bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supramolecular Biomaterials. A Modular Approach towards Tissue Engineering
Authors: Dankers Patricia Y W , Meijer E W
Published: November 2007

Supramolecular chemistry is an exciting area of science that plays a central role in bringing different disciplines together, ranging from molecular medicine to nanotechnology. Materials science based on supramolecular interactions is an emerging field, which has made important steps forward in the past ten years. The self-assembly of small synthetic molecules into long-chain architectures gives rise to the careful design of supramolecular polymers or fibers based on highly directional, reversible, non-covalent interactions. Much afford is put into the development of supramolecular (polymeric) materials with true materials properties, both in solution and in the solid state. These supramolecular materials are beginning to reach the market in all kind of applications. The field of regenerative medicine in general and that of tissue engineering in particular is one of the most challenging areas in which supramolecular materials might have a high potential. In tissue engineering, the biological environment and the interactions of cells with the artificial biomaterial is of utmost importance for the functioning of the implant, i.e. the engineered tissue. Ideal biomaterials do not only have to fulfil the biomaterials trinity of tuneable mechanical properties, regulation of the degradability and the ease for bioactivity incorporation, but also have to mimic the natural environment where the materials are brought into. Therefore, a modular, self-assembly approach using several supramolecular building blocks is an exquisite way to produce such “responsive” biomaterials. It is proposed that the artificial materials described in this account have the same type of dynamic ability to adapt its biofunctionality as is so well known for the living cells in the host tissue. This account will highlight two systems, i.e. self-assembling oligopeptide fibers as pioneered by Stupp et al. and Zhang et al., and our hydrogen-bonded supramolecular polymers, to show the potential of a modular approach to dynamic biomaterials for tissue engineering.
Conducting-Polymer-Based Chemical Sensors: Transduction Mechanisms
Authors: Sugiyasu Kazunori , Swager Timothy M
Published: November 2007

Conducting organic polymers show great promise as sensory materials. The transport of charge in these systems imparts the ability to attain high sensitivity to analytes of interest. This contribution reviews a number of different mechanisms by which analytes can interact with organic conducting polymers to create changes in their resistivity. New sensor systems based upon triaryl-methyl carbocations are also reported for the first time. The design of specific molecular recognition can impart selectivity in this process and in addition the nature of the conducting polymer can also lead to selectivity for different analytes.
Highly Efficient Method for Constructing a Single-Stranded Comb-Like Oligonucleotide via Reversible Photocrosslinking
Authors: Ogasawara Shinzi , Yoshimura Yoshinaga , Hayashi Masayuki , Saito Isao , Fujimoto Kenzo
Published: November 2007

Branched oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODNs) are key molecules in constructing nano-scale structures such as DNA lattices, dendrimer-like DNA as well as DNA devices including DNA walkers, DNA memory, and DNA computer. In this paper, two types of highly efficient methods were used to construct the comb-like DNA by using template-directed reversible DNA photocrosslinking via 5-(2-carbamoylvinyl)-2′-deoxyuridine (cvU). The efficiency and thermodynamic stability of three types of reversible DNA photocrosslinked, linear ODN, single-branched ODN (5′-end) and single-branched ODN (mid) reported previously, were also compared. The results show that the most efficient one of the three is a single-branched ODN (5′-end), despite its low thermodynamic stability. In addition, we also showed that this reversible photocrosslinking method is applicable to nanotechnology by constructing comb-like DNA. This method should have great potential in nanotechnology by serving as a platform for fabrication and synthesis, because their sizes and structures can be changed through the alteration of building blocks. We believe that this method is versatile and may find a myriad of applications in the nano-biotechnology field.
Driving Force for a Catalyzed Reaction Derived from a Reaction Rate Spectrum
Authors: Yasuda Yusuke
Published: November 2007

Based on the acceleration of Gibbs free energy, −d2G⁄dt2, a kinetic (or falls) model for a catalyzed CO oxidation was developed. Since GT(t) of the system inevitably decreases during a reaction, it may be regarded as the height of water in the model; −d2GT⁄dt2≡FT corresponding to gravity, may be regarded as the driving force for the reaction to occur. The reaction mechanism for CO(X)+(1/2)O2(Y)→CO2(Z) can be divided into two parallel transformations, X↔AX↔BX→ZX and Y↔AY↔BY→ZY, which are composed of the three elementary steps accompanied by intermediate A and B. The driving force FX for AX and BX to proceed and also FY for AY and BY were determined separately. Because FT (=FX+FY), FX, and FY were independent of t in a definite period, they (instead of G(t)) are useful for describing coupling among the elementary steps and correlations among the intermediates. The reaction can be written X+Y+@→Z∗+@, where Z∗ means that Z leaving catalysts has hyperthermal energy and @ denotes the active site where BY (assigned to subsurface oxygen) is located. The present dissipative structure is supported by FT, not by any autocatalytic reaction.
Matrix-Isolation Infrared Spectroscopic and Density Functional Theory Studies on Reactions of Laser-Ablated Lead and Tin Atoms with Water Molecules
Authors: Teng Yun-Lei , Jiang Ling , Han Song , Xu Qiang
Published: November 2007

