Search

Background: Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are two omega-3 fatty acids that can be synthesized out of their precursor alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). FADS and ELOVL genes encode the desaturase and elongase enzymes required for EPA and DHA synthesis from ALA; however, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in FADS and ELOVL genes could modify the levels of EPA and DHA synthesized from ALA although there is no consensus in this area. This review aims to investigate EPA and DHA circulating levels in human blood and their association with FADS or ELOVL. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases were used to identify research articles. They were subsequently reviewed by two independent investigators. Results: Initially, 353 papers were identified. After removing duplicates and articles not meeting inclusion criteria, 98 full text papers were screened. Finally, this review included 40 studies investigating FADS and/or ELOVL polymorphisms. A total of 47 different SNPs in FADS genes were reported. FADS1 rs174537, rs174547, rs174556 and rs174561 were the most studied SNPs, with minor allele carriers having lower levels of EPA and DHA. SNPs in the FADS genes were in high linkage disequilibrium. SNPs in FADS were correlated with levels of EPA and DHA. No conclusion could be drawn with the ELOVL polymorphisms since the number of studies was too low. Conclusion: Specific SNPs in FADS gene, such as rs174537, have strong associations with circulating levels of EPA and DHA. Continued investigation regarding the impact of genetic variants related to EPA and DHA synthesis is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the tuna purse seine fishery, seiners spend a considerable amount of time detecting objects such as seabirds, for which radar is a very efficient method. In this study, we present a radar image seabird identification method that can calculate the number of clusters, the area of seabird clusters, and the activity level of seabird clusters. We used a fishing vessel's radar to collect information on seabird groups within 29,632 km of the vessel and calculated a spatial clustering of the seabird-echoes. Generalized additive mixed models (GAMM) were used to investigate the relationship between drifting fish aggregating devices (FADs) and seabird dynamics in the Republic of Kiribati. The findings indicate that FAD variables affected seabird behavior. The random effects on cluster number, cluster area, and cluster ability were 3.27, 17.41, and −0.17, respectively. Then, we compared the radar image information that was calculated. The bird cluster around drifting FADs was found to be more concentrated and denser than in areas without FADs, with a lower level of activity observed. The longitude of 165°E had the highest number of bird clusters and the greatest area inhabited by birds, but these decreased to the east. However, model 3 showed that the minimum value of seabird cluster activity level occurred around 165°E and increased to the east. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate associations between substitutions of foods varying in fat quality and all-cause mortality in elderly Swedish men and to examine effect measure modification by a gene involved in fatty acid desaturation (rs174550 FADS1). Methods: Using Cox-regression models in the ULSAM cohort (n = 1133 men aged 71), we aimed to investigate; (1) Associations between the substitution of a nutrient or food for another on all-cause mortality (primary outcome) and CVD (secondary outcome) and (2) Associations between the addition of various fat-rich foods to the habitual diet and all-cause mortality and CVD. Subgroup analyses based on the rs174550 FADS1 genotype were conducted. Results: Over a mean follow-up of 11.6–13.7 years, n = 774 died and n = 494 developed CVD, respectively. No clear associations were observed for the vast majority of substitution nor addition models. Adding saturated fatty acids (SFA) on top of the habitual diet was however associated with an increased risk of mortality in men with the CT/CC-genotype [HR (95% CI) 1.44 (1.05, 1.97)]. Post-hoc analyses showed an inverse association of substituting SFA with carbohydrates [HR (95% CI) 0.79 (0.65, 0.97)], which was somewhat stronger in men with the CT/CC-genotype compared to men carrying the TT-genotype. Conclusions: Few associations were observed between diet and all-cause mortality and CVD in this population. However, substituting SFA with carbohydrates was associated with lower mortality in post-hoc analyses and adding SFA to the habitual diet increased mortality in men with the CT/CC-genotype. The latter observation is novel and warrants further investigation in larger cohort studies including women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The act of using bait can attract fish by stimulating them physically or chemically. To conserve marine resources and improve fishing efficiency, it's essential to understand how catch is influenced, such as the color of artificial bait chosen. This study aimed to determine how the color of artificial bait affects the catch of selar fish (Selar crumenopthalmus) and layang fish (Decapterus ruselli). Fishing experiments were conducted using bait of different colors on handline fishing gear in the FAD area, resulting in the capture of 360 fish. The catch included 214 Selar fish (Selar crumenopthalmus) (60%), 104 layang fish (Decapterus Russelli) (29%), 19 Mackerel fish (Rastreliger sp) (5%), Pitcher fish (Mene Maculata) 15 fish (4%) and Pompano fish (Charanx ignobilis) 8 fish (2%). The red color was found to provide the highest number of catches, with trevally (Selar crumenopthalmus) dominating with 86 (40.18%) and flying fish (Decapterus Russelli) with 39 (37.5%). The study concluded that the time and color of the bait have a significant influence on the number of catches. Red bait was found to be more effective in catching trevally (Selar crumenothalmus) and scalloped scallops (Decapterus Russelli) in the afternoon, resulting in a greater number of catches compared to other colors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane fatty acid desaturase (FADS)‐like superfamily proteins (FADSs) are essential for the synthesis