bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AN EXTENSION OF PENROSE’S INEQUALITY ON GENERALIZED INVERSES TO THE SCHATTEN p-CLASSES
Authors: Mecheri Salah
Published: January 2014

Let B(H) be the algebra of all bounded linear operators on a complex separable infinite dimensional Hilbert space H.

In this paper we minimize the Schatten Cp-norm of suitable affine mappings from B(H) to Cp, using convex and differential analysis (Gâteaux derivative) as well as input from operator theory. The mappings considered generalize Penrose’s inequality which asserts that if A+ and B+ denote the Moore-Penrose inverses of the matrices A and B, respectively, then

||AXB − C||2 ≥ ||AA+CB+B − C||2,

with A+CB+ being the unique minimizer of minimal ||:||2 norm. The main results obtained characterize the best Cp-approximant of the operator AXB.
Socio-Clinical Profile Of HIV Patients Visiting To An Art Centre
Authors: Singh Ajaypal , Singh S , Alawa HL
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Scenario of the AIDS epidemic, clinical course and pattern of opportunistic infections in HIV patients is changing world-wide. The study aims to fulfill the paucity of socio-clinical profi le among the patient of HIV with geographical population of this region. Methodology: This is a hospital based cross sectional clinical study with a sample size of 110 respondents presenting to ART center at Jayarogya Hospital (JAH) Gwalior from May 2010 to Oct 2011. Results: Mean age of study population was 35.44±9. High Frequency of weight loss > 10% (P<0.001), fever (P=0.0027), breathlessness (P=0.03), itching (P<0.001), lymphadenopathy (P<0.001), oral thrush (P=0.006), extra pulmonary tuberculosis (P=0.04), candidiasis (P=0.006) at low CD4 count (<200) and difference in mean CD4 count (P=0.0039) among male (202.21) and female (291.41) was found to be statistically signifi cant. CD4 counts of the patients were signifi cantly inversely correlated with the number of opportunistic infections and the number of symptoms (R=-0.369; P<0.001, R=-0.223; P=0.019 respectively). Conclusion: The study depicts male predominance, young sexually active group vulnerability, with a quite difference in clinical presentation and occurrence of opportunistic infections from other part of the world necessitating formulation of different set of guidelines for subjects of Indian subcontinent to improve life-span of such patients. SAARC Journal of Tuberculosis, Lung Diseases & HIV/AIDS; 2013; X(2); 7-14 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/saarctb.v10i2.9707
Grounding-line dynamics and margin lakes
Authors: Fried M.J. , Hulbe C.L. , Fahnestock M.A.
Published: January 2014

At both corners of the now stagnant Kamb Ice Stream (KIS, West Antarctica) outlet, shear margins of different ages confine wedge-shaped areas with relatively flat, smooth surfaces that stagnated before the main trunk of the ice stream. We identify these features as lakes or past lakes, and consider scenarios for their development in a regional history of ongoing adjustment to grounding-line position. We focus here on the centuries leading up to the recent stagnation of KIS, a time when its grounding line appears to have advanced >100km from an earlier upstream location. Starting from stagnation of Crary Ice Rise and changes in the grounding zone of Whillans Ice Stream, we trace feedbacks associated with local thickening, ice grounding and thickness transients that both advance the grounding line and leave remnant lakes in their wake. These lakes in turn promote the development of secondary margins that may appear as ‘margin jumps’ in the ice record.
Numerical simulations of major ice streams in Western Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica, under wet and dry basal conditions
Authors: Kleiner Thomas , Humbert Angelika
Published: January 2014

We study the presence and effect of subglacial water on the motion of inland ice in western Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica. A full-Stokes model including three routing schemes for a thin film of subglacial water and a modification of a Weertman-type sliding relation, to account for higher sliding velocities under wet basal conditions, were used to perform 200 ka spin-up simulations on a 2.5 km grid. Subsequent 30 ka simulations with wet and dry basal conditions were analysed for the effects of sliding on the thermal regime and velocities. The occurrence of the major ice streams in this area is mainly controlled by the ice and bedrock geometry. Smaller glaciers only appear as pronounced individual glaciers when subglacial water is taken into account. The thermal regime is affected by creep instabilities produced by an ice rheology including a microscopic water content, leading to cyclic behaviour on millennial timescales of the ice flow and occurrence of temperate ice at the base.
Microstructural Characteristics and Tribological Behavior of HVOF-Sprayed Novel Fe-Based Alloy Coatings
Authors: Milanti Andrea , Koivuluoto Heli , Vuoristo Petri , Bolelli Giovanni , Bozza Francesco , Lusvarghi Luca
Published: January 2014

