bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Surrogate Modeling Approach to the Design of an On-Grid Hybrid Wind/Fossil Power System With Storage
Authors: Ender Tommer R. , Murphy Jonathan , Zentner Jack M.
Published: October 2010

In the early stages of hybrid power system design, it is beneficial to have means of quickly estimating the performance of candidate systems in order to make trades between the components of the system, to incorporate changing requirements, or to deal with uncertainty in assumptions. If the candidate systems incorporate energy storage, the behavior of the system is complicated by the nature of load/renewable/storage interactions, which motivates the use of time-series simulations to accurately evaluate the performance of a candidate system. However, the execution time of a simulation does not lend itself well to real-time engineering design studies. An approach is demonstrated which uses Neural Network surrogate models created to represent a more complex simulation code to enable rapid trades and sensitivities, instant performance results and visualizations, and rapid reoptimization for the design of an on-grid hybrid wind/fossil power system with storage. These surrogate models enabled the creation of a tool that presents a decision maker with the ability to generate endless hybrid mix scenarios and determine which various renewable and non-renewable energy systems meet annual energy load requirements, acquisition and operation costs, and individual solution attributes.
PV-Electrolyzer Plant: Models and Optimization Procedure
Authors: Artuso Paola , Zuccari Fabrizio , Dell’Era Alessandro , Orecchini Fabio
Published: October 2010

The work focused on the analysis of the connection between a photovoltaic (PV) plant and an electrolyzer for hydrogen production. On the basis of PV plant and electrolyzer experimental data, the effectiveness of the models adopted in the simulation program has been verified in order to choose the best model and, eventually, modify some parameters. By running the simulations, the procedure to optimize the PV plant and the electrolyzer combination has been established. In fact, the simulation results might be considered to size an electrolyzer as small as possible, which is able to exploit up to the maximum power actually produced by the PV plant during a working year. This criterion allows minimizing the overall plant costs. Furthermore, the possibility of deleting the Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) and the DC/DC converter has been analyzed. On the basis of the obtained results, this opportunity is preferable to avoid the energy losses in the power control system; and it is convenient even from an economic point of view, considering that the electronic devices costs are comparable with the PV plant ones.
17 Benefits From Electricity Storage for Electric Utility-Related Applications
Authors: Eyer James M.
Published: October 2010

This paper provides an overview of opportunities for electric energy storage in the emerging electricity marketplace. Primary elements of the paper include: 1) a brief summary of storage technology and market drivers, 2) an overview of leading energy storage technologies, 3) a characterization of the need for value propositions that include more than one benefit, so total benefits exceed cost, and 4) specific benefits that could comprise attractive storage value propositions.
Pressurised Oxy-Coal Combustion Rankine-Cycle for Future Zero Emission Power Plants: Technological Issues
Authors: Gazzino Marco , Riccio Giovanni , Rossi Nicola , Benelli Giancarlo
Published: October 2010

Among possible options to capture carbon dioxide, pressurised oxy-fuel combustion is a promising one. Accordingly, Enel teamed with Itea and Enea to develop a pressurised oxy-combustion technology. Currently, extensive tests have been carried out at 4 bar on a 5 MWt facility based in Gioia del Colle (Southern Italy). By starting from the know-how gained on that scale, Enel planned to build by 2010 an experimental 48 MWt demo-plant, based on the same pressurised combustion process introduced above. This will be the necessary intermediate step for the further scale-up towards a zero emission plant of industrial scale. This paper is the prosecution of a previous publication presenting the process design and energy analysis of a power cycle integrating the developed pressurised oxy-coal combustion technology with a Rankine cycle including carbon capture. After having briefly presented the pressurised oxycombustion project carried out at Enel, the paper focuses on technology issues related to the proposed cycle and the related process integration, with respect to main components.
Informing Climate Change Policy Through Economics and Engineering Perspectives on Energy Efficiency
Authors: Sreedharan Priya , Sanstad Alan H. , Bryson Joe
Published: October 2010

Energy “sustainability” and energy supply have again emerged as central public policy issues and are at the intersection of the economic, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation and the world. The goal of significantly reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with energy production and consumption, while maintaining affordable and reliable energy supplies, is one of the most important issues. Among the strategies for achieving this goal, increasing the efficiency of energy consumption in buildings is being emphasized to a degree not seen since the 1970s. “End-use” efficiency is the core of the State of California’s landmark effort to reduce its GHG emissions, of other state and local climate-change initiatives, and is emphasized in emerging federal GHG abatement legislation. Both economic and engineering methods are used to analyze energy efficiency, but the two paradigms provide different perspectives on the market and technological factors that affect the diffusion of energy efficiency. These disparate perspectives influence what is considered the appropriate role and design of public policy for leveraging not just efficient end-use technology, but other sustainable energy technologies. We review the two approaches and their current roles in the GHG policy process by describing, for illustrative purposes, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s assessment of energy efficiency in the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 Discussion Draft. We highlight opportunities and needs for improved coordination between the engineering, economic and policy communities. Our view is that a better understanding of disciplinary differences and complementarities in perspectives and analytical methods between these communities will benefit the climate change policy process.
HAWT Rotor Design and Performance Analysis
Authors: Kulunk Emrah , Yilmaz Nadir
Published: October 2010

