bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salmonella typhimurium PtsJ is a novel MocR‐like transcriptional repressor involved in regulating the vitamin B6 salvage pathway
Authors: Tramonti Angela , Milano Teresa , Nardella Caterina , di Salvo Martino L. , Pascarella Stefano , Contestabile Roberto
Published: December 2016

The vitamin B6 salvage pathway, involving pyridoxine 5′‐phosphate oxidase (PNPOx) and pyridoxal kinase (PLK), recycles B6 vitamers from nutrients and protein turnover to produce pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP), the catalytically active form of the vitamin. Regulation of this pathway, widespread in living organisms including humans and many bacteria, is very important to vitamin B6 homeostasis but poorly understood. Although some information is available on the enzymatic regulation of PNPOx and PLK, little is known on their regulation at the transcriptional level. In the present work, we identified a new MocR‐like regulator, PtsJ from Salmonella typhimurium, which controls the expression of the pdxK gene encoding one of the two PLKs expressed in this organism (PLK1). Analysis of pdxK expression in a ptsJ knockout strain demonstrated that PtsJ acts as a transcriptional repressor. This is the first case of a MocR‐like regulator acting as repressor of its target gene. Expression and purification of PtsJ allowed a detailed characterisation of its effector and DNA‐binding properties. PLP is the only B6 vitamer acting as effector molecule for PtsJ. A DNA‐binding region composed of four repeated nucleotide sequences is responsible for binding of PtsJ to its target promoter. Analysis of binding stoichiometry revealed that protein subunits/DNA molar ratio varies from 4 : 1 to 2 : 1, depending on the presence or absence of PLP. Structural characteristics of DNA transcriptional factor‐binding sites suggest that PtsJ binds DNA according to a different model with respect to other characterised members of the MocR subgroup.
On the Relative Performance of Investment‐Grade Corporate Bonds with Differing Maturities
Authors: DeCosta Darrin , Leng Fei , Noronha Gregory
Published: December 2016

We find that short‐maturity investment‐grade corporate bonds perform better, controlling for risk differences, than similar bonds with longer maturities. Our results are at least partially attributable to insurance companies’ trading behavior and align with the preferred‐habitat theory of the term structure. We find that insurance‐company purchases create a strong demand for long‐term bonds and that their rebalancing activity results in sales of short‐term bonds. As documented by extant literature, such demand‐supply imbalance is not easily resolved by arbitrageurs or firms seeking to time the market with bond issuance.
Warming and provenance limit tree recruitment across and beyond the elevation range of subalpine forest
Authors: Kueppers Lara M. , Conlisk Erin , Castanha Cristina , Moyes Andrew B. , Germino Matthew J. , de Valpine Perry , Torn Margaret S. , Mitton Jeffry B.
Published: December 2016

Climate niche models project that subalpine forest ranges will extend upslope with climate warming. These projections assume that the climate suitable for adult trees will be adequate for forest regeneration, ignoring climate requirements for seedling recruitment, a potential demographic bottleneck. Moreover, local genetic adaptation is expected to facilitate range expansion, with tree populations at the upper forest edge providing the seed best adapted to the alpine. Here, we test these expectations using a novel combination of common gardens, seeded with two widely distributed subalpine conifers, and climate manipulations replicated at three elevations. Infrared heaters raised temperatures in heated plots, but raised temperatures more in the forest than at or above treeline because strong winds at high elevation reduced heating efficiency. Watering increased season‐average soil moisture similarly across sites. Contrary to expectations, warming reduced Engelmann spruce recruitment at and above treeline, as well as in the forest. Warming reduced limber pine first‐year recruitment in the forest, but had no net effect on fourth‐year recruitment at any site. Watering during the snow‐free season alleviated some negative effects of warming, indicating that warming exacerbated water limitations. Contrary to expectations of local adaptation, low‐elevation seeds of both species initially recruited more strongly than high‐elevation seeds across the elevation gradient, although the low‐provenance advantage diminished by the fourth year for Engelmann spruce, likely due to small sample sizes. High‐ and low‐elevation provenances responded similarly to warming across sites for Engelmann spruce, but differently for limber pine. In the context of increasing tree mortality, lower recruitment at all elevations with warming, combined with lower quality, high‐provenance seed being most available for colonizing the alpine, portends range contraction for Engelmann spruce. The lower sensitivity of limber pine to warming indicates a potential for this species to become more important in subalpine forest communities in the coming centuries.
Can the agricultural AquaCrop model simulate water use and yield of a poplar short‐rotation coppice?
Authors: Horemans Joanna A. , Van Gaelen Hanne , Raes Dirk , Zenone Terenzio , Ceulemans Reinhart
Published: December 2016

