bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunohistochemical Detection of Thyroid Transcription Factor-1, Thyroglobulin, and Calcitonin in Canine Normal, Hyperplastic, and Neoplastic Thyroid Gland
Authors: Ramos-Vara J. A. , Miller M. A. , Johnson G. C. , Pace L. W.
Published: April 2003

Immunohistochemistry for thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1), thyroglobulin, and calcitonin was done in normal, hyperplastic, and neoplastic canine thyroid glands that had been fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. Prolonged fixation did not significantly alter the immunostaining for TTF-1. Staining for TTF-1 was always nuclear and usually strong. One of two C-cell adenomas, five of five follicular cell adenomas, 5 of 11 C-cell carcinomas, 38 of 42 follicular cell carcinomas, two of five cases of C-cell hyperplasia, two of two cases of follicular epithelial hyperplasia, one of two metastatic C-cell carcinomas, and three of four metastatic follicular carcinomas were positive for TTF-1. One follicular carcinoma that was positive for TTF-1 was negative for thyroglobulin. Thirty-nine of 42 follicular cell carcinomas were positive for thyroglobulin, including two cases that were negative for TTF-1. All C-cell lesions were positive for calcitonin. Of a variety of normal canine tissues and 278 nonthyroid tumors, only normal lung (airway and alveolar epithelial cells) and four of five pulmonary carcinomas were positive for TTF-1. TTF-1 is a good marker of thyroid differentiation and can be used in conjunction with thyroglobulin and calcitonin to increase the detection and differentiation of thyroid tumors and their metastases.
Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Finnie J. W. , Blumbergs P. C.
Published: April 2003

Animal models have played a critical role in elucidating the complex pathogenesis of traumatic brain injury, the major cause of death and disability in young adults in Western countries. This review discusses how different types of animal models are useful for the study of neuropathologic processes in traumatic, blunt, nonmissile head injury.
Harlequin Ichthyosis in Two Greater Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros)
Authors: Chittick E. J. , Olivry T. , Dalldorf F. , Wright J. , Dale B. A. , Wolfe B. A.
Published: April 2003

Two greater kudu calves (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) born 7 years apart were found with fissures and thickened, scaly, cutaneous plates covering over 80% of their bodies. One was dead at presentation, and the other was euthanized shortly after birth. Both animals shared a common sire. On necropsy, chemosis, ectropion, eclabium, and bilateral valgus deformities of the tarsal joints were observed in one calf, presumed to be secondary to the plates restricting normal fetal development. The principal microscopic lesion was severe lamellar orthokeratosis, with focal mild parakeratosis. Ultrastructural epidermal lesions included the absence of normal lamellar granules, large dilated endoplasmic reticulum, and abnormal retention of organelles and vesicles. Gross, histopathologic, and electron microscopic findings in both kudu calves were consistent with those of harlequin ichthyosis, a rare dermatosis of humans believed to have an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. The underlying genetic and molecular abnormality and heritability of this condition in this greater kudu herd were not determined.
Hepatic Biliary Adenofibroma: A Hitherto Unrecognized Tumor in Equines. Report of a Case
Authors: Salvaggio A. , Caracappa S. , Gurrera A. , Magro G.
Published: April 2003

Hepatic biliary cystadenoma is a well-delineated neoplasm in some domestic animals, especially in cats, but it has not been reported in equines. We report on a case of hepatic biliary tumor, incidentally found in a 10-year-old horse, with gross and microscopic features similar to those observed in biliary adenofibroma of humans. The tumor presented as a solid mass measuring 16 cm in diameter and histologically was composed of complex tubulocystic biliary components embedded in an abundant fibrotic stroma. We regarded this tumor as a morphological variant of biliary cystadenoma of domestic animals. Differential diagnoses from other hepatic biliary tumor-like and tumor lesions are provided.
Pathology of AA Amyloidosis in Domestic Sheep and Goats
Authors: Ménsua C. , Carrasco L. , Bautista M. J. , Biescas E. , Fernández A. , Murphy C. L. , Weiss D. T. , Solomon A. , Luján L.
Published: April 2003

We describe the main pathologic changes in small ruminants affected by AA amyloidosis, together with the partial sequence of the protein involved. Twenty-one sheep and one goat were selected for presenting macroscopic kidney lesions compatible with systemic amyloidosis. Available tissue samples were studied by histologic, immunopathologic, and ultrastructural means. Renal lesions were characterized grossly by pale cortical surfaces with scattered, miliary, whitish-yellow foci and on cut cortical surfaces by straight, whitish-yellow striations. Gangrenous pneumonia was observed in 16 out of 21 affected sheep (76.2%), although other chronic inflammations were also observed. Amyloid was detected in all grossly affected kidneys using Congo red staining, lesions being most remarkable in glomeruli, affecting 95.5% of animals studied. Congophilic deposits were also observed in intertubular interstitium (68.2%) and medulla (57.1%). All amyloid-affected animals presented proximal convoluted tubule lesions, mostly characterized by an increase in diameter and by hyaline granular degeneration that were responsible for the macroscopic appearance of the kidney. Histologically, amyloid was also seen in blood vessels, spleen, liver, lymph nodes, gastrointestinal tract, and adrenal glands. All amyloid deposits demonstrated greenish-yellow birefringence with polarized light, and the antisera prepared against goat amyloid extracts specifically reacted with birefringent congophilic deposits of both sheep and goats. Ultrastructurally, these deposits were formed by masses of straight, nonbranching fibrils located predominantly in the basement membranes of glomerular capillaries and in the mesangium. Partial sequence of the protein in sheep and goats indicated a high degree of homology with the previously reported sequence of sheep Serum Amyloid A.
Preliminary Observations on the Experimental Transmission of Scrapie to Elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni) by Intracerebral Inoculation
Authors: Hamir A. N. , Miller J. M. , Cutlip R. C. , Stack M. J. , Chaplin M. J. , Jenny A. L.
Published: April 2003

