bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Linear Measurements and Analyses taken from Plaster Models and Three-dimensional Images
Authors: Tonetto Mateus Rodrigues , Bandéca Matheus Coelho , Silva Mônica Barros , Porto Betina Grehs , Porto Thiago Soares , Grehs Renésio Armindo , Pinto Ary dos Santos , Bhandi Shilpa H , Santos-Pinto Lourdes Aparecida Martins dos
Published: March 2015

Digital models are an alternative for carrying out analyses and devising treatment plans in orthodontics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and the reproducibility of measurements of tooth sizes, interdental distances and analyses of occlusion using plaster models and their digital images. Thirty pairs of plaster models were chosen at random, and the digital images of each plaster model were obtained using a laser scanner (3Shape R-700, 3Shape A/S). With the plaster models, the measurements were taken using a caliper (Mitutoyo Digimatic®, Mitutoyo (UK) Ltd) and the MicroScribe (MS) 3DX (Immersion, San Jose, Calif). For the digital images, the measurement tools used were those from the O3d software (Widialabs, Brazil). The data obtained were compared statistically using the Dahlberg formula, analysis of variance and the Tukey test (p < 0.05). The majority of the measurements, obtained using the caliper and O3d were identical, and both were significantly different from those obtained using the MS. Intra-examiner agreement was lowest when using the MS. The results demonstrated that the accuracy and reproducibility of the tooth measurements and analyses from the plaster models using the caliper and from the digital models using O3d software were identical.

How to cite this article

Porto BG, Porto TS, Silva MB, Grehs RA, dos Santos Pinto A, Bhandi SH, Tonetto MR, Bandéca MC, dos Santos-Pinto LAM. Comparison of Linear Measurements and Analyses taken from Plaster Models and Three-dimensional Images. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(6):681-687.
Medical Emergency Management among Iranian Dentists
Authors: Khami Mohammad Reza , Yazdani Reza , Afzalimoghaddam Mohammad , Razeghi Samaneh , Moscowchi Anahita
Published: March 2015

Aims

More than 18,000 patients need medical emergencies management in dental offices in Iran annually. The present study investigates medical emergencies management among Iranian dentists.

Materials and methods

From the list of the cell phone numbers of the dentists practicing in the city of Tehran, 210 dentists were selected randomly. A self-administered questionnaire was used as the data collection instrument. The questionnaire requested information on personal and professional characteristics of the dentists, as well as their knowledge and selfreported practice in the field of medical emergency management, and availability of required drugs and equipments to manage medical emergencies in their offices.

Results

Totally, 177 dentists (84%) completed the questionnaire. Less than 60% of the participants were knowledgeable about characteristics of hypoglycemic patient, chest pain with cardiac origin, and true cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) practice. Regarding practice, less than one quarter of the respondents acquired acceptable scores. In regression models, higher practice scores were significantly associated with higher knowledge scores (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results call for a need to further education on the subject for dentists. Continuing education and changing dental curriculum in the various forms seems to be useful in enhancement of the self-reported knowledge and practice of dentists.

Clinical significance

To successful control of medical emergencies in the dental office, dentists must be prepared to recognize and manage a variety of such conditions. In addition to dentist's knowledge and skill, availability of necessary equipments and trained staff is also of critical importance.

How to cite this article

Khami MR, Yazdani R, Afzalimoghaddam M, Razeghi S, Moscowchi A. Medical Emergency Management among Iranian Dentists. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(6): 693-698.
Isolation of Candida Species from the Oral Cavity and Fingertips of Complete Denture Wearers
Authors: Nagaral Suresh , Desai Raviraj G , Kamble Vikas , Patil Anand Kumar G
Published: March 2015

Background

Wearing a dental prosthesis is known to increase oral candidal colonization and predispose the wearer to oral candidosis. Denture wearers frequently use fingers to take the prosthesis out of their mouth. Oral Candida, if present may contaminate wearer's finger. The objective of this study was to investigate the simultaneous candidal colonization of oral cavity and fingertips of complete denture wearers.

Materials and methods

A total of 25 apparently healthy male subjects who had worn complete dentures for at least 1 year were selected. Information about each patient's denture age, denture hygiene, handling, and wearing habits, and hand washing habits after denture handling were be obtained. Intraoral examination of all the patients was done. For microbiological examination samples were collected from the fingertip and oral rinse of each patient. Candida species were identified with use of germ tube test and commercially available yeast identification system. Data was statistically analyzed. Significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

It was found that frequency of hand washing, denture handling and denture stomatitis with respect to fingertip candidal isolation was not statistically significant. But poor denture hygiene and denture stomatitis with respect to oral candidal colonization was statistically significant.

