bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Centrifuge scaling laws of pile response to lateral spreading
Authors: Ubilla J. , Abdoun T. , Dobry R.
Published: May 2011

A number of centrifuge tests have been conducted to study the interaction between liquefied sand under earthquake-induced lateral spreading and pile foundations. Most of those centrifuge models resemble full-scale prototypes from case histories, usually with limited field measurements, while a few of them replicate the conditions of full-scale heavily instrumented laboratory tests. This paper presents the results of centrifuge tests modelling the single pile interaction with liquefied sand conducted at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, and their comparison with the respective large-scale prototype tests conducted at the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention in Tsukuba, Japan. A critical analysis of the scaling laws currently used for this kind of centrifuge tests is included, focusing on the use of viscous fluid for centrifuge model saturation and the validity of the centrifuge scaling laws when shear band development plays an important role in soil–structure interaction. This paper also presents recommendations for pile foundations design against the lateral pressure associated with liquefied sand under lateral spreading.
Validation of boundary PIV measurements of soil–pipe interaction
Authors: Saiyar M. , Take W. A. , Moore I. D.
Published: May 2011

It is a well-established argument that side-wall interface friction can influence the behaviour of soil located at the boundary of physical model test chambers. This effect has a potentially significant influence on measurement techniques such as particle image velocimetry that often rely on images captured at vertical transparent boundaries. However, it is hypothesised that under kinematically controlled boundary conditions, particle image velocimetry can yield not only qualitative but highly accurate quantitative measurements of deformation. In this paper, this hypothesis is tested for the specific soil–structure interaction problem of pipelines being subject to vertical faulting. In the middle of the model, a circular model pipeline was heavily instrumented with 32 pairs of strain gauges. At the same elevation but at the window of the test chamber, an identical model pipeline was split in half axially along its centreline to give a semi-circular cross-section, and placed against the visible window. Three digital cameras were used to record deformations of the pipe and the surrounding soil during the test. After image processing and filtering, measurements of peak curvature obtained from digital image analysis on the half pipeline section are shown to be within 5% of the results obtained from strain gauges.
Rectangular footing on sand subjected to double eccentric load
Authors: Bando R. , Izawa J. , Kusakabe O.
Published: May 2011

This paper describes the results of a series of loading tests of a rectangular footing, with an aspect ratio of two, resting on dry sand and subjected to double eccentricity in a centrifuge. The results indicate that current design practice of calculating failure load of rectangular surface footing excessively underestimates the centrifuge loading test data. This trend is more marked when the eccentricity becomes larger. The decreasing trend in failure load with an increase of double eccentricity is rather uniquely expressed by a single curve, using a newly defined resultant eccentricity and the diagonal length of the footing base. Detailed measurements of progressive change in the contact area between the footing base and the ground were made, and three-dimensional failure mechanisms were also captured and presented for future verification of three-dimensional analysis.
Periodontopathogen and Epstein‐Barr Virus Contamination Affects Transplanted Bone Volume in Sinus Augmentation
Authors: Verdugo Fernando , Castillo Ana , Simonian Krikor , Russo Peter , D'Addona Antonio , Raffaelli Luca , Moragues María D. , Quindós Guillermo , Pontón José
Published: May 2011

Background: Bone microbial contamination can impair osteogenesis. Human herpesviruses‐associated vasculitis can cause vascular damage within the osseous graft and host. This study is conducted to substantiate specific contamination and assess the impact 6 months after sinus augmentation.

Methods: Culture‐ and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based identification were done on harvested bone particles and unstimulated whole saliva in a group of 30 patients undergoing maxillary sinus augmentation. Patients were divided into two groups: those with and those without a history of periodontitis. Radiographic evaluation was done to assess and compare bone healing and volume gain at baseline and 6 months post‐transplantation.

Results: Seventeen patients had a history of periodontitis, and 13 did not. Ten showed culture‐ and PCR‐negative results and belonged to the periodontally healthy group. The 17 patients with periodontitis showed culture‐ or PCR‐positive results for the targeted periodontal pathogens. Patients with periodontitis were 2.3 times more likely to have positive salivary Epstein‐Barr virus type 1 (EBV‐1) than those with no history of periodontitis. The likelihood of having moderate to pronounced bone volume loss 6 months postaugmentation was 7.5 times greater in those patients presenting contamination with ≥3 specific pathogens (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Tannerella forsythia, or Prevotella intermedia) versus those with only one (P <0.05). The odds ratio (OR) of pronounced volume loss was 16.3 times higher in those contaminated with a combination of salivary EBV‐1 and ≥3 of the previously mentioned species versus only EBV‐1 (P <0.05). Individuals showing positive salivary EBV‐1 had bone bacterial contamination associated 57% of the time. The OR of having bone microbial contamination in patients with a history of periodontitis was 37.5 times higher than in individuals without periodontitis.

