bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Video Shot Boundary Detection Technique based on Stochastic Model
Authors: Al-Jarrah Mohammad A. , Al-Omari Faruq A.
Published: November 2016

A video is composed of set of shots, where shot is defined as a sequence of consecutive frames captured by one camera without interruption. In video shot transition could be a prompt (hard cut) or gradual (fade, dissolve, and wipe). Shot boundary detection is an essential component of video processing. These boundaries are utilized on many aspect of video processing such as video indexing, and video in demand. In this paper, the authors proposed a new shot boundary detection algorithm. The proposed algorithm detects all type of shot boundaries in a high accuracy. The algorithm is developed based on a global stochastic model for video stream. The proposed stochastic model utilizes the joined characteristic function and consequently the joined momentum to model the video stream. The proposed algorithm is implemented and tested against different types of categorized videos. The proposed algorithm detects cuts fades, dissolves, and wipes transitions. Experimental results show that the algorithm has high performance. The computed precision and recall rates validated its performance.
Scale Space Co-Occurrence HOG Features for Word Spotting in Handwritten Document Images
Authors: Thontadari C. , Prabhakar C. J.
Published: November 2016

In this paper, the authors proposed a Scale Space Co-occurrence Histograms of Oriented Gradients method (SS Co-HOG) for retrieving words from digitized handwritten documents. The poor performance of HOG based word spotting in handwritten documents is due to that HOG ignores spatial information of neighboring pixels whereas Co-HOG captures the spatial information of neighboring pixels through counting the occurrence of the gradient orientations of two or more neighboring pixels. The authors employed three scale parameter representation of an image and at each scale, they divide the word image into blocks and Co-HOG features are extracted from each block and finally concatenate them into form a feature descriptor. The proposed method is evaluated using precision and recall metrics through experimentation conducted on popular datasets such as IAM and GW and confirmed that their method outperforms for both the datasets.
Self-Management of Diabetes Mellitus with Remote Monitoring
Authors: Mushcab Hayat , Kernohan William George , Wallace Jonathan , Harper Roy , Martin Suzanne
Published: November 2016

Purpose: The efficacy of one remote monitoring system was reviewed in order to explore if optimal self-management of diabetes was achieved. Methods: Medical records of 214 patients with diabetes were reviewed from seven diabetes clinics within a single Health & Social Care trust using a remote monitoring solution to help patients self-manage their condition. Data on HbA1c, blood glucose, blood pressure and body mass index were obtained from the patient's medical record, before and after using the remote monitoring solution. Results: The average age of users was 61 years: 60% of the sample were male. The average time living with diabetes was 14 years; the mean duration with remote telemonitoring was 147 days. A greater reduction in HbA1c was seen with female users compared to males 2.37% and 0.87%, respectively. Conclusion: Remote telemonitoring provided the opportunity to collect comprehensive data, allowing patients to be maintained at home, while showing significant improvement in their HbA1c and better overall management of their diabetes
PAR and Digital Inclusion, An Analysis Using the Capabilities Approach and Critical Pedagogy
Authors: Villalba Sammia Cristina Poveda
Published: November 2016

This paper draws upon the capability approach and critical pedagogy to analyse the value of using Problem-posing Education, a participatory action research method, in a digital inclusion initiative in Brazil. First it the capability approach and explains why using critical pedagogy is a valuable way to deal with issues of power, collective conscientisation and adaptive preference. Freire's pedagogy is then presented and conscientisation is explained as a process of raising critical awareness and praxis. The case study, presents empirical work conducted in Campinas, together with a NGO named CDI, which offers free internet access and basic ICT skills using a Freire's inspired methodology. Findings are then explained and discussed using the theoretical framework. This paper concludes that there is great value in using Freire's critical pedagogy for digital inclusion, but that further research is necessary to identify less resource intense solutions that can provide students with both conscientisation and skills.
Conducting Video Research in the Social and Solidarity Economy
Authors: Calvo Sara , Morales Andres
Published: November 2016

This paper focuses on the potential use of visual research for the study of the social and solidarity economy, by presenting some of the methodological insights and challenges that arise for the use of video research in the study of such initiatives reflecting on the authors experience of the Living in Minca project. This paper contributes to advancing the debate on the use of non-conventional research methods and the impact that visual researchers can make by empowering small and local practices, which are part of the so-called ‘Cinderella' economy towards social justice and reaching audiences outside academia.
Privacy and Territoriality Issues in an Online Social Learning Portal
Authors: Anwar Mohd , Brusilovsky Peter
Published: November 2016

