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We analysed internal dispersal of zooplankton by waterbirds (endozoochory) in New Zealand, quantifying zooplankton eggs in faecal droppings collected at two lakes, Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton) and Lake Rotorua. Sixty-seven faecal droppings were collected from Mallard Ducks (20), Canada Geese (11), Greylag Geese (6), Black Swans (20) and Australian Coots (10). Fifty eggs were found, with a mean of 0.75 eggs per dropping, indicating that waterbirds consume zooplankton eggs, and that these pass through the digestive system. No significant difference was observed in the abundance of eggs among waterbird species, and no eggs hatched in the laboratory. Our results suggest that waterbird dispersal of zooplankton in New Zealand is occurring, but numbers being transported are low. Further, as non-native waterbirds such as mallard ducks and geese do not migrate in New Zealand to the extent they do elsewhere, they are likely not primary vectors for zooplankton dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The simplification of forest structural complexity, caused by anthropogenic land-use practices, is one of the main threats to understory specialist birds. We examined the association of both single structural attributes and structural complexity, with the density of 4 understory bird species in the Global Biodiversity Hotspot "Chilean Winter Rainfall-Valdivian Forests" of South America. Between 2011 and 2013, we surveyed habitat attributes and conducted bird point counts in 505 plots in Andean temperate ecosystems in Chile. In each habitat plot, we measured understory density, volume of coarse woody debris (CWD), number of snags, diameter at breast height (DBH) of trees, and leaf litter depth. With these attributes, we developed an index of stand structural complexity (ISC). On average, old-growth forests had higher values for understory density, CWD volume, DBH, and litter depth than secondary forests and open fields, and thus greater values of ISC. The density of understory birds was positively correlated with the ISC for the Rhinocryptidae Pteroptochos tarnii, Scelorchilus rubecula, and Scytalopus magellanicus. We also found a positive association between understory density and litter depth, with the density of the Furnariidae Sylviorthorhynchus desmursii. However, this latter species showed a negative association with the density of snags. Our results suggest the utility of using an index of structural complexity, rather than single or even additive habitat attributes, for determining the density of understory specialist birds. We recommend that management plans should promote the retention of habitat attributes that contribute to the structural complexity of temperate forests of South America and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large and necessary diffusion of huge solar plants in extra urban areas implies the adoption of maintenance strategies especially where human intervention would require high costs and logistic problems. Animal dejections like bird droppings and agricultural sprays are environmental agents able to significantly decrease light absorption and, in some cases, cause serious damage to the electric conversion systems in a photovoltaic panel. In this work, the performance of a superhydrophobic (SH) coating in terms of durable self-cleaning properties and transparency has been studied in the presence of commercial and simulated contaminants on glass reference and solar panel surfaces. Wettability studies have been carried out both in static and dynamic conditions in order to compare the compositional effect of commercial liquids used as fertilizers or pesticides and molecules like pancreatin as model substances simulating bird droppings. From these studies, it can be observed that the superhydrophobic coating, independently from the surface where it is applied, is able to repel water and substances used such as fertilizers or pesticides and substances simulating bird droppings, maintaining its properties and transparency. This kind of approach can provide information to design suitable spray formulations without the above-mentioned drawbacks to be used in natural environment areas and agrosolar plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae require nutrients and optimal pH for good growth and metabolite production. Microalgae biomass has various applications in food and feed, pharmaceuticals, bio-energy, aquaculture, cosmetics and other related industries. However, the cost of media represents a significant percentage of the total production cost. The aim of this work was therefore, to develop a cheap medium for efficient outdoor cultivation of microalgae and to find the optimum pH for biomass production. Three Chlorella species designated A, B and C were isolated from three stagnant water bodies at Amoke Lane, University market road in Nsukka town by using BG-11 enriched with poultry droppings. Poultry droppings medium was prepared by drying under the sunlight for 5 days. The dried poultry droppings were crushed into a fine powder and 200 g was weighed and soaked in 1000 ml of distilled water for 3 days and filtered using a muslin cloth. A mixture of the poultry droppings medium and the conventional BG-11 medium was prepared by mixing equal volume of each medium. The growth and biomass productivity of the three local isolates in BG-11 medium were compared with those in poultry medium, and a mixture of poultry and BG-11 media. The results showed that the growth of the three isolates in poultry medium alone were significantly higher than the values obtained in BG-11 and a mixture of BG-11 and poultry medium (p< 0.05). With poultry medium, the maximum optical densities of the cultures were 2.10± 0.07, 2.56± 0.09 and 3.35± 0.11 for isolates A, B, and C respectively. However, with a mixture of BG-11 and poultry medium, the maximum optical densities were 0.83± 0.01, 1.67± 0.05 and 0.57± 0.02 respectively. BG-11 supported the least growth of the three isolates, giving maximum optical densities of 0.38± 0.01, 0.42± 0.03 and 0.52± 0.02 respectively. All the three isolates had their best growth in poultry medium at pH of 5.0. The results show that poultry medium, which is cheap and can be easily prepared from poultry droppings, is very good for cultivation of some species of microalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the toxicity of modern feeds polluted by mycotoxins, various sorbents are added to them when feeding animals. A part of the mycotoxins is excreted from the body