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Axisymmetric contact problems on the interaction of a rigid stamp and a poroelastic layer, the bottom boundary of which is located on a Winkler base, were considered based on the equations of the Cowin–Nunziato theory of poroelastic bodies. It was assumed that the base of the cylindrical stamp has the flat or parabolic shape and there is no friction in the contact area. With the help of the Hankel integral transformation, the problems posed were reduced to the integral equations for an unknown contact stresses, which were solved with the use of the collocation methods, while the transformants of the kernels of the integral equations were obtained in explicit form. The values of contact stresses and size of the contact area in the case of the parabolic stamp were determined. The relationship, which is one of the main characteristics, when determining the mechanical parameters of a material by the indentation method, between the force acting on the stamp and its displacement, was studied. A comparative analysis of the studied quantities for various values of the poroelastic parameters and the coefficient of subgrade resistance of the Winkler base was carried out. The model of contact interaction considered and the solution obtained can be used in calculation of the structures foundations located on ground bases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) poses a significant global threat to the respiratory and reproductive systems of poultry, yet its prevalence and impact in specific regions, such as northern Thailand, remain understudied. This study is the first comprehensive assessment of aMPV seroprevalence among layer hens in the region. By the application of Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), our findings reveal a high overall seroprevalence of 60.78%, with significantly higher rates among post-laying hens (70.87%) compared to pre-laying hens (47.02%). Regional variations were noted, Uttaradit province showing the highest seroprevalence at 74%. Factors such as overcrowded conditions and poor farm hygiene were implied as contributors to increased seropositivity. Comparison with global studies highlights aMPV’s endemicity and emphasizes the need for targeted surveillance and biosecurity measures. Migratory birds were inferred as potential vectors, contributing to the spread of aMPV across different regions. This study provides crucial epidemiological data essential for optimizing vaccination strategies and enhancing disease management practices to safeguard poultry health and sustainable production in northern Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the impact of degreasing temperature in the degreasing mixture PRAGOLOD 57N on cataphoretic painting using design of experiments (DoE). Key technological factors such as degreasing deposition time, concentration, cataphoretic deposition time, and voltage are examined for their effect on the thickness of the formed anti-corrosion layer. Cataphoretic painting, an economical and eco-friendly method, is widely used for treating metal parts in automotive and engineering industries. The study involves testing 88 samples, with thickness measurements taken via Elcometer 456C according to the ISO standards and graphical analysis performed using statistical software to optimize the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: There is a high demand for eggs in developing countries. Poultry feed is expensive; thus, farmers cannot afford to buy commercial feed. Therefore, it is important to explore the qualities of potential new feed materials for egg production. Desmodium tortuosum is a common weed in sub-Saharan Africa. These feed materials can be used for supplementing laying hen diets. Three hundred hens were used for 13 weeks. Two control groups received diet W, based on white corn, or diet Y containing yellow corn. The other groups received a diet based on white corn supplemented with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour at 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, or 10%. Diets supplemented with Desmodium improved laying performance and yolk color at a reduced feed cost per egg but had no effect on cholesterol content. The inclusion of Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour in a white corn-based diet for laying hens is effective in lowering feed cost, increasing egg production, and improving yolk color. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects on laying performance, egg quality traits, color, and composition of supplementing a white corn-based diet with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour. Three hundred 32-week-old hens were distributed to 30 pens of 10 hens each and allocated to six dietary treatments (five replicates per treatment) for 13 weeks. Two control groups of 50 hens received one of either diet Y, based on yellow corn, or diet W, based on white corn. The other groups received a diet based on white corn supplemented with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour at 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, or 10% (diet D). Diet D improved laying performance and yolk color at a reduced feed cost per egg but had no effect on cholesterol content. In conclusion, the inclusion of Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour, in a white corn-based diet, is effective in lowering feed cost, increasing egg production, and improving yolk color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A numerical simulation of an unsteady gas flow containing inert solid particles in a shock tube is carried out using the interpenetrating continuum model. The gas and dispersed phases are characterized by governing equations that express the concepts of mass, momentum, and energy conservation as well as an equation that shows the change of the volume fraction of the dispersed phase. Using a Godunov-type approach, the hyperbolic governing equations are solved numerically with an increased order of accuracy. The working section of the shock tube containing air and solid particles of various sizes is considered. The shock wave structure is discussed and computational results provide the spatial and temporal dependencies of the particle concentration and other flow quantities. The numerical simulation results are compared with available experimental and computational data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial abilities of hens are particularly sensitive to development during early life. Experiences in pullet housing may have lasting consequences on adult hens movements in cage-free environments. We tested whether opportunities to access elevated spaces during rearing improved hens use of a multitiered aviary. Female Dekalb White pullets were reared in either floor pens (FL), single-tiered aviaries (ST), or 2-tiered aviaries (TT; n = 5 pens/environment) through 16 wk of age. Rearing structures were replaced with identical multitiered aviaries at 17 wk. The distribution of the flock within the aviary and the vertical transitions of 10 focal hens/pen across the aviary were determined from videos recorded during their first (D1) and seventh (D7) day of aviary access, as well as at 19, 23, and 27 wk of age. Prevalence of floor eggs was recorded weekly from 17 to 28 wk of age. On D1, more ST and TT hens utilized the aviary during the daytime (P = 0.0077), made more vertical transitions when searching for a roosting spot in the evening (P = 0.0021), and maintained a consistent distance traveled during transitions compared to FL hens (P = 0.02). These differences disappeared by D7, except that ST and TT hens continued to roost on the highest perches of the aviary more (P < 0.0001) than FL hens through 27 wk of age. FL hens laid more floor eggs than ST and TT hens for the first 2 wk of lay (P < 0.0001). The majority (97.9%) of vertical transitions was controlled. Uncontrolled transitions were highest at D1 and decreased by D7 (P = 0.0009) and were not affected by rearing (P = 0.33). The results suggest that hens reared with minimal height are hesitant to use the laying hen aviaries when they are first transferred. They acclimate within 1 to 2 wk, but continue to roost less in the highest accessible level.