Reactions of laser-ablated lead and tin atoms with water molecules in excess argon were studied by infrared spectroscopy. Insertion products HMOH and HMO (M=Pb and Sn) formed in the present experiments and characterized using infrared spectroscopy on the basis of the results of isotopic shifts, mixed isotopic splitting patterns, stepwise annealing, changes in reagent concentration and laser energy, and a comparison with theoretical predictions. Density functional theory calculations were performed on these molecules and the corresponding transition states. Agreement between the experimental and calculated vibrational frequencies, relative absorption intensities, and isotopic shifts supports the identification of these molecules from the matrix infrared spectra. Plausible reaction mechanisms have been proposed to account for the formation of these molecules.
Novel Solid-State 8H+-Heteropolyacid. Synthesis and Molecular Structure of a Free-Acid Form of a Dawson-Type Sandwich Complex, [Ti2{P2W15O54(OH2)2}2]8−
Authors: Murakami Hideyuki , Hayashi Kunihiko , Tsukada Ikuo , Hasegawa Takeshi , Yoshida Shoko , Miyano Rie , Kato Chika Nozaki , Nomiya Kenji
Published: November 2007

The preparation and structural characterization of a novel molecular solid Brønsted acid based on the Dawson-type sandwich polyoxometalate (POM) are described. The free-acid form of POM, i.e., 8H+-heteropolyacid with the formula H8[Ti2{P2W15O54(OH2)2}2]·31H2O (1) (H8[1a]·31H2O), was prepared by using three different methods: In Method 1, a cation-exchange resin column was used to separate precursor K14H2[Ti2(P2W15O56)2]·26H2O (2), and in Methods 2 and 3, a traditional ether-extraction method was applied for the other precursors, i.e., isolated or in situ generated compound of the tetrameric Ti–O–Ti anhydride species of trititanium(IV)-substituted Dawson POM, K25[{P2W15Ti3O57.5(OH)3}4Cl]·55H2O (3). Compound 1 was characterized by using complete elemental analysis, thermogravimetric (TG) and differential thermal analysis (DTA), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, (31P, 183W) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and potentiometric titration with n-butylamine. The molecular structure of 1a indicated it to be a di-lacunary species of the saturated sandwich complex, [M4(H2O)2(α-P2W15O56)2]n− (M = transition-metal ions). From the pH-varied 31P NMR spectra of 2 in water, the degree of protonation of the oxygen atoms at the lacunary sites significantly affects the 31P NMR chemical shift. A Hammett acidity constant H0 of 1 in CH3CN (−2.72) was estimated to be almost the same as that of the homo-Dawson heteropolyacid H6[P2W18O62]·17H2O (−2.77).
Preparation and Characterization of Two Solid Supramolecular Inclusion Complexes of Guaiacol with β- and γ-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Song Le Xin , Wang Hai Ming , Yang Yan , Xu Peng
Published: November 2007

Solid inclusion complexes of β- and γ-cyclodextrin (CD) with guaiacol (Gua) were prepared and characterized using elemental analysis, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry, powder X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Based on the results of elemental analysis and 1H NMR, the host–guest stoichiometry of the two solid complexes was determined to be one-to-one. X-ray diffraction patterns of the inclusion complexes gave peak locations consistent with intermolecular complexations between CDs and Gua as well as shape and diffraction intensity of these peaks. The solubility of γ-CD was much less than that of α-CD in water through the complex formation of CD with Gua. Upon inclusion the thermal decomposition point of β-CD or γ-CD as host only slightly increased. However, the thermal stability of the complexed Gua was obviously higher in Gua–β-CD than in Gua–γ-CD. The inclusion phenomenon was attributed to the different strength of intermolecular interactions between host and guest. According to 1H NMR titration measurements, binding constants between Gua and CDs were determined. Furthermore, 1H NMR results indicated that the complexed Gua was likely to have stayed in the wider rim of the cavity of β- or γ-CD. PM3 calculations clearly showed that Gua–γ-CD had the most negative interaction energy, whereas Gua was near the secondary hydroxy rim of the cavity of γ-CD.
Isomer Specific Solvent Effect on Photoisomerization of Photoresponsive Polyphenylene Dendrimers with a Stilbene Core
Authors: Okamoto Tomoko , Momotake Atsuya , Shinohara Yoshihiro , Nagahata Ritsuko , Arai Tatsuo
Published: November 2007

The efficiency of cis-to-trans isomerization of stilbene-cored polyphenylene dendrimer with alkyl chain at the pheriphery was one order of magnitude lower in hexane than in benzene, whereas that of trans-to-cis isomerization was slightly higher in hexane than in benzene.
Examining the Influence of Operational Intellectual Capital on Capabilities and Performance
Authors: Menor Larry J. , Kristal M. Murat , Rosenzweig Eve D.
Published: November 2007

