bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal patterns of nickel transfer from soil to rice in terraced paddy fields affected by serpentinite
Authors: Harada Nodoka , Nakao Atsushi , Matsuo Eika , Tomita Hodaka , Masumura Takehiro , Nishikiori Tatsuhiro , Yanai Junta
Published: March 2023

Nickel (Ni) is an essential micronutrient for plants although it is considered toxic when present in excess in the soil. This study investigated the transfer of Ni from the soil to rice in terraced paddy fields affected by serpentinite, which contains an anomalously higher Ni content compared with other geological materials. Soils, soil solutions, and rice plants were collected at several different growing stages from three adjacent terraced paddy fields subject to the same water and fertilizer management. Temporal changes in their elemental compositions revealed that a higher concentration of Ni was dissolved in the soil solution during flooded conditions, probably due to the co-solubilization with Mn oxides under low redox potential conditions. However, rice accumulated Ni at a higher rate during the drainage period than in the flooding period. Although the Ni concentration in the soil solution was lowest in the drainage period, the relative concentration to Fe (i.e., Ni/Fe ratio) was much higher than that in flooded conditions. These relationships suggest that a potential measure to counter the transfer of Ni from the soil to rice in serpentine-affected paddy fields is to increase Fe phytoavailability during the drainage period.
Impact of land tenure security through customary law on agricultural productivity in Burkina Faso: Propensity score matching approaches
Authors: NOUFE Tiatité
Published: March 2023

Land tenure security plays an important role in agricultural production systems. The objective of this paper is to empirically assess the impact of land tenure security through customary law on agricultural productivity in Burkina Faso. We use panel data of 15,627 agricultural households over the period 2019–2021. Four propensity score matching methods are used: the nearest neighbor method, the stratification method, the radius method and the kernel method. The instrumental variables technique was used to control for endogeneity. Overall, the results indicate that household land security improves agricultural productivity. The minimum gain in agricultural productivity is estimated to be 50,030 FCFA per agricultural asset per season for households with customary land tenure. In terms of economic policy implications, the results call on the authorities in charge of conducting agricultural policies to promote comprehensive land policies by adapting them to local contexts through the recognition of customary institutions for rural land management.
JEL Classification: Q12, Q15, K11
Digital Pulse Compression: Linear Frequency Modulation Approach
Authors: P Mallikarjuna Gowda C. , Siddesh G K , Anu H , Chaithanya S , Gill Rana , Khan M. Ijaz , Eldin Sayed M
Published: March 2023

In radar system a challenging task is to achieve a good range resolution with a shorter pulse which needs more peak power. High peak power makes the design of transceivers complex because the devices used to build transceivers are able to withstand with high peak power. In literature pulse compression method is widely used to minimize the problem of using high peak power signal. In this paper, the problem of generating a high peak power signal with shorter duration, which is used to detect only moving targets has been addressed by proposing a novel radar pulse compression method using Linear Frequency Modulation with improved range resolution with a basic construction of a pulse processor which is analogous to a standard matched filter, and is reformed to suit an application. Multiple code types and lengths needed are used due to the flexibility in the design which reduce an uncertainties affected by the use of high pulse repetition frequencies.
HNRNPA2B1-mediated m6A modification of lncRNA MEG3 facilitates tumorigenesis and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating miR-21-5p/PTEN axis
Authors: Li Ke , Gong Quan , Xiang Xu-Dong , Guo Gang , Liu Jia , Zhao Li , Li Jun , Chen Nan , Li Heng , Zhang Li-Juan , Zhou Chun-Yan , Wang Zhi-Yong , Zhuang Li
Published: March 2023

Background
Increasing data imply that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2B1 (HNRNPA2B1) as a nuclear N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader acts crucial roles in cancer progression. However, the role and underlying mechanism by which HNRNPA2B1-mediated m6A modification of lncRNA contributes to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain undocumented.
Methods
The association of HNRNPA2B1 expression with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis in patients with NSCLC was determined by qRT-PCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry and public datasets. The role of HNRNPA2B1 in NSCLC cells was assessed by the in vitro experiments and in vivo tumorigenesis and metastasis models. The m6A-lncRNA epi-transcriptomic microarray was employed to screen HNRNPA2B1-mediated m6A modification of lncRNAs, which were verified by methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (Me-RIP), RT-qPCR and rescue experiments in NSCLC cells. lncRNA MEG3-specific binding with miR-21-5p was validated by luciferase gene report and RIP assays. The effects of HNRNPA2B1 and (or) lncRNA MEG3 on miR-21-5p/PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling were examined by RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses.
Results
We found that upregulation of HNRNPA2B1 was associated with distant metastasis and represented an independent prognostic factor for poor survival in patients with NSCLC. Knockdown of HNRNPA2B1 impaired cell proliferation and metastasis of NSCLC cells in vitro and in vivo, whereas ectopic expression of HNRNPA2B1 possessed the opposite effects. Mechanical investigations revealed that lncRNA MEG3 was identified as an m6A target of HNRNPA2B1 and inhibition of HNRNPA2B1 decreased the m6A level of lncRNA MEG3 but increased its expression levels. Furthermore, lncRNA MEG3 acted as a sponge of miR-21-5p, and knockdown of lncRNA MEG3 attenuated sh-HNRNPA2B1-caused inhibitory effects on cell colony formation and invasion. Elevated expression of miR-21-5p indicated poor survival in patients with NSCLC and inhibition of miR-21-5p counteracted si-MEG3-induced PTEN downregulation and PI3K/AKT signaling activation in NSCLC cells.
Conclusions
Our findings uncover that HNRNPA2B1-mediated m6A modification of lncRNA MEG3 promotes tumorigenesis and metastasis of NSCLC cells by regulating miR-21-5p/PTEN axis.
Improving Efficiency and Reducing Costs in Robotic Surgery: A Lean Six Sigma Approach to Optimize Turnover Time
Authors: Sanchez Alexis , Herrera Luis , Teixeira Andre , Cheatham Michael , Gibson Desren , Lam Victoria , Guevara Oriana
Published: March 2023

