bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical Profiles of Wave-Coherent Momentum Flux and Velocity Variances in the Marine Atmospheric Boundary Layer
Authors: Wu Lichuan , Hristov Tihomir , Rutgersson Anna
Published: January 2018

The wave-coherent momentum flux and velocity variances are investigated using a theoretical model and open-ocean measurements. The spectrum-integrated wave-coherent (SIWC) momentum flux and velocity variances decay roughly exponentially with height. The exponential decay coefficients of the SIWC momentum flux and velocity variances decrease with increasing peak wavenumber. The phases of the wave-coherent horizontal (vertical) velocity fluctuations are approximately 180° (90°) under waves with wind-wave angle |α1| < 90°. In general, the ratio of the SIWC momentum flux to the total momentum flux under swell conditions is higher than that under wind-wave conditions at the same height. At a height of 9.9 m, the SIWC vertical (horizontal) velocity variances can exceed 30% (10%) of the total vertical (horizontal) velocity variances at high wave ages. The impact of SIWC momentum flux on wind profiles is determined mainly by the surface SIWC momentum flux ratio, the decay coefficient of the SIWC momentum flux, and the sea surface roughness length, with the first two factors being dominant. The results of this study suggest a methodology for parameterizing the SIWC momentum flux and the total momentum flux over the ocean. These results are important for simulating the marine atmospheric boundary layer and should be used in model development.
Blended Probabilistic Tornado Forecasts: Combining Climatological Frequencies with NSSL–WRF Ensemble Forecasts
Authors: Gallo Burkely T. , Clark Adam J. , Smith Bryan T. , Thompson Richard L. , Jirak Israel , Dembek Scott R.
Published: January 2018

Attempts at probabilistic tornado forecasting using convection-allowing models (CAMs) have thus far used CAM attribute [e.g., hourly maximum 2–5-km updraft helicity (UH)] thresholds, treating them as binary events—either a grid point exceeds a given threshold or it does not. This study approaches these attributes probabilistically, using empirical observations of storm environment attributes and the subsequent climatological tornado occurrence frequency to assign a probability that a point will be within 40 km of a tornado, given the model-derived storm environment attributes. Combining empirical frequencies and forecast attributes produces better forecasts than solely using mid- or low-level UH, even if the UH is filtered using environmental parameter thresholds. Empirical tornado frequencies were derived using severe right-moving supercellular storms associated with a local storm report (LSR) of a tornado, severe wind, or severe hail for a given significant tornado parameter (STP) value from Storm Prediction Center (SPC) mesoanalysis grids in 2014–15. The NSSL–WRF ensemble produced the forecast STP values and simulated right-moving supercells, which were identified using a UH exceedance threshold. Model-derived probabilities are verified using tornado segment data from just right-moving supercells and from all tornadoes, as are the SPC-issued 0600 UTC tornado probabilities from the initial day 1 forecast valid 1200–1159 UTC the following day. The STP-based probabilistic forecasts perform comparably to SPC tornado probability forecasts in many skill metrics (e.g., reliability) and thus could be used as first-guess forecasts. Comparison with prior methodologies shows that probabilistic environmental information improves CAM-based tornado forecasts.
The everyday lives of older adults with visual impairment: An occupational perspective
Authors: Nastasi Julie Ann
Published: January 2018

Introduction

In order to live in a world created for the sighted, older adults with visual impairment must adapt to complete vision-dependent activities that require reading, writing, and object identification. The objective of this study was to explore the occupational lives of three older adults with visual impairment.

Method

A qualitative study with four interviews each and two observation sessions each was conducted with older adults with visual impairment. Data were analyzed by participant and across participants using open, axial, and selective coding. Codes were refined throughout the process yielding the themes of the study.

Results

Three themes emerged from the analysis: an occupational life of doing, an occupational life rich with well-being, and an occupational life filled with motivation for independence. Participants were highly motivated to complete their occupations and activities independently. Participation in activities in the home and community environments provided participants with life satisfaction and happiness. Through problem-solving skills, adaptations, and support of family and friends, participants successfully completed their desired occupations.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of motivation and support to facilitate participation in occupations in the home and community environments.
Racial differences in dietary antioxidant intake and cardiac event-free survival in patients with heart failure
Authors: Wu Jia-Rong , Song Eun Kyeung , Moser Debra K , Lennie Terry A
Published: January 2018

Background:

Heart failure is a chronic, burdensome condition with higher re-hospitalization rates in African Americans than Whites. Higher dietary antioxidant intake is associated with lower oxidative stress and improved endothelial function. Lower dietary antioxidant intake in African Americans may play a role in the re-hospitalization disparity between African American and White patients with heart failure.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to examine the associations among race, dietary antioxidant intake, and cardiac event-free survival in patients with heart failure.

Methods:

In a secondary analysis of 247 patients with heart failure who completed a four-day food diary, intake of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, vitamins C and E, zinc, and selenium were assessed. Antioxidant deficiency was defined as intake below the estimated average requirement for antioxidants with an established estimated average requirement, or lower than the sample median for antioxidants without an established estimated average requirement. Patients were followed for a median of one year to determine time to first cardiac event (hospitalization or death). Survival analysis was used for data analysis.

