bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phloretin reduced the secretion of IL‐8 in retinal pigment epithelial cells suffering from mitochondrial dysfunction via activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (NFE2L2/Nrf2)
Authors: Hytti Maria , Bhattarai Niina , Kanerva IIris , Pitkänen Viola , Ruuth Johanna , Kauppinen Anu
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Phloretin is a natural polyphenol that is present e.g. in apple and pear trees. Previous research has demonstrated that phloretin has anti‐inflammatory properties. Inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction play key roles in the development of age‐related macular degeneration, the most common cause of vision loss amongst the elderly in the developed countries. Here, we assessed the effects of phloretin in a model of mitochondrial damage‐induced inflammation in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells.

Methods

ARPE‐19 cells were exposed to 25 µM antimycin A for 24 hr to induce mitochondrial dysfunction. Cells were pretreated with 100 µM phloretin for 1 hour and cell viability as well as the release of pro‐inflammatory interleukines (IL)‐6, IL‐8 and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was studied. The effect of either high glucose or glucose‐free culture medium was assessed. ELISA measurements of phosphorylated mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK), p38, JNK, and extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2) as well as of the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) were determined alongside the DNA binding efficiency of nuclear factor kB (NF‐kB) subunit p65 and of NFE2L2. Effects on ERK1/2 phosphorylation and NFE2L2 DNA binding were confirmed using the MAPK kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) inhibitor PD98059, the NFE2L2 activator sulforaphane, and specific NFE2L2 siRNA.

Results

Phloretin significantly reduced the levels of IL‐6, IL‐8, and VEGF in the presence and the absence of antimycin A, without affecting cellular viability. Higher levels or absence of glucose had no effect on the anti‐inflammatory activities of phloretin. Pathway analysis showed that phloretin‐activated ERK1/2 phosphorylation but this was not related to its anti‐inflammatory effects as preventing ERK1/2 phosphorylation using PD98059 decreased inflammation even further. Instead, siRNA experiments revealed that NFE2L2 was involved in phloretin’s ameliorating effect on IL‐8 secretion.

Conclusions

Phloretin is a strong anti‐inflammatory agent that is well‐tolerated by RPE cells suffering from mitochondrial dysfunction.
Dry physical crosslinking of porcine corneal grafts. In vitro study
Authors: Popov Ilya , Anisimov Sergey
Published: January 2022

Purpose

(1) To compare the effects of wet and dry crosslinking (CL) on swell‐resistance of porcine corneal grafts; (2) for grafts obtained by dry physical CL methods, to evaluate some of their surgically relevant properties.

Methods

Experiment 1. The cornea was cut out of a frozen porcine eyeball with epithelium and Descemet's membrane removed. 30 such grafts were distributed into 10 groups of treatment (3 per group): five groups of wet grafts (wet control; Riboflavin/ultraviolet‐A CL at doses 5.4 and 54 J/cm2; glutaraldehyde CL at concentrations 0.1 and 1%) and five groups of air‐dried grafts (dry control; ultraviolet‐C (UVC) at doses of 5.4 and 54 J/cm2; dehydrothermal (DHT) CL at 80 and 105 °C). All grafts were immersed in distilled water for 24h, then their light transmission and swelling ratio were measured.

Experiment 2. 18 grafts (6 groups: wet non‐hydrated control; wet control; dry control; UVC 54 J/cm2; DHT 105°C; DHT 105°C + UVC 54 J/cm2) were immersed in water for 24 hr, then distant visual quality at 5 m, central thickness (CT) and suture retention strength (SRS) were tested. ANOVA and post‐hoc Tukey HSD tests were used.

Results

Exp. 1. There was a significant difference in water content and light transmission between all groups at 24h hydration (p < 0.05, ANOVA). DHT 105°C grafts had significantly lower water content and the highest light transmission in comparison to all other groups (p < 0.05 for each comparison, Tukey HSD).

Exp. 2. At 24 hr hydration, DHT+UVC treated grafts allowed distinguishing optotypes 0.4–0.6 (decimal). CT varied from 600 to 1200 microns for DHT+UVC and UVC groups, respectively. Control grafts swelled up to 6000 microns in the center. SRS of all grafts was significantly higher than the strength of the Nylon 9‐0 thread (p<0.05, Tukey HSD).

Conclusions

Dry physical CL methods allow obtaining corneal grafts with increased swell‐resistance compared to wet CL methods, while maintaining the strength sufficient for their surgical fixation.
Effectiveness of selective laser trabeculoplasty in advanced open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Monia Cheour , Meriem Ouederni , Fehmy Nafaa , Maamouri Rym , Hela Sassi
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To study the effectiveness and safety of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) for the treatment of advanced open‐angle glaucoma.

Methods

We carried out a prospective longitudinal study, including patients with advanced open‐angle glaucoma. Selective laser trabeculoplasty has been indicated either after failure of medical treatment or in cases of poor adherence to medical treatment. Measurements were obtained at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Success was defined as a reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) of more than 20% from baseline or a reduction of at least one antiglaucoma eye drops with stable intraocular pressure. A p value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

Fifty‐nine eyes were included in the study. Three types of glaucoma were present in our study: primary open‐angle glaucoma was the most common type followed by exfoliative glaucoma and pigmentary glaucoma. The success rate was 76.5% for failure of medical treatment and 80% for poor adherence. The most frequent side effects were the inflammatory reaction (18.6%) and the early IOP spikes (25.4%). The predictors of its effectiveness were the initial intraocular pressure (p = 0.03) and the percentage reduction in intraocular pressure at 1 month (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Selective laser trabeculoplasty is an effective and easy‐to‐perform physical treatment of advanced open‐angle glaucoma with a satisfactory safety profile (1,2). It overcomes poor adhesion problems. Our results need to be extended to assess long‐term success.

