Search Results (120)

Background: Aortic arch surgery using the frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique remains one of the most complex scenarios in cardiac anesthesia. The anesthesiologist plays a central role in maintaining neuroprotection, organ perfusion and hemodynamic stability during hypothermic circulatory arrest and selective cerebral perfusion. This review summarizes key anesthetic principles aimed at improving neurologic and systemic outcomes. Methods: This narrative review examines current evidence and expert recommendation on temperature and perfusion management, neuromonitoring, coagulation control and postoperative strategies specific to FET procedures. Results: Modern approaches emphasize moderate hypothermia with tailored selective cerebral perfusion, multimodal neuromonitoring and structured organ protection bundles. Evidence supports the use of physiology-guided perfusion, viscoelastic-based coagulation management and coordinated teamwork with surgical and perfusion specialists to reduce neurologic injury, bleeding and postoperative organ dysfunction. Conclusions: Anesthetic management in FET surgery requires an integrated, physiology-based strategy supported by advanced monitoring and close interdisciplinary coordination. Adoption of standardized organ-protection and perfusion protocols is essential to optimize neurologic and systemic outcomes in this high-risk population. Full article

Background: The health and viability of captive elephants, which are central to off-site conservation efforts and health management in Thailand, is threatened by emerging infectious diseases. This is partly due to genetic differences in immune-related genes, especially in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and, among these, loci such as DQA play a crucial role in immune surveillance. Data pertaining to MHC polymorphisms in elephants are scarce, and thus this study investigated such polymorphisms and selection signatures in a partial fragment of exon 2 of the MHC Class II DQA gene. Methods: The approach we used targeted next-generation sequencing and diversity analyses of individuals from three captive elephant camps in Northern Thailand. Results: Eight alleles containing 11 SNPs were identified in the exon 2 fragment, encompassing both silent and missense mutations, some of which may influence immune function. Notably, the allele Elma-DQA*TH3, which is identical to Loaf-DQA*01 and Elma-DQA*01, previously reported as the most common alleles in Loxodonta and Elephas, was found at low frequencies. This shift may reflect local selective pressures that shape MHC allele distributions. Evidence of mixed selection (both positive and balancing) was detected in the partial fragment of DQA exon 2, suggesting a dynamic interplay between evolutionary forces. Positive selection likely reflects an adaptation to emerging or locally prevalent pathogens, whereas balancing selection maintains allelic diversity over time to enable a broad immunological response. Conclusions: Our findings reveal immunogenetic variations in captive Thai elephants, and provides insights into host–pathogen interactions that inform conservation and health strategies with the aim of improving disease resilience. Full article

Background/Objectives: The frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique is a cornerstone procedure for complex thoracic aortic pathologies. This single-center retrospective study evaluates early and midterm outcomes of total arch replacement (TAR) using three generations of the E-vita Open hybrid prosthesis over 11 years. Methods: From January 2013 to June 2024, 51 patients underwent TAR with the FET technique using the E-vita Open prostheses. Exclusion criteria were isolated ascending or descending aortic replacement, partial arch replacement, TAR without FET, and use of other stent grafts. We analyzed outcomes including in-hospital mortality, survival, stroke, spinal cord injury, and renal complications across three prosthesis generations. Results: The cohort included 52.9% males, with a mean age of 61.5 ± 10.51 years. FET as reoperation was performed in 52.9% patients. In-hospital mortality was 7.8% and, unexpectedly, only occurred with the newest E-vita Open Neo (23.5%), despite this being the latest generation. Overall survival was 72.5% at one year, 60.8% at two years, and 54.9% at three years. Stroke occurred in 17.6% with marked variation by pathology: 0% in dissection, 31.6% in aneurysm, and 13.6% in combined disease. Spinal cord injury occurred in 7.8%. Re-operation was a significant risk factor for complications and was strongly associated with renal complications (85.7% of dialysis patients) but not mortality. Secondary endovascular procedures were required in 49% of patients. Conclusions: The FET technique with E-vita Open prostheses demonstrates acceptable outcomes in high-risk patients with complex aortic pathologies. While perioperative morbidity is significant, particularly in reoperative cases, it varies significantly by underlying pathology and prosthesis generation, with unexpected trends suggesting that technological advancement does not automatically translate into improved outcomes. Despite this, the procedure enables comprehensive management of extensive aortic disease through a staged approach. Full article

