bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personality and Reputation: A Complex Relationship in Virtual Environments
Authors: Collodi Stefania , Panerati Sara , Imbimbo Enrico , Stefanelli Federica , Duradoni Mirko , Guazzini Andrea
Published: December 2018

Online reputational systems are nowadays widely and effectively adopted by several online platforms to support and improve peoples’ interactions and communication. Despite the research approached and modeled social dynamics of reputational systems in different domains, adopting different frameworks, the role played by psycho-social factors, and personality traits, determining the individual susceptibility to online reputation is still elusive. To study such mediation effects, we implemented a modified online version of the Ultimatum Game, in which participants (215 adolescents) played before as proposers, and then as responders, always knowing the reputation of their interactors. Furthermore, after the reception phase, participants could evaluate the received offers, giving positive or negative feedback to their proposers. Despite the participants’ belief they were playing with their schoolmates, the interactors’ role was always fulfilled by bots characterized by standardized behaviors. Our results show how psychological traits influence the participants’ behavior in all the game phases, as well as in the rating dynamics. Reputation seems to have a direct effect only in the allocation behavior, while, in regards the other dynamics of the game (i.e., acceptance and rating), it comes into play in a complex interaction with the psychological dimensions.
Gender Differences in the Impact of Cognitive Function on Health Literacy among Older Adults with Heart Failure
Authors: Lee Jong Kyung , Son Youn-Jung
Published: December 2018

Heart failure (HF)-related cognitive decline is a common condition and may be associated with health literacy. However, gender differences in this context have not been explored fully. This secondary data analysis aimed to identify gender differences in the impact of cognitive function on health literacy among older patients with HF. A total of 135 patients (75 men and 60 women) with a mean age of 73.01 ± 6.45 years were recruited. Older women with HF had higher cognitive impairment (15%) and inadequate health literacy (56.7%) compared to men. Cognitive function was the strongest predictor of health literacy in men (β = 3.668, p < 0.001) and women (β = 2.926, p = 0.004). Notably elderly women are likely to face double the burden of the influence of cognitive function on health literacy in comparison with men. It is necessary to assess cognitive function and health literacy during HF illness trajectories on a regular basis. Healthcare professionals working with patients with HF should be aware of gender differences in cognitive function and health literacy and the importance of assessing these factors.
UBC® Rapid Test—A Urinary Point-of-Care (POC) Assay for Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer with a focus on Non-Muscle Invasive High-Grade Tumors: Results of a Multicenter-Study
Authors: Ecke Thorsten H. , Weiß Sarah , Stephan Carsten , Hallmann Steffen , Arndt Christian , Barski Dimitri , Otto Thomas , Gerullis Holger
Published: December 2018

Objectives: UBC® Rapid Test measures soluble fragments of cytokeratins 8 and 18 in urine. We present results of a multicenter study using an updated version of UBC® Rapid Test in bladder cancer patients, patients with urinary bladder cancer positive history, and healthy controls. Material and Methods: In total 530 urine samples have been included in this study. Clinical urine samples were used from 242 patients with tumors of the urinary bladder (134 non-muscle-invasive low-grade tumors (NMI-LG), 48 non-muscle-invasive high-grade tumors (NMI-HG), and 60 muscle-invasive high-grade tumors (MI-HG)), 62 patients with non-evidence of disease (NED), and 226 healthy controls. Urine samples were analyzed by the UBC® Rapid point-of-care (POC) assay and evaluated by Concile Omega 100 POC Reader. All statistical analyses have been performed using R version 3.2.3. Results: Elevated levels of UBC® Rapid Test in urine are higher in patients with bladder cancer in comparison to the control group (p < 0.001). The sensitivity for the whole bladder cancer cohort was 53.3% (positive predictive value (PPV) 90.2%, negative predictive value (NPV) 65.2%) and was 38.8% (PPV 78.8%, NPV 72.1%) for non-muscle-invasive low-grade bladder cancer; 75.0% (PPV 72.0%, NPV 94.7%) for non-muscle-invasive high-grade bladder cancer and 68.3% (PPV 74.6%, NPV 91.8%) for muscle-invasive high-grade bladder cancer. The specificity for the statistical calculations was 93.8%. The cut-off value (10 µg/L) was evaluated for the whole patient cohort. The area under the curve of the quantitative UBC® Rapid Test using the optimal threshold obtained by receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was 0.774. Elevated values of UBC® Rapid Test in urine are higher in patients with high-grade bladder cancer in comparison to low-grade tumors and the healthy control group. Conclusions: UBC® Rapid Test has potential to be a clinically valuable urinary protein biomarker for detection of high-grade bladder cancer patients and could be added in the management of NMI-HG tumors. UBC® Rapid results generated in both study centers in the present multicenter study are very similar and reproducible. Furthermore UBC® Rapid Test is standardized and calibrated and thus independent of used batch of test as well as study site.
HGF/c-MET Signaling in Melanocytes and Melanoma
Authors: Czyz Malgorzata
Published: December 2018

