bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PNPLA3 I148M (rs738409) genetic variant and age at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption are independent risk factors for alcoholic cirrhosis
Authors: Burza Maria Antonella , Molinaro Antonio , Attilia Maria Luisa , Rotondo Claudia , Attilia Fabio , Ceccanti Mauro , Ferri Flaminia , Maldarelli Federica , Maffongelli Angela , De Santis Adriano , Attili Adolfo Francesco , Romeo Stefano , Ginanni Corradini Stefano 
Published: August 2013

AbstractBackground & AimsEnvironmental and genetic factors contribute to alcoholic cirrhosis onset. In particular, age at exposure to liver stressors has been shown to be important in progression to fibrosis in hepatitis C individuals. However, no definite data on the role of age at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption are available. Moreover, patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) I148M (rs738409) variant has been associated with alcoholic cirrhosis, but only in cross‐sectional studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of age at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption and PNPLA3 I148M variant on alcoholic cirrhosis incidence.MethodsA total of 384 at‐risk alcohol drinkers were retrospectively examined. The association among age at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption, PNPLA3 I148M variant and cirrhosis incidence was tested.ResultsA higher incidence of alcoholic cirrhosis was observed in individuals with an older (≥24 years) compared with a younger (<24) age at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption (P‐value < 0.001). Moreover, PNPLA3 148M allele carriers showed an increased incidence of cirrhosis (P‐value < 0.001). Both age at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption and PNPLA3 148M allele were independent risk factors for developing cirrhosis (H.R. (95% C.I.): 2.76 (2.18–3.50), P‐value < 0.001; 1.53(1.07–2.19), P‐value = 0.021 respectively). The 148M allele was associated with a two‐fold increased risk of cirrhosis in individuals with a younger compared with an older age at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption (H.R. (95% C.I.): 3.03(1.53–6.00) vs. 1.61(1.09–2.38).ConclusionsAge at onset of at‐risk alcohol consumption and PNPLA3 I148M genetic variant are independently associated with alcoholic cirrhosis incidence.
Looking into the black box: simulating the role of self‐fertilization and mortality in the genetic structure of Macrocystis pyrifera
Authors: Johansson Mattias L. , Raimondi Peter T. , Reed Daniel C. , Coelho Nelson C. , Serrão Ester A. , Alberto Filipe A. 
Published: August 2013

AbstractPatterns of spatial genetic structure (SGS), typically estimated by genotyping adults, integrate migration over multiple generations and measure the effective gene flow of populations. SGS results can be compared with direct ecological studies of dispersal or mating system to gain additional insights. When mismatches occur, simulations can be used to illuminate the causes of these mismatches. Here, we report a SGS and simulation‐based study of self‐fertilization in Macrocystis pyrifera, the giant kelp. We found that SGS is weaker than expected in M. pyrifera and used computer simulations to identify selfing and early mortality rates for which the individual heterozygosity distribution fits that of the observed data. Only one (of three) population showed both elevated kinship in the smallest distance class and a significant negative slope between kinship and geographical distance. All simulations had poor fit to the observed data unless mortality due to inbreeding depression was imposed. This mortality could only be imposed for selfing, as these were the only simulations to show an excess of homozygous individuals relative to the observed data. Thus, the expected data consistently achieved nonsignificant differences from the observed data only under models of selfing with mortality, with best fits between 32% and 42% selfing. Inbreeding depression ranged from 0.70 to 0.73. The results suggest that density‐dependent mortality of early life stages is a significant force in structuring Macrocystis populations, with few highly homozygous individuals surviving. The success of these results should help to validate simulation approaches even in data‐poor systems, as a means to estimate otherwise difficult‐to‐measure life cycle parameters.
Signal peptide etiquette during assembly of a complex respiratory enzyme
Authors: James Martyn J. , Coulthurst Sarah J. , Palmer Tracy , Sargent Frank 
Published: August 2013

SummarySalmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a Gram‐negative pathogen capable of respiration with a number of terminal electron acceptors. Tetrathionate reductase is important for the infection process and is encoded by the ttrBCA operon where TtrA and TtrB are metallocofactor‐containing proteins targeted to the periplasmic side of the membrane by two different Tat targeting peptides. In this work, the inter‐relationship between these two signal peptides has been explored. Molecular genetics and biochemical approaches reveal that the processing of the TtrB Tat signal peptide is dependent on the successful assembly of its partner protein, TtrA. Inactivation of either the TtrA or the TtrB Tat targeting peptides individually was observed to have limited overall effects on assembly of the enzyme or on cellular tetrathionate reductase activity. However, inactivation of both signal peptides simultaneously was found to completely abolish physiological tetrathionate reductase activity. These data suggest both signals are normally active during assembly of the enzyme, and imply a code of conduct exists between the signal peptides where one can compensate for inactivity in the other. Since it appears likely that tetrathionate reductase presents itself for export as a multi‐signal complex, these observations also have implications for the mechanism of the bacterial Tat translocase.
Surveillance transbronchial biopsies in infant lung and heart–lung transplant recipients
Authors: Hayes Don , Baker Peter B. , Kopp Benjamin T. , Kirkby Stephen , Galantowicz Mark , McConnell Patrick I. , Astor Todd L. 
Published: August 2013

AbstractThere are limited published data on surveillance TBB for the identification of allograft rejection in infants after lung or heart‐lung transplantation. We performed a retrospective review of children under one yr of age who underwent lung or heart–lung transplant at our institution. Since 2005, four infants were transplanted (three heart–lung and one lung). The mean age (±s.d.) at the time of transplant was 5.5 ± 2.4 (range 3–8) months. A total of 16 surveillance TBB procedures were completed in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with a range of 3–7 performed per patient. A minimum of five acceptable tissue pieces with expanded alveoli were obtained in 81% (13/16) of TBB procedures and a minimum of three pieces in 88% (14/16). There was no evidence of acute allograft rejection in 88% (14/16) of TBB procedures. One TBB procedure yielded two tissue specimens demonstrating A2 acute allograft rejection. One TBB procedure failed to yield tissue with sufficient alveoli. Additionally, B‐grade assessment identified B0 in 50% (8/16), B1R in 12% (2/16), and BX (ungradeable or insufficient sample) in 38% (6/16) of biopsy procedures, respectively. In conclusion, TBB may be safely performed as an inpatient and outpatient procedure in infant lung and heart–lung transplant recipients and may provide adequate tissue for detecting acute allograft rejection and small airway inflammation.
Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency after pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Legarda Maria , Gordon Graham , Lloyd Carla , Baumann Ulrich , Kelly Deirdre A. , Shaw Nick , McKiernan Patrick 
Published: August 2013

AbstractVitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are increasingly recognized in the general population, including healthy children. There is also an increasing emphasis on the importance of vitamin D status following pediatric liver transplantation and specifically its relationship to metabolic bone disease and growth retardation. Vitamin D insufficiency has also been associated with multiple immunological and metabolic disorders in adults. To our knowledge, this has not been systematically evaluated in children undergoing liver transplantation to date. Between October 2004 and August 2008, serum 25‐(OH)‐vitamin D levels were measured in 199 children who had undergone liver transplantation at Birmingham Children's Hospital. Potential factors contributing to vitamin D levels were evaluated. Additionally, we evaluated a possible relationship between vitamin D levels and immunological phenomena and metabolic complications. Median 25‐(OH)‐vitamin D level was 19.5 ng/mL (range: 4.4–71.4 ng/mL). A total of 105 children (53%) had insufficient vitamin D levels and 28 children (14%) showed vitamin D deficiency. The only factors found to be associated with vitamin D deficiency were season of sample, ethnicity, and PTH levels. Vitamin D deficiency was more prevalent during the first year after transplantation. We did not find a significant relationship between vitamin D levels and graft function or any other immunological and metabolic complications. Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are common in children after liver transplantation, especially in winter and spring and in non‐white patients. Initial post‐transplant period and high PTH are significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D status should be monitored following pediatric liver transplantation and vitamin D supplementation provided as required.
Delayed short‐term administration of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor is a good mobilization strategy for harvesting autologous peripheral blood stem cells in pediatric patients with solid tumors
Authors: Takahashi Hiroyoshi , Kato Motohiro , Kikuchi Akira , Hanada Ryoji , Koh Katsuyoshi 
Published: August 2013

