bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synchronous motion of two-cylinder electrohydraulic system with unbalanced loading and uncertainties
Authors: Chen C-Y
Published: November 2007

In this paper, an integrated hybrid controller design, consisting of two independent sets of cylinder controllers (including a feedforward controller and a tracking fuzzy controller) and one synchronous fuzzy controller, is proposed for a two-cylinder electrohydraulic system, which is driven by one hydraulic oil supply, to achieve motion synchronization under the various conditions of unbalanced loading, system uncertainties, and disturbances. In the two-cylinder electrohydraulic servo systems, each electrohydraulic actuator not only moves independently but also has individual loading ability, without any mechanical constraint components, between two single-rod actuators. The proposed integrated hybrid controller design first utilizes two independent sets of cylinder controllers to enforce, as adaptively as possible, the position-tracking performance of two individual single-rod actuators. Next, to improve motion synchronization of the two-cylinder electrohydraulic servo systems further during the moving process, the synchronous fuzzy controller is merged with these two independent cylinder controllers to enhance the motion synchronization performance. The experimental results verify that this integrated hybrid control design can achieve the synchronous positioning of two independent, linear electrohydraulic actuators driven by one hydraulic oil supply. Meanwhile, the maximum synchronization error of the experimental system can be maintained within ±4 mm.
Robust decentralized controller with multi-objective performance design for stochastic large-scale systems via linear matrix inequalities approach
Authors: Wu W-B , Chen G , Chen P-C , Chang K-Y , Chang Y-H
Published: November 2007

The present paper focuses on a class of stochastic large-scale interconnected systems with norm-bounded and time-varying parameter uncertainties. The problem addressed is the design of a robust decentralized controller such that the corresponding interconnected closedloop system satisfies certain multi-objective performance requirements for all admissible uncertainties. The objectives of this robust design consist of individual state variance limitation, white noise attenuation constraints on H∞ norm, and pole placement specification. Suffcient conditions, based on a quadratic Lyapunov function, for multi-objective robustness are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). It is shown that the problem of multi-objective robust decentralized control can be solved and the effectiveness of the proposed approach is illustrated by a numerical example.
Improved robustness and sensor fault tolerance via a generalized internal model-based fault-tolerant controller
Authors: Yang S. S. , Chen J
Published: November 2007

In this paper the synthesis of an implicit fault-tolerant control system that is capable of handling multiple sensor faults in addition to modelling uncertainties is presented. The implicit approach allows sensor fault tolerance without the need for accurate information from the fault diagnosis element. Difficulties encountered when solving for a fault-tolerant control problem commonly related to the reliability and accuracy of its fault diagnosis element are thus avoided. Based on extensions to the generalized internal model-based controller (GIMC), the new development proposed in this paper includes the introduction of an Hinfin loop-shaping controller in the structure to facilitate best control performance augmented by standard H∞ controllers as a fault-compensating block to facilitate fault tolerance towards multiple sensor fault conditions and robustness towards modelling uncertainties. Crucial stability and robustness analysis/proofs of the proposed design are conveniently obtained. Sensor faults are modelled as functions within a bounded family of signals and an internal model of this family is embedded into the fault compensating H∞ controller which is cascaded to the H∞ loop-shaping controller. The reliability of operation towards modelling uncertainties is also shown to be guaranteed. Its potential for providing multiple sensor fault tolerance in addition to robustness towards modelling uncertainties is illustrated with a flight control system example; results are significant, as observed in a comparison of control performance with standard H∞ and μ controllers.
Intermittent model predictive control
Authors: Gawthrop P. J. , Wang L
Published: November 2007

Intermittent control, where a sequence of open-loop trajectories is punctuated by intermittent feedback, is described, and a number of design methods are presented. A generalized hold representation is derived and shown to be useful for both implementation and analysis. The relationship between predictive control of a time delay system and intermittent control is examined, and it is shown that a simplified predictor can be used in the latter case.

The applicability of intermittent control to the implementation of model-based predictive control (MPC) is discussed and illustrated by the control of a difficult mechanical system - a self-balancing seesaw.
An adaptive learning algorithm for controlling a two-degree-of-freedom serial ball-and-socket actuator
Authors: Al-Assadi H M A A , Hamouda A. M. S. , Ismail N , Aris I
Published: November 2007

This article presents the development and implementation of an artificial neural network (ANN) for controlling a new two-degree-of-freedom (2DOF) serial ball-and-socket actuator. The ANN is a well-known algorithm for simulating the ability of the human brain to learn and predict sets of information. In this approach, ANN will learn the control parameters to obtain the angular displacement, angular velocity, and angular acceleration of the end-effector without any prior knowledge of the actuator. The ball-and-socket actuator has been proposed as an alternative actuator to the conventional one-degree-of-freedom (1DOF) revolute actuator. The actuator was fabricated from a ball-and-socket joint powered by two electrohydraulic cylinders. Experimental control data had been collected manually and provided for ANN to learn in off-line mode. The training process was carried out to build control knowledge. Thus, the adaptive learning algorithm adopts any modification in the actuator mechanism and hydraulic power system through updating the control knowledge. The results of implementing the build control knowledge for on-line operation of the ball-and-socket actuator shows a fully compliant actuator end-effector to the desired dynamic behaviour within the workspace.
Bio-Inspired Membranes for Advanced Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells. Anhydrous Proton-Conducting Membrane via Molecular Self-Assembly
Authors: Honma Itaru , Yamada Masanori
Published: November 2007

