bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fare Thee Well? An Analysis of Buyout Funds’ Exit Strategies
Authors: Fürth Sven , Rauch Christian
Published: June 2014

This paper analyzes exit strategies of buyout funds in portfolio companies following initial public offerings (IPOs). We use a data set of 222 buyout‐backed IPOs in the United States from 1999 to 2008, including hand‐collected data about each exit process, to draw a detailed roadmap of buyout investors’ divestment processes. Using this data, we document the timing and aggressiveness of the exit strategies, and analyze to which degree a multitude of possible determinants influence the choice of a given exit strategy. Our results indicate that buyout funds remain invested in their portfolio companies for a substantial period of time after the IPO, and that the choice of a given exit strategy depends not only upon the characteristics of each respective portfolio company, but also on the financial success of the deal from the perspective of the buyout investor.
Corporate Governance and Corporate Financing and Investment during the 2007‐2008 Financial Crisis
Authors: Nguyen Tu , Nguyen H.G. (Lily) , Yin Xiangkang
Published: June 2014

We examine the impact of the 2007‐2008 financial crisis on nonfinancial firms’ financing and investment activities and the role of corporate governance in alleviating the adverse consequences of the external capital supply shock. Employing a difference‐in‐differences research design, we find that better governance mitigates the disruption caused by the bank credit supply shock to firms’ financing and investment activities. A variety of robustness tests suggest that our findings are unlikely to be driven by an endogeneity problem. We obtain similar results when we extend the sample period to include the delayed spillover from the banking sector to other capital market sectors.
Naïve migrants and the use of magnetic cues: temporal fluctuations in the geomagnetic field differentially affect male and femaleRuffPhilomachus pugnaxduring their first migration
Authors: Rakhimberdiev Eldar , Karagicheva Julia , Jaatinen Kim , Winkler David W. , Phillips John B. , Piersma Theunis
Published: June 2014

In many species, naïve first‐time migrants undertake migration without adults, supposedly on the basis of a ‘simple’ vector programme that combines an innate directional preference with a temporal programme that specifies distance. In strongly dimorphic species in which the sexes show distinct ecological requirements, the innate mechanisms of navigation may be expected to diverge between males and females with respect to their specific destinations. Based on captures of juvenile RuffPhilomachus pugnaxat a migratory stopover over 21 years, a correlation was found between the year‐specific sex ratio and the global magnetic field disturbance during the 2 weeks prior to the peak of captures in that year. This suggests that males and females respond differently to geomagnetic disturbance with changes in either the direction of migration or the level of migratory activity, and implies sex‐specificity in the use of their geomagnetic navigational ‘toolbox’.
Colonization and extinction dynamics of a declining migratory bird are influenced by climate and habitat degradation
Authors: Mustin Karen , Amar Arjun , Redpath Stephen M.
Published: June 2014

Uncovering the mechanisms involved in the decline of long‐distance migrants remains one of the most pressing issues inEuropean conservation. Since the 1980s, theBritish breeding population ofGardenWarblerSylvia borinhas declined by more than 25%. Here we use data from repeated bird surveys of woodland sites in the 1980s and in 2003–2004 to show that, although the overall population declined between the two periods, the probability of occupancy for this species increased at high latitudes and decreased at low latitudes. Range shifts such as this arise from a change in the ratio of colonizations to extinctions at the range margins, and we therefore related colonization and local extinction at the patch level to concurrent changes in temperature and habitat. The probability of patch colonization by this species was significantly lower where the percentage cover of vegetation in the understorey had declined, reducing habitat quality for this species. The probability of local extinction was significantly correlated with increasing mean May temperature, which may reflect a change in phenology, making breeding conditions less suitable. Changed regimes of grazing and woodland management could be used to increase habitat suitability and thereby increase colonization probability at the local scale, which may in turn increase the probability of patch occupancy despite future climatic unsuitability.
Mitochondrial, nuclear, and endosymbiotic diversity of two recently introduced populations of the invasive Bemisia tabaci MED species in La Réunion
Authors: Thierry Magali , Bile Audrey , Grondin Martial , Reynaud Bernard , Becker Nathalie , Delatte Hélène
Published: June 2014

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a worldwide pest considered to be a complex of cryptic species. Its identification is primarily based on mitochondrial COI sequences. Microsatellite markers can also be used to identify this species and to study its population structure. Moreover, B. tabaci species harbour quite specific endosymbiont communities that can constitute additional markers for identification. Previous studies have demonstrated the occurrence of two B. tabaci species on the island of La Réunion: the exotic MEAM1 and the indigenous IO. A recent field survey revealed unusually high densities of whiteflies in Saint Pierre, and this could reflect the introduction of a new B. tabaci species.

To test the putative introduction of a new invasive species, B. tabaci individuals were collected at Saint Pierre and at six additional sites. Among these samples, analyses were conducted on mitochondrial COI, microsatellites, and endosymbiont communities.

