bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Breeding for organic and low-input farming systems: An evolutionary–participatory breeding method for inbred cereal grains
Authors: Murphy Kevin , Lammer Doug , Lyon Steve , Carter Brady , Jones Stephen S. 
Published: April 2005

AbstractOrganic and low-input farmers often plant seed varieties that have been selected under conventional practices, traditionally including high inputs of artificial fertilizers, crop protection chemicals and/or water. In addition, these crops are often selected in environments that may or may not represent the local environment of the farmer. An evolutionary participatory breeding (EPB) method emphasizes the utilization of natural selection in combination with site-specific farmer selection in early segregating generations of a heterogeneous crop population. EPB is a combination of two specific breeding methods, evolutionary breeding and participatory plant breeding. Evolutionary breeding has been shown to increase yield, disease resistance, genetic diversity and adaptability of a crop population over time. It is based on a mass selection technique used by farmers for over 10,000 years of crop improvement. Participatory plant breeding programs originated in developing countries to meet the needs of low-input, small-scale farmers in marginal environments who were often overlooked by conventional crop breeders. The EPB method is an efficient breeding system uniquely suited to improving crop varieties for the low-input and organic farmer. The EPB method utilizes the skills and knowledge of both breeders and farmers to develop heterogeneous landrace populations, and is an effective breeding method for both traditional and modern farmers throughout the world.
Molecular Epidemiology of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome–Associated Coronavirus Infections in Taiwan
Authors: Lan Yu-Ching , Liu Tze-Tze , Yang Jyh-Yuan , Lee Cheng-Ming , Chen Yen-Ju , Chan Yu-Jiun , Lu Jang-Jih , Liu Hsin-Fu , Hsiung Chao A. , Ho Mei-Shang , Hsiao Kwang-Jen , Chen Hour-Young , Chen Yi-Ming Arthur 
Published: April 2005

Abstract
Background In 2003, Taiwan experienced a series of outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and 1 laboratory-contamination accident. Here we describe a new phylogenetic analytical method to study the sources and dissemination paths of SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) infections in Taiwan
Methods A phylogenetic analytical tool for combining nucleotide sequences from 6 variable regions of a SARS-CoV genome was developed by use of 20 published SARS-CoV sequences; and this method was validated by use of 80 published SARS-CoV sequences. Subsequently, this new tool was applied to provide a better understanding of the entire complement of Taiwanese SARS-CoV isolates, including 20 previously published and 19 identified in this study. The epidemiological data were integrated with the results from the phylogenetic tree and from the nucleotide-signature pattern
Results The topologies of phylogenetic trees generated by the new and the conventional strategies were similar, with the former having better robustness than the latter, especially in comparison with the maximum-likelihood trees: the new strategy revealed that during 2003 there were 5 waves of epidemic SARS-CoV infection, which belonged to 3 phylogenetic clusters in Taiwan
Conclusions The new strategy is more efficient than its conventional counterparts. The outbreaks of SARS in Taiwan originated from multiple sources
The growth of young pike in small Finnish lakes with different acidity‐related water properties and fish species composition
Authors: Raitaniemi J. 
Published: April 2005

Pike growth was generally slower in small Finnish lakes than has been reported from large lakes or brackish coastal waters. Growth was unrelated to pH, alkalinity, COD, or conductivity of the water, but length of 1–2‐year‐old pike correlated positively with water colour (i.e. humic content), nitrogen content, and phosphorus content. These water properties also correlated with each other. Growth of 1–2‐year‐old pike was negatively correlated with lake area in lakes smaller than 20 ha.In lakes with a strong roach population or without ruffe the 0 group pike grew faster than in lakes without roach or with ruffe. The growth of pike aged 1–4 years in two very acid and practically fishless lakes did not differ clearly from the rest of the lakes, although the pike were forced to forage for abundant acid resistant invertebrates like dragonfly nymphs (Odonata) or Asellus aquatlcus.The results of this work support earlier studies where the growth rate above all depends on water temperature and food availability. Acidity was not shown to affect the growth rate of pike.
Sex differentiation in the European eel: histological analysis of the effects of sex steroids on the gonad
Authors: Colombo G. , Grandi G. 
Published: April 2005

