bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficial changes in energy expenditure and lipid profile after eccentric exercise in overweight and lean women
Authors: Paschalis V. , Nikolaidis M. G. , Giakas G. , Theodorou A. A. , Sakellariou G. K. , Fatouros I. G. , Koutedakis Y. , Jamurtas A. Z.
Published: January 2010

The aim was to compare lean and overweight females in regard to the effects of eccentric exercise on muscle damage indices, resting energy expenditure (REE) and respiratory quotient (RQ) as well as blood lipid and lipoprotein profile. Lean and overweight females (deviated by their body mass index) performed an eccentric exercise session. Muscle damage, energy cost and lipid profile were assessed pre‐exercise and up to 72 h post‐exercise. After eccentric exercise (i) muscle damage indices were affected more in the overweight subjects compared with the lean subjects; (ii) the elevation of absolute and relative REE was larger and more prolonged in the overweight group compared with the lean group; (iii) after 24 h, RQ had significantly declined, with the overweight subjects exhibiting a larger reduction compared with the lean group; and (iv) the blood lipid profile was favorably modified, with the overweight group exhibiting more favorable responses compared with the lean group. The differences between the lean and the overweight subjects may be partly due to the fact that overweight individuals experienced greater muscle damage than lean individuals. Eccentric exercise may be a promising lifestyle factor to combat obesity and dyslipidemias.
Cardiovascular risk factor clustering and its association with fitness in nine‐year‐old rural Norwegian children
Authors: Resaland G. K. , Mamen A. , Boreham C. , Anderssen S. A. , Andersen L. B.
Published: January 2010

This paper describes cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor levels in a population‐representative sample of healthy, rural Norwegian children and examines the association between fitness and clustering of CVD risk factors. Final analyses included 111 boys and 116 girls (mean age 9.3 ± 0.3). To determine the degree of clustering, six CVD risk factors were selected: homeostasis model assessment score, waist circumference, triglycerides, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol to high‐density lipoprotein ratio and fitness (VO2peak). Clustering was observed in 9.9% of the boys and 13.8% of the girls. In a different analysis, fitness was omitted as a CVD risk factor and analyzed against the five remaining CVD risk factors. Low fitness was a strong predictor for clustering of CVD risk factors, and children in the least‐fit quartile had significantly poorer CVD risk factor values than all of those in the other quartiles. Finally, subjects were cross‐tabulated into different fat–fit groups. For both sexes, the unfit and overweight/obese group had a significantly higher CVD risk factor score than the fit and normal weight group. Clustering of CVD risk factors was present in this group of rural children. Low fitness, and low fitness and high fatness combined, were highly associated with a clustered CVD risk.
Regular stretch does not increase muscle extensibility: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ben M. , Harvey L. A
Published: January 2010

The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to determine whether regular stretch increases hamstring muscle extensibility. Sixty healthy individuals were randomly allocated to an experimental or a control group. The experimental group attended supervised stretch sessions where they stretched the hamstring muscles of a randomly allocated leg for 30 min five times a week for 6 weeks. The control group did not attend any stretch sessions during this period. No participants withdrew from the study. A purpose built device was used to measure passive hip flexion during a straight leg‐raise manoeuvre with the application of a standardized and non‐standardized stretch torque. The stretch intervention did not increase passive hip flexion when measured with a standardized stretch torque [mean treatment effect=−1°; 95% confidence interval (CI)=−3 to 2°]. It did, however, increase passive hip flexion when measured without a standardized stretch torque (mean treatment effect=10°, 95% CI=6–14°). Six weeks of sustained 30‐min daily stretch does not increase the extensibility of the hamstring muscle of healthy individuals. It does, however, improve stretch tolerance leading to increased joint range of motion without any actual improvements in muscle extensibility.
Changes in cardiorespiratory function in different groups of former and still active male cross‐country skiers: a 28–30‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Grimsmo J , Arnesen H , Mæhlum S
Published: January 2010

The aim of the study was to assess longitudinal changes in cardiorespiratory function in different groups of current or former endurance trained male cross‐country skiers. Three different age groups (n=122) took part in a similar study in 1976. Of 86 men still alive 78 responded (90.7%). Thirty‐two from group I (age 58.7 ± 2.3) and 36 from group II (age 74.5 ± 2.5) participated in a maximum exercise test. We found significant difference in decline in VO2max between age groups (%/decade: 6.7 ± 3.6 vs 13.9 ± 3.2; P=0.0001 and in L/min/decade: 0.32 ± 0.18 vs 0.53 ± 0.14; P=0.0001). Men in group I (but only a tendency in group II) who were still competing and reported unchanged training patterns had a significant attenuated decline in VO2max (%/decade: 4.1 ± 3.7 vs 8.1 ± 2.8; P=0.003 and L/min: 0.19 ± 0.0.17 vs 0.39 ± 0.15; P=0.004). This study shows that lifelong endurance training does not stop the decline in VO2max with ageing, but vigorous training is important to attenuate the decline.
Does the polygenic profile determine the potential for becoming a world‐class athlete? Insights from the sport of rowing
Authors: Santiago C. , Ruiz J. R. , Muniesa C. A. , González‐Freire M. , Gómez‐Gallego F. , Lucia A.
Published: January 2010