Bibliography

1. Garg A, Gazzard G. Selective laser trabeculoplasty: past, present, and future. Eye (Lond). 2018 May;32(5):863–876.

2. Sina Elahi, Harsha L Rao, Alina Dumitru, Kaweh Mansouri. Predictors of Success in Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty: Data From the Lausanne Laser Trabeculoplasty Registry. J Glaucoma. 2020 Jul;29(7):550–555.
Fabrication of high‐efficiency Yb:Y2O3 laser ceramics without photodarkening
Authors: Li Qing , Wang Jun , Ma Jie , Ni Meng , Yang Fan , Liu Peng , Lee Kuo Yang , Hsiang Hsing‐I , Shen Deyuan , Tang Dingyuan
Published: January 2022

High‐efficiency Yb:Y2O3 laser ceramics were fabricated using the vacuum‐sintering plus hot isostatic pressing (HIP) without sintering additives. High‐purity well‐dispersed nanocrystalline Yb:Y2O3 powder was synthesized using a modified co‐precipitation method in‐house. The green bodies were first vacuum sintered at a temperature as low as 1430°C and then HIPed at 1450°C. Finally, the samples were air annealed at 800°C for 10 h. Although no sintering aids were used, full density of the samples with excellent optical homogeneity and an inline transmission of 80% at 400 nm could be obtained. Moreover, photodarkening phenomenon was not detected in the ceramics. Preliminary laser experiment with the fabricated ceramics in a two‐mirror cavity has demonstrated 32 W continuous‐wave (CW) output at ∼1077 nm with an optical‐to‐optical conversion efficiency of 58.2%. To the best of our knowledge, this is so far the highest CW output power and optical‐to‐optical conversion efficiency achieved with the Yb3+‐doped sesquioxide ceramics in a simple two‐mirror cavity.
Microstructure transformation of a crystallized glass from the system BaO‐SrO‐ZnO‐SiO2
Authors: Thieme Christian
Published: January 2022

Glass‐ceramics from the studied system are able to precipitate a crystalline phase with an anomalous and low coefficient of thermal expansion. Besides the crystalline phase called LEAZit (Low Expansion Alkaline Earth Zinc Silicate), other phases appear within those glass‐ceramics. In order to understand the thermal expansion behavior of the whole material, the phase content has to be known as a function of the composition and the chosen heat treatment. In this paper, a glass with the molar composition 5 BaO · 12 SrO · 35 ZnO · 46.2 SiO2 · 1.5 Sb2O3 · 0.3 Ag is studied using X‐ray tomography. With this method, the phase content can be studied in detail together with the microstructure. An ex‐situ workflow was used to study one and the same sample after different heat treatments, which makes it possible to characterize the structures (crystalline phase, residual matrix, and porosity) inside the sample in a nondestructive way. The size of the different phases was characterized with a strut thickness analysis of the three‐dimensional datasets. The tomographic results are supported by results from X‐ray diffraction as well as scanning electron microscopy in combination with elemental analysis.
Highly transparent cerium‐doped yttria ceramics for full‐band UV‐shielding window applications
Authors: Liu Chengrui , Jiang Juan , Zhou Guohong , Zhang Tianjin , Hu Song , Gan Lin , Qin Xianpeng
Published: January 2022

Highly transparent cerium‐doped yttria ceramics were fabricated via a pressureless sintering method with an addition of 10 at.% La2O3and 1 at.% ZrO2as a binary sintering additive. With an increase in the Ce doping concentration from 0 to 3 at.%, the optical absorption edge of yttria ceramics exhibited a significant red shift from 290 to 380 nm as a result of the 4f–5d transition of Ce3+and the charge transfer of Ce4+(i.e., Ce4++e–→Ce3+). For a 2‐mm thick sample doped with 3 at.% Ce, the total ultraviolet radiation (UV) transmittance (220–400 nm) is only 1.7%, indicating a nearly complete UV absorption. Meanwhile, the specimens possess high in‐line transmittance levels in both the visible and the infrared regions (i.e., >70% at 450 nm and ∼80% at 1100 nm). Additionally, the present specimens were confirmed to have good enough mechanical strength levels (∼165 MPa) and thermal conductivity (∼5 W/m·K), which are comparable or even better compared to those of previously reported transparent yttria ceramics. The results of this work indicate that cerium‐doped transparent yttria ceramics are promising candidate materials for full‐band UV‐shielding window applications.
Residual antimicrobial coating efficacy against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Hardison Rachael L. , Ryan Shawn P. , Limmer Rebecca A. , Crouse Margaret , Nelson Sarah W. , Barriga Daniela , Ghere Jessica M. , Stewart Michael J. , Lee Sang Don , Taylor Brian M. , James Ryan R. , Calfee Michael W. , Howard Megan W.
Published: January 2022

Aims

This study evaluated the residual efficacy of commercially available antimicrobial coatings or films against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on non-porous surfaces.

