bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective pain management as part of palliative care for persons living with HIV/AIDS in a developing country: a qualitative study
Authors: Mojapelo Tshepiso Daisy , Usher Kim , Mills Jane
Published: April 2016

Aim and objectives

The aim of this research was to explore and understand nurses’ experiences of managing pain for persons living with human immune virus/ acquired immune deficiency syndrome receiving palliative care at home in Botswana.

Background

Community palliative and hospice care in Africa and Botswana were developed for persons with end‐stage acquired immune deficiency syndrome and other terminal illnesses being cared for at home. As antiretro viral therapies extend the lives of persons living with human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency syndromes, there is an increase in the chronic conditions associated with human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Despite a strong demand for care of persons living with human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency syndromes and other chronic illnesses, little is known about Botswanan community nurses’ capacity to manage community‐based end‐of‐life care for persons living with human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency syndromes.

Design

A qualitative study approach guided by van Manen's interpretive analysis was undertaken.

Methods

Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews that were audio‐recorded, transcribed and analysed using qualitative interpretive analysis. Thirteen nurses from 12 health districts in Botswana were recruited to the study using purposeful sampling.

Results

Participants identified that pain management was a significant issue. A lack of nurses’ ability to advocate effectively for patients because of a lack of relevant skills and knowledge and poor availability of appropriate analgesics was a limiting factor along with doctors’ reluctance to prescribe opioids to effectively manage pain.

Conclusion

Lack of resources coupled with lack of training for nurses has a negative impact on palliative care and the delivery of care services to persons living with human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency syndromes in Botswana.

Relevance to clinical practice

Being attentive and listening to the nurses’ voices in the provision of palliative care at home is an essential element in identifying the challenges they encounter. Lack of adequate palliative care training and a chronic shortage of resources have serious implications for the delivery of home‐based palliative care in Botswana.
The Optimal Size of Hedge Funds: Conflict between Investors and Fund Managers
Authors: YIN CHENGDONG
Published: April 2016

This study examines whether the standard compensation contract in the hedge fund industry aligns managers’ incentives with investors’ interests. I show empirically that managers’ compensation increases when fund assets grow, even when diseconomies of scale in fund performance exist. Thus, managers’ compensation is maximized at a much larger fund size than is optimal for fund performance. However, to avoid capital outflows, managers are also motivated to restrict fund growth to maintain style‐average performance. Similarly, fund management firms have incentives to collect more capital for all funds under management, including their flagship funds, even at the expense of fund performance.
Seatbelt use and seat preference among pregnant women in Sapporo, Japan, in 2013
Authors: Morikawa Mamoru , Yamada Takashi , Kato‐Hirayama Emi , Nishikawa Akira , Watari Michiko , Maeda Nobuhiko , Kogo Hiromasa , Minakami Hisanori
Published: April 2016

Aim

This study was performed to determine the rate of pregnant occupants in motor vehicle accidents (MVA) and the frequency of seatbelt use in pregnancy in Japan.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted at seven centers located in Sapporo, targeting all 3952 women in gestational weeks 35–37 during the study period between June 2013 and January 2014. Information was collected on parity, driver's license, seatbelt use, seat preference, carrying Mother and Child Health Handbook when going out, and experience of occupant MVA during current pregnancy. Women who reported always using a seatbelt were classified as always seatbelt users (ASU).

Results

A total of 2420 women who were given questionnaires provided responses (response rate, 61%). Seventy women (2.9%) reported having experienced an occupant MVA during the current pregnancy. MVA rate was significantly lower for ASU than non‐ASU (2.6% [55/2097] vs 4.6% [15/323], respectively, P < 0.0001), and for ASU women preferring the rear seat than for other women (1.3% [6/451] vs 3.3% [64/1969], respectively, P = 0.0282). MVA rate tended to be lower for women preferring the rear seat than the front seat (1.7% [10/575] vs 3.3% [60/1845], respectively, P = 0.0637). The number of ASU, 94% (2286/2420) before pregnancy, decreased significantly to 87% (2097/2420) after the current pregnancy (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The careful attitude of pregnant women toward driving safety may be associated with reduced risk of MVA in pregnancy. There is a need for an intensified campaign to promote seatbelt use among pregnant women.
Sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation of the spleen during pregnancy: Diagnostic challenges and clinical management
Authors: Corrado Giacomo , Tabanelli Valentina , Biffi Roberto , Petralia Giuseppe , Tinelli Andrea , Peccatori Fedro A
Published: April 2016

We report the first case of sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation (SANT) of the spleen diagnosed during pregnancy, discussing differential diagnosis, immunohistochemical profile and treatment. A G2P1 37‐year‐old woman presented during the 19th week of gestation because of pruritus at lower limbs. To exclude cholestasis, an abdominal ultrasound and whole body magnetic resonance were performed and a single solid lesion with intrinsic vascularization was identified. Therefore, at 22 weeks gestation, after normal fetal assessment, the patient was referred for a splenectomy. No further treatment was suggested and the patient gave birth at 42 weeks gestation with a spontaneous delivery. Distinguishing SANT from other vascular neoplasms of the spleen during pregnancy is a difficult task. Surgical excision should be performed to exclude malignancy and to resolve symptoms, if present.
Ultrasound‐guided aspiration of hydrosalpinx occurring during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation could improve clinical outcome of in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer
Authors: Zhou Yun , Jiang Hong , Zhang Wen‐xiang , Ni Feng , Wang Xue‐mei , Song Xiao‐min
Published: April 2016

Aim

To investigate whether aspiration of hydrosalpinx during oocyte retrieval could improve the clinical outcome of in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer (IVF‐ET).

