bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An investigation of the structural properties of Li and Na fast ion conductors using high-throughput bond-valence calculations and machine learning
Authors: Katcho Nebil A. , Carrete Jesús , Reynaud Marine , Rousse Gwenaëlle , Casas-Cabanas Montse , Mingo Natalio , Rodríguez-Carvajal Juan , Carrasco Javier
Published: February 2019

Progress in energy-related technologies demands new and improved materials with high ionic conductivities. Na- and Li-based compounds have high priority in this regard owing to their importance for batteries. This work presents a high-throughput exploration of the chemical space for such compounds. The results suggest that there are significantly fewer Na-based conductors with low migration energies as compared to Li-based ones. This is traced to the fact that, in contrast to Li, the low diffusion barriers hinge on unusual values of some structural properties. Crystal structures are characterized through descriptors derived from bond-valence theory, graph percolation and geometric analysis. A machine-learning analysis reveals that the ion migration energy is mainly determined by the global bottleneck for ion migration, by the coordination number of the cation and by the volume fraction of the mobile species. This workflow has been implemented in the open-source Crystallographic Fortran Modules Library (CrysFML) and the program BondStr. A ranking of Li- and Na-based ionic compounds with low migration energies is provided.
Measurement of quadratic electrogyration effect in KDP crystals for light propagating along the optical axis
Authors: Izdebski Marek
Published: February 2019

In this paper, a method of measuring the β31 coefficient of the quadratic electrogyration effect in potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP)-type crystals is proposed. It is shown that this very weak effect can be decoupled from other stronger effects occurring simultaneously in the real measuring system, even when small inaccuracies in crystal cutting and alignment are taken into account. Theoretical and numerical analyses are illustrated by experimental data obtained for the KDP crystal. High sensitivity, which is required for successful measurements at room and higher temperatures, has been achieved by using the polarimetric method for a light beam propagating along the optical axis of the crystal in combination with the lock-in technique and a new measurement procedure that compensates for the contribution of other effects such as electro-optic effects, natural birefringence and dichroism. It was found that the β31 coefficient measured at a wavelength of 632.8 nm decreases linearly from 2.53 × 10−21 m2 V−2 at a temperature of 298 K to 2.08 × 10−21 m2 V−2 at 343 K.
Imaging artefacts of artificial diving waves in reverse time migration: cause analysis in the angle domain and an effective removal strategy
Authors: Liu Shaoyong , Yan Zhe , Gu Hanming , Tang Yongjie , Liu Chuncheng
Published: February 2019

In areas with strong velocity gradients, traditional reverse time migration based on cross‐correlation imaging condition not only produces low‐frequency noise but also generates diving wave artefacts. The artefacts caused by diving waves have no typical low‐frequency characteristics and cannot be eliminated by simple high‐pass filtering approaches. We apply the wave‐field decomposition imaging condition to analyse the causes of false images in reverse time migration by decomposing the full wave‐field into up‐going and down‐going components in the angle domain. We find that artificial diving wave imaging artefacts, which are generated by the cross‐correlation between the up‐going source and down‐going receiver wave‐fields in areas with strong velocity gradients, arise at large angles. We propose an efficient strategy by means of the wavelength‐dependent smoothing operator to eliminate artefacts from artificial diving waves in reverse time migration. Specifically, the proposed method provides more reasonable down‐going wave‐fields in areas with sharp velocity constructs by considering the factor of varying seismic wavelengths during wave propagation, and the artificial components of diving waves are eliminated in a straightforward manner. Meanwhile, the other wave‐field components that contribute to true subsurface images are minimally affected. Benefiting from a smoothed velocity, the proposed method can be adapted to the traditional reverse time migration imaging frame, which reveals significant implementation potential for the seismic exploration industry. A salt model is designed and included to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Development of a diabetes‐related nutrition knowledge questionnaire for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Singapore
Authors: Han Chad Y. , Zheng Xiaomei , Lee Lin F. , Chan Cherie G.B. , Lee Yi Q. , Zailani Nani A. , Ng Karin , Bhaskaran Kalpana
Published: February 2019

Aim

Diabetes‐related nutrition knowledge (DRNK) is essential for the self‐care of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A specific tool measuring DRNK can help us to understand awareness levels and tailor structured nutrition education programs. Our study aimed to develop a questionnaire to assess DRNK for individuals with T2DM in Singapore.

Methods

An expert panel was formed to consolidate in‐depth, culturally suitable, and current information on DRNK. A literature review of diabetes self‐care knowledge questionnaires was performed to outline the scope of the questionnaire and generate a question pool. User friendliness was tested in the first draft of the questionnaire (n = 21). Then, a second draft was tested for item difficulty, discrimination index, and internal consistency (n = 62). The final draft was examined for construct validity and test–retest reliability (n = 100).

Results

The final questionnaire (four sections: 27 questions) was found to be consistent and reliable. The item difficulty scores of the selected questions ranged from difficult to desirable (2–85). There was fair to good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.66, 0.79, 0.56, and 0.78 for Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively) and construct validity (independent t‐test: P < 0.001). Questions in the final questionnaire had an average discrimination index of 0.3 (reasonably good). The questionnaire was revealed to have good test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation: 0.82–0.84).

