bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
County-Level Radon and Incidence of Female Thyroid Cancer in Iowa, New Jersey, and Wisconsin, USA
Authors: Oakland Caroline , Meliker Jaymie
Published: March 2018

Background: Few studies have investigated the association between radon and thyroid cancer despite the sensitivity of the thyroid gland to radiation. Our goal is to investigate the association between county-level radon and incidence of female thyroid cancer in the US States of Iowa, New Jersey, and Wisconsin. Methods: Thyroid cancer incidence data were provided by individual state cancer registries and span 1990–2013. Radon data come from a publicly available third-party database, AirChek, accessed in 2017. We tabulated the percent of radon above four picocuries per liter and the female thyroid cancer incidence rate in each county. Quantile maps were constructed, and an ordinary least-squares regression model was run using Geoda 1.10.0.8 (Chicago, IL, USA). Results: No association was observed between county-level radon and incidence of female thyroid cancer in any of the States: New Jersey (β = 0.06, p = 0.23); Iowa (β = −0.07, p = 0.07); or Wisconsin (β = −0.01, p = 0.78). A spatial regression model was considered, but the Moran’s I of the residuals from each of the models was not significant, so no spatial term was required. Discussion: In this county-level ecological study across three different States in the US, we did not find an association between elevated radon and thyroid cancer incidence in women. While this ecologic study reports null findings, due to the ecologic fallacy, individual-level studies of this association may still be warranted.
Antiviral Defense and Innate Immune Memory in the Oyster
Authors: Green Timothy , Speck Peter
Published: March 2018

The Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, is becoming a valuable model for investigating antiviral defense in the Lophotrochozoa superphylum. In the past five years, improvements to laboratory-based experimental infection protocols using Ostreid herpesvirus I (OsHV-1) from naturally infected C. gigas combined with next-generation sequencing techniques has revealed that oysters have a complex antiviral response involving the activation of all major innate immune pathways. Experimental evidence indicates C. gigas utilizes an interferon-like response to limit OsHV-1 replication and spread. Oysters injected with a viral mimic (polyI:C) develop resistance to OsHV-1. Improved survival following polyI:C injection was found later in life (within-generational immune priming) and in the next generation (multi-generational immune priming). These studies indicate that the oyster’s antiviral defense system exhibits a form of innate immune-memory. An important priority is to identify the molecular mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon. This knowledge will motivate the development of practical and cost-effective treatments for improving oyster health in aquaculture.
Relativistic Spacecraft Propelled by Directed Energy
Authors: Kulkarni Neeraj , Lubin Philip , Zhang Qicheng
Published: March 2018

Achieving relativistic flight to enable extrasolar exploration is one of the dreams of humanity and the long-term goal of our NASA Starlight program. We derive a relativistic solution for the motion of a spacecraft propelled by radiation pressure from a directed energy (DE) system. Depending on the system parameters, low-mass spacecraft can achieve relativistic speeds, thus enabling interstellar exploration. The diffraction of the DE system plays an important role and limits the maximum speed of the spacecraft. We consider “photon recycling” as a possible method to achieving higher speeds. We also discuss recent claims that our previous work on this topic is incorrect and show that these claims arise from an improper treatment of causality.
Resolving the Inner Arcsecond of the RY Tau Jet with HST
Authors: Skinner Stephen L. , Schneider P. Christian , Audard Marc , Güdel Manuel
Published: March 2018

Faint X-ray emission from hot plasma (T

x
 > 106 K) has been detected extending outward a few arcseconds along the optically delineated jets of some classical T Tauri stars including RY Tau. The mechanism and location where the jets are heated to X-ray temperatures are unknown. We present high spatial resolution Hubble Space Telescope (HST) far-ultraviolet long-slit observations of RY Tau with the slit aligned along the jet. The primary objective was to search for C iv emission from warm plasma at T
C iv
 ∼ 105 K within the inner jet (<1″) that cannot be fully resolved by X-ray telescopes. Spatially resolved C iv emission is detected in the blueshifted jet extending outward from the star to 1″ and in the redshifted jet out to 0.″5. C iv line centroid shifts give a radial velocity in the blueshifted jet of −136 ± 10 km s−1 at an offset of 0.″29 (39 au) and deceleration outward is detected. The deprojected jet speed is subject to uncertainties in the jet inclination, but values ≳200 km s−1 are likely. The mass-loss rate in the blueshifted jet is at least

M

˙

jet
,
blue

=
2.3
×

10

−
9

M
⊙ yr−1, consistent with optical determinations. We use the HST data along with optically determined jet morphology to place meaningful constraints on candidate jet-heating models including a hot-launch model in which the jet is heated near the base to X-ray temperatures by an unspecified (but probably magnetic) process, and downstream heating from shocks or a putative jet magnetic field.
Herschel Spectroscopy of the Taffy Galaxies (UGC 12914/12915 = VV 254): Enhanced [C ii] Emission in the Collisionally Formed Bridge
Authors: Peterson B. W. , Appleton P. N. , Bitsakis T. , Guillard P. , Alatalo K. , Boulanger F. , Cluver M. , Duc P.-A. , Falgarone E. , Gallagher S. , Gao Y. , Helou G. , Jarrett T. H. , Joshi B. , Lisenfeld U. , Lu N. , Ogle P. , Pineau des Forêts G. , van der Werf P. , Xu C. K.
Published: March 2018

