bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on In-Situ Synthesis Process of Ti–Al Intermetallic Compound-Reinforced Al Matrix Composites
Authors: Wan Qiong , Li Fuguo , Wang Wenjing , Hou Junhua , Cui Wanyue , Li Yongsheng
Published: June 2019

In this study, ball-milled powder of Ti and Al was used to fabricate Ti–Al intermetallic compound-reinforced Al matrix composites by an in-situ reaction in cold-pressing sintering and hot-pressing sintering processes. The detailed microstructure of the Ti–Al intermetallic compound-reinforced Al composite was characterized by optical microscopy (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). The results indicate that a typical core–shell-like structure forms in the reinforced particles. The shell is composed of a series of Ti–Al intermetallic compounds and has good bonding strength and compatibility with the Al matrix and Ti core. With cold-pressing sintering, the shell around the Ti core is closed, and the shell thickness increases as the milling time and holding time increase. With hot-pressing sintering, some radiating cracks emerge in the shell structure and provide paths for further diffusion of Ti and Al atoms. The Kirkendall effect, which is caused by the difference between the diffusion coefficients of Ti and Al, results in the formation of cavities and a reduction in density degree. When the quantity of the intermetallic compounds increases, the hardness of the composites increases and the plasticity decreases. Therefore, factors that affect the quantity of the reinforcements, such as the milling time and holding time, should be determined carefully to improve the comprehensive properties of the composites.
Highly Efficient Lithium Recovery from Pre-Synthesized Chlorine-Ion-Intercalated LiAl-Layered Double Hydroxides via a Mild Solution Chemistry Process
Authors: Sun Ying , Yun Rongping , Zang Yufeng , Pu Min , Xiang Xu
Published: June 2019

Lithium extraction from salt lake brine is critical for satisfying the increasing demand of a variety of lithium products. We report lithium recovery from pre-synthesized LiAl-layered double hydroxides (LDHs) via a mild solution reaction. Lithium ions were released from solid LiAl-LDHs to obtain a lithium-bearing solution. The LiAl-LDHs phase was gradually transformed into a predominantly Al(OH)3 phase with lithium recovery to the aqueous solution. The lithium recovery percentage and the concentration of the lithium-bearing solution were dependent on the crystallinity of LiAl-LDHs, the initial concentration of the LiAl-LDHs-1 slurry, the reaction temperature, and the reaction time. Under optimized conditions, the lithium recovery reached 86.2% and the Li+ concentration in the filtrate is 141.6 mg/L. Interestingly, no aluminum ions were detected in the filtrate after solid–liquid separation with high crystallinity LiAl-LDHs, which indicated the complete separation of lithium and aluminum in the liquid and solid phases, respectively. The 27Al NMR spectra of the solid products indicate that lithium recovery from the lattice vacancies of LiAl-LDHs affects the AlO6 coordination in an octahedral configuration of the ordered Al(OH)3 phase. The XPS O 1s spectra show that the Oad peak intensity increased and the OL peak intensity decreased with the increasing lithium recovery, which indicated that the Al-OH bond was gradually formed and the metal–oxygen–metal bond was broken.
Hydrogen Storage for Mobility: A Review
Authors: Rivard Etienne , Trudeau Michel , Zaghib Karim
Published: June 2019

Numerous reviews on hydrogen storage have previously been published. However, most of these reviews deal either exclusively with storage materials or the global hydrogen economy. This paper presents a review of hydrogen storage systems that are relevant for mobility applications. The ideal storage medium should allow high volumetric and gravimetric energy densities, quick uptake and release of fuel, operation at room temperatures and atmospheric pressure, safe use, and balanced cost-effectiveness. All current hydrogen storage technologies have significant drawbacks, including complex thermal management systems, boil-off, poor efficiency, expensive catalysts, stability issues, slow response rates, high operating pressures, low energy densities, and risks of violent and uncontrolled spontaneous reactions. While not perfect, the current leading industry standard of compressed hydrogen offers a functional solution and demonstrates a storage option for mobility compared to other technologies.
The Modified Inertial Iterative Algorithm for Solving Split Variational Inclusion Problem for Multi-Valued Quasi Nonexpansive Mappings with Some Applications
Authors: Phairatchatniyom Pawicha , Kumam Poom , Cho Yeol Je , Jirakitpuwapat Wachirapong , Sitthithakerngkiet Kanokwan
Published: June 2019

Based on the very recent work by Shehu and Agbebaku in Comput. Appl. Math. 2017, we introduce an extension of their iterative algorithm by combining it with inertial extrapolation for solving split inclusion problems and fixed point problems. Under suitable conditions, we prove that the proposed algorithm converges strongly to common elements of the solution set of the split inclusion problems and fixed point problems.
Oncolytic Vaccinia Virus Expressing Aphrocallistes vastus Lectin as a Cancer Therapeutic Agent
Authors: Wu Tao , Xiang Yulin , Liu Tingting , Wang Xue , Ren Xiaoyuan , Ye Ting , Li Gongchu
Published: June 2019

