bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of decentralizing outpatient acute malnutrition treatment with community health workers and a simplified combined protocol: a cluster randomized controlled trial in emergency settings of Mali
Authors: López-Ejeda Noemí , Charle-Cuéllar Pilar , Samake Salimata , Dougnon Abdias Ogobara , Sánchez-Martínez Luis Javier , Samake Mahamadou N’tji , Bagayoko Aliou , Bunkembo Magloire , Touré Fanta , Vargas Antonio , Guerrero Saul
Published: February 2024

Background

Outpatient treatment of acute malnutrition is usually centralized in health centers and separated into different programs according to case severity. This complicates case detection, care delivery, and supply chain management, making it difficult for families to access treatment. This study assessed the impact of treating severe and moderate cases in the same program using a simplified protocol and decentralizing treatment outside health centers through community health workers (CHWs).

Methods

A three-armed cluster randomized controlled trial under a non-inferiority hypothesis was conducted in the Gao region of Mali involving 2,038 children between 6 and 59 months of age with non-complicated acute malnutrition. The control arm consisted of 549 children receiving standard treatment in health centers from nursing staff. The first intervention arm consisted of 800 children treated using the standard protocol with CHWs added as treatment providers. The second intervention arm consisted of 689 children treated by nurses and CHWs under the ComPAS simplified protocol, considering mid-upper arm circumference as the sole anthropometric criterion for admission and discharge and providing a fixed dose of therapeutic food for severe and moderate cases. Coverage was assessed through cross-sectional surveys using the sampling evaluation of access and coverage (SLEAC) methodology for a wide area involving several service delivery units.

Results

The recovery rates were 76.3% in the control group, 81.8% in the group that included CHWs with the standard protocol, and 92.9% in the group that applied the simplified protocol, confirming non-inferiority and revealing a significant risk difference among the groups. No significant differences were found in the time to recovery (6 weeks) or in anthropometric gain, whereas the therapeutic food expenditure was significantly lower with the simplified combined program in severe cases (43 sachets fewer than the control). In moderate cases, an average of 35 sachets of therapeutic food were used. With the simplified protocol, the CHWs had 6% discharge errors compared with 19% with the standard protocol. The treatment coverage increased significantly with the simplified combined program (SAM +42.5%, MAM +13.8%).

Implications

Implementing a simplified combined treatment program and adding CHWs as treatment providers can improve coverage while maintaining non-inferior effectiveness, reducing the expenditure on nutritional intrants, and ensuring the continuum of care for the most vulnerable children.
Factors related to satisfaction with community-based home aging services in Shandong, China
Authors: Wang Yujing , Zhang Qi , Huang Laigang , Zeng Fanshuo
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study investigated the satisfaction of current community-based home care services and its factors in adults aged ≥60 years.

Methods

Using stratified cluster random sampling, we surveyed 1,494 older adults in Jinan and Qingdao, Shandong province, between 2021 and 2023. The baseline and satisfaction surveys were designed by our research team, and the questionnaires were conducted in the form of structured interviews. Kruskal-Wallis H-test and Logistic regression analysis were used to explore the influencing factors of satisfaction.

Results

The satisfaction was mainly affected by age (p = 0.007), marital status (p < 0.001), pre-retirement occupation (p = 0.003), economic source (p < 0.001), and mode of residence (p = 0.001) in the study of 1,494 older adults. Under the influence of multiple factors, the evaluation of older adults services, married [OR = 4.039, 95% CI: 1.176–13.877] were more inclined to be average, and their occupations were agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, fishery, and water production workers [OR = 0. 237, 95% CI: 0.068–0.819] and production and transportation equipment operators and related personnel [OR = 0.153, 95% CI: 0.024–0.966] or [OR = 0.153, 95% CI: 0.029–0.820] tended to be more dissatisfied.

Conclusion

The satisfaction level of community-based home care services is relatively high among older adults, and it is mainly affected by factors such as age, marital status, pre-retirement occupation, source of financial resources, and mode of residence. Addressing the emotional needs of older adults, lowering the cost of aging, and integrating health care and aging seamlessly are among the ongoing challenges that we need to tackle.
Trees and sidewalks: toward an infrastructure protection approach
Authors: Otero-Durán Laura , Torres Andrés
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Nature-based solutions are increasingly recognized as vital components of urban resilience strategies, particularly within the framework of green infrastructure. This study aims to propose an approach that fosters symbiosis between green and gray infrastructure to address the challenges posed by climate change in urban environments.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive review of guidelines and scientific literature to inform the selection of species and the design of root containers for urban tree planting. Additionally, we performed a multicriteria analysis and assessed water comfort to guide decision-making regarding species selection in specific city areas.

Results

The methodology was applied to a case study in Bogotá, yielding insights applicable to any city with basic knowledge of suitable species for planting in built public spaces. Crucial criteria for selecting local species for sidewalks were identified, including size, permeability, soil compaction characteristics, and climatic adaptability. A list of desirable species adapted to all humidity zones of the case study city was generated. Hydrological sizing methods proposed are contingent upon both the species to be planted and the geometry of the streets.