Using the PACS and SPIRE spectrometers on board Herschel, we obtained observations of the Taffy galaxies (UGC 12914/12915) and bridge. The Taffy system is believed to be the result of a face-on collision between two gas-rich galaxies, in which the stellar disks passed through each other, but the gas was dispersed into a massive H i and molecular bridge between them. Emission is detected and mapped in both galaxies and the bridge in the [C ii]157.7 μm and [O i]63.2 μm fine-structure lines. Additionally, SPIRE FTS spectroscopy detects the [C i]

and [C i]

neutral carbon lines, and weakly detects high-J CO transitions in the bridge. These results indicate that the bridge is composed of a warm multi-phase medium consistent with shock and turbulent heating. Despite low star formation rates in the bridge, the [C ii] emission appears to be enhanced, reaching [C ii]/FIR ratios of 3.3% in parts of the bridge. Both the [C ii] and [O i] lines show broad intrinsic multi-component profiles, similar to those seen in previous CO (1–0) and H i observations. The [C ii] emission shares similar line profiles with both the double-peaked H i profiles and shares a high-velocity component with single-peaked CO profiles in the bridge, suggesting that the [C ii] emission originates in both the neutral and molecular phases. We show that it is feasible that a combination of turbulently heated H2 and high column-density H i, resulting from the galaxy collision, is responsible for the enhanced [C ii] emission.
Survey of Astrophysical Conditions in Neutrino-driven Supernova Ejecta Nucleosynthesis
Authors: Bliss J. , Witt M. , Arcones A. , Montes F. , Pereira J.
Published: March 2018

