40 results on '"Thura Soe A"'
Search Results
2. The status of primates and primatology in Myanmar
- Author
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Carolyn Thompson, Ngwe Lwin, Pyae Phyo Aung, Tin Htun Aung, Thura Soe Min Htike, Aye Mi San, Naw May Lay Thant, Christian Roos, Peng-Fei Fan, Koen van Rompay, Mark Grindley, Phyu Pyar Tin, No No Wai, Htoo Htoo Aung Lwin, Kirsten V. Gilardi, Frank Momberg, Susan M. Cheyne, and Tierra Smiley Evans
- Subjects
Burma ,Gibbon ,Langur ,Loris ,Lutung ,Macaque ,Ecology ,QH540-549.5 - Abstract
Myanmar is one of the world’s most biologically rich countries and has among the largest contiguous intact forest landscapes in southeast Asia. Yet many of its ecosystems are highly threatened and there is an urgent need for greater wildlife conservation action, particularly for its 20 primate species, over half of which are either Endangered or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Of these 20 species, three survive in small, isolated populations, while for the remaining 17 there is insufficient population and distribution information to accurately target conservation management and monitoring. To begin to address this challenge, we conducted semi-structured interviews with senior academics and professionals working in primate conservation in Myanmar to assess current knowledge on the conservation status of each of the primate species found there, as well as conservation efforts underway. We also conducted a systematic literature review to generate data on publication metrics for Myanmar primatology. The principal finding is that the populations of nearly all of Myanmar’s 20 primate species are declining, and there are gaps in knowledge on species population dynamics which are hindering conservation action. We present an overview of primatology in Myanmar and address the challenges and recommendations for the future of primate conservation in Myanmar.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
3. The status of primates and primatology in Myanmar
- Author
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Thompson, Carolyn, Lwin, Ngwe, Aung, Pyae Phyo, Aung, Tin Htun, Htike, Thura Soe Min, San, Aye Mi, Thant, Naw May Lay, Roos, Christian, Fan, Peng-Fei, van Rompay, Koen, Grindley, Mark, Tin, Phyu Pyar, Wai, No No, Lwin, Htoo Htoo Aung, Gilardi, Kirsten V., Momberg, Frank, Cheyne, Susan M., and Evans, Tierra Smiley
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
4. A Central Pattern Generator-Based Control Strategy of a Nature-Inspired Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.
- Author
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Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful, Ying Hong Pheh, Luke Thura Soe Win, Shane Kyi Hla Win, Gim Song Soh, and Shaohui Foong
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Confirmation of Skywalker Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock tianxing) in Myanmar extends known geographic range of an endangered primate
- Author
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Pyae Phyo Aung, Ngwe Lwin, Tin Htun Aung, Thura Soe Min Htike, Thompson, Carolyn, Roos, Christian, Sa Myo Zaw, L. Zawng Lum, Win Naing Oo, Zung Sau, Turvey, Samuel T., Wai Zinn Thein, Min Thein Maw, Ye Tun Win, Zaw Min Oo, van Rompay, Koen K.A., Gilardi, Kirsten V., Tremeu-Bravard, Alex, Momberg, Franik, Fan Peng-Fei, Cheyne, Susan M., Smiley Evans, Tierra, Pyae Phyo Aung, Ngwe Lwin, Tin Htun Aung, Thura Soe Min Htike, Thompson, Carolyn, Roos, Christian, Sa Myo Zaw, L. Zawng Lum, Win Naing Oo, Zung Sau, Turvey, Samuel T., Wai Zinn Thein, Min Thein Maw, Ye Tun Win, Zaw Min Oo, van Rompay, Koen K.A., Gilardi, Kirsten V., Tremeu-Bravard, Alex, Momberg, Franik, Fan Peng-Fei, Cheyne, Susan M., and Smiley Evans, Tierra
- Abstract
Characterizing genetically distinct populations of primates is important for protecting biodiversity and effectively allocating conservation resources. Skywalker gibbons (Hoolock tianxing) were first described in 2017, with the only confirmed population consisting of 150 individuals in Mt. Gaoligong, Yunnan Province, China. Based on river geography, the distribution of the skywalker gibbon has been hypothesized to extend into Myanmar between the N’Mai Kha and Ayeyarwaddy Rivers to the west, and the Salween River (named the Thanlwin River in Myanmar and Nujiang River in China) to the east. We conducted acoustic point-count sampling surveys, collected noninvasive samples for molecular mitochondrial cytochrome b gene identification, and took photographs for morphological identification at six sites in Kachin State and three sites in Shan State to determine the presence of skywalker gibbons in predicted suitable forest areas in Myanmar. We also conducted 50 semistructured interviews with members of communities surrounding gibbon range forests to understand potential threats. In Kachin State, we audio-recorded 23 gibbon groups with group densities ranging between 0.57 and 3.6 group/km2. In Shan State, we audio-recorded 21 gibbon groups with group densities ranging between 0.134 and 1.0 group/km2. Based on genetic data obtained from skin and saliva samples, the gibbons were identified as skywalker gibbons (99.54–100% identity). Although these findings increase the species’ known population size and confirmed distribution, skywalker gibbons in Myanmar are threatened by local habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. Most of the skywalker gibbon population in Myanmar exists outside protected areas. Therefore, the IUCN Red List status of the skywalker gibbon should remain as Endangered.
- Published
- 2024
6. A Reinforcement Learning Approach for Control of a Nature-Inspired Aerial Vehicle.
- Author
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Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful, Luke Thura Soe Win, Shane Kyi Hla Win, Gim Song Soh, and Shaohui Foong
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- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
7. Towards a Stable Three-Mode Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR).
- Author
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Jun En Low, Luke Thura Soe Win, Jiong Le Lee, Gim Song Soh, and Shaohui Foong
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- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
8. Optimized Transition Path of a Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR).
- Author
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Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful, Luke Thura Soe Win, Jun En Low, Shane Kyi Hla Win, Gim Song Soh, and Shaohui Foong
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
9. Direction Controlled Descent of Samara Autorotating Wings (SAW) with N-Wings * Research supported by the SUTD-MIT International Design Centre (IDC) and by the Temasek Laboratories Defence Innovation Research Programme (DIRP) IGDSP15020141.