of animals with these sorbents and remains in the manure. As a result, bulk animal wastes containing mixtures of mycotoxins are formed. It is known that it is partially possible to decrease the initial concentration of mycotoxins in the process of anaerobic digestion (AD) of contaminated methanogenic substrates. The aim of this review was to analyze the recent results in destruction of mycotoxins under the action of enzymes present in cells of anaerobic consortia catalyzing methanogenesis of wastes. The possible improvement of the functioning of the anaerobic artificial consortia during detoxification of mycotoxins in the bird droppings is discussed. Particular attention was paid to the possibility of effective functioning of microbial enzymes that catalyze the detoxification of mycotoxins, both at the stage of preparation of poultry manure for methanogenesis and directly in the anaerobic process itself. The sorbents with mycotoxins which appeared in the poultry wastes composed one of the topics of interest in this review. The preliminary alkaline treatment of poultry excreta before processing in AD was considered from the standpoint of effectively reducing the concentrations of mycotoxins in the waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relevance. The results of a study on the use of organomineral fertilizers obtained using biocatalytic processes for detoxification of poultry waste and their influence on the growth and development of plants during the growing season are presented.Methodology. For poultry farms, it is necessary to create and introduce waste-free technologies for the preparation of fertilizers. To increase the efficiency of the fertilizer as a biological catalyst, we used a bacterial growth stimulator sodium humate, obtained by us according to a previously developed technology from brown coal from the Maikubenskoye deposit in the Republic of Kazakhstan («Method for producing sodium humate» Patent No. 4600 RK), as well as a sorbent based on sodium humate (a by-product of obtaining sodium humate), which was used to detoxify the feedstock and the resulting product from heavy metals and their salts due to its absorption-adsorption and complexing properties. For the developed technology for producing organic fertilizers, an application has been submitted for obtaining a Patent for the invention of the Republic of Kazakhstan «Method for producing organic fertilizers» (priority No. 2021-22818, dated July 13, 2021). Studies to determine the effectiveness of the resulting fertilizer were carried out on the experimental plots of the peasant farm «Flame», Pavlodar district of Pavlodar region of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In the soil intended for growing seedlings of tomatoes of the «Pepper-shaped Orange» variety and peppers of the «Bogatyr» variety, the resulting fertilizer was applied in an amount of 1 kg per 1 m2 of soil, which was dug to a depth of 8-10 cm and used for growing seedlings in greenhouses and in subsequent for planting it in open ground. xperimental and control studies were carried out under equivalent climatic conditions, scheme and technology of watering plants. In total, 100 bushes of each plant species were used in the experiment.Results. The use of the obtained organomineral fertilizer makes it possible to increase the yield of vegetable crops (tomatoes, peppers) by 20-25% in comparison with the control. In addition, in the experimental samples, an increase in the number of fruits on the bush was noted with an increase in their size, a decrease in the growing season and the number of damaged fruits.

Les problèmes de cohabitation hommes–oiseaux ne sont pas un phénomène récent même si aujourd'hui leur importance a pris une ampleur considérable et indiscutable. Leurs déjections contiennent des concentrations importantes de microorganismes, pouvant provoquer des maladies allergiques, telles que les pneumopathies d'hypersensibilité (PHS) anciennement dénommées alvéolites allergiques extrinsèques mais aussi rhinites, asthmes ou conjonctivites. Nous rapportons un cas d'allergie rare aux fientes d'oiseaux chez un patient éleveur de poules et de canaris, ayant consulté pour rhinoconjonctivite dont le bilan allergologique a retrouvé une sensibilisation à ces déjections avec des tests cutanés et IgE spécifiques positifs. Sa prise en charge a consisté en une éviction du risque avec un traitement médical. C'est une pathologie rare, à laquelle il faut penser en cas d'exposition aux oiseaux. The problems of human–bird cohabitation are not a recent phenomenon even if today their importance has taken on an indisputable extent. Their droppings contain significant concentrations of microorganisms and can cause allergic diseases, such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HSP), formerly called extrinsic allergic alveolitis, but also rhinitis, asthma or conjunctivitis. We report a rare case of allergy to bird droppings in a patient who raises chickens and canaries, having consulted for rhinoconjunctivitis whose allergological assessment found sensitization of these droppings with positive skin and specific IgE tests. Its management consisted of avoiding the risk with medical treatment. It is a rare pathology that must be considered in the event of exposure to birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most acute environmental problems of our time include large volumes of bird droppings produced annually at large livestock complexes. At the same time, the sod-podzolic soils dominating in the Non-Chernozem zone of the European part of Russia are characterized by low reserves of humus, which quickly fall with intensive agricultural use and soil anthropogenic degradation. To restore degraded sod-podzolic soils, a peat-sand substrate enriched with compost from quail manure without and with the application of phosphogypsum to stabilize organic compounds of compost was used with the support of project No. 075-15-2021-1030 of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia. The vegetation experiment showed the maximum increase in plant biomass of the herbage in the variant with the combined use of compost and phosphogypsum: respectively, 30% higher than the control one. In the summer, there is an increased intensity of soil CO2 emissions in the variants with compost, but with a multiple more active increase in grass biomass growing, so one can talk about the atmosphere carbon sequestering nature of the technology of utilization of quail droppings during the restoration of disturbed sod-podzolic soils with the formation of a stable herbage.