of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). Recently, studies on FADS in fishes have mostly focused on marine species, and a comprehensive analysis of the FADS superfamily, including the FADS, stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD), and sphingolipid delta 4‐desaturase (DEGS) families, in freshwater economic fishes is urgently required. To this end, we conducted a thorough analysis of the number, gene/protein structure, chromosomal location, gene linkage map, phylogeny, and expression of the FADS superfamily. We identified 156 FADSs genes in the genome of 27 representative species. Notably, FADS1 and SCD5 were lost in most freshwater fish and other teleosts. All FADSs proteins contain 4 transmembrane helices and 2–3 amphipathic α‐helices. FADSs in the same family are often linked on the same chromosome; moreover, FADS and SCD or DEGS are frequently collocated on the same chromosome. In addition, FADS, SCD, and DEGS family proteins share similar evolutionary patterns. Interestingly, FADS6, as a member of the FADS family, exhibits a similar gene structure and chromosome location to that of SCD family members, which may be the transitional form of FADS and SCD. This study shed light on the type, structure, and phylogenetic relationship of FADSs in freshwater fishes, offering a new perspective into the functional mechanism analysis of FADSs.

Given the size of the community and the constant flow of new issues and potential security challenges, strategic studies can lend itself to surges of interest in particular topics that then fade into irrelevance, speculative investigations that lead nowhere, or intensive research projects that produce banal conclusions. The durability of much of the research may turn out to be short yet there is still enough that is of value, including insights into the behaviour of organisations and states, concepts that help structure thinking on a range of issues, as well as timely and well-judged policy guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since its substantive development after the Second World War, Strategic Studies has seen different waves of research foci, each rising as the other declines. This special issue uses a 'fashion' lens to analyse these frequent thematical shifts and their related conceptual creations. It looks at both long-term and short-term changes in strategic thought, addressing changes in content and their underlying dynamics and patterns. This issue contributes to our understanding of the history and sociology of Strategic Studies, but also sheds new light on recent debates in the field, including on hybrid warfare, counterinsurgency, and cyber war. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fabric air dispersion system (FADS) is a type of flexible air supply system that integrates air transmission and distribution. This innovative system has the potential to address common issues such as uneven air supply and surface condensation, which are often associated with traditional ventilation systems. Existing numerical simulation studies on fiber ducts have encountered problems with mesh generation and simulation accuracy. This work develops a simulation method based on the equivalent discounting method to overcome these challenges. The proposed method is utilized to investigate the flow and heat transfer characteristics inside fiber ducts while also examining the effects of various shapes and opening configurations. The findings indicate that the temperature rise inside the duct is positively correlated with flow rate, with higher temperatures resulting from faster flow speeds. The temperature rise of FADS with four rows of openings increased by 0.4 k compared to other opening methods. Additionally, the study shows that increasing the number of rows of openings in the fiber duct leads to a faster decay of flow velocity and a higher temperature rise. At the same time, increasing the number of openings in the duct slightly reduces flow velocity while slightly increasing the temperature rise. The presence of more fiber duct elbows leads to greater local resistance, which accelerates the decay of the flow velocity and increases the temperature rise. Compared to the "1"-shaped FADS, the temperature rises of the "L"-shaped and "U"-shaped systems have increased by 0.9 k and 2.9 k, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane fatty acid desaturase (FADS)‐like superfamily proteins (FADSs) are essential for the synthesis of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). Recently, studies on FADS in fishes have mostly focused on marine species, and a comprehensive analysis of the FADS superfamily, including the FADS, stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD), and sphingolipid delta 4‐desaturase (DEGS) families, in freshwater economic fishes is urgently required. To this end, we conducted a thorough analysis of the number, gene/protein structure, chromosomal location, gene linkage map, phylogeny, and expression of the FADS superfamily. We identified 156 FADSs genes in the genome of 27 representative species. Notably, FADS1 and SCD5 were lost in most freshwater fish and other teleosts. All FADSs proteins contain 4 transmembrane helices and 2–3 amphipathic α‐helices. FADSs in the same family are often linked on the same chromosome; moreover, FADS and SCD or DEGS are frequently collocated on the same chromosome. In addition, FADS, SCD, and DEGS family proteins share similar evolutionary patterns. Interestingly, FADS6, as a member of the FADS family, exhibits a similar gene structure and chromosome location to that of SCD family members, which may be the transitional form of FADS and SCD. This study shed light on the type, structure, and phylogenetic relationship of FADSs in freshwater fishes, offering a new perspective into the functional mechanism analysis of FADSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the periodical's evolving focus across centuries, indicating a quantitative shift from earlier pre-Reformation studies towards biographical accounts and an inclination toward Presbyterian history. It also highlights the society's historical emphasis, noting a waning attention to certain periods and denominations, while seeing a surge in interest in others, such as the Highland and Island regions.

