bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sclerosing Orbital Inflammation Caused by Leishmania braziliensis
Authors: Cruz Antonio Augusto V. , Alves-Ferreira Eliza V. C. , Milbratz-Moré Gherusa , Chahud Fernando , Ruy Patricia C. , Duarte Maria Irma Seixas , Cruz Angela Kaysel
Published: November 2016

Orbital biopsy of nonspecific orbital inflammation, commonly referred to as “orbital pseudotumor,” typically shows a combination of polyclonal lymphocytes, plasmocytes, leukocytes, macrophages, and variable degrees of collagen deposition. Herein, we report a patient with a positive history of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis who presented with an orbital mass with a histological profile of idiopathic orbital inflammation. Immunohistochemical and molecular analysis of the orbital specimens demonstrated that the orbital inflammation was associated with the presence of antigens of Leishmania braziliensis and DNA from the parasite.
Incidence of Endemic Burkitt Lymphoma in Three Regions of Mozambique
Authors: O'Callaghan-Gordo Cristina , Casabonne Delphine , Carrilho Carla , Ferro Josefo , Lorenzoni Cesaltina , Zaqueu Clesio , Nhabomba Augusto , Aguilar Ruth , Bassat Quique , de Sanjosé Sílvia , Dobaño Carlota , Kogevinas Manolis
Published: November 2016

Data on the burden and incidence of endemic Burkitt lymphoma (eBL) across Mozambique are scarce. We retrospectively retrieved information on eBL cases from reports of the three main hospitals of Mozambique: Maputo Central Hospital (MCH), Beira Central Hospital (BCH), and Nampula Central Hospital (NCH) between 2004 and 2014. For 2015, we prospectively collected information of new eBL cases attending these hospitals. A total of 512 eBL cases were reported between 2004 and 2015: 153 eBL cases were reported in MCH, 195 in BCH, and 164 in NCH. Mean age of cases was 6.9 years (standard deviation = 2.8); 63% (319/504) of cases were males. For 2015, the estimated incidence rate of eBL was 2.0, 1.7, and 3.9 per 106 person-year at risk in MCH, BCH, and NCH, respectively. Incidence was higher in NCH (northern Mozambique), where intensity of malaria transmission is higher. Data presented show that eBL is a common pediatric malignancy in Mozambique, as observed in neighboring countries.
Seasonality of Viral Encephalitis and Associated Environmental Risk Factors in Son La and Thai Binh Provinces in Vietnam from 2004 to 2013
Authors: Lee Hu Suk , Nguyen-Viet Hung , Lee Mihye , Duc Phuc Pham , Grace Delia
Published: November 2016

In Vietnam, Japanese encephalitis virus accounts for 12–71% of viral encephalitis (VE) cases followed by enteroviruses and dengue virus among identified pathogens. This study is the first attempt to evaluate the seasonality of VE and associated environmental risk factors in two provinces from 2004 to 2013 using a seasonal trend-decomposition procedure based on loess regression and negative binomial regression models. We found seasonality with a peak of VE in August and June in Son La and Thai Binh, respectively. In Son La, the model showed that for every 1°C increase in average monthly temperature, there was a 4.0% increase in monthly VE incidence. There was a gradual decline in incidence rates as the relative humidity rose to its mean value (80%) and a dramatic rise in incidence rate as the relative humidity rose past 80%. Another model found that a 100 mm rise in precipitation in the preceding and same months corresponded to an increase in VE incidence of 23% and 21%, respectively. In Thai Binh, our model showed that a 1°C increase in temperature corresponded with a 9% increase in VE incidence. Another model found that VE incidence increased as monthly precipitation rose to its mean value of 130 mm but declined gradually as precipitation levels rose beyond that. The last model showed that a monthly increase in duration of sunshine of 1 hour corresponded to a 0.6% increase in VE incidence. The findings may assist clinicians by improving the evidence for diagnosis.
Flea-Borne Rickettsioses and Rickettsiae
Authors: Blanton Lucas S. , Walker David H.
Published: November 2016

Rickettsia typhi and Rickettsia felis are flea-borne rickettsiae that are distributed throughout the world. This mini-review outlines the ecology and epidemiology of flea-borne rickettsioses; highlights important clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic considerations; and discusses areas of uncertainty regarding Rickettsia felis and other rickettsiae harbored by fleas.
Longitudinal Pooled Deep Sequencing of the Plasmodium vivax K12 Kelch Gene in Cambodia Reveals a Lack of Selection by Artemisinin
Authors: Brazeau Nicholas F. , Hathaway Nicholas , Parobek Christian M. , Lin Jessica T. , Bailey Jeffrey A. , Lon Chanthap , Saunders David L. , Juliano Jonathan J.
Published: November 2016

The emergence of artemisinin resistance among Plasmodium falciparum in the Greater Mekong subregion threatens malaria control interventions and is associated with multiple unique mutations in K13 (PF3D7_1343700). The aim of this study was to survey Cambodian Plasmodium vivax for mutations in the K13 ortholog (K12, PVX_083080) that might similarly confer artemisinin resistance. Extracted DNA from Cambodian isolates collected between 2009 and 2012 was pooled by province and year and submitted for next-generation sequencing. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified using a pile-up approach that detected minority SNPs. Among the 14 pools, we found six unique SNPs, including three nonsynonymous SNPs, across six codons in K12. However, none of the SNPs were orthologous to artemisinin resistance–conferring mutations in PF3D7_1343700, and nonsynonymous changes did not persist through time within populations. These results suggest a lack of selection in the P. vivax population in Cambodia due to artemisinin drug pressure.
How Much Does Inbreeding Reduce Heterozygosity? Empirical Results from Aedes aegypti
Authors: Powell Jeffrey R. , Evans Benjamin R.
Published: November 2016

