bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the effects of climate and volcanism on diatom and chironomid assemblages in an Andean lake near Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Michelutti Neal , Lemmen Jillian L. , Cooke Colin A. , Hobbs William O. , Wolfe Alexander P. , Kurek Joshua , Smol John P.
Published: February 2016

The tropical Andes are undergoing climate changes that rival those occurring anywhere else on the planet, and are likely to have profound consequences for ecosystems. Paleolimnological investigations of remote mountain lakes can provide details of past environmental change, especially where monitoring data are absent. Here, we reconstruct fossil diatom and chironomid communities spanning the last several hundred years from an Andean lake located in an ecological reserve near Quito, Ecuador. Both diatoms and chironomids recorded assemblage shifts reflective of changing climate conditions. The diatoms are likely responding primarily to temperature-related limnological changes, recording an increase in the number of planktonic taxa in the most recent sediments. This change is consistent with warmer conditions that result in enhanced periods of thermal stratification, allowing planktonic species to proliferate. The chironomids appear to respond mainly to a change in precipitation regime, recording a greater number of terrestrial and semi-terrestrial taxa that have been transported to the lake. A thick tephra deposit at the base of the sediment core affected both diatom and chironomid assemblages. The diatoms registered a change in species composition highlighting the ability of certain taxa to rapidly colonize new environments. In contrast, the chironomids showed a marked drop in abundance immediately following the tephra, but no change in species composition. In both cases the ecological response was short-lived, illustrating the resiliency of the lake to return to baseline conditions following volcanic inputs.
Secondary productivity of main microcrustacean species of two tropical reservoirs in Brazil and its relationship with trophic state
Authors: Brito Sofia L. , Maia-Barbosa Paulina M. , Pinto-Coelho Ricardo M.
Published: February 2016

In view of the importance of the zooplankton community in energy transfer between trophic levels, this study had as objective to estimate the secondary productivity rates of the main microcrustacean in two large tropical reservoirs, Três Marias and Furnas, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. We included Thermocyclops minutus, Bosminopsis deitersi, Bosmina hagmanni, Ceriodaphnia cornuta and Moina minuta in Três Marias Reservoir, and, in Furnas, these species and also Notodiaptomus henseni, Daphnia ambigua, Ceriodaphnia silvestrii, Diaphanosoma spinulosum, D. fluviatile and Bosmina freyi. With respect to total productivity, higher rates were obtained in the rainy period in both reservoirs (P<0.000), with mean values during the dry and rainy periods of 0.44 and 1.80 mg DW m-3 d-1 for Três Marias Reservoir and 1.50 and 3.10 mg DW m-3 d-1 for Furnas Reservoir, respectively. Thermocyclops minutus was the most important species in terms of density and biomass in Três Marias Reservoir, and M. minuta showed the highest rates of secondary productivity, especially during the rainy period. In Furnas, N. henseni and D. ambigua showed the highest productivity rates in both periods, and C. silvestrii, C. cornuta, D. spinulosum and D. fluviatile were also important during the rainy period. Values of the productivity:biomass ratio were usually lower for the copepods; the cladoceran M. minuta showed the highest values in both reservoirs. The higher microcrustacean secondary productivity rates in Furnas Reservoir are probably the result of greater efficiency in energy transfer between trophic levels, due to the presence of phytoplankton species with better nutritional quality in this environment.
A 100-year record of climate change and human activities inferred from the geochemical composition of sediments in Chaiwopu Lake, arid northwest China
Authors: Liu Wen , Wu Jinglu , Pan Xiangliang
Published: February 2016

An 81-cm sediment core from Chaiwopu Lake in arid northwest China was analyzed for 137Cs activity and concentrations of major and trace elements. We used these data to discriminate between the influence of climate change and human activities on the geochemical change of the lake sediments over the past century. Elements Al, K, Ba, Ti, V, Fe, Ni, Mn, Li, and Be were mainly from detrital. Ca, Sr, and Mg concentrations were controlled by chemical weathering processes. Na came mainly from salt precipitation caused by a decline in water level. Enrichment factors for Pb and P in recent deposits are large, indicating they were influenced by human activies. Geochemical conditions during the past century can be divided into three stages: i) From ca. 1900 to the1950s element concentrations varied widely and frequently. In general, concentrations of typical mobile elements Ca, Sr, and Mg stay relatively high whereas values for other elements remained relatively low. This was interpreted to reflect variable climate under conditions of weak surface erosion intensity. ii) From the 1950s to the early 2000s, element concentrations display less variability. The Al, K, Ba, Ti, P, Cr, V, Fe, Ni, Mn, Co, Cu, Li, Zn, Be, Pb, and Na contents were generally higher, whereas contents of Ca, Sr, and Mg were on average lower. This indicates that the regional environment was conducive to surface erosion. Enrichment of trace metals and major elements in the sediment reflects enhanced human activities. iii) In the last decade, Pb and P exhibited a great increase, possibly associated with the input from fossil fuel combustion, sewage discharge and non-point-source pollution in the watershed. The lake volume decreased substantially because of groundwater extraction for municipal water, which resulted in a marked increase in salinity and enhanced Na precipitation.
The invasive Chinese pond mussel Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834) as a host for native symbionts in European waters
Authors: Cichy Anna , Urbańska Maria , Marszewska Anna , Andrzejewski Wojciech , Żbikowska Elżbieta
Published: February 2016