AbstractPBSCs have become the preferred source of autologous stem cells for supporting high‐dose chemotherapy in childhood solid tumors. The aims of this retrospective study were to examine the optimal timing for administration of G‐CSF after chemotherapy and to identify the patients from whom an optimal dose of PBSCs can be harvested. We evaluated the timing of G‐CSF administration for harvesting PBSCs in patients with childhood solid tumors. G‐CSF was administered immediately after chemotherapy in eight patients (11 harvests, long‐term group) and following recovery from hematological nadirs in 17 patients (21 harvests, short‐term group). The median duration of G‐CSF administration was 22 vs. 5 days, respectively (p < 0.005), and the dose of harvested CD34+ cells (×106/kg) was 1.4 vs. 2.9, respectively (p = 0.023). Our results suggest that short‐term G‐CSF administration is a good strategy for harvesting PBSCs in these patients.
Prospective Study of Maternal Mid‐pregnancy 25‐hydroxyvitamin D Level and Early Childhood Respiratory Disorders
Authors: Magnus Maria C. , Stene Lars C. , Håberg Siri E. , Nafstad Per , Stigum Hein , London Stephanie J. , Nystad Wenche 
Published: August 2013

AbstractBackgroundStudies suggest that prenatal vitamin D status may be inversely associated with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) early in life. Studies of prenatal vitamin D status and development of asthma have inconsistent findings.MethodsWe examined the associations of maternal mid‐pregnancy 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level with the frequency of LRTIs by 36 months and with current asthma at 36 months using the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study. Maternal plasma 25(OH)D level was measured using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Respiratory disorders were evaluated by maternal report through questionnaires. LRTIs were analysed in a random sample of 1248 children. Asthma was analysed using a case–control design, including 489 cases and 1183 controls. Multivariable generalised linear models calculated adjusted measures of association.ResultsThe median gestational week of sample collection was 18 weeks (range 9, 35). The mean 25(OH)D level was 73.7 nmol/L (standard deviation 23.7). Higher maternal mid‐pregnancy 25(OH)D level was associated with a reduced risk of three or more LRTIs by 36 months vs. none, adjusted risk ratio 0.74 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58, 0.93] per 20 nmol/L increase. Associations were similar when examining the frequency of LRTIs by 18 months, and the frequency of LRTIs between 18 and 36 months. Maternal mid‐pregnancy 25(OH)D level was not significantly associated with current asthma at 36 months, adjusted odds ratio 0.91 [95% CI 0.81, 1.02] per 20 nmol/L increase.ConclusionsHigher maternal mid‐pregnancy 25(OH)D level was associated with a modestly reduced risk of recurrent LRTIs by 36 months, but was not associated with current asthma at 36 months.
Genomic Selection: Status in Different Species and Challenges for Breeding
Authors: Stock KF , Reents R 
Published: August 2013