Our aim was to investigate the among-populations diversity of prey composition in Eurasian Reed Warblers' diets via their droppings, both to assess the ecological validity of this sampling method and to test whether the prey species most abundant in fecal samples were also the most present in the Italian study site. We collected fecal samples at four sites throughout Italy, for a total of 144 samples. Within reedbeds, the breeding habitat of the Eurasian Reed Warbler, we also collected arthropods by carrying out entomological sweepings at one of the study sites. Within the fecal samples, we identified dozens of prey species, belonging mainly to Araneae, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera and Aphidoidea taxa, whose compositions were not statistically different among sites. The commonest prey species were Coleoptera in the droppings (68.5%) and Diptera in the reedbeds (31.3%), although the latter was less numerous in the fecal samples. The diets of different Italian populations of Eurasian Reed Warbler emerging from our study underline a strong Coleopteran presence, without differences across Italy. Fecal samples appear to be an exhaustive method to study variation in Eurasian Reed Warbler diet and its ecological importance; however, although potential caveats do exist, such as the possible under-representation of Diptera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Munch biographer Rolf Stenersen asserted that Edvard Munch used the weather to modify his paintings' appearance - an artistic technique Stenersen called the horse-cure. Was Stenersen right, or did he create a myth which later became important for how Munch paintings are preserved and disseminated? To investigate Stenersen's assertion, and as a part of a larger study of this topic, 65 paintings that Munch intended to sell in 1906-07 were examined. The purpose was to find out if any of them had been weathered. The sources for this study were the inventory and photos that Commeter'sche Kunsthandlung in Hamburg made for the paintings it had in commission for Munch in 1906, and the correspondence between Commeter'sche and Munch. Several of the paintings were in poor condition. They had common damages, such as tears, and uncommon anomalies, such as bird droppings, ambiguous spots, premature paint losses, and tidelines. It is argued for that these damages and anomalies are due to improper and careless transport, handling, and storage, and not a result of an intended modification of the paintings appearance by weathering. The conclusion is that the paintings Munch intended to sell in 1906 - 07 had not been weathered, and that Stenersen's assertation about a horse-cure should not be emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sound disturbance and bird droppings in buildings are a problem for building managers. Bird droppings are quite difficult to remove and cause damage to the walls and aesthetics, especially the trend in the use of building roofs as a rooftop for productive activities. This study proposes the use of RCWL motion sensors for motion detection and the resulting output is the sound of eagles from speakers and ultrasonic speakers. The tool was developed based on internet of things using an arduino nano ATMega 328 microcontroller, connection and data transmission using SIM800L and GSM modules and power supply using a solar panel power bank. The test results show that the RCWL motion sensor is quite optimal in the detection of more than or equal to 3 birds. Sound output and the resulting waves are able to prevent birds from alighting and nesting.

The purpose of the present study was to determine the diet of the insectivorous bird guild through the analysis of excreta and insect collection. From August 2018 to January 2019, search-intensive, branch cutting-shaking, mist-netting, scat analysis and insect identification were applied. Richness (Jacknife1), similarity (Jaccard) and diversity (Shannon-Wiener) were determined. Kruskal-Wallis, X², Poisson regression analysis (PRA) and canonical correspondence (CCA) were applied. Jacknife1 shows a mean of 39 families. Jaccard shows a similarity of 19.88 %. Shannon-Wiener shows a diversity of H' = 3.09. Kruskal-Wallis shows differences in richness (0.0423*) and diversity (0.0148*). The X² test shows that the richness of insect families theoretically present was not recorded (P < 0.05). PRAs show that six orders, two families, two insect types (cut and shake); one order, one family and one item (feces) have an effect on bird abundance. The CCAs show the conformation of seven (cutting and shaking) and six (feces) groups that show relationships between birds and the orders, families, insect type and items recorded. Trophic sympatry is exhibited in some of the birds recorded, favoring the biological control of pest and parasitic insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistant bacteria in bird droppings are an emerging problem of public health concern. This study investigated the antibiotic resistance pattern of some bacteria isolated from different poultry droppings. Twenty grams (20g) of each sample of bird droppings were obtained from chickens, guinea fowls and turkeys. Bacteria were isolated using cultural techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out using disk diffusion methods against the bacterial isolates. The following Gram positive and negative bacteria were isolated; Escherichia coli (26.7%), followed by Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella dysenteriae and Staphylococcus aureus (13.3%) respectively, Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and S. epidermidis accounted for 6.7% respectively. The Gram negative bacteria showed 100% susceptibility to Streptomycin, Gentamycin and Ciprofloxacin, followed by Chloramphenicol (83.3%), Cotrimoxazole and Perfloxacin (66.7%), Ofloxacin (50%) and the least was Amoxicillin (33.3%). Moreover, the Gram negative bacteria showed highest resistance against Augmentin (66.7%), followed by Ofloxacin (50%), Cotrimoxazole, and Perfloxacin (33.3%), and then least resistance to Chloramphenicol (16.7%).Similarly, the Gram positive bacteria showed 100% susceptibility to Streptomycin, Gentamycin, Ciprofloxacin, Cefuroxime and Perfloxacin. However, the highest percentage resistance was observed against Cotrimoxazole (50%). In conclusion, this study isolated some potentially resistant bacteria from the various samples of bird droppings. Contamination by these bird droppings may endanger the health of animals, humans and the environment as a whole. This study suggests that poultry farmers be educated about the dangers of giving medications to their birds and the significance of safe bird droppings disposal.

