bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of low temperatures on dynamic mechanical properties of animal bone
Authors: Mardas Marcin , Kubisz Leszek , Mielcarek Slawomir , Biskupski Piotr
Published: September 2010

The influence of low temperatures on dynamic mechanical properties of animal bone

Different preservation methods are currently used in bone banks, even though their effects on allograft quality are not fully understood. Freezing is one of the most popular methods of preservation in tissue banking. Yet, there is not a lot of data on dynamic mechanical properties of frozen bone. Material used in this study was femoral bones from adult bovine that were machine cut and frozen to the temperature 140°C. Both elastic modulus and loss modulus were measured at 1, 3, 5, 10, and 20 Hz in the temperature range of 30-200°C. Differences between frozen and control samples were observed. The frequency increase always led to the increase in elastic modulus values and decrease in loss modulus values. Freezing reduced the elastic modulus values of about 25% and the loss modulus values of about 45% when measured at 20°C.
Photoluminescence of Neutron-Irradiated LiF Single Crystals
Authors: Jonane I. , Podins A. , Ivanova A.
Published: September 2010

Photoluminescence of Neutron-Irradiated LiF Single Crystals

In 1980, a single LiF crystal was irradiated by thermal neutrons up to the exposition dose 1019n/cm2at the Salaspils nuclear reactor. The crystal has been kept at room temperature for 29 years. Samples in size of 5×4×1 mm3were cut from the crystal and some of them annealed at 920 K for 30 min. To study photoluminescence, measurements with a confocal laser scanning microscope Leica TCS SP5 were performed, during which 3D-defects of size of ~1μm3were revealed. Photoluminescence was observed in the red spectral region with the peak of ~ 655 nm when excited with an argon laser (Δ = 458 nm).
Associations of Serum Leptin with Atopic Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis in Children
Authors: Quek Yeak-Wun , Sun Hai-Lun , Ng Yan-Yan , Lee Hong-Shen , Yang Shun-Fa , Ku Min-Sho , Lu Ko-Hsiu , Sheu Ji-Nan , Lue Ko-Huang
Published: September 2010

Background

There is growing evidence of positive correlations between asthma (AS) and obesity in adults and children. Leptin is an obesity gene product secreted by white adipose tissue; elevated serum levels are found in obese adults and children. Recently, leptin has also been found to be associated with allergic rhinitis (AR). However, the links between serum leptin, atopic AS, and AR remained undetermined. Because AS and AR share common allergic inflammatory mechanisms, our aim was to determine if there were any differences in serum leptin levels between asthmatic children and nonasthmatic children with AR.

Methods

We studied 114 children (67 boys and 47 girls): 68 with mild intermittent-to-moderate persistent atopic AS (AS children) and 46 with mild-to-moderate persistent AR without AS (AR children; overall mean age, 8.51 years; range, 5–18 years). Body mass index (BMI), serum leptin, pulmonary function, and atopy parameters (serum IgE and eosinophil levels) were measured.

Results

Compared with AR children, AS children had higher body weights (kg), body mass indices (kg/cm2), and serum leptin levels (ng/mL). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that serum leptin concentrations differed significantly for girls, being overweight and between disease groups (AS and AR children).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that a higher serum leptin level has stronger association with mild-to-moderate persistent AS compared with AR. Hence, serum leptin may be a stronger predictor for childhood AS compared with AR. Among the asthmatic children, higher serum leptin levels also showed stronger associations with female gender and being overweight.
Epidemiology and Burden of Rhinitis and Rhinoconjunctivitis in 9- to 11-Year-Old Children
Authors: Civelek Ersoy , Yavuz Suleyman Tolga , Boz Aysen Bingol , Orhan Fazil , Yuksel Hasan , Uner Abdurrahman , Cakir Banu , Sekerel Bulent E.
Published: September 2010

Background

Rhinoconjunctivitis (RC) is regarded as the most common chronic disease of childhood; however, the currently available epidemiological studies on prevalence, burden, and risk factors of RC are insufficient. This analysis aimed to investigate potential risk factors, symptom frequency, and burden of RC.

Methods

Using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood Phase II questionnaires, 6963 elementary school children aged 9–11 years were surveyed in five different city centers of Turkey. All participants were skin-prick tested with common aeroallergens.

Results

The prevalence of ever rhinitis, physician-diagnosed rhinitis, current rhinitis, and current RC were 51.6, 31.0, 43.5, and 23.1%, respectively; 19.8% of children with RC symptoms were atopic to at least one allergen. Among students with RC symptoms, 42.2, 23.9, 35.8, and 28.2% reported moderate–severe interference of daily activities, at least 1 day of absence from school, visit to a health care professional, and any drug usage for rhinitis, respectively. Nasal decongestants and oral antihistamines were the most frequently used treatment. Approximately 70% of RC patients reported perennial symptoms and 42.8% were classified as mild to intermittent. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed family history of asthma and/or allergic rhinitis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.863; confidence interval, [CI] = 1.583–2.191; p < 0.001), living in a house with mold and dampness in the 1st year of life (OR = 1.651; CI = 1.356–2.01; p < 0.001), maternal smoking in pregnancy (OR = 1.425; CI = 1.089–1.864; p = 0.011), low monthly income (OR = 1.685; CI = 1.422–1.998; p = 0.001), current wheezing (OR = 2.543; CI = 2.151–3.006; p = 0.001), and current atopic eczema (OR = 2.503; CI = 1.96–3.196; p = 0.001) as significant risk factors for current RC.