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/ mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-MET) signaling is involved in complex cellular programs that are important for embryonic development and tissue regeneration, but its activity is also utilized by cancer cells during tumor progression. HGF and c-MET usually mediate heterotypic cell–cell interactions, such as epithelial–mesenchymal, including tumor–stroma interactions. In the skin, dermal fibroblasts are the main source of HGF. The presence of c-MET on keratinocytes is crucial for wound healing in the skin. HGF is not released by normal melanocytes, but as melanocytes express c-MET, they are receptive to HGF, which protects them from apoptosis and stimulates their proliferation and motility. Dissimilar to melanocytes, melanoma cells not only express c-MET, but also release HGF, thus activating c-MET in an autocrine manner. Stimulation of the HGF/c-MET pathways contributes to several processes that are crucial for melanoma development, such as proliferation, survival, motility, and invasiveness, including distant metastatic niche formation. HGF might be a factor in the innate and acquired resistance of melanoma to oncoprotein-targeted drugs. It is not entirely clear whether elevated serum HGF level is associated with low progression-free survival and overall survival after treatment with targeted therapies. This review focuses on the role of HGF/c-MET signaling in melanoma with some introductory information on its function in skin and melanocytes.
Comparison of Two Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) Methods for the Identification and Quantification of Porcine Retinal Protein Markers by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Schmelter Carsten , Funke Sebastian , Treml Jana , Beschnitt Anja , Perumal Natarajan , Manicam Caroline , Pfeiffer Norbert , Grus Franz H.
Published: December 2018

Proper sample preparation protocols represent a critical step for liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based proteomic study designs and influence the speed, performance and automation of high-throughput data acquisition. The main objective of this study was to compare two commercial solid-phase extraction (SPE)-based sample preparation protocols (comprising SOLAµTM HRP SPE spin plates from Thermo Fisher Scientific and ZIPTIP® C18 pipette tips from Merck Millipore) for analytical performance, reproducibility, and analysis speed. The house swine represents a promising animal model for studying human eye diseases including glaucoma and provides excellent requirements for the qualitative and quantitative MS-based comparison in terms of ocular proteomics. In total six technical replicates of two protein fractions [extracted with 0.1% dodecyl-ß-maltoside (DDM) or 1% trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)] of porcine retinal tissues were subjected to in-gel trypsin digestion and purified with both SPE-based workflows (N = 3) prior to LC-MS analysis. On average, 550 ± 70 proteins (1512 ± 199 peptides) and 305 ± 48 proteins (806 ± 144 peptides) were identified from DDM and TFA protein fractions, respectively, after ZIPTIP® C18 purification, and SOLAµTM workflow resulted in the detection of 513 ± 55 proteins (1347 ± 180 peptides) and 300 ± 33 proteins (722 ± 87 peptides), respectively (FDR < 1%). Venn diagram analysis revealed an average overlap of 65 ± 2% (DDM fraction) and 69 ± 4% (TFA fraction) in protein identifications between both SPE-based methods. Quantitative analysis of 25 glaucoma-related protein markers also showed no significant differences (P > 0.05) regarding protein recovery between both SPE methods. However, only glaucoma-associated marker MECP2 showed a significant (P = 0.02) higher abundance in ZIPTIP®-purified replicates in comparison to SOLAµTM-treated study samples. Nevertheless, this result was not confirmed in the verification experiment using in-gel trypsin digestion of recombinant MECP2 (P = 0.24). In conclusion, both SPE-based purification methods worked equally well in terms of analytical performance and reproducibility, whereas the analysis speed and the semi-automation of the SOLAµTM spin plates workflow is much more convenient in comparison to the ZIPTIP® C18 method.
Editorial for Special Issue “Plant Mitochondria”
Authors: Taylor Nicolas L.
Published: December 2018

The primary function of mitochondria is respiration, where catabolism of substrates is coupled to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis via oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos). [...]
Dark-Web Cyber Threat Intelligence: From Data to Intelligence to Prediction
Authors: Shakarian Paulo
Published: December 2018

Scientific work that leverages information about communities on the deep and dark web has opened up new angles in the field of security informatics. [...]
Reevaluating the Importance of Modified Ultrafiltration in Contemporary Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Milovanovic Vladimir , Bisenic Dejan , Mimic Branko , Ali Bilal , Cantinotti Massimiliano , Soldatovic Ivan , Vulicevic Irena , Murzi Bruno , Ilic Slobodan
Published: December 2018

Objective(s): Modified ultrafiltration has gained wide acceptance as a powerful tool against cardiopulmonary bypass morbidity in pediatric cardiac surgery. The aim of our study was to assess the importance of modified ultrafiltration within conditions of contemporary cardiopulmonary bypass characteristics. Methods: Ninety–eight patients (overall cohort) weighing less than 12 kg undergoing surgical repair with cardiopulmonary bypass were prospectively enrolled in a randomized protocol to receive modified and conventional ultrafiltration (MUF group) or just conventional ultrafiltration (non-MUF group). A special attention was paid to forty-nine neonates and infants weighing less than 5 kg (lower weight (LW) cohort). Results: Post-filtration hematocrit was significantly higher in the MUF group for both cohorts (overall cohort p = 0.001; LW cohort p = 0.04), but not at other time points. During the postoperative course, patients in the MUF group received fewer packed red blood cells, (overall cohort p = 0.01; LW cohort p = 0.07), but required more fresh frozen plasma (overall cohort p = 0.04; LW cohort p = 0.05). There was no difference between groups in hemodynamic state, chest tube output, duration of mechanical ventilation, respiratory parameters, duration of intensive care unit, and hospitalization stay. Conclusions: If conventional ultrafiltration provides adequate hemoconcentration modified ultrafiltration does not provide additional positive benefits except for reduction in blood cell transfusion, This, however, comes at the cost of needing more fresh frozen plasma. Of particular importance is that this also applies to infants with weight bellow 5 kg where modified ultrafiltration was supposed to have the greatest positive impact.
Efficient Lossless Compression of Multitemporal Hyperspectral Image Data
Authors: Shen Hongda , Jiang Zhuocheng , Pan W. David
Published: December 2018

