bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haematological alterations induced by biochemical fractions of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in mice
Authors: Hamdan Júnia Soares , Resende M. A. , Franzot S. P. , Cisalpino E. O.
Published: July 2010

Zusammenfassung. Von Paracoccidioides brasiliensis wurden biochemische Faktionen zur experimentellen Inokulation in Mäuse und zur hämatologischen Analyse hergestellt. Die geprüften Präparationen waren: Abgetötete ganze Pilzzellen, Ultraschall‐Homogenat der Pilzzellen, Lipidextrakt, Überstand der Lipidausfällung, lipidfreie Ganzzellen, lipidfreies Ultraschall‐Homogenat. Ausgangsmaterial der sechs Fraktionen waren lyophilisierte Zellen der Hefephase eines frischen P. brasiliensis‐Isolats sowie eines Pools aus vier langfristig aufbewahrten Laborstämmen. Unterschiedliche Dosen dieser 12 Fraktionen wurden Mäusen intraperitoneal inokuliert und 30 Tage spärer die hämatologische Analyse durchgeführt. Im roten Blutbild wurden keine signifikanten Änderungen gefunden. Im weißen Blutbild fanden sich jedoch beträchtliche Veränderungen, wie Leukopenie, relative Neutrophilie und Lymphopenie. Eine Thrombozytose trat in weiten Bereichen auf. Die beobachteten hämatologischen Veränderungen waren dosisabhängig ohne Beziehung zur biochemischen Beschaffenheit der einzelnen Fraktionen. Zwischen den Präparaten aus dem Frischisolat und aus den Laborstämmen wurde kein Unterschied in den hämatologischen Befunden gesehen.

Summary. Biochemical fractions of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis were obtained for experimental inoculation in mice followed by haematological analysis. Dead total fungus, total fungus disrupted by ultrasonic waves, lipids of the fungus, supernatant of the lipid purification, and integral and disrupted fungus free of lipids were obtained. The six fractions were obtained from lyophilized yeasts of a recent isolate of P. brasiliensis and from a pool comprising equal amounts of four strains maintained in the laboratory for some time. Different doses of the 12 fractions were intraperi‐toneally inoculated into mice and haematological analysis was done 30 days later. No significant alterations were detected in the red blood cell series. However, the white blood cell series showed marked alterations, such as leukopenia, with relative neutrophilia and lymphopenia. Thrombocytosis occurred widely. The haematological alterations revealed associations with the injected doses without relation to the biochemical composition of the different fractions. No difference in the capacity for inducing haematological alterations was found between the fractions obtained from the recent isolate and from the older ones.
Purification and characterization of protease enzymes of Basidiobolus and Conidiobolus species
Authors: Okafor Josephine I.
Published: July 2010

Summary. The protease enzymes produced by one strain of each of Basidiobolus haptosporus, B. ranarum and Conidiobolus coronatus were purified by precipitation and Sephadex G‐100 gel filtration chromatography. The enzymes prepared were characterized in terms of their specific activities and temperature and pH optima as well as their molecular weights. All three fungi produced one protease of 23 000 Da molecular weight. Conidiobolus coronatus additionally secreted a second protease of 32 000 Da molecular weight.

Zusammenfassung. Die von je einem Stamm von Basidiobolus haptosporas, B. ranarum und Conidiobolus coronatus produzitrten Proteasen wurden über Präzipitation und Sephadex G‐100‐Gelfiltrations‐chromatographie gereinigt. Die dargestellten Enzyme wurden dann hinsichtlich ihrer spezifischen Aktivität, ihrer Temperatur‐ und pH‐Optima sowie ihres Molekulargewichts charakterisiert. Alle drei Stämme produzierten eine Protease von 23 000 Da Molekulargewicht. Conidiobolus coronatus sezenierte zusätzlich eine zweite Protease von 32 000 Da Molekulargewicht.
Euphorbia hirta leaves and Musa sapientum fruits in culture media for fungi: Wolfsmilchblätter und Bananenfrüchte in Selektivmedien für Pilze
Authors: Emele F. E. , Agbonlahor D. E. , Ahanotu C.
Published: July 2010

Summary. Two plant products, Euphorbia hirta leaves and fruits of Musa sapientum, were evaluated as principal ingredients for selective cultivation of fungi. Sapientum glucose agar supported the growth of both dermatophytic, yeast‐like, and saprophytic fungi; growth on this medium compared favourably with growth on Sabouraud glucose agar, a standard mycological medium. Sporulation and pigment formation were stronger on sapientum glucose agar than on Sabouraud glucose agar, although fungal growth on the latter was more luxuriant. Addition of Euphorbia extract to mycological media remarkably enhanced fungal growth on the media, and concomitantly suppressed bacterial growth to a similar extent as did antibiotics. The results of this study suggest that Euphorbia sapientum glucose agar can safely be recommended as a cheap and efficient medium for routine isolation of fungi in both clinical and general mycological studies.

