bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of genotype on chemical composition, ruminal degradability and in vitro fermentation characteristics of maize residual plants
Authors: Zeller F. M. E. , Edmunds B. L. , Schwarz F. J. 
Published: January 2014

SummaryThe objective of this study was to determine the changes to residual plant feeding value of early‐ and late‐maturing maize varieties. The influence of the cell wall carbohydrate composition, in terms of neutral and acid detergent fibre (NDF and ADF) content, NDF and dry matter (DM) degradability, and in vitro organic matter digestibility and gas production on the feeding value of a range of maize genotypes, was measured. The different genotypes were allotted into two maturity groups (MG I – early to mid‐early: S210‐S240; MG II – mid‐late to late: S 250‐S280) and harvested at four different harvest dates (depending on the DM content of the kernels). The maize varieties of MG I had lower NDF and ADF contents and higher ruminal DM degradability, in vitro digestibility and gas production and thus a higher feeding value than MG II at the same stage of physiological maturity. A strong negative relationship between NDF content and the ruminal DM degradability (r = −0.81) was observed. The data indicate that the early‐maturing varieties permit a larger flexibility in harvesting due to a longer period of starch inclusion into the kernel whilst simultaneously maintaining a good supply of rumen‐available fibre. Conclusively, the higher feeding value of the early‐maturing varieties, based on lower NDF and high DM digestibility, permits more flexibility in the harvesting period over the later‐maturing varieties.
Characteristics of canine nasal discharge related to intranasal diseases: a retrospective study of 105 cases
Authors: Plickert H. D. , Tichy A. , Hirt R. A. 
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVESTo compare characteristics of nasal discharge caused by different intranasal aetiologies in dogs.METHODSMedical records of 105 dogs with nasal discharge due to intranasal disease were retrospectively reviewed with special focus on composition, severity, duration and localisation of discharge. On the basis of diagnostic findings, cases were classified into different disease groups and characteristics of discharge were compared between groups.RESULTSCases were classified as having non‐specific rhinitis (n=42), nasal neoplasia (n=23), foreign bodies (n=21), nasal mycosis (n=7) and miscellaneous disorders (n=13). Dogs with foreign bodies or nasal mycosis were significantly younger. Mucous components of discharge occurred more often in non‐specific rhinitis and nasal neoplasia, although haemorrhagic components predominated in nasal neoplasia when discharge lasted ê14 days. Pure or mixed haemorrhagic discharge was significantly more common with nasal neoplasia, foreign bodies and nasal mycosis. Purulent components were associated with longer duration of discharge and predominantly seen in non‐specific rhinitis and foreign bodies. Dogs with foreign bodies were presented earlier and sneezing was more frequent. Nasal stridor was significantly more often observed in dogs with nasal neoplasia.CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCECharacteristics of nasal discharge and associated clinical signs might aid in planning the diagnostic approach, but a combination of diagnostic techniques is still required to confirm a diagnosis.
Hepatitis B virus X protein promotes P3 transcript expression of the insulin‐like growth factor 2 gene via inducing hypomethylation of P3 promoter in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tang Shaohui , Hu Wei , Hu Jianjun , Wu Shenglan , Li Junfeng , Luo Yuhong , Cao Mingrong , Zhou Hongke , Jiang Xiangwu 
Published: January 2014

