Flotation Method Research Articles

PREVALENCE OF GASTROINTESTINAL NEMATODES INFECTION IN BALI CATTLE CALVES AT BERINGKIT ANIMAL MARKET BADUNG REGENCY

Calves infected with gastrointestinal nematodes can spread diseases to other livestock in a new environment, causing a decrease in quality, and financial losses for farmers. This study aims to determine the prevalence and intensity of infection, as well as the gastrointestinal nematodes infecting Bali cattle calves at the Beringkit Livestock Market, Badung Regency. The study used a floatation method to identify worm egg morphology and continued with the McMaster method to determine infection intensity. Out of 100 fecal samples examined, 65 samples were found positive for gastrointestinal nematode infection, resulting in a prevalence of 65% infection among Bali cattle calves at the Beringkit Livestock Market, Badung Regency. The identified nematodes were strongyle-type worms (64%) with an infection intensity of 203 ± 384 EPG, Strongyloides papillosus (10%) with an infection intensity of 100 ± 89 EPG, and Toxocara vitulorum (9%) with an infection intensity of 155 ± 287 EPG. It is concluded from this study that the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode infections in Bali cattle calves at the Beringkit Livestock Market, Badung Regency was high with infection intensity falling into the mild category. Regular and continuous deworming is necessary as a control and prevention measure for gastrointestinal nematode infections in Bali cattle calves.

Technology of extraction of fuel mass from ash and slag waste in Ukraine

Purpose. Development of a technological scheme for the processing of ash and slag waste from coal-fired thermal power plants. The methods. The ash and slag dumps of thermal power plants are made up of the main components - slag, ash and unburned coal particles, drawing up an appropriate scheme for the extraction of coal particles allows the development of an effective scheme for the processing of ash and slag outputs of thermal power plants. The slag is separated from the fly ash by classification on a screen. Next, the method of extracting fuel mass from fly ash is used - the flotation method, based on the selective fixation of coal particles on the surface of air bubbles in the flotation chamber, with subsequent extraction of coal particles into a foam product. The mineral part of the ash cleaned from the fuel mass is ready for use in the road construction industry. Findings. A technological scheme for the processing of ash and slag waste of coal-fired thermal power plants has been developed, which makes it possible to obtain slag, high-quality coal concentrate, and the mineral part of ash. The originality. For the first time, a mathematical model was developed for forecasting indicators of enrichment of ash and slag waste of coal-fired thermal power plants by the flotation method. To predict beneficiation indicators, it is necessary to use three disclosure values: the initial ash content of the coal fraction (Aпd), the number of coal grains (PРЗ), the number of rock grains (PНЗ), provided that the separation characteristics of the beneficiation equipment are experimentally determined in advance. On the basis of the developed mathematical model of forecasting indicators of ash slag waste enrichment, an appropriate flotation scheme for effective extraction of fuel mass was drawn up, which made it possible to develop a technological scheme for processing ash slag waste of coal-fired thermal power plants. Practical implementation. The developed technological scheme for the processing of ash and slag waste makes it possible to obtain slag with a yield of 3.11% suitable for filling industrial roads, coal concentrate with a yield of 25.75% with an ash content of 21.80% can be used as a secondary fuel for thermal power plants or as a raw material for production solid fuel briquettes, as well as the mineral part of ash with a yield of 71.14% with an ash content of 98.10%, which can be used in the road construction industry.

PERBEDAAN MODIFIKASI LARUTAN ZnS (Zinc sulfite) DENGAN NaCl (Natrium Cloride) 0.9 % METODE FLOTASI TERHADAP JUMLAH TELUR CACING Soil Transmitted Helminth (STH)

Worms is a disease caused by the entry of parasites in the form of worms into the human body due to the influence of environmental factors or food that is not kept clean. Factors that cause the risk of helminthiasis in humans include food that is infected with worm eggs, feet that are in direct contact with soil containing worm vectors because they do not wear footwear, the habit of defecating in random places, availability of clean water, hand washing, washing habits. plates, And nail hygiene. The purpose of this study was to determine the difference in the number of worm eggs to be found using ZnS 1% and NaCl 0.9% solution using the flotation method. The data obtained from faecal examination using the flotation method with ZnS 1% and NaCl 0.9%, namely Soil Transmitted Helminth (STH) worm eggs, then the number of eggs will be presented in table form and analyzed descriptively. Result With the average yield of worm eggs found in a solution of ZnS 1% and NaCl 0.9% using the flotation method for the number of Soil Transmitted Helminth (STH) worm eggs. In ZnS 1% solution the average is 2.12 with 4 Ascaris lumbricoides eggs, Trichuris trichura 2 and 3 hookworms while in 0.9% NaCl solution the average is 1.31 with 5 Ascaris lumbricoides worm eggs, Trichuris trichura 1 and worms mine 1. The Manny Whitney statistical test showed results of Sig 0.003 (P<0.005), so it was concluded that there was a difference in the number of STH worm eggs found using ZnS 1% solution and 0.9% NaCl using the flotation method.

