bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PRECIPITATING ANTIBODIES TO E. COLI O ANTIGENS: A SUGGESTED DIFFERENCE IN THE ANTIBODY RESPONSE OF INFANTS AND CHILDREN WITH FIRST AND RECURRENT ATTACKS OF PYELONEPHRITIS
Authors: HANSON LARS A. , HOLMGREN JAN , JODAL ULF , WINBERG JAN
Published: January 2008

The presence of precipitating antibodies toE. coliO antigens in consecutive serum samples from infants and children with pyelonephritis without obstructions in the urinary tract was studied using an immunodiffusion method. Precipitating antibodies were found in only five of 20 patients clinically diagnosed as having their first attack of pyelonephritis, but in all of 13 patients with a recurrent infection. Such antibodies were not found in any of 93 controls without symptoms or signs of urinary tract infection.

The reason for the appearance of IgG precipitins toE. colimainly in patients with recurrent pyelonephritis is discussed with regard to three possibilities: a secondary antibody response induced by the recurrent infection, an adjuvant effect of endotoxin remaining from an earlier infection and finally more severe infections causing stronger antigenic stimuli in patients with tendency toward recurrencies.

The detection of precipitating antibodies toE. coliO antigens might be useful for early recognition of patients with recurrent pyelonephritis, who are at risk to develop progressive renal scarring.
Maintenance of Strength Gains While Performing Endurance Training in Oarswomen
Authors: Bell G. J. , Syrotuik D. G. , Attwood K. , Quinney H. A.
Published: January 2008

This study investigated the retention of strength gained after resistance training, while performing aerobic endurance training. Following a 10-week resistance training program (three times a week) that included maintenance aerobic endurance training (twice a week), 18 varsity oarswomen were matched on strength and randomly assigned to two groups: Group 1 performed maintenance resistance training once a week and Group 2 performed resistance training twice a week. Both groups performed endurance training four times a week during the 6-week maintenance resistance training program. There was a significant increase in strength (multiple-RM test) for three upper and three lower body exercises after the initial 10-week resistance training program. A further significant increase in two exercises (inclined leg press and knee flexion) were observed after 6 weeks of maintenance resistance training and endurance training in both groups. No further significant increases were observed in the four other exercises during maintenance strength training. These latter findings occurred at the same time that VO2max and ventilation threshold increased. These results suggest that strength gains can be maintained with resistance training once or twice a week while focusing on improving aerobic endurance performance without compromising the latter. Key words: repetition maximum, ventilation threshold, endurance performance
Aerobic Exercise in Pregnancy: An Update
Authors: Wolfe Larry A. , Mottola Michelle F.
Published: January 2008

The endocrine effects of pregnancy cause striking changes in maternal metabolism, cardiovascular regulation, acid-base balance, and thermoregulation at rest and during standard submaximal exercise. The apparent purpose of these changes is to accommodate fetal needs in addition to those of the exercising woman. A significant body of evidence supports the hypothesis that healthy women can perform acute exercise of moderate intensity and duration without jeopardizing fetal well-being. Compiled studies also suggest that maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text], L∙min−1) and the work rate at the onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA) are not significantly altered during the course of a normal pregnancy. However, some evidence suggests that maximal anaerobic power may be reduced. More information is needed on maternal cardiorespiratory function, carbohydrate metabolism, and acid-base balance at exercise intensities above OBLA and on fetal adaptability to strenuous maternal exercise. Recent studies support the view that moderate fitness conditioning can augment maternal metabolic and cardiopulmonary capacities without altering fetal development or pregnancy outcome. Implications of recent scientific studies for the design of aerobic exercise programs for pregnant women are discussed. Key words: maternal physiology, fetal well-being, physical conditioning, exercise guidelines
Validity and Reliability of the Cosmed K2 to Measure Oxygen Uptake
Authors: Lothian F. , Farrally M. R. , Mahoney C.
Published: January 2008

The validity and reliability of the Cosmed K2 was tested in comparison with a Quinton on-line oxygen analysing system. A female subject was monitored on a treadmill using a progressive protocol and was measured on three occasions with each system. It was found at low workloads that the Cosmed K2 and the Quinton gave the same measure of oxygen uptake; at higher workloads the Cosmed K2 gave lower values, and at peak oxygen uptake the Cosmed K2 measured 22.2% less than the Quinton. The difference in the measurement of [Formula: see text] at peak oxygen uptake was 13%. The Cosmed K2's measurement of [Formula: see text] showed a greater variability between trials (variation coefficient 3.0-11.4%) than the Quinton (variation coefficient 1.1-3.9%). Key words: Cosmed K2, validity, telemetry
Anthropometric and Computed Tomographic Assessment of the Thigh in Young and Old Men
Authors: Overend Tom J. , Cunningham David A. , Paterson Donald H. , Lefcoe Michael S.
Published: January 2008

