bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Environmental exposures and asthma morbidity in children living in urban neighborhoods
Authors: Matsui E. C. 
Published: February 2014

AbstractA substantial disparity in asthma prevalence and morbidity among urban children compared with their nonurban counterparts has been recognized for more than two decades. Because of the nature of urban neighborhoods, pest allergens, such as cockroach and mouse, are present in high concentrations in US urban housing and have both repeatedly been linked to asthma morbidity in sensitized children. In addition, there is a growing body of evidence demonstrating that concentrations of many pollutants are higher indoors than outdoors in both US and European urban communities and that exposures to indoor pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are independently associated with symptoms in children with asthma. Although environmental interventions are challenging to implement, when they reduce relevant indoor allergen and pollutant exposures, they are associated with clear improvements in asthma. Other modifiable risk factors in urban childhood asthma that have emerged include dietary and nutritional factors. Overweight and obese children, for example, may be more susceptible to the pulmonary effects of pollutant exposure. Insufficiency of vitamin D and folate has also emerged as modifiable risk factors for asthma morbidity in children. The identification of these modifiable risk factors for urban childhood asthma morbidity offers a ripe opportunity for intervention.
The prevalence and predictive value of weak language skills in children with very low birth weight – a longitudinal study
Authors: Stolt Suvi , Matomäki Jaakko , Lind Annika , Lapinleimu Helena , Haataja Leena , Lehtonen Liisa 
Published: February 2014

AbstractAimPrevious findings regarding the prevalence and predictive value of weak language skills in preterm children with very low birth weight (VLBW) are unclear. This study analysed the prevalence of weak language skills, the predictive value of early weak language skills on later weak language skills, and the sensitivity and specificity of cognitive scores for identifying concurrent weak language skills in a longitudinal sample of VLBW children (n = 141) and their full‐term controls (n = 146).MethodsData on language skills and cognitive development were gathered at two and five years of age. Weak language skills were defined by the 10th percentile value of the controls.ResultsIn VLBW children, the prevalence of weak language skills varied between 16% and 18% at 2 years of age (controls: 8 to 10%) and between 20% and 27% at 5 years of age (controls: 10%). Early weak language skills predicted later weak language skills in VLBW children. Cognitive scores were specific, but their sensitivity for identifying concurrent weak language skills was low.ConclusionThe prevalence of weak language skills in VLBW children increased during the follow‐up period and was higher than the controls. Language‐sensitive methods should be used in the clinical follow‐up of VLBW children.
A Closer Look at the Output Hypothesis: The Effect of Pushed Output on Noticing and Inductive Learning of the Spanish Future Tense
Authors: Russell Victoria 
Published: February 2014

AbstractThis study empirically tested the noticing function of the output hypothesis (Swain, 1993, 1995, 1998) and explored the relationship between noticing and learning by comparing the effects of the production of output to exposure to textually enhanced input. The present study is a conceptual replication of Izumi (2002); however, Izumi examined a complex grammatical form (relativization in English) while the present study investigated a more salient form (the Spanish future tense) among 55 first‐semester students of Spanish. The results supported the noticing function of the output hypothesis and revealed that pushed output followed by exposure to future tense forms in subsequent input enabled students to learn the targeted form inductively. However, exposure to textual enhancement did not produce similar learning gains. These findings have implications for the instruction of second language grammar.
Apelin and Relaxin Plasma Levels in Young Healthy Offspring of Patients With Essential Hypertension
Authors: Papadopoulos Dimitris P. , Makris Thomas , Perrea Despina , Zerva Kannelina , Tsioufis Costas , Faselis Charles , Papademetriou Vasilios 
Published: February 2014