Development of Reagents - Blowing Agents Based on Local Raw Materials and their Research

The development and search for effective reagents and optimal technological conditions is one of the main factors for improving the coal flotation process. Solving these problems increases the technological and economic efficiency of flotation enrichment. The article discusses methods for producing foaming regents based on waste from the distillation process of cottonseed oil - gossypol resin and methods of flotation of various classes of fine coal. The advantages of this foaming agent include the availability of raw materials, which are a product of domestic industry, produced at the enterprises of the Kattakurgan MJK and amino alcohols (mono- , di- and triethanolamine) , sufficient resources and relative low cost. Conducted research to assess the effectiveness, surface activity and foaming ability of the resulting reagents - in foaming agents, according to the proposed technology of the studied technical products, the resulting product belongs to the surface-active reagents and has high flotation activity. The physico-chemical and foam-forming properties, foam stability, destruction kinetics and other properties of flotation reagents - foaming agents SK-1 and SK-2 - have been studied. The results of studies of the influence of foaming reagents in the process of flotation and extraction of precious and non-ferrous metals are presented. The optimal option for the effective composition of composite chemical flotation reagents - foaming agents and their parameters was selected. The results of scientific research conducted at JSC NMMC on the use of analogues of the foaming agents SK-1 and SK-2 are given in comparison with the reagents (Oxal) currently used at the plant. The elemental composition of man-made waste samples using reagents SK-1 and SK-2 was determined.

Parasitological investigation of soil biotope in the territory of Moscow

The purpose of the research is to conduct a sanitary and parasitological examination of soil biotopes on the territory of Moscow. In addition to traditional soil studies, we conducted coproscopic analyzes of samples of dog feces collected from the soil surface in Spring.Materials and methods. 83 combined soil samples were taken in 9 administrative districts of Moscow using the envelope method at a depth of up to 10 cm. From each combined sample, 4 samples were taken and examined using the Romanenko method according to MUK 4.2.2661-10 “Methods of sanitary and parasitological research”. From the same areas where soil was collected, 365 dog fecal samples were collected. Feces were studied using a combined flotation method. Soil and fecal samples were taken in Spring of 2023 during a period of positive temperatures immediately after the snow melted. Microscopy was performed using a Motic BA410T microscope. Identification of the detected objects was carried out on the basis of morphometric data. Species differentiation of Toxocara canis and T. cati eggs was carried out based on differences in the size of the eggs and the structure of the outer shell.Results and discussion. The city's soil is contaminated with pathogens of parasitic diseases in 9.3% of samples. Toxocara eggs were found (5.7%), of which T. canis in 3.9% of samples, and T. cati in 1.8% of samples. Eggs of Capillaria sp. detected in 1.5%, eggs of Trichuris sp. at 0.9%. Eggs of Hymenolepis sp. and coccidia were detected in 0.6% of samples. In dog feces, pathogens of parasitic diseases were detected in 3.3% of samples. Toxocara sp. eggs were found in 1.4% of samples, isospores in 0.8%, sarcocystis in 0.8%, Toxascaris leonina eggs in 0.3%. Toxocara sp. eggs are the leaders in the frequency of detection in the soil; these are mainly viable eggs with larvae. This is consistent with the data that T. canis eggs are most often recorded in anonymized dog feces. Eggs of Trichuris sp. and Capillaria sp. found in soil with formed viable larvae. The findings show the potential of urban soils as a parasite transmission factor for humans and susceptible animals, and dogs play a leading role in the contamination of urban soils with Toxocara sp. eggs.

