bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A qualitative descriptive study of self‐management issues in people with long‐term intermittent urinary catheters
Authors: Wilde Mary H. , Brasch Judith , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2011

wilde m.h., brasch j. & zhang y. (2011) A qualitative descriptive study of self‐management issues in people with long‐term intermittent urinary catheters. Journal of Advanced Nursing67(6), 1254–1263.

Aim.  The study was to identify and describe issues of intermittent urinary catheter users for future self‐management research and/or training programmes.

Background.  Limited studies were found of how people using clean intermittent catheterization manage their daily routines or troubleshoot problems. Self‐management research related to intermittent catheterization could lead to improved compliance with the method and better quality of life.

Method.  This qualitative descriptive study involved in‐depth tape‐recorded telephone interviews in 2008–2009 with 34 people in the United States of America using permanent intermittent catheterization, mostly individuals with spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis. Recruitment was through Internet sites where individuals could link to the study website and then contact the researchers. The sample included 13 men and 21 women aged 21–72 years (mean 42 years). Content analysis for qualitative data involved iterative comparisons of transcripts, summaries and memos. Coding, key quotes and tables were developed to determine themes.

Findings.  Six major themes were identified: Knowing the Body, Practising Intermittent Catheterization, Limited Options in Catheters and Equipment, Inaccessible Bathrooms, Hassles, and Adjustment in Making Intermittent Catheterization a Part of Life. While some persons had choices in catheters, many did not because of insurance constraints. Some individuals developed knowledge of how to balance the procedure with fluid intake and activities.

Conclusion.  The lack of acceptable bathrooms can interfere with being able to go to work, travel or be with friends and family. All using intermittent catheterization should have adequate insurance coverage when this is needed. Research into training programmes could incorporate knowledge of experienced users.
Changes in quality of life during biofeedback for people with puborectalis dyssynergia: generic and disease‐specific measures
Authors: Zhu Fen‐Fen , Lin Zheng , Lin Lin , Wang Mei‐Feng
Published: February 2011

zhu f.‐f, lin z., lin l. & wang m.‐f. (2011) Changes in quality of life during biofeedback for people with puborectalis dyssynergia: generic and disease‐specific measures. Journal of Advanced Nursing67(6), 1285–1293.

Aim.  The aim of the study was to evaluate the changes in symptoms and quality of life in people with puborectalis dyssynergia after biofeedback by using Short Form‐36 and Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Background.  Biofeedback is an effective treatment in clinical symptoms for puborectalis dyssynergia. However, little is known about the degree of the variation in the quality of life for these people after biofeedback.

Method.  Thirty‐six people with puborectalis dyssynergia were studied between June 2006 and March 2008. A bowel symptom record, a generic quality of life measure – the Short Form‐36 and a disease‐specific measure – the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life Questionnaire were recorded before and after biofeedback.

Findings.  Thirty‐one people rated their satisfaction with behavioural treatment as ‘major’ or ‘fair’ and substantial symptom improvements occurred. Before treatment, seven of Short Form‐36 subscales (except bodily pain) were significantly lower in people with puborectalis dyssynergia than those in healthy individuals. Following treatment, all subcategories except general health showed improvement surpassing pretreatment baseline values and equalling those for normal. The total Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life Questionnaire score also dramatically improved as did all subscales. The nurses continually encouraged the participants, increased participants’ motivation and got good outcomes.

Conclusion.  Patient‐centred functional status outcomes measured by general and disease‐specific instruments give critical data, from which to inform patient management. The nurses should give psycho‐social support and increase the participants’ motivation during training.
Immunostimulatory Activities of a Decapeptide Derived from Alcaligenes faecalis FY‐3 to Crucian Carp
Authors: Wang G.‐X. , Li F.‐Y. , Cui J. , Wang Y. , Liu Y.‐T. , Han J. , Lei Y.
Published: February 2011

A strain was isolated from a soil sample collected from Weihe river in Shaanxi province (108°03′E 34°14′N), which was identified as Alcaligenes faecalis by 16S rRNA analysis. A compound M showing potent immune activity was isolated from secondary metabolites of the strain through bioassay‐guided isolation techniques. The structure of the compound M was elucidated using FT‐IR, EI‐MS, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra and identified as cyclo‐(l‐Pro‐Gly)5 which was first time reported as a natural product. We evaluated the immune effects of the cyclo‐(l‐Pro‐Gly)5 on the basis of serum lysozyme activity, bacterial agglutination titre assay, superoxide anion production and phagocytic activity assay, and they were found to be significantly increased by cyclo‐(l‐Pro‐Gly)5. The effects of cyclo‐(l‐Pro‐Gly)5 on immune‐related gene expression were further investigated. The outcomes of real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ‐PCR) proved that the transcribing level of interleukin 6β (IL‐6β) and inducible nitric oxide synthase 1β (iNOS‐1β) mRNA in the blood leucocytes have been augmented by cyclo‐(l‐Pro‐Gly)5. The challenge experiment showed that crucian carp injected the cyclo‐(l‐Pro‐Gly)5 had significantly (P < 0.05) lower cumulative mortality (13.0%) compared with the control (45.4%) after infection with live Aeromonas hydrophila. These results suggested that cyclo‐(l‐Pro‐Gly)5 is a possible immunostimulant and may strengthen the immune response and protect the heath status of crucian carp against A. hydrophila.
Avidity of Serogroup A Meningococcal IgG Antibodies after Immunization with Different Doses of a Tetravalent A/C/Y/W135 Polysaccharide Vaccine
Authors: Bårnes G. K. , Næss L. M. , Rosenqvist E. , Guerin P. J. , Caugant D. A. ,   the Fractional Doses Vaccine Study Group
Published: February 2011

