bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of pamidronate to reverse vitamin D3-induced toxicosis in dogs
Authors: Rumbeiha Wilson K. , Kruger John M. , Fitzgerald Scott F. , Nachreiner Raymond F. , Kaneene John B. , Braselton W. Emmett , Chiapuzio Crystal L.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To determine whether pamidronate di-sodium can reduce vitamin D3-induced hypercalcemia in dogs and whether combination treatment with calcitonin is more effective than treatment with pamidronate alone.

Animals

20 clinically normal male Beagles.

Procedure

All dogs were given 8 mg of cholecalciferol (CCF)/kg of body weight once orally, then were assigned randomly to 4 groups of 5 dogs each. Dogs were given 0.9% NaCl solution IV (group 1), calcitonin SC and 0.9% NaCl solution IV (group 2), pamidronate and 0.9% NaCl solution IV (group 3), or a combination of all 3 agents (group 4). Dogs were observed for 28 days, and serial blood and urine samples were collected for determination of serum biochemical, electrolyte, and 25(OH)D3 values, CBC, and urine mineral excretion. Samples of kidney, stomach, lung, aorta, liver, duodenum, and brain were evaluated by light microscopy and quantitative mineral analysis.

Results

Two dogs in group 1 were euthanatized 4 days after CCF administration because of severe clinical signs of disease. Dogs in group 3 lost less weight and had significantly lower serum phosphorus, total and ionized calcium, and urinary zinc concentrations, compared with dogs in group 1. On day 4, serum urea nitrogen concentration was significantly lower in dogs of groups 3 and 4, compared with dogs in group 1. Mild to moderate mineralization of kidneys and stomach were observed in the 2 group-1 dogs euthanatized on day 4.

Conclusions

Pamidronate administration effectively prevents CCF-induced hypercalcemia and mineralization of soft tissues.

Clinical Relevance

Pamidronate is a potentially useful antidote against CCF toxicosis in dogs. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1092-1097)
Antibody titer against bovine respiratory syncytial virus in colostrum-fed dairy calves born in various seasons
Authors: van der Poel Wim H. M. , Middel Wiechert G. J. , Schukken Ynte H.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To determine antibody titer against bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) in dairy calves on farms and to investigate whether passively acquired antibody titers differ in calves born in various seasons.

Sample Population

Serum samples from 129 colostrum-fed replacement calves in 8 dairy herds.

Procedure

A standard ELISA was used to determine BRSV-specific antibodies in serum samples obtained monthly, and antibody titers for calves born in various seasons were compared.

Results

BRSV-specific antibody titer in colostrum-fed dairy calves decreased to undetectable values at 3 to 4 months old. Calves born in winter generally had lower titers, compared with those for calves born in other seasons (P< 0.05). Titers in calves born in seasons other than winter did not differ.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Calves born in winter generally have lower BRSV-specific antibody titers, which may be caused by generally lower antibody titers in colostrum or by factors influencing colostrum intake. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1098-1101)
Subconjunctivally implanted micro-osmotic pumps for continuous ocular treatment in horses
Authors: Blair Michael J. , Gionfriddo Juliet R. , Polazzi Lisa M. , Sojka Janice E. , Pfaff Ann M. , Bingaman David P.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of using a subconjunctivally implanted micro-osmotic pump for continuous delivery of medication to the eyes of horses-during a 7-day period.

Animals

4 healthy adult horses.

Procedure

With horses restrained in a standing position, micro-osmotic pumps were implanted sub-conjunctivally in each eye for 7 days. The treatment eye received an atropine-loaded micro-osmotic pump (100 μl of 1.5% atropine), and the contralateral eye received a sterile saline-loaded pump (100 μl of 0.9% NaCl) as a control treatment. Pupil size was measured at 12-hour intervals until values returned to baseline.

Results

The micro-osmotic pumps were tolerated and did not migrate or become dislodged. During the 7-day treatment period, pupils were significantly larger in the eyes implanted with atropine-loaded pumps, compared with saline-implanted control eyes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Micro-osmotic pumps were implanted and removed easily from standing horses and were not associated with complications during the 7-day treatment period. Therefore, subconjunctivally implanted micro-osmotic pumps can potentially be used when treating ophthalmic disease in horses. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1102-1105)
Identification of a 6 base pair insertion in West Highland White Terriers with erythrocyte pyruvate kinase deficiency
Authors: Skelly Barbara J. , Wallace Mary , Rajpurohit Yashoda R. , Wang Ping , Giger Urs
Published: January 2024

Objective

To define the disease-causing mutation in West Highland White Terriers (WHWT) with erythrocyte pyruvate kinase (R-PK) deficiency and to design a genetic test capable of recognizing affected (homozygous) and carrier (heterozygous) dogs.

Animals

3 anemic WHWT littermates and 1 unaffected littermate; 16 dogs from the same kennel, including 4 unrelated, phenotypically normal dogs (control dogs), and 12 for which PK activity was not known; 2 PK-deficient Basenjis; 2 PK-deficient Beagles; 4 unaffected English Springer Spaniels; and 1 mixed-breed dog.