Conclusion

Along with the high prevalence of RC in childhood, underdiagnosis and undertreatment of the disease are also frequent. The socioeconomic burden of the disease can be reduced by increasing awareness and proper diagnosis/treatment.
Assessing Current Technical Limitations in the Small-Hole Endoscopic Approach to the Maxillary Sinus
Authors: Robey Ashley , O'Brien Erin K. , Leopold Donald A.
Published: September 2010

Background

Endoscopic sinus surgery has evolved to become the standard surgical approach to address paranasal sinus disease. To access inflammatory mucosal disease and other benign processes, it is desirable to reach all parts of the maxillary sinus. This project explores the combination of three medial wall small-hole antrostomies with multiple angled microdebrider blades to determine if an ideal combination exists. A prospective cadaveric study was performed.

Methods

Each 3.5-mm blade was passed through the natural ostium and two separate inferior meatal antrostomies. The space reached by the tip of four different microdebrider blades (12, 60, 90 and 120°) within each maxillary sinus was mapped using an image guidance system. Percent volume of the sinus reached and access to subsites were determined.

Results

Regardless of instrument or antrostomy combination, mean percent volume of maxillary sinus reached was 28% (range, 24–34%). The anterior wall was rarely reached by any combination, with the best blade/antrostomy combination (90° blade/anterior inferior antrostomy) only reaching 28% of the anterior wall. Likewise, the floor of the maxillary sinus was also poorly reached in general. The lateral and posterior maxillary sinus walls were most reliably reached with the roof and medial walls being intermediate.

Conclusion

Using the endoscopic small-hole approach to the maxillary sinus results in <⅓ of the sinus being routinely reached regardless of antrostomy or angled microdebrider instrument selected. Further study and development of new technologies to more thoroughly reach benign processes within the maxillary sinus via a small-hole approach is warranted.
Selective Irrigation of Paranasal Sinuses in the Treatment of Recalcitrant Chronic Sinusitis
Authors: Moshaver Ali , Velazquez-Villasenor Louis , Lavigne Francois , Witterick Ian J.
Published: September 2010

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) refractory to medical and surgical therapy is a challenging entity to treat. Topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs have been increasingly used in managing this disorder. The aim of this pilot study is to evaluate the role of maxillary sinus antrostomy tubes (MAST) in selectively irrigating paranasal sinuses with topical antibiotics with anti-inflammatory in treating recalcitrant CRS. A prospective clinical trial was performed at a tertiary referral center.

Methods

Thirteen patients with failed maximal medical and surgical therapies for chronic sinusitis were enrolled in the study. Endoscopic scores as well as the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 16 (SNOT-16) scores were obtained before and 3, 8, and 16 weeks after maxillary sinus intubation with MAST. All patients received topical antibiotics with anti-inflammatory medication for 21 days.

Results

Statistically significant reductions in SNOT-16 and endoscopic scores were found before and after topical irrigations. Both scores continued to improve at the 8th and 16th weeks.

Conclusion

Selective irrigation of maxillary sinuses using MAST is a viable alternative in treating recalcitrant CRS.
Decreased Rhinovirus Shedding after Intranasal Oxymetazoline Application in Adults with Induced Colds Compared with Intranasal Saline
Authors: Winther Birgit , Buchert Dagobert , Turner Ronald B. , Hendley J. Owen , Tschaikin Marion
Published: September 2010

Background

Intranasal oxymetazoline (OMZ) is used as a decongestant during common colds. Recently, intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) 1 receptor expression in vitro has been shown to be diminished by OMZ. ICAM-1 is the major receptor used by rhinovirus to gain entry to human cells. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of OMZ on geometric mean titer of rhinovirus in nasal lavage fluid after rhinovirus inoculation.

Methods

Volunteers with antibody titers of ≤1:4 to rhinovirus type 39 were enrolled in a randomized, reference-controlled, double-blind study. Beginning 3 hours after intranasal challenge with 100–300 tissue culture infectious dose (TCID)50 of virus, subjects received active 0.05% OMZ (45 μL containing 22.5 μg of OMZ hydrochloride in citrate buffer) or reference control (physiological saline solution [PSS]) three times daily for 5 days. Rhinovirus was detected in fibroblast cultures.

Results

Geometric mean viral titer (log10) in 34 rhinovirus-infected subjects receiving OMZ was 1.49 on day 2 compared with 2.24 in the 38 infected subjects receiving PSS (p = 0.04). On day 3, the mean titers were 1.45 and 2.08, respectively. Median length of viral shedding was 3.3 days (OMZ) and 3.4 (PSS). Duration of clinical illness was 6.1 days in both groups.

Conclusion

Topical OMZ decreased viral titer on day 2 during experimental rhinovirus infection in normal volunteers.
Transpalatal Greater Palatine Canal Injection: Radioanatomic Analysis of where to Bend the Needle for Pediatric Sinus Surgery
Authors: McKinney Kibwei A. , Stadler Michael E. , Wong Yu-Tung , Shah Rupali N. , Rose Austin S. , Zdanski Carlton J. , Ebert Charles S. , Wheless Stephen A. , Senior Brent A. , Drake Amelia F. , Zanation Adam M.
Published: September 2010

Background

The greater palatine canal (GPC) local injection is used to limit posterior bleeding during sinus surgery in adults. Given the potential for causing iatrogenic damage to the intraorbital contents, this procedure is not commonly used in the pediatric population. No studies have described the anatomic development of the GPC during facial growth. By using age-stratified radioanatomic analysis, the dimensions of the GPC and the clinical implications are described for pediatric patients. An age-stratified radioanatomic study was performed.