ABSTRACT: Chicken is considered an ideal model species to study the synthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) due to its appropriate proportions of fatty acids and abundant content of PUFAs, suitable for human consumption. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating poultry PUFA synthesis remain unclear. Here, we systematically explored the transcriptional regulation activity of the gene family related to PUFA synthesis in chicken by carrying out the Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay. We identified the core promoter regions of members of the chicken PUFA synthesis-related gene family, including ELOVL1, ELOVL2, ELOVL3, ELOVL4, ELOVL5, ELOVL6, ELOVL7, FADS1, FADS2, FADS6, SCD, and SCD5. Additionally, changes in relative fluorescence values of different truncated segments in the upstream regulatory region of these genes indicate the existence of regulatory regions. Furthermore, we predicted the transcription factors that bind to the identified core promoter regions of multiple genes, including Sp1, NF-1, C/EBPalpha, etc. These findings provide a basis for the molecular mechanisms regulating poultry PUFA synthesis and offer new scientific insight into the potential improvement of poultry meat quality in the future.

Linseed oil, an important source of dietary α-linolenic acid, is used to provide meat enriched in n-3 PUFA. We investigated the effects of dietary linseed oil (0, 0.5, 1, and 2%) on growth performance, meat quality, tissue fatty acid (FA), and transcriptome profiles in ducks. The result showed that dietary linseed oil had no effect on growth performance. Increasing dietary linseed oil enrichment raised n-3 PUFA and linoleic acid (LA) levels in both the liver and breast muscle, but decreased dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) levels in the liver. The liver n-3 PUFA content was negatively correlated with duck body weight. Transcriptome analysis showed that dietary linseed oil caused hepatic changes in genes (SCD, FADS1, FADS2, and ACOT6) related to the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. Besides, dietary linseed oil also affected the expression of genes related to PUFAs and downstream metabolites (such as linoleic acid, steroid hormone, progesterone, etc.) metabolic pathways in both liver and breast muscle. Key genes involved in PUFA synthesis and transport pathways were examined by RT-qPCR, and the results verified that hepatic expression levels of FADS1 and FADS2 decreased, and those of FABP4 and FABP5 increased when 2% linseed oil was added. CD36 expression level increased in breast muscle when 2% linseed oil was added. Thus, 2% dietary linseed oil supplementation produces n-3 PUFA-enriched duck products by regulating the PUFA metabolic pathways, which could be advantageous for health-conscious consumers.

