bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Apical Vapor Lock Formation and comparative Evaluation of its Elimination using Three different Techniques: An in vitro Study
Authors: Agarwal Anand , Nanda Zinnie , Deore Rahul B , Rudagi Kavitarani , Baig Mirza Osman , Fareez Md Adil
Published: September 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was (i) to evaluate the formation of air bubbles in the apical region of root canal (apical vapor lock) during syringe irrigation, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and (ii) comparative evaluation of the elimination of an established vapor lock by EndoActivator, ultrasonics, and manual dynamic agitation (MDA), using CBCT.

Materials and methods

A total of 60 extracted human singlerooted teeth were equally divided into three groups of 20 teeth each. The samples were decoronated 17 mm from the apex, cleaned, and shaped to size F4 Protaper using 3% sodium hypochlorite. Samples were irrigated with 3% sodium hypochlorite + cesium chloride radiopaque dye, and preoperative CBCT images were obtained. After formation of apical vapor lock in the scanned teeth, EndoActivator (group I), passive ultrasonic irrigation (group II), and MDA with K-file (group III) were performed and the teeth were again placed in CBCT scanner and results analyzed using the chi-square test.

Results

The apical vapor lock was formed in all the samples. Out of the 20 teeth in each group, the apical vapor lock was eliminated in 18 samples of EndoActivator group (90%), 16 samples of ultrasonic group (80%), while it was eliminated in 10 samples by MDA (50%).

Conclusion

It is concluded that (1) apical vapor lock is consistently formed during endodontic irrigation in closed canal systems and (2) sonic activation performs better than the ultrasonics and MDA in eliminating the apical vapor lock, with statistically significant difference between all the three groups (p < 0.05).

Clinical significance

The results suggest that the apical vapor lock (dead water zone) is consistently formed during endodontic irrigation which impedes irrigant penetration till the working length, thereby leading to inefficient debridement. Hence, to eliminate this vapor lock, techniques, such as sonics or ultrasonics should be used along with the irrigant after shaping and cleaning of the root canal.

How to cite this article

Agarwal A, Deore RB, Rudagi K, Nanda Z, Baig MO, Fareez MA. Evaluation of Apical Vapor Lock Formation and comparative Evaluation of its Elimination using Three different Techniques: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2017;18(9):790-794.
Evaluating Effectiveness of Axiostat Hemostatic Material in achieving Hemostasis and Healing of Extraction Wounds in Patients on Oral Antiplatelet Drugs
Authors: Sharma Saurabh , Kale Tejraj P , Balihallimath Lingaraj J , Motimath Abhishek
Published: September 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Axiostat Hemostatic Dental dressing in achieving hemostasis postextraction and determining its effect on pain and healing of the extraction wound, compared with control, i.e., conventional method of extraction in patients on oral antiplatelet therapy.

Materials and methods

Totally, 40 patients on oral antiplatelet drugs were included in the study and overall 80 extractions were done applying split mouth study design, without altering patient's drug regime. Extraction sites were divided into two groups: Group I received Axiostat Hemostatic Dental Dressing (study site), and group II received conventional method; pressure pack with sterile gauze under biting pressure followed by suturing if required (control site) was used to attain hemostasis.

Results

Extraction sites treated with Axiostat Hemostatic Dressing achieved hemostasis earlier (mean 1 minute 13 seconds) compared with control sites (mean = 14 minutes 1 second), which was also statistically significant (p < 0.001). Postoperative pain was considerably lower and significantly better healing was seen in the study group (p < 0.001) compared with the control.

Conclusion

Axiostat demonstrated to be an effective hemostatic agent that considerably lessens the bleeding time in patients on oral antiplatelet drugs postextraction. In addition, it even offered minimal postoperative pain and improved healing of the extraction wound. On comparing the results of this study with our study on HemCon Dental Dressing, Axiostat Dental Dressing (ADD) is found to be as effective and at par in achieving hemostasis in patients on oral antiplatelet therapy.

Clinical significance

The past few decades have seen an upsurge in use of low-dose aspirin either alone or in combination with other drugs. When these patients require dental/maxillofacial treatment, earlier concept of stopping these medications is associated with increased risk of thromboembolic event. The present study highlights an alternative approach using ADD which aids in quick hemostasis, accentuates healing, and reduce postoperative pain.

How to cite this article

Sharma S, Kale TP, Balihallimath LJ, Motimath A. Evaluating Effectiveness of Axiostat Hemostatic Material in achieving Hemostasis and Healing of Extraction Wounds in Patients on Oral Antiplatelet Drugs. J Contemp Dent Pract 2017;18(9):802-806.
Force Decay Characteristics of commonly used Elastomeric Chains on Exposure to various Mouth Rinses with different Alcohol Concentration: An in vitro Study
Authors: Ramees M Mohamed , Abraham Esther A , Manjusha KK , Nishad A , Ramachandraiah S
Published: September 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to test the effect of varying alcohol concentrations of various commercially available mouthwashes on force decay of elastomeric chains in prestretched and unstretched condition.

