bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Th2‐like chemokine levels are increased in allergic children and influenced by maternal immunity during pregnancy
Authors: Abelius Martina S. , Lempinen Esma , Lindblad Karin , Ernerudh Jan , Berg Göran , Matthiesen Leif , Nilsson Lennart J. , Jenmalm Maria C.
Published: June 2014

Background

The influence of the intra‐uterine environment on the immunity and allergy development in the offspring is unclear. We aimed to investigate (i) whether the pregnancy magnifies the Th2 immunity in allergic and non‐allergic women, (ii) whether the maternal chemokine levels during pregnancy influenced the offspring's chemokine levels during childhood and (iii) the relationship between circulating Th1/Th2‐associated chemokines and allergy in mothers and children.

Methods

The Th1‐associated chemokines CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and the Th2‐associated chemokines CCL17, CCL18 and CCL22 were quantified by Luminex and ELISA in 20 women with and 36 women without allergic symptoms at gestational week (gw) 10–12, 15–16, 25, 35, 39 and 2 and 12 months post‐partum and in their children at birth, 6, 12, 24 months and 6 years of age. Total IgE levels were measured using ImmunoCAP Technology.

Results

The levels of the Th2‐like chemokines were not magnified by pregnancy. Instead decreased levels were shown during pregnancy (irrespectively of maternal allergy status) as compared to post‐partum. In the whole group, the Th1‐like chemokine levels were higher at gw 39 than during the first and second trimester and post‐partum. Maternal CXCL11, CCL18 and CCL22 levels during and after pregnancy correlated with the corresponding chemokines in the offspring during childhood. Increased CCL22 and decreased CXCL10 levels in the children were associated with sensitisation and increased CCL17 levels with allergic symptoms during childhood. Maternal chemokine levels were not associated with maternal allergic disease.

Conclusions

Allergic symptoms and sensitisation were associated with decreased Th1‐ and increased Th2‐associated chemokine levels during childhood, indicating a Th2 shift in the allergic children, possibly influenced by the maternal immunity during pregnancy.
Monitoring Ara h 1, 2 and 3‐sIgE and sIgG4 antibodies in peanut allergic children receiving oral rush immunotherapy
Authors: Nozawa Asako , Okamoto Yoshihisa , Movérare Robert , Borres Magnus P. , Kurihara Kazuyunki
Published: June 2014

Background

The aim was to study the clinical efficacy and safety of rush oral immunotherapy (OIT) for severe peanut‐allergic children and to measure the antibody responses.

Methods

Eighteen Japanese children were enrolled after a positive double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC). The patients ingested peanuts up to 3–5 times a day every 30 min, increasing the dose by 20% every time. The goal dose was 3.5–7 g. IgE, IgG, and IgG4 antibody levels to peanut, and peanut allergen components were measured during up to 3 yr of maintenance treatment.

Results

Two children dropped out due to side effects. Sixteen patients (14 boys and two girls, median: 9 yr range: 5–14 yr) achieved the goal dose after a median of 11 days (range: 4–19 days). Their median threshold dose at DBPCFC was 0.20 g (range: 0.015–1.0 g). All were sensitized to Ara h 2. Fourteen of them had a history of previous anaphylaxis. In total, 173 adverse events were observed during the treatment (27% of the total ingestions) of which 74 needed medications. The median IgE, IgG, and IgG4 antibody levels to peanut increased during rush OIT. The IgG4 levels were high during the whole maintenance phase. IgE and IgG4 antibodies to Ara h 2 dominated the serological response during the treatment.

Conclusions

The present rush OIT protocol for children with severe peanut allergy was effective and relatively safe. A sustained Ara h 2‐specific IgG4 antibody response characterized the treatment.
Comparison of High‐voltage‐ with Standard‐voltage Pulsed Radiofrequency of Gasserian Ganglion in the Treatment of Idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Fang Luo , Tao Wang , Jingjing Lu , Nan Ji
Published: June 2014

Although pulsed radiofrequency treatment (PRFT) has been used to treat trigeminal neuralgia (TN) safely, satisfactory improvement is lacking. Recently, much attention has been paid to the PRFT dose and intra‐operative parameters. It has been reported that high‐voltage PRFT could significantly reduce discogenic pain. However, there is no study investigating the effects of high‐voltage PRFT on TN. The aim of this prospective, randomized, double‐blinded study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of high‐voltage PRFT in comparison with standard‐voltage PRFT for idiopathic TN. Sixty severe TN patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups treated with CT‐guided standard‐ or high‐voltage‐pulsed radiofrequency (RF) of Gasserian ganglion, respectively, between January 2012 and July 2012. Numeric Rating Scales (NRS), carbamazepine dose, and side effects were evaluated at day 1, weeks 1 and 2, months 1, 3, and 6, and 1 year postoperative. There were 27 patients in the standard‐voltage group and 26 patients in the high‐voltage group who completed the 1‐year follow‐up study. The effective rates in the standard‐voltage and high‐voltage PRFT groups were 41% and 69%, respectively, at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperative (P = 0.037). The effective rate in the standard‐voltage group decreased to 19% at 1‐year postoperative, while in the high‐voltage group remained at 69% (P = 0.000). No significant side effects were detected in both groups. In conclusion, CT‐guided high‐voltage PRFT is an effective and safe interventional therapeutic choice for idiopathic TN patients.
Suicide in elderly South Tyroleans in various residential settings at the time of death: a psychological autopsy study
Authors: Torresani Stefano , Toffol Elena , Scocco Paolo , Fanolla Antonio
Published: June 2014

Background

Completed suicide is more frequent among older adults than any other age group. Data on suicide in nursing homes and other residential facilities are inconsistent. This work aims to describe the characteristics of elderly suicide victims in different residential settings compared to young suicide victims.