 Biological invasions are commonly observed in both the natural habitats and those which are altered by human activities. An understanding of the mechanisms involved in the successful introduction, establishment and invasion of exotic taxa is essential in predicting of changes in biodiversity and community structure. Symbiont-mediated interactions between exotic and native hosts are of special interest due to the indirect effects on population dynamics. The aim of this study was to estimate the presence of symbionts in Chinese pond mussel Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834), an exotic species of mussel in European fresh waters. The number of 340 individuals of S. woodiana was collected from Polish water bodies, including thermally heated lakes and fish ponds with natural thermal regime. The examination of mussels revealed the presence of Rhipidocotyle campanula sporocysts and cercariae (Digenea: Bucephalidae), water mites Unionicola ypsilophora (Acari: Hydracarina), oligochaetes Chaetogaster limnaei limnaei (Oligochaeta: Naididae) and chironomids Glyptotendipes sp. (Diptera: Chironomidae). The global prevalence of mussels inhabited by Ch. limnaei limnaei was 7.6%, by water mites and chironomids 3.5%, and by R. campanula cercariae 2.0%. The significant difference in the number of mussels with symbionts was identified between heated lakes and fish ponds (χ2=4.15; df=1, P=0.04), with a higher global prevalence of mussels in fish ponds (22.3%) compared to heated lakes (13.7%). R. campanula or U. ypsilophora were only found in mussels collected from thermally polluted lakes or fish ponds, respectively. Chironomid larvae and oligochaetes occurred in both types of water bodies. However, Glyptotendipes sp. inhabited mussels with a higher global prevalence in fish ponds than in thermally polluted lakes, while Ch. limnaei limnaei was observed mainly in hosts from heated lakes, and only from one fish pond that were not drained. Our findings indicate that the alien Chinese pond mussel S. woodiana can be inhabited by different groups of symbionts native to Europe, including digenetic trematodes. The results show that S. woodiana can affect directly and indirectly water habitats and the vulnerability of infection with symbionts depends on ecosystem conditions. It occurs that even considerable climate differences do not pose a barrier for exotic mussels to spread. 
Dissolved organic carbon, CO2, and CH4 concentrations and their stable isotope ratios in thermokarst lakes on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Mu Cuicui , Zhang Tingjun , Wu Qingbai , Peng Xiaoqing , Zhang Peng , Yang Yuzhong , Hou Yandong , Zhang Xiankang , Cheng Guodong
Published: February 2016

Thermokarst lakes are widely distributed on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP), which accounts for 8% of the global permafrost area. These lakes probably promote organic matter biodegradation and thus accelerate the emission of carbon-based greenhouse gases. However, little is known about greenhouse gas concentrations and their stable isotopes characteristics of these lakes. In this study, we measured the concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), dissolved CO2 and CH4, as well as the distribution of δ13CCO2, δ13CCH4, and δ13COM (organic matter) of lake sediments in thermokarst lakes on the QTP. Results showed that the OM of the lake sediments was highly decomposed. The concentrations of DOC, CO2 and CH4 in the lake water on the QTP were 1.2–49.6 mg L–1, 3.6–45.0 μmol L–1 and 0.28–3.0 μmol L–1, respectively. The highest CO2 and CH4 concentrations were recorded in July while the lowest values in September, which suggested that temperature had an effect on greenhouse gas production, although this pattern may also relate to thermal stratification of the water column. The results implied that thermokast lakes should be paid more attention to regarding carbon cycle and greenhouse gas emissions on the QTP.
A narrative investigation into the meaning and experience of career success: Perspectives from women participants
Authors: Chinyamurindi Willie T.
Published: February 2016