AbstractBackground & AimsHepatitis B virus (HBV) X protein (HBx) contributes to hepatocarcinogenesis. The overexpression of transcripts from P3 and P4 promoters of the insulin‐like growth factor 2 (IGF2) gene is observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we aimed to explore the involvement of HBx in P3‐driven mRNA overexpression and underlying epigenetic mechanism.MethodsP3 mRNA, P3 methylation status, HBx mRNA and HBx protein were analysed in human HCC samples with and without HBV infection using quantitative RT‐PCR, bisulphite sequencing and Western blotting. The effects of HBx on P3 mRNA expression, and P3 transcriptional activity and methylation were further evaluated in HCC cell lines.ResultsP3 mRNA level was higher and P3 methylation level was lower in HBV‐positive HCC specimens compared with those of HBV‐negative HCC specimens. P3 transcript abundance was positively correlated with HBx expression and negatively correlated with P3 methylation in HCC specimens. The stable expression of HBx upregulated P3 mRNA expression and reduced P3 methylation level in HepG2‐HBx cells. The transient expression of HBx stimulated P3 promoter activity and decreased P3 methylation level of P3 promoter‐luciferase construct in a dose‐dependent manner in HepG2 and Huh‐7 cells. Furthermore, HBx mRNA expression was found to be independent predictive factors for both shorter disease‐free survival time and shorter overall survival time of HCC patients.ConclusionHBx may promote IGF2‐P3 transcript expression by inducing hypomethylation of P3 promoter and may be associated with an inferior clinical outcome of HBV‐related HCC patients. This study provides useful information for understanding the mechanism of HBx‐mediated HCC.
Burden of liver disease in Brazil
Authors: Nader Lysandro A. , de Mattos Angelo A. , Bastos Gisele A. N. 
Published: January 2014

AbstractBackground & AimsThe burden of liver diseases in the Brazilian population is still unknown. To assess the impact of liver diseases on hospital admissions and mortality within the framework of the Brazilian Unified Health System.MethodsAn analytical ecological observational study was carried out. Secondary data on hospital admissions and deaths because of liver disease were collected from the Unified Health System Information Technology Department (DATASUS) database, between 2001 and 2010. All liver diseases included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐10) were reviewed.ResultsLiver diseases were the eighth leading cause of death in Brazil. The prevalence of hospital admission because of liver disease during the period of analysis was 0.72% (853 571 hospitalizations), and the mortality rate was 3.34% (308 290 deaths). The mean age at hospital admission and death because of liver disease was 48.05 and 58.10 years respectively. Both hospitalization and death because of liver disease were more common among men, and followed an upward trend over the years. Cirrhosis was the main cause of hospital admissions and death by liver disease in Brazil. The South region of the country had the highest hospital admission rates because of liver disease in Brazil, whereas the Southeast region had the highest mortality rate.ConclusionThis study provides evidence of the relevance of liver diseases within the framework of the Brazilian Unified Health System, and shows that the burden of these diseases is not only significant but progressive, at least in terms of hospital admissions and mortality rate.
Advanced Visualization and Accessibility to Heterogeneous Monitoring Data
Authors: Glisic Branko , Yarnold Matthew T. , Moon Franklin L. , Aktan A. Emin 
Published: January 2014

AbstractStructural health monitoring (SHM) is a promising tool for better management of infrastructure. However, failure to manage large amounts of SHM data properly is a big barrier for its widespread application. Data management is especially challenging when heterogeneous data are involved and combined with camera images. Various sensors based on different technologies can measure many parameters such as strain, tilt, weather, etc., whereas live cameras can visualize traffic response. In addition, all the data streams can be registered both statically and dynamically. Data management is even more complex if multiple users access the data and have diverse backgrounds and interests (e.g., the owner/manager of the structure, operator, responsible engineer, and academic). In this article, general principles for SHM data management are researched, established, and proposed by the authors, and an original solution for data management based on these principles is presented. For validation purposes, the proposed principles were implemented in novel data management software and applied to a signature bridge. Feedback from interested groups including the managers, operators, engineers of record, and academics is used for validation. Thus, this article details the researched and proposed accessibility and visualization principles, and conceptual development of novel solution for data management, which combines computer science, internet omnipresence, and structural engineering.
Crisis Pregnancy Centers, Poverty, and the Expanding Frontiers ofAmerican Abortion Politics
Authors: Hussey Laura S. 
Published: January 2014