Methods

The clinical data of 598 IVF‐ET cycles with tubal factor infertility at Reproductive Medical Center, 105 Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Anhui, China, between March 2011 and July 2015 were analyzed in this retrospective study. Among them, 71 cycles with unilateral or bilateral hydrosalpinx confirmed on both hysterosalpingography (HSG) and ultrasonography before controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) were assigned to group A. A total of 51 cycles with unilateral or bilateral hydrosalpinx occurring during COH and confirmed on ultrasonography were assigned to group B. In both group A and group B, ultrasound‐guided hydrosalpinx aspiration was performed in all patients when oocyte retrieval was finished. A further 35 cycles with unilateral or bilateral hydrosalpinx during COH received no intervention and were assigned to group C. A total of 441 cycles without hydrosalpinx on HSG or on ultrasonography before or during COH served as the control (group D). The IVF‐ET outcomes of the four groups were analyzed and compared.

Results

The embryo implantation rate and clinical pregnancy rate in group A and group C were significantly lower than those in group B and group D. The ongoing pregnancy rate in group A was significantly lower than that in group B and group D, and the ongoing pregnancy rate in group C was significantly lower than that in group D.

Conclusion

Aspiration of hydrosalpinx occurring during COH could significantly improve the clinical outcomes of IVF‐ET, but not for the hydrosalpinx occurring before COH.
Timing of elective cesarean delivery at term and its impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes among Thai and other Southeast Asian pregnant women
Authors: Phaloprakarn Chadakarn , Tangjitgamol Siriwan , Manusirivithaya Sumonmal
Published: April 2016

Aim

The impact of timing of elective cesarean delivery (CD) at term on maternal and neonatal outcomes among Thai and other Southeast Asian pregnancies was investigated. The rate of spontaneous labor before the scheduled CD, as well as maternal characteristics predicting spontaneous labor, was also evaluated.

Methods

Data on maternal and neonatal outcomes of 1221 singleton pregnancies scheduled for either an elective repeat CD or an elective primary CD at 37–40 weeks of gestation were studied. The association between maternal characteristics and the risk of spontaneous labor was evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

There were no significant differences in severe maternal complications between performing an elective CD at 39 weeks and at the other gestational ages. Severe neonatal complications were significantly decreased when a CD was performed electively from 38 weeks onwards. A total of 503 women (41.2 %) went into spontaneous labor before the scheduled CD. Using 39 weeks as the reference group, scheduling a CD at 37 or 38 weeks decreased the risk of spontaneous labor (6.67‐fold and 4.55‐fold, respectively) while scheduling a CD at 40 weeks had a 2.54‐fold increased risk. A history of previous CD and teenage pregnancy were also predictors of spontaneous labor; adjusted odds ratios were 14.27 and 3.93, respectively.

Conclusion

The timing of elective CD at term had impacts on pregnancy outcomes among Thai and other Southeast Asian women. Gestational age at scheduled CD, a previous CD and teenage pregnancy were predictors of spontaneous labor.
White Matter Diffusion Abnormalities in Carotid Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Baradaran Hediyeh , Mtui Edward E. , Richardson Joshua E. , Delgado Diana , Dunning Allison , Marshall Randolph S. , Sanelli Pina C. , Gupta Ajay
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND & PURPOSE

Abnormalities in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fractional anisotropy (FA), and mean diffusivity (MD) values can be used to assess microstructural damage to white matter tracts and could represent a quantitative marker of chronic ischemia and thereby potentially serve as a stroke risk factor or a measure of existing subclinical ischemic disease burden. We performed a systematic review and 3 separate meta‐analyses to evaluate the association between unilateral carotid steno‐occlusion and ipsilateral ADC, FA, or MD abnormality.

MATERIALS & METHODS

A comprehensive literature search evaluating the association of carotid disease and quantitative white matter diffusion imaging was performed. The included studies examined patients for ADC, FA, and MD values ipsilateral and contralateral to the site of carotid artery disease. Three meta‐analyses using standardized mean differences with assessment of study heterogeneity were performed.

RESULTS

Of the 2,920 manuscripts screened, 6 met eligibility for meta‐analysis. Of the included manuscripts, 2 studied ADC values, 6 studied FA values, and 2 studied MD values. Our 3 meta‐analyses showed standardized mean difference for ADC, FA, and MD values between cerebral hemispheres ipsilateral and contralateral to carotid artery disease site as 1.13 (95% CI: .79‐1.47, P < .001), −.42 (95% CI: −.62 to −.21, P < .001), and .23 (95% CI: −.32 to −.77, P = .41), respectively. Measures of heterogeneity showed mild heterogeneity in the 3 meta‐analyses.