Orientation: In South Africa opportunities are being created that encourage more women to enter the workforce. Understanding how women conceptualise and experience career success affects not only their individual career development but also their general outlook in life.Research purpose: To investigate how a sample of previously disadvantaged women distance learners conceptualise and experience the notion of career success.Motivation for the study: Calls have been made for research incorporating a subjective understanding regarding career success, especially amongst minority groups.Research approach, design and method: An interpretive approach was employed aimed at understanding individual experience and the interpretation of it. Unstructured interviews were conducted shaped by the objectives of the study amongst a sample of women (n = 25).Main findings: Through narratives and stories, findings revealed career success to be conceptualised and experienced as (1) a means of professional attainment and recognition, (2) a contribution to society and (3) evident in material and non-material artefacts. Further, from the sample of women used in this research, the experience of career success considered not only socio-historical issues and community but also the cultural milieu. Education emerged as an enabler of individual pursuit and goals leading to career success.Practical/managerial implications: An understanding of how career success is conceptualised and experienced by previously disadvantaged women can serve as a forerunner to individual specific career development interventions. The results of the study are therefore useful to both academics and practitioners in their formulation of interventions that enable individual career development.Contribution: The experience of career success as found in this study through participant narratives and stories gave a picture of career development processes amongst previously disadvantaged groups in South Africa. These processes illustrate how individuals draw meaning and a sense of direction en route to career success, revealing aspirations affecting not only their career development but also their lived experience.
Morse taper dental implants and platform switching: The new paradigm in oral implantology
Authors: Macedo José Paulo , Pereira Jorge , Vahey Brendan R. , Henriques Bruno , Benfatti Cesar A. M. , Magini Ricardo S. , López-López José , Souza Júlio C. M.
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to conduct a literature review on the potential benefits with the use of Morse taper dental implant connections associated with small diameter platform switching abutments. A Medline bibliographical search (from 1961 to 2014) was carried out. The following search items were explored: “Bone loss and platform switching,” “bone loss and implant-abutment joint,” “bone resorption and platform switching,” “bone resorption and implant-abutment joint,” “Morse taper and platform switching.” “Morse taper and implant-abutment joint,” Morse taper and bone resorption,” “crestal bone remodeling and implant-abutment joint,” “crestal bone remodeling and platform switching.” The selection criteria used for the article were: Meta-analysis; randomized controlled trials; prospective cohort studies; as well as reviews written in English, Portuguese, or Spanish languages. Within the 287 studies identified, 81 relevant and recent studies were selected. Results indicated a reduced occurrence of peri-implantitis and bone loss at the abutment/implant level associated with Morse taper implants and a reduced-diameter platform switching abutment. Extrapolation of data from previous studies indicates that Morse taper connections associated with platform switching have shown less inflammation and possible bone loss with the peri-implant soft tissues. However, more long-term studies are needed to confirm these trends.
Failure of endodontic treatment: The usual suspects
Authors: Tabassum Sadia , Khan Farhan Raza
Published: February 2016

Inappropriate mechanical debridement, persistence of bacteria in the canals and apex, poor obturation quality, over and under extension of the root canal filling, and coronal leakage are some of the commonly attributable causes of failure. Despite the high success rate of endodontic treatment, failures do occur in a large number of cases and most of the times can be attributed to the already stated causes. With an ever increasing number of endodontic treatments being done each day, it has become imperative to avoid or minimize the most fundamental of reasons leading to endodontic failure. This paper reviews the most common causes of endodontic failure along with radiographic examples.
Investigation of eluted monomers from resin-based root canal sealer by high-performance liquid chromatography analysis
Authors: Omurlu Huma , Arisu Hacer Deniz , Dalkilic Evrim Eliguzeloglu , Tamer Ugur , Torul Hilal
Published: February 2016

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to determine the amount of urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), poly (ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA), bisphenol A ethoxylated dimethacrylate (Bis-EMA), and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) eluted from resin-based root canal sealer, epiphany, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Materials and Methods: Epiphany was placed into the plastic molds and light-cured with a light emitting diode. After the curing process, each specimen in the first group (n = 12) was immersed in Eppendorf tubes containing a phosphate-buffered saline solution (PBS) and incubated for 45 s. In the second group, each specimen (n = 12) was immersed in Eppendorf tubes containing PBS and incubated for 24 h. Of the specimen extracts, 100 μL were subjected to HPLC. Analysis of data was accomplished with one-way analysis of variance (P < 0.05). Results: All of the samples eluted HEMA, UDMA, Bis-GMA, PEGDMA, and Bis-EMA. A significant difference was determined between the time periods of HEMA, UDMA, PEGDMA, and Bis-EMA (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The results of the current study showed that Epiphany releases HEMA, UDMA, Bis-GMA, PEGDMA, and Bis-EMA in both time periods.
Rotation of the upper first molar in Class I, II, and III patients
Authors: Viganó Cristiane de Oliveira , da Rocha Viviane Ekerman , Junior Laerte Ribeiro Menezes , Paranhos Luiz Renato , Ramos Adilson Luiz
Published: February 2016

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the mean rotation of the upper first molar (U1st M) in cast models from nontreated patients presenting: Class I, skeletal Class II, dental Class II, and skeletal Class III, comparing with Class I orthodontically treated patients. Materials and Methods: One hundred cast models were evaluated with five groups, composed of nontreated Class I (n = 20), dental Class II (n = 20), skeletal Class II (n = 20), skeletal Class III (n = 20), and treated Class I (n = 20). Measurements were taken from photocopies of the upper arches. The angle formed between a line crossing the mesiopalatal and the distal-buccalcusps of the U1st M and a line traced on mid palatal junction were measured in all samples. Results: One-way variance analysis showed that dental Class II group presented great mean rotation of the 1st molar (x = 78.95°, SD = 6.19) (P < 0.05), and in 85% of the patients from this group this angle was higher than 73°. Conclusions: The skeletal Class II and skeletal Class III groups showed similar mean position of the 1st molar, presenting rotation in approximately 50% of the patients. It can be concluded that upper molar rotation occurs mainly in dental Class II patients and shows higher mesial rotation angle.
Maximum Temperatures and Heat Waves in Mexicali, Mexico: Trends and Threshold Analysis
Authors: Austria Polioptro F. Martínez , Bandala Erick R.
Published: February 2016

