bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multivariate comparison of taxonomic, chemical and operational data from 80 different full-scale anaerobic digester-related systems
Authors: Otto Pascal , Puchol-Royo Roser , Ortega-Legarreta Asier , Tanner Kristie , Tideman Jeroen , de Vries Sjoerd-Jan , Pascual Javier , Porcar Manuel , Latorre-Pérez Adriel , Abendroth Christian
Published: June 2024

Background

The holistic characterization of different microbiomes in anaerobic digestion (AD) systems can contribute to a better understanding of these systems and provide starting points for bioengineering. The present study investigates the microbiome of 80 European full-scale AD systems. Operational, chemical and taxonomic data were thoroughly collected, analysed and correlated to identify the main drivers of AD processes.

Results

The present study describes chemical and operational parameters for a broad spectrum of different AD systems. With this data, Spearman correlation and differential abundance analyses were applied to narrow down the role of the individual microorganisms detected. The authors succeeded in further limiting the number of microorganisms in the core microbiome for a broad range of AD systems. Based on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, MBA03, Proteiniphilum, a member of the family Dethiobacteraceae, the genus Caldicoprobacter and the methanogen Methanosarcina were the most prevalent and abundant organisms identified in all digesters analysed. High ratios for Methanoculleus are often described for agricultural co-digesters. Therefore, it is remarkable that Methanosarcina was surprisingly high in several digesters reaching ratios up to 47.2%. The various statistical analyses revealed that the microorganisms grouped according to different patterns. A purely taxonomic correlation enabled a distinction between an acetoclastic cluster and a hydrogenotrophic one. However, in the multivariate analysis with chemical parameters, the main clusters corresponded to hydrolytic and acidogenic microorganisms, with SAOB bacteria being particularly important in the second group. Including operational parameters resulted in digester-type specific grouping of microbes. Those with separate acidification stood out among the many reactor types due to their unexpected behaviour. Despite maximizing the organic loading rate in the hydrolytic pretreatments, these stages turned into extremely robust methane production units.

Conclusions

From 80 different AD systems, one of the most holistic data sets is provided. A very distinct formation of microbial clusters was discovered, depending on whether taxonomic, chemical or operational parameters were combined. The microorganisms in the individual clusters were strongly dependent on the respective reference parameters.

Graphical Abstract
Influence of voluntary isocapnic hyperpnoea on recovery after high-intensity exercise in elite short-track speedskaters – randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kowalski Tomasz , Wilk Adrian , Rębiś Kinga , Lohse Kim-Morgaine , Sadowska Dorota , Klusiewicz Andrzej
Published: June 2024

Respiratory muscle training plays a significant role in reducing blood lactate concentration (bLa) and attenuating negative physiological stress reactions. Therefore, we investigated if voluntary isocapnic hyperpnoea (VIH) performed after a maximum anaerobic effort influences bLa and perceived fatigue level in well-trained speedskaters. 39 elite short-track speedskaters participated in a trial with two parallel groups: experimental and control. All the participants performed the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT). The experimental group performed a VIH-based recovery protocol 20 min after exercise, the control group used passive recovery only. Blood samples were taken 3 and 30 min after the WAnT to measure bLa. Fatigue was self-appraised on a 0–10 perceived rating-of-fatigue (ROF) scale 3 and 30 min after the WAnT. Noteworthy, but not statistically significant changes between the experimental and control groups were observed for changes in bLa (p = 0.101). However, statistically significant changes between the groups were found for ROF (p = 0.003, ηp2 = 0.211, ω2 = 0.106). Moreover, statistically significant interactions between post-exercise bLa clearance and VO2max (p = 0.028) and inspiratory muscle strength (p = 0.040) were observed. Our findings provided preliminary insight that VIH may be an efficient recovery protocol after anaerobic exercise performed by elite athletes. The association between VO2max and post-exercise bLa clearance indicates the vital role of aerobic fitness in repeated-efforts ability in short-track speedskaters. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT05994092 on 15th August 2023.
Analysis of genetic diversity by the SLAF-seq among the farmed Onychostoma macrolepis populations
Authors: Yang Yuanhao , Han Bang , Wen Sien , Li Fenggang , Shen Hongbao
Published: June 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the genetic diversity within and between farmed populations of Onychostoma macrolepis, and to establish a foundation for enhancing the genetic resources of breeding groups through the introduction of new individuals and crossbreeding. A total of 49 individuals were subjected to sequencing using Specific-Locus Amplified Fragment Sequencing (SLAF-seq), one of the restriction site-associated DNA sequencing technologies. The single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)were identified to conduct the analyzation of phylogeny population structure, principal component and genetic diversity.