Methods and Results

Products were applied to stainless steel or ABS plastic coupons and dried overnight. Coupons were inoculated with SARS-CoV-2 in the presence of 5% soil load. Recovered infectious SARS-CoV-2 was quantified by TCID50 assay. Tested product efficacies ranged from <1.0 to >3.0 log10 reduction at a 2-h contact time. The log10 reduction in recovered infectious SARS-CoV-2 ranged from 0.44 to 3 log10 reduction on stainless steel and 0.25 to >1.67 log10 on ABS plastic. The most effective products tested contained varying concentrations (0.5%–1.3%) of the same active ingredient: 3-(trihydroxysilyl) propyldimethyloctadecyl ammonium chloride. Products formulated with other quaternary ammonium compounds were less effective against SARS-CoV-2 in this test.

Conclusions

The residual antimicrobial products tested showed varied effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 as a function of product tested. Several products were identified as efficacious against SARS-CoV-2 on both stainless steel and ABS plastic surfaces under the conditions evaluated. Differences in observed efficacy may be due to variation in active ingredient formulation; efficacy is, therefore, difficult to predict based upon listed active ingredient and its concentration.

Significance and Impact

This study highlights the formulation-specific efficacy of several products against SARS-CoV-2 and may inform future development of residual antiviral products for use on non-porous surfaces. The identification of antimicrobial coatings or films showing promise to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 suggests that these products may be worth future testing and consideration.
Atrial fibrillation incidence, prevalence, predictors, and adverse outcomes in acute coronary syndromes: A pooled analysis of data from 8 million patients
Authors: Noubiap Jean Jacques , Agbaedeng Thomas A. , Nyaga Ulrich F. , Lau Dennis H. , Worthley Matthew I. , Nicholls Stephen J. , Sanders Prashanthan
Published: January 2022

Objective

To summarize data on the prevalence/incidence, risk factors and prognosis of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS).

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science were searched to identify all published studies providing relevant data through August 23, 2020. Random‐effects meta‐analysis method was used to pool estimates.

Results

We included 109 studies reporting data from a pooled population of 8 239 364 patients. The prevalence rates were 5.8% for pre‐existing AF, 7.3% for newly diagnosed AF, and 11.3% for prevalent (total) AF, in patients with ACS. Predictors of newly diagnosed AF included age (per year increase) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.05), C‐reactive protein (aOR: 1.49), left atrial (LA) diameter (aOR: 1.08), LA dilatation (aOR: 2.32), left ventricular ejection fraction <40% (aOR: 1.82), hypertension (aOR: 1.87), and Killip ˃ 1 (aOR: 1.85), p < .01 in all analyzes. Newly diagnosed AF was associated with an increased risk of acute heart failure (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 3.20), acute kidney injury (aHR: 3.09), re‐infarction (aHR: 1.96), stroke (aHR: 2.15), major bleeding (aHR: 2.93), and mortality (aHR: 1.80) in the short term; and with an increased risk of heart failure (aHR: 2.21), stroke (aHR: 1.75), mortality (aHR: 1.67), CV mortality (aHR: 2.09), sudden cardiac death (aHR: 1.53), and a composite of major adverse cardiovascular events (aHR: 1.54) in the long term (beyond 1 month), p < .05 in all analyzes.

Conclusion

One in nine patients with ACS has AF, with a high proportion of newly diagnosed AF. AF, in particular newly diagnosed AF, is associated with poor short‐term and long‐term outcomes in patients with ACS.
A Decolonial Project for Europe
Authors: Bhambra Gurminder K.
Published: January 2022

Europe's past is an imperial and colonial past. Often presenting itself as a cosmopolitan continent of nations, it is, in fact, a continent of national projects buttressed by colonial endeavours. These have included colonial emigration and settlement, dispossession, appropriation, extraction, and enslavement. While particular national governments have played a central role – Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, for example – populations from across the European continent have also participated. This article sets out the ‘varieties of colonialism’ at the heart of the European project and asks what a decolonial project of Europe might look like. I argue it would be one that places the colonial histories of Europe at the centre of our understandings of the present and which seeks redress of the injustices associated with that history through postcolonial reparative action.
Review on effect of postharvest illumination by fluorescent and ultraviolet light waves on the quality of vegetables
Authors: Perera W. P. T. D. , Navaratne S. B. , Wickramasinghe I.
Published: January 2022

Postharvest illumination is an emerging nonthermal preservation technique used to preserve the quality of vegetables. This review aimed to provide an insight into the effect, importance, and limitations of postharvest illumination by fluorescent and ultraviolet (UV) light on the physical and nutraceutical properties of vegetables. It presents the current information on the postharvest application of these two lightings based on the vegetable species. According to the existing studies, both photoperiod and continuous (low‐intensity) fluorescent lighting treatments were beneficial more toward preserving the quality (delaying senescence and deterioration) of postharvest vegetables, mainly leafy vegetables. However, inconsistent results are also possible with the light quality (intensity and duration) on the postharvest fluorescent lighting treatment. According to gathered information, both UV‐B and UV‐C postharvest irradiation has been beneficial in delaying senescence and chlorophyll degradation and inducing bioactive compounds accumulation in some vegetable species. UV‐C application is appeared to have a relatively steady effect on the postharvest storage of vegetables. But UV‐B irradiation effect on the postharvest quality of vegetables was appeared to be dose dependent and not stable. In conclusion, it is important to consider vegetable (species, cultivar, harvesting age, and intact or fresh‐cut), previous treatments/conditions, optimum postharvest lighting condition (illumination source, dose, intensity, and duration), and the storage condition (temperature and relative humidity) for a successful implementation of postharvest illumination. More research is required to explore the postharvest application of fluorescent and UV (UV‐A, UV‐B, UV‐C) irradiation on vegetables.