Materials and methods

A total of five specimen groups were tested with a total sample size of 180 specimens. A specimen is described as a three-link, short module, clear elastomeric chain (3M Unitek, Ortho Plus, Ortho Organizer). The control and test groups were independently submerged in separate 37°C artificial saliva to simulate the oral conditions. Effects of different solution groups and time (initial, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days) on three different elastomeric chains and force (cN) are analyzed with two-way analysis of variance; pair-wise comparisons are done by t-test.

Results

Higher mean force was recorded initially followed by 24 hours >7 days >14 days >21 days and 28 days respectively. The difference in mean force decay among the different time intervals was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.001). Among the different solutions, higher mean force was recorded in 21.6% alcohol mixture > Listerine 8.38% > Wokadine > alcohol mixture 8.38% > artificial saliva.

Conclusion

In conclusion, alcohol-containing mouth rinses cause an increase in force decay of elastomeric chain over time.

Clinical significance

These mouth rinses are commonly recommended during orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist can know better that the alcohol content of the mouth rinses and the structural and molecular modification results in the decay of elastomeric chain.

How to cite this article

Ramachandraiah S, Sridharan K, Nishad A, Manjusha KK, Abraham EA, Ramees MM. Force Decay Characteristics of commonly used Elastomeric Chains on Exposure to various Mouth Rinses with different Alcohol Concentration: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2017;18(9):812-820.
Prevalence of Dental Caries among Elementary School Girls in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Alshiha Sattam A , Alwayli Hessa M , Hattan Mohammed A , Alfraih Yazeed K , Alamri Abdullah A , Aldossary Mohammed S
Published: September 2017

Aim

To assess caries prevalence among 6- to 9-year-old female children in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and compare between results based on nationality and age levels.

Materials and methods

A total of 17,891 female students from 120 public female elementary schools in Riyadh city were examined according to the World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria. The decayed [dt], missing due to caries [mt], and filled [ft] primary teeth (dmft) index and its components were measured. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Student'st-test, and Chi-squared test were used to determine the significance differences, at α = 0.05.

Results

The overall mean [dt] for all children was 3.89 [standard deviation (SD) 3.38], which increased to 5.0 (SD 3.02) when excluding children without active caries. The mean dmft was 5.69 (SD 4.0). However, excluding children with dmft = 0, the mean dmft was raised to 6.41 (SD 3.65). The caries prevalence was 88.82%. The non-Saudi children showed slightly higher values compared with Saudi children. However, statistically, there were only significant differences in values of [dt] mean, dt = 0, and [ft] mean (p < 0.05). The dmft index was higher for 7- to 8-year-old group (5.81, SD 3.98) followed by the 8- to 9-year-old group (5.79, SD 3.79) and the 6- to 7-year-old group (5.47, SD 4.18). However, there were no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) between 7- to 8-year-old and 8- to 9-year-old children. The 6- to 7-year-old children were statistically different from the 7- to 8 and 8- to 9-year-old children.

Conclusion

The dental caries prevalence among the study population was high, with the majority of children having untreated caries. This highlights the need for initiating deliberate community-based preventive measures for improvement in public health education and services provided.

How to cite this article

Alshiha SA, Alwayli HM, Hattan MA, Alfraih YK, Alamri AA, Aldossary MS. Prevalence of Dental Caries among Elementary School Girls in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Survey. J Oral Health Comm Dent 2017;11(2):29-33.
Congenitally Missing Permanent Mandibular Central Incisors and Maxillary Second Molars in Conjunction with a Supernumerary Mandibular Central Incisor
Authors: Dahiya Vandana , Gupta Neetu , Kadu Abhijeet , Oberoi Sukhvinder , Marya Charu Mohan
Published: September 2017

Congenitally missing teeth are one of the most common dental anomalies which may be termed as dental agenesis. Polygenesis, the formation of one or more supernumerary teeth, occurs much less frequently than agenesis. Hypodontia and hyperdontia are regarded as the opposite dental developmental anomalies. However, their simultaneous presence in the same individual is a rare condition. A case of concomitant hypo-hyperdontia (CHH) is presented here, wherein a 20-year-old female has missing mandibular central incisors, maxillary second molars, and all the third molars. In addition, she has a malformed supernumerary tooth in the mandibular left anterior region. Documentation of such rare case reports is necessary as it helps in minimizing the clinicians' challenge in diagnosing such cases and thus helpful in providing a multidisciplinary approach in treating such patients.

How to cite this article

Gupta N, Kadu A, Marya CM, Nagpal R, Oberoi S, Dahiya V. Congenitally Missing Permanent Mandibular Central Incisors and Maxillary Second Molars in Conjunction with a Supernumerary Mandibular Central Incisor. J Oral Health Comm Dent 2017;11(2):44-47.
Contextualizing ICT in Africa: The Development of the CATI model in Tanzanian Higher Education
Authors: Vesisenaho Mikko , Kemppainen Jyri , Islas Carolina , Tedre Matti , Sutinen Erkki
Published: September 2017