Results

A total of 853,067 SNPs were identified. The results of the phylogenetic analysis revealed that each sample was genetically clustered into three distinct groups: ZhenPing (ZP), LanGao parents (LG), and their progeny population (LG-F1). Each population was observed to be clustered together. Analysis of population genetic diversity revealed that the observed heterozygosity (Ho) ranged from 0.200 to 0.230, the expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.280 to 0.282, and the polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0.228 to 0.230. These results indicate that the genetic diversity of the population is low and the signs of long-term interbreeding are obvious, but there are differences between the populations, and the genetic diversity of the population can be improved by hybridization in different regions.
Ovarian endometrioma: a report of a pediatric case diagnosed prior to menstruation
Authors: Takada Lynne , Kawano Takafumi , Yano Keisuke , Iwamoto Yumiko , Ogata Masato , Kedoin Chihiro , Murakami Masakazu , Sugita Koshiro , Onishi Shun , Muto Mitsuru , Kirishima Mari , Tanimoto Akihide , Ieiri Satoshi
Published: June 2024

Background

Ovarian endometriomas (OEs) are rarely found in the pediatric population, especially before menstruation. We report a 6-year-old girl who was postoperatively diagnosed with OE before menstruation.

Case presentation

A 6-year-old girl presented to a local pediatrician with abdominal pain and vomiting. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a multilocular cystic lesion to the left of the bladder. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed similar findings, with the contents of the cyst showing a low signal on T1-weighted imaging and a high signal on T2-weighted imaging. The patient was referred to our institution for further examination. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) showed a multilocular cystic lesion sized 56 × 44 × 30 mm with partial calcification. The left ovarian vein was dilated, suggesting the origin of the tumor to be the left ovary. Extirpation of the lesion was performed under laparoscopic assistance. Pathological findings indicated an ovarian endometrioma. To our knowledge, this is the youngest report of an OE diagnosed in a patient prior to menstruation.

Conclusions

OEs in children before menstruation are extremely rare; thus, the long-term prognosis is yet to be determined.
Households’ preference and willingness to pay for alternative energy sources: a discrete choice experiment
Authors: Afriyie Angela Boakye , Oteng-Abayie Eric Fosu , Frimpong Prince Boakye , Amanor Kofi
Published: June 2024

As consumers play an increasingly active role in the energy market, understanding their preferences for renewable and non-renewable energy is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7. This study employs a labelled discrete choice experiment to investigate consumers' preferences and willingness to pay for solar PV panels, power generators, and biomass, considering service provider, service quality, and purchasing price. The survey was administered to 250 households in Kumasi, Ghana. This study finds that solar PV panels are the most preferred energy source, with the highest willingness to pay estimate. However, in cases where solar panels are not easily accessible, households turn to biomass as an alternative. Although there are similarities in choices, variations in preferences among consumers were identified. Furthermore, consumers value product or service quality but remain indifferent between foreign and domestic service providers. Based on these findings, policymakers are advised to engage in awareness campaigns and provide incentives such as subsidies and low-interest loans, to drive solar PV panel adoption among households. Energy developers should consider customized payment plans based on income levels to facilitate affordability. Additionally, recognizing the heterogeneity in preferences necessitates an inclusive policy approach that considers diverse consumer needs and addresses the energy access challenges faced by low-income households.
Black widow optimization algorithm for efficient task assignment in cloud computing
Authors: Wu Huimin
Published: June 2024

Cloud computing was developed by blending virtualization and grid computing technologies. Its purpose is to provide Internet-based, on-demand, and consumption-based access to pools of computing resources in a measurable, adaptable, and scalable manner. Task scheduling is essential to cloud computing to ensure the performance of cloud services. However, inefficient scheduling can lead to resource issues such as under-allocation and over-allocation, which wastes resources and degrades service performance. Therefore, metaheuristic algorithms are incorporated into task scheduling systems to efficiently and timely distribute complex and diverse incoming tasks to limited resources. This study aims to analyze task priorities and precisely assign them to virtual machines. This is achieved by utilizing the Black Widow Optimization (BWO) algorithm. The primary objectives are to reduce time and energy consumption, improve task success rates, and optimize turnaround efficiency. Ultimately, these improvements aim to enhance the overall trustworthiness of the system.
Evaluating iodine deficiency and goiter in hilly areas of District Poonch Azad Jammu Kashmir
Authors: Khaliq Abdul , Fayaz Mehwish , Hayat Imran , Abbas Muhammad
Published: June 2024

Background & Objectives: Iodine deficiency is considered as a global challenge, even after decades of efforts to solve the issue. Our objective was to assess the iodine deficiency status and associated prevalence of goiter in population groups (school-age children and women) from rural areas of District Poonch, and to assess the determinants of iodine deficiency in the area.
Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted in District Poonch Azad Jammu and Kashmir from 25 April 2022 to 30 June 2023. A total of 150 goiter patients from different villages of the District Poonch was included. Their urinary iodine concentration and goiter prevalence was assessed. Using palpation techniques, a trained and experienced public health officer assessed the presence of goiters based on WHO/ UNICEF/ICCIDD criteria. Descriptive statistics were computed for continuous variables and presented in frequency and percentage, based on the distributional characteristics of the data. chi-square was used to check association between socio-demographic factors and goiter. It was a HEC Project No.: 20-16988/NRPU/R&D/HEC/2021.
Results: Iodine status and associated goiter prevalence was high and 59.3% of them were severely iodine deficient. Within the district, the highest severe iodine deficiency was observed in 81.1% goiter patients of the Rawalakot subdivision, Hajira and Abbaspur subdivisions. Regarding goiter status 40% of the patients were classified with palpable-visible goiter and 56% were characterized with visible but nodular goiter.
Conclusion: Study showed that there was a severe iodine deficiency and associated goiter prevalence in the area. Policymakers should take actions for future to overcome iodine deficiency in future.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8784
How to cite this: Khaliq A, Fayaz M, Hayat I, Abbas M. Evaluating iodine deficiency and goiter in hilly areas of District Poonch Azad Jammu Kashmir. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(7):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8784
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Η επενέργεια της διατροφικής ζώνης και της άθλησης στην ψυχοσωματική υγεία και συμπεριφορά των εργαζομένων
Authors: Γκιόλια Ευαγγελία
Published: June 2024