- Author
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Shane Kyi Hla Win, Jake Tze Huan Goh, Jun En Low, Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful, Luke Thura Soe Win, Gim Song Soh, and Shaohui Foong
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- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
10. Correction to: Distinguishing between determinate and indeterminate growth in a long-lived mammal
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Hannah S. Mumby, Simon N. Chapman, Jennie A. H. Crawley, Khyne U. Mar, Win Htut, Aung Thura Soe, Htoo Htoo Aung, and Virpi Lummaa
- Subjects
Ecology ,QH540-549.5 ,Evolution ,QH359-425 - Published
- 2021
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11. A standardised faecal collection protocol for intestinal helminth egg counts in Asian elephants, Elephas maximus
- Author
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Carly L. Lynsdale, Diogo J. Franco dos Santos, Adam D. Hayward, Khyne U. Mar, Win Htut, Htoo Htoo Aung, Aung Thura Soe, and Virpi Lummaa
- Subjects
Faecal egg count ,Parasite ,Sampling method ,Zoology ,QL1-991 - Abstract
The quantitative assessment of parasite infection is necessary to measure, manage and reduce infection risk in both wild and captive animal populations. Traditional faecal flotation methods which aim to quantify parasite burden, such as the McMaster egg counting technique, are widely used in veterinary medicine, agricultural management and wildlife parasitology. Although many modifications to the McMaster method exist, few account for systematic variation in parasite egg output which may lead to inaccurate estimations of infection intensity through faecal egg counts (FEC). To adapt the McMaster method for use in sampling Asian elephants (Elephas maximus), we tested a number of possible sources of error regarding faecal sampling, focussing on helminth eggs and using a population of over 120 semi-captive elephants distributed across northern Myanmar. These included time of day of defecation, effects of storage in 10% formalin and 10% formol saline and variation in egg distribution between and within faecal boluses. We found no significant difference in the distribution of helminth eggs within faecal matter or for different defecation times, however, storage in formol saline and formalin significantly decreased egg recovery. This is the first study to analyse several collection and storage aspects of a widely-used traditional parasitology method for helminth parasites of E. maximus using known host individuals. We suggest that for the modified McMaster technique, a minimum of one fresh sample per elephant collected from any freshly produced bolus in the total faecal matter and at any point within a 7.5 h time period (7.30am–2.55 pm) will consistently represent parasite load. This study defines a protocol which may be used to test pre-analytic factors and effectively determine infection load in species which produce large quantities of vegetative faeces, such as non-ruminant megaherbivores.
- Published
- 2015
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- View/download PDF
12. Milk Composition of Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus) in a Natural Environment in Myanmar during Late Lactation
- Author
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Ellen S. Dierenfeld, Yadana A. M. Han, Khyne U. Mar, Aung Aung, Aung Thura Soe, Virpi Lummaa, and Mirkka Lahdenperä
- Subjects
elephant ,lactation ,milk composition ,nutrition ,pachyderm ,Veterinary medicine ,SF600-1100 ,Zoology ,QL1-991 - Abstract
The nutritional content of milk from free-living Asian elephants has not previously been reported, despite being vital for better management of captive populations. This study analyzed both milk composition and consumed plant species of Asian elephants managed in their natural environment in Myanmar. Longitudinal samples (n = 36) were obtained during both the wet and the dry season from six mature females in mid to late lactation in 2016 and 2017. Milk composition averaged 82.44% water, with 17.56% total solids containing 5.23% protein, 15.10% fat, 0.87% ash, and 0.18 µg/mL vitamin E. Solids and protein increased with lactation month. Total protein in milk was higher during the wet vs. the dry season. Observed factors linked with maternal (age, parity, size and origin) and calf traits (sex) had significant associations with milk nutrient levels. Primary forages consumed contained moderate protein and fiber. Higher dietary protein during the wet season (11–25%) compared to the dry season (6–19%) may be linked with increased milk protein observed. Our results call for further field studies of milk and diet composition, over entire seasons/lactation periods, and across maternal and calf traits, to improve feeding management, with an overall goal of maximized health and survival.
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
13. A Case of Rupture Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed 10 Days After Hospital Stay In A 22-Year-Old Girl Presented With Symptoms of Anemia Without Abdominal Pain and Amenorrhea: Lessons Learned
- Author
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Khin Phyu Pyar, Sai Aik Hla, Soe Min Aung, Soe Win Hlaing, Aung Aung, Kyaw Zay Ya, Kyaw Thet Aye, Zar Ni Htet Aung, Nyan Lin Maung, Thurein Wynn, Aung Phyoe Kyaw, Han Lin Aung, Myo Thant Kyaw, Zay Phyo Aung, Thein Tun Myint, Kyaw Thet Maung, Saw Thar War, Aung Thu, Sitt Min, Tin Tun Oo, Aung Thura Soe, and Min Hein Myint Chein
- Subjects
refractory anemia, occult blood loss, ascites, rupture ectopic pregnancy, salpingectomy, clerking, delay diagnosis - Abstract
A 22-year-old unmarried Myanmar girl presented with symptoms of anemia: fatigue, exertional dyspnea and fainting attack. There was no abdominal pain or amenorrhea. The hemodynamic status was stable except sinus tachycardia. Anemia was refractory to blood transfusion; thus, the differential diagnosis were autoimmune hemolytic anemia and occult blood loss. Blood film, bone marrow examination, Comb tests, Anti-nuclear antibody profile and PNH screen tests excluded autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Presence of fibrous strands in free fluids of abdominal cavity with normal uterus and ovary mislead the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Blood tap in ascitic fluid aspiration made all the answer- rupture ectopic pregnancy. The symptoms resolved after right salpingectomy and blood transfusion. The clerking on sexual exposure to Myanmar single is not acceptable in our culture; it is regarded as “social insult”. Atypical presentation and not asking sexual history caused delay in diagnosis; diagnosed 10 days after hospital stay. She recovered uneventfully.