The periphery of Lomami National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) is experiencing intense and increasing hunting pressure, driven by both local subsistence needs and growing urban demand for bushmeat. This situation poses a serious challenge to sustainable natural resource management and underscores the need to realign protected-area policies with the realities faced by surrounding communities. In the absence of comprehensive ecological monitoring, this study used hunters’ perceptions to assess the current availability of mammalian wildlife around the park. From October to December 2023, surveys were conducted using a snowball sampling method with 60 hunters from nine villages bordering the park. Results show that hunting is a male-dominated activity, mainly practiced by individuals aged 30–40 years, with firearms as the primary tools. It occurs both in the park’s buffer zones and, alarmingly, within its core protected area. This practice has contributed to the local disappearance of key species such as African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), and African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus), and to the marked decline of several Cephalophus species. These patterns of overexploitation reveal critical weaknesses in current conservation strategies and point to the urgent need for integrated, community-based resource management approaches. Strengthening law enforcement, improving ranger support, and enhancing participatory governance mechanisms are essential. Equally important is the promotion of sustainable alternative livelihoods—including livestock farming, aquaculture, and agroforestry—to reduce hunting dependence and build long-term resilience for both biodiversity and local communities. Full article

Tourist flow prediction plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of scenic area management, optimizing resource allocation, and promoting the sustainable development of the tourism industry. To improve the accuracy and real-time performance of tourist flow prediction, we propose a BP model based on a hybrid genetic algorithm (GA) and ant colony optimization algorithm (ACO), called the GA-ACO-BP model. First, we comprehensively considered multiple key factors related to tourist flow, including historical tourist flow data (such as tourist flow from yesterday, the previous day, and the same period last year), holiday types, climate comfort, and search popularity index on online map platforms. Second, to address the tendency of the BP model to get easily stuck in local optima, we introduce the GA, which has excellent global search capabilities. Finally, to further improve local convergence speed, we further introduce the ACO algorithm. The experimental results based on tourist flow data from the Elephant Trunk Hill Scenic Area in Guilin indicate that the GA-AC*O-BP model achieves optimal values for key tourist flow prediction metrics such as MAPE, RMSE, MAE, and R², compared to commonly used prediction models. These values are 4.09%, 426.34, 258.80, and 0.98795, respectively. Compared to the initial BP neural network, the improved GA-ACO-BP model reduced error metrics such as MAPE, RMSE, and MAE by 1.12%, 244.04, and 122.91, respectively, and increased the R² metric by 1.85%. Full article

Cobboldia elephantis (Oestridae: Gasterophilinae) is an obligate parasite of the alimentary tract of the Asian elephant, causing gastric myiasis. Current knowledge of its first instar larval morphology has been limited to observations under light microscopy, significantly constraining our understanding of morphological evolution within the genus Cobboldia and the broader subfamily Gasterophilinae. In this study, we provided ultrastructural and three-dimensional characterizations of C. elephantis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) based on newly hatched first instar larvae. Features of the first instar larva of C. elephantis, which are either unique or shared with C. loxodontis Brauer, 1896, include (i) three pairs of mouthhooks, (ii) posterior spiracles bearing peristigmatic tufts, (iii) anal division with two spine-clusters and a row of elongated spines, and (iv) a planed, button-like sensilla and a sensillum placodeum. We also compared the first instar larval morphology of C. elephantis with that of Cobboldia loxodontis, Gyrostigma rhinocerontis (Owen, 1830), Gasterophilus pecorum (Fabricius, 1794), Portschinskia magnifica Pleske, 1926, and Oestrus ovis Linnaeus, 1758. Species of Gasterophilinae share several unique features of the first instar larva, including (i) an anal division composed of three subdivisions, (ii) spiracular slits on the posterior spiracles, and (iii) conserved positioning of thoracic sensilla. These findings fill a key gap in our knowledge of C. elephantis larval morphology and suggest that these distinctive structures play a role in adaptation to its parasitic lifestyle. Full article

This paper introduces a novel monitoring and scheduling strategy based on software-defined networking (SDN) to address the challenges of elephant flow scheduling and localization in conventional networks. The plan involves collecting and analyzing switch data, effectively monitoring elephant flows, and enhancing the traditional distributed solution. Meanwhile, elephant flow scenarios are simulated by the iperf tool, and Fat-Tree and Leaf-Spine topologies are simulated in Mininet. Experimental results demonstrate significant network stability and resource utilization improvements with the proposed strategy. Specifically, in the Leaf-Spine topology, the network throughput stabilized around 8 Mbps with minimal fluctuation and no congestion over a 120-s test, compared to multiple throughput drops to 0 Mbps under the Fat-Tree topology. In addition, the proposed scheduling approach takes advantage of monitoring and scheduling for elephant flow, a promising scheme to enhance traffic management efficiency in large-scale network environments. Full article