Thermally-sprayed Fe-based coatings have shown their potential for use in wear applications due to their good tribological properties. In addition, these kinds of coatings have other advantages, e.g., cost efficiency and positive environmental aspects. In this study, the microstructural details and tribological performances of Fe-based coatings (Fe-Cr-Ni-B-C and Fe-Cr-Ni-B-Mo-C) manufactured by High Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF) thermal spray process are evaluated. Traditional Ni-based (Ni-Cr-Fe-Si-B-C) and hard-metal (WC-CoCr) coatings were chosen as references. Microstructural investigation (field-emission scanning electron microscope FESEM and X-Ray diffractometry XRD) reveals a high density and low oxide content for HVOF Fe-based coatings. Particle melting and rapid solidification resulted in a metastable austenitic phase with precipitates of mixed carbides and borides of chromium and iron which lead to remarkably high nanohardness. Tribological performances were evaluated by means of the ball on-disk dry sliding wear test, the rubber-wheel dry particle abrasion test, and the cavitation erosion wear test. A higher wear resistance validates Fe-based coatings as a future alternative to the more expensive and less environmentally friendly Ni-based alloys.
An FPGA-Based Rapid Wheezing Detection System
Authors: Lin Bor-Shing , Yen Tian-Shiue
Published: January 2014

Wheezing is often treated as a crucial indicator in the diagnosis of obstructive pulmonary diseases. A rapid wheezing detection system may help physicians to monitor patients over the long-term. In this study, a portable wheezing detection system based on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is proposed. This system accelerates wheezing detection, and can be used as either a single-process system, or as an integrated part of another biomedical signal detection system. The system segments sound signals into 2-second units. A short-time Fourier transform was used to determine the relationship between the time and frequency components of wheezing sound data. A spectrogram was processed using 2D bilateral filtering, edge detection, multithreshold image segmentation, morphological image processing, and image labeling, to extract wheezing features according to computerized respiratory sound analysis (CORSA) standards. These features were then used to train the support vector machine (SVM) and build the classification models. The trained model was used to analyze sound data to detect wheezing. The system runs on a Xilinx Virtex-6 FPGA ML605 platform. The experimental results revealed that the system offered excellent wheezing recognition performance (0.912). The detection process can be used with a clock frequency of 51.97 MHz, and is able to perform rapid wheezing classification.
Reliability, Validity, and Significance of Assessment of Sense of Contribution in the Workplace
Authors: Takaki Jiro , Taniguchi Toshiyo , Fujii Yasuhito
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the validity and reliability of the Sense of Contribution Scale (SCS), a newly developed, 7-item questionnaire used to measure sense of contribution in the workplace. Workers at 272 organizations answered questionnaires that included the SCS. Because of non-participation or missing data, the number of subjects included in the analyses for internal consistency and validity varied from 1,675 to 2,462 (response rates 54.6%–80.2%). Fifty-four workers were included in the analysis of test–retest reliability (response rate, 77.1%). The SCS showed high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α coefficients in men and women were 0.85 and 0.86, respectively) and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.91). Significant (p < 0.001), positive, moderate correlations were found between the SCS score and scores for organization-based self-esteem and work engagement in both genders, which support the SCS’s convergent and discriminant validity. The criterion validity of the SCS was supported by the finding that in both genders, the SCS scores were significantly (p < 0.05) and inversely associated with psychological distress and sleep disturbance in crude and in multivariable analyses that adjusted for demographics, organization-based self-esteem, work engagement, effort–reward ratio, workplace bullying, and procedural and interactional justice. The SCS is a psychometrically satisfactory measure of sense of contribution in the workplace. The SCS provides a new and useful instrument to measure sense of contribution, which is independently associated with mental health in workers, for studies in organizational science, occupational health psychology and occupational medicine.
Enhanced Bonding Strength of Hydrophobically Modified Gelatin Films on Wet Blood Vessels
Authors: Yoshizawa Keiko , Taguchi Tetsushi
Published: January 2014

The bonding behavior between hydrophobically modified alkaline-treated gelatin (hm-AlGltn) films and porcine blood vessels was evaluated under wet conditions. Hexanoyl (Hx: C6), decanoyl (Dec: C10), and stearyl (Ste: C18) chlorides were introduced into the amino groups of AlGltn to obtain HxAlGltn, DecAlGltn, and SteAlGltn, respectively, with various modification percentages. The hm-AlGltn was fabricated into films and thermally crosslinked to obtain water-insoluble films (t-hm-AlGltn). The 42% modified t-HxAlGltn (t-42HxAlGltn) possessed higher wettability than the 38% modified t-DecAlGltn (t-38DecAlGltn) and the 44% modified t-SteAlGltn (t-44SteAlGltn) films, and the t-42HxAlGltn film showed a high bonding strength with the blood vessel compared with all the hm-AlGltn films. Histological observations indicated that t-42HxAlGltn and t-38DecAlGltn remained on the blood vessel even after the bonding strength measurements. From cell culture experiments, the t-42HxAlGltn films showed significant cell adhesion compared to other films. These findings indicate that the Hx group easily interpenetrated the surface of blood vessels and effectively enhanced the bonding strength between the films and the tissue.
Int6/eIF3e Is Essential for Proliferation and Survival of Human Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Sesen Julie , Cammas Anne , Scotland Sarah , Elefterion Bertand , Lemarié Anthony , Millevoi Stefania , Mathew Lijoy , Seva Cathy , Toulas Christine , Moyal Elizabeth , Skuli Nicolas
Published: January 2014