In many parts of Africa the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in higher education institutions offers a particularly interesting research problem. This is because of the far-reaching consequences that information and communication technology (ICT) services and education have on the university graduates during their careers in African societies. Our extensive and well-documented experience of utilizing ICTs in a Tanzanian private university has lead us to propose a four-level approach, called CATI model, that can be used as the basis for implementing new ICTs, for evaluating how ICT is used, and for planning ICT education in developing countries. We conceptually categorize the four levels that we use in our model – contextualize, apply, transfer and import – as an ethnocomputing approach. This four-level model enable educators to use ICT services and ICT education in African universities in a way that will prepare university graduates to make a positive contribution to their own societies. The success of this model is attributable to the emphasis that we placed on local needs and creativity and on applications of ICTs that were sensitive to local culture, conditions and understanding.
FDTD Investigations into UWB Radar Technique of Breast Tumor Detection and Location
Authors: Wang Hua , Bialkowski Marek E. , Liu Feng , Crozier Stuart
Published: September 2017

In this paper, a finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is applied to investigate capabilities of an ultra-wide band (UWB) radar system to detect and locate a breast tumor. The investigations are divided into three parts. The first part concerns an EM field analysis of a phantom formed by a plastic container with liquid and a small highly reflecting target. In the second part, a three-dimensional numerical breast model is used to perform more advanced studies. In the carried out 3D FDTD simulations, a quasi-plane wave is used as an incident wave. Various time snap shots of the electromagnetic field are recorded to learn about the physical phenomenon of reflection and scattering in different layers of the phantoms. The third part of the investigations concerns a two dimensional (cylindrical) image reconstruction, which is performed by means of 2D FDTD. The obtained results should form the ground for working out suitable guidelines for designing an optimal microwave breast imaging apparatus based on the UWB radar technique.
The Full ESWAN Destination-Based Approach: Operations And Evaluation
Authors: Morgan Yasser , Kunz Thomas
Published: September 2017

In response to the growing need to support better than best-effort (BE) quality of service (QoS) in mobile ad-hoc and sensor networks, many QoS models have been proposed. SWAN independent QoS model is introduced to operate on wireless ad-hoc networks. As a cross layer QoS model, SWAN is flexible and may run over any routing protocol or Media Access Control (MAC) layers. SWAN provides some advantages over competitive models However, SWAN is vulnerable to problems related to mobility and false admission. The original SWAN model discusses the two problems as part of a dynamic regulation of real-time flows, and introduced two solutions, namely source and network-based regulation algorithms. This paper criticizes both regulation algorithms and show why destination-based algorithm selects real-time victim flows in a better way. Then we provide test results to analyze and evaluate the destination-based approach.
A Demographic Survey of GSM Subscribers’ Opinion on Quality of Service: A Study of Three Towns in Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Aliga Aliga Paul , Moibi Okoro Felix , Tunde Erimafa John
Published: September 2017

This paper evaluated subscribers’ opinion on the Quality of Service (QoS) of GSM in Edo State, Nigeria. Four major GSM operators were used for the analysis. Data were generated through questionnaire administration. Information from respondents was analysed using descriptive analysis. The results of the analysis showed that the GSM respondents were not satisfied with the QoS provided by the network operators. The implication of this is that lack of attention to the improvement of QoS by GSM service providers would significantly decrease service use by subscribers in the chosen demographic region. The paper hence, aimed at identifying QoS problems in the selected region and proffering solutions to identified problems.
Rainfall drives atmospheric ice-nucleating particles in the coastal climate of southern Norway
Authors: Conen Franz , Eckhardt Sabine , Gundersen Hans , Stohl Andreas , Yttri Karl Espen
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Ice-nucleating particles (INPs) active at modest supercooling (e.g. −8 °C; INP−8) can transform clouds from liquid to mixed phase, even at very small number concentrations (< 10 m−3). Over the course of 15 months, we found very similar patterns in weekly concentrations of INP−8 in PM10 (median  =  1.7 m−3, maximum  =  10.1 m−3) and weekly amounts of rainfall (median  =  28 mm, maximum  =  153 mm) at Birkenes, southern Norway. Most INP−8 were probably aerosolised locally by the impact of raindrops on plant, litter and soil surfaces. Major snowfall and heavy rain onto snow-covered ground were not mirrored by enhanced numbers of INP−8. Further, transport model calculations for large (> 4 m−3) and small (< 4 m−3) numbers of INP−8 revealed that potential source regions likely to provide precipitation to southern Norway were associated with large numbers of INP−8. The proportion of land cover and land use type in potential source regions was similar for large and small numbers of INP−8. In PM2. 5 we found consistently about half as many INP−8 as in PM10. From mid-May to mid-September, INP−8 correlated positively with the fungal spore markers arabitol and mannitol, suggesting that some fraction of INP−8 during that period may consist of fungal spores. In the future, warmer winters with more rain instead of snow may enhance airborne concentrations of INP−8 during the cold season in southern Norway and in other regions with a similar climate.
Air quality modelling in the summer over the Eastern
Mediterranean using WRF/Chem: Chemistry and aerosol
mechanisms intercomparison
Authors: Georgiou George K. , Christoudias Theodoros , Proestos Yiannis , Kushta Jonilda , Hadjinicolaou Panos , Lelieveld Jos
Published: September 2017

