bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Changes of Ocular Biological Parameters in Rhesus Monkeys After Scleral Cross-linking With Riboflavin/Ultraviolet-A
Authors: Ou-yang Bo-wen , Sun Ming-Shen , Wang Meng-Meng , Zhang Feng-Ju
Published: May 2019

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the ocular biological parameter difference between scleral corneal cross-linking (CXL) and control eyes in rhesus monkeys by using a rebound tonometer, A-scan ultrasonography, retinoscopy, optical coherence tomography, and electroretinography (ERG).

METHODS:

Six rhesus monkeys were used in this study, with ages ranging from 3 to 3.5 years. One eye of each rhesus monkey was randomly selected to receive riboflavin/ultraviolet-A CXL in the temporal quadrant of the equatorial sclera and the contralateral eye served as an intra-individual control. The ocular biological parameters were repeatedly measured in both eyes of the monkeys before scleral CXL and 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS:

The intraocular pressure, refractive state, total axial length, and axial dimensions of the anterior chamber, crystalline lens, vitreous chamber, and central corneal thickness were not statistically significantly different between the control and cross-linked specimens at the different time periods (each
P
> .05). No obvious changes in the waveform of the standard full-field ERGs were observed in the control and cross-linked specimens. There were no statistically significant differences between the control and cross-linked specimens in the dark-adapted 0.01 ERG, the dark-adapted 3.0 ERG, the light-adapted 3.0 ERG, and the amplitudes of the a-wave and b-wave for the different time periods (each
P
>.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The scleral CXL laboratory technique might not significantly affect the ocular biological parameters of the rhesus monkey in the early postoperative period, but long-term effects and histological changes still need to be investigated further.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2019;35(5):333–339.]
The long run health consequences of rural‐urban migration
Authors: Johnson Janna E. , Taylor Evan J.
Published: May 2019

Rural‐urban migration is an integral part of the structural transformation as societies move from a traditional agricultural economy to a modern economy. This process has many potential consequences for migrants. Our study focuses on the lifetime health effects of the large mid‐20th century migration out of rural U.S. Northern Great Plains states, primarily to urban locations in the West and Midwest. An analysis of marginal treatment effects (MTEs) shows that (a) migrants are positively selected, and (b) the causal impact of migration is decreased longevity. Our evidence suggests that elevated mortality among migrants is linked to increased smoking and alcohol consumption.
Origin of Iron Ore Nuggets (“Bohnerze”) through Weathering of Basalt as Documented by Pebbles from the Herbstlabyrinth, Breitscheid-Germany
Authors: Al-Malabeh Ahmad , Kempe Stephan
Published: May 2019

Namen te študije je bila raziskava izvora kep železa, ki so bile najdene v Herbstlabyrinthu pri Breitscheidu, severni Hessen/Nemčija. Vsega skupaj je bilo zbranih deset prodnikov. Petrografsko prodnike lahko razdelimo v tri skupine: precej svež bazalt, opazno ali popolnoma preperel bazalt (vsebuje železova zrna) in temen peščenjak. Železova zrna izvirajo iz procesa preperevanja (oksidacija in hidratacija) bazaltnih prodnikov. Geokemična študija je pokazala, da so izvorni prodniki bazalta alkalnega tipa in da pripadajo Na-seriji. Magma, iz katere so nastali, je bila nerazvita in je izvirala iz peridotitnega plašča.   This study was conducted to investigate the origin of the iron nuggets that have been found in the Herbstlabyrinth at Breitscheid, northern Hessen/Germany. A total of ten pebbles were collected. Petrographically, the pebbles can be divided into three groups: rather fresh basalts, markedly or totally altered basalt (including the iron nuggets) and a dark sandstone. The iron nuggets originate through a progressing alteration (oxidation and hydration) of the basaltic pebbles. The geochemical study shows that the original fresh basaltic pebbles are of alkali type and belong to the Na-series. The magma that gave rise to them was primitive and originated in peridotite mantle source.
TiO2 NANOTUBES-POLYDOPAMINE-SILVER COMPOSITES FOR LONG-TERM ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES: PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: Mirjalili Abolfazl , Zamanian Ali , Hadavi Mohamad Mahdi
Published: May 2019

In this study, antibacterial activity and long-lasting release of silver for clinical applications were achieved by utilizing silver nanoparticles on the Titania nanotubes (TNTs) through in situ polymerization of polydopamine (PDA). TNTs were synthesized with the hydrothermal process from Titania nanoparticles. Then the surface modification of TNTs was accomplished by in situ polymerization of PDA and silver ions were reduced on the PDA surface. The feature of obtained samples was characterized using transmission electron microscope (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The results showed that PDA layer formed on the synthesized anatase TNTs surface. This used as reduction agent for silver ions as well as an adhesive layer to tethering the silver nanoparticles on TNTs surface. AAS results indicated that silver ions reduction to silver nanoparticles on the TNTs surface increased from 3.1 wt.% to 9.6 wt.% in presence of PDA. Also, the results of silver release revealed that PDA worked as an adhesive layer by chelating silver nanoparticles on TNTs and slowing silver ions release rate which implying the possible long-term antibacterial activity of PDA coated TNTs. Besides that, TNTs showed 33% antibacterial activity which is half than silver loaded TNTs-PDA samples. This confirms that PDA have extraordinary effect on the antibacterial activity. This work offers a facile process for the preparation of long-lasting silver based antibacterial activity and facilitates their clinical application in the modern biomedical fields.
An Unexpected Surprise: Delayed Gastric Outlet Obstruction from Coin Ingestion
Authors: Then Eric Omar , John Febin , Catalano Carmine , Lopez Michell , Gaduputi Vinaya
Published: May 2019

Gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is characterized by postprandial vomiting due to mechanical obstruction. Rarely it can occur due to ingestion of a foreign body. Most cases of foreign body ingestion are benign, with passage of the ingested object into the stool with no clinical sequelae. We describe a case of an 80-year-old woman with GOO occurring secondary to ingestion of two coins (American quarters). Rarely will such a small object cause a true gastric outlet obstruction. To our knowledge this makes the second such case reported in the medical literature.
The use of arnica tablets by runners in the 90 kilometer Comrades Marathon
Authors: Bauer Cynthia M. , Lambert Michael I. , Weight Lindsay M.
Published: May 2019

Background: Arnica is a homeopathic remedy which is sometimes used before and after long distance running in the belief that it reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). However, the specific details of its use among athletes is not known. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine the usage patterns of Arnica tablets amongst participants in the 1999 ninety-kilometer Comrades ultra-marathon road race in South Africa.Methods: Every third runner registering for the race in Pietermaritzburg in the three-day (25 hour) pre-race registration period was approached and asked to complete a questionnaire on their use of Arnica tablets (n - 785; males = 85% and females = 15%).Results: Ten percent of the total study population who agreed to participate in the study (n = 730) had used Arnica tablets in the previous six months. The average reported dose by these athletes was seven tablets per day. The most common reason for using Arnica tablets was to decrease pain or stiffness after a race or training run. Only a small group (22%) rated the efficacy of Arnica tablets as “totally effective”, suggesting that a large number of users of Arnica did not rate the efficacy highly. There was a poor relationship between the perceived efficacy after ingesting Arnica tablets and the reported dosage (r = 0.28). The majority of the respondents (63%) believed that Arnica tablets contained anti-inflammatory agents.Conclusions: While 10% of the runners used Arnica, only one fifth of these runners rated the treatment as completely effective for the prevention of DOMS. Therefore education on the advantages and disadvantages of using these tablets has become important.
Awakening a sleeping giant
Authors: Eales C. J.
Published: May 2019

No abstract available
A centralidade do complexo-soja na economia brasileira e a manutenção da produção agrícola extravertida: análise da soja em Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Faccin Ana Carolina Torelli Marquezini , Castillo Ricardo
Published: May 2019

Neste artigo discutimos a dinâmica da produção de soja em Mato Grosso do Sul, que reproduz a dinâmica atual da economia nacional, pautada em produtos primários de grande expressão e importância econômica no mercado mundial, o que gera grande impacto no espaço produtivo dos países periféricos, ocasionando extrema especialização produtiva. Tal fenômeno, profundamente ligado à demanda internacional por commodities, foi acentuado, em particular, pela entrada da China na Organização Mundial do Comércio (OMC) em 2001 e pelos atrativos preços pagos pela soja e outros produtos de circulação mundial neste período. Tal movimento global influencia diretamente na organização do espaço dos países de economia periférica como o Brasil, instalando lógicas globais de produção e dinâmicas voltadas à exportação com poucas relações e obrigações com o lugar.
Panorama das atividades agropecuárias de exportação do Tocantis: soja e carne
Authors: Feitosa Cid Olival
Published: May 2019

O presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar um panorama das atividades agropecuárias de exportação do estado do Tocantins, especificamente, soja e carne. Para isto, foi realizada uma ampla revisão da literatura e o levantamento de dados secundários sobre as atividades citadas, a partir das informações constantes da Produção Agrícola Municipal, da Produção Pecuária Municipal e dos Censos Agropecuários, todos do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Conclui-se que a moderna agricultura de grãos e a pecuária de corte para exportação possuem significativa importância para a economia tocantinense, mas também contribuem para agravar alguns problemas econômicos e sociais, como a concentração fundiária, a degradação ambiental e a expulsão do meio rural de pequenos produtores e de populações tradicionais.
O BNDES e a sustentação recente do setor sucroenergético brasileiro (2002-2015)
Authors: Silva Laís Ribeiro , Vicente Pereira Mirlei Fachini
Published: May 2019

historicamente o Estado brasileiro sempre figurou como agente central para sustentação do setor sucroenergético (produção de cana-de-açúcar e seus derivados), acionando diferentes políticas e recursos em diversos períodos. Particularmente entre os anos 2000 e 2015, o BNDES (Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social) atuou de modo central para a sustentação do setor, através de financiamentos em diversas áreas essenciais à produção: infraestrutura, logística, capital de giro, pesquisa, plantio entre outros. Uma análise detalhada dos dados de financiamento do BNDES para o setor sucroenergético neste período permite compreender quais agentes foram beneficiados e quais implicações territoriais e políticas esse cenário apresenta. Nesse artigo espera-se demonstrar, de modo sistematizado, como se deu a atuação recente do BNDES e, deste modo, do próprio Estado brasileiro, para o setor sucroenergético e como tal situação revela as circunstâncias do uso do território no Brasil pelo referido setor.
A agricultura familiar no contexto do agronegócio no município de Canguçu, Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Mantelli Jussara , Da Silva Dutra Éder Jardel , Silva Konzgen Queli Rejane
Published: May 2019

