bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Report on the 41st International Symposium Actual Tasks on Agricultural Engineering, 19-22 February 2013, Opatija, Croatia
Authors: Kosutic Silvio , De Wrachien Daniele
Published: May 2016

The 41st International Symposium Actual Tasks on Agricultural Engineering was held on 19th-22nd February 2013 in Grand Hotel Adriatic Opatija, Republic of Croatia. The principal Organiser, Agricultural Engineering Department, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb was supported by the following frameworks: Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University J.J. Strossmayer, Osijek; Department of Bio-systems Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Maribor (Slovenia); Agricultural Institute of Slovenia; Hungarian Institute of Agricultural Engineering Gödöllö; and Croatian Agricultural Engineering Society. In addition, CIGR, EurAgEng, AAAE bestowed their support and endorsement to the Event.
High chlorophyll a concentration in a low nutrient context: discussions in a subtropical lake dominated by Cyanobacteria
Authors: Hennemann Mariana C. , Petrucio Mauricio M.
Published: May 2016

Temporal variability in some water quality parameters can play an important role in determining the presence and abundance of primary producers, and consequently in the trophic state and other characteristics and uses of lake ecosystems. In this sense, the present study aimed at understanding temporal dynamics of some trophic relevant water quality parameters in different time scales and their correlation and influence in phytoplankton biomass (chlorophyll a) in a shallow subtropical coastal lake. Peri Lake is located in Florianópolis island in Southern Brazil and samples were taken monthly between March 2007 and February 2013. The lake showed low dissolved nutrients concentration, especially phosphorus (P) (median dissolved P: 2.0 µg.l-1)  and high chlorophyll a (median: 20.8 µg.l-1) concentration. Total nitrogen (TN) concentration varied broadly, with a median of 672.8 µg L-1, and total P (TP) concentration was low (median: 13.5 µg L-1). A seasonal pattern of variation concerning dissolved and total P and chlorophyll a concentration was observed, associated mainly with temperature and wind speeds, but no clear pattern was observed for nitrogen (N) fractions. Significant differences were observed in different years for some parameters, with higher chlorophyll a and lower N concentration in the last three years sampled. The lake was considered potentially P limited during the majority of the study period and a positive correlation was found between chlorophyll a and total and dissolved P concentration. Phytoplankton biomass (as chlorophyll a) was apparently controlled by water temperature and P availability (TN:TP ratio and dissolved P). Water transparency (as Secchi depth) was strongly and negatively influenced by chlorophyll a concentration. Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii abilities to compete for P and light seem to be important factors determining its success and dominance in this low P coastal ecosystem. The fluctuating P supply, probably associated to sediment resuspension by wind in this shallow waterbody, is an advantageous factor for cyanobacteria and has an important role in chlorophyll a dynamics. Thus, high chlorophyll a concentration in this subtropical lake seems to be related to the P-limited condition, shallowness and low water column transparency, which are probably favouring the dominance of C. raciborskii, especially in higher summer temperatures, and leading to high chlorophyll a concentration even in a low dissolved nutrient environment.
Differences in cell wall of thin and thick filaments of cyanobacterium Aphanizomenon gracile SAG 31.79 and their implications for different resistance to Daphnia grazing
Authors: Wejnerowski Lukasz , Cerbin Slawek , Wojciechowicz Maria K. , Dziuba Marcin K.
Published: May 2016

Recent studies have shown that the filamentous cyanobacterium Aphanizomenon gracile Lemmermann, strain SAG 31.79, consists of two types of filaments that differ in thickness. These two types are known to vary in resistance to Daphnia magna grazing: thin filaments (<2.5 µm) are more vulnerable to grazing than the thick ones (>2.5 µm). In this study, we investigated whether the difference in the vulnerability to grazing of thin and thick filaments is a result of different thickness of their cell walls, a filament stiffness determinant. We expected thick filaments to have thicker cell walls than the thin ones. Additionally, we analysed whether cell wall thickness correlates with filament thickness regardless of the filament type. A morphometric analysis of cell walls was performed using transmission electron micrographs of ultra-thin sections of the batch-cultured cyanobacterial material.  Our study revealed that the thin type of filaments had thinner cell walls than the thick filaments. Moreover, cell wall thickness was positively correlated with filament thickness. TEM (transmission electron microscopy) observations also revealed that the thin type of filaments was often at different stages of autocatalytic cell destruction, which was mainly manifested in the increase in cell vacuolization and degradation of the cytoplasm content. Based on our findings, we assume that previously reported higher resistance of thick filaments to Daphnia grazing results from greater stiffness and excellent physiological conditions of thick filaments. 
Robust hybridization-based genotyping probes for HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18 obtained via in vitro selection
Authors: Brukner Ivan B. , Larose Anne-Marie , Gorska-Flipot Izabella , Krajinovic Maja , Labuda Damian
Published: May 2016

