bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser-based production of carbon fibers
Authors: Lott Philipp , Stollenwerk Jochen , Wissenbach Konrad
Published: February 2015

Carbon fiber reinforced plastics are excellent materials for applications in lightweight constructions in the automobile or aviation sectors due to their 2.5-fold higher specific strength compared to aluminum. However, the high manufacturing costs of carbon fibers are one of the main limiting factors for the exploration of new fields of applications. The precursor fibers mostly consist of polyacrylonitrile which is transformed into carbon fibers in furnace processes. Almost one half of the manufacturing costs can be assigned to the stabilization and carbonization of the carbonaceous precursor fibers. The furnace processes takes up to 2 h and produces high energy costs due to the needed temperatures of about 1500 °C. In this paper, a new laser-based manufacturing process for carbon fibers is presented. The process is developed at the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT) and shows potential for the implementation of a fabrication process with reduced energy and time costs compared to the conventional furnace based approach. Furthermore, the fiber stabilization can now be realized with higher heating rates. Thus, shorter stabilization times are potentially needed. The exothermal energy from the stabilization reaction can be extracted more efficiently via the cool ambient air which reduces the risk of thermal damage of the fibers tremendously. Furthermore, the excellent adjustability of the spatial and temporal energy deposition via laser allows an adaptive process control which has the potential to fabricate fibers with increased mechanical properties in shorter times. First investigations of the stabilization process indicate that a careful choice of the process parameters allows for inducing distinct temperature profiles in the fibers which influences the resulting carbon fiber structure. Furthermore, first investigations on laser-based carbonization show that the fabrication of fibers with tensile force of up to 8 cN is possible.
Conservation of Great Bustard (Otis Tarda) Population of the Mosoni-Plain - A Success Story
Authors: Faragó Sandor , Spakovszky Péter , Raab Rainer
Published: February 2015

At the turn of the 19-20th centuries, the Great Bustard population of the Kisalföld (Little Hungarian Plain) numbered 4000 specimens. By 1990, only about 100 individuals remained in the Hungarian and Austrian territories. Of the many possible negative factors of current times, the greatest pressure on the Great Bustard population stems from unfavorable crop structures, extensive use of intensive agricultural technologies and predation. During the past decades, we have seen a shift in nesting place locations from natural-like habitats to agrar-type habitats. This change may be explained by the more favorable structure and microclimate of this latter habitat type paralleled with greater food source availability. In order to escape this ecological trap, we have to engage in active conflict resolution that provides protection the region's Bustard population.

For this very reason, the MOSON Project was founded in 1992 at the northern part of the Mosoni-Plain in the territory of Lajta-Hanság Co. Later, several Austrian regions joined the project. On these territories, out of the above mentioned 100 specimens, only 20 birds lived at the time. As the result of active habitat management of Great Bustards and coexisting small game species (mostly due to the influence of set-aside areas) as well as effective predator control (especially the Red Fox) resulted in an increase of the Great Bustard population. By the end of the 1990's, the population grew to 120-130 individuals which number was limited by the carrying capacity of this territory. Consequently, the species continued to reoccupy new regions in the Hungarian and Austrian territories. These days, the number of Great Bustards in these protected regions is estimated to be 400 individuals.

In 1998, the Mosoni-plain was given IBA (HU-001) status, and in 2004, the region was protected under the Natura 2000 EU nature conservation network.
Key Mortality Causes of the Great Bustard (Otis Tarda) in Central Hungary: An Analysis of Known Fatalities
Authors: Vadász Csaba , Lóránt Miklós
Published: February 2015

In this study, we identified the key mortality causes of eggs, juveniles and adults of the Great Bustard (Otis tarda) and quantified the relative importance of those, based on systematic data collection that have been carried out during the period between 2005 and 2014 at the Upper-Kiskunság region in Central Hungary. Rate of mortality regarding juveniles and adults was 39.71% caused by anthropogenic factors. Within the anthropogenic factors leading to mortality, collision was represented by 81.48% of fatalities, whereas mowing/hay making represented by 18.52%. Hay making/mowing was the factor leading to unsuccessful breeding attempt with the strongest negative effect on the breeding success of the investigated population of the Great Bustard, as it was represented by 50.96% of all known mortality cases. Chemical treatment had the factor with the second strongest effect, as it was represented by 12.33% of all known mortality cases. The rate of unsuccessful breeding (hatching) caused by particular activities (hay making/mowing, tillage, harvesting) varied between 68.42% and 75.00%. It was the disturbance by passers-by which led to the highest portion of unsuccessful breeding with 83.33% unsuccessful nests.
A Case of Intraspecific Killing in Passerines: The House Sparrow (Passer Domesticus)
Authors: Halliez Guillaume , Lucie Becel Clémence Marie
Published: February 2015