CONCLUSION

Carotid artery disease is associated with significant ADC and FA value changes, suggesting that carotid disease is associated with quantifiable white matter microstructural damage.
Thermal Analysis of Dental Implants in Mandibular Premolar Region: 3D FEM Study
Authors: Rabbani Arshad Somayye , Zoljanahi Oskui Iman , Hashemi Ata
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The distribution of temperature in a dental implant following hot food and beverage consumption is essential for evaluating the hazard this process may have on bone health. The purpose of this study was to predict the temperature distribution in the dental implant with/without a crown and the bone crest in contact with it using the finite element method.

Materials and Methods

A 3D model of the implant and the mandible was prepared by using computer‐aided design software. Implants were investigated in three cases: without crown (BHI), with ceramic crown (MHIc), and with zirconia crown (MHIz). Subsequently, temperature distribution was numerically determined along the implant system for two heat loadings.

Results

In loading type I, the maximum temperature of the surrounding bone at the cervical implant/bone interface was obtained in the BHI model (39.1°C), and the lowest was obtained in the MHIc model (37.6°C). The maximum temperature rise in loading type II also took place in the BHI model (41.7°C). Moreover, the BHI model showed a rapid rise to the maximum temperature followed by a fast recovery compared to its two counterparts (MHIc, MHIz). In both loading types, the maximum temperature at the first point of contact between the implant and bone, and apical implant/bone interface was slightly higher in the MHIz than that in the MHIc. The maximum temperature in all the models was higher when subjected to cyclic loading. The maximum temperatures reached in all the models were lower than threshold temperatures, so thermal loading alone does not harm the jawbone. Moreover, the BHI was more vulnerable than the MHIc and the MHIz.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that dental implants should be covered with crowns as soon as possible, and patients with dental implants should avoid consumption of hot food and beverages without allowing time for the heat to dissipate.
Effect of maternal canthaxanthin and 25‐hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation on the performance of ducklings under two different vitamin regimens
Authors: Ren Z. Z. , Jiang S. Z. , Zeng Q. F. , Ding X. M. , Bai S. P. , Wang J. P. , Luo Y. H. , Su Z. W. , Xuan Y. , Zhang K. Y.
Published: April 2016

This study investigated the effects of maternal canthaxanthin (CX, 6 mg/kg) and 25‐hydroxycholecalciferol (25‐OH‐D3, 0.069 mg/kg) supplementation on the performance of Cherry Valley ducklings under two different vitamin regimens. A total of 780 duck breeder females and 156 males were randomly allotted to two diets with or without the addition of the mixture of CX and 25‐OH‐D3 (CX+25‐OH‐D3) for 32 weeks. Ducklings (males and females separately) hatched from eggs laid at 24 weeks of the duck breeder trial were fed with a NRC vitamin regimen, and ducklings (males and females separately) hatched from eggs laid at 32 weeks of the duck breeder trial were fed with a HIGH vitamin regimen (had higher levels of all vitamins except biotin than NRC vitamin regimen), for 14 days. The results showed that, maternal CX+25‐OH‐D3 supplementation increased the shank pigmentation for 7‐days post hatch in ducklings under a NRC vitamin regimen, and for 14‐days post hatch in ducklings under a HIGH vitamin regimen. Growth performance, antioxidant status and serum phosphorus of ducklings under a NRC vitamin regimen were increased by maternal CX+25‐OH‐D3 supplementation; however, these positive effects were not observed in ducklings under a HIGH vitamin regimen. Males revealed increased growth performance in ducklings under both NRC and HIGH vitamin regimens. Sexual differences in shank pigmentation, antioxidant status, tibia strength and serum phosphorus were not consistent as they were dependent on maternal CX+25‐OH‐D3 status or dietary vitamin regimens. Data suggest that maternal CX+25‐OH‐D3 supplementation is important for starter ducklings under a NRC vitamin regimen, but not HIGH vitamin regimen.
Evidence that oxidative stress is higher in replacement gilts than in multiparous sows
Authors: Roy C. , Lavoie M. , Richard G. , Archambault A. , Lapointe J.
Published: April 2016

The recent success obtained in term of increasing the litter size of sows has not correlated with a reduction of replacement rate. There is thus an increased economic demand for gilts with optimal reproductive potential and longevity. Unfortunately, replacement gilts are known to be more susceptible to diseases and less productive than multiparous sows. Interestingly, reproductive performance, resistance to diseases and longevity could all be largely affected by oxidative stress. To investigate whether oxidative stress conditions could account for the poor longevity of gilts, three distinct groups of conventional Yorkshire × Landrace sows were formed based on their similar age and parity (gilts, second parity sows as well as fourth to fifth parity sows). All animals were slaughtered during the post‐ovulatory period, and blood as well as tissue samples were collected. Biomarkers of oxidative damage to proteins (carbonyls) and DNA (8‐OHdG) were analysed in samples. Specific mRNA expression of major antioxidants such as glutathione peroxidases 1, 3 and 4 (GPx1, GPx3, GPx4) as well as superoxide dismutases 1 and 2 (Sod1, Sod2) were monitored in liver and kidney samples by quantitative RT‐PCR. Specific enzymatic activities of both GPx and SOD were measured by spectrophotometric assays. The plasma concentration of protein carbonyls was significantly different between the three groups with the highest concentration being observed in gilts (p ≤ 0.001). The mRNA expression levels of GPx1 and GPx4 were also significantly increased in the liver of gilts when compared to multiparous sows (p ≤ 0.05). SOD2 enzymatic activity was found to be higher in the liver of gilts than multiparous sows (p ≤ 0.05). Taken together, these results indicate that replacement gilts sustain significantly higher oxidative conditions than multiparous sows. Current findings may contribute to the design of nutritional regimens that will increase the productivity of gilts by counteracting oxidative stress.
Acute phase response in lactating dairy cows during hyperinsulinemic hypoglycaemic and hyperinsulinemic euglycaemic clamps and after intramammaryLPSchallenge
Authors: De Matteis L. , Bertoni G. , Lombardelli R. , Wellnitz O. , Van Dorland H. A. , Vernay M. C. M. B. , Bruckmaier R. M. , Trevisi E.
Published: April 2016

