Rapid ammonia build-up in small individually ventilated mouse cages cannot be overcome by adjusting the amount of bedding.

We sought to investigate if varying levels of bedding had an effect on intra-cage ammonia levels in individually ventilated mouse cages (Euro Standard Types II and III). Employing a routine 2 week cage-changing interval, our goal is to keep ammonia levels under 50 ppm. In smaller cages used for breeding or for housing more than four mice, we measured problematic levels of intra-cage ammonia, and a considerable proportion of these cages had ammonia levels at more than 50 ppm toward the end of the cage-change cycle. These levels were not reduced significantly when the levels of absorbent wood chip bedding was either increased or decreased by 50%. The mice in both cage types II and III were housed at comparable stocking densities, yet ammonia levels in larger cages remained lower. This finding highlights the role of cage volume, as opposed to simply the floor space, in controlling air quality. With the current introduction of newer cage designs that employ an even smaller headspace, our study urges caution. With individually ventilated cages, problems with intra-cage ammonia may go undetected, and we may opt to utilize insufficient cage-changing intervals. Few modern cages have been designed to account for the amounts and types of enrichment that are used (and, in parts of the world, mandated) today, adding to the problems associated with decreasing cage volumes.

Role of Doppler Ultrasound in Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Histopathological Correlation.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer in the world and the leading cause (possibly third) of cancer mortality. In a present scenario, HCC displays a challenging clinical problem worldwide. Good-quality ultra sound with careful evaluation of the hepatobiliary system can be a screening examination for HCC in patients at risk. The aim of the study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Doppler sonography for differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from other focal liver lesions. It was a cross-sectional survey, conducted in the Department of Radiology& Imaging, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from January 2017 to December 2018. A total of 70 patients with space occupying lesions on ultrasound were included in this study while pregnant women were excluded. All patients were examined by gray scale ultrasonography, color Doppler and FNAC. To visualize the blood flow, standard color Doppler sonography was used for each lesion. Within the lesions, pulsed Doppler samples were assessed whenever possible on the basis of pulsatile flow & finally resistive index (RI) of intra-tumoral and peritumoral arterial flow was studied. After evaluating by Doppler sonography (CDFI and Spectral analysis), FNAC was done and the specimen was sent to the Department of Pathology for Cytopathological examination. Cytopathology were assessed for confirmation of positive and negative cases of HCC. The detection rate of arterial flow in malignant tumors was 85.1% and in benign lesions were 30.4%. Doppler spectrum analysis showed that the resistive index in primary malignant tumors were 0.76±0.12 and in metastatic tumors were 0.80±0.12 and below 0.6 in benign lesions. The difference was significant (p<0.001). This difference was related with its Cytopathological report. The arterial flow identified by CDFI within the liver lesion with RI >0.6 can be regarded as a criterion of malignant tumors and RI<0.6 can be regarded as benign lesions. This study concluded that the combination of color Doppler flow imaging and RI are more useful in differential diagnosis of liver neoplasms.

A multicentre study reveals dysbiosis in the microbial co-infection and antimicrobial resistance gene profile in the nasopharynx of COVID-19 patients.

The impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the nasopharyngeal microbiome has not been well characterised. We sequenced genetic material extracted from nasopharyngeal swabs of SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals who were asymptomatic (n = 14), had mild (n = 64) or severe symptoms (n = 11), as well as from SARS-CoV-2-negative individuals who had never-been infected (n = 5) or had recovered from infection (n = 7). Using robust filters, we identified 1345 taxa with approximately 0.1% or greater read abundance. Overall, the severe cohort microbiome was least diverse. Bacterial pathogens were found in all cohorts, but fungal species identifications were rare. Few taxa were common between cohorts suggesting a limited human nasopharynx core microbiome. Genes encoding resistance mechanisms to 10 antimicrobial classes (> 25% sequence coverages, 315 genes, 63 non-redundant) were identified, with ß-lactam resistance genes near ubiquitous. Patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 (asymptomatic and mild) had a greater incidence of antibiotic resistance genes and a greater microbial burden than the SARS-CoV-2-negative individuals. This should be considered when deciding how to treat COVID-19 related bacterial infections.