Maximum temperature trends and the corresponding heat wave thresholds in the northwestern city of Mexicali, Mexico, were analyzed using historical data from the site. We found that there seems to be an upward trend in temperature in the past decades, along with an increased number of days reaching maximum temperatures considered as heat waves. Despite the difficulty of establishing heat wave parameters, the trends of the analyzed field data clearly show their presence, mainly during July and August. This trend is also supported by the analysis of the number of admissions and casualties registered in hospitals in the city of Mexicali. This work is a warning on the frequency and duration of a very important climate change-related effect capable of jeopardizing the health of the population in the region and requiring more attention by decision makers and stakeholders. It also helps to document observed climate trends, as requested by the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change.
Assessment of Growth of Infants Fed an Amino Acid-Based Formula
Authors: Corkins Mark , Czerkies Laura A. , Storm Heidi M. , Sun Shumei , Saavedra José M.
Published: February 2016

Objective

This study's primary aim was to compare the growth (daily weight gain) of infants consuming a new (Test) amino acid-based formula (AAF) or a commercially available AAF (Control).

Methods

Healthy infants were randomized to Test or Control from 14 to 112 days of age. Anthropometric measurements were taken at 14,28, 56, 84, and 112 days of age. Tolerance records were completed prior to each visit. Serum albumin and plasma amino acids were ascertained in a subset of infants at 84 days of age.

Results

A total of 119 subjects completed the study per protocol. Mean daily weight gains were 27.26 ± 4.92 g/day for Control and 27.42 ± 6.37 g/day for Test ( P = 0.8812). There were no significant differences between groups in formula intake, adverse events, flatulence, spit-up/vomiting, mood, or sleep. Albumin and plasma amino acids were within normal limits for both groups.

Conclusions

Infants fed the new AAF had similar daily weight gains as infants fed a commercially available AAF.
Parque de bomberos en Badalona, Barcelona. España
Authors: NsARQUITECTES Estudi
Published: February 2016

El encargo se sitúa en el barrio de Canyet de Badalona en un solar adyacente a la autopista del Maresme, en el tramo denominado B-20, que discurre entre Barcelona y Palafolls.
Radiographic Evaluation of Soft Palate Morphology and Correlation with Gender on Lateral Cephalograms
Authors: Pentapati Kalyana Chakravarthy , Smriti Komal , Pai Keerthilatha Muralidhar , Vineetha Ravindranath
Published: February 2016

Objective

To investigate the variation of the soft palate morphology and the proportional differences of the morphology of soft palate between males and females.

Materials and methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in department of oral medicine and radiology. Lateral cephalometric radiographs of individuals subjected to radiographic examination for orthodontic purpose were retrieved. A total of 100 digital lateral cephalograms of normal healthy individuals (50 males and 50 females) who were aged 15 to 45 years were retrieved.

Results

Type 1 was most commonest shape of the soft palate (30%) followed by type 6 (19%), types 2 and 3 (17 and 17%), type 4 (11%) with least being type 5 (6%). There was no significant difference in the distribution of shape of soft palate between males and females (p = 0.312).

Conclusion

This classification can help us better understand the diversity of the velar morphology and can be used as references for the research of velopharyngeal closure in cleft palate individuals, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and other conditions.

How to cite this article

Smriti K, Pai KM, Vineetha R, Pentapati KC. Radiographic Evaluation of Soft Palate Morphology and Correlation with Gender on Lateral Cephalograms. World J Dent 2015;6(3):147-149.
Assessment of Learning Preferences among Indian Undergraduate Dental Students
Authors: Binnal Almas
Published: February 2016

Objectives

In order to facilitate and optimize learning process, there is need to evaluate preferred choice of teaching methods among dental students, especially in Indian scenario wherein lecturing remains the most commonly employed method of teaching. The aim of the present study was to assess and compare learning approaches among the male and female undergraduate dental students.

Materials and methods

The study was conducted among undergraduate dental students of Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal University, Mangalore, Karnataka, India. Students belonging to the first 4 years of their professional dental education program were enrolled in the study. A structured, self-administered questionnaire comprising of nine multiple choice questions apart from the demographic details was employed to assess the dental student's preferences towards learning.

Results

A total of 100 dental students participated in the study. Majority of the respondents preferred lecture classes in the morning hours for 30 minutes. Audiovisual method was the most preferred teaching aid, whereas multiple choice questions and periodic tests were most preferred method for evaluation. Significant difference was observed between male and female study subjects in terms of average percentage of the lecture content they were able to understand (p<0.035).

Conclusions

The present study holds policy implications for changes in the teaching patterns practiced in current times. Differences among learning preferences of males and females must be considered while selecting teaching methods. There is need to introduce more of active learning programs in order to overcome the drawback of lack of interaction and also to facilitate the learning among all students.

