bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
How improvements in monitoring and safety practices lowered airborne formaldehyde concentrations at an Italian university hospital: a summary of 20 years of experience
Authors: Dugheri Stefano , Massi Daniela , Mucci Nicola , Berti Nicola , Cappelli Giovanni , Arcangeli Giulio 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The last two decades have been crucial for the assessment of airborne formaldehyde (FA) exposure in healthcare environments due to changes in limits and reference values, definition of carcinogenicity, and new monitoring methods. The aim of this study was to analyse twenty years (1999–2019) of experience in automatic, continuous airborne FA monitoring in the Pathology Laboratory and operating rooms at the Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy. These 20 years saw gradual improvements in FA monitoring of exposed employees considered at maximum risk, including improvements in analytical methods of detection and sampling strategies, which came with changes in procedures and workflow operations. In 2019, after the adoption of safe practices, including a closed-circuit system using pre-loaded containers and a vacuum sealing, 94 % of the total measurements (FA concentrations) were lower than 16 μg/m3, and only 6 % ranged from 21 to 75 μg/m3. In the studied work units, the ratio between area and personal readings ranged from 0.9 to 1.0, both for long and short-term sampling. Personal sampling was simplified with a new workstation, which integrated different monitoring systems into an innovative ergonomic armchair equipped with personal sampling devices. Area monitoring was also improved with a real-time, continuous photoacoustic instrument. Over these 20 years, FA exposure significantly dropped, which coincided with optimised histology workflow and implementation of safety practices. For high-throughput screening and cost savings we propose an innovative ergonomic armchair station which allows remote continuous monitoring.
Juniper and immortelle essential oils synergistically inhibit adhesion of nontuberculous mycobacteria to Acanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Peruč Dolores , Tićac Brigita , Broznić Dalibor , Gobin Ivana 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic protozoon, widespread in the aquatic environment, where it can be in endosymbiosis with over 30 pathogenic bacteria, including nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). Protozoa play a crucial role in mycobacterial pathogenesis and serve as a reservoir of infection. Since the first step in bacteria making contact with amoebae is adhesion, we were interested in investigating whether essential oils (EOs) can affect it. To that end we investigated the effects of juniper (Juniperus communis) and immortelle (Helichrysum italicum) EOs against Mycobacterium avium, M. intracellulare, and M. gordonae in tap water and against their adhesion to Acanthamoeba castellanii by combining them in synergistic EO concentrations. M. avium and M. intracellulare adhered to A. castellanii to a greater extent than M. gordonae. The adhesion of all NTMs was prevented by the subinhibitory concentrations of EOs. When comparing the effect of synergistic combinations of EOs and the effect of a single concentration from a combination, a higher percentage of adhesion inhibition in all synergistic combinations observed, except against M. gordonae. Neither oil was cytotoxic to A. castellanii. Our findings suggest that the EOs or their components weaken the contact of environmental NTMs and free-living amoebae and indirectly diminish their pathogenic potential, which could be of value in developing strategies for maintenance of water supply systems.
Toxicological aspects of increased use of surface and hand disinfectants in Croatia during the COVID-19 pandemic: a preliminary report
Authors: Babić Željka , Turk Rajka , Macan Jelena 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
All COVID-19 prevention strategies include regular use of surface disinfectants and hand sanitisers. As these measures took hold in Croatia, the Croatian Poison Control Centre started receiving phone calls from the general public and healthcare workers, which prompted us to investigate whether the risk of suspected/symptomatic poisonings with disinfectants and sanitisers really increased. To that end we compared their frequency and characteristics in the first half of 2019 and 2020. Cases of exposures to disinfectants doubled in the first half of 2020 (41 vs 21 cases in 2019), and exposure to sanitisers increased about nine times (46 vs 5 cases in 2019). In 2020, the most common ingredients of disinfectants and sanitisers involved in poisoning incidents were hypochlorite/glutaraldehyde, and ethanol/isopropyl alcohol, respectively. Exposures to disinfectants were recorded mostly in adults (56 %) as accidental (78 %) through ingestion or inhalation (86 %). Fortunately, most callers were asymptomatic (people called for advice because they were concerned), but nearly half reported mild gastrointestinal or respiratory irritation, and in one case severe symptoms were reported (gastrointestinal corrosive injury). Reports of exposure to hand sanitisers highlighted preschool children as the most vulnerable group. Accidental exposure through ingestion dominated, but, again, only mild symptoms (gastrointestinal or eye irritation) developed in one third of the cases. These preliminary findings, however limited, confirm that increased availability and use of disinfectants and sanitisers significantly increased the risk of poisoning, particularly in preschool children through accidental ingestion of hand sanitisers. We therefore believe that epidemiological recommendations for COVID-19 prevention should include warnings informing the general public of the risks of poisoning with surface and hand disinfectants in particular.
