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Abstract Fractional quantum Hall (FQH) phases emerge due to strong electronic interactions and are characterized by anyonic quasiparticles, each distinguished by unique topological parameters, fractional charge, and statistics. In contrast, the integer quantum Hall (IQH) effects can be understood from the band topology of non-interacting electrons. We report a surprising super-universality of the critical behavior across all FQH and IQH transitions. Contrary to the anticipated state-dependent critical exponents, our findings reveal the same critical scaling exponent κ = 0.41 ± 0.02 and localization length exponent γ = 2.4 ± 0.2 for fractional and integer quantum Hall transitions. From these, we extract the value of the dynamical exponent z ≈ 1. We have achieved this in ultra-high mobility trilayer graphene devices with a metallic screening layer close to the conduction channels. The observation of these global critical exponents across various quantum Hall phase transitions was masked in previous studies by significant sample-to-sample variation in the measured values of κ in conventional semiconductor heterostructures, where long-range correlated disorder dominates. We show that the robust scaling exponents are valid in the limit of short-range disorder correlations.

Species-specific interferon responses are shaped by the virus-host arms race. The human interferon-induced transmembrane protein (IFITM) family consists of three antiviral IFITM genes that arose by gene duplication. These genes restrict virus entry and are key players in antiviral interferon responses. The unique IFITM repertoires in different species influence their resistance to viral infections, but the role of IFITMs in shaping the enhanced antiviral immunity of reservoir bat species is unclear. Here, we identified an IFITM gene in Chinese rufous horseshoe bat, a natural host of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-related coronaviruses, that is alternatively spliced to produce two IFITM isoforms in native cells as shown by transcriptomics. These bat IFITMs have conserved structures in vitro as demonstrated by circular dichroism spectroscopy, yet they exhibit distinct antiviral specificities against influenza A virus, Nipah virus and coronaviruses including SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV. In parallel with human IFITM1-3, bat IFITM isoforms localize to distinct sites of virus entry which influences their antiviral potency. Further bioinformatic analysis of IFITM repertoires in 206 mammals reveals that alternative splicing is a recurring strategy for IFITM diversification, albeit less widely adopted than gene duplication. These findings demonstrate that alternative splicing is a key strategy for evolutionary diversification in the IFITM family. Our study also highlights an example of convergent evolution where species-specific selection pressures led to expansion of the IFITM family through multiple means, underscoring the importance of IFITM diversity as a component of innate immunity.

This research aims to isolate, characterize, and analyze pure compounds from Leea macrophylla leaf extract to investigate its antibacterial, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, and phytotoxic effects. Fresh leaves were collected, dried, and subjected to methanol extraction to obtain a crude extract. From the petroleum ether fraction (PEF) of this extract, three fractions—designated LM1, LM2, and LM3—were prepared using column chromatography. The fractions were tried to be characterized in search for single compound by instrumental technique like ATR-FTIR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR but the 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra were found complex which were difficult to interpret. To dispel the doubt and get clear idea about the structure, GC-MS analysis of the compounds was carried out whose result showed that all the three extracts were decomposed to several small organic compounds that made the structure elucidation difficult. For this complication, the characterization of the extracts was not possible. Numerous compounds were identified in the methanol extract of L. macrophylla through GC-MS analysis. Among these compounds, Benzene, 1,2,3-trimethyl- and Undecane were found in higher percentages in LM1. LM2 contained Azulene and Bicyclo [4.4.1]undeca-1,3,5,7,9-pentaene, while LM3 was characterized by the presence of 9,9-Dimethoxybicyclo [3.3.1]nona-2,4-dione and 11-(2-Cyclopenten-1-yl)undecanoic acid, among others. The antibacterial activity of these fractions was evaluated against various bacterial strains, demonstrating broad-spectrum effectiveness. LM1 fraction showed the highest antibacterial activity against Proteus sp. With zone of inhibition 25 mm and weak activity against S. sonnei with zone of inhibition 5 mm. LM2 showed the highest activity to both E. cocci and P. aeruginosa with the zone of inhibition of 18 mm and comparatively lower but significant against Proteus sp. LM3 was highly active to S. sonnei with zone of inhibition 20 mm and lower but quite significant against Proteus sp. Moreover, the anti-diabetic potential was assessed, with LM1 showing the strongest α-amylase inhibitory activity, outperforming quercetin (standard). The IC50 values of LM1, LM2, LM3, and quercetin were 57.36 μg/mL, 100.66 μg/mL, 164.92 μg/mL, and 97.45 μg/mL, respectively. In addition, cytotoxicity was assessed using a brine shrimp lethality bioassay, and phytotoxicity was evaluated through seed germination and growth assays. The results suggest that L. macrophylla leaf extracts have potential applications in antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anti-cancer contexts. This comprehensive study bridges gaps in knowledge surrounding L. macrophylla's multifaceted properties, offering insights into its therapeutic and ecological potential for healthcare and environmental management.

The misuse and overuse of steroid hormones in fish is an emerging problem worldwide. The data on hormonal residue in fish was less due to a lack of effective monitoring programs on hormonal use in fish production. This review revealed the findings of previously published data on different hormonal use and their residue and impact. Steroid hormones were frequently used in fish production to promote growth and reproduction. It was suggested that hormones should be used carefully to ensure environmental, biological, and food safety. The most commonly used steroid hormones in fish production were testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol. However, the indiscriminate use left residue in the fish flesh above the FAO/WHO permissible limits. This residue in fish caused many health hazards in consumers, like early puberty in children, advances in bone age, negative repercussions on growth, modification of sexual characteristics, and cancer development such as breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. It also harmed fish and the aquatic environment. The most common detection methods for these hormones were GC-MS, LC-MS, and UHPLC-MS. Many countries permitted the use of hormones in fish production upon monitoring, whereas many countries prohibited it. Moreover, many countries did not have any rules and regulations on the use of hormones in fish production. Thus, this review is a wake-up call for researchers, policymakers and consumers on the impacts of hormonal residues in food commodities.

The emergence of bacteria that is resistant to several drugs of clinical importance poses a threat to successful treatment, a phenomenon known as multidrug resistance that affects diverse classes of antibiotics. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus in chicken egg, meat and faeces from four districts of Bangladesh. A total of 120 chicken samples were collected from different poultry farms. Conventional culture and molecular detection methods were used for identification of bacterial isolates from the collected samples followed by antibiotic susceptibility test through the disc diffusion method, finally antibiotic resistant genes were detected by PCR. E. coli, Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus were detected in meat, egg and faecal samples. Antimicrobial susceptibility results revealed isolates from faeces were 100 % resistant to amoxicillin, while all S. aureus and Salmonella sp. from faeces were resistant to doxycycline, tetracycline and erythromycin. Salmonella spp. isolates from eggs indicated 100 % resistance to erythromycin, amoxycillin, while E. coli were 100 % resistant to erythromycin. E. coli and S. aureus from meat were 100 % resistant to amoxicillin and erythromycin. However, Salmonella spp. from eggs were 100 % susceptible to doxycycline, gentamicin, levofloxacin and tetracycline. The mecA and aac(3)-IV genes were only found in S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. The Sul1, tetB, and aadA1 were highest in Salmonella spp. and S. aureus, while the sul1, tetA and blaSHV were higher in E. coli. Isolates from all samples were multidrug resistant. These findings indicate a high risk of transmission of resistance genes from microbial contamination to food of animal origin. The study emphasizes the need for effective biosecurity measures, responsible antibiotic use, and strict regulations in poultry production to prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Objective: The present study looked at how electrolytes, hormones, and postpartum reproductive physiology were affected in black Bengal goats (BBGs) when they were fed a phthalate mixture (PHA). Materials and Methods: Twenty clinically healthy BBGs, 1–2 months pregnant, aged 6–8 months with a body weight of 10–12 kg, were chosen and randomly allocated to two experimental groups (n = 10 each). The BBGs of the treatment group (n = 10) were administered a standard ration containing a mixture of Diethyl Phthalate, Dibutyl Phthalate, Di-isobutyl Phthalate, and Dipropyl Phthalate. The non-treated control group (n = 10) received the goat ration without any phthalates up to parturition. Blood samples were taken from experimental pregnant goats just before parturition to analyze serum hormone and electrolyte levels. Results: The levels of sodium, chloride, and calcium were reduced (p < 0.05) in PHA-exposed goats than in the non-exposed control group. No significant difference was observed in potassium and phosphorus levels between the two groups. PHA-exposed goats showed significantly decreased levels of estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroxin compared to control goats (p < 0.05). Postpartum reproductive traits, such as gestation length, postpartum heat period, abortion rate, and retained placenta, were significantly (p < 0.05) prolonged in BBG that had been exposed to PHA. Conclusion: PHA plasticizer exposure during pregnancy affects the electrolytes, hormones, and postpartum reproductive physiology of BBGs. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1051-1056]