Serum Magnesium Level and It's Relation in Predicting Adverse In-Hospital Outcome in Patients with First Attack of Myocardial Infarction.

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients characterize a large proportion of admissions in coronary care unit and their management and risk stratification is of immense importance. Hypomagnesemia is a long-term risk factor for incident of both myocardial infarction and arrhythmia. We assessed whether serum magnesium levels at admission is associated with arrhythmias and in-hospital mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic implications of serum magnesium level in patients with acute myocardial infarction. This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the department of cardiology in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital from October 2017 to March 2019. Total 259 acute myocardial infarction patients were included considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. The sample population was divided into two groups: Group-I: Patients with acute myocardial infarction with serum magnesium ≥1.82mg/dl. Group-II: Patients with acute myocardial infarction with serum magnesium <1.82mg/dl. Serum magnesium level was measured on admission, and the incidence of in-hospital major cardiac events was assessed. In this study mean serum magnesium level of Group-I, Group-II were 2.21±0.14mg/dl, 1.60±0.15mg/dl respectively. It was statistically significant (p<0.05). In-hospital outcomes of the study group revealed that low risk group patients were uneventful outcome during hospitalization period, they had no any complication. In Group-I patient, 9(4.8%) were developed arrhythmias, 26(13.9%) were developed heart failure, 9(4.8%) were developed cardiogenic shock and 3(1.6%) were died and in Group-II patient, 44(61.10%) developed arrhythmias, 9(12.50%) were developed heart failure, 7(9.7%) were developed cardiogenic shock and 12(16.7%) were died out of them which was statistically significant (p<0.05). Mean duration of hospital stay of the study population according serum magnesium level was in Group-I, 4.27±0.68 days, in Group-II, 5.84±1.05 days which was statistically significant (p<0.05). In conclusion patient with serum magnesium level less than 1.82mg/dl increased the risk of in-hospital arrhythmia and death.

Morphometric measurements and carcass characteristics of Black Australorp, Naked Neck, and Rhode Island Red crossbreds under alternative production systems / Medições morfométricas e características de carcaça de Black Australorp, Naked Neck e Rhode Island Red crossbreds sob sistemas de produção alternativos

Abstract The present trial explained the effect of alternative production systems on growth, morphometric and carcass traits of four different chicken genotypes. The second generation of two genotypes RNN (Rhode Island Red × Naked Neck) and BNN (Black Australorp × Naked Neck) obtained by two self-crosses (RNN × RNN = RR and BNN × BNN = BB) and two reciprocal crosses (RNN × BNN = RB and BNN × RNN = BR) were evaluated in three alternative production systems (conventional cages, enriched cages, and aviary). At the 6th week of age after sexing, a total of 600 birds, comprising 150 from each crossbred with a total of 300 pullets and 300 cockerels were divided into conventional cages, enriched cages, and aviary systems having 200 birds in each.Birds were organized into 3×4 factorial arrangements under Completely Randomized Design (3 production systems × 4 genotypes × 2 sexes × 25 birds = 600 birds). Regarding genotypes, RB and BR males showed higher (p < 0.01) carcass yield, drumstick weight, breast weight, and thigh weight than BB and RR genotypes. Females of BR genotype showed higher (p < 0.01) breast weight, thigh weight and drumstick weight. As far as production systems are concerned, higher (p < 0.01) liver weight, heart weight, breast weight, intestinal weight, drumstick weight, and thigh weight were observed in the males reared in enriched cages compared with conventional cages and aviary system. Females reared in enriched cages showed higher (p < 0.01) heart weight, breast weight, intestinal weight, drumstick weight, and thigh weight when compared with those reared in conventional cages and aviary. It is concluded that chickens (both sexes) of BR and RB genotypes had better morphological measurements and carcass traits than those of RR and BB genotype chickens. Among alternative production systems, chickens reared in enriched cages had better traits than those of reared in conventional cages and aviary during the growing phase.