Body composition and lung function in adults with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: John Aleksandra , Goździk-Spychalska Joanna , Durda-Masny Magdalena , Czaiński Wojciech , Gębala Marta , Wlizło Jolanta , Batura-Gabryel Halina , Szwed Anita 
Published: October 2020

The study aimed to assess: (1) differences in nutritional status and lung function between CF patients and the control group; (2) differences in body composition and lung function between groups of patients with CF designated by type of mutation; (3) the relationship between lung function and body composition in CF patients.
We studied 37 CF patients aged 19 to 51 years, and 41 healthy non-CF volunteers. Nutritional status was evaluated based on the BMI and the bioelectrical impedance analysis. The lung function was described by FEV1%. CF patients were classified according to the CFTR genotype based on five classes of mutations.
BMI were lower in CF patients compared to reference group (women: Z = 3.76, p <0.001, men: Z = 3.06, p = 0.002). CF patients had a lower mean content of particular body components, as well as FEV1% values. BMI differed significantly depending on the type of mutation in females (H = 10.33, p = 0.006) and males (H = 8.26, p = 0.016). The lowest values of BMI were observed in the group of patients with severe types of mutations. Also, variables describing body composition were statistically significantly lower in patients with a severe type of mutations. The CFTR gene mutation type statistically significantly differentiated FEV1% (H = 23.22, p <0.000). The results of the logistic regression analysis showed that the likelihood of dropping FEV1% below the norm was twice as high in undernourished females and males.
To assess the nutritional status of CF patients, more informative methods describing the proportions of body components are required.
Effects of Caponization on Growth Performance and Meat Physicochemical Properties of Crossbred Chickens
Authors: Calik Jolanta , Świątkiewicz Sylwester , Obrzut Joanna , Połtowicz Katarzyna , Krawczyk Józefa 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The aim of the study was to determine the effect of caponizing on body weight and physicochemical properties of meat of the capons – hybrids obtained from the crossing of hens of the Yellowleg Partridge (Ż-33) breed with meat roosters. The study covered 80 hybrid roosters, which were randomly assigned to two groups of 40 animals each (8 boxes of 10 birds in each group). Group I (control) consisted of uncastrated roosters while group II included birds, which were castrated at 8 weeks of age under local anaesthesia by a vet. Birds were fed ad libitum with the same standard diets and kept on litter under optimal environmental conditions with a stocking density of 7 animals/ m2. At the end of fattening, i.e. in the 20th week of life, 8 birds with a body weight close to the group average were selected from each group for slaughter. After slaughter, the effectiveness of the procedure was checked (lack of testicles), then the slaughter performance of birds, physicochemical parameters of the pectoral and leg muscles were determined, and sensory evaluation was performed. The procedure of castration of hybrid roosters had a positive effect on body weight, feed conversion ratio and carcass traits. The pectoral and leg muscles of the capons were characterized by better water absorption, tenderness and sensory evaluation compared to roosters. Among the assessed groups of birds there was also a variation in the colouring of whole carcasses and muscles, which were lighter (L*), more yellow (b*) and less red (a*) in caponized birds. In addition, the castration procedure had a positive effect on the total protein content in both the pectoral and leg muscles, which in turn, with a higher raw fat content, were distinguished by a favourable ratio of n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Based on the results, it can be concluded that the hybrids obtained from the crossbreeding of the Yellowleg Partridge (Ż-33) and Ross 308 meat roosters are good choice for capon production. They can complement poultry meat production with a niche product for consumers looking for products of exceptional quality.
