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Abstract Many studies have shown that infectious diseases are responsible for the majority of deaths in children under five. Among these children, Acute Respiratory Infections is the most prevalent illness and cause of death worldwide. Acute respiratory infections continue to be the leading cause of death in developing countries, including Ethiopia. In order to predict the main factors contributing to acute respiratory infections in the Amhara regional state of Ethiopia, a machine learning technique was employed. This study utilized data from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. Seven machine learning models, including logistic regression, random forests, decision trees, Gradient Boosting, support vector machines, Naïve Bayes, and K-nearest neighbors, were employed to forecast the factors influencing acute respiratory infections. The accuracy of each model was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves and various metrics. Among the seven models used, the Random Forest algorithm demonstrated the highest accuracy in predicting acute respiratory infections, with an accuracy rate of 90.35% and Area under the Curve of 94.80%. This was followed by the Decision Tree model with an accuracy rate of 88.69%, K-nearest neighbors with 86.35%, and Gradient Boosting with 82.69%. The Random Forest algorithm also exhibited positive and negative predictive values of 92.22% and 88.83%, respectively. Several factors were identified as significantly associated with ARI among children under five in the Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. These factors, included families with a poorer wealth status (log odds of 0.18) compared to their counterparts, families with four to six children (log odds of 0.1) compared to families with fewer than three living children, children without a history of diarrhea (log odds of -0.08), mothers who had occupation(log odds of 0.06) compared mothers who didn’t have occupation, children under six months of age (log odds of -0.05) compared to children older than six months, mothers with no education (log odds of 0.04) compared to mothers with primary education or higher, rural residents (log odds of 0.03) compared to non-rural residents, families using wood as a cooking material (log odds of 0.03) compared to those using electricity. Through Shapley Additive exPlanations value analysis on the Random Forest algorithm, we have identified significant risk factors for acute respiratory infections among children in the Amhara regional state of Ethiopia. The study found that the family’s wealth index, the number of children in the household, the mother’s occupation, the mother’s educational level, the type of residence, and the fuel type used for cooking were all associated with acute respiratory infections. Additionally, the research emphasized the importance of children being free from diarrhea and living in households with fewer children as essential factors for improving children’s health outcomes in the Amhara regional state, Ethiopia.

Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide are known for their neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative disorders, but their role in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the effects of liraglutide on several biological processes, including inflammation, antioxidant defense mechanisms, mitochondrial dynamics, and function, as well as cognitive and behavioral changes in the TLE model. Methods: Low-dose, repeated intraperitoneal injections of lithium chloride–pilocarpine hydrochloride were used to induce status epilepticus (SE) in order to develop TLE in rats. Fifty-six male Sprague Dawley rats were subjected and allocated to the groups. The effects of liraglutide on inflammatory markers (NLRP3, Caspase-1, and IL-1β), antioxidant pathways (Nrf-2 and p-Nrf-2), and mitochondrial dynamics proteins (Pink1, Mfn2, and Drp1) were evaluated in hippocampal tissues via a Western blot. Mitochondrial function in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was examined using flow cytometry. Cognitive-behavioral outcomes were assessed using the open-field, elevated plus maze, and Morris water maze tests. Results: Our results showed that liraglutide modulates NLRP3-mediated inflammation, reduces oxidative stress, and triggers antioxidative pathways through Nrf2 in SE-induced rats. Moreover, liraglutide treatment restored Pink1, Mfn2, and Drp1 levels in SE-induced rats. Liraglutide treatment also altered the mitochondrial function of PBMCs in both healthy and epileptic rats. This suggests that treatment can modulate mitochondrial dynamics and functions in the brain and periphery. Furthermore, in the behavioral aspect, liraglutide reversed the movement-enhancing effect of epilepsy. Conclusions: This research underscores the potential of GLP-1RAs as a possibly promising therapeutic strategy for TLE.

The process of employing modern technology in a consistent manner is what the researcher is interested in, and the psychological role of the sound effect in enhancing psychopathic representations in cinematic characters, which had a wide resonance in the field of cinematic films, and after the predominance of digital technology in the production of contemporary films, the sound effect has a higher efficiency And a good level of advanced aesthetic and dramatic expression in film employment, so many directors resorted to this type of films by using various new and advanced techniques and technological programs in their industry, since the traditional construction does not achieve the dazzling that the viewer desires. Accordingly, the researcher found that it is necessary to shed light on this topic due to its importance and research in it, so a title was chosen for it (the role of the sound effect to represent the psychopathic personality in the cinema), to include the methodological framework, defining the problem, its importance and the need for it, and defining the terms (sound effect, personality Psychopathy), and the theoretical framework included the first topic (the sound effect’s significance and concept),the second topic (the psychological dimension of the psychopathic personality in the cinema), and the third topic (the psychopathic personality from the sound semantics in the cinema), after that the researcher came out with a set of indicators that he adopted as tools for analyzing the sample And the framework concluded with previous studies. The analytical descriptive approach took its approach, and an intentional sample that meets the research objectives, the American movie (Schizophrenia SPILT), directed by M. Night Shyamalan, produced in 2016, and the researcher relied on the indicators provided for the theoretical framework to analyze the sample, and took the scene as a main analysis unit in the research, and it was produced the study a number of results and conclusions, then conclude the research with a list of sources and appendices

تعد الأكاسيد ركيزة أساس في الثورة التكنولوجية من الإلكترونيات إلى النانو، لهذا فقد لقيت عناية خاصة من قبل الباحثين في كيمياء المواد بسبب العدد الكبير من هذه المركبات التي تلعب دوراً هاماً في الصناعات ، كما أنها عائلات واسعة تتنوع خصائصها الفيزيائية من الناقلية الفائقة، والمغناطيسية. ومن بين هذه العائلات نجد عائلة Perovskites .هذه المركبات عبارة عن أكاسيد معدنية تملك الصيغة ABO3 ، وهي تشمل العديد من المركبات التي تملك خواص ملفتة للانتباه ذات الأهمية الكبيرة في الالكترونيات الدقيقة والاتصالات السلكية واللاسلكية ، وتعد المركبات المشتقة من البنية البيروفسكيتيّة (بنية طبقية) التي تسمى بسلسلة رادلسدين وبوبير المكون الأساسي لخلايا الأكاسيد الصلبة إذ تم في هذه الدراسة اصطناع أكاسيد جديدة تنتمي لسلسلة رادلسدين وبوبير((An+1 Bn O3n+1، حضرت باستخدام الطريقتين، الطريقة السيراميكية وطريقة السول- جل. وتم دراسة تأثير الاستبدال الجزئي للكوبالت في الشبكة البلورية بالعنصر الانتقالي الكروم بنسب إشابة مختلفة.وأظهرت نتائج حيود الأشعة السينية بأن الأكاسيد المحضرة تتبلور وفق البنية البلوريةTetragonal ضمن النظام الفراغيI4/mmm عندn=1 وانخفاض ثوابت الشبكة a وb وازدياد c وبالتالي زيادة حجم وحدة الخلية .