The effects of sex steroids on sex differentiation in the European eel were studied. The steroids, 17α‐methyltestosterone (MT) and 17α‐ethynylestradiol (EE), were given in the diet to 6–8 cm elvers and to 15–18 cm and 22–25 cm yellow eels. In our rearing conditions a very large percentage of the untreated eels developed as males. No masculinizing effect of MT could be demonstrated. The EE, administered at a dose of 10 mg kg‐1 of diet to 6–8 cm elvers and 15–18 cm eels, induced ovarian differentiation in about 90 and 65% of eels respectively, while in the control <5% of females was recorded. In 22–25 cm yellow eels a moderated feminizing effect was observed.Histological analysis of the gonads of treated eels showed that sex steroids affect the gonadal structure. The androgen stimulates hypertrophy of compact connective tissue, early differentiation of Leydig cells, Sertoli cells and early formation of the spermatic duct. Oestrogen inhibits the differentiation of these structural components and stimulates the differentiation of follicular cells and an ovarian structure.The involvement of gonadal structural components is discussed in relation to the effect of steroid treatment and to the peculiarities of sex differentiation in the European eel.
Feline cutaneous toxoplasmosis: a case report
Authors: ANFRAY PASCAL , BONETTI CRISTINA , FABBRINI FABRIZIO , MAGNINO SIMONE , MANCIANTI FRANCESCA , ABRAMO FRANCESCA 
Published: April 2005

Abstract A 9‐year‐old female, domestic short hair cat was presented with sudden onset of polyuria/polydipsia, and hundreds of cutaneous nodules. Prior to referral, the cat had had four skin nodules that were treated with steroids. The four skin nodules then multiplied to form more than 100 ulcerated and nonulcerated nodules located all over the trunk. Clinical evaluation revealed hypothermia and respiratory distress. Cytology from both skin nodules and bronchoalveolar lavage showed macrophages and small organisms whose shape and size were indicative ofToxoplasmaspp., or similar organisms. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) serology results were negative. The cat was seropositive forToxoplasma(IgG 1 : 640) andNeospora(1 : 80) infections. The cat died soon after referral. Necropsy revealed pyothorax, necrotic/purulent pneumonia, haemorrhagic spots on kidneys and mesentery. Histopathology from skin nodules showed diffuse, deep necrotic dermatitis/panniculitis, vasculitis and disseminated free and grouped protozoa. The parasites were found in lungs, spleen, kidneys and liver. Immunohistochemistry on skin tissue with anti‐Toxoplasma gondiiandNeospora caninumantibodies gave positive results with both. Electron microscopy showed single and grouped tachyzoites with morphological features ofT. gondii, often within macrophages. Samples of cutaneous nodules and bronchoalveolar fluid were examined by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for detecting apicomplexa coccidia. PCR results were consistent only withT. gondiiinfection. Therefore, immunohistochemistry positivity forN. caninumwas considered a cross‐reaction and a diagnosis of cutaneous and visceral toxoplasmosis was made.
Long‐term use of cyclosporine in the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis
Authors: RADOWICZ STACEY N. , POWER HELEN T. 
Published: April 2005

Abstract This retrospective study of 51 dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD) treated with cyclosporine (CsA) for a minimum of 6 months assessed the frequency of dosing and the need for continual treatment to control clinical signs. The study evaluated both medical records and information supplied by the owners in the form of written questionnaires and telephone follow‐up. Laboratory parameters, possible adverse effects and owner satisfaction were assessed. The dose of CsA was 5 mg/kg orally per day and dogs received CsA for 6–30 months. At the conclusion of the study period, 28 dogs (55%) needed ongoing CsA to control clinical signs of AD: 8 (15%) received CsA 2–3 days per week, 10 (20%) 4–5 days per week, and 10 (20%) daily. CsA was discontinued in 23 dogs (45%) after 6–24 months due to either a limited response (22%) or after achieving a clinical response (24%). The results suggest that some dogs with AD treated with CsA may not require daily or even ongoing treatment to control clinical signs. Laboratory abnormalities were detected in 13 dogs (25%) during their CsA treatment. Two dogs developed oral growths and three developed hirsuitism. Forty owners (78%) reported no adverse events in their dogs during the treatment period. Thirty‐six owners (71%) were satisfied with CsA as treatment for their atopic dog.
Acral mutilation and analgesia in 13 French spaniels
Authors: PARADIS MANON , JAHAM CAROLINE DE , PAGE NADIA , SAUVE FREDERIC , HELIE PIERRE 
Published: April 2005