Following the popularity of Wikipedia, community authoring systems are increasingly in use as content sharing outlets. As such, a Web-based portal for sharing of user-generated content (e.g., course notes, quiz answers, etc.) shows prospect to be a great tool for social E-Learning. Among others, students are expected to be active contributors in such systems in order to offer and receive peer-help. However, privacy and territoriality concerns can be potential barriers to wide adoption of such technology. Understanding the preference for sharing learning content is the first step to address privacy and territoriality concerns of content providers. The authors conduct a survey among students in four university courses in order to learn their preference for sharing notes and quiz answers with three target groups: instructor, peer, and stranger (i.e., someone outside their class). The authors also examine the preference for acceptable method of sharing by inquiring about three methods: “anonymous sharing,” “pseudonymous sharing,” and “sharing with name”. They further investigate the importance of “content type,” “sharing method,” and “accessor type” on the preference for sharing. The survey also reveals respondents' self-reported reasons for controlling access to their generated learning content. The survey data indicate that even though the respondents have various levels of concerns, almost all of them are willing to share. The authors observe relationships between content type and respondents' preference over each of these parameters: accessor type, commentator type, and sharing method.
The Influence of Organizational Politics on Business-IT Alignment
Authors: Ritola Ilkka , Siugzda Rokas , Rusu Lazar
Published: November 2016

Business-IT alignment continues to remain a top management concern. Regardless of ample research, achieving and sustaining business-IT alignment remains challenging to organization's management. To this day, the influence of organizational politics remains unstudied in the light of business-IT alignment. By performing a case study in a large organization in Sweden, the authors present and discuss how organizational politics influences business-IT alignment from the viewpoint of practitioners. They find that organizational politics has a negative influence on communications, partnering, IT governance, IT scope, and business and IT skills of the Strategic Alignment Maturity model. Furthermore, the authors identified several root causes for organizational politics in the business-IT alignment context, not addressed by the commonly used business-IT alignment constructs. The findings of this research study are useful to business and IT practitioners for achieving and sustaining business-IT alignment in their organizations considering the influence of organizational politics.
QSPR Modeling is Able to Predict Retention Times of Fatty Acids Using Simple Molecular Descriptors
Authors: Duarte Mariene H. , Freitas Matheus P. , Nunes Cleiton
Published: November 2016

A QSPR modeling was carried out to predict the chromatographic retention times of a series of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) widely used as standard in the characterization of lipids from agricultural and food products. Number of carbons, total double bonds, position of double bonds and geometric isomerism were used as descriptors to generate a Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) model. The best model yielded an RMSE = 0.167 and R2 = 0.999 for the calibration set, and RMSE = 0.151 and R2 = 1.000 for the test set. Number of carbons and total double bonds were the most important descriptors, according to the regression coefficients, but position of double bonds and isomerism cannot be neglected as they provide relevant information to improve the accuracy of the predicted property.
Structural Requirement of PPARα Agonist Through QSARs and Molecular Simulation Analyses
Authors: Nandy Ashis , Saha Achintya
Published: November 2016

The present approach has aimed to investigate the physicochemical and structural requirements of a molecule to impart potential and selective PPARa agonistic activity using various ligand-based and structure-based molecular modeling techniques. These studies suggest the presence oxo heterocyclic ring connected with lipophilic substituents (phenyl, flurophenyl or any hydropbic alkyl chain) may responsible for hydrophobic interaction with the receptor. Both regression-based and classification-based QSAR, and HQSAR models infer that the ether linkage is very crucial for the activity, where as long alkyl chain or acyclic ring and the chloride substituent have detrimental effects. The pharmacophore models strongly depict the presence of two acceptors and hydrophobic region are very much essential for promising activity. The docking and MD studies suggest the presence of carboxyl group is essential for H-bond interaction with catalytic residues. The cheminformatics study provides key information on the structural pattern for imparting of potent and selective PPARa modulators.
In Silico Strategy for Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Basant Nikita , Gupta Shikha
Published: November 2016

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the third deadliest reason for mortality worldwide. An early detection of CKD would help to decelerate the loss of kidney function. Computational approaches provide opportunities to screen large populations for diagnosis of CKD. In this study, qualitative and quantitative models were developed to discriminate CKD and non-CKD subjects and to predict serum creatinine (SC) levels in populations using three simple clinical attributes as the predictors. The models were rigorously validated using stringent statistical coefficients, and applicability domains were also determined. The qualitative models yielded a binary classification accuracy >94% in test data, whereas, the quantitative models rendered a correlation (R2) of >0.94 in the test data. Values of all the statistical checks were within their respective thresholds, thus putting a high confidence in the proposed models. The proposed models can be used as the tools for screening large populations for their renal status.
Fournier’s gangrene. A clinical review
Authors: Singh Ariana , Ahmed Kamran , Aydin Abdullatif , Khan Muhammad Shamim , Dasgupta Prokar
Published: November 2016