Zusammenfassung. Blätter von Euphorbia hirta und Früchte von Musa sapientum, wurden in ihrer Eigenschaft als Bestandteile von Selektivmedien für Pilze bewertet. Sapientum‐Glucose‐Agar förderte das Wachstum sowohl von Dermatophyten als auch von Hefen und Schimmelpilzen; die Wachstumsintensität auf diesem Medium war gut vergleichbar mit dem auf dem mykologischen Standardmedium Sabouraud‐Glucose‐Agar. Sporulierung und Pigmentbildung waren auf Sapientum‐Glucose‐Agar besser als auf Sabouraud‐Glucose‐Agar. Der Zusatz von Euphorbia‐Extrakt hemmte dagegen merklich das Pilzwachstum, unterdrückte aber gleichzeitig Bakterienwachstum vergleichbar einem Antibiotika‐Zusatz. Die Ergebnisse dieser Studies belegen, daßEuphorbia spaientum‐Glucose‐Agar als billiges und brauchbares Medium für die Routine‐Isolierung von Pilzen sowohl in klinischen als auch in allgemeinmykologischen Laboratorien eingesetzt werden kann.
STUDIES ON THE HISTOGENESIS OF EARLY GASTRIC CANCER
Authors: Murakami Tadashige
Published: July 2010

Of the 300 stomach specimens resected at the Fukuda Surgery of Tokyo University since Sept., 1947, 197 cases of gastric cancer were found, and from these the very earliest gastric cancer specimens were selected for the histological study of the development and growth of gastric cancer (10). In 2 of these it seemed that the form of development of gastric cancer was shown in the most convenient way. Of course, in both of these cases the histologic picture was what should be called carcinoma in situ(8).

In regard to the development of carcinoma in situ, Konjetzny(5,6) stated that the mother body is a diffuse atrophic or atrophic‐hyperplastic gastritis while Bertrand(4) explained that it is due to “Degenerescence in situ,” developing in localized specific gastritis. Ewing(2) is also trying to recognize the development from a special cancerigenic atrophic‐hyperplastic gastritis as a mode of development of gatric cancer.

For the purpose of analyzing more clearly and also stereoscopically the relation between carcinoma in situ focus selected in the way mentioned above and the surrounding part of the focus, the author made serial sections and was able to come to a certain conclusion.

At first, the author is going to describe these cases.
Prandial–basal insulin regimens plus oral antihyperglycaemic agents to improve mealtime glycaemia: initiate and progressively advance insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Jain S. M. , Mao X. , Escalante‐Pulido M. , Vorokhobina N. , Lopez I. , Ilag L. L.
Published: July 2010

Aims: To compare two progressive approaches [once‐daily insulin glargine plus ≤3 mealtime lispro (G+L) vs. insulin lispro mix 50/50 (LM50/50) progression once up to thrice daily (premix progression, PP)] of beginning and advancing insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and inadequate glycaemic control on oral therapy, with the aim of showing non‐inferiority of PP to G+L.

Methods: Patients were randomized to PP (n = 242) or G+L (n = 242) in a 36‐week, multinational, open‐label trial. Dinnertime insulin LM 50/50 could be replaced with insulin lispro mix 75/25 if needed for fasting glycaemic control.

Results: Baseline haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were 9.5% (PP) and 9.3% (G+L); p = 0.095. Change in A1C (baseline to endpoint) was −1.76% (PP) and −1.93% (G+L) (p = 0.097) [between‐group difference of 0.17 (95% confidence interval: −0.03, 0.37)]. Non‐inferiority of PP to G+L was not shown based on the prespecified non‐inferiority margin of 0.3%. A1C was lower with G+L at weeks 12 (7.8 vs. 7.9%; p = 0.042), 24 (7.4 vs. 7.6%; p = 0.046), but not at week 36 (7.5 vs. 7.6%; p = 0.405). There were no significant differences in percentages of patients achieving A1C ≤7%, overall hypoglycaemia incidence and rate or weight change. Total daily insulin dosages at endpoint were higher with PP vs. G+L (0.57 vs. 0.51 U/kg; p = 0.017), likely due to more injections (1.98 vs. 1.79; p = 0.011).

Conclusions: Both treatments progressively improved glycaemic control in patients with T2D on oral therapy, although non‐inferiority of PP to G+L was not shown. Higher insulin doses were observed with PP with no between‐treatment differences in overall hypoglycaemia or weight gain.
Compensation Management in Outsourced Service Organizations and Its Implications for Quit Rates, Absenteeism and Workforce Performance: Evidence from Canadian Call Centres
Authors: van Jaarsveld Danielle D. , Yanadori Yoshio
Published: July 2010

We investigate compensation management in in‐house and outsourced call centres with original establishment‐level data collected in Canada. Our analysis reveals that both customer service representatives (CSRs) and managers employed in outsourced call centres earn 91 per cent of the cash pay earned by their in‐house counterparts. Lower cash pay levels in outsourced call centres are related to higher CSR quit rates and absenteeism. Although CSR cash pay is associated with improved workforce performance, the disparity in cash pay between in‐house and outsourced call centres does not result in a significant difference in workforce performance.
FEATURE TRANSFORMATION: A GENETIC‐BASED FEATURE CONSTRUCTION METHOD FOR DATA SUMMARIZATION
Authors: Alfred Rayner
Published: July 2010

