bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A history of adnexal surgery and tuberculosis are risk factors for ovarian pregnancy following assisted reproductive technology: a retrospective matched case-control study
Authors: Guo Kaixuan , Yao Zhi , Wen Chengcheng , Ding Hongna , Zhou Xiaojing , Zhang Lin
Published: August 2024

Background
Ovarian pregnancy (OP) is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy that poses significant medical challenges. With the advancement of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in recent decades, the clinical pregnancy rate among infertile women has risen. ART has been linked to the occurrence of OP.
Methods
A retrospective matched case-control study in a single-center setting involved a total of 16,398 infertility patients who underwent IVF/ICSI-ET between January 2007 and June 2018, including 10 women with OP, 16,076 women with intrauterine pregnancy (IUP), and 312 women withtubal pregnancy (TP).These groups were matched according to age (± 1 year) and gestational age (± 7 days) in a ratio of 1:4:4 and were divided into OP group (n = 7), TP group (n = 28), and IUP group (n = 28).The personal and clinical characteristics of patients in different groups were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted to identify the independent risk factors of OP.
Results
In our study, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a history of adnexal surgery (crude odds ratio [OR] = 5.81, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30–25.97, P = 0.02; adjusted OR = 10.22, 95% CI: 1.57–66.37, P = 0.01) and tuberculosis (TB) history (crude OR = 6.60, 95% CI: 1.28–34.02, P = 0.03; adjusted OR = 12.85, 95% CI: 1.40–117.73, P = 0.02) are risk factors for OP compared to the IUP group. Although the dosage of gonadotropin did not differ among the three groups, a significant disparity was observed in serum β-hCG levels on the 14th day of embryo transfer (P < 0.001). Additionally, OP patients exhibited higher β-hCG levels compared to TP patients (918.35 ± 805.38 vs. 254.29 ± 215.82, P = 0.0005).
Conclusions
Among infertile women undergoing ART, risk factors for OP include a history of adnexal surgery and TB. Furthermore, OP patients tend to have higher β-hCG levels than TP patients on the 14th day of embryo transfer.
Three-dimensional fiber orientation mapping of the human brain at micrometer resolution
Authors: Wang Hui , Ammon William , Jones Robert , Nolan Jackson , Gong Dayang , Maffei Chiara , Edlow Brian , Augustinack Jean , Magnain Caroline , Yendiki Anastasia , Villiger Martin , Fischl Bruce , Liu Chao
Published: August 2024

The accurate measurement of three-dimensional (3D) fiber orientation in the brain is crucial for reconstructing fiber pathways and studying their involvement in neurological diseases. Comprehensive reconstruction of axonal tracts and small fascicles requires high-resolution technology beyond the ability of current in vivo imaging (e.g. diffusion magnetic resonance imaging). Optical imaging methods such as polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) and polarization microscopy can quantify fiber orientation at micrometer resolution but have been limited to two-dimensional in-plane orientation or thin slices, preventing the comprehensive study of connectivity in 3D. In this work we present a novel method to quantify volumetric 3D orientation in full angular space with PS-OCT. We measure the polarization contrasts of the brain sample from two illumination angles of 0 and 15 degrees and apply a computational method that yields the 3D optic axis orientation and true birefringence. We further present 3D fiber orientation maps of entire coronal cerebrum sections and brainstem with 10 μm in-plane resolution, revealing unprecedented details of fiber configurations. We envision that our method will open a promising avenue towards large-scale 3D fiber axis mapping in the human brain as well as other complex fibrous tissues at microscopic level.
Scaling A Blockchain-Based System Via Optimized Load Balancing Among Shards
Authors: Rahman Fahad , Titouna Chafiq , Naït-Abdesselam Farid
Published: August 2024

Blockchain technology, despite its transformative potential, often encounters scalabil-ity challenges that hinder its widespread adoption. This research proposes an innovative approach to improve Blockchain scalability through optimized load balancing by distributing nodes within shards, leveraging different distribution of M/M/k model. To ensure balanced processing, incoming and outgoing queries are handled with distinct distribution methods, reducing idle time and enhancing network traffic management. To validate our approach, we conducted comprehensive performance comparisons with traditional top load balancing techniques, including Round-Robin (RR), Least Connection (LC) and their variants. The results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly outperformed these conventional techniques in terms of load distribution efficiency, response time, and overall system scalability. This study provides a compelling case to adopt our optimized load balancing strategy in Blockchain systems, paving the way for more scalable and robust Blockchain applications.
Wind Extremes over Built Terrain: Characterization and Geometric Determinants
Authors: Wang Jing , Llaguno-Munitxa Maider , Li Qi , Giometto Marco , Bou-Zeid Elie
Published: August 2024

Cities feature complex and heterogeneous topographies that create highly-variable airflow patterns and dynamics. The resulting extreme high and low winds challenge urban design's quest for maintaining a safe and comfortable environment. This study investigates these urban wind extrema by conducting large-eddy simulations (LESs) in four American cities with distinct topographic features and links the resulting winds to geometric indicators. By analyzing the profile and spatial variation of the wind extrema, the simulations illustrate that gust zones tend to occur along wind-oriented streets and on both sides of high-rise buildings, while stagnation zones are mostly located in the lee of tall or wide buildings. Potential geometric parameters explaining these winds extrema are investigated, including the plan and frontal area fraction and the sky view factor. These findings advance our ability to predict wind conditions solely based on urban geometry, and ultimately to design more resilient, sustainable, and livable cities.
A Method for the Inverse Dynamic Analysis of Unstable Multibody Models
Authors: Trujillo David
Published: August 2024