In GPR (georadar) studies, one of the most popular procedures for determining electromagnetic waves propagation velocity in a rock mass is the selection of theoretical hyperbolic time-distance curves and subsequent comparison with the time-distance curve obtained from a GPR measurement. This procedure is based on the model of homogeneous medium, but nowadays the subject of GPR study is often inhomogeneous media, such as horizontally layered media characteristic of loose permafrost zone sediments. The paper presents the findings of studying the formation of hyperbolic time-distance curves of georadar impulses in a horizontally layered medium without taking into account the dispersion and absorption of electromagnetic waves. On the basis of geometrical optics laws, formulas were derived to calculate the shape of the hyperbolic lineup of georadar impulses reflected from a local feature in a multilayer frozen rock mass. On the example of a permafrost zone rock mass containing a layer of unfrozen rocks, the effect of the thicknesses of rock layers and their relative dielectric permittivity on the apparent dielectric permittivity resulting from the calculation of the theoretical hyperbolic time-distance curve was shown. The conditions under which it is impossible to determine the presence of a layer of unfrozen rocks from a hyperbolic time-distance curve are also presented. The established regularities were tested on synthetic georadar radargrams calculated in the gprMax software program. The findings of the theoretical studies were confirmed by the comparison with the results of the analysis of the georadar measurements computer simulation data in the gprMax system (the relative error was less than 0.5%).