Abstract  Acral mutilation and analgesia (AMA) is reported in 13 French spaniels in Canada. This newly recognized disorder shares striking similarities in clinical features and biopsy findings to the other acral mutilation syndromes or hereditary sensory neuropathies reported in German short‐haired pointer dogs, English pointer dogs and English springer spaniels. Clinical signs are first noted between 3.5 and 12 months of age. Affected dogs lick, bite and severely self‐mutilate their distal extremities resulting in ulcers with secondary bacterial infection. Auto‐amputation of claws, digits and footpads occurs in severe cases. Single or multiple feet can be affected. Affected dogs walked on their severely mutilated feet without evidence of pain, lameness, or ataxia. The majority of the dogs were euthanized within days to months of diagnosis.
Development of an enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) for the serodiagnosis of canine dermatophytosis caused byMicrosporum canis
Authors: PEANO ANDREA , RAMBOZZI LUISA , GALLO MARIA G. 
Published: April 2005

Abstract In dogs, dermatophytosis should be considered in any case of alopecic, papular or pustular lesion. The aim of this study was to develop an enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) as an aid in the diagnosis of canine dermatophytosis. The antigen used was a whole fungal extract obtained from an isolate ofMicrosporum caniscultured on a liquid medium from the parasitized hair of a cat with patches of alopecia. To assess the ELISA performances, sera from 18 dogs with dermatophytosis caused byM. canis(group A,n = 18), 20 dogs with skin diseases other than dermatophytosis and 22 healthy dogs (group B,n = 42) were tested. Four further animals were tested: three with dermatophytosis caused byM. gypseumand one byT. mentagrophytes. A significant difference (P < 0.01, Wilcoxon's test, w = 364) was found between IgG‐specific levels of sera of recentlyM. canis‐infected dogs (infection < 15 days) and controls (although three dogs had negative titres at this stage). A highly significant difference (P < 0.001, w = 462) was noted between controls and dogs with infection of longer duration (> 30 days). All dogs had positive titres at this stage. A highly significant correlation (P < 0.001, Spearman's test, rho = 0.86) between duration of infection and IgG concentration was noted. The test has good sensitivity (83.3%) and high specificity (95.2%) but some dogs retained positive titres after elimination of infection. The sensitivity is higher than that of direct microscopic hair examination and similar to that of fungal culture with DTM (dermatophyte test medium).
Mechanisms behind postspinal headache and brain stem compression following lumbar dural puncture – a physiological approach
Authors: Grände P.‐O. 
Published: April 2005

Background:  The cause of postspinal headache and its specific characteristics are unknown, and whether lumbar dural puncture (LP) triggers brain‐stem compression in patients with brain oedema is still controversial.Methods:  Hydrostatic effects of distal opening of the dural sac towards the atmosphere are described and applied to the normal brain and the brain with disrupted BBB. Analogue analyses from previous results using an isolated skeletal muscle enclosed in a rigid shell were applied to the brain in an attempt to simulate and verify the haemodynamic effects of distal opening of the spinal canal.Results:  The theoretical considerations and the experimental results are compatible with the hypothesis that hydrostatic effects of distal opening of the fluid‐filled spinal canal may obliterate the normal subdural venous collapse after a change from the horizontal to vertical position, which may be compatible with postural postspinal headache as occurring close to pain‐sensitive meningeal regions. The hydrostatic forces may also initiate transcapillary filtration and aggravate oedema when permeability is increased, which may cause a narrower situation in the brain stem region, perhaps aggravated by venous stasis and a Cushing reflex‐induced increase in blood pressure. An magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) picture illustrates how this scenario may separate the subdural space into an upper high‐ and a lower low‐pressure cavity, pressing the brain downwards with sagging of the brain. A life‐threatening positive feedback situation for brain‐stem compression may develop.Conclusion:  The present study strongly suggests that postspinal headache and brain‐stem compression and other LP‐related effects are predictable following LP, without involving CSF leakage, and can be explained by hydrostatic effects triggered by distal opening of the normally closed dural space to the atmosphere.
Score system for elective tracheotomy in major head and neck tumour surgery
Authors: Kruse‐Lösler B. , Langer E. , Reich A. , Joos U. , Kleinheinz J. 
Published: April 2005