We determined whether the polygenic profile computed with seven candidate polymorphisms (i.e., ACE, ACTN3, AMPD1, CKMM, HFE, GDF‐8 and PPARGC1A) for endurance performance is different in 39 world‐class and 15 national‐class Spanish (Caucasian) lightweight rowers. The second purpose was to examine the impact of possessing a “preferable” polygenic profile on the sport success in terms of the number of medals won in World and National Championships. Finally, we also compared the polygenic profile of world‐ and national‐class Spanish rowers with that of the general Spanish population. The polygenic profile did not differ between groups of rowers. We did not observe an association between having a preferable polygenic profile and medals won in World and National Championships. Finally, we observed that rowers tend to have a more “favorable” polygenic profile than the general Spanish population. These findings argue against the idea that genetic endowment differentiates athletic champions from elite, yet less accomplished athletes. In contrast, we cannot discard the fact that, overall, elite athletes are endowed with a more “favorable” polygenic profile than the general population.
Basic concepts about genes, inactivity and aging
Authors: Booth F. W. , Zwetsloot K. A.
Published: January 2010

Remarkably, 80‐year‐old humans who have partaken in lifelong aerobic or strength training have maximal aerobic capacities or muscle strengths comparable with that of sedentary individuals aged 50 or 55‐year‐old, respectively. Such delays in functional aging are clinically significant because lower aerobic and lower strength capacities increase the risk of premature death. In this short review, we speculate that the lack of daily physical activity induces evolutionarily selected mechanisms to use or lose, one of which is related to nutritional status.
REVIEW ARTICLE: RCAS1, MT, and Vimentin as Potential Markers of Tumor Microenvironment Remodeling
Authors: Dutsch‐Wicherek Magdalena
Published: January 2010

Citation Dutsch‐Wicherek M. RCAS1, MT, and vimentin as potential markers of tumor microenvironment remodeling. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63: 181–188

A tumor stimulates the remodeling of its microenvironment for its own survival. To protect its own growth and induce angiogenesis, the tumor changes the structure of extracellular matrix and the function of existing cells; it thus chemo‐attracts immune system cells altering their function. In our study, we discuss the potential markers of tumor microenvironment remodeling. For instance, RCAS1 is a protein responsible for tumor escape from host immunologic surveillance that additionally seems to be involved in the remodeling of the microenvironment. Another protein, metallothionein, which is both anti‐apoptotic and pro‐proliferative, is also responsible for modulating the response of immune system cells. Most likely, the expression of this protein by the fibroblasts of tumor microenvironment is related to the remodeled phenotype of these cells because of the tumor influence on cancer‐associated fibroblasts. Lastly, vimentin is a protein that would appear to be the marker for the mesenchymal transition of cells from the epithelial phenotype. These cells seem to acquire the mesenchymal phenotype to migrate so that they can facilitate the development of metastases. Interestingly, the expression of vimentin has also been observed in the tumor microenvironment as well and may serve as a marker of a remodeled stroma in the process of facilitating tumor spread.
Comparison of ampicillin plus gentamicin vs. penicillin plus gentamicin in empiric treatment of neonates at risk of early onset sepsis
Authors: Metsvaht T , Ilmoja M‐L , Parm Ü , Maipuu L , Merila M , Lutsar I
Published: January 2010

Aim:  We aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of ampicillin (AMP) vs. penicillin (PEN) both combined with gentamicin in the empirical treatment of neonates at risk of early onset neonatal sepsis (EOS).

Methods:  We performed an open label cluster randomized equivalence study in both Estonian neonatal intensive care units, including neonates with suspected EOS, aged less than 72 h. Primary end‐point was clinical failure rate, expressed by need for change of antibiotic regimen within 72 h and/or 7‐day all cause mortality. Bowel colonization was followed with biweekly perineal swab cultures.

Results:  Incidence of proven EOS was 4.9%. Among neonates receiving AMP (n = 142) or PEN (n = 141) change of antibiotic regimen within 72 h (10/142 vs. 10/141; OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.40–2.59), 7‐day mortality (11/142 vs. 14/141; OR 0.76; 95% CI 0.33–1.75) and over‐all treatment failure (20/142 vs. 20/141; OR 1.01; 95% CI 0.52–1.97) occurred at similar rates. The only differences in gut colonization were lower number of patients colonised with enterococci, S. aureus and AMP resistant Acinetobacter spp. in AMP and lower number of those with S. haemolyticus and S. hominis in PEN arm.

