bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental and Geographic Analyses of Spatial Biases in Face Drawings Produced by Children
Authors: Ostrofsky Justin
Published: April 2015

A recent study of a large sample of children living in London demonstrated that their imagination-based self-portraits exhibited systematic drawing biases such as depicting the head too round and the eyes too far up the head. The present study aimed to replicate and extend on these findings in a sample of self-portraits produced by children from all around the world to determine if these drawing biases are universal or culturally specific to children living in Western Europe. Developmentally, children ranging in age from 3 to 11 years old were observed to draw the head too round and the eyes too high up the head. Children ranging in age from 3 to 8 years old, but not children ranging in age from 9 to 11 years old, were observed to draw the mouth too high up the head. As the children grew in age from 3 to 11 years old, these biases persisted, but there were linear trends for the biases of drawing the eyes and mouth too high up the head to become less exaggerated with increasing age. Geographically, children living in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South/Central America were all observed to exhibit these three systematic biases, indicating that these are universal drawing biases not affected by the geographic location the children were raised in.
Understanding and Preventing Financial Fraud Against Older Citizens in Chinese Society
Authors: Li Jessica C. M. , Yu (Yolanda) Mengyan , Wong Gabriel T. W. , Ngan Raymond M. H.
Published: April 2015

This study examines the public discourse on financial fraud against older citizens in Chinese society using six focus groups with 45 stakeholders comprising social workers, police officers, caregivers, nurses, community representatives, and insurance and banking personnel. This study uses qualitative data to describe the patterns and social features that facilitate this specific type of crime in Hong Kong. The narratives of the community stakeholders reveal several specific social features of Hong Kong that contribute to financial fraud against older persons, such as traditional Chinese values and ideologies, increasing cross-border activities, the Internet and technological advancements, and unfavourable economic situations. The results of this study support the assumptions of the routine activity approach and have a number of theoretical and practical implications.
Theoretical Principles of Simulation-Based Sales Communication Training
Authors: Koponen Jonna , Julkunen Saara
Published: April 2015

Background. Simulation-based instruction can be applied successfully to communication skills training. However, communication skills training (CST) for salespeople is a somewhat underdeveloped area, and only limited knowledge of different theoretical approaches and their application to sales education is available.

Aim. We introduce (a) situated learning theory (SLT), and connect it to the theoretical framework of communication in the disciplines (CID), and (b) principles of drama education. We apply these theories to simulation-based training in communication skills.

Method. We use a Sales Theatre Workshop (STW) as an example to show how SLT and CID can guide instructional design. We explain how the principles of drama education guided the design of role-play with simulated clients and of a structured debriefing process.

Results. Using SLT, the CID theoretical framework and the principles of drama education allowed successful communication learning in the STW. Following these theoretical ideas, we chose a specific communication context, created authentic client cases, emphasized reflective participation and a psychologically safe learning environment, and made the experience applicable to real sales situations.

Conclusions. We conclude by stating how SLT and the principles of drama education can be applied to simulation-based training. We propose more investigation of the debriefing process as a subject for future research.
Investigation of inherited diseases in cats
Authors: Gandolfi Barbara , Alhaddad Hasan
Published: April 2015

Practical relevance:

The health of the cat mirrors a complex interaction between its environment (nurture) and its genetics (nature). To date, over 70 genetic mutations (variants) have been defined in the cat; many involve diseases, structural anomalies, coat color and texture, including numerous that are clinically relevant. This trend will continue as more of the feline genome is deciphered. Genetic testing, and eventually whole-genome sequencing, should become routine diagnostic tools in feline healthcare within the foreseeable future.

Global importance:

Cat breeds have dispersed around the world. Thus, feline medicine clinicians should be aware of breeds common to their region and common mutations found within those regional populations. Random-bred populations of domestic cats can also have defined genetic characteristics and mutations, which are equally worthy of understanding by feline medicine clinicians.

Outline:

This article reviews the chronology and evolution of genetic and genomic tools pertinent to feline medicine. Possible strategies for mapping genetic traits and defects, and how these impact on feline health, are also discussed. The focus is on three historical periods: (1) research conducted before the availability of the cat genome; (2) research performed immediately after the availability of sequences of the cat genome; and (3) current research that goes beyond one cat genome and utilizes the genome sequences of many cats.

Evidence base:

The data presented are extracted from peer-reviewed publications pertaining to mutation identification, and relevant articles concerning heritable traits and/or diseases. The authors draw upon their personal experience and expertise in feline genetics.
Minimally invasive surgery for pedal digital deformity: an audit of complications using national benchmark indicators
Authors: Gilheany Mark , Baarini Omar , Samaras Dean
Published: April 2015

Background

There is increasing global interest and performance of minimally invasive foot surgery (MIS) however, limited evidence is available in relation to complications associated with MIS for digital deformity correction. The aim of this prospective audit is to report the surgical and medical complications following MIS for digital deformity against standardised clinical indicators.

Methods

A prospective clinical audit of 179 patients who underwent MIS to reduce simple and complex digital deformities was conducted between June 2011 and June 2013. All patients were followed up to a minimum of 12 months post operatively. Data was collected according to a modified version of the Australian Council of Healthcare standards (ACHS) clinical indicator program. The audit was conducted in accordance with the National Research Ethics Service (NRES) guidelines on clinical audit.