Glioblastomas (GBM) are very aggressive and malignant brain tumors, with frequent relapses despite an appropriate treatment combining surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In GBM, hypoxia is a characteristic feature and activation of Hypoxia Inducible Factors (HIF-1α and HIF-2α) has been associated with resistance to anti-cancer therapeutics. Int6, also named eIF3e, is the “e” subunit of the translation initiation factor eIF3, and was identified as novel regulator of HIF-2α. Eukaryotic initiation factors (eIFs) are key factors regulating total protein synthesis, which controls cell growth, size and proliferation. The functional significance of Int6 and the effect of Int6/EIF3E gene silencing on human brain GBM has not yet been described and its role on the HIFs is unknown in glioma cells. In the present study, we show that Int6/eIF3e suppression affects cell proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis of various GBM cells. We highlight that Int6 inhibition induces a diminution of proliferation through cell cycle arrest and increased apoptosis. Surprisingly, these phenotypes are independent of global cell translation inhibition and are accompanied by decreased HIF expression when Int6 is silenced. In conclusion, we demonstrate here that Int6/eIF3e is essential for proliferation and survival of GBM cells, presumably through modulation of the HIFs.
Environmental Risk of Metal Mining Contaminated River Bank Sediment at Redox-Transitional Zones
Authors: Lynch Sarah , Batty Lesley , Byrne Patrick
Published: January 2014

Diffuse metal pollution from mining impacted sediment is widely recognised as a potential source of contamination to river systems and may significantly hinder the achievement of European Union Water Framework Directive objectives. Redox-transitional zones that form along metal contaminated river banks as a result of flood and drought cycles could cause biogeochemical changes that alter the behaviour of polyvalent metals iron and manganese and anions such as sulphur. Trace metals are often partitioned with iron, manganese and sulphur minerals in mining-contaminated sediment, therefore the dissolution and precipitation of these minerals may influence the mobility of potentially toxic trace metals. Research indicates that freshly precipitated metal oxides and sulphides may be more “reactive” (more adsorbent and prone to dissolution when conditions change) than older crystalline forms. Fluctuations at the oxic-anoxic interface brought about through changes in the frequency and duration of flood and drought episodes may therefore influence the reactivity of secondary minerals that form in the sediment and the flux of dissolved trace metal release. UK climate change models predict longer dry periods for some regions, interspersed with higher magnitude flood events. If we are to fully comprehend the future environmental risk these climate change events pose to mining impacted river systems it is recommended that research efforts focus on identifying the primary controls on trace metal release at the oxic-anoxic interface for flood and drought cycles of different duration and frequency. This paper critically reviews the literature regarding biogeochemical processes that occur at different temporal scales during oxic, reducing and dry periods and focuses on how iron and sulphur based minerals may alter in form and reactivity and influence the mobility of trace metal contaminants. It is clear that changes in redox potential can alter the composition of secondary iron and sulphur minerals and influence the sorption of toxic trace metals and susceptibility to dissolution when further redox potential changes occur. However further work is needed to determine: (i) The extent to which different duration and frequency of wet and dry cycles influences the dissolution and precipitation of iron and sulphur minerals in mining contaminated river bank sediment; (ii) The temporal effects on mineral reactivity (sorption capacity and susceptibility to dissolution); (iii) The key biogeochemical processes that control the mobility of contaminant trace metals under these dynamic redox potential conditions.
Correlation between Inflammatory Markers of Atherosclerosis and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Ciccone Marco , Scicchitano Pietro , Zito Annapaola , Cortese Francesca , Boninfante Barbara , Falcone Vito , Quaranta Vitaliano , Ventura Valentina , Zucano Antonietta , Di Serio Francesca , Damiani Mario , Resta Onofrio
Published: January 2014

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep-related breathing disorder associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis. Systemic inflammation plays an important role in the development of cardiovascular complications in OSA patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and inflammatory markers plasma levels in OSA patients. We enrolled 80 OSA patients and 40 controls matched for age and body mass index (BMI). The presence and severity of sleep apnea was determined by in-laboratory portable monitoring (PM). Demographic data, blood pressure, heart rate, and cIMT were measured. High-sensitive C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP), interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and pentraxin (PTX)-3 serum concentrations were detected. cIMT was higher in OSA patients than controls (0.89 ± 0.13 mm vs. 0.65 ± 0.1 mm, p < 0.01). Moderate-severe OSA patients (0.95 ± 0.09 mm) had significantly increased cIMT than mild OSA (0.76 ± 0.1 mm; p < 0.01) and control (0.65 ± 0.1 mm; p < 0.01). hsCRP, IL-6, TNF-α, and PTX-3 in patients with OSA (1.67 ± 0.66 mg/L, 2.86 ± 1.39 pg/mL, 20.09 ± 5.39 pg/mL, 2.1 ± 0.59 ng/mL, respectively) were significantly higher than in controls (1.08 ± 0.53 mg/L, p < 0.01; 1.5 ± 0.67 pg/mL, p < 0.01; 12.53 ± 3.48 pg/mL, p < 0.01; 1.45 ± 0.41 ng/mL, p < 0.01, respectively). Carotid IMT was significantly correlated to CRP (r = 0.44; p < 0.01), IL-6 (r = 0.42; p < 0.01), TNF-α (r = 0.53; p < 0.01), and PTX-3 (r = 0.49; p < 0.01). OSA patients showed increased cIMT, CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, and PTX-3 levels. Inflammatory markers levels are correlated to cIMT in OSA patients.
Numerical Modeling of Sub-Wavelength Anti-Reflective Structures for Solar Module Applications
Authors: Han Katherine , Chang Chih-Hung
Published: January 2014

