bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Core–Shell–Satellite Nanomaces as Remotely Controlled Self‐Fueling Fenton Reagents for Imaging‐Guided Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer‐Specific Therapy
Authors: Du Yang , Yang Chuang , Li Fangyuan , Liao Hongwei , Chen Zheng , Lin Peihua , Wang Nan , Zhou Yan , Lee Ji Young , Ding Qiang , Ling Daishun
Published: June 2020

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is highly aggressive and insensitive to conventional targeted therapies, resulting in poor therapeutic outcomes. Recent studies have shown that abnormal iron metabolism is observed in TNBC, suggesting an opportunity for TNBC treatment via the iron‐dependent Fenton reaction. Nevertheless, the efficiency of current Fenton reagents is largely restricted by the lack of specificity and low intracellular H2O2 level of cancer cells. Herein, core–shell–satellite nanomaces (Au @ MSN@IONP) are fabricated, as near‐infrared (NIR) light‐triggered self‐fueling Fenton reagents for the amplified Fenton reaction inside TNBC cells. Specifically, the Au nanorod core can convert NIR light energy into heat to induce massive production of intracellular H2O2, thereby the surface‐decorated iron oxide nanoparticles (IONP) are being fueled for robust Fenton reaction. By exploiting the vulnerability of iron efflux in TNBC cells, such a self‐fueling Fenton reaction leads to highly specific anti‐TNBC efficacy with minimal cytotoxicity to normal cells. The PI3K/Akt/FoxO axis, intimately involved in the redox regulation and survival of TNBC, is demonstrated to be inhibited after the treatment. Consequently, precise in vivo orthotopic TNBC ablation is achieved under the guidance of IONP‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. The results demonstrate the proof‐of‐concept of NIR‐light‐triggered self‐fueling Fenton reagents against TNBC with low ferroportin levels.
Numerical Modeling of Argon‐Oxygen Decarburization Slag Cooling
Authors: Kärnä Aki , Visuri Ville-Valtteri , Heikkinen Eetu-Pekka , Sulasalmi Petri , Torvinen Pauli , Koskinen Juha , Fabritius Timo
Published: June 2020

Stainless steelmaking produces different types of slags which need to be cooled, stored, and pretreated before further use. In current practice, the slag is cooled in an air atmosphere, but water cooling has been envisaged to speed up cooling. The aim of this article is to simulate the cooling of argon‐oxygen decarburization (AOD) slag under the conditions of ambient cooling and water cooling. The effects of the thickness and initial temperature of the slag layer are also studied. Finally, practical means to improve the cooling practice are evaluated based on the model predictions.
Zum Mindestverdübelungsgrad von Verbundträgern
Authors: Bärtschi Roland , Fontana Mario , Taras Andreas , Tobler Roman
Published: June 2020

Die Verbundbauweise ermöglicht sichere, wirtschaftliche und ökologische Tragwerke. Der Einsatz von Verbundträgern im Verkehrslastverbund erlaubt besonders schnellen Baufortschritt. Für solche Anwendungen kommen im Hochbau meist Verbundträger im Teilverbund zur Anwendung. Im Teilverbund begrenzt die Verbundfuge den Biegewiderstand des Verbundträgers. Nebst den Festigkeitsanforderungen an die Verbundfuge begrenzt auch der Mindestverdübelungsgrad die dabei mögliche Einsparung an Verbundmitteln. Die bisherige Regelung in Eurocode 4 zur Ermittlung des Mindestverdübelungsgrads wird in der Fachliteratur als sicher, aber in vielen Fällen stark unwirtschaftlich beurteilt. In diesem Aufsatz wird die verformungsbasierte Endschlupfmethode als ergänzendes Verfahren zur sicheren und wirtschaftlichen Ermittlung des Mindestverdübelungsgrads vorgestellt. Die Endschlupfmethode stellt ein auf zuverlässigen physikalischen Modellen basierendes Verfahren dar, welches den Einsatz eines weiten Spektrums von Verbundmitteln im für das jeweilige System optimalen Bereich ermöglicht. Für Forschungs‐ und Entwicklungsschritte, welche eine weiter optimierte Anwendung der Endschlupfmethode ermöglichen, werden zudem Vorschläge formuliert.
Metformin scavenges formaldehyde and attenuates formaldehyde‐induced bovine serum albumin crosslinking and cellular DNA damage
Authors: Mai Xinglian , Zhou Fuyang , Lin Peibin , Lin Shuyun , Gao Jun , Ma Yuhua , Fan Rongrong , Ting Weijen , Huang Chihyang , Yin Dazhong , Kang Zhanfang
Published: June 2020

