Efficacy of a meal replacement diet plan compared to a food-based diet plan after a period of weight loss and weight maintenance: a randomized controlled trial

Background  

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. It is implicated in the development of a variety of chronic disease states and is associated with increased levels of inflammation and oxidative stress. The objective of this study is to examine the effect of Medifast's meal replacement program (MD) on body weight, body composition, and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress among obese individuals following a period of weight loss and weight maintenance compared to a an isocaloric, food-based diet (FB).     

Spanish Ketogenic Mediterranean diet: a healthy cardiovascular diet for weight loss

Background

Self-reports of dietary intake in the context of nutrition intervention research can be biased by the tendency of respondents to answer consistent with expected norms (social approval bias). The objective of this study was to assess the potential influence of social approval bias on self-reports of fruit and vegetable intake obtained using both food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and 24-hour recall methods.

Methods

A randomized blinded trial compared reported fruit and vegetable intake among subjects exposed to a potentially biasing prompt to that from control subjects. Subjects included 163 women residing in Colorado between 35 and 65 years of age who were randomly selected and recruited by telephone to complete what they were told would be a future telephone survey about health. Randomly half of the subjects then received a letter prior to the interview describing this as a study of fruit and vegetable intake. The letter included a brief statement of the benefits of fruits and vegetables, a 5-A-Day sticker, and a 5-a-Day refrigerator magnet. The remainder received the same letter, but describing the study purpose only as a more general nutrition survey, with neither the fruit and vegetable message nor the 5-A-Day materials. Subjects were then interviewed on the telephone within 10 days following the letters using an eight-item FFQ and a limited 24-hour recall to estimate fruit and vegetable intake. All interviewers were blinded to the treatment condition.

Results

By the FFQ method, subjects who viewed the potentially biasing prompts reported consuming more fruits and vegetables than did control subjects (5.2 vs. 3.7 servings per day, p < 0.001). By the 24-hour recall method, 61% of the intervention group but only 32% of the control reported eating fruits and vegetables on 3 or more occasions the prior day (p = 0.002). These associations were independent of age, race/ethnicity, education level, self-perceived health status, and time since last medical check-up.

Conclusion

Self-reports of fruit and vegetable intake using either a food frequency questionnaire or a limited 24-hour recall are both susceptible to substantial social approval bias. Valid assessments of intervention effects in nutritional intervention trials may require objective measures of dietary change.     

Comparison of a low carbohydrate and low fat diet for weight maintenance in overweight or obese adults enrolled in a clinical weight management program

Background  

Recent evidence suggests that a low carbohydrate (LC) diet may be equally or more effective for short-term weight loss than a traditional low fat (LF) diet; however, less is known about how they compare for weight maintenance. The purpose of this study was to compare body weight (BW) for participants in a clinical weight management program, consuming a LC or LF weight maintenance diet for 6 months following weight loss.     

Improved alignment of weakly homologous protein sequences using structural information

Protein sequence alignments can be unproved when at least oneof the proteins to be aligned has a known 3-D structure. Inthis work, geometrical constraints extracted from the targetfold are evaluated in independent units that deal with complementarystructural features. This information is used to set up mutationtables specific to the locally observed structural environments.The resulting partial evaluations are then combined linearlyinto a global function which is optimized by dynamic programming.Eventually, a score based on tertiary interactions can be usedas a selection criterion to discriminate among a set of suboptimalalignments. The relevance of the scores given by each unit istested on a representative set of protein families. Finally,a method for combining the different scores is described andits efficiency is evaluated on a few pairs of weakly homologousproteins.     

Preparation of polyethylene with controlled bimodal molecular weight distribution using zirconium complexes

Four zirconium complexes containing fully deprotonated 2-(2H-benzo[d][1,2,3]triazol-2-yl)-4,6-di-tert-pentylphenol were used as catalysts for the polymerization of ethylene. In the presence of methylalumoxane (MAO) as a cocatalyst, the precursors were highly active for polyethylene with bimodal or multimodal molecular weight distribution.     

Impact of the hypocaloric diet using food substitutes on the body weight and biochemical profile

Recent studies using balanced hypocaloric diets with food substitutes in some meals, have presented positive results. There are no studies with the Brazilian population on the efficacy of using food substitute, together with a hypocaloric diet. Main objective of this study was to verify the effects of a hypocaloric diet using food substitutes as meal replacement on the body weight, lipid profile, and glucose and insulin plasma levels. Seventy eight subjects of both genders were selected, 20-50 years old, and a body weight index between 25 kg/m2 and 35 kg/m2. The study lasted for six months and it was divided in 2 phases of three months each- mass reduction for 3 months and 3 months for maintenance. The sample was randomly divided in two groups: Group A (control- 3 months of general nutritional and physical orientation followed by 3 months with 1 meal replacement) and Group B (intervention- 2 meals replacement a day plus nutritional and physical orientation for 3 months followed by 3 months with 1 meal replacement). Anthropometric measurements, percent body fat (%BF), biochemical profile and intake survey were performed at moments 0, 3 and 6 months. Both groups showed a significant decrease in %BF, weight, and consequently in their BMI, in the third and sixth month of follow up. However, weight loss in group B was higher than in group A. At the end of the treatment, 0 and 25.0% of the patients of the group A and B, respectively, presented a weight loss higher than 10% of the initial weight. Comparing the triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol and glucose levels, between the beginning and after the three and six months of treatment, there was a significant reduction in the individuals only in group B. In conclusion, the use of food substitutes as meal replacement, together with a balanced, hypocaloric diet, proved to be efficient in weight loss for Brazilian overweighed individuals.     