Operating room (OR) turnover time (TOT) is the time it takes to prepare an OR for the next surgery after the previous one has been completed. Reducing OR TOT can improve the efficiency of the OR, reduce costs and improve surgeons’ and patients’ satisfaction. To evaluate the effectiveness of an Operating Room (OR) Turnover Time (TOT) reduction initiative using the Lean Six Sigma methodology (DMAIC) in the bariatric and thoracic service lines. Performance improvement strategies consisted on simplifying steps (surgical tray optimization) and concurrent steps (parallel task execution). We compared two non-consecutive months (pre-implementation and post-implementation). A paired t-test was used to assess whether the difference in the measurements was statistically significant. The study found that TOT was reduced by 15.6% from an average of 35.6 minutes with a standard deviation of 8.1 to an average of 30.09 minutes with a standard deviation of 9.7 (p < 0.05). Specifically, in the bariatric service line, TOT was reduced by 17.15% and in the thoracic service line, TOT was reduced by 9.6%. No adverse events related to the initiative were reported. The results of this study indicate that the TOT reduction initiative was effective in reducing TOT. The efficient use of operating rooms is crucial in hospital management, as it not only impacts finances but also affects the satisfaction of surgical teams and patients. This study shows the effectiveness of Lean Six Sigma methodology in reducing TOT and improving the efficiency in the OR.
Depolymerization of PET wastes catalysed by Sn and Ag doped ZnO nanoparticles and evaluation of Embryonic Toxicity using Zebrafish
Authors: Vinitha V. , Anbarasu M. , Priya P. , Preeyanghaa M. , Neppolian B. , Prathap Lavanya , Sundaram K. Meenakshi , Sivamurugan V.
Published: March 2023

The present investigation focused on the catalytic evaluation of Sn and Ag doped ZnO for depolymerization of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyester wastes and embryotoxic evaluation of the doped ZnO nanoparticles using Zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo model. Bimetallic ZnO NPs doped at 1 and 2 mol% of Sn and Ag synthesized by sol-gel method and characterized by XRD, UV-Vis, FT-IR, SEM-EDS and TEM. Diffraction studies confirmed doped ZnOs retained wurtzite structure as pristine ZnO. However, the electronic spectra showed that the optical bandgap reduced from 3.31 to 3.20 eV upon 2 mol% Sn and Ag doping. SEM-EDS study confirmed elemental composition of Ag and Sn doped ZnO as well as average crystallite size of 60–70 and 115–125 nm for 1 and 2 mol% doped ZnO NPs. Glycolytic and aminolytic depolymerization of PET wastes afforded 90% of bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) and 95% of bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalamide (BHETA) respectively catalysed by 2mol% Sn and Ag doped ZnO nanoparticles. The Sn doped ZnO NPs showed comparatively higher mortality than Ag doped ZnO without any developing deformity in zebrafish embryos.
Impact of COVID-19 on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training and Practice: A Worldwide Survey
Authors: DO Chris Moriarty , Monfared Sina Hassan Beygi , Wason Shaun E. L.
Published: March 2023

PURPOSE
Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ), a grappling-based martial art, has faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic primarily due to universal masking and social distancing. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on BJJ academies and owner implementation of risk-mitigation strategies during the early phase of the pandemic. We then explored the association between cultural, demographic, academy-specific variables, and owners’ attitudes to the implementation of risk-mitigation strategies.
METHODS
After IRB approval, we surveyed BJJ practitioners using a 35-question online survey distributed electronically between June-August 2020.
RESULTS
183 (66%) respondents who owned their gym completed the survey. All academies closed (n = 183,100%) and most academy closures were self-imposed (n = 104,57%). Most academies implemented sanitation (n = 169,92%) or exposure non-training-related change (n = 166,91%). There was no association among sociodemographic variables, owners' attitudes regarding the seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic, and implementation of risk-mitigation strategies.
CONCLUSIONS
To our knowledge, this is the first study examining the short-term effect of COVID-19 on BJJ training and implementation of risk-mitigation strategies. All respondents closed their academies during the pandemic, and most respondents reported changes to their sanitation, exposure, and screening practice. The long-term effects of COVID-19 on the sport remains largely unknown.
Women’s satisfaction and body image long-term after risk-reducing mastectomy – the partners’ perspective
Authors: Bai Lucy , Arver Brita , Johansson Hemming , Wickman Marie , Sandelin Kerstin , Brandberg Yvonne
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To investigate partners’ perception of women’s perception regarding long-term psychological outcomes after risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM) and immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) by investigating their perception of the women’s long-term evaluation regarding satisfaction with aesthetic outcome, body image, and sexuality, and to compare partners’ and women’s levels of anxiety/depressive symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

Partners responded to the same questionnaires as the women without modifications. The partners responded to HAD and SF-36 from their own perspective, and the remaining questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-BRR26, BIS, and SAQ) from their perception of how the women would have responded. The responses of the partners were compared with the responses of the women, as well as with the HRQoL of the normative Swedish population.

