bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Modern Approach to Virtual Laboratory Workshop
Authors: Gubsky Dmitry S. , Zemlyakov Viacheslav V. , Mamay Ivan V.
Published: March 2014

The method of computer simulation of microwave measurement units and special laboratory workshop for engineersâ?? education are described. Simulated laboratory has a module structure. The basis for constructing a model of the specific work is a concept of the abstract â??deviceâ? with front panel view and manipulation principles identical to those of the real units.
Application of Remote Sensing in Training Geospatial Cognitive Abilities of Secondary Students
Authors: Wu Li , Liu H. Y. , Peng P.
Published: March 2014

The formation and development of geospatial cognitive abilities are an important aspect of training geographic literacy of secondary students, because these abilities have vital significance for solving their own problems related to geography and its study. However, training geospatial cognitive abilities is currently quite weak in our secondary school's geography curriculum. Many secondary students now have low geospatial cognitive abilities. Remote sensing has a lot of advantages over other training in geospatial cognitive abilities. Therefore, how to use remote sensing in training geospatial cognitive abilities of secondary students should be given necessary importance. Based on the partition of essential factors of geospatial cognitive abilities, this study analyzed some advantages and summarized five teaching strategies integrating remote sensing in training geospatial cognitive abilities in our secondary education, which can provide applicable opinions and suggestions for developing geospatial cognitive abilities of secondary students.
Effects of Ultraviolet-B Radiation on Woundfin Embryos and Larvae with Application to Conservation Propagation
Authors: Holmquist Luke M. , Ray Andrew M. , Bancroft Betsy A. , Pinkham Nick , Webb Molly A. H.
Published: March 2014

Endangered woundfin Plagopterus argentissimus embryos and larvae were exposed to artificial ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation to directly examine the effects on mortality. The experiment was part of a project assisting the Virgin River Resource Management and Recovery Program's efforts to increase hatchery production of this endangered fish. The UV-B radiation used in this experiment was administered in treatments of 0.060, 0.030, and 0.015 mW/cm2 to simulate 100, 50, and 25% of the ambient irradiance levels documented in outdoor tanks and living streams at Bubbling Ponds State Fish Hatchery, in Arizona. Embryos and larvae were exposed for 14.5 h followed by 9.5 h of darkness, in correspondence with the daylight hours at Bubbling Ponds. No embryos survived UV-B treatments; mortality among control (UV-B–free) treatments varied (5–100%) among females, indicating that there may be important parental effects that influence embryo mortality. Larval mortality was also 100% for individuals exposed to any of the three UV-B treatments. In contrast to embryo trials, larval mortality in UV-B–free treatments approached 20% for 2-d-old larvae. These experiments provide evidence that woundfin embryos and larvae are sensitive to even low levels of UV-B when exposed for 14.5 h. Susceptibility of larvae to UV-B also appears to be a function of age at exposure, with older larvae exhibiting significantly lower levels of mortality during the initial days of exposure. Experiments with UV-B mitigation strategies indicated that shade cloth, Aquashade®, and elevated dissolved organic carbon can aid in the attenuation of UV-B, and these strategies may assist hatchery managers in implementing UV-B mitigation measures during periods when woundfin are most susceptible.
Prevalence and Molecular Epidemiology of Human Papillomavirus Infection in Italian Women with Cervical Cytological Abnormalities
Authors: Meloni Angelo , Pilia Roberta , Campagna Marcello , Usai Antonella , Masia Giuseppina , Caredda Valeria , Coppola Rosa Cristina
Published: March 2014

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection and high-risk HPV types are a necessary cause for the development of cervical cancer. The present study investigated the HPV-type specific prevalence in 650 women, aged 15-76 years, with cytological abnormalities and the association between HPV infection and cervical disease in a subset of 160 women for whom cytological results for Pap-Test were available, during the period 2008-2011 in Cagliari (Southern Italy).

Design and Methods

HPV-DNA extraction was performed by lysis and digestion with proteinase K and it was typed by using the INNOLiPA HPV Genotyping Assay.

Results

Overall the HPV prevalence was 52.6%; high-risk genotypes were found in 68.9% of women and multiple-type infection in 36.1% of HPV-positive women. The commonest types were HPV-52 (23.4%), HPV-53 (15.7%), HPV-16 (15.4%) and HPV-6 (12.4%). Among the women with cytological diagnosis, any-type of HPV DNA was found in 49.4% of the samples and out of these 93.7% were high-risk genotypes. Genotype HPV 53 was the commonest type among women affected by ASCUS lesions (21.4%), genotype 52 in positive L-SIL cases (22.5%), genotype 16 H-SIL (27.3%).