Even if intraspecific conflict is a well-known behaviour in birds, intraspecific killing among passerines is very rare in the literature. Cases of intraspecific predation among passerines constitute a very small percentage of published reports, and many of the cases are based on circumstantial evidence. In March 2013, we witnessed a group of House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) kill a conspecific male adult in the village of Gonsans (France, Doubs department). During the reproductive season three explanations of others studies (lack of food, weak condition and territorial behaviour during) could be relevant in our case. In conclusion, it appears that our observation is a very rare one and the second one for the House Sparrow.
Supplementation of different concentrations of Orvus Es Paste (OEP) to ostrich egg yolk lipoprotein extender improves post-thaw boar semen quality
Authors: Fraser L. , Jasiewicz E. , Kordan W.
Published: February 2015

This study aimed to compare post-thaw quality of boar semen following freezing in an ostrich egg yolk lipoprotein (LPFo) extender supplemented with 0%, 0.25% and 0.50% Orvus Es Paste (OEP). Sperm assessments included total motility (TMOT), mitochondrial function (MF), plasma membrane integrity (PMI) and acrosome integrity (normal apical ridge, NAR). Considerable variations among boars and OEP treatments had a significant effect (P < 0.001) on post-thaw sperm characteristics. It was observed that post-thaw sperm characteristics were significantly compromised in semen samples frozen in the absence of OEP. By contrast, lactose-LPFo-glycerol extender supplemented with either 0.25% OEP or 0.50% OEP markedly enhanced post-thaw sperm characteristics. In all boars, there were no marked differences in post-thaw sperm TMOT between the freezing extenders supplemented with 0.25% and 0.50% OEP. However, a decline in the percentage of post-thaw motile spermatozoa was more pronounced in the extender supplemented with 0.50% OEP following a 120-min incubation period. Furthermore, the proportions of frozen-thawed spermatozoa with MF, PMI and NAR acrosomes varied significantly among the boars in the OEP-supplemented extenders. The findings of this study indicate that different OEP concentrations, in the presence of ostrich egg yolk lipoproteins, could have varying effects on post-thaw sperm survival
The genetic analysis of new Polish strains of European brown hare syndrome virus
Authors: Kwit E. , Chrobocińska M. , Grądzki Z. , Jarosz Ł. , Majer-Dziedzic B. , Bigoraj E.
Published: February 2015

In this paper we describe recently occurring outbreaks of European brown hare syndrome (EBHS) in a captive hare population. The aim of our study was to evaluate the phylogenetic position of detected Polish strains compared to other European strains of EBHSV. Investigations were undertaken in hares from different provinces of Poland. Liver or spleen samples were tested for viral RNA using the RT-nested PCR method and the products were subsequently sequenced. The genetic analysis was based on the fragment of gene encoding viral capsid protein; it revealed a high homology and close relationship between Polish and European EBHSV strains isolated between 2001 and 2011
Diagnosis of the Encephalitozoon cuniculi infections in pet rabbits with neurological symptoms
Authors: Ziętek J. , Adaszek Ł. , Dzięgiel B. , Kalinowski M. , Bartnicki M. , Kalinowska A. , Jarosz Ł. , Winiarczyk S.
Published: February 2015

The purpose of the study was the in vivo diagnosing of E. cuniculi invasions in pet rabbits with neurological symptoms using the Real-Time PCR, and determination of the rate of invasion, in this group of animals. The study involved 103 pet rabbits with neurological symptoms. Parasitic invasions were diagnosed using Real-Time PCR. The DNA of the parasites for molecular tests was isolated from the urine of the diseased animals. Out of the 103 tested DNA samples, the presence of the E. cuniculi genetic material was detected in 27 samples (26.21%). The melting temperature (Tm) of all products was 77.5oC. The presence of parasitic DNA in the urine of 26.21% of examined animals indicates that E. cuniculi infections occur widely in pet rabbits in Poland and are a significant cause of neurological disorders in those animals
Fluoxetine (SSRI) treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial
Authors: Fujimura M. , Ishimaru H. , Nakatsuji Y.
Published: February 2015

This study investigated effects of a fluoxetine (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; SSRI, 1 mg/kg) on pruritus in canine atopic dermatitis (CAD). After 4-weeks of base-line observation, 8 dogs with CAD entered a 2-months randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial comparing fluoxetine with placebo. Clinical efficacy was evaluated using a Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI-03) and Pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS). Six dogs completed the study [two out of eight dogs (both of them were Shiba Inu) dropped out from the study due to a depression]. CADESI-03 and PVAS between fluoxetine and placebo showed no significant difference statistically (P>0.05 and P>0.05 respectively). Fluoxetine showed no efficacy on pruritus in CAD. Further researches are needed for the treatment on pruritus of CAD
Distribution of classical enterotoxin genes in staphylococci from milk of cows withand without mastitis and the cowshed environment
Authors: Piechota M. , Kot B. , Zdunek E. , Mitrus J. , Wicha J. , Wolska M. K.
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to analyze by PCR 185 isolates of Staphylococcus from milk of cows with- and without mastitis and from the cowsheds environment for their potential ability to produce five classical staphylococcal enterotoxins. Among S. aureus isolates 8 (32%) carried enterotoxin genes and only 2 of them had more than one gene. The enterotoxin genes were detected in 22 (13.7%) coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) isolates, among them in 9 (11.4%) isolates of S. xylosus, 5 (16.7%) S. sciuri, 3 (10.3%) S. epidermidis and in 5 (22.7%) Staphylococcus spp. In some CNS 2 or 3 genes were detected simultaneously. Among the investigated enterotoxin genes, sec was the most prevalent (70%). The genes encoding enterotoxin B and D were detected in 5 (16.7%) and 6 (20%) isolates, respectively. The lowest number of isolates had sea and see genes.

