bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden of ventricular arrhythmias at 12-lead 24-hour ambulatory ECG monitoring in middle-aged endurance athletes versus sedentary controls
Authors: Zorzi Alessandro , Mastella Giulio , Cipriani Alberto , Berton Giampaolo , Del Monte Alvise , Gusella Beatrice , Nese Alberto , Portolan Leonardo , Sciacca Federico , Tikvina Suada , Tollot Saverio , Trovato Domenico , Iliceto Sabino , Schiavon Maurizio , Corrado Domenico
Published: August 2018

Background

Whether prolonged and intense exercise increases the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias in middle-aged athletes remains to be established.

Design

Prospective, case-control.

Methods

We studied 134 healthy competitive athletes >30 years old (median age 45 (39–51) years, 83% males) who had been engaged in 9 ± 2 h per week of endurance sports activity (running, cycling, triathlon) for 13 ± 4 consecutive years. One hundred and thirty-four age- and gender-matched individuals served as controls. Both groups underwent 12-lead 24-h ambulatory electrocardiogram monitoring, which included a training session in athletes. Ventricular arrhythmias were evaluated in terms of number, complexity (i.e. couplet, triplet or non-sustained ventricular tachycardia), exercise-inducibility and morphology.

Results

Thirty-five (26%) athletes and 31 (23%) controls showed >10 isolated premature ventricular beats or ≥1 complex ventricular arrhythmia ( p = 0.53). Athletes with ventricular arrhythmias were older (median 48 versus 43 years old, p = 0.03) but did not differ with regard to hours of training and years of activity compared with athletes without ventricular arrhythmias. Ten (7%) athletes and six (5%) controls showed >500 premature ventricular beats/24 h ( p = 0.30): the most common ventricular arrhythmia morphologies were infundibular (six athletes and five controls) and fascicular (two athletes and one control).

Conclusions

The prevalence of ventricular arrhythmias at 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiogram monitoring did not differ between middle-aged athletes and sedentary controls and was unrelated to the amount and duration of exercise. These findings do not support the hypothesis that endurance sports activity increases the burden of ventricular arrhythmias. Among individuals with frequent premature ventricular beats, the predominant ectopic QRS morphologies were consistent with the idiopathic and benign nature of the arrhythmia.
Acute Kidney Injury Defined by Fluid Corrected Creatinine in Neonates After the Norwood Procedure
Authors: SooHoo Megan McFerson , Patel Sonali S. , Jaggers James , Faubel Sarah , Gist Katja M.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Both the Norwood procedure and acute kidney injury (AKI) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The impact of AKI by measured and fluid corrected serum creatinine on outcomes after the Norwood procedure has not been previously studied. The purpose of this study was to (1) identify the incidence of AKI, (2) determine AKI risk factors, and (3) evaluate outcomes in patients with AKI using both measured and fluid corrected serum creatinine.

Methods:

Single-center retrospective chart review from 2009 to 2015 including neonates who underwent the Norwood procedure. Acute kidney injury was defined by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes staging criteria using both measured and fluid corrected serum creatinine. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the risk factors associated with AKI.

Results:

Ninety-five neonates underwent the Norwood procedure. Correcting for fluid overload increased the incidence of AKI from 40% to 44%, increased AKI severity in 15 patients, and improved the identification of adverse outcomes associated with AKI. Patients palliated with the modified Blalock-Taussig shunt (mBTS) had a 9.4 greater odds of fluid corrected AKI compared to those palliated with a right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.68-52.26, P = .01). A higher vasoactive inotrope score (VIS) on postoperative day (POD) 0 was associated with fluid corrected AKI (odds ratio: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.06-1.35; P = .003).

Conclusions:

Acute kidney injury is common after the Norwood procedure. Correcting creatinine for fluid balance revealed new cases of AKI. Use of an mBTS and higher VIS on POD 0 were associated with increased risk of AKI.
Proximal Rotational Metatarsal Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus (PROMO)
Authors: Wagner Pablo , Wagner Emilio
Published: August 2018

Background:

Hallux valgus deformity consists of a lateral deviation of the great toe, metatarsus varus, and pronation of the first metatarsal. Most osteotomies only correct varus, but not the pronation of the metatarsal. Persistent postoperative pronation has been shown to increase deformity recurrence and have worse functional outcomes. The proximal rotational metatarsal osteotomy (PROMO) technique reliably corrects pronation and varus through a stable osteotomy, avoiding fusing any healthy joints. The objective of this research is to show a prospective series of the PROMO technique.

Methods:

Twenty-five patients (30 feet) were operated with the PROMO technique. The sample included 22 women and 3 men, average age 46 years (range 22-59), for a mean prospective follow-up of 1 year (range 9-14 months). Inclusion criteria included symptomatic hallux valgus deformities, absence of severe joint arthritis, or inflammatory arthropathies, with a metatarsal malrotation of 10 degrees or more, with no tarsometatarsal subluxation or arthritis on the anteroposterior or lateral foot radiograph views. The mean preoperative and postoperative Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) score, metatarsophalangeal angle, intermetatarsal angle, metatarsal malrotation, complications, satisfaction, and recurrence were recorded.

Results:

The mean preoperative and postoperative LEFS scores were 56 and 73. The median pre-/postoperative metatarsophalangeal angle was 32.5/4 degrees and the intermetatarsal angle 15.5/5 degrees. The metatarsal rotation was satisfactorily corrected in 24 of 25 patients. An Akin osteotomy was needed in 27 of 30 feet. All patients were satisfied with the surgery, and no recurrence or complications were found.