Conclusions

This study confirmed the high prevalence of HPV infection and high-risk genotypes among women with cervical abnormalities while, unlike previously published data, genotype HPV-52 was the most common type in our series. These data may contribute to increase the knowledge of HPV epidemiology and designing adequate vaccination strategies.
Shades of Grey: The Need for a Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Research Investigating Alcohol and Ageing
Authors: Wilkinson Celia , Dare Julie
Published: March 2014

This paper calls for an increase in multi-disciplinary research on the issue of alcohol and ageing, to ensure public health interventions reflect the complex and diverse needs of older drinkers. Older people (65+ years) represent a unique segment of the population; compared to adolescents and younger people, they are more likely to have a range of co-morbid conditions and be taking prescribed medication, and are more physiologically vulnerable to the effects of alcohol. This suggests that from a public health perspective, alcohol use by older people is problematic. However, as with younger people, alcohol use is closely associated with socialisation and social engagement. While social engagement is important at all stages of life, it is particularly critical as people age, when many of the formal social roles which provide a catalyst for social integration shift or are lost. Currently, however, there is little evidence of an integrated public health response to the complex issue of alcohol and ageing. That is, what is needed is a concurrent acknowledgement of the health problems that may be associated with contraindicated alcohol use, versus the potential health benefits that can accrue from social drinking. This will require a holistic rather than reductionist approach that integrates biomedical and social science insights to develop a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the implications of alcohol use amongst diverse populations of older people.
The mineral industry of Yukon Territory and southwestern district of Mackenzie 1967
Authors: Findlay D C
Published: March 2014

This report summarizes developments in the mineral industry of Yukon Territory and southwestern District of Mackenzie, during 1967. During the period 1964- 1966 the value of Yukon mineral production declined from $15.2 million to $11.3 million, but this trend was
reversed in 1967 when the value of production increased to about $15.5 million (preliminary figure) . This increase was mainly due to the introduction of two new producing mines into the economy - the Little Chief Mine of New Imperial Mines Limited near Whitehorse and the Clinton Mine of Cassiar
Asbestos Corporation Limited west of Dawson. Additional revenue was also generated due to higher prices for silver realized by United Keno Hill Mines Limited from its silver-lead-zinc operations a t Elsa. In lode exploration the Yukon recorded an active year in 1967. Exploration activity was
distributed more widely throughout the Territory rather than being heavily concentrated in the Anvil -Vangorda district as was the case in 1965 and 1966. However, the Anvil district continued to receive attention , in part spurred by the announcement early in the year that Anvil Mining Corporation
Limited would br ing its large - tonnage Faro lead- zinc deposit into production by the fall of 1969. This company began extensive pre- production work on the Faro deposit in 1967 . Placer gold production decreased from 52,953 crude ounces in 1966 to about 11,837 crude ounces in 1967. This decrease
was entirely due to the termination of the Yukon Consolidated Gold Corporation's Klondike dredging operations in the fall of 1966. Total recorded production from smaller company operations and from individual miners was slightly greater in 1967 (11,345 crude ounces) than in 1966 (11,050 crude
ounces).
Geology of the Striding-Athabasca mylonite zone, northern Saskatchewan and southeastern District of Mackenzie, Northwest Territories
Authors: Hanmer S
Published: March 2014

Striding-Athabasca mylonite zone, northern Saskatchewan and southeastern District of Mackenzie, N.W.T., occupies a 400 km long segment of the Snowbird tectonic zone. It is a linked system of Archean granulite facies mylonite belts (East Athabasca mylonite
triangle and Striding mylonite belt), which trace a sinuous course along a train of lozenges of stiff Middle Archean crust.

Middle Archean mafic and tonalitic rocks may represent part of a plutonic arc emplaced into a sedimentary accretionary wedge above a subduction zone during the early construction of the western Churchill continent, and affected by contemporaneous granulite facies mylonitization. By the Late Archean,
ca. 2.62-2.60 Ga, this segment of the Snowbird tectonic zone, located well within the interior of the western Churchill continent, was invaded by voluminous mafic and granitic plutons, and subjected to further granulite facies mylonitization. Striding-Athabasca mylonite zone was not the site of an
Early Proterozoic suture or orogen.

The geometry of the Archean/Early Proterozoic boundary in the western Canadian Shield may represent a jagged continental margin, composed of a pair of re-entrants defined by rifted and transform segments, inherited from Early Proterozoic break-up. Rifting may have been controlled by the Archean
structure of the interior of the western Churchill continent, i.e., the Striding-Athabasca mylonite zone, with its associated Middle Archean lozenges, and Late Archean mylonites of the Great Slave Lake shear zone. The geometry of this jagged margin appears to have strongly influenced the Early
Proterozoic tectonic evolution of the edge of the western Canadian Shield.
Evaluating research recruitment strategies to improve response rates amongst South African nurses
Authors: Khamisa Natasha , Peltzer Karl , Ilic Dragan , Oldenburg Brian
Published: March 2014

