bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Researching Children: Are We Getting it Right?: A Discussion of Ethics
Authors: Nairn Agnes , Clarke Barbie
Published: May 2012

As the role of children in society becomes more prominent, their participation in research seems set to increase. In this paper we review whether we are getting the ethics of children's research right. We show that, since the late 1980s, children have been treated universally as a special case and that they have been accorded their own special set of human rights (UNCRC), which primarily grants them rights to protection and participation. We go on to argue (with practical examples) that the core MRS research principles of well-being, voluntary informed consent and privacy/confidentiality must be applied to children with particular caution and care. We note that, as research with children grows and as new techniques are developed, we are presented with fresh challenges for keeping children safe and maintaining their trust. We end by presenting the results of a survey that sought children's views on being research participants in a quite sensitive piece of research. We found that children are highly appreciative of being consulted about their lives in general and being asked about their feelings. However we also found that some children can be uncomfortable with some of the issues raised and can feel compelled to answer the questions. We conclude that, while we have good industry codes, ethics evolves with shifting social, political and cultural patterns, and we need to keep challenging ourselves to maintain best practice.
Using Supermarket Loyalty Card Data to Analyse the Impact of Promotions
Authors: Felgate Melanie , Fearne Andrew , DiFalco Salvatore , Martinez Marian Garcia
Published: May 2012

The aim of this paper is to show how supermarket loyalty card data from a panel of over 1.4 million shoppers can be used to analyse the effect of price promotions in a way which can bring significant advantages to retailers and manufacturers when making promotional decisions. The paper demonstrates the significant advantages that loyalty card data can bring to enhance our understanding of promotions, compared to traditional scanner and panel datasets. Regression analysis is used to compare the effects of different promotional mechanics upon different tiers of product across the fresh beef category in Tesco, using both scanner data and loyalty card data. The results show that using loyalty card data, which enables us to moderate for specific shopper characteristics, produces more statistically significant results and provides a more detailed picture of how promotions influence sales.
How Respondents Use Verbal and Numeric Rating Scales: A Case for Rescaling
Authors: Bendixen Michael , Yurova Yuliya
Published: May 2012

The dominant practice among researchers is to treat verbal rating scales as interval in nature because of the vast array of analytical techniques that this opens up when it comes to analysis. This practice prevails despite warnings to the contrary that go back over half a century. A similar assumption seems safer when it comes to numeric rating scales. This paper revisits the issue to caution researchers to use only methods appropriate to the level of the data unless the proper rescaling is employed. The change in chi-square technique is developed to supplement rescaling using correspondence analysis, to uncover how scales are used by respondents. These techniques are applied to a sample that uses a verbal scale and three samples that use numeric rating scales. In all cases, the assumption of interval behaviour of the data proves to be a poor one. Rescaling is found to preserve the association among the variables. Strong evidence that rescaling changes the distribution of the variables leading to changes in the meaning of basic descriptive statistics is provided. Further research in this area and in the field of cross-cultural research is suggested.
The Association of State Policy Attributes With Teachers’ Instructional Alignment
Authors: Polikoff Morgan S.
Published: May 2012

States vary greatly in their implementation of standards-based accountability under No Child Left Behind, yet little evidence is available to guide policymakers on what attributes of state policy advance more tightly aligned instruction. This study uses survey data and content analyses from the Surveys of Enacted Curriculum to describe elements of state policy that are associated with tighter alignment between teacher-reported instruction and state standards and assessments. The author reports substantial variation on policy attributes across states, with increasing use of power (rewards and sanctions) and low overall consistency between standards and assessments. Several of the policy attributes are related to instructional alignment, with the strongest fit in mathematics.
A Potential Role for Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in the Development of Insulin Resistance in Horses
Authors: Suagee Jessica K. , Corl Benjamin A. , Geor Raymond J.
Published: May 2012

Understanding the mechanisms involved in the development of insulin resistance in horses should enable development of effective treatment and prevention strategies. Current knowledge of these mechanisms is based upon research in obese humans and rodents, in which there is evidence that the increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by adipose tissue negatively influences insulin signaling in insulin-responsive tissues. In horses, plasma concentrations of the cytokine, tumor necrosis factor-α, have been positively correlated with body fatness and insulin resistance, leading to the hypothesis that inflammation may reduce insulin sensitivity in horses. However, little evidence has documented a tissue site of production and a direct link between inflammation and induction of insulin resistance has not been established. Several mechanisms are reviewed in this article, including the potential for macrophage infiltration, hyperinsulinemia, hypoxia, and lipopolysaccharide to increase pro-inflammatory cytokine production by adipose tissue of obese horses. Clearly defining the role of cytokines in reduced insulin sensitivity of horses will be a very important step in determining how obesity and insulin resistance are related.
Combined Structure-Based Pharmacophore and 3D-QSAR Studies on Phenylalanine Series Compounds as TPH1 Inhibitors
Authors: Ouyang Liang , He Gu , Huang Wei , Song Xiangrong , Wu Fengbo , Xiang Mingli
Published: May 2012

