bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Object Recognition in a Natural Image
Authors: Aryal Jagannath , Josselin Didier
Published: July 2014

Natural images, which are filled with intriguing stimuli of spatial objects, represent our cognition and are rich in spatial information. Accurate extraction of spatial objects is challenging due to the associated spatial and spectral complexities in object recognition. In this paper, the authors tackle the problem of spatial object extraction in a GEOgraphic Object Based Image Analysis framework taking psychological and mathematical complexities into account. In doing so, the authors experimented with human and GEOBIA based recognition and segmentation in an image of an area of natural importance, the Ventoux Mountain, France. Focus was given to scales, color, and texture properties at multiple levels in delineating the candidate spatial objects from the natural image. Such objects along with the original image were provided to the human subjects in two stages and three different groups of samples. The results of two stages were collated and analyzed. The analysis showed that there exist different ways to comprehend the geographical objects according to priori knowledge.
Structural Analysis of Cloud Classifier
Authors: Kundu Anirban , Xu Guanxiong , Ji Chunlin
Published: July 2014

In this paper, structural analysis of Cloud classifier is going to be discussed to make a clear distinction between linear and non-linear Cloud structures. Cloud manager is responsible for managing different activities within Cloud using distinct fields. Cloud path protocol has been defined to disseminate information from one node to another in a efficient way. Broadcasting complexities of linear and non-linear Cloud are also being projected in this paper. Mathematical expressions have been established for defining different performance factors of the Cloud network. In practical scenario, non-linear Cloud structure is more relevant than a linear Cloud structure.
Brain-Computer Interface for Cyberpsychology
Authors: Lu Junshi , Peng Yujia
Published: July 2014

As a new way of implementing human-computer interface, brain-computer interfaces (BCI) dramatically change the user experiences and have broad applications in cyber behavior research. This methodological review attempts to provide an overall picture of the BCI science and its role in cyberpsychology. After an introduction of BCI and the literature search methods used in this review, we offer an overview of terms, history, components, methods and signals used in BCI. Different applications of BCI on both the clinical population and the healthy population are summarized in detail, with a conclusion of the future directions of BCI.
Exploring the Relationship Between Mode of Operation and Performance of Support Teams in Telecommunication Companies
Authors: Saafein Oussama
Published: July 2014

Whereas previous studies have attempted to investigate the correlation between mode of operation (virtual versus face-to-face) and team performance, these studies have been primarily focused on project management and distance learning. However, few studies, if any, have addressed the performance of virtual teams carrying complex technical support tasks in telecommunication companies. The primary proposition of the study that there is a relationship between team performance (comprised of three factors, namely, goals achievement, customer satisfaction, and team health) and the mode of operation was tested. A secondary proposition that team size has a significant effect on the relationship between the mode of operation and support team performance was tested also. One hundred twenty support professionals working for telecommunication companies based in California's Silicon Valley completed web-based surveys, which offered data on support operations in virtual and face-to-face settings and assessment of teams' performance in each setting. Whereas the findings indicated correlations between the mode of operation and the three factors of support team, further analysis indicated weak linear relationships among the variables. In addition, data analysis failed to support a significant effect of team size on the relationships between mode of operation and the three measures of support team performance.
Analysing the Suitability of Virtual Worlds for Direct Instruction and Individual Learning Activities
Authors: Zarraonandia Telmo , Francese Rita , Passero Ignazio , Díaz Paloma , Tortora Genoveffa
Published: July 2014

Despite several researchers reporting evidence that 3D Virtual Worlds can be used to effectively support educational processes in recent years, the integration of this technology in real learning processes is not as commonplace as in other educational technologies. Instructional designers have to balance the cost associated with the development of these virtual environments with the expected outcomes reported by the use of the new technology, but for some types of learning processes those outcomes are not always easily predicted. In this document the authors experience using 3D Virtual Worlds is summarized with the aim of getting a deeper understanding of their potential pedagogical use when supporting two different types of learning activities commonly included on a course: direct instruction, which exploits the social dimension of the technology, and individual learning activities in which that feature is not used. Based on those experiences a set of guidelines for designing 3D virtual world learning environments is proposed.
Differences between Visual Style and Verbal Style Learners in Learning English
Authors: Chen Chiu-Jung
Published: July 2014

English proverb is an interested part when learner applied it in real life situation. The participants of this study were chosen from a big university in the middle area of Taiwan. The researchers selected some learners from Department of Foreign Language (DFL) and Department of Non-Foreign Language (DNFL). 40 students were from DFL, and 40 students were from DNFL. According to learner's short-term memory (STM) abilities, the researchers separated participants into four quadrants (Q1-Q4). According to visual style and verbal style of learning style, learning content representation (LCR) types are clarified into Type A, B, C. The research question is that participants with different STM abilities, how different LCR types affect the learning performance of English proverbs? The authors' results described that LCR with pictorial annotation (Type A) help participants with lower verbal ability and higher visual ability (Q2) to have better performance than other three quadrants, because type A participants feel easier to learn content presented in a visual form than in a verbal form. Providing LCR with both written and pictorial annotation (Type C) helps learners best with higher verbal ability and higher visual ability (Q1) in the recognition test. Providing redundancy learning content lead a higher cognitive load and result to irritation and lack of concentration, in accordance with the Cognitive Load theory. It implied that providing simple learning materials (only written annotation, Type B) is useful to participants with lower verbal ability and lower visual ability (Q3). The research results show that instructors should provide suitable learning materials to their learners in accordance with their STM abilities.
The Challenges for Online Deliberation Research
Authors: Jonsson Magnus E. , Åström Joachim
Published: July 2014

