bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rebel Girls and Consequence in Life Is Strange and The Walking Dead
Authors: Butt Mahli-Ann Rakkomkaew , Dunne Daniel
Published: February 2018

The presence of women within videogames has progressed to a state where narratives about the empowerment of women are becoming popular; however, such games still invite a number of gendered stereotypes. Housed in the genre of adventure games, The Walking Dead: Season Two and Life Is Strange appear to follow in the spirit of this emerging women’s revolution but inevitably reestablish traditional presentations of sexism in the treatment of their endings. In particular, the presentation of the infamous Trolley Problem and its inherent utilitarian framework is an incendiary moment wherein these games mark rebellious women as necessary sacrifices for the greater good and the continuation of the community. This article explores these two specific moments of sacrifice at the conclusions of Life Is Strange and The Walking Dead: Season Two and engages with tensions between the status quo and the resistances that challenges these norms.
Analyzing Moral Deliberation During Gameplay: Moral Foundations Theory as an Analytic Resource
Authors: Fennewald Thomas , Phelps David
Published: February 2018

This article explores the role of interplayer moral conversation in multiplayer games with three subquestions: how to design and use games for morality research, how advances in moral theory can inform game-based research into morals, and how game-based research can inform moral theory. A long tradition has investigated morals using games such as Ultimatum and Dictator; however, this research often omits interplayer moral dialogue. Further, when moral foundations theory is accounted for, analysis of these games seems to investigate a narrow range of moral reasoning. In this methodological critique, we draw upon data from gameplay of a simulation of climate change debate and find a wide range of moral foundations through analysis of dialogue. Our analysis suggests that in-game player dialogue is a source of rich moral deliberation and potential for using simulation games as grounds for discovering new moral foundations.
What makes online substance-use interventions engaging? A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Milward Joanna , Drummond Colin , Fincham-Campbell Stephanie , Deluca Paolo
Published: February 2018

Background

Online substance-use interventions are effective in producing reductions in harmful-use. However, low user engagement rates with online interventions reduces overall effectiveness of interventions. Identifying optimal strategies with which to engage users with online substance-use interventions may improve usage rates and subsequent effectiveness.

Objectives

(1) To identify the most prevalent engagement promoting strategies utilised to increase use of online substance-use interventions. (2) To determine whether the identified engagement promoting strategies increased said use of online substance-use interventions.

Review methods

The reviewed followed Cochrane methodology. Databases were searched for online substance-use interventions and engagement promoting strategies limited by study type (randomised controlled trial). Due to heterogeneity between engagement promoting strategies and engagement outcomes, meta-analytic techniques were not possible. Narrative synthesis methods were used.

Results

Fifteen studies were included. Five different engagement promoting strategies were identified: (1) tailoring; (2) delivery strategies; (3) incentives; (4) reminders; (5) social support. The most frequently reported engagement promoting strategies was tailoring (47% of studies), followed by reminders and social support (40% of studies) and delivery strategies (33% of studies). The narrative synthesis demonstrated that tailoring, multimedia delivery of content and reminders are potential techniques for promoting engagement. The evidence for social support was inconclusive and negative for incentives.

Conclusions

This review was the first to examine engagement promoting strategies in solely online substance-use interventions. Three strategies were identified that may be integral in promoting engagement with online substance-use interventions. However, the small number of eligible extracted studies, inconsistent reporting of engagement outcomes and diversity of engagement features prevent firmer conclusions. More high-quality trials examining engagement are required.
The Impact of Annual Audiograms on Employee’s Habits and Awareness Regarding Hearing Protection and Noise Induced Hearing Loss, On and Off the Job
Authors: Leshchinsky Ariel
Published: February 2018

Noise-induced hearing loss occurs among workers across a wide spectrum of industries. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether annual hearing testing contributed to a change in employees’ habits and awareness and aimed to evaluate the use of hearing protection at work and at home. Employees enrolled in a university’s hearing conservation program (HCP) were anonymously surveyed regarding their hearing protection habits and awareness of noise exposures on and off the job using a Likert-type scale. Approximately half were “very much” concerned about hearing loss over time. Evidence supports that annual testing, part of the workplace HCP, also led over half of participants to change their habits at work and at home. Awareness of noise exposures increased both at home and at work with annual testing. Overall, the HCP in this particular setting was associated with improved on-the-job and home hearing protection use.
The Role of Prognostic Scoring Systems in Assessing Surgical Candidacy for Patients With Vertebral Metastasis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Cassidy John Tristan , Baker Joseph F. , Lenehan Brian
Published: February 2018

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Objectives:

To review the relevant literature regarding scoring systems for vertebral metastases and quantify their role in contemporary orthopedic practice.

Methods:

A literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase was performed on February 7, 2017. Eight scoring systems were selected for detailed review—7 of which were scores focused solely on patient prognosis (Tokuhashi, Tomita, Bauer, Oswestry Spinal Risk Index, Van der Linden, Rades, and Katagiri). The eighth system reviewed was the Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score, which examines for impending spinal instability in patients with vertebral metastases and represents a novel approach compared with hitherto scoring systems.

Results:

The Bauer and Oswestry Spinal Risk Index have the most accurate prognostic predictive ability, with the newer Oswestry Spinal Risk Index being favored by the contemporary literature as it demands less investigation and is therefore more readily accessible. There was a growing trend in studies designed to customize scoring systems for individual cancer pathological subtypes. The Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score shows good reliability for predicting instability among surgeons and oncologists.