Practical Applications

Multiple research approaches have been taken to preserve the postharvest quality of vegetables while minimizing chemical preservation techniques. Postharvest illumination is a nonchemical preservation technique that has attained more interest due to the advantages it holds, such as being highly efficient and residue‐free. Fluorescent and UV lighting on harvested leafy and non‐leafy vegetables are beneficial in delaying senescence and chlorophyll degradation, preserving nutritional quality, and extending the shelf life. With the accessibility of more research data and innovative strategies, the future of postharvest illumination of fluorescent and UV maybe steer toward implementation on commercial scale vegetable production (e.g., during storage and/or transportation).
Structural differences between immature and mature articular cartilage of rabbits by microscopic MRI and polarized light microscopy
Authors: Mantebea Hannah , Batool Syeda , Singh Amanveer , Hammami Mohammed , Badar Farid , Xia Yang
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to determine the structural features between immature and mature articular cartilage from the humeral and femoral joints of rabbits. Specimens of articular cartilage (n = 6 for immature tissue, n = 6 for mature tissue) that were still attached to the underlying bone from a humerus (shoulder joint) or femur (knee joint) were imaged using microscopic MRI (µMRI) and polarized light microscopy (PLM). Quantitative µMRI data with a pixel resolution of 11.7–13.2 µm revealed a number of differences between the immature and mature cartilage, including total thickness, and T2 and T1ρ relaxation values. Quantitative PLM data with a pixel resolution of 0.25–1 µm confirmed the µMRI results and revealed additional differences in cellular features between the tissues. The mature cartilage had a clearly defined tidemark, which was absent in the immature tissue. The ability to differentiate specific maturation‐related cartilage characteristics could be beneficial to translational studies of degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.
Incidence, characteristics and risk factors of delirium in the intensive care unit: An observational study
Authors: Erbay Dalli Öznur , Kelebek Girgin Nermin , Kahveci Ferda
Published: January 2022

Aims and Objective

To investigate the incidence, characteristics and risk factors of delirium in the ICU.

Background

Identifying the risk factors of delirium is important for early detection and to prevent adverse consequences.

Design

An observational cohort study conducted according to STROBE Guidelines.

Method

The study was conducted with patients who stayed in ICU ≥24 h and were older than 18 years. Patients were assessed twice daily using the RASS and CAM‐ICU until either discharge or death. Cumulative incidence was calculated. Demographic/clinical characteristics, length of stay and mortality were compared between patients with and without delirium. A logistic regression model was used to investigate risk factors.

Results

The incidence of delirium was 31.8% and hypoactive type was the most frequent (41.5%). The median onset of delirium was 3 days (IQR = 2) with a mean duration of 5.27 ± 2.32 days. Patients with delirium were significantly older, had higher APACHE‐II, SOFA and CPOT scores, higher blood urea levels, higher requirements for mechanical ventilation, sedation and physical restraints, longer stays in the ICU and higher mortality than those without delirium. The logistic regression analysis results revealed that a CPOT score ≥3 points (OR = 4.70, 95% CI: 1.05–20.93; p = .042), physical restraint (OR = 10.40, 95% CI: 2.75–39.27; p = .001) and ICU stay ≥7 days (OR = 7.26, 95% CI: 1.60–32.84; p = .010) were independent risk factors of delirium.

Conclusions

In this study, the incidence of delirium was high and associated with several factors. It is critical that delirium is considered by all members of the healthcare team, especially nurses, and that protocols are established for improvements.

Relevance to the clinical practice

Based on the results of this study, delirium could be decreased by preventing the presence of pain, prudent use of physical restraints and shortening the ICU stay.
Spanish‐speaking Mexican‐American parents' experiences while navigating the dental care system for their children
Authors: Lopez Andrea , Hoeft Kristin S. , Guerra Claudia , Barker Judith C. , Chung Lisa H. , Burke Nancy J.
Published: January 2022

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to describe Mexican‐American parents' experiences navigating the dental care system for their children.

Methods

Thirty in‐depth qualitative interviews were conducted with Spanish‐speaking caregivers of young children in an urban county of Northern California, asking about their experiences navigating dental care for their children. Interviews were digitally recorded, translated, transcribed, coded, and analyzed using standard qualitative procedures.

Results

Caregivers reported challenges that highlight how various aspects of navigating the health care system are elemental to oral health literacy. These included making appointments, finding a provider they trust, using their dental insurance, and communicating with the dental care provider.