Results:

African American patients had more dietary antioxidant deficiencies and a shorter cardiac event-free survival compared with Whites ( p = .007 and p = .028, respectively). In Cox regression, race and antioxidant deficiency were associated with cardiac event-free survival before and after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusion:

African Americans with heart failure had more dietary antioxidant deficiencies and shorter cardiac event-free survival than Whites. This suggests that encouraging African American patients with heart failure to consume an antioxidant-rich diet may be beneficial in lengthening cardiac event-free survival.
Security–reliability tradeoff analysis of untrusted energy harvesting relay networks
Authors: Chen Dechuan , Yang Weiwei , Hu Jianwei , Mou Weifeng , Cai Yueming
Published: January 2018

We investigate secure communications in untrusted energy harvesting relay networks, where the amplify-and-forward relay is an energy constrained node powered by the received radio frequency signals, and try to unauthorizedly decode the confidential information from the source. The secrecy outage probability and connection outage probability are respectively derived in closed-form to evaluate the security and reliability for three energy harvesting strategies, for example, time switching relaying strategy, power splitting relaying strategy, and ideal relaying receiver strategy. Subsequently, the effective secrecy throughput is conducted to characterize the overall efficiency, and the asymptotic analysis of the secrecy throughput is given to determine the optimal energy harvesting strategies in different operating regimes. Furthermore, in order to achieve the optimal effective secrecy throughput performance, a switching threshold between time switching relaying and power splitting relaying is designed. Numerical results verify the accuracy of the analytical expressions and reveal that the effective secrecy throughput of the system can be effectively promoted by the threshold switching energy harvesting strategy.
An Evaluation of the National Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Policy at the University of Namibia in the Faculty of Education
Authors: Isaacs Albert , Kazembe Lawrence , Kazondovi Collins
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this evaluation study was to determine the extent to which the teacher educators in the Faculty of Education at the University of Namibia implemented the national Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Policy for Education. This study employed both the quantitative method in the form of questionnaires and the qualitative method in the form of interviews and classroom observations. From the 100 participants surveyed, there were 73 respondents indicating a 73 per cent response rate to the questionnaire. The data were analysed by using the Likert Scale, Pearson-Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, Eigenvalue: Factor Analysis and Eigenvalue: Cluster. A purposive sampling was then conducted on the teacher educators at University of Namibia campus who were tasked to teach with ICTs. These teacher educators were interviewed and classroom observations were conducted. The findings of the study indicated that the participants had a good understanding of the national ICT Policy for Education. A majority of the teacher educators indicated that they were at the beginning level of using ICTs for teaching. They mainly used word processors and presentation tools for the purpose. However, the findings further indicated that the respondents lacked training in ICT pedagogy, lacked the time to learn and incorporate ICT skills and tools into lessons, and exposed insufficient budget allocation in place for procurement of ICT tools such as hardware and software.
Growth differentiation factor-15 is a new biomarker for survival and renal outcomes in light chain amyloidosis
Authors: Kastritis Efstathios , Papassotiriou Ioannis , Merlini Giampaolo , Milani Paolo , Terpos Evangelos , Basset Marco , Akalestos Athanasios , Russo Francesca , Psimenou Erasmia , Apostolakou Filia , Roussou Maria , Gavriatopoulou Maria , Eleutherakis-Papaiakovou Evangelos , Fotiou Despina , Ziogas Dimitrios C. , Papadopoulou Elektra , Pamboucas Constantinos , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Palladini Giovanni
Published: January 2018

Key Points

GDF-15 level is a new prognostic factor for survival in AL amyloidosis, and its reduction after therapy is associated with better outcome. GDF-15 level is probably the strongest predictor for renal outcomes in patients with AL amyloidosis.
Risk of Synchronous Distant Recurrence at Time of Locoregional Recurrence in Patients With Stage II and III Breast Cancer (AFT-01)
Authors: Neuman Heather B. , Schumacher Jessica R. , Francescatti Amanda B. , Adesoye Taiwo , Edge Stephen B. , Vanness David J. , Yu Menggang , McKellar Daniel , Winchester David P. , Greenberg Caprice C. ,   for the Alliance/American College of Surgeons Clinical Research Program Cancer Care Delivery Research Breast Cancer Surveillance Working Group
Published: January 2018

Purpose

National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend systemic staging imaging at the time of locoregional breast cancer recurrence. Limited data support this recommendation. We determined the rate of synchronous distant recurrence at the time of locoregional recurrence in high-risk patients and identified clinical factors associated with an increased risk of synchronous metastases.

Methods

A stage-stratified random sample of 11,046 patients with stage II to III breast cancer in 2006 to 2007 was selected from the National Cancer Database for participation in a Commission on Cancer special study. From medical record abstraction of imaging and recurrence data, we identified patients who experienced locoregional recurrence within 5 years of diagnosis. Synchronous distant metastases (within 30 days of locoregional recurrence) were determined. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with synchronous metastases.

Results

Four percent experienced locoregional recurrence (n = 445). Synchronous distant metastases were identified in 27% (n = 120). Initial presenting stage ( P = .03), locoregional recurrence type ( P = .01), and insurance status ( P = .03) were associated with synchronous distant metastases. The proportion of synchronous metastases was highest for women with lymph node (35%), postmastectomy chest wall (30%), and in-breast (15%) recurrence; 54% received systemic staging imaging within 30 days of a locoregional recurrence.