Conclusions:

The increased understanding of cancer pathology and subsequent development of customized treatments has led to prolonged survival. For patients with vertebral metastases, this affects surgical candidacy not only on the basis of prognosis but also provides prolonged opportunity for the development of spinal instability. Scoring systems have a useful guidance role in these deciding for/against surgical intervention, but in order to remain contemporary ongoing review, development, and revalidation is mandatory.
Combination Therapy with Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate/Emtricitabine/Elvitegravir/Cobicistat Plus Darunavir Once Daily in Antiretroviral-Naive and Treatment-Experienced Patients: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Naccarato Mark J. , Yoong Deborah M. , Fong Ignatius W. , Gough Kevin A. , Ostrowski Marian A. , Tan Darrell H. S.
Published: February 2018

Background:

Patients with drug-resistant HIV often require complex antiretroviral regimens. However, combining fixed-dose combination tablets such as tenofovir–disoproxil–fumarate, emtricitabine, and cobicistat-boosted elvitegravir (TDF/FTC/EVG/cobi) with darunavir (DRV) can provide a simple, once-daily (QD), 2-tablet regimen for patients with drug-resistant HIV. Primary objective was to determine the percentage of patients with HIV-1 RNA <40 copies/mL at 48 weeks.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective chart review of patients initiated on TDF/FTC/EVG/cobi plus DRV.

Results:

Among the 21 included patients, prior resistance showed a median of 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor mutations, 1 nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase mutation, and 1 protease inhibitor mutation. At week 48, 14 (67%) patients achieved HIV-1 RNA <40 copies/mL, 1 patient experienced viral rebound, and 6 (29%) had missing data or discontinued therapy. No patient discontinued for adverse events.

Conclusion:

According to this observational study, QD TDF/FTC/EVG/cobi plus DRV is considered safe, well tolerated, and generally effective in suppressing HIV drug-resistant virus.
Estimating the Consequences of Norway’s National Scale-Up of Early Childhood Education and Care (Beginning in Infancy) for Early Language Skills
Authors: Dearing Eric , Zachrisson Henrik Daae , Mykletun Arnstein , Toppelberg Claudio O.
Published: February 2018

While most early childhood education and care (ECEC) programs taken to scale in the United States have served socially disadvantaged 3- to 5-years-olds, Norway scaled up universal ECEC from age 1. We investigated the consequences of Norway’s universal ECEC scale-up for children’s early language skills, exploiting variation in ECEC coverage across birth cohorts and municipalities in a population-based sample (n = 63,350). Estimates from two-stage least squares (i.e., instrumental variable) regression and generalized difference-in-differences models indicated the scale-up of universal ECEC led to improved language outcomes, particularly for low-income children. As preschool programs at scale become increasingly common in the United States, our results from Norway help inform debate about the merits of universal versus targeted policies and should provoke discussion about the benefits of beginning ECEC programs as early as infancy.
Early-onset invasive aspergillosis and other fungal infections in patients treated with ibrutinib
Authors: Ghez David , Calleja Anne , Protin Caroline , Baron Marine , Ledoux Marie-Pierre , Damaj Gandhi , Dupont Mathieu , Dreyfus Brigitte , Ferrant Emmanuelle , Herbaux Charles , Laribi Kamel , Le Calloch Ronan , Malphettes Marion , Paul Franciane , Souchet Laetitia , Truchan-Graczyk Malgorzata , Delavigne Karen , Dartigeas Caroline , Ysebaert Loïc
Published: February 2018

Key Points

Ibrutinib may be associated with invasive fungal infections especially IA. Most infections usually occur during the first months of treatment, often in patients with other risk factors for fungal infections.
Complete genome sequence of Pseudomonas alcaliphila JAB1 (=DSM 26533), a versatile degrader of organic pollutants
Authors: Ridl Jakub , Suman Jachym , Fraraccio Serena , Hradilova Miluse , Strejcek Michal , Cajthaml Tomas , Zubrova Andrea , Macek Tomas , Strnad Hynek , Uhlik Ondrej
Published: February 2018

In this study, following its isolation from contaminated soil, the genomic sequence of
Pseudomonas alcaliphila
strain JAB1 (=DSM 26533), a biphenyl-degrading bacterium, is reported and analyzed in relation to its extensive degradative capabilities. The
P. alcaliphila
JAB1 genome (GenBank accession no. CP016162) consists of a single 5.34 Mbp-long chromosome with a GC content of 62.5%. Gene function was assigned to 3816 of the 4908 predicted genes. The genome harbors a bph gene cluster, permitting degradation of biphenyl and many congeners of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a ben gene cluster, enabling benzoate and its derivatives to be degraded, and phe gene cluster, which permits phenol degradation. In addition,
P. alcaliphila
JAB1 is capable of cometabolically degrading cis-1,2-dichloroethylene (cDCE) when grown on phenol. The strain carries both catechol and protocatechuate branches of the β-ketoadipate pathway, which is used to funnel the pollutants to the central metabolism. Furthermore, we propose that clustering of MALDI-TOF MS spectra with closest phylogenetic relatives should be used when taxonomically classifying the isolated bacterium; this, together with 16S rRNA gene sequence and chemotaxonomic data analyses, enables more precise identification of the culture at the species level.
Guided self-help in a brave new world
Authors: Delgadillo Jaime
Published: February 2018

Cognitive–behavioural therapy self-help offers an accessible and efficient way to treat common mental disorders. The evidence-based self-help movement has an important foothold in the healthcare arena. This article surveys the emergence of self-help at a particular social and historical junction, and summarises key lessons from experimental and practice-based studies.