Discussion

The approach and findings presented in this study promote the development of trees and their ecosystem services while mitigating potential damage to surrounding infrastructure.

Conclusion

Implementing strategies that facilitate symbiosis between green and gray infrastructure contributes to urban resilience and aids in climate change adaptation efforts.
Hitting Moving Targets in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Fagerstrom Jessica M. , Bry Victoria N. , Colbert Caroline M. , Windsor Cheyann
Published: February 2024

In this article, we will explore the way radiation can be used to treat cancer. Radiation for cancer therapy consists of high-energy particles or light that can damage living cells, including cancer cells. Radiation beams can be generated using a special machine, called a linear accelerator, and they are precisely aimed at a patient’s cancer. When cancer is located near the patient’s lungs, the cancer moves around as the patient breathes in and out. Hitting the cancer with the radiation beam can be hard when the cancer does not stay still. It is a little like trying to hit a moving target in a video game. In that case, there are some tricks that patients and radiation therapy workers can use to make sure that the radiation beam hits the cancer and misses healthy organs.
Effect of the pre-taper level of fatigue on the taper-induced changes in performance in elite swimmers
Authors: Bretonneau Quentin , Morales-Artacho Antonio , Pla Robin , Bosquet Laurent
Published: February 2024

Introduction

In swimming, performance gains after tapering could be influenced by the pre-taper level of fatigue. Moreover, this level of fatigue could be associated with sleep. This study aimed to assess (1) the effect of tapering on performance according to the pre-taper level of fatigue in swimmers and (2) the association between sleep and pre-taper level of fatigue.

Methods

Physiological, psychological and biomechanical profiles were evaluated in 26 elite swimmers on 2 occasions to estimate the pre-taper level of fatigue: at T0 and T1, scheduled respectively 10 and 3 weeks before the main competition. Sleep quantity and quality were also evaluated at T0 and T1. Race time was officially assessed at T0, T1 and during the main competition. The level of significance was set at p ≤ .05.

Results

Fourteen swimmers (17 ± 2 years) were allocated to acute fatigue group (AF) and 12 swimmers (18 ± 2 years) to functional overreaching group (F-OR). From T1 to the main competition, performance was improved in AF (+1.80 ± 1.36%), while it was impaired in F-OR (−0.49 ± 1.58%, p < 0.05 vs. AF). Before taper period, total sleep time was lower in F-OR, as compared to AF. Conversely, the fragmentation index was higher in F-OR (p = .06). From wakefulness to sleep, body core temperature decreased in AF but not in F-OR.

Discussion

Performance gain after tapering was higher in AF swimmers than in overreached. Moreover, pre-taper sleep was poorer in overreached swimmers, which could contribute to their different response to the same training load. This poorer sleep could be linked to a lower regulation of internal temperature.
Exploring countermovement jump variables across competitive levels and playing positions in futsal
Authors: Spyrou Konstantinos , Alcaraz Pedro E. , Martínez-Serrano Antonio , Marín-Cascales Elena , Ferioli Davide , Contreras Jean Paul Santis , Ribeiro João Nuno , Travassos Bruno , Freitas Tomás T.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The aims of this study were to compare several countermovement jump (CMJ) kinetic variables between professional (PRO) and semi-professional (SEMI-PRO) futsal players and examine the differences amongst playing positions.

Methods

CMJ performance from 56 male futsal players (25.2 ± 4.8 years; weight: 74.4 ± 6.4 kg) was analysed. Players were separated into PRO (n = 29; 27.0 ± 4.4 years; 75.4 ± 6.0 kg) and SEMI-PRO (n = 27; 22.7 ± 4.3 years; 73.1 ± 6.8 kg), and according to playing position: defenders (n = 16; 25.4 ± 3.7 years; 75.2 ± 6.0 kg), wingers (n = 26; 23.5 ± 4.5 years; 72.0 ± 6.9 kg), and pivots (n = 14; 28.0 ± 5.6 years; 77.8 ± 4.3 kg). Linear mixed models and effect sizes were used for the analyses based on the mean of two jumps for each variable.

Results

PRO players presented a deeper center of mass (COM) displacement (p = 0.002, ES = 0.83), greater eccentric (Ecc) absolute (p = 0.019, ES = 0.61) and relative peak power (p = 0.046, ES = 0.52), and achieved greater Ecc peak velocities (p = 0.004, ES = 0.76) when compared to SEMI-PRO. Non-significant and trivial-to-small differences were observed in all the other CMJ variables according to the competitive level and playing position.

