bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of UVSSA ubiquitination suppresses transcription‐coupled nucleotide excision repair deficiency caused by dissociation from USP7
Authors: Higa Mitsuru , Tanaka Kiyoji , Saijo Masafumi
Published: January 2018

Transcription‐coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC‐NER) is a subpathway of nucleotide excision repair that efficiently removes transcription‐blocking DNA damage from the transcribed strands of active genes. UVSSA is a causative gene for UV‐sensitive syndrome (UVSS), which is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by hypersensitivity to UV light and deficiency in TC‐NER. UV‐stimulated scaffold protein A (UVSSA), the product of UVSSA, forms a complex with ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 7 (USP7) and is stabilized by interaction with USP7. The central region of UVSSA, which contains the tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor (TRAF)‐binding motif, is required for the interaction with the N‐terminal TRAF domain of USP7. Here, we showed that UVSSA is mono‐ubiquitinated in vitro and identified a lysine residue (Lys414) in UVSSA as the target of ubiquitination. The deubiquitination activity of USP7 was inhibited by the ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme UbcH6. Lys414 was also modified by poly‐ubiquitin chains in vivo. UVSSA deficient in the interaction with USP7 is ubiquitinated and degraded by the proteasome, and the degradation leads to deficiency in TC‐NER. The substitution of Lys414 by Arg of UVSSA inhibited its degradation and thereby suppressed the deficiency in TC‐NER.
The retinamide VNLG‐152 inhibits f‐AR/AR‐V7 and MNK–eIF4E signaling pathways to suppress EMT and castration‐resistant prostate cancer xenograft growth
Authors: Ramamurthy Vidya P. , Ramalingam Senthilmurugan , Gediya Lalji K. , Njar Vincent C. O.
Published: January 2018

VNLG‐152 is a novel retinamide (NR) shown to suppress growth and progression of genetically diverse prostate cancer cells via inhibition of androgen receptor signaling and eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) translational machinery. Herein, we report therapeutic effects of VNLG‐152 on castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) growth and metastatic phenotype in a CRPC tumor xenograft model. Administration of VNLG‐152 significantly and dose‐dependently suppressed the growth of aggressive CWR22Rv1 tumors by 63.4% and 76.3% at 10 and 20 mg·kg−1 bw, respectively (P < 0.0001), vs. vehicle with no host toxicity. Strikingly, the expression of full‐length androgen receptor (f‐AR)/androgen receptor splice variant‐7 (AR‐V7), mitogen‐activated protein kinase‐interacting kinases 1 and 2 (MNK1/2), phosphorylated eIF4E and their associated target proteins, including prostate‐specific antigen, cyclin D1 and Bcl‐2, were strongly decreased in VNLG‐152‐treated tumors signifying inhibition of f‐AR/AR‐V7 and MNK–eIF4E signaling in VNLG‐152‐treated CWR22Rv1 tumors as observed in vitro. VNLG‐152 also suppressed the epithelial to mesenchymal transition in CWR22Rv1 tumors as evidenced by repression of N‐cadherin, β‐catenin, claudin, Slug, Snail, Twist, vimentin and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP‐2 and MMP‐9) with upsurge in E‐cadherin. These results highlight the promising use of VNLG‐152 in CRPC therapy and justify its further development towards clinical trials.
Large‐scale disturbance legacies and the climate sensitivity of primary Picea abies forests
Authors: Schurman Jonathan S. , Trotsiuk Volodymyr , Bače Radek , Čada Vojtěch , Fraver Shawn , Janda Pavel , Kulakowski Dominik , Labusova Jana , Mikoláš Martin , Nagel Thomas A. , Seidl Rupert , Synek Michal , Svobodová Kristýna , Chaskovskyy Oleh , Teodosiu Marius , Svoboda Miroslav
Published: January 2018

Determining the drivers of shifting forest disturbance rates remains a pressing global change issue. Large‐scale forest dynamics are commonly assumed to be climate driven, but appropriately scaled disturbance histories are rarely available to assess how disturbance legacies alter subsequent disturbance rates and the climate sensitivity of disturbance. We compiled multiple tree ring‐based disturbance histories from primary Picea abies forest fragments distributed throughout five European landscapes spanning the Bohemian Forest and the Carpathian Mountains. The regional chronology includes 11,595 tree cores, with ring dates spanning the years 1750–2000, collected from 560 inventory plots in 37 stands distributed across a 1,000 km geographic gradient, amounting to the largest disturbance chronology yet constructed in Europe. Decadal disturbance rates varied significantly through time and declined after 1920, resulting in widespread increases in canopy tree age. Approximately 75% of current canopy area recruited prior to 1900. Long‐term disturbance patterns were compared to an historical drought reconstruction, and further linked to spatial variation in stand structure and contemporary disturbance patterns derived from LANDSAT imagery. Historically, decadal Palmer drought severity index minima corresponded to higher rates of canopy removal. The severity of contemporary disturbances increased with each stand's estimated time since last major disturbance, increased with mean diameter, and declined with increasing within‐stand structural variability. Reconstructed spatial patterns suggest that high small‐scale structural variability has historically acted to reduce large‐scale susceptibility and climate sensitivity of disturbance. Reduced disturbance rates since 1920, a potential legacy of high 19th century disturbance rates, have contributed to a recent region‐wide increase in disturbance susceptibility. Increasingly common high‐severity disturbances throughout primary Picea forests of Central Europe should be reinterpreted in light of both legacy effects (resulting in increased susceptibility) and climate change (resulting in increased exposure to extreme events).
Temperature sensitivities of extracellular enzymeVmaxandKmacross thermal environments
Authors: Allison Steven D. , Romero‐Olivares Adriana L. , Lu Ying , Taylor John W. , Treseder Kathleen K.
Published: January 2018