Declaration of interest

None.
The Endocrine and Metabolic Characteristics of a Large Bardet-Biedl Syndrome Clinic Population
Authors: Mujahid Safa , Hunt Katharine F , Cheah Yee S , Forsythe Elizabeth , Hazlehurst Jonathan M , Sparks Kathryn , Mohammed Shehla , Tomlinson Jeremy W , Amiel Stephanie A , Carroll Paul V , Beales Phillip L , Huda Mohammed S B , McGowan Barbara M
Published: February 2018

Context

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder in which previous reports have described obesity and a metabolic syndrome.

Objective

We describe the endocrine and metabolic characteristics of a large BBS population compared with matched control subjects.

Design

We performed a case-control study.

Setting

This study was performed at a hospital clinic.

Patients

Study patients had a clinical or genetic diagnosis of BBS.

Main Outcome Measurements

Our study determined the prevalence of a metabolic syndrome in our cohort.

Results

A total of 152 subjects were studied. Eighty-four (55.3%) were male. Mean (± standard deviation) age was 33.2 ± 1.0 years. Compared with age-, sex-, and body mass index–matched control subjects, fasting glucose and insulin levels were significantly higher in subjects with BBS (glucose: BBS, 5.2 ± 1.2 mmol/L vs control, 4.9 ± 0.9 mmol/L, P = 0.04; insulin: BBS, 24.2 ± 17.0 pmol/L vs control, 14.2 ± 14.8 pmol/L, P < 0.001). Serum triglycerides were significantly higher in subjects with BBS (2.0 ± 1.2 mmol/L) compared with control subjects (1.3 ± 0.8 mmol/L; P < 0.001), but total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein were similar in both groups. Systolic blood pressure was higher in the BBS group (BBS, 135 ± 18 mm Hg vs control subjects, 129 ± 16 mm Hg; P = 0.02). Alanine transaminase was raised in 34 (26.8%) subjects with BBS, compared with five (8.9%) control subjects (P = 0.01). The rate of metabolic syndrome, determined using International Diabetes Federation criteria, was significantly higher in the BBS group (54.3%) compared with control subjects (26% P < 0.001). Twenty-six (19.5%) of male subjects with BBS were hypogonadal (serum testosterone, 9.9 ± 5.3 mmol/L), but significant pituitary abnormalities were uncommon. Subclinical hypothyroidism was present in 24 of 125 (19.4%) patients with BBS, compared with 3 of 65 (4.6%) control subjects (P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome are increased in adult patients with BBS compared with matched control subjects. Increased subclinical hypothyroidism in the BBS cohort needs further investigation.
Connection Between BMI-Related Plasma Metabolite Profile and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Ottosson Filip , Brunkwall Louise , Ericson Ulrika , Nilsson Peter M , Almgren Peter , Fernandez Céline , Melander Olle , Orho-Melander Marju
Published: February 2018

Context

Emerging evidence has related the gut microbiome and circulating metabolites to human obesity. Gut microbiota is responsible for several metabolic functions, and altered plasma metabolome might reflect differences in the gut microbiome.

Objective

To identify a plasma metabolite profile associated with body mass index (BMI) in a general population and investigate whether such metabolite profile is associated with distinct composition of the gut microbiota.

Design

Targeted profiling of 48 plasma metabolites was performed in a population of 920 Swedish adults (mean age, 39 years; 53% women) from the ongoing Malmö Offspring Study using targeted liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Gut microbiota was analyzed by sequencing the 16S ribosomal RNA gene (V1-V3 region) in fecal samples of 674 study participants.

Results

BMI was associated with 19 metabolites (P < 0.001 for all), of which glutamate provided the strongest direct association (P = 5.2e-53). By orthogonal partial least squares regression, a metabolite principal component predictive of BMI was constructed (PCBMI). In addition to glutamate, PCBMI was dominated by branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and related metabolites. Four gut microbiota genera (Blautia, Dorea, Ruminococcus, and SHA-98) were associated with both BMI and PCBMI (P < 8.0e-4 for all). When simultaneously regressing PCBMI and metabolite-associated gut bacteria against BMI, only PCBMI remained statistically significant.

Conclusions

We discovered associations between four gut microbiota genera (Blautia, Dorea, Ruminococcus, and SHA-98) and BMI-predictive plasma metabolites, including glutamate and BCAAs. Thus, these metabolites could be mediators between gut microbiota and obesity, pointing to potential future opportunities for targeting the gut microbiota in prevention of obesity.
Preoperative evaluation of neurovascular relationship in trigeminal neuralgia by three-dimensional fast low angle shot (3D-FLASH) and three-dimensional constructive interference in steady-state (3D-CISS) MRI sequence
Authors: Yang Dengfa , Shen Jianmin , Xia Xianwu , Lin Yeqing , Yang Tiejun , Lin Hanshun , Jin Yong , Zhou Kaiyu , Li Youcheng
Published: February 2018

Objective:

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the value of high-resolution three-dimensional fast low angle shot (3D-FLASH) and three-dimensional constructive interference in steady-state (3D-CISS) MRI sequence solely or the combination of both in the visualization of neurovascular relationship in patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

Methods:

65 patients with unilateral TN underwent 3D-FLASH and 3D-CISS imaging were retrospectively studied. Neurovascular relationship at the intracisternal segment of trigeminal nerve was reviewed by two experienced neuroradiologist, who was blinded to the clinical details. The imaging results were compared with the operative findings in all patients.