Based on the mitochondrial COI marker, we detected in Saint Pierre two subgroups (Eastern and Western) characteristic of the invasive MED species. This is the first time these subgroups have been found in La Réunion. The analysis of microsatellite data from the seven sites around the island showed that (i) the geographical distribution of MED seems confined to Saint Pierre, (ii) no hybrids were detected between MED individuals and the resident species, and (iii) the MED population, while exhibiting two mitochondrial haplotypes, has a homogenous nuclear genetic background. The two MED subgroups differing in their mitochondrial haplotype also specifically differed in their endosymbiotic diversity.
Factors affecting self‐care in elderly patients with hypertension in Korea
Authors: Chang Ae Kyung , Lee Eun Ju
Published: June 2014

The objective of this study was to test nine variables which derived from the model of self‐care in chronic illness and previous studies on elderly patients with hypertension. A descriptive research design was employed in this study. Totally, 306 elderly patients diagnosed with hypertension were selected from three public health centres for the study. The stepwise regression analysis was conducted by analysing predictors of self‐care in elderly patients with hypertension. Statistical analyses, including correlation analysis, t‐test and analysis of variance tests were conducted for seven variables. The results indicated that only four variables were significant, and the model explained 57% of the variance in self‐care. Among these predictors, empowerment was the strongest predictor, followed by social support, depression and perceived severity. These findings demonstrate the significance of assessing predictors of self‐care behaviour when examining patients' health behaviours and planning intervention strategies.
Midurethral autologous fascial sling surgery with reconstruction of the lower abdominal wall using the tensor fascia lata muscle flap for post‐hemipelvectomy stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Niimi Aya , Igawa Yasuhiko , Fujimura Tetsuya , Suzuki Motofumi , Mihara Makoto , Koshima Isao , Homma Yukio
Published: June 2014

Hemipelvectomy is surgery for pelvic bone neoplasms. In the case of pubic bone osteosarcoma, the distal end of the rectus abdominis muscle is severed from the pubic and ischium bones, and the pelvic floor muscles are resected en bloc with the bone, which leads to stress urinary incontinence. Cancer control is prioritized over complications, and stress urinary incontinence is generally disregarded. A 25‐year‐old woman presented with stress urinary incontinence. She had undergone a hemipelvectomy for left pubic bone osteosarcoma, and stress urinary incontinence appeared and persisted since the surgery. We carried out a reconstruction of the tissue deficit of the rectus abdominis using the tensor fascia lata muscle flap simultaneously with a midurethral autologous fascial sling anchoring to the tensor fascia lata flap. Stress incontinence was successfully improved without morbidity. This is the first reported case of midurethral suspension with reconstruction of the lower abdominal wall with the tensor fascia lata flap for post‐hemipelvectomy stress urinary incontinence.
Myxobolus cerebralis (Hofer) infection risk in native cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii (Richardson) and its relationships to tributary environments in the Yellowstone Lake Basin
Authors: Murcia S , Kerans B L , Koel T M , MacConnell E
Published: June 2014

Conservation of native species is challenged by the introduction of non‐native pathogens and diseases into aquatic and terrestrial environments worldwide. In the Yellowstone Lake basin, Yellowstone National Park, the invasive parasite causing salmonid whirling disease Myxobolus cerebralis (Hofer) has been identified as one factor contributing to population declines of native Yellowstone cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri (Jordan & Gilbert). In 2002 and 2003, we examined relationships between the stream environment and severity of M. cerebralis infection in native trout. Coefficients of variation of environmental features were calculated to examine variability. Ten years later, we reassessed infection levels at 22 tributaries broadly across the system. Results of principal component analysis (PCA) of physical features (2003) were negatively correlated with infection severity, mostly in lower jaw cartilage of cutthroat trout, and PCA of chemical features (and temperature) correlated with infection severity in cranial cartilage. Pelican Creek, where M. cerebralis prevalence and severity was high 2002–2003, remained high in 2012. We did not find evidence that the parasite had dispersed further within the system. Variable environmental features (physiological stress) across short spatiotemporal scales within a stream or season may possibly predispose salmonids to infection in the wild and facilitate parasite establishment.
A three‐dimensional measurement approach for the morphology of the femoral head
Authors: Martin Charys M. , Turgeon James G. , Goela Aashish , Rice Charles L. , Wilson Timothy D.
Published: June 2014

The hip joint is one of the most frequent sites of osteoarthritis. Advances in diagnosis and clinical treatment have progressed dramatically in the last few decades; however, there are limitations associated with the lack of reliable measures for quantifying hip joint morphology. Current diagnostic measures of the hip are performed with pre‐determined measures, typically lengths and angles, on 2D radiographic planes. The current measurement techniques do not utilize the inherent 3D nature of CT and MR imaging and do not necessarily quantify the relevant clinical pathologies. A valid and reliable measurement modality that measures the surface geometry of the femoral head is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment of hip disease. The purpose of this study was to establish a method to quantify femoral head morphology using a three‐dimensional model. A novel measurement approach was applied to 45 cadaveric femurs (23 right; 22 left; nine female, 17 male) and their digitally reconstructed 3D CT models. The mean difference between the cadaveric and digital measures was −2.04 mm with 95% confidence limits (CI) of 13.67 mm and −17.75 mm, respectively. The digital measurement approach was found to have excellent intraobserver reliability (ICC = 0.99, CI 0.98–0.99) and interobserver reliability (ICC = 0.98, CI 0.93–0.99). This valid and reliable novel digital measurement approach enables quantification of the 3D surface geometry of the femoral head and is able to measure individual variations and potentially detect abnormalities. This method may be used to assist future studies to establish valid diagnostic measurements for femoral head and head–neck junction pathologies.
Acute encephalitis in children: Progress and priorities from an Australasian perspective
Authors: Britton Philip N , Dale Russell C , Booy Robert , Jones Cheryl A
Published: June 2014