Abstract We analyze superconductivity in a multi-orbital fermionic system near the onset of a nematic order, using doped FeSe as an example. We associate nematicity with spontaneous polarization between d xz and d yz orbitals. We derive pairing interaction, mediated by soft nematic fluctuations, and show that it is attractive, and its strength depends on the position on the Fermi surface. As the consequence, right at the nematic quantum-critical point (QCP), superconducting gap opens up at T c only at special points and extends into finite arcs at T

Objective: The study was primarily conducted to assess the stakeholders' knowledge regarding the contamination caused by heavy metals in poultry feedstuffs. The concentration of some heavy metals (lead, chromium, cadmium, and nickel) and macro-minerals (sodium, potassium, and calcium) was also analyzed in poultry feeds collected from selected local markets in Sherpur district, Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: A well-structured questionnaire survey was used to investigate different stakeholders' perspectives in relation to metal contamination in feed. Heavy metals and calcium were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The flame emission spectrophotometric technique was applied to determine sodium and potassium. Results: The majority of the stakeholders (90%) were found to have no knowledge regarding heavy metal contamination. Lead and nickel concentrations were below the detectable level in the collected samples. The average concentration of chromium in Jhenaigati upazila was four times higher than in Nalitabari upazila, at 21.806 mg kg−1 and 5.452 mg kg−1, respectively. The concentrations of cadmium in both brand and nonbrand samples exceeded the maximum allowable limit set by the European Union at 1.329 mg kg−1 and 1.328 mg kg−1, respectively. Sodium, potassium, and calcium were found in the ranges of 0.0011%–0.0035%, 0.0010%–0.0013%, and 0.0080%–0.0305%, which were extremely low in concentration compared to the minimum requirement in poultry feed. Conclusion: Regular surveillance and governance systems should be incorporated into national policy to cease the hazardous impacts of heavy metals through feed contamination. From a nutritional viewpoint, poultry feeds need to be critically formulated. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(1.000): 47-54]

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of chia seed extract on CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity, hematological profile, and carrageenan-induced inflammation in rats. Water-ethanol-acetone extract of chia seeds at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight/day were applied to evaluate the comparative protective roles. Hematological profile and serum biochemical parameters were measured to evaluate the hematoprotective, and hepatoprotective effects of chia seed extract. Paw thickness and motility level were assessed at 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 h after sub-planter injection of carrageenan to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential. Tissue histopathology was performed in both cases. Chia seed extract reduced the elevated level of serum AST and ALT significantly in a dose-dependent manner following intra-peritoneal injection of CCl4. Histopathological study of the liver tissue exhibited acute impairment of the hepatocytes and liver parenchyma following CCl4 exposure, which was markedly regenerated by the chia seed extract treatment. Protective effects of the extracts were also evidenced by the RBC count, Hb (%), PCV (%), ESR, and neutrophil count. Chia seed extract was found to inhibit the carrageenan-induced paw edema and increase motility level in a dose-oriented fashion. Histological examination of the paw tissue revealed severe inflammation characterized by massive infiltration of inflammatory cells in the carrageenan group, which was significantly reduced by chia seed extract treatment. The higher dose of chia seed extract showed significant increases in bodyweight gain and feed efficiency ratio but decrease in visceral fat deposition. These results suggest that chia seeds possess potentials for hematoprotective, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities.

Deep learning (DL) has emerged as a powerful technique for a wide range of computer vision applications. Consequently, DL is also being adopted to process geospatial and remote sensing (RS) images. As these methods are sporadic over different studies, many review papers have also been published to gather the approaches and summarize the existing models in this field. However, a state-of-the-art review paper is still scarce in this field that will present a bibliometric analysis as well as a critical analysis of the recent works. Therefore, this article aims to spur the researchers with a bibliometric analysis to identify the current research trend. As a research sample, in total, 281 related papers were collected from the Web of Science source, and bibliometric analysis was accomplished using VOSviewer software. Among the collection of associated works from the database, 28 papers were selected according to the defined criteria for detailed analysis. Besides this, a few research questions were generated to extract necessary information from the literature for extracting the pros and cons of the selected works. DL techniques were applied in these works and achieved results. Furthermore, the papers were also categorized based on the addressed RS application domain.

Background and Aim: Informal prescribers (IPs) significantly contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance and in disseminating pathogens from poultry to humans and other animals through the food chain, posing a serious global health threat. Therefore, this study aimed to assess whether the knowledge of IPs has an impact on their attitude and practice toward antimicrobial use, antibiotic residues, and antimicrobial resistance. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a pre-tested and questionnaire-based survey to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of IPs in selected parts of the Mymensingh division, Bangladesh. Then, we used the linear regression model test with R-squared (R2) to measure the association between the study variables. Results: Our investigation revealed that 70% of the IPs knew about antibiotics and 75% had good knowledge about antibiotic resistance, whereas only 50% were aware of withdrawal periods. Informal prescribers also displayed good attitudes toward the use and sale of antibiotics with withdrawal periods and completion of medication (50%). Analysis of their practice on the sale and prescription of antibiotics showed that 70% and 30% of IPs use antibiotics against bacterial infections and other conditions, respectively. Most of them do not consult a veterinarian before selling or prescribing antibiotics, although 80% claim to do so. This is because 75% of IPs gave other options regarding their consultations. However, 95% of IPs uses antibiotics only for therapeutic purposes. Furthermore, only 10% sell antibiotics based on a veterinarian’s recommendation. Approximately 45% of IPs use single antibiotics at a time, while the rest use multiple antibiotics, individually or combined. Approximately 15% use antibiotics monthly, while 85% use them whenever the need arises. The knowledge and attitude of IPs are significantly affected by their age (p ≤ 0.025). The district of domicile also impacted their knowledge. Surprisingly, IPs from Jamalpur had significantly better knowledge compared to those from Mymensingh and Sherpur (p ≤ 0.01). The attitude of IPs from Jamalpur and Netrokona also differed significantly (p ≤ 0.001) from that of Mymensingh and Sherpur. The knowledge of IPs influenced their attitude up to 80.5% (r2 = 0.628) and their practice up to 75.4% (r2 = 0.545). Conclusion: The knowledge of IPs greatly influenced their attitude and practice, while sociodemographics also influenced their knowledge and attitude toward antimicrobial use, antibiotic residues, and antimicrobial resistance.

Background and Aim: Antibiotic residues in livestock farming have been identified as a potential cause of antimicrobial resistance in humans and animals. This study aimed to determine whether antibiotic residues were present in the chicken meat, eggs, feces, and feed collected from all four districts in the Mymensingh division of Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: To detect antibiotic residues in the collected samples, qualitative thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used. A total of 230 samples were analyzed for commonly used 11 antibiotics residue. Out of these, 40 meats and 40 feces samples were collected from broilers and layers, 30 egg samples from duck and layer, and 120 feed samples from both broilers and layers from the study area. Thin-layer chromatography was used for screening the presence of antibiotic residues; TLC-positive samples were then subjected to further HPLC analysis to determine the residue concentrations. Results: Thin-layer chromatography analysis revealed that 23.5% of the tested samples contained residues from six different antibiotic classes (tetracyclines, quinolones, beta-lactams, sulfonamides, aminoglycosides, and macrolides). Thin-layer chromatography analysis showed that 35% and 25% of the meat samples were positive for residues from the broiler and layer, respectively. About 15% and 30% of layer and duck egg samples had positive residues, respectively. Out of 120 feed samples analyzed, about 15.8% had various antibiotic residues. In addition, feces samples from broilers and layers had 50% and 35% antibiotic residues, respectively. A total of 2.5% meat and 3.3% egg samples had antibiotic residues above the maximum residue limit (MRL). Based on the findings of this study, the highest percentage of oxytetracycline, followed by doxycycline and ciprofloxacin, were detected in feed samples, and oxytetracycline was detected in meat and egg samples. Conclusion: This study clearly showed the misuse of antibiotics in the poultry sector in Bangladesh. Although antibiotic residues below the MRL level are suitable for human consumption, they may result in antimicrobial drug resistance to pathogens.