The genes encoding enterotoxins were often identified in staphylococci from milk of cows with mastitis (73.4% of detected genes), while only 6 (20%) isolates from milk of cows without mastitis and 2 (6.6%) isolates from cowshed environment were positive for enterotoxin genes.

The results showed that CNS from bovine milk, like S. aureus, carried enterotoxin genes and may pose a risk for public health.
Insight into behavior of epithelial cells of the feline conjunctiva in chronic conjunctivitis as a possible limitation in detection of Chlamydophila spp.
Authors: Kiełbowicz Z. , Płoneczka-Janeczko K. , Kuropka P.
Published: February 2015

The aims of this work was documentation of the reactivity of feline conjunctival epithelial cells in chronic conjunctivitis and the investigation of a possible correlation of histological findings in conjunctiva with a limitation in detection of the pathogen. In this observational study, conjunctival swab samples collected from six cats suffering from chronic conjunctivitis were monitored for Chlamydophila spp. infection for one month, every ten days. Chlamydophilosis was diagnosed by conventional PCR, and confirmed by sequencing analysis. A lack of coherence with results in subsequent studies using PCR did not allow an accurate diagnosis. Additional bioptat samples of conjunctiva were collected for diagnostic purposes and stained in haematoxylin and eosin following the Giemsa method for light microscopic analysis. Additionally the samples were incubated for 15 min with IMAGENTM Chlamydia conjugate (IMAGENTM Chlamydia reagent kit, Dako, UK), allowing immunofluorescence detection of Chlamydophila spp. Within the epithelium an increased number of goblet cells, as well as general enlargement of the epithelium and a reduced number of normal epithelial cells, was observed. Only in areas of low epithelium could structures similar to the elementary bodies of Chlamydophila spp. be distinguished. The presented data document a possible limitation in molecular evidence for chlamydophila infection in some naturally infected cats, taking into account histological conditions in conjunctiva at the same time.
Expression of NK1 receptor at the protein and mRNA level in the porcine female reproductive system
Authors: Bukowski R.
Published: February 2015

The presence and distribution of substance P (SP) receptor NK1 was studied in the ovary, the oviduct and the uterus (uterine horn and cervix) of the domestic pig using the methods of molecular biology (RT-PCR and immunoblot) and immunohistochemistry.

The expression of NK1 receptor at mRNA level was confirmed with RT-PCR in all the studied parts of the porcine female reproductive system by the presence of 525 bp PCR product and at the protein level by the detection of 46 kDa protein band in immunoblot. Immunohistochemical staining revealed the cellular distribution of NK1 receptor protein. In the ovary NKI receptor was present in the wall of arterial blood vessels, as well as in ovarian follicles of different stages of development. In the tubular organs the NK1 receptor immunohistochemical stainings were observed in the wall of the arterial blood vessels, in the muscular membrane, as well as in the mucosal epithelium.

The study confirmed the presence of NK1 receptor in the tissues of the porcine female reproductive tract which clearly points to the possibility that SP can influence porcine ovary, oviduct and uterus.
Sonoelastography in differentiation of benign and malignant testicular lesion in dogs
Authors: Glińska-Suchocka K. , Jankowski M. , Kubiak K. , Spużak J. , Dzimira S.
Published: February 2015

Present study aimed to evaluae the elasticity of tumorous testicular lesions and usefulness of the elastographic examination for diagnosing lesions in the testes. The study was carried out on nine dogs in which tumorous testicular lesions had been found in the ultrasonographic examination. In all the animals examined, the elastographic examination of the lesions was performed and then castration and the histopathological examination of specimens in order to determine the type of the changes. On the basis of the results of the histopathological examination the dogs were divided into two groups: group I - consisted of three dogs in which nonneoplastic testicular lesions were found and group II comprised six dogs in which neoplasic lesions that began in testicular interstitial cells (Leydigoma) were detected. The lesions observed in dogs of group I showed low stiffness (average 11.25 kPa, range 6.1 to 16.4 kPa), whereas the lesions found in dogs of group II were characterized by high stiffness (average 91.85 kPa, range 52.3 to 131.4 kPa). On the basis of a scale proposed by Goodie et al. (2012), the lesions in group I were in the range of SC1,and in turn, the lesions in group II were in the range of SC 3 inverted. Based on the results obtained, it can be stated that the sonoelastographic examination is useful method for the screening diagnostics of testicular lesions.
Correlations between cholesterol content, fatty acid composition and health lipid indices in fat of chosen tissues and organs of finishing pigs
Authors: Grela E. R. , Hanczakowska E. , Kowalczuk-Vasilev E.
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to estimate fatty acid composition, health related lipid indices (atherogenic-AI and thrombogenic-IT indices, h/H ratio) and the correlation between these traits and cholesterol content in various tissues of fatteners. The experiment involved 60 crossbred pigs (PL × PLW) × Duroc. The animals were slaughtered at 115 ± 2.0 kg body weight. The tissue samples (backfat, m. longissimus, liver, heart) were collected to analyze fatty acid profile and cholesterol content. The highest PUFA level was determined in the fat of the heart and liver. Weak to moderate correlations were observed between cholesterol content and most of the studied indices of fatty acid profile of the analyzed tissues. Importantly, the most significant correlations were established between the examined traits in the heart fat. Generally, irrespective of tissue type, the cholesterol level was negatively correlated with total PUFA, n-3 and n-6 FA content and h/H ratio.
A retrospective study of the occurrence of Chronic Superficial Keratitis in 308 German Shepherd dogs: 1999-2010
Authors: Drahovska Z. , Balicki I. , Trbolova A. , Mihalova M. , Holickova M.
Published: February 2015

