bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Waterfront developments and engineered canals in the UAE
Authors: Amrousi Mohamed El , Elhakeem Mohamed , Paleologos Evan
Published: April 2024

Engineered canals and waterfront developments as a means to revitalize aging riverfront and coastal areas, dominated until the mid-thirties by industrial buildings and warehouses, have been at the forefront of many American and European cities. Urban revitalization is accomplished after prolonged public participation and has succeeded to transform abandoned areas to healthy public spaces, renovating old warehouses and industrial buildings to apartments with water views, and keeping alive the historical memory of a city. In contrast, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), most of these waterfront developments, such as Al-Qana, a recent project in Abu Dhabi promote forms of modern, spectacular architecture that project a sense of departure from tradition, local culture and architecture. This is also visible in the area around the Dubai canal, which has opted for a modern development on its banks, replacing parts of an existing open park. A project that diverges from such an approach is the two-decades old waterfront project in the city of Sharjah, UAE. Al-Qasba in Sharjah aimed for a more balanced approach, intertwining new architectural forms with hybridized Islamic ornaments. The current article analyzes these three UAE waterfront development projects, focusing on the one in Abu Dhabi. In order to assess the water quality in these engineered canals on the long term we created simulation waterflow models using 2D Finite Element Surface Water Modelling System (FESWMS). Our hydrodynamic modeling results indicate that water velocities in some canals was better than others. Furthermore, on the long-term Al-Qana may require mechanical means in order to maintain healthy waterflow conditions.
Exploration of the linear and nonlinear relationships between learning strategies and mathematics achievement in South Korea using the nominal response model : PISA 2012
Authors: Kim Jiyoun , Chen Chia-Wen , Wu Yi-Jhen
Published: April 2024

Learning strategies have been recognized as important predictors of mathematical achievement. In recent studies, it has been found that Asian students use combined learning strategies, primarily including metacognitive strategies, rather than rote memorization. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is only one prior study including South Korea in investigations of the relationship between learning strategies and mathematics achievement in PISA 2012. In that study, students were classified into groups using specific learning strategies, and their mathematics achievements were compared. There are two research gaps: (1) previous studies insufficiently explored how students use learning strategies in the South Korean education system, and (2) there is little research applying the nominal response model (NRM) to explore the association between learning strategy use and mathematics achievement in PISA 2012. Thus, the present study explores to what extent the NRM fits the data compared to the generalized partial credit model (GPCM). We created a learning strategy score from the NRM for South Korean students in PISA 2012 (N = 3,310). Then, using correlation analysis and quadratic regression analysis, we identified linear and nonlinear relations between learning strategy scores from the NRM and mathematics achievement. The findings indicated that (1) NRM was a better fit for creating learning strategy scores than GPCM, (2) the average correlation coefficient between the learning strategy score and mathematics achievement was 0.18 (p < .05), and (3) for the curvilinear relationship between the learning strategy score and mathematics achievement, the standardized quadratic coefficient was − 0.090 (p < .001). Overall, the NRM represents an appropriate model for explaining the relationship between learning strategy and mathematical achievement. Additionally, high-performing South Korean students tend to primarily use metacognitive strategies with memorization. The negative quadratic coefficient captured the limited effect of the primary use of metacognitive strategies with memorization. The implications for the South Korean education system are discussed.
Nontraditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients on peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Nitta Kosaku
Published: April 2024

Patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) have a high prevalence of cardiovascular complications and are at increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. Dialysis increases the likelihood of developing various cardiovascular complications, including ischemic heart disease, cardiac valvular disease, hypertensive cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmias. However, noncardiac circulatory failure can also occur in the absence of obvious cardiac disease in PD patients as a result of excessive fluid volume. Other important causes of nontraditional circulatory failure in these patients include mineral imbalance and severe anemia. In this review, I focus on nontraditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease in PD patients, including ultrafiltration failure, chronic kidney disease–mineral bone disorders, anemia, inflammation, and sarcopenia.
Safe Motherhood Initiative
Authors: Ajayi-Lowo Esther Oluwashina
Published: April 2024

In the quest to create global maternal health care protocols, African Indigenous birthing epistemologies are often overlooked in research, policy, and advocacy aiming to improve maternal health and reduce the maternal mortality ratio (MMR). The global maternal health strategy, the Safe Motherhood Initiative (SMI), excludes Indigenous birthing knowledge by requiring all childbirth to be attended by only birth attendants trained in the Western medical paradigm. This forms the bedrock of the assumed authoritative expertise of the Western medical birthing approach. Despite the campaign for sole reliance on SMI, Africa’s MMR remains the highest compared to other regions. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, also has the third-highest MMR in the world as of 2020. This failure of SMI to reduce MMR for Nigeria and Africa more broadly calls for the inclusion of marginalized Indigenous birthing knowledge for its epistemological and practical significance. Using Nigeria as a case study, with a transnational connection with the United States, the article argues that excluding African birthing knowledge and methods in SMI promotes epistemic and obstetric violence. Adopting the reproductive justice framework as a decolonial tool, the article asserts that African Indigenous birthing knowledge is simultaneously valid and valuable for holistic approaches to maternal health.
The “Grandmother” of Indigenous Filmmaking in New Zealand
Authors: Schallenkammer Denise
Published: April 2024