Understanding hormone patterns in free-ranging African elephants can provide critical insights for the management of elephants in human care, particularly in addressing reproductive anomalies and the rising prevalence of obesity in zoo populations. This study is the first to establish baseline values for glucose, insulin, and leptin, and their potential relationships with reproductive and stress hormones. We measured the hormones in serum samples collected opportunistically in Kruger National Park between 2000 and 2016. Endocrine profiles were compared across age groups in both male and female elephants and between the wet and dry seasons. In females, progestogen and prolactin levels were highest in adults, and were not significantly correlated with the glucose-to-insulin (G/I) ratio or leptin. In males, testosterone levels were higher in adults, and the G/I ratio was a significant predictor of testosterone concentrations. Seasonal variations revealed that, in males, testosterone levels were higher, and cortisol concentrations were lower during the rainy season. In females, cortisol concentrations were negatively associated with progestogen levels during the dry season. These benchmarks offer zoos a reference point to assess whether current management approaches are effective, and how natural variation with the season may impact hormone levels. Full article

Free-ranging dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) pose a significant but often overlooked threat to wildlife populations and global conservation efforts while also having the potential to contribute positively to conservation initiatives. As generalist predators and scavengers, these adaptable animals can lead to biodiversity loss through predation, disease transmission, competition, and behavioral disruption of native species. This review synthesizes global studies on their ecological impact, highlighting notable cases of predation on endangered species, such as the markhor (Capra falconeri cashmiriensis) in Pakistan and elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) in Mexico, as well as the spread of zoonotic diseases like Echinococcus spp. and canine distemper. A growing concern is hybridization between free-ranging dogs and wild canids. Such genetic mixing can erode local adaptations, reduce genetic purity, and undermine conservation efforts for wild canid populations. Current management strategies—including lethal control, trap–neuter–release, and vaccination—have produced mixed results and face challenges related to data limitations, regional variability, and cultural barriers. This review advocates for integrated, context-specific management approaches that consider ecological, social, and economic dimensions. Future research should prioritize standardized definitions and data collection, long-term evaluation of intervention effectiveness, and the socio-economic drivers of dog–wildlife interactions to develop sustainable solutions for mitigating the multifaceted threats imposed by free-ranging dogs to global diversity. Full article

Traditional cattle health monitoring systems rely on centralized data collection, posing significant challenges related to data privacy, network connectivity, model reliability, and trust. This study introduces a novel, nature-inspired federated learning (FL) framework for cattle health monitoring, integrating blockchain to ensure model validation, system resilience, and reputation management. Inspired by the fission–fusion dynamics of elephant herds, the framework adaptively forms and merges subgroups of edge nodes based on six key parameters: health metrics, activity levels, geographical proximity, resource availability, temporal activity, and network connectivity. Graph attention networks (GATs) enable dynamic fission, while Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) supports subgroup fusion based on model similarity. Blockchain smart contracts validate model contributions and ensure that only high-performing models participate in global aggregation. A reputation-driven mechanism promotes reliable nodes and discourages unstable participants. Experimental results show the proposed framework achieves 94.3% model accuracy, faster convergence, and improved resource efficiency. This adaptive and privacy-preserving approach transforms cattle health monitoring into a more trustworthy, efficient, and resilient process. Full article

Vertebrate molecular genetic research methods typically employ single genetic loci (monolocus markers) and those involving a variable number of loci (multilocus markers). The former often employ microsatellites that ensure accuracy in establishing inbreeding, tracking pan-generational dynamics of genetic parameters, assessing genetic purity, and facilitating genotype/phenotype correlations. They also enable the determination and identification of unique alleles by studying and managing marker-assisted breeding regimes to control the artificial selection of agriculturally important traits. Microsatellites consist of 2–6 nucleotides that repeat numerous times and are widely distributed throughout genomes. Their main advantages lie in their ease of use for PCR amplification, their known genome localization, and their incredible polymorphism (variability) levels. Robust lab-based molecular technologies are supplemented by high-quality statistics and bioinformatics and have been widely employed, especially in those instances when more costly, high throughput techniques are not available. Here, we consider that human and livestock microsatellite studies have been a “roadmap” for the genetics, breeding, and conservation of wildlife and rare animal breeds. In this context, we examine humans and other primates, cattle and other artiodactyls, chickens and other birds, carnivores (cats and dogs), elephants, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Studies originally designed for mass animal production have thus been adapted to save less abundant species, highlighting the need for molecular scientists to consider where research may be applied in different disciplines. Full article