Orientation: Nurse recruitment to and participation in empirical research is increasingly important in understanding and improving nursing practice. However, the low participation and recruitment rate amongst nurses is not well understood.Research purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate three research recruitment methods for their impact on recruitment and participation rates amongst South African nurses.Motivation for the study: A limited number of studies exist that formally evaluates different recruitment strategies to improve participation in research amongst nurses within developing contexts, especially South Africa.Research approach, design and method: Participants were recruited using three different methods. Of the 250 nurses randomly selected and invited to participate in a cross-sectional survey, 201 agreed and 162 (81%) returned the questionnaires.Main findings: Nursing management participation in the recruitment and data collection process produces more favourable response rates. Reminders and the use of shorter questionnaires also aid higher response rates.Practical/managerial implications: Reminders as well as face-to-face recruitment strategies (especially by a familiar person) successfully improved participation rates amongst South African nurses in this study.Contribution/value-add: This study identifies some strategies that could be used more widely to increase the recruitment and participation of South African nurses in research whilst potentially improving their work situation.
Point-of-Decision Signs and Stair Use in a University Worksite Setting: General versus Specific Messages
Authors: Eckhardt Mary R. , Kerr Jacqueline , Taylor Wendell C.
Published: March 2014

Purpose.

This study tested the effectiveness of two point-of-decision signs to increase stair use and investigated message content by comparing signs with general and specific messages.

Design.

This study used a quasi-experimental time series design, including a 2-week baseline period: 2 weeks with a general message and 2 weeks with a specific message.

Setting.

The signs were placed in an eight-story university building.

Subjects.

The subjects comprised all adults entering the building. During the study, 2997 observations of stair/elevator choice were made.

Intervention.

A stair-prompt sign with a general message and a sign with a specific message served as the interventions.

Measures.

Observers measured stair/elevator choice, demographics, and traffic volume.

Analysis.

Logistic regression analyses were employed, adjusting for covariates.

Results.

The specific sign intervention showed significantly increased odds of stair use compared to baseline (odds ratio [OR] = 2.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.46–2.84). The odds of stair use were also significantly greater with the specific sign than the general sign (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.13–2.20).

Conclusion.

Only the specific sign significantly increased stair use. The results indicate that a specific message may be more effective at promoting stair use.
Using a Scripted Data Entry Process to Transfer Legacy Immunization Data While Transitioning Between Electronic Medical Record Systems
Authors: Hsiao A. , Fenick A. , Michel J.
Published: March 2014

Background: Transitioning between Electronic Medical Records (EMR) can result in patient data being stranded in legacy systems with subsequent failure to provide appropriate patient care. Manual chart abstraction is labor intensive, error-prone, and difficult to institute for immunizations on a systems level in a timely fashion.

Objectives: We sought to transfer immunization data from two of our health system’s soon to be replaced EMRs to the future EMR using a single process instead of separate interfaces for each facility.

Methods: We used scripted data entry, a process where a computer automates manual data entry, to insert data into the future EMR. Using the Center for Disease Control’s CVX immunization codes we developed a bridge between immunization identifiers within our system’s EMRs. We performed a two-step process evaluation of the data transfer using automated data comparison and manual chart review.

Results: We completed the data migration from two facilities in 16.8 hours with no data loss or corruption. We successfully populated the future EMR with 99.16% of our legacy immunization data – 500,906 records – just prior to our EMR transition date. A subset of immunizations, first recognized during clinical care, had not originally been extracted from the legacy systems. Once identified, this data – 1,695 records – was migrated using the same process with minimal additional effort.

Conclusions: Scripted data entry for immunizations is more accurate than published estimates for manual data entry and we completed our data transfer in 1.2% of the total time we predicted for manual data entry. Performing this process before EMR conversion helped identify obstacles to data migration. Drawing upon this work, we will reuse this process for other healthcare facilities in our health system as they transition to the future EMR.

Citation: Michel J, Hsiao A, Fenick A. Using a scripted data entry process to transfer legacy immunization data while transitioning between electronic medical record systems. Appl Clin Inf 2014; 5: 284–298 http://dx.doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2013-11-RA-0096
Role of Local Hemostatic Agents in Epistaxis
Authors: Mattoo Owais , Muzaffar Rahil , Jallu Aleena , Hussain Tahir
Published: March 2014

Background

Epistaxis is the commonest otorhinolaryngological emergency affecting up to 60% of the population in their lifetime, with 6% requiring medical attention.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted to describe the etiological profile and treatment outcome of epistaxis at Postgraduate Department of ENT and HNS in Government Medical College, Srinagar, India. This was a prospective study of the cases of epistaxis managed at Postgraduate Department of ENT and HNS in Government Medical College, Srinagar, from December 2011 to December 2012. Till date, the data regarding the management of epistaxis in our setting was not available. The purpose was to evaluate the clinical and management options for epistaxis in our settings. The clinical significance of this study can be gauged from the fact that most common ENT emergency, the epistaxis is usually mismanaged at the peripheral centres and this may serve as a reference for proper management options of epistaxis.