Conclusions:  AMP and PEN combined with gentamicin have similar effectiveness in the empiric treatment of suspected neonatal EOS.
How Does the Gender of Parents Matter?
Authors: Biblarz Timothy J. , Stacey Judith
Published: January 2010

Claims that children need both a mother and father presume that women and men parent differently in ways crucial to development but generally rely on studies that conflate gender with other family structure variables. We analyze findings from studies with designs that mitigate these problems by comparing 2‐parent families with same or different sex coparents and single‐mother with single‐father families. Strengths typically associated with married mother‐father families appear to the same extent in families with 2 mothers and potentially in those with 2 fathers. Average differences favor women over men, but parenting skills are not dichotomous or exclusive. The gender of parents correlates in novel ways with parent‐child relationships but has minor significance for children's psychological adjustment and social success.
Family and Household Formations and Suicide in the United States
Authors: Denney Justin T.
Published: January 2010

Family support systems have been theoretically linked to suicide risk. But no research to date has investigated the effects of detailed living arrangements on individual risk of suicide. Using data on 825,462 adults from the National Health Interview Survey Linked Mortality File reveals that living in families with stronger sources of social support and integration decreases risk of suicide. These effects persist despite controls for important individual level characteristics. Risk of suicide decreases for persons in married as well as unmarried families when children are present and risk increases for persons living with unrelated adults. These results reveal the structural importance of family formation on the social integrative forces that contribute to an individual's risk of suicide.
Thermosynechoccus elongatus DpsA binds Zn(II) at a unique three histidine‐containing ferroxidase center and utilizes O2 as iron oxidant with very high efficiency, unlike the typical Dps proteins
Authors: Alaleona Flaminia , Franceschini Stefano , Ceci Pierpaolo , Ilari Andrea , Chiancone Emilia
Published: January 2010

The cyanobacterium Thermosynechococcus elongatus is one the few bacteria to possess two Dps proteins, DpsA‐Te and Dps‐Te. The present characterization of DpsA‐Te reveals unusual structural and functional features that differentiate it from Dps‐Te and the other known Dps proteins. Notably, two Zn(II) are bound at the ferroxidase center, owing to the unique substitution of a metal ligand at the A‐site (His78 in place of the canonical aspartate) and to the presence of a histidine (His164) in place of a hydrophobic residue at a metal‐coordinating distance in the B‐site. Only the latter Zn(II) is displaced by incoming iron, such that Zn(II)–Fe(III) complexes are formed upon oxidation, as indicated by absorbance and atomic emission spectroscopy data. In contrast to the typical behavior of Dps proteins, where Fe(II) oxidation by H2O2 is about 100‐fold faster than by O2, in DpsA‐Te the ferroxidation efficiency of O2 is very high and resembles that of H2O2. Oxygraphic experiments show that two Fe(II) are required to reduce O2, and that H2O2 is not released into solution at the end of the reaction. On this basis, a reaction mechanism is proposed that also takes into account the formation of Zn(II)–Fe(III) complexes. The physiological significance of the DpsA‐Te behavior is discussed in the framework of a possible localization of the protein at the thylakoid membranes, where photosynthesis takes place, with the consequent increased formation of reactive oxygen species.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7312099: DpsA (uniprotkb:Q8DL82) and DpsA (uniprotkb:Q8DL82) bind (MI:0407) by x‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
Targeting mechanism of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor by a prototypical viral oncoprotein
Authors: Chemes Lucía B. , Sánchez Ignacio E. , Smal Clara , de Prat‐Gay Gonzalo
Published: January 2010

DNA tumor viruses ensure genome amplification by hijacking the cellular replication machinery and forcing infected cells to enter the S phase. The retinoblastoma (Rb) protein controls the G1/S checkpoint, and is targeted by several viral oncoproteins, among these the E7 protein from human papillomaviruses (HPVs). A quantitative investigation of the interaction mechanism between the HPV16 E7 protein and the RbAB domain in solution revealed that 90% of the binding energy is determined by the LxCxE motif, with an additional binding determinant (1.0 kcal·mol−1) located in the C‐terminal domain of E7, establishing a dual‐contact mode. The stoichiometry and subnanomolar affinity of E7 indicated that it can bind RbAB as a monomer. The low‐risk HPV11 E7 protein bound 2.0 kcal·mol−1 more weakly than the high‐risk HPV16 and HPV18 type counterparts, but the modularity and binding mode were conserved. Phosphorylation at a conserved casein kinase II site in the natively unfolded N‐terminal domain of E7 affected the local conformation by increasing the polyproline II content and stabilizing an extended conformation, which allowed for a tighter interaction with the Rb protein. Thus, the E7–RbAB interaction involves multiple motifs within the N‐terminal domain of E7 and at least two conserved interaction surfaces in RbAB. We discussed a mechanistic model of the interaction of the Rb protein with a viral target in solution, integrated with structural data and the analysis of other cellular and viral proteins, which provided information about the balance of interactions involving the Rb protein and how these determine the progression into either the normal cell cycle or transformation.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7383794, MINT‐7383812, MINT‐7383830, MINT‐7383868, MINT‐7383891, MINT‐7384056: E7 (uniprotkb:P03129) and Rb (uniprotkb:P06400) bind (MI:0407) by fluorescence technologies (MI:0051)

MINT‐7383923: E7 (uniprotkb:P04020) and Rb (uniprotkb:P06400) bind (MI:0407) by competition binding (MI:0405)

MINT‐7383777, MINT‐7384078, MINT‐7383848, MINT‐7384113, MINT‐7384096: Rb (uniprotkb:P06400) and E7 (uniprotkb:P03129) bind (MI:0407) by competition binding (MI:0405)

