bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of lactic acid bacteria‐treated King grass silage on the performance traits and serum metabolites in New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Shah A. A. , Yuan X. , Khan R. U. , Shao T. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryThis study examined the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici‐treated silage of King grass (Pennisetum purpureophoides) on the productive traits and blood biochemistry of New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits. King grass was ensiled without or with L. plantarum (T1), P. acidilactici (T2) and P. acidilactici + L. plantarum (T3). A total of 72 male NZW rabbits (6 weeks) of similar weight and appearance were housed in groups in metallic cages in a completely randomized design. The performance traits, daily feed intake, body weight gain and feed convention ratio were not affected by the silage treatment. Triglyceride and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) concentration was increased (p < .05) in T2 (0.92 mmol/L) compared to the other treatments. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), phosphorous (P) and magnesium (Mg) increased (p < .05) in T1 (658.01 nmol/ml, 5.1 mg/kg and 2.43 mg/kg, respectively) compared to the control and other experimental groups. Cu and Mn decreased (p < .05), while Zn increased (p < .05) in the treated groups compared to the control. The CP decreased (p < .05) in the treatment groups compared to the control. Neutral detergent fibre (NDF) increased (p < .05) in T2 (54.40%) compared to the other treatments. The inoculation of lactic acid bacteria‐treated King grass silage supplementation positively affected rabbit performance and improved blood cholesterol profile, antioxidant status and improve nutrients digestibility.
Transient Myocardial Thickening in Cats Associated with Heart Failure
Authors: Novo Matos J. , Pereira N. , Glaus T. , Wilkie L. , Borgeat K. , Loureiro J. , Silva J. , Law V. , Kranjc A. , Connolly D.J. , Luis Fuentes V. 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundCats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and congestive heart failure (CHF) can have resolution of both left ventricular hypertrophy and CHF.ObjectivesTo describe the clinical characteristics of cats with transient myocardial thickening (TMT) and CHF compared with a control population of cats without resolution of HCM.AnimalsA total of 21 cats with TMT, 21 cats with HCM.MethodsRetrospective study. Clinical records at 4 veterinary centers were searched for TMT cases and a control group of cats with HCM and CHF. TMT was defined as initial maximal left ventricular wall thickness (LVWT) ≥6 mm with left‐sided CHF, with subsequent resolution of CHF, reduction in left atrium/aorta (LA/Ao), and LVWT<5.5 mm. HCM was defined as persistent LVWT ≥6 mm.ResultsCats with TMT were younger (2 [0.4–11.4] years) than cats with HCM (8 [1.6–14] years) (P < 0.0001), and antecedent events were more common (15/21 versus 6/21, respectively) (P = 0.01). In cats with TMT, LVWT normalized from 6.8 [6.0–9.7] mm to 4.8 [2.8–5.3] mm and LA/Ao decreased from 1.8 [1.6–2.3] to 1.45 [1.2–1.7] after a mean interval of 3.3 (95% CI: 1.8–4.7) months. CHF recurred in 1 of 21 TMT and 15 of 21 cats with HCM. Cardiac treatment was discontinued in 20 of 21 cats with TMT and 0 of 21 HCM cats. All cats with TMT survived, whereas 8 of 19 cats with HCM died during the study period.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceTMT occurs in younger cats, and antecedent events are common. The prognosis is better in cats with CHF associated with TMT than HCM.