Antimicrobial resistance has emerged as a significant health problem worldwide, including in Bangladesh, where chickens are an important protein source for human nutrition. One of the factors accelerating the development of antimicrobial resistance is the inappropriate use of antimicrobials on commercial chicken farms. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 on 140 commercial chicken farms in the Chattogram district of Bangladesh to investigate the association between antimicrobial use and resistance in Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. cultured from cloacal swabs of chickens and from the poultry shed environment. All E. coli and Salmonella spp. isolates were resistant to multiple antimicrobial classes, including those categorized as “Highest Priority Critically Important Antimicrobials” for human medicine. Notably, resistance was observed in E. coli isolates from farms that did not use these antimicrobial classes in the current production cycle. For example, although quinolones were not used on 43.9% of E. coli positive farms, 95.7% of these farms had quinolone-resistant E. coli isolates. The results of the path analysis revealed that there was a “direct effect” of the frequency of antimicrobial usage on “high” resistance, with resistance increasing when antimicrobials were administered more frequently (β  =  0.28, p  =  0.002). There was a “direct effect” of the purpose of antimicrobial use on “low” resistance, with resistance marginally decreasing when antimicrobials were administered solely for therapeutic use (β  = −0.17, p  =  0.062), but increasing when they were used prophylactically. Overall, the study results could be used to educate farmers on better practices for antimicrobial administration, and to guide government agencies to update policies on antimicrobial use and resistance surveillance in the poultry sector of Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the poultry industry, genetic selection for growth performance is associated with poor reproductive efficiency and an increase in embryo mortality. The identification of new biomarkers is essential to improve these parameters. The blastodisc, composed of blastodermal cells, undergoes cellular events to achieve embryo development. Factors such as hen's age, temperature and time of egg storage could influence the number of blastodermal cells and impair embryo development. In this study, we investigated the variability of the number of viable cells of blastodisc (NVCB) that could be dependent on the stage of laying and on the breed and potentially associated with reproductive parameters. In experimental breeds, eggs were collected during the whole cycle of laying. Then, the protocol was repeated on industrial breeds (breeder hens) during five successive days at three stages of laying (before, after laying peak and at the end of laying period) for two generations (mothers and offsprings). For each egg, the blastodisc was dissected in order to count viable cells. For both experiments, the NVCB increased during the laying cycle. The NVCB was higher in broiler blastodisc compared to layer blastodisc for both generations. For layer breed, the NVCB were negatively correlated with laying rate for the first generation while positively associated for offsprings. However, the NVCB was positively correlated with laying rates in both generations for broiler hens and with fertility and hatchability rates. The NVCB from fresh oviposited fertilised eggs could be a potential tool in predicting on reproductive performances in poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A position-sensitive detector, which is a neutron target at the same time, is presented to study the interaction reactions of fast neutrons of above 1 MeV with light nuclei, in particular, with the 10B nucleus. It contains two boron-10 layers and a system of wire electrodes to identify secondary nuclei, in particular 3H and 4He, and to determine energy loss and departure angle. Thus the neutron energy can be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is ranked as the 2nd largest egg producer in the world. Despite the prevalence of backyard poultry (free range), a majority of the commercial egglaying hens in the country are still housed in battery cages. There is a global shift toward cage-free eggs, due to regulations and increased demand from conscious consumers and food corporations. However, there are very few commercial cage-free facilities in India to meet this demand. The aim of this study was to undertake a needs-assessment survey of Indian egg producers on cage-free production, and understand what support is needed to build the capacities of the cage-free egg production sector to develop it into a viable and sustainable alternative to battery cage eggs. The results showed that nearly all producers agreed on the need for additional support in shifting to, and operating in, the cage-free sector. This included support in the form of financial assistance, technical training, and promotion of the cage-free sector. The results of this study highlight the pressing need for government and private support, in the absence of which cage-free producers are compelled to compete with battery cage poultry producers on prices, which will result in increased losses and failure of the sector, since they have not yet achieved economies of scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbonate groups were incorporated in the surface layers of nickel fabric threads, and this method was substantiated. Materials with an active carbon layer grafted to the metal with ethanolamine or sodium/potassium glycinate derivatives of PVC were synthesized based on the fabric. Their sorption capacity with respect to benzene and hexane vapors and their potential as sorption electrodes in alkaline solutions were measured. The material with a layer of ethanolamine derivatives of PVC was studied as a bipolar bridging electrode and a hydrogen- or oxygen-producing matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional and modified structures are simulated by the finite element method (FEM). In the modified structure, ten well-known add layers with complex refractive indexes (MgF2, SiO2, ITO, Si, ZnO, PLZT, GaAs, LNO, PZT, and TiN) are proposed over a thin film of gold metal. Due to the addition of the add layer, the stability of the proposed structure increases and also manipulates the performance parameters of the considered structure. Therefore, we investigated theoretically that the reflectance spectrum is a function of the incidence angle, and surface plasmon waves at the resonance angle were obtained. From the reflectance spectra, we obtained the maximum shift, i.e., 2.369° in Si, and the minimum shift, i.e., 1.484° for MgF2, from the considered add layer. Moreover, the full beam width is minimum, i.e., 5.1140°; the figure of merit is high, i.e., 27.109 a.u./RIU; detection accuracy is maximum, i.e., 0.292; and the quality factor is also high, i.e., 27.563 RIU−1 for the traditional SPR sensor among all considered structure. In addition, if we keep the complex refractive index (n + ik) of considered add layer remain constant and varying the thickness of considered add layer then the resonance angle shifts towards right angle, minimum reflectance value shift upwards, width of reflectance curve becomes broader, and penetration depth decreases. After that, the same observation is found if we keep thickness and imaginary part of complex refractive index remain constant but only real part of complex refractive index increases of considered add layer. But, when we keep the thickness of add layer and real part of complex refractive index remain constant and varying the imaginary part complex refractive index of the considered add layer then the resonance angle shifts towards right angle, minimum reflectance value decreases, and penetration depth (PD) value increases. After that, we calculated the performance parameters, i.e., field intensity at different interfaces (metal-sensing medium (M-S), metal-dielectric (M-D), and dielectric-sensing medium (D-S)), shift in resonance angle (∆θr), full beam width (FBW), sensitivity (S), detection accuracy (DA), quality factor (Q), figure of merit (FoM), and penetration depth (PD) for all the considered structures. From the obtained result, we have observed that the PD is maximum for MgF2, i.e., 2.96 nm, and minimum for GaAs, i.e., 0.26 nm, among all the structures considered. This comparative study will help to choose an add layer with a complex refractive index over a metal thin film in a SPR sensor for the detection of analytes or molecules present in the sensing medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics and antibiotic growth promoters have been extensively employed in poultry farming to enhance growth performance, maintain bird health, improve nutrient uptake efficiency, and mitigate enteric diseases at both sub-therapeutic and therapeutic doses. However, the extensive use of antimicrobials in poultry farming has led to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in microbial reservoirs, representing a significant global public health concern. In response, non-antibiotic dietary interventions, such as yeast mannan-rich fraction (MRF), have emerged as a promising alternative to modulate the gut microbiota and combat the AMR crisis. This study investigated whether a yeast mannan-rich fraction containing feed supplement impacted the performance of laying hens, their microbiomes, and the associated carriage of antimicrobial resistance genes under commercial conditions. High-throughput DNA sequencing was utilised to profile the bacterial community and assess changes in the antibiotic resistance genomes detected in the metagenome, the "resistome", in response to MRF supplementation. It was found that supplementation favourably influenced laying hen performance and microbial composition. Notably, there was a compositional shift in the MRF supplemented group associated with a lower relative abundance of pathobionts, e.g., Escherichia, Brachyspira and Trueperella, and their AMR-encoded genes, relative to beneficial microbes. Overall, the findings further demonstrate the ability of prebiotics to improve laying hen performance through changes associated with their microbiome and resistome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the problem of determining the components of the stress-strain state of a piecewise homogeneous layer under antiplane deformation, the upper face of which is reinforced by a stringer, the lower face is rigidly clamped, and a collinear system of cracks is located on the horizontal weld line of dissimilar materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Nitinol alloy is widely utilized across various industries due to its special properties. In this paper, the compound effects of two kinds of energy fields on material removal rate (MRR), hole wall quality, machining accuracy, and recast layer in ultrasonic combined magnetic field assisted EDM (UV-MFEDM were studied and analyzed. In addition, the influence of magnetic field intensity on the efficiency and accuracy of micro-hole machining is analyzed systematically. The results show that the surface quality of the micropore is significantly improved, the MRR is increased by 31.6%, the taper of the micropore is reduced by nearly 30%, the overcut diameter is reduced by nearly 23%, the recast layer is more uniform and the thickness of the recast layer is reduced by nearly half. Appropriate magnetic field intensity proves beneficial for improving micro-hole machining efficiency while reducing both taper angle and diameter overcut of micro-holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a pathogen causing respiratory, renal and reproductive clinical forms in chickens of all ages and productive categories. Its proneness to mutation and recombination gave rise to a plethora of variants differing in terms of pathogenicity, antigenicity, and distribution, with relevant implications for disease control, mainly pursued by routine vaccination, and diagnosis, requiring a steady update of molecular and serological methods. Among the most recent additions to the current phylogenetic classification, based on S1 gene sequencing, is the discovery of an eighth genotype (GVIII), further divided into lineages GVIII-1 and GVIII-2. GVIII-2, whose best-known representative is IB80, has been reported since 2015 in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Most detections occurred in layers and breeders and were possibly associated to egg production drops. However, experimental reproduction of its pathogenicity could not be achieved. The significant genetic divergence of GVIII from other genogroups prevents its detection by many of the commonly applied biomolecular tests, hampering the understanding of its spread and impact. This study describes the validation of a GVIII-specific RT-PCR assay and its application to analyze samples collected from layer farms in Italy, where the presence of this genotype has never been investigated. The in-house assay proved highly reliable and allowed to establish the circulation of GVIII-2 in the country: between April and June 2024, 11 out of 84 flocks (13.1%) in 5 out of 24 farms (20.8%) tested positive. Phylogenetically, all Italian strains clustered together, whereas their identity with IB80 was 96.8–97.7%. Reproductive signs were reported in one farm and respiratory signs in another, whereas no clinical findings were recorded in the remaining positive cases. Although no definitive conclusions are possible on their prevalence and clinical relevance, the obtained results suggest that the presence of GVIII-2 strains in Italy is neither novel nor sporadic, highlighting the need to revise diagnostic approaches and shed light on the epidemiology of this novel lineage.