Methods

High-resolution computed tomography measurements included the thickness of the mucosal plane overlying the GPC, the length of the GPC, and the distance between the base of the pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) and the orbital floor. Mean distance and standard deviation were calculated for each age cohort and compared using the one-way ANOVA test.

Results

The GPC length correlated directly with patient age. It varied from 9.14 ± 0.11 mm in the youngest age group (<2 years) to 19.36 ± 2.76 mm in adults (18–64 years). The height of the orbit relative to the hard palate approximated the adult dimensions described in the literature by 12–13 years (49.58 ± 1.72 mm).

Conclusion

These radioanatomic results suggest that the GPC injection described for adult patients may be safely administered to selected pediatric patients. For patients >12 years old, we recommend bending the needle 45° and inserting it 25 mm. For patients 6–12 years old, the needle should be inserted 20 mm to enter into the PPF. In patients <6 years old, the needle may safely be placed 12 mm into the GPC. Each of these descriptions is based on the minimal distance required to effectively access the PPF but with maximal safety in regard to the orbit. Further clinical correlation of these findings is necessary through future investigation.
Nasal Polyps: An Independent Risk Factor for Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Ahn Youngjin , An Soo-Youn , Won Tae-Bin , Kim Jeong-Whun , Lee Chul Hee , Min Yang-Gi , Cho Sang Heon , Park Heung Woo , Koh Young Yull , Kim Sun Sin , Rhee Chae-Seo
Published: September 2010

Background

Many studies were conducted to figure out the relationship between allergic rhinitis (AR) and lower airway diseases. This study was designed to elucidate the clinical parameters that could predict the coexistence of bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) in AR and suggest a guideline for lower airway evaluation in these patients.

Methods

One hundred seventy-three patients newly diagnosed with AR were evaluated for the lower airway with the methacholine bronchoprovocation test.

Results

BHR was more prevalent in patients with nasal polyps (p = 0.01), in patients complaining of moderate to severe symptoms (p = 0.023), with higher serum total IgE levels (p = 0.001), and with blood eosinophil count (p = 0.008). No statistically significant difference was observed between intermittent and persistent AR patients (p = 0.364). Blood eosinophil count that could predict BHR was calculated as 320 cells/μL (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Instead of a routine lower airway evaluation for all AR patients, we recommend lower airway evaluation for the selected patients with nasal polyps, moderate to severe symptoms, and high blood eosinophil count.
Numerical Simulation of the Effects of Inferior Turbinate Surgery on Nasal Airway Heating Capacity
Authors: Chen Xiao Bing , Lee Heow Pueh , Chong Vincent Fook Hin , Wang De Yun
Published: September 2010

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of inferior turbinate surgery on nasal airway heating capacity using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations.

Methods

Heat transfer simulations were performed for a normal nasal cavity and others with severely enlarged inferior turbinates, before and after three simulated surgical procedures: (1) resection of the lower third free edge of the inferior turbinate, (2) excision of the head of the inferior turbinate, and (3) radical inferior turbinate resection. The models were run with three different environmental temperatures.

Results

The changes of airflow pattern with the reduction of inferior turbinate affected heat transfer greatly. However, the distribution of wall heat flux showed that the main location for heat exchange was still the anterior region. Under the cold environment, the nasal cavities with the head of inferior turbinate reduction were capable of heating the inspired air to 98.40% of that of the healthy one; however, for the case with lower third of inferior turbinate excised, the temperature was 11.65% lower and for the case with radical inferior turbinate resection, 18.27% lower temperature compared with the healthy nasal cavity.

Conclusion

The healthy nasal cavity is able to warm up or cool down the inspiratory airflow under different environmental temperature conditions; for the nasal cavities with turbinate surgeries, partial inferior turbinate reduction can still sustain such heating capacity. However, too much or total turbinate resection may impair the normal function of temperature adjustment by nasal mucosa.
Economic Burden of Allergic Rhinitis in Korea
Authors: Kim So Young , Yoon Seok-Jun , Jo Min-Woo , Kim Eun-Jung , Kim Hyun-Jin , Oh In-Hwan
Published: September 2010

Background

Allergic rhinitis is one of most prevalent chronic diseases and results in relatively high medical expenses and economic burden; however, in Korea, studies on economic costs are limited. Therefore, this study investigated the health care use and socioeconomic costs of allergic rhinitis in Korea.

Methods

This study extracted the insurance claims records from the Korea National Health Insurance Corporation (NHIC) claims database for determining the health care services provided to patients with allergic rhinitis in 2007. The total allergic rhinitis–related cost was the sum of the direct medical care costs, the direct nonmedical care costs, and the indirect cost. The direct medical care consists of the costs paid by insurers and patients, the noncovered service costs, the prescribed drug costs, and the over-the-counter drug costs.

Results

A total of 4,068,517 people were identified as having allergic rhinitis, yielding a prevalence of 8.4%. The prevalence for children <20 years of age was 13.5% and higher than that of adults. Especially the prevalence of preschool children was higher. The total direct cost was $223.68 million and the lost productivity was estimated to be $49.25 million. Therefore, we approximated the economic burden of allergic rhinitis to be $272.92 million.

