bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Systems for evaluation of welfare on dairy farms
Authors: Krueger Angela , Cruickshank Jenifer , Trevisi Erminio , Bionaz Massimo 
Published: July 2020

AbstractAnimal welfare is an essential component of dairy production and several systems exist to evaluate the welfare of dairy cows. Here, we review and compare three well-known systems that operate at farm level from around the world (FARM, Welfare Quality®, and The Code of Welfare) and discuss their advantages and limitations. Despite having some commonalities, the programs evaluate different elements. We also briefly review an emerging system (Integrated Diagnostic Welfare System) that might address some of the shortcomings of the existing systems, especially the possibility of automating the evaluation of animal well-being and identifying any cause of poor welfare. None of the aforementioned systems has been fully validated for their ability to assess animal welfare using independent measurements. The future holds increased attention around the well-being of dairy cows and increased use of sensing technologies. There is an urgent need for dairy welfare evaluation systems that are scientifically validated, holistic, and that can take advantage of the use of sensing technologies to continuously monitor animal welfare.
Management practices that influence the welfare of calves on small family farms
Authors: Relić Renata , Starič Jože , Ježek Jožica 
Published: July 2020

AbstractIn this Research Reflection we review management practices in small family farms with less than 100 cows. Small farms represent the majority of farms in the EU and the world, and they are of great importance for the economy of a country. On cattle farms, the welfare of calves is of primary importance for the profitability of the herd, and poor management is one of the main factors influencing calf health and survival. Data on the risk factors for calf welfare issues in small-scale farms are limited. For this purpose, the literature data from six world countries were presented and compared, including Serbia and Slovenia where a survey related to the issue was carried out within the COST Action FA1308, DairyCare. Some practices within the following areas in calf management were considered: calving management, care for new-born calves, use of painful procedures, colostrum management, cow–calf separation, calf feeding, weaning, calf housing, and general monitoring. In each of the countries, the health and welfare of calves are threatened by some omissions in rearing practices and the major are related to the new-born calf management, the feeding and watering management, and the application of hygienic measures. Many farmers are well aware of the importance of proper calf rearing; others would need more incentive to improve calf management. Each country should pay attention to the education of farmers about the most common deficiencies in calf management.
Play and social behaviour of calves with or without access to their dam and other cows
Authors: Waiblinger Susanne , Wagner Kathrin , Hillmann Edna , Barth Kerstin 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThe aim of the study reported in this Research Communication was to compare play behaviour and social interactions of dairy calves either separated from their mother and reared in a calf group (Artificial) or with access to their mother and the cow herd (cow-calf contact: Contact). Contact calves had access to a calf area and also to the cow barn where they could suckle their dam. Artificial calves were fed whole milk up to 16 kg per day via an automatic milk feeder and were only kept in the calf area. We observed the animals on 3 d during the first three months of life. Contact calves showed solitary play, consisting predominantly of locomotor play, for longer than Artificial calves and mainly in the cow barn. This indicates higher welfare in Contact calves. In addition, Artificial calves hardly experienced any agonistic interaction, while Contact calves both initiated and received agonistic interactions, which might contribute to the development of higher social competence.
Sensing solutions for improving the performance, health and wellbeing of small ruminants
Authors: Caja Gerardo , Castro-Costa Andreia , Salama Ahmed A.K. , Oliver Joan , Baratta Mario , Ferrer Carles , Knight Christopher H. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractDiversity of production systems and specific socio-economic barriers are key reasons explaining why the implementation of new technologies in small ruminants, despite being needed and beneficial for farmers, is harder than in other livestock species. There are, however, helpful peculiarities where small ruminants are concerned: the compulsory use of electronic identification created a unique scenario in Europe in which all small ruminant breeding stock became searchable by appropriate sensing solutions, and the largest small ruminant population in the world is located in Asia, close to the areas producing new technologies. Notwithstanding, only a few research initiatives and literature reviews have addressed the development of new technologies in small ruminants. This Research Reflection focuses on small ruminants (with emphasis on dairy goats and sheep) and reviews in a non-exhaustive way the basic concepts, the currently available sensor solutions and the structure and elements needed for the implementation of sensor-based husbandry decision support. Finally, some examples of results obtained using several sensor solutions adapted from large animals or newly developed for small ruminants are discussed. Significant room for improvement is recognized and a large number of multiple-sensor solutions are expected to be developed in the relatively near future.