With reference to Heperi Mita’s documentary Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen (2018) about his mother, Merata Mita, this article illustrates the importance of Indigenous filmmaking by providing insights into the work and life of New Zealand’s first female Māori filmmaker who made a feature-length narrative. Film is an important part of identity formation and shapes the perception of (Indigenous) cultures and peoples. From the late 1970s onward, there is a growing movement in Māori filmmaking which led to changes in the representation of Māori culture in film and influenced Indigenous filmmaking on a global scale. Merata Mita plays a major role in bringing Māori behind and in front of the camera and paved the way for Indigenous female filmmakers.
What It Takes to Be Counted
Authors: Hembrom Ruby , Narayan Priti
Published: April 2024

In this interview, the publisher and author Ruby Hembrom speaks about being invisibilized and erased as an Adivasi, which led her to set up adivaani (“the first voices”), the first Indigenous-run platform for publishing and documenting Adivasi voices in English in India, in 2012. With a focus on both the ideological and practical aspects of running what Hembrom calls a “dependie” initiative, this interview explores adivaani’s—and Hembrom’s—journey in creating an Indigenous archive; the politics of knowledge production, language, and translation; and the platform’s role in landscapes marked by the cultural and material dispossession of Adivasis in India. Hembrom also provides insight into some of her publishing choices, the global platforms and collaborations she and adivaani have been part of, and her visions for Adivasi feminism and solidarities.
Injury and Value
Authors: Ashby Halle-Mackenzie , Johnson Jessica Marie
Published: April 2024

This essay explores two historical subjects, Catharina, an enslaved woman living and working in eighteenth-century New Orleans, and Ruth, a free field laborer in post-emancipation Barbados. Through a careful reading of their different but overlapping legal petitions against the planters who worked to control their labor, this essay seeks to distill a shared battle around Black mothering and to reconsider what it means to mother in the eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Atlantic world, respectively. In so doing, this essay contributes to scholarship that analyzes reproductive racial slavery’s afterlife, particularly how slavery’s matrilineal principle shaped the meaning of Black motherhood in bondage and in freedom. Exploring violent confrontations with empire in moments of profound change, the stories of Catharina and Ruth each offer new definitions of labor and value and hint at how Black women theorized a world beyond racial capitalism.
My Debt to Slavery
Authors: Solinger Rickie
Published: April 2024

This autobiographical essay sets up a white middle-class young woman’s emergence as a rights-bearing, choice-making exemplar of sexual freedom and as a holder of intimate racial capital in the 1970s. At the same time, elites and various professional authorities were re-stamping this young woman’s Black peers with slavery- and Jim Crow–era tropes, as sexual criminals, bad choice-makers, producers of worthless and expensive children, not citizens. The essay considers the roles played by Roe v. Wade, the availability of contraception, “modern” midwifery services, the “sexual revolution,” welfare policy, public rhetoric, and public policies in locking in new iterations of racism and racial difference in the post–civil rights era, and the importance of female sexuality, pregnancy, and maternity in constructing arenas for deploying these developments.
Perceived Stress, Mindfulness, and Clinical Concussion Outcomes in Adults with a Concussion History
Authors: Callahan Christine E. , Kiefer Adam W. , DeFreese J.D. , Faurot Keturah R. , Gaylord Susan A. , Register-Mihalik Johna K.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Higher perceived stress negatively impacts concussion recovery, but there are limited data examining connections between perceived stress and concussion. Additionally, higher mindfulness is associated with lower perceived stress, but there is limited research on how mindfulness impacts concussion outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the associations among perceived stress, mindfulness, and clinical concussion outcomes.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, observational study in 80 young adults with a concussion history. Participants completed a single study visit measuring the following: 1) demographics, concussion history, and current mindfulness practice; 2) perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale); 3) mindfulness (Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire); and 4) clinical concussion outcomes/symptoms (Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire), balance performance (Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) and center of mass), autonomic nervous system function (heart rate variability), vestibular/ocular function (vestibular ocular motor screening), and exertion tolerance (step test). Separate multivariable linear regression models were used to determine the associations among 1) perceived stress and clinical concussion outcomes and 2) mindfulness and clinical concussion outcomes. Next, a perceived stress and mindfulness interaction term was included to test the potential moderation effect of mindfulness on clinical concussion outcomes.

Results

Higher perceived stress was significantly associated with higher concussion symptom severity (P < 0.001) and higher number of concussion symptoms reported as worse than before injury (P < 0.001). Higher mindfulness was associated with lower concussion symptom severity (P < 0.001), and fewer concussion symptoms reported as worse than before injury (P = 0.002). There were no clinically significant models where the interaction effect was also significant, but the BESS parameter estimate did show statistical significance in the interaction model.