Managers have long been challenged by an abundance of internal and external demands and uncertainties in their operating environments. Anecdotal evidence and a growing number of research studies have advocated process flexibility and product innovation as organization-level operating capabilities critical for responding to such demands and uncertainties, and have highlighted the need for more efficient and effective management of the firm's knowledge-based resources. Leveraging arguments from the resource-based and knowledge-based views of the firm, we introduce a second-order latent construct called operational intellectual capital, which represents the organization's operating know-how embedded in a system of complementary (i.e., covarying) knowledge-based resources. We argue that operational intellectual capital influences organization-level operating capabilities such as process flexibility and product innovation, which, in turn, influence business performance. We empirically examine these relationships using structural equation modeling on a cross-section of U.S. manufacturing survey data. Statistical results from the estimation of a coalignment model and comparisons with several other models support our operational intellectual capacity conceptualization and its impact on operating capabilities and business performance, respectively. Our research thus suggests the importance of possessing and leveraging a system of complementary knowledge-based operating resources, and addresses the need for the reformulation of operations strategy theory in terms of the emergent knowledge-based view of the firm.
In Search of the Bullwhip Effect
Authors: Cachon Gérard P. , Randall Taylor , Schmidt Glen M.
Published: November 2007

The bullwhip effect is the phenomenon of increasing demand variability in the supply chain from downstream echelons (retail) to upstream echelons (manufacturing). The objective of this study is to document the strength of the bullwhip effect in industry-level U.S. data. In particular, we say an industry exhibits the bullwhip effect if the variance of the inflow of material to the industry (what macroeconomists often refer to as the variance of an industry's “production”) is greater than the variance of the industry's sales. We find that wholesale industries exhibit a bullwhip effect, but retail industries generally do not exhibit the effect, nor do most manufacturing industries. Furthermore, we observe that manufacturing industries do not have substantially greater demand volatility than retail industries. Based on theoretical explanations for observing or not observing demand amplification, we are able to explain a substantial portion of the heterogeneity in the degree to which industries exhibit the bullwhip effect. In particular, the less seasonal an industry's demand, the more likely the industry amplifies volatility—highly seasonal industries tend to smooth demand volatility whereas nonseasonal industries tend to amplify.
What Can Be Learned from Classical Inventory Models? A Cross-Industry Exploratory Investigation
Authors: Rumyantsev Sergey , Netessine Serguei
Published: November 2007

Classical inventory models offer a variety of insights into the optimal way to manage inventories of individual products. However, top managers and industry analysts are often concerned with the aggregate macroscopic view of a firm's inventory rather than with the inventories of individual products. Given that classical inventory models often do not account for many practical considerations that a company's management faces (e.g., competition, industry dynamics, business cycles, the financial state of the company and of the economy, etc.) and that they are derived at the product level and not the firm level, can insights from these models be used to explain the inventory dynamics of entire companies? This exploratory study aims to address this issue using empirical data.

We analyze absolute and relative inventories using a quarterly data panel that contains 722 public U.S. companies for the period 1992–2002. We have chosen companies that are not widely diversified and whose business in large part relies on inventory management to concentrate on empirically testing hypotheses derived from a variety of classical inventory models (economic order quantity (EOQ), [Q, r], newsvendor, periodic review, etc.). We find empirical evidence that firms operating with more uncertain demand, longer lead times, and higher gross margins have larger inventories. Furthermore, larger companies appear to benefit from economies of scale and therefore have relatively less inventory than smaller companies. We obtain mixed evidence on the relationship between inventory levels and inventory holding costs. We also analyze the breakdown of data into eight segments—oil and gas, electronics, wholesale, retail, machinery, hardware, food, and chemicals—and find that, with a few notable exceptions, our hypotheses are supported within the segments as well. Overall, our results demonstrate that many of the predictions from classical inventory models extend beyond individual products to the aggregate firm level; hence, these models can help with high-level strategic choices in addition to tactical decisions.
Strengthening the Empirical Base of Operations Management
Authors: Fisher Marshall
Published: November 2007

Isuggest that the prospering fields of physics, medicine, and finance illustrate the value of a strong empirical dimension to research that is well integrated with theoretical research. I use empirical research in these fields to formulate a framework for classifying empirical research and illustrate that framework with a few selected examples in operations management. I offer some advice on data sources and approaches to conducting empirical research and suggest ways strengthening empirical research in operations management. This is obviously a partial treatment of a large subject and represents my personal point of view. This paper should encourage comments by others to further develop the topic and to offer alternative points of view.
Applications of Empirical Science in Manufacturing and Service Operations
Authors: Roth Aleda V.
Published: November 2007

This paper sets the stage for the special issue on the application of empirical science in operations management (OM). It highlights the contributions that empirical science can make to operations management research and practice. In particular, the role of theory building and testing as a motivation for OM empirical research is emphasized. The paper provides a brief history of the empirical tradition in OM and the scholars who were the early pioneers. The paper also gives a brief overview of the most widely used approaches to empirical research and concludes with a summary of the papers that are included in this volume.
‘Social Totalitarianism?’: Children in care in Sweden and the British media
Authors: Gould Arthur
Published: November 2007

A number of articles in the British press have criticised the Swedish welfare state for taking a disproportionate number of children into care compared with other countries. These allegations are described and their origins investigated through an analysis of pressure group activity. Historical and comparative statistical data are presented to discover whether the allegations are justified. The author concludes that the Swedish child care rate is similar to that of England and Wales, and other Scandinavian countries with the exception of Norway.
Consumerism in Health Care: beyond the supermarket model
Authors: Winkler Fedelma
Published: November 2007

The emphasis on consumerism is very new to managers in the health service. This article asks how significant supermarket consumerism is and explores other models of consumerism in health care: community health councils, democratic accountability, user power, provider user partnerships.