Feed additive was derived from poultry manure by microbiological synthesis. After a 10-day feeding poultry with probiotic strains of bacteria B. subtilis TNP-3 and B. subtilis TNP-5, the litter does not contain potential enteropathogens and can be used as a raw material for feed additive. Based on the results of microbiological and biochemical studies the technology of feed additive (powder) with the use of extrusion was developed. Extrusion at a temperature of up to 120 °C for 5-6 seconds provides presence of beneficial bacteria and significantly high content of essential amino acids. According to the results of biochemical studies, litter feed additive contains 18 free amino acids. The total concentration of free amino acids in the feed additive (powder) is 406.3 mg/kg, which is 1.7 times higher than that in the litter without fermentation and extrusion. The experiments have shown that inclusion of 3.3% feed additive in the diet does not have negative effect on physiological state, viability and productivity of laying hens. Survival of birds in both groups was 100%. Additive application in the experimental group of chickens revealed absence of opportunistic pathogenic microorganisms and microscopic fungi, presence of bifidobacteria and spore-forming aerobic Bacillus bacteria in powder, as well as predominance of beneficial micro flora and lack of potential enteropathogens (compared to control). It allows to conclude that feed additive obtained by microbiological synthesis from bird droppings possess probiotic properties. The results of biochemical study of egg production indicate that the use of food additives (to 3.3% of the basic diet) for laying hens significantly increases content of major micro and macro-elements in eggs, compared to the control. Therefore, the use of feed additive-powder (up to 3.3% of the basic diet) does not reduce egg quality. Thus, based on the results of these studies, it can be concluded that the litter obtained from laying hens, after application of probiotic ‘Nord-Bakt’, further fermentation with strains Bacillus subtilis TNP-3 and Bacillus subtilis TNP-5, followed by extrusion can be used as a feed additive as a source of amino acids and beneficial bacteria.

On account of the growing interest in the fuel and energy complex of Ukraine to efficient use of renewable energy resources in order to supplement and replace the traditional fossil energy sources, there is a need for an objective analysis and evaluation of available renewable resources to generate the heat and electricity. One such alternative energy source is biogas. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the technically achievable energy potential of biogas of Ukraine, which can be obtained from animal waste and from landfills of solid household waste. The objectives of the study are, first, an analysis of the livestock and poultry population and the mass of municipal solid waste in Ukraine as a resource base for renewable energy sources; second, to calculate the technically achievable energy potential of biogas obtained as a result of the energy conversion of the biomass used. The analysis of the livestock and poultry population and the mass of municipal solid waste shows that the largest number of livestock is kept in farms in Poltava, Cherkasy and Chernihiv regions, the smallest one is in Zakarpattia region. The largest number of pigs in Ukraine is in the Donetsk and Kiev regions, the smallest one is in the Transcarpathian and Luhansk regions. With regard to municipal waste, the largest amount was generated in Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk and Kyiv regions, the smallest one is in Kherson, Lugansk and Volyn regions. The biogas energy potential calculations were performed using the mathematical relationships known and adapted to quantify biogas energy potential from animal manure (or poultry manure) and from the organic component of landfills. An estimation of the technically achievable energy potential of biogas (the amount of energy in terms of conventional fuel which can be obtained from the of biomass available for energy conversion in existing energy generating installations with characteristic technical and economic parameters) from the manure of animals or the breeding of poultry their different types (cattle, pigs, chickens) and from solid waste household waste landfills were conducted both in each oblast and in Ukraine as a whole. According to the estimation the technically available energy potential of biogas of Ukraine is 1.6 mln tons of fuel equivalent, or 1.1 mln tons of oil equivalent. The scale of possible utilization of technically available energy potential of biogas by regions of Ukraine is represented by the table 2. Most of all due to the use of this potential it is possible to reduce the consumption of organic fuel in Kharkiv, Vinnitsa, Cherkasy, Dnipropetrovsk and Kyiv regions, where it is 98 ... 269 thousand tons of fuel equivalent, or 69…188 thousand tons of oil equivalent. The prospect of further research is to evaluate the scale of energy use of Ukraine's biomass and to calculate the estimated capacity of future bioenergy plants.

Agriculture in many regions of the world has reduced bird habitat and abundance, and altered avian community structure. A study was conducted on an organic research farm over two winters (Oct to Mar) in an intensive agricultural region of Salinas Valley, CA to determine how cover crop variety and planting density influenced birds. Cover crops were rye (Secale cereale), a mixture of rye and legumes (Vicia spp., Pisum sativum), and a mustard mixture (Brassica juncea, Sinapis alba). White-crowned Sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophyrs), Savannah Sparrows (Passerculus sandwichensis) and Song Sparrows (Melospiza melodia) were observed both years in the study field. Bird droppings in cover crops were quantified and dissected to determine dietary preferences, and sparrow movement when flushed was determined. Dropping number and weight per m2 were at least 10 times greater in mustard than in rye and in the legume-rye mixture. Droppings were dominated by leaf tissue in mustard vs. arthropod tissue in rye and legume-rye. Within cover crop variety, plant density did not have a clear or consistent effect on sparrows. Sparrows flushed from cover crops usually settled in mustard. The White-crowned Sparrow fed on mustard leaves and apparently on weed foliage under mustard. The arthropod-dominated droppings in rye and legume-rye cover crops were consistent with the food preferences of Song and Savannah Sparrows. The White-crowned Sparrow's clear preference for mustard cover crops is likely due in part to their high dietary needs for sulfur-rich amino acids during the prenuptual molt. This paper provides novel information to help farmers and others understand the cover crop preferences of sparrows, and ways that farmers might use mustard cover crops as trap crops to reduce White-crowned Sparrow feeding damage on winter and spring vegetable crops. It also provides evidence of ecosystems services that these sparrows provide by feeding on weed tissue in winter cover crops.