Conclusions

Our results provide a novel understanding of the association among perceived stress, mindfulness, and clinical concussion outcomes. These data are necessary to inform mechanistic concussion rehabilitation interventions.
Molecular Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance of Vibrio Species Isolated from Fish in Egypt
Authors: Gobarah DEA , Helmy SM , Mahfouz NB , Fahmy HA , Abou Zeid MAM , Moustafa EM
Published: April 2024

Vibrio sp. are the most widely recognized and serious pathogen in fish and shellfish marine aquaculture around the world generated disease, not only to fish but also to human causing gastroenteritis. Vibriosis is a common disease caused by a number of Vibrio spp.; V. harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, V. alginolyticus, V. anguillarum, V. vulnificus etc. Vibrio sp. are Gram negative, straight or curved short rods, non-sporulating, non-capsulated, arranged singly or in chains, motile, oxidase positive, catalase positive, citrate positive, string test positive, indol positive, urease negative, H2S negative. The current study was conducted to spot light on identification, molecular characterization and antimicrobial resistance of Vibrio sp. isolated from fish in Egypt and to detect the presence of some of β- lactams resistance genes and class 1 integron. About 52 Vibrio isolates were isolated from 150 fish (75 Oreochromus niloticus, 50 Mugil cephalus, 25 Clarias gariepinus) in Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate in Egypt. Twenty isolates of Vibrio species were tested against 11 antimicrobials for antimicrobial resistance. All the isolates were highly sensitive (100%) to ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin. V. alginolyticus showed high resistance to Ampicillin and intermediate resistance to streptomycin, cefotaxime and erythromycin. V. cholerae showed high resistance to Ampicillin and intermediate resistance to erythromycin. V. parahaemolyticus showed high resistance to gentamycin and intermediate resistance to Ampicillin. V. fluvialis showed high and intermediate resistance to Ampicillin. V. splendidus showed high resistance to Ampicillin and intermediate resistance to streptomycin and cefotaxime. Five isolates showing multidrug resistance were tested for blaTEM , blaCMY2 ,blaCTX genes and class 1 integron. The genes blaTEM was detected in 100% of the isolates, while blaCMY2 and blaCTX genes were detected in 0% of the isolates. Class 1 integron was detected with a percentage of (100%) in the 5 examined isolates. A class 1 integrons bearing streptomycin/ spectinomycin resistant gene cassette of aadA2 were discovered on V. parahaemolyticus isolate. As there is a little reports about antibiotic resistance in Vibrio, this study highlight on the incidence of some of β-lactams resistance genes and class 1 integrons in Vibrio species.
The pathogenicity and immunogenicity of Pasteurella multocida in low and rich iron media
Authors: Hosseini E , Tahamtan Y , Molaee H
Published: April 2024

Pasteurella multocida has the highest prevalence among animal populations and may cause hemorrhagic septicemia in cattle and pneumonia in sheep and goats. It has known that the pathogenicity of this organism depends on the levels of iron. Present study attempts to evaluate any changes in blood parameters and visceral organs of mice by cultivation of P.multocida under iron sufficient and insufficient conditions. P.multocida was cultured on three media: BHI alone, supplemented with bipyridyl and iron. They injected into the mice by intra-peritoneal rout. At the same time inactivated antigens were prepared from all medium and mice were immunized two weeks apart and blood samples were collected until weeks 9. Visceral organs were collected from dead mice for pathological studies. In contrast to immunogenicity and antibody titers, there are significant differences in pathogenicity and blood parameters in rich and limit iron condition.
Physiological and Blood Response in Goat Kids Disbudding by Subcutaneous Injection of Eugenol and Cautery
Authors: FarajliAbbasi M , Molaei MM , Sharifi H , Oloumi MM , Behzadi A
Published: April 2024

This study was aimed to compare the pain in five days old goat kids disbudding by eugenol and cautery method. the eugenol is known as a main factor in novel disbudding method named clove oil. In this study, serum cortisol levels, and clinical changes were evaluated to compare disbudding by eugenol and cautery.  A total of 25 Raieni (Cashmere) goat kids aged 5 days old were randomly allocated to 1-5 treatment groups (n=5), To differentiate the pain caused by disbudding with the stress of restraint and blood sampling in the results, the animals in both methods of disbudding were divided into different groups according to the evaluated parameters; groups 1,2 cautery-disbudded(550°C,3-6s), and groups 3-5 SC eugenol(0.1cc) administration- disbudded. The cortisol serum level immediately after disbudding in group 2 was 7.94±0.02 µg/dL, vs. group 4, 6.34±0.03 (mean ± SE), and over time, the values were in favor of the eugenol group, despite being insignificant up to 240 and 480 minutes after defoliation. The respiratory rate in group 3 was 77±1.13 vs. group 1, 108±0.67 (mean ± SE), and pulse rate in group 3 was 239.4±1.13 vs. group 1, 284±1.53; and rectal temperature showed no significant difference among groups 1&3. In group 5, there was no significant difference between before and after cell blood count and blood enzymes analysis, which could be an argument for the lack of effect of eugenol on vital organs. The results showed less stress and pain level in eugenol-disbudded groups compared to cautery-disbudded in goat kids (P≤0.05). Analysis of specific blood serum enzymes represented no side effect on vital organs in eugenol injection. Our data suggest that eugenol may be a suitable alternative to old and outdated or painful routine disbudding methods. The difference in our findings with similar studies can be due to the difference in the methodology of sampling., analysis and measurement accuracy. However, more research with wide aspect on pain reliability, availability, economy, and behavioral is needed to assess whether eugenol can replace other methods.
Microbial and Antibiotic Resistant E. coli Contamination in Retail Eggs Produced by Alternative and Conventional Rearing Methods
Authors: Guran HS , Esen S , Alali W
Published: April 2024