Core-collapse supernovae produce elements between Fe and Ag depending on the properties of the ejected matter. Despite the fast progress in supernova simulations in the last decades, there are still uncertainties in the astrophysical conditions. In this paper, we investigate the impact of astrophysical uncertainties on the nucleosynthesis. Since a systematic study based on trajectories from hydrodynamic simulations is computationally very expensive, we rely on a steady-state model. By varying the mass and radius of the proto-neutron star as well as the electron fraction in the steady-state model, we cover a wide range of astrophysical conditions. In our study, we find four abundance patterns that can be formed in neutron-rich neutrino-driven ejecta. This provides a unique template of trajectories that can be used to investigate the impact of nuclear physics input on the nucleosynthesis for representative astrophysical conditions. Furthermore, we link these four patterns to the neutron-to-seed and alpha-to-seed ratios at T = 3 GK. Therefore, our results give a good overview of the potential nucleosynthesis evolution that can occur in a supernova simulation.
Metabolic Profiles in Obese Children and Adolescents with Insulin Resistance
Authors: Kostovski Marko , Simeonovski Viktor , Mironska Kristina , Tasic Velibor , Gucev Zoran
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND: In the past several decades, the increasing frequency of overweight and obese children and adolescents in the world has become a public health problem. It has contributed significantly to the already high tide of diabetes, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.AIM: To investigate the frequency of insulin resistance and to evaluate the metabolic profile of insulin resistant and non-insulin resistant obese children and adolescents.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study included 96 (45 boys, 51 girls) obese children and adolescents aged     4-17 years old (10.50 ± 2.87 years). Only participants with Body Mass Index ≥ 95 percentile were included.  We analysed sera for fasting insulin levels (FI), fasting serum triglycerides (TG), total serum cholesterol (TC), fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and plasma glucose 2 hours after the performance of the oral glucose tolerance test        (2-h G). Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index was calculated as fasting insulin concentration (microunits per millilitre) x fasting glucose concentration (millimolar)/22.5. The value of HOMA-IR above 3.16 was used as a cut-off value for both genders.RESULTS: Insulin resistance was determined in 58.33% of study participants. Insulin resistant participants had significantly higher level of 2-h G (p = 0.02), FI level (p = 0.000) as well as TG levels (p = 0.01), compared to non-insulin resistant group. Strikingly, 70.73% of the pubertal adolescents were insulin resistant in comparison to 49.09% of the preadolescents (p = 0.03). Significantly higher percentage of insulin-resistant participants were girls (p = 0.009). Moreover, a higher percentage of the girls (70.59%) than boys (44.44%) had HOMA-IR above 3.16 and had elevated FI levels (70.59% vs 48.89%). The difference in the frequency of insulin resistance among obese versus severely obese children and adolescents was not significant (p = 0.73, p > 0.05). Our study results also showed positive, but weak, correlation of HOMA-IR with age, FPG, TG and BMI of the participants (p < 0.05).CONCLUSION: Higher percentage of insulin-resistant participants was of female gender and was adolescents. In general, insulin resistant obese children and adolescents tend to have a worse metabolic profile in comparison to individuals without insulin resistance. It is of note that the highest insulin resistance was also linked with the highest concentrations of triglycerides.
Knowledge and Awareness of Medical Practitioners of Jazan City towards Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery as a Specialty
Authors: Ali Fareedi Mukram , Al-Irany Ghassan M. , Namis Sultan Mohammed , Heezam Asma Ali , Swaid Salma Abdu , Alomar Anas Esam
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND: In many health services communities the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) as a discipline is frequently not probably understood. Good awareness towards OMFS among different branches of health services providers is essential for better referral strategies and will be for the benefit of the patient. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The cross-sectional study was done using a specially prepared questionnaire distributed randomly to 125 general medical practitioners working in Jazan province. In this questionnaire, there were also some close-ended questions to evaluate awareness regarding a variety of conditions treated by the oral and maxillofacial surgeons.RESULTS: Out of 125 participants, 105 (84%) were aware of the oral and maxillofacial surgery as a speciality branch of dentistry. Only 52 (41.6%) participants were aware of the different treatment modalities coming under the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Also in the referral of cases to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, 50 (40%) participants referred their oral and maxillofacial region cases to OMS. Tooth removal was the only procedure where most of the medical practitioners knew it is a speciality procedure of the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. For facial fractures, 76 medical practitioners believe it comes under the scope of the orthopaedic surgeon. Similarly, for facial abscesses, 81 and 36 practitioners responded that it is a job of a general surgeon and OMS respectively.CONCLUSION: There is low awareness toward the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery in the medical community. Knowledge and awareness of the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery can improve the success and promptness of delivery of health services.
Rathke's Cleft Cyst or Pituitary Apoplexy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Shatri Jeton , Ahmetgjekaj Ilir
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND: During the examination of the sellar region by magnetic resonance imaging, hyperintensity in T1 weighted is a common finding. This signal intensity has different sources, and its significance depends on the clinical context. Pathologic variations in T1 signal hyperintensity may be related to clotting of blood (pituitary apoplexy) or the presence of a high concentration of protein (Rathke cleft cyst). The purpose of this study is to describe the significance of intracystic nodule, a diagnostic characteristic found in Rathke's cleft cyst, on MRI.CASE REPORT: We will present the case of a 20–year-old girl which referral to our hospital for head examination with magnetic resonance imaging because she has a post-traumatic headache. Pathological findings presented in T1-weighted hyperintensity intrasellar which persist even in T1 weighted-Fat suppression. These changes signal the presence of methemoglobin imposes. The patient is a referral to laboratory tests which result in rate except for slight value increase of prolactin. Recommended controller examination after a month but finding the same results which exclude the presence of methemoglobin.CONCLUSION: Morphological characteristics and signal intensity can impose the presence of high concentration of protein (Rathke cleft cyst).
Surgical Management of Facial Features of Robinow Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Mossaad Aida M. , Abdelrahman Moustapha A. , Ibrahim Mostafa A. , Al Ahmady Hatem H.
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND: Robinow Syndrome is an extremely rare genetic disorder characterised by abnormalities in head, face and external genitalia. This disorder exists in dominant pattern with moderate symptoms and recessive pattern with more physical and skeletal abnormalities. It was first introduced by Menihard Robinow in 1969. It was related to chromosome 9q22 ROR2 gene related to bone and cartilage growth aspects.CASE PRESENTATION: A 17-year-old Egyptian male presented to National Research Centre Orodental genetics Clinic with typical features of short stature and facial dysmorphism weighted 50 Kg and measured 150 cm height complaining of facial disfigurement. There was no significant prenatal history, and family history was negative for congenital disabilities and genetic disorders. Clinical examination revealed macrocephaly and special facial features as prominent forehead, deformed ear pinna, hypertelorism, flat nasal tongue tie, deficient malar bone, bow-shaped upper and lower lips and dimpled chin. Orally the patient suffered from tonetie, gingival hypertrophy and dental malalignment. The orthopantomogram showed multiple impacted teeth. The physical examination revealed that the patient had deformed spine, short limbs with ectrodactyly, micropenis & hypospadias. Surgical management included correction of midface deficiency with zygomatic augmentation, closed rhinoplasty for the broad nose, lips muscles release and tongue tie relief. The patient is currently undergoing orthodontic treatment for his teeth.CONCLUSION: Improvement of facial features and a good psychological impact on the patient and his family.
Prevalence of Plaque-Induced Gingivitis in a Sample of the Adult Egyptian Population
Authors: Mostafa Basma , El-Refai Ibrahim
Published: March 2018

AIM: The aim of this cross-sectional study is recording the prevalence and evaluation of the severity of plaque-induced gingival inflammation among a sample of the adult Egyptian population.PATIENTS AND METHODS: Four hundred and twenty-five subjects in this contemplate were seen from patients visiting the diagnostic clinic at the Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University. The gingival and plaque indices for each patient diagnosed as having plaque-induced gingivitis were recorded. The pocket depth was also measured.RESULTS: The incidence of gingivitis was 100% amid adult subjects with an age range between 18-45 years. The average plaque index (PI) was 1.05 ± 0.43, which reflects relatively superior plaque control of the participants. The mean gingival index (GI) was 1.66 ± 0.40, which reflects the presence of moderate gingival inflammation. PD mean values confirmed limitation of inflammation to the gingiva. The sex was correlated to the condition of the inflamed gingiva (p = 0.014) and the quantity of biofilm build-up (p = 0.003). Females were less affected than males (p = 0.005).CONCLUSION: The outcomes of this contemplate demonstrated that biofilm build-up is stoutly accompanied with elevated incidence of modest to rigorous gingivitis amid adult Egyptian individuals.
The Outcome of Using a Jamshidi Biopsy Trocar Needle in a Novel Technique for Bone Grafting in Percutaneous Internal Fixation of Scaphoid Non-Union
Authors: Bokhari Syed , Hadi Saifullah , Hossain Fahad , Ketzer Bernd
Published: March 2018