In this paper, a design method based on blade element momentum (BEM) theory is explained for horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) blades. The method is used to optimize the chord and twist distributions of the blades. Applying this method a 100kW HAWT rotor is designed. Also a computer program is written to estimate the aerodynamic performance of the existing HAWT blades and used for the performance analysis of the designed 100kW HAWT rotor.
Development of an Innovative Code for the Design of Different Parabolic Trough Solar Fields
Authors: Macchi Ennio , Manzolini Giampaolo , Silva Paolo
Published: October 2010

The role of renewable energies and in particular solar energy could be fundamental in future scenarios of worldwide increase of energy demand: thermodynamic solar energy can play an important role in country with high solar radiation. This paper discusses the development and testing of an innovative code for the prediction of thermodynamic performances at nominal conditions and the estimation of costs of the whole plant, for different parabolic trough solar fields. The code allows a preliminary design of the solar field lay-out, the sizing of the main components of the plant and the optimization of the steam cycle. The code, named PATTO (PArabolic Trough Thermodynamic Optimization), allows to separately calculate the thermal efficiency of (i) parabolic trough systems in commerce as well as (ii) combination of components of various commercial systems, in order to exploit different technology solutions: combination of mirrors, receivers and supports. Using the selected parabolic troughs, the plant configuration is then completed by connecting pipes, heat exchangers, the steam cycle, and storage tanks. The code is also flexible in terms of working fluid, temperature and pressure range. Regarding the power block, a conventional steam cycle with super-heater and re-heater sections and up to seven regenerative bleedings is adopted. It is possible to use also simpler configuration as without re-heater or with less regenerative bleedings. Moreover, thanks to simple or sophisticated economic correlations depending on available data, the code calculates the overall investment cost for the considered solar field and the power block. The code performs steady state analysis at nominal conditions, while future developments are planned regarding part load analysis and transient simulations. The model is tested towards real applications and reference values found in literature; in particular, focusing on SEGS VI plant in the USA. Detailed results showing code potentiality, are presented in terms of solar field and power block energy balances, plant auxiliaries, piping and economic analysis.
Impact of Optimal Discharge Air Temperature and Minimum Airflow
Authors: Cho Young-Hum , Jung Young-hoon , Liu Mingsheng
Published: October 2010

Airflow and discharge air temperature can be varied to maintain room temperature setpoint according to heating load. Increasing discharge air temperature and the decreasing airflow can save energy, but it causes reduced air circulation as supply air temperature rises above the space temperature. On the other hand, increasing airflow can improve air circulation; however, it may waste energy. The objective of this study is to identify the correlation between the minimum airflow and discharge air temperature that will maintain room thermal comfort. Optimal room airflow and discharge air temperature were analyzed, and the impact of room airflow and discharge air temperature on thermal stratification was evaluated and potential energy savings was estimated. Its performance was conducted through field experiment.
Analysis of Impact of Daylight Time Savings on Energy Use of Buildings in Kuwait
Authors: Krarti Moncef , Hajiah Ali
Published: October 2010

In this paper, a detailed simulation-based analysis is conducted to assess the impact of adopting Daylight-Saving Time (DST) on the electrical energy use and peak demand in Kuwait. The analysis focused on the impact of DST in the building sector since it represents 90% of electrical energy usage of Kuwait. The simulation results indicate that the adoption of DST has mixed impacts for Kuwait. While the commercial and the governmental sectors may benefit from the DST, the private residences and apartment buildings can see both their annual energy use and peak demand increase slightly by adopting DST. The overall impact of the DST implementation is rather minimal with a slight increase energy use of about 0.07% and a slight reduction in peak demand of 0.14% or about 12 MW based on 2005 electrical peak demand for Kuwait.
Nonsynaptic Communication Through ATP Release from Volume-Activated Anion Channels in Axons
Authors: Fields R. Douglas , Ni Yingchun
Published: October 2010

Axonal swelling allows neurons to communicate with glia by ATP released from volume-activated anion channels.
Closing the Vector Circle
Authors: Ash Caroline
Published: October 2010

The genome of a third mosquito species reveals distinctions related to vector capacities and habitat preferences.
Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry and Sensitive Bioassay Methods for Quantification of Posaconazole Plasma Concentrations after Oral Dosing
Authors: Rochat Bertrand , Pascual Andres , Pesse Benoît , Lamoth Frédéric , Sanglard Dominique , Decosterd Laurent A. , Bille Jacques , Marchetti Oscar
Published: October 2010