Epidemiologic studies have shown that healthy offspring of hypertensive patients exhibit many features of the metabolic syndrome, such as hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and lipid disorders, while hypoapelinemia and hyporelaxinemia may contribute to vascular damage that accelerates atherogenesis. The aim of this study was to determine apelin and relaxin plasma levels in the healthy offspring of hypertensive patients and to compare the findings with those of healthy offspring of healthy parents, matched for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). Forty‐six (24 men and 22 women) healthy offspring of hypertensive patients, mean age 18±3 years and BMI 22.4±1.4 kg/m2 (group A), and 50 healthy offspring of healthy parents (28 men and 22 women), mean age 18±3.2 years and BMI 22.6±1.7 kg/m2 (group B), were studied. The apelin and relaxin plasma levels (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method) were determined in the study population. The two groups were matched for age, sex, and BMI. Plasma apelin levels (6±3 vs 105 pg/mL, P<.001) and relaxin plasma levels (20±7 vs 29±8 pg/mL, P<.001) were significantly lower in group A compared with group B, respectively. Our findings suggest that healthy offspring of healthy parents have significantly lower plasma apelin and relaxin levels. This group of individuals needs closer follow‐up and further examination.
Markers of endothelial dysfunction in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and coronary artery disease
Authors: Elsheikh Elzafir , Younoszai Zahra , Otgonsuren Munkhzul , Hunt Sharon , Raybuck Bryan , Younossi Zobair M 
Published: February 2014

AbstractBackgroundNon‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and cardiac‐related mortality.AimTo assess the association between endothelial dysfunction markers (Endocan, high mobility group box 1 [HMGB1], and anti‐endothelial cell antibodies [AECAs]) and the risk of CAD in NAFLD.MethodsNinety‐one patients scheduled for coronary angiography for chest pain were included. Of these, 77 had NAFLD (85% with documented CAD). NAFLD was diagnosed after exclusion of other causes of liver diseases and by hepatic ultrasound and/or fatty liver index. Diagnosis and severity of CAD were established with coronary angiography. Endocan (ng/mL) and HMGB1 (ng/mL) concentrations were determined in the serum using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique. AECAs were quantified in sera using flow cytometry.ResultsNAFLD patients with CAD had higher serum endocan level as compared with NAFLD without CAD (P = 0.006). Furthermore, levels of endocan (odds ratio [OR] 38.66 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.10–999.99]) and hyperlipidemia (OR 5.62 [95% CI 1.36–23.19]) were significantly associated with the risk of CAD and high serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level (OR 0.92 [95% CI 0.87–0.97]) was protective against CAD. On the other hand, serum level of HMGB1 was significantly lower in NAFLD patients with CAD than NAFLD patients without CAD (P = 0.0003). Interestingly, in our NAFLD cohort, serum endocan levels positively correlated the severity of CAD (r = 0.27; P < 0.05), whereas HMGB1 levels negatively correlated with severity of CAD (r = −0.35; P < 0.05). The levels of AECA were not significantly associated with CAD in NAFLD.ConclusionMarkers of endothelial dysfunction in patients NAFLD patients may be associated with the risk for CAD.
Unique and conserved features of floral evocation in legumes
Authors: Liew Lim Chee , Singh Mohan B. , Bhalla Prem L. 
Published: February 2014

AbstractLegumes, with their unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, play a vital role in ensuring future food security and mitigating the effects of climate change because they use less fossil energy and produce less greenhouse gases compared with N‐fertilized systems. Grain legumes are second only to cereal crops as a source of human and animal food, and they contribute approximately one third of the protein consumed by the human population. The productivity of seed crops, such as grain legumes, is dependent on flowering. Despite the genetic variation and importance of flowering in legume production, studies of the molecular pathways that control flowering in legumes are limited. Recent advances in genomics have revealed that legume flowering pathways are divergent from those of such model species as Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we discuss the current understanding of flowering time regulation in legumes and highlight the unique and conserved features of floral evocation in legumes.
Gender and the Transmission of Risk: A Prospective Study of Adolescent Girls Exposed to Maternal Versus Paternal Interparental Violence
Authors: Moretti Marlene M. , Bartolo Tania , Craig Stephanie , Slaney Kate , Odgers Candice 
Published: February 2014

Violence perpetrated by young women typically occurs in close relationships. This study assessed the impact of exposure to interparental violence (IPV) on girls' perpetration of violence within romantic relationships and examined whether this relationship was mediated through sensitivity to interpersonal rejection (RS). Exposure to maternal IPV predicted girls' romantic partner aggression in adolescence and 5 years later in young adulthood. Additionally, girls high on RS were at increased risk of aggression in romantic relationships in adolescence and young adulthood. RS mediated the relationship between IPV and levels of romantic partner aggression in adolescence, but not into young adulthood. These effects remained stable even when paternal IPV and other forms of parental abuse were controlled.
Training-Intensity Distribution During an Ironman Season: Relationship With Competition Performance
Authors: Muñoz Iker , Cejuela Roberto , Seiler Stephen , Larumbe Eneko , Esteve-Lanao Jonathan 
Published: February 2014

