bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deconstructing the molecular genetics behind the PINK1/Parkin axis in Parkinson’s disease using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism
Authors: Ganesan Suchita , Parvathi Venkatachalam Deepa
Published: November 2021

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder marked by the death of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons in response to the compounding effects of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and protein aggregation. Transgenic Drosophila models have been used extensively to decipher the underlying genetic interactions that exacerbate neural health in PD. Autosomal recessive forms of the disease have been linked to mutations in the serine/threonine kinase PINK1(PTEN-Induced Putative Kinase 1) and E3 ligase Parkin, which function in an axis that is conserved in flies. This review aims to probe the current understanding of PD pathogenesis via the PINK1/Parkin axis while underscoring the importance of several molecular and pharmacologic rescues brought to light through studies in Drosophila.

Main body

Mutations in PINK1 and Parkin have been shown to affect the axonal transport of mitochondria within dopaminergic neurons and perturb the balance between mitochondrial fusion/fission resulting in abnormal mitochondrial morphology. As per studies in flies, ectopic expression of Fwd kinase and Atg-1 to promote fission and mitophagy while suppressing fusion via MUL1 E3 ligase may aid to halt mitochondrial aggregation and prolong the survival of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, upregulation of Hsp70/Hsp90 chaperone systems (Trap1, CHIP) to target misfolded mitochondrial respiratory complexes may help to preserve their bioenergetic capacity. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species as a consequence of respiratory complex dysfunction or antioxidant enzyme deficiency further escalates neural death by inducing apoptosis, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. Fly studies have reported the induction of canonical Wnt signalling to enhance the activity of transcriptional co-activators (PGC1α, FOXO) which induce the expression of antioxidant enzymes. Enhancing the clearance of free radicals via uncoupling proteins (UCP4) has also been reported to ameliorate oxidative stress-induced cell death in PINK1/Parkin mutants.

Conclusion

While these novel mechanisms require validation through mammalian studies, they offer several explanations for the factors propagating dopaminergic death as well as promising insights into the therapeutic importance of transgenic fly models in PD.
FDG avid cerebellar atypical meningioma masquerading as solitary brain metastases in a recently diagnosed breast malignancy: a toss between MR and CT
Authors: Palaniswamy Shanmuga Sundaram , Subramanyam Padma
Published: November 2021

Background

SUV Max is a glycolytic index obtained from PET imaging, relates to tumour cell proliferation. FDG uptake (i.e. SUV max) is found to be high in aggressive tumours and is used to identify malignant from benign pathologies. Meningiomas are intracranial tumours which display varying grades of FDG avidity based on its biological aggressiveness. Benign grade I meningiomas are FDG non-avid, while the rest of the typical and atypical meningiomas show varying degrees of FDG avidity. Uptake of FDG can be high in certain infectious and inflammatory brain etiologies and pose a diagnostic challenge in differentiating benign brain lesions from neoplasms. MRI is the preferred modality for accurately identifying meningiomas, providing superior contrast differentiation and its ability to differentiate extra-axial from intra-axial brain lesions. CT is said to be superior in specific types of meningioma where there is calcification and adjacent changes in calvarium. Although typical meningiomas have characteristic MRI features, care must be taken to avoid misleading diagnosis between brain tumours and atypical meningiomas.

Case presentation

We are presenting a recently diagnosed case of invasive breast carcinoma (Ca) referred for staging by PET/MR imaging. Based on atypical DWI and ADC map findings, MRI falsely reported an atypical meningioma as a brain metastasis. Abnormal intense FDG uptake was noted in a well-defined homogeneously enhancing mass lesion in posterior fossa in left paramedian aspect and broad base to left transverse sinus protruding into left cerebellar hemisphere. Atypical meningioma Grade III, i.e. papillary meningioma was later histologically proven.

Conclusions

We wish to highlight the inconsistency of DWI and ADC map MR findings in papillary meningioma masquerading as solitary brain metastases in a Ca breast patient on 18F FDG PET/MR imaging. From an imaging standpoint, it is important to recognize the variable and pleomorphic features exhibited by meningiomas in MR based on atypical location, histological subtypes, and biologic behaviours. Further FDG PET was incremental in displaying a high SUV max indicating biologic aggressiveness of lesion and correlating with the CT diagnosis of papillary meningioma.
Mental health legislation in Luxembourg, a small country in Western Europe
Authors: Malmendier-Muehlschlegel Anja , Power Niamh Catherine
Published: November 2021

The article provides a brief overview of the legislation governing involuntary admissions to psychiatric hospitals in Luxembourg. The legislation was completely overhauled in 2009 and several human rights principles are enshrined into it. Emphasis is placed on voluntary, community-based treatment, and where compulsory treatment is required, it uses the least restrictive treatment option. Mentally ill offenders are dealt with through separate specialist legislation. Young people under the age of 18 are often detained using family law.
Engineering the sensitivity of macroscopic physical systems to variations in the fine-structure constant
Authors: Zjawin B. , Bober M. , Ciuryło R. , Lisak D. , Zawada M. , Wcisło P.
Published: November 2021