Conclusion

Allergic rhinitis was a frequently occurring disease in the NHIC Claims database and the economic burden has been estimated to be almost $272.92 million. Although this study has some limitations, it is the first study of economic burden in allergic rhinitis representing the entire Korean population.
The Effect of Expandable Polyvinyl Acetate Packing for Preventing Stenosis of the Frontal Sinus Ostium
Authors: Kang Il Gyu , Jung Joo Hyun , Woo Joo Hyun , Cha Heung Eog , Kim Seon Tae
Published: September 2010

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of repeated expandable polyvinyl acetate (EPA) packing for preventing stenosis of the frontal sinus ostium after patients undergo functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).

Methods

A nonrandomized, prospective study of 20 patients with chronic frontal sinusitis was conducted based on the Lund-Mackay scoring system. EPA was packed, for 3 days/week, in total, three times for 3 weeks, into the left frontal sinus ostium right after FESS. For the control, the right side frontal sinus ostium was left unpacked. After 6 months, the patency of the frontal sinus ostium was measured with a ruler under endoscopic guidance and the patency was classified as obstructed, stenotic, or patent according to the size.

Results

Obstruction developed in the right side in four patients and in the left side in two patients. Stenosis was found in the right side in eight patients and in the left side in one patient. The ostium of the frontal sinus was patent in the right side in 8 patients and patent in the left side in 17 patients. The sizes of the ostia were significantly different between the frontal sinuses on both sides 6 months after FESS (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The outcome of repeated EPA packing was favorable in patients undergoing FESS.
The Effect of Macrolides on Myofibroblast Differentiation and Collagen Production in Nasal Polyp–Derived Fibroblasts
Authors: Park Hyo-Hyun , Park Il-Ho , Cho Jung-Sun , Lee You-Mi , Lee Heung-Man
Published: September 2010

Background

Macrolides are known to have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and tissue reparative effects. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of macrolides (erythromycin [EM] and roxithromycin [RXM]) on the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and extracellular matrix accumulation in transforming growth factor (TGF) beta1–induced nasal polyp–derived fibroblasts (NPDFs) and to determine if NADPH oxidase (Nox) 4 and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in the aforementioned processes.

Methods

Nasal polyps of six patients (three women and three men; 32.3 ± 5.2 years of age) were acquired during surgery and NPDFs were isolated from surgical tissues. NPDFs were pretreated with macrolides for 2 hours before differentiation induction by TGF-beta1. The mRNA expressions of alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA), collagen types I and III, and Nox4 were determined by reverse-transcription–polymerase chain reaction, and the expression of alpha-SMA protein was determined by immunocytochemical staining. The amount of total collagen production was analyzed by SirCol collagen dye-binding assay. ROS activity was measured by nitroblue tetrazolium reduction assay and was visualized by fluorescent microscopy.

Results

In TGF-beta1–induced NPDFs, EM, and RXM significantly inhibited expressions of alpha-SMA and collagen types I and III mRNA and reduced alpha-SMA and collagen protein levels at concentrations of 5 and 10 μg/mL. EM and RXM also inhibited TGF-β1–induced ROS production and Nox4 mRNA expression at the same concentrations.

Conclusion

These results suggest the possibility that EM and RXM may play an important role in inhibiting the development of nasal polyps through their antioxidant effect.
Effect of Area of Residence on Patterns of Aeroallergen Sensitization in Atopic Patients
Authors: Mahesh P.A. , Kummeling Ischa , Amrutha D.H. , Vedanthan Pudupakkam K.
Published: September 2010

Background

An association with sensitization to inhaled allergens and allergic rhinitis and asthma has been established. A recent study concluded that the disparity in allergen sensitization might primarily be caused by environmental factors rather than genetic differences. The primary objective was to identify potential differences in sensitization among subjects with the same ethnicity in South India who reside in different environments.

Methods

Five hundred forty-six patients presenting to a tertiary allergy center with allergic rhinitis and or asthma underwent evaluation using a structured questionnaire, skin-prick testing to common aeroallergens, and spirometry and were categorized according to area of residence.

Results

The most common allergens causing sensitization were house-dust mite (range, 65–70%), trees (range, 52–56%), and cockroaches (range, 39–53%). There was lower risk of sensitization to cockroach allergens for subjects <21 years old living in suburban (odds ratio [OR], 0.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.12–0.81) and rural environments (OR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.11–0.96) compared with subjects <21 years old living in urban areas. There was higher risk of sensitization to fungi in subjects <21 years old living in suburban areas (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 0.60–3.77) and rural environments (OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 0.98–7.48) compared with subjects <21 years old living in urban environments.

