bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective memory trace sustained by the human hippocampus during working memory task
Authors: Zhang Xinyi , Naya Yuji
Published: November 2021

Working memory is a subcategory of short‐term memory that voluntarily maintains behaviourally relevant information to prepare for a subsequent action. An established theory is that working memory is supported by the prefrontal cortex (PFC) for executive control, while the hippocampus (HPC) is largely involved in long‐term episodic memory. Recent studies suggest that the HPC is also involved in perception and short‐term storage. However, it remains unclear whether the HPC supports active maintenance of short‐term memory as working memory. To address this question, we devised a new delayed matching‐to‐sample task in which two visual items were presented at different locations one by one as samples. The sequential presentations of sample stimuli allowed us to dissociate the contents of working memory (i.e., identities and locations of two samples) from the constituent perceived information of single samples. By applying representational similarity analysis (RSA) to the blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent (BOLD) signals of human participants, we investigated the delay activity after the two sample presentations. The results of the RSA showed that the right HPC signalled only the second sample as a conjunctional representation of its item identity and location. In contrast, the right PFC, including both lateral and medial parts, represented the conjunctional information of both samples. These results suggested that the HPC may support short‐term memory for retrospective coding to retain information of the last event rather than for prospective coding coupled with working memory.
Computer‐aided deep learning model for identification of lymphoblast cell using microscopic leukocyte images
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Rawat Jyoti , Kumar Indrajeet , Rashid Mamoon , Singh Kamred Udham , Al‐Otaibi Yasser D. , Tariq Usman
Published: November 2021

The conventional technique of leukocyte cell classification involves segmenting the required portion of cells from input image, extracting features of the segmented nuclei, reducing and optimizing these features and then implements the classifier. Thus, designing a good classifier by using such techniques increases the time complexity of the system. In order to resolve such issues, the proposed work implements the deep convolutional neural network (DCNN)‐based models for classifying malignant versus normal WBCs. The proposed system is validated on 108 images of ALL‐IDB 1. Due to limited number of training samples, data augmentation is used to create a similar type of virtual image. In this work, experimentation is carried out for discrimination between normal and infected WBC using DCNN with four different activation functions. By using this method, a set of 6000 samples are generated and used for proper training of the DL model for all activation functions. The performance of each trained model is evaluated in terms of accuracy, recall, precision and F‐measure with the maximum values of 98.1%, 98.3%, 98.3% and 98.3% are achieved, respectively. Finally, it has been concluded that the defined DCNN model and ReLu activation function yield outstanding performance for lymphoblast characterization using microscopic blood images.
Literacy en français and à la française: Socializing students to academic literacy practices in a foreign language
Authors: Linares Emily , Blocker Déborah
Published: November 2021

Research on academic socialization has predominately focused on the L2 educational experiences of international students. While foreign language (FL) research has explored “multiliteracies” and “intercultural learning,” literacy in a FL continues to be understood as the use of foreign words and grammar combined with culturally familiar reading and writing practices. This article, which is conceptual in nature, highlights the potential to socialize US FL learners to literacy practices from the target culture. It reports on an upper‐division French literature and composition course that was redesigned to socialize students at UC Berkeley to two French academic genres, namely, the explication de texte and commentaire composé. The insights from the present project, which are not language‐specific and hold relevance for undergraduate and graduate students alike, encourage critical reflection within FL departments on what is—and can be—entailed by literacy in additional languages.
Helicobacter pylori infection and the progression of atherosclerosis: A systematic review and meta‑analysis
Authors: Shi Hongshuo , Li Yinghao , Dong Chengda , Si Guomin , Xu Yunsheng , Peng Min , Li Yujie
Published: November 2021

Objective

In recent years, many studies have tried to prove whether Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can promote the progression of atherosclerosis (AS), but the reported results are conflicting. Carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT), flow‐mediated dilation (FMD), or pulse wave velocity (PWV) are the most commonly used indicators to evaluate the progress of AS. So, we collected and evaluated these three indicators to provide evidence‐based medicine for the clinic.

Materials and methods

We included and evaluated studies on H. pylori infection and CIMT, FMD, or PWV from PubMed, Cochrane trials, and Embase databases before September 1, 2021, and language restrictions: English. Research types include cross‐sectional studies, cohort studies, and case‐control studies. The MINORS scale was used to evaluate the quality of these studies. For all studies, we choose a random‐effects model and calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD) for analysis, and all our analyses use STATA software.