Experiments aimed at searching for variations in the fine-structure constant α are based on spectroscopy of transitions in microscopic bound systems, such as atoms and ions, or resonances in optical cavities. The sensitivities of these systems to variations in α are typically on the order of unity and are fixed for a given system. For heavy atoms, highly charged ions and nuclear transitions, the sensitivity can be increased by benefiting from the relativistic effects and favorable arrangement of quantum states. This article proposes a new method for controlling the sensitivity factor of macroscopic physical systems. Specific concepts of optical cavities with tunable sensitivity to α are described. These systems show qualitatively different properties from those of previous studies of the sensitivity of macroscopic systems to variations in α, in which the sensitivity was found to be fixed and fundamentally limited to an order of unity. Although possible experimental constraints attainable with the specific optical cavity arrangements proposed in this article do not yet exceed the present best constraints on α variations, this work paves the way for developing new approaches to searching for variations in the fundamental constants of physics.
Re-irradiation for intra-thoracic tumours and extra-thoracic breast cancer: dose accumulation, evaluation of efficacy and toxicity based on a literature review
Authors: Gabrys Dorota , Kulik Roland , Namysł-Kaletka Agnieszka
Published: November 2021

The improvement seen in the diagnostic procedures and treatment of thoracic tumours means that patients have an increased chance of longer overall survival. Nevertheless, we can still find those who have had a recurrence or developed a secondary cancer in the previously treated area. These patients require retreatment including re-irradiation. We have reviewed the published data on thoracic re-irradiation, which shows that some specific healthy tissues can tolerate a significant dose of irradiation and these patients benefit from aggressive treatment; however, there is a risk of damage to normal tissue under these circumstances. We analysed the literature data on re-irradiation in the areas of vertebral bodies, spinal cord, breast, lung and oesophagus. We evaluated the doses of primary and secondary radiotherapy, the treatment techniques, as well as the local control and median or overall survival in patients treated with re-radiation. The longest OS is reported in the case of re-irradiation after second breast-conserving therapy where the 5-year OS range is 81 to 100% and is shorter in patients with loco-reginal re-irradiation where the 5-y OS range is 18 to 60%. 2-year OS in patients re-irradiated for lung cancer and oesophagus cancer range from 13 to 74% and 18 to 42%, respectively. Majority grade ≥3 toxicity after second breast-conserving therapy was fibrosis up to 35%. For loco-regional breast cancer recurrences, early toxicity occurred in up to 33% of patients resulting in mostly desquamation, while late toxicity was recorded in up to 23% of patients and were mostly ulcerations. Early grade ≥3 lung toxicity developed in up to 39% of patients and up to 20% of Grade 5 hemoptysis. The most frequently observed early toxicity grade ≥3 in oesophageal cancer was oesophagitis recorded in up to 57% of patients, followed by hematological complications which was recorded in up to 50% of patients. The most common late complications included dysphagia, recorded in up to 16.7% of patients. We have shown that thoracic re-irradiation is feasible and effective in achieving local control in some patients. Re-irradiation should be performed with maximum accuracy and care using the best available treatment methods with a highly conformal, image-guided approach. Due to tremendous technological progress in the field of radiotherapy, we can deliver radiation precisely, shorten the overall treatment time and potentially reduce treatment-related toxicities.
Evaluating suspected small bowel obstruction with the water-soluble contrast challenge
Authors: Lawrence Edward M. , Pickhardt Perry J.
Published: November 2021

With optimized technique, the water-soluble contrast challenge is effective at triaging patients for operative vs non-operative management of suspected small bowel obstruction. Standardized study structure and interpretation guidelines aid in clinical efficacy and ease of use. Many tips and tricks exist regarding technique and interpretation, and their understanding may assist the interpreting radiologist. In the future, a CT-based water-soluble contrast challenge, utilizing oral contrast given as part of the initial CT examination, might allow for a more streamlined algorithm and provide more rapid results.
The perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical students’ future careers
Authors: Mahjoub Heba , Vasavda Chirag , Bertram Amanda , Davison Ashwini , Sozio Stephen
Published: November 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted medical education on multiple levels, and medical students have been forced to adjust to distance learning, altered clinical opportunities, and standardized testing inconsistencies. We sought to identify the effects of these dramatic deviations on medical students’ career plans.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of medical students between July 13, 2020, and September 9, 2020 in order to assess the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ career decisions. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables.

