bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and properties of cotton fabric functionalized by dimethyl phosphite and perfluorohexyl group grafted graphene oxide
Authors: Xu Jia , Zhang Jingyu , Xu Jiahan , Miao Guangyuan , Feng Long , Zhang Zhanzhu , Zhang Huanxia
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Nanotechnology has been able to bind to a wide range of functional textiles in recently. This paper aims to modify graphene oxide (GO) by grafting dimethyl phosphite and perfluorohexyl iodine. It was applied to cotton to obtain a flame-retardant, water-repellent and ultraviolet-resistant multifunctional fabric.

Design/methodology/approach

The GO-multi was synthesized by grafted dimethyl phosphite and perfluorohexyl chain and applied to cotton by the dipping-drying method. The surface chemistry of functionalized GO was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The thermal stability of the fabric was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The combustion properties were evaluated using a microscale combustion calorimeter, match test and TGA. Hydrophobicity of film and fabric surface was characterized by static contact angle, and the UV resistance of the fabric was represented by the ultroviolet procetion factor (UPF) value.

Findings

Dimethyl phosphite and perfluorohexyl chains were grafted on the surface of GO successively. In the match test, the GO-multi/cotton kept the original outline of the fabric. According to the micro-scale combustion calorimetry (MCC) data, the value of PHRR and THR of GO-multi/cotton was about 45 per cent lower than that of untreated cotton fabric. It was found from the field-emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM) pictures that the residue of GO-multi/ cotton burned by the match method was more compact and the graphene lamellar structure remained more complete. The hydrophobic effect of GO-multi/cotton was improved compared to untreated cotton, but not better than the fabric treated by the perfluorohexyl chain-grafted GO. The UPF value of GO-multi/cotton reached 253, which indicated that the anti-ultraviolet performance of GO-multi was greatly improved after it was deposited on the cotton fabric.

Research limitations/implications

Although the hydrophobic effect was much higher than that of untreated cotton fabric, its hydrophobic effect was not satisfied, which may be due to the fact that the content of F element content was low. So, it is still needed to explore the modifying method to increase the functional component amount on the GO nanosheet.

Practical implications

This modifying method can be used in any of multifunctional textile preparation process. The hydrophobic and flame-retardant cotton fabric revealed a sample for use in outdoor sports such as clothes and tents.

Originality/value

To meet the needs of multifunctional cotton fabrics, the modification of GO with dimethyl phosphite and perfluorohexyl iodine has not been reported. The modified fabric has flame-retardant, UV-resistant and hydrophobic properties.
3D printing build orientation optimization for flexible support platform
Authors: Shen Hongyao , Ye Xiaoxiang , Xu Guanhua , Zhang Linchu , Qian Jun , Fu Jianzhong
Published: September 2019

Purpose

During the 3D printing process, the model needs to add a support structure to ensure structural stability. Excessive support structure reduces printing efficiency and results in material cost. A flexible support platform for 3 D printing has been designed. It can form an external support structure to replace the original support structure. This paper aims to study the influence of a model’s build orientation on properties when the model is printed on the platform, aiming to provide users with suitable solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A fitness function for estimating the support structure with a support length is constructed. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is modified and applied to find the build orientation that minimizes the support structure. However, when the model is printed on the platform, the build orientation of the minimum support structure enhances the complexity of the working path, resulting in an increase of printing time, which needs to be avoided. This paper applies a multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm to minimize the support structure while minimizing printing time. The Pareto solution is obtained by the algorithm.

Findings

It is found that the model that has the cantilever structure can reduce more support structure after optimization on the platform, when there is surface quality requirement. When there is no limit, the modified algorithm can minimize the support structure of each model. Considering support structure and printing time, the MOPSO algorithm can easily get optimization results to guide the practical work.

Originality/value

This paper optimizes the model’s build orientation on the flexible support platform by PSO, thereby reducing material cost and improving work efficiency.
A design approach towards sustainable buildings in Algeria
Authors: Rahmouni Sofiane , Smail Rachid
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to achieve the national strategic agenda’s criteria that aim for accomplishing sustainable buildings by estimating the effects of energy efficiency measures in order to reduce energy consumption and CO2emission.

Design/methodology/approach

A design approach has been developed based on simulation software and a modeled building. Therefore, a typical office building is considered for testing five efficiency measures in three climatic conditions in Algeria. This approach is conducted in two phases: first, the analysis of each measure’s effect is independently carried out in terms of cooling energy and heating energy intensities. Then, a combination of optimal measures for each climate zone is measured in terms of three sustainable indicators: final energy consumption, energy cost saving and CO2emission.

Findings

The results reveal that a combination of optimal measures has a substantial impact on building energy saving and CO2emission. This saving can rise to 41 and 31 percent in a hot and cold climate, respectively. Furthermore, it is concluded that obtaining higher building performance, different design alternatives should be adapted to the climate proprieties and the local construction materials must be applied.

Originality/value

This study is considered as an opportunity for achieving the national strategy, as it may contribute in improving office building performance and demonstrating a suitable tool to assist stakeholders in the decision making of most important parameters in the design stage for new or retrofit buildings.
Context dependency of top‐down, bottom‐up and density‐dependent influences on cheetah demography
Authors: Gigliotti Laura C. , Slotow Rob , Hunter Luke T. B. , Fattebert Julien , Sholto‐Douglas Craig , Jachowski David S.
Published: August 2019

Research on drivers of demographic rates has mostly focused on top predators and their prey, and comparatively less research has considered the drivers of mesopredator demography. Of those limited studies, most focused on top‐down effects of apex predators on mesopredator population dynamics, whereas studies investigating alternative mechanisms are less common.