The capacity for long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) biosynthesis activity in a species depends on the enzymatic activities of fatty acyl desaturase (Fads) and elongation of very long-chain fatty acid (Elovl). The miniaturized fish Paedocypris micromegethes is a developmentally truncated cyprinid living in highly acidic water conditions in tropical peat swamps. The capacity for LC-PUFA biosynthesis in this species, which has a reduced genome size, is unknown. A high-quality de novo transcriptome assembly enabled the identification of a putative Fads2 and four Elovl. The Fads2 was verified as a P. micromegethes Fads2 ortholog with in vitro Δ5 and Δ6 activities. The Elovl sequences were established as an Elovl5, Elovl2, and two Elovl4 paralogs, namely Elovl4a and Elovl4b. These Elovl enzymes, mainly Elovl5 and Elovl2, fulfill the necessary C18, C20, and C22 PUFA elongation steps for LC-PUFA biosynthesis. Collectively, these results validate the presence of a complete repertoire of LC-PUFA biosynthesis enzymes in a peat swamp miniatured freshwater fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FADS genes encode fatty acid desaturases that are important for the conversion of short chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to long chain fatty acids. Prior studies indicate that the FADS genes have been subjected to strong positive selection in Africa, South Asia, Greenland, and Europe. By comparing FADS sequencing data from present-day and Bronze Age (5-3k years ago) Europeans, we identify possible targets of selection in the European population, which suggest that selection has targeted different alleles in the FADS genes in Europe than it has in South Asia or Greenland. The alleles showing the strongest changes in allele frequency since the Bronze Age show associations with expression changes and multiple lipid-related phenotypes. Furthermore, the selected alleles are associated with a decrease in linoleic acid and an increase in arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids among Europeans; this is an opposite effect of that observed for selected alleles in Inuit from Greenland. We show that multiple SNPs in the region affect expression levels and PUFA synthesis. Additionally, we find evidence for a gene-environment interaction influencing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels between alleles affecting PUFA synthesis and PUFA dietary intake: carriers of the derived allele display lower LDL cholesterol levels with a higher intake of PUFAs. We hypothesize that the selective patterns observed in Europeans were driven by a change in dietary composition of fatty acids following the transition to agriculture, resulting in a lower intake of arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, but a higher intake of linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid.

A fabric air dispersion system (FADS) is a type of flexible air supply system that integrates air transmission and distribution. This innovative system has the potential to address common issues such as uneven air supply and surface condensation, which are often associated with traditional ventilation systems. Existing numerical simulation studies on fiber ducts have encountered problems with mesh generation and simulation accuracy. This work develops a simulation method based on the equivalent discounting method to overcome these challenges. The proposed method is utilized to investigate the flow and heat transfer characteristics inside fiber ducts while also examining the effects of various shapes and opening configurations. The findings indicate that the temperature rise inside the duct is positively correlated with flow rate, with higher temperatures resulting from faster flow speeds. The temperature rise of FADS with four rows of openings increased by 0.4 k compared to other opening methods. Additionally, the study shows that increasing the number of rows of openings in the fiber duct leads to a faster decay of flow velocity and a higher temperature rise. At the same time, increasing the number of openings in the duct slightly reduces flow velocity while slightly increasing the temperature rise. The presence of more fiber duct elbows leads to greater local resistance, which accelerates the decay of the flow velocity and increases the temperature rise. Compared to the “1”-shaped FADS, the temperature rises of the “L”-shaped and “U”-shaped systems have increased by 0.9 k and 2.9 k, respectively.

Mollusks are excellent dietary sources for LC-PUFA. However, the main challenge limiting mollusk production is the high mortality rate of molluskan larvae in early life cycle stages. This paper reviews scientific evidences on molecular and biochemical studies of LC-PUFA biosynthesis in commercially important molluskan species. It carefully summarizes the pertinent data published on specific research questions to improve the understanding of the diverse evidences. It is helpful to clarify the current state of research and determine topics for future studies on LC-PUFA biosynthesis in mollusks. From the analysis of published data, mollusks have the ability to biosynthesis LC-PUFA to a certain extent. LC-PUFA biosynthesis information of commercially important molluskan species can be useful to determine the fatty acids essential for their diet. Therefore, specific management strategies or feeds can be developed to strengthen the industry by improving the health and survival rate of molluskan larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lethal congenital contracture syndrome 11 (LCCS11) is a form of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) which is associated with mutations in the gliomedin gene (GLDN) and has been known to be severely life-shortening, mainly due to respiratory insufficiency. Patients with this condition have