Results

Meta‐analysis shows that H. pylori infection can significantly increase CIMT (WMD = 0.059, 95% CI: 0.039, 0.079, p < 0.001). Based on subgroup analysis, we found that the relationship between the two is more significant in the young and middle‐aged people younger than 60 years old and people without cardiovascular disease. In addition, we also found an association between H. pylori infection and FMD (WMD = −3.873, 95% CI: −5.684, −2.062, p < 0.001), but it is a pity that there are few literatures that meet the standards. Finally, We concluded that H. pylori infection can significantly increase PWV (WMD = 88.033, 95%CI: 67.297,108.768. I2 = 99.63%, p < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis, we also found that this correlation is similar to CIMT, and it is more significant in the young and middle‐aged population under 60 and those without cardiovascular disease. We also found in the sub‐analysis that there was a significant increase in CIMT in CagA‐positive individuals in H. pylori‐infected patients (WMD = 0.16, 95%CI: 0.02, 0.29. p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Helicobacter pylori infection can promote the process of AS, especially in people under the age of 60 and people without cardiovascular risk factors, and we hope that our meta‐analysis can provide ideas for the early prevention of AS.
Comparison of diagnostic performance between FIB‐4 and NFS in metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease era
Authors: Park Huiyul , Yoon Eileen L. , Kim Mimi , Lee Jonghyun , Kim Jung‐Hwan , Cho Seon , Jun Dae Won , Nah Eun‐Hee
Published: November 2021

Aims

Fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score (NFS) are the two most widely used non‐invasive tools for screening of advanced fibrosis in subjects with NAFLD. Since metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has been proposed as a new category of fatty liver disease, we aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of FIB‐4 and NFS in subjects with MAFLD and in various subgroups.

Methods

This study was designed as cross‐sectional study. Data from 6775 subjects who underwent magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) and abdominal ultrasonography at the same time during a health check‐up at 13 various health check‐up centers were retrospectively reviewed. Advanced fibrosis was defined as an MRE value of ≥3.6 kPa.

Results

The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs) of FIB‐4 and NFS for diagnosing advanced fibrosis were similar in subjects with MAFLD. However, the AUROC of NFS was lower than that of FIB‐4 in the diabetic subgroup of MAFLD (0.809 in FIB‐4 vs. 0.717 in NFS, p = 0.002). The performances of both FIB‐4 and NFS were poor in the subgroup of MAFLD with significant alcohol intake.

Conclusions

The overall diagnostic performance of FIB‐4 and NFS for diagnosing advanced fibrosis did not differ among subjects with MAFLD. However, the performance of NFS was lower in the diabetes subgroup of MAFLD. The diagnostic performance of FIB‐4 was better for fibrosis in various subgroups of MAFLD.
Evaluation of aloins, pH and moisture in aloe leaf gel‐based personal care products
Authors: Sibhat Gereziher , Kahsay Getu , Van Schepdael Ann , Adams Erwin
Published: November 2021

Objective

Some easily applicable analytical methods were explored to evaluate the quality of personal care products containing aloe leaf gel. Aloins should be absent in these products in view of their side effects. To check this, liquid chromatography (LC) was applied.

Methods

The LC method used a C18 monolithic column combined with gradient elution and ultraviolet (UV) detection. The mobile phase consisted of a mixture of 0.1% formic acid in water (A) and 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile (B). The method was validated with respect to specificity, linearity, precision and accuracy. Next, it was practically applied for the analysis of commercial samples. In addition, the pH and moisture content were determined.

Results

The LC results indicated that aloins were detected in 25% of the analysed commercial samples. Further, it turned out that 42% of the test samples were found to be in the basic pH range and 33% of them contained excessive moisture.

Conclusion

Proper quality control and adequate labelling of aloe leaf gel‐based cosmetics are mandatory to avoid side effects.
Tres vías de gobernanza laboral para abordar los déficits de trabajo decente en las cadenas mundiales de valor
Authors: ANNER Mark
Published: November 2021

Los estudios sobre cadenas mundiales de valor identifican seis tipos de gobernanza para abordar los déficits de trabajo decente (Gereffi y Lee 2016). Sobre la base de sus investigaciones en el sector de la confección de Bangladesh, Honduras y Viet Nam, el autor sostiene que los más eficaces son los que mitigan las asimetrías de poder en la cadena, como la gobernanza pública, sustentada en el poder del Estado, la negociación colectiva de amplia cobertura y los acuerdos internacionales multipartitos vinculantes. Las lagunas de gobernanza de los regímenes nacionales de relaciones laborales y los patrones y estrategias de resistencia de los trabajadores marcarán cuál es el más idóneo para cada caso.
Signatures of selection are present in the genome of two close autochthonous cattle breeds raised in the North of Italy and mainly distinguished for their coat colours
Authors: Bertolini Francesca , Moscatelli Giulia , Schiavo Giuseppina , Bovo Samuele , Ribani Anisa , Ballan Mohamad , Bonacini Massimo , Prandi Marco , Dall’Olio Stefania , Fontanesi Luca
Published: November 2021