The importance of input representation has been recognized already in machine learning. This article discusses the application of genetic‐based feature construction methods to generate input data for the data summarization method called Dynamic Aggregation of Relational Attributes (DARA). Here, feature construction methods are applied to improve the descriptive accuracy of the DARA algorithm. The DARA algorithm is designed to summarize data stored in the nontarget tables by clustering them into groups, where multiple records stored in nontarget tables correspond to a single record stored in a target table. This article addresses the question whether or not the descriptive accuracy of the DARA algorithm benefits from the feature construction process. This involves solving the problem of constructing a relevant set of features for the DARA algorithm by using a genetic‐based algorithm. This work also evaluates several scoring measures used as fitness functions to find the best set of constructed features.
The Movement Toward Independent Directors on Boards: A Comparative Analysis of Sweden and the UK
Authors: Johanson Daniel , Østergren Katarina
Published: July 2010

Manuscript Type:Conceptual

Research Question/Issue:The aim of this research study is to theorize about the antecedents of the “board independence norm” (BIN), defined as the standard of having independent directors on corporate boards. The research approach is a comparative analysis of two governance settings – Sweden and the UK.

Research Findings/Insights:The UK governance system uses a BIN of power balance from a shareholder perspective, while the Swedish governance system uses a BIN of social connectedness from a stakeholder perspective. However, our findings also suggest that exogenous variables such as pressures to conform to global “best practice” are antecedents of the BIN in the governance codes.

Theoretical/Academic Implications:Any global theory of board independence must integrate differences in board structure and ownership patterns, as well as social connectedness in corporate networks. Furthermore, in addition to economic welfare, social welfare and stakeholder balance should also be considered. A synthesis of the “Varieties of Capitalism” and “New Institutional” perspectives considers that corporate governance is embedded in economic, cultural, and social contexts, yet also addresses institutional forces of conformity that are exogenous to the governance system. This seems to be a more promising framework for comparative governance research than “Contingent Agency Theory.”

Practitioner/Policy Implications:Multi‐national regulative frameworks should focus on general principles of board independence. Local standard setters might then focus on developing a BIN that fits the specific institutional setting. We provide suggestions about how standard setters in Sweden and the UK can make their BINs more consistent with their settings.
HAZARDS IN IMPLEMENTING A MONETARY CONDITIONS INDEX
Authors: Eika Kari H. , Ericsson Neil R. , Nymoen Ragnar
Published: July 2010

Some recent studies have suggested constructing a Monetary Conditions Index (or MCI) to serve as an indicator of monetary policy stance. The central banks of Canada, Sweden and Norway all construct an MCI and (to varying degrees) use it in conducting monetary policy. Empirically, an MCI is calculated as the weighted sum of changes in a short‐term interest rate and the exchange rate relative to values in a baseline year. The weights aim to reflect these variables’ effects on longer‐term focuses of policy — economic activity and inflation. This paper derives analytical and empirical properties of MCIs in an attempt to ascertain their usefulness in monetary policy.

An MCI assumes an underlying model relating economic activity and inflation to the variables in the MCI. Several issues arise for that model, including its empirical constancy, cointegration, exogeneity, dynamics and potential omitted variables. Because of its structure, the model is unlikely to be constant or to have strongly exogenous variables, yet constancy and exogeneity are critical for the usefulness of an MCI. Empirical analyses of Canadian, Swedish and Norwegian MCIs confirm such difficulties. Thus, the value of an MCI for conduct of economic policy is in doubt.
Testing for Parameter Stability in Dynamic Models across Frequencies*
Authors: Candelon Bertrand , Cubadda Gianluca
Published: July 2010

This paper contributes to the econometric literature on structural breaks by proposing a test for parameter stability in vector autoregressive (VAR) models at a particular frequency ω, where ω ∈ [0, π]. When a dynamic model is affected by a structural break, the new tests allow for detecting which frequencies of the data are responsible for parameter instability. If the model is locally stable at the frequencies of interest, the whole sample size can then be exploited despite the presence of a break. The methodology is applied to analyse the productivity slowdown in the US, and the outcome is that local stability concerns only the higher frequencies of data on consumption, investment and output.
Controlling of Grain Size with Different Additives in Tm3+:Y2O3 Transparent Ceramics
Authors: Li Wenjie , Zhou Shengming , Lin Hui , Teng Hao , Liu Na , Li Yukun , Hou Xiaorui , Jia Tingting
Published: July 2010

(Tm0.01Y0.99)2O3 transparent ceramics have been fabricated in a vacuum condition using high‐purity Y2O3 and Tm2O3 powders as raw materials, and ZrO2 and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as additives. Effects of ZrO2 and TEOS on controlling the growth of grain size were investigated to obtain high‐optical‐quality transparent ceramics. Self‐compensation of ZrO2 at high temperature offers vacancies, which promote the diffusion and densification rate. Meanwhile, the solid solution formed by substitution and interstice mechanism improves the optical quality of transparent ceramics significantly. The growth of grain size under different criteria was observed by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy. The spectroscopic properties were also investigated. The result indicates that ZrO2 is necessary for the sintering of yttrium‐transparent ceramics, but TEOS fails to contribute in the yttrium system.
Magnetic Dye‐Adsorbent Catalyst: Processing, Characterization, and Application
Authors: Thazhe Lajina , Shereef Anas , Shukla Satyajit , Pattelath Reshmi Chalappurath , Varma Manoj Raama , Suresh Krishna Gopinatha , Patil Kashinath , Warrier Krishna Gopakumar
Published: July 2010