Methods

Data on people who died by suicide in the South Tyrol (Alto Adige) region of Italy between 2000 and 2009 were gathered from the local Provincial Mortality Register. Further detailed information was collected via questionnaires to mental health departments and psychological services, family physicians and relatives of the deceased.

Results

A total of 525 cases of suicide were recorded, with a linearly decreasing trend during the study period. About one‐third of the suicides occurred in those aged 60 years and over. Suicide in the elderly was associated with low education level (odds ratio (OR) = 7.1, P < 0.001), living in a one‐person household (OR = 2.4, P < 0.01), not having economic troubles (OR = 6.1, P < 0.01), having seen a doctor in the past month (OR = 2.4, P < 0.01) and living in a residential facility (OR = 2.6, P < 0.05). Twenty‐four (17.9%) suicide victims aged 60 years and over were in a residential facility/hospital at the time of the death. They were more likely to be women, not married, and to die by jumping from a height.

Conclusions

The suicide risk should be carefully assessed in the elderly who live alone or are institutionalized or hospitalized. Efforts are warranted to reduce seniors' access to high places in hospitals and facilities.
Imaging discrepancies between magnetic resonance imaging and brain perfusion single‐photon emission computed tomography in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, and verification with amyloid positron emission tomography
Authors: Yokoyama Shunichi , Kajiya Yoriko , Yoshinaga Takuma , Tani Atsushi , Hirano Hirofumi
Published: June 2014

Background

In the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), discrepancies are often observed between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and brain perfusion single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) findings. MRI, brain perfusion SPECT, and amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) findings were compared in patients with mild cognitive impairment or early AD to clarify the discrepancies between imaging modalities.

Methods

Several imaging markers were investigated, including the cortical average standardized uptake value ratio on amyloid PET, the Z‐score of a voxel‐based specific regional analysis system for AD on MRI, periventricular hyperintensity grade, deep white matter hyperintense signal grade, number of microbleeds, and three indicators of the easy Z‐score imaging system for a specific SPECT volume‐of‐interest analysis. Based on the results of the regional analysis and the three indicators, we classified patients into four groups and then compared the results of amyloid PET, periventricular hyperintensity grade, deep white matter hyperintense signal grade, and the numbers of microbleeds among the groups.

Results

The amyloid deposition was the highest in the group that presented typical AD findings on both the regional analysis and the three indicators. The two groups that showed an imaging discrepancy between the regional analysis and the three indicators demonstrated intermediate amyloid deposition findings compared with the typical and atypical groups. The patients who showed hippocampal atrophy on the regional analysis and atypical AD findings using the three indicators were approximately 60% amyloid‐negative. The mean periventricular hyperintensity grade was highest in the typical group.

Conclusions

Patients showing discrepancies between MRI and SPECT demonstrated intermediate amyloid deposition findings compared with patients who showed typical or atypical findings. Strong white matter signal abnormalities on MRI in patients who presented typical AD findings provided further evidence for the involvement of vascular factors in AD.
Do depressive symptoms on hospital admission impact early functional outcome in elderly patients with hip fracture?
Authors: Dubljanin Raspopović Emilija , Marić Nadja , Nedeljković Una , Ilić Nela , Tomanović Vujadinović Sanja , Bumbaširević Marko
Published: June 2014

Background

Depression is the most common mood disorder in elderly people and one of the most prevalent comorbidities in older people with hip fracture. While several authors have confirmed that depressive symptoms assessed at a later stage after hip fracture impact functional outcome and mortality, the role of depressive symptoms identified at an earlier stage after hip fracture remains understudied. The aim of the present study was to determine if depressive symptoms assessed on hospital admission impact early functional outcome after hip fracture surgery.

Methods

We studied 112 patients who underwent surgery for hip fracture during a 6‐month period. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 30‐itemGeriatricDepressionScale on admission to the acute setting. Multidimensional assessment included sociodemographic characteristics, general health status, cognitive status, functional status prior to injury, and perioperative variables. The primary outcome measure was motorFunctionalIndependenceMeasure at discharge.

Results

Adjusted multivariate regression analysis revealed that the presence of moderate to severe depressive symptoms (GeriatricDepressionScale ≥ 20), older age, and female gender were independently related to motorFunctionalIndependenceMeasure at discharge.

Conclusion

Increasing levels of depressive symptoms in elderly hip fracture patients influence short‐term functional outcome. We strongly support the introduction of routine assessment of this baseline comorbidity, especially in female patients. Failure to identify such patients is a missed opportunity for possible improvement of early functional outcome after hip fracture in elderly.
Is sense of coherence helpful in coping with caregiver burden for dementia?
Authors: Matsushita Masateru , Ishikawa Tomohisa , Koyama Asuka , Hasegawa Noriko , Ichimi Naoko , Yano Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Mamoru , Fujii Naoki , Ikeda Manabu
Published: June 2014

Background

Sense of coherence (SOC) is associated with a reduced risk of various health problems and is thought to be a major factor related to the ability to cope with stress. In the present study, we examined the association between caregiver burden andSOCamong caregivers to persons with dementia.