Study on growth enhancement and the protective effects of dietary prebiotic inulin on immunity responses of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fry infected with Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Ghafarifarsani Hamed , Rashidian Ghasem , Bagheri Tahereh , Hoseinifar Seyed Hossein , Van Doan Hien 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The present study evaluated the effects of dietary inulin on growth performance, body composition, serum, biochemical, and mucus immune factors; as well as innate immune responses of rainbow trout fry challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. Four diets were prepared using a commercially available fish feed as a basal diet and different levels of prebiotic inulin incorporation; 0 (control), 1, 2, and 3%; referred to as C, T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The findings of the 60-day feeding trial showed that inulin inclusion affected final weight, food conversion rate (FCR), and specific growth rate (SGR) compared to that of the control group (P < 0.05), in which the lowest FCR was observed in T3. Body composition analysis revealed that inulin significantly increased protein content and decreased lipid levels, especially in the T1 and T2 groups. The lowest ash level was noticed in T2 (P < 0.05). Blood total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, and glucose were not affected by inulin supplementation (P > 0.05). Analysis of humoral immune responses showed that the inulin supplements significantly increased lysozyme and complement activities (P < 0.05), as well as higher red blood cell count (RBC) and hemoglobin (Hb) in fish, fed 2% inulin, while no significant differences were observed among other treatments (P > 0.05). The mucosal parameters; including lysozyme, alkaline phosphatase (excluding ACH50); protease activities; and total immunoglobulin (IgM) improved significantly (P < 0.05), particularly in the T2 group. The T2 group also demonstrated the highest survival rate among all groups. The present findings indicate that dietary administration of inulin promotes growth and biochemical parameters, as well as serum immunity and mucosal immune responses of rainbow trout, in which a 2% inclusion produced the best results.
Singular effects of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 or Saccharomyces cerevisiae type 1 on the growth, gut morphology, immunity, and stress resistance of red sea bream (Pagrus major)
Authors: Zaineldin Amr I. , Hegazi Sayed , Koshio Shunsuke , Ishikawa Manabu , Dawood Mahmoud A.O. , Dossou Serge , Yukun Zhang , Mzengereza Kumbukani 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The beneficial effects of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae type 1 were tested in red sea bream (Pagrus major) feeds. A basal diet (control) and two other diets were prepared by supplementation with B. subtilis C-3102 (PB) or S. cerevisiae type 1 (PY). After 60 days, both probiotic-supplemented groups exhibited significant enhancement in growth performance, the protein efficiency ratio (PER), and digestive enzyme secretion (protease and amylase) compared to the control group (P<0.05). The anterior, middle, and posterior parts of the intestines exhibited significantly increased values of intestinal fold height (hF), enterocyte height (hE), and microvillus height (hMV) in fish fed PB- or PY-supplemented diets (P<0.05). Serum peroxidase, anti-protease, and bactericidal activities were enhanced significantly in both probiotic-treated groups compared to the control group (P<0.05). Serum and mucus lysozyme activities improved significantly in the PB group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Catalase activity was also significantly decreased in both probiotic groups, with relatively lower activity observed in the PY group (P<0.05). Both probiotic groups showed considerably increased tolerance to freshwater exposure (P<0.05). In conclusion, B. subtilis C-3102 and S. cerevisiae type 1 can be used as functional probiotics to enhance the growth performance, digestion capacity, gut morphology, immune response, and stress resistance of the red sea bream with relatively higher efficiency by B. subtilis C-3102.