Autochthonous cattle breeds are genetic resources that, in many cases, have been fixed for inheritable exterior phenotypes useful to understand the genetic mechanisms affecting these breed‐specific traits. Reggiana and Modenese are two closely related autochthonous cattle breeds mainly raised in the production area of the well‐known Protected Designation of Origin Parmigiano‐Reggiano cheese, in the North of Italy. These breeds can be mainly distinguished for their standard coat colour: solid red in Reggiana and solid white with pale shades of grey in Modenese. In this study we genotyped with the GeneSeek GGP Bovine 150k single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip almost half of the extant cattle populations of Reggiana (n = 1109 and Modenese (n = 326) and used genome‐wide information in comparative FST analyses to detect signatures of selection that diverge between these two autochthonous breeds. The two breeds could be clearly distinguished using multidimensional scaling plots and admixture analysis. Considering the top 0.0005% FST values, a total of 64 markers were detected in the single‐marker analysis. The top FST value was detected for the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene mutation, which determines the red coat colour of the Reggiana breed. Another coat colour gene, agouti signalling protein (ASIP), emerged amongst this list of top SNPs. These results were also confirmed with the window‐based analyses, which included 0.5‐Mb or 1‐Mb genome regions. As variability affecting ASIP has been associated with white coat colour in sheep and goats, these results highlighted this gene as a strong candidate affecting coat colour in Modenese breed. This study demonstrates how population genomic approaches designed to take advantage from the diversity between local genetic resources could provide interesting hints to explain exterior traits not yet completely investigated in cattle.
Non‐coding RNAs and related molecules associated with form‐deprivation myopia in mice
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Chen Huijie , Ma Wenbei , Zhong Yanyan , Liang Yingying , Gu Lishan , Lu Xiaohe , Li Jiali
Published: November 2021

The role of miRNAs and its regulatory mechanism in myopia are indeterminate. Our study aimed to investigate potential myopia‐associated non‐coding RNAs and related molecules by performing a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of miRNA expression profile of mice with form‐deprivation myopia (FDM). Differentially expressed miRNAs in two raw microarray data sets (GSE58124 and GSE84220) from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were comprehensively analysed using GEO2R. Target genes were predicted using miRDB and enriched with Metascape online tool. Protein‐protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed utilizing STRING and Cytoscape. Significant differentially expressed miRNAs were validated by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) using RNA extracted from monocular FDM ocular tissues. As result, we identified three upregulated miRNAs (mmu‐miR‐1936, mmu‐miR‐338‐5p, and mmu‐miR‐673‐3p) significantly associated with myopia in the two microarray data sets (p < 0.05 and |Log (Fold Change) |>1). GO functional analysis suggested these three miRNAs were targeted in genes mostly enriched in morphogenesis and developmental growth of retinal tissues. Enrichment analysis revealed top eight transcription factors, including PAX6 and Smad3, related to myopia. Ten hub genes, including Rbx1, Fbxl3, Fbxo27, Fbxl7, Fbxo4, Cul3, Cul2, Klhl5, Fbxl16 and Klhl42, associated with ubiquitin conjugation were identified. qRT‐PCR confirmed the increased expression of mmu‐miR‐1936 and mmu‐miR‐338‐5p (p < 0.05), but no statistical difference was observed in mmu‐miR‐673‐3p expression in myopic retinas. Our findings indicated mmu‐miR‐1936, mmu‐miR‐338‐5p and mmu‐miR‐673‐3p upregulation may be associated with myopia development via post‐transcriptional gene regulation, and identified potential molecules that could be further explored in future studies of the mechanism in myopia.
Behavioural responses of diapausing Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) to conspecific volatile organic compounds
Authors: Nixon Laura , Morrison William R. , Rice Kevin B. , Goldson Stephen , Brockerhoff Eckehard G. , Khrimian Ashot , Rostás Michael , Leskey Tracy C.
Published: November 2021

The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys Stål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is an invasive pest in America, Europe and Asia and causes serious economic loss to crops, and nuisance problems during overwintering. Uninvaded southern hemisphere countries, such as New Zealand and Australia, see an increase in H. halys border interceptions during the northern hemisphere populations’ overwintering period as large aggregations of H. halys can settle to diapause in items for export, e.g. vehicles, containers, etc. Here, we explored aspects of diapausing H. halys behaviour relative to release and perception of defensive odour compounds. First, to determine whether group size and agitation affect the release of defensive odours, diapausing H. halys were confined in glass tubes as individuals or in varying group sizes and mechanically agitated or remained stationary and the presence or absence of defensive odours was recorded. Using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, we also established if exposure to individual defensive odour components (tridecane, (E)‐2‐decenal, 4‐oxo‐(E)‐2‐hexenal, and dodecane) induced individuals to release defensive compounds. Additionally, H. halys dispersal was measured in the laboratory following exposure to individual components of their defensive odour or their natural blend. We found that agitating individual bugs did not induce the release of defensive odours. The release of human‐detectable odours was only found in groups of mechanically agitated H. halys, whereas non‐agitated bugs did not emit odour. Exposure to 4‐oxo‐(E)‐2‐hexenal was the only odour component that resulted in individual H. halys releasing defensive compounds. Diapausing H. halys exposure to the natural blend of defensive compounds resulted in increased horizontal distance moved and velocity, while tridecane exposure increased distance moved, velocity and angular velocity, and (E)‐2‐decenal exposure increased distance moved. Our behavioural and chemical data suggest that defensive compounds released by diapausing H. halys act as an alarm pheromone, particularly when adults are in aggregations.
Effect of assessor's sex on visual color matching in dentistry: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Hynková Kristýna , Sarao Simran Kaur , Voborná Iva , Levin Liran
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To evaluate systematically the influence of sex of dental professionals on their capability for visual color matching.

