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Security is the primary concern when creating security protocols for wireless sensor networks (WSN), which motivates many academics to find security solutions that effectively provide a few benefits, such as low consumption of electricity, flexible communication, and low cost. A few restrictions still remain, including the inability to exactly select the expected cluster, the sensor nodes' constrained functionality, and their poor efficiency. Thus, Egret-Harris optimization for hybrid secure routing and monitoring mechanisms in IoT-based WSNs (EHO optimized routing protocol in WSN) was introduced in this research. The created EHO algorithm combines the search, fitness function, and hunting phase features from Harris hawks and egrets to determine the best solution among all practical solutions while ensuring safe data transfer from the cluster heads (CHs) to the Base station (BS). Specifically, the EHO-enabled clustering is applied to the suggested model to efficiently choose the ideal group of CHs. Additionally, the EHO algorithm assists in choosing the best possible routes with minimal distance and less delay for facilitating energy-efficient transmission. With 100 nodes analyzed, the suggested EHO-WSN approach without any attacks achieved 22 alive nodes, a delay of 0.10 ms, a normalized energy of 0.346J, and a throughput of 0.64 bps, respectively. Additionally, in the presence of a Sybil attack, the suggested EHO-WSN technique achieves 14, 0.214 J, 0.010 ms, and 0.512 bps for an analysis involving 100 nodes. Compared to previous methods, the suggested EHO-WSN model without attack achieves a delay of 0.07 ms, a throughput of 0.30 bps, an energy of 0.374 J, and 37 alive nodes for 200 node evaluation. For 200 nodes under examination, the EHO-WSN technique yields superior results of attaining 12 alive nodes, a delay of 0.072 ms, a throughput of 0.181 bps, and a normalized energy of 0.330 J even in the presence of the Sybil attack and exceeded other traditional techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As in the previous year, two first records for Switzerland were made with the observation of a Siberian Stonechat Saxicola maurus at Chatzensee ZH and a Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata in Cologny GE. In addition, Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis bred for the first time in our country. Other outstanding events in 2023 included the second record of Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis, the third records each of Franklin's Gull Leucophaeus pipixcan and Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus, the fourth record of Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus fuscatus, the fourth and fifth records of Blyth's Reed Warbler Acrocephalus dumetorum, and the fifth record of Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius (including a supplement from 2006). An unusual breeding record was the successful mixed brood between a male Spectacled Warbler Curruca conspicillata and a female Common Whitethroat Curruca communis. Also noteworthy is the third observation of a Black-tailed Godwit with characteristics of the subspecies Limosa limosa islandica. New annual records were made for Great Snipe Gallinago media (8 cases), Pygmy Cormorant Microcarbo pygmaeus (17 cases), Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus (27 cases) and Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis (24 cases). In 2023, the SRC examined 393 cases (49% from German-speaking Switzerland, 44% from French-speaking Switzerland and 10% from Ticino), concerning 93 species. A total of 302 cases (77%) relating to 77 species were approved; 14 related to previous years and 13 remain outstanding. At the end of 2023, the Swiss list included 434 species in categories A, B (wild birds) and C (introduced birds), of which 426 have been observed since 1900; 6 species remain in category D (birds of doubtful origin). In the text, the three figures after the German and scientific names refer to the number of records/individuals, 1900-1999, 2000-2022 and in 2023, respectively. The species are listed systematically, and within species records are listed in chronological order. Detailed information is given as follows: location, date(s), number of individuals (one individual if not specified), age and sex if known, available documentation (photographs, video, audio recordings, skins) and in brackets the name(s) of the observer(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two multi‐species heronries, inland and island, found in the northern part of Nyerere National Park in Tanzania are described. A total of 12 waterbird species were breeding. The inland heronry, located in a bushwillow patch amidst the open savanna habitat, hosted all 12 species. From the drone images taken at the inland heronry, we estimated 3492 individuals for five white bird species (egrets and Africa Sacred Ibis), and 1729 and 160 individuals for the African Openbill and African Spoonbill, respectively. Additionally, we estimated 11 and 55 breeding pairs of spoonbills and ibises, respectively, at the island heronry. Documentation of such large multi‐species heronries is limited in Tanzania, especially in the southern region. Therefore, we hope this note will encourage researchers to explore the region for more heronries because these are important sites for waterbirds population management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power difference means and Heron means are well-known numerical means with parameters. Their comparison in the positive definite sense is studied. More precisely, for a power difference mean M with each fixed parameter we try to determine the exact parameter range for Heron means majorizing M (in the positive definite sense). Since this order is known to determine validity of (unitarily invariant) norm inequalities between corresponding matrix power difference means and matrix Heron means, we obtain an abundance of very precise norm inequalities between these two matrix means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White Stork (WS) (Ciconia ciconia (Linnaeus, 1758)) ranks among the most common breeding birds in many Mediterranean cities, underscoring the importance of studying nest densities, particularly when populations are increasing. In this study, conducted in Rabat (Morocco), we aimed to investigate the effects of coloniality, landscape composition, and space to identify the best predictors of variation in the number of WS nests per nest support using generalized linear mixed models. The results revealed significant interactions between the type of support (trees vs. pylons) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) as well as between the support type and the distance to the nearest support occupied by WS and Cattle Egret (CE) (Bubulcus ibis (Linnaeus, 1758)) nests. A high number of nests are associated with an NDVI increase around pylons, while such an effect is insignificant around trees. In contrast, a high number of WS nests are noted close to supports occupied by both WS and CE nests, whereas in pylons, this number is recorded far away from them. The implementation of a scientific monitoring system is crucial for determining, at a defined time step, the direction and strength of relations between WS and CE populations in Rabat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ingestion of microplastic (MPs) in birds and its subsequent health effects has become one of the major environmental concerns. The current study is, therefore, designed to investigate the level of MPs in gastrointestinal tract of a semi-aquatic bird species, the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) and characterize their types, color and chemical composition. Samples (n = 5) from dead individuals were first digested then separated on the basis of density followed by vacuum filtration prior to quantification of MPs through stereomicroscopy. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to identify the chemical composition of MPs. Our results showed the highest level (mean ± S.D items/sample) of sheets (37.2 ± 9.6) followed by fibers (28.8 ± 15.3), fragments (12.8 ± 16.2), and microbeads (0.4 ± 0.5) in gastrointestinal tract of cattle egret. The most frequently detected color was transparent (23%), followed by brown (19%), white (18%), black (15%), and orange (10%), respectively. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyisobutylene, polyaramid, fiberglass and PTFE coated fiberglass fiber were characterized as the major constituent compounds of MPs in gastrointestinal tracts of cattle egrets. Highest concentrations of sheets and fibers MPs in gastrointestinal tract of cattle egrets reflect their greater sources and lowest degradation. Our results depict the elevated level of MPs in the gastrointestinal tract of cattle egrets which might be posing some serious health effects. The ingestion of MPs by birds is evidently associated with their declining populations which should be mitigated effectively to avoid future worst consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Climate and land use/land cover (LULC) changes have far-reaching effects on various biological processes in wildlife, particularly interspecific interactions. Unfortunately, interspecific interactions are often overlooked when assessing the impacts of environmental changes on endangered species. In this study, we examined niche similarities and habitat overlaps between wild Crested Ibis and sympatric Egret and Heron species (EHs) in Shaanxi, China, using Ecological niche models (ENMs). We aimed to forecast potential alterations in habitat overlaps due to climate and LULC changes. The results showed that although EHs possess a broader niche breadth compared to the Crested Ibis, they still share certain niche similarities, as indicated by Schoener’s D and Hellinger’s I values exceeding 0.5, respectively. Notably, despite varying degrees of habitat reduction, the shared habitat area of all six species expands with the changes in climate and LULC. We suggest that with the climate and LULC changes, the habitats of sympatric EHs are likely to suffer varying degrees of destruction, forcing them to seek refuge and migrate to the remaining wild Ibis habitat. This is primarily due to the effective conservation efforts in the Crested Ibis habitat in Yangxian County and neighboring areas. Consequently, due to the niche similarity, they will share and compete for limited habitat resources, including food and space. Therefore, we recommend that conservation efforts extend beyond protecting the Crested Ibis habitat. It is crucial to control human activities that contribute to LULC changes to safeguard the habitats of both Crested Ibis and other sympatric birds.