Introduction and Hypothesis: Fournier’s gangrene is a rare, necrotising fasciitis of the external genitalia, perineal or perianal regions. The disease has a higher incidence in males and risk factors for development include diabetes, HIV, alcoholism and other immune-compromised states. The aggressive disease process is associated with a high mortality rate of 20-30%. In addition, the increasing age and prevalence of diabetes in the population, begs the need for increased clinical awareness of Fournier’s gangrene with emphasis on early diagnosis and management. This review aims to highlight the relevant research surrounding Fournier’s gangrene, in particular the various prognostic indicators and management strategies. Methods: A search was conducted on the MEDLINE database for all applicable research; clinical reviews, retrospective studies and case reports. In addition to which a search of the European Association of Urology, the British Association for Urological Surgeons and the British Medical Journal was conducted for the most recent recommendations. Results: Immediate broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy and urgent surgical debridement are the core managerial principles of Fournier’s gangrene. The use of adjunctive therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen and vacuum assisted closure are supported in some aspects of the literature and disputed in others. The lack of randomized controlled studies limits the use of these potential additional therapies to patients unresponsive to conventional management. The value of unprocessed honey as a topical antimicrobial agent has been highlighted in the literature for small lesions in uncomplicated patients. Conclusion: Fournier’s gangrene is a urological emergency with a high mortality rate despite advances in the medical and surgical fields. The aggressive nature of the infection advocates the need for early recognition allowing immediate surgical intervention. The opposing results of available research as well as the lack of high quality evidence surrounding emergent therapies prevents their routine use in the management of Fournier’s gangrene. The absence of a specific care pathway may hinder efficient management of Fournier’s gangrene, thus based on current guidelines a management pathway is suggested.
Field and laboratory methods used by the Geological Survey of Canada in geochemical surveys: preparation of geological materials for chemical and spectrochemical analysis; separation and concentration of minerals; and a guide to the identification of common minerals
Authors: Lavergne P J
Published: November 2016

This paper outlines methods for the preparation of rock, soil, drainage sediment, mineral concentrates, and biological samples for chemical analysis. The necessary equipment to carry out the preparatory work is listed and discussed, and a guide to the
identification of common minerals is included.
Geochemical, mineralogical, and textural data from tills in the Highland Valley Copper mine area, south-central British Columbia
Authors: Ferbey T , Plouffe A , Bustard A
L
Published: November 2016

Although rocks of Quesnel terrane in the Intermontane Belt of south-central British Columbia have long-been known as prolific producers of porphyry mineralization, much of the bedrock in the region is covered by glacial sediments. Nonetheless, geochemical and
mineralogical data, particularly from locally derived tills, can help detect deposits buried under Quaternary sediments. We collected till samples from 99 sites near the Highland Valley Copper mine for geochemical, indicator mineral, and grain size determinations to test the utility of the method at
a site where the configuration and tenor of ore-grade porphyry Cu mineralization are known. Landform-scale features such as drumlins, flutings, crag-and-tails mapped on aerial photographs, outcrop-scale features such as striations, grooves, and rat tails measured in the field, and data from previous
studies indicate a relatively simple regional Late Wisconsinan ice-flow history with generally southward sediment transport, making provenance determinations on subglacial tills relatively straightforward. Commonly a first derivative of bedrock, subglacial till is the ideal sample medium for till
geochemical and mineralogical surveys. Most of our samples were taken from a regionally developed till facies interpreted as a subglacial till deposited by moving ice (well compacted, markedly fissile, massive, cobble-boulder diamicton with a relatively clay-rich matrix and abundant faceted and
striated clasts). For comparison, we also collected from a more locally developed till facies interpreted as an ablation till (poorly compacted, non-fissile, massive cobble-boulder diamicton with a relatively clay-deficient matrix) that overlies the subglacial till. Quality assurance/quality control
results indicate that, uncontrolled by analytical artefact, the geochemical and mineralogical results for the dataset presented herein are suitable for geological interpretations that will be considered in future publications.
Selective laser trabeculoplasty in primary open-angle glaucoma: Primary versus secondary treatment outcomes
Authors: Goosen Emil , Visser Linda , Sartorius Ben
Published: November 2016

Objective: To compare the outcomes of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on treatmentnaive, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients with those of SLT on patients previously treated medically and/or surgically. Secondary objectives: To establish whether age, race or gender influenced SLT outcomes.Design: A retrospective chart review of patients who received SLT therapy for POAG between June 2011 and January 2015.Subjects: Group A: Treatment-naive patients (n = 15). Group B: Prior medical therapy and/or prior surgery (n = 69).Methods: Group A: Patients were treated with SLT therapy as first line, with medical treatment added as needed. Group B: Patients were treated with SLT therapy as additional therapy to medication and/or surgery. All patients were followed up for at least 1 year.Main outcome measures: A reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) of at least 20% from baseline was considered significant.Results: The following percentage reduction in IOP was found in the different groups: Group A 50.7%, Group B 32.0%, Africans 52.2%, Indians 29.8% and Caucasians 28.87%.Conclusion: In our study patients, SLT achieved significant reductions in IOPs in treatmentnaive as well as previously surgically and medically treated eyes with POAG. Statistically significant higher reductions in IOP at 1 year after SLT was seen in treatment-naive eyes, patients older than 70 years when compared with younger patients, female patients (54%) when compared with male patients (30%) and in patients of African (52%) descent compared with Caucasians (30%).
Culturally sensitive adaptation of the concept of relational communication therapy as a support to language development: An exploratory study in collaboration with a Tanzanian orphanage
Authors: Schütte Ulrike
Published: November 2016