Conclusion

These findings support current recommendations for systemic imaging in the setting of locoregional recurrence, particularly for patients with lymph node or chest wall recurrences. Because most patients with isolated locoregional recurrence will be recommended locoregional treatment, early identification of distant metastases through routine systemic imaging may spare them treatments unlikely to extend their survival.
Caminhos para a inclusão financeira
Authors: Gonzalez Farias Lauro Emilio
Published: January 2018

Novas tecnologias trazem a promessa de modelos inovadores para a expansão do microcrédito no Brasil.
Os modelos de negócios do futuro
Authors: Greer Jimmy
Published: January 2018

Um guia para monitorar e aproveitar os novos tipos de valor que estão sendo criados.
Um retrato dos fundos de investimento no Brasil
Authors: Milan Pedro Luiz Albertin Bono , Eid Júnior William
Published: January 2018

Apesar do crescimento da indústria de fundos de investimento e da queda das taxas de administração, ainda há desafios, como mostrar ao investidor que liquidez imediata significa retornos menores.
Desconfie das suas decisões financeiras
Authors: Dana Samy
Published: January 2018

Histórias de impacto, convicções excessivas, e comportamento de manada podem ser desastrosos para o bolso.
Lembranças do futuro
Authors: Teixeira Marco Antonio Carvalho
Published: January 2018

Se, por um lado, foi a política de vantagens pessoais que nos levou a esse mal-estar; por outro, a saída só pode estar na própria política.
Um outro país
Authors: Wilner Adriana , Santos Aline Lilian dos
Published: January 2018

Vamos ter de usar os recursos disponíveis no país de forma diferente da que Acontece hoje, em que corporações se apoderam e fazem uma alocação desigual deles.
Empreendedorismo sustentável
Authors: Ebert Marcelo
Published: January 2018

O consumidor está cada vez mais propenso a escolher produtos e serviços com propósito socioambiental. O desafio é colocar algo novo e consistente no mercado, mas que também tenha melhor qualidade, preço e/ou facilidade de acesso.
Pés no chão
Authors: Pinto Daniela Gomes , Pagotto Lívia Menezes
Published: January 2018

A governança territorial vem ganhando força ao gerar oportunidades para o desenvolvimento local no contexto da instalação de grandes obras no país e no mundo.
Pequenas que vão longe
Authors: Branco Paulo Durval
Published: January 2018

Os desafios globais da sustentabilidade estão moldando os negócios internacionais. Para algumas empresas, isso representa barreiras. Para outras, especialmente as micro e pequenas, pode ser fonte de grandes oportunidades.
Pegada social
Authors: Brito Renata Peregrino de
Published: January 2018

As cadeias de suprimento globais trazem como desafios assegurar o respeito aos Direitos Humanos e monitorar os impactos em todos os elos envolvidos.
Application of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in parasitology
Authors: TRIVIZAKI (Σ. ΤΡΙΒΙΖΑΚΗ) S. , THEODOROPOULOS (Γ. ΘΕΟΔΩΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) G.
Published: January 2018

The method of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is applied for parasite identification, for studying genetic diversity between phylums, families and species of parasites, as well as for the diagnosis and epidemiological study of parasitic diseases. The biggest advantage of PCR is its higher sensitivity in comparison to other classical indirect diagnostic methods.
Hematologic changes in experimentally induced feline steatitis: A comparative study between the Domestic shorthair and Siamese breed
Authors: KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , FYTIANOU (Α. ΦΥΤΙΑΝΟΥ) A. , KRITSEPI (Μ. ΚΡΙΤΣΕΠΗ) M. , MYLONAKIS (Μ.Μ. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. M.
Published: January 2018

In order to study the hematological abnormalities in feline steatitis 10 Domestic shorthair (DSH) and 10 Siamese 2 to 3 month-old kittens were used to whom cooked sardines supplemented with minerals and vitamins, except vitamin E, were given for 4 consecutive months (experimental groups). An equal number of age and sex matched kittens for each breed that were being fed a commercial canned cat food based on oily fish and for the same period of time served as controls. Blood samples were taken at 0 time and at 15-day intervals thereafter for a CBC. Red and white blood cell morphology was also studied. Steatitis was reproduced in all the 20 kittens of the experimental groups. Five DSH kittens developed the clinical and 5 the subclinical form of the disease. The relevant figures for the affected Siamese kittens were 6 and 4, respectively. The clinical disease was significantly more severe in the DSH breed only at the very beginning of the experimental period (time 1). None of the controls belonging to both breeds developed clinical signs or lesions associated with steatitis. Low PCV(<25%) and decreased Hb concentration (<8 g/100ml) indicating anemia, and appearing as early as time 1, in the experimental groups were significantly more severe in the Siamese than in the DSH breed. Evidently the anemia was non-regenerative attributable to chronic inflammatory nature of steatitis. In most of the observation times significant neutrophilic leucocytosis was detected only in the experimental groups; a regenerative left shift was seen in approximatery 50% of all the cases with neutrophilia. Eosinophilia and monocytosis were of minor significance for both breeds. No erythrocyte and leucocyte morphological abnormalities were seen in the DSH or the Siamese experimental groups all over the experimental period.
Helminths parasites of digestive trackt of sheep and goats in Macedonian region
Authors: THEODORIDIS (Ι. ΘΕΟΔΩΡΙΔΗΣ) Y. , HIMONAS (Χ. ΧΕΙΜΩΝΑΣ) C. , PAPAZAHARIADOU (Μ. ΠΑΠΑΖΑΧΑΡΙΑΔΟΥ) M.
Published: January 2018