Η Διατροφική Ζώνη αποτελεί μια ισορροπημένη αντιφλεγμονώδη δίαιτα με μεγάλη έμφαση στην ορμονική ρύθμιση του οργανισμού, από τον έλεγχο στα επίπεδα σακχάρου στο αίμα μέχρι τους βασικούς μηχανισμούς επιβίωσης που περιλαμβάνουν το στρες, το φόβο και τα συναισθήματα. Το σωματικό βάρος,η αντιγήρανση, οι σωματικές ικανότητες, ακόμα και η διάθεση των ανθρώπων εξαρτώνται από τις ορμόνες, οι οποίες ρυθμίζονται από τη διατροφή. Η ζώνη των θρεπτικών συστατικών είναι η φυσιολογική κατάσταση του σώματος, όπου οι ορμόνες μέσα από «τροφή και μοριακά αποσταγμένα ωμέγα-3» εναρμονίζονται για να θεραπεύσουν τη «φλεγμονή» με αποτέλεσμα να οδηγούν σε ψυχική-πνευματική-σωματική υγεία. Βασίζεται σε μια ισορροπία μεταξύ πρωτεϊνών χαμηλών λιπαρών και υδατανθράκων χαμηλού γλυκαιμικού φορτίου, με το 40% των θερμίδων από μακροθρεπτικά συστατικά να προέρχονται από υδατάνθρακες, το 30% από πρωτεΐνες και το 30% από λίπος. Αν και έχουν γίνει ορισμένες συγκρίσεις της δίαιτας ζώνης με άλλες δίαιτες ως προς την απώλεια βάρους (Gardner, 2007), δεν έχουν πραγματοποιηθεί μελέτες σχετικές με την επίδραση της στην υγεία και στην εργασία, καθώς επίσης και την επίδραση της σε ενήλικες με υψηλότερο ΔΜΣ. Η παρούσα διατριβή θα προσπαθήσει να εξετάσει την επίδραση της Διατροφικής Ζώνης στην σωματική και ψυχική υγεία, στην διάρκεια ύπνου, στην φυσική δραστηριότητα και στην εργασιακή απόδοση, στο στρες και στον παρουσιασμό στην εργασία. Επιπλέον διερευνάται, ο ρόλος των δημογραφικών και σωματομετρικών στοιχείων στην βελτίωση της σωματικής, ψυχικής υγείας, της διάρκειας του ύπνου, της εργασιακής απόδοσης, του στρες και του παρουσιασμού των εργαζομένων.
Revelando lo no reportado: extracción de eventos basada en IA para analizar la representación estadounidense de los delitos de odio.
Authors: Suárez Alonso Daniel
Published: June 2024

Los informes oficiales de delitos de odio en los Estados Unidos están subestimados en comparación con la cantidad real de incidentes de este tipo. Además, a pesar de las aproximaciones estadísticas, no hay informes oficiales de muchas ciudades estadounidenses sobre incidentes de odio. Aquí, mostramos inicialmente que la extracción de eventos y el aprendizaje multi-instancia, basados en inteligencia artificial (IA), aplicados a un conjunto de artículos de noticias locales, pueden predecir casos de delitos de odio. Luego utilizamos el modelo entrenado de IA para detectar incidentes de odio en ciudades para las cuales el FBI carece de estadísticas. Finalmente, entrenamos modelos de IA para predecir homicidios y secuestros, comparamos las predicciones con los informes del FBI y establecemos que, de hecho, los incidentes de odio están subestimados en comparación con otros tipos de delitos en la prensa local. Es importante destacar que esta información no ha sido extraída de este lugar.
Pelatihan Pengembangan Media Ajar Berbasis Tools Artificial Intelligence untuk Guru di SMAN 1 Probolinggo
Authors: Pamungkas Yuri , Sain Anabela Aulia , Putri Ziyan Nadia , Larasati Alya Puti , Iqbal Muhammad , Risald Randi Achtiar , Kendenan Valentino , Rachmadiana Josephine Larissa , Ginting Tsamarah Amelia Putri , Nur Rossa Alfi , Balqis Dayana Satira
Published: June 2024