Chronic Superficial Keratitis (CSK) is an autoimmune mediated inflammation of the cornea, that is usually bilateral but often with nonsymmetrical manifestation.

The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence and appearance of clinical symptoms of CSK in German Shepherd dogs in Poland and Slovakia.

CSK was diagnosed in 308 German Shepherds for a period of 11 years (from 1999 to 2010). The highest incidence of the CSK (p < 0.001) in Slovakia and in Poland was in dogs between the ages of 5-8 years. This study found similarity in gender ratio of affected patients with CSK in two neighboring countries. This disease occurs most often in males, with almost identical frequency in both countries, Slovakia 65.63% and Poland 61.32%, respectively. The incidence of depigmentation and thickening of the external surface of the third eyelid together with CSK was observed in 69.19% of dogs in Poland and in 63.15% of dogs in Slovakia. CSK is often recognized in advanced stage-affected areas with inflammatory process by CSK, obtained frequently from 2 to 3 quadrants.
The effect of in vivo exposure to zearalenone on cytokine secretion by Th1 and Th2 lymphocytes in porcine Peyer’s patches after in vitro stimulation with LPS
Authors: Obremski K.
Published: February 2015

Most research studies investigating the estrogenic effects of zearalenone (ZEN) focus on the mycotoxin’s effect on the reproductive system. Since estrogen receptors are present on various types of immunocompetent cells, ZEN can also modify diverse immune functions. This study analyzed immunocompetent cells isolated from Peyer’s patches in the ileum of pigs administered ZEN in the estimated daily dose of 8 μg kg-1 BW (equivalent of 100 μg kg-1 feed per day-1). The objective of the study was to determine whether long-term exposure to low ZEN doses below the NOEL threshold leads to changes in the percentages of lymphocyte subpopulations and cytokine secretion by Th1 (IL-2, IFN-γ) and Th2 (IL-4 and IL-10) lymphocytes in Peyer’s patches of the ileum after in vitro stimulation with lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Immunocompetent cells isolated from Payer’s patches on experimental days 0, 14, 28 and 42 were cultured in vitro and stimulated with LPS. The presence of IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-10 in culture media was determined by the ELISA method. The results of the study indicate that ZEN inhibits IL-2 and IFN-γ secretion and stimulates IL-4 and IL-10 production by Th1 and Th2 lymphocytes by shifting the Th1/Th2 balance towards the humoral immune response. The above can promote allergic responses, as demonstrated by the increase in the size of B1 cell populations producing more autoantibodies. ZEN can also lower resistance to viruses and tumors by inhibiting the proliferation of NK cells and IFN-γ secretion.
Epidemiology of African Swine Fever in Poland since the detection of the first case
Authors: Pejsak Z. , Truszczyński M. , Niemczuk K. , Kozak E. , Markowska-Daniel I.
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this paper is to provide characteristics of the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Poland from February to August, 2014. The samples from dead wild boar and domestic pigs were submitted to the National Veterinary Research Institute, National Reference Laboratory for ASF in Pulawy, Poland, for testing by PCR and ELISA methods. In the studied period, fourteen cases of ASF in wild boar and two outbreaks in backyard pigs were confirmed. In addition to the results of laboratory tests performed in 2014, the article describes the ASF surveillance programme in wild boar and pigs in Poland carried out in 2011-2013. The spread of ASF in Poland is compared with the epidemiological situation in Lithuania, Latvia, Belarus and the Russian Federation.
The effect of macrogol administration on the quality of macroscopic images and transit time in canine capsule endoscopy
Authors: Rychlik A. , Nowicki M. , Kander M. , Szweda M.
Published: February 2015