Discussion

Ecc capabilities (i.e., deeper COM displacement, greater Ecc absolute and relative peak power, and peak velocity) during vertical jump seem to differentiate PRO and SEMI-PRO players. However, CMJ variables do not discriminate amongst playing positions in futsal players.
Application of legumes in the formulation of gluten-free foods: functional, nutritional and nutraceutical importance
Authors: Imam Yunus Temitayo , Irondi Emmanuel Anyachukwu , Awoyale Wasiu , Ajani Emmanuel Oladipo , Alamu Emmanuel Oladeji
Published: February 2024

This study presents a review of the application of legumes in the formulation of gluten-free foods (GFFs), with emphasis on their functional, nutritional, and nutraceutical importance. Consumption of GFF and abstinence from gluten-containing foods are the only options for managing celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Its formulation has also increased due to the increasing desire for healthy food by consumers. Recently, legume crops, such as Phaseolus vulgaris (bean), Brachystegia eurycoma (bean pod), Detarium microcarpum (sweet detar), Cetatonia siliqua (carob fruit), Cicer arietinum (chickpea), Pisum sativum (pea), Lens culinaris (lentil), and Vigna subterranean (Bambara nut) have been used in the production of GFFs. They belong to the family Leguminosae (Fabaceae), grown for their high protein content, and are the most important crop after cereals. Using legume flours as ingredients in GFFs formulation provides functional, nutritional, and nutraceutical benefits. They enhance the functional properties of GFFs, including volume, crumb, texture, and sensory qualities. They also improve the GFFs’ nutritional properties, especially protein and dietary fiber, as well as their nutraceutical properties, such as laxative, anti-hyperglycemic, and antioxidant properties. Hence, adding legumes to GFF formulations might be a good way to enhance their functional, nutritional, and nutraceutical properties.
Agroecological planning of productive systems with functional connectivity to the ecological landscape matrix: two Colombian case studies
Authors: Acevedo-Osorio Álvaro , Cárdenas Jonathan Salas , Martín-Pérez Angela Maribeth
Published: February 2024

Given the need for agricultural system management under sustainability principles, identification and quantification of the landscape structure surrounding production systems is a tool that allows farmers to make their agroecological transition processes more appropriate. An ACI with eight indicators was proposed for farm assessment. This ACI is focused on functional connectivity both at farm and landscape levels. Two Colombian farms with different connectivity characteristics were evaluated under the index. Tosoly presented a stronger ecological structure and higher connectivity and diversity. Villa Alicia showed a weak ecological structure and low connectivity and complexity. From a systemic approach, the ACI allows an analysis of landscape structural conditions that promote ecological functions of pollination and biological controllers. With landscape structural conditions, it is possible to analyze the quantity and quality of the habitat for designing agroecological transition programs focused on obtaining productive agroecosystems that simultaneously comply with conservation strategies.
Exploring the untapped potential of naturally occurring antimicrobial compounds: novel advancements in food preservation for enhanced safety and sustainability
Authors: Karnwal Arun , Malik Tabarak
Published: February 2024

Current research trends emphasize the strategic utilization of natural and renewable resources, specifically within food and medicine, focusing on naturally occurring antimicrobial compounds. While growing interest is in extracting secondary metabolites from plants, bacteria, and enzymes, a substantial portion of these naturally derived molecules remains inadequately explored. These antimicrobial agents exhibit heightened safety compared to their synthetic counterparts, posing no health risks to consumers. This presents an opportunity to replace perilous synthetic chemicals within the food sector. Despite the increasing popularity of natural additive sources, there is a potential for adverse effects on product sensory qualities. Therefore, notwithstanding recent advancements, further investigation is imperative to optimize effective quantities for the successful inhibition of pathogenic microorganisms. This article delves into pioneering developments in food preservation, offering contemporary insights into natural preservation solutions, especially for perishable commodities.
Dietary shifts and the need for increased sustainability approaches in the global aquaculture seafood system
Authors: Mizuta Darien D.
Published: February 2024

Recent shifts in the global dietary preferences have indicated the fast-growing choice for plant-based, or meat-reduced diets. Among the motivations for such choices, which are increasingly advocated by nations and environmental institutions, is the major concern with global environmental sustainability and impacts of food production systems. Incontestably, the animal food source industry is extremely diverse, and seafood production through the aquaculture value chain remains unfamiliar to key stakeholders possibly leading to an uncomprehensive view and often biased perception of the farming industry within the environmental context. Accordingly, I discuss the importance of seafood production systems, such as the fastest seafood production that is the aquaculture sector, to increase their focus on the sustainability arena with more substantial and effective improvements for sustainable production, and most importantly, concomitantly informing end consumers. I mention examples of types of sustainability efforts that can be implemented and highlight the urgency of actively informing customers about implemented practices.
Domestic dog attacks on livestock referred to a Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Authors: Gonzaga Mariana da Costa , Borges José Renato Junqueira , Alves Teresa Souza , Sousa Davi Emanuel Ribeiro de , Castro Márcio Botelho de , Câmara Antonio Carlos Lopes
Published: February 2024