been predominantly treated by pediatricians as they usually do not survive beyond childhood. In this case report, we present a young adult who developed severe progressive respiratory insufficiency as a teenager due to diaphragmatic hypomotility and was diagnosed with LCCS11 following the discovery of compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in GLDN. This case demonstrates the importance of screening for neuromuscular diseases in well-child visits and follow-ups of patients at risk for gross and fine motor function developmental delay. It also underscores the significance of including LCCS11 and other axonopathies in the differential diagnosis of juvenile onset of respiratory insufficiency, highlights that patients with this condition may present to adult practitioners and questions whether the nomenclature of this condition with various phenotypes should be reconsidered due to the stigmatizing term 'lethal'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Chilling injury (CI) is a physiological disorder that results in a limitation for cold storage (CS) of many fruits and vegetables. The low temperature‐induced changes in the properties and composition of cell membranes are involved in the response to chilling temperature and in the mechanism of CI and tolerance. RESULTS: We compared the changes in the lipid composition by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry before, immediately after CS, as well as during a 3‐day subsequent period, of tomato fruits with different chilling‐sensitivity: Micro‐Tom (tolerant) and Minitomato (susceptible). The changes in linolenic acid content, double bond index and digalactosyldiacylglycerol/monogalactosyldiacylglycerol ratio (DGDG/MGDG) showed membrane fluidity adjustment, depending on the temperature. By a database search, we identified 18 membrane‐bound fatty acid desaturase (FAD) genes and five DGDG synthases (DGD) genes that phylogenetically clustered into four and two subfamilies, respectively. The FAD and DGD genes were differentially expressed in response to CS, as determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction analysis. CONCLUSION: The data strongly suggest that reversion of CS‐induced changes during the recovery period is important for the proper function of the membrane and tolerance to postharvest CI in tomato fruit. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, 1 in 11 adults has diabetes mellitus, and most of these cases are type 2 diabetes (T2D). The risk of T2D is influenced by many factors, including diet. The synthesis of long-chain n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-6 PUFA) has been posited as a risk factor for T2D; however, its causal role is uncertain. Aim: To test the causal effect of LC n-6 PUFA synthesis on insulin resistance and transgenerational T2D risk in a large cohort of men and women. Methods: Two-sample mendelian randomization (MR) was conducted to evaluate the effect of low or high levels of LC n-6 PUFA synthesis on glycemia and development of T2D in the UK Biobank (n = 463,010) and Meta-Analysis of Glucose- and Insulin-Related Traits Consortium (MAGIC; n = 5,130) cohorts. The increased likelihood of a predisposition to low or high LC n-6 PUFA synthesis and the risk of T2D was also investigated using the participants’ siblings and parents. In MR-Base, 4 genetic variants associated with LC n-6 PUFA synthesis were found (p < 10–8). After pruning, 1 variant (rs174547) on the FADS1 gene was retained. Results: Lower LC n-6 PUFA synthesis and abundance (per % unit decrease) are associated with small reductions in the insulin disposition index (–0.038 ± 0.012 mM–1; p = 0.002) within MAGIC. In the UK Biobank, we report negligible effects of low n-6 PUFA synthesis on the odds of T2D (OR

We report the third case of FADS due to biallelic DOK7 variants, which further strengthens the association of DOK7 with this lethal phenotype and lack of genotype phenotype correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimal maternal long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) status is essential for the developing fetus. The fatty acid desaturase (FADS) genes are involved in the endogenous synthesis of LCPUFA. The minor allele of various FADS SNP have been associated with increased maternal concentrations of the precursors linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA), and lower concentrations of arachidonic acid (AA) and DHA. There is limited research on the influence of FADS genotype on cord PUFA status. The current study investigated the influence of maternal and child genetic variation in FADS genotype on cord blood PUFA status in a high fish-eating cohort. Cord blood samples (n 1088) collected from the Seychelles Child Development Study (SCDS) Nutrition Cohort 2 (NC2) were analysed for total serum PUFA. Of those with cord PUFA data available, maternal (n 1062) and child (n 916), FADS1 (rs174537 and rs174561), FADS2 (rs174575), and FADS1-FADS2 (rs3834458) were determined. Regression analysis determined that maternal minor allele homozygosity was associated with lower cord blood concentrations of DHA and the sum of EPA + DHA. Lower cord blood AA concentrations were observed in children who were minor allele homozygous for rs3834458 (β = 0·075; P = 0·037). Children who were minor allele carriers for rs174537, rs174561, rs174575 and rs3834458 had a lower cord blood AA:LA ratio (P < 0·05 for all). Both maternal and child FADS genotype were associated with cord LCPUFA concentrations, and therefore, the influence of FADS genotype was observed despite the high intake of preformed dietary LCPUFA from fish in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although DHA (22:6n-3) is critical for fetal development, results from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of prenatal DHA supplementation report