Results

Thirty-six (60%) partners participated. The partners’ perception of the women’s satisfaction with the aesthetic outcome was lower compared with the women’s own perceptions (p<0.05). Partners’ perception of women’s perceived level of body image problems was higher than the women’s response (p<0.05). There was an agreement in the perception of the sexuality-related questions. Partners and women had in general higher levels of HRQoL compared with the age-standardised normative Swedish population.

Conclusion

This study, albeit small, showed that partners overestimated women’s dissatisfaction with long-term aesthetic outcome and body image, while there were no discrepancies between the two groups regarding aspects of sexuality. Both groups demonstrated high levels of HRQoL long-term after RRM and IBR. RRM is a personal choice, but knowledge about long-term effects involve both women and their partners.
Referral rate, profile and degree of control of patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. Data from a single lipid unit from a Mediterranean area
Authors: SERRA-PLANAS Enric
Published: March 2023

Background
The challenging rigorous management of hypercholesterolemia promotes referral to specialized units. This study explored the need, based on referral rate and cardiovascular (CV) risk factors control in patients evaluated for familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), for a lipid unit (LU).
Methods
Of a 4-year period, 340 referrals to our unit were analysed to establish lipid disorders referral rate. Moreover, 118 patients referred for potential FH during the period 2010–2018 (52.4 ± 13.9 years, 47.5% male, Caucasian, 25.4% obese, 33.1% smokers and 51.6% with some glycaemic alteration) were investigated. The Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) score, type and dose of lipid-lowering drugs, lipid profile including lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) and the presence of plaques with carotid ultrasound (CU) were recorded.
Results
Lipids represented 6.2% of referrals (38 patient-years) requiring a 2–3 hour weekly monographic outpatient consultation. Potencial FH sample displayed DLCN score ≥ 6 in 78% and modifiable CV risk factors in 51%. Only 22% achieved tight disease control despite intensive treatment. Statin-ezetimibe combination treatment group achieved better goal (73.0% vs. 45.5%, p = 0.003) and rosuvastatin group higher proportion of prediabetes (60.9% vs. 39.1%, p = 0.037). Neither CU nor Lp(a) positivity linked with established CV disease patients but higher Lp(a) concentrations were detected between them (102.5 (26.3–145.8) vs. 25.0 (13.0–52.0), p = 0.012).
Conclusions
Referral rate, degree of control, and proportion of modifiable CV risk factors in FH patients demonstrate the need for a LU in our area as well as changes in treatment and management.
Influence of Gas Pressure on the Magnetized Plasma Parameters of Laser-Induced Breakdown
Authors: Abbas Zahraa Marid , Abbas Qusay Adnan
Published: March 2023

In this study, the effect of environment gas and working pressure of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) from ZnO: Al composite target (AZO) enhanced by an external magnetic field on the magnetized characteristics and emission spectra of plasma were investigated. The plasma was induced by a Q-switched nanosecond Nd: YAG laser at a constant pulse laser energy of 300 mJ at different pressures of 0.08, 0.2, 0.4, and 760 Torr in air and argon gas. The atomic and ionic emission lines increased in intensity directly with the working pressure. The plasma temperature (Te) and electron number density (ne) were determined at the different environmental conditions according to Boltzmann-Plot, and Stark broadening effect, respectively. The ne increased with increasing pressure as a result of increasing electron-atom collisions. While Te reduced with working pressure. The plasma parameters in different conditions satisfied the plasma criteria. The line profile appeared with high broadening at atmospheric pressure compared with vacuumed plasma. The Larmur radius reduced while the confinement factor β increased with working pressure. From another hand, using Ar instead of air caused to slightly reduced in ne at low pressure of 0.08 Torr, and slightly increased at 0.4 Torr pressure. While the Te has the opposite behavior. Due to the evidence variation of plasma number density with pressure, the plasma frequency values increased with increasing the pressure, with higher values in Ar than air at 0.4 Torr, while slightly lower in Ar than air at 0.08 Torr. λD and Nd have opposite behavior with working pressure.
Smartphone-based colourimetric detection of analytes after pre-concentration onto a hectorite clay-hydroxyethylcellulose hybrid
Authors: Mazarakis Anastasios Phoebus , Tsotsou Georgia Eleni
Published: March 2023