Purpose:To describe training loads during an Ironman training program based on intensity zones and observe training–performance relationships.Methods:Nine triathletes completed a program with the same periodization model aiming at participation in the same Ironman event. Before and during the study, subjects performed ramp-protocol tests, running, and cycling to determine aerobic (AeT) and anaerobic thresholds (AnT) through gas-exchange analysis. For swimming, subjects performed a graded lactate test to determine AeT and AnT. Training was subsequently controlled by heart rate (HR) during each training session over 18 wk. Training and the competition were both quantified based on the cumulative time spent in 3 intensity zones: zone 1 (low intensity; <AeT), zone 2 (moderate intensity; between AeT and AnT), and zone 3 (high intensity; >AnT).Results:Most of training time was spent in zone 1 (68% ± 14%), whereas the Ironman competition was primarily performed in zone 2 (59% ± 22%). Significant inverse correlations were found between both total training time and training time in zone 1 vs performance time in competition (r = –.69 and –.92, respectively). In contrast, there was a moderate positive correlation between total training time in zone 2 and performance time in competition (r = .53) and a strong positive correlation between percentage of total training time in zone 2 and performance time in competition (r = .94).Conclusions:While athletes perform with HR mainly in zone 2, better performances are associated with more training time spent in zone 1. A high amount of cycling training in zone 2 may contribute to poorer overall performance.
Standardized Versus Customized High-Intensity Training: Effects on Cycling Performance
Authors: Capostagno Benoit , Lambert Michael I. , Lamberts Robert P. 
Published: February 2014

Purpose:To determine whether a submaximal cycling test could be used to monitor and prescribe high-intensity interval training (HIT).Methods:Two groups of male cyclists completed 4 HIT sessions over a 2-wk period. The structured-training group (SG; n = 8, VO2max = 58.4 ± 4.2 mL · min−1 · kg−1) followed a predetermined training program while the flexible-training group (FG; n = 7, VO2max = 53.9 ± 5.0 mL · min−1 · kg−1) had the timing of their HIT sessions prescribed based on the data of the Lamberts and Lambert Submaximal Cycle Test (LSCT).Results:Effect-size calculations showed large differences in the improvements in 40-km time-trial performance after the HIT training between SG (8 ± 45 s) and FG (48 ± 42 s). Heart-rate recovery, monitored during the study, tended to increase in FG and remain unchanged in SG.Conclusions:The results of the current study suggest that the LSCT may be a useful tool for coaches to monitor and prescribe HIT.
Tactical Considerations in the Middle-Distance Running Events at the 2012 Olympic Games: A Case Study
Authors: Renfree Andrew , Mytton Graham J. , Skorski Sabrina , Gibson Alan St Clair 
Published: February 2014

Purpose:To identify tactical factors associated with progression from preliminary rounds in middle-distance running events at an international championship.Methods:Results from the 2012 Olympic Games were used to access final and intermediate positions, finishing times, and season-best (SB) times for competitors in men’s and women’s 800-m and 1500-m events (fifteen 800-m races and ten 1500-m races). Finishing times were calculated as %SB, and Pearson product–moment correlations were used to assess relationships between intermediate and finishing positions. Probability (P) of qualification to the next round was calculated for athletes in each available intermediate position.Results:There were no significant differences in finishing times relative to SB between qualifiers and nonqualifiers. In the 800-m, correlation coefficients between intermediate and final positions were r = .61 and r = .84 at 400 m and 600 m, respectively, whereas in the 1500-m, correlations were r = .35, r = .43, r = .55, and r = .71 at 400 m, 800 m, 1000 m, and 1200 m, respectively. In both events, probability of qualification decreased with position at all intermediate distances. At all points, those already in qualifying positions were more likely to qualify for the next round.Conclusions:The data demonstrate that tactical positioning at intermediate points in qualifying rounds of middle-distance races is a strong determinant of qualification. In 800-m races it is important to be in a qualifying position by 400 m. In the 1500-m event, although more changes in position are apparent, position at intermediate distances is still strongly related to successful qualification.
Reliability of Physiological Attributes and Their Association With Stochastic Cycling Performance
Authors: Levin Gregory T. , Laursen Paul B. , Abbiss Chris R. 
Published: February 2014

