMI in detecting prediabetes using optimal BMI cut-off values based on the shortest distance in ROC curve showed BMI values ranged from 28.50 to 29.50 in total population, 27.50 to 28.50 in male and from 28.50 to 29.50 in female. The AUC was 0.560 (95% CI, 0.503- 0.617) in male and 0.517 (95% CI, 0.490-0.544) in female. The predictive value of BMI in detecting prediabetes using BMI cut-off values based on the lowest significant association between BMI and the risk factors from the logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of prediabetes was significantly increased at BMI values as low as 21 kg/m2 and has not been increased as BMI increased. Applying this criterion to identify the cut-off values resulted in improvements in sensitivity, false negative rate and worsening in specificity and false positive rate. Using these lower BMI cut-offs resulted in a very small false negative rate ranging from 0.07 to 0.09. A significant positive association for total population was observed with BMI values starting at 21 kg/m2 and non significant association with BMI values for both genders. Conclusion: The diagnostic usefulness of BMI alone in defining obesity as risk for prediabetes is limited among men and women Saudi adults.
Frequency of Metabolic Syndrome According to Optimal CutPoints for Body Mass Index in Saudi Population
Authors: SJ Aljabr Khalid
Published: August 2022

Background and Objective: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) are increasing worldwide. Body mass index (BMI) cut-off for MetS can vary. The objective of this study is to identify the optimal BMI cut-off that is associated with MetS. Methods: For the present study, we analyzed participants who are equal to or older than 18 years old. A total of 5498 were analyzed at the present study. Patients were recruited from the population of the primary health care department at King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital. Metabolic risk factors were defined using the 2006 International Diabetes Federation criteria. We collected data personal interview and electronic medical chart review. Physician and nurse interviewers measured the weight (kg) and height (cm) of the participants and BMI was calculated. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to obtain the optimal sensitivity and specificity using different BMI cut-off values to predict the presence of diabetes. Results: Of the 5498 participants analyzed, 2049 (37.3%) were male and 3449 (62.7%) were female with female to male ratio 1.7:1. Age was 42.7 ± 15.8 (minimum 18 years and maximum 105 years). MetS was present in 1967 cases (35.8%) where 673 cases (38.8%) were male and 1204 cases (61.2%) were female with female to male ratio 1.6:1, P=0.08. Males were significantly older than females in MetS patients (45.5±12.8 vs. 36.1±13.3 respectively, p<0.0001). BMI was significantly higher in MetS patients (31.9±6.6 vs. 28.3±6.7 respectively, p<0.0001). Optimal BMI cut-off values ranged from 28.50 to 29.50 in total population, 27.50 to 28.50 in male and from 28.50 to 29.50 in female. The AUC was 0.615 (95% CI, 0.590-0.639) in male and 0.686 (95% CI, 0.668-0.704) in female. Regression analysis showed that the risk of MetS was significantly increased at BMI values as low as ≤15.0 kg/m2 and increased progressively as BMI increased for both genders. Applying this criterion to identify the cut-off values resulted in improvements in sensitivity, false negative rate and worsening in specificity and false positive rate. A very small false negative rate ranging from 0.001 to 0.005 resulted by using these lower BMI cut-offs. Conclusion: The diagnostic usefulness of BMI alone in defining obesity in patients with MetS is limited among men and women Saudi adults.
Hypertriglyceridemia and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Metabolic Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tangvarasittichai Surapon
Published: August 2022

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are associated with artherogenic dyslipidemia and abnormal postprandial lipoprotein metabolism which consists with elevated fasting and postprandial triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs), small dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol as cardiovascular disease risk factors. These abnormal lipids concentrations can result from alterations in the production, conversion, or catabolism of lipoprotein particles. Whereas the liver is the central organ in lipogenesis, gluconeogenesis and cholesterol metabolism and the intestine is also a major role in lipoprotein production. However, many research studies demonstrated a variety of pathological conditions focused on the metabolic functions within the liver. As observed in the world population, increase in the prevalence of MetS and T2DM promotes pathophysiological from atherogenic dyslipidemia and cause non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Alterations in insulin activity, response and signaling are held accountable for these alterations in lipid storage, transport and-oxidation. This review focuses on dysfunctions and alterations in increased lipoprotein production prolongs dyslipidemia, hepatic lipid uptake, storage and metabolism in the clinical of NAFLD in MetS and T2DM patients, and may directly contribute to cause atherogenesis in these patients.
Dermatomyositis Disease in Dogs
Authors: Ruggero Errante Paolo
Published: August 2022