Results

A total of 100 patients with epistaxis were studied. Males were affected twice more than the females (2.6:1). Their mean age was 48.63 years (range 4 to 82 years). The modal age group was 41 to 50 years. The commonest cause of epistaxis was Idiopathic (33%) followed by trauma (21%) and hypertension (18%). Anterior nasal bleeding was noted in majority of the patients (89%). Nonsurgical measures, such as light packing with cotton gauze soaked with local hemostatic (hemocoagulase) and antiseptic/antibiotic (36%), silver nitrate cauterization (16%) and anterior nasal packing (15%) and observation alone (11%) were the main intervention methods in 78% of cases. Surgical measures mainly intranasal tumor resection was carried out in 3% of cases.

Conclusion

The most common etiological factor for epistaxis is idiopathic in our setting. Most cases were successfully managed with conservative (light packing with cotton gauze soaked with local hemostatic) treatment alone and surgical intervention with its potential complications may not be necessary in most cases and should be the last resort.

How to cite this article

Muzaffar R, Mattoo O, Jallu A, Hussain T. Role of Local Hemostatic Agents in Epistaxis. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2013;6(3):113-117.
Frontal Mucocele following Contralateral Orbitopterional Craniotomy for Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma: A Short Report
Authors: Mohindra Satyawati , Gupta Bhumika , Mohindra Sandeep , Gupta Karan
Published: March 2014

Unilateral skull base craniotomy provides reasonable exposure for orbital tumors, especially involving optic nerve sheath lesions. Such a surgical approach requires disturbance of sanctity of rhinological spaces, inviting unusual complications. The authors report contralateral mucocele formation 4 years after such a craniotomy performed for optic nerve sheath meningioma.

How to cite this article

Mohindra S, Mohindra S, Gupta B, Gupta K. Frontal Mucocele following Contralateral Orbitopterional Craniotomy for Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma: A Short Report. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2013;6(3):121-123.
Large Frontoethmoidal Mucocele: Treatment and Review
Authors: Gupta Manish , Chauhan Bhushan
Published: March 2014

Paranasal sinus mucoceles are slowly expanding cystic lesions leading to sinus expansion, bony erosion and ultimately extension into the orbit and cranial cavity. Mucoceles account for 4 to 8.5% of expanding orbital lesions, with frontal and ethmoidal sinuses as the most common sites. We describe a large frontoethmoidal mucocele that presented with diplopia, headache and displacement of globe and was successfully managed by endoscopic sinus surgery.

How to cite this article

Gupta M, Chauhan B, Gupta M. Large Frontoethmoidal Mucocele: Treatment and Review. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2013;6(3):126-128.
A Clinical Study to assess the Efficacy of Commonly Available Denture Adhesive Materials in Mandibular Dentures
Authors: Yadav Harish , Phukela Sumit Singh
Published: March 2014

Retention in mandibular dentures has always been a challenge for the treating dentist. Denture adhesives are known to improve the adhesive bond between the denture and the underlying tissues. However, denture adhesives still remain unexplored and not much is known about the efficacy of these materials in mandibular dentures especially in patients with poor foundations. The present study was carried out to compare the efficacy of different commercially available denture adhesives in relation to their retentive ability in patients with good well formed mandibular ridges and in patients with resorbed and flat mandibular ridges. Seventy edentulous patients, age range between 50 to 70 years, were selected. The patients were divided into 2 groups; group 1 comprised of 35 patients with good well formed mandibular ridges and group 2 consisted of 35 patients having low well rounded mandibular ridges. The adhesion and cohesion that developed between the dentures and the underlying tissues when the various materials were interposed between them was evaluated with the help of a test apparatus in newtons. Mean value of retention in denture without adhesive was 9.93 N and 24.53 N in resorbed and well formed ridges respectively. Use of denture adhesive materials led to a higher value of retention as opposed to when the dentures were used without adhesives. This was true for patients with good well formed mandibular ridges as well as for patients with poor foundations. Among the various denture adhesive powders tested, Fittydent showed better results, i.e. 29.56 and 33.05 in resorbed and well-formed ridges respectively as opposed to fixon which showed values of 16.47 and 27.70 respectively.

How to cite this article

Malhotra P, Yadav B, Yadav H, Phukela SS. A Clinical Study to assess the Efficacy of Commonly Available Denture Adhesive Materials in Mandibular Dentures. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2013;3(4):125-130.
Effect of Air Abrasion on the Marginal Configuration of Titanium Crowns after Casting
Authors: Nadiger Ramesh , Yadav Harish
Published: March 2014

The present study was carried out to evaluate and compare the effect of air abrasion on marginal accuracy of titanium crowns after casting. A total of 90 samples were prepared which were divided in three groups of 30 specimens each of shoulder, chamfer and shoulder with bevel marginal configurations respectively. Thirty samples were air abraded using 120 μm particle size of aluminum oxide particle and remaining 30 specimens by 250 μm particle sizes respectively. The length from the reference line and tip of the cast specimens before and after sand blasting was measured with the help of traveling microscope. Same specimens were subjected to trimming for removal of alpha case layer for a standardized time, speed and pressure. The basic data of marginal discrepancy due to sand blasting and alpha case removal for each marginal configuration were evaluated and compared with data for the control group using student ‘t’ test and ANOVA. The smaller the margin angle, the greater was the loss of alloy after air abrasion (shoulder with bevel > chamfer > shoulder). Particle size of the abrasive also influenced the vertical marginal loss, as the particle size increased from 120 to 250 μm, marginal loss also increased. Finishing of casting margins after sandblasting also induced vertical marginal loss.