Integrative taxonomy reveals a cryptic species of the nudibranch genusPolycera(Polyceridae) in European waters
Authors: Sørensen Cecilie Gotaas , Rauch Cessa , Pola Marta , Malaquias Manuel António E. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThis work aimed to test whether the colour variability featured by the European nudibranchPolycera quadrilineatais consistent with the concept of a single polychromatic species or may hide multiple lineages. Samples from across the geographic range ofP. quadrilineatatogether with representatives from worldwide species with a focus on Atlantic diversity, were gathered and studied using an integrative taxonomic approach. Morpho-anatomical characters were investigated by light and scanning electron microscopy. Bayesian molecular phylogenetics using MrBayes, the Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery species delimitation method, and haplotype network analysis using the PopArt software were employed to help delimit species using the mitochondrial gene cytochromecoxidase subunit I (COI). The results supported the existence of a second species, here described and namedPolycera norvegicasp. nov., only known from Norway where it is sympatric withP. quadrilineata. The COI uncorrectedp-genetic distance between the two species was estimated at 9.6–12.4%.Polycera norvegicasp. nov. differs by exhibiting a black dotted or patchy dotted pattern occasionally with more or less defined orange/brown patches, but never black continuous or dashed stripes as inP. quadrilineata. The two species share a common colouration with a whitish base and yellow/orange tubercles. Anatomically,P. norvegicasp. nov. has a weaker labial cuticle, a smaller radula with fewer rows, and only four marginal teeth, a reproductive system with a single lobed bursa copulatrix, shorter reproductive ducts, and a penis armed with two kinds of spines: needle-like and hook-shaped penile spines.
Infection with Toxoplasma gondii increases the risk of psychiatric disorders in Taiwan: a nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Lin Hsin-An , Chien Wu-Chien , Huang Kuo-Yang , Chung Chi-Hsiang , Chen Lih-Chyang , Lin Hsin-Chung , Guo Jong-Long 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThis study aimed to evaluate associations between toxoplasmosis and psychiatric disorders in Taiwan based on the National Health Insurance Research Database, Taiwan (1997–2013). Patients newly diagnosed with toxoplasmosis formed the case group (n = 259), and the control group included propensity-score matched patients without toxoplasmosis (n = 1036). The primary outcome was incidence of psychiatric disorders. Cox proportional hazards regression and stratified analyses were performed to examine risk of developing specific psychiatric disorders between patients with and without toxoplasmosis. Patients with toxoplasmosis had significantly higher incidence of psychiatric disorders than those without toxoplasmosis (P = 0.016). A significant difference was found in numbers of psychiatric disorders between the two groups during 14 years of follow-up (log-rank P < 0.001). Those with toxoplasmosis had significantly higher risk of bipolar disorder [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR = 3.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.07, 7.26), depression (aHR = 4.94, 95% CI = 2.15, 11.80) and anxiety (aHR = 5.36, 95% CI = 2.98, 25.88), but no significant between-group differences were found for schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. In conclusion, the present nationwide population-based analysis revealed that Toxoplasma gondii infection in Taiwan significantly increases the risk for developing bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety, but not for schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
Morphometric and genetic evidence for cryptic diversity inGyrodactylus(Monogenea) infecting non-native European populations ofAmeiurus nebulosusandA. melas
Authors: Ondračková Markéta , Seifertová Mária , Bryjová Anna , Leis Eric , Jurajda Pavel 
Published: July 2020

AbstractGyrodactylid parasites were observed on non-native populations of North-American freshwater catfishes,Ameiurus nebulosusandAmeiurus melas(Siluriformes: Ictaluridae), at several sites in the Elbe River basin, Czech Republic, Europe. Using a combination of morphological and genetic analyses, the parasites infectingA. nebulosuswere determined to beGyrodactylus nebulosus, a North American parasite co-introduced to Europe along with itsAmeiurusfish hosts. Subtle morphometrical differences, as well as seasonal variations, were observed among parasites collected fromA. nebulosusandA. melas. The host-related variation was further supported through genetic analysis of the partial 18S rDNA, ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 and COI, showing 0.2, 3.0 and 4.8% divergence, respectively. Consistent genetic differences indicated there were two distinct genotypes. Subtle morphological differences associated with the shape of sickle toe, anchor root and ventral bar membrane, according to host species, also supported the description of a new cryptic species,Gyrodactylus melasn. sp., infectingA. melas. Multivariate morphometrical analysis of haptoral hard parts showed significant differences between the anchor lengths ofG. nebulosusandG. melasn. sp. However, the measurements of the haptoral hard structures partially overlapped between species, limiting the usage of these parameters for species delineation.