Losses and the economic impact of dog attacks (DAs) on livestock are often overlooked and include factors such as decreased production, expenses for treatment and handling, and death of injured animals. This study evaluated the epidemiological, therapeutic, and pathological findings of DAs on livestock over an 11-year survey using the records of farm animals referred to a Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Livestock attacked by dogs included 31 sheep, 11 horses, 3 cattle, 3 goats, and 2 pigs, totaling 50 animals. Anatomical locations injured by dog bites were identified as head/neck, thoracic/pelvic limbs, abdomen/flank, rump/tail, and multiple affected regions (two or more bite sites). Additionally, the severity of the injuries was classified into four degrees adapted from the classification of dog bite injuries in children. Most livestock presented Grade 1 (26%) and Grade 2 (28%) injuries, while Grade 3 and Grade 4 injuries were observed in 46% of DAs. Furthermore, 35 animals (70%) were discharged, 9 (18%) died, and 6 (12%) were humanely euthanized. DAs may represent a significant cause for referring livestock species to clinical care, severe injuries, and a considerable number of deaths. In this study, we provide information regarding DAs on livestock for the first time in Midwestern Brazil.
Effects of Individual Client’s Competencies on Construction Project Performance: Mediating Participation Attitude and Partnership
Authors: Park Kanghee , Kim Boyoung
Published: February 2024

Within a construction project, the clients are categorized as private individuals, private companies, public institutions, etc. In this research, the private client is identified as a non-professional individual building owner and is involved in making decisions and solving problems for successful construction project performance. However, irrational decision-making and conflicts frequently occur with project delay and poor performance because the individual clients are normally non-professionals and lack the capacity to lead various stakeholders on the project. This study analyzes the effects of the project managerial competencies of the private individual clients on the construction performance. The client’s competencies were defined as ‘personal’, ‘social’, and ‘professional’ factors, and participation attitude and partnership were used as the mediating factors. The offline survey was conducted with 241 building owners in South Korea. The result indicates that personal and professional competencies had a positive effect on project performance, whereas social competency did not have an effect. Personal competency had the greatest effect on participation attitude and partnership. Social and professional competencies had a positive effect on partnership, not participation attitude. Hence, this shows that the personal competencies of the building owner as the end user of the project related to cognition, planning, and decision-making are important for project success.
Objective Detection of Trust in Automated Urban Air Mobility: A Deep Learning-Based ERP Analysis
Authors: Li Yuhan , Zhang Shuguang , He Ruichen , Holzapfel Florian
Published: February 2024

Urban Air Mobility (UAM) has emerged in response to increasing traffic demands. As UAM involves commercial flights in complex urban areas, well-established automation technologies are critical to ensure a safe, accessible, and reliable flight. However, the current level of acceptance of automation is insufficient. Therefore, this study sought to objectively detect the degree of human trust toward UAM automation. Electroencephalography (EEG) signals, specifically Event-Related Potentials (ERP), were employed to analyze and detect operators’ trust towards automated UAM, providing insights into cognitive processes related to trust. A two-dimensional convolutional neural network integrated with an attention mechanism (2D-ACNN) was also established to enable the end-to-end detection of trust through EEG signals. The results revealed that our proposed 2D-ACNN outperformed other state-of-the-art methods. This work contributes to enhancing the trustworthiness and popularity of UAM automation, which is essential for the widespread adoption and advances in the UAM domain.
Optimal Sizing of Fuel Cell and Battery in a Direct-Hybrid for Electric Aircraft
Authors: Graf Tobias , Fonk Robin , Bauer Christiane , Kallo Josef , Willich Caroline
Published: February 2024

The climate impact of aviation can be reduced using powertrains based on hydrogen fuel cells and batteries. Combining both technologies in a direct-hybrid without a DC/DC converter is a promising approach for light-weight systems. Depending on the power demand, both the fuel cell and battery are used to provide power or only the fuel cell is connected to the powertrain. The system voltage in a direct-hybrid is determined by the fuel cell and battery, but the performance of fuel cells is affected by low-ambient pressure at high altitudes and the battery voltage is affected by state of charge and discharge rate. Taking this into account, the presented work demonstrates how a direct-hybrid system must be designed based on a scaled mission profile of a 40-seater aircraft. The fuel cell and battery are configured and sized according to the power demand in different flight phases while considering voltage limits given by the powertrain. The energy requirement from the fuel cell and the battery is calculated for a flight based on a realistic mission profile and different battery and fuel cell configurations are evaluated. By optimizing the battery and fuel cell size, the energy required from the battery was reduced by 57% and the total weight of the fuel cell and battery was reduced by 11%.
Phenotypic Diversity of Quinoa Landraces Cultivated in the Ecuadorian Andean Region: In Situ Conservation and Detection of Promising Accessions for Breeding Programs
Authors: Delgado Hipatia , Tapia César , Manjarres-Hernández Elsa Helena , Borja Edwin , Naranjo Edwin , Martín Juan Pedro
Published: February 2024