Pemanfaatan kecerdasan buatan (AI) memiliki peran yang sangat signifikan dalam pengembangan media ajar modern. AI memungkinkan media ajar dapat disesuaikan dengan kebutuhan masing-masing siswa. Sistem AI juga dapat memberikan umpan balik secara real-time dan membantu guru memahami kemajuan belajar siswa. Oleh karena itu, dalam kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini, tim dosen departemen teknologi kedokteran bermaksud untuk mengadakan pelatihan pengembangan media ajar berbasis tools AI kepada guru di SMAN 1 Probolinggo. Dengan adanya pelatihan ini, para guru diharapkan mampu memanfaatkan media ajar berbasis AI untuk menunjang proses pembelajaran yang interaktif di dalam kelas. Dalam pengabdian masyarakat ini, terdapat beberapa rangkaian kegiatan yang dilakukan mulai dari perencanaan, survei lokasi, penyusunan modul, pelaksanaan pelatihan, evaluasi acara, dan pembuatan laporan. Dalam pelaksanaannya, terdapat dua sesi acara yaitu penyampaian materi/diskusi dan praktik langsung. Pada akhir pelatihan, peserta juga diminta untuk mengisi formulir survei kepuasan untuk menilai keberhasilan pelaksanaan pelatihan. Dari seluruh rangkaian acara pelatihan di SMAN 1 Probolinggo, dapat disimpulkan bahwa proses pelaksanaan pengabdian masyarakat telah berjalan dengan lancar dengan jumlah peserta pelatihan mencapai 30 guru. Antusiasme peserta pelatihan juga tergolong sangat baik. Hal ini terlihat saat proses pre dan post-test berlangsung, serta hasil dari pengukuran tingkat kepuasan peserta yang mencapai 90%.
Pengembangan Jalur Wisata Budaya Majapahit, Trowulan, Kabupaten Mojokerto Berbasis Network Strategy
Authors: Nurlaela Siti , Siswanto Vely Kukinul , Santoso Eko Budi , Setyaningsih Yuni , Prasetyo Fadil Handika , Saputro Reppy Agung , Dyaksa Gde Abhichanika Pranata , Pramesti Galuh Ajeng , Kurniawan Agil Achmad
Published: June 2024

Potensi destinasi wisata bersejarah di Kecamatan Trowulan menjadikan wilayah ini ditetapkan sebagai situs cagar budaya nasional serta prioritas pertama pembangunan kawasan strategis pariwisata berdasarkan RPJMD Kabupaten Mojokerto Tahun 2021-2026. Sayangnya, pengembangan objek daya tarik wisata (ODTW) yang ada di Kecamatan Trowulan belum merata dan terintegrasi secara penuh. Melalui network analysis yang diintegrasikan dengan metode cluster analysis, pengabdian masyarakat ini diharapkan mampu menghasilkan output dalam pengembangan jalur wisata. Pengembangan prioritas akan berfokus pada cluster yang terpusat sebagai rencana pengembangan lima tahun pertama, meliputi sepuluh objek daya tarik wisata (ODTW) di Kecamatan Trowulan. Kesepuluh ODTW ini akan dihubungkan dengan rute feeder. Feeder sendiri merupakan angkutan umum yang direncanakan beroperasi secara berkala dan disesuaikan dengan jam operasional ODTW yang ada. Sementara itu, penentuan titik transit didasarkan atas keterjangkauan antar ODTW dengan toleransi jarak kurang dari 500 m pelayanan sehingga menghasilkan 6 titik transit dan 1 pemberhentian utama. Indikator waktu yang didapat melalui kecepatan fungsi jalan dan kondisi traffic eksisting menjadi input dalam estimasi waktu tempuh feeder yang nantinya digunakan dalam penentuan jumlah kapasitas feeder yang beroperasi. Melalui pendekatan stakeholder yang dilakukan dalam pengabdian ini, diharapkan pemerintah setempat memiliki gambaran mengenai pemetaan dan rencana program yang akan dilakukan dalam pengembangan pariwisata yang ada.
A new model to predict complex risk following percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Palmer Sarah Jane
Published: June 2024

Sarah Jane Palmer describes recent developments in the use of artificial intelligence to identify genes that influence the shape of the left ventricle, and what this could mean for the wider field.
Engaging nursing students with a behaviour change intervention designed to improve their lifestyle
Authors: Austin Daniela , May Jon
Published: June 2024

Background:

In common with the general population, nursing students struggle to live a healthy lifestyle.

Aims:

To recruit students in a behaviour change intervention, using the COM-B model of behaviour change to understand engagement.

Methods:

Nursing students were invited to complete an online survey assessing height, weight, BMI, physical activity, lifestyle satisfaction, motivation for leading a healthy life, and quality of life. Those identified as overweight or not physically active were offered a webinar and social media site to support setting personal goals and boosting motivation to achieve a healthy lifestyle.

Findings:

25% of invited students engaged with the interventions, 19% attending a webinar and 19% joining the social media site. No statistically reliable differences between those who engaged and those who did not were identified.

Conclusion:

Current models of behaviour change do not predict engagement. Interventions may need to be integrated into the curriculum to elicit change.
Fitness to practise: improving knowledge
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: June 2024

Sam Foster, Executive Director of Professional Practice, Nursing and Midwifery Council, considers how to help members of the public to understand what consitutes a fitness to practise concern
Using Artificial Intelligence to predict outcomes of operatively managed neck of femur fractures
Authors: Silva Geeth , Ashford Robert
Published: June 2024

Aims/Background Patients with neck of femur fractures present a tremendous public health problem that leads to a high incidence of death and dysfunction. An essential factor is the postoperative length of stay, which heavily impacts hospital costs and the quality of care. As an extension of traditional statistical methods, machine learning (ML) provides the possibility of accurately predicting the length of hospital stay. This review assesses how machine learning can effectively use healthcare data to predict the outcomes of patients with operatively managed neck of femurs.