INTRODUCTION: We report the outcome of using a novel technique of minimally invasive internal fixation and distal radius bone grafting using the Jamishidi Trephine needle and biopsy/graft capture device.METHODS: The technique utilises a 8 mm incision at the distal pole of the scaphoid. The non-union is excavated using the standard Acutrak drill. An 8 gauge Jamshidi trephine needle is used to harvest bone graft from the distal radius which is impacted into the scaphoid and fixed with an Acutrak screw. Fifteen patients were available for retrospective review, 14 male, age mean 29.5 (15-56). Average time from injury to surgery was 167 days (45-72). Fractures classified according to Herbert giving 7 D1 and 8 D2 fractures, 14 waist and 1 proximal pole fractures, all of which had no humpback deformity.RESULTS: Sixty-six percentages of the fractures went onto unite, 4/7 D1 and 6/8 D2 united (p > 0.05). Seventy-five percentages of fracture that had surgery in less than 3 months from time of injury went onto unite, whereas only 63% united in patients who had surgery later than 3 months (p > 0.05). DASH outcome for all patients improved from 86 down to 32 (p < 0.05). With those that united going down from 90 to 6. Those that did not unite went from 81 to 61.CONCLUSION: The Jamshidi bone grafting technique shows comparable results (union rate 66%) to other techniques published in the literature (27-100%) providing the surgeon with an alternative and less demanding procedure than open scaphoid non-union surgery.
Proton Pump Inhibitors Intake and Iron and Vitamin B12 Status: A Prospective Comparative Study with a Follow up of 12 Months
Authors: Qorraj-Bytyqi Hasime , Hoxha Rexhep , Sadiku Shemsedin , Bajraktari Ismet H. , Sopjani Mentor , Thaçi Kujtim , Thaçi Shpetim , Bahtiri Elton
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) represent the most widely prescribed antisecretory agents, but their prolonged use, may influence iron and vitamin B12 status, which could have important implications for clinical practice.AIM: We undertook this study aiming to investigate the association between PPIs use for 12 months and potential changes in iron and vitamin B12 status, as well as whether this potential association varies among four specific PPI drugs used in the study.METHODS: A total of 250 adult subjects were recruited into this study, of which 200 subjects were PPIs users while 50 subjects belonged to the control group. Serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, and homocysteine (Hcy) levels were measured before the start of the study and after 12 months. Mann - Whitney U test and Kruskal - Wallis test was used to compare the baseline characteristics of the study groups, while Wilcoxon test was used to analyse post - pre differences.RESULTS: Statistical analysis showed significant changes within PPIs group and specific PPIs subgroups between the two-time points in serum ferritin and vitamin B12 levels, respectively, while no significant changes in serum iron and homocysteine levels were shown. However, subsequent diagnosis of hypoferremia and hypovitaminosis B12 in the whole study sample at 12 months was established in only 3.8% and 2.9% of the subjects, respectively.CONCLUSION: PPIs use for 12 months did not result in clinically significant iron and/or vitamin B12 deficiency; thus, these findings argue routine screening under normal circumstances, although monitoring in elderly and malnourished may be of precious value.
Acid Etching as Surface Treatment Method for Luting of Glass-Ceramic Restorations, part 1: Acids, Application Protocol and Etching Effectiveness
Authors: Barjaktarova-Valjakova Emilija , Grozdanov Anita , Guguvcevski Ljuben , Korunoska-Stevkovska Vesna , Kapusevska Biljana , Gigovski Nikola , Mijoska Aneta , Bajraktarova-Misevska Cvetanka
Published: March 2018

AIM: The purpose of this review is to represent acids that can be used as surface etchant before adhesive luting of ceramic restorations, placement of orthodontic brackets or repair of chipped porcelain restorations. Chemical reactions, application protocol, and etching effect are presented as well.STUDY SELECTION: Available scientific articles published in PubMed and Scopus literature databases, scientific reports and manufacturers' instructions and product information from internet websites, written in English, using following search terms: “acid etching, ceramic surface treatment, hydrofluoric acid, acidulated phosphate fluoride, ammonium hydrogen bifluoride”, have been reviewed.RESULTS: There are several acids with fluoride ion in their composition that can be used as ceramic surface etchants. The etching effect depends on the acid type and its concentration, etching time, as well as ceramic type. The most effective etching pattern is achieved when using hydrofluoric acid; the numerous micropores and channels of different sizes, honeycomb-like appearance, extruded crystals or scattered irregular ceramic particles, depending on the ceramic type, have been detected on the etched surfaces.CONCLUSION: Acid etching of the bonding surface of glass - ceramic restorations is considered as the most effective treatment method that provides a reliable bond with composite cement. Selective removing of the glassy matrix of silicate ceramics results in a micromorphological three-dimensional porous surface that allows micromechanical interlocking of the luting composite.
The genus Paleosepharia Laboissière, 1936 in Taiwan: review and nomenclatural changes (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae)
Authors: Lee Chi-Feng
Published: March 2018

Taxonomic study of species of the genusMonoleptaChevrolat, 1836 with subscutellar incised ridges in males and occurring in Taiwan resulted in the transfer of all species toPaleosephariaLaboissière, 1936:P.amiana(Chûjô, 1962),comb. n.,P.formosana(Chûjô, 1935),comb. n.,P.nantouensis(Kimoto, 1996)comb. n., andP.yasumatsui(Kimoto, 1969),comb. n.The position ofM.excavataChûjô, 1938 inPaleosephariais confirmed. Lectotypes are designated forM.excavataChûjô, 1938 andM.formosanaChûjô, 1935. Generic characters ofPaleosephariaare re-evaluated in the context of these nomenclatural changes.