Anthropometric (AP) and computed tomographic (CT) methods of determining limb and muscle-plus-bone cross-sectional area (CSA) and volume (Vol) were compared in 13 young (M = 24.5 yrs) and 11 old (M = 71.0 yrs) men. CSA of total thigh, muscle-plus-bone, quadriceps, and hamstring muscle compartments and muscle were measured from CT scans. Corresponding muscle Vol were estimated from anthropometric equations. Prediction equations for CT measures were developed from AP measures using multiple linear regression. AP and CT techniques produced different values for thigh component CSA and Vol, especially in the old men. AP overestimated muscle-plus-bone CSA and Vol (4-6%) and underestimated skin and subcutaneous tissue CSA and Vol (17-33%). Prediction equations for quadriceps CSA and Vol (R2 = 80-96%) were more accurate than equations for hamstrings (R2 = 42-65%). Specific thigh muscle CSA and Vol can be predicted from AP measures (SEE 5-15%). These findings may have clinical significance when normalizing strength per unit of muscle size. Key words: computed tomography, anthropometry, cross-sectional area, limb volume, ageing
Physiological Effects of Weight Cycling in Female Lightweight Rowers
Authors: McCargar Linda J. , Simmons Deanna , Craton Neil , Taunton Jack E. , Birmingham C. Laird
Published: January 2008

Repeated cycles of weight loss and regain are referred to as weight cycling. It is a practice of many athletes who must achieve a low body weight. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a history of weight cycling results in sustained metabolic changes. Healthy female rowers with a history of dieting and weight fluctuation (n = 7) were compared to a control group of rowers who had never dieted (n = 7). Anthropometric and metabolic measurements were done at pre-, peak, and off-season during a 1-year period. At peak season the weight cyclers restricted their food intake and lost 4.2 ± 1.8 kg, and subsequently regained 4.0 ± 2.1 kg in the off-season. This was different from the controls (p =.003), who maintained a stable body weight at all times. No other group differences were observed. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) and triiodothyronine (T3) changed with time (p =.001, p =.000, respectively) in both groups, which appeared to reflect changes in fat free mass (FFM), not body weight. Long-term metabolic changes were not observed in these athletes. Key words: weight cycling, metabolic rate, body composition, rowers
A New Approach to the Interpretation of Canadian Home Fitness Test Scores
Authors: Shephard Roy J. , Bouchard Claude
Published: January 2008

A modification of the Åstrand (1960) nomogram procedure was applied to Canadian Home Fitness Test data obtained on 13,258 subjects, ages 15 to 69 years, during the 1981 Canada Fitness Survey. Norms were developed to allow an empirical five-level categorization of aerobic fitness, based on the attained rate of stepping and the recovery pulse count 5 to 15 s following exercise. Because of uncertainties regarding the net mechanical efficiency of stepping and the selective recruitment of fit older subjects, the apparent rate of aerobic fitness decrease with aging was no more than half of that seen in laboratory measurements, and the sex differential at any given age (about 25%) was larger than expected. The new approach thus does not claim a high level of accuracy for the predicted peak MET values. Nevertheless, it has an inherent advantage over the equation of Jetté et al. (1976) in that it takes more direct account of variations in pulse count when categorizing fitness. Moreover, there is no artificial ceiling that limits scores for very fit subjects. Tests are now needed to assess the accuracy of the proposed fitness categorizations relative to laboratory determinations of maximal oxygen intake. Key words: aerobic fitness norms, Åstrand nomogram. Jetté equation, step testing, MET values
Prediction of Stroke Volume From Oxygen Pulse Measurements in Untrained and Trained Men
Authors: Bhambhani Yagesh , Norris Stephen , Bell Gordon
Published: January 2008

This study examined the relationship of oxygen pulse (O2 pulse) to stroke volume (SV) and arterio-venous oxygen difference [[Formula: see text] diff] during submaximal cycle exercise in untrained (UG) and trained (TG) males. Fourteen volunteers in each group completed an incremental [Formula: see text] max test and a submaximal test at 60% [Formula: see text] max to determine cardiac output (Q) via CO2 rebreathing. [Formula: see text], Q, and heart rate (HR) were used to calculate SV and [Formula: see text] diff. There were no significant differences (p >.05) between the two groups for O2 pulse, SV, and [Formula: see text] diff during submaximal exercise. Stroke volume index (SVI) was significantly higher (p <.05) in the TG. O2 pulse was significantly related to SV and SVI (p <.05) but not to [Formula: see text] diff in both groups. Regression equations for predicting SV from O2 pulse for UG and TG were Y = 6.81X + 26.7, SE = 21.4, r = 0.84, and Y = 10.33X - 32.3, SE = 14.2, r = 0.71, respectively. These results suggest that O2 pulse can be used to predict SV during submaximal cycle exercise in untrained and trained men. Key words: cardiac performance, exercise, training status
Rowing Performance and Selected Descriptive, Field, and Laboratory Variables
Authors: Kramer John F. , Leger Andrew , Paterson Donald H. , Morrow Alan
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships among measures of rowing performance and selected descriptive, field, and laboratory variables. Rowing performance of 20 intercollegiate oarswomen was assessed using a 2,500-m time test on a Concept II rowing ergometer, the rower's competitive experience, and the coach's ranking of the rowers. The oarswomen also underwent standardized descriptive tests including anthropometric measurements, field tests including 90-s rowing ergometer distance and weight lifting tests, and laboratory tests including [Formula: see text] and isokinetic knee extensor strength tests. Rowing ergometer times were highly related to competitive experience (rho = −0.86; p < 0.01) and coach's ranking (rho = 0.87; p < 0.01). [Formula: see text] was the only other variable to produce correlations greater than 0.71 with rowing performance. Although most of the correlations observed in the present study were poor to modestly high, they do document and quantify relationships, and suggest that training and testing techniques should be modified to be more rowing specific and that their usefulness with respect to positive transfer and prediction should be examined. Key words: rowing, strength, [Formula: see text]
Ballistic Movement: Muscle Activation and Neuromuscular Adaptation
Authors: Zehr E. Paul , Sale Digby G.
Published: January 2008