The aims of this study were to determine: i) the presence of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB), total psychrophilic aerobic bacteria (TPAB) coliform, E. coli, Enterobacteriaceae and Salmonella in retail eggs produced in different poultry rearing systems, ii) Enterobacteriaceae species diversity, and iii) antibiotic resistance profile of E. coli isolates. A total of 350 retail eggs produced by four different rearing systems [organic (n= 100), free-range (n= 100), barn (n= 50) and conventional-cage (n=100)] were collected and characterized microbiologically. Out of the 350 eggs tested, the eggshell surface samples were contaminated, with TMAB, TPAB, coliform, E. coli and Enterobacteriaceae at positive percentages of 100%, 100%, 49.1%, 18.6% and 38%, respectively. The positive percentage of coliform, E. coli and Enterobacteriaceae were statistically significant between rearing systems (P<0.05). However, only mean numbers of TMAB were statistically significant between rearing systems (P<0.05). The contamination percent positive crushed eggshell samples, with TMAB, TPAB, coliform, E. coli and Enterobacteriaceae  were 100%, 100%, 50%, 33.7% and 42.5%, respectively. Salmonella was detected from only one Enterobacteriaceae isolate obtained from an organic eggshell pool but not from eggshell surfaces or egg yolks. A total of 35 E. coli isolates were recovered from Enterobacteriaceae isolates. Twelve (34.3%) of them exhibited resistance to least one antibiotic tested. The dominant type of resistance was to ampicillin detected in all 12 E. coli isolates. This study provides valuable baseline data of the occurrence of species diversity of Enterobacteriaceae and antibiotic resistant E. coli in retail eggs produced by alternative or conventional-caged rearing methods which can be used for future risk assessments.
Determination of Hatching Performance, Yolk-Sac Absorption, and Larval Growth Rates in Abant Trout (Salmo trutta abanticus), Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), and their Hybrids
Authors: Sonay FD , Kavuk Z
Published: April 2024

In this study, hatching performance, yolk-sac absorption, and growth rates of Abant trout (Salmo trutta abanticus), brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), and their hybrids were investigated. In this contex, relationships between duration (days) and total larvae length, total larvae wet weight, dry larvae body weight and yolk-sac weights, and larval growth were determined. At the end of the study, eye pigmentation, hatching, and larval survival rates were defined as 99.50%, 97.68%, 98.97% for Abant trout, 87.35%, 68.97%, 71.54% for brook trout, 96.12%, 64.18%, 56.82% for S.t.a. ♀ x S.f. ♂ hybrid and for S.f. ♀ x S.t.a. ♂ hybrid 14.98%, 0.45%, respectively. The results indicated there were significant linear relationships between degree-day and length, total wet weight, dry body weight, and dry yolk-sac weight in Abant trout, brook trout, and their hybrids. This relationship has been demonstrated as decreasing in the yolk-sac and as increasing in others. As a result of crossing, it was observed that the hatching efficiency of hybrid (S.t.a.♀ x S.f.♂) was similar to brook trout, and growth performance was similar to Abant trout. The results will help further studies and will contribute to the management practices of the stocks of Abant trout, brook trout, and their hybrids.
Evaluation of Bursal Index and Bursal Lesion Scores in Broiler Flocks
Authors: Zahedi A , Jamshidi K , Poorghasemi M
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims: The bursa of Fabricius (BF) is recognized as a vital organ that plays a crucial role in birds immunity. In order to determine the immunological status of the birds, this study was conducted to evaluate the bursal index, and bursal lesion scores in broilers.Materials and Methods: Therefore, a total of 200 broilers, 35-45 days of age, from 10 broiler flocks were randomly selected, weighed, then sacrificed. At necropsy, the bursa of Fabricius were obtained, examined, and weighed. Bursal index (BI) was calculated. Representative pieces of tissues from bursa of Fabricius were preserved in 10% neutral buffer formaldehyde for further histopathological evaluation.Results: The results obtained from (BI) calculated during the study period for all 22 broiler farms, revealed that more than 81% of the birds were included in bad group and less than 19% in mediocre group. Degree of microscopic lesions between different groups and even within one group varied from 0 (normal) to 5 (atrophy of BF) and included lymphoid necrosis in follicles, hyperplasia and folding of bursal inner epithelium, and formation of fibrous connective tissue within the follicles. Average bursal lesion scores for all groups under study was recorded as 2.09%.Conclusions: On the basis of all results including (BI) and bursal lesion scores it is concluded that bursal lymphoid structures suffer various degree of pathological lesions indicating suppressed immunity in broiler farms along with poor performance.
Effect of severe dietary restriction on growth and slaughter characteristics of non-selected growing rabbits
Authors: Saidj D , Imelhayen M , Dorbane Z , Talaaziza D , Chirane MS , Korteby HM , Moula N , Kadi SA
Published: April 2024