While pure deliberation has still not been found online, the field of online deliberation research is blossoming. Born out of the “frustrations and possibilities” of the 1990s, a current theme in the field is to re-link deliberative theory with empirical political science. The aim of this systematic literature review is to sort out and examine important features of this development; to identify and categorise important research themes and issues as well as to pinpoint some research gaps. Using citation analysis as a method for article selection, 788 abstracts were retrieved and out of these, 130 items were chosen for further analysis. First the review shows that researchers from several different disciplines are involved in the field and that these researchers are studying online deliberation in a variety of arenas aided by a wide range of methods. Second the review reveals that the field struggles with a highly diversified concept of deliberation; that newer theoretical developments are underutilised in the operationalisation of theoretical concepts for empirical analyses, and that it there is a rather low degree of cumulativity in the field. Finally, more attention is paid on deliberation per se, rather than the political and democratic consequences of deliberation.
Fuzzy Based Project Time-Cost Optimization Using Simulated Annealing Search Technique
Authors: Haque Khan Md. Ariful , Hasin M. Ahsan Akhtar
Published: July 2014

The Project time-cost optimization is inherently a complex task. Because of various kinds of uncertainties, such as weather, productivity level, inflation, human factors etc. during project execution process, time and cost of each activity may vary significantly. The complexity multiplies several folds when the operational times are not deterministic, rather fuzzy in nature. Therefore, deterministic models for time-cost optimization are not yet efficient. It is very difficult to find the exact solution of savings in both time and cost. To make such problems realistic, triangular fuzzy numbers and the concept of a-cut method in fuzzy logic theory are employed to model the problem. Because of NP-hard nature of the project scheduling problem, this paper develops a simple approach with Simulated Annealing (SA) based searching technique. The proposed model leads the decision makers to choose the desired solution under different values of a-cut. Finally, taking a real project, the performance of SA has been tested.
Open Source Approach for Mitigating Misinformation Risk in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practices
Authors: Gopalakrishna-Remani Venugopal , Fagan Mary Helen
Published: July 2014

Patients and health maintenance organizations are spending approximately $47 billion annually on innovative alternative medical techniques such as aromatherapy, biofeedback, chiropractic manipulation, homeopathy and others. Health insurance companies, drug regulation agencies, medical practitioners and educated patients are demanding more reliable information concerning these alternative medicines and complementary processes. While these approaches have been successful, the community of stakeholders is demanding scientifically proven, evidence-based validation of the materials and practices. Validation is essential to formalize the use of alternative medicines and complementary treatments. However there are very few peer reviewed journal articles and a lack of approval methodologies in this field, which may be related symptoms. Another key problem is the lack of accurate knowledge about the proper diagnosis-treatment match. This may result in negligence risk for practitioners or opportunity lost risk for patients who miss access to a potential remedy. The open source approach evolved in the information technology field out of the free public software movement, which has been effective for knowledge creation, collaboration and sharing across disciplines and cultures. For example, the authors all have free Internet browsers and utility software. Therefore, the authors investigated applying the 'open source' ideology as a potential methodology for solving these problems. They developed an alternative medicine knowledge development framework to facilitate creating, collaborating on, and sharing innovations in the field.
Globalizing Software Development
Authors: Meadows C.J.
Published: July 2014

In an attempt to provide insight into managing successful international technology collaboration, this article presents a framework to guide managers in dividing and integrating labor and assessing methodological and organizational weaknesses. The analysis draws on technology and management literatures and specifically addresses outsourcing systems development work to emerging economies. Recommendations are provided not only on how to organize international work at present, but also on the characteristics of projects and tasks that are good candidates for international outsourcing, and what capabilities must change in order to move to an international project management methodology involving lower project risk and lower coordination costs.
The Relationship of Some Personal and Situational Factors to IS Effectiveness
Authors: Khalil Omar E.M. , Elkordy Manal M.
Published: July 2014

Most, if not all, of the empirical evidence on information systems effectiveness and its associated factors is confined to the use of data from developed countries, in particular from the USA. The findings of such research cannot necessarily be generalized to other environments where the social, economic, and cultural characteristics are different. Such evidence needs to be first validated using cross-cultural research before it can be used to manage global information systems effectively. This paper reports on the results of research aimed at testing the relationship of user’s age, tenure in the job, organizational level, education, training, duration of system use, and involvement in system development to information systems effectiveness, as measured by user satisfaction and systems usage. Data were collected from 120 managers in 22 Egyptian banks. Age, tenure in the job, and user involvement in systems development were found to be positively correlated with user satisfaction. However, age, organizational level and education were found to be negatively associated with system usage. While beneficial to the Egyptian IS managers, such evidence from developing countries should contribute to the building of a general theory of trans-national global information systems.
The Emerging Brazilian I.T. Industry and its Time-Zone Proximity Advantage
Authors: Prikladnicki Rafael , Carmel Erran
Published: July 2014