Conclusions

The DRNK questionnaire is a valid and reliable measure to complement assessment tools measuring self‐efficacy/behaviour in individuals with T2DM living in Singapore.
Quantification of the activity of detoxifying enzymes in terrestrial invertebrates: Optimization, evaluation and use of in vitro and ex vivo methods
Authors: Pedersen Kathrine E. , Fredensborg Brian L. , Jensen Annette B. , Cedergreen Nina
Published: February 2019

The negative effects of pesticides on beneficial terrestrial invertebrates have received much attention, and in this context quantification of the activity of metabolic enzymes provides an important tool. Unfortunately, current methodologies are limited in their use.

In this study, the grain beetle, Tenebrio molitor was used to illustrate why in vitro methods are ineffective to quantify metabolic enzymes in some insects. It was further used to optimize an ex vivo assay that can replace in vitro methods when these are ineffective. The ex vivo method can quantify metabolic enzymatic activities of cytochrome P450 mixed function oxidases (CYPs), general esterases (EST) and glutathione S‐transferases (GST).

In detail we show, that T. molitor produces inhibitory and/or degrading agents, which are released during tissue homogenization. As these agents inhibit the in vitro CYP activity of rat liver microsomes we suggest, that they are also responsible for the lack of in vitro CYP activity of T. molitor. We tested the effectiveness of broad‐spectrum protease inhibitors as protective agents and found, that they were only effective in concentrations that also interfered directly with the activity of CYP enzymes. As an alternative to in vitro measurements, we optimized an ex vivo method for quantification of CYP, EST and GST on individual gut systems of T. molitor. Our ex vivo method advances previous ex vivo methods, by allowing quantification of three major enzyme families, all in a single individual, and by exploiting real‐time kinetic measurements of the enzymatically produced product.

Subsequently, our method was successfully tested for its use on three different life stages: larvae, pupae, and adult insects from T. molitor and Apis mellifera. The method shows promise for expansion to other species and potentially other enzyme families and/or substrates.
Activation of MT2 receptor ameliorates dendritic abnormalities in Alzheimer’s disease via C/EBPα/miR‐125b pathway
Authors: Tang Hui , Ma Mei , Wu Ying , Deng Man‐Fei , Hu Fan , Almansoub Hasan.a.m.m. , Huang He‐Zhou , Wang Ding‐Qi , Zhou Lan‐Ting , Wei Na , Man Hengye , Lu Youming , Liu Dan , Zhu Ling‐Qiang
Published: February 2019

Impairments of dendritic trees and spines have been found in many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), in which the deficits of melatonin signal pathway were reported. Melatonin receptor 2 (MT2) is widely expressed in the hippocampus and mediates the biological functions of melatonin. It is known that melatonin application is protective to dendritic abnormalities in AD. However, whether MT2 is involved in the neuroprotection and the underlying mechanisms are not clear. Here, we first found that MT2 is dramatically reduced in the dendritic compartment upon the insult of oligomer Aβ. MT2 activation prevented the Aβ‐induced disruption of dendritic complexity and spine. Importantly, activation of MT2 decreased cAMP, which in turn inactivated transcriptional factor CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α(C/EBPα) to suppress miR‐125b expression and elevate the expression of its target, GluN2A. In addition, miR‐125b mimics fully blocked the protective effects of MT2 activation on dendritic trees and spines. Finally, injection of a lentivirus containing a miR‐125b sponge into the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice effectively rescued the dendritic abnormalities and learning/memory impairments. Our data demonstrated that the cAMP‐C/EBPα/miR‐125b/GluN2A signaling pathway is important to the neuroprotective effects of MT2 activation in Aβ‐induced dendritic injuries and learning/memory disorders, providing a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of AD synaptopathy.
Comparison of the metabolomic profiles of irritable bowel syndrome patients with ulcerative colitis patients and healthy controls: new insights into pathophysiology and potential biomarkers
Authors: Keshteli Ammar Hassanzadeh , Madsen Karen L. , Mandal Rupasri , Boeckxstaens Guy E. , Bercik Premysl , De Palma Giada , Reed David E. , Wishart David , Vanner Stephen , Dieleman Levinus A.
Published: February 2019

Background

Evaluation of the metabolomic profile of patients with irritable bowel syndrome offers an opportunity to identify novel pathophysiological targets and biomarkers that could discriminate this disorder from related conditions.

Aim

To identify potential urinary biomarkers that discriminate irritable bowel syndrome patients from ulcerative colitis patients in remission and healthy controls and to explore the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome using a metabolomic approach.

Methods

Urine samples were collected from 39 irritable bowel syndrome patients, 53 ulcerative colitis patients in clinical remission and 21 healthy controls. Urinary metabolites were identified and quantified using direct infusion/liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and gas‐chromatography mass spectrometry.

Results

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome had a unique urinary metabolome that could separate them from ulcerative colitis patients with an area under the curve = 0.99 (95% confidence interval 0.95‐1.00). The most important metabolites for this separation were a group of amino acids and organic acids. In addition, subjects with irritable bowel syndrome could be discriminated from healthy controls using their metabolic fingerprints. Irritable bowel syndrome patients had lower urinary Phosphatidyl choline acyl‐alkyl C38:6, dopamine and p‐hydroxybenzoic acid than healthy controls. Levels of some urinary metabolites including histamine correlated significantly with irritable bowel syndrome symptom severity scores.