O artigo trata da dicotomia entre agricultura familiar e agronegócio, mostrando a realidade do espaço agrário do município de Canguçu/RS. Para alcançar o entendimento desta questão foram analisados dados secundários e feitas observações diretas no campo, demonstrando que a presença do agronegócio se mescla com a diversificada produção orgânica em bases produtivas diferenciadas. Neste contexto, destacam-se as perspectivas e nuances da agricultura no que tange aos principais produtos agrícolas como o tabaco e a soja, que atingem a maior expressão em área no município, sem desconsiderar a produção orgânica que vem adquirindo importância não só na produção e comercialização, mas nas formas de organização dos produtores em associações.
A inserção do capital transnacional e a expropriação de recursos naturais locais: uma análise do agronegócio no sudoeste piauiense
Authors: Figueredo Elayne De Silva , Espindola Giovana Mira de , Silva Antonio Joaquim da , Pereira Márcia Leila De Castro
Published: May 2019

O atual movimento de aquisição de terras pelo capital transnacional em países ditos em desenvolvimento é tema que vem ganhando a atenção da comunidade científica, especialmente após a convergência da crise econômica de 2007/2008. Neste contexto, este artigo pretende discutir a apropriação de terras pelo agronegócio, tendo como exemplos axiomáticos o Brasil e, em especial, o sudoeste piauiense. Considerando o atual estágio da expansão da fronteira agrícola, caracterizada pela concentração fundiária e pelo controle de recursos naturais locais, destacamos o aparente avanço de tal movimento rumo ao semiárido, com o crescimento em número e área de estabelecimentos agropecuários em áreas próximas à transição dos biomas Cerrado e Caatinga.
O agro é tech, é pop, é tudo: o (des) velar dessa realidade
Authors: Ribeiro Cardoso Antônio Sidnei , Dias de Sousa Raimunda Aurea , Reis Leandro Cavalcanti
Published: May 2019

Atualmente, o Brasil é “vendido” por meio da propaganda - “Agro é Pop”, “Agro é tech”, “Agro é Tudo”, referindo-se a um país com diversidade na produção de alimentos. O setor do agronegócio se apresenta como símbolo de modernidade e eficiência, com domínio pleno de diferentes tecnologias. Com base nisso, o presente trabalho objetiva desvelar as contradições que se encontram veladas na palavra AGRO propagandeada como um negócio em que as grandes corporações, ao deterem o controle dos insumos, sementes e tecnologia utilizadas para um alcance multiescalar do produto produzido, disseminam a ideia de que é pop, ou seja, beneficia a todos. Assim, ele não pode ser pop, pois promove a concentração de terra, seguida da violência no campo; não pode ser tech, quando sua produção se sustenta no uso de agrotóxicos que, contraditoriamente, provoca doenças; não é tudo, uma vez que o alimento, condição básica de existência, é transformado em commodities e passa a ser concentrado por um pequeno número de empresas
N : P stoichiometry and habitat effects on Mediterranean savanna seasonal root dynamics
Authors: Nair Richard K. F. , Morris Kendalynn A. , Hertel Martin , Luo Yunpeng , Moreno Gerardo , Reichstein Markus , Schrumpf Marion , Migliavacca Mirco
Published: May 2019

Abstract. Mediterranean grasslands are highly seasonal and
co-limited by water and nutrients. In such systems, little is known about
root dynamics which may depend on individual plant properties and environment
as well as seasonal water shortages and site fertility. Patterns of root
biomass and activity are affected
by the presence of scattered trees, grazing, site management, and chronic nitrogen deposition, all of
which can affect nutrient ratios and potentially cause development of nitrogen : phosphorus (N : P) imbalances in ecosystem stoichiometry. In this study we combined observations from minirhizotrons with root
measurements from direct soil cores and ingrowth cores, along with measures
of above-ground biomass to investigate seasonal root dynamics and root : shoot
ratios in a Mediterranean tree–grass “savanna”. We investigated responses to
soil fertility, using nutrient manipulation (N∕NP addition) and spatial
microhabitat treatments between open-pasture and
microhabitats under the tree canopy.
Root dynamics over time were also compared with indices of above-ground growth drawn from proximal remote sensing. Results show distinct differences in root dynamics and biomass between
treatments and microhabitats. Root biomass was higher with N additions, but
did not differ from the control with NP additions in early spring. By the end
of the growing season root biomass had increased with NP in open pastures but
not higher than N added alone. In contrast, root length density (RLD) in
pastures responded stronger to the NP than N-only addition, while beneath
trees root biomass tended to be higher with only N. Even though root biomass
increased, the root : shoot ratio decreased under nutrient treatments. Timing of
root and shoot growth was reasonably well paired, although in autumn root
growth appeared to be substantially slower than “regreening” of the system.
We interpret these differences as a shift in community structure and/or root
traits under changing stoichiometry induced by the fertilization. We also
consider seasonal (phenology) differences in the strength and direction of
effects observed.
Calibration of hydrological models for ecologically-relevant streamflow predictions: a trade-off between performance and consistency
Authors: Hallouin Thibault , Bruen Michael , O'Loughlin Fiachra E.
Published: May 2019

