bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Sensory Scores and near Infrared Absorptions in Characterising Bitto, an Italian Protected Denomination of Origin Cheese
Authors: Cattaneo Tiziana M.P. , Tornelli Cristina , Erini Selene , Panarelli Elena Veronica
Published: July 2008

Historically, specific types of cheese are made in certain geographic areas. Often they have unique flavour characteristics. Studies have suggested the role of local pastures in determining cheese aroma. Bitto is a protected denomination of origin cheese produced in summer in Valtellina (Lombardy, Italy). The aim of this paper was to study the relationship between sensory scores assigned to Bitto cheese by a highly trained panel of experts and near infrared (NIR) data in verifying the NIR ability in predicting sensory characteristics. Bitto moulds (39), with assigned sensory scores, were analysed in the whole NIR range by an Fourier transform-NIR spectrometer. Grated cheese spectra (156) were recorded in reflectance mode. Spectra were grouped in two independent sets (calibration/prediction set = 30 samples; test set = nine samples). PLS1 and PLSD were applied. PLS1 results allowed a satisfactory prediction of total sensory score ( RMSEP 2.53; bias 1.2; slope 0.814) and an acceptable prediction of “Taste and Flavour” score ( RMSEP 0.60; bias 0.51; slope 0.565) for the nine samples in the test set. An acceptable preliminary classification of samples into three “quality classes” was also obtained applying PLSD. Factor loadings plots allowed the identification of some NIR absorption bands related to the development of cheese taste and flavour.
Detection of Low Volatility Organic Analytes on Soils Using Infrared Reflection Spectroscopy
Authors: Gallagher Neal B. , Gassman Paul L. , Blake Thomas A.
Published: July 2008

Previous work on the detection of low-volatility liquid organic (and organophosphorus) analytes on soil indicated a strong signal in Fourier transform infrared spectra in the 2966–2855 cm−1 range attributed to C-H vibrational stretching modes. This range is the focus of detection strategies examined here as an anticipated prelude to subsequent detection and classification approaches utilising additional spectral bands. This laboratory study is being used to test detection algorithms that may be useful for rapid stand-off detection of organic compounds on soil. Six signal processing methods (designed to minimise irrelevant variability in the recorded soil reflection spectra while enhancing signal from analyte compounds possibly present on soil) were studied. These included Savitzky-Golay second derivatives, extended multiplicative scatter correction (EMSC) and a novel alternative to piece-wise EMSC. The pre-processed signal was then used for detection. Previous work utilised principal components analysis (PCA)-based multivariate statistical process control methodologies for detection. Six alternative anomaly detection statistics were examined here that were based on the pre-processed signal, weighted signal and generalised weighted signal. The latter statistic can be considered easier than PCA with many of the same benefits. Two tests corresponding to different monitoring strategies were examined: test data “local” and “non-local” to the calibration data. Although the results are expected to be optimistic, the generalised weighted approach worked extremely well for the “local” detection test, but was less successful for the “non-local” test. Results suggest that good characterisation of analyte-free soil prior to monitoring will lead to the best detection performance. Second derivative pre-processing showed the best results on receiver operator characteristic curves and its ease of application is a distinct advantage. However, it may not be universally successful for all bands to be considered in the future. Both EMSC and the novel “piece-wise” EMSC methodology showed promise, but some improvements may be necessary.
Short Communication: Determination of Constituent Content of Peanuts Using Near-Infrared Transmission Spectroscopy and Their Relationship with Taste Test Parameters
Authors: Natsuga Motoyasu , Egashira Hiroaki , Sue Yoshie , Ikeda Takeshi , Ooba Mutsuo
Published: July 2008

We developed calibrations for the constituent content of peanuts such as sucrose, NRQ (defined by ninhydrine reaction, which has a high positive correlation with total free amino acids) and glutamic acid using a commercial near infrared (NIR) transmission analyser. Calibrations for four parameters in the taste test such as aroma, sweetness, umami and overall flavour were developed as well. The results show that calibrations for each constituent demonstrate reasonable accuracy with R2 = 0.85 and SECV = 0.67% for oil, R2 = 0.71 and SECV = 0.33% for sucrose, R2 = 0.63 and SECV = 0.017% for NRQ and R2 = 0.77 and SECV = 0.014% for glutamic acid. However, the constituent composition did not demonstrate significant correlation with taste test parameters and our attempts to obtain good NIR calibrations for taste test parameters also failed.
A Review of Genetic Algorithms in near Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics: Past and Future
Authors: Koljonen Janne , Nordling Torbjörn E.M. , Alander Jarmo T.
Published: July 2008