Lectins display a variety of biological functions including insecticidal, antimicrobial, as well as antitumor activities. In this report, a gene encoding Aphrocallistes vastus lectin (AVL), a C-type lectin, was inserted into an oncolytic vaccinia virus vector (oncoVV) to form a recombinant virus oncoVV-AVL, which showed significant in vitro antiproliferative activity in a variety of cancer cell lines. Further investigations revealed that oncoVV-AVL replicated faster than oncoVV significantly in cancer cells. Intracellular signaling elements including NF-κB2, NIK, as well as ERK were determined to be altered by oncoVV-AVL. Virus replication upregulated by AVL was completely dependent on ERK activity. Furthermore, in vivo studies showed that oncoVV-AVL elicited significant antitumor effect in colorectal cancer and liver cancer mouse models. Our study might provide insights into a novel way of the utilization of marine lectin AVL in oncolytic viral therapies.
Marine Natural Products from Indonesian Waters
Authors: Hanif Novriyandi , Murni Anggia , Tanaka Chiaki , Tanaka Junichi
Published: June 2019

Natural products are primal and have been a driver in the evolution of organic chemistry and ultimately in science. The chemical structures obtained from marine organisms are diverse, reflecting biodiversity of genes, species and ecosystems. Biodiversity is an extraordinary feature of life and provides benefits to humanity while promoting the importance of environment conservation. This review covers the literature on marine natural products (MNPs) discovered in Indonesian waters published from January 1970 to December 2017, and includes 732 original MNPs, 4 structures isolated for the first time but known to be synthetic entities, 34 structural revisions, 9 artifacts, and 4 proposed MNPs. Indonesian MNPs were found in 270 papers from 94 species, 106 genera, 64 families, 32 orders, 14 classes, 10 phyla, and 5 kingdoms. The emphasis is placed on the structures of organic molecules (original and revised), relevant biological activities, structure elucidation, chemical ecology aspects, biosynthesis, and bioorganic studies. Through the synthesis of past and future data, huge and partly undescribed biodiversity of marine tropical invertebrates and their importance for crucial societal benefits should greatly be appreciated.
Resistance Trends and Epidemiology of Citrobacter-Enterobacter-Serratia in Urinary Tract Infections of Inpatients and Outpatients (RECESUTI): A 10-Year Survey
Authors: Gajdács Márió , Urbán Edit
Published: June 2019

Background and objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the third most common infections in humans, representing a significant factor of morbidity, both among outpatients and inpatients. The pathogenic role of Citrobacter, Enterobacter, and Serratia species (CES bacteria) has been described in UTIs. CES bacteria present a therapeutic challenge due to the various intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms they possess. Materials and Methods: The aim of this study was to assess and compare the resistance trends and epidemiology of CES pathogens in UTIs (RECESUTI) in inpatients and outpatients during a 10-year study period. To evaluate the resistance trends of isolated strains, several antibiotics were chosen as indicator drugs based on local utilization data. 578 CES isolates were obtained from inpatients and 554 from outpatients, representing 2.57 ± 0.41% of all positive urine samples for outpatients and 3.02 ± 0.40% for inpatients. E. cloacae was the most prevalent species. Results: The ratio of resistant strains to most of the indicator drugs was higher in the inpatient group and lower in the second half of the study period. ESBL-producing isolates were detected in 0–9.75% from outpatient and 0–29.09% from inpatient samples. Conclusions: Resistance developments of CES bacteria, coupled with their intrinsic non-susceptibility to several antibiotics, severely limits the number of therapeutic alternatives, especially for outpatients.
Beta Blockers Up-Titration in Patients with Heart Failure Reduced Ejection Fraction and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy, a Single Center Study
Authors: Masarone Daniele , Verrengia Marina , Ammendola Ernesto , Gravino Rita , Valente Fabio , Vastarella Rossella , Rubino Marta , Limongelli Giuseppe , Pacileo Giuseppe
Published: June 2019

Clinical trials have shown the benefits of β-blockers therapy in patients with heart failure reduced ejection fraction. These benefits include improved survival and a reduced need for hospitalization. Cardiac resynchronization therapy has emerged as an essential device-based therapy for symptomatic patients with heart failure reduced ejection fraction despite optimal pharmacologic treatment. The extent to which β-blockers are being utilized in patients receiving cardiac resynchronization therapy is not well known. In this study, we evaluate the possibility of increasing β-blockers doses in an unselected cohort of heart failure reduced ejection patients after cardiac resynchronization therapy capable defibrillator system implantation and the correlation between β-blockers treatments and clinical outcome. Methods and results: Patients with heart failure reduced ejection fraction in β-blockers therapy that underwent cardiac resynchronization therapy capable defibrillator system implantation between July 2008, and December 2016 were enrolled in the study. The β-blockers dose was determined at the time of discharge and during follow-up. Cardiovascular mortality, hospitalization for worsening heart failure or arrhythmic storm and appropriate intervention of the device, were recorded. The study cohort included 480 patients, 289 patients (60.3%) had β-blockers doses equal to the dose before CRT (Group 1), 191 patients (39.7%) had higher β-blockers doses than those before the CRT implant (Group 2). Comparing the two groups, Group 2 have lower cardiovascular mortality, heart failure-related hospitalization, and arrhythmic events than Group 1. Conclusion: After initiating CRT, β-blockers could be safely up-titrated at higher doses with the reduction in mortality, heart failure-related hospitalization, and arrhythmic events.
Integration of Metabolomic and Other Omics Data in Population-Based Study Designs: An Epidemiological Perspective
Authors: Chu Su , Huang Mengna , Kelly Rachel , Benedetti Elisa , Siddiqui Jalal , Zeleznik Oana , Pereira Alexandre , Herrington David , Wheelock Craig , Krumsiek Jan , McGeachie Michael , Moore Steven , Kraft Peter , Mathé Ewy , Lasky-Su Jessica ,   on behalf of the Consortium of Metabolomics Studies Statistics Working Group
Published: June 2019