Effect of Stocking Rate on Growing Juvenile Sunshine Bass, Morone chrysops × M. saxatilis, in an Outdoor Biofloc Production System
Authors: Green Bartholomew W. , Rawles Steven D. , Webster Carl D. , McEntire Matthew E. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe biofloc technology production system is a production‐intensifying management strategy used primarily for culturing tilapia and penaeid shrimp, both of which can consume the biofloc. Other fish can be grown in biofloc systems because the biofloc serves to maintain water quality, metabolizing the ammonia excreted by intensively fed fish. A dose–response study was conducted in an outdoor biofloc system to begin quantifying the stocking rate production function for sunshine bass, Morone chrysops × Morone saxatilis, advanced fingerlings. Sunshine bass (2.9 ± 0.2 g/fish) were stocked into tanks at 50–250 fish/m2 in 50 fish/m2 increments. After 94 d, gross yields ranged from 1.4 to 3.1 kg/m3 and were independent of stocking rate. Harvested fish were separated into two size groups: smaller than 115 mm total length (TL, target fish) and larger than 115 mm TL (jumper fish). Target fish increased linearly from 62 to 93% and jumpers decreased linearly from 38 to 7% of the population, respectively, as stocking rate increased. The outdoor biofloc system offers potential for intensifying the production of advanced sunshine bass fingerlings, but feed consumption appeared to be impeded by high total suspended solids concentrations. Further research is needed to optimize stocking rates and solids management.
Earth Dam Construction Simulation Considering Stochastic Rainfall Impact
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhong Denghua , Wu Binping , Lv Fei , Cui Bo 
Published: December 2017

AbstractEffective construction scheme planning is critical for schedule management, but heavy rain can affect construction processes. In previous studies, stochastic rainfall characteristics are often ignored, and their impact on macro‐ and microconstruction states are not depicted comprehensively. This research presents a construction simulation model to design reasonable construction schemes considering impact of stochastic rainfall. First, a rainfall model suitable for areas with heavy rainfall and uneven seasonal rainfall distribution is built. Then, multiaspect indicators are defined to intuitively quantify rainfall impact. Two case studies are conducted to evaluate applicability of the proposed method. Results demonstrate that the developed rainfall model aligns closely with observed data. Simulation findings reveal that if stochastic rainfall characteristics are ignored, the schedule and queuing probability of trucks will be underestimated, while machinery utilization will be overestimated. This research provides an effective simulation tool for determining adaptive measures to mitigate impacts of rainfall events.
The dual role of MamB in magnetosome membrane assembly and magnetite biomineralization
Authors: Uebe René , Keren‐Khadmy Noa , Zeytuni Natalie , Katzmann Emanuel , Navon Yotam , Davidov Geula , Bitton Ronit , Plitzko Jürgen M. , Schüler Dirk , Zarivach Raz 
Published: December 2017

SummaryMagnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR‐1 synthesizes membrane‐enclosed magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles, magnetosomes, for magnetotaxis. Formation of these organelles involves a complex process comprising key steps which are governed by specific magnetosome‐associated proteins. MamB, a cation diffusion facilitator (CDF) family member has been implicated in magnetosome‐directed iron transport. However, deletion mutagenesis studies revealed that MamB is essential for the formation of magnetosome membrane vesicles, but its precise role remains elusive. In this study, we employed a multi‐disciplinary approach to define the role of MamB during magnetosome formation. Using site‐directed mutagenesis complemented by structural analyses, fluorescence microscopy and cryo‐electron tomography, we show that MamB is most likely an active magnetosome‐directed transporter serving two distinct, yet essential functions. First, MamB initiates magnetosome vesicle formation in a transport‐independent process, probably by serving as a landmark protein. Second, MamB transport activity is required for magnetite nucleation. Furthermore, by determining the crystal structure of the MamB cytosolic C‐terminal domain, we also provide mechanistic insight into transport regulation. Additionally, we present evidence that magnetosome vesicle growth and chain formation are independent of magnetite nucleation and magnetic interactions respectively. Together, our data provide novel insight into the role of the key bifunctional magnetosome protein MamB, and the early steps of magnetosome formation.
Leadership Selection and Cooperative Behavior in Social Dilemmas: An Empirical Exploration of Assigned versus Group‐Chosen Leadership
Authors: Naquin Charles E. , Kurtzberg Terri R. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThis research explores the leadership selection process as an antecedent to group cooperation. We compare group‐chosen and assigned leaders and explore their resulting influence upon the group process and outcome in a social dilemma context. In three empirical studies, we predict and provide support for the idea that group‐chosen leaders will attend more to the social aspects of the group's interaction as opposed to the economic (bottom‐line) ones than will assigned leaders. Additionally, we found that those groups with group‐chosen leaders had more overall group cooperation (i.e., less economic self‐interest), greater trust in one another and in the leader, and had leaders who displayed more socially oriented leadership behaviors.