Cet article a été rétracté le 12/04/2022. La fièvre aphteuse (FA) est une maladie infectieuse d’origine virale qui affecte les ruminants et les porcins. Une enquête séroépidémiologique a été menée chez les ruminants de la région ouest de l’Algérie afin d’estimer la séroprévalence de la FA et de déterminer les facteurs de risque susceptibles de favoriser l’atteinte des animaux par cette pathologie. Au total 420 sérums ont été collectés (210 de bovins et 210 de petits ruminants) et soumis au test Elisa NSP permettant la détection des anticorps dirigés contre le virus de la FA induits par les protéines non structurales, puis à des tests Elisa détectant les protéines structurales spécifiques des sérotypes A, O, SAT 1, SAT 2 et Asia 1. Les résultats ont montré une différence non significative (p > 0,05) de la séroprévalence entre les espèces avec 23,8 % chez les bovins et 27,1 % chez les petits ruminants. Le sérotype O était présent dans 95,3 % des sérums positifs. Il était présent seul chez 64,9 % des petits ruminants alors que les bovins étaient généralement infectés par plusieurs sérotypes simultanément, avec l’association prédominante des quatre sérotypes A, O, SAT 1 et Asia 1, qui représentait 36 % des infections. Le taux de couverture vaccinale a atteint 48,7 % du cheptel (bovins et petits ruminants) âgé de plus de six mois. Aucun lien statistique n’a été mis en évidence entre le mode d’élevage (extensif, semi-intensif ou intensif) et l’atteinte par la FA (p > 0,05). En revanche, une association significative (p < 0,05) a été établie entre la vaccination des animaux et l’infection, les animaux vaccinés ayant été moins infectés par la FA.

يزداد البحث عن امكانية وجود أكاسيد تمتلك خصائص مميزة من الناقلية الفائقة ، الناقلية الأيونية, والعديد من الخصائص العازلة ذات الأهمية الكبيرة في الالكترونيات الدقيقة والاتصالات السلكية واللاسلكية ، ويعد أحد أهم تلك الأكاسيد أكاسيد البيروفسكيت والمركبات المشتقة من البنية البيروفسكيتيّة (بنية طبقية) والتي تسمى بسلسلة رادلسدين وبوبير Popper Ruddlesden and التي تعد المكون الأساسي لخلايا الأكاسيد الصلبة إذ تم اصطناع أكاسيد جديدة تنتمي لسلسلة رادلسدين وبوبير((An+1 Bn O3n+1، حضرت باستخدام الطريقتين، الطريقة السيراميكية وطريقة السول- جل فلاش. وتم دراسة تأثير الاستبدال الجزئي للكوبالت في الشبكة البلورية بالعنصر الانتقالي النحاس وفي الوقت نفسه دراسة الاستبدال الجزئي للسترونسيوم بعنصر الجادولينيوم (أحد عناصر الأتربة النادرة). وأظهرت نتائج حيود الأشعة السينية بأن الأكاسيد المحضرة تتبلور وفق البنية البلوريةTetragonal ضمن النظام الفراغيI4/mmm عندn=1 وانخفاض ثوابت الشبكة a وb وازدياد c وبالتالي زيادة حجم وحدة الخلية وذلك عند الاستبدال الجزئي للكوبالت بالنحاس والسترونسيوم بالجادولينيوم إذ تستقر ذرات الأكسجين في المواقع الشاغرة عند الانتقال من درجة الأكسدة الثنائية للسترونسيوم الى الثلاثية للجادولينيوم.

The wastewater reuse is an important measure to face water shortage, thus improving the resilience of agricultural production chains. However, treated wastewater can contain residual organic micropollutants residues that may result in crop contamination. Among edible crops, olive is the most important agricultural product in the Mediterranean region. Methods to assess the contamination of organic micropollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in olives are poorly investigated. Given the complexity of olives, this study focused on the development and validation of a method for the simultaneous extraction of PAHs and PCBs from olives, and subsequent analysis by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry detection. Extraction was optimized through a QuEChERS protocol, studying the effect of the extraction solvent (CH2Cl2, cyclohexane, CH3CN) and of the dispersive-solid phase extraction (d-SPE) sorbent (octadecyl silica, Florisil, primary secondary amine, Z-Sep) on the recovery of micropollutants. The best recoveries (94–122%, relative standard deviations below 5%) were obtained using CH3CN/H2O and a double purification step with Z-Sep and Florisil. The method developed for PAHs and PCBs, which showed good intra-day (

Over the past few decades, superconducting circuits have been used to realize various novel electronic devices such as quantum bits, SQUIDs, parametric amplifiers, etc. One domain, however, where superconducting circuits fall short is information storage. Superconducting memories are based on the quantization of magnetic flux in superconducting loops. Standard implementations store information as magnetic flux quanta in a superconducting loop interrupted by two Josephson junctions (i.e., a SQUID). However, due to the large inductance required, the size of the SQUID loop cannot be scaled below several micrometers, resulting in low-density memory chips. Here, we propose a scalable memory consisting of a voltage-biased superconducting ring threaded by a half-quantum flux bias. By numerically solving the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equations, we show that applying a time-dependent bias voltage in the microwave range constitutes a writing mechanism to change the number of stored flux quanta within the ring. Since the proposed device does not require a large loop inductance, it can be scaled down, enabling a high-density memory technology.

During two successive years (2013–2014), we studied the breeding ecology of the European Blackbird Turdus merula in Guelma province, north-east of Algeria. The study was carried out in orange orchards of the region. We investigated nest placement in the orange trees and determined the factors of reproductive failure at this study area. Nests were placed at low height (mean ± SD = 1.42 ± 0.04 m) and located near the trunk (mean ± SD = 0.61 ± 0.04 m). The breeding season occurred between mid-May and mid-June and the peak of egg laying took place during the first half of May. The mean clutch size was 2.96 ± 0.05, density of breeding pairs was 0.83 ± 0.30 p/ha. The breeding success reported in the present study was higher than that recorded in other studies. Predation was the leading cause of nest failure of the population under investigation. The present study shows that the orange orchards appear to be the preferred breeding area for Blackbird population.