How to cite this article

Yadav B, Malhotra P, Nadiger R, Yadav H. Effect of Air Abrasion on the Marginal Configuration of Titanium Crowns after Casting. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2013;3(4):131-135.
Prosthodontic and Periodontal Status and Needs in a Selected Population of Urban Poor in the Philippines: A Pilot Study
Authors: Torresyap Maria
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To determine the prosthodontic and periodontal status and needs in a group of adults from a poor urban community in the Philippines

Materials and methods

A sample consisting of 401 poor urban adults in a district in the Philippines was assessed using the WHO oral health assessment form. The examinations were conducted in natural light with a mouth mirror, community periodontal index (CPI) probe and an explorer with the subject seated in a regular chair. The following prosthodontics/malocclusion traits were assessed; presence or absence of fixed and or removable appliances, treatment needs, presence of spacing, crowding in the incisal segments, overjet, open bite and posterior cross bite. The periodontal condition was assessed by means of the community periodontal index of treatment needs (CPITN) in relation to selected index teeth: The statistical analysis was carried out using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) (version 21.0). One-way ANOVA was used to compare the means and chi-square and Fisher's exact test was used to compare the proportions. The significance level was set at α = 0.05.

Results

The majority of adult Filipinos had either calculus (84.8%) or shallow probing depths (11%). Only 1.7% had probing depths equal to or greater than 6 mm. Forty four (10.9%) subjects were wearing complete dentures in the maxilla and mandible and 11.7% had removable partial dentures in the maxilla while only 1.2% was wearing partials in the mandible. There was no statistically significant difference between the genders with regard to prosthetic status. Overall, 70.3 and 88.5% required prosthesis in the maxilla and mandible respectively. However, more subjects needed full prosthesis in the maxilla (25.9%) compared to mandible (16.5%).

Conclusion

The majority of the sampled Filipino adults had significant unmet periodontal (high calculus rates and gingivitis) and prosthodontics needs.

How to cite this article

Torresyap V, Hoover J, Torresyap M, Karunanayake C. Prosthodontic and Periodontal Status and Needs in a Selected Population of Urban Poor in the Philippines: A Pilot Study. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2013;3(4):136-142.
Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Patient with Ocular Defect using Acrylic Stock Eyes
Authors: Philip Jacob Mathew , Venkatakrishnan CJ , Jain Ashish R , Pradeep R , Narasimman M
Published: March 2014

The science and art employed in the profession of dentistry can play an important role in the fabrication of an orbital prosthesis. Anophthalmia (the loss of an eye) not only impairs patient's vision but also create a noticeable deformity on facial appearance and esthetics. The condition is a psychological distress for the patient interrupting his routine work. A prosthodontist as an integral member of the craniofacial rehabilitation team can help raise the spirits and ease the mind of the affected. Mutilation of a portion of a face can cause a heavy impact on the self image and personality of an individual. Acceptable cosmetic results usually can be obtained with a orbital prosthesis. This paper describes prosthetic rehabilitation of a 30-year-old female patient having a left and right ocular defect. A technique to modify stock eye with heat polymerizing polymethyl methacrylate is illustrated. The resultant prosthesis was structurally durable and esthetically acceptable with satisfactory retention. The importance of meticulous treatment planning to tackle the challenges faced in fabricating an ocular prosthesis is explained with the relevant literature.

How to cite this article

Venkatakrishnan CJ, Jain AR, Pradeep R, Philip JM, Narasimman M. Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Patient with Ocular Defect using Acrylic Stock Eyes. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2013;3(4):143-147.
Rejuvenating the Ovate Pontic
Authors: Quazi Mohsin Atibuddin , Gade Jaykumar , Lahoti Krishnakumar , Gade Vandana
Published: March 2014

The restoration of esthetics along with maintenance of healthy gingival tissues is of utmost importance when treating the maxillary anterior region. The resorption of the residual ridge or the irregularities in soft tissue often results in an unfavorable relationship with the pontic, compromising the final esthetic outcome. Various techniques have been developed to overcome this problem, among which tissue conditioning with controlled pressure proves out to be a boon as it is noninvasive. This article presents a case of a 27-year-old male with a missing central incisor with irregular soft tissue contour. A modified ovate pontic was used and the soft tissue was conditioned with a provisional restoration followed by a specialized impression technique aiming to record the conditioned tissue without any displacement. Esthetic emergence profile was achieved in final prosthesis without any adverse consequences on a long-term follow-up.