Summary: This paper provides a review of proofs of Heron's formula for the area of a plane triangle. We groups proofs together into analogy/experimental evidence, geometry (incircle radius multiplied by semi-perimeter), algebra (equivalence with the Pythagorean Theorem), trigonometric proofs (often via the cosine rule), and specialization from a more general theorem. Lastly, we discuss a neglected paper by Baker of 1885 that lists 110 distinct formulae for the area of a plane triangle and relate some of these formulae to those used in proving Heron's formula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sangaku problems are traditional Japanese geometrical puzzles, often displayed in religious temples, that have intrigued mathematicians for centuries. This study aims to generalize the Equal Incircles Theorem, extending Angela Drei's proof to N-circles, by applying the trigonometric method alongside foundational mathematical tools, including mathematical induction, Heron's formula, and the telescoping product. A generalized equation for N circles based on the Equal Incircles Theorem is derived through explicit mathematical formulation and characterization. The findings deepen our understanding of geometric relationships, highlight the historical significance of Sangaku problems, and offer potential advancements for future engineering applications, mathematics education, and research in mathematical history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macro-Micromorphological, syrinx. This study aimed to explain and compare the anatomical, histological, histochemical & histomorphometric analyses of the syrinx in different species of birds. This study includes 21 healthy birds from geese (Anser Anser Domesticus), cattle egrets (Bublucus ibis) & house sparrows (Passer domesticus), seven from each species. Results: Anatomically, the syrinx of the three studied species was tracheobronchial type composed of 2 different cartilaginous groups arranged in three parts: Tracheo-Syringeal cartilage in (cranial, intermediate part (tympanum)) and broncho-syringeal cartilage; as well as the trachea's muscles were once thought to be the syrinx's extrinsic muscles. Histologically, the lamina epithelialis of the Tracheo-Syringeal part was represented by pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium in the three investigated species with goblet cells in geese, house sparrows and lack goblet cells in cattle egrets. The pessulus in all three investigated species was triangular and positioned at the tip of the tracheal bifurcation. The bulla of house sparrow was considered the intrinsic syringeal muscles and these muscles in sparrows are not only present in geese or cattle egrets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three sketches from Vasyl Machna's book entitled Z samogłosek i spółgłosek. Encyklopedyczny słownik nazwisk, miast, ptaków, roślin i wszelkich różności (From Vowels and Consonants. An Encyclopedic Dictionary of Names, Cities, Birds, Plants and all Sorts of Miscellaneous Things), the Polish-language edition of which - translated by Bohdan Zadura - is due to be published by the Częstochowa Literary Gallery in 2025. In the first of the texts, the Ukrainian author recalls his several-hour stay at the Beijing airport during a trip to Ulan Bator. His time waiting for a connecting flight was filled with reading Englishlanguage books on Chinese literature, which he found in one of the stores. This reconnaissance inspired him to consider the peculiarities of this literature, its complex political and cultural conditions, and the universality of some of the issues it raises, especially those concerning intimate human relations. The other two essays are a kind of literary portraits of two species of birds: hawks and herons. Starting from his own observations of birds in flight, the author shows how great a role they play in our attempts to cognitively tame the world, and how heterogeneous and rich their symbolism is in different cultures - especially in such exotic regions for Europeans as the Near and Far East. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although large carnivores usually prefer large prey, in some situations, they may shift their predation patterns towards smaller but abundant prey. The jaguar (Panthera onca) is a large carnivore capable of changing its diet according to prey and habitat availability. Here, we assessed the temporal and spatiotemporal interactions between jaguars and their prey in the Maracá‐Jipioca Islands (Northeastern Amazon, Brazil) through camera traps. We assessed overlapping activity patterns and tested for spatiotemporal segregation/avoidance between jaguars and nine potential prey species. We used a time‐to‐encounter approach, which consists in calculating the minimum time between prey and jaguar's detections, and vice versa, for each record of preys' species at a specific camera trap station, which translates into aggregation or avoidance behaviors. We found that these insular jaguars are more active in daylight periods when most of their prey are active and in locations used by species that cannot become nocturnal to avoid predators due to morphology constraints. Four prey species (great egret, white‐tailed deer, muscovy duck, and black‐and‐white tegu) presented moderate activity overlapping with jaguars. Agoutis and white‐tailed deer seek to spatiotemporally segregate from jaguars, although jaguars did not show spatiotemporal aggregation with any of the evaluated prey. Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics is essential to establish the islands' trophic network composition and structure. This is fundamental information to efficiently allocate efforts for reducing costs and maximizing benefits in managing this population aiming to protect and conserve it, and consequently, the related ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Nantucket Sound" from Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought, written by Charles Shirō Inouye, describes a reflective journey on a boat through nature, memories, and personal loss. The author intertwines themes of grief, nature, and spirituality while engaging in fishing and contemplating life and death. Through vivid imagery and introspective moments, the author explores the interconnectedness of life, death, and the natural world. [Extracted from the article]