Posaconazole (POS) is a new antifungal agent for prevention and therapy of mycoses in immunocompromised patients. Variable POS pharmacokinetics after oral dosing may influence efficacy: a trough threshold of 0.5 μg/ml has been recently proposed. Measurement of POS plasma concentrations by complex chromatographic techniques may thus contribute to optimize prevention and management of life-threatening infections. No microbiological analytical method is available. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a new simplified ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method and a sensitive bioassay for quantification of POS over the clinical plasma concentration range. The UPLC-MS/MS equipment consisted of a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, an electrospray ionization (ESI) source, and a C
18
analytical column. The
Candida albicans
POS-hypersusceptible mutant (MIC of 0.002 μg/ml) Δ
cdr1
Δ
cdr2
Δ
flu
Δ
mdr1
Δ
can
constructed by targeted deletion of multidrug efflux transporters and calcineurin genes was used for the bioassay. POS was extracted from plasma by protein precipitation with acetonitrile-methanol (75%/25%, vol/vol). Reproducible standard curves were obtained over the range 0.014 to 12 (UPLC-MS/MS) and 0.028 to 12 μg/ml (bioassay). Intra- and interrun accuracy levels were 106% ± 2% and 103% ± 4% for UPLC-MS/MS and 102% ± 8% and 104% ± 1% for bioassay, respectively. The intra- and interrun coefficients of variation were 7% ± 4% and 7% ± 3% for UPLC-MS/MS and 5% ± 3% and 4% ± 2% for bioassay, respectively. An excellent correlation between POS plasma concentrations measured by UPLC-MS/MS and bioassay was found (concordance, 0.96). In 26 hemato-oncological patients receiving oral POS, 27/69 (39%) trough plasma concentrations were lower than 0.5 μg/ml. The UPLC-MS/MS method and sensitive bioassay offer alternative tools for accurate and precise quantification of the plasma concentrations in patients receiving oral posaconazole.
Novel Daptomycin Combinations against Daptomycin-Nonsusceptible Methicillin-Resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
in an
In Vitro
Model of Simulated Endocardial Vegetations
Authors: Steed Molly E. , Vidaillac Celine , Rybak Michael J.
Published: October 2010

Reduced susceptibility to daptomycin has been reported in patients with infections due to methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA). Although infections with daptomycin-nonsusceptible (DNS) MRSA are infrequent, optimal therapy of these strains has not been determined. We investigated the killing effects of novel antibiotic combinations with daptomycin (DAP) against two clinical DNS MRSA isolates (SA-684 and R6003) in a 72-h
in vitro
pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model with simulated endocardial vegetations (SEV). Simulated regimens included DAP at 6 mg/kg every 24 h (q24h) alone or in combination with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) at 160/800 mg q12h, linezolid (LIN) at 600 mg q12h, cefepime (CEF) at 2 g q12h, and nafcillin (NAF) at 4 g q4h. Bactericidal activity was defined as a ≥3-log
10
CFU/g kill. Differences in CFU/g were evaluated between 4 and 72 h by analysis of variance with the Bonferroni post hoc test. DAP MICs were 4 and 2 mg/liter for SA-684 and R6003, respectively. In the PK/PD model, DAP alone was slowly bactericidal, achieving a 3-log
10
kill at 24 and 50 h for SA-684 and R6003, respectively. Against SA-684, DAP plus TMP/SMX, CEF, LIN, or NAF was bactericidal at 4, 4, 8, and 8 h, respectively, and maintained this activity for the 72-h study duration. DAP plus TMP/SMX or CEF exhibited superior killing than DAP alone against SA-684 between 4 and 72 h, and overall this was significant (
P
< 0.05). Against R6003, DAP plus TMP/SMX was bactericidal (8 h) and superior to DAP alone between 8 and 72 h (
P
< 0.001). The unique combination of DAP plus TMP/SMX was the most effective and rapidly bactericidal regimen against the two isolates tested and may provide a clinical option to treat DNS
S. aureus
infections.
Testing Nucleoside Analogues as Inhibitors of
Bacillus anthracis
Spore Germination
In Vitro
and in Macrophage Cell Culture
Authors: Alvarez Zadkiel , Lee Kyungae , Abel-Santos Ernesto
Published: October 2010

Bacillus anthracis
, the etiological agent of anthrax, has a dormant stage in its life cycle known as the endospore. When conditions become favorable, spores germinate and transform into vegetative bacteria. In inhalational anthrax, the most fatal manifestation of the disease, spores enter the organism through the respiratory tract and germinate in phagosomes of alveolar macrophages. Germinated cells can then produce toxins and establish infection. Thus, germination is a crucial step for the initiation of pathogenesis.
B. anthracis
spore germination is activated by a wide variety of amino acids and purine nucleosides. Inosine and
l
-alanine are the two most potent nutrient germinants
in vitro
. Recent studies have shown that germination can be hindered by isomers or structural analogues of germinants. 6-Thioguanosine (6-TG), a guanosine analogue, is able to inhibit germination and prevent
B. anthracis
toxin-mediated necrosis in murine macrophages. In this study, we screened 46 different nucleoside analogues as activators or inhibitors of
B. anthracis
spore germination
in vitro
. These compounds were also tested for their ability to protect the macrophage cell line J774a.1 from
B. anthracis
cytotoxicity. Structure-activity relationship analysis of activators and inhibitors clarified the binding mechanisms of nucleosides to
B. anthracis
spores. In contrast, no structure-activity relationships were apparent for compounds that protected macrophages from
B. anthracis
-mediated killing. However, multiple inhibitors additively protected macrophages from
B. anthracis
.
Efficacy of a Doxycycline Treatment Regimen Initiated during Three Different Phases of Experimental Ehrlichiosis
Authors: McClure Jennifer C. , Crothers Michelle L. , Schaefer John J. , Stanley Patrick D. , Needham Glen R. , Ewing S. A. , Stich Roger W.
Published: October 2010