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is an ancestral crop in the Ecuadorian Andean region, and its landraces have always been of great social and food importance for the native population. Currently, there is no updated information about their phenotypic diversity and conservation status nor about the changes that have occurred in the last decades. A total of 268 accessions of quinoa landraces collected at two different times (1978–1988 and 2014–2015) in three representative Ecuadorian Andean provinces (Imbabura, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo) were evaluated for forty agro-morphological (17 quantitative and 23 qualitative) traits. Most of the quantitative traits showed high variability, some of them with great importance for commercialization and germplasm selection for breeding programs (e.g., panicle width, grain width, 1000-grain weight or seed yield per plant). Ten quantitative and eleven qualitative descriptors were significantly different between both collections. Regarding the presence/absence of saponin, all the accessions collected four decades ago had saponin, while it was found in only 18% of accessions collected more recently. The phenotypic relationships in the dendrogram did not show clustered accessions by their geographical origin or by collection. A selection index allowed us to detect a few accessions recently collected in Chimborazo with high promises for future breeding programs, with high seed yields per plant values and a reduced or no saponin content. The agro-morphological information obtained may be very useful for the suitable management and conservation of this ancestral plant genetic resource, both on the farm by indigenous farming communities and ex situ by the Germplasm Bank of the Ecuadorian National Institute for Agricultural Research (INIAP).
Mechanism and Measurement of the Effects of Industrial Agglomeration on Agricultural Economic Resilience
Authors: Yao Ruikuan , Ma Zhisheng , Wu Haitao , Xie Yifeng
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the potential of agricultural industrial agglomeration to bolster agricultural economic resilience and identifies the underlying pathways. We developed an analytical framework for agricultural economics that integrates the concept of “resilience”. This framework facilitates an examination of the influence of agricultural industrial agglomeration on agricultural economic resilience, focusing on two key aspects: enhancement of income and reduction of costs. Utilizing panel data from 30 provincial-level regions in China covering the period from 2006 to 2021, this research empirically assesses the impact, underlying mechanisms, and regional variations of agricultural industrial agglomeration on agricultural economic resilience. The findings reveal that agricultural industrial agglomeration significantly boosts agricultural economic resilience. This positive influence manifests through two primary channels: firstly, “agricultural industrial agglomeration → enhancement of socialized services → agricultural economic resilience” and secondly, “agricultural industrial agglomeration → improvement of agricultural production efficiency → agricultural economic resilience”. The contribution of agricultural industrial agglomeration to agricultural economic resilience is particularly pronounced in major grain-producing regions, notably enhancing capabilities for reconstruction and reinvention, as well as adjustment and adaptation. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at strengthening agricultural economic resilience. These recommendations emphasize the critical role of agricultural industrial agglomeration in fostering agricultural economic resilience, its contribution to the growth of rural economies and the enhancement of socialized services, and the need to consider regional disparities in the process of developing agricultural economic resilience.
Mapping Paddy Rice in Rice–Wetland Coexistence Zone by Integrating Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 Data
Authors: Huang Duan , Xu Lijie , Zou Shilin , Liu Bo , Li Hengkai , Pu Luoman , Chi Hong
Published: February 2024

Accurate mapping of vegetation in the coexisting area of paddy fields and wetlands plays a key role in the sustainable development of agriculture and ecology, which is critical for national food security and ecosystem balance. The phenology-based rice mapping algorithm uses unique flooding stages of paddy rice, and it has been widely used for rice mapping. However, wetlands with similar flooding signatures make rice extraction in rice–wetland coexistence challenging. In this study, we analyzed phenology differences between rice and wetlands based on the Sentinel-1/2 data and used the random forest algorithm to map vegetation in the Poyang Lake Basin, which is a typical rice–wetland coexistence zone in the south of China. The rice maps were validated with reference data, and the highest overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient was 0.94 and 0.93, respectively. First, monthly median composited and J-M distance methods were used to analyze radar and spectral data in key phenological periods, and it was found that the combination of the two approaches can effectively improve the confused signal between paddy rice and wetlands. Second, the VV and VH polarization characteristics of Sentinel-1 data enable better identification of wetlands and rice. Third, from 2018 to 2022, paddy rice in the Poyang Lake Basin showed the characteristics of planting structure around the Poyang Lake and its tributaries. The mudflats were mostly found in the middle and northeast of Poyang Lake, and the wetland vegetation was found surrounding the mudflats, forming a nibbling shape from the lake’s periphery to its center. Our study demonstrates the potential of mapping paddy rice in the rice–wetland coexistence zone using the combination of Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 imagery, which would be beneficial for balancing the changes between paddy rice and wetlands and improving the vulnerability of the local ecological environment.
The Efficient Extraction of β-Carotene from Sea Buckthorn Berries Using a Novel Solvent, Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters, and a Combination of Ultrasound and Microwave
Authors: Staicu Vasile , Calinescu Ioan , Vinatoru Mircea , Ghimpeteanu Daniela , Popa Ioana , Mason Timothy J.
Published: February 2024