In this study, we examined the Oresme sequences defined by Nicole Oresme. We examined the geometric interpretation of Oresme sequences with rational coefficients which are defined by A.F. Horadam as 0n+2= 0n+1- 1/40nwith initial conditions and 00 = 0 and 01 = 1/2. We defined the the vector of the Oresme sequence. We calculated the area and volume. We gave the general solution for four squares equation involving Oresme vectors. We calculated the Heron Formula of Oresme sequences. We defined the angle value between these sequences. We also obtained a relationship between the Oresme sequence and the generalized Fibonacci sequence in vector space. We calculated the area and volume of these sequence. We obtained important definitions and theorems for these sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subject of domes in the Roman world is complex and can be studied from different perspectives. In this paper we focus on the relationship between Heron of Alexandria's manuals and the vaulting systems of the Hadrianic age. Our aim is to compare a selection of formulae from the critical edition by Johan Ludvig Heiberg with a series of buildings recently documented using photogrammetric and laser scanner technologies. The collection of writings Heronis Alexandrini opera quae supersunt omnia (mainly books IV and V) presents an interesting set of formulae for calculating vaults and domes: volumes and areas of niches, spherical segments, lunettes, as well as empirical strategies for calculating complex shapes. This approach, which integrates practical knowledge with Vitruvian graphic schemes, allows us to clarify the work of the ancient architect and consequently to investigate the architectural problem within the more general framework of archaeology with new conceptual tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring species abundance is a critical tool for identifying trends in wildlife populations. Using data collected in the San Francisco Bay Area between 1995 and 2019, we evaluated trends in nesting abundance of four Ardeid species across the entire study area and in 10 sub-regions, while accounting for the effect of rainfall. Overall, Great Egret (Ardea alba) nest abundance increased by 27% (95% confidence interval -1%, 54%) from 783 to 993 nests. Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) and Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) nesting abundance was similar across the study period, averaging approximately 503 and 509 nests, respectively, but Snowy Egret abundance was highly variable between years. Finally, Black-crowned Night- Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) abundance declined -- 22% (95% confidence interval -- 59%, 15%) from 682 to 535 nests. At the sub-regional scale, trends were variable within species, and no species had consistent positive or negative trends across all 10 sub-regions, although it appears the distribution of all species except Great Blue Heron shifted among sub-regions. Our results suggest conservation action may be warranted to recover the Black-crowned Night Heron population in our study area, but there is uncertainty on the magnitude of their decline and the reasons for it. Further investigation of the mechanisms for demographic change is needed to guide effective actions. In the absence of that information, protection of the few colony sites occupied by Black-crowned Night Herons and Snowy Egrets-- especially islands in San Francisco Bay and two large urban colonies in Santa Rosa and Fairfield-- is a prudent immediate action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spleen is the largest secondary lymphoid organ with significant roles in pathogen clearance. It is involved in several avian diseases. The cattle egret is a wild insectivorous bird of agricultural and socioeconomic importance. Data related to microstructural features of cattle egret spleen are lacking. The present study investigated the gross anatomical, histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of the cattle egret spleen. Proliferation (PCNA and PHH3), apoptosis (cleaved caspase 3, C.CASP3) and T‐cell (CD3 and CD8) markers were assessed. Grossly, the spleen appeared brownish red, oval‐shaped and located at the oesophago‐proventricular junction. Histologically, the spleen was surrounded by a thin capsule sending a number of trabeculae which contained branches of the splenic vessels. The white pulp consisted of the periarteriolar lymphoid sheath and periellipsoidal lymphatic sheath (PELS). The red pulp was formed of sinusoids and cords. The penicillar capillaries, which represent the terminal segments of the splenic arterial tree were highly branched, wrapped by prominent ellipsoids and directly connected to the splenic sinusoids, suggesting a closed type of circulation. Immunohistochemically, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)‐expressing cells were distributed with high counts throughout the splenic parenchyma, being highest within the splenic cords and PELS. Both PHH3‐ and C.CASP3‐expressing cells revealed a similar pattern to that of PCNA, although with fewer counts. Large numbers of T cells were observed throughout the splenic parenchyma, mainly within the cords, as revealed by CD3 and CD8 immunoreaction. The present study provides a clear insight into the precise structure of the spleen in cattle egrets and thus improves our understanding about birds' immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bonaventure Formation is an early Carboniferous fossil-bearing rock unit that crops out in northern New Brunswick and eastern Quebec, eastern Canada. Here, we describe CMNFV 10013, a tetrapod trackway found in Bonaventure Formation outcrops on Heron Island, New Brunswick, by Robert Wheelock Ells in 1879. The specimen shows at least seven prints including two pes–manus couples, one of which is sufficiently well preserved to be attributable to Hylopus isp. Several underprints significantly depart from typical Hylopus tracks and emphasise the importance of considering taphonomy when identifying fossil trackways. CMNFV 10013 is the first described fossil reported from the Bonaventure Formation. It extends the Carboniferous Maritimes Basin tetrapod trackway record northwards and represents one of the oldest tetrapod trackways from Canada. Reviewing the global record of Hylopus isp. reveals CMNFV 10013 is also one of the earliest Hylopus found. This global record also reveals that Hylopus occurrences are clustered around the paleotropics, possibly suggesting a biogeographical preference. This specimen highlights the importance of describing forgotten museum specimens. Future research should focus on undescribed museum specimens and contributing to existing collections through fieldwork in the promising rocks of Heron Island. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We studied the nesting population trends of the colonially nesting heron species in Greece from 1988 to 2018, aiming to identify drivers of these trends and thus inform colony/wetland conservation measures. Two species (Cattle Egret and Squacco Heron) had a positive trend, while three species (Black-crowned Night Heron, Little Egret and Grey Heron) had a negative trend. The Purple Heron presented a stable trend. Our results suggest that: (a) The Natura 2000 network and the operation of the protected areas Management Authorities have positively affected heron species nesting population trend or range expansion, (b) national wetland restoration efforts have facilitated the expansion of most heron species' breeding range via the establishment of new colonies, and (c) colonies located outside protected areas were—especially in the case of the Grey Heron—most likely to have a declining nesting population trend. The drivers behind the observed population trends differed among species, even among those sharing the same breeding sites. This suggests that the nesting population trends could be due to ecological changes at both the breeding and at the wintering sites. Our results emphasize the importance of continuing wetland restoration efforts, developing heron-friendly farming practices, and adopting a systematic nationwide survey of colonies. Heron colonies are dynamic components of wetlands. Therefore, their systematic monitoring is important for the management of both birds and wetlands. During the period 1988–2018, we counted breeding pairs of seven colonial breeding heron species at 65 colonies across 37 wetlands in Greece. We considered as annual variables of a population: (a) years since 1988, (b) Natura 2000 network inclusion, (c) protected area management authority overseeing, (d) wetland type (new or restored), and (e) new colonies (established after 2003). The Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis and the Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides had a positive breeding population trend. The Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax, Little Egret Egretta garzetta, and Grey Heron Ardea cinerea had a negative trend, while the Purple Heron Ardea purpurea population was stable. The Great White Egret Ardea alba bred sporadically at only a few sites which precluded the evaluation of its population trend. The informative population variables differed among species, even of those at the same colony, which suggests trends are also affected by conditions at wintering grounds. The study highlights the need for the systematic monitoring of heron colonies and the protection of foraging/breeding areas in order to reverse the observed negative population trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paul Yiu proved that all Heron triangles are realizable on the integer lattice. We give an analogous result for triangles with vertices on the Eisenstein lattice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide information on new records of the Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) in the Drake Passage area and within the Argentine Islands (Wilhelm Archipelago, Antarctica). Included are notes on the peculiar behavior of and difficulties experienced by this bird in the extreme conditions of the Antarctic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangroves play a crucial role in maintaining coastal ecological balance. This study focused on the impact of branch-breaking behavior on the mortality of Rhizophora stylosa in the Guangxi Shankou Mangrove Reserve. However, we found mangrove mortality in areas devoid of egret habitation, prompting a reevaluation of our research hypothesis. Further investigation suggested that nesting behavior was the primary cause of mangrove mortality. A comparison of the data from areas with egrets (Egretta garzetta, Ardea intermedia) and lesser rice-field rats (Rattus losea) activity indicated significant mechanical damage caused by rats to mangroves as the main cause of mortality. Additionally, we found that the biological characteristics of R. stylosa, particularly its stunted growth and recovery abilities after branch breaking, were key factors affecting its survival. These findings imply that rat-induced mortality may not occur in other less susceptible mangrove species. The results contradict assumptions regarding the impact of egret behavior and highlight the importance of the biological characteristics of R. stylosa. This offers fresh insights into mangrove conservation and management, emphasizing the need for ongoing observation and hypotheses verification. Future studies should explore the influence of lesser rice-field rats' activity and the intrinsic characteristics of R. stylosa on the ecosystem's long-term stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Night herons of the genus Nycticorax and Nyctanassa are