ContentsTechnical advances and development in the market for genomic tools have facilitated access to whole‐genome data across species. Building‐up on the acquired knowledge of the genome sequences, large‐scale genotyping has been optimized for broad use, so genotype information can be routinely used to predict genetic merit. Genomic selection (GS) refers to the use of aggregates of estimated marker effects as predictors which allow improved individual differentiation at young age. Realizable benefits of GS are influenced by several factors and vary in quantity and quality between species. General characteristics and challenges of GS in implementation and routine application are described, followed by an overview over the current status of its use, prospects and challenges in important animal species. Genetic gain for a particular trait can be enhanced by shortening of the generation interval, increased selection accuracy and increased selection intensity, with species‐ and breed‐specific relevance of the determinants. Reliable predictions based on genetic marker effects require assembly of a reference for linking of phenotype and genotype data to allow estimation and regular re‐estimation. Experiences from dairy breeding have shown that international collaboration can set the course for fast and successful implementation of innovative selection tools, so genomics may significantly impact the structures of future breeding and breeding programmes. Traits of great and increasing importance, which were difficult to improve in the conventional systems, could be emphasized, if continuous availability of high‐quality phenotype data can be assured. Equally elaborate strategies for genotyping and phenotyping will allow tailored approaches to balance efficient animal production, sustainability, animal health and welfare in future.
Growth and Regression in Bovine Corpora Lutea: Regulation by Local Survival and Death Pathways
Authors: Skarzynski DJ , Piotrowska‐Tomala KK , Lukasik K , Galvão A , Farberov S , Zalman Y , Meidan R 
Published: August 2013

ContentsThe bovine corpus luteum (CL) is a transient gland with a life span of only 18 days in the cyclic cow. Mechanisms controlling CL development and secretory function may involve factors produced both within and outside this gland. Although luteinizing hormone (LH) surge is the main trigger of ovulation and granulosa cells luteinization, many locally produced agents such as arachidonic acid (AA) metabolites, growth factors and cytokines were shown to complement gonadotropins action in the process of CL development. Bovine CL is a highly vascular gland, where the very rapid angiogenesis rate (until Day 5 of the cycle) results in the development of a capillary network, endowing this gland with one of the highest blood flow rate per unit mass in the body. Angiogenesis in the developing CL is later followed by either controlled regression of the microvascular tree in the non‐fertile cycle or maintenance and stabilization of the blood vessels, as seen during pregnancy. Different luteal cell types (both steroidogenic and accessory luteal cells: immune cells, endothelial cells, pericytes and fibroblasts) are involved in the pro‐ and/or anti‐angiogenic responses. The balance between pro‐ and anti‐angiogenic responses to the main luteolysin – prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) could be decisive in whether or not PGF2α induces CL regression. Fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF2) may be one of the factors that modulate the angiogenic response to PGF2α. Manipulation of local production and action of FGF2 will provide new tools for reproductive management of dairy cattle. Luteolysis is characterized by a rapid decrease in progesterone production, followed by structural regression. Factors like endothelin‐1, cytokines (tumour necrosis factorα, interferons) and nitric oxide were all shown to play critical roles in functional and structural regression of the CL by inhibiting steroidogenesis and inducting apoptosis.
Drivers of Post‐partum Uterine Disease in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Williams EJ 
Published: August 2013

ContentsPost‐partum uterine disease has a detrimental effect on dairy cow fertility; affected cows require more serves per conception, have reduced conception rates and are more likely to be culled for infertility. Furthermore, the detrimental effects on fertility remain even after clinical resolution of disease. There are many factors that influence a cow's resistance to or development of post‐partum disease, and the key drivers determining disease outcome are uterine microbial load, regulation of inflammation and immune responses peripherally and at a local level, production pressure, and metabolic (energy) status. These factors are intricately interlinked, which makes assessment of their individual effects difficult. It is clear, however, that the period surrounding calving is a key transition phase and events during this time point will influence uterine disease outcome and subsequent fertility. Good peripartum management and accurate diagnosis are critical to facilitate the use of the most effective treatment and limit the negative impact of post‐partum uterine disease on fertility. If we can improve our understanding of the underlying causes of disease, then we can identify ‘at risk’ animals and implement management and breeding strategies to prevent uterine disease or reduce its severity. Thus, this article aims to summarize the key factors that drive uterine disease in the post‐partum dairy cow.
Hypothalamic Integration of Nutrient Status and Reproduction in the Sheep
Authors: Daniel JA , Foradori CD , Whitlock BK , Sartin JL 
Published: August 2013

