bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of different entomopathogens on white grubs (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in an organic hay-producing grassland
Authors: Laznik Ziga , Vidrih Matej , Trdan Stanislav
Published: October 2012

In 2011, a field block trial examined the biological control of white grubs
of June beetle (Amphimallon solstitialis), margined vine chafer (Anomala
dubia) and garden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola) on a permanent cut
grassland in Gotenica (SE Slovenia). The efficacy of Beauveria brongniartii,
Beauveria bassiana, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki and Heterorhabditis
bacteriophora in the form of water suspension and infested grain was tested
against a control treatment. The initial number of white grubs (April 12; 39
white grubs/m2) was reduced with all tested entomopathogens up until the
third evaluation (May 26; 32 white grubs/m2). However, the studied treatments
were not sufficient to reduce the white grub population in the soils below
the economical threshold (20 individuals/m2). The average number of white
grubs was affected mostly by the treatment where the active ingredient was B.
thuringiensis var. kurstaki. With one application in April, only the
abundance of overwintered white grubs was reduced. To decrease the summer
generation of white grubs, an application of biological agents is also
required at a later time. The 8% higher dry matter yield at the first cut
(June 10) compared to the second cut (September 6) provided evidence for the
prior statement.
Cervical human papillomavirus infection in Serbia: Risk factors, prevalence and genotype distribution in women with normal cervical cytology
Authors: Knezevic Aleksandra , Aleksic Gordana , Soldatovic I. , Banko Ana , Jovanovic Tanja
Published: October 2012

Sexual behavioral and other risk factors and the prevalence of genital human
papillomavirus (HPV) infection are very important for the monitoring of HPV
infection and cervical cancer prevention strategies. The purpose of this
study was to determine the risk factors, prevalence of cervical HPV infection
and genotype distribution among asymptomatic young women with normal cytology
in Serbia. A total of 204 consenting young women were enrolled in this study
and interviewed about risk factors. The presence of HPV DNA was assessed
using the PCR method. HPV genotypes were identified by direct sequencing.
Cervical HPV infection was detected in 19.1% of women. Out of nine identified
HPV genotypes, types 16 and 52 were the most frequent. A significant
association was found only between the number of sexual partners and HPV
positivity (p<0.05). The obtained results showed the high prevalence of
high-risk HPV types among young women in Serbia.
Primary HIV-1 resistance: Persistence of transmitted drug resistance mutations
Authors: Nikolic Valentina , Salemovic D. , Jevtovic Dj. , Pesic-Pavlovic I. , Zerjav S. , Ranin J. , Siljic M. , Stanojevic M.
Published: October 2012

Transmitted drug resistance (TDR) is one of the consequences of the high
variability of HIV-1. The widespread use of antiretroviral therapy for the
treatment of HIV-1 infection results in a large circulating pool of resistant
virus variants. It is known that TDR mutations can persist for extended
periods and may pose an important problem to the overall success of
antiretroviral therapy. Factors that determine the duration of continuous
persistence of resistance-associated mutations are the number and type of
these mutations and their impact on viral fitness. Here we describe the
follow-up of a case study of prolonged persistence of resistance-associated
mutations, namely RT mutations Q151M, K65KR and Y181C conferring an
intermediate-to-high level resistance to multiple NRTIs and NNRTIs that
lasted for seven years. The infection was caused by subtype G virus.
Complete genome sequences and phylogenetic analysis of Hepatitis B virus isolates from Serbia
Authors: Lazarevic Ivana , Cupic Maja , Delic D. , Stojkovic-Svirtlih Neda , Simonovic Jamina , Banko Ana , Jovanovic Tanja
Published: October 2012

Although the genotype and subgenotype distribution of HBV isolates from
Serbia has previously been reported, data about whole genome sequences from
this area are scarce. This study included plasma samples from 5 chronically
infected patients. Full genome amplification of the HBV isolates was
performed by nested-PCR using 7 primer pairs, and the whole genome nucleotide
sequences were obtained by direct sequencing. Two complete genome sequences
belonged to D2 subgenotype (ayw3 HBsAg subtype), one to D1 (ayw2) and two to
A2 (adw2). All 5 Serbian isolates clustered with sequences from the expected
geographic regions and had nucleotide and coded protein length in accordance
to their assigned genotypes, except for one HBeAg-negative isolate displaying
G1896A mutation leading to a premature stop codon in the Pre-C region. The
first complete genome sequences of HBV D1, D2 and A2 subgenotypes from
Serbian patients showed characteristics similar to the nucleotide sequences
of HBV isolates from other European and Middle East countries.
Nosocomial infections and microbiological agents in an intensive care unit
Authors: Cosic Gorana , Djekic Jelena , Rajcevic Smiljana , Ristic M. , Ikonic N.
Published: October 2012

Hospital environments provide a special setting for the interaction of
microbiological agents of infection and a host of patients and healthcare
workers. Although the basic tenets about the spread of infections in hospital
have not changed, new issues have emerged that make infection control more
problematic. The aim of this paper was to provide the epidemiological
characteristics of nosocomial infections and pathogens among patients in an
intensive care unit (ICU), the department with the highest risk of the
infections associated with medical devices and healthcare.
Epidemiological characteristics of Q fever in Vojvodina province, Serbia, 1985-2009
Authors: Cosic Gorana , Djekic Jelena , Djuric P. , Seguljev Z. , Petrovic M. , Rajcevic S.
Published: October 2012