Results

The surgical complications included 1 superficial infection (0.53%) and 2 under‐corrected digits (0.67%), which required revision surgery. Two patients who underwent isolated complex digital corrections had pain due to delayed union (0.7%), which resolved by 6 months post‐op. No neurovascular compromise and no medical complications were encountered. The results compare favourably to rates reported in the literature for open reduction of digital deformity.

Conclusion

This audit has illustrated that performing MIS to address simple and complex digital deformity results in low complication rates compared to published standards. MIS procedures were safely performed in a range of clinical settings, on varying degrees of digital deformity and on a wide range of ages and health profiles. Further studies investigating the effectiveness of these techniques are warranted and should evaluate long term patient reported outcome measures, as well as developing treatment algorithms to guide clinical decision making.
Evaluation of ciprofloxacin and metronidazole encapsulated biomimetic nanomatrix gel on
Enterococcus faecalis
and
Treponema denticola
Authors: Kaushik Sagar N , Scoffield Jessica , Andukuri Adinarayana , Alexander Grant C , Walker Taneidra , Kim Seokgon , Choi Sung Chul , Brott Brigitta C , Eleazer Paul D , Lee Jin-Yong , Wu Hui , Childers Noel K , Jun Ho-Wook , Park Jae-Hong , Cheon Kyounga
Published: April 2015

Background

A triple antibiotic mixture (ciprofloxacin; CF, metronidazole; MN, and minocycline; MC) has been used for dental root canal medicaments in pulp regeneration therapy. However, tooth discolorations, cervical root fractures, and inadequate pulp-dentin formation have been reported due to the triple antibiotic regimen. Therefore, an antibiotic encapsulated biomimetic nanomatrix gel was developed to minimize the clinical limitations and maximize a natural healing process in root canal infections. In this study, minimal bacterial concentrations (MBC) of the selected antibiotics (CF and MN) were tested in 14 representative endodontic bacterial species. Then MBC of each CF and MN were separately encapsulated within the injectable self-assembled biomimetic nanomatrix gel to evaluate antibacterial level on
Enterococcus faecalis
and
Treponema denticola
.

Results

Antibiotic concentrations lower than 0.2 μg/mL of CF and MN demonstrated antibacterial activity on the 14 endodontic species. Furthermore, 6 different concentrations of CF and MN separately encapsulated with the injectable self-assembled biomimetic nanomatrix gel demonstrated antibacterial activity on
Enterococcus faecalis
and
Treponema denticola
at the lowest tested concentration of 0.0625 μg/mL.

Conclusions

These results suggest that each CF and MN encapsulated within the injectable self-assembled biomimetic nanomatrix gel demonstrated antibacterial effects, which could be effective for the root canal disinfection while eliminating MC. In the long term, the antibiotic encapsulated injectable self-assembled biomimetic nanomatrix gel can provide a multifunctional antibiotic delivery method with potential root regeneration. Further studies are currently underway to evaluate the effects of combined CF and MN encapsulated within the injectable self-assembled biomimetic nanomatrix gel on clinical samples.
Imaging of phase changes and fluid movement in and between reservoirs at Teal South
Authors: Islam Nayyer , Ezawi Mohamed A. , Pennington Wayne D.
Published: April 2015

We have reexamined the poststack seismic legacy and time-lapse data sets from the Teal South field in the Gulf of Mexico for insight into regional pressure changes from production at one reservoir and its effects on neighboring unproduced reservoirs. We support previous predictions of oil and gas leakage from neighboring reservoirs by providing direct evidence for leakage through 3D mapping of the hydrocarbons themselves. The use of the squared instantaneous amplitude as an attribute allowed visualization of the large amplitude changes while minimizing the appearance of noise. The use of translucency in the 3D time-lapse difference volumes assisted in identifying features of interest that had been unrecognized in earlier studies. For example, this investigation found that hydrocarbons appeared to have escaped from one small (unproduced) reservoir through its spill point, only to be trapped in a nearby structure, from which it ultimately escaped through that trap’s spill point. Such fluid migration can occur in a period of a few years due to production, not geologic time. Time-lapse studies such as the one presented here can be very helpful in identifying such fluid movement, particularly in highly porous and unconsolidated reservoirs that are highly sensitive to pore-fluid type and stress changes.
Anterior and posterior subareas of the dorsolateral frontal cortex in socially relevant decisions based on masked affect expressions
Authors: Prochnow Denise , Brunheim Sascha , Kossack Hannes , Eickhoff Simon B. , Markowitsch Hans J. , Seitz Rüdiger J.
Published: April 2015

