bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of different dietary tryptophan : lysine ratios and sanitary conditions on growth performance, plasma urea nitrogen, serum haptoglobin and ileal histomorphology of weaned pigs
Authors: Jayaraman Balachandar , Htoo John K. , Nyachoti Charles M. 
Published: September 2016

AbstractA total of 180 mixed‐sex pigs (Duroc × (Yorkshire × Landrace); average initial body weight of 7.36 ± 0.2 kg) weaned at 21 ± 1 days were fed corn‐soybean meal‐wheat‐based diets to determine the optimal standardized ileal digestible (SID) tryptophan to lysine ratio (Trp : Lys) in a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement (two sanitary conditions: clean (CL) and unclean (UCL), and five dietary treatments (SID Trp : Lys (16, 18, 20, 22 and 24%)). In each sanitary condition, blood was collected on days 0 and 14 to determine plasma urea nitrogen and on day 14, ileal tissue (one pig per pen) was collected for the measurement of gut morphology. Pigs kept under UCL conditions had lower growth rate (P < 0.05) than under CL conditions. Under CL conditions, the estimated optimal SID Trp : Lys for average daily gain (ADG) was 19.7% whereas under UCL conditions these values were 20.5% and 19.0% for ADG and gain‐to‐feed ratio, respectively. Under CL conditions, increasing SID Trp : Lys reduced (linear, P = 0.05) plasma urea nitrogen concentration but had no effect (P > 0.10) on villous height (VH), crypt depth ( CD) and VH : CD. In conclusion, an SID Trp : Lys to optimize ADG for pigs raised under UCL conditions was higher (4%) than CL conditions.
The variability in beta‐cell function in placebo‐treated subjects with type 2 diabetes: application of the weight‐HbA1c‐insulin‐glucose (WHIG) model
Authors: Duong Janna K. , de Winter Willem , Choy Steve , Plock Nele , Naik Himanshu , Krauwinkel Walter , Visser Sandra A.G. , Verhamme Katia M. , Sturkenboom Miriam C. , Stricker B.H. , Danhof Meindert 
Published: September 2016

AimThe weight‐glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C)‐insulin‐glucose (WHIG) model describes the effects of changes in weight on insulin sensitivity (IS) in newly diagnosed, obese subjects receiving placebo treatment. This model was applied to a wider population of placebo‐treated subjects, to investigate factors influencing the variability in IS and β‐cell function.MethodsThe WHIG model was applied to the WHIG dataset (Study 1) and two other placebo datasets (Studies 2 and 3). Studies 2 and 3 consisted of nonobese subjects and subjects with advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Body weight, fasting serum insulin (FSI), fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c were used for nonlinear mixed‐effects modelling (using NONMEM v7.2 software). Sources of interstudy variability (ISV) and potential covariates (age, gender, diabetes duration, ethnicity, compliance) were investigated.ResultsAn ISV for baseline parameters (body weight and β‐cell function) was required. The baseline β‐cell function was significantly lower in subjects with advanced T2DM (median difference: Study 2: 15.6%, P < 0.001; Study 3: 22.7%, P < 0.001) than in subjects with newly diagnosed T2DM (Study 1). A reduction in the estimated insulin secretory response in subjects with advanced T2DM was observed but diabetes duration was not a significant covariate.ConclusionThe WHIG model can be used to describe the changes in weight, IS and β‐cell function in the diabetic population. IS remained relatively stable between subjects but a large ISV in β‐cell function was observed. There was a trend towards decreasing β‐cell responsiveness with diabetes duration, and further studies, incorporating subjects with a longer history of diabetes, are required.
Outcomes of annual surveillance imaging in an adult and paediatric cohort of succinate dehydrogenase B mutation carriers
Authors: Tufton Nicola , Shapiro Lucy , Srirangalingam Umasuthan , Richards Polly , Sahdev Anju , Kumar Ajith V. , McAndrew Lorraine , Martin Lee , Berney Daniel , Monson John , Chew Shern L. , Waterhouse Mona , Druce Maralyn , Korbonits Márta , Metcalfe Karl , Drake William M. , Storr Helen L. , Akker Scott A. 
Published: September 2016