Background: Down syndrome (DS) is the most common type of chromosomal trisomy found in newborn. It is associated with mental retardation and characteristic facial features. A clinical diagnosis of DS may be unconfirmed in one-third of cases. Objective: This study was conducted to confirm the clinical diagnosis of suspected cases with DS by a cytogenetic analysis and to evaluate several risk factors associated with trisomy 21 in a group of patients from West region of Algeria, Tlemcen. Materials and Methods: Karyotype analysis was carried out for 22 patients with the clinical diagnosis of DS. GTG-band and RTG-band have been made according to the standard protocols. Results: Among the 22 cases with DS, free trisomy 21 was presented in 20 cases (91%). One case (4.5%) had translocation DS. One other case had mosaic DS. There was an excess of male than female; sex ratio was 1.75:1. The mean maternal age at birth of the affected children was 36.27 ± 7.59 years. It was significantly higher than this of mothers of nontrisomic children (27.83 ± 6.34 years; P = 0.0002). Higher parity was an important risk factor associated with trisomy 21, 81% of affected children were of last or second last birth order. Paternal age and consanguinity had no effect. Conclusion: The identification of specific types of chromosomal abnormalities in DS children is very significant. It greatly helped in the management of these children and to make aware the affected families about the recurrence risk and the options available.

Demand for drinking domestic water is continuously increasing specially in urban centres which experience high demographic expansion. The decrease of water losses in water supply networks can help preserve such a rare resource. Low number of water meters and intermittent supply make it difficult to quantify the leaking volumes of water. This article presents an analysis of the consumption for drinking water based on an extrapolation from a sample of consumers on whom data are available. Comparison of the volumes of water produced allows a determination of the losses in the water supply system. This analysis is completed by measurements of night flows. The results obtained may be relied on for an evaluation of the needs for drinking water in the South of Algeria, and for future regional development. The study indicates a high rate of water losses in the distribution network, reaching about 40%, and over-consumption due to an insufficient number of water meters and discontinuous supply. It is recommended that water meters come into general use and defective parts of the network are rehabilitated. We will try then to make the necessary recommendations in order to better functioning of the water supply systems in Algeria.

The effect of molecular vibrations on the tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) of a magnetic tunnel junction with a single spin-anisotropic molecule interconnecting its electrodes is investigated theoretically. We demonstrate that if these vibrations couple at the same time to the charge of tunneling electrons and to the spin of the molecule, the spin anisotropy of such a molecule becomes enhanced. This has, in turn, a profound impact on the TMR of such a device showing that molecular vibrations lead to a significant change of spin-polarized transport, differing for the parallel and antiparallel magnetic configuration of the junction.

The coastal areas are the locus of activities requiring water of good physicochemical quality: recreational uses, aquaculture and fishing. These areas are under the direct influence of wadis and wastewaters which pass by the contributions of watersheds, urban and industrial discharge. These discharges result, when the renewal of water masses is small compared to release, significant degradation of water quality and marine ecosystem.This study focuses on an assessment of water quality of urban and industrial effluents from two coastal urban centers western (Oran and Mostaganem), with the aim of assessing the state of contamination by heavy metals (Cd, Pb and Zn), as well as the evaluation of the physico-chemical quality of marine waters to determine the potential impact of metal pollution on the west coast of Algeria.The average concentration of cadmium is maximal for the industrial effluent of Mostaganem (0.88 mg.l-1 – standard deviation: 1.35 mg.l-1). For zinc, the highest average concentration corresponds to the urban effluent of Mostaganem (0.92 mg.l-1 – standard deviation: 1.35 mg.l-1). Lead has average concentrations high enough at the three studied effluents: 0.23 mg.l-1 at the urban effluent of Oran (standard deviation: 0.22 mg.l-1), 0.22 mg.l-1 at the industrial effluent of Mostaganem (standard deviation: 0.21 mg.l-1) and 0.19 mg.l-1 at the urban effluent of Mostaganem (standard deviation: 0.20 mg.l-1). If heavy metal concentrations vary greatly from one sample to another, as reflected in the standard deviations, no lasting change is apparent. Only average levels of cadmium are exceeding the normative.

This investigation on the parasitic biodiversity of Striped Red Mullet, Mullus surmuletus, revealed the presence of 14 parasite species, including seven species of Digenea, four species of Nematoda, two species of Acanthocephala, and one Cestoda. Opecoelides furcatus and Proctotrema bacilliovatum are the most prevalent digenean species, present in 70% and 17% of the fish specimens analyzed, respectively. Concerning nematode species, Hysterothylacium fabri, Ascarophis valentina and Cucullanus longicollis have shown a prevalence of 66%, 17% and 8% respectively, among all specimens of M. surmuletus analyzed.

Abstract Background Lead exposure is common in automobile battery manufacture and repair, radiator repair, secondary smelters and welding units. Urinary Aminolevulinic acid has validity as a surrogate measure of blood lead level among workers occupationally exposed to lead. This study had therefore assessed the magnitude of lead exposure in battery repair workers of three transport service enterprises. Methods To this effect, a cross-sectional study was carried out on lead exposure among storage battery repair workers between November 2004 and May 2005 from Anbasa, Comet and Walia transport service enterprises, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Subjective information from the workers was obtained by making use of structured questionnaire. Other information was obtained from walkthrough evaluation of the repair units. Aminolevulinic acid levels in urine were used as an index of the exposure. This was coupled to measurements of other relevant parameters in blood and urine collected from adult subjects working in the repair units as well as age matched control subjects that were not occupationally exposed to lead. Aminolevulinic acid was determined by spectrophotometry, while creatinine clearance, serum creatinine, urea and uric acid levels were determined using AMS Autolab analyzer. Results Urinary aminolevulinic acid levels were found to be significantly higher in exposed group (16 μg/ml ± 2.0) compared to the non-exposed ones (7 μg/ml ± 1.0) (p < 0.001). Alcohol taking exposed subjects exhibited a significant increase in urinary aminolevulinic acid levels than non-alcohol taking ones (p < 0.05). Moreover, urinary aminolevulinic acid levels of exposed subjects increased with age (p < 0.001) as well as duration of employment (p < 0.001). Whereas serum uric acid levels of exposed subjects was significantly higher than non-exposed ones (p < 0.05), no statistically significant difference had been found in renal indices and other measured parameters between exposed and non-exposed subjects. From the questionnaire responses and walkthrough observations, it was also known that all the repair units did not implement effective preventive and control measures for workplace lead exposure. Conclusion Taken together, these findings indicated that workers in lead acid battery repair units of the transport service enterprises are not protected from possibly high lead exposure. Thus, strict enforcement of appropriate and cost effective preventive and control measures is required by all the enterprises.