Food plants, leaf beetles, new combination, taxonomic revision
First record of Arthromelodes Jeannel in China, with description of a new species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
Authors: Yin Zi-Wei
Published: March 2018

A new species ofArthromelodesJeannel,A.chouisp. n., is described from northern Taitung, Taiwan, representing the first record of the genus in China. The species is distinctive, and may be readily separated from its congeners by the unique structures of male tergite 1(IV), and the aedeagus.
Perspectives on blended learning through the on-line platform, LabLessons, for Chemistry
Authors: Jihad Teeba , Klementowicz Edward , Gryczka Patrick , Sharrock Chappel , Maxfield Macrae , Lee Yougjun , Kim Montclare Jin
Published: March 2018

The effectiveness of blended learning was evaluated through the integration of an online chemistry platform, LabLessons. Two modules, Titration and Formation of Hydrogen, were designed by college mentors alongside classroom chemistry teachers to engage and allow high school students to better comprehend these scientific topics.  The pre-lab modules introduced the students to experiments they were expected to perform in class the following day. The modules consisted of an introduction as well as either a visualization and/or simulation specific to each topic. Students and teachers who utilized LabLessons were surveyed to establish a preliminary research on the use of technology in classrooms. Student and teacher surveys demonstrated LabLessons to be an interactive and helpful tool to improve students’ understanding of conceptual ideas.
Contextualizing technology in the classroom via remote access: Using space exploration themes and scanning electron microscopy as tools to promote engagement in multidisciplinary geology/chemistry experiments
Authors: Rodriguez Brandon , Jaramillo Veronica , Wolf Vanessa , Bautista Esteban , Portillo Jennifer , Brouke Alexandra , Min Ashley , Melendez Andrea , Amann Joseph , Pena-Francesch Abdon , Ashcroft Jared
Published: March 2018

A multidisciplinary science experiment was performed in K-12 classrooms focusing on the interconnection of technology with geology and chemistry. The engagement and passion for science of over eight hundred students across twenty-one classrooms, utilizing a combination of hands-on activities to study the relationships between Earth and space rock studies, followed by a remote access session wherein students remotely employed the use of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) to validate their findings was investigated. Participants were from predominantly low-income minority communities, with little exposure to the themes and equipment used, despite being freely available resources.  Students indicated greatly increased interest in scientific practices and careers, as well as a better grasp of the content as a result of the lab and remote access coupling format.
"Controversies in digital ethics," edited by Amber Davisson and Paul Booth
Authors: Kustritz Anne
Published: March 2018

Book review of Amber Davisson and Paul Booth. Controversies in Digital Ethics. New York, NY: Bloomsbury, 2016. $130.00 (392p) ISBN 978-1-50131-056-0.
Interview with Flourish Klink
Authors: Editor TWC
Published: March 2018

Interview with Flourish Klink of Chaotic Good Studios.
La polysémie poétique d’anabase chez Saint-John Perse : évocations, étymologie et botanique
Authors: Peigney Jocelyne
Published: March 2018

Quand le nom « anabase », emprunt savant au grec, est d’un usage rare dans la langue littéraire, Saint-John Perse peut donner l’exemple de la création d’une polysémie qui croise les cheminements linguistiques, la documentation botanique et l’évocation poétique. Titre et hapax, si l’on accepte d’y voir les superpositions auxquelles invite l’écriture de Saint-John Perse, le mot devient annonce de l’aventure de l’œuvre et illustration multiple du monde qu’elle constitue.
Les références antiques des fondateurs de l’Amérique française au XVIIe siècle
Authors: Faelli Nicolas
Published: March 2018

Les balbutiements du colonialisme français en Amérique du nord coïncidèrent avec une redécouverte de sources littéraires antiques, notamment Homère ou Virgile. Cette littérature servit d’inspiration aux premiers explorateurs, laïcs ou religieux, pour décrire et justifier leurs conquêtes. Ces courants de pensée apportèrent également un regard innovant sur la colonisation comme phénomène, en envisageant ces épopées antiques comme des témoignages d’une entreprise coloniale en devenir.
Setting the stage for Hittite studies in Victorian England: practices and methods of the 1870 s
Authors: Alaura Silvia
Published: March 2018

Durant les années 1870, on voit émerger en Angleterre des travaux portant sur les monuments de Syrie et d’Anatolie portant des inscriptions que l’on appelle alors Luwian or Anatolian Hieroglyphic. C’est l’époque des premières tentatives de déchiffrement de ces inscriptions, sous l’impulsion de G. Smith et A.H. Sayce. Par ailleurs, W. Wright et A.H. Sayce attribuent ces monuments aux Hittites. Le débat se développe au sein de diverses sociétés savantes, comme le British Museum, mais aussi plusieurs clubs, avec un mélange de coopération et de rivalité entre les principaux chercheurs. Le présent article propose la première vue d’ensemble d’une recherche en cours au départ d’archives inédites conservées à Londres, Cambridge et Oxford.
Les archives des fouilles d’Herculanum au XXe siècle : analyse critique et pistes d’exploitation*
Authors: Monteix Nicolas
Published: March 2018