Due to the atypical symptoms and signs of Q fever, the high incidence of mild
infections and the fact that in our region the appearance of this
anthropozoonosis is linked to the lambing season (the end of winter and
beginning of spring), when the greatest frequency of respiratory infections
is manifested, Q fever is not recognized very often. The possible lethal
complications, the fact that Coxiella burnetii can survive for years in the
environment and be transferred by airstream in great breathing spaces, the
small infectious dose necessary to cause the disease and speculation as to
its possible use in bioterrorism, make it a significant public health
problem. The aim of our study was to give some data on Q fever in the
Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, Serbia, an area with a high degree of
agricultural activity.
Macrolide-resistant phenotypes of invasive streptococcus pneumoniae isolates in Serbia
Authors: Gajic Ina , Opavski Natasa , Mijac Vera , Ranin L.
Published: October 2012

Macrolide resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae has emerged as an important
worldwide problem over the past decade. The aim of this study was to
investigate macrolide-resistant phenotypes and the antimicrobial
susceptibility patterns of invasive pneumococci in Serbia. A total of 68
invasive pneumococcal strains, collected from 2009 to 2011, were sent from
regional laboratories to the National Reference Laboratory. Susceptibility
testing was performed using the VITEK2 system and phenotypes were determined
by triple-test. Overall penicillin and erythromycin nonsusceptibility rates
were 26% and 43%, respectively. Resistance rates were higher in children than
in adults. Co-resistance to penicillin and erythromycin was detected in 18%
strains. Resistance rates to the third generation of cephalosporins, TMP-SXT
and tetracycline were 16%, 37% and 29%, respectively. All isolates were fully
susceptible to vancomycin, linezolid, fluoroquinolones, telithromycin and
rifampicin. Twenty-two isolates (79%) an expressed
macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B (MLSB) resistance phenotype and M
phenotype was found in 21% of macrolide resistant strains.
The prevalence of human polyomaviruses in urine samples of immunocompetent individuals in the Serbian population
Authors: Karalic Danijela , Lazarevic Ivana , Cupic Maja , Jovanovic Tanja
Published: October 2012

The BK (BKV) and JC viruses (JCV) are human polyomaviruses. After primary
infection, they persist as latent infection in the kidneys. Immunosuppression
leads to their reactivation, which is associated with life-threatening
diseases such as polyomavirus-induced nephropathy and progressive multifocal
leukoencephalopathy. However, the behavior of these viruses in
immunocompetent individuals is still an open question with no right answer.
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of BKV and JCV shedding
in the urine of immunocompetent individuals from the Serbian population.
Sixty-five urine samples were collected and tested for the presence of BKV
and JCV DNA by PCR. JCV DNA was detected in 19/65 (29.2%) and BKV DNA in 3/65
(4.6%) of the urine samples. Forty-three (66.2%) urine samples of the
immunocompetent donors were negative for both viruses. The present study
provides the first results of urinary excretion of human polyomaviruses in
the Serbian population.
Human norovirus transmission due to contaminated fresh fruit and vegetables
Authors: Radin Dragoslava
Published: October 2012

Almost any ready-to-eat fruit or vegetable that has been contaminated with
pathogens, either from the environment, human or animal feces or through
storage, processing and handling, could potentially cause disease. This
problem is particularly associated with the occurrence of human intestinal
viruses, especially noroviruses, which are of major epidemiological
significance as a common cause of both epidemic and sporadic non-bacterial
gastroenteritis in humans. Many outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis associated
with fresh fruit and vegetables have been described. The rise in incidence of
human norovirus outbreaks may be the result of increased consumption of fresh
produce, availability of new commodities, export/import and transport around
the globe, changes in production practices, improved reporting and detection
methods.
Polymerase chain reaction in the identification of periodontopathogens: A reliable and satisfactory method?
Authors: Nikolic-Jakoba Natasa , Vojnovic Sandra , Pavic A. , Jankovic S. , Lekovic V. , Vasiljevic Branka
Published: October 2012

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is considered one of the bacterial
species of etiological importance in periodontitis. The aim of this study was
to evaluate the serotype of A. actinomycetemcomitans in the subgingival
biofilm in subjects with periodontal health and disease. Pooled samples of
subgingival plaque were taken for culture-based identification of
microorganisms. Colonies suspected to be A. actinomycetemcomitans were
selected for molecular identification using either multiplex or conventional
PCR in serotype-specific genotyping and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. In silico
analysis showed that most selected colonies belong to the genus
Campylobacter, although positive signals for serotypes of A.
actinomycetemcomitans were obtained with these samples. Identification of A.
actinomycetemcomitans by conventional PCR for 16S rRNA with one
species-specific and one universal primer was inconclusive because an almost
identical signal with Campylobacter gracilis was obtained. Although PCR-based
methods for the identification of A. actinomycetemcomitans are more rapid,
sequencing should not be omitted.
The availability of a lactose medium for tea fungus culture and Kombucha fermentation
Authors: Markov S.L. , Cvetkovic D.D. , Velicanski Aleksandra
Published: October 2012