Methods A narrative literature review on the use of Artificial Intelligence to predict outcomes in the neck of femurs was undertaken to understand the field and critical considerations of its application. The papers and any relevant references were scrutinised using the specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to produce papers that were used in the analysis.

Results Thirteen papers were used in the analysis. The critical themes recognised the different models, the 'backbox' conundrum, predictor identification, validation methodology and the need to improve efficiency and quality of care. Through reviewing the themes in this paper, current issues, and potential avenues of advancing the field are explored.

Conclusions This review has demonstrated that the use of machine learning in Orthopaedic pathways is in its infancy. Further work is needed to leverage this technology effectively to improve outcomes.
Tanburda farklı materyallerden üretilen mızrapların çalgının akustik özelliklerine etkilerinin incelenmesi
Authors: Karataş Furkan , Değirmenli Emir
Published: June 2024

Telli çalgılarda ses oluşumu, telde başlayan titreşimlerin çalgının gövdesi ile etkileşime girmesi sonucunda çalgıya özgü nitelikli sesin elde edilmesi sürecidir. Tellerin titreşime geçmesi ise uzun ve yatay bir şekle sahip olan mızrapla gerçekleşir. Bu açıdan mızrabın da ses oluşumunda önemli bir yeri vardır. Tanbur çalgısının icrasında kullanılan mızrabın bağa malzemesinde üretilmesi oldukça geleneksel ve birçok icracı tarafından da vazgeçilmez olarak görülmektedir. Tanbur icrasında yaygın olarak kullanılan bağa mızrap ile farklı materyal mızrapların akustik özellikleri üzerine yapılan ölçümler ve deneme-yanılma yöntemiyle elde edilen mızrap seçimlerinin daha bilinçli bir şekilde yapılmasına olanak tanıması ve akustik ölçüm teknikleri kullanılarak yapılmış mızrap materyallerinin karşılaştırılması adına bir ilk açısından büyük önem taşımaktadır. Bu çalışma özellikle günümüzde bağa teminindeki zorluklar ve nesli tükenmekte olan karetta karettalar için etik hassasiyetler dikkate alınarak, bağa mızrap için alternatif malzemelerin kullanım durumunu incelenerek alternatif mızrap kullanılabilirliği amaçlanmaktadır. Bu bağlamda, delrin, galalit, katalin, kemik, mikarta’dan üretilen tanbur mızraplarının çalgı sesi üzerindeki etkileri araştırılmıştır. Bunun için özel bir mızrap vuruş sistemi tasarlanmış ve her bir malzemeden üretilen mızraplarla tanburun aynı hız ve açıda uyarılması sağlanmıştır. Bu araştırma sürecinde toplanan verilerin değerlendirilmesinde, birçok ses analiz yönteminin temelini oluşturan Fourier dönüşümü kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen sesler 1/3 oktav bandı ve harmonik analiz teknikleri kullanılarak karşılaştırılmıştır. Çalışmanın bulgularında bağa ile yapılan karşılaştırmalarda, delrin, kemik ve mikartadan yapılan mızraplar daha yüksek ses şiddeti ve yüksek harmoniklerde artış gösterirken katalin ve galalit mızraplar daha düşük ses şiddeti harmoniklerde düşük seviyede ses oluşumu göstermiştir. Bağanın bu şekilde orta seviyede bulunması, farklı materyallerdeki mızrapların tasarım ve malzeme özelliklerindeki kontrollü değişimler ile bağa mızraba alternatif olabilecekleri sonucuna varılmıştır. Bu bağlamda çalışmanın, tanbur mızrap malzemesi seçiminde çalgı yapımı ve icra alanlarında konusunda katkı sağlaması hedeflenmektedir.
Clinical study of palmar foot pain in 30 polo ponies with forelimb lameness in Thailand
Authors:   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Mae Hia, Muaeng, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Watchrarat Krisana , Kidtiwong Angkana ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Mae Hia, Muaeng, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Isawirodom Ashannut ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Mae Hia, Muaeng, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Phetkarl Tanakorn ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Mae Hia, Muaeng, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Sthaporn Teerapol ,   Thai Polo and Equestrian Club Pong, Bang lamung, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand, Na Lampang Kannika ,   Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Mae Hia, Muaeng, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Warrit Kanawee ,   Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Mae Hia, Muaeng, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Rungsri Porrakote ,   Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Mae Hia, Muaeng, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Published: June 2024

Palmar foot pain is an important chronic problem that impairs the abilities of sport horses. Though there are several research on different types of horses, there is a lack of information regarding polo horses, which are known for using in unique sport. Therefore, this research aimed to find the prevalence of palmar foot pain in polo ponies with forelimb lameness in Thailand. The horses included in this study were 30 Argentine polo ponies: 10 geldings and 20 mares, aged from 7 to 20 years old. All were barefoot and had not exercised for at least 2 months. The ponies underwent lameness examination procedures with subjective and objective evaluation, including a trot on a straight line, left and right lunging, a full forelimb flexion test and a toe wedge test. Close inspections of hoof conformation, hoof percussion and hoof testing were done before performing a palmar digital nerve block. The result showed that 25 (83.33%) of 30 polo ponies had forelimb lameness, which can be divided into 56.7% with unilateral forelimb lameness, and 26.7% with bilateral forelimb lameness. There were 17 (56.7%) polo ponies that responded positively to the full flexion test and 25 (83.33%) that responded positively to the hoof tester and percussion at the frog area. However, only 9 ponies (30%) were positive to palmar nerve block. In conclusion, this study reveals a notable incidence of forelimb lameness and palmar foot pain. Understanding palmar foot pain prevalence is vital for further equine health management.
Effect of pepper (Capsicum sp) on productivity and egg quality of laying hens: a meta-analysis
Authors:   Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl.Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Hanif Muhammad Fathin , Ariyadi Bambang ,   Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, . Muhlisin ,   Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl.Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia, Agus Ali ,   Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl.Fauna No. 3 Bulaksumur, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
Published: June 2024