On a longtemps considéré que toutes les informations nécessaires à la compréhension d’Herculanum se trouvaient rassemblées dans le volume publié en 1958 par A. Maiuri, principal fouilleur du site, Ercolano. I nuovi scavi. Pourtant, et bien que ce livre reste une étape majeure pour la perception du site et du résultat des fouilles, de nombreux détails restent dans l’ombre. Une première explication tient à la non-publication du second volume. Toutefois, la raison majeure tient à ce qu’A. Maiuri ne pouvait pas être présent en permanence sur le site pendant les travaux de dégagement. On trouve donc des informations plus précises et plus nombreuses dans les comptes rendus quotidiens rédigés au fur et à mesure de la fouille. Cet article vise à donner une première vision des archives créées lors de la fouille d’Herculanum, tout en les soumettant à une critique externe, de façon à pouvoir les exploiter au mieux pour retracer la redécouverte du site au xxe siècle.
Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun Polysulfone (PSF)/Organo-Montmorillonite (O-MMT) Nanostructured Membranes
Authors: Aquino Ruth R. , Tolentino Marvin S. , Angeles Joren V. , Azelle Millano Hershey
Published: March 2018

Polymeric membranes infused with clays have attracted researchers for it poses a great potential in water treatment applications. In this study, polysulfone (PSF) has been infused with organo-montmorillonite (O-MMT) clay to fabricate membranes through electrospinning and were subjected into different characterizations to find out the effect of adding the clay to the polymer.Four sampleswith different amounts of O-MMT have been fabricated (Pure PSF, 1% O-MMT, 3% O-MMT and 5% O-MMT). The fiber morphology, fiber diameter,surface chemical composition, hydrophobicity, and mechanical properties of these samples were studied. Preliminary investigationhas revealed that shallow pores and smaller fiber diameter were formed with increasing O-MMT concentration. Molecular interaction between the PSF and O-MMT was also revealed through the FT-IR analysis. With regards to contact angle, there are no significant differences between the measurements for each PSF/O-MMT blend. Improvements in the mechanical properties of the samples were also observed as the O-MMT concentration increases.
Analysis of Dendrite Images Formed by Electrochemical Migration in a Semiconductor Sensor
Authors: Mena Manolo G.
Published: March 2018

Dendrites were observed in the failure of semiconductor sensor devices. EDX analysis showed that the dendrites grown from bare sensor dice consisted of tin metal. The tin dendrites exhibited massive and dense branches. Dendrites grown from mechanically decapped parts consisted of silver. The silver dendrites exhibited delicate, lace-like structure. Binary and grey scale images of dendrites were analyzed for fractal dimension number and branch density. The tin dendrites had a higher, statistically significant branch density number than silver, due to tin’s more intricate branching pattern. Fractal numbers can be used to differentiate between tin and silver dendrites, even in the absence of EDX analysis equipment.
Effect of Concentration on the Ionic Interaction between Polystyrene Sulfonate and Cationic Surfactant in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Haryono Agus , Ghozali Muhammad , Harmami Sri Budi , Meliana Yenny
Published: March 2018

Polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) were prepared by sulfonation method of polystyrene using sulfuric acid. Abundant amount of polystyrene waste can be reused as a coagulant, membrane for polymer fuel cell and anionic-cationic polymer interactions. The characterization of PSS was carried out by using UV-Vis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra, molecular weight and analysis of sulfonation degree. The degree of sulfonation was obtained at 94,18%. Ionic interaction between anionic polymer PSS and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as cationic compound in aqueous solution were analyzed by using dynamic light scattering (DLS), conductometry and fluorimetry. Behavior of conductivity have been calculated the critical micelle concentration (cmc). The FTIR and 1H-NMR spectra showed the ionic interaction between PSS and CTAB. This ionic interaction can be controlled by changing the polymer concentration.
Curcumin Suppresses IL-1β Secretion and Prevents Inflammation through Inhibition of the NLRP3 Inflammasome
Authors: Yin Haipeng , Guo Qiang , Li Xin , Tang Tiantian , Li Cuiling , Wang Hengxiao , Sun Yuanxin , Feng Qi , Ma Chunhong , Gao Chengjiang , Yi Fan , Peng Jun
Published: March 2018

