bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the characteristics of ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ Red Sea Trough over the Eastern Mediterranean in CMIP5 climate projections
Authors: Hochman Assaf , Rostkier-Edelstein Dorita , Kunin Pavel , Pinto Joaquim G.
Published: November 2020

The Eastern Mediterranean resides on the border between the temperate and semi-arid and arid climate zones, and is thus influenced by both mid-latitude and sub-tropical weather systems. Precipitation and extreme weather in this region are mainly associated with either Cyprus Lows or the “wet” Red Sea Troughs. Current regional climate projections indicate that the region may become warmer and drier in future decades. Here, we analyze the influence of enhanced greenhouse gas forcing on the climatological properties of the ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ Red Sea Trough (WRST & DRST, respectively). With this aim, a regional synoptic classification and a downscaling algorithm based on past analogs are applied to eighteen rain stations over the main ground water basins in Israel. The algorithms are applied to the NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data for 1986–2005 and to eight CMIP5 model simulations for the historical (1986–2005) and end of the century (2081–2100) climate conditions according to the RCP8.5 scenario. For the historical period, the CMIP5 models are largely able to represent the characteristics of the Red Sea Trough. Based on the multi-model mean, significant changes are found for WRST and DRST for the late XXI Century. First, an increase in the meridional pressure gradient is found for both the WRST and the DRST, implying stronger horizontal winds. Furthermore, a significant decrease in the occurrence of the WRST (− 20%) and a significant increase in the frequency of the DRST (+ 19%) are identified. Accordingly, the persistence of the WRST decreases (− 9%), while for DRST increases (+ 9%). The decline in the frequency of WRST occurs primarily in the transition seasons, while the increase for DRST is found throughout the wet season. In total, the daily rainfall associated with the WRST system is projected to significantly decline (− 37%) by the end of the XXI century. These results document the projected changes in a dominant synoptic system in this area, which can facilitate a better estimation of the arising challenges, e.g., related to shortage of water resources and associated political unrest, reduced agricultural potential, and increased air pollution and forest fires. Such a pathway can ultimately foster novel mitigation strategies for water resources management and regional climate change adaptation.
Efficacy of interleukin-1 blockade in Schnitzler’s syndrome without detectable monoclonal gammopathy: a case-based review
Authors: Bixio Riccardo , Rossini Maurizio , Giollo Alessandro
Published: November 2020

Schnitzler’s syndrome (SchS) is a rare autoinflammatory disorder characterized by urticarial rash and monoclonal gammopathy which is currently regarded as IL-1 mediated disease. We present the case of a 21-year-old woman presenting with urticarial rash, arthralgias, and elevated inflammatory markers. She has been suffering these symptoms for 2 years and was treated with antihistamines, omalizumab, steroids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without success. After an extensive diagnostic workout, we suspected SchS even without monoclonal gammopathy, and started Anakinra 100 mg daily with a dramatic response and achieving complete remission after 48 h of the beginning of the treatment, so we decided to confirm SchS diagnosis. We performed a search of the literature and found seven more cases of patients diagnosed with SchS without monoclonal gammopathy at the presentation. Five were treated with IL-1 blocking therapies and all achieved remission. We, therefore, prompt the possible role of IL-1 blockade therapy remission as support in diagnosing SchS without monoclonal gammopathy.
Approximation of PDE eigenvalue problems involving parameter dependent matrices
Authors: Boffi Daniele , Gardini Francesca , Gastaldi Lucia
Published: November 2020

We discuss the solution of eigenvalue problems associated with partial differential equations that can be written in the generalized form $${\mathsf {A}}x=\lambda {\mathsf {B}}x$$

A
x
=
λ
B
x

, where the matrices $${\mathsf {A}}$$
A
and/or $${\mathsf {B}}$$
B
may depend on a scalar parameter. Parameter dependent matrices occur frequently when stabilized formulations are used for the numerical approximation of partial differential equations. With the help of classical numerical examples we show that the presence of one (or both) parameters can produce unexpected results.
Returning to periscope depth in a circular control room configuration
Authors: Stanton Neville A. , Roberts Aaron P. J. , Pope Kiome A. , Fay Daniel
Published: November 2020

Previous research has shown that co-location of operators dependent on each other for task-relevant information can relieve the previously identified bottleneck of information between the Sonar Control (SOC) and Operations Officer (OPSO) in submarine sound and control rooms. This research aimed to examine the impact of a novel inwards facing circular configuration on communications and tasks within a co-located control room. Ten teams participated in high and low demand Return to Periscope Depth scenarios in a simulated submarine control room. All communications between operators were recorded and compared with a baseline study of contemporary operation. The findings show that the novel circular configuration led to a reduction in communications, but an increase in information shared. Indicating that the teams had become more efficient at passing relevant information. Furthermore, teams were able to complete a greater number of tasks.
Dynamics of river plumes in the South Brazilian Bight and South Brazil
Authors: Marta-Almeida Martinho , Dalbosco Anna , Franco David , Ruiz-Villarreal Manuel
Published: November 2020