Resumo O presente estudo explicou o efeito de sistemas alternativos de produção sobre o crescimento, características morfométricas e carcaças de quatro genótipos de frango diferentes. A segunda geração de dois genótipos RNN (Rhode Island Red × Naked Neck) e BNN (Black Australorp × Naked Neck) obtida por duas autocruzes (RNN × RNN = RR e B ANN × BNN = BB) e duas cruzes recíprocas (RNN × BNN = RB e BNN × RNN = BR) foi avaliada em três sistemas de produção alternativos (gaiolas convencionais, gaiolas enriquecidas e aviário). Na 6ª semana de idade após o sexo, um total de 600 aves, compostas por 150 de cada raça cruzada com um total de 300 pullets e 300 galos, foi dividido em gaiolas convencionais, gaiolas enriquecidas e sistemas aviários com 200 aves em cada. As aves foram organizadas em 3×4 arranjos fatoriais sob projeto completamente randomizado (3 sistemas de produção × 4 genótipos × 2 sexos × 25 aves = 600 aves). Em relação aos genótipos, os machos RB e BR apresentaram maior rendimento de carcaça (p < 0,01), peso da baqueta, peso mamário e peso da coxa do que os genótipos BB e RR. As fêmeas do genótipo BR apresentaram maior (p < 0,01) peso mamário, peso da coxa e peso da baqueta. No que diz respeito aos sistemas de produção, maior (p < 0,01) peso hepático, peso cardíaco, peso mamário, peso intestinal, peso da baqueta e peso da coxa foram observados nos machos criados em gaiolas enriquecidas em comparação com gaiolas convencionais e sistema aviário. As fêmeas criadas em gaiolas enriquecidas apresentaram maior (p < 0,01) peso cardíaco, peso mamário, peso intestinal, peso da baqueta e peso da coxa quando comparadas com as criadas em gaiolas convencionais e aviárias. Conclui-se que as galinhas (ambos os sexos) dos genótipos BR e RB apresentaram melhores medidas morfológicas e traços de carcaça do que os de frangos genótipos RR e BB. Entre os sistemas de produção alternativos, as galinhas criadas em gaiolas enriquecidas tinham características melhores do que as criadas em gaiolas convencionais e aviárias durante a fase de cultivo.

Allergic rhinitis: An indicator of otitis media with effusion in children seen at aminu kano teaching hospital, Kano.

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a multifocal IgE-mediated type I hypersensitivity reaction involving nasal mucosa characterized by excessive sneezing, watery rhinorrhea, nasal itching, nasal stuffiness, and eyes itching. Tympanometry is a simple, rapid, and objective test that can be easily carried out. The use of tympanometry in clinical setting can improve detection of middle ear effusion and other middle ear abnormalities. AR has been found to be one of the predisposing factors to developing Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) in children. Patients and Methods: A case-control study was used to determine the prevalence of OME among children with AR as cases and those without allergy as controls. The study participants were children aged 4-12 years with clinical diagnosis of AR attending ENT clinics of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, whereas controls were children age 4-12 years without history of AR, ear diseases, or other respiratory system related ailments attending general outpatient clinics in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. An interviewer-administered score for AR (SFAR) questionnaire was filled out for all the participants, those with score of 6 and above were selected as cases. The two groups had complete ENT examination and tympanometry done, findings were recorded, and analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results: The mean age of the cases was 6.8 ± 2.1 years, whereas it was 7.5 ± 2.6 years for the controls. The mean difference was 0.7 and was not statistically significant (t = 2.35, df = 258, P value = 0.20). Type B tympanogram suggesting OME was found in 7.3% of subjects and in 2.8% of controls. Type C tympanogram suggesting negative middle ear pressure was found in 15.5% of subjects and in 4.6% of controls. Type A tympanogram suggesting normal middle ear pressure was found in 75% of subjects and in 90% of controls. Acoustic reflex was found to be absent in 29.6% of subjects and in 15.4% of controls and this found to be statistically significant (χ2 = 7.77, df = 1, P value = 0.001). The difference between type A, B, and C tympanograms of subjects and that of controls was found to be statistically significant (Type A χ2 = 14.62, df = 4, P value = 0.01, Type B χ2 = 14.06, df = 4, P value = 0.01, Type C χ2 = 17.01, df = 6, P value = 0.01). Type B tympanogram was used as an indicator to suggest OME for the purpose of this study. Conclusion: Participants with AR were found to have more abnormalities of tympanometric parameters and higher prevalence of type B tympanogram suggesting OME than controls.

Dehydration Stress Memory Genes in Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum (Desf.).