Brazil has been emerging as an offshore destination for offshore IT software and services. The country already had a strong domestic base of IT clients to global companies. One of the competitive factors is time zone location. Brazil has now positioned itself as easy for collaboration because of time zone overlap with its primary partners in North America and Europe. In this paper we examine whether time zone proximity is indeed an advantage for software development by conducting a country-level field study of the Brazilian IT industry using a cross section of firms. The results provide some support for the claims of proximity benefits. The Brazil-to-North dyads use moderate timeshifting that is perceived as comfortable and advantageous for both sides of these dyads. The voice coordination that the time overlap permits helps address coordination challenges and foster relationships. These and other practices relating to time zones are described in detail.
ICT Helping to Scale up Microfinance
Authors: Diniz Eduardo Henrique , Jayo Martin , Pozzebon Marlei , Lavoie Frédéric , Foguel Flávio Henrique dos Santos
Published: July 2014

Finding ways to downscale microfinance is one of the current challenges facing commercial banks, especially in developing countries. As banks have a poor knowledge of microfinance, operating in this market will require capacity-building, innovative business models and new technological architectures. This paper discusses how one particular architecture – the Brazilian model of correspondent banking (CB) – is helping banks cope with these challenges. Since the model was created, in 2000, it has allowed banks to downscale financial services outside their traditional branches and establish successful partnerships with local microfinance institutions (MFIs). The authors focus on one particular case involving a partnership between an accredited MFI (Banco Palmas) and two major banks (Banco do Brasil e Caixa Econômica Federal), to make the argument that the Brazilian CB model represents an innovation at the “meso level”, defined by Helms (2006) as the infrastructure comprising a network of service providers necessary to the operation of MFIs.
Electronic Media Use
Authors: Chimenti Paula , Nogueira Roberto , Mazzon Jose Afonso , Rodrigues Marco , Hupsel Luiz Felipe
Published: July 2014

The objective of the study is to propose and test a model to understand the factors that impact the use of electronic media in Brazil. A survey was conducted, capturing perceptions about five electronic media – Broadcast TV, Pay-TV, Internet, Mobile Phones and Game Consoles. A sample of 1000 cases was collected by personal interviews in six cities and analyzed using SEM. Attitude is influenced by Image, Entertainment and Content, followed by Communication and Habit. The model explained 80% of Attitude and 90% of Satisfaction. Attitude is a strong predictor of Satisfaction. Attention is explained by Entertainment and Satisfaction.
Endoscopic Imaging Results
Authors: Braga Joel , Laranjo Isabel , Rolanda Carla , Lopes Luís , Correia-Pinto Jorge , Alves Victor
Published: July 2014

The technological evolution seen in the past years led to an increase in the number therapeutic and diagnostic tests. In this paper a new solution for storage, diffusion, and real-time remote assistance in endoscopic exams is presented. The aim is to solve the problem of endoscopic examinations not being archived and easily accessed anywhere within a health care network by authorized health care professionals and researchers. Solving that problem avoids unneeded repetition of unpleasant exams and allows the comparison of video segments with future procedures. The presented solution also allows the streaming and real-time remote assistance of exams being carried out. This way health care professionals can contribute with their expertise even if they cannot attend onsite.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy:Revisited
Authors: Yadav Poonam
Published: July 2014

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is an alternative to abdominal hysterectomy. Different techniques are described and illustrated. Most laparotomies for hysterectomies can be avoided by using the laparoscopic approach including cases of adhesions, adnexal masses and endometriosis. According to the expertise of the surgeon the time to perform the laparoscopic surgery can be reduced. There are many advantages of laparoscopic hysterectomy for the patient including the length of hospital stay and convalescence. Most hysterectomies currently requiring an abdominal route may be performed with laparoscopic dissection in part followed by removal of uterus vaginally.

How to cite this article

Garg R, Singh R, Yadav P, Malhotra N. Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Revisited. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(1):1-4.
Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Enzymes in Pre-eclampsia
Authors: Arshad Zakia , Noor Nasreen , Parveen Shazia , Moin Shagufta , Banu Naheed
Published: July 2014

Objective

To estimate the levels of lipid peroxidation product and free radical metabolizing enzymes in normotensive pregnant women and women with pre-eclampsia.

Materials and methods

The study has been conducted on 50 women between the age group of 20 and 35 years. The women were divided into two groups, i.e. group A — normotensive pregnant women between 20 and 36 weeks of gestation and group B — Pregnant women with pre-eclampsia between 20 and 36 weeks of gestation. Lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes SOD, GSH and GST were estimated.