Results:

The accuracy and positive rates of the 3D-FLASH + CISS imaging (98.46, 92.31%) in judging the symptomatic side according to the presence of vascular contacts were higher than those of 3D-CISS (90.77%, 84.62) or 3D-FLASH (89.23, 83.08%) sequence. In addition, the statistical analysis showed the sensitivity and accuracy of 3D-FLASH + CISS imaging was higher than that of 3D-FLASH (p < 0.05). The 3D-FLASH + CISS imaging was more accurate in determining the type of offending vessel than 3D-CISS or 3D-FLASH imaging.

Conclusion:

The retrospective study demonstrates that the combination of 3D-FLASH with 3D-CISS sequence well delineates the relationship between intracisternal segment of trigeminal nerve and adjacent vessels in terms of increased positive rates and accuracy.

Advances in knowledge:

The study firstly dealt with the combination of 3D-CISS and 3D-FLASH imaging in TN.
Evaluation of common in vitro used chemicals' effect on motility and chromatin stability of boar spermatozoa
Authors: TSAKMAKIDIS (Ι.Α. ΤΣΑΚΜΑΚΙΔΗΣ) I. A. , KHALIFA T. , LYMBEROPOULOS (Α.Γ. ΛΥΜΠΕΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) A. G. , MICHOS (Η.Α. ΜΙΧΟΣ) I. A. , BOSKOS (Κ.Μ. ΜΠΟΣΚΟΣ) C. M.
Published: February 2018

Chemicals such as heparin, calcium ionophore and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) have been used in sperm's function evaluation assays, since they are facilitating the sperm capacitation and the induction of acrosome reaction. Many researchers modified porcine in vitro protocols purposing the improvement and validation of in vitro assays. The modification of the above mentioned chemicals' concentration could have a detrimental effect on sperm characteristics, relative to normal sperm function and fertilizing ability. The present study aimed to investigate in vitro effect of various concentrations of, a) heparin (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 μg/ml), b) calcium ionophore A23187 (10, 20, 30 μΜ) and c) DMSO (1, 2, 3 % v/v), that have been used in sperm evaluation techniques, on chromatin instability and total motility of boar spermatozoa. Eight boars were used as semen donors, providing 20 ejaculates. Acridine orange test and subjective evaluation of semen by a microscope equipped with a heated plate were performed in order to evaluate chromatin integrity and motility, respectively. The results of this study showed that the addition of heparin, A23187 and DMSO at concentrations of 8 - 10 μ^πιΐ, 10 μΜ and 1%, respectively, can be used for in vitro handling of boar spermatozoa without reduction of their motility and chromatin quality.
Tritrichomonas foetus: a new cause of diarrhea in cats in Greece
Authors: XENOULIS (Π.Γ. ΞΕΝΟΥΛΗΣ) P. G.
Published: February 2018

Over the past few years, the protozoan parasite Tritrichomonas foetus (T foetus) has emerged as a new and important cause of feline diarrhea in the international veterinary community. In a recent study, the presence of T. foetus was confirmed for the first time in cats in Greece. The protozoan parasite Τ foetus has been primarily known as a cause of trichomoniasis in cattle. In this animal species, the parasite affects the reproductive system of both males and females and is associated with infertility and other reproductive problems. It was first described as a cause of feline diarrhea in 2003 in the United States. Since then, feline Τ.foetus -associated diarrhea has been reported in many countries around the world and, recently, it was, also, described in cats in Greece. The trophozoites of the parasite are excreted in the feces and healthy cats are infected with the ingestion of T. foetus trophozoites. Τ foetus affects mainly the colon and the last part of the small intestine. Τ/oeto-associated diarrhea occurs mainly in young cats, but cats of any age can be infected and develop clinical signs. The main clinical sign is diarrhea, which may contain mucus or blood, and it often has spontaneous remissions and exacerbations. General clinical sings such as anorexia, weight loss and fever occur less frequently. If left untreated, the diarrhea often persists for months or years. In some cats, the clinical signs eventually resolve without treatment, but this can take up to 2 years. Moreover, these animals usually remain infected and are a source of infection for other cats (or humans) and often the clinical signs relapse in situations of stress. Feline Τ foetus infection can be diagnosed mainly by: a) microscopic examination of fecal samples, b) fecal culture specific for Τ foetus and c) fecal PCR. None of the above methods is diagnostic in 100% of cases and, therefore, these methods should be used in combination and bearing in mind the disadvantages of each method. Most antiparasitic and antibiotic drugs are not effective in treating diarrhea caused by T. foetus . Transient improvement can be seen with the use of common antibiotics or antiparasitic drugs, but the clinical signs typically recur with discontinuation of treatment. The only drug with proven efficacy against T. foetus in cats is ronidazol, which is usually used at a dose of 30 mg/kg, orally every 24 hours for 14 days. In some cases, the clinical sings recur with discontinuation of treatment but they usually resolve after one additional treatment cycle. The most serious side effect of ronidazole in cats is the development of neurological signs, but those usually resolve with discontinuation of treatment. Finally, T. foetus may be transmitted to humans, although this has not been proven.
Perineal urethrostomy in the cat. Technique and complications
Authors: PAPAZOGLOU (Λ.Γ. ΠΑΠΑΖΟΓΛΟΥ) L. G. , BASDANI (Ε. ΜΠΑΣΔΑΝΗ) E.
Published: February 2018