Exposure to successive stress cycles can result in a variety of memory response patterns in several plant species. We have investigated a group of these patterns at both the transcriptional and physiological memory levels in durum wheat. The data revealed huge discrepancies between investigated durum wheat cultivars, which presumably are all drought tolerant. It was possible to generate a consensus memory response pattern for each cultivar, where Hourani 27 was the most tolerant followed by Balikh 2 and then Omrabi 5. When durum wheat homologs from rice and maize were compared, only 18% gave similar memory response patterns. The data would indicate the presence of potentially divergent memory mechanisms in different plant species and genotypes. Ultimately, a thorough examination is required for each genotype before giving solid memory-based conclusions that can be applied in plant breeding and agricultural management practices.

The relationship between Big Five Personality Traits, eating habits, physical activity, and obesity in Indonesia based on analysis of the 5th wave Indonesia Family Life Survey (2014).

This study investigated the association between Big Five Personality Traits (Openness to new experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism) and nutrition-related variables (eating habits, physical activity, and obesity using Body Mass Index). We used secondary data from the Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS) wave 5 involving a total of 14,473 men and 16,467 women aged 15-101 years (mean = 37.34; SD = 14.916) in Indonesia that was selected by stratified random sampling conducted in the period 2014 to 2015. Data were collected through interviews with the Big Five Index 15 and a questionnaire similar to the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire which was translated into the Indonesian language, and based on measurements of height and weight. Analyses used binary logistic regression test controlled by socio-demographic factors (age, gender, education, occupation, and marital status) to determine the association between Big Five Personality Traits and eating habits (recommended and non-recommended foods), physical activity, and obesity. Results showed that openness and extraversion were positively associated with recommended and non-recommended foods, conscientiousness was positively associated with only recommended foods, agreeableness was positively associated with recommended foods, and negatively associated with only one non-recommended food. Whereas, neuroticism was positively associated with non-recommended foods and negatively associated with recommended foods. Openness (p = 0.010; OR = 1.015; 95% CI = 1.004-1.027) and conscientiousness (p < 0.001; OR = 1.045; 95% CI = 1.030-1.059) were associated with physical activity. Conscientiousness (p = 0.002; OR = 1.025; 95% CI = 1.009-1.041), extraversion (p < 0.001; OR = 1.079; 95% CI = 1.065-1.092), and neuroticism (p < 0.001; OR = 0.966; 95% CI = 0.953-0.978) were associated with obesity. Although some results were different from previous studies, these associations can be used as strategies of behavioral change due to the adaptation of personality characteristics, which can be modified even though the personality tends to be persistent. Further studies are needed to understand other mechanisms that might underlie this association.

Management of Neglected Rupture of Tendoachilles with Long Gap by Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon Transfer.

The tendo achilles is one of most important tendon in human body which often injured through direct trauma or indirect stress on a weakened tendon. Longer the duration after injury the injured parts likely to move apart, fibrosis and degeneration leading to difficulty in repair or reconstruction. Usually a phase of 4 weeks or more without specific treatment is regarded as chronic or neglected rupture. Different authors described many management protocols about the tendo achilles rupture but there is no procedure of choice for neglected rupture with long gap. Prospective case series of 21 patients of neglected tendo achilles rupture with long gap treated with flexor hallucis longus tendon (FHLT) transfer was taken for study from January 2019 to December 2020 in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh. Average age of patients was 39.47 years with range 22-65 years. Fifteen (15) cases of traumatic rupture in this study with average age 32.66 years and pathologic 6 cases with average age 56.5 years were recorded. We grafted FHLT from channel by incising Henry's knot. Krackow et al.'s technique was followed for tendon mobilization and bone fixation. We made procedure simpler and cheaper; instead of using interference screw the sutured tendon pulled through the heel and anchored over rubber tube or button by Cole method. Post-operative complications were less with one patient with superficial infection which eventually recovered 3 cases of mild pain and 2 cases of numbness. Questionnaire for surgical outcome measure are satisfactory in 19 patients (90.47%). Final follow up AOFAS score at 6 month (91.61±5.41) was highly significant (p<0.001) in comparison to preoperative score (38.71±9.78). These are comparable to other study. Above mentioned scores indicate the reliability of the surgical system. But our study is a prospective case series with minimum cases. To establish the best procedure for neglected tendo achilles rupture with long gap we recommend further study with larger group and Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) study among different procedure.