Materials and Methods

The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020205393). PICOS question was develop based on the population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study design (PICOS). Eligibility criteria included cross section studies, randomized clinical trials and cohort studies that compared the effect of sex on the visual color matching process. Five electronic databases (Pubmed, Cochrane, EMBASE, Medline, and SCOPUS) and additional literature were screened independently by two researchers in July 2020. Clinical studies evaluating visual color matching skills of dental professionals were included. Studies that did not compare the difference between sexes were excluded. Duplicate articles were removed, titles and abstracts were screened, and studies were selected according to the inclusion criteria. Data were collected and reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools.

Results

A total of 1192 articles were screened from which 132 full text articles were analyzed and 37 finally included in the systematic review. Most of the studies evaluated the color matching abilities of dental students in vitro with shade tabs or extracted teeth. Out of the 37 articles included, 25 reported no significant difference in shade matching abilities between the sexes. Of the 12 studies that found a significant difference, 11 reported that females had better scores in shade matching exercises. For all studies a low risk of bias was revealed for most of the domains.

Conclusions

While the non‐homogeneity of the settings and methods in the included studies make it impossible to construct aggregate statistic, this systematic review suggests that the sex is unlikely to be a critical factor influencing color matching abilities.

Clinical significance

This study suggest that sex of dental professionals does not play a critical factor in matching satisfactory color of future dental restoration with surrounding teeth.
Applications of artificial intelligence in dentistry: A comprehensive review
Authors: Carrillo‐Perez Francisco , Pecho Oscar E. , Morales Juan Carlos , Paravina Rade D. , Della Bona Alvaro , Ghinea Razvan , Pulgar Rosa , Pérez María del Mar , Herrera Luis Javier
Published: November 2021

Objective

To perform a comprehensive review of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in dentistry, providing the community with a broad insight on the different advances that these technologies and tools have produced, paying special attention to the area of esthetic dentistry and color research.

Materials and methods

The comprehensive review was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, for papers published in English language in the last 20 years.

Results

Out of 3871 eligible papers, 120 were included for final appraisal. Study methodologies included deep learning (DL; n = 76), fuzzy logic (FL; n = 12), and other ML techniques (n = 32), which were mainly applied to disease identification, image segmentation, image correction, and biomimetic color analysis and modeling.

Conclusions

The insight provided by the present work has reported outstanding results in the design of high‐performance decision support systems for the aforementioned areas. The future of digital dentistry goes through the design of integrated approaches providing personalized treatments to patients. In addition, esthetic dentistry can benefit from those advances by developing models allowing a complete characterization of tooth color, enhancing the accuracy of dental restorations.

Clinical significance

The use of AI and ML has an increasing impact on the dental profession and is complementing the development of digital technologies and tools, with a wide application in treatment planning and esthetic dentistry procedures.
First report of successful isolation of a HPR0‐like variant of the infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV) using cell culture
Authors: Ditlecadet D. , Gautreau C. , Boston L. , Liston R. , Johnsen E. , Gagné N.
Published: November 2021

ISAV is the causative agent of the infectious salmon anaemia (ISA), a disease listed by the OIE that has caused important economic losses to the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) industry. ISAV variants are identified as pathogenic or non‐pathogenic based on the presence or absence of a deletion in the highly polymorphic region (HPR) of segment 6 (S6). HPRΔ variants (pathogenic) are the only forms of the virus known to grow in cell culture. This is the first report of a HPR0 variant isolated in cell culture. The isolate is, however, atypical as it shows a marker of virulent variants on another segment (S5), which has never been reported for any other HPR0 variants. The significance of this finding remains unclear until more in‐depth work is carried out but does challenge current knowledge.
Comparison of standardised milk‐based, standardised non‐milk based and hospital‐based formulations on the anthropometric indices of under‐fives with moderate acute malnutrition: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Udoh Ekong , Nwazuluoke Blessing , Bassey Victor , Motilewa Olugbemi , Okorie Obasi , Adesina Sunday , Ejemot‐Nwadiaro Regina , Meremikwu Martin
Published: November 2021

Background

Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) causes impaired anthropometry, which can be reversed by supplementary feeding. The present study aimed to compare the effect of a standardised milk‐based formulation (SMBF), standardised non‐milk based formulation (SNMBF) and hospital‐based formulation (HBF) on anthropometric indices of children aged <5 years with MAM.