Several environmental pollutants, mostly chemicals and plasticizers, have an effect on the reproduction of small ruminants, causing abortion, delayed estrus, and decreased fertility. Phthalates are common in our environment and have been identified as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The research work investigated the impact of dietary exposure to a phthalate mixture on physical and hemato-biochemical parameters in pregnant Black Bengal (BB) goats. A total of 20 clinically healthy, 1–2 months pregnant, aged 6–8 months with a body weight of 10–12 kg BB goats were collected and divided into two (n = 10) groups. The treatment group received a standard goat ration with a combination of different phthalates mixture while the control group was provided the same ration with the vehicle of aphthalatemixture until parturition. The physical parameters were measured with appropriate tools and blood samples were collected for hemato-biochemical tests. The results showed that the physiological parameters (body condition score, respiration rate and heart rate) were significantly (P

This study aims to provide a thorough ecological understanding of fin fish diversity within carp spawning grounds in the Surma River and Tanguar haor. Over two spawning seasons, this research investigates ecological factors impacting fin fish diversity and abundance in carp spawning grounds of the Surma River and Tanguar haor, emphasizing water quality, habitat features, spawn availability, and environmental influences. Fish spawn samples were collected with eight “Savar nets” at chosen sites and reared in a fiberglass tank at the mini hatchery for species identification. The representative spawn samples were examined under a microscope for preliminary species identification before rearing. The study found that both the Surma River and Tanguar haor offer ideal conditions for carp spawning due to factors such as water quality, natural food availability, habitat suitability, and favorable climatic conditions. The study identified 39 fish species under the 10 fish groups from both locations, with a higher percentage of carp species (31.42%) in the Surma River in 2021 compared to 2022 (22.50%). In Tanguar haor, the percentage of carp species was 7.55% and 6.50% in 2021 and 2022, respectively. The Surma River’s ecological indices (2021-2022) indicated decreased diversity, likely due to environmental degradation, while Tanguar haor showed lower diversity possibly attributable to multiple environmental stressors. The dominant carp species, Labeo calbasu, Labeo bata, and Labeo gonius, were identified in both the Surma River and Tanguar haor. The spawning distribution varied among different locations, with some sites showing a presence of carp species, such as Hajipur T1 in the Surma River and Alam Duar T2 in Tanguar haor. The findings highlight the importance of hydrological and environmental parameters in shaping carp spawning habitat distribution and abundance, contributing to aquatic biodiversity conservation and resource management.

Abstract Background Despite technological advancement in the field of healthcare, the worldwide burden of illness caused by cardio-vascular diseases (CVDs) is rising, owing mostly to a sharp increase in developing nations that are undergoing fast health transitions. People have been experimenting with techniques to extend their lives since ancient times. Despite this, technology is still a long way from attaining the aim of lowering mortality rates. Methods From methodological perspective, a design Science Research (DSR) approach is adopted in this research. As such, to investigate the current healthcare and interaction systems created for predicting cardiac disease for patients, we first analyzed the body of existing literature. After that, a conceptual framework of the system was designed using the gathered requirements. Based on the conceptual framework, the development of different components of the system was completed. Finally, the evaluation study procedure was developed taking into account the effectiveness, usability and efficiency of the developed system. Results To attain the objectives, we proposed a system consisting of a wearable device and mobile application, which allows the users to know their risk levels of having CVDs in the future. The Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques were adopted to develop the system that can classify its users into three risk levels (high, moderate and low risk of having CVD) with an F1 score of 80.4% and two risk levels (high and low risk of having CVD) with an F1 score of 91%. The stacking classifier incorporating best-performing ML algorithms was used for predicting the risk levels of the end-users utilizing the UCI Repository dataset. Conclusion The resultant system allows the users to check and monitor their possibility of having CVD in near future using real-time data. Also, the system was evaluated from the Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) point of view. Thus, the created system offers a promising resolution to the current biomedical sector. Trial Registration Not Applicable.

Background and Aim: The bovine industry is threatened by one of the most serious and deadly enteric diseases, calf diarrhea, particularly in developing nations like Bangladesh. In this context, bacterial resistance to antimicrobial drugs and its detrimental consequences have become a critical public health issue that is difficult to address globally. This study aimed to isolate and identify Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. with their antibiogram and antibiotic resistance gene detection from sulfonamide-treated diarrheic calves. Materials and Methods: Twelve diarrheic calves suffering from calf diarrhea in a dairy farm were selected and a total of 36 fecal samples were aseptically collected directly from rectum before, during, and at the end of treatment for each calf to determine the total viable count, total E. coli count and total Salmonella count. A polymerase chain reaction was used for the specific detection of E. coli and Salmonella genus targeting fliC and invA genes, respectively. Antibiotic sensitivity test of the isolated E. coli and Salmonella spp. were performed by the disk diffusion method for eight commonly used antibiotics. Results: A total of 36 E. coli (100%) and 12 Salmonella spp. (33%) were isolated from the samples and were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Total viable count was found to be ranged from 35 × 107 to 99 × 1010 colony-forming unit (CFU)/g fecal sample before starting sulfonamide treatment, 34 × 105 to 25 × 1010 CFU/g during treatment with sulfonamide, and 48 × 103 to 69 × 1010 CFU/g immediately after completion of sulfonamide treatment. Total E. coli count was found to be ranged from 4 × 104 to 36 × 1010 CFU/g, 24 × 104 to 23 × 108 CFU/g, and 13 × 104 to 85 × 1010 CFU/g, whereas total Salmonella count was found to be ranged from 16 × 106 to 18.5 × 1011 CFU/g, 15 × 104 to 44 × 107 CFU/g, and 13.2 × 105 to 21 × 1010 CFU/g fecal sample before starting sulfonamide treatment, during treatment with sulfonamide immediately after completion of sulfonamide treatment, respectively. The in vitro antibiotic sensitivity test showed that all the E. coli and Salmonella spp. isolated from diarrheic calves (100%) contained multidrug-resistant (MDR) phenotypes. Escherichia coli isolates were found 100% resistant to amoxicillin (AMX), cefuroxime, cephalexin (CN), erythromycin (ERY), and tetracycline (TET); whereas 94.4%, 86.1%, and 77.8% isolates were resistant to doxycycline (DOX), moxifloxacin (MOF), and gentamycin (GEN), respectively. In case of Salmonella isolates, all were found 100% resistant to AMX, CN, and ERY; whereas 91.7% of resistance was observed for DOX, MOF, cefuroxime, GEN, and TET. Based on the molecular screening of the antibiotic resistance genes, tetA gene was present in 83.3% of the isolated E. coli and 75% of the isolated Salmonella strains, whereas 83.3% E. coli and 79.2% Salmonella isolates contained blaTEM gene. Conclusion: These findings suggest that MDR E. coli and Salmonella spp. might be responsible for calf scouring, which is challenging to treat with antibiotics or sulfonamide drugs alone. Therefore, it is important to check the antibiotic sensitivity pattern to select a suitable antibiotic for the treatment of calf scoring. A suitable antibiotic or combination of an antibiotic and sulfonamide could be effective against E. coli and Salmonella spp. responsible for calf scouring.