Conclusions: This study confirms contamination of bone, harvested intraorally, with key periodontopathogens in individuals undergoing sinus augmentation. Specific microbial contamination can impair osteogenesis. Saliva may act as a vehicle to transport EBV and other pathogens into the sinus. Increased bone volume loss seems to be associated with the occurrence of specific periodontal anaerobic species, salivary EBV‐1, or the combination of both.
Inferring Gene Networks using Robust Statistical Techniques
Authors: Nadadoor Venkat R. , Ben-Zvi Amos , Shah Sirish L.
Published: May 2011

Inference of gene networks is an important step in understanding cellular dynamics. In this work, a novel algorithm is proposed for inferring gene networks from gene expression data using linear ordinary differential equations. Under the proposed method, a combination of known statistical tools including partial least squares (PLS), leave-one-out jackknifing, and the Akaike information criterion (AIC) are used for robust estimation of gene connectivity matrix. The proposed approach is tested and validated using a computer simulated gene network model and an experimental data on a nine gene network in Eschericia coli.
A Database on the Mozambican Civil War
Authors: Domingues Patrick
Published: May 2011

Despite the fact that the Mozambican Civil War was one of the most violent civil war, no data is available at the intra-country level pertaining to this conflict. This paper introduces a new micro-level database and proposes a geo-temporal analysis of the evolution of this conflict. This database provides information on the province-level location, the district-level location, and the dates of 1,723 events related to this conflict. It also provides the latitude and longitude for 551 of these events. This database also classifies these collected events and provides the location of 22 rebel bases. Furthermore, this database provides the start and end dates of the conflict for each province, highlighting the differences in the duration of the conflict across the Mozambican provinces.
Characterisation of Potato Slices During Drying: Density, Shrinkage, and Thermodynamic of Sorption
Authors: Chemkhi Saber , Zagrouba Féthi
Published: May 2011

In this study, we are interested in a thermo-physic characterisation during hot air drying of one food product: the potato. The drying kinetics of potato slices are determined at three temperatures and three air velocities. The evolution of the density and the material shrinkage are determined and commented. We finish with the equilibrium moisture relations for the product. From experimental data, we have modeled the desorption isotherms using the GAB model. From the results, we notice that this model perfectly describes the measures with correlation factors superior to 97%. A thermodynamic analysis of isotherms has been made: the heat of sorption is calculated; the entropy of sorption has also been determined and has been commented.
French Automobiles and the Chinese Boycotts of 2008: Politics Really Does Affect Commerce
Authors: Hong Canhui , Hu Wei-Min , Prieger James E. , Zhu Dongming
Published: May 2011

We explore the economic impact of boycotts of French automobiles in China during the time of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Conditions were favorable for a boycott, enabling Chinese consumers to overcome the collective action problems that can prevent boycott success and other voluntary contributions to public goods. We use brand and model level data in a difference-in-difference specification to investigate the boycotts’ effects on sales. A robust pattern of large impacts emerges: sales of French automobile brands fell 25-33 percent or more. Consumers substituted mostly toward Chinese and other Asian cars. The sales of the French models did not experience similar relative sales declines in countries other than China—triple-difference estimates point toward even larger relative loss of market share in China. Our results provide evidence that commerce can be used as an effective political weapon.
Association of Cognitive Function with Albuminuria and eGFR in the General Population
Authors: Joosten Hanneke , Izaks Gerbrand J. , Slaets Joris P.J. , de Jong Paul E. , Visser Sipke T. , Bilo Henk J.G. , Gansevoort Ron T.
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

Recent studies found different associations of cognitive function with albuminuria or estimated GFR (eGFR). Most studies were limited to the elderly or did not take both renal variables into account. Therefore, this study analyzed the association of cognitive function with albuminuria and eGFR in community-dwelling persons aged 35 to 82 years.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This was a cross-sectional study comprising 4095 participants of the Prevention of Renal and Vascular End-Stage Disease (PREVEND) study. Cognitive function, measured with the Ruff Figural Fluency Test (RFFT), was treated as the dependent variable, and albuminuria and eGFR were treated as independent variables.

Results

The prevalence of albuminuria <10, 10 to 29, and ≥30 mg/24 h was 54%, 31%, and 15%, respectively. Mean eGFR (± SD) was 79 ± 15 ml/min per 1.73 m2. Because of interaction between albuminuria and age, analyses were performed per age tertile. After multivariate adjustment, albuminuria ≥ 30 mg/24 h, but not eGFR, was associated with lower RFFT score in the youngest tertile (B −5.3; 95% CI, −0.6 to −9.2; P = 0.05), but not in older tertiles. Moreover, subjects in the youngest tertile with increasing albuminuria (5–15 and >15 mg/24 h) before RFFT measurement had lower mean RFFT scores than subjects with stable albuminuria: mean difference −4.9 (P = 0.3) and −6.7 (P = 0.03), respectively.

Conclusions

In this community-based cohort, elevated albuminuria was associated with worse cognitive function in young but not in old persons. There was no association of eGFR with cognitive function.
Pediatric GFR Estimating Equations Applied to Adolescents in the General Population
Authors: Fadrowski Jeffrey J. , Neu Alicia M. , Schwartz George J. , Furth Susan L.
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

We examined the distribution of estimated GFR (eGFR) in a healthy cohort of adolescents to inform clinical and research use.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Various creatinine-based (n = 3256) and/or cystatin C–based (n = 811) equations, including the recently developed complete and bedside equations from the Chronic Kidney Disease in Children (CKiD) study, were applied to U.S. adolescents 12 to 17 years of age participating in the 1999–2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Results

The median serum creatinine and cystatin C were 0.7 mg/dl and 0.83 mg/L, respectively. The distribution of eGFR varied widely, with the median GFR ranging from a low of 96.6 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (CKiD) to a high of 140.0 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (original Schwartz). The proportions of participants with eGFRs <75 ml/min per 1.73 m2 are as follows: bedside CKiD 8.9%, Counahan 6.3%, Leger 0.4%, original Schwartz 0%, Filler 1.3%, Grubb 3.1%, Bouvet 2.5%, CKiD 1.8%, and Zappitelli 5.6%. By any equation examined, no group of participants with eGFR ≤10th percentile had an increased prevalence of comorbid conditions consistent with a low measured GFR.