Abstract. The ecological integrity of freshwater ecosystems is intimately linked to natural fluctuations in the river flow regime. Anthropogenic alterations in flow regimes threaten water security and freshwater biodiversity in many regions of the world. The impacts of climate change on the hydrological cycle change local flow regimes and thus impact on the ecological systems. In catchments with little human-induced hydro-morphological changes, existing hydrological models can be used to predict changes in local flow regime in order to assess whether its rivers remain a suitable living environment for endemic species. However, hydrological models are traditionally calibrated to give a good general fit between observed and simulated hydrographs, e.g., using an optimisation with an objective function such as the Nash-Sutcliffe, or the Kling–Gupta efficiencies. Much ecological research has shown that aquatic species respond to very specific characteristics of the hydrograph, whether magnitude, frequency, duration, timing, and rate of change of flow events. Since each community in a river may be particularly sensitive to a few very specific streamflow characteristics, alternative hydrological model calibration strategies are needed, focussing on good performance for those specific characteristics. This study investigates the performance of a set of specially developed, bespoke, objective functions made of combinations of specific streamflow characteristics relevant for fish and invertebrate communities. These are compared with the more traditional objective functions on a set of 33 Irish catchments with little human regulation. A split-sample test with a rolling-window procedure is applied to reduce the influence of variations between the calibration/evaluation periods on the conclusions. These bespoke objective functions are shown to be better suited to predict the targetted streamflow characteristics in terms of performance in evaluation; however, traditional objective functions yield more consistent behavioural parameter sets, indicating a trade-off between model performance and model consistency when predicting streamflow characteristics, especially when the number of target streamflow characteristics are low.
Temporal rainfall disaggregation using a micro-canonical cascade model: Possibilities to improve the autocorrelation
Authors: Müller-Thomy Hannes
Published: May 2019

Abstract. In urban hydrology rainfall time series of high resolution in time are crucial. Such time series with sufficient length can be generated through the disaggregation of daily data with a micro-canonical cascade model. A well-known problem of time series generated so is the underestimation of the autocorrelation. In this paper two cascade model modifications are analysed regarding their ability to improve the autocorrelation. Both modifications are based on a state-of-the-art reference cascade model. In the first modification, a position-dependency is introduced in the first disaggregation step. In the second modification the position of a wet time step is redefined in addition. Both modifications led to an improvement of the autocorrelation, especially the position redefinition. Simultaneously, two approaches are investigated to avoid the generation of time steps with too small rainfall intensities, the conservation of a minimum rainfall amount during the disaggregation process itself and the mimicry of a measurement device after the disaggregation process. The mimicry approach shows slight better results for the autocorrelation and hence was kept for a subsequent resampling investigation using Simulated Annealing. For the resampling, a special focus was given to the conservation of the extreme rainfall values. Therefore, a universal extreme event definition was introduced to define extreme events a priori without knowing their occurrence in time or magnitude. The resampling algorithm is capable of improving the autocorrelation, independent of the previously applied cascade model variant. Also, the improvement of the autocorrelation by the resampling was higher than by the choice of the cascade model modification. The best overall representation of the autocorrelation was achieved by method C in combination with the resampling algorithm. The study was carried out for 24 rain gauges in Lower Saxony, Germany.
ORIENTAÇÃO PROFISSIONAL E ALEITAMENTO MATERNO EXCLUSIVO: UM ESTUDO DE COORTE
Authors: Bauer Debora Fernanda Vicentini , Ferrari Rosângela Aparecida Pimenta , Cardelli Alexandrina Aparecida Maciel , Higarashi Ieda Harumi
Published: May 2019

Objetivo: analisar a orientação sobre amamentação durante a assistência gravídico-puerperal e o desfecho no aleitamento materno exclusivo.Método: estudo de coorte prospectivo, de julho de 2013 a fevereiro de 2015, em município da região norte do Paraná com 300 puérperas e respectivos filhos. Os dados foram analisados por frequência, razão de prevalência e regressão e regressão de Poisson considerando significância de 5% (p=0,05).Resultados: a orientação foi relatada em 52,3% dos pré-natais, 65,7% das salas de parto, 83% dos alojamentos conjuntos, 32% dos retornos puerperais e 38,6% das puericulturas. Apenas 22,3% mantiveram aleitamento materno exclusivo, média 3,44 meses (DP=2,1). A orientação na puericultura apresentou efeito protetor contra o desmame precoce (p=0,004), mas foi insuficiente nas diversas fases da assistência gravídico-puerperal.Conclusão: o estudo contribuiu para identificar que a orientação profissional para promoção do aleitamento materno exclusivo até o sexto mês de vida não atende às recomendações ministeriais para que se reduza o desmame precoce.
Interaction between sugarcane families and plant growth-promoting bacteria in two crop cycles
Authors: Lopes Valéria Rosa , Bespalhok Filho João Carlos , Figueiredo Guilherme Grodzki Oliveira , Oliveira Ricardo Augusto de , Daros Edelclaiton
Published: May 2019