The need to reduce the disparity of power between users and providers of the health service is seen as the key factor in attempts to develop meaningful consumerism. The author puts forward six mechanisms to do this and illustrates how these mechanisms can be developed with examples from one community health council.
Alternative Employment Initiatives in Wales: a critical review
Authors: Morris Jonathan
Published: November 2007

This paper reviews the impact of four alternative employment initiatives — enterprise zones, local authority initiatives, the job creation initiatives of nationalised industries and worker co-operatives — in one UK region. Their job creation, impact and potential is assessed in the context of widespread job loss in the region and the demise of government industrial policies.
Systematic reviews in social policy: to go forward, do we first need to look back?
Authors: Pearson Mark
Published: November 2007

English

This article argues that the development of systematic review methods for social policy and practice in the UK has been inhibited in two ways. First, there has been insufficient engagement with the breadth of Donald Campbell’s thought on research methods and knowledge cumulation. To this end, the article outlines the contribution that a fuller understanding of Donald Campbell’s work could make to the development of such methods. Second, debates about the merits of systematic review methods have often shown only a partial understanding of other approaches. The article thus seeks to identify key areas of commonality and difference between approaches to systematic reviews with a view to stimulating methodological development through constructive debate.
Systematic maps to support the evidence base in social care
Authors: Bates Salina , Clapton Janet , Coren Esther
Published: November 2007

English

Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) aims to improve the experience of service users and practitioners by developing and promoting good practice in the social care sector by commissioning and disseminating knowledge-based practice guidance. This article focuses on SCIE’s development of the role of systematic mapping in social care in the UK. It describes the processes of mapping, with an introduction to the role of systematic mapping in delivering an evidence base for social care. Finally, it identifies some of the issues experienced and lessons learned from piloting systematic mapping in two separate social care topics at SCIE.
Fascin Expression in Human Embryonic, Fetal, and Normal Adult Tissue
Authors: Zhang Fa-Ren , Tao Li-Hua , Shen Zhong-Ying , Lv Zhuo , Xu Li-Yan , Li En-Min
Published: November 2007

This study investigates the distribution of fascin in human embryonic, fetal, and normal adult tissues. Tissue microarray technology was used to perform immunohistochemical experiments on human embryos and fetuses at 4–22 weeks of gestation and adult specimens. Fascin was widely expressed in the nervous system. At 4 weeks of gestation, fascin was present in the neural tube. At 8–12 weeks of gestation, homogenous gene expression was seen in cells of the cerebellum and gastrointestinal tract. In later developmental stages and in adults, Purkinje cells of the cerebellum and glandular epithelium of the gastrointestinal tract showed no expression. Fascin was expressed in the cortex and medulla of the adrenal gland at 8–12 weeks of gestation, whereas immunoreactivity decreased from the zona glomerulosa through the zona reticularis and was essentially negative in the adrenal medulla of adults. Significant expression of fascin was seen throughout development in neurons, follicular dendritic cells of lymphoid tissue, basal layer cells of stratified squamous epithelia, mesenchyme, and vascular endothelial cells. Simple columnar epithelia of the biliary duct, colon, ovary, pancreas, and stomach were all negative for fascin expression. These results show that expression of fascin is time specific and highly tissue specific. Parallels between fascin expression in embryogenesis and carcinogenesis are discussed.
Fetal Down Syndrome Brains Exhibit Aberrant Levels of Neurotransmitters Critical for Normal Brain Development
Authors: Whittle Nigel , Sartori Simone B. , Dierssen Mara , Lubec Gert , Singewald Nicolas
Published: November 2007

BACKGROUND. In the immature developing fetal brain, amino acids (such as γ-aminobutyric acid, and taurine) and monoamines (serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine) act as developmental signals or regulators. In subjects with Down syndrome, dysfunctional brain development is evident from birth as reduction in brain weight, as well as volume reductions in specific brain regions, and an altered number of neurons, dendrites, and dendritic branching is observed. However, mechanisms that underlie the observed dysfunctional brain development in Down syndrome are not clear.

OBJECTIVES. Because diverse amino acids and monoamines are critical for normal brain development, we wanted to determine whether dysfunctional brain development observed in subjects with Down syndrome is associated with altered brain amino acid and/or monoamine levels.

DESIGN/METHODS. We quantified tissue concentrations of diverse amino acids, including γ-aminobutyric acid and taurine, and the monoamines serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine in the frontal cortex of fetal Down syndrome tissue at a gestational age of ∼20 weeks versus age-matched control aborted fetuses.

RESULTS. Fetal Down syndrome brains showed reductions in the levels of serotonin, γ-aminobutyric acid, taurine, and dopamine in the frontal cortex. No alteration in the levels of arginine, aspartate, glutamine, glutamate, glycine, histidine, serine, or noradrenaline was observed.