Formaldehyde (FA) can be produced in the environment and by cell metabolism and has been classified as a carcinogen in animals and humans. Metformin is the most commonly used drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Metformin also has potential benefit in cancer prevention and treatment. The aim of this study was to determine whether metformin can directly react with FA and attenuate its toxicity in vitro. Metformin was incubated at pH 7.4 and 37°C in the presence of FA, and the reaction mixture was analyzed by UV spectrophotometry, high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mass spectrometry. Fluorescence spectrophotometry, immunofluorescence, and western blot were used to measure FA‐induced bovine serum albumin (BSA) crosslinking and DNA damage in HepG2 cells treated with or without metformin. According to the HPLC and mass spectrometry data, we speculate that the reaction of metformin with FA (1:1) initially results in the formation of a conjugated intermediate followed by the subsequent generation of a stable six‐membered ring structure. Correspondingly, metformin attenuated FA‐induced fluorescence in BSA as well as the aggregation of γH2AX in HepG2 cells. These results suggest that metformin can protect protein and DNA damage induced by FA at least partly through a direct reaction process.
Transient response of hygrothermoelastic field in an elastic plate with an edge crack
Authors: Zhang Xue‐Yang , Li Xian‐Fang
Published: June 2020

In order to describe the complex interaction in the heat and moisture transfer process, a coupled time‐fractional hygrothermal theory is developed to describe the anomalous phenomenon of coupled heat and moisture diffusion. The hygrothermoelastic behaviors in a plate with an edge crack are investigated. The surfaces of the plate are both subjected to hygrothermal shocks. The Laplace transform and the finite Fourier transform are applied to seek an analytical solution of temperature change, moisture distribution, and stress response that are expressed in terms of the Mittag‐Leffler function. With this solution, the stress intensity factors at the crack tip are numerically calculated through the weight function method. The coupling effects of the heat and moisture on the stress intensity factors are illustrated graphically for sub‐diffusion, normal diffusion, and super‐diffusion respectively. The results show that the coupling hygrothermal effects are significant and different when compared with the uncoupled model.
Experimental and numerical investigation on effect of trash rack on flow properties at power intakes
Authors: Aghajani Navid , Karami Hojat , Sarkardeh Hamed , Mousavi Sayed‐Farhad
Published: June 2020

In the present experimental and numerical research, the flow behavior in a reservoir and horizontal water intake was analyzed in the presence of surface vortices. To do so, velocity field, vortex strength, and Reynolds number in different horizontal sections in the reservoir and the energy loss and entrained air volume at horizontal intake pipe at three different relative submerged depths (S/D = 1, 1.5 and 2) and five intake Froude numbers (Fr = 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6) were investigated by installing two trash racks with 64% and 70% openings and one intake without trash rack. The velocity field and vortex strength were measured using Particle Tracking Velocimetry. Reynolds number, velocity, energy loss, and entrained air volume at horizontal intake pipe were computed by numerical simulations. The commercially available computational fluid dynamics program Flow‐3D, was used for the numerical modeling. Numerical simulations were validated by the experimental data. The experimental tests revealed that trash rack presence has a significant effect on reducing the vortex strength and velocity on the water surface. The vortex strength was decreased by 11% and 16% in the trash racks with 70% and 64% opening, respectively. Energy loss clearly increased with the installation of a trash rack. Energy loss in the trash rack with 70% opening was approximately 19–26%. In addition, some relationships were provided for calculation of vortex strength, velocity, and local energy loss in the water intake, which are in good agreement with the studies in the literature.
A model of quantum gravity with emergent spacetime
Authors: Lee Sung-Sik
Published: June 2020

Abstract

We construct a model of quantum gravity in which dimension, topology and geometry of spacetime are dynamical. The microscopic degree of freedom is a real rectangular matrix whose rows label internal flavours, and columns label spatial sites. In the limit that the size of the matrix is large, the sites can collectively form a spatial manifold. The manifold is determined from the pattern of entanglement present across local Hilbert spaces associated with column vectors of the matrix. With no structure of manifold fixed in the background, the spacetime gauge symmetry is generalized to a group that includes diffeomorphism in arbitrary dimensions. The momentum and Hamiltonian that generate the generalized diffeomorphism obey a first-class constraint algebra at the quantum level. In the classical limit, the constraint algebra of the general relativity is reproduced as a special case. The first-class nature of the algebra allows one to express the projection of a quantum state of the matrix to a gauge invariant state as a path integration of dynamical variables that describe collective fluctuations of the matrix. The collective variables describe dynamics of emergent spacetime, where multi-fingered times arise as Lagrangian multipliers that enforce the gauge constraints. If the quantum state has a local structure of entanglement, a smooth spacetime with well-defined dimension, topology, signature and geometry emerges at the saddle-point, and the spin two mode that determines the geometry can be identified. We find a saddle-point solution that describes a series of (3 + 1)-dimensional de Sitter-like spacetimes with the Lorentzian signature bridged by Euclidean spaces in between. The phase transitions between spacetimes with different signatures are caused by Lifshitz transitions in which the pattern of entanglement is rearranged across the system. Fluctuations of the collective variables are described by bi-local fields that propagate in the spacetime set up by the saddle-point solution.
Patient-derived orthotopic xenografts of pediatric brain tumors: a St. Jude resource
Authors: Smith Kyle S. , Xu Ke , Mercer Kimberly S. , Boop Frederick , Klimo Paul , DeCupyere Michael , Grenet Jose , Robinson Sarah , Dunphy Paige , Baker Suzanne J. , Ellison David W. , Merchant Thomas E. , Upadayaya Santhosh A. , Gajjar Amar , Wu Gang , Orr Brent A. , Robinson Giles W. , Northcott Paul A. , Roussel Martine F.
Published: June 2020