The response of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) families to the inoculation with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) may show positive or negative interaction values depending on the plant genotype, allowing the selection of responsive genotypes to the association. Based on these precepts, this study aimed to evaluate the response of 27 sugarcane families treated with two PGPB-based inoculants in two sugarcane cycles: plant-cane and first ratoon. Four months after germination, 27 families from crosses between clones of sugarcane were: (T0) not inoculated; (T1) inoculated with Triazo, which consists of a mixture of the strains Abv5, Abv6, and Abv7 of Azospirillum brasilense; and (T2) inoculated with an inoculant called Mix, which contains five strains of PGPB (Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus Pal5, Azospirillum amazonense CBAmC, Burkholderia tropica Ppe8, Herbaspirillum rubrisubalbicans HCc103, and Herbaspirillum seropedicae HRC54). The productivity traits evaluated were the number of stalks, average height, stalk diameter, and Brix. The correlation values between the two cycles were 0.87 for the number of stalks, 0.70 for average height, 0.48 for stalk diameter, and 0.63 for Brix. Differences were observed between treatments for average height, stalk diameter, and Brix. Differences were also observed between families for all the studied traits. Brix was the only parameter that presented a significant interaction between family and inoculant. Different responses were observed between cycles for some families, showing that other factors can also influence the association.
Diversity of the edaphic macrofauna in areas managed under no-tillage for different periods
Authors: Ferreira Cláudia dos Reis , Guedes Jair do Nascimento , Rosset Jean Sérgio , Anjos Lúcia Helena Cunha dos , Pereira Marcos Gervasio
Published: May 2019

Agriculture can considerably change the composition and richness of the edaphic macrofauna, affecting the ecological and biological functions exerted by the fauna. This study was carried out in commercial production systems in the municipality of Guaíra, state of Paraná, Brazil. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of no-tillage systems (NTS) and seasonality on the diversity, richness, and composition of the edaphic macrofauna. Three areas managed under NTS for different periods 7 years (NTS-7), 14 years (NTS-14), and 23 years (NTS-23) under crop succession with soybean (summer) (aNTS7) and maize/wheat (winter) (NTS14 and NTS23) were evaluated, in addition to a native Atlantic Forest segment, which was used as a reference. Faunal samples were collected in the dry season (September 2013) and rainy season (February 2014). The edaphic macrofauna was evaluated using the method proposed by the Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility Program. Parametric statistics were applied, and the results were compared using Tukey’s test at a level of significance of 5%. Species density and total richness were usually higher in the NTS14 and NTS23 in the dry season. However, higher indexes of equability were not detected because of the dominance of groups Formicidae and Isoptera. The areas with the highest equability were the reference area in the dry season and NTS23 in the rainy season, corresponding to 0.87 and 0.61, respectively. These results indicate the higher faunal diversity in these areas, which reflects the greater stability of the ecosystem.
Microbiological quality of colonial cheese sold in Porto Alegre-RS
Authors: Ausani Thais de Campos , Lopes Graciela Volz , Costa Eduardo de Freitas , Corbellini Luís Gustavo , Cardoso Marisa
Published: May 2019