Bio-inspired materials or natural biopolymers have attracted much attention for industrial applications as biocompatible materials. Although these materials have been discarded as industrial waste around the world, there is an increasing interest in environmental, engineering, and electrical applications of the biomaterials because of their well-controlled structures and superior conducting properties. The controlled structures of the hydrogen-bonding network in biomolecules, such as bioenergetic proteins, are essential for efficient energy transduction in living systems and application of a biomolecular mechanism could make it possible to prepare efficient electrolytes with superior conducting properties. We report here a recent investigation on the new class and new concept of electrolyte materials with bio-inspired molecular architectures of acid–base pairs for anhydrous proton conduction and its application in intermediate temperature (100–200 °C) polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC). Although some membranes were composed from entirely biomolecular materials, they showed large anhydrous proton conductivities from room temperature to 160 °C, and fuel cells employing biomembranes as a polymer electrolyte produced electrical power under non-humidified H2/O2 condition at 160 °C. These bio-inspired materials may have many potential applications not only because of its superior ion conducting properties, in particular, under anhydrous (water-free) or extremely low-humidity conditions, but also because of its biocompatibility.
Kinetic Stability of Gold Fullerenes and the 2(N+1)2 Rule
Authors: Ishida Toshimasa , Kanno Hideaki , Aihara Jun-ichi
Published: November 2007

Gold fullerenes conform to the 2(N+1)2 skeletal electron counting rule, namely, they attain the maximum degree of kinetic stability when they have 2(N+1)2 mobile electrons. Icosahedral Au32 (N=3) is predicted to possess the highest kinetic stability with the largest minimum bond resonance energy. Thus, gold fullerenes are much less sensitive to local ring structure than carbon fullerenes. In such a situation, the 2(N+1)2 rule works as a rule of kinetic stability rather than as that of spherical aromaticity.
New Steroids from the Soft Coral Nephthea chabrolii
Authors: Su Jui-Hsin , Lin Fang-Yee , Dai Chang-Feng , Wu Yang-Chang , Hsu Chi-Hsin , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: November 2007

Six new steroids, chabrolosteroids D–I (1–6), were isolated from the organic extract of a Taiwanese soft coral Nephthea chabrolii. The structures of these metabolites were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis. Metabolite 6 was found to exhibit weak cytotoxicity against the growth of Hep 3B and A-549 cell lines.
New and Direct Approach to Hypervalent Iodine Compounds from Arenes and Iodine. Straightforward Synthesis of (Diacetoxyiodo)arenes and Diaryliodonium Salts Using Potassium μ-Peroxo-hexaoxodisulfate
Authors: Hossain Md Delwar , Kitamura Tsugio
Published: November 2007

The reaction of arenes with elemental iodine, acetic acid, and potassium μ-peroxo-hexaoxodisulfate (K2S2O8) in the presence of concentrated sulfuric acid, efficiently generated the corresponding (diacetoxyiodo)arenes in good yields. Diaryliodonium triflates were directly synthesized by reaction of arenes with elemental iodine in good yields by using K2S2O8, AcOH, and TfOH. Diaryliodonium tosylates were also prepared from arenes and elemental iodine by using K2S2O8, AcOH, H2SO4, and TsOH. The procedure involved mild conditions and a straightforward one-pot synthesis.
Sequential Addition Reactions of Lithium Acetylides and Grignard Reagents to Selenoiminium Salts Leading to 2-Propynyl Tertiary Amines Bearing a Tetrasubstituted Carbon Center
Authors: Murai Toshiaki , Nogawa Sho , Mutoh Yuichiro
Published: November 2007

Selenoiminium salts generated in situ from selenoamides and MeOTf were reacted sequentially with lithium acetylides and Grignard reagents to give 2-propynyl tertiary amines bearing a tetrasubstituted carbon center. The lithium acetylides used were generated from (trimethylsilyl)acetylene, phenylacetylene, and 1-hexyne. Among them, that obtained from (trimethylsilyl)acetylene most effectively gave the corresponding products in higher yields. As Grignard reagents, alkyl-, vinyl-, allyl-, and benzylmagnesium halides gave the products with high efficiency, whereas the reaction of arylmagnesium halides did not proceed as well. A variety of 4-penteneselenoamides were synthesized by four-component coupling reactions of terminal acetylenes, elemental selenium, allylic bromides, and secondary amines, and subjected to the sequential addition reactions to give 5-amino-1,6-enynes. The diastereoselectivity of the reaction was found to depend on the substituents at the α-position of selenoamides and Grignard reagents. In the reaction of selenoiminium salts with excess Grignard reagents, amines that incorporated two molecules of Grignard reagents were formed in good yields.
Efficient Aerobic Oxidation of Phosphines, Phosphites, and Sulfides by Using Trialkylborane
Authors: Motoshima Kosuke , Sato Akinori , Yorimitsu Hideki , Oshima Koichiro
Published: November 2007

Treatment of phosphines, phosphites, or sulfides with trialkylborane under air afforded the corresponding oxides in good yields.
Structural basis of a ribozyme's thermostability: P1–L9 interdomain interaction in RNase P RNA
Authors: Marszalkowski Michal , Willkomm Dagmar K. , Hartmann Roland K.
Published: November 2007