To determine the transmissibility of scrapie to Rocky Mountain elk ( Cervus elaphus nelsoni), six elk calves were inoculated intracerebrally with brain suspension from sheep naturally affected with scrapie. One elk developed a brain abscess and was euthanatized at 7 weeks postinoculation (PI), and two others died at 6 and 15 months PI because of physical injuries. At 25 and 35 months PI, two other elk died after brief terminal neurologic episodes. Necropsy of these revealed moderate weight loss but no other gross lesions. Microscopically, characteristic lesions of spongiform encephalopathy were seen throughout the brains and the spinal cords, and in both cases these tissues were positive for PrPres by immunohistochemistry. Brains of both animals were positive for PrPres by western blot and for scrapie-associated fibrils (SAFs) by negative stain electron microscopy. PrPres and SAFs were not detected in the three elk that died or were euthanatized because of coincidental causes. Over 3.5 years after initiation of this experiment, the one remaining inoculated elk and two uninoculated (control) elk are alive and apparently healthy. These preliminary findings demonstrate that 1) sheep scrapie agent can be transmitted to elk by intracerebral inoculation; 2) the infection can result in severe, widely distributed spongiform change and accumulations of PrPres in the central nervous system (CNS); and 3) based on the examination of a limited number of CNS sections from two cases, this condition cannot be distinguished from chronic wasting disease with currently available diagnostic techniques.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Mammary Gland in a Mare
Authors: Hirayama K. , Honda Y. , Sako T. , Okamoto M. , Tsunoda N. , Tagami M. , Taniyama H.
Published: April 2003

A 21-year-old thoroughbred mare had a 35 X 14 X 10 cm mass involving the mammary gland. Metastases were found in the kidneys, lungs, skeletal muscles, and regional lymph nodes. Histopathologic examination of the tumor revealed a ductal solid carcinoma with extensive intraductal and intralobular involvement and focal infiltration of the adjacent stroma. The intralobular neoplasms were divided into irregularly shaped islands and sheets of polygonal and spindle-shaped epithelial cells by thick or thin fibrous connective tissue bundles. The neoplastic cells had a small or moderate amount of cytoplasm that stained faintly with eosin and round or oval hyperchromatic nuclei. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells were strongly positive for Lu-5, weakly positive for AE1/AE3, vimentin, and glial fibrillary acidic protein, and negative for cytokeratin 8, cytokeratin 14, a-smooth muscle actin, calponin, and S100. The neoplasm was diagnosed as an invasive ductal carcinoma of the mammary gland with multiple metastases.
Classical Swine Fever: Pathology of Bone Marrow
Authors: Gómez-Villamandos J. C. , Salguero F. J. , Ruiz-Villamor E. , Sánchez-Cordón P. J. , Bautista M. J. , Sierra M. A.
Published: April 2003

Twenty pigs were inoculated with a virulent isolate (Quillota strain) of classical swine fever (CSF) virus to determine the chronological development of lesions in bone marrow. Histopathologic, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical (detection of viral antigen gp55, myeloid-histiocyte antigen, CD3 antigen, and FVIII-rag), and morphometric techniques were employed. Viral antigen was detected from 2 days postinfection (dpi) in stromal and haematopoitic cells, and severe atrophy related to apoptosis of haematopoitic cells was observed. Megakaryocytes (MKs) did not show significant changes in number, but there were important qualitative changes including 1) increased numbers of cloud-nuclei MKs, microMKs, apoptotic MKs, and atypical nucleated MKs and 2) decreased number of typical nucleated MKs. Morphometric study of these cells showed a decrease in cytoplasmic area. MK infection was detected from 2 dpi, but in a small percentage of cells. Myeloid cells showed quantitative changes, with an increase in granulocyte numbers. Apoptosis of lymphocytes and viral infection of erythroblasts were also observed. The main changes in stroma were depletion of T lymphocytes in the middle phase of the experiment and macrophages. Viral infection was also observed in these cells. MK lesions suggest dysmegakaryocytopoiesis, which would aggravate the thrombocytopenia already present and could be responsible for it. Granulocyte changes would lead to the appearance of circulating immature forms, whereas lymphocyte apoptosis in bone marrow would contribute to lymphopenia.
Expression of Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 But Not Interleukin-8 in Granulomatous Lesions in Lymph Nodes from Pigs with Naturally Occurring Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome
Authors: Kim J. , Chae C.
Published: April 2003

Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) but not interleukin-8 (IL-8) was detected by in situ hybridization using a nonradioactive digoxigenin-labeled complementary DNA probe in granulomatous lesions of lymph nodes from 20 pigs with naturally occurring postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS). Complementary DNA probes of 375 and 266 base pairs for MCP-1 and IL-8, respectively, were generated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The 20 pigs with PMWS had distinct positive hybridization signals for MCP-1 but not for IL-8. The hybridization signals for MCP-1 were strictly confined to the cells with granulomatous lesions, including macrophages and multinucleated giant cells. A very close cell-to-cell correlation between MCP-1 and porcine circovirus 2 was seen in serial sections of lymph nodes. Results of this study indicate that MCP-1 expression may play a role in the pathogenesis of granulomatous inflammation in pigs with PMWS.
In‐Situ Synthesis of Al2O3 Reinforced Ni‐Based Composites
Authors: Travitzky N. , Kumar P. , Sandhage K.H. , Janssen R. , Claussen N.
Published: April 2003

Dense and crack‐free metal matrix composites consisting of a Ni‐CO‐Cr_Al alloy with an interpenetrating network of Al2O3 (see Figure) were fabricated by short distance infiltration. The volume fraction of phases (alumina and alloy) and composition of metal matrix can be controlled by the composition of the green compacts. The synthesized composites exhibit very good mechanical properties at room temperature.
Silica Supported Sodium Hydrogen Sulfate and Amberlyst‐15: Two Efficient Heterogeneous Catalysts for Facile Synthesis of Bis‐ and Tris(1H‐indol‐3‐yl)methanes from Indoles and Carbonyl Compounds[1]
Authors: Ramesh Chimmani , Banerjee Joydeep , Pal Rammohan , Das Biswanath
Published: April 2003

Bis‐ and tris(1H‐indol‐3‐yl)methanes are synthesized in high yields by an electrophilic substitution reaction of indoles with carbonyl compounds under mild reaction conditions using two efficient heterogeneous catalysts, silica supported sodium hydrogen sulfate (NaHSO4⋅SiO2) and amberlyst‐15. The second catalyst can be reused.
Species‐specific usage of sleeping sites in two sympatric mouse lemur species (Microcebus murinus and M. ravelobensis) in northwestern Madagascar
Authors: Radespiel Ute , Ehresmann Petra , Zimmermann Elke
Published: April 2003

We investigated the sleeping site ecology of two sympatric mouse lemur species (Microcebus murinus and M. ravelobensis) in northwestern Madagascar during the second half of the dry season with respect to the type, quality, and usage pattern of the sleeping sites, as well as to social sleeping habits and response to potential threats. The type and quality of the sleeping sites differed between the two species. M. murinus used protected wooden shelters (tree holes) more frequently than M. ravelobensis, and M. ravelobensis used a broader variety of less protected sites (e.g., branches, lianas, and leaves) than M. murinus. Whereas male M. murinus usually slept alone, and female M. murinus mostly slept in groups, both sexes of M. ravelobensis slept in mixed‐sex sleeping groups. M. murinus relied on crypsis in their sleeping sites, whereas M. ravelobensis regularly showed a flight response to the approach of an observer. This behavioral difference could indicate an adaptation to a higher predation risk in less protected sleeping sites. Whereas female M. murinus showed a high site fidelity, male M. murinus and both sexes of M. ravelobensis frequently changed their sleeping sites, which may also be interpreted as an antipredator strategy. The results are discussed with respect to three possible ecological explanations: interspecies competition, restricted resource availability, and niche differentiation. The latter is the most likely explanation for these interspecific differences. Am. J. Primatol. 59:139–151, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinal variation of maxillary sinus volume in Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata)
Authors: Rae Todd C. , Hill Russell A. , Hamada Yuzuru , Koppe Thomas
Published: April 2003

Macaques (genus Macaca) are unique among cercopithecids in that they possess a maxillary sinus, and among anthropoids in that they demonstrate a relatively weak relationship between the size of this sinus and the cranium. To test the hypothesis that extrinsic factors may contribute to maxillary sinus size variation, a sample of 46 Japanese macaque (M. fuscata) crania from known localities were subjected to computed tomography (CT) imaging, and sinus volume and nasal cavity area were analyzed relative to latitude and temperature variables. The results suggest that the environmental factors are significant determinants of nasal cavity size in Japanese macaques, but that the relationships between the environment and maxillary sinus volume (MSV) are probably a passive consequence of changes in the size of the nasal cavity. The sinus shrinks as the nasal cavity expands, due to an increased need to condition inspired air in colder climates. This in turn suggests that the sinus itself does not contribute significantly to upper respiratory function. Am. J. Primatol. 59:153–158, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of amino acids on cryopreservation of cynomolgus monkey (macaca fascicularis) sperm
Authors: Li Yahui , Si Wei , Zhang Xiuzhen , Dinnyes Andras , Ji Weizhi
Published: April 2003