adept island colonisers, occurring on a number of oceanic islands and island archipelagos. Continental species and those inhabiting large islands are generally not considered threatened, whereas night herons restricted to small, oceanic islands are particularly vulnerable to human interference. As a result, six out of nine described species and one subspecies, all derived from Nycticorax nycticorax , Nycticorax caledonicus or Nyctanassa violacea , are now extinct whereas a further three extinct species await description. The extinct island endemics generally exhibit morphological adaptations to an insular environment and diet, such as an increase or decrease in size, robust jaws and legs, and smaller wings with associated reduced flying ability than founding stock. Here I present an osteological comparison along with historical descriptions of the extinct, oceanic island night herons, with special reference to the Mascarene and Ascension fossil species, and Bonin Island subspecies, and show the degree of morphological changes between the founding and island taxa. I further discuss the reasons why they became extinct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the relationships between food habits and habitat is crucial for the assessment of habitat quality for birds. The present study investigated the diet and reproductive success of Little Bitterns Ixobrychus minutus nesting on cyprinid fish ponds, an important breeding habitat of this species in central and eastern Europe. Being subject to different management practices, fish ponds provide food resources of uneven availability for this small heron. Prey items regurgitated by nestlings were examined, and breeding success was estimated on monoculture ponds stocked either with small fish (of a size suitable for feeding nestlings) or large fish (unavailable to Little Bitterns and adversely affecting their non-fish prey), on abandoned ponds dominated by small fish but with large fish also present, and on angling ponds dominated by large sport fish but harbouring significant numbers of small fish as well. A total of 1356 prey items from 78 broods were identified. Although Little Bitterns exhibited dietary flexibility in response to the contrasting availability of prey on their nesting ponds, the bulk of the nestlings' diet consisted of fish. The size of fish brought to the nest increased significantly with brood age, showing that parents adjusted the prey size to the gape constraints of their young. The chick production determined for 73 broods did not differ with respect to pond management, but the dietary composition indicated that to compensate for food shortages, birds nesting on ponds containing mainly large fish made foraging flights to food-richer ponds. The abundance of small-sized fish prey may be a factor limiting the breeding success of small- and medium-sized predatory waterbirds and should be taken into consideration in management strategies of habitats dominated by fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study Schur convexity and concavity, its properties like Schur, Schur harmonic convexity(concave)on the ratio of difference of means obtained by arithmetic mean, geometric mean, harmonic mean, contraharmonic mean, heron mean, root square mean, subsidiary means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An upper bound of the logarithmic mean is given by a convex combination of the arithmetic mean and the geometric mean. In addition, a lower bound of the logarithmic mean is given by a geometric bridge of the arithmetic mean and the geometric mean. In this paper, we study the bounds of the logarithmic mean. We give operator inequalities and norm inequalities for the fundamental inequalities on the logarithmic mean. We give monotonicity of the parameter for the unitarily invariant norm of the Heron mean, and give its optimality as the upper bound of the unitarily invariant norm of the logarithmic mean. We study the ordering of the unitarily invariant norms for the Heron mean, the Heinz mean, the binomial mean and the Lehmer mean. Finally, we give a new mean inequality chain as an application of the point--wise inequality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we consider certain algebraic properties concerning variants of the Heron mean on positive definite cones of general C ⁎ -algebras. Those variants are the Kubo-Ando type Heron mean and the Wasserstein mean. The main part of the investigation concerns associativity properties. We present a number of results that show how far operations related to those two kinds of means are from being associative. Many of our results can also be viewed as characterizations of central positive definite elements or as characterizations of commutative C ⁎ -algebras. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The grey heron is an extensively studied and widely distributed colonial bird species in the Old World; however, relevant information on the role played by vocalisations during the life cycle of individuals is still lacking. This research aimed to deepen the available knowledge on the repertoire and vocal behaviour of adults during the breeding season, through a bioacoustic approach and choosing as study areas two heronries in different environmental contexts. Colonies were monitored 2 days a week each, for 9 weeks, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (360 hr of sampling). Results showed that adults use a wide range of call types, mainly related to courtship and the reproductive phase. Vocalisations are emitted especially by males and are a key element during mate attraction, nest building, in breeding events and in strengthening bonds within pairs. Most vocalisations are expressed in the first weeks of the breeding cycle, concurrently with the maximum