Deriving strains of mosquitoes with reduced genetic variation is useful, if not necessary, for many genetic studies. Inbreeding is the standard way of achieving this. Full-sib inbreeding the mosquito Aedes aegypti for seven generations reduced heterozygosity to 72% of the initial heterozygosity in contrast to the expected 13%. This deviation from expectations is likely due to high frequencies of deleterious recessive alleles that, given the number of markers studied (27,674 single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs]), must be quite densely spread in the genome.
Maintaining Osseointegration: Understanding, preventing, and treating Risk Factors for Peri-implant Diseases
Authors: Danesh-Sani Seyed Amir
Published: November 2016

How to cite this article

Danesh-Sani SA. Maintaining Osseointegration: Understanding, preventing, and treating Risk Factors for Peri-implant Diseases. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(9):711-712.
Golden Proportion Analysis of Dental–Skeletal Patterns of Class II and III Patients Pre and Post Orthodontic-orthognathic Treatment
Authors: Chicarelli Mariliani , Bragatto Fernanda P , Kasuya Amanda VB , Takeshita Wilton M , Iwaki-Filho Liogi , Iwaki Lilian CV
Published: November 2016

Introduction

The golden proportion has been used in dentistry in an attempt to improve facial function and, possibly, esthetics by simplifying the diagnosis of facial and dental disharmony. The aim of this study is to analyze pre- and postoperative cephalometric tracings of lateral cephalograms of patients with class II and III deformities submitted to orthognathic surgery, and verify if the 13 dental–skeletal patterns (ratios), as defined by Ricketts, moved closer to or further away from the golden proportion.

Materials and methods

A total of 110 lateral cephalometric radiographs, 55 obtained preoperatively and 55 postoperatively, were analyzed using Dolphin Imaging software.

Results

Radiographs analysis demonstrated that ratios 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 13 remained statistically different from the golden proportion postoperatively. Ratio 12 was the only one to move closer to the golden number, while the opposite happened with ratio 6, which moved further away after the surgery. Ratios 2 and 11 kept statistically similar to the golden proportion both pre and postoperatively.

Conclusion

It may be concluded that orthognathic surgery had little effect on the proportions studied, and that the golden proportion was not present in the majority of the ratios analyzed neither before nor after surgery.

Clinical significance

Determine whether the facial patterns approach the golden ratio after surgical correction. Also determine whether the golden ratio may be a standard to guide the surgical treatment of patients with skeletal patterns of type II and III.

How to cite this article

Bragatto FP, Chicarelli M, Kasuya AVB, Takeshita WM, Iwaki-Filho L, Iwaki LCV. Golden Proportion Analysis of Dental–Skeletal Patterns of Class II and III Patients Pre and Post Orthodontic-orthognathic Treatment. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(9):728-733.
Prevalence of Deleterious Oral Habits and Oral Mucosal Lesions among Fishermen Population of Mahe, South India
Authors: Anzil KSA , Mathews J , Sai AG , Kiran M , Kevin S , Sunith S
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Fishing is an occupation associated with uneven diet, strain, drunkenness, tobacco use, and deleterious habits. The physical state of laborers on a large scale will also be influenced by conditions at their work site. Oral mucosal lesions can occur as a result of infections, local shock or infuriation, systemic diseases, and uncontrolled usage of tobacco, betel quid, and alcohol. The aim of the present study is to assess the prevalence of deleterious oral habits and oral mucosal lesions among fishermen population of Mahe, South India.

Materials and methods

The study population consists of 362 fishermen aged between 15 and 54. The questionnaire consisted of questions on personal data, and information related to the subjects’ oral habits were collected by the interview. The World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Assessment Form was designed for the assessment of oral mucosal lesions.

Results

Among the 362 fishermen, 266 (73.48%) were males and 96 (26.52%) were females. The overall prevalence of smoking, alcohol consumption, and gutka chewing was found to be 24.3, 48.85, and 32.4% respectively. Smokeless tobacco (32.4%) was the most prevalent habit followed by smoking tobacco (24.3%). The prevalence of oral mucosal lesions was 14.9%. There is a statistically significant association between age groups and habits considered.

Conclusion

Findings of the present study suggest that oral health condition of the fisherfolk community was relatively poor, with high habit prevalence and oral mucosal lesions. This epidemiological study has provided baseline data to plan further research in this area.

Clinical significance

Low socioeconomic status, strenuous working hours, inadequate diet and nutrition intake, stress, and use of tobacco and alcohol act as contributing factors for ill health and oral diseases. It is a challenging population to the clinician to identify and treat them.