The magnitude and direction of carbon cycle feedbacks under climate warming remain uncertain due to insufficient knowledge about the temperature sensitivities of soil microbial processes. Enzymatic rates could increase at higher temperatures, but this response could change over time if soil microbes adapt to warming. We used the Arrhenius relationship, biochemical transition state theory, and thermal physiology theory to predict the responses of extracellular enzymeVmaxandKmto temperature. Based on these concepts, we hypothesized thatVmaxandKmwould correlate positively with each other and show positive temperature sensitivities. For enzymes from warmer environments, we expected to find lowerVmax,Km, andKmtemperature sensitivity but higherVmaxtemperature sensitivity. We tested these hypotheses with isolates of the filamentous fungusNeurospora discretacollected from around the globe and with decomposing leaf litter from a warming experiment in Alaskan boreal forest. ForNeurosporaextracellular enzymes,VmaxQ10ranged from 1.48 to 2.25, andKmQ10ranged from 0.71 to 2.80. In agreement with theory,VmaxandKmwere positively correlated for some enzymes, andVmaxdeclined under experimental warming in Alaskan litter. However, the temperature sensitivities ofVmaxandKmdid not vary as expected with warming. We also found no relationship between temperature sensitivity ofVmaxorKmand mean annual temperature of the isolation site forNeurosporastrains. DecliningVmaxin the Alaskan warming treatment implies a short‐term negative feedback to climate change, but theNeurosporaresults suggest that climate‐driven changes in plant inputs and soil properties are important controls on enzyme kinetics in the long term. Our empirical data on enzymeVmax,Km, and temperature sensitivities should be useful for parameterizing existing biogeochemical models, but they reveal a need to develop new theory on thermal adaptation mechanisms.
Are North American bird species' geographic ranges mainly determined by climate?
Authors: Rich Johnathan L. , Currie David J.
Published: January 2018

Aim

It is commonly asserted that climate presents the primary constraint on species’ geographic distributions, and that species’ distributions should therefore shift to track changing climate. However, the evidence is surprisingly mixed about the causal link between species’ distributions and climate. Correlations between distributions and climate may be indirect, reflecting influences of other spatially structured habitat variables (e.g., land cover) and/or population processes (e.g., dispersal). Here, we ask if species’ geographic distributions are more strongly related to climate, or to other spatially structured variables.

Location

The contiguous United States and southern Canada.

Time period

1990–2000.

Major taxa studied

North American passerine birds.

Methods

We used the breeding‐season distributions of 19 widespread species of passerine birds whose breeding‐season distributions fall entirely within the area sampled by the North American Breeding Bird Survey. We related these distributions to temperature and precipitation, geographic coordinates, and the degree of occupation of neighboring sites by conspecifics. Two spatial scales were examined: the geographic location of species’ ranges within North America, and site occupancy within species' ranges. We examine these relationships using generalized linear models, structural equation modeling, random forest models and spatial correlograms.

Results

On average, geographic coordinates and a model of neighborhood occupancy outperform a simple climatic model. After controlling for geographic coordinates, species occupancy is poorly related to climate. Neighborhood occupancy accounts for the majority of variance captured by geographic coordinates within ranges, and more for the continental placement of ranges. On average, species’ distributions are more strongly and more directly related to spatial coordinates, and neighborhood occupancy, than to climate.

Main conclusions

Our results are inconsistent with the hypothesis that climate is the primary, direct determinant of species’ geographic distributions. Rather, other spatially structured factors appear to be stronger determinants of both continental range placement and within‐range distributions of this sample of North American birds.
Expression of PD‐L1 correlates with pleomorphic morphology and histological patterns of non‐small‐cell lung carcinomas
Authors: Ng Kee Kwong Francois , Laggner Ute , McKinney Olivia , Croud James , Rice Alexandra , Nicholson Andrew G
Published: January 2018

Aims

As immunomodulatory therapy is being integrated into treatment regimens for non‐small‐cell lung carcinoma, we aimed to prospectively collect data on the immunohistochemical profile of tumours assessed in our institution and to correlate this with morphological tumour features.