Socially-relevant decisions are based on clearly recognizable but also not consciously accessible affective stimuli. We studied the role of the dorsolateral frontal cortex (DLFC) in decision-making on masked affect expressions using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Our paradigm permitted us to capture brain activity during a pre-decision phase when the subjects viewed emotional expressions below the threshold of subjective awareness, and during the decision phase, which was based on verbal descriptions as the choice criterion. Using meta-analytic connectivity modeling, we found that the preparatory phase of the decision was associated with activity in a right-posterior portion of the DLFC featuring co-activations in the left-inferior frontal cortex. During the subsequent decision a right-anterior and more dorsal portion of the DLFC became activated, exhibiting a different co-activation pattern. These results provide evidence for partially independent sub-regions within the DLFC, supporting the notion of dual associative processes in intuitive judgments.
First Record of Pediobius pyrgo Walker (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) in South America and its Emergence from Egg Sacs of Latrodectus geometricus C. L. Koch (Araneae: Theridiidae)
Authors: Schoeninger Karine , Pádua Diego Galvão de , Salvatierra Lidianne , Oliveira Marcio Luiz de
Published: April 2015

We record the first time the occurrence of Pediobius pyrgo (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) for South America. This is also the first report of P. pyrgo emerging from egg sacs of Latrodectus geometricus C. L. Koch (Araneae: Theridiidae).

Primeiro Registro de Pediobius pyrgo (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) na América do Sul e sua Emergência em Sacos de Ovos de Latrodectus geometricus C. L. Koch (Araneae: Theridiidae)

Resumo. Registramos pela primeira vez a ocorrência de Pediobius pyrgo (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) para a América do Sul. Este também é o primeiro relato de P. pyrgo emergindo de sacos de ovos de Latrodectus geometricus C. L. Koch (Araneae: Theridiidae).
Incentive Contracts in Serial Stochastic Projects
Authors: Chen Tony , Klastorin Ted , Wagner Michael R.
Published: April 2015

In this paper we propose an incentive payment contract for stochastic projects defined by a series of stages or tasks that are outsourced to independent subcontractors. Projects defined by sequentially completed independent stages are common in new product development and other high-risk projects. Our goal is to maximize the client’s expected discounted profit. Our proposed contract reflects the convex time-cost trade-off that is well known in the project scheduling literature. We show that this type of contract dominates a fixed price contract with respect to expected client’s profit and schedule performance, regardless of payment timing considerations. Using a piecewise linear approximation, we show that our contract is a generalization of an incentive/disincentive contract that is frequently used in practice. We show how our contract can be used to find the optimal due date and penalties/bonuses in an incentive/disincentive contract. We compare this contract with several variations and discuss implications for both the client and subcontractors.
Looking at the impact and management of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: April 2015

Up to 40% of children may have allergic rhinitis, which can, among other adverse outcomes, undermine quality of life, exacerbate comorbid asthma, and impair school and examination performance. Once-daily long-acting antihistamines or intranasal corticosteroids are the usual first-line treatments for children with allergic rhinitis. Second-line treatments include short-courses of combinations of an intranasal corticosteroid and topical decongestant or, particularly before exams, oral steroids. Although not life threatening, school nurses need to be cognisant of several issues surrounding allergic rhinitis.
Arabella's learning journey
Authors: Smith Sue
Published: April 2015

In this online article, Sue Smith talks about offering free funded places for two, three and four-year-olds, and how you might persuade families to choose you rather than a nursery.
Latest developments
Authors: Smith Sue , Helme Tina
Published: April 2015

Send your letters, news stories or latest developments to: The Editor, Child Care, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London, SE24 0PB email: childcare@markallengroup.com
Positive relationships
Authors: Thomas Beth
Published: April 2015

The ability to form friendships is an essential skill for overcoming transitions, particularly when starting a new setting and there is much that childminders can do to help children.
Apex animals – the badger
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: April 2015

This is the first article in a series that will explore the world of apex animals, their lifestyles, and their place in storytelling, helping to bring these animals a little bit closer to children.
Mapping out where treasure lies
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: April 2015

In this extract from Planning for Learning Through Pirates [Practical Pre-School Books] we explore activities based on the foundation stage areas of learning… X marks the spot.
Experimental endocrinology in Endocrinological Research Centre
Authors: Babichev V N , Kandror V I
Published: April 2015

The present paper briefly outlines the main lines of experimental endocrinological research carried out at Endocrinological Research Centre started in the first experimental laboratories and continued up to the present time.
Serum fibronectin content in the patients suffering from type 1 diabetes mellitus with microangiopathies since the childhood and in the subjects presenting with obesity
Authors: Mogil’nitskaya L A
Published: April 2015

Micro- and macroangiopathies are the main causes of disability and mortality among the patients suffering from diabetes mellitus. Endothelial dysfunction is the early and important condition preceding the development of diabetic angiopathies. The serum fibronectin content may be one of the markers of endothelial dysfunction. We have documented the enhanced serum fibronectin content in the patients suffering from type 1 diabetes mellitus with concomitant microangiopathies and in the subjects presenting with obesity. The rise in the serum fibronectin level correlated with the body mass index, parameters of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Alteration of these parameters discovered in the present study may be used as the markers of endothelial dysfunction associated with the above pathological conditions.
The development of endocrinology in Russia (On the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the Russian Association of Endocrinologists)
Authors: Melnichenko Galina Afnasyevna
Published: April 2015

The present article briefly describes the historical development of endocrinology in Russia with special reference to the most noticeable achievements obtained by the researchers and clinicians of this country.
The influence of the new hypoglycemic agent Limiglidol on the parameters of hemostasis in experimental diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kucherenko A F , Spasov A A , Naumenko L V
Published: April 2015