Global optimisation and search problems are abundant in science and engineering, including spectroscopy and its applications. Therefore, it is hardly surprising that general optimisation and search methods such as genetic algorithms (GAs) have also found applications in the area of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. A brief introduction to genetic algorithms, their objectives and applications in NIR spectroscopy, as well as in chemometrics, is given. The most popular application for GAs in NIR spectroscopy is wavelength, or more generally speaking, variable selection. GAs are both frequently used and convenient in multi-criteria optimisation; for example, selection of pre-processing methods, wavelength inclusion, and selection of latent variables can be optimised simultaneously. Wavelet transform has recently been applied to pre-processing of NIR data. In particular, hybrid methods of wavelets and genetic algorithms have in a number of research papers been applied to pre-processing, wavelength selection and regression with good success. In all calibrations and, in particular, when optimising, it is essential to validate the model and to avoid over-fitting. GAs have a large potential when addressing these two major problems and we believe that many future applications will emerge. To conclude, optimisation gives good opportunities to simultaneously develop an accurate calibration model and to regulate model complexity and prediction ability within a considered validation framework.
The US Pharmacopeia near Infrared System Suitability Reference Standard
Authors: Ritchie Gary E. , Casay Guillermo A. , Cecil Todd L. , Dressman Shawn F. , Abernethy Darrell R. , Schuber Stefan , Williams Roger L.
Published: July 2008

The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) General Chapters Expert Committee revised the General Information Chapter Near-Infrared Spectrophotometry <1119> in 2004 and introduced a USP Near Infrared (NIR) Calibrator Reference Standard (RS), which, in accordance with metrological principles was renamed the USP NIR System Suitability RS. The RS is intended for the qualification of NIR instrument wavelength uncertainty when measurements are taken in diffuse reflectance mode. The USP NIR System Suitability RS is a mixture of three rare earth oxides—dysprosium (Dy2O2), holmium (Ho2O3) and erbium (Er2O3)—plus talc [Mg3Si4O10(OH)2] in a 1: 1: 1: 1 ratio. This System Suitability RS was tested according to metrological principles based on International Organisation for Standardisation guidances during collaborative tests that established its suitability for use and reproducibility. This RS yields eight reference peaks that cover the spectral range between 1000 nm (10,000 cm−1) and 2500 nm (4000 cm−1) and are reported in an accompanying certificate. Analysts thus can use the USP NIR System Suitability RS for performance verification (i.e. to determine instrument wavelength uncertainty) when they operate NIR instruments in diffuse reflectance mode. This paper reviews the characteristics and metrologically informed development of the USP NIR system suitability RS for diffuse reflectance measurements and discusses the suitability of the RS for qualifying NIR instruments operating in the diffuse reflectance mode.
When Size Matters—Near Infrared Reflection Spectroscopy of Nanostructured Materials
Authors: Heigl Nico , Petter Christine H. , Najam-Ul-Haq Mohammad , Rainer Matthias , Vallant Rainer M. , Bonn Günther K. , Huck Christian W.
Published: July 2008

This article evaluates the applicability of near infrared (NIR) reflection spectroscopy for the physico-chemical and morphological characterisation of matter on a scale smaller than 1 micrometre (normally between 1 and 100 nanometres). The investigated materials comprise porous and non-porous silica particles, carbon based materials such as C60 fullerenes, nano-crystalline diamond (NCD) and dendrimers, all of them having diameters and/or pore sizes in the nanometre range, respectively. In case of the silica packings and differently derivatised C60 fullerenes, absorbance signals could be clearly assigned to corresponding surface modifications. Identification or classification of the material can be achieved successfully by principal component analysis. Nano crystalline diamond surfaces, whether H- or O-terminated, could be differentiated by a computed partial least squares (PLS) regression model with around 80% precision. Generations 0–7 of poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers with functionalised surface amine groups are characterised in respect of particle diameter and molecular weight. The established PLS models showed a standard error of prediction of only 0.43 nm and 12.30 kDa, respectively. NIR spectroscopy has developed as a flexible analytical method that can be utilized for fast, reliable and highly reproducible screening of matter even in the nanometer range.
Near Infrared Wavelength Relevance Detection of Ultraviolet Radiation-Induced Erythema
Authors: Alander Jarmo T. , Autere Antti , Kanniainen Olli , Koljonen Janne , Välisuo Petri
Published: July 2008

The acute effects of sun-bathing on the near-infrared absorption spectra of human skin were studied by exposing the shoulders of a male test subject to bright Finnish high summer mid-day sun. The spectra were measured before, immediately after and for several days after exposure. Four different spectral processing and classification methods were applied to the data set to identify differences caused by exposure to the sun. The spectrophotometer and measuring procedure were found to cause some systematic errors, calling for further development, even though they could, to a large extent, be compensated for computationally. Spectral regions indicating ultraviolet radiation-induced erythema were located and the degree of erythema could be predicted correctly but the signal is weak. This paper discusses promising wavelength selection methods to study the dermal effects of exposure to the sun, as well as difficulties and remedies of near infrared spectroscopic measurements of the skin.
Least-Squares Support Vector Machines to Correct Temperature-Induced Spectral Variation in Multivariate Calibration
Authors: Maretto Danilo A. , Mello Cesar , Poppi Ronei J.
Published: July 2008