Objectives: to assess the survival rates of removable partial dentures (RPDs) and identify factors impacting their longevity., Methods: electronic health records were retrieved of patients aged ≥18 who received RPDs between 2010 - 2021 with a follow-up of ≥ three months. Data extracted included demographics, medical history, dental charting, periodontal screening and recording scores, prostheses details and related interventions, including new dentures/denture remakes, and maintenance. Multivariate Mixed-Effect Cox regression was performed to identify potential RPD survival risk factors. Reduced model selection was reached using a backward step-down by comparing the performance of these multivariable models using the ANOVA test., Results: 1893 RPDs from 1246 patients were included, with a median follow-up of 21.8 months (range from 3 to 131.3 months). Three hundred and twelve patients received a maxillary RPD, 460 received a mandibular RPD, and the remaining 474 patients received both maxillary and mandibular RPDs. Metal-based RPDs had a median survival of 73 months (95%CI: 70 - 82) versus 45 months (95% CI: 37-67) for acrylic ones. Multivariable mixed effects Cox model showed that the lifespans of RPDs were longer amongst patients receiving more maintenance care within three months [Hazards Ratio (HR)=0.89 (0.83, 0.96)] and after three months [HR=0.53 (0.46, 0.61)] of denture delivery, patients wearing both maxillary and mandibular RPDs [HR=0.67 (0.52, 0.87)], and patients receiving metal-based RPDs [HR=0.31 (0.23, 0.42)]., Conclusions: Metal-based dentures, dual arch restoration, and increased maintenance positively impact the survival of RPDs., Clinical Significance: Adapting consent and warranty practices is advised to reflect RPD performance variations., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest No conflict of interest was present at the time of preparing this manuscript. There is no internal or external funding to report., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease characterized by recurrent respiratory symptoms. Several studies demonstrated that psychological comorbidities are common in patients with bronchiectasis. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression in bronchiectasis patients and assess their association with disease severity. In this cross-sectional study, we included patients diagnosed with bronchiectasis. The study was conducted using an interviewer-administered questionnaire via phone calls and data collected from the electronic medical records at JUH. The questionnaire included patients' demographics and disease characteristics. Anxiety and depression were assessed using GAD7 and PHQ9 respectively. Bronchiectasis disease severity was assessed using BSI and FACED score. The total number of included patients was 133. Moreover, 53.4% of the participants were females while the rest were males (46.6%). PHQ9 demonstrated that 65.4% of the patients had depression. Regarding anxiety, GAD7 scale showed that 54.1% of the patients had anxiety. Pearson correlation showed that bronchiectasis severity index was significantly associated only with PHQ9 depression scores (r = 0.212, P value = 0.014). The prevalence of depression and anxiety is high among patients with bronchiectasis. We believe that patients affected with bronchiectasis should be screened for depression to improve their quality of life., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Considering the positive influence of simulation from previous literature may encourage educators to regard it as a valuable teaching strategy in nursing schools. This literature review aims to investigate whether the use of simulation improves undergraduate nurses' self-confidence during clinical practice., Methodology: This study employed a literature-based design. Five academic databases, including CINAHL, EBSCO, ProQuest, PubMed and Medline, were utilised to extract relevant studies using appropriate keywords and Boolean operators. Studies published in the last 15 years (2005-2020) were included in the search. Studies were retrieved using the Exclusion and Inclusion criteria. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) was used to critically appraise the studies., Results: A total of 15 primary research studies were extracted for review. Four major themes emerged from the review: Improved self-confidence to carry out clinical tasks, Increased ability to work in teams, Improved self-confidence to perform community work and Improved self-confidence in communicating with patients and team members., Conclusion: Clinical simulation is a useful tool in increasing the self-confidence of nursing students to perform clinical tasks, make clinical judgements, communicate with patients and team members and improve their teamwork. To improve the quality of care received by patients, it is recommended that clinical simulations be integrated into the nursing curriculum in Saudi Arabia. Increasing the confidence of students has been shown to be associated with greater confidence in performing clinical tasks., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Patients' assessment of care navigating cardiovascular disorders is imperative in improving the quality of care provided. The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of people living with cardiovascular disorders on the care they received and its relationship with general self-efficacy., Methods: This investigation employed a cross-sectional correlational approach. The study sample was comprised of patients with cardiovascular disorders from both the King Khalid Hospital and the King Salman Specialist Hospital, in Hail City, Saudi Arabia. Convenience sampling was used, resulting in 104 participants. A survey using a self-administered questionnaire was employed to collect the data, which ran from 10 March to 20 May 2023., Results: The participants perceived that they occasionally (2.75 ± 1.053) received care, and they perceived themselves to have better self-efficacy (25.28/40). Of note, the age (0.062), years of being diagnosed with having the disease (-0.174), sex (0.180), educational attainment (0.125), and occupation (0.206) were found to have no significant relationship with the patient assessment of care with chronic cardiovascular disease (PACIC). However, civil status (0.867) was found to have a strong positive correlation to the PACIC. No significant relationship was found between age and GSE (0.070) and PACIC (0.62), civil status with GSE (0.013), years being diagnosed with having the disease with GSE (0.095), and PACIC (0.174) educational attainment with GSE (0.088) and PACIC (0.125) or occupation (0.115) with GSE. However, sex (0.795) was found to have a strong correlation with general self-efficacy (GSE). Of note, patient activation (0.390) and goal setting (0.360) had a moderate positive correlation while problem solving (0.228) and follow-up (0.278) had a weak positive correlation to GSE. Meanwhile, the delivery system (0.507) had a strong positive correlation to GSE. This study illuminates the value of self-efficacy and patient involvement as self-management techniques for cardiovascular illnesses. Future cardiovascular illness self-management initiatives should concentrate on enhancing patient self-efficacy by adopting the PACIC.