number of courtship males, which exhibit most of the detected sound categories and emit calls with lower frequencies than females. Moreover, these vocalisations are expressed to a greater extent in the heronry characterized by an important forest component, where an almost entirely exclusive sound category was detected. In conclusion, the results suggest a possible correlation between vocal behaviour and female choice. The wide variety of sound signals and the high rate of calls produced by males during attraction and courtship displays, together with the acoustic characteristics of the signals, could provide honest estimates of the quality of emitters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aerial images obtained by drones are increasingly used for ecological research such as wildlife monitoring. Yet detectability issues resulting from animal activity or visibility are rarely considered, although these may lead to biased population size and trend estimates. In this study, we investigated detectability in a census of Malagasy pond heron Ardeola idae colonies on the island of Mayotte. We conducted repeated drone flights over breeding colonies in mangrove habitats during two breeding seasons. We then identified individuals and nests in the images and fitted closed capture-recapture models on nest-detection histories. We observed seasonal variation in the relative abundance of individuals, and intra-daily variation in the relative abundance of individuals—especially immature birds—affecting the availability of nests for detection. The detection probability of nests estimated by capture–recapture varied between 0.58 and 0.74 depending on flyover days and decreased 25% from early to late morning. A simulation showed that three flyovers are necessary to detect a 5–6% decline in colonies of 50 to 200 nests. These results indicate that the detectability of nests of forest-canopy breeding species from airborne imagery can vary over space and time; we recommend the use of capture-recapture methods to control for this bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: A genome sequence of a threatened species can provide valuable genetic information that is important for improving the conservation strategies. The white-eared night heron (Gorsachius magnificus) is an endangered and poorly known ardeid bird. In order to support future studies on conservation genetics and evolutionary adaptation of this species, we have reported a de novo assembled and annotated whole-genome sequence of the G. magnificus. Data description: The final draft genome assembly of the G. magnificus was 1.19 Gb in size, with a contig N50 of 187.69 kb and a scaffold N50 of 7,338.28 kb. According to BUSCO analysis, the genome assembly contained 97.49% of the 8,338 genes in the Aves (odb10) dataset. Approximately 10.52% of the genome assembly was composed of repetitive sequences. A total of 14,613 protein-coding genes were predicted in the genome assembly, with functional annotations available for 14,611 genes. The genome assembly exhibited a heterozygosity rate of 0.49 heterozygosity per kilobase pair. This draft genome of G. magnificus provides valuable genomic resources for future studies on conservation and evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shapes of galaxies, their outer regions in particular, are important guideposts to their formation and evolution. In this work, we report on the discovery of strongly box-shaped morphologies of the otherwise well-studied elliptical and lenticular galaxies NGC 720 and NGC 2768 from deep imaging. The boxiness is strongly manifested in the parameter shape A4/a of −0.04 in both objects, and significant center shifts of the isophotes of ∼2–4 kpc are also seen. One reason for such asymmetries commonly stated in the literature is a merger origin, although the number of such cases is still sparse, and the exact properties of the individual boxy objects are highly diverse. Indeed, for NGC 2768, we identify a progenitor candidate (dubbed "Pelops") in the residual images, which appears to be a dwarf satellite that is currently merging with NGC 2768. At its absolute magnitude of Mr of −12.2 mag, the corresponding Sersic radius of 2.4 kpc is more extended than those of typical dwarf galaxies from the literature. However, systematically larger radii are known to occur in systems that are in tidal disruption. This finding is bolstered by the presence of a tentative tidal stream feature on archival GALEX data. Finally, further structures in the fascinating host galaxy include rich dust lanes and a vestigial X-shaped bulge component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reddish egret Egretta rufescens is North America's rarest Ardeidae and is listed as 'Near Threatened' by the IUCN, as endangered in Mexico, and as a species of conservation concern throughout much of its range in the United States. Little is known about the migratory behavior of the reddish egret. Individuals that were banded during the breeding season in Texas, USA, have been resighted away from breeding areas; however, records are limited and the extent of migration is unknown. Using GPS transmitters, we found reddish egrets breeding in southern Texas exhibited a partial migration strategy, with 39% of the marked population migrating from breeding sites. We assessed the dominance, body size, and arrival time hypotheses to better understand the drivers of partial migration. We did not find support for the body size hypothesis and found mixed support for the dominance hypothesis; both males and females migrated, and migratory status of individuals did not change across the years of study. Long‐distance migrants were also larger than resident individuals. We found some support for the arrival time hypothesis; residents