It is not controversial that study design considerations and challenges must be addressed when investigating the linkage between single omic measurements and human phenotypes. It follows that such considerations are just as critical, if not more so, in the context of multi-omic studies. In this review, we discuss (1) epidemiologic principles of study design, including selection of biospecimen source(s) and the implications of the timing of sample collection, in the context of a multi-omic investigation, and (2) the strengths and limitations of various techniques of data integration across multi-omic data types that may arise in population-based studies utilizing metabolomic data.
Microfluidic Cell Trapping for Single-Cell Analysis
Authors: Deng Bing , Wang Heyi , Tan Zhaoyi , Quan Yi
Published: June 2019

The single-cell capture microfluidic chip has many advantages, including low cost, high throughput, easy manufacturing, integration, non-toxicity and good stability. Because of these characteristics, the cell capture microfluidic chip is increasingly becoming an important carrier on the study of life science and pharmaceutical analysis. Important promises of single-cell analysis are the paring, fusion, disruption and analysis of intracellular components for capturing a single cell. The capture, which is based on the fluid dynamics method in the field of micro fluidic chips is an important way to achieve and realize the operations mentioned above. The aim of this study was to compare the ability of three fluid dynamics-based microfluidic chip structures to capture cells. The effects of cell growth and distribution after being captured by different structural chips and the subsequent observation and analysis of single cells on the chip were compared. It can be seen from the experimental results that the microfluidic chip structure most suitable for single-cell capture is a U-shaped structure. It enables single-cell capture as well as long-term continuous culture and the single-cell observation of captured cells. Compared to the U-shaped structure, the cells captured by the microcavity structure easily overlapped during the culture process and affected the subsequent analysis of single cells. The flow shortcut structure can also be used to capture and observe single cells, however, the shearing force of the fluid caused by the chip structure is likely to cause deformation of the cultured cells. By comparing the cell capture efficiency of the three chips, the reagent loss during the culture process and the cell growth state of the captured cells, we are provided with a theoretical support for the design of a single-cell capture microfluidic chip and a reference for the study of single-cell capture in the future.
Optimization of Solids Concentration in Iron Ore Ball Milling through Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Faria Patricia M. C. , Rajamani Raj K. , Tavares Luís M.
Published: June 2019

Important advances have been made in the last 60 years or so in the modeling of ball mills using mathematical formulas and models. One approach that has gained popularity is the population balance model, in particular, when coupled to the specific breakage rate function. The paper demonstrates the application of this methodology to optimize solids concentration in ball milling of an iron ore from Brazil. The wet grinding experiments were conducted in bench (0.25 m diameter) and pilot-scale mills (0.42 m diameter), and surveys in a full-scale industrial (5.2 m diameter) mill. It is first demonstrated that the successful application of the model required recognizing the non-normalizable nature of the breakage function of the particular ore. It is then demonstrated how the model can be used to predict results of pilot-scale grinding tests under different conditions (overflow/grate discharge) based on data from batch grinding tests. Finally, the model is used to predict the effect of changing solids concentration inside the industrial mill, with good correspondence between the pilot plant and full-scale results, which demonstrated the benefit of reducing solids concentration to values between 76 and 80% in weight for the ore of interest from the 83% that was originally used in the operation.
Critical Metals Ga, Ge and In: Experimental Evidence for Smelter Recovery Improvements
Authors: Avarmaa Katri , Klemettinen Lassi , O’Brien Hugh , Taskinen Pekka , Jokilaakso Ari
Published: June 2019