Results: Of the 585 eligible medical students, we had a final sample of 76 responses (n=76) (13% response rate). Students felt neutral regarding having more time to explore research projects (Mean ± SD; 3.06 ± 1.18) and hobbies (3.43 ± 1.28). Most survey respondents somewhat disagreed that they considered quitting medical school during the pandemic (1.55 ± 1.10). Students somewhat agreed that they view the field of medicine more positively since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (3.60 ± 1.09). Respondents somewhat agreed that they would be unable to explore other specialties and find their best fit (3.55 ± 1.32). We found that the minority (4/66, 6%) of students had considered changing their specialty. Students felt neutral in terms of their Step 1 (3.25 ± 1.05) or Step 2 (2.81 ± 1.02) score deterring them from future career opportunities.

Conclusions:  Most medical students have experienced barriers in their career pathway as a direct cause of COVID-19 restrictions on medical education, including the ability to explore different specialties to discover their best fit or find a chance to network with mentors. However, despite these obstacles, most students remain committed to medicine.
The job applicant reactions towards Patterned Behavior Description Interview (PBDI) and Mixed Situational and Patterned Behavior Description Interview (Mixed SPBDI)
Authors: Mahadi Masyitah
Published: November 2021

Background: When applying for a job, applicant reactions are defined as the amount to which the applicants of the job regard the process of selection as impartial or unbiased. The questions for the structured interview can be future-oriented (Situational Interview) or past-oriented (Patterned Behaviour Description Interview). Past research on using SI or PBDI in selection process and their effects on applicant reactions showed that applicant reactions are highest towards PBDI.

Methods: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of combining PBDI and SI (mixed SPBDI) as interview questions, and to differentiate its effect with PBDI. This study involved 46 lecturers from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). This study used (a) mixed SPBDI, and PBDI as interview questions, and (b) Applicant Reaction Questionnaires which was based on the Organizational Justice theory. The interview was conducted in a transcript form. After the participants answered the interview transcripts, they answered the applicant reactions questionnaires. The data was then analysed and presented.

Results: The results showed a significant difference between mixed SPBDI and PBDI, with the PBDI’s mean (M = 13.61; SD = 1.57) is significantly higher than the mixed SPBDI’s mean (M = 10.89; SD 1.91), t (46) = 7.22; p < 0.01. Specifically, applicants reacted more positively to PBDI interview content compared to the mixed SPBDI.

Conclusion: This research had few limitations such as the interview being conducted in the form of transcript and not verbally as in real workplace context. It is also limited to studying the reactions in terms of only perceived fairness and no other elements such as organizational effectiveness or the decision making of the applicants. Nevertheless, this study has contributed to the theoretical and research development in applicant reactions, and to the practical application for organizations in Malaysia.
Developing assessment criteria for operation control of local security health fund in the upper central area, Thailand
Authors: Boonmee Prapot , Kessomboon Pattapong , Thongjit Supattarayan
Published: November 2021

Background: The government's support for public health care in Thailand is very important and necessary. Therefore, there must be a supervisory process for budgeting to create the most equality and fairness to all people. At present, the instruments used to monitor health fund performance cannot be comprehensively assessed for effectiveness such as planning, organizing, leading and controlling. To address this gap, we created the Assessment Criteria for Operation control of Local security health Fund (ACOLF) which evaluates old assessment criteria, review literature and experience as separate constructs.

Methods: The ACOLF is a 42-item survey with 12 old assessment criteria, 26 review literature and four experience items rated on scale from 0-9. In an observational analytical study, the survey was administered to 406 general population participants working in a provincial office for local administration. Validity and reliability were evaluated by testing construct validity. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to confirm the item of old assessment criteria, review literature and experience. Reliability of the questionnaires was tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient.

Results: The ACOLF demonstrated convergent construct validity (KMO = 0.88 and Bartlett's Test; p value <0.001) and explaining 88.95% of the variance of this construct. There were seven factors involved and all  factors consisted of a total of 41 variables observed by the weight of the composition of the observed variables ranged from 0.780 to 0.972 at the significance level of 0.05. The reliability of the assessment criteria was tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, the total results was at 0.889.

Conclusions: The ACOLF is a short, cover activity, valid, and reliable instrument for assessment operation control of local security health fund. Based on research findings the tool can be used to comprehensively assess the performance of local security health fund.
The genome sequence of the sycamore, Acronicta aceris (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Crowley Liam , Holland Peter W.H. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2021

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Acronicta aceris (the sycamore; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 466 megabases in span. The complete assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, with the W and Z sex chromosome assembled.
The genome sequence of a soldier beetle, Cantharis rustica Fallén 1807
Authors: Sivell Olga , Sivell Duncan ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2021

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Cantharis rustica (a soldier beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Cantharidae). The genome sequence is 446 megabases in span. The majority (99.71%) of the assembly is scaffolded into 7 chromosomal pseudomolecules, with the X sex chromosome assembled.
Gospodarcze skutki dążeń niepodległościowych w Katalonii w latach 2010-2020
Authors: Kasper Magdalena Alicja
Published: November 2021