Pro‐life “crisis pregnancy centers” are an increasingly important venue for theAmerican abortion conflict, yet scholars know little about them. The increasing concentration of abortion among the poor also potentially heightens their relevance since they aim to reduce abortion through offers of practical support. This article describes this branch of the pro‐life movement, focusing on its approach to poverty and the political factors that may shape it. My national, mixed‐method study of pro‐life pregnancy centers finds that they devote substantial attention to poverty, frequently collaborate with social welfare agencies, and claim that a compassionate, “woman‐centered” approach differentiates them from other pro‐life groups. Despite this, there is little evidence that the development of such centers is related to conflict in the pro‐life movement over poverty.Related ArticlesCarmines,Edward G.,Jessica C.Gerrity, andMichael W.Wagner.2010. “.”Politics & Policy38():1135‐1158.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00272.x/abstractGainous,Jason,Stephen C.Craig, andMichael D.Martinez.2008. “.”Politics & Policy36():972‐1004.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2008.00147.x/abstractMedoff,Marshall H.2010. “.”Politics & Policy38():193‐221.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00235.x/abstractRelated MediaGibbs,Nancy.2007. “.” . February 15.http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1590444,00.htmlFilm Clip.2012. “.” February 18.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lG412TvBTMo
Psychological pain and reduced resting‐state heart rate variability in adults with a history of depression
Authors: Meerwijk Esther L. , Chesla Catherine A. , Weiss Sandra J. 
Published: January 2014

AbstractPsychological pain is a prominent symptom in people who experience depression, but its relation with physiological measures has not been explored. This study compared two measures of psychological pain, the Orbach & Mikulincer Mental Pain (OMMP) questionnaire and the Psychache Scale, for their relationship with resting‐state heart rate variability (HRV) in 35 adults with a history of depression. Low‐frequency HRV decreased significantly with increasing psychological pain, particularly in participants who did not use antidepressants, while the beat‐to‐beat fractal dimension decreased in participants who did use antidepressants. Neither heart rate nor high‐frequency HRV was associated with psychological pain. These results suggest a state of arousal characterized by increased sympathetic activity. Results also indicate that the OMMP may be a more accurate measure of autonomic arousal associated with current psychological pain than the Psychache Scale.
The Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Membranous Features of the Plasmodium Liver Stage Tubovesicular Network
Authors: Grützke Josephine , Rindte Kerstin , Goosmann Christian , Silvie Olivier , Rauch Carolin , Heuer Dagmar , Lehmann Maik J , Mueller Ann‐Kristin , Brinkmann Volker , Matuschewski Kai , Ingmundson Alyssa 
Published: January 2014

AbstractFor membrane‐bound intracellular pathogens, the surrounding vacuole is the portal of communication with the host cell. The parasitophorous vacuole (PV) harboring intrahepatocytic Plasmodium parasites satisfies the parasites' needs of nutrition and protection from host defenses to allow the rapid parasite growth that occurs during the liver stage of infection. In this study, we visualized the PV membrane (PVM) and the associated tubovesicular network (TVN) through fluorescent tagging of two PVM‐resident Plasmodium berghei proteins, UIS4 and IBIS1. This strategy revealed previously unrecognized dynamics with which these membranes extend throughout the host cell. We observed dynamic vesicles, elongated clusters of membranes and long tubules that rapidly extend and contract from the PVM in a microtubule‐dependent manner. Live microscopy, correlative light‐electron microscopy and fluorescent recovery after photobleaching enabled a detailed characterization of these membranous features, including velocities, the distribution of UIS4 and IBIS1, and the connectivity of PVM and TVN. Labeling of host cell compartments revealed association of late endosomes and lysosomes with the elongated membrane clusters. Moreover, the signature host autophagosome protein LC3 was recruited to the PVM and TVN and colocalized with UIS4. Together, our data demonstrate that the membranes surrounding intrahepatic Plasmodium are involved in active remodeling of host cells.
Securing water and wastewater systems: global perspectives
Authors: Clark Robert M. 
Published: January 2014