Forage scarcity, intensified by climate variability and edaphoclimatic limitations in the Brazilian semiarid region, challenges regional livestock production. In this context, forage palm is a strategic alternative due to its drought resistance and environmental adaptability. However, little is known about the spatial and temporal dynamics of its cultivation. This study aimed to characterize the spatio-temporal dynamics of forage palm cultivation in Capoeiras-PE between 2019 and 2022 using remote sensing data and multitemporal analysis of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), processed via Google Earth Engine. Experimental areas with Opuntia stricta (“Mexican Elephant Ear”) and Nopalea cochenillifera (“Miúda”) were monitored, with field validation and descriptive statistical analysis. NDVI values ranged from −0.27 to 0.93, influenced by rainfall, cultivar morphology, and seasonal conditions. The “Miúda” cultivar showed a lower coefficient of variation (CV%), indicating greater spectral stability, while “Orelha de Elefante Mexicana” was more sensitive to climate and management, showing a higher CV%. Land use and land cover (LULC) analysis indicated increased sparse vegetation and exposed soil, suggesting intensified anthropogenic activity in the Caatinga biome. Reclassified NDVI enabled spatial estimation of forage palm, despite sensor resolution and spectral similarity with other vegetation. The integrated use of satellite data, field validation, and geoprocessing tools proved effective for agricultural monitoring and territorial planning. Full article

This case report details the successful rehabilitation of a 31-year-old male Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) presenting with an abnormal left forelimb gait following chronic traumatic injury. The elephant exhibited a distinctive circumduction gait with a semicircular arc movement, characterized by limited flexion at the elbow and carpus, along with compensatory proximal shrugging during the swing phase. Diagnostic evaluations revealed joint space narrowing and ligament fibrosis, while biomechanical gait analysis using inertial measurement units highlighted significant asymmetries between affected and unaffected limbs. An interprofessional team developed a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol that integrated peripheral magnetic stimulation, task-specific therapeutic walking with adjustable obstacles, and progressive strengthening exercises. At the eight-week follow-up, improvements were observed in cross-correlation coefficients of limb movement and imaging assessments, indicating enhanced symmetry and structural improvements with reduced fibrosis. However, persistent discrepancies in elbow functions suggest that further targeted rehabilitation may be warranted. This report underscores the potential of a coordinated interprofessional approach to restore functional gait patterns in elephants and offers valuable insights for future rehabilitative strategies in managing complex musculoskeletal injuries in large mammals. Full article

Multimorbidity is the conjoint presence of multiple conditions in patients, which is a public health problem. Multimorbidity is like the elephant in the clinic room because it remains the unaddressed challenge we face in healthcare. Clinical health psychology has a role to play in this undertaking because it recognizes the intersection and interface of concurrent mental and/or behavioral problems and physical diseases. The current article will define multimorbidity, describe current statistics, how it differs from comorbidity, how to use the biopsychosocial model, and ways in which clinical health psychologists can manage and prevent it in their clinics. A model of how to address multimorbidity will be shared using the role of a clinical health psychologist working in a multidisciplinary pain clinic in a hospital setting serving patients who are socioeconomically disadvantaged. Full article

The Frozen Elephant Trunk (FET) technique is indicated in acute aortic syndromes with arch involvement and malperfusion of tissues. We sought to report on long-term outcomes of FET in emergent cases of acute aortic syndromes. Methods: Twenty-three adult patients were referred to our department for surgical management of acute aortic syndromes and underwent aortic arch replacement using the FET technique between November 2010 and January 2022. The primary outcome was long-term survival. Secondary outcomes were the 30-day mortality rate and the incidence of neurologic complications, i.e., stroke and spinal cord ischemia. Results: The mean patient age was 57.1 (±12.5) years, and the majority (20 patients, 87%) were male. The most common indication was Stanford type A acute aortic dissection (aTAAD) in 17 (74%) patients, followed by non-A non-B dissection in 2 (8.7%) patients, penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU) of the aortic arch in 2 (8.7%) patients, type A intramural hematoma (IMH) in 1 (4.3%) patient and blunt thoracic aortic injury of the aortic arch in 1 (4.3%) patient. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed a 73% survival at 12 months, which persisted up to 11 years of follow-up. Conclusion: The FET technique provides a reliable solution for surgical management of patients with acute aortic syndromes. Excellent, sustained long-term results can be achieved. Full article