The power output of the solar-photovoltaic (SPV) array is affected significantly by non-uniformly incident solar radiation. Such non-uniform illumination (NUI) condition(s) occur due to shadows of terrestrial structures (like buildings, trees, etc.) or through the creation of hotspot(s) in the contribution of moisture-dust accumulation, bird droppings, etc. which are predictable in nature. Furthermore, projected images of cloud(s) also cause NUI impact which is unpredictable and is/are subject to variables such as 3-D cloud coverage, cloud density, wind speed, etc. Literature also affirms that SPV array architecture plays a critical role in NUI effect mitigation. The novelty of this paper is the introduction of switching network system with the flexibility in the arrangement of the SPV panel series–parallel connections as per solar light intensity, NUI pattern, and data obtained from panel's peripheral light sensors. The field programmable reconfiguration strategy proposed here will get the power vs voltage curve and current vs voltage curve to identify maximum power-point. Multiple NUI patterns are simulated in MATLAB with variance in SPV array matrix and peripheral sensor matrix. This proposed reconfiguration method is cost-effective and includes embedded devices that could be widely implemented for domestic as well as commercial applications with the nested sub-array scheme.

The power output of the solar-photovoltaic (SPV) array is affected significantly by non-uniformly incident solar radiation. Such non-uniform illumination (NUI) condition(s) occur due to shadows of terrestrial structures (like buildings, trees, etc.) or through the creation of hotspot(s) in the contribution of moisture-dust accumulation, bird droppings, etc. which are predictable in nature. Furthermore, projected images of cloud(s) also cause NUI impact which is unpredictable and is/are subject to variables such as 3-D cloud coverage, cloud density, wind speed, etc. Literature also affirms that SPV array architecture plays a critical role in NUI effect mitigation. The novelty of this paper is the introduction of switching network system with the flexibility in the arrangement of the SPV panel series–parallel connections as per solar light intensity, NUI pattern, and data obtained from panel's peripheral light sensors. The field programmable reconfiguration strategy proposed here will get the power vs voltage curve and current vs voltage curve to identify maximum power-point. Multiple NUI patterns are simulated in MATLAB with variance in SPV array matrix and peripheral sensor matrix. This proposed reconfiguration method is cost-effective and includes embedded devices that could be widely implemented for domestic as well as commercial applications with the nested sub-array scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic fungus predominately found in soils enriched with bird and bat excreta. Although several cases of histoplasmosis have been reported in India, diagnosis using cytology has been done in very few cases. Case presentation We report here a case of disseminated histoplasmosis in a 46-year-old Indian man. Conclusion Skin scrape cytology is a simple, safe, and rapid technique to establish the initial diagnosis, thus promoting early treatment and favorable outcome, in cutaneous fungal infections.

With the continuous development of our national economy, human beings have become more aware of the ecological environment protection. Due to the rapid increase of species and numbers of birds in high altitude, frequent external insulation accidents occur in high-voltage power transmission and transformation projects. In order to reduce the occurrence of bird injury and improve the reliability of line operation, this article analyses the trajectory of guano drop through experiments and simulations and analyses the status of bird droppings. First, the status quo of bird damage caused by accident is analysed. Second, the simulation of bird droppings is carried out by using MATLAB. After considering the viscoelastic properties of bird droppings, the simulation result is very similar to the drop trajectory of bird droppings. Finally, the shape is analysed.

Background. A method of obtaining microfertilizer, in which the fertilizer is obtained by the joint processing of humates of allkali metals and salts of trace elements in the solid phase, followed by mechanochemical activation of the mixture in the presence of an oxidizing agent (potassium permanganate) and an alkaline agent. However, this method is considered economically impractical from the point of view of the complexity of the technological design and, as a consequence, the need to purchase expensive equipment [1]. The objective of this work is to develop a method for producing a chelated polymer-containing microfertilizers, which reduces the cost of the process, improves the quality of the finished product and partially solves the issue of recycling technogenic waste. Purpose. Studying the process of obtaining chelated polymer-containing microfertilizers based on technogenic waste. Methodology. The chemical composition of raw materials and the yield of humic acid determined using SEM and IR spectrum. Originality. A method has been developed for the preparation of chelated polymer-containing microfertilizers based on phosphorus sludge - waste phosphorus production and bird droppings, and humic acid is used as a solvent using SAS «OGSPlast» surfactant as a chelating agent with trace elements. Finlings. It was established that mainly in the presence of chelated polymer-containing microfertilizers is formed in the form of an amorphous structure with a partial appearance of crystallization structures, it is also determined that microfertilizers obtained are characterized by a high content of humic substances that are involved in the structure of the soil, the accumulation of nutrients and trace elements in plants accessible to plants form, contribute to the regulation of geochemical metal flows in water and soil ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare effects of two biostimulating substances (compost and bird droppings) on the proliferation of microorganisms, enzymatic activity, and resistance of spring barley in soil exposed to tebuconazole fungicide. Both biostimulating substances were also assessed for their efficacy in tebuconazole degradation in soil. Materials and methods: A pot vegetation experiment was performed with soil belonging to the Eutric Cambisols to test the effect of tebuconazole on the biological activity of soil. Its