This paper describes a new, smartphone-enabled quantitative analysis format, based on analyte pre-concentration by adsorption onto Bentone LT. Bentone LT pellet isolation comes after adsorption, followed by in-situ application of an analyte-selective chromogenic reaction. Resulting pellet colouration is captured by the phone’s integrated camera and assessed using the free open-source image processing software, ImageJ. Responses are calibrated and quantified. We here demonstrate the extended applicability of the proposed methodology for the smartphone-based quantification of specific model analytes. The smartphone-based assay is reliable in quantifying model analytes, alone or in mixture, from dilute aqueous solutions and depicts accurately the adsorption behaviour followed photometrically in solution. Its quantification capability was found to extend below that of the respective chromogenic reaction in solution. It is likely that the applicability of the proposed quantitative analysis format extends to other analytes where analyte-specific colour formation is feasible.
Diversity and use of Sago (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) from Meranti Islands as Road Reinforcement
Authors: Dinata Marta , Putri Lusi Dwi , Soehardi Fitridawati
Published: March 2023

Sago (Metroxylon sagu) processing in Meranti Islands Regency is currently still conventional and only produces semi-finished materials in the form of sago starch, so it is important to recognize other potentials of this sago through its anatomical characteristics, lignin, and cellulose content. The anatomical features of fiber dimensions were observed by making maceration preparations using the Schultze method. The obtained wood anatomy data were analyzed descriptively and presented in tables, figures, and photographs. SNI 14-0492-1989 is used to determine lignin content, and SNI 14-0444-1989 is used to determine cellulose content. Especially for road reinforcement, which has a high potential. The results obtained by the two types of sago in Meranti Islands Regency, Riau Province include class II fiber and lignin content (23.14% and 22.14%), as well as cellulose content (44.12% and 42.4%), and have the potential to be used as reinforcement on road subgrades. According to the findings of this study, sago bark waste has a high potential for processing in the industrial sector, particularly for road reinforcement, which has a high potential.
Payment Subsidy and Equity in Access to Health Care: The Case of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Tshituka Kasumbi
Published: March 2023

Since the 2000s, the Democratic Republic of Congo has adopted national policies to phase out direct payment at the point of service to make health care more accessible. The objective of this study is to measure inequalities in access and financing of a subsidised health system. The measurement of inequalities in access and financing was applied to data from the Improved Monitoring for Action (N = 475 households in the Tshilenge health zone, East Kasai province, Democratic Republic of Congo), which is part of the evaluation of the performance of the health system through high-impact interventions for maternal, newborn and child health. The concentration curve and index (CI) method was used to assess the degree of inequality in the distribution of health care consumption and expenditures. A negative CI indicates a disproportionate concentration of subsidies among the poor, while a positive CI indicates that the subsidy is favourable to the rich; a CI of zero indicates perfect equity. In addition, the Kakwani Progressivity Index (KPI) was used to assess the progressivity of direct household spending on care. A positive value of the KPI indicates the progressivity of the system and a negative value its degressivity. The indices of concentration of use are respectively 0.034 for self-medication and -0.050 for use of a health facility, and the indices of standardised use are 0.00 in both cases. Comparison of the standardised and non-standardised concentration of use curves shows that standardisation reduces the differences between quintiles: there is horizontal equity of use after indirect standardisation. All Lorenz curves are below the standard of the living curve (the KPIs are significantly negative). Health expenditure is therefore all-regressive. The measurement of the degree of equity showed that there is imperfect equity in the use of care and that the system of financing care is inequitable and regressive. Direct household spending increases inequities in access. The contribution is greater for the lowest income groups. The low budget of the health sector prohibits universality and free access to services by producing a recourse to self-medication and renunciation of care.
Evaluation of Oxyfluorfen Formulations for Cabbage Weed Control
Authors: Grabowski J. M. , Hopen H. J.
Published: March 2023

Oxyfluorfen exhibited intraspecific selectivity among cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var capitata) cultivars. The wettable powder (WP) and granular (G) formulations were less toxic to cabbage plants than the emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulation when applied at 0.56 kg ai/ha. Susceptibility to oxyfluorfen injury decreased with plant age. Plants treated with 0.56 kg ai/ha of the WP formulation at the 2-leaf growth stage showed greater injury than plants treated at the 6–8 leaf stage. Oxyfluorfen injury symptoms from an application of 0.28 kg ai/ha EC formulation were increased when plants were treated previously with 1.12 kg ai/ha EPTC. Selectivity may be provided by cuticular wax on the cabbage leaves which prevents spray retention and penetration. Cultivars with increased cuticular wax showed reduced injury from oxyfluorfen application.
Seasonal Osmotic Relations in Apple Leaves of Different Ages
Authors: Lakso A. N. , Geyer A. S. , Carpenter S. G.
Published: March 2023

Seasonal changes in the relationship between leaf conductance and total water potential in mature apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) shoot leaves were found to be mediated by osmotic adjustment, not changes in the total water potential–relative water content relationship. Leaves at the growing shoot tip were found to have a much higher (1.0 to 2.0 MPa) osmotic potential than mature leaves and showed no seasonal osmotic adjustment, while mature, fully expanded leaves on the same shoots did adjust osmotically. Leaf osmotic potentials differed little among exposed leaves on a shoot once fully expanded.
Effects of the Combined Contraceptive Vaginal Ring on Female Sexual Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors:   Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, Abdollahpour Sedigheh , Ashrafizaveh Akram ,   Department of Midwifery, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran, Azmoude Elham ,   Department of Midwifery, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
Published: March 2023