Abstract. We employ the WRF/Chem model to study summertime air pollution, the intense photochemical activity and their impact on air quality over the Eastern Mediterranean. We utilize three nested domains with horizontal resolution of 80 km-16 km-4 km, with the finest grid focusing on the island of Cyprus, where the CYPHEX campaign took place in July, 2014. Anthropogenic emissions are based on the EDGAR HTAP global emission inventory, while dust and biogenic emissions are calculated online. Three simulations utilizing the CBMZ-MOSAIC, MOZART-MOSAIC, and RADM2-MADE/SORGAM gas-phase and aerosol mechanisms are performed. The results are compared with measurements from a dense observational network of 14 ground stations in Cyprus. The model simulates T2 m, Psurf, and WD10 m accurately, with minor differences in WS10 m between model and observations at coastal and mountainous stations attributed to limitations in the representation of the complex topography in the model. It is shown that the south-eastern part of Cyprus is mostly affected by emissions from within the island, under the dominant (60 %) westerly flow during summertime. Clean maritime air from the Mediterranean can reduce concentrations of local air pollutants over the region during westerlies. Ozone concentrations are overestimated by all three mechanisms (9 %
Monoterpene chemical speciation in the Amazon tropical rainforest: variation with season, height,
and time of day at the Amazon Tall Tower Observatory (ATTO)
Authors: Yañez-Serrano Ana María , Nölscher Anke Christine , Bourtsoukidis Efstratios , Gomes Alves Eliane , Ganzeveld Laurens , Bonn Boris , Wolff Stefan , Sa Marta , Yamasoe Marcia , Williams Jonathan , Andreae Meinrat O. , Kesselmeier Jürgen
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Speciated monoterpene measurements in the Amazon rainforest air are scarce, but important in order to understand their contribution to the overall reactivity of volatile organic compound (VOCs) emissions towards the main atmospheric oxidants, such as hydroxyl radical (OH), ozone (O3) and nitrate radical (NO3). In this study, we present the chemical speciation of gas phase monoterpenes measured in the tropical rainforest at the Amazon Tall Tower Observatory (ATTO, Amazonas, Brazil). Samples of VOCs were collected by two automatic sampling systems positioned on a tower at 12 and 24 m height and analysed using Gas Chromatography Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID). The samples were collected in October 2015, representing the dry season, and compared with previous wet and dry season studies at the site. In addition, vertical profile measurements (at 12 and 24 m) of total monoterpene mixing ratios were made using Proton-Transfer Reaction Mass Spectrometry (PTR-MS). The results showed a distinctly different chemical speciation between day and night. For instance, α-pinene was more abundant during the day, whereas limonene was more abundant at night. Reactivity calculations showed that the most abundant compounds may not be the most atmospheric chemically relevant compounds. Furthermore, inter- and intra-annual results demonstrate similar chemodiversity during the dry seasons analysed. Simulations with a canopy exchange modelling system compare relatively well with the observed temporal variability in speciated monoterpene mixing ratios, but also indicate the necessity of more experiments to enhance our understanding of in-canopy sinks of these monoterpenes.
Modification, Calibration, and Performance of the Ultra-High Sensitivity Aerosol Spectrometer for Particle Size Distribution and Volatility Measurements During the Atmospheric Tomography (ATom) Airborne Campaign
Authors: Kupc Agnieszka , Williamson Christina , Wagner Nicholas L. , Richardson Mathews , Brock Charles A.
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Atmospheric aerosol is a key component of the chemistry and climate of the Earth's atmosphere. Accurate measurement of the concentration of atmospheric particles as a function of their size is fundamental to investigations of particle microphysics, optical characteristics, and chemical processes. We describe the modification, calibration, and performance of two commercially available, ultra-high sensitivity aerosol spectrometers (UHSASs) as used on the NASA DC-8 aircraft during the Atmospheric Tomography Mission (ATom). To avoid sample flow issues related to pressure variations during aircraft altitude changes, we installed a laminar flow meter on each instrument to measure sample flow directly at the inlet as well as flow controllers to maintain constant volumetric sheath flows. In addition, we added a compact thermodenuder operating at 300 °C to the inlet line of one of the instruments. With these modifications, the instruments are capable of making accurate (ranging from 7 % for Dp  0.13 μm), precise ( 1000 to 225 hPa, while simultaneously providing information on particle volatility. We assessed the effect of uncertainty in the refractive index (n) of ambient particles that are sized by the UHSAS assuming the refractive index of ammonium sulfate (n = 1.52). For calibration particles with n between 1.44 and 1.58, the UHSAS diameter varies by +4/−10 % relative to ammonium sulfate. This diameter uncertainty associated with the range of refractive indices (i.e. particle composition) translates to aerosol surface area and volume uncertainties of +8.4/−17.8 % and +12.4/−27.5 % respectively. Additional to sizing uncertainty, low counting statistics can lead to uncertainties of
The devil's in the disequilibrium: sensitivity of ocean carbon storage to climate state and iron fertilization in a general circulation model
Authors: Eggleston Sarah , Galbraith Eric D.