Methods and results

Immunohistochemistry for programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) was considered to be adequate when >100 tumour cells were seen microscopically. When adequate, PD‐L1 staining was scored as <1%, ≥1–49% or ≥50% positive membrane staining within tumour cells only. There were 197 assessable cases, of which 87% of those with pleomorphic features (n = 39) showed ≥50% positivity for PD‐L1 expression, as compared with only 33% of cases without pleomorphic features (P < 0.05) (90% versus 25% in resected cases). Further correlation of PD‐L1 expression with architectural patterns within the tumours was performed in 74 adenocarcinoma resections. All invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas scored <1%. All lepidic components in non‐mucinous adenocarcinoma resections scored <1%. Thirty‐five per cent of the acinar/papillary components and 53% of the solid/micropapillary components were positive for PD‐L1 expression.

Conclusions

There are significant differences in PD‐L1 expression in relation to histological patterns, with particularly high levels in those with pleomorphic features and low/undetectable levels in invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas and the lepidic components of non‐mucinous adenocarcinomas. Assessment of PD‐L1 expression in a resected adenocarcinoma with a lepidic component may therefore not be reliable when immumodulatory therapy for recurrent disease is being considered, and either re‐biopsy or limiting assessment to the invasive component may be more appropriate.
MAIT cells: an historical and evolutionary perspective
Authors: Lantz Olivier , Legoux François
Published: January 2018

In humans, MAIT cells represent the most abundant T‐cell subset reacting against bacteria. MAIT cells belong to the evolutionarily conserved family of “preset” T cells that includes also NKT cells. Both subsets are selected by double positive thymocytes leading to common features such as PLZF expression. Preset T cells correspond to subsets prepositioned in specific tissue locations with preprogrammed versatile effector functions such as antimicrobial functions and possibly also metabolic control and tissue repair activity. Herein, we recall how several groups studying human samples discovered MAIT cells as T cells expressing either a restricted T‐cell receptors (TCR) repertoire or homogeneous and singular phenotypic and functional characteristics. We then highlight the main evolutionary features of this subset and its restricting element, MR1 (MHC‐related protein (1) with a striking coevolution of TRAV1 and MR1. We introduce another evolutionarily conserved invariant TCRalpha chain coevolving with another MHC class Ib molecule, called MHX, sharing phylogenetic features with MR1. We finally discuss the relationship between MAIT cells and other subsets reacting to microbial antigens or to compounds presented by MR1 in light of confounding experimental issues.
Restorations in primary teeth: a systematic review on survival and reasons for failures
Authors: Chisini Luiz Alexandre , Collares Kauê , Cademartori Mariana Gonzalez , de Oliveira Luísa Jardim Corrêa , Conde Marcus Cristian Muniz , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Corrêa Marcos Britto
Published: January 2018

Background

Several restorative materials with specific indications are used for filling cavities in primary teeth.

Aim

To systematically review the literature in order to investigate the longevity of primary teeth restorations and the reasons for failure.

Design

Electronic databases were screened, and eligible studies were hand‐searched to find longitudinal clinical studies evaluating the survival of restorations (class I, class II, and crown) placed with different materials in primary teeth with at least one year of follow‐up.

Results

Thirty‐one studies were included, and a high bias risk was observed. Overall, 12,047 restorations were evaluated with 12.5% of failure rate. A high variation on annual failure rate (AFR) was detected (0–29.9%). Composite resin showed the lowest AFRs (1.7–12.9%). Stainless steel crowns (SSC) had the highest success rate (96.1%). Class I restorations and restorations placed using rubber dam presented better AFR. The main reason for failure observed was secondary caries (36.5%).

Conclusions

An elevated number of failures were observed due to recurrent caries, highlighting the need for professionals to work with a health‐promoting approach. The high variation on failure rate among the materials can be due to children's behavior during the procedure, which demands short dental appointments and a controlled environment.
Ten years of clinical trial registration in a resource‐limited setting: Experience of the Sri Lanka clinical trials registry
Authors: Ranawaka Udaya K. , de Abrew Ashwini , Wimalachandra Manu , Samaranayake Nithushi , Goonaratna Colvin
Published: January 2018

Aim

We describe our experience of the first 10 years at the Sri Lanka Clinical Trials Registry (SLCTR).

Methods

We analyzed all trial records of the SLCTR over the study period. We collected information regarding trial characteristics and completeness of data entry in the SLCTR data set.

Results

During the study period, 210 trials (63% of all applications) were registered with the SLCTR. The number of registered trials showed an increasing trend over the years. All trial registrations had complete entries for all the data fields studied. Only 17.6% of the trials were registered retrospectively. All the registered trials were interventional studies, and the majority (87.6%) were randomized controlled trials. A significant proportion of trials (28.6%) were on noncommunicable diseases, and 12.4% were on pregnancy and its outcomes. Several trials (9.5%) were international collaborative studies. A majority of the Principal Investigators (70.9%) were affiliated to a university. Most of the studies (41.9%) were self‐funded by the investigators. Details of ethics review committee approval were available for 96.7% of registered trials. Over a third of the registered trials (37.1%) had completed recruitment at the time of analysis. A majority of the trials (72.8%) had updated trial data since registration.