Objective: The research was designed to assess the consequences of Azadirachta indica aqueous leaf extract (AILE) on neuropathic pain in Wister rats and the role of the ATP-dependent potassium channel (KATP) as an underlying mechanism. Materials and Methods: This experimental layout was conducted on Wistar rats (n = 120) having 150 to 200 gm of body weight. On the foundation of the experimental design, rats were divided into group I (normal saline, 5 ml/kg/body weight) and group II (sham surgery and treatment with NS), group III [chronic constriction injury (CCI) in the sciatic nerve; and treated with NS], group IV (CCI and treated with AILE 400 mg/kg body weight), Group V (CCI, pretreated with Glibenclamide 15 mg/kg followed by treated with AILE 400 mg/kg). All the treatments were given once daily for a consecutive 21 days via the oral route, except Glibenclamide. Glibenclamide was given once through the intraperitoneal route on the day of the experiment. Results: Based on the neuropathic pain evaluation test, all groups were again sub-divided into subgroup "a" (walking tract analysis), "b" (cold tail immersion test), "c" (Von Frey test), and "d" (hot plate test). AILE showed a significantly higher sciatic functional index (p < 0.05) in walking track analysis, tail flick latency (p ≤ 0.05) in the cold tail immersion test, and paw withdrawal threshold (p ≤ 0.05) in the Von Frey test compared to CCI control. In addition, a nonsignificant difference in all these above-mentioned variables between the rats with CCI plus AILE and the CCI plus AILE plus glibenclamide group indicated that the KATP channel was not involved in the beneficial analgesic effects of AILE. Conclusions: The outcome of the present study indicates that AILE prevented worsening of neu¬ropathic pain after chronic constriction injury in the sciatic nerve of Wistar rats in which the KATP channel was not involved. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(3.000): 359-368]

Background & objective: Developing countries are presently witnessing a great burden of rapid aging followed by losing the social values of older adults due to age-related cognitive impairment as well as rising depression levels. This study was designed to assess the cognitive impairment and depression status combinedly among older adults in elderly care homes. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey among randomly selected 200 older adults aged between 60 and 80 years residing in some old homes in Dhaka district, Bangladesh. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews while Cognitive function and level of depression were assessed by applying the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Results: Among all the respondents, the majority (81.5%) were staying in old homes for 1–5 years. The majority (91.0%) had difficulties with vision, 40.7% had difficulties with hearing and 19.6% had difficulties moving around. The MMSE test revealed that 43% had moderate cognitive impairment, 36% had mild and 19.5% were found normal while more than half (56%) had severe depression. Significant cognitive impairment was found among the illiterate respondents who did not have any family care support. In addition, higher-educated respondents were found to have more severe depression (OR/p = 6.33/

Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a pivotal role in immuno-oncology, which investigates the intricate interactions between tumors and the human immune system. Specifically, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are crucial biomarkers for evaluating the prognosis of breast cancer patients and have the potential to refine immunotherapy precision and accurately identify tumor cells in specific cancer types. In this study, we conducted tissue segmentation and lymphocyte detection tasks to predict TIL scores by employing self-supervised learning (SSL) model-based approaches capable of addressing limited labeling data issues. Our experiments showed a 1.9% improvement in tissue segmentation and a 2% improvement in lymphocyte detection over the ImageNet pre-training model. Using these SSL-based models, we achieved a TIL score of 0.718 with a 4.4% improvement. In particular, when trained with only 10% of the entire dataset, the SwAV pre-trained model exhibited a superior performance over other models. Our work highlights improved tissue segmentation and lymphocyte detection using the SSL model with less labeled data for TIL score prediction.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the persistence of oxytetracycline (OTC) residue in common fish species (Catla, Rui, Mrigal, and Pangas) available in local fish markets and the corresponding transport water of the Mymensingh region. Materials and Methods: Live fish and corresponding transport water samples were analyzed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography for qualitative and quantitative detection of OTC residue, respectively. A total of 240 fish samples and 60 water samples were randomly collected from three local fish markets during the summer and winter seasons. Results: OTC residues were detected in 18 samples (13 fish and 5 water samples) in the summer and 8 samples (only fish samples) in the winter. The overall percentage of antibiotic residue positive in fish samples was 5.42%, and in water samples, it was 8.33%. In fish, OTC concentrations of TLC-positive samples ranged from 34.7 to 56.85 parts per billion (ppb) in Catla, 23.45–35.37 in Rui, 11.02–26.80 in Mrigal, and 10.80–77.55 in Pangas during summer. The concentrations were 18.5 ppb in Catla, 15–16.09 in Rui, 10–14.63 in Mrigal, and 21.02–40.11 in Pangas during the win¬ter season. On the other hand, the range of OTC concentrations of TLC-positive samples for water was 12.9–59.18 ppb during summer and below the detection level during winter. The highest prevalence of antibiotic residues among fish samples was found in Pangas (16.67%). The highest percentage of samples (15% in the fish sample and 30% in the water sample) found to be positive were collected from Mechua Bazar. The comparison between the summer and winter seasons showed that the percentage of positive antibiotic residue in the summer season (10.38% for fish and 16.67% for water) is higher than that of the winter season (6.67% for fish samples only). This variation indicates that fish transporters use more antibiotics during the summer than in the winter season. The difference between the means of fish species and water samples was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In addition, no samples exceeded the maximum residue limits (MRL) of OTC (100 ppb) in fish set by the European Commission. Conclusion: Although the concentrations of antibiotic residues in fish edible tissues are below MRL values, the presence of antibiotic residues in transported water may lead to the development of antimicrobial resistance bacteria that are detrimental to humans, animals, and aquatic animals. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 104-112]

Deep learning techniques have recently demonstrated remarkable success in numerous domains. Typically, the success of these deep learning models is measured in terms of performance metrics such as accuracy and mean average precision (mAP). Generally, a model's high performance is highly valued, but it frequently comes at the expense of substantial energy costs and carbon footprint emissions during the model building step. Massive emission of CO2 has a deleterious impact on life on earth in general and is a serious ethical concern that is largely ignored in deep learning research. In this article, we mainly focus on environmental costs and the means of mitigating carbon footprints in deep learning models, with a particular focus on models created using knowledge distillation (KD). Deep learning models typically contain a large number of parameters, resulting in a 'heavy' model. A heavy model scores high on performance metrics but is incompatible with mobile and edge computing devices. Model compression techniques such as knowledge distillation enable the creation of lightweight, deployable models for these low-resource devices. KD generates lighter models and typically performs with slightly less accuracy than the heavier teacher model (model accuracy by the teacher model on CIFAR 10, CIFAR 100, and TinyImageNet is 95.04%, 76.03%, and 63.39%; model accuracy by KD is 91.78%, 69.7%, and 60.49%). Although the distillation process makes models deployable on low-resource devices, they were found to consume an exorbitant amount of energy and have a substantial carbon footprint (15.8, 17.9, and 13.5 times more carbon compared to the corresponding teacher model). The enormous environmental cost is primarily attributable to the tuning of the hyperparameter, Temperature (τ). In this article, we propose measuring the environmental costs of deep learning work (in terms of GFLOPS in millions, energy consumption in kWh, and CO2 equivalent in grams). In order to create lightweight models with low environmental costs, we propose a straightforward yet effective method for selecting a hyperparameter (τ) using a stochastic approach for each training batch fed into the models. We applied knowledge distillation (including its data-free variant) to problems involving image classification and object detection. To evaluate the robustness of our method, we ran experiments on various datasets (CIFAR 10, CIFAR 100, Tiny ImageNet, and PASCAL VOC) and models (ResNet18, MobileNetV2, Wrn-40-2). Our novel approach reduces the environmental costs by a large margin by eliminating the requirement of expensive hyperparameter tuning without sacrificing performance. Empirical results on the CIFAR 10 dataset show that the stochastic technique achieves an accuracy of 91.67%, whereas tuning achieves an accuracy of 91.78%-however, the stochastic approach reduces the energy consumption and CO2 equivalent each by a factor of 19. Similar results have been obtained with CIFAR 100 and TinyImageNet dataset. This pattern is also observed in object detection classification on the PASCAL VOC dataset, where the tuning technique performs similarly to the stochastic technique, with a difference of 0.03% mAP favoring the stochastic technique while reducing the energy consumptions and CO2 emission each by a factor of 18.5.