CONCLUSIONS. Serotonin, γ-aminobutyric acid, taurine, and dopamine are critical for the acquisition of brain morphologic features, neuronal and glia proliferation, and synapse formation. The detected reductions in the levels of these neurotransmitters may indicate potential mechanisms for the observed dysfunctional neuronal development in the Down syndrome fetal brain.
Influence of a combination of formic and propionic acids added to wheat- and barley-based diets on the performance and gut histomorphology of broiler chickens
Authors: Senkoylu N. , Samli H. , Kanter M. , Agma Aylin
Published: November 2007

Day-old male chicks were used to test the effects of a combination of formic and propionic acids (CFP) added to wheat- and barley-based diets on the performance and gut histomorphology of broilers. The CFP, containing formic and propionic acids based on an inorganic phyllo-silicate carrier, was added to starter and grower broiler diets of standard (NRC, 1994) or lower nutrient density (LND) using different levels of wheat and barley. Body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broiler chicks were significantly (P < 0.001) improved by CFP supplementation at 21 days of age regardless of nutrient density (ND). However, at 35 days of age CFP addition significantly (P < 0.001) increased BWG and FCR. Proventriculus weight was also significantly affected by the dietary treatments. Ileal viscosity was significantly (P < 0.05) affected by ND which was associated with wheat and barley contents, whereas feed viscosity was significantly (P < 0.05) affected by CFP supplementation. Villus height was significantly (P < 0.05) increased by the CFP supplementation. In the case of villus width, an interaction effect was observed: there was a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in the group fed the standard ND diet, but only a numerical decrease in the group fed the LND diet compared to control group. No significant effect of dietary treatment on the thickness of the lamina muscularis mucosae could be detected.
Kawasaki Disease: Four Case Reports of Cardiopathy with an Institutional and Literature Review
Authors: Ashrafi Amir H. , Wang Jenny , Stockwell Christina A. , Lloyd David , McAlvin James B. , Russo Pierre , Shehata Bahig M.
Published: November 2007

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis condition with a relatively unknown etiology. First described in 1967 by Tomisaku Kawasaki in Japan, KD has come to be widely diagnosed in every region of the world. The disease has a high prevalence in children ages 6 months to 5 years, particularly in those of Japanese descent. Patients often present with a high fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and conjunctival injections, but there is no diagnostic test for KD. This paper presents data from our Kawasaki registry including 99 patients with emphasis on Kawasaki cardiopathy. Three patients died from complications of KD, and 1 patient underwent heart transplant for massive aneurysmal dilatation. The 4 explanted hearts showed a spectrum of pathological findings (acute thrombosis, vasculitis, and myocarditis), and 1 patient showed the long-term sequelae of vasculitis in the form of massive aneurysmal dilatation. Among the survivors, 30% showed aneurysmal dilatation. This paper reviews the most recent information regarding Kawasaki cardiopathy and underlying molecular mechanisms.
Pathology of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in the Placenta, with Emphasis on the “Snowman Sign”
Authors: Jamshed Saad , Kouides Peter , Sham Ronald , Cramer Stewart
Published: November 2007

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) commonly affects women of childbearing age. Although cases of TTP in pregnancy have been reported, the pathology of TTP in the placenta has not been described. In other organs, TTP has a distinctive pathology of arteriolar aneurysms with segmental intramural hyaline deposits. Published many decades ago, these classic papers antedate modern computerized literature searches, so this information has not been included in many modern reviews on TTP. We report 2 cases of TTP in pregnancy, both leading to fetal loss in the 2nd trimester. We noticed a distinctive pathology of TTP in the spiral arteries on the maternal surface of the placenta, particularly the “snowman sign,” which differs somewhat from TTP in other organs due to the fact that TTP is superimposed on trophoblast-induced changes in these spiral arteries. In one of our cases, where the clinical diagnosis of TTP was difficult, the distinctive placental findings helped reinforce the clinical decision to perform potentially life-saving plasmapheresis.
Effect of Increasing Yolk Testosterone Levels on Early Behaviour in Japanese Quail Hatchlings
Authors: Okuliarová M. , Škrobánek P. , Zeman M.
Published: November 2007

The aim of our study was to investigate effects of increased testosterone content in egg yolk on early behaviour of 1- and 2-day-old Japanese quail. Three different doses of testosterone (0.25; 2.5 and 25 ng), not exceeding a physiological range, were examined in three separate experiments. Testosterone propionate dissolved in 20 μl olive oil was injected into the yolk before the onset of incubation. Behaviour of newly hatched chicks was recorded in response to both a novel environment in the open-field test and manual restraining in the test of tonic immobility (TI). Behavioural consequences of embryonic exposure to elevated testosterone were observed in the open-field test in all three experiments which indicated inhibition of behavioural responses in hatchlings. Birds treated with testosterone in ovo displayed longer latency to leave the start square, decreased locomotor activity, enhanced defecation and lower number of distress calls as compared to control birds. In TI test, the influence of treatment was manifested at the highest concentration only. Hatchlings from testosterone treated eggs expressed longer duration of TI and required less attempts to induce TI in comparison with the control group. Our results demonstrated increased fearfulness of Japanese quail chicks hatched from eggs with experimentally elevated testosterone content. The effect is specific for a short period after hatching since previous studies reported stimulatory effect of yolk testosterone on behaviour of Japanese quail later in ontogeny.
Effect of a Short-Term and Long-Term Melatonin Administration on Mammary Carcinogenesis in Female Sprague-Dawley Rats Influenced by Repeated Psychoemotional Stress
Authors: Kassayová M. , Adámeková E. , Bojková B. , Kubatka P. , Ahlers I. , Ahlersová E.
Published: November 2007