We calibrated and evaluated the agricultural model AquaCrop for the simulation of water use and yield of a short‐rotation coppice (SRC) plantation with poplar (Populus) in East Flanders (Belgium) during the second and the third rotation (first 2 years only). Differences in crop development and growth during the course of the rotations were taken into account during the model calibration. Overall, the AquaCrop model showed good performance for the daily simulation of soil water content (R2 of 0.57–0.85), of green canopy cover (R2 > 0.87), of evapotranspiration (ET; R2 > 0.76), and of potential yield. The simulated, total yearly water use of the SRC ranged between 55% and 85% of the water use of a reference grass ecosystem calculated under the same environmental conditions. Crop transpiration was between 67% and 93% of total ET, with lower percentages in the first than in the second year of each rotation. The observed (dry mass) yield ranged from 6.61 to 14.76 Mg ha−1 yr−1. A yield gap of around 30% was observed between the second and the third rotation, as well as between simulated and observed yield during the third rotation. This could possibly be explained by the expansion of the understory (weed) layer; the relative cover of understory weeds was 22% in the third year of the third rotation. The agricultural AquaCrop model simulated total water use and potential yield of the operational SRC in a reliable way. As the plantation was extensively managed, potential effects of irrigation and/or fertilization on ET and on yield were not considered in this study.
A new graphical format to communicate treatment effects to patients—A web‐based randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kasper Jürgen , van de Roemer Adrian , Pöttgen Jana , Rahn Anne , Backhus Imke , Bay Yasemin , Köpke Sascha , Heesen Christoph
Published: December 2016

Objective

Patients making treatment decisions require understandable evidence‐based information. However, evidence on graphical presentation of benefits and side‐effects of medical treatments is not conclusive. The study evaluated a new space‐saving format, CLARIFIG (clarifying risk figures), aiming to facilitate accuracy of comprehension.

Methods

CLARIFIG displays groups of patients with and without treatment benefits as coloured sectors of a proportional bar graph representing in total 100 patients. Supplementary icons indicate the corresponding group's actual condition. The study used an application showing effects of immunotherapy intended to slow disease progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). In a four‐arm web‐based randomized controlled trial, CLARIFIG was compared to the reference standard, multifigure pictographs (MFP), regarding comprehension (primary outcome) and processing time. Both formats were presented as static and animated versions. People with MS were recruited through the website of the German MS society.

Results

Six hundred and eighty‐two patients were randomized and analysed for the primary end point. There were no differences in comprehension rates (MFPstatic=46%, CLARIFIGstatic=44%; P=.59; MFPanimated=23%, CLARIFIGanimated=30%; P=.134). Processing time for CLARIFIG was shorter only in the animated version (MFPstatic=162 seconds, CLARIFIGstatic=155 seconds; P=.653; MFPanimated=286 seconds, CLARIFIGanimated=189 seconds; P≤.001). However, both animated versions caused more wrong answers and longer processing time than static presentation (MFPstatic vs animated: P≤.001/.001, CLARIFIGstatic vs animated: P=.027/.017).

Conclusion

Comprehension of the new format is comparable to MFP. CLARIFIG has the potential to simplify presentation in more complex contexts such as comparison of several treatment options in patient decision aids, but further studies are needed.
The utility of ETV1, ETV4 and ETV5 RNA in‐situ hybridization in the diagnosis of CIC–DUX sarcomas
Authors: Smith Steven C , Palanisamy Nallasivam , Martin Elizabeth , Almenara Jorge , McHugh Jonathan B , Choi Eun‐Young K , Lucas David R , Betz Bryan L , Thomas Dafydd , Patel Rajiv M
Published: December 2016

Aims

A recently characterized group of undifferentiated small round cell sarcomas harbours fusions of the genes CIC and DUX4. Studies report a distinctive gene expression profile for these sarcomas, including expression of E26 transformation‐specific (ETS) family proto‐oncogenic transcription factors ETV1, ETV4 and ETV5. To test the utility of an ancillary diagnostic technique for these tumours, we evaluated chromogenic RNA in‐situ hybridization assays for ETV1, ETV4 and ETV5 as diagnostic adjuncts for this emerging group of highly malignant sarcomas.

Methods and results

We tested six confirmed CIC–DUX4 sarcomas and 105 lesions in the differential, including 48 Ewing sarcomas for expression of ETV1, ETV4 and ETV5, scoring expression utilizing a previously validated scale. ETV1 and ETV4 were positive in five of six cases, while ETV5 was positive in six of six. No Ewing sarcoma or other sarcoma tested showed coexpression of these transcripts, while one ETV1/ETV4/ETV5 triple positive previously unclassified round cell sarcoma was identified as harbouring a CIC rearrangement by break‐apart fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH).

Conclusion

We identified overexpression of ETV1, ETV4 and ETV5 transcripts in situ in CIC–DUX4 sarcomas using a robust assay in routine archival sections. One previously unclassified round cell sarcoma showed ETV1/4/5 positivity, and was proved to harbour a CIC rearrangement by break‐apart FISH. The sensitivity and specificity observed with our in‐situ hybridization assay implies potential utility as an ancillary diagnostic technique, particularly when faced with limited biopsy samples.
PHENOMENOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY IN FOUCAULT'S “INTRODUCTION TO BINSWANGER'S DREAM AND EXISTENCE“: A MIRROR IMAGE OF THE ORDER OF THINGS?
Authors: HAN‐PILE BÉATRICE
Published: December 2016