This work was carry out  to study the effects of dietary restriction by limiting rabbit access to the feeder on fattening performance. A total of 44 weaned rabbits, of 32-35 days, were randomly divided into 2 groups, the control group (C) fed ad-libitum throughout the fattening period and the group with restricted access to the feed restriction (R). The weekly feeding program of the R group consisted of a restricted access time to the feed trough for 5 days (3h/d) and an ad libitum feed distribution for the weekend during the 5 weeks post-weaning. Two weeks before slaughter (10 to 12 weeks of age), the rabbits from the Group R were fed ad libitum. Results showed lower live weights for Group R at 10 weeks of age (R: 1084.7 g vs. C: 1510.7; p<0.05) but similar at 12 weeks of age (R: 1557.2 g vs. C: 1800.9 g; P>0.05). Different daily feed intakes throughout the fattening period and similar average daily gains (R:16.25 g/d vs. C:22.10 g/d; p>0.05). The feed intake index at the end of fattening was significantly higher in control animals (C:4.15 vs. R:3.85, p=0.001). Carcass yield was similar (C: 68.07% vs. R: 65.70%; p>0.05), peri-renal fat weight was higher in control rabbits (C: 27.17g vs. R: 13.67g; p=0.002).The results of the present study indicate the economic interest of using a feed restriction strategy that could be popularized in local rabbit farms.
Molecular identification and sequencing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa 16S rRNA gene isolated from a variety of raw cow milk samplesin Iraq
Authors: Saeed AA , Mayea KQ , Shalal SH
Published: April 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is Gram-negative bacterium which is notably known as a pathogen in humans, animals, and plants.Suspect   raw milk samples were analyzed to amplify the 16S rRNA gene and confirm Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. This study was conducted at different  farmland in diwaniya and al-Najaf., a total of 70 samples were collected   (28 from mastitic cows and 42 from apparently healthy cows ) the detection of the 16S rRNA gene in  this  study revealed 11 (  positive isolates of Pseudomonas were identified from samples after culture on cetrimid agar. New sets of primer pairs were designed using the NCBI database search tool. The phylogenetic relationship between different strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been studied through using 16S rRNA gene region sequencing. A distance tree was constructed to determine the genetic similarity between species. as result of the 9 isolate gene sequencing, it was determined, and submitted in GenBank accession numbers (MZ799357,  MZ817077,  MZ820788,  MZ820878 ,  MZ821016,  MZ823355,  MZ823356  MZ823387.   MZ823389) , in conclusion the PCR is a reliable technique that identifies Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the molecular level
Unilateral Partial Aphalangia and Hemimelia in an Adult Dog and Cat: Clinical Presentation and Radiography Findings
Authors: Abu-Seida AM
Published: April 2024

Congenital digital deformities are uncommon anomalies in dogs and cats and many of them are still not recorded in veterinary literature. This report describes the clinical presentation and radiological findings in a 3-year-old male German shepherd dog with a right pelvic limb partial aphalangia and an 11-year-old female Persian cat with a left thoracic limb partial hemimelia. The dog showed an absence of the fourth digit of right pes with abnormal footpads and a wide interdigital space between the third and fifth digits. Radiography revealed presence of all metatarsals, absence of the middle and distal phalanges of the fourth digit, under development of the proximal phalanx and foot pad of the fourth digit as well as fusion between the foot pads of fourth and fifth digits. The cat had only one digit, two nails and one rudimentary foot pad in the left thoracic limb. The left thoracic limb was shorter than the contralateral limb. Radiography revealed short ulna, presence of three carpal bones, absence of all metacarpals and presence of one digit with three phalanges. No other congenital disorders were noted in both animals. No treatment was offered because the dog and cat were coping well with their defects. In conclusion, dogs and cats with unilateral partial aphalangia and hemimelia can survive into adulthood with a reasonable quality of life, particularly indoor animals. Radiography plays a crucial role in complete description, classification and definite diagnosis of these defects in companion animals.
Nervous coccidiosis in a calf
Authors: Değirmençay Ş , Çomaklı S , Özdemir S , Hanedan B
Published: April 2024

In this case report, a 9-month Swiss brown calf has been reported with neurological symptoms including seizures, opisthotonus, hyperesthesia, nystagmus, convulsions of the head and extremity muscles, watery brown faeces and mild blood in faeces. Eimeria spp. oocyst was found in the parasitological examination of the faeces, and it was suspected of nervous coccidiosis. When the brain tissue was examined, the numerous different forms of Eimeria spp were histopathologically detected in the brain parenchyma and brain capillaries. Eimeria spp which were found in the brain and large intestinal tissues were confirmed as Eimeria zuernii using specific primers with qRT-PCR. This case report emphasizes that Eimeria zuernii is located in the brain tissue of cattle for the first time in the world. We suspect that these agents may travel to the brain through the enteric blood vessels, and all the neurological symptoms detected in this calf may be due to the presence of these agents in the brain tissue. Therefore, this could be crucial knowledge on the pathogenesis of nervous coccidiosis.
Viral analysis of tumor-bearing chicken flocks in Turkey over the last decade (2011-2020)
Authors: Abayli H , Tonbak S , Ozbek R , Karabulut B
Published: April 2024