Pediatric brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related death in children. Patient-derived orthotopic xenografts (PDOX) of childhood brain tumors have recently emerged as a biologically faithful vehicle for testing novel and more effective therapies. Herein, we provide the histopathological and molecular analysis of 37 novel PDOX models generated from pediatric brain tumor patients treated at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Using a combination of histopathology, whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing, RNA-sequencing, and DNA methylation arrays, we demonstrate the overall fidelity and inter-tumoral molecular heterogeneity of pediatric brain tumor PDOX models. These models represent frequent as well as rare childhood brain tumor entities, including medulloblastoma, ependymoma, atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor, and embryonal tumor with multi-layer rosettes. PDOX models will be valuable platforms for evaluating novel therapies and conducting pre-clinical trials to accelerate progress in the treatment of brain tumors in children. All described PDOX models and associated datasets can be explored using an interactive web-based portal and will be made freely available to the research community upon request.
Respiratory function during enzyme replacement therapy in late-onset Pompe disease: longitudinal course, prognostic factors, and the impact of time from diagnosis to treatment start
Authors: Stockton David W. , Kishnani Priya , van der Ploeg Ans , Llerena Juan , Boentert Matthias , Roberts Mark , Byrne Barry J. , Araujo Roberto , Maruti Sonia S. , Thibault Nathan , Verhulst Karien , Berger Kenneth I.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To examine respiratory muscle function among late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD) patients in the Pompe Registry (NCT00231400/Sanofi Genzyme) during enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with alglucosidase alfa by assessing the longitudinal course of forced vital capacity (FVC), prognostic factors for FVC, and impact of time from diagnosis to ERT initiation.

Methods

Longitudinal FVC data from LOPD (symptom onset > 12 months or ≤ 12 months without cardiomyopathy) patients were analyzed. Patients had to have baseline FVC (percent predicted upright) assessments at ERT start and ≥ 2 valid post-baseline assessments. Longitudinal analyses used linear mixed-regression models.

Results

Among 396 eligible patients, median baseline FVC was 66.9% (range 9.3–126.0). FVC remained stable during the 5-year follow-up (slope = − 0.17%,p = 0.21). Baseline FVC was lower among various subgroups, including patients who were male; older at ERT initiation; had a longer duration from symptom onset to ERT initiation; and had more advanced disease at baseline (based on respiratory support use, inability to ambulate, ambulation device use). Age at symptom onset was not associated with baseline degree of respiratory dysfunction. Differences between subgroups observed at baseline remained during follow-up. Shorter time from diagnosis to ERT initiation was associated with higher FVC after 5 years in all patients and the above subgroups using a cut-off of 1.7 years.

Conclusion

FVC stability over 5 years suggests that respiratory function is preserved during long-term ERT in real-world settings. Early initiation of alglucosidase alfa was associated with preservation of FVC in LOPD patients with better respiratory function at the time of treatment initiation.
Torque teno viral load reflects immunosuppression in paediatric kidney-transplanted patients—a pilot study
Authors: Uhl Phoebe , Heilos Andreas , Bond Gregor , Meyer Elias , Böhm Michael , Puchhammer-Stöckl Elisabeth , Arbeiter Klaus , Müller-Sacherer Thomas , Csaicsich Dagmar , Aufricht Christoph , Rusai Krisztina
Published: June 2020

Background

Chronic deterioration of kidney graft function is related to inadequate immunosuppression (IS). A novel tool to assess the individual net state of IS in transplanted patients might be the monitoring of Torque teno virus (TTV) viral load. TTV is a non-pathogen virus detectable in almost all individuals. TTV level in the peripheral blood has been linked to the immune-competence of its host and should thus reflect IS after solid organ transplantation.

Methods

TTV plasma load was quantified monthly by RT-PCR for a period of 1 year in 45 kidney-transplanted children. Post-transplant time was at least 3 months. The relation of the virus DNA levels to IS and transplant-specific clinical and laboratory parameters was analysed longitudinally.

Results

TTV DNA was detectable in 94.5% of the plasma samples. There was a significant association with the post-transplant follow-up time as well as with the type of IS regimen, with lower virus loads in patients after longer post-transplant time and mTOR inhibitor–based IS. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation with the dose of prednisolone and mycophenolate mofetil was found.

Conclusions

TTV levels show an association/correlation with the strength of IS. Further studies are needed in order to evaluate TTV measurement as a tool for IS monitoring for hard clinical outcomes such as presence of donor-specific antibodies, rejections or infections—common consequences of insufficient or too intense IS.
DNA hypomethylation of the Krüppel-like factor 11 (KLF11) gene promoter: a putative biomarker of depression comorbidity in panic disorder and of non-anxious depression?
Authors: Kollert Leonie , Schiele Miriam A. , Thiel Christiane , Menke Andreas , Deckert Jürgen , Domschke Katharina
Published: June 2020