A study was conducted to evaluate effect of replacing groundnut seed cake with brewers’ yeast-noug seed cake (BYNSC) mixture on laying performance of white leghorn chickens. 180 white leghorn layers (28 weeks) were used in a completely randomized design. Five treatment rations in 3 replications with 12 hens were prepared. The treatments were replacing groundnut meal (T1 (0% BYNSC + 18% groundnut cake meal), T2 (4.5% BYNSC + 13.5% groundnut cake meal), T3 (9% BYNSC + 9% groundnut cake meal), T4 (13.5% BYNSC + 4.5% groundnut cake meal) and T5 (18% BYNSC + 0% groundnut cake meal)). Daily dry matter intake was determined by subtracting ort collected from feed offered. Egg production was determined as hen-day (HDEP) and hen-housed egg production (HHEP). Crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy of BYNSC were 38.74% and 3153.07 kcal ME/kg/DM, respectively. Hens fed T3 had significantly (P 0.05) among the treatments. Hens fed T3 (2.3 ± 0.05) diet attained lowest (P

This study aims to obtain the effect of SO2 on the corrosion of Q235B low carbon steel in simulated coastal industrial atmospheres.The corrosion performance of the steel in the simulated atmospheres was studied using wet/dry cyclic corrosion test (CCT), electrochemical testing analysis, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and COMSOL finite element simulation methods. As a result the influence of SO2, the corrosion rate of Q235B steel increases rapidly in the initial stage of corrosion, and gradually decreases in the later stages, eventually stabilizing. There is a gradual increase in ferrite content on the surface of the steel during the initial stage of corrosion. In addition, the main components of the rust layer α-FeOOH and γ-FeOOH, and high concentrations of SO2 promote α-FeOOH formation and inhibit γ-FeOOH formation.

ABSTRACT: The utilization of full-fat high-oleic soybean meal in layer diets could lead to value-added poultry products. To test this idea, 336 hens were randomly assigned to 4 isonitrogenous (18.5% CP) and isocaloric (2,927 kcal/kg) formulated diets and fed the following diets for eight weeks: conventional control solvent-extracted defatted soybean meal (CON); extruded-expelled defatted soybean meal (EENO); full fat normal-oleic soybean meal (FFNO); or full fat high-oleic soybean meal (FFHO). Body weights (BW) were collected at week 0 and week 8. Eggs were collected daily, and the totals counted each week. Feed consumption was measured weekly, and egg quality was measured bi-weekly. Eggs were collected at wk 0 and wk 8 for fatty acid analysis. There were no significant treatment differences in any of the production parameters measured, BW, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio or egg production (P > 0.05). Eggshell strength was significantly greater in eggs produced from the EENO group as compared to the control (P < 0.01), while egg yolk color was significantly darker in eggs of the control and EENO treatment groups relative to the FFNO and FFHO treatments (P < 0.0001). Eggs produced by hens fed the FFHO diet had a 52% increase in monounsaturated n-9 oleic acid content (P < 0.0001) and reduced palmitic (P < 0.01) and stearic (P < 0.0001) saturated fatty acid levels as compared to the conventional controls. These results validate the utilization of FFHO as a value-added poultry feed ingredient to enrich the eggs and/or poultry meat produced.

Vaccination against Newcastle disease (ND) has been routinely implemented in the Belgian professional poultry sector since 1993, using genotype I and II vaccines. Despite this, an outbreak of genotype VII.2 avian paramyx-ovirus 1 (APMV-1) occurred in 2018, with 20 reported cases over the course of 3 months. Although the economic impact on the professional poultry sector was limited, this epizootic raised questions regarding the efficacy of implemented classical genotype I and II vaccines against phylogenetically distant exotic velogenic strains.The present study provides insights into the protective efficacy of standard vaccination programs applied in layer and broiler flocks against the introduction and transmission of this velogenic APMV-1 VII.2 strain.For fully field-vaccinated 26-week-old layer chickens, high levels of specific antibodies were measured at the time of the velogenic APMV-1 challenge, resulting in good clinical protection. However, despite the observed humoral immunity, viral excretion was not prevented, leading to transmission of the virus to non-infected sentinel birds.In fully field-vaccinated 4-week-old broiler chickens, assessment of vaccine uptake and coverage revealed low levels of ND specific antibodies despite double vaccination at day 1 and day 14. Consequently, poor protection against velogenic APMV-1 infection was observed, with both clinical signs and viral excretion occurring in both infected and sentinel birds.This study demonstrates that the introduction of velogenic APMV-1 VII.2 can lead to its dissemination among the Belgian avian poultry population despite the implementation of standard vaccination.