Conclusions

Irritable bowel syndrome patients have a unique urinary metabolomic profile compared to ulcerative colitis patients in clinical remission or healthy subjects. These data suggest that metabolomic profiling may provide important insights into pathophysiology and testable biomarkers to discriminate irritable bowel syndrome from other disorders that can mimic this condition and can be used to assess its severity and identify potential novel pathophysiological pathways.
The role of echocardiographic parameters in predicting survival of patients with lung diseases referred for lung transplantation
Authors: Nowak Jolanta , Hudzik Bartosz , Niedziela Jacek T. , Rozentryt Piotr , Ochman Marek , Przybyłowski Piotr , Zembala Marian , Gąsior Mariusz
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) show poor prognosis. The importance of left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular morphology and function in patients with end‐stage lung diseases referred for lung transplantation (LT) is not well established.

Objectives

To assess whether LV and RV echocardiographic parameters influence survival of patients with IPF, COPD and other interstitial lung diseases (ILD) awaiting LT.

Methods

In 65 patients (20 patients with COPD, 37 with IPF and 8 with other ILD), we performed transthoracic echocardiography and right heart catheterization. Echocardiographic parameters were assessed with regard to 1‐year all‐cause mortality.

Results

The mortality rate was higher in patients with smaller dimensions of LV end‐systolic (LVESD) and end‐diastolic (LVEDD) diameter (HR 3.03, 95% CI 1.16‐7.69, P = .023; and HR 2.9, 95% CI 1.16‐7.14, P = .022; respectively), higher RV‐to‐LV (RV/LV‐4CH) ratio (HR 7.6, 95% CI 1.6‐29.5, P = .009) and RV proximal outflow tract (RVOT‐PLAX) dilatation (HR 2.69, 95% CI 1.22‐5.96, P = .015). These associations were independent of age, gender, body mass index, VC, FEV1% and pulmonary diagnosis. The subanalysis of IPF patients demonstrated that the smaller LVESD and LVEDD increased mortality rate (HR 15.0, 95% CI 2.87‐89.72, P = .003; HR 4.95, 95% CI 1.5‐15.5, P = .006; respectively). No such associations were found in the COPD patients.

Conclusion

LV echocardiographic parameters (LVESD or LVEDD) are useful in predicting survival in patients with end‐stage lung diseases, mainly in IPF patients awaiting LT. Other parameters (RV/LV‐4CH and RVOT‐PLAX dilatation) may also influence survival.
Children and Youth with Complex Cerebral Palsy: Care and Management Edited by Laurie JGlader and Richard DStevenson. London: Mac Keith Press, 2019 £39.95 (Softback), pp 384 ISBN: 978‐1‐909962‐98‐9
Authors: Horridge Karen
Published: February 2019

Video Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbzPzwsULq0&feature=youtu.be
A pilot study of an integrated mental health, social and medical model for diabetes care in an inner‐city setting: Three Dimensions for Diabetes (3DFD)
Authors: Ismail K. , Stewart K. , Ridge K. , Britneff E. , Freudenthal R. , Stahl D. , McCrone P. , Gayle C. , Doherty A. M.
Published: February 2019

Aims

We examined the effectiveness of a service innovation, Three Dimensions for Diabetes (3DFD), that consisted of a referral to an integrated mental health, social care and diabetes treatment model, compared with usual care in improving biomedical and health economic outcomes.

Methods

Using a non‐randomized control design, the 3DFD model was offered in two inner‐city boroughs in London, UK, where diabetes health professionals could refer adult residents with diabetes, suboptimal glycaemic control [HbA1c ≥ 75 mmol/mol (≥ 9.0%)] and mental health and/or social problems. In the usual care group, there was no referral pathway and anonymized data on individuals with HbA1c ≥ 75 mmol/mol (≥ 9.0%) were collected from primary care records. Change in HbA1c from baseline to 12 months was the primary outcome, and change in healthcare costs and biomedical variables were secondary outcomes.

Results

3DFD participants had worse glycaemic control and higher healthcare costs than control participants at baseline. 3DFD participants had greater improvement in glycaemic control compared with control participants [−14 mmol/mol (−1.3%) vs. −6 mmol/mol (−0.6%) respectively, P < 0.001], adjusted for confounding. Total follow‐up healthcare costs remained higher in the 3DFD group compared with the control group (mean difference £1715, 95% confidence intervals 591 to 2811), adjusted for confounding. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was £398 per mmol/mol unit decrease in HbA1c, indicating the 3DFD intervention was more effective and costed more than usual care.

Conclusions

A biomedical, psychological and social criteria‐based referral system for identifying and managing high‐cost and high‐risk individuals with poor glycaemic control can lead to improved health in all three dimensions.
Challenges in the management of people with diabetes and cancer
Authors: Chowdhury T. A. , Jacob P.
Published: February 2019

Although micro‐ and macrovascular complications of diabetes are the most important cause of mortality and morbidity in people with diabetes, it is increasingly recognized that diabetes increases the risk of developing cancer. Diabetes and cancer commonly co‐exist, and outcomes in people with both conditions are poorer than in those who have cancer but no diabetes. There is no randomized trial evidence that treating hyperglycaemia in people with cancer improves outcomes, but therapeutic nihilism should be avoided, and a personalized approach to managing hyperglycaemia in people with cancer is needed. This review aims to outline the link between diabetes therapies and cancer, and discuss the reasons why glucose should be actively managed people with both. In addition, we discuss clinical challenges in the management of hyperglycaemia in cancer, specifically in relation to glucocorticoids, enteral feeding and end‐of‐life care.
Semaphorin 3A induces acute changes in membrane excitability in spiral ganglion neurons in vitro
Authors: Wong Victor S. C. , Meadows Marc , Goldberg David , Willis Dianna E.
Published: February 2019