The link between energy availability, turnover of energy substrates and the onset of inflammation in dairy cows is complex and poorly investigated. To clarify this, plasma inflammatory variables were measured in mid‐lactating dairy cows allocated to three groups: hyperinsulinemic hypoglycaemic clamp, induced by insulin infusion (HypoG,n = 5); hyperinsulinemic euglycaemic clamp, induced by insulin and glucose infusion (EuG;n = 6); control, receiving a saline solution infusion (NaCl;n = 6). At 48 h after the start of i.v. infusions, two udder quarters per cow were challenged with 200 μg ofE. colilipopolysaccharide (LPS). Individual blood samples were taken beforeclamps, before LPSchallenge (i.e. 48 h after clamps) and 6.5 h after. At 48 h, positive acute phase proteins (posAPP) did not differ among groups, whereas albumin and cholesterol (index of lipoproteins), negativeAPP(negAPP), were lower (p < 0.05) in EuG compared to NaCl and HypoG. The concentration ofIL‐6 was greater in EuG (p < 0.05) but only vs. HypoG. At 6.5 h followingLPSchallenge,IL‐6 increased in the NaCl and EuG clamps (p < 0.05), whileTNF‐αincreased (p < 0.05) in the EuG only. Among the posAPP, haptoglobin markedly increased in EuG (p < 0.05), but not in NaCl (p = 0.76) and in HypoG; ceruloplasmin tended to decline duringLPSchallenge, the reduction was significant when all animals were considered (p < 0.05). Conversely, all the negAPPshowed a marked reduction 6.5 h afterLPSchallenge in the three groups. In conclusion, EuG caused an inflammatory status after 48‐h infusion (i.e. decrease of negAPP) and induced a quicker acute phase response (e.g. marked rise ofTNF‐α,IL‐6) after the intramammaryLPSchallenge. These data suggest that the simultaneous high availability of glucose and insulin at the tissue‐level makes dairy cows more susceptible to inflammatory events. In contrast, HypoG seems to attenuate the inflammatory response.
Haematological and febrile response to Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide in 12‐week‐old cockerels of genetically diverse layer lines fed diets with increasing L‐arginine levels
Authors: Lieboldt M.‐A. , Frahm J. , Halle I. , Schrader L. , Weigend S. , Preisinger R. , Breves G. , Dänicke S.
Published: April 2016

Due to its decisive function in the avian metabolic, endocrine and immune system L‐arginine (Arg) is dietary indispensable for chickens. In 12‐week‐old cockerels of two high‐ and two low‐performing purebred layer lines, the effects of increasing dietary Arg on the haematological and febrile response were studied over 48 h after single lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection. The offered diets contained Arg equivalent to 70%, 100% and 200% of recommended supply. Pathophysiological alterations in weight gain, feed intake, body temperature and differential blood count were examined in comparison with their physiological initial values. Within the first 24 h after LPS injection, cockerels reduced feed intake and lost body weight subsequently. Thereby, low‐performing genotypes lost body weight to a lesser extent than high‐performing ones. The loss of body weight was further intensified by deficient dietary Arg. Within the following 24 h, cockerels recovered by improving feed intake and weight gain. Furthermore, LPS induced genotype‐specific fever response: both brown genotypes showed initial hypothermia followed by longer lasting moderate hyperthermia, whereas the white genotypes exhibited biphasic hyperthermia. Fever response was accompanied by significant changes in differential blood counts. Characterized by lymphopenia and heterophilia, a severe leucopenia was observed from 4 to 8 h after LPS injection and replaced by a marked leucocytosis with longer lasting monocytosis up to 48 h after LPS injection. Under given pathophysiological conditions, deficiently Arg‐supplied cockerels showed higher total leucocyte counts than adequately and excessively Arg‐supplied cockerels. However, deficient and surplus dietary Arg tended to cause higher ratios between heterophils and lymphocytes. To conclude, present results confirmed that LPS induced numerous immunological changes in 12‐week‐old cockerels and emphasized that chicken's genotype is a source of variation to be considered for immunological studies. Deficient dietary Arg intensified acute changes in differential blood counts and weight gain during LPS‐induced inflammation.
In vitro gas production of foliage from three browse tree species treated with different dose levels of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes
Authors: López D. , Vázquez‐Armijo J. F. , López‐Villalobos N. , Lee‐Rangel H. A. , Salem A. Z. M. , Borquez‐Gastelum J. L. , Domínguez‐Vara I. A. , Rojo‐Rubio R.
Published: April 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different dose levels of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE) on in vitro ruminal fermentation kinetics and energy utilization of foliages from three browse trees (Pithecellobium dulce, Heliocarpus velutinus and Guazuma ulmifolia). Mixture of EFE product was added to the leaves of the three browse tree species at three dose levels: 0 (control), 3.5 and 7.0 mg/g of DM. Chemical composition of the foliages, including plant secondary metabolites such as total phenolics (TP), saponins (SAP) and aqueous fraction (AF), was determined. In addition, in vitro assaying of ruminal gas production kinetics was determined for the three browse three foliages treated with EFE. P. dulce had the highest crude protein content (p < 0.05), whereas G. ulmifolia had the highest content of neutral detergent fibre and SAP (p < 0.05) and H. velutinus had the lowest content of TP (p < 0.05). The interaction between tree species and dose level of EFE was significant (p < 0.05) for gas production (GP) at 24 h of incubation, parameters b and c of the accumulated GP curve, short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) and metabolizable energy (ME). The lowest (p < 0.01) extent of accumulated GP as well as the b and c values occurred in G. ulmifolia at 0 mg EFE/g DM. P. dulce had the highest (p < 0.05) values for ME and SCFA at the highest dose of EFE. Tree species and dose level had significant (p < 0.05) effects on all parameters describing in vitro ruminal fermentation kinetics and energy utilization. Addition of EFE improved the fermentation kinetics of the browse species considered in this study.
Insoluble fibres, satiety and food intake in cats fed kibble diets
Authors: Loureiro B. A. , Sakomura N. K. , Vasconcellos R. S. , Sembenelli G. , Gomes M. O. S. , Monti M. , Malheiros E. B. , Kawauchi I. M. , Carciofi A. C.
Published: April 2016