This paper describes the technical and analytical performance of a novel set of hybridization probes for the four GARDASIL® vaccine-relevant HPV types (6, 11, 16 and 18). These probes are obtained through in vitro selection from a pool of random oligonucleotides, rather than the traditional “rational design” approach typically used as the initial step in assay development. The type-specific segment of the HPV genome was amplified using a GP5+/6+ PCR protocol and 39 synthetic oligonucleotide templates derived from each of the HPV types, as PCR targets. The robust performance of the 4 selected hybridization probes was demonstrated by monitoring the preservation of the specificity and sensitivity of the typing assay over all 39 HPV types, using a different spectrum of HPV (genome equivalent: 103-109) and human DNA concentrations (10-100 ng) as well as temperature and buffer composition variations. To the Authors’ knowledge, this is a unique hybridization-based multiplex typing assay. It performs at ambient temperatures, does not require the strict temperature control of hybridization conditions, and is functional with a number of different non-denaturing buffers, thereby offering downstream compatibility with a variety of detection methods. Studies aimed at demonstrating clinical performance are needed to validate the applicability of this strategy.
MicroRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of human cancer
Authors: Asslaber Daniela , Piñón Hofbauer Josefina , Greil Richard , Egle Alexander
Published: May 2016

miRNAs are small-noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression on a posttranscriptional level. A number of oncogenes and tumor suppressors were found to be targets of miRNAs and global miRNA expression signatures were able to distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous tissues. Therefore it was not surprising that some miRNAs could be linked to the pathogenesis of cancer. In this review we provide an overview of the use of microRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic tools in cancer and focus on the use of miRNA expression as biomarker for disease activity.
Therapeutic implications of microRNAs in human cancer
Authors: Rossbach Michael
Published: May 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of highly evolutionarily conserved non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that modulate gene expression. Several studies have shown that the expression of miRNAs is deregulated in human malignancies. For ncRNAs and miRNAs, such gene-profiling studies in tumorigenic tissues have identified significant signatures that are of both diagnostic and prognostic value. Addressing the functions of ncRNAs not only give insights into the molecular mechanisms that underlie complex genetic processes, but may also elucidate novel mechanisms that contribute to early stages of tumor development, progression and metastasis. MiRNA-based novel approaches target the ncRNAome, including, for instance, miRNA expression levels and improved designs of miRNA-mimics or more precise target-predictions, prevent off-target effects of novel drugs and make miRNAs become a highly efficient class of therapeutics. For miRNA-based therapeutic studies two direct strategies are currently under investigation, viz. (i) the overexpression of given miRNAs to inhibit the expression of protein-coding genes or (ii) the inhibition of target miRNAs with antisense constructs like antagomiRs. Indirect strategies include the use of novel drugs that modulate miRNA expression levels by directly targeting their processing or transcription. Further, miRNA-based biomarkers have a significant impact on the development of both therapeutic and diagnostic agents, a concept known as theranostics and are highly relevant for drug development and personalized medicine.
Unusual 5'-regulatory structure and regulation of the murine Mlc1 gene: Lack of promoter-specific functional elements
Authors: Henseler Darja , Turner Jonathan D. , Eckhardt Matthias , Van der Mark Maaike , Revsin Yanina , Lin Michelle K. , Kranz Thorsten , Muller Claude , Meyer Jobst
Published: May 2016

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The MLC1 gene is involved in an autosomal recessive neurological disorder, megalencephalic leucoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts (MLC), which is characterized by macrocephaly during the first year of life and swollen white matter (leucoencephaly). Variants of MLC1 have also been associated with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, major depression and bipolar disorder. Currently, little is known about the encoded protein (MLC1). Judging from its similarity to other known proteins, it may serve as a trans-membrane transporter. However, the function of the encoded protein and its gene regulation has not been investigated successfully so far. We investigated the 5’ region of the murine Mlc1 with respect to regulatory elements for gene expression. A promoter search and an in silico analysis were conducted. Luciferase reporter gene constructs with potential promoter regions were created to study promoter activity in vitro. We found two alternative first exons for the murine Mlc1 but were not able to detect any promoter activity for the investigated reporter gene constructs in different cell lines, thus pointing to the presence of essential cis-acting elements far outside of the region. In silico analysis indicated an uncommon promoter structure for Mlc1, with CCAAT-boxes representing the only noticeable elements.
Silencing of hpv16 e6 and e7 oncogenic activities by small interference rna induces autophagy and apoptosis in human cervical cancer cells
Authors: Salazar-León Jonathan , Reyes-Román Fabiola , Meneses-Acosta Angélica , Merchant Horacio , Lagunas-Martínez Alfredo , Meda-Monzón Elizabeth , Pita-López María Luisa , Gómez-Cerón Claudia , Bermúdez-Morales Victor Hugo , Madrid-Marina Vicente , Peralta-Zaragoza Oscar
Published: May 2016