With global demand for 3D printed medical devices on the rise, the search for safer, inexpensive, and sustainable methods is timely. Herein, we assessed the practicality of the material extrusion process for acrylic denture bases of which successful outcomes can be extended to implant surgical guides, orthodontic splints, impression trays, record bases and obturators for cleft palates or other maxillary defects. Representative materials comprising denture prototypes and test samples were designed and built with in-house polymethylmethacrylate filaments using varying print directions (PDs), layer heights (LHs) and reinforcements (RFs) with short glass fiber. The study undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the materials to determine their flexural, fracture, and thermal properties. Additional analyses for tensile and compressive properties, chemical composition, residual monomer, and surface roughness (Ra) were completed for parts with optimum parameters. Micrographic analysis of the acrylic composites revealed adequate fiber-matrix compatibility and predictably, their mechanical properties improved simultaneously with RFs and decreased LHs. Fiber reinforcement also improved the overall thermal conductivity of the materials. Ra, on the other hand, improved visibly with decreased RFs and LHs and the prototypes were effortlessly polished and characterized with veneering composites to mimic gingival tissues. In terms of chemical stability, the residual methyl methacrylate monomer contents are well below standards threshold for biological reactions. Notably, 5 vol% acrylic composites built with 0.05 mm LH in 0° on z-axis produced optimum properties that are superior to those of conventional acrylic, milled acrylic and 3D printed photopolymers. Finite element modeling successfully replicated the tensile properties of the prototypes. It may well be argued that the material extrusion process is cost-effective; however, the speed of manufacturing could be longer than that of established methods. Although the mean Ra is within an acceptable range, mandatory manual finishing and aesthetic pigmentation are required for long-term intraoral use. At a proof-of-concept level, it is evident that the material extrusion process can be applied to build inexpensive, safe, and robust thermoplastic acrylic devices. The broad outcomes of this novel study are equally worthy of academic reflection, and further translation to the clinic., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of stacking on the dimensional and full-arch accuracy of 3D-printed models, utilising a standardised assessment methodology. A previously validated methodology involving a standard tessellation language image (STL) reference model, comprising seven spheres on a horseshoe base resembling a dental arch, was used. Six 3D-designed STL models were prepared, optimised, and stacked horizontally using 3D Sprint software. The stacking file was transferred to the NextDent 5100 printer to build the physical models. To assess accuracy, a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) measured the diameter of the spheres n=210, and twenty-one vectors extended between the centres of each of the seven spheres ( n = 630). When compared to the reference model, significant differences were observed for dimensional ( p = 0.006) and full-arch accuracy ( p = 0.006) for all stacked models. Additionally, significant differences were observed between the stacked models for the dimensional accuracy between the posterior ( p = 0.015), left posterior ( p = 0.005) and anteroposterior ( p = 0.002). The maximum contraction was observed in the fourth stacked model, which demonstrated the highest median deviation and least precision within the full-arch (MD = 666 μm, IQR = 55 μm), left posterior (MD = 136 μm, IQR = 12 μm), posterior (MD = 177 μm, IQR = 14 μm) and anteroposterior (MD = 179 μm, IQR = 16 μm) arch segments. In general, the anterior and left posterior arch segments recorded the highest contractions with a median deviation of 34 μm and 29 μm, and precision of 32 μm and 22 μm, respectively. Statistically significant differences were observed between the stacked models in terms of dimensional accuracy that were within clinically acceptable thresholds. The greatest contraction was noted in the fourth model, displaying the least full-arch accuracy compared to the other models. Stacked, additively manufactured, full arch models are a viable alternative for diagnostic, orthodontic, and single-unit prosthodontic applications. In contrast, caution should be exercised when utilising stacked models for full arch high accuracy prosthodontic applications. Further research is needed to assess the impact of additional variables including different printers and resins.

mRNA vaccines have recently proved to be highly effective against SARS-CoV-2. Key to their success is the lipid-based nanoparticle (LNP), which enables efficient mRNA expression and endows the vaccine with adjuvant properties that drive potent antibody responses. Effective cancer vaccines require long-lived, qualitative CD8 T cell responses instead of antibody responses. Systemic vaccination appears to be the most effective route, but necessitates adaptation of LNP composition to deliver mRNA to antigen-presenting cells. Using a design-of-experiments methodology, we tailored mRNA-LNP compositions to achieve high-magnitude tumor-specific CD8 T cell responses within a single round of optimization. Optimized LNP compositions resulted in enhanced mRNA uptake by multiple splenic immune cell populations. Type I interferon and phagocytes were found to be essential for the T cell response. Surprisingly, we also discovered a yet unidentified role of B cells in stimulating the vaccine-elicited CD8 T cell response. Optimized LNPs displayed a similar, spleen-centered biodistribution profile in non-human primates and did not trigger histopathological changes in liver and spleen, warranting their further assessment in clinical studies. Taken together, our study clarifies the relationship between nanoparticle composition and their T cell stimulatory capacity and provides novel insights into the underlying mechanisms of effective mRNA-LNP-based antitumor immunotherapy., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests S.B., E.V.d.V., S.S., M.M., D.V.H., and S.D.K. are employees of eTheRNA Immunotherapies NV. S.B., S.A.A.K., R.M.S., and S.D.K. have applied for patents related to this study., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: To evaluate the association and level of evidence between socioeconomic status (SES) and tooth wear (TW) in children, adolescents, and adults., Data: Eligibility criteria comprised population-based observational studies assessing the association between SES and TW in permanent dentition of adolescents and adults. Interventional and descriptive studies or those without an internal comparison between exposed and nonexposed groups were excluded. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were applied where applicable. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Meta-analyses were conducted to estimate the pooled effect measures. Q-statistic, I 2 statistic, subgroup and sensitivity analyses assessed study heterogeneity., Sources: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, SciELO, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases were searched for articles published in English between 1st January 1980 and 31st March 2021., Results: Sixty-five studies were included, involving 63,893 participants in over 30 countries. A positive association was found between TW and education (OR=1.25 [0.96; 1.62]), family income (OR=1.18 [0.91; 1.53]), and private school (OR= 1.24 [0.90; 1.72]) among adolescents. Higher educated adults had a lower risk for TW (OR=0.70 [0.52; 0.93]). Most included studies had a moderate RoB. Limitations relating to population representation and assessment methodologies were identified in the included studies., Conclusions: SES was associated with TW with its direction depending on the individuals' age. The overall quality of evidence was moderate., Clinical Significanc: SES should be included as part of the routine screening and risk assessment for tooth wear., (Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the existing literature to assess the clinical survival and success of PICN and ZLS indirect restorations as the clinical evidence for them remains lacking. PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, LILACs, and SciElo databases were searched from 1 January 2000 to 1 February 2021. Clinical trials and cohort studies published in English were included while case studies, case series, and in vitro studies were excluded. Results were analyzed qualitatively and a meta-analysis using a random effects model was performed. A strength of recommendation taxonomy (SORT) analysis was conducted and risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and Cochrane RoB tools. An electronic search through the databases yielded 2454 articles, of which 825 remained after duplicate removal. Five studies investigating PICN and four investigating ZLS indirect restorations remained after assessing for eligibility. The overall survival rate of PICN over 1 year was 99.6% and 99.2% over 2 years. The overall survival rate of ZLS over 1 year was 99%. The main mode of failure for both materials was catastrophic fracture. One study had a high RoB, four had a moderate RoB, and four had a low RoB. Both materials demonstrated moderate strength of recommendation at a level 2 evidence for all studies based on SORT analysis. PICN and ZLS show promising short-term clinical performance as full and partial coverage indirect restorations, but longer follow-up studies are required to confirm their long-term performance.