For stability, many catalytic RNAs rely on long-range tertiary interactions, the precise role of each often being unclear. Here we demonstrate that one of the three interdomain architectural struts of RNase P RNA (P RNA) is the key to activity at higher temperatures: disrupting the P1–L9 helix–tetraloop interaction in P RNA of the thermophile Thermus thermophilus decreased activity at high temperatures in the RNA-alone reaction and at low Mg2+ concentrations in the holoenzyme reaction. Conversely, implanting the P1–P9 module of T. thermophilus in the P RNA from the mesophile Escherichia coli converted the latter RNA into a thermostable one. Moreover, replacing the E. coli P1–P9 elements with a pseudoknot module that mediates the homologous interaction in Mycoplasma P RNAs not only conferred thermostability upon E. coli P RNA but also increased its maximum turnover rate at 55°C to the highest yet described for a P RNA ribozyme.
Early evolution of histone mRNA 3′ end processing
Authors: Dávila López Marcela , Samuelsson Tore
Published: November 2007

The replication-dependent histone mRNAs in metazoa are not polyadenylated, in contrast to the bulk of mRNA. Instead, they contain an RNA stem–loop (SL) structure close to the 3′ end of the mature RNA, and this 3′ end is generated by cleavage using a machinery involving the U7 snRNP and protein factors such as the stem–loop binding protein (SLBP). This machinery of 3′ end processing is related to that of polyadenylation as protein components are shared between the systems. It is commonly believed that histone 3′ end processing is restricted to metazoa and green algae. In contrast, polyadenylation is ubiquitous in Eukarya. However, using computational approaches, we have now identified components of histone 3′ end processing in a number of protozoa. Thus, the histone mRNA stem–loop structure as well as the SLBP protein are present in many different protozoa, including Dictyostelium, alveolates, Trypanosoma, and Trichomonas. These results show that the histone 3′ end processing machinery is more ancient than previously anticipated and can be traced to the root of the eukaryotic phylogenetic tree. We also identified histone mRNAs from both metazoa and protozoa that are polyadenylated but also contain the signals characteristic of histone 3′ end processing. These results provide further evidence that some histone genes are regulated at the level of 3′ end processing to produce either polyadenylated RNAs or RNAs with the 3′ end characteristic of replication-dependent histone mRNAs.
Identification and characterization of a tRNA decoding the rare AUA codon inHaloarcula marismortui
Authors: Köhrer Caroline , Srinivasan Gayathri , Mandal Debabrata , Mallick Bibekanand , Ghosh Zhumur , Chakrabarti Jayprokas , Rajbhandary Uttam L.
Published: November 2007

Annotation of the complete genome of the extreme halophilic archaeonHaloarcula marismortuidoes not include a tRNA for translation of AUA, the rare codon for isoleucine. This is a situation typical for most archaeal genomes sequenced to date. Based on computational analysis, it has been proposed recently that a single intron-containing tRNA gene produces two very similar but functionally different tRNAs by means of alternative splicing; a UGG-decoding tRNATrpCCAand an AUA-decoding tRNAIleUAU. Through analysis of tRNAs fromH. marismortui, we have confirmed the presence of tRNATrpCCA, but found no evidence for the presence of tRNAIleUAU. Instead, we have shown that a tRNA, currently annotated as elongator methionine tRNA and containing CAU as the anticodon, is aminoacylated with isoleucine in vivo and that this tRNA represents the missing isoleucine tRNA. Interestingly, this tRNA carries a base modification of C34 in the anticodon different from the well-known lysidine found in eubacteria, which switches the amino acid identity of the tRNA from methionine to isoleucine and its decoding specificity from AUG to AUA. The methods described in this work for the identification of individual tRNAs present inH. marismortuiprovide the tools necessary for experimentally confirming the presence of any tRNA in a cell and, thereby, to test computational predictions of tRNA genes.
Simple Models of Discrete Choice and Their Performance in Bandit Experiments
Authors: Gans Noah , Knox George , Croson Rachel
Published: November 2007

Recent operations management papers model customers as solving multiarmed bandit problems, positing that consumers use a particular heuristic when choosing among suppliers. These papers then analyze the resulting competition among suppliers and mathematically characterize the equilibrium actions. There remains a question, however, as to whether the original customer models on which the analyses are built are reasonable representations of actual consumer choice. In this paper, we empirically investigate how well these choice rules match actual performance as people solve two-armed Bernoulli bandit problems. We find that some of the most analytically tractable models perform best in tests of model fit. We also find that the expected number of consecutive trials of a given supplier is increasing in its expected quality level, with increasing differences, a result consistent with the models' predictions as well as with loyalty effects described in the popular management literature.
The Effect of Operational Performance and Focus on Profitability: A Longitudinal Study of the U.S. Airline Industry
Authors: Tsikriktsis Nikos
Published: November 2007