In the absence of an affordable conjugate meningococcal vaccine, mass vaccination campaigns with polysaccharide vaccines are the means to control meningitis epidemics in sub‐Saharan Africa. Facing global vaccine shortage, the use of reduced doses, which have been shown to be protective by serum bactericidal activity, can save many lives. In this study, we investigated the antibody responses and avidity of IgG antibodies evoked against the serogroup A capsule of Neisseria meningitidis by different doses of an A/C/Y/W135 polysaccharide vaccine. Volunteers in Uganda were vaccinated with 1/10, 1/5 or a full dose (50 μg) and revaccinated with a full dose after 1 year. Specific IgG geometric mean concentrations and geometric mean avidity indices (GMAI) were determined by a modified enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using thiocyanate as a chaotropic agent. After vaccination with 1/10 or 1/5 doses, the GMAI increased from 1 month to 1 year. One year following the initial dose, the GMAI levels were higher in the arm receiving reduced doses than for the arm receiving a full dose. Following the second full dose, avidity indices equalized at approximately the same level in the three arms. Although there are practical challenges to the use of reduced doses in the field, our findings suggest that reduced doses of polysaccharide vaccine are able to elicit antibodies of as good avidity against serogroup A polysaccharide as a full dose.
Can the impact of public involvement on research be evaluated? A mixed methods study
Authors: Barber Rosemary , Boote Jonathan D , Parry Glenys D , Cooper Cindy L , Yeeles Philippa , Cook Sarah
Published: February 2011

Background  Public involvement is central to health and social research policies, yet few systematic evaluations of its impact have been carried out, raising questions about the feasibility of evaluating the impact of public involvement.

Objective  To investigate whether it is feasible to evaluate the impact of public involvement on health and social research.

Methods  Mixed methods including a two‐round Delphi study with pre‐specified 80% consensus criterion, with follow‐up interviews. UK and international panellists came from different settings, including universities, health and social care institutions and charitable organizations. They comprised researchers, members of the public, research managers, commissioners and policy makers, self‐selected as having knowledge and/or experience of public involvement in health and/or social research; 124 completed both rounds of the Delphi process. A purposive sample of 14 panellists was interviewed.

Results  Consensus was reached that it is feasible to evaluate the impact of public involvement on 5 of 16 impact issues: identifying and prioritizing research topics, disseminating research findings and on key stakeholders. Qualitative analysis revealed the complexities of evaluating a process that is subjective and socially constructed. While many panellists believed that it is morally right to involve the public in research, they also considered that it is appropriate to evaluate the impact of public involvement.

Conclusions  This study found consensus among panellists that it is feasible to evaluate the impact of public involvement on some research processes, outcomes and on key stakeholders. The value of public involvement and the importance of evaluating its impact were endorsed.
X‐linked Alport syndrome in Hellenic families: Phenotypic heterogeneity and mutations near interruptions of the collagen domain in COL4A5
Authors: Demosthenous P , Voskarides K , Stylianou K , Hadjigavriel M , Arsali M , Patsias C , Georgaki E , Zirogiannis P , Stavrou C , Daphnis E , Pierides A , Deltas C ,   the Hellenic Nephrogenetics Research Consortium
Published: February 2011

Demosthenous P, Voskarides K, Stylianou K, Hadjigavriel M, Arsali M, Patsias C, Georgaki E, Zirogiannis P, Stavrou C, Daphnis E, Pierides A, Deltas C, Hellenic Nephrogenetics Research Consortium. X‐linked Alport syndrome in Hellenic families: Phenotypic heterogeneity and mutations near interruptions of the collagen domain in COL4A5.

The X‐linked Alport syndrome (ATS) is caused by mutations in COL4A5 and exhibits a widely variable expression. Usually ATS is heralded with continuous microhematuria which rapidly progresses to proteinuria, hypertension and chronic or end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) by adolescence, frequently accompanied by sensorineural deafness and ocular complications. Milder forms of ATS also exist. We studied 42 patients (19M, 23F) of nine Hellenic families suspected clinically of X‐linked ATS who presented with marked phenotypic heterogeneity. We identified mutations in COL4A5 in six families. Two males with nonsense mutation E228X reached ESRD by ages 14 and 18. Frameshift mutation 2946delT followed the same course with early onset renal involvement and deafness. However, two males with the milder missense mutation G624D, reached ESRD after 39 years and one patient showed thin basement membrane nephropathy (TBMN). Another 5/8 affected males with missense mutation P628L also developed ESRD between 30 and 57 years, while three exhibit only mild chronic renal failure (CRF). The data support previous findings that certain mutations are associated with milder phenotypes and confirm that mutation G624D may be expressed as TBMN with familial hematuria. Similar conclusions apply for missense mutation P628L. Interestingly, mutations G624D and P628L are near the 12th natural interruption of COL4A5 triple helical domain, which may explain the milder phenotype.
Disseminated nocardiosis masking an atypical zygomycosis presentation in a kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Colón‐Santos E. , González‐Ramos M. , Bertrán‐Pasarell J. , Rodríguez‐Vega G. , Almira‐Suarez M. , Vélez‐Rosario R.
Published: February 2011

E. Colón‐Santos, M. González‐Ramos, J. Bertrán‐Pasarell, G. Rodríguez‐Vega, M. Almira‐Suarez, R. Vélez‐Rosario. Disseminated nocardiosis masking an atypical zygomycosis presentation in a kidney transplant recipient. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 380–384. All rights reserved