Results

Mean circulating levels of MDA were higher in women with pre-eclampsia as compared to normotensive pregnant women and mean circulating levels of free radical metabolizing enzymes SOD, GSH and GST were decreased in women with pre-eclampsia.

Conclusion

Pre-eclampsia is a state of pregnancy in which there is increased oxidative stress an depicted by increased level of free radical MDA and decreased levels of antioxidant enzyme to counter act that oxidative stress.

How to cite this article

Parveen S, Noor N, Moin S, Arshad Z, Banu N. Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Enzymes in Preeclampsia. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(1):5-7.
Malondialdehyde and Homocysteine Levels in Patients with Unexplained Female Infertility
Authors: Chari Suresh , Gupta Madhur Mahesh
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To assess association in between malondialdehyde and homocysteine in females with unexplained infertility.

Methods

A case control study.

Setting

Hospital based.

Patients

Fifty females diagnosed with unexplained infertility were matched with fifty normal healthy controls.

Intervention

Blood samples for malondialdehyde, a lipid peroxidation product and homocysteine measurements.

Results

Our study suggests that females with unexplained infertility have increase in malondialdehyde along with hyperhomocysteinemia when compared with normal healthy controls.

Conclusion

Determination of levels of malondialdehyde and homocysteine should be incorporated as one of the factors for ascertaining the cause of female unexplained infertility.

How to cite this article

Gupta MM, Chari S. Malondialdehyde and Homocysteine Levels in Patients with Unexplained Female Infertility. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(1):18-20.
Doppler Cerebroplacental Ratio and Adverse Perinatal Outcome
Authors: Singh Anita , LNU Shaheen , Bano Imam , Ahmad Ibne
Published: July 2014

Objective

This study was done to assess the Doppler cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) in the prediction of adverse perinatal outcome especially in growth restricted pregnancies.

Materials and methods

In this study, 62 antenatal women were subjected to Doppler studies at 34 to 42 weeks of gestations. CPR was calculated and less than 1 was taken as predictor of adverse perinatal outcome. Adverse perinatal outcomes was evaluated by mode of delivery, meconium staining, 1 and 5-minute Apgar scores, birth weight, admission to NICU and other neonatal complications.

Results

Of 62 antenatal women, with an abnormal CPR had higher incidence of meconium, clinical fetal distress, operative delivery, low Apgar score (5 mins), NICU admission and neonatal death, 42.88, 47.62, 26.57, 76.19, 66.17 and 66.67% respectively as compared to women with normal CPR who had 4.88, 2.88, 2.88. 2.88, 12.19, 17.07 and 0% respectively. With the use of an abnormal CPR, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for predicting an adverse outcome were 62, 80, 62 and 80%, respectively, with an odds ratio (95% confidence interval).

Conclusion

An abnormal CPR is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, especially in growth-restricted fetuses.

How to cite this article

Shaheen S, Bano I, Ahmad I, Singh A. Doppler Cerebroplacental Ratio and Adverse Perinatal Outcome. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(1):25-27.
Mole in the Hole: A Rare Case of Recurrent Invasive Vesicular Mole in an Ectopic Pregnancy at Scar Site with Bladder Invasion
Authors: Lewis Preeti , Biswas Som Subhro
Published: July 2014

Background

Cesarean scar pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy with an incidence of 1:1800 to 1:2200 pregnancies. There is currently no consensus as to the most effective management of cesarean-scar ectopic pregnancy, and little is known about the outcome of subsequent pregnancies.

Case Report

We report here a very rare case of recurrent vesicular mole in an ectopic pregnancy at scar site with bladder invasion and its management.

Conclusion

There is currently no consensus as to the most effective management of cesarean-scar ectopic pregnancy, and little is known about the outcome of subsequent pregnancies. We show that medical management was effective in this patient but further studies are needed to decide ideal management in such cases.

How to cite this article

Lewis P, Biswas SS. Mole in the Hole: A Rare Case of Recurrent Invasive Vesicular Mole in an Ectopic Pregnancy at Scar Site with Bladder Invasion. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(1):35-38.
An Unusual Presentation of an Endometriotic Chocolate Cyst
Authors: Desai Shyam V , Desai Gaurav S
Published: July 2014

Background

Pelvic inflammatory disease is usually associated with gonococcal sexually transmitted infection. Its association with endometriosis has not been well documented.

Case Report

The authors report an unusual case of an endometriotic cyst in a 29-year-old nulliparous patient with clinical features of pelvic inflammatory disease. On treatment with antibiotics, the symptomatology subsided and signs of infection diminished. But subsequent imaging revealed a persistent right adnexal mass. A right chocolate cyst was found on laparoscopy and was treated with drainage and enucleation. Patient was administered three doses of GnRH analogs thereafter and is awaiting treatment for infertility.

Conclusion

Endometriotic cysts commonly manifest with dyspareunia and dysmenorrhea. The patient in this report presented with signs and symptoms suggestive of pelvic inflammatory disease which was secondary to a slow leak from a chocolate cyst.