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of melatonin (MEL) on N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU)-induced mammary carcinogenesis in female Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to repeated psychoemotional stress - immobilization in boxes. NMU was applied intraperitoneally in two doses each of 50 mg/kg b.w. between 40 - 50 postnatal days. Melatonin was administered in drinking water at a concentration of 4 μg/ml daily from 15:00 h to 8:00 h. The application was initiated 5 days prior to the fi rst NMU dose and lasted 15 days, i.e. during the promotion phase of tumour development, or long-term until the end of the experiment (week 20). Immobilization (2 h per day) began on the third day after the second carcinogen application and lasted for 7 consecutive days. Short-term MEL administration to immobilized animals increased incidence by 22%, decreased tumour frequency per animal by 26% and reduced tumour volume gain (by 21%) when compared to the immobilized group without MEL application. Decreased frequency per animal by 28% and more than a 40% decrease in tumour volume gain and cumulative volume were the most pronounced changes in the animals drinking MEL until the end of the experiment. Long-term MEL administration reduced the number and size of mammary tumours more markedly than its short-term administration. Melatonin decreased certain attributes of mammary carcinogenesis in female rats influenced by psychoemotional stress.
Serum Total and Lipid-Bound Sialic Acid Concentrations in Sheep with Natural Babesiosis
Authors: Deger Y. , Mert H. , Dede S. , Yur F. , Mert N.
Published: November 2007

The aim of this study was to determine the serum concentrations of total and lipid-bound sialic acid in sheep naturally infected with Babesia ovis before and after treatment. Thirty diseased sheep and ten control animals were used. Babesia infection was confirmed with Giemsa's staining of blood smears. Compared to the control animals (1.351 ± 0.100 mmol l-1; 0.385 ± 0.001 mmol l-1), a marked increase of serum total and lipid bound sialic acid concentrations (1.929 ± 0.101 mmol l-1; 0.479 ± 0.004 mmol l-1, respectively) was obtained in infected sheep (p < 0.05). One week after treatment, serum total and lipid bound sialic acid concentrations significantly decreased (1.554 ± 0.005 mmol l-1; 0.411 ± 0.02 mmol l-1, respectively) (p < 0.05). Despite this decline, total and lipid bound sialic acid concentrations of treated animals were still signifi cantly increased in sera compared to the control animals (p < 0.05). When the infected animals were treated with an antiparasitic drug (diminazene aceturate), the serum total and lipid bound sialic acid levels had a tendency to decrease to the normal ranges. It can be concluded that Babesia ovis infection induced marked and persistent elevations of serum total and lipid-bound sialic acid concentrations, suggesting that these indicators would indirectly promote the invasion and presence of the parasite in the host.
Effects of Oxidized Glutathione, Bovine Serum Albumin, Cysteine and Lycopene on the Quality of Frozen-Thawed Ram Semen
Authors: Uysal O. , Bucak M. N.
Published: November 2007

Free radicals are known to be involved in lipid peroxidation as well as DNA and sperm membrane damages that may lead to decreased sperm motility or cell death. The balance between free radical production and their detoxification may be an important factor in sperm survival and function before, during and after cryopreservation. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the addition of the antioxidants of oxidized glutathione (GSSG), bovine serum albumin (BSA), cysteine and lycopene to freezing media on the post-thawing sperm characteristics, including motility, morphology, acrosome integrity, viability and membrane integrity. A total number of 42 ejaculates were collected using the artifi cial vagina from 4 Akkaraman rams and 10 replicates of the ejaculates were diluted with a Tris-based extender containing additives and no additives as control. GSSG (5 mM), BSA (20 mg/ml), cysteine (10 mM) and lycopene (800 μg) showed more positive effects than other concentrations of the supplements and controls in protecting sperm characteristics after the freezing-thawing process (P < 0.001). Many aspects of sperm protection, e.g. sperm motility, viability and membrane stabilisation of the sperm cells during relative cryopreservation, are the key factors in determining the preservation of sperm function. The results of this study provide a new approach to the cryopreservation of sperm from rams and related breeds, and thereby contribute to the improvement of these breeds for the world sheep industry.
Effects of 2-phenoxyethanol Anaesthesia on Haematological Profile on Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Velíšek J. , Svobodová Z. , Piačková V.
Published: November 2007

The aim of this study was to assess changes in haematological profile of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) after the exposure to anaesthetic 2-phenoxyethanol. The haematological profile was assessed before, immediately after 10 min of anaesthesia and 24 h after the anaesthesia with recommended concentration of 0.30 ml l-1 2-phenoxyethanol. The 10-min exposure to 2-phenoxyethanol of common carp caused the significant increase (p < 0.01) in the haematocrit value and relative and actual count of monocytes immediately after the anaesthesia. These values returned back to normal within 24 hours. In rainbow trout, 2-phenoxyethanol anaesthesia had no effect on the haematological profile. Results of the examinations suggest that the use of 2-phenoxyethanol at the concentration of 0.30 ml l-1 does not cause irreversible damage of the blood in common carp and rainbow trout.
Effects of Levamisole on Phagocytic Activity of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss W.)
Authors: Ispir U. , Yonar M. E.
Published: November 2007