Diets fed to commercial chicken breeders are high in n-6 fatty acids (n-6 FAs) and low in n-3 fatty acids (n-3 FAs). N-3 FAs are essential for embryonic brain development. In precocial birds, like chickens, brain development and brain n- 3 FA accrual occur primarily before hatching. In two experiments, broiler and layer breeders were fed diets with or without flaxseed as the source of n-3 FAs from plant-based alpha-linolenic acid. Day-old broiler (n = 80) and layer (n = 96) offspring were dissected to calculate the percentage brain-to-body weight. Brain FA analyses from total lipid extracts were determined in the broiler (n = 24) and layer (n = 24) offspring brains, and the percentage FA composition and concentration (µg FAs per g brain) were calculated for each n-3 and n-6 FA. The brain size was only increased in broiler offspring from mothers fed flaxseed (χ² = 9.22, p = 0.002). In layer offspring only, the maternal flaxseed diet increased the brain concentration and percentage of n-3 FAs and decreased n-6 FAs (p < 0.05). We showed that feeding flaxseed to mothers increased the brain size in broiler offspring and altered brain FA composition in layer offspring. These results may have implications for poultry and other captive bird species fed diets low in n-3 FAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fluoride is vital in dentistry for caries prevention, enhancing remineralization, and inhibiting bacteria. Incorporating fluoride into restorative materials like glass-ionomer cements, compomers, and giomers has significantly increased fluoride availability in the oral cavity. This review assesses how surface coatings influence fluoride release from various dental restorative materials. Methods: In December 2023, we conducted electronic searches in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WoS) databases. In the Scopus database, the results were refined to titles, abstracts, and keywords, while in PubMed, they were narrowed down to titles and abstracts. In WoS, the results were refined only to abstracts. The search criteria were based on the terms fluoride AND release AND (coating OR glaze OR layer OR film OR varnish) AND (composite OR glass OR compomer), following PRISMA guidelines and the PICO framework. Twenty-three studies were rigorously selected and analyzed for fluoride release from coated versus uncoated materials. Results: Surface coatings typically reduce the rate of fluoride release. Glass-ionomer cements had the highest release, followed by giomers and compomers. The initial release was greater in uncoated materials but stabilized over time, influenced by variables like artificial saliva and deionized water. Conclusions: Surface coatings generally decrease fluoride release rates from dental materials. Although initial rates are high, contributing to caries prevention, more standardized research is needed to better understand the impact of coatings and optimize materials for maximum preventive benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Khat contains many bioactive compounds that are beneficial for chickens' health. Most of the chemical constituents found in Khat are biologically active and are used worldwide for the treatment of many diseases. However, there are few studies on the use of Khat in poultry as a nutrition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity. Therefore, the present study evaluated the effects of dried Khat leave (DKL) as a natural feed additive on the White Leghorn layer's performance, serum chemistry, and hematology. A total of 180 White Leghorn chickens, aged 168 days were randomly divided into four groups consisting of 45 chickens in three replications. Thirteen layers and two cocks were assigned to each replication and reared on a deep litter system. The diets of layers in T1, T2, T3, and T4 were supplemented by DKL at proportion of 0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.6%, respectively. The layers were evaluated for feed intake, body weight gain, egg production, feed conversion ratio, and some blood parameters, such as total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, albumin, globulin, red blood cells, hemoglobin, packed cells volume, white blood cells, and total protein. Feed intake in T1 (103.5 g) was significantly higher than T4 (98.5 g) and T3 (98.9 g). Layers in T1 significantly gained higher body weight than layers in other treatments. The use of DKL in layer chickens' diet did not affect egg production, egg mass, and feed conversion ratio. An increase in the level of DKL in the layers diet significantly reduced the serum high-density lipoprotein, cholesterol, and albumin. The present study showed that chickens that received a higher proportion of dried khat leaf (0.6%) significantly recorded lower levels of low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol in their blood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the fundamental challenge of resource sustainability and to effectively deal with issues pertaining to supply chain resilience, cost efficiency, environmental impact, and the ability to meet specific local needs; there is an urgent need for high‐grade battery anode materials produced locally from readily available raw materials. In this work, synthesis of high‐quality graphitic carbon (GH) derived from human hair is demonstrated using an in‐house engineered reactor based on Joule's Flash heating method. The GH is characterized using various techniques to examine its chemical composition, particle morphology, crystallinity, and demonstrate its usability as an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries. Fabricated coin cell with active material exhibits a gravimetric capacity of 320 mAh g−1 at a current density of 30 mA g−1 (equivalent to a C rate of ≈0.1C) over the 100 cycles. The in situ and ex situ studies using XRD, Raman, XPS, and UPS techniques conclude that during the initial charge cycle for GH, lithium ions diffused into the electrode during the resting period are effectively removed. This not only improves the lithium inventory to start with but also mitigates subsequent solvent degradation during solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation. Thus, these improvements ultimately enhance the capacity of the anode to 500mAh g−1 at a current density of 20 mA g−1. The study offers the potential to initiate a new realm of research by redirecting the focus to a material once considered as mere waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of feeding as a vital physiological function, on the one hand, and the spread of complications induced by its disorder in humans and animals, on the other hand, have led to extensive research on its regulatory factors. Unfortunately, despite many studies focused on appetite, only limited experiments have been conducted on avian, and our knowledge of this species is scant. Considering this, the purpose of this review article is to examine the role of central neurotransmitters in regulating food consumption in broilers and layers and highlight the similarities and differences between these two strains. The methodology of this review study includes a comprehensive search of relevant literature on the topic using appropriate keywords in reliable electronic databases. Based on the findings, the central effect of most neurotransmitters on the feeding of broilers and laying chickens was similar, but in some cases, such as dopamine, ghrelin, nitric oxide, and agouti-related peptide, differences were observed. Also, the lack of conducting a study on the role of some neurotransmitters in one of the bird strains made it impossible to make an exact comparison. Finally, it seems that although there are general similarities in appetite regulatory mechanisms in meat and egg-type chickens, the long-term genetic selection appropriate to breeding goals (meat or egg production) has caused differences in the effect of some neurotransmitters. Undoubtedly, conducting future studies while completing the missing links can lead to a comprehensive understanding of this process and its manipulation according to the breeding purposes of chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant extracts are natural active substances derived from plants, which have the functions of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, regulating flora. They are widely used in medicine, food and other fields. Many studies have showed that plant extracts have great beneficial effects in animal husbandry and are important green feed additives. In this paper, the research progress on application of plant extracts in laying hens was reviewed. The regulatory effects of plant polyphenols, plant polysaccharides, plant flavonoids and alkaloids on the productive performance, anti-oxidative, immune function, lipid metabolism and intestinal flora of layers were emphatically described. The purpose of this paper was to provide reference for the application in layer production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To develop criteria to predict visual hemifields with deep perimetric defects based on retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) reflectance, in a transparent process whose components can be assessed by independent laboratories analysing data from their own small groups. Methods: The analysis was carried out in four stages, using three independent groups of patients—30, 33 and 62 participants—with glaucoma and age‐similar controls. The first stage used Group 1 to develop a criterion for RNFL reflectance images at 24, 36 or 48 μm below the inner limiting membrane (ILM). The second stage evaluated the criterion using Group 2. The third stage developed a second criterion to improve performance for Groups 1 and 2 combined. The fourth stage evaluated the second criterion with Group 3. Confidence intervals for sensitivity and specificity were then computed by combining results from all three groups. Results: The first criterion identified all hemifields with deep defects and no hemifields from controls, using a within‐eye reference for healthy RNFL. For Group 2, specificity remained high but sensitivity was reduced. The second criterion improved sensitivity by using location‐specific reference values. For Group 3, sensitivity remained high but reduced specificity was found. Confidence intervals showed substantial overlap for the two criteria. Conclusions: We developed two criteria to identify patients with deep perimetric defects with high specificity and sensitivity. Several improvements are warranted: automated identification of the fovea‐disc angle and optic disc locations, evaluation of normal variation in patterns of RNFL thickness, improved segmentation of ILM and major vasculature, reduction of within‐eye variability in RNFL reflectance of healthy eyes, assessment of effects of image quality, assessment of effects of comorbidity and effectiveness of other devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective aims to investigate the effects of individual and combined supplementation of Macleaya extract and chlortetracycline in the diet on intestinal health and gut microbiota of 2-17 weeks laying hens, and to explore the anti infective effect of Macleaya extract. A total of 1 440 1-day old Hailan brown female chicks were selected and randomly divided into four treatments, with 12 replicates per treatment and 30 chickens per replicate. Four groups of chickens were fed with basic diet, basic diet + 500 mg/kg Macleaya extract, basic diet + 50 mg/kg chloramphenicol, and basic diet+500 mg/kg Macleaya extract + 50 mg/kg chloramphenicol. The experiment lasted for a total of 17 weeks, with basic feed being fed for 1-7 days. Starting from the 8th day, feeding of chick rearing period feed was carried out. Starting from the seventh and 13th weeks, feeding of early and late stage feed was carried out, respectively. The results indicate that: compared with the control group, the MCE group showed a decrease in the comprehensive small intestine score at six weeks (P<0.05); the combined group showed a decrease in the comprehensive small intestine score at six weeks and the duodenal and ileal scores at 17 weeks (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the Simpson index and relative abundance of Firmicutes in the MCE group increased (P<0.05), while the relative abundance of Rikenellaceae decreased (P<0.05); the Chao1 index and relative abundance of Rikenellaceae in the CC group decreased, while the Simpson index and relative abundance of Prevotellaceae increased (P<0.05); the combination group showed an increase in Simpson's index (P<0.05). Compared with the three experimental groups, the ACE index and Chao1 index of the MCE group and the combination group were significantly higher than those of the CC group (P<0.05), while the relative abundance of Prevotellaceae in the combination group was significantly lower than that in the CC group (P<0.05). From this, it can be seen that MCE can reduce small intestine score, improve the microbiota structure of the cecum, and be beneficial for maintaining intestinal health and microbial balance. Its effect is significantly better than CC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transmission and reflection of a pulse wave in a porous medium with a layer of a fractured porous medium under normal and oblique incidence is numerically investigated. The study was carried out using a two-velocity model of a porous medium and a three-velocity model of a fractured porous medium. "Opened pores" condition was used on the "porous medium–fractured porous medium" interface. The problem is considered in a two-dimensional formulation. The features of this wave process are revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance has emerged as a significant health problem worldwide, including in Bangladesh, where chickens are an important protein source for human nutrition. One of the factors accelerating the development of antimicrobial resistance is the inappropriate use of antimicrobials on commercial chicken farms. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 on 140 commercial chicken farms in the Chattogram district of Bangladesh to investigate the association between antimicrobial use and resistance in Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. cultured from cloacal swabs of chickens and from the poultry shed environment. All E. coli and Salmonella spp. isolates were resistant to multiple antimicrobial classes, including those categorized as “Highest Priority Critically Important Antimicrobials” for human medicine. Notably, resistance was observed in E. coli isolates from farms that did not use these antimicrobial classes in the current production cycle. For example, although quinolones were not used on 43.9% of E. coli positive farms, 95.7% of these farms had quinolone-resistant E. coli isolates. The results of the path analysis revealed that there was a “direct effect” of the frequency of antimicrobial usage on “high” resistance, with resistance increasing when antimicrobials were administered more frequently (β = 0.28, p = 0.002). There was a “direct effect” of the purpose of antimicrobial use on “low” resistance, with resistance marginally decreasing when antimicrobials were administered solely for therapeutic use (β = −0.17, p = 0.062), but increasing when they were used prophylactically. Overall, the study results could be used to educate farmers on better practices for antimicrobial administration, and to guide government agencies to update policies on antimicrobial use and resistance surveillance in the poultry sector of Bangladesh.