SummaryObjectiveFor ‘asymptomatic carriers’ of the succinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB) gene mutations, there is currently no consensus as to the appropriate modality or frequency of surveillance imaging. We present the results of a surveillance programme of SDHB mutation carriers.DesignReview of clinical outcomes of a surveillance regimen in patients identified to have an SDHB gene mutation, based on annual MRI, in a single UK tertiary referral centre.PatientsA total of 92 patients were identified with an SDHB gene mutation. a total of 27 index patients presented with symptoms, and 65 patients were identified as asymptomatic carriers.MeasurementsAnnual MRI of the abdomen, with alternate year MRI of the neck, thorax and pelvis. Presence of an SDHB‐related tumour included paraganglioma (PGL), phaeochromocytoma (PCC), renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST).ResultsA total of 43 PGLs, eight PCCs and one RCC occurred in the 27 index patients (23 solitary, four synchronous, five metachronous). A further 15 SDHB‐related tumours (11 PGLs, three RCCs, one GIST) were identified in the asymptomatic carriers on surveillance screening (25% of screened carriers): 10 on the first surveillance imaging and five on subsequent imaging 2–6 years later. A total of 11 patients had malignant disease.ConclusionsSDHB‐related tumours are picked up as early as 2 years after initial negative surveillance scan. We believe the high malignancy rate and early identification rate of tumours justifies the use of 1–2 yearly imaging protocols and MRI‐based imaging could form the mainstay of surveillance in this patient group thereby minimizing radiation exposure.
Golden Eagle fatalities and the continental‐scale consequences of local wind‐energy generation
Authors: Katzner Todd E. , Nelson David M. , Braham Melissa A. , Doyle Jacqueline M. , Fernandez Nadia B. , Duerr Adam E. , Bloom Peter H. , Fitzpatrick Matthew C. , Miller Tricia A. , Culver Renee C. E. , Braswell Loan , DeWoody J. Andrew 
Published: September 2016

AbstractRenewable energy production is expanding rapidly despite mostly unknown environmental effects on wildlife and habitats. We used genetic and stable isotope data collected from Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) killed at the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area (APWRA) in California in demographic models to test hypotheses about the geographic extent and demographic consequences of fatalities caused by renewable energy facilities. Geospatial analyses of δ2H values obtained from feathers showed that ≥25% of these APWRA‐killed eagles were recent immigrants to the population, most from long distances away (>100 km). Data from nuclear genes indicated this subset of immigrant eagles was genetically similar to birds identified as locals from the δ2H data. Demographic models implied that in the face of this mortality, the apparent stability of the local Golden Eagle population was maintained by continental‐scale immigration. These analyses demonstrate that ecosystem management decisions concerning the effects of local‐scale renewable energy can have continental‐scale consequences.
Relation between extinction and assisted colonization of plants in the arctic‐alpine and boreal regions
Authors: Pykälä Juha 
Published: September 2016

AbstractAssisted colonization of vascular plants is considered by many ecologists an important tool to preserve biodiversity threatened by climate change. I argue that assisted colonization may have negative consequences in arctic‐alpine and boreal regions. The observed slow movement of plants toward the north has been an argument for assisted colonization. However, these range shifts may be slow because for many plants microclimatic warming (ignored by advocates of assisted colonization) has been smaller than macroclimatic warming. Arctic‐alpine and boreal plants may have limited possibilities to disperse farther north or to higher elevations. I suggest that arctic‐alpine species are more likely to be driven to extinction because of competitive exclusion by southern species than by increasing temperatures. If so, the future existence of arctic‐alpine and boreal flora may depend on delaying or preventing the migration of plants toward the north to allow northern species to evolve to survive in a warmer climate. In the arctic‐alpine region, preventing the dispersal of trees and shrubs may be the most important method to mitigate the negative effects of climate change. The purported conservation benefits of assisted colonization should not be used to promote the migration of invasive species by forestry.
Smart Protected Area Placement Decelerates Biodiversity Loss: A Representation‐extinction Feedback Leads Rare Species to Extinction
Authors: Akasaka Munemitsu , Kadoya Taku , Ishihama Fumiko , Fujita Taku , Fuller Richard A. 
Published: September 2016