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology has been used for various remote sensing applications due to its excellent capability of monitoring regions-of-interest over a period of time. However, the large data volume of four-dimensional multitemporal hyperspectral imagery demands massive data compression techniques. While conventional 3D hyperspectral data compression methods exploit only spatial and spectral correlations, we propose a simple yet effective predictive lossless compression algorithm that can achieve significant gains on compression efficiency, by also taking into account temporal correlations inherent in the multitemporal data. We present an information theoretic analysis to estimate potential compression performance gain with varying configurations of context vectors. Extensive simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. We also provide in-depth discussions on how to construct the context vectors in the prediction model for both multitemporal HSI and conventional 3D HSI data.
Evaluating Hole Quality in Drilling of Al 6061 Alloys
Authors: Uddin Mohammad , Basak Animesh , Pramanik Alokesh , Singh Sunpreet , Krolczyk Grzegorz M. , Prakash Chander
Published: December 2018

Hole quality in drilling is considered a precursor for reliable and secure component assembly, ensuring product integrity and functioning service life. This paper aims to evaluate the influence of the key process parameters on drilling performance. A series of drilling tests with new TiN-coated high speed steel (HSS) bits are performed, while thrust force and torque are measured with the aid of an in-house built force dynamometer. The effect of process mechanics on hole quality, e.g., dimensional accuracy, burr formation, surface finish, is evaluated in relation to drill-bit wear and chip formation mechanism. Experimental results indicate that the feedrate which dictates the uncut chip thickness and material removal rate is the most dominant factor, significantly impacting force and hole quality. For a given spindle speed range, maximum increase of axial force and torque is 44.94% and 47.65%, respectively, when feedrate increases from 0.04 mm/rev to 0.08 mm/rev. Stable, jerk-free cutting at feedrate of as low as 0.04 mm/rev is shown to result in hole dimensional error of less than 2%. A low feedrate along with high spindle speed may be preferred. The underlying tool wear mechanism and progression needs to be taken into account when drilling a large number of holes. The findings of the paper clearly signify the importance and choice of drilling parameters and provide guidelines for manufacturing industries to enhance a part’s dimensional integrity and productivity.
A Study of 3D-Printable Reinforced Composite Resin: PMMA Modified with Silver Nanoparticles Loaded Cellulose Nanocrystal
Authors: Chen Shenggui , Yang Junzhong , Jia Yong-Guang , Lu Bingheng , Ren Li
Published: December 2018

With the rapid application of light-curing 3D printing technology, the demand for high-performance polymer resins is increasing. Existing light-curable resins often have drawbacks limiting their clinical applications. This study aims to develop a new type of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) composite resins with enhanced mechanical properties, high antibacterial activities and excellent biocompatibilities. A series of reinforced composite resins were prepared by mechanically mixing PMMA with modified cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), which were coated with polydopamine and decorated by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) via Tollen reaction. The morphology of CNCs-Ag was observed by transmission electron microscopy and the formation of AgNPs on CNCs was confirmed by X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. Functional groups in PMMA-CNCs-Ag composites were verified by Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy. The mechanical assessment and scanning electron microscopy analysis suggested that the evenly distributed CNCs-AgNPs composite effectively improve mechanical properties of PMMA resin. Cytotoxicity assay and antibacterial activity tests indicated excellent biocompatibility and high antibacterial activities. Furthermore, PMMA with CNCs-AgNPs of 0.1 wt.% (PMMA-CNCs-AgNPs-0.1) possessed the most desirable mechanical properties owing to the homogeneous distribution of AgNPs throughout the resin matrix. This specific composite resin can be used as a functional dental restoration material with potential of other medical applications.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Fe-Mn-Ce Ternary Oxide–Biochar Composites as Highly Efficient Adsorbents for As(III) Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Liu Xuewei , Zhang Guogang , Lin Lina , Khan Zulqarnain Haider , Qiu Weiwen , Song Zhengguo
Published: December 2018

The widespread pollution of water bodies with arsenic (As) necessitates the development of efficient decontamination techniques. To address this issue, we herein prepare Fe-Mn-Ce ternary oxide-biochar composites (FMCBCs) using impregnation/sintering methods and examined their physicochemical properties, morphologies, and As(III) removal performances. The specific surface area of FMCBCs increased with increasing Ce content and enhanced the quantity of surface functional groups (–OH, –COOH). The adsorption of As(III) on FMCBCs was well represented by pseudo-second-order kinetics, and the As(III) adsorption capacity of the best-performing FMCBCs (8.47 mg g−1 for FMCBC3) exceeded that of BC by a factor of 2.9. At pH = 3, the amount of adsorption of As(III) by FMCBCs reached a maximum, and the increased ionic strength could enhance adsorption capacity of FMCBCs. Moreover, an As(III) removal efficiency of ~99% was observed for FMCBC3 at a dosage of 8 g L−1, which highlighted its great potential as an absorbent for As(III) removal from contaminated water.
DFT Protocol for EPR Prediction of Paramagnetic Cu(II) Complexes and Application to Protein Binding Sites
Authors: Sciortino Giuseppe , Lubinu Giuseppe , Maréchal Jean-Didier , Garribba Eugenio
Published: December 2018