Procedures

cDNA was cloned and sequenced, and cDNA sequences were compared with the published sequence for canine R-PK cDNA to identify the putative disease-causing mutation. Genomic DNA spanning the affected region was cloned and sequenced to verify the mutation. Subsequently, polymerase chain reaction primers were designed to amplify the section of the gene containing the mutation from DNA in blood or buccal swab samples. Gel electrophoresis allowed assignment of genotypes on the basis of allele separation.

Results

4 single base polymorphisms attributable to sequencing errors in the published sequence were identified, along with a 6 base pair (bp) insertion in exon 10 that was recognized as a putative disease-causing mutation. An identical insertion was found in genomic DNA. Amplification of genomic DNA yielded a 117 bp product for genotypically normal dogs and a 123 bp product for WHWT homozygous for PK deficiency. Carriers had 1 copy of each allele and variable heteroduplex structures.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

A 6 bp insertion in the C domain of R-PK was identified in whwt with PK deficiency. Affected and carrier dogs could be distinguished with a genetic test. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1169-1172)
Effects of the antimicrobial growth promoter tylosin on subclinical infection of pigs with Salmonella enterica serotype Typhimurium
Authors: Baggesen Dorte L. , Wingstrand Anne , Carstensen Bendix , Nielsen Bent , Aarestrup Frank M.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To determine whether feeding tylosin, an antimicrobial growth promoter, to pigs was associated with increased risk of infection with and excretion of Salmonella enterica serotype Typhimurium.

Animals

117 healthy pigs.

Procedure

A commercial pelleted dry feed was given in 2 feeding trials. In trial A, 11 pigs were given feed with tylosin, 11 pigs were given feed without tylosin, and 11 pigs were given feed with tylosin before and feed without tylosin after inoculation with S Typhimurium. In trial B, 44 pigs were given feed that contained tylosin, and 44 pigs were given feed without tylosin. Three weeks after the start of each trial, pigs were orally inoculated with approximately 5 × 106 colony-forming units of S Typhimurium. Feces were examined for S Typhimurium, using semiquantitative microbiologic techniques before and for 5 or 6 weeks after inoculation. Serum antibody titers against S enterica were measured by use of ELISA.

Results

None of the pigs developed clinical signs of salmonellosis. However, after inoculation, S Typhimurium was isolated from feces of most pigs, and all but 2 pigs developed serum antibodies against S enterica. Significant differences were not detected between experimental and control groups in either trial.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Results indicate that tylosin fed as an antimicrobial growth promoter to pigs may not be an important factor in promoting infection with or excretion of S enterica serotype Typhimurium. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1201–1206)
Effect of inhaled nitric oxide on experimentally induced pulmonary hypertension in neonatal foals
Authors: Lester Guy D. , DeMarco Vincent G. , Norman Wendy M.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) in anesthetized healthy newborn foals with experimentally induced pulmonary hypertension.

Animals

Five 1- to 3-day-old foals.

Procedure

Anesthesia was induced and maintained with propofol, and foals were intubated and mechanically ventilated. Systemic pressure and pulmonary arterial pressure (PPA) were recorded every 30 seconds. Hypertension was induced via a hypoxic gas mixture or chemical vasoconstriction, using the thromboxane mimetic U46619. Nitric oxide was added at a concentration of 80 parts per million (ppm) for 6 minutes under baseline conditions and during pulmonary hypertension-induced alveolar hypoxia (inspired oxygen concentration = 0.08). Nitric oxide (20, 40, 80, and 160 ppm) was evaluated during U46619-induced hypertension. Samples for determination of arterial blood gas tensions were collected before and after each NO treatment.

Results

Inhaled NO (approx 80 ppm) did not have an effect on baseline variables. Infusion of U46619 (0.35 ± 0.04 μg/kg of body weight/min) or alveolar hypoxia resulted in increased PPA and decreased arterial oxygenation (Pao2) and hemoglobin saturation (HbSat). The increase in PPA was attenuated, in a dose-dependent manner, by NO during U46619 infusion and reversed by NO during induced hypoxemia. The Pao2 and HbSat were significantly improved at all NO doses during U44619 infusion but not during alveolar hypoxia. For all inhaled NO concentrations, nitrogen dioxide and methoglobin values were < 5 ppm and 3%, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Nitric oxide is a potent, selective vasodilator of the pulmonary circulation in healthy newborn foals. Inhaled NO may have value as a therapeutic agent in foals with pulmonary hypertension. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1207–1212)
Monthly, daily, and circadian variations of measurements of pulmonary mechanics in horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Jean Daniel , Vrins André , Lavoie Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To determine temporal variations of pulmonary function in horses without respiratory tract disease (controls) and horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and determine whether reversibility of airway obstruction after environmental control can be predicted by response to atropine administration.

Animals

7 COPD-affected and 5 control horses.

Procedures

Pulmonary function testing was performed monthly during 3 consecutive months, daily for 5 consecutive days, and at 6-hour intervals for 24 hours before and after administration of atropine (0.02 mg/kg of body weight, IV) and after 5 consecutive months at pasture. Respiratory rate, tidal volume (VT), minute ventilation (VE), maximal change in transpulmonary pressure (ΔPL), pulmonary resistance (RL), and pulmonary elastance (EL) were calculated.