Improved electro-assisted removal of phosphates and nitrates using mesoporous carbon aerogels with controlled porosity

Three-activated carbon aerogels were synthesized by CO₂ activation of the materials prepared by the polycondensation of resorcinol and formaldehyde mixtures followed by supercritical drying. The obtained carbon aerogels were characterized and used as electrode materials for the electrosorption of sodium phosphate and nitrate. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy showed the dependence of the structural ordering of the aerogels with the resorcinol/catalyst ratio and the extent of activation. The electrosorption capacitance evaluated by cyclic voltammetry revealed large values for the activated samples containing a large contribution of mesopores, regardless the electrolyte salt. Due to an adequate combination of chemical and porous features, the desalting capacity of the activated carbon aerogel electrodes exceeded that of the as-prepared materials. The evaluation of the kinetic properties by chronocoulometric relaxation and impedance spectroscopy showed a decrease of time constant and resistances for highly mesoporous activated samples. A high deionization capacity and fast electrode discharge was detected for the deionization of sodium nitrate on the highly mesoporous activated aerogel. Data also showed the efficient electrosorption of ionic species on consecutive charge/discharge cycles, confirming the stability of the aerogel electrodes at the high applied potentials.     

以过程管理为核心规划设计项目施工管理信息系统

通过简要分析国内石化系统项目施工管理计算机应用现状 ,论述了科学规划项目施工管理信息系统的必要性。结合多年的开发应用实践 ,从管理角度出发 ,提出了以过程管理为核心 ,构建项目施工管理信息系统的思路 ,设计了比较具体的系统模型 ,并对过程管理系统设计方法、实现思路提出了自己的见解     

A hybrid approach to global optimization using a clustering algorithm in a genetic search framework

The concern of this work is global optimization using genetic algorithms (GAs). In this work we propose a synergy between the cluster analysis technique, popular in classical stochastic global optimization, and the GA to accomplish global optimization. This synergy minimizes redundant searches around local optima and enhances the capability of the GA to explore new areas in the search space. The proposed methodology demonstrates superior performance when compared with the simple GA on benchmark cases. We also report our solution of the optimal pumps configuration synthesis problem.     

Detection and management of actuator faults in controlled particulate processes using population balance models

This paper presents a methodology for the design of an integrated fault detection and fault-tolerant control (FD-FTC) architecture for particulate processes described by population balance models (PBMs) with control constraints, actuator faults and a limited number of process measurements. The architecture integrates model-based fault detection, state estimation, nonlinear feedback and supervisory control on the basis of an appropriate reduced-order model that captures the dominant dynamics of the process and is obtained through application of the method of weighted residuals. The architecture comprises a family of control configurations together with a fault detection filter and a supervisor. For each configuration, a stabilizing output feedback controller with well-characterized stability properties is designed through the combination of a state feedback controller and a state observer that uses the available measurements of principal moments of the particle size distribution (PSD) and the continuous-phase variables to provide appropriate state estimates. A fault detection filter that simulates the behavior of the fault-free, reduced-order model is designed, and its discrepancy from the behavior of the actual process state estimates is used as a residual for fault detection. Finally, a switching law based on the stability regions of the constituent control configurations is derived to reconfigure the control system in a way that preserves closed-loop stability in the event of fault detection. Appropriate fault detection thresholds and control reconfiguration criteria that account for model reduction and state estimation errors are derived for the implementation of the FD-FTC architecture on the particulate process. Finally, the methodology is applied to the problem of constrained, actuator fault-tolerant stabilization of an unstable steady-state of a continuous crystallizer.     