ContentsNutrient availability is a determinant of reproductive success. It is well known that inadequate nutrition results in reproductive failure due to a number of factors including delay of puberty or anoestrous in post‐pubertal animals. The lack of nutrients is detected primarily by changes in circulating nutrient molecules and hormones and communicated directly or indirectly to the hypothalamus and brain stem for integration. The general effect is that low nutrition leads to increased appetite stimulation and reduced reproductive performance. When nutrition is adequate, the reverse is true. Both aspects will be the focus of this review. One result of the lack of nutrients is a reduction in luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations and pulse frequency. Nutrient signals, such as glucose availability, hormonal signals, such as insulin and leptin, and neuroendocrine signals, such as neuropeptide Y and corticotropin‐releasing hormone, have been clearly demonstrated to interact to produce changes in LH and reproductive success. Other signals, such as fatty acids, ghrelin, agouti‐related peptide, melanin‐concentrating hormone, orexin, melanocyte‐stimulating hormone, kisspeptin, neurokinin, dynorphin and gonadotropin inhibitory hormone may also play a role in integrating nutrition and reproduction. This review will focus on the major features of the reciprocal control of appetite and reproduction in sheep.
Radial differential interior tomography and its image reconstruction with differentiated backprojection and projection onto convex sets
Authors: Tang Shaojie , Tang Xiangyang 
Published: August 2013

Purpose:Interior tomography has been recognized as one of the most effective approaches in computed tomography (CT) to reduce radiation dose rendered to patients. In this work, the authors propose and evaluate an imaging method of radial differential interior tomography.Methods:In interior tomography, an x‐ray beam is collimated to only irradiate the region of interest (ROI) with suspected lesions while the surrounding area/volume of normal tissues/organs is spared. In the proposed imaging method of radial differential interior tomography, the outcome is a ROI image that has gone through a radial differential filtering. The image reconstruction algorithm for the radial differential interior tomography is kept in the fashion of differentiated backprojection and projection onto convex sets, but the requireda priori knowledge in a small round area becomes zero and may be more readily available in practice.Results:Using the projection data simulated by computer and acquired by CT scanner, the authors evaluate and verify the performance of the proposed radial differential interior tomography method and its associated image reconstruction algorithm. The preliminary results show that the proposed imaging method can generate an image that is the radial differentiation of a conventional tomographic image and is robust over noise that inevitably exist in practice.Conclusions:It is believed that the proposed imaging method may find its utility in advanced clinical applications wherein a ROI‐based image processing and analysis is required for lesion visualization, characterization, and diagnosis.
Spikes in acute workload are associated with increased injury risk in elite cricket fast bowlers
Authors: Hulin Billy T , Gabbett Tim J , Blanch Peter , Chapman Paul , Bailey David , Orchard John W 
Published: August 2013

ObjectiveTo determine if the comparison of acute and chronic workload is associated with increased injury risk in elite cricket fast bowlers.MethodsData were collected from 28 fast bowlers who completed a total of 43 individual seasons over a 6-year period. Workloads were estimated by summarising the total number of balls bowled per week (external workload), and by multiplying the session rating of perceived exertion by the session duration (internal workload). One-week data (acute workload), together with 4-week rolling average data (chronic workload), were calculated for external and internal workloads. The size of the acute workload in relation to the chronic workload provided either a negative or positive training-stress balance.ResultsA negative training-stress balance was associated with an increased risk of injury in the week after exposure, for internal workload (relative risk (RR)=2.2 (CI 1.91 to 2.53), p=0.009), and external workload (RR=2.1 (CI 1.81 to 2.44), p=0.01). Fast bowlers with an internal workload training-stress balance of greater than 200% had a RR of injury of 4.5 (CI 3.43 to 5.90, p=0.009) compared with those with a training-stress balance between 50% and 99%. Fast bowlers with an external workload training-stress balance of more than 200% had a RR of injury of 3.3 (CI 1.50 to 7.25, p=0.033) in comparison to fast bowlers with an external workload training-stress balance between 50% and 99%.ConclusionsThese findings demonstrate that large increases in acute workload are associated with increased injury risk in elite cricket fast bowlers.