Conclusions:

PROMO is a reliable technique, with good short-term results in terms of angular correction, satisfaction, and recurrence. Long-term studies are needed to determine if a lower hallux recurrence rate occurs with the correction of metatarsal rotation in comparison with conventional osteotomies.

Level of evidence:

IV, prospective case series.
The short-term bronchodilator effects of the dual phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 inhibitor RPL554 in COPD
Authors: Singh Dave , Abbott-Banner Katharine , Bengtsson Thomas , Newman Kenneth
Published: August 2018

We investigated the short-term bronchodilator effects of RPL554 (an inhaled dual phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 inhibitor) combined with other bronchodilators in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with reversibility (>150 mL to short-acting bronchodilators).

Study 1 was a six-way, placebo-controlled crossover study (n=36) with single doses of RPL554 (6 mg), salbutamol (200 µg), ipratropium (40 µg), RPL554 (6 mg)+salbutamol (200 µg), RPL554 (6 mg)+ipratropium (40 µg) or placebo. Study 2 was a three-way crossover study (n=30) of tiotropium (18 µg) combined with RPL554 (1.5 or 6 mg) or placebo for 3 days. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), lung volumes and specific airway conductance (sGaw) were measured.

In study 1, peak FEV1change compared with placebo was similar with RPL554, ipratropium and salbutamol (mean 223, 199 and 187 mL, respectively). The peak FEV1was higher for RPL554+ipratropiumversusipratropium (mean difference 94 mL; p<0.0001) and RPL554+salbutamolversussalbutamol (mean difference 108 mL; p<0.0001). In study 2 (day 3), both RPL554 doses caused greater peak FEV1effects than placebo. The average FEV1(0–12 h)increase was greater with RPL554 6 mg onlyversusplacebo (mean difference 65 mL; p=0.0009). In both studies, lung volumes and sGawshowed greater RPL554 combination treatment effectsversusmonotherapy.

RPL554 combined with standard bronchodilators caused additional bronchodilation and hyperinflation reduction.
Cancer Risks for PMS2-Associated Lynch Syndrome
Authors: ten Broeke Sanne W. , van der Klift Heleen M. , Tops Carli M.J. , Aretz Stefan , Bernstein Inge , Buchanan Daniel D. , de la Chapelle Albert , Capella Gabriel , Clendenning Mark , Engel Christoph , Gallinger Steven , Gomez Garcia Encarna , Figueiredo Jane C. , Haile Robert , Hampel Heather L. , Hest Liselotte van , Hopper John L. , Hoogerbrugge Nicoline , von Knebel Doeberitz Magnus , Le Marchand Loic , Letteboer Tom G.W. , Jenkins Mark A. , Lindblom Annika , Lindor Noralane M. , Mensenkamp Arjen R. , Møller Pål , Newcomb Polly A. , van Os Theo A.M. , Pearlman Rachel , Pineda Marta , Rahner Nils , Redeker Egbert J.W. , Olderode-Berends Maran J.W. , Rosty Christophe , Schackert Hans K. , Scott Rodney , Senter Leigha , Spruijt Liesbeth , Steinke-Lange Verena , Suerink Manon , Thibodeau Stephen , Vos Yvonne J. , Wagner Anja , Winship Ingrid , Hes Frederik J. , Vasen Hans F.A. , Wijnen Juul T. , Nielsen Maartje , Win Aung Ko
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Lynch syndrome due to pathogenic variants in the DNA mismatch repair genes MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 is predominantly associated with colorectal and endometrial cancer, although extracolonic cancers have been described within the Lynch tumor spectrum. However, the age-specific cumulative risk (penetrance) of these cancers is still poorly defined for PMS2-associated Lynch syndrome. Using a large data set from a worldwide collaboration, our aim was to determine accurate penetrance measures of cancers for carriers of heterozygous pathogenic PMS2 variants.

Methods

A modified segregation analysis was conducted that incorporated both genotyped and nongenotyped relatives, with conditioning for ascertainment to estimates corrected for bias. Hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% CIs were estimated for each cancer site for mutation carriers compared with the general population, followed by estimation of penetrance.

Results

In total, 284 families consisting of 4,878 first- and second-degree family members were included in the analysis. PMS2 mutation carriers were at increased risk for colorectal cancer (cumulative risk to age 80 years of 13% [95% CI, 7.9% to 22%] for males and 12% [95% CI, 6.7% to 21%] for females) and endometrial cancer (13% [95% CI, 7.0%–24%]), compared with the general population (6.6%, 4.7%, and 2.4%, respectively). There was no clear evidence of an increased risk of ovarian, gastric, hepatobiliary, bladder, renal, brain, breast, prostate, or small bowel cancer.

Conclusion

Heterozygous PMS2 mutation carriers were at small increased risk for colorectal and endometrial cancer but not for any other Lynch syndrome–associated cancer. This finding justifies that PMS2-specific screening protocols could be restricted to colonoscopies. The role of risk-reducing hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for PMS2 mutation carriers needs further discussion.
No Difference between Spray Dried Milk and Native Whey Supplementation with Strength Training
Authors: HAMARSLAND HåVARD , HANDEGARD VILDE , KÅSHAGEN MAURITZ , BENESTAD HAAKON B. , RAASTAD TRULS
Published: August 2018

Background

A rapid digestibility and high leucine content are considered important for maximal stimulation of muscle protein synthesis. Consequently, with these properties, native whey may hold greater anabolic potential than milk, when supplemented in combination with strength training. Our aim was to compare the effects of supplementation with milk or native whey, during a 12-wk strength training period, on gains in muscle mass and strength in young adults.