An efficient photograph-based quantitative method for assessing castrating trematode parasites in bivalve molluscs
Authors: Brian Joshua I. , Aldridge David C. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractParasitic castration of bivalves by trematodes is common, and may significantly reduce the reproductive capacity of ecologically important species. Understanding the intensity of infection is desirable, as it can indicate the time that has passed since infection, and influence the host's physiological and reproductive response. In addition, it is useful to know the developmental stage of the trematode, to understand trematode population trends and reproductive success. However, most existing methods (e.g. visually estimating the degree of infection) to assess intensity are approximate only and not reproducible. Here, we present a method to accurately quantify the percentage of bivalve gonad filled with digenean trematode tissue, based on small squashes of gonad tissue rapidly photographed under light microscopy. A maximum of 15 photographs is required to determine the percentage of the whole gonad occupied by trematodes with a minimum of 90% confidence, with smaller mussels requiring fewer. In addition, the stage of trematode infection can be assessed because full sporocysts, spent sporocysts and free cercariae are clearly distinguishable. Although variation exists in the distribution of trematodes in gonad tissue, and thus in the estimate of percentage of the gonad filled with trematodes, this method represents a marked improvement on current coarse assessments of infection which typically focus on binary presence/absence measures. This technique can be used to facilitate a more sophisticated understanding of host–parasite interactions in bivalves, and can inform the conservation and reproductive biology of environmentally crucial species.
Angiostrongylus cantonensis (rat lungworm) in Florida, USA: current status
Authors: Walden Heather D. S. , Slapcinsky John , Rosenberg Justin , Wellehan James F. X. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractAngiostrongylus cantonensis has been found in Florida, USA, from the panhandle in the north to Miami and surrounding areas in the southern parts of the state, in both definitive and intermediate hosts in a limited studies completed in 2015. Additional studies have identified this parasite in a variety of intermediate hosts, both native and non-native gastropod species, with new host species recorded. Many areas in Florida with higher A. cantonensis prevalence were those with a high human population density, which suggests it is a matter of time before human infections occur in Florida. Case reports in the state currently involve non-human primates and include a gibbon and orangutan in Miami. Here, we report the current status of A. cantonensis in the state, as well as the infection in a capuchin monkey and presumptive infection in a red ruffed lemur in Gainesville, Florida.