With the aim to provide a general protocol to interpret electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra of paramagnetic copper(II) coordination compounds, density functional theory (DFT) calculations of spin Hamiltonian parameters g and A for fourteen Cu(II) complexes with different charges, donor sets, and geometry were carried out using ORCA software. The performance of eleven functionals was tested, and on the basis of the mean absolute percent deviation (MAPD) and standard deviation (SD), the ranking of the functionals for Az is: B3LYP > B3PW91 ~ B3P86 > PBE0 > CAM-B3LYP > TPSSh > BH and HLYP > B2PLYP > MPW1PW91 > ω-B97x-D >> M06; and for gz is: PBE0 > BH and HLYP > B2PLYP > ω-B97x-D > B3PW91~B3LYP~B3P86 > CAM-B3LYP > TPSSh~MPW1PW91 >> M06. With B3LYP the MAPD with respect to A z exp t l is 8.6% with a SD of 4.2%, while with PBE0 the MAPD with respect to g z exp t l is 2.9% with a SD of 1.1%. The results of the validation confirm the fundamental role of the second order spin-orbit contribution to Az. The computational procedure was applied to predict the values of gz and Az of the adducts formed by Cu(II) with albumin and two fragments of prion protein, 106–126 and 180–193.
Modulation of Human Complement System by Antimicrobial Peptide Arenicin-1 from Arenicola marina
Authors: Umnyakova Ekaterina S. , Gorbunov Nikolay P. , Zhakhov Alexander V. , Krenev Ilia A. , Ovchinnikova Tatiana V. , Kokryakov Vladimir N. , Berlov Mikhail N.
Published: December 2018

Antimicrobial peptides from marine invertebrates are known not only to act like cytotoxic agents, but they also can display some additional activities in mammalian organisms. In particular, these peptides can modulate the complement system as was described for tachyplesin, a peptide from the horseshoe crab. In this work, we investigated the influence on complement activation of the antimicrobial peptide arenicin-1 from the marine polychaete Arenicola marina. To study effects of arenicin on complement activation in human blood serum, we used hemolytic assays of two types, with antibody sensitized sheep erythrocytes and rabbit erythrocytes. Complement activation was also assessed, by the level of C3a production that was measured by ELISA. We found that the effect of arenicin depends on its concentration. At relatively low concentrations the peptide stimulates complement activation and lysis of target erythrocytes, whereas at higher concentrations arenicin acts as a complement inhibitor. A hypothetical mechanism of peptide action is proposed, suggesting its interaction with two complement proteins, C1q and C3. The results lead to the possibility of the development of new approaches for therapy of diseases connected with complement dysregulation, using peptide regulators derived from natural antimicrobial peptides of invertebrates.
Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity of Marine Bromotyrosine Purpurealidin I and Its Derivatives
Authors: Bhat Chinmay , Ilina Polina , Tilli Irene , Voráčová Manuela , Bruun Tanja , Barba Victoria , Hribernik Nives , Lillsunde Katja-Emilia , Mäki-Lohiluoma Eero , Rüffer Tobias , Lang Heinrich , Yli-Kauhaluoma Jari , Kiuru Paula , Tammela Päivi
Published: December 2018

The first total synthesis of the marine bromotyrosine purpurealidin I (1) using trifluoroacetoxy protection group and its dimethylated analog (29) is reported along with 16 simplified bromotyrosine derivatives lacking the tyramine moiety. Their cytotoxicity was evaluated against the human malignant melanoma cell line (A-375) and normal skin fibroblast cells (Hs27) together with 33 purpurealidin-inspired simplified amides, and the structure–activity relationships were investigated. The synthesized simplified analogs without the tyramine part retained the cytotoxic activity. Purpurealidin I (1) showed no selectivity but its simplified pyridin-2-yl derivative (36) had the best improvement in selectivity (Selectivity index 4.1). This shows that the marine bromotyrosines are promising scaffolds for developing cytotoxic agents and the full understanding of the elements of their SAR and improving the selectivity requires further optimization of simplified bromotyrosine derivatives.
Effects of Composite Supplement Containing Collagen Peptide and Ornithine on Skin Conditions and Plasma IGF-1 Levels—A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Ito Naoki , Seki Shinobu , Ueda Fumitaka
Published: December 2018