The effects of three amino acids (proline, glutamine, and glycine) added to the freezing medium Tes‐Tris‐egg yolk (TTE) for cryopreservation of cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) spermatozoa were studied. This is the first report on the effects of amino acids on nonhuman primate sperm cryopreservation. The addition of 5mM proline, 10mM glutamine, and 10 or 20mM glycine each significantly improved post‐thaw sperm motility and membrane and acrosome integrity compared with the control (TTE alone). However, a significant decrease in motility and membrane/acrosome integrity was observed when amino acid concentrations increased to 60mM for proline and glutamine, and 80mM for glycine. The results suggest that adding a limited amount of amino acids to the freezing media is beneficial for freezing cynomolgus monkey sperm. Am. J. Primatol. 59:159–165, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stent deployment for peripheral venous stenosis as a result of radiation therapy
Authors: Franklin Wayne J. , Strickman Neil E. , Hall Robert J.
Published: April 2003

Arterial occlusive disease is a well‐known complication of radiation therapy, but venous thrombosis and occlusion after radiotherapy may also occur. We report the use of an endovascular stent to treat a patient who developed peripheral venous stenosis 4 years after radiation therapy for malignant melanoma. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2003;59: 60–62. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A role for innate immunity in type 1 diabetes?
Authors: Beyan H. , Buckley L. R. , Yousaf N. , Londei M. , Leslie R. D. G.
Published: April 2003

Two arms of the immune system, innate and adaptive immunity, differ in their mode of immune recognition. The innate immune system recognizes a few highly conserved structures on a broad range of microorganisms. On the other hand, recognition of self or autoreactivity is generally confined to the adaptive immune response. Whilst autoimmune features are relatively common, they should be distinguished from autoimmune disease that is infrequent. Type 1 diabetes is an immune‐mediated disease due to the destruction of insulin secreting cells mediated by aggressive immune responses, including activation of the adaptive immune system following genetic and environmental interaction. Hypotheses for the cause of the immune dysfunction leading to type 1 diabetes include self‐reactive T‐cell clones that (1) escape deletion in the thymus, (2) escape from peripheral tolerance or (3) escape from homeostatic control with an alteration in the immune balance leading to autoimmunity. Evidence, outlined in this review, raises the possibility that changes in the innate immune system could lead to autoimmunity, by either priming or promoting aggressive adaptive immune responses. Hostile microorganisms are identified by genetically determined surface receptors on innate effector cells, thereby promoting clearance of these invaders. These innate effectors include a few relatively inflexible cell populations such as monocytes/macrophages, dendritic cells (DC), natural killer (NK) cells, natural killer T (NKT) cells and γδ T cells. Recent studies have identified abnormalities in some of these cells both in patients with type 1 diabetes and in those at risk of the disease. However, it remains unclear whether these abnormalities in innate effector cells predispose to autoimmune disease. If they were to do so, then modulation of the innate immune system could be of therapeutic value in preventing immune‐mediated diseases such as type 1 diabetes. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induction of long‐term normoglycemia without medication in Korean type 2 diabetes patients after continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy
Authors: Park Sunmin , Choi Soo Bong
Published: April 2003

Background

Our previous studies showed that some Korean type 2 diabetic patients could maintain long‐term normal blood glucose control without any medication, referred to as remission after a certain period of normalization of blood glucose level by continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) treatment. In this study we determined the clinical characteristics that influenced the induction of remission.

Methods

Ninety‐one type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients were treated with CSII therapy. Follow‐up examinations took place monthly, for sixteen months, at an outpatient clinic where blood glucose levels and insulin dosage were monitored.

Results

Overall, in 34.4% of all subjects, remission was induced after 53.6 ± 38.9 days of CSII therapy and lasted for an average of 13.6 ± 8.9 months during the study period. The total daily insulin dosage given to normalize blood glucose levels reached a maximum dosage at 7.3 ± 1.2 days and gradually decreased in all subjects. It did not significantly decrease beyond 14.4 ± 2.7 days of therapy in patients who did not experience remission, but did continuously decrease and reached zero in patients with remission. Remission rates were higher when patients started CSII therapy with a shorter history of diabetes, lower postprandial blood glucose levels, higher body mass index (BMI), and fewer chronic diabetic complications.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that CSII therapy can induce remission in a significant proportion of Korean type 2 DM patients. The possibility of remission is higher if the severity of glucose toxicity is lower at the initiation stage of the therapy. It is suggested that CSII therapy might be considered as an early treatment for type 2 diabetic patients. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polyol pathway and protein kinase C activity of rat Schwannoma cells
Authors: Kamiya Hideki , Nakamura Jiro , Hamada Yoji , Nakashima Eitaro , Naruse Keiko , Kato Koichi , Yasuda Yutaka , Hotta Nigishi
Published: April 2003

Background

Polyol pathway hyperactivity‐induced decreases in protein kinase C (PKC) activities have been proposed as a pathogenic mechanism of diabetic neuropathy. Increased PKC activities have recently been invoked in the pathogenesis of other diabetic complications, especially retinopathy, nephropathy, and macroangiopathy. However, it remains unclear whether PKC activities in neural cells such as Schwann cells are increased, decreased, or unchanged. This study investigated the effects of high glucose and increased polyol pathway activity on neural cell growth and PKC activities.