Insect Fat in Animal Nutrition – A Review
Authors: Benzertiha Abdelbasset , Kierończyk Bartosz , Rawski Mateusz , Mikołajczak Zuzanna , Urbański Arkadiusz , Nogowski Leszek , Józefiak Damian 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The aim of this review is to discuss the usage of insect fats as an energy source in animal nutrition. Insects are a rich carrier of proteins, fat, and minerals. They are successfully introduced in animal diets (poultry, swine, rabbits, fish, and pets) as a source of many nutrients, including energy and essential fatty acids (FAs). The insects’ fat content and quality are highly affected by the type of substrate provided to the insects during the rearing period. The majority of the studies have shown that insect fats may be used as promising substitutes for conventional energy resources in animal nutrition without adverse effects on growth performance and feed utilization. They can positively affect meat quality by increasing the level of long-chain polyunsaturated FAs but may also positively influence animals by regulating the gut microbiota and stimulating the immune system. In conclusion, insect fat supplementation showed promising results in terms of their application in animal nutrition. However, compared to insect protein application, very few studies have been performed on insect fats. Therefore, because of the fat quality and content of insects, there is a need to extend experimentation regarding their implementation in animals’ diets as a replacement for conventional dietary energy resources.
Effects of chestnut tannins supplementation of prepartum moderate yielding dairy cows on metabolic health, antioxidant and colostrum indices
Authors: Prodanović Radiša , Nedić Sreten , Simeunović Predrag , Borozan Sunčica , Nedić Svetlana , Bojkovski Jovan , Kirovski Danijela , Vujanac Ivan 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with chestnut tannins (CNT) on metabolic and antioxidant status of prepartum cows along with their colostrum quality. Pregnant multiparous Holstein cows were paired according to parity and body condition score, and assigned either to a diet supplemented with 20 g/d of commercially available product containing chestnut tannins (CNT, n=20) or to an unsupplemented control diet (CON, n=20) for the last 25±2 d of pregnancy. Serum metabolite, insulin and antioxidant capacity indices were measured in blood samples taken at d 25 and d 5 before expected parturition. Chemical composition and IgG concentration were determined in colostrum samples collected from the first milking postpartum. The addition of CNT led to lower BUN (P=0.02) and consequently higher serum glucose (P=0.02) and insulin (P<0.01) concentrations which were associated with lower circulating NEFA (P<0.01) and BHBA (P<0.01) in CNT group than those of CON. The serum paraoxonase 1 (PON 1) activity and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) were higher at -5 d in CNT than in CON (P<0.01, P=0.03; respectively). Close-up CNT improved lactose percentage and IgG concentration (P=0.03, P=0.04; respectively) and tended to improve percentage of protein and SNF (Solid Not Fat) in primary colostrum (P=0.06, respectively), without affecting colostrum fat and total solid (P=0.98, P=0.43; respectively). Supplementation of CNT in the diet during close-up period did not have adverse effects on metabolic profiles prepartum. Instead, this feeding regimen was more beneficial to antioxidant capacity and colostrum quality than feeding the control diet.
Interspecific hybrids of animals - in nature, breeding and science – a review
Authors: Gabryś Julia , Kij Barbara , Kochan Joanna , Bugno-Poniewierska Monika 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Interspecific hybrids called hybrids are individuals obtained by crossing two different species. Hybrids are found both in nature among wild animals but also have become attractive in animal husbandry due to the high production features of the F1 generation. Interspecific hybrids are observed in nature most often as a result of crossing closely related species, which is a great danger to the purity of the population of starting species. Interspecies hybrids are also created by man for production purposes. Due to disturbances in gametogenesis processes, they have become a valuable research model. In the article, we describe interspecific hybrids occurring in nature and related problems, interspecific hybrids created for production purposes in animal husbandry, but also research using hybrids as a research model. In the article we also highlight the issues of fertility of individuals obtained from such matings.