How to cite this article

Quazi MA, Gade J, Lahoti K, Gade V. Rejuvenating the Ovate Pontic. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2013;3(4):148-152.
Overview of Zirconia: Application as Denture Base Material Substituting for Metal
Authors: Sakurai Kaoru , Takano Tomofumi
Published: March 2014

Zirconia has recently been clinically applied as an ideal tooth color material which acquires superior mechanical properties with high stability without water absorption and dissolution with the progression of the CAD/CAM technique. Dental prosthetic materials have recently evolved to those for metal-free restoration because of the strength, esthetics and environmental protection concerning rare metals. In addition, the increase in demands for metal-free restoration is not limited to fixed prosthesis and dental implants, and it is also directed to application for removable prosthesis. The load-bearing ability of zirconia has been shown to be comparable to that of Co-Cr alloy. Ce-TZP/Al2O3 nanocomposite (NANOZR) with strength, toughness, and thermal stability comparable or superior to those of previously used yttria-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) has been clinically applied, suggesting its applicability as a denture base material substituting for metal.

How to cite this article

Takano T, Sakurai K. Overview of Zirconia: Application as Denture Base Material Substituting for Metal. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2013;3(4):153-156.
Bilateral Atraumatic Compartment Syndrome of the Legs Leading to Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Renal Failure Following Prolonged Kneeling in a Heroin Addict. A Case Report and Review of Relevant Literature
Authors: Biswas Saptarshi , Rao Ramya S , Duckworth April , Kothuru Ravi , Flores Lucio , Abrol Sunil
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Compartment syndrome is defined as a symptom complex caused by increased pressure of tissue fluid in a closed osseofascial compartment which interferes with circulation to the myoneural components of the compartment. Bilateral compartment syndrome of the legs is a rare presentation requiring emergent surgical intervention. In a recent case report (Khan et al 2012) there have been only eight reported cases cited with bilateral compartment syndrome.

Heroin abuse is known to cause compartment syndrome, traumatic and atraumatic rhabdomyolysis. Hypothyroidism can also independently present with rhabdomyolysis.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 22 years old female who presented with bilateral swelling of the legs with associated loss of sensation having spent two days kneeling against the wall following IV heroin abuse. She presented to the emergency department with bilateral swelling of the legs with loss of sensation. She was diagnosed with compartment syndrome requiring emergent bilateral 4 compartment fasciotomy of the lower extremities. Inspite of aggressive fluid resuscitation she developed rhabdomyolysis complicated by acute renal failure requiring dialysis. She made a full recovery with full return of her renal as well as motor and sensory function.

Conclusion

We discuss this interesting case of bilateral compartment syndrome in a heroin abusive patient with history of hypothyroidism complicated by rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure. There have been isolated case reports of bilateral compartment syndrome following prolonged surgery. High index of suspicion, early recognition and therapeutic intervention is the key to good outcome. We discuss the etiopathology and management options of rhabdomyolysis. Treating the comorbities like hypothyroidism is also important for the recovery.

How to cite this article

Biswas S, Rao RS, Duckworth A, Kothuru R, Flores L, Abrol S. Bilateral Atraumatic Compartment Syndrome of the Legs Leading to Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Renal Failure Following Prolonged Kneeling in a Heroin Addict. A Case Report and Review of Relevant Literature. J Trauma Critical Care Emerg Surg 2013;2(3):139-145.
Social Networks and Macroeconomic Stability
Authors: Chen Shu-Heng , Chang Chia-Ling , Wen Ming-Chang
Published: March 2014