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Ocean dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) storage can be conceptualized as the sum of four components: saturation (DICsat), disequilibrium (DICdis), carbonate (DICcarb) and soft tissue (DICsoft). Among these, DICdis and DICsoft have the potential for large changes that are relatively difficult to predict. Here we explore changes in DICsoft and DICdis in a large suite of simulations with a complex coupled climate-biogeochemical model, driven by changes in orbital forcing, ice sheets and the radiative effect of CO2. Both DICdis and DICsoft vary over a range of 40 μmol kg−1 in response to the climate forcing, equivalent to changes in atmospheric CO2 on the order of 50 ppm for each. We find that, despite the broad range of climate states represented, changes in global DICsoft can be well-approximated by the product of deep ocean ideal age and the global export production flux, while global DICdis is dominantly controlled by the fraction of the ocean filled by Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW). Because the AABW fraction and ideal age are inversely correlated between the simulations, DICdis and DICsoft are also inversely correlated. This inverse correlation could be decoupled if changes in deep ocean mixing were to alter ideal age independently of AABW fraction, or if independent ecosystem changes were to alter export and remineralization, thereby modifying DICsoft. As an example of the latter, iron fertilization causes DICsoft to increase, and causes DICdis to also increase by a similar or greater amount, to a degree that depends on climate state. We propose a simple framework to consider the global contribution of DICsoft + DICdis to ocean carbon storage as a function of the surface preformed nitrate and DICdis of dense water formation regions, the global volume fractions ventilated by these regions, and the global nitrate inventory. More extensive sea ice increases DICdis, and when sea ice becomes very extensive it also causes significant O2 disequilibrium, which may have contributed to reconstructions of low O2 in the Southern Ocean during the glacial. Global DICdis reaches a minimum near modern CO2 because the AABW fraction reaches a minimum, which may have contributed to preventing further CO2 rise during interglacial periods.
Arc volcanism, carbonate platform evolution and palaeo-atmospheric CO2: Components and interactions in the deep carbon cycle
Authors: Pall Jodie , Zahirovic Sabin , Doss Sebastiano , Hassan Rakib , Matthews Kara J. , Cannon John , Gurnis Michael , Moresi Louis , Lenardic Adrian , Müller R. Dietmar
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Carbon dioxide (CO2) liberated at arc volcanoes that intersect buried carbonate platforms plays a larger role in influencing atmospheric CO2 than those active margins lacking buried carbonate platforms. This study investigates the contribution of carbonate-intersecting arc activity on palaeo-atmospheric CO2 levels over the past 410 million years by integrating a plate motion model with an evolving carbonate platform development model. Our modelled subduction zone lengths and carbonate-intersecting arc lengths approximate arc activity with time, and can be used as input into fully-coupled models of CO2 flux between deep and shallow reservoirs. Continuous and cross-wavelet as well as wavelet coherence analyses were used to evaluate trends between carbonate-intersecting arc activity, non-carbonate-intersecting arc activity and total global subduction zone lengths and the proxy-CO2 record between 410 Ma and the present. Wavelet analysis revealed significant linked periodic behaviour between 75–50 Ma, where global carbonate-intersecting arc activity is relatively high and where peaks in palaeo-atmospheric CO2 is correlated with peaks in global carbonate-intersecting arc activity, characterised by a ~ 32 Myr periodicity and a 10 Myr lag of CO2 peaks after carbonate-intersecting arc length peaks. The linked behaviour may suggest that the relative abundance of carbonate-intersecting arcs played a role in affecting global climate during the Late Cretaceous to Early Paleogene greenhouse. At all other times, atmospheric CO2 emissions from carbonate-intersecting arcs were not correlated with the proxy-CO2 record. Our analysis did not support the idea that carbonate-intersecting arc activity is more important than non-carbonate intersecting arc activity in driving changes in palaeo-atmospheric CO2 levels. This suggests that tectonic controls are more elaborate than the subduction-related volcanic emissions component or that other feedback mechanisms between the geosphere, atmosphere and biosphere played larger roles in modulating climate in the Phanerozoic.
Empirical Estimation of the Spatial Sediment Transport Capacity Coefficient Using the Rain Erosivity Factor and SWAT Model Results in the Han River Basin, South Korea
Authors: Jung Chung-Gil , Jang Won-Jin , Kim Seong-Joon
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The ratio of sediment delivery is a critical and uncertain factor in model-based assessments of the total sediment yield of watersheds that results from the transport of sediment produced by soil erosion. This study estimates the watershed-scale distribution of sediment yield at a spatial resolution of 1 km by 1 km through evaluating the rain erosivity (R) factor of the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) in the Han River basin (34,148 km2) of South Korea over 14 years (2000~2013) using 1-minute data from 16 rainfall gauging stations. For this study, the Water and Tillage Erosion Model/Sediment Delivery Model (WATEM/SEDEM) sediment delivery algorithm is adopted. This algorithm is based on R, the soil erodibility factor K, the length-slope factors LS of RUSLE, and the transport capacity coefficient KTC. The average 1-minute value of R for the basin is estimated to be 3,812 MJ/ha · mm/year. To determine the 1-km grid-based transport capacity coefficient (KTC; generally given from 0.01 to 100) for the transport capacity (TC) equation used in the estimation of sediment transport with WATEM/SEDEM algorithm, the TC results from 181 subwatersheds ranging in area from 75.4 km2 to 281.5 km2 obtained using the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE) implemented in the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) are used. A comparison of the suspended solids (SS) simulated using SWAT with the observed values at 7 locations yields an average coefficient of determination R2 of 0.72. Using the SWAT TC, the spatial KTC is determined in each subwatershed. These values range from 0.16 to 112.58, and the average value for the whole basin is 12.58. To permit general estimation of KTC values, multiple regressions are performed using the characteristic watershed factors of watershed slope, watershed area, the K factor of MUSLE, upland crop area (%), and paddy field area (%). A multiple regression equation of KTC with watershed area, K factor, and upland crop area (%) is derived. This equation yields an R2 of 0.76 when compared to the KTC values evaluated using SWAT. The KTC can be determined using information on watershed scale, soil and land use.
Are Analysts Overoptimistic about the Prospects of Sin Firms?
Authors: Zhang Jin , Shin Haeyoung
Published: September 2017