Methods

In this double-blinded, randomized, controlled study a total of 40 untrained young men and women received two daily servings of either milk or native whey containing 20 g of protein, during a 12-wk strength training intervention. Muscle strength, lean mass, thigh muscle cross-sectional area, m. vastus lateralis thickness and muscle fiber cross-sectional area were assessed before and after the training period. In addition, the acute phosphorylation of the anabolic kinases p70S6K, 4E-BP1 and eEF-2 in response to a standardized workout and supplementation was investigated before and after the 12-wk training period.

Results

Muscle mass and strength increased, by all measures applied (5%–16%, P < 0.001), with no differences between groups (P > 0.25). p70S6K phosphorylation increased (~1000%, P < 0.02) 2 h after exercise in the untrained and trained state, but no differences in anabolic signaling were observed between supplements (P > 0.40). No correlation between these acute measures and changes in muscle mass or strength were observed.

Conclusion

Supplementation with milk or native whey during a 12-wk strength training period did not differentially affect muscle mass and strength in young untrained individuals.
Targeting the vasculature of tumours: combining VEGF pathway inhibitors with radiotherapy
Authors: Kanthou Chryso , Tozer Gillian
Published: August 2018

The development of blood vessels by the process of angiogenesis underpins the growth and metastasis of many tumour types. Various angiogenesis inhibitors targeted against vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and its receptors have entered the clinic more than a decade ago. However, despite substantial clinical improvements, their overall efficacy proved to be significantly lower than many of the pre-clinical studies had predicted. Antiangiogenic agents have been combined with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and more recently immunotherapy in many pre-clinical and clinical studies in an effort to improve their efficacy. To date, only their use alongside chemotherapy is approved as part of standard treatment protocols. Most pre-clinical studies have reported improved tumour control from the addition of antiangiogenic therapies to radiotherapy and progress has been made in unravelling the complex mechanisms through which VEGF inhibition potentiates radiotherapy responses. However, the efficacy of this combination is variable, and many questions still remain as to how best to administer the two modalities to achieve optimal response and minimal toxicity. One important limiting factor is that, unlike some other targeted therapies, antiangiogenic agents are not administered to selected patient populations, since biomarkers for identifying responders have not yet been established. Here, we outline VEGF biology and review current approaches that aim to identify biomarkers for stratifying patients for treatment with angiogenesis inhibitors. We also discuss current progress in elucidating mechanisms of interaction between radiotherapy and VEGF inhibitors. Ongoing clinical trials will determine whether these combinations will ultimately improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients.
Contrast dose reduction with shortened injection durations in coronary CT angiography on 16-cm Wide-detector CT scanner
Authors: Qu Ting-ting , Li Jian-ying , Jiao Xi-jun , Zhang Xiang-li , Song Zhe-fan , Guo Yin-xia , Guo Jian-xin
Published: August 2018

Objectives:

To investigate the use of shortened contrast injection with late triggering in coronary CT angiography (CCTA) for decreasing contrast dose and maintaining image quality.

Methods:

106 patients for CCTA on a 16-cm wide-detector CT were prospectively enrolled into groups A (n = 50) and B (n = 56) randomly. Patient weight-dependent contrast medium (Iopamiro, 370 mgI ml−1) at dose rate of 25 mgI/kg/s was used with 8 s and the standard 10 s injection time in groups A and B, respectively. CT values of the aortic sinus (AS), right coronary artery, left anterior descending and left circumflex at the proximal, middle and distal segments were measured and compared. Subjective image quality was evaluated and analyzed with Fisher exact test. Contrast dose, injection rate and enhancement duration (between the start of enhancement in AS and scan finish) were also compared.

Results:

There was no difference in the injection rate and enhancement duration between the two groups (p > 0.05), while the total contrast dose in group A (36.2 ± 5.7 ml) was significantly lower than in group B (46.4 ± 6.3 ml) (p < 0.001). There was no difference for CT values in all major coronary vessels between the two groups and no difference in subjective image quality scores (all p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

It is feasible to shorten contrast injection to 8 s in CCTA on wide-detector CT systems to significantly reduce contrast dosage, maintain adequate enhancement and reduce contrast-related artifacts.

Advances in knowledge:

(1) Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) scans with shortened contrast medium injection duration and late triggering are feasible with a 16-cm wide-detector CT system (2) Compared with the conventional CCTA with 10 s contrast injection duration, the new contrast injection protocol of using shortened injection duration (to 8 s) and late triggering reduces contrast dose to 36.2 ml, while maintaining adequate enhancement in vessels and reducing contrast-related artifacts.
Absence of toll-like receptor 9 Pro99Leu polymorphism in cervical cancer
Authors: Chauhan Alex , Pandey Nilesh , Raithatha Nitin , Patel Purvi , Desai Ajesh , Jain Neeraj
Published: August 2018

Background: Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) plays a key role in the elimination of viral pathogens by recognising their CpG DNA. Polymorphisms in the TLR9 gene may influence their recognition and subsequent elimination. Therefore, the present study was designed to elucidate the role of a rare unexplored TLR9 gene polymorphism C296T/ Pro99Leu (rs5743844) in cervical cancer susceptibility among Indian women.