This paper reports the use of least-squares support vector machines (LS-SVM) for non-linear multivariate calibration in the determination of the alcohol content in the Brazilian spirit “cachaça” using near infrared spectroscopy. Fifty cachaça samples, with alcohol contents in the range of 20.9% to 46.5% v/v were used and the spectra were obtained at five different temperatures: 15°C, 20°C, 25°C, 30°C and 35°C. Two models were proposed: in the first, a single model was built, using the spectra from all five temperatures. In the second, the calibration set was composed of the spectra taken at four temperatures and the validation set was composed of spectra of the other temperature. All the combinations were made. In four of them, LS-SVM produced better predictions than PLS and in the other, the results were the same. These results indicate that LS-SVM can be an alternative when there is an influence of some physical variations, such as temperature, on near-infrared spectra.
Using Calibrations Developed for Fine Milled Meat and Bone Meal on Spectra Measured on Non-Milled Samples
Authors: de la Haba María José , Garrido-Varo Ana , Núñez Nieves , Pérez-Marín Dolores Catalina , Guerrero José Emilio
Published: July 2008

A database of 316 near infrared (NIR) spectral data from finely milled meat and bone meal (MBM) samples were analysed in a Foss NIRSystems 6500 SY-II using the rectangular 1/4 cup. Calibration equations were developed for the prediction of crude protein and ash, two of the parameters used for quality control and payment in commercial MBM meal transactions ( R2CP = 0.96, SECVCP = 1.31; R2ashes = 0.94, SECVashes=0.91). Additionally, the possibility of using calibrations developed with fine milling samples to predict spectra obtained in the same instrument and analysed in the non-milled form, using the rectangular natural cup was examined. Three different standardisation sets were evaluated for optical matching of the samples analysed in the two different modes. The best standardisation matrix was applied to 10 validation samples. The predicted values from standardised spectra of non-milled samples analysed in the large cups and the predicted values from spectra of milled samples gave standard error of differences (SED) for CP (0.74) and ash (0.62) that were similar to, or even lower than, the standard error of prediction (SEP) values for the same milled samples scanned in the rectangular 1/4 cup (1.28 and 1.11, respectively). The study suggests that NIR equations developed for fine milled products analysed using a small window size may be used in the same instrument for the analysis of non-milled products analysed under a larger optical window.
Near Infrared Spectroscopy for Quantification of Animal-Origin Fats in Fat Blends
Authors: Garrido-Varo Ana , Pérez-Marín Dolores , Bautista-Cruz Jara , Guerrero-Ginel José Emilio
Published: July 2008

Animal fats are among the most highly-prized animal by-products in feed manufacture, for both nutritional and commercial reasons. To meet market requirements and legislative demands regarding the use and marketing of animal fats in an efficient, rapid, innovative and low-cost manner requires a major advance in the analytical control of fats and oils. Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has proved to be an ideal candidate for this purpose. This paper reports on the development and evaluation of quantitative NIR chemometric models for predicting the percentage of different animal-origin fats in fat blends. Fat samples (88 for the calibration set and 20 for the validation set) were analysed in a Foss NIRSystems 6500 I spectrophotometer, using folded-transmission gold reflector cups with a pathlength of 0.1 mm. Calibrations were developed using modified partial least squares (MPLS) regression to predict percentages of vegetable oil and animal fat in a fat sample; for both parameters, values for the coefficient of determination (R2) were over 0.99. Excellent results were obtained for the external validation of prediction equations, with R2 v values of 0.99 and standard error of prediction (SEP) values of 1.3%, in both cases. The high degree of precision and accuracy afforded by the NIR equations, which enabled detection of amounts as low as 0.5% animal fat in soy oil, confirm that NIR technology could be used to ensure compliance with current legislation prohibiting the use of animal origin fats.
Near Infrared Spectroscopy for Control of the Compound-Feed Manufacturing Process: Mixing Stage
Authors: Fernández-Ahumada Elvira , Guerrero-Ginel José Emilio , Pérez-Marín Dolores , Garrido-Varo Ana
Published: July 2008

Years of research have demonstrated the ability of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to predict the chemical composition and percentage of included ingredients in intact finished compound feeds. However, before reaching the end product, the mixing stage—where a large number of highly-varied ingredients are mixed together to obtain the desired product—is a critical point in feed manufacture. Detection of errors at this stage is crucial, since the process can still be corrected. This study sought to demonstrate the ability of NIR equations developed for finished compound feeds to be used at the mixing stage and ensure that the product meets specifications for chemical and ingredient labelling. When equations developed with intact compound feeds for prediction of crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), percentage of sunflower meal (SFM) and percentage of soybean meal (SBM) were applied to samples taken at the mixing stage, the results for CP and CF showed that NIR predictions at this stage provide information very similar to that obtained for the final product (CPmixer = 15.65% CPfinal = 15.87%; CFmixer = 7.69% CFfinal = 8.02%). The minor differences observed for the prediction of SFM (%) and SBM (%) at the two stages (SFMmixer = 6.94% SFMfinal = 7.99%; SBMmixer = 11.04% SBMfinal = 9.31%) may be due to the special features of the validation samples used. Although a number of technical and scientific problems remain to be solved, results confirm NIR spectroscopy as a viable tool at the mixing stage. This technique would enable manufacturers to make any corrections required at this point of the process.
New Method Proposed for the Assessment of Lubricant Biodegradability during its Use
Authors: Aranzabe Estíbaliz , Marcaide Arrate , Arnaiz Aitor , Gorritxategi Eneko , Hernaiz Marta
Published: July 2008