Conclusion

Sensitization patterns are similar in different areas of residence except in younger subjects. Sensitization to fungi was higher in younger subjects from the rural area and cockroach sensitization were higher in younger subjects from urban areas. Sensitization is an important precursor of clinical allergic disease and further studies to unravel the complex gene–environment interactions of aeroallergen sensitization in different environments are needed.
Values of Selected Haematological Indicators in Six Species of Feathered Game
Authors: Straková Eva , Suchý Pavel , Kábelová Romana , Vitula František , Herzig Ivan
Published: September 2010

The present paper extends the knowledge of selected blood indicators in six species of feathered game such as helmeted guineafowl (Numida meleagris), common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), chukar (Alectoris chucar), grey partridge (Perdix perdix) and wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), reared in the Czech Republic and Europe. The red blood cell (RBC) values in individual species of feathered game ranged as follows: the mean RBC counts varied in a range of 2.10 - 2.58 T/l; haematocrit values were in a range of 0.33 - 0.39 1/1; haemoglobin concentration varied in a range of 101.20 - 129.13 g/l; mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) ranged from 28.63 to 35.44%; mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) varied in a range of 46.15 - 62.07 pg and the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) was 147.66 - 178.20 fl. Except for the total concentration of haemoglobin and the mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, no significant differences were found between the mean values of RBC values in individual species of feathered game. However, some differences between species were found in white blood cell (WBC) values, ranging as follows: the total WBC count ranged from 13.55 to 26.90 G/l, basophil granulocytes from 0.011 to 0.110 G/l, eosinophil granulocytes from 0.011 to 0.593 G/l, neutrophil granulocytes from 1.868 to 6.661 G/l, lymphocytes from 10.937 to 20.922 G/l and monocytes from 0.034 to 0.199 G/l. Most values showed significant (P ⪬ 0.05) to highly significant (P ⪬ 0.01) interspecies differences. The main goal of the study was to investigate selected haematological indicators in six major species of feathered game.
Values of Selected Biochemical and Mineral Metabolism Indicators in Feathered Game
Authors: Suchý Pavel , Straková Eva , Kroupa Leo , Steinhauser Ladislav , Herzig Ivan
Published: September 2010

The present paper extends the current knowledge of biochemical and mineral profiles in selected species of feathered game such as helmeted guineafowl (Numida meleagris), common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), chukar (Alectoris chucar), grey partridge (Perdix perdix) and wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) reared in the Czech Republic and throughout Europe. The work evaluates potential interspecies differences among the values and compares the findings with the results reported for related domesticated species of birds. Indicators investigated in the individual species of feathered game such as total protein (TP), glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (CHOL), triacylglycerides (TAG), uric acid (UA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, Cl varied in ranges typical for layers and broiler chickens. Except for wild turkey where mineral metabolism values reached or even exceeded the upper limit of the physiological range, which may indicate a specific interspecies difference. However, with regard to the wide physiological range of biochemical indicators in the blood of birds, significant (P ⪬ 0.05) and highly significant (P ⪬ 0.01) differences in most mean values for the monitored indicators can not be evaluated as interspecies differences.
Effect of Vegetable Oil Fortified Feeds on the Content of Fatty Acids in Breast and Thigh Muscles in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Krejčí-Treu Tereza , Straková Eva , Suchý Pavel , Herzig Ivan
Published: September 2010

The main objective of this work was to compare the effect of six vegetable oils added to feeding mixtures that were administered to broiler chickens on the content of major fatty acids in chicken meat. The experiment started with 90 one-day-old Ross 308 meat hybrid male chickens that were divided into six groups. Chickens were fed complete feeding mixtures for the prefattening (BR1), fattening (BR2), and post-fattening (BR3) of broiler chickens. The BR1 feeding mixture was administered to chickens aged 1-10 days, the BR2 feeding mixture was given from Day 11 to Day 30, and the BR3 feeding mixture was then administered until Day 42. The BR1 feeding mixture that was administered to all six groups during the first ten days of the experiment was supplemented with soybean oil. BR2 and BR3 feeding mixtures used to feed chickens aged 11-42 days were fortified with soybean oil (SO Group), rapeseed oil (RO Group), sunflower oil (SFO Group), flaxseed oil (FO Group), olive oil (OO Group), and evening primrose oil (EPO Group). The vegetable oils used differed by the composition of fatty acids, particularly by the content of oleic acid, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid. The use of the above-described experimental diets in young broilers from Day 11 to 42 had a significant effect on the content of fatty acids in the fat from breast and thigh muscles. The content of α-linolenic acid in breast and thigh muscles of broilers that received the feed containing flaxseed oil (21.16 g/100 g of oil and 17.13 g/100 g of oil, respectively) significantly increased (p ⪬ 0.01). The highest content of linoleic acid (p ⪬ 0.01) in breast and thigh muscles was found in chickens that were fed the feed containing primrose oil (59.13 g/100 g and 51.71 g/100 g). A significant increase (p ⪬ 0.01) in the level of oleic acid was detected in both breast and thigh muscles of broilers that received olive oil fortified feed (52.44 g/100 g and 43.70 g/100 g of oil). No significant variation was found in the content of palmitic acid and palmitooleic acid. The levels of oleic acid, linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid in feeding mixtures correlated with those found in breast and thigh muscles (r = 0.88; 0.94 and 0.99; r = 0.99; 0.98 and 0.99).
Effect of the Feed Additive Clinoptilolite (ZeoFeed) on Nutrient Metabolism and Production Performance of Laying Hens
Authors: Macháček Miroslav , Večerek Vladimír , Mas Nora , Suchý Pavel , Straková Eva , Šerman Vlasta , Herzig Ivan
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of two levels of clinoptilolite administered in feed (2% and 4%) on some selected performance indicators, metabolic utilization of basic nutrients and the health status of laying hens. The selected 24 Bovans Goldline hybrid laying hens were divided into three equal groups, two experimental groups (E1 and E2) and one control group (C). The laying hens were housed individually in cages with an automatic supply of drinking water, manual feeding, in a setting with controlled light and temperature regimens. Hens from individual groups were all fed a complete feed mix of the same composition and the only difference was in clinoptilolite supplementation: feed mixes for E1 and E2 groups contained 2% and 4% of clinoptilolite (commercial additive ZeoFeed) respectively, replacing the same amounts of wheat. The hens received feed mixes and drinking water ad libitum. During this 28-day experiment, feed consumption and the number and weight of eggs laid were monitored individually for each hen. At the end of the experiment, the balance test using the indicator method (Cr2O3) was performed in all eight hens in each of the groups. The results of balance tests were then used to calculate the metabolic utilization of selected nutrients (nitrogen, fat, ash, nitrogen-free extracts, starch, gross energy, Ca, P). After the balance tests, blood samples for haematological and biochemical examinations were collected via puncture of the vena basilica. The addition of 2% clinoptilolite to feed mix resulted in a highly significant (P ⪬ 0.01) increase in mean egg weight to 64.69 g, but the addition of 4% clinoptilolite in group E2 resulted in a highly significant (P ⪬ 0.01) decrease in mean egg weight to 62.20 g compared to the control (63.73 g). Moreover, daily feed mix consumption in group E1 decreased to 114 g per one laying hen/day compared to the controls (118 g per one laying hen/day). In group E2 (4% clinoptilolite), daily consumption of feed mix increased compared with the controls to 124 g. The 2% clinoptilolite supplementation of E1 group feed slightly increased metabolic utilization of fat, nitrogen-free extracts, starch and gross energy compared to group C. Results of haematological test of the hens’ blood showed significant changes in haemoglobin, whose values in groups C and E1 were significantly higher (P ⪬ 0.05) than in group E2. Differences in the values of the biochemical indicators monitored (total protein, glucose, cholesterol, triacylglycerols, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and the AST enzyme) between group C and experimental groups E1 and E2 were not significant and remained within the range of reference values.
Time Course Changes in Selected Biochemical Stress Indices in Broilers Exposed to Short-term Noise
Authors: Bedáňová Iveta , Chloupek Petr , Vošmerová Petra , Chloupek Jan , Večerek Vladimír
Published: September 2010