Platelet aggregation was assessed by the method of G. Born modified as described by Z.A. Gabbasov. Blood viscosity was measured using an AKR-2 rotating-type viscometer - rheological blood analyzer at six shear rates (10 s-1, 20 s-1, 50 s-1, 100 s-1, 200 s-1, and 300 s-1) simulating different intensities of the blood flow through the vessels. The model of arterial thrombosis induced by electrical current was constructed based on the method of G. Guglielmi et al (1991). Gliclazide was used in the studies of Limiglidol antiaggregant and antithrombotic properties and pentoxifylline in the studies of the influence of Limiglidol on rheological blood properties. It was shown that Limiglidol inhibited platelet aggregation and prolonged the time of thrombus formation. It proved to be superior to gliclazide in terms of these activities and reduced blood viscosity to a higher degree than pentoxifylline.
Difficulties of differential diagnostics of primary hyperparathyroidism and sarcoidosis of cervical lymph nodes
Authors: Severskaya N V , Semin D Yu , Ilyin A A , Ryzhenkova M I , Chebotareva I V
Published: April 2015

A case of isolated sarcoidosis of cervical lymph nodes is reported that was first erroneously interpreted as parathyroid adenoma. The patient was a 70 year-old woman presenting with hypercalcemia and elevated blood parathormone level. The ultrasound study showed the presence of a tissue mass measuring 1.5 cm in the projection of the inferior right parathyroid gland. The scintigraphic study with 99mTc MIBI demonstrated the accumulation of the radiopharmacological agent in the tissue mass that was identified as an adenoma of the parathyroid gland. The surgical removal of this neoplasm together with the adjacent lymph nodes resulted in the normalization of the blood calcium and parathormone levels. The histological study revealed sarcoidosis of lymph nodes in the absence of lesions in other organs. A literature review of the problem pertaining to hypercalcemia associated with sarcoidosis of cervical lymph nodes is presented with special reference to the difficulties encountered in differential diagnostics of this condition.
Federal clinical recommendations on diagnostics and treatment of endocrine ophthalmopathy associated with autoimmune thyroid pathology
Authors: Dedov I I , Melnichenko G A , Sviridenko N Yu , Troshina E A , Fadeev V V , Belovalova I M , Sheremeta M S , Rumyantsev P L , Petunina N A , Grineva E N , Strongin L G , Neroyev V V , Katargina L A , Saakian S V , Panteleeva O G , Valsky V V , Brovkina A F , Atarshikov D S , Bessmertnaya E G , Lipatov D V , Astakhov Yu S , Saydasheva E I , Zolotarev A V , Dogadova L I
Published: April 2015

Endocrine ophthalmopathy (EOP) is a multidisciplinary problem at the intersection of endocrinology and ophthalmology. The patients presenting with this condition experience deficit of adequate medical aid due to the poor cooperation between ophthalmologists and endocrinologists. There are practically no specialized centres in this country where the patients with EOP could receive the combined treatment of this pathology including the surgical intervention. Taken together, late diagnostics and delayed seeking the efficacious medical assistance, the absence of stable compensation of the functional disorders of the thyroid gland, erroneous identification of the phase of the disease, and incorrect choice of the methods for its treatment, the lack of coordination and consistency in the actions of ophthalmologists and endocrinologists are responsible for the low effectiveness of EOP treatment. On the other hand, the absence of the unified approach to diagnostics and treatment of endocrine ophthalmopathy, the necessity of introducing the international experience gained in this field into the routine clinical practice and pooling efforts of representatives of different medical disciplines (endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, radiologists, endocrine surgeons, and neurosurgeons) created the prerequisites for the solution of the EOP problems and gave impetus to the development of the recommendations being proposed.
Predominance of Cryptosporidium parvum genotype among diarrheic children from Egypt as an indicator for zoonotic transmission
Authors: Eraky Maysa Ahmad , El-Hamshary Azza Mohammed-Salah , Hamadto Hassan Hassan , Abdallah Kareem Fetouh , Abdel-Hafed Wafaa Moustafa , Abdel-Had Soha
Published: April 2015

Cryptosporidium is a genus of zoonotic pathogens transmissible from a variety of animals to humans and is a considerable public health concern. It is a significant cause of diarrheal disease in developing and industrialized nations. Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium hominis are the main agents of cryptosporidiosis in humans. In this study we identified the genotypes of the Cryptosporidium isolates from clinical samples from diarrheic children using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analyses of the TRAP-C2 gene (Thrompodin Related Adhesive Protein). A total of 430 fecal specimens from 1 to 14 years children were collected from inpatient and outpatient clinics of Benha University, Educational and Children Specialized Hospitals, Benha, Qalubyia, and were microscopically examined for Cryptosporidium spp. All infected samples were also analyzed using nested PCR. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the (266-366 bp) of TRAP-C2 gene was also used to detect and identify Cryptosporidium spp. in PCR- positive samples. The results showed that 50 (11.63%) of the specimens were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. Genomic amplification and restriction digestion of the PCR products by BstETI, Hae III for TRAP-C2 gene restriction enzymes revealed that 82% (41/50) had C. parvum, 12% (6/50) had C. hominis, and three (3/50) samples (6%) had mixed infections. In conclusion, elevated prevalence of C. parvum, suggesting animal-human (zoonotic) transmission and further investigations are required to determine the subgenotypes of C. parvum to clarify the mode of transmission in order to improve the control measures.
Wild boar density drives Metastrongylus infection in earthworm
Authors: Nagy Gábor , Csivincsik Ágnes , Sugár László
Published: April 2015