Colonial cheese is a traditional dairy product in southern Brazil and is commonly purchased by the citizens of Porto Alegre. However, there is still a lack of technical regulation of colonial cheese, and there is little information about the microbiological quality of this product at the retail level. Thus, the objectives of this study were to (i) evaluate compliance with the legal microbiological standards of colonial cheese sampled from street fairs and the central market of the city of Porto Alegre; (ii) statistically test the hypothesis of an association between noncompliance with the standards and local purchasing (street fairs or central market); (iii) estimate the number of Listeria spp. and Listeria monocytogenes in the positive samples; and (iv) characterize the L. monocytogenes strains by serotyping and macrorestriction (PFGE). For this purpose, 205 cheese samples belonging to 17 different brands were analyzed. The microbiological analyses were conducted according to ISO standardized protocols for the detection of L. monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. or by enumeration of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus and coliforms at 45°C. Among the samples, 47.31% did not comply with at least one of the microbiological standards established by the Brazilian legislation and were thus unsuitable for human consumption. Regarding the coliforms at 45ºC and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus, 10.73% and 40.48% of the samples presented higher counts than the legal parameter, respectively. There was no association between the frequency of samples with coagulase-positive Staphylococcus counts above the legal parameter and local of purchasing; however, the commercial brand influenced the frequency of unsuitable samples. This may indicate failures of hygiene during cheese production. Salmonella spp. were not detected. Listeria monocytogenes was isolated from 2.9% of the samples. The estimated average populations of Listeria spp. and L. monocytogenes were low in the positive cheese samples at -3.3 log CFU g?1 and -2.26 log CFU g?¹, respectively. The strains of L. monocytogenes belonged to serovars 1/2a, 1/2b and 1/2c and could be grouped into five pulsotypes with no evident epidemiological relation among them. The results demonstrate the need to improve the hygiene procedures during colonial cheese production and to strengthen monitoring at the dairy plants and retail levels.
Digital radiography and ultrasonography in evaluation of the canine prostate
Authors: Moresco Bruna Naiara , Gonçalves Gentil Ferreira
Published: May 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the canine prostate using ultrasonography and digital radiography. The study involved 21 intact dogs of mixed breed, with a mean weight of 8.7 ± 3.09 kg and without previous hormonal treatment. The dogs were divided into three groups according to the age: GI (0-3 years); GII (3-7 years); GIII (7+ years). Prostates from each animal were qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated by means of digital rectal examination, ultrasonography and digital radiography. A total of 882 measurements were obtained and 84 qualitative analyses. The results demonstrated association and high agreement between digital rectal examination and radiography for prostatomegaly diagnosis (p = 0.0030; K = 0.829268). Ultrasonography and digital rectal examination did not present an association and had low agreement for diagnosis of alterations in prostatic parenchyma (p = 1; K = 0.049383). Also, there was a difference between ultrasonographic and radiographic measurements (height: p = 0.0002; length: p < 0.0001; width: p < 0.0001). However, the measurements from distinct radiographic projections showed no difference between each other (width: p = 0.3543; length: p = 0.3079 and p = 0.9725; height: p = 0.3208). Prostatic volume based on ultrasonographic measurements showed a positive correlation being proportional to the age of the dog (p = 0.0383). It was concluded that both methods, ultrasonography and radiography, are relevant diagnostic tools in evaluating the canine prostate, beyond just complementing each other. There are limitations associated with both imaging methods, which should be taken into consideration when planning a specific investigation of the canine prostate.
Outbreak of salt poisoning in goats in the state of Pará, Brazil
Authors: Duarte Marcos Dutra , Bezerra Júnior Pedro Soares , Bomjardim Henrique dos Anjos , Silva Natália da Silva , Silveira José Alcides Sarmento , Faial Kelson do Carmo Freitas , Albernaz Tatiane Telez , Barbosa José Diomedes
Published: May 2019

The present study reports two outbreaks of salt poisoning in goats on a property in the state of Pará, Brazil. The outbreaks occurred in July and August 2011 when young and adult goats received a mineral mixture after approximately three days of restriction from the supplement. The animals were kept in barns with a high stocking density and had an inadequate supply of water. In the second outbreak, the goats were supplemented too with brewery residue added to 3.3% of the mixture mineral. From a flock of 191 goats, 12 animals (nine crossbreeds, two Anglo-Nubians and one Boer) showed nervous symptomatology, and the morbidity rate was 6.28%. The most frequent clinical signs were head lowering, head tilt, muscle weakness, mydriasis and ataxia. Three goats died, four recovered spontaneously from the first outbreak, and five recovered from the second outbreak over three days after treatment with dexamethasone, thiamine and gradual water supply. The lethality rate was 25%. In two animals, necropsy was performed, and no macro- or microscopic alterations in the nervous system or other organs were observed. These negative pathological findings indicate that the neurological clinical signs were initiated by functional disturbances in the central nervous system. In the brain, a high sodium concentration (3703 and 3675 ppm), compared with the reference values for cattle was detected. Normonatremia was observed in the sick goats, and hypernatremia was observed in the goats from the same lot of affected animals based on blood serum samples obtained before the first outbreak. These results pointed out that the goats were consuming high sodium concentrations. Normal values for the sick animals were assigned after rapid osmotic control via adequate water intake. We conclude that the salt poisoning on the goats occurred due to a high intake of the mineral mixture caused by management errors and associated with water restrictions.
Reproductive performance of heifers of different weight classes in the first and second mating
Authors: Pacheco Rangel Fernandes , Brondani Ivan Luiz , Alves Filho Dari Celestino , Cattelam Jonatas , Mayer Andrei Retamoso , Martini Ana Paula Machado , Santos Gilmar Cardoso , Borchate Daniele , Restle João
Published: May 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of live weight at first mating on reproductive performance in the first and second reproductive years. For that purpose, the reproductive history of 221 heifers mated for the first time between the years of 2003 and 2012 was evaluated. Heifers were grouped into three weight classes at the age of 24 months: 50-59.9% (55%), 60-69.9% (65%), and 70-80% (75%). The pregnancy rate in the first reproductive year in heifers from weight classes 55%, 65%, and 75% was 38.0%, 56.4%, and 69.0%, respectively. The pregnancy rate in the second reproductive year was not affected by weight at first mating (p > 0.05) and corresponded to 41.6%; 42.1%, and 50.4% in the three weight classes, respectively. The weight class of heifers before mating at the age of 24 months affected reproductive performance at first mating but did not increase the pregnancy rate in the second reproductive year.
Growth curves and genetic parameters in Nelore animals estimated by random regression models
Authors: Silveira Maurício Vargas da , Souza Júlio César de , Bertipaglia Tássia Souza , Ferraz Filho Paulo Bahiense , Pereira Mariana Alencar , Machado Carlos Henrique Cavallari
Published: May 2019