In this study, we tested hypotheses related to top‐down, bottom‐up and density‐dependent regulation of demographic rates in an imperilled mesopredator, the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus).

We used a 25‐year dataset of lion density, cheetah density and prey density from the Mun‐Ya‐Wana Conservancy in South Africa and assessed the effects of top‐down, bottom‐up and density‐dependent drivers on cheetah survival and reproduction.

In contrast to the top‐down and bottom‐up predictions, both adult and juvenile cheetahs experienced the lowest survival during months with high prey densities and low lion densities. We observed support only for a density‐dependent response in juvenile cheetahs, where they had a higher probability of reaching independence during times with low cheetah density and low prey density. We did not identify any strong drivers of litter size.

Collectively, our results indicate that high apex predator abundance might not always have negative effects on mesopredator populations, and suggest that context dependency in top‐down, bottom‐up and density‐dependent factors may regulate demographic rates of cheetahs and other mesopredators. Our results highlight the complexities of population‐level drivers of cheetah demographic rates and the importance of considering multiple hypotheses of mesopredator population regulation.
Influence of Muzzle Instability on Bullet Deflection after Perforating Laminated Particleboards
Authors: Kerkhoff Wim , Alberink Ivo , van der Ham Koen C.J.M. , Mattijssen Erwin J.A.T.
Published: September 2019

The influence of muzzle instability on bullet deflection, when perforating laminated particleboards, was studied with three different handgun bullet types. The mean deflection angles of .32 Auto FMJ and .38 Special SJHP bullets were calculated to be 0.90° and 0.83°, respectively after perforating particleboards orthogonally at a 1 m muzzle‐to‐target distance. The mean angles dropped to 0.70° and 0.58° at a 15 m muzzle‐to‐target distance. The differences in deflection angles proved to be statistically significant (p < 0.05) with p‐values of 0.023 and 0.001, respectively. The mean calculated deflection angles of .38 Special LRN bullets also dropped from 1.51° to 1.38° when the muzzle‐to‐target distance was increased from 1 to 15 m, but this difference was not significant (p‐value of 0.357). The results support the hypothesis that muzzle instability has an influence on deflection. The possible implications for shooting incident reconstructions and for future research are discussed.
Volatile Organic Compound Profiling from Postmortem Microbes using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Cernosek Terezie , Eckert Kevin E. , Carter David O. , Perrault Katelynn A.
Published: September 2019

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are by‐products of cadaveric decomposition and are responsible for the odor associated with decomposing remains. The direct link between VOC production and individual postmortem microbes has not been well characterized experimentally. The purpose of this study was to profile VOCs released from three postmortem bacterial isolates (Bacillus subtilis, Ignatzschineria indica, I. ureiclastica) using solid‐phase microextraction arrow (SPME Arrow) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). Species were inoculated in headspace vials on Standard Nutrient Agar and monitored over 5 days at 24°C. Each species exhibited a different VOC profile that included common decomposition VOCs. VOCs exhibited upward or downward temporal trends over time. Ignatzschineria indica produced a large amount of dimethyldisulfide. Other compounds of interest included alcohols, aldehydes, aromatics, and ketones. This provides foundational data to link decomposition odor with specific postmortem microbes to improve understanding of underlying mechanisms for decomposition VOC production.
SWAT‐LUT: A Desktop Graphical User Interface for Updating Land Use in SWAT
Authors: Moriasi Daniel N. , Pai Naresh , Steiner Jean L. , Gowda Prasanna H. , Winchell Michael , Rathjens Hendrik , Starks Patrick J. , Verser J. Alan
Published: September 2019

Long‐term simulations of agricultural watersheds have often been done assuming constant land use over time, but this is not a realistic assumption for many agricultural regions. This paper presents the soil and water assessment tool (SWAT)‐Landuse Update Tool (LUT), a standalone, user‐friendly desktop‐based tool for updating land use in the SWAT model that allows users to process multi‐year land use data. SWAT‐LUT is compatible with several SWAT model interfaces, provides users with several options to easily prepare and incorporate land use changes (LUCs) over a simulation period, and allows users to incorporate past or emerging land use categories. Incorporation of LUCs is expected to provide realistic model parameterization and scenario simulations. SWAT‐LUT is a public domain interface written in Python programming language. Two applications at the Fort Cobb Reservoir Experimental Watershed located in Oklahoma and pertinent results are provided to demonstrate its use. Incorporating LUCs related to implementation of recommended conservation practices over the years reduced discharge, evapotranspiration, sediment, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus loads by 59%, 9%, 68%, 53%, and 88%, respectively. The user’s manual is included in this article as Supporting Information. The SWAT‐LUT executable file and an example SWAT project with three land use rasters and the user’s manual are available at the United States Department of Agriculture‐Agricultural Research Service Grazinglands Research Laboratory website under Software. Editor’s note: This paper is part of the featured series on Optimizing Ogallala Aquifer Water Use to Sustain Food Systems. See the February 2019 issue for the introduction and background to the series.
Coronary artery calcium score in female rheumatoid arthritis patients: Associations with apolipoproteins and disease biomarkers
Authors: Bernardes Miguel , Madureira António , Oliveira Ana , Martins Maria João , Lucas Raquel , Costa Lúcia , Pereira Jorge G. , Ventura Francisco , Ramos Isabel , Martins Elisabete
Published: August 2019

Aims and methods

In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), cardiovascular (CV) comorbidities are a major cause of mortality. Coronary Calcium Score (CCS) assessed by computed tomography has been associated with RA prognosis. In this work, we aimed to assess CCS in female RA patients and determine CCS association with different clinical, laboratory and imaging disease parameters.