Inverse dynamic analysis is the estimation of unknown applied forces and moments on a multibody model that when applied to a forward dynamic model will closely match measured data. In addition to the models being nonlinear , this analysis is made more difficult when the multibody model is unstable. This paper presents an inverse method that address these difficulties.
Conversion of Speech to Text: Transcribe and Translate Using Whisper AI on iOS
Authors: Dwivedi Chandan Kumar
Published: August 2024

This thesis investigates the implementation and efficiency of Whisper AI for transcribing and translating speech to text on iOS devices. Leveraging a large-scale weakly supervised dataset, Whisper AI demonstrates robust performance across multiple languages and tasks. The study explores its architecture, implementation on iOS, and performance comparisons with existing models. Findings indicate significant potential for real-world applications, despite some computational and accuracy challenges.
Atomically-precise synthesis and simultaneous integration of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides enabled by nano-confinement
Authors: Gao Hong-Jun , Bian Ce , Zhao Yifan , Guzman Roger , Liu Hongtao , Hu Hao , Qi Qi , Zhu Ke , Wang Hao , Wu Kang , Guo Hui , He Wanzhen , Xu Zhiping , Zhou Wu , Ding Feng , Yang Haitao
Published: August 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), possess intriguing properties imparted by their unique atomic-scale structures, and greatly enriched by their various van der Waals (vdW) homo-/heterostructures. Therefore, the precise synthesis of 2D TMDs and their vdW integration with clean interfaces are highly desired, while still challenging. Here, we present a nano-confined chemical vapor deposition approach which enables the atomically-precise synthesis of 2D TMDs and their simultaneous vdW integration with graphene. Within the nano-confinement, 2D TMDs (e.g., NbSe2) that tend to form thick crystals are precisely monolayered owing to an unusual growth kinetics underneath graphene. A sub-monolayer architecture, Janus S-Mo-Se with the polar chalcogen arrangement, is further achieved with the nano-confinement effects. The simultaneous integration of a TMD monolayer with graphene guarantees an ultraclean vdW interface which gives rise to emergent properties. Examples include a conduction enhancement in the graphene/NbSe2 heterostructure and a photomemory effect in the graphene/Janus MoSSe heterostructure. Our results provide a promising platform to realize the atomically-precise synthesis and ultraclean vdW integration of TMD monolayers.
Multi-shank 1024 channels active SiNAPS probe for large multi-regional topographical electrophysiological mapping of neural dynamics
Authors: Berdondini Luca , Angotzi Gian Nicola , Voroslakos Mihaly , Perentos Nicholas , Ribeiro Joao Filipe , Vincenzi Matteo , Boi Fabio , Lecomte Aziliz , Orban Gabor , Genewsky Andreas , Schwesig Gerrit , Aykan Deren , Buzsáki György , Sirota Anton
Published: August 2024

Implantable active dense CMOS neural probes unlock the possibility of spatiotemporally resolving the activity of hundreds of single neurons in multiple brain circuits to investigate brain dynamics. Mapping neural dynamics in brain circuits with anatomical structures spanning several millimeters, however, remains challenging. Here, we demonstrate the first CMOS neural probe for mapping intracortical neural dynamics (both LFPs and spikes) in awake, behaving mice from an area >4 mm2. By taking advantage of the modularity of our SiNAPS technology, we realized an eight shanks probe with 1024 electrode channels arranged on each shank in regular arrays with an electrode pitch <30 μm. Low-noise recordings from all electrodes at 20 kHz/channel demonstrate a field of view spanning the 2D lattice of the entire mice hippocampal circuit, together with cortical and thalamic regions. This arrangement allows combining large population unit recording across distributed networks with precise intra- and interlaminar/nuclear mapping of the oscillatory dynamics.
Mother Transformer: A High-Throughput, Cost-Effective in Planta Hairy Root Transformation Method for Cannabis
Authors: Ajdanian Ladan , Torkamaneh Davoud
Published: August 2024

Background Hairy root (HR) transformation assays mediated by Agrobacterium rhizogenes, both in vitro and ex vitro, are essential tools in plant biotechnology and functional genomics. These assays can be significantly influenced by various factors, which ultimately can enhance the efficiency. In this study, we optimized a two-step ex vitro HR transformation method using the actual mother plant combined with the RUBY system and tested with existing methods.Results The two-step ex vitro method proved more efficient than both the one-step ex vitro and in vitro methods, with the highest transformation efficiency of 90% observed in the actual plant. This technique also demonstrated a faster and less complicated approach, reducing time to achieve massive transgenic HR formation by 9–29 days compared to other methods.Conclusions A novel, quicker, less complicated, and more efficient two-step transformation method for cannabis has been established, presenting a significantly lower risk of contamination. This protocol is particularly interesting to produce secondary metabolites using the CRISPR/Cas system in cannabis. We anticipate that this method will facilitate substantial time savings by rapidly producing hundreds of transformed samples.
Saddle Nose Deformity Reconstruction in Yemen: A Prospective Study of the Diced Cartilage Fascia Technique
Authors: Alsiaghi Yahia Ahmed , Al-Shoaibi Mohammed Hasan , Al-ajaly Mohaned Yahia , Ghanem Ayman Mohammed , Jowah Haitham Mohammed
Published: August 2024