Panic disorder (PD) is one of the most common anxiety disorders and often occurs comorbidly with major depressive disorder (MDD). Altered methylation of the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene has been implicated in the etiology of both PD and MDD. The Krüppel-like factor 11 (KLF11; alias TIEG2), an activating transcription factor of the MAOA gene, has been found to be increased in MDD, but has not yet been investigated in PD. In an effort to further delineate the effects of the KLF11–MAOA pathway in anxiety and affective disorders, KLF11 promoter methylation was analyzed via pyrosequencing of sodium bisulfite-treated DNA isolated from human peripheral blood in two independent samples of PD patients with or without comorbid MDD in a case–control design (sample 1: N = 120) as well as MDD patients with and without anxious depression (sample 2: N = 170). Additionally, in sample 1, KLF11 methylation was correlated with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) scores. No overall association of KLF11 promoter methylation with PD was detected. However, PD patients with comorbid MDD showed significant hypomethylation relative to both healthy controls (p = 0.010) and PD patients without comorbid MDD (p = 0.008). Furthermore, KLF11 methylation was negatively correlated with BDI-II scores in PD patients (p = 0.013). MDD patients without anxious features showed nominally decreased KLF11 methylation in comparison to MDD patients with anxious depression (p = 0.052). The present results suggest KLF11 promoter hypomethylation as a potential epigenetic marker of MDD comorbidity in PD or of non-anxious depression, respectively, possibly constituting a differential pathomechanism in anxiety and mood disorders.
A review on catalytic & non-catalytic bio-oil upgrading in supercritical fluids
Authors: Omar Sainab , Yang Yang , Wang Jiawei
Published: June 2020

This review article summarizes the key published research on the topic of bio-oil upgrading using catalytic and non-catalytic supercritical fluid (SCF) conditions. The precious metal catalysts Pd, Ru and Pt on various supports are frequently chosen for catalytic bio-oil upgrading in SCFs. This is reportedly due to their favourable catalytic activity during the process including hydrotreating, hydrocracking, and esterification, which leads to improvements in liquid yield, heating value, and pH of the upgraded bio-oil. Due to the costs associated with precious metal catalysts, some researchers have opted for non-precious metal catalysts such as acidic HZSM-5 which can promote esterification in supercritical ethanol. On the other hand, SCFs have been effectively used to upgrade crude bio-oil without a catalyst. Supercritical methanol, ethanol, and water are most commonly used and demonstrate catalyst like activities such as facilitating esterification reactions and reducing solid yield by alcoholysis and hydrolysis, respectively.
Management of children with fever and neutropenia: results of a survey in 51 pediatric cancer centers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
Authors: Scheler Max , Lehrnbecher Thomas , Groll Andreas H. , Volland Ruth , Laws Hans-Jürgen , Ammann Roland A. , Agyeman Philipp , Attarbaschi Andishe , Lux Margaux , Simon Arne
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Investigation of the current practice of diagnostics and treatment in pediatric cancer patients with febrile neutropenia.

Methods

On behalf of the German Society for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology and the German Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases, an Internet-based survey was conducted in 2016 concerning the management of febrile neutropenia in pediatric oncology centers (POC). This survey accompanied the release of the corresponding German guideline to document current practice before its implementation in clinical practice.

Results

In total, 51 POCs participated (response rate 73%; 43 from Germany, and 4 each from Austria and Switzerland). Identified targets for antimicrobial stewardship concerned blood culture diagnostics, documentation of the time to antibiotics, the use of empirical combination therapy, drug monitoring of aminoglycosides, the time to escalation in patients with persisting fever, minimal duration of IV treatment, sequential oral treatment in patients with persisting neutropenia, indication for and choice of empirical antifungal treatment, and the local availability of a pediatric infectious diseases consultation service.

Conclusion

This survey provides useful information for local antibiotic stewardship teams to improve the current practice referring to the corresponding national and international guidelines.
Nuclear imaging for diagnosing fracture-related infection
Authors: Bosch Paul , Glaudemans Andor W. J. M. , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , Middelberg Tim R. , Govaert Geertje A. M. , IJpma Frank F. A.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Fracture-related infection (FRI) is a complication of surgical fracture treatment and can be challenging to diagnose. Recent studies show promising results for the use of either FDG-PET/CT or WBC/anti-granulocyte scintigraphy. The purpose of this pictorial essay is to outline recent developments in nuclear imaging techniques to diagnose FRI.

Methods

The current literature on this topic is reviewed. Additionally, three examples of patients who underwent nuclear imaging as part of their clinical work-up and surgical treatment for FRI are presented.

Results

Based on recent retrospective studies, FDG-PET/CT (accuracy 0.83) and WBC scintigraphy with SPECT/CT (accuracy 0.92) both have a good diagnostic accuracy for diagnosing fracture-related infection. Nuclear imaging contributes to a correct diagnosis in patients with FRI.