Results

We evaluated 60 female patients, with a mean age of 53.6 ± 10.4 years, a mean Disease Activity Score of 28 joints (DAS28) (4v) and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) of 4.542 ± 1.317 and 1.488 ± 0.631, respectively, and a disease duration of 14.7 ± 10.3 years. Mean CCS value was 35.192 ± 117.786. CCS > 10 was significantly associated with CV risk factors (age: odds ratio [OR] = 1.120; P = .002, body mass index [BMI] ≥ 25 kg/m2: OR = 0.271; P = .025, high‐density lipoprotein [HDL]: OR = 0.011; P = .025, low‐density lipoprotein/ HDL ratio: OR = 2.084; P = .030, apolipoprotein A1 [ApoA1]: OR = 0.965; P = .014, apolipoprotein B/ApoA1 [ApoB/ApoA1] ratio: OR = 59.834; P = .011, homocysteine: OR = 1.287; P = .045, diabetes: OR = 10.400; P = .043, and anti‐diabetic therapy: OR = 10.667, P = .041), disease parameters (C‐reactive protein [CRP]: OR = 1.038; P = .046, DAS[4v]: OR = 1.900; P = .009, DAS28[4v; CRP]: OR = 1.700; P = .019, DAS[3v]: OR = 1.947; P = .010, DAS28[3v; CRP]: OR = 1.696; P = .022, HAQ: OR = 3.299; P = .023, erosion score: OR = 1.015; P = .012, and total modified Sharp/van der Heijde Score: OR = 1.008; P = .035), biomarkers (osteoprotegerin: OR = 1.505; P = .022), and bone mineral density (femoral: OR = 0.005; P = .018, lumbar spine: OR = 0.001; P = .002, left hand: OR = 7.9 × 10−9; P = .005, and osteoporosis: OR = 6.628; P = .007). After adjustment for age and BMI, significant associations were maintained with ApoA1, ApoB/ApoA1 ratio, homocysteine, CRP, DAS(4v), DAS(4v; CRP), DAS(3v) and DAS(3v; CRP). A sensitivity analysis undertaken after excluding the 6 diabetics yielded similar results.

Conclusions

Our work reinforces the hypothesis that in RA, CCS may be a useful tool in CV risk assessment, particularly valuable in poorer controlled patients with certain lipoprotein profiles.
Adolescent‐onset heavy cannabis use associated with significantly reduced glial but not neuronal markers and glutamate levels in the hippocampus
Authors: Blest‐Hopley Grace , O'Neill Aisling , Wilson Robin , Giampietro Vincent , Lythgoe David , Egerton Alice , Bhattacharyya Sagnik
Published: September 2019

Cannabis use has been associated with adverse mental health outcomes, the neurochemical underpinnings of which are poorly understood. Although preclinical evidence suggests glutamatergic dysfunction following cannabis exposure in several brain regions including the hippocampus, evidence from human studies have been inconsistent. We investigated the effect of persistent cannabis use on the brain levels of N‐acetyl aspartate (NAA) and myoinositol, the metabolite markers of neurons and glia, the site of the main central cannabinoid CB1 receptor, and the levels of glutamate, the neurotransmitter directly affected by CB1 modulation. We investigated cannabis users (CUs) who started using during adolescence, the period of greatest vulnerability to cannabis effects and focused on the hippocampus, where type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CBR1) are expressed in high density and have been linked to altered glutamatergic neurotransmission. Twenty‐two adolescent‐onset CUs and 21 nonusing controls (NU), completed proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, to measure hippocampal metabolite concentrations. Glutamate, NAA, and myoinositol levels were compared between CU and NU using separate analyses of covariance. CU had significantly lower myoinositol but not glutamate or NAA levels in the hippocampus compared with NU. Myoinositol levels in CU positively correlated with glutamate levels, whereas this association was absent in NU. Altered myoinositol levels may be a marker of glia dysfunction and is consistent with experimental preclinical evidence that cannabinoid‐induced glial dysfunction may underlie cannabinoid‐induced memory impairments. Future studies using appropriate imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography should investigate whether glial dysfunction associated with cannabis use underlies hippocampal dysfunction and memory impairment in CUs.
A national survey of out‐of‐hours working and fatigue in consultants in anaesthesia and paediatric intensive care in the UK and Ireland
Authors: McClelland L. , Plunkett E. , McCrossan R. , Ferguson K. , Fraser J. , Gildersleve C. , Holland J. , Lomas J. P. , Redfern N. , Pandit J. J.
Published: September 2019