During two periods (December 1985-October 1986 and October 1990-April 1991), the digestive tracts of 102 sheep and 29 goats were examined, with the purpose to find out and identify the helminthes parasites of these animals. The 96,1% of sheep and 93,1% of goats were found to be infected with 26 and 20 different helminths, respectively. The nematodes which were found out of the different parts of the digestive tract of these animals were: Sheep: oesophagus: Gongylonema pulchrum, abomasum: Haemonchus contortus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, T. trifurcata, Trichostrongylus axei and Cooperia oncophora, small intestine: Teladorsagia circumcincta, Trichostrongylus colubriformis} T. vitrinus, T. capricola, Cooperia oncophora, C. curticei, Nematodirus filicollis, N. helvetianus, N. spathiger, N. battus, Bunostomum trigonocephalum and Strongyloides papillosus, large intestine: Oesophagostomum venulosum, Oe. columbianum, Chabertia ovina, Trichuris globulosa, T. ovis and Skrjabinema ovis. Goats: all the previous findings except T. vitrinus, Nematodirus helvetianus, N. battus and Trichuris ovis. The cestodes parasites, Moniezia expansa, Moniezia benedni, Avitellina centripunctata and Stilesia globipunctata were found into the small intestine of sheep and, Moniezia expansa and Avitellina centripunctata, in goats only. All animals were infected with more than one different parasites. The sheep nematodes Cooperia curticei, Nematodirus helvetianus, and N. spathiger, were identified for the first time in Greece, more over, Nematodirus battus were found out and identified for the first time in Greece.
Some physicochemical characteristics of cotton and citrus Greek honeys
Authors: BACANDRILSOS (Ν. ΜΠΑΚΑΝΔΡΙΤΣΟΣ) N. , PAPADOPOULOU (Π. ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) P. , VAVOULIDOU (Ε. ΒΑΒΟΥΛΙΔΟΥ) F. , TSIROYIANNIS (Β. ΤΣΙΡΟΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ) V.
Published: January 2018

Water content, pH, acidity, reducing sugars, apparent sucrose, hydroxymethyfurfural (HMF) content and diastase activity of cotton and orange honeys from different places of Greece have been measured. Samples in all the measured characteristics have been found to comply with the limits given by the E.U. Directive 74/409. These values were in agreement with those reported by other Greek researchers. Statistical analysis of the sample means of the physicochemical data showed that the two types of honey differ statistically in all the characteristics except that of apparent sucrose in which no significance was observed in the 0.05 level.
Epizootic study of IBD in chickens during the years 1990-1998 in North Greece
Authors: BOUGIOUKLIS (Π. ΜΠΟΥΠΟΥΚΛΗΣ) P. , GEORGOPOULOU (Ι. ΓΕΩΡΓΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) I. , IORDANIDIS (Π. ΙΟΡΔΑΝΙΔΗΣ) P.
Published: January 2018

This report concerns an epizootic study of IBD in chickens reared in North Greece, during the years 1990-1998. The frequency of IBD was determined according to year, month and productive direction. The clinical cases were studied from the Clinic of Poultry Diseases (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki) during the years 1990-1998. An increase of IBD cases was determined in 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996 and 1997. Also, an increase of IBD cases was observed during the Spring and Summer months. A higher frequency of IBD was observed on broilers.
Effect of lambing season on the productivity of ewes of the Karagouniko breed.
Authors: DELIGIANNIS (Κ. ΔΕΛΗΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ) K. , LAINAS (Θ. ΛΑΪΝΑΣ) Th.
Published: January 2018

Karagouniko breed and of known production history, kept under semi-intensive system, were used to study the effect of lambing season on their productivity. The ewes were divided into three groups according to lambing season: Group A (n = 56) with ewes lambed in late October, Group Β (n = 50) with ewes lambed in late November and Group C (n = 60) with ewes lambed in late December. Changes of body reserves of the ewes during lactation were normal with the ewes which suckled twins showing the greatest change in early lactation (P< 0.001). During the milking period the greatest change was found in the ewes that lambed late and, particularly, in those which suckled twins (P<0.05 - Ρ < 0.001). Early lambed ewes which suckled twins had significant longer lactation period and milk production than the late lambed ewes which suckled single lambs (P<0.05 - P<0.001). Birth weight of lambs was not affected by season of lambing; it was only affected by sex, with male Iambs being heavier than female lambs (P<0.001). However, growth of lambs during the suckling period was significantly affected by season of lambing with the early born single male lambs being heavier than those born late (P< 0.001). It is concluded that lambing season significantly affects the productivity of the ewes.
Investigation of the incidence of Salmonella spp. in the diarrhoeic syndrome of young ruminants
Authors: ZDRAGAS (Α. ΖΔΡΑΓΚΑΣ) A. , PETSAGA-TSIMPERI (Β. ΠΕΤΣΑΓΚΑ-ΤΣΙΜΠΕΡΗ) V. , TSAKOS (Π. ΤΣΑΚΟΣ) P.
Published: January 2018

The presence of Salmonella spp. in the diarrhoeic syndrome of 24 cases of calves, 36 cases of kids and 14 cases of lambs was investigated. Salmonella was isolated as the pathogenic agent from six herds of calves and four cases of kids. The identified species was Salmonella enteritidis in three herds of calves and two cases of kids. Salmonella typhimurium was identified in two herds of calves and one case of kids. Also, Salmonella abony and Salmonella cerro were identified in one case of calves and kids, respectively. Furthermore, Shigella hyodysenteriae was isolated from two cases of diarrhoeic syndrome in lambs. All the infected animals were characterized by persistent haemorrhagic diarrhoea and high mortality. The occurrence of Salmonella enteritidis in ruminants is probably an important point of the epidemiology of Salmonella spp. and may play a significant role in the public health.
Effect of the dietary inclusion of the growth promoter avoparcin on the performance and carcass characteristics of growing goat kids
Authors: BABIDIS (Β. Μ. ΜΠΑΜΠΙΔΗΣ) V. A. , FLOROU-PANERI (Π. ΦΛΩΡΟΥ-ΠΑΝΕΡΗ) P. , KUFIDIS (Δ. ΚΟΥΦΙΔΗΣ) D. , SPAIS (A.B. ΣΠΑΗΣ) A. B.
Published: January 2018