Canine dermatomyositis is an inflammatory vasculopathy from skin and muscles, with cutaneous manifestations involving face, ears, tail and distal ends over bony prominences. The muscles involved include the muscles of the head, leading to difficulty in swallowing, reduction of reflex of vomit. Some animals have muscle changes that lead to the development of an atypical gait. Canine dermatomyositis is classified in familial canine dermatomyositis with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance, and the variant form called dermatomyositis-like. Familial canine dermatomyositis is the standard example of generalized ischemic skin disease, which occurs mainly in young dog’s breed Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs. The scientific evidences appointed that canine dermatomyositis has genetic basis that involve the emergence of an immune-mediated disease, which can be triggered by environmental factors. Causes of focal or multifocal alopecia, such as demodicosis, bacterial folliculitis, and dermatophytosis, should be included in the differential diagnosis of disease. The genetic basis of canine disease is complex, and news studies revealed three loci associated with disease in canine breed Shetland sheepdog. The diagnosis is based on clinical history, physical examination findings, and skin biopsy of the affected muscle, electromyogram, and laboratory tests. The standard therapy instituted in canine dermatomyositis includes the use of glucocorticoids, pentoxifylline and vitamin E. Unfortunately, the treatment need news options to improve best quality of life in dogs affected.
New Record of Brown Widow Spider (Latrodectus geometricus Koch, 1841) in Ha’il Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hamad Aloufi Bandar
Published: August 2022

Brown Widow Spider (Latrodectus geometricus) is recorded for the first time in Hail Region of Saudi Arabia .Three specimens of brown widow spider (L. geometricus ) were found and collected on October, 2021 from inside a beehive in Al Hait city (Southern of Ha’il region of Saudi Arabia). The specimens were collected and submitted to Biology department of Hail University for the identification of morphological characters and DNA barcode sequence analysis of the specimen. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to compare the DNA sequence of the newly discovered female brown widow spider with the other species of Latrodectus genus.
Coastal Small Pelagic in Senegal: What Strategies to Sustainably Improve the Added Value Generated
Authors: Diedhiou Idrissa
Published: August 2022

This study assesses the share of the added value generated by coastal small pelagic fisheries in Senegal. The methodology is based on the reconstitution of the operating accounts of the different segments of artisanal fishing. The intermediate consumption of the value chain was the subject of field surveys. The results reveal that fuel is the most significant operating cost for small-scale maritime fishing units; on the other hand, for fish traders and processors, it is raw materials (fish). Overall, the average annual added value generated by sedentary senegalese coastal pelagic fisheries is estimated at $44.628 million US over the period 2014 - 2018. More than 44% of this added value ($20.661 million US) is generated by the production segment. The fishmonger and artisanal processing segment generated 10.744 and $11.570 million US, respectively. The added value of the freezing segment is the lowest, less than $1.653 million US per year. Improving this added value will not be possible through a continuous increase in landings due to the over-capacity of the means of production deployed in the fishery and the resulting state of overexploitation of resources. It is no longer a question of producing more but of making the best use of current levels of exploitation. That involves identifying bottlenecks in the value chain and finally proposing points for improvement likely to overcome them in the long term.
Fauna of Arthropods Presents in Hot Caves in the Province of Villa Clara, Cuba
Authors: Fimia-Duarte Rigoberto
Published: August 2022

A characterization of the arthropod fauna is carried out in two "hot caves" in the province of Villa Clara: Cave of the Maja’s, located in the town of Buenavista in the municipality of Remedios; and Cave of the Coloradas, located on a homonymous hill, in the town of Zulueta belonging to the municipality of Remedios. The arthropods were collected using conventional methods. In the hot room of the Cave of the Maja’s, the temperature fluctuates around 36°C and the relative humidity varies between 98 and 100%. In the final galleries of the Cave of the Coloradas, temperatures are moderately high (29- 4°C), with a relative humidity ranging from 70 to 85%, both caves are classified in the category of “heat caves”. Following the criteria of Armas and Alayón (1984), Ortuño (2011), based on the proposals of the Schiner - Racovitza system (Trajano and Carvalho, 2017), the species identified were classified into Troglobess, Troglophiless, and Trogloxens. Conclusions were drawn from the climatic and faunal points of view and warnings were made about the harm that these underground ecosystems are being subjected to, due to the anthropic action.
The Distribution and Bioecological Aspects of Sandflies (Diptera, Psychodidae) in the Municipality of Araguaína, State of Tocantins, Brazil
Authors: Luiz Vilela Maurício
Published: August 2022