The plumes from the rivers of the South Brazilian Bight (SBB) and South Brazil (SB) were studied using a realistic model configuration. River plume variability on continental shelves is driven by the input of river runoff into the shelf, by wind variability, and also by ambient currents and its seasonal variability, especially the Brazil Current, which are realistically modelled in this study. It is presented a simulation of 4 years using a nested configuration, which allows resolving the region around Florianópolis with very high resolution (∼150 m). The dispersion of river plumes was assessed not only with the hydrodynamical model results but also by using passive tracers whose dynamics was analyzed seasonally. Several dyes were released together with the river discharges. This approach allowed calculating the depths of the riverine freshwater, and the resulting regions affected by the plumes. Northward intrusions of waters from the southern region, under the potential influence of the distant La Plata river plume, were evaluated with a Lagrangian approach. The local river plumes are confined to the inner shelf, except south of 30°S where discharges from Lagoa dos Patos disperse over the shelf in the spring and summer. The Brazil Current flowing southward over the slope prevents the river plumes from interaction with oceanic mesoscale dynamics. The river plumes are, thus, mainly controlled by the wind forcing. The plumes from SBB are able to disperse until SB following the southward wind regime typical of the summer. And both the SB and La Plata river plumes are also able to reach SBB, forced by the northward wind typical of the winter season, until the latitude of 25.5°S. A low salinity belt (below 35) is present along the coastal region of SB and SBB year-round, supported by contributions from both the large and small rivers. The interaction between the different plumes influences the dispersion patterns, shielding the Florianṕolis coastal region from plumes of distant rivers, and dispersing the plume of SBB rivers away from Santa Catarina Island as it disperses southward during the summer months.
Rapid CT-based Estimation of Articular Cartilage Biomechanics in the Knee Joint Without Cartilage Segmentation
Authors: Mohammadi Ali , Myller Katariina A. H. , Tanska Petri , Hirvasniemi Jukka , Saarakkala Simo , Töyräs Juha , Korhonen Rami K. , Mononen Mika E.
Published: November 2020

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful joint disease, causing disabilities in daily activities. However, there is no known cure for OA, and the best treatment strategy might be prevention. Finite element (FE) modeling has demonstrated potential for evaluating personalized risks for the progression of OA. Current FE modeling approaches use primarily magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to construct personalized knee joint models. However, MRI is expensive and has lower resolution than computed tomography (CT). In this study, we extend a previously presented atlas-based FE modeling framework for automatic model generation and simulation of knee joint tissue responses using contrast agent-free CT. In this method, based on certain anatomical dimensions measured from bone surfaces, an optimal template is selected and scaled to generate a personalized FE model. We compared the simulated tissue responses of the CT-based models with those of the MRI-based models. We show that the CT-based models are capable of producing similar tensile stresses, fibril strains, and fluid pressures of knee joint cartilage compared to those of the MRI-based models. This study provides a new methodology for the analysis of knee joint and cartilage mechanics based on measurement of bone dimensions from native CT scans.
Analytical solution for the stress field of hierarchical defects: multiscale framework and applications
Authors: Wu Baijian , Zhou Sheng , Li Zhaoxia
Published: November 2020

Hierarchical defects are defined as adjacent defects at different length scales. Involved are the two scales where the stress field distribution is interrelated. Based on the complex variable method and conformal mapping, a multiscale framework for solving the problems of hierarchical defects is formulated. The separated representations of mapping function, the governing equations of potentials, and the stress field are subsequently obtained. The proposed multiscale framework can be used to solve a variety of simplified engineering problems. The case in point is the analytical solution of a macroscopic elliptic hole with a microscopic circular edge defect. The results indicate that the microscopic defect aggregates the stress concentration on the macroscopic defect and likely leads to global propagation and rupture. Multiple micro-defects have interactive effects on the distribution of the stress field. The level of stress concentration may be reduced by the coalescence of micro-defects. This work provides a unified method to analytically investigate the influence of edge micro-defects within the scope of multiscale hierarchy. The formulated multiscale approach can also be potentially applied to materials with hierarchical defects, such as additive manufacturing and bio-inspired materials.
Transferrin improved the generation of cardiomyocyte from human pluripotent stem cells for myocardial infarction repair
Authors: Zhang Fengzhi , Qiu Hui , Dong Xiaohui , Wang Chunlan , Na Jie , Zhou Jin , Wang Changyong
Published: November 2020

Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes (CMs) hold great promise for the repair of the injured heart, but optimal cell production in a fully chemically defined and cost-effective system is essential for the efficacy and safety of cell transplantation therapies. In this study, we provided a simple and efficient strategy for cardiac differentiation from hPSCs and performed functional evaluation in a rat model of myocardial infarction. Using a chemically defined medium including four components, recombinant human albumin, ascorbic acid, human transferrin, and RPMI 1640, we developed a manageable and cost-effective protocol for robust generation of CMs from hPSCs. Interestingly, the addition of transferrin helped hPSCs to transit from TeSR-E8 medium to the simple cardiac differentiation medium and successfully initiated mesoderm differentiation without significant cell death. The CM generation efficiency was up to 85% based on cTnT expression. We performed transcriptome profiling from differentiation day 0 to 35, and characterized interesting dynamic change of cardiac genes. CMs derived from transferrin-supplemented simple medium have similar transcriptome and the maturation level compared to those generated in B27 minus insulin medium as well as their in vivo counterparts. Importantly, after transplantation, hPSC-derived CMs survived in the infarcted rat heart, significantly improved the physiological function and reduced fibrosis. Our study offers an easy-to-use and cost-effective method for cardiac differentiation and facilitates the translational application of hPSC-derived CMs for heart repair.
Closing the gap in linear bilevel optimization: a new valid primal-dual inequality
Authors: Kleinert Thomas , Labbé Martine , Plein Fränk , Schmidt Martin
Published: November 2020

Linear bilevel optimization problems are often tackled by replacing the linear lower-level problem with its Karush–Kuhn–Tucker conditions. The resulting single-level problem can be solved in a branch-and-bound fashion by branching on the complementarity constraints of the lower-level problem’s optimality conditions. While in mixed-integer single-level optimization branch-and-cut has proven to be a powerful extension of branch-and-bound, in linear bilevel optimization not too many bilevel-tailored valid inequalities exist. In this paper, we briefly review existing cuts for linear bilevel problems and introduce a new valid inequality that exploits the strong duality condition of the lower level. We further discuss strengthened variants of the inequality that can be derived from McCormick envelopes. In a computational study, we show that the new valid inequalities can help to close the optimality gap very effectively on a large test set of linear bilevel instances.
Multi-wavelength fluorescence imaging with a da Vinci Firefly—a technical look behind the scenes
Authors: Meershoek Philippa , KleinJan Gijs H. , van Willigen Danny M. , Bauwens Kevin P. , Spa Silvia J. , van Beurden Florian , van Gennep Erik J. , Mottrie Alexandre M. , van der Poel Henk G. , Buckle T. , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B. , van Oosterom Matthias N.
Published: November 2020

The field of fluorescence-guided surgery builds on colored fluorescent tracers that have become available for different clinical applications. Combined use of complementary fluorescent emissions can allow visualization of different anatomical structures (e.g. tumor, lymphatics and nerves) in the same patient. With the aim to assess the requirements for multi-color fluorescence guidance under in vivo conditions, we thoroughly characterized two FDA-approved laparoscopic Firefly camera systems available on the da Vinci Si or da Vinci Xi surgical robot. In this process, we studied the cameras’ performance with respect to the photophysical properties of the FDA-approved dyes Fluorescein and ICG. Our findings indicate that multi-wavelength fluorescence imaging of Fluorescein and ICG is possible using clinical-grade fluorescence laparoscopes, but critical factors for success include the photophysical dye properties, imaging system performance and the amount of accumulated dye. When comparing the camera performance, the Xi system provided more effective excitation (adaptions in the light source) and higher detection sensitivity (chip-on-a-tip and/or enhanced image processing) for both Fluorescein and ICG. Both systems can readily be used for multi-wavelength fluorescence imaging of Fluorescein and ICG under clinically relevant conditions. With that, another step has been made towards the routine implementation of multi-wavelength image-guided surgery concepts.
A computed tomography algorithm for crossing coronary chronic total occlusions: riding on the wave of the proximal cap and distal vessel segment
Authors: Opolski M. P. , Nap A. , Knaapen P.
Published: November 2020

With wider adoption of coronary computed tomography angiography (coronary CTA), chronic total occlusions (CTOs) are being increasingly identified and characterised by non-invasive angiography. In particular, the ability of coronary CTA to clearly delineate atherosclerotic plaque, as well as to display three-dimensional vessel trajectories, has garnered particular attention in the context of preprocedural planning and periprocedural guidance of CTO percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Single CTO features and combined scoring systems derived from CTA (mostly exceeding the diagnostic performance of the angiographic J‑CTO score) have been used to predict time-efficient guidewire crossing, and thus grade the CTO difficulty level prior to PCI. In addition, the introduction of three-dimensional CTA/fluoroscopy co-registration for periprocedural navigation during CTO PCI offers the unprecedented opportunity to resolve proximal cap ambiguity and clearly visualise the distal CTO segment, thereby potentially influencing CTO PCI strategies and techniques. In this review, the potential advantages of non-invasive evaluation of CTO by coronary CTA are described, and a CTA-based hybrid algorithm is introduced for further enhancing the efficiency of CTO PCI. Further studies are clearly needed to verify the proposed approach. However, several luminary operators have already implemented coronary CTA for planning and periprocedural guidance of CTO interventions using the hybrid algorithm.
Nutrient profiles, functional compositions, and antioxidant activities of seven types of grain fermented with Sanghuangporus sanghuang fungus
Authors: Song Tingting , Zhang Zuofa , Jin Qunli , Feng Weilin , Shen Yingyue , Fan Lijun , Cai Weiming
Published: November 2020