MINT‐7383963: Rb (uniprotkb:P06400) and E7 (uniprotkb:P06788) bind (MI:0407) by competition binding (MI:0405)

MINT‐7384022, MINT‐7384040: E7 (uniprotkb:P03129) and Rb (uniprotkb:P06400) bind (MI:0407) by comigration in non denaturing gel electrophoresis (MI:0404)

MINT‐7384004, MINT‐7383984: Rb (uniprotkb:P06400) binds (MI:0407) to E7 (uniprotkb:P03129) by pull down (MI:0096)
Plasma Exchange in Elderly Patients
Authors: Basic‐Jukic Nikolina , Brunetta Bruna , Kes Petar
Published: January 2010

Plasma exchange (PE) is an extracorporeal blood purification technique designed for the removal of large molecular weight substances from plasma. Data regarding the use of PE in elderly patients is lacking, so this study analyzes the database of the Department of Dialysis at the University Hospital Center Zagreb (634 patients, 6237 procedures) for indications and complications in patients aged 65 years or older who were submitted to PE during the period from 1982 to 2007. A total of 50 patients in this age group were submitted to PE; their median age was 69 years (range 65–83). This population underwent 323 episodes of PE, mostly with albumin solution as the replacement fluid (94.0%), and blood access was usually via peripheral veins (72.0%). The most common indication for therapy (76.0%) was neurological (e.g. myasthenia gravis and Guillain–Barré syndrome), which was more common than in the entire population (i.e. of all age groups) (60%). The second most common indications were hematological diseases, followed by intoxications and Goodpasture's syndrome. Ninety‐four percent of patients showed improvement, two patients with Guillain–Barré syndrome died, and a patient with pemphigus vulgaris had no change in clinical status, compared with 75% of younger patients whose status improved after PE. Complications occurred during 11.5% of treatments, compared to 3.9% in the younger group. The most common complications were clotting (3.7%), blood access difficulties (1.5%), mild‐to‐moderate allergic reactions (1.5%), and precordial oppression (0.6%). Plasma exchange is rarely used in the elderly population; however, when carried out by experienced staff, it is a safe and efficient method that may significantly improve the outcome of elderly patients with appropriate indications.
Treatment of Steroid Unresponsive Relapse With Plasma Exchange in Aggressive Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Habek Mario , Barun Barbara , Puretić Zvonimir , Brinar Vesna V
Published: January 2010

The options for treating steroid unresponsive relapses in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) are modest. We present a small series of patients with an aggressive course of RRMS whose steroid unresponsive relapses were treated with plasma exchange. In the period from January 2007 until February 2009 we identified four patients with steroid unresponsive relapses. All recorded relapses were treated with methylprednisolone, either with 500 mg for 5 days or 1000 mg for 3 days. If there was no improvement, patients were given five cycles of plasma exchange. If there was no recovery after the initial five cycles, five more were administered. Each patient's clinical status was monitored using the extended disability status scale. The median time from symptom onset until starting plasma exchange was 30 days (23–45 days). For four relapses, five cycles of plasma exchange were given with marked recovery in one, moderate in two, and mild in one case. In one patient, after five cycles there was no recovery, so five more cycles were administered, after which a moderate recovery ensued. This study further supports the efficacy of plasma exchange in the treatment of steroid unresponsive relapses in aggressive RRMS.
Low‐Density Lipoprotein Apheresis by Membrane Differential Filtration (Cascade Filtration) via Arteriovenous Fistula Performed in Children With Familial Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Gülle Saniye , Bak Mustafa , Serdaroglu Erkin , Can Demet , Karabay Ozalp
Published: January 2010

Membrane differential filtration (cascade filtration) is an apheresis technique by which atherogenic lipoproteins can be eliminated from plasma on the basis of particle size. In this study, we aim to discuss the efficacy of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) apheresis performed by providing alternative vascular routes in two siblings with familial hypercholesterolemia who did not respond to medical treatment and diet. Of the two siblings, one was nine years old and the other one was three‐and‐a‐half years old. Of the total of 78 apheresis processes performed, 24 were done via a permanent subclavian catheter, 36 were done via a subsequently provided arteriovenous fistula, and 18 were done via an arteriovenous graft. We observed a mean reduction in the plasma levels of total cholesterol (61.6%), LDL cholesterol (65.5%), and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (38.6%). We noted that cascade filtration apheresis was effective in decreasing the LDL cholesterol in plasma, and no serious complications were noted. The success of the apheresis program depends on well‐functioning blood access. An arteriovenous fistula may be the best route for the long‐term treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia, which requires complication‐free apheresis treatments.
Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Hemodialysis Patients With Isolated Hepatitis B Core Antibody: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Aghakhani Arezoo , Banifazl Mohammad , Kalantar Ebrahim , Eslamifar Ali , Ahmadi Farrokhlagha , Razeghi Effat , Atabak Shahnaz , Amini Manouchehr , Khadem‐Sadegh Akbar , Ramezani Amitis
Published: January 2010

Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is characterized by presence of HBV infection with undetectable hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Occult HBV infection harbors potential risk of HBV transmission through hemodialysis (HD). The aim of this study was to assess the occult HBV infection in hemodialysis patients with isolated hepatitis B core antibody (anti‐HBc). A total of 289 HD patients from five dialysis units in Tehran, Iran, were included in this study. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti‐HBs), anti‐HBc, Hepatitis C antibody (anti‐HCV), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were tested in all subjects. The presence of HBV‐DNA was determined quantitatively in plasma samples of HD patients with isolated anti‐HBc (HBsAg negative, anti‐HBs negative and anti‐HBc positive) by real‐time PCR using the artus HBV RG PCR kit on the Rotor‐Gene 3000 real‐time thermal cycler. Of 289 patients enrolled in this study, 18 subjects (6.2%, 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.5%–8.9%) had isolated anti‐HBc. HBV‐DNA was detectable in 9 of 18 patients (50%, 95% CI, 27%–73%) who had isolated anti‐HBc. Plasma HBV‐DNA load was less than 50 IU/ml in all of these patients. Our study showed that detection of isolated anti‐HBc could reflect unrecognized occult HBV infection in HD patients. The majority of these infections are associated with low viral loads.
New Regionalism and Planning for Water Quality Improvement in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Authors: PETERSON ANN , WALKER MICHELLE , MAHER MARY , HOVERMAN SUZANNE , EBERHARD RACHEL
Published: January 2010

New regionalism encompasses a diversity of approaches to address regional planning problems. Within Australia, the Great Barrier Reef Water Quality Protection Plan was developed to enhance water quality within the World Heritage‐listed Great Barrier Reef, and the plan gave responsibility to regional, natural resource management bodies to undertake several actions. This paper evaluates these initiatives in the light of the emerging theory of new regionalism and highlights six main lessons: up‐scaling of the catchment approach to a reef‐wide approach is essential in order to improve water quality, but must be complemented by cross‐regional collaboration; new governance and institutional arrangements and strengthened partnerships must be effectively integrated; culture and history are important in determining the most effective management approaches; pilot projects must move to comprehensive and strategic implementation; science is important but needs to incorporate other branches of knowledge; and economic incentives are important in encouraging the implementation of best practices, but delivery needs to be flexible. We conclude that the new regional approach is appropriate for addressing complex, multi‐scale problems such as water quality, and has incorporated several key principles of new regionalism, but that the process must move quickly to a higher level of commitment and application.
Factors Controlling the Regional Distribution of Vanadium in Groundwater
Authors: Wright Michael T. , Belitz Kenneth
Published: January 2010

Although the ingestion of vanadium (V) in drinking water may have possible adverse health effects, there have been relatively few studies of V in groundwater. Given the importance of groundwater as a source of drinking water in many areas of the world, this study examines the potential sources and geochemical processes that control the distribution of V in groundwater on a regional scale. Potential sources of V to groundwater include dissolution of V rich rocks, and waste streams from industrial processes. Geochemical processes such as adsorption/desorption, precipitation/dissolution, and chemical transformations control V concentrations in groundwater. Based on thermodynamic data and laboratory studies, V concentrations are expected to be highest in samples collected from oxic and alkaline groundwater. However, the extent to which thermodynamic data and laboratory results apply to the actual distribution of V in groundwater is not well understood. More than 8400 groundwater samples collected in California were used in this study. Of these samples, high (≥50 µg/L) and moderate (25 to 49 µg/L) V concentrations were most frequently detected in regions where both source rock and favorable geochemical conditions occurred. The distribution of V concentrations in groundwater samples suggests that significant sources of V are mafic and andesitic rock. Anthropogenic activities do not appear to be a significant contributor of V to groundwater in this study. High V concentrations in groundwater samples analyzed in this study were almost always associated with oxic and alkaline groundwater conditions, which is consistent with predictions based on thermodynamic data.
Fully Automated Objective‐Based Method for Master Recession Curve Separation
Authors: Posavec Kristijan , Parlov Jelena , Nakić Zoran
Published: January 2010

The fully automated objective‐based method for master recession curve (MRC) separation was developed by using Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) code. The core of the program code is used to construct an MRC by using the adapted matching strip method (Posavec et al. 2006). Criteria for separating the MRC into two or three segments are determined from the flow‐duration curve and are represented as the probable range of percent of flow rate duration. Successive separations are performed automatically on two and three MRCs using sets of percent of flow rate duration from selected ranges and an optimal separation model scenario, having the highest average coefficient of determination R2, is selected as the most appropriate one. The resulting separated master recession curves are presented graphically, whereas the statistics are presented numerically, all in separate sheets. Examples of field data obtained from two springs in Istria, Croatia, are used to illustrate its application. The freely available Excel spreadsheet and VBA program ensures the ease of use and applicability for larger data sets.
In this issue – January/February 2010
Authors: Jackson AE
Published: January 2010

Septic osteomyelitis in foals · Partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide during general anaesthesia in horses · Mastocytoma in digital flexor tendons of a horse · Immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia in dogs · Spotted fever group rickettsial antibodies in cats and dogs in Tasmania · Consequences of false‐positive results for Chlamydophila abortus in Australian sheep for the rejection of breeder sheep for export · Femoral diaphysis fractures in cattle · Haemolytic anaemia in cattle in New South Wales associated with Theileria infections · Stimulation test for determining the steroidogenic capacity of the parrot testis · Seminoma in a black rhinoceros
Using a GnRH agonist to obtain an index of testosterone secretory capacity in the cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) and sulphur‐crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita)
Authors: Lovas EM , Johnston SD , Filippich LJ
Published: January 2010

Objective  Validation of a stimulation test for determining the steroidogenic capacity of the parrot testis. The major aim was to characterise testosterone secretion after injection of a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa), then use the test to investigate seasonal reproduction in the male cockatiel.