Sandflies are nematocerous dipterans that present significant diversity and geographic distribution and are responsible for the transmission of protozoa of the genus Leishmania. In Brazil, leishmaniases is emerging and is undergoing a clear geographic expansion, marked in all geographic regions. In recent decades, the state of Tocantins has reported human cases of visceral and tegumentary leishmaniasis and, in this context, knowledge about the composition of the sandfly fauna and distribution of these dipterans can contribute to surveillance and control actions. Monthly captures with CDC light traps (model HP) were carried out during 42 months in four monitoring stations (EM), two in the urban area and two in the rural area of the municipality of Araguaína, located in the northern region of Tocantins. A total of 8,518 sandflies, belonging to 37 species, were captured and the presence of five potential vectors of Leishmania spp., Lutzomyia longipalpis, Bichromomyia flaviscutellata, Psychodopygus ayrozai, Nyssomyia whitmani and Nyssomyia antunesi were detected. The analysis of ISA and SISA revealed that Evandromyia bourrouli, Evandromyia carmelinoi, Nyssomyia antunesi, Nyssomyia whitmani and Evandromyia walkeri were the most abundant species and the six species showed significant correlation between the sandflies captured with meteorological variables of up to four months.
Modern Evolutionary Biology: Some Concepts, Questions and Comments in Relation to Birds
Authors: García Peiro Ignacio
Published: August 2022

There are four principles in evolution: variation, inheritance, selection and time. These principles summarizes natural selection. In the same way, sexual selection can be defined as the evolution of certain conspicuous physical traits, such as pronounced coloration, increased size, or striking adornments that may grant the possessors of these traits greater success in obtaining mates. Both concepts join on time in the branch termed evolutionary biology (EB). Current EB since Darwin had a primer at the end of the past century in the Trivers-Wilard’s hypothesis based on the relationships of parents’ effort with the condition of offspring. This hypothesis has required new brands termed “Sex-allocation“, “Parental Investment”, “Delayed Maturation” and “Sexy-sons” to conform the framework of the current EB. Here, I try to summarize the key concepts of these theories trying to bring the theme towards birds.
Copper and Zinc Levels in the Liver Tissue of Healthy Cattle Affected by Fasciola hepatica in a Slaughterhouse
Authors: Fimia Duarte Rigoberto
Published: August 2022

Fasciolosis is considered the most important liver disease in animals, the most notorious damages are caused by death, it causes a reduction in the production of meat, wool and milk, seizure of affected organs, secondary infections by bacteria, interference with fertility and expenses derived from its treatment. The objective of this research was to determine the relationship of Cu and Zn levels in the liver with the affectation by Fasciola hepatica in slaughterhouse cattle. Determinations of Cu, Zn, ash and dry matter were carried out using the atomic absorption spectrophotometry technique in healthy liver tissue affected by fasciolosis in 40 cattle slaughtered in the slaughterhouse. The association between possible risk factors for hepatic Cu and Zn values below the critical limit and the event of livers affected by F. hepatica was carried out in a retrospective case-control observational study. The levels of Cu and Zn in healthy livers affected by F. hepatica in cattle slaughtered in the municipal slaughterhouse of Sagua la Grande, Villa Clara, Cuba are deficient and show low reserves of these microelements with values below the critical value. No association was found between Cu and Zn levels in liver tissue with liver involvement by F. hepatica in slaughterhouse cattle, although it was observed that slaughtered cattle with hepatic Zinc values lower than the critical limit are affected approximately two times more due to fasciolosis than bovines with normal hepatic zinc values.
“Proof of Concept” Rabbit Experiments Demonstrating GHR106 (hIgG4) as GnRH Antagonist
Authors: Lee Gregory
Published: August 2022