Doxycycline is the treatment of choice for canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), a well-characterized disease and valuable model for tick-borne zoonoses. Conflicting reports of clearance ofEhrlichia canisafter treatment with doxycycline suggested that the disease phase during which treatment is initiated influences outcomes of these treatments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a 28-day doxycycline regimen for clearance of experimentalE. canisinfections from dogs treated during three phases of the disease. Ten dogs were inoculated with blood fromE. caniscarriers and treated with doxycycline during acute, subclinical, or chronic phases of CME. Daily rectal temperatures and semiweekly blood samples were monitored from each dog, andRhipicephalus sanguineusticks were acquisition fed on each dog for xenodiagnosis. Blood collected from dogs treated during acute or subclinical CME became PCR negative forE. canisas clinical parameters improved, but blood samples collected from dogs treated during chronic CME remained intermittently PCR positive.R. sanguineusticks fed on dogs after doxycycline treatments became PCR positive forE. canis, regardless of when treatment was initiated. However, fewer ticks became PCR positive after feeding on two persistently infected dogs treated with doxycycline followed by rifampin, suggesting that antibiotic therapy can reduce tick acquisition ofE. canis.
CD46 Engagement on Human CD4+T Cells Produces T Regulatory Type 1-Like Regulation of Antimycobacterial T Cell Responses
Authors: Truscott Steven M. , Abate Getahun , Price Jeffrey D. , Kemper Claudia , Atkinson John P. , Hoft Daniel F.
Published: October 2010

Understanding the regulation of human immune responses is critical for vaccine development and treating infectious diseases. We have previously shown that simultaneous engagement of the T cell receptor (TCR) and complement regulator CD46 on human CD4+T cells in the presence of interleukin-2 (IL-2) induces potent secretion of the immunomodulatory cytokine IL-10. These T cells mediate IL-10-dependent suppression of bystander CD4+T cells activatedin vitrowith anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 costimulation, reflecting a T regulatory type 1 (Tr1)-like phenotype. However, CD46-mediated negative regulation of pathogen-specific T cells has not been described. Therefore, we studied the ability of CD46-activated human CD4+T cells to suppress T cell responses toMycobacterium bovisBCG, the live vaccine that provides infants protection against the major human pathogenMycobacterium tuberculosis. Our results demonstrate that soluble factors secreted by CD46-activated human CD4+T cells suppress mycobacterium-specific CD4+, CD8+, and γ9δ2TCR+T cells. Dendritic cell functions were not downregulated in our experiments, indicating that CD46-triggered factors directly suppress pathogen-specific T cells. Interestingly, IL-10 appeared to play a less pronounced role in our system, especially in the suppression of γ9δ2TCR+T cells, suggesting the presence of additional undiscovered soluble immunoregulatory factors. Blocking endogenous CD46 signaling 3 days after mycobacterial infection enhanced BCG-specific T cell responses in a subset of volunteers. Taken together, these results indicate that CD46-dependent negative regulatory mechanisms can impair T cell responses vital for immune defense against mycobacteria. Therefore, modulating CD46-induced immune regulation could be integral to the development of improved tuberculosis therapeutics or vaccines.
Rare anatomical variations of persistent trigeminal artery in two patients with non-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Samaniego Edgar A , Dabus Guilherme , Andreone Vincenzo , Linfante Italo
Published: October 2010

Carotid–basilar anastomoses are remnants of the fetal circulation and although rare, they may become symptomatic and should be recognized during cerebral angiography. Two patients are described with non-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and persistent trigeminal arteries (PTA) found on cerebral angiography. In the first patient, the PTA ended in the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) and posterior inferior cerebellar artery. The second patient had a PTA terminating in the AICA and superior cerebellar artery. These rare anatomical PTA variants should be recognized on cerebral angiography.
Effects of variations in the environment, length of journey and type of trailer on the mortality and morbidity of pigs being transported to slaughter
Authors: Sutherland M. A. , McDonald A. , McGlone J. J.
Published: October 2010

The month, average air temperature, relative humidity, number of pigs of each sex per trailer load, journey time, type of trailer and bedding, and waiting time at the processing plant were recorded from 16,323 trailers transporting 2,730,754 pigs to a packing plant in the USA during a year, together with the numbers of pigs that were dead on arrival, injured or unable to walk. The percentage of pigs dead on arrival increased at temperatures above 20°C, and the percentage of pigs unable to walk increased at temperatures of 5°C or below. The journey time and waiting time at the processing plant influenced the percentages of dead and injured pigs and pigs unable to walk.
Procedures to eliminate H3N2 swine influenza virus from a pig herd
Authors: Torremorell M. , Juarez A. , Chavez E. , Yescas J. , Doporto J. M. , Gramer M.
Published: October 2010