Perineal urethrostomy (PU) is the surgical procedure performed in the male cat in order to create a permanent stoma of the pelvic urethra to the skin of the perineal region. The first urehrostomy was devised on early sixties and since then many urethrostomy techniques were invented. On 1971 Wilson and Harrison invented a technique of PU that is currently used by the majority of surgeons, because of the better results and fewer complications compared to the other urethrostomy techniques. Indications for performing PU in the male cat include recurrent urethral obstruction associated with lower urinary tract disease, as an emergency procedure for the restoration of the patency of the obstructed urethra when all other conservative measures failed, priapism, strictures, trauma and urethral neoplasms. For a successful PU: 1) the pelvic urethra should be incised and anastomosed in the perineum cranial to the bulbourethral glands, 2) the urethra should be completely freed from its attachments to the ishium so as to decrease tension to the stoma, and 3) accurate apposition of the urethra to the skin should be performed to achieve first intention healing of the stoma site and avoid stricture formation. Complications following PU may include urethral stricture, ascending urinary tract infection, haemorrhage, subcutaneous urine extravasation resulting in sloughing and dehiscence of the stoma, skin fold dermatitis, urinary and fecal incontinence, bladder atony, iatrogenic perineal hernia and rectourethral fistula. Prepubic, subpubic or transpelvic urethrostomy may be used to salvage postoperative urethral stricture. Pepubic urethrostomy is the only salvage technique that has been evaluated long-term, but is associated with serious complications such as urine scalding, urinary incontinence and urinary tract infection. Perineal urethrostomy aims at relieving urethral obstruction and is part of the medical management of cats with recurrent or persistent urethral plug formation.
Cultural and social aspects of animal domestication in Greek traditional society
Authors: ECONOMOU (Α. ΟΙΚΟΝΟΜΟΥ) A.
Published: February 2018

The study of the ways, perceptions and practices by means of which a traditional society domesticates animals constitutes an important chapter in the understanding and interpretation of the making of its civilization, as the presence of animals can be found in all its facets and expressions. In the present paper which, in its initial form, was delivered as a lecture to the Hellenic Veterinary Medical Society, reference was made to the ways the Greek traditional society uses to integrate animals in its cultural system. This reference, however, was a brief and indicative one, as these ways have not been sufficiently studied from a folkanthropological point of view in Greece. This integration happened in many different ways, through the production and reproduction of the animals in their quality as financial asset, the consumption of their meat during week days and celebrations, their naming, the care to prevent and to cure illnesses affecting them, their participation in the worship rituals of saints as sacrificial offers, both real and symbolic, their position in the symbolic and the imaginary as it is depicted in oral narrative (legends, fairy tales, traditions, proverbs). Special mention is made to the saint patrons (St. Modestos, St. Mamas, St. Minas) of the animals in orthodox Christian religion and in Greek popular beliefs and practices.
Survival of pathogens in "Graviera Kritis" cheese made with raw and pasteurized milk
Authors: SAMOURIS (Γ. ΣΑΜΟΥΡΗΣ) G. , ZDRAGAS (Α. ΖΔΡΑΓΚΑΣ) A. , VAFEAS (Γ. ΒΑΦΕΑΣ) G. , BELIBASAKI (Σ. ΜΠΕΛΙΜΠΑΣΑΚΗ) S.
Published: February 2018

A field trial was carried out to investigate the hygienic status of Graviera 'Kritis' cheese made with raw and pasteurized milk. Graviera was manufactured in a small plant in Crete under traditional manufacturing conditions. Forty-two samples were examined during the manufacturing process for Colifoms, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., Escherìchia coli 0157:H7 and VRE (Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci). All samples were negative for Salmonella spp., E. coli 0157:H7 and VRE. Populations of Colifoms and E. coli before cooking of the curd were 3 3.5 log10MPN/g higher in cheese made with raw milk in comparison to that made with pasteurized milk and populations of both bacteria decreased sharply during the aging period in both types of cheese. L. monocytogenes type 4b was isolated from the cheeses of two trials until after the salting period and remained under the detection limit of 100 cfu/g . At the end of the ripening period, all the examined bacteria were declined or eliminated to safe level.
Paraneoplastic exfoliative erythroderma in a cat with thymoma
Authors: KASABALIS (Δ. ΚΑΣΑΜΠΑΛΗΣ) D. , MYLONAKIS (Μ.Ε. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. E. , PATSIKAS (Μ.Ν. ΠΑΤΣΙΚΑΣ) M. N. , PETANIDES (Θ. ΠΕΤΑΝΙΔΗΣ) T. , KOUTINAS  (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F.
Published: February 2018