Background: Saddle nose deformity is a significant challenge in conflict-affected and resource-limited settings. The diced cartilage fascia (DCF) technique, which involves wrapping diced cartilage in the fascia, has demonstrated promising results, but it remains underexplored.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction of the DCF technique for saddle nose deformity reconstruction in Yemen.
Methods: This prospective case series included 30 patients who underwent nasal reconstruction using the DCF technique between January 2020 and January 2023. Outcomes were assessed through pre- and postoperative photographs, Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scores, Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE) scores, and patient interviews over a 6-month follow-up period.
Results: Significant improvements in nasal shape and function were observed. The mean A-B line measurement increased from 16.75 mm to 21 mm (p < 0.001), and the mean NOSE score decreased from 52.8 to 5 (p < 0.01). Patient satisfaction was notably high, with 96.7% of patients reporting excellent satisfaction. The complication rate was 6.6%, and manageable issues, such as nasal deviation and infection.
Conclusion: The DCF technique is a safe and effective method for correcting saddle nose deformity in resource-limited settings and has significant functional and esthetic improvements. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is recommended to validate these findings.
Wt1+/Itga4+ progenitors drive epicardial-derived cell expansion via non-canonical Wnt signalling
Authors: Perez-Pomares Jose , Marín-Sedeño Ernesto , Cobos-Figueroa Jorge , Sánchez-Mata Alicia , Cano Elena , Diaz-Martínez Luis , Lescroart Fabienne , Ruiz-Villalba Adrian
Published: August 2024

The correct formation of the epicardium – the outermost tissue layer of the heart – is crucial to proper cardiac embryonic morphogenesis. However, our knowledge of the molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating epicardial progenitor cell conversion into primitive epicardial cells is limited. By combining in vivo mouse models for cell lineage tracing, high throughput transcriptomic technologies, and in vitro assays, we have characterised the proepicardium (PE), the transient extracardiac structure that contains epicardial progenitors. Our study reveals that only Wt1+/Itga4+ PE cells truly represent the progenitors of primitive epicardial cells and epicardium-derived cells (EPDCs). We show that early EPDCs display a high proliferative activity that is regulated by non-canonical Wnt signals (Wnt5a/c-Jun axis). This study redefines the concept of PE/epicardial progenitors, uncovers relevant aspects of the mechanisms controlling early EPDC formation, and lays the foundation for future research on EPDC differentiation in clinically relevant cardiac interstitial cells.
Superconducting Characteristics of a Graphite/N-Alkane Mixture above Room Temperature
Authors: Kawashima* Yasushi
Published: August 2024

The resistance of a pitch-based carbon fiber/n-alkane (n-CkH2k+2, k = 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 16) mixture in a heated Teflon tube was measured using a two-terminal measurement. The results showed that the resistance suddenly increased at temperatures between 367.77 and 504.24 K (Tincrease), and that the amount of change in resistance at Tincrease varied by two orders of magnitude between the samples. Measurements and calculations revealed that n-alkanes did not reach their boiling points at Tincrease, indicating that this rapid increase in resistance was a property of the mixture. The extremely large resistance range of the mixture after the sudden resistance increase is due to the change in the aspect ratio of the carbon fibers. However, these large variations were not observed below Tincrease, suggesting that n-alkanes dramatically reduce the resistance of the mixture below Tincrease. The sudden increase in resistance at Tincrease and the alkane effect support the hypothesis that Tincrease is the critical temperature for superconductivity. The larger is the average aspect ratio of the carbon fiber, i.e., the larger are the sides of the fiber (graphite basal surface), the higher is the Tincrease. Therefore, adsorption of n-alkanes onto the graphite basal surface increases Tincrease (Tc), which is consistent with the prediction made by Ginzburg's theory of surface superconductivity. Based on Ginzburg's theory, the appearance of room temperature superconductivity in mixtures of graphite and n-alkane was attributed to a remarkable fit between the hydrogen atoms bonded to one side of the zigzag carbon chain of n-alkane and the hexagonal center formed by the carbon atoms on the graphite basal plane.
Acute Kidney Injury in a Febrile Neutropenic Post-chemotherapy Patient Following Combination Antibiotic Therapy- a Case Report
Authors: S Arun , Didel Siyaram , Kumar Tarun , Ambwani Sneha , Mittal Aliza , Barman Debasish
Published: August 2024