The restriction on the use of antibiotics as a growth promotant in poultry diets, due to their adverse effects, has led to increased use of feed additives with natural ingredients such as medicinal plants and herbs. Pepper (Capsicum sp) is a potential feed additive as an antibiotic alternative in laying hen diet. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of pepper supplementation on the performance and egg quality attributes of laying hens. The PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Science Direct databases were searched for peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials written in English. Information on the moderators (hen age at the beginning of the intervention, pepper preparation form, inclusion level of pepper, and treatment duration) were required for inclusion in the meta-analysis, as well an acceptable explanation of randomization, statistical analysis of egg production and quality, and associated variance measurements, such as standard deviation or standard error. The meta-analysis included 19 research papers that met the criteria. Open meta-analyst for ecology and evolution (OpenMEE) software was used for all analyses. The pooled results demonstrated that supplementing with pepper reduced feed intake by −0.44 g/day, increased HDEP by 0.71% and egg yolk color by 5.7 but had no effect on FCR or egg weight compared to the control, after considering publication bias and heterogeneity. Hens provided diets with or without peppers had comparable HDEP. This meta-analysis indicates that pepper can be used as a feed additive in laying hens to increase egg production and egg yolk color.
Development of a one-step multiplex (RT)-PCR for simultaneous detection of virus-induced respiratory disease complex in dogs in Vietnam
Authors:   Falcuty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Vietnam, Tran Dao Huyen , Chien Nguyen Tran Phuoc ,   Falcuty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Vietnam, Anh Nguyen Thi Lan ,   Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Husbandry, HUTECH University, Vietnam, Uan Pham Cong ,   Faculty of Agriculture and Rural Development, Kien Giang University, Vietnam, Quyen To My ,   Falcuty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Vietnam, Quan Nguyen Pham Nha ,   Falcuty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Vietnam, Trang Chau Thi Huyen ,   Falcuty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Vietnam, Nguyen Lam Thanh ,   Falcuty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Vietnam
Published: June 2024

Canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) viruses, particularly canine distemper virus (CDV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), and canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV), are the primary agents responsible for respiratory diseases in dogs. A dog can be infected with a single or multiple viruses with similar clinical signs. Although CIRD is globally prevalent in dogs, investigation into the causative viruses in Vietnam remains limited. This study aims to identify the presence of CIRD virus(es) in dogs via molecular detection. Three primer sets were newly designed and applied into (RT)-PCR reaction to detect viral genes of CDV, CAV-2, and CPIV in a commercial vaccine (Vanguard® Plus 5/L, Zoetis, USA). Both simplex and multiplex (RT)-PCR reactions using the three primer sets could detect the presence of CAV-2, CDV, and CPIV in the vaccine sample. Subsequently, the applicability of the one-step multiplex (RT)-PCR was demonstrated to test for 27 clinical nasal swab samples collected from dogs suspected of having CIRD. The results showed that our (RT)-PCR could detect CIRD virus(es) in all tested clinical samples. PCR amplicons for each representative CAV-2, CDV, and CPIV were selected for sequencing and showed high genetic similarity to respective field viruses. In conclusion, this study successfully developed a one-step multiplex (RT)-PCR reaction to detect and differentiate causative viruses of CIRD in dogs.
Impact of heat stress on blood physiological parameters, body temperature, respiratory frequency, antioxidant status, carcass quality, production performance, and egg quality of Japanese quails
Authors:   Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Khang Nguyen Thi Kim , Suong Ngo Thi Minh ,   Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Can Tho University, Can Tho 900000, Vietnam, Takahashi Masashi ,   Department of Animal Science, Hokkaido University, Kita9 Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8589, Japan
Published: June 2024

The study was performed with three experiments. The first experiment studied respiratory rate (RR), body temperature (BT), blood physiological parameters (BPP), serum antioxidant enzyme activities (SAEA), and meat quality of 240 quails under three temperatures (38 °C, 25 °C, and environmental temperature 30 °C) and two bodyweights (heavy and lighter). Heat stress (HS) increased RR and BT of quails but had no effect on BPP; superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was decreased in group 38 °C (P<0.05), and a trend of increasing glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) was also observed in group 38 °C (P=0.06); meat quality was not affected by HS except yellow index of meat color was increased (P<0.05). The second experiment was conducted with 168 quails (experiment 1) to record reproductive performance and egg quality. HS negatively affected feed intake, egg weight, egg height, albumen height, yolk weight, yolk color, and Haugh unit (P<0.05). The third experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of HS on growth and reproductive performance, and SAEA of the first generation (G1) from 84 quails (experiment 2). Feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio in the 38 °C H – G1 quail line were not significantly different from other groups. The higher egg weight and egg production were discovered in heat-stressed G1 groups. The lowest value of SOD and GSH-Px was reported in the 38 °C H – G1 quail line but no different in catalase (P>0.05). The 38 °C – G1 quail groups adapted to HS from G0 by expanding feed intake at the growing phase, improving egg weight and egg production, and maintaining the low SAEA.
Efficient fiber-inspection and certification method for optical-circuit-switched datacenter networks
Authors: Anazawa Kazuya , Inoue Takeru , Mano Toru , Nishizawa Hideki , Oki Eiji
Published: June 2024