How to cite this article

Desai GS, Desai SV. An Unusual Presentation of an Endometriotic Chocolate Cyst. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(1):46-48.
Fetomaternal Outcome in Preterm Premature Rupture of Membrane
Authors: Rana Minakeshi , Patra Sharda , Trivedi Shubha Sagar
Published: July 2014

This prospective observational study was carried out to study the fetomaternal outcome in women with preterm premature rupture of membrane (PPROM) between 24 and 36 weeks of gestation.

Materials and methods

A total of 150 pregnant women between 24 and 36 weeks gestation with PROM were subjected to detailed history and examination. Each patient was followed till her delivery and fetomaternal outcome was recorded gestation-wise between 24 and 28 weeks (n = 15), 28 and 32 weeks (n = 30), 32 and 34 weeks (n = 90), and 34 and 36 weeks (n = 15).

Result

The mean latency period from membrane rupture to delivery decreased from 15 days at 24 to 28 weeks, 11 days at 28 to 32 weeks to 4.4 days at 32 to 34 weeks to 2.1 days at 34 to 36 weeks. Majority of women delivered vaginally. The rate of spontaneous labor increased as the gestational age at admission increased, the difference between rate of spontaneous labor of 67% at 28 to 32 weeks and 86% at 34 to 36 weeks was statistically significant (p = 0.001). The indications for induction of labor were intrauterine fetal death, gross oligohydramnios, and clinical chorioamnionitis. The most common complication was clinical chorioamnionitis (6%) and postpartum sepsis (6%). The perinatal outcome was favorable in majority of cases and improved with the increase in gestational age at PROM. The overall perinatal mortality was 9.3%.

Conclusion

Management of PPROM involves complete evaluation of risks and benefits of conservative management. Wherever possible, the treatment should be directed toward conserving the pregnancy with prophylactic use of antibiotics and steroids thereby reducing fetal-maternal morbidity and mortality. However, termination of pregnancy should be considered at the earliest suspicion of chorioamnionitis.

How to cite this article

Rana M, patra s, Puri M, Trivedi SS. Fetomaternal Outcome in Preterm Premature Rupture of Membrane. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2014;5(1):18-21.
Globozoospermia
Authors: Krishnan Sandhya
Published: July 2014

Globozoospermia is a severe form of terato-zoospermia characterized by round-headed acrosome-less spermatozoa. The main problem is low fertilization rate due to lack of acrosome. We report successful pregnancy outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment in a case of globozoospermia.

How to cite this article

Krishnan S. Globozoospermia. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2014;5(1):27-29.
Fracture Resistance of Teeth Submitted to Several Internal Bleaching Protocols
Authors: de Toledo Leonardo Renato , de Campos Edson Alves , Keine Katia Cristina , Kuga Milton Carlos , Guiotti Flávia Angélica , Andolfatto Carolina , de Faria-Júnior Norberto Batista , Dantas Andrea Abi Rached
Published: July 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance of teeth submitted to several internal bleaching protocols using 35% hydrogen peroxide (35HP), 37% carbamide peroxide (37CP), 15% hydrogen peroxide with titanium dioxide nanoparticles (15HPTiO2) photoactivated by LED-laser or sodium perborate (SP).

Materials and methods

After endodontic treatment, fifty bovine extracted teeth were divided into five groups (n = 10): G1—unbleached; G2—35HP; G3—37CP; G4—15HPTiO2 photoactivated by LED-laser and G5—SP. In the G2 and G4, the bleaching protocol was applied in 4 sessions, with 7 days intervals between each session. In the G3 and G5, the materials were kept in the pulp teeth for 21 days, but replaced every 7 days. After 21 days, the teeth were subjected to compressive load at a cross head speed of 0.5 mm/min, applied at 135° to the long axis of the root using an eletromechanical testing machine, until teeth fracture. The data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey tests (á = 5%).

Results

The 35HP, 37CP, 15HPTiO2 and SP showed similar fracture resistance teeth reduction (p > 0.05). All bleaching treatments reduced the fracture resistance compared to unbleached teeth (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

All bleaching protocols reduced the fracture resistance of endodontically-treated teeth, but there were no differences between each other.

Clinical significance

There are several internal bleaching protocols using hydrogen peroxide in different concentrations and activation methods. This study evaluated its effects on fracture resistance in endodontically-treated teeth.

How to cite this article

de Toledo Leonardo R, Kuga MC, Guiotti FA, Andolfatto C, de Faria-Júnior NB, de Campos EA, Keine KC, Dantas AAR. Fracture Resistance of Teeth Submitted to Several Internal Bleaching Protocols. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(2):186-189.
Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Acquired Maxillary Defects Secondary to Mucormycosis: Clinical Cases
Authors: Shah Rupal J , Katyayan Preeti Agarwal
Published: July 2014

Maxillary necrosis can occur due to bacterial infections such as osteomyelitis, viral infections, such as herpes zoster or fungal infections, such as mucormycosis, aspergillosis etc. Mucormycosis is an opportunistic fungal infection, which mainly infects immunocompromised patients. Once the maxilla is involved, surgical resection and debridement of the necrosed areas can result in extensive maxillary defects. The clinician is to face many a challenge in order to replace not only the missing teeth, but also the lost soft tissues and bone, including hard palate and alveolar ridges. The prosthesis (Obturator) lacks a bony base and the lost structures of the posterior palatal seal area compromise retention of the prosthesis. Furthermore, the post surgical soft tissues are scarred and tense, which exert strong dislodging forces. The present article describes the prosthetic rehabilitation of maxillary necrosis secondary to mucormycosis in two cases, one completely edentulous and the other partially edentulous.