Incidence and determinants of catastrophic health expenditure among low-income Malaysian households.

INTRODUCTION: Catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) incurs when out-of-pocket health expenditure (OOPHE) exceeds a certain threshold, therefore exposing households to financial hardship, with the low-income population being most vulnerable. Data related to the incidence and determinants of CHE among the low-income population in Malaysia are lacking. This study aims to determine the incidence and determinants of CHE among Malaysian lowincome households. METHODOLOGY: This is a cross-sectional study using data from 6,720 low-income households from the national Household Expenditure Survey (HES) 2016 conducted from May 2016 till February 2017. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS software 25.0. OOPHE in this study included all spending on healthcare products and services by the household. CHE was identified in households with OOPHE of at least 10% of total monthly income. RESULTS: The incidence of CHE at the threshold of 10% household income was 1.7% (n=112). The determinants of CHE were households with any accident or medical insurance (p<0.001), having less than five members in a household (p<0.001), presence of elderly (p=0.024), and hospitalisation (p=0.021). In contrast, employment of the head of household (p=0.003) and having a child aged ≤5 years old (p=0.033) protect households from CHE. CONCLUSION: In the context of this study, the incidence of CHE among the low-income Malaysian population was low, indicating that a majority of the low-income population is protected from financial catastrophe. Regardless, the determinants of CHE among low-income population should be considered in future health policies.

A matrix representation for sustainable activities.

The present paper develops a matrix framework to determine the sustainability of multiple activities simultaneously. We define an activity as an action or process involving multiple resources; each activity depends upon other activities at a higher level. First, the problem of sustainability is framed in the context of an input-output model. Later, an infinite layer approach is adopted to represent different sectors of the economy and both renewable and non-renewable resources. Using the infinite layer approach, the concentration of renewable energy usage is calculated for each activity. The conversion to productive use varies from one resource to another. The current endeavor also focuses on enhancing energy efficiency to reduce non-renewable resource dependency.

Varying isoleucine level to determine effects on performance, egg quality, serum biochemistry, and ileal protein digestibility in diets of young laying hens.

To ascertain an appropriate level of isoleucine for LSL-LITE layers (23- to 30-week-old), diets containing total isoleucine concentrations (levels) of 0.66 (Control), 0.69, 0.72, 0.75, 0.78, 0.81, and 0.84% were fed as 7 treatments (2730 kcal/kg metabolizable energy) x 7 replicates x 10 birds per replicate. Significance for performance, egg quality, serum biochemistry, and ileal digestibility of protein was determined at P ≤ 0.05. Level, week, and level*week (L*W) were significant for production, egg mass, and feed intake. Level and week were significant for FCR. Week was significant for weight gain. Level was significant for egg weight, specific gravity, and shell thickness; week was also significant for these external egg parameters as well as shape index and proportional shell thickness. L*W was significant for all except shape index. For internal egg measurements, level was significant for proportional yolk, proportional albumen, yolk index, and yolk:albumen. Week was significant for internal egg parameters while L*W significantly affected Haugh unit, proportional albumen weight, yolk index, albumen index, and yolk color. Level was significant for globulin and glucose in serum. Isoleucine at 0.72%, 0.81%, and 0.84% produced the lowest FCR, an important standard in the poultry industry. Considering the low FCR of 1.45 and cost for inclusion as a dietary ingredient, 0.72% isoleucine was chosen for further studies with varying quantities of other branched chain amino acids in diets for young laying hens.