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
14. Abundance and habitat associations of the globally endangered Giant NuthatchSitta magnain Southern Shan State, Myanmar
- Author
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George A. Gale, Thura Soe Min Htike, Tommaso Savini, Dusit Ngoprasert, Naruemon Tantipisanuh, and Philip D. Round
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0106 biological sciences ,010504 meteorology & atmospheric sciences ,Ecology ,biology ,Endangered species ,biology.organism_classification ,010603 evolutionary biology ,01 natural sciences ,Geography ,Habitat ,Abundance (ecology) ,Giant nuthatch ,Animal Science and Zoology ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,Nature and Landscape Conservation - Abstract
SummaryThe Giant NuthatchSitta magnais a globally endangered species presumed to be declining, for which basic parameters of population and habitat associations remain largely unquantified. We focused on Myanmar, which potentially constitutes ~30% of the Giant Nuthatch global range and yet lacks recently published records. Our objectives were to survey key potential Giant Nuthatch localities in, or near, historical locations in Southern Shan State, assess its population status, and quantify habitat associations. Preliminary locality surveys focused on four potential forest patches, assessed by walking approximately 40 km of trails. The species was found in only one of the four localities (Mt. Ashae Myin Anauk Myin [AMAM]), an 18 km2forest patch in Pindaya and Lawksawk Townships. Here, point counts and vegetation surveys were conducted at 46 locations using an adaptive cluster sampling design. N-mixture models were applied to estimate abundance and identify habitat variables correlated with abundance and detection probability. We also conducted a brief quantitative assessment of tree use and foraging behaviour during one breeding season. Our population estimate for AMAM was 56 individuals (95% CI 25–128) based on a sampled area of 3.25 km2. Abundance was positively associated with larger diameter trees, a higher proportion of pine and oak combined based on their total basal area, and negatively correlated with elevation. Foraging data suggested that Giant Nuthatch preferred to feed on trunks and large branches of larger diameter pines and Fagaceae trees. Based on the estimated population size, AMAM is probably a globally significant locality for Giant Nuthatch and the only confirmed locality in Myanmar since 1992 but is threatened by agricultural expansion. More detailed understanding of the habitat requirements of this endangered species and an assessment of its distribution at the landscape-level, especially in Shan State, would increase the precision of global population estimates.
- Published
- 2021
15. Is bigger better? The relationship between size and reproduction in female Asian elephants
- Author
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Crawley, J. A. H., Mumby, H. S., Chapman, S. N., Lahdenperä, M., Mar, K. U., Htut, W., Thura Soe, A., Aung, H. H., and Lummaa, V.
- Published
- 2017
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
16. How Big Is It Really? Assessing the Efficacy of Indirect Estimates of Body Size in Asian Elephants.
- Author
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Simon N Chapman, Hannah S Mumby, Jennie A H Crawley, Khyne U Mar, Win Htut, Aung Thura Soe, Htoo Htoo Aung, and Virpi Lummaa
- Subjects
Medicine ,Science - Abstract
Information on an organism's body size is pivotal in understanding its life history and fitness, as well as helping inform conservation measures. However, for many species, particularly large-bodied wild animals, taking accurate body size measurements can be a challenge. Various means to estimate body size have been employed, from more direct methods such as using photogrammetry to obtain height or length measurements, to indirect prediction of weight using other body morphometrics or even the size of dung boli. It is often unclear how accurate these measures are because they cannot be compared to objective measures. Here, we investigate how well existing estimation equations predict the actual body weight of Asian elephants Elephas maximus, using body measurements (height, chest girth, length, foot circumference and neck circumference) taken directly from a large population of semi-captive animals in Myanmar (n = 404). We then define new and better fitting formulas to predict body weight in Myanmar elephants from these readily available measures. We also investigate whether the important parameters height and chest girth can be estimated from photographs (n = 151). Our results show considerable variation in the ability of existing estimation equations to predict weight, and that the equations proposed in this paper predict weight better in almost all circumstances. We also find that measurements from standardised photographs reflect body height and chest girth after applying minor adjustments. Our results have implications for size estimation of large wild animals in the field, as well as for management in captive settings.
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
17. Distinguishing between determinate and indeterminate growth in a long-lived mammal
- Author
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Mumby, Hannah S., Chapman, Simon N., Crawley, Jennie A. H., Mar, Khyne U., Htut, Win, Thura Soe, Aung, Aung, Htoo Htoo, and Lummaa, Virpi
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
18. A Central Pattern Generator-Based Control Strategy of a Nature-Inspired Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
- Author
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Shane Kyi Hla Win, Gim Song Soh, Shaohui Foong, Ying Hong Pheh, Luke Thura Soe Win, and Danial Sufiyan
- Subjects
0301 basic medicine ,03 medical and health sciences ,030104 developmental biology ,Computer science ,Control theory ,Lift (data mining) ,Plane (geometry) ,030106 microbiology ,Path (graph theory) ,Trajectory ,Central pattern generator ,Actuator ,Tracking (particle physics) - Abstract
This work introduces a Central Pattern Generator (CPG)-based control formulation for a dual-winged nature-inspired Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Unlike majority of the current popular configurations of UAVs such as multirotors and fixed-wing aircraft, this particular nature-inspired UAV generates lift by spinning its entire body about a central axis. This inherent oscillatory nature makes this particular type of UAV suitable for the implementation of a CPG-based controller, which also possess oscillatory characteristics. The CPG handles the low-level actuator commands given a simple higher-level input. Policy Gradients with Parameter-based Exploration (PGPE) was used to optimize the CPG parameters to obtain the desired UAV motion from the CPG inputs. A Tip Path Plane (TPP) angle controller was added on top of the CPG to form a TPP-CPG controller, in which closed-loop position control was implemented above this. Hovering and trajectory tracking tests were successfully conducted and the performance of the control strategy was verified.