Katalonia traktowana jest przez kulturoznawców, naukowców i ekonomistów jako jeden z najlepiej rozwijających się regionów nie tylko Hiszpanii, ale także Europy. Dzięki bardzo dobrze rozwiniętej gospodarce wzbudza zainteresowanie inwestorów zagranicznych (niemieckich, francuskich, szwajcarskich), którzy decydują się nawiązywać kontakty biznesowe i umieszczać swój kapitał właśnie w tej części Hiszpanii, przyczyniając się tym samym do jej wzrostu gospodarczego. Ta sama świadomość ekonomiczna Katalończyków (obok świadomości historycznej i tożsamości narodowej) stanowi jedną z przyczyn niegasnących dążeń niepodległościowych. Wydarzeniami, które w ostatniej dekadzie znacząco wpłynęły nie tylko na stabilność polityczną, ale także na sytuację ekonomiczną Katalonii, były dwa „referenda” zorganizowane w roku 2014 oraz 2017. Ich korelację z wybranymi podsektorami katalońskiej gospodarki prezentują m.in. takie wskaźniki makroekonomiczne jak BIZ czy IPI, których wartości (szczególnie po roku 2017) drastycznie spadły. Decyzje Trybunału Konstytucyjnego o nielegalnym charakterze działań władz w Katalonii, wyroki sądu nakładające kary więzienia na polityków za rebelie i sprzeniewierzenie środków publicznych, a w końcu chaos informacyjny, wywołały niepewność partnerów biznesowych, doprowadzając w konsekwencji do pogorszenia się sytuacji gospodarczej w ostatnich latach w tym regionie Hiszpanii. W niniejszym artykule analizie ekonomicznej poddane zostały lata 2010-2020, w ciągu których największym negatywnym wydarzeniem było „referendum niepodległościowe” w Katalonii w roku 2017.
Better and Lesser Catalans?
Authors: Kubiaczyk Filip
Published: November 2021

The paper analyses the relationships between the teams and supporters of FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol Barcelona, in which the dispute concerning Catalanness has been and remains the foremost issue. FC Barcelona is widely considered an ambassador of Catalonia, a symbol of Catalanness and the epitome of Catalanism as embodied through football. Espanyol, its local rival, has to face allegations of being a non-Catalan club, or an outgrowth of Real Madrid in Barcelona. While Barça is the club in which one “does politics” and with which one creates Catalonia (fer Catalunya), it is emphasized that Espanyol and its supporters are not involved in politics and the Catalan national effort. A perennial feud continues between the boards and fans of both clubs; historical, identity-related and ethnic arguments are invoked to demonstrate the Catalanness of one side (FC Barcelona) and its incompleteness or even utter absence in the other (RCD Espanyol). The analysis conducted in the paper shows that FC Barcelona’s exclusive Catalanness and right to represent Catalonia is a historical and social fact, but it has been challenged recently by Espanyol through the Catalanization the club undertook in mid-1990s and a series of public campaigns to undermine the hegemony of Barça in the city and the region. Espanyol is the active side in the contest to overcome FC Barcelona’s monopoly on representing Catalonia, while Barcelona itself focuses on retaining its previous status. The study demonstrates that both clubs are in fact polysemous, which means that Espanyol has supporters who feel first and foremost Catalans and espouse Catalan independence, while avowed opponents of the same idea can be found among the supporters of the Blaugrana, although the club is primarily Spanish and not only Catalan.
Odmiana imion i nazwisk katalońskich w języku polskim
Authors: Sasor Rozalia
Published: November 2021

Tematem artykułu jest problem odmiany imion i nazwisk katalońskich w języku polskim, który do tej pory nie został nigdzie kompleksowo opracowany. Starając się zapełnić tę lukę, Autorka proponuje usystematyzowany zestaw reguł odmiany imion i nazwisk opracowany na podstawie zasad obowiązujących w języku polskim z uwzględnieniem reguł szczegółowych odnoszących się do odmiany nazw własnych w językach hiszpańskim, włoskim, francuskim i węgierskim. W zestawie przedstawiono polskie wzorce fleksyjne katalońskich imion i nazwisk żeńskich i męskich dla liczby pojedynczej oraz mnogiej.
La problemàtica de “les relacions vida-imatge, cinema-cultura i escriptura literària-escriptura cinematogràfica” en l’obra de Jaume Fuster
Authors: Wegner Magdalena
Published: November 2021