Conclusions

Most pediatric-specific GFR estimating equations resulted in 25% to 50% of the participants having an eGFR <100 ml/min per 1.73 m2. However, participants with eGFR in the lower ranges did not have an increased prevalence of morbidities associated with chronic kidney disease. Clinical validation of creatinine- or cystatin C–based estimated GFRs in healthy children is needed before it is possible to screen the general population for chronic kidney disease.
Impact of Pre-Existing Hepatitis B Infection on the Outcomes of Kidney Transplant Recipients in the United States
Authors: Reddy Pavani Naini , Sampaio Marcelo Santos , Kuo Hung-Tien , Martin Paul , Bunnapradist Suphamai
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

Pre-existing hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been associated in inferior renal transplant outcomes. We examined outcomes of HBV+ renal recipients in a more recent era with availability of oral anti-viral agents.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Using the Organ Procurement Transplant Network/United Network for Organ Sharing database, we selected adult primary kidney recipients transplanted in the United States (2001 to 2007). The cohort was divided into HBV+ (surface antigen positive, n = 1346) and HBV− patients (surface antigen negative; n = 74,335). Five-year graft survival, patient survival, hepatic failure incidence, and associated adjusted risks were compared.

Results

HBV+ recipients were more frequently Asian, had a lower body mass index, and glomerulonephritis was more prevalent as the etiology of ESRD. HBV+ recipients had less pretransplant diabetes and cardiovascular disease, were less likely a living donor recipient, and were less likely to receive steroids at discharge. Five-year patient survival was 85.3% and 85.6% and graft survival was 74.9% and 75.1% for HBV+ and HBV−, respectively. HBV infection was not a risk factor for death or kidney failure, although 5-year cumulative incidence of hepatic failure was higher in HBV+ recipients (1.3% versus 0.2%; P < 0.001), and HBV+ was associated with 5.5- and 5.2-fold increased risk for hepatic failure in living and deceased donors, respectively, compared with HBV−.

Conclusions

In a recent era (2001 to 2007), HBV-infected renal recipients were not at higher risk for kidney failure or death; however, they remain at higher risk of liver failure compared with HBV− recipients.
Short-Term Effects of Rituximab in Children with Steroid- and Calcineurin-Dependent Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Ravani Pietro , Magnasco Alberto , Edefonti Alberto , Murer Luisa , Rossi Rossella , Ghio Luciana , Benetti Elisa , Scozzola Floriana , Pasini Andrea , Dallera Nadia , Sica Felice , Belingheri Mirco , Scolari Francesco , Ghiggeri Gian Marco
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

Prednisone and calcineurin inhibitors are the mainstay therapy of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) in children. However, drug dependence and toxicity associated with protracted use are common. Case series suggest that the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab (RTX) may maintain disease remission.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This open-label randomized controlled trial was powered to show that a strategy based on RTX and lower doses of prednisone and calcineurin inhibitors was noninferior to standard doses of these agents in maintaining 3-month proteinuria as low as baseline or up to 1 g/d greater (noninferiority margin). Participants were stratified by the presence of toxicity to prednisone/calcineurin inhibitors and centrally assigned to add RTX (Mabthera, 375 mg/m2 intravenously) to lower doses of standard agents or to continue with current therapy alone. The risk of relapse was a secondary outcome.

Results

Fifty-four children (mean age 11 ± 4 years) with INS dependent on prednisone and calcineurin inhibitors for >12 months were randomized. Three-month proteinuria was 70% lower in the RTX arm (95% confidence interval 35% to 86%) as compared with standard therapy arm (intention-to-treat); relapse rates were 18.5% (intervention) and 48.1% (standard arm) (P = 0.029). Probabilities of being drug-free at 3 months were 62.9% and 3.7%, respectively (P < 0.001); 50% of RTX cases were in stable remission without drugs after 9 months.

Conclusions

Rituximab and lower doses of prednisone and calcineurin inhibitors are noninferior to standard therapy in maintaining short-term remission in children with INS dependent on both drugs and allow their temporary withdrawal.
Familial C3 Glomerulopathy Associated with CFHR5 Mutations
Authors: Athanasiou Yiannis , Voskarides Konstantinos , Gale Daniel P. , Damianou Loukas , Patsias Charalambos , Zavros Michalis , Maxwell Patrick H. , Cook H. Terence , Demosthenous Panayiota , Hadjisavvas Andreas , Kyriacou Kyriacos , Zouvani Ioanna , Pierides Alkis , Deltas Constantinos
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

Complement factor H and related proteins (CFHR) are key regulators of the alternative complement pathway, where loss of function mutations lead to a glomerulopathy with isolated mesangial C3 deposits without immunoglobulins. Gale et al. (12) reported on 26 patients with the first familial, hematuric glomerulopathy caused by a founder mutation in the CFHR5 gene in patients of Cypriot descent living in the United Kingdom. CFHR5 nephropathy is clinically characterized by continuous microscopic hematuria whereas some patients present with additional episodes of synpharyngitic macrohematuria, associated with infection and pyrexia. A subgroup of patients, particularly men, develop additional proteinuria, hypertension, and chronic renal disease or ESRD.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We herewith expand significantly on the study by Gale et al., reporting on histologic, molecular, and clinical findings in 91 patients from 16 families with the same founder mutation.