In this paper, the effect of the social network on macroeconomic stability is examined using an agent-based, network-based DSGE (dynamic stochastic general equilibrium) model. While the authors’ primitive (first-stage) examination has the network generation mechanism as its main focus, their more in-depth second-stage analysis is based on a few main characteristics of network topologies, such as the degree, clustering coefficient, length, and centrality. Based on their econometric analysis of the simulation results, the authors find that the betweenness centrality contributes to the GDP instability and average path length contributes to the inflation instability. These results are robust under two augmentations, one taking into account nonlinearity and one taking into account the shape of the degree distribution as an additional characteristic. Through these augmentations, the authors find that the effect of network topologies on economic stability can be more intriguing than their baseline model may suggest: in addition to the existence of non-linear or combined effects of network characteristics, the shape of the degree distribution is also found to be significant.
Improved retrieval of direct and diffuse downwelling surface shortwave flux in cloudless atmosphere using dynamic estimates of aerosol content and type: application to the LSA-SAF project
Authors: Ceamanos X. , Carrer D. , Roujean J.-L.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Downwelling surface shortwave flux (DSSF) is a key parameter to address many climate, meteorological, and solar energy issues. Under clear sky conditions, DSSF is particularly sensitive to the variability both in time and space of the aerosol load and chemical composition. Hitherto, this dependence has not been properly addressed by the Satellite Application Facility on Land Surface Analysis (LSA-SAF), which operationally disseminates instantaneous DSSF products over the continents since 2005 considering unchanging aerosol conditions. In the present study, an efficient method is proposed for DSSF retrieval that will overcome the limitations of the current LSA-SAF product. This method referred to as SIRAMix (Surface Incident Radiation estimation using Aerosol Mixtures) is based on an accurate physical parameterization that is coupled with a radiative transfer-based look up table of aerosol properties. SIRAMix considers an aerosol layer constituted of several major aerosol species that are conveniently mixed to match real aerosol conditions. This feature of SIRAMix allows it to provide not only accurate estimates of global DSSF but also the direct and diffuse DSSF components, which are crucial radiative terms in many climatological applications. The implementation of SIRAMix is tested in the present article using atmospheric inputs from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). DSSF estimates provided by SIRAMix are compared against instantaneous DSSF measurements taken at several ground stations belonging to several radiation measurement networks. Results show an average root mean square error (RMSE) of 23.6 W m−2, 59.1 W m−2, and 44.9 W m−2 for global, direct, and diffuse DSSF, respectively. These scores decrease the average RMSE obtained for the current LSA-SAF product by 18.6%, which only provides global DSSF for the time being, and, to a lesser extent, for the state of the art in matter of DSSF retrieval (RMSE decrease of 10.9%, 6.5%, and 19.1% for global, direct, and diffuse DSSF with regard to the McClear algorithm). In addition to the retrieval of DSSF, SIRAMix is able to quantify the radiative forcing at the surface due to a given atmospheric component (e.g., gases or aerosols). The main limitation of the proposed approach is its high sensitivity to the quality of the ECMWF aerosol inputs, which is proved to be sufficiently accurate for reanalyses but not for forecasted data. This outcome will be taken into account in the forthcoming implementation of SIRAMix in the operational production chain of the LSA-SAF project.
Magnetostratigraphy of sediments from Lake El'gygytgyn ICDP Site 5011-1: paleomagnetic age constraints for the longest paleoclimate record from the continental Arctic
Authors: Haltia E. M. , Nowaczyk N. R.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Paleomagnetic measurements were performed on sediments drilled from ICDP Site 5011-1 in Lake El'gygytgyn (67°30' N, 172°05' E) located in Far East Russian Arctic. The lake partly fills a crater formed by a meteorite impact 3.58 ± 0.04 Ma ago. Sediments from three parallel cores (5011-1A, 5011-1B and 5011-1C), recovered from the middle part of the lake, yield a total of 355 m of sediment. Sediments are characterized by a variable lithology, where intervals of homogenous and laminated sediments alternate, and mass movement deposits occur frequently along the sediment profile. Mineral magnetic investigation made on sediments enclosed in core catchers suggests that magnetic carrier in these sediments is partly maghemitized Ti-rich pseudo-single domain magnetite. Its detrital origin can be shown by mineral magnetic measurements and SEM-EDS analyses performed on mini-sized cylindrical rock samples, polished rock sections and creek sediments. The intensity of the natural remanent magnetization in the sediments is high with a range from about 1 to 1000 mA m−1. Most of the sediments carry a stable magnetization interpreted as primary depositional remanent magnetization. Characteristic inclination data show alternating intervals of steep positive and negative inclinations that are used to assign magnetic polarity to the lake sediment profile. This is a rather straightforward procedure owing to the mainly high quality of data. The Matuyama/Gauss (M/G) (2.608 Ma) and Brunhes/Matuyama (B/M) (0.780 Ma) reversals were recognized in the sediments. The Mammoth and Kaena reversed subchrons were identified during the Gauss chron, and the Olduvai and Jaramillo normal subchrons as well as the Réunion and Cobb Mountain cryptochrons were identified during the Matuyama chron. Sediments also provide a record of the Olduvai precursor and Intra-Jaramillo geomagnetic excursions. Sediment deposition rate is highest at the base of the sequence laid down in the early Gauss chron, when the deposition rate is approximately 44 cm kyr−1. Sediment deposition decelerates upcore and it is an order of magnitude lower during the Brunhes chron in comparison with the early Gauss chron. Decrease in sediment deposition in the late Pliocene probably relates to atmospheric and oceanic reorganization heralding the onset of Quaternary climate change. The high-quality magnetostratigraphy reconstructed from Lake El'gygytgyn sediments provides 12 first-order tie points to pin down the age of the longest paleoclimate record from the continental Arctic.
Water pH and temperature in Lake Biwa from MBT'/CBT indices during the last 282 000 years