Results

COPD-affected horses had a significantly higher expiratory to inspiratory time ratio (TE/TI) and ΔPL, EL, and RL than horses without respiratory tract diseases during all periods and higher VE during monthly and daily evaluations. Daily variation in VT and monthly and circadian variation in EL were significant in COPD-affected horses. In control horses, significant changes were apparent only in TE/TI during daily recordings. In COPD-affected horses, reduction in ΔPL, RL, and EL was significant after atropine administration and after maintenance on pasture.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Despite variations in measurements of respiratory mechanics in both groups of horses, values remained significantly different between groups over time. Despite individual variation, measurements were repeatable during short and long periods. Response to administration of atropine to COPD-affected horses underestimated improvement in respiratory tract function that resulted from maintenance on pasture. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1341–1346)
Effects of chromium supplementation on glucose tolerance in obese and nonobese cats
Authors: Cohn Leah A. , Dodam John R. , McCaw Dudley L. , Tate Debbie J.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To determine effects of dietary supplementation with chromium (Cr) picolinate on health and response to IV glucose tolerance testing (IVGTT) in obese and nonobese cats.

Animals

7 obese and 12 nonobese cats.

Procedure

6 nonobese cats were untreated controls, whereas 6 different nonobese cats and 7 obese cats received oral administration of 100 μg Cr/d for 6 weeks. All cats were evaluated before and immediately after the treatment period by use of physical examination, CBC, serum biochemical analyses, and IVGTT. Calculated values included glucose half-life, coefficient of glucose disappearance, insulin peak response, insulinogenic index, and insulin secretion rate determined at various times after start of IVGTT.

Results

Adverse effects on cats’ health were not observed during or after treatment, and significant changes in body weight, hematologic values, or most serum biochemical values were not detected. Serum potassium concentration decreased significantly after treatment in obese cats but was within reference range. Compared with nonobese cats, obese cats had significantly higher insulin peak response, insulinogenic index, and insulin secretion rate before and after treatment. Chromium supplementation did not alter responses to IVGTT in either treatment group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Dietary supplementation with 100 μg of Cr/d for 6 weeks is safe but does not affect glucose tolerance in obese or nonobese cats. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1360–1363)
Use of a polymerase chain reaction method to detect the leukotoxin gene IktA in biogroup and biovariant isolates of Pasteurella haemolytica and P trehalosi
Authors: Fisher Mark A. , Weiser Glen C. , Hunter David L. , Ward Alton C. S.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To determine whether Pasteurella haemolytica and P trehalosi isolates possess the structural gene for Pasteurella leukotoxin IktA and whether β-hemolytic activity of these isolates correlated with detection of the IktA gene.

Sample Population

147 P haemolytica isolates from 21 biovariant groups and 101 P trehalosi isolates from 7 biovariant groups. In addition, P multocida and organisms from 7 other genera were tested to establish specificity of the procedure.

Procedure

Isolates were observed for β-hemolysis. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) procedure was used to amplify the RTX domain of the Pasteurella IktA gene.

Results

The IktA gene was detected in 108 (44%) isolates, including 15 associated with respiratory tract disease. All but 2 (98%) of the isolates that had the IktA gene were β-hemolytic when grown on sheep blood agar. The remaining 140 isolates were negative for the IktA gene and hemolytic activity.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Hemolytic activity of P haemolytica and P trehalosi isolates correlated with detection of the IktA gene for all but 2 isolates. However, 56% of isolates tested were negative for the IktA gene and β-hemolytic activity. Leukotoxin production and secretion is a major virulence factor when other conditions are favorable for disease development. Therefore, identification of strains that possess the IktA gene may aid in the evaluation of the pathogenic potential of Pasteurella strains carried by wild and domestic animals. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1402–1406)
Isolation and characterization of the eighth component of the bovine complement system
Authors: Menger Marilyn , Sowery Richard D. , Aston W. Peter
Published: January 2024

Objective

To isolate and characterize the eighth component of the complement system (C8) in cattle.

Sample Population

Fresh plasma obtained from beef cattle.

Procedures

Plasma samples were fractionated, using sequential precipitation and ion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography, to yield C8. The protein was identified throughout the procedure on the basis of its hemolytic function. Electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels was used to determine molecular weight and composition of polypeptide chains. Reconstitution of classical and alternative complement pathways was used to characterize the hemolytic function of bovine C8.

Results

The bovine C8 protein consisted of a disulfide-bonded α-γ heterodimer that was noncovalently associated with a β chain. Apparent molecular weight of the α, β, and γ chains under reducing conditions were 66, 61, and 23 kd, respectively. In the classical pathway of activation, bovine C8 and the ninth component of the complement system (C9) had species incompatibility with human C8 and C9 on sheep erythrocyte target cells.