We investigate the association between the bias and accuracy of consensus analysts’ earnings forecasts and whether a firm is a sin firm or not. We measure analyst forecast bias as the difference between the consensus earnings forecast and the actual earnings, scaled by the stock price. We measure analyst forecast accuracy as the negative of the absolute value of the difference between the firms’ forecasted and actual earnings, scaled by the stock price. We find a positive association between the level of forecast optimism and sin firm membership. We find a negative association between the level of forecast accuracy and sin firm membership. Overall, these results imply that analysts tend to issue over-optimistic and less accurate earnings forecasts on sin firms.
Reference evapotranspiration for Londrina, Paraná, Brazil: performance of different estimation methods
Authors: Silva Rodrigo Dlugosz da , Silva Marcelo Augusto de Aguiar e , Canteri Marcelo Giovanetti , Rosisca Juliandra Rodrigues , Vieira Junior Nilson Aparecido
Published: September 2017

Aiming at assessing the performance of alternative methods to Penman-Monteith FAO56 for estimating the reference evapotranspiration (ETo) for Londrina, Paraná, Brazil, the methods temperature radiation, Hicks-Hess, Hargreaves-Samani (1982), Turc, Priestley-Taylor, Tanner-Pelton, Jensen-Haise, Makkink, modified Hargreaves, Stephens-Stewart, Abtew, global radiation, Ivanov, Lungeon, Hargreaves-Samani (1985), Benavides-Lopez, original Penman, Linacre, Blaney-Morin, Romanenko, Hargreaves (1974), McCloud, Camargo, Hamon, Kharrufa, McGuiness-Bordne, and Blaney-Criddle were compared to that standard method recommended by FAO. The estimations were correlated by linear regression and assessed by using the Person’s correlation coefficient (r), concordance index (d), and performance index (c) using a set of meteorological data of approximately 40 years. The methods modified Hargreaves, Stephens-Stewart, Abtew, global radiation, Ivanov, Lungeon, Hargreaves-Samani (1985), Benavides-Lopez, original Penman, and Linacre should be avoided, as they did not present excellent results. The methods McCloud, Camargo, Hamon, Kharrufa, McGuinness-Bordne, Blaney-Criddle, Hargreaves (1974), Romanenko, and Blaney-Morin were classified as very bad, not being recommended. In contrast, the methods temperature radiation, Hicks-Hess, Hargreaves-Samani (1982), Turc, Priestley-Taylor, Tenner-Pelton, Jensen-Haise, and Makkink presented excellent performance indices and can be applied in the study region.
Water erosion associated with rainfall patterns in the extreme South of Bahia in eucalyptus post-planting
Authors: Guimaraes Danielle Vieira , Silva Marx Leandro Naves , Bispo Diêgo Faustolo Alves , Martins Sérgio Gualberto , Melo Neto Jose De Oliveira , Martins Ricardo Previdente , Curi Nilton
Published: September 2017

Soil and water losses caused by water erosion represent a risk of environmental damage and loss of soil productivity, with economic, social and environmental consequences. Plant cover is an important ally against water erosion, together with the knowledge of rainfall characteristics. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the soil and water losses and to determine rainfall patterns in two homogeneous eucalyptus plantations; one in Yellow Argisol, located in Teixeira de Freitas, and another in Humiluvic Spodosol, located in Caravelas, both in the Extreme South of the state of Bahia. Erosion plots were installed, and consisted of three treatments: bare soil, eucalyptus, and native forest. Rainfall data was obtained from an automatic gauging station, with 10 minute registration interval for erosivity (erosivity index EI30) and rainfall pattern analyses. Higher soil losses were observed in Yellow Argisol, and the advanced rainfall pattern was predominant. Eucalyptus minimum tillage was efficient in reducing soil and water losses by water erosion.
In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility and genetic resistance determinants of Streptococcus agalactiae isolated from mastitic cows in Brazilian dairy herds
Authors: Silva Juliana Rosa da , Castro Glei Dos Anjos de Carvalho , Gonçalves Maysa Serpa , Custódio Dircéia Aparecida da Costa , Mian Gláucia Frasnelli , Costa Geraldo Márcio da
Published: September 2017