AbstractProtected areas (PAs) spearhead global conservation efforts, but it has been repeatedly demonstrated that narrowly distributed species are more likely to be unrepresented in PAs. This means that where local extinctions are more likely outside PAs, a positive feedback loop could render PAs largely ineffective in decelerating extinctions, even where PAs effectively abate threats. Here we empirically test the elements of this feedback loop using distribution data for 1,572 threatened plants in Japan. Narrowly distributed species were indeed less likely to overlap PAs than widespread species, and local extinction rates for unprotected populations over 15 years were 1.5 times higher than those inside PAs. A simulation model showed that new PAs will substantially reduce extinction risk for widespread species, but not for narrowly distributed species, unless they are placed very precisely in the landscape. Our results suggest that a representation‐extinction feedback will limit the effectiveness of PAs in preventing extinctions unless PA placement is carefully targeted.
Unexpected Management Choices When Accounting for Uncertainty in Ecosystem Service Tradeoff Analyses
Authors: Cabral Reniel B. , Halpern Benjamin S. , Costello Christopher , Gaines Steven D. 
Published: September 2016

AbstractResource management and conservation increasingly focus on ecosystem service provisioning and potential tradeoffs among services under different management actions. Application of bioeconomic approaches to tradeoffs assessment is touted as a way to find win‐win outcomes or avoid unnecessary stakeholder conflict. Yet, nearly all assessments to date have ignored inherent uncertainties in the provision and valuation of services. We incorporate uncertainty into the ecosystem services analytical framework and show how such inclusion improves optimal decision making. In particular, we show: (1) “suboptimal” solutions can become optimal when uncertainties are accounted for; (2) uncertainty paradoxically makes stakeholders value conservation despite their lack of preference for it; and (3) substantial losses or missed gains in ecosystem service provisioning can be incurred when uncertainty is ignored. Our results highlight the urgency of accounting for uncertainties in ecosystem services in tradeoff assessments given the widespread use of this approach by government agencies and conservation organizations.
Network Governance for Invasive Species Management
Authors: Lubell Mark , Jasny Lorien , Hastings Alan 
Published: September 2016

AbstractInvasive species management depends not only on biological and economic issues but also on how governance institutions influence cooperation from networks of stakeholders. We use the “contingency” framework for network governance to analyze why eradication of invasive Spartina in San Francisco Bay has been more successful than many other eradication efforts. The core argument is that invasive Spartina features antecedent conditions that favor a centralized network as the best governance approach, as demonstrated by a quantitative survey of Spartina stakeholders. This centralized policy network, with a clearly defined core of actors with the expertise, authority, and resources, produces effective cooperation. The contingency framework has implications for invasive species management more generally, as well as other conservation issues featuring dynamic spatial ecological processes.
A new method for self‐paced peak performance testing on a treadmill
Authors: Hunt Kenneth J. , Anandakumaran Prasanna , Loretz Jonas A. , Saengsuwan Jittima 
Published: September 2016

SummaryPurposeSelf‐paced maximal testing methods may be able to exploit central mediation of function‐limiting fatigue and therefore have potential to generate more valid estimates of peak oxygen uptake. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a new method for self‐paced peak performance testing on treadmills and to compare peak and submaximal performance outcomes with those obtained using a non‐self‐paced (‘computer‐paced’) method employing predetermined speed and slope profiles.MethodsThe proposed self‐paced method is based upon automatic subject positioning using feedback control together with an exercise intensity which is driven by a predetermined, individualized work‐rate ramp.ResultsPeak oxygen uptake was not significantly different for the computer‐paced (CP) versus self‐paced (SP) protocols: 4·38 ± 0·48 versus 4·34 ± 0·46 ml min−1, P = 0·42. Likewise, there were no significant differences in the other peak and submaximal cardiopulmonary parameters, viz. peak heart rate, peak respiratory exchange ratio and the first and second ventilatory thresholds. Ramp duration for CP was longer than for SP: 494·5 ± 71·1 versus 371·3 ± 86·0 s, P = 0·00072. Concomitantly, the peak rate of work done against gravity was higher for CP: 264·8 ± 40·8 versus 203·8 ± 53·4 W, P = 0·0021.ConclusionsThe self‐paced approach was found to be feasible for estimation of the principal performance outcomes: the method was technically implementable, it was acceptable to the subjects and it showed good responsiveness. Further investigation of the self‐paced method, with adjustment of the target ramp‐phase duration or modification of the work‐rate calculation equations, is warranted.
Technical proficiency in cytopathology: assessment through external quality assurance
Authors: Cummings M. C. , Greaves J. , Shukor R. A. , Perkins G. , Ross J. 
Published: September 2016