Causes and mechanisms of adipocyte enlargement and adipose expansion
Authors: Haczeyni F. , Bell‐Anderson K. S. , Farrell G. C. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryAdipose tissue plays a significant role in whole body energy homeostasis. Obesity‐associated diabetes, fatty liver and metabolic syndrome are closely linked to adipose stress and dysfunction. Genetic predisposition, overeating and physical inactivity influence the expansion of adipose tissues. Under conditions of constant energy surplus, adipocytes become hypertrophic and adipose tissues undergo hyperplasia so as to increase their lipid storage capacity, thereby keeping circulating blood glucose and fatty acids below toxic levels. Nonetheless, adipocytes have a saturation point where they lose capacity to store more lipids. At this stage, when adipocytes are fully lipid‐engorged, they express stress signals. Adipose depots (particularly visceral compartments) from obese individuals with a severe metabolic phenotype are characterized by the high proportion of hypertrophic adipocytes. This review focuses on the mechanisms of adipocyte enlargement in relation to adipose fatty acid and cholesterol metabolism, and considers how this may be related to adipose dysfunction.
Local anesthesia in pediatric dermatologic surgery: Evaluation of a patient‐centered approach
Authors: El Hachem May , Carnevale Claudia , Diociaiuti Andrea , Ranieri Cristiana De , Giancristoforo Simona , Zambruno Giovanna , Ciofi Degli Atti Marta L. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBackground/ObjectivesA few studies have documented the effect of local anesthesia for minor dermatologic surgical procedures on children and their parents. Our objective was to evaluate the psychological effect and global satisfaction of a patient‐centered approach to dermatologic surgery under local anesthesia.MethodsTwo self‐administered questionnaires were used to evaluate the distress and global satisfaction of 388 children who underwent dermatologic surgery under local anesthesia, accompanied by oral and written therapeutic education measures (structured information and a cartoon brochure illustrating the procedure) addressed to children and parents. Distraction techniques were also used during the procedures.ResultsAlthough 54.5% of patients manifested some degree of fear, all other parameters analyzed (pain, surgery‐related distress, surgical team–patient and –family relationship, global satisfaction) indicated that the procedures resulted in limited distress and that the large majority of children and parents tolerated them well.ConclusionSpecific measures for therapeutic pediatric patient education may be helpful in limiting discomfort, anxiety, and pain perception linked to procedures performed under local anesthesia. Further controlled studies are required to more precisely assess the benefits of specific therapeutic education measures.
Unemployment burden and its distribution: Theory and evidence from India
Authors: Motiram Sripad , Naraparaju Karthikeya 
Published: December 2017

AbstractWe develop a measure of unemployment that takes into account both the duration and intensity of unemployment. This measure satisfies several desirable properties, including distribution sensitivity, which deals with differences among the unemployed. It is particularly suited to developing countries because individuals in these countries display considerable variation in labor force participation, unemployment duration, and unemployment intensity. It can also be decomposed into mean and variance components and contributions to unemployment by various subgroups of the population. We use this measure and data from National Sample Surveys on employment and unemployment to understand unemployment in India during the period 1993 to 2012. We show that unemployment has generally fallen, although the distribution of unemployment has worsened. Moreover, unemployment is driven to a greater extent by higher educated groups; the unemployment among these groups is also fairly substantial. We explain these findings and suggest some policies.
An economic model of search and matching in international trade
Authors: Reimer Jeffrey J. , Zhang Xin 
Published: December 2017

AbstractA framework is developed to explain export participation among firms that produce differentiated products and may choose to exert costly effort to find foreign buyers. Export participation is linked to firm search costs, importer search costs, tariffs, the rate of contract breakdown, the distribution of bargaining power, and the degree of product differentiation. Propositions are derived that shed light on historic changes in export participation among firms while also generating hypotheses for further study. The model is applied to small U.S. food manufacturers and is shown to be able to explain changes in export participation among such firms.