Sanghuangporus sanghuang (SS) is a rare medicinal polypore fungus that grows solely on Morus trees. In this study, seven grains (oats, barley, millet, rice, buckwheat, corn, and coix seed) were used as solid substrates for SS fermentation and characterized in their nutrition, functional composition, and antioxidant activities. After fermentation, the nutrient compositions of crude protein (F1,41 = 111.1, P < 0.01), soluble protein (F1,41 = 595.7, P < 0.01), soluble sugar (F1,41 = 51.4, P < 0.01) and ash (F1,41 = 227.3, P < 0.01) increased significantly. Oats were one of the best grains for SS fermentation, SS-Oat produced 6.23 mg QE/g polyphenols, 21.8 mg rutin/g flavonoids, and 2.3% triterpene. In addition, the antioxidant capacities of the seven grains all increased. Principal component analysis analysis shows that the antioxidant properties of the grains were similar after SS fermentation. The changes of antioxidant activity due to SS fermentation were corrected with corresponding grain and remarked as ΔT-AOC/ABTS+/DPPH/DNAp, that was correlated to part of changes in polyphenol, carotenoid, triterpenoids, and flavonoid contents. In summary, oats have the greatest potential for use as a fermentation substrate for health food development.
Heavy metal index and geographical information system (GIS) approach to study heavy metal contamination: a case study of north Chennai groundwater
Authors: Mahapatra S. R. , Venugopal T. , Shanmugasundaram A. , Giridharan L. , Jayaprakash M.
Published: November 2020

Fifty-four groundwater samples were collected from the highly industrialized area of north Chennai. These groundwater samples were tested for Fe, Mn, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn and Cr in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods of 2015–2016. Most of the samples in the area were found to have high concentration of heavy metals. Geographical information system was used to develop contour maps for the analysis of heavy metals, and it has been found that most of the Ambattur area was affected by the heavy metals in both the seasons. ANOVA tests were carried out on the hydro-chemical data for both the monsoon periods, and it was found that there was a common source of origin for most of the heavy metals, which was also confirmed by the correlation and principal component analysis. T-test indicates that there was a common source of origin of heavy metals in the study area, viz. industrial and domestic pollutants, that were found to be the main source of heavy metals in both the monsoon periods. Principal component analysis gave three important factors (principal components) for both the seasons. Pre-monsoon groundwater samples showed a common cause of origin of heavy metals than the post-monsoon samples. Heavy metal pollution index indicates that almost all the samples were not fit for drinking purpose in both the monsoon periods and metal index also indicates the non-usability of the water for drinking purpose.
Contralateral Effects of Unilateral Strength and Skill Training: Modified Delphi Consensus to Establish Key Aspects of Cross-Education
Authors: Manca A. , Hortobágyi T. , Carroll T. J. , Enoka R. M. , Farthing J. P. , Gandevia S. C. , Kidgell D. J. , Taylor J. L. , Deriu F.
Published: November 2020

Background

Cross-education refers to increased motor output (i.e., force generation, skill) of the opposite, untrained limb following a period of unilateral exercise training. Despite extensive research, several aspects of the transfer phenomenon remain controversial.

Methods

A modified two-round Delphi online survey was conducted among international experts to reach consensus on terminology, methodology, mechanisms of action, and translational potential of cross-education, and to provide a framework for future research.

Results

Through purposive sampling of the literature, we identified 56 noted experts in the field, of whom 32 completed the survey, and reached consensus (75% threshold) on 17 out of 27 items.

Conclusion

Our consensus-based recommendations for future studies are that (1) the term ‘cross-education’ should be adopted to refer to the transfer phenomenon, also specifying if transfer of strength or skill is meant; (2) functional magnetic resonance imaging, short-interval intracortical inhibition and interhemispheric inhibition appear to be promising tools to study the mechanisms of transfer; (3) strategies which maximize cross-education, such as high-intensity training, eccentric contractions, and mirror illusion, seem worth being included in the intervention plan; (4) study protocols should be designed to include at least 13–18 sessions or 4–6 weeks to produce functionally meaningful transfer of strength, and (5) cross-education could be considered as an adjuvant treatment particularly for unilateral orthopedic conditions and sports injuries. Additionally, a clear gap in views emerged between the research field and the purely clinical field.

The present consensus statement clarifies relevant aspects of cross-education including neurophysiological, neuroanatomical, and methodological characteristics of the transfer phenomenon, and provides guidance on how to improve the quality and usability of future cross-education studies.
An efficient three-dimensional foil structure model for bump-type gas foil bearings considering friction
Authors: Gu Yongpeng , Lan Xudong , Ren Gexue , Zhou Ming
Published: November 2020