How to cite this article

Ahmed J, Binnal A, Denny C, Shenoy N, Natarajan S. Assessment of Learning Preferences among Indian Undergraduate Dental Students. World J Dent 2015;6(3): 169-173.
Mandibular Loop Connector: An Underrated Treatment Modality
Authors: Sanyal Pronob , Gosavi Sulekha , Gosavi Siddharth , Kore Abhijeet R , Kore Shobha , Tewari Shivsagar
Published: February 2016

Connectors are the components of fixed dental prosthesis that join the individual retainers and pontics together. Connectors may be rigid or nonrigid. Loop connector is a type of rigid connector, indicated primarily when an existing diastema is to be maintained in a planned fixed prosthesis. Such cases can be treated with an implant supported prosthesis or a fixed prosthesis using a loop connector. In case of loop connector, the connector is in the form of a loop on the lingual aspect of the prosthesis that connects the adjacent retainer and pontic. Similarly, loop connector can also be used in the mandibular anterior region for replacement of central incisors, using canines as abutments rather than mandibular laterals which usually have compromised bone support.

There are many reports in literature describing the use of a loop connector in the maxillary anterior sextant. But, there are seldom reports about the use of a loop connector in the mandibular anterior region. This case report describes the use of a mandibular loop connector for the replacement of mandibular teeth where the adjacent teeth are periodontally compromised.

How to cite this article

Kore AR, Kore S, Gosavi S, Tewari S, Gosavi S, Sanyal P. Mandibular Loop Connector: An Underrated Treatment Modality. World J Dent 2015;6(3):184-187.
A Case-Control study of Body Mass Index and Infertility in Algerian Women (Sidi Bel Abbes, West of Algeria)
Authors: MAÏ Hichem Abdessalem , Demmouche Abbassia
Published: February 2016

Introduction

The prevalence of obesity and female infertility in Algeria has increased in past decades, and recent study are showing a relationship between body mass index (BMI) and the risk of female infertility, suggesting that obesity is a risk factor for infertility. In order to evaluate the risk of infertility associated with BMI, we conducted a case-control study.

Materials and methods

The relationship between BMI and female infertility was investigated in a case-control study of 256 infertile cases and 326 fertile control subjects. The BMI of infertile women was compared with the BMI of the control fertile group. Odds ratios (ORs) was calculated as measures of relative risk of infertility associated with BMI.

Results

Multiple analyses showed significant association between various measures of BMI and female infertility in this population. An association between BMI and infertility was observed for the overweight (25.00–29.99 kg/m2; odds ratio = 2.23; p = 0.021; 95% confidence interval, 1.52–3.25) and obese group (> 30 kg/m2; odds ratio = 3.26; p = 0.019; 95% confidence interval, 1.62–6.58) compared to the normal weight group. However, no association was found between underweight and infertility (BMI < 20 Kg/m2, odds ratio = 0.96; p = 0.063; 95% confidence interval, 0.57–1.63).

Conclusion

The present study confirms the results that the previously reported research have shown and affirm that an negative association exist between obesity and overweight with fertility, this association might be influenced by other factors, that's why larger and more research in the Algerian population are needed.

How to cite this article

MAÏ HA, Demmouche A. A Case-Control study of Body Mass Index and Infertility in Algerian Women (Sidi Bel Abbes, West of Algeria). Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2015;6(3):103-107.
Association of Ultrasound Estimated Fetal Weight between 10th and 50th Centile in Third Trimester with the Risk of Spontaneous Preterm Delivery
Authors: Pai Muralidhar V , Mathias Caroline R
Published: February 2016

Objective

To find out the association of ultrasound estimated fetal weight (UEFW) between 10th and 50th centile, in early third trimester and the risk of spontaneous preterm delivery.

Materials and methods

Fetal weight of 965 women with singleton pregnancy was estimated between 28 and 34 weeks. Women with multiple gestation, medical disorders, fetal anomalies and induced labor were excluded. Values of UEFW were converted into centile values and multiples of median (MoM) for each gestational age. The risk of spontaneous preterm delivery was correlated with the UEFW.

Results

Out of 965 subjects 62 were either excluded as per exclusion criteria or lost for follow-up. Out of 91 subjects with fetal weights ≤10th centile 17 (18.7%, OR 1.82, p-value 0.003) and out of 180 with that ≤20th centile 29 (16.1% OR 1.51, p-value 0.040) had preterm delivery. When the deviation was below 0.85 MoM, 15 out of 73 (20.5% OR 2.08, p-value 0.024) subjects had preterm delivery.

Conclusion

When UEFW in early third trimester is below 20th centile or below 0.80 MoM the risk for spontaneous preterm delivery increases, hence, it may be prudent to be vigilant when the fetal weight is between 10th and 20th centile to avoid preterm delivery.

How to cite this article

Pai MV, Mathias CR. Association of Ultrasound Estimated Fetal Weight between 10th and 50th Centile in Third Trimester with the Risk of Spontaneous Preterm Delivery. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2015;6(3):108-111.
Expression Profiling of TGF-β Receptor and its Relation with Endometriosis
Authors: Ghoshal Soma , Agrawal Nisha Rani , Singh Kiran
Published: February 2016

Study objectives

To measure the transforming growth factorbeta (TGF-β) receptor level in endometriotic tissues in patients selected for surgery in our hospital; and thus to assess its genetic basis in the pathophysiology of endometriosis; and to study its possibility as a potent tissue marker.

Design

Observational study (case control study) involving Genetic Laboratory Study.

Setting

Tertiary Care Institute, Gynecology Department.