Encephalitis is a complex neurological syndrome caused by inflammation of the brain that occurs with highest incidence in children. It is challenging to diagnose and manage due to the variety of aetiologies and non‐specific clinical presentations. We discuss the recent progress in clinical case definitions; review recent, large, prospective epidemiological studies; and describe aetiologies. We emphasise infectious causes relevant to children in Australasia but also consider emerging immune‐mediated syndromes responsive to immune therapies. We identify priorities for future research in children, given the potential for climate change and international travel to influence the emergence of infectious agents in our region.
The framework for board accountability in corporate governance
Authors: Keay Andrew , Loughrey Joan
Published: June 2014

In the wake of the financial crisis, there has been much discussion about whether boards (particularly of banks) are sufficiently accountable. However, while a significant literature has grown up in relation to the study of accountability in various disciplines, particularly public administration and politics, in the field of corporate governance there has been little consideration of what accountability means or entails. This is problematic: without a clearer idea of the elusive concept of accountability, debates about board accountability may be at cross-purposes. It will be difficult to assess whether particular corporate governance mechanisms promote board accountability, and if not, why not. The lack of clarity can also mask accountability deficits. This paper addresses this gap, setting out why accountability is important and offering an account of what accountability means in the corporate governance context, focusing on board accountability, in order to provide a framework for future research.
Increased incidence of juvenile‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus among children with asthma
Authors: Wei Chang‐Ching , Lin Cheng‐Li , Shen Te‐Chun , Tsai Jeng‐Dau , Chung Chi‐Jung , Li Tsai‐Chung
Published: June 2014

Background

Children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have an especially aggressive disease course and poor outcomes. Previous studies demonstrated a possible association between SLE and allergies, but the relationship between these disorders remains unclear. This population‐based cohort study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk of juvenile‐onset SLE (JSLE) among children with asthma.

Methods

From 2000 to 2003, 120,939 children with newly diagnosed asthma and 483,756 randomly selected non‐asthma controls were enrolled. We used a multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression model to measure and compare the incidence rate and risk of JSLE in the asthma and non‐asthma cohorts.

Results

The overall incidence of JSLE was 2.52 times greater in the asthma cohort than that in the non‐asthma cohort [3.49 vs. 1.53 per 100,000 person‐years; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.59–3.99]. The risk of JSLE was greatest among boys [hazard ratio (HR) 3.02, 95% CI: 1.21–7.52] and children aged 6–10 yr (HR 3.50, 95% CI: 1.75–7.02). The HR of JSLE increased with greater frequency of asthma‐related medical visits from 1.22 (95% CI: 0.67–1.41) for those with ≤2 visits/yr to 5.88 (95% CI: 3.43–10.1) for subjects with >2 visits/yr (trend test p < 0.001). However, the risk of JSLE declined over time.

Conclusion

We found an increased incidence of JSLE among children with asthma. The mechanism of asthma on JSLE development should be elucidated to establish innovative disease intervention programs.
Optical coherence tomography for the evaluation of asymmetric cardiac allograft vasculopathy in a child
Authors: Greenway Steven C. , Hosking Martin , Harris Kevin C.
Published: June 2014

We present an unusual case of CAV in a child with isolated disease in the LAD coronary artery. Initial progression of the disease appeared to have been halted by the use of sirolimus, but the assessment of disease in other vessels (particularly the RCA) was of particular importance in deciding whether or not to relist this patient for transplantation. Due to the known limitations of coronary angiography, we used OCT to assess for angiographically silent CAV. The normal intravascular appearance of the RCA by OCT was reassuring, and the child was not relisted for transplantation. OCT offers multiple advantages for the assessment of CAV in children.
Characterization and epidemiology of Colletotrichum acutatum sensu lato (C. chrysanthemi) causing Carthamus tinctorius anthracnose
Authors: Baroncelli R. , Sarrocco S. , Zapparata A. , Tavarini S. , Angelini L. G. , Vannacci G.
Published: June 2014

In 2012, Colletotrichum isolates were collected from field‐grown safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) crops in central Italy from plants exhibiting typical anthracnose symptoms. Colletotrichum isolates were also collected from seed surfaces and from within seeds. The genetic variability of these isolates was assessed by a multilocus sequencing approach and compared with those from Colletotrichum chrysanthemi and Colletotrichum carthami isolates from different geographic areas and other Colletotrichum acutatum sensu lato‐related isolates. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all of the strains isolated from C. tinctorius belonged to the species described as C. chrysanthemi, whereas all of the strains belonging to C. carthami had been isolated from Calendula officinalis. Phenotypic characterization of isolates was performed by assessing growth rates at different temperatures, morphology of colonies on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and the size of conidia. All C. chrysanthemi isolates from safflower had similar growth rates at different temperatures, comparable colony morphologies when grown on PDA and conidial sizes consistent with previously described C. chrysanthemi isolates. Pathogenicity tests were performed by artificially inoculating both seeds and plants and confirmed the seedborne nature of this pathogen. When inoculated on plants, C. chrysanthemi caused the typical symptoms of anthracnose on leaves. This is the first record of this pathogen on C. tinctorius in Italy, and it presents an updated characterization of Colletotrichum isolates pathogenic to safflowers in Europe.
Predictors of length of hospital stay for patients with late‐onset depression in Japan
Authors: Matsumoto Takuya , Kobayashi Toshiyuki , Kato Satoshi
Published: June 2014

Background

The length of hospital stay (LOHS) for elderly patients tends to be long. We aimed to identify factors related to long hospitalization periods for elderly Japanese patients with late‐onset depression.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 133 patients with late‐onset depression. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to confirm the relationship between each clinical feature and the duration of hospital stay.