The present experiment evaluated the quality of macroscopic images and the mean time of capsule passage through different sections of the gastrointestinal tract in dogs subjected to different preparation protocols before capsule endoscopy. In the first examination, the colonoscopy preparation protocol was applied, and in the second examination, the animals were administered macrogol. The study revealed that macrogol administration before capsule endoscopy significantly improved the quality of macroscopic images. The colonoscopy preparation protocol may not support accurate visualization of the large bowel mucosa and, in selected patients, also the small bowel mucosa. Macrogol administration had no effect on capsule transit time through the alimentary canal. Capsules used in endoscopic evaluations of the small bowel in humans may have limited applications in macroscopic examinations of large bowel mucosa in dogs.
Changes in physiological and immunological parameters during the peripartum period in Zerasca sheep
Authors: Giuliotti L. , Lai O. , Cavallina R. , Alfieri L. , Rabusca G. , Benvenuti M.N.
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to provide the picture of the dynamics of some blood parameters in the native Zerasca sheep breed during the peripartum period. Blood samples were collected from peripheral blood of 14 ewes at different times: from 21 d before lambing to 42 d after. Physiological and immunological parameters were evaluated: aspartate-aminotransferase, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, non-esterified fatty acids, total protein, total antioxidant capacity, free radicals, serum bactericidal activity and serum lysozyme. One-way repeated measures ANOVA test was performed. Results showed a significant influence of the peripartum and the deviation from the normal range on many parameters.
Autonomic drugs in the treatment of canine and feline glaucoma – Part II: Medications that lower intraocular pressure by reducing aqueous humour production
Authors: Maślanka T.
Published: February 2015

One characteristic of the most common types of glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which has a damaging effect on optic nerve axons, leading to progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells. Therefore, ocular hypotensive drugs are the mainstay of pharmacological therapy for glaucoma. This review article, which is the second part of a two-part series, is dedicated to autonomic drugs which lower IOP by decreasing the aqueous humour production. These agents are subdivided into two groups: β-adrenergic antagonists and selective α2-adrenergic agonists. This paper summarizes the current state of knowledge on the mechanism of action of these drugs and their effect on IOP in dogs and cats. Moreover, it discusses their possible undesirable side effects of these medications and presents the current ideas about their role and position in the medical management of glaucoma in small animals.
Effectiveness of influenza vaccination programme in preventing hospital admissions, Valencia, 2014/15 early results
Authors: Puig-Barberà J , Mira-Iglesias A , Tortajada-Girbés M , López-Labrador F X , Belenguer-Varea A , Carballido-Fernández M , Carbonell-Franco E , Carratalá-Munuera C , Limón-Ramírez R , Mollar-Maseres J , del Carmen Otero-Reigada M , Schwarz-Chavarri G , Tuells J , Gil-Guillén V ,   for the Valencia Hospital Network for the Study of Influenza and Respiratory Viruses Disease
Published: February 2015

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Effects of season on occupancy and implications for habitat modeling: the Pacific marten Martes caurina
Authors: Zielinski William J. , Moriarty Katie M. , Baldwin Jim , Kirk Thomas A. , Slauson Keith M. , Rustigian‐Romsos Heather L. , Spencer Wayne D.
Published: February 2015

Season affects many characteristics of populations and, as a result, the interpretations of surveys conducted at different seasons. We explored seasonal variation in occupancy using data from four studies on the Pacific marten Martes caurina. Detection surveys were conducted during winter and summer using either cameras or track stations. We conducted a ‘multiple location, paired season’ analysis using data from all four study areas and a ‘multiple season’ analysis using seasonally replicated occupancy data collected at one of the areas. In the former analysis, summer occupancy estimates were significantly lower than winter and per visit probabilities of detection were indistinguishable between seasons. The probabilities of detection for the complete survey protocol were high (0.83 summer, 0.95 winter). Where summer and winter surveys were replicated, probability of occupancy was > 5 times higher in winter (0.52) than summer (0.09). We considered the effect of seasonal variation in occupancy on the habitat models developed using summer and winter survey data. Using the same habitat suitability threshold (0.5), the weighted average of winter models predicted significantly more suitable habitat than summer models. The habitat predicted by the summer model was at higher elevation, and was distributed among more, and smaller, patches of habitat than the model developed using winter data. We expect a similar magnitude of differences if summer or winter data were used to monitor occupancy. The higher occupancy in winter is probably due to the abundance of young animals detected during dispersal. Summer survey results reflect the distribution of territory‐holding adults, thus these surveys may reliably detect breeding individuals and represent reproductive habitat. The implications of season on the interpretation of survey results, and corresponding habitat models and monitoring programs, provide a challenge to managers that make decisions about habitat management for martens, and other species with disparate occupancy among seasons.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for brain tumors in infants and young children
Authors: Iwama Junya , Ogiwara Hideki , Kiyotani Chikako , Terashima Keita , Matsuoka Kentaro , Iwafuchi Hideto , Morota Nobuhito
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