Objective: to assess the expectations, perceptions and performance of different operators with varying backgrounds and training in the use of full-arch intraoral scanning (IOS)., Methods and Materials: Dentists (DENT), postgraduate dental students (DPG), and student prosthetists (PROS) were invited to join an IOS training workshop. Participants completed a satisfactory scan of a mannikin-mounted typodont with the total scanning time (TST) recorded. They also completed anonymised pre and post-training questionnaires covering their background, and IOS expectations and experience. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis, and chi-square tests. Open-ended questions were analysed manually and using Leximancer., Results: Twenty-seven participants were recruited: 10 DENT; 10 PROS; and 7 DPG. Positive expectations of IOS was reported by 93 % of participants. Combined TST was 285 ± 83 s, with the PROS TST significantly longer (p < 0.05, 337 ± 79 s). Further training need was reported by 60 % of PROS and 50 % of DENT versus 14 % of DPG. Positive IOS experience was reported by 96 % of participants, 74 % perceived it to be accurate, and 63 % found it easy to use. Eighty-five percent of all participants stated that cost would influence their decision of adopting IOS in their practice., Conclusion: Expectations and perceptions of IOS were overwhelmingly positive, irrespective of operator background and experience. Scanning performance and training needs depended on the operator's background. Cost of IOS remains a barrier to acquiring the technology., Clinical Significance: IOS training must be customised to accommodate the needs of different operators. The cost of IOS needs revision to improve its accessibility., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Distal tibial fractures are difficult to manage as the bone is subcutaneous with depleted muscular cover; the consequent decreased vascularity leads to complications. Minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) is a very good option for managing this type of fractures. This study was carried out to evaluate the outcome of patients treated with distal tibial locking plate by MIPO technique. Twenty patients with distal tibia fractures treated with distal tibial anatomical locking plate were prospectively studied from July 2013 to December 2016. The result was excellent in 18(90%) of patients i.e. 18 patients had an AOFAS score of 90 or greater out of a possible 100 points. The mean score was 94.28; the mean time for radiological union was 20.1 weeks with a range of 16 to 30 weeks. We encountered superficial infection in 02 (10%) of our patients which were managed with dressings and appropriate antibiotics. Two patients had union with valgus angulation of less than 5°. No malunion was detected. One patient had ankle stiffness requiring extensive physiotherapy to regain range of movement. Plate removal was done in 4 cases. MIPO technique is a good fixation method for fractures distal third of tibia, preserving blood supply & fracture hematoma.

Purpose: Fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) have received considerable attention, owing to their potential use in dental prostheses or bone fracture fixation applications. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze and report the biological properties of FRCs reported in the existing literature., Study Selections: A systematic search of four databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane library) was performed to identify all relevant studies published between 1962 and 2019. The search was limited to laboratory-based studies published in English. Citation mining was also performed through cross-referencing of included studies and hand searching of relevant journals., Results: A total of 1283 potentially relevant articles were initially identified, and thirty-three articles were full-text screened. In the final ten studies included for review, four investigated bacterial adhesion and growth abilities on FRCs, four investigated the fibroblastic cytotoxicity of different surface-treated FRCs, and two investigated the osseointegration between bone and FRCs. Owing to the heterogeneity of fiber types, FRC-coating, and lack of standardized testing protocols, a meta-analysis was not feasible. The included studies indicated that glass fibers, and in particular E-glass fibers, are superior to ceramics and other FRCs in terms of bacterial adherence, fibroblast cytotoxicity, and cell viability., Conclusions: Glass-fiber-reinforced composites are cytocompatible materials that possess satisfactory biological properties and can be used in dental prosthesis and craniofacial implants. Further research is necessary to regulate the matrix ion release/degradation of FRCs to prolong the initially demonstrated properties.

This aim was to assess the biomechanical and biocompatibility properties of novel glass fibre-reinforced composites (FRCs) with a fluorinated urethane dimethacrylate (FUDMA) resin. Three ratios of FUDMA/TEGDMA (30/70 wt%, 50/50 wt%, 70/30 wt%) and two ratios of control FRCs with bis-GMA/TEGDMA (50/50 wt% and 70/30 wt%) containing long silanized E-glass fibres were prepared. Despite 70 wt% bis-GMA-FRC showed a significantly higher flexural strength (p < 0.05), 50 wt% FUDMA- and bis-GMA-FRCs were not differ from each other. The greatest surface hardness and weight increase after water storage were found in 70 wt% and 30 wt% FUDMA-FRCs, respectively. No significant difference was found in water sorption and solubility among all groups. Average surface roughness was 1.80 ± 0.05 μm, while 70 wt% FUDMA-FRC exhibited the greatest contact angle (p > 0.05). Viabilities and ALP activities of MC3TC-E1 cells in all FUDMA-FRCs were higher than bis-GMA-FRCs after 5 days. To conclude, the novel FUDMA-FRCs are potential substitutes that exhibited superior cytocompatibility properties but comparable biomechanical properties to bis-GMA-FRCs., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The use of additive manufacturing in dentistry has exponentially increased with dental model construction being the most common use of the technology. Henceforth, identifying the accuracy of additively manufactured dental models is critical. The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature and evaluate the accuracy of full-arch dental models manufactured using different 3D printing technologies. Seven databases were searched, and 2209 articles initially identified of which twenty-eight studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria were analysed. A meta-analysis was not possible due to unclear reporting and heterogeneity of studies. Stereolithography (SLA) was the most investigated technology, followed by digital light processing (DLP). Accuracy of 3D printed models varied widely between <100 to >500 μm with the majority of models deemed of clinically acceptable accuracy. The smallest (3.3 μm) and largest (579 μm) mean errors were produced by SLA printers. For DLP, majority of investigated printers ( n = 6/8) produced models with <100 μm accuracy. Manufacturing parameters, including layer thickness, base design, postprocessing and storage, significantly influenced the model's accuracy. Majority of studies supported the use of 3D printed dental models. Nonetheless, models deemed clinically acceptable for orthodontic purposes may not necessarily be acceptable for the prosthodontic workflow or applications requiring high accuracy.