Results

The mean LOHS was 83.9 ± 55.6 days. On the basis of univariate analysis, we found that living as a housewife, death of a close relative or friend, recurrent depression, melancholic features, and treatment with electroconvulsive therapy, tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressants or mood stabilizer were associated with a longer LOHS. Multivariate analysis showed that treatment with tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressants, atypical antipsychotics were associated with prolonged LOHS.

Conclusions

These results suggest that job status, changes in household circumstances and the failure of initial treatment is responsible for the long LOHS in Japan.
Segmental and suprasegmental features in speech perception inCantonese‐speaking second graders: AnERPstudy
Authors: Tong Xiuhong , McBride Catherine , Lee Chia‐Ying , Zhang Juan , Shuai Lan , Maurer Urs , Chung Kevin K. H.
Published: June 2014

Using a multiple‐deviant oddball paradigm, this study examined second graders' brain responses toCantonese speech. We aimed to address the question of whether a change in a consonant or lexical tone could be automatically detected by children. We measured auditory mismatch responses to place of articulation and voice onset time (VOT), reflecting segmental perception, as well asCantonese lexical tones including level tone and contour tone, reflecting suprasegmental perception. The data showed that robust mismatch negativities (MMNs) were elicited by all deviants in the time window of 300–500 ms in second graders. Moreover, relative to the standard stimuli, theVOTdeviant elicited a robust positive mismatch response, and the level tone deviant elicited a significantMMNin the time window of 150–300 ms. The findings suggest thatHongKong second graders were sensitive to neural discriminations of speech sounds both at the segmental and suprasegmental levels.
Is VIP1 important for Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation?
Authors: Shi Yong , Lee Lan‐Ying , Gelvin Stanton B.
Published: June 2014

Agrobacterium genetically transforms plants by transferring and integrating T‐(transferred) DNA into the host genome. This process requires both Agrobacterium and host proteins. VirE2 interacting protein 1 (VIP1), an Arabidopsis bZIP protein, has been suggested to mediate transformation through interaction with and targeting of VirE2 to nuclei. We examined the susceptibility of Arabidopsis vip1 mutant and VIP1 overexpressing plants to transformation by numerous Agrobacterium strains. In no instance could we detect altered transformation susceptibility. We also used confocal microscopy to examine the subcellular localization of Venus‐tagged VirE2 or Venus‐tagged VIP1, in the presence or absence of the other untagged protein, in different plant cell systems. We found that VIP1–Venus localized in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus of Arabidopsis roots, agroinfiltrated Nicotiana benthamiana leaves, Arabidopsis mesophyll protoplasts and tobacco BY‐2 protoplasts, regardless of whether VirE2 was co‐expressed. VirE2 localized exclusively to the cytoplasm of tobacco and Arabidopsis protoplasts, whether in the absence or presence of VIP1 overexpression. In transgenic Arabidopsis plants and agroinfiltrated N. benthamina leaves we could occasionally detect small aggregates of the Venus signal in nuclei, but these were likely to be imagining artifacts. The vast majority of VirE2 remained in the cytoplasm. We conclude that VIP1 is not important for Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation or VirE2 subcellular localization.
Distributed Algorithms for Stochastic Source Seeking With Mobile Robot Networks
Authors: Atanasov Nikolay A. , Le Ny Jerome , Pappas George J.
Published: June 2014

Autonomous robot networks are an effective tool for monitoring large-scale environmental fields. This paper proposes distributed control strategies for localizing the source of a noisy signal, which could represent a physical quantity of interest such as magnetic force, heat, radio signal, or chemical concentration. We develop algorithms specific to two scenarios: one in which the sensors have a precise model of the signal formation process and one in which a signal model is not available. In the model-free scenario, a team of sensors is used to follow a stochastic gradient of the signal field. Our approach is distributed, robust to deformations in the group geometry, does not necessitate global localization, and is guaranteed to lead the sensors to a neighborhood of a local maximum of the field. In the model-based scenario, the sensors follow a stochastic gradient of the mutual information (MI) between their expected measurements and the expected source location in a distributed manner. The performance is demonstrated in simulation using a robot sensor network to localize the source of a wireless radio signal.
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of the Fluid-Structure Interaction in Presence of a Hyperelastic Body
Authors: Esmailzadeh H. , Passandideh-Fard M.
Published: June 2014