Purpose:To assess the reliability of a 5-min-stage graded exercise test (GXT) and determine the association between physiological attributes and performance over stochastic cycling trials of varying distance.Methods:Twenty-eight well-trained male cyclists performed 2 GXTs and either a 30-km (n = 17) or a 100-km stochastic cycling time trial (n = 9). Stochastic cycling trials included periods of high-intensity efforts for durations of 250 m, 1 km, or 4 km depending on the test being performing.Results:Maximal physiological attributes were found to be extremely reliable (maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max]: coefficient of variation [CV] 3.0%, intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] .911; peak power output [PPO]: CV 3.0%, ICC .913), but a greater variability was found in ventilatory thresholds and economy. All physiological variables measured during the GXT, except economy at 200 W, were correlated with 30-km cycling performance. Power output during the 250-m and 1-km efforts of the 30-km trial were correlated with VO2max, PPO, and the power output at the second ventilatory threshold (r = .58–.82). PPO was the only physiological attributed measured during the GXT to be correlated with performance during the 100-km cycling trial (r = .64).Conclusions:Many physiological variables from a reliable GXT were associated with performance over shorter (30-km) but not longer (100-km) stochastic cycling trials.
Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus fabifermentans Strain T30PCM01, Isolated from Fermenting Grape Marc
Authors: Treu Laura , Vendramin Veronica , Bovo Barbara , Giacomini Alessio , Corich Viviana , Campanaro Stefano 
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT

Here, we report the draft genome assembly of
Lactobacillus fabifermentans
strain T30PCM01 isolated from grape marc. Its genome is the largest (3.58 Mbp) among
Lactobacillus
species and reveals an enormous potential for carbohydrate utilization and transcriptional regulation.
Genome Sequence of the Probiotic Strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus (Formerly Lactobacillus casei) LOCK908
Authors: Koryszewska-Bagińska Anna , Bardowski Jacek , Aleksandrzak-Piekarczyk Tamara 
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT

Lactobacillus rhamnosus
LOCK908, a patented probiotic strain (Polish patent no. 209987), was isolated from the feces of a healthy 6-year-old girl. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of LOCK908 and identify genes likely to be involved in the biosynthesis of exopolysaccharides (EPSs).
Targeted depletion of an MDSC subset unmasks pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma to adaptive immunity
Authors: Stromnes Ingunn M , Brockenbrough J Scott , Izeradjene Kamel , Carlson Markus A , Cuevas Carlos , Simmons Randi M , Greenberg Philip D , Hingorani Sunil R 
Published: February 2014

BackgroundPancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is characterised by a robust desmoplasia, including the notable accumulation of immunosuppressive cells that shield neoplastic cells from immune detection. Immune evasion may be further enhanced if the malignant cells fail to express high levels of antigens that are sufficiently immunogenic to engender an effector T cell response.ObjectiveTo investigate the predominant subsets of immunosuppressive cancer-conditioned myeloid cells that chronicle and shape the progression of pancreas cancer. We show that selective depletion of one subset of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) in an autochthonous, genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM) of PDA unmasks the ability of the adaptive immune response to engage and target tumour epithelial cells.MethodsA combination of in vivo and in vitro studies were performed employing a GEMM that faithfully recapitulates the cardinal features of human PDA. The predominant cancer-conditioned myeloid cell subpopulation was specifically targeted in vivo and the biological outcomes determined.ResultsPDA orchestrates the induction of distinct subsets of cancer-associated myeloid cells through the production of factors known to influence myelopoiesis. These immature myeloid cells inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis of activated T cells. Targeted depletion of granulocytic MDSC (Gr-MDSC) in autochthonous PDA increases the intratumoral accumulation of activated CD8 T cells and apoptosis of tumour epithelial cells and also remodels the tumour stroma.ConclusionsNeoplastic ductal cells of the pancreas induce distinct myeloid cell subsets that promote tumour cell survival and accumulation. Targeted depletion of a single myeloid subset, the Gr-MDSC, can unmask an endogenous T cell response, disclosing an unexpected latent immunity and invoking targeting of Gr-MDSC as a potential strategy to exploit for treating this highly lethal disease.
Human Cytomegalovirus–Platelet Interaction Triggers Toll-Like Receptor 2–Dependent Proinflammatory and Proangiogenic Responses
Authors: Assinger Alice , Kral Julia B. , Yaiw Koon C. , Schrottmaier Waltraud C. , Kurzejamska Ewa , Wang Yajuan , Mohammad Abdul-Aleem , Religa Piotr , Rahbar Afsar , Schabbauer Gernot , Butler Lynn M. , Söderberg-Naucler Cecilia 
Published: February 2014