Procedure  A synthetic GnRHa (buserelin; 8.0 µg of peptide/kg bodyweight) was injected IM into male cockatiels (n = 7) and sulphur‐crested cockatoos (n = 3) and serial blood samples collected at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 min after administration. Once validated, the technique was subsequently used to examine seasonal changes (23 months) in the testosterone profile of a captive cockatiel population.

Results  Injection of buserelin resulted in a significant increase in the testosterone concentration of cockatiel plasma, with maximal concentrations occurring at approximately 60 (1.33 ± 0.08 ng/mL) to 90 min (1.22 ± 0.08 ng/mL) after injection. Although no clear pattern of seasonal variation in testosterone secretion was detected in cockatiel plasma, samples taken 60 and 90 min after administration showed a significant increase in all seasons. Injection of buserelin in the sulphur‐crested cockatoo also resulted in increased testosterone secretion, with maximal concentrations obtained after 90 min.

Conclusion  Buserelin can be used to obtain a reliable index of the prevailing testosterone capacity of the cockatiel and cockatoo testis. With further studies, this test may be incorporated into clinical assessment of reproductive status.
Partnership dissolution with interdependent values
Authors: Jehiel Philippe , Pauzner Ady
Published: January 2010

We study partnership dissolution when valuations are interdependent and only one party is informed. In contrast with the case of private values (Cramton, Gibbons, and Klemperer, 1987), in which efficient trade is feasible whenever initial shares are about equal, there exists a wide class of situations in which full efficiency cannot be reached. In these cases, (i) the subsidy required to restore the first best is minimal when the entire ownership is allocated initially to one of the parties, and (ii) ruling out external subsidies, the second‐best welfare is maximized when one of the parties initially has full ownership.
Partial cross ownership and tacit collusion
Authors: Gilo David , Moshe Yossi , Spiegel Yossi
Published: January 2010

We examine the effects that passive investments in rival firms have on the incentives of firms to engage in tacit collusion. In general, these incentives depend in a complex way on the entire partial cross ownership (PCO) structure in the industry. We establish necessary and sufficient conditions for PCO arrangements to facilitate tacit collusion and also examine how tacit collusion is affected when firms' controllers make direct passive investments in rival firms.
Incentives, wages, and promotions: theory and evidence
Authors: Kwon Illoong
Published: January 2010

I study an incentive problem that has been largely ignored in the agency literature: incentives for repeated (human capital) investment. The optimal contract is very simple but still provides rich implications for incentive and wage structures in large organizations. The empirical evidence is presented using personnel records of health insurance claim processors in a large U.S. insurance company. These processors are white‐collar, nonmanagerial, female, service industry workers—a rapidly growing but rarely studied labor group. The empirical findings are consistent with the main features of the optimal contract.
Damaged durable goods
Authors: Hahn Jong‐Hee
Published: January 2010

I analyze a durable‐goods monopolist's incentives to introduce a damaged good (a stripped‐down version of the original good) in an infinite‐horizon framework. The damaged good helps the monopolist to mitigate the Coasian time‐inconsistency problem. However, it may lead to a welfare reduction: low‐valuation buyers are induced to purchase the low‐quality damaged good early rather than buy the high‐quality original good later, and when the players are patient the surplus loss from quality reduction outweighs the gain from earlier consumptions. This welfare result contrasts with the previous literature based on a static framework.
Field experiments on the effects of reserve prices in auctions: more Magic on the Internet
Authors: Reiley David H.
Published: January 2010

I present experimental evidence on the effects of minimum bids in first‐price, sealed‐bid auctions. The auction experiments manipulated the minimum bids in a preexisting market on the Internet for collectible trading cards from the game Magic: the Gathering. I examine a number of outcomes, including the number of participating bidders, the probability of sale, the levels of individual bids, and the auctioneer's revenues. The benchmark theoretical model is one with symmetric, risk‐neutral bidders with independent private values. The results verify a number of the predictions concerning equilibrium bidding. Many bidders behave strategically, anticipating the effects of the reserve price on others' bids.
Explaining the distribution of firm growth rates
Authors: Bottazzi Giulio , Secchi Angelo
Published: January 2010

Empirical analyses on aggregated datasets have revealed a common exponential behavior in the shape of the probability density of corporate growth rates. We present clear‐cut evidence on this topic using disaggregated data. We explain the observed regularities proposing a model in which firms' ability to take up new business opportunities increases with the number of opportunities already exploited. A theoretical result is presented for the limiting case in which the number of firms and opportunities go to infinity. Moreover, using simulations, we show that even in a small industry the agreement with asymptotic results is almost complete.
Using price distributions to estimate search costs
Authors: Hong Han , Shum Matthew
Published: January 2010