In this study, a numerical algorithm is developed for simulating the interaction between a fluid and a 2D/axisymmetric hyperelastic body based on a full Eulerian fluid-structure interaction (FSI) method. In this method, the solid volume fraction is used for describing the multicomponent material and the deformation tensor for describing the deformation of the hyperelastic body. The core elements of the simulation method are the constitutive law in the Cauchy stress form and an equation for the transport of the deformation tensor field. A semi-implicit formulation is used for the elastic stress to avoid instability especially for solid with high stiffness. The strain rate has a discontinuity across the fluid/solid interface. For improving the accuracy in capturing the interface, solid is treated as a highly viscous fluid. The viscosity term has the effect of smoothing the velocity and keeping the simulation stable. An experimental setup is used to validate the numerical results. The movement of a sphere made of silicone in air and its impact on a rigid substrate are investigated. The images are captured using a high speed CCD camera and the image processing technique is employed to obtain the required data from the images. For all cases considered, the results are in good agreement with those of the experiment performed in this study and other numerical results reported in the literature.
Experimental Investigations of Particulate Size and Number Distribution in an Ethanol and Methanol Fueled HCCI Engine
Authors: Maurya Rakesh Kumar , Agarwal Avinash Kumar
Published: June 2014

Alcohols (ethanol and methanol) are being widely considered as alternative fuels for automotive applications. At the same time, homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engine has attracted global attention due to its potential of providing high engine efficiency and ultralow exhaust emissions. Environmental legislation is becoming increasingly stringent, sharply focusing on particulate matter (PM) emissions. Recent emission norms consider limiting PM number concentrations in addition to PM mass. Therefore, present study is conducted to experimentally investigate the effects of engine operating parameters on the PM size–number distribution in a HCCI engine fueled with gasoline, ethanol, and methanol. The experiments were conducted on a modified four-cylinder diesel engine, with one cylinder modified to operate in HCCI mode. Port fuel injection was used for preparing homogeneous charge in the HCCI cylinder. Intake air preheating was used to enable auto-ignition of fuel–air mixture. Engine exhaust particle sizer (EEPS) was used for measuring size–number distribution of soot particles emitted by the HCCI engine cylinder under varying engine operating conditions. Experiments were conducted at 1200 and 2400 rpm by varying intake air temperature and air–fuel ratio for gasoline, ethanol, and methanol. In this paper, the effect of engine operating parameters on PM size–number distribution, count mean diameter (CMD), and total PM numbers is investigated. The experimental data show that the PM number emissions from gasoline, ethanol, and methanol in HCCI cannot be neglected and particle numbers increase for relatively richer mixtures and higher intake air temperatures.
Preexercise Carbohydrate Feeding and High-Intensity Exercise Capacity: Effects of Timing of Intake and Carbohydrate Concentration
Authors: Galloway Stuart D.R. , Lott Matthew J.E. , Toulouse Lindsay C.
Published: June 2014

The present study aimed to investigate the influence of timing of preexercise carbohydrate feeding (Part A) and carbohydrate concentration (Part B) on short-duration high-intensity exercise capacity. In Part A, 17 males, and in Part B 10 males, performed a peak power output (PPO) test, two familiarization trials at 90% of PPO, and 4 (for Part A) or 3 (for Part B) experimental trials involving exercise capacity tests at 90% PPO. In Part A, the 4 trials were conducted following ingestion of a 6.4% carbohydrate/electrolyte sports drink ingested 30 (C30) or 120 (C120) minutes before exercise, or a flavor-matched placebo administered either 30 (P30) or 120 (P120) minutes before exercise. In Part B, the 3 trials were performed 30 min after ingestion of 0%, 2% or 12% carbohydrate solutions. All trials were performed in a double-blind cross-over design following and overnight fast. Dietary intake and activity in the 2 days before trials was recorded and replicated on each visit. Glucose, lactate, heart rate, and mood/arousal were recorded at intervals during the trials. In Part A, C30 produced the greatest exercise capacity (mean ± SD; 9.0 ± 1.9 min, p < .01) compared with all other trials (7.7 ± 1.5 min P30, 8.0 ± 1.7 min P120, 7.9 ± 1.9 min C120). In Part B, exercise capacity (min) following ingestion of the 2% solution (9.2 ± 2.1) compared with 0% (8.2 ± 0.7) and 12% (8.0 ± 1.3) solutions approached significance (p = .09). This study provides new evidence to suggest that timing of carbohydrate intake is important in short duration high-intensity exercise tasks, but a concentration effect requires further exploration.
The Effect of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Older Adults During Resistance Training
Authors: Duff Whitney R.D. , Chilibeck Philip D. , Rooke Julianne J. , Kaviani Mojtaba , Krentz Joel R. , Haines Deborah M.
Published: June 2014