The tragic death of an anaesthetic trainee driving home after a series of night shifts prompted a national survey of fatigue in trainee anaesthetists. This indicated that fatigue was widespread, with significant impact on trainees’ health and well‐being. Consultants deliver an increasing proportion of patient care resulting in long periods of continuous daytime duty and overnight on‐call work, so we wished to investigate their experience of out‐of‐hours working and the causes and impact of work‐related fatigue. We conducted a national survey of consultant anaesthetists and paediatric intensivists in the UK and Ireland between 25 June and 6 August 2018. The response rate was 46% (94% of hospitals were represented): 84% of respondents (95%CI 83.1–84.9%) contribute to a night on‐call rota with 32% (30.9–33.1%) working 1:8 or more frequently. Sleep disturbance on‐call is common: 47% (45.6–48.4%) typically receive two to three phone calls overnight, and 48% (46.6–49.4%) take 30 min or more to fall back to sleep. Only 15% (14.0–16.0%) reported always achieving 11 h of rest between their on‐call and their next clinical duty, as stipulated by the European Working Time Directive. Moreover, 24% (22.8–25.2%) stated that there is no departmental arrangement for covering scheduled clinical duties following a night on‐call if they have been in the hospital overnight. Overall, 91% (90.3–91.7%) reported work‐related fatigue with over half reporting a moderate or significantly negative impact on health, well‐being and home life. We discuss potential explanations for these results and ways to mitigate the effects of fatigue among consultants.
An International Society of Bipolar Disorders task force report: Precursors and prodromes of bipolar disorder
Authors: Faedda Gianni L. , Baldessarini Ross J. , Marangoni Ciro , Bechdolf Andreas , Berk Michael , Birmaher Boris , Conus Philippe , DelBello Melissa P. , Duffy Anne C. , Hillegers Manon H. J. , Pfennig Andrea , Post Robert M. , Preisig Martin , Ratheesh Aswin , Salvatore Paola , Tohen Mauricio , Vázquez Gustavo H. , Vieta Eduard , Yatham Lakshmi N. , Youngstrom Eric A. , Van Meter Anna , Correll Christoph U.
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To clarify the clinical features preceding the onset of bipolar disorder (BD) has become a public health priority for the prevention of high morbidity and mortality. BD remains frequently under‐ or misdiagnosed, and under‐ or mistreated, often for years.

Methods

We assessed the predictive value of precursors and prodromes of BD. We assessed precursors of first‐lifetime manic or hypomanic episodes with/without mixed features in retrospective and prospective studies. The task force evaluated and summarized separately assessments of familial risk, premorbid personality traits, retrospective, and prospective studies.

Results

Cyclothymic features, a family history of BD, retrospectively reported attenuated manic symptoms, prospectively identified subthreshold symptoms of hypomania, recurrence of depression, panic anxiety and psychotic features, have been identified as clinical precursors of BD. The prodromal symptoms like [hypo]mania often appears to be long enough to encourage early identification and timely intervention.

Conclusions

The predictive value of any risk factor identified remains largely unknown. Prospective controlled studies are urgently needed for prevention and effective treatment.
Lasting effects of repeated ∆9‐tetrahydrocannabinol vapour inhalation during adolescence in male and female rats
Authors: Nguyen Jacques D. , Creehan Kevin M. , Kerr Tony M. , Taffe Michael A.
Published: September 2019

Background and Purpose

Adolescents are regularly exposed to ∆9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) via smoking and, more recently, vaping cannabis extracts. Growing legalization of cannabis for medical and recreational purposes, combined with decreasing perceptions of harm, makes it increasingly important to determine the consequences of frequent adolescent exposure for motivated behaviour and lasting tolerance in response to THC.

Experimental Approaches

Male and female rats inhaled THC vapour, or that from the propylene glycol (PG) vehicle, twice daily for 30 min from postnatal day (PND) 35–39 and PND 42–46 using an e‐cigarette system. Thermoregulatory responses to vapour inhalation were assessed by radio‐telemetry during adolescence and from PND 86–94. Chow intake was assessed in adulthood. Blood samples were obtained from additional adolescent groups following initial THC inhalation and after 4 days of twice daily exposure. Additional groups exposed repeatedly to THC or PG during adolescence were evaluated for intravenous self‐administration of oxycodone as adults.

Key Results

Female, not male, adolescents developed tolerance to the hypothermic effects of THC inhalation in the first week of repeated exposure despite similar plasma THC levels. Each sex exhibited tolerance to THC hypothermia in adulthood after repeated adolescent THC. However, enhanced potency was found in females. Repeated THC male rats consumed more food than their PG‐treated control group, without significant bodyweight differences. Adolescent THC did not alter oxycodone self‐administration in either sex but increased fentanyl self‐administration in females.

Conclusions and Implications

Repeated THC vapour inhalation in adolescent rats has lasting consequences observable in adulthood.
Obesity and risk of differentiated thyroid cancer: A large‐scale case‐control study
Authors: He Qiao , Sun Hui , Li Fang , Liang Nan
Published: September 2019

Objective

Recently, the incidence of thyroid cancer as well as obesity has dramatically increased worldwide. Whether obesity contributes to the development of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) remains controversial. We evaluated the relationship between anthropometric measurements and DTC risk.

Design/Patients/Measurements

A large frequency‐matched case‐control study based on hospital data was performed. A total of 10 668 DTC patients and 11 858 controls were enrolled. Body mass index (BMI), body surface area (BSA) and body fat percentage (BF%) were calculated. An unconditional logistic regression model was applied.