Methods

Participants included 274 caregivers or family members of community‐dwelling elderly dementia patients. To assess the cognitive function of patients, neuropsychological tests (e.g.Mini‐MentalStateExamination,ClinicalDementiaRating) were conducted by a clinical psychologist who was well trained in interviewing participants; the tests used a semi‐structured interview protocol. Senior neurologists and psychiatrists also independently evaluated the dementia status of patients. To assess theSOCand caregiver burden, a social welfare counsellor asked questions from a 13‐item version of theSOCscale and the short, eight‐itemJapanese version of theZaritCaregiverBurdenInterview (ZBI).

Results

Among 78 caregivers of elderly subjects with cognitive impairment due to dementia, theZBIscore was significantly associated withSOC(r = −0.38,P = 0.001). Multiple regression analyses revealed thatSOCscores (β = −0.42,P < 0.001) andMini‐MentalStateExamination scores (β = −0.28,P = 0.009) were significantly associated withZBIscores (F(2, 76) = 10.51,P < 0.001).SOCwas closely associated with personal strain in theZBI(β = −0.41,P < 0.001;F(3, 75) = 8.53,P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Caregivers with a strongSOCmay be less prone to experiencing personal strain from their burden. These results suggest that reinforcement ofSOCwould contribute to reducing the personal strain.
How Fast Can Carbon Be Sequestered When Restoring Degraded Subtropical Thicket?
Authors: Mills Anthony J. , Cowling Richard M.
Published: June 2014

Is the maximum rate of carbon sequestration reported for the CAM‐C3 plant Portulacaria afra (spekboom), viz. 15.4 t CO2 ha−1 yr−1, unusual in comparison with other plants with similar physioliogies, or could such rates be expected routinely in restoration with P. afra? Private sector investors in thicket restoration need an answer to this question in order to assess the feasibility of using carbon finance as the main income stream from their investments. A literature review showed that 15.4 t CO2 ha−1 yr−1 is not an unusual rate of carbon sequestration for CAM plants in arid and semi‐arid environments, which suggests that investors in thicket restoration should not consider this an outlier value. The results also suggest that carbon finance could be used to fund restoration using other CAM plants in degraded xeric thickets in countries such as Argentina, Chile, Mexico, and Madagascar.
Processing of small volumes in blood salvage devices
Authors: Seyfried Timo , Breu Anita , Gruber Michael , Reipert Julia , Hansen Ernil
Published: June 2014

Background

New technical developments such as a small Latham bowl, a continuous autotransfusion system, and a dynamic disk designed for postoperative autotransfusion raise hopes for a possible application of blood salvage in young children. However, the minimal blood volume for effective processing under clinically relevant conditions has yet to be determined.

Study Design and Methods

Fresh blood from volunteer donations adjusted to a hematocrit (Hct) of 10% was used to test ELECTA (Sorin) equipped with a 55‐mL bowl, C.A.T.S (Fresenius) in the pediatric program mode, and OrthoPAT (Haemonetics). Twenty‐milliliter portions of red blood cells (RBCs) were added and processed under various conditions, including clinically relevant first filling and intermittent emptying. RBC recovery and availability and plasma elimination were calculated from the Hct, free hemoglobin, and total protein.

Results

The main impediment to recovery and availability was the first filling. There, RBC recovery was significantly reduced, while it subsequently varied between 93 and 98%. To produce the first 30 mL of RBCs, ELECTA required 42 mL and C.A.T.S and OrthoPAT 62 mL owing to the dead space of the separation chamber or reservoir, respectively. RBC availability was much higher in subsequent processes, with only minimal differences between the three devices. They all consistently provided high plasma elimination rates.

Conclusion

The continuous system showed no advantage over a small Latham bowl. From the results it can be calculated that the limit for feasible cell salvage at present is an infant of 6 months. All three devices are suitable for the processing of small volumes, but have the scope for further optimization.
DNA barcoding of the northern Northeast Atlantic skates (Chondrichthyes, Rajiformes), with remarks on the widely distributed starry ray
Authors: Lynghammar Arve , Christiansen Jørgen S. , Griffiths Andrew M. , Fevolden Svein‐Erik , Hop Haakon , Bakken Torkild
Published: June 2014

The skate fauna in the northern Northeast (NE) Atlantic is poorly investigated, and misidentifications are common. Here, ‘DNA barcoding’ was used to analyse 105 specimens of 15 species previously reported from the area to investigate the occurrence of species. Of these 15 species, three were new to the region and confirmed with voucher specimens. Three previously reported taxa were not obtained from the study area, providing a total number of 12 skate species for the northern NE Atlantic. Only one specimen of the critically endangered Dipturus batis complex was found. It occurs frequently in the literature and commercial fisheries catch records, and we argue that the vast majority of these are misidentifications. Due to striking differences in Amblyraja radiata life history parameters across the North Atlantic, cryptic species diversity has previously been suspected. A total of 80 A. radiata cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences from across the North Atlantic were sampled, and the highest fixation index (FST) was found when maximising geographical distance (FST = 0.133). A lower index was found when grouped according to life history (FST = 0.067). These results are not strongly supportive for the occurrence of cryptic species.
On the volume of isolated singularities
Authors: Zhang Yuchen
Published: June 2014