Larvae of Metastrongylus spp. lungworms infect wild boar (Sus scrofa) definitive hosts through earthworms (Lumbricidae). We compared the abundance and Metastrongylus spp. larval infection measures of earthworms between two areas (both in Zselic, Hungary, 2012) characterized by markedly different wild boar population densities. Estimated wild boar density was 0.03 animal/ha in free range area and 1.03 animal/ha in enclosure. The mean abundance of earthworm populations (mostly Allolobophora, Aporrectodea, and Lumbricus spp.) was assessed by analysing 140-140 soil samples. The assesment of Metastrongylus spp. larval infection measures was based on cca 100-100 earthworms derived from the two areas. The abundance of earthworms and their Metastrongylus spp. larval infection measures (prevalence and mean intensity) were significantly lower in the free range than in the enclosure. Furthermore, using a finer scale within the enclosure, we compared wild boar feeding sites (n = 30) to other sites (n = 75). Earthworm populations were significantly more abundant and carried significantly more prevalent and more abundant larval lungworm infections at the former sites. These results suggest that high wild boar density and forage supplementation in enclosures increase both the abundance and the larval Metastrongylus infections of earthworms
Serological screening of selected microsporidia in HPV-positive women
Authors: Adam Jozef , Valenčáková Alexandra , Halánová Monika , Danišová Oľga , Gorbarová Katarína , Čisláková Lýdia
Published: April 2015

Microsporidiosis is considered to be emerging opportunistic infection in immunocompromised individuals worldwide. The aim of this study was to identify the specific serum antibodies to intestinal microsporidia Encephalitozoon cuniculi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis in women with Human Papillomavirus HPV and without HPV by the indirect immunofluorescence (IFA). From total number of 669 examined women, 225 were HPV positive and 444 women HPV negative. Overall the study comprised of 10.8% women with positive result for presence of E. cuniculi antibodies. In group 1 (HPV-positive women) it was more than 28% and in group 2 (HPV-negative women) it was less than 2% (p<0.001). E. intestinalis infection was found in total of 4.48% women, in group 1 it was present in less than 6% and in group 2 in less than 4% of women.
A new Gyrodactylus strain on brown trout (Salmo trutta) in Jänisjärvi, Russian Karelia, and a literature revision of salmonid parasites of the genus Gyrodactylus in North-Western Russia and adjacent areas
Authors: Ieshko Eugeny , Lebedeva Dar’ya , Lumme Jaakko
Published: April 2015

A Gyrodactylus parasite infected juveniles of brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) in a hatchery in Lake Janisjarvi, Russian Karelia. Molecular identification by ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 of ribosomal DNA indicated that the infection was caused by a non-segregating hybrid clone between unknown Gyrodactylus species and Gyrodactylus teuchis Lautraite, Blanc, Thiery, Daniel & Vigneulle, 1999, described from brown trout collected in France. The mitochondrial CO1 was sequenced from the hybrid, but it is not available from pure G. teuchis from type locality. The mitochondrial DNA was an independent clade among the wageneri group parasites, differing from the nearest relative G. derjavinoides by 19%. Morphometric measurements of the Janisjarvi parasite were compared with separate (host specific) G. salaris strains from farmed rainbow trout and salmon in Lake Onega, and with available data on G. teuchis from Western Europe, Austria and Poland. All isolates were distinguishable by morphometry, and the measurements are a useful primary diagnostic tool for the salmonid parasites in Karelian great lakes and fish farms. Pure G. teuchis is not found on Russian territory, and the other parent of the hybrid has not been discovered yet in any other country. A mini review of Gyrodactylus on salmonids in the Russian Karelia is presented.
The in vitro antimalarial interaction of 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone and α-mangostin with mefloquine/artesunate
Authors: Chaijaroenkul Wanna , Na-Bangchang Kesara
Published: April 2015

Multidrug resistance Plasmodium falciparum is the major health problem in Thailand. Discovery and development of new antimalarial drugs with novel modes of action is urgently required. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antimalarial interaction of 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone and α-mangostin with the standard antimalarial drugs mefloquine and artesunate in chloroquine sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine resistant (K1) P. falciparum clones in vitro. Median (range) IC50 (drug concentration which produces 50% parasite growth inhibition) values of the 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone, α-mangostin, artesunate and mefloquine for 3D7 vs K1 clones were 1.5 (0.9-2.1) vs 1.2 (1.1-1.6) μM, 17.9 (15.7.0-20.0) vs 9.7 (6.0-14.0) μM, 1.0 (0.4-3.0) vs 1.7 (1.0-2.5) nM, and 13.3 (11.1-13.3) vs 7.1 (6.7-12.2) nM, respectively. Analysis of isobologram and combination index (CI) of 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone with artesunate or mefloquine showed synergistic and indifference antimalarial interaction, respectively. α-mangostin-artesunate combination exhibited a slight antagonistic effect of antimalarial interaction, whereas α-mangostin and mefloquine combination showed indifference interaction in both clones. The combination of 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone with α-mangostin showed the synergistic antimalarial interaction in both clones
Two new Dactylogyrus species (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) D. angorae and D. turcicus from Capoeta angorae and C. mauricii endemic fishes in Turkey
Authors: Aydogdu Ali , Molnár Kálmán , Emre Yılmaz , Emre Nesrin
Published: April 2015