How to cite this article

Anzil KSA, Mathews J, Sai AG, Kiran M, Kevin S, Sunith S. Prevalence of Deleterious Oral Habits and Oral Mucosal Lesions among Fishermen Population of Mahe, South India. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(9):745-749.
Qualitative Assessment of Wear Resistance and Surface Hardness of Different Commercially Available Dental Porcelain: An in vitro Study
Authors: Nagpal Abhishek , Issar Gaurav
Published: November 2016

Introduction

In an attempt to minimize wear damage to the enamel of antagonist teeth, new low and medium fusing ceramic materials have been developed. Manufacturers usually claim that these ceramics are wear-friendly because of their lower hardness, lower concentrations of crystal phase, and smaller crystal sizes. This study aimed to quantitatively analyze the wear strength of various commercially available dental porcelain with tooth enamel as well as the surface hardness of these dental porcelain.

Materials and methods

The basic model was designed as a pin on plate arrangement. The tooth specimens were mounted on the stylus which was centered on the ceramic specimen in a wear testing machine. The dental ceramic specimen was centered in the metal die. A load of 40 N was applied at a rate of 80 cycles/minute for 15 minutes. In the current study, mean wear depth (Ra) value, volumetric loss, and surface hardness were obtained by standard quantification method and were statistically evaluated.

Results

Ceramco-3 was reported to be most abrasive for enamel; however, Duceram love significantly more abraded itself than the other two, Ceramco-3 and Vita Alpha, and generated the lowest loss of enamel. Also, same abrasive type of wear was revealed for all three variants of tested ceramics.

Conclusion

Ceramco-3 was the most abrasive for enamel, while surface roughness (mean wear depth) of Duceram love was maximum and for Ceramco-3 it was minimum. The value of surface roughness for Vita Alpha was in between Duceram love and Ceramco-3. Nonetheless, the mean surface hardness of Duceram love was found to be least and maximum for Vita Alpha.

Clinical significance

In situations of dental wear and wasting tooth disease (Attrition/Abrasion), Duceram can be applied in lieu of Ceramco-3 so as to prevent worsening of existing dentition. However, in younger patients Vita Alpha would offer maximum durability due to its greater surface hardness.

How to cite this article

Singh A, Nagpal A, Pawah S, Pathak C, Issar G, Sharma P. Qualitative Assessment of Wear Resistance and Surface Hardness of Different Commercially Available Dental Porcelain: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016; 17(9):755-761.
Hidden Overdenture Bar in Fixed Implant-retained Hybrid Prosthesis: Report of a Novel Technique
Authors: Shetty Prajna P , Gangaiah Makam
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Every patient needs a comprehensive treatment planning. Dentists must consider the advantages and disadvantages of the available implant prosthetic options and match them to patient's expectations. Hybrid denture prosthesis is one, i.e., fabricated and retained by screw threaded into implant abutments, most of the time on four implants. Sometimes due to failure of an implant, the prosthesis needs to be replaced with a newer casting to accommodate the existing implants.

Clinical consideration

This article presents a novel technique, wherein the existing framework of the fixed prosthesis can be used to convert the fixed prosthesis to removable prosthesis on the existing implants, without recasting.

Clinical significance

The implant is economical and easily convertible from a fixed-fixed to a fixed-removable prosthesis. Hence, there is reduced morbidity, reduced cost, and an increased psychological comfort for the patient.

How to cite this article

Shetty PP, Gangaiah M, Chowdhary R. Hidden Overdenture Bar in Fixed Implant-retained Hybrid Prosthesis: Report of a Novel Technique. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(9):780-782.
Antibacterial Efficacy of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Extract against Enterococcus faecalis: An in vitro Study
Authors: Mustafa Mohammed
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Debridement and disinfection of the root canal is a crucial step in the success of endodontic treatment. Several antimicrobial agents alone or in combination are used to achieve this. The objective of this in vitro study was to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of neem (Azadirachta indica) extract against Enterococcus faecalis.

Materials and methods

Neem leaf extract, 2% chlorhexidine, 3% sodium hypochlorite were used to assess the antimicrobial efficiency. Agar well diffusion test was used to study the antimicrobial efficacy with saline as control. The zone of inhibition was recorded, tabulated, and analyzed statistically with the help of IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences statistics version 20 using analysis of variance test.

Results

All the three medicaments showed well-defined and comparable zones of inhibition around their respective wells. All values were significantly higher than the control group. Analysis of variance showed significant difference between zone diameters of chlorhexidine, neem leaf extract, and 3% sodium hypochlorite against E. faecalis (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

From the present study, it can be concluded that neem leaf extract shows comparable zones of inhibition with that of chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite.

Clinical significance

Neem leaf extract has significant antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis and thus opens the perspectives for the use of neem extract as an intracanal medication.

How to cite this article

Mustafa M. Antibacterial Efficacy of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Extract against Enterococcus faecalis: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(10):791-794.
450 nm Blue Laser and Oral Surgery: Preliminary ex vivo Study
Authors: Fornaini Carlo , Merigo Elisabetta , Rocca Jean-Paul , Lagori Giuseppe , Raybaud Hélène , Selleri Stefano , Cucinotta Annamaria
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Dental diode lasers were started to be used at the end of the 1990s and were shown to possess several important characteristics, such as small size and low cost, as well as the advantage of optic fibers delivering system. Although only two wavelengths (810 and 980 nm) had been the most used dental diode lasers, a wavelength emitting in the blue portion of the spectrum has recently been proposed.

Aim

The aim of this ex vivo study was to compare the effectiveness of five different fiber-delivered laser wavelengths (450, 532, 808, 1064, and 1340 nm) in the oral soft tissue ablation.