This paper presents an efficient three-dimensional (3D) structural model for bump-type gas foil bearings (GFBs) developed by considering friction. The foil structures are modeled with a 3D shell finite element model. Using the bump foil mechanical characteristics, the Guyan reduction and component mode synthesis methods are adopted to improve computational efficiency while guaranteeing accurate static responses. A contact model that includes friction and separation behaviors is presented to model the interactions of the bump foil with the top foil and bearing sleeve. The proposed structural model was validated with published analytical and experimental results. The coupled elastohydrodynamics model of GFBs was established by integration of the proposed structural model with data on hydrodynamic films, and it was validated by comparisons with existing experimental results. The performance of a bearing with an angular misalignment was studied numerically, revealing that the reaction torques of the misaligned bearing predicted by GFB models with 2D and 3D foil structure models are quite different. The 3D foil structure model should be used to study GFB misalignment.
Enhanced micro/nano-tribological performance in partially crystallized 60NiTi film
Authors: He Wanjun , Zeng Qunfeng
Published: November 2020

The microstructure, mechanical and micro/nano-tribological properties of the 60NiTi film annealed at different temperature were investigated. The results reveal that annealing as-deposited 60NiTi film at 300, 375, and 600 °C for 1 h leads to structural relaxation, partial crystallization and full crystallization, respectively. Compared with the structurally relaxed structure, the partially crystallized structure exhibits increased hardness but decreased elastic modulus. This is because that the elastic modulus is reduced by Voigt model while the hardness is improved by composite effect. Due to the highest hardness and ratio of hardness to elastic modulus (H/E), the partially crystallized 60NiTi film has the lowest penetration depth and residual depth (i.e., groove depth). Besides, the results also reveal that ductile plowing is the dominant wear mechanism for all the annealed 60NiTi films. Under the condition of the ductile plowing, coefficient of friction and wear resistance are related to penetration depth and residual depth, respectively. Therefore, the partially crystallized 60NiTi film shows the best tribological performance at the micro/nano-scale. The current work not only highlights the important roles of hardness and H/E in improving the micro/nano-tribological properties but also concludes an efficient and simple method for simultaneously increasing hardness and H/E.
Familiäre gastrointestinale Tumorerkrankungen: daran denken!
Authors: Djanani Angela
Published: November 2020

Eine familiäre Tumorerkrankung hat nicht nur therapeutische Konsequenzen für die Patienten selbst, sondern ist auch für nahe Angehörige von großer Relevanz im Hinblick auf Früherkennung und Prävention. Deshalb sollte vor allem bei jungem Erkrankungsalter, auffälliger Familienanamnese und bestimmten klinischen und histologischen Erkrankungsmerkmalen daran gedacht und eine genetische Abklärung veranlasst werden.
Two factors, one direction towards social regulation policy convergence
Authors: Chhabra Gagan
Published: November 2020

Two significantly different countries such as Norway and India have adopted similar social regulation policies aimed at the employment of disabled people since the 1990s. Countries can adopt social regulation policies, such as anti-discrimination provisions, owing to multiple factors. This article uncovers two common factors leading to policy convergence within social regulation reforms aimed at the employment of disabled people in Norway and India. An exploratory qualitative case study was conducted, wherein 25 policy experts (11 from Norway and 14 from India) were interviewed. Findings from expert interviews indicate that the observed policy convergence are connected to two trends that can be detected both in Norway and India. The first concerns the influence of international treaties; the second concerns grassroots mobilization of disabled people and their organizations. Findings point towards increasing internationalization of social regulation policies and these policy developments transcend the global North and global South divide.
Acute Hamstring Muscle Tears in Climbers—Current Rehabilitation Concepts
Authors: Ehiogu Uzo Dimma , Stephens Gareth , Jones Gareth , Schöffl Volker
Published: November 2020

Acute hamstring injuries are often caused by the heel hook technique. This technique is unique to climbing and causes injury to muscular and inert tissues of the posterior thigh. The heel hook is used by climbers during strenuous ascent on overhanging walls and when crossing difficult terrain. The technique reduces the amount of upper body strength required during strenuous climbing because the climber’s center of mass is retained within the base of support. The heel hook is stressful collectively for the hamstring muscle group and musculotendinous junction. Depending on injury severity, both conservative and surgical methods exist for the management of hamstring injuries. Contemporary approaches to rehabilitation primarily advocate the use of eccentric muscle strengthening strategies because of high rates of elongation stress associated with sprinting and team sports. However, there is reason to doubt whether this alone is sufficient to rehabilitate the climbing athlete in light of the high degree of concentric muscle strength required in the heel hook maneuver. This review examines the contemporary rehabilitation and strength and conditioning literature in relation to the management of acute hamstring musculotendinous injuries for the climbing athlete. The review provides a comprehensive approach for the rehabilitation and athletic preparation of the climbing athlete from the initial injury to full return to sports participation.
Associations between dietary total antioxidant capacity and odds of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults: a case–control study
Authors: Sohouli Mohammad Hassan , Fatahi Somaye , Sayyari Aliakbar , Olang Beheshteh , Shidfar Farzad
Published: November 2020