High-tech metals, including Ga, Ge and In, are critical for the performance of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). None of these three metals exist in mineable levels in natural minerals, and thus their availability and production are dependent on the primary and secondary base metals (including Zn, Al and Cu) production. To secure the supply of high-tech metals in the future, their behavior, including distribution coefficients (LCu/s = [wt% M]in copper/(wt% M)in slag), in primary and secondary processes need to be characterized. This study reports three series of copper-slag distribution experiments for Ga, Ge and In in simulated secondary copper smelting and refining process conditions (T = 1300 °C, pO2 = 10−9–10−5 atm) using a well-developed drop–quench technique followed by EPMA and LA-ICP-MS analyses. This study shows how an analytical technique more traditionally applied to the characterization of ores or minerals can also be applied to metallurgical process investigation. The LA-ICP-MS analysis was used for the first time for measuring the concentrations of these minor elements in metallurgical glasses, i.e., slags, and the results were compared to the geological literature. The distribution coefficient of indium increased as a function of decreasing oxygen partial pressure from 0.03 to 10, whereas the distribution coefficient of gallium was 0.1 at 10−9 atm and decreased as the pO2 increased. The concentrations of gallium in slags were between 0.4 and 0.6 wt% and germanium around 1 ppm. Germanium was vaporized almost entirely from the samples.
Induced Aggregation of Epoxy Polysiloxane Grafted Gelatin by Organic Solvent and Green Application
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhang Dongmei , Ma Huijun , Xu Jing , Li Tianduo , Cai Zhaoning , Chen Haifeng , Zhang Jinghui , Dong Hao
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we studied the aggregation of amphiphilic polymer epoxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS-E) grafted gelatin (PGG) in water induced by methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, acetone, tetrahydrofuran (THF), and 1,4-dioxane. The aggregation pattern of the polymer was monitored by infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. It was revealed that the aggregate morphology showed clear dependence on the solvent polarity. The PGG aggregates had regular spherical morphology in polar solvents, including water, methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, and acetone. The coating performance was evaluated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and friction experiment, and PGG and acetone coating exhibited excellent coating performance on the surface of pigskin. Gel was formed in acetone and tetrahydrofuran (THF) with the slow evaporation of solvent, and this property can possibly be applied to industrial sewage treatment. White precipitate and soft film were formed in non-polar 1,4-dioxane.
Inhibitory Antibodies Designed for Matrix Metalloproteinase Modulation
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Riedl Rainer
Published: June 2019

The family of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) consists of a set of biological targets that are involved in a multitude of severe pathogenic events such as different forms of cancers or arthritis. Modulation of the target class with small molecule drugs has not led to the anticipated success until present, as all clinical trials failed due to unacceptable side effects or a lack of therapeutic outcome. Monoclonal antibodies offer a tremendous therapeutic potential given their high target selectivity and good pharmacokinetic profiles. For the treatment of a variety of diseases there are already antibody therapies available and the number is increasing. Recently, several antibodies were developed for the selective inhibition of single MMPs that showed high potency and were therefore investigated in in vivo studies with promising results. In this review, we highlight the progress that has been achieved toward the design of inhibitory antibodies that successfully modulate MMP-9 and MMP-14.
Selective Recovery of Zinc from Metallurgical Waste Materials from Processing Zinc and Lead Ores
Authors: Hyk Wojciech , Kitka Konrad , Rudnicki Dariusz
Published: June 2019

A method for processing of metallurgical waste materials (chemically defined as sulfur-bearing zinc-ferric materials) produced by plants processing zinc ores and their concentrates is proposed. The method proposed is a combination of pyro- and hydrometallurgical treatments of the waste material. The crucial steps in the developed method include: roasting the material at 450 °C to generate sulfur dioxide (SO2), absorption of SO2 in an aqueous system to form sulfuric acid (IV), carbothermic decomposition of zinc ferrite compounds, and leaching of zinc from the roasted material using sulfuric (IV) acid. The method allows one to extract up to 40% of zinc from the waste material and, consequently, to generate a fraction of material with substantially higher content of iron oxides. The proposed method takes advantage of the presence of sulfur in the processed material which upon roasting is converted to sulfuric acid (IV)—a leaching agent for selective extraction of zinc. The properly adjusted pH of the aqueous medium in which the leaching process is carried out is the key factor determining the quantitative and selective separation of zinc. If the amount of sulfur in the processed material is insufficient, it may be supplemented by adding sulfuric acid (VI) to adjust the pH. The method proposed was tested at a laboratory scale and quarter industrial scale using the real samples taken from stockpiles in the vicinity of the plant processing zinc and lead ores in Poland. It may also work for any zinc-ferric materials from various sources.
Unveiling Signatures of Topological Phases in Open Kitaev Chains and Ladders
Authors: Maiellaro Alfonso , Romeo Francesco , Perroni Carmine Antonio , Cataudella Vittorio , Citro Roberta
Published: June 2019

In this work, the general problem of the characterization of the topological phase of an open quantum system is addressed. In particular, we study the topological properties of Kitaev chains and ladders under the perturbing effect of a current flux injected into the system using an external normal lead and derived from it via a superconducting electrode. After discussing the topological phase diagram of the isolated systems, using a scattering technique within the Bogoliubov–de Gennes formulation, we analyze the differential conductance properties of these topological devices as a function of all relevant model parameters. The relevant problem of implementing local spectroscopic measurements to characterize topological systems is also addressed by studying the system electrical response as a function of the position and the distance of the normal electrode (tip). The results show how the signatures of topological order affect the electrical response of the analyzed systems, a subset of which being robust also against the effects of a moderate amount of disorder. The analysis of the internal modes of the nanodevices demonstrates that topological protection can be lost when quantum states of an initially isolated topological system are hybridized with those of the external reservoirs. The conclusions of this work could be useful in understanding the topological phases of nanowire-based mesoscopic devices.
Quality Improvement of Few-Layers Defective Graphene from Biomass and Application for H2 Generation
Authors: He Jinbao , Anouar Aicha , Primo Ana , García Hermenegildo
Published: June 2019