Time course changes in selected biochemical stress indices (corticosterone, triglycerides, glucose, cholesterol) following short-term noise exposure at 100 dB for 28 min were studied in broilers aged 42 days. Corticosterone concentrations were found to increase during the first 10 min of noise exposure and to differ significantly from the control (background sound – 50 dB) at Time 10 min and 14 min, then decreased continually and at 28 min returned to the initial prestress value. Triglyceride concentrations increased in broilers exposed to 100 dB noise during the first 12 min with a significant difference from the control at 12 min and 14 min. Glucose concentrations were higher due to 100 dB noise exposure for almost the entire period monitored, with significant differences between 100 dB and control broilers at 6 min and from 10 min to 14 min. Similarly as for the corticosterone concentration, a drop in triglycerides and glucose concentrations was seen approximately from Time 14 min and a return to the pre-stress value at 28 min. The cholesterol concentrations showed various temporal patterns with no significant difference between 100 dB and control broilers in this experiment. The pattern of response found in the study indicates that 100 dB noise represents a stress factor in broilers, however, there is the ability of broilers to adapt to an increased level of noise at this intensity after the first 14 min of exposure. The findings obtained in the study may contribute to expanding detailed knowledge of physiological stress responses to this specific noise stimulus in poultry, and could thereby be used to improve the welfare of broilers in intensive housing systems.
Effect of Two-step Vitrification on Developmental Competence of in vitro and in vivo Produced Bovine Embryos
Authors: Hlavicová Jaroslava , Lopatářová Miloslava , Čech Svatopluk
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to establish the effect of two-step vitrification on survival rate of bovine embryos produced in vitro (method A) and in vivo (method B) from Holstein-Friesian cattle. The embryos suitable for vitrification were frozen by a two-step technique, using increasing concentrations of dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) and ethylene glycol (EG). After thawing, the quality grade and developmental stage of embryos was assessed. In vitro developmental competence of embryos of different quality grade obtained by method B (n = 82) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to method A (n = 98). The best results were detected when we vitrified the embryos of the grade 1 quality; namely, the hatched blastocyst stage was reached by 6.9% (2/29) of embryos retrieved by method A and by 36.7% (11/30) of embryos retrieved by method B (p < 0.01). In the case of developmental competence of embryos at different developmental stages we reached significantly better results (p < 0.001) when we vitrified the embryos produced by method B (n = 84) in comparison with method A (n = 67). We noted a higher hatching rate at the stage of expanded blastocyst; namely, the hatched blastocyst stage was reached by 7.4% (2/27) of embryos produced by method A and by 30.8% (8/26) of embryos produced by method B (p < 0.05). In general, the hatched blastocyst stage was reached by 15.1% (50/331) of all thawed embryos retrieved by method A and B. In conclusion, when we applied two-step vitrification on the grade 1 quality embryos at the stage of expanded blastocyst produced in vitro or at the stage of morula produced in vivo we achieved the highest hatching rates.
Selected Haematological and Biochemical Indices of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Reared in the Environment with Cyanobacterial Water Bloom
Authors: Palíková Miroslava , Kopp Radovan , Mareš Jan , Navrátil Stanislav , Kubíček Zdenek , Chmelař Lubomír , Banďouchová Hana , Pikula Jiří
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of toxic cyanobacterial water blooms on blood indices in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Experimental fish were exposed to natural cyanobacterial water blooms (consisting mainly of Microcystis aeruginosa and M. ichthyoblabe) which contained microcystins (total concentration 1187 - 1211 μg g-1 of dry weight and 17.4 - 25.4 μg l-1 of water) for 28 days without additional feeding. Control groups of fish were kept in another pond without apparent cyanobacterial bloom formation. Experimental and control rearing ponds had the same water source. After exposure, fish were placed in dechlorinated potable water for the same period. Statistical evaluation of the influence of cyanobacterial water bloom on biochemical indices of experimental fish showed a distinct increase of alkaline phosphatase (p ⪬ 0.05), total bilirubin (p ⪬ 0.001), creatinine (p ⪬ 0.01), lactate (p ⪬ 0.01) and urea (p ⪬ 0.01) when compared to controls. After transfer to the dechlorinated potable water the experimental group showed significantly lower values of phosphorus (p ⪬ 0.001), urea (p ⪬ 0.01) and cholinesterase (p ⪬ 0.05) and higher values of lactate (p ⪬ 0.05) and iron (p ⪬ 0.05) compared to controls. It may be concluded that the exposure of the Nile tilapia to the environment containing cyanobacterial water bloom influenced only some biochemical indices. However, this modulation is to a much lower degree compared to the common carp and silver carp.
Influence of Housing System and Number of Transported Animals on Transport-induced Mortality in Slaughter Pigs
Authors: Voslářová Eva , Chloupek Petr , Steinhauser Ladislav , Havlíček Jan , Večerek Vladimír
Published: September 2010