Background:  This study was designed to evaluate prognostic parameters for respiratory failure after major oropharyngeal resections in head and neck cancer surgery, focusing on a score system to identify patients requiring an elective tracheotomy and to avoid tracheotomy under emergency conditions.Methods:  One hundred and fifty‐two out of 928 patients with oropharyngeal cancers, treated between January 1993 and June 2000 at our hospital, fulfilled the inclusion criteria for a retrospective analysis. This collective underwent tumour resection in different regions of the oropharynx combined with bony resection of the mandible and neck dissection without primary tracheotomy. The reconstruction was accomplished using radial forearm flaps (n1 = 59) or local flaps (n2 = 93). These two groups were subdivided into patients treated post‐operatively by tracheotomy due to respiratory failure (n1 = 26; n2 = 12) and those without such treatment (n1 = 33; n2 = 81). The database comprising tumour localization and size, staging, general medical condition, smoking and alcohol consumption was evaluated by logistic regression.Results:  We developed a score system which predicts the likelihood of post‐operative respiratory failure. For indication of tracheotomy, tumour size and localization, multimorbidity, alcohol consumption and pathologic chest X‐ray findings were identified as significant parameters with different weightings. The predictive value for tracheotomy (yes/no) using the score system was 96.7% for the total collective.Conclusion:  The decision on whether or not an elective tracheotomy in major head and neck tumour surgery is necessary can be facilitated using this score system which is based on objective facts. It may reduce post‐operative complications and contribute to safer treatment.
Posterior labat vs. lateral popliteal sciatic block: posterior sciatic block has quicker onset and shorter duration of anaesthesia
Authors: Fournier R. , Weber A. , Gamulin Z. 
Published: April 2005

Background:  During foot and ankle surgery, a combination of a sciatic and femoral nerve block is a well‐recognized technique for providing anaesthesia and post‐operative analgesia. Our hypothesis is that the posterior gluteal sciatic block (PSB) is more efficient than the lateral popliteal sciatic block (LPSB), and this study compared the anaesthetic characteristics between these two techniques performed for elective ankle and foot surgery.Methods:  This retrospective database analysis reviewed the onset, duration of action, success rate and complications among 287 patients who were operated upon using sciatic block. PSB was performed in 149 patients and LPSB in 138 patients, all with the use of 30 ml of 5 mg/ml ropivacaine (150 mg).Results:  In the PSB group, the time to perform the block was shorter than in the LPSB group (2.5 ± 1 vs. 4.5 ± 4 min, P < 0.001), as was the time to complete sensory block (13 ± 13 vs. 23 ± 26 min, respectively; P < 0.001). However, the duration of sensory block was longer in the LPSB group (1130 ± 470 vs. 960 ± 310 min, respectively; P < 0.006).Conclusion:  PSB is easier to perform, and has a quicker onset of sensory blockade whereas LPSB has a longer duration of analgesia.
A‐line autoregression index monitoring to titrate inhalational anaesthesia: effects on sevoflurane consumption, emergence time and memory
Authors: Rinaldi S. , Consales G. , Gallerani E. , Ortolani O. , De Gaudio A. R. 
Published: April 2005