- Published
- 2020
19. Abundance and habitat associations of the globally endangered Giant NuthatchSitta magnain Southern Shan State, Myanmar
- Author
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HTIKE, THURA SOE MIN, primary, ROUND, PHILIP D., additional, SAVINI, TOMMASO, additional, TANTIPISANUH, NARUEMON, additional, NGOPRASERT, DUSIT, additional, and GALE, GEORGE A., additional
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
20. A Central Pattern Generator-Based Control Strategy of a Nature-Inspired Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
- Author
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Sufiyan, Danial, primary, Pheh, Ying Hong, additional, Win, Luke Thura Soe, additional, Win, Shane Kyi Hla, additional, Soh, Gim Song, additional, and Foong, Shaohui, additional
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
21. A Reinforcement Learning Approach for Control of a Nature-Inspired Aerial Vehicle
- Author
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Shane Kyi Hla Win, Shaohui Foong, Gim Song Soh, Luke Thura Soe Win, and Danial Sufiyan
- Subjects
020301 aerospace & aeronautics ,0303 health sciences ,Artificial neural network ,030306 microbiology ,Computer science ,Oscillation ,Lift (data mining) ,Underactuation ,PID controller ,Control engineering ,02 engineering and technology ,03 medical and health sciences ,0203 mechanical engineering ,Control theory ,Reinforcement learning ,Nature inspired - Abstract
In this work, reinforcement learning is used to develop a position controller for an underactuated natureinspired Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). This particular configuration of UAVs achieves lift by spinning its entire body contrary to standard multi-rotors or fixed-wing aircraft. Deep Deterministic Policy Gradients (DDPG) with Ape-X Distributed Prioritized Experience Replay was used to train neural network function approximators that were implemented as the final control policy. The reinforcement learning agent was trained in simulations and directly ported over to real-life hardware. Position control tests were performed on the learned control policy and compared to a baseline PID controller. The learned controller was found to exhibit better control over the inherent oscillations that arise from the non-linear dynamics of the platform.
- Published
- 2019
22. Abundance and habitat associations of the globally endangered Giant Nuthatch Sitta magna in Southern Shan State, Myanmar.
- Author
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HTIKE, THURA SOE MIN, ROUND, PHILIP D., SAVINI, TOMMASO, TANTIPISANUH, NARUEMON, NGOPRASERT, DUSIT, and GALE, GEORGE A.
- Abstract
Summary: The Giant Nuthatch Sitta magna is a globally endangered species presumed to be declining, for which basic parameters of population and habitat associations remain largely unquantified. We focused on Myanmar, which potentially constitutes ~30% of the Giant Nuthatch global range and yet lacks recently published records. Our objectives were to survey key potential Giant Nuthatch localities in, or near, historical locations in Southern Shan State, assess its population status, and quantify habitat associations. Preliminary locality surveys focused on four potential forest patches, assessed by walking approximately 40 km of trails. The species was found in only one of the four localities (Mt. Ashae Myin Anauk Myin [AMAM]), an 18 km
2 forest patch in Pindaya and Lawksawk Townships. Here, point counts and vegetation surveys were conducted at 46 locations using an adaptive cluster sampling design. N-mixture models were applied to estimate abundance and identify habitat variables correlated with abundance and detection probability. We also conducted a brief quantitative assessment of tree use and foraging behaviour during one breeding season. Our population estimate for AMAM was 56 individuals (95% CI 25–128) based on a sampled area of 3.25 km2 . Abundance was positively associated with larger diameter trees, a higher proportion of pine and oak combined based on their total basal area, and negatively correlated with elevation. Foraging data suggested that Giant Nuthatch preferred to feed on trunks and large branches of larger diameter pines and Fagaceae trees. Based on the estimated population size, AMAM is probably a globally significant locality for Giant Nuthatch and the only confirmed locality in Myanmar since 1992 but is threatened by agricultural expansion. More detailed understanding of the habitat requirements of this endangered species and an assessment of its distribution at the landscape-level, especially in Shan State, would increase the precision of global population estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
23. Towards a Stable Three-Mode Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR)
- Author
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Gim Song Soh, Jun En Low, Jiong Le Lee, Luke Thura Soe Win, and Shaohui Foong
- Subjects
020301 aerospace & aeronautics ,0209 industrial biotechnology ,Wing ,Computer science ,Mode (statistics) ,02 engineering and technology ,Aerodynamics ,Servomechanism ,Servomotor ,Dual (category theory) ,law.invention ,020901 industrial engineering & automation ,0203 mechanical engineering ,Control theory ,law ,Torque ,Servo - Abstract
First presented in 2017, the Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR) is a structurally efficient hybrid Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) design that uses a dual servo, dual motor configuration to hover as a nature-inspired monocopter and cruise as a delta shaped fixed-wing. Such a design has potential applications in disaster relief, agriculture and surveillance; scenarios where it is desirable for the UAV to be able to both travel long distances fast and hover for long periods of time. To improve on the 2017 design, we propose the replacement of the existing dual servo system with a high torque, high precision central servo system and a controllable flap on each wing. Through simulation and experimental data, we argue that these would improve the system's flight characteristics while also giving it the ability to fly in a third mode, as a dual motor, dual flap tailsitter UAV.