Abstract: Immunosuppressive agents increase the vulnerability of solid organ transplant patients to opportunistic infections. An atypical clinical presentation of a bacterial and fungal co‐infection makes diagnosis and treatment even more challenging in this population. A 54‐year‐old hypertensive woman underwent a cadaveric kidney transplant after years on hemodialysis. Her treatment included mycophenolate, tacrolimus, and prednisone. By post‐transplant week 8, she had pneumonia followed by progressive visual changes and seizures. Diagnostic work‐up, consisting of magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and chest x‐ray, showed several cerebral ring‐enhancing lesions, and a pulmonary cavitary lesion. Disseminated nocardiosis was suspected and therapy was started. Skin biopsy was taken from a nodular lesion and culture confirmed Nocardia species infection. During hospitalization, neurological deficit persisted with worsening of brain lesions. She underwent excision of a brain abscess and the final pathologic report showed mucormycosis, revealing the patient's co‐infection by 2 different pathogens. After therapy with liposomal amphotericin B and posaconazole, she has remained stable for more than 1 year. Disseminated nocardiosis masked and delayed the diagnosis and treatment of a more aggressive and worrisome organism. Mucormycosis, as a non‐fatal isolated brain abscess without rhinal involvement, is an atypical presentation, and only a few cases have been reported.
The influence of selection on reaction to stress in mice
Authors: Rysińska J. , Kołątaj A. , Flak P.
Published: February 2011

The experiments were conducted on 6 week old mice selected for high weight gains and on unselected control animals.

The mice were given triiodothyronine (T3) injection in dosis 50 and 100 μg/kg BW. Exogenic T3 in both doses caused an increase of glucose level in the blood and aldolase activity in the liver and in kidney. However, LDH activity decreased after T3 administration. Interactions have been observed between the genetic groups, the time of reaction and the T3 level.

It seems, the results obtained indicate that the selected mice are more susceptible to the treatment with exogenic T3 than unselected animals.

Der Einfluß von Selektion auf Streßreaktion bei Mäusen.

I. Einfluß von Trijodthyronin auf Blutglukosespiegel in Aldolase und LDH‐Aktivität in Leber und Niere

Die Versuche wurden an 6‐Wochen alten Mäusen, einer Linie mit Selektion auf Körpergewicht und an einer Kontrolle durchgeführt. Die Mäuse erhielten Trijodthyronin (T3) Injektion u. zw. 50 oder 100 μg/ kg Körpergewicht. In beiden Fällen kam es zu einer Steigerung des Blutglukosespiegels und der Aldolaseaktivität in Leber und Niere, während LDH‐Aktivität abnahm. Es zeigten sich statistische Interaktionen zwischen genetischen Gruppen, Reaktionszeit und T3 Gabe.

Die Resultate deuten auf gesteigerte Empfindlichkeit der Mäuse aus der selektierten Linie gegenüber der T3 Behandlung.
Approximation of sampling variances and confidence intervals for maximum likelihood estimates of variance components
Authors: Meyer K. , Hill W. G.
Published: February 2011

After reviewing pertinent literature on the estimation of sampling variances and confidence intervals in the maximum likelihood framework, a method to approximate these for individual parameters in a multi‐parameter analysis is described. It is based on the profile likelihood, defined as the likelihood for a subset of parameter(s) of interest with the remaining parameters equal to their maximum likelihood estimates given the former. The formation (= inverse of information) matrix for the parameters of the profile likelihood is equal to the corresponding submatrix from the full likelihood. The likelihood ratio test for composite hypotheses effectively compares points on the profile likelihood surface for the parameters tested. Hence sampling errors and confidence intervals for each parameter can be estimated considering its profile likelihood. This can be approximated fitting a one‐dimensional quadratic or higher order polynomial function. Numerical examples for a balanced hierarchical full‐sib design are given.

Näherungswerte für Stichprobenvarianzen und Konfidenzintervalle bei Maximum Likelihood Varianzkomponentenschätzung

Nach Übersicht über die einschlägige Literatur wird eine Näherungsmethode zur Schätzung solcher Stichprobenvarianzen für individuelle Parameter in eine multi‐Parameter‐Analyse gegeben. Sie beruht auf Profil Likelihood, die die Likelihood für eine Untermenge von Parametern darstellt, wenn die verbleibenden Parameter gleich ihren maximalen Likelihood Schätzungen sind. Die Inversion der Informationsmatrix entspricht der korrespondierenden Submatrix der vollen Likelihood. Das Likelihood Verhältnis für zusammengesetzte Hypothesen vergleicht Punkte der Likelihood Fläche hinsichtlich geprüfter Parameter. Es können also Stichprobenfehler und Konfidenzintervalle für jeden Parameter unter Berücksichtigung der Profil Likelihood geschätzt werden, was durch Anpassen einer eindimensionalen quadratischen oder Funktion höherer Ordnung erreicht wird. Numerische Beispiele für einen bilanzierten hierarchischen Vollgeschwister‐Versuch wurden gegeben.
Biochemical blood parameters in pigs
Authors: Lingaas F. , Brun E. , Aarskaug T. , Havre G.
Published: February 2011

A study on heritabilities for 20 biochemical and immunological blood parameters was performed based on blood samples from pigs at a performance testing station belonging to the Norwegian Pig Breeders' Association. The heritability estimates for the blood parameters varied considerably. Two blood parameters (FFA, LDH) had h2lower than 0.1, six were in the range 0.1‐0.2 (ALB, AP, Ca, CK, Mg, TG), five between 0.2‐0.4 (ALAT, CHOL, CREAT, GGT, LYA), while estimated values for the remaining seven were greater than 0.4 (AMYL, ASAT, C3, GLOB, HCA, IgG, TPROT). The medium sized or high estimates of heritability for some of the blood parameters related to disease resistance, are encouraging as far as indirect selection are concerned, because of practical difficulties in recording of some diseases in pig herds. Further studies to reveal the genetic correlation between the blood parameters, and between blood parameters and disease resistance, meat quality or performance traits, should be performed.