During operations using biodegradable oil for lubrication, the chemical structure of the biolubricant changes and, as a consequence, its biodegradability tends to decrease. Despite the fact that the biodegradability of most of the fresh biodegradable oils has been well determined, the monitoring of the biodegradability of oil during its aging has not been studied. Thus, the development of a monitoring method for on-line measuring of lubricant biodegradability could provide a significant advance in lubrication and environmental management. In the present paper, the prediction of the biodegradability of a lubricant by means of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy combined with advanced statistical techniques like PLS is presented. Three fully formulated ester oils and a biodegradable base oil without additives were selected for performing laboratory oxidation in a batch reactor at 140°C using an air flux and aided by mechanical stirring. During the aging process of the oils, 35 aliquots were sampled at different degradation times, in order to build a mathematical model which allowed the biodegradability of oil to be predicted.
Determination of Fatty Acid Composition and Consistency of Raw Pig Fat with near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Müller Martina , Scheeder Martin R.L.
Published: July 2008

For the production of high quality meat products, processors demand firm pig fat. About 20 years ago, Swiss slaughter houses established a titrimetric method to determine the so-called fat score (an index of double bonds in the fat) as a quality control measure. Since 2005, an NIR method has been applied to determine the fat score in two processing plants. The use of toxic solvents and reagents was thus avoided and the work needed considerably reduced. The result, nevertheless, is an unspecific measure of the sum of double bonds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of determining the fatty acid composition more specifically or even to predict fat consistency traits directly in pig fat without extracting the lard. For this purpose a total of 155 samples of pig fat was scratched from the outer layer of the backfat at the slaughter line according to the official fat score method. The collected fat was mixed with a rotor-stator homogeniser, before NIR spectra were recorded. The fatty acid composition was analysed using gas chromatography and the solid fat content was measured by differential scanning calorimetry. The proportion of saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was validated with relative standard errors of prediction (SEP) of 0.9%, 1.6% and 4.7% and coefficients of determination ( r2) of 0.98, 0.88 and 0.96, respectively. The validation of the proportion of very long chain PUFA resulted in a SEP of 7.6% and an r2 of 0.88. The solid fat content (at 10°C and 20°C) was also estimated with sufficient precision and accuracy ( n = 80; SEP=2.9% and 3.2%, r2 = 0.94 and 0.96, respectively). NIR, therefore, provides the potential to establish more specific measures for pig fat quality than the original fat score method.
Removing the Block Effects in Calibration by Means of Dynamic Orthogonal Projection. Application to the Year Effect Correction for Wheat Protein Prediction
Authors: Roger Jean-Michel , Chauchard Fabien , Williams Phil
Published: July 2008

NIR spectroscopic models lack robustness towards the influence of external parameters. Orthogonalisation techniques have demonstrated their ability to improve model robustness with regard to external parameter effects. The dynamic orthogonal projection (DOP) method is applied to the correction of the growing season effect on wheat protein content prediction using NIR spectroscopy. A few reference samples are measured at the beginning of each harvest. For each one, DOP generates an “ideal spectrum” by applying a reference-centred linear kernel on the calibration database. The parasitic sub-space, spanned by the differences between ideal and measured spectra, is then removed from the calibration space, by means of an orthogonal projection. The application database covered eight years of wheat NIR spectra related to protein content. The first four years were used for calibration and the remaining years for testing. The corrections were calculated using the first scanned samples of every year, for each variety [between five and ten samples (four samples per year)]. Results were compared with standard partial least squares calibration models.
Quality Assessment of Mushroom Casing Soil Using Visible and near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Baxter S. Paul , Sharma H.S. Shekhar , Kilpatrick Mairead
Published: July 2008

Casing soil is a crucial component in the production of mushrooms ( Agaricus bisporus) and in the United Kingdom and Ireland it is prepared by neutralising raw peat with lime. The initial peat quality determines many of the physical and chemical properties of the subsequent casing product and this, in turn, significantly impacts on the yield and quality of mushrooms produced. Information on the physical and chemical properties of the casing supplied, in particular those associated with water retention and absorption, is critical to an optimal management strategy. The casing suppliers need a rapid method to evaluate key properties, but the available analytical techniques are slow and laborious, often taking 7–15 days to complete. Raw peat and casing samples were scanned for visible and near infrared (vis-NIR) spectra and the results assessed using principal component analysis. The samples (177) were also analysed for pH, electrical conductivity, moisture content, ash, water absorption, water retention and bulk density. Using partial least squares regression analysis of the spectra and the measured values of the target parameters, calibration equations were generated and cross-validated within the sample set. The equations were then validated using an independent sample set (44) collected from casing suppliers and growers. Early indications show good potential for the prediction of commercially important properties, such as dry matter, ash content, water absorption, water retention and pH. With a turnaround time of minutes, from initial scanning to the presentation of results, vis-NIR spectroscopy affords both the casing suppliers and, ultimately, the growers the opportunity to progress and improve upon current industry standards.
Characterisation and Classification of Italian Virgin Olive Oils by Near- and Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Sinelli Nicolett , Casiraghi Ernestina , Tura Debora , Downey Gerard
Published: July 2008