Population or sample

Total 100 female patients undergoing surgery in our hospital involved; out of them 50 were cases and 50 controls.

Materials and methods

Fifty cases (having endometriosis) and 50 controls (without endometriosis) were taken. During surgery, excised specimen was examined for presence of any endometriotic tissue. The endometrial tissue samples from suspected area were taken and put immediately in RNA-PCR media and sent to Genetics Laboratory where semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis of TGF-beta was done using primers designed by Primer Blast software (National Center for Biotechnology Information).

Main outcome measures

The mean TGF-β receptor level was 0.5886 in cases and the mean TGF-β receptor level in controls was 2.076. Both in extrauterine endometriosis and in adenomyosis, TGF-β receptor was downregulated equally in 80% of cases.

Results

Transforming growth factor-beta receptor levels in all types of endometriosis showed a significant down regulation in maximum number of cases.

Conclusion

This downregulation of TGF-β receptor level in the endometriotic tissues not only helps in understanding the pathological basis of endometriosis but most importantly, it can be utilized as genetic basis of therapy in endometriosis in near future.

How to cite this article

Ghoshal S, Agrawal NR, Singh K. Expression Profiling of TGF-β Receptor and its Relation with Endometriosis. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2015;6(3):112-117.

Consent

Taken from all the 100 patients involved.
Relationship of Time Interval between Antenatal Corticosteroid Administrations to Delivery with Respiratory Distress in Preterm Newborns
Authors: Hebbar Shripad , Rai Lavanya , Lewis Leslie , Adiga Prashanth , Guruvare Shyamala , Basu Barnali
Published: February 2016

Objectives

To assess the relationship of time interval between antenatal corticosteroid administration and delivery with respiratory distress in premature newborns.

Settings

Tertiary level teaching hospital

Population

Preterm deliveries between 28 and 34 weeks in the period of April 2011 to January 2013 where the mothers received one course of corticosteroid prophylaxis and fulfilled the selection criteria.

Materials and methods

Perusal of the hospital records was made to gather antenatal information and the details of delivery and the newborn. The patients were divided based on the number of doses of steroids received into three groups. The patients receiving complete steroid prophylaxis was further divided based on the time interval between steroid administration and delivery into five groups: 0 to 7 days, 8 to 14, 15 to 21, 22 to 28, 29 days and beyond. We looked for association between neonatal respiratory outcomes and steroid-delivery intervals using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 16 (SPSS, Chicago, USA). Regression model was used to control for the confounding variables.

Results

There were 284 women who delivered preterm (up to 34 weeks of gestation) between April 2011 and January 2013 and fulfilled the selection criteria. The babies who received one (48) or no dose of steroids (14) had a higher incidence of respiratory distress than the ones who received a complete dose. This was statistically significant for babies born up to 32 weeks.

Among the rest 222 babies who received complete steroid prophylaxis, 138 (62%) of the neonates born were admitted in NICU, respiratory distress was seen in 62 (28%). Eleven (5%) of the babies required intubation and 22 (9%) required surfactant therapy; there were 12 (5%) neonatal deaths. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed a slightly increased risk of respiratory morbidity with increased interval from administration to delivery (OR–0.87 for 8–14 days, 1.79 for 15–21 days and 0.16 for 22–28 days).

Conclusion

The risk of respiratory distress in preterm newborns increases beyond 2 weeks interval between antenatal corticosteroid administration and delivery.

How to cite this article

Guruvare S, Basu B, Rai L, Lewis L, Hebbar S, Adiga P. Relationship of Time Interval between Antenatal Corticosteroid Administrations to Delivery with Respiratory Distress in Preterm Newborns. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2015;6(3): 128-132.
Technical Note: Testing an improved index for analysing storm discharge–concentration hysteresis
Authors: Lloyd C. E. M. , Freer J. E. , Johnes P. J. , Collins A. L.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Analysis of hydrochemical behaviour during storm events can provide new insights into the process controls on nutrient transport in catchments. The examination of storm behaviours using hysteresis analysis has increased in recent years, partly due to the increased availability of high temporal resolution data sets for discharge and water quality parameters. A number of these analyses involve the use of an index to describe the characteristics of a hysteresis loop in order to compare storm behaviours both within and between catchments. This technical note reviews the methods for calculation of the hysteresis index (HI) and explores a new more effective methodology. Each method is systematically tested and the impact of the chosen calculation on the results is examined. Recommendations are made regarding the most effective method of calculating a HI which can be used for comparing data between storms and between different water quality parameters and catchments.
Characterization of a complex near-surface structure using well logging and passive seismic measurements
Authors: Benjumea Beatriz , Macau Albert , Gabàs Anna , Figueras Sara
Published: February 2016