A three‐site pig herd infected with a H3N2 swine influenza virus (SIV) underwent a herd SIV elimination programme using herd closure and partial depopulation. The herd consisted of sow, nursery and finishing units, 1 to 2 km apart. Disease was noted in the sow unit and then the nursery unit. The herd temporarily stopped introduction of replacement animals, and replacement gilt introductions in the breeding herd was changed from monthly to quarterly. Gilts from a serologically negative source were also introduced and monitored. Virus elimination from growing pigs was attempted by totally depopulating the nursery and finishing sites once there was evidence that shedding in site 1 had stopped. Sentinel gilts remained serologically negative by haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test (0 of 69 animals negative) for at least 20 months after the initial disease. After restoring the pig flow in site 2, pigs did not experience flu‐like clinical signs and HI serology results remained negative (0 of 30 animals tested) for the six months following repopulation of sites 2 and 3. In addition, nursery mortality was improved by 2·2 per cent, the growth rate was improved by 0·123 kg/day and feed efficiency was improved 0·26 points. Based on these results, SIV elimination was considered successful.
Changes in the relationships between dogs, owners and veterinarians in Norway and Iceland
Authors: Lund H. S. , Eggertsdóttir A. V. , Jørgensen H. , Eggertsson S. , Grøndahl A. M.
Published: October 2010

Norwegian and Icelandic dog owners were interviewed about aspects of their dog keeping and their attitudes to the veterinary profession. Dogs were found to play an important role in the lives of their owners, who had high expectations of their veterinarians, not only with respect to the treatment of their dogs but also with respect to themselves as clients. About one‐third of owners reported problems related to a lack of trust and poor communications in encounters with their veterinarians.
Surgical treatment of urethral dilatation in seven male cattle
Authors: Gasthuys F. , Martens A. , De Moor A.
Published: October 2010

The surgical treatment of urethral dilatation in the perineal region of seven young Belgian blue bulls is described. Urethrostomy under local anaesthesia in the standing animal resulted in a successful outcome in three of them. The possible aetiological factors and consequences of this syndrome are discussed.
Serological survey for orthopoxvirus infection of wild mammals in areas where a recombinant rabies virus is used to vaccinate foxes
Authors: Boulanger D. , Crouch A. , Brochier B. , Bennett M. , Clément J. , Gaskell R. M. , Baxby D. , Pastoret P.‐P.
Published: October 2010

Several fox vaccination campaigns against rabies have been undertaken in Belgium by using a vaccinia‐rabies recombinant virus distributed in baits in the field. However, foxes and other wild animals that may ingest the baits could be infected at the same time by another orthopoxvirus, such as cowpox virus, which circulates in wildlife. Recombination between the two viruses could therefore occur. A serological survey for antibodies to orthopoxvirus, and particularly to cowpox virus, was undertaken in foxes and in several other wild species. Antibodies were detected only in two rodent species, in 16 of 25 bank voles (64 per cent) and in two of 29 woodmice (7 per cent). The risk of virus recombination in wildlife can therefore be considered to be extremely low.
Bovine adenovirus type 10: properties of viruses isolated from cases of bovine haemorrhagic enterocolitis
Authors: Adair B. M. , McKillop E. R. , Smyth J. A. , Curran W. L. , McNulty M. S.
Published: October 2010

The isolation, serological classification and growth properties of adenoviruses isolated from fatal cases of haemorrhagic enterocolitis in calves are described. Four viruses, from different submissions, were isolated in cultures of calf testis cells and were identified as adenoviruses by electron microscopy. The four isolates were serologically identical and were classified as bovine adenovirus type 10 in cross‐neutralisation tests with other bovine, ovine and porcine adenovirus species. Their growth in the nucleus of infected cells was accompanied by the production of typical adenovirus‐associated inclusions. A serological survey to determine the incidence of infection with the virus in cattle in Northern Ireland demonstrated the presence of low levels of neutralising antibodies in 55 per cent of cattle over two years old, although only 8 per cent were positive at a 1/500 dilution of serum.
Effect of salinomycin in the control of Clostridium perfringens type C infection in suckling pigs
Authors: Kyriakis S. C. , Sarris K. , Kritas S. K. , Tsinas A. C. , Giannakopoulos C.
Published: October 2010

The ability of salinomycin to control Clostridium perfringens type C infection in sows and their offspring was examined under field conditions. Two groups of sows and their offspring were offered feed either medicated with 60 ppm salinomycin or free of antibiotics, and their performance was compared. The number of piglets with diarrhoea, the duration of the diarrhoea, and the mortality of the piglets during the lactation period were markedly lower in the group given salinomycin. In addition, laboratory examinations showed that the numbers of carrier piglets and sows were reduced after treatment with salinomycin. Finally, the sows treated with salinomycin lost less weight during the lactation period and weaned more and heavier piglets than the untreated sows. It was concluded that salinomycin incorporated in the diet can be used for controlling C perfringens type C infection in sows and their offspring.
Deposition in the distal parts of the bovine respiratory tract: assessment of equipment suitable for drug inhalation
Authors: Genicot B. , Votion D. , Munsters K. , Close R. , Lindsey J. K. , Lekeux P.
Published: October 2010