Biochemische Blutwerte bei Schweinen. 2. Heritabilitätswerte für 20 Blutparameter

Die Untersuchung über die Heritabilität von 20 biochemischen und immunologischen Blutwerten wurde an Schweinen einer Prüfstation des Norwegischen Schweinezüchterverbandes durchgeführt. Die Heritabilitätsschätzwerte zeigten erhebliche Variabilität; zwei Werte (FFA; LDH) hatten Heritabilitätswerte unter 0.1, sechs im Bereich von 0.1 bis 0.2 (ALB; AP; CA; CK; MG; TG); fünf zwischen 0.2 und 0.4 (ALAT; CHOL; CREAT; GGT; LYS) während bei den restlichen sieben sie über 0.4 lagen (AMYL; ASAT; C3; GLOB; HCA; IgG; PROT). Die mittleren bzw. hohen Heritabilitätsschätzwerte für einige Blutwerte, die in Verbindung mit Krankheitsresistenz sein könnten, sollten im Bezug auf indirekte Selektion ermutigend sein, vor allem da die Schwierigkeiten der Krankheitserfassung in Schweineherden erheblich sind. Weitere Untersuchungen hinsichtlich der genetischen Korrelation zwischen Blutwerten und zwischen diesen und Krankheitsresistenz, Fleischqualität‐ und leistungen sollten durchgeführt werden.
PCR genotyping of the ryanodine receptor gene for a putative causal mutation for malignant hyperthermia in Australian pigs
Authors: Hughes I. P. , Moran C. , Nicholas F. W.
Published: February 2011

A total of 324 Australian pigs from two populations segregating for malignant hyperthermia (MH) were genotyped using a PCR/restriction endonuclease test for the 1843 C‐to‐T mutation in the skeletal muscle ryanodine receptor (ryr 1) gene, previously identified by Fujii et al. (1991) as the causal mutation for MH. Most of the pigs had also been halothane‐tested, and in addition, some had been genotyped at linked biochemical markers. A comparison of error rates for the three testing methods revealed the PCR test to have a genotyping error rate of 2.5%, compared with 2.8% for linked biochemical markers, and an 11.1% error rate for phenotypes defined by the halothane test. The results of the present study substantially extend the generality of the conclusions of Fujii et al. (1991) and Otsu et al. (1991), namely that the only causative MH mutation in ryr 1 is the C‐to‐T transition at nucleotide 1843. With the Australian and European populations tested in this study, this somewhat surprising finding is now consistent across many breeds and three countries, namely Canada, England and Australia.

PCR Typisierung einer vermuteten Mutation für maligne Hyperthermie bei australischen Schweinen

Insgesamt 324 Tiere zweier Populationen, in denen maligne Hyperthermie (MH) vorkam, wurden mittels PCR/Restriktions‐Endonukleasetest für die 1843 C‐zu‐T‐Mutation im Skelettmuskel Ryanodinerezeptor (ryr 1) Gen typisiert. Das Gen wurde von Fujii u. Ma. (1991) als die Ursache für MH identifiziert. Die meisten Schweine waren mit Halothan geprüft worden und einige zusätzlich anhand gekoppelter biochemischer Markergene. Im Vergleich der Fehlerraten der drei Prüfmethoden ergab PCR eine von 2.5% im Vergleich zu 2.8% bei gekoppelten biochemischen Markern und 11.1 für Phänotypen aufgrund des Halothantests. Die Ergebnisse dieser gegenwärtigen Untersuchungen generalisieren die von Fujii u. Ma. und Otsu u. Ma. (1991) getroffene Schlußfolgerungen, nämlich daß die einzige ursprüngliche MH Mutation C‐zu‐T Transition im Nukleotid 1843 des ryrl Gen ist. Nach Untersuchungen in australischen und europäischen Populationen erscheint der etwas überraschende Befund über Rassen und Länder, also Kanada, England, Australien hinweg bestätigt zu werden.
Alterations of serum triiodothyronine levels during reduced and compensatory growth of steers
Authors: Blum J. W. , Thomson E. F. , Bickel H.
Published: February 2011

Veränderungen von Trijodthyronin im Serum während vermindertem und kompensatorischem Wachstum bei Ochsen

Bei 6 Ochsen wurden Blutserumkonzentrationen von 3,5,3′‐Trijodthyronin (T3) und Wachstumsraten während energetischer Unterversorgung und Wiederauffütterung gemessen. Energetische Unterversorgung war charakterisiert durch verminderte tägliche Zunahmen (534 g) und signifikant (P < 0.001) tiefere T3‐Konzentrationen (78 ng/ 100 ml) im Vergleich zu den Kontrolltieren (tägliche Zunahmen: 848 g; T3‐Konzen‐trationen: 110 ng/100 ml). Die ursprünglich energetisch unterversorgten Tiere zeigten kompensatorisches Wachstum, da die täglichen Zunahmen höher waren (971 g) trotz tieferer Energiezufuhr als bei den Kontrolltieren. Die T3‐Konzentrationen (106 ng/ 100 ml) waren aber ähnlich wie bei den Kontrolltieren (108 ng/100 ml). Die verbesserte Verwertung von Futterenergie während kompensatorischem Wachstum war somit nicht bedingt durch eine entsprechende Zunahme der T3‐Konzentrationen.
Arbeitswerte in der Laboratoriumsdiagnostik beim Rind1
Authors: Baumgartner W.
Published: February 2011

An acht weiblichen Fleckviehrindern wurden ab einem Lebensalter von acht bis zehn Wochen bis zur 2.