We study the impact of operational performance on profitability in the context of the U.S. domestic airline industry. In addition, we investigate the impact of focus [Skinner, W. 1974. The focused factory. Harvard Bus. Rev. 52(3) 113–121] on profitability in services. We use quarterly data on all major carriers, available since the introduction of required reporting of service indicators to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Our analysis demonstrates two main points. First, the relationship between operational performance and profitability is contingent on a company's operating model; “focused” airlines show a link between late arrivals and profitability while full-service airlines do not. Also, capacity utilization is a stronger driver of profitability for full-service airlines than for focused airlines. Second, focused airlines outperform the rest of the industry in terms of profitability.
Store Manager Incentive Design and Retail Performance: An Exploratory Investigation
Authors: DeHoratius Nicole , Raman Ananth
Published: November 2007

Store managers perform multiple tasks within a store, and the way in which they are evaluated and rewarded for these tasks affects their behavior. Using empirical data from multiple stores of a consumer electronics retailer, Tweeter Home Entertainment Group, we highlight the extent to which store manager incentive design impacts store manager behavior and, consequently, retail performance. More specifically, we describe the shift in store manager behavior resulting from a change in incentives, which, in part, altered the importance of sales relative to inventory shrinkage in the store manager compensation plan. Store managers, following this change, directed less attention to the prevention of inventory shrinkage and more toward sales-generating activities and made different process choices within the store. We observed increases in the level of inventory shrinkage and sales within these stores. Controlling for alternative drivers of sales and inventory shrinkage, we find this change in incentive design to be associated with a profit improvement of 4.2% of sales. This work indicates that altering how store managers are compensated impacts retail performance. Moreover, our findings underscore the importance of balancing the rewards given for different types of activities in contexts where agents face multiple competing tasks.
Public policy: core business and by-products
Authors: Graycar Adam
Published: November 2007

English

This paper explores the interesting phenomenon of unintended consequences in policy making: that benefits may accrue in one domain of policy making as the result of actions in another with very different interests and priorities. For example, a key randomised controlled trial of a nurse home visiting programme for young mothers identified significant long term crime reduction benefits among their children. Policy makers, in Australia and elsewhere, are currently not well equipped to recognise or capitalise on these by-products of policy making, and the author offers some suggestions for improving matters.
Eleven obstacles to translating research into policy on gender-based violence
Authors: Spangaro Jo
Published: November 2007

English

This article presents an ‘insider’s’ perspective on research utilisation after eight years of policy experience working on gender-related violence in New South Wales, Australia. It considers why policy makers do not always make good use of research and is based predominantly on personal reflection. Eleven different obstacles are described that relate to issues including timeframes, the local relevance of overseas research, access to data, the constraints imposed by the evidence-based policy movement, the need to address different audiences and the feasibility of implementation.
What evidence base? Steps towards the relational evaluation of social interventions
Authors: Koivisto Juha
Published: November 2007

English

This article first applies the yardstick developed by Bruno Latour for studying the ontological approaches used in the social studies of science to three mainstream approaches to effectiveness research in the social sphere: positivism, social constructivism and realistic evaluation. An alternative to the dualistic ontology of effectiveness research is then developed. The relational approach sees the world as materially heterogeneous networks and relations (socio-material, socio-technical) that are continually performed and (re)constituted by human and non-human elements. A brief hypothetical illustration of how this ontological standpoint might be reflected in the practice of effectiveness research is then presented.
Immunohistochemical Markers for Quantitative Studies of Neurons and Glia in Human Neocortex
Authors: Lyck Lise , Dalmau Ishar , Chemnitz John , Finsen Bente , Schrøder Henrik Daa
Published: November 2007

Reproducible visualization of neurons and glia in human brain is essential for quantitative studies of the cellular changes in neurological disease. However, immunohistochemistry in human brain specimens is often compromised because of prolonged fixation. To select cell lineage–specific antibodies for quantitative studies of neurons and the major types of glia, we used 29 different antibodies, different epitope retrieval methods, and different detection systems to stain tissue arrays of formalin-fixed human brain. The screening pointed at CD45/leukocyte common antigen (LCA), CD68(KP1), 2′, 3′ cyclic nucleotide phosphatase (CNPase), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), HLA-DR, Ki67, neuronal nuclei (NeuN), p25α-antigen, and S100β as candidates for future cell counting purposes, because these markers visualized specific neuronal and glial cell bodies. However, significant negative correlation between staining result and formalin fixation was observed by blinded scoring of staining for CD45/LCA, CNPase, GFAP, and NeuN in brain specimens fixed by immersion and stored up to 10 years in 4% formalin solution at room temperature, independent of donor sex and postmortem interval. In contrast, improved preservation of NeuN and CNPase staining, and full preservation of GFAP and CD45/LCA staining in tissue fixed by perfusion and stored for up to 3 years in 0.1% paraformaldehyde solution at 4C, indicated that immunohistochemistry can be performed in well-preserved biobank material.
Aberrant Expression of Histo-blood Group A Type 3 Antigens in Vascular Endothelial Cells in Inflammatory Sites
Authors: Nosaka Mizuho , Ishida Yuko , Tanaka Aki , Hayashi Takahito , Miyashita Tomoko , Kaminaka Chikako , Eisenmenger Wolfgang , Furukawa Fukumi , Kimura Akihiko
Published: November 2007