Methods: The genotyping of TLR9 Pro99Leu polymorphism in 110 cervical cancer patients and 141 healthy controls was performed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Results: The genotype frequency detected in both cervical cancer and control populations was 1.0 (CC), 0.0 (CT) and 0.0 (TT); while the allele frequency was found to be 1.0 (C) and 0.0 (T).

Conclusions: The present study demonstrates no involvement of TLR9 C296T/ Pro99Leu polymorphism in cervical cancer susceptibility and supports minor allele frequency (MAF) (0.0002) status of the same as no nucleotide variation was detected in any of the study subjects.
Recent advances in understanding grasslands
Authors: Stevens Carly J.
Published: August 2018

Grasslands are a vitally important ecosystem, supporting a wide range of ecosystem services and high levels of biodiversity. As a consequence, they have long been a focus for ecologists, playing host to some of the world’s longest-running ecological experiments and providing the inspiration for many long-standing theories and debates. Because the field of grassland ecology is broad, encompassing many areas of ecology, this article picks some areas of particular debate and development to look at recent advances. The areas include relationships between diversity and productivity, ecosystem stability and ecosystem service provision, global change threats from nutrient addition, invasive species, climate change, and plant soil interactions.
Robust long-read native DNA sequencing using the ONT CsgG Nanopore system
Authors: Carter Jean-Michel , Hussain Shobbir
Published: August 2018

Background: The ability to obtain long read lengths during DNA sequencing has several potentially important practical applications. Especially long read lengths have been reported using the Nanopore sequencing method, currently commercially available from Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT). However, early reports have demonstrated only limited levels of combined throughput and sequence accuracy. Recently, ONT released a new CsgG pore sequencing system as well as a 250b/s translocation chemistry with potential for improvements. Methods: We made use of such components on ONTs miniature ‘MinION’ device and sequenced native genomic DNA obtained from the near haploid cancer cell line HAP1. Analysis of our data was performed utilising recently described computational tools tailored for nanopore/long-read sequencing outputs, and here we present our key findings. Results: From a single sequencing run, we obtained ~240,000 high-quality mapped reads, comprising a total of ~2.3 billion bases. A mean read length of 9.6kb and an N50 of ~17kb was achieved, while sequences mapped to reference with a mean identity of 85%. Notably, we obtained ~68X coverage of the mitochondrial genome and were able to achieve a mean consensus identity of 99.8% for sequenced mtDNA reads. Conclusions: With improved sequencing chemistries already released and higher-throughput instruments in the pipeline, this early study suggests that ONT CsgG-based sequencing may be a useful option for potential practical long-read applications with relevance to complex genomes.
Revised typification of Cortusa matthioli (Primulaceae)
Authors: Sennikov Alexander N.
Published: August 2018

Cortusa matthioli was described by Linnaeus from Austria (former Duchies of Austria and Styria) and Siberia (probably vicinities of Lake Baikal). Three specimens and two illustrations are associated with the protologue of this name, referable to C. matthioli subsp. matthioli and C. matthioli subsp. altaica. The specimen Herb. Burser XIII: 155, which was collected on Traunstein Mountain in Austria, is designated as the lectotype. This action preserves the current application of the name and supersedes the previous neotypification based on Herb. Linnaeus 199.1.
Ocena gminnego programu ochrony zdrowia psychicznego
Authors: Jastrzębowska Aleksandra , Balwicki Łukasz , Balwicka-Szczyrba Małgorzata , Zarzeczna-Baran Marzena
Published: August 2018

Cel pracy

Ocena struktury gminnego programu ochrony zdrowia psychicznego.

Metoda

Przedmiotem analizy był Gdański Program Ochrony Zdrowia Psychicznego na lata 2016-2023. Dokonano weryfikacji zawartości oraz analizy treści dokumentu w porównaniu z dostępnym wzorem programu polityki zdrowotnej, opracowanym przez Agencję Oceny Technologii Medycznych i Taryfikacji. Wzięto pod uwagę obecność wszystkich punktów zawartych we wzorcu oraz precyzję zawartych w nich określeń, zwłaszcza sformułowanych celów, oczekiwanych rezultatów oraz mierników efektywności.

Wyniki

Oceniany program nie zawiera wzorcowych elementów właściwych dla programów polityki zdrowotnej, co pod względem merytorycznym obniża jakość. W dokumencie ujawniono brak oszacowania kosztów realizacji programu. Sformułowane cele główne oraz cele szczegółowe nie spełniają kryteriów SMART. Wśród zawartych w programie mierników efektywności, największy udział mają wskaźniki produktu o charakterze ilościowym. Brakuje natomiast informacji na temat sposobów mierzenia rezultatów jakościowych oraz określenia wskaźników wpływu. W kwestii ewaluacji nie została wzięta pod uwagę ocena jakości świadczeń, ich efektywności oraz trwałości zamierzonych efektów.