Methods

Rat Schwannoma cells were cultured in 5.5 or 20 mM glucose in the presence or absence of an aldose reductase inhibitor, epalrestat (1 µM) for 14 days. Proliferation activities, PKC activities, and the protein expression of PKC isoforms were measured.

Results

Proliferation and PKC activities under the 20 mM glucose condition were significantly decreased compared to those under the 5.5 mM glucose condition and were prevented by epalrestat. Among PKC isoforms, the protein expression of PKC‐α under the 20 mM glucose condition was significantly reduced compared to that under the 5.5 mM glucose condition. Epalrestat significantly inhibited the decreased expression of PKC‐α protein. There were no significant changes in the protein expression of PKC‐β.

Conclusions

These results suggest that PKC, especially PKC‐α activity, is decreased in Schwann cells exposed to high glucose and that this deficit is mediated through polyol pathway hyperactivity. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evidence for distinct genetic effects on obesity and lipid‐related CVD risk factors in diabetic compared to nondiabetic American Indians: the Strong Heart Family Study
Authors: North Kari E. , MacCluer Jean W. , Williams Jeff T. , Welty Thomas K. , Best Lyle G. , Lee Elisa T. , Fabsitz Richard R. , Howard Barbara V.
Published: April 2003

Background

The relationship between diabetes and increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is well established. Previous data from the Strong Heart Family Study (SHFS) have demonstrated significant heritabilities for CVD risk factors and implicated diabetes as an important predictor of several of the phenotypes in three large groups of American Indians in Arizona (AZ), Oklahoma (OK), and the Dakotas (DK). However, the genetic architecture of this relationship is not well understood. The purpose of the present paper is to determine whether the genetic effects on CVD risk factors in the SHFS are different in diabetic and nondiabetic individuals.

Methods

Approximately 950 men and women, 18 years or older, in 32 extended families, were examined between 1997 and 1999. Interaction between genotype and diabetes status was estimated for nine CVD risk factors [body fat mass (FAT), body mass index (BMI), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), log‐transformed fibrinogen, log‐transformed triglycerides, log‐transformed urinary albumin : creatinine ratio (LACR), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI‐1), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR)], using a maximum likelihood variance decomposition technique.

Results

We found evidence that genetic factors influencing BMI, FAT, log‐transformed triglycerides, HDL‐C, and WHR are differentially expressed in individuals with diabetes compared to those without diabetes.

Conclusion

Thus, in the environmental and genetic milieu of diabetes, there may be distinct genetic determinants of various CVD risk factors. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combined bedtime insulin–daytime sulphonylurea regimen compared with two different daily insulin regimens in type 2 diabetes: effects on HbA1c and hypoglycaemia rate—a randomised trial
Authors: Stehouwer M. H. A. , DeVries J. H. , Lumeij J. A. E. , Adèr H. J. , Engbers A. M. S. , Iperen A. van , Snoek F. J. , Heine R. J.
Published: April 2003

Background

Several efficacy studies of insulin‐therapy regimens in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus have shown varying results. Moreover, most studies did not address hypoglycaemia frequency and severity.

Methods

In this multicentre study, we compared the glycaemic efficacy and incidence rate of hypoglycaemic episodes between 3 treatment regimens in obese type 2 diabetic patients with secondary failure to sulphonylurea and metformin. During the run‐in phase, patients were treated with glimepiride and metformin. After 3 months, 261 patients with HbA1c values >6.5% were randomised to (A) glimepiride + Neutral Protein Hagedorn (NPH) insulin at bedtime, (B) NPH insulin twice daily and (C) 30/70 mixture of short‐acting and NPH insulin twice daily. The therapeutic aim was an HbA1c level ≤6.5%.

Results

Mean HbA1c achieved at 9 months was significantly higher in group A: 8.9% versus 8.3% and 8.4% in groups B and C, respectively (P < 0.001). There was no difference in the mild hypoglycaemic event rate, 0.36 versus 0.48 versus 0.53 events per patient month, in groups A, B and C, respectively. Severe hypoglycaemic events, requiring help from others, did not occur throughout the study. The mean weight gain and insulin dose were comparable in all three groups.

Conclusions

The glimepiride + NPH insulin treatment resulted in a higher HbA1c level, as compared to the other regimens. In the clinical setting of this multicentre study, good glycaemic control was only achieved in a minority of the patients, irrespective of the applied regimen. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GLP‐1 receptor agonists are growth and differentiation factors for pancreatic islet beta cells
Authors: Egan Josephine M. , Bulotta Angela , Hui Hongxiang , Perfetti Riccardo
Published: April 2003

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) is an incretin hormone that, when given exogenously, is capable of normalizing blood glucose in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Until recently most of the research on this compound had been related to its insulinotropic properties. However, GLP‐1 also regulates insulin synthesis and proinsulin gene expression, as well as the components of the glucose‐sensing machinery. In addition to regulating insulin release, it is involved in regulating the secretion of at least two other islet hormones—glucagon and somatostatin. Extraislet effects of GLP‐1 include a role in the central nervous system stress response, hypothalamic‐pituitary function, and the suppression of gastric emptying.