We show how the equilibrium restrictions implied by standard search models can be used to estimate search‐cost distributions using price data alone. We consider both sequential and non‐sequential search strategies, and develop estimation methodologies that exploit equilibrium restrictions to recover estimates of search‐cost heterogeneity that are theoretically consistent with the search models. We illustrate the method using online prices for several economics and statistics textbooks.
Monopoly with resale
Authors: Calzolari Giacomo , Pavan Alessandro
Published: January 2010

We examine the intricacies associated with the design of revenue‐maximizing mechanisms for a monopolist who expects her buyers to resell. We consider two cases: resale to a third party who does not participate in the primary market and interbidder resale, where the winner resells to the losers. To influence the resale outcome, the monopolist must design an allocation rule and a disclosure policy that optimally fashion the beliefs of the participants in the secondary market. Our results show that the revenue‐maximizing mechanism may require a stochastic selling procedure and a disclosure policy richer than the simple announcement of the decision to sell to a particular buyer.
Optimal incentives for sequential production processes
Authors: Winter Eyal
Published: January 2010

I study optimal incentive schemes in organizations where agents perform their tasks sequentially. I consider a model in which agents' effort decisions are mapped into the probability of the project's success. An optimal investment‐inducing mechanism allocates rewards to agents so as to induce all of them to exert effort in equilibrium at minimal cost to the principal. I characterize the unique optimal mechanism in several versions of my benchmark model. I also address the problem of allocating individuals with diverse qualifications to different slots of the production process as well as allocating tasks of different importance across different agents.
Estimating a continuous hedonic‐choice model with an application to demand for soft drinks
Authors: Chan Tat Y.
Published: January 2010

Using micro‐level scanner data, I study empirically the consumer demand for soft drinks, which is characterized by multiple‐product, multiple‐unit purchasing behavior. I develop a continuous hedonic‐choice model to investigate how consumers choose the best basket of products to satisfy various needs. My model's embedded‐characteristics approach both helps to reduce the dimensionality problem in model estimation and generates flexible substitution patterns. Hence, the model is useful in application to data with many product choices that are correlated with each other at the individual level. The estimation results show that interesting substitutability and even a form of complementarity exist among soft drinks.
Single‐port laparoscopic splenectomy: The first three cases
Authors: You Y.K. , Lee S.K. , Hong T.H. , Kim J.G.
Published: January 2010

In the past two decades, laparoscopic surgery has replaced open surgery in most abdominal surgeries, including splenectomies for which it has become the standard. Single‐port laparoscopic surgery is a newly emerging surgical technique that decreases postoperative scarring and parietal trauma. Herein we report on three cases of splenectomy in which single‐port laparoscopic surgery technique was applied. Between October 2008 and January 2009, a 13‐year‐old male suffering from grade‐III splenic trauma and two females, aged 33 and 61, respectively, and both diagnosed with immune thrombocytopenic purpura, underwent single‐port laparoscopic splenectomies. Preoperative and postoperative management, including vaccination, was performed in a routine manner. A 3.5 cm transverse incision at the anterior axillary line at umbilicus level was used as a single‐port entry point. The entire procedure took 195, 125 and 133 minutes, respectively. All patients recovered and were discharged without any complications.
Laparoscopic treatment of primary omental torsion: Case report and literature review
Authors: Portillo GR. , Salgado Cruz LE , Franklin ME
Published: January 2010

Omental torsion is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain. The diagnosis is rarely made preoperatively. The treatment has been classically open. We present a case of omental torsion laparoscopically.

A 63‐year‐old man was admitted to the emergency department. The patient had a right upper quadrant pain that started 3 d before his admission.

The omentum was freed in a blunt fashion by identifying a point of torsion in the base of the mass. Partial omentectomy was performed with the assistance of a harmonic scalpel. The specimen was retrieved in a bag through a 3 cm left flank incision extended from a 10 mm port site.

The pathology evaluation revealed an infarcted omentum. The patient had instant relief of pain, and the recovery was uneventful, with the patient beings discharged 2 d postoperative.

The laparoscopic treatment of omental torsion is a safe, feasible and effective alternative.
Indocyanine green‐fluorescent imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma during laparoscopic hepatectomy: An initial experience
Authors: Ishizawa T , Bandai Y , Harada N , Muraoka A , Ijichi M , Kusaka K , Shibasaki M , Kokudo N
Published: January 2010

Introduction: Laparoscopic hepatectomy has disadvantages in intraoperative diagnosis, because it offers limited visualization and palpability of the liver surface. Recently, we developed a novel fluorescent imaging technique using indocyanine green (ICG), which would enable identification of liver cancers during open hepatectomy. However, this technique has not yet been applied to laparoscopic hepatectomy.