Conclusion

Denture wearers with oral Candida had a higher prevalence of Candida contamination on their fingers. Patients with removable prostheses should be informed about the importance of proper prosthesis and personal hygiene and the possibility of microbial contamination of the hands and other parts of the body.

How to cite this article

Nagaral S, Desai RG, Kamble V, Patil AKG. Isolation of Candida Species from the Oral Cavity and Fingertips of Complete Denture Wearers. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(6):712-716.
Evaluation of Interleukin-1α, Interleukin-10, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and transforming Growth Factor-β in the Serum of Patients with Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Khozeimeh Faezeh , Savabi Omid , Esnaashari Masih
Published: March 2015

Pemphigus is an autoimmune blistering disease characterized by a loss of cell adhesion result in acantholysis. Genetic factors and immunologic factors such as cytokines particularly IL-1α, IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β may counterpart to developing of Pemphigus. The aim of this study was to evaluate. The concentration of IL-1α, IL-10, TNF-α, TGF-α in serum of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) patients and normal individuals.

Material and methods

In this analytic and descriptive study 25 patients with pemphigus vulgaris (in active phase) and 25 healthy persons were examined. Serum samples of two groups were obtained and the level of IL-1α, IL-10, TNF-α and TGF-β were measured by ELISA technique. The data were analyzed statistically by independent T test (α = 0/05).

Results

All cytokines tested, showed higher concentration in patient's sera comparing to healthy control individuals. The level of IL-1α (p = 0.004), TNF-α (p = 0.008) and TGF-β (p = 0.009) were statistically different in two experimental groups, There was no significant difference in IL-10 level (p = 0.605).

Conclusion

Cytokines such as IL-1α, IL-10, TNF-α and TGF-β probably have a role in pathogenesis of PV. Further comprehensive studies are suggested to confirm these findings.

How to cite this article

Khozeimeh F, Savabi O, Esnaashari M. Evaluation of Interleukin-1α, Interleukin-10, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and transforming Growth Factor-β in the Serum of Patients with Pemphigus Vulgaris. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(6):746-749.
Radiographic Localization of Mental Foramen in Northeast and South Indian Ethnic Groups of Indian Population
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Hunsigi Prahalad , Kaipa Balakasi Reddy , Reddy Rajini , Kumar Chakki B Arun , Prasanna MD
Published: March 2015

Background and objectives

The position of mental foramen varies in different ethnic groups. The position of mental foramen is mainly important for achieving effective mental nerve block to carry out dental surgical procedures in mandible. Deviation in its position can be a cause of complication during local anesthesia or surgical procedures. The position of the mental foramen in South Indian and Northeast Indian population has not been reported.

The purpose of the current study was to determine the most common location of the mental foramen (MF) and its bilateral symmetry in selected Indian population.

Materials and methods

380 digital panoramic radiographs (DPR) of a randomly selected 2 Ethnic groups of Indian population were studied.

Results

The common position (59.2%) of the mental foramen was located between the 1st and 2nd premolars (P3) in Northeast Indians and in South Indians the common location (62.8%) was in line with the long axis of the 2nd premolar (P4), which was statistically significant in both Populations.

Conclusion

A bilateral symmetry was observed in the location of mental foramina, either mesial to or in line with the long axis of the 2nd premolar, which is consistent with the observations of similar studies in various ethnic or racial groups. In our study a statistically significant association between the 2 ethnic groups and the position of mental foramen exists. Therefore the position of mental foramen may be specific to racial groups facilitating accurate landmark for mental nerve block depending on the ethnic group. Further, studies are required with larger sample for better understanding of mental foramen location in different ethnic groups.

How to cite this article

Kumar V, Hunsigi P, Kaipa BR, Reddy R, Ealla KKR, Kumar CBA, Prasanna MD. Radiographic Localization of Mental Foramen in Northeast and South Indian Ethnic Groups of Indian Population. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(6):766-769.
Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia: A Clinical Case with a Longitudinal Approach
Authors: Fraiz Fabian Calixto , Gugisch Renato Cordeiro , Cavalcante-Leão Bianca Lopes , Macedo Liliane Moreira
Published: March 2015

Aim

This paper describes a clinical case of a male with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia submitted to rehabilitation and occlusal dental interventions with follow-up from 3 to 14 years of age.

Background

Due to the severe effects on function and esthetics, the clinical manifestations of ectodermal dysplasia exert a negative impact on quality of life. However, oral rehabilitation in childhood poses a challenge due to growth and development.