Tryptophan hydroxylase-1 (TPH1) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of serotonin. As a neurotransmitter, serotonin plays important physiological roles both peripherally and centrally. In this study, a combination of ligand-based and structure-based methods is used to clarify the essential quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) of known TPH1 inhibitors. A multicomplex-based pharmacophore (MCBP) guided method has been suggested to generate a comprehensive pharmacophore of TPH1 kinase based on three crystal structures of TPH1-inhibitor complex. This model has been successfully used to identify the bioactive conformation and align 32 structurally diverse substituted phenylalanine derivatives. The QSAR analyses have been performed on these TPH1 inhibitors based on the MCBP guided alignment. These results may provide important information for further design and virtual screening of novel TPH1 inhibitors.
Correction: Self-Assembling Peptide Surfactants A6K and A6D Adopt a-Helical Structures Useful for Membrane Protein Stabilization. Membranes 2011, 1, 314-326
Authors: Oglęcka Kamila , Zhuang Furen , Hauser Charlotte A. E.
Published: May 2012

We would like to request a correction to the author listing. The following changes should be made in respect to the original publication of this article [1]. [...]
Glycosylation of Vanillin and 8-Nordihydrocapsaicin by Cultured Eucalyptus perriniana Cells
Authors: Sato Daisuke , Eshita Yuki , Katsuragi Hisashi , Hamada Hiroki , Shimoda Kei , Kubota Naoji
Published: May 2012

Glycosylation of vanilloids such as vanillin and 8-nordihydrocapsaicin by cultured plant cells of Eucalyptus perriniana was studied. Vanillin was converted into vanillin 4-O-b-D-glucopyranoside, vanillyl alcohol, and 4-O-b-D-glucopyranosylvanillyl alcohol by E. perriniana cells. Incubation of cultured E. perriniana cells with 8-nor- dihydrocapsaicin gave 8-nordihydrocapsaicin 4-O-b-D-glucopyranoside and 8-nordihydro- capsaicin 4-O-b-D-gentiobioside.
A Novel “Reactomics” Approach for Cancer Diagnostics
Authors: Kolusheva Sofiya , Yossef Rami , Kugel Aleksandra , Hanin-Avraham Nirit , Cohen Meital , Rubin Eitan , Porgador Angel
Published: May 2012

Non-invasive detection and monitoring of lethal diseases, such as cancer, are considered as effective factors in treatment and survival. We describe a new disease diagnostic approach, denoted “reactomics”, based upon reactions between blood sera and an array of vesicles comprising different lipids and polydiacetylene (PDA), a chromatic polymer. We show that reactions between sera and such a lipid/PDA vesicle array produce chromatic patterns which depend both upon the sera composition as well as the specific lipid constituents within the vesicles. The chromatic patterns were processed through machine-learning algorithms, and the bioinformatics analysis could distinguish both between cancer-bearing and healthy patients, respectively, as well between two types of cancers. Size-separation and enzymatic digestion experiments indicate that lipoproteins are the primary components in sera which react with the chromatic biomimetic vesicles. This colorimetric reactomics concept is highly generic, robust, and does not require a priori knowledge upon specific disease markers in sera. Therefore, it could be employed as complementary or alternative approach for disease diagnostics.
The Release of Immunosuppressive Factor(s) in Young Males Following Exercise
Authors: Tian Ye , Nie Jinlei , Tong Tom K. , Baker Julien S.
Published: May 2012

It has been shown that a suppressive protein, acting as an immune suppressor, is generated in animals and humans under particular stresses. However, studies related to immunosuppressive factors in response to the stress resulting from acute exercise are limited. This study compares the effects of pre- and post-exercise human serum on concanavalin A stimulated lymphocyte proliferation of mice. In the present study, blood samples in eight male undergraduates (age 21 ± 0.7 years) were taken before and immediately after ten sets of exercise consisting of 15 free and 30 10-kg loaded squat jumps in each set. The suppression of lymphocyte proliferation was analysed with high pressure liquid chromatography. It was noted from the result of gel chromatography columns that the post-exercise values of the suppression of lymphocyte proliferation, in comparison to corresponding pre-exercise values, were generally greater with significant differences observed in 7.5th–9th min post-exercise eluates (P < 0.05). Such findings suggest that intense eccentric type exercise may lead to generation of immunosuppressive factor(s) in young males.
Glycopeptide-Based Antibody Detection in Multiple Sclerosis by Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Real-Fernández Feliciana , Passalacqua Irene , Peroni Elisa , Chelli Mario , Lolli Francesco , Papini Anna Maria , Rovero Paolo
Published: May 2012

In multiple sclerosis (MS) the gold standard for the diagnosis and prognosis is, up to now, the use of magnetic resonance imaging markers. No alternative simpler assays proven of use, except for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, have been provided in MS diagnosis. Therefore, there is a need to develop non-invasive, sensitive, simple new techniques for the clinical routine. Herein we present the evaluation of the feasibility of a glycopeptide-based biosensor to detect MS specific antibodies in sera using the surface plasmon resonance technology. The previously described glycopeptide antigen CSF114(Glc) has been immobilized on a gold sensor chip and the method has been optimized for real-time specific autoantibody detection directly in sera. A population of 60 healthy blood donors and 61 multiple sclerosis patients has been screened. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC)-based analysis has established the optimal diagnostic cut-off value for the method obtaining a sensitivity of 36% and a specificity of 95%. Sample sera have been also screened with a previously validated ELISA.
Robust Foreground Detection: A Fusion of Masked GreyWorld, Probabilistic Gradient Information and Extended Conditional Random Field Approach
Authors: Zulkifley Mohd Asyraf , Moran Bill , Rawlinson David
Published: May 2012