“Proof of Concept” (P-o-C) experiments in rabbits were conducted to demonstrate reversible suppressions of serum reproductive hormones (LH, testosterone or E2) upon a single injection of a humanized monoclonal antibody against human GnRH receptor, GHR106 (hIgG4). In the case of a male rabbit, a single subcutaneous injection of either 1 mg/kg or 3 mg/kg of the antibody was shown to reduce concurrently the serum LH and testosterone concentrations by 60 to 80% for a period of one week or longer. The reproductive hormone levels returned to the normal range after next two weeks. Similarly, the suppressions of LH and estradiol (E2) were also observed within two days upon a single injection of GHR106 (hIgG4) in the female. The E2 levels can decrease to 30-60% of the normal over a period of one week followed by full recovery of both hormones during the next 5-10 days. P-o-C experiments were expanded to a scale of more than 30 rabbits with identical protocols to those of a single rabbit, in addition to the comparisons with those of the negative control. Reversible suppressions of reproductive hormones were observed consistently with all rabbits in the antibody injection groups, and were shown to be statistically significant. The circulation half-life of GHR106 (hIgG4) in rabbits was estimated to be 4 ± 1 day. Therefore, the results of this study revealed that GHR106(hIgG4) can be used as antibody-based long- acting GnRH antagonist with similar biological actions to those of decapeptide GnRH antagonist such as Cetrorelix or Antide. The relatively long half-life of the antibody-based GnRH antagonist, however, may be more beneficial to the treatment of gynecological and fertility-related diseases which may be caused by modulations of human GnRH receptor in humans, and also in other animal species for fertility controls.
Molecular Analysis of Pomphorhynchus kashmirensis based on 18S rDNA and ITS-rDNA
Authors: OM Amin
Published: August 2022

Pomphorhynchus kashmirensis Kaw, 1941 was redescribed to correct inadequacies in the original description. We provide a molecular characterization to qualify its now completed morphological description and to compare with related taxa. Sequences of the 18S rDNA and ITS-rDNA datasets of specimens of P. kashmirensis were generated for assessment of gene diversity and the phylogenetic analyses. Comparative sequence analysis indicated interspecific variation between P. kashmirensis with different species of Pomphorhynchus was 0.2-1.4% and 2.4-36.4% based on 18S rDNA and ITS-rDNA datasets, respectively. The ITS-rDNA region is more variable than 18S rDNA within members of the family Pomphorhynchidae and it appears appropriate for assessment of their biodiversity. Our phylogenetic analyses showed that taxonomic position of the species P. kashmirensis is closely related with P. tereticollis and P. laevis. Also, the systematic status of Tenuiproboscis and Longicollum is uncertain within the family Pomphorhynchidae. Therefore, further molecular investigations will be needed for better understanding of the phylogenetic relationships in this family.
Morphometric Analysis and Sexual-Size Dimorphism of Myotis punicus (Chiroptera, Mammalia) in Bejaia (North Algeria)
Authors: Ahmim Mourad
Published: August 2022

In the past, morphometric studies were restricted to quantitative description. In recent years, the use of morphometric has increased in ecological research and has been well recognized as a new approach in morphological studies, because morphometric data have been proven to be an important source of information to understand many biological phenomena especially in bats. According to specialists on chiropterology external morphology is commonly used to identify bats as well as to investigate flight and foraging behavior, typically relying on simple length and area measures or ratios. Traditionally three species of the genus Myotis belonging to the family Vespertilionidae have been reported from the Maghreb: M. myotis, M. punicus, and M.blythii, but recent studies indicate that only the maghrebian mouse- eared bat Myotis punicus occurs there. This species is difficult to identify as it has a mixture of characters from both the other two species. Therefore, its systematic position has long been troubled. The morphometric analysis of the species was done only in Corsica (France), Malta and Europe but not in Algeria, the current paper presents the result of a its morphometric data and a sexual-size dimorphism. The IUCN red list of threatened species (2008) lists Myotis punicus as deficient data, indicating that more data are needed for categorization and population trends.
Fecal Cortisol Dynamics of Captive Giraffes in Zoos in Northern Japan
Authors: Kooriyama Takanori
Published: August 2022