Aging-associated changes of skin conditions are a major concern for maintaining quality of life. Therefore, the improvement of skin conditions by dietary supplementation is a topic of public interest. In this study, we hypothesized that a composite supplement containing fish derived-collagen peptide and ornithine (CPO) could improve skin conditions by increasing plasma growth hormone and/or insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels. Twenty-two healthy Japanese participants were enrolled in an 8-week double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study. They were assigned to either a CPO group, who were supplemented with a drink containing CPO, or an identical placebo group. We examined skin conditions including elasticity and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), as well as plasma growth hormone and IGF-1 levels. Skin elasticity and TEWL were significantly improved in the CPO group compared with the placebo group. Furthermore, only the CPO group showed increased plasma IGF-1 levels after 8 weeks of supplementation compared with the baseline. Our results might suggest the novel possibility for the use of CPO to improve skin conditions by increasing plasma IGF-1 levels.
Microstructure and Tensile Property of the Joint of Laser-MIG Hybrid Welded Thick-Section TC4 Alloy
Authors: Su Xuan , Tao Wang , Chen Yanbin , Fu Jiyuan
Published: December 2018

In this paper, thick-section TC4 alloy was welded to itself by laser-MIG hybrid (LAMIG) welding. The microstructure of the welded joints was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results revealed that α’ and β phases were formed in the weld seam. The effects of heat input (E) on the microstructure and tensile strength of the joints were investigated. With the increase of heat input, the residence time of platelet α’ martensite in the high-temperature phase changing zone became longer and the thickness of platelet α’ martensite increased. Furthermore, the β thickness became large, and tangling dislocations were found to exist in platelet α’. In addition, the increasing heat input could cause a decrease in the tensile strength. The failed dimple pattern experienced a change from equiaxed to tearing, which was harmful to the property of the joint.
Investigation on Microstructural Evolution and Properties of an Al-Cu-Li Alloy with Mg and Zn Microalloying during Homogenization
Authors: Li Hongying , Yu Weichen , Wang Xiaoyu , Du Rong , You Wen
Published: December 2018

The microstructural evolution and properties of an Al-Cu-Li alloy with Mg and Zn microalloying (Al-3.5Cu-1.5Li-0.5Mg-0.4Zn-0.3Mn-0.12Zr-0.06Ti) ingot subjected to homogenization (second-step annealing at 500 °C for 24 h following first-step annealing at 400 °C for 8 h) were investigated. Mg-Zn atom clusters were enriched at the end of dendrites as well as low-melting eutectic phases such as S (Al2CuMg), T2 (Al6CuLi3), TB (Al7.5Cu4Li) and T1 (Al2CuLi) in the as-cast alloy. During homogenization, Mg-Zn atom clusters diffused from the segregation to the vacancies, leading to the dissolution of the low-melting eutectic phases. Not only Al3Zr particles were observed at 500 °C, but more fine and uniform spherical dispersoids appeared, which were assumed as Al3(ZrxTiyLi1−x−y). Mg and Zn microalloying can promoted the nucleation of Al3Zr and Al3(ZrxTiyLi1−x−y) dispersoids, as well as T (Al20Cu2Mn3) phases, which all inhibited recrystallization effectively and improve the uniformity of the grains due to the strong pinning effect. The yield ratio was decreased from 0.81 to 0.52 with the yield strength decreased from 172 MPa to 61 MPa, which showed better plastic deformation ability of the alloy subjected to homogenization. In addition, the dissolution of low-melting eutectic phases and formation of Al3(ZrxTiyLi1−x−y) dispersoids resulted in the significant improvement on thermal stability.
Crystallization Kinetics of 50% W Particles/Zr41.2Ti13.8Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5 Metallic Glass Matrix Composite
Authors: Su Xiaohong , Hu Huie , Kong Xiaodong , Lu Zhou
Published: December 2018

The crystallization kinetics of the 50% W particles/Zr41.2Ti13.8Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5 metallic glass matrix composite were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). The results showed that the crystallization and the glass transition of the composite both have a kinetic effect. The characteristic temperatures Tg and Tx of the composite are linearly related to the natural logarithm of the heating rate (lnφ), and the presence of W particles increases the dependence of the glass transition on the heating rate. With the addition of W particles, the viscosity of the amorphous matrix in the supercooled liquid region increases, which hinders the spread and migration of the alloy elements and causes the thermal stability of the supercooled liquid to improve. In the isothermal crystallization, the mode of nucleation and the growth process of the crystal changes with the annealing temperature. The Avrami exponent with the crystallized fraction at 698 K was about 2.5 in the middle stage of the crystallization, implying three-dimensional growth with a constant nucleation rate.
Enhancing Mechanical Response of Monolithic Magnesium Using Nano-NiTi (Nitinol) Particles
Authors: Parande Gururaj , Manakari Vyasaraj , Wakeel Saif , Kujur Milli Suchita , Gupta Manoj
Published: December 2018

The present study focuses on investigating the effects of Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) nanoparticles on the microstructure and properties of pure Mg. Mg composites containing varying weight percentages (0.5, 1, 1.5, 3) of NiTi nanoparticles were fabricated using Disintegrated Melt Deposition (DMD), followed by hot extrusion. The synthesized materials were characterized in order to investigate their physical, microstructural and mechanical properties. Synthesized materials were characterized for their density and porosity levels, microstructural characteristics, and mechanical response. Superior grain refinement was realized by the presence of NiTi nanoparticles in the magnesium matrix. The addition of NiTi nanoparticles resulted in strength property enhancements of pure Mg with minimal adverse effect on the ductility. Structure-property evaluations are detailed in the current study.
Environmental Implications of Resource Security Strategies for Critical Minerals: A Case Study of Copper in Japan
Authors: Motoori Ran , McLellan Benjamin C. , Tezuka Tetsuo
Published: December 2018