A national study of the outcome after treatment of critical aortic stenosis in the neonate
Authors: Kjellberg Olofsson Cecilia , Hanseus Katarina , Johansson Ramgren Jens , Johansson Synnergren Mats , Sunnegårdh Jan 
Published: July 2020

AbstractObjective:This study describes short-term and long-term outcome after treatment of critical valvular aortic stenosis in neonates in a national cohort, with surgical valvotomy as first choice intervention.Methods:All neonates in Sweden treated for critical aortic stenosis between 1994 and 2016 were included. Patient files were analysed and cross-checked against the Swedish National Population Registry as of December 2017, giving complete survival data. Diagnosis was confirmed by reviewing echo studies. Critical aortic stenosis was defined as valvular stenosis with duct-dependent systemic circulation or depressed left ventricular function. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality and secondary outcomes were reintervention and aortic valve replacement.Results:Sixty-one patients were identified (50 boys, 11 girls). Primary treatment was surgical valvotomy in 52 neonates and balloon valvotomy in 6. Median age at initial treatment was 5 days (0–26), and median follow-up time was 10.8 years (0.14–22.6). There was no 30-day mortality but four late deaths. Freedom from reintervention was 66%, 61%, 54%, 49%, and 46% at 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years, respectively. Median time to reintervention was 3.4 months (4 days to 17.3 years). Valve replacement was performed in 23 patients (38%).Conclusions:Surgical valvotomy is a safe and reliable treatment in these critically ill neonates, with no 30-day mortality and long-term survival of 93% in this national study. At 10 years of age, reintervention was performed in 54% and at end of follow-up 38% had had an aortic valve replacement.
Contingent hope theory: The developmental exploration of hope and identity reconciliation among young adults with advanced cancers
Authors: Currin-McCulloch Jennifer , Walsh Casey , Gulbas Lauren , Trevino Kelly , Pomeroy Elizabeth , Jones Barbara 
Published: July 2020

AbstractObjectiveThe diagnosis of an advanced cancer in young adulthood can bring one's life to an abrupt halt, calling attention to the present moment and creating anguish about an uncertain future. There is seldom time or physical stamina to focus on forward-thinking, social roles, relationships, or dreams. As a result, young adults (YAs) with advanced cancer frequently encounter existential distress, despair, and question the purpose of their life. We sought to investigate the meaning and function of hope throughout YAs’ disease trajectory; to discern the psychosocial processes YAs employ to engage hope; and to develop a substantive theory of hope of YAs diagnosed with advanced cancer.MethodThirteen YAs (ages 23–38) diagnosed with a stage III or IV cancer were recruited throughout the eastern and southeastern United States. Participants completed one semi-structured interview in-person, by phone, or Skype, that incorporated an original timeline instrument assessing fluctuations in hope and an online socio-demographic survey. Glaser's grounded theory methodology informed constant comparative methods of data collection, analysis, and interpretation.ResultsFindings from this study informed the development of the novelcontingent hopetheoretical framework, which describes the pattern of psychosocial behaviors YAs with advanced cancer employ to reconcile identities and strive for a life of meaning. The ability to cultivate the necessary agency and pathways to reconcile identities became contingent on the YAs’ participation in each of the psychosocial processes of the contingent hope theoretical framework: navigating uncertainty, feeling broken, disorienting grief, finding bearings, and identity reconciliation.Significance of ResultsStudy findings portray the influential role of hope in motivating YAs with advanced cancer through disorienting grief toward an integrated sense of self that marries cherished aspects of multiple identities. The contingent hope theoretical framework details psychosocial behaviors to inform assessments and interventions fostering hope and identity reconciliation.
Where Are the Women? Descriptive Representation and COVID-19 in U.K. Daily Press Briefings
Authors: Smith Jessica C. 
Published: July 2020

AbstractAs governments tackle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, both the role of women in governments and the specific effect of the pandemic on women have come under scrutiny. This research note examines the descriptive representation of women in the U.K. government's response to the coronavirus. It finds that 43% of the government's daily press briefings featured an all-male lineup with no female politician or expert present. In particular, female politicians are missing, with only one female cabinet member ever leading the briefing. Women's (in)visibility raises concerns about the legitimacy of democratic decisions and likely has policy consequences: women's absence may exacerbate gendered inequalities resulting from the crisis.