Foreground detection has been used extensively in many applications such as people counting, traffic monitoring and face recognition. However, most of the existing detectors can only work under limited conditions. This happens because of the inability of the detector to distinguish foreground and background pixels, especially in complex situations. Our aim is to improve the robustness of foreground detection under sudden and gradual illumination change, colour similarity issue, moving background and shadow noise. Since it is hard to achieve robustness using a single model, we have combined several methods into an integrated system. The masked grey world algorithm is introduced to handle sudden illumination change. Colour co-occurrence modelling is then fused with the probabilistic edge-based background modelling. Colour co-occurrence modelling is good infiltering moving background and robust to gradual illumination change, while an edge-based modelling is used for solving a colour similarity problem. Finally, an extended conditional random field approach is used to filter out shadow and afterimage noise. Simulation results show that our algorithm performs better compared to the existing methods, which makes it suitable for higher-level applications.
Municipal Added Value through Solar Power Systems in the City of Freiburg
Authors: Funcke Simon
Published: May 2012

The transformation of the conventional energy system towards renewable energies has entailed an increasing decentralization of energy generation in Germany, as the production units are smaller and draw on regional potentials. This can result in positive socio-economic effects in regions where the potential is exploited. The focus of this paper lies on evaluating existing methods and developing new ones, which can be used to determine local added value through renewable energy systems. The methods were required to cover direct as well as induced municipal added value effects and to include all steps of the examined value chain. A combination of methods was tested in a case study for the solar power system value chain in the city of Freiburg (ca. 220,000 inhabitants). The added value through this sector in the year 2009 was calculated at 30.8 million euros through direct effects and 6.2 million euros through induced effects. This total municipal added value of 37 million euros can be converted into roughly 1,500 jobs within the city boundaries. Based on some conservative assumptions, these numbers should be considered as minimum values.
A Comparative Analysis of Percutaneous and Open Surgical Techniques for Peritoneal Catheter Placement
Authors: Medani Samar , Shantier Mohamed , Hussein Wael , Wall Catherine , Mellotte George
Published: May 2012

♦Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the preferred available option of renal replacement therapy for a significant number of end-stage kidney disease patients. A major limiting factor to the successful continuation of PD is the long-term viability of the PD catheter (PDC). Bedside percutaneous placement of the PDC is not commonly practiced despite published data encouraging use of this technique. Its advantages include faster recovery and avoidance of general anesthesia.

♦ Methods

We carried out a retrospective analysis of the outcomes of 313 PDC insertions at our center, comparing all percutaneous PDC insertions between July 1998 and April 2010 (group P, n = 151) with all surgical PDC insertions between January 2003 and April 2010 (group S, n = 162).

♦ Results

Compared with group P patients, significantly more group S patients had undergone previous abdominal surgery or PDC insertion (41.8% vs 9.3% and 33.3% vs 3.3% respectively, p = 0.00). More exit-site leaks occurred in group P than in group S (20.5% vs 6.8%, p = 0.002). The overall incidence of peritonitis was higher in group S than in group P (1 episode in 19 catheter–months vs 1 episode in 26 catheter–months, p = 0.017), but the groups showed no significant difference in the peritonitis rate within 1 month of catheter insertion (5% in group P vs 7.4% in group S, p = 0.4) or in poor initial drainage or secondary drainage failure (9.9% vs 11.7%, p = 0.1, and 7.9% vs 12.3%, p = 0.38, for groups P and S respectively). Technical survival at 3 months was significantly better for group P than for group S (86.6% vs 77%, p = 0.037); at 12 months, it was 77.7% and 68.7% respectively ( p = 0.126). No life-threatening complications attributable to the insertion of the PDC occurred in either group.

♦ Conclusions

Our analysis demonstrates further encouraging outcomes of percutaneous PDC placement compared with open surgical placement. However, the members of the percutaneous insertion group were primarily a selected subset of patients without prior abdominal surgery or PDC insertion, therefore limiting the comparability of the groups. Studies addressing such confounding factors are required. Local expertise in catheter placement techniques may affect the generalizability of results.
Peritoneal Dialysis in Childhood Acute Kidney Injury: Experience in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Ademola Adebowale Dele , Asinobi Adanze Onyenonachi , Ogunkunle Oluwatoyin Olufunmilayo , Yusuf Bamidele Nurudeen , Ojo Olalekan Ezekiel
Published: May 2012

Background

The choices for renal replacement therapy (RRT) in childhood acute kidney injury (AKI) are limited in low-resource settings. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) appears to be the most practical modality for RRT in young children with AKI in such settings. Data from sub-Saharan Africa on the use of PD in childhood AKI are few.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of children who underwent PD for AKI at a tertiary-care hospital in southwest Nigeria from February 2004 to March 2011 (85 months).