adverse effect on the biological properties of soil was minimized through the use of biostimulating substances (compost and bird droppings), the effect of which was expressed with the IFC/BD index. The RCh index was used to determine the effect of tebuconazole on the proliferation of soil microorganisms and enzymes, the BA21 index was used to express soil fertility based on the activity of soil enzymes, whereas the RS index—to express the resistance of spring barley to the administered doses of tebuconazole. Finally, analyses were conducted to determine the efficacy of soil amendment with biostimulating substances in tebuconazole degradation. Results and discussion: Study results demonstrate that tebuconazole caused significant changes in the proliferation of the tested groups of microorganisms, in the activity of soil enzymes, and in spring barley yield. It was especially noticeable in pots in which the soil was exposed to its highest dose, i.e., 2.499 mg kg−1. Soil supplementation with bird droppings had a positive effect on the development of soil microorganisms and on the enzymatic activity in the soil. In turn, compost addition to soil exerted various effects on the biological properties of soil. Both biostimulating substances failed to improve spring barley yield. Tebuconazole degradation was more intense in the soil fertilized with bird droppings than with compost. Conclusions: Results of this study suggest that tebuconazole can affect the stability and health status of soil ecosystems by modifying their biological properties. The high sensitivity of soil microorganisms and enzymes to stress conditions makes them reliable environmental bioindicators. The strive for eliminating the adverse impact of fungicides on soil microbiome through the use of appropriate remediation methods, like, e.g., biostimulation, is of greater concern from the ecological perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bird fecal matter is considered a potential source of pathogenic microbes such as yeast species that contaminate the environment. Therefore, it needs to be scrutinized to assess potential environmental health risks. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of the yeasts in pigeon fecal droppings, their antifungal susceptibility patterns, and virulence factors. We used culturing techniques to detect the yeasts in pigeon fecal droppings. The isolates were then characterized based on colony morphologies, microscopic examinations, and biochemical reactions. The molecular identification of all yeast isolates was performed by sequencing of the amplified ITS gene. Genes encoding virulence factors CAP1, CAP59, and PLB were also detected. Antifungal susceptibility patterns were examined by the disk diffusion method. A total of 46 yeast-like isolates were recovered, and they belonged to nine different genera, namely, Cryptococcus, Saccharomyces, Rhodotorula, Candida, Meyerozyma, Cyberlindnera, Rhodosporidium, Millerozyma, and Lodderomyces. The prevalence of two genera Cryptococcus and Rhodotorula was high. None of the yeast isolates exhibited any resistance to the antifungal drugs tested; however, all pathogenic Cryptococcus species were positive for virulence determinants like urease activity, growth at 37°C, melanin production, the PLB and CAP genes. This is the first report on the molecular diversity of yeast species, particularly, Cryptococcus species and their virulence attributes in pigeon fecal droppings in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effects of bird droppings on mercury pollution levels in soil, specifically on the speciation and total concentration of mercury (Hg) in soil from Tongli Wetland, East China. Thirty soil samples and four bird dropping samples were collected from Tongli Wetland along with fifteen eggshells and five feathers from Heron Branch birds. Results indicated that bird droppings affect local soil's physic-chemical properties and Hg accumulation. Additionally, heron feathers were found to contain more total mercury (HgT) than their eggshells. Hg concentration in soil that is affected by bird dropping was determined to be 0.194±0.026 mg/kg; concentration in soil without bird droppings was 0.104±0.039 mg/kg. Therefore, HgT concentration in the former exceeded that of the latter (86.54%). Numerical analysis revealed that concentrations of water-soluble (F1), acid-soluble (F2), alkali-soluble (F3), hydrogen peroxide-soluble (F4), and residual mercury (F5) in soil that is affected by bird dropping were higher in soil that isn't affected by bird droppings. However, concentrations of F1 remained mostly stable. We found a positive correlation between Hg concentrations in soil and excrement and concentrations of total carbon (Ctot), total nitrogen (Ntot), and hydrogen (H), in addition to an exponential proportional relationship between C/N and Hg/C. We concluded that fresh bird droppings in soil may promote mercury enrichment. Furthermore, bird droppings and highly decomposed humus increase soil HgT concentration when they remain in soil for an extended period of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuous development of our national economy, human beings have become more aware of the ecological environment protection. Due to the rapid increase of species and numbers of birds in high altitude, frequent external insulation accidents occur in high-voltage power transmission and transformation projects. In order to reduce the occurrence of bird injury and improve the reliability of line operation, this article analyses the trajectory of guano drop through experiments and simulations and analyses the status of bird droppings. First, the status quo of bird damage caused by accident is analysed. Second, the simulation of bird droppings is carried out by using MATLAB. After considering the viscoelastic properties of bird droppings, the simulation result is very similar to the drop trajectory of bird droppings. Finally, the shape is analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

997 Munch paintings from Edvard Munch’s estate (The Ekely Collection) were examined to evaluate the ‘Kill-or-Cure’ theory; that Munch exposed paintings to the weather in order to change their appearance. The findings were related to written sources, photo­graphs and Munch’s exhibition strategies. The conclusion is that Munch most likely did not use the weather as an artistic instrument, and that the condition of many of the paintings in The Ekely Collection is due to practical circumstances, poor storage, and the artist’s extraordinary negligence.