Tuberculosis is our old enemy while COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) is a novel one. Both diseases have many similarities in terms of target organ affected, transmission, clinical presentations. COVID-19 is a fast-track novel pandemic while tuberculosis is a slow-moving pandemic. As control measures, countries all over the globe have enforced lockdown to halt the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, but this stringent method has a negative impact on access to the health care delivery system. It seems that there is a dropping of new case findings, but modeling projection by WHO estimates that the total number of tuberculosis cases will rise by 2025. Bangladesh is a high Tuberculosis burden country in the south Asia region. Worldwide COVID-19 has a negative impact on tuberculosis diagnosis and management strategy. Bangladesh has impending threat to rise in tuberculosis case in future because of lockdown process, densely populated nation, poverty, reallocation of tuberculosis diagnostic facility and trained staff to diagnose COVID-19 and collapse of DOTS (directly observed treatment, short-course) program of NTP (national tuberculosis control program), rampant use of immunosuppressant’s including steroid, biologics. Prompt tuberculosis case detection, digital supervised drug delivery, avoidance of injudicious use of steroids, biologics to treat COVID-19, and testing for both COVID-19 and tuberculosis should be simultaneously undertaken to tackle this overwhelming situation. Eradication of psycho-social stigma about these two diseases is essential for preventing a perfect storm. BSMMU J 2022; 15(1): 54-56

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 infection in children and adult. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in multiple corona dedicated hospitals, situated in Dhaka, Bangladesh from April 2020 to January 2021. Data of COVID -19 positive hospitalized patients were collected in a pre-tested question- naire during hospital stay with proper protective measures. Clinical characteristics of the COVID-19 positive hospitalized children and adult patients were evaluated. Approval was taken from institutional review board of respective institutes. Statistical analyses of the results were obtained by using SPSS-25. In this study the male-to-female ratio was 1:1.6 and 2.8:1 in child and adult patients respectively. More than three quarter (75.4%) of subjects had family members affected before the illness in the child group and more than half (50.9%) cases in the adult group. History of contact or exposure with any symptomatic case was present in 61.4% cases in the adult group but only 14% in the child group. The mean duration of illness was less (9.1}8.6 days) in the child group than in the adult group (14.8}9.5 days). The difference was statistically significant (p1010 F) was found in the majori- ty (86.0%) subjects' in the child group than in the adult group where it was 50.9%. The mean SPo2 without oxygen was 96.8}1.2% in the child group and 92.8}5.7% in the adult group. Ten (17.5%) subjects had a symptom-free total illness in the child group and 3(5.3%) in the adult group. The difference in temperature, SPo2 without oxygen, consciousness, and symptom-free total illness were statistically significant (p

Aim: The study was conducted to observe the effects of dexamethasone (DEX) on the gross study and histomorphometry of liver and on the alterations of biochemical parameters of broilers. Materials and Methods: Ninety day-old chicks were collected and assigned to one of three groups: The control, Group A, and Group B. The control, Group A, and Group B were fed for 28 days with a homemade ration, a commercial broiler type ration, and a homemade ration with DEX (7 mg/kg feed), respectively. Liver samples were collected from the individual birds after sacrificing on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 of the experiment. Morphometric characteristics (length, weight, color, and texture) of the liver were examined. Histomorphological alterations of the liver were assessed with routine hematoxylin and eosin staining. To measure the biochemical parameters, blood samples were collected on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 of the experiment. Liver function test was performed spectrophotometrically by analyzing serum biochemical markers, that is, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was performed for the detection of hepatic steroids. Results: Hemorrhagic and congested livers were found in broilers of Group B. There were no significant changes found in weight and length of the livers; only numerical decrease in weight and length was observed in birds of Group B. Liver width was increased in Group B on day 21. Histological observation of livers showed accumulation of lipid droplets, congestion of the sinusoids, and central veins in broilers of Group B. Biochemical analyses showed increased levels of ALT in Group B as compared to Group A on day 14 of the experiment. TLC evaluation revealed a positive result in Group B on 28 days of the experiment. Conclusion: The present study results show that DEX may alter the liver morphology and the concentration of ALT in the circulation of broilers.

There are substantial public health consequences when hazardous heavy metal contaminants and antimicrobial drug residues are present in broiler edible tissues. This study aimed to assess the concentration of antimicrobial drugs and heavy metals residues in broiler meat, bones and edible composites (combinations of liver, kidney and gizzard). Samples were collected from different types of broiler farms, broiler wet meat markets and supermarkets, covering all five divisions of Bangladesh. The antimicrobial drug and heavy metal residues were analyzed by uHPLC and ICP-MS, respectively. In addition, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among broiler meat consumers in the study areas to evaluate their attitude towards the consumption of broiler meat. The survey clearly stated that broiler meat consumers in Bangladesh have a negative attitude toward the consumption of broiler meat, although all respondents reported to eat broiler meat regularly. The antibiotic with the highest prevalence of residues in broiler edible tissues was oxytetracycline, followed by doxycycline, sulphadiazine and chloramphenicol. On the other hand, all collected broiler edible tissues contained chromium and lead, followed by arsenic. The fact of the matter is that the antimicrobial drugs and heavy metals residues were found to be below the maximum residue limit (MRL), except for the lead content. In addition, the broiler meat samples from supermarkets had lower levels of antimicrobial drugs and heavy metals residue compared to the broiler meat collected from various types of farms and broiler wet meat markets. Irrespective of the source, broiler meat was found to contain antimicrobial drugs and heavy metals residues below the MRL, except for lead, suggesting that broiler meat is safe for human consumption. Therefore, raising public awareness regarding misconceptions about broiler meat consumption among consumers would be warranted.

The poultry industry has grown so fast alongside the irrational use of antibiotics to maximize profit and make the production cost-effective during the last few decades. The rising and indiscriminate use of antibiotics might result in the deposition of residues in poultry food products and in the development of resistance to these drugs by microorganisms. Therefore, many diseases are becoming difficult to treat both in humans and animals. In addition, the use of low-dose antibiotics as growth enhancer results in antibiotic residues in food products, which have detrimental effects on human health. On the other hand, many studies have shown that antibiotics administered to poultry and livestock are poorly absorbed through the gut and usually excreted without metabolism. These excreted antibiotics eventually accumulate in the environment and enter the human food chain, resulting in the bioaccumulation of drug residues in the human body. In this regard, to find out alternatives is of paramount importance for the production of safe meat and egg. Therefore, in recent years, much research attention was disarticulated toward the exploration for alternatives to antibiotic as in-feed growth enhancers after its ban by the EU. As a result, probiotics, prebiotics, phytobiotics, spirulina, symbiotic, and their combination are being used more frequently in poultry production. Feed additives therefore gained popularity in poultry production by having many advantages but without any residues in poultry products. In addition, numerous studies demonstrating that such biological supplements compete with antimicrobial resistance have been conducted. Therefore, the purpose of this review article was to highlight the advantages of using biological products instead of antibiotics as poultry in-feed growth enhancers to enhance the production performance, reduce intestinal pathogenic bacteria, and maintain gut health, potentiating the immune response, safety, and wholesomeness of meat and eggs as evidence of consumer protection, as well as to improve the safety of poultry products for human consumption.

COVID-19 posed the healthcare professionals at enormous risk during this pandemic era while vaccination was recommended as one of the effective preventive approaches. It was visualized that almost all health workforces would be under vaccination on a priority basis as they are the frontline fighters during this pandemic. This study was designed to explore the reality regarding infection and vaccination status of COVID-19 among healthcare professionals of Bangladesh. It was a web-based cross-sectional survey and conducted among 300 healthcare professionals available in the academic platform of Bangladesh. A multivariate logistic regression model was used for the analytical exploration. Adjusted and Unadjusted Odds Ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated for the specified setting indicators. A Chi-square test was used to observe the association. Ethical issues were maintained according to the guidance of the declaration of Helsinki. Study revealed that 41% of all respondents identified as COVID-19 positive whereas a significant number (18.3%) found as non-vaccinated due to registration issues as 52.70%, misconception regarding vaccination as 29.10%, and health-related issues as 18.20%. Respondents of more than 50 years of age found more significant on having positive infection rather than the younger age groups. Predictors for the non-vaccination guided that male respondents (COR/p = 3.49/0.01), allied health professionals, and respondents from the public organizations (p = 0.01) who were ≤29 (AOR/p = 4.45/0.01) years of age significantly identified as non-vaccinated. As the older female groups were found more infected and a significant number of health care professionals found as non-vaccinated, implementation of specific strategies and policies are needed to ensure the safety precautions and vaccination among such COVID-19 frontiers.

Healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in protecting and saving the lives of general people. As health workers are more likely to be infected with COVID-19, it is inevitable to safeguard them through vaccination in advance to continue healthcare services. Hence the study aimed to explore the infection and vaccination status along with immediate health consequences among these frontiers. This was a cross-sectional, web-delivered study conducted among the 300 healthcare frontiers working at COVID-19 dedicated hospitals in eight divisions of Bangladesh. The study questionnaire encompasses infection, vaccination status with dose information, and demographical and organizational information among the respondents. A multivariate logistic regression model and Chi-square test was used for the analytical exploration. Adjusted and Unadjusted Odds Ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated for the specified setting indicators. The study revealed that 49% of all respondents tested positive whereas 98% of them were found vaccinated of which mostly (52.3%) had their 2nddoses and 68.7% faced immediate health consequences for having the vaccination. As predictor for COVID-19 infection status, young and senior adult group (30-39 years: AOR = 2.01/0.03; 95% CI: 1.08-3.76; >50 years: AOR = 4.36/0.01; 95% CI: 1.65-11.55) and respondents who received Sinopharm as their vaccine found to have more significant positive infection history. The predictors regarding experiencing immediate health effects after vaccination, surprisingly female (AOR = 3.31/0.01; 95% CI: 1.82-6.04) health professionals of the capital city (AOR = 1.91/0.03; 95% CI: 1.06-3.46) were observed to have health consequences on vaccination. As the older female group (>50 years) in the nursing profession was found more infected with COVID-19 and a significant number of health professionals especially the age group (30-39 years) in the nursing profession experienced immediate health effects of COVID-19 vaccination, implementation of specific strategies and policies are needed to ensure the safety precaution and effective vaccination among the health professionals of Bangladesh.

We examined the effects of the angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor LCZ696 on overt proteinuria and renal injury in type 2 diabetic Otsuka-Long- Evans-Tokushima-Fatty (OLETF) rats. Aged OLETF rats were also treated with either valsartan or valsartan plus hydralazine for comparison. LCZ696 caused greater attenuation of the progression of proteinuria than either valsartan alone or valsartan combined with hydralazine. Reduced glomerular injury and tubulointerstitial fibrosis were also observed in LCZ696-treated rats. Moreover, LCZ696 prevented increases in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels. These data suggest that LCZ696 elicits a reno-protective effect against type 2 diabetes with overt proteinuria. Keywords: LCZ696, Proteinuria, Diabetic kidney disease (DKD)

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of discriminate and indiscriminate use of oxytetracycline on hematological parameters, residual status in soft tissue of broiler and of thermal effect on oxytetracycline residual status. Materials and Methods: Eighteen, day-old male broiler chickens were purchased and were divided into three different groups (control group, discriminate group, and indiscriminate group). The control group received no antibiotics. The discriminate group received oxytetracycline 1 g/L drinking water for 5 consecutive days, and 10 days' withdrawal period was maintained before sacrifice. The indiscriminate group received oxytetracycline 1 g/L drinking water till the sacrificed day. Blood samples were collected before sacrificing for hematological analysis. After sacrificing liver, kidney, spleen, and muscle samples were collected for analysis of oxytetracycline residues in raw soft tissues. Since meat is used to cook by traditional method in Bangladesh before consumption that is why positive meat samples were cooked by traditional cooking method to evaluate the thermal effect on oxytetracycline residual status as well. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was done for screening of oxytetracycline residues in soft tissues. Results: Mean differences of total erythrocyte count (million/mm3), hemoglobin estimation (gm%), and packed cell volume (%) estimation were not statistically significant among the groups. TLC analysis of raw samples showed 100% positive results of all samples collected from the indiscriminate group. In contrast, samples collected from the discriminate group were negative for oxytetracycline residues. In the control group, all samples were negative for oxytetracycline residue. There was a significant (p

Objective: To analyze the presence of selective antibiotic residues (oxytetracycline, amoxicillin, and ciprofloxacin) in milk during the antibiotic treatment course, and to evaluate the thermal effect on antibiotics residual status in milk of antibiotic-treated cows. Materials and Methods: The raw fresh milk was collected from 18 lactating cows before antibiotics treatment, which were brought to the veterinary hospital and suffered from either mastitis, foot and mouth disease, fever, local wound, or non-specific diarrhea, and so on. Out of the 18 lactating cows, six were treated with oxytetracycline, six were treated with amoxicillin, and six were treated with ciprofloxacin parenterally. Milk samples were also collected at 2nd day during treatment and final collection was done after maintaining the withdrawal period. Since milk is heated before con¬sumption, it was boiled at 100°C for 20 min to evaluate the thermal effect on antibiotics residual status. Thin-layer chromatography was done for screening of antibiotics residue before and after boiling of the milk. Results: At day 0 (before antibiotic treatment), no antibiotics (oxytetracycline, ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin) residue was detected in raw milk of antibiotic treated cows. In contrast, on day 2 (during antibiotic treatment), 100% raw milk samples showed positive for antibiotics residue. After boiling, all milk samples showed positive for such specific antibiotics residue. On the other hand, no antibiotics residues were detected on day 9, which indicates the completion of the withdrawal period of the respective antibiotic. The intensities of bands for antibiotic on thin-layer chromatography plate of antibiotic residues in milk samples (oxytetracycline, amoxicillin, and ciprofloxacin) expressed that the respective antibiotic residual status was higher in the boiled milk compare to the raw milk. Conclusion: Proper maintenance of withdrawal period after antibiotic treatment would mini¬mize the risk of antibiotic residues in milk, and boiling does not change these specific antibiotics residual status in milk. Therefore, awareness regarding the proper maintenance of withdrawal period after antibiotic treatment in lactating cows is one of the best strategies that may positively reduce the risk of antimicrobial drugs residue in milk. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2019; 6(4.000): 516-520]

Objectives: Drug residues in poultry products could lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria as in any living animal and human alike. Extensive use of antibiotics in animals to promote growth rate, increase feed efficiency, and for prevention of intestinal infections has led to the development of resistant bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of biological supplementation of probiotic, phytobiotic, and their combination over antibiotic on growth performance, microbial load, and hematological parameters in Broiler. Materials and methods: Sixty-five broiler chicken were divided into five groups (12 birds in each group), namely, group A (basal diet), group B (antibiotic, Renamycin 100®), group C (phytobiotic, Galibiotic®), group D (probiotic, Bio-Top®), and group E (combination, Galibiotic®+Galibiotic®) and five were sacrificed for baseline data on day 0. Results: Average final live weight gain was highest in group D (probiotic) than other groups. The feed conversion ratio was highest in group A and lowest in the probiotic group (group C). Blood samples were collected on 14th and 28th day for hematological studies. The mean hematology values regarding the total erythrocyte count, hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate differed significantly (p < 0.05) among groups. The pH of all the treatment groups was significantly decreased compared to the control group (p < 0.05) where group C was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than all other groups. Highest total viable cell count was observed in control (group A) and total coliform count in phytobiotic (group C) was significantly lower than in other treatment groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It may conclude that biological supplements have a significant positive impact on growth performance, hematological parameters, and gut microbial load in broiler chicken of which the probiotic showing the best effects. Supplementation of probiotic in feed could be one of the best candidates as an alternative to antibiotics as growth promoter for safe broiler production. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2019; 6(3.000): 409-415]

Objective: The present study was aimed to evaluate dose-dependent effects of phytobiotic (Galibiotic) supplements in feed on growth performance, hematological parameters, intestinal pH, and gut bacterial population in broiler chick. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 ten day old broiler chicks were divided into five groups, namely, Group A as control (without galibiotic), Group B (galibiotic at 1 gm/kg feed), Group C (gal¬ibiotic at 2 gm/kg feed), Group D (galibiotic at 5 gm/kg feed), and Group E (galibiotic at 10 gm/kg feed). All the birds were reared for 42 days and samples were collected before and after sacrifice. Results: Live body weights showed no significant differences between the groups but overall feed conversion ratios (FCRs) of treatment groups were significantly low in Group E having the lowest. Blood samples collected for hematology differed significantly (p < 0.01) among the different groups. Intestinal pH was lower in treatment groups with Group E having the lowest. Cecal total viable count was highest in Group A and lowest in Group E. The cecal coliform count was low in all the treatment groups. Conclusion: Along with previously published report, it may conclude that the phytobiotic could be used as an alternative to antibiotics due to positive growth performance, lower FCR, carcass quality, and improved gut health of broiler chicks. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2019; 6(2.000): 253-259]

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) foodborne pathogens have created a great challenge to the supply and consumption of safe & healthy animal-source foods. The study was conducted to identify the common foodborne pathogens from animal-source foods & by-products with their antimicrobial drug susceptibility and resistance gene profile. The common foodborne pathogens Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Campylobacter species were identified in livestock and poultry food products. The prevalence of foodborne pathogens was found higher in poultry food & by-product compared with livestock (p < 0.05). The antimicrobial drug susceptibility results revealed decreased susceptibility to penicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, neomycin, streptomycin, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim whilst gentamicin was found comparatively more sensitive. Regardless of sources, the overall MDR pattern of E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus were found to be 88.33%, 75%, 95%, and 100%, respectively. The genotypic resistance showed a prevalence of blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCMY, tetA, tetB, sul1, aadA1, aac(3)-IV, and ereA resistance genes. The phenotype and genotype resistance patterns of isolated pathogens from livestock and poultry had harmony and good concordance, and sul1 & tetA resistance genes had a higher prevalence. Good agricultural practices along with proper biosecurity may reduce the rampant use of antimicrobial drugs. In addition, proper handling, processing, storage, and transportation of foods may decline the spread of MDR foodborne pathogens in the food chain.