Virgin olive oil quality is the result of complex interactions between olive variety, environment and cultivar practice. Evaluation of its quality is based on chemical and sensory analyses (ECC Regulation) that are time-consuming, expensive and destructive of the sample. Spectroscopic techniques present significant advantages in terms of speed and cost of analysis per sample. Italian extra virgin olive oils from Lombardy, Tuscany and Calabria were analysed by conventional analytical and spectroscopic methods. The sample set was composed of 60 single-cultivar (Casaliva, Leccino and Frantoio) extra virgin olive oils (monovarietal extra virgin olive oils) and 59 extra virgin olive oils produced from a mixture of cultivars from each geographical area (industrial extra virgin olive oils). Free acid content, peroxide value and spectrophotometric indices ( K232, K270 and Δ K) were measured. Olive oils were also analysed by near infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy in transmission and attenuated total reflectance, respectively, to classify oils on the basis of their geographical origin. Principal component analysis was applied both to chemical and spectral data as an exploratory technique. Classification methods studied were linear discriminant analysis, partial least squares discriminant analysis and soft independent modelling of class analogy (SIMCA). Both FT-NIR and FT-IR allowed sample classification of oils on the basis of geographical origin. NIR spectroscopy was able to classify better the industrial extra virgin olive oils producing a correct classification of about 90% of the samples, while the MIR technique was able to classify both monovarietal and industrial olive oils, allowing a higher correct classification of samples (>95%). SIMCA applied to MIR spectra classified about 70% of samples correctly on the basis of geographical origin.
Rapidly Screening Counterfeit Drugs Using near Infrared Spectroscopy: Combining Qualitative Analysis with Quantitative Analysis to Increase Effectiveness
Authors: Lei Yi , Luo Zhuo-Ya , Hu Chang-Qin
Published: July 2008

Pharmaceutical counterfeiting is becoming a significant issue in the healthcare community as well as for the pharmaceutical industry worldwide. A rapid screening technique such as near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy could aid in the search for and identification of counterfeit drugs. In the present paper, five generic vitamin tablets with different active ingredient content, produced by different manufacturers, were used as examples to test NIR spectroscopy for screening counterfeit products. The results showed that qualitative and quantitative NIR models of the generic drugs can be constructed, despite differences in formulation and physical properties of the tablets from the different manufacturers. In the case of the vitamin tablets, there is a high correlation between the spectra and the active ingredient content of the drug formulations. The differences in the active ingredients are significant enough to discriminate the tablets. Combining qualitative analysis with quantitative analysis further increases the effectiveness of NIR analysis. NIR spectroscopy offers an excellent opportunity for use as a screening technique to detect counterfeit samples.
Are Pixels Sample Cells? Hyperspectral Diffuse near Infrared Imaging Experiments with Pinholes
Authors: Geladi Paul
Published: July 2008

The success of near infrared spectroscopy is based on the penetration of the radiation in solid and turbid inhomogeneous materials, giving diffuse transmission or diffuse reflection. For hyperspectral near infrared imaging where a pixel may be 0.2 mm × 0.2 mm or smaller, the same diffusion processes may give interaction over a number of pixels. Transmission experiments using pinholes show that both objective flare and diffusion of radiation lead to a smearing of information over neighbouring pixels over distances of 0.7 to 2 mm, leading to the conclusion that a pixel in a near-infrared image is not an isolated sample cell.
Process Control in Ultraviolet Curing with in-line near Infrared Reflection Spectroscopy
Authors: Scherzer Tom , Heymann Katja , Mirschel Gabriele , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: July 2008

Near infrared reflection spectroscopy was used for in-line monitoring of the conversion and the coating thickness of thin UV-cured coatings which have a typical thickness in the range of some micrometers only. Quantitative analysis of the spectral data was carried out by PLS-based multivariate calibration methods. In addition, univariate procedures were tested for some applications. The conversion, in particular its dependence on the applied irradiation dose, was followed in both acrylic coatings, which were cross-linked by free radical polymerisation and in epoxy / vinyl ether blends, which were cured according to a cationic reaction mechanism. The thickness of acrylate coatings was studied in a range between 5 μm and 100 μm. It was shown that quantitative data with high precision and time resolution can be also obtained in pilot scale investigations, even if the coating line is operated at high speed.
Measurement of the Glycerol Concentration during the Microbial Treatment of the Wastewater from the Biodiesel Fuel Production Plant Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Kohda Jiro , Ooshita Koji , Nakano Yasuhisa , Yano Takuo
Published: July 2008