The objective of this work was to estimate growth curves and genetic parameters from birth to 650 days of age of Nelore cattle raised in pasture in two production regions of the Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil (233,835 weight records from 47,459 cattle were analyzed). Genetic parameters were determined by random regression using Legendre orthogonal polynomials of cubic order, and age at weighing was considered in the model as a fixed effect to model the average growth trajectory. In the models, the effects of the contemporary group were considered as fixed and, as covariates, the animal age at weighing and the cow age at calving were nested in the animal age class (linear and quadratic effects), forming eight age classes. All models included the direct genetic additive, maternal genetic, and animal permanent environment as random effects, and the most appropriate model to describe the studied effects was defined according to the AIC and BIC criteria. Heritability estimates for birth weight varied between the two production regions, Campo Grande-Dourados (R1) and Alto Taquari-Bolsão (R2) and R1 (0.36 ± 0.02) and R2 (0.28 ± 0.03), and there were variations in the estimates at advanced ages. In both regions, the highest heritability values at 650 days of age were 0.47 ± 0.03 and 0.65 ± 0.02 for R1 and R2, respectively, with high heritability reflecting the high values of additive genetic variance. The random regression methodology was efficient in estimating growth curves and genetic parameters. Growth curves were different when they were estimated separately by sex, birth season, and production region. Genetic parameters estimated separately by region indicate differences in additive genetic variance, maternal additive, and animal permanent environment for weights up to 650 days of age.
Effect of the inclusion of lysine and methionine on the nutritional performance and ingestive behavior of lambs
Authors: Araújo Carolina Moreira , Macedo Junior Gilberto de Lima , Oliveira Karla Alves , Varanis Laura Ferrari Monteiro , Assis Tamires Soares de , Siqueira Marco Tulio Santos
Published: May 2019

Lysine and methionine are the most limiting amino acids for ruminants; their inclusion in the free form is not effective, since they are quickly degraded by ruminal microorganisms, making the fulfillment of the requirements of metabolizable protein difficult. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of including different levels of lysine and methionine, protected from ruminal degradation, in the diet of lambs; more specifically, their effects on intake, digestibility, nitrogen balance and ingestive behavior. The experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm Capim Branco, Federal University of Uberlândia, from September to October 2016. Five 1/2Dorper x 1/2Santa Inês lambs, at approximately eight months of age and an average weight of 50 kg, were distributed in a 5x5 Latin square design, with five treatments and five replicates. The treatments consisted of different levels (0 g, 8 g, 16 g, 24 g and 32 g) of lysine and methionine added to the diet, protected from ruminal degradation (MicroPEARLS LM ®). The feed was composed of corn silage and concentrate (30V: 70C), offered twice daily at 08h00 and 16h00. The experiment lasted 75 days and was divided into five phases. Each phase lasted 15 days, with 10 days for adaptation of the animals and five days of data collection. The animals were kept in individual metabolic cages, with a feeder, drinker and salt shaker. A digestibility assay was performed to determine the consumption and apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber and acid (NDF/NDA). Urine volume and density, stool weight and fecal score, nitrogen balance and ingestive behavior were recorded. In relation to metabolic and body weight, DM intake (kg day-1) presented a positive linear response with the inclusion of amino acids, as well as the CP intake, NDF intake, ingested nitrogen and nitrogen balance, which were positive in all treatments. There was no difference (P < 0.05) in the digestibility coefficients of DM, CP and NDF. Water consumption was high in all treatments, but did not differ by treatment (P > 0.05). Ingestive behavior was not influenced (P > 0.05). The inclusion of up to 32 g of protected lysine and methionine increases DM and nutrient intake, without negatively affecting digestibility. The high CP intake induced an increase in the urinary nitrogen excretion, and consequently, an increase in the energy expenditure.
Kidney disease in natural infection by Ehrlichia canis in dogs
Authors: Ziliani Thaysa Felfili , Castilho Alessandra Ramos , Poletto Daiane , Mendonça Adriane Jorge , Sousa Valéria Régia Franco , Dutra Valéria , Almeida Arleana do Bom Parto Ferreira de
Published: May 2019

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, caused by the intracellular bacterium Ehrlichia canis, can affect different organs, including the kidneys, in different stages of infection, and kidney involvement is considered one of the main causes of death related to the disease. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of kidney disease in dogs naturally infected with E. canis and to correlate antibody levels with the severity of renal disease. Serum concentrations of urea, creatinine, and proteins (albumin and globulin), along with urine concentration, urine gamma-glutamyl transferase, and urine protein levels, were evaluated in 60 dogs with E. canis infection diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction. The detection of anti-E. canis antibodies was also performed for each dog. Of the 60 dogs with E. canis infection, 73.33% presented anti-E. canis antibodies. Laboratory abnormalities consistent with renal disease were observed in 33 (55%) infected dogs, and of these, 43.3% were in stage I chronic kidney disease. A positive correlation was observed between antibody levels and total plasma protein (p = 0.0332) and serum globulin (p = 0.0057) levels. In this study, renal disease was observed on routine laboratory testing in 55% of dogs with monocytic ehrlichiosis; however, there was no correlation between the stage of renal disease and the antibody titer against E. canis.
Effect of Lactic Acid Bacteria Starter Cultures on Vitamin and Oligosaccharide Composition of Milk Extracted from Three Common Bean (Phaselous Vulgaris L) Varieties
Authors: Anino Calvince , Onyango Arnold , Imathiu Samuel , Maina Julius
Published: May 2019