The move towards environmentally friendly processing has been a driving force for research into green methods for the extraction of bioactive compounds from plant materials. In this study, a green and efficient process for the extraction of β-carotene from sea buckthorn berries through the simultaneous use of ultrasound and microwave, using a novel green solvent, fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEE), is described. For the same extraction time (45 min), the β-carotene content in the extract was significantly increased (according to ANOVA analysis—p < 0.05) by the simultaneous use of ultrasound and microwave, compared with the separate use of these technologies—an increase of 15 and 89% compared with ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), respectively. The resulting extract can be used directly, without further purification, as a food supplement because the solvent itself is safe for consumption. Furthermore, FAEE contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which add to the health benefits of the extract. When β-carotene is extracted from the plant matrix, it is subjected to degradation due to oxidation, but the addition of the antioxidant vitamin E (13 mg/mL of extract) to the extract extends its stability to more than 90 days at room temperature even when exposed to light. The addition of vitamin E also enhances the health benefits of the extract.
Gradual Emergence of East African cassava mosaic Cameroon virus in Cassava Farms in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Kouakou Bekanvié S. M. , Yoboué Aya Ange Naté , Pita Justin S. , Mutuku J. Musembi , Otron Daniel H. , Kouassi Nazaire K. , Kouassi Kan Modeste , Vanié-Léabo Linda Patricia L. , Ndougonna Cyrielle , Zouzou Michel , Sorho Fatogoma
Published: February 2024

Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) and cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) are endemic threats to cassava production, causing significant yield losses. They are caused respectively by begomoviruses and ipomoviruses that are transmitted by whiteflies and infected cuttings. This study aimed to monitor and characterize viruses responsible for these diseases in order to fill existing gaps in understanding their epidemiology in Côte d’Ivoire. Field surveys were conducted in 2016, 2017, and 2020, and no CBSD symptoms were observed. However, an increase in CMD incidence was noted from 45.95% in 2016 to 51.37% in 2020, while CMD severity remained moderate over the years with a mean value of 2.29. The number of whiteflies was relatively low and decreased over the years. Molecular diagnostics carried out on cassava leaf samples allowed the detection of East African cassava mosaic Cameroon virus (EACMCMV) that occurs in single as well as in mixed infection with African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV). Single EACMCMV infection, which was detected only in three agroecological zones of eastern Côte d’Ivoire in 2016, spread throughout the country in 2017 and became more widespread in 2020 with a preponderance in central and southern zones, whereas ACMV and EACMCMV coinfection has spread to the entire zones. Phylogenetic analysis of the viral isolates showed that they are closely related to those from Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Nigeria. This changing population of cassava virus species constitutes a serious threat to cassava cultivation. Understanding the evolutionary dynamics of these viruses could help in adopting better disease management strategies to control the disease.
INSL3 Variation in Dogs Following Suppression and Recovery of the HPG Axis
Authors: Anand-Ivell Ravinder , Coutinho Acacia Rebello , Dai Yanzhenzi , England Gary , Goericke-Pesch Sandra , Ivell Richard
Published: February 2024

Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a constitutive product of mature, adult-type Leydig cells of the testes and consequently in most mammals is an ideal biomarker with which to monitor pubertal development. A new heterologous time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay was developed and validated to measure circulating INSL3 in the blood of adult male dogs. Compared to other species, INSL3 concentration is low with marked variation between individuals, which appears to be independent of breed, age, or weight. A model system was then used in which a cohort of beagle dogs was subject to a GnRH-agonist implant to suppress the HPG axis and spermatogenesis, followed by implant removal and recovery. Unlike testosterone, INSL3 levels were not fully suppressed in all animals by the GnRH agonist, nor was the recovery of Leydig cell function following implant removal uniform or complete, even after several weeks. In dogs, and dissimilar from other species (including humans), Leydig-cell INSL3 appears to be quite variable between individual dogs and only weakly connected to the physiology of the HPG axis after its suppression by a GnRH-agonist implant and recovery. Consequently, INSL3 may be less useful in this species for the assessment of testis function.
Long-Term Survival in 241 Cases of Intussusception in Cattle and Factors Associated with Mortality
Authors: Chantillon Laurens , Pas Mathilde Laetitia , Vlaminck Lieven , Pardon Bart
Published: February 2024