In this article, I examine the relation between phenomenology and anthropology by placing Foucault's first published piece, “Introduction to Binswanger's Dream and Existence“ in dialectical tension with The Order of Things. I argue that the early work, which so far hasn't received much critical attention, is of particular interest because, whereas OT is notoriously critical of anthropological confusions in general, and of “Man” as an empirico‐transcendental double in particular, IB views “existential anthropology” as a unique opportunity to establish a new and fruitful relation between transcendental forms and empirical contents. This is because IB focuses on a specific object, “Menschsein” (the “being of man”), which is neither the transcendental subject nor an empirical being (a member of the class Homo sapiens). Thus for the young Foucault, existential anthropology occupies a fertile methodological middle ground between transcendental approaches (exemplified in IB by Heideggerian phenomenology) and empirical forms of analysis (exemplified by Freudian psychoanalysis). I first interpret anthropology in the light of phenomenology and defend the view that Menschsein is neither a transcendental structure nor a concrete particular, but the instantiation of the first in the second. I argue that for anthropology to yield the full theoretical benefits Foucault claims for it, the particular cases of Menschsein examined in existential analysis have to be regarded as exemplary. I then read phenomenology back in the light of anthropology and examine how, for Foucault, the analysis of Menschsein in dreams benefits fundamental ontology by affording us a clearer view of some of the main existentiale than the focus on everyday waking experience in Being and Time. Finally, I turn to the limits and difficulties of this early position and my reading of it, and to their consequences for Foucault's later view.
VANISHING POINT: LES MOTS ET LES CHOSES, HISTORY, AND DIAGNOSIS
Authors: MONOD JEAN‐CLAUDE
Published: December 2016

A difficult point in The Order of Things lies in the historical situation of the archaeologist himself, especially when he speaks about the present. Is it possible to have an adequate view of the episteme in which you stand? Is not the very concept of episteme that of an unconscious determination of the space of knowledge, so that it would be an illusion to claim to be able to “objectify” one's own epistemological situation? And from what point of view can a part of this situation be considered “backward”? This article tries to show that the idea of the “death of man” can be read on two levels: first, it is possible to reconstruct the argument of an appearance and disappearance of man in the space of knowledge from the seventeenth century to the twentieth century; but then, one has to discuss the way Foucault combined his history of knowledge with a philosophical polemics against some contemporary figures. And we can wonder if Foucault's diagnosis has lost any relevance for the present.
THE ORDER OF THINGS: AN ARCHAEOLOGY OF WHAT?
Authors: DESCOMBES VINCENT
Published: December 2016

Foucault's Les mots et les choses has been translated as The Order of Things. The title of the book, both in French and in English, would remain enigmatic without the subtitle: An Archaeology of the Human Sciences. But which disciplines are the human sciences to be accounted for by the archaeologist? To this question, there seem to be three possible answers. According to Foucault, such sciences as biology, political economy, and linguistics are indeed scientific disciplines that study human beings, but they are not human sciences. On the other hand, psychology and sociology do count as human sciences, although they are not really genuine sciences. As to structural disciplines (Lacanian psychoanalysis, Lévi‐Straussian anthropology, structural linguistics), Foucault does not see them as successful human sciences, since he calls them “counter‐human sciences.” In other words, the situation of the human sciences seems to be messy from the point of view of a philosopher defending the possibility of radical reflection against psychologism and more generally anthropologism.

Foucault rejects Merleau‐Ponty's claim to have found a way out of anthropologism through the so‐called phenomenological reduction. One can read Foucault's archaeology of the human sciences as an attempt to offer an alternative way for radical thinking. His archaeology turns out to be an archaeology of ourselves insofar as it applies to archaeologists themselves, whatever knowledge they have gained of their object, the discontinuous “systems of thought” succeeding one another in history.

The success of such an archaeology of ourselves will rest on the interpretation of what Foucault has rightly called the “return of language” at the center of our intellectual concerns.
OUT OF THEIR DEPTHS: “MORAL KINDS” AND THE INTERPRETATION OF EVIDENCE IN FOUCAULT'S MODERN EPISTEME
Authors: STARK LAURA
Published: December 2016

Michel Foucault's The Order of Things is uniquely relevant to historians because it is about the contradictions of writing history in the present day, and because it makes claims absent from other books often seen as similar, such as Thomas Kuhn's The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. For Order, the present‐day modern episteme is characterized by unconscious elements that connect Man through time. These unconscious elements are only vaguely discernible to himself and are deformed in the process of representation, that is, by putting experience into words. At the same time, history‐writing presumes to pull these unconscious elements out of the depths of human experience, time, and space. These assumptions create contradictions for historians in the present day and warrant particular interpretations of evidence that override alternative plausible interpretations. The inescapable contradictions of writing history in the modern episteme are most apparent in histories of what philosopher Ian Hacking calls “moral kinds,” as shown by an extended analysis of a recent history article on medical experimentation on prisoners. The overarching aim of this essay is to identify stronger, weaker, and usefully plausible interpretations of historical evidence—and, inspired by Foucault, to extend the imaginative possibilities for writing history.
MicroRNA‐155 is a biomarker of T‐cell activation and immune dysfunction in HIV‐1‐infected patients
Authors: Jin C , Cheng L , Höxtermann S , Xie T , Lu X , Wu H , Skaletz‐Rorowski A , Brockmeyer NH , Wu N
Published: December 2016

Objectives

MicroRNA‐155 (miR‐155) regulates T‐cell differentiation and activation. It has also been associated with HIV infection. However, it remains unclear whether miR‐155 is related to the T‐cell response in HIV‐infected individuals (e.g. T‐cell activation and exhaustion).