Effects of a targeted blood management programme on allogeneic blood transfusion in abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery
Authors: Stoneham M. D. , Von Kier S. , Harvey L. , Murphy M. 
Published: December 2017

SUMMARYObjectivesTo investigate the impact of a dedicated cell salvage practitioner team on blood loss and allogeneic transfusion in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) surgery.BackgroundCell salvage reduces allogeneic transfusion in AAA surgery, but is commonly performed by the anaesthetic nurse. At our hospital, a dedicated patient blood management practitioner is present for all elective open AAA repairs.Methods/MaterialsData were collected on 171 AAA patients operated on at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford over a 3‐year period, looking at the Patient Blood Management processes, including: blood loss, cell salvage, near‐patient testing (thrombelastography) and transfusion rates of allogeneic blood products.ResultsBlood loss ranged from 3–108% of estimated blood volume (EBV) (median 25% = 1500 mL). In seven patients who lost 70–110% of their EBV, none reached the thrombelastography intervention threshold for R time (11 min) or MA (48 mm) despite such massive blood loss. Overall, only 7/171 (4%) patients received intra‐operative allogeneic blood, all of whom had a mean baseline haemoglobin concentration < 106 g L−1 (median 98, range 95–105 g L−1). In terms of other blood products, only 4/171 (2·3%) received one unit of platelets each intra‐operatively. None received FFP or cryoprecipitate.ConclusionsSuch low levels of allogeneic transfusion have not been reported previously. We hypothesise that this is due to the additional blood management contributions of the specialised cell salvage practitioners and collaboration with the rest of the vascular surgical team. These results support the development of pre‐operative anaemia clinics. Overall the service runs at a profit to the trust.
Factors for incomplete adherence to antiretroviral therapy including drug refill and clinic visits among older adults living with human immunodeficiency virus – cross‐sectional study in South Africa
Authors: Barry Abbie , Ford Nathan , El‐Khatib Ziad 
Published: December 2017

AbstractObjectivesTo assess adherence outcomes to antiretroviral therapy (ART) of recipients ≥50 years in Soweto, South Africa.MethodsThis was a secondary data analysis for a cross‐sectional study at two HIV clinics in Soweto. Data on ART adherence and covariates were gathered through structured interviews with HIV 878 persons living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving ART. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess associations.ResultsPLHIV ≥50 years (n = 103) were more likely to miss clinic visits during the last six months than PLHIV aged 25–49 (OR 2.15; 95%CI 1.10–4.18). PLHIV ≥50 years with no or primary‐level education were less likely to have missed a clinic visit during the last six months than PLHIV with secondary‐ or tertiary‐level education in the same age category (OR 0.3; 95%CI 0.1–1.1), as were PLHIV who did not disclose their status (OR 0.2; 95%CI 0–1.1). There was no evidence of increased risk for non‐adherence to ART pills and drug refill visits among older PLHIV.ConclusionMissing a clinic visit was more common among older PLHIV who were more financially vulnerable. Further studies are needed to verify these findings and identify new risk factors associated with ART adherence.