Results

Eighty-two patients (90%) exhibited microscopic hematuria; 51 (62%), exhibited only microscopic hematuria, whereas the remaining 31 additionally had proteinuria (38%); 28 proteinuric patients developed chronic renal failure (CRF). Among carriers of CFHR5 mutation aged >50 years, 80% of the men and 21% of the women developed CRF; 18 developed ESRD (14 men [78%], 4 women [22%]).

Conclusions

The diagnosis of CFHR5-related, isolated C3 glomerulopathy was established in 2009 using newly described mutation analysis after decades of follow-up with unclear diagnoses, occasionally confused with IgA nephropathy. This larger patient cohort establishes the clinical course, significant variable expressivity, and marked gender difference regarding the development of CRF and ESRD.
Sodium Thiosulfate Pharmacokinetics in Hemodialysis Patients and Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Farese Stefan , Stauffer Emilie , Kalicki Robert , Hildebrandt Tatjana , Frey Brigitte M. , Frey Felix J. , Uehlinger Dominik E. , Pasch Andreas
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

Vascular calcification is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in dialysis patients. Human and animal studies indicate that sodium thiosulfate (STS) may prevent the progression of vascular calcifications. The pharmacokinetics of STS in hemodialysis patients has not been investigated yet.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

STS was given intravenously to 10 hemodialysis patients on- and off-hemodialysis. Additionally, STS was applied to 9 healthy volunteers once intravenously and once orally. Thiosulfate concentrations were measured by using a specific and sensitive HPLC method.

Results

In volunteers and patients, mean endogenous thiosulfate baseline concentrations were 5.5 ± 1.82 versus 7.1 ± 2.7 μmol/L. Renal clearance was high in volunteers (1.86 ± 0.45 ml/min per kg) and reflected GFR. Nonrenal clearance was slightly, but not significantly, higher in volunteers (2.25 ± 0.32 ml/min per kg) than in anuric patients (2.04 ± 0.72 ml/min per kg). Hemodialysis clearance of STS was 2.62 ± 1.01 ml/min per kg. On the basis of the nonrenal clearance and the thiosulfate steady-state serum concentrations, a mean endogenous thiosulfate generation rate of 14.6 nmol/min per kg was calculated in patients. After oral application, only 4% of STS was recovered in urine of volunteers, reflecting a low bioavailability of 7.6% (0.8% to 26%).

Conclusions

Given the low and variable bioavailability of oral STS, only intravenous STS should be prescribed today. The biologic relevance of the high hemodialysis clearance for the optimal time point of STS dosing awaits clarification of the mechanisms of action of STS.
Dialyzer Reuse with Peracetic Acid Does Not Impact Patient Mortality
Authors: Bond T. Christopher , Nissenson Allen R. , Krishnan Mahesh , Wilson Steven M. , Mayne Tracy
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

Numerous studies have shown the overall benefits of dialysis filter reuse, including superior biocompatibility and decreased nonbiodegradable medical waste generation, without increased risk of mortality. A recent study reported that dialyzer reprocessing was associated with decreased patient survival; however, it did not control for sources of potential confounding. We sought to determine the effect of dialyzer reprocessing with peracetic acid on patient mortality using contemporary outcomes data and rigorous analytical techniques.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We conducted a series of analyses of hemodialysis patients examining the effects of reuse on mortality using three techniques to control for potential confounding: instrumental variables, propensity-score matching, and time-dependent survival analysis.

Results

In the instrumental variables analysis, patients at high reuse centers had 16.2 versus 15.9 deaths/100 patient-years in nonreuse centers. In the propensity-score matched analysis, patients with reuse had a lower death rate per 100 patient-years than those without reuse (15.2 versus 15.5). The risk ratios for the time-dependent survival analyses were 0.993 (per percent of sessions with reuse) and 0.995 (per unit of last reuse), respectively. Over the study period, 13.8 million dialyzers were saved, representing 10,000 metric tons of medical waste.

Conclusions

Despite the large sample size, powered to detect miniscule effects, neither the instrumental variables nor propensity-matched analyses were statistically significant. The time-dependent survival analysis showed a protective effect of reuse. These data are consistent with the preponderance of evidence showing reuse limits medical waste generation without negatively affecting clinical outcomes.
No Confederates Needed: Social Comparison Without Collaboration
Authors: Mori Kazuo , Mori Hideko
Published: May 2011