Biodiesel fuel (BDF) made from edible oil or its waste is widely used as a renewable and environmentally friendly energy source. The crude BDF produced with alkali catalyst is washed with water to remove a by-product, glycerol. The BDF wastewater discharged from this washing process has to be appropriately treated. The microbial treatment of the BDF wastewater is promising because glycerol is difficult to separate from the BDF wastewater. The addition of some nutrients is essential for the efficient microbial treatment of the BDF wastewater. Measurement of the glycerol concentration in the microbial-treated BDF wastewater is very important because the amount of nutrients which should be added depends on the glycerol concentration. The prediction of the glycerol concentration in the BDF wastewater using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was investigated. Oil degradable yeast and some nutrients were added to the BDF wastewater. The microbial-treated wastewater was used as the source for calibration and validation set samples. Calibration equations relating the NIR spectral data to the glycerol concentration measured with the enzymatic method were obtained. The prediction of the glycerol concentration was successfully carried out using NIR spectroscopy regardless of the presence or absence of the microbial cells. A good result was observed for the calibration equation made with optical data in the presence of the microbial cells at the wavelengths of 2264 nm and 1052 nm. This result suggests that the glycerol concentration in the microbial-treated BDF wastewater can be predicted even in the presence of the microbial cells. The simple, rapid and on-line prediction of the glycerol concentration in the BDF wastewater using NIR spectroscopy will allow more efficient microbial treatment of the BDF wastewater.
The use of mice and rats as animal models for cardiopulmonary resuscitation research
Authors: Papadimitriou D , Xanthos T , Dontas I , Lelovas P , Perrea D
Published: July 2008

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) after the induction of cardiac arrest (CA) has been studied in mice and rats. The anatomical and physiological parameters of the cardiopulmonary system of these two species have been defined during experimental studies and are comparable with those of humans. Moreover, these animal models are more ethical to establish and are easier to manipulate, when compared with larger experimental animals. Accordingly, the effects of successful CPR on the function of vital organs, such as the brain, have been investigated because damage to these vital organs is of concern in CA survivors. Furthermore, the efficacy of several drugs, such as adrenaline (epinephrine), vasopressin and nitroglycerin, has been evaluated for use in CA in these small animal models. The purpose of these studies is not only to increase the rate of survival of CA victims, but also to improve their quality of life by reducing damage to their vital organs after CA and during CPR.
A novel method for transuterine identification of piglets
Authors: Birck M M , Iburg T , Schmidt M , Sangild P T , Hansen A K
Published: July 2008

Implantable microchips provide a secure, permanent and unique identification of individual animals. When performing fetal intervention studies in experimental animal models easy and secure identification of fetuses is desirable, as having test and control groups within the same uterus reduces the total number of animals used in a study. The aims of this study were: (1) to establish a protocol to identify porcine fetuses in utero by microchip implantation and (2) to assess postnatally whether clinical or pathological reactions to the implant occurred. Two Danish Landrace/Danish Large White crossbred sows at day 100 of gestation were used. The sows were sedated with azaperone and induced with propofol intravenously. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane and oxygen. Antibiotics were administered intramuscularly (i.m.) at induction and analgesia was given pre-, intra- and postoperatively. A laparotomy was performed and the uterus exteriorized. The rump of the first fetus was recognized through the uterine wall and the thigh muscle of the fetus was fixed between the thumb and the forefinger. The microchip was then implanted into the fetus at an angle of 45° i.m. in the lateral hindleg using an insertion device with a 12G needle. The same procedure was done in every fetus. The uterus was returned to the abdomen and the abdominal wall closed. The sows gave birth to 24 liveborn piglets and one stillborn. None of the liveborn piglets were limping at the time of birth and no visible cutaneous or palpable reactions on the hindlegs were observed. Following euthanasia, the microchip was easily localized and no macroscopic reactions at the implantation site were seen. None of the piglets had more than one microchip implanted. Histology showed a chronic mild foreign body granulomatous inflammatory response with peripheral eosinophils surrounding the microchip. No inflammation was evident in the adjacent muscles. It is concluded that transuterine identification of piglets two weeks before delivery is feasible using a microchip implant as an effective, easy and reliable method for identification of individuals after birth.
Refinement: promoting the three Rs in practice
Authors: Lloyd M H , Foden B W , Wolfensohn S E
Published: July 2008

Refinement of scientific procedures carried out on protected animals is an iterative process, which begins with a critical evaluation of practice. The process continues with objective assessment of the impact of the procedures, identification of areas for improvement, selection and implementation of an improvement strategy and evaluation of the results to determine whether there has been the desired effect, completing the refinement loop and resulting in the perpetuation of good practice. Refinements may be science-driven (those which facilitate getting high-quality results) or welfare-driven or may encompass both groups, but whatever the driver, refinements almost always result in benefits to both welfare and science. Refinements can be implemented in all aspects of animal use: improved methodology in invasive techniques, housing and husbandry, and even statistical analyses can all benefit animal welfare and scientific quality. If refinement is not actively sought, outdated and unnecessarily invasive techniques may not be replaced by better methods as they become available, and thus outdated information is passed down to the next generation, causing perpetuation of old-fashioned methods. This leads to a spiral of ignorance, leading ultimately to poor practice, poor animal welfare and poor-quality scientific data. Refinement is a legal and ethical requirement, yet refinements may not always be implemented. There are numerous obstacles to the implementation of refinement, which may be real or perceived. Either way, in order to take refinement forward, it is important to coordinate the approach to refinement, validate the science behind refinement, ensure there is adequate education and training in new techniques, improve liaison between users and make sure there is feedback on suitability of refinements for use. Overall, refinement requires a coordinated ongoing process of critical appraisal of practice and active scrutiny of resources for likely improvements. In the busy world of biomedical research, this process needs help. In order to develop these themes further, a workshop was held at the LASA Winter Meeting 2006, UK, to assist in identifying potential obstacles to refinement, and then to explore and develop strategies for overcoming these obstacles in key areas. A range of strategies appropriate to different circumstances was identified, which should facilitate the implementation of refinements.
Persistent changes in arterial blood gases in fetal sheep
Authors: Jonker S S , Anderson D F , Davis L E , Yang Q , Faber J J , Giraud G D
Published: July 2008