The incidence of febrile neutropenia secondary to high-dose methotrexate is not an uncommon adverse reaction in hematology patients. However, acute kidney injury (AKI) following the combination of piperacillin and vancomycin in pediatric patientsis a relatively uncommon adverse drug reaction. In this report, an 11-year-old male patient in the pediatric hematologydepartment presented with febrile neutropenia and mucositis postchemotherapywith high dose methotrexate for B-ALL (acute lymphoblastic leukemia) as induction therapy. For that, he was treated with a combination (piperacillin-tazobactam + vancomycincombination) of antibiotics along with supportive treatment. Two days after theinitiation of this combination, the patient presented with derangement of renal parameters and serumpotassium levelsand developedacute kidney injury. After the combination of antibiotics was stopped andthe antibiotics were switched to teicoplanin and cefoperazone-sulbactam combination, the patient’s renal parameters recovered in the subsequent 3—4 days, and the patient was discharged with a normal hematological and renal profile in stable condition. This case report highlights the incidence of acute kidney failure with hyperkalemia as an adverse drug reaction secondary to combination antibiotic therapy consisting of piperacillin-tazobactam + vancomycin. This adverse drug reaction can be considered “possible” according to the WHO casualty assessment.
Predictors of nurses' work-related mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: a paired follow-up study.
Authors: Nagel Cicilia , Nilsson Kerstin
Published: August 2024

Nurses are among society's mainstays, as they care for and take care of sick people. Therefore, it is also important that society ensure that nurses have a good working situation, as they run an increased risk of experiencing negative psychological conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion, due to the demanding nature of their work. The strain on healthcare staff, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has highlighted these challenges. The aim was to investigate predictors of work-related mental health problems in nurses’ work situations. A questionnaire was sent to 9219 Swedish nurses in 2017, and 4962 responded. Of these, 3777 had no diagnosed work-related mental health problems and were therefore selected as the study population. The questionnaire was resent to the nurses during the pandemic in 2020, and 3107 responded. Of these previously healthy registered nurses, 143 stated that they now suffered from a work-related mental health problem. The data were analyzed by logistic regression analysis, and 6 out of the 24 investigated statements were statistically significant, i.e., there was a possible causal relationship between nurses’ work situation and their worsening of mental health problems. The statements used were “I do not feel I get enough rest/recuperation between work shifts”, “The work pace in my daily work is too high”, “I do not feel I have enough support from my coworkers”, “I do not experience joy in my daily work”, “I do not feel like my daily work is meaningful”, and “I do not get enough opportunities at work to utilize my skills and knowledge”. Conclusions: This study revealed that work pace, recovery, support from colleagues, joy, meaningfulness, and development opportunities at work are particularly important for nurses' mental health. Actions in those areas are needed for nurses to have a sustainable work situation.
Enhancing Inference Efficiency and Accuracy in Large Language Models through Next-Phrase Prediction
Authors: Vima Cegu , Bosch Hanger , Harringstone John
Published: August 2024

The ability to generate coherent and contextually relevant text is increasingly important in a variety of applications, prompting the need for more sophisticated language models. Our novel approach to next-phrase prediction within the Llama 2 model architecture significantly enhances both the accuracy and efficiency of text generation, setting it apart from traditional next-word prediction methods. Through the implementation of a dual-stage encoder-decoder framework, integrated attention mechanisms, and reinforcement learning techniques, the modified model achieves substantial improvements in BLEU and ROUGE scores, as well as reductions in perplexity, latency, and computational resource usage. Extensive evaluations across diverse datasets demonstrate the model's robustness and generalizability, showing its potential to significantly advance applications reliant on advanced language modeling capabilities. The research highlights the importance of continual innovation in optimizing model architectures and training methodologies to meet the growing demands of various natural language processing tasks. By systematically addressing the limitations of existing approaches, the study contributes valuable insights and methodologies to the field, paving the way for more efficient and accurate language models in real-time applications.
Evaluation of the nexus between student attitude, teacher teaching methods, and achievement in junior secondary school mathematics
Authors: Oladele Babatunde Kasim , Ligali Omotayo , Ndlovu Mdutshekelwa
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the relationship among students’ attitudes, teachers’ teaching methods, and mathematics achievement in Lagos State, Nigeria. The study employed a correlational research design. The population consisted of all the public junior secondary school students in Lagos State. The stratified sampling technique was used to select 30 junior secondary schools across the six education districts in the state, and the simple random sampling technique was used to select 900 students from the selected schools. Participants completed standardised instruments: the Student Attitude Questionnaire (α=0.77), the Teacher Teaching Methods Questionnaire (α=0.92), and the Mathematics Achievement Test (α=0.89). The data collected were analysed using frequency, percentage, Pearson product moment correlation, and multiple regression at α=0.05. The majority of the respondents (75 %) were between 12 and 15 years old, of which 341 were boys and 342 were girls. There is a low positive significant relationship between students’ attitudes and students’ mathematics achievement (r=0.24) and between teachers’ teaching methods and students’ mathematics achievement (r=0.17). The multiple correlation coefficients (R) of all the variables were 0.25. The adjusted R2, which estimates the variance of the dependent variable measured, was 0.06. This implies that all the independent variables students’ attitudes and teachers’ teaching methods—made a 6 % contribution to the variance in students’ achievement in mathematics (F=29.029). It is recommended that students be motivated to have the right attitude towards mathematics and that appropriate teaching methods be employed throughout the teaching-learning process.
Pre-service teacher’s perceptions about the difficult nature of physics as a mathematics embedded course in a college of education
Authors: Fasinu Vojo , Machaba M.F
Published: August 2024