- Published
- 2018
24. Optimized Transition Path of a Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR)
- Author
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Gim Song Soh, Shaohui Foong, Luke Thura Soe Win, Danial Sufiyan bin Shaiful, Jun En Low, and Shane Kyi Hla Win
- Subjects
020301 aerospace & aeronautics ,0209 industrial biotechnology ,Linear programming ,Computer science ,Rotor (electric) ,business.industry ,02 engineering and technology ,Trajectory optimization ,Aerodynamics ,Propulsion ,law.invention ,020901 industrial engineering & automation ,0203 mechanical engineering ,Flight envelope ,law ,Path (graph theory) ,Aerospace engineering ,Quaternion ,business - Abstract
Hybrid aerial vehicles which combine two or more flight configurations have gained popularity due to their increased flight envelope and versatility. With the inclusion of two or more flight modes, the transition phases between these modes are equally as crucial. While many have worked on the transition phases of more popular hybrid aerial vehicle configurations, this paper builds upon a novel aerial platform that combines the maneuverability and hover capability of a rotor-wing with the speed and endurance of a fixed-wing aircraft, previously established as the Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR). THOR uses a structurally efficient combination of a single-axis rotor (monocopter) type with a tailless fixed wing configuration, utilizing all flight surfaces in both modes. The hover-to-cruise transition of THOR is explored in the form of a trajectory optimization problem. The formulation of the cost function, vehicle model, and constraints are discussed in this paper. The open-loop control inputs that minimize the objective function were determined, simulated and flight tested experimentally.
- Published
- 2018
25. A Reinforcement Learning Approach for Control of a Nature-Inspired Aerial Vehicle
- Author
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Sufiyan, Danial, primary, Win, Luke Thura Soe, additional, Win, Shane Kyi Hla, additional, Soh, Gim Song, additional, and Foong, Shaohui, additional
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
26. A standardised faecal collection protocol for intestinal helminth egg counts in Asian elephants, Elephas maximus
- Author
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Htoo Htoo Aung, Diogo J. Franco dos Santos, Aung Thura Soe, Virpi Lummaa, Khyne U. Mar, Win Htut, Adam D. Hayward, and Carly L. Lynsdale
- Subjects
Veterinary medicine ,education.field_of_study ,Population ,Biology ,biology.organism_classification ,Parasite load ,Article ,Parasite ,Infectious Diseases ,Elephas ,Parasitology ,Helminth egg ,lcsh:Zoology ,Sampling method ,Helminths ,Parasite hosting ,Animal Science and Zoology ,lcsh:QL1-991 ,education ,Feces ,Faecal egg count - Abstract
The quantitative assessment of parasite infection is necessary to measure, manage and reduce infection risk in both wild and captive animal populations. Traditional faecal flotation methods which aim to quantify parasite burden, such as the McMaster egg counting technique, are widely used in veterinary medicine, agricultural management and wildlife parasitology. Although many modifications to the McMaster method exist, few account for systematic variation in parasite egg output which may lead to inaccurate estimations of infection intensity through faecal egg counts (FEC). To adapt the McMaster method for use in sampling Asian elephants (Elephas maximus), we tested a number of possible sources of error regarding faecal sampling, focussing on helminth eggs and using a population of over 120 semi-captive elephants distributed across northern Myanmar. These included time of day of defecation, effects of storage in 10% formalin and 10% formol saline and variation in egg distribution between and within faecal boluses. We found no significant difference in the distribution of helminth eggs within faecal matter or for different defecation times, however, storage in formol saline and formalin significantly decreased egg recovery. This is the first study to analyse several collection and storage aspects of a widely-used traditional parasitology method for helminth parasites of E. maximus using known host individuals. We suggest that for the modified McMaster technique, a minimum of one fresh sample per elephant collected from any freshly produced bolus in the total faecal matter and at any point within a 7.5 h time period (7.30am–2.55 pm) will consistently represent parasite load. This study defines a protocol which may be used to test pre-analytic factors and effectively determine infection load in species which produce large quantities of vegetative faeces, such as non-ruminant megaherbivores., Graphical abstract, Highlights • We tested effects of sampling method on FECs of helminth burdens in Elephas maximus. • Storage in fixative solution significantly reduced FECs. • Sample origin and time of sample collection had no effect on FECs. • We outline a standardised sampling protocol for E. maximus. • We encourage testing potential pre-analytical sources of error in other host taxa.
- Published
- 2015
27. Design and dynamic analysis of a Transformable Hovering Rotorcraft (THOR)
- Author
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Danial Sufiyan bin Shaiful, Jun En Low, Luke Thura Soe Win, Gim Song Soh, Shaohui Foong, and Chee How Tan
- Subjects
0301 basic medicine ,Engineering ,Rotor (electric) ,business.industry ,030106 microbiology ,Wing configuration ,Aerodynamics ,Degrees of freedom (mechanics) ,Propulsion ,law.invention ,Controllability ,03 medical and health sciences ,law ,Range (aeronautics) ,Aerospace engineering ,business ,Servo - Abstract
This paper describes the Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR), a prototype Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) that explores a novel approach in combining the range and speed of a horizontal flying platform with the hovering and maneuverability of a rotor-wing. This is achieved by integrating a tailless flying wing configuration with a single-axis rotor, or monocopter. By maintaining full utilization of all aerodynamic surfaces and propulsion sources in both flight modes, this method represents the most structurally efficient approach to achieving a cruising mode and a hovering mode on the same frame. Using a dual servo and motor configuration, we propose an under-actuated system that is able to achieve controllability in 4 degrees of freedom while in its horizontal cruising mode and in 5 degrees of freedom while in its hovering mode. In both indoor and outdoor experiments, the UAV is able to transition between either flight modes seamlessly and repeatedly without the need for any additional mechanisms and actuators.