Methods

This was a randomised clinical trial during which eligible children aged 6–59 months with MAM received SMBF, SNMBF or HBF over 4 months. They were followed up on a biweekly basis during which their weight, mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) and length/height were measured. The effect of the formulations was determined at the end of the period by the change in their anthropometric indices using ‘per protocol’ analysis. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There were 157 evaluable participants of whom 54 received the SMBF, 57 received the SNMBF and 46 received the HBF. The overall result showed a significant improvement in the mean weight and MUAC of the children. Subgroup analysis showed a significant improvement in mean weight and MUAC among children aged 6–23 months (p = 0.013) and improvement in MUAC only among those aged 24–59 months (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The formulations significantly improved the mean weight and MUAC of children with MAM.
Easy Diet Screener: A quick and easy tool for determining dietary patterns associated with lipid profile and body adiposity
Authors: Malinowska Anna M.
Published: November 2021

Background

There is a lack of simple tools that could allow members of the general population to estimate their own dietary patterns and to associate them with unfavourable health outcomes. The present study aimed to develop and validate a simple self‐administered tool, called the Easy Diet Screener (EDS), that would identify healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns and evaluate their association with unfavourable blood and anthropometric parameters (i.e. values outside the recommended values).

Methods

In total, 259 adult people (31−50 years of age) participated in this observational study. They filled out an online version of the EDS questionnaire; those who scored highly were assigned to the healthy dietary pattern (HDP) group, whereas those with a low score were assigned to the western dietary pattern (WDP) group. The dietary records, anthropometric and biochemical parameters were evaluated in a subset of 200 participants who obtained similar score in the repeated EDS (paper version).

Results

People assigned to HDP on the basis of EDS had significantly better diet quality than those assigned to WDP, with values of the Healthy Eating Index being 76.9 ± 9.2 and 58.7 ± 10.5, respectively. People classed as WDP had a higher risk of too high serum low‐density lipoproteins [odds ratio (OR) = 2.65], triglycerides (OR = 3.67), body mass index (OR = 2.87) and percentage of fat tissue (OR = 3.98) than did people in the HDP.

Conclusions

EDS is an easy tool for quickly identifying healthy and western dietary patterns that are associated with lipid profile and body adiposity.
Experiences of accessing healthcare services by people with hearing loss/impairment (deaf) in sub‐Saharan Africa: An integrative review
Authors: Baratedi William M. , Tshiamo Wananani B. , Mokotedi Mosidi T. , Khutjwe Joyce V. , Mamalelala Tebogo T. , Sewane Eulie B. P.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The aim was to review published articles to identify experiences of people with hearing loss/impairment accessing healthcare services in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Design and method

The study was guided by Cooper's integrative review methodology. Articles published between 2010 and 2020 were identified through electronic databases. The search included: Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, EBSCOHOST, MEDLINE, and Psyc INFO and using specific search terms. Ninety‐one (91) articles were identified and screened for eligibility, and only seven articles were appraised using relevant tools for qualitative and quantitative designs.

Findings

The articles that met the inclusion criteria were from the following sub‐Saharan countries: Ghana (n = 2) South Africa (n = 3) Uganda (n = 1) and Zimbabwe (n = 1). Review analysis revealed seven (7) major themes categorized as: communication, lack of knowledge, discrimination, financial problem, healthcare workers’ attitudes, and a lack of autonomy, security and privacy issues.

Conclusion

The review provides evidence that indicate the challenges faced by people with hearing loss/impairment in sub‐Saharan Africa. Studies suggest that communication, lack of knowledge; financial problems, lack of autonomy and privacy, and a perception of being discriminated against were major impediments in accessing healthcare service. Undesirable attitudes were also a hindrance for healthcare access.

Clinical relevance

Communication is a major impediment in accessing healthcare for the hearing impaired people residing in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Efficacy of Dendrobium candidum polysaccharide extract as a moisturizer
Authors: Cha So Yoon , Park So Yeon , Lee Jae Seok , Lee Kang Hyuk , Kim Jeong Hoon , Fang Yuzhan , Shin Song Seok
Published: November 2021

Introduction

This study investigated the role of natural polymers as moisturizers with low toxicity and biodegradability in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. We isolated a polysaccharide extract from Dendrobium candidum (D. candidum) and determined its efficacy in skin hydration when used as an active cosmetic ingredient.

Methods

The molecular weight distribution of D. candidum polysaccharides was analyzed via gel permeation chromatography (GPC). We performed real‐time reverse transcription PCR (RT‐PCR) and western blotting assays to investigate the physiological mechanism of the polysaccharides extracted from D. candidum (PDC). Based on in vitro data, the efficacy of PDC in improving skin condition was tested on the face of 21 volunteers.

Results

The expression of filaggrin (FLG), caspase‐14, and bleomycin hydrolase, which are the major components contributing to skin hydration, was significantly increased in the PDC‐treated group. Further, the PDC upregulated the mRNA expression of occludin and claudin‐1, which play a key role in epidermal barrier function. In addition, a topical application of PDC markedly increased skin hydration and improved trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin elasticity after 2 weeks.

Conclusions

It is the first study reporting the efficacy of PDC‐mediated FLG mechanism associated with positive skin hydration. PDC can be used as an active ingredient in moisturizers. Long‐term application of PDC‐based moisturizers may result in significant improvement in elasticity and barrier function.
Outcomes of a Multi‐Component School‐Based Nutrition Program
Authors: Melnick Emily M. , Bergling Emily , Pendleton Divyani , Scarbro Sharon , Atwood Julie , Puma Jini E.
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

This paper presents the effectiveness of a multi‐component elementary school‐based nutrition education program, the Integrated Nutrition Education Program (INEP), which has been in existence for over 25 years. INEP includes components to address multiple layers of influence: hands‐on nutrition education lessons in the classroom (student‐level), parent education, and outreach (home‐level), and facilitation of a planning process to implement policy, system, and environmental (PSE) school changes (school‐level).