The study monitored the effect of the housing system and the number of animals transported together on transport-induced mortality of slaughter pigs in the Czech Republic in the period from 2004 to 2008. Concerning the type of housing during the fattening, the lowest mortality rate during the subsequent transport to slaughter houses was detected among pigs fattened on solid floor (0.047%) and on deep bedding (0.084%). The highest mortality during transport was detected among pigs fattened on fully or partially slatted floor (0.139%), a significant difference (p < 0.01) was found compared to other housing types. Assessment of the influence of individual pig load size on mortality showed the lowest mortality among pigs transported in loads of up to 40 animals (0.053%). Mortality during the transport in loads of the size of 41 to 120 animals was 0.130%, and for loads of the size over 120 pigs the mortality rate was 0.156%. These mortality rates are significantly higher (p < 0.01) compared to the load sizes of up to 40 animals.
Application of FT NIR Spectroscopy in the Determination of Basic Physical and Chemical Properties of Sausages
Authors: Procházková Zuzana , Dračková Michaela , Saláková Alena , Gallas Leo , Pospiech Matěj , Vorlová Lenka , Tremlová Bohuslava , Buchtová Hana
Published: September 2010

The objectives of this study were to develop calibration models for determination of water activity and the content of fat, dry matter, salt, non collagen muscle protein and pH in dry cooked sausages. Samples (n = 42) were scanned in FT-NIR Analyzer and simultaneously analyzed by standard methods. The spectra were measured in the reflectance mode with a compressive cell between 10 000 and 4 000 cm-1, averaging 100 scans. Calibration models were developed using the partial least squares (PLS) method. These calibration models were checked later by crossvalidation. The following statistical values were obtained: R (correlation coefficient) = 0.997 and SEC (standard error of calibration) = 0.002 for water activity, R = 0.966 and SEC = 0.023 for pH, R = 0.995 and SEC = 0.970 for dry matter content, R = 0.995 and SEC = 0.045 for salt content, R = 0.965 and SEC = 0.652 for non collagen muscle protein, R = 0.996 and SEC = 0.559 for fat content. The results of the study showed that FT-NIR is a suitable method for rapid analysis of physical and chemical properties of sausages.
Formation of Biogenic Amines in Chicken Meat Stored under Modified Atmosphere
Authors: Gallas Leo , Standarová Eva , Steinhauserová Iva , Steinhauser Ladislav , Vorlová Lenka
Published: September 2010

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of two modified atmospheres with a different combination of gases on selected groups of microorganisms and on concentrations of biogenic amines (BAs) in samples of poultry breast muscle. The samples were packaged under modified atmosphere A (75% O2 a 25% CO2) or B (75% N2 and 25% CO2) and stored at temperatures from +2 to +4 °C for 14 days. During the storage period, O2 concentrations in modified atmosphere A (MA A) decreased from the initial 74.8 ± 0.3% to 55.9 ± 6.6% at the end of the storage period. In all samples, counts of psychrotrophic bacteria counts, Brochothrix thermosphacta, lactic acid bacteria and coliform microorganism were determined. The tests were made on the packaging day, and then after three, nine and fourteen days of storage. At the end of the storage period, higher numbers of psychrotrophic bacteria (6.5 ± 0.7 log10 cfu g-1), Brochothrix thermosphacta (4.8 ± 0.3 log10 cfu g-1) and lactic acid bacteria (1.7 ± 0.4 log10 cfu g-1) were found on samples packaged under MA A. Samples packaged under modified atmosphere B on the other hand contained higher numbers of coliform bacteria (4.1 ± 0.6 log10 cfu g-1) at the end of the storage period. In addition to microbiological indicators, concentrations of biogenic amines (putrescine, cadaverine, histamine, tyramine, spermine, spermidine and β-phenylethylamine) were also determined. In fresh samples and after three days of storage, only spermine and spermidine were found. After 9 and 14 days, also other BAs were detected. The biogenic amine totals at the end of the storage period was 60.0 ± 13.2 mg kg-1 in samples packaged under MA A and 129.0 ± 41.3 mg kg-1 in samples packaged under MA B. The most abundantly represented biogenic amines in samples packaged under MA A were putrescine and spermine (49.7 and 24.8%, respectively, at the end of the storage period), and putrescine and cadaverine in samples packaged under MA B (47.0 and 32.9 %, respectively, at the end of the storage period).
Shelf-life of Chilled Muscle Tissue of the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) Packaged in Carbon Monoxide Enriched Modified Atmosphere
Authors: Ježek František , Buchtová Hana
Published: September 2010