Results

The univariate analysis showed a significant increase in DTC risk with increased height, weight, BMI, BSA and BF%. The multivariate analysis also showed a positive relationship. Based on the Chinese BMI (CN‐BMI) classification, for women of all ages, the ORs for DTC risk in overweight and obesity were 1.151 (1.037‐1277) and 1.292 (1.092‐1.528), respectively. For men under 50, the ORs were 1.221 (1.014‐1.469) and 1.520 (1.202‐1.923), respectively, but the ORs for men over 50 were not significant. Additionally, BSA showed a significant association with DTC risk for both sexes under 50 (P = .02 and P < .001). BF% remained significant only for women under 50 (P = .003). However, for both sexes over 50, neither BSA nor BF% was significantly associated with DTC risk. Based on The World Health Organization BMI (WHO‐BMI) classification, for all women and men over 50, the results were consistent with CN‐BMI. For men under 50, BF%, but not BMI, showed a significant association with DTC risk.

Conclusion

BMI, BSA and BF% were positively correlated with the risk of DTC, which was potentially affected by age and sex.
When is the Supplier's Message “Loud and Clear”? Mixed Signals from Supplier‐Induced Disruptions and the Response*
Authors: Cheng Li , Craighead Christopher W. , Wang Qiong , Li Juan Julie
Published: August 2019

Following supplier‐induced disruptions, suppliers may undertake recovery actions in hopes of reducing damage to the focal exchange with buyers. While research shows that the absence of suppliers’ recovery actions almost always leads to a deteriorated relationship, it is less clear if—or more likely when—the presence of suppliers’ recovery actions restores a relationship. Accordingly, we examine a specific set of suppliers’ recovery actions in light of important considerations—that is, disruption severity, suppliers’ dependence, and buyers’ supply chain risk uncertainty. Through the lens of signaling theory, we frame supplier‐induced disruptions as negative signals from suppliers (signalers) to buyers (receivers) and suppliers’ recovery actions as positive signals. We theorize that these mixed signals unfold in different buyers’ perceptions due to the aforementioned contextual considerations. Using the critical incident technique to capture disruption events, we find that the messages of suppliers conveyed through their recovery actions may or may not be “loud and clear,” depending on the context. In doing so, our results reveal substantive guidance for suppliers’ use of recovery actions to combat the negative perception of supplier‐induced disruptions. Likewise, the results are also promising for buying companies seeking to develop (i.e., improve) supplier performance.
Exposure and response analysis of aleglitazar on cardiovascular risk markers and safety outcomes: An analysis of the AleCardio trial
Authors: Koomen Jeroen V. , Heerspink Hiddo J. L. , Schrieks Ilse C. , Schwartz Gregory G. , Lincoff A. Michael , Nicholls Stephen J. , Svensson Anders , Wedel Hans , Weichert Arlette , Grobbee Diederick E. , Stevens Jasper
Published: August 2019

Aims

The AleCardio trial aimed to characterize the efficacy and safety of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐αγ agonist aleglitazar in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and acute coronary syndrome. The trial terminated early because of futility and safety signals. We evaluated whether the safety signals could be attributed to increased exposure to aleglitazar.

Materials and Methods

The AleCardio trial enrolled 7226 patients to receive aleglitazar 150 μg or matching placebo on top of standard care. A population pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted in a pharmacokinetic substudy to identify covariates that explained interindividual variability in exposure. Subsequently, the effect of these covariates on surrogate and clinical outcomes was assessed in the full patient population.

Results

Concomitant administration of clopidogrel was identified as a covariate that influenced the apparent clearance of aleglitazar. Patients using clopidogrel had a mean predicted area under the plasma‐concentration‐time curve (AUC0–24) of 174.7 ng h/mL (SD: ±112.9 ng h/mL) versus 142.2 ng h/mL (SD: ±92.6 ng h/mL) in patients without clopidogrel. The effect of aleglitazar compared with placebo on HbA1c, haemoglobin, serum creatinine and adiponectin was modified by concomitant clopidogrel use (P for interaction 0.007, 0.002, <0.001 and < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Concomitant use of clopidogrel was identified as a covariate that explained interindividual variability in exposure to aleglitazar. Patients using clopidogrel showed an additional lowering of HbA1c, at the expense of an additional decrease in haemoglobin, and an increase in serum creatinine and adiponectin. Clopidogrel is a moderate inhibitor of CYP2C8. Because aleglitazar is metabolized by CYP2C8, a pharmacokinetic interaction could explain differences in exposure and response to aleglitazar.
Association of total sedentary behaviour and television viewing with risk of overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes and hypertension: A dose–response meta‐analysis
Authors: Guo Chunmei , Zhou Qionggui , Zhang Dongdong , Qin Pei , Li Quanman , Tian Gang , Liu Dechen , Chen Xu , Liu Leilei , Liu Feiyan , Cheng Cheng , Qie Ranran , Han Minghui , Huang Shengbing , Wu Xiaoyan , Zhao Yang , Ren Yongcheng , Zhang Ming , Liu Yu , Hu Dongsheng
Published: August 2019

Aims

To explore the quantitative dose–response association of total sedentary behaviour and television viewing with overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes and hypertension in a meta‐analysis.

Materials and methods

We searched three databases to identify English‐language reports that assessed the association of total sedentary behaviour or television viewing with the aforementioned health outcomes. Restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate possible linear or non‐linear associations of total sedentary behaviour and television viewing with these health outcomes.