Conclusions

There is a steady increase in the number of trials registered at the SLCTR. Complete entries for all the data fields were seen in all trial registrations. The SLCTR has made a positive contribution to the emergence of a healthy clinical research environment in Sri Lanka.
Mediterranean fruit fly subplot hot spots prediction by experts' experience
Authors: Mendelsohn O. , Dayan T. , Aidlin‐Harari S. , Silberstein M. , Orlov V. , Blank L.
Published: January 2018

The Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly), Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), is a major pest, infesting hundreds of crop types. Since current field monitoring is mostly manual, understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of pest emergence at the fine scale can optimize precise trap placement and site‐specific treatment activities, also within area wide integrated pest management projects. We carried out a three‐year study in deciduous orchards in Israel, testing for the existence of subplot hot spots in which medfly populations display small‐scale aggregations over consecutive seasons, beyond the expected spatial variability resulting from host type and ripening sequence. medfly population increase in these locations often preceded or was parallel to infestations in surrounding orchards, suggesting that hot spots can provide an important tool for effective prediction and control of pest emergence. We also examined the use of expert knowledge to predict hot spot locations and suggest a methodology for verifying them.
Influence of Prehospital Function and Strength on Outcomes of Critically Ill Older Adults
Authors: Files D. Clark , Neiberg Rebecca , Rushing Julia , Morris Peter E. , Young Michael P. , Ayonayon Hilsa , Harris Tamara , Newman Anne , Rubin Susan , Shiroma Eric , Houston Denise , Miller Michael E. , Kritchevsky Stephen B.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To understand the influence of prehospital physical function and strength on clinical outcomes of critically ill older adults.

Design

Secondary analysis of prospective cohort study.

Setting

Health, Aging and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study.

Participants

Of 3,075 older adult Health ABC participants, we identified 575 (60% white, 61% male, mean age 79) with prehospital function or grip strength measurements within 2 years of an intensive care unit stay.

Measurements

The primary analysis evaluated the association between prehospital walk speed and mortality, and secondary analyses focused on associations between function or grip strength and mortality or hospital length of stay. Function and grip strength were analyzed as continuous and categorical predictors.

Results

Slower prehospital walk speed was associated with greater risk of 30‐day mortality (for each 0.1 m/s slower, odds ratio = 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.04–1.23, P = .004). Grip strength, chair stands, and balance had weaker, non‐statistically significant associations with 30‐day mortality. Participants with slower prehospital walk speed (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.90–0.98, P = .005) and weak grip strength (HR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.73–0.99, P = .03) were less likely to be discharged from the hospital alive. All function and strength measures were significantly associated with 1‐year mortality.

Conclusion

Slow prehospital walk speed was strongly associated with greater 30‐day mortality and longer hospital stay in critically ill older adults, and measures of function and strength were associated with 1‐year mortality. These data add to the accumulating evidence on the relationship between physical function and critical care outcomes.
Nurses’ Perceptions on the Overuse of Health Services: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ellen Moriah E. , Perlman Saritte ,   Nursing Students Research Group
Published: January 2018

Purpose

To examine whether nurses in Israel think there is overuse of health services, the reasons behind the issue, and ways to reduce the overuse.

Design

This was a qualitative study using semistructured interviews. A convenience sample of community care nurses from health clinics across Israel was interviewed. Interviews focused on common areas of overuse, outcomes of overuse, causes of overuse, and potential ways to address the issue. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically.

Findings

Overuse of antibiotics, imaging, blood tests, and prenatal surveillance were cited as main areas of health service overuse. Participants stated that negative outcomes of overuse could be seen at patient, health system, and population levels. Factors influencing overuse included patient satisfaction, physician fears, and insecurities. Potential interventions included improving physicians’ diagnostic confidence, increasing appointment times, providing patients with more treatment information, and implementing a unified computerized system across medical institutions.

Conclusions

Nurses mentioned physicians and patients as main actors in influencing overuse; hence, those populations should be researched further. The health system was identified as the responsible party to address the issue. Health system leaders must consider potential barriers, and investigate interventions that match current culture and context within the health system.

Clinical Relevance

Nurses can play an essential role in limiting overuse and mitigating subsequent harms to patients.
A mixed methods thematic review: Health‐related decision‐making by the older person
Authors: King Lindy , Harrington Ann , Linedale Ecushla , Tanner Elizabeth
Published: January 2018

Aims and objectives

To undertake a mixed methods thematic literature review that explored how elderly adults approached decision‐making in regard to their health care following discharge.

Background

A critical time for appropriate health decisions occurs during hospital discharge planning with nursing staff. However, little is known how the 89% of elderly living at home make decisions regarding their health care. Research into older adults’ management of chronic conditions emerges as an important step to potentially encourage symptom monitoring, prevent missed care and detect deterioration. All should reduce the risk of hospital re‐admission.

Design

A mixed methods thematic literature review was undertaken. The structure followed the PRISMA reporting guidelines for systematic reviews recommended by the EQUATOR network.

Methods

PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Scopus online databases were searched using keywords, inclusion and exclusion criteria. References drawn from relevant publications, identified by experts and published between 1995 and 2017 were also considered. Twenty‐five qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies and reviews were critically appraised (CASP 2013) before inclusion in the review. Analysis of each study's findings was undertaken using Braun and Clarke's (2006) steps to identify major themes and sub‐themes.