This paper reviews the current progress in mathematical modeling of anti-reflective subwavelength structures. Methods covered include effective medium theory (EMT), finite-difference time-domain (FDTD), transfer matrix method (TMM), the Fourier modal method (FMM)/rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA) and the finite element method (FEM). Time-based solutions to Maxwell’s equations, such as FDTD, have the benefits of calculating reflectance for multiple wavelengths of light per simulation, but are computationally intensive. Space-discretized methods such as FDTD and FEM output field strength results over the whole geometry and are capable of modeling arbitrary shapes. Frequency-based solutions such as RCWA/FMM and FEM model one wavelength per simulation and are thus able to handle dispersion for regular geometries. Analytical approaches such as TMM are appropriate for very simple thin films. Initial disadvantages such as neglect of dispersion (FDTD), inaccuracy in TM polarization (RCWA), inability to model aperiodic gratings (RCWA), and inaccuracy with metallic materials (FDTD) have been overcome by most modern software. All rigorous numerical methods have accurately predicted the broadband reflection of ideal, graded-index anti-reflective subwavelength structures; ideal structures are tapered nanostructures with periods smaller than the wavelengths of light of interest and lengths that are at least a large portion of the wavelengths considered.
Are Spiritual Experiences through Music Seen as Intrinsic or Extrinsic?
Authors: Atkins Peter , Schubert Emery
Published: January 2014

Music has a great capacity to afford spiritual experiences, but are those experiences intrinsic or extrinsic to the music? This paper reports the results of research aimed at answering that research question. One hundred and seventeen self-reported Christian religious people completed a survey, answering eight rating-item questions about strong musical experiences, both in a religious and a non-religious context. Factor analysis revealed that ratings related to spirituality grouped together, but were separate from intrinsic and extrinsic semantic groupings, suggesting that there is something special about the phenomenon of spiritual experiences with music that is beyond a simple identifiable source. We concluded that spirituality, therefore, appears to be something profound and transcendent that comes to life with the musical forms, rather than being perceived as either explicitly intrinsic or extrinsic to the music. In the religious context, experiences were stronger, more spiritual, and more emotional, but in the non-religious context experiences elicited similar features, just to a lesser degree. This suggests the phenomenon is not merely a product of religion. This research, although limited due to its quantitative nature, demonstrated an important place for spirituality within the experience of music, and therefore places a call on the research community to invest more in understanding this phenomenon.
In-Field Absolute Calibration of Ground and Airborne VIS-NIR-SWIR Hyperspectral Point Spectrometers
Authors: Rozenstein Offer , Devir Adam , Karnieli Arnon
Published: January 2014

Spectrometer calibration and measurements of spectral radiance are often required when performing ground, aerial, and space measurements. While calibrating a spectrometer in the field using an integrating sphere is practically unachievable, calibration against a quartz halogen (QH) lamp is a quite easy and feasible option. We describe a calibration protocol whereby a professional QH lamp, operating with a stabilized current source, is first calibrated in the laboratory against a US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceable integrating sphere and, then, used for the field calibration of a spectrometer before a ground or airborne campaign. Another advantage of the lamp over the integrating sphere is its ability to create a continuous calibration curve at the spectrometer resolution, while the integrating sphere is calibrated only for a few discrete wavelengths. A calibrated lamp could also be used for a secondary continuous calibration of an un-calibrated integrating sphere.
3D Joint Speaker Position and Orientation Tracking with Particle Filters
Authors: Segura Carlos , Hernando Javier
Published: January 2014

This paper addresses the problem of three-dimensional speaker orientation estimation in a smart-room environment equipped with microphone arrays. A Bayesian approach is proposed to jointly track the location and orientation of an active speaker. The main motivation is that the knowledge of the speaker orientation may yield an increased localization performance and vice versa. Assuming that the sound produced by the speaker is originated from his mouth, the center of the head is deduced based on the estimated head orientation. Moreover, the elevation angle of the head of the speaker can be partly inferred from the fast vertical movements of the computed mouth location. In order to test the performance of the proposed algorithm, a new multimodal dataset has been recorded for this purpose, where the corresponding 3D orientation angles are acquired by an inertial measurement unit (IMU) provided by accelerometers, magnetometers and gyroscopes in the three-axes. The proposed joint algorithm outperforms a two-step approach in terms of localization and orientation angle precision assessing the superiority of the joint approach.
A MISO UCA Beamforming Dimmable LED System for Indoor Positioning
Authors: Taparugssanagorn Attaphongse , Siwamogsatham Siwaruk , Pomalaza-Ráez Carlos
Published: January 2014