Bovine colostrum is the first milk secreted by cows after parturition and has high levels of protein, immunoglobulins, and various growth factors. We determined the effects of 8 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation versus whey protein during resistance training in older adults. Males (N = 15, 59.1 ± 5.4 y) and females (N = 25, 59.0 ± 6.7 y) randomly received (double-blind) 60g/d of colostrum or whey protein complex (containing 38g protein) while participating in a resistance training program (12 exercises, 3 sets of 8–12 reps, 3 days/week). Strength (bench press and leg press 1-RM), body composition (by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry), muscle thickness of the biceps and quadriceps (by ultrasound), cognitive function (by questionnaire), plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and C-reactive protein (CRP, as a marker of inflammation), and urinary N-telopeptides (Ntx, a marker of bone resorption) were determined before and after the intervention. Participants on colostrum increased leg press strength (24 ± 29 kg; p < .01) to a greater extent than participants on whey protein (8 ± 16 kg) and had a greater reduction in Ntx compared with participants on whey protein (–15 ± 40% vs. 10 ± 42%; p < .05). Bench press strength, muscle thickness, lean tissue mass, bone mineral content, and cognitive scores increased over time (p < .05) with no difference between groups. There were no changes in IGF-1 or CRP. Colostrum supplementation during resistance training was beneficial for increasing leg press strength and reducing bone resorption in older adults. Both colostrum and whey protein groups improved upper body strength, muscle thickness, lean tissue mass, and cognitive function.
Predicting Cycling Performance in Trained to Elite Male and Female Cyclists
Authors: Lamberts Robert P.
Published: June 2014

In high-performance cycling, it is important to maintain a healthy balance between training load and recovery. Recently a new submaximal cycle test, known as the Lamberts and Lambert Submaximal Cycle Test (LSCT), has been shown to be able to accurately predict cycling performance in 15 well-trained cyclists. The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of the LSCT in 102 trained to elite cyclists (82 men and 20 women). All cyclists performed an LSCT test followed by a peak-power-output (PPO) test, which included respiratory-gas analysis for the determination of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). They then performed the LSCT test followed by a 40-km time trial (TT) 72 h later. Average power output during the 3 stages of the LSCT increased from 31%, 60%, and 79% of PPO, while the ratings of perceived exertion increased from 8 to 13 to 16. Very good relationships were found between actual and LSCT-predicted PPO (r = .98, 95%CI: .97–.98, P < .0001), VO2max (r = .96, 95%CI: .97–.99, P < .0001) and 40-km-TT time (r = .98, 95%CI: .94–.97, P < .0001). No gender differences were found when predicting cycling performance from the LSCT (P = .95). The findings of this study show that the LSCT is able to accurately predict cycling performance in trained to elite male and female cyclists and potentially can be used to prescribe and fine-tune training prescription in cycling.
Impairment of 40-km Time-Trial Performance but Not Peak Power Output With External Iliac Kinking: A Case Study in a World-Class Cyclist
Authors: Lamberts Robert P. , Mann Theresa N.C. , Rietjens Gerard J. , Tijdink Hendrik H.
Published: June 2014

Iliac blood-flow restrictions causing painful and “powerless” legs are often attributed to overtraining and may develop for some time before being correctly diagnosed. In the current study, differences between actual performance parameters and performance parameters predicted from the Lamberts and Lambert Submaximal Cycle Test (LSCT) were studied in a world-class cyclist with bilateral kinking of the external iliac artery before and after surgery. Two performance-testing sessions, including a peak-poweroutput (PPO) test and a 40-km time trial (TT) were conducted before surgery, while 1 testing session was conducted after the surgery. Actual vs LSCT-predicted performance parameters in the world-class cyclists were compared with 82 symptom-free trained to elite male cyclists. No differences were found between actual and LSCT-predicted PPO before and after surgical intervention. However, there were differences between actual and LSCT-predicted 40-km TT time in the tests performed before the surgery (2:51and 2:55 min:s, respectively). These differences were no longer apparent in the postsurgery 40-km TT (2 s). This finding suggests that iliac blood-flow restrictions seem to mainly impair endurance performance rather than peak cycling performance. A standard PPO test without brachial ankle blood-pressure measurements might not be able to reflect iliac bloodflow restrictions. Differences between actual and LSCT-predicted 40-km TT time may assist in earlier referral to a cardiovascular specialist and result in earlier detection of iliac blood-flow restrictions.
Scale Model on Performance Prediction in Recreational and Elite Endurance Runners
Authors: Tartaruga Marcus P. , Mota Carlos B. , Peyré-Tartaruga Leonardo A. , Brisswalter Jeanick
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

To identify the effect of allometric scaling on the relationship between running efficiency (REff) and middle-distancerunning performance according to performance level.

Methods:

Thirteen male recreational middle-distance runners (mean ± SD age 33.3 ± 8.4 y, body mass 76.4 ± 8.6 kg, maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max] 52.8 ± 4.6 mL · kg−1 · min−1; G1) and 13 male high-level middle-distance runners (age 25.5 ± 4.2 y, body mass 62.8 ± 2.7 kg, VO2max 70.4 ± 1.9 mL · kg−1 · min−1; G2) performed a continuous incremental test to volitional exhaustion to determine VO2max and a 6-min submaximal running test at 70% of VO2max to assess REff.

Results:

Significant correlation between REff and performance were found for both groups; however, the strongest correlations were observed in recreational runners, especially when using the allometric exponent (respectively for G1, nonallometric vs allometric scaling: r = .80 vs r = .86; and for G2, nonallometric vs allometric scaling: r = .55 vs r = .50).

Conclusion:

These results indicate that an allometric normalization may improve endurance-performance prediction from REff values in recreational, but not in elite, runners.
Monitoring the Effect of Race-Analysis Parameters on Performance in Elite Swimmers
Authors: Tor Elaine , Pease David L. , Ball Kevin A. , Hopkins Will G.
Published: June 2014

Time trials are commonly used in the lead-up to competition. A method that evaluates the relationship between time trial and competition performance in swimming would be useful for developing performance-enhancement strategies.