Movements that are performed with maximal velocity and acceleration can be considered ballistic actions. Ballistic actions are characterized by high firing rates, brief contraction times, and high rates of force development. A characteristic triphasic agonist/antagonist/agonist electromyographic (EMG) burst pattern occurs during ballistic movement, wherein the amount and intensity of antagonist coactivation is variable. In conditions of low-grade tonic muscular activity, a premovement EMG depression (PMD; or silent period, PMS) can occur in agonist muscles prior to ballistic contraction. The agonist PMD period may serve to potentiate the force and velocity of the following contraction. A selective activation of fast twitch motor units may occur in ballistic contractions under certain movement conditions. Finally, high-velocity ballistic training induces specific neuromuscular adaptations that occur as a function of the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms that subserve ballistic movement. Key words: electromyography, motor control, training adaptation, motor unit
Heat Strain in the Canadian Forces Chemical Defence Clothing: Problems and Solutions
Authors: McLellan Thomas M. , Frim John
Published: January 2008

The Canadian Forces chemical defence protective clothing can induce an overwhelming strain on one's ability to regulate body temperature. Recently a number of investigations have been completed at the Defence and Civil Institute of Environmental Medicine that focused initially on understanding the interaction of metabolic rate, ambient temperature, and ambient vapour pressure on the severity of heat strain associated with wearing the protective clothing. This paper presents a summary of these initial studies together with an overview of different attempts to reduce heat strain during exercise in a hot environment. Factors such as improved aerobic fitness or a period of dry heat acclimation have little if any benefit on tolerance time while wearing the clothing during light or moderate exercise. The best solution to the problem of heat strain remains the use of microclimate conditioning (personal cooling), and these techniques have been successful for Naval and Air Force personnel. For our Land Forces, however, microclimate conditioning is not feasible until a lightweight high-energy power source is developed. Key words: thermoregulation, endurance training, heat acclimation, microclimate conditioning
Measurement of Left Ventricular Function During Arm Ergometry Using the VESTTM Nuclear Probe
Authors: Goodman Len S. , Goodman Jack M. , Yang Linda , Sloninko Joanna , Hsia Terry , Freeman Michael R.
Published: January 2008

A chest-mounted left ventricular (LV) nuclear probe (VEST™) for use during arm and leg ergometry is presented, with a discussion of the validity and reproducibility of LV function measures at rest and exercise. During both arm and leg ergometry in trained subjects, transient changes in LV function/volumes were observed. LV ejection fraction and relative end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes were 25 to 30% less with the arms versus the legs, agreeing with data from other studies using conventional techniques. At peak exercise with both limbs, LV ejection fraction and relative LV end-systolic volume increased, followed by immediate postexercise normalization. The effect was greatest with the arms and reflects the effect of high intramuscular and arterial pressures generated during arm cranking, leading to increased LV afterloading. The VESTTM permits rapid and noninvasive assessment of LV function during arm exercise, avoiding the limitations of other techniques. Key words: arm exercise, radionuclide, chest-mounted probe
Monoclonal Antibodies for Exercise-Induced Fecal Blood Detection-Comparison With Hemofec
Authors: Yges Cristina , Chicharro José L. , Lucía Alejandro , Legido Julio C. , Bandrés Fernando
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the incidence of fecal occult blood in marathoners using an immunochemical technique (OC-Hemodia). Five stool specimens (2 pre- and 3 postrace) were collected from 24 male runners (mean age 41.4 ± 9.3 yrs) and analysed for fecal occult blood using the OC-Hemodia test. The results were also compared with a qualitative test (Hemofec) in 12 subjects who were randomly selected from the overall group of 24 runners. With the immunochemical technique, the results evidenced the presence of fecal occult blood in 8 subjects in the first postrace stool specimens. Four of these 8 subjects also tested positive in the second postrace sample, whereas in the third postrace sample only one of them tested positive. With the qualitative test, fecal blood was demonstrated in 10 runners in the first postrace sample. Eight of them tested positive in the second sample, whereas only 5 tested positive in the third sample. The immunochemical technique is recommended for fecal occult blood detection in marathoners. Key words: gastrointestinal bleeding, immunochemical technique, marathon
Changes in Plasma Electrolytes and Muscle Substrates During Short-Term Maximal Exercise in Humans
Authors: Boulay Marcel R. , Serresse Olivier , Thériault Germain , Simoneau Jean-Aimé , Bouchard Claude , Song Thomas M. K.
Published: January 2008