Mission planning for small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS) as a platform for remote sensors goes beyond the traditional issues of selecting a sensor, flying altitude/speed, spatial resolution, and the date/time of operation. Unlike purchasing or contracting imagery collections from traditional satellite or manned airborne systems, the sUAS operator must carefully select launching, landing, and flight paths that meet both the needs of the remote sensing collection and the regulatory requirements of federal, state, and local regulations. Mission planning for aerial drones must consider temporal and geographic changes in the environment, such as local weather conditions or changing tidal height. One key aspect of aerial drone missions is the visibility of the aircraft and communication with the aircraft. In this research, a visibility model for low-altitude aerial drone operations was designed using a GIS-based framework supported by high spatial resolution LiDAR data. In the example study, the geographic positions of the visibility of an aerial drone used for water sampling at low altitudes (e.g., 2 m above ground level) were modeled at different levels of tidal height. Using geospatial data for a test-case environment at the Winyah Bay estuarine environment in South Carolina, we demonstrate the utility, challenges, and solutions for determining the visibility of a very low-altitude aerial drone used in water sampling.

Lane detection plays a vital role in making the idea of the autonomous car a reality. Traditional lane detection methods need extensive hand-crafted features and post-processing techniques, which make the models specific feature-oriented, and susceptible to instability for the variations on road scenes. In recent years, Deep Learning (DL) models, especially Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models have been proposed and utilized to perform pixel-level lane segmentation. However, most of the methods focus on achieving high accuracy while considering structured roads and good weather conditions and do not put emphasis on testing their models on defected roads, especially ones with blurry lane lines, no lane lines, and cracked pavements, which are predominant in the real world. Moreover, many of these CNN-based models have complex structures and require high-end systems to operate, which makes them quite unsuitable for being implemented in embedded devices. Considering these shortcomings, in this paper, we have introduced a novel CNN model named LLDNet based on an encoder–decoder architecture that is lightweight and has been tested in adverse weather as well as road conditions. A channel attention and spatial attention module are integrated into the designed architecture to refine the feature maps for achieving outstanding results with a lower number of parameters. We have used a hybrid dataset to train our model, which was created by combining two separate datasets, and have compared the model with a few state-of-the-art encoder–decoder architectures. Numerical results on the utilized dataset show that our model surpasses the compared methods in terms of dice coefficient, IoU, and the size of the models. Moreover, we carried out extensive experiments on the videos of different roads in Bangladesh. The visualization results exhibit that our model can detect the lanes accurately in both structured and defected roads and adverse weather conditions. Experimental results elicit that our designed method is capable of detecting lanes accurately and is ready for practical implementation.

Single-molecule techniques have shifted the paradigm of biological measurements from ensemble measurements to probing individual molecules and propelled a rapid revolution in related fields. Compared to ensemble measurements of biomolecules, single-molecule techniques provide a breadth of information with a high spatial and temporal resolution at the molecular level. Usually, optical and electrical methods are two commonly employed methods for probing single molecules, and some platforms even offer the integration of these two methods such as optofluidics. The recent spark in technological advancement and the tremendous leap in fabrication techniques, microfluidics, and integrated optofluidics are paving the way toward low cost, chip-scale, portable, and point-of-care diagnostic and single-molecule analysis tools. This review provides the fundamentals and overview of commonly employed single-molecule methods including optical methods, electrical methods, force-based methods, combinatorial integrated methods, etc. In most single-molecule experiments, the ability to manipulate and exercise precise control over individual molecules plays a vital role, which sometimes defines the capabilities and limits of the operation. This review discusses different manipulation techniques including sorting and trapping individual particles. An insight into the control of single molecules is provided that mainly discusses the recent development of electrical control over single molecules. Overall, this review is designed to provide the fundamentals and recent advancements in different single-molecule techniques and their applications, with a special focus on the detection, manipulation, and control of single molecules on chip-scale devices.

The interferon-inducible transmembrane (IFITM) proteins belong to the Dispanin/CD225 family and inhibit diverse virus infections. IFITM3 reduces membrane fusion between cells and virions through a poorly characterized mechanism. Mutation of proline-rich transmembrane protein 2 (PRRT2), a regulator of neurotransmitter release, at glycine-305 was previously linked to paroxysmal neurological disorders in humans. Here, we show that glycine-305 and the homologous site in IFITM3, glycine-95, drive protein oligomerization from within a GxxxG motif. Mutation of glycine-95 (and to a lesser extent, glycine-91) disrupted IFITM3 oligomerization and reduced its antiviral activity against Influenza A virus. An oligomerization-defective variant was used to reveal that IFITM3 promotes membrane rigidity in a glycine-95-dependent and amphipathic helix-dependent manner. Furthermore, a compound which counteracts virus inhibition by IFITM3, Amphotericin B, prevented the IFITM3-mediated rigidification of membranes. Overall, these data suggest that IFITM3 oligomers inhibit virus-cell fusion by promoting membrane rigidity.

BackgroundA high-fat diet (HFD) can induce obesity and metabolic disorders that are closely associated with cognitive impairments, and the progression of several psychiatric disorders such as anxiety. We have previously demonstrated the anxiolytic-like effect of Gamma oryzanol (GORZ) in chronic restraint stressed mice.ObjectiveWe studied the neurochemical and molecular mechanisms that underlie the preventive effect of GORZ in HFD-induced anxiety-like behaviors, monoaminergic dysfunction, and inflammation.MethodsEight-week-old Institute of Cancer (ICR) male mice weighing 33–34 g were divided into the following groups and free-fed for 8 weeks: control (14% casein, AIN 93M); HFD; HFD + GORZ (0.5% GORZ). Body weight gain was checked weekly. The anxiolytic-like effects of GORZ were examined via open-field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze (EPM) test. Brain levels of monoamines [5-hydroxy tryptamine (5-HT), dopamine (DA), and norepinephrine (NE)] and their metabolites [5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA), homovanillic acid (HVA), and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG)], proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-αα (Tnf-α) mRNA levels, and interleukin 1-β (Il-1β) mRNA levels in the cerebral cortex and amygdala were examined using high-performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD), and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively.ResultsMice fed a HFD for eight weeks showed anxiety-like behaviors in association with HFD-induced body weight gain. GORZ potentially blocked HFD-induced anxiety-like behaviors via significant improvement of the primary behavioral parameters in behavioral tests, with a minor reduction in HFD-induced body weight gain. Furthermore, GORZ treatment significantly downregulated HFD-induced upregulation of dopamine levels in the brain's amygdala. Significant reduction of the relative mRNA expression of Tnf-α and Il-1 β was also observed in the amygdala of HFD + GORZ mice, compared to HFD mice.ConclusionsOur findings strongly suggest that 0.5% GORZ exerts anxiolytic-like effects, possibly through downregulation of dopamine, and via expression of proinflammatory cytokines Tnf-α and Il-1 β in the case of chronic HFD exposure.