Abkalbung alle sechs Wochen Blutproben zur Bestimmung der freien Aminosäuren im Plasma enmommen. Ein Einfluß von Alter und Trächtigkeit der Tiere auf die Aminosäuregehalte konnte festgestellt werden.
Zur Wirkung von Citronensäure im Stoffwechsel
Authors: Grassmann E. , Kirchgessner M.
Published: February 2011

In Untersuchungen zur Wirkung von Citronensäurezulagen in Höhe von 0, 1, 2 und 5 % auf den Stoffwechsel der wachsenden Ratte, wurden bei der höchsten Dosierung sowohl um 10% verbesserte durchschnittliche Zunahmen als auch eine um 7 % günstigere Futterverwertung beobachtet. Gleichzeitig erhöhte sich die Energiekonzentration in der Trockensubstanz dieser Tiere; die Aktivität der Succinatdehydrogenase in der Leber wie auch die Serumharnstoffkonzentrationen waren erniedrigt.
Zur Energetik der Proteinsynthese beim Wachstum1
Authors: Müller H. L. , Kirchgessner M.
Published: February 2011

Der Energieaufwand für die Proteinbildung ist erst in den letzten Jahren sowohl im Gesamt‐stoffwechselversuch als auch in theoretisch‐biochemischer Hinsicht untersucht worden. Die Energiekosten belaufen sich nach dem Regressionsmodell der Stoffwechselversuche auf etwa 2,0 kJ/kJ Proteinretention, während der theoretische Aufwand mit 1,15 kJ/kJ einzuschät‐zen ist. Mögliche Einflüsse auf diese Diskrepanz werden auf ihre quantitative Bedeutung hin überprüft. Dabei zeigte sich, daß die Berücksichtigung von Faktoren wie Harnstoffsynthe‐se, Harnstoffexkretion, Entropieabnahme in Makromolekülen und die Proteinqualität als zusätzliche Variablen nur eine minimale Senkung der im Regressionsmodell geschätzten Kosten der Proteinretention erbrachten.

Eine Näherung an den theoretischen Wirkungsgrad ergab sich jedoch, wenn in die regressionsanalytische Berechnung der Proteinturnover einbezogen wurde. Die daraus postulierte Umsatzgeschwindigkeit des Körperproteins stimmt mit Resultaten der direkten Messung fraktioneller Proteinsyntheseraten überein.
Ein Vorschlag zur Definition und zur experimentellen Bestimmung des Proteinretentionsvermögens wachsender Tiere1
Authors: Menke K. H.
Published: February 2011

Das Proteinretentionsvermögen A wird als das Maximum einer quadratischen Funktion mit x = IMEx (Aufnahme an umsetzb. Energie) und y = RPEx (Retention an Energie im Protein) definiert und in kJ/kg W3/4 ausgedrückt. Zur Bestimmung werden N‐Bilanzversuche mit gestaffeltem Fütterungsniveau bei konstanter Rationszusammensetzung vorgeschlagen. Erste Versuche nach diesem Prinzip haben Werte für A in der Größenordnung von 600 kJ bei jungen Schweinen im Gewicht von 30 bis 40 kg ergeben, die im Laufe der Mast auf 150–200 kJ fallen. Am Beispiel von Respirationsversuchen mit wachsenden Schweinen wird gezeigt, daß zwischen dem Ausschöpfungsgrad des so bestimmten Proteinretentionsvermögens und der Zusammensetzung des Zuwachses eine funktional beschreibbare Beziehung besteht. Mit steigendem Körpergewicht (W) fällt das aus der Zusammensetzung des Zuwachses berechnete Proteinretentionsvermögen gemäß der Gleichung: A = 1090 — 22,16 W + 0,1355 W2. Zwischen dem Proteinretentionsvermögen A und dem Verwertungskoeffizienten kw.c (=Regressionskoeffizient b1 der quadratischen Proteinansatzfunktion) sowie dem Körpergewicht besteht ebenfalls eine hochsignifikante Beziehung:

A= ‐0,1706 + 4,097 kw.o ‐ 0,004036 W. Es wird gezeigt, wie mit Hilfe dieser Kenndaten eine Optimierung sowohl der Rationszusammensetzung als auch der Futtermengenzuteilung erfolgen kann.
Untersuchungen zur Dynamik des P‐Stoffwechsels bei der wachsenden Ratte1
Authors: Abel Hj. , Eyo Eyo S. , Rosenow Heide , Günther K.D.
Published: February 2011

In zwei Versuchen mit männlichen Ratten wurden mit Hilfe von 32P‐Transport‐Raten im extrazellulären Flüssigkeitsraum (zentrales Kompartment) sowie in 14 peripheren Kompartments bestimmt.

Die P‐Transport‐Rate in das zentrale Kompartment hinein belief sich bei durchschnittlich 99 g schweren Ratten 3 Std. nach Verfütterung einer mit Monocalciumphosphat und CaCO3 supplementierten Grunddiät auf 422μg P/min. Gleichzeitig wurden 421μg P/min. aus dem zentralen Kompartment heraustransportiert. Die peripheren Kompartments nahmen 439 μg P/min auf und gaben 444 μg P/min ab.

In einem Versuch mit durchschnittlich 118 g schweren Ratten, deren Futter mit Dicalciumphosphat und CaCO3 supplementiert worden war, betrug die P‐Transport‐Rate in das zentrale Kompartment hinein 2 Std. nach der Fütterung 718μg P/min, während 716 μg P/min. heraustransportiert wurden. Die peripheren Kompartments nahmen 744 μg P/min auf und gaben 740 μg P/min ab.

In beiden Versuchen stimmten die sich entsprechenden, auf alternativen Wegen berechneten P‐Transport‐Raten mit maximal 5% Abweichung gut überein.

Für vergleichende ernährungsphysiologische Untersuchungen dürfte die Standardisierung der Methode zur quantitativen Beschreibung der Dynamik des P‐Stoffwechsels hinsichtlich Homogenität des erforderlichen Tiermaterials auf Schwierigkeiten stoßen.
Insect Protein as a Possible Source of Protein to Poultry1
Authors: Gawaad A. A. Abdel , Brune H.
Published: February 2011

Insekten‐Eiweiß als möglicher Eiweißträger in der Geflügelernährung

Eine Mischung getrockneter gemahlener Larven der Stubenfliege (Musca domestica L.) und der Glanzfliege (Phormia terrae novae R.) wurde als Futterkomponente am Broiler bis zur 5. Lebenswoche getestet.