Recent studies from our own and other laboratories show that GLP‐1 can regulate islet growth and is a differentiation factor of the endocrine pancreas. This leads us to propose that GLP‐1 and GLP‐1 receptor agonists, in the context of long‐term treatment of type 2 diabetes, will have broader biological action on the endocrine pancreas than was earlier anticipated. We propose that GLP‐1 is a growth factor for pancreatic endocrine cells and can increase islet cell mass. Here we review those reports that have highlighted its role as a factor for islet cell growth and differentiation. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment of diabetic nephropathy in its early stages
Authors: Deferrari Giacomo , Ravera Maura , Berruti Valeria
Published: April 2003

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most frequent causes of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), and, in recent years, the number of diabetic patients entering renal replacement therapy has dramatically increased. The magnitude of the problem has led to numerous efforts to identify preventive and therapeutic strategies. In normoalbuminuric patients, optimal glycemic control (HbA1c lower than 7.5%) plays a fundamental role in the primary prevention of ESRD [weighted mean relative risk reduction (RRR) ∼37% for metabolic control versus trivial renoprotection for intensive anti‐hypertensive therapy or ACE‐inhibitors (ACE‐I)]. In the microalbuminuric stage, strict glycemic control probably reduces the incidence of overt nephropathy (weighted mean RRR ∼50%), while blood pressure levels below 130/80 mmHg are recommended according to the average blood pressure levels obtained in various studies. In normotensive patients, ACE‐I markedly reduce the development of overt nephropathy almost regardless of blood pressure levels; in hypertensive patients, ACE‐I are less clearly active (weighted mean RRR ∼23% versus other drugs), whereas angiotensin‐receptor blockers (ARB) appear strikingly renoprotective. Once overt proteinuria appears, it is uncertain whether glycemic control affects the progression of nephropathy. In type 1 diabetes, various anti‐hypertensive treatments, mainly ACE‐I, are effective in slowing down the progression of nephropathy; in type 2 diabetes, two recent studies demonstrate that ARB are superior to conventional therapy or calcium channel blockers (CCB). In clinical practice, pharmacological tools are not always used to the best benefit of the patients. Therefore, clinicians and patients need to be educated regarding the renoprotection of drugs inhibiting the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) and the overwhelming importance of achieving target blood pressure. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence and sociodemographic determinants of overweight in young French adolescents
Authors: Klein‐Platat C. , Wagner A. , Haan M. C. , Arveiler D. , Schlienger J. L. , Simon C.
Published: April 2003

Background

The prevalence of overweight in adults and in children is increasing in most industrialised countries. Our purpose is to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity in a population of 12‐year‐old French adolescents and to analyse its association with different sociodemographic factors.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in 2001 on a representative sample of sixth‐grade adolescents (mean age 12.1 ± 0.6 years) living in the Department of the Bas‐Rhin (Eastern part of France). Height and weight were measured in 4326 adolescents. Overweight and obesity were defined as recommended by the International Obesity Task Force. Sociodemographic data were obtained for 3436 adolescents.

Results

The prevalence of overweight was 22.7% (17.5% of moderate overweight and 5.2% of obesity) and it was not different by gender or by size of the commune of residence. Overweight was more frequent in low economic zones (p < 10−4 in girls, p < 10−2 in boys) and in public schools than in private schools (p < 10−3 in girls). The prevalence of overweight was inversely associated with family income tax (p < 10−3 in girls, p = 0.012 in boys), mother's (p = 10−4 in girls, p = 10−3 in boys) and father's (p = 0.001 in girls, p = 0.004 in boys) educational level. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated an independent association of being overweight with low family income tax (p = 0.2195) and poor mother's educational level (p = 0.0193).

Conclusions

This study indicates that, as in other industrialised countries, much overweight and obesity are present in 12‐year‐old French adolescents. It suggests the existence of an influence of socio‐economic factors with a predominant effect of the mother's educational level rather than the financial resources. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Pro12Ala PPARγ2 gene missense mutation is associated with obesity and insulin resistance in Swedish middle‐aged men
Authors: Rosmond Roland , Chagnon Monique , Bouchard Claude
Published: April 2003

Background

A missense mutation in exon B of the adipocyte‐specific isoform peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ2 (PPARγ2) has recently been described, leading to the substitution of proline to alanine at codon 12, which causes a reduction in the transcriptional activity of PPARγ2. The Pro12Ala PPARγ2 polymorphism has been variably associated with obesity, insulin sensitivity, and dyslipidemia.

Aims and methods

In the present study, we addressed the hypothesis that the Pro12Ala variant is associated with obesity and estimates of insulin, glucose, and lipid metabolism as well as circulating hormones including salivary cortisol in 284 unrelated Swedish men born in 1944. The subjects were genotyped by using PCR amplification of exon B of the PPARγ2 gene followed by digestion with the restriction enzyme BstUI.