Animals in zoos are kept under environmental conditions differing from those of their original habitat. Recently, zoos have been attempting to reduce stress by introducing environmental enrichment. Adrenal-derived glucocorticoids are common stress indicators found in blood, saliva, urine, and feces. Fecal cortisol levels have been studied as a stress marker in captive giraffes, but the data are insufficient. In this study, we examined fecal cortisol in captive giraffes in northern Japan to increase basic data on fecal cortisol as an indicator of environmental enrichment. For one month, we collected fecal samples from 14 giraffes [Masai giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) and reticulated giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata)] from eight zoos. The fecal samples were stored at –20 °C until fecal cortisol levels were measured using a cortisol EIA kit after drying, grinding, and ethanol extraction. Cortisol levels were compared between males and females, pregnant and nonpregnant animals, by age, and by differences in temperature of the rearing environment. The fecal cortisol levels ranged from 37~10346 pg/g. Among females, pregnant individuals had the highest values. Among nonpregnant females, a female that was harassed by a male had higher fecal cortisol levels than the others. This may be due to chronic psychological distress. In males, values varied greatly among individuals. This study increases the volume of giraffe fecal cortisol data, which will contribute to establishing basic giraffe fecal cortisol values.
Influence of Sunflower Meal, Dry Disstiler’s Grain and Alfalfa Silage as Protein Sources in the Feeding of Lambs after 25 kg
Authors: Stoycheva Ina
Published: August 2022

The aim of the present study is to compare the effect of including in rations sunflower meal, dry disstiler’s grain and alfalfa silage as protein sources when feeding breeding lambs after 25 kg live weight. 30 male and female lambs from the Pleven blackface sheep breed were used. The intake of concentrated feed from one animal is highest in lambs fed alfalfa silage (0,866 kg DM / day).The lowest cost for KER is observed for lambs fed on a dry disstiler’s growth based ration. The average daily growth on the 14th day is the highest, in the group fed with a ration based on dry disstiler’s grain - 294g. While on the 28th day, the average daily gain was highest in the group of lambs fed silage (296g), and on the 42nd day the same group maintained its highest growth (292g) compared to the other two groups. The lambs fed with three rations based on three protein sources (alfalfa silage, sunflower meal and dry disstiler’s grain) achieved an average daily growth of up to 0,291 g, and the differences in growth between the three groups of lambs were insignificant.
Biological Basis for Morality: The Surthrival Principle
Authors: Kass Leonard
Published: August 2022

In this work, I argue that biology provides the basis for morality and that a Surthrival Principle forms its fundamental core. This principle best leads to humans’ long-term success as a species. I describe how the Surthrival Principle, derived from established biological tenets, consolidates and accounts for various pronounced maxims (e.g., the United Nations “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”). I apply the Surthrival Principle to show objectively why some practices, popularly considered to be moral, are not. I extend the Surthrival Principle to all moral-capable beings, rendering it universal. Finally, I suggest how this ethos naturally provides purpose to the individual beyond itself.
The Theory of Utilitarianism as Complement of Interspecific Interactions of Commensalism, Cooperation and Mutualism Puzzle
Authors: Chintiroglou Chariton Sarl
Published: August 2022

Biotic interactions and their categorization are discussed in this article with examples from the international literature. The aim is to clarify certain terms that presumably raise questions in relevant research. The necessity of borrowing terms from the human sciences such as that of utilitarianism is established in order to improve the descriptions of the various individual terms of the symbiosis phenomenon. The spatial and temporal context of a relationship should be thoroughly considered in order for descriptions to be as true to reality as possible.
Levels Consumption of Sea Rabbit (Dolabella auricularia) Extract Microcapsule Mixed Feed in Goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Authors: Nur Indriyani
Published: August 2022

This research aimed to determine the level of sea rabbit (Dolabella auricularia) extract microcapsule-mixed feed on consumption in goldfish (Carassius auratus). The extraction process was done by maceration method using a single solvent, namely ethyl acetate, while in making microcapsules, 1% of sodium alginate was used as a coating. The animals tested which used were goldfish with their size 7.56 ± 0.3 g and they were kept for 30 days. These animals tested were divided into two groups; the fish group that was fed with 7.7% sea rabbit extract and the control fish group or without sea rabbit extract microcapsules. The foods given was as much as 3% of fish body biomass in the morning and evening with protein ranging from 42-44%. The results showed that the highest absolute growth rate in feeding which had been mixed with sea rabbit extract microcapsules had a value of 3.16 g, food consumption rate was 62.84 g, the efficiency of feeding was as much as 29.49% while the value of conversion ratio of feeding was 3.39. From those results of this research, it can be concluded that the use of feed which had been mixed with sea rabbit extract microcapsules could increase the absolute growth, feed consumption level, the efficiency of feeding so that it was potential to be developed as a supplement in fish feed.