A magnetic dye‐adsorbent catalyst has been processed by subjecting the conventional magnetic photocatalyst to a hydrothermal process followed by typical washing and thermal treatments. It has been characterized using the transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscope, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscope for analyzing its morphology, structure, and surface chemistry. It consists of a composite particle having a “core‐shell” structure, with a magnetic particle as a core and nanotubes of dye adsorbent as a shell. The dye‐adsorption behavior of magnetic dye‐adsorbent catalyst and the conventional magnetic photocatalyst has been measured, under the dark condition, using methylene blue (MB) as a model catalytic dye agent. It has been demonstrated that, due to its higher specific surface area, the magnetic dye‐adsorbent catalyst removes an organic textile dye from an aqueous solution via surface adsorption mechanism, which is in contrast to the photocatalytic degradation mechanism, under the ultraviolet radiation exposure, associated with the conventional magnetic photocatalyst. It has been shown that, the magnetic dye‐adsorbent catalyst removes >99% of MB dye from an aqueous solution in just 30 min via surface adsorption mechanism. The magnetic dye‐adsorbent catalyst also possesses magnetic properties, which makes its removal from an aqueous solution possible using an external magnetic field after the dye‐adsorption process.
Locally Er‐Doped High‐Solubility LiNbO3 Crystal Prepared by Li‐Poor Vapor Transport Equilibration and Er Codiffusion
Authors: Zhang De‐Long , Chen Bei , Pun Edwin Yue‐Bun
Published: July 2010

We demonstrate the feasibility of preparing locally Er‐doped high‐solubility LiNbO3 (LN) crystal for the use of integrated optics by simultaneous work of Er in‐diffusion and Li‐poor vapor transport equilibration (VTE) treatment. Four X‐cut and four Z‐cut congruent LN substrates locally coated with 30–44 nm thick Er‐metal films underwent a Li‐poor VTE treatment of 1030/240°, 1050/180°, 1070/180°, and 1050/180°C/h, respectively. After the VTE procedure, the Li2O content in the crystal, determined from the measured birefringence, decreases from original 48.5±0.1 mol% to (48.0–48.2)±0.1 mol% with an approximately homogeneous profile and shows less effect of the cut of plate. Secondary ion mass spectrometry was used to study the Er diffusion properties. The results show that all of the Er diffusion reservoirs were not exhausted. The diffused Er ions in all of the samples studied follow the complementary error function profile. From the measured Er profiles, characteristic diffusion parameters such as diffusion depth, diffusivity, diffusion constant, activation energy, and solubility were determined and discussed in comparison with the case of the traditional diffusion in the argon or O2 atmosphere. It is found that the diffusion in the Li‐poor atmosphere shows an anisotropy similar to that in the traditional argon or O2 atmosphere. Under the same temperature, the Er diffusivity in the Li‐poor atmosphere is considerably larger than in the O2. From the logarithmic plot of diffusivity versus 1/T and the Arrhenius law, the diffusion constant and activation energy are determined to be (1.2±0.2) × 107/(2.2±0.3) × 104μm2/h and (2.32±0.02)/(1.51±0.02) eV for the diffusion in the X‐/Z‐cut plate. The solubility in the X‐/Z‐cut plate is evaluated to be (1.42±0.24)/(1.14±0.15), (2.18±0.27)/(2.01±0.19), (2.62±0.26)/(2.68±0.19), and (2.54±0.20)/(2.30±0.16) × 1020 ions/cm3 for the VTE temperature of 1030°, 1050°, 1070°, and 1100°C, respectively. As expected, it depends on both the VTE temperature and the Li2O content in crystal. Under the same VTE temperature, the solubilities in the X‐ and Z‐cut plates can be regarded as same within the error range. Under the same temperature, the solubility in the Li‐poor atmosphere case is considerably higher than that in either the argon or the O2 atmosphere case.
Determinants of egg load in the soybean aphid parasitoid Binodoxys communis
Authors: Dieckhoff Christine , Heimpel George E.
Published: July 2010

We used a series of laboratory studies to investigate factors contributing to variability in egg load of the parasitoid Binodoxys communis (Gahan) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a biological control agent of the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae). The change in egg load in newly emerged females over time was determined in response to three treatments: post‐eclosion temperature, sugar meals, and host density. Binodoxys communis females emerge with an average egg load of approximately 40 mature eggs that increases to approximately 200 eggs within 24 h of emergence. The egg maturation rate over this time period is higher when females are held at 26 °C than at 18 °C. And although the egg load of sugar‐fed females was slightly higher than that of starved females, this difference was not statistically significant. Binodoxys communis females that were held with 150 hosts for 8 h laid more eggs than those that were held with 30 hosts, and they also matured more eggs over the subsequent 16 h than those held with 30 hosts or no hosts at all. However, we detected no difference in the egg maturation pattern between B. communis females held with the low host density and that of control females held with no hosts at all. Thus, we conclude that enhanced egg maturation in the higher host‐density treatment is more likely explained by a rapid replenishing of partially depleted ovaries than a host‐induced stimulus of egg maturation per se. Taken together, these results suggest a strategy of maintaining a high egg load and thus avoiding or mitigating the negative effects of egg limitation.
Effect of patellar brace on patellofemoral relationships
Authors: Koskinen S. K. , Kujala U. M.
Published: July 2010