In the assessment of critical minerals, environmental impacts have been a focus of a number of methodologies. In the case of resource security for critical minerals, there are a variety of potential strategies that might be used to reduce criticality from the supply risk perspective, but the environmental consequences of these strategies need to be evaluated. Japan is a country with a heavy dependence on imported materials, and thus has examined various alternative resource supply strategies to improve resource security. This study examines these alternative strategies and evaluates the consequential environmental implications, focusing on the domestic impacts in Japan. Utilization of deep ocean mining and end-of-life home appliance recycling are examined as alternatives against the conventional, import-oriented process. From the obtained results, deep ocean mining, providing 30% of domestic copper demand with the remainder supplied from recycling, is the current optimal solution with regards to the environmental impact.
Synergistic Effects of Functional CNTs and h-BN on Enhanced Thermal Conductivity of Epoxy/Cyanate Matrix Composites
Authors: Xu Mingzhen , Lei Yangxue , Ren Dengxun , Chen Sijing , Chen Lin , Liu Xiaobo
Published: December 2018

Epoxy/cyanate resin matrix composites (AG80/CE) with improved thermal conductivity and mechanical properties were obtained with synergetic enhancement with functional carbon nanotubes (f-CNTs) and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN). AG80/CE performed as polymeric matrix and h-BN as conductivity filler which formed the main thermal conductivity channels. Small amounts of f-CNTs were introduced to repair defects in conductivity channels and networks. To confirm the synergetic enhancements, the thermal conductivity was investigated and analyzed with Agari’s model. Results indicated that with introduction of 0.5 wt% f-CNTs, the thermal conductivity coefficient (ƛ) increased to 0.745 W/mk, which is 1.38 times that of composites with just h-BN. Furthermore, the flexural strength and modulus of composites with 0.5 wt% f-CNTs were 85 MPa and 3.5 GPa. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of composites with 0.4 wt% was 285 °C and the initial decomposition temperature (T5%) was 385 °C, indicating outstanding thermal stability. The obtained h-BN/f-CNTs reinforced AG80/CE composites present great potential for packaging continuous integration and miniaturization of microelectronic devices.
Decreasing the Cholesterol Burden in Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia Children by Dietary Plant Stanol Esters
Authors: Vuorio Alpo , Kovanen Petri T.
Published: December 2018

This review covers the current knowledge about plant stanol esters as a dietary treatment option for heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (he-FH) children. The current estimation of the prevalence of he-FH is about one out of 200–250 persons. In this autosomal dominant disease, the concentration of plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is strongly elevated since birth. Quantitative coronary angiography among he-FH patients has revealed that stenosing atherosclerotic plaques start to develop in he-FH males in their twenties and in he-FH females in their thirties, and that the magnitude of the plaque burden predicts future coronary events. The cumulative exposure of coronary arteries to the lifelong LDL-C elevation can be estimated by calculating the LDL-C burden (LDL-C level × years), and it can also be used to demonstrate the usefulness of dietary stanol ester treatment. Thus, when compared with untreated he-FH patients, the LDL-C burden of using statin from the age of 10 is 15% less, and if he-FH patients starts to use dietary stanol from six years onwards and a combination of statin and dietary stanol from 10 years onwards, the LDL-C burden is 21% less compared to non-treated he-FH patients. We consider dietary stanol treatment of he-FH children as a part of the LDL-C-lowering treatment package as safe and cost-effective, and particularly applicable for the family-centered care of the entire he-FH families.
Performance of Waist-To-Height Ratio, Waist Circumference, and Body Mass Index in Discriminating Cardio-Metabolic Risk Factors in a Sample of School-Aged Mexican Children
Authors: Aguilar-Morales Ibiza , Colin-Ramirez Eloisa , Rivera-Mancía Susana , Vallejo Maite , Vázquez-Antona Clara
Published: December 2018

The most common tools used to screen for abdominal obesity are waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR); the latter may represent a more suitable tool for the general non-professional population. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of WHtR, WC, and body mass index with lipidic and non-lipidic cardio-metabolic risk factors and the prediction capability of each adiposity indicator in a sample of school-aged Mexican children. Overall, 125 children aged 6 to 12 years were analyzed. Anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary parameters were assessed. Receiving operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and univariate and multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses were performed. All the three adiposity indicators showed significant areas under the ROC curve (AURC) greater than 0.68 for high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), triglycerides, and atherogenic index of plasma, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). A significant increased risk of having LDL-c ≥ 3.4 mmol/L was observed among children with WHtR ≥ 0.5 as compared to those with WHtR < 0.5 (odds ratio, OR: 2.82; 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.75–7.68; p = 0.003). Fasting plasma glucose was not associated with any of the adiposity parameters. WHtR performed similarly to WC and z-BMI in predicting lipidic cardio-metabolic risk factors; however, a WHtR ≥ 0.5 was superior in detecting an increased risk of elevated LDL-c.
Acute Endothelial Benefits of Fat Restriction over Carbohydrate Restriction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Beyond Carbs and Fats
Authors: Barbosa-Yañez Renate Luzía , Dambeck Ulrike , Li Linna , Machann Jürgen , Kabisch Stefan , Pfeiffer Andreas F.H.
Published: December 2018