There are controversial debates regarding the effects of contraceptive vaginal ring devices on females’ sexual function. Therefore, the meta-analysis of before-after was conducted on the intervention studies published in the past years to clarify these contradictions. The existing literature on the subject was reviewed by searching through such databases as PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Sciences, Embase, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar up to July 2021. Before-after intervention studies that had examined the effect of vaginal rings on females’ sexual function were collected as well. In total, five studies with 369 participants were included in quantitative syntheses. Pooled results from the random-effect model showed that NuvaRing had a positive effect on females’ sexual function three months after insertion (WMD: 2.48; 95% CI: 0.30, 4.67; P = 0.026); however, this effect was not significant after 6 months (WMD: 4.38; 95% CI: −4.95, 13.72; P = 0.357). Meta-regression analysis suggested that the effect of this device is associated with users’ age and body mass index 3 months after insertion. No publication bias was found by Egger’s test or funnel plots. Overall, the results of this meta-analysis support the view that vaginal ring use is associated with a positive effect on the sexual function of women 3 months after insertion, while the effect of this device on the sexual function of women was insignificant after 6 months. However, given the dearth of available data, it is not possible to reach a definite conclusion on the effect of vaginal rings on females’ sexual function.
Treatment of Bacterial Pneumonia in Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Hjerpe C. A.
Published: March 2023

Pneumonia associated with Pasteurella bacteria is widely acknowledged to be the most important dis-ease of feedlot cattle. In a 13,000-head capacity feedlot in Davis area, uncomplicated bacterial pneumonias were responsible for 42.5% of all deaths over an 18-month period (Table 1). In addition, secondary bacterial pneumonias were a contributing factor in many deaths attributed to infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, bovine viral diarrhea, salmonellosis, cellulitis, paresis and polyarthritis during this same period. Efforts to control these losses were hampered by inadequate information concerning antimicrobic therapy. Consequently, a study of the relationships between the bacteria associated with feedlot pneumonia and the antibiotics used in treatment was initiated. It was hoped that improved knowledge concerning these relationships might permit more precise therapeutic management of the disease. Initial work included microbiologic examination of the pneumonic lesions from 500 lungs. Significant bacterial flora consisted mainly of Pasteurella hemolytica, P. multocida and Corynebacterium pyogenes, alone or in various combinations (Tables 2 and 3). Other bacteria were isolated infrequently. C. pyogenes was isolated infrequently except from chronic lesions (Table 4).
Procedure Decisions in Bovine Dystocia
Authors: Armstrong K. R. , Janzen E. D. , Adams W. M.
Published: March 2023

The mechanics of relieving dystocia are well described in the veterinary texts (1,2,3,4). In our opinion, the procedure decisions are not clearly presented. I hope to stimulate some response from you experienced practitioners to give your guidelines for decisions in bovine dystocia. I would like to stress I do not believe our way is the only way to make these decisions. I would like to emphasize if a practitioner is not capable in the management of dystocia, he is not likely to be a successful bovine practitioner because dystocia is about 20-25% of the caseload of bovine practice.
Haemophilus somnus in Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Herrick John B.
Published: March 2023

Haemophilus somnus has repeatedly been reported as an important part of the BRD complex, as well as being incriminated in a general septicemia manifesting itself in laminitis, pleuritis, vascular endothrombosis, enteritis and nephritis. The disease was first described by Colorado researchers in 1956 as infectious thromboembolic meningoencephalitis (TEME). This particular form of the disease is manifested not only in feedlot cattle but in dairy and beef herds. The research that occurred in the isolation and identification of H. somnus as a primary pathogen in cattle and the production of an effective immumzmg agent is considered one of the major breakthroughs in preventing the bovine respiratory disease complex.
Current Observations On The Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex In High Plains Feedyards
Authors: Brown L. N.
Published: March 2023

The bovine respiratory disease (BRO) complex is more complex than an elephant. Just as the blind men gave diverse descriptions of the elephant, comments concerning BRO will certainly vary according to the bias of the observer. The following biased report comes from a laboratory diagnostician, and is an overview of BRO episodes as they have occurred in the custom cattle feeding industry of the High Plains during recent years.
Goal-Oriented Approach to Herd Health and Production Control
Authors: Braun R. K. , Noordhuizen J. P. T. M. , Donovan G. A. , Brand A.
Published: March 2023

This paper presents practical guidelines for replacement rearing, udder health and milk quality, reproduction and nutrition. These guidelines should expedite:- cooperation with the dairyman in identifying his / her objectives;- establishing guidelines for reaching these objectives;- evaluating and analyzing animal and farm data in relation to these objectives.The ultimate objective of a H H and PC program is to improve farm income by utilizing highly technical skills, advising, evaluating and analyzing actual and accurate records and to implement these programs in a cost-effective way.
Normal Uterine Physiology and Involution
Authors: Thatcher William W. , Guilbault Louis A. , Drost Maarten
Published: March 2023

A 12 to a 13 month calving interval should be the goal of dairymen and veterinary practitioners who want tomaximize both breeding and milk production efficiency. The objective of this presentation is to describespecifically the normal physiology and involution of thepostpartum uterus in dairy cows.
Importance of Body Condition Scoring in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Braun R. K. , Donovan G. A. , Tran T. Q. , Mohammed H. O. , Webb D. W.
Published: March 2023

It is doubtful that many of today's dairy herds, fed rations balanced to NRC standards, experience reproductive problems solely because of nutrition. Nutrients and how their deficiencies and excesses affect reproduction have been reviewed.1,6 Further research is needed to investigate combinations of nutrients and the subsequent effect on reproduction.