The effect of patellar brace on patellofemoral relationships was analyzed using magnetic resonance imaging in 17 knees with patellar subluxation or dislocation. Images were produced in 0° and 20° knee flexions without the patellar brace, with patellar brace and with patellar brace after 1 h of walking. In knee extension, the patellar brace had an unfavorable effect on lateral patellar tilt, but decreased the tilt in 20° knee flexion. The excessive lateral patellar displacement was alleviated in both knee flexion angles. The corrected position was still apparent after physical exercise. Isometric quadriceps muscle contraction increased the displacement. These results suggest a positive stabilizing effect of the brace in patients with patellar instability.
Influence of body weight reduction on maximal oxygen uptake in female elite athletes
Authors: Ingjer F. , Sundgot‐Borgen J.
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of weight reduction on maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max and running speed in endurance‐trained female elite athletes. Seven (the cases) of the 33 subjects reduced a significant amount of body weight (BW) within a period of 2 months. The cases showed a significant decrease in V̇O2max and running speed relative to controls during the weight reduction period (WRP). A considerable loss in BW might have prevented cases from achieving a training‐induced increase in V̇O2max and running speed similar to controls during the WRP. Six cases maintained low BW and all 7 improved V̇O2max relative to controls 1 year after the WRP.
Predicted, actual and optimal precompetition anxiety in adolescent track and field athletes
Authors: Raglin J. S. , Turner P. E.
Published: July 2010

Anxiety was assessed in younger and older adolescent athletes in an attempt to test aspects of Hanin's zone of optimal function theory. Sixty‐five participants in a track and field camp completed anxiety inventories at baseline and were instructed: 1) to recall how anxious they felt prior to their best performance and 2) to predict how anxious they would feel prior to an informal meet to be held 4 days later. Actual precompetition anxiety was assessed 1 h prior to the meet. Predicted precompetition anxiety was significantly higher than baseline and actual precompetition anxiety. Mean actual precompetition anxiety was not elevated above baseline. However, 34% (22/65) of the sample experienced high levels of precompetition anxiety, and the majority of these (17/22) reported performing optimally with high anxiety. Significant correlations between predicted and actual precompetition anxiety occurred for boys, but not for girls. The differences between predicted and actual precompetition values tended to be smaller in boys than in girls. Based on this sample, it is concluded that: 1) in accordance with the zone of optimal function theory, young athletes display considerable diversity in actual and optimal precompetition anxiety values; and 2) young athletes tend to overestimate the level of anxiety they will experience prior to an easy competition.
Influence of underwater exercise on anxiety and body temperature
Authors: Koltyn K. F. , Morgan W. P.
Published: July 2010

Comparative research involving cats and research with humans support the hypothesis that anxiety reduction following acute exercise may be caused by elevations in core temperature. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of underwater finning on state anxiety, core temperature, heart rate, respiration rate and the use of compressed air. Certified scuba divers (n= 15) finned underwater at a pace of 0.52 m/s for 20 min. The results indicate that core temperature did not increase during exercise, but heart rate, respiration rate and the consumption of compressed air did increase significantly. State anxiety decreased below baseline levels by 15 min following exercise. Since core temperature did not rise, it is concluded that the anxiolytic effect of underwater exercise may not depend on elevated core temperature.
Anterior cruciate‐injured knees: a review of evaluation methods and treatment regimens
Authors: Dahlstedt L. , Dalén N.
Published: July 2010

Functional scores, activity scores, objective clinical findings and results after arthrometric measurements performed by the same examiner give valuable information when evaluating results after treatment of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Patient relaxation is of considerable importance during the arthrometric examination and the results between different measuring devices cannot be compared directly. The difference in anterior laxity between the injured and uninjured knee is the most important information when arthrometric measurements are to be presented. In the acute phase, if surgery is indicated, augmentation‐reconstruction with use of autologous material is the method of choice. The operation should be postponed until the knee has a full range of motion and when the effusion has subsided. Reconstruction using autologous patellar tendon bone‐tendon‐bone grafts and fixation techniques with use of interference‐screws in both recent and old injuries, permitting early knee rehabilitation, seem to be methods of choice. In selected cases hamstring tendons should be used as grafts. Adequate notchplasty should always be considered. Both modern miniarthrotomy techniques or arthroscopically assisted reconstruction procedures minimize postoperative morbidity and facilitate knee rehabilitation. Future prospective randomized studies comparing these two methods, with special reference to aspects of postoperative rehabilitation and long‐term results concerning function and stability, will certainly be valuable. Extra‐articular stabilization procedures do not function in the long‐term and these methods cannot be recommended as the only surgical procedure. There is as yet no true prosthetic ACL implant that has proven long‐lasting satisfactory results. Most long‐term reports about reconstruction of the ACL with synthetic materials have presented a high rate of failures. Augmentation techniques in which a synthetic material is combined with autologous tissue seem to give positive results, and resorbable materials may be a future solution. Use of allografts, either fresh‐frozen or freeze‐dried, are interesting techniques but must be considered developmental. Allograft techniques may enhance knee rehabilitation and minimize anterior knee pain, provided that the grafts are prepared properly and no viral infection is transmitted. Patient selection for either conservative or operative treatment is of greatest importance for good results. Each case should be treated individually, and in the future hopefully there will be better objective methods for selecting the right patient for the right method.
Alpha‐fetoprotein, prolactin and cortisol responses to maximal exercise during pregnancy
Authors: Hackney A. C. , Katz V. L. , Watson W. J. , Gall M. M. , McMurray R. G.
Published: July 2010