El desenvolupament de la tradició catalana de la narrativa negra i policíaca va ser interromput diverses vegades per les condicions sociopolítiques desfavorables del règim franquista. No obstant això, el final de la dictadura va permetre una incursió completa als gèneres populars i un dels escriptors més destacables d’aquest període és Jaume Fuster. Gràcies al seu projecte literari, va ser capaç d’introduir certs elements narratius derivats dels sistemes dominants per a la normalització de la llengua i cultura catalanes, referint-se al mateix temps a la tradició del gènere en altres manifestacions artístiques com el cinema. Aquest article presenta una anàlisi de Tarda, sessió contínua, 3.45 (1976) en què s’estudia tres tipus de relacions indicades pel mateix autor. En conseqüència, resulta que l’aspecte intertextual de la novel·la va facilitar el procés de la consolidació del gènere negre i policíac als Països Catalans.
Spanish Style Walking Sticks in the Collection of the National Museum in Krakow
Authors: Paś Monika
Published: November 2021

The collection of the National Museum in Krakow includes over ninety walking sticks from different parts of Europe, Asia and Africa, dated from the 18th century to the second half of the 20th century. Most are kept in the Department of Decorative Arts, Material Culture and Militaria, in the collection of which artefacts manufactured in Spain constitute a relatively small percent. Therefore, from this group it is worth presenting two walking sticks, previously unpublished, connected with the culture and art of the Iberian peninsula. The staffs described in this article represent two categories. The first of them is an elegant clothing accessory carried by a man who took care of his appearance. A note in the documentation of the donation indicates the cane had once belonged to Lucjan Siemieński (1807–1877), a Polish poet. Although its handle was made in Eibar or Toledo, as a whole the cane might have been made and used outside Spanish borders. Regardless of the how and where the cane was bought by Siemieński, it seems it can be dated to the third quarter of the 19th century. The second of the staffs, linked more with the local folklore, provides information about the place where it was made. The inscription visible on the bottom ferrule suggests the staff was made in 1881 in Saint-Jean de-Luz, a town on the Atlantic coast in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, France, several kilometres from the border with Spain, a part of the Basque province of Labourd (Lapurdi). Both the construction and decoration signify that is a makila (makhila), a cane characteristic of the Basque men’s costume.
SARS-CoV-2-related Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults
Authors: Martins Antonio , Policarpo Sílvia , Silva Pinto André , Santos Ana Sofia , Figueiredo Paulo , Sarmento António , Santos Lurdes
Published: November 2021

Adults infected with SARS-CoV-2 may develop a multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-A) characterized by elevated inflammatory markers and multisystem organ involvement. We report the case of a patient who presented with fever and vomiting at hospital admission. He tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection and blood tests showed elevated inflammatory markers. The patient developed acute cardiac dysfunction and shock in less than 24 hours and the echocardiogram revealed an LVEF of 30%. He was discharged 3 weeks later fully recovered. MIS-A should be considered if a compatible syndrome is observed in patients with evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection by PCR test or serology.
First mating report of tayra (Eira barbara) in the wild, in Panamá
Authors: Fuentes M. Rogemif D. , De Gracia C. Aracelys , Quintero-Arrieta Helio , Baules Alexis , Miranda Madian , Batista Abel
Published: November 2021

Existe poca información acerca del proceso de apareamiento de Eira barbara (tayra o gato cutarro, como se le conoce en Panamá).  Reportado únicamente en cautiverio, por Poglayen-Neuwall (1975).  Se colocaron dos cámaras trampa, separadas 220 m, dentro del Parque Nacional Altos de Campana, en la zona limítrofe con la comunidad de El Chileno.  Se analizaron los sonidos emitidos por los individuos durante el evento mediante los programas PREMIERE PRO-6.0.0 y Raven Pro1.5.  Describimos etapas de este proceso evidenciado en una secuencia de 8 videos de 10 segundos cada uno, captado por una de nuestras cámaras trampa; consideramos el evento como una sola monta. Ambos individuos hacen sonidos durante el evento, que interpretamos como clics con frecuencia dominante de 3.19 KHz y trinos frecuencia dominante de 3.23 KHz.  Comparamos este evento con el reportado en cautiverio por Poglayen-Neuwall (1975).  Tanto en cautiverio como en nuestro reporte se observa el agarre nucal y el arrastre ocasional de la hembra por parte del macho.  También realizamos el primer análisis bioacústico del proceso de apareamiento de esta especie.
Early observations on the use of termite nests by bats
Authors: Timm Robert M.
Published: November 2021

El notable descubrimiento de murciélagos de orejas redondeadas neotropicales (Phyllostomidae, Lophostoma) que habitan las cavidades en los nidos de termitas como sitios de anidamiento, ha permitido a los investigadores explorar varios aspectos desconocidos de su comportamiento.  Ahora sabemos que los murciélagos de orejas redondeadas excavan cavidades en los nidos de Nasutitermes que son utilizados activamente por las termitas y que los murciélagos anidan exclusivamente en esas cavidades, entre otros aspectos de su comportamiento de los quirópteros.  A principios de la década de 1800, un naturalista británico, Charles Waterton, publicó la observación de que los murciélagos hacen agujeros y se posan en nidos de termitas y cómo fue capaz de comprobar si un nido de termitas estaba siendo utilizado por murciélagos.  La descripción por parte de Waterton de este comportamiento se ha obviado durante mucho tiempo y ahora nos proporciona información adicional sobre la distribución y la ecología de estos quirópteros poco conocidos.
Abundance of aposematic patterns in hooded skunk, Mephitis macroura
Authors: Monroy-Gamboa Alina Gabriela , Lavariega Mario C. , Ramos-Méndez Dagoberto
Published: November 2021