The use of a multiple input single output (MISO) transmit beamforming system using dimmable light emitting arrays (LEAs) in the form of a uniform circular array (UCA) of transmitters is proposed in this paper. With this technique, visible light communications between a transmitter and a receiver (LED reader) can be achieved with excellent performance and the receiver’s position can be estimated. A hexagonal lattice alignment of LED transmitters is deployed to reduce the coverage holes and the areas of overlapping radiation. As a result, the accuracy of the position estimation is better than when using a typical rectangular grid alignment. The dimming control is done with pulse width modulation (PWM) to obtain an optimal closed loop beamforming and minimum energy consumption with acceptable lighting.
Intercorrelations of Intimacy and Identity Dating Goals with Relationship Behaviors and Satisfaction among Young Heterosexual Couples
Authors: Zimmer-Gembeck Melanie , Arnhold Vanessa , Connolly Jennifer
Published: January 2014

Goals indicate what individuals are working towards in their present lives and what they want to achieve or avoid. In this study of 87 young, unmarried couples (age 17 to 25 years), intimacy and identity dating goals were assessed to investigate couple similarity in goals, associations between personal goals and relationship behaviors, and whether goals and behavior were associated with relationship satisfaction. Couples were similar in their intimacy goals but not their identity goals. As expected, intimacy goals were associated with behaviors when reported by the partner, including greater warmth, autonomy support and structure, and less rejection. One’s own intimacy goals and the positive behaviors of one’s partner, but not one’s own identity goals or the goals of the partner, were uniquely associated with relationship satisfaction. The findings suggest that individual differences in dating goals are relevant to understanding how young people behave with their partners, and why some individuals are more or less satisfied with their relationships.
Reconversion des élites agraires.
Authors: Garcia Afrânio
Published: January 2014

Après la révolution de 1930, l'État brésilien a connu une centralisation sans précédent et la création d'institutions publiques nouvelles liées à la modernisation sociale, économique et culturelle du pays. L'analyse des biographies et de l'activité politique des deux principaux leaders de ce mouvement dans le Nordeste - l'un militaire, l'autre civil - permet de comprendre comment les descendants des familles de grands planteurs en déclin, localisées dans des régions marginales par rapport au pouvoir central et cherchant à se reclasser, ont contribué à la reconstruction de l'État national. Leur nouvelle autorité et les innovations institutionnelles introduites ont permis d'établir ou de renforcer localement le pouvoir de leurs alliés.
A Terrorist Organization that Never Was: The Jordanian “Bay'at al-Imam” Group
Authors: Wagemakers Joas
Published: January 2014

This article deals with a radical Jordanian Islamist group wrongly called “Bay'at al-Imam,” which existed from 1992–99 and included later al-Qa'ida fighter Abu Mus'ab al-Zarqawi. It attempts to shed light on this group, which has received little Western scholarly or
media attention, by correcting earlier notions about its supposedly terrorist character and goals. Moreover, this article seeks to increase our understanding of ongoing debates between Jordanian radicals by focusing on their origins in this period in the 1990s.
Secondary amine-initiated three-component synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidinones and thiones involving alkynes, aldehydes and thiourea/urea
Authors: Wan Jie-Ping , Lin Yunfang , Hu Kaikai , Liu Yunyun
Published: January 2014

The three-component reactions of aldehydes, electron deficient alkynes and ureas/thioureas have been smoothly performed to yield a class of unprecedented 3,4-dihydropyrimidinones and thiones (DHPMs). The reactions are initiated by the key transformation of an enamine-type activation involving the addition of a secondary amine to an alkyne, which enables the subsequent incorporation of aldehydes and ureas/thioureas. This protocol tolerates a broad range of aryl- or alkylaldehydes, N-substituted and unsubstituted ureas/thioureas and alkynes to yield the corresponding DHPMs with specific regioselectivity.
Building and Maintaining Relationships through Social Media
Authors: Agozzino Alisa
Published: January 2014

In recent years, social media tools such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and blogs have rocked the higher education world. No longer is just being present on these mediums enough. Integration of social media tools into daily practices through monitoring, teaching, and collaboration allows those in higher education to build and maintain relationships with key publics. From devising social media goals and objectives to monitoring channels and evaluating efforts, social media can be integrated into the higher education arena. In this chapter, multiple dimensions of social media tools and the various ways those in higher education can integrate those tools into operation are exposed and elaborated upon. In an effort to provide readers with best practices, ideas are shared to present those in higher education with optimal ways to connect, build, and maintain relationships with others both internally and externally.
The Concept of Ethos as a Tool for Assessing Civility
Authors: Cline Benjamin J.
Published: January 2014