The purpose of this study was to assess the maternal‐fetal hormonal stress reactivity, via the monitoring of alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), prolactin and cortisol responses, to mammal maternal exercise. We had women perform maximal exercise bouts to volitional fatigue at select times in their gestation (25 weeks, 35 weeks, and 10 weeks post‐partum). Blood samples were taken immediately before exercise and 1 min into the recovery from exercise. Each subject's prior diet, physical activity, and time of day for the exercise trials were held consistent. Exercise caused significant reductions in AFP at both 25 and 35 weeks of gestation. Prolactin decreased significantly after exercise at 35 weeks and tended to do so at 25 weeks. No significant change in prolactin was noted for the post‐partum trial. Similarly, cortisol also showed reductions after exercise at 25 weeks and 35 weeks of gestation but tended to increase at the post‐partum trial. The prolactin and cortisol responses during gestation are contrary to accepted non‐pregnancy responses. These changes may be related to an altered regulatory axis, metabolic clearance rate, and/or capillary fluid movement. We conclude that 1) fetal to maternal bleeding in response to maximal maternal exercise is not evident immediately post‐exercise and 2) an alternation in the normal endocrine stress response to exercise may occur during pregnancy.
Mechanical efficiency of rowing a single scull
Authors: Nozaki D. , Kawakam Y. , Fukunaga T. , Mlyashtta M.
Published: July 2010

To determine the mechanical of rowing, oxygen uptake and mechanical work rate were measured during rowing a single scull under windless conditions. Steady‐state pulmonary oxygen uptake was determined as a function of boat velocity (v (m‐s−1)) in 5 subjects. Oxygen uptake (1‐min−1) increased as 0.065 v2.99. Workrate in two subjects was determined as a function of v by measuring the force applied to the oar and its angular velocity. Work rate (w) was expressed as 3.85 v3.25. From these equations, mechanical efficiency (%) was expressed as 17 v0.262. Thus, mechanical efficiency increased from 20% at 2 m‐s−1 to 24% at a boat velocity of 4 m‐s−1.
Renal laceration secondary to blunt trauma in soccer
Authors: Lavard P. , Hölmich P.
Published: July 2010

A case of a blunt abdominal trauma in soccer causing laceration of the left kidney is presented. A 22‐year‐old male soccer player was hit in the left loin by the opponent goalkeeper's knee. Within a few hours the injured player developed signs of greater intraabdominal hemorrhage. Laparotomy revealed laceration of the left kidney and nephrectomy was performed. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient is still playing soccer 5 years after the injury. Blunt abdominal trauma leading to intraabdominal lesions is very rare even in contact sports. Laceration of a kidney due to a blunt trauma in soccer has not earlier been reported. It is emphasized that a blunt abdominal trauma in sports might cause a severe intra‐abdominal lesion.
The effect of liniment on blood flow
Authors: Ljungfelt C. , Bornmyr S. , Lilja B. , Ravald B. , Westlin N.
Published: July 2010

The effect of liniment applied by massage or stick on skin and calf blood flow was studied in 12 subjects. The blood flow was recorded with laser Doppler flowmetry with skin probe and strain gauge plethysmography. A massage liniment used to lower the friction that is not supposed to have any therapeutic effect (Frisco) was massaged into the right lower leg for 10 min and the registration was performed for 60 min. Then the liniment studied, Tiger Balm was massaged into the left lower leg and another registration was carried out. This procedure was performed a second time and the liniments were applied with a stick and wiped off after 10 min. Liniments with massage resulted in an increase in both skin and calf blood flow. The effect was greater and longer lasting when using Tiger Balm. When the liniments were applied with a stick, a decrease in skin and calf blood flow was noted when using Frisco. Tiger Balm caused a slight increase in the skin blood flow but had no influence on the calf blood flow.
The influence of beverage composition and gastrointestinal function on fluid and nutrient availability during exercise
Authors: Rehrer N. J. , Brouns F. , Beckers E. J. , Saris W. H. M.
Published: July 2010

In order to maximize fluid and/or carbohydrate availability during exercise, in which performance may be limited by one or the other, the composition and ingestion pattern of a beverage can be adjusted accordingly. As carbohydrate concentration increases, the rate of gastric emptying decreases. With more highly concentrated carbohydrate solutions, the net fluid absorption of water in the intestine is also reduced, although lower concentrations of glucose containing carbohydrates (∼3‐7%) actually can stimulate net intestinal absorption. Increasing the osmolality of a beverage can reduce the gastric emptying rate, but it has a more profound effect on gastric and intestinal secretions. Hyperosmolality increases secretions and as such decreases the rate of net absorption. Sodium inclusion in a beverage is warranted not only to offset losses (primarily from sweat) but, moreover, to promote fluid absorption in the intestine and to increase fluid retention. Recommendations include maintenance of fluid balance by ingestion of sufficient fluids, immediately prior to and during exercise, to restrict body weight losses to ≤1%. Somewhat more concentrated carbohydrate solutions may be ingested when the risk of hypohydration is low and performance is limited by carbohydrate availability. With increasing carbohydrate concentrations, at least up to 18%, there is a greater rate of carbohydrate passage through the gastrointestinal tract. When carbohydrate concentrations exceed 5%, the type of carbohydrate (mono‐ or disaccharides, long chain polymers, etc.) is important as the osmolality increases with increasing concentration and decreasing chain length. Thus, when concentrations of >8% are warranted, based on energy demands, there is an advantage to using glucose polymer solutions, owing to a decrease in gastrointestinal secretions and, hence, an increase in rate of net fluid absorption.
Arthrography in javelin throwers with medial elbow pain
Authors: Josefsson P. O. , Gentz C. F. , Pettersson H. , Westlin N. E.
Published: July 2010