Fibre is generally considered to dilute food energy, alter intestinal transit time and promote satiety; however, in cats, conflicting results have been found. In this study, two insoluble fibres were evaluated in four feline diets: control (no added fibre); diet with 10% sugar cane fibre; diet with 20% sugar cane fibre; and diet with 10% cellulose. The experiment was conducted with 32 cats, eight animals per diet, over 42 days: 1–7 for diet adaptation; 8–14 for total collection of faeces for digestibility; 15–17 for fresh faeces collection for fermentation products measurements; 18–20 for gastrointestinal transit time determination; 21 and 37 to evaluate the pattern of food intake; and 22 and 42 to assess satiety. Means were compared by analysis of variance and orthogonal contrasts, and the pattern of food intake was compared by repeated‐measures analysis of variance (p < 0.05). The cats exhibited increased food intake after fibre addition to the diets (p < 0.05), achieving similar energy consumption. Cellulose and the two levels of sugar cane fibre reduced nutrient availability and energy digestibility, but only sugar cane fibre reduced fat digestibility (p < 0.05). Faecal output and the number of defecations per day increased with fibre inclusion (p < 0.05). Gastrointestinal transit time did not change with sugar cane fibre inclusion, but it was reduced with cellulose addition (p = 0.032). The pattern of food intake did not change, but cats fed fibre‐supplemented diets exhibited greater consumption of a challenge meal, increasing energy intake (p < 0.01) when exposed to a palatable, energy‐dense food.
Study on some risk factors and effects of bovine ketosis on dairy cows from the Galicia region (Spain)
Authors: Viña C. , Fouz R. , Camino F. , Sanjuán M. L. , Yus E. , Diéguez F. J.
Published: April 2016

The study was designed to determine the relation between β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations in milk from dairy cows after calving and the length of the previous lactation, the dry period and the 305‐day normalized production, and to assess the influence of BHB concentrations on culling and test‐day milk productions and somatic cell counts (SCC) throughout the lactation that followed the BHB measurement. The data used in the study were obtained from 59 187 cows in the Galicia region (Spain). BHB determination was performed using Fourier‐transformed infrared spectrometry from the milk samples collected from each cow on the first post‐partum test day. For statistical analysis, the following methods were applied: (i) ordinal regression to assess the effect of the length of the previous lactation, the dry period and the 305‐day normalized milk production on milk BHB, (ii) a Cox model to estimate the influence of the BHB concentration on risk of culling (overall and for a variety of reasons) and (iii) linear regression to assess the link between BHB and the milk yield and SCC obtained from each of the tests day performed throughout lactation. The probability of having higher BHB concentrations increased when the length of the previous lactation (p = 0.006), the dry period (p = 0.003) and the 305‐day normalized milk yield (p = 0.005) increased. However, the slight increase observed (especially for the case of the dry period and the 305‐day milk yield) would not justify that measures be implemented to reduce these traits. Higher concentrations of BHB led to an increased risk of culling due to ‘death’ (p ≤ 0.001) and ‘urgent slaughter’ (p ≤ 0.002) (both causes of involuntary culling). It also led to a reduction in milk production (p < 0.001) and an increase in SCC (p < 0.001) in the post‐partum; from that moment onward (including peak lactation), there were no differences in those two parameters depending on the BHB levels.
Effects of Chinese herbal mixture on performance, egg quality and blood biochemical parameters of laying hens
Authors: Li X. L. , He W. L. , Wang Z. B. , Xu T. S.
Published: April 2016