This study compared the effects of 3 short-term maximal exercise tests lasting 10, 30, and 90 sec upon blood volume, plasma electrolytes, glucose, glycerol, lactate and skeletal muscle ATP, PC, glycogen, and lactate concentrations. Seven sedentary male subjects were recruited and 5 of them were randomly assigned to each of the 3 protocols. The tests were performed on a modified ergocycle at workloads of 0.9, 0.075, and 0.05 kp∙kg−1 body mass, respectively. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis before and immediately after each exercise. Venous blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and during the recovery (5, 20, 60, and 120 min). Plasma volume decreased during the 30- and 90-sec tests and was increased in all tests after 60 min of recovery. Plasma K+ increased during all tests and returned to normal values 5 min postexercise, except after the 90-sec test where it fell below resting values. Plasma Na+ and Cl− were unaffected. Blood lactate increased in all tests, glucose increased after the 90-sec test, and glycerol increased after the 30- and 90-sec tests. All 3 tests brought relatively similar changes in muscle ATP, PC, and glycogen while muscle lactate changes were related to exercise duration. These results suggest that a normal hydration status is important for a subject undergoing short training bouts, and that high-intensity tests of short duration do not require a special nutritional regimen to enhance glycogen reserves. Key words: skeletal muscle, hemoconcentration, hypervolemia, hyperkalemia
Hypoxémie et Temps Limite à la Vitesse Aérobie Maximale Chez des Coureurs de Fond
Authors: Billat Veronique , Renoux Jean-Cyril , Pinoteau Jacques , Petit Bernard , Koralsztein Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2008

A recent paper (Billat et al., 1994a) has shown the reproducibility but also the great variability between subelite long-distance runners in their time to exhaustion at the velocity which elicits [Formula: see text], called the maximal aerobic speed (MAS). The present study delved further into the reasons for this large difference between runners having the same [Formula: see text]. The question addressed was whether the exercise-induced hypoxemia (EIH) was more important for athletes having the longest time to exhaustion at 90 (Tlim 90), 100 (Tlim 100), or 105% (Tlim 105) of MAS. The study was conducted on 16 elite male runners. EIH was observed, that is, arteriel oxyhemoglobin saturation and arterial partial pressure of oxygen dropped significantly after all the Tlim tests. However, EIH was only correlated with Tlim 90 (r = −0.757; −0.531, respectively). Key words: exercise, running
Caffeine Ingestion and Performance of a 1,500-Metre Swim
Authors: MacIntosh Brian Robert , Wright Bridget Margarette
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential ergogenic benefit of caffeine in the performance of a 1,500-meter swim. Caffeine (6 mg∙kg−1) or placebo was administered 2-1/2 hrs prior to the swim trial in a double-blind crossover design. Caffeine resulted in a significantly lower perceived exertion for 100-m warm-up swims. Subjects swam significantly (p < 0.05) faster with caffeine (20:58.8 ± 0:36.4, mean ± SEM) than without (21:21.8 ± 0:38). Plasma potassium was significantly lower prior to the swim with caffeine, and blood glucose was higher after that swim. Caffeine provides an ergogenic benefit for a 1,500-meter swim, an event that is completed in less than 25 min. Lower plasma potassium concentration prior to exercise and higher blood glucose following the trial suggest that electrolyte balance and glucose availability may be important aspects of the ergogenic effects of caffeine. Key words: methylxanthines, endurance, exercise, potassium, fatigue, swimming
Generation of Free Radicals and Messenger Function
Authors: Carlson John C. , Sawada Masaaki
Published: January 2008

Free radicals are toxic agents that are produced as by-products of metabolic activity. A number of antioxidant mechanisms work to protect cells from damage. Recent evidence indicates, however, that free radicals and related oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide may also have a beneficial role, working as messengers to control cell function. These agents are generated in response to agonists, production is regulated by intracellular signal pathways, and they appear to be used to control particular cellular processes. Free radicals may perform these functions in a number of cell types. Also, they are produced in muscles and there is evidence that they may work as messengers in smooth muscle cells. Key words: phospholipases, intracellular messengers, regulation of function, muscle cells
Short-Term Training, Muscle Glycogen, and Cycle Endurance
Authors: Green Howard J. , Ball-Burnett Marg , Symon Steve , Grant Sue , Jamieson Greg
Published: January 2008

The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that the increased glycogen concentration found in the working muscles following short-term training would result in an increase in endurance performance. Endurance performance was examined in 8 active but untrained males who cycled until fatigue at 65% [Formula: see text]max prior to and following 3 consecutive days of training. Training consisted of cycling for 2 hrs a day at the same power output used in the prolonged fatigue trials. A 39% increase in cycle time, from 103 ± 7.7 to 143 ± 14 min (p < 0.05), was observed following training. At fatigue prior to training, glycogen concentration in the vastus lateralis muscle was depleted by 75% (317 ± 17 to 78.8 ± 32 mmol∙glucosyl units∙kg−1 d.w). Following training, glycogen concentration at a comparable work time was 2.3 times higher. The elevated glycogen level following training was due both to higher glycogen at rest and during exercise. The energy cost of the activity as measured by the [Formula: see text] at selected intervals was unchanged with training. No change (p > 0.05) in exercise time was observed in a control group who were subjected to similar exercise protocols approximately 1 to 2 weeks apart. It is concluded that short-term training at least in untrained individuals ([Formula: see text]max averaging 43.6 ± 2.9 ml∙kg−1∙min−1) substantially elevates submaximal exercise tolerance and that the increase in resistance to fatigue is related to the elevated availability of glycogen. Key words: endurance performance, adaptation, carbohydrate, vastus lateralis
Extreme Derangements of Acid-Base Balance in Exercise: Advantages and Limitations of the Stewart Analysis
Authors: Fedde M. Roger , Pieschl Jr. Richard L.
Published: January 2008