Results

Tests for differences between the PPARγ2 genotypes revealed that the PPARγ2 Ala homozygotes (n = 6) had higher body mass index (P = 0.022), abdominal sagittal diameter (P = 0.038), and nearly 3 times higher fasting insulin levels (P < 0.001) as well as higher HOMA insulin‐resistance index (P = 0.011) compared to the PPARγ2 Pro homozygotes (n = 186). This association was independent of body mass and fat distribution. In addition, subjects with the Ala/Ala genotype had lower total cholesterol (P = 0.012) as well as a trend toward lower high‐ and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.071 and P = 0.095) compared to the other PPARγ2 genotypes.

Conclusion

In summary, these findings both confirm and expand the current notion that the PPARγ2 gene might play a role in the etiology of obesity and that genetic variability in PPARγ2 is associated with variations in body fat mass and insulin sensitivity. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An arbitrary scale image enlargement method with the prediction of high‐frequency components
Authors: Takahashi Yasumasa , Taguchi Akira
Published: April 2003

Enlargement of digital images is equivalent to narrowing the sampling spacing. Hence, it is necessary for enlargement of the digital images to estimate the high‐frequency components lost in the sampling by some means. Recently, an enlargement method accompanied by estimation of lost high‐frequency components has been proposed. The present authors have also noted the Laplacian pyramid layer expression, which is a multiresolution representation of digital images, and have proposed an enlargement method to estimate lost high‐frequency components. Based on the Laplacian pyramid layered representation, estimation of unknown high‐frequency components is equivalent to estimation of unknown high‐resolution Laplacian components. Since the layered expression of the Laplacian pyramid has band division encoding as the objective, the image size between the layers is 2 and the enlargement method based on this expression is also limited to 2. However, it is possible to obtain a layered expression with an arbitrary size ratio by varying the passband width of the Gaussian filter and eliminating the pixels corresponding to the bandwidth, in place of continuous use of the half‐band Gaussian filter and downsampling of the usual Laplacian pyramid layered image. In this paper, based on this concept, an enlargement method with high‐frequency component estimation that allows setting of an arbitrary enlargement rate is proposed. The effectiveness of the proposed method is clarified from abundant application examples. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 41–51, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10018
Improvement of perceptual watermarking based on the multiresolution analysis of still images
Authors: Miyazaki Akio , Kabashima Osami
Published: April 2003

Electronic watermarking has drawn attention as a way to prevent or limit unauthorized copying of digital contents and has been studied and improved extensively. In this paper, as an improved version of the electronic watermarking method proposed by Cox, a method is proposed in which a pseudorandom number sequence is embedded as watermarking information into the wavelet coefficients of the image. In this method, two conventional schemes known as improvements of Cox's method are included. With regard to this electronic watermarking scheme, the detection accuracy of the watermarking information and the quality of the image with watermarking are analyzed. It is shown that the detection accuracy of the watermarking information is better than in the conventional scheme. This conclusion is verified by numerical experiments. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 31–40, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10036
Applying the genetic programming to modeling of diffusion processes by using the CNN and its applications to the synchronization
Authors: Yakabe Masayuki , Tokinaga Shozo
Published: April 2003

The CNN (Cellular Neural Network) has been proposed as a method of describing the system behavior of neuron coupling with a network structure. This is convenient for analysis of decision risk diffusion in economic society. However, in general, analysis of diffusion becomes possible only after inference of the system dynamics from the observed data. In this paper, using the GP (Genetic Programming) technique, a method is proposed for estimation of dynamics in the CNN. Based on this proposal, the signal diffusion is discussed and a method is proposed for controlling propagation. In order to approximate the system equation in CNN by GP, functions such as piecewise linear ones are prepared in addition to elementary operations. With these and the tree structure containing variables, the individual in the GP is defined. In the GP, two individuals with large degrees of fitness are selected. Crossover processing in the GP is carried out at an appropriately determined place so that an individual with higher capability for approximating the function is generated. In this method, it is shown that approximation is possible, including the system equation of the CNN exhibiting chaotic characteristics. Next, a method of estimating the propagation condition of the signal in CNN by using the estimated system equation is adopted. The results are compared with those derived by simulation and the validity of the computational equation is discussed. In this way, the diffusion coefficient for truncating the signal propagation on the network can be estimated. Further, using the fact that the system equation is available, a control method for synchronization for convergence of the cell state to a stationary point or a limit cycle is proposed. In this method, by means of the measured dynamical results, an appropriate control input in the feedback control can be estimated, allowing control to a balanced level to be attained within a shorter time. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 19–30, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10064
Velocity estimation and detection of moving objects by using extended complex Kalman filters in the mixed domain
Authors: Kondo Katsuya , Maeda Kazunori , Konishi Yasuo , Ishigaki Hiroyuki
Published: April 2003