- Published
- 2017
28. Towards a Stable Three-Mode Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR)
- Author
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Low, Jun En, primary, Win, Luke Thura Soe, additional, Lee, Jiong Le, additional, Soh, Gim Song, additional, and Foong, Shaohui, additional
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
29. Optimized Transition Path of a Transformable HOvering Rotorcraft (THOR)
- Author
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Shaiful, Danial Sufiyan Bin, primary, Win, Luke Thura Soe, additional, Low, Jun En, additional, Win, Shane Kyi Hla, additional, Soh, Gim Song, additional, and Foong, Shaohui, additional
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
30. Is bigger better? The relationship between size and reproduction in female Asian elephants
- Author
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Htoo Htoo Aung, Jennie A. H. Crawley, Khyne U. Mar, Virpi Lummaa, Mirkka Lahdenperä, A. Thura Soe, Win Htut, Hannah S. Mumby, Simon N. Chapman, Mumby, HS [0000-0002-1774-5688], Chapman, SN [0000-0003-2342-3383], and Apollo - University of Cambridge Repository
- Subjects
0106 biological sciences ,0301 basic medicine ,life history ,Population level ,long-lived ,media_common.quotation_subject ,growth ,Population ,working elephants ,Elephants ,Large population ,Biology ,010603 evolutionary biology ,01 natural sciences ,Elephas maximus ,Birth rate ,03 medical and health sciences ,Animals ,Body Size ,Life history ,Young female ,education ,ta413 ,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics ,Survival analysis ,media_common ,education.field_of_study ,Ecology ,ta1184 ,Reproduction ,Body Weight ,Survival Analysis ,030104 developmental biology ,trade-offs ,ta1181 ,Female ,FOS: Medical biotechnology ,Demography - Abstract
The limited availability of resources is predicted to impose trade-offs between growth, reproduction and self-maintenance in animals. However, whilst some studies have shown that early reproduction suppresses growth, reproduction positively correlates with size in others. We use detailed records from a large population of semi-captive elephants in Myanmar to assess the relationships between size (height and weight), reproduction and survival in female Asian elephants, a species characterised by slow, costly life history. Although female height gain during the growth period overlapped little with reproductive onset in the population, there was large variation in age at first reproduction and only 81% of final weight had been reached by peak age of reproduction at the population level (19yrs). Those females beginning reproduction early tended to be taller and lighter later in life, though these trends were not significant. We found that taller females were more likely to have reproduced by a given age, but such effects diminished with age, suggesting there may be a size threshold to reproduction which is especially important in young females. Because size was not linked with female survival during reproductive ages, the diminishing effect of height on reproduction with age is unlikely to be due to biased survival of larger females. We conclude that although reproduction may not always impose significant costs on growth, height may be a limiting factor to reproduction in young female Asian elephants, which could have important implications considering birth rates are low and peak reproduction is young – 19 years in this population. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
- Published
- 2016
31. Design and dynamic analysis of a Transformable Hovering Rotorcraft (THOR)
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Low, Jun En, primary, Win, Luke Thura Soe, additional, Shaiful, Danial Sufiyan Bin, additional, Tan, Chee How, additional, Soh, Gim Song, additional, and Foong, Shaohui, additional
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- 2017
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. Distinguishing between determinate and indeterminate growth in a long-lived mammal
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Aung Thura Soe, Htoo Htoo Aung, Jennie A. H. Crawley, Virpi Lummaa, Simon N. Chapman, Win Htut, Hannah S. Mumby, and Khyne U. Mar
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Life-history evolution ,Trade-offs ,Male ,Conservation of Natural Resources ,media_common.quotation_subject ,Elephants ,Population ,Zoology ,Biology ,Elephas maximus ,Dimorphism ,Elephas ,Asian elephant ,medicine ,Animals ,education ,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics ,media_common ,Sex Characteristics ,education.field_of_study ,Reproduction ,Body Weight ,Indeterminate growth ,biology.organism_classification ,Sexual dimorphism ,Reproductive strategies ,Female ,medicine.symptom ,Weight gain ,Research Article ,Sex characteristics - Abstract
Background The growth strategy of a species influences many key aspects of its life-history. Animals can either grow indeterminately (throughout life), or grow determinately, ceasing at maturity. In mammals, continued weight gain after maturity is clearly distinguishable from continued skeletal growth (indeterminate growth). Elephants represent an interesting candidate for studying growth because of their large size, long life and sexual dimorphism. Objective measures of their weight, height and age, however, are rare. Results We investigate evidence for indeterminate growth in the Asian elephant Elephas maximus using a longitudinal dataset from a semi-captive population. We fit growth curves to weight and height measurements, assess sex differences in growth, and test for indeterminate growth by comparing the asymptotes for height and weight curves. Our results show no evidence for indeterminate growth in the Asian elephant; neither sex increases in height throughout life, with the majority of height growth completed by the age of 15 years in females and 21 years in males. Females show a similar pattern with weight, whereas males continue to gain weight until over age 50. Neither sex shows any declines in weight with age. Conclusions These results have implications for understanding mammalian life-history, which could include sex-specific differences in trade-offs between size and reproductive investment.
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- 2015
33. How Big Is It Really? Assessing the Efficacy of Indirect Estimates of Body Size in Asian Elephants
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Simon N, Chapman, Hannah S, Mumby, Jennie A H, Crawley, Khyne U, Mar, Win, Htut, Aung, Thura Soe, Htoo Htoo, Aung, and Virpi, Lummaa
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Male ,Asia ,Physiology ,Imaging Techniques ,Elephants ,Timber ,Myanmar ,Linear Regression Analysis ,Research and Analysis Methods ,Geographical Locations ,Mathematical and Statistical Techniques ,Plant Products ,Photography ,Medicine and Health Sciences ,Animals ,Body Size ,Statistical Methods ,Conservation Science ,Mammals ,Morphometry ,Body Weight ,Ecology and Environmental Sciences ,Organisms ,Biology and Life Sciences ,Agriculture ,Agronomy ,Physiological Parameters ,Vertebrates ,Physical Sciences ,People and Places ,Regression Analysis ,Female ,Mathematics ,Statistics (Mathematics) ,Research Article ,Crop Science - Abstract
Information on an organism’s body size is pivotal in understanding its life history and fitness, as well as helping inform conservation measures. However, for many species, particularly large-bodied wild animals, taking accurate body size measurements can be a challenge. Various means to estimate body size have been employed, from more direct methods such as using photogrammetry to obtain height or length measurements, to indirect prediction of weight using other body morphometrics or even the size of dung boli. It is often unclear how accurate these measures are because they cannot be compared to objective measures. Here, we investigate how well existing estimation equations predict the actual body weight of Asian elephants Elephas maximus, using body measurements (height, chest girth, length, foot circumference and neck circumference) taken directly from a large population of semi-captive animals in Myanmar (n = 404). We then define new and better fitting formulas to predict body weight in Myanmar elephants from these readily available measures. We also investigate whether the important parameters height and chest girth can be estimated from photographs (n = 151). Our results show considerable variation in the ability of existing estimation equations to predict weight, and that the equations proposed in this paper predict weight better in almost all circumstances. We also find that measurements from standardised photographs reflect body height and chest girth after applying minor adjustments. Our results have implications for size estimation of large wild animals in the field, as well as for management in captive settings.