We give an equivalent definition of the local volume of an isolated singularity $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}{\rm Vol}_{\text {BdFF}}(X,0)$ given in [S. Boucksom, T. de Fernex, C. Favre, The volume of an isolated singularity. Duke Math. J. 161 (2012), 1455–1520] in the $\mathbb{Q}$-Gorenstein case and we generalize it to the non-$\mathbb{Q}$-Gorenstein case. We prove that there is a positive lower bound depending only on the dimension for the non-zero local volume of an isolated singularity if $X$ is Gorenstein. We also give a non-$\mathbb{Q}$-Gorenstein example with ${\rm Vol}_{\text {BdFF}}(X,0)=0$, which does not allow a boundary $\Delta $ such that the pair $(X,\Delta )$ is log canonical.
Computation of Ship-to-Ship Interaction Forces by a Three-Dimensional Potential-Flow Panel Method in Finite Water Depth
Authors: Zhou Xueqian , Sutulo Serge , Guedes Soares C.
Published: June 2014

A double-body 3D potential-flow code developed earlier for computing hydrodynamic interaction forces and moments acting on the hulls of the ships sailing in close proximity with neighboring ships or some other obstacles, is extended to the shallow water case. Two methods for accounting for the finite water depth were implemented: (1) using truncated mirror image series and (2) distribution of an additional single layer of sources on parts of the seabed beneath the moving hulls. While the first method does only apply to the flat horizontal seabed, the second one can also deal with the arbitrary bathymetry situations. As appropriate choice of the discretization parameters can significantly affect the accuracy and efficiency of the second method, the present contribution focuses on comparative computations aiming at defining reasonable dimensions of the moving paneled area on the sea bottom and maximum admissible size of the bottom panel. As result, conclusions concerning optimal parameters of the additional set of panels are drawn.
RANS Simulation Versus Experiments of Flow Induced Motion of Circular Cylinder With Passive Turbulence Control at 35,000 < RE < 130,000
Authors: Wu Wei , Bernitsas Michael M. , Maki Kevin
Published: June 2014

Two-dimensional (2D) Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes equations (URANS) equations with the Spalart–Allmaras turbulence model are used to simulate the flow and body kinematics of the transverse motion of spring-mounted circular cylinder. The flow is in the high-lift TrSL3 regime of a Reynolds number in the range 35,000 < Re < 130,000. Passive turbulence control (PTC) in the form of selectively distributed surface roughness is used to alter the cylinder flow induced motion (FIM). Simulation is performed using a solver based on the open source Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tool OpenFOAM, which solves continuum mechanics problems with a finite-volume discretization method. Roughness parameters of PTC are chosen based on tests conducted in the Marine Renewable Energy Lab (MRELab) of the University of Michigan. The numerical tool is first tested on smooth cylinder in vortex-induced vibration (VIV) and results are compared with available experimental measurements and URANS simulations. For the cylinder with PTC cases, the sandpaper grit on the cylinder wall is modeled as a rough-wall boundary condition. Two sets of cases with different system parameters (spring, damping) are simulated and the results are compared with experimental data measured in the MRELab. The amplitude ratio curve shows clearly three different branches, including the VIV initial and upper branches, and a galloping branch. The numerical branches are similar to those observed experimentally. Frequency ratio, vortex patterns, transitional behavior, and lift are also predicted well for PTC cylinders at such high Reynolds numbers.
Combustion and Emission Characterization of n-Butanol Fueled HCCI Engine
Authors: Kumar Maurya Rakesh , Kumar Agarwal Avinash
Published: June 2014

Biofuels are attracting global attention as alternate transportation fuels due to advantages of their being produced from locally available renewable resources, lower pollution potential, and biodegradable nature. Butanol is fast emerging as one of the competitive biofuels for use in transportation engines. Homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines have shown great potential for higher engine efficiency and ultralow NOx and particulate matter (PM) emissions. This experimental study is therefore carried out to combine the advantages of biofuels and HCCI engines, both. Detailed performance, combustion, and emission characteristics of n-butanol fueled HCCI engine are investigated experimentally. The study is conducted on a four cylinder diesel engine, whose one cylinder was modified to operate in HCCI combustion mode. Port fuel injection technique was used for homogeneous charge preparation in the intake manifold. Auto-ignition of fuel in the engine cylinder was achieved by intake air preheating. In-cylinder pressure-crank angle data acquisition with subsequent heat release analyses and exhaust emission measurements were done for combustion and emission characterization. In this paper, the effect of intake air temperature and air–fuel ratio on the combustion parameters, thermal and combustion efficiency, ringing intensity (RI), and emissions from n-butanol fueled HCCI engine were analyzed and discussed comprehensively. Empirical correlations were derived to fit the experimental data for various combustion parameters.
Hydration Status in Elite Wrestlers, Judokas, Boxers, and Taekwondo Athletes on Competition Day
Authors: Pettersson Stefan , Berg Christina M.
Published: June 2014