Histo-blood group ABH antigens are widely distributed in human tissues. The epitopes of ABH antigens are carried by at least four different peripheral core isotypes of internal carbohydrate backbones (type 1–4). Each type of ABH antigen is expressed tissue specifically, and aberrant expression of ABH antigens is often observed during oncogenesis. We immunohistochemically examined the expression of A type 3 antigens in wounded and diseased skin tissues (A and AB blood groups). In uninjured skin, the expression of A type 3 antigens was restricted to the eccrine sweat gland. In addition to the sweat glands, A type 3 antigens were found in vascular endothelial cells of the wound sites. The extent of A type 3 antigens expression related to postinfliction intervals. A significantly higher expression rate of A type 3 antigens in endothelial cells was also observed in diseased skin, suggesting that inflammation might induce A type 3 antigen expression in endothelial cells. Double-color immunofluorescence staining of the specimens showed that von Willebrand factor (vWF) was a core-protein of A type 3 determinants aberrantly expressed in endothelial cells in inflamed tissues, suggesting that aberrant expression of A type 3 antigens is involved in stabilization of vWF in inflammation.
A Critical Appraisal of Current Practice in the Detection, Analysis, and Reporting of Cryoglobulins
Authors: Vermeersch Pieter , Gijbels Koenraad , Mariën Godelieve , Lunn Rod , Egner William , White Peter , Bossuyt Xavier
Published: November 2007

To assess current practice in the detection, analysis, and reporting of cryoglobulins, a questionnaire was sent to 140 laboratories. Only 36% of laboratories used standard procedures (tube preheating, transport in container, and sedimentation and/or centrifugation at 37 °C) to ensure that the temperature did not drop below 37 °C until after serum separation. Time periods allowed for cryoprecipitation at 4 °C varied from 12 h to 9 days, with 30% of laboratories allowing precipitation for <3 days. After cryoprecipitation, 81% of laboratories resolubilized the cryoprecipitate at 37 °C, and 77% further immunotyped the cryoprecipitate. After analysis, 5% referred the sample for confirmation, 58% provided a nonquantitative report, and 37% reported the cryoglobulin concentration in the cryoprecipitate as cryocrit, total protein concentration, and/or immunoglobulin concentration. Only 3 laboratories (2%) provided cryoprecipitate-specific reference values for total protein content, and none provided reference values for immunoglobulins. We believe standardization is needed for cryoglobulin detection to avoid missed diagnoses and improve the comparability of results. Laboratories should ensure that sample temperature does not drop below 37 °C until after serum separation. The serum should cryoprecipitate at 4 °C for at least 3 (preferably 7) days. The cryoprecipitate should be washed and resolubilized at 37 °C for further analysis.
Evaluation of a Fully Automated Serum Assay for Total N-Terminal Propeptide of Type I Collagen in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Garnero Patrick , Vergnaud Philippe , Hoyle Nicholas
Published: November 2007

Background: Biochemical markers of bone turnover can provide prognostic information about the risk of fracture and may be useful for monitoring efficacy of antiresorptive and anabolic therapy in osteoporosis. We evaluated the performance of a fully automated assay for serum total N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (P1NP), a marker of bone formation.

Methods: Serum P1NP was measured on the Elecsys 2010 automated analyzer (Roche) in 230 healthy premenopausal women, age 30–49 years, 179 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis participating in the previously published 1 year randomized Parathyroid Hormone and Alendronate for Osteoporosis study of full-length parathyroid hormone (PTH 1-84, >100 μg/day subcutaneously; n = 119) or oral alendronate 10 mg/day (n = 60), and 64 healthy men, age 40 to 65 years.

Results: The within-run and between-run (total) imprecision (CVs) were ≤1.7% (n = 20) and 4.4% (n = 15), respectively. The median within-person variability of results (3 measurements over 3 months in 15 postmenopausal women) was 7.2%, resulting in a least significant change (LSC) value of 20%. Serum P1NP concentrations were 74% (P <0.0001) higher in postmenopausal women than in premenopausal controls. After 3 months of treatment, 83% and 88% of patients treated with PTH 1-84 and alendronate, respectively, demonstrated changes of serum P1NP that exceeded the LSC.

Conclusion: The automated assay for serum total P1NP is precise and sensitive enough to detect changes that exceed the LSC in a majority of postmenopausal women after 3 months of treatment with PTH 1-84 or alendronate. Because of its convenience and high throughput, this bone formation marker may be useful for the monitoring of patients with osteoporosis
Erythrocyte Fatty Acid Composition and the Metabolic Syndrome: A National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute GOLDN Study
Authors: Kabagambe Edmond K , Tsai Michael Y , Hopkins Paul N , Ordovas Jose M , Peacock James M , Borecki Ingrid B , Arnett Donna K
Published: November 2007

Background: Different fatty acids may vary in their effect on the metabolic syndrome (MetS). We tested whether fatty acid classes measured in erythrocytes are associated with the MetS or its components.

Methods: Included were men [n = 497; mean (SD) age, 49 (16) years] and women [n = 539; age, 48 (16) years] from 187 families in a National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) family study of the Genetics of Lipid-Lowering Drugs and Diet Network (GOLDN) conducted in Utah and Minnesota. We used gas chromatography to measure erythrocyte fatty acids and obtained data on potential confounding variables from interviewer-administered questionnaires.