- Published
- 2015
34. Additional file 1: Table S1. of Distinguishing between determinate and indeterminate growth in a long-lived mammal
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Mumby, Hannah, Chapman, Simon, Crawley, Jennie, Khyne Mar, Htut, Win, Aung Thura Soe, Htoo Aung, and Lummaa, Virpi
- Abstract
Coefficients of determination for growth curves generated with the growth functions Gompertz, 3-Parameter Logistic and von Bertalanffy. Bolded values show the function that provides the best fitting growth curve. Figure S1. Height curves for a) females and b) males, derived from average measurements of captive-born individuals (n = 170 and 159). Each line indicates a different growth function: von Bertalanffy represented by a solid line, 3-parameter logistic by dashes, and Gompertz by a dotted line. Figure S2. Weight curves for a) females and b) males, derived from average measurements of captive-born individuals (n = 172 and 159). Each line indicates a different growth function: von Bertalanffy represented by a solid line, 3-parameter logistic by dashes, and Gompertz by a dotted line. (PDF 483 kb)
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- 2015
- Full Text
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35. How Big Is It Really? Assessing the Efficacy of Indirect Estimates of Body Size in Asian Elephants
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Chapman, Simon N., primary, Mumby, Hannah S., additional, Crawley, Jennie A. H., additional, Mar, Khyne U., additional, Htut, Win, additional, Thura Soe, Aung, additional, Aung, Htoo Htoo, additional, and Lummaa, Virpi, additional
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- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. Regulation of mouse Heparanase gene expression in T lymphocytes and tumor cells
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Amanda M. de Mestre, Thura Soe-Htwe, Sudha Rao, Elissa L Sutcliffe, Mark D. Hulett, June R. Hornby, and Eloisa Pagler
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T-Lymphocytes ,Immunology ,Molecular Sequence Data ,EGR1 ,Biology ,Response Elements ,Polymerase Chain Reaction ,Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic ,Transactivation ,Mice ,Transcription (biology) ,Cell Line, Tumor ,Gene expression ,Immunology and Allergy ,Animals ,Humans ,Heparanase ,RNA, Messenger ,Cloning, Molecular ,Promoter Regions, Genetic ,Transcription factor ,Early Growth Response Protein 1 ,Glucuronidase ,Regulation of gene expression ,Base Sequence ,Cell Biology ,Sequence Analysis, DNA ,Molecular biology ,Cell biology ,Mice, Inbred C57BL ,Organ Specificity ,Cell activation - Abstract
Heparanase (HPSE) is an endoglycosidase that cleaves heparan sulfate (HS) and plays an important role in tumor metastasis, angiogenesis and inflammation. The regulation of HPSE expression and function is tightly controlled and the increasing use of the mouse as an animal model to define the role of HPSE in many physiological and pathological settings, makes understanding the regulatory mechanisms of HPSE in this species of fundamental importance. However, the expression distribution of the mouse Hpse gene and the mechanisms that regulate its transcription are poorly defined. In this study, the mouse Hpse gene was determined to encode for two mRNA transcripts of 1.9 and 3.2 kb in length with identical open reading frames that showed similar tissue expression distribution to the human HPSE. The mouse Hpse promoter was cloned and a 478-bp minimal promoter was identified that contained regulatory elements responsible for both basal promoter activity in mouse tumor cells as well as inducible activity in T cells. Mutagenesis and transactivation studies identified a functional site in the minimal promoter region for the transcription factor Early growth response gene 1 (Egr1). Interestingly, Egr1 acted differentially in mouse tumor cells, functioning in an activating or repressive manner in breast carcinoma or melanoma cells, respectively. Furthermore, the proximal region of the promoter, identified as important in the regulation of Hpse transcription, was shown to become accessible in T cells upon cell activation. Significantly, the maximal accessibility of the promoter occurred at 16 h post-stimulation, which correlated with the induction kinetics of Hpse mRNA expression. In summary, this study demonstrates that mouse Hpse is expressed and regulated in a similar manner to human HPSE and also provides some novel insights into mechanisms of Hpse gene regulation that are likely to be relevant to control of the human gene.