A 14-year-old domestic shorthair cat was admitted with a 2-month history of excessive body weight loss and generalized exfoliative dermatitis with erythroderma. Radiographic and ultrasonographic examination revealed a cranioventral cavitary mass within the anterior mediastinum. An ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration cytology from the mass revealed numerous small mature lymphocytes intermingled with much fewer inflammatory mast cells. These findings, along with a cellpoor interface and mixed cell dermatitis demonstrated on skin histopathology, made the diagnosis of paraneoplastic exfoliative dermatitis straightforward. This uncommon case illustrates the relative value of keratosebborheic skin disease as a useful indicator of an internal malignancy in the cat.
Acute tracheal narrowing presumptively associated with anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication in a dog
Authors: PARDALI (Δ.Σ. ΠΑΡΔΑΛΗ) D. S. , ADΑMAMA-MORAITOU (Κ.Κ. ΑΔΑΜΑΜΑ-ΩΡΑΪΤΟΥ) K. K. , PATSIKAS (Μ.Ν. ΠΑΤΣΙΚΑΣ) M. N. , KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F.
Published: February 2018

A 3.5-year-old, spayed female, German shepherd-cross dog was presented with cough, hemoptysis, inspiratory stridor and fascial plane hematomas. Routine bleeding profile showed prolonged prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time (PTT). Radiography revealed severe narrowing of tracheal lumen accompanied by increased thickness and opacity of its wall. Tracheal diameter was measured objectively, employing the ratio of its diameter (TD) to thoracic inlet distance (TI) and that of the midpoint between thoracic inlet and the carina (TT) to the 3r d rib width (3R), as well as the ratio of TT to predicted diameter of tracheal lumen [DPred (DPred cm = 0.47 (weight kg )0 3 9)]. All three ratios were found lower than normal. The space occupying effect of extensive and severe sub-mucosal hemorrhage due to anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication was incriminated.
Renal surgery in the dog and cat
Authors: PAPAZOGLOU (Λ.Γ. ΠΑΠΑΖΟΓΛΟΥ) L. G. , KOUTI (Β. ΚΟΥΤΗ) V.
Published: February 2018

Nephrectomy is the complete removal of the kidney and ipsilateral ureter and usually it is performed through a midline laparotomy for the treatment of end stage unilateral kidney disease. Indications for performing nephrectomy may include: renal and ureteral neoplasms, persistent renal haematuria, serious renal trauma associated with or without avulsion of renal pedicle, end-stage hydronephrosis, single renal cysts associated with renal disease, polycystic kidney disease associated with pyelonephritis, renal parasites, renal or perirenal abscessation, chronic end-stage pyelonephritis and renal disease associated with ectopic ureter. Normal function of the contralateral kidney is a prerequisite for performing nephrectomy. The presence of azotaemia or persistent isosthenuria is a contraindication for nephrectomy. Nephrectomy for pyelonephritis may not consistently resolve the infection in the remaining kidney. Preoperative evaluation of renal function in animals undergoing nephrectomy would ideally include determination of glomerular filtration rate using renal nuclear scintigraphy. However, in clinical practice, excretory urography is performed for the assessment of renal function. Nephrotomy is a limited surgical incision through the dorsal renal surface to remove nephroliths, to explore the pelvis for polyps and neoplasms and to identify causes of renal haematuria. Nephrotomy is reported not to significantly affect renal function in normal dogs and cats. Indications for nephrotomy associated with the presence of nephroliths may include hydronephrosis and hydroureter associated with renal pelvic obstruction, recurrent infection resistant to conservative treatment, progressive nephrolith enlargement and deterioration of renal function. Pyelolithotomy for calculus removal may only be used when the renal pelvis and the proximal ureter are markedly dilated.
A case of kidney infection by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis in sheep
Authors: PAPAIOANNOU (Ν. ΠΑΠΑΪΩΑΝΝΟΥ) N. , ZAVLARIS (Μ. ΖΑΒΛΑΡΗΣ) M. , GIADINIS (Ν.Δ. ΓΙΑΔΙΝΗΣ) N. D. , PETRIDOU (Ε.Ι. ΠΕΤΡΙΔΟΥ) E. J. , PSYCHAS (Β. ΨΥΧΑΣ) V.
Published: February 2018

A three year-old female sheep was presented to the Clinic of Farm Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, with mild nasal seromucous discharge and progressive weight loss, while rectal temperature was normal. Hematological examination revealed mild leukocytosis, while traces of hemoglobin and protein were found in urinalysis. The animal was euthanized and forwarded for necropsy. An extremely enlarged, nodular right kidney, whose renal parenchyma was completely replaced by multiple abscesses, was the remarkable finding of the necropsy. Microbiological and molecular examinations were performed to establish the diagnosis and rule out Maedi/Visna infection. Tissue samples from the kidney and other organs were, also, examined histologically. Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis was isolated in microbiological tests. A kidney infection by C. pseudotuberculosis, presented as a clinical case with scant symptoms, is discussed in this case report.
Spontaneous remission of localized myasthenia gravis manifested as megaesophagus in a dog
Authors: SOUBASIS (Ν. ΣΟΥΜΠΑΣΗΣ) N. , MYLONAKIS (Μ.Ε. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. E. , PATSIKAS (Μ.Ν. ΠΑΤΣΙΚΑΣ) M. N. , POLIZOPOULOU (Ζ. ΠΟΛΥΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) Z. , KOUTINAS  (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F.
Published: February 2018