Results: The prevalence of the MetS as defined by the updated Adult Treatment Panel III criteria was 36.8% in Utah and 39.6% in Minnesota (P >0.05). In a multivariate model that included 4 fatty acid classes, covariates, and pedigree as a random effect, the odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for the MetS in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quartile of polyunsaturated fatty acids were 1.00, 0.72 (0.47–1.10), 0.67 (0.43–1.05), and 0.39 (0.24–0.64), respectively (P for trend = 0.0002). For the corresponding quartiles of saturated fatty acids, the odds ratios were 1.00, 1.19 (0.77–1.84), 1.48 (0.94–2.34), and 1.63 (1.01–2.63), respectively (P for trend = 0.03). Unlike n6 fatty acids, which showed an inverse association (P <0.05) with MetS, n3, trans, and monounsaturated fatty acids were not associated with the MetS (P >0.05). We observed significant correlations (P <0.05) between fatty acid classes, insulin, and components of the MetS.

Conclusions: Polyunsaturated fats are inversely associated with the MetS, whereas saturated fatty acids are positively associated with the MetS, probably through their effect on lipids, adiposity, insulin, and blood pressure.
Maternal Factors in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants Who Develop Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation
Authors: Ragouilliaux Corinne J. , Keeney Susan E. , Hawkins Hal K. , Rowen Judith L.
Published: November 2007

BACKGROUND. Spontaneous intestinal perforation of the extremely low birth weight infant (≤1000 g) is associated with a high incidence of Candida and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus sepsis. Little is known about prenatal risk factors, and histopathologic examination of placentas in infants with spontaneous intestinal perforation has not been reported.

OBJECTIVES. Our objective was to investigate maternal factors and specific placental findings in a sample of infants with spontaneous intestinal perforation. We compared the maternal factors and clinical outcomes to a matched control group.

PATIENTS AND METHODS. This single-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2001 and December 2005. The records of extremely low birth weight infants with spontaneous intestinal perforation were reviewed (n = 16). Study infants were matched to 2 infants in the control group; any twin of a study patient was also included as a control subject (n = 35). Histopathologic examination of placentas included standard hematoxylin and eosin and methenamine silver stains.

RESULTS. Infants with spontaneous intestinal perforation were more likely than control subjects to have severe placental chorioamnionitis with fetal vascular response (40% vs 12%); 2 placentas also tested positive for yeast versus none in the control subjects. Mothers of infants with spontaneous intestinal perforation were more likely than control subjects to have received antibiotics before or at delivery (93% vs 57%). Fifty percent of the infants had Candida, and 31% in the spontaneous intestinal perforation group had coagulase-negative Staphylococcus sepsis versus 6% in the control subjects. Finally, infants with spontaneous intestinal perforation had delayed enteral feeding (64 ± 30 vs 31 ± 10 days) and prolonged hospitalization (155 ± 48 vs 108 ± 36 days).

CONCLUSIONS. Spontaneous intestinal perforation in the extremely low birth weight infant is a neonatal disease related to placental inflammation. We alert practitioners to the importance of placental findings, because they may be positive for yeast.
Phenotypic and genotypic characterisation of Pasteurella multocida strains isolated from pigs in Hungary
Authors: Varga Zsuzsanna , Sellyei Boglárka , Magyar T.
Published: November 2007

A total of 146
Pasteurella multocida
strains isolated from swine in Hungary in the last 20 years were examined. Biochemical characterisation and PCR-based techniques were used to determine species, subspecies, biovar, capsule type and presence of the
toxA
gene. Eighty-seven percent of the isolates belonged to
P. multocida
ssp.
multocida
, and 98% of these had biovar 3 or were trehalose-or lactose-fermenting or ornithine decarboxylase negative variants of that. Ten percent of the strains were
P. multocida
ssp.
septica
, and within this group 80% of the strains showed sorbitol-negative biovars (5, 6 and 7). The rest of the strains (20%) were lactose positive. Only 3% of the porcine isolates were
P. multocida
ssp.
gallicida
and 3 out of the 4 strains belonged to the dulcitol-fermenting biovar 8. Using a capsule-specific multiplex PCR, 60% of the strains belonged to capsule type D, 38% to capsule type A, and only 1 isolate had capsule type F. In contrast with data published in the literature, only 3% of capsule type D isolates carried the
toxA
gene, while this ratio was 41% for the type A strains. A remarkable regional distribution of
toxA
gene positive strains was observed. All but two isolates were found in swine herds located in the Transdanubian region, separated from other parts of Hungary by the river Danube.
Clinicochemical follow-up of broiler rearing — A five-week study
Authors: Szabó A. , Milisits G.
Published: November 2007

Commercial broilers were raised in a 5-week period and a detailed clinico-chemical follow-up was carried out, to characterise a flock selected for one-sided muscle mass production. Blood samples were drawn at the ages of 1 day, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 weeks, and plasma enzyme activities, metabolite and ion concentrations were determined. Early increases were found for all plasma nitrogenous compounds (total protein, albumin, creatinine and urate). Triglyceride showed a post-hatch peak with a significant effect of age. Plasma total cholesterol was characterised by a marked post-hatch concentration peak, while during the first week its concentration decreased markedly. Plasma AST showed an increase during the rearing, while a one-magnitude increment was found for creatine kinase activity during the study. The main results of the study outlined a typical precocial bird (post-hatch triglyceride peak; decreasing cholesterol and early peaking plasma protein and urate concentrations) with very quick skeletal muscle mass growth (increasing creatine kinase and AST activities, slight hyperkalaemia).
Effects of ochratoxin a on some production traits, lipid peroxide and glutathione redox status of weaned piglets
Authors: Balogh K. , Hausenblasz J. , Weber Mária , Erdélyi Márta , Fodor Judit , Mézes M.
Published: November 2007