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study involving 121 HIV‐1‐infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and 43 HAART‐naïve patients. MiR‐155 levels in the peripheral blood were determined by quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (PCR). T‐cell immune activation, exhaustion, and homeostasis were measured by determining the expression of CD38, programmed death 1 (PD‐1) and CD127 via flow cytometry.

Results

The levels of miR‐155 in total peripheral blood mononuclear cells, CD4 T cells and CD8 T cells from HIV‐1‐infected patients were increased (P < 0.01). Nonresponders and HAART‐naïve patients also exhibited a higher percentage of CD8+CD38+ T cells and a lower percentage of CD4+CD127+ and CD8+CD127+ T cells (P < 0.05). We also found higher levels of PD‐1 expression on the CD4+ and CD8+ T cells of HIV‐1‐infected patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that miR‐155 levels in the peripheral blood of HIV‐1‐infected patients are increased and associated with T‐cell activation. Therefore, miR‐155 is a potential biomarker of the immune response following HIV‐1 infection.
CBCT uses in clinical endodontics: the effect of CBCT on the ability to locate MB2 canals in maxillary molars
Authors: Parker J. , Mol A. , Rivera E. M. , Tawil P.
Published: December 2016

Aim

To determine whether a CBCT volume can aid in the location of MB2 canals in maxillary molars.

Methodology

This prospective clinical study involved 50 patients that needed RCT on a maxillary molar. The teeth where the MB2 was located upon access with the dental operating microscope received routine root canal treatment, and teeth where MB2 was not located had a CBCT volume made after instrumenting the located canals. At the second appointment, the clinician used the aid of the CBCT volume and troughing to attempt to locate MB2.

Results

The clinicians located MB2 upon initial access in 70% (n = 35) of teeth. In the remaining 15 teeth, CBCT and troughing located MB2 53% of the time in that group (8/15 teeth). Overall, MB2 was located in 86% of the 50 first and second maxillary molars (maxillary first molars 90% and maxillary second molars 73%). A total of 15 CBCT volumes were made, and of these teeth, 33% of MB2 canals (5/15 teeth) were visualized on the CBCT volume.

Conclusions

This prospective clinical study showed that the effectiveness of using CBCT to locate additional MB2 canals in maxillary molars appears limited. The use of the dental operating microscope in conjunction with selective troughing and CBCT imaging allowed clinicians to locate 90% (maxillary first molars) and 73% (maxillary second molars) of MB2 canals.
Effect of MTA particle size on periapical healing
Authors: Torabinejad M. , Moazzami S. M. , Moaddel H. , Hawkins J. , Gustefson C. , Faras H. , Wright K. , Shabahang S.
Published: December 2016

Aim

To examine the effect of reduction in MTA particle size on dento‐alveolar and osseous healing in dogs.

Methodology

Root canals of 24 mandibular premolars in four 2‐year‐old beagles were prepared and filled with gutta‐percha and sealer. Two to four weeks later, during periapical surgery, the root‐end cavity preparations in these teeth were filled with either grey ProRoot MTA or modified (reduced particle sizes with faster setting time) MTA. The animals were sacrificed 4 months later. Degrees of inflammation, type of inflammatory cells, fibrous connective tissue adjacent to the root‐end filling materials, cementum formation over the resected roots and root‐end filling materials and bone healing were examined. Data were analysed using the McNemar test.

Results

No significant differences in healing of periapical tissues were found when comparing ProRoot MTA to a modified MTA containing reduced particle sizes.

Conclusion

Reducing the particle sizes of MTA did not impact its biological properties.
Effect of different storage media on root dentine composition and viability of fibroblasts evaluated by several assay methods
Authors: Reis M. V. P. , Souza G. L. , Moura C. C. G. , Soares P. B. F. , Soares C. J.
Published: December 2016

Aim

To perform multiparametric analysis of the effects of soya milk (SM), whole milk (WM) and Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) on the viability of fibroblasts (HGF). The study also aimed to evaluate the influence of these solutions on bovine root dentine according to OH− and on the surface.

Methodology

The HGF cytotoxicity was determined according to XTT, NR and SRB assays at 1, 3 and 6 h. Root dentine fragments were assessed by Fourier infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer before and after immersion in the solutions for the same periods. The positive control group included cells and tooth fragments maintained in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM), and the negative control included tooth fragments that were kept dry. Data were analysed using anova and Tukey's test.

Results

No significant difference was found in cell viability evaluated by XTT (P > 0.05). Using the NR assay, WM and HBSS had significantly lower cell viability compared to the positive control group at 6 h (P < 0.05). SM had similar cell viability to the positive control group at all periods evaluated when assessed using all three tests (P > 0.05). A significant difference was found in values of OH− for the negative control group at 1 h (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Soya milk promoted better cell viability, whereas on dentine composition, the solutions behaved similarly. The association of different assay methods is promising for improving cell viability analysis. The 1‐h time‐point is a crucial factor in the prognosis of dental replantation because the teeth remain more hydrated and help maintain cell viability.
Effect of lipopolysaccharide stimulation on stem cell‐associated marker‐expressing cells
Authors: Sueyama Y. , Kaneko T. , Ito T. , Okiji T.
Published: December 2016

Aim

To examine the effect of inflammatory stimuli on the proliferation/migration of dental pulp stem cells by assessing the responses of stem cell‐associated marker‐expressing cells in rat incisors to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in vivo.