Conclusion

Retrospective studies show promising results for both FDG-PET/CT and WBC scintigraphy with SPECT/CT in diagnosing FRI. A prospective, multicenter study (IFI trial), directly comparing MRI, FDG-PET/CT, and WBC scintigraphy with SPECT/CT in patients with suspected FRI, is currently in progress.
Effects of tree size and park maintenance on soil seed bank of Gleditsia triacanthos, an exotic tree in urban green areas
Authors: Csontos Péter , Kalapos Tibor , Faradhimu Tito , Laborczi Annamária , Hardi Tamás , Tamás Júlia
Published: June 2020

The exotic honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) is often planted as ornamental tree in urban parks. In Hungary, it occasionally escapes cultivation, in other countries it has already become invasive, and thus, further spread cannot be ruled out. The production of copious long-lived seeds may contribute to its invasiveness. We investigated the soil seed bank of honey locust growing in urban parks of Budapest (Hungary). Soil samples of 1200 cm3 were taken under the canopy of 48 solitary female trees, seeds were extracted by washing, and their viability was assessed by germination test following scarification. For each tree, trunk circumference and level of park maintenance were recorded. Seed bank density varied between 0 and 500 seeds/m2 and in 17 out of 48 cases, it exceeded 100 seeds/m2. Larger trees tended to form better-developed soil seed bank than smaller ones, yet the level of park maintenance has a much stronger effect: trees in neglected parks produced five-times higher density on average than those in perfectly managed parks (126.4 and 24.5 seeds/m2, respectively). For a better understanding of the species’ invasion risk, detailed seed ecological studies are needed and to prevent its further spreading, a more careful treatment of its litter is recommended.
Betting on the underdog: the influence of social networks on vote choice
Authors: Fredén Annika , Rheault Ludovic , Indridason Indridi H.
Published: June 2020

People are commonly expected not to waste their vote on parties with small probabilities of being elected. Yet, many end up voting for underdogs. We argue that voters gauge the popular support for their preferred party from their social networks. When social networks function as echo chambers, a feature observed in real-life networks, voters overestimate underdogs’ chances of winning. We conduct voting experiments in which some treatment groups receive signals from a simulated network. We compare the effect of networks with a high degree of homogeneity against random networks. We find that homophilic networks increase the level of support for underdogs, which provides evidence to back up anecdotal claims that echo chambers foster the development of fringe parties.
AN EXACT FORMULA FOR THE HARMONIC CONTINUED FRACTION
Authors: BUNDER MARTIN , NICKOLAS PETER , TONIEN JOSEPH
Published: June 2020

For a positive real number$t$, define the harmonic continued fraction$$\begin{eqnarray}\text{HCF}(t)=\biggl[\frac{t}{1},\frac{t}{2},\frac{t}{3},\ldots \biggr].\end{eqnarray}$$We prove that$$\begin{eqnarray}\text{HCF}(t)=\frac{1}{1-2t(\frac{1}{t+2}-\frac{1}{t+4}+\frac{1}{t+6}-\cdots \,)}.\end{eqnarray}$$
Diel activity patterns and arrestment behaviour in host associations of green mirids (Creontiades dilutus)
Authors: Cappadonna J. K. , Hereward J. P. , Walter G. H.
Published: June 2020

Many plant bugs (Miridae) are generalist herbivores that feed on multiple host species. The reasons these bugs move across hosts and the behavioural mechanisms responsible for their retention at specific hosts remain elusive. Green mirids (Creontiades dilutus) are endemic to Australia. These insects are important pests of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) and even in low numbers can cause substantial damage to crops. These bugs are also present in relatively much higher numbers on pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) planted alongside cotton fields, and evidence shows they move across these crops in both directions. Observations of these highly mobile insects in the field are challenging, but indirect evidence suggests that they may be nocturnal. This study evaluated: (1) the diel (24 h) period in which C. dilutus adults were most active, (2) whether they respond to plant volatiles immediately prior to landing on host substrates, and (3) if their presence on a host is in response to attraction or arrestment cues. The results suggest that C. dilutus bugs are typically most active early in the evenings, after remaining motionless during the day (unless disturbed). Their movement (at night) was arrested by hosts prior to touching plant tissues. There was no evidence to suggest that these bugs are attracted by volatiles beyond 2 cm. These outcomes demonstrate that insect behaviours need to be investigated within their typical activity periods, and that arrestment cues possibly play a central role in the host finding process of generalist C. dilutus and probably, therefore, other mirid species.
AENEAS THEFLAMEN: DOUBLE TOGAS AND TABOOS IN VIRGIL'S CARTHAGE
Authors: Morgan Llewelyn
Published: June 2020

This is an investigation of an aspect of Virgil'sAeneid—ultimately, of the ways in which the poet guides his reader's response to Aeneas’ stay in Carthage—and, while it touches on Roman religious practice, clothing codes, late antique Virgilian commentary and Augustan ideology, it hinges on a single word inAeneidBook 4 and its implications for Virgil's depiction of his hero in this book. That word islaena, and it features in one of the most celebrated scenes of the poem, when Mercury descends to earth to find Aeneas busily engaged in founding Carthage (Aen.4.259–64):ut primum alatis tetigit magalia plantis,Aenean fundantem arces ac tecta nouantemconspicit. atque illi stellatus iaspide fuluaensis erat Tyrioque ardebat murice laenademissa ex umeris, diues quae munera Didofecerat, et tenui telas discreuerat auro.

As soon as Mercury with winged feet touched the Carthaginian huts, he caught sight of Aeneas founding the citadel and raising new buildings: his sword was studded with stars of yellow jasper, and alaena, hanging from/let down from his shoulders, blazed with Tyrian purple, a gift that Dido with her wealth had made, interweaving in the web a subtle cross-thread of gold.