Materials and methods

Specimens were surgically collected from the dorsal surface of four bovine tongues and, while deep thermal increase was measured by two thermocouples at 0.5 and 2 mm depth, surface temperature was recorded by an infrared thermometer. Subsequently, specimens were fixed in 10% buffered formalin solution, cut into slices, and embedded in paraffin blocks, and a pathologist made a morphological analysis by optic microscope assigning a score based on the quality of the cut and tissue damage.

Results

The analysis showed the best quality of the cut and the lowest temperature increase on the specimens obtained with the shortest laser wavelength (450 nm).

Conclusion

Even considering this as preliminary study, the use of 450 nm blue diode laser in oral surgery may be suggested to the clinician in their daily practice.

Clinical significance

This study opens a new perspective in oral surgery. Blue diode laser has demonstrated a good quality of the cut with a low energy causing a minimal thermal damage to the tissue, promising a better comfort to patients.

How to cite this article

Fornaini C, Merigo E, Rocca J-P, Lagori G, Raybaud H, Selleri S, Cucinotta A. 450 nm Blue Laser and Oral Surgery: Preliminary ex vivo Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(10):795-800.
Association between Body Mass Index and Dental Caries among Anganwadi Children of Belgaum City, India
Authors: Anzil KSA , Aluckal Eby , Baby Mathews , George Eldhose K , Lakshmanan Sanju , Chikkanna Shilpa
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Body mass index (BMI) is an index that measures height for weight, which is commonly used to categorize underweight, overweight, and obese individuals. Deviation from normal weight results from an imbalance between caloric consumption and energy expenditure. Childhood obesity and childhood dental caries are coincidental in many populations, probably due to common confounding risk factors, such as intake frequency, cariogenic diet, and poor oral hygiene. So the aim of the present study was to assess the BMI status and to corelate between dental caries and BMI among the Anganwadi children of Belgaum city, Karnataka, India.

Materials and methods

Four hundred and thirty three children from 20 Anganwadi's belonging to the age group of 2 to 6 years of both sexes were measured for BMI and dental caries status. The caries index was measured as the number of decayed (d) and filled (f) teeth (t) (dft). The BMI in units of kg/m2 was determined and children were categorized according to ageand gender-specific criteria as underweight (<5th percentile), normal (5th–85th percentile), at risk for overweight (85th– 95th percentile), and overweight (>95th percentile). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using Student's t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Karl Pearson's correlation coefficient test with the help of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 18.0.

Results

The proportion of subjects in Centre for Disease Control (CDC) weight categories was: 5% underweight, 79% normal, 9% under the risk for overweight, and 6% overweight.

Conclusion

A significant association was found between children with normal BMI and those who were underweight, overweight, and under the risk for overweight. Children with overweight/obese or underweight/malnourished children had higher decayed and filled surfaces compared to children with normal weight.

Clinical significance

Nutritional status has a profound effect on dental caries. Both underweight/malnutrition and overweight/ obesity have significant adverse implications for health. Childhood obesity and childhood dental caries are coincidental in many populations.

How to cite this article

Aluckal E, Anzil KS A, Baby M, George EK, Lakshmanan S, Chikkanna S. Association between Body Mass Index and Dental Caries among Anganwadi Children of Belgaum City, India. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(10):844-848.
Uninfiltrated Collagen in Hybrid Layers produced after Reduced Acid-etching Time on Primary and Permanent Dentin
Authors: Hebling Josimeri , Scheffel Débora LS , Huck Cláudia , Soares Diana G , Basso Fernanda G , de Souza Costa Carlos A , Brackett Martha G , Pashley David H
Published: November 2016

Aim

This study evaluated the influence of acid-etching time on collagen exposure in adhesive interfaces established on primary and permanent dentin.

Materials and methods

Flat dentin surfaces were produced on sound primary molars and premolars (n = 8). The surfaces were divided into mesial and distal halves, and each half was etched with phosphoric acid for 5 or 15 seconds. The teeth were randomly allocated into two groups according to the adhesive system applied: Prime & Bond NT or Prime & Bond 2.1. After the adhesive application, the specimens were processed for Goldner's trichrome staining. The thickness of the uninfiltrated collagen zone (UCZ) in the hybrid layer was measured under optical microscopy. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Tukey tests (α = 0.05).

Results

The thickness of UCZ was adhesive dependent. Within the same substrate, the specimens treated with Prime & Bond 2.1 presented thicker UCZ when etched for 15 seconds. Collagen exposure was significantly higher for the primary teeth etched for 5 seconds and treated with Prime & Bond 2.1.

Conclusion

The thickness of UCZ in hybrid layers is directly affected by acid-etching time and by the adhesive system applied. Primary dentin seems to be more susceptible to collagen exposure than is permanent dentin.

Clinical significance

Both acid-etching time and adhesive system can influence the amount of exposed collagen interfering on resin–dentin bond quality, especially on primary dentin.