Results

The study included 27 children (55.6% female). Mean age was 3.1 ± 2.6 years, with the youngest being 7 days, and the oldest, 9 years. The causes of AKI were intravascular hemolysis ( n = 11), septicemia ( n = 8), acute glomerulonephritis ( n = 3), gastroenteritis ( n = 3), and hemolytic uremic syndrome ( n = 2). Peritoneal dialysis was performed manually using percutaneous or adapted catheters. Duration of PD ranged from 6 hours to 12 days (mean: 5.0 ± 3.3 days). The main complications were peritonitis ( n = 10), pericatheter leakage ( n = 9), and catheter outflow obstruction ( n = 5). Of the 27 patients, 19 (70%) survived till discharge.

Conclusions

In low-resource settings, PD can be successfully performed for the management of childhood AKI. In our hospital, the use of adapted catheters may have contributed to the high complication rates. Peritoneal dialysis should be promoted for the management of childhood AKI in low-resource settings, and access to percutaneous or Tenckhoff catheters, dialysis fluid, and automated PD should be increased.
Ultraviolet photodetection of flexible ZnO nanowire sheets in polydimethylsiloxane polymer
Authors: Liu Jinzhang , Motta Nunzio , Lee Soonil
Published: May 2012

ZnO nanowires are normally exposed to an oxygen atmosphere to achieve high performance in UV photodetection. In this work we present results on a UV photodetector fabricated using a flexible ZnO nanowire sheet embedded in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a gas-permeable polymer, showing reproducible UV photoresponse and enhanced photoconduction. PDMS coating results in a reduced response speed compared to that of a ZnO nanowire film in air. The rising speed is slightly reduced, while the decay time is prolonged by about a factor of four. We conclude that oxygen molecules diffusing in PDMS are responsible for the UV photoresponse.
Functionalised zinc oxide nanowire gas sensors: Enhanced NO2 gas sensor response by chemical modification of nanowire surfaces
Authors: Waclawik Eric R , Chang Jin , Ponzoni Andrea , Concina Isabella , Zappa Dario , Comini Elisabetta , Motta Nunzio , Faglia Guido , Sberveglieri Giorgio
Published: May 2012

Surface coating with an organic self-assembled monolayer (SAM) can enhance surface reactions or the absorption of specific gases and hence improve the response of a metal oxide (MOx) sensor toward particular target gases in the environment. In this study the effect of an adsorbed organic layer on the dynamic response of zinc oxide nanowire gas sensors was investigated. The effect of ZnO surface functionalisation by two different organic molecules, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (THMA) and dodecanethiol (DT), was studied. The response towards ammonia, nitrous oxide and nitrogen dioxide was investigated for three sensor configurations, namely pure ZnO nanowires, organic-coated ZnO nanowires and ZnO nanowires covered with a sparse layer of organic-coated ZnO nanoparticles. Exposure of the nanowire sensors to the oxidising gas NO2 produced a significant and reproducible response. ZnO and THMA-coated ZnO nanowire sensors both readily detected NO2 down to a concentration in the very low ppm range. Notably, the THMA-coated nanowires consistently displayed a small, enhanced response to NO2 compared to uncoated ZnO nanowire sensors. At the lower concentration levels tested, ZnO nanowire sensors that were coated with THMA-capped ZnO nanoparticles were found to exhibit the greatest enhanced response. ΔR/R was two times greater than that for the as-prepared ZnO nanowire sensors. It is proposed that the ΔR/R enhancement in this case originates from the changes induced in the depletion-layer width of the ZnO nanoparticles that bridge ZnO nanowires resulting from THMA ligand binding to the surface of the particle coating. The heightened response and selectivity to the NO2 target are positive results arising from the coating of these ZnO nanowire sensors with organic-SAM-functionalised ZnO nanoparticles.
Sonogashira–Hagihara reactions of halogenated glycals
Authors: Koester Dennis C , Werz Daniel B
Published: May 2012

Herein, we report on our findings of the Sonogashira–Hagihara reaction with 1-iodinated and 2-brominated glycals using several aromatic and aliphatic alkynes. This Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling reaction presents a facile access to alkynyl C-glycosides and sets the stage for a reductive/oxidative refunctionalization of the enyne moiety to regenerate either C-glycosidic structures or pyran derivatives with a substituent in position 2.
2009H1N1 Influenza in Immunocompetent and Immunocompromised Patients
Authors: Moss Ronald B.
Published: May 2012

The treatment and prevention of influenza virus infection has been associated with two major challenges that are exemplified by 2009H1N1 as well as previous pandemics. The constant evolutionary pressure on the influenza virus can result in novel strains which may not be optimally protected by vaccines or currently approved antivirals. Selection for antiviral resistance mutations can occur over time. Prolonged virus shedding, selection for resistance mutations, and cross resistance, can be exacerbated and problematic in immunocompromised patients. This review will cover 2009H1N1 infection in immuno-competent and immunocompromised individuals. Influenza continues to be a major public health concern and these challenges make influenza a suitable area for new vaccine and antiviral approaches.
Water Treatment and Handwashing Behaviors among Non-Pregnant Friends and Relatives of Participants in an Antenatal Hygiene Promotion Program in Malawi
Authors: Russo Elizabeth T. , Sheth Anandi , Menon Manoj , Wannemuehler Kathleen , Weinger Merri , Kudzala Amose C. , Tauzie Blessius , Masuku Humphreys D. , Msowoya Tapona E. , Quick Robert
Published: May 2012