inconsistent effects on offspring health. Variants in fatty acid desaturase (FADS) genes that regulate the conversion of n-3 and n-6 essential fatty acids into their biologically active derivatives may explain this heterogeneity.Objectives: We investigated the effect of prenatal DHA supplementation on the offspring metabolome at age 3 mo and explored differences by maternal FADS single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs174602.Methods: Data were obtained from a double-blind RCT in Mexico [POSGRAD (Prenatal Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation and Child Growth and Development)] in which women (18-35 y old) received DHA (400 mg/d) or placebo from mid-gestation until delivery. Using high-resolution MS with LC, untargeted metabolomics was performed on 112 offspring plasma samples. Discriminatory metabolic features were selected via linear regression (P < 0.05) with false discovery rate (FDR) correction (q = 0.2). Interaction by SNP rs174602 was assessed using 2-factor ANOVA. Stratified analyses were performed, where the study population was grouped into carriers (TT, TC; n = 70) and noncarriers (CC; n = 42) of the minor allele. Pathway enrichment analysis was performed with Mummichog (P < 0.05).Results: After FDR correction, there were no differences in metabolic features between infants whose mothers received prenatal DHA (n = 58) and those whose mothers received placebo (n = 54). However, we identified 343 differentially expressed features in the interaction analysis after FDR correction. DHA supplementation positively enriched amino acid and aminosugars metabolism pathways and decreased fatty acid metabolism pathways among offspring of minor allele carriers and decreased metabolites within the tricarboxylic acid cycle and galactose metabolism pathways among offspring of noncarriers.Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate differences in infant metabolism in response to prenatal DHA supplementation by maternal SNP rs174602 and further support the need to incorporate genetic analysis of FADS polymorphisms into DHA supplementation trials.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00646360. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite limited evidence, children with neurodevelopmental and psychological disorders may be having dietary interventions incorporated into treatment. Little is known about psychologists' role in influencing these decisions. Australian psychologists working with children (N=60) completed the Nutritional Competence Tool, and questions exploring psychologist attitudes, self-reported competence and practices associated with the use of dietary interventions for children presenting for psychological treatment of psychological disorders. Most respondents reported positive attitudes towards dietary interventions. Incorporating dietary interventions into clinical practice was common, with 56.7% reporting they would be likely to recommend one or more dietary interventions pre-specified for one of the conditions explored. Participants were most likely to endorse the use of dietary interventions for children presenting with oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder or other behavioural problems. Despite training in evidence-based practice, some registered psychologists have positive attitudes towards dietary modifications in the treatment of children with psychological conditions, and may be susceptible to recommending dietary interventions, regardless of the limited evidence base. The conditions for which recommendations were most likely, as well as diets most commonly recommended had hallmark features of "fads", raising several ethical concerns. Further research should determine how widespread this practise is. Key Points What is already known about this topic: Dietary interventions do not have a robust evidence-base in treating psychological and neurodevelopmental disorders. Children often receive dietary modification to aid the amelioration of symptoms of psychological and neurodevelopmental disorders. Limited research suggests that psychologists may be contributing to the use of complementary and alternative treatments. What this paper adds: Some psychologists have positive attitudes towards dietary interventions for a range of psychological disorders in childhood. Some psychologists report that they are likely to recommend dietary interventions for children presenting for psychological treatment. Oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder were the conditions most likely elicit information about dietary interventions or recommendations to consider a dietary interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flush Air Data Sensing System (FADS) is an important subsystem required for a winged re-entry vehicle. It essentially makes use of surface pressure measurements located at a suitable position in the vehicle for deriving the air data parameters of the vehicle such as angle of attack, angle of sideslip, Mach number, etc. These air data parameters are used by the control and guidance system for carrying out gain scheduling, trim scheduling of control surfaces and overall flight management. The accuracy of the pressure sensors used in FADS is critical in achieving the targeted accuracy of the air data parameters. In the FADS system considered in this paper, piezoresistive MEMS-based pressure sensors are used. The FADS system is located in the nosecone of the vehicle which is a region prone to vibration during transportation as well as during flight. It is essential that the pressure sensors perform with the desired accuracies in spite of the vibration environment. Sine and random vibration testing are carried out as part of qualification testing of the vibration sensors of FADS. Analysis of the test results shows that the accuracies demanded by the system