Algunos organismos advierten a sus depredadores a través de patrones de coloración.  Este es el caso del zorrillo listado sureño, Mephitis macroura.  Asumimos que la coloración de los zorrillos es aposemática, por lo que el objetivo fue analizar los patrones de coloración de una población de zorrillo listado sureño.  Nuestra hipótesis fue que los individuos que mostraran una coloración más contrastante serían más abundantes en tipos de vegetación abierta que aquellos con una coloración de pelaje menos contrastante.  Por medio de cámaras-trampa, agrupamos las fotografías del zorrillo listado sureño mostrando diferentes tipos de combinación de los patrones de coloración y se determinó la abundancia relativa de los individuos por patrones por grupo y hábitat.  Identificamos 25 individuos en el área de estudio, la mayoría en pastizales inducidos e identificamos cuatro combinaciones de patrones de coloración.  Encontramos una superposición en el periodo de actividad y el espacio, así como una alta abundancia del patrón de coloración más contrastante en el tipo de vegetación más abierta, aceptando nuestra hipótesis.  Se contribuye a un mayor entendimiento sobre las relaciones ecológicas entre el hábitat y la posible adaptación de las especies a su ambiente como los zorrillos.
Trend and seasonality analysis of milk production from dairy cooperatives in Chiang Mai
Authors:   Department of Food Animal Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100 Thailand, Punyapornwithaya Veerasak , Klaharn Kunnanut ,   Bureau of Livestock Standards and Certification, Department of Livestock Development (DLD), Bangkok 10400 Thailand, Sansamur Chalutwan ,   Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160 Thailand, Kitpipit Warangkana ,   Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160 Thailand
Published: November 2021

Analysis of trend and seasonality for production data is essential for establishing planning and strategy for future marketing. The aims of this study were 1) to determine the trend and seasonality of milk production and 2) to compare the quantity of milk among dairy cooperatives in Chiang Mai. Monthly milk production data from 7 dairy cooperatives and a company collected during 2016-2020 were analyzed for trend and seasonality using time series methods. Overall milk productions in 2019 was compared among dairy cooperative using a general linear mixed model. Results showed that most of the dairy cooperatives showed an increasing trend for milk production. The milk productions from all dairy cooperatives had a similar seasonality pattern as the highest milk production was found in the period of March to May. Among dairy cooperative, Chaiprakarn was the top rank in milk production (2581.73±50.46 tons/month). This study provided essential information for dairy cooperative boards, government sectors, private sectors, and other stakeholders to plan and manage the amount of milk in the future.
Preliminary assessment of probiotic Bacillus subtilis C-3102 in feces: evaluation of their survival after oral supplementation in goats
Authors:   Uttaradit Provincial Livestock Office, Uttaradit 53210, Thailand, Choonkham Watcharapong , van Ruitenbeek Axel (A. H.) ,   Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen 6700AH, The Netherlands, Schonewille Jan Thomas ,   Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584CL, Netherlands, Suriyasathaporn Witaya ,   Research Center of Producing and Development of Products and Innovations for Animal Health and Production, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Published: November 2021

The objective of the study was to assess the presence of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 in feces after oral supplementation in goats. Six, rumen-fistulated, 3.5 year-old, non-lactating female Saanen goats (average initial body weight of 65 ± 8 kg) were assigned to two treatments 1) a basal diet (CON), and 2) a basal diet supplemented with B. subtilis C-3102 probiotic product (BS) in a cross-over design. Each experimental period lasted 21 days with was preceded by a 20 days adaptation period. On the last day of each experimental period, rumen fluid and fecal samples were collected. Body weights were recorded weekly throughout the experiment. Body weight and rumen pH were found to be similar between dietary treatments. The goats that received BS had higher numbers of B. subtilis C-3102 in fecal samples than CON. It was therefore concluded that supplemental B. subtilis C-3102 met an important precondition of probiotics in that they can survive the passage through the gastrointestinal tract without evident adverse effects. The current result provides a solid basis for future research involving any effects after supplementing probiotic B. subtilis in goats.
The sperm longevity and freezability in the modified BHSV extender of Thai Pradu-hangdum chicken
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Khunkaew Chakorn , Patchanee Prapas ,   Department of Food Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Panasophonkul Sasithorn ,   Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Cao Zubing ,   Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China, Zhang Yunhai ,   Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China, Sathanawongs Anucha ,   Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Published: November 2021