Kombucha is a traditional beverage that is prepared by fermenting
sucrose-sweetened black tea. A medium is inoculated with a cellulose pellicle
(popularly known as a ?tea fungus?) or fermentation brought from previous
cultivation process. Our aim was to test the possibility of obtaining a
Kombucha beverage using different concentration of lactose as an alternative
source of C-atoms. A traditional medium sweetened with sucrose or without
sugar was used as control. Without lactose-fermenting yeast strains in tea
fungus, lactose is not an adequate alternative source of the C-atom for
Kombucha fermentation because it is not possible to obtain Kombucha with an
appropriate acidity during a seven-day fermentation. Compared with the
traditional medium, fermentation is significantly slower with high
differences in acid content. In unsweetened tea inoculated with the beverage
obtained from a previous traditional process, Kombucha fermentation processes
and produces a beverage without sugar and alcohol.
The fungistatic activity of organic selenium and its application to the production of cultivated mushrooms Agaricus bisporus and Pleurotus spp.
Authors: Savic Milena , Anedjelkovic I. , Duvnjak Dunja , Matijasevic Danka , Avramovic Aleksandra , Niksic M.
Published: October 2012

The activity of organic selenium against pathogenic molds and its use as a
potential selenium source in the production of enriched mushrooms were
examined. The effect of commercial selenized yeast on mycelia growth was
examined using a method with mycelia disks and a well diffusion method. For
mushroom enrichment, different concentrations of selenium were added to a
growth substrate. The results presented in this paper suggest that the most
suitable concentration of selenized yeast that inhibits the growth of the
mycopathogenic molds is 70-100 mg/kg of selenium. With the addition of this
concentration to the substrate, mushroom fruit bodies will uptake a high
level of selenium, about 100 ?g/g for Pleurotus spp., and 200 ?g/g for
Agaricus bisporus in dry weight of the mushroom. Thereby a double effect in
the cultivation of mushrooms is achieved.
The role of Omi/HtrA2 protease in neonatal postasphyxial serum-induced apoptosis in human kidney proximal tubule cells
Authors: Zhang Yong , Dong Wen-Bin , Li Qing-Ping , Deng Chun-Liang , Xiong Tao , Lei Xiao-Ping , Guo Lin
Published: October 2012

Omi/HtrA2, a proapoptotic mitochondrial serine protease, is involved in both
caspase-dependent and caspaseindependent apoptosis. A growing body of
evidence indicates that Omi/HtrA2 plays an important role in the pathogenesis
of a variety of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injuries. However, the role of
Omi/HtrA2 in the renal injuries that occur in neonates with asphyxia remains
unknown. The present study was designed to investigate whether Omi/HtrA2
plays an important role in the types of renal injuries that are induced by
neonatal postasphyxial serum. Human renal proximal tubular cell line (HK-2)
cells were used as targets. A 20% serum taken from neonates one day after
asphyxia was applied to the target cells as an attacking factor. We initially
included control and postasphyxial-serum-attacked groups and later included a
ucf-101 group in the study. In the postasphyxial-serum-treated group,
cytosolic Omi/HtrA2 and caspase-3 expression in the HK-2 cells was
significantly higher than in the control group. Moreover, the concentration
of cytosolic caspase-3 was found to be markedly decreased in HK-2 cells in
the ucf-101 group. Our results suggest both that postasphyxial serum has a
potent apoptosis-inducing effect on HK-2 cells and that this effect can be
partially blocked by ucf-101. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the
first time that postasphyxial serum from neonates results in Omi/HtrA2
translocation from the mitochondria to the cytosol, where it promotes HK-2
cell apoptosis via a protease activity-dependent, caspasemediated pathway.
On two new cave pseudoscorpions, Chthonius (Chthonius) pagus n.sp. (Chthoniidae) and Roncus navalia n.sp. (Neobisiidae), from the island of Pag, Croatia
Authors: Curcic B.P.M. , Radja T. , Dimitrijevic R.N.
Published: October 2012

An analysis of the pseudoscorpion material from Croatia has supported the
elevation of two taxa to full species rank: Chthonius (Chthonius) pagus n.
sp. and Roncus navalia n. sp., both from Dalmatia; Croatia. Most diagnostic
characters of the analyzed species are thoroughly described or figured. Some
taxonomic interrelationships and features of geographic distribution have
also been briefly discussed. Both studied taxa, which currently inhabit a
cave on the Island of Pag in Dalmatia (Croatia), are probably endemics and
relics of the Tertiary period.
Diversity of vascular hydrophytes in the Zasavica river (Serbia): Changes after thirteen years
Authors: Vukov Dragana , Igic Ruzica , Rucando M. , Radulovic Snezana
Published: October 2012

Zasavica is a 33.1 km-long, slow-flowing river on the southern edge of the
Pannonian plain. It has been a protected natural asset since 1997, and has
great value as a natural aquatic habitat. In the period between 1998 and
2010, intensive studies of the aquatic vegetation were carried out. The
comparisons of results gained at the beginning of that period with those from
the end, show significant differences in species composition, spatial
distribution, and diversity analyzed through species richness, Shannon?s
diversity index, and evenness.
Prediction of porcine interferon α antiviral activity in fermentation by Pichia pastoris based on multivariable regression and artificial neural network
Authors: Ding Jian , Wang Huihui , Dai Keke , Zi Yuhua , Shi Zhongping
Published: October 2012