Pyrolysis of filmogenic natural polymers gives rise to the formation of films of few-layers defective, undoped, and doped graphenes with low electrical conductivity (3000 to 5000 Ω/sq). For the sake of valorization of biomass wastes, it would be of interest to decrease the density of structural defects in order to increase the conductivity of the resulting few-layers graphene samples. In the present study, analytical and spectroscopic evidence is provided showing that by performing the pyrolysis at the optimal temperature (1100 °C), under a low percentage of H2, a significant decrease in the density of defects related to the presence of residual oxygen can be achieved. This improvement in the quality of the resulting few-layers defective graphene is reflected in a decrease by a factor of about 3 or 5 for alginic acid and chitosan, respectively, of the electrical resistance. Under optimal conditions, few-layers defective graphene films with a resistance of 1000 Ω /sq were achieved. The electrode made of high-quality graphene prepared at 1100 °C under Ar/H2 achieved a H2 production of 3.62 µmol with a positive applied bias of 1.1 V under LED illumination for 16 h.
Activated Carbons from Thermoplastic Precursors and Their Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Lee Hye-Min , Kim Kwan-Woo , Park Young-Kwon , An Kay-Hyeok , Park Soo-Jin , Kim Byung-Joo
Published: June 2019

In this study, low-density polyethylene (LDPE)-derived activated carbons (PE-AC) were prepared as electrode materials for an electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) by techniques of cross-linking, carbonization, and subsequent activation under various conditions. The surface morphologies and structural characteristics of the PE-AC were observed by field-emission scanning electron microscope, Cs-corrected field-emission transmission electron microscope, and X-ray diffraction analysis, respectively. The nitrogen adsorption isotherm-desorption characteristics were confirmed by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, nonlocal density functional theory, and Barrett–Joyner–Halenda equations at 77 K. The results showed that the specific surface area and total pore volume of the activated samples increased with increasing the activation time. The specific surface area, the total pore volume, and mesopore volume of the PE-AC were found to be increased finally to 1600 m2/g, 0.86 cm3/g, and 0.3 cm3/g, respectively. The PE-AC also exhibited a high mesopore volume ratio of 35%. This mesopore-rich characteristic of the activated carbon from the LDPE is considered to be originated from the cross-linking density and crystallinity of precursor polymer. The high specific surface area and mesopore volume of the PE-AC led to their excellent performance as EDLC electrodes, including a specific capacitance of 112 F/g.
Laser-Fabricated Reduced Graphene Oxide Memristors
Authors: Romero Francisco J. , Toral-Lopez Alejandro , Ohata Akiko , Morales Diego P. , Ruiz Francisco G. , Godoy Andres , Rodriguez Noel
Published: June 2019

Finding an inexpensive and scalable method for the mass production of memristors will be one of the key aspects for their implementation in end-user computing applications. Herein, we report pioneering research on the fabrication of laser-lithographed graphene oxide memristors. The devices have been surface-fabricated through a graphene oxide coating on a polyethylene terephthalate substrate followed by a localized laser-assisted photo-thermal partial reduction. When the laser fluence is appropriately tuned during the fabrication process, the devices present a characteristic pinched closed-loop in the current-voltage relation revealing the unique fingerprint of the memristive hysteresis. Combined structural and electrical experiments have been conducted to characterize the raw material and the devices that aim to establish a path for optimization. Electrical measurements have demonstrated a clear distinction between the resistive states, as well as stable memory performance, indicating the potential of laser-fabricated graphene oxide memristors in resistive switching applications.
Different and Unequal: A Qualitative Evaluation of Salient Factors Influencing Energy Intake in Adults with Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Dao Maria Carlota , Messer Ellen , Conigliaro Teresa , Sakaida Kylie , Ouellette Alexis F. , Himaras Victoria , Thiron Sophie , Roberts Susan B.
Published: June 2019

Environmental factors such as food availability and variety can function as cues for overeating in individuals susceptible to overweight or obesity, but relatively little is known about other types of environmental factors that may also be important. This qualitative study compared and contrasted categories of internal and external cues through focus groups and key informant interviews with 24 adults (26 to 77 years old) in the United States who had a body mass index within the healthy range (21.6 ± 2.5 kg/m2) or had overweight or obesity (29.1 ± 3.6 kg/m2). Five domains of external factors influencing food intake were identified: (a) Environmental cues including food availability and variety; (b) normative expectations for dietary intake; (c) food palatability; (d) overt social pressures to overeat; and (e) perceived social expectations around eating. All external domains were noted by participants with overweight or obesity to be challenging, and solutions to avoid overeating were lacking; however, overt social pressures and perceived social expectations appeared to be especially problematic. By explicitly defining different domains of external factors that challenge healthy weight regulation, this study identifies specific targets to address in interventions for healthy weight management.
Influence of Diets with Varying Essential/Nonessential Amino Acid Ratios on Mouse Lifespan
Authors: Romano Claudia , Corsetti Giovanni , Flati Vincenzo , Pasini Evasio , Picca Anna , Calvani Riccardo , Marzetti Emanuele , Dioguardi Francesco Saverio
Published: June 2019