Results

Four main themes associated with health‐related decision‐making in the elderly were identified: “the importance of maintaining independence,” “decision making style,” “management of conditions at home” and “discharge planning.”

Conclusion

Health care decision preferences in the elderly emerged as highly complex and influenced by multiple factors. Development of a tool to assess these components has been recommended.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses play a vital role in exploring and understanding the influence that maintaining independence has with each patient. This understanding provides an initial step toward development of a tool to assist collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals involved in their care.
The employee retention triad in health care: Exploring relationships amongst organisational justice, affective commitment and turnover intention
Authors: Perreira Tyrone A , Berta Whitney , Herbert Monique
Published: January 2018

Aims and objectives

To increase understanding of the relationships between organisational justice, affective commitment and turnover intention in health care.

Background

Turnover in health care is a serious concern, as it contributes to the global nursing shortage and is associated with declines in quality of care, patient safety and patient outcomes. Turnover also impacts care teams and is associated with decreased staff cohesion and morale.

Methods

A survey was developed and administered to frontline nurses working in the Province of Ontario, Canada. The data were used to test a hypothetical model developed from a review of the literature. The relationships amongst the three constructs were evaluated using structural equation modelling and mediation analysis.

Results

The hypothesised model was generally supported, although we were limited to considerations of interpersonal justice, affective commitment to one's organisation and turnover intention. Interpersonal justice is associated with affective commitment to one's organisation, which is negatively associated with turnover intention. Interpersonal justice was also found to be directly and negatively associated with turnover intention. Affective commitment to one's organisation was also found to mediate the relationship between interpersonal justice and turnover intention.

Conclusions

The examination of relationships within the “employee retention triad” in a single, comprehensive model is novel and provides new information regarding relational complexity and insights into what healthcare leaders can do to retain employees.

Relevance to clinical practice

Reducing turnover may help to decrease some of the stressors related to turnover for clinical staff remaining at the organisation such as constant onboarding and orientation of new hires, working with less experienced staff and increased workload due to decreased staffing.
Effect of Different Liners on Fracture Resistance of Premolars Restored with Conventional and Short Fiber‐Reinforced Composite Resins
Authors: Shafiei Fereshteh , Doozandeh Maryam , Ghaffaripour Dordaneh
Published: January 2018

Purpose

To see whether applying four different liners under short fiber‐reinforced composite (SFRC), everX Posterior, compared to conventional composite resin, Z250, affected their strengthening property in premolar MOD cavities.

Materials and Methods

Mesio‐occluso‐distal (MOD) cavities were prepared in 120 sound maxillary premolars divided into 10 groups (n = 12) in terms of two composite resin types and 4 liners or no liner. For each composite resin, in 5 groups no liner, resin‐modified glass ionomer (RMGI), conventional flowable composite (COFL), self‐adhesive flowable composite resin (SAFL), and self‐adhesive resin cement (SARC) were applied prior to restoring incrementally. After water storage and thermocycling, static fracture resistance was tested. Data (in Newtons) were analyzed using two‐way ANOVA (α = 0.05).

Results

Fracture resistance was significantly affected by composite resin type (p = 0.02), but not by the liner (p > 0.05). The interaction of the two factors was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). SFRC exhibited higher fracture strength (1470 ± 200 N) compared to conventional composite resin (1350 ± 290), irrespective of the application of liners. Application of SARC and SAFL liners led to a higher number of restorable fractures for both composite resins.

Conclusions

The four liners can be used without interfering with the higher efficacy of SFRC, compared to conventional composite resins, to improve the fracture strength of premolar MOD cavities.
Polyetheretherketone Overlay Prosthesis over High Noble Ball Attachments to Overcome Base Metal Sensitivity: A Clinical Report
Authors: Zoidis Panagiotis
Published: January 2018

A modified polyetheretherketone (PEEK) framework material in combination with heat‐polymerized denture base acrylic resin was used for the fabrication of an overlay prosthesis for a patient sensitive to base metals. High noble metal was used for the fabrication of the post/coping/ball attachment assemblies to promote retention and stability. These protruding attachments into the acrylic resin could result in stress concentration; therefore, a framework is often used to strengthen the prosthesis. PEEK frameworks could be a treatment alternative to high noble or Ti frameworks since they combine good mechanical properties with biocompatibility, reduced cost, and common laboratory procedures.
Direct Fiber‐Reinforced Interim Fixed Partial Dentures: Six‐Year Survival Study
Authors: Goguta Luciana Maria , Candea Adrian , Lungeanu Diana , Frandes Mirela , Jivanescu Anca
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Mechanical and optical studies of glass fiber composites have revealed great resistance and satisfactory bonds between the glass fibers and composite resins. This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term survival of anterior and posterior direct glass fiber‐reinforced composite (FRC) fixed partial dentures (FPD).

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐three patients (9 men, 14 women) aged 18 to 67 received 23 d‐FRC‐FPDs. The frameworks of the FPDs were unidirectional pre‐impregnated glass fibers (ever Stick C&B). The retainers were inlay composite resin retainers (n1 = 19) and composite resin wings (n2 = 4). The FPD that used inlay retainers and composite resin wing retainers was called the hybrid design. The mean follow‐up period was 4.91 years with 12‐month check‐ups performed by two independent operators. The survival rates of the glass fiber FPDs were determined.