began breeding earlier than long‐distance migrants and had moderately greater nest success. However, within long‐distance migrants, an earlier arrival to breeding areas did not necessarily equate to earlier nesting or greater nest success. This study is the first to examine the migratory behavior of adult reddish egrets and assesses the dominance, body size, and arrival time hypotheses as explanations for partial migration in this species. Further, the results of this study emphasize the need for international conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latest film by Hiyao Miyazaki, The Boy and the Heron, unfolds in unexpected and occasionally baffling ways. The film's second half, especially, takes place in a world that appears to abide by a distinct narrative logic than that which viewers are familiar with. I discuss this as an instance of Miyazaki creating and working within a private, authentic vocabulary, as has been described in Existentialist and Pragmatist traditions. Specifically, I analyze its filmic language as an alloy of the memories, imagined possibilities, and losses of two of its characters, and why this depiction is so affecting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mites of the genus Laminosioptes have been reported in domestic Galliformes birds and pigeons in some countries. They specifically infest the subcutaneous tissue of the host generating granulomatous lesions. In the current study, we reported the presence of Laminosioptes cysticola in the pectoral muscle of a specimen of Great Egret, Ardea alba egretta, found in the peri-urban area of Belém, Pará, Brazil. We discuss the role of this individual as vector of mites between domestic and wild birds and we recommend ornithologists and veterinaries to carry out careful observations of live and dead birds because small parasites such as the mites L. cysticola can easily remain undetected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The current study aimed to study morphological peculiarities of of the Lumbosacral Region of Cattle Egret with special reference to the glycogen body. The lumbosacral organ (LSO) is a unique modification in the spinal cord of all birds. Twenty adult cattle egret of both sexes are used to describe the morphological and histological peculiarities of this organ in cattle egret. The synsacrum of these birds was examined by gross, cross-sectional anatomy, Computed Tomography (CT), and transverse histological sections with different stains. The morphological peculiarities of the lumbosacral region of cattle egret includes enlarged vertebral canal in the region of synsacrum. This enlargement is due to the presence of a gelatinous glycogen body embedded in the rhomboid sinus of the spinal cord. Accessory lobes protrude at the ventrolateral end of the ventral horns in the vertebral canal. Transverse lumbosacral canals similar to semicircular canals above the spinal cord. The spinal cord is fixed to the vertebra by a network of dentate ligaments. Histologically both glycogen body and accessory lobes contain glycogen-containing glia cells. These cells were polygonal with narrow cytoplasmic rim and nucleus pushed to periphery by a central mass of glycogen. The blood capillaries were distributed throughout the glycogen body and accessory lobes. The connective tissue was very scanty except in the vicinity of the blood capillaries and central canal. The accessory lobes contain multipolar neurons scattered between the glia cells. The transverse lumbosacral canals were fluid-filled meningeal tubes that arch dorsally over the spinal cord and open laterally above the accessory lobes. The network of dentate ligaments formed from regular dense fibrous connective tissues mainly collagenous fibers. Therefore this work concluded that the proposition of the anatomical and histological modifications of the lumbosacral region might act as a sense organ of equilibrium control the balanced walking on the ground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, Tuberculosis (TB) can be considered a serious illness affecting people over the globe and it leads to mortality when left untreated. Chest X-Ray (CXR) is the topmost selection for the recognition of pulmonary diseases in hospitals since it can be cost-efficient and easily available in many nations. But, manual CXR image screening is a huge load for radiologists, which results in a maximum inter-observer discrepancy rate. At present, Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) is a powerful imaging equipment for detecting and screening dangerous ailments. In recent times, Deep Learning (DL) based CAD schemes have demonstrated positive outcomes in the recognition of TB diseases. This study introduces an Egret Swarm Optimization Algorithm with Deep Feature Fusion based Tuberculosis Classification (ESOA-DFFTC) technique on CXR Images. The presented ESOA-DFFTC technique utilizes feature fusion and tuning processes for the classification of TB. To accomplish this, the ESOA-DFFTC model first exploits the Gaussian Filtering (GF) approach for image denoising purposes. Next, the ESOA-DFFTC model performs a feature fusion process using three DL models namely ResNeXt-50, MobileNetv2, and Xception. To enhance the achievement of the DL models, the ESOA-based hyperparameter optimizer is implemented in the study. For TB classification, the ESOA-DFFTC methodology uses an Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (AOA) with Weight-Dropped Long Short-Term Memory (WDLSTM) methodology. The investigational output of the ESOA-DFFTC system was examined on a benchmark medical imaging dataset. A wide comparative investigation stated the greater achievement of the ESOA-DFFTC system over other current algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]