Methodology

The crowns of rat incisors were removed, and the coronal pulp chamber was instrumented. After haemostasis, an absorbent point soaked in LPS was inserted into the cavity, which was then sealed. At 3, 12, and 48 h after LPS application, pulp tissues were subjected to double‐immunoperoxidase labelling using two of the antibodies against microtubule‐associated protein 1B (MAP1B), CD146 and STRO‐1. For gene expression analysis, total RNA was extracted, and mRNA expression levels of stem cell factor (SCF), stromal‐derived factor 1 (SDF‐1), CD146 and MAP1B were analysed with real‐time polymerase chain reaction. SCF and SDF‐1 protein levels were also assessed by Western blot. Statistical analysis was performed by Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric analysis of variance, followed by Mann–Whitney U‐tests with Bonferroni correction.

Results

The density of MAP1B+CD146+ cells and STRO‐1+CD146+ cells in LPS‐stimulated pulp tissue increased significantly at 3 h and exhibited a four‐ to sixfold increase at 48 h as compared with the density observed in normal pulp tissue (P < 0.05). The expression of CD146 mRNA in LPS‐stimulated pulp showed significant upregulation at 3 h as compared with that observed in normal pulp tissue (P < 0.05). MAP1B, SCF and SDF‐1 mRNA levels also showed significant upregulation at 3 and 72 h (P < 0.05), and Western blot analysis revealed increases in SCF and SDF‐1 following LPS stimulation.

Conclusions

LPS‐stimulated pulp tissue exhibited upregulation of stem cell differentiation/migration markers and showed increases in the number of MAP1B+CD146+ and STRO‐1+CD146 stem‐like cells.
Compositional‐driven multiferroic properties in samarium substituted LaFeO3‐PbTiO3 solid solutions
Authors: Sharma Vandana , Singh Anupinder , Singh Lakhwant , Singh Mandeep , Mishra Sanjay Kumar
Published: December 2016

Samarium‐substituted LaFeO3‐PbTiO3 solid solutions Pb1−xLax/2Smx/2Ti1−xFexO3 were synthesized within the solid solubility limit 0.10≤x≤0.30. The structural analysis reveals the phase transition from tetragonal to cubic with the variation in composition. Refined lattice and structural parameters vary gradually with composition, and the structural data correlate very well with the microstructural, Raman, and dielectric data. Magnetic ordering in the solid solutions continuously increases with the increase in Fe content. Electric polarization hysteresis loops reveal enhancement in remnant polarization with addition of La/Sm.
Pressure‐less joining of C/SiC and SiC/SiC by a MoSi2/Si composite
Authors: Gianchandani Pardeep Kumar , Casalegno Valentina , Smeacetto Federico , Ferraris Monica
Published: December 2016

A MoSi2/Si composite obtained in situ by reaction of silicon and molybdenum at 1450°C in Ar flow is proposed as pressure‐less joining material for C/SiC and SiC/SiC composites. A new “Mo‐wrap” technique was developed to form the joining material and to control silicon infiltration in porous composites. MoSi2/Si composite joining material infiltration inside coated and uncoated C/SiC and SiC/SiC composites, as well as its microstructure and interfacial reactions were studied. Preliminary mechanical strength of joints was tested at room temperature and after aging at service temperatures, resulting in interlaminar failure of the composites in most cases.
Robocasting of silicon nitride with controllable shape and architecture for biomedical applications
Authors: Zhao Santuan , Xiao Wei , Rahaman Mohamed N. , O'Brien David , Seitz‐Sampson Jacob W. , Sonny Bal B.
Published: December 2016

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) implants are used in spinal fusion surgery and are under development for use in other biomedical applications. The ability to create Si3N4implants with anatomically relevant shapes and controllable architecture can be beneficial in these applications. In the present study, an aqueous paste composed of Si3N4powder and sintering additives was prepared with the requisite rheology and formed into structures with different geometry and architecture using a robocasting technique. Sintering and hot isostatic pressing produced an almost fully dense Si3N4phase (density=3.23±0.01 g/cm3) with a fibrous microstructure. Four‐point bending tests of as‐fabricated dense beams showed a flexural strength of 552±68 MPa. Together, these results indicate that robocasting combined with sintering and hot isostatic pressing can provide a viable manufacturing approach to create Si3N4implants with controllable shape and architecture for applications in orthopedic and dental surgery.
In situ shrinkage measurement during pressure‐assisted sintering of low temperature co‐fired ceramic panels
Authors: Mieller Bjoern , Rabe Torsten , Rangelov Ventzeslav
Published: December 2016

Shrinkage measurements of miniaturized low temperature co‐fired ceramics (LTCC) samples under load typically lead to collapsing of the samples, which hampers the characterization of shrinkage up to full densification. In this paper, a measurement setup is presented, which allows for in situ shrinkage measurements of practical, large LTCC panels during pressure‐assisted sintering in a sintering press. The shrinkage behavior of two commercial LTCC systems (GreenTape 951 and Ceramtape GC) has been measured under loads of up to 1 MPa. No crushing of the specimens was observed and reproducible characterization of shrinkage up to full densification has been performed. Based on comparisons to thermomechanical analyzer measurements in this and other studies, it was found that the in situ approach is much better suited for shrinkage characterization of LTCC under load. Reproducibility and accuracy of the method are discussed and practical as well as more academic applications are proposed.
Effects of chitosan and zirconia on setting time, mechanical strength, and bioactivity of calcium silicate‐based cement
Authors: Kamali Ali , Javadpour Sirus , Javid Bahar , Kianvash Rad Niloofar , Naddaf Dezfuli Sina
Published: December 2016