One of the most important methods to produce porcine interferon ? is
microbial fermentation. In the present study, recombinant Pichia pastoriswas
used. Broth?s antiviral activity is the key index of the expression level of
porcine interferon ?. Measurement of antiviral activity is a time-consuming
and difficult task, which makes the research and production work inconvenient
and uncertain. To solve this problem, multivariable regression and artificial
neural network were applied to predict the antiviral activity based on five
on-line variables (induction time, temperature, dissolve doxygen, O2uptake
rate and CO2 evolution rate) and two off-line variables (methanol consumption
rate and total protein concentration).Parameters of the multivariable
quadratic polynomial regression equation were estimate dusing least square
methods. Optimization of artificial neural network(ANN)was achieved by
back-propagation and genetic algorithm. Verified by test set, the
ANN optimized by genetic algorithm had the best predictive performance and
generalization. The sensitivity analysis showed that CO2evolution rate,
O2 uptake rate and methanol consumption rate were the most relevant factors
for model?s output, except for the antiviral activity?s own previous value.
Comparison of two implant-supported molar distalization systems
Authors: Sar Cagla , Kaya Burcak , Ozsoy Omur , Özcirpici Ayca Arman
Published: October 2012

Objective:

To examine skeletal, dental, and soft tissue effects of the Miniscrew Implant Supported Distalization System (MISDS) and the Bone-Anchored Pendulum Appliance (BAPA).

Materials and Methods:

Among 28 patients displaying Angle Class II malocclusion, 14 patients with a mean age of 14.8 ± 3.6 years treated with MISDS were included in the first group, and 14 patients with a mean age of 14.5 ± 1.5 years treated with BAPA were included in the second group. The pretreatment and posttreatment lateral cephalograms were analyzed. Statistical evaluation was carried out using the paired Shapiro-Wilk test, the paired-sample t-test, and the unpaired t-test.

Results:

Upper posterior teeth were distalized successfully in both groups. Nearly bodily distalization was seen in the MISDS group, whereas significant distal tipping of the upper first molars was observed in the BAPA group (P < .001). There were no statistically significant changes in the sagittal position of the maxilla and mandible and in the position of the upper incisors as a result of treatment in either group.

Conclusions:

Both methods provided absolute anchorage for distalization of posterior teeth; however, almost translatory distal movement was encountered in the MISDS group, and substantial distal tipping of the maxillary molars accompanied distalization in the BAPA group.
Evaluation of anesthetic, analgesic, and cardiorespiratory effects in dogs after intramuscular administration of dexmedetomidine–butorphanol–tiletamine-zolazepam or dexmedetomidine-tramadol-ketamine drug combinations
Authors: Krimins Rebecca A. , Ko Jeff C. , Weil Ann B. , Payton Mark E.
Published: October 2012

Objective—To compare anesthetic, analgesic, and cardiorespiratory effects in dogs after IM administration of dexmedetomidine (7.5 μg/kg)–butorphanol (0.15 mg/kg)–tiletamine-zolazepam (3.0 mg/kg; DBTZ) or dexmedetomidine (15.0 μg/kg)-tramadol (3.0 mg/kg)-ketamine (3.0 mg/kg; DTrK) combinations.

Animals—6 healthy adult mixed-breed dogs.

Procedures—Each dog received DBTZ and DTrK in a randomized, crossover-design study with a 5-day interval between treatments. Cardiorespiratory variables and duration and quality of sedation-anesthesia (assessed via auditory stimulation and sedation-anesthesia scoring) and analgesia (assessed via algometry and electrical nerve stimulation) were evaluated at predetermined intervals.

Results—DBTZ or DTrK induced general anesthesia sufficient for endotracheal intubation ≤ 7 minutes after injection. Anesthetic quality and time from drug administration to standing recovery (131.5 vs 109.5 minutes after injection of DBTZ and DTrK, respectively) were similar between treatments. Duration of analgesia was significantly longer with DBTZ treatment, compared with DTrK treatment. Analgesic effects were significantly greater with DBTZ treatment than with DTrK treatment at several time points. Transient hypertension (mean arterial blood pressure > 135 mm Hg), bradycardia (heart rate < 60 beats/min), and hypoxemia (oxygen saturation < 90% via pulse oximetry) were detected during both treatments. Tidal volume decreased significantly from baseline with both treatments and was significantly lower after DBTZ administration, compared with DTrK, at several time points.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—DBTZ or DTrK rapidly induced short-term anesthesia and analgesia in healthy dogs. Further research is needed to assess efficacy of these drug combinations for surgical anesthesia. Supplemental 100% oxygen should be provided when DBTZ or DTrK are used.
Effects of anesthetic drugs on canine splenic volume determined via computed tomography
Authors: Baldo Caroline F. , Garcia-Pereira Fernando L. , Nelson Nathan C. , Hauptman Joe G. , Shih Andre C.
Published: October 2012

Objective—To evaluate effects of commonly used anesthetics administered as single bolus injections on splenic volume.

Animals—10 adult Beagles.