Weight category athletes are known for practicing rapid weight loss before competition weigh-in. After weigh-in, athletes strive to restore euhydration and body mass through food and fluid intake. The aim of the current study was to assess prevalence of hypohydration at competition time among elite athletes’ in four different combat sports, and how water intake and timing of official weigh-in were related to hydration status. Participants were 31 taekwondo practitioners and wrestlers who performed evening weigh-in (EWI) the night before competition day and had thus time for rehydration, and 32 boxers and judokas conducting competition day morning weigh-in (MWI). In total, 32% were female. Urine specific gravity (USG) was measured by refractometry on the competition day’s first morning urine sample. Hypohydration was defined as USG ≥1.020 and serious hypohydration as USG > 1.030. Water intake was measured by means of dietary records. The prevalence of hypohydration was 89% in the morning of competition day. Serious hypohydration was also prevalent. This was found in over 50% of MWI athletes and in 42% of the EWI group. A higher water intake, from both fluids and solid foods, in the evening before competition day was not associated with a more favorable hydration status the following morning. In conclusion, neither weigh-in close to competition nor evening weigh-in with more time for rehydration seems to prevent hypohydration before competition.
Influence of Caffeine and Sodium Citrate Ingestion on 1,500-m Exercise Performance in Elite Wheelchair Athletes: A Pilot Study
Authors: Flueck Joelle Leonie , Mettler Samuel , Perret Claudio
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate whether caffeine and/or sodium citrate have an ergogenic effect on the 1,500-m exercise performance in elite wheelchair athletes. A placebo-controlled, randomized, cross-over and double-blind study design was conducted with the four treatments placebo, caffeine, sodium citrate and the combination of caffeine and sodium citrate. Nine healthy, elite wheelchair-racing athletes (median: [min; max] age: 28 y [23; 54]; height: 173 cm [165; 188]; weight: 62.9 kg [48.9; 68.4], category T53/54) completed the study. All athletes were national team members, including several Paralympic Games, World and European Championship medalists. The athletes performed a 1,500-m time trial four times on a wheelchair training roller. Time to complete 1,500-m, pH, bicarbonate and sodium concentration as well as lactate concentration were measured. The time to complete 1,500-m was not significantly different between the four treatments (placebo: 170.6 s [141.7; 232.0]; caffeine: 179.5 s [134.8; 239.6]; sodium citrate: 178.3 s [136.4; 247.1]; combination: 177.6 s [136.1; 256.2]). However, pH and bicarbonate concentrations were significantly increased with sodium citrate ingestion compared with placebo. Moreover, maximal lactate concentrations were significantly higher in the caffeine and the combination treatment compared with placebo. The supplementation with sodium citrate and/or caffeine did not provide an ergogenic effect on the 1,500-m exercise performance in wheelchair elite athletes.
The Effect of Variable Doses of Inorganic Nitrate-Rich Beetroot Juice on Simulated 2000-m Rowing Performance in Trained Athletes
Authors: Hoon Matthew W. , Jones Andrew M. , Johnson Nathan A. , Blackwell Jamie R. , Broad Elizabeth M. , Lundy Bronwen , Rice Anthony J. , Burke Louise M.
Published: June 2014

Context:

Beetroot juice is a naturally rich source of inorganic nitrate (NO3−), a compound hypothesized to enhance endurance performance by improving exercise efficiency.

Purpose:

To investigate the effect of different doses of beetroot juice on 2000-m ergometer-rowing performance in highly trained athletes.

Methods:

Ten highly trained male rowers volunteered to participate in a placebo-controlled, double-blinded crossover study. Two hours before undertaking a 2000-m rowing-ergometer test, subjects consumed beetroot juice containing 0 mmol (placebo), 4.2 mmol (SINGLE), or 8.4 mmol (DOUBLE) NO3−. Blood samples were taken before supplement ingestion and immediately before the rowing test for analysis of plasma [NO3−] and [nitrite (NO2−)].

Results:

The SINGLE dose demonstrated a trivial effect on time to complete 2000 m compared with placebo (mean difference: 0.2 ± 2.5 s). A possibly beneficial effect was found with DOUBLE compared with SINGLE (mean difference –1.8 ± 2.1 s) and with placebo (–1.6 ± 1.6 s). Plasma [NO2−] and [NO3−] demonstrated a dose-response effect, with greater amounts of ingested nitrate leading to substantially higher concentrations (DOUBLE > SINGLE > placebo). There was a moderate but insignificant correlation (r = –.593, P = .055) between change in plasma [NO2−] and performance time.

Conclusion:

Compared with nitratedepleted beetroot juice, a high (8.4 mmol NO3−) but not moderate (4.2 mmol NO3−) dose of NO3− in beetroot juice, consumed 2 h before exercise, may improve 2000-m rowing performance in highly trained athletes.
Sodium Bicarbonate and High-Intensity-Cycling Capacity: Variability in Responses
Authors: Saunders Bryan , Sale Craig , Harris Roger C. , Sunderland Caroline
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

To determine whether gastrointestinal (GI) distress affects the ergogenicity of sodium bicarbonate and whether the degree of alkalemia or other metabolic responses is different between individuals who improve exercise capacity and those who do not.

Methods:

Twenty-one men completed 2 cycling-capacity tests at 110% of maximum power output. Participants were supplemented with 0.3 g/kg body mass of either placebo (maltodextrin) or sodium bicarbonate (SB). Blood pH, bicarbonate, base excess, and lactate were determined at baseline, preexercise, immediately postexercise, and 5 min postexercise.