In this paper, a transform/spatiotemporal mixed‐domain filter is proposed that extracts a moving object with its trajectory varying in time (arbitrary trajectory signal). The trajectory signal in a mixed domain can be considered as a bunch of one‐dimensional complex signals. In the case of an arbitrary trajectory signal, this is a bunch of quasi‐periodic signals in which the periods of the one‐dimensional complex signals change in time. Hence, in the proposed method, the arbitrary trajectory signal is extracted by designing a parallel bank of extended complex Kalman filters for estimating the quasi‐periodic signals. The effectiveness of the proposed method is clarified by simulation. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 1–10, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10084
Large‐vocabulary spontaneous speech recognition using a corpus of lectures
Authors: Nishimura Masafumi , Itoh Nobuyasu
Published: April 2003

Now that dictation systems have become a reality, research on large‐vocabulary voice recognition is shifting from “read speech” to “spontaneous speech.” The features of this kind of spontaneous speech have been investigated from various perspectives using a corpus of dialog speech. However, in particular for the Japanese language, creating a voice recognition system which has massive amounts of data and is based on statistical methods is not necessarily sufficient. There have been few reports on the performance of a large‐vocabulary voice recognition system whose purpose is tagging spontaneous speech. The authors have prepared a spontaneous speech corpus using as materials lecture speeches from the University of the Air for the purpose of improving the recognition precision for spontaneous speech. They report here on the recognition performance of their large‐vocabulary spontaneous speech recognition system created using this corpus. The results of experiments showed that the word error rate for lecture speeches, which was 51.5% under conventional systems that use reading, was reduced to 16.4%. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 52–60, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www. interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10105
A linear space representation of language probability through SVD of N‐gram matrix
Authors: Terashima Shiro , Takeda Kazuya , Itakura Fumitada
Published: April 2003

The number of parameters necessary for the word N‐gram model is equal to then‐th power of the size of the vocabulary. As a result, compression of the parameter space is vital, depending on the field in question. In this research, singular value decomposition (SVD) of anN‐pair word co‐occurrence matrix is performed. The word and phrase state are taken to be vectors in aK‐dimensional space. The authors then attempt to compress the N‐gram probability parameter space using an approximation of the original matrix but with a lower number of dimensions. The results clearly show that in vector space, the Trigram model can be represented using roughly 17.5% fewer parameters. In addition, clustering is performed based on the distance in the defined space, and whether or not words are positioned appropriately in the linear space is investigated. These results confirm through a comparison using the same number of parameters that the entropy value is lower compared to the class model obtained using a method based on the maximization of the amount of mutual information, and that the positioning is good. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 61–70, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10106
Replaying a learner's temporal sequence of instruction on Web‐based learning system
Authors: Ohkawa Masahito , Murota Masao , Nakayama Minoru , Shimizu Yasutaka
Published: April 2003

Learning material provided over the Internet is useful to the learner. But the provider of the learning material has no way of knowing the subsequent learning experience of the learner. Thus, the following system was developed in this study. For a learner who accesses the Internet, the learning history is recorded. Then, the system replays the presented screens as a temporal sequence as traced by the learner. The system is applied to learning material with animated presentation and numerical computation simulation functions, and the behavior of the system is investigated. By applying the proposed system, the learning process of the learner at a large number of remote sites can be reproduced. The system can be applied to improve Web‐based educational materials. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 71–78, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www. interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10107
Learning goal ontology for structuring a collaborative learning group supported by learning theories
Authors: Inaba Akiko , Supnithi Thepchai , Ikeda Mitsuru , Mizoguchi Riichiro , Toyoda Jun'ichi
Published: April 2003

The purpose of this paper is to reorganize the interaction configuration in collaborative learning and the learning theory that guarantees the validity of the expected learning effect. It is intended to indicate the structure of the collaborative learning group which is effective in achieving the learning goal of the individual. By this approach, the configurations of the learning group and the interactions which have been intacitly assumed in the learning theories are clearly compared, and it is made possible to form a learning group supported by learning theory according to the purpose of the learner. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 79–90, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10108
IDO method with higher hermite interpolation and its accuracy check by the use of advection‐diffusion equation
Authors: Nara Masanori , Takaki Ryuji
Published: April 2003

The IDO method, known as a numerical method suitable for partial differential equations containing an advection term, is improved in terms of its accuracy. In the method proposed in this paper, the order of Hermite interpolation is increased with a parameter h in order to deal with the higher order differential coefficients as independent variables. (In the conventional IDO method, h = 3 for calculation of the advection term and h = 5 for calculation of the diffusion term.) When this method is applied to a one‐dimensional advection‐diffusion equation, it is found that the numerical error is reduced to about 1/5 of that in the conventional IDO method if h = 7 is used. By using two mutually overlapping grid systems, the scheme becomes stable. Further stability is achieved by applying the time‐splitting method. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(8): 11–18, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10124
New Modes of Productivity for Student Learning
Authors: Walvoord Barbara E.
Published: April 2003

Productivity strategies such as delegating instruction to computers, minimizing redundant course taking, and the like may not work. To enhance the productivity of today's students, this chapter recommends that institutions take five steps: delineate learning goals, assess student performance, understand how to achieve learning with the particular student population, consider options for increasing productivity, and ensure institutionwide support.