Turmeric is traditionally used as a spice and coloring in foods. Curcumin is the primary active ingredient in the turmeric, and compelling evidence has shown that it has the ability to inhibit inflammation. However, the mechanism mediating its anti-inflammatory effects are not fully understood. We report that curcumin inhibited caspase-1 activation and IL-1β secretion through suppressing LPS priming and the inflammasome activation pathway in mouse bone marrow–derived macrophages. The inhibitory effect of curcumin on inflammasome activation was specific to the NLRP3, not to the NLRC4 or the AIM2 inflammasomes. Curcumin inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome by preventing K+ efflux and disturbing the downstream events, including the efficient spatial arrangement of mitochondria, ASC oligomerization, and speckle formation. Reactive oxygen species, autophagy, sirtuin-2, or acetylated α-tubulin was ruled out as the mechanism by which curcumin inhibits the inflammasome. Importantly, in vivo data show that curcumin attenuated IL-1β secretion and prevented high-fat diet–induced insulin resistance in wide-type C57BL/6 mice but not in Nlrp3-deficient mice. Curcumin also repressed monosodium urate crystal–induced peritoneal inflammation in vivo. Taken together, we identified curcumin as a common NLRP3 inflammasome activation inhibitor. Our findings reveal a mechanism through which curcumin represses inflammation and suggest the potential clinical use of curcumin in NLRP3-driven diseases.
Effect of At-home and In-office Bleaching on Marginal Microleakage in Composite Resin Restorations using Two Adhesive Systems
Authors: Klein Celso A , da Silva Douglas , Reston Eduardo G , Borghetti Diana LB , Zimmer Roberto
Published: March 2018

Aim

The aim of this study is to assess marginal microleakage of cervical cavities restored with composite resins and two different adhesive techniques subjected to at-home and in-office bleaching.

Materials and methods

In this randomized, blind laboratory experiment, 60 bovine teeth recently extracted were collected and divided into six groups (n = 10 each group). The teeth received cervical cavity preparations (2 mm × 3 mm × 1 mm) with enamel margins. Two different adhesive systems were used (Single Bond 2 and Clearfil SE Bond), in addition to composite resin (Z250). Restored teeth received two different bleaching gels (Opalescence PF and Opalescence Boost). Teeth were thermocycled and analyzed under confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Results

No significant differences were observed (p > 0.05) in microleakage scores between the two groups not subjected to bleaching nor between the four groups that received bleaching treatment (p > 0.05), regardless of the gel and adhesive system employed. However, when comparing nonbleached with bleached teeth, those not subjected to bleaching showed statistically lower marginal microleakage scores (p < 0.05). Data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Student–Newman–Keuls post hoc test, with significance set at 5%.

Conclusion

Marginal microleakage in composite resin restorations is influenced by the action of bleaching agents used both at-home and in-office, regardless of the adhesive system employed (total-etch or self-etch).

Clinical significance

Both at-home and in-office bleaching agents have an influence on the adhesive interface of resin restorations, producing changes and inducing marginal leakage.

How to cite this article

Klein Jr CA, da Silva D, Reston EG, Borghetti DLB, Zimmer R. Effect of At-home and In-office Bleaching on Marginal Microleakage in Composite Resin Restorations using Two Adhesive Systems. J Contemp Dent Pract 2018;19(3):248-252.
Awareness of Biomedical Waste Management among Dentists associated with Institutions and Private Practitioners of North India: A Comparative Study
Authors: Dash Kailash C , Panda Abikshyeet , Bhuyan Lipsa , Raghuvanshi Malvika , Sinha Shruti , Mohiddin Gouse
Published: March 2018

Aim

The present study aimed to obtain information about knowledge, execution, and attitude toward biomedical waste (BMW) and its management.

Materials and methods

In the present study, a self-administered closed-ended questionnaire was designed to conduct a cross-sectional survey. It was distributed among 614 dentists (institution associated or private practitioners) in the cities of North India. The questionnaire comprised 36 questions regarding knowledge, execution, and attitude toward BMW and its management. Frequency distribution and chi-square test along with paired t-test were used to compare the data obtained between the private practitioners and institution-associated dentists.

Results

The study showed that 80% private practitioners were aware of the categories of BMW as compared with 100% of institution-associated dentists. However, 41% dentists associated with institution were disposing the chemical waste directly into sewer and a surprising high number of private practitioners were discarding directly without any treatment. Furthermore, regarding the mandatory maintenance of BMW records, 100% institution-associated respondents were aware, whereas only 6.5% private practitioners knew about it. Regarding BMW management not frequently being followed, 78% of private practitioners believed extra burden as the reason.

Conclusion

Most of the dentists had adequate knowledge regarding BMW policies and its management. Although it was being practiced in mostly all the institutes on a regular basis, the majority of private practitioners were not practicing it due to various reasons, such as financial burden, lack of availability of service, and poor attitude toward its management.

Clinical significance

There is a need to make it compulsory and organize training sessions to educate the dental personnel and to establish the importance of proper management.

How to cite this article

Raghuvanshi M, Sinha S, Mohiddin G, Panda A, Dash KC, Bhuyan L. Awareness of Biomedical Waste Management among Dentists associated with Institutions and Private Practitioners of North India: A Comparative Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2018;19(3):273-277.
Evaluation of the Effects of Fluoride Prophylactic Agents on Mechanical Properties of Nickel Titanium Wires using Scanning Electron Microscope
Authors: Gupta Deepika , Gupta Amit K , Gupta Ajay K , Shukla Gita
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Orthodontic treatment these days is increasing in demand, and therefore, it is relatively imperative for the orthodontist to prescribe the use of fluoride-containing products, such as mouthwashes and gels, to help prevent dental caries and maintain healthy oral health. The aim of the study was to assess and evaluate the effects of fluoride prophylactic agents on mechanical properties of nickel titanium (NiTi) wires during orthodontic treatment using scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Materials and methods

We used the commercially available round preformed NiTi orthodontic archwire (3M company) and three different mouthwash solutions, i.e., Phos-Flur gel (1.1% sodium acidulated phosphate fluoride, APF, 0.5% w/v fluoride, pH = 5.1; Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals) and Prevident 5000 (1.1% sodium fluoride neutral agent, 0.5% w/v fluoride, pH = 7; Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals). All the specimens were subjected to a three-point bending test on a universal testing machine. To observe the surface morphological changes, one wire from each group was randomly selected and observed under a SEM.