How to cite this article

Shah RJ, Katyayan MK, Katyayan PA, Chauhan V. Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Acquired Maxillary Defects Secondary to Mucormycosis: Clinical Cases. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(2):242-249.
Bibliometric Indicators for Evaluating the Quality of Scientific Publications
Authors: Joshi Medha A
Published: July 2014

Evaluation of quality and quantity of publications can be done using a set of statistical and mathematical indices called bibliometric indicators. Two major categories of indicators are (1) quantitative indicators that measure the research productivity of a researcher and (2) performance indicators that evaluate the quality of publications. Bibliometric indicators are important for both the individual researcher and organizations. They are widely used to compare the performance of the individual researchers, journals and universities. Many of the appointments, promotions and allocation of research funds are based on these indicators. This review article describes some of the currently used bibliometric indicators such as journal impact factor, crown indicator, h-index and it's variants. It is suggested that for comparison of scientific impact and scientific output of researchers due consideration should be given to various factors affecting theses indicators.

How to cite this article

Joshi MA. Bibliometric Indicators for Evaluating the Quality of Scientific Publications. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(2):258-262.
Warming, euxinia and sea level rise during the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum on the Gulf Coastal Plain: implications for ocean oxygenation and nutrient cycling
Authors: Sluijs A. , van Roij L. , Harrington G. J. , Schouten S. , Sessa J. A. , LeVay L. J. , Reichart G.-J. , Slomp C. P.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM, ~ 56 Ma) was a ~ 200 kyr episode of global warming, associated with massive injections of 13C-depleted carbon into the ocean–atmosphere system. Although climate change during the PETM is relatively well constrained, effects on marine oxygen concentrations and nutrient cycling remain largely unclear. We identify the PETM in a sediment core from the US margin of the Gulf of Mexico. Biomarker-based paleotemperature proxies (methylation of branched tetraether–cyclization of branched tetraether (MBT–CBT) and TEX86) indicate that continental air and sea surface temperatures warmed from 27–29 to ~ 35 °C, although variations in the relative abundances of terrestrial and marine biomarkers may have influenced these estimates. Vegetation changes, as recorded from pollen assemblages, support this warming. The PETM is bracketed by two unconformities. It overlies Paleocene silt- and mudstones and is rich in angular (thus in situ produced; autochthonous) glauconite grains, which indicate sedimentary condensation. A drop in the relative abundance of terrestrial organic matter and changes in the dinoflagellate cyst assemblages suggest that rising sea level shifted the deposition of terrigenous material landward. This is consistent with previous findings of eustatic sea level rise during the PETM. Regionally, the attribution of the glauconite-rich unit to the PETM implicates the dating of a primate fossil, argued to represent the oldest North American specimen on record. The biomarker isorenieratene within the PETM indicates that euxinic photic zone conditions developed, likely seasonally, along the Gulf Coastal Plain. A global data compilation indicates that O2 concentrations dropped in all ocean basins in response to warming, hydrological change, and carbon cycle feedbacks. This culminated in (seasonal) anoxia along many continental margins, analogous to modern trends. Seafloor deoxygenation and widespread (seasonal) anoxia likely caused phosphorus regeneration from suboxic and anoxic sediments. We argue that this fueled shelf eutrophication, as widely recorded from microfossil studies, increasing organic carbon burial along many continental margins as a negative feedback to carbon input and global warming. If properly quantified with future work, the PETM offers the opportunity to assess the biogeochemical effects of enhanced phosphorus regeneration, as well as the timescales on which this feedback operates in view of modern and future ocean deoxygenation.
Changes in Mediterranean circulation and water characteristics due to restriction of the Atlantic connection: a high-resolution parallel ocean model
Authors: Topper R. P. M. , Meijer P. Th.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. A high-resolution parallel ocean model is set up to examine how the sill depth of the Atlantic connection affects circulation and water characteristics in the Mediterranean Basin. An analysis of the model performance, comparing model results with observations on the present-day Mediterranean, demonstrates its ability to reproduce observed water characteristics and circulation (including deep water formation). A series of experiments with different sill depths in the Atlantic–Mediterranean connection is used to assess the sensitivity of Mediterranean circulation and water characteristics to sill depth. Basin-averaged water salinity and, to a lesser degree, temperature rise when the sill depth is less and exchange with the Atlantic is lower. Lateral and interbasinal differences in the Mediterranean are, however, largely unchanged. The strength of the upper overturning cell in the western basin is proportional to the magnitude of the exchange with the Atlantic, and hence to sill depth. Overturning in the eastern basin and deep water formation in both basins, on the contrary, are little affected by the sill depth. The model results are used to interpret the sedimentary record of the Late Miocene preceding and during the Messinian Salinity Crisis. In the western basin a correlation exists between sill depth and rate of refreshment of deep water. On the other hand, because sill depth has little effect on the overturning and deep water formation in the eastern basin, the model results do not support the notion that restriction of the Atlantic–Mediterranean connection may cause lower oxygenation of deep water in the eastern basin. However, this discrepancy may be due to simplifications in the surface forcing and the use of a bathymetry different from that in the Late Miocene. We also tentatively conclude that blocked outflow, as found in experiments with a sill depth ≤10 m, is a plausible scenario for the second stage of the Messinian Salinity Crisis during which halite was rapidly accumulated in the Mediterranean. With the model setup and experiments, a basis has been established for future work on the sensitivity of Mediterranean circulation to changes in (palaeo-)bathymetry and external forcings.