Access to safe drinking water and improved hygiene are essential for preventing diarrheal diseases. To integrate hygiene improvement with antenatal care, free hygiene kits (water storage containers, water treatment solution, soap) and educational messages were distributed to pregnant women at antenatal clinics in Malawi. We assessed water treatment and hygiene practices of 275 non-pregnant friends and relatives of the hygiene kit recipients at baseline and follow-up nine months later to measure program impact on non-participants in the same communities. At follow-up, friends and relatives who did not receive kits or education were more likely than at baseline to purchase and use water treatment solution (25% versus 1%; P < 0.0001) and demonstrate correct handwashing practices (60% versus 18%; P < 0.0001). This antenatal clinic–based program resulted in improved water treatment and hygiene behaviors among non-pregnant friends and relatives living in the same communities as hygiene kit recipients, suggesting that program benefits extended beyond direct beneficiaries.
Modifiable Risk Factors for West Nile Virus Infection during an Outbreak—Arizona, 2010
Authors: Gibney Katherine B. , Colborn James , Baty Steven , Bunko Patterson Andrean M. , Sylvester Tammy , Briggs Graham , Stewart Tasha , Levy Craig , Komatsu Ken , MacMillan Katherine , Delorey Mark J. , Mutebi John-Paul , Fischer Marc , Staples J. Erin
Published: May 2012

West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States; however, risk factors for infection are poorly defined. We performed a case-control study to identify modifiable risk factors for WNV infection. Case-patients (N = 49) had laboratory evidence of recent WNV infection, whereas control-subjects (N = 74) had negative WNV serology. We interviewed participants, surveyed households, and assessed environmental data. WNV infection was associated with living in or near Water District X within Gilbert Township (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.2; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.5–18.1), having water-holding containers in their yard (aOR 5.0; 95% CI = 1.5–17.3), and not working or attending school outside the home (aOR 2.4; 95% CI = 1.1–5.5). During this outbreak, WNV infection was likely primarily acquired peri-domestically with increased risk associated with potential mosquito larval habitats around the home and neighborhood.
First Case of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis in Suriname
Authors: Hu Ricardo V. P. F. , Kent Alida D. , Adams Emily R. , van der Veer Charlotte , Sabajo Leslie O. A. , Mans Dennis R. A. , de Vries Henry J. C. , Schallig Henk D. F. H. , Fat Rudy F. M. Lai A.
Published: May 2012

The main causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Suriname is Leishmania (Viannia) guyanensis. This case report presents a patient infected with Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, a species never reported before in Suriname. This finding has clinical implications, because L. braziliensis has a distinct clinical phenotype characterized by mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, a more extensive and destructive form of CL that requires different treatment. Clinicians should be aware that chronic cutaneous ulcers in patients from the Guyana region could be caused by L. braziliensis.
Rapid Implementation of Inpatient Electronic Physician Documentation at an Academic Hospital
Authors: Bernstein J.A. , McKenzie R.B. , King B.J. , Longhurst C.A. , Hahn J.S.
Published: May 2012

Electronic physician documentation is an essential element of a complete electronic medical record (EMR). At Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, a teaching hospital affiliated with Stanford University, we implemented an inpatient electronic documentation system for physicians over a 12-month period. Using an EMR-based free-text editor coupled with automated import of system data elements, we were able to achieve voluntary, widespread adoption of the electronic documentation process. When given the choice between electronic versus dictated report creation, the vast majority of users preferred the electronic method. In addition to increasing the legibility and accessibility of clinical notes, we also decreased the volume of dictated notes and scanning of handwritten notes, which provides the opportunity for cost savings to the institution.
Artifacts, Pitfalls and Normal Variants
Authors: Rocha Frederico , Zalud Ivica
Published: May 2012

Image artifacts are encountered daily in clinical ultrasonography and may be a source of confusion for the interpreting sonologist. The understanding of the mechanisms behind their production allows recognition of artifacts and avoids misinterpretations and incorrect diagnoses. Some artifacts may be avoidable and arise secondary to improper scanning technique. Other artifacts are generated by the physical limitations of the modality.

Recognition of artifacts in everyday work is of great significance for final diagnosis, since their erroneous interpretation not only compromises the value of ultrasound finding, but may also lead to an inadequate therapeutic approach.

The objective of this article is to describe and illustrate many of the ultrasound artifacts commonly encountered in obstetrical and gynecological ultrasound including Doppler and 3D imaging artifacts.

How to cite this article

Zalud I, Rocha F. Artifacts, Pitfalls and Normal Variants. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012;6(1):1-8.
Prenatal Diagnosis and Postnatal Follow-up of Patients with Persistent Right Umbilical Vein
Authors: Leal Daniel Beovide , Maggiolini Magela , Bianchi Ana
Published: May 2012

Objective

Through a prospective study the incidence and neonatal results of patients with persistent right umbilical vein are evaluated.

Materials and methods

During the period between August 2009 and February 2011, 3,576 low-risk obstetric sonographies were performed by the same technician at four different centers of prenatal diagnosis. Persistent right umbilical vein was diagnosed during a customary ultrasound examination, in the abdominal transverse section used to measure abdominal perimeter. Patients were asked to bring their children several months after delivery for a clinical and sonographic evaluation.