are provided by the pressure sensors under the vibration environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) can be synthesised endogenously from linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) in a pathway involving the fatty acid desaturase (FADS) genes. Endogenous synthesis is inefficient; therefore, dietary intake of preformed LCPUFA from their richest source of fish is preferred. This study investigated the effect of fish consumption on PUFA concentrations in women of childbearing age while stratifying by FADS genotype. The influence of fish consumption on lipid profile, and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress was also examined. Methods: Healthy women (n = 49) provided a buccal swab which was analysed for FADS2 genotype (rs3834458; T/deletion). Participants were stratified according to genotype and randomised to an intervention group to receive either no fish (n = 18), 1 portion (n = 14) or 2 portions (n = 17) (140 g per portion) of fish per week for a period of 8 weeks. Serum PUFA was analysed at baseline and post-intervention. Lipid profile, and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress were also analysed. Results: Participants consuming 2 portions of fish per week had significantly higher concentrations of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and total n-3 PUFA, and a lower n-6:n-3 ratio compared to those in the no fish or 1 portion per week group (all p < 0.05). Fish consumption did not have a significant effect on biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation and lipid profile in the current study. Conclusion: Consumption of 2 portions of fish per week has beneficial effects on biological n-3 PUFA concentrations in women of childbearing age; however, no effects on oxidative stress, inflammation or lipid profile were observed. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03765580), registered December 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Fetal arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) describes a heterogeneous disease entity characterized by multiple contractures affecting at least two different body areas. The aim of our study was to identify additional sonographic abnormalities in fetuses with AMC Type I–III associated with an unfavorable prognosis and to describe when those signs were first detected. Methods: This retrospective study included 41 pregnancies of suspected AMC diagnosed 1999–2017 at our tertiary referral center. The affected pregnancies were divided into the 3 AMC subgroups; the time of detection and outcome were analyzed. Prenatal sonograms, pediatric charts, genetic tests, and autopsy reports were studied. Results: Pregnancy outcome data were verifiable in 34 out of 41 cases; in 27 cases, AMC was confirmed. Hydrops was present in 50% of postnatally deceased fetuses, 53% of cases resulting in termination of pregnancy vs. 0% of the surviving 8 children. Absent stomach filling was found in 67% of the children with neonatal death. After subcategorization, the limb-involvement-only-group, 8% showed hydrops vs. 100% in system anomaly group vs. 70% in neuromuscular dysfunction cohort (p = 0.001). Scoliosis, nuchal edema, and absent stomach filling were significantly indicating for a neurological etiology. Conclusion: In addition to disease-defining sonographic findings, those with prognostic significance were identified. Hydrops, nuchal edema, scoliosis and absent stomach filling were associated with unfavorable outcomes implicating a neuromuscular etiology. This knowledge can help to predict the further course of the disease and support patient counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses the origins and nature of the fad through a case study of the 'Dolly Varden' dress. The gown originated in the 1770s as a 'polonaise' among continental aristocracy, and experienced a minor revival in the 1840s when Dolly Varden, a character in Charles Dickens's novel Barnaby Rudge (1841) was depicted wearing it. But it did not become a fad until the 1870s, after a Dickens-owned painting of the character was sold and the gown re-entered the public eye. Having shed its historical or literary connections, the gown was revived again in Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera Patience (1881), a well-known send-up of Aesthetic foibles. Often overlooked is the fact that dairy maid Patience – who figures in the opera as a counterpoint to the lovesick maidens wearing high Aesthetic garb – wears a Dolly Varden gown, as faddish as any Aesthetic gown, only slightly outdated. The Aesthetic afterlife of the dress demonstrates the mutability of Victorian fads and the gleeful ignorance of antecedents that typifies fad culture. Facilitated by the material and commercial innovations of the period and fuelled by an insistent presentism, fads are – this article argues – a truly Victorian phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information cascades occur when decision-makers beyond some point in a decision-making sequence find that it is optimal to follow the decision that others have taken even if their own private information indicates a contrary course of action. Information cascades are studied because they can help us to explain decision-making conformity and behavior convergence, including fads and fashions. Cascades can be correct or incorrect, strong or fragile. The intelligence community has often been concerned with deception and disinformation. We call an incorrect information cascade precipitated by deception a 'disinformation cascade.' How easily can a disinformation cascade be started? How many intelligence officers must choose a certain way before a disinformation cascade starts? These are the questions we address in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Altered lipid metabolism in early life has