Background: Orphans and other vulnerable children (OVC) who grow up in institutional care often show communication and language problems. The caregivers lack training, and there are few language didactics programmes aimed at supporting communication and language development in OVC in institutional care in Tanzania.Objectives: The purpose of the study was to adapt the German concept of relational communication therapy (RCT) as a support to language development in a Tanzanian early childhood education context in a culturally sensitive way. Following the adaptation of the concept, a training programme for Tanzanian caregiver students was developed to compare their competencies in language didactics before and after training.Methods: A convergent mixed methods design was used to examine changes following training in 12 participating caregiver students in a Tanzanian orphanage. The competencies in relational language didactics were assessed by a self-developed test and video recordings before and after intervention. Based on the results, we drew conclusions regarding necessary modifications to the training modules and to the concept of RCT.Results: The relational didactics competencies of the caregiver students improved significantly following their training. A detailed analysis of the four training modules showed that the improvement in relational didactics competencies varied depending on the topic and the teacher.Conclusion: The results provide essential hints for the professionalisation of caregivers and for using the concept of RCT for OVC in institutional care in Tanzania. Training programmes and concepts should not just be transferred across different cultures, disciplines and settings; they must be adapted to the specific cultural setting.
Knowledge and practice of condom use as well as perceived barriers among street adolescents in Cameroon
Authors: Cumber Samuel Nambile , Tsoka-Gwegweni Joyce M.
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Street children in Cameroon are adolescents, vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV and/or AIDS. The level of knowledge and practice of condom use among this population is unknown.Objective of the study: To assess the knowledge, practice and barriers to condom use in Cameroon.Materials and methods: The study was an analytical cross-sectional survey conducted in 2015. Questionnaires were administered to street children in a quiet location. Recruitment was made using the snowball technique with the help of peers.Results: More than 90% of participants knew of condoms, but only about 6% reported to have used a condom during their last sexual encounter. Most of the participants did not know that condoms could prevent HIV; only a few (15.5%) knew about this.Conclusion: Street adolescents in Cameroon seem to know about condoms, but have insufficient information on the importance of their regular use. The main barriers for the low practice of condom use reported by this population were the following: condoms hinder sexual pleasure; are costly; and it is embarrassing to buy, use or propose to use a condom.
Therapeutic Dilemmas regarding Anticoagulation: An Experience in a Patient with Nephrotic Syndrome, Pulmonary Embolism, and Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Akimoto Tetsu , Yamazaki Tomoyuki , Kusano Eiji , Nagata Daisuke
Published: November 2016

Patients with active bleeding complications who concomitantly develop overt pulmonary embolism (PE) present distinct therapeutic dilemmas, since they are perceived to be at substantial risk for the progression of the embolism in the absence of treatment and for aggravation of the hemorrhagic lesions if treated with anticoagulants. A 76-year-old patient with nephrotic syndrome, which is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, concurrently developed acute PE and intracranial bleeding because of traumatic brain injury. In this case, we prioritized the treatment for PE with the intravenous unfractionated heparin followed by warfarinization. Despite the transient hemorrhagic progression of the brain contusion after the institution of anticoagulation, our patient recovered favorably from the disease without any signs of neurological compromise. Several conundrums regarding anticoagulation that emerged in this case are also discussed.
A Novel Efficient Numerical Solution of Poisson's Equation for Arbitrary Shapes in Two Dimensions
Authors: Ma Zu-Hui , Chew Weng Cho , Jiang Li Jun
Published: November 2016

Even though there are various fast methods and preconditioning techniques available for the simulation of Poisson problems, little work has been done for solving Poisson's equation by using the Helmholtz decomposition scheme. To bridge this issue, we propose a novel efficient algorithm to solve Poisson's equation in irregular two dimensional domains for electrostatics through a quasi-Helmholtz decomposition technique—the loop-tree basis decomposition. It can handle Dirichlet, Neumann or mixed boundary problems in which the filling media can be homogeneous or inhomogeneous. A novel point of this method is to first find the electric flux efficiently by applying the loop-tree basis functions. Subsequently, the potential is obtained by finding the inverse of the gradient operator. Furthermore, treatments for both Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions are addressed. Finally, the validation and efficiency are illustrated by several numerical examples. Through these simulations, it is observed that the computational complexity of our proposed method almost scales as, whereNis the triangle patch number of meshes. Consequently, this new algorithm is a feasible fast Poisson solver.
A Discrete-Ordinate Discontinuous-Streamline Diffusion Method for the Radiative Transfer Equation
Authors: Wang Cheng , Sheng Qiwei , Han Weimin
Published: November 2016