A new experimental procedure for conducting social comparison experiments was developed to create artificially good and bad performers without the use of confederates. Anagram tasks of 2 different difficulty levels were presented using the fMORI technique (Mori, 2007) such that 2 tasks
were viewed separately by 2 groups of viewers wearing different types of polarizing sunglasses. Those shown easier tasks would unwittingly perform those tasks better than the other group. Administration of the new procedure to replicate that used by Alicke, LoSchiavo, Zerbst, and Zhang (1997)
with 40 mutually acquainted Japanese undergraduates showed that the new paradigm successfully created good and bad performers as expected. No participant noticed the trick. The results also showed that the participants attributed their performance to their own ability.
Ghrelin endocrine cells in the human stomach during prenatal and early postnatal development
Authors: Mitrovic Olivera , Micic Mileva , Todorovic Vera , Radenkovic G. , Vignjevic Sanja , Djikic Dragoslava , Budec Mirela , Brekovic Tijana
Published: May 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the appearance, localization and
density of ghrelin cells in the human stomach during prenatal development.
For this purpose the antrum and corpus of embryos, fetuses and infants are
stained immunohistochemically by the streptavidin-biotin technique. The
presence of P/D1 cells at 11 weeks of fetal development, their highest
density during the first detection and higher density in the corpus than in
antrum, and their localization in the glandular base of stomach gland, all
suggest that ghrelin plays a major role in the early stages of the developing
stomach.
Characterization and antimicrobial activity of vaginal lactobacillus isolate
Authors: Zavisic Gordana , Radulovic Zeljka , Vranic Valentina , Begovic Jelena , Topisirovic L. , Strahinic Ivana
Published: May 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the probiotic potential of
bacteriocin-producing lactobacilli strain Lactobacillus plantarum G2 isolated
from the vaginal mucus of healthy women. The antimicrobial effect of G2 was
confirmed in the mixed culture with pathogenic Escherichia coli,
Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella abony and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while
bacteriocine activity was detected against S. aureus and S. abony only. The
strain showed an excellent survival rate in low pH and in the presence of
bile salts. The percentage of adhered cells of L. plantarum G2 to hexadecane
was 63.85?2.0 indicating the intermediate hydrophobicity.
The neuropsychology of hallucinations
Authors: Pavlovic D.M. , Pavlovic Aleksandra , Lackovic Maja
Published: May 2011

Hallucinations are a psychopathological phenomenon with neuropsychological,
neuroanatomical and pathophysiological correlates in specific brain areas.
They can affect any of the senses, but auditory and visual hallucinations
predominate. Verbal hallucinations reveal no gross organic lesions while
visual hallucinations are connected to defined brain lesions. Functional
neuroimaging shows impairments in modality specific sensory systems with the
hyperactivity of the surrounding cerebral cortex. Disinhibition and expansion
of the inner speech was noted with impaired internal monitoring in auditory
verbal hallucinations. The subcortical areas and modal-specific associative
cortex and cingulate cortex are essential for the occurrence of
hallucinations.
Effects of bacterial lipopolysaccharide exposure on immune responsiveness in a rodent model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Hritcu L. , Stefan M. , Misaila Costica , Ciobica A. , Dumitru Gabriela
Published: May 2011

The effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on immune modulation in rats
subjected to a right-unilateral lesion of the substantia nigra neurons by
means of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), were investigated. LPS administration
(250 ?g) significantly decreases the total number of leukocytes and
erythrocytes, as well as the hemoglobin level in the 6-OHDAlesioned rats. In
addition, LPS administration was also associated with an increase, relative
to control, in the erythrocyte indexes and the phagocytosis by neutrophils,
and in blastic transformation of T lymphocytes. The obtained data indicated
that LPS exposure might represent a risk factor for the development of the
immunological changes associated with Parkinson?s disease.
Correlation of the sperm penetration assay (SPA) and miscarriage after assisted reproduction: The potential use of spa as a new criterion for preimplantation genetic diagnosis
Authors: Gradistanac Jelena , Wikarczuk Maria , Somkuti S.G. , Barmat L.I. , Schinfeld Jay , Smith S.E.
Published: May 2011

We analyzed 93 couples undergoing male screening with the Sperm Penetration
Assay (SPA) before in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm
injection (ICSI), to determine the accuracy of SPA for subsequent embryonic
development, incidence of pregnancy and miscarriage rates (SAB). ICSI
patients with the lowest SPA scores had significantly higher incidences of
Sthan did patients in the other SPA groups. Sperm quality is higher with
better SPA scores. Poor sperm quality has increased incidence of chromosomal
abnormalities and is associated with early fetal loss. Couples with negative
SPA are candidates for preimplantation genetic diagnosis, to reduce the
incidence of SAB.
Sex dimorphism of postural parameters of the human acetabulum
Authors: Jeremic D. , Jovanovic B. , Zivanovic-Macuzic Ivana , Djordjevic Gordana , Sazdanovic Maja , Djordjevic M. , Sazdanovic P. , Vulovic Maja , Tosevski J.
Published: May 2011

The aim of this investigation was to examine normal acetabular morphometry,
its sex dimorphism and the acetabular dysplasia rate in Serbian adults. For
each hip, the centre-edge angle of Wiberg, the acetabular angle of Sharp,
acetabular depth and acetabular roof obliquity were measured. The center-edge
angle of Wiberg correlated negatively with the acetabular angle of Sharp and
acetabular roof obliquity, but positively correlated with acetabular depth.
Our results suggest that the prevalence of acetabular dysplasia in the
Serbian population is lower than in Western countries. We confirmed the
existence of significant gender differences in acetabular morphology among
the subjects of our study. These sex-related differences in acetabular
morphology were the cause for more dysplastic female acetabula compared with
male acetabula.
The genetic potential of mother trees as a basis for Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Atropurpureum’ plant production
Authors: Sijacic-Nikolic Mirjana , Ocokoljic Mirjana , Vilotic Dragica , Milovanovic Jelena
Published: May 2011

Sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) is one of the most valuable species
of Serbia?s noble hardwoods. Based on the results of previous research, it
can be concluded that this is a species with a pronounced ecological
plasticity and high genetic potential. From the aspect of ornamentalness, one
of the most frequent cultivars in urban green spaces and tree rows is the cv
?Atropurpureum?, also known as ?Spaethii? or ?Purpureum?. It is distinguished
by dark green leaf adaxials and purple undersides, which give the crown an
extraordinarily attractive appearance. The genetic potential of the analyzed
mother trees can be used for the mass production of the Acer pseudoplatanus
?Atropurpureum? and Acer pseudoplatanus plants needed for urban green area
maintenance and creation of tree rows. Special attention should be paid to
the potential of mother trees 5 and 3; their descendants, along with purple
leaf undersides, also have high average height values for five-year old
plants.
Effect of a static magnetic field on the fractal complexity of bursting activity of the Br neuron in the snail detected by factor analysis
Authors: Spasic S. , Nikolic L. , Mutavdzic D.
Published: May 2011

In the present work we report a new combination of fractal analysis and some
advanced statistical methods and their application for the quantitative
detection of the effects of a static magnetic field of 2.7 mT on fractal
complexity changes of Br neuron activity in the subesophageal ganglia of the
garden snail Helix pomatia. We used factor analysis (FA) in the analysis of
the empirical distribution of fractal dimension (FD). FA showed that there
are two factors in the empirical distribution of FD. Results indicated that
the significant changes in the fractal complexity of Br neuron activity
occurred during treatment with a magnetic field, were extended to the post
exposure period.
Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in the digestive gland and gills of the freshwater bivalve Unio pictorum from the Sava river
Authors: Borkovic-Mitic Slavica , Kovacevic Tijana , Perendija Branka , Despotovic Svetlana , Gavric Jelena , Pavlovic S.Z. , Saicic Zorica
Published: May 2011

We investigated the potential use of the antioxidant defense enzymes in
freshwater mussel (Unio pictorum) as biomarkers of oxidative stress. The
enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD, EC 1.15.1.1) and catalase
(CAT, EC 1.11.1.6), total protein concentration in addition to protein and
SOD electrophoretic profiles were examined in the digestive gland and gills
of the freshwater bivalve Unio pictorum at two localities on the River Sava.
The differences between SOD and CAT activities in examined tissues of
freshwater bivalve Unio pictorum reflect dissimilar metabolic and
antioxidative activities and this can be the result of both tissue or
locality specificities and diverse ecophysiological influences on the
organism.
Two new pseudoscorpions from the un administered province of Kosovo and Croatia
Authors: Curcic B.P.M. , Radja T. , Dimitrijevic R.N. , Makarov S.E. , Milincic M. , Pecelj M.
Published: May 2011

Two new epigean pseudoscorpion species belonging to the family Chthoniidae -
Chthonius (Ephippiochthonius) metohicus n. sp. and Chthonius
(Ephippiochthonius) civitatisveti n. sp. from the UN Administered Province of
Kosovo and Southern Croatia, respectively, are described. The newly erected
taxa are endemic to each of the areas studied. Their taxonomic relationship
with their phenetically close congeners Chthonius (Ephippiochthonius)
bidentatus Beier, 1939, Chthonius (Ephippiochthonius) kemza Curcic, Lee et
Makarov, 1993 and Chthonius (Ephippiochthonius) tetrachelatus (Preyssler,
1790) and comparative morphological traits are described.
Chthonius (Globochthonius) Medeonis n. sp.: A new cave false scorpion from Montenegro
Authors: Curcic B.P.M. , Curcic S.B. , Curcic Nina , Ilic B.S.
Published: May 2011

The pseudoscorpion sample from a cave in Montenegro has been studied. A new
species, Chthonius (Globochthonius) medeonis n. sp. is described. A
reanalysis of the type material of Chthonius (Ephippiochthonius) polychaetus
Hadzi supports its transfer to the subgenus Chthonius (Globochthonius Beier).
The species studied is considered to be endemic to the Balkan Peninsula. The
diagnostic characteristics of the analyzed taxon are thoroughly described or
figured. Taxonomic interrelationships and geographic distribution are briefly
discussed.
Morphometric traits of the yellow honeybee (Apis mellifera carnica) from Vojvodina (Northern Serbia)
Authors: Mladenovic M. , Rados Renata , Stanisavljevic L.Z. , Rasic S.
Published: May 2011

The morphometric traits of the yellow honeybee from Vojvodina were researched
in this study. Samples were collected at seven locations: Banatsko
Arandjelovo, Fruska Gora, Vladimirovci, Markovac and Vrsac. Each sample
contained 50 bees whose body parts were prepared, scanned and measured using
computer software. The average values of the measured parameters were: tongue
length (6.12 mm), right-wing length (9.07 mm) and width (3.13 mm), number of
wing hooks on the rear right-wing (21.44), cubital index (2,40), length (2.04
mm) and width (1.09 mm) of basitarsus of rear right leg, corbicula area (0.79
mmI), length (2.17 mm) and width (4.86 mm) of the third tergite, length (1.31
mm) and width (2.41 mm) of wax plate mirror. The obtained values of the
observed parameters were consistent with the values that are characteristic
to the Carniolan race of honeybees (Apis mellifera carnica Poll).
Review of invasive grapevine aphid, Aphis illinoisensis Shimer, and native parasitoids in the Mediterranean (Hemiptera, Aphididae; Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Aphidiinae)
Authors: Havelka J. , Shukshuk A.H. , Ghaliow M.E. , La Amari , Kavallieratos N.G. , Tomanovic Z. , Rakhshani E. , Pons X. , Starý P.
Published: May 2011