The development and survival of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) are dependent on multiple trophic factors as well as membrane electrical activity. Semaphorins (Sema) constitute a family of membrane‐associated and secreted proteins that have garnered significant attention as a potential SGN “navigator” during cochlea development. Previous studies using mutant mice demonstrated that Sema3A plays a role in the SGN pathfinding. The mechanisms, however, by which Sema3A shapes SGNs firing behavior are not known. In these studies, we found that Sema3A plays a novel role in regulating SGN resting membrane potential and excitability. Using dissociated SGN from pre‐hearing (P3–P5) and post‐hearing mice (P12–P15), we recorded membrane potentials using whole‐cell patch clamp recording techniques in apical and basal SGN populations. Recombinant Sema3A was applied to examine the effects on intrinsic membrane properties and action potentials evoked by current injections. Apical and basal SGNs from newborn mice treated with recombinant Sema3A (100 ng/ml) displayed a higher resting membrane potential, higher threshold, decreased amplitude, and prolonged latency and duration of spikes. Although a similar phenomenon was observed in SGNs from post‐hearing mice, the resting membrane potential was essentially indistinguishable before and after Sema3A exposure. Sema3A‐mediated changes in membrane excitability were associated with a significant decrease in K+ and Ca2+ currents. Sema3A acts through linopirdine‐sensitive K+ channels in apical, but not in the basal SGNs. Therefore, Sema3A induces differential effects in SGN membrane excitability that are dependent on age and location, and constitutes an additional early and novel effect of Sema3A SGNs in vitro.
Wanted, dead and alive: Why a multidisciplinary approach is needed to unlock hair treatment potential
Authors: Lim Yi Shan , Harland Duane P. , Dawson Thomas L.
Published: February 2019

Human recorded history is littered with attempts to improve the perceived appearance of scalp hair. Throughout history, treatments have included both biological and chemical interventions. Hair “quality” or “perceived appearance” is regulated by multiple biological intervention opportunities: adding more hairs by flipping follicles from telogen to anagen, or delaying anagen follicles transiting into catagen; altering hair “apparent amount” by modulating shaft diameter or shape; or, in principle, altering shaft physical properties changing its synthesis. By far the most common biological intervention strategy today is to increase the number of hairs, but to date this has proven difficult and has yielded minimal benefits. Chemical intervention primarily consists of active material surface deposition to improve shaft shine, fibre‐fibre interactions and strength. Real, perceptible benefits will best be achieved by combining opportunity areas across the three primary sciences: biology, chemistry and physics. Shaft biogenesis begins with biology: proliferation in the germinative matrix, then crossing “Auber's Critical Line” and ceasing proliferation to synthesize shaft components. Biogenesis then shifts to oxidative chemistry, where previously synthesized components are organized and cross‐linked into a shaft. We herein term the crossing point from biology to chemistry as “The Orwin Threshold.” Historically, hair biology and chemistry have been conducted in different fields, with biological manipulation residing in biomedical communities and hair shaft chemistry and physics within the consumer care industry, with minimal cross‐fertilization. Detailed understanding of hair shaft biogenesis should enable identification of factors necessary for optimum hair shaft production and new intervention opportunities.
Bacteriohopanepolyols across environmental gradients in Lake Vanda, Antarctica
Authors: Matys Emily D. , Mackey Tyler , Grettenberger Christen , Mueller Elliott , Sumner Dawn Y. , Hawes Ian , Summons Roger E.
Published: February 2019

Bacteriohopanepolyols (BHPs) are bacterial membrane lipids that may be used as biological or environmental biomarkers. Previous studies have described the diversity, distribution, and abundance of BHPs in a variety of modern environments. However, the regulation of BHP production in polar settings is not well understood. Benthic microbial mats from ice‐covered lakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica provide an opportunity to investigate the sources, physiological roles, and preservation of BHPs in high‐latitude environments. Lake Vanda is one of the most stable lakes on Earth, with microbial communities occupying specific niches along environmental gradients. We describe the influence of mat morphology and local environmental conditions on the diversity and distribution of BHPs and their biological sources in benthic microbial mats from Lake Vanda. The abundance and diversity of C‐2 methylated hopanoids (2‐MeBHP) are of particular interest, given that their stable degradation products, 2‐methylhopanes, are among the oldest and most prevalent taxonomically informative biomarkers preserved in sedimentary rocks. Furthermore, the interpretation of sedimentary 2‐methylhopanes is of great interest to the geobiology community. We identify cyanobacteria as the sole source of 2‐MeBHP in benthic microbial mats from Lake Vanda and assess the hypothesis that 2‐MeBHP are regulated in response to a particular environmental variable, namely solar irradiance.
Multiscale climate change impacts on plant diversity in the Atacama Desert
Authors: Díaz Francisca P. , Latorre Claudio , Carrasco‐Puga Gabriela , Wood Jamie R. , Wilmshurst Janet M. , Soto Daniela C. , Cole Theresa L. , Gutiérrez Rodrigo A.
Published: February 2019