Interspecific variations in external and internal egg quality among various captive avian species from Punjab, Pakistan / Variações interespecíficas na qualidade externa e interna do ovo entre várias espécies de aves em cativeiro de Punjab, Paquistão

Abstract Present study was planned to determine variations in external and internal quality egg parameters of different avian species including ostrich Struthio camelus, ducks Anas platyrhynchos, chicken Gallus gallus, turkeys Meleagris gallopavo and grey francolin Francolinus pondicerinus. All the birds were kept under similar rearing conditions. A total of 150 eggs were collected for each species to record external features of these eggs. Statistically significant (p<0.05) variations were recorded in egg weight, egg length and egg width between ostrich, ducks, chicken, turkey and quail eggs. Significantly (p<0.05) higher egg weight, egg length and egg width was observed for ostrich eggs while the same was lowest for grey francolin eggs. Similarly, significantly (p<0.05) greater shape index and egg volume values were observed for ostrich eggs while lowest shape index values were recorded for turkey eggs and egg volume was lowest for grey francolin. Significantly, higher (p<0.05) values of egg density were noted for eggs of the quail and the same were lowest for ostrich eggs. Non-significant variations in egg density values were observed between eggs of the ducks, chicken, turkey and grey francolin. It has been concluded that the positive correlations between the internal and external egg quality traits indicated that the traits can be improved through selection.

Resumo O presente estudo foi planejado para determinar variações nos parâmetros externos e internos de qualidade dos ovos de diferentes espécies de aves, incluindo avestruz Struthio camelus, patos Anas platyrhynchos, frango Gallus gallus, perus Meleagris gallopavo e francolin cinza Francolinus pondicerinus. Todas as aves foram mantidas em condições de criação semelhantes. Um total de 150 ovos foi coletado para cada espécie para registrar as características externas desses ovos. Variações estatisticamente significativas (p < 0,05) foram registradas no peso do ovo, comprimento do ovo e largura do ovo entre os ovos de avestruz, patos, galinha, peru e codorna. Significativamente (p < 0,05) maior peso do ovo, comprimento e largura do ovo foram observados para ovos de avestruz, enquanto o mesmo foi menor para ovos de francolina cinza. Da mesma forma, significativamente (p < 0,05) maiores valores de índice de forma e volume de ovo foram observados para ovos de avestruz, enquanto os menores valores de índice de forma foram registrados para ovos de peru e o volume de ovo foi menor para francolina cinza. Significativamente, maiores (p < 0,05) valores de densidade de ovos foram observados para ovos de codorna e os mesmos foram menores para ovos de avestruz. Variações não significativas nos valores de densidade de ovos foram observadas entre os ovos de pato, frango, peru e francolina cinza. Concluiu-se que as correlações positivas entre as características internas e externas de qualidade do ovo indicaram que as características podem ser melhoradas por meio da seleção.

Morphometric measurements and carcass characteristics of Black Australorp, Naked Neck, and Rhode Island Red crossbreds under alternative production systems.

The present trial explained the effect of alternative production systems on growth, morphometric and carcass traits of four different chicken genotypes. The second generation of two genotypes RNN (Rhode Island Red × Naked Neck) and BNN (Black Australorp × Naked Neck) obtained by two self-crosses (RNN × RNN = RR and BNN × BNN = BB) and two reciprocal crosses (RNN × BNN = RB and BNN × RNN = BR) were evaluated in three alternative production systems (conventional cages, enriched cages, and aviary). At the 6th week of age after sexing, a total of 600 birds, comprising 150 from each crossbred with a total of 300 pullets and 300 cockerels were divided into conventional cages, enriched cages, and aviary systems having 200 birds in each.Birds were organized into 3×4 factorial arrangements under Completely Randomized Design (3 production systems × 4 genotypes × 2 sexes × 25 birds = 600 birds). Regarding genotypes, RB and BR males showed higher (p < 0.01) carcass yield, drumstick weight, breast weight, and thigh weight than BB and RR genotypes. Females of BR genotype showed higher (p < 0.01) breast weight, thigh weight and drumstick weight. As far as production systems are concerned, higher (p < 0.01) liver weight, heart weight, breast weight, intestinal weight, drumstick weight, and thigh weight were observed in the males reared in enriched cages compared with conventional cages and aviary system. Females reared in enriched cages showed higher (p < 0.01) heart weight, breast weight, intestinal weight, drumstick weight, and thigh weight when compared with those reared in conventional cages and aviary. It is concluded that chickens (both sexes) of BR and RB genotypes had better morphological measurements and carcass traits than those of RR and BB genotype chickens. Among alternative production systems, chickens reared in enriched cages had better traits than those of reared in conventional cages and aviary during the growing phase.

Self-efficacy in physical activity and glycemic control among older adults with diabetes in Jagir Subdistrict, Surabaya, Indonesia.