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Chinese herbal mixture (CHM) in laying hen diets on performance, egg quality and egg nutrition components, as well as selected blood biochemical parameters. A total of 270 Lohmann Brown laying hens, 24 week of age, were randomly distributed into three dietary treatments and fed for 6 week. The CHM was used at the levels of 0%, 0.5% and 1.0% in the diets of the control and two treatment groups respectively. Each dietary treatment was divided into five replicates, comprising of 18 hens each. Hens were housed in a 3‐tier battery system. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Blood samples and eggs were collected at the end of the experiment. The results showed that dietary treatments did not affect egg weight, mortality, eggshell thickness, albumen height, Haugh units, eggshell‐breaking strength and egg‐shape index. Dietary supplementation of CHM significantly improved (p < 0.05) laying rate and the lowest feed conversion ratio were observed with 1.0% CHM supplementation diets. CHM supplementation decreased (p < 0.05) cracked‐egg rate, egg yolk cholesterol, blood serum levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and increased blood serum levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). No differences in serum total protein, serum albumen, serum glucose and aspartate amino transferase (AST) were observed in hens fed CHM. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with CHM improved egg production and egg quality and reduced serum cholesterol concentrations in laying hens. Dietary supplementation of 1.0% CHM in layer diets may be a feasible means of producing eggs with lower cholesterol and higher egg yolk phospholipid contents for health conscious consumers.
Comparison of feed intake, digestion and rumen function among domestic ruminant species grazing in upland vegetation communities
Authors: Ferreira L. M. M. , Hervás G. , Belenguer A. , Celaya R. , Rodrigues M. A. M. , García U. , Frutos P. , Osoro K.
Published: April 2016

This study aimed to compare feed intake, digestion, rumen fermentation parameters and bacterial community of 5 beef cows, 12 crossed ewes and 12 goats grazing together in spring–early summer on heather–gorse vegetation communities with an adjacent area of improved pasture. Organic matter intake (OMI) and digestibility (OMD) were estimated using alkane markers. Ruminal fluid samples were collected for measuring fermentation parameters, and studying the bacterial community using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP). Spot samples of urine were taken to determine purine derivative (PD) and creatinine concentrations to estimate microbial protein synthesis in the rumen. Herbaceous species were the main dietary component in all animal species. Cattle had higher (p < 0.05) daily OMI (g/kg LW0.75) and OMD, whereas sheep and goats showed similar values. The highest ammonia concentration was observed in sheep. Total VFA, acetate and butyrate concentrations were not influenced by animal species, while propionate concentrations in goats were 1.8 times lower (p < 0.05) than in sheep. Acetate:propionate ratio was greater (p < 0.05) in goats, whereas cattle excreted more allantoin (p < 0.05). Estimated supply of microbial N was higher in cows (p < 0.01), whereas the efficiency of microbial protein synthesis was lower (p < 0.01) in this animal species. Hierarchical clustering analysis indicated a clear effect of animal species on rumen bacterial structure. Differences among animal species were also observed in the relative frequency of several T‐RFs. Certain T‐RFs compatible with Lachnospiraceae, Proteobacteria and Clostridiales species were not found in goats, while these animals showed high relative frequencies of some fragments compatible with the Ruminococcaceae family that were not detected in sheep and cattle. Results suggest a close relationship between animals’ grazing behaviour and rumen bacterial structure and its function. Goats seem to show a greater specialization of their microbial populations to deal with the greater fibrous and tannin content of their diet.
Effect of dietary lignocellulose on ileal and total tract digestibility of fat and fatty acids in broiler chickens
Authors: Bogusławska‐Tryk M. , Piotrowska A. , Szymeczko R. , Burlikowska K.
Published: April 2016

The study was conducted to determine the effect of a lignocellulose supplemented diet on apparent ileal and total tract digestibility of fat and fatty acids (FA) in broiler chickens. A total of 48 21‐day‐old male Ross 308 chickens were divided into four treatment groups (n = 12) with six replicates per treatment. From 21 to 42 days of age, the broilers were fed experimental diets varied in the amount of lignocellulose: 0%, 0.25%, 0.5% and 1%. Total excreta were gathered during the last 3 days of the feeding trial and digesta was collected from the ileum at 42 days of the bird age. Digestibility was determined by the indicator method. The ether extract content in diet/digesta/excreta was determined by the gravimetric method, and fatty acid methyl esters were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Fat digestibility measured to the end of the small intestine and in the whole gastrointestinal tract in birds was high and exceeded 90% and 87% respectively. Addition of lignocellulose (1%) increased (p < 0.05) ileal fat digestibility but had no significant effect on total tract fat digestion. Absorption of total fatty acids (TFA) as well as myristic (C14:0), palmitoleic (C16:1) and α‐linolenic (C18:3n−3) acids, estimated by both methods, was significantly higher in birds fed the diets supplemented with lignocellulose, especially at a dose of 1%. Total tract absorption of some dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (C20:2, C20:4n−6) was significantly lower from diet supplemented with 0.5% and 0.25% lignocellulose. There was observed a decrease in apparent digestibility of fat and most examined fatty acids, when measured between terminal ileum and total gastrointestinal tract. The results suggest that lignocellulose can affect digestion and FA absorption in broilers but, as the effect of lignocellulose was not studied previously, further investigations are necessary to confirm the results of the present experiment.
Energy requirements of early‐weaned Dorper cross‐bred female lambs
Authors: Ma T. , Xu G.‐S. , Deng K.‐D. , Ji S.‐K. , Tu Y. , Zhang N.‐F. , Diao Q.‐Y.
Published: April 2016