The radiative transfer equation (RTE) arises in many different areas of science and engineering. In this paper, we propose and investigate a discrete-ordinate discontinuous-streamline diffusion (DODSD) method for solving the RTE, which is a combination of the discrete-ordinate technique and the discontinuous-streamline diffusion method. Different from the discrete-ordinate discontinuous Galerkin (DODG) method for the RTE, an artificial diffusion parameter is added to the test functions in the spatial discretization. Stability and error estimates in certain norms are proved. Numerical results show that the proposed method can lead to a more accurate approximation in comparison with the DODG method.
Об одном нелинейном нелокальном волновом уравнении соболевского типа
Authors: Aristov Anatoly Igorevich
Published: November 2016

В статье исследована начально-краевая задача
для нелинейного нелокального соболевского уравнения.
Найдены достаточные условия для локальной и для глобальной
по времени разрешимости. Для случая локальной (но не глобальной)
разрешимости найдены верхние и нижние оценки
времени существования решения в виде явных и неявных формул.
Библиография: 6 названий.
Неэрмитовы матрицы четного порядка и нейтральные подпространства половинной размерности
Authors: Ikramov Khakim Dododzhanovich
Published: November 2016

Полуторалинейному матричному уравнению $X^*DX+AX+X^*B+C=0$,
где все матрицы квадратные одного и того же порядка $n$,
сопоставляется блочная матрица $M$ удвоенного порядка $2n$.
Разрешимость уравнения оказывается связанной с вопросом
о существовании для этой матрицы нейтральных подпространств
размерности $n$. Указаны достаточно общие условия,
обеспечивающие существование таких подпространств.
Библиография 3 названия.
Дробные доли функции $x/n$
Authors: Shubin Andrey Vitalievich
Published: November 2016

В работе получены асимптотические формулы для сумм
значений некоторого класса гладких функций от дробных
долей чисел вида $x/n$ в случаях, когда параметр $x$
неограниченно возрастает, а целочисленная величина $n$
пробегает различные подмножества промежутка $[1,x]$.
Библиография: 11 названий.
Talleres lúdico-pedagógicos con adolescentes: una herramienta para la promoción de la salud
Authors: Ferreira Dharah Puck Cordeiro , Gonçalves Patrícia Ivanca de Espíndola
Published: November 2016

Relatar el intercambio de experiencias entre los adolescentes acerca de los temas tratados en los talleres. Se llevaron a cabo talleres lúdico-pedagógicos con adolescentes en una Unidad de Salud de la Familia en el periodo abril-junio de 2013, en el municipio de Garanhuns/PE, con la base conceptual de intervención psicosocial, ya que esto puede permitir la reflexión de los adolescentes sobre sus diversas experiencias. El sujeto expresa su subjetividad de manera diferente en cada etapa de su vida y contexto en que se insertan. Se producen, en la adolescencia, numerosos factores tales como la sexualidad, la entrada en la edad adulta, la violencia, el uso/abuso de alcohol y otras drogas, entre otros, que deben ser trabajados por los profesionales de la salud desde una perspectiva que tenga en cuenta la singularidad de cada sujeto, integralidad y articulaciones intersectoriales.
Construyendo un modelo de gestión de las emociones a través del deporte
Authors: García Mínguez Jesús , Sánchez Ramos Juan Manuel
Published: November 2016

El presente estudio tiene el propósito de convertir en medio educativo un problema generalizado entre adolescentes, como es la gestión de las emociones experimentadas durante la práctica de actividades lúdicas y deportivas. La Asociación Aldeas Infantiles SOS y la Fundación Rafa Nadal, buscan canalizar sus ideales de promoción social a través de la creación de un programa denominado “Integración y Deporte”, escenario apropiado para desarrollar la investigación. Niños y niñas de 10 a 16 años (un total de 20) en situación de riesgo de exclusión son el objeto de estudio, todos participantes del mencionado programa.  El método empleado ha girado en torno al estudio de caso, un ejemplo espejo, donde intentamos descubrir la forma en que los menores gobiernan el caudal emotivo generado por los estímulos externos, provocadores de emociones primarias como repeler la agresión con patadas, puñetazos, incultos verbales, ansiedad… Los resultados conforman un modelo educativo de autogestión de las emociones tejido en base al hallazgo de tres categorías: habilidades cognitivas, dialógicas y evitativas-distractivas.
Effect of Different Acidic Beverages on Microhardness of Nanohybrid Composite, Giomer, and Microhybrid Composite
Authors: Somayaji SK , Amalan Arul
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Degradation in the oral cavity is a complex phenomenon, i.e., related to disintegration and dissolution of restorative materials in the oral cavity. Consumption of acidic food, fruit juices, and soft drinks can result in decrease in microhardness and bad esthetic appearance.

Materials and methods

Twenty-four disk-shaped specimens (10 mm in diameter and 2 mm thickness) were made from each nanohybrid composite, giomer, and microhybrid composite. The specimens were dipped in Appy fizz, Nimbooz, and Thumbs Up for 50 seconds and washed with saline. This cycle was continued for six times each day. Such hardness test was carried out in regular intervals, that is, 7, 14, and 21 days.