Two anaesthetic protocols were compared using pregnant sheep. In both groups of animals, anaesthesia was induced using an intravenous (i.v.) injection of diazepam and ketamine. The ewes were then intubated for positive pressure ventilation using 0.8 L/min of nitrous oxide and 2 L/min oxygen with 1.1–1.8% halothane. If the ewe showed any signs of awakening, one of two protocols was followed. First, the halothane concentration was increased to 2–3% until the ewe was completely anaesthetized. Second, the halothane concentration was not altered, but the ewe was given doses of i.v. diazepam (0.1 mg/kg) and ketamine (1 mg/kg) until again completely anaesthetized. At the completion of surgery, maternal recovery was rapid and similar between the two groups. However, five days after surgery, the fetal arterial Po2 and oxygen content of the fetuses receiving additional halothane (1.9 ± 0.2 kPa and 4.4 ± 1.0 mL/100 mL) were statistically significantly depressed when compared with the fetuses receiving additional diazepam and ketamine (2.9 ± 0.1 kPa and 7.0 ± 0.5 mL/100 mL). These results led us to conclude that certain anaesthetic protocols, in spite of good maternal recovery, can lead to deleterious effects upon the fetus that persist for at least five days after surgery.
Experimental model of membranous nephropathy in mice: sequence of histological and biochemical events
Authors: Wu Chia-Chao , Chen Jin-Shuen , Lin Shih-Hua , Chen Ann , Sytwu Huey-Kang , Lin Yuh-Feng
Published: July 2008

An experimental model of membranous nephropathy (MN) has not been established fully in mice. We characterized the time course of MN in a murine MN model induced by cationic bovine serum albumin (cBSA). Preimmunized mice received cBSA intravenously for six weeks to induce MN and were then sacrificed at different times. Metabolic profiles, renal histopathology, lymphocyte subsets, serum anti-cBSA immunoglobulins (Igs), antibody subclasses and circulating immune complexes (CIC) were evaluated to study the severity and mechanisms of disease initiation and progression. Clinical symptoms of overt proteinuria, hypoalbuminaemia and hypercholesterolaemia were observed from week 4, and typical histological findings of diffuse thickening of the glomerular basement membrane and subepithelial deposition were identified after week 6. Granular fluorescent staining for IgG and complement C3 were observed as early as week 4. Total splenocyte number increased, but the percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ cells did not change as the disease progressed. The predominant isotype of anti-cBSA Igs was IgG1, suggesting a T-helper 2 cell-prone immune response in the development of MN. The strong positive immunofluorescent staining of the immune complex concomitant with higher concentrations of Igs in serum but no significant change in CIC levels before week 4 suggest the involvement of in situ deposition of immune complex in the process of MN. This murine model resembles the clinical and pathological features of human MN and may provide a tool for investigating MN; this model may also have potential applications in gene-knockout or transgenic mouse technologies.
Continual measurement of intramedullary blood perfusion with laser Doppler flowmetry in intact and ostectomized tibiae of rabbits
Authors: Hackenbroich Ch , Wagner S , Windhagen H , Meyer-Lindenberg A
Published: July 2008

Blood flow is important for the healing of bone fractures. Until now, however, there have been no publications on the daily, continual measurement of intramedullary blood perfusion using laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) in the conscious animal. In this study, a model for the daily, continual measurement of intramedullary blood perfusion by LDF and the temperature near the cortex both in intact and ostectomized tibiae in the conscious rabbit is described. The probes for blood perfusion and temperature measurement were implanted permanently at three different localizations into the right tibia of 10 adult New Zealand White rabbits. The probes were held in place by a bilateral, single-plane external fixator. In five of these animals, a midshaft tibial ostectomy was created in order to simulate a fracture. Intramedullary blood perfusion and temperature were measured daily over 49 days.

While in intact tibiae no significant ( P > 0.05) differences were found in blood perfusion readings taken at various time points, for mean values or for blood perfusion over time, in ostectomized tibiae the differences were significant: various time points ( P = 0.0056), mean values ( P = 0.0034) and blood perfusion over time ( P = 0.0337). Blood perfusion readings at the centre probe were elevated compared with those at the proximal and distal probes.