AbstractThere has been long‐standing concern that water systems are vulnerable to man‐made and natural threats. In the United States, after the events of 11 September 2001, government planners focused on the possibility that the nation's critical infrastructure may be vulnerable to terrorist attacks. However, as demonstrated in this paper, there are many other factors that influence water supply security including lack of water resource availability, threats from point and nonpoint source pollution to water‐related ecosystems, and impact of climate change. In order to meet water security threats, there is a need to balance human and environmental water needs while at the same time safeguarding essential ecosystem services and biodiversity. Integrated water resources management may help achieve this balance. Examples are presented, which illustrate the diversity of water security throughout the world.
Validity of the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 for Direct Measurement or Indirect Estimation of Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Female Soccer Players
Authors: Martínez-Lagunas Vanessa , Hartmann Ulrich 
Published: January 2014

Purpose:To evaluate the validity of the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIR1) for the direct assessment and the indirect estimation of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) in female soccer players compared with a maximal laboratory treadmill test (LTT).Methods:Eighteen female soccer players (21.5 ± 3.4 y, 165.6 ± 7.5 cm, 63.3 ± 7.4 kg; mean ± SD) completed an LTT and a YYIR1 in random order (1 wk apart). Their VO2max was directly measured via portable spirometry during both tests and indirectly estimated from a published non-gender-specific formula (YYIR1-F1).Results:The measured VO2max values in LTT and YYIR1 were 55.0 ± 5.3 and 49.9 ± 4.9 mL · kg−1 · min−1, respectively, while the estimated VO2max values from YYIR1-F1 corresponded to 45.2 ± 3.4 mL · kg−1 · min−1. Large positive correlations between the VO2max values from YYIR1 and LTT (r = .83, P < .001, 90% confidence interval = .64–.92) and YYIR1-F1 and LTT (r = .67, P = .002, .37–.84) were found. However, the YYIR1 significantly underestimated players’ VO2max by 9.4% compared with LTT (P < .001) with Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement ranging from –20.0% to 1.4%. A significant underestimation from the YYIR1-F1 (P < .001) was also identified (17.8% with Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement ranging from –31.8% to –3.8%).Conclusions:The YYIR1 and YYIR1-F1 are not accurate methods for the direct assessment or indirect estimation of VO2max in female soccer players. The YYIR1-F1 lacks gender specificity, which might have been the reason for its larger error.
Effects of Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation on Simulated Soccer Performance
Authors: Williams Jeremy , Abt Grant , Kilding Andrew E. 
Published: January 2014

Purpose:To determine the effects of acute short-term creatine (Cr) supplementation on physical performance during a 90-min soccer-specific performance test.Methods:A double-blind, placebo-controlled experimental design was adopted during which 16 male amateur soccer players were required to consume 20 g/d Cr for 7 d or a placebo. A Ball-Sport Endurance and Speed Test (BEAST) comprising measures of aerobic (circuit time), speed (12- and 20-m sprint), and explosive-power (vertical jump) abilities performed over 90 min was performed presupplementation and postsupplementation.Results:Performance measures during the BEAST deteriorated during the second half relative to the first for both Cr (1.2–2.3%) and placebo (1.0–2.2%) groups, indicating a fatigue effect associated with the BEAST. However, no significant differences existed between groups, suggesting that Cr had no performance-enhancing effect or ability to offset fatigue. When effect sizes were considered, some measures (12-m sprint, –0.53 ± 0.69; 20-m sprint, –0.39 ± 0.59) showed a negative tendency, indicating chances of harm were greater than chances of benefit.Conclusions:Acute short-term Cr supplementation has no beneficial effect on physical measures obtained during a 90-min soccer-simulation test, thus bringing into question its potential as an effective ergogenic aid for soccer players.
Influence of Pacing Manipulation on Performance of Juniors in Simulated 400-m Swim Competition
Authors: Skorski Sabrina , Faude Oliver , Abbiss Chris R. , Caviezel Seraina , Wengert Nina , Meyer Tim 
Published: January 2014