Das detaillierte Analysenergebnis von Larvenmehl (Weender Analyse, Aminosäuremu‐ster) zeigte, daß Larvenmehl mit Fischmehl oder extrahiertem Sojaschrot nahezu vergleich‐bar ist.

In Bezug zum Geflügelfutter ist Methionin im Larvenmehl die erste limitierende Amino‐säure. Ähnliche Werte hinsichtlich der Gewichtszunahme, der Futterverwertung und der Schlachtkörperzusammensetzung wurden, verglichen mit einer isonitrogenen Diät auf Legemehlbasis, im Fütterungsversuch mit Broilern gefunden. Die verzehrbaren Teile des Schlachtkörpers, Brust‐, Schenkelfleisch und Leber sowie die Knochen, wurden zerlegt, gewogen und auf ihren Gehalt an Wasser, Protein, Fett und Asche untersucht.

Die eßbaren Anteile zeigten Unterschiede im Wasser‐, Protein‐ und Fettgehalt. Die Zusammensetzung der Leber und der Knochen stimmte jedoch gut überein.

In einem organoleptischen Test mit der gedämpften Hähnchenbrust konnten keine aus‐geprägten Einflüsse auf Farbe, Geruch und Geschmack infolge der Verfütterung der Lar‐ven‐Ration festgestellt werden.

Larvenmehl kann als ein geeigneter Eiweißträger für die Broilerproduktion dazu beitragen, in verschiedenen Ländern den Protein‐Mangel zu beheben. Voraussetzung dafür sind jedoch geeignete klimatische Bedingungen, vorhandene Abfälle und eine ausgefeilte Pro‐duktionstechnik.
The influence of starvation, transport and crowding on the level of thiol groups in pigs
Authors: ŚWiderska‐Kolacz G. , Kolataj A. , Klusek J.
Published: February 2011

The investigation was performed on 9‐month‐old (H‐) Landrace and Duroc pigs of body weight 100 ± 10 kg. The animals were subjected to a 6‐h transport over a distance of 300 km, a 7‐day starvation, and 7‐day crowding. After starvation, crowding and transport a decrease of the level of non‐protein thiol (SH) groups in the liver, kidney and muscle were observed.

Der Einfluß von einigen Stressfaktoren wie Nahrungsentug, Transport und Besatzdichte auf den Gehalt an SH‐Gruppen in einigen Geweben beim Schwein.

Die Untersuchungen wurden an 9 Monate alten Landrasse‐ und Duroc‐Schweinen im Gewichtsbereich von 100 ± 0 kg durchgeführt. Als Stressfaktoren wurden ein 6‐stündiger Transport über 300 km, ein 7‐tägiger Nahrungsentzug und eine Erhöhung der Besatzdichte herangezogen.

Nach dem Transportstress, nach Nahrungsentzug bzw. Erhöhung der Besatzdichte wurde eine Verminderung der freien SH‐Gruppen in der Leber, den Nieren und im Muskelgewebe beobachtet.
Asian chronic pancreatitis: The common and the unique
Authors: Rerknimitr Rungsun
Published: February 2011

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a disabling condition worldwide that presents as pain, maldigestion, and diabetes. It is usually perceived as alcohol related, or classified as idiopathic otherwise. However, this is true only for Western countries. Asian CP comprises not only alcohol‐related CP but also tropical pancreatitis (TP). Tropical pancreatitis is a unique entity commonly found in South Asia. It shares similar presentations with other CPs for pain and maldigestion. However, its diabetes is more ketosis resistant. Non‐surgical approach like endoscopic therapy plus extracoporeal shock wave lithotripsy provides better outcome for TP than other CPs, because of its less strictured pancreatic duct that is more amenable to endoscopic stone clearance. Diagnosis of CP in Asia mainly relies on image studies such as ultrasonography ± computed tomography (CT) scan, and non‐invasive tests on fecal chymotrypsin, serum trypsin, and serum pancreatic isoamylase. Endoscopic ultrasonography and intestinal tubing tests are used mainly in some research centers. Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is another CP originated from Asia in large series and subsequently being recognized in the West. AIP patients seldom present with maldigestion until the disease progresses to a very late stage and this occurs in less than one third of patients. In contrast, AIP is usually presented as pseudotumor of the pancreatic head, causing obstructive jaundice. Immunoglobulin G4 level is typically elevated in AIP and can be used as a marker for responsiveness. Without a need of surgery, steroids are the standard treatment. Those who relapse and are resistant to steroids should be placed on long‐term immunosuppressive agents.
Current use of aminoglycosides: indications, pharmacokinetics and monitoring for toxicity
Authors: Avent M. L. , Rogers B. A. , Cheng A. C. , Paterson D. L.
Published: February 2011