Results

It was observed that there was not much difference in the values of both modulus of elasticity and yield strength obtained after loading of stress on the wires in all the three experimental conditions. A significant difference in both modulus of elasticity and yield strength was observed during unloading of stress. Further, when the surface characteristics were observed for all the specimens using SEM images, it was observed that NiTi wires treated with Phos-Flur showed large surface defects which appeared as round, pitted areas depicting corrosion, numerous white inclusions, and overall damaged surface structure of the wire as compared with the control.

Conclusion

Thus, fluoridated mouthwashes are essential to maintain good oral hygiene and decrease instance of caries in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. The prophylactic usage of topical fluoride agents on NiTi wire seems to diminish the mechanical properties of the orthodontic wire that could significantly affect future treatment outcomes.

Clinical significance

It has been proved that fluoride mouthwashes/gels do affect the structural surface qualities and strength of wires used during the orthodontic treatment irrespective of the composition of the wires. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the clinician to prescribe these prophylactic agents carefully while keeping in mind their pH so that the overall result of the treatment may not be hampered and delayed due to change in properties of the wires used.

How to cite this article

Gupta AK, Shukla G, Sharma P, Gupta AK, Kumar A, Gupta D. Evaluation of the Effects of Fluoride Prophylactic Agents on Mechanical Properties of Nickel Titanium Wires using Scanning Electron Microscope. J Contemp Dent Pract 2018;19(3):283-286.
Assessment of Lipid Peroxidation Levels and Total Antioxidant Status in Chronic and Aggressive Periodontitis Patients: An in vivo Study
Authors: Verma Ashish , Tripathi Vivek , Singh Sahib T , Singh Chetan D , Gill Jaspreet S
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Periodontitis is a common problem affecting a significant population of the world. For the assessment of oxidative stress of an individual, total oxidation status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) are the significant biomarkers. Hence, we planned the present study to assess malondialdehyde (MDA), TOS, TAOC levels, and oxidative stress index (OSI) in generalized aggressive periodontitis (GP) and chronic periodontitis (CP) patients.

Materials and methods

The present study included assessment of 40 CP patients, 40 GP patients, and 40 healthy controls. Clinical assessment of all the subjects was done by measuring the probing depth (PD), clinical attachment (CL), gingival index (GI), gingival bleeding index (GBI), and plaque index (PI). Salivary and serum samples were taken and assessed by standard procedures as described previously in the literature. All the values were assessed and compared.

Results

Significant results were obtained while comparing all the periodontal parameters in between various study groups. Mean serum MDA levels in the CP, GP, and control group were found to be 0.68, 0.65, and 0.61 µM respectively. Statistically nonsignificant results were obtained while comparing the serum MDA levels in between the three study groups. Significant results were obtained while comparing the mean serum and salivary TOS values, TAOC values, and OSI in between various study groups.

Conclusion

In periodontitis patients, oxidative stress was significantly higher in comparison with healthy subjects.

Clinical significance

Oxidative parameters do play a significant role in the pathologic profile of periodontitis.

How to cite this article

Tripathi V, Singh ST, Sharma V, Verma A, Singh CD, Gill JS. Assessment of Lipid Peroxidation Levels and Total Antioxidant Status in Chronic and Aggressive Periodontitis Patients: An in vivo Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2018;19(3):287-291.
Radiographic Assessment of Anatomy of Nasopalatine Canal for Dental Implant Placement: A Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Study
Authors: Tatuskar Pramod , Rao Jaligama B , Pulla Ashwini , Patil Swati C , Tiwari Ila
Published: March 2018

Aim

The aim of this study is to assess the morphology of nasopalatine canal (NPC) with cone beam computed tomo-graphy (CBCT).

Materials and methods

A total of 460 subjects of both genders were subjected to CBCT with NewTom machine, and sagittal and coronal sections were used for evaluation of the shape of NPC and width of buccal cortical plate. Types of NPC were also assessed.

Results

Of 460 subjects, males were 210 and females were 250. The difference was nonsignificant (p = 0.1). Type III canals were mostly seen in both males and females, followed by types I and II. The mean length of NPC in males and females showed statistical significant difference (p < 0.05). Males showed significantly higher diameter of nasal opening, oral opening, and width of the buccal bone plate over the oral opening as compared with females.

Conclusion

The exact location, morphology, and dimensions of NPC can be well visualized with CBCT. All findings were higher in males as compared with females.

Clinical significance

The success of dental implant in maxillary anterior region may be affected by the approximation with NPC. The exact location and morphology play an important role for the correct placement of implant. Cone beam computed tomography is a useful tool providing three-dimensional images in all sections.

How to cite this article

Rao JB, Tatuskar P, Pulla A, Kumar N, Patil SC, Tiwari I. Radiographic Assessment of Anatomy of Nasopalatine Canal for Dental Implant Placement: A Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2018;19(3):301-305.