Pradu-hangdum is a distinctive Thai native pure breed chicken. To conserve the pure breed of this chicken species, the artificial insemination was invested. The key to the highly successful output of this technique is high quality of semen. Hence, the objective of the present study is to characterize the Pradu-hangdam sperms and their longevity and freezability in the BHSV extender. The semen of the 30 randomized male chicken were collected. The macroscopic and microscopic examination were used to determine the sperm characters. The results revealed that the Pradu-hangdam sperms contained normal a spiral-shaped head, mid-piece and tail and normal white cream color. The mean number of sperm concentration was 5.24×109 ± 1.54 sperms/mL. The mean volume was 0.22 ± 0.08 mL. The results of longevity in mean total motility of sperm was 85.20%, 56.00% and 36.33% storage for 1, 24, and 48 hours after semen collection in extender, respectively. The longevity of sperm storage in extender decreased significantly at 24 and 48 hours (P<0.05). The freezability of Pradu-hangdam semen significant decreased from 81.45% to 57.02% of motility (P<0.05) but in the range of acceptable result for insemination. In conclusion, this study provides the basic knowledge of sperm characters and their longevity which decreases in relation to the time after collection even though it was preserved and frozen in the BHSV of the acceptable data. Furthermore, the freezing technique and fertility rate should be a further study in the long-term preservation of Pradu-hangdam sperms.
The current state of biosecurity and welfare of ornamental fish population in pet fish stores in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Authors:   Department of Food Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Saengsitthisak Banthita , Punyapornwithaya Veerasak ,   Public Health and Food Safety Centre for Asia Pacific (VPHCAP), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Chaisri Wasana ,   Department of Food Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Mektrirat Raktham ,   Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Bernard John K. ,   Department of Animal and Dairy Science, The University of Georgia, Tifton, Georgia 31793, USA, Pikulkaew Surachai ,   Center of Producing and Development of Products and Innovations for Animal Health and Production, Department of Food Animal Clinic and Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Published: November 2021

Aquaculture has undergone extensive development in recent decades due to its use as a source of protein for human consumption, as models for scientific research, and as pets. The purpose of this study was to survey ornamental fish stores in Chiang Mai province, Thailand to identify practices which affect life quality and welfare of pet fish including general management, biosecurity management, and knowledge about fish disease and drug usage of ornamental fish store owners. The results show that most pet fish stores have poor husbandry in terms of fish health based on the observed incidence of skin erosion and fin rot (92.86%) and white spots on the skin (78.57%) in store fish. Moreover, treatment of these health conditions were performed by experienced people working in the stores without consulting a veterinarian. The top three drugs used for treatment included malachite green oxalate, trichlorfon, and formalin. Interestingly, oxytetracycline and chlortetracycline were also used frequently to treat fish disease. Despite a lack of formal training in fish management, fish health, and drug usage in ornamental fish, the knowledge of owners about fish disease and antibacterial agent usage was determined to be of an intermediate level based on testing. The information gained from this study can be used in future studies to identify stressors that affect pet fish welfare and to investigate biosecurity and ornamental fish welfare in the other sectors of the ornamental fish trade supply chain.
Ovarian sex-cord stromal tumor in Yorkshire Terrier dog
Authors:   Small Animal Clinic, Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinic,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thongtharb Atigan ,   Thailand Oncology Clinic, Small Animal Hospital, Chiang Mai University Animal Hospital,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Khunpratoom Kittiphong ,   Surgery Unit, Small Animal Hospital, Chiang Mai University Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Patanadamrongchai Pandhira ,   Surgery Unit, Small Animal Hospital, Chiang Mai University Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Boonsri Kittikorn ,   Veterinary Diagnostic Center, Chiang Mai University Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Phosri Apinan ,   Small Animal Clinic, Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand, Sripratak Thatdanai ,   Metta Pet Hospital, Muang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Published: November 2021

A 12-year-old, spayed Yorkshire Terrier dog with a history of progressive abdominal distension was diagnosed with an ovarian sex-cord stromal tumor. Microscopically, the residual ovarian tissue sample was composed of 2 different tumor cell populations: a luteal-like cell and Sertoli cell components. These cells were notably immunopositive for vimentin, inhibin-α and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). On the basis of all findings, the tumor was diagnosed as luteoma and Sertoli cell tumor of the ovary developing from the ovarian remnant tissue.
Histopathological observation and health status of the zebra-snout seahorse Hippocampus barbouri Jordan & Richardson, 1908 in captivity
Authors:   Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand, Kamnurdnin Thatpon , Senarat Sinlapachai ,   Department of Marine Science and Environment, Faculty of Science and Fisheries Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Trang 92150, Thailand, Kettratad Jes ,   Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand,   Bangkok Marine Ecology and Marine Resources Utilization Research Unit, Aquatic Resources Research Institute, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand, Pairohakul Supanut ,   Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand, Jiraungkoorskul Wannee ,   Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand, Suksuwan Ratree ,   Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center, Lower Gulf of Thailand. Khao Rup Chang, Mueang Songkhla District, Songkhla 90000, Thailand, Sukparangsi Woranop ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chon Buri 20131, Thailand, Sudtongkong Chanyut ,   Department of Marine Science and Environment, Faculty of Science and Fisheries Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Trang 92150, Thailand
Published: November 2021