Line 4.262 is the only place in theAeneidwhere this word is used, and I shall be suggesting thatlaenarepresents an unusually evocative piece of clothing to put on Aeneas, even aside from the particular character, its decoration and origin, that Virgil attributes to the example Aeneas is wearing at lines 4.262–4. What I offer is a cumulative argument, as a whole (I believe) persuasive but also necessarily speculative given the limited state of our knowledge in various areas from religion to clothing. My essential claim is that Virgil is encouraging his reader at this point in the poem to associate Aeneas with, and judge his behaviour in comparison to, one of the most important members of the Roman priesthood.
Evolution of the sheep coat: the impact of domestication on its structure and development
Authors: Jackson Neville , Maddocks Ian G. , Watts James E. , Scobie David , Mason Rebecca S. , Gordon-Thomson Clare , Stockwell Sally , Moore Geoffrey P.M.
Published: June 2020

Wild sheep and many primitive domesticated breeds have two coats: coarse hairs covering shorter, finer fibres. Both are shed annually. Exploitation of wool for apparel in the Bronze Age encouraged breeding for denser fleeces and continuously growing white fibres. The Merino is regarded as the culmination of this process. Archaeological discoveries, ancient images and parchment records portray this as an evolutionary progression, spanning millennia. However, examination of the fleeces from feral, two-coated and woolled sheep has revealed a ready facility of the follicle population to change from shedding to continuous growth and to revert from domesticated to primitive states. Modifications to coat structure, colour and composition have occurred in timeframes and to sheep population sizes that exclude the likelihood of variations arising from mutations and natural selection. The features are characteristic of the domestication phenotype: an assemblage of developmental, physiological, skeletal and hormonal modifications common to a wide variety of species under human control. The phenotypic similarities appeared to result from an accumulation of cryptic genetic changes early during vertebrate evolution. Because they did not affect fitness in the wild, the mutations were protected from adverse selection, becoming apparent only after exposure to a domestic environment. The neural crest, a transient embryonic cell population unique to vertebrates, has been implicated in the manifestations of the domesticated phenotype. This hypothesis is discussed with reference to the development of the wool follicle population and the particular roles of Notch pathway genes, culminating in the specific cell interactions that typify follicle initiation.
Testing the regional Convergence Hypothesis for the progress in health status in India during 1980–2015
Authors: Siddiqui Mohammad Zahid , Goli Srinivas , Rammohan Anu
Published: June 2020

The key challenges of global health policy are not limited to improving average health status, with a need for greater focus on reducing regional inequalities in health outcomes. This study aimed to assess health inequalities across the major Indian states used data from the Sample Registration System (SRS, 1981–2015), National Family Health Survey (NFHS, 1992–2015) and other Indian government official statistics. Catching-up plots, absolute and conditionalβ-convergence models, sigma (σ) plots and Kernel Density plots were used to test the Convergence Hypothesis, Dispersion Measure of Mortality (DMM) and the Gini index to measure progress in absolute and relative health inequalities across the major Indian states. The findings from the absoluteβ-convergence measure showed convergence in life expectancy at birth among the states. The results from theβ- andσ-convergences showed convergence replacing divergence post-2000 for child and maternal mortality indicators. Furthermore, the estimates suggested a continued divergence for child underweight, but slow improvements in child full immunization. The trends in inter-state inequality suggest a decline in absolute inequality, but a significant increase or stationary trend in relative health inequality during 1981–2015. The application of different convergence metrics worked as robustness checks in the assessment of the convergence process in the selected health indicators for India over the study period.
Association of erythrocyte n-3 fatty acids with DXA-body fat and cardio-metabolic indices in middle-aged and elderly adults: a prospective study
Authors: Chen Yuming , Zeng Fang-fang , Lin Jie-sheng , Chen Gengdong , Ding Ding , Li Yi-hong
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Many clinical trials showed favorable effects of high-doses supplemental n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on cardio-metabolic risk factors. However, limited studies examined the prospective associations of circulating n-3 PUFA with body fat and its distribution, metabolic syndrome (MS), carotid atherosclerosis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in subjects with habitual diets containing low levels of n-3 PUFA.

Materials and Methods

This community-based prospective study enrolled 4048 participants (40–75 years) at baseline (2008–2010, 2013) from Guangzhou, China. They were followed-up approximately once every 3 years. Fatty acids in erythrocyte membranes were measured at baseline. We determined metabolic syndrome factors, body fat by DXA scanning, carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and NAFLD by ultrasound at the visits. General information, anthropometric indices, habitual dietary intake and other covariates were assessed at each visit.

Results

Among the total 4048 subjects, 3075 and 2671 subjects had erythrocyte n-3 PUFA data and completed the first and second follow-ups. Generally, erythrocyte n-3 PUFA were favorably associated with body fat (particularly at abdomen) and its changes, and with the presence and incidence of MS, type 2 diabetes, carotid IMT thickening. The participants with the highest (vs lowest) quartile of n-3 PUFA were associated with -5.81% fat mass (p < 0.001) and -2.11% of fat mass change at the abdomen (Android) area. The adjusted hazards ratios (95% CI) for the highest (vs. lowest) group were 0.74 (0.61, 0.89) (total n-3 PUFA), 0.71 (0.59, 0.86) (docosahexaenoic acid, DHA), 0.78 (0.65, 0.95) (docosapentaenoic acid, DPA), 1.96 (1.60, 2.40) (gamma-linolenic acid, GLA) for MS; 0.70(0.55, 0.90) (total n-3 PUFA), 0.67(0.52,0.87) (DHA) and 0.73(0.57,0.93) (DPA) for bifurcation IMT thickening, 0.57(0.38, 0.86) (eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA) and 0.63 (0.41, 0.95) (DPA) for type 2 diabetes, and 1.18 (1.09, 1.33) (DHA) for alleviated NAFLD. Both higher levels of total and individual marine n-3 PUFAs (DHA, EPA and DPA) were associated with lower blood pressure at baseline and lower changes in diastolic and systolic blood pressure over the follow-up period. Plant n-3 PUFA (α-linolenic acid, ALA) largely had less significant association with the above-mentioned indices as compared with marine n-3 PUFAs.