Civility in computer-mediated communication, especially in the computer-mediated classroom, has been a topic of numerous inquiries. For this reason, teaching of the means and reasons for civil computer-mediated communication has become increasingly necessary. In order to accomplish this, the chapter explores past research which indicates major sources of incivility that have emerged in computer-mediated culture. The chapter then argues that civil discourse is also the most effective and useful form of discourse, and show it needs to be communicated to students. This chapter then offers concrete means of teaching civility in computer-mediated communication by teaching civility as tied to the rhetorical concept of ethos already taught in the Public Speaking class.
Killing the “Quit Point”
Authors: Becker David
Published: January 2014

This article seeks to find a solution for one of the largest causes of student attrition: writing in general, and more specifically, research writing. The population of freshman, transfer, and non-traditional students that can be found in freshman composition classes is an at-risk group that deserves special attention, and this article offers ways to improve the attrition numbers both through the use of technology as well as changing the way we view student improvement and progression regarding their writing ability. Colleges and Universities need to do more to help students be successful as college students, and this paper presents suggestions to do just that.
Creating a Collaborative Community in Online Environments
Authors: Decker Jessica C. , Beltran Valerie , Matzaganian Mark , Walker Nancy T. , Elzarka Sammy
Published: January 2014

This chapter examines the complexities of creating a collaborative community in online classes. A fully online Master’s of Education program is studied, with students being surveyed regarding their experiences with collaboration in the online courses. Results of the study are discussed, along with recommendations for establishing a sense of community in the online environment. Recommendations include structuring introductory activities for the instructor and students, providing opportunities for authentic collaboration and communication through tools such as blogs and wikis, and guidelines for establishing effective group projects in an online class. Suggestions for future research are also included. Overall, a case is made for the importance of creating meaningful collaborative experiences for students within the context of class content in online courses.
Communication and Collaboration Strategies for an Effective Online Professor
Authors: Miller Heather , Cavanagh Tom , Furr Annissa
Published: January 2014

Online classes in higher education bring unique challenges to faculty. This chapter identifies best practices for effectively communicating and collaborating with students online. The information presented was gained via “crowd science” qualitative methodology, in which online faculty responded via email and a blog post requesting best practices for effectively communicating and collaborating with peers and students online. Faculty were from diverse backgrounds and teaching experiences. Data are presented in concert with recent research in the field of effective online learning and communication with students. The current literature in tandem with the data provides an effective collection of practices to provide online instructors with a guide to successfully facilitate online classes.
Reduced Intensity Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant for Treatment of Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm
Authors: Lokare Anand , Nikolousis Emmanouil , Phillips Neil , Rudzki Zbignieuw , Lovell Richard , Kishore Bhuvan , Milligan Don , Paneesha Shankara
Published: January 2014

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm is a rare, aggressive tumor characterized by skin and/or marrow infiltration by CD4+ CD56+ cells. Historically, the tumor was variably thought to arise from either monocytes, T cells or NK cells giving rise to terms such as CD4+/CD56+ acute monoblastic leukemia, primary cutaneous CD4+/CD56+ hematodermic tumor and blastic NK-cell lymphoma. Whilst considerable progress has been made in understanding the histogenesis, the best modality of treatment remains to be defined. We are therefore reporting this case which was successfully treated with a T-deplete allogeneic transplant and the patient is currently alive and in remission 4 years post transplant.
Evaluation of two different root-end cavity preparation techniques: A scanning electron microscope study
Authors: Aydemir Seda , Cimilli Hale , Yoruç Afife Binnaz Hazar , Kartal Nevin
Published: January 2014

Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate and compare the dentinal walls of root-end cavities for the presence of cracks after cavity preparation using US retrotips and Er: YAG laser. Materials and Methods: Fifty single-rooted teeth were prepared by Protaper NiTi rotary system and obturated by lateral condensation. Three milimeters of root-end was resected. Twenty teeth were prepared with US retrotip (Group 1), 20 teeth with Er: YAG laser (Group 2), and 10 teeth without retropreparation (control group). The root-end surfaces were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Then the cracks of the resected root surfaces were evaluated on microphotographs. Results: No statistically significant difference was detected between US Group and Laser Group for complete, incomplete, intradentinal, and total number of cracks (P = 0.47, P = 0.80, P = 0.69, P = 0.869, respectively). Conclusion: Statistical analysis revealed no significant effect of retropreparation technique on the development of apical cracks (P > 0.05).
Correlation between the salivary Streptococcus mutans levels and dental caries experience in adult population of Chandigarh, India
Authors: Pannu Parampreet , Gambhir Ramandeep , Sujlana Amrita
Published: January 2014