been associated with subsequent weight gain and predicting this could aid in obesity prevention and risk management. Here, a lipidomic approach was used to identify circulating markers for future obesity risk in translational murine models and validate in a human infant cohort. Methods: Lipidomics was performed on the plasma of APOE*3 Leiden, Ldlr-/-.Leiden, and the wild-type C57BL/6J mice to capture candidate biomarkers predicting subsequent obesity parameters after exposure to high-fat diet. The identified candidate biomarkers were mapped onto corresponding lipid metabolism pathways and were investigated in the Cambridge Baby Growth Study. Infants’ growth and adiposity were measured at 0-24 months. Capillary dried blood spots were sampled at 3 months for lipid profiling analysis. Findings: From the mouse models, cholesteryl esters were correlated with subsequent weight gain and other obesity parameters after HFD period (Spearman's r≥0.5, FDR p values

Background: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in fatty acid desaturase (FADS) genes may modify dietary fatty acid requirements and influence cardiometabolic health (CMH)., Objectives: We evaluated the role of selected variants in maternal and offspring FADS genes on offspring CMH at the age of 11 y and assessed interactions of genotype with diet quality and prenatal docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation., Methods: We used data from offspring (n = 203) born to females who participated in a randomized controlled trial of DHA supplementation (400 mg/d) from midgestation to delivery. We generated a metabolic syndrome (MetS) score from body mass index, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, systolic blood pressure, and fasting glucose and identified 6 distinct haplotypes from 5 offspring FADS SNPs. Dietary n-6 (ω-6):n-3 fatty acid ratios were derived from 24-h recall data (n = 141). We used generalized linear models to test associations of offspring diet and FADS haplotypes with MetS score and interactions of maternal and offspring FADS SNP rs174602 with prenatal treatment group and dietary n-6:n-3 ratio on MetS score., Results: Associations between FADS haplotypes and MetS score were null. Offspring SNP rs174602 did not modify the association of prenatal DHA supplementation with MetS score. Among children with TT or TC genotype for SNP rs174602 (n = 88), those in the highest n-6:n-3 ratio tertile (>8.61) had higher MetS score relative to the lowest tertile [<6.67) (Δ= 0.36; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03, 0.69]. Among children with CC genotype (n = 53), those in the highest n-6:n-3 ratio tertile had a lower MetS score relative to the lowest tertile (Δ= -0.23; 95% CI: -0.61, 0.16)., Conclusions: There was evidence of an interaction of offspring FADS SNP rs174602 with current dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid intake, but not with prenatal DHA supplementation, on MetS score. Further studies may help to determine the utility of targeted supplementation strategies and dietary recommendations based on genetic profile., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Man-made floating objects in the surface of tropical oceans, also called drifting fish aggregating devices (DFADs), attract tens of marine species, including tunas and non-tuna species. In the Indian Ocean, around 80% of the sets currently made by the EU purse-seine fleet are on DFADs. Due to the importance and value of this fishery, understanding the habitat characteristics and dynamics of pelagic species aggregated under DFADs is key to improve fishery management and fishing practices. This study implements Bayesian hierarchical spatial models to investigate tuna and non-tuna species seasonal distribution based on fisheries-independent data derived from fishers’ echo-sounder buoys, environmental information (Sea Surface Temperature, Chlorophyll, Salinity, Eddie Kinetic Energy, Oxygen concentration, Sea Surface Height, Velocity and Heading) and DFAD variables (DFAD identification, days at sea). Results highlighted group-specific spatial distributions and habitat preferences, finding higher probability of tuna presence in warmer waters, with higher sea surface height and low eddy kinetic energy values. In contrast, highest probabilities of non-tuna species were found in colder and productive waters. Days at sea were relevant for both groups, with higher probabilities at objects with higher soak time. Our results also showed species-specific temporal distributions, suggesting that both tuna and non-tuna species may have different habitat preferences depending on the monsoon period. The new findings provided by this study will contribute to the understanding of the ecology and behavior of target and non-target species and their sustainable management.

Summary: Monoclonal antibodies are a main player in modern drug discovery. Many antibody screening formats exist, each with specific advantages and limitations. Nonetheless, it remains challenging to screen antibodies for the binding of cell-surface receptors (the most important class of all drug targets) or for the binding to target cells rather than purified proteins. Here, we present a high-throughput droplet microfluidics approach employing dual-color normalized fluorescence readout to detect antibody binding. This enables us to obtain quantitative data on target cell recognition, using as little as 33 fg of IgG per assay. Starting with an excess of hybridoma cells releasing unspecific antibodies, individual clones secreting specific binders (of target cells co-encapsulated into droplets) could be enriched 220-fold after sorting 80,000 clones in a single experiment. This opens the way for therapeutic antibody discovery, especially since the single-cell approach is in principle also applicable to primary human plasma cells.