How to cite this article

Scheffel DLS, Huck C, Soares DG, Basso FG, de Souza Costa CA, Brackett MG, Pashley DH, Hebling J. Uninfiltrated Collagen in Hybrid Layers produced after Reduced Acid-etching Time on Primary and Permanent Dentin. J Contemp Dent Pract 2016;17(10):861-866.
A multi-population survey on swine feeding behavior with electronic
feeding devices
Authors: Xin Wenshui , Li Xinjian , Zhang Feng , Yan Guorong , Ding Nengshui , Huang Lusheng , Zhang Zhiyan
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In this study, we used electronic feeding station observations of pigs to investigate their growth performance and feeding behavior. These pigs were raised in Xinda Livestock Company Ltd. in Henan, China, and followed the Chinese directive for the protection of farm animals. Electronic feeding stations are often used in pig breeding and for identifying loci associated with feed consumption. Moreover, they can also provide much valuable information on pig behavior that could be directly used to improve production efficiency. This study involves three different pig population feeding-intake data from 383 Yorkshire, 243 Landrace and 197 Duroc breeds to investigate their growth performance and feeding behavior. Similar patterns of growth performance (slow–fast–slow) were observed in the three breeds, while the Duroc have a slightly faster average growth rate throughout the whole test period. Study of the number of visits to the feeding station over 24 h detected two peaks of feeding intake activity at 08:00–09:00 and 14:00–15:00. During these two peak feeding times, lower feed intake and less occupation time were observed, implicating fiercer competition at these time periods. The effective intake time for Duroc, Landrace and Yorkshire populations was 19, 16 and 19 min, respectively, suggesting that the ultimate feed intake time for each individual can be set up to 20 min for each visit. Studies on the ADFI (average daily feed intake) showed a significant difference (P value  =  0.000009) between seasons and consistent patterns for these three breeds. The present study provides a detailed survey on pig feed intake behaviors across different populations and feeding seasons.
Observing atmospheric formaldehyde (HCHO) from space: validation and
intercomparison of six retrievals from four satellites (OMI, GOME2A, GOME2B,
OMPS) with SEAC4RS aircraft observations over the southeast US
Authors: Zhu Lei , Jacob Daniel J. , Kim Patrick S. , Fisher Jenny A. , Yu Karen , Travis Katherine R. , Mickley Loretta J. , Yantosca Robert M. , Sulprizio Melissa P. , De Smedt Isabelle , González Abad Gonzalo , Chance Kelly , Li Can , Ferrare Richard , Fried Alan , Hair Johnathan W. , Hanisco Thomas F. , Richter Dirk , Jo Scarino Amy , Walega James , Weibring Petter , Wolfe Glenn M.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Formaldehyde (HCHO) column data from satellites are widely used as a proxy for emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), but validation of the data has been extremely limited. Here we use highly accurate HCHO aircraft observations from the NASA SEAC4RS (Studies of Emissions, Atmospheric Composition, Clouds and Climate Coupling by Regional Surveys) campaign over the southeast US in August–September 2013 to validate and intercompare six retrievals of HCHO columns from four different satellite instruments (OMI, GOME2A, GOME2B and OMPS; for clarification of these and other abbreviations used in the paper, please refer to Appendix A) and three different research groups. The GEOS-Chem chemical transport model is used as a common intercomparison platform. All retrievals feature a HCHO maximum over Arkansas and Louisiana, consistent with the aircraft observations and reflecting high emissions of biogenic isoprene. The retrievals are also interconsistent in their spatial variability over the southeast US (r  =  0.4–0.8 on a 0.5°  ×  0.5°  grid) and in their day-to-day variability (r  =  0.5–0.8). However, all retrievals are biased low in the mean by 20–51 %, which would lead to corresponding bias in estimates of isoprene emissions from the satellite data. The smallest bias is for OMI-BIRA, which has high corrected slant columns relative to the other retrievals and low scattering weights in its air mass factor (AMF) calculation. OMI-BIRA has systematic error in its assumed vertical HCHO shape profiles for the AMF calculation, and correcting this would eliminate its bias relative to the SEAC4RS data. Our results support the use of satellite HCHO data as a quantitative proxy for isoprene emission after correction of the low mean bias. There is no evident pattern in the bias, suggesting that a uniform correction factor may be applied to the data until better understanding is achieved.
Hygroscopic Properties of Aminium Sulphate Aerosols
Authors: Rovelli Grazia , Miles Rachael E. H. , Reid Jonathan P. , Clegg Simon L.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Alkylaminium sulphates originate from the neutralisation reaction between short-chained amines and sulphuric acid and have been detected in atmospheric aerosol particles. Their physicochemical behaviour is less well characterised than their inorganic equivalent, ammonium sulphate, even though they play a role in atmospheric processes such as the nucleation and growth of new particles and cloud droplet formation. In this work, a comparative evaporation kinetics experimental technique using a cylindrical electrodynamic balance is applied to determine the hygroscopic properties of six short-chained alkylaminium sulphates, specifically mono-, di- and tri-methylaminium sulphate and mono-, di- and tri-ethyl aminium sulphate. This approach allows the retrieval of a water activity dependent growth curve in less than 10 s, avoiding the uncertainties that can arise from the volatilisation of semi-volatile components. Measurements are made on particles > 5 micrometres in radius, avoiding the need to correct equilibrium measurements for droplet surface curvature with assumed values of the droplet surface tension. Variations in equilibrium solution droplet composition with varying water activity are reported over the range 0.5 to > 0.98, along with accurate parameterisations of solution density and refractive index. The uncertainties in water activities associated with the hygroscopicity measurements are typically  0.9 and ∼ ±1 % below 0.9, with maximum uncertainties in diameter growth factors of ±0.7 %. Comparison with previously reported measurements show deviation across the whole water activity range.