Purpose:To date, there has been limited research examining the influence of pacing pattern (PP) on middle-distance swimming performance. As such, the purpose of the current study was to examine the influence of PP manipulation on 400-m freestyle swimming performance.Methods:15 front-crawl swimmers (5 female, 10 male; age 18 ± 2 y) performed 3 simulated 400-m swimming events. The initial trial was self-selected pacing (PPSS). The following 2 trials were performed in a counterbalanced order and required participants to complete the first 100 m more slowly (PPSLOW: 4.5% ± 2.2%) or quickly (PPFAST: 2.4% ± 1.6%) than the PPSS trial. 50-m split times were recorded during each trial.Results:Overall performance time was faster in PPSS (275.0 ± 15.9 s) than in PPFAST (278.5 ± 16.4 s, P = .05) but not significantly different from PPSLOW (277.5 ± 16.2 s, P = .22). However, analysis for practical relevance revealed that pacing manipulation resulted in a “likely” (>88.2%) decrease in performance compared with PPSS.Conclusion:Moderate manipulation of the starting speed during simulated 400-m freestyle races seems to affect overall performance. The observed results indicate that PPSS is optimal in most individuals, yet it seems to fail in some swimmers. Future research should focus on the identification of athletes possibly profiting from manipulations.
Variability of Measurements of Sweat Sodium Using the Regional Absorbent-Patch Method
Authors: Dziedzic Christine E. , Ross Megan L. , Slater Gary J. , Burke Louise M. 
Published: January 2014

Context:There is interest in including recommendations for the replacement of the sodium lost in sweat in individualized hydration plans for athletes.Purpose:Although the regional absorbent-patch method provides a practical approach to measuring sweat sodium losses in field conditions, there is a need to understand the variability of estimates associated with this technique.Methods:Sweat samples were collected from the forearms, chest, scapula, and thigh of 12 cyclists during 2 standardized cycling time trials in the heat and 2 in temperate conditions. Single measure analysis of sodium concentration was conducted immediately by ion-selective electrodes (ISE). A subset of 30 samples was frozen for reanalysis of sodium concentration using ISE, flame photometry (FP), and conductivity (SC).Results:Sweat samples collected in hot conditions produced higher sweat sodium concentrations than those from the temperate environment (P = .0032). A significant difference (P = .0048) in estimates of sweat sodium concentration was evident when calculated from the forearm average (mean ± 95% CL; 64 ± 12 mmol/L) compared with using a 4-site equation (70 ± 12 mmol/L). There was a high correlation between the values produced using different analytical techniques (r2 = .95), but mean values were different between treatments (frozen FP, frozen SC > immediate ISE > frozen ISE; P < .0001).Conclusion:Whole-body sweat sodium concentration estimates differed depending on the number of sites included in the calculation. Environmental testing conditions should be considered in the interpretation of results. The impact of sample freezing and subsequent analytical technique was small but statistically significant. Nevertheless, when undertaken using a standardized protocol, the regional absorbent-patch method appears to be a relatively robust field test.
Hormonal and Neuromuscular Responses to High-Level Middle- and Long-Distance Competition
Authors: Balsalobre-Fernández Carlos , Ma Tejero-González Carlos , del Campo-Vecino Juan 
Published: January 2014

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of high-level competition on salivary free cortisol, countermovement jump (CMJ), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and the relationships between these fatigue indicators in a group of elite middle- and long-distance runners.Method:The salivary free cortisol levels and CMJ height of 10 high-level middle- and long-distance runners (7 men, 3 women; age 27.6 ± 5.1y) competing in 800-m, 1500-m, 3000-m, or 5000-m events in the 2013 Spanish National Championships were measured throughout a 4-wk baseline period, then again before and after their respective races on the day of the competition. Athletes’ RPE was also measured after their races.Results:Cortisol increased significantly after the race compared with the value measured 90 min before the race (+98.3%, g = 0.82, P < .05), while CMJ height decreased significantly after the race (–3.9%, g = 0.34, P < .05). The decrease in CMJ height after the race correlates significantly with the postcompetition cortisol increase (r = .782, P < .05) and the RPE assessment (r = .762, P < .01).Conclusions:Observed differences in CMJ height correlate significantly with salivary free cortisol levels and RPE of middle- and long-distance runners. These results show the suitability of the CMJ for monitoring multifactorial competition responses in high-level middle- and long-distance runners.