In 18 javelin throwers from all parts of Sweden, referred to our Section of Sports Medicine because of medial elbow pain, an arthrography was performed to study intra‐articular changes. In 11 of the throwers the pain occurred suddenly at the moment a throw was being executed and in 7 there was a gradual increase of pain during training and competition. In the clinical examination 1 week to 72 months after the onset of the symptoms there was a tenderness over the medial collateral ligament in all subjects. No elbow was unstable. On the plain radiographic examination a small calcification was seen at the site of the ligament in 3 cases. The arthrography revealed a leakage of contrast into the soft tissue at the site of the ligament in 10 elbows, and a local synovitis was seen in 16 elbows. We conclude that the medial elbow pain in javelin throwers is caused by a partial injury to the medial collateral ligament and a secondary local inflammation.
Can a regular leg extension bench be used in testing deficits of the quadriceps muscle during rehabilitation?
Authors: Holm I. , Hammer S. , Larsen S. , Nordsletten L. , Steen H.
Published: July 2010

Fifty‐nine people, 31 healthy subjects with no previous knee injuries and 28 who had undergone an intra‐articular anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction 6–12 months prior to testing took part in the study. The subjects were randomly tested bilaterally on a Cybex 6000 isokinetic testing device (ITD) and on an ordinary leg extension bench (LEB). Strength and endurance were tested with both methods. The linear relationships for paired strength and endurance differences between ITD and LEB were found to be acceptable for the operated group. The LEB alone explained 57% and 38% of the ITD outcome for strength and endurance, respectively. The agreement between observed and predicted ITD values based on the LEB measurements was found satisfactory with a positive standardized agreement index. This indicates that the LEB can be used as a helpful tool in evaluation of quadriceps muscle strength deficits.
Fracture of the humerus in ball throwers A consequence of idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis in a female handball player?
Authors: Landmark R. , Petersen M. M.
Published: July 2010

We report a case of a spontaneous humeral shaft fracture sustained during pitching by a 22‐year‐old previously healthy female European team handball player. The fracture was treated by closed reposition followed by immobilization in a hanging cast. The fracture healed uneventfully, and normal function and range of motion were reached within 6 months. Between 1 and 2 years after the fracture, bone mineral measurements showed a decreased bone mass (1.43–2.56 SD below mean values of normal women) at all measuring sites; proximal tibia bilaterally (bone mineral content (right) = 2.68 g/cm, bone mineral content (left) = 2.79 g/cm), lumbar spine (bone mineral density (L2–4) = 0.814 g/cm2), and right hip (bone mineral density (neck) = 0.697 g/cm2, bone mineral density (Ward's) = 0.626 g/cm2). A thorough endocrinological examination indicated that a state of bone loss existed, but no specific endocrine disease was found. The unusual fracture presented must be considered the result of the torsional forces transmitted to a severely osteoporotic bone.
Pseudarthrosis of the acromion ‐ a differential diagnosis in anterolateral shoulder pain
Authors: Næsted J. , Jørgensen U. , Tørholm C.
Published: July 2010

A case of longstanding posttraumatic anterolateral shoulder pain in a 25‐year‐old woman is presented. It was primarily unsuccessfully handled as impingement syndrome but turned out to be caused by pseudarthrosis of the acromion. The abnormality was not apparent on plain X‐ray film. The suspicion was raised after scintigraphy, which showed increased density in the acromion. The diagnosis was made by computerized tomography and confirmed and treated successfully surgically.
The plantar flexor muscle attachments on the tibia
Authors: Ekenman I. , Tsai‐Felländer L. , Johansson C. , O'Brien M.
Published: July 2010

Thirty‐six tibiae from 11 female and 7 male cadavers were dissected. Anatomical and histological examinations of the plantar flexor muscle origins at the posteromedial border of the tibia were performed. Many individual variations in the type and size of muscle origin were observed.