Some veterinary practitioners are convinced that there are profound interrelationships between the nutritional status of dairy cattle and their reproductive performance. This clinical impression was fostered because in many cases regular reproductive tract examinations alone were not adequate to ensure good herd reproductive health and reproductive efficiency. In some cases this impression is justified, but in many cases nutrition is the scapegoat for environment, stress, disease and the main problem of missed heats and other poor reproductive management practices.

This paper will discuss body condition scoring cows on a large dairy farm in north Florida, and its effect upon reproductive performance and 305-day mature equivalent four percent fat-corrected milk (ME 305).
Cow/Calf Production Records
Authors: Spire Mark F.
Published: March 2023

The use of records in a production medicine program can vary from the simple to the complex. Regardless of the degree of sophistication in the system, records should accurately document events occurring in the herd. Historians and politicians frequently use the phrase. "How do we know where we are going, if we don't know where we have been?" Records leave a written documentation for others to follow.

The development of production medicine programs depend to a large degree on informaton transfer between the producer, veterinarian, and various resource people involved in production agriculture. This exchange of ideas and concepts should result in cost efficient beef production for the enterprise. Each person plays a significant role. The producer establishes goals for the operation and provides day-to-day observations and documentation. The veterinarian provides documentation, technical and decisionmaking skills. Resource personnel provide the latest economic and technical information. The use of production records allows all parties involved to evaluate the operation's performance from a production and economic perspective while taking advantage of available technology.
Leptospira interrogans Serovar hardjo Infection of Cattle
Authors: Bolin Carole A.
Published: March 2023

Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease caused by infection with the spirochete bacterium Leptospira interrogans. L. interrogans is further divided on the basis of antigenic relatedness into serovars. Approximately 200 different serovars of L. interrogans have been identified and within a geographic area, certain serovars are prevalent and become adapted to a particular maintenance host (Table 1). In the United States the serovars of L. interrogans most commonly associated with bovine leptospirosis are hardjo, pomona and grippotyphosa. Serovars icterohaemorrhagiae, canicola, and bratislava are also occasionally associated with leptospirosis in cattle.
Penetration of Danofloxacin Into Tissues of the Respiratory and Gastrointestinal Tract in Calves
Authors: Friis Christian
Published: March 2023

Danofloxacin* (CP-76,136) is a new fluoroquinolone which possesses high in vitro activity against the major bacterial pathogens in farm animals (1). The spectrum and potency of this drug indicate potential utility in the treatment of a broad range of infections, including pneumonia and enteritis. To guide effective therapy, this study focuses on the pharmacokinetics of danofloxacin in calves and the penetration of the drug into tissues of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract.
Applied Epidemiology In Aid To Dairy Herd Health Programs
Authors: Noordhuizen Jos. P. , Frankena Klaas , Stassen Elsbeth N. , Brand Arie
Published: March 2023

Dairy herd health programs are being implemented in various countries for over 15 years. Advice to the farmer is usually not backed up by statistical analyses. The risk assessment component of veterinary epidemiology deals with the identification and quantification of risk factors and conditions contributing to multifactorial disease occurrence. In this paper on Italian footrot it is shown that the application of epidemiological risk indicator profiles can be useful for setting herd health priorities and for manipulating environmental risk factors to reduce disease occurrence.
AT-4526, A New Quinolone Derivative
Authors: Sakaguchi Yuzo , Kouno Kaoru , Nakai Masahiro , Matsumoto Shuji , Katae Hiromi , Hattori Hiroaki , Nakamura Shinichi
Published: March 2023

Various antibiotics have been used in the treatment of bacterial infections in domestic animals. In recent years, however, outbreaks of infections due to microorganisms resistant to antibiotics are often observed (1, 2, 3). The antibacterial quinolone derivatives does not show cross-resistance with antibiotics (4). AT-4526, 1-cyclopropyl-5,6,8-trifluoro-1 ,4- dihydro-7-(cis-3,5-dimethyl-1-piperazinyl)-4-oxoquinoline-3- carboxylic acid (Fig. 1), is a new quinolone derivative which was synthesized in 1986 (5). This compound, as well as the structurally related enrofloxacin (6), has a high order of activity against a broad spectrum of gram-positive, gram-negative bacteria, and Mycoplasma spp ..