Cervical cancer is the second most common form of death by cancer in women worldwide and has special attention for the development of new treatment strategies. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) persistent infection is the main etiological agent of this neoplasia, and the main cellular transformation mechanism is by disruption of p53 and pRb function by interaction with HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins. This generates alterations in cellular differentiation and cellular death inhibition. Thus, HPV E6 and E7 oncogenes represent suitable targets for the development of gene therapy strategies against cervical cancer. An attractive technology platform is developing for post-transcriptional selective silencing of gene expression, using small interference RNA. Therefore, in the present study, we used SiHa cells (HPV16+) transiently transfected with specific siRNA expression plasmids for HPV16 E6 and E7 oncogenes. In this model we detected repression of E6 and E7 oncogene and oncoprotein expression, an increase in p53 and hypophosphorylated pRb isoform protein expression, and autophagy and apoptosis morphology features. These findings suggest that selective silencing of HPV16 E6 and E7 oncogenes by siRNAs, has significant biological effects on the survival of human cancer cells and is a potential gene therapy strategy against cervical cancer.
CNAPS VII - CIRCULATING NUCLEIC ACIDS IN PLASMA AND SERUM
Authors: Damián García-Olmo, Spain Guest Editor:
Published: May 2016

On behalf of The 7th International Conference on Circulating Nucleic Acids in Plasma and Serum (CNAPS VII) Organizing Committee, it is my great pleasure to extend a warm invitation to you to participate in the CNAPS VII, scheduled to be held the first time in Madrid, Spain, 24th and 25th October 2011, at the La Paz University Hospital. After the great success of the CNAPS VI at Hong Kong, we are honored with the opportunity to host the CNAPS VII in our city of  Madrid. To keep up with our bourgeoning field of science, an outstanding array of international experts on this field have agreed to share their latest results and experiences with us during this meeting, with elating debates, lectures and networking sessions. As in previous conferences, poster and oral presentation sessions will provide all participants with the opportunity to discuss their results with other experts in the field. Aside from the opportunities afforded by the conference´s working sessions, you will also have the chance to experience a myriad of Spanish tourist and cultural attractions. From classic visits to our famous museums, historical buildings and monuments, to a great variety of cultural activities and tours; from our delicious gastronomy to fabulous shopping bargains, there is plenty that will leave you with fond memories of Madrid and its warm and welcoming people.
The effect of 5S-Continuous Quality Improvement-Total Quality Management approach on staff motivation, patients’ waiting time and patient satisfaction with services at hospitals in Uganda
Authors: Take Naoki , Byakika Sarah , Tasei Hiroshi , Yoshikawa Toru
Published: May 2016

This study aimed at analyzing the effect of 5S practice on staff motivation, patients’ waiting time and patient satisfaction with health services at hospitals in Uganda. Double-difference estimates were measured for 13 Regional Referral Hospitals and eight General Hospitals implementing 5S practice separately. The study for Regional Referral Hospitals revealed 5S practice had the effect on staff motivation in terms of commitment to work in the current hospital and waiting time in the dispensary in 10 hospitals implementing 5S, but significant difference was not identified on patient satisfaction. The study for General Hospitals indicated the effect of 5S practice on patient satisfaction as well as waiting time, but staff motivation in two hospitals did not improve. 5S practice enables the hospitals to improve the quality of services in terms of staff motivation, waiting time and patient satisfaction and it takes as least four years in Uganda. The fourth year since the commencement of 5S can be a threshold to move forward to the next step, Continuous Quality Improvement.
Perceptions of factors associated with condom use to prevent HIV/AIDS among persons with physical disability in an urban town of Cameroon: a qualitative study
Authors: Tarkang Elvis E. , Adam Awolu , Kweku Maragret
Published: May 2016

Persons with disabilities have been identified as one of the groups vulnerable to HIV, due to several challenges posed by their disabilities. They also suffer external stigma from their able bodied peers. However, they have largely been ignored as part of HIV prevention programs, largely due to the perceptions that they are not at risk, and information is not being accessible. About 5.4% of the Cameroon population lives with a disability. In Cameroon, no official statistics exist on perception of factors associated with condom use to prevent HIV among persons with disabilities, which creates a challenge for understanding the extent of the pandemic in this population. The objective of this study was therefore to investigate perceptions of factors associated with condom use among persons with physical disability in an urban town of Cameroon. The qualitative study from which this paper is based, used semi-structured in-depth interviews, conducted with a purposive sample of ten (5 male and 5 female) persons with physical disability, aged 18 years and above, in April 2015. The findings of this study as interpreted according to the components of the Health Belief Model, indicated that perceived susceptibility to HIV, perceived severity of HIV, perceived benefit of condom use, perceived barriers to condom use and perceived self-efficacy for condom use were the factors perceived by persons with physical disability, to be associated with condom use. It is therefore recommended that there should be educational programs in HIV/AIDS targeted specifically at persons with physical disability. These programs should pertinently promote the understanding and perceptions of persons with physical disability of the real threat of HIV/AIDS, and also equip them with condom negotiation skills and strategies to overcome barriers to condom use.
Management of unscheduled tetanus prophylaxis in Emergency Departments: Point-of-Care implementation as a rapid tool for the evaluation of anti-tetanus antibodies
Authors: Rocchetti Andrea , Uberti Rossana , Prevaldi Carolina , Lazzara Clara Maria , Riccio Federica
Published: May 2016