The net and metabolizable energy (NE and ME) requirements of Dorper cross‐bred female lambs with BWs of 20–35 kg were assessed in a comparative slaughter trial. Thirty‐five Dorper × thin‐tailed Han cross‐bred female lambs weaned at ~50 days of age (20.3 ± 2.15 kg BW) were used. Seven randomly selected lambs were slaughtered at the start of the trial (baseline group). An intermediate group consisting of seven randomly selected lambs fed ad libitum was slaughtered when the lambs reached an average BW of 28.5 kg. The remaining 21 lambs were allotted randomly to three levels of dry matter intake: ad libitum or restricted to 70% or 40% of the ad libitum intake. All the lambs were slaughtered when the sheep fed ad libitum reached a BW of 35 kg. Total body energy, nitrogen, fat, ash and moisture content were determined. In a digestibility trial, an additional 15 Dorper × thin‐tailed Han cross‐bred female lambs (28.7 ± 1.75 kg BW) were housed in metabolism cages and used in a completely randomized design experiment to evaluate the ME value of the diet at the three feed intake levels. The maintenance requirements for NE and ME were 245.5 and 380.3 kJ/kg metabolic shrunk body weight (SBW0.75) respectively. The partial efficiency of energy use for maintenance was 0.645. The NE requirements for growth ranged from 1.18 to 5.18 MJ/d for the lambs gaining 100–350 g/d from 20 to 35 kg BW. Partial efficiency of ME for growth was 0.44. In conclusion, the current study suggests that the NE requirement for maintenance and growth of Dorper early‐weaned cross‐bred female lambs is lower than the current AFRC and NRC recommendations.
The use of inulin in poultry feeding: a review
Authors: Bucław M.
Published: April 2016

Since the European Union enforced the ban on antibiotic growth promoters in 2006, the research has been focused on natural feed additives which would have a proven positive impact on both production and animal health. Inulin is both the most commonly used and the most effective probiotic additive. The mechanism of inulin interactions with the avian body is complex, multidirectional and not fully understood. Despite a number of unresolved issues, many authors have demonstrated the positive impact of inulin on the host organism. Dietary supplementation of poultry feeding with inulin contributes to the modulation of intestinal microbiota through favouring a quick proliferation of beneficial Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microbes. There are indications that inulin‐provoked changes in the host gut microbiota in poultry may alter the structure and histomorphology of the intestinal mucosa and improve its absorption capacity in poultry. It has also been demonstrated that inulin may affect the immune system and the systemic metabolism of minerals and lipids. The reports on inulin effects on the body and performance of poultry are often contradictory, as the effectiveness of this prebiotic is strongly dependent on the type and dose used, and the duration of its administration.
Study on cortisol, cortisone and prednisolone presence in urine of Chianina cattle breed
Authors: Chiesa L. , Pavone S. , Pasquale E. , Pavlovic R. , Panseri S. , Valiani A. , Arioli F. , Manuali E.
Published: April 2016

The Chianina, one of the oldest and most important cattle breeds of Italy, is now reared all over the world. The Chianina has been known and appreciated since ancient times because, from a nutritional point of view, its meat has no proper rivals. To date, studies have been performed to evaluate the genetic profile of the breed, but knowledge about the chemical profile is generally lacking. Due to the increased interest from farmers regarding breeding of the Chianina, this study proposes a preliminary evaluation of main endogenous urinary corticosteroids (cortisol and cortisone) and most commonly used synthetic one (dexamethasone). Moreover, after recent findings regarding the presence of endogenous prednisolone in the urine of more popular breeds, particular attention was given to analysis of the presence of prednisolone and prednisone, as well. For this aim, the urine samples of 12 young cows and 30 young bulls was collected at the farms and analysed using a fit‐for‐purpose LC‐MS/MS method. The preliminary results of this study show that prednisolone was found only in Chianina females (3 out of 12). Cortisol and cortisone were found at concentrations that showed a high inter‐individual variability, and that were higher in female urine compared to that of males.
Validity and reliability of the Neonatal Discharge Assessment Tool
Authors: Aykanat Girgin Burcu , Cimete Güler
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To investigate the reliability and validity of the Neonatal Discharge Assessment Tool (N‐DAT) designed to assess risk factors related to infants’ and parents’ readiness for discharge to home.

Design and Methods

The sample was composed of 238 high‐risk preterm infants, born at gestational age of 24 to 37 weeks, and their parents. High scores on the N‐DAT indicated higher risk for discharge of preterm infants and their parents. Psychometric analyses of the N‐DAT included content validity, internal consistency reliability, and construct validity.

Results

Content validity of the N‐DAT items was supported by experts (content validity index = .98). Internal consistency reliability was supported by a Cronbach's alpha for the total instrument of .94. N‐DAT total and subscale score correlations ranged from .42 to .89. Known‐groups analysis indicated that infants born at <31 weeks’ gestation and infants who were rehospitalized during 8 weeks after discharge had significantly higher N‐DAT total and subscale scores than infants born at ≥31 weeks or not rehospitalized. Also, mothers who reported experiencing problems with infant care at home had significantly higher N‐DAT Competencies subscale scores than mothers who did not report problems.