Wnioski

Potrzebne są rekomendacje dla kształtu programów zdrowia psychicznego, co zwiększy skuteczność planowanych w nich działań. Efekt taki zostałby osiągnięty poprzez stosowanie do takich programów kryteriów i procedur wymaganych dla programów polityki zdrowotnej określonych w ustawie z dnia 27 sierpnia 2004 roku o świadczeniach opieki zdrowotnej finansowanych ze środków publicznych. Przy tworzeniu programów warto oprzeć się na wiedzy specjalistów z zakresu zdrowia publicznego.
Atividades motoras e qualidade de vida de adolescentes de Paranaguá, Paraná
Authors: Ferrari Junior Geraldo Jose , Da Silva Raísa Carvalho , Soares Bruna Adamar Castelhano , Beltrame Thais Silva , Pelegrini Andreia , Felden Érico Pereira Gomes
Published: August 2018

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar as relações entre o envolvimento em diferentes atividades motoras, de acordo com a frequência de prática, e a percepção da qualidade de vida de adolescentes. Participaram do estudo 773 adolescentes das escolas estaduais de Paranaguá (Paraná), com idade de 14 a 19 anos. Por meio de um questionário autoaplicável, foram coletadas informações sociodemográficas, a atividade motora (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents) e percepção da qualidade de vida (Pediatric Quality of Life InventoryTM, versão 4.0). Adolescentes que praticavam futebol (p < 0,005), basquete (p < 0,005), lutas (p < 0,005), musculação (p < 0,001), tênis/tênis de mesa (p < 0,005), natação (p < 0,0005), voleibol (p < 0,005), ginástica na academia (p < 0,005) e andavam de bicicleta (p < 0,005) apresentaram percepção mais positiva de qualidade de vida em diferentes domínios. Os domínios da qualidade de vida com mais atividades motoras associadas foram “saúde e atividade” e “convívio com outras pessoas”. Envolvimento em diversas atividades motoras associou-se a melhor percepção da qualidade de vida, diferindo-se conforme frequência. Adolescentes que praticavam uma ou duas vezes por semana o futebol, basquete, lutas, natação, corrida, tênis/tênis de mesa e mus- culação, também como, os que praticavam, de três ou mais vezes na semana, a caminhada, voleibol, fazer exercício em academias de ginástica, corrida e andavam de bicicleta apresentaram percepção mais positiva da qualidade de vida que os não praticantes.
Fortification of Rice Grain with Gac Aril (Momordica Conchinchinensis) Using Vacuum Impregnation Technique
Authors: Hari Purnomo Eko , Agatha Nindyautami Fransiska , Konsue Nattaya , Pathomrungsiyounggu Pattavara l
Published: August 2018

The objective of this research was to improve functional property of rice by fortification with gac aril using vacuum impregnation (VI) process. Effects of rice variety, preparation method and VI condition on gac aril fortified rice quality were investigated. Sao Hai (SH) and Khaw Dok Mali 105 (KDML 105) were prepared to achieve polished and unpolished rice. The samples were impregnated with 30% gac aril solution under VI condition (vacuum pressure 500 mmHg), 0% gac solution was used as a control. After drying, the samples were analyzed for physicochemical property i.e. texture, color L*, a* and b*, total fiber, lycopene, β-carotene and total phenolic (TPC) content and antioxidant activity (DPPH assay) as well as sensory quality (9-point hedonic scale). The results showed that both varieties of unpolished rice had higher hardness and darker colour than polished samples. Unpolished SH impregnated with gac aril showed the highest content of β-carotene (22.10±0.83 mg/g), lycopene (8.38±0.11 µg/g), and TPC (0.24±0.03 mg GAE/g) while antioxidant activity of all gac aril fortified samples were not significantly different (p>0.05) (DPPH value ranged 1.39-1.72 mmol TE/ g) and higher than control. However, sensory evaluation showed that gac fortified unpolished KDML 105 had the highest score of the overall acceptability. Based on all properties, unpolished KDML 105 was chosen for studying the suitable VI condition in further step. Unpolished KDML 105 was soaked in 30% gac aril solution under different vacuum pressures (0, 300 and 500 mmHg) and pressurizing techniques (single and pulse pressure). The dried samples were analyzed and it was found that the high vacuum pressure at 500 mmHg and pulse pressure gave the highest β-carotene (41.41 ± 4.53 mg/g), lycopene (25.07 ±1.74 µg/g) and TPC (0.21±0.03 mg GAE/g) content and DPPH value (2.91±0.90 mmol TE/ g), while physical properties, texture and sensory were not significantly different (p>95%). In addition, glycemic index (GI) of rice after VI process was decreased from 84.24 to 72.04. Finally, it can be concluded that non-polishing process, high vacuum pressure and pulse pressurizing are the suitable condition to prepare gac aril fortified rice. The health benefits of rice are improved with high antioxidant activity and lower GI.
Perceived Barriers of Young Adults for Participation in Physical Activity
Authors: Sabharwal Anjali , Sabharwal Manisha
Published: August 2018

This study aimed to explore the perceived barriers to physical activity among college students Study Design: Qualitative research design. Eight focus group discussions on 67 college students aged 18-24 years (48 females, 19 males) was conducted on College premises. Data were analysed using inductive approach. Participants identified a number of obstacles to physical activity. Perceived barriers emerged from the analysis of the data addressed the different dimensions of the socio-ecological framework. The result indicated that the young adults perceived substantial amount of personal, social and environmental factors as barriers such as time constraint, tiredness, stress, family control, safety issues and much more. Understanding the barriers and overcoming the barriers at this stage will be valuable. Health professionals and researchers can use this information to design and implement interventions, strategies and policies to promote the participation in physical activity. This further can help the students to deal with those barriers and can help to instil the habit of regular physical activity in the later adult years.
Ethanol Extracts of Coleus tuberosusFlesh and Peel as a Potential Source of Natural Antioxidant and Breast Cancer Prevention Agent
Authors: Nugraheni Mutiara , Lastariwati Badraningsih , Windarwati Windarwati
Published: August 2018