Diabetes in older adults has shown an increase in prevalence, especially in urban areas of Indonesia. This study aimed to assess the relationship between self-efficacy in physical activity and glycemic control in older adults' population with diabetes mellitus in Indonesia. This research used cross sectional design that involved 52 adults with diabetes, aged between 55-90 years old who regularly attended the older adult's health post (Posyandu Lansia) at Jagir Sub-district, Surabaya. Those who had physical disabilities were excluded from the study. Questionnaires were used to measure the physical activity and two types of self-efficacy whilst the glycemic control was measured using HbA1c in basal condition. The relationship between the variables was tested using Pearson and partial correlation test. Results show that the level of physical activity was insufficient (216.4 ± 343.5 MET) with only 32.7% (N = 17) of the participants was categorized as being physically active. The mean of the HbA1c indicated poor glycaemic control (8.63 ± 2.34%) with majority of them (76.9%, N = 40) was in the poor glycaemic control group (HbA1c ≥ 6.5%). Their self-efficacy was at the average level (Against the barriers:52.65 ± 13.23; Engage in physical activity: 59.06 ± 26.2). The self-efficacy in performing the physical activity was found significantly related to the duration of physical activity (r = 0.278, p = 0.046). Other relationships, however, were not significant (p > 0.05). In conclusion, self-efficacy to engage in physical activity is paramount to increase the physical activity among the older adults. Nevertheless, further longitudinal research on self-efficacy in physical activity management is needed.

Antimicrobial Resistance Profiling and Molecular Epidemiological Analysis of Extended Spectrum ß-Lactamases Produced by Extraintestinal Invasive Escherichia coli Isolates From Ethiopia: The Presence of International High-Risk Clones ST131 and ST410 Revealed.

The treatment of invasive Escherichia coli infections is a challenge because of the emergence and rapid spread of multidrug resistant strains. Particular problems are those strains that produce extended spectrum ß-lactamases (ESBL's). Although the global characterization of these enzymes is advanced, knowledge of their molecular basis among clinical E. coli isolates in Ethiopia is extremely limited. This study intends to address this knowledge gap. The study combines antimicrobial resistance profiling and molecular epidemiology of ESBL genes among 204 E. coli clinical isolates collected from patient urine, blood, and pus at four geographically distinct health facilities in Ethiopia. All isolates exhibited multidrug resistance, with extensive resistance to ampicillin and first to fourth line generation cephalosporins and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim and ciprofloxacin. Extended spectrum ß-lactamase genes were detected in 189 strains, and all but one were positive for CTX-Ms ß-lactamases. Genes encoding for the group-1 CTX-Ms enzymes were most prolific, and CTX-M-15 was the most common ESBL identified. Group-9 CTX-Ms including CTX-M-14 and CTX-27 were detected only in 12 isolates and SHV ESBL types were identified in just 8 isolates. Bacterial typing revealed a high amount of strains associated with the B2 phylogenetic group. Crucially, the international high risk clones ST131 and ST410 were among the sequence types identified. This first time study revealed a high prevalence of CTX-M type ESBL's circulating among E. coli clinical isolates in Ethiopia. Critically, they are associated with multidrug resistance phenotypes and high-risk clones first characterized in other parts of the world.

Interspecific variations in external and internal egg quality among various captive avian species from Punjab, Pakistan.

Present study was planned to determine variations in external and internal quality egg parameters of different avian species including ostrich Struthio camelus, ducks Anas platyrhynchos, chicken Gallus gallus, turkeys Meleagris gallopavo and grey francolin Francolinus pondicerinus. All the birds were kept under similar rearing conditions. A total of 150 eggs were collected for each species to record external features of these eggs. Statistically significant (p<0.05) variations were recorded in egg weight, egg length and egg width between ostrich, ducks, chicken, turkey and quail eggs. Significantly (p<0.05) higher egg weight, egg length and egg width was observed for ostrich eggs while the same was lowest for grey francolin eggs. Similarly, significantly (p<0.05) greater shape index and egg volume values were observed for ostrich eggs while lowest shape index values were recorded for turkey eggs and egg volume was lowest for grey francolin. Significantly, higher (p<0.05) values of egg density were noted for eggs of the quail and the same were lowest for ostrich eggs. Non-significant variations in egg density values were observed between eggs of the ducks, chicken, turkey and grey francolin. It has been concluded that the positive correlations between the internal and external egg quality traits indicated that the traits can be improved through selection.