Thus, a revascularization in the ostectomy gap during the fracture healing was proven by means of the LDF. No influence of the blood perfusion on the temperature in the ostectomy area could be determined during healing of the ostectomy. The described model seems suitable for the continual measurement of intramedullary blood perfusion both in intact and ostectomized tibiae in the conscious rabbit.
In vivo magnetic resonance imaging of animal models of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Wang Yi-Xiang
Published: July 2008

Recent technical developments in high-field magnetic resonance (MR) scanners, improvement in radio frequency coil design and gradient performance along with the development of efficient pulse sequences and new methods of enhancing contrast have made high-quality imaging of animal arthritis models feasible. MR can provide high-resolution structural information about the osteoarthritic changes in animal models, and also information about the biophysical properties of cartilage. This paper reviews the MR techniques available for animal knee imaging, and the various MR-derived readouts of knee osteoarthritis in animal models. Pitfalls in interpreting animal joint anatomy and joint composition are highlighted.
Men's preferences for women's profile waist‐to‐hip ratio, breast size, and ethnic group in Britain and South Africa
Authors: Swami Viren , Jones John , Einon Dorothy , Furnham Adrian
Published: July 2008

One particular aspect of the literature on preferences for female body shapes has focused on the purported universality of preferences for a low waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR), despite substantial evidence of cross‐cultural variability in such preferences. In the present study, we examined the effects of manipulating women's profile WHR, breast size, and ethnicity on men's ratings of physical attractiveness and health. A total of 51 African men in South Africa, 56 British Africans, and 114 British Caucasians rated 12 line drawings that varied in two levels of ethnicity, three levels of WHR, and two levels of breast size. Overall, the results suggested that there were cross‐cultural differences in preferred body shape, with the preferred body configuration varying as a function of the ethnicity of the figure being rated. In addition, there was a strong positive correlation between ratings of attractiveness and health. These findings are discussed in relation to the interplay between culture and evolution in determining ideals of attractiveness.
An investigation of the impact of young children's self‐knowledge of trustworthiness on school adjustment: A test of the realistic self‐knowledge and positive illusion models
Authors: Betts Lucy R. , Rotenberg Ken J. , Trueman Mark
Published: July 2008

The study aimed to examine the relationship between self‐knowledge of trustworthiness and young children's school adjustment. One hundred and seventy‐three (84 male and 89 female) children from school years 1 and 2 in the United Kingdom (mean age 6 years 2 months) were tested twice over 1‐year. Children's trustworthiness was assessed using: (a) self‐report at Time 1 and Time 2; (b) peers' reports at Time 1 and Time 2; and (c) teacher‐reports at Time 2. School adjustment was assessed by child‐rated school‐liking and the Short‐Form Teacher Rating Scale of School Adjustment (Short‐Form TRSSA). Longitudinal quadratic relationships were found between school adjustment and children's self‐knowledge, using peer‐reported trustworthiness as a reference: more accurate self‐knowledge of trustworthiness predicted increases in school adjustment. Comparable concurrent quadratic relationships were found between teacher‐rated school adjustment and children's self‐knowledge, using teacher‐reported trustworthiness as a reference, at Time 2. The findings support the conclusion that young children's psychosocial adjustment is best accounted for by the realistic self‐knowledge model (Colvin & Block, 1994).
Das NS-Regime und die Überwindung der Weltwirtschaftskrise in Deutschland
Authors: Buchheim Christoph
Published: July 2008

Vorspann

Die Legende ist zählebig. Hitler, so lautet sie, habe nach der Machtergreifung sofort energische Maßnahmen ergriffen, um die Arbeitslosigkeit zu bekämpfen, und damit binnen kurzem beachtliche Erfolge erzielt. Christoph Buchheim, einer der renommiertesten deutschen Wirtschaftshistoriker, widerlegt diese apologetische Sicht: Die Konjunktur sprang bereits vor dem 30. Januar an, außerdem griffen die von den Vorgängerregierungen eingeleiteten rbeitsbeschaffungsprogramme, während die Regierung Hitler viel zu spät und viel zu halbherzig tätig wurde, um den Aufschwung in nennenswertem Maße beeinflussen zu können. Schließlich räumt Buchheim auch mit der Vorstellung auf, der Arbeiterschaft sei es nach 1933 rasch besser ergangen. Noch 1938 war beim Nettolohn das Niveau von 1928 nicht erreicht.
Kuriergepäck und Pistolen. Neue Quellen zu den Attentatsplänen in der Heeresgruppe Mitte im März 1943
Authors: Ringshausen Gerhard
Published: July 2008

Vorspann

Über die beiden Attentatsversuche auf Hitler, die im März 1943 stattfinden sollten, ist viel spekuliert worden. Denn bislang basierte unser Wissen nur auf den Angaben der wenigen überlebenden Zeitzeugen. Mit seiner akribischen Rekonstruktion, in die erstmals zeitgenössische Quellen einbezogen wurden, kann Gerhard Ringshausen nun nachweisen, dass damals die Offiziersfronde im Stab der Heeresgruppe tatsächlich zum Sturz ihres Obersten Kriegsherrn bereit war.
Der Bundesadler
Authors: Hartmann Jürgen
Published: July 2008

Vorspann

Den Bundesadler kennt jedes Kind – seine Geschichte kennt kaum jemand. Wie aber kam es zu dieser heraldischen Selbstdarstellung der Bundesrepublik und warum existieren so viele Varianten des Bundesadlers? Jürgen Hartmann präsentiert ein Wappentier, dessen Entwicklung vielen Aspekten Rechnung zu tragen hatte – politischen, juristischen, gesellschaftlichen und nicht zuletzt auch ästhetischen.