Case description

A male with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia began dental intervention at the age of 3 years. The clinical and radiographic exams revealed the absence of several primary and permanent teeth and abnormal shape of the primary maxillary incisors. The facial characteristics were compatible with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, such as a prominent brow, everted lips, flattened bridge of the nose and small vertical facial height. The treatment proposed involved rehabilitation through successive temporary partial dentures, functional orthopedics of the jaws, esthetic reconstruction of the anterior teeth, timely occlusal intervention and preventive actions for the control of dental caries and plaque.

Conclusion

The present case demonstrates that early care plays a fundamental role in minimizing the biopsychosocial consequences of hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia and preparing the patient for future oral rehabilitation.

Clinical significance

Although, the literature offers a number of papers describing dental treatment for ectodermal dysplasia, few cases include long-term follow-up and the use of a functional orthopedic appliance in combination with removable dentures in such patients.

How to cite this article

Fraiz FC, Gugisch RC, Cavalcante- Leão BL, Macedo LM. Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia: A Clinical Case with a Longitudinal Approach. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(6):788-791.
Measurement of carbonaceous aerosol with different sampling configurations and frequencies
Authors: Cheng Y. , He K.-B.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Carbonaceous aerosol in Beijing, China was measured with different sampling configurations (denuded vs. un-denuded) and frequencies (24 vs. 48 h averaged). Our results suggest that the negative sampling artifact of a bare quartz filter could be remarkably enhanced due to the uptake of water vapor by the filter medium, indicating that the positive sampling artifact tends to be underestimated under high humidity conditions. It was also observed that the analytical artifact (i.e., the underestimation of elemental carbon by the operationally defined value of the thermal-optical method) was more apparent for the low frequency samples such that their elemental carbon (EC) concentrations were about 15% lower than the reference values measured by the high-frequency, denuded filters. Moreover, EC results of the low frequency samples were found to exhibit a stronger dependence on the charring correction method. In addition, optical attenuation (ATN) of EC was retrieved from the carbon analyzer, and the low frequency samples were shown to be more significantly biased by the shadowing effect.
Variational data assimilation with superparameterization
Authors: Grooms I. , Lee Y.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Superparameterization (SP) is a multiscale computational approach wherein a large scale atmosphere or ocean model is coupled to an array of simulations of small scale dynamics on periodic domains embedded into the computational grid of the large scale model. SP has been successfully developed in global atmosphere and climate models, and is a promising approach for new applications. The authors develop a 3D-Var variational data assimilation framework for use with SP; the relatively low cost and simplicity of 3D-Var in comparison with ensemble approaches makes it a natural fit for relatively expensive multiscale SP models. To demonstrate the assimilation framework in a simple model, the authors develop a new system of ordinary differential equations similar to the two-scale Lorenz-'96 model. The system has one set of variables denoted {Yi}, with large and small scale parts, and the SP approximation to the system is straightforward. With the new assimilation framework the SP model approximates the large scale dynamics of the true system accurately.
Alfabetización informacional a través de Moodle
Authors: Cabrera Rossi Gabriela Fernanda
Published: March 2015

Se describe la experiencia de la Biblioteca “Dr. Claudio Williman” de la Facultad de Educación Física del Instituto Universitario de la Asociación Cristiana de Jóvenes (IUACJ), en el desarrollo de cursos que contribuyen a la mejora de la calidad formal de los trabajos académicos. Se presentan distintos tipos de cursos impartidos por Biblioteca de carácter semipresencial, los cuales generan créditos académicos y son desarrollados bajo la plataforma Moodle. Se describe el proceso de integración del IUACJ a Moodle como herramienta educativa facilitadora para el desarrollo y organización de los cursos. Se analiza la contribución del bibliotecólogo, como gestor de información, evaluando recursos para luego ponerlos a disposición de la comunidad académica de estudiantes, proporcionando acciones que contribuyan a consolidar a la Biblioteca en su rol de alfabetizador, favoreciendo la adquisición de conocimientos y habilidades de los usuarios. También se enumeraran los cursos dictados por la Biblioteca describiendo estructura, metodología aplicada y recursos didácticos.
Fundamentos de las normas de descripción archivística y bibliotecaria
Authors: Oliva Marañón Carlos
Published: March 2015