Two new Dactylogyrus spp., D. angorae and D. turcicus have been described from the gills of the endemic cyprinid fishes, Capoeta angorae and C. mauricii from the Anatolian Region of Turkey. The shape of the anchors, hooks and the copulation organ of both species differ from those of the Dactylogyrus spp. found on other Capoeta species known from the Ponto-Caspian and Tigris-Euphrates regions.
First record of Toxoplasma gondii in Chaetophractus villosus in Argentina
Authors: Kin Marta S. , Fort Marcelo , Giménez Hugo D. , Casanave Emma B.
Published: April 2015

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular apicomplexan parasite that causes abortion and reproductive disorder in domestic animals. T. gondii is a common worldwide disease in homeothermic animals, including birds and humans. The aim of the present study was to determine the presence of antibodies against T. gondii in the armadillo Chaetophractus villosus in the province of La Pampa, Argentina. Serum samples were collected from 150 individuals (70 males and 80 females). For serological detection of T. gondii, a latex agglutination test was first performed and then positive sera were confirmed with an indirect hemagglutination test, using 1:4 to 1:64 dilutions. Results showed that 27% (41) of the samples presented titers for antibodies against T. gondii. There were not significant differences between the presence of antibodies against T. gondii and age or sexes of the armadillos. Results show that presence of T. gondii antibodies in armadillos were associated with presence of pigs, and sheep, however there was not association with chickens and dairy cattle in capture site. T. gondii has an important presence in C. villosus population, suggesting a potential zoonotic risk for humans and wildlife animals when C. villosus meats are consumed raw or undercooked. This is the first record of the presence of antibodies against T. gondii in C. villosus.
Buxtonellosis and coccidiosis of cattles in Northern Serbia
Authors: Kočiš Jožef , Ilić Tamara , Becskei Zsolt , Radisavljević Katarina , Dimitrijević Sanda
Published: April 2015

The study presents the results of a two-year research of protozoan infections of cattles from the Northern-Bačka district (Voјvodina, Serbia). The research was conducted on cow-farms and in private cattle-breeding households, with variuos levels of hygenie. The study included 224 specimens (71 calves, 48 hifers and 105 cows). 22.91% of examined heifers and 15.23% of cows were infected with the ciliate Buxtonella sulcata. The presence of coccidiosis was detected in 45.07% of the calves, 14.58% of the heifers and 6.67% of the cows. The clinical signs of diarrhoea were established in all of the specimens which had more than 1,500 cysts of B.sulcata in 1g of faeces. In the examined calves the number of oocysts was less than 1500 in 1g of faeces, so the coccidiosis did not influence the incidence of the diarrhoea. The results show the first diagnostic record of the ciliate B.sulcata of bovines in Serbia, and this finding contributes to the existing knowledge about the etiopathogenesis of protozoan disease of cattle in this area.
Phylogenetic relationships among Linguatula serrata isolates from Iran based on 18S rRNA and mitochondrial cox1 gene sequences
Authors: Ghorashi Seyed Ali , Tavassoli Mousa , Peters Andrew , Shamsi Shokoofeh , Hajipour Naser
Published: April 2015

The phylogenetic relationships among seven Linguatula serrata (L. serrata) isolates collected from cattle, goats, sheep, dogs and camels in different geographical locations of Iran were investigated using partial 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene sequences. The nucleotide sequences were analysed in order to determine the phylogenetic relationships between the isolates. Higher sequence diversity and intraspecies variation was observed in the cox1 gene compared to 18S rRNA sequences. Phylogenetic analysis of the cox1 gene placed all L. serrata isolates in a sister clade to L. arctica. The Mantel regression analysis revealed no association between genetic variations and host species or geographical location, perhaps due to the small sample size. However, genetic variations between L. serrata isolates in Iran and those isolated in other parts of the world may exist and could reveal possible evolutionary relationships.
Molecular diagnosis of natural fasciolosis by DNA detection in sheep faeces
Authors: Carnevale Silvana , Pantano María Laura , Kamenetzky Laura , Malandrini Jorge Bruno , Soria Claudia Cecilia , Velásquez Jorge Néstor
Published: April 2015

Fasciolosis is an important parasitic zoonosis considered the most important helminth infection of ruminants in tropical countries. The aim of this study was to develop a PCR assay for the sensitive and specific detection of F. hepatica in formalin preserved sheep faeces. A 405-bp fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene of F. hepatica was amplified from stool samples of infected sheep. The PCR assay showed a detection limit of 20 pg of F. hepatica DNA. No cross-reactions were observed with samples containing coccidian oocysts or gastrointestinal nematodes eggs. Our PCR technique showed to be effective for specific detection of F. hepatica infections in sheep.
Parasitic fauna of a yellow-legged gull colony in the island of Escombreras (South-eastern Mediterranean) in close proximity to a landfill site: potential effects on cohabiting species
Authors: Parejo Sandra Hervías , Martínez-Carrasco Carlos , Diaz Julia I. , Chitimia Lidia , Ortiz Juana , Mayo Elvira , Ybáñez Rocío Ruiz de
Published: April 2015