Conclusions

When addressing oral health literacy, it is important to consider the navigational components to improve children's oral health literacy.
Preneoplastic lesions in the liver: Molecular insights and relevance for clinical practice
Authors: Desjonqueres Elvire , Campani Claudia , Marra Fabio , Zucman‐Rossi Jessica , Nault Jean‐Charles
Published: January 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are the most frequent primary liver cancers, accounting for approximately 80% and 15%, respectively. HCC carcinogenesis occurs mostly in cirrhosis and is a complex multi‐step process, from precancerous lesions (low‐grade and high‐grade dysplastic nodules) to progressed HCC. During the different stages of liver carcinogenesis, there is an accumulation of pathological, genetic and epigenetic changes leading to initiation, malignant transformation and finally tumour progression. In contrast, a small subset of HCC occurs in normal liver from the transformation of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), a benign hepatocellular tumour. The recent molecular classification enables to stratify HCAs according to their risk of complication, in particular malignant transformation, associated with mutations in exon 3 of the catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1) gene. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) derives from the multistep malignant transformation of preneoplastic lesions, like biliary intraepithelial neoplasia (BilIN) and intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB), for which a pre‐operative diagnosis remains difficult. Different genetic alterations are involved in BilIN and IPNB progression, leading to the development of tubular or intestinal adenocarcinoma. The aims of this review are to describe the main clinical and molecular features of preneoplastic lesions leading to the development of HCC and CCA, their implications in clinical practice and the perspectives for future research.
Hydraulic tradeoffs underlie local variation in tropical forest functional diversity and sensitivity to drought
Authors: Lourenço Jehová , Enquist Brian J. , von Arx Georg , Sonsin‐Oliveira Julia , Morino Kiyomi , Thomaz Luciana Dias , Milanez Camilla Rozindo Dias
Published: January 2022

Tropical forests are important to the regulation of climate and the maintenance of biodiversity on Earth. However, these ecosystems are threatened by climate change, as temperatures rise and droughts' frequency and duration increase. Xylem anatomical traits are an essential component in understanding and predicting forest responses to changes in water availability.

We calculated the community‐weighted means and variances of xylem anatomical traits of hydraulic and structural importance (plot‐level trait values weighted by species abundance) to assess their linkages to local adaptation and community assembly in response to varying soil water conditions in an environmentally diverse Brazilian Atlantic Forest habitat.

Scaling approaches revealed community‐level tradeoffs in xylem traits not observed at the species level. Towards drier sites, xylem structural reinforcement and integration balanced against hydraulic efficiency and capacitance xylem traits, leading to changes in plant community diversity.

We show how general community assembly rules are reflected in persistent fiber–parenchyma and xylem hydraulic tradeoffs. Trait variation across a moisture gradient is larger between species than within species and is realized mainly through changes in species composition and abundance, suggesting habitat specialization. Modeling efforts to predict tropical forest diversity and drought sensitivity may benefit from adding hydraulic architecture traits into the analysis.
The nutrition transition, food retail transformations, and policy responses to overnutrition in the East Asia region: A descriptive review
Authors: Huse Oliver , Reeve Erica , Baker Phillip , Hunt Daniel , Bell Colin , Peeters Anna , Backholer Kathryn
Published: January 2022

Background

The East Asia region is facing an increasing burden of overweight, obesity and related noncommunicable diseases, resulting from an ongoing nutrition transition. This study aimed to document the growing burden of overweight and obesity, and the accompanying dietary shifts, in the East Asia region and describe the policy responses to this.

Methods

We present noncommunicable disease risk factor collaboration data on trends in the burden of malnutrition, and Euromonitor International data on trends in dietary purchases, in the East Asia region. We searched the NOURISHING and GINA databases to identify food and nutrition policies implemented in these countries.

Results

There is an ongoing nutrition transition in the East Asia region, notably in upper‐middle and lower‐middle income countries. The prevalence of overweight, obesity, and accompanying health conditions, purchases of ultra‐processed foods and beverages, and purchasing from supermarkets, fast‐food and takeaway outlets, and other convenience retailers, are increasing. The policy response to this nutrition transition is limited, with the majority of policies implemented in higher‐income countries.

Conclusions

East Asian countries are facing a growing burden of malnutrition, due in part to the dietary shifts occurring here. An ecological approach to policy intervention is needed to drive transformative food systems change.
Aesthetic Acquaintance
Authors: Shelley James
Published: January 2022

If, as Richard Wollheim says, the Acquaintance Principle is ‘a well‐entrenched principle in aesthetics,’ it would be surprising if there were not something true at which those who have asserted it have been aiming. I argue that the Acquaintance Principle cannot be true on any traditional epistemic interpretation, nor on any usability interpretation of the sort Robert Hopkins has recently suggested. I then argue for an interpretation of the principle that treats acquaintance as the end to which judgments of aesthetic value are the means as opposed to the other way around.
Comparison of red light and blue light therapies for mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris: A randomized controlled clinical study
Authors: Li Jiahua , Li Jiandan , Zhang Linglin , Liu Xiaojing , Cao Yajing , Wang Peiru , Wang Xiuli
Published: January 2022

Background

Red and blue light therapies are safe and effective treatments for mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris. However, very few previous studies have directly compared the characteristics of these two methods.

Objective

To compare the efficacy and side effects of red light (RL) and blue light (BL) for acne vulgaris and to assess these two therapies in different types of lesions.