The new Australian Therapeutic Guidelines: Antibiotic, version 14 have revised the recommendations for the use and monitoring of aminoglycosides. The guidelines have clear distinctions between empirical and directed therapy as well as revised recommendations about the monitoring of aminoglycosides. This has led many clinicians to review their current practice with regard to the use of aminoglycosides. This review summarizes why aminoglycosides are still a valid treatment option and discusses the rationale for current dosing regimens in Gram‐negative infections. In particular it focuses on the various methods for monitoring aminoglycosides that are currently being used. The aminoglycoside monitoring methods can be categorized into three groups: linear regression analysis (one compartment model), population methods and Bayesian estimation procedures. Although the population methods are easy to use and require minimal resources they can recommend clinically inappropriate doses as they have constant pharmacokinetic parameters and are not valid in special population groups, that is, renal impairment. The linear regression and Bayesian methods recommend more accurate dosage regimens; however, they require additional resources, such as information technology and healthcare personnel with background training in pharmacokinetics. The Bayesian methods offer additional advantages, such as calculation of doses based on a single serum concentration and optimization of the patient's previous pharmacokinetic data, in order to determine subsequent dosage regimens. We recommend the Bayesian estimation procedures be used, wherever feasible. However, they require the expertise of healthcare practitioners with a good understanding of pharmacokinetic principles, such as clinical pharmacists/clinical pharmacologists, in order to make appropriate recommendations.
Feasibility and efficacy of placement of continuous sciatic perineural catheters solely under ultrasound guidance in children: a descriptive study
Authors: Ponde Vrushali C. , Desai Ankit P. , Shah Dipal M. , Johari Ashok N.
Published: February 2011

Background:  Placement of sciatic catheters with ultrasound and stimulating catheters is known. Literature regarding catheter placements with only ultrasound is limited. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of performing continuous sciatic nerve block exclusively with ultrasound guidance and minimal equipment.

Method:  Forty ASA 1 and 2 patients aged 8 months–10 years posted for congenital talipoequinovarus surgery were included in the study. Continuous sciatic catheters were placed under ultrasound guidance with 18‐ gauge Tuohy needle at the infragluteal fold. Then, 0.25% of bupivacaine 0.5 ml·kg−1 bolus was injected followed by continuous infusion later. Half the volume of the drug was injected prior to catheter insertion to improve visibility. The sciatic nerve, needle tip and shaft, catheter tip and the drug spread were visualized. The efficacy of the block intraoperatively and postoperatively was evaluated.

Results:  The sciatic nerve, needle shaft, and tip were well visualized in all 40 patients. The catheter tip was seen in 72.5% of patients. The effect of block was complete intraoperatively and postoperatively. Clinically significant complications were absent.

Conclusion:  We conclude that in children, continuous sciatic catheters can be accurately and efficaciously placed with minimal equipment with ultrasound alone.
Defining awakening from anesthesia in infants: a narrative review of published descriptions and scales of behavior
Authors: Sury Michael R. J. , Bould Matthew D.
Published: February 2011

Objectives:  A descriptive tool or validated scale of consciousness is desirable in infants to test the value of any depth of anesthesia monitor.

Methods:  We have reviewed published descriptions and scales of observed behavior that may be applicable to the study of infants during the transition from anesthesia to wakefulness.

Results:  Potentially useful scales were found that had been developed for the assessment and study of natural sleep, neurological state, arousal, anesthesia, sedation, coma, and pain. Scales or criteria of behavior had been developed for anesthetised children, but there were no agreed definitions or criteria specifically for anesthetised infants or neonates.

Conclusion:  Criteria for awakening of infants from anesthesia need to be developed and agreed.
What drives the dating game of executive options exercise? Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Wu Ming‐Cheng , Fung Hung‐Gay , Huang Yi‐Ting
Published: February 2011

Examining Taiwanese firms from 2002 to 2008, this paper investigates the motivations behind backdating the exercising of executive stock options. The probability of suspect exercises (backdating) is positively related to the firm’s stock return, the value of the option, tax savings, institutional ownership and the extent of CEO equity ownership and negatively related to firm‐specific risk and the use of Big Four accounting firms. Tax incentives motivate executives to backdate the exercise date, implying that the greater the potential for larger tax savings, the greater the likelihood of backdating. Backdating usually occurs in firms that have heavy ownership by the CEO, have more claims to executive stock options and are not family‐run, confirming the presence of the agency cost problem.
Life Satisfaction Dynamics with Quarterly Life Event Data*
Authors: Frijters Paul , Johnston David W. , Shields Michael A.
Published: February 2011

Using life satisfaction responses from Australian panel data we examine the questions of when and to what extent individuals are affected by major positive and negative life events, including changes in financial situation, marital status, death of a close relative, and being the victim of crime. The key advantage of our data is that we are able to identify these events on a quarterly basis rather than on the yearly basis used by previous studies. We find evidence that life events are not randomly distributed, that individuals anticipate major events to a large extent, and that they fully adapt to many events within 12 months. The estimates can be used to calculate monetary values needed to compensate individuals for life events. Using a new valuation methodology that incorporates these dynamic factors produces considerably smaller compensation valuations than those calculated using the standard approach.
Federalism, Fertility, and Growth
Authors: Borck Rainald
Published: February 2011

This paper analyses the effect of federalism on fertility and growth. In a model with human capital accumulation and endogenous fertility, two regimes of education finance are compared: central and local. I find that local education finance yields higher growth at the price of increased inequality. The effect of federalism on total and differential fertility rates depends on the elasticity of substitution between children and consumption. The paper also empirically examines the relationship between fertility rates and fiscal decentralisation on a panel of OECD countries and finds a weak negative effect of decentralisation on total and differential (poor minus rich) fertility.
Links between Mountain Communities and Environmental Services in the Italian Alps
Authors: Notaro Sandra , Paletto Alessandro
Published: February 2011

The aim of this study is to evaluate the importance of mountain communities in increasing the value of environmental services. The assumption of the research is that, for historical and cultural reasons there is a greater sense of local identity and social capital in alpine communities and thus greater attention to the environment. In these communities individuals with a higher level of social capital will have a greater tendency to play a tangible role in the preservation of the environment. The study concerns the municipality of Premana in the Italian Alps. We evaluated forest and alpine pasture environmental services using the contingent valuation (CV) method. We interviewed 319 randomly selected residents (14 per cent of the population), asking them about their willingness to pay or donate work hours. Their annual mean willingness to pay was €94 and €896 in working hours, respectively. The CV results, together with other data collected through the questionnaire, demonstrate that local traditions and social capital play a key role in the multifunctional management of forests and alpine pastures. We suggest that studies such as this one on the benefits evaluation of the environmental services of mountain resources might be used for the formation and implementation of better informed policies that will affect the future of mountain communities.
WHITE PROTESTANTS AND BLACK CHRISTIANS: The Absence and Presence of Whiteness in the Face of the Black Manifesto
Authors: Harvey Jennifer
Published: February 2011