The effect of feeding ochratoxin A (OTA) contaminated diet (379.6 and 338.1 μg/kg in starter and grower diets) on production traits, lipid peroxidation and some parameters of the glutathione redox system were investigated in weaned piglets over a seven-week period. Feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) did not differ significantly, but in the first phase (0–28 days) the daily weight gain was significantly lower in the piglets fed the OTA-contaminated diet. Lipid peroxidation, as measured by the amount of malondialdehyde, glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase activity, did not change significantly in the blood plasma and red blood cell haemolysate in the OTA-loaded group, while malondialdehyde content increased significantly in the liver and markedly but not significantly in the kidney of piglets fed OTA-contaminated feed. Glutathione content did not differ significantly in the studied organs of the two groups while glutathione peroxidase activity of the OTA-loaded animals was significantly lower both in the liver and in the kidney. The results suggest that the use of feed-stuffs contaminated with low levels of OTA for seven weeks did not cause marked differences in the production traits or in lipid peroxidation and amount or activity of the glutathione redox system in the blood plasma, red blood cells and kidney, while significant changes occurred in the liver homogenate.
Serological evidence for Babesia canis infection of horses and an endemic focus of B. caballi in Hungary
Authors: Hornok S. , Edelhofer Renate , Földvári G. , Joachim Anja , Farkas R.
Published: November 2007

In order to evaluate the seroconversion of horses to
Babesia caballi
and
B. canis
in Hungary, blood samples were collected from 371 animals on 23 different locations of the country. The presence of antibodies to
B. caballi
was screened with a competitive ELISA. All 29 positive samples came from one region (the Hortobágy). The prevalence of infection did not show correlation with sexes, and reached 100% in the age group of 2–5 years.
Babesia canis
-specific antibodies were demonstrated by IFAT in 6.74% of animals kept in 7 regions. The titres were low or medium level (1:40 to 1:160), indicating that the horses had previously been exposed to this piroplasm, but their infection must have been limited. The highest seropositivity rate was observed in the age group of 3–4 years, and males (stallions and geldings) were significantly more frequently infected than females. However, neither
B. caballi
nor
B. canis
could be identified in the peripheral blood samples of infected horses by PCR. Since most of the
B. caballi
-positive horses remained negative in the
B. canis
IFAT, whereas seroconversion solely to
B. canis
was detected in several regions of the country, serological cross-reaction between the two species can be discounted. This is the first serological evidence of horses being naturally infected with
B. canis
, supporting the view that piroplasms are less host specific than previously thought.
Myxobolus infections of common carp ( Cyprinus carpio ) in Syrian fish farms
Authors: Dayoub Amal , Molnár K. , Salman H. , Al-Samman A. , Székely Cs.
Published: November 2007

During a survey on
Myxobolus
infection of pond-cultured common carp in Syria three
Myxobolus
spp. were found.
Myxobolus dispar
infected the gill arteries, forming large elongated plasmodia in the gill filaments. The plasmodia of
M. basilamellaris
were located in the gill arches at the base of the filaments. Elongated filiform plasmodia of
M. encephalicus
were found in the blood vessels of the brain. Despite the common occurrence of the above parasites, no disease symptoms were observed in the infected fish specimens. This is the first report on myxosporean infection of fish from Syrian waters.
Activin Subunit and Receptor Expression in Normal and Cleft Human Fetal Palate Tissues
Authors: Lambert-Messerlian Geralyn , Eklund Elizabeth , Pinar Halit , Tantravahi Umadevi , Schneyer Alan L.
Published: November 2007

Craniofacial malformations, such as cleft palate, present serious complications in the newborn and are often of unknown etiology. Activin BA subunit deletion leads to cleft palate in mice, but the expression of this protein in the human palate has not been explored. Our goal was to determine the spatial and temporal expression of inhibin/activin subunits; the binding protein, follistatin; and activin receptors in the human fetal palate. Residual human fetal palate tissues, with or without cleft, were collected during routine autopsy at Women and Infants Hospital. Inhibin/activin alpha and beta subunits, follistatin, and activin receptor protein and mRNA expression were studied by immunocytochemistry and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) experiments, respectively. Dimeric activin A levels were compared in cleft and normal palate tissue homogenates by immunoassay. Activin BA, follistatin, and activin receptor type IIA proteins were observed in normal and cleft palate tissues throughout pregnancy (gestational weeks 11 to 40). Proteins were predominantly found in developing bone cells, with no significant group differences. Inhibin/activin BA subunit, follistatin, and activin receptor mRNAs were also detected in normal and cleft fetal palate tissues, but inhibin alpha and BB subunit were absent. Inhibin/activin BA subunit expression was consistent with the presence of dimeric activin A, but levels did not differ significantly between cleft and control tissues. Inhibin/activin BA subunit, follistatin, and activin receptor proteins and mRNAs are present in the human fetal palate. These data suggest that activin signalling has the potential to be associated with human palate development.
Congenital Cerebellar Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor in an Infant with Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa
Authors: Krous Henry F. , Chadwick Amy E. , Haas Elisabeth A. , Breisch Eric , Masoumi Homeyra
Published: November 2007