Conclusions

A simple 4-step fractionation procedure provided good yield of bovine C8 from plasma. The isolated protein was structurally comparable to C8 from other species. Purified bovine C8 may be useful in functional hemolytic assays to investigate the roles of complement-mediated lysis in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases and the killing of susceptible microorganisms. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1474–1477)
Direct and reconstructed multiplanar computed tomography of the orbits of healthy dogs
Authors: Boroffka Susanne A. E. B. , Voorhout George
Published: January 2024

Objective

To describe anatomy of the orbits as revealed by computed tomography (CT) in different scan planes, determine the most useful scan plane for imaging the eye, optic nerve, and extraocular muscles, and compare image quality of direct CT images with reconstructed images obtained from 2-mm-thick and 5-mm-thick transverse images.

Animals

9 dogs with no ocular abnormalities.

Procedure

In 3 dogs, CT was combined with cisternography to facilitate imaging of the optic nerve and determine the scan plane that allowed optimum imaging of the optic nerve in a single image. In 6 dogs, CT images were made in transverse, dorsal oblique, and sagittal oblique scan directions. Dorsal and sagittal reconstructions were made from transverse images.

Results

In all dogs, scanning in different planes enabled identification of ocular structures, optic nerves, and orbital adnexa, as well as identification of the confines of the orbit. Imaging of optic nerve and extraocular muscles was optimal on dorsal oblique scans at an angle of 43 to 45° to the skull base and on sagittal oblique images at an angle of 59 to 61° to the midline of the skull.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

All scan directions provided detailed images of orbital structures. Transverse images were convenient for survey examination, and dorsal oblique and sagittal oblique images were superior for imaging optic nerves and extraocular muscles. Image quality of reconstructed images obtained from the 2-mm-thick transverse images was superior to that obtained from the 5-mm-thick images. Optimum quality was achieved with direct multiplanar imaging. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1500–1507)
In vitro effects of glucosamine and acetylsalicylate on canine chondrocytes in three-dimensional culture
Authors: Anderson C. Collins , Cook James L. , Kreeger John M. , Tomlinson James L. , Wagner-Mann Colette C.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To determine effects of glucosamine and acetylsalicylate on canine chondrocytes in 3-dimensional culture.

Sample Population

Chondrocytes isolated from articular cartilage of 2 adult female dogs recently euthanatized for reasons unrelated to orthopedic abnormalities.

Procedure

Chondrocytes were cultured in a 3-dimensional agarose-based medium alone (control), with glucosamine (100 μg/ml; GL), or with acetylsalicylate (18 µg/ml; AS). Supernatant and agarose plugs from 4 wells/group/d were collected on days 3, 6, and 12 of culture. Agarose plugs were evaluated for percentage of viable cells, percentage of cells producing pericellular or territorial matrix, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) concentration, and type-II collagen production. Prostaglandin E2 concentration in supernatants was determined.

Results

Chondrocytes in all groups had characteristics indicative of viability and differentiation; however, on day 12, a lower percentage of viable cells was detected in the AS group, compared with the other 2 groups. On day 6, GAG concentration in the AS group was significantly greater than concentrations in the other 2 groups. On day 12, GAG concentrations in the GL and AS groups were significantly less than in the control group. Within the GL and AS groups, cell viability was significantly less on day 12, compared with day 3. Significant differences in PGE2 concentration among or within groups and evidence of type II collagen production were not detected.

Conclusions

3-dimensional culture of canine chondrocytes allows for production of hyaline cartilage matrix constituents and growth of cells with morphologic characteristics similar to those of articular cartilage. Acetylsalicylate and glucosamine, at the single concentration evaluated, had detrimental effects on chondrocyte viability, GAG production, or both. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1546–1551)
Assessment of isoflurane-induced anesthesia in ferrets and rats
Authors: Imai Ayako , Steffey Eugene P. , Farver Thomas B. , Ilkiw Jan E.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To characterize isoflurane (ISO)-induced anesthesia in ferrets and rats.

Animals

8 ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) and 8 Sprague-Dawley rats.

Procedure

Ferrets and rats were anesthetized in a similar manner, using ISO in oxygen. Minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) was determined, using the tail-clamp method. Immediately thereafter, assessments were recorded for 0.8, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 MAC (order randomized) of ISO.

Results

MAC of ISO was (mean ± SEM) 1.74 ± 0.03 and 1.58 ± 0.05% for ferrets and rats, respectively. Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was 75.0 ± 4.3 and 107.9 ± 2.7 mm Hg at 0.8 MAC for ferrets and rats, respectively, and decreased in a parallel dose-dependent manner. Respiratory frequency decreased in rats as ISO dose increased; however, respiratory frequency increased in ferrets as ISO dose increased from 0.8 to 1.5 MAC but then decreased at 2.0 MAC. At 0.8 MAC, hypoventilation was much greater in ferrets (Paco2 = 71.4 ± 3.5 mm Hg), compared with rats (Paco2 = 57.7 ± 1.9 mm Hg). In both species, Paco2 progressively increased as anesthetic dose increased. Eyelid aperture of ferrets increased in a dose-dependent manner. Pupil diameter in ferrets and rats increased as ISO dose increased.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

The MAP and Paco2 in ferrets and rats and eyelid aperture in ferrets consistently and predictably changed in response to changes in anesthetic dose of ISO. Magnitude of respiratory depression was greater in ferrets than rats. Changes in MAP and Paco2 in ferrets and rats and eyelid aperture in ferrets are consistent guides to changes in depth of ISO-induced anesthesia. (Am J Vet Res 1999;60:1577–1583)
Xanthogranulomatous keratitis in a mixed-breed dog
Authors: Bergen Alexandra , Herrmann James , Reilly Christopher M.
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical and histopathological features of a case of xanthogranulomatous keratitis in a mixed-breed dog.