This study examines the effects of ethanol extracts of Coleus tuberosus flesh and peel on T47D cancer cells. Antioxidant potential was evaluated through cellular antioxidant activity experiment, and anti-proliferation activity was evaluated using MTT assay (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide). The effects on cell cycle were evaluated with a flow cytometry, while induction of apoptosis was evaluated based on morphological changes by staining with acridine orange and ethidium bromide. The results indicate that the peel extract had higher cellular antioxidant activity than the flesh extract. The IC50 of celullar antioxidant activity of the flesh and peel extracts were 287.13±10.35 g/ml and 217.86±12.96 g/ml, respectively. The peel extract also had higher anti-proliferative activity. The IC50 of anti-proliferative activity were 887.05±5.03 µg/ml (flesh extract) and 548.18±4.52 µg/ml (peel extract). The peel and flesh extracts can cause cell cycle arrest in the S phase and G2-M phase. The extracts induce apoptosis within T47D cancer cells, showing an orange color. Therefore, these extracts could be used as potential sources of natural antioxidants and breast cancer prevention agents.
Plant Seed Proteins: Chemistry, Technology and Applications
Authors: K Sonawane Sachin , S Arya Shalini
Published: August 2018

This review deals with the significance of plant seed proteins. Plant seed proteins are known to provide various beneficial activities like antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antiviral and antioxidant. They are essential source of amino acids; act as a source of nutrition booster. Present review elaborates on extraction of proteins and hydrolysis with their advantages and disadvantages, their nutritional property, health benefits and challenges associated with the peptides.
Effects of Processing (Germination and Popping) on the Nutritional and Anti-Nutritional Properties of Finger Millet (Eleusine Coracana)
Authors: Singh Chauhan Ekta , Sarita Sarita
Published: August 2018

This study is aimed to analyze nutrient and anti-nutrient content of finger millet and add value to it through household processing techniques such as germination and popping. Total ash content for WRFMF (Whole Raw Finger Millet Flour), GFMF (Germinated Finger Millet Flour) and PFMF (Popped Finger Millet Flour) were 2.8±0.17, 2.7±0.10 and 2.88±0.08 (g/100g). Finger millets are good source of protein and in the same line protein content was 6.3±0.20 in WRFMF, 8.8±0.30 in GFMF, 7.1±0.3 g/100g in PFMF. Mineral analysis of processed forms of finger millet revealed that calcium and iron content increased significantly during germination. While during popping of finger millet, calcium content decreased and iron content increased significantly. Phosphorus content decreased in GFMF and increased in PFMF significantly. Statistical analysis for significance was observed at P < 0.05. Tannin contents of WRFMF, GFMF and PFMF were found as 870.8±1.05, 360.5±0.10, 610.2±2.1 mg/100g respectively. Phytic acid content for WRFMF was 851.4±1.6 mg/100g, in germination it was 238.5±1.3 mg/100g (GFMF) and while in popping it was 333.1±1.07 mg/100g (PFMF). Oxalic acid content and trypsin inhibitor activity decreased after germination and popping process significantly. Results showed that germination and popping increased the nutritional profile and decreased anti-nutrients content in finger millet. The current findings are helpful for nourishing and maximize the human health. Reduction of anti-nutrients enhanced the acceptability, digestibility and bioavailability of nutrient. Household food processing strategies like germination and popping can be used for improving the nutritional quality to promote finger millet utilization.
Plastic pollution and dentistry
Authors: Strong Bethan
Published: August 2018

Dental nurse Bethan Strong considers the case for raising awareness
Supporting… Samaya
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: August 2018

How one Bright Horizons nursery in London helped to settle in a 12-month-old who had just moved to the UK with her Indian family. By Annette Rawstrone
Synthesis of Nanobentonite as Heavy Metal Adsorbent with Various Solvents
Authors: Sirait Makmur , Gea Saharman , Bukit Nurdin , Siregar Nurdin , Sitorus Ceria
Published: August 2018

The nanobentonite has been synthesized from natural bentonite taken from Tapanuli Utara, Indonesia using coprecipitation method with various solvents (HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3). Its properties as a metal adsorbent were investigated by Atomic Adsorption Spectrophotometry. X-Ray Diffraction analysis revealed that the bentonite produced is in nanometer scale. The characterization results obtained from the SiO2single phase with highest dhkl was at millier index (101) with 2 of 21.9o, 22.0o, 22.07o respectively. The results of Microscope-Scanning Electron Energy analysis of nanobentonite dispersion indicated a reduction in agglomeration and finer nanobentonite surface. The Surface Area Analyzer results showed the SBET nanobentonite for solvent variation of HCL, H2SO4, and HNO3 respectively were 731.76 m2/g, 868.11 m2/g, 493.97 m2/ g. Lastly, Atomic Adsorption Spectrophotometric test showed that the optimal absorption of the metal content possessed by variety of HCl and nanobentonites with adsorption power of 91.16% for Pb, 76.39% for Cu, and 82.74% Co.
A Study of the Effects of Waste Egg and Shrimp Shells on the Toxicity Immobilisation of Chemicals
Authors: Uapipatanakul Boontida
Published: August 2018