Authors: Ajioka T. , Yamamoto M. , Takemura K. , Hayashida A.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. We generated a 282 000-year record of water pH and temperature in Lake Biwa, central Japan, by analysing the methylation index (MBT') and cyclisation ratio (CBT) of branched tetraethers in sediments from piston and borehole cores to understand the responses of precipitation and air temperature in central Japan to the East Asian monsoon variability on the orbital timescale. Because water pH in Lake Biwa is determined by phosphorus input driven by precipitation, the record of water pH should indicate changes in summer precipitation in central Japan. The estimated pH showed significant periodicity at 19 and 23 ka (precession) and at 41 ka (obliquity). The variation in the estimated pH agrees with variation in the pollen temperature index. This indicates synchronous variation in summer air temperature and precipitation in central Japan, which contradicts the conclusions of previous studies. The variation in estimated pH was also synchronous with the variation of oxygen isotopes in stalagmites in China, suggesting that East Asian summer monsoon precipitation was governed by Northern Hemisphere summer insolation on orbital timescales. However, the estimated winter temperatures were higher during interglacials and lower during glacials, showing an eccentricity cycle. This suggests that the temperature variation reflected winter monsoon variability.
Generalized combination equations for canopy evaporation under dry and wet conditions
Authors: Lhomme J. P. , Montes C.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. The formulation of canopy evaporation is investigated on the basis of the combination equation derived from the Penman equation. All the elementary resistances (surface and boundary layer) within the canopy are taken into account, and the exchange surfaces are assumed to be subject to the same vapour pressure deficit at canopy source height. This development leads to generalized combination equations: one for completely dry canopies and the other for partially wet canopies. These equations are rather complex because they involve the partitioning of available energy within the canopy and between the wet and dry surfaces. By making some assumptions and approximations, they can provide simpler equations similar to the common Penman–Monteith model. One of the basic assumptions of this down-grading process is to consider that the available energy intercepted by the different elements making up the canopy is uniformly distributed and proportional to their respective area. Despite the somewhat unrealistic character of this hypothesis, it allows one to retrieve the simple formulations commonly and successfully used up to now. Numerical simulations are carried out by means of a simple one-dimensional model of the vegetation–atmosphere interaction with two different leaf area profiles. In dry conditions and when the soil surface is moist (low surface resistance), there is a large discrepancy between the generalized formulation and its simpler Penman–Monteith form, but much less when the soil surface is dry. In partially wet conditions, the Penman–Monteith-type equation substantially underestimates the generalized formulation when leaves are evenly distributed, but provides better estimates when leaves are concentrated in the upper half of the canopy.
Hurricane impacts on a pair of coastal forested watersheds: implications of selective hurricane damage to forest structure and streamflow dynamics
Authors: Jayakaran A. D. , Williams T. M. , Ssegane H. , Amatya D. M. , Song B. , Trettin C. C.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Hurricanes are infrequent but influential disruptors of ecosystem processes in the southeastern Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Every southeastern forested wetland has the potential to be struck by a tropical cyclone. We examined the impact of Hurricane Hugo on two paired coastal South Carolina watersheds in terms of streamflow and vegetation dynamics, both before and after the hurricane's passage in 1989. The study objectives were to quantify the magnitude and timing of changes including a reversal in relative streamflow difference between two paired watersheds, and to examine the selective impacts of a hurricane on the vegetative composition of the forest. We related these impacts to their potential contribution to change watershed hydrology through altered evapotranspiration processes. Using over 30 years of monthly rainfall and streamflow data we showed that there was a significant transformation in the hydrologic character of the two watersheds – a transformation that occurred soon after the hurricane's passage. We linked the change in the rainfall–runoff relationship to a catastrophic change in forest vegetation due to selective hurricane damage. While both watersheds were located in the path of the hurricane, extant forest structure varied between the two watersheds as a function of experimental forest management techniques on the treatment watershed. We showed that the primary damage was to older pines, and to some extent larger hardwood trees. We believe that lowered vegetative water use impacted both watersheds with increased outflows on both watersheds due to loss of trees following hurricane impact. However, one watershed was able to recover to pre hurricane levels of evapotranspiration at a quicker rate due to the greater abundance of pine seedlings and saplings in that watershed.
Rethinking Consumer Protection Policy in Financial Markets
Authors: Haim Liran
Published: March 2014

Financial products for consumers usually are characterized by complexity and incomprehensibility. Consumers typically find themselves defeated when attempting to control their financial destiny by understanding these products. This Article explores the economic and social factors that lead to this reality, analyzes its highly negative private and social ramifications and proposes an appropriate policy response. I argue that the current market structure creates a reality in which financial institutions are motivated to produce complex financial products for consumers in order to maximize their profits. This market structure, combined with inadequate policy, induces inefficiency by allocating the comprehension costs of financial products to the consumer.   My thesis is that a fundamental change in risk allocation policy will steer the market toward consumer comprehension of financial products and, therefore, will reduce private and social costs, increase consumer trust in financial institutions and promote social cohesion. I propose a new default liability rule under which financial institutions would be required to introduce internal procedures and mechanisms to ensure product comprehension among all of their consumers. To encourage maximum compliance with my proposal, I suggest implementing a reputation-based incentives method that would require every financial institution branch to publicly post a service quality ranking assigned by the regulator. I also support a trust-oriented licensing policy that would encourage the inclusion of new trustworthy financial institutions in the market and offer the implementation of a new regime for supervising financial product contract terms.