Results

Persistent right umbilical vein was found in nine fetuses. In one case, it was associated with single umbilical artery. All fetuses had good growth and development. In some children, the postnatal sonography showed the gallbladder toward the left of falciform ligament.

Conclusion

The incidence of persistent right umbilical vein in this population was of 1:397. We did not find any association with severe malformations as mentioned in the first articles related to this topic. There was only one case with single umbilical artery. All newborns developed normally. The question is raised why, being this anomaly so frequent and obvious, it is not more often diagnosed. Gallbladder position in respect to falciform ligament is a finding to assess.

How to cite this article

Leal DB, Maggiolini M, Bianchi A. Prenatal Diagnosis and Postnatal Follow-up of Patients with Persistent Right Umbilical Vein. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012;6(1):104-108.
4D Sonography in Assessment of Fetal Neurobehavior
Authors: Tanaka Hirokazu , Sato Miki
Published: May 2012

‘Observation of fetal behavior reflects the functioning of the central nervous system, and behavioral assessment of the fetus enables the function of the brain to be examined’.1 The introduction of four-dimensional (4D) sonography techniques would facilitate fetal behavioral assessment in three dimensions in real time during pregnancy. We describe the latest 4D sonographic studies on fetal neurobehavior in all three trimesters of pregnancy. 4D sonography also facilitated the evaluation of interhuman contact and intrapair stimulation in twin pregnancies in utero. This novel technique may assist in the evaluation of fetal neurobehavior and intertwin contact and intrapair stimulation and offer potential advantages relative to conventional two-dimensional sonography. 4D sonography may become an important modality in future research on fetal neurobehavioral development and the prenatal identification of severely brain-damaged infants.

How to cite this article

Hata T, Sato M, Kanenishi K, Hanaoka U, Tanaka H. 4D Sonography in Assessment of Fetal Neurobehavior. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012;6(2):121-131.
Ultrasound Assessment of Fetal Neurobehavior in High-risk Pregnancies
Authors: Lebit Daniela , Constantinescu Simona
Published: May 2012

Objectives

Assessment of the fetal behavior in normal and high-risk pregnancy during second and third trimesters.

Materials and methods

The study group included 61 healthy pregnant women and 135 pregnant women with high-risk pregnancy between 24 and 38 weeks of gestation for a period of 3 years (January 2009-May 2011). After 4D ultrasound examination we applied antenatal neurological score KANET 1. Score is considered normal between 14 and 20, borderline between 6 and 13 and abnormal between 0 and 5.

Results

The Kurjak antenatal neurological test (KANET) scores have significant differences, when applied on the two groups of pregnant women. Most fetuses who obtained normal KANET score were found in normal pregnancies, those who obtained borderline score were fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) with increased resistance index (RI) of middle cerebral artery (ACM) and the most fetuses with abnormal KANET score came from pregnancies complicated by threatened preterm delivery with PPROM.

Conclusion

Dynamic evaluation of fetal behavior reflects directly the processes of maturation and development of the central nervous system. This can make the difference between normal and abnormal brain development and may be used for early diagnosis of neurological disorders that become manifest in perinatal and postnatal periods.

How to cite this article

Vladareanu R, Lebit D, Constantinescu S. Ultrasound Assessment of Fetal Neurobehavior in High-risk Pregnancies. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012;6(2):132-147.
Prenatal Beginnings of Temperament Formation–Myth or Reality? Case Study of a Twin Pregnancy
Authors: Honemeyer Ulrich
Published: May 2012

Observation of the fetus in vivo by four-dimensional ultrasound provided abundant material for experimental studies of early neurobehavioral development. Consequently, a new scoring system for fetal neurobehavior, KANET, was created as a standardized, practical and reproducible method for qualitative and quantitative analysis of characteristics of fetal movement patterns. The eight parameters of KANET not only allow a differentiated comparison of fetal behavioral states but also enable prenatal diagnosis of abnormal neurological development. The knowledge that individual temperament is expressed by movement patterns is not new. To find answers to the question when temperament formation might begin, we applied KANET simultaneously at different gestational ages to both fetuses of a dichorionic twin pregnancy, and compared the results with temperament evaluation of both neonates 8 weeks postpartum.

How to cite this article

Honemeyer U, Kurjak A. Prenatal Beginnings of Temperament Formation–Myth or Reality? Case Study of a Twin Pregnancy. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012;6(2):148-153.
4D Sonographic Assessment of Intertwin Contacts
Authors: Andonotopo Wiku , Serra Bernat , Fournier Sofia , Baulies Sonia
Published: May 2012

Objective

To assess the onset and frequency of first interfetal contacts by 4D sonography.

Subjects and methods

Twenty twin pregnancies were scanned transvaginally between 56 (8 weeks) and 69 postmenstrual days (9+6 weeks) and onward transabdominally, at weekly intervals until 112 postmenstrual days (16 weeks). Scans were recorded on DVD and analyzed retrospectively. The moment of onset, type and frequency of intertwin contacts were assessed.