We identified the ectoparasites and helminth fauna of yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis michahellis), breeding near to a solid waste landfill, and compared infection levels with those of other yellow-legged gull colonies. Moreover, we analysed correlations between parasites and sex and body condition of yellow-legged gulls, co-infections and the helminth community structure in order to propose the role of this species as reservoir of certain parasites. We also discuss the potential transmission of parasites between the yellow-legged gull and the endangered Audouin’s gull, because interactions between these two species, such as kleptoparasitism and predation, occur frequently around colonies. The following species were recorded: Ornithodorus capensis (Arthropoda); Cosmocephalus obvelatus, Paracuaria adunca, Eucoleus contortus, Tetrameres skrjabini and Contracaecum sp. (Nematoda); Tetrabothrius cylindraceus (Cestoda); Acanthotrema armata, Cardiocephaloides longicollis and Ornithobilharzia intermedia (Digenea). Tetrabothrius cylindraceus, A. armata and O. capensis are new parasite records for this host. The dependence of yellow-legged-gulls on fishery discards is supported by the dominance of parasites transmitted through marine intermediate hosts with interest to fisheries in the study area. However, the shift in diet from natural resources to food derived from human activities seems not to affect the parasitic fauna of yellow-legged gull. Besides of direct physical contact between individuals in nesting and resting habitats, the high availability of fishery discards could increase the risk of Audouin’s gulls to be infected by common parasites of yellow-legged gull.
Nosema sp. PM-1, a new isolate of microsporidian from infected Papilio machaon Linnaeus, based on ultrastructure and molecular identification
Authors: Liu Tie , Xu Jinshan , Luo Bo , Chen Jie , Li Zeng , Li Tian , Pan Guoqing , Li Xueyan , Zhou Zeyang
Published: April 2015

A new microsporidium, Nosema sp. PM-1, was first isolated from Papilio machaon Linnaeus. The spore shape of the PM-1 isolate was a long oval with an average size of 3.22 μm × 1.96 μm. Ultrastructure observation showed that PM-1 had a typical Nosema common diplokaryotic nuclei structure with 10-13 polar filament coils, spore wall, plasma membrane, and anchoring disk. The complete rRNA gene sequences were obtained by polymerase chain reaction amplification and each rRNA unit was arrayed as follows: 5′-LSU (2497 bp)-ITS (179 bp)-SSU (1232 bp)-IGS (278 bp)-5S (115 bp)-3′, which was the same as typical Nosema. The phylogenetic trees of rRNA, DNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit, and tubulin genes all show that PM-1 was a sister to the clade comprising Nosema bombycis, Nosema spodopterae, and Nosema sp. PX1. The spore morphology, ultrastructure, and complete rRNA structure indicate that this isolate assigned to the ˝true˝ Nosema group, can parasitized in Papilio machaon Linnaeus, which provides a wider host range for Nosema.
Using the likelihood ratio to evaluate allowable total error – an example with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
Authors: Åsberg Arne , Odsæter Ingrid Hov , Carlsen Sven Magnus , Mikkelsen Gustav
Published: April 2015

Allowable total error is derived in many ways, often from data on biological variation in normal individuals. We present a new principle for evaluating allowable total error: What are the diagnostic consequences of allowable total errors in terms of errors in likelihood ratio (LR)? Glycated hemoglobin A

We estimated a function for LR of HbA

Measuring HbA

These principles of evaluating allowable total error can be applied to any diagnostically used analyte where the distribution of the analyte’s concentration is known in patients with and without the disease in a clinically relevant population. In the example used, the allowable total error of 6% leads to very erroneous LRs, suggesting that the NGSP limits of ±6% are too liberal.
Interfacing of microbial cells with nanoparticles: Simple and cost-effective preparation of a highly sensitive microbial ethanol biosensor
Authors: Šefčovičová Jana , Filip Jaroslav , Tkac Jan
Published: April 2015

Various types of carbon nanoparticles were directly mixed with microbial cells of Gluconobacter oxydans within a 3-D bionanocomposite in order to prepare a highly sensitive ethanol biosensor with a short response time. From all carbonaceous nanomaterials tested, single- or multi-walled carbon nanotubes provided the highest sensitivity of detection (117-121 μA cm
Characterisation and coagulation performance of polysilicate–ferric–zinc
Authors: Xu Xia , Shen Rong-Yan , Liang Yu-Ting , Yu Shui-Li , Wang Li-Ping
Published: April 2015

A new type of coagulant, polysilicate-ferric-zinc (PSFZn) with different Fe/Zn molar ratios, was synthesised using water glass (industrial grade, w(SiO
Efficient solvent-free synthesis of bis(indolyl)methanes on SiO2 solid support under microwave irradiation
Authors: Zhang Da-Wei , Zhang Yu-Min , Zhang Yi-Liang , Zhao Tian-Qi , Liu Hong-Wei , Gan Yuan-Ming , Gu Qiang
Published: April 2015