Effects of micro- and nano-bubbles on the flotation separation of unburned carbon from coal fly ash

ABSTRACT Nanobubble technology has found extensive use in enhancing the flotation efficiency of various minerals. The utilization of nanobubbles in flotation encompasses bulk nanobubbles, surface nanobubbles, and microbubbles; however, a comprehensive comparison of their respective roles is lacking. Furthermore, there is a dearth of studies on employing nanobubble systems in the flotation of coal fly ash. The coal fly ash characters were initially studied to reveal its ultrafine size (d50: 24.80 μm) and porous structure that includes a multitude of hydrophilic functional groups. These attributes contribute to the inadequate hydrophobicity of unburned carbon within the ash. Subsequently, the effects of different collector types, frother types, and air flow rates on the efficiency of carbon removal using conventional flotation methods were examined. Comparative analysis showed that conventional flotation using diesel oil outperformed that which employed kerosene as the collector. Additionally, higher carbon removal efficiency was achieved using MIBC, with a longer carbon chain length, as the frother, as opposed to sec-Octyl alcohol. Furthermore, a direct relationship between air flow rate and coal fly ash flotation performance was observed – higher air flow rates corresponded to improved flotation outcomes. Finally, a comparison between conventional flotation and nanobubble-assisted flotation (utilizing bulk nanobubbles, surface nanobubbles, and micro-nanobubbles) was conducted. Remarkably, micro-nanobubble flotation yielded the most promising results, with the lowest loss-on-ignition in flotation tailings (3.15%) and the highest removal efficiency of unburned carbon (85.01%). These findings satisfied the loss-on-ignition requirements of Grade I fly ash standards.

Estimation of protozoal diversity among stray cats in Malaysia

Abstract. Abdulwahab MH, Al-Talib H. 2024. Estimation of protozoal diversity among stray cats in Malaysia. Biodiversitas 25: 2115-2120. This cross sectional study was carried out to estimate the current prevalence and protozoa species in stray cats feces in Malaysia. A total of 320 fresh fecal samples were collected from S.I Home Shelter-Selangor, EJ CAT Home- Melaka, and KB-Cat Shelter - Kelantan in Malaysia. The collected fecal samples were concentrated for the presence of intestinal protozoa using a ready-made commercial Parasep tube floatation method. The fecal samples were stained with iodine and examined for protozoa by microscopic examination. The overall prevalence of intestinal protozoa in cat feces was 73.1% (n = 234). Isospora felis was most frequently detected (n = 145; 62%), followed by Toxoplasma gondii (n = 75; 32%), Giardia intestinalis (n = 9; 3.8%), Entamoeba histolytica (n = 9; 3.8%), and Tritrichomonas foetus (n = 6; 12.5%). Monoparasitism was detected in 65.8%, which was more frequent than polyparasitism (34.2%). Therefore, the local population is at risk of exposure to a wide range of zoonotic protozoa through environmental contamination with cat feces, and the current findings should be used to mitigate public health risks. Prevention and control measures need to be taken to reduce prevalence rates, especially in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities where animals live in close proximity to humans, where poor sanitation and overcrowding exist along with a lack of veterinary care and awareness of zoonotic diseases.

Effects of modified coal gasification fine slag on the processing and mechanical properties of natural rubber composites

AbstractCoal gasification fine slag (CGFS) is rich in unburned residual carbon, silica and alumina, and has a large specific surface area, making it a potential polymer‐reinforcing filler. Tea polyphenol (TP)‐modified coal gasification fine slag (TP‐CGFS‐T) was prepared using flotation and modification methods in this study. The effects of unmodified and modified CGFS‐T on the sulfurization performance, processing properties, thermal stability, fracture morphology, and mechanical properties of natural rubber composite materials were investigated. Results indicated that after TP modification, CGFS‐T exhibited highly uniform dispersion on the surface without the agglomeration of fillers. When the dosage of TP‐CGFS‐T was 20 phr, the comprehensive performance of the natural rubber (NR) composite material was optimal, with a tensile strength of 12.12 MPa, the elongation at break of 1208.83%, the tear strength of 30.94 kN/m, and the shore hardness of 38.7 A. As the amount of TP‐CGFS‐T increased, the scorch time of NR increased, which enhanced the processing safety of rubber. This study provides a strategy for treating CGFS, which can both reduce the pollution caused by CGFS and save costs for NR composite materials.Highlight The CGFS is separated into concentrate and tailings by flotation. The compatibility between fillers and the matrix is enhanced by TP modification of CGFS‐T. The composite materials show excellent mechanical and processing properties.