Comprehending ecological dynamics requires not only knowledge of modern communities but also detailed reconstructions of ecosystem history. Ancient DNA (aDNA) metabarcoding allows biodiversity responses to major climatic change to be explored at different spatial and temporal scales. We extracted aDNA preserved in fossil rodent middens to reconstruct late Quaternary vegetation dynamics in the hyperarid Atacama Desert. By comparing our paleo‐informed millennial record with contemporary observations of interannual variations in diversity, we show local plant communities behave differentially at different timescales. In the interannual (years to decades) time frame, only annual herbaceous expand and contract their distributional ranges (emerging from persistent seed banks) in response to precipitation, whereas perennials distribution appears to be extraordinarily resilient. In contrast, at longer timescales (thousands of years) many perennial species were displaced up to 1,000 m downslope during pluvial events. Given ongoing and future natural and anthropogenically induced climate change, our results not only provide baselines for vegetation in the Atacama Desert, but also help to inform how these and other high mountain plant communities may respond to fluctuations of climate in the future.
Minimal intervention dentistry for partially dentate older adults
Authors: Allen Patrick Finbarr , Da Mata Cristiane , Hayes Martina
Published: February 2019

Background

Chronic dental and oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal disease, continue to be a significant health problem among older adults. Given the rapidly changing profile of the ageing population, and their complex health needs, there is a need to develop new evidence‐based approaches to oral health care. Recently, care philosophies have been developed that take a minimally invasive, functionally oriented, approach to oral health care with a focus on providing a reduced, but healthy, natural dentition which can be maintained with support of better oral hygiene.

Method

A review of the literature concerning use of minimal intervention dentistry (MID) to manage caries and toothloss in partially dentate older adults was undertaken.

Results

A variety of chemotherapeutic agents are available to prevent development of root caries and/or arrest root caries lesions, with professionally applied solutions (ie 22 500 NaF, 38% SDF or 40% CHX) every 3 to 6 months demonstrating best outcomes. Application of 38% SDF annually in high‐risk, institutionalised older adults is effective in arresting root caries. Atraumatic restorative treatment can be used successfully to manage active carious lesions and limit the removal of natural tooth tissue. Finally, functionally oriented treatment planning to manage partial toothloss is successful in terms of quality of life impact and cost‐effectiveness.

Conclusion

Available evidence is somewhat limited and more long‐term studies are need. However, currently available evidence suggests that minimal intervention dentistry can be predictable and cost‐effective in older adults.
How is Endodontics taught? A survey to evaluate undergraduate endodontic teaching in dental schools within the United Kingdom
Authors: Al Raisi H. , Dummer P. M. H. , Vianna M. E.
Published: February 2019

Aim

To evaluate the delivery of undergraduate endodontic education in UK dental schools using an online survey and to compare the results with those of a previous paper‐based survey (Qualtrough & Dummer 1997, Int Endod J, 30, 234). Aspects of delivery were also evaluated in comparison with the Undergraduate Curriculum Guidelines of the European Society of Endodontology (de Moor et al. 2013, Int Endod J, 46, 1105).

Methodology

An online version of an earlier paper‐based survey on undergraduate Endodontic education (Qualtrough & Dummer 1997, Int Endod J, 30, 234) was created. Invitations to take part were sent via email to the undergraduate endodontic programme leads in the 16 UK dental schools.

Results

The response rate was 94%. The current survey revealed greater convergence amongst dental schools than previously (Qualtrough & Dummer 1997, Int Endod J, 30, 234) on methods of canal preparation, disinfection and filling. Improvements were also noted in staff: student ratios, the involvement of teachers with advanced endodontic training and a greater diversity of teaching methods; developments which align with the recommendations of ESE Undergraduate Curriculum Guidelines (de Moor et al. 2013, Int Endod J, 46, 1105). The majority of schools appeared to be teaching contemporary instrumentation methods and were recommending the application of calcium silicate cements. The exposure of students to advanced topics included in the ESE Undergraduate Curriculum Guidelines (de Moor et al. 2013, Int Endod J, 46, 1105) such as surgical endodontic treatment, root canal re‐treatment and the management of complex cases was mixed.

Conclusion

Undergraduate endodontic training in the UK has advanced in the last 20 years with more consistency between schools and more contemporary methods adopted.
“As Needed” nonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants for infrequent atrial fibrillation episodes following atrial fibrillation ablation guided by diligent pulse monitoring: A feasibility study
Authors: Zado Erica S. , Pammer Monica , Parham Tara , Lin David , Frankel David S. , Dixit Sanjay , Marchlinski Francis E.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

After atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, oral anticoagulation (OAC) is recommended if stroke risk as assessed by CHA2DS
2‐VASc score is high. However, patients without AF are often reluctant to take daily OAC. We describe outcome using as needed nonvitamin K antagonist (NOACs) guided by pulse monitoring to detect AF following successful ablation.

Methods and Results

We identified 99 patients (84% male, age 64 ± 8 years), CHA2DS
2‐VASc score greater than or equal to 1 in men and greater than or equal to 2 in women (median 2, range 1‐6), capable of pulse assessment twice daily and no AF on extended monitoring after AF ablation. All patients were instructed to start NOAC if AF >1 hour or recurrent shorter episodes. Duration of NOAC use after restart was typically 2 to 4 weeks.