In this research, we aimed at improving the setting properties and biocompatibility of the mineral trioxide aggregate‐like cements while maintaining the main chemical formula. Consequently, chitosan and zirconium oxide were added to the cement instead of bismuth oxide to improve the mechanical behavior, limit the possible toxicity, and enhance the bioactivity of the cements. Adding zirconia resulted in a shorter setting time and adding chitosan contributed to the setting time, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility at the same time. Thus, cements containing both chitosan and zirconia had the shortest setting time, highest compressive strength, and apatite‐forming ability.
A novel flow cytometry‐based method of analyzing Heinz bodies
Authors: Palasuwan D. , Palasuwan A. , Charoensappakit A. , Noulsri E.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Heinz bodies are important to diagnosing and managing patients. However, microscopic examination of Heinz bodies has several disadvantages, demonstrating the need for a better method. We explored the potential use of flow cytometry to examine Heinz bodies.

Methods

Whole‐blood samples were collected from patients deficient in G6PD and healthy volunteers. Acetylphenylhydrazine was used to induce formation of Heinz bodies in red blood cells (RBCs). Then, RBCs positive for Heinz bodies were examined using a FACSCanto II cytometer.

Results

RBCs treated with acetylphenylhydrazine formed Heinz bodies and emitted a broad spectrum of fluorescence that could be detected by flow cytometry. The maximum emission of fluorescence was observed at 45 min after the incubation with acetylphenylhydrazine. In addition, the fluorescence emitted was stable for at least 72 h. The flow cytometer could detect the RBCs positive for Heinz bodies even if they made up as little as 0.1% of the total RBC population. Furthermore, the percentage and number, respectively, of RBCs positive for Heinz bodies in G6PD‐deficient patients and normal donors exhibited a mean ± standard deviation (SD) of 68.9 ± 27.5 vs. 50.9 ± 28.6 and 96 014 ±35 732 cells/μL vs. 74 688 ± 36 514 cells/μL.

Conclusion

Heinz bodies induced by acetylphenylhydrazine emit fluorescence, and this fluorescence could be examined using flow cytometry. Our study suggests the potential use of the developed method to investigate the formation of Heinz bodies in clinical samples.
Effects of the Thai Health Improvement Profile intervention on the physical health and health behaviours of people with schizophrenia: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Meepring Soontareeporn , Chien Wai Tong , Gray Richard , Bressington Daniel
Published: December 2016

Physical health problems and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours are common in people with severe mental illness (SMI), leading to high levels of mortality.There is some evidence that nurse‐led interventions involving comprehensive health checks may be effective in improving physical health in people with SMI. This quasi‐experimental before‐and‐after study investigated the impacts of the Thai Health Improvement Profile (HIP‐T) on the physical health and health behaviours of people with schizophrenia over 1‐year. All 105 service‐users who volunteered to participate completed the study. There were significant reductions in mean BMI (−0.78 kg/m2, P < .001) and bodyweight (−1.13 kg, P < .001) at post‐test. There was also a significant decrease in the total number of “red‐flagged” HIP‐T items, suggesting lowered potential health risks (P < .001). Overall, 23 patients (22%) were found to have moved to a healthier BMI classification after 1‐year. The findings suggest that the HIP‐T intervention has potential for improving the physical health of people with SMI when integrated into routine community mental health care.
Effectiveness of a mobile cooperation intervention during the clinical practicum of nursing students: a parallel group randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Strandell‐Laine Camilla , Saarikoski Mikko , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Salminen Leena , Suomi Reima , Leino‐Kilpi Helena
Published: December 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe a study protocol for a study evaluating the effectiveness of a mobile cooperation intervention to improve students’ competence level, self‐efficacy in clinical performance and satisfaction with the clinical learning environment.

Background

Nursing student–nurse teacher cooperation during the clinical practicum has a vital role in promoting the learning of students. Despite an increasing interest in using mobile technologies to improve the clinical practicum of students, there is limited robust evidence regarding their effectiveness.

Design

A multicentre, parallel group, randomized, controlled, pragmatic, superiority trial.

Methods

Second‐year pre‐registration nursing students who are beginning a clinical practicum will be recruited from one university of applied sciences. Eligible students will be randomly allocated to either a control group (engaging in standard cooperation) or an intervention group (engaging in mobile cooperation) for the 5‐week the clinical practicum. The complex mobile cooperation intervention comprises of a mobile application‐assisted, nursing student–nurse teacher cooperation and a training in the functions of the mobile application. The primary outcome is competence. The secondary outcomes include self‐efficacy in clinical performance and satisfaction with the clinical learning environment. Moreover, a process evaluation will be undertaken. The ethical approval for this study was obtained in December 2014 and the study received funding in 2015.