Objective: To determine the level of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) in adults of Chandigarh and to correlate the dental caries in these individuals with their S. mutans titers. Materials and Methods: Salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans, using Dentocult SM commercial kits were estimated in 200, 25-35 year old adults (males and females). Streptococcus mutans were detected in 87% of the study sample. Score 2, representing 105 - 106 CFU/ml (Colony Forming Unit) of saliva was found to be most prevalent, i.e. in 80 of 200 adults, followed by score 1, depicting S mutans with <105 CFU/ml, in 56 of 200 adults and score 3, with bacterial titer <106 CFU/ml in 38 of 200 adults. Results: Dental caries, recorded using Møller′s index, was found to be maximum in individuals with score 3, followed by score 2,1 and 0, thereby showing a positive correlation of dental caries with increasing titers of S. mutans. This correlation was statistically highly significant in males with figures as 8.73 decayed surfaces at score 2 rising to 17.38 at score 3. The mean of DMFT was higher among females than in the males in the present study. Conclusion: The split up data in males and females, showed a positive association between caries experience and salivary S. mutans scores. The results of the study will serve as a baseline data for future planning of preventive programs in adults.
Evaluation of dental students′ perception and self-confidence levels regarding endodontic treatment
Authors: Tanalp Jale , Güven Esra Pamukçu , Oktay Inci
Published: January 2014

Objectives: The aim of this study was to obtain information about senior dental students′ perceptions and self-confidence levels regarding endodontic practice. Materials and Methods: Anonymous survey forms were handed out to senior students at Yeditepe University, Faculty of Dentistry. The students were asked to score their level of confidence using a 5-point scale and comment about future practices. Results: The response rate of the survey was 88%. 11.9% expressed endodontics as the first branch in terms of difficulty. The majority (90.5%) indicated they would perform root canal treatments within their expertise limit in the future but refer difficult cases to an endodontist. Bleaching of endodontically treated teeth, managing flare-ups, placement of a rubber dam were procedures in which students reported the lowest confidence (2.55 ± 1.17, 3.24 ± 0.96, 3.24 ± 1.19, respectively). On the other hand, students felt the lowest confidence in the treatment of maxillary molars followed by mandibular molars (3.43 ± 1.02 and 3.93 ± 0.97, respectively). Students also reported the lowest confidence in root resorptions, endo-perio lesions, traumas, retreatments and apexifications (2.93 ± 1.16, 3.07 ± 0.89, 3.24 ± 0.85, 3.33 ± 1.7 and 3.36 ± 1.1, respectively). Conclusions: The results showing students′ lower confidence in more challenging aspects of dentistry may be related with the attitude of dental schools to refer these cases to post graduate students and instilling information about these cases on a theoretical basis only. Though there seems to be a tendency for students to refer challenging cases to a specialist in future, authorities should give priority to enhance the way information and experience is conveyed regarding various aspects of endodontic treatment.
A case of accidental aspiration of an endodontic instrument by a child treated under conscious sedation
Authors: R. Mahesh , Prasad Vishnu , Menon Padma A.
Published: January 2014

Dental management of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often requires the need for pharmacological behavior management techniques such as the use of sedation. The purpose of this article is to describe a clinical case involving accidental aspiration of an Endodontic instrument during root canal therapy under sedation. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of aspiration of an Endodontic instrument and should serve to heighten the awareness with regard to aspiration during dental procedures under sedation. It also emphasizes the need for proper isolation techniques in patients treated under sedation, thereby preventing such complications.
Fused primary first mandibular macromolar with a unique relation to its permanent successors: A rare tooth anomaly
Authors: Dhindsa Abhishek , Garg Shalini , Damle S. G. , Opal Shireen , Singh Tavleen
Published: January 2014

Dental anomalies of number and forms may occur in the primary and permanent dentition. Various terms have been used to describe dental twinning anomalies: Germination, fusion, concrescence, double teeth, conjoined teeth, twinned teeth, geminifusion, and vicinifusion. Fused tooth is a developmental anomaly that is seen more frequently in the primary than the permanent dentition. Double tooth involving deciduous anterior teeth is found mostly in the mandible.Very few cases of nonsyndromic double primary molar have been reported in the literature. The succeeding permanent tooth is often found missing congenitally in the same region. This article reports a very rare unilateral occurrence of an anomalous, primary mandibular first macromolar formed by fusion with a dysmorphic premolar like supernumerary tooth in deciduous dentition period. Instead of agenesis of succedaneous tooth, the double tooth has been succeeded by normally developing mandibular first premolar in the same region.
Chemoprevention of premalignant and malignant lesions of oral cavity: Recent trends
Authors: Bodhade Ashish S. , Dive Alka M.
Published: January 2014

The word chemoprevention includes prevention of initiation, promotion, and progression of carcinogenesis to cancer. This article is an attempt to review the dietary chemopreventive agents and their mode of action in chemoprevention of oral premalignant lesions and oral cancer using a systematic approach. Selected chemoprevention trials are discussed with a focus on strategies of trial design and clinical outcome. Future in the field of chemoprevention will be more promising than the recently available therapeutic alternatives.
Reappraisal of the removable partial denture as a treatment option for the shortened dental arch
Authors: Nassani Mohammad Zakaria , Tarakji Bassel , Baroudi Kusai , Sakka Salah
Published: January 2014