Purpose:

To use linear mixed modeling to identify key parameters that can be used to relate time-trial and competition performance.

Methods:

Ten swimmers participated in the study. Each swimmer was analyzed during 3 time trials and 1 competition. Race video footage was analyzed to determine several key parameters. Pooling of strokes and distances was achieved by modeling changes in parameters between time trials and competition within each subject as linear predictors of percent change in performance using mixed modeling of log-transformed race times.

Results:

When parameters were evaluated as the effect of 2 SD on performance time, there were very large effects of start time (2.6%, 90% confidence interval 1.8–3.3%) and average velocity (–2.3%, –2.8% to –1.8%). There was also a small effect for stroke rate (–0.6%, –1.3% to 0.2%). Further analysis revealed an improvement in performance time of 2.4% between time trials and competition, of which 1.8% (large; 1.4–2.1%) was due to a change in average velocity and 0.9% (moderate; 0.6–1.1%) was due to a change in start time; changes in remaining parameters had trivial effects on performance.

Conclusion:

This study illustrates effective analytical strategies for identifying key parameters that can be the focus of training to improve performance in small squads of elite swimmers and other athletes.
Concurrent Repeated-Sprint and Resistance Training With Superimposed Vibrations in Rugby Players
Authors: Suarez-Arrones Luis , Tous-Fajardo Julio , Núñez Javier , Gonzalo-Skok Oliver , Gálvez Javier , Mendez-Villanueva Alberto
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

To examine the effect of repeated-sprint training (RST) vs combined RST and resistance training with superimposed vibrations on repeated-sprint ability (RSA) and lower-body power output in male rugby players.

Methods:

Players were divided into 2 training groups. One group performed RST (n = 10) 2 d/wk and the other performed RST 1 d/wk and squat resistance training with superimposed vibrations on the second day (RS+ST; n = 10). The squat training was carried out with a volume similar (ie, number of sets and repetitions) to that of the RST. The training period lasted 6 wk, and it was carried out as a supplement to the regular rugby training sessions.

Results:

Substantial improvements in RSA mean time (RSAmean; +2.3%/ES: 0.77 vs +4.1%/ES: 0.91), RSA percent decrement (%Dec; –25.6%/ES: 1.70 vs –23.2%/ES: 0.99), and squat absolute power output (+5.0%/ES:0.36 vs +17.2%/ES: 0.93) were obtained in RST and RS+ST, respectively. Substantial improvements in RSA best time (RSAbest; +2.6%/ES: 0.61) and squat power output normalized to body mass (+18.6%/ES: 0.76) only occurred in RS+ST. Both pretest and posttest RSAmean were largely correlated with the RSAbest. However, there were only unclear, small to moderate correlations between individual changes in squat power output and either RSAmean or RSAbest.

Conclusion:

Combined RST and resistance training induced improvements of greater magnitude in both repeated-sprint performance and muscle power output than the RST alone. The lack of substantial correlations between individual changes in repeated-sprint and muscle-power performance suggests that the same subjects were not systematically low or high responders to both RST and strength training.
Reliability and Stability of Performances in 400-m Swimming and 1500-m Running
Authors: Mytton Graham J. , Archer David T. , Gibson Alan St Clair , Thompson Kevin G.
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

To assess the reliability and stability of 400-m swimming and 1500-m running competitions to establish the number of samples needed to obtain a stable pacing profile. Coaches, athletes, and researchers can use these methods to ensure that sufficient data are collected before training and race strategies are constructed or research conclusions are drawn.

Method:

Lap times were collected from 5 world and European championship finals between 2005 and 2011, resulting in the capture of data from 40 swimmers and 55 runners. A cumulative mean for each lap was calculated, starting with the most recent data, and the number of races needed for this to stabilize to within 1% was reported. Typical error for each lap was calculated for athletes who had competed in more than 1 final.

Results:

International swimmers demonstrated more reproducible performances than runners in 3 of the 4 laps of the race (P < .01). Variance in runners’ lap times significantly decreased by 1.7–2.7% after lap 1, whereas variance in swimmers’ lap times tended to increase by 0.1–0.5% after lap 1. To establish a stable profile, at least ten 400-m swimmers and forty-four 1500-m runners must be included.

Conclusions:

A stable race profile was observed from the analysis of 5 events for 1500-m running and 3 events for 400-m swimming. Researchers and athletes can be more certain about the pacing information collected from 400-m swimming than 1500-m running races, as the swimming data are less variable, despite both events being of similar duration.
Olympic Preparation of a World-Class Female Triathlete
Authors: Mujika Iñigo
Published: June 2014