Datacenter networks (DCNs) consisting of optical circuit switches (OCSs) have been considered as a promising solution to dramatically improve their transmission capacity, energy efficiency, and communication latency. To scale optical-circuit-switched DCNs (OCS DCNs), hierarchical OCSs with tens of thousands of optical fibers need to be installed, and they should be inspected before starting datacenter operations. Since traditional DCNs consist of electrical-packet switches (EPSs), the condition and cabling of fibers can be inspected easily by probing neighboring EPSs. However, OCS networks cannot be inspected in the same manner because OCSs cannot transmit and receive probe signals. Thus, we have had to attach and detach a light source and power meter (LSPM) to every switch for probing all the fibers, which takes weeks. This paper proposes an efficient method for inspecting and certifying fibers in an entire DCN without repeating LSPM reattachment. Our method is based on (1) theories on quickly estimating the fiber condition on the basis of the intensity of received probe signals, (2) the maximum allowable loss of each fiber derived from the transceiver budget used in operations, and (3) an algorithm that reduces the number of probes needed. The results from an extensive numerical evaluation indicate that our method inspected a DCN with 18,432 fibers in at most a day, whereas a baseline method involving repeated LSPM reattachment would take more than a week. We also confirmed that our method never produced false negatives and false positives under practical network conditions.
Active forest stewardship benefits priority birds in the New Jersey Pine Barrens
Authors: Williams Christopher K. , Terhune Theron M. , Parke John , Matseur Elizabeth A. , Cecil John
Published: June 2024

Fire suppression has negatively impacted thousands of acres of private and public lands in the United States. As a case study, the New Jersey Pine Barrens (NJPB) are a disturbance driven ecosystem that is experiencing serious ecological implications due to a loss of traditional forest thinning activities such as harvesting for forest products or thinning for wildfire fuel-load reduction measures coupled with a long-standing philosophy of fire suppression and dormant-season prescribed burning. Dense closed-canopy forest conditions, dissimilar to historic open-canopy forests of the NJPB, have reduced abundance and diversity of certain flora and fauna, including regionally imperiled breeding birds. In recent years, active forest stewardship (e.g., thinning, clear-cutting, and burning) has occurred on private and some public lands within the NJPB; however, the impact of such management on breeding birds is unclear due to a paucity of research on this subject within the NJPB. During 2012, 2013, 2016, and 2017, we conducted repeat-visit point counts (n = 1,800) for breeding songbirds across 75 control and 75 treatment sites within the NJPB to assess the influence of forest structure at three strata levels (groundcover, midstory profile, and canopy) on breeding bird communities. Specifically, we constructed a hierarchical community abundance model within a Bayesian framework for Bird Conservation Region (BCR) 30 priority upland birds (n = 12) within three species suites: Forested Upland, Scrub-Shrub (or Young Forest), and Grassland. At the community level, we found a negative relationship between bird abundance and live tree basal area. At the BCR 30 suite level, we found no relationship between Forested Upland suite-level abundance and any of the measured covariates; however, we found a negative relationship between percentage of woody groundcover and Scrub-Shrub suite-level abundance, and negative relationship between horizontal visual obstruction at 2 m above ground level and Grassland suite-level abundance. Furthermore, the two latter species suites exhibited a strong negative relationship with basal area. We recommend active forest stewardship that specifically targets opening the canopy to achieve basal areas between ~0–15 m2/ha via selective thinning, shelter cutting, and small-scale clear cutting. Mechanical treatment and prescribed burning would produce such conditions and have the added benefit of reducing fuel loads across this ~4,500 km2 landscape as well as assisting in carbon defense strategies for the region.
Parrots in the wild in Polish cities
Authors: Ważna Agnieszka , Ciepliński Mateusz , Ratajczak Weronika , Bojarski Jacek , Cichocki Jan
Published: June 2024