Discussion

Higher proportions of erythrocyte n-3 PUFA (particularly marine sources) was associated with lower body fat, blood pressure and their changes, and lower risks of MS, type 2 diabetes and bifurcation IMT thickening, but higher chance of alleviated NAFLD in middle-aged and older adults.
Impact of previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes on lifestyle habits in the next pregnancy
Authors: Laitinen Kirsi , Muhli Ella , Koivuniemi Ella
Published: June 2020

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a serious condition predisposing both the mother and child to health complications. Key means for treatment are lifestyle related, primarily adherence to a healthy diet and increase in physical activity. The aim of the study was to evaluate dietary quality and physical activity in early pregnancy of women reporting history of GDM compared to healthy women participating in a population-based study. Pregnant women were enrolled to the study by announcements in social media. The interested women (n = 1034) filled in an electronic questionnaire on their background data, validated Index of Diet Quality (IDQ) and index of leisure-time physical activity (MET-index) in early pregnancy. The protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Turku, Finland. The study population characteristics were representative of the Finnish pregnant women as compared with values reported in national perinatal statistics, except for overrepresentation of primiparas (54% compared to 41%) and underrepresentation of smokers during pregnancy (2.2% compared to 13%). Of the multiparas, 18.3% reported having been diagnosed with GDM in a previous pregnancy, which is in accordance to that in the general population (19%). Having a history of GDM was not reflected in the dietary quality in the present pregnancy. The IDQ score of the women with history of GDM (adj. mean 9.5) did not differ from those with no history (adj. mean 9.3, NS). When evaluating the categorized values, 45.8% of the women with the history of GDM and 45.4% of those without had a good dietary quality (IDQ score 10 or above). Similarly, the MET-index of the women with history of GDM (4.8 hrs/wk) did not differ from that of the women with no history (4.8 hrs/wk). Also, the categorized MET-index did not differ between the groups. The physical activity level of the women with history of GDM was light in the majority (52%) of the women, moderate in 41% and vigorous in 7%. Despite the known risks that GDM induces to health of the pregnant women and their babies, the dietary quality and physical activity of the women with a history of GDM did not differ from that of the women who were not previously affected. The results indicate that new means are needed alongside with the traditional counselling practices to motivate healthy lifestyle changes in pregnant women, particularly those at risk for recurrent GDM.
Development and feasibility testing of the smartphone-based dietary record app NutriDiary (beta version)
Authors: Conrad Johanna , Wiese Mats , Andone Ionut , Koch Stefanie , Markowetz Alexander , Alexy Ute , Nöthlings Ute
Published: June 2020

Smartphone technology has the potential to facilitate dietary assessment in epidemiological studies. Measurement error might be reduced by real time recording being more feasible with mobile methods. Our aim was to develop NutriDiary, a smartphone app for conducting three-day weighed dietary records. It provides a digital version of the established pen-and-paper method in the Dortmund Nutritional and Anthropometric Longitudinally Designed (DONALD) study, an open cohort study from infancy to adulthood. NutriDiary was developed as a text-based app including brand specific recording of food products. Usability of the beta version of NutriDiary was evaluated in the DONALD study. Participants or their parents were offered to test the app for the annual dietary record and were asked to fill in an app-integrated evaluation questionnaire. Usability was assessed by the System Usability Scale (SUS) and in-app behavior recordings. In the beta version of NutriDiary, a consumed food item is selected using a free-text search from the integrated in-house database LEBTAB. To ease the process of recording, NutriDiary offers some usability features such as a recipe editor, an integrated help mode and a photo function for collecting information on branded food products. In total, 32 mostly female participants (69%) used the app with 21 subjects recording their own dietary intake and 11 subjects conducting a record for their child. However, a relatively large proportion of DONALD participants also refused using the app because they preferred the traditional pen-and-paper method as being easier. Among participants of the feasibility study, subjective usability of NutriDiary was “good” but considerable differences in individual ratings were observed (median SUS = 80, IQR = 23.75, minimum = 45). Although 38% of participants reported technical issues, 88% stated they would use the app again. Technical problems included issues related to setting the time, editing of entered food items and the photo function. In-app behavior recordings showed that the help mode and recipe function were well-used (72% and 63%, respectively). Feedback from the study staff revealed that the post-processing of the dietary data obtained with NutriDiary was still time-consuming. Overall, the beta version of the NutriDiary app was well-received by most participants. Some aspects for improvement such as a barcode scanning function and extension of the database were identified. Moreover, NutriDiary will be further optimized by implementing an automated recipe simulation function.
Participant engagement with a text message delivered intervention for weight loss and maintenance of weight loss in the postpartum period
Authors: McGirr Caroline , Gallagher Dunla , Ciara Rooney , Dombrowsk Stephan , Anderson Annie , Cardwell Christopher , Free Caroline , Doddinott Pat , Holmes Valerie , McIntosh Emma , Somers Camilla , Woodside Jayne , Young Ian , Kee Frank , McKinley Michelle
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Postpartum weight management is difficult for many mothers due to the demands of parenthood. Women have highlighted a need for support but experience barriers to engaging with lifestyle interventions hence more adaptable approaches are required. This work examined participants’ engagement with a 12-month, theory-based, automated, text message (SMS) delivered, intervention supporting postpartum weight management.