Results

Six‐year survival rates for the two types of FPDs were 94.7% for the inlay retainer type versus 25% for the hybrid type, with a statistically significant difference (log‐rank test χ2(1) = 11.422, p = 0.001). The inlay retainers were functional, with only one patient with a fracture line in the connector held by the glass fibers. Kaplan‐Meier survival curves were drawn to show the difference between the two types of retainers.

Conclusion

According to the results of this study, these long‐term interim FRC‐FPD were resistant enough to allow mastication, minimally invasive and also esthetic, with inlay composite retainers as the better solution.
Using Enamel Matrix Derivative to Improve Treatment Efficacy in Periodontal Furcation Defects
Authors: Masaeli Reza , Zandsalimi Kavosh , Lotfi Zahra , Tayebi Lobat
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Furcations are complicated periodontal defects. Untreated furcations lead to loss of the involved teeth and supporting tissues. It has been demonstrated that regenerative biomaterials are beneficial in reconstruction of the bone surrounding furcation‐affected teeth. These biomaterials range from bone grafts and nonresorbable/resorbable barrier membranes to biologics that are able to trigger inactive regenerative processes in periodontal tissues. Selection of appropriate material(s) to treat furcations is challenging. The aim of this article is to provide a comparative outlook on different biomaterials applicable in regeneration of furcations with a focus on enamel matrix derivative (EMD).

Methods

Scientific databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and EMBASE were searched, and 28 articles were found primarily for this specific study. Full texts were studied to identify relevant studies; 17 studies were excluded because of irrelevancy, while 11 main studies were ultimately selected. Other references have been used for general statements.

Results

EMD is a protein complex widely used in the regeneration of different periodontal defects. To assess the effects of EMD for treatment of root furcations, clinical studies involving EMD with and without barrier membranes and bone grafts were selected and compared. Briefly, this study reveals that when EMD is combined with open flap debridement (OFD), guided tissue regeneration (GTR), or bone grafting (BG), the amount of class II furcations converted to class I increases significantly. EMD also reduces tissue swelling and patient discomfort after treatment.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence to find the best combination of biomaterials to treat furcation defects. The best results are obtained if EMD is combined with β‐TCP/HA alloplastic bone grafts.
Effects of sleep on the realization of complex plans
Authors: Barner Christine , Altgassen Mareike , Born Jan , Diekelmann Susanne
Published: January 2018

Sleep consolidates newly encoded memories, particularly those memories that are relevant for future behaviour. This study explored whether sleep facilitates the successful execution of relatively complex plans in the future. We applied the Dresden Breakfast Task, in which subjects are instructed to prepare a virtual breakfast comprising several tasks (e.g. table‐setting, preparing eggs). After forming a detailed plan how to realize these tasks, the sleep group (n = 17) spent a night of sleep at home, monitored by polysomnography, and the wake group (n = 19) spent a normal day awake, monitored by actigraphy. After a 12‐h interval, all participants were asked to prepare the virtual breakfast. Contrary to our hypothesis, overall performance in breakfast preparation did not differ significantly between the sleep and wake groups. However, sleep participants performed better in one of six tasks, specifically the ‘table‐setting’ task (P < 0.01), which was driven by higher scores in a subtask measuring the correct position of the tableware (P < 0.01). Additional exploratory analyses revealed that a significant number of wake participants performed below the minimal score of the sleep group (P < 0.01) and sleep participants achieved the maximal score in significantly more subtasks than wake participants (57% versus 27%; P = 0.018). Plan adherence, assessing how well participants adhered to their own previously developed plan, did not differ between the sleep and wake groups. These findings provide the first evidence that sleep may support some aspects of the realization of complex, somewhat naturalistic plans.
Microvascular involvement in systemic sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Saygin Didem , Highland Kristin B. , Tonelli Adriano R.
Published: January 2018

Microvascular changes play central roles in the pathophysiology of SSc and SLE, and represent major causes of morbidity and mortality in these patients. Therefore, clinical tools that can assess the microvasculature are of great importance both at the time of diagnosis and follow‐up of these cases. These tools include capillaroscopy, laser imaging techniques, infrared thermography, and iontophoresis. In this review, we examined the clinical manifestations and pathobiology of microvascular involvement in SSc and SLE as well as the methodologies used to evaluate the microvasculature.
Sensitive Survey Questions: Measuring Attitudes Regarding Female Genital Cutting Through a List Experiment
Authors: De Cao Elisabetta , Lutz Clemens
Published: January 2018

Potential bias in survey responses is higher if sensitive outcomes are measured. This study analyses attitudes towards female genital cutting (FGC) in Ethiopia. A list experiment is designed to elicit truthful answers about FGC support and compares these outcomes with the answers given to a direct question. Our results confirm that the average bias is substantial as answers to direct questions underestimate the FGC support by about 10 percentage points. Moreover, our results provide suggestive but not statistically significant evidence that this bias is more pronounced among uneducated women and women targeted by an NGO intervention (not randomly assigned).
Pediatric heart transplantation—What are the risk factors for pacemaker implantation and how much pacing is required?
Authors: Herrmann Florian Ernst Martin , Wellmann Petra , Hagl Christian , Juchem Gerd
Published: January 2018

Background

In an attempt to improve pacemaker therapy after pediatric transplantation, we investigated risk factors, indication for pacing, and pacing burden after pediatric heart transplantation.