The aim was to study the effects of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) consisting of 69% N2, 25% CO2, 5% O2 and 1% CO on sensory and chemical indicators (O2 in MAP, pH, lipids, total volatile basic nitrogen TVBN, nitrogen-trimethylamine N-TMA, free fatty acids FFA, peroxides PV, malondialdehyde MDA) of carp (Cyprinus carpio, L.) fillets and compare them with fillets in simple packaging (control group). A total of 24 carp of 2.17 ± 0.29 kg mean live weight were analyzed. The control fillets were analyzed on days 1, 2, 4, 7, 9 and 11. Fillets in MAP were analyzed on days 1, 4, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16 and 18. Fillets in MAP were pink red and the colour was stable (a carboxy-myoglobin complex), the control fillets were lighter with discolorations (from day 4). A change in the smell and consistency of fillets was observed starting on day 9 (MAP) and 4 (controls). Levels of pH in both types of samples fluctuated and no conclusive results were obtained. TVBN and N-TMA concentrations increased consistently upon fish aging. FFA concentrations on day 1 of monitoring were higher (p < 0.01) in MAP samples compared to the controls. Later, the production of these degradation products in the two types of packaging differed. MDA concentrations in MAP samples were lower (p < 0.01) throughout the experiment. MDA may be another suitable indicator for the determination of the intensity of fat oxidation.
The Intrusion of the Discourse of Economics Into the Clinical Space II: From Excellence to Outcomes
Authors: Plastow Michael
Published: September 2010

Objective: There has been a recent dissemination of the term ‘excellence’ in psychiatric services without a full appreciation of the origins of its contemporary usage. In recent years, we have also been witness to an increasing emphasis on the language and notions of goals and outcomes in clinical practice, particularly in the public sector. This paper examines the origin and prevalence of the term excellence in both commercial and clinical services and the corresponding preoccupation with strategies and outcomes.

Conclusions: It is argued that the contemporary talk of ‘excellence’ has been directly imported from the commercial sector. A closer examination of the ascendency of the use of this term has not been borne out by the results of the companies purported to be ‘excellent’. In a similar vein, the political and corporate talk of strategies and outcomes has been transferred onto the clinical field. Such a movement has occurred primarily through political and financial motivations. A model of outcome-driven treatment is examined as an end result of such a preoccupation with outcomes.
The Intrusion of the Discourse of Economics Into the Clinical Space III: Economic Rationalism and Clinical Effects
Authors: Plastow Michael
Published: September 2010

Objective: Language has always been a means of imposing political and economic dominance. The ascendancy of the discourse of economics is examined in the context of economic rationalism. Some of the effects of this discourse, both upon our services, as well as upon different modes of conceptualizing the therapeutic relationship, will be examined in this paper.

Conclusions: The intensification of the use of terms from economics and management can be dated from the introduction of neo-liberal policies in our Western democracies, but the economic discourse circulates with a life of its own. The use of the language of economics and management has spread generally through our society. Thus, if the economic discourse is the language utilized by some clinicians, it is also to some degree the language adopted by our patients. It is proposed that the extension of the economic discourse into the clinical field is re-shaping the therapeutic relationship with our patients.
Suicide By Couples From the Public Record
Authors: Pridmore Saxby , Reddy Anil
Published: September 2010

Objective: The aim of this paper was to examine accounts on the public record of suicide by couples, with a view to extending our clinical understanding of such events.

Method: A collection of print reports was examined and a web search was conducted. Cases were generally only accepted when the names, ages, locations and method of death of the individuals were provided, along with sufficient detail to convey the rudiments of the social and physical setting. Cases were then arranged into groups and classified using a typology of suicide.

Results: Twelve cases were identified which provide valuable insights into the lives of couples who suicide. We found 11 married female-male couples and one female-female couple. A large group (seven couples) was characterized by severe or terminal illness in one or both partners. A small group (three couples) was characterized by serious legal problems. One couple was grieving the loss of an only child, and one example involved a psychotic individual, folie a deux and consequent social stressors. The terminal illness group, the legal difficulties group and the bereaved couple could be classified as ‘Type 3 suicide’ according to the first author's suicide classification. The case involving the psychotic individual and consequent social stressors could be classified as a combination of Type 1 and Type 3 suicide.

Conclusion: Reports on the public record of suicide by couples provide valuable insights into the lives of participants, and their suicides could be grouped (terminal illness, legal difficulties, other) and classified using a typology.