Discussion

The results of this study will provide robust evidence on mobile cooperation during the clinical practicum, a research topic that has not been consistently studied to date.
Ecological opportunity, historical biogeography and diversification in a major lineage of salamanders
Authors: Wray Kenneth P. , Steppan Scott J.
Published: December 2016

Aim

Spelerpini is a major radiation in the Plethodontidae, the largest family of salamanders. Seventy‐five percent of its species richness occurs inEurycea, one of its six genera. We hypothesized that this was the result of the transgression of the Western Interior Seaway that provided ecological opportunity via ancestral range expansion into novel geographical regions, leading to an adaptive radiation.

Location

Eastern North America.

Methods

We sampled all but one species and two subspecies of extant Spelerpini, including several putative species, for four genes using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches to generate a comprehensive, robust phylogeny. We used five fossil calibrations to generate a chronogram, a likelihood framework to estimate the ancestral ranges/splits of all nodes on the phylogeny, and a Bayesian inference method to estimate diversification rate shifts putting the evolution of this group into a historical biogeographical context.

Results

A well‐resolved, strongly supported phylogeny of the Spelerpini was recovered.Euryceais among the oldest genera within the Spelerpini, originatingc. 42 Ma with an ancestor occurring in four of five physiographical regions, each corresponding to a majorEurycealineage. There is strong support for a rate shift in the Edwards Plateau neotenicEurycea.

Main conclusions

A pattern of niche lability was found in the Spelerpini, as opposed to a pattern of niche conservatism found in other major radiations of plethodontids in eastern North America. The genusEuryceadispersed widely into novel regions experiencing ecological opportunity as the Western Interior Seaway transgressed. This represents the first fossil calibrated and the most thoroughly sampled phylogeny of the group to date.
Secular trends in blood pressure in children: A systematic review
Authors: Roulet Céline , Bovet Pascal , Brauchli Thomas , Simeoni Umberto , Xi Bo , Santschi Valérie , Paradis Gilles , Chiolero Arnaud
Published: December 2016

Blood pressure (BP) is expected to have increased over time in children in most countries due to the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity worldwide. The authors conducted a systematic review of studies assessing secular trends in BP in children and adolescents. Of 1739 citations screened, the authors identified 18 studies including 2 042 470 participants examined between 1963 and 2012. Thirteen studies were conducted in high‐income countries, five in middle‐income countries, and none in low‐income countries. The prevalence of overweight or obesity increased in 17 studies and decreased in one study. BP decreased over time in 13 studies, increased in four, and did not change in one. These findings suggest that secular trends in BP do not mirror secular trends in overweight. This implies that other factors mitigate the effect of overweight on BP in children and adolescents.
Effects of EMD liquid (Osteogain) on periodontal healing in class III furcation defects in monkeys
Authors: Shirakata Yoshinori , Miron Richard J. , Nakamura Toshiaki , Sena Kotaro , Shinohara Yukiya , Horai Naoto , Bosshardt Dieter D. , Noguchi Kazuyuki , Sculean Anton
Published: December 2016

Aim

To evaluate the effect of a novel liquid carrier system of enamel matrix derivative (Osteogain) soaked on an absorbable collagen sponge (ACS) upon periodontal wound healing/regeneration in furcation defects in monkeys.

Materials and Methods

The stability of the conventional enamel matrix derivative (Emdogain) and Osteogain adsorbed onto ACS was evaluated by ELISA. Chronic class III furcation defects were created at teeth 36, 37, 46, 47 in three monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). The 12 defects were assigned to one of the following treatments: (1) open flap debridement (OFD) + ACS, (2) OFD+Emdogain/ACS, (3) OFD+Osteogain/ACS, and (4) OFD alone. At 16 weeks following reconstructive surgery, the animals were killed for histological evaluation.

Results

A 20–60% significantly higher amount of total adsorbed amelogenin was found for ACS‐loaded Osteogain when compared to Emdogain. The histomorphometric analysis revealed that both approaches (OFD + Emdogain/ACS and OFD + Osteogain/ACS) resulted in higher amounts of connective tissue attachment and bone formation compared to treatment with OFD + ACS and OFD alone. Furthermore, OFD + Osteogain/ACS group showed higher new attachment formation, cementum, and new bone area.

Conclusions

Within their limits, the present data indicate that Osteogain possesses favourable physicochemical properties facilitating adsorption of amelogenin on ACS and may additionally enhance periodontal wound healing/regeneration when compared to Emdogain.
Clinical and radiographic intra‐subject comparison of implants placed with or without guided bone regeneration: 15‐year results
Authors: Benic Goran I. , Bernasconi Mira , Jung Ronald E. , Hämmerle Christoph H. F.
Published: December 2016

Aim

To test whether implants placed with simultaneous guided bone regeneration (GBR) differ from implants placed withoutGBRregarding survival rate, interproximal marginal bone level (MBL), and dimensions of buccal bone and mucosa.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐three patients treated 15 years earlier were included. Machined implants had been inserted following one of the two procedures: (i) with simultaneousGBR, which involved grafting with particulate deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM), autogenous bone (AB), or a mixture of the two and defect covering with a native collagen membrane (CM) (GBR group) and (ii) standard implant placement withoutGBR(control group). OneGBRand one control implant in each patient were selected for analysis. At 15 years, the dimensions of buccal bone and mucosa were measured with cone beam computed tomography. The interproximalMBLwas evaluated at 5 and 15 years on periapical radiographs.