Mineralogical response of the Mediterranean crustose coralline alga
Lithophyllum cabiochae to near-future ocean acidification and warming
Authors: Nash Merinda C. , Martin Sophie , Gattuso Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Red calcareous coralline algae are thought to be among the organisms most vulnerable to ocean acidification due to the high solubility of their magnesium calcite skeleton. Although skeletal mineralogy is proposed to change as CO2 and temperature continue to rise, there is currently very little information available on the response of coralline algal carbonate mineralogy to near-future changes in pCO2 and temperature. Here we present results from a 1-year controlled laboratory experiment to test mineralogical responses to pCO2 and temperature in the Mediterranean crustose coralline alga (CCA) Lithophyllum cabiochae. Our results show that Mg incorporation is mainly constrained by temperature (+1 mol % MgCO3 for an increase of 3 °C), and there was no response to pCO2. This suggests that L. cabiochae thalli have the ability to buffer their calcifying medium against ocean acidification, thereby enabling them to continue to deposit magnesium calcite with a significant mol % MgCO3 under elevated pCO2. Analyses of CCA dissolution chips showed a decrease in Mg content after 1 year for all treatments, but this was affected neither by pCO2 nor by temperature. Our findings suggest that biological processes exert a strong control on calcification on magnesium calcite and that CCA may be more resilient under rising CO2 than previously thought. However, previously demonstrated increased skeletal dissolution with ocean acidification will still have major consequences for the stability and maintenance of Mediterranean coralligenous habitats.
Electrical Resistivity Dynamics beneath a Fractured Sedimentary Bedrock Riverbed in Response to Temperature and Groundwater/Surface Water Exchange
Authors: Steelman Colby , Kennedy Celia S. , Capes Donovan , Parker Beth L.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Bedrock rivers occur where surface water flows along an exposed rock surface. Fractured sedimentary bedrock can exhibit variable groundwater residence times, anisotropic flow paths, heterogeneity, along with diffusive exchange between fractures and rock matrix. These properties of the rock will affect thermal transients in the riverbed and groundwater–surface water exchange. In this study, surface electrical methods were used as a non-invasive technique to assess the scale and temporal variability of riverbed temperature and groundwater–surface water exchange beneath a sedimentary bedrock riverbed. Conditions were monitored on a semi-daily to semi-weekly interval over a full annual period that included a seasonal freeze-thaw cycle. Surface electromagnetic induction and electrical resistivity imaging methods captured conditions beneath the riverbed along a pool-riffle sequence within the Eramosa River, Guelph, Ontario, Canada. Geophysical datasets were accompanied by continuous measurements of aqueous specific conductance, temperature and river stage. Vertical temperature profiling conducted in an inclined borehole underlying the river revealed active groundwater flow zones through fracture networks within the upper 10 m of rock. Resistivity measurements during cooler high-flow and warmer low-flow conditions identified a spatiotemporal riverbed response that was largely dependent upon riverbed morphology and groundwater temperature. Time-lapse resistivity profiles collected across the pool and riffle identified seasonal transients within the upper 2 m and 3 m of rock, respectively, with spatial variations controlled by riverbed morphology (pool verses riffle) and dominant surficial rock properties (competent verses weathered rock rubble surface). While the pool and riffle both exhibited a dynamic resistivity through seasonal cooling and warming cycles, conditions beneath the pool were more dynamic, largely due to the formation of river ice. Although seasonal resistivity trends beneath the riverbed suggest groundwater discharge may be influencing the spatiotemporal extent of a groundwater-surface water mixing zone, intraseasonal resistivity transience suggest potential groundwater–surface water exchange across the upper few meters of rock.
The active magnetic tracking with scalable coverage: indoor navigation for smartphones
Authors: Zhelamskij Michail
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In this paper we explore how to use the magnetic tracking technique for indoor navigation. The six degrees of freedom (6 DoF) magnetic tracking technology is selected because it is less influenced by the environment and has the highest accuracy among other techniques. A new method is proposed, called the alternating direct current (ADC) method, which permits one to get a double update rate, reduce the influence of Earth's magnetic field by a factor of 2 and reduce the power consumption by a factor of 3. The theoretical basis of the new magnetic tracking method is given, including a mathematical modeling of the local field, a mathematical model of the measurement of the positioning field by a 3-D transducer based on the Hall effect sensors, and the mathematical model for the estimation of the measurement errors. A new, net-like source of the positioning local magnetic field is proposed for indoor navigation with a scalable coverage area. A mathematical model of the distributed positioning field is given. The results of simulations are shown.
Assessing the Risk of Road Traffic Fatalities Across Sub-Populations of a Given Geographical Zone, Using a Modified Smeed’s Model
Authors: Hesse Christian A. , Oduro Francis T. , Ofosu John B. , Kpeglo Emmanuel D.
Published: November 2016