Despite the great importance attached to physics as a core science course that aids the learning of other subjects like mathematics, chemistry, agriculture, biology, computer, geography, and other vocational subjects in high schools to upgrade their knowledge on the physical world, some pre-service teachers still see physics as a very difficult subject that only exist in an abstract form. As a result of this, some pre-service physics teachers find it a challenge when offering or teaching physics as a course in colleges of education and high schools during their teaching practice. The reasons contributing to this is not far from; poor teaching and learning approach, lack of modern practical equipment, and incompetent lecturers among many others. As a result of this, this study finds it necessary to investigate the preserve teachers’ perceptions about the difficult nature of physics as a field of study in a college of education. In achieving this, the study was conducted among some college of education students taking physics as a major or minor field of study in a college of education. And this study was carried out using a quantitative approach of data collection among the 46 students taking physics as a course in a college of education in Nigeria. The result of the finding confirmed that there is a high percentage of the participants taking physics who reported that the teaching process, adopted when learning it, lacks some vital resources, such as motivation, good practical tools, and competent lecturers among many other. As a result of this, some students have taken physics as a difficult subject
Evaluation of fertilizer type and rate of application on tomato fruit quality
Authors: Zingwari Obey A. , Zendera Willard , Masoso Freddy , Mtaita Taurira , Mutetwa Moses
Published: August 2024

Growing vegetables is seen as a promising method for ensuring sustainable food and nutrition security in the tropics. The rise in demand for tomatoes in this region has influenced production practices and strategies to meet local and export needs. Many tropical countries have expanded their tomato cultivation to fulfill local demand and potentially generate income from exports, as they have become increasingly important for food and nutrition security. Various successful production systems have been implemented around the world to grow tomatoes. However, Zimbabwean farmers are experiencing decreased yields and shorter shelf lives of tomatoes due to insufficient use of calcium, despite the pivotal role agrochemicals have played in boosting global agricultural production. This study aimed to assess the impact of different types and levels of basal chemical fertilizers on tomato quality. The three types of basal fertilizers used were Compound D [7:14:7], Gypsum, and a combination of both in equal proportions. These fertilizers were applied at rates of 50, 100, and 200 kg/ha. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications was utilized for the study. Tomato quality parameters such as ripe fruit count, size, disease prevalence, firmness, total soluble solids, weight loss, and shelf-life were measured. The results revealed significant differences (p<0.05) between the application rates and types of basal chemical fertilizers. The combination of Compound D and Gypsum had the most noTable effect, as the addition of calcium and sulfur improved the quality of tomato fruits. Ultimately, it was concluded that the best tomato quality was achieved when using a combination of Compound D and Gypsum at a rate of 200 kg/ha. These findings highlight the urgent need to promote the use of gypsum in tomato production
Differences on the modifying inheritance between the species; Fragaria vesca L. and Fragaria ananassa
Authors: Hasani Lavdi , Mano Romeo
Published: August 2024

By modifying variability, let’s mean that a certain feature of the organism undergoes changes and does not maintain uniformity during its appearance (ie during the transfer of information from the genetic structure to the phenotypic one). In this paper, it is shown how the modifying inheritance is presented in the two types of the strawberry plant, in the one that grows in nature, Fragaria vesca L., and in the one cultivated in greenhouses, Fragaria ananassa. The number of leaf teeth, of these species, has served as the analyzed feature, on which our search for this type of inheritance is based. The paper sheds light on the great role of the environment in elaborating the inheritance of organisms by causing modifying changes in their phenotype in function of the status of the environmental factors in which this organism grows and develops. When these phenotypic modifications manage to become heritable, then it is possible to deal with the action of the epigenetic effect in inheritance. For this reason, studies of modifying inheritance in the phenotype of organisms are necessary. From the comparison of the results obtained, in terms of the modification changes observed between these two species, the null Hypothesis (Ho) is rejected; so, the observed changes have a real basis and are not a random finding. Thus it becomes clear to us that the modifying changes in the inheritance of the plant grown in the natural environment (with significant changes in environmental factors) are greater than those of the species grown in strict conditions – in greenhouses (without large variations in environmental factors). Of course, these changes have an impact on the nutritional and taste values of their fruits, as they affect the nutrient processing laboratory, the leaves
Nutrient intake and digestibility of West Africa Dwarf rams fed basal diet supplemented with multi-nutrient block
Authors: Abdulsalam Sherifdeen , Jinadu Kabiru Babatunde , Adekanbi Oyefunke Abidemi , Abdulkabir Anif Olalekan , Olayide Akingbade Aderemi , Bolatito Adenike Oluronke , Akinwande Adedayo Amos
Published: August 2024