BACKGROUND Numb chin syndrome is a rare and under diagnosed neuropathy of the inferior alveolar branch of the trigeminal nerve usually causing a lower lip and chin anesthesia or paresthesia. The syndrome is commonly associated with broad-spectrum malignant and non-malignant conditions. CASE REPORT Here we report a case of a 30-year-old male who presented with numb chin syndrome in the form of jaw pain, paresthesia, and hypoesthesia of the mental area as the presenting symptoms of acute of myeloid leukemia with t(8;21) treated with (3+7) protocol (3 days anthracycline+7 days cytarabine). The pain and paresthesia improved but hypothesia persisted. CONCLUSIONS Acute myeloid leukemia is one of the most serious causes of numb chin syndrome which should not be overlooked.

Purpose: To assess the average full-arch scanning time, perception and likelihood of future adoption of technology by final-year dental students using three different Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) intraoral scanning systems., Methods: Final-year undergraduate Dental Students (FDS), with no prior experience of intraoral scanning, full-arch scanned (IOS) a mannequin head-mounted model under supervision. Three scanning systems were used, TRIOS Colour (TRIOS); True Definition (TDef); and CEREC AC OmniCam (CEREC). Thereafter, FDS completed a questionnaire to assess their perception of IOS. Data were analysed by Generalized Estimating Equations, Fisher's exact tests and logistic regression., Results: Forty-nine FDS participated. Average full arch IOS time varied significantly (p<0.001) among the TRIOS, CEREC, and TDef, at 4min (n=48), 4min 42s (n=33), and 7min 32s (n=41) respectively. IOS using the TRIOS was significantly (p<0.001) the quickest, while TDef was the slowest (p<0.001). Seventy-one percent of FDS had positive overall IOS experience. FDS who reported intraoral scanning was timesaving compared with conventional impressions were more likely to adopt the technology after graduation (odds ratio (OR)=11.91, 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.56-55.45, p=0.002)., Conclusions: Intraoral scanning performance of novice users varied significantly and was dependent on the scanning system used. The questionnaire showed that the overall IOS experience was positive amongst FDS. The perception of time-saving, when using IOS versus conventional impression methods, determined the likelihood of future adoption of the technology., (Copyright © 2018 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To report the intraoperative complications associated with small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and their management., Methods: This was a retrospective consecutive interventional clinical study, carried out on patients with myopia and myopic astigmatism, who underwent SMILE procedure. Type of intraoperative complications and their management were recorded., Results: Our study comprised 282 eyes of 141 patients who were enrolled for SMILE surgeries. The intraoperative complications included lost vacuum (18 eyes, 6.38%), treatment decentration (6 eyes, 2.12%), wound bleeding (21 eyes, 7.45%), incomplete bubble separation (black islands) (3 eyes, 1.06%), the epithelial defects (15 eyes, 5.32%). Incision tear (27 eyes, 9.57%), lenticule adherence to the cap (6 eyes, 2.12%), and cap perforation occurred in 2 eyes (0.7%)., Conclusion: Although SMILE is a promising technique for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism with predictable, efficient, safe refractive and visual outcomes, complications can occur. However, most of them are related to inexperience and are included in the learning curve of the technique. More studies with a bigger number of eyes are required to efficiently evaluate the intraoperative complications and standardize their management strategies.

Purpose: Evaluation of using pigtail probe to detect and open severely stenosed lower lacrimal punctum followed by self-retaining bicanalicular intubation., Study Design: A prospective nonrandomized clinical study., Methods: The study included 24 patients with severe lower punctal stenosis (grade 0 according to Kashkouli scale) attending at Menoufia University Hospitals. The upper punctum and canaliculus were patent. All patients were complaining of epiphora and had a thorough ophthalmological examination including dye disappearance test and slit-lamp examination. Pigtail probe was used from patent upper punctum to detect the lower stenosed punctum which was opened with a scalpel. Syringing of the lower lacrimal passages was done to confirm its patency, and self-retaining silicone bicanalicular stent was inserted. The silicone tube was left in place for 6 months before it was removed. Patients were then followed-up for 1 year after the surgery., Results: One year after surgery, epiphora was absent (grade 0) in 16 eyes (66.7%) and was present only occasionally (grade 1) in 4 eyes (16.7%). The difference from preoperative epiphora was statistically significant. One year after surgery, fluorescein dye disappearance time was grade 1 (<3 minutes) in 20 cases (83.3%), and grade 2 (3-5 minutes) in 4 cases (16.7%). There was a statistically significant difference compared with preoperative results., Conclusion: Using the pigtail probe is effective in treatment of severe punctal stenosis. Maintaining the punctal opening and prevention of restenosis can be achieved by using self-retaining bicanalicular stent after confirmation of nasolacrimal duct patency. This trial is registered with NCT03731143.

Background and Objective: To evaluate the anatomical and functional retinal complications of combined sofosbuvir and ribavirin therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV)., Patients and Methods: Three hundred patients with chronic HCV were recruited for this prospective, observational study from the National Liver Institute of Menoufia University from November 2015 to September 2017. Ophthalmic examination and follow-up were performed in the outpatient clinic of the Ophthalmology Department at Menoufia University. All patients received the same regimen (sofosbuvir and ribavirin) for 6 months. Patients were followed up during the period of treatment (6 months) and for 6 months after treatment completion. Complete ophthalmic examination, fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) (to detect retinal ischemia), optical coherence tomography (OCT) (to detect retinal nerve fiber layer [RNFL] thickness and central macular thickening), and electroretinogram (ERG) (to detect rod and cone functions) tests were performed before and after treatment completion., Results: The mean age of the patients was 46.17 years ± 11.38 years (range: 20 years to 60 years). The study included 138 men (46%) and 162 women (54%). During follow-up, there were no signs of retinopathy or optic nerve affection. There were also no signs of retinal ischemia (by FFA), RNFL affection, macular edema (by OCT), or rod or cone affection (by ERG)., Conclusion: Combined treatment (sofosbuvir and ribavirin) may be safe without causing anatomical or functional retinal complications. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019;50:39-42.]., (Copyright 2019, SLACK Incorporated.)