Background and aim: Each analytical activity, including those carried out in Point of Care (POCT) must be, at law, under the control of Laboratory Medicine. Before the implementation of the rapid tetanus quick stick (TQS) test for the evaluation of the specific tetanus immunisation, a multi-disciplinary and multi-professional group was created. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of Emergency Department (ED) staff to manage and correctly understand the result of TQS test in POCT.
Materials and Methods: This analysis took into consideration 152 patients admitted to ED with traumatic wounds; information on the state of tetanus immunisation at their arrival wasn’t recorded. Blood sample analysis was performed twice. The Laboratory confirmed a 100% concordance between their results and ELISA test (standard criterion). Study design consisted of 2 phases: the first one (50 test) to preliminarily evaluate if any corrective action or improvement of procedures is required, and the second one (102 tests) to confirm the quality of corrective actions.
Results: The concordance of results between TQS test in Laboratory and POCT test in ED was 80% in the first phase and 95% in the second one.
Conclusions: The use of the rapid TQS test is a valuable tool; however, to avoid serious mistakes of interpretation, periodic checks on the quality of the results must be arranged.
Effect of passive immunization by anti-gingipain IgY on periodontal health of dogs
Authors: Shofiqur Rahman A.K.M. , Ibrahim El-Sayed M. , Isoda Rie , Umeda Kouji , Nguyen Van Sa , Kodama Yoshikatsu
Published: May 2016

Anti-gingipain IgY (IgY-GP), known as hyperimmune γ-livetin from egg yolk, inhibits the enzyme activity, growth and adherence of Porphyromonas gingivalis to gingival epithelial cells. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of IgY-GP on periodontal health of dogs. IgY-GP was prepared from the egg yolk of hens immunized with the gingipain from Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277. Two in vivo trial models were conducted on 15 adult dogs with periodontitis by giving IgY-GP-supplemented dog feed for 8 weeks and direct application of the IgY in dental ointment to the periodontal pockets at weekly interval for 4 weeks. Clinical parameters including gingivitis, periodontitis, oral health index, bleeding on probe (BOP), pocket depth (PD), and dental calculus removal pattern for selected premolar teeth were recorded at baseline, 4 and 8 weeks post treatment.IgY-GP showed strong cross-reactivity with gingipain from Porphyromonas gulae and inhibited the enzyme activity in vitro. In the dog trials, IgY-GP resulted in significant improvement of oral health parameters including gingivitis and periodontitis scores, BOP, dental calculus removal. No adverse events during and after antibody applications were noted. Oral immunotherapy by using IgY-GP is a new promising alternative to conventional preventive and therapeutic methods to improve oral health status in dogs.
Prevalence of pathological conditions causing skin damage and consequently reducing its market value in domestic ruminants of Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Chaudhry Zafar I. , Saiddain Aga , Sabir Naveed , Malik Naeem A. , Azeem Sahan , Sajid Abdul
Published: May 2016

Data regarding the prevalence of skin diseases reducing the market value of skins and hides and ultimately refined leather were not available in Pakistan. The current study was conducted in the hide/skin markets and abattoirs of Lahore and Faisalabad and tanneries of Sheikhupura, Kasur and Sialkot. The record of various skin diseases and conditions damaging the skin/hide of cattle, goat and sheep was made. Lesions, extent and type of damage were recorded. A total of 21,671 skins / hides were examined out of which 3918 of skins and 600 hides were examined at the abattoirs of Lahore and Faisalabad, 6784 Skins and 1399 hides at hide markets and 8091 skins and 879 hides at tanneries. Out of total 21,671 skins / hides, 66.12% were normal and 33.88% were having some sort of damage. The data were gathered on questionnaire sheets. The prevalence of skin diseases was assessed through Strata V.9 software program. The correlation of the disease and area was analyzed by the chi-square. The prevalence of various diseases and damages due to mal-management in sheep, goats and cattle has been discussed in detail. The damages in goat skins were significantly less as compared with cattle and sheep. However, the type of defects and severity varied amongst various ruminants studied. The most common damages observed, overall in all species studied were atrophy of skin (Thin skin) 6.38%, followed in descending order observed was lesions of wounds 4.94%, old lesions of pox 4.82%, flaying cuts 3.17%, tick infestation 3.08%, lesions caused by mites infestation 2.45%, scratches 2.33%, lesions caused by warble fly larvae 1.47%, decomposition 1.32%, charr (fibrosis) 1.28%, ringworm infection 1.10%, extensive soiling by dung 0.84%, chronic abscesses 0.46%, and Lice infestation 0.17%.
Application of decision-tree technique to assess herd specific risk factors for coliform mastitis in sows
Authors: Gerjets Imke , Traulsen Imke , Reiners Kerstin , Kemper Nicole
Published: May 2016