Methods and results

In this retrospective study, 139 pediatric heart transplant recipients, of whom 122 did not and 17 did require pacemakers, were investigated. Eleven of the 17 patients requiring a permanent pacemaker (PPM) received their heart from a female donor (68.8%); this compares to 48 of 122 patients (43.2%, P  =  0.082) in the group not requiring a pacemaker (No PPM). The donor age and height were significantly greater in the PPM group at a median of 25.26 years (16.29–48.00) and 160 cm (153–170) compared with 11.96 years (1.73–19.95) and 141 cm (89–165) in the No PPM group (P  =  0.003 and 0.015, respectively). Of the 17 patients requiring pacemakers, 13 presented with sinus node dysfunction (SND) and four with atrioventricular block. The atrial pacing burden in patients with SND remained above 60% within the 5 years of follow‐up investigated. There was no significant difference in mortality between those patients requiring a PPM and those not (Log‐Rank test: P  =  0.672).

Conclusion

We found that in our cohort donor characteristics were key risk factors for pacemaker implantation in transplanted children. The data suggest that when patients require a pacemaker in posttransplant SND, they will require a relevant amount of pacing for at least 5 years. The pacing burden after this point remains to be investigated. Mortality does not differ between pediatric heart transplant patients with and without pacemakers.
Three strategies for attaining legitimacy in policy knowledge: Coherence in identity, process and outcome
Authors: Williams Kate
Published: January 2018

At a time when truth and facts are highly contested, understanding how knowledge gains legitimacy is crucial. Creating valuable policy knowledge involves navigating ‘a space between fields’, where actors and ideas from different social worlds come into play. This article outlines a novel set of strategies for attaining legitimacy within this space. Drawing on mixed‐methods analysis of interview and publication data from 12 development research organizations, the article argues that legitimacy centres around three primary types of ‘coherence’. Coherence in identity is the demonstration of ‘proper’ goals via negotiation of organizational and individual identity. Coherence in process is the demonstration of ‘proper’ processes through maintenance of independence, integrity and transparency. Coherence in outcome is the demonstration of ‘proper’ outcomes via creation of the ‘right’ products, audience and impact. Mastery of these three areas makes possible the production of credible, distinctive and significant knowledge.
Community interest and feasibility of using a novel smartphone‐based formaldehyde exposure detection technology
Authors: Castner Jessica , Gehrke Gretchen E. , Shapiro Nicholas , Dannemiller Karen C.
Published: January 2018

Objective

This study is the first community engagement phase of a project to develop a residential formaldehyde detection system. The objectives were to conduct a feasibility assessment for device use, and identify factors associated with concerns about environmental exposure and community interest in this device.

Design and Sample

A cross‐sectional, internet‐based survey employing community‐based participatory research principles was utilized. 147 individuals participated from a focused Waycross, Georgia (58.5%) and broader national sample (41.5%).

Measures

Variables included acceptable cost and number of testing samples, interest in conducting tests, levels of concern over pollutants, health status, housing, and demographics.

Results

The majority of participants desired a system with fewer than 10 samples at ≤$15.00 per sample. Statistically significant higher levels of concern over air quality, formaldehyde exposure, and interest in testing formaldehyde were observed for those with overall worse health status and living in the Waycross, Georgia geographic region. Significant differences in formaldehyde testing interest were observed by health status (OR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.12–0.81 for home testing) and geographic location (OR = 3.16, 95% CI = 1.22–8.14 for home and OR = 4.06, 95% CI = 1.48–11.12 for ambient testing) in multivariate models.

Conclusions

Geographic location and poorer general health status were associated with concerns over and interest in formaldehyde testing.
Atmospheric nitrogen deposition on petals enhances seed quality of the forest herb Anemone nemorosa
Authors: De Frenne P. , Blondeel H. , Brunet J. , Carón M. M. , Chabrerie O. , Cougnon M. , Cousins S. A. O. , Decocq G. , Diekmann M. , Graae B. J. , Hanley M. E. , Heinken T. , Hermy M. , Kolb A. , Lenoir J. , Liira J. , Orczewska A. , Shevtsova A. , Vanneste T. , Verheyen K.
Published: January 2018

Elevated atmospheric input of nitrogen (N) is currently affecting plant biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. The growth and survival of numerous plant species is known to respond strongly to N fertilisation. Yet, few studies have assessed the effects of N deposition on seed quality and reproductive performance, which is an important life‐history stage of plants.

Here we address this knowledge gap by assessing the effects of atmospheric N deposition on seed quality of the ancient forest herb Anemone nemorosa using two complementary approaches.