Smeed (1949) provided a regression model for estimating road traffic fatalities (RTFs). In this paper, a modified form of Smeed’s (1949) model is proposed for which it is shown that the multiplicative error term is less than that of Smeed’s original model for most situations. Based on this Modified Smeed’s model, Bayesian and multilevel methods are developed to assess the risk of road traffic fatalities across sub populations of a given geographical zone. These methods consider the parameters of the Smeed’s model to be random variables and therefore make it possible to compute variances across space provided there is significant intercept variation of the regression equation across such regions. Using data from Ghana, the robustness of the Bayesian estimates was indicated at low sample sizes with respect to the Normal, Laplace and Cauchy prior distributions. Thus the Bayesian and Multilevel methods performed at least as well as the traditional method of estimating parameters and beyond this were able to assess risk differences through variability of these parameters in space.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Statistics and Probability, Vol. 5, No. 6
Authors: Smith Wendy
Published: November 2016

International Journal of Statistics and Probability wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal is greatly appreciated.Many authors, regardless of whether International Journal of Statistics and Probability publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers.Reviewers for Volume 5, Number 6Afsin SahinSajid AliFarida KachapovaCarla J. ThompsonAnna Grana'Bibi AbdelouahabHui ZhangPhilip WestgateDouglas LorenzSamah M. Abo-El-HadidQingyang ZhangChin-Shang Li(Editor-in-Chief)Gane Samb LoDr. Sohair F. HigaziWei ZhangVyacheslav AbramovAbdullah A. SMADIJacek BiałekIvair R. SilvaMilind PhadnisMarcelo BourguignonZaixing LiWojciech GamrotVilda PurutcuogluAli Reza FotouhiNahid Sanjari Farsipour
Konverzační analýza a interakce ve třídě: východiska a metodologické aspekty
Authors: Tůma František
Published: November 2016

Cílem předkládané metodologické studie je pojednat o etnometodologické konverzační analýze jako o metodě uplatnitelné ve výzkumu interakce ve třídě. Studie nastiňuje stav teoretické a metodologické reflexe v této oblasti pedagogického výzkumu (část 1), vymezuje pozici konverzační analýzy a pojednává o intersubjektivitě v interakci, k jejímuž hlubšímu pochopení může konverzační analýza přispět (část 2). Studie dále pojednává o východiscích konverzační analýzy, ze kterých jsou odvozeny principy a postupy při transkribování a analýze dat (část 3). Tyto principy a postupy jsou na vybraných datových ukázkách názorně ilustrovány, přičemž je pozornost věnována i párovým sekvencím, střídání mluvčích a opravám, které představují oblasti zájmu konverzační analýzy (část 4). V závěru textu je pojednáno o kritice konverzační analýzy a některých vývojových tendencích v konverzačněanalytickém výzkumu. Je vyvozeno, že konverzační analýza umožňuje postihnout lokálně utvářené vzájemné porozumění mezi účastníky v interakci a zároveň zohlednit institucionální (didaktické) aspekty interakce ve třídě.
Když čísla a slova spolupracují: smíšený design v ukázkách z výzkumu moci ve školní třídě
Authors: Vlčková Kateřina , Lojdová Kateřina
Published: November 2016

Cílem naší studie je představit metodologii smíšeného designu výzkumu na konkrétním příkladu. Zvolily jsme si tříletý výzkum moci ve školních třídách studentů učitelství, financovaný Grantovou agenturou ČR. Propojení kvantitativní a kvalitativní metodologie ilustrujeme na úrovni teorie, formy smíšeného designu, výzkumné otázky, vzorku, sběru dat, analýzy dat a jejich interpretace. Ukazujeme také konkrétní příklady možných podob integrace výsledků kvalitativní a kvantitativní analýzy dat, které přispívají k odhalení další dimenze jevu, míry odlišnosti perspektiv aktérů či nuancí ve zjištěních. V úvodní části studie se zabýváme rozdíly kvantitativního a kvalitativního výzkumu a jejich dekonstrukcí. Ukazujeme historický vývoj smíšeného výzkumu, co je a co není smíšeným výzkumem a jaké jsou jeho základní formy. Diskutujeme o integrovaném designu výzkumu, paralelizaci a integraci jako základním principu smíšeného výzkumu a na závěr studie otvíráme také některé kritické otázky smíšené metodologie.
The Bright Line of Ethical Agency
Authors: Wandmacher Stevens F. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2016

In his article The Nature, Importance, and Difficulty of Machine Ethics, James H. Moor distinguishes two lines of argument for those who wish to draw a “bright line” between full ethical agents, such as human beings, and “weaker” ethical agents, such as machines whose actions have significant moral ramifications. The first line of argument is that only full ethical agents are agents at all. The second is that no machine could have the presumed features necessary for ethical agency. This paper shows why Moor is mistaken in his refutation of the first line of argument; it also makes a positive case that “weaker” ethical agents are not agents at all. This positive case, however, allows Moor’s rejection of the second line of argument to stand: allowing that there could be moral machines, but that these machines would have to be full moral agents and not merely something that models moral behavior or can be used in morally charged ways.
Ischemic postconditioning and pinacidil suppress calcium overload in anoxia-reoxygenation cardiomyocytes via down-regulation of the calcium-sensing receptor
Authors: Zhang Lin , Cao Song , Deng Shengli , Yao Gang , Yu Tian
Published: November 2016