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a hereditary blistering condition of the skin, is divided into simplex, hemidesmosomal, junctional, and dystrophic types. It may be complicated by the development of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, but other neoplasms, especially those separate from involved skin, are distinctly rare. We report a male infant with junctional EB who died of Pseudomonas sepsis and was found at autopsy to have a clinically unrecognized cerebellar malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT). This is the first reported case of an infant with EB and a coincident extracutaneous neoplasm. It is also the first known case of EB associated with a pathologically confirmed malignant brain tumor. Cytogenetic results from the infant and his tumor and both of his parents suggest the infant's EB and MRT were not genetically linked.
Effects of Long and Short-Term Progestagen Treatments Combined with PMSG on Oestrus Synchronization and Fertility in Awassi Ewes during the Breeding Season
Authors: Ustuner B. , Gunay U. , Nur Z. , Ustuner H.
Published: November 2007

Synchronization of oestrus has been used to increase reproductive efficiency in most animals, including ewes. The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of the length of a progestagen treatment (12 d vs. 6 d) on synchronization efficiency (oestrus response, time to onset of oestrus and duration of oestrus) and fertility rate using fluorogestone acetate (FGA) progestagen sponge treatment with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) administration applied at different times of sponge removal. Ewes (n = 68) were divided into two groups; long term (LT, n = 33) and short term (ST, n = 35) groups treated with FGA progestagen sponges. At the end of intravaginal sponge treatment period the animals of each group were divided into the 3 subgroups in relation to time of PMSG (300 IU) treatment. PMSG treatment was applied 24 h before sponge removal, at sponge removal and 24 h after sponge removal for LT1 and ST1, LT2 and ST2, and LT3 and ST3, respectively. Each ewe was inseminated intra-cervically twice with skim cow milk-diluted semen (1000 × 106 motile cells/ml) 40 h and 60 h after sponge removal. Non-return rates (NRR-30) were monitored from 12 day after sponge removal to 30 day with the aid of teaser rams. Onsets of oestrus response and oestrus cessation were significantly different (P < 0.05) between the ST and LT treatment groups. Synchronization of oestrus was tighter in LT than ST group. Except for oestrus cessation, other indicators studied were not different in the ST subgroups. In the ST subgroups the oestrus cessation of the ST1 (88.7 ± 15.4 h) was the shortest and differed from ST3 (120.0 ± 14.2 h) (P < 0.05). No statistical difference was observed among all studied indicators for LT groups according to application time of PMSG (P >). The NRR-30 and lambing rate of the ST and LT after timed AI were 35.7% and 31.0% and 32.1% and 28.6%, respectively (P > 0.05).
In vitro Maturation and Fertilization of Riverine Buffalo Follicular Oocytes in Media Supplemented with Oestrus Buffalo Serum and Hormones
Authors: Jamil H. , Samad H. A. , Rehman N. U. , Qureshi Z. I. , Lodhi L. A.
Published: November 2007

Effects of two maturation media (TCM-199 and Ham's F-12) with and without the addition of oestrus buffalo serum (OBS) and hormones (FSH, LH, E2) on the maturation rate of buffalo follicular oocytes were evaluated. The results revealed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the maturation rate when the OBS and hormones were added to TCM-199 than in Ham's F-12 medium. The percentage of maturation rates in TCM-199 + hormones + OBS, TCM-199 + hormones, TCM-199 + OBS and TCM-199 were 77.44, 55.17, 62.28 and 26.62 percent, respectively. While in Ham's F-12 + OBS + hormone, Ham'F-12 + hormone, Ham's F-12 + OBS and Ham's F-12 were 32.85, 27.52, 31.38 and 13.46 percent, respectively. A significantly higher (P < 0.05) fertilization rate was recorded for modified Ca2+ free Tyrode's medium (63.72%) than in TALP (10.9%) and IVF-TL (32.18%). Thus, TCM-199 containing hormones and OBS appeared better for in vitro maturation, whereas modified Ca2+ free tyrode's medium was found to be more suitable for in vitro fertilization of buffalo follicular oocytes.
Detection of Avian Influenza Virus of H9 Subtype in the Faeces of Experimentally and Naturally Infected Chickens by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Noroozian H. , Marandi M. Vasfi , Razazian M.
Published: November 2007

Avian Influenza (AI) is a viral, highly contagious disease of domestic and wild birds. In an avian diagnostic laboratory, it is essential to have methods for rapid detection of respiratory viruses. In the present study, cloacal swabs collected from chickens experimentally and naturally infected with mild pathogenicity AI virus subtype H9, used in a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) assay for detection of AI. On cloacal swabs collected from experimentally infected chickens, AI virus was detected most frequently between days 3 and 7 post infection (p.i.) and the relative sensitivity, specificity, correlation rate, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the RT-PCR compared to virus isolation (VI) assay were 84%, 80%, 82%, 83% and 81%, respectively. On pooled cloacal swabs collected from flocks suspected of AI, these results were 96%, 100%, 97%, 83% and 100%, respectively. The results proved that the RT-PCR assay could be a reliable and rapid alternative to VI assay for detection of AI virus subtype H9 in faecal specimens.