Results:

SB supplementation did not significantly increase total work done (TWD; P = .16, 46.8 · 9.1 vs 45.6 · 8.4 kJ, d = 0.14), although magnitude-based inferences suggested a 63% likelihood of a positive effect. When data were analyzed without 4 participants who experienced GI discomfort, TWD (P = .01) was significantly improved with SB. Immediately postexercise blood lactate was higher in SB for the individuals who improved but not for those who did not. There were also differences in the preexercise-to-postexercise change in blood pH, bicarbonate, and base excess between individuals who improved and those who did not.

Conclusions:

SB improved high-intensity-cycling capacity but only with the exclusion of participants experiencing GI discomfort. Differences in blood responses suggest that SB may not be beneficial to all individuals. Magnitude-based inferences suggested that the exercise effects are unlikely to be negative; therefore, individuals should determine whether they respond well to SB supplementation before competition.
The Validity of the Session-RPE Method for Quantifying Training Load in Water Polo
Authors: Lupo Corrado , Capranica Laura , Tessitore Antonio
Published: June 2014

Context:

The assessment of internal training load (ITL) using the session rating of perceived exertion (session RPE) has been demonstrated to provide valuable information, also in team sports. Nevertheless, no studies have investigated the use of this method during youth water polo training.

Purpose:

To evaluate youth water polo training, showing the corresponding level of reliability of the session-RPE method.

Methods:

Thirteen male youth water polo players (age 15.6 ± 0.5 y, height 1.80 ± 0.06 m, body mass 72.7 ± 7.8 kg) were monitored during 8 training sessions (80 individual training sessions) over 10 d. The Edwards summated heart-rate-zone method was used as a reference measure of ITL; the session-RPE rating was obtained using CR-10 scale modified by Foster. The Pearson product–moment was applied to regress the Edwards heart-rate-zone method against CR-10 session RPE for each training session and individual data.

Results:

Analyses reported overall high (r = .88, R2 = .78) and significant (P < .001) correlations between the Edwards heart-rate and session-RPE methods. Significant correlations were also shown for each training session (r range .69–.92, R2 range .48–.85, P < .05) and individual data (r range .76–.98, R2 range .58–.97, P < .05).

Discussion:

The results confirmed that the session-RPE method as an easy and reliable tool to evaluate ITL in youth water polo, allowing coaches to efficiently monitor their training plans.
Running Economy During a Simulated 60-km Trial
Authors: Schena Federico , Pellegrini Barbara , Tarperi Cantor , Calabria Elisa , Luca Salvagno Gian , Capelli Carlo
Published: June 2014

The effect of a prolonged running trial on the energy cost of running (Cr) during a 60-km ultramarathon simulation at the pace of a 100-km competition was investigated in 13 men (40.8 ± 5.6 y, 70.7 ± 5.5 kg, 177.5 ± 4.5 cm) and 5 women (40.4 ± 2.3 y, 53.7 ± 4.4 kg, 162.4 ± 4.8 cm) who participated in a 60-km trial consisting of 3 consecutive 20-km laps. Oxygen uptake (VO2) at steady state was determined at constant speed before the test and at the end of each lap; stride length (SL) and frequency and contact time were measured at the same time points; serum creatine kinase (S-CPK) was measured before and at the end of the test. Cr in J · kg−1 · m−1, as calculated from VO2ss and respiratory-exchange ratio, did not increase with distance. SL significantly decreased with distance. The net increase in S-CPK was linearly related with the percentage increase of Cr observed during the trial. It is concluded that, in spite of increased S-CPK, this effort was not able to elicit any peripheral or central fatigue or biomechanical adaptation leading to any modification of Cr.
Acute Physiological Response to Aerobic Short-Interval Training in Trained Runners
Authors: Wallner Dietmar , Simi Helmut , Tschakert Gerhard , Hofmann Peter
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

To analyze the acute physiological response to aerobic short-interval training (AESIT) at various high-intensity running speeds. A minor anaerobic glycolytic energy supply was aimed to mimic the characteristics of slow continuous runs.

Methods:

Eight trained male runners (maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max] 55.5 ± 3.3 mL · kg−1 · min−1) performed an incremental treadmill exercise test (increments: 0.75 km · h−1 · min−1). Two lactate turn points (LTP1, LTP2) were determined. Subsequently, 3 randomly assigned AESIT sessions with high-intensity running-speed intervals were performed at speeds close to the speed (v) at VO2max (vVO2max) to create mean intensities of 50%, 55%, and 60% of vLTP1. AESIT sessions lasted 30 min and consisted of 10-s work phases, alternated by 20-s passive recovery phases.

Results:

To produce mean velocities of 50%, 55%, and 60% of vLTP1, running speeds were calculated as 18.6 ± 0.7 km/h (93.4% vVO2max), 20.2 ± 0.6 km/h (101.9% vVO2max), and 22.3 ± 0.7 km/h (111.0% vVO2max), which gave a mean blood lactate concentration (La) of 1.09 ± 0.31 mmol/L, 1.57 ± 0.52 mmol/L, and 2.09 ± 0.99 mmol/L, respectively. La at 50% of vLTP1 was not significantly different from La at vLTP1 (P = .8894). Mean VO2 was found at 54.0%, 58.5%, and 64.0% of VO2max, while at the end of the sessions VO2 rose to 71.1%, 80.4%, and 85.6% of VO2max, respectively.