Effect of curcumin dietary supplementation on growth performance, physiology, carcass characteristics and meat quality in lambs
Authors: Marcon Hiam , Souza Carine F. , Baldissera Matheus D. , Alba Davi F. , Favaretto Jorge A. , Santos Daiane S. , Borges Luiza , Kessler Julcemar D. , Vedovatto Marcelo , Bianchi Anderson E. , Da Silva Aleksandro S. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of curcumin dietary supplementation on growth, physiology, carcass characteristics and meat quality in lambs. Thirty-two male Lacaune lambs (15.6 ± 0.63 kg, 60 ± 2.8 days of age) were randomly allocated in 16 pens (four treatments of four replicates with two lambs each) for 30 days. The animals were assigned to the following treatments: T0, T100, T200 and T300, representing 0, 100, 200 and 300 mg of curcumin/kg of concentrate, respectively. Curcumin dietary supplementation increased (P = 0.02) weight gain; on regression analysis, 315.1 mg curcumin/kg of concentrate was the dosage that provided the greatest weight gain. T200 and T300 lambs had lower (P = 0.04) erythrocytes numbers; T100 and T300 lambs had lower (P = 0.01) leukocyte numbers and T300 lambs had lower (P = 0.04) lymphocyte numbers, compared to T0 lambs. Globulin levels were significantly greater in the T200 group (P = 0.04) only on day 15 but not day 30; levels of total protein were significantly higher (P = 0.01) only in T200 and T300 group on day 15 and only in T200 group on d 30. Gamma-glutamyltransferase concentrations tended to be lower (P = 0.08) in T100, T200 and T300 group on d 15, and only in the T100 group on d 30. Curcumin dietary supplementation increased (P = 0.01) the serum activity of antioxidant enzymes and reduced (P = 0.01) levels of reactive oxygen species. In meat samples, T200 and T300 had greater total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.03) and lower (P = 0.01) lipoperoxidation rates. In carcasses, T300 lambs had greater (P ≤ 0.02) cooling weight losses and yields than did T0 lambs. Curcumin dietary supplementation also reduced (P ≤ 0.03) redness and yellowness. T200 and T300 lambs had fewer (P = 0.01) cooking losses and T200 lambs had greater (P = 0.03) water holding capacity than did T0 lambs. These findings suggest that curcumin dietary supplementation improves growth and antioxidant responses, as well as influencing meat quality in lambs.
Cerebral Malaria and Toxoplasmosis: Could their Concomitant Presentation Worsen Psychotic Condition?
Authors: Ibrahim Mohammed A. , Atilola Olayinka , Mohammed Aminu , Awosanya Emmanuel J. , Odetokun Ismail A. , Muhammad Aliyu , Chukwudi Chinwe U. , Ukwaja Kingsley N. , Oyeyemi Oyetunde T. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractMalaria and toxoplasmosis are two important parasitic diseases with significant public health concerns in the Sub-Saharan African countries. Some aspects of pathogenesis of the two parasitic diseases involve the central nervous system manifesting neuropsychiatric disorders. Studies have implicated the single infection byPlasmodiumspp. andToxoplasma gondiiin development of psychosis. Although concomitant infection of the two parasites suggests an aggravated psychotic condition, there is currently no reported study. This article reviewed some studies which implicated malaria and toxoplasmosis in psychosis. It further explored the likely role of concurrent infection by the parasites on psychosis, the dynamics of their pathology and possible effects of certain psychosis-associated cytokines and other biomolecules on the central nervous system. We recommend evidence-based research efforts in this field for the effective management of these two parasitic diseases to abate the public health burden of psychosis.
Coping strategies among female farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria during recent economic recession: What factors matter?
Authors: Mkpado Mmaduabuchukwu , Omowole Opeyemi Ebenezer 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Economic recession often exacerbates the effects of poverty on agrarian communities in Nigeria. This paper examined the effects of economic recession on female farmers and coping strategies they employed. It explored the effects of the crisis on their income, farm size, livelihood and welfare aspects such as feeding, schooling of their children and health care. The study was conducted in Ondo State, Nigeria. Primary data were used. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to administer 100 copies of the questionnaires on females in rural agrarian households in the study area. The obtained data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Likert scale analysis. The findings showed that the economic recession resulted in poor health care, inadequate feeding, poor income and school dropouts. Major factors that helped the women to cope were land ownership security/access to land, introduction of new crops, marital status and educational status. These factors are crucial as their Chi-square values and Likelihood Ratios were significant at one percent probability level (P < 0.01). The research concludes that educated females as well as married women and women possessing secured land tenure coped better in times of economic crisis. The paper thus recommends increased investments by governments in the agricultural sector to help curtail the inflation in food prices and increasing women access to land and education.