ANIMAL

Mixed-breed dog.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION, PROGRESSION, AND PROCEDURES

An 11-year-old spayed female mixed-breed dog was presented for mild blepharospasm, corneal cloudiness, and increasing conjunctival hyperemia OD. Ophthalmic examination revealed multifocal pink and cream-colored consolidated corneal infiltrative lesions and generalized neovascularization with suspected diagnosis of stromal abscessation. There was no improvement after 1 month of medical management, so a keratectomy was performed, and corneal tissue was sent for histopathological evaluation.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME

The nonulcerative keratitis was refractive to medical management including topical and systemic antibiotics, topical antifungal, and systemic anti-inflammatory, so keratectomy was performed. Histopathologic diagnosis of xanthogranulomatous keratitis was made 1 week postoperatively. The patient was prescribed 0.05% difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion and 0.2% tacrolimus ophthalmic ointment (initially q 8 h, OD). The difluprednate was tapered and discontinued after 2 months, but the tacrolimus was continued (q 12 h, OD). No lesion recurrence had been documented 1 year postoperatively.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

There has been little published on canine xanthogranulomas, especially in veterinary ophthalmology. Ocular xanthogranulomas have been reportedly found intraocularly and at the ocular surface. Histologically, they are characterized by well-delineated nodules that contain histiocytes and abundant lipid-laden macrophages. The treatment in this clinical case was surgical excision followed with topical immunosuppression/anti-inflammatory therapy with no recurrence 1 year postoperatively. Xanthogranulomatous keratitis should be an added differential diagnosis when nonulcerative keratitis is found on examination, specifically with consolidated, corneal infiltrate and minimal pain.
Chemical, nutritional and sensory characteristics of milk and cheeses obtained from autochthonous, cosmopolitan, and crossbred goats
Authors: Kawęcka Aldona , Pasternak Marta
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to analyse the milk parameters and the chemical, nutritional, and sensory characteristics of cheeses made from the milk of three groups of goats: native Carpathian goat, Anglonubian and crossbred goats (Saanen × Alpine). For this study, milk was collected three times during the grazing season and was processed into rennet semi-hard cheeses according to a traditional recipe in a pre-farm cheese dairy. Samples of the milk were subjected to physicochemical analyses. The chemical composition, vitamin, macronutrient content, and fatty acid profile of the cheeses were determined. The cheeses were also subjected to organoleptic evaluation. The results showed that the factors studied, such as breed and month of milking, had a significant effect on the physicochemical properties and chemical composition of goat milk. The month of milking affected all the milk characteristics studied, with September having the highest values of acidity, dry matter, fat and protein content. The month did not affect the level of basic components in the cheeses, but it influenced the content of vitamins and macronutrients; the cheeses produced in September had significantly higher levels of Mg, K, and vitamin E. The month of milking had, as did the breed of goat, a significant effect on the profile of most fatty acids in the cheeses. As for the breed factor, it affected both the chemical composition and sensory value of the cheeses. Cheeses made from the milk of the native Carpathian goat had the best health-promoting properties: a more favourable fatty acid profile, the lowest PUFA-6/3 ratio, and the lowest atherogenic index. According to the panellists, cheese from the milk of Carpathian goats also had the most distinctive aroma, typical for goat cheese. The research shows that the cheeses made from the milk of the native Carpathian goat had the best health-promoting properties, which confirms the need for further popularisation of the breed and can be the basis for marketing more products.
Effect of Rearing Technology on Production Performance, Selected and Blood Parameters and Welfare Levels of Broiler Chickens During the Summer Production Cycle
Authors: Skomorucha Iwona , Sosnówka-Czajka Ewa
Published: January 2024

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of rearing technology (rearing system and dietary supplementation with a mixed herbal extract) on the production results, selected physiological and blood parameters, and welfare of broiler chickens during the summer production cycle. In the CON and HE groups, broiler chickens were kept on litter without access to free range; additionally, in the HE group, birds from 22 to 42 days of rearing received a mixed herbal extract (50% Melissa officinalis L. and 50% Urtica dioica L.) in the amount of 2 ml/l of water to drinkers with water. In the AP group, birds were reared on litter with access to pasture. During the experiment, production performance and body temperature of the birds were monitored. Blood was also taken from birds in each group and the H:L ratio, levels of corticosterone, glucose and thyroid hormones were determined. The application of 2 ml/l of mixed herbal extract to the drinking water did not improve the production results, nor did it affect the physiological indices of the birds studied. The addition of 2 ml/l of mixed herbal extract to the drinking water only resulted in lower corticosterone levels in the blood of the chickens on day 35 of the experiment. The free-range housing system had a negative effect on the slaughter performance of the broiler chickens. However, housing with access to the free range resulted in lower body temperature, lower mortality, as well as lower glucose, corticosterone and a narrower H:L ratio in the blood of the chickens during the period of increasing air temperature. It can therefore be concluded that housing with access to a free range reduces stress levels and thus improves the welfare of broiler chickens during the summer production cycle compared to confined housing. Comparing the rearing technologies used in the study, it was found that the free-range housing system contributed more to improving the comfort of broiler chickens during the summer than dietary supplementation with the tested herbal mixture extract.
Associations Between Metabolic Syndrome, Ulcerative Colitis, and Fecal sST2 and CXCL8 Levels: Unveiling New Inflammatory Pathways
Authors: Vucelj Samir , Corovic Irfan , Jovanovic Marina , Petrovic Andjela , Stanisavljevic Isidora , Stojanovic Bojan , Corovic Kemal , Andrejevic Ivana , Zdravkovic Natasa , Stojanovic Milica Dimitrijevic , Balovic Goran , Stojanovic Bojana
Published: January 2024