A trial was conducted with 32 indigenous goat kids (Capra prisca) 8,5 weeks old to examine the effectiveness of dietary avoparcin as growth promoting factor. The kids were randomly allocated into two groups (control- and avoparcin group with initial mean body weight of 11,61 ±1,16 kg and 11,57±1,47 kg, respectively) comprising of 16 kids (8 male and 8 female) each. For a period of 12 weeks, kids in the control group were given lucerne (alfalfa) hay (mean daily consumption 170 g/head) and an appropriate compound diet (given ad libitum), while kids in the avoparcin group were fed the same diet except that the compound diet was supplemented with avoparcin (20 mg/kg). Avoparcin supplementation significantly (P<0.05) improved final mean body weight by 10.57% (19.24 ± 2.33 kg vs. 17.40 ± 2.30 kg), body weight gain (BWG) by 32.30% (7.66 ± 1.42 kg vs. 5.79 ± 1.74 kg), mean daily feed consumption in dry matter basis (DM) by 14.24% (551.80 ± 31.60 g DM vs. 483.02 ± 28.94 g DM), feed conversion ratio by 13.62% (6.09 ± 0.47 kg DM consumption/kg BWG vs. 7.05 ± 0.56 kg DM consumption/kg BWG) and carcass weight by 14.86% (11.44 ± 1.48 kg vs. 9.96 ± 1.76 kg). Moreover, no significant differences (P>0.05) were noticed neither in carcass yield and carcass chemical composition nor in percentages of small intestine-, major omentum-, lung-,heart-, liver- and spleen weight in the body weight.
Development of a radioimmunoassay (RIA) method for the isolation, determination and quantification of stilbene residues (DES, DIEN, HEX) in tissues
Authors: TYRPENOU (Α.Ε.ΤΥΡΠΕΝΟΥ) A. Ε.
Published: January 2018

An accurate, reliable and reproducible radioimmunoassay (RIA) method was developed and evaluated for the isolation, determination and quantification of stilbenes (DEX, DIEN and HEX) in animal tissue. The radioimmunoassay principle, the production of the antiserum, the optimum dilution for binding at 50% and the cross reactivity determination are described. Also, the calculations for the construction of the standard calibration curve and several other specific steps of RIA are included. DES antiserum was raised in rabbits and under the assay conditions its optimum dilution was found to be 1:4000 and the sensitivity of the assay 10 pg/tube. The DES antiserum produced was very specific, with a crossreactivity for oestradiol <0,01% and for hoexestrol less than 9,6%. However, problems were encountered with regard to nonspecific adsorption by charcoal (charcoal blank) during RIA and the reproducibility of the standard curves were overcome by having standards and the assay samples in 20% methanolic: phosphate buffered saline (MeOH:PBS 20%). The recovery of the cleanup step was more than 90% and the recovery of the method was ranged between 65 and 75%. This method has been developed for the analysis of stilbene residues in veal and chicken meat tissue and it is suggested as a basic procedure for the development of other RIA methods for hormone residue determination in food producing animals.
Production of transgenic sheep: Microinjection of the bovine P77 gene construct in Chios sheep breed zygotes
Authors: VAINAS (Ε. ΒΑΪΝΑΣ) E. , BESENFELDER U. , CHRISTODOULOU (B. ΧΡΙΣΤΟΔΟΥΛΟΥ) V. , KUEHHOLZER B. , AMIRIDIS (Γ.Σ. ΑΜΟΙΡΙΔΗΣ) G. C. , BELIBASAKI (Σ. ΜΠΕΛΙΜΠΑΣΑΚΗ) S. , BREM G.
Published: January 2018

The feasibility of integration of the bovine P77 construct into zygotes and two cell embryos of Chios sheep breed was examined. The P77 gene construct comprised bovine as l casein promoter regulatory sequence fused to the fragment between exons 2 and 9 of the bovine chymosin gene. One of the two pronuclei of the zygote or a nucleus of a blastomere of a two cell embryo was microinjected with 1 pi of DNA solution containing approximately 1000 copies of the gene construct. In total 193 zygotes and 87 two cell embryos collected from 49 donor ewes were used. After 1 - 5 h culture microinjected zygotes (n=175) and two cell embryos (n=76) were transferred by a laparoscopic technique to the oviducts of 68 recipients. 22 recipients (32.4%) gave birth to 29 lambs which correspond to 11.6% of the total number of zygotes - embryos transferred. PCR analysis performed in skin samples of these lambs revealed that in one ewe lamb the P77 construct has been integrated in its genome. The growth and puberty of this lamb was physiological and is currently pregnant. This is the first transgenic farm animal born in Greece.
Effect of anthelmintics upon host organism
Authors: THEODORIDIS (Ι. ΘΕΟΔΩΡΙΔΗΣ) Y. , FRYDAS (Σ. ΦΡΥΔΑΣ) S. , RIZOS (Η. ΡΙΖΟΣ) E.
Published: January 2018