Los archivos, las bibliotecas y los centros de documentación han aumentado su visibilidad en Internet durante los últimos años para interactuar con los usuarios y aproximarles a los fondos documentales en formato digital. La normalización es toda actividad colectiva dirigida a establecer e implementar normas para definir los requisitos que deben cumplir bienes, servicios y procedimientos. Esta investigación desarrolla las principales normas de descripción archivística (NEDA, ISAD) y bibliotecaria (ISBD, MARC). Este proceso se considera una operación de análisis documental que respeta el principio de procedencia. Las especiales características del documento de archivo; la adaptación de las normas al fondo documental pertinente; la dificultad de la coherencia y la cohesión normativa; el aumento de volumen de trabajo; el alto coste económico; y la gestión del tiempo constituyen los principales inconvenientes para satisfacer adecuadamente las necesidades de información de los usuarios.
Educação continuada em catalogação descritiva: um olhar emergente
Authors: Castro Fabiano Ferreira de , Santos Sandra Vieira
Published: March 2015

Objetivo.Verificar a importância da Educação Continuada na Catalogação Descritiva, seus benefícios para o bibliotecário e sua influência na qualidade do Tratamento Descritivo da Informação (TDI). Método.Caracteriza-se por ser descritiva e exploratória, a fim de buscar conhecimento teórico e empírico acerca do tema, utilizando-se da aplicação de questionário e o levantamento documental, para identificar e caracterizar o perfil do bibliotecário sergipano e suas necessidades de educação continuada. Resultados.Evidenciou que os bibliotecários e os órgãos de classe não reconhecem de forma efetiva a necessidade da Educação Continuada na Catalogação Descritiva, o que nos levou a definir que se faz necessária a união das organizações, dos órgãos de classe e das instituições de ensino, na criação de medidas que visem à promoção e à participação nesse processo. Conclusões.Recomenda-se a proposta de criação e de desenvolvimento de um curso lato sensu que sustente e promova ações efetivas para a educação continuada dos bibliotecários no estado de Sergipe.
Learning Commons en bibliotecas académicas
Authors: González Martínez Larisa
Published: March 2015

Como toda creación humana, las instituciones se transforman y evolucionan con el paso del tiempo. Dicho principio afecta también a las bibliotecas académicas, las cuales han debido cambiar constantemente para responder a las necesidades de sus usuarios. El espacio físico de la biblioteca académica es uno de los muchos aspectos marcados por el cambio, ejemplo de lo cual son los espacios para el trabajo colaborativo en bibliotecas académicas, mejor conocidos como Learning Commons en la literatura especializada. Este trabajo tiene como propósito exponer las características de este modelo, para lo cual se hará un breve recuento de la historia de la planeación y la construcción de las bibliotecas académicas. Asimismo, se expondrá la manera en la cual se ha implementado el esquema Learning Commons de la biblioteca del Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM), campus Monterrey en México.
Sustainability is success
Authors: Vieira Alexandre R.
Published: March 2015

None
Ricœur et Giddens: l’herméneutique de l’homme capable et la théorie de structuration
Authors: Wolff Ernst
Published: March 2015

RésuméLe but de cet article est de mettre en dialogue Ricœur avec la théorie sociale d’Anthony Giddens, plus spécifiquement l’herméneutique de l’homme capable avec la théorie de la structuration. Nous commencerons par explorer quelques termes clefs permettant de comparer les deux auteurs au sujet du rapport entre acteurs et systèmes. Chez Ricœur, nous commenterons les notions d’institution et de pratique; chez Giddens, des notions importantes pour présenter la “dualité de structure.” Au cours de cette exploration, quatre tâches seront identifiées en vue de préciser la “théorie sociale” de Soi-même comme un autre: (1) dépasser le schéma foncièrement téléologique de l’action; (2) explorer la stabilisation de l’action malgré l’incertitude inscrite dans le schéma téléologique; (3) réinvestir la notion de contrainte; et (4) clarifier l’ambiguïté de la notion d’institution. En conclusion, nous montrerons quels apports la mise en dialogue de Ricœur avec Giddens pourrait offrir pour accomplir ces quatre tâches.Mots-clés : Homme capable, sructuration, acteur, dualité de structure, institution, contrainte.AbstractThe aim of this article is to reconstruct a dialogue between Ricœur and Anthony Giddens, in particular between the hermeneutics of the capable human and the theory of structuration. The article starts with an exploration of key concepts on the basis of which to compare the two authors on the relation between actors and systems. On Ricœur’s side the concepts of institution and practice will be commented on; on Giddens’ side notions selected to present the “duality of structure” will be considered. In the course of this exploration, four tasks will be identified by which to refine the “social theory” of Oneself as Another: (1) surpass its ultimately teleological schema