Results

We included 48 articles (58 studies) with a total of 1 071 967 participants in the meta‐analysis; 21 (six cohort and 15 cross‐sectional) studies examined the association of total sedentary behaviour with overweight/obesity, 23 (13 cohort and 10 cross‐sectional) studies examined the association with type 2 diabetes and 14 (one cohort and 13 cross‐sectional) studies examined the association with hypertension. We found linear associations between total sedentary behaviour and type 2 diabetes (Pnon‐linearity = 0.190) and hypertension (Pnon‐linearity = 0.225) and a non‐linear association between total sedentary behaviour and overweight/obesity (Pnon‐linearity = 0.003). For each 1‐h/d increase in total sedentary behaviour, the risk increased by 5% for type 2 diabetes and 4% for hypertension. We also found linear associations between television viewing and type 2 diabetes (Pnon‐linearity = 0.948) and hypertension (Pnon‐linearity = 0.679) and a non‐linear association for overweight/obesity (Pnon‐linearity = 0.007). For each 1‐h/d increase in television viewing, the risk increased by 8% for type 2 diabetes and 6% for hypertension.

Conclusions

High levels of total sedentary behaviour and television viewing were associated with overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Safety and pharmacokinetics of naringenin: A randomized, controlled, single‐ascending‐dose clinical trial
Authors: Rebello Candida J. , Beyl Robbie A. , Lertora Juan J. L. , Greenway Frank L. , Ravussin Eric , Ribnicky David M. , Poulev Alexander , Kennedy Brandon J. , Castro Hector F. , Campagna Shawn R. , Coulter Ann A. , Redman Leanne M.
Published: August 2019

Aims

To evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of naringenin in healthy adults consuming whole‐orange (Citrus sinensis) extract.

Methods and methods

In a single‐ascending‐dose randomized crossover trial, 18 adults ingested doses of 150 mg (NAR150), 300 mg (NAR300), 600 mg (NAR600) and 900 mg (NAR900) naringenin or placebo. Each dose or placebo was followed by a wash‐out period of at least 1 week. Blood safety markers were evaluated pre‐dose and 24 hours post‐dose. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded. Serum naringenin concentrations were measured before and over 24 hours following ingestion of placebo, NAR150 and NAR600. Four‐ and 24‐hour serum measurements were obtained after placebo, NAR300 and NAR900 ingestion. Data were analysed using a mixed‐effects linear model.

Results

There were no relevant AEs or changes in blood safety markers following ingestion of any of the naringenin doses. The pharmacokinetic variables were: maximal concentration: 15.76 ± 7.88 μM (NAR150) and 48.45 ± 7.88 μM (NAR600); time to peak: 3.17 ± 0.74 hours (NAR150) and 2.41 ± 0.74 hours (NAR600); area under the 24‐hour concentration–time curve: 67.61 ± 24.36 μM × h (NAR150) and 199.05 ± 24.36 μM × h (NAR600); and apparent oral clearance: 10.21 ± 2.34 L/h (NAR150) and 13.70 ± 2.34 L/h (NAR600). Naringenin half‐life was 3.0 hours (NAR150) and 2.65 hours (NAR600). After NAR300 ingestion, serum concentrations were 10.67 ± 5.74 μM (4 hours) and 0.35 ± 0.30 μM (24 hours). After NAR900 ingestion, serum concentrations were 43.11 ± 5.26 μM (4 hours) and 0.24 ± 0.30 μM (24 hours).

Conclusions

Ingestion of 150 to 900 mg doses of naringenin is safe in healthy adults, and serum concentrations are proportional to the dose administered. Since naringenin (8 μM) is effective in primary human adipocytes, ingestion of 300 mg naringenin twice/d will likely elicit a physiological effect.
Are gastric contents usually regarded as sterile?
Authors: Freeman D.
Published: August 2019

See the original case report by Monticelli, clinical commentary by Bennell and response to this correspondence by Monticelli.
Pre‐Columbian fisheries catch reconstruction for a subtropical estuary in South America
Authors: Fossile Thiago , Ferreira Jessica , da Rocha Bandeira Dione , Figuti Levy , Dias‐da‐Silva Sérgio , Hausmann Niklas , Robson Harry K. , Orton David , Colonese André Carlo
Published: August 2019

Small‐scale fisheries provide food and livelihoods for thousands of people along the Brazilian coastline. However, considerable uncertainties still surround the extent to which artisanal and subsistence fisheries contribute to the total of national landings and their historical ecological significance. Fisheries monitoring is deficient in Brazil, and historical records are limited to irregular accounts spanning the last few decades, while this coastline has supported human populations for at least 6,000 years. Here, we estimate pre‐Columbian subsistence catches for a large subtropical estuary in southern Brazil. Our results suggest that prehistoric populations may have extracted volumes of fish biomass higher than or comparable with historical subsistence fisheries in the region, and that the latter is likely underestimated. If a long‐term perspective is required to evaluate the current economic value and status of fisheries in subtropical and tropical South America, this should go beyond the historical time interval and integrate the contribution of pre‐Columbian archaeology.
Managerial ability and bond rating changes
Authors: Harper Joel , Kemper Kristopher J. , Sun Li
Published: August 2019

This study examines the relation between managerial ability and bond credit rating changes. We attempt to add to the credit rating agency literature by exploring the role managerial ability plays in the initial bond rating assignments and in rating changes. We predict firms with more‐able managers are more likely to have higher bond ratings and to be more able to have a positive influence on rating changes. We find a significant and positive relation between managerial ability and change in credit ratings, suggesting that more‐able managers can take effective actions to improve their credit ratings.
Elimination of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with haemophilia in Belgium: A single‐centre experience
Authors: Fransen Lennert , D'hondt Pauline , Bielen Rob , Van den Ende Natalie , Robaeys Geert , Peerlinck Kathelijne , Nevens Frederik
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Patients with haemophilia are one of the subgroups with a high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. They are a potential target group to eliminate HCV infection thanks to the availability of direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) therapy.