The aim of the study was to investigate factors associated with coliform mastitis in sows, determined at herd level, by applying the decision-tree technique. Coliform mastitis represents an economically important disease in sows after farrowing that also affects the health, welfare and performance of the piglets. The decision-tree technique, a data mining method, may be an effective tool for making large datasets accessible and different sow herd information comparable. It is based on the C4.5-algorithm which generates trees in a top-down recursive strategy. The technique can be used to detect weak points in farm management. Two datasets of two farms in Germany, consisting of sow-related parameters, were analysed and compared by decision-tree algorithms. Data were collected over the period of April 2007 to August 2010 from 987 sows (499 CM-positive sows and 488 CM-negative sows) and 596 sows (322 CM-positive sows and 274 CM-negative sows), respectively. Depending on the dataset, different graphical trees were built showing relevant factors at the herd level which may lead to coliform mastitis. To our understanding, this is the first time decision-tree modeling was used to assess risk factors for coliform mastitis. Herd specific risk factors for the disease were illustrated what could prove beneficial in disease and herd management.
Parasitism data of Glossina palpalis and G. tachinoides (Diptera: Glossinidae) by trypanosome species in parts of Abia State, Nigeria
Authors: Ohaeri Carmelita C. , Eluwa Mark C.
Published: May 2016

Glossina species are important medical and agricultural vectors transmitting the African animal trypanosomes and also the agent of sleeping sickness in human. Parasitism data of Glossina species by trypanosomes were carried out over a period of one year, from April 2003 to March 2004 using bioconical traps to catch tsetse at some selected Local Government Areas of Abia State, Nigeria. Four hundred and twenty seven (427) flies were dissected and examined microscopically for the presence of trypanosome infection. The survey found Glossina palpalis as the predominant tsetse species in the area. Out of the 427 flies dissected, 17 (3.9%) were infected with trypanosome. The highest infection was recorded among G. palpalis (3.7%) and this was significantly higher (P<0.001) when compared with those of G. tachinoides (0.2%). Female flies had higher infection than males (2.3% as against 1.6%, respectively). Majority of the infected flies were caught during rainy season (2.8%) and few were caught in dry season (1.1%). Twelve (2.8%) of all the parasites were located in the proboscis indicating Trypanosoma vivax infection, while 5 (1.1%) were from mid-gut of the flies indicating T. congolense infection. No parasite was observed in all the Glossina species caught at Ikwuano and Umuahia South areas, while trypanosome parasitism was highest in Glossina species caught at Isuikwuato, 2.5% of the flies in this area were parasitized. The low parasitic infection rate observed here indicates a marginal effect on the vector population of trypanosomes in Abia State, Nigeria.
Management of obstructive urolithiasis in dairy calves with intact bladder and urethra by Fazili’s minimally invasive tube cystotomy technique
Authors: Fazili Mujeeb Ur Rehman , Bhattacharyya Hiranya Kumar , Buchoo Bashir Ahmad , Malik Hamid Ullah , Dar Shahid Hussain
Published: May 2016

The present study was planned to evaluate minimally invasive tube cystotomy technique in calves suffering from obstructive urolithiasis having intact urinary bladder and urethra. Fifteen male non-castrated calves with age ranging from 1-10 months (mean 4.05 months), presented for treatment within one to three days (mean 2.2 days) of complete urinary tract obstruction due to urethral calculi with intact bladder and urethra, were included in this study. Under light sedation and local infiltration anaesthesia, all the animals were subjected through left paralumbar fossa, to a minimally invasive surgical tube cystotomy in which catheter was placed in the bladder lumen through a metallic cannula and fixed to the skin with a stay suture (Fazili’s technique). All the animals were discharged the same day. Time taken for the procedure varied from 8 to 17 minutes (mean 11.0 minutes). Normal urination resumed in twelve (80.0%) calves. Mean time taken for normal urination was 10.50 days. In two of the remaining calves, urine flow stopped through the catheter prematurely and they were then subjected to standard surgical tube cystotomy. One more calf did not urinate normally for 30 postoperative days and was lost to the follow up thereafter. Recurrence of the obstruction was not detected in ten and nine animals observed up to six and 12 months respectively. In conclusion, the outcome of this minimally invasive technique is similar to the standard tube cystectomy. Additionally, the procedure is cost effective, quick, simple and field applicable. It also minimizes exposure of abdominal cavity of metabolically compromised animals. However, the technique needs to be tried in larger number of such calves wherein better quality catheter of larger diameter be used before recommending its extensive use.
Development and validation of an in vivo model for pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies of antimicrobials in domestic animals
Authors: Meneses Maria Laura , Albarellos Gabriela , Landoni Maria Fabiana
Published: May 2016