Because of their large size and high vascularity, complete removal of brain tumors in infants and young children is often difficult. In most cases the degree of resection is associated with prognosis. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may facilitate resection by reducing the vascularity of the tumor. The authors evaluated the effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the management of these tumors.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective review of infants and young children who underwent tumor removal after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Nine consecutive patients underwent resection after neoadjuvant chemotherapy during the period February 2004 to December 2012. The mean age at diagnosis was 18 months (range 2–50 months). The average largest tumor diameter was 71 mm (range 30–130 mm) at initial surgery. Five patients underwent partial resection, and 4 underwent biopsy as the initial surgery. The histopathological diagnoses were ependymoma in 2 patients, anaplastic ependymoma in 1, primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) in 2, choroid plexus carcinoma in 1, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) in 1, glioblastoma in 1, and embryonal tumor with abundant neuropil and true rosettes in 1. After 2–4 courses of multiagent chemotherapy (mainly with vincristine, cyclophosphamide, etoposide, and cisplatin), the second-look surgery was performed. In 1 patient with a PNET, intratumoral hemorrhage was observed after 2 courses of chemotherapy. The mean interval between the initial and the second-look surgery was 3 months. The tumor volume was reduced to varying degrees in 5 patients (56%) after chemotherapy. Intraoperatively, the vascularity of the tumor was considerably reduced, and the tumor was more circumscribed in all cases. Gross-total resection was achieved in 8 patients (89%) and neartotal resection in 1 (11%). Histopathological examination demonstrated fibrotic tissue circumscribing the tumor in 6 of 9 cases (67%). The average blood loss was 20% of the estimated blood volume, and 3 patients (33%) required a blood transfusion. There was no surgical mortality. One patient had transient dysphasia postoperatively. The mean follow-up period was 28 months. At the last follow-up, 2 patients (22%) had died (1 died of tumor progression and 1 of sepsis), and 4 patients (44%) had no tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for brain tumors in infants and young children was effective in reduction of tumor vascularity and clarification of the tumor-brain interface, which significantly facilitated maximal tumor resection.
Consistent delayed unilateral neuronal death after modified transient focal cerebral ischemia in mice that mimics neuronal injury after transient global cerebral ischemia
Authors: Nishijima Yasuo , Niizuma Kuniyasu , Fujimura Miki , Akamatsu Yosuke , Shimizu Hiroaki , Tominaga Teiji
Published: February 2015

OBJECT

Numerous studies have attempted to reveal the pathophysiology of ischemic neuronal injury using a representative transient global cerebral ischemia (tGCI) model in rodents; however, most of them have used gerbil or rat models. Recent advances in transgene and gene-knockout technology have enabled the precise molecular mechanisms of ischemic brain injury to be investigated. Because the predominant species for the study of genetic mutations is the mouse, a representative mouse model of tGCI is of particular importance. However, simple mouse models of tGCI are less reproducible; therefore, a more complex process or longer duration of ischemia, which causes a high mortality rate, has been used in previous tGCI models in mice. In this study, the authors aimed to overcome these problems and attempted to produce consistent unilateral delayed hippocampal CA1 neuronal death in mice.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were subjected to short-term unilateral cerebral ischemia using a 4-mm silicone-coated intraluminal suture to obstruct the origin of the posterior cerebral artery (PCA), and regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) of the PCA territory was measured using laser speckle flowmetry. The mice were randomly assigned to groups of different ischemic durations and histologically evaluated at different time points after ischemia. The survival rate and neurological score of the group that experienced 15 minutes of ischemia were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Consistent neuronal death was observed in the medial CA1 subregion 4 days after 15 minutes of ischemia in the group of mice with a reduction in rCBF of < 65% in the PCA territory during ischemia. Morphologically degenerated cells were mostly positive for terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling and cleaved caspase 3 staining 4 days after ischemia. The survival rates of the mice 24 hours (n = 24), 4 days (n = 15), and 7 days (n = 7) after being subjected to 15 minutes of ischemia were 95.8%, 100%, and 100%, respectively, and the mice had slight motor deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors established a model of delayed unilateral hippocampal neuronal death in C57BL/6 mice by inducing ischemia in the PCA territory using an intraluminal suture method and established inclusion criteria for PCAterritory rCBF monitored by laser speckle flowmetry. This model may be useful for investigating the precise molecular mechanisms of ischemic brain injury.
Immune Potentiating role of Protein, Probiotic and Symbiotic Supplementation in Moulted White Leghorn Hens
Authors: Anwar H. , Rahman Z.U. , Javed I. , Muhammad F.
Published: February 2015

This study investigated the effects of high protein, probiotic and symbiotic supplementation on the immunity of culled moulted White Leghorn hens. Cage-housed hens ( n = 240) aged about 70 weeks were moulted by including zinc in the diet. The moulted hens were randomly divided in four treatment groups: control group (G1; CP 16% in basal diet), high protein group (G2; CP 18% in basal diet), probiotic supplemented group (G3; symbiotic at a dose rate of 85 mg L−1 in drinking water + CP 16% in basal diet), and symbiotic group (G4; probiotic at a dose rate of 85 mg L−1 in drinking water + CP 16% in basal diet). Ten birds from each group were euthanised at 5% peak (5P), full peak (FP), and end of production (EP). Blood samples were taken for serum to estimate geometric mean antibody titre (GMT) against Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and egg drop syndrome (EDS) virus. Macrophages were isolated from abdominal exudates (AE) to observe their engulfment response and their nitric oxide (NO) production. 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) was inoculated on the skin of five birds in each group to evaluate the delayed type hypersensitivity response by determining the skin thickness. The overall humoral antibody GMT against NDV in the groups was higher in G2, G3 and G3 compared to G1. GMT value against EDS was higher in G2 compared to G1. A significant increase ( P ≤ 0.01) in macrophage engulfment and NO production was seen in G2 and G4 compared to the G1. The DNCB inoculated skin thickness response remained higher ( P ≤ 0.01) in G2 until FP than the other groups. A diet rich in protein or supplemented with a probiotic or a symbiotic enhances the body immunity of moulted hens.
Do Wild Red-Legged Partridges (Alectoris rufa) Use Feeders? An Investigation of their Feeding Patterns using Camera Trapping
Authors: Armenteros J.A. , Sánchez-García C. , Prieto R. , Lomillos J.M. , Pérez J.A. , Alonso M.E. , Gaudioso V.R.
Published: February 2015