A 2.5-year-old male German shepherd-cross dog was admitted for progressively deteriorating regurgitations ofone-month duration. Physical examination was unremarkable, apart from a poor body condition; also, neurological examination did not reveal any abnormality. In thoracic survey radiographs, a generalized esophageal dilation, consistent with megaesophagus, was well visualized. An increased nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antibody titer confirmed the diagnosis of acquired focal myasthenia gravis expressed as megaesophagus in this patient. The only help offered to the dog was a modification of its feeding habits (upright position, small and frequent meals). Within two months of the initial admission and prior to institution of specific treatment for myasthenia gravis, the dog experienced spontaneous and complete clinical remission and remained healthy for the next two years, eating again the normal way, but unfortunately was lost to follow-up. The favourable outcome of megaesophagus due to localized myasthenia gravis is discussed accordingly.
Leptospirosis: An important re-emerging infection of animals and man
Authors: BISIAS (Γ. ΜΠΙΣΙΑΣ) G. , KRITAS (Σ.Κ. ΚΡΗΤΑΣ) S. K. , BURRIEL A. , KONTOS (Β. ΚΟΝΤΟΣ) B.
Published: February 2018

Leptospirosis, a re-emerging infection of animals and man, is caused by one of 200 serotypes of Leptospira spp. The genus is currently divided into eight pathogenic species, infecting various animal species and man, either clinically or subclinically. Natural hosts of the microorganism are traditionally, but not exclusively, considered to be rodents. Infected animals excrete Leptospira in the environment, where it may remain for long periods of time, especially if temperatures are about 25°C. The reportedprevalence of infected animals from around the world is between 2% and 46%. In Greece, recent reports show a seropositivity among abortion cases of small ruminants around 25%, while the relevant percentage among apparently healthy food producing animals is between 5.7% and 16.2%. The most prevalent serotypes were Bratislava, Australis and Copenhageni, depending on the animal species. There is a need for more systematic study of the infection in Greece (especially with the possibility of the expected climatic changes to result in a temperature rise).
The status of Donkeys (Equus asinus) in Greece
Authors: ARSENOS (Γ. ΑΡΣΕΝΟΣ) G. , GELASAKIS (Α. Ι. ΓΕΛΑΣΑΚΗΣ) A. I. , PAPADOPOULOS (ΕΛ. ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) E. I.
Published: February 2018

The paper presents, for the first time, information about donkeys (Equus asinus) in Greece. Most of the information was obtained from interviews of donkey owners, using a purpose built questionnaire. The population of donkeys in Greece showeda remarkable decrease over the last decades. From 508,000 in 1955, there were only 14,570 in 2008, a decrease of 97%. The existing donkeys were characterised by a large diversity in phenotypes. The lack of any breeding programme for donkeys, the importation of jacks from foreign breeds, the loss of interest and under-appreciation, together with the ignorance of health and welfare needs of such animals were the main reasons that shaped the current status. The health and welfare status of donkeys differed enormously across different areas of Greece, reflecting differences in the cultural, economical and "emotional" importance of individual animals. It was revealed that many problems were associated with diseases originating in malnutrition, parasites and bad husbandry management. Moreover, current and future trends, resulting from social and economical developments in rural areas of Greece, are discussed. Given the trends currently affecting the status of donkeys in Greece we concluded that a conservation policy should be adopted, because the number of donkeys will continue to fall.
Environmental enrichment for laboratory animals in practice
Authors: KOSTOMITSOPOULOS (Ν. ΚΩΣΤΟΜΗΤΣΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) N.
Published: February 2018

During the last decades there has been an increased scientific interest in the improvement of housing conditions for laboratory animals by providing them with opportunities to perform more species - specific behavioural repertoires through enriching their environment. Environmental enrichment is, by definition, any modification in the environment of the captive animals that seeks to enhance their physical and physiological wellbeing by providing stimuli that meet the animals' species-specific needs. An enrichment scheme can be focused on the social and the physical environment. The social environment of animals can be enriched by housing them together with conspecifics in pairs or in groups. Procedures to achieve group formation need careful introduction of individuals which are compatible, a factor which is strongly dependent upon age, sex and hierarchical rank. Social housing will be beneficial only if the pairs or groups are harmonious and stable. The close contact with humans could be also considered as social improvement. Strategies to improve physical environment of laboratory animals should include provision of stimuli (materials or devices) that are biologically meaningful to them, with which they can choose to interact or not and which are not harmful to them. In practice, any enrichment scheme should be well designed before its implementation. In depth knowledge of the behavioural needs of the animals is prerequisite. Close collaboration between the scientific and the technical personnel is also necessary. Environmental changes need to be carefully evaluated in order to establish whether the improvement of animal welfare has been really achieved and to determine the impact on the obtained experimental results. The assessment of improved well-being as a result of environmental changes is based on a complex of behavioural and physiological parameters.
Abdominal ultrasonographic imaging of laboratory animals - Current techniques
Authors: MARINOU K.
Published: February 2018