Results

There was reduction in hardness after 7 and 14 days but no significant difference (p > 0.05). There was significant difference after 21 days of experimental models for giomer, ceramic, and spectra (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The microhardness of materials was reduced after 7 and 14 days, but significant difference was seen after 21 days.

How to cite this article

Somayaji SK, Amalan A, Ginjupalli K. Effect of Different Acidic Beverages on Microhardness of Nanohybrid Composite, Giomer, and Microhybrid Composite. World J Dent 2016;7(3):126-128.
Ocular Injuries in Association with Middle Third Facial Injuries in Developing Countries: A Prospective Study
Authors: Mohanavalli S , Suma E , Senthamarai G , Vijayabala G Sree
Published: November 2016

Introduction

The middle third of the face is the most common site of injury and is frequently complicated by associated ocular injuries. It may be simple laceration, ecchymosis, circumorbital edema, or severe as globe injury or injury to the optic nerve and vision loss. Even severe injury like internal bleeding causes increased intraocular pressure and damages the optic nerve; if managed earlier, it could prevent further damage and dysfunction of the eye. Midfacial fractures associated with ocular injuries should have an early ophthalmological examination to detect ocular injuries. Little is known about the current epidemiology of midface fractures and associated ocular injuries in Tamil Nadu, the state of India. The aim was to study the etiology and pattern of middle third fracture and associated ocular injuries.

Materials and methods

This prospective study on midface fractures was carried out in the Department of Dentistry to analyze etiology, incidence, and patterns of midface fractures and associated ocular injuries. A total of 201 patients who reported with the history of midface injuries were included in the study. These patients were examined clinically and routine radiographs and computerized tomography magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were taken to confirm the diagnosis. All the patients sustaining confirmed middle third fractures with or without eye signs were referred to an ophthalmology department for the evaluation and management of associated ophthalmic injury. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 16.0 was used for data analysis. The outcome of the study was measured using percentages, mean, standard deviation, and test of proportion as appropriate.

Results

Traffic accident was the major cause of injury, mainly by motorized two wheelers (MTWs). Males in the 21 to 40 age group were common victims. Zygomatic complex fracture was the most common fracture type. Subconjunctival hemorrhage and infraorbital nerve injuries were common clinical findings.

Conclusion

Midthird facial injury cases should have an early ophthalmological examination for timely management to prevent dysfunction of the eye.

How to cite this article

Mohanavalli S, Suma E, Senthamarai G, Vijayabala GS. Ocular Injuries in Association with Middle Third Facial Injuries in Developing Countries: A Prospective Study. World J Dent 2016;7(3):135-140.
Endodontic Management of a Maxillary Lateral Incisor fused with Supernumerary Tooth using Spiral Computed Tomography as Diagnostic Aid
Authors: Dua Deepti , Dua Ankur
Published: November 2016

Fusion is a developmental anomaly in tooth morphology, which may be due to either union of two separate tooth buds or partial splitting of a single tooth bud. A thorough understanding of root canal anatomy is an essential prerequisite for a successful endodontic treatment. This case report describes successful endodontic management of a maxillary left lateral incisor fused with a supernumerary tooth using spiral computed tomography (SCT) as a diagnostic aid. A patient reported with a painless swelling in the maxillary anterior region associated with a fused maxillary lateral incisor. Spiral CT was performed to better understand the complex root canal anatomy. Endodontic treatment was done using methyl trioxide aggregate (MTA) as apical plug and obturation by thermoplasticized gutta-percha. The tooth was completely asymptomatic at 1-year follow-up showing signs of healing. The present case report emphasizes on the importance of three-dimensional (3D) imaging techniques, such as SCT in cases of developmental anomalies having complicated root canal morphology for successful endodontic therapy.