Results

The 15‐year survival rate amounted to 95.6% forGBRimplants and to 94.1% for control implants. At 15 years, interproximalMBLmeasured 1.44 ± 0.84 mm for theGBRgroup and 1.69 ± 0.84 mm for the control group. From the 5‐ to the 15‐year examination, the loss of interproximalMBLreached 0.23 ± 0.70 mm for theGBRgroup and 0.28 ± 0.63 mm for the control group. At 15 years, buccalMBLmeasured 1.98 ± 0.98 mm forGBRimplants and 2.19 ± 1.29 mm for control implants. None of these values reached statistical significant differences between the groups. In cases in whichGBRinvolved grafting withDBBM,GBRimplants achieved approximately 0.3–0.4 mm higher mean values in buccal bone dimensions and mucosal level in comparison to control implants. In contrast, whenGBRwas performed by grafting withABwithoutDBBM, implants rendered less favourable results in buccal bone and mucosa dimensions than the control implants.

Conclusions

Implants placed with simultaneousGBRusing particulateDBBMand/orABin combination withCMdid not significantly differ from implants completely placed into pristine bone with respect to 15‐year implant survival, interproximal bone levels, and dimensions of buccal bone and mucosa. The machined‐surface implants placed both into native bone and sites augmented byGBRexhibited stable interproximal bone levels.
Commentary: ‘Unhealthy diet,’ nutrient status, and ADHD symptoms: a confounding role for environmental nitrous oxide exposure – reflections on Rijlaarsdam et al. (2016)
Authors: Fluegge Keith
Published: December 2016

Rijlaarsdam et al. (2016) recently published their findings utilizing a longitudinal design showing that prenatal ‘unhealthy diet’ was positively associated with IGF2 DNA methylation at birth across both youth cohorts. However, only in the EOP youth was prenatal ‘unhealthy diet’ positively associated with ADHD symptoms presumably through IGF2 DNA hypermethylation. Rijlaarsdam et al.'s () choice to assess high fat and sugar diet with the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) may offer some indication as to prenatal nutrient status, as the foods identified by the FFQ in their study are relatively low in free choline. It has been shown that gestational choline deficiency in rats leads to hypermethylation of IGF2. Consistent with the literature describing an association between air pollution and cognitive neurodevelopmental impairment, the author of this commentary has previously proposed through empirical investigation that chronic environmental exposure to the trace levels of the pervasive air pollutant, nitrous oxide (N2O), may facilitate core features of neurodevelopmental disorders, like ADHD. Impaired acetylcholine synthesis in rats exposed to N2O has been shown, with a 53% reduction in [1‐2H2,2‐2H2] choline. Low‐dose N2O exposure is also thought to stimulate central release of opioid peptides, like dynorphin, which play a role in significantly increasing food intake behavior and/or modulating sucrose intake. Taken altogether, these studies present a strong confounder to the interpretation made by Rijlaarsdam et al. () that prenatal ‘unhealthy diet’ may play a role in the onset of ADHD symptoms in youth with EOP conduct problems through induction of IGF2 DNA hypermethylation. While the ‘unhealthy diet’ may represent possible maternal nutrient deficiencies during gestation, it is also possible that exposure to air pollutants, particularly N2O, may not only directly reduce fetal cholinergic status thereby enhancing IGF2 DNA hypermethylation but may also significantly modulate maternal food intake behaviors (i.e. sucrose).
Editorial: Science unskewed – acknowledging and reducing ‘risk of bias’ in parenting research
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund
Published: December 2016

There is a growing awareness that ‘risk of bias’ distorts the process of generating and interpreting evidence and threatens the validity of psychological and psychiatric research at a number of different levels (Rutter & Pickles, ). Such threats are likely to be greatest in fields of study focused on socially/politically contentious issues where beliefs and values are strongly held – especially where there is a lack of methodological rigour.
Telangiectasia of the face: risk factors for reappearance in patients treated with dye laser
Authors: Guida S. , Galimberti M.G. , Bencini M. , Pellacani G. , Bencini P.L.
Published: December 2016

Background

Lasers can be successfully used in the treatment of facial telangiectasias. Nevertheless, reappearance of telangiectasias after successful laser treatment is a significant problem. Risk factors involved in the reappearance have not been previously investigated.

Objective

To evaluate whether personal, clinical and behavioural factors can influence the recurrence or new appearance of telangiectasias after treatment.

Methods

Four hundred and fifteen women and 69 men obtaining complete clearance after laser treatment were included in the study and the role of different risk factors in the reappearance of telangiectasias was analysed. Immunocompromised patients were excluded. A statistical analysis was then performed.

Results

Twenty four percent of women and 14.5% of men enrolled showed a persistent clearance after treatment. In women in whom telangiectasias reappeared, logistic regression highlighted the importance of tanning addiction, aesthetic medicine and surgery procedures as risk factors, while therapy for menopause was found to be a protective factor. Hypertension was found to be a risk factor in men.

Conclusions

The efficacy of laser for treatment of telangiectasias of the face has been previously proven. Nevertheless, this is the first study presenting an analysis of risk factors involved in the new appearance of telangiectasias after the clearance induced by therapy.