The relationships between the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the diet and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have not previously been assessed. The aim of this study was to assess relationships between DTAC and odds of NAFLD in a case–control study. This case–control study was carried out in 158 patients with NAFLD and 357 healthy individuals aged 18–55 years. Dietary data were collected using validated 168-item quantitative food frequency questionnaires. Triacylglycerols (TAGs), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) and fasting blood glucose (FBS) concentrations were assessed using enzymatic methods and commercial kits. The DTAC was calculated based on the oxygen radical absorbance capacity of each food reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The mean ± sd (standard deviation) for age and body mass index (BMI) of the study participants were 43⋅9 years ±5⋅9 and had 30⋅5 kg/m2 ±2⋅6. The NAFLD patients included higher BMI and female proportion, compared with the control group. The NAFLD patients included higher smoking rates, biochemical parameters (TG, TC, LDL-C and FBS) and DTAC scores, compared with control groups (P-value < 0⋅05). However, patients with NAFLD had lower HDL levels and physical activities, compared with the control group. The highest tertile of DTAC showed lower odds of NAFLD, compared with the lowest tertile. This association was significant after adjustment for potential confounders (OR, 0⋅19; 95 % CI, 0⋅9–0⋅34; P for trend 0⋅001). Findings suggest that the promotion of naturally increased antioxidant capacities may help prevent odds of NAFLD.
Is ergothioneine a ‘longevity vitamin’ limited in the American diet?
Authors: Beelman Robert B. , Kalaras Michael D. , Phillips Allen T. , Richie John P.
Published: November 2020

There is mounting evidence for the potential for the natural dietary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory amino acid l-Ergothioneine (ERGO) to prevent or mitigate chronic diseases of aging. This has led to the suggestion that it could be considered a ‘longevity vitamin.’ ERGO is produced in nature only by certain fungi and a few other microbes. Mushrooms are, by far, the leading dietary source of ERGO, but it is found in small amounts throughout the food chain, most likely due to soil-borne fungi passing it on to plants. Because some common agricultural practices can disrupt beneficial fungus–plant root relationships, ERGO levels in foods grown under those conditions could be compromised. Thus, research is needed to further analyse the role agricultural practices play in the availability of ERGO in the human diet and its potential to improve our long-term health.
Food availability and advertising within food outlets around primary healthcare services in Brazil
Authors: Horta Paula M. , Souza Juliana de P. M. , Freitas Patrícia P. , Lopes Aline C. S.
Published: November 2020

The consumer food environment is changing: an extensive variety of foods are now available in most markets, offering palatability, convenience and novelty. However, little is known about the availability and advertising of food items within food outlets, especially among developing countries. The present study examined these dimensions in 281 food outlets located around eighteen primary healthcare services in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, in 2013. These establishments were classified as large-chain supermarkets; specialised fruits and vegetable (F&V) markets; and local grocery stores, convenience stores or bakeries. Availability of F&V, availability of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and food advertising were compared across the food outlet categories by applying the χ2 test. Almost 60 % of the food outlets were specialised F&V markets, 21⋅4 % were large-chain supermarkets and 19⋅2 % were local grocery stores, convenience stores or bakeries. Almost 80 % contained at least eight types of fruits and vegetables, and 60 % contained UPF. Food advertisement was absent in 59⋅8 % of the food outlets, 19⋅6 % were advertising only F&V and 17⋅4 % were advertising only UPF. Higher F&V availability was noted inside specialised F&V markets and large-chain supermarkets than local grocery stores, convenience stores or bakeries. Advertising of F&V was more common within specialised F&V markets. However, large-chain supermarkets and local grocery stores, convenience stores or bakeries contained more frequent UPF food advertising isolated: 38⋅3 and 35⋅2 %, respectively. Therefore, the availability and advertising of food items within food outlets around primary healthcare services are different according to the type of food outlet.
The Multiclass Classification of Newspaper Articles with Machine Learning: The Hybrid Binary Snowball Approach
Authors: Sebők Miklós , Kacsuk Zoltán
Published: November 2020

In this article, we present a machine learning-based solution for matching the performance of the gold standard of double-blind human coding when it comes to content analysis in comparative politics. We combine a quantitative text analysis approach with supervised learning and limited human resources in order to classify the front-page articles of a leading Hungarian daily newspaper based on their full text. Our goal was to assign items in our dataset to one of 21 policy topics based on the codebook of the Comparative Agendas Project. The classification of the imbalanced classes of topics was handled by a hybrid binary snowball workflow. This relies on limited human resources as well as supervised learning; it simplifies the multiclass problem to one of binary choice; and it is based on a snowball approach as we augment the training set with machine-classified observations after each successful round and also between corpora. Our results show that our approach provided better precision results (of over 80% for most topic codes) than what is customary for human coders and most computer-assisted coding projects. Nevertheless, this high precision came at the expense of a relatively low, below 60%, share of labeled articles.
A mycoprotein-based high-protein vegan diet supports equivalent daily myofibrillar protein synthesis rates compared with an isonitrogenous omnivorous diet in older adults: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Monteyne Alistair J. , Dunlop Mandy V. , Machin David J. , Coelho Mariana O. C. , Pavis George F. , Porter Craig , Murton Andrew J. , Abdelrahman Doaa R. , Dirks Marlou L. , Stephens Francis B. , Wall Benjamin T.
Published: November 2020