Design of a miniature dual-band bandpass filter with interlocked stepped-impedance resonators for 5G new radio access technology
Authors: Hsu Wei-Lun , Lyu Pei-Yu , Chang Sheng-Fuh 
Published: July 2020

AbstractA miniature dual-band bandpass filter with interlocked stepped-impedance resonators (SIRs) is presented in this paper, which was designed for the student design competition held in European Microwave Week 2019. This bandpass filter is required to have two concurrent passbands, namely, the first passband at 900–1000 MHz and the second passband at 1427–1518 MHz bands, which cover six designated bands in sub-6 GHz range of fifth generation (5G) New Radio Access Technology. Three stopbands are required at 500–850, 1050–1350, and 1600–2000 MHz, respectively. To achieve the best figure of merit, an interlocked configuration of two SIRs is proposed. One advantage is that the impedance ratio of the inter-locked SIR can be controlled to have two passbands at the required frequencies. Second, the coupling section of the interlocked SIR gives three transmission zeros distributed to every stopbands such that the stopband suppression are dramatically enhanced. The measured results show that the passband insertion losses are 2.16 dB at the first passband and 1.33 dB at the second passband, and the return losses are greater than 10 dB. The stopband suppression at the transmission zeros are greater than 38 dB. The circuit is very compact as 41.40 × 19.96 mm2, equivalent to $0.25 \times 0.12\,\lambda _g^2$.
Protecting the right to life in protracted conflicts: The existence and dignity dimensions of General Comment 36
Authors: Rishmawi Mona 
Published: July 2020

AbstractWith a focus on situations of protracted conflict, this article explores the new horizons offered by the recent explanation by the United Nations Human Rights Committee on the right to life in its General Comment 36. The freshly formulated contours of this right not only present normative clarity but are also valuable for conflict management and resolution. Considering the articulation by the Human Rights Committee, we can now see two dimensions of this right: existence and dignity. Although the existence dimension is not new, one now finds additional insights concerning the legality, transparency and accountability of the use of lethal force that have particular relevance to armed conflict. The new dignity dimension has practical implications for the conditions of life in protracted conflicts, taking us beyond norms to the policy spheres of humanitarian action and development. Tracing the origins of the term “protracted conflict” to the late Lebanese scholar Edward Azar, the article also introduces the reader to some of his work and thinking.
Bouncing Back from the Burden of Dementia
Authors: Wuttke-Linnemann Alexandra , Henrici Clara Blanca , Müller Norbert , Lieb Klaus , Fellgiebel Andreas 
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Background: Although there is mounting evidence of dyadic interdependencies between patients with dementia (PWD) and their caregivers, predictors of resilience among PWD and their caregivers are generally regarded in isolation. We therefore investigated how dyadic interdependencies regarding common resilience factors predict subjective notions of individual resilience. Methods: A total of 29 dyads (caregivers: 23 female, 73 ± 7 years; PWD: 6 female, 76 ± 6 years, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score: 18 ± 6) drawn from two studies answered questions about resilience (Brief Resilience Scale; BRS), partnership quality (Marital Quality Questionnaire; PFB), and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale; GDS-15). Using linear regression models, we predicted BRS scores by linearly combining individual characteristics (intraindividual level), characteristics of the partner (interindividual level), and their dyadic similarity (dyadic level). Results: Intraindividually, higher resilience in caregivers was associated with female sex; interindividually, it was associated with lower MMSE scores and higher PFB scores in PWD. On a dyadic level, the more different the GDS-15 scores were, the higher the resilience of caregivers. For PWD, higher resilience was significantly related to individual lower GDS-15 scores and higher PFB scores, while the characteristics of caregivers did not explain any variance. However, similarity in GDS-15 scores predicted higher resilience in PWD. Discussion: Resilience is affected differently in PWD and caregivers, potentially pointing to different strategies in coping with disease-related changes. Future studies are necessary to examine the mechanisms underlying resilience in PWD and their respective caregiver in order to tailor interventions that address the needs of both parties, from the individual, interindividual, and dyadic perspectives.