Muscle fibers and/or connective tissue in different proportions attached the muscle to the periosteum or directly to the cortical bone. The length of the attachments varied greatly and there was a considerable overlap of the muscles in some individuals. The attachments of the flexor digitorum longus overlapped the tibialis posterior and the flexor digitorum longus muscle was overlapped by the soleus muscle. In two cases the soleus muscle did not attach to the tibia at all. Our findings may shed some light on the question as to why some athletes sustain posteromedial tibial stress fractures and others develop shin splits or other posteromedial injuries from similar precipitating activity.
Infectious and lymphocytic myocarditis: epidemiology and factors relevant to sports medicine
Authors: Friman G. , Wesslén L. , Karjalainen J. , Rolf C.
Published: July 2010

Myocarditis is a disease entity of permanent actuality and of special concern in the sports setting. This is because the probability of complications or sequelae increases if exercise is imposed. Myocarditis may pass unrecognized by the sufferer or be easily overlooked by the physician, especially in athletes, where electrocardiographic changes often exist normally. Furthermore, although the immune system of the conditioned individual may be more efficient than that of the sedentary individual, very strenuous and frequently repeated or long‐lasting exercise may cause immunosuppression and an increased susceptibility to respiratory tract infections (RTI). Several causative agents of RTI can give rise to myocarditis as well. The true incidence of proven infectious myocarditis in society is unknown. Histopathologically defined myocarditis (lymphocytic myocarditis), on the other hand, has been found in about 1% of unselected routine autopsies. In general, the long‐term prognosis in myocarditis is favorable but exercise stress may cause long‐term sequelae or sudden death. It is thus essential to refrain from strenuous exercise during RTI.
Effects of an exercise program on musculoskeletal symptoms and physical capacity among nursing staff
Authors: Skargren E. , Öberg B.
Published: July 2010

Musculoskeletal disorders are a major health problem, and nursing staff are often seen as a risk group. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a weekly exercise program among nursing staff on musculoskeletal symptoms and to study the relation to changes in physical capacity. A total of 106 nurses and nursing aides from four geriatric wards were invited to participate; 86 accepted. A cross‐over design was used. The staff from two wards were assigned to an exercise period and the staff from the other wards to a control period for the first intervention period. After a wash‐out period, the intervention changed. For the exercise periods the staff were invited to participate in an exercise program twice a week for 8 weeks. In total 50 subjects participated more than 8 times regularly during the exercise periods (participants≤8 times regular participation, nonparticipants≤8). During the control periods 78 subjects attended without intervention. Assessments were made with a standardized questionnaire for analysis of musculoskeletal and psychosomatic symptoms, testing of muscle strength in m. quadriceps with a Cybex dynamometer, and testing of cardiovascular capacity with a Dynavite computerized exercise bicycle before and after the exercise periods. The muscle strength in m. quadriceps increased more during the exercise periods compared with the control periods, explained primarily by the subgroup of nonregular exercisers and those ≥40 years of age. The number of musculoskeletal symptoms tended to decrease more in the subgroup of nonregular exercisers (those who exercised less than once a week in their spare time) during the exercise periods compared with the nonregular exercisers during the control periods. Comparisons within groups showed a decrease in the number of musculoskeletal symptoms within the exercise periods, explained primarily by a decrease among the participants rather than among the nonparticipants. The decrease within the participants was explained primarily by the subgroup of nonregular exercisers and those ≥40 years of age. An increase in cardiovascular capacity and a tendency to increase in muscle strength in m. quadriceps were seen among the participants, explained primarily by the effect in the subgroup of nonregular exercisers. The study suggests that a moderate weekly exercise program, performed in a group, among nursing staff affects physical capacity and the number of musculoskeletal symptoms for subjects who are nonregular exercisers and probably subjects ≥40 years of age.
Increased risk of stress fractures of the ribs in elite rowers
Authors: Christiansen E. , Kanstrup I.‐L.
Published: July 2010

In rowing, stress fractures are rare. However, the intensity of training has increased in terms of more specific rowing movements throughout the year. Simultaneously, new equipment has been developed resulting in faster rowing over the racing distance with increased risk of injuries on bones, muscles and ligaments. We report five cases of chest pain and one case of pain in the shoulder in national elite rowers, diagnosed as stress fractures of the ribs employing 99mTechnetium‐MDP bone scan. In all cases, an increase or alteration in physical activity in the weeks prior to the injury and an increase in specific rowing movements with special emphasis on the new equipment, combined with increased biomechanical stress applied to the thoratic skeleton in the catch and the early part of the drive phase of the stroke, most probably caused the injuries.
The aging tendon
Authors: Tuite D. J. , Renström P. A. F. H. , O'Brien M.
Published: July 2010

After maturation tendons undergo many biochemical, cellular, mechanical and pathological changes that bring about a general decline in the structure and function of the tendon. This decline in the aging tendon is characterized by a reduced ability to adapt to environmental stress and loss of tissue homeostasis. The tendon's adaptability to these changes will decide the rate and the success of treatment of a tendon injury. This review examines these changes and also looks at how we can curtail their progression through exercise and lifestyle modification.
Fitness training and its effect on musculoskeletal pain in profesional ballet dancers
Authors: Ramel E. , Thorsson O. , Wollmer P.
Published: July 2010

In a controlled, prospective, randomized study, half of the dancers in a professional ballet company were asked to do extra self‐administered fitness training, while the other half became the control group. The aim was to examine if the dancers in the training group would be able to keep up the extra training during a regular season and to examine its effect on their maximum oxygen uptake and on their self‐estimated musculoskeletal pain. The training group increased their oxygen uptake more than the control group. The self‐estimated functional inability because of pain (SEFIP) indicated significantly less pain the week after the premiére for the study population taken as a whole, but not for the two groups when considered separately. The training group claimed that the fitness training had helped them to cope with the psychological strain during rehearsals.