A case study on the recovery of unevenly embedded particle size in high-carbon chalcopyrite using an alkyne-based thioester collector: Flotation processing and adsorption mechanism

The difference in chalcopyrite's primary ore-hosting rocks (dolomite and carbonaceous slate) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo results in an extremely uneven grain size distribution. Additionally, the presence of 2.21% organic carbon in the gangue impacts flotation efficiency. To address these challenges, ore properties were analyzed using the Mineral Liberation Analyzer (MLA), X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD), and microscopy. Flotation process was modified to incorporate a "middlings regrinding" processing, utilizing PDEC (an alkyne-based thioester collector, prop-2-yn-1-yl diethylcarbamodithioate) as the collector for experimental studies. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations elucidated the interaction mechanism of PDEC on chalcopyrite's surface. The MLA analysis indicates that chalcopyrite is mainly found in medium to fine grains, with the presence of fine-grained copper minerals smaller than 0.04mm accounting for 16.29% of the sample. This implies that these minerals require fine grinding for effective separation. Despite interference from organic carbon, PDEC demonstrates remarkable selectivity and efficiency in chalcopyrite flotation. By employing the "middlings regrinding" flotation method, a concentrate with a Cu content of 26.79% and a recovery of 87.88% was achieved, representing an increase of 0.17% in Cu grade and 4.09% in recovery rate compared to the conventional flotation process. DFT analysis demonstrates that the S 3p orbitals in carbon-sulfur double bond of PDEC and the C 2p orbitals in its acetylene group significantly affect its collection efficiency, engaging in hybridization with the Fe 3d orbitals on the surface of chalcopyrite, thereby facilitating a robust bonding interaction.

Experimental Research on the Floating Amount of Shield Tunnel Based on the Innovative Cumulative Floating Amount Calculation Method

The study of shield tunnel segment flotation is crucial for controlling the precision of underground excavation projects. Based on Winkler’s beam foundation theory, the load structure method, and the equivalent continuous beam model, and by considering the mechanical and spatial conditions that cause segment flotation, a novel theoretical calculation method for cumulative flotation is proposed using a simplified equivalent stiffness model of the tunnel. Additionally, a new concept of “equivalent flotation force” is introduced. The rationality and applicability of this theoretical calculation method are verified by comparing it with on-site construction data from the Yuanjiang River Crossing Tunnel Project in Changde, Hunan Province, China. The experimental results demonstrate that the theoretical calculation closely approximates the surface deformation monitoring data of the tunnel alignment in the eastern section of the project, and their deformation patterns are similar. Near the starting shaft, there is significant settlement influenced by stratum loss due to smaller tunnel flotation, with greater settlement occurring in the upper part. However, at approximately 45 m into both sections, they enter a deformation stability zone showing significant correlation in longitudinal deformation. Through comparison and verification of on-site experiments and theoretical model analysis, we preliminarily elucidate the feasibility of this innovative cumulative flotation theoretical calculation method which provides an important theoretical basis for assessing segment flotation issues in subsequent tunnel shield construction evaluations.

Mechanistic insights into flotation separation of galena and chalcopyrite with polymaleic acid as Pb-affinity depressant: Experiments and MD simulations

Utilization of novel and highly efficient organic depressants in separation of various minerals in flotation is always a research hotspot. Herein, polymaleic acid (PMA) was utilized as an eco-friendly depressant with high affinity for lead to effectively separate chalcopyrite from galena via the flotation method. Flotation trials showed that PMA, added at low dosages, could considerably depress galena, while chalcopyrite was minimally affected, thereby achieving the separation of both minerals. Adsorption tests indicated that PMA strongly and selectively adsorbed on galena than on chalcopyrite, which significantly reduced the reactive activity of xanthate on galena. These findings were supported by contact angle measurements. Surface properties investigations also corroborated the stronger adsorption of PMA observed on galena. Molecular dynamic simulations suggested that the introduction of PMA into an aqueous system resulted in the accumulation of water molecules on galena. Simultaneously, the adsorption strength of PMA on galena increased during the interaction process between PMA and galena. These effects altered the surface characteristics of galena and increased its surface hydrophilicity. The present work provides mechanistic insights into the separation of metallic sulfide minerals in the presence of organic acid via the flotation method.

Evaluation of Lab-on-a-Disc Technique Performance for Soil-Transmitted Helminth Diagnosis in Animals in Tanzania.