Materials and Methods

A total of 28 subjects with mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris were randomized into the RL group or the BL group. Subjects in each group received different light treatments, and they were followed up regularly until 2 weeks after the last treatment. The improvement rates of different types of acne lesions were compared between the 2 groups, as well as the incidence of adverse reactions.

Results

At the 2‐week follow‐up, the average improvement rate of total acne lesions was 36.2% in the RL group and 30.7% in the BL group (p > .05). The average improvement rate of inflammatory and non‐inflammatory lesions was 51.5% and 17.3% in the RL group, compared with 26.4% and 10.0% in the BL group (all p > .05). Treatment‐related adverse reactions were observed distinctly in the BL group.

Conclusions

Red light and BL therapies have similar efficacy in mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris, especially for inflammatory lesions. RL had advantages with fewer adverse reactions compared with BL.
Investigating neural dynamics in autism spectrum conditions outside of the laboratory using mobile electroencephalography
Authors: Giannadou Aikaterini , Jones Myles , Freeth Megan , Samson Andrea C. , Milne Elizabeth
Published: January 2022

There is currently a paucity of neuroscientific data recorded from more severely affected individuals with autism spectrum conditions (ASC). Enabling data collection to take place in a more familiar environment, that is, at home, may increase access to research participation in this group. Here, we present a new accessible method of studying brain activity of autistic individuals outside the laboratory in their home environment, using mobile electroencephalography (EEG) technology. The primary aim of the present study was to test the feasibility of acquiring good quality EEG data from autistic children at home, assessed via a set of objective data quality metrics, and to develop a list of practical guidelines on how to successfully conduct an EEG experiment in such a naturalistic setting based directly upon participants’ views. To demonstrate the utility of this method, we evaluated the EEG signal quality recorded from 69 children with ASC at home using a gel‐based Eego Sports mobile EEG system. Five key indicators of data quality were assessed. Our results demonstrate that it is possible to record high quality EEG signal from children with ASC at home, generating data that could address a number of research questions. A user experience survey identified areas of good practice, which researchers should take into consideration when designing mobile EEG studies aiming to acquire data from children with ASC at a home environment.
Decision‐Makers’ Generation of Policy Solutions amidst Negative Performance: Invention or Rigidity?
Authors: van der Voet Joris , Lems Elvira
Published: January 2022

Behavioral theory proposes that decision‐makers engage in search to identify satisfactory policy solutions to organizational problems. For complex problems, required solutions cannot be identified merely through search, but must be created and designed. While behavioral theory suggests that negative performance will spur creative solution generation, threat‐rigidity theory provides a competing view that decision‐makers' creative efforts are ultimately thwarted through restricted information processing and constriction of control. We test these competing expectations through a survey‐experimental comparison of the creativity of policy solutions in response to negative budgetary performance, generated by a nationally representative sample of local government decision‐makers. The findings indicate that negative performance decreases the creativity of policy solutions as rated by policy experts, and reveals that key mechanisms of threat‐rigidity theory are at play. This reduced generation of creative policy solutions amidst negative performance places limits on public organizations' capacity to adapt to adverse circumstances.
Repeated partnerships in university‐industry collaboration portfolios and firm innovation performance: roles of absorptive capacity and political connections
Authors: Zhang Shuman , Han Chen , Chen Chao
Published: January 2022

There is little empirical evidence on the relationship between repeated partnerships and firm innovation performance in the university‐industry collaboration (UIC) portfolio context. This study investigates how repeated partnerships in UIC portfolios influence focal firms’ innovation performance. Using a panel dataset of 768 UIC portfolios in the Chinese manufacturing industry, we theorize and reveal that repeated partnerships in UIC portfolios exert a negative effect on firm innovation performance. Besides, UIC portfolio repeated partnerships have a positive effect on absorptive capacity and that absorptive capacity partially mediates the relationship between UIC portfolio repeated partnerships and firm innovation performance, and political connections strengthen this relationship. These findings contribute to previous research on repeated partnerships and alliance portfolios, and provide practical implications for both firm managers and policymakers.
Reducing the peak tibial acceleration of running by music‐based biofeedback: A quasi‐randomized controlled trial
Authors: Van den Berghe Pieter , Derie Rud , Bauwens Pieter , Gerlo Joeri , Segers Veerle , Leman Marc , De Clercq Dirk
Published: January 2022

Background

Running retraining with the use of biofeedback on an impact measure has been executed or evaluated in the biomechanics laboratory. Here, the execution and evaluation of feedback‐driven retraining are taken out of the laboratory.

Purpose

To determine whether biofeedback can reduce the peak tibial acceleration with or without affecting the running cadence in a 3‐week retraining protocol.

Study Design

Quasi‐randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Twenty runners with high peak tibial acceleration were allocated to either the retraining (n = 10, 32.1 ± 7.8 years, 10.9 ± 2.8 g) or control (n = 10, 39.1 ± 10.4 years, 13.0 ± 3.9 g) groups. They performed six running sessions in an athletic training environment. A body‐worn system collected axial tibial acceleration and provided real‐time feedback. The retraining group received music‐based biofeedback in a faded feedback scheme. Pink noise was superimposed on tempo‐synchronized music when the peak tibial acceleration was ≥70% of the runner's baseline. The control group received tempo‐synchronized music, which acted as a placebo for blinding purposes. Speed feedback was provided to obtain a stable running speed of ~2.9 m·s−1. Peak tibial acceleration and running cadence were evaluated.