Natural resources are declining rapidly. Water scarcity is one of the biggest crises that the world faces. Even though there are many treatment methods, it still leaves a large carbon footprint. Hence, biological treatment is desired. However, there are many toxic compounds that contaminate wastewater, which inhibit biological treatment. Therefore, waste egg and shrimp shells were introduced as adsorbents to immobilize toxicity as a pre-treatment method. Egg and shrimp shells were tested for their surface charge with zeta potential. Then, Escherichia coli (E.coli) cells were exposed to the toxic compounds, copper sulfate and carbonyl phenol, for 15 minutes. Subsequently, E.coli cells were regrown on the agar plates to determine the recuperation rate of the colonies. It was found that eggshells decreased the toxicity of the tried concoction to E.coli, and enabled the colonies to recover by up to 62%. Moreover, it has proved that there is potential that the surface charge has an effect on the adsorption process. Eggshells, which have -21.85 zeta potential, adsorb copper sulfate, which is positively charged, better than carbonyl phenol, which is negatively charged; and vice versa for shrimp shells.
Biosorption of Cu(II) Metal ions in Fixed Column by using Coconut Husk Waste
Authors: N.H Harmiwati , Akli Khairul , Youfa Rita , Isfus Senjawati Maria , Khairati Miftahul
Published: August 2018

A new technology has been currently developed for the removal of heavy metal waste in water, called biosorption. Biosorption technology has been widely used to remove heavy metals from liquid waste. The potential biomass which can be used as bio sorbent was activated coconut husk waste. By using the continuous flow method and activated coconut husk as bio sorbent, the obtained optimum flow rate and bed height of bio sorbent were 2 mL/min and 0.1 g with adsorption capacity of 188.322 mg/g.
Pathways to policy impact: a new approach for planning and evidencing research impact
Authors: Reed Mark S. , Bryce Rosalind , Machen Ruth
Published: August 2018

Background

The use of research in policy settings is complex, unpredictable and influenced by a range of poorly understood social factors. This makes it difficult to plan for, facilitate and evaluate policy impacts arising from research.

Aims and objectives

Propose and test tools for planning for and facilitating research impact, based on a new logic model combined with a novel approach to public/stakeholder analysis

Propose and test methods for establishing causal links between research and policy impacts.

Use case study findings to provide new empirical insights into the social processes that mediate the generation of impact from research.

Methods

Social Network Analysis, qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews, and analysis of secondary data were used in a case study of peatland climate change research in Scottish Government policy.

Findings

Boundary organisations and centrally-positioned, well-trusted individuals, were crucial to the development of a trusted body of research in which policymakers were sufficiently confident as the basis for policy.

Discussion and conclusions

The non-linear social dynamics that characterise science-policy networks can be understood and evaluated. By using the tools described in this paper, researchers and other stakeholders can better plan, facilitate and evaluate research impact.
Research on Low Temperature Performance of the F-doped LiFePO4/C Cathode Materials
Authors: Wu Borong , Zhang Ying , Li Ning , Yang Chunwei , Yang Zhaojun , Zhang Cunzhong , Wu Feng
Published: August 2018

F-doped LiFePO4/C cathode materials were synthesized by two-step solid-state reaction route. The F-doped LiFePO4/C increases the intrinsic conductivity, the diffusion of lithium ions, also improves the high-rate and low-temperature performances of LiFePO4. The SEM images reveal some small morphology changes of the two kinds of the materials, so the improved properties may not due to grain size changes but crystal structure changes. The F-doped material has a higher capability at low temperature. At -20°C, with the rate of 0.5C, the discharge capacity was 82mAhg-1, higher than that of undoped material(65mAhg-1) and the result is better than the previous study[17](65mAhg-1 at the rate of 0.3C), and the disparity would enlarge with the rate increased. The CV plots indicate that the doped material reveals less degree of polarization. F-doping sample improves the electrical conductivity of material, accelerating the process of Li+ deintercalation, therefore, improving the electrochemical performances at low temperature.
Comparative Studies of Electrochemical Behaviors of Benzenediols at a Gold Nanoparticle/carbon Nanotube Composite Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Dong Yong-Ping , Zhang Qian-Feng , Duan Taike
Published: August 2018

A gold nanoparticle/carbon nanotube composite modified glassy carbon electrode was fabricated and used to investigate electrochemical characteristics of hydroquinone, catechol, and resorcinol via cyclic voltammetric analysis under neutral pH conditions. The results imply that the gold nanoparticle/carbon nanotbue modified electrode exhibited a synergistic and excellent electrocatalytic effect of gold nanoparticles and carbon nanotube on the redox behaviors of benzenediols. The reversibility of electrochemical reaction was improved greatly and the peak currents were increased significantly compared with a bare electrode. Good linear relationships were obtained between the oxidation peak currents and the concentrations of catechol and resorcinol. The electrochemical process of catechol was controlled by surface adsorption process, while that of resorcinol was controlled by diffusion process. However, the peak current and the concentration of hydroquinone were not proportional in the whole concentration range, which is because the controlling process of electrochemical reactions was different in the different hydroquinone concentration. Benzenediols could be detected simultaneously at the modified electrode but not at the bare electrode. The stability of the modified electrode was excellent in the benzenediols solutions, which made it possible for the practical application of the modified electrode.
Visible-Light Photocatalyst of Tetramethoxyphenylporphyrin Sensitized TiO2 Nanotube
Authors: Hu Xiao-Jun , Jiang Qi-Zhong , Liao Xiao-Zhen , Shangguan Wen-Feng , Ma Zi-Feng
Published: August 2018