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are caused by roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and thread worms. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, prevention, and control of these infections. This study evaluates a new diagnostic method called Single-image Parasite Quantification (SIMPAQ), which uses a lab-on-a-disc (LoD) technique to isolate STH eggs into a single imaging zone for digital analysis. The study evaluates the purification performance of the SIMPAQ technique for detecting STH eggs in animal samples. This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 237 pigs and 281 dogs in the Morogoro region in Tanzania. Faecal samples were collected and processed with the LoD technique, as well as flotation and McMaster (McM) methods for comparison purposes. The overall prevalence of STH infections was high as per the LoD technique (74%), followed by McM (65.44%) and flotation (65.04%). Moreover, the overall performance of the LoD technique, using McM as the gold standard, was 93.51% (sensitivity), 60.89% (specificity), 81.91% (PPV), and 83.21% (NPV). The LoD technique exhibited high prevalence, sensitivity, and NPV, which demonstrates its value for STH egg detection and its crucial role in the era of accurate STH diagnosis, promoting proper management of the infection.

Retrospective study on occurrence of bovine gastrointestinal parasitic infections in different regions of Haryana

The production and reproduction of livestock is hampered by the presence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infections. The effect of parasites ranges from anorexia, loss of body condition, anaemia, diarrhoea, protein losing enteropathy and loss of body condition apart from aforementioned direct and indirect effects on the animals leads to huge economic losses to livestock owners. In the present study, a total of 1669 faecal samples from cattle (n=550) and buffaloes (n=1119) with the history of diarrhoea or digestive disturbances were processed for presence of parasitic infections at different disease investigation laboratories (Ambala, Bhiwani, Mahendragarh and Rohtak) of Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana from July 2021 to June 2022. All the faecal samples were processed by floatation and sedimentation methods for detection of parasitic eggs and the results revealed that 29.6% cattle and 34.7% buffaloes were positive for GI parasites. Buxtonella sulcata (17.7%), Amphistomes (5.2%), and Strongyles (6.9%) were the major parasites observed in cattle and buffaloes. The occurrence of parasitic infection was significantly higher (P<0.05) in Rohtak followed by Bhiwani, Ambala and the least in Mahendragarh district of Haryana. However, no significant difference (P>0.05) between the cattle and buffaloes of geographical regions was observed. Further, analysis of month, season and age influences on prevalence of GI parasites were found to have no significant impact (P>0.05). Overall, this study helps to assess the parasitic load within the study region and helps to further devise control strategies against the parasites of bovines.

Gastrointestinal parasite infections and associated factors in fighting bulls over 7 years of monitoring in Southern Thailand.

Indigenous beef cattle engaged in bullfighting in Southern Thailand represent a distinctive and valuable breed. Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, which are recognized as important pathogens, have a negative impact on the overall health and physical performance of these fighting bulls. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of GI parasitic infections and identify factors associated with these infections in a fighting bull population in Southern Thailand. Fecal samples (n = 4,244) from fighting bulls were submitted to the Laboratory and Diagnostic Centre of the Teaching Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya. We examined the samples using simple flotation and centrifugal sedimentation methods. Individual animal profiles and demographic data were collected. The overall prevalence of GI parasitic infections was 93.2%. Nine GI parasites were identified as Paramphistome spp. [PP]. being the most prevalent (93.2%), and the highest annual prevalence occurred in 2019 (97.9%). The infection rates of various parasite species were significantly related to the years of study, geographic area, season, and age group (p < 0.05). The prevalence of parasitic infection was higher on the west coast (98.6%) than on the east coast (98.0%). PP, Eurytrema spp., Strongyles spp., and Buxtonella spp. infections differed significantly among the seven provinces of Southern Thailand (p < 0.05). The prevalence of GI parasitic infections was higher during the rainy season (98.5%) than during the summer (97.7%). Bulls aged 7.0-7.9 years and 8.0-8.9 years had the highest parasite infection rate (99.2%) compared with those aged 8.0-8.9. GI parasitic infections continue to be a significant health concern among fighting bulls in Southern Thailand. Regular epidemiological investigations are crucial for developing effective preventive programs and control strategies and providing basic knowledge for bull farmers.