The health status of the zebra-snout seahorse, Hippocampus barbouri in captivity has been required for approval for aquaculture. In this study, we investigated the histopathological appearance of three vital organs including gill, kidney and liver in captive H. barbouri during its juvenile and adult stages, by using histological techniques. In juveniles from stage 14-days (100% prevalence) towards stage 30-days adults (100% prevalence), the gills exhibited intraepithelial edema and necrosis while hepatic tissue showed evidence of intracytoplasmic vacuoles. In addition, histological alteration to renal tissues was observed the degeneration of renal tubules, the presence of melanomacrophage, and the infection of trematode parasites. The parasites were found in stage 30-days adult fish in the kidney (33.3 % prevalence). Taken together, this study highlights the issue of health in captive rearing of H. barbouri, in particular histopathological alterations in gill, liver and kidney tissues, suggesting that aquaculture of this seahorse species requires improved methods and protocols for maintenance and preventing infection.
Monsters in our food: Foodborne trematodiasis in the Philippines and beyond
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Paraclinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan 9407, Cotabato, Philippines, Tenorio Jan Clyden B. ,   Department of Veterinary Paraclinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna 4031, Philippines, Molina Elizabeth C. ,   Department of Veterinary Paraclinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan 9407, Cotabato, Philippines,   SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC), University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan 9407, Cotabato, Philippines
Published: November 2021

Foodborne trematodiasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by zoonotic trematodes that persist mainly in impoverished areas in the Asia-Pacific region. Globally, about 2 million disability life years (DALYs) are lost due to these parasitic infections. Four groups of foodborne trematodes are known to cause significant illness: fish-borne liver fluke infections caused by Opisthorchis and Clonorchis spp.; water vegetable-borne Fasciola spp. infections; crustacean-vectored paragonimiasis; and those caused by intestinal trematodes. In the Philippines, endemic foodborne trematodes of public health concern include Paragonimus westermani, some members of Heterophyidae and Echinostomatidae, and Fasciola hepatica/ F. gigantica. Opisthorchis viverrini and Clonorchis sinensis have also been reported in the country. Data on the epidemiology of these zoonotic illnesses remain scarce and in need of research attention in the Philippines. Culturally rooted eating behaviors in endemic areas are important risk factors to acquiring and perpetuating foodborne trematodiasis. The combination of mass drug administration (MDA), provision of clean water and maintenance of good sanitation and hygiene (WASH), community health education towards modification of risky behaviors, surveillance, and veterinary public health interventions have been shown to be effective in combatting these zoonotic parasitoses. An integrated control and prevention program anchored on the One Health paradigm is a must to address these illnesses. This paper aims to review the biology and epidemiology of, and public health interventions against zoonotic foodborne trematodiasis in the Philippines and its neighboring countries.
Toxoplasma gondii prevalence and risk factors in owned domestic cats from Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand
Authors:   Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400 Thailand, Udonsom Ruenruetai , Buddhirongawatr Ruangrat ,   Department of Clinical Science and Public Health Med, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170 Thailand, Nishikawa Yoshifumi ,   National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido 0808555, Japan, Fereig Ragab M. ,   National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido 0808555, Japan,   Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena 83523, Egypt, Jirapattharasate Charoonluk ,   Department of Pre-clinic and Applied Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170 Thailand
Published: November 2021

Domestic cats are a potential source of Toxoplasma gondii infection for humans. This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors for T. gondii infection in domestic cats. Cat sera (n = 182) were tested for T. gondii IgG antibodies using the latex agglutination test (LAT) and the GRA7 of T. gondii (TgGRA7)-indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify the factors associated with T. gondii infection. The overall prevalence rates were 18.1% (33/182) according to LAT, 19.2% (35/182) according to the iELISA and 17.0% (31/182) according to LAT and iELISA. Univariable analyses identified, outdoor access (P = 0.006), being a former stray cat (P = 0.001) and successful hunting behaviors (P = 0.04) as risk factors for T. gondii infection. Outdoor access (OR 2.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–6.72) and is a former stray cat (OR 3.69, 95% CI 1.52–8.96) remained significant risk factors in multivariable analyses. This study indicated a relatively high seroprevalence of T. gondii among domestic cats. Cat owners can reduce the risk for T. gondii infection by not allowing their cats to roam free. Furthermore, education about the transmission of the parasite should be provided to prevent infection to the owners.