After 30 ± 14 months (total 244 patient‐years), 22 patients (22%) transitioned to daily NOAC because of noncompliance with pulse assessment or patient preference (six patients) or because of suspected or documented AF episode(s) in 16 (16%) patients. Of the remaining 77 (78%), 14 (14%) used NOACs but did not transition back to daily use, most (10 patients) with single use (seven patients) or non‐AF rhythm (three patients) documented. There was only one thromboembolic event (0.4%/yr of follow‐up) in patient without AF and one mild bleeding event (epistaxis).

Conclusion

The use of as needed NOACs when AF is suspected with pulse monitoring is effective and safe to maintain low risk of stroke and bleeding after successful ablation. Transition back to daily NOAC use should be anticipated in about one quarter of patients.
Landscape for Mourning – Adaptive Reuse of a Rural Church and its Surroundings as an urn Cemetery
Authors: Plevoets Bie , Vande Keere Nikolaas , Van Cleempoel Koenraad
Published: February 2019

This paper elaborates on the design of a place for mourning as a new use for an abandoned church building and its surroundings. Rather than replacing Christian worship with a secular program, the project aims to reactivate and strengthen the historical presence of spirituality by adding new layers to the design of this historic church. Using the singularity of the place and the quality of its rural landscape as catalysts, the proposed design seeks to place death and the act of mourning within a broader and renewed spiritual experience by borrowing and associating concepts related to rituals from different cultures and times. Besides a columbarium and a funeral space, the site may be used as a place for the celebration of life and its memory or simply as a meaningful place to meet with family or friends. The church, for which an adaptive reuse proposal is discussed in this paper, is one of many in Flanders that, in recent years, has lost its religious function as the result of the secularization of society. The presented project is part of a research program initiated by the Flemish Government that aims to conduct feasibility studies for the transformation of parish churches using research–by–design as a methodology.
Population genetics of the collector urchin, Tripneustes gratilla, in the Indonesian archipelago
Authors: Wainwright Benjamin J. , Arlyza Irma S. , Karl Stephen A.
Published: February 2019

The population genetics of the economically important collector urchin, Tripneustes gratilla, were examined in 353 individuals collected from 16 sampling sites throughout Indonesia at 12 microsatellite loci. Bayesian clustering methods over all sampling locations revealed evidence of two genetically distinct clusters, one located predominantly on the shallow Sunda Shelf and the second in the deep waters associated with the biogeographic region known as Wallacea; further analysis revealed additional genetic structure around the island of Halmahera and the Islands of Nias and Mentawai. We propose that the observed genetic differentiation is the result of habitat loss during periods of glacial maxima and differences in physical oceanographic properties throughout the Archipelago. The subsequent recolonization of this habitat as glaciers retreat and sea levels return to present‐day levels creates an unparalleled opportunity for colonists to exploit new habitat. The documentation of cryptic diversity will aid in the identification of hot spots of biodiversity and ultimately its conservation. These data indicate that genetic structure can be detected in a species that has a relatively high dispersal potential, and this differentiation is a potential source of evolutionary novelty.
High efficiency Agrobacterium‐mediated site‐specific gene integration in maize utilizing the FLP‐FRT recombination system
Authors: Anand Ajith , Wu Emily , Li Zhi , TeRonde Sue , Arling Maren , Lenderts Brian , Mutti Jasdeep S. , Gordon‐Kamm William , Jones Todd J. , Chilcoat Nicholas Doane
Published: February 2019

An efficient Agrobacterium‐mediated site‐specific integration (SSI) technology using the flipase/flipase recognition target (FLP/FRT) system in elite maize inbred lines is described. The system allows precise integration of a single copy of a donor DNA flanked by heterologous FRT sites into a predefined recombinant target line (RTL) containing the corresponding heterologous FRT sites. A promoter‐trap system consisting of a pre‐integrated promoter followed by an FRT site enables efficient selection of events. The efficiency of this system is dependent on several factors including Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain, expression of morphogenic genes Babyboom (Bbm) and Wuschel2 (Wus2) and choice of heterologous FRT pairs. Of the Agrobacterium strains tested, strain AGL1 resulted in higher transformation frequency than strain LBA4404 THY‐ (0.27% vs. 0.05%; per cent of infected embryos producing events). The addition of morphogenic genes increased transformation frequency (2.65% in AGL1; 0.65% in LBA4404 THY‐). Following further optimization, including the choice of FRT pairs, a method was developed that achieved 19%–22.5% transformation frequency. Importantly, >50% of T0 transformants contain the desired full‐length site‐specific insertion. The frequencies reported here establish a new benchmark for generating targeted quality events compatible with commercial product development.
Anger and Authoritarianism Mediate the Effects of Fear on Support for the Far Right—What Vasilopoulos et al. (2019) Really Found
Authors: Jost John T.
Published: February 2019

In an important study of popular support for the National Front following the November 13, 2015 terrorist attacks in France, Vasilopoulos, Marcus, Valentino, and Foucault (2019) argue that (1) anger—rather than fear—explains support for the Far Right and (2) the effect of fear on support for the Far Right is negative, rather than positive, as previous work (including my own) would suggest. However, these conclusions are based on statistical models that adjust for anger (but no other emotional variables) when investigating the effects of fear, and the results indicate the presence of a suppression effect. Following a collegial exchange with the authors, I share evidence (which they provided) that (1) the effect of fear on support for the Far Right is in fact positive and significant (rather than negative) and (2) anger and authoritarianism both mediate the effect of fear on support for the Far Right. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Artefactual inflation of type 2 diabetes prevalence in WHO STEP surveys
Authors: Lin Sophia , Rocha Vitor Moraes , Taylor Richard
Published: February 2019

Objectives

In view of erroneous type 2 diabetes prevalence reported in 3 small Pacific Island countries, a study was conducted to investigate whether this error occurred in other countries which have conducted WHO STEPS surveys associated with glucose thresholds for point‐of‐care (POC) measuring devices calibrated to plasma.