METHODS

Three evaluation tools assessed the effectiveness of the program: (1) classroom plate waste measurement in intervention (N = 149 students) and demographically‐matched comparison schools (N = 131 students), (2) pre/post classroom surveys completed by students who participated in INEP (N = 204), and (3) PSE change data from participating schools (N = 47 schools).

RESULTS

Students who participated in the nutrition education program were more likely to consume vegetable‐based recipes and vegetables included in classroom nutrition lessons compared to students in comparison classrooms (Chinese vegetable salad: p < .001; couscous salad: p < .001; snap peas: p = .001). Classroom survey analyses showed improvements in student self‐efficacy (p < .001), preference for vegetables (p = .005), and knowledge (p < .001). In addition, through a wellness planning process, schools implemented an average of 3.7 PSE changes per school.

CONCLUSIONS

Results demonstrate a multi‐component school‐based nutrition education program improves student nutrition‐related outcomes.
Looking through a kaleidoscope: The phenomenological ethnic‐racial socialization conceptual model and its application to U.S. Black and Latino Youth and families
Authors: Scott Judith C. , McDermott Elana R. , Harris Abril N. , Johnson Kendall G. , Pinderhughes Ellen E. , Spencer Margaret Beale
Published: November 2021

A significant body of research examines ethnic‐racial socialization among families of color, yet rarely investigates the influence of youths’ phenotype (e.g., skin color) on ethnic‐racial socialization. How families of color make meaning of youths’ skin color may cause variation in ethnic‐racial socialization. To address this gap, we propose the Phenomenological Ethnic‐Racial Socialization Conceptual Model, which details how the meaning families of color make of phenotype within contexts and in consideration of youths’ identities affects ethnic‐racial socialization. In the application of the model to U.S. Black and Latino youth and families, we specifically focus on how the meaning of skin color, affected by context and immigrant identity, can influence ethnic‐racial socialization. Theoretical frameworks that can be used to investigate components and relations within the model are briefly discussed. We conclude with a discussion of the implications for research and practice, limitations of the conceptual model, and future research.
Role of public interest in Trademark Law
Authors: Bhatia Pallavi
Published: November 2021

Trademark Laws should be understood in light of public interest in protecting the public from falling into the trap of confusion, and not as rights that are excluded from scrutiny. It aims to protect trade symbols to avoid the likelihood of confusion among consumers. It is to be seen whether the broad protection is giving any benefit to consumers or it is serving badly the public interest by shielding firms from healthy competition. Broad legal protection to the trade symbols can sometimes disserve the competition and harms the consumer and larger public as well. The paper questions and analyses the objectives of Trademark Law. Are these trademarks untouchable? Can perpetual monopoly be ever touched on public interest grounds? Can public interest grounds supersede economic interests of individual trademark owners? It can be believed that trademarks can definitely be touched and can be objected on the grounds based on public interests. Also, it must be remembered that intellectual property is not a positive right to use the mark but a negative right to stop others from exploiting it. Thus, the ban on controversial brands can very well be held if found obscene or scandalous in nature or if hitting public interest.
The effectiveness of interventions on nutrition social behaviour change communication in improving child nutritional status within the first 1000 days: Evidence from a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mahumud Rashidul A. , Uprety Sophiya , Wali Nidhi , Renzaho Andre M. N. , Chitekwe Stanley
Published: November 2021

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to assess the robustness of designs and tools used in nutrition social behaviour change communication (NSBCC) interventions and establish their effectiveness. EBSCOhost as an umbrella database including Medline (Ovid) and CINAHL, EMBASE, and ProQUEST databases were searched for peer‐reviewed articles from January 1960 to October 2018. Additional sources were searched to identify all relevant studies including grey literature. Studies' biases were assessed according to Cochrane handbook. Pooled estimate of effectiveness of interventions on infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices and child nutritional status with 95% confidence intervals were measured using random‐effects models. Eighty studies were included in this review: Fifty‐one (64%) were cluster randomised controlled trials (RCTs), 13 (16%) were RCTs and 16 (20%) quasi‐experimental. Of the included studies, 22 (27%) measured early initiation of breastfeeding, 38 (47%) measured exclusive breastfeeding, 29 (36%) measured minimum dietary diversity, 21 (26%) measured minimum meal frequency, 26 (32%) measured height for age z‐scores (HAZ), 23 (29%) measured weight for height z‐scores (WHZ), 27 (34%) measured weight for age z‐scores (WAZ), 20 (25%) measured stunting, 14 (17%) measured wasting, and 11 (14%) measured underweight. The overall intervention's effect was significant for exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) (odds ratio = 1.73; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.35–2.11, p < 0.001), HAZ (standardized mean differences [SMD] = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.17–0.21; p < 0.001), WHZ (SMD = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.004–0.04; p < 0.001), and WAZ (SMD = 0.04; 95% CI: 0.02–0.06; p < 0.001). Evidence shows the effectiveness of NSBCC in improving EBF and child anthropometric outcomes. Further research should test the impact on child nutritional status with clearly specified and detailed NSBCC interventions.
Optimising planned medical education strategies to develop learners' person‐centredness: A realist review
Authors: Bansal Aarti , Greenley Sarah , Mitchell Caroline , Park Sophie , Shearn Katie , Reeve Joanne
Published: November 2021