Ischemic postconditioning (IPC) and ATP sensitive potassium channel (KATP) agonists (e.g. pinacidil and diazoxide) postconditioning are effective methods to defeat myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, but their specific mechanisms of reducing I/R injury are not fully understood. We observed an intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i) overload in Anoxia/reoxygenation (A/R) cardiomyocytes, which can be reversed by KATP agonists diazoxide or pinacidil. The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) regulates intracellular calcium homeostasis. CaSR was reported to be involved in the I/R-induced apoptosis in rat cardiomyocytes. We therefore hypothesize that IPC and pinacidil postconditioning (PPC) reduce calcium overload in I/R cardiomyocytes by the down-regulation of CaSR. A/R model was established with adult rat caridomyocyte. mRNA and protein expression of CaSR were detected, IPC, PPC and KATP’s effects on [Ca2+]i concentration was assayed too. IPC and PPC ameliorated A/R insult induced [Ca2+]i overload in cardiomyocytes. In addition, they down-regulated the mRNA and protein level of CaSR as we expected. CaSR agonist spermine and KATP blocker glibenclamide offset IPC’s effects on CaSR expression and [Ca2+]i modulation. Our data indicate that CaSR down-regulation contributes to the mitigation of calcium overload in A/R cardiomyocytes, which may partially represents IPC and KATP’s myocardial protective mechanism under I/R circumstances.
Performance, usability and comparison of two versions of a new macular vision test: the handheld Radial Shape Discrimination test
Authors: Ku Jae Y. , Milling Ashli F. , Pitrelli Vazquez Noelia , Knox Paul C.
Published: November 2016

Background

Central vision, critical for everyday tasks such as reading and driving, is impacted by age-related changes in the eye and by diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. The detection of changes in macular function is therefore important. The Radial Shape Discrimination (RSD) test measures the threshold at which distortions in a radial frequency pattern can be detected and there is evidence that it is more sensitive to macular pathology than visual acuity (VA). It also provides a more quantitative measure of macular function than the commonly available Amsler grid. Recently, handheld versions of the test (hRSD) in which stimuli are presented on mobile devices (e.g., Apple iPod Touch, iPhone) have been developed. We investigated the characteristics of the hRSD test in healthy participants.

Methods

Data were collected using both three-alternative forced choice (3AFC) and 4AFC versions of the hRSD test, presented on an Apple iPod Touch. For the 3AFC version, data from a single test session were available for 186 (72 male; mean ± SD age 42 ± 17y; range 16–90y) healthy participants. Test-retest data were available for subgroups of participants (intra-session:N = 74; tests approximately 2 months apart:N = 30; tests 39 months apart:N = 15). The 3AFC and 4AFC versions were directly compared in 106 participants who also completed a usability questionnaire. Distance and near VA and Pelli Robson Contrast Sensitivity (CS) data were collected and undilated fundoscopy performed on the majority of participants.

Results

Mean (±SD) 3AFC hRSD threshold was −0.77 ± 0.14 logMAR, and was statistically significantly correlated with age (Pearsonr = 0.35;p < 0.001). The linear regression of hRSD threshold on age had a slope of +0.0026 compared to +0.0051 for near VA (which also correlated with age:r = 0.51; p < 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in hRSD thresholds for any of the test-retest subgroups. We also observed no statistically significant difference between 3AFC (−0.82 ± 0.11 logMAR) and 4AFC (−0.80 ± 0.12 logMAR) hRSD thresholds (t = 1.85, p = 0.067) and participants reported excellent test usability with no strong preference expressed between the 3AFC and 4AFC versions of the test.

Discussion

The 3AFC hRSD thresholds we report are consistent with a number of previous studies, as is its greater stability in ageing compared to VA. We have also shown that in the absence of pathology, thresholds are stable over short and long timescales. The 4AFC thresholds we have reported provide a baseline for future investigations, and we have confirmed that 3AFC and 4AFC thresholds are similar, providing a basis of comparisons between studies using the different versions. As the hRSD test is easy to use and relatively inexpensive, clinical studies are now required to establish its ability to detect and monitor macular pathologies.
Race/ethnic comparisons of waist‐to‐height ratio for cardiometabolic screening: The study of women's health across the nation
Authors: Kazlauskaite Rasa , Avery‐Mamer Elizabeth F. , Li Hong , Chataut Chandra P. , Janssen Imke , Powell Lynda H. , Kravitz Howard M.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To compare the performance of waist‐to‐height ratio as a screening tool for cardiometabolic conditions – hypertension, prediabetes/diabetes, dyslipidemia, and subclinical inflammation – in 5 race/ethnic groups of mid‐life women.

Methods

Waist‐to‐height ratio and 4 cardiometabolic conditions were assessed in 3033 premenopausal midlife women (249 Hispanic, 226 Chinese, 262 Japanese, 1435 European‐American, and 861 African American). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) were compared across the five race/ethnic groups using waist‐to‐height ratio to determine the likelihood of the four cardiometabolic conditions.

Results

The performance of waist‐to‐height ratio to detect one or more cardiometabolic conditions was comparable among all race/ethnic groups (AUROC > 0.60, p = 0.252), and was good/fair (AUROC > 0.60) when hypertension, prediabetes/diabetes, dyslipidemia, or subclinical inflammation were analyzed separately. The performance of waist‐to‐height ratio of 0.50 was skewed towards higher specificity among groups with low prevalence of cardiometabolic conditions and lower median waist‐to‐height ratio, and towards higher sensitivity among groups with high prevalence of cardiometabolic conditions and higher median waist‐to‐height ratio.

Conclusions

Waist‐to‐height ratio can be used for community‐based screening of mid‐life women who may need secondary prevention for cardiometabolic conditions. A simple public health message: “Keep your waist to less than half of your height” applies to midlife women.