The acid-base analysis method described by Stewart (1981) was applied to the greyhound, an animal that undergoes large changes in intra- and extracellular hydrogen ion concentrations during a race. Increases in plasma [H+] especially during the first 15 min of recovery, induced by increases in lactate concentration in the plasma, were reduced by lowering of PCO2 (hyperventilation) and removal of Cl− from the plasma. [H+] calculated by the Stewart method is similar to that measured directly with a pH electrode when the strong ion difference is within 10 meq/L of resting values (≈ 40 meqIL); thus the measured independent variables were sufficient to account for the [H+] using the Stewart analysis. When the strong ion difference became lower than 30 meq/L, increased variability between measured and calculated [H+] occurred. An error analysis demonstrated the importance of minimizing measurement error of all independent variables, including as many strong and weak electrolytes as possible in the analyses, using the most accurate dissociation constants possible, and understanding the dissociation behavior of the weak electrolytes, especially the plasma proteins, when using the Stewart analysis. The Stewart method of analyzing acid-base balance can contribute to improved training methods for obtaining maximum exercise performance. Key words: racing greyhound, sprint exercise, strong ion difference, weak electrolytes
Failure of 40 Weeks of Brisk Walking to Alter Blood Lipids in Normolipemic Women
Authors: Santiago Mayra C. , Leon Arthur S. , Serfass Robert C.
Published: January 2008

Sedentary, eumenorrheic women (N = 27) 22 to 40 years of age, with high baseline levels of plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, were randomly assigned to a walking (n = 16) or a control group (n = 11). The training program involved treadmill walking 4.8 km (3.0 miles) four times a week for 40 weeks at a mean intensity of 72% maximal heart rate. Aerobic power (VO2max) was improved by 22%, but no training effect was observed in body composition variables or blood lipid/lipoprotein levels. Despite additional increments in exercise intensity over the final 20 weeks of training, most of the improvement in VO2max was observed over the first 20 weeks of the study. Exercising subjects' baseline levels of plasma HDL-C were found to be inversely associated with the change (delta) scores in the lipoprotein (r = −0.51, p <.05). Key words: maximal oxygen consumption, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol
The Time Course for Elevated Muscle Protein Synthesis Following Heavy Resistance Exercise
Authors: MacDougall J. Duncan , Gibala Martin J. , Tarnopolsky Mark A. , MacDonald Jay R. , Interisano Stephen A. , Yarasheski Kevin E.
Published: January 2008

It has been shown that muscle protein synthetic rate (MPS) is elevated in humans by 50% at 4 hrs following a bout of heavy resistance training, and by 109% at 24 hrs following training. This study further examined the time course for elevated muscle protein synthesis by examining its rate at 36 hrs following a training session. Six healthy young men performed 12 sets of 6- to 12-RM elbow flexion exercises with one arm while the opposite arm served as a control. MPS was calculated from the in vivo rate of incorporation of L-[1,2−13C2] leucine into biceps brachii of both arms using the primed constant infusion technique over 11 hrs. At an average time of 36 hrs postexercise, MPS in the exercised arm had returned to within 14% of the control arm value, the difference being nonsignificant. It is concluded that following a bout of heavy resistance training, MPS increases rapidly, is more than double at 24 hrs, and thereafter declines rapidly so that at 36 hrs it has almost returned to baseline. Key words: L-[−13C] leucine, muscle hypertrophy, training frequency, mass spectrometry
PHOTOCOMPUTING: EXPLORATIONS WITH TRANSPARENCY AND OPACITY
Authors: HEAD TOM
Published: January 2008

We continue to search for methods of parallel computing using light. An algorithm for solving instances of the Boolean satisfiability problem is given and illustrated using a photocopying machine with plastic transparencies as medium. The algorithm solves satisfiability problems in linear time but requires the assumption that information can be stored with a density that is exponential in the number of variables in the problem instance. Consideration is given to situations in which this density limitation is not quite absolute.
PARALLELIZING THREE DIMENSIONAL CELLULAR AUTOMATA WITH OpenMP
Authors: GARCIA CARBAJAL SANTIAGO
Published: January 2008

This paper describes our research on using Genetic Programming to obtain transition rules for Cellular Automata, which are one type of massively parallel computing system. Our purpose is to determine the existence of a limit of chaos for three dimensional Cellular Automata, empirically demonstrated for the two dimensional case. To do so, we must study statistical properties of 3D Cellular Automata over long simulation periods. When dealing with big three dimensional meshes, applying the transition rule to the whole structure can become a extremely slow task. In this work we decompose the Automata into pieces and use OpenMp to parallelize the process. Results show that using a decomposition procedure, and distributing the mesh between a set of processors, 3D Cellular Automata can be studied without having long execution times.
AN ARCHITECTURAL APPROACH TO BUILDING GRIDS USING LEGACY CODE
Authors: GAMESS ERIC
Published: January 2008