The increase in bacterial resistance to antimicrobials has motivated researchers to develop experimental animal models to integrate pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/ PD) profiles to predict the effectiveness of antimicrobials treatments. The models used to date have a weakness based on the use of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), whose value is obtained only in vitro, determined under constant conditions with an exponential error, regarding to the double dilution used. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a device for subcutaneous implantation, which can be applied in any animal species, allowing simultaneous description of in vivo bacterial killing curve and pharmacokinetic profile of the drug under study. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the use of this model will allow researchers to apply PK/ PD decreasing the error originated in the use of MIC as a measure of antimicrobial pharmacodynamics.
Evaluation of apoptotic cell death in normal and chondrodystrophic canine intervertebral discs
Authors: Klauser Marie , Forterre Franck , Doherr Marcus , Zurbriggen Andreas , Spreng David , Forterre Simone
Published: May 2016

Disc degeneration occurs commonly in dogs. A variety of factors is thought to contribute an inappropriate disc matrix that isolate cells in the disc and lead to apoptosis. Disc herniation with radiculopathy and discogenic pain are the results of the degenerative process. The objective of this prospective study was to determine the extent of apoptosis in intact and herniated intervertebral discs of chondrodystrophic dogs and non-chondrodystrophic dogs. In addition, the nucleus pulposus (NP) was histologically compared between non-chondrodystrophic and chondrodystrophic dogs. Thoracolumbar intervertebral discs and parts of the extruded nucleus pulposus were harvested from 45 dogs. Samples were subsequently stained with haematoxylin-eosin and processed to detect cleaved caspase-3 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. A significant greater degree of apoptosis was observed in herniated NPs of chondrodystrophic dogs compared to non- chondrodystrophic dogs with poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase and cleaved caspase- 3 detection. Within the group of chondrodystrophic dogs, dogs with an intact disc and younger than 6 years showed a significant lower incidence of apoptosis in the NP compared to the herniated NP of chondrodystrophic dogs. The extent of apoptosis in the annulus fibrosus was not different between the intact disc from chondrodystrophic and non- chondrodystrophic dogs. An age-related increase of apoptotic cells in NP and annulus fibrosus was found in the intact non-herniated intervertebral discs. Histologically, absence of notochordal cells and occurrence of chondroid metaplasia were observed in the nucleus pulposus of chondrodystrophic dogs. As a result, we found that apoptosis plays a role in disc degeneration in chondrodystrophic dogs.
Lectin binding in normal donkey eyeball
Authors: Aly Khaled
Published: May 2016

In the present study, the distribution of various sugar residues in the eyeball tissues of sexually mature donkey was examined by employing fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated lectins. Our results revealed the presence of mannose (labeled by lectins ConA), galactose (labeled by PNA, GSAI, ECA), GalNAc (labeled by SBA, VVA), and GlcNAc (labeled by WGA) residues in the donkey ocular tissues. The epithelium and stroma of the ocular tissues were labeled with mannose (ConA) and GlcNAc (WGA) binding lectins. Binding sites for WGA and PNA to the rod and cone cells of the retina were evident. The lectins Con A, WGA and GSAI are bound strongly to the endothelium of blood vessels and to smooth muscle cells of the iris. In conclusion, the findings of the present study clearly indicate that the donkey eyeball contains a wide range of glycoconjugates (bearing mannosyl, galactosyl and glucosly residues), and it lacks fucosyl residues.
Pathological and electron microscopic studies on cold water disease among cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss Walbaum)
Authors: Aly Salah Mesalhy , Nouh Wael G. , Atti Nashwa Abdel , El-Ashram Ahmed M.
Published: May 2016

The present study aims to investigate the etiology and pathogenesis of cold water disease among cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss Walbaum) reared at low water temperature on a private farm, and propose preventive and control measures to prevent the recurrence of the disease and its spread to the neighboring farms or to other countries. The disease is caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum and is characterized clinically by high mortality rates (25%) with necrotizing skin and fin lesions. Septicemia with muscular and gill involvement is observed in severely affected cases. The histopathological and ultrastructure alterations in the infected trout explain the pathogencity of this microorganism in many organs other than skin and fins either directly by these bacteria or by its extracellular products, or indirectly via the hypoxia and ion imbalance that results from skin and gill damage. Although some antibiotics, such as trimethoprime, chloramin T and oxytetracycline, are effective on the causative agent, improvement in water quality, vaccination, increasing fish resistance and strict hygiene as well as quarantine measures would all help.
Veterinary education on fostering food safety and governance achieving a healthy nation in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman M. Mufizur , Kabir S. M. Lutful
Published: May 2016