Results

A significant group‐by‐feedback interaction effect was detected for peak tibial acceleration. The experimental group had a decrease in peak tibial acceleration by 25.5% (mean: 10.9 ± 2.8 g versus 8.1 ± 3.9 g, p = 0.008, d = 1.08, mean difference = 2.77 [0.94, 4.61]) without changing the running cadence. The control group had no statistically significant change in peak tibial acceleration nor in running cadence.

Conclusion

The retraining protocol was effective at reducing the peak tibial acceleration in high‐impact runners by reacting to music‐based biofeedback that was provided in real time per wearable technology in a training environment. This reduction magnitude may have meaningful influences on injury risk.
Sex differences in semitendinosus muscle fiber‐type composition
Authors: Fournier Gaspard , Bernard Clara , Cievet‐Bonfils Maxime , Kenney Raymond , Pingon Maxime , Sappey‐Marinier Elliot , Chazaud Bénédicte , Gondin Julien , Servien Elvire
Published: January 2022

Sex differences in muscle fiber‐type composition have been documented in several muscle groups while the hamstring muscle fiber‐type composition has been poorly characterized. This study aimed to compare the semitendinosus muscle composition between men and women. Biopsy samples were obtained from the semitendinosus muscle of twelve men and twelve women during an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. SDH and ATPase activities as well as the size and the proportion of muscle fibers expressing myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms were used to compare muscle composition between men and women. The proportion of SDH‐positive muscle fibers was significantly lower (37.4 ± 11.2% vs. 49.3 ± 10.6%, p < 0.05), and the percentage of fast muscle fibers (i.e., based on ATPase activity) was significantly higher (65.8 ± 10.1% vs. 54.8 ± 8.3%, p < 0.05) in men versus women. Likewise, men muscles exhibited a lower percentage of the area that was occupied by MyHC‐I labeling (35.6 ± 10.1% vs. 48.7 ± 8.9%; p < 0.05) and a higher percentage of the area that was occupied by MyHC‐IIA (38.3 ± 6.7% vs. 32.5 ± 6.5%; p < 0.05) and MyHC‐IIX labeling (26.1 ± 9.6% vs. 18.8 ± 8.5%; p = 0.06) as compared with women muscles. The cross‐sectional area of MyHC‐I, MyHC‐IIA, and MyHC‐IIX muscle fibers was 31%, 43%, and 50% larger in men as compared with women, respectively. We identified sex differences in semitendinosus muscle composition as illustrated by a faster phenotype and larger muscle size in men as compared with women. This sexual dimorphism might have functional consequences.
Training and development in sport officials: A systematic review
Authors: Cunningham Ian , Mergler Jason , Wattie Nick
Published: January 2022

Sport officials make significant contributions to organized sport, yet scientific evidence to inform their specialized training and education at various levels has lagged. While psychological and performance demands of expert sport officials have been well documented, the extent of research about talent and expertise development, training efficacy, and broader developmental trajectories is unclear. This systematic review summarizes 30 years of published findings on the study of training and development of sport officials, including areas of research interest, study designs, and sport official characteristics. A PRISMA systematic review was conducted, utilizing three scientific databases (Web of Science, SportsDiscus, PsycInfo) to identify relevant studies (N = 27). Female participants were generally underrepresented in studies (17%), while football officials were most often represented (79%). Training intervention (59%), retrospective (37%), and cross‐sectional comparison (22%) were the main study designs. Expert and near‐expert sport officials' training histories and responses to empirically driven isolated‐skills training represented the predominant areas of study. Sport‐specific, video‐based infraction detection tasks were the most frequently used training methods to improve perceptual‐cognitive skills for on‐field decision‐making, however, studies lacked retention measures to on‐field performance. Psychological skills training programs were found to have mixed effects and used varied criteria for measuring training efficacy. Physical training showed mainly significant effects on physiological measures and aging influences for on‐field performance. More rigorous sport‐specific evidence, assessments of training transfer, program efficacy, and macro‐developmental trajectory and milestone data are needed to inform training programs and developmental plans.
Enhanced focused ion beam milling with use of nested raster patterns
Authors: Garcia Roberto , Giannuzzi Lucille A. , Stevie Fred A. , Strader Phillip
Published: January 2022

The focused ion beam (FIB) instrument is designed to provide the removal of material with nanometer-scale precision. However, one often needs to remove a substantial amount of material to expose the region of interest or prepare a specimen for transmission electron microscopy analysis. The maximum current available on Ga+ FIB sources is less than 100 nA, and this is a limiting factor when removal on the millimeter scale is desired. Any improvement in the removal rate reduces the analysis time and increases the range of samples that can be analyzed. Optimization of ion beam parameters, such as dwell time and overlap, can improve material removal and reduce redeposition. Since sputtering occurs faster at an edge, the use of a nested arrangement of raster patterns to more frequently present an edge to the ion beam was able to improve the removal of material at the region of interest by over 30% in the silicon and polycrystalline copper substrates used for this study. A confocal laser scanning microscope made possible an accurate determination of the material removed.
Use of in situ electrical conductance measurements to understand the chemical mechanisms and chamber wall effects during vapor phase infiltration doping of poly(aniline) with TiCl4 + H2O
Authors: Malinowski Kristina L. , Gregory Shawn A. , Wooding Jamie P. , Hvidsten Oliver B. , Jungreis Alexandra , Losego Mark D.
Published: January 2022