For patients with shortened dental arches, many treatment options are available. The existing situation can be maintained by stabilizing the present dentition and improving the occlusion without extending the arch. Alternatively, the shortened dental arch can be extended by either a free-end saddle removable partial denture, cantilevered fixed bridge, or by an implant-supported prosthesis. The free-end saddle removable partial denture can be considered a simple, non-invasive, and relatively cheap treatment option for the shortened dental arch. It was believed that such prosthodontic rehabilitation would be beneficial for the patients in terms of improving oral functions. However, the existing literature indicates that the prognosis of free-end saddle removable partial denture is not predictable, it is problematic, and its contribution to oral functions in patients with shortened dental arches is considered to be dubious. This paper reviews and summarizes the current literature about the outcome of extending the shortened dental arch by a free-end saddle removable partial denture. It also outlines factors that may affect the prognosis of this prosthetic treatment.
Dentoalveolar surgery techniques combined with orthodontic treatment: A literature review
Authors: Uzuner F. Deniz , Darendeliler Nilufer
Published: January 2014

Surgery on the dentoalveolar process combined with orthodontic treatment was emphasized as an alternative method for reducing the treatment time and improving the orthodontic treatment on post-adolescent and adult patients. This combined treatment facilitates and accelerates orthodontic tooth movement. This article reviews the clinical practice in surgery-assisted orthodontic treatment in relation to historical perspective, indications and biological principles, as well as limitations and risks of dento-osseous surgical techniques, including dento-osseous osteotomy and/or ostectomy, dento-osseous microfracture, dento-osseous corticotomy, and/or corticoectomy, and dental distraction.
Nitric Oxide Deficiency in Pulmonary Hypertension: Pathobiology and Implications for Therapy
Authors: Tonelli Adriano R. , Haserodt Sarah , Aytekin Metin , Dweik Raed A.
Published: January 2014

Nitric oxide (NO) is a diffusible gas with diverse roles in human physiology and disease. Significant progress in the understanding of its biological effects has taken place in recent years. This has led to a better understanding of the pathobiology of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and the development of new therapies. This article provides an overview of the NO physiology and its role in the pathobiology of lung diseases, particularly PH. We also discuss current and emerging specific treatments that target NO signaling pathways in PH.
Pim‐1: A New Biomarker in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Renard Sébastien , Paulin Roxane , Breuils‐Bonnet Sandra , Simard Serge , Pibarot Philippe , Bonnet Sébastien , Provencher Steeve
Published: January 2014

Provirus integration site for Moloney murine leukemia virus (Pim‐1) is an oncoprotein overexpressed in lungs from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients and involved in cell proliferation via the activation of the NFAT/STAT3 signaling pathway. We hypothesized that Pim‐1 plasma levels would predict the presence of PAH and correlate with disease severity. Pim‐1 plasma levels were measured at the time of catheterization in 49 PAH patients, including nonvasoreactive (n = 19) and vasoreactive idiopathic PAH (n = 5), and PAH related to connective tissue disease (n = 16) and congenital heart disease (n = 9). Fifty controls were also recruited. The capacity of Pim‐1 to discriminate PAH from controls and its association with disease severity were assessed. Pim‐1 plasma levels were higher in PAH than in controls (9.6 ± 4.0 vs. 7.2 ± 2.4 ng/mL, P > 0.01). Pim‐1 appropriately discriminated proliferative PAH from controls (AUC = 0.78 to 0.94 using ROC curves). Among PAH patients, Pim‐1 correlated with traditional markers of PAH severity. The 1‐year survival was 97% and 47% for PAH patients with baseline Pim‐1 levels lower and higher than 11.1 ng/mL, respectively (HR 11.4 (3.3‐39.7); P > 0.01). After adjustment for hemodynamic and biochemical variables, Pim‐1 levels remained an independent predictor of mortality (P > 0.01). Pim‐1 is a promising new biomarker in PAH.
Differences between Basal Lung Levels of Select Eicosanoids in Rat and Mouse
Authors: Sagliani Kristen D. , Dolnikowski Gregory G. , Hill Nicholas S. , Fanburg Barry L. , Levy Bruce D. , Preston Ioana R.
Published: January 2014

Metabolites of arachidonic acid play an important role in mediating inflammation, cell proliferation, and oxidative stress that contribute to many pulmonary diseases. We hypothesized that the substantial differences between rats and mice in their responses to experimental pulmonary hypertensive stimuli would be associated with parallel differences in their basal eicosanoid profile. Rat and mouse lung extracts were subjected to liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry that was optimized for simultaneous separation and rapid quantification of the major hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs) and prostaglandins (PGs). Basal levels (pg/μg protein) of arachidonic acid metabolites differed significantly between rat and mouse lungs. Median values of the following major eicosanoids were significantly higher in mouse than in rat lungs: 5‐HETE, 8‐HETE, 12‐HETE, 15‐HETE, PGE2, and PGI2, as well as isoprostane‐E2 and ‐F2α. In addition, the PGI2/TXB2 ratio was increased in mouse relative to rat lungs. On the basis of the important roles that these compounds play in determining pulmonary vascular tone, the differences in select eicosanoid profiles, especially the PGI2/TXB2 ratio, between rat and mouse lungs may underlie the interspecies differences in susceptibility to the development of pulmonary hypertension.