Thirty-five (35) West African Dwarf rams (WAD) with an average weight of 13.60+0.2 kg were used to evaluate nutrient intake and digestibility of WAD rams fed basal diet supplemented with multi-nutrient block in a Completely Randomized Design. Multi-nutrient blocks were compounded containing varying levels of Corn Bran (CB) substituting Molasses (M) with CB 0:M 0 %, CB 10 %; M 20 %, CB 20 %; M 10 %, CB 30 %; M 0 % and CB 0 %: M 30 % as treatments 1,2,3,4 and 5 respectively. The trial lasted for fourteen (14) weeks. After the feeding study, the animals were allotted into metabolic cages for separate feeding, faecal and urine sample collection for digestibility trial of WAD rams. The basal diet fed was (Megathyrsus maximus). Data collected data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results obtained showed that multi-nutrient feed block did not significantly affect nutrient intake (p>0.05). The dry matter intake of the basal diet (Megathyrsus maximus) ranged from 278.81–326.66 g/day and varied significantly across dietary treatments (p<0.05). Multi-nutrient supplementation had a positive significant (p<0.05) effect on all nutrient digestibility parameters. The digestibility of dry matter ranged from 88.94 to 90.44 %, crude protein from 79.92 to 86.26 %, and neutral detergent fiber from 64.42 to 78.57 %. Based on this recent finding, a multi-nutrient feed block supplemented to a basal diet (Megathyrsus maximus) has no significant influence on nutrient intake but has the potential to be utilized to feed ruminants during the dry season for higher feed utilization of WAD rams
In vitro gas fermentation kinetics of compounded diets containing varying levels of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit meal
Authors: Jinadu Kabiru Babatunde , Oluwatosin Omonuwa Bamidele , Oyefunke Adekanbi Abidemi , Abdulkabir Olalekan Anif , Abdulsalam Sherifdeen , Bolatito Adenike Oluronke , Akinwande Amos Adedayo
Published: August 2024

The study investigated in vitro gas fermentation kinetics of compounded diets containing different quantities of Tetrapleura tetraptera (TTFM). Three replicates of each dietary sample (200 mg) were incubated in buffered rumen liquor for 48 hours and the parameters such as in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), organic matter digestibility (OMD), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and methane gas (CH4) were determined using in vitro gas production technique. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze the gathered data. The IVDMD exhibited substantial variation (p<0.05) among treatments. The diet with 1.0 % Tetrapleura tetraptera had the highest in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), which may be useful for effective feed conversion efficiency. The acetate and propionate with total volatile fatty acids raised the inclusion levels of TTFM in the rams' diet by 1.5 to 2.0 %. Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit meal can be added to ruminant diets at a rate of up to 2.0 % to increase daily weight gain, nitrogen utilization, and nutrient digestibility, resulting in better storage of energy
Influence of bovine viral diarrhea virus infections on AI conception and breeding season pregnancy success in vaccinated beef herds
Authors: Epperson Kaitlin M. , Rich Jerica J. J. , Zoca Saulo Menegatti , Perkins Stephanie D. , Northrop Emmalee J. , Daly Russell F. , Walker Julie A. , Rhoades Jim R. , Perry George A.
Published: August 2024

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) causes reproductive and economic losses in cattle. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of BVDV infections on reproductive success in previously vaccinated herds. Vaccinated cows (n=370) and heifers (n=528) from 9 herds were synchronized and artificially inseminated (AI). On d 28 following insemination, blood samples were collected and pregnancy status was determined. Non-pregnant animals were resynchronized and inseminated a second time. Blood samples were tested for the presence of BVDV antigen. Animals that tested positive were considered infected with BVDV. Herds with at least 1 positive animal were determined to be BVDVinfected (n=4 infected, n=5 non-infected). Statistical analyses were performed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with herd as a random variable. Herds with BVDV infections at d 28 had significantly decreased (P < 0.01) AI conception rates compared to non-infected herds (34 ± 2.3% vs 56 ± 2.3%). Breeding season pregnancy rates were also decreased (P < 0.01) in BVDV-infected herds compared to non-infected herds (68 ± 3.1% vs 88 ± 6.9%). In conclusion, BVDV infections in previously vaccinated herds had a negative impact on AI conception rates and breeding season pregnancy success.
Progesterone release and incidence of bacteria following disinfection and reuse of controlled internal drug release devices (CIDRs)
Authors: Talsma B. , Fields B. J. , Vincent K. L. , Smith W. B. , Speshock J. L. , Waddell J. , Snyder D. , Dias N. W. , Mercadante V. R. G. , Jones T. , Roper D. A.
Published: August 2024

Controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices have been reused in cattle estrous synchronization protocols. However, the effectiveness of the CIDR and incidence of vaginal bacteria secondary to reuse remains unclear. Therefore, 2 experiments were conducted to evaluate plasma progesterone and vaginal bacteria utilizing used CIDRs disinfected prior to reuse. In Exp. 1, cows received a new CIDR (CONT) or a used CIDR disinfected by 1 of 3 methods: autoclaved (AUTO), dishwasher (DISH), or chlorhexidine (CHLO). No difference was detected in plasma progesterone (P = 0.24) concentration between treatment groups. Daily progesterone concentrations differed during CIDR treatment (P < 0.001) on d 0, 3, and 7. In Exp. 2, vaginal mucous samples were collected pre- and post-synchronization. Cows received CONT, AUTO, or CHLO treated CIDRs. Bacterial loads in vaginal mucus cultured on TSA blood agar did not differ by treatment (P = 0.29) nor by day (P = 0.69). CHLO-treated CIDRs had higher bacterial gram-negative colony counts than those disinfected with AUTO or CONT (P = 0.0035), and bacterial load was higher on d 7 than d 0 (P = 0.0025) for vaginal mucous samples cultured on EMB agar. Based on the results of these studies, twice-used treated CIDRs do not reduce progesterone plasma concentrations, however, risk of bacterial contamination of the vagina must be considered.
Efficacy of a modified-live IBR-BVD-PI3-BRSV-Mannheimia haemolytica toxoid vaccine against challenge with virulent BHV-1 and PI3 viruses in calves 60 days of age
Authors: Masic Aleksandar , Mahan Suman , Sobecki Brian , Brice Chadwick , Mattern Sally , Peterson Dennis , Barret Peter , Daugherty Colt , Meinert Todd , Ignacio Correas , Véronique Moulin
Published: August 2024