This paper investigated the performance of photocatalysts of TiO2 nanotubes sensitized by photosensitizers of tetramethoxyphenylporphyrin(TMPP) for producing H2 from water under visible light. This photocatalyst might have a smaller band gap (2.6 eV). The investigation shows that a photosensitized catalyst combined TiO2 nanotube with TMPP can be used to extend the absorption of solar light region and enhance the efficiency of energy conversion, and the quantity of H2 evolution is 1.427 L m-2h-1g-1. It was a way to apply the dye sensitized TiO2 nanotubes photocatalyst in the visible light for clean energy.
Comparison Between Electrochemical Noise and Electrochemical Frequency Modulation Measurements during Pitting Corrosion
Authors: Rauf A. , Mahdi E.
Published: August 2018

The electrochemical noise (EN) and electrochemical frequency modulation (EFM) techniques have been compared for their use to detect pitting corrosion. To do this, experiments on different corroding systems showing passivation and pitting corrosion were carried out. These corroding systems were: (1) Aluminum in borate buffer solution with and without chlorides (pitting corrosion + passivation behavior), (2) AISI 304SS in 0.3 wt.% FeCl3 solution and 6 wt.% FeCl3 solution at room temperature (passivation behavior + pitting and/or crevice corrosion), and (3) AISI 304SS in 6 wt.% FeCl3 at elevated temperature of 57 °C (pitting corrosion). Both EN and EFM were measured on-line meanwhile changing the corrosive environment by adding chlorides or by increasing the temperature.

A potential perturbation composed of two sine waves is applied with the help of EFM to get current response at various frequencies. As the corrosion process is nonlinear in nature, the ac-response contains components at harmonic and intermodulation frequencies. Analysis of current components at different frequencies yields the information about the corrosion behavior under investigation. EFM may be considered to detect pitting initiation and its further development due to the results obtained by measuring the so-called "causality factors", which are the ratio of the current components in the ac-response.
Comparison of Various Techniques to Characterize a Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cell Loaded with Sulfate Reducing Biocatalysts
Authors: Kumar K. Sathish , Solorza-Feria Omar , Hernández-Vera Rafael , Vazquez-Huerta Gerardo , Poggi-Varaldo Héctor M.
Published: August 2018

A single-chamber microbial fuel cell (SCMFC) with a carbon supported Pt-cathode for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and loaded with a sulfate reducing bacterial consortium as biocatalyst in the anodic chamber was characterized by polarization by variable resistance (VR) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) methods. From VR a whole cell configuration maximum volumetric power of 92.5 mW m-3 was attained at a current density of 459 A m-3 and voltage of 0.202 V. The LSV method of whole cell configuration gave a higher maximum power density of 197.5 mW m-3 at current density of 696 mA m-3 at the potential of 0.284V; this disagreement was ascribed to possible reduction of power and potential overshoot with the LSV. There was a fair agreement between internal resistance values of whole cell configuration determined by VR and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS): 2225 and 2307 Ω , respectively. Yet, internal resistance measured by LSV was 30% lower for the whole cell configuration. Both LSV and EIS show the advantage of reduced potential overshoot; yet, EIS provides more detailed information on equivalent circuit of the cell and resistance contributions of the electrodes, electrolyte and membrane. Further cyclic voltammetry tests gave midpoint potential of -0.215 V vs saturated calomel electrode, a value close to those reported for bacterial cytochromes involved in extracellular electron transfer processes. It is concluded that in spite of particular advantages of some techniques over others, the combination of electrochemical methods can be very valuable for shedding light and internal checking of the main characteristics of a microbial fuel cell.
Nanoporous Carbon Sponge as the Anode Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Dang Lianna , Sa Qina , Zheng Zhangfeng , Wang Yan , Ren Shenqiang
Published: August 2018

Lithium ion battery is the choice for future generations of portable electronics and hybrid and electric vehicles due to its high energy density, power density and long cycle life compared to other battery technologies. However, current graphite anode limits its application due to the low energy density derived from layered graphitic structure and low rate capability due to the slow diffusion of Li ion in graphite. In this study, a simple and versatile approach was developed to generate nanoporous carbon sponge using the combination of hard templating and etching reaction. The electrochemical properties have been tested with these novel anode materials, which showed remarkable electrochemical performance and cycling stability. Therefore, the nanoporous carbon sponge is promising to be used as the anode materials for next generation lithium ion batteries requiring high energy density and power density.
Hydrogen Generation of Al-La-Bi Alloy in Aqueous Inorganic Salt Solutions
Authors: Liu Jian-Bo , Tang Lei , Li Chao , Tang Bin Hong , Xiao Xia , Xing Hu Wei , Fan Mei-qiang
Published: August 2018

A method for obtaining hydrogen from Al-La-Bi alloy in different solutions was investigated for the production of inexpensive, pure, and safe hydrogen for micro-fuel cells. The hydrogen generation amount and rate could be regulated by changing composition design or salt solutions. Combined with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and hydrogen generation experiments, the hydrolysis byproduct La(OH)3 and inorganic salt solution stimulated the hydrolysis reaction of Al-La-Bi alloy and water, which was mostly based on micro galvanic cell between Al and Bi in the previous work. Increasing La content led to decrease particle size in the milling process which led to large special surface area and contact area of aluminum and water. Using inorganic salt solution such as Na2SnO3 solution might produce metal Sn which covered on Al surface and functioned as a cathode of a micro galvanic cell. The Al-13 wt%La-10 wt%Bi alloy yielded 1113 ml/g hydrogen with 100 % efficiency with 60 min at 343 K.