Methods: SMS content was informed by: 1) the ‘Health Action Process Approach’ (HAPA)1; 2) behaviour change techniques associated with effectiveness in weight management interventions2; 3) women's accounts of postpartum weight-related experiences; and 4) personal and public involvement. A two-arm pilot RCT recruited women within two years postpartum, with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, through community sources and social media. Women were randomised via a secure remote system to receive the intervention or an active control delivering child development messages. Participants received 353 messages during the 12 month intervention. Two-way messages were used to assess engagement: 50 messages prompted women to respond with their weight; 36 interactive messages requested participants’ to respond ‘Yes/No’ to a question which then triggered a feedback message. Participant engagement with two-way messages was calculated as a percentage of replies sent by women and was categorised as ‘high’ or ‘low’ according to the median number of replies sent. Weight was measured at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months.

Results: 51 of 100 women recruited were randomised to receive the intervention. In months 0–6, (47%) and (95%) of participants responded to the weight messages and the ‘Yes/No’ messages respectively. In months 7–12, the responses were (77%) and (86%) respectively. Participants who were high engagers with weight messages had greater mean weight loss compared with low engagers at all time points: at 12 months high engagers (n = 18) lost -2.66 kg and had a reduction in waist circumference at 12 months of -8.9 cm, compared to changes in low engagers (n = 18) of -0.84 kg and -3.6 cm. Likewise, high engagers with ‘Yes/No’ messages had greater mean weight loss compared with low engagers at all time points: at 12 months high engagers (n = 16) lost -2.87 kg and had a reduction in waist circumference of -9.4 cm, compared to changes in low engagers (n = 20) of -0.86 kg and -3.6 cm.

Discussion: The use of two-way text messages was a useful way to encourage engagement with this SMS-delivered intervention. Higher engagement resulted in more weight loss compared to low engagement.
Percentage contribution of reference recipes to Food Groups for Irish and UK Food Based Dietary Guidelines.
Authors: Abouhajar Sali , Dolan Michael , O'Kelly Damian , Kennedy Aileen , Younger Katherine , O'Sullivan Elizabeth , Douglas Frances
Published: June 2020

Food Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDG) are a set of recommendations that describe the quantity and types of foods to consume to promote healthy eating and prevent diseases such as obesity. However, when assessing compliance with FBDG, calculating contributions from composite dishes is challenging, since the specific recipe ingredients are often unknown. This project aims to establish proportional contribution of composite dishes to food groups defined by the Irish and UK FBDG. This will facilitate automated assessment of compliance with FBDG for users of novel technology such as Nutritics, a suite of integrated nutrition analysis software tools for healthcare professionals, educators and industries. Territory specific food composition data (n = 3291) for Ireland and the UK were downloaded from the 2015 McCance & Widdowson Composition of Foods Integrated Dataset (CoFIDs). Recipes were identified and classified into groups broadly aligned with the food groups defined in the Healthy Food for Life Ireland and the Eatwell Guide UK. Supplementary recipe details were accessed from McCance & Widdowson 7th Edition book and online resources. Recipes were categorised by recipe type and ingredients were categorised into food groups. Percentage contribution of each food group to the total recipe was calculated. Of the 3,291 foods, 1,108 were classified as recipes, details were available for 138 of these. Of the 138 recipes, there were fruit & vegetable dishes (n = 20), breads, potatoes, pasta and rice dishes (n = 12), meat, fish and alternative protein sources dishes (n = 40), dairy dishes (n = 23), high fat/oil, sugar, salt dishes (n = 43). For fruit & vegetable dishes, the median percentage contribution to the fruit & vegetable food group was 67% (15% min/ 100% max). For breads, potatoes, pasta and rice dishes the median percentage contribution to the breads, potatoes, pasta and rice food group was 53% (17% min/ 89% max). For meat, fish and alternative protein sources dishes, the median percentage contribution to meat, fish and alternative protein sources food group was 55% (16% min/ 85% max), for dairy dishes, the median percentage contribution to the dairy food group was 90% (53% min/ 96% max). For high fat/oil, sugar, salt dishes the median percentage contribution to the high fat/oil, sugar, salt food group was 22% (3% min/ 97% max). The calculation of recipes into percentage contribution to food groups can support assessment of adherence to FBDG when using reference recipes. This is a useful tool to support healthcare professionals when assessing dietary intake where specific recipe components are unknown.