The efficiency of equipment suitable for the inhalation of drugs by calves was assessed in six animals which inhaled radioisotopically labelled particles while suffering from reversible diffuse bronchoconstriction induced experimentally with 5‐hydroxytryptamine and while they were breathing normally. Respiratory rates and data from pulmonary function tests and scintiscans were recorded during both investigations. After the first investigation, a mean (se) wash‐out period of 9.8 (3.2) days was allowed. Under diffuse bronchoconstriction, the respiratory rate, the oscillatory resistance and the compliance of the respiratory system reached 282.1 (22.0), 161.1 (10.8) and 68.8 (2.7) per cent of their respective baseline values. When the calves were breathing normally these parameters did not change over time. The ratios (Cp/Ct) of the counts of γ‐disintegrations in the peripheral part (Cp) of the lungs and in the total lung area (Ct) were not significantly different when comparing the results from the two investigations. The ratios of Cp/Ct in the left lungs did not differ significantly from those in the right lungs.
Castration of calves: a study of methods used by farmers in the United Kingdom
Authors: Kent J. E. , Thrusfleld M. V. , Robertson I. S. , Molony V.
Published: October 2010

A postal survey of farmers was conducted to determine the main methods used to castrate calves, and by whom and how they were applied. Among the 28 per cent of farmers who replied, those who did castrate calves used one or more of three methods: the Burdizzo was used by 43 per cent of farmers, surgery by 39 per cent, and rubber rings by 32 per cent, with 10 per cent using more than one method. Calves were castrated at all ages from less than one week to over six months, with one third of them being castrated at an age that legally requires the operation to be done under local anaesthesia by a veterinary surgeon. Rubber rings were never used by veterinary surgeons, but they carried out 43 per cent of surgical castrations, which was the method of choice in older calves. Local anaesthetic was used on 15 per cent of farms, mainly for surgical castrations. Sixty‐seven per cent of farmers using the Burdizzo applied it twice, with the majority correctly applying the second crush below the first, and 90 per cent used precautions to control infection after surgical castration.
The incidence of bovine spongiform encephalopathy in the progeny of affected sires and dams
Authors: Curnow R. N. , Hau C. M.
Published: October 2010

Case control study techniques were used to compare the incidence of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in the progeny of two affected sires and 110 affected dams with the incidence of BSE in the progeny of animals known to be unaffected at the last record. All the progeny were born before the ban on ruminant‐derived protein in feedstuffs issued in July 1988. The results provide little, if any, evidence of differences between the incidence in the progeny of the affected animals and the incidence in the progeny of the presumed unaffected animals. Data from five herds were used in a logistic regression analysis to study the effects of the disease status of the dam and the age of the dam at the birth of the calf on the incidence of BSE. The disease status of the dam did not significantly affect the disease status of its progeny, after allowance had been made for the effects of herd, year and the age at last record of the progeny. The difficulty of establishing maternal transmission if a high proportion of the dams are incubating the disease and transmission can occur early in the incubation period is discussed.
Bovine papillomavirus type 4 DNA isolated from a skin lesion in a steer
Authors: Bloch N. , Breen M. , Irvin Z. V. , Spradbrow P. B.
Published: October 2010

A lesion on the head of a steer, defined histologically as an epithelial papilloma, yielded DNA which did not hybridise with any of the bovine papillomavirus DNAS usually associated with the formation of skin lesions. DNA from the lesion did hybridise with DNA from bovine papillomavirus 4, even under stringent conditions, and contained a sequence that could be amplified by polymerase chain reaction with primers specific for that virus. Bovine papillomavirus 4 had previously been isolated only from lesions of the upper alimentary canal.
Decoquinate and the control of experimental ovine toxoplasmosis
Authors: Buxton D. , Brebner J. , Wright S. , Maley S. W. , Thomson K. M. , Millard K.
Published: October 2010

Decoquinate was tested for its ability to reduce the effect of experimentally induced toxoplasmosis in pregnant ewes. Sheep were given decoquinate in their feed daily at either 2 mg or 1 mg/kg bodyweight from 10 days before an oral challenge with Toxoplasma gondii oocysts at 90 days of gestation, until lambing. Feeding decoquinate at the higher rate caused a delay in the onset of the febrile response to infection, reduced the overall severity of the fever and delayed the production of antibodies to the parasite. This treatment also reduced the placental damage caused by the parasite, lengthened the mean gestation period and increased the number and weight of live lambs, in comparison with ewes not fed decoquinate but challenged with T gondii oocysts. The treatment with 1 mg of decoquinate had smaller effects.
Treatment of sarcoptic mite infestation and mite hypersensitivity in pigs with injectable doramectin
Authors: Cargill C. , Davies P. , Carmichael I. , Hooke F. , Moore M.
Published: October 2010