Objective—
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread pathogen that correlates with various clinical complications, including atherosclerosis. HCMV is released into the circulation during primary infection and periodic viral reactivation, allowing virus–platelet interactions. Platelets are important in the onset and development of atherosclerosis, but the consequences of platelet–HCMV interactions are unclear.

Approach and Results—
We studied the effects of HCMV–platelet interactions in blood from healthy donors using the purified clinical HCMV isolate VR1814. We demonstrated that HCMV bound to a Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2–positive platelet subpopulation, which resulted in signal transduction, degranulation, and release of proinflammatory CD40L and interleukin-1β and proangiogenic vascular endothelial–derived growth factor. In mice, murine CMV activated wild-type but not TLR2-deficient platelets. However, supernatant from murine CMV–stimulated wild-type platelets also activated TLR2-deficient platelets, indicating that activated platelets generated soluble mediators that triggered further platelet activation, independent of TLR2 expression. Inhibitor studies, using ADP receptor antagonists and apyrase, revealed that ADP release is important to trigger secondary platelet activation in response to HCMV. HCMV-activated platelets rapidly bound to and activated neutrophils, supporting their adhesion and transmigration through endothelial monolayers. In an in vivo model, murine CMV induced systemic upregulation of platelet–leukocyte aggregates and plasma vascular endothelial–derived growth factor in mice and showed a tendency to enhance neutrophil extravasation in a TLR2-dependent fashion.

Conclusions—
HCMV is a well-adapted pathogen that does not induce immediate thrombotic events. However, HCMV–platelet interactions lead to proinflammatory and proangiogenic responses, which exacerbate tissue damage and contribute to atherogenesis. Therefore, platelets might contribute to the effects of HCMV in accelerating atherosclerosis.
Internet-based training to improve preschool playground safety: Evaluation of the Stamp-in-Safety Programme
Authors: Schwebel David C , Pennefather Jordan , Marquez Brion , Marquez Jessie 
Published: February 2014

Objective: Playground injuries result in over 200,000 US paediatric emergency department visits annually. One strategy to reduce injuries is improved adult supervision. The Stamp-in-Safety programme, which involves supervisors stamping rewards for children playing safely, has been demonstrated in preliminary classroom-based work to reduce child risk-taking and increase the quality of adult supervision. This study evaluated the efficacy of delivering Stamp-in-Safety to playground supervisors via the Internet. Design: Pre-post design following a pragmatic trials approach. Setting: Twenty-four preschools in the USA. Method: Guidance for implementing the Stamp-in-Safety programme was delivered to preschool supervisors via the Internet. Supervisors and preschool directors completed online surveys concerning self-efficacy to keep children safe, playground supervision behaviour, perceptions about playground safety, and knowledge about playground supervision/Stamp-in-Safety both prior to and after the intervention was implemented. They completed a usability survey after using the online intervention. Results: Ratings of usability and satisfaction with the programme were high, indicating feasibility. Paired-samples t-tests showed some improvement in supervisors’ self-efficacy, and improvement in most aspects of supervisory behaviours, perception of playground safety, and knowledge about playground supervision/Stamp-in-Safety. Conclusion: Results suggest the Stamp-in-Safety programme can be delivered successfully via Internet. A public health challenge is translating effective interventions to broad dissemination. Internet delivery of Stamp-in-Safety holds the promise to overcome this challenge and improve playground supervision practices.