Results

First interhuman contacts were observed between 61 (8+5 weeks) and 68 (9+5 weeks) postmenstrual days. The frequency of different movements varied according to the gestational age. ‘Touch no reaction’ and ‘First reaction’ were common and frequent from 70 postmenstrual days (10 weeks) onward. ‘Slow body movements’ were more common than ‘Fast body movements’. ‘Complex contacts’ were more frequent at 94 postmenstrual days (13+3 weeks). Simple contacts diminished around 100 postmenstrual days (14+2 weeks). ‘Complex contacts’ and ‘diffuse interactions’ were more commonly observed between 105 (15 weeks) and 112 postmenstrual days (16 weeks). No significant differences were found when different gender combinations were compared.

Conclusion

Intertwin contacts start as soon as 8+5 weeks of gestation and complex or diffuse interactions are already seen at 15 to 16 weeks of gestation.

How to cite this article

Prats P, Serra B, Fournier S, Baulies S, Andonotopo W, Kurjak A. 4D Sonographic Assessment of Intertwin Contacts. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012;6(2):154-159.
Comparative Evaluation of Guided Tissue Regeneration with use of Collagen-based Barrier Freeze-Dried Dura Mater Allograft for Mandibular Class 2 Furcation Defects (A Comparative Controlled Clinical Study)
Authors: Agarwal Arvind , Ruparelia Brijesh , Patel Sandeep , Kubavat Ajay
Published: May 2012

Aim

The aim of periodontal surgery is complete regeneration. The present study was designed to evaluate and compare clinically soft tissue changes in form of probing pocket depth, gingival shrinkage, attachment level and hard tissue changes in form of horizontal and vertical bone level using resorbable membranes.

Materials and methods

Twelve subjects with bilateral class 2 furcation defects were selected. After initial phase one treatment, open debridement was performed in control site while freezedried dura mater allograft was used in experimental site. Soft and hard tissue parameters were registered intrasurgically. Nine months reentry ensured better understanding and evaluation of the final outcome of the study.

Results

Guided tissue regeneration is a predictable treatment modality for class 2 furcation defect. There was statistically significant reduction in pocket depth as compared to control (p < 0.01). There is statistically significant increase in periodontal attachment level within control and experimental sites showed better results (p < 0.01). For hard tissue parameter, significant defect fill resulted in experimental group, while in control group, less significant defect fill was found in horizontal direction and nonsignificant defect fill was found in vertical direction.

Conclusion

The results showed statistically significant improvement in soft and hard tissue parameters and less gingival shrinkage in experimental sites compared to control site.

Clinical significance

The use of FDDMA in furcation defects helps us to achieve predictable results. This cross-linked collagen membrane has better handling properties and ease of procurement as well as economic viability making it a logical material to be used in regenerative surgeries.

How to cite this article

Patel S, Kubavat A, Ruparelia B, Agarwal A, Panda A. Comparative Evaluation of Guided Tissue Regeneration with use of Collagen-based Barrier Freeze-Dried Dura Mater Allograft for Mandibular Class 2 Furcation Defects (A Comparative Controlled Clinical Study). J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(1):11-15.
Effect of Smear Layer on the Apical Seal of Endodontically Treated Teeth: An ex vivo Study
Authors: Nischith KG , Srikumar GPV , Razvi Shuaib , Chandra R Vinay
Published: May 2012

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of smear layer on apical seal of endodontically treated teeth.

Materials and methods

Sixty freshly extracted human maxillary central incisor teeth were selected and were randomly divided into two experimental groups. Group A of 25 teeth and group B of 25 teeth and a control group of 10 teeth. Cleaning and shaping of the root canals were performed using endodontic K-files up to no. 50 size file in step-back technique. During the process, in root canals of group A, 17% EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) followed by 3% NaOCl (sodium hypochlorite) was used as root canal irrigant.

In group B, MTAD (mixture tetracycline citric acid and detergent) was used as a root canal irrigant.

In control group, saline was used as root canal irrigant. The root surfaces were then coated with nail polish of both experimental groups and control group. The samples were then immersed in India ink dye for 1 week at 37°C.

Results

The statistical analysis of the results showed that the apical leakage was significantly more in teeth, where smear layer was not removed.

Conclusion

The removal of smear layer improves the longterm apical seal and success of endodontically treated teeth.

Clinical significance

The development and maintenance of apical seal is desirable and considered to be a major prerequisite to improve the outcome of root canal treatment.

How to cite this article

Nischith KG, Srikumar GPV, Razvi S, Chandra RV. Effect of Smear Layer on the Apical Seal of Endodontically Treated Teeth: An ex vivo Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(1):23-26.
Reattachment of Fractured Anterior Teeth—Determining Fracture Strength using Different Techniques: An in vitro Study
Authors: Mathur Ena , LNU Srilatha , Joshi Sonal , Chhasatia Neha , Rani PJ
Published: May 2012

Aim

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the shear bond strength of teeth reattached with sixth generation dentin bonding agent: Xeno III and microhybrid resin composite: Esthet-X, using three different techniques: (1) Simple reattachment, (2) overcontour and (3) internal dentinal groove.

Methodology

A total of 70 human maxillary central incisors were selected and divided into four groups as follows. Group I: Control group comprised of 10 samples. Group II: Simple reattachment, group III: Overcontour and group IV: Internal dentinal groove. Groups II, III and IV comprised of 20 samples each. The teeth in three study groups were sectioned using a diamond disk and the fragment was reattached with Esthet-X and Xeno III using three different techniques. Specimens were stored in tap water for 24 hours and shear bond strength was determined using universal testing machine using a knifeedge chisel (0.5 mm in cross-section) at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/minute.