Vapor doping is commonly used to alter the electronic and optical properties of semiconducting polymers. Despite its ubiquity, the effects of vapor doping process conditions (e.g., time, temperature, and pressure) and the effects of reactor chamber walls on the resulting optical and electrical properties are seldomly considered. Herein, we use in situ electrical conductance measurements to understand the vapor phase infiltration (VPI) doping of poly(aniline) thin films with TiCl4 + H2O at low pressures and high temperatures (ca. 1 Torr and 100 °C). VPI doping is performed in a large vacuum chamber (28 l) with uncontrolled wall chemistries. Initial in situ electrical conductance measurements reveal conductance values higher than expected for purely oxidative doping from the TiCl4 precursor alone. To understand whether side reactions of the TiCl4 vapors with surface bound hydroxyls or water molecules to form HCl by-products that could act as acid-dopants is influencing the doping process, two processing schemes were explored: (1) a “standard process” that does not alter the uncontrolled wall chemistry and (2) a “passivated process” that reduces surface hydroxyls and/or adsorbed water by reacting these moieties with trimethylaluminum vapors. In situ conductance measurements reveal a significant change in the doping kinetics between the “standard” and “passivated” processes. Further in situ observed differences in conductance decrease during VPI purging steps provide additional evidence that the standard process generates more acid doping than the “passivated process.” Ex situ analysis using electrical conductivity, UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy serves to further confirm these differences in doping chemistry. Ultimately, this work demonstrates the utility of in situ electrical conductance measurements for monitoring and quantifying vapor phase infiltration doping mechanisms and kinetics and demonstrates that reaction chamber walls can have significant impacts on the polymer doping mechanism.
Longitudinal Associations Between Device-Measured Physical Activity and Early Childhood Neurodevelopment
Authors: Leão Otávio Amaral de Andrade , Mielke Gregore Iven , Hallal Pedro Curi , Cairney John , Mota Jorge , Domingues Marlos Rodrigues , Murray Joseph , Bertoldi Andréa Dâmaso
Published: January 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate longitudinal associations between physical activity and early childhood neurodevelopment. Methods: Data from 1673 children from the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) birth cohort study were analyzed. Physical activity was measured using accelerometers on the wrist at ages 1, 2, and 4 years. Neurodevelopment was measured using the Battelle Development Inventory at age 4 years. Linear regression models were used to test trajectories and cumulative associations of physical activity with child neurodevelopment. Results: Of the 3 physical activity trajectories observed, children in the medium (β = 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.25 to 2.10) and high (β = 2.22; 95% confidence interval, 0.61 to 3.82) trajectories showed higher neurodevelopment scores than children in the lower activity trajectory. Cumulative analyses showed that children in the highest tertile of physical activity in all follow-ups presented a mean neurodevelopment score 4.57 (95% confidence interval, 2.63 to 6.51) higher than children in the lowest tertile in all follow-ups. All analyses showed a dose–response characteristic of association, with higher physical activity indicating higher neurodevelopment scores. Conclusions: Physical activity may be an important predictor of neurodevelopment through early childhood.
DNA-PK promotes activation of the survival kinase AKT in response to DNA damage through an mTORC2-ECT2 pathway
Authors: Liu Liu , Dai Xiaoming , Yin Shasha , Liu Pengda , Hill Elizabeth G. , Wei Wenyi , Gan Wenjian
Published: January 2022

How the DNA damage response promotes cell survival through the kinase DNA-PK is revealed.
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High-Pathogenicity Island Encodes a Siderophore-Dependent Copper Response System in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Katumba George L. , Tran Hung , Henderson Jeffrey P.
Published: January 2022

Interactions between bacteria and transition metal ions play an important role in encounters between humans and bacteria. Siderophore systems have long been prominent mediators of these interactions.
A Retrotranslocation Assay That Predicts Defective VCP/p97-Mediated Trafficking of a Retroviral Signal Peptide
Authors: Das Poulami , Xu Wendy Kaichun , Gautam Amit Kumar Singh , Lozano Mary M. , Dudley Jaquelin P.
Published: January 2022

Endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD) is a form of cellular protein quality control that is manipulated by viruses, including the betaretrovirus, mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). MMTV-encoded signal peptide (SP) has been shown to interact with an essential ERAD factor, VCP/p97 ATPase, to mediate its extraction from the ER membrane, also known as retrotranslocation, for RNA binding and nuclear function.
The CovRS Environmental Sensor Directly Controls the ComRS Signaling System To Orchestrate Competence Bimodality in Salivarius Streptococci
Authors: Knoops Adrien , Vande Capelle Florence , Fontaine Laetitia , Verhaegen Marie , Mignolet Johann , Goffin Philippe , Mahillon Jacques , Sass Andrea , Coenye Tom , Ledesma-García Laura , Hols Pascal
Published: January 2022

Combining production of antibacterial compounds and uptake of DNA material released by dead cells, competence is one of the most efficient survival strategies in streptococci. Yet, this powerful tactic is energy consuming and reprograms the metabolism to such an extent that cell proliferation is transiently impaired.