Abstract. We combine geophysical well logging and passive seismic measurements to characterize the near surface geology of an area located in Hontomin, Burgos (Spain). This area has some near-surface challenges for a geophysical study. The irregular topography is characterized by limestone outcrops and unconsolidated sediments areas. Additionally, the near surface geology includes an upper layer of pure limestones overlying marly limestones and marls (Upper Cretaceous). These materials lie on top of Low Cretaceous siliciclastic sediments (sandstones, clays, gravels). In any case, decreasing seismic velocity with depth is expected. The geophysical datasets used in this study include sonic and gamma ray logs at two boreholes and passive seismic measurements: 224 H/V stations and 3 arrays. Well logging data defines two significant changes in the P-wave velocity log within the Upper Cretaceous layer and one more at the Upper to Lower Cretaceous contact. This technique has also used for refining the geological interpretation. The passive seismic measurements provide a map of sediment thickness with maximum of around 40 m and shear-wave velocity profiles from the array technique. A comparison between seismic velocity coming from well logging and array measurements defines the resolution limits of the passive seismic techniques and helps for its interpretation. This study shows how these low-cost techniques can provide useful information about near-surface complexity that could be used for designing a geophysical field survey or for seismic processing steps such as statics or imaging.
Joint interpretation of magnetotelluric, seismic and well-log data in Hontomín (Spain)
Authors: Ogaya X. , Alcalde J. , Marzán I. , Ledo J. , Queralt P. , Marcuello A. , Martí D. , Saura E. , Carbonell R. , Benjumea B.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Hontomín (N of Spain) hosts the first Spanish CO2 storage pilot plant. The subsurface characterisation of the site included the acquisition of a 3D seismic reflection and a circumscribed 3D magnetotelluric (MT) survey. This paper addresses the combination of the seismic and MT results, together with the available well-log data, in order to achieve a better characterisation of the Hontomín subsurface. We compare the structural model obtained from the interpretation of the seismic data with the geoelectrical model resulting from the MT data. The models corr elate well in the surroundings of the CO2 injection area with the major structural observed related to the presence of faults. The combination of the two methods allowed a more detailed characterisation of the faults, defining their structural and fluid flow characteristics, which is key for the risk assessment of the storage site. Moreover, we use the well-log data of the existing wells to derive resistivity-velocity relationships for the subsurface formations and compute a 3D velocity model of the site using the 3D resistivity model as a reference. The derived velocity model is compared to both the predicted and logged velocity in the injection and monitoring wells, for an overall assessment of the resistivity-velocity relationships computed. Finally, the derived velocity model is compared in the near surface with the velocity model used for the static corrections in the seismic data. The results allowed extracting information about the characteristics of the shallow subsurface, enhancing the presence of clays and water content variations. The good correlation of t he velocity models and well-log data demonstrate the potential of the two methods for characterising the subsurface, in terms of its physical properties (velocity, resistivity) and structural/reservoir characteristics. This work explores the compatibility of the seismic and magnetotelluric methods across scales highlighting the importance of joint interpretation in reservoir characterisation.
Potential climate-induced distributions of Lophodermium needle cast across central Siberia in the 21 century
Authors: Tchebakova N. M. , Kuzmina N. A. , Parfenova E. I. , Senashova V. A. , Kuzmin S. R.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Needle cast caused by fungi of the genus Lophodermium Chevall. is a common disease in pine trees in Siberia. Regression analyses relating needle cast events to climatic variables in 1997–2010 showed that the disease depended most on precipitation of two successive years. Temperature conditions were important to trigger the disease in wetter years. We used our regional bioclimatic envelope model and IPCC scenarios to model the needle cast distribution and its outbreaks in the 21st century. In a warming climate, the needle cast range would shift northwards. By 2020, needle cast outbreaks would already have damaged the largest forest areas. But outbreak areas would decrease by 2080 because the ranges of modeled pathogen and Scots pine, the disease host, would separate: the host tree progression would be halted by the slower permafrost retreat, which would in turn halt the potential pathogen progression.
The Open Wounds of Being:
Authors: Eze Chielozona
Published: February 2016

The poet Patricia Jabbeh Wesley acknowledged in an interview that her primary goal in poetry is to immortalize the suffering of her people. What exactly does she mean by that? What are the implications of remembering suffering, of keeping sorrows alive, especially in narratives? This article explores these questions in light of Primo Levi's envisaged moral obligation to bear testimony to the victims of the Jewish holocaust, as well as Giorgio Agamben's thoughts on that episode. I argue that ethics is central to Jabbeh Wesley's poetics. The poet has a calling: the moral responsibility to bear testimony to the dead and the dispossessed. I will discuss Jabbeh Wesley's poems as both a tribute to the dead and as an appeal to the living to change their lives. To situate my discussions of Jabbeh Wesley and Levi, I will revisit the ethical implications of Aristotle's definition of tragedy.
Environmental Shaw
Authors: Dukore Bernard F.
Published: February 2016

One subject for which the prolific Bernard Shaw is not known is the environment. He called attention to air pollution by factory smoke and deplored smoking tobacco. Aiming to eliminate or reduce the malignant effects of slums on health and life, he wrote, spoke, and acted on sanitation and other health problems. He opposed quarrying and was a pioneer in seeking sources of energy that were alternatives to coal. He addressed and tried to remedy environmental and public health problems, which are often interrelated and cannot be easily demarcated. Two decades after his death in 1950, the environmentalist movement took hold.
An Imperfect Butlerite Aging and Embodiment in Back to Methuselah
Authors: Clifton Glenn
Published: February 2016