In this study, activation of phagocytic cells was examined in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss W.) exposed to 1, 5 and 10 μg ml-1 concentrations of levamisole solution. For this purpose, blood samples were taken from fish on days 1, 7 and 14 of exposure. Potential killing activity was determined by measuring oxidative radical production and phagocytic activity of neutrophils and superoxide anion production of phagocytic cells against Y. ruckeri. The activity of phagocytic cells in fish exposed to each of three concentrations was found higher than that in controls and the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Although no activation in oxidative radical production, phagocytes and bactericidal killing activity in fish exposed to 5 and 10 μg ml-1 concentration of levamisole solution was determined on day 7, it was observed that all indicators increased on day 14 of exposure. The present results suggest that the application of levamisole in fish farms could increase non-specific immunity and resistance to infection of fish and offer economics benefits.
Maternal Febrile Morbidity After Cesarean Section
Authors: Guldholt Inger , Espersen Thorkild
Published: November 2007

The frequency of puerperal febrile complications is considerably higher following cesarean section than after vaginal delivery. In a retrospective investigation of 234 planned operations and 506 emergency operations, a significantly different frequency of febrile morbidity (FM) was found following the two types of operation (7.7% vs. 20.9%). The development of FM following emergency operation was investigated in relation to factors such as age, parity, repeat cesarean section, surgeon's experience, peroperative bleeding, rupture of membranes, frequency of vaginal exploration, gestational weeks, pre‐ and postoperative anemia. We found some predisposing factors to FM and of these five, each was significant, but a multiple regression analysis showed that only rupture of the membranes, and pre‐ and postoperative anemia have an independent significant explanatory value (p>0.01).
Warm Tub Bath During Labor
Authors: Gradert Y. , Hertel J. , Lenstrup C. , Bach F. W. , Christensen N. J. , Rosenö H. , Lenstrup C.
Published: November 2007

In this study 13 women bathed in a warm tub bath during the first stage labor after a strictly normal pregnancy. The control group consisted of 9 women who did not want warm tub bath. Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes were recorded and plasma adrenalin, noradrenalin were measured in umbilical arterial blood at birth, together with pH, pCO2, and base excess and beta‐endorphin‐like immunoreactivity in umbilical venous blood. No differences were found between the groups. No beneficial effect was found on infant condition of a warm tub bath during labor.
Umbilical Flow in the Normal and Pre‐Eclamptic Placenta
Authors: Abitbol M. Maurice , Lagamma Edmund F. , Demeter Emerick , Cipollina Carmela M.
Published: November 2007

In order to develop a simple in vitro method for assessing adequacy of placental perfusion, umbilical flow was measured in placentae from 10 normal control women and from 10 women with pre–eclampsia, by infusing through the umbilical arteries a heparinized 0.9% saline solution. The average induced umbilical flow in placentae from uneventful pregnancies was 276 ±16 SE ml/min compared with 163±12 ml/min (p>0.001) in the pre‐eclamptic group. In angiographic studies, 79±2 SE % of the cotyledons from the normal series, and only 56±3 % (p>0.001) from the pre‐eclamptic series were functional. Additionally, gross and histological examination revealed three distinct types of cotyledon. Placental areas that blanched following saline infusion showed no blood in the collapsed villi or in the intervillous space; areas distinguished by a ruddy appearance following perfusion showed blood trapped in the villi and in the intervillous space; in a third area, the findings were mixed. When compared with placental zones identified by perfusion with 5% Hypaque solution, these three anatomical regions corresponded to normal, reduced, or absent flow (blanched, intermediate, or ruddy regions, respectively). We conclude that under the conditions of this in vitro study, pre–eclamptic placentae had a greater proportion of umbilical perfusion deficits than had normal placentae.
Sinusoidal‐Like Fetal Heart–Ate Pattern
Authors: Giacomello Francesco , Ticconi Carlo , Baschieri Luciano
Published: November 2007

Cases of benign sinusoidal‐like fetal heart‐rate pattern, associated with rhythmic movements of the fetal mouth, are reported as probably physiological. The importance of fetal behavior observation during prepartum. fetal heart‐rate monitoring is stressed as a quick way to improve diagnostic accuracy in similar cases.
Prolapse of an Ovarian Tumor During Labor
Authors: Ulstein Magnar , Rana Geetha , Yangzom Kundu , Gurung Reeta
Published: November 2007

A case of prolapsed tumor after home delivery is reported. At first a puerperal inversion of the uterus was suspected. At operation a dermoid ovarian tumor was found to he prolapsed through the vaginal fornix.
Fistula Between the Urinary Bladder and An Ovarian Dermoid Tumor
Authors: Ulstein Magnar , Baydia Jagdish Lal , Pradhan Uma
Published: November 2007

A 30 year old woman presented with symptoms of bladder stone. At operation, in addition to a big bladder stone, a fistula from the bladder to an ovarian dermoid tumor, was found. The cause of the fistula formation remains obscure.
Fetal Heart Block, Anti–Ssa and Anti–Ssb Antibodies
Authors: Steier Johan Arnt , Akslen Lars A. , Flesland öystein , Askvik Kjell
Published: November 2007