Thirty‐two pigs were infested experimentally withSarcoptes scabieivarsuisand allocated randomly to a medicated group (injected intramuscularly with 300 μg doramectin/kg) or an unmedicated group (injected intramuscularly with 1 ml saline/33 kg). They were observed daily for 15 minutes for signs of pruritus, and the ear lesions were assessed and skin scrapings examined for mites on days 7, 14, 21 and 28 after treatment. In the 16 pigs treated with doramectin the ear lesions resolved completely within 14 days, no mites were recorded on 15 of them on day 7 or on any of them on days 14, 21 and 28; pruritus was greatly reduced from day 7 onwards (range 0 to 0.62 rubbing episodes per pig per day) and papular skin lesions were absent from 15 of the pigs at slaughter on day 28. In comparison, the ear lesions in the 16 unmedicated pigs failed to resolve in 15 of them. Mites were present on 15 of them at different times during the experiment; the numbers of rubbing episodes ranged from 0.88 to 4.65 per pig per day and all the pigs had papular skin lesions at slaughter. In the unmedicated pigs, both the degree of pruritus and the presence and severity of papular skin lesions at slaughter were greater in those with zero or low mite counts than in those with high mite counts.
Hepatocellular tumours in roe deer in Britain
Authors: Munro R. , Youngson R. W.
Published: October 2010

Between January 1992 and March 1994 the geographical distribution and prevalence of hepatocellular tumours in roe deer in Britain was studied. The highest prevalence was found in north east England and in the east of Scotland. An as yet unidentified dietary factor is thought to have been involved in the development of these tumours. The histological features of 37 hepatocellular neoplasms are summarised.
Mortality in cattle up to two years old in Northern Ireland during 1992
Authors: Menzies F. D. , Bryson D. G. , McCallion T. , Matthews D. I.
Published: October 2010

A study of bovine mortality involving a stratified random sample of farms and veterinary practices was carried out in Northern Ireland during 1992. In the farm survey over 3500 deaths were reported from 1069 farms and 237 farms reported no deaths. The estimated total number of deaths of cattle up to two years old was 12,332, a figure which excludes an estimated 7921 stillbirths. The estimated annual mortality rates for six‐ to 24‐month‐old cattle, one‐ to five‐month‐old calves and neonatal calves were 0.79 per cent, 0.82 per cent and 1P02 per cent respectively. The stillbirth rate was 1.86 per cent. Respiratory syndromes were associated with 37 per cent of the deaths of six‐ to 24‐month‐old cattle and gastrointestinal syndromes were associated with 22 per cent; in one‐ to five‐month‐old calves these syndromes were associated with 37 and 33 per cent of the deaths, respectively. Stillbirths accounted for 62 per cent of all the deaths of calves under one month old, and the neonatal disease complex accounted for 39 per cent of the deaths of calves which were born alive but died within one month of birth.
Diagnosis and treatment of a parasitic dermatitis in a laboratory colony of African clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis)
Authors: Cunningham A. A. , Sainsbury A. W. , Cooper J. E.
Published: October 2010

A parasitic dermatitis, caused by a nematode infestation of the epidermis, was diagnosed in 11 captive African clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis) by a histological examination of the skin. Eight of the animals died or were euthanased before effective treatment with levamisole was administered, and one frog died after being treated. Secondary infection with opportunistic pathogens may have been involved in the progression of the disease.
Sufentanil and nitrous oxide anaesthesia for the recording of transcranial magnetic motor evoked potentials in dogs
Authors: Van Ham L. M. L. , Nijs J. , Mattheeuws D. R. G. , Vanderstraeten G. G. W.
Published: October 2010

Transcranial magnetic motor evoked potentials were recorded from the extensor carpi radialis muscle of the forelimbs and from the cranial tibial muscle of the hindlimbs of anaesthetised dogs. The dogs were premedicated with droperidol and fentanyl and a light plane of anaesthesia was induced and maintained with sufentanil and nitrous oxide. The potentials recorded under sufentanil and nitrous oxide anaesthesia were suppressed in comparison with baseline recordings under droperidol and fentanyl sedation: their latencies were significantly increased and their amplitudes significantly decreased (P<0.05). However, the potentials could be recorded reliably in all the dogs and with very good reproducibility. This narcotic anaesthesia also allowed sensory evoked potentials to be recorded reliably.
Effect of pre‐slaughter washing of lambs on the microbiological and visible contamination of the carcases
Authors: Biss M. E. , Hathaway S. C.
Published: October 2010

Studies in four slaughterhouses with contrasting dressing systems showed that microbiological contamination with total aerobic bacteria andEscherichia coliwas greater on carcases which had been washed before slaughter, irrespective of wool length, and was generally higher on carcases derived from woolly lambs than on those derived from shorn lambs. The effects of pre‐slaughter washing on the forequarters compared with the hindquarters were not consistent, and this was attributed to differences between the dressing systems applied in the slaughterhouses. Over all trials, the mean total aerobic count ranged from 3.45 to 5.36 log10/cm2, and the mean counts ofE coliranged from 0.39 to 2.11 log10/cm2. There was less visible contamination on the carcases of washed lambs than on those of unwashed lambs. The differences in contamination with wool were largely dependent on the level of contamination of individual carcases, whereas the differences in contamination with faecal material and dirt or sand were largely dependent on the prevalence of affected carcases. The use of pre‐slaughter washing to compensate in visual terms for poor pre‐slaughter presentation results in a detrimental effect on microbiological loads on ovine carcases.
Severe respiratory disease in dairy cows caused by infection with bovine respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Elvander M.
Published: October 2010