Removal of hemangiosarcoma cells from canine blood with a cell salvage system and leukocyte reduction filter
Authors: Ciepluch Brittany , Wilson‐Robles Heather , Levine Gwendolyn , Smith Roger , Wright Gus A. , Miller Tasha , O'Brien Maureen T. , Thieman Mankin Kelley M. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the ability of an intraoperative cell salvage (IOCS) system and a leukocyte reduction filter (LRF) to remove hemangiosarcoma (HSA) cells from canine blood.Study DesignCultured HSA cells were added to canine blood to simulate intraoperative hemorrhage and address hemoabdomen from ruptured splenic HSA. The blood/HSA cell mixture was processed through an IOCS, followed by LRF processing.Sample PopulationWhole blood from 3 healthy dogs combined with cultured HSA cells.MethodsThe ability of quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), multiparameter flow cytometry, and cytologic examination to detect 50 HSA cells per milliliter of culture media was confirmed. RT‐PCR, multiparameter flow cytometry, and cytologic examination were used to determine the presence of cultured HSA cells at 4 points during processing.ResultsHSA cells were found in all control samples and in all samples after IOCS but prior to LRF processing with all 3 cell detection methods. HSA cells were not found after IOCS/LRF processing with all 3 cell detection methods.ConclusionIOCS combined with LRF processing is able to remove cultured HSA cells from canine blood. The addition of LRF to IOCS may allow application of IOCS in dogs with HSA.Clinical significanceA combination of IOCS and LRF processing may provide an alternative to allogeneic blood transfusion in dogs with hemoabdomen due to HSA.
Use of spider webs as indicators of air quality assessment of Lahore City
Authors: Tahir Hafiz Muhammad , Aamir Hammad , Nadeem Junaid 
Published: December 2017

AbstractHigh level of heavy metal contaminants in air is known to cause serious health problems if remained unchecked for a long period of time. Anthropogenic activities such as vehicular emissions and number of industries are responsible for increasing the level of heavy metals. The aim of the present study was to biologically monitor the level of heavy metal contamination by spider webs. These sites were selected based on variable traffic volume and number of industries. Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) was used for the analysis of metal pollution content. The study determined that the level of heavy metals at the selected sampling sites were several folds higher than that at the control site and in previously reported literature. Pb was determined to be the most abundant heavy metal, while Thokar Niaz Baig was reported as the most contaminated site. These elevated levels of metal contaminants are associated with heavy traffic flow, number of industries and constructional activities in the respective areas.
Use of general practice before and after mild traumatic brain injury: a nationwide population-based cohort study in Denmark
Authors: Galili Stine Fjendbo , Bech Bodil Hammer , Vestergaard Claus , Fenger-Gron Morten , Christensen Jakob , Vestergaard Mogens , Ahrensberg Jette 
Published: December 2017

ObjectivesTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is commonly seen in the emergency department (ED). Approximately 85%–90% of TBIs are mild (mTBI). Some cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, anxiety, blurred vision, insomnia and concentration difficulties, collectively known as postconcussion syndrome (PCS). Some studies suggest that recovery from mTBI is complete. Others find that symptoms persist for months, even years. The aim of this study was to describe the use of general practice, before and after mTBI, as a proxy for symptoms in a large cohort.DesignNationwide population-based matched cohort study.SettingDanish EDs and general practice.ParticipantsAll patients (aged ≥18 years), first-time diagnosed with mTBI in a Danish ED between 1 January 1998 and 31 December 2010 (n=93 517). Ten reference persons per patient with mTBI were randomly matched on gender, age and general practice (n=935 170).Primary outcomeOverall use of general practice; consultations relating to mental and physical health.ResultsWe found higher use of general practice during the first year after mTBI for all ages, both genders and all types of contacts. Age 18–40 years: women, incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.59 (95% CI 1.57 to 1.61); men, IRR 1.82 (95% CI 1.80 to 1.85). Age 41–65 years: women, IRR 1.75 (95% CI 1.72 to 1.78); men, IRR 1.85(95% CI 1.82 to 1.89). Age 66+ years: women, IRR 1.55 (95% CI 1.52 to 1.58); men, IRR 1.55 (95% CI 1.51 to 1.59). After the first year, the use decreased to the level before mTBI. Individuals with mTBI and higher use of general practice before mTBI had lower socioeconomic status and more comorbidities (P<0.001).ConclusionsThe use of general practice was higher in the first year after mTBI, specifically in the first 3 months. Patients with mTBI had different healthcare-seeking behaviour several years before diagnosis than their matched reference persons. Pretraumatic morbidity should be considered in the evaluation of PCS.