This essay brings Critical Whiteness Studies into liberationist Christian ethics in order to analyze white Protestant responses to the 1969 Black Manifesto, which demanded reparations from white churches. The essay's primary argument is that the absence of a sense of white moral agency among white Protestants manifested itself in behaviors and rhetoric that ensured whiteness went unacknowledged, which caused Protestant responses to the Manifesto to fail. A related argument is that white behavior and rhetoric were particularly dramatic because of the call for reparations. Reparations assume that race is a material relationship in which there has been a perpetrator and a victim, rendering the acknowledgment of white agency unavoidable. This essay thus analyzes several ways in which whites can be seen turning away from white selves, turning a scrutinizing gaze instead to Black selves and, in the process, absenting white agency from the work of racial justice.
THE CONCEPT OF DIGNITY IN THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Authors: Hughes Glenn
Published: February 2011

This essay examines the function of the concept of human dignity (both as an inherent feature of human existence and as an ideal achievement) in the United Nations's 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It explains why the key framers of the document affirmed an inherent human dignity in order to provide an explanatory basis for the validity of universal human rights while eschewing any religious or metaphysical justification for this affirmation. It argues that the key framers, while aware of the Christian anthropology informing the modern Western concept of the dignity of the person, grasped (1) that the Declaration, to be ratifiable, would need to be free of religious reference, and also (2) that the notion of inherency suffices to suggest heuristically not only a universal human nature but also, crucially, a transcendent reality in which all persons participate.
Bioclimatic constraints to Andean cat distribution: a modelling application for rare species
Authors: Marino Jorgelina , Bennett Magdalena , Cossios Daniel , Iriarte Agustin , Lucherini Mauro , Pliscoff Patricio , Sillero‐Zubiri Claudio , Villalba Lilian , Walker Susan
Published: February 2011

Aim To identify the bioclimatic niche of the endangered Andean cat (Leopardus jacobita), one of the rarest and least known felids in the world, by developing a species distribution model.

Location South America, High Andes and Patagonian steppe. Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina.

Methods We used 108 Andean cat records to build the models, and 27 to test them, applying the Maxent algorithm to sets of uncorrelated bioclimatic variables from global databases, including elevation. We based our biogeographical interpretations on the examination of the predicted geographic range, the modelled response curves and latitudinal variations in climatic variables associated with the locality data.

Results Simple bioclimatic models for Andean cats were highly predictive with only 3–4 explanatory variables. The climatic niche of the species was defined by extreme diurnal variations in temperature, cold minimum and moderate maximum temperatures, and aridity, characteristic not only of the Andean highlands but also of the Patagonian steppe. Argentina had the highest representation of suitable climates, and Chile the lowest. The most favourable conditions were centrally located and spanned across international boundaries. Discontinuities in suitable climatic conditions coincided with three biogeographical barriers associated with climatic or topographic transitions.

Main conclusions Simple bioclimatic models can produce useful predictions of suitable climatic conditions for rare species, including major biogeographical constraints. In our study case, these constraints are also known to affect the distribution of other Andean species and the genetic structure of Andean cat populations. We recommend surveys of areas with suitable climates and no Andean cat records, including the corridor connecting two core populations. The inclusion of landscape variables at finer scales, crucially the distribution of Andean cat prey, would contribute to refine our predictions for conservation applications.
Potent antitumor and antineoplastic efficacy of baicalein on benzo(a)pyrene‐induced experimental pulmonary tumorigenesis
Authors: Naveenkumar Chandrashekar , Asokkumar Selvamani , Raghunandhakumar Subramanian , Jagan Sundaram , Anandakumar Pandi , Augustine Titto Alby , Kamaraj Sattu , Devaki Thiruvengadam
Published: February 2011

Current study aims to evaluate the efficacy of baicalein (BE), a naturally occurring bioactive flavanoid (5,6,7‐trihydroxy‐flavone), at a dose of 12 mg/kg body wt in Swiss albino mice exposed to tobacco‐specific carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P] (50 mg/kg body wt) for its ability to mitigate pulmonary adenoma formation and growth. Under coarse observation, B(a)P‐administered mice, after 16 weeks, developed macroscopically detectable tumors, whereas oral treatment with BE to the lung cancer–induced mice significantly reduced tumor incidence in 16‐week pre‐ and posttreated groups. A detailed histopathological examination of lung was conducted to determine the degree of cancer progression. Incidence of anaplasia, hyperplasia, dysplasia, severe dysplasia, and adenocarcinoma were evident in carcinogen‐administrated group in 6, 10, 12, 14, and 16th weeks, respectively, whereas these anomalies were effectively reduced after pre‐ and posttreatment with BE. In the pretreatment group, BE significantly arrested tumor multiplicity by approximately 65% and tumor load by approximately 88%, while in the posttreatment, the compound significantly reduced the tumor multiplicity by approximately 48% and tumor load by approximately 61%. Further analysis of serum tumor markers like carcinoembryonic antigen, CK 19 fragments (CYFRA 21‐1), and tissue marker enzymes like aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, adenosine deaminase, γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase, 5′‐nucleotidase, and lactate dehydrogenase in serum and lung homogenate was carried out to substantiate the anticarcinogenic effect of BE. The overall data from our experiments suggested that BE significantly inhibited pulmonary adenoma formation and growth, thus revealing its potent antitumorigenic effect.