Since veterinary medicine plays an important role in assuring a nation's food safety, therefore the present status of our food safety, where large numbers of consumers in Bangladesh have become victims of consuming adulterated foods, needs to be enhanced and governed by the guideline of veterinary and public health educators. This article highlights the need of an integrated collaborative approach between academicians and government officials for the creation and dissemination of food-safety teaching driving force to mitigate food borne diseases, ensure food safety, control mischievous and fraudulent adulteration – all destined to a harmonious national health strategic action plan. Veterinary education is very effective for cor- rect implementation of the stable to table concept and best serves the public when it is updated on current market needs of food products and measures protecting animal health. Universities in Europe and USA have adjusted their veterinary medicine curricula during the past few years. Experts predicted determinant changes by 2020 that would influence the work of the veterinarians. All of them are in favor of placing food quality and food safety and public health as the highest priorities in future veterinary education. In Bangladesh, Universities and Veterinary Colleges are producing qualified Veterinary Food Hygienists to deal with matters of health and demands for consumers’ food protection. The veterinary education blends veterinarians with strong capacity to advocate the assurance of food quality and safety from farm to fork. Government in collaboration with veterinary food hygienist should advocate academic and field covered sciencebased food safety system. It is hoped that in the near future Bangladesh will come forward with veterinary public health responsibilities incorporated in national food safety program. The concerned authorities in collaboration with international public health authority like WHO should establish a center for food safety, food quality control, and zoonoses.
The profile and frequency of known risk factors or comorbidities for deep vein thrombosis in an urban district hospital in KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Awolesi Damilola , Naidoo Mergan , Cassimijee Mohammed H.
Published: May 2016

Background: Although deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a preventable disease, it increases the morbidity and mortality in hospitalised, patients, resulting in considerable economic health impact. The identification and primary prevention of risk factors using risk assessment and stratification with subsequent anti-thrombotic prophylaxis in moderate- to severe-risk categories is the most rational means of reducing morbidity and mortality.Aim and setting: The aim of the study was to describe the profile and frequency of known risk factors or comorbidities of hospitalised medical patients with ultrasound-diagnosed DVT in an urban district hospital in KwaZulu-Natal.Methods: A retrospective review of clinical notes of all medical patients (age ≥ 13 years) admitted to the hospital with ultrasound-diagnosed DVT between July and December 2013.Results: The median age was 40 years (interquartile range 32–60 years) and female preponderance was 72.84%. HIV and tuberculosis emerged as the prevalent risk factors, accounting for 51.85% and 35.80%, respectively. Other risk factors observed were recent hospitalisation (34.57%), smoking (25.93%), previous DVT (19.75%) and congestive cardiac failure (18.52%).Conclusion: DVT in our study occurred predominantly in young female patients unlike previous studies where patients were generally older. Furthermore, HIV and tuberculosis were the two most common known risk factors or comorbidities observed. Clinicians should have a heightened awareness of venous thromboembolism in patients with either condition or where both conditions occur together and appropriate thromboprophylaxis should be administered.Keywords: Deep Vein Thrombosis; risk factors; profile
Targeted Radionuclide Therapy: Practical Applications and Future Prospects
Authors: Zukotynski Katherine , Jadvar Hossein , Capala Jacek , Fahey Frederic
Published: May 2016

In recent years, there has been a proliferation in the development of targeted radionuclide cancer therapy. It is now possible to use baseline clinical and imaging assessments to determine the most effective therapy and to tailor this therapy during the course of treatment based on radiation dosimetry and tumor response. Although this personalized approach to medicine has the advantage of maximizing therapeutic effect while limiting toxicity, it can be challenging to implement and expensive. Further, in order to use targeted radionuclide therapy effectively, there is a need for multidisciplinary awareness, education, and collaboration across the scientific, industrial, and medical communities. Even more important, there is a growing understanding that combining radiopharmaceuticals with conventional treatment such as chemotherapy and external beam radiotherapy may limit patient morbidity while improving survival. Developments in radiopharmaceuticals as biomarkers capable of predicting therapeutic response and targeting disease are playing a central role in medical research. Adoption of a practical approach to manufacturing and delivering radiopharmaceuticals, assessing patient eligibility, optimizing post-therapy follow-up, and addressing reimbursement issues will be essential for their success.
Variable viscosity effects on mixed convection heat and mass transfer along a semi-infinite vertical plate in the presence of chemical reaction and viscous dissipation
Authors: Kishan Naikoti , Amrutha P.
Published: May 2016

An analysis is carried out to study the viscous dissipation and variable viscosity effects on the flow, heat and mass transfer characteristics in a viscous fluid over a semi-infinite vertical porous plate in the presence of chemical reaction. The governing boundary layer equations are written into a dimensionless form by similarity transformations. The transformed coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations are solved numerically by using the implicit finite difference method. The effects of different parameters on the dimensionless velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles are shown graphically. In addition, tabulated results for the local skin-friction coefficient, the local Nusselt number, and the local Sherwood number are presented and discussed.Keywords: Variable viscosity, Chemical Reaction, Viscous Dissipation, Finite difference method, Suction.
A simple output voltage control scheme for single phase wavelet modulated inverters
Authors: Dwivedi U.D.
Published: May 2016