A summary of the study of Aphis illinoisensis Shimer on grapes, Vitis
vinifera in the Mediterranean area brings references and new findings on its
distribution in Crete/Greece, Turkey, Northern Cyprus, Malta, Israel,
Montenegro, Tunisia, Algeria and Libya. Parasitoids of A. illinoisensis were
only occasionally found (Aphidius matricariae Hal. - Cyprus, Turkey, Greece;
Aphidius colemani Viereck - Libya; Lysiphlebus testaceipes Cress. -
Algeria). Of the native species, i.e. A. colemani, and others similar to the
native species, L. testaceipes seem to be a promising biocontrol agent
within the framework of an ecologically friendly management in the area.
Given the evidence of its expansion, A. illinoisensis is expected to expand
further in several directions from the recently documented invaded area to
all the grape-growing areas of the Mediterranean and even those of
South-Eastern and Central Europe.
Comparison of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of extracts obtained from Salvia glutinosa L. and Salvia officinalis L.
Authors: Velickovic Dragan , Karabegovic Ivana , Stojicevic Sasa , Lazic Miodrag , Marinkovic Valentina , Veljkovic Vlada
Published: May 2011

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities as well as total phenols and
flavonoids contents of Salvia glutinosa L. (glutinous sage) and Salvia
officinalis L. (sage) extracts were studied. Methanol and aqueous ethanol
(70% v/v) were used for extraction of bioactive compounds, both in the
presence and the absence of ultrasound, from herb and the spent plant
material remaining after the essential oil hydrodistillation. The ratio of
plant material to extracting solvent was 1:10 g/ml. Antioxidant and
antimicrobial activities of the extracts were found to depend on the type of
plant material and the extraction conditions. The plant materials from which
essential oil had been recovered were proven to be valuable raw materials for
making various herbal preparations.
Informed Trading and the Market Reaction to Accounting Restatements
Authors: Badertscher Brad A , Hribar S. Paul , Jenkins Nicole Thorne
Published: May 2011

We examine how informed trading activities affect the market reaction to accounting restatements. We find significantly less negative reactions to accounting restatements when managers are net purchasers of stock before the restatement, and significantly more negative market reactions when managers are net sellers. Similar patterns characterize corporate trading, where prior stock repurchases dampen negative reactions and prior equity issuances increase negative reactions to the restatement. We address the possibility of reverse causality in which informed trades are undertaken because of the expected market reaction by examining the difference between disclosed and non-disclosed trades, finding that the market reaction is concentrated in the disclosed trades. Our results are incremental to general return patterns associated with insider trading and corporate equity transactions, and hold after controlling for other determinants of the market reaction to restatements. Taken together, these findings suggest that investors use informed trading activities to help interpret and price accounting restatements.

JEL Classifications: M41, M42.

Data Availability: Data are publicly available from the sources identified in the study.
On Testing Business Models
Authors: Huelsbeck David P , Merchant Kenneth A , Sandino Tatiana
Published: May 2011

This study explores decisions related to formal empirical tests of business models and interpretations and uses of those tests. Business models describe managers' rationales as to how their organizations will achieve success. This study documents a test of one company's business model under seemingly favorable conditions for such a test—a successful single-product firm following a consistent strategy over a long period of time with stable management and publicly traded stock. Although the findings provide only weak support for the hypothesized business model, the confidence of the company's top managers in their business model remained high. Further analyses reveal that the managers' response to the test results is consistent with that expected of Bayesian-rational agents. Our analyses provide the basis for development of a framework for understanding the expected value of testing business models in various circumstances. This framework might explain apparent contradictions between previous studies containing normative statements regarding the value of testing business models.

Data Availability: The data used in this study are derived from a proprietary dataset and public sources.
Voluntary Audits versus Mandatory Audits
Authors: Lennox Clive S , Pittman Jeffrey A
Published: May 2011

Exploiting a natural experiment in which voluntary audits replace mandatory audits for U.K. private companies, we analyze whether imposing audits suppresses valuable information about the types of companies that would voluntarily choose to be audited. We control for the assurance benefits of auditing to isolate the role signaling plays by focusing on companies that are audited under both regimes. These companies experience no change in audit assurance, although they can now reveal for the first time their desire to be audited. We find that these companies attract upgrades to their credit ratings because they send a positive signal by submitting to an audit when this is no longer legally required. In contrast, companies that dispense with being audited suffer downgrades to their ratings because avoiding an audit sends a negative signal and removes its assurance value.