An efficient synthesis of bis(indolyl)methanes was developed. Bis(indolyl)methanes were synthesized starting from various aromatic aldehydes with indole under microwave irradiation and solvent-free conditions (85-98 %). Solid support SiO
Facile and direct synthesis of symmetrical acid anhydrides using a newly prepared powerful and efficient mixed reagent
Authors: Rouhi-Saadabad Hamed , Akhlaghinia Batool
Published: April 2015

An efficient mixed reagent for direct synthesis of symmetrical carboxylic anhydrides from carboxylic acids has been prepared. Carboxylic acids are converted to anhydrides using triphenylphosphine/ trichloroisocyanuric acid under mild reaction conditions at room temperature. Short reaction time, excellent yields of products, low cost, availability of reagents, simple experimental procedure, and easy work-up of the products are the main advantages of the presented method.
Determination of cigarette papers moisture content by gas chromatography
Authors: Lin Jian-Nan , Hong Li-Li , Chen Lan , You Jin-Qing
Published: April 2015

A method for the determination of the moisture content in cigarette papers using solvent extraction followed by gas chromatographic analysis was developed. Optimal extraction conditions, including the agitation method, solvent and extraction time, as well as optimal gas chromatographic parameters, such as the internal standard, were investigated. The maximum degree of moisture extraction was achieved when samples were soaked in 20 mL of ethanol containing 0.5 mL L
Treatment of natural rubber latex serum waste by co-digestion with macroalgae, Chaetomorpha sp. and Ulva intestinalis, for sustainable production of biogas
Authors: Pake Aneeta , Cheewasedtham Chonlatee , Cheewasedtham Wilairat
Published: April 2015

Biogas production is proposed as an alternative approach to using natural rubber Hevea brasiliensis latex serum, a major waste product from the production of concentrated latex. To make the most efficient use of the reactor size, the addition of macroalgal biomass as a co-substrate to the fermentation system was investigated. The biogas yield of latex serum as a single substrate was (398 ± 14) L per kg of volatile solids added (VSA). For the co-digestion system, algae mixed with serum were investigated at wet mass ratios of Chaetomorpha sp. to Ulva intestinalis to serum at 3 : 0 : 1, 2 : 0 : 2, 1 : 0 : 3, 0 : 1 : 3, 0 : 2 : 2 and 0 : 3 : 1. The co-digestion system with latex serum at 2 to 3 out of 4 parts produced the highest biogas yields within the range of 422-460 L kg
Eco-friendly conjugate hydrocyanation of α-cyanoacrylates using potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) as cyanating reagent
Authors: Zhang Yu-Peng , Hu Xiao-Chun , Li Zheng
Published: April 2015

The conjugate hydrocyanation of α-cyanoacrylates through chemoselective 1,4-addition to synthesise α,β-dicyanopropanoates by one-pot two-step procedure using potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) as an eco-friendly cyanide source, benzoyl chloride as a promoter and potassium carbonate as a catalyst is described. The advantages of this protocol are use of a non-toxic, non-volatile and inexpensive cyanating reagent, high product yields and simple working procedure
Phospho sulfonic acid as efficient heterogeneous Brønsted acidic catalyst for one-pot synthesis of 14H-dibenzo[a,j ]xanthenes and 1,8-dioxo-octahydro-xanthenes
Authors: Rezayati Sobhan , Erfani Zahra , Hajinasiri Rahimeh
Published: April 2015

A simple, efficient procedure for the preparation of phospho sulfonic acid PO(OSO
Morphological orders of spherulitic crystal textures in Belousov–Zhabotinsky-type oscillatory reaction system
Authors: Yadav Narendra , Majhi Syam Sundar , Saw Sudhir Kumar , Srivastava Prem Kumar
Published: April 2015

The morphological orders of spherulitic crystal patterns in a Belousov-Zhabotinsky-type oscillatory reaction system were studied. The experiments showed that the morphology of crystal patterns were highly dependent on the reaction temperature. The reaction was initially carried out at 30°C, leading to the growth of multi-centred spherulitic patterns. The single-centred spherulitic patterns with fairly large crystal fibrils were obtained at 35°C. A number of undersized crystal assemblies with fractal geometry were also investigated at 25°C. The gross morphology of the crystal patterns was examined using optical microscopy and a scanning electron microscope which revealed the fibrous organisations. A particle-mediated self-assembly scheme was proposed for the growth of the spherulitic patterns. The insight into the nucleation mechanism, growth behaviour, and morphological orders of the growing patterns is discussed in detail. The crystal phases, ordering of textures, and composition of the crystals were characterised by thermal and X-ray diffraction techniques
Microfiltration of post-fermentation broth with backflushing membrane cleaning
Authors: Gryta Marek , Tomczak Wirginia
Published: April 2015

Separation of microorganism cells from broth is a very important stage in the recovery of fermentation products. The microfiltration of fermented glycerol solutions was studied. During this process, the filter cake building up on the membrane surface caused an increase of filtration resistances, resulting in the decrease of the permeate flux. In this work, short time reverse flow of permeate was used to remove the fouling layer after each cycle of the filtration. The applied periodical membrane cleaning led to minimization of the observed fouling effects