ObjectiveTo assess both the feasibility and value of conducting an external quality assurance programme concerning technical aspects of cytopathology laboratory practice, and the interest by laboratories in enrolling in such a programme.MethodsSix technical surveys, comprising staining exercises and questionnaires relating to laboratory practice, were distributed over a 4‐year period to the approximately 220 laboratories enrolled in the RCPAQAP Cytopathology slide survey modules. Staining exercises using the Papanicolaou and Romanowsky techniques, the preparation of urine and body fluid specimens and immunocytochemistry on the cell block material were assessed. Accompanying relevant questionnaires were included, and one survey comprised a questionnaire alone concerning the collection of urinary tract and body fluid samples.ResultsProvision of an external cytopathology technical module was feasible for the RCPAQAP and participation rates (maximum of 87% per survey; average 68% for stained slides and 66% for questionnaires) were commendable, particularly considering these were optional undertakings with some exercises not applicable to all laboratories. The great majority of submitted slides were scored as satisfactory, and there was an especially high standard for the immunocytochemical staining exercise with 95% considered satisfactory, including 50.6% with a perfect score. Reasons for suboptimal scores were provided for potential quality improvement for interested laboratories. A wealth of information relating to laboratory practice was provided to the RCPAQAP which was collated and summarised for laboratory use.ConclusionsThe provision of a technical module in cytopathology is both a feasible and valuable undertaking of interest to laboratories which should become standard practice for cytopathology external quality assurance providers.
Clinical outcome of endoscopic covered metal stenting for resolution of benign biliary stricture: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zheng Xiao , Wu Jun , Sun Bo , Wu Ye‐Chen , Bo Zhi‐Yuan , Wan Wei , Gao Dao‐jian , Hu Bing 
Published: September 2016

Background and AimManagement of benign biliary stricture is challenging. Endoscopic therapy has evolved as the first‐line treatment for various benign biliary strictures. However, covered self‐expandable metal stents (CSEMS) have not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of benign biliary stricture. With this goal, we conducted the present systemic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic stenting with CSEMS in the treatment of benign biliary stricture.MethodsSystematic review and meta‐analysis by searching PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase databases.ResultsIn total, 37 studies (1677 patients) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Pooled stricture resolutions were achieved in 83% of cases. Median stent dwelling time was 4.4 months, with median endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography sessions of 2.0. Stricture recurrence at 4‐year follow up was 11% (95% CI, 8–14%). Pooled complication rate was 23% (95% CI, 20–26%).ConclusionsPlacement of CSEMS is effective in the treatment of benign biliary stricture with relatively short stenting duration and low long‐term stricture recurrence rate. However, more prospectively randomized studies are required to confirm the results.
Right Ventricular Outflow Tract (RVOT) Changes in Children with an Atrial Septal Defect: Focus on RVOT Velocity Time Integral, RVOT Diameter, and RVOT Systolic Excursion
Authors: Koestenberger Martin , Ravekes William , Avian Alexander , Grangl Gernot , Burmas Ante , Raith Wolfgang , Cvirn Gerhard , Grillitsch Marlene , Gamillscheg Andreas 
Published: September 2016