Methods

Published STEPS surveys conducted over 2001–2017 were obtained. For each survey, information was obtained on diabetes prevalence, POC glucose measuring device, blood sample tested and the fasting glucose threshold used for prevalence calculations. POC device user manuals were obtained to determine calibration. The current WHO glucose threshold for type 2 diabetes was used: ≥7.0 mmol/l for plasma glucose; ≥6.1 mmol/l for whole blood glucose.

Results

POC devices were used in 75 of the STEPS surveys identified to measure blood glucose. An incorrect glucose threshold was employed in 17 surveys (23%) to define diabetes. The correct threshold was applied in 20 surveys (27%). Estimates from meta‐analysis and meta‐regression show that diabetes prevalence in surveys using the incorrect glucose thresholds have prevalences 50% higher than surveys which use the correct glucose threshold. A definite conclusion could not be made for 38 surveys (51%) because of the absence or unclear information on the glucose metre and/or the threshold employed.

Conclusion

WHO STEPS surveys with likely incorrect published diabetes prevalences have been conducted across the globe, resulting in a 50% artefactual inflation. Inaccurate reporting of diabetes prevalence from widely cited STEPS surveys would have significant impacts on disease burden monitoring, policy development and resource allocation.
A tale of two networks: Market formation on the Cambodia–Vietnam frontier
Authors: Mahanty Sango
Published: February 2019

Although South‐East Asia's trading networks have existed for millennia, recent decades have seen markets dramatically intensify in the region's frontiers, bringing social and environmental upheaval. Within political ecology, such transitions are framed as frontier incorporation into global capitalism – a process that has been ongoing since European colonisation. This paper, however, responds to recent calls for commodity network studies to better account for specific material and social variances in “actually existing capitalism.” My analysis focuses on Mondulkiri province in north‐eastern Cambodia, where a boom in cassava cultivation has produced two distinct commodity networks. The first network supplies dried cassava chips to trans‐border markets that serve bioethanol and livestock production. The second network supplies fresh cassava to Vietnamese starch and processed food factories. In order to understand why two market networks have evolved from one crop, I analyse the social, material and spatial relationships in each network. Comparative analysis shows that both networks involve land and labour commodification and respond to global demand. Yet subtle geographical variations in transport networks, migration patterns and the availability of uncleared land, support dried cassava production in some areas and fresh cassava in others. The cassava case shows that although frontier markets are propelled by globally connected processes of commodification, they ultimately take form through co‐productive networks that mould to and shape frontier landscapes. Furthermore, market networks are not only mobilised, but also can be demobilised by environmental, economic and social pressures – a point that frontier incorporation perspectives may overlook. The paper therefore argues for an understanding of frontier geographies as dynamic and constitutive in market formation.
Visual outcome following phacoemulsification in English Cocker Spaniels with suspected progressive retinal atrophy: A retrospective multicenter study of 54 cases (2002‐2017)
Authors: Koll-Hampp Sarah , Enache Andra‐Elena , Fenollosa‐Romero Elena , Chang Yu‐Mei , Busse Claudia , Oliver James , Dawson Charlotte , Matas Riera Màrian
Published: February 2019

Objective

To describe the visual outcome following phacoemulsification in English Cocker Spaniels (ECS) affected by cataracts and suspected progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

Animals studied

Fifty‐four client‐owned dogs.

Procedures

A multicenter, retrospective study was performed including ECS with suspected PRA which underwent phacoemulsification. PRA was suspected on ophthalmic examination before and after surgery, and/or after electroretinography (ERG) was performed. Visual outcome was assessed by menace response per eye at seven time periods post‐surgery (P1= 25‐90 days, P2 = 91‐180 days, P3 = 181‐364 days, P4 = 365‐549 days, P5 = 550‐729 days, P6 = 730‐1094 days, and P7 ≥ 1095 days). Descriptive statistics were performed. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify predictors associated with vision after surgery. Odds ratio and confidence intervals were reported. Significance was set at P < 0.05. Owners were invited to participate in a questionnaire.

Results

Phacoemulsification was performed in 85 eyes. Median age at surgery was 9.09 years (min. 2.17 years, max. 13.49 years). At all re‐examinations, up to and including P5, significantly more eyes were visual than before surgery (P ≤ 0.003). Odds for vision were significantly increased for eyes that underwent surgery. Electroretinograms were performed in 75/85 eyes that underwent surgery, demonstrating low b‐wave amplitudes. There was no significant effect of the age, gender, vision before surgery, presence of dazzle reflex, cataract stage or abnormality on gonioscopy on visual outcome. The questionnaire response rate was 48.2%. Most participants (92.5%) felt that cataract surgery led to improvement of the dog's quality of life.