Procedures—A randomized crossover study was conducted. Computed tomography was performed on dogs to determine baseline splenic volume and changes after IV injection of assigned drug treatments. Dogs were allowed to acclimate for 10 minutes in a plastic crate before acquisition of abdominal CT images. Treatments were administered at 7-day intervals and consisted of IV administration of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (5 mL), acepromazine maleate (0.03 mg/kg), hydromorphone (0.1 mg/kg), and dexmedetomidine (0.005 mg/kg) to all 10 dogs; thiopental (8 mg/kg) to 5 of the dogs; and propofol (5 mg/kg) to the other 5 dogs. Splenic volume was calculated from the CT images with image processing software. A repeated-measures ANOVA was performed, followed by a Bonferroni post hoc test.

Results—No significant difference in splenic volume was detected between the acepromazine, propofol, and thiopental treatments, but splenic volume was greater with these drugs than with saline solution, hydromorphone, and dexmedetomidine. Splenic volume was less with hydromorphone, compared with dexmedetomidine, but splenic volume with hydromorphone and dexmedetomidine did not differ significantly from that with saline solution.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of acepromazine, thiopental, and propofol resulted in splenomegaly. Dexmedetomidine did not alter splenic volume. Hydromorphone slightly decreased splenic volume. Propofol should not be used when splenomegaly is not desirable, whereas hydromorphone and dexmedetomidine may be used when it is best to avoid splenic enlargement.
Effects of meloxicam on hematologic and plasma biochemical analysis variables and results of histologic examination of tissue specimens of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Sinclair Kristin M. , Church Molly E. , Farver Thomas B. , Lowenstine Linda J. , Owens Sean D. , Paul-Murphy Joanne
Published: October 2012

Objective—To determine the effects of meloxicam on values of hematologic and plasma biochemical analysis variables and results of histologic examination of tissue specimens of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica).

Animals—30 adult Japanese quail.

Procedures—15 quail underwent laparoscopic examination of the left kidneys, and 15 quail underwent laparoscopic examination and biopsy of the left kidneys. Quail in each of these groups received meloxicam (2.0 mg/kg, IM, q 12 h; n = 10) or a saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (0.05 mL, IM, q 12 h; control birds; 5) for 14 days. A CBC and plasma biochemical analyses were performed at the start of the study and within 3 hours after the last treatment. Birds were euthanized and necropsies were performed.

Results—No adverse effects of treatments were observed, and no significant changes in values of hematologic variables were detected during the study. Plasma uric acid concentrations and creatine kinase or aspartate aminotransferase activities were significantly different before versus after treatment for some groups of birds. Gross lesions identified during necropsy included lesions at renal biopsy sites and adjacent air sacs (attributed to the biopsy procedure) and pectoral muscle hemorrhage and discoloration (at sites of injection). Substantial histopathologic lesions were limited to pectoral muscle necrosis, and severity was greater for meloxicam-treated versus control birds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Meloxicam (2.0 mg/kg, IM, q 12 h for 14 days) did not cause substantial alterations in function of or histopathologic findings for the kidneys of Japanese quail but did induce muscle necrosis; repeated IM administration of meloxicam to quail may be contraindicated.
Assessment of methods of evaluating sarcopenia in old dogs
Authors: Hutchinson Dana , Sutherland-Smith James , Watson Adrian L. , Freeman Lisa M.
Published: October 2012

Objective—To evaluate clinically applicable methods of assessing lean body mass in dogs and compare muscle mass and inflammatory markers in healthy young and old dogs.

Animals—9 healthy young (1 to 5 years old) and 10 old (> 8 years old) Labrador Retrievers with a body condition score of 5 to 6 of 9.

Procedures—Radiography of the thoracolumbar region was performed for measurement of epaxial muscle height at the level of T13–L1. Computed tomographic images were obtained for the measurement of the epaxial and temporal muscles. Ultrasonography also was performed for regional muscle measurements at these same sites and the quadriceps muscle. Serum C-reactive protein, insulin-like growth factor-1, and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations also were measured, and dogs' activity for 14 days was assessed with an activity monitor.

Results—Mean epaxial muscle area measured by ultrasonography was significantly lower in the old group, compared with the young group, whereas epaxial muscle area measured by CT was only significantly lower in the old group after normalization for vertebral height. Neither temporal and quadriceps muscle measurements nor serum C-reactive protein or insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations were significantly different between age groups. Tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations were undetectable in all dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—This study documented reduced epaxial muscle area in healthy old Labrador Retrievers, consistent with the syndrome of sarcopenia. Ultrasonography and CT were feasible methods of measuring epaxial muscle area, but much additional research is required to assess this method. A better understanding of underlying mechanisms of sarcopenia as well as methods for slowing progression is needed.
Immunohistochemical characterization of feline oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yoshikawa Hiroto , Ehrhart E. J. , Charles Joseph B. , Thamm Douglas H. , LaRue Susan M.
Published: October 2012

Objective—To evaluate the expression of Ki67 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mitotic index (MI), and microvascular density (MVD) in feline oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) via immunohistochemical staining on archival tumor tissues and to seek a correlation between these markers and clinical variables.

Sample—22 archived tumor samples of feline oral SCC.

Procedures—Immunohistochemical staining for Ki67, MVD, and EGFR was performed and scored. Patient survival information was obtained from the medical records. These molecular markers as well as MI were correlated with tumor locations and patient survival time.