An adequate intake of essential (EAA) and non-essential amino acids (NEAA) is crucial to preserve cell integrity and whole-body metabolism. EAA introduced with diet may be insufficient to meet the organismal needs, especially under increased physiological requirements or in pathological conditions, and may condition lifespan. We therefore examined the effects of iso-caloric and providing the same nitrogenous content diets, any diet containing different stoichiometric blends of EAA/NEAA, on mouse lifespan. Three groups of just-weaned male Balb/C mice were fed exclusively with special diets with varying EAA/NEAA ratios, ranging from 100%/0% to 0%/100%. Three additional groups of mice were fed with different diets, two based on casein as alimentary proteins, one providing the said protein, one reproducing the amino acidic composition of casein, and the third one, the control group, was fed by a standard laboratory diet. Mouse lifespan was inversely correlated with the percentage of NEAA introduced with each diet. Either limiting EAA, or exceeding NEAA, induced rapid and permanent structural modifications on muscle and adipose tissue, independently of caloric intake. These changes significantly affected food and water intake, body weight, and lifespan. Dietary intake of varying EAA/NEAA ratios induced changes in several organs and profoundly influenced murine lifespan. The balanced content of EAA provided by dietary proteins should be considered as the preferable means for “optimal” nutrition and the elevated or unbalanced intake of NEAA provided by food proteins may negatively affect the health and lifespan of mice.
Waist Circumference and Abdominal Volume Index Can Predict Metabolic Syndrome in Adolescents, but only When the Criteria of the International Diabetes Federation are Employed for the Diagnosis
Authors: Perona Javier S. , Schmidt-RioValle Jacqueline , Fernández-Aparicio Ángel , Correa-Rodríguez María , Ramírez-Vélez Robinson , González-Jiménez Emilio
Published: June 2019

We previously reported, using the diagnostic criteria of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), that waist circumference (WC) and abdominal volume index (AVI) were capable of predicting metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adolescents. This study was aimed at confirming this finding when other diagnostic criteria are used. A cross-sectional study was performed on 981 Spanish adolescents (13.2 ± 1.2 years). MetS was diagnosed by eight different criteria. Ten anthropometric indexes were calculated and receiver-operator curves (ROC) were created to determine their discriminatory capacity for MetS. Of all diagnostic criteria, the ones proposed by the IDF showed the highest mean values for weight, WC and systolic blood pressure in boys and girls with MetS, and the lowest for glucose and triglycerides in boys. ROC analysis showed that only WC, AVI and body roundness index (BRI) achieved area under the curve (AUC) values above 0.8 in boys, and that fat content, body mass index (BMI), WC, AVI, BRI and pediatric body adiposity index (BAIp) showed AUC values above 0.8 in girls. Importantly, this occurred only when diagnosis was carried out using the IDF criteria. We confirm that WC and AVI can predict MetS in adolescents but only when the IDF’s diagnostic criteria are employed.
Body Weight Variation Patterns as Predictors of Cognitive Decline over a 5 Year Follow-Up among Community-Dwelling Elderly (MAPT Study)
Authors: Giudici Kelly , Guyonnet Sophie , Rolland Yves , Vellas Bruno , de Souto Barreto Philipe , Nourhashemi Fati ,   on behalf of the MAPT/DSA Group
Published: June 2019

This study aimed to analyze associations between weight variation patterns and changes in cognitive function and hippocampal volume among non-demented, community-dwelling elderly. Sample was formed of 1394 adults >70 years (63.9% female), all volunteers from the Multidomain Alzheimer Preventive Trial (MAPT). Weight loss was defined as ≥5% of body weight decrease in the first year of follow-up; weight gain as ≥5% of weight increase; and stability if <5% weight variation. Cognition was examined by a Z-score combining four tests. Measures were assessed at baseline, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months of follow-up. Hippocampal volume was evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging in 349 subjects in the first year and at 36 months. Mixed models were performed. From the 1394 participants, 5.5% (n = 76) presented weight loss, and 9.0% (n = 125) presented weight gain. Cognitive Z-score decreased among all groups after 5 years, but decline was more pronounced among those who presented weight loss (adjusted between-group mean difference vs. stable: −0.24, 95%CI: −0.41 to −0.07; p = 0.006). After 3 years, hippocampal atrophy was observed among all groups, but no between-group differences were found. In conclusion, weight loss ≥5% in the first year predicted higher cognitive decline over a 5 year follow-up among community-dwelling elderly, independently of body mass index.
Sarcopenia is Associated with Malnutrition but Not with Systemic Inflammation in Older Persons with Advanced CKD
Authors: Vettoretti Simone , Caldiroli Lara , Armelloni Silvia , Ferrari Camilla , Cesari Matteo , Messa Piergiorgio
Published: June 2019

Background: In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), sarcopenia can be determined by a wide spectrum of risk factors. We evaluated the association of sarcopenia with nutritional, behavioral and inflammatory patterns in older patients with advanced CKD. Methods: we cross-sectionally evaluated 113 patients with CKD stages 3b-5. Sarcopenia was defined according to the EWGSOP2 criteria. We assessed: anthropometry, bioelectrical impedance analysis, physical, and psychological performance. Nutritional status was assessed using the Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS) and by verifying the eventual presence Protein Energy Wasting syndrome (PEW). Systemic inflammation was assessed by dosing: CRP, IL6, TNFα, MCP1, IL10, IL17, fetuin, IL12. Results: 24% of patients were sarcopenic. Sarcopenic individuals had lower creatinine clearance (18 ± 11 vs. 23 ± 19 mL/min; p = 0.0087) as well as lower BMI (24.8 ± 3.0 vs. 28.4 ± 5.5 Kg/m2; p < 0.0001) and a lower FTI (11.6 ± 3.9 vs. 14.4 ± 5.1 kg/m2, p = 0.023). Sarcopenic persons had higher prevalence of PEW (52 vs. 20%, p < 0.0001) and a tendency to have higher MIS (6.6 ± 6.5 vs. 4.5 ± 4.0, p = 0.09); however, they did not show any difference in systemic inflammation compared to non-sarcopenic individuals. Conclusions: CKD sarcopenic patients were more malnourished than non-sarcopenic ones, but the two groups did not show any difference in systemic inflammation.
Association of Salivary Amylase (AMY1) Gene Copy Number with Obesity in Alabama Elementary School Children
Authors: Venkatapoorna Chandra M. K. , Ayine Priscilla , Parra Emily P. , Koenigs Taylor , Phillips Megan , Babu Jeganathan R. , Sandey Maninder , Geetha Thangiah
Published: June 2019