Intussusception is a frequent cause of mechanical ileus in cattle. Long-term survival has never been described and risk factors for mortality are scarcely documented. A retrospective cohort study on 241 cattle was conducted to determine survival of intussusception and identify risk factors for mortality. Clinical records were matched with the national cattle identification database. Information on possible predictors including clinical examination, ultrasonography, blood-gas analysis and surgery were collected. Survival analysis and decision tree analysis were used. Overall survival was 44.8% until discharge. Of all animals, 39.0% could complete their life cycle and were eligible for slaughter. Male animals and cattle < 226 days old experienced a significantly higher mortality risk (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–3.0 and HR = 2.4; 95% CI = 1.7–3.4, respectively). The final model consisted of heart rate (>95 beats per minute) and packed cell volume (<36.5%) with sensitivity and specificity of 60.4% and 49.4%, respectively. A second model consisted of sex (male) and time to referral (>4.5 days) with sensitivity and specificity of 88.0% and 65.6%, respectively. The long-term prognosis for intussusception in cattle appears to be fair. Factors identified in this study may aid in the decision-making process in cases with presumed intussusception to perform the surgery or opt for euthanasia.
What Is the Cost of Weight Loss? An Approach to Commercial (Dry and Wet) and Homemade Diets
Authors: Vendramini Thiago Henrique Annibale , Macedo Henrique Tobaro , Amaral Andressa Rodrigues , Zafalon Rafael Vessecchi Amorim , Carmo Adrielly Aparecida do , Cesar Cinthia Gonçalves Lenz , Marchi Pedro Henrique , Balieiro Júlio Cesar de Carvalho , Brunetto Marcio Antonio
Published: February 2024

In the context of the rising prevalence of obesity among pets, this study aimed to assess the economic aspects of weight reduction protocols for dogs and cats, considering the lack of information and the varying costs of commercial and homemade diets. The results indicated an average weekly weight loss rate of 1.02% for dogs and 0.92% for cats, with a reduction in body fat mass (p < 0.005). The cost analysis included an evaluation of both dry and wet commercial prescription diets as well as homemade diets. The results unveiled higher expenses associated to wet commercial diets, followed by homemade and dry commercial diets (p < 0.001). The study demonstrated that despite the initial investment, the long-term benefits of weight loss, including improved health and reduced financial burdens for owners, justify the expenses incurred. This comprehensive analysis provides veterinarians and pet owners with valuable insights into the economic considerations of weight reduction protocols, facilitating informed decision making and promoting pet well-being.
Updating the Classification of Chronic Inflammatory Enteropathies in Dogs
Authors: Dupouy-Manescau Noémie , Méric Tristan , Sénécat Odile , Drut Amandine , Valentin Suzy , Leal Rodolfo Oliveira , Hernandez Juan
Published: February 2024

Chronic inflammatory enteropathies (CIEs) in dogs are currently classified based on response to sequential treatment trials into food-responsive (FREs); antibiotic-responsive (AREs); immunosuppressant-responsive (IREs); and non-responsive enteropathies (NREs). Recent studies have reported that a proportion of NRE dogs ultimately respond to further dietary trials and are subsequently misclassified. The FRE subset among CIEs is therefore probably underestimated. Moreover, alterations in the gut microbiota composition and function (dysbiosis) have been shown to be involved in CIE pathogenesis in recent research on dogs. Metronidazole and other antibiotics that have been used for decades for dogs with AREs have been demonstrated to result in increased antimicrobial resistance and deleterious effects on the gut microbiota. As a consequence, the clinical approach to CIEs has evolved in recent years toward the gradual abandonment of the use of antibiotics and their replacement by other treatments with the aim of restoring a diverse and functional gut microbiota. We propose here to refine the classification of canine CIEs by replacing the AREs category with a microbiota-related modulation-responsive enteropathies (MrMREs) category.
Fertility and Insemination Characteristics of Sperm Storage Tubules in Old Thai-Native Hens
Authors: Kheawkanha Theerapat , Chankitisakul Vibuntita , Pimprasert Maruay , Boonkum Wuttigrai , Vongpralub Thevin
Published: February 2024

We aimed to evaluate the effects of sperm concentration (150–250 × 106 spz/dose) and insemination frequency (once, twice, and thrice weekly) on fertility and sperm storage tubule (SST) characteristics. The SSTs were classified into five categories: namely, SSTs having an unscorable (SST1), empty (SST2), low (SST3), medium (SST4), and high (SST5) sperm count after insemination. The results showed that only insemination frequency affected the fertility rate (p < 0.05). The highest fertility was found in the thrice-weekly insemination group; however, this rate was not significantly different from that for the twice-weekly insemination group, except on day 7, while the once-weekly insemination group showed the lowest fertility rate (p < 0.05) from day four onward. On day 1, the SST characteristics showed no differences among the various insemination frequencies. On day 4, the SST2 and SST3 categories increased in the once-weekly insemination group (p < 0.05), while the SST4 and SST5 categories decreased compared to the twice- and thrice-weekly insemination groups (p < 0.05). On day 7, only the thrice-weekly insemination group maintained a level of SST5 category tubules like that measured on day 1 (p > 0.05). In summary, the insemination dose of 150 × 106 sperm was enough for fertilization, and thrice-weekly insemination was the appropriate frequency in old Thai native hens for maintaining a high sperm density in the SSTs throughout the week.
Advances in the Clinical Diagnostics to Equine Back Pain: A Review of Imaging and Functional Modalities
Authors: Domańska-Kruppa Natalia , Wierzbicka Małgorzata , Stefanik Elżbieta
Published: February 2024