Materials and Surgical Technique: A patient with a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) located in Couinaud's segment II was administered ICG (0.5 mg per kg body weight) intravenous injection 5 d before surgery, as a routine liver function test. The prototype fluorescent imaging system was composed of a xenon light source and a laparoscope with a charge‐coupled device camera that could filter out light with wavelengths below 810 nm. Intraoperatively, fluorescent imaging of the HCC was performed by changing color images to fluorescent images with a foot switch. Then, the fluorescing tumor was clearly identified on the visceral surface of segment II during mobilization of the left liver for resection of segments II and III. On the cut surface of the specimen, the tumor showed uniform fluorescence and was microscopically diagnosed as a well‐differentiated HCC.

Discussion: Laparoscopic fluorescent imaging using preoperative injection of ICG enabled real‐time identification of HCC. This technique may be an easy and reliable tool to enhance the accuracy of intraoperative diagnosis during laparoscopic hepatectomy.
What drives disease in multiple sclerosis: Inflammation or neurodegeneration?
Authors: Lassmann Hans
Published: January 2010

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is defined as a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, which leads to focal inflammatory demyelinated lesions with secondary neurodegeneration. However, this concept has recently been challenged by several observations suggesting that in this disease neurodegeneration might occur independently of inflammation. Here, these new findings are critically discussed and evidence that active neurodegeneration in MS is invariably associated with inflammation is provided. The present review shows, however, that the inflammatory reaction is much more complex, as thought before, and that in the progressive stage of the disease it might become trapped in the central nervous system behind a repaired blood–brain barrier. Future therapeutic options for this disease are discussed on the basis of recent knowledge of the mechanisms of inflammation and neurodegeneration. (Clin. Exp. Neuroimmunol. doi: 10.1111/ j.1759‐1961.2009.00003.x, January 2010)
Involvement of semaphorins and their receptors in neurological diseases
Authors: Takegahara Noriko , Kumanogoh Atsushi
Published: January 2010

Abstract The immune and nervous systems have various common features in their functional characteristics. Both have an intricate network of synaptic connections and an exquisite communication system that enables intercellular signal transduction. Semaphorins were originally identified as guidance factors for developing neuronal axons. However, accumulating evidence indicates that several semaphorins called “immune semaphorins” are crucial for various phases of immune responses, from the initiation to the termination of inflammatory processes. Furthermore, it is becoming clear that immune semaphorins contribute to pathological immune responses in the central nervous system. Here, we review the present knowledge of the function of semphorins and their receptors in the immune system, and their involvement in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases. (Clin. Exp. Neuroimmunol. doi: 10.1111/j.1759‐1961.2009.00004.x, January 2010)
Effect of Phenylpropanolamine and Pseudoephedrine on the Urethral Pressure Profile and Continence Scores of Incontinent Female Dogs
Authors: Byron Julie K. , March Philip A. , Chew Dennis J. , DiBartola Stephen P.
Published: January 2010

Background: Traditionally, treatment of urinary incontinence in spayed female dogs has been to increase urethral sphincter tone with estrogen compounds or α‐agonists. Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is the most frequently used α‐agonist for this condition, but increased cost and decreased availability of PPA as an over‐the‐counter medication have prompted interest in alternative therapies that may provide the same degree of efficacy. Pseudoephedrine (PD), an α‐agonist and stereoisomer of ephedrine, is more cost‐effective and available without a prescription.

Hypothesis: PD will not differ from PPA in its effects on urodynamic variables and owner‐reported continence scores or in observed adverse effects.

Animals: Nine spayed female dogs with a history of urinary incontinence drawn from the clinical patient population at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at The Ohio State University.

Methods: A randomized, double‐blind crossover study evaluating changes in urodynamic variables, owner‐reported continence score, and adverse effects in dogs treated with 1.5 mg/kg PO q8h PPA or PD.

Results: Changes in maximum urethral closure pressure and functional area after PPA therapy were significantly higher than after PD therapy. There was no change in the functional profile length after either treatment. There was a significant increase in the continence score after PPA therapy, but not after PD therapy. More adverse effects were observed in dogs treated with PD than with PPA.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Although some dogs clinically improved, lack of statistically significant changes in urodynamic variables and owner perception of continence as well as the increased incidence of adverse effects make PD a less satisfactory alternative to PPA for the treatment of urinary incontinence in female dogs.
Chloride ion detection by InN gated AlGaN∕GaN high electron mobility transistors
Authors: Chu Byung-Hwan , Lin Hon-Way , Gwo Shangjr , Wang Yu-Lin , Pearton S. J. , Johnson J. W. , Rajagopal P. , Roberts J. C. , Piner E. L. , Linthicuni K. J. , Ren Fan
Published: January 2010

Real time chloride ion detection using InN gated AlGaN∕GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) was demonstrated. The InN thin film on the gate area of the HEMT provided fixed surface sites for reversible anion coordination. The drain current of the HEMT sensor exhibited increased a function of chloride ion concentration. The positive ions (Na+, Mg+2, and H+) in the chloride ion solutions showed no effect on the chloride ion concentration detection. The sensor was tested over a range of chloride ion concentrations from 100nMto100μM. The chloride ion HEMT sensors can be integrated with AlGaN∕GaN HEMT based pH and glucose sensors for exhaled breath condensate glucose monitoring technology. The HEMT based sensor can also be integrated into a wireless data transmission system for remote sensing applications.