The hydrological regime of a forested tropical Andean valley
Authors: Clark K. E. , Torres M. A. , West A. J. , Hilton R. G. , New M. , Horwath A. B. , Fisher J. B. , Rapp J. M. , Robles Caceres A. , Malhi Y.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. The hydrology of tropical mountain catchments plays a central role in ecological function, geochemical and biogeochemical cycles, erosion and sediment production, and water supply in globally important environments. There have been few studies quantifying the seasonal and annual water budgets in the montane tropics, particularly in cloud forests. We investigated the water balance and hydrologic regime of the Kosñipata Valley (basin area 164.4 km2) over the period 2010–2011. The valley spans over 2500 m in elevation in the eastern Peruvian Andes and is dominated by tropical montane cloud forest with some high elevation puna grasslands. Catchment wide rainfall was 3028 ± 414 mm yr−1, calculated by calibrating Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) 3B43 rainfall with rainfall data from 9 meteorological stations in the valley. Cloud water input to streamflow was 316 ± 116 mm yr−1 (~10% of total inputs), calculated from an isotopic mixing model using deuterium excess (Dxs) and δD of waters. Field stream flow was measured in 2010 by recording height and calibrating to discharge. River runoff was estimated to be 2796 ± 126 mm yr−1. Actual evapotranspiration (AET) was 909 ± 182 mm yr−1, determined using the Priestley and Taylor – Jet Propulsion Laboratory (PT-JPL) model. The overall water budget was balanced within 10%. Relationships between monthly rainfall and river runoff follow an anti-clockwise hysteresis through the year, with a persistence of high runoff after the end of the wet season. The size of the soil- and shallow ground-water reservoir is most likely insufficient to explain sustained dry season flow. Thus, the observed hysteresis in rainfall-runoff relationships is best explained by sustained groundwater flow in the dry season, which is consistent with the water isotope results that suggest persistent wet season sources to stream flow throughout the year. These results demonstrate the importance of transient groundwater storage in stabilizing the annual hydrograph in this region of the Andes.
Estimating degree day factors from MODIS for snowmelt runoff modeling
Authors: He Z. H. , Parajka J. , Tian F. Q. , Blöschl G.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Degree-day factors are widely used to estimate snowmelt runoff in operational hydrological models. Usually, they are calibrated on observed runoff, and sometimes on satellite snow cover data. In this paper, we propose a new method for estimating the snowmelt degree-day factor (DDFS) directly from MODIS snow covered area (SCA) and ground based snow depth data without calibration. Subcatchment snow volume is estimated by combining SCA and snow depths. Snow density is estimated as the ratio of observed precipitation and changes in the snow volume for days with snow accumulation. Finally, DDFS values are estimated as the ratio of changes in the snow water equivalent and degree-day temperatures for days with snow melt. We compare simulations of basin runoff and snow cover patterns using spatially variable DDFS estimated from snow data with those using spatially uniform DDFS calibrated on runoff. The runoff performances using estimated DDFS are slightly improved, and the simulated snow cover patterns are significantly more plausible. The new method may help reduce some of the runoff model parameter uncertainty by reducing the total number of calibration parameters.
Brief Communication: Rapid mapping of landslide events: the 3 December 2013 Montescaglioso landslide, Italy
Authors: Manconi A. , Casu F. , Ardizzone F. , Bonano M. , Cardinali M. , De Luca C. , Gueguen E. , Marchesini I. , Parise M. , Vennari C. , Lanari R. , Guzzetti F.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. We present an approach to measure 3-D surface deformations caused by large, rapid-moving landslides using the amplitude information of high-resolution, X-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images. We exploit SAR data captured by the COSMO-SkyMed satellites to measure the deformation produced by the 3 December 2013 Montescaglioso landslide, southern Italy. The deformation produced by the deep-seated landslide exceeded 10 m and caused the disruption of a main road, a few homes and commercial buildings. The results open up the possibility of obtaining 3-D surface deformation maps shortly after the occurrence of large, rapid-moving landslides using high-resolution SAR data.
The role of different factors related to social impact of heavy rain events: considerations about the intensity thresholds in densely populated areas
Authors: Barbería L. , Amaro J. , Aran M. , Llasat M. C.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. In the assessment of social impact caused by meteorological events, factors of different natures need to be considered. Not only does hazard itself determine the impact that a severe weather event has on society, but also other features related to vulnerability and exposure. The requests of data related to insurance claims received in meteorological services proved to be a good indicator of the social impact that a weather event causes, according to studies carried out by the Social Impact Research Group, created within the framework of the MEDEX project. Taking these requests as proxy data, diverse aspects connected to the impact of heavy rain events have been studied. The rainfall intensity, in conjunction with the population density, has established itself as one of the key factors in social impact studies. One of the conclusions we obtained is that various thresholds of rainfall should be applied for areas of varying populations. In this study, the role of rainfall intensity has been analysed for a highly populated urban area like Barcelona. A period without significant population changes has been selected for the study to minimise the effects linked to vulnerability and exposure modifications. First, correlations between rainfall recorded in different time intervals and requests were carried out. Afterwards, a method to include the intensity factor in the social impact index was suggested based on return periods given by intensity–duration–frequency (IDF) curves.
Effect of chamomile supplements to feeding doses on antimicrobial parameters in poultry
Authors: Jakubcova Zuzana , Zeman Ladislav , Mares Petr , Mlcek Jiri , Jurikova Tunde , Dostalova Lenka , Mrazkova Eva , Mrkvicova Eva , Balla Stefan , Sochor Jiri
Published: July 2014