Streptococcus agalactiae is one of the main causative agents of bovine mastitis and is associated with several economic losses for producers. Few studies have evaluated antimicrobial susceptibility and the prevalence of genetic resistance determinants among isolates of this bacterium from Brazilian dairy cattle. This work aimed to evaluate the frequency of the antimicrobial resistance genes ermA, ermB, mefA, tetO, tetM, aphA3, and aad-6, and in vitro susceptibility to the antimicrobials amikacin, erythromycin, clindamycin, tetracycline, gentamicin, penicillin, ceftiofur, and cefalotin, and the associations between resistance genotypes and phenotypes among 118 S. agalactiae isolates obtained from mastitic cows in Brazilian dairy herds. Of the resistance genes examined, ermB was found in 19 isolates (16.1%), tetO in 23 (19.5%), and tetM in 24 (20.3%). The genes ermA, mefA, aphA3, and aad-6 were not identified. There was an association between the presence of genes ermB, tetM, and tetO and phenotypic resistance to erythromycin, clindamycin, and tetracycline. Rates of resistance to the tested antibiotics varied, as follows: erythromycin (19.5%), tetracycline (35.6%), gentamicin (9.3%), clindamycin (20.3%), penicillin (3.4%), and amikacin (38.1%); conversely, all isolates were susceptible to ceftiofur and cefalotin. Antimicrobial resistance testing facilitates the treatment decision process, allowing the most judicious choice of antibiotics. Moreover, it enables regional and temporal monitoring of the resistance dynamics of this pathogen of high importance to human and animal health.
Mannan-oligosaccharide and organic acids for weaned piglets
Authors: Vieira Marcia De Souza , Dadalt Julio Cezar , Ribeiro Andréa Machado Leal , Almeida Thiago William de
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of acetic, propionic, and formic (50%) organic acids and mannan-oligosaccharide (50%) on growth performance, digestibility, and faecal score in challenged weaned piglets. Twenty male piglets (5.57 ± 0.32 kg of BW; 21-24 days of age) were housed individually in metabolic cages for 28 days in an acclimatised room. The treatments were composed of the inclusion (0.1%; n = 10) or not (n = 10) of additive in the diet. The experimental design was completely randomised with two treatments, 10 replicates, and one piglet per replicate. The nutritional matrix was supplemented with 10% of barley and 35.9 to 34.0% of soybean meal in the pre-starter diet (3-14 days post-weaning) and the starter diet (15-28 days post-weaning), respectively, to cause an intestinal challenge. Diets did not include any antimicrobial or growth promoters. Weekly, the animal and the leftover diet were weighed to evaluate growth performance. Digestibility was evaluated through total faeces and urine collection. Piglets fed diets with additive had 8.7% greater weight gain (P < 0.05) compared to those piglets in the control treatment in the starter phase. For other growth performance responses there was no treatment effect. Similarly, the inclusion of additive in the piglet diets did not affect the faecal score or the energy and nutrient digestibility. In the starter phase and throughout the experimental period, piglets fed diets with additive had 18.37% and 15.07% greater nitrogen (N) intake and 19.53% and 16.05% greater N retention, respectively, compared to piglets in the control treatment (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the addition of additive composed by organic acids and mannan-oligosaccharide does not improve energy and nutrient digestibility but increases the N retention and weight gain in weaned piglets in the starting phase.
Hydroponic cultivation of Oncidium baueri
Authors: Rodrigues Daniele Brandstetter , Assis Adriane Marinho de , Faria Ricardo Tadeu , Schuch Marcia Wullf , Peil Roberta Marins Nogueira
Published: September 2017

In Brazil, orchid cultivation has been increasing steadily over the last few years and contributing significantly to the economy. It has been reported that several vegetable crops and ornamentals have been successfully grown by soilless cultivation. The orchid Oncidium baueri Lindl. is grown on pot substrates. Nevertheless, hydroponics is an excellent alternative, especially for the production of cut flowers and bare root plants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the development of Oncidium baueri on two soilless systems: (a) pots containing Amafibra® coconut fiber, carbonized rice husk, and pine bark (1:1:1) irrigated with nutrient solution every 15 d; and (b) a nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic system irrigated with nutrient solution daily. Shoot height, pseudobulb diameter, and number of sprouts were evaluated monthly. The number of flowering plants, number of flowers, dry mass of shoots, and dry mass of roots were evaluated 11 months after onset of experiment. The pot cultivation system yielded more flowers and higher values for all vegetative parameters than the NFT hydroponic system.
Occurrence and phylogenetic analysis of ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ in wild felines from Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Claudia Mello , Matos Aldair Calistro de , Richini-Pereira Virgínia Bodelão , Lucheis Simone Baldini , Azzolini Felippe , Sipp Juliane Patrícia , Lima Patrícia Paiva , Katagiri Satie , Vidotto Odilon
Published: September 2017