This article traces Shaw's modifications of Samuel Butler's evolutionary theory, demonstrating that Shaw diverged significantly from the thinking of the author he credited as his inspiration. The difference between Shaw and Butler emerges from opposed understandings of the role of embodiment—a condition that Shaw's play cycle Back to Methuselah seeks to transcend altogether.
Fiction and Fact in Shaw's Account of Major Barbara's Salvation Army Origins
Authors: Albert Sidney P.
Published: February 2016

On various occasions over the years, Shaw supplied an authoritative account of how he came to think of and write Major Barbara—especially with respect to its Salvation Army sources. But his dramatic imagination colored his recollection of events and their reconstruction. Shaw's account of the drama's composition is not only incomplete but defective, requiring a sorting out of fact from fiction. This article by the late Sidney P. Albert contributes toward that end, while also making available for the first time the sheet music of the actual Salvation Army march Shaw had in mind for use in its production.
The Ennobling of a “Folk Tradition” and the Disempowerment of the Performers: Celebrations and Appropriations of Bāul-Fakir Identity in West Bengal1
Authors: Krakauer Benjamin
Published: February 2016

This paper explores the ways in which Bengali Bāul-Fakirs are imagined and celebrated by affluent audiences, for whom they form a powerful, if contested, sign of Bengali cultural heritage and identity. I argue that as Bāul-Fakirs become increasingly important symbols in affluent Bengalis’ constructions of identity, it is increasingly difficult for individuals to live up to idealized notions of what it means to be Bāul-Fakir. More broadly, I argue that the celebration or ennobling of a low-status “folk tradition” by the affluent classes can be ultimately disempowering to the poor and working-class individual practitioners of that tradition.
To “Enlighten And Beautify”: Western Music and the Modern Project of Personhood in Albania, c. 1906–1924
Authors: Tochka Nicholas
Published: February 2016

Between 1920 and 1924, self-described progressives began importing and promoting western concert music in order to “civilize” Albania’s population. Questions of sovereignty, civilization, and government came to be intermeshed in their plans “to enlighten and beautify the soul of the individual.” This article demonstrates how progressives introduced into Albanian politics the modern project of personhood through their concern for the individual. In doing this, I suggest how ethnomusicologists’ concern with the construction and performance of nominalist categories of identity may be extended in order to critically historicize the emergence of the modern project of being.
The Quest for the Historical Abstract Expressionism
Authors: Siedell Daniel A.
Published: February 2016

What makes any definition of a movement in art dubious is that it never fits the deepest artists in the movement-certainly not as well as, if successful, it does the others.

—Harold Rosenberg, 1952
Effecting Affection: The Corporeal Ethics of Gins and Arakawa
Authors: BEARN GORDON C. F.
Published: February 2016

No one has yet determined what the body can do …

—Spinoza, Ethics, 1677, Part III, proposition 2, Scholium
The Aesthetic and the Spiritual Attitude in Learning: Lessons from Simone Weil
Authors: CARANFA ANGELO
Published: February 2016

The beautiful is something on which we can fix our attention …. The attitude of looking and waiting is the attitude which corresponds with the beautiful.

—Simone Weil

Attention, taken to its highest degree, is the same thing as prayer.

—Simone Weil, Gravity and Grace
Deleuze’s New Meno: On Learning, Time, and Thought
Authors: Dejanovic Sanja
Published: February 2016

In Difference and Repetition (1968), Gilles Deleuze calls for a new Meno. The Meno is one of the Platonic dialogues in which Socrates asserts that learning is recollection. While Deleuze’s central philosophical writing has not been interpreted as a text on learning, his treatment of Plato’s Meno cannot be reduced to the dominant theme pervading much of his thought: that of overturning Platonism. Indeed, the call for a new Meno signals the overturning of Platonism, but it requires the development of a theory of learning that renders it possible to begin with. If learning is not one of the central themes of Difference and Repetition, on what basis can Deleuze claim to have conjured up a new Meno? Deleuze’s argument is that learning or apprenticeship is oriented toward the future, rather than the past. In other words, a new Meno arises along with Deleuze’s philosophy of time, which is the most powerful theme pervading Difference and Repetition. But the argument that learning is oriented toward the future does not originate with Difference and Repetition. It is developed by Deleuze in his earlier work Proust and Signs (1964).
Confucius on the Relationship of Beauty and Goodness
Authors: Fu Xiaowei , Wang Yi
Published: February 2016

The ideology about the relation between goodness and beauty for Confucius and the early Confucians is the continuation of the aesthetic tradition long before Confucius’s time, which sees more value in Yuejiao, namely, music/beauty education, than in Lijiao, Moral education. No doubt Confucius’s aesthetic idea is featured as the juxtaposition of Li and Yue, goodness and beauty. But we must not forget that Confucius, taking himself as a preserver of the sages’ tradition, personally values Yue (music/beauty) over Li (ritual/moral). It is in this context that we argue that taking the unity of beauty and goodness as a Confucian aesthetic feature is a misinterpretation of his teaching and is poles apart from the ancient Chinese aesthetic tradition and from Confucius’ aesthetics.