Beneficiation process reengineering under the background of green development-- take the full utilization of a low-grade lead-zinc ore as an example

A zero-waste mine is an advanced mine development and resource utilization strategy that aims to encourage the reduction of mine solid waste at source and the utilization of all its components. A low-grade lead-zinc ore in Guangxi, China, contains valuable components like galena, sphalerite, pyrite, barite, etc. and the gangue mineral is primarily dolomite. This paper proposes a flow of “waste pre-discarding by dense medium cyclone - sequential priority flotation of lead and zinc recovery - flotation and gravity combined process for barite recovery” to realize full component utilization. In this technical approach, 38.81% of the waste rock that can be utilized as concrete aggregate was removed from the feed ore through pre-discarding prior to grinding, after that recovers lead and zinc by the sequential priority flotation method with yield of Pb concentrate and Zn concentrate at 7.61%. In order to more efficiently recover barite and pyrite from lead-zinc flotation tailings, the gravity equipment of reflux classifier (RC) was used, which obtained barite concentrate with a yield of 7.97% and pyrite concentrate with a yield of 2.28%. The remaining yield of 43.34% tailings can be used for filling after the recovery of barite concentrate. Utilizing waste rock, lead, zinc, barite, and other resources might help the mine achieve the dynamic balance of “mining-discarding-beneficiation-filling” and realize zero tailings discharge.

Helminths of captive and free-ranging populations of the mountain gazelle (Gazella gazella): Evidence from faecal examination.

Understanding parasite diversity in wild and captive animal populations has critical implications for both individual animal health and ecosystem dynamics in a broader sense. In mountain gazelles (Gazella gazella), the gastrointestinal helminth community is poorly understood, limiting our efforts in the conservation of this endangered bovid species. This species has only two remaining populations in the world, including the isolated northernmost population in Türkiye. To identify and compare the diversity and prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in captive and free-ranging populations of mountain gazelles in Hatay, Türkiye, and to assess potential zoonotic risks. In total, 105 fresh faecal samples, 45 individual samples and 60 faecal samples, representing 16 pools, from both captive and free-ranging populations were collected and analysed using Fulleborn flotation, Benedek sedimentation and Bearman-Wetzel methods faecal flotation methods, including the McMaster technique to determine the severity of infection. We detected 12 helminth taxa in our examination of faecal samples, including gastrointestinal nematodes, lungworms and trematodes. Parasites from the Trichostrongyloidea family demonstrated variable hatching stages and rates, potentially influenced by ambient conditions. We also detected one protozoan among the samples. Our results revealed a higher diversity of parasites in free-ranging populations compared to captive ones. This study underscores the necessity for regular parasitological surveillance in both captive and free-ranging wildlife populations for effective conservation management. It also contributes to the 'One Health' perspective by highlighting the potential zoonotic risks posed by parasites in wild ruminants. Our results have implications for the conservation and management of the mountain gazelle.

Fuel-use strategies at ultrahigh elevations on the Tibetan Plateau since the last deglaciation

Often referred to as the “Third Pole”, the Tibetan Plateau combines high elevation, extreme cold temperatures, hyper-aridity, and low oxygen levels. The strategy that early populations adopted to adapt to the harsh environment of the Tibetan Plateau has always attracted much attention. However, relevant studies have predominantly focused on the relatively lower elevation northeastern part of the Tibetan Plateau (<3000 m a.s.l.), with limited study in areas of ultrahigh elevation (>3500 m a.s.l.). This paper employed the flotation method and charcoal analysis of survey profiles from thirteen archaeological sites in the ultrahigh-elevation region of the middle Yarlung Zangbo River basin on the southern Tibetan Plateau, and finds that ancient people have been active in this region since the last deglaciation. The primary fuel sources used by ancient populations were small trees such as sea buckthorn (Hippophae gyantsensis) and shrubs such as juniper (Juniperus). The widespread use of undesirable wood (dwarf thorny shrub) like Sophora moorcroftiana and Caragana, along with the phenomenon of many sites relying on a single taxon, reflects the prevalent issue of fuel scarcity in this ultrahigh-elevation region. This might have been a driving factor for the early adoption of animal dung as a primary fuel source by ancient populations on the southern Tibetan Plateau.

Reinfection of farm dogs following praziquantel treatment in an endemic region of cystic echinococcosis in southeastern Iran.