Background:  A‐line autoregression index (AAI) is a parameter derived from auditory evoked potentials proposed as depth of anaesthesia monitor. We evaluated the effects of AAI guidance on sevoflurane consumption, emergence time, explicit and implicit memory.Methods:  One hundred patients submitted to major abdominal surgery were randomized into two groups. In group A (n = 50), sevoflurane was titrated according to AAI (target = 20 ± 5), in group B (n = 50) according to clinical signs. Anaesthesia was induced with fentanyl, propofol, atracurium and maintained with sevoflurane. The mean value of sevoflurane consumption (g/min) and emergence time has been assessed in both groups. After emergence, A test of explicit memory was administered. We assessed implicit memory using a category generation test.Results:  In group A, mean sevoflurane consumption was significantly (P = 0.0001) reduced by 20.4% and mean emergence time was significantly (P = 0.00012) shorter by 2 min with respect to group B. No patients experienced explicit memory while the difference between the two groups in implicit memory results was not significant (P = 0107).Conclusions:  AAI titration of anaesthesia allows a significant reduction in sevoflurane consumption and emergence time without significant effects on the incidence of explicit and implicit memory. Nevertheless the relationship between AAI and memory requires studies in larger groups of patients.
Plasma concentrations of meperidine and normeperidine following continuous intrathecal meperidine in patients with neuropathic cancer pain
Authors: Vranken J. H. , Van Der Vegt M. H. , Van Kan H. J. M. , Kruis M. R. 
Published: April 2005

Background:  Intrathecal administration of meperidine, an opioid with local anesthetic activity, can induce analgesia in patients with intractable cancer pain. However, continuous intrathecal administration may result in the accumulation of normeperidine, responsible for central nervous system toxicity.Methods:  Ten patients with neuropathic cancer pain, not responding to conventional opioid therapy, were treated with continuous intrathecal administration of meperidine. In all patients, plasma concentrations of meperidine and normeperidine were measured the first days after the start of treatment. Visual analog scale scores were recorded to evaluate pain relief. Quality of life was assessed before and 3 weeks following the start of intrathecal treatment.Results:  In three patients the plasma concentrations of meperidine and normeperidine increased rapidly. In one patient the plasma normeperidine concentration was higher than the meperidine concentration. One patient demonstrated transient symptoms suggestive for central nervous system excitation. Three weeks following the start of treatment, seven patients were available for evaluation of their quality of life. Pain relief and overall quality of life improved during the intrathecal treatment.Conclusion:  We conclude that continuous intrathecal administration of meperidine alone, or in combination with clonidine, can provide significant pain relief in patients with poor pain control despite pharmacological treatment. However, accumulation of meperidine and normeperidine resulting in central nervous system toxicity may occur during this treatment.
Effects of hydroxyethyl starch on hepatic production of cytokines and activation of transcription factors in lipopolysaccharide‐administered rats
Authors: Lv R. , Zhou W. , Zhang L. D. , Xu J. G. 
Published: April 2005

Background:  Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is one of the most frequently used plasma substitutes. Some studies have indicated that HES may have anti‐inflammatory effects. The present in vivo study was performed to investigate the effects of HES on hepatic production of cytokines and activation of transcription factors in sepsis.Methods:  Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: rats challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (5 mg kg−1) and treated with saline (64 ml kg−1); challenged with LPS (5 mg kg−1) and treated with HES (16 ml kg−1); injected with saline and treated with HES (16 ml kg−1); and saline control. Each hepatic tissue was collected in groups of rats 2 h after induction of endotoxemia for determination of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α levels, TNF‐α mRNA expressions, and nuclear factor (NF)‐κB, activator protein (AP)‐1 activities or 3 h after LPS challenge for IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10 levels and the mRNA expressions.Results:  Endotoxemia was associated with significant increases in hepatic proinflammatory cytokine productions and transcription factor activities. HES significantly reduced the increased hepatic levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8 and the mRNAs in the endotoxemic rats. Similarly, HES could inhibit hepatic NF‐κB and AP‐1 activations.Conclusion:  The results suggest that in sepsis HES may down‐regulate hepatic inflammatory mediators production and these anti‐inflammatory effects may act through inhibition of NF‐κB and AP‐1 activations.