Ulcerative Colitis (UC), a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, exhibits complex interactions with metabolic disorders such as Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), which can significantly impact disease progression and patient outcomes. Among the multitude of players in this intricate network, soluble ST2 (sST2) and Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8) have emerged as critical mediators of immune responses, potentially modulating the disease course in UC patients with co-existing MetS. This study aimed to investigate the association between Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and immune response modulation in patients with Ulcerative Colitis (UC). UC patients, stratified by the presence of MetS, underwent clinical, endoscopic, and histological evaluation, along with blood and fecal biochemical analyses. Serum and fecal concentrations of sST2 and CXCL8 were measured and compared between groups. UC patients with MetS exhibited lower white blood cell (WBC) count, higher levels of metabolic markers, and milder disease severity on clinical, endoscopic, and histological scales. Serum concentrations of sST2 and CXCL8 were similar between UC patients with and without MetS. However, fecal levels of these cytokines were significantly elevated in UC patients with MetS, suggesting a localized intensified immune response. Our findings indicate a potential dichotomy in the immune response of UC patients with MetS, characterized by a dampened systemic inflammation and heightened local immune response. The elevated fecal levels of sST2 and CXCL8 underscore a potentially unique immune modulation within the gut in the presence of MetS. These findings shed new light on the pathophysiological interplay between MetS and UC and may provide new avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies.
Das Klima und eine marode Infrastruktur richten sich nicht nach der Schuldenbremse
Authors: Heine Michael , Herr Hansjörg
Published: January 2024

The German Federal Constitutional Court has ordered a revision of public budgets following the correct interpretation of the German debt brake. The debt brake is an obstacle to necessary public investment needed for ecological transformation of areas such as housing construction and education. The debt brake should be replaced by the golden rule of fiscal policy, which allows credit financing of public investments.
Finanzierung von Staatsaufgaben: nachhaltige Finanzpolitik und Schuldenbremse
Authors: Kurz Rudi
Published: January 2024

Multiple crises and ecological transformation are driving an intense debate about government credit financing and its restriction by the constitutional debt brake. The Board of Academic Advisors at the BMWK has presented a proposal on how more flexibility would be possible without undermining the indispensable disciplining function of the debt brake. The Board recommends a selective relaxation of the debt brake linked to conditions that are virtually impossible to fulfil (net investment, independent institution, no inflationary effects). Therefore, regarding the fact that the Board has formulated a justification for the debt brake: As long as there is no practicable reform proposal, there is no reason to change the constitution.
Konsens und Dissens in der evidenzbasierten Politikberatung
Authors: Garnadt Niklas
Published: January 2024

Economic policy advice often reveals conflicting objectives. Using the example of the German Council of Economic Experts’ evidence-based policy advice, this article presents institutionalised procedures for consensus and dissent in the preparation of its annual report. While consensus is sought in the first two stages of primary data and data analysis, dissent regularly occurs in the third stage of reaching policy conclusions. Dissent is institutionalised through the possibility of authoring minority votes.
Development Worksheet Integrated PhET Simulation to Improve Critical Thinking Skills in Junior High School
Authors: Rahmat* Anggi Datiatur , Wilujeng Insih , Kuswanto Heru , Mat Daud Anis Nazihah , Saepuzaman Duden
Published: January 2024

Integrating technology has a positive impact on science learning. Technology multiplatform can be used as a didactic tool is physics education technology (PhET). This study aims to develop worksheet integrated PhET simulations. The development adopted the 4D model. The designed activity aims to engage students in critical thinking. The instrument for measuring critical thinking consists of 5 questions based on the critical thinking aspect: interpretation, analysis, evaluation, inference, and explanation. Content and media experts and two practitioners validated the media. The validation result shows a V index between 0.80 - 1.00 for all aspects with very high categories. The readability test was administered to 20 students and gained very good results. The effectiveness test was conducted on two different classes. The experiment class uses a worksheet integrated PhET, while the control class uses a worksheet without PhET. Students in the experiment class had higher critical thinking skills scores than those in class control. It can be interpreted that using worksheet-integrated PhET affected students' critical-thinking skills. The results of this study can be used as a reference for integrating technology into science learning
Bacteria as Ecological Tools: Pioneering Microplastic Biodegradation
Authors: Da Silva Milena Roberta Freire , Souza Karolayne Silva , Candido Manoella Almeida , Motteran Fabricio , De Araújo Lívia Caroline Alexandre , De Oliveira Maria Betânia Melo
Published: January 2024

Objective: Examine through scientific literature the use of the biological process of microplastic degradation by bacteria, as well as discuss the definition, characteristics, and environmental and health impacts caused by these respective particles.
 