This paper describes the in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activities of AT-4526 against field isolates in domestic animals and the comparison with those of enrofloxacin (ERFX), oxytetracycline (OTC), tylosin (TS), thiamphenicol (TP), kanamycin (KM) and ampicillin (ABPC).
Salmonellosis
Authors: McDonough Patrick L.
Published: March 2023

Salmonella bacteria have a remarkable ability to survive under adverse conditions. They survive between the pH's of 4 to 8, and can grow between 8 and 45°C. Salmonella are facultative anaerobic bacteria that can survive under low oxygen tension such as in manure slurry pits. Salmonella are known to survive for long periods in soil and in water. Salmonellae spread onto fields in the form of manure may survive for long periods; it is best to spread the manure onto flat land (to prevent runoff problems) where it is exposed to the drying effects of wind, and the bactericidal effect of UV irradiation from the sun; manure should be spread onto cropland rather than onto pastures for grazing. There has been much recent investigation into the advantages of different manure disposal methods; composting has many advantages from the standpoint of controlling disease. Salmonellae, as gram negative rods, are no more or less sensitive to the effects of commonly used disinfectants than are other gram negatives. Chlorine solutions, iodines, quaternary ammoniums, phenolics, etc., are very good at killing salmonellae on surfaces; however, efficient scraping/dry cleaning is important to get rid of organic matter and bedding, followed by wet cleaning with high pressure hot water/steam and then disinfection. The interval between wet cleaning and disinfection must not be too long or salmonellae can "bloom" in the wet environment. Many strains are relatively resistant to the effects of drying, salting, and smoking of foods. However, salmonellae are very sensitive to beta and gamma irradiation.
Antemortem Diagnosis of Bovine Respiratory Disease
Authors: Miskimins Dale W. , Leslie-Steen Pam , Shawd Stacey , Gates Connie
Published: March 2023

The bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) is the most common disease problem in feedlot cattle, accounting for 65-75% of feedlot morbidity and mortality. The annual cost of BRDC to the cattle industry has been estimated at $167.2 million to $232.4 million (Perino, 1992). BRDC is caused by a complex interaction of stresses and microorganisms on the host animal. In most outbreaks, it is not possible to diagnose with certainty which infectious agents are present by clinical examination alone. Diagnosis of infectious causes of BRDC has primarily been done on tissue samples obtained from postmortem examinations. This method has resulted in a low diagnosis rate for viral infections. In addition, antibiograms done on bacterial isolates from the lungs of treated dead cattle or chronically ill cattle are of questionable value since these samples were obtained from "treatment failures". We have adopted a new program combining nasal swabs and tracheal swabs to improve viral diagnosis rates and provide more meaningful sensitivity data on bacterial isolates. The goal of this program is to provide more timely and accurate information so informed decisions can be made on treatment, vaccination, and herd health programs when BRDC outbreaks occur.
Approach for designing appropriate Johne's disease control programs on the farm
Authors: Rossiter Christine A.
Published: March 2023

Testing is a critical tool in controlling Johne's disease. However, the limitations and options associated with commonly used tests can create confusion about herd testing as a part of a control program. Rational test choices can be made by veterinarians and producers with a basic understanding of the tests available, what they do, what results mean, and how results can be appropriately used. Understanding the tests underlies their usefulness. The issues that influence choice of commonly used tests and test strategies include basic performance characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, predictive value), cost, interpretation of results, herd test strategies (frequency, portion of herd tested, one or combination of tests), and action to be taken based on test results. These issues preclude a generic proscription for the most appropriate test scheme. Instead, each should be weighed in the context of the farm situation to determine the most appropriate strategy for their control program.
Case-Control Study of Papillomatous Digital Dermatitis in Southern California Dairies
Authors: Rodriguez A. , Hird D. W. , Carpenter T. E. , Read D. H.
Published: March 2023

In order to describe papillomatous digital dermatitis (PDD), and to determine risk factors for highly affected dairies, data from 37 southern California dairies with >5% of cows affected (highly affected dairies, cases) were compared with those from 20 dairies with 5.5% of cows affected (controls). Information on dairy environment, management and PDD occurrence was obtained from dairy managers, veterinarians and hooftrimmers, and by direct measurement.
Potassium, Not Calcium Induces Milk Fever
Authors: Goff J. P. , Horst R. L.
Published: March 2023

The effects of prepartal dietary potassium, sodium, and calcium concentration on the incidence of periparturient hypocalcemia or milk fever was determined in older (≥ 4th lactation) Jersey cows.
Implementing Biosecurity in Beef and Dairy Herds
Authors: Thompson John U.
Published: March 2023

The common disease prevention and control practices employed by the majority of beef and dairy herds today are inadequate to meet the future demands. They rely on visual observation, regulatory compliance, vaccination, and limited attention to biosecurity of the herds making animal additions.1

Bovine practitioners have been encouraged to increase their participation in nutritional, genetic selection, and financial and production record analysis for beef and dairy herds. Different surveys have indicated that cattle owners continue to look to the bovine practitioner primarily for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and addressing the needs of the individual animal. Veterinarians can strengthen their position in the decision-making team by providing a herd biosecurity and biocontainment risk management assessment and protocol.