ObjectiveAim of the study was to determine the influence of right heart volume overload in children with atrial septal defect (ASD) on right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) variables.MethodsA prospective study was conducted in 115 children (age range: 2 days–18.1 years) with a moderate to large ASD. We determined effects of age, body length (BL), body weight (BW), and body surface area (BSA) on the variables RVOT diameter, RVOT velocity time integral (VTI), and RVOT systolic excursion (SE), and tested the predictive value of published normal values for age, BW, BL, and BSA in our ASD patients.ResultsIn our pediatric ASD patients, the age‐specific RVOT diameter (z‐score: +2.2, 95% CI: 2.0–2.4, P < 0.001) was significantly increased compared to normal values with 54% of our ASD patients having a z‐score >2.0. The age‐specific RVOT VTI z‐score (z‐score: +3.6, 95% CI: 3.2–3.9, P < 0.001) was significantly increased compared to normal values with 81% of our ASD patients having a z‐score >2.0. The age‐specific RVOT SE z‐score was not increased but slightly lower compared to normal values (z‐score: −0.5, 95% CI: −0.7 to −0.3, P < 0.001) with 3% of our ASD patients having a z‐score >2.0 while 12% of the patients had a z‐score <−2.ConclusionIn our study population, we show the RVOT VTI and diameter to be relevant predictors in identifying an enlarged RVOT size and flow in children with moderate to large ASD.
Effective number of breeders from sibship reconstruction: empirical evaluations using hatchery steelhead
Authors: Ackerman Michael W. , Hand Brian K. , Waples Ryan K. , Luikart Gordon , Waples Robin S. , Steele Craig A. , Garner Brittany A. , McCane Jesse , Campbell Matthew R. 
Published: September 2016

AbstractEffective population size (Ne) is among the most important metrics in evolutionary biology. In natural populations, it is often difficult to collect adequate demographic data to calculate Ne directly. Consequently, genetic methods to estimate Ne have been developed. Two Ne estimators based on sibship reconstruction using multilocus genotype data have been developed in recent years: sibship assignment and parentage analysis without parents. In this study, we evaluated the accuracy of sibship reconstruction using a large empirical dataset from five hatchery steelhead populations with known pedigrees and using 95 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. We challenged the software COLONY with 2,599,961 known relationships and demonstrated that reconstruction of full‐sib and unrelated pairs was greater than 95% and 99% accurate, respectively. However, reconstruction of half‐sib pairs was poor (<5% accurate). Despite poor half‐sib reconstruction, both estimators provided accurate estimates of the effective number of breeders (Nb) when sample sizes were near or greater than the true Nb and when assuming a monogamous mating system. We further demonstrated that both methods provide roughly equivalent estimates of Nb. Our results indicate that sibship reconstruction and current SNP panels provide promise for estimating Nb in steelhead populations in the region.
Effect of alcohol consumption on all‐cause and liver‐related mortality among HIV‐infected individuals
Authors: Canan CE , Lau B , McCaul ME , Keruly J , Moore RD , Chander G 
Published: September 2016

ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to examine the association between levels of past and current alcohol consumption and all‐cause and liver‐related mortality among people living with HIV (PLWH).MethodsA prospective cohort study of 1855 PLWH in Baltimore, MD was carried out from 2000 to 2013. We ascertained alcohol use by (1) self‐report (SR) through a computer‐assisted self interview, and (2) medical record abstraction of provider‐documented (PD) alcohol use. SR alcohol consumption was categorized as heavy (men: > 4 drinks/day or > 14 drinks/week; women: > 3 drinks/day or > 7 drinks/week), moderate (any alcohol consumption less than heavy), and none. We calculated the cumulative incidence of liver‐related mortality and fitted adjusted cause‐specific regression models to account for competing risks.ResultsAll‐cause and liver‐related mortality rates (MRs) were 43.0 and 7.2 per 1000 person‐years (PY), respectively. All‐cause mortality was highest among SR nondrinkers with PD recent (< 6 months) heavy drinking (MR = 85.4 deaths/1000 PY) and lowest among SR moderate drinkers with no PD history of heavy drinking (MR = 23.0 deaths/1000 PY). Compared with SR moderate drinkers with no PD history of heavy drinking, SR nondrinkers and moderate drinkers with PD recent heavy drinking had higher liver‐related mortality [hazard ratio (HR) = 7.28 and 3.52, respectively]. However, SR nondrinkers and moderate drinkers with a PD drinking history of > 6 months ago showed similar rates of liver‐related mortality (HR = 1.06 and 2.00, respectively).ConclusionsAny heavy alcohol consumption was associated with all‐cause mortality among HIV‐infected individuals, while only recent heavy consumption was associated with liver‐related mortality. Because mortality risk among nondrinkers varies substantially by drinking history, current consumption alone is insufficient to assess risk.