The widespread and indiscriminate use of antimicrobials in food animals is a key contributor to antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial residue, which have become a growing public and animal health concern in developing countries such as Bangladesh. This study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of large-animal farmers towards antimicrobial use (AMU), antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and antimicrobial residue (AR) with their correlation. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a structured and pretested questionnaire in the Mymensingh division of Bangladesh. A total of 212 large-animal farmers (dairy, beef fattening, buffalo, sheep, and goat farmers) were surveyed. Results showed that most of the farmers are male (85.8%) and belong to the 18–30 age group (37.3%). About 20.3% had no formal education, and nearly half of the participants (48.1%) received training regarding antibiotic use and resistance. Penicillin is the most common class of antibiotic used (61.8%) in the study area, followed by other antimicrobials. Only 37.7% of the farmers used antimicrobials on the recommendation of their veterinarian. Overall, 41.5%, 42.5%, and 21.7% of farmers possess adequate knowledge and a satisfactory attitude and perform desirable practices, respectively. Farmers in the 31–40 age group have adequate knowledge, attitude, and ability to implement desired practices compared to farmers in the 18–30 age group. Farmers having a graduate or post-graduate degree scored better in relation to knowledge, attitude, and practice than other farmers. Analysis revealed that farmers who received training on AMU and AMR had 10.014 times (OR = 10.014, 95% CIs: 5.252–19.094), 9.409 times (OR = 9.409, 95% CIs: 4.972–17.806), and 25.994 times (OR = 25.994, 95% CIs: 7.73–87.414) better knowledge, attitude, and performance, respectively, compared to their counterparts. A significant proportion of farmers (97.2%) dispose of leftover antibiotics inappropriately. The findings of the present study will be used to intervene in the education and training of the farmers, which will help to limit the indiscriminate and irrational use of antimicrobials, leading to reducing the chances of developing AMR.

ABSTRACT Interferon-induced transmembrane (IFITM) proteins are encoded by many vertebrate species and exhibit antiviral activities against a wide range of viruses. IFITM3, when present in virus-producing cells, reduces the fusion potential of HIV-1 virions, but the mechanism is poorly understood. To define the breadth and mechanistic basis for the antiviral activity of IFITM3, we took advantage of a murine leukemia virus (MLV)-based pseudotyping system. By carefully controlling amounts of IFITM3 and envelope protein (Env) in virus-producing cells, we found that IFITM3 potently inhibits MLV infectivity when Env levels are limiting. Loss of infectivity was associated with defective proteolytic processing of Env and lysosomal degradation of the Env precursor. Ecotropic and xenotropic variants of MLV Env, as well as HIV-1 Env and vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSV-G), are sensitive to IFITM3, whereas Ebola glycoprotein is resistant, suggesting that IFITM3 selectively inactivates certain viral glycoproteins. Furthermore, endogenous IFITM3 in human and murine cells negatively regulates MLV Env abundance. However, we found that the negative impact of IFITM3 on virion infectivity is greater than its impact on decreasing Env incorporation, suggesting that IFITM3 may impair Env function, as well as reduce the amount of Env in virions. Finally, we demonstrate that loss of virion infectivity mediated by IFITM3 is reversed by the expression of glycoGag, a murine retrovirus accessory protein previously shown to antagonize the antiviral activity of SERINC proteins. Overall, we show that IFITM3 impairs virion infectivity by regulating Env quantity and function but that enhanced Env expression and glycoGag confer viral resistance to IFITM3. IMPORTANCE The viral envelope glycoprotein, known as “Env” in Retroviridae, is found on the virion surface and facilitates virus entry into cells by mediating cell attachment and fusion. Env is a major structural component of retroviruses and is targeted by all arms of the immune response, including adaptive and innate immunity. Less is known about how cell-intrinsic immunity prevents retrovirus replication at the level of individual cells. Here, we show that cellular IFITM3 and IFITM2 inhibit the fusion potential of retroviral virions by inhibiting Env protein via a two-pronged mechanism. IFITM proteins inhibit Env abundance in cells and also impair its function when levels are low. The posttranslational block of retroviral Env function by IFITM proteins is likely to impede both exogenous and endogenous retrovirus replication. In support of a relevant role for IFITM3 in retrovirus control, the retroviral accessory protein glycoGag counteracts IFITM3 function to promote virus infectivity.

In order to elucidate involvement of cyclic AMP and intracellular Ca2+,[Ca2+]i, in the modulation of aqueous humour formation (AHF), we studied the effects of terbutaline, forskolin and 8-Br-cAMP in the isolated bovine eye. We also studied the interaction of cAMP on calcium signaling in cultured ciliary epithelial (CE) cells. Drug effects on AHF were measured by fluorescein dilution. Drug effects on [Ca2+]i were studied by the fura-2 fluorescence ratio technique. Terbutaline (100 nmol-100 M), forskolin (30 nM-100 M) or 8-Br-cAMP (100 nM- 10 μM), administered in the arterial perfusate produced significant reductions in AHF. The AH reducing effect of terbutaline was blocked by a selective inhibitor of protein kinase A (KT-5720). ATP (100 M) caused a rapid, transient (peak) increase in [Ca2+]i followed by a sustained plateau phase lasting more than 5 minutes. Preincubation of the cells (6 min) with terbutaline, forskolin or 8-Br-cAMP significantly reduced the peak calcium response to ATP. The sustained plateau phase of the response, on the other hand, was augmented by each of the agents. KT-5720 partially reversed the inhibitory effect of terbutaline on the peak and totally inhibited its effect on the plateau phase. These data indicate: (a) that AHF in the bovine eye can be manipulated through cyclic AMP, operating via protein kinase A, (b) that protein kinase A can affect [Ca2+]i homeostasis, (c) that calcium release from the intracellular store, not the entry, affects AHF, and (d) that interaction of [Ca2+]i with cAMP plays a role in modulating AH secretion.

Nucleotide (DNA) sequence analysis provides important clues regarding the characteristics and taxonomic position of an organism. With the intention that, DNA sequence analysis is very crucial to learn about hierarchical classification of that particular organism. This dataset (patent US 7547531) is chosen to simplify all the complex raw data buried in undisclosed DNA sequences which help to open doors for new collaborations. In this data, a total of 48 unidentified DNA sequences from patent US 7547531 were selected and their complete sequences were retrieved from NCBI BioSample database. Quick response (QR) code of those DNA sequences was constructed by DNA BarID tool. QR code is useful for the identification and comparison of isolates with other organisms. AT/GC content of the DNA sequences was determined using ENDMEMO GC Content Calculator, which indicates their stability at different temperature. The highest GC content was observed in GP445188 (62.5%) which was followed by GP445198 (61.8%) and GP445189 (59.44%), while lowest was in GP445178 (24.39%). In addition, New England BioLabs (NEB) database was used to identify cleavage code indicating the 5, 3 and blunt end and enzyme code indicating the methylation site of the DNA sequences was also shown. These data will be helpful for the construction of the organisms’ hierarchical classification, determination of their phylogenetic and taxonomic position and revelation of their molecular characteristics.

Aldosterone, a steroid hormone, has traditionally been viewed as a key regulator of fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, as well as blood pressure, through the activation of mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). However, a number of studies performed in the last decade have revealed an important role of aldosterone/MR in the pathogenesis of renal injury. Aldosterone/MR-induced renal tissue injury is associated with increased renal inflammation and oxidative stress, fibrosis, mesangial cell proliferation, and podocyte injury, probably through genomic and non-genomic pathways. However, our preliminary data have indicated that acute administration of aldosterone or a selective MR antagonist, eplerenone, does not change blood pressure, heart rate, or renal blood flow. These data suggest that aldosterone/MR induces renal injury through mechanisms that are independent of acute changes in systemic and renal hemodynamics. In this review, we will briefly summarize the roles of aldosterone/MR in the pathogenesis of renal injury, focusing on the underlying mechanisms that are independent of systemic and renal hemodynamic changes. Keywords:: aldosterone, mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), renal injury, eplerenone, renal blood flow

There is increasing evidence indicating the roles of aldosterone and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in the pathogenesis of renal injury. In rats, chronic treatment with aldosterone and salt results in severe proteinuria and renal tissue injury, characterized by glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Aldosterone-induced renal tissue injury is associated with increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) or Rho-kinase. Treatment with a selective MR antagonist, eplerenone, prevents aldosterone-induced increases in ROS levels and MAPK activity and ameliorates renal injury. In vitro studies have revealed that MR is highly expressed in glomerular mesangial cells (RMCs), podocytes, and renal interstitial fibroblasts. In these renal cells, aldosterone induces cellular injury through NADPH oxidase–dependent ROS production and activation of MAPKs or Rhokinase. Such aldosterone-induced renal cellular injury is markedly attenuated by treatment with eplerenone. These data suggest that aldosterone induces renal injury via activation of MR through mechanisms that cannot be simply explained by changes in blood pressure. In this review, we summarized recent findings on the roles of aldosterone and MR in the pathogenesis of renal injury with particular emphasis on potential underlying mechanisms. Keywords:: aldosterone, mineralocorticoid receptor, reactive oxygen species (ROS), extracellular signal–regulated kinases (ERK) 1/2, eplerenone, kidney