Salivary amylase (AMY1) is the most abundant enzyme in human saliva, responsible for the hydrolysis of α-1,4 glycosidic linkages that aids in the digestion of starch. Recently studies have shown that the copy number of AMY1 is associated with obesity; however, the data varies with location. One-third of children are overweight/obese in Alabama. In this study, we aim to determine the relationship between the copy number of AMY1 gene and obesity measurements in children from Alabama. One hundred twenty-seven children aged between 6 to 10 years participated in this study. Anthropometric measurements were measured using WHO recommendations. Genomic DNA was extracted from saliva, and the copy number of the AMY1 gene was estimated by digital PCR. The association between AMY1 copy number and obesity measurements was analyzed by linear regression. The mean AMY1 copy number significantly decreased in overweight/obese (6.21 ± 1.48) compared to normal weight (7.97 ± 2.35) children. AMY1 copy number inversely associated with the obesity measurements. African Americans had a stronger association between low AMY1 copy number and obesity compared to white/European Americans. Our findings suggest that overweight/obese children have a low AMY1 copy number and the effect is more prominent in African Americans.
Bridging the Reciprocal Gap between Sleep and Fruit and Vegetable Consumption: A Review of the Evidence, Potential Mechanisms, Implications, and Directions for Future Work
Authors: Noorwali Essra , Hardie Laura , Cade Janet
Published: June 2019

A substantial burden of disease and mortality globally is attributable to both sleep disruption and low intakes of fruit and vegetable (FV) and there is increasing mechanistic and epidemiological evidence to support a reciprocal relationship between the two. This review provides an overview of experimental and observational studies assessing the relations between sleep and FV consumption from 52 human adult studies. Experimental studies are currently limited and show inconsistent results. Observational studies support a non-linear association with adults sleeping the recommended 7–9 hours/day having the highest intakes of FV. The potential mechanisms linking sleep and FV consumption are highlighted. Disrupted sleep influences FV consumption through homeostatic and non-homeostatic mechanisms. Conversely, FV consumption may influence sleep through polyphenol content via several potential pathways. Few human experimental studies have examined the effects of FV items and their polyphenols on sleep and there is a need for more studies to address this. An appreciation of the relationship between sleep and FV consumption may help optimize sleep and FV consumption and may reduce the burden of chronic diseases. This review provides implications for public health and directions for future work.
Evolutionary Dynamics in the RNA Bacteriophage Qβ Depends on the Pattern of Change in Selective Pressures
Authors: Somovilla Pilar , Manrubia Susanna , Lázaro Ester
Published: June 2019

The rate of change in selective pressures is one of the main factors that determines the likelihood that populations can adapt to stress conditions. Generally, the reduction in the population size that accompanies abrupt environmental changes makes it difficult to generate and select adaptive mutations. However, in systems with high genetic diversity, as happens in RNA viruses, mutations with beneficial effects under new conditions can already be present in the population, facilitating adaptation. In this work, we have propagated an RNA bacteriophage (Qβ) at temperatures higher than the optimum, following different patterns of change. We have determined the fitness values and the consensus sequences of all lineages throughout the evolutionary process in order to establish correspondences between fitness variations and adaptive pathways. Our results show that populations subjected to a sudden temperature change gain fitness and fix mutations faster than those subjected to gradual changes, differing also in the particular selected mutations. The life-history of populations prior to the environmental change has great importance in the dynamics of adaptation. The conclusion is that in the bacteriophage Qβ, the standing genetic diversity together with the rate of temperature change determine both the rapidity of adaptation and the followed evolutionary pathways.
Detection of Pathogenic Viruses, Pathogen Indicators, and Fecal-Source Markers within Tanker Water and Their Sources in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
Authors: Malla Bikash , Ghaju Shrestha Rajani , Tandukar Sarmila , Bhandari Dinesh , Thakali Ocean , Sherchand Jeevan B. , Haramoto Eiji
Published: June 2019