Wavelet based techniques have been extensively used in various power engineering applications. Recently, wavelet has also been proposed to generate switching signal for single-phase pulse-width-modulated (PWM) dc-ac inverter. The main advantage of the wavelet modulated (WM) scheme is that a single synthesis function, derived using wavelet theory, can be used to generate the switching signal as well as to model the inverter output which is not possible with other modulation techniques. But, unlike other popular PWM schemes e.g. sinusoidal PWM, which offers independent control to both magnitude and frequency of fundamental inverter output voltage, the existing WM scheme can only control the frequency of the fundamental. This paper proposes an improved WM scheme for single-phase H-bridge voltage source inverter. The main emphasis of the research work carried out in this paper is to find a feasible solution to the magnitude control problem for existing WM scheme.Keywords: PWM inverter; single-phase four pulse voltage source inverter; wavelet inverter; wavelet modulation (WM)
Determination of short circuit stresses in an air core reactor using finite element analysis
Authors: Chitaliya G.H. , Joshi S.K.
Published: May 2016

This paper shows the use and effectiveness of finite element method while designing an air core reactor for determining the short circuit forces and stress level due to short circuit. A 500 Amp air core series reactor having nominal voltage rating of 600 Volt was to be designed and to be subjected to a short circuit current of 8 KA for 2 second. A finite element approach was adopted in designing the stress level due to short circuit forces and the results were utilized in developing a reactor that finally withstood the short circuit test.Keywords: Reactor, Short circuit forces, von Mises stress, Finite Element Method, Inductor
RAMAN amplifier gain dynamics with ASE : Numerical analysis and simulation approach
Authors: Sharma Reena , Raghuwanshi Sanjeev Kumar
Published: May 2016

Spontaneous Raman scattering add up with the amplified signal and reflect as a noise because of random phases linked with all spontaneously generated photons. The amplified spontaneous emission noise in systems with distributed Raman gain for single pump amplification is diagnosed numerically and simulated using MATLAB to obtain experimental outcome. The signal gain of Raman Amplifier as a function of fiber length and pump power is elaborated. The noise accompanying an optically amplified signal plays an important role for understanding the basic properties of the gain medium. So in this work, we demonstrate an analytical formalism and a numerical horizon of the amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) noise power for distributed Raman amplifier (DRA).Keywords: Amplified spontaneous emission (ASE), optical noise, Raman amplification
Assessing commercially available personal health records for home health
Authors: Choi Yong , Demiris George , Kneale Laura
Published: May 2016

Home health nurses and clients experience unmet information needs when transitioning from hospital to home health. Personal health records (PHRs) support consumer-centered information management activities. Previous work has assessed PHRs associated with healthcare providers, but these systems leave home health nurses unable to access necessary information.

To evaluate the ability of publically available PHRs to accept, manage, and share information from a home health case study.

Two researchers accessed the publically available PHRs on myPHR.com, and attempted to enter, manage, and share the case study data. We qualitatively described the PHR features, and identified gaps between the case study information and PHR functionality.

Eighteen PHRs were identified in our initial search. Seven systems met our inclusion criteria, and are included in this review. The PHRs were able to accept basic medical information. Gaps occurred when entering, managing, and/or sharing data from the acute care and home health episodes. The PHRs that were reviewed were unable to effectively manage the case study information. Therefore, increasing consumer health literacy through these systems may be difficult. The PHRs that we reviewed were also unable to electronically share their data.

The gap between the existing functionality and the information needs from the case study may make these PHRs difficult to use for home health environments. Additional work is needed to increase the functionality of the PHR systems to better fit the data needs of home health clients.
Airborne observation of mixing across the entrainment zone during PARADE 2011
Authors: Berkes Florian , Hoor Peter , Bozem Heiko , Kunkel Daniel , Sprenger Michael , Henne Stephan
Published: May 2016

Abstract. This study presents the analysis of the structure and air mass characteristics of the lower atmosphere during the field campaign PARADE (PArticles and RAdicals: Diel observations of the impact of urban and biogenic Emissions) on Mount Kleiner Feldberg in southwestern Germany during late summer 2011. We analysed measurements of meteorological variables (temperature, moisture, pressure, wind speed and direction) from radio soundings and of chemical tracers (carbon dioxide, ozone) from aircraft measurements. We focus on the thermodynamic and dynamic properties that control the chemical distribution of atmospheric constituents in the boundary layer. We show that the evolution of tracer profiles of CO2 and O3 indicate mixing across the inversion layer (or entrainment zone). This finding is supported by the analysis of tracer–tracer correlations which are indicative for mixing and the relation of tracer profiles in relation to the evolution of the boundary layer height deduced from radio soundings. The study shows the relevance of entrainment processes for the lower troposphere in general and specifically that the tracer–tracer correlation method can be used to identify mixing and irreversible exchange processes across the inversion layer.