Materials and Methods:  Systematic review conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. Searches were performed in the electronic databases and libraries of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Lilacs, using keywords and Boolean operators: "Environment" AND "Microplastics" AND "Microorganisms" OR "Bacteria" AND "Biodegradation" AND "Xenobiotics.
 
Results and conclusion: The results have highlighted that microplastics are among the most challenging emerging contaminants regarding their degradation in the environment. Therefore, studies on the biodegradation of microplastics by bacteria have been considered a promising and ecological methodology for reducing the pollution of these particles in the environment.
 
Originality/ value: This investigation has underscored the significance of both abiotic and biotic degradation processes of microplastics, emphasizing the importance of bacteria in the degradation of these particles and thereby promoting environmental sustainability.
Cistectomia Radical com Neobexiga Ortotópica de Studer Assistida por Robot com Preservação de Órgãos Pélvicos
Authors: Medeiros Mariana , Andrade Vanessa , Gomes Aléxia , Ferronha Frederico , Pina João , Campos Pinheiro Luís
Published: January 2024

A cistectomia radical e a derivação urinária apresentam um impacto significativo na qualidade de vida dos doentes, nomeadamente por diminuir a função sexual e urinária.
A possibilidade de oferecer uma cirurgia que preserva os órgãos pélvicos femininos tem sido proposta em casos selecionados e pretende melhorar os resultados funcionais nestas doentes sem comprometer os resultados oncológicos.
Neste trabalho, apresenta-se um caso clínico de uma senhora de 50 anos com o diagnóstico de carcinoma urotelial não músculo-invasivo refratário a tratamento com bacilo Calmette-Guérin (BCG) e vida sexual ativa. A doente foi submetida a cistectomia radical com neobexiga de Studer intracorpórea laparoscópica assistida de robot com preservação dos órgãos pélvicos.
Neste artigo descrevem-se detalhadamente os passos da técnica cirúrgica e comparam-se os resultados funcionais com os descritos na literatura.
Przegląd badań dotyczących dysfunkcji mowy związanych z zaburzeniami oddychania
Authors:   Uniwersytet Śląski w Katowicach, Malicka Izabela
Published: January 2024

The author discusses the function of breathing as one of the primary functions. She demonstrates the relationship between the physiological functions of breathing, rest position of the tongue and swallowing, and the disorder of articulation. This article presents a review of research and literature in the field of speech therapy pertaining to the dysfunction of speech due to respiratory disorders.
Cavernous sinus invasion: imaging versus clinical outcomes of pituitary adenomas
Authors:   Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College Of Medicine, Pecorari Isabella L
Published: January 2024

While MRI reports are widely used to assist with neurosurgical planning, radiographic evidence of CS invasion does not always correlate to intraoperative findings. However, there should remain a high index of suspicion of true invasion, as indicated by imaging reports, for patients who are of younger age.
Epidemiological Characterization of Dengue in South Andaman Islands, India: An Update
Authors:   Department Of Medical Microbiology & Molecular Biology, ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Port Blair -744103, Andaman And Nicobar Islands, India, P Vijayachari
Published: January 2024

Dengue is a vector-borne viral infection and has become a significant tropical disease with increased recognition of atypical manifestations apart from the classical clinical features
Cyberchondria, Psychological Distress, and Academic Adjustment Among Undergraduate Students in Oman
Authors:   Lecturer: Community And Mental Health Department/ College Of Nursing/ Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), Al-Seeb, Muscat, Oman, Qutishat Mohammad Ghalib
Published: January 2024

Cyberchondria refers to the irrational rise in anxiety over one’s health as a result of a World Wide Web search for medical information
A Case Series of Children with ADHD and Restless Sleep
Authors:   Johns Hopkins University, Lam Janet
Published: January 2024

Children with ADHD may be misdiagnosed if their symptoms are actually secondary to a sleep disorder. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and Periodic Limb Movements of Sleep (PLMS) may disrupt sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and daytime fatigue.
A Near Fatal Ceftriaxone-Induced Hemolytic Anemia in Pediatric Age: Case Report
Authors:   Paediatric Department, Hospital De Braga, Miranda Sofia Brandão
Published: January 2024

This case highlights the importance of recognizing and managing CIIHA promptly to achieve a favorable outcome. It is crucial to consider CIIHA in the differential diagnosis of hemolytic anemia in pediatric patients receiving ceftriaxone and to have a high degree of suspicion in cases of unexplained hemolysis.
Probabilistic Pretactical Arrival and Departure Flight Delay Prediction with Quantile Regression
Authors: Dalmau Ramon , De Falco Paolino , Spak Miroslav , Varela José Daniel Rodriguez
Published: January 2024