Hexavalent chromium is one of the most chronic and harmful to human beings, animals, and environmental well-being, and hence needs a high attention to detoxify it. For this purpose, bimetallic (In,Ga) 2 (O,S) 3 oxy-sulfide nanoflower catalyst with different Ga contents was successfully synthesized at a low temperature of 150 °C via a facile method. It was systematically characterized and the visible light-driven photocatalytic reduction of toxic Cr(VI) was 100% completed at 4 min. The Cr(VI) reduction reaction rate constant was 13.8 fold higher than that of Ga-free In 2 (O,S) 3 catalyst. It also showed lower recombination of photogenerated charge carriers, faster interfacial reaction rate, and higher electrical conductivity. The photoexcited electrons and H + ions played crucial roles in the reduction of Cr(VI). The Cr(III) composition was 12.0% of the total atomic composition. The as-synthesized catalyst showed a tremendously fast Cr(VI) reduction activity and hence, it is promising for detoxification of hazardous Cr(VI)., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This paper reviews the current state of computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in dentistry, with a special focus on restorative dental applications. The potential, advantages, and limitations of the technology will be discussed, comparing the digital workflow to conventional techniques, based on contemporary clinical evidence. The technology does seem to offer a more streamlined and efficient means of treatment planning and delivery of care through reduced chairside time, with reported improved patient satisfaction. Nonetheless, the accuracy and treatment outcomes of CAD/CAM treatment modalities are inconsistent and do not support a superior performance to existing conventional techniques, rather a comparable one.

Objectives: to assess FRC FPDs longevity through systematically reviewing contemporary clinical evidence. Population investigated comprised patients requiring replacement of a single missing anterior/posterior tooth. Intervention was FRC FPDs. No control/comparison selected. Outcome was longevity of FRC FPDs. The focus question was: 'What is the longevity of FRC FPDs used to replace one anterior or posterior tooth in patients?', Data: Randomised, non-randomised, controlled, prospective and retrospective clinical studies were included. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses were applied. The Overall Strength of Clinical Recommendation (OSCR) was assessed using the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy system. Survival of FPDs was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Analysis of FPD-survival according to location and occurrence of different failures was performed using Logrank and Chi-square testing., Sources: PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases were searched between January 2007 and December 2015., Study Selection: Nine studies were included, involving placement of 592 FRC FPDs in 463 patients. Follow-up periods ranged between 2 months and 8 years. Kaplan-Meier overall survival probability was 94.5% (95%C.I: 92.5%-96.5%) at 4.8 years. There was no significant difference in survival probability of anterior versus posterior FRC FPDs (P=0.278). Veneering material fracture/delamination occurred significantly more than other types of failures (Ps<0.05). A meta-analysis could not be performed. OSCR was moderate., Conclusions: FRC FPDs demonstrated high overall survival with predictable performance outcomes. However, long-term performance remains unclear., Clinical Significance: FRC FPDs are viable medium-term management alternatives for replacing single anterior or posterior teeth in patients., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: The aim of this study was to clinically monitor the progression of tooth wear over a period of 1 year in a cohort of referred tooth wear patients through the use of a computer-aided design/computer-assisted manufacture (CAD/CAM) scanner and a standardized scanning/assessment methodology., Materials and Methods: Polyether impressions were made of 11 participants (130 teeth) at baseline and at 1 year. Impressions were poured in type IV dental stone and the anterior teeth were 3D scanned. A surface-matching software was used to compare 1-year and baseline scans and identify any dimensional differences., Results: Parafunctional habits were reported by all patients. All participants exhibited tooth wear ≥ 140 μm in depth and extending to ≥ 280 μm in at least one tooth. Maxillary central incisors were the most commonly and severely affected teeth., Conclusion: The ability of the developed CAD/CAM scanning methodology in clinical monitoring of tooth wear was demonstrated. Further research is needed to assess its practicality in large-scale epidemiologic tooth wear studies.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to detail and assess the capability of a novel methodology to 3D-quantify tooth wear progression in a patient over a period of 12 months., Materials and Methods: A calibrated stainless steel model was used to identify the accuracy of the scanning system by assessing the accuracy and precision of the contact scanner and the dimensional accuracy and stability of casts fabricated from three different types of impression materials. Thereafter, the overall accuracy of the 3D scanning system (scanner and casts) was ascertained. Clinically, polyether impressions were made of the patient's dentition at the initial examination and at the 12-month review, then poured in type IV dental stone to assess the tooth wear. The anterior teeth on the resultant casts were scanned, and images were analyzed using 3D matching software to detect dimensional variations between the patient's impressions., Results: The accuracy of the 3D scanning system was established to be 33 μm. 3D clinical analysis demonstrated localized wear on the incisal and palatal surfaces of the patient's maxillary central incisors. The identified wear extended to a depth of 500 μm with a distribution of 4% to 7% of affected tooth surfaces., Conclusion: The newly developed 3D scanning methodology was found to be capable of assessing and accounting for the various factors affecting tooth wear scanning. Initial clinical evaluation of the methodology demonstrates successful monitoring of tooth wear progression. However, further clinical assessment is needed.

Tooth wear is a condition that affects a substantial cohort of dental patients. It has a measurable impact on patients' satisfaction, and overall quality of life. Recently, with growing evidence, our understanding of the aetiology, progression, and management of tooth wear has evolved. The paper argues that pathological tooth wear should not be solely considered as a dental condition, but rather a dental manifestation of other mental and medical disorders. As such, successful management of tooth wear, and its underlying aetiology, requires a holistic, multidisciplinary management approach, involving dental, medical, and mental healthcare providers.

The use of composite restorations for patients with tooth wear is considered as a more conservative treatment option. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature investigating the survival rates of anterior composite restorations when used in managing tooth wear in patients. PubMed and MEDLINE (Ovid) databases were screened for studies from 1995 to 2015. Cross-referencing was used to further identify articles. Article selection and data extraction were performed in duplication. Languages were restricted to English. A quality appraisal of included studies was carried out using the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy system. Six hundred and sixty-six articles were initially identified from which eight articles were full-text reviewed. Six articles involving five studies were selected for inclusion. Three studies were prospective and two retrospective. Included studies involved placement of 772 direct and indirect anterior composite restorations in 100 patients with follow-up periods between 5 months and 10 years. The survival rates of anterior composites were >90% and 50% at 2.5 and 5 years, respectively. Posterior occlusion was re-established in 91% of patients within 18 months. Meta-analysis could not be performed due to the heterogeneity of included studies. The systematic review's overall strength of recommendation was graded B. There is evidence to support the use of anterior composite restorations at an increased vertical dimension of occlusion in the short/medium-term management of tooth wear. Long-term reporting of outcomes remains limited. Further research is needed with standardised study design, detailed reporting of outcomes and long-term review., (© 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)