Efficacy of attenuated (att) bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BHV-1) and bovine parainfluenza type-3 (PI3) viruses as antigen fractions in a modified-live virus (MLV) multivalent vaccine was evaluated following single, subcutaneous (SC) administration and intranasal (IN) challenge 28 days after vaccination, with either virulent BHV-1 or PI3 viruses in young calves. A total of 80 seronegative calves, 50 to 63 days of age at the time of vaccination, were used in 2 separate studies with 40 animals per study. Calves were allocated to 2 treatment groups with 20 animals per group which received either a single dose of a MLV IBR-BVD-PI3-BRSV vaccine, Mannheimia haemolytica toxoid, or corresponding placebo formulation without targeted test antigen fractions attBHV-1 (Study 1) or attPI3 (Study 2). Incidence and duration of clinical signs associated with respiratory disease, rectal temperatures, virus shedding, and serologic responses were compared between treatment groups in each study to assess vaccine efficacy. The 5-way vaccine induced significantly higher (p<0.0001) virus neutralizing antibody responses and reduction in fever (p<0.0001), mean rectal temperatures, and lower incidence or shorter duration of clinical disease related to BHV-1 and PI3 infection than placebo-treated calves. Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) disease, hallmark of BHV-1 infection, was observed in 95% of control calves and in only 10% of vaccinates. Vaccinated animals in Study 1 and Study 2 demonstrated a 98.8 and 98.9% reduction in virus shedding, respectively, and significantly (p<0.0001) shorter duration of virus shedding compared to control calves, demonstrating protective vaccine efficacy.
Bovine Practitioner Vol. 47, No. 1 (Spring 2013). Front Matter
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: August 2024

Description of the 45th American Association of Bovine Practitioners Conference, 2012.
Bovine Practitioner Vol. 44, No. 2 (2010 Summer). Front matter
Authors: American Association of Bovine Practioners
Published: August 2024

Cover, masthead, table of contents, and other editorial information.
Bovine Practitioner Vol. 48, No. 2 (2014 Summer). Front matter
Authors: American Association of Bovine Practioners
Published: August 2024

Cover, masthead, table of contents, and other editorial information.
Bovine Practitioner Vol. 49, No. 1 (2015 Spring). Front matter
Authors: American Association of Bovine Practioners
Published: August 2024

Cover, masthead, table of contents, and other editorial information.
Index of Publications. The Bovine Practitioner 1980-1984 / Proceedings of the Annual Meetings 1980-1984
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: August 2024

Author and Subject indexes for the Bovine Practitioner and the Proceedings of the Annual Meetings, 1980-1984.
Bovine Practitioner Vol. 52, No. 2 (Summer 2018). Front matter
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: August 2024

Cover, Masthead, Table of Contents, and other editorial information.
Bovine Practitioner Vol. 51, No. 2 (Summer 2017). Front matter
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: August 2024

Cover, masthead, table of contents, and other editorial information.
Bovine Practitioner Vol. 57, No. 1 (2023). Front Matter
Authors: Gingrich II K. Fred
Published: August 2024

Cover, Masthead, Table of Contents, Advertisements and other editorial information.
Case series: Surgical success and reproductive performance after correction of penile deviations in 10 bulls
Authors: Mossallam Ahmed F. , Schumaker Owen J. , Mulon Pierre-Yves , Dohlman Tyler M. , Meisner Matt D. , Jarrin-Yepez Pablo , Anderson David E. , Rush Jessica B. , Prado Tulio M. , Armstrong Chance L. , Klabnik Jessica L.
Published: August 2024

Information regarding expected outcomes such as surgical complications and successful return to natural service after surgery to correct penile deviation of bulls is limited. There­fore, when examining a bull with a penile deviation, mak­ing evidence-based recommendations and managing client expectations for return to function is difficult for veterinar­ians. The objective of the study reported here is to provide documented outcomes of return to reproductive performance for bulls following surgery to correct penile deviation. Medi­cal records at 4 teaching hospitals from 2008 to 2022 were re­viewed. Surgical and reproductive outcomes of impotent bulls that underwent surgery to correct spiral or ventral deviation by either fascia graft or synthetic mesh were evaluated. Only 10 cases, from 3 teaching hospitals, had sufficient follow-up information regarding outcome after surgery to be evaluated. None of the bulls experienced surgical complications (e.g., infection, dehiscence, etc.). Surgery sufficiently corrected the deviation to achieve intromission in 6 of the 10 bulls. Five of these 6 bulls sired progeny. Overall, surgical correction of penile deviation in bulls appears to have a low risk for compli­cations, but the success of surgery in returning the bull to re­productive soundness is inconsistent, as only 5 of the 10 total cases sired progeny via natural service.
Volume 58 No 1 Front Matter
Authors: Gingrich II K. Fred
Published: August 2024