Fermented foods have in recent times attracted consumer interest mainly due to perceived health benefits of probiotic microorganisms. This study characterized changes in the concentrations of selected B-complex vitamins and oligosaccharides of common bean milk during fermentation by a common dairy starter culture, YF L-903 (Streptococcus thermophilus + Lactobacillus Bulgaricus subs Debulgaricus), and three probiotic cultures namely ABT (Lactobacillus acidophilus La-5 + Bifidobacterium animalis Bb-12 + Streptococcus thermophilus), Yoba (Lactobacillus rhamnosus yoba + Streptococcus thermophilus), and Yoba Fiti (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR1 + Streptococcus thermophilus). Bean milk was prepared from three common bean varieties. It was found that, apart from thiamine (vitamin B1) and riboflavin (vitamin B2), fermentation with each of the mixed cultures caused significant increase in the vitamin B complex. Significant reductions (p<0.05) in the oligosaccharides concentration of the bean milks were observed upon fermentation. Highest reduction in the oligosaccharide sugars of 77.8% was found in milk from pinto bean variety fermented with ABT culture. These findings suggest that LAB probiotic cultures have a potential for improving biosynthesis of vitamins and removal of the verbascose, stachyose and raffinose oligosaccharides, thus making the product more digestible and the nutrients more bioavailable.
Participation of a specialist doctor in the procedure of evaluating the need for special education on the grounds of being deaf/hard of hearing
Authors: Zaborniak-Sobczak Małgorzata , Bieńkowska Katarzyna Ita , Grot-Mrozicka Magdalena , Mazurewicz-Rzepka Monika
Published: May 2019

The paper discusses the procedure of evaluating the need for special education for pupils with hearing impairment based on the provisions of the education law currently in force in the Polish education system. The latest material on the aforementioned subject appeared in the audiological literature, in a publication edited by Antoni Pruszewicz and Andrzej Obrębowski [17].
The aim of the paper is to update the data on the qualification of children with hearing impairment as pupils with disabilities (more generally: with special educational needs) and to define the role of a specialist doctor – audiologist, laryngologist, otolaryngologist – in evaluation for education purposes.
Malignant transformation of the salivary gland pleomorphic adenoma in myoepithelial carcinoma – the report of two cases
Authors: Szabelska Paulina , Rzepakowska Anna , Szczepankiewicz Benedykt , Niemczyk Elżbieta , Osuch-Wójcikiewicz Ewa , Niemczyk Kazimierz
Published: May 2019

A multiform adenoma is the most commonly diagnosed benign tumor of the salivary glands. In the majority of patients, surgical resection of the tumor with the adequate surrounding tissue of salivary gland allows for complete recovery. A small percentage of the cases is a recurring pleomorphic adenoma. Even more rarely the diagnosis of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma is made. The study presents two clinical cases of the malignant transformation of pleomorphic adenoma into the myoepithelial carcinoma. The surgical treatment and additional radiotherapy were performed in both cases.
A case of lyme borreliosis complicated by the development of sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Zinchuk Alexander , Prykuda Nadiya
Published: May 2019

Introduction. Lyme borreliosis (LB) is endemic spirochetosis with a transmission mechanism, which is often marked by a durable, recurrent course with multiple organ damages. LB is characterized by the appearance of migrating erythema at the site of tick bite. Durable persistence of the agent promotes disease progressing and occurrence of serious complications related to the nervous system, the heart and the locomotive apparatus. Among infrequent and especially dangerous complications of LB is damage to the hearing apparatus with the development of sensorineural deafness – hearing loss, which develops within 24 hours due to function impairment of the internal ear or auditory nerve. That infectious diseases account for 12.8-13% of numerous causes of sensorineural deafness development. Most frequently, the disease caused by B. burgdorferi is mentioned.
Aim. To analyze the clinical case of Lyme borreliosis complicated by the sensorineural hearing loss.
Materials and methods. The analysis of clinical-laboratory and instrumental data of the patient with Lyme borreliosis, whose course of the disease was complicated by sensorineural hearing loss. The patient received care at Lviv Regional Infectious Diseases Clinical Hospital (LRIDCH).
Results. The article presents a clinical case of Lyme borreliosis, complicated by sensorineural hearing loss, which appeared on the 15th day from the onset of erythema annulare in the patient. Hearing recovery in the patient could not be achieved via administration of etiotropic treatment (2.0 g/per day of ceftriaxone for 28 days), which was likely associated with late visit of the patient for medical aid.
Conclusions. Sensorineural hearing loss is one of the rare, but severe lesions of auditory analyzer in LB. Hearing improvement after antibiotic therapy is possible in certain cases in early treatment.