This paper explores feeding patterns of wild Red-legged Partridges ( Alectoris rufa) at artificial feeders, a common management action for game species. Feeders were studied during two consecutive periods from October 2009 to May 2011 in an agricultural area of northwest Spain. Camera trapping was used in order to assess climatic effects on weekly feeding patterns, investigate the influence of shrub cover on feed-site selection and evaluate behavioural patterns displayed when using feeders. Red-legged partridges used feeders throughout the study period, but particularly from December to February. No significant correlations were observed between the weekly number of photographs and climate conditions. A bimodal circadian feeding pattern was observed during daylight hours with peaks of activity in the morning and evening while, in central hours, the feeding visits decreased. We observed significant differences in the number of partridges photographed during the feeding visits along the study period. The use of feeders was not influenced by the presence of surrounding vegetation nor type of feeder. The behavioural analysis classified partridges in five different categories: feeding (33.5 and 32.3% for each period respectively), vigilance (26.8 and 30.7%), moving/unknown (25.9 and 20.6%), pecking/ dusting (11.2 and 15%) and other behaviours (2.8 and 1.8%). The percentage of vigilant birds photographed at feeders was not related to the covey size. This study demonstrates the use of the feeders by Red-legged Partridges but does not prove the potential benefits.
Prokaryotic Expression and Active Immunisation against Recombinant-Derived Prolactin Fusion Protein on Broodiness and Egg-Laying in Wanxi-White Goose
Authors: Xingyong Chen , Min Wang , Rou Li , Zhaoyu Geng
Published: February 2015

This experiment aims to produce a recombinant prolactin (rPRL) for use in immunising Wanxi-white goose and to determine the immunisation effects on broodiness and egg production. A stable prokaryotic expression system with rPRL obtained extra-cellularly was established. Wanxi-white geese (n = 100) performed broodiness were randomly divided into five groups (20 per group): group I was injected with saline as negative control, group II was orally administered with Bromocriptine as positive control, groups III, IV and V were subcutaneously injected with either 1, 2 or 4 mg·mL−1 rPRL, respectively. This process (FA-I) was repeated after interval of 10 days (SA-I). After FA-I, broodiness significantly decreased in groups III, IV and V compared to group I ( P < 0.01), while egg production showed no significant difference among groups. After SA-I, broodiness in group IV and V was significantly lower than that of other groups ( P < 0.05), and egg production percentage in group IV showed significantly higher than that of group III ( P < 0.05), but only numerically higher than that of other groups. Broodiness showed no difference among groups 10 days after SA-I, but broodiness was significantly increased to more than 20% in all groups. Serum prolactin concentrations showed high secretion in geese under broodiness and decreased in geese that wake up from broodiness after SA-I. In conclusion, active immunisation with rPRL decreased broodiness and increased egg production in Wanxi-white geese. However, the immune period was short, and the performance was significantly affected by environmental factors.
The Virtues of Acknowledged Ecological Dependence: Sustainability, Autonomy and Human Flourishing
Authors: Hannis Mike
Published: February 2015

An extension of Alasdair MacIntyre's concept of ‘virtues of acknowledged dependence', to include relationships with the non-human world, offers an organising principle for environmental virtue ethics. It situates ecological virtue among more traditional virtues of inter-human relationships, and may thereby contribute to an ethical reconciliation of policies aimed at encouraging ecological virtue with those aimed at protecting the freedoms required for personal autonomy. Within this eudaimonist framework, ecological virtue may be understood and promoted as directly contributing to a good life.
The Land Aesthetic, Holmes Rolston's Insight
Authors: Varandas Maria José
Published: February 2015

This paper focuses on natural aesthetics as it relates to an ecological ethics informed by Aldo Leopold and by two contemporary environmental ethicists inspired by him: Callicott and Rolston. By contrast to Callicott, Rolston's work emphasises the distinctive character of natural beauty and gives reasons to understand such beauty as foundational for acting morally in the natural world. This paper argues, on these theoretical grounds, that an informed natural aesthetics is a requirement of an environmental ethics on account of the co-relational link between the integrity, balance and beauty of the biotic community. This more objective foundation can better support conservationist movements in practice, bringing together natural beauty and duty in the pursuit of a closer harmony between humankind and the natural world.
Who is Making
Airag
(Fermented Mare's Milk)? A Nationwide Survey of Traditional Food in Mongolia
Authors: Bat-Oyun Tserenpurev , Erdenetsetseg Baasandai , Shinoda Masato , Ozaki Takahiro , Morinaga Yuki
Published: February 2015