Results

The results of this study showed following mean value of fracture strength in Kgf: Group I: Control—27.71; group II: Simple reattachment—9.78; group III: Overcontour—24.41; group IV: Internal dentinal groove—23.83.

Conclusion

The overcontour technique had the highest strength recovery while the simple reattachment had the lowest.

Clinical significance

The overcontour technique provided strength recovery almost similar to intact teeth emphasizing that tooth preparation influenced fracture resistance.

How to cite this article

Srilatha, Joshi S, Chhasatia N, Rani PJ, Mathur E. Reattachment of Fractured Anterior Teeth— Determining Fracture Strength using Different Techniques: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012; 13(1):61-65.
Effect of Different Impression Techniques on the Dimensional Accuracy of Impressions using Various Elastomeric Impression Materials: An in vitro Study
Authors: Singh Kishan , Sahoo Sukant , Prasad KD , Goel Meenu , Singh Anupam
Published: May 2012

Production of exemplary crowns and fixed partial dentures depends upon the usage of impression material and its technique of usage that accurately reproduces prepared teeth and their relationship to the adjacent oral structure.

Aim

To evaluate the linear dimensional accuracy of the elastomeric impressions using various impression techniques using different combinations of viscosities of impression materials.

Materials and methods

Crown preparation was done in a dentulous acrylic resin denture base model with six natural teeth embedded into it was made to represent the dentulous maxillary arch. A total of 55 impressions were obtained and poured in die stone using various impression techniques with different combinations of viscosities of impression materials.

Results

Among the six techniques used, the heavy body light body two-step technique using custom tray showed the least distortion which was closely followed by the putty wash two-step technique with 2 mm spacer using stock tray.

Conclusion

The study revealed that the heavy body light body two-step technique with custom tray provided the best results.

Clinical significance

Dimensional accuracy of impressions is very much required for precisely fitting of prosthesis. This study may be helpfull to select the technique and materials as per clinical requirement of accuracy of impressions.

How to cite this article

Singh K, Sahoo S, Prasad KD, Goel M, Singh A. Effect of Different Impression Techniques on the Dimensional Accuracy of Impressions using Various Elastomeric Impression Materials: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(1):98-106.
Expansive Focal Cemento-Osseous Dysplasia
Authors: Bulut Emel Uzun , Acikgoz Aydan , Ozan Bora , Zengin Ayse Zeynep , Gunhan Omer
Published: May 2012

Aim

To present a case of expansive focal cemento-osseous dysplasia and emphasize the importance of differential diagnosis.

Background

Cemento-osseous dysplasia is categorized into three subtypes on the basis of the clinical and radiographic features: Periapical, focal and florid. The focal type exhibits a single site of involvement in any tooth-bearing or edentulous area of the jaws. These lesions are usually asymptomatic; therefore, they are frequently diagnosed incidentally during routine radiographic examinations. Lesions are usually benign, show limited growth, and do not require further surgical intervention, but periodic follow-up is recommended because occasionally, this type of dysplasia progresses into florid osseous dysplasia and simple bone cysts are formed.

Case report

A 24-year-old female patient was referred to our clinic for swelling in the left edentulous mandibular premolarmolar region and felt discomfort when she wore her prosthetics. She had no pain, tenderness or paresthesia. Clinical examination showed that the swelling in the posterior mandible that was firm, nonfluctuant and covered by normal mucosa. On panoramic radiography and computed tomography, a welldefined lesion of approximately 1.5 cm in diameter of mixed density was observed.

The swelling increased slightly in size over 2 years making it difficult to use prosthetics and, therefore, the lesion was totally excised under local anesthesia, and surgical specimens were submitted for histopathological examination. The histopathological diagnosis was focal cemento-osseous dysplasia.

Conclusion

In the present case, because of the increasing size of the swelling making it difficult to use prosthetics, young age of the patient and localization of the lesion, in the initial examination, cemento-ossifying fibroma was suspected, and the lesion was excised surgically; the histopathological diagnosis confirmed it as focal cemento-osseous dysplasia.

Clinical significance

We present a case of expansive focal cemento-osseous dysplasia. Differential diagnosis is essential because ossifying fibroma is a real neoplastic entity.

How to cite this article

Uzun Bulut E, Acikgoz A, Ozan B, Zengin AZ, Gunhan O. Expansive Focal Cemento-Osseous Dysplasia. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(1):115-118.
Single Visit Replacement of Maxillary Canine using Fiber-reinforced Composite Resin
Authors: Garoushi Sufyan , Lassila Lippo , Vallittu Pekka K
Published: May 2012

Missing a canine is of serious concern in social life of a patient in most of societies. While conventional fixed partial dentures and implant-supported restorations may often be the treatment of choice, fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) resins offer a conservative, fast and cost-effective alternative for single and multiple teeth replacement. This clinical report presents two cases where FRC technology was successfully used to restore canine edentulous area in terms of esthetic-cosmetic values and functionality.

How to cite this article

Garoushi S, Lassila L, Vallittu PK. Single Visit Replacement of Maxillary Canine using Fiber-reinforced Composite Resin. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(1):125-129.