Aim

To investigate the results of DAA therapy in a cohort of patients with bleeding disorders.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted between July 2018 and April 2019. All patients born before 1990 with haemophilia, von Willebrand factor Disease, factor V deficiency, factor VII deficiency or afibrinogenemia were included in this study.

Results

Of 299 patients, 297 (99.3%) were tested for HCV antibody presence and 211 (71.0%) were positive. Of these, 205 (97.1%) were tested for HCV RNA and 153 (72.1%) were chronically infected. In total, 127 (83.0%) received antiviral therapy, and 110 (71.8%) patients were cured by antiviral treatment. The presence of cirrhosis was significantly higher in patients without a cure for HCV infection when compared to patients who achieved sustained virologic response by treatment or never infected (32.6% vs. 12.8% vs. 0%; P < .001). At the end of follow‐up in 2019, only 14 (9.1%) patients had a remaining HCV infection. Ten (71.4%) were lost to follow‐up, one (7.1%) patient refused, two (14.2%) had comorbidities and one (7.1%) will start treatment soon.

Conclusion

In this cohort, the elimination targets for HCV infection in 2030 as proposed by the World Health Organization were already reached. Nevertheless, in order to cure every patient, monitoring tools are necessary.
Catch them if you can! Do traits of individual European dragonfly species affect their detectability?
Authors: Harabiš Filip , Jakubec Pavel , Hronková Jana
Published: September 2019

Odonates are an ancient group of freshwater invertebrates that have complex life cycles and highly variable phenotypes and behaviours. These traits make odonates a very attractive model group to study various aspects and phenomena in the fields of ecology, behaviour, and evolutionary biology.

Such variability in appearance and behaviour can influence the detectability of individual species under natural conditions; and this variability in detection rates, if not statistically treated, may lead to significant distortions of results and misleading conclusions.

In the present study, we used detectability models to predict the time to detection (TTD) of individual odonate species and generalised linear mixed models to analyse the effects of morphological and behavioural traits on the TTD of the first individual of a species.

We found that only abundance had a significant effect on the TTD of both Anisoptera and Zygoptera, while the larger Anisoptera were generally detected earlier. No such patterns were observed in Zygoptera; however, dispersal ability was found to have had some influence.

Surprisingly, coloration and activity were not found to influence the TTD of odonates. Therefore, although there are considerable differences between species, with the exception of abundance and size, we did not detect any easily measurable traits that would unequivocally explain the differences in the detection rates of individual species.
Competencies for rating perceived exertion in amateur soccer players with and without intellectual disabilities
Authors: Schmitz Gerd , Meis Jakob M. , Hafferkamp Matthias , Schmitz Sabine
Published: August 2019

Background

Perception of exertion is essential for self‐regulation in sports. The ability to rate perceived exertion (RPE) is regarded as psychophysiological competence, although cognitive components of RPE are largely unknown. The present study tested the hypothesis that cognitive processing speed, perseveration and figural fluency correlate with RPE.

Methods

The present study tested relationships between the performance in neuropsychological tests and the competence for RPE assessed during soccer training in 30 adults with and 22 adults without intellectual disabilities.

Results

Mean correlation coefficients for RPE and heart rate differed significantly between participants with intellectual disabilities (r = .41) and participants without intellectual disabilities (r = .71). The variance of RPE could be partially explained by neuropsychological performance measures reflecting cognitive processing speed and perseveration and by age.

Conclusions

The results point to an impaired perception of exertion in people with intellectual disabilities, which can be partially explained by individual neuropsychological competencies.
LncRNA TNK2‐AS1 regulated ox‐LDL‐stimulated HASMC proliferation and migration via modulating VEGFA and FGF1 expression by sponging miR‐150‐5p
Authors: Cai Tianzhi , Cui Xiuzhen , Zhang Kelin , Zhang Anji , Liu Baixue , Mu Jian‐jun
Published: August 2019