In this paper, we present a new architecture to build grids that can execute parallel programs based on legacy code. This architecture is layer based and software component performances are validated with benchmarks. To illustrate the construction of a grid using the proposed architecture, we develop a case study that consists of a grid oriented to efficient execution of Java bytecode for which we validate and integrate legacy code of parallel linear algebra.
ON A UNIFIED NEIGHBOURHOOD BROADCASTING SCHEME FOR INTERCONNECTION NETWORKS
Authors: QIU KE
Published: January 2008

The neighbourhood broadcasting problem in an interconnection network is defined as sending a fixed sized message from the source node to all its neighbours in a single-port model. Previously, this problem has been studied for several interconnection networks including the hypercube and the star. The objective of such works has been to minimize the total number of steps required for the neighbourhood broadcasting algorithms. Here, we first use a general neighbourhood broadcasting scheme to develop a neighbourhood broadcasting algorithm for the star interconnection network that is asymptotically optimal, conceptually simple, and easy to implement since routing for all nodes involved is uniform. It uses the cycle structures of the star graph as well as the standard technique of recursive doubling. We then show that the scheme for the star network is general enough to be applied to a broader family of interconnection networks such as the pancake interconnection network for which no previous neighbourhood broadcasting algorithm is known, resulting in asymptotically optimal algorithms. Finally, we use this scheme to develop neighbourhood broadcasting algorithms for multiple messages for several interconnection networks.
QUANDLES AND LINKING NUMBER
Authors: HARRELL NATASHA , NELSON SAM
Published: January 2008

We study the quandle counting invariant for a certain family of finite quandles with trivial orbit subquandles. We show how these invariants determine the linking number of classical two-component links up to sign.
REMARKS ON CONGRUENCE OF 3-MANIFOLDS
Authors: GILMER PATRICK M.
Published: January 2008

We give two proofs that the 3-torus is not weakly d-congruent to #3S1 × S2, if d > 2. We study how cohomology ring structure relates to weak congruence. We give an example of three 3-manifolds which are weakly 5-congruent but are not 5-congruent.
5-MOVE EQUIVALENCE CLASSES OF LINKS AND THEIR ALGEBRAIC INVARIANTS
Authors: DABKOWSKI MIECZYSŁAW K. , ISHIWATA MAKIKO , PRZYTYCKI JÓZEF H.
Published: January 2008

We start a systematic analysis of links up to 5-move equivalence. Our motivation is to develop tools which later can be used to study skein modules based on the skein relation being deformation of a 5-move (in an analogous way as the Kauffman skein module is a deformation of a 2-move, i.e. a crossing change). Our main tools are Jones and Kauffman polynomials and the fundamental group of the 2-fold branch cover of S3 along a link. We use also the fact that a 5-move is a composition of two rational ±(2, 2)-moves (i.e. [Formula: see text]-moves) and rational moves can be analyzed using the group of Fox colorings and its non-abelian version, the Burnside group of a link. One curious observation is that links related by one (2, 2)-move are not 5-move equivalent. In particular, we partially classify (up to 5-moves) 3-braids, pretzel and Montesinos links, and links up to 9 crossings.
Intravenous Iron Sucrose in Chinese Hemodialysis Patients with Renal Anemia
Authors: Li Han , Wang Shi-xiang
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: Renal anemia is one of the commonest complications of chronic renal failure. Iron deficiency is the most common factor which affects the efficacy of recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO) therapy. Intravenous (i.v.) iron preparations are commonly used in Western countries, but iron sucrose is seldom used in Chinese patients on maintenance hemodialysis. The aim of the present study was to explore the safety and efficacy of i.v. iron sucrose in Chinese patients on maintenance hemodialysis and to explore the optimal administration frequency. Methods: One hundred and thirty-six patients on maintenance hemodialysis were involved in this randomized, controlled, parallel-group, single-center trial. Seventy patients received i.v. iron sucrose (Venofer®, delivering 100 mg iron) twice a week for 8 weeks, then once a week for another 4 weeks. The other 66 patients received oral (p.o.) ferrous succinate 200 mg t.i.d. for 12 weeks. Levels of serum ferritin (SF), transferrin saturation (TSAT), hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) were assessed at baseline and then again after 4, 8 and 12 weeks of treatment. Results: There were no differences between i.v. and p.o. groups in terms of sex, age, duration of hemodialysis, dialysis frequency per week, EPO dosage per week, the level of intact parathyroid hormone, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, or hematological parameters at baseline. After 8 and 12 weeks of treatment, mean Hb concentration and Hct were significantly increased in the i.v. group, and were also significantly higher than those in the p.o. group. Levels of SF and TSAT were also significantly increased in the i.v. group, and significantly higher than in the p.o. group. After 8 weeks, the response rate in the i.v. group was 88.6%, which was significantly higher than that in the p.o. group. The mean EPO dose was significantly lower in the i.v. group than the p.o. group. Hb, Hct, SF and TSAT levels were maintained between 8 and 12 weeks in the i.v. group despite the decrease in dose frequency. There were no adverse events related to i.v. iron administration. Twenty-two patients in the p.o. group had adverse gastrointestinal effects. After 12 weeks, the cost of EPO + i.v. iron was significantly higher than the cost of EPO + p.o. iron. Conclusion: Intravenous iron sucrose can effectively increase serum iron parameters and Hb levels in Chinese patients on maintenance hemodialysis and is well tolerated. Infusion of i.v. iron sucrose 100 mg per week can maintain serum iron parameters and Hb levels in Chinese patients on maintenance hemodialysis and can permit reductions in the required dose of EPO. However, the total cost of i.v. iron is relatively high.
Behavioural Evidence of Sex-Linked Colour Vision Polymorphism in the Squirrel Monkey Saimiri ustus
Authors: Prado Carolina C. , Pessoa Daniel M.A. , Sousa Flavio Luis L. , Pessoa Valdir F.
Published: January 2008