Tanker water is used extensively for drinking as well as domestic purposes in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. This study aimed to investigate water quality in terms of microbial contamination and determine sources of fecal pollution within these waters. Thirty-one samples from 17 tanker filling stations (TFSs) and 30 water tanker (WT) samples were collected during the dry and wet seasons of 2016. Escherichia coli was detected in 52% of the 31 TFS samples and even more frequently in WT samples. Of the six pathogenic viruses tested, enteroviruses, noroviruses of genogroup II (NoVs-GII), human adenoviruses (HAdVs), and group A rotaviruses were detected using quantitative PCR (qPCR) at 10, five, four, and two TFSs, respectively, whereas Aichi virus 1 and NoVs-GI were not detected at any sites. Index viruses, such as pepper mild mottle virus and tobacco mosaic virus, were detected using qPCR in 77% and 95% out of 22 samples, respectively, all of which were positive for at least one of the tested pathogenic viruses. At least one of the four human-associated markers tested (i.e., BacHum, HAdVs, and JC and BK polyomaviruses) was detected using qPCR in 39% of TFS samples. Ruminant-associated markers were detected at three stations, and pig- and chicken-associated markers were found at one station each of the suburbs. These findings indicate that water supplied by TFSs is generally of poor quality and should be improved, and proper management of WTs should be implemented.
Novel Population Pharmacokinetic Approach to Explain the Differences between Cystic Fibrosis Patients and Healthy Volunteers via Protein Binding
Authors: Shah Nirav , Bulitta Jürgen , Kinzig Martina , Landersdorfer Cornelia , Jiao Yuanyuan , Sutaria Dhruvitkumar , Tao Xun , Höhl Rainer , Holzgrabe Ulrike , Kees Frieder , Stephan Ulrich , Sörgel Fritz
Published: June 2019

The pharmacokinetics in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) has long been thought to differ considerably from that in healthy volunteers. For highly protein bound β-lactams, profound pharmacokinetic differences were observed between comparatively morbid patients with CF and healthy volunteers. These differences could be explained by body weight and body composition for β-lactams with low protein binding. This study aimed to develop a novel population modeling approach to describe the pharmacokinetic differences between both subject groups by estimating protein binding. Eight patients with CF (lean body mass [LBM]: 39.8 ± 5.4kg) and six healthy volunteers (LBM: 53.1 ± 9.5kg) received 1027.5 mg cefotiam intravenously. Plasma concentrations and amounts in urine were simultaneously modelled. Unscaled total clearance and volume of distribution were 3% smaller in patients with CF compared to those in healthy volunteers. After allometric scaling by LBM to account for body size and composition, the remaining pharmacokinetic differences were explained by estimating the unbound fraction of cefotiam in plasma. The latter was fixed to 50% in male and estimated as 54.5% in female healthy volunteers as well as 56.3% in male and 74.4% in female patients with CF. This novel approach holds promise for characterizing the pharmacokinetics in special patient populations with altered protein binding.
Current Trends and Opportunities for Competency Assessment in Pharmacy Education–A Literature Review
Authors: Croft Hayley , Gilligan Conor , Rasiah Rohan , Levett-Jones Tracy , Schneider Jennifer
Published: June 2019

An increasing emphasis on health professional competency in recent times has been matched by an increased prevalence of competency-based education models. Assessments can generate information on competence, and authentic, practice-based assessment methods are critical. Assessment reform has emerged as an academic response to the demands of the pharmacy profession and the need to equip graduates with the necessary knowledge, skills and attributes to face the challenges of the modern workforce. The objective of this review was to identify and appraise the range of assessment methods used in entry-level pharmacy education and examine current trends in health professional assessment. The initial search located 2854 articles. After screening, 36 sources were included in the review, 13 primary research studies, 12 non-experimental pharmacy research papers, and 11 standards and guidelines from the grey literature. Primary research studies were critically appraised using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI). This review identified three areas in pharmacy practice assessment which provide opportunities for expansion and improvement of assessment approaches: (1) integrated approaches to performance assessment; (2) simulation-based assessment approaches, and; (3) collection of validity evidence to support assessment decisions. Competency-based assessment shows great potential for expanded use in pharmacy, but there is a need for further research and development to ensure its appropriate and effective use.
The Discharge Companion Program: An Interprofessional Collaboration in Transitional Care Model Delivery
Authors: Bingham Jennifer , Campbell Patrick , Schussel Kate , Taylor Ann M. , Boesen Kevin , Harrington Amanda , Leal Sandra , Warholak Terri
Published: June 2019

To reduce readmission rates and avoid financial penalties from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, hospitals are seeking to implement innovative transitions of care (TOC) programs. This retrospective study evaluated the Discharge Companion Program (DCP), a pharmacist- and nurse-coordinated interprofessional, collaborative TOC program. Adult patients (18 years and older) from a single hospital, discharged with at least one qualifying diagnosis, were eligible for this service. The hospital transitional care coordinator nurse referred qualified patients to the DCP nurse coordinator, who scheduled telephonic medication therapy management (MTM) reviews with the DCP pharmacist at one- and three-weeks postdischarge. Hospital records and DCP documentation were reviewed to describe respective interventions and assess the impact on 30-day readmissions. A total of 456 patients were referred to the DCP between 31 August, 2015 and 7 September, 2016. Of the 340 patients who participated (DCP group), 44 (13%) compared to 17% (n = 20) of the usual care, were readmitted within 30-days postdischarge. The DCP pharmacists conducted 1242 clinical interventions with participants, demonstrating the benefits of an interprofessional TOC model involving multiple, pharmacist-delivered MTM intervention touchpoints within 30 days post-hospital discharge.