Hemoplasma infections are emerging and wild fauna can represent an important reservoir of these pathogens. However, there are very few epidemiological studies about the occurrence of hemoplasmas in wild cats around the world. The purpose of this study is twofold: (1) evaluate the occurrence and phylogeny of hemoplasmas in captive wild felines at a zoo in the state of Paraná, Brazil, and (2) verify the correlation between subpopulations of these bacteria and the hematological and biochemical parameters of the animals. PCR was used to detect hemoplasmas in the blood of three cougars (Puma concolor), a jaguar (Panthera onca), a tiger (Panthera tigris) and a lion (Panthera leo), followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The cougars and jaguar were found to be hemoplasma-positive by PCR. The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences enabled the identification of genotypes of ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ circulating in this zoo. The identified sequences were closely related to hemoplasma sequences originating from domestic cats and other wild cats, but the infected cougars and jaguar were healthy and showed no hematological or biochemical changes. It was concluded that P. concolor and P. onca are exposed to ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ in Paraná, but further research is suggested to assess the resistance of wild cats to different hemoplasma subpopulations.
Adverse Effects of Amphetamines on the Cardiovascular System: Review and Retrospective Analyses of Trends
Authors: Al-Imam Ahmed
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND: Amphetamine and amphetamine-type stimulants are powerful physical and psychostimulants; they are phenethylamine derivatives. The use of amphetamines can be either medicinal or illicit. Several amphetamines have been redesigned into illegal drugs of potent properties, also known as research chemicals and designer drugs. Hence, they are named novel (new) psychoactive substances (NPS).MATERIALS & METHODS: This study is a hybrid study of; data crunching and retrospective analysis of a trends database (1), and a systematic review of literature in relation to the amphetamines-induced adverse effects on the cardiovascular system (2). Google Trends database has been analysed in retrospect (2012-2017) to evaluate the attentiveness of surface web users towards amphetamine and a potent renowned amphetamine derivative known as captagon (fenethylline).RESULTS: Amphetamines appear to be highly popular worldwide, particularly in the developed world including North America and European countries, and to a less extent in the developing countries including the Middle East. However, the trends are oscillating with time with significant year-to-year changes although there was some steadiness in the temporal patterns (trends), for example in 2013-2014 (p-value=0.258). Variations in the trends were found to be correlated with global events including international terrorism. The adverse effects of amphetamines were found to be highly related to the cardiovascular system with a high incidence of intoxications and deaths among substance (ab)users.CONCLUSION: Several amphetamines are potent and used illicitly beyond their original therapeutic potential, as in the case of captagon, culminating in monumental public and economic threats. Legalising bodies should exercise tremendous and systematic efforts to counteract these threats. Database analyses can provide an accurate insight into this phenomenon that has been growing exponentially in the past decade.
Captagon, Octodrine, and NBOMe: An Integrative Analysis of Trends Databases, the Deep Web, and the Darknet
Authors: Al-Imam Ahmed , AbdulMajeed Ban A.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND: Captagon, Octodrine, and NBOMe are unique substances; each represents a chemical category of its own pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties. Captagon is an amphetamine-type stimulant, while octodrine is a sympathomimetic agent, on the other hand, NBOMe is a hallucinogen (psychedelic substance). However, the mechanism of action for each is exerted via monoamine transporters.MATERIALS & METHODS: This study will explore these substances using an integrative approach via the analysis of the surface and deep web, and a trends database. The aims are; to visualise the extent of diffusion of each substance on the internet, conclude the geo-mapping for the diffusion, to see if the patterns are compatible on both divisions of the web, and to infer data on the basis of the power (authority) for e-vendors on the darknet e-marketplace. This study is a hybrid of cross-sectional and retrospective analyses.RESULTS: Google Trends analyses confirmed that the popularity of captagon is ahead over both NBOMe and octodrine; captagon popularity was correlated with terror attacks in the developed world, particularly in western European countries. The contribution of the developing countries to the diffusion of these substances, including the Middle East, was minimal.CONCLUSION: This study proposes a novel method to analyse the e-markets on the darknet via the use of; analysis of the basis of power, inferential statistics, geo-mapping in parallel with data from Google Trends database. Data from Google Trends can serve as a foundation for data mining techniques for an efficient warning system against an anticipated swarm of intoxications or an attack of terror.
The Preferred Terminology Implemented by Psychedelic Users Existing on Online Platforms: A Cross-sectional Analysis
Authors: Al-Imam Ahmed
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND: The epidemiologic magnitude of the NPS (ab)use has been thoroughly explored and geographically mapped in the developed world. However, there are still untapped geographic locations primarily in the developing countries including the Middle East. Historically, mapping has been done via observational analytics, cross-sectionally and longitudinally, in addition to few experimental studies.MATERIALS & METHODS: The study is cross-sectional; it will implement the internet snapshot technique, in addition to the application of thematic analysis and psychoanalysis of comments of NPS (ab)users on the online drug fora and social communication media. The data collected will be analysed for the purpose of concluding a statistical inference in relation to the terms most preferred by substance (ab)users towards hallucinogenic substances.RESULTS: The population was dominated by right-handed males; most of which were either heterosexual or bisexual. Psychedelics users have a preference for specific terms; psychedelic (73%), entheogen (12%), hallucinogen (11%), spiritual aids (3%), mysticomimetic (1%), psychotomimetic (<1%), medicines (<1%), and trip (<1%). Right-handed users who used the term psychedelic were a majority (53%), while right-handed individuals using the terms entheogen and hallucinogen contributed to 8% for each.CONCLUSION: This study is in line with other studies confirming the minute contribution of the Middle East to the global NPS phenomenon. Additional studies are mandatory for different populations including; students, academics and researchers, medical professionals, psychiatric patients, military and para-military organisations, delinquent and prisoners, and even terrorists.