Data Availability: All data are available from public sources.
Modular and functionally-different descending recto-anal motor pathways in a rat model
Authors: Stavreva Galya , Nedialkova Neli , Negrev Negrin , Maslarov Dimitar , Radomirov Radomir
Published: May 2011

We evaluated the motor responses in recto-anal preparations obtained from rats, in terms of the excitation displayed by modules of nerve networks and descending distally directed pathways, when subjected to the mechanographic on-line technique, a partitioned organ bath, electrical stimulation (EFS, 0.8 ms, 5 Hz) and distension. EFS elicited modular contractions, which increased in amplitude distally, in circular muscle rings isolated from the proximal, middle or distal rectum. The modular responses of the internal anal sphincter or anal canal were relaxation or contraction, respectively. The application of EFS to the distal rectum induced a descending contractile response in the anal canal (5.24±0.34 mN), while distension by balloon evoked a descending response consisting of contraction (1.72±0.20 mN) followed by relaxation (3.42±0.24 mN). The responses were sensitive to tetrodotoxin. Atropine considerably depressed the contractions in all preparations. Whether or not atropine was present, L-NNA increased the excitatory responses, while L-arginine decreased the contractions and extended the relaxation of internal anal sphincter and anal canal. The results suggest that excitatory neurotransmission(s) expressed in the distal rectum dominate modular nerve networks. Functionally-different descending pathways are involved in the motor activity of the anal canal. Stimulatory cholinergic pathways are dependent on the electrically-induced excitation, and inhibitory nitrergic pathways are sensitive to distension of rectal wall.
A middle-age woman with subcutaneous plaque and hilar adenopathies
Authors: Husein-ElAhmed Husein , Callejas-Rubio Jose-Luis , Ortego-Centeno Norberto
Published: May 2011

Subcutaneous sarcoidosis (SS) is an unusual and specific subtype of nodular sarcoidosis 1. The presence of SS with no elements of systemic manifestations is a rare condition: it is reported only in 1.4% to 6% of patients with systemic sarcoidosis, with the trunk being the most predilected area. Such cases with rare presentation are challenging for physicians because it can mimic several chronic infections, amyloidosis, hypothyroidism, lysosomal storage diseases and other conditions. Typical imaging (specially bilateral hilar adenopathies), histological exam and laboratory findings are the baseline to establish the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. In our case, the presence of subcutaneous manifestations avoided the performance of invasive procedures to get confirmation from other target organs: The epithelioid cells granulommas in subcutaneous fat and the representative radiological images were enough features to make the certain diagnosis. The first-line therapy for SS is oral steroids (20–40 mgr/day) with responses observed only 4–8 weeks after initiation of the treatment2. Prognosis of SS is good with spontaneous remission in some cases; however, when granulommas or fibrosis involves vital organs sarcoidosis can be life-threatening. Physicians should consider diagnosis of SS in patients with clinical suspicious history as sometimes skin manifestations are the first sign of systemic presentation of disease
The medical career choice motivations — Results from a Hungarian study
Authors: Girasek Edmond , Molnár Regina , Eke Edit , Szócska Miklós
Published: May 2011

Some decades ago being a medical doctor was characterized unambiguously as a profession that offers help and serves the patients’ needs during medical treatment. In today’s society, this image of the medical profession has been substantially changed. The present paper aims to examine medical career choice motivations and preferences of choosing speciality, in the light of current social and economic changes in Hungary. The study was carried out by using a voluntary, self-administrated, questionnaire among first-year medical students and resident doctors in four medical faculties in Hungary. The career choice motivations of the first-year medical students and resident doctors are similar and match to the traditional health profession career choice motivations. Nevertheless the first-year students consider high income as one of the most important factors. They appear more conscious and more ambitious regarding their future speciality choice. The Hungarian health care system and medical education must be prepared for the presence of students that are aware of the high market value of a medical diploma, have excellent language skills, and consider migration as one main factor in their motivation when choosing a medical profession.
Composition and vertical distribution of free living and plant parasitic nematodes in hop gardens in the Czech Republic
Authors: Čermák V. , Gaar V. , Háněl L. , Široká K.
Published: May 2011

Composition and vertical distribution of soil nematode communities within soil profile were investigated in eight hop gardens in Czech Republic. In total, the presence of 78 nematode genera was confirmed. Genus Drilocephalobus (Coomans & Coomans, 1990) is new for fauna of the Czech Republic. The highest abundance of soil nematodes was found at a depth of 0–10 cm and declined with increasing depth of soil profile. The most dominant genus was Bitylenchus, followed by genera Acrobeloides, Ditylenchus, Chiloplacus and Cervidelus. Ten genera of plant parasitic nematodes were recorded: Bitylenchus (with prevalence of B. dubius), Helicotylenchus, Heterodera (with absolute prevalence of H. humuli), Geocenamus, Longidorella, Longidorus (only L. elongatus), Merlinius (with prevalence of M. brevidens), Paratylenchus and Pratylenchus. Low population densities of predators and omnivores, low values of the community indices (MI, ΣMI, SI, and CI), and high values of NCR, EI, and PPI/MI ratio indicated disturbed nematode communities in hop gardens and bacteria-dominated decomposition pathways in the soil food web.
W. Charles Holland, 75th birthday
Authors: Ball Richard , Glass A. , Martínez Jorge , McCleary Stephen
Published: May 2011

This issue of Mathematica Slovaca is in honour of W. Charles Holland’s 75th birthday. We present here a brief account of some of his research (to date) and a couple of brief personal sketches of the man.