To be estimated the effects of anthelmintics to the host, 21 female sheep of various age, breed and weight, which were naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes, were used. These animals were divided into three groups and given per os: in the 1st group, which was composed of 7 sheep, Morantel citrate (tetrahydropyrimidine group) approx. 465 mg/b.w., in the 2nd, which was composed of 8 sheep, Albendazole (benzimidazole group) approx. 300 mg/b.w. and in the 3rd, which was composed of 6 sheep, tap water only and this group was used as control. From these animals, blood samples intrajagularly were taken, at the same day, once a week for 9 continuous weeks. The first blood sample was taken 4 weeks before the anthelmintic therapy and the last one 5 weeks after therapy. There were no significance diferences (p> 0,005) in pre- and posttherapy measurements, regarding the PCV,s in all groups. In the control and morantel citrate groups, the leucocyte volume remained static, while contrarily, in the albendazole group a significance difference (p< 0,005) were observed. Because, the albendazole inhibits the construction of intestine cell microtubules of parasites, it can be concluded that, this activity, effects the host cells, and thus, this reduction of leucocytes was observed.
Serum progesterone and oestrone sulphate concetrations for monitoring fertility in Sows
Authors: STEFANAKIS (Α. ΣΤΕΦΑΝΑΚΗΣ) A. , BOSCOS (Κ. Μ. ΜΠΟΣΚΟΣ) C. M. , ALEXOPOULOS (Κ. ΑΛΕΞΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) C. , KYRIAKIS (Σ.Κ. ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗΣ) S. C. , KRAMBOVITIS (Η. ΚΡΑΜΠΟΒΙΤΗΣ) E.
Published: January 2018

Blood samples were taken from 161 sows the days 19-21 (serum progesterone assessments), from 306 sows on days 24-30 (serum oestrone sulphate assessments) and from 150 sows on day 20 (serum progesterone assessments) and on days 26-29 (serum oestrone sulphate assessments) after service. Actual farrowing or abortion and signs of return to oestrus were used as criteria for pregnancy and non-pregnancy, respectively. Litter size was also recorded at each farrowing. The results showed that the overall accuracy of progesterone and oestrone sulphate for predicting pregnant sows was 90.7% and 97.2%, respectively. The highest accuracy of oestrone sulphate (100%) was noticed on days 27 and 28 after service. The overrall accuracy of the combination of both progesterone and oestrone sulphate assessments to detect pregnant sows was 97% and to detect non-pregnant sows was 100%. Significant correlation coefficients between serum oestrone sulphate concentration and litter size were found on days 24,26,27, 28,29 and 30, but the highest correlation coefficient was noticed on day 28 after service (r=0.51, Ρ, 0.001). Moreover, it was also found that mean litter size was significantly higher (P <0.05). in sows with serum oestrone sulphate concentrations > 1 ng/ml compared with concentrations < 1 ng/ml from day 26 up to day 30 after service. It is concluded that serum progesterone assessment helps in the determination of the non-pregnant sows early enough for problems related to failure of fertilization to be promptly dealt with. Serum oestrone sulphate concentration on day 28 after service can be used as an indicator of conception, as a predictor of small litter size and also can help in the estimation of embryonic mortality. The combination of these two assessments, in addition to their value in pregnancy diagnosis, can be useful in identifying concurrent reproductive problems in units with sub-optimal productivity.
Field evaluation of a live vaccine against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome in fattening pigs
Authors: MAVROMATIS (Ι. ΜΑΥΡΟΜΜΑΤΗΣ) J. , KRITAS (Σ.Κ. ΚΡΗΤΑΣ) S. K. , ALEXOPOULOS (Κ. ΑΛΕΞΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) C. , TSINAS (Α. ΤΣΙΝΑΣ) A. , KYRIAKIS (Σ.K. ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗΣ) S. C.
Published: January 2018

In this study, a live vaccine based on an European isolate of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (Porcilis PRRS, Intervet) virus has been tested in order to determine the protection of fattening pigs against the respiratory form of the syndrome under field conditions. Ten thousand pigs in an infected farm were vaccinated against PRRS virus at the age of 6 weeks and were compared to non-vaccinated pigs with respect to their health status, mortality, performance parameters (average daily gain, average daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio) and the presence of specific pathogens in their lungs. The results have shown that treated pigs became less frequently sick and have demonstrated reduced mortality compared to untreated ones. As compared to non-vaccinated animals, PRRSvaccinated pigs also performed in a better way with respect to feed conversion ratio (P<0.05) and average daily gain (P<0.05), while feed intake was similar for both groups (P>0.05). Bacteriological examinations of the lungs have revealed increased incidence of respiratory bacterial infection in untreated pigs compared to treated ones. Also a tendency for faster antibody response was detected in the vaccinées. Finally, no clinical side effects were observed after the administration of the vaccine. The results of the present study show that immunization with Porcilis PRRS (Intervet) does protect fattening pigs against the respiratory manifestations of PRRS.
The parasites of ostriches
Authors: THEODOROPOULOS (Γ. ΘΕΟΔΩΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) G.
Published: January 2018

Ostrich production is a new type of venture activity which has appeared in Greece recently. The objective of this paper is to present the parasites which have been found to parasitize ostriches and related species of birds, as well as to present an update of what we know today about their pathogenicity and measures of control.
Resistance test of avian salmonella strains in antibacterial drugs
Authors: IORDANIDIS (Π. ΙΟΡΔΑΝΙΔΗΣ) P. , GEORGOPOULOU (Ι. ΓΕΩΡΓΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) I.
Published: January 2018

In the present paper in vitro resistance of 241 salmonella isolates to 9 antibacterial drugs was studied. Salmonella strains were isolated from various avian species during the period 1990-1994. The resistance of these isolates was determined by using the Kirbi Bauer disc diffusion method. Resistance to Oxytetracycline, furazolidone and trimethoprim ranged from 6 to 50% and the highest percentage (50%) was noted to Oxytetracycline. Resistance to spectinomycin reached the highest levels (56-80%). Similar results were noted by using amoxicillin, to which resistance was relateively lower ( — 50%) with a slight decrease to 15% concerning the year 1992 isolates. Resistance to enrofloxaxin and flumequin was at 25% approximately, only for strains isolated during 1991 and 1992. All remaining isolates were sensitive. Low resistance (11%) declining to 3% during the last year of our investigation was noted when neomycin was used. Finally, resistance to chloramphenicol remained below 10%.
Antibody level of Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) in layers
Authors: XYLOURI-FRANGIADAKI (Ε. ΞΥΛΟΥΡΗ-ΦΡΑΓΚΙΑΔΑΚΗ) E. , SAMUHOS (Μ. ΣΑΜΟΥΧΟΣ) M. , TAMBOURATZIS (Δ. ΤΑΜΠΟΥΡΑΤΖΗΣ) D. , STOFOROS (Ε. ΣΤΟΦΟΡΟΣ) E.
Published: January 2018