Context

Person‐centeredness is a stated aim for medical education; however, studies suggest this is not being achieved. There is a gap in our understanding of how, why and in what circumstances medical education interventions that aim to develop person‐centredness are successful.

Methods

A realist review was conducted with a search of Medline, Embase, HMIC and ERIC databases and the grey literature using the terms ‘medical education’ and ‘person‐centred’ and related synonyms. Studies that involved a planned educational intervention in medical education with data on outcomes related to person‐centredness were included. The analysis focused on how and why different educational strategies interact with biomedical learner perspectives to trigger mechanisms that may or may not lead to a change in perspective towards person‐centredness.

Results

Sixty‐one papers representing fifty‐three interventions were included in the final synthesis. Nine context–intervention–mechanism–outcome configuration (CIMOc) statements generated from the data synthesis make up our refined programme theory. Where educational interventions focused on communication skills learning or experiences without person‐centred theory, learners experienced dissonance with their biomedical perspective which they resolved by minimising the importance of the learning, resulting in perspective endurance. Where educational interventions applied person‐centred theory to meaningful experiences and included support for sense making, learners understood the relevance of person‐centeredness and felt able to process their responses to learning, resulting in perspective transformation towards person‐centredness.

Conclusion

Our findings offer explanations as to why communication skills‐based interventions may be insufficient to develop learners' person‐centredness. Integrating experiential person‐centred learning with theory on why person‐centredness matters to clinical practice and enabling learners to make sense of their responses to learning, may support perspective transformation towards person‐centredness. Our findings offer programme and policymakers testable theory to inform the development of medical education strategies that aim to support person‐centredness.
Should clinical automated perimetry be considered for routine functional assessment of early/intermediate age‐related macular degeneration (AMD)? A systematic review of current literature
Authors: Trinh Matt , Kalloniatis Michael , Nivison‐Smith Lisa
Published: November 2021

Purpose

There is growing interest in functional testing for early/intermediate age‐related macular degeneration (iAMD). However, systematic evaluation of existing clinical functional tests is lacking. This systematic review examines evidence for using clinical automated perimetry in routine assessment of early/iAMD.

Recent findings

PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and Embase were searched from inception to October 2020 to answer, is there evidence of visual field defects in early/iAMD, and if so, are early/iAMD visual field defects linked to real‐world patient outcomes? Articles using clinical automated perimetry (commercially accessible and non‐modified devices/protocols) were included. Microperimetry was excluded as this has yet to be incorporated into clinical guidelines. The primary outcome was global visual field indices including mean deviation (MD), pattern standard deviation (PSD), mean sensitivity (MS) and frequency of defects. The secondary outcome was any real‐world patient outcome including quality of life and/or activities of daily living indices. Twenty‐six studies were eligible for inclusion and all studies were observational. There was consistent evidence of worsened MD, PSD, MS and frequency of defects for early/iAMD compared to normal eyes under photopic, low‐photopic and scotopic conditions. Meta‐analysis of studies using standard automated perimetry (SAP) under photopic conditions revealed worsened MD (−1.52dB [−2.27, −0.78 dB]) and MS (−1.47dB [−2, −0.94 dB]) in early/iAMD compared to normal eyes, representing large statistical effect sizes but non‐clinically meaningful reductions. There was insufficient data for meta‐analyses regarding other clinical automated perimetry protocols. Only one study assessed a real‐world patient outcome (on‐road driving performance), with no significant link to visual field outcomes in early/iAMD.

Significant reduction of global visual field indices is present in early/iAMD, but not clinically meaningful using SAP under photopic conditions. Translational relevance of visual field outcomes to patient outcomes in early/iAMD remains unclear. Thus, SAP under photopic conditions is unlikely to be useful for routine assessment of early/iAMD.
Repair Versus Non‐Repair of Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament in Elbow Varus Posteromedial Rotatory Instability Treatment: A Comparative Study
Authors: Zhang Xinan , Zhang Juntao , Jin Bo , Zhang Qiangqiang , Li Qi , Zhu Yongqiang , Zhao Desheng
Published: November 2021

Objective

To compare the effects of repairing and not repairing the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) when surgically treating elbow varus posteromedial rotatory instability (PMRI).