Results—The 22 tumors had wide variation in Ki67 expression, MI, MVD, and EGFR expression. Tongue SCC had higher MVD than did mandibular and maxillary SCC. Tumor expression of EGFR was inversely proportional to survival time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that EGFR expression might be a valuable prognostic factor for treatment outcome in feline oral SCC. It also identified higher angiogenesis in tongue SCC, compared with mandibular and maxillary SCC, which may account for a different clinical outcome. Further prospective characterization of feline oral SCC may provide a better understanding of the underlying molecular factors that drive its behavior and offer the possibility for future patient-specific treatment plans.
Evaluation of inflammatory and hemostatic surgical stress responses in male cats after castration under general anesthesia with or without local anesthesia
Authors: Moldal Elena R. , Kirpensteijn Jolle , Kristensen Annemarie T. , Haga H. Andreas , Nødtvedt Ane , Eriksen Thomas
Published: October 2012

Objective—To characterize acute inflammatory and hemostatic surgical stress responses following castration in cats and to evaluate whether the addition of local anesthesia to the anesthetic protocol attenuates these responses.

Animals—39 male cats.

Procedures—Cats undergoing castration were randomly assigned to 2 groups: both groups underwent surgery with general anesthesia, and 1 group additionally received a local anesthetic (lidocaine [2.0 mg/kg in total, divided intratesticularly and SC]) prior to incision. Blood samples were collected after anesthetic induction (baseline) and 1, 5, and 24 hours later. Thromboelastography and coagulation variables (activated partial thromboplastin time [aPTT] and prothrombin time [PT]) were analyzed; fibrinolysis was assessed with plasma D-dimer concentrations. The acute-phase response was evaluated via measurement of plasma fibrinogen and serum amyloid A (last time point, 28 hours) concentrations. Hematologic variables were analyzed at baseline and 1, 5, and 24 hours later.

Results—Evidence of hemostatic and inflammatory activation after surgery was detected in both groups. Maximum amplitude and G (global clot strength) were significantly increased at 24 hours, and significant, but not clinically relevant, decreases were detected in aPTT at 5 and 24 hours and in PT at 24 hours, compared with baseline values. Serum amyloid A concentrations were significantly higher at 24 and 28 hours than at baseline, and plasma fibrinogen concentration was significantly increased at 24 hours; WBC and RBC counts and Hct were significantly increased at multiple time points. No differences between groups were detected for any variables.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Castration appeared to induce hypercoagulability and an acute-phase inflammatory response in cats. Local anesthesia with lidocaine did not attenuate this response.
A rare case of coexistent intralobar and extralobar pulmonary sequestration
Authors: Arsenijevic Milos , Mitrovic Slobodanka , Milosavljevic Milos , Petrovic Marina , Djurdjevic Predrag , Milisavljevic Slobodan
Published: October 2012

In the pathology of respiratory tract, sequestration presents as a non-functional lung tissue with no communication with tracheobronchial tree. It represents a rare congenital bronchopulmonary and vascular malformation, which occurs at a frequency of 0.1 to 6%. Intralobar and extralobar sequestrations are extremely rare congenital anomalies, especially if they occur at the same time in a patient. Proper diagnosis and appropriate surgical therapy, in the absence of associated anomalies, provide an excellent prognosis. In this paper, we are describing the simultaneous presence of intralobar sequestration (ILS) in the lower lobe of the left lung and extralobar sequestration (ELS) which is positioned on the aortic arch, in a 53 years old man. Two years post surgery, there is no recurrence or any patomorphological and functional disorders in the respiratory tract.
DNR declaration — emergency medical system nurses’ opinions
Authors: Goniewicz Mariusz , Rzońca Patryk , Klukow Jadwiga , Pawlikowski Jakub , Sak Jarosław , Goniewicz Krzysztof
Published: October 2012