Outbreaks of severe respiratory disease caused by bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) were recorded in dairy herds throughout Sweden in 1988 and subsequently. The virus was demonstrated in nasopharyngeal swab material from animals in the acute stage of the disease by culture, the polymerase chain reaction (PcR) and by immunofluorescence. Serological data from the herds investigated showed that the cows had seroconverted to BRSV rather than to bovine coronavirus, bovine viral diarrhoea virus or parainfluenza‐3 virus. It was predominantly dairy herds in isolated areas that contracted a severe primary BRSV infection, often after the purchase of new animals. A nationwide survey for BRSV antibodies in bulk milk samples showed the highest prevalence, of 84 to 89 per cent, in the southernmost regions of Sweden and the lowest prevalence, of 41 to 51 per cent, in the north of the country. The prevalence of BRSV was highest in areas with the highest populations of cattle.
Identification of the virus of rabbit haemorrhagic disease in Tunisia
Authors: Bouslama A. , De Mia G. M. , Hammami S. , Aouina T. , Soussi H. , Frescura T.
Published: October 2010

During 1992 and 1993, outbreaks of an acute, highly fatal disease mainly affecting adult rabbits were observed in Tunisia. The clinical and pathological findings were consistent with rabbit haemorrhagic disease. A monoclonal antibody designated PG4G3 specific for surface determinants of the rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus was used to identify the aetiological agent by ELISA and by colloidal gold immunoelectron microscopy; a haemagglutination test and conventional immunoelectron microscopy were also used. The results confirmed the first recorded cases of the disease in Tunisia.
Recent bruising in cattle at abattoirs
Authors: McNally P. W. , Warriss P. D.
Published: October 2010

In two surveys of a total of over 16,000 cattle carcases, animals from live auctions had more bruising and more meat rejected for bruising than animals from dealers and farms. The proportion of carcases with stick‐markings was higher in market cattle (2.5 per cent) than in cattle from farms (0.9 per cent). The amount of bruising was much higher in animals which were stick‐marked (35 per cent) than in the whole population surveyed (6.5 per cent). Young bulls had the lowest percentage of bruising and the least amount of meat rejected of all the categories of animals surveyed. There was less ‘important’ bruising in animals travelling less than 50 miles from markets, but over 50 miles the amount of ‘important’ bruising did not increase. However, the incidence of all bruising increased with the distance travelled and with the time the animal spent in the lairage. More than half the carcases surveyed (59 per cent) had some degree of bruising caused by preslaughter handling. The areas most frequently bruised were the butt and hip, loin, shoulder/foreleg and neck, hind leg and flank/brisket. The number of carcases with an ultimate pH (pHu) of over 5.8 and the average pHu of the muscle increased with the amount of carcase bruising.
Evaluation of SEF14 fimbrial dot blot and flagellar Western blot tests as indicators of Salmonella enteritidis infection in chickens
Authors: Cooper G. L. , Thorns C. J.
Published: October 2010

The serological responses to Salmonella enteritidis flagella (H: g,m) and its fimbrial antigen SEF14 were evaluated as indicators of infection in chickens and to confirm serological results obtained by an ELISA using S enteritidis lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (0: 9, 12) as the detecting antigen. The SEF14 antigen and flagella were extracted from S enteritidis and transferred to nitrocellulose paper for use in Western and dot blot tests. Antisera to 19 salmonella serotypes including S enteritidis were raised in rabbits and their cross reactivity to the flagellar and SEF14 antigens was evaluated. Cross reactivity with the SEF14 antigen was found in one antiserum, raised against S blegdam, and to flagella in eight of 19 antisera raised against various salmonella serotypes, most of which shared the flagellar factors g or m with S enteritidis. The intensity of cross reaction to flagella was strongest in S derby and S blegdam antisera. Antisera raised in chickens against S typhimurium and S panama did not cross react in either test, and neither did pooled sera from eight‐week‐old salmonella‐free, broiler breeder parent chickens. Field sera from two commercial flocks with no history of salmonella infection were negative when tested by the LPS ELISA. These sera were also negative when tested by the flagellar and SEF14 blots. S enteritidis infection in a commercial laying flock was detected initially when the sera were tested by the LPS ELISA and confirmed in individual and pooled sera by the SEF14 and flagellar tests. S enteritidis PT4 was isolated from this flock post mortem.
Bacterial pneumonia associated with corticosteroid therapy in three horses
Authors: Mair T. S.
Published: October 2010

Three horses developed severe pulmonary infections while being treated with systemic corticosteroids for other diseases. Two of them had an immune‐mediated skin disease, compatible with a diagnosis of pemphigus foliaceus, and one had severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Case 1 developed diffuse pneumonia from whichStreptococcus zooepidemicusandBacteroides melaninogenicuswere isolated, and it responded to antibiotic therapy. Case 2 developed septicaemia, pulmonary thrombosis and pneumonia associated withEscherichia coli, and died during a peracute illness with signs of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Case 3 developed focal pneumonia from whichS zooepidemicuswas isolated. This horse was destroyed at the owner's request and no treatment was attempted.