Airports plan their resources well in advance based on anticipated traffic. Currently, the only traffic information accessible in the pretactical phase is the flight schedules and historical data. In practice, however, flights do not always depart or arrive on time for a variety of reasons, such as air traffic flow management or reactionary delays. Because neither air traffic flow management regulations nor aircraft rotations are known during the pretactical phase, predicting the precise arrival and departure delays of individual flights is challenging given current technologies. As a result, probabilistic flight delay predictions are more plausible. This paper presents a machine learning model trained on historical data that learned the various quantiles of the departure and arrival delay distributions of individual flights. The model makes use of input features available during the pretactical phase, such as the airline, aircraft type, or expected number of passengers, to provide predictions of the delay distribution several days before operations. The performance of the model trained on operational data from Geneva airport is compared to a statistical baseline, providing evidence that machine learning is superior. Furthermore, the contribution of the various input features is quantified using the Shapely method, stressing the importance of the expected number of passengers. Finally, some practical examples are presented to illustrate how such a model could be applied in the pretactical phase.
Domain Decomposition Strategy for Combining Nonlinear and Linear Reduced-Order Models
Authors: Iyengar Nikhil , Rajaram Dushhyanth , Mavris Dimitri
Published: January 2024

Increasingly ubiquitous reliance on expensive, high-fidelity numerical simulations has led to the emergence of reduced-order modeling as an effective method to predict high-dimensional, spatially discretized field outputs in an efficient manner. This study presents a method to construct parametric, nonintrusive reduced-order models (ROMs) by leveraging domain decomposition (DD) to enable using multiple dimension reduction (DR) techniques within different spatial subdomains of the field to construct a single predictive ROM. To enforce smoothness of solutions across subdomains, points at domain interfaces are reconstructed using the data-driven gappy proper orthogonal decomposition method. The method is assessed on three high-dimensional test cases with shocks, including one with two-dimensional turbulent flow around the RAE2822. Results show that fully nonlinear ROMs predict fields more accurately in the vicinity of discontinuous features compared to their linear counterparts, which are more accurate in regions that are far from these discontinuities. Furthermore, irrespective of the DR method, DD-based ROMs outperformed their global counterparts in all test cases. Finally, models that used a combination of DR methods simultaneously showed superior performance near shockwaves and a significant improvement in total error compared to existing approaches that employ a single DR method in all subdomains.
Multivariate Signal Prediction Using Attention Transfer Learning for Early Detection of Thermoacoustic Instabilities
Authors: Lyu Zengyi , Fang Yuanqi , Ren Zhuyin , Wang Gaofeng
Published: January 2024

The prediction and control of thermoacoustic instability play a crucial role in combustion systems. This paper presents a novel methodology that employs attention transfer learning for the prediction of multivariate thermoacoustic signals, including acoustic pressure and heat release rate. By leveraging attention transfer learning, the proposed model can be generalized to thermoacoustic signal prediction under a variety of conditions with little additional training resources. Experimental data from various conditions in annular combustors are employed to evaluate the predictive performance of the model. The results demonstrate its ability to accurately predict future pressure signals over a wide-ranging time horizon while maintaining consistent dynamics, thus providing valuable information for active control. The proposed model is expected to be an effective step toward a data-driven solution for the early detection of thermoacoustic instability.
Portulan Club expedition to the Munku-Sardyk region in 2021
Authors:   Irkutsk State University, Kovalenko S.N. , Kitov A.D. ,   Sochava Institute of Geography, CO RAS, Akulova Yu.V. ,   Irkutsk State University
Published: January 2024

The results of the summer expedition 2020 of the student teaching club "Portulan" together with the staff of the Institute of Geography of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences to the Munku-Sardyk mountain area, where the field research of nival-glacial formations, river and slope aufeis, slope forms of relief and processes of their formation in the valleys of the Bely Irkut, Bugovek and Muguvek rivers were carried out, are summarized: regime surveys of high altitude aufeis, as well as traditional weather monitoring and study of the rock stream "Active".
Upper Miocene-Pliocene Sediments of Pra-Anosovka as Source of Pra-Manzurka Alluvium: Before-Baikalian Transfer of Clastic Material through the South Baikal Basin
Authors:   Irkutsk State University, Rasskazov S.V. ,   Institute of the Earth's Crust SB RAS, Reshetova S.A. ,   A.P. Vinogradov Institute of Geochemistry, SB RAS, Yasnygina T.A. ,   Institute of the Earth's Crust SB RAS, Chuvashova I.S. ,   Irkutsk State University,   Institute of the Earth's Crust SB RAS, Saranina E.V. ,   Institute of the Earth's Crust SB RAS,   A.P. Vinogradov Institute of Geochemistry, SB RAS, Rubtsova M.N. ,   Institute of the Earth's Crust SB RAS, Al Hamoud A. ,   Institute of the Earth's Crust SB RAS, Hassan A. ,   Irkutsk State University,   Institute of the Earth's Crust SB RAS
Published: January 2024

The Upper Miocene-Pliocene sediments of the Anosovka section are described on the southern coast of Lake Baikal. In the lower (Upper Miocene) stratum of the sediments, a Co/Th anomaly is detected. It is proposed that the Pra-Anosovka sedimentary material with the Co/Th anomaly served as one of the sources for alluvium in the Pra-Manzurka valley on its northwestern coast.