Advance directive and other declarations of will made by patients in a case of mental illness still raise ethical and legal issues. In Poland there is no legal regulation, neither research about code of conduct in situation of do not attempt resuscitation. There are also not enough studies regarding Healthcare workers’ opinion about DNAR declaration (Do Not Attempt Resuscitation). The study is aimed at finding out emergency medical system nurses opinion on the subject of enforcing do not attempt resuscitation in situation of circulatory and respiratory arrest. Methods: The research was conducted by means of the diagnostic survey method applying a self — constructed questionnaire. The study was carried out among 82 (100%) nurses, from September to December 2011. Obtained information were analyzed statistically, Chi-square of independence with assumed p ≤ 0.05. level of significance was used for statistical analysis. Results: The study of the respondents’ opinion shows that 67% Healthcare employees think that DNAR declaration should be obligatory in Poland. Contrary opinion has 7.3% of respondents. In their opinion the decision to refrain from resuscitating should be made by attending physician − 46.3% and medical board − 29.3%. Information enclosed within DNAR declaration, in most of respondents’ opinion − 59.5%, should be only passed on in written form. Conclusions: Majority of respondents agree that patients have a right to refrain from resuscitating as a self − determination act. Respondents concur the introduction of DNAR declaration in Polish Healthcare system. In respondents’ opinion that decision should be required in written form and an attending physician should decide about its implementation, what violates the existing rule. The execution of living will declaration raises ethical issues. Additionally, it also appears as public/social problem. The last stage of incurable disease is given as justifiable circumstances of DNAR.
Mesenchymal stem cells promote a primitive phenotype CD34+c-kit+ in human cord blood-derived hematopoietic stem cells during ex vivo expansion
Authors: Rodríguez-Pardo Viviana , Vernot Jean
Published: October 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of bone marrow-mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) and exogenously added cytokines on the proliferation, primitive cell subpopulation maintenance (including the c-kit+ marker) and clonogenic capacity of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). BM-MSC were collected from volunteer donors, isolated and characterized. Umbilical cord blood (UCB) samples were collected from healthy full-term deliveries. UCB-CD34+ cells were cultured in the presence or absence of BM-MSC and/or cytokines for 3 and 7 days. CD34+ cell proliferation was evaluated using the CSFE method and cell phenotype was determined by CD34, c-kit, CD33, CD38, HLA-DR, cyCD22 and cyCD3 detection. Cell clonogenic ability was also assessed. Exogenously added SCF, TPO and FLT3L increasedCD34+ cell proliferation in the presence or absence of BM-MSC, but with concomitant cell differentiation. Without any added cytokines, BM-MSC are able to increase the percentage of primitive progenitors as evaluated by c-kit expression and CFU-GEMM increase. Interestingly, this latter effect was dependent on both cell-cell interactions and secreted factors. A 7-day co-culture period will be optimal for obtaining an increased primitive HSC level. Including c-kit as a marker for primitive phenotype evaluation has shown the relevance of BM-MSC and their secreted factors on UCB-HSC stemness function. This effect could be dissociated from that of the addition of exogenous cytokines, which induced cellular differentiation instead.
A case study of a novel ducted composite material marine current turbine
Authors: Wang Jifeng , Gower Blake , Müller Norbert
Published: October 2012

Advanced composite materials are widely used as marine current turbines due to their high strength-to-weight ratios and excellent resistance to corrosion. A novel manufacturing approach similar to filament winding has been developed and is able to produce the Composite Material Marine Current Turbines (CMMCTs) that have significant advantages over traditional designs. This paper presents numerical results investigating the performance of ducted CMMCTs. The numerical approach was performed using CFD in a free stream of water with various hydrodynamic flow conditions. The investigation results provide an insight into the hydrodynamic design and operation of CMMCTs.
Variables Associated With Level of Disability in Working Individuals With Nonacute Low Back Pain: A Cross-sectional Investigation
Authors: Davis D. Scott , Mancinelli Corrie A. , Petronis John J. , Bensenhaver Calvin , McClintic Travis , Nelson George
Published: October 2012

Study Design

Single-site, exploratory, cross-sectional design.

Objective

To identify variables associated with disability related to low back pain (LBP), as measured by the modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (mOSW), in a sample of working adults with nonacute LBP.

Background

Compared to acute LBP, there is little information available in the literature to identify variables associated with LBP-related disability in working individuals with stage 2 and stage 3 LBP.

Methods

Data analyzed were from working individuals with nonacute LBP (n = 235). The response variable was dichotomized by mOSW score (less than 20 or 20 or greater), and the regressor variables included 27 self-report, sociodemographic, impairment-based, and kinematic measures used to assess individuals with LBP. Logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with mOSW.

Results

One hundred eleven subjects had a mOSW score of 20 or greater, and 124 subjects had a mOSW score of less than 20. Logistic regression analysis identified 4 variables associated with LBP-related disability (mOSW): duration of LBP (P = .006), numeric pain rating (P<.0001), Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire physical activity subscale (P = .0007), and limits of stability movement velocity in the forward direction (P = .02). The best model had an R2(u) of 0.25.

Conclusion

The odds of LBP-related disability (mOSW) in this sample of nonacute working individuals were found to increase with longer duration of LBP, higher numeric pain rating scores, higher Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire physical activity subscale scores, and slower limits of stability movement velocity in the forward direction. The identification of limits of stability movement velocity is a novel finding that may support a link between sensorimotor balance deficits and disability in working individuals with nonacute LBP. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(2):97–104. Epub 22 October 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4382
Spatio‐temporal relationship between calf body mass and population productivity in Fennoscandian moose Alces alces
Authors: Tiilikainen Raisa , Solberg Erling Johan , Nygrén Tuire , Pusenius Jyrki
Published: October 2012