Conclusions

English Cocker Spaniels with suspected PRA may benefit from phacoemulsification with vision up to 2 years following surgery.
Liver‐specific Sirtuin6 ablation impairs liver regeneration after 2/3 partial hepatectomy
Authors: Liu Qinhui , Pu Shiyun , Chen Lei , Shen Jing , Cheng Shihai , Kuang Jiangying , Li Hong , Wu Tong , Li Rui , Jiang Wei , Zou Min , Zhang Zhiyong , Li Yanping , Li Jian , He Jinhan
Published: February 2019

Sirtuin 6 (Sirt6) is an NAD+‐dependent deacetylase that regulates central metabolic functions such as glucose homeostasis, fat metabolism, and cell apoptosis. However, the tissue‐specific function of Sirt6 in liver regeneration remains unknown. Here, we show that liver‐specific Sirt6 knockout (Sirt6LKO) impaired liver reconstitution after 2/3 partial hepatectomy, which was attributed to an alteration of cell cycle progression. Sirt6 LKO delayed hepatocyte transition into S phase during liver regeneration, as shown by the analysis of cell cycle‐related proteins and the immuno staining of Ki‐67 and 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine (BrdU). The delayed cell cycle in Sirt6 LKO mice was attributed to the disruption of m‐TOR and Akt activity, which is an important pro‐proliferation pathway in liver regeneration. Sirt6 LKO also reduced carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced liver damage. Our results suggest that Sirt6 LKO impaired liver regeneration via delayed cell cycle and impaired m‐TOR and Akt activity.
On stable high order difference schemes for hyperbolic problems with the Neumann boundary conditions
Authors: Yildirim Ozgur
Published: February 2019

In this paper, third and fourth order of accuracy stable difference schemes for approximately solving multipoint nonlocal boundary value problems for hyperbolic equations with the Neumann boundary conditions are considered. Stability estimates for the solutions of these difference schemes are presented. Finite difference method is used to obtain numerical solutions. Numerical results of errors and CPU times are presented and are analyzed.
CMOS compatible metal stacks for suppression of secondary grains in Sc0.125Al0.875N
Authors: Esteves Giovanni , Berg Morgann , Wrasman Kyle D. , David Henry Michael , Griffin Benjamin A. , Douglas Erica A.
Published: February 2019

The electromechanical response of AlN can be enhanced by alloying with Sc up to ∼44%, with challenges arising in deposition of high Sc-content films due to the presence of secondary grains. While templating ScxAl1−xN (ScAlN) from platinum has shown success in yielding highly-textured c-axis ScAlN without the presence of secondary grains, platinum is not compatible with complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) electronics. In this work, Sc0.125Al0.875N and AlN films were deposited on various CMOS compatible metal stacks, i.e., combinations of Ti, TiN, and AlCu (0.5 wt. %). Optimal film microstructure and texture was obtained for films deposited on highly-textured Ti, Ti/AlCu, and Ti/TiN/AlCu metal stacks. The lowest FWHM values for AlN and Sc0.125Al0.875N were 0.81° and 1.09°, respectively, for 750-nm-thick films deposited on Ti/TiN/AlCu. Secondary grains and film roughness were examined using atomic force microscopy and found to be significantly reduced in ScAlN films deposited on Ti, Ti/AlCu, and Ti/TiN/AlCu. The success of these bottom metal stacks is attributed to their lattice matching and texture quality, which can enable the deposition of higher Sc-alloyed films that outperform their AlN counterpart. Additionally, the CMOS compatibility of these metal stacks brings ScAlN one step closer to commercialization.
Ancient Earth rock found on the moon
Authors: Lovett Richard A.
Published: February 2019

Four-billion-year-old fragment found in an Apollo sample could be as old as any on Earth.
Shutdown ends, but not worry
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey , Malakoff David
Published: February 2019

Science agencies dig out amid fears of yet another closure.
Invasion of the glowing sea pickles
Authors: Cornwall Warren
Published: February 2019

Scientists rush to understand impact of tropical species arriving in Pacific Northwest.
The quest for superheavies
Authors: Kean Sam
Published: February 2019

After stalling for nearly a decade, the hunt for new elements is set to resume this spring at a storied Russian lab.
A sea change in our view of overturning in the subpolar North Atlantic
Authors: Lozier M. S. , Li F. , Bacon S. , Bahr F. , Bower A. S. , Cunningham S. A. , de Jong M. F. , de Steur L. , deYoung B. , Fischer J. , Gary S. F. , Greenan B. J. W. , Holliday N. P. , Houk A. , Houpert L. , Inall M. E. , Johns W. E. , Johnson H. L. , Johnson C. , Karstensen J. , Koman G. , Le Bras I. A. , Lin X. , Mackay N. , Marshall D. P. , Mercier H. , Oltmanns M. , Pickart R. S. , Ramsey A. L. , Rayner D. , Straneo F. , Thierry V. , Torres D. J. , Williams R. G. , Wilson C. , Yang J. , Yashayaev I. , Zhao J.
Published: February 2019

An array of overturning data

The Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) has a strong influence on climate, so it is important to understand how global warming may affect it. Lozier
et al.
report initial results from the Overturning in the Subpolar North Atlantic Program (OSNAP) (see the Perspective by Rhein). OSNAP has been measuring the flux of water transported by overturning in the high latitudes in the North Atlantic. The measurements reveal the strong variability of transport in the region and show that deep water formation in the Labrador Sea may not, as previously believed, be the major determinant of AMOC variability.

Science
, this issue p.
516
; see also p.
456