Detailed accounts of the training programs followed by today’s elite triathletes are lacking in the sport-science literature. This study reports on the training program of a world-class female triathlete preparing to compete in the London 2012 Olympic Games. Over 50 wk, she performed 796 sessions (303 swim, 194 bike, 254 run, 45 strength training), ie, 16 ± 4 sessions/wk (mean ± SD). Swim, bike, and run training volumes were, respectively, 1230 km (25 ± 8 km/wk), 427 h (9 ± 3 h/wk), and 250 h (5 ± 2 h/wk). Training tasks were categorized and prescribed based on heart-rate values and/or speeds and power outputs associated with different blood lactate concentrations. Training performed at intensities below her individual lactate threshold (ILT), between the ILT and the onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), and above the OBLA for swim were 74% ± 6%, 16% ± 2%, 10% ± 2%; bike 88% ± 3%, 10% ± 1%, 2.1% ± 0.2%; and run 85% ± 2%, 8.0% ± 0.3%, 6.7% ± 0.3%. Training organization was adapted to the busy competition calendar (18 events, of which 8 were Olympic-distance triathlons) and continuously responded to emerging information. Training volumes were 35–80% higher than those previously reported for elite male and female triathletes, but training intensity and tapering strategies successfully followed recommended best practice for endurance athletes. This triathlete placed 7th in London 2012, and her world ranking improved from 14th to 8th at the end of 2012.
Performance of Maximum Number of Repetitions With Cluster-Set Configuration
Authors: Iglesias-Soler Eliseo , Carballeira Eduardo , Sánchez-Otero Tania , Mayo Xian , Fernández-del-Olmo Miguel
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

To analyze performance during the execution of a maximum number of repetitions (MNR) in a cluster-set configuration.

Method:

Nine judokas performed 2 sessions of parallel squats with a load corresponding to 4-repetition maximum (4RM) with a traditional-training (TT) and cluster-training (CT) set configuration. The TT consisted of 3 sets of repetitions leading to failure and 3 min of rest between sets. In the CT the MNR was performed with a rest interval between repetitions (45.44 ± 11.89 s). The work-to-rest ratio was similar for CT and TT.

Results:

MNR in CT was 45.5 ± 32 repetitions and was 9.33 ± 1.87 times the volume in TT. There was a tendency for the average mean propulsive velocity (MPV) to be higher in CT (0.39 ± 0.04 vs 0.36 ± 0.04 m/s for CT and TT, respectively, P = .054, standardized mean difference [d] = 0.57). The average MPV was higher in CT for a similar number of repetitions (0.44 ± 0.08 vs 0.36 ± 0.04 m/s for CT and TT, respectively, P = .006, d = 1.33). The number of repetitions in TT was correlated with absolute 4RM load (r = –.719, P = .031) but not in CT (r = –.273, P = .477).

Conclusions:

A cluster-set configuration allows for a higher number of repetitions and improved sustainability of mechanical performance. CT, unlike TT, was not affected by absolute load, suggesting an improvement of training volume with high absolute loads.
Effects of Physical, Technical, and Tactical Factors on Final Ladder Position in Semiprofessional Rugby League
Authors: Gabbett Tim J.
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

A limitation of most rugby league time–motion studies is that researchers have examined the demands of single teams, with no investigations of all teams in an entire competition. This study investigated the activity profiles and technical and tactical performances of successful and less-successful teams throughout an entire rugby league competition.

Methods:

In total, 185 rugby league players representing 11 teams from a semiprofessional competition participated in this study. Global positioning system analysis was completed across the entire season. Video footage from individual matches was also coded via notational analysis for technical and tactical performance of teams.

Results:

Trivial to small differences were found among Top 4, Middle 4, and Bottom 4 teams for absolute and relative total distances covered and distances covered at low speeds. Small, nonsignificant differences (P = .054, ES = 0.31) were found between groups for the distance covered sprinting, with Top 4 teams covering greater sprinting distances than Bottom 4 teams. Top 4 teams made more meters in attack and conceded fewer meters in defense than Bottom 4 teams. Bottom 4 teams had a greater percentage of slow play-the-balls in defense than Top 4 teams (74.8% ± 7.3% vs 67.2% ± 8.3%). Middle 4 teams showed the greatest reduction in high-speed running from the first to the second half (–20.4%), while Bottom 4 teams completed 14.3% more high-speed running in the second half than in the first half.

Conclusion:

These findings demonstrate that a combination of activity profiles and technical and tactical performance are associated with playing success in semiprofessional rugby league players.
Physiological and Anthropometric Progression in an International Oarsman: A 15-Year Case Study
Authors: Bourgois Jan , Steyaert Adelheid , Boone Jan
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

In this case study, a world-class rower was followed over a period of 15 y in which he evolved from junior to professional athlete.

Methods:

An incremental exercise test and a 2000-m ergometer test were performed each year in the peak period of the season starting at the age of 16 y. In addition, the training logs of 1 y each as a junior and a senior rower were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), maximal power output (Pmax), and power output at 4 mmol/L blood lactate concentration increased until the age of 27 and then stabilized at 30 y at 6.0 ± 0.2 L/min, 536 ± 15 W, and 404 ± 22 W, respectively. At the age of 27–28 y the rower also had a career-best 2000-m ergometer test (5′58″) and on-water performance with a 4th place at the Olympic Games (2008) in Beijing and World Championships (2009). At the age of 23 y, the rower trained a total of 6091 km in 48 wk. Of the total training time, 15.4% consisted of general training practices, 23.4% resistance training, and 61.2% specific rowing training.

Conclusion:

The on-water performance in the World Championships and Olympic Games corresponded closely to the evolution in the rower’s physiological profile and 2000-m ergometer performance. The long-term build-up program resulted in an increase in the physiological parameters up to the age of 27 y and resulted in a 4th position at the 2008 Olympic Games at a body mass of only 86 kg.