Practice Implications

The N‐DAT is a reliable and valid instrument to evaluate the risks related to discharge of preterm infants so that nurses can provide parents with the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources they need prior to discharge.
Hispanic parents’ perceptions of their preschool children's weight status
Authors: Gauthier Kristine I. , Gance‐Cleveland Bonnie
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of Hispanic parents’ perceptions of their preschool children's weight status.

Design and Methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive design with Hispanic parent–child dyads (n = 83) from a Head Start setting was used to compare parents’ perceptions of their children's weight status with their 2‐ to 5‐year‐old children's body mass index (BMI) and weight categories. Methods included a word choice from five response options, and varying body size silhouettes presented in a linear fashion and a random circular pattern. Parents’ perceptions were compared with the children's BMI, and in relationship to parents’ demographic characteristics and BMI.

Results

Approximately half of parents underestimated their child's weight status, and overweight/obese parents tended to underestimate their overweight/obese children's weight status.

Practice Implications

Eliciting parent perception of their child's weight is one way providers can engage in obesity prevention dialogue.
Comparing an exotic shrub's impact with that of a native life form analogue: Baccharis halimifolia vs Tamarix gallica in Mediterranean salt marsh communities
Authors: Fried Guillaume , Panetta F. Dane
Published: April 2016

Questions

To what extent may impact vary according to the invaded community, region or sites? Do impact thresholds exist, above which native species richness and/or cover declines rapidly? Does impact following invasion by the exotic shrub Baccharis halimifolia differ from that of a native shrub (Tamarix gallica) during natural successions?

Location

Mediterranean coast, SE France.

Methods

Vegetation was sampled on 120 4‐m² quadrats, half of which were in areas invaded by B. halimifolia and the other half in nearby non‐invaded areas, in two distinct community types nested in three sites in each of two regions. Mixed models were built to explain variations in impacts on native vegetation according to community types, sites and regions. Next, 85 additional plots variously invaded by B. halimifolia were used to assess the nature of the relationships between B. halimifolia cover and impact in Juncus communities. Linear regressions were compared to polynomial regressions, and when relevant, regression trees were built to identify threshold values. Finally, we compared the vegetation from 90 plots either dominated by B. halimifolia, by T. gallica (a native shrub) or without a shrub layer (control) using dissimilarity indices in wet meadows.

Results

The magnitude of B. halimifolia impacts depended mainly on community type, with no differences between regions. Community structure (species richness, Shannon's diversity) declined linearly with increasing cover of B. halimifolia, with the most rapid decline in annual species. Native species cover fitted better with a cubic regression, with an impact threshold of around 86% cover of B. halimifolia. Impact of B. halimifolia on community diversity was higher than that of the native shrub T. gallica. While the magnitude of species composition changes was comparable for both shrubs, the higher nestedness component of dissimilarity found for B. halimifolia may indicate a higher short‐term impact.

Conclusion

Improved understanding of the impacts of exotic shrubs on community structure and composition can be gained via comparisons with the impacts caused by native shrubs. Higher impacts of the exotic B. halimifolia on Mediterranean salt marsh vegetation are likely explained by a denser canopy, shorter juvenile period and more frequent recruitment.
The impact of non‐reproductive plant species on assessments of community structure and species co‐occurrence patterns
Authors: Schamp Brandon S. , Aarssen Lonnie W. , Piggott Gillian S.J. , Dante Sneha K.
Published: April 2016

Aims

Studies of community structure and co‐occurrence patterns rely on the premise that community data reflect where species successfully grow and which species they grow with. However, plant censuses generally do not distinguish between species with reproductive individuals and those only represented by non‐reproductive individuals. We tested whether inclusion of non‐reproductive species, which may not reflect success in that location, significantly impacts evaluations of community structure and co‐occurrence.

Location

Queen's University Biological Station, Ontario, Canada, old‐field plant communities.

Methods

We quantified the impact of non‐reproductive species in two plant communities by comparing community structure and co‐occurrence patterns when non‐reproductive species were included or excluded.

Results

Including non‐reproductive species significantly increased plot‐level species richness in both communities (54% and 13% increases), altered species evenness in both communities, significantly impacted beta‐diversity among plots in one site, and disproportionately impacted assessments of diversity in species‐rich plots. Excluding non‐reproductive species resulted in reduced negative co‐occurrence patterns in both communities, with a substantially larger impact in one community. In that community, the impact of non‐reproductive species was even more pronounced when abundance data were used in analysis, and when pair‐wise co‐occurrence patterns were assessed. Additionally, including non‐reproductive species drastically decreased the number of species pairs with perfect negative co‐occurrence across sites, indicating that these species can add ‘noise’ to co‐occurrence patterns. We examined possible explanations for the presence of non‐reproductive species. In one community, non‐reproductive species were 22 times less abundant (per plot) than reproductive species within plots, although they were not rare overall. Differences in the number of non‐reproductive species per plot across our focal communities were not clearly driven by differences in clonality, stress from extreme weather or low N. While these patterns are consistent with the interpretation that non‐reproductive species are present due to mass effects, this possibility requires further research.

Conclusions

Including non‐reproductive plant species in censuses can significantly impact assessments of community structure and species co‐occurrence. The divergent impact of their inclusion on our two communities highlights the possibility that excluding non‐reproductive species from surveys may remove noise from community data and clarify theories of plant species co‐existence.