India is ranked as the 2nd largest egg producer in the world. Despite the prevalence of backyard poultry (free range), a majority of the commercial egg-laying hens in the country are still housed in battery cages. There is a global shift toward cage-free eggs, due to regulations and increased demand from conscious consumers and food corporations. However, there are very few commercial cage-free facilities in India to meet this demand. The aim of this study was to undertake a needs-assessment survey of Indian egg producers on cage-free production, and understand what support is needed to build the capacities of the cage-free egg production sector to develop it into a viable and sustainable alternative to battery cage eggs. The results showed that nearly all producers agreed on the need for additional support in shifting to, and operating in, the cage-free sector. This included support in the form of financial assistance, technical training, and promotion of the cage-free sector. The results of this study highlight the pressing need for government and private support, in the absence of which cage-free producers are compelled to compete with battery cage poultry producers on prices, which will result in increased losses and failure of the sector, since they have not yet achieved economies of scale.

Pengenalan suatu objek secara otomatis adalah suatu pekerjaan yang sangat penting seperti halnya untuk mengidentifikasi sebuah objek tertentu. Jika hal ini dilakukan oleh manusia maka akan sulit untuk mendapatkan hasil yang baik dengan konsisten, oleh sebab itu digunakan komputer. Komputer dapat mengenali objek selayaknya kemampuan manusia dalam mengenali objek, dengan cara mengamati gambar yang diperoleh dari kamera, dan menerapkan metode pengenalan pada gambar tersebut. Pada penelitian ini metode pengenalan objek akan dikembangkan dengan menggunakan kamera fisheye yang memiliki luas tangkap empat kali kamera konvensional. Metode pengenalan objek yang digunakan yaitu deep learning dengan arsitektur CNN (Convolution Neural Network). CNN memiliki kemampuan untuk mengenali objek dalam gambar. Model CNN yang digunakan terdiri dari 1 layer, 2 layer, 3 layer, dan 7 layer. Sedangkan untuk melatih dan memvalidasi model tersebut digunakan 900 gambar dataset. Hasil pengujian pada penelitian Skripsi ini menunjukan bahwa pada 7 layer CNN menghasilkan nilai presisi, recall dan akurasi tertinggi dengan komposisi nilai presisi 98,56%, recall 98,5% dan akurasi 98,59%. Nilai tersebut menunjukan bahwa hasil klasifikasi terhadap ketiga klasifikasi objek gambar manusia pada gambar fisheye dapat dilakukan dengan sangat baik.

ABSTRACT: Coccidiosis, which is caused by Eimeria species, results in huge economic losses to the poultry industry. Arbor Acres (AA) broilers and yellow-feathered broilers are the dominant broilers in northern and southern China, respectively. However, their susceptibility to coccidiosis has not been fully compared. In this study, the susceptibility of yellow-feathered broilers, AA broilers and Lohmann pink layers to E. tenella was evaluated based on mortality rate, relative body weight gain rate, intestinal lesion score, oocyst output, anticoccidial index (ACI), and cecum weight and length. The yellow-feathered broilers were shown to produce significantly fewer oocysts with higher intestinal lesion score compared to AA broilers, which had the highest growth rates and ACI scores. Subsequently, changes in the cecal microbiota of the 3 chicken lines before and after high-dose infection (1 × 104 oocysts) with E. tenella were determined by 16S rRNA sequencing. The results showed that composition of the microbiota changed dramatically after infection. The abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in the infected chickens decreased, and Proteobacteria increased significantly among the different chicken lines. At the genus level, Escherichia increased significantly in all 3 groups of infected chickens, but Lactobacillus decreased to 0% in the infected yellow-feathered broilers. The results of the study indicate that the susceptibility to E. tenella varies among the 3 chicken lines, and that changes in intestinal microbiota by E. tenella-infection among the different chicken lines had a similar trend, but to different degrees. This study provides basic knowledge of the susceptibility in the 3 chicken lines, which can be helpful for the control and prevention of coccidiosis.