Conclusion:

The results showed that AESIT with 10-s work phases alternating with 20 s of passive rest and a running speed close to vVO2max gave a systemic aerobic metabolic profile similar to slow continuous runs.
Impact of Park Renovations on Park Use and Park-Based Physical Activity
Authors: Cohen Deborah A. , Han Bing , Isacoff Jennifer , Shulaker Bianca , Williamson Stephanie , Marsh Terry , McKenzie Thomas L. , Weir Megan , Bhatia Rajiv
Published: June 2014

Background:

Given the concerns about low rates of physical activity among low-income minority youth, many communitybased organizations are investing in the creation or renovation of public parks to encourage youth to become more physically active. To what degree park renovations accomplish this goal is not known.

Methods:

We used the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to measure park users and their physical activity levels before and after 2 parks were renovated. We compared findings with 4 parks: 2 that were unrenovated parks and 2 that were undergoing renovation. We also surveyed park users and local residents about their use of the parks.

Results:

Compared with parks that had not yet been renovated, the improved parks saw more than a doubling in the number of visitors and a substantial increase in energy expended in the parks. Increased park use was pronounced in adults and children, but was not seen in teens and seniors. Park renovations were associated with a significantly increased perception of park safety.

Conclusions:

Park improvements can have a significant impact on increasing park use and local physical activity.
The Tipping Point: The Intersection of Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation in Intercollegiate Sports
Authors: Walker Nefertiti A. , Melton E. Nicole
Published: June 2014

To date, sport research on sexuality has primarily focused on White lesbian, bisexual, and gay (LBG) persons or heterosexual racial minorities; few studies have provided meaningful insight into how sexual prejudice affects racial minorities. Thus, the purpose of the current study is to explore the intersection of race, sexual orientation, and gender in the context of collegiate sport and examine the influence of multiple marginalized identities on organizational outcomes. Grounded in intersectionality literature and feminist standpoint theory, semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 current and former intercollegiate sport employees. Results revealed four higher order themes: (a) racially influenced experiences, (b) managing lesbian-ness, (c) organizational climate, and (d) organizational outcomes. This research expands the theoretical knowledge of intersectionality, introduces a turnover intention tipping point phenomenon, and provides mangers with firsthand feedback on current policy and norms that may decrease satisfaction.
Racial Identity and Its Impact on Job Applicants
Authors: Steward Astin D. , Cunningham George B.
Published: June 2014

Across two experimental studies, the purpose of this research project was to examine how Whites evaluate African Americans with a strong racial identity. In Study 1, participants evaluated applicants for an athletic director position. Relative to their weakly identified counterparts, applicants believed to possess a strong racial identity were rated as a poorer fit for the job. Results from Study 2, which was also set within the context of hiring an athletic director, show that participant social dominance orientation moderates the relationship between racial identity and subsequent evaluations. The authors discuss theoretical and practical implications, limitations, and future directions.
Differences in Joint-Position Sense and Vibratory Threshold in Runners With and Without a History of Overuse Injury
Authors: Switlick Tiffany , Kernozek Thomas W. , Meardon Stacey
Published: June 2014

Context:

A relationship between altered postural control and injury has been reported in sports. Sensorimotor function serves a fundamental role in postural control and is not often studied in runners. Persons who sustain running injury may have altered sensorimotor function contributing to risk of injury or reinjury.

Objectives:

To determine if differences in knee and ankle proprioception or plantar sensation exist between injured and noninjured runners.

Design:

Retrospective case-control study.

Setting:

University campus.

Participants:

Twenty runners with a history of lower-extremity overuse injury and 20 noninjured runners were examined. Injured runners were subcategorized into 2 groups based on site of injury: foot/ankle and knee/hip.

Main Outcome Measures:

Active absolute joint-repositioning error of the ankle at 20° inversion and 10° eversion and the knee at 15° and 40° flexion was assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. Vibratory threshold at the calcaneus, arch, and great toe was determined for each subject using a handheld electric sensory threshold instrument.

Results:

Runners in the injured-foot/ankle group had increased absolute error during ankle-eversion repositioning (6.55° ± 3.58°) compared with those in the noninjured (4.04° ± 1.78°, P = .01) and the hip/knee (3.63° ± 2.2°, P = .01) groups. Runners in the injured group, as a whole, had greater sensitivity in the arch of the plantar surface (2.94 ± 0.52 V) than noninjured runners (2.38 ± 0.53 V, P = .02).