Animal-derived dietary protein ingestion and physical activity stimulate myofibrillar protein synthesis rates in older adults. We determined whether a non-animal-derived diet can support daily myofibrillar protein synthesis rates to the same extent as an omnivorous diet. Nineteen healthy older adults (aged 66 (sem 1) years; BMI 24 (sem 1) kg/m2; twelve males, seven females) participated in a randomised, parallel-group, controlled trial during which they consumed a 3-d isoenergetic high-protein (1·8 g/kg body mass per d) diet, where the protein was provided from predominantly (71 %) animal (OMNI; n 9; six males, three females) or exclusively vegan (VEG; n 10; six males, four females; mycoprotein providing 57 % of daily protein intake) sources. During the dietary control period, participants conducted a daily bout of unilateral resistance-type leg extension exercise. Before the dietary control period, participants ingested 400 ml of deuterated water, with 50-ml doses consumed daily thereafter. Saliva samples were collected throughout to determine body water 2H enrichments, and muscle samples were collected from rested and exercised muscle to determine daily myofibrillar protein synthesis rates. Deuterated water dosing resulted in body water 2H enrichments of approximately 0·78 (sem 0·03) %. Daily myofibrillar protein synthesis rates were 13 (sem 8) (P = 0·169) and 12 (sem 4) % (P = 0·016) greater in the exercised compared with rested leg (1·59 (sem 0·12) v. 1·77 (sem 0·12) and 1·76 (sem 0·14) v. 1·93 (sem 0·12) %/d) in OMNI and VEG groups, respectively. Daily myofibrillar protein synthesis rates did not differ between OMNI and VEG in either rested or exercised muscle (P > 0·05). Over the course of a 3-d intervention, omnivorous- or vegan-derived dietary protein sources can support equivalent rested and exercised daily myofibrillar protein synthesis rates in healthy older adults consuming a high-protein diet.
Changes in the chemical and in-vitro antihypertensive properties of sweet whey obtained from miniature fresh, Chanco and Gouda-style model cheeses
Authors: Godoy Josemaría , Peslerbes Marie , Vyhmeister Stefanie , Vargas-Bello-Pérez Einar , Fellenberg María Angélica , Ibáñez Rodrigo A.
Published: November 2020

This Technical Research Communication evaluated the influence of various cheese manufacture methods on the composition and in vitro antihypertensive activity of sweet whey samples obtained from miniature models for fresh, Chanco and Gouda-style cheese processing using bulk-tank milks throughout a year. Raw milks from morning milking were standardized, pasteurized and used to obtain sweet whey using cheesemaking protocols for each variety on 200 g scale, as well the use of whey dilution at levels of 0, 15, 30 and 45% in Chanco and Gouda-style making. The composition of sweet whey obtained within each cheesemaking variety was similar among different timepoints of the year (P > 0.05), which was attributed to similar composition of milks and the use standardized cheesemaking protocols used for this study. As expected, the use of whey dilution led to sweet whey samples with reduced levels of total solids (P < 0.05), but they exhibited an improvement of the in vitro antihypertensive properties, which may be attributed to the formation of low-molecular weight bioactive peptides due to increased cheese making times. The results of this study suggest that modifying cheese manufacture protocols may have a direct impact on the bioactive properties of sweet whey. Future work will be required to identify and evaluate the feasibility to purify bioactive peptides obtained from sweet whey.
Optimization of usnic acid extraction conditions using fractional factorial design
Authors: Galanty Agnieszka , Paśko Paweł , Podolak Irma , Zagrodzki Paweł
Published: November 2020

Usnic acid is a unique lichen metabolite of industrial importance, widely studied to explore its pharmacological potential and valued especially as an antibacterial agent in cosmetics. Although a vast number of papers describe usnic acid extraction from various lichen species, none has so far provided an unequivocal indication of the best extraction procedure for this compound. Thus, the current study was focused on the direct comparison of three commonly used usnic acid extraction methods (heat reflux, shaking, ultrasound-assisted extractions), which were optimized using fractional factorial design. Heat reflux extraction, shaking extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction were first optimized in a series of experiments using fractional factorial design, with respect to three parameters: the extraction time, the solvent used and the number of extraction repetitions. HPLC was employed for usnic acid quantitative analysis. The best scores for each extraction method were statistically compared and the optimal conditions were indicated. The optimal set of parameters for usnic acid was established to be a single, 60 min heat reflux extraction with acetone. This extraction scheme provided 4.25 ±0.08 mg g−1 d.w. of usnic acid, while for ultrasound-assisted and shaking extractions the amount was two- or even four times lower (2.33 ±0.17 and 0.97 ±0.08 mg g−1 d.w., respectively). The optimal procedure for usnic acid extraction described here may be suitable for effective acquisition of this compound for scientific research purposes, but also for applications in the pharmaceutical or cosmetic industries.
A newPsamminaspecies with exceptionally long conidial arms, with a key to the ten known species of the genus
Authors: van der Kolk Henk-Jan , Earland-Bennett Peter M. , Hawksworth David L.
Published: November 2020