The compromised egg quality and leg abnormality during the end of the laying cycle (after 40 weeks) have been leading to poor animal welfare and substantial economic losses. Therefore, the effects of fermented calcium (Ca) butyrate, produced by fermentation by Clostridium butyricum, on production, eggshell quality, and tibial property of hens were explored. A total of 192 Hy-line brown laying hens at 50-week-old were assigned to a basal diet or the basal diet with 300 mg/kg of the fermented Ca butyrate from 50 to 58 weeks of age. Each treatment had 6 replicates with 16 hens each. The diet supplemented with 300 mg/kg fermented Ca butyrate notably increased egg weight, ovarian follicle number, and eggshell strength (P = 0.072) as compared to the basal diet, which were associated with cytokine secretion, toll-like receptor signaling pathways, and intestinal immunity based on the RNA-seq data from the granulosa. Dietary Ca butyrate inclusion decreased the expression of ileal tumor necrosis factor-alpha and serum pro-inflammatory cytokine concentration, as well as increased the content of serum immunoglobulin A when compared to the basal diet (both P 0.05). In addition, the diet with fermented Ca butyrate reduced the number of osteoclasts in the proximal tibia and the level of C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen, a bone resorption marker (P

Dietary inclusion of copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) can improve egg shell quality through changing the membrane structure. This study aimed to compare the responses of egg shell to different mineral sources. In this study, 60-week-old laying hens (n = 378) were assigned to one of seven treatments with 18 replicates each in an RCBD. Treatments included the following: control (basal + sulfated minerals (CuSO4, MnSO4, and ZnSO4)), and basal + amino acid complexed (AAC) minerals (AAC Cu, AAC Mn, AAC Zn, AAC Cu + Mn, AAC Mn + Zn, AAC Zn + Cu). Trace minerals were added to a basal diet containing 20 ppm MnSO4 and 20 ppm ZnSO4 to achieve overall target concentrations of 20 ppm Cu, 60 ppm Mn, and 60 ppm Zn. The hens were fed the treatment diet for 15 weeks, and egg production and egg quality were assessed during weeks 5, 10, and 15 of the experiment. Egg shells, egg contents, and excreta were analyzed for Cu, Mn, Zn, Ca, and P during weeks 10 and 15. No treatment differences (p > 0.05) were observed for production or egg quality. Differences between excreta mineral content were observed. The mineral content of egg shells and egg contents did not differ (p > 0.05) at any time point. The mineral source did not affect egg mineral deposition and egg quality measures (p > 0.05). Some AAC trace minerals enhanced retention of zinc, calcium, and manganese, although AAC Cu increased Cu excretion. Taken together, feeding AAC trace minerals does not significantly affect egg production or egg quality during the late-lay period. More research is needed to demonstrate whether Cu excretion is increased when feeding AAC Cu due to increased bioavailability or other factors.

A numerical simulation of an unsteady gas flow containing inert solid particles in a shock tube is carried out using the interpenetrating continuum model. The gas and dispersed phases are characterized by governing equations that express the concepts of mass, momentum, and energy conservation as well as an equation that shows the change of the volume fraction of the dispersed phase. Using a Godunov-type approach, the hyperbolic governing equations are solved numerically with an increased order of accuracy. The working section of the shock tube containing air and solid particles of various sizes is considered. The shock wave structure is discussed and computational results provide the spatial and temporal dependencies of the particle concentration and other flow quantities. The numerical simulation results are compared with available experimental and computational data.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects on laying performance, egg quality traits, color, and composition of supplementing a white corn-based diet with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour. Three hundred 32-week-old hens were distributed to 30 pens of 10 hens each and allocated to six dietary treatments (five replicates per treatment) for 13 weeks. Two control groups of 50 hens received one of either diet Y, based on yellow corn, or diet W, based on white corn. The other groups received a diet based on white corn supplemented with Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour at 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, or 10% (diet D). Diet D improved laying performance and yolk color at a reduced feed cost per egg but had no effect on cholesterol content. In conclusion, the inclusion of Desmodium tortuosum leaf flour, in a white corn-based diet, is effective in lowering feed cost, increasing egg production, and improving yolk color.

Abstract Edge shear layer collapse causes edge cooling and aggravates radiative effects. This paper details on the microscopic dynamics of the emergence of power (Q) scaling of density limit (DL) from the shear layer collapse transport bifurcation scenario. The analysis is based on a novel 4-field model, which evolves turbulence energy, zonal flow energy, temperature gradient and density, including the neoclassical screening of zonal flow response. Bifurcation analysis yields power scaling of critical density for shear layer collapse as n c r i t ∼ Q 1 / 3 . The favorable Q scaling of the DL emerges from the fact that the shear layer strength increases with Q, thus preventing shear layer collapse. This in turn reduces particle transport and improves particle confinement. RMP induced ambient stochastic fields degrade the shear layer by inducing decoherence in the Reynolds stress. As a result the particle transport increases and particle confinement degrades. This leads to the emergence of unfavorable stochastic field intensity ( b s t 2 ) scaling of the critical density as n c r i t ∼ ( 1 + b s t 2 ) − 5 / 3 . All fields, including zonal flow shear, exhibit hysteresis when the power (Q) is ramped cyclically across the bifurcation point. The hysteresis is due to dynamical delay in bifurcation on account of critical slowing down. Thus, the dynamical hysteresis here is fundamentally different from the hysteresis associated with the existence of bi-stable states.