Highlights • Biochar and poultry manure alone, and in combination, improved soil properties, leaf nutrient concentrations and radish yield. • In 2016, the application of biochar alone increased yield of radish, but in 2015 it only increased soil pH and organic matter. • There was a significant interaction effect of biochar and poultry manure (B x PM). • For a short season crop like radish, expected benefit of B alone without addition of PM may not be achieved within the first year. Abstract Studies on the effect of biochar and poultry manure on soil properties and radish productivity is rare, hence, field experiments were conducted over two years, 2015 and 2016, to evaluate the effects of biochar (B) and poultry manure (PM) on soil properties, leaf nutrient concentrations and root yield of radish (Raphanus sativus L.). Each year, the experiment consisted of 3 × 3 factorial combinations of biochar (0, 25 and 50 t ha−1) and poultry manure (0, 2.5 and 5.0 t ha−1). Application of B and PM alone, and in combination, improved soil physical and chemical properties, leaf nutrient concentrations and yield components of radish. In 2016, the application of B alone increased the soil pH and concentrations of organic matter, N, P, K, Ca and Mg, as well as leaf nutrient concentrations and yield of radish, but in 2015 it only increased soil pH and organic matter and not leaf nutrient concentrations and yield. In both years, the application of B significantly influenced the root length of the radish. In both years, there was a significant interaction effect of biochar and poultry manure (B × PM) and this was attributed to the ability of the B to increase the efficiency of the utilization of the nutrients in the PM. The combination of 50 t ha−1 B and 5 t ha−1 PM (B 50 + PM 5) resulted in the highest radish yield. Averaged over the two years, (B 50 + PM 5) increased the root weight of radish by 192, 250 and 257% compared with biochar alone at 50 t ha−1, biochar alone at 25 t ha−1 and no application of B or PM (control). Therefore, for a short season crop like radish the expected benefit of the biochar alone without the addition of poultry manure may not be achieved within the first year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Asian Gyps vulture species are gradually recovering from the devastating effect of diclofenac being present in contaminated carcasses. This drug was responsible for the death of over 10 million vultures in India, Nepal and Pakistan. To prevent the extinction of vultures, meloxicam was introduced after the ban of veterinary diclofenac. Meloxicam's safety in vultures was attributed to its short elimination half-life in contrast with diclofenac. The reason for the rapid elimination of meloxicam is yet to be explained. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of biotransformation in the elimination of meloxicam. Six Cape griffon vultures (Gyps coprotheres) were treated with 2 mg/kg meloxicam intramuscularly for faecal and plasma quantification of meloxicam concentration over time. In the plasma meloxicam was characterised by a half-life, mean residence time, clearance and volume of distribution at steady state of 0.37 ± 0.10 h, 0.90 ± 0.12 h, 0.02 ± 0.00 l/h kg and 0.02 ± 0.00 l/kg respectively (presented as geometric mean). Over the 24 h monitoring period, the total non-metabolised meloxicam in the faeces was 1.35 ± 0.71% of the total concentration in the plasma. Based on the short meloxicam elimination half-life and low cumulative concentration of total faecal meloxicam over a period in excess of 10 half-lives, this study indicates that Cape griffon vultures are efficient metaboliser of meloxicam, which is suggestive of different set of cytochrome enzymes being involved in the metabolism to that for diclofenac in this species. Identification of orthologous human CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 enzyme families in vultures will be an important further step in explaining the differences in the metabolic pathway(s) of meloxicam and diclofenac for the species. Highlights • Develop and validate a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for the quantification of meloxicam in vulture faeces. • Evaluate pharmacokinetic parameter of meloxicam in Cape vulture 10 h post administration using HPLC. • Evaluate faecal concentration of non-metabolised meloxicam 24 h post administration using HPLC method. • Investigate the reason (s) for meloxicam safety in old world vultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic co-digestion of poultry droppings (PD) and briquetted wheat straw (BWS) with alkali additive in the form of KOH (BWS add ) or without any additive (BWS raw ) was conducted using continuously stirred tank reactors (CSTRs) under both mesophilic (35 °C) and thermophilic (53 °C) conditions. The aims of the study were to compare 1) co-digestion of PD and BWS versus mono-digestion of PD; 2) co-digestion of PD and BWS with or without additives; and 3) mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion (AD). Co-digestion of PD and BWS was superior to mono-digestion of PD in terms of gas production. Co-digestion of PD with BWS add at thermophilic temperatures resulted in a higher methane volumetric yield per kg substrate compared to mesophilic conditions. With and without additive, co-digestion with BWS produced 8% and 11% higher yields at thermophilic conditions than at mesophilic conditions. Co-digestion of PD with BWS add resulted in, respectively, 14% and 27% more methane produced at mesophilic and thermophilic conditions over mono-digestion of PD. When mono-digesting PD, the mesophilic temperature was superior to the thermophilic since methane yield was higher in the mesophilic temperature regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few decades, studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiota strongly influences the physiology, behavior, and fitness of its host. Such studies have been conducted primarily in humans and model organisms under controlled laboratory conditions. More recently, researchers have realized the importance of placing host-associated microbiota studies into a more ecological context; however, few non-destructive methods have been established to collect fecal samples from wild birds. Here, we present an inexpensive and easy-to-use kit for the non-invasive collection of feces from small birds. The portability of the collection kit makes this method amenable to field studies, especially those in remote areas. The main components of the collection kit include a flat-bottomed paper bag, a large modified weigh boat (tray), vinyl-coated hardware cloth