A case of complete fetal heart block associated with intra‐uterine growth retardation, SSA‐and SSB‐antibodies is presented. The fetus died in utero. Autopsy revealed damage to the fetal cardiac conducting system together with severe placental fibrosis and recent infarctions. These findings and a slightly prolonged activated partial thromboplast in time indicated also the presence of the lupus anticoagulant.
Acute Oligo‐Anuria During Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Authors: Demey Hendrik E. , Daelemans Ronny , Galdermans Danielle , Verpooten Gert A. , de Broe Marc E. , Bossaert Leo L.
Published: November 2007

Severe ovarian hyperstimulation developed in a young woman during ovulation induction with human menopausal and chorionic gonadotropins. This was complicated by acute functional renal insufficiency with vascular overfilling and incipient pulmonary edema, possibly caused by indo‐methacine and fluid treatment. The pathogenetic mechanisms involved are discussed.
Pregnancy After Translaparoscopic Embryo Intrafallopian Transfer (Eift)
Authors: Henriksen T. , Aåbyholm T. , Tanbo T. , Magnus ö
Published: November 2007

Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) has in many clinics become the preferred treatment for infertility in selected couples (1–4). The GIFT procedure presupposes optimal conditions for fertilization and early embryo growth. However, whether fertilization has occurred cannot be established unless pregnancy ensues. This problem arises especially in those cases where a low fertilization rate is to be expected as in couples with male factor. An alternative to GIFT would then be to undertake in vitro fertilization followed by embryo intrafallopian transfer (EIFT). We report here a pregnancy following transfer of 2–6‐stage embryos to the Fallopian tubes.
The Implications of Hypozincemia in Pregnancy
Authors: Adeniyi Francis A. A.
Published: November 2007

Leukocyte zinc levels were significantly higher in normal pregnant women than in normal controls (p <0.001). There were inverse correlations between plasma zinc and leukocyte zinc (r= ‐0.76, p<0.001) and between plasma zinc and placental zinc (r = ‐ 0.88, p < 0.0001) in normal pregnancies. When compared with infants borne by some pre‐eclamp‐tic subjects, there were significant increases in cord plasma zinc of infants borne by normal pregnant subjects (p < 0.001). Plasma zinc concentrations were lower in normal pregnant subjects and in pre‐eclamptics who gave birth to infants with normal birthweight than in pre‐eclamptics who delivered infants with lower birthweight (p< 0.005). When compared with normal pregnant women and pre‐eclamptics who gave birth to infants with normal birthweight, total plasma estrogens were decreased in pre‐eclamptics who delivered infants with lower birthweights (p <0.001). The data from this study suggest that in human pregnancy, zinc and estrogens compete for common binding sites on the plasma proteins and zinc plays an important role in the course and eventual outcome of human pregnancy.
Combined Intracervical PGE2 and Intra‐Amniotic PGF2α for Induction of 2nd Trimester Abortion
Authors: Allen Jim , Maigaard Svend , Forman Axel , Ulmsten Ulf , Hansen K. P. Brogaard
Published: November 2007

Fourteen consecutive patients (mean gestational age 18.1 weeks, range 15‐23 weeks) referred for therapeutic termination of pregnancy were induced into abortion by intra‐amniotic PGF2α 40 mg followed by oxytocin stimulation. 14 other patients (mean gestational age 17.9 weeks, range 15‐23 weeks) were pretreated with intracervical PGE2 1.0 mg in gel for 4 h prior to induction of abortion with intra‐amniotic PGF2α 40 mg without further stimulation. The induction‐abortion interval for patients treated with intra‐amniotic PGF2α and oxytocin, was 19.1 ± 2.94 h (±SE, n=14) with a success rate of 80% after 24 h. After pretreatment with intracervical PGE2α 1.0 mg in viscous gel, intra‐amniotic PGF2α 40 mg induced abortion after 11.2 ± 1.12 h (± SE, n = 14) with a 100% success rate after 24 h. No systemic side effects of the PGE2 pretreatment were noted. No cervical laceration was observed. The results need further confirmation, but still suggest cervical priming with intracervical PGE2 1.0 mg in gel and subsequent induction of abortion by intra‐amniotic PGF2α 40 mg as an attractive principle for 2nd trimester abortion.
Prognostic parameters in predicting pregnancy: A twenty‐year follow‐up study comprising semen analysis in 765 men of infertile couples evaluated by the Cox regression model
Authors: Bostofte Erik
Published: November 2007

The Cox proportional hazard regression model was employed on 765 infertile men whose semen had been analysed in 1950 and 1951 and who replied to a questionnaire 20 years later. Of nine clinical and laboratory variables evaluated, four possessed significant and independent prognostic information about the time required to conceive, when covariation between the variables was considered. They were: age of the man at semen analysis, percentage normal spermatozoa, percentage mobile spermatozoa, and the degree of motility. The four variables were combined to form a prognostic index, which permits prediction of individual pregnancy probability. The five variables which possessed no significant prognostic information were time from ejaculation to semen analysis, period of abstinence, existence of previous pregnancy, volume and sperm count. There was a satisfactory agreement between predicted and observed pregnancies in the present series. Thus, the index may prove clinically useful. However, its value must be established in other independent series.