How to cite this article

Dua D, Dua A, Patil AC. Endodontic Management of a Maxillary Lateral Incisor fused with Supernumerary Tooth using Spiral Computed Tomography as Diagnostic Aid. World J Dent 2016;7(4):199-202.
Chemical characterization of fine particular matter in Changzhou, China and source apportionment with offline aerosol mass spectrometry
Authors: Ye Zhaolian , Liu Jiashu , Gu Aijun , Feng Feifei , Liu Yuhai , Bi Chenglu , Xu Jianzhong , Li Ling , Chen Hui , Chen Yanfang , Dai Liang , Zhou Quanfa , Ge Xinlei
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Knowledge on aerosol chemistry in densely populated regions is critical for reduction of air pollution, while such studies haven't been conducted in Changzhou, an important manufacturing base and polluted city in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), China. This work, for the first time, performed a thorough chemical characterization on the fine particular matter (PM2.5) samples, collected during July 2015 to April 2016 across four seasons in Changzhou city. A suite of analytical techniques were employed to characterize organic carbon / elemental carbon (OC / EC), water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC), water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIIs), trace elements, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM2.5; in particular, an Aerodyne soot particle aerosol mass spectrometer (SP-AMS) was deployed to probe the chemical properties of water-soluble organic aerosols (WSOA). The average PM2.5 concentrations were found to be 108.3 μg m−3, and all identified species were able to reconstruct ~ 80 % of the PM2.5 mass. The WSIIs occupied about half of the PM2.5 mass (~ 52.1 %), with SO42−, NO3− and NH4+ as the major ions. On average, nitrate concentrations dominated over sulfate (mass ratio of 1.21), indicating influences from traffic emissions. OC and EC correlated well with each other and the highest OC / EC ratio (5.16) occurred in winter, suggesting complex OC sources likely including both secondarily formed and primarily emitted OA. Concentrations of eight trace elements (Mn, Zn, Al, B, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb) can contribute up to 6.0 % of PM2.5 during winter. PAHs concentrations were also high in winter (140.25 ng m−3), which were predominated by median/high molecular weight PAHs with 5- and 6-rings. The organic matter including both water-soluble and water-insoluble species occupied ~ 20 % PM2.5 mass. SP-AMS determined that the WSOA had an average atomic oxygen-to-carbon (O / C), hydrogen-to-carbon (H / C), nitrogen-to-carbon (N / C) and organic matter-to-organic carbon (OM / OC) ratios of 0.36, 1.54, 0.11, and 1.74, respectively. Source apportionment of WSOA further identified two secondary OA (SOA) factors (a less oxidized and a more oxidized OA) and two primary OA (POA) factors (a nitrogen enriched hydrocarbon-like traffic OA and a cooking-related OA). On average, the POA contribution overweighed SOA (55 % vs. 45 %), indicating the important role of local anthropogenic emissions to the aerosol pollution in Changzhou. Our measurement also shows the abundance of organic nitrogen species in WSOA, and the source analyses suggest these species likely associated with traffic emissions, which warrants more investigations on PM samples from other locations.
Quantifying the missing link between forest albedo and productivity in the
boreal zone
Authors: Hovi Aarne , Liang Jingjing , Korhonen Lauri , Kobayashi Hideki , Rautiainen Miina
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Albedo and fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FAPAR) determine the shortwave radiation balance and productivity of forests. Currently, the physical link between forest albedo and productivity is poorly understood, yet it is crucial for designing optimal forest management strategies for mitigating climate change. We investigated the relationships between boreal forest structure, albedo and FAPAR using a radiative transfer model called Forest Reflectance and Transmittance model FRT and extensive forest inventory data sets ranging from southern boreal forests to the northern tree line in Finland and Alaska (N  =  1086 plots). The forests in the study areas vary widely in structure, species composition, and human interference, from intensively managed in Finland to natural growth in Alaska. We show that FAPAR of tree canopies (FAPARCAN) and albedo are tightly linked in boreal coniferous forests, but the relationship is weaker if the forest has broadleaved admixture, or if canopies have low leaf area and the composition of forest floor varies. Furthermore, the functional shape of the relationship between albedo and FAPARCAN depends on the angular distribution of incoming solar irradiance. We also show that forest floor can contribute to over 50 % of albedo or total ecosystem FAPAR. Based on our simulations, forest albedos can vary notably across the biome. Because of larger proportions of broadleaved trees, the studied plots in Alaska had higher albedo (0.141–0.184) than those in Finland (0.136–0.171) even though the albedo of pure coniferous forests was lower in Alaska. Our results reveal that variation in solar angle will need to be accounted for when evaluating climate effects of forest management in different latitudes. Furthermore, increasing the proportion of broadleaved trees in coniferous forests is the most important means of maximizing albedo without compromising productivity: based on our findings the potential of controlling forest density (i.e., basal area) to increase albedo may be limited compared to the effect of favoring broadleaved species.
Simulating natural carbon sequestration in the Southern Ocean: on uncertainties associated with eddy parameterizations and iron deposition
Authors: Dietze Heiner , Getzlaff Julia , Löptien Ulrike
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The Southern Ocean is a major sink for anthropogenic carbon. Yet, there is no quantitative consensus about how this sink will change when surface winds increase (as they are anticipated to do). Among the tools employed to quantify carbon uptake are global coupled ocean-circulation biogeochemical models. Because of computational limitations these models still fail to resolve potentially-important spatial scales. Instead, processes on these scales are parameterized. There is concern that deficiencies in these so-called eddy-parameterizations might imprint wrong sensitivities of projected oceanic carbon uptake. Here, we compare natural carbon uptake in the Southern Ocean simulated with contemporary eddy-parameterizations. We find that very differing parameterizations yield surprisingly similar oceanic carbon in response to strengthening winds. In contrast, we find (in an additional simulation) that the carbon uptake does differ substantially when the supply of bioavailable iron is altered within its envelope of uncertainty. We conclude that a more comprehensive understanding of bioavailable iron dynamics will substantially reduce the uncertainty of model-based projections of oceanic carbon uptake.
Linking catchment hydrology and ocean circulation in Late
Holocene southernmost Africa
Authors: Hahn Annette , Schefuß Enno , Andó Sergio , Cawthraw Hayley C. , Frenzel Peter , Kugel Martin , Meschner Stephanie , Mollenhauer Gesine , Zabel Matthias
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Recent studies of the South African climatic system revealed a highly complex interplay of forcing factors on precipitation regimes. This includes the influence of the tropical easterlies, the strength of the Southern Hemispheric Westerlies as well as sea surface temperatures along the coast of the subcontinent. This study of a sediment core at the terrestrial-marine interface spanning a time interval of ~ 4 ka provides insights on the highly dynamic climatic system in southernmost South Africa. Several organic proxies sensitive to changes in climatic parameters like the distribution and isotopic composition of plant-wax lipids as well as indicators for sea surface temperatures and soil input give information on climatic changes during the investigated time period. Moreover, the micropaleontology, mineralogical and elemental composition of the sediments reflects the variability of the terrigenous input to the core site. The combination of downcore sediment signatures and a catchment-wide provenance study indicate that the Little Ice Age was characterized by relatively warm sea surface temperatures in Mossel Bay and arid climatic conditions favorable to torrential flood events sourced in the Gouritz headlands. In contrast, the so-called Medieval Climate Anomaly is expressed by humid conditions in the Gouritz River catchment with lower, but highly variable sea surface temperatures in the Mossel Bay area. The coincidence between humid climatic conditions and cooler sea surface temperatures has been attributed to a strengthened and more southerly anticyclonic circulation. In this climatic setting strong tropical easterlies supply Indian Ocean moisture to South Africa and at the same time Agulhas Bank upwelling pulses become more common due to an increase in Agulhas Current transport as well as alongshore southeasterly winds. These processes resemble the modern day oceanography in summer and can be conceptualized in a regional climate model.
Solar-forced diurnal regulation of cave drip rates via phreatophyte evapotranspiration
Authors: Coleborn Katie , Rau Gabriel C. , Cuthbert Mark O. , Baker Andy , Navarre Owen
Published: November 2016