Body mass is an important life history trait related to survival, mating success and fecundity in ungulates. Accordingly, we may expect that both body mass and reproductive measurements at the population level can be used as valid indices of population condition. However, several factors may modify the relationship between body mass and fecundity because of trade‐offs between maturity and early body growth, and varying mortality patterns and sex/age structure among populations. To evaluate the use of such indices for population monitoring and examine the current variation in moose Alces alces population condition in Fennoscandia, we studied the spatio‐temporal relationship between calving rate, twinning rate and average autumn calf body mass of moose in Norway and Finland. Calving rate and twinning rate were based on moose observations by hunters while body mass was the average carcass mass of harvested calves. We found a positive relationship between indices both within and among populations. Calves were on average heavier and the observed recruitment rates higher in Finland than in Norway, which is consistent with the higher moose density and presumably lower primary productivity (higher altitude) of moose ranges in Norway. We also found higher observed recruitment rates in populations and years with more even adult sex ratios (females per male) and low relative harvest rates of calves. This suggests that variation in recruitment rate is not only a matter of nutritional condition, but is also affected by varying hunting regulations and harvest structure. For monitoring purposes, we believe that twinning rate is best suited for ranking populations according to nutritional status as this index is closely related to fitness and is relatively insensitive to variation in perinatal and harvest mortality. However, variation in calf body mass may better reflect temporal variation in living conditions. This is because early body growth is sensitive to variation in food availability (and quality) and because body mass may respond more instantaneously than recruitment indices to adverse conditions. Accordingly, we found both calving rate and twinning rate to be best related to variation in mean calf body mass in the previous year.
Detecting river otter Lontra canadensis latrines near bridges: does habitat and season influence survey success?
Authors: Just Emily H. , Stevens Sadie S. , Spinola Romeo M. , Serfass Thomas L.
Published: October 2012

During 2006, we conducted riparian surveys to detect river otter Lontra canadensis latrines at 15 bridge‐suites along riverine habitats in southwestern Pennsylvania and western Maryland, USA. We defined a bridge‐suite as consisting of survey locations at the bridge, a random site and a site chosen by application of a Pattern Recognition Model developed for predicting the location of latrines, with each survey location consisting of both shorelines along a 200‐m section of the river. We used occupancy modeling to assess the influence of the continuous covariate SiteScore (a probability derived from Pattern Recognition modeling, with higher scores predicting habitat conditions where river otters are most likely to establish latrines). We also included two categorical covariates with the modeling, each with three factor levels: SiteType (consisting of the three survey locations within a bridge‐suite: Bridge, Random and Select, chosen based on having the highest SiteScore among non‐Bridge sites within a bridge‐suite) and Season (spring, summer and fall) on the probability of detecting a positive site (i.e. a site with ≥ 1 latrine). The selected model suggested that probabilities of detection were positively related to SiteScore (i.e. habitat quality), higher in spring and fall than in summer, and higher at Selected and Random sites than at Bridge sites. In our study areas, efficacy of surveys to detect river otter signs (i.e. scats at latrines) would be considerably enhanced by considering habitat quality when selecting survey locations and by conducting surveys during spring or fall.
Impacts of rural development on Yellowstone wildlife: linking grizzly bear Ursus arctos demographics with projected residential growth
Authors: Schwartz Charles C. , Gude Patricia H. , Landenburger Lisa , Haroldson Mark A. , Podruzny Shannon
Published: October 2012

Exurban development is consuming wildlife habitat within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem with potential consequences to the long‐term conservation of grizzly bears Ursus arctos. We assessed the impacts of alternative future land‐use scenarios by linking an existing regression‐based simulation model predicting rural development with a spatially explicit model that predicted bear survival. Using demographic criteria that predict population trajectory, we portioned habitats into either source or sink, and projected the loss of source habitat associated with four different build out (new home construction) scenarios through 2020. Under boom growth, we predicted that 12 km2 of source habitat were converted to sink habitat within the Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone (RZ), 189 km2 were converted within the current distribution of grizzly bears outside of the RZ, and 289 km2 were converted in the area outside the RZ identified as suitable grizzly bear habitat. Our findings showed that extremely low densities of residential development created sink habitats. We suggest that tools, such as those outlined in this article, in addition to zoning and subdivision regulation may prove more practical, and the most effective means of retaining large areas of undeveloped land and conserving grizzly bear source habitat will likely require a landscape‐scale approach. We recommend a focus on land conservation efforts that retain open space (easements, purchases and trades) coupled with the implementation of ‘bear community programmes’ on an ecosystem wide basis in an effort to minimize human‐bear conflicts, minimize management‐related bear mortalities associated with preventable conflicts and to safeguard human communities. Our approach has application to other species and areas, and it has illustrated how spatially explicit demographic models can be combined with models predicting land‐use change to help focus conservation priorities.
Naji Al-Ali, Edward Said and Civil Liberation Theology in Palestine: Contextual, Indigenous and Decolonising Methodologies
Authors: Masalha Nur
Published: October 2012

This article coins a new expression: ‘civil liberation theology’ in Palestine. Astonishingly while feminist, black and post-colonial theologies of liberation have flourished in the West, there is little discussion of indigenous and decolonising perspectives or civil and secular-humanist reflections on liberation theology. Inspired by the works of Palestinian visual artist Naji Al-Ali and public intellectual Edward Said, the article brings into the debate on theologies of liberation in Palestine-Israel a neglected subject: an egalitarian, none-denominational theology rooted in decolonising methodologies. This civil liberation theology attempts to address the questions: how can exile be overcome? How can history be transcended and decolonised? And how can indigenous memory be reclaimed? The article brings into focus indigenous, humanist and non-religious ways of thinking on which Edward Said and Naji Al-Ali (in his famous figurative character Handhala) insisted. This civil liberation theology also draws on contrapuntal methodologies and critical indigenous and non-denominational theologies in ‘historic Palestine’ – progressive, creative and liberative theologies which occupy multiple sites of liberation and can be made relevant not only to people of faith (Muslims, Jews, Christians) but also to secular-humanists.