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the major cause of mortality in type 2 diabetes patients (T2DM). The causes are embedded in a complex interplay between excess body fat, insulin resistance and serum lipid anomalies. Endothelial homeostasis is strongly affected by this pathogenic network. Even though metabolic changes and weight loss improve vascular endothelial function, the effect of different dietary approaches is still uncertain for type 2 diabetes patients. Objective: We aimed to compare the acute effects of a hypocaloric very low carbohydrate (VLC) diet versus a hypocaloric low fat (LF) diet on flow mediated dilation (FMD), intrahepatic lipid (IHL) accumulation and visceral adipose tissue as independent risk factors of CVD in T2DM patients. Design: 36 T2DM patients (age 63 ± 8 years, 60% females) were randomly assigned to the VLC diet (4–10% of total energy intake (E)) or to the LF diet (<30% E) for 3 weeks. Endothelial function was assessed by the flow mediated dilation (FMD) method. Adipose tissue depots and IHL were determined by magnetic resonance. Results: Both dietary strategies reduced body weight, body fat content and IHL. Unexpectedly, the LF group experienced significantly greater enhancement of FMD, compared to the VLC group. The FMD showed a positive correlation with protein intake and fat intake in the LF group, while it revealed a negative correlation with protein intake in the VLC diet group. Conclusions: Reduction of total and hepatic adiposity was shown to be successful using either the VLC or LF hypocaloric diets, however, improvements in FMD may be related to the interplay of fat and protein intake.
Early History, Mealtime Environment, and Parental Views on Mealtime and Eating Behaviors among Children with ASD in Florida
Authors: Gray Heewon L. , Sinha Sweta , Buro Acadia W. , Robinson Chantell , Berkman Karen , Agazzi Heather , Shaffer-Hudkins Emily
Published: December 2018

This study was a cross-sectional study to examine problematic mealtime behaviors among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Florida. Forty-one parents completed a 48-item survey. The mean age of their children was 8.1 years and 73% were male. The data were divided and compared by age group: Ages 2–6, 7–11, and 12–17. Data from the 3- to 6-year-old children were extracted and compared with the references from Provost et al. (2010). There were age differences in eating difficulties at home (p = 0.013), fast food restaurants (p = 0.005), and at regular restaurants (p = 0.016). The total mealtime behavior score was significantly higher in early childhood (p < 0.001) and mid-childhood (p = 0.005) than adolescents. More parents of ages 3–6 with ASD reported difficulties with breastfeeding (p < 0.01); concerns about eating (p < 0.001); difficulties related to mealtime locations (p < 0.05), craving certain food (p < 0.05), and being picky eaters (p < 0.01) compared to typically developing children. The total mealtime behavior score was significantly higher in children with ASD than typically developing children (p < 0.001). The results indicate that early childhood interventions are warranted and further research in adolescents is needed.
Perceived Family Functioning in Relation to Energy Intake in Adolescent Girls with Loss of Control Eating
Authors: Jaramillo Manuela , Burke Natasha L. , Shomaker Lauren B. , Brady Sheila M. , Kozlosky Merel , Yanovski Jack A. , Tanofsky-Kraff Marian
Published: December 2018

Family functioning is hypothesized to influence the development, maintenance, and treatment of obesity and eating disorders. However, there are limited data examining family functioning in relation to energy intake in the laboratory among youth at high-risk for eating disorders and excess weight gain. Therefore, we examined the relationship between perceived family functioning and energy intake during a laboratory test meal designed to model a binge episode. We performed hierarchical multiple regression analyses among 108 adolescent girls in an excess weight gain prevention trial. Participants were at high-risk for eating disorders and excess weight gain due to reports of loss of control eating (LOC) and high body mass index (BMI). Participants completed the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scale III to assess family adaptability and cohesion. Following an overnight fast, girls consumed lunch from a laboratory test meal. Poorer family adaptability, but not cohesion, was associated with lower percentage of total energy intake from protein and greater percentage of total energy intake from carbohydrates. Neither adaptability nor cohesion were significantly associated with total intake. We conclude that among girls with LOC eating and high BMI, poor reported family adaptability is associated with greater consumption of obesity-promoting macronutrients during binge episodes. Directionality and temporality of this association between unhealthy consumption and family rigidity requires further study.
Thromboxane-Dependent Platelet Activation in Obese Subjects with Prediabetes or Early Type 2 Diabetes: Effects of Liraglutide- or Lifestyle Changes-Induced Weight Loss
Authors: Simeone Paola , Liani Rossella , Tripaldi Romina , Di Castelnuovo Augusto , Guagnano Maria Teresa , Tartaro Armando , Bonadonna Riccardo C. , Federico Virginia , Cipollone Francesco , Consoli Agostino , Santilli Francesca
Published: December 2018