The aim of this experiment was to study the effect of biofermented feed on the performance, egg quality and intestinal microflora of laying hens. A total of 18 000 healthy laying hens at 43 weeks of age with similar egg production rate and average egg weight were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups (6 replicates per group). The control group was fed the basic diet, and the experimental group was fed the basic diet with 5% fermented feed. The experimental period was 60 days. The results were as follows: ① compared with the control group, the egg production rate of the experimental group increased, and the feed to egg ratio, egg breakage rate and dead rate were reduced. ② On the 60th day, the average egg weight, egg white height, yolk color, eggshell weight and yolk weight of the test group were all extremely significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.01), and the eggshell thickness was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). ③ Compared with the control group, the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities of the test group were significantly increased (P<0.05); malondialdehyde (MDA) content was significantly decreased (P<0.05); and the immunoglobulin G (IgG) content was highly significantly increased (P<0.01). ④ Compared with the control group, the experimental group of laying hens showed an increase in the abundance of the intestinal thick-walled phylum, a decrease in the abundance of the anaplastic phylum, an increase in the intestinal thick-walled phylum/anaplastic phylum (F/B) ratio, and an increase in the diversity of the community. It can be seen that the addition of biofermented feed to the ration can improve the production performance of laying hens, improve egg quality, enhance the antioxidant capacity and immunity of laying hens, and improve the intestinal microflora of laying hens. Therefore, it is important to use biofermented feeds to improve the performance and intestinal health of laying hens, and this paper can pro‐ vide a reference for the popularization and application of biofermented feeds in laying hens' diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary inclusion of copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) can improve egg shell quality through changing the membrane structure. This study aimed to compare the responses of egg shell to different mineral sources. In this study, 60-week-old laying hens (n = 378) were assigned to one of seven treatments with 18 replicates each in an RCBD. Treatments included the following: control (basal + sulfated minerals (CuSO4, MnSO4, and ZnSO4)), and basal + amino acid complexed (AAC) minerals (AAC Cu, AAC Mn, AAC Zn, AAC Cu + Mn, AAC Mn + Zn, AAC Zn + Cu). Trace minerals were added to a basal diet containing 20 ppm MnSO4 and 20 ppm ZnSO4 to achieve overall target concentrations of 20 ppm Cu, 60 ppm Mn, and 60 ppm Zn. The hens were fed the treatment diet for 15 weeks, and egg production and egg quality were assessed during weeks 5, 10, and 15 of the experiment. Egg shells, egg contents, and excreta were analyzed for Cu, Mn, Zn, Ca, and P during weeks 10 and 15. No treatment differences (p > 0.05) were observed for production or egg quality. Differences between excreta mineral content were observed. The mineral content of egg shells and egg contents did not differ (p > 0.05) at any time point. The mineral source did not affect egg mineral deposition and egg quality measures (p > 0.05). Some AAC trace minerals enhanced retention of zinc, calcium, and manganese, although AAC Cu increased Cu excretion. Taken together, feeding AAC trace minerals does not significantly affect egg production or egg quality during the late-lay period. More research is needed to demonstrate whether Cu excretion is increased when feeding AAC Cu due to increased bioavailability or other factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry farming and the demand for chicken meat and eggs are growing due to their quality protein, essential nutrients, affordable price, and low investment cost. The current study was designed to investigate the productivity and profitability of small-scale commercial poultry enterprises. Data were collected from 221 poultry farms using a semi-structured questionnaire. The results were presented using descriptive statistics. Farm performances were measured by total-factor-productivity (TFP), benefit-cost-ratio (BCR), and net-profitmargin (NPM). The majority of the poultry farm owners were male (69.68%) and married (77.4%). Around 55.2% of poultry farmers aged 31-45 years. Group-owned farms had 4.59 ± 1.77 individual members. On average, a batch of layer chickens was kept for 17.0 ± 3.87 and 18.12 ± 4.25 months on individual and groupowned farms, respectively. Moreover, the mean selling ages of pullet and broiler chickens were 2.55 ± 0.71 and 2.18 ± 0.51 months, respectively. The flock size of layer chickens in sole-proprietor farms (562 ± 724) was significantly lower than in partnership farms (1165 ± 877). The average numbers of produced pullets by sole-proprietorship and partnership farms were 3177 ± 2360 and 3137 ± 1826, while the mean numbers of broilers produced were 2257 ± 1875 and 3269 ± 1669, respectively. The average egg and broiler weights in sole-proprietorship farms were significantly higher compared to group-owned farms. Annual egg production rates in individual and group-owned farms were 76.5% and 70.4%, respectively. The cost of feed, chicken, housing, labor, and medication were the top five production expenditures, while feed cost shares 60.4%. Egg producers had NPM, BCR, and TFP indices of 38.99%, 1.03, and 2.03, respectively, with notable differences by ownership types. The NPM, BCR, and TFP indices for broiler and pullet farms, respectively, were 42.78%, 0.93, and 1.93 for broilers and 35.21%, 0.92, and 1.67 for pullets. The results indicated that poultry firms performed optimally, regardless of ownership type. To further improve the efficiency and profitability of poultry enterprises, farmers need technical, finance, and management skills and input supply chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The goal was to evaluate the diagnostic capability of different parameters obtained with the posterior pole (PP) software in Spectralis SD-OCT with the 8 × 8 grid tilted at 7° and horizontalized in glaucomatous eyes. Methods: A total of 299 eyes were included, comprising 136 healthy eyes and 163 with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The following segmentations were evaluated: complete retina, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer (GCL), GCL and inner plexiform layer (GCLIPL), ganglion cell complex (GCC), outer plexiform layer and outer nuclear layer (OPLONL), inner retinal layer (IRL), and outer retinal layer (ORL). Different patterns of macular damage were represented using heatmaps for each studied layer, where the areas under the curve (AUROC) values and a retinal thickness cutoff point were defined to discriminate POAG patients. Results: There was not any difference in the diagnostic capability for detecting glaucoma between the grid tilted at 7° and horizontalized. The macular segmentations that offer the highest diagnostic ability in glaucoma discrimination were, in the following order, RNFL (AUROC = 0.796), GCC (AUROC = 0.785), GCL (AUROC = 0.784), GCLIPL (AUROC = 0.770), IRL (AUROC = 0.755), and the complete retina (AUROC = 0.752). In contrast, ORL and OPLONL do not appear to be helpful for discriminating POAG. Conclusions: Some results of PP software may be useful for discriminating POAG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]