Abstract. We present results of a detailed study of drip rate variations at 12 drip discharge sites in Glory Hole Cave, New South Wales, Australia. Our novel time series analysis, using the wavelet synchrosqueezed transform, reveals pronounced oscillations at daily and sub-daily frequencies occurring in 8 out of the 12 monitored sites. These oscillations were not spatially or temporally homogenous, with different drip sites exhibiting such behaviour at different times of year in different parts of the cave. We test several hypotheses for the cause of the oscillations, including variations in pressure gradients between karst and cave due to cave breathing effects or atmospheric and earth tides, variations in hydraulic conductivity due to changes in viscosity of water with daily temperature oscillations, and solar-driven daily cycles of vegetative (phreatophytic) transpiration. We conclude that the only hypothesis consistent with the data and hydrologic theory is that daily oscillations are caused by solar-driven pumping by phreatophytic trees which are abundant at the site. The daily oscillations are not continuous and occur sporadically in short bursts (2–14 days) throughout the year due to non-linear modification of the solar signal via complex karst architecture. This is the first indirect observation leading to the hypothesis of tree water use in cave drip water. It has important implications for karst hydrology in regards to developing a new protocol to determine the relative importance of trends in drip rate, such as diurnal oscillations, and how these trends change over timescales of weeks to years. This information can also be used to infer karst architecture. This study demonstrates the importance of vegetation on recharge dynamics, information that will inform both process-based karst models and empirical estimation approaches. Our findings support a growing body of research exploring the impact of trees on speleothem paleoclimate proxies.
Time-clustering of wave storms in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Besio Giovanni , Briganti Riccardo , Romano Alessandro , Mentaschi Lorenzo , De Girolamo Paolo
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In this contribution we identify storm time-clustering in the Mediterranean Sea through the analysis of the spatial distribution of the Allan Factor. This parameter is evaluated from long time series of wave height provided by means of oceanographic buoy measurements and hindcast re-analysis spanning in the period 1979–2014 and characterized by a horizontal resolution of about 0.1 degree in longitude and latitude and a temporal sampling of one hour (Mentaschi et a., 2015). Results reveal clustering mainly for two distinct ranges of time scales. The first range of time scales (12 hrs to 50 days) is associated to sequences of storms generated by the persistence of the same meteorological system. The second range, associated to timescales beteween 50 and 100 days, reveals seasonal fluctuations. Transitional regimes are present at some locations in the basin. The spatial distribution of the Allan Factor reveals that the clustering at smaller time scales is present in the North-West of the Mediterranean, while clustering at larger scales is observed in the whole basin. This analysis is believed to be important to assess the local increased flood and coastal erosion risks due to storm clustering.