Diagnostic ultrasonography is a non-invasive imaging technique developed and applicable both in reproductive and companion animals for the diagnosis of diseases. During the last years it has also been used in laboratory animals facilitating thus the advances of biomedical research. The ultrasonographic imaging of abdominal organs in laboratory animals may take place in soft tissue organs, such as the liver, the spleen, the kidneys, the urinary bladder, but also the uterus, especially before, during and after pregnancy, as well as during parturition. It has been proved to be extremely useful both for monitoring of organ architecture during several related experimental protocols and for diagnosing possible diseases that may occur during a laboratory animal's lifetime. During the last decade technological progress has been present in scientific life leading in several advances in ultrasonographic imaging. More specifically, ultra high frequency transducers, with a potential of using sophisticated software, are now able to provide researchers with extended field of view images even of small laboratory animals, such as mice. 3D ultrasonography relies on the acquisition of images in multiple scan planes from which a 3D image is created. 4D ultrasonography provides functional data in three dimensions, whereas microbubble contrast agents have shown clinical potential for characterizing blood flow in abdominal vessels, especially with the use of ultra high frequency transducers and 3D imaging. Doppler imaging provides information on blood flow and abdominal organs blood supply. Finally, ultrasound- guided biopsy and injection of substances are important tools in biomedical research protocols.
Swine model in cardiopulmonary resuscitation research
Authors: XANTHOS (Θ. ΞΑΝΘΟΣ) Th.
Published: February 2018

Cardiac Arrest (CA) constitutes a real medical emergency. Various experimental models have been developed in order to test experimental treatments. Animal models that have been used in CA research are rodents, rabbits, cats and dogs, primates and swine. Among these, swine are used more often. The reason behind this choice is mostly its close resemblance to the human cardiac anatomy and physiology. Various haemodynamic variables have been investigated as predictors of the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Coronary Perfusion Pressure (CPP) is the only proven predictor for ROSC. CPP, which is responsible for myocardial perfusion, greatly augments during chest compressions. ROSC and therefore survival after CA has been associated with CCP values greater than 15 mmHg for humans and 25 mmHg for animals. For the experimental induction of CA various electric sources have been used. All these experimental devices could be potentially dangerous for researchers, even though, no incidence of electrocution has been reported in the international literature. The ordinary cadmium battery appears to be safer and is an extremely effective way of inducing cardiac arrest.
Animal models of osteoporosis
Authors: LELOVAS (Π. ΛΕΛΟΒΑΣ) P.
Published: February 2018

Osteoporosis is an important systemic disorder, affecting mainly Caucasian women, with a diverse and multifactorial aetiology. A large variety of animal species, such as rodents, rabbits, dogs, sheep and primates, have been used as animal models in osteoporosis research. Their use enhanced our understanding on the etiology of osteoporosis. Additionally, many therapeutic regimes have entered clinical practice after evaluation on animal models. Experimental protocols leading to bone loss include hormonal interventions (ovariectomy, orchidectomy, hypophysectomy, parathyroidectomy), immobilization, alcohol abuse osteoporosis and osteoporosis induced by food manipulation. Methods of bone mass evaluation, used on animal models, are biochemical markers, densitometry, magnetic resonance imaging, histomorphometry and bone mechanical testing.
Severe Combined ImmunoDeficient (SCID) mice in biomedical research
Authors: TSINGOTJIDOU (Α.Σ. ΤΣΙΓΚΟΤΖΙΔΟΥ) A. S.
Published: February 2018

Mice have been used in cancer research since the last decade of the 19th century. In 1921 inbred strains, that were predisposed to developing tumors, were bred and became available to cancer researchers. The nude mouse, a hairless mutantdiscovered in 1962, is immunodeficient, and thus does not reject tumor transplantations from other species. It lacks a thymus, which is essential for the production of T-cells, lymphocytes that are essential for cellular immunity. In 1983 mice with severecombined immune deficiency (Prkdcscld, commonly referred to as seid) were discovered. Seid mice are even more immunodeficient than nude mice. Tumors from other species are transplanted into seid mice easier. In 1988 two groups of researchers almostsimultaneously succeeded in transplanting elements of the human immune system into seid mice. They had used totally different approaches in creating their human-mouse chimeras. This chimera, named the hu-PBL- seid, was also able to produce humantetanus antibodies when injected with tetanus toxin, further demonstrating that its immune system was functioning as though itwas naturally human. Severe Combined ImmunoDeficient (seid) mice are homozygous for the mutant autosomal recessive gene"seid", which is located at the centromeric end of chromosome 16. Since these mice lack mature, functional lymphocytes, they arehighly susceptible to lethal opportunistic infections. For this reason, they should be maintained in a pathogen free environment. Someseid mice, by an unexplained mechanism, eventually develop minute levels of Β cells and a rudimentary antibody response and are commonly referred to as "leaky". Different genetic manipulations are used to overcome this obstacle. The transfer of the seid mutation onto the Non-Obese Diabetic (NOD), BEIGE (beige mutation results in cytotoxic Τ cell and macrophage defects as well as selective impairment of NK cell functions) and other strains has led to better engraftment of transferred human cells. Lately, mice with targeted mutations have been engineered, including animals with disruption of the recombination activating gene-1(Rag-1) or (Rag-2), β2 microglobulin (B2m) and perforin (PRF1) genes. Any possible combination of the above mentioned mutantshas led to the development of humanized mouse models providing more straightforward assay systems for the study of the human hematolymphoid system. Our personal experience on the use οι seid mice in biomedical research relates to the development of animal models to investigate cancer metastasis in human bone.