Marek’s disease virus (MDV), avian leukosis virus (ALV), and reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) are important viral agents associated with neoplastic diseases that cause economic losses for the poultry industry worldwide. Immunosuppressive agents such as infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), REV, and chicken anemia virus (CIAV) expose birds to other infections and reduce production performance. In this context, we aimed to identify and perform molecular analysis of the aforementioned viral infections (ALV, CIAV, IBDV, MDV, and REV) in the tissues of tumor-bearing chickens. Clinical samples were taken from 11 chicken flocks of different ages and races from some provinces (Adıyaman, Diyarbakır, Elazığ and Malatya) in Turkey between 2011 and 2020. MDV positivity was determined in all 11 chicken flocks, while ALV endogenous sequences were determined in two of 11 MDV positive chicken flocks. CIAV and ALV sequences were found together in two of 11 MDV positive chicken flocks. The ALV subgroup J, IBDV, and REV were not detected in any of the chicken flocks. According to phylogenetic analysis, Turkish MDV strains obtained from this study were included in two different genogroups (genogroups I and II) with other MDV strains with pathotypes ranging from virulent (v) to very virulent plus (vv+). Co-infections of ALV and CIAV with MDV may worsen the current clinical situation. In this study, MDV was detected in two flocks vaccinated with HVT. Other chickens were not vaccinated against any of the viral agents studied. Increasing vaccination and preventive measures against these viral pathogens in poultry in Turkey is recommended.
Antibiotic resistant shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli isolates from milk and milk products
Authors: Sobeih AMK , Moawad AA , Sharshar T
Published: April 2024

Totally  450 milk and milk products (50 each of raw buffalo & cow milk; Kareish, Tallaga and Roquefort cheeses; yoghurt; rayeb; condensed milk and sour cream) samples were randomly purchased from various markets in Kafr El-Sheikh for isolation and identification of STEC. Results showed that 60%, 80%, 30%, 10%, 12%, 20%, 6% and 22% of buffalo & cow milk, Kareish, Roquefort, Tallaga, yoghurt, rayeb and sour cream respectively, contained E.coli, but negative in condensed milk. Fifty suspected isolates were serologically identified using E.coli O157:H7 kits, and confirmed in 69.2%, 53.8%, 60%, 16.7% and 20% isolates of buffalo & cow milk, Kareish, Tallaga and yoghurt, while was negative in Roqufort, rayeb, and sour cream. Using PCR assay, 21 confirmed isolates were examined, 44.4, 71.4, 66.7, 100 and 100% isolates of buffalo & cow milk, Kareish, Tallaga and yoghurt were positive for rfbE gene; while 55.6, 42.8, 66.7, 100 and 100 % isolates of buffalo & cow milk, Kareish, Tallaga and yoghurt were positive for blaTEM, but all isolates were negative for blaCMY2. Consequently, raw milk and most dairy products including fermented products were possible source of E.coli O157:H7food poisoning, so usage of accurate hygienic measures through manufacture and retail of milk products be essential.
Mycobacterium genavense splenitis in a pet rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) presented for fracture
Authors: Paoletti C , Rosas-Navarro J. , Godart PO , Quinton JF
Published: April 2024

Mycobacteriosis is an uncommon infection that has been sporadically described among wild, farmed and pet rabbits. To date, only one case of Mycobacterium genavense infection has been reported in a dwarf rabbit presenting with granulomatous pneumonia. This new case report describes granulomatous splenitis caused by M. genavense in a pet rabbit brought in for lameness caused by a femoral fracture. The initial blood test, X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, and bone marrow and spleen cytology results were consistent with a diagnosis of a metastatic giant-cell tumour. The rabbit underwent successful femoral osteosynthesis, and six months later, following the occurrence of a second spontaneous fracture and a worsening of overall health, the patient was euthanised. The postmortem histological examination showed severe granulomatous splenitis caused by acid-fast bacilli identified as M. genavense by real-time PCR analysis. The route of infection remains unknown, yet the lack of pulmonary involvement likely rules out airborne transmission. M. genavense infection, although rarely described in pet rabbits, appears to be an emerging pathogen and should be included among the differential diagnoses for pneumonia and splenomegaly.
Defining priority issues for managing stray dog populations: The case of Greece
Authors: Papavasili TE , Kontogeorgos A , Mayrommati A , Chatzitheodoridis F , Sossidou EN
Published: April 2024

Recent literature on stray dogs offers evidence about their increasing overpopulation. However, very few studies have attempted to investigate and explain the overpopulation of stray dogs in Greece. The aim of this study is to define how different social and professional groups prioritize issues related to management practices and programs that could be adopted at national and regional level. The Delphi method was applied for drawing, experiences, information, knowledge and opinions of fourteen experts serving from different professions and positions the topic of the study in order to demonstrate how the participation and cooperation of all stakeholders will lead to a sustainable management of their population. The process was completed in three rounds of online meetings in which participants were asked to fulfill questionnaires to analyze their choices. It was concluded that stray dogs are overpopulated mainly due to the "irresponsible ownership of the pet dog" which usually leads to its abandonment (most often without neutering), and the uncontrolled reproduction of stray dogs. Also, the lack of interest in adopting stray dogs was a matter of high priority. Finally, neutering strays and pets was demonstrated by the majority of experts as a solution against overpopulation of stray dogs
Molecular identification and sequence analysis of Clostridium perfringens virulence genes isolated from sheep and goats
Authors: Amini M , Kheirkhah B , Shamsaddini Bafti M , Rokhbakhsh Zamin F
Published: April 2024

Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) belongs to the family of Clostridiaceae and produces a wide range of toxins (four major and a variety of minor toxins). Some toxins associated with virulence have been shown to participate in the pathogenesis of enteric diseases in sheep, goats, and other animals. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of minor virulence genes and their genetic diversity in the various toxinotypes of C. perfringens isolates. About 84 isolates collected from sheep and goat flocks were examined and sequenced for the presence of minor virulence genes. Results showed that PFO and cpb2 were found in 79 out of 84 (94%), cpe was identified in 29 out of 84 (35%) and the presence of tpeL was confirmed in 28 out of 84 (33%) isolates, while none of the isolates were identified as carrying the netB gene. This study shows that the prevalence of genes varied among various types of C. perfringens isolates and also sheep and goat samples, furthermore these findings change the toxinotypes of isolates based on a modiﬁed scheme of toxinotype, which incorporated CPE and NetB toxins. The results of this study showed that the dominant minor virulence genes were PFO and cpb2 and the occurrence of cpe and tpeL genes was also diverse. DNA sequencing revealed approximately a sequence similarity of 97-100% with the GenBank database and 3 motation was found in sequence analysis.
Accidental Oleandrum (Nerium Oleander L.) Ingestion: Anatomo-Pathological consequences in livestock species
Authors: Tinelli A , Passantino G , Perillo A , Zizzo N
Published: April 2024

The oleander (Nerium oleander L.) is a flowering and evergreen shrub or small tree, belonging to the Dogbane family, cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens and public city areas. These plants, distributed originally in Asia and Mediterranean area, grow in many parts of the world, particularly in warm temperate and subtropical regions. Oleander is considered noxious weed and its toxicity has been known since ancient times. All parts of plants, including stems, leaves, young shoots, flowers, nectar, sap and products induced by combustion are toxic. The poisoning effects of plant induced sever negative changes especially in the heart, also in the lung, in the liver and in the kidney. Accidental and experimental cases of oleander poisonings have been described in several species. Several cases of accidental ingestion in human and animals have been reported from across the world. Therefore, this review summarizes the main anatomo-pathological effects found in livestock species after accidental oleandrum poisoning.
Canine pododermatitis: A retrospective study of 300 cases
Authors: Bouza- Rapti P , Kaltsogianni F , Koutinas AF , Farmaki R
Published: April 2024

The medical records of 300 dogs with pododermatitis were reviewed and the possible associations between signalment, history, clinical and laboratory findings, and various primary and secondary causative factors were investigated. The age of the dogs ranged from 3 months to 15 years. Mongrels, West Highland White Terriers (WHWTs) , French Bulldogs, German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs) and Shar-Peis were overrepresented. In most of the cases pododermatitis was chronic/recurrent (69%), pruritic (75%) and affected all four feet (54%). The dominant affected site was interdigital skin (66%), whereas erythema (77.7%), hypotrichosis/alopecia (57%), skin thickness (26.3%), crusts (25%) and hyperpigmentation (22%) were the most frequently encountered lesions. Bacteria (109/300), as secondary causes, were more commonly found than Malassezia spp. (43/300). The principal primary causes were allergies (131/300), pododemodicosis (32/300), sarcoptic mange (17/300), skin neoplasms (14/300), leishmaniosis (14/300) and interdigital furunculosis (11/300). In this study, West Highland White Terriers, Shar-Peis and French Bulldogs were predominantly presented with allergic pododermatitis (P=0.001). Interdigital skin was the overrepresented site for atopic dermatitis (117/131) and pododemodicosis (20/32), while metatarsal area was for sarcoptic mange (17/17). Crusts were commonly seen in bacterial pododermatitis (P<0.001), whereas greasy crusts (P<0.001) and lichenification (P=0.008) were seen in Malassezia pododermatitis. Finally, dogs that did not often have paw cleaning had the lowest rates of Malassezia infection (P=0.047).
Effect of oxidative stress on the reproductive performance of Hair Goat
Authors: Dursun S
Published: April 2024

Small ruminants are the type of animals that make the most of unsuitable land and contribute significantly to the country's economy. In order to achieve maximum yield from these animals, it is necessary to optimize nutrition and minimize stress factors. One of the important consequences of management and nutrition has been demonstrated by scientists to be oxidative stress.  Oxidative stress affect the normal functioning of many physiological systems. In this study, oxidative stress index (OSI), total oxidation level (TOS) and total antioxidant (TAS) levels were investigated in 20 male and 100 female hair goats during the breeding season (October) and out-of-season (May). Females between the ages of 2-6 years and male hair goats aged 2-4 years were used in the study. The correlation between TAS, TOS, and OSI and fertility was evaluated according to sex and season.  TAS, TOS and OSI values in female hair goats in October and May were, respectively; 1.28, 1.34; 11.02, 7.13; 0.87, 0.53; in males 1.32, 1.44; 4.24, 8.84; 0.32, 0.63 μmol/L.  As a result, it was concluded that as the TOS level increased, the yield of the offspring decreased, and the increase in the TAS level positively affected the yield of the offspring.
Comparison of synchronisation protocols on pregnancy rate in dairy cows and heifers: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Ambarcioglu P , Mavridis D , Yazlik MO , Vural R , Akcil Ok MM , Gürcan S
Published: April 2024