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- 2007
37. Early growth response gene 1 (EGR1) regulates heparanase gene transcription in tumor cells
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Amanda M. de Mestre, June R. Hornby, Mark D. Hulett, Levon M. Khachigian, Thura Soe-Htwe, and Sudha Rao
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Transcriptional Activation ,endocrine system ,Chromatin Immunoprecipitation ,Transcription, Genetic ,Blotting, Western ,Molecular Sequence Data ,Biology ,Transfection ,Biochemistry ,Cell Line ,Transactivation ,Jurkat Cells ,Mice ,Transcription (biology) ,Genes, Reporter ,Cell Line, Tumor ,Neoplasms ,Gene silencing ,Animals ,Humans ,Heparanase ,RNA, Messenger ,Luciferases ,Promoter Regions, Genetic ,Molecular Biology ,Transcription factor ,Melanoma ,DNA Primers ,Early Growth Response Protein 1 ,Glucuronidase ,Cell Nucleus ,Binding Sites ,Base Sequence ,Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ,Neovascularization, Pathologic ,Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ,Promoter ,Cell Biology ,Cancer research ,Mutagenesis, Site-Directed ,RNA ,Chromatin immunoprecipitation ,Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans ,Plasmids - Abstract
Heparanase is an endoglycosidase that degrades heparan sulfate chains of heparan sulfate proteoglycans, a key component of extracellular matrix and basement membranes. Studies using heparanase inhibitors and gene silencing have provided evidence to support an important role for heparanase in tumor metastasis and angiogenesis. The expression of heparanase is normally very tightly controlled, however, it is commonly deregulated in tumor cells, which express elevated heparanase activity that correlates with high levels of heparanase mRNA. We recently identified the transcription factor early growth response gene 1, EGR1, as a key regulator of inducible heparanase transcription in T cells. In this study using chromatin immunoprecipitation, we demonstrate for the first time that EGR1 binds to the heparanase gene promoter in vivo. The important question of the role of EGR1 in regulating heparanase transcription in tumor cells was then assessed. Studies were carried out in four epithelial tumor lines of different tissue origin. Functional dissection of the heparanase promoter identified a 280-bp region that was critical for transcription of the heparanase gene. Transactivation studies using an EGR1 expression vector co-transfected with a reporter construct containing the 280-bp region showed EGR1-activated heparanase promoter activity in a dose-dependent manner in prostate or breast adenocarcinoma and colon carcinoma cell lines. In contrast, overexpression of EGR1 resulted in a dose-dependent repression of promoter activity in melanoma cells. Using site-directed mutagenesis the 280-bp region was found to contain two functional EGR1 sites and electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed binding of EGR1 to both of these sites upon activation of tumor cells. Furthermore, the heparanase promoter region containing the EGR1 sites was also inducible in tumor cells and induction corresponded to HPSE expression levels. These studies show that EGR1 regulates heparanase transcription in tumor cells and importantly, can have a repressive or activating role depending on the tumor type.
- Published
- 2005
38. Surgical Treatment of a Cervico-vaginal Prolapse in an Elephant in Myanmar.
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Zaw Min Oo, Myo Nay Zar, Aung Thura Soe, Htoo Htoo Aung, Kyaw Soe, Kyaw Nyein, Win Htut, Myo Shwe, Aung Myint Tun, Than Soe, Than Naing Oo, Than Zaw Win, Moe Win Tun, Ko Moe, Thi Han Chit, Myo Than, Wan Tun, Ba Kyaw Than, Moe Myint, and Thiha
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UTERINE prolapse ,ELEPHANTS ,ELEPHANT care ,ANTIBIOTICS ,WOUNDS & injuries - Abstract
The article provides information on a female elephant Myint Ngae in Myanmar who underwent surgical treatment for cervico vaginal prolapse. Topics discussed include animal care governed at the Myanma Timber Enterprise (MTE), antibiotics and tetanus toxoid (ATT), list of drugs used while surgery, and other cases of such prolapse.
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- 2016
39. Direction Controlled Descent of Samara Autorotating Wings (SAW) with n-Wings
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Luke Thura Soe Win, Tze Huan Goh, Gim Song Soh, Jun En Low, Danial Sufiyan bin Shaiful, Shane Kyi Hla Win, and Shaohui Foong
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Wing ,business.industry ,Computer science ,Translational motion ,Gyroscope ,Propulsion ,Samara ,law.invention ,Ball joint ,Controllability ,Autorotation ,law ,Trajectory ,Descent (aeronautics) ,Aerospace engineering ,business - Abstract
The seeds of Maple trees (Samara) use autorotation as a unique mechanism to disperse their seeds. By exploiting gyroscopic stability of a spinning wing, the Samara is able to cover large horizontal distance despite having no form of propulsion. We applied and adapted this natural ability in our novel concept, the Samara Autorotating Wings (SAW), and extended its stability and direction controllability by generalizing the mechanism to incorporate designs with more than 1 wing. By conceiving cyclic control, the translational motion of autorotation is regulated. A nonlinear model of SAW with $n$ wings is derived and control schemes developed to control the translational position during autorotation. Numerical simulations were performed to investigate the performance of the multi-wing SAW prototypes to track a conical spiral autorotation trajectory. Direct experiments were conducted in a vertical wind-tunnel through a special ball joint that allows z-axis translation and all three rotational degrees of freedom. Finally, free-fall drop tests are used to verify the directional controllability and performance of SAW.
40. How Big Is It Really? Assessing the Efficacy of Indirect Estimates of Body Size in Asian Elephants
- Author
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Simon N Chapman, Hannah S Mumby, Jennie A H Crawley, Khyne U Mar, Win Htut, Aung Thura Soe, Htoo Htoo Aung, Virpi Lummaa, Mumby, Hannah [0000-0002-1774-5688], and Apollo - University of Cambridge Repository
- Subjects
Male ,lcsh:R ,Body Weight ,Elephants ,Photography ,lcsh:Medicine ,Animals ,Body Size ,Regression Analysis ,lcsh:Q ,Female ,Myanmar ,lcsh:Science - Abstract
Information on an organism's body size is pivotal in understanding its life history and fitness, as well as helping inform conservation measures. However, for many species, particularly large-bodied wild animals, taking accurate body size measurements can be a challenge. Various means to estimate body size have been employed, from more direct methods such as using photogrammetry to obtain height or length measurements, to indirect prediction of weight using other body morphometrics or even the size of dung boli. It is often unclear how accurate these measures are because they cannot be compared to objective measures. Here, we investigate how well existing estimation equations predict the actual body weight of Asian elephants Elephas maximus, using body measurements (height, chest girth, length, foot circumference and neck circumference) taken directly from a large population of semi-captive animals in Myanmar (n = 404). We then define new and better fitting formulas to predict body weight in Myanmar elephants from these readily available measures. We also investigate whether the important parameters height and chest girth can be estimated from photographs (n = 151). Our results show considerable variation in the ability of existing estimation equations to predict weight, and that the equations proposed in this paper predict weight better in almost all circumstances. We also find that measurements from standardised photographs reflect body height and chest girth after applying minor adjustments. Our results have implications for size estimation of large wild animals in the field, as well as for management in captive settings.
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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