Thromboxane (TX)-dependent platelet activation and lipid peroxidation, as reflected in vivo by the urinary excretion of 11-dehydro-TXB2 and 8-iso-prostaglandin (PG)F2α, play a key role in atherothrombosis in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) since the earlier stages. Thirty-five metformin-treated obese subjects with prediabetes or newly-diagnosed T2DM were randomized to the glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist (GLP-RA) liraglutide (1.8 mg/day) or lifestyle counseling until achieving a comparable weight loss (−7% of initial body weight), to assess whether changes in subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral (VAT) adipose tissue distribution (MRI), insulin sensitivity (Matsuda Index) and beta-cell performance (multiple sampling OGTT beta-index), with either intervention, might affect TX-dependent platelet activation, lipid peroxidation and inflammation. At baseline, Ln-8-iso-PGF2α (Beta = 0.31, p = 0.0088), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (Beta = 2.64, p = 0.0011) Ln-TNF-α (Beta = 0.58, p = 0.0075) and SAT (Beta = 0.14, p = 0.044) were significant independent predictors of 11-dehydro-TXB2. After achievement of the weight loss target, a comparable reduction in U-11-dehydro-TXB2 (between-group p = 0.679) and 8-iso-PGF-2α (p = 0.985) was observed in both arms in parallel with a comparable improvement in glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, SAT, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). In obese patients with initial impairment of glucose metabolism, the extent of platelet activation is related to systemic inflammation, isoprostane formation and degree of glycemic control and abdominal SAT. Successful weight loss, achieved with either lifestyle changes or an incretin-based therapy, is associated with a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation and platelet activation.
Influence of Parental Healthy-Eating Attitudes and Nutritional Knowledge on Nutritional Adequacy and Diet Quality among Preschoolers: The SENDO Project
Authors: Romanos-Nanclares Andrea , Zazpe Itziar , Santiago Susana , Marín Lucía , Rico-Campà Anaïs , Martín-Calvo Nerea
Published: December 2018

Parental nutrition knowledge and attitudes play a fundamental role in their children’s food knowledge. However, little is known about their influence on their children’s diet quality and micronutrient intake. Thus, we aimed to assess the association of parental nutrition knowledge and healthy-eating attitudes with their children’s adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern and micronutrient adequacy. Parental healthy-eating attitudes and knowledge of the quality of their child’s diet as well as anthropometric, lifestyle, and nutrient intake characteristics were recorded with a basal questionnaire that included a 140-item-food frequency-questionnaire. A total of 287 pre-school children were included in the analyses. Intake adequacy was defined using the Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) cut-off point method. We developed a parental nutrition knowledge and healthy-eating attitudes scores and evaluated whether they were independently associated with 1) children’s inadequate intake (probability of failing to meet ≥3 EAR) of micronutrients, using logistic regression analyses, and 2) children’s diet quality (adherence to the Mediterranean Diet according to a Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for children and adolescents, the KIDMED index), using multiple linear regression models. A higher score in the parental healthy-eating attitudes score was associated with lower risk of failing to meet ≥3 EAR compared with the reference category (odds ratio (OR): 0.3; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.12–0.95; p for trend: 0.037) and a higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet in the most adjusted model (β coefficient: 0.34; 95% CI 0.01–0.67; p for trend: 0.045). Our results suggest a positive association of parental healthy-eating attitudes with nutritional adequacy and diet quality in a sample of Spanish preschoolers. Public health strategies should focus on encouraging parental healthy-eating attitudes rather than simply educating parents on what to feed their children, recognizing the important influence of parental behavior on children’s practices.
Body Composition Changes in Weight Loss: Strategies and Supplementation for Maintaining Lean Body Mass, a Brief Review
Authors: Willoughby Darryn , Hewlings Susan , Kalman Douglas
Published: December 2018

With over two-thirds (71.6%) of the US adult population either overweight or obese, many strategies have been suggested for weight loss. While many are successful, the weight loss is often accompanied by a loss in lean body mass. This loss in lean body mass has multiple negative health implications. Therefore, weight loss strategies that protect lean body mass are of value. It is challenging to consume a significant caloric deficit while maintaining lean body mass regardless of macronutrient distribution. Therefore, the efficacy of various dietary supplements on body weight and body composition have been a topic of research interest. Chromium picolinate has been shown to improve body composition by maintaining lean body mass. In this paper we review some common weight loss strategies and dietary supplements with a focus on their impact on body composition and compare them to the effect of chromium picolinate.
Inverse Association between Organic Food Purchase and Diabetes Mellitus in US Adults
Authors: Sun Yangbo , Liu Buyun , Du Yang , Snetselaar Linda G. , Sun Qi , Hu Frank B. , Bao Wei
Published: December 2018

Background: The organic food market has grown rapidly worldwide in the past 15 years. However, evidence concerning the health effects of organic foods is scarce. We evaluated the cross-sectional association of organic food purchase, as a proxy of organic food consumption, with diabetes in a nationally representative population. Methods: We included 8199 participants aged ≥20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2008 and 2009–2010. Organic food purchase and frequency were ascertained by questionnaires. Diabetes was defined as a self-reported physician diagnosis or a hemoglobin A1c level ≥6.5% or both. We used logistic regression with sample weights to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Individuals who reported purchasing organic foods were less likely to have diabetes compared to those who did not report organic food purchase. After adjustment for age, gender, race/ethnicity, family history of diabetes, socioeconomic status, and dietary and lifestyle factors, the OR of diabetes associated with organic food purchase was 0.80 (95% CI 0.68–0.93). The association remained significant after additional adjustment for BMI with OR of 0.80 (0.69–0.94). Conclusions: In a nationally representative population, frequent organic food purchase was inversely associated with diabetes prevalence in adults in the United States.