The detection of the antibody level of Gumboro Disease was performed using ELISA. The test was conducted on 6 experimental groups of different ages from a total number of about 120,000 layers. The blood testing occurred every two weeks without altering the established program of vaccination of the flock. It was ascertained that the average title of antibodies was at a low level and the coefficient of variation (CV) was high, which means that there was no uniformity in the title of antibodies in the bird population. This could be due to the fact that the vaccinations were random without the necessary criteria for application being taken into account. This has the unfortunate consequence that the bird population does not have sufficient immunity for their own protection against the disease.
Reference values of the usual biochemical profile in clinically normal cats
Authors: FYTIANOU (Α. ΦΥΤΙΑΝΟΥ) A. , SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. , KOUTINAS (Α. Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , ROUBIES (Ν. ΡΟΥΜΠΙΕΣ) N. , POLIZOPOULOU (Ζ. ΠΟΛΥΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) Z.
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this study was the establishment of "reference values" for the commonly used blood serum constituents in the everyday practice. A total number of 23 parameters including total proteins, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, glucose, cholosterol, triglycerides, total and indirect bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (AP), gamma - glutamylotransferase (γ-GT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lipase, amylase, creatinine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and sodium (Na) in the serum samples obtained from 1ΘΘ clinically normal cats equally distributed into two age groups (group A <12 months, group Β >12 months). For the total number of sampled cats and for each age group the mean, the standard deviation, the actual range and the 95% confidence interval were calculated separately. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between young and adult cats (group A - group B) for as many as 13 parameters. As it was expected our results are both in agreement and disagreement with those reported in the relevant veterinary literature.
Applications of ultrasonography in cattle reproduction
Authors: AMIRIDIS (Γ.Σ. ΑΜΟΙΡΙΔΗΣ) S. G. , LYMBEROPOULOS (Α. ΛΥΜΠΕΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) A.
Published: January 2018

Ultrasonography is becoming a useful diagnostic toolin the field of cattle pathophysiology, aiding to meet the demands of the expanding cattle breeding. Transrectal ultrasonography is a rapid, reliable and safe technique for both the animal and the operator. With the use of ultrasonography in research, the hypothesis concerning the wave - like pattern of follicular growth has been confirmed. In addition it has been proved that follicular growth, development and regression continue during early pregnancy. The application of ultrasonographic techniques in concert with modern biotechnology, boosted the production of embryos from genetically superior cows and prepubertal heifers and indirectly solved the problem of infertility in valuable animals. In clinical practice, the use of ultrasonography for early pregnancy diagnosis and for diagnosis of pathologic conditions which lead to prolonged postpartum anoestrous, makes a considerable contribution to the reduction of calving interval. In this review basic physical principles of ultrasonography are described and selected applications in the field of cow reproduction are discussed.
Quality index of raw gilthead sea bream
Authors: VARELTZIS (Κ. ΒΑΡΕΛΤΖΗΣ) K. , VASILIADOU (Σ. ΒΑΣΙΛΕΙΑΔΟΥ) S. , SOULTOS (Ν. ΣΟΥΛΤΟΣ) N.
Published: January 2018

Sensorial, biochemical and microbiological methods were used in order to evaluate the quality of the raw gilthed sea bream. Whole fish was stored in ice and in modified gas atmosphere consisting of 70% carbon dioxide and 30% nitrogen. At regular intervals during refrigerated storage Malondialdehyde- MDA^g/kg), Total Volatile Bases-N - TVB-N (mg/100g), odour and flavor scores and various types of micro-organisms were determined. Fatty acid contents were also measured along the cold storage. The results showed that the quality parameters used for the evaluation of raw gilthed sea bream could form a preliminary model for quality index of farmed euryhaline fin fish in our country.
The presence of Haemoproteus spp in wild birds in Greece
Authors: THEODORIDIS (Ι. ΘΕΟΔΩΡΙΔΗΣ) Y. , ALEXAKIS (ΑΛΕΞΑΚΗΣ Α.) A. , MATARA (ΜΑΤΑΡΑ Χ.) Ch.
Published: January 2018

Blood smears from 541 birds of 11 different species, killed in 4 continuous hunting periods (1977-1980), at Macedonian region, were examined. One hundred and six were found to be infected with the protozoon Haemoproteus. A higher infection rate was observed in the orphean warblers (Sylvia hortensis 58,3%) and, in descending order, in the turtle-doves {Streptopelia turtur 33,3%), the partridges (Perdix per dix 33,3%), the goldfinches (Carduelis carduelis 30,4%), the greenfinche orioles (Carduelis chloriis 29,5%), the house sparrows (Passer domesticus 27,6%), the blackbirds (Turdus merula 15%), the quails (Coturnix coturnix 7,62%), and the CettPs warblers (Cettia cetti 7,1%). The parasite was not found in blood smears from song thrushes (Turdus philomelos) and reavings (Turdus iliacus).
Feline atopic dermatitis
Authors: KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ.Ν. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. N.
Published: January 2018