Squirrel monkeys, like most Neotropical primates, display a sex-linked colour vision polymorphism. Here we assess the colour perception of 8Saimiri ustusby a behavioural paradigm using Munsell colour chips as discriminating stimuli. A random variation in brightness assured that discriminations were based on colour rather than brightness cues. Results indicate that all males showed random performances when presented with stimuli which, in previous experiments with human colour-blind individuals and dichromatic non-human primates, proved to be difficult to discriminate. Females behaved as trichromats. The different phenotypes inS. ustusmay offer diverse advantages in feeding ecology and are in agreement with the existence of vision polymorphism, as described for other species of squirrel monkeys.
Mechanical and Pharmacological Approaches to Investigate the Pathogenesis of Marfan Syndrome in the Abdominal Aorta
Authors: Chung Ada W.Y. , Yang H.H. Clarice , Au Yeung Karen , van Breemen Cornelis
Published: January 2008

Background: Occurrence of disease complications in the abdominal aorta in Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding fibrillin-1, is relatively rare. We hypothesized that Marfan syndrome could affect the structure, vasomotor function and mechanical property of the abdominal aorta. Methods and Results: Abdominal aorta from mice at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of age, heterozygous for the Fbn1 allele encoding a cysteine substitution (Fbn1C1039G/+, Marfan mice, n = 50), were compared with those from age-matched control littermates (n = 50). Marfan abdominal aorta demonstrated pronounced elastic fiber degradation and disorganization, concomitant with an increased aortic stiffness during aging. In the isometric force measurement, vasoconstriction in response to membrane depolarization or phenylephrine stimulation was similar in both Marfan and control abdominal aorta. However, Marfan abdominal aorta was less sensitive to the inhibition of the phenylephrine-induced contraction by indomethacin and SQ-29548, during which the release of thromboxane A2 was one half of that of the controls. Nevertheless, the protein expression of cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 detected by Western immunoblotting was not different between the 2 strains. Conclusions: We demonstrated that Marfan syndrome affected abdominal aorta with respect to matrix elastic fiber organization, aortic stiffness and release of thromboxane A2.
Combined use of clinical pre-test probability and D-dimer test in the diagnosis of preoperative deep venous thrombosis in colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Frøkjær Jens , Nielsen Tina , Larsen Torben , Lundbye-Christensen Søren , Elbrønd Henrik , Thorlacius-Ussing Ole , Stender Mogens
Published: January 2008

The preoperative prevalence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients with colorectal cancer may be as high as 8%. In order to minimize the risk of pulmonary embolism, it is important to rule out preoperative DVT. A large study has confirmed that a negative D-dimer test in combination with a low clinical pre-test probability (PTP) can be safely used to rule out the tentative diagnosis of DVT in cancer patients. However, the accuracy in colorectal cancer patients is uncertain. This study assessed the diagnostic accuracy of a quantitative D-dimer assay in combination with the PTP score in ruling out preoperative DVT in colorectal cancer patients admitted for surgery. Preoperative D-dimer test and compression ultrasonography for DVT were performed in 193 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer. Diagnostic accuracy indices of the D-dimer test were assessed according to the PTP score. The negative predictive value, positive predictive value, sensitivity and specificity were 99% (95% confidence interval (CI), 95–100%), 17% (95% CI, 9–26), 93% (95% CI, 68–100%) and 61% (95% CI, 53–68%), respectively. In conclusion, the combined use of pre-test probability and D-dimer test may be useful in ruling out preoperative DVT in colorectal cancer patients admitted for surgery.
On-line Assessment of Statistical Learning by Event-related Potentials
Authors: Abla Dilshat , Katahira Kentaro , Okanoya Kazuo
Published: January 2008

We investigated the neural processes involved in on-line statistical learning and word segmentation. Auditory event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded while participants were exposed to continuous, nonlinguistic auditory sequences, the elements of which were organized into “tritone words” that were sequenced in random order, with no silent spaces between them. After listening to three 6.6-min sessions of sequences, the participants performed a behavioral choice test, in which they were instructed to indicate the most familiar tone sequence in each test trial by pressing buttons. The participants were divided into three groups (high, middle, and low learners) based on their behavioral performance. The overall mean performance was 74.4%, indicating that the tone sequence was segmented and that the participants learned the tone words statistically. Grand-averaged ERPs showed that word onset (initial tone) elicited the largest N100 and N400 in the early learning session of high learners, but in middle learners, the word-onset effect was elicited in a later session, and there was no effect in low learners. The N400 amplitudes significantly differed between the three learning sessions in the high- and middle-learner groups. The results suggest that the N400 effect indicates not only on-line word segmentation but also the degree of statistical learning. This study provides insight into the neural mechanisms underlying on-line statistical learning processes.
Are Attractive People Rewarding? Sex Differences in the Neural Substrates of Facial Attractiveness
Authors: Cloutier Jasmin , Heatherton Todd F. , Whalen Paul J. , Kelley William M.
Published: January 2008