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been indicated for the regulatory roles in cardiovascular diseases. This study determined the expression of lncRNA TNK2 antisense RNA 1 (TNK2‐AS1) in oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL)‐stimulated human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) and examined the mechanistic role of TNK2‐AS1 in the proliferation and migration of HASMCs. Our results demonstrated that ox‐LDL promoted HASMC proliferation and migration, and the enhanced proliferation and migration in ox‐LDL‐treated HASMCs were accompanied by the up‐regulation of TNK2‐AS1. In vitro functional studies showed that TNK2‐AS1 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation and migration of ox‐LDL‐stimulated HASMCs, while TNK2‐AS1 overexpression enhanced HASMC proliferation and migration. Additionally, TNK2‐AS1 inversely regulated miR‐150‐5p expression via acting as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), and the enhanced effects of TNK2‐AS1 overexpression on HASMC proliferation and migration were attenuated by miR‐150‐5p overexpression. Moreover, miR‐150‐5p could target the 3’ untranslated regions of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) to regulate FGF1 and VEGFA expression in HASMCs, and the inhibitory effects of miR‐150‐5p overexpression in ox‐LDL‐stimulated HASMCs were attenuated by enforced expression of VEGFA and FGF1. Enforced expression of VEGFA and FGF1 also partially restored the suppressed cell proliferation and migration induced by TNK2‐AS1 knockdown in ox‐LDL‐stimulated HASMCs, while the enhanced effects of TNK2‐AS1 overexpression on HASMC proliferation and migration were attenuated by the knockdown of VEGFA and FGF1. Collectively, our findings showed that TNK2‐AS1 exerted its action in ox‐LDL‐stimulated HASMCs via regulating VEGFA and FGF1 expression by acting as a ceRNA for miR‐150‐5p.
The bifunctional SDF‐1‐AnxA5 fusion protein protects cardiac function after myocardial infarction
Authors: Huang Fang‐Yang , Xia Tian‐Li , Li Jun‐Li , Li Chang‐Ming , Zhao Zhen‐Gang , Lei Wen‐Hua , Chen Li , Liao Yan‐Biao , Xiao Dan , Peng Yong , Wang Yun-Bing , Liu Xiao‐Jing , Chen Mao
Published: August 2019

Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) is a well‐characterized cytokine that protects heart from ischaemic injury. However, the beneficial effects of native SDF‐1, in terms of promoting myocardial repair, are limited by its low concentration in the ischaemic myocardium. Annexin V (AnxA5) can precisely detect dead cells in vivo. As massive cardiomyocytes die after MI, we hypothesize that AnxA5 can be used as an anchor to carry SDF‐1 to the ischaemic myocardium. In this study, we constructed a fusion protein consisting of SDF‐1 and AnxA5 domains. The receptor competition assay revealed that SDF‐1‐AnxA5 had high binding affinity to SDF‐1 receptor CXCR4. The treatment of SDF‐1‐AnxA5 could significantly promote phosphorylation of AKT and ERK and induce chemotactic response, angiogenesis and cell survival in vitro. The binding membrane assay and immunofluorescence revealed that AnxA5 domain had the ability to specifically recognize and bind to cells injured by hypoxia. Furthermore, SDF‐1‐AnxA5 administered via peripheral vein could accumulate at the infarcted myocardium in vivo. The treatment with SDF‐1‐AnxA5 attenuated cell apoptosis, enhanced angiogenesis, reduced infarcted size and improved cardiac function after mouse myocardial infarction. Our results suggest that the bifunctional SDF‐1‐AnxA5 can specifically bind to dead cells. The systemic administration of bifunctional SDF‐1‐AnxA5 effectively provides cardioprotection after myocardial infarction.
A double‐blind, paralleled‐arm, placebo‐controlled and randomized clinical trial of the effectiveness of probiotics as an adjunct in periodontal care
Authors: Pelekos George , Ho Sze Nga , Acharya Aneesha , Leung Wai Keung , McGrath Colman
Published: September 2019

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri as an adjunct to non‐surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).

Materials and Methods

A double‐blind, paralleled‐arm, placebo‐controlled and randomized clinical trial was conducted. Probiotics L. reuteri or placebo lozenges were randomly prescribed for use twice‐daily for 28 days. Primary outcomes were clinical attachment levels (CAL) and probing pocket depths (PPD). All participants underwent NSPT, and follow‐up clinical assessments were performed at day 90 and day 180.

Results

The trial response rate was 69.5% (41 out of 59). Among the test and control groups, there were significant intra‐group differences in primary outcomes: CAL (both, p < .001) and PPD (both, p < .001); and in secondary outcomes: percentage of sites with ‘bleeding on probing’ (both, p < .001) and visible plaque (both, p < .001). There were no statistically significant inter‐group differences in any outcomes at any time points (all, p > .05) nor in the changes in outcomes (∆) with time (all, p > .05). There was a trend of a greater magnitude of statistical change occurring among the test group compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The adjunctive use of probiotics with NSPT did not show any additional clinical effectiveness when compared to NSPT alone in the management of periodontitis (ChiCTR‐IOR‐17010526).
Identification of a compound heterozygous inactivating ABCC8 gene mutation responsible for young‐onset diabetes with exome sequencing
Authors: Matsutani Norihiko , Furuta Hiroto , Matsuno Shohei , Oku Yoshimasa , Morita Shuhei , Uraki Shinsuke , Doi Asako , Furuta Machi , Iwakura Hiroshi , Ariyasu Hiroyuki , Nishi Masahiro , Akamizu Takashi
Published: September 2019

Activating mutations in the ABCC8 gene cause diabetes and inactivating mutations usually cause hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia in infancy. Patients with hypoglycemia in infancy due to a heterozygous inactivating mutation have been reported to occasionally progress to diabetes later in life. We explored the gene responsible for diabetes in two brothers, who were suspected to have diabetes at 15 and 18 years‐of‐age, respectively, with whole exome sequencing, and identified a compound heterozygous ABCC8 gene mutation (p.Arg168Cys and p.Arg1421Cys). Although their father and mother were heterozygous carriers of the p.Arg168Cys and the p.Arg1421Cys mutation, respectively, neither parent had diabetes. These mutations have been reported to be responsible for hypoglycemia in infancy and function as an inactivating mutation. Our results suggest that the inactivating ABCC8 gene mutation is also important in the etiology of diabetes.