Cystic Echinococcosis (CE) as a prevalent tapeworm infection of human and herbivorous animals worldwide, is caused by accidental ingestion of Echinococcus granulosus eggs excreted from infected dogs. CE is endemic in the Middle East and North Africa, and is considered as an important parasitic zoonosis in Iran. It is transmitted between dogs as the primary definitive host and different livestock species as the intermediate hosts. One of the most important measures for CE control is dog deworming with praziquantel. Due to the frequent reinfection of dogs, intensive deworming campaigns are critical for breaking CE transmission. Dog reinfection rate could be used as an indicator of the intensity of local CE transmission in endemic areas. However, our knowledge on the extent of reinfection in the endemic regions is poor. The purpose of the present study was to determine E. granulosus reinfection rate after praziquantel administration in a population of owned dogs in Kerman, Iran. A cohort of 150 owned dogs was recruited, with stool samples collected before praziquantel administration as a single oral dose of 5 mg/kg. The re-samplings of the owned dogs were performed at 2, 5 and 12 months following initial praziquantel administration. Stool samples were examined microscopically using Willis flotation method. Genomic DNA was extracted, and E. granulosus sensu lato-specific primers were used to PCR-amplify a 133-bp fragment of a repeat unit of the parasite genome. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier method to calculate cumulative survival rates, which is used here to capture reinfection dynamics, and monthly incidence of infection, capturing also the spatial distribution of disease risk. Results of survival analysis showed 8, 12 and 17% total reinfection rates in 2, 5 and 12 months following initial praziquantel administration, respectively, indicating that 92, 88 and 83% of the dogs had no detectable infection in that same time periods. The monthly incidence of reinfection in total owned dog population was estimated at 1.5% (95% CI 1.0-2.1). The results showed that the prevalence of echinococcosis in owned dogs, using copro-PCR assay was 42.6%. However, using conventional microscopy, 8% of fecal samples were positive for taeniid eggs. Our results suggest that regular treatment of the dog population with praziquantel every 60 days is ideal, however the frequency of dog dosing faces major logistics and cost challenges, threatening the sustainability of control programs. Understanding the nature and extent of dog reinfection in the endemic areas is essential for successful implementation of control programs and understanding patterns of CE transmission.

Substantial composition and technological treatment of potassium rocks of the Upper Pechora salt basin

The material composition of potassium and potassium-magnesium salts of the Upper Pechora salt-bearing basin was studied, their lithological variability was established over the area of productive strata, depending on the tectonic features of the foundation. The main mining and geological conditions that complicate the possibility of their extraction and the environmental conditions for organizing mining and processing production of mineral salts were established. The basic physical and technological properties of sylvinite and carnallite rocks mined by the mine method were studied for their enrichment by halurgical and flotation methods. The objectives of the work were: determining the material composition, studying textural and structural features and assessing the technological processing of potassium rocks in the Upper Pechora salt-bearing basin. When solving the problems, the following methods were used: a study of the textural and structural features of sylvinites using the petrographic method; the chemical composition of samples and solutions was analyzed by AES spectrometry; the mineral composition of the water-insoluble residue is determined by X-ray quantitative phase analysis.

Occurrence of Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Selected Waste Dumpsites in OtuokeCommunity, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are global health concerns, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions with poor sanitation. Waste dumpsites contribute to STH transmission, polluting soil, groundwater, and air quality in any location where they are situated. This study was carried out to investigate the occurrence of soil-transmitted helminths in selected waste dumpsites in the Otuoke community, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. Methods: 46 soil samples were randomly collected from different dumpsites and analyzed using Zinc sulphate floatation, Baermann technique and concentration method. Eggs and larvae of parasites present were identified morphologically by microscopic examination under x4 and x 10 objective lenses using identification keys. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 22 was used to analyze the data at 0.05 significant levels. Results: The overall rate of contamination was 28.3%. Eggs and larvae of three soil-transmitted helminths were recovered from the soil samples. The species of soil-transmitted helminths encountered in the study were Ascaris spp. 4(8.6%), Hookworm specie 5(10.9%) and Strongyloides spp. 15(32.6%). The most prevalent soil-transmitted helminth recorded in this study was the larvae of Strongyloides spp. Nevertheless, variations in the distribution of soil-transmitted helminths across locations varied significantly (P = 0.035; P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The findings suggest a need for a strategic intervention to improve sanitary status precisely in the locations where parasitic contaminations were present, whereas continuous monitoring and preventive measures should be implemented in the locations with no parasitic contamination to prevent the emergence of soil-transmitted helminths infection.