运输管理信息系统的设计与开发

针对内蒙平庄矿务局运输部的现状及其发展规划，开发了微机管理信息系统。文中介绍了该系统的流程图、系统设计和程序设计等。该管理信息系统自运行以来，取得了令人满意的效果。     

The inclusion of a partial meal replacement with or without inulin to a calorie restricted diet contributes to reach recommended intakes of micronutrients and decrease plasma triglycerides: A randomized clinical trial in obese Mexican women

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: Obesity is a major public health problem in many poor countries where micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent. A partial meal replacement may be an effective strategy to decrease obesity and increase micronutrient intake in such populations. The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of a partial meal replacement with and without inulin on weight reduction, blood lipids and micronutrients intake in obese Mexican women. METHODS: In a randomized controlled clinical trial 144 women (18-50 y) with BMI [greater than or equal to] 25 kg/m2, were allocated into one of the following treatments during 3 months: 1) Two doses/d of a partial meal replacement (PMR), 2) Two doses/d of PMR with inulin (PMR + I) , 3) Two doses/d of 5 g of inulin (INU) and 4) Control group (CON). All groups received a low calorie diet (LCD). Weight, height, hip and waist circumference were measured every 2 weeks and body composition, lipids and glucose concentration and nutrient intake were assessed at baseline and after 3 months. RESULTS: All groups significantly reduced weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference. Differences between groups were only observed in BMI and weight adjusted changes: At 45 days PMR group lost more weight than INU and CON groups by 0.9 and 1.2Kg, respectively. At 60 days, PMR + I and PMR groups lost more weight than in INU by 0.7 and 1Kg, respectively. Subjects in PMR, PMR + I and INU significantly decreased triglycerides. Energy intake was reduced in all groups. Fiber intake increased in PMR + I and INU groups. Some minerals and vitamins intakes were higher in PMR and PMR + I compared with INU and CON groups. CONCLUSION: Inclusion of PMR with and without inulin to a LCD had no additional effect on weight reduction than a LCD alone but reduced triglycerides and improved intake of micronutrients during caloric restriction. PMR could be a good alternative for obese populations with micronutrient deficiencies. ClinicalTrials.Gov ID NCT01505023.     

露天矿测量微机管理信息系统

从露天矿的数据采集、原始数据加工与整理、数据库管理程序的建立，以及测量图的绘制等方面，简要介绍了微机在露天矿测量中的应用。     

选煤厂信息化管理的建设与应用

田庄选煤厂于2002年建成了选煤厂信息化管理局域网,投入使用一年多来,现在已成为日常管理中不可缺少的部分。全厂的调度管理、生产管理及设备管理均实现了信息化,各种数据信息均可从局域网上获得,实现了信息共享,工作效率提高,为企业今后的更快发展打下了良好的基础。     

Synthesis of meso-macro alumina using yeast cells as a bio-template and optimization using a genetic algorithm

Meso-Macro porous alumina was fabricated using yeast cells as a pore-forming agent. Alumina powder synthesis was achieved by a low cost process (recrystallisation of alum).The effect of the pore forming agent on the true porosity, bulk density and thermal conductivity of porous alumina was characterized. The results show that the true porosity increased with the increasi ng addition of yeast cells. The bulk density and thermal conductivity at room temperature decreased with the increasing yeast addition. A genetic algorithm method was used to minimize the thermal conductivity of the macro-porous alumina based on the amount of yeast cells used, the sintering temperature, and the hold time. The genetic algorithm found that the best thermal conductivity achievable was equal to 0.152 Watt/m. °C at 20wt% concentration of yeast, a sintering temperature of 1230°C and 1.5 hours of soaking time. The experimental value was 0.14 Watt/m. °C and the slight variance between these values were postulated to be due to experimental error in the measurements.     

Prediction of molecular weight scale and molecular weight distribution of cellulose using a rheology‐based method

Prediction of MW scale and MWD of cellulose by means of a rheology‐based method is developed. In this method, for the cellulose/NMMO·H₂O solution, it is assumed that the cellulose MW values calculated by the Rouse terminal relaxation time can be regarded as the peak MW on the MWD curves of cellulose. Consequently, it is realized that the reciprocal of the frequency is converted to the MW scale, obtaining MWD scale curves of cellulose. Meanwhile, the obtained results are compared with those measured by the GPC method. The comparison shows that the calculated peak MW values are approximately equal, the calculated PDI values and MWD curves have the same trends. Consequently, it may be feasible to compare the MW scale and MWD of cellulose by using the rheology‐based method. In addition, the rheology‐based method is simple and fast. Therefore, it is a useful and easy way to analyze the MW scale and MWD of cellulose in the fiber industry. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 48:102–106, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers     

The continuous synthesis of addition polymers with a pricesely controlled average molecular weight and minimum polydispersity

A novel technique for the control of continuous synthesis of addition polymers with precisely controlled average molecular weight and minimum polydispersity has been developed. A control system adjusts the concentration of chain-transfer agent in the reactor feed to compensate for all other upsets, in the reactor inputs: initiator and monomer concentrations, temperature and feed rate. The technique has been evaluated quantitatively on a digital computer using a kinetic model of homogeneous, free-radical solution polymerization. In computational tests, the modeled control system generally held the instantaneous number-average chain length within 1%, and quickly returned it to the desired value in response to a wide variety of upsets. By generalizing the Schulz distributions to include termination by disproportionation, combination and chain-transfer, it is shown that changes in the molecular-weight distribution resulting from the action of the control system are minor.