Conclusions:

Differences in ankle-eversion proprioception between runners with a history of ankle and foot injuries and noninjured runners were observed. Runners with a history of injury also displayed an increased vibratory threshold in the arch region compared with noninjured runners. Poor ankle-joint-position sense and increased plantar sensitivity suggest altered sensorimotor function after injury. These factors may influence underlying postural control and contribute to altered loading responses commonly observed in injured runners.
Serotonin syndrome versus neuroleptic malignant syndrome: a challenging clinical quandary
Authors: Dosi Rupal , Ambaliya Annirudh , Joshi Harshal , Patell Rushad
Published: June 2014

Serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome are two drug toxidromes that have often overlapping and confusing clinical pictures. We report a case of a young man who presented with alteration of mental status, autonomic instability and neuromuscular hyperexcitability following ingestion of multiple psychiatric and antiepileptic medications. The patient satisfied criteria for serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and based on the characteristic clinical features, laboratory findings and clinical course it was concluded that the patient had both toxidromes. The patient was managed with cyproheptadine and supportive measures, and recovered over the course of 3 weeks. A brief review of literature highlighting the diagnostic clues as well as the importance of recognising and distinguishing the often missed and confounding diagnoses follows.
An unusual case of bowel perforation
Authors: Lazarescu Roxana Elena , Bohm Kelley
Published: June 2014

Bowel perforation is a potentially fatal complication of obstruction, ischaemia, trauma, surgery and medications. It is recognised by clinical suspicion based on history, symptoms of severe abdominal pain and signs such as rebound tenderness, as well as imaging showing free air in the abdomen. Bevacizumab (aka avastin) is an antineoplastic recombinant monoclonal antibody that inhibits angiogenesis in a variety of malignancies. Colonic perforation is a recognised but rare complication of this therapy, likely due to aforementioned bowel ischaemia or compromised mucosal microcirculation which increases susceptibility to injury. We are presenting a case of an unrecognised bowel perforation caused in a patient with abdominal carcinomatosis.
Coexisiting adenoma and granuloma involving the right inferior parathyroid gland with adjacent ectopic thymic tissue
Authors: Gupta Mayank , Kandasamy Subramaniam
Published: June 2014

Inflammatory lesions, particularly granulomas, involving adenoma of the parathyroid gland are rare. Ectopic thymic tissue is commonly associated with the thyroid and/or parathyroid gland due to their close embryonic relationship. We report a rare case of coexisting adenoma and granuloma of the parathyroid gland with adjacent ectopic thymic tissue.
Changes in markers of brain serotonin activity in response to chronic exercise in senior men
Authors: Melancon Michel O. , Lorrain Dominique , Dionne Isabelle J.
Published: June 2014

Aging is associated with noticeable impairments in brain serotonin transmission, which might contribute to increased vulnerability to developing depression in later life. Animal and human studies have shown that aerobic exercise can stimulate brain serotonin activity and trigger parallel elevations in tryptophan (TRP, the serotonin precursor) availability in blood plasma. However, the influence of chronic exercise on serotonergic activity in older adults is not yet known. Sixteen men aged 64 ± 3 years exercised for 1 h (67%–70% peak oxygen consumption) at baseline and following 16 weeks of aerobic training. The main outcome measures were cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), TRP, prolactin, lactate, and free fatty acids (FFA). Changes in plasma free-TRP/BCAA and prolactin served as surrogates for TRP availability and serotonin activity, respectively. Chronic exercise decreased body mass (P < 0.05) whilst it increased ventilatory threshold 2 (P < 0.01). Although training did not affect plasma TRP availability to the brain at rest, both pre- and post-training exercise challenges markedly increased TRP availability (P < 0.001). The free-TRP/BCAA values reached a ceiling during exercise that was lower following training (P < 0.05), whereas similar patterns were found for prolactin, lactate, and FFA. These data show that aerobic exercise elicits consistent transient elevations in plasma TRP availability to the brain in older men; the elevations were independent from physical training, although less pronounced following training. The data support the contention that repeated elevations in brain serotonin activity might be involved in the antidepressant effect of exercise training in older adults.
Lessons from a red squirrel, mentors, and the pathway to success
Authors: Reithmeier Reinhart A.F.
Published: June 2014

In this article I will review my personal career path starting with how a red squirrel got me interested in research, and the vital role that mentors played in my pathway to success — a pathway that taught me many lessons that I would like to share with the reader, particularly graduate students and post-doctoral fellows who are just starting down their own unique pathways.
Where the waters meet: sharing ideas and experiences between inland and marine realms to promote sustainable fisheries management
Authors: Cooke S.J. , Arlinghaus R. , Bartley D.M. , Beard T.D. , Cowx I.G. , Essington T.E. , Jensen O.P. , Lynch A. , Taylor W.W. , Watson R.
Published: June 2014

Although inland and marine environments, their fisheries, fishery managers, and the realm-specific management approaches are often different, there are a surprising number of similarities that frequently go unrecognized. We contend that there is much to be gained by greater cross-fertilization and exchange of ideas and strategies between realms and the people who manage them. The purpose of this paper is to provide examples of the potential or demonstrated benefits of working across aquatic boundaries for enhanced sustainable management of the world’s fisheries resources. Examples include the need to (1) engage in habitat management and protection as the foundation for fisheries, (2) rethink institutional arrangements and management for open-access fisheries systems, (3) establish “reference points” and harvest control rules, (4) engage in integrated management approaches, (5) reap conservation benefits from the link to fish as food, and (6) reframe conservation and management of fish to better engage the public and industry. Cross-fertilization and knowledge transfer between realms could be realized using environment-independent curricula and symposia, joint scientific advisory councils for management, integrated development projects, and cross-realm policy dialogue. Given the interdependence of marine and inland fisheries, promoting discussion between the realms has the potential to promote meaningful advances in managing global fisheries.