By taking advantage of the wide spatiotemporal variation in N deposition rates in pan‐European temperate and boreal forests over 2 years, we detected positive effects of N deposition on the N concentration (percentage N per unit seed mass, increased from 2.8% to 4.1%) and N content (total N mass per seed more than doubled) of A. nemorosa seeds. In a complementary experiment, we applied ammonium nitrate to aboveground plant tissues and the soil surface to determine whether dissolved N sources in precipitation could be incorporated into seeds. Although the addition of N to leaves and the soil surface had no effect, a concentrated N solution applied to petals during anthesis resulted in increased seed mass, seed N concentration and N content.

Our results demonstrate that N deposition on the petals enhances bioaccumulation of N in the seeds of A. nemorosa. Enhanced atmospheric inputs of N can thus not only affect growth and population dynamics via root or canopy uptake, but can also influence seed quality and reproduction via intake through the inflorescences.
Barriers to ecosystem restoration presented by soil legacy effects of invasive alien N2‐fixing woody species: implications for ecological restoration
Authors: Nsikani Mlungele M. , van Wilgen Brian W. , Gaertner Mirijam
Published: January 2018

Impacts of invasive alien N2‐fixing woody species and how they can persist as soil legacy effects after invasive species control are well appreciated, but how soil legacy effects can present barriers to restoration is poorly understood. Finding better ways to deal with these barriers to restoration is essential to improving restoration outcomes. In this study, we review 440 studies to identify barriers to restoration and potential management actions for the barriers to restoration, and provide practical application examples of the management actions. Our findings suggest that altered soil microbial communities, depleted native soil seed banks, elevated N status, secondary invasion and weedy native species dominance, and reinvasion are potential barriers to restoration. Furthermore, carbon addition, litter removal, soil microbial treatments, establishing species adapted to low N levels, prescribed burning, classical biological control, grazing, mowing, herbicide or graminicide application, manual weeding, soil N management, soil solarization, weed mats, native species reintroduction, and nurse plants are potential management actions for these barriers to restoration. However, there is little evidence suggesting that several of these barriers to restoration hinder improved restoration outcomes and this could be due to little research on them. More research is needed to assess their relative importance in hindering improved restoration outcomes. Management actions are rarely applied in combination, despite that they often address distinct barriers to restoration. Management actions should be combined into an integrated management effort to improve restoration outcomes.
Molecular phylogeny and higher systematics of the metalmark butterflies (Lepidoptera: Riodinidae)
Authors: SERAPHIM NOEMY , KAMINSKI LUCAS A. , DEVRIES PHILIP J. , PENZ CARLA , CALLAGHAN CURTIS , WAHLBERG NIKLAS , SILVA‐BRANDÃO KARINA L. , FREITAS ANDRÉ V.L.
Published: January 2018

Riodinidae is a highly diverse butterfly family with the majority of its genera restricted to the Neotropics and, despite previous efforts, its higher systematics remains unresolved. Here, we propose a novel phylogenetic hypothesis, based on a comprehensive sample of riodinids, primarily from the Neotropics, covering 67% of all genera and all of the major lineages. We sequenced nine molecular markers and estimated resulting phylogenies with maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches, using both timed trees and time‐independent trees. We based calibration on three fossil Riodinidae, and reassessed the position of the oldest fossil. We also incorporated 52 samples from a previous study providing a comprehensive maximum likelihood tree for 304 species comprising 80% of all genera. We propose a new higher classification of the Riodinidae with two subfamilies: the Nemeobiinae, including the Old World riodinids and their Neotropical sister Euselasia Hübner; and the Riodininae, comprising all remaining genera. We divided Riodininae into nine tribes (including four new tribes: Calydnini Seraphim, Freitas & Kaminski trib.n.; Sertaniini Seraphim, Freitas & Kaminski trib.n.; Dianesiini Seraphim, Freitas & Kaminski trib.n.; and Emesidini Seraphim, Freitas & Kaminski trib.n.), with Mesosemiini and Nymphidiini further subdivided into two and seven subtribes (including three new subtribes for Nymphidiini: Zabuellina Seraphim, Freitas & Kaminski subtrib.n.; Pachythonina Seraphim, Freitas & Kaminski subtrib.n.; and Pandemina Seraphim, Freitas & Kaminski subtrib.n.). Although our phylogenetic hypotheses are generally congruent with the analyses by Espeland et al. (2015), the comprehensive taxon sampling employed here constitutes a large step towards a stable tribal‐level classification. All taxonomic changes are summarized in a checklist. Despite most genera being restricted to tropical South and Central America, the oldest known fossil of Riodininae belongs to the Green River formation (42.6–50.2 Ma) in North America. Accordingly, we reassess the family's crown age at 56 Ma (52.4–60.7 Ma), which is at variance with previous dating using secondary calibrations and a different subset of genes. Nonmonophyletic riodinid genera are ubiquitous, and several groups need further revision, including groups revised recently. Our results point to the need for integrative taxonomy, as adult morphology seems to be have been exhausted as a single data source in this family.

This published work has been registered on Zoobank, http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:BCA2DDC5‐753B‐4178‐8E7B‐B7ED1E995CE8.