The current study examined the neural substrates of facial attractiveness judgments. Based on the extant behavioral literature, it was hypothesized that brain regions involved in identifying the potential reward value of a stimulus would be more active when men viewed attractive women than when women viewed attractive men. To test this hypothesis, we conducted an event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging experiment during which participants provided explicit attractiveness judgments for faces of the opposite sex. These individual ratings were subsequently used to perform analyses aimed at identifying the brain regions preferentially responsive to attractive faces for both sex groups. The results revealed that brain regions comprising the putative reward circuitry (e.g., nucleus accumbens [NAcc], orbito-frontal cortex [OFC]) showed a linear increase in activation with increased judgments of attractiveness. However, further analysis also revealed sex differences in the recruitment of OFC, which distinguished attractive and unattractive faces only for male participants.
Induced Electroencephalogram Oscillations during Source Memory: Familiarity is Reflected in the Gamma Band, Recollection in the Theta Band
Authors: Gruber Thomas , Tsivilis Dimitris , Giabbiconi Claire-Marie , Müller Matthias M.
Published: January 2008

Modulations of oscillatory electroencephalogram (EEG) activity in the induced gamma and theta frequency ranges (induced gamma and theta band responses; iGBRs: >30 Hz; iTBRs: ∼6 Hz) have been associated with retrieval of information from long-term memory. However, the specific functional role of these two forms of oscillatory activity remains unclear. The present study examines theta- and gamma-oscillations within a dual-process framework, which defines “familiarity” and “recollection” as the two component processes of recognition memory. During encoding, participants were instructed to make “bigger/smaller than a shoebox” or “living/nonliving” decisions for different object pictures. During retrieval “old/new” recognition was followed (for items judged old) by a source discrimination task regarding the decision made for each item at encoding. iGBRs (35–80 Hz; 210–330 msec) were higher for correctly identified “old” relative to “new” objects. Importantly, they did not distinguish between successful and unsuccessful source judgments. In contrast, iTBRs (4–7.5 Hz; 600–1200 msec) were sensitive to source discrimination. We propose that iGBRs mirror early associative processes linked to familiarity-related retrieval processes, whereas iTBRs reflect later onsetting, episodic, recollection-related mechanisms.
Quantitative Evaluation of CVD Diamond Coating Layer Using Rayleigh-like Waves
Authors: Kwon Sung-Duk , Kim Hak-Joon , Song Sung-Jin , Takagi Toshiyuki , Uchimoto Tetsuya , Abe Toshihiko
Published: January 2008

This work aims to explore the possibility of using generalized Lamb waves for nondestructive evaluation of the bonding quality of layered substrates. For this purpose, CVD diamond specimens with different cleaning conditions are prepared. A dispersion simulation performed for layered substrates with imperfect interfaces is carried out to find out the characteristics of dispersion curves that can be used for bonding quality evaluation. Then the characteristics of dispersion curves of the fabricated specimens are experimentally determined by using an ultrasonic backward radiation measurement technique. The results obtained in the present study show that the lowest velocity mode (Rayleigh-like) of the generalized Lamb waves is sensitively affected by the bonding quality. Therefore, the Rayleigh-like Lamb waves can be applied for nondestructive evaluation of imperfect bonding quality in various layered substrates.
Does Judicial Monitoring Deter Domestic Violence Recidivism?
Authors: Rempel Michael , Labriola Melissa , Davis Robert C.
Published: January 2008

A growing number of courts mandate convicted domestic violence offenders to ongoing judicial monitoring. However, the effectiveness of monitoring has barely been examined with this population. Accordingly, matched samples were created between 387 offenders sentenced to judicial monitoring in the Bronx and 219 otherwise similar offenders whose sentences did not include monitoring. Propensity score matching techniques were used to balance the samples on arrest charges, criminal history, relationship to victim, and other case characteristics. The study found that judicial monitoring failed to reduce the re-arrest rate for any offense, for domestic violence, or for domestic violence with the same victim.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the `Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Instrument' in Hungarian
Authors: Füvesi J. , Bencsik K. , Benedek K. , Mátyás K. , Mészáros E. , Rajda C. , Losonczi E. , Fricska-Nagy Zs , Vécsei L.
Published: January 2008

Health-related quality of life measurements are gaining more importance in the study and clinical practice of multiple sclerosis. The aim of our study was the adaptation of the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Instrument (MSQOL-54) in Hungarian. The study was carried out at the Department of Neurology, University of Szeged and two other multiple sclerosis centers. The Hungarian translation of the questionnaire was given to patients at the outpatient units of the neurology departments. The EDSS score of the patients were determined and data concerning the onset and the clinical form of the disease was collected. Altogether 438 patients filled out the questionnaire. We enrolled patients with all clinical forms of the disease. Cronbach's alpha coefficients were over 0.8 in case of all scales except `Rolelimitations — emotional' (0.794), indicating a good internal consistency reliability for group comparisons. The instrument was able to distinguish between known clinical group differences. The Hungarian version of the MSQOL-54 instrument shows good psychometric properties similar to the original questionnaire. Multiple Sclerosis 2008; 14: 391—398. http://msj.sagepub.com