Due to a ban of use of antibiotic growth promoters in the poultry industry it is necessary to look for alternative solutions. The use of some herbs showing antimicrobial effects can be one of such alternatives. In this experiment, effects of three different concentrations of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) extract, (0.3%; 0.6% and 1.2%) in feeding doses on the microbial population in the gastrointestinal tract of growing broiler chickens were studied. The main attention was paid to the population of Clostridium perfringens and to numbers of coliform microbes. Clostridia were cultivated under anaerobic conditions at 46 °C on the Tryptone Sulfite Neomycin (TSN) agar for a period of 24 hours. Coliform microbes were grown on the violet red bile lactose (VRBL) agar at 37 °C for a period of 24 hours. The experiment lasted 39 days and involved 80 chicks that were slaughtered in the course of their growth period at the age of 18, 25, 32 and 39 days; there were 5 chicks in each group. The obtained results indicated that increasing doses of chamomile in the feeding ration decreased numbers of coliform microbes in the digestive tract of chicks and also reduced the population of C. perfingens.
Validity and Reliability of a Scale for Rating Self-care in Persons with Heart Failure
Authors: Rodríguez-Gázquez María de los Ángeles , Arredondo-Holguín Edith ,   Universidad de Antioquia
Published: July 2014

Objetivo: determinar la validez y confiabilidad, en el contexto colombiano, de la Escala de valoración de comportamientos de autocuidadoen personas con falla cardiaca (FC) diseñada por Nancy Artinian. Método: estudio de validación de la escala Revised HeartFailure Self Care Behavior. Se realizó validación cultural (n = 13 enfermeros expertos en cuidado cardiovascular y 12 pacientes con FC),validación factorial y análisis de la confiabilidad (n = 206 pacientes con FC). Resultados: la validación cultural de la escala fue adecuada. La validación factorial mostró que la versión en español tenía cuatro dominios (solicitud de ayuda, adaptación a vivir con la enfermedad,adherencia al tratamiento farmacológico y adherencia al tratamiento no farmacológico) que explicaron el 34,2% de la varianza del constructolatente en la escala. Se eliminaron siete ítems por explicar menos del 0,2% de la varianza, quedando la escala final reducida a 21ítems. El coeficiente de confiabilidad alfa de Cronbach para la escala total fue aceptable (0,75). Conclusión: la nueva versión de la escalatiene adecuadas propiedades psicométricas en términos de confiabilidad y validez, lo que permitirá su utilización por enfermeros en ladetección de cambios de comportamientos de autocuidado clínicamente importantes en los pacientes con FC.
Informed Consent: A Cornerstone of Clinical Research
Authors: Carrasco-Aldunate Paola , Rubio-Acuña Miriam , Fuentes-Olavarría Daniela ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Published: July 2014

Objetivo: dar a conocer los principales aspectos del concentimiento informado (CI) en la investigación en salud a través de una revisión de literatura en bases de datos. Método: se analizaron los elementos de su origen y evolución, los principios éticos involucrados (autonomía, beneficencia y justicia), elementos característicos claves como divulgación, comprensión, capacidad de consentir o decidir y voluntariedad. Resultados: en enfermería y otras disciplinas, la aplicación del CI no se encuentra exenta de conflictos tales como validez del proceso a través del tiempo, capacidad de comprender la información entregada, coerción con minorías, miedo a los efectos de la intervención o el procedimiento, y desconfianza respecto a lo que realmente se hará. Conclusión: se concluye que contar con la manifestación expresa de una persona a participar libre y voluntariamente de una investigación, y conocer las condiciones, los beneficios y los riesgos que esta involucra; garantiza la completa consideración de los principios éticos en el cuidado holístico de las personas.