RNA atlas of human bacterial pathogens uncovers stress dynamics linked to infection.

Bacterial processes necessary for adaption to stressful host environments are potential targets for new antimicrobials. Here, we report large-scale transcriptomic analyses of 32 human bacterial pathogens grown under 11 stress conditions mimicking human host environments. The potential relevance of the in vitro stress conditions and responses is supported by comparisons with available in vivo transcriptomes of clinically important pathogens. Calculation of a probability score enables comparative cross-microbial analyses of the stress responses, revealing common and unique regulatory responses to different stresses, as well as overlapping processes participating in different stress responses. We identify conserved and species-specific 'universal stress responders', that is, genes showing altered expression in multiple stress conditions. Non-coding RNAs are involved in a substantial proportion of the responses. The data are collected in a freely available, interactive online resource (PATHOgenex).

Anorectal Malformations and Associated Anomalies in Children.

Anorectal malformations (ARM) incorporate a broad spectrum of diseases, can affect both sexes, and involve the distal anus and rectum as well as the uro-genital tracts. Defects range from the minor which can be treated easily with an excellent outcome, to those are complex and often associated with other anomalies are difficult to manage with poor functional prognosis. This study was done to observe the hospital incidence of Anorectal malformations, frequency of types, sex distribution and spectrum of associations with ARM. The effects of presence of associated anomalies on morbidity and mortality also observed. Detailed history, clinical examinations and relevant investigations were performed for the primary and as well as the associated anomalies. A total of 80 patients were admitted in the department of pediatric surgery in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital during the period of June 2016 to May 2017. Age of the patients was ranging from 1-180 days with the mean age of 0.49±1.002 months. Male: Female ratio was 1.6: 1. Among them 48(60%) were high and 32(40%) were low variety of ARM. In male 37(46.2%) had high and 13(13.7%) were low variety whereas in female 11(13.7%) were high and 19(23.7%) had low ARM. Associated anomalies were seen in 25(31.2%) patient -18 in males and 7 in females; 20 in high and 5 in low ARM. Associated anomalies were uro-genital 11(13.8%), cardiovascular 10(12.5%), vertebral 4(5%), limb defects 3(3.5%) and others 2(2.5%). Four patients have more than one anomaly. Anorectal malformations occur more in boys than girls. Males were more likely to have high lesions and without fistula was the common defect. Low variety ARM were found more in females with Anovestibular fistula is the commonest defect. The most common associated anomalies were recto urinary fistula (13.8%). Associations were more in high than low ARM but not significant (p>0.05). Post operative complications were more in high ARM in both sexes with associated anomalies. The effects of types and associations on morbidity and mortality were significantly different (p<0.05).

Impact of family-based selection on growth performance and immune response of Japanese quail.

The present study was aimed to evaluate the growth performance and immune response of three genetic lines of Japanese quails. These lines i.e., selected for 4-week body-weight group (WBS), selected for egg number (EBS), and random-bred control (RBC), were selected for three consecutive generations from a base population of 1125 quails. In total, 2700 four-week-old quails from three selected groups were slaughtered in total of four generations (G0 to G3). Effects of selection and generations as well as their interactions were assessed for growth performance and immune response by applying a two-way analysis of variance. Significant means were compared with Duncan's Multiple Range Test. The statistical analysis showed a significant effect of selection and generations on most of the growth and immune response parameters. WBS in G3 presented significantly higher values of body weight, weight gain, and FCR than RBC and EBS. FCR was better in WBS during G3 than those of EBS and RBC. However, Livability% was highest in RBC while the lowest was noted in G3 of WBS line. Thymus% and spleen% were higher in EBS as compared to RBC and WBS. RBC presented a better B/S ratio and ND titer than those of EBS and WBS. The decreasing trend of ND titer in both lines of WBS and EBS as compared to RBC suggested a decrease in New Castle disease resistance in progressive generations of selection. It was concluded that selection for body weight and egg number has a positive impact on respective traits but negatively affects the immunity in later generations.