The algicolous and lichenicolous speciesPsammina filamentosais described from the Netherlands and the UK, and is characterized by long (generally over 50 μm) and somewhat tapered conidial arms.Psammina filamentosais compared with otherPsamminaspecimens found in the same habitat, growing on algae or lichens on the dry side of trees and stones.Psammina filamentosa, P. inflataandP. stipitatadiffer in the dimensions of their conidial arms.Psammina simplex, however, may be a synonym ofP. stipitata, and a DNA study is needed to determine whether it is a distinct species or developing material ofP. stipitata.Psammina inflatais also reported as new for the Netherlands. A new worldwide key to the 10 species ofPsamminacurrently known is provided, including three species described from plant material.
THE EDICT OF PÎTRES, CAROLINGIAN DEFENCE AGAINST THE VIKINGS, AND THE ORIGINS OF THE MEDIEVAL CASTLE
Authors: MacLean Simon
Published: November 2020

The castle was one of the most characteristic features of the western European landscape in the Middle Ages, dominating social and political order from the eleventh century onwards. The origins of the castle are generally assigned to the ninth and tenth centuries, and the standard story begins with the defensive fortifications established against the Vikings during the reign of the West Frankish king Charles the Bald (843–77). In this article I argue that there are serious problems with this origin story, by re-evaluating some of the key sources on which it rests – particularly the Edict of Pîtres (864). I seek to demonstrate that my analysis of this source has important implications for how we think about the relationship between fortifications and the state in the Carolingian Empire; and by extension the evolution of the castle in north-western Europe between the ninth and twelfth centuries.
“Inoculations: The Social Politics of Time, Labor, and Public Good in COVID-America”
Authors: Klein Jennifer
Published: November 2020

“We are becoming a 24/7 workforce.”

—Fair Workweek Initiative

“I Can't Breathe”

—Eric Garner, George Floyd, Manuel Ellis, Derrick Scott, Byron Williams, Vincente Villela, Ngozi Mbegu, Willie Ray Banks, James Brown…

On May 1, 2020, Justa Barrios, a New York City home-care worker and labor activist, passed away from COVID-19. After working twenty-four-hour shifts for fourteen years, Barrios had injuries and compounding medical issues, including asthma, stomach difficulties, and heart problems. Her doctor determined that she could no longer work twenty-four-hour shifts. Yet when the home-care agency received a letter from the doctor requesting Barrios be assigned to eight-hour shifts, the agency dropped her. Barrios fought back. She found her voice in the “Ain't I a Woman?!” Campaign; comrades described her as a “fearless leader.” Stemming from an alliance among female immigrants and US-born garment, plastics, office, and home-care workers, via workers’ centers such as the National Mobilization Against Sweatshops, this organizing effort has sought to end twenty-four-hour days—and the legally permissible practice of paying for only thirteen hours—in New York state through direct action, the courts, union arbitration, and state legislation prohibiting twenty-four -hour shifts. Women such as Justa Barros, Lai Yee Chan, Mei Kum Chu, Seferina Rosario, and Sileni Martinez see the “Aint I a Woman?!” Campaign as a “new women's movement fighting for control over our time, health, respect and payment.” As a cross-racial group, members chose to invoke Sojourner Truth, who tied together the causes of slavery abolition and women's rights, emancipation from coerced labor and from patriarchy, the dignity of women's labor and the dignity of release from work. But this legislation, which would seem so obviously humane and jarringly anachronistic, has been stalled in the New York legislature and ignored by Governor Andrew Cuomo for over a year.
Point ablation for macro-reentrant ventricular tachycardia associated with Ebstein’s anomaly and pulmonary atresia: a case report
Authors: Toyohara Keiko , Tomizawa Yasuko , Shoda Morio
Published: November 2020

We report a case with Ebstein’s anomaly and pulmonary atresia with sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia in a patient without a ventriculotomy history. In the low voltage area between the atrialised right ventricle and hypoplastic right ventricle, there was a ventricular tachycardia substrate and slow conduction. The tachycardia circuit was eliminated by a point catheter ablation at the area with diastolic fractionated potentials.
ANTICIPATED FUTURE CONSUMPTION IN AN ENDOGENOUS GROWTH MODEL
Authors: Gómez Manuel A. , Monteiro Goncalo
Published: November 2020

We devise an endogenous growth model in which agents’ utility depends not only on current consumption but also on the pleasure of anticipated future consumption. We consider the case in which agents derive satisfaction from their own anticipatory feelings—inward-looking or internal anticipation—and the case in which agents derive utility from anticipation of other people’s future consumption—outward-looking or external anticipation. We characterize the effects of introducing a forward-looking consumption reference on the dynamics of the economy. Whereas the inward-looking economy features transitional dynamics, the outward-looking economy does not. The distortions caused by the externality in the economy with external habits can be corrected by subsidizing income at a time-varying rate or by means of a tax on consumption at a decreasing rate. We contrast the equilibrium dynamics of our specification to the more standard specification of the habit formation consumption reference point. Numerical simulations supplement the theoretical analysis.