Mongolian pastoral nomads traditionally consume meat during the cold season and milk products during the warm season. Among these is
airag
(fermented mare's milk), and Mongolia is one of the few regions that retains such traditional food. Through the Mongolian meteorological network, this is the first survey on
airag
, targeting 2,045 herders. We compared
airag
production between households producing it and households in general. Results revealed intensive production in central Mongolia, but less in surrounding areas, except along the western border. High horse-density in the central steppes and forest steppes provides an eco-climatological explanation, but this density pattern cannot explain inadequate production in eastern areas. Thus, culture and ethnicity may account for
airag
's regional distribution.
A Holistic Society Examined by Gender-Based Analysis, Focusing on a Wodaabe Family in East-Central Niger
Authors: Desray Fabienne
Published: February 2015

Distinguishing between the sexes and understanding the relations which are established between them raises questions that arise in every society, to the extent that, today, international institutions put forward gender politics as having universal relevance. In this paper, the concept of individual empowerment promoted in gender politics is set against the workings of an unusual pastoral society studied in Damergou, in East-Central Niger. The Fulani Wodaabe society in question was studied from a holistic viewpoint. This approach allows us to put forward the hypothesis that this pastoral society, seen through the lens of family life, is not organised along the lines of a gender binary with one or other sex dominant, but according to multiple hierarchies of status which complement each other to form a 'social whole'. This hypothesis is contrasted with the international institutional requirement to develop gender politics within every society, including holistic societies.
Using Geospatial Analysis to Assess the Influence of Land-Use Change and Conservation on Pastoralist Access to Drought Resources
Authors: Miller Brian W.
Published: February 2015

Drought resource areas (DRAs) maintain natural-resource availability during periods of low rainfall, and are critical for sustaining wildlife, livestock and human communities. This study analysed remote sensing data at two spatial scales in order to assess the distribution of DRAs relative to landuse changes and conservation efforts in East Africa. Results suggest that cultivation has exerted an especially strong influence on rangeland DRA availability across the Kenya/Tanzania border region, but conservation areas also contained a disproportionate area of DRAs. For a local scale within the region (the Simanjiro Plains and Tarangire National Park), DRAs were more evenly distributed across land-use zones, but available sites were generally on steeper slopes. Overall, the area of DRAs that were not cultivated or conserved was relatively small, accounting for about two per cent of the landscape. The area of DRAs available to pastoralist households is likely even smaller, considering that there are a variety of other factors affecting resource access (e.g. risks of livestock disease and conflict, forage quality, resource management institutions). These findings highlight the scarcity and significance of available DRAs within this iconic landscape. More broadly, this study, together with previous research on the topic, demonstrates that remote sensing and ethnographic methods can contribute complementary insights into issues of resource access.
UK DRAFFT: a randomised controlled trial of percutaneous fixation with Kirschner wires versus volar locking-plate fixation in the treatment of adult patients with a dorsally displaced fracture of the distal radius
Authors: Costa Matthew L , Achten Juul , Plant Caroline , Parsons Nick R , Rangan Amar , Tubeuf Sandy , Yu Ge , Lamb Sarah E
Published: February 2015

Background

In high-income countries, 6% of all women will have sustained a fracture of the wrist (distal radius) by the age of 80 years and 9% by the age of 90 years. Advances in orthopaedic surgery have improved the outcome for patients: many such fractures can be treated in a plaster cast alone, but others require surgical fixation to hold the bone in place while they heal. The existing evidence suggests that modern locking-plate fixation provides improved functional outcomes, but costs more than traditional wire fixation.

Methods

In this multicentre trial, we randomly assigned 461 adult patients having surgery for an acute dorsally displaced fracture of the distal radius to either percutaneous Kirschner-wire fixation or locking-plate fixation. The primary outcome measure was the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation©(PRWE) questionnaire at 12 months after the fracture. In this surgical trial, neither the patients nor the surgeons could be blind to the intervention. We also collected information on complications and combined costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) to assess cost-effectiveness.

Results

The baseline characteristics of the two groups were well balanced and over 90% of patients completed follow-up. Both groups of patients recovered wrist function by 12 months. There was no clinically relevant difference in the PRWE questionnaire score at 3 months, 6 months or 12 months [difference at 12 months: –1.3; 95% confidence interval (CI) –4.5 to 1.8;p = 0.398]. There was no difference in the number of complications in each group and small differences in QALY gains (0.008; 95% CI –0.001 to 0.018); Kirschner-wire fixation represents a cost-saving intervention (–£727; 95% CI –£588 to –£865), particularly in younger patients.

Conclusions

Contrary to the existing literature, and against the increasing use of locking-plate fixation, this trial shows that there is no difference between Kirschner wires and volar locking plates for patients with dorsally displaced fractures of the distal radius. A Kirschner-wire fixation is less expensive and quicker to perform.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN31379280.

Funding

This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full inHealth Technology Assessment; Vol. 19, No. 17. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
Methanol Poisoning: An Unusual Case of White Matter Changes on MRI
Authors: Cader F Aaysha , Das Aparna
Published: February 2015

Abstract not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jom.v16i1.22371 J MEDICINE 2015; 16 : 64-66