Front matter and table of contents.
comparison of two multivalent modified live viral/bacterial combination vaccines in feedlot calves at ultra-high risk of developing undifferentiated fever/bovine respiratory disease
Authors: Hunsaker Breck D. , McMullen Christopher A. , Stamm Courtney G. , Perrett Tye , Hannon Sherry J. , Bryant Lonty K. , Booker Calvin W.
Published: August 2024

Vaccine 1 (VAC1 group) and Vaccine 2 (VAC2 group) are com­mercially available vaccines labeled for the control of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in beef cattle. There are limited data from large-scale commercial feedlot trials comparing VAC1 and VAC2 arrival processing vaccination pro­grams. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relative effects of VAC1 and VAC2 arrival processing vacci­nation programs on animal health, feedlot performance and carcass characteristic outcomes in feedlot calves at ultra-high risk of developing undifferentiated fever/BRD under large-scale commercial production conditions. Animals were randomly allocated at feedlot arrival to 1 of 2 experimental groups: VAC1 or VAC2.  Animals in the VAC1 group (6 multi-pen lots; 3,001 animals) received a bovine rhinotracheitis-virus diarrhea-parainfluenza 3-respiratory syncytial virus-Mannheimia hae­molytica-Pasteurella multocida vaccine per animal once at allocation. Animals in the VAC2 group (6 multi-pen lots; 3,005 animals) received a bovine rhinotracheitis-virus diarrhea-parainfluenza 3-respiratory syncytial virus vaccine with a Mannheimia haemolytica toxoid per animal once at allocation. Vaccines differed regarding viral strains, bacterial protection, means for providing bacterial immunity, and adjuvant use. Animals were housed by experi­mental group in commercial feedlot pens and followed from allocation until slaughter. Although histophilosis mortality was higher in the VAC1 group compared to the VAC2 group (P = 0.040), no statistical differences were detected in overall mor­tality or any of the other outcome variables (P ≥ 0.050). The relative cost effectiveness of each arrival processing vaccina­tion program in the study population is therefore dependent on relative program cost.
Distribution trends of bovine Anaplasma marginale in Iowa, based upon veterinary diagnostic lab submissions from 2017-2022
Authors: Geoffroy Lynne M. , Brinning-Henningsen McKenna N. , Silva Ana Paula P. , Hindman Megan S. , Engelken Terry J.
Published: August 2024

Anaplasma marginale is the common etiological agent of bovine anaplasmosis. Infection results in erythrocyte de­struction leading to the clinical signs of anemia, hypoxia, abortion, jaundice and sudden death. Cattle that survive this acute phase or have lower levels of initial bacteremia become chronic, persistent carriers. Carrier animals serve as reser­voirs for the organism and allow infection to spread via me­chanical or biological vectors, to susceptible herdmates. The objective of this study was to report the distribution trends of A. marginale positive test results during a 5-year period in Iowa. This study evaluated Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab (ISU VDL) testing results from bovine cases submitted from January 1, 2017 to January 1, 2022, for molecu­lar and serological detection of all stages of anaplasmosis. Cattle residing in Iowa with positive results for PCR or com­petitive ELISA were included in the analysis. The state was divided into 4 geographical districts (1 = northeast, 2 = south­east, 3 = southwest, and 4 = northwest) and the number of pos­itive tests in each district was determined. Total positive tests by district included: northeast 282; southeast 277; southwest 223; northwest 281. Disease spatial analysis mapping, based upon geographic longitude and latitude location of herds with positive diagnostic tests, illustrate progressive disease expan­sion from the southern counties of Iowa, near the Missouri border, into the northern parts of Iowa. These results suggest that A. marginale has developed a widespread distribution across the state of Iowa.
Percepção dos Agentes de Governança de Cooperativas de Crédito sobre Mecanismos de Governança, Princípios e Valores do Cooperativismo e Sustentabilidade
Authors: Cunha Paulo Roberto da , Kraus Camila Belli , Adam Camila , Dal Magro Cristian Baú
Published: August 2024

O objetivo do estudo é analisar a percepção dos agentes de governança de cooperativas de crédito sobre os mecanismos de governança, princípios e valores do cooperativismo e sustentabilidade. O estudo foi aplicado com 41 agentes de governança de uma cooperativa de crédito da região Sul do Brasil. Para a análise dos dados, empregou-se a Estatística Descritiva e a Análise de Consenso, a partir do software Microsoft Excel®. Os resultados indicam que de forma geral, os agentes de governança apresentam consenso em relação aos mecanismos de governança, princípios e valores do cooperativismo e sustentabilidade econômica, social e ambiental das cooperativas de crédito. Assim, há indícios de que os agentes de governança percebem que as cooperativas de crédito adotam as diretrizes de boas práticas de governança preconizadas pelo Banco Central do Brasil, aplicam os princípios e valores do cooperativismo e fazem uso de práticas que preconizam a sustentabilidade econômica, social e ambiental. O estudo contribui ao ampliar as discussões sobre os mecanismos de governança corporativa relacionados com os princípios e valores cooperativos e a sustentabilidade. Além disso, a partir da investigação é possível traçar um entendimento mais específico das cooperativas quanto os tópicos investigados, possibilitando a formulação de sugestões de melhoria e avanços nas ações de cooperativas de crédito com perfil semelhante ao investigado.