Estrus synchronisation protocols are used as an essential strategy in the reproductive management of dairy herds, including Ovsynch, Presynch, Selectsynch, Heatsynch, Cosynch, Double-Ovsynch, and some other combinations of these, while the optimal protocol is still uncertain. We performed a network meta-analysis (NMA) to compare the efficacy of the synchronisation protocols in dairy cows and heifers. Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cabi Direct, and The Cochrane Library were searched up to May 13, 2019. The comparison of synchronisation protocols in terms of pregnancy rate was done by combining direct and indirect evidence. Ranking the synchronisation protocols were conducted by using surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA). 48 randomized trials involving 9 different protocols were included. Compared with the control group, none of the synchronisation protocols were more effective in pregnancy rate at first insemination. Presynch+Ovsynch was found to be more efficient than Ovsynch (RR=1.21, 95% CI:1.04-1.40), also Presynch+Ovsynch and Presynch+Heatsynch were superior to Presynch+Selectsynch (RR=2.01, 95% CI: 1.03-3.93 and RR=1.91, 95% CI: 1.21-3.01). In conclusion, presynchronisation strategies such as Presynch+Ovsynch increase the effectiveness of pregnancy rate at first insemination related to other synchronisation protocols. Nevertheless, the non-superiority of the synchronisation protocols against not applying any hormonal treatments should be considered in reproductive management in dairy herds.
Mast Cell and VEGF Profile in Canine Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Ipek V , Kaplan O
Published: April 2024

Canine soft tissue sarcomas are a complex group that is difficult to treat with high invasion and metastasis characteristics. These tumors are divided into a wide variety of subtypes, but due to their general mesenchymal characteristics and morphological similarities, they are under a single group called soft tissue tumors together with benign ones. Tumor microenvironment including mast cells promotes tumor angiogenesis, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, as well as mediating the mechanism of therapeutic resistance. In this study, the presence and relationships of mast cells with VEGF in benign and malignant soft tissue tumors were evaluated. As a result, mast cells showed a significant increase in malignant tumors compared to benign ones. In the VEGF analyzes performed for interpreting of angiogenesis, the immunostaining scores were also higher in malignant tumors. To the authors' knowledge, there is no previous study investigating mast cells and angiogenesis in canine soft tissue tumors. This study revealed that mast cell and VEGF scores are higher in malignant tumors compared to benign ones and can be considered as a prognostic marker. However, any correlation between mast cells and VEGF immune expressions could not be detected.
Reactivity of TNF-α, NF-κB, and TGF-β in Liver Tissue of Rats Due to the Sand Mussel Consumption
Authors: Öztürk Ş , İrkin LC
Published: April 2024

Toxic substances such as heavy metals have been reported to accumulate by aquatic organisms. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the histopathological changes that may occur in the liver parenchyma, the largest gland of the digestive system, by feeding the rats with sand mussel. The samples were analyzed for cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) by ICP-OES). The liver tissue samples were stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E), and immuohitochemically staining inflamatory marker TNF-α, NF-κB, and fibrotic factor TGF-β. Heavy metal accumulation in sand mussel tissue suggests that it may triggers the toxicity in tissues with the consumption frequently that the hepatotoxic effect was quite severe especially in rats fed with sand mussel. Also immunoreactivity of TNF-α, TGF-β and NF-κB were observed in the liver cells of especially second group. As a result, aquatic ecosystem can be affected with environmental pollution. It has been shown that marine based food obtained from polluted areas can trigger the hepatotoxicity.
Dried Baby Formula as a Source of Opportunistic Members of Enterobacteriaceae for Infants
Authors: Ibrahim AS , Fouad Saad M , Moustafa Hafiz N
Published: April 2024

For evaluating the prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae in baby formulas, we examined 60 different samples of powdered infant milk formula and milk-cereal based infant formula that is recommended for first-day birth and from 6-month age, respectively, and collected from various supermarkets, shops, and pharmacies. Six (20.0%) and thirteen (43.3%) powdered infant milk formulas and milk-cereal based infant formulas, respectively, were contaminated by different Enterobacteriaceae involved Enterobacter cloacae ssp. cloacae, Pantoea spp., Enterobacter hormaechei, and Raoultella ornithinolytica, which were identified using traditional biochemical tests and the vitek2 compact system. Only five samples of investigating milk-cereal based infant formula type have coliforms count of 4 MPN/g. All species were susceptible to gentamycin, while all were resistant to cephalothin antibiotics. Eventually, 20.0 % of powdered infant milk formula samples were unacceptable referred to Egyptian standards (2072/2006) and most of the comparable international standards. In the study, we proved the contamination of powdered milk baby formula by Enterobacteriaceae, which mainly causes health problems in immature and immunocompromised infants. The dried infant formula factories are more needful for good hygiene and safety systems applications. This study is one of the fewest studies conducted in Egypt to isolate Enterobacteriaceae members from dried foods; especially milk-cereal based infant formula.