Amateur breeding of parrots as pets has contributed to many species being found in areas where they never occurred in the wild, particularly in warmer regions, but also in the temperate climates of North America and Europe. Climate change is likely to exacerbate this process. We hypothesised that parrots occurred in the wild in the cities of Poland, especially the rose-ringed parakeet, as there are reports of breeding sites in the literature. Using information on lost, found and sighted parrots posted on social media, we have analysed the extent of parrot emergence in Poland. In a period of less than two years (from October 2018, through 2019 and from June to the end of December 2021), 2,675 parrot specimens of 49 species were found in the wild. The most frequently observed species were cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus (N = 962), budgerigar Melopsittacus undulatus (N = 884) and rose-ringed parakeet Psittacula krameri (N = 182). Parrots were most frequently observed in urban areas, in regions characterized by a higher population size, a higher income and a higher proportion of people with a university degree. Our study shows that the occurrence of parrots, especially rose-ringed parakeets in the wild, needs to be monitored as new breeding sites may appear.
A four-week minimalist shoe walking intervention influences foot posture and balance in young adults–a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gabriel Anna , Fuchs Katharina , Haller Bernhard , Sulowska-Daszyk Iwona , Horstmann Thomas , Konrad Andreas
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Minimalist shoes (MS) are beneficial for foot health. The foot is a part of the posterior chain. It is suggested that interventions on the plantar foot sole also affect the upper segments of the body. This study aimed to investigate the local and remote effects along the posterior chain of four weeks of MS walking in recreationally active young adults.

Methods

28 healthy participants (15 female, 13 male; 25.3 ± 5.3 years; 70.2 ± 11.9 kg; 175.0 ± 7.8 cm) were randomly assigned to a control- or intervention group. The intervention group undertook a four-week incremental MS walking program, which included 3,000 steps/day in the first week, increasing to 5,000 steps/day for the remaining three weeks. The control group walked in their preferred shoe (no MS). We assessed the following parameters in a laboratory at baseline [M1], after the four-week intervention [M2], and after a four-week wash-out period [M3]: Foot parameters (i.e., Foot Posture Index-6, Arch Rigidity Index), static single-leg stance balance, foot-, ankle-, and posterior chain range of motion, and muscle strength of the posterior chain. We fitted multiple hierarchically built mixed models to the data.

Results

In the MS group, the Foot Posture Index (b = -3.72, t(51) = -6.05, p < .001, [-4.94, 2.51]) and balance (b = -17.96, t(49) = -2.56, p = .01, [-31.54, 4.37]) significantly improved from M1 to M2, but not all other parameters (all p >.05). The improvements remained at M3 (Foot Posture Index: b = -1.71, t(51) = -2.73, p = .009, [-4,94,0.48]; balance: b = -15.97, t(49) = -2.25, p = .03, [-29.72, 2.21]).

Discussion

Walking in MS for four weeks might be advantageous for foot health of recreationally active young adults but no chronic remote effects should be expected.
Exploring the effects of noise pollution on physiology and ptilochronology of birds
Authors: Amjad Rida , Ruby Tahira , Ali Kashif , Asad Muhammad , Imtiaz Ayesha , Masood Samra , Saeed Muhammad Qamar , Arshad Maryam , Talib Saima , Alvi Qura-tul Ain , Khan Afifa , Sharif Muhammad Muazim
Published: June 2024

Short and long-term sound-induced stress on daily basis can affect the physiology of avian individuals because they are more susceptible to sound stress in an open environment. Objectives: An ex-situ study was carried out to determine the impact of noise on physiology and ptilochronology of non-breeding male domesticated quail birds. Methodology: During 60-days long trial, male quail birds, aged 5-weeks, weighing (c.100gm) were used. Out of 72 experimental birds, 18 birds were assigned to the Control Group (G1) while remaining 54 birds were divided equally into 3 treatment groups: Road Traffic noise (G2), Military activity noise (G3) and Human Activities noise (G4). Birds were housed in standard-sized separate cages (20 ×45 × 20 cm), every bird was kept apart in separate cage in open laboratory under maintained environmental conditions. Millet seeds and water were provided to all the experimental birds ad libitum. Noise originated from several sources of recorded high-intensity music (1125 Hz/ 90 dB), was administered for 5–6 hours per day. Observations were recorded in the morning and afternoon. The experiment was conducted during the non-breeding season from August to October in triplicate. Blood sampling was done after 60 days. Results: According to the current study, noise stress significantly (p<0.05) increased the concentrations of creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, uric acid, cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, and glucose while a decline in the levels of albumin was seen in treatment birds of G3. While in terms of hematology, total white blood cells count (TWBC), total red blood cells count (TRBC), mean cell volume (MCV) & packed cell volume (PCV) concentrations were raised in blood of treatment birds of G3. In terms of hormones, noise stress significantly (p<0.05) increased the serum concentrations of Corticosterone in G3 while a significant (p<0.05) decline was observed in the concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in the same group. Moreover, fault bar formation in G3 was more prominent than others. Conclusion: Noise stress can significantly affect serology, hematology, hormonal physiology and ptilochronology in quail birds.
The ethics of the everyday: Mauritian morning talk radio as a space for democratic engagement
Authors: Chenganna Azhagan , Wasserman Herman
Published: June 2024

Morning talk radio in Mauritius has established itself as a popular platform where participants phone in to raise problems they encounter in their everyday lives. The first wave of liberalization of the airwaves in Mauritius has allowed private radio stations to schedule talk programmes, especially in their morning editions, that create spaces for the voices of ordinary people to be heard as they speak, contest decisions of powerholders and look for alternatives through the mediation of talk radio. Through discourse theoretical analysis, this article looks into a set of five cases and argues that morning talk radio has mediated a process of democratization conflicts and engaged popular cultural dynamics in the unequal context of Mauritius. It argues that through the prism of ‘proper distance’, the mediation of everyday life can be deciphered highlighting the moral and political dimensions of these morning programmes.