Atopy is a highly pruritic skin disease in cats that have positive intradermal test reactions mostly to non - seasonal allergens (house dust mites). It's pathogenesis is unknown, though it is believed that a reaginic antibody exists resemblin IgE. Young cats appear to be predisposed. The most consistent feature of the disease is pruritus, heralding its clinical picture. The four most commonly occurring cutaneous reaction patterns are military dermatitis, eosinophilic granuloma complex lesions, selfinduced alopecia or hypotrichosis and lesionai or nonlesional pruritus of the face, neck and pinnae. The definitive diagnosis of feline atopy requires a positive intradermal allergy test reaction, good flea control, a poor response to a 9 to 13 -week course of a hypoallergenic diet and negative fungal cultures plus skin scrapings for pathogenic mites. The treatment plan may include avoidance of allergens, glucocortidoids (repositol methylprednisolon, dexamethason), ω/3 - ω/6 fatty acid supplements, antihistamines (chlopheniramine, clemastine) and/or mast cell stabilizers (oxatomide) and hyposensitization.
Clinical and subclinical bovine mastitis in area of Kilkis
Authors: ILIADIS (Ν. ΗΛΙΑΔΗΣ) N. , PETRIDOU (Ε.N.ΠΕΤΡΙΔΟΥ) E. N. , FOUKOS (Α. ΦΟΥΚΟΣ) A.
Published: January 2018

In this study 216 milk samples from equal number of quarters were examined. The results from microbiological examination and the performed California test revealed that 82 samples (38%) were collected from quartres with subclinical mastitis. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most frequent pathogens isolated from the examined milk samples, representing 47.5% of the total isolated strains. Sensitivity test of the strains to certain antimicrobials showed higher performance of gentamycine (90.9% of the cases). On a descending sequence cephalotin (75%), oxalinique acid (63.6%) and ampicilline (54.2%) were the antimicrobials to which sensitivity of the strains was higher than 50%. On the contrary, tetracycline, tincomycine, erythromycine and penicilline G performance was lower than 50%.
Possible association between Mycobacterium paratuberculosis infection and Crohn's disease in human
Authors: DIMARELI-MALLI (Ζ. ΔΗΜΑΡΕΛΛΗ-ΜΑΛΛΗ) Z. , SARRIS (Κ. ΣΑΡΡΗΣ) C.
Published: January 2018

Crohn's disease is a granulomatous ileocolitis of humans, of unknown aetiology, which generally manifests itself during the prime of life. The chronic, progressive clinical course and histological findings are consistent wiht a mycobacterial aetiology. Evidence supporting a pathogenic role for a mycobacterium has become available only in the last decade with the isolation of this microorganism from Crohn's disease tissue. M. paratuberculosis, which is the causative agent of Johne's disease in animals, has been identified in patients with Crohn's disease by PCR and DNA hybridisation techniques. It has been shown that isolates of M. paratuberculosis from Crohn's disease are indentical with pathogenic strains in ruminants.
Comparative analysis of possibilities of memory of the cadets of military educational institutions
Authors: Старченко Григорий , Starchenko Grigoriy
Published: January 2018

The article is devoted to the analysis of the possibilities of operative (audial and visual) memory among cadets of military educational organizations. As a result of an empirical study of the mnemonic abilities of 56 cadets of the Military University of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, it was found that the perception of information in a visual form has a greater impact on the volume and quality of the stored material than the presentation of information in an auditory form. A technique was used to present 10 words in various forms and memorize. The revealed originality of the representative mnemonic systems of operative memory of servicemen (military cadets) serves as a basis for improving the educational process, combat training and personnel management.
Community palliative care clinical nurse specialists as independent prescribers: part 1
Authors: Latham Kathy , Nyatanga Brian
Published: January 2018

The Department of Health and Social Care has recently reiterated its commitment to improvement in the quality of end-of-life care and emphasised the importance of all patients having rapid access to medication. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of clinical nurse specialists who are able to prescribe independently in their role in providing support for patients with palliative care needs within the community setting. Interpretive phenomenology was employed in order to understand and interpret the experiences of six nurse independent prescribers employed as community palliative care clinical nurse specialists. This purposive sampling was preferred with semi-structured interviews as the most appropriate data collection technique. This is the first of a two-part article. In this part, the authors describe how the study was undertaken. Part 2 will provide the results, outline the key themes that were extracted from the study, and discuss them. It will be published in the next issue of the Journal.
Continuity of carer
Authors: Axcell Claire
Published: January 2018

The idea behind continuity of carer may be simple but, as Claire Axcell writes, evidence shows the effect that it can have on the NHS and on women and their families
Vulnerable migrant women and postnatal depression: A case of invisibility in maternity services?
Authors: Firth Amanda Dawn , Haith-Cooper Melanie
Published: January 2018

Vulnerable migrant women are at an increased risk of developing postnatal depression, compared with the general population. Although some symptoms are the same as in other pregnant women, there are specific reasons why vulnerable migrant women may present differently, or may not recognise symptoms themselves. Factors associated with migration may affect a woman's mental health, particularly considering forced migration, where a woman may have faced violence or trauma, both in her home country and on the journey to the UK. Vulnerable migrant women engage less with maternity care than the average woman for reasons including a lack of knowledge of the UK healthcare system, fear of being charged for care, or fear that contact with clinicians will negatively affect their immigration status. This article explores the issues surrounding vulnerable migrant women that increase their risk of developing postnatal depression and presents reasons why this may go unrecognised by health professionals such as midwives.
A practice-based evaluation
Authors: Burke FJ Trevor , Crisp Russell J
Published: January 2018

Trevor Burke and Russell Crisp present the PREP Panel's evaluation of Dentsply Sirona Nupro White Varnish.