For this article, biosecurity will refer to attempts to prevent the entry of pathogens considered potentially harmful to the health and well-being of the herd. Practitioners are encouraged to expand the principles to include such things as genetics and nutrients. Biocontainment will refer to controlling the elements within a given population of cattle. Biocontainment strategies should apply to the management of epidemics within a herd and should address biosecurity failures.
Effect of an Oral Calcium Chloride Gel on Prevention of Hypocalcemic Relapses in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Oetzel Garrett R. , Vagnoni David B. , Nordlund Kenneth V.
Published: March 2023

Hypocalcemic relapses affect about 25 to 40% of all dairy cows that are successfully treated for clinical milk fever. Oral calcium supplements may have benefit in reducing the incidence of hypocalcemic relapses, but have not been evaluated for this purpose. Seventy spontaneous cases of milk fever in Holstein cows were used in a prospective, double-blind field study to evaluate the efficacy of an oral calcium gel (Balance TM, Bayer Animal Health, Shawnee Mission, KS) in preventing hypocalcemic relapses.
Comparison of Prophylactic Antibiotic Treatments with Regards to Morbidity, Mortality and Performance in Arkansas Stocker Cattle
Authors: Hellwig D. H. , Kegley E. B. , Silzell S.
Published: March 2023

Eighty-eight mixed breed heifer calves (180-227 kg) were used to compare the prophylactic use of tilmicosin  Micotil®, Elanco Animal Health, Indianapolis, IN) with the addition of chlortetracycine (Aureomycin® 50, Roche Animal Nutrition and Health, Paramus, NJ) to the receiving ration from days 2-6 after arrival.
Pengkinian Konstruksi Joglo Tanpa Empat Saka Guru
Authors: Koesmartadi Christophorus , Kusyanto Mohhamad
Published: March 2023

Title: Updating Joglo Construction Without Four Saka guru (Case Study of Pendopo Pura Agung Blambangan of Banyuwangi)
 
Current architectural developments to maintain its sustainability have reached the awareness stage to explore the potential for the diversity of archipelago architecture, one of which is exploring the potential for the Joglo traditional house for the future. The demand for wide spans often comes to the fore, so it is not uncommon for new construction designs to respond to the demands for wide spans free from pillars. However, a solution is needed to solve this problem. The pillars and their frames are the main part of the main reinforcement system for the roof load as a whole, so they become prerequisites on behalf of the Joglo. This writing aims to analyze the updated form of construction without pillars that still maintain the Joglo form. The research method uses a qualitative descriptive approach by examining the process of eliminating the four pillars of teachers by analyzing the reliability of the structural system of the Puri Agung Blambangan pavilion and the Sabha Swagata Blambangan pavilion in Banyuwangi, East Java. The research results show how the construction of the four pillars and their frames are believed to be the main strength to withstand the roof’s weight. The construction system without the four pillars of the guru and their frames reduces the rigidity of the building because the strength is transferred to the pillars on the edges of the building and does not reflect the joglo structural and construction system. Many knot points have appeared without the pillars and the framework of a construction system, increasing the risk of collapse.
Wormholes from averaging over states
Authors: Freivogel Ben , Nikolakopoulou Dora , Rotundo Antonio
Published: March 2023

An important question about black holes is to what extent a typical
pure state differs from the ensemble average. We show that this question
can be answered within semi-classical gravity. We focus on the quantum
deviation, which measures the fluctuations in the expectation value of
an operator in an ensemble of pure states. For a large class of
ensembles and observables, these fluctuations are calculated by a
correlation function in the eternal black hole background, which can be
reliably calculated within semi-classical gravity. This implements the
idea of [arXiv:2002.02971] that wormholes can arise from averages over
states rather than theories. As an application, we calculate the size of
the long-time correlation function \langle A(t) A(0)\rangle⟨A(t)A(0)⟩.
AYURVEDIC UNDERSTANDING OF ACUTE STAGE OF ATOPIC DERMATITIS
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Kaumarabhritya, Ahalia Ayurveda Medical College, Palakkad., G. Arathi , M.V Anilkumar ,   Professor & head, Department of Kaumarabhritya, Govt Ayurveda College, Trivandrum.
Published: March 2023

Atopic dermatitis is one of the common dermatoses affecting pediatric population with prevalence ranging from 15 % to 23 %. Gradual increase in the prevalence of AD has been observed recently and it significantly affects the quality of life of children. Children suffering from Atopic dermatitis are affected with symptoms such as sleep loss, irritability, anxiety, lowered self esteem and psychological problems. Many patients suffering from Atopic dermatitis are coming for Ayurvedic treatment. So it is necessary to understand the stage of disease on the basis of thridosha concepts. This conceptual study aims to understand acute stage of Atopic dermatis as kapha paithika visarpa.
PLAFOND DE VERRE ET CARRIERE DES AUDITRICES : ENTRE OBSTACLES ET MECANISMES DE DEPASSEMENT
Authors:   Universite Mohammed V de Rabat., Boukhari Sanaa ,   Faculte des Sciences de lEducation.
Published: March 2023

Le present article se propose detudier le plafond de verre dans les organisations. Plus precisement, il sagit de repondre a la question portant sur les determinants ainsi que les strategies de depassement deployees par les femmes afin de faire face a ces barrieres artificielles et invisibles qui altererent leur avancement de carriere. Linvestigation empirique a permis de collecter des donnees qualitatives issues dentretiens semi-directifs menes aupres de 16 auditrices evoluant dans des postes de manager et manager senior au sein de cabinets daudit et de conseil implantes au Maroc. Lanalyse qui sensuit a mis en exergue un ensemble de determinants expliquant lexistence dun plafond de verre en contexte organisationnel, ainsi que plusieurs strategies de depassement deployees par ces femmes afin de le briser et poursuivre leur ascension professionnelle.