Back pain is common in ridden horses. Back diseases in horses include Impinging Dorsal Spinous Processes, Ventral Spondylosis, Osteoarthritis of Articular Process, Intervertebral Discs Disease, Vertebral Fractures, Conformational Abnormalities, Desmopathy of the Supraspinous Ligament, Desmopathy of the Intraspinous Ligament, and Longissimus Muscle Strain. Back pain may also develop as a result of lameness (particularly hindlimb lameness). A poorly fitting saddle and an unbalanced rider are also considered important factors influencing the development of back pain in horses. The conventional diagnosis of equine back pain includes a clinical examination and diagnostic imaging examination using ultrasound, radiography, and thermography. Advanced diagnostic modalities of equine back pain involve the objectification of standard procedures through the use of algometers, a lameness locator, biometric mats, and the geometric morphometrics method. In addition to modern diagnostic methods, such as computed tomography and scintigraphy, advances in the diagnosis of equine back pain include the use of electromyography and functional electrical stimulation. The aim of this review article is to familiarize clinicians with the usefulness and capabilities of conventional diagnostic protocols and advanced diagnostic modalities. Although orthopedic examination and traditional diagnostic methods will remain the foundation of the diagnosis of back diseases, modern methods meet the growing expectations towards high-performance horses and allow for deeper diagnostics and objective monitoring of rehabilitation and training progress.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Stranded Loggerhead Sea Turtles on the Croatian Adriatic Coast
Authors: Mihaljević Željko , Naletilić Šimun , Jeremić Jasna , Kilvain Iva , Belaj Tina , Andreanszky Tibor
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the spatiotemporal trends of loggerhead turtles along the Croatian Adriatic coast by using stranding data and post-mortem analyses. Information on 620 loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), collected in the period between 2010 and 2022, has been analysed. Seasonal stranding variations reveal distinct patterns, indicating season-specific abundance and age-specific mortality in different areas, particularly in the key neritic habitat of the northern Adriatic. The analysis identifies four critical areas in the northeast and central Adriatic showing high stranding densities and provides regional managers with a tool with which to effectively conserve and manage this species. Fishing-induced mortality, collision with vessels, and potential cold stunning are identified as major threats to loggerhead turtles. Post-mortem investigations reveal that longline fishing gear and collisions with vessels are significant age-specific mortality contributors, underscoring the need for targeted conservation efforts in high-risk areas. The study acknowledges potential biases in strandings records but highlights the importance of post-mortem investigations in understanding mortality causes. The findings provide valuable insights for improving conservation strategies, emphasizing the importance of focused surveillance and conservation efforts in identified high-risk locations to mitigate human–turtle interactions.
Guidance on Minimum Standards for Canine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Adolescent Mental Health: Delphi Expert Consensus on Health, Safety, and Canine Welfare
Authors: Jones Melanie G. , Filia Kate , Rice Simon M. , Cotton Sue M.
Published: February 2024

As interest in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and canine-assisted psychotherapy (CAP) grows, there are increasing calls for the management of related health, safety, and welfare concerns for canines, providers, and clients. Existing health and safety guidelines lack empirical support and are, at times, contradictory. Welfare is increasingly prioritized; however, tools to monitor and manage welfare are underutilized and under-reported. The aim of this study was to provide expert consensus on the minimum health, safety, and welfare standards required to develop and deliver a CAP group program to adolescents experiencing common mental health disorders. Diverse AAT experts were recruited globally. Using Delphi methodology, over two rounds, 40 panelists reached a consensus agreement to include 32 items from a possible 49 into the minimum standards. Health and safety measures included risk assessment, veterinary screening, preventative medicine, training in infection control, and first aid. Welfare measures included training in welfare assessment, documentation of welfare, and flexible, individualized responses to promote wellbeing. Intestinal screening for parasites and the prohibition of raw food were not supported. Flexible and individualized assessment and management of canine welfare were supported over fixed and time-limited work schedules. Clinical practice implications are discussed, and recommendations are made.
A Comparison of a Step Load Unilateral and Bilateral Resistance Training Program on the Strength and Power of the Lower Limbs in Soccer Players
Authors: Drozd Miłosz , Kędra Natalia , Motowidło Joanna , Ficek Krzysztof , Bichowska-Pawęska Marta , Zając Adam
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the investigation was to determine the influence of a four-week unilateral (UNI) and bilateral (BIL) resistance training program on peak torque and peak power of the lower limbs in soccer players. Background: We evaluated the effects of a 3:1 step load training program using UNI and BIL forms of exercises on the level of peak torque and peak power of the knee joint extensors and flexors. Methods: The study included 16 division I soccer players having the highest number of matches played in the first round of the season. The motor tests included isokinetic evaluation of peak torque and peak power of the extensors and flexors of the knee joint. Results: The results showed that both types of training sessions were equally effective. Only in terms of power during knee flexion, unilateral training contributed to improvement, whereas bilateral training did not. Conclusions: The use of periodization using a step load progression based on an extended eccentric phase of the movement during the preseason period in combination with UNI training may increase peak torque and peak power of knee flexors and extensors in soccer players.