fencing (grate), a clothespin, and a 10% bleach solution (to sterilize the tray and grate). In the paper bag, a sterile tray is placed under a small grate, which prevents the birds from contacting the feces and reduces the risk of contamination. After capture, the bird is placed in the bag for 3-5 min until it defecates. After the bird is removed from the bag, the tray is extracted and the fecal sample is moved to a collection tube and frozen or preserved. We believe that our method is an affordable and easy option for researchers studying the gut microbiota of wild birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine changes in the digestibility of fat and individual fatty acids during the growth of Japanese quails. The study was conducted on 48 female Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) from hatching to 6th week of life. All quails were fed ad libitum granulated commercial diets. The chemical composition and fatty acid content of the diets and faecal samples were determined and the coefficient of total tract apparent individual fatty acids digestibility and fat digestibility was calculated. There were no significant age differences in protein, fibre and ash content in faecal. Fat content decreased with the age of the birds. During the whole growth the faecal comprised mainly the C18:2n-6, 18:1n-9, C16:0, and C18:0 acids. However, the faecal fatty acids content was affected by age - in older birds more C10:0 and C14:0, and less C16:1, C18:1, C18:2 and C20:4 acids were found. The digestibility of most of fatty acids was high, except for C18:0, C20:0, and C18:1n-7. The digestibility of linoleic acid was increasing with age, from 0.70 to 0.89, while the digestibility of linoleic acid remained at similar, high level (>0.93) during the growth. C20:4n-6 was higher until 4th week of life in faecal than taken with diet. This may indicate that when quails are young this fatty acid deposited in the body comes from the conversion of C18:2n-6 and the dietary one is excreted. The high conversion on n-6 pathway, connected with high digestibility of C18:3n-3 may suggest that possible fatty acids modification, for example by addition of n-3 to the diet, should be made when birds are young, which can end up with a better n-6/n-3 ratio in body/tissues. Additionally, the SFA digestibility increases with age, so PUFA/SFA ratio could be better in young animals. However, if most of the enzymes in young animals are used for n-6 conversions, the conversion of n-3, C18:3n-3 to C20:5n3, can be inhibited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses reports on the prevalence of histoplasmosis outbreaks around the world caused by the pathogenic fungus histoplasma capsulatum (HC). The natural history and fungal biology as well as the presence of HC in bird droppings are also discussed. Health risk assessment of histoplasmosis are mentioned.

Following an environmental infertility crisis, guano fertilisation became an important part of Cape colonial agriculture in the nineteenth century. Collected from various offshore islands, guanopreneurs initially exported the product directly to its main markets in Europe and America. Because of a strong local demand for state-subsidised guano, a central storage facility for mixing and dispatch was established in Cape Town in 1890. In addition, a number of guano depots were established in the principal wheat-growing areas of the Colony. Because of guano’s obnoxious smell and the dust created by its mixing, it soon acquired status as an urban nuisance at a time that fear of miasmic diseases persisted. Urban dwellers with a heightened awareness of plagues and other infectious diseases also demanded the removal and closure of the various storage facilities. Farmers naturally resisted this call as contrary to their interests and forced the Cape government and legislature as the owners of the guano stores and the elected representatives of all citizens, to mediate. This article traces the discourse, compromises, convergence and resolution of the issues against the background of the struggle for a proper public health system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An account is given, including a larval description, of Monopis crocicapitella (Clemens, 1859) being reared from case-bearing larvae found feeding on bat droppings in Devon, England. Although there have been three notes in the British literature recording the larva as a case-bearer, these appear to have been overlooked in subsequent publications. There has been no prior report of the larva feeding on bat droppings in the British Isles, nor any larval description based on British observations. We consider records made both within and outside the British Isles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expansion of penguin activity in maritime Antarctica, under ice thaw, increases the chances of penguin feces affecting soil microbiomes. The detail of such effects begins to be revealed. By comparing soil geochemistry and microbiome composition inside (one site) and outside (three sites) of the rookery, we found significant effects of penguin feces on both. First, penguin feces change soil geochemistry, causing increased moisture content (MC) of ornithogenic soils and nutrients C, N, P, and Si in the rookery compared to non-rookery sites, but not pH. Second, penguin feces directly affect microbiome composition in the rookery, not those outside. Specifically, we found 4,364 operational taxonomical units (OTUs) in 404 genera in six main phyla: Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Bacteroidetes. Although the diversity is similar among the four sites, the composition is different. For example, penguin rookery has a lower abundance of Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Nitrospirae but a higher abundance of Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Thermomicrobia. Strikingly, the family Clostridiaceae of Firmicutes of penguin-feces origin is most abundant in the rookery than non-rookery sites with two most abundant genera, Tissierella and Proteiniclasticum. Redundancy analysis showed all measured geochemical factors are significant in structuring microbiomes, with MC showing the highest correlation. We further extracted 21 subnetworks of microbes which contain 4,318 of the 4,364 OTUs using network analysis and are closely correlated with all geochemical factors except pH. Our finding f penguin feces, directly and indirectly, affects soil microbiome suggests an important role of penguins in soil geochemistry and microbiome structure of maritime Antarctica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]