Methods

In this retrospective study spanning June 2014 to February 2019, 24 patients with elbow PMRI who were treated surgically were assigned to group RL (Repair LUCL) or group NL (Non‐repair LUCL) depending on whether the LUCL was repaired. Hospitalization time, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and related complications were reviewed. The elbow range of motion (ROM), the visual analog scale (VAS), the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS), and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score were used for functional assessment.

Results

Among the 24 patients with PMRI, 15 were assigned to group RL and nine were assigned to group NL. The mean blood loss (184.66 ± 20.3 vs 207.33 ± 19.447, P < 0.001), the operation time (98.88 ± 12.693 min vs 184.66 ± 20.3 min, P < 0.001) were significantly lower in group RL compared to group NL. There were no significant differences between the two groups in time until surgery and follow‐up time (6.66 ± 1.838 vs 6.11 ± 1.900 days, 25.53 ± 2.099 vs 26.11 ± 2.891 months, P = 0.577, P = 0.486). All of the patients achieved bone union. The elbow flexion‐extension ROM (122.00° ± 3.162°vs 121.11° ± 3.333° at 12 months, P = 0.520) and pronation‐supination ROM (154.53° ± 3.335° vs 155.55° ± 4.639° at 12 months, P = 0.537). Both groups achieved similar results in MEPS score (90.53 ± 2.695 vs 89.77 ± 3.865, P = 0.578) and DASH (9.77 ± 1.897 vs 9.99 ± 1.550, P = 0.772) score at the final follow‐up. And the MEPS score revealed excellent results (87% in group RL, 89% in group NL).The VAS scores decreased significantly in group RL (from 6.13 ± 0.990 to 1.93 ± 0.593) and group NL (from 5.77 ± 1.481 to 1.88 ± 0.781), and no significant differences in preoperative or final follow‐up were observed between the two groups (P = 0.487, P = 0.876). Complications observed in group NL with one patient occurred cubital tunnel syndrome 3 months after the operation, the patient underwent ulnar nerve simple neurolysis and the symptoms were relieved after 3 weeks.

Conclusion

For patients with elbow PMRI, satisfactory functional outcomes can be yielded with non‐repair of the LUCL as long as the stable elbow joint is performed during operation.
Cyclobutane Pyrimidine Dimers Produced with Narrowband UVB Are on Average More Mutagenic than Those with Broadband UVB in Mouse Skin
Authors: Ikehata Hironobu , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: November 2021

Although narrowband UVB (NB‐UVB) has replaced broadband UVB (BB‐UVB) because of its greater effectiveness in dermatological phototherapy, it is twice as carcinogenic as BB‐UVB at an equivalent inflammatory dose. To clarify the basis of the different genotoxicities, we comparatively evaluated the mutagenicities in mouse skin of the two UVB types along with their efficiencies in the formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD), which is a major mutagenic DNA photolesion specifically produced by UVR. We found that the mutagenicity averaged per single molecule of CPD was 2.5‐ and 1.8‐fold higher in NB‐UVB‐exposed epidermis and dermis, respectively, which indicates that NB‐UVB is more mutagenic for the skin than BB‐UVB at doses producing an equimolar amount of CPD. Analysis of effective wavelengths for UV photolesion formation with each UVB source revealed a remarkable difference in the peak effective wavelengths for CPD formation: 15 nm longer for NB‐UVB in the epidermis. Although the analysis of mutation profiles showed largely similar UV‐specific signatures between the two UVB types, a relatively stronger preference for UVA‐specific mutations was observed for NB‐UVB. These results suggest that the difference in the effective wavelengths for CPD formation leads to the different mutagenicities and carcinogenicities between the UVB sources.
Why and how high volume hemodiafiltration may reduce cardiovascular mortality in stage 5 chronic kidney disease dialysis patients? A comprehensive literature review on mechanisms involved
Authors: Canaud Bernard , Blankestijn Peter J. , Grooteman Muriel P. C. , Davenport Andrew
Published: November 2021

Online hemodiafiltration (HDF) is an established renal replacement modality for patients with end stage chronic kidney disease that is now gaining rapid clinical acceptance worldwide. Currently, there is a growing body of evidence indicating that treatment with HDF is associated with better outcomes and reduced cardiovascular mortality for dialysis patients. In this comprehensive review, we provide an update on the potential mechanisms which may improve survival in HDF treated patients. The strongest evidence is for better hemodynamic stability and reduced endothelial dysfunction associated with HDF treatments. Clinically, this is marked by a reduced incidence of intradialytic hypotensive episodes, with a better hemodynamic response to ultrafiltration, mediated by an increase in total peripheral vascular resistance and extra‐vascular fluid recruitment, most likely driven by the negative thermal balance associated with online HDF therapy. In addition, endothelial function appears to be improved due to a combination of a reduction of the inflammatory and oxidative stress complex syndrome and exposure to circulating cardiovascular uremic toxins. Reports of reversed cardiovascular remodeling effects with HDF may be confounded by volume and blood pressure management, which are strongly linked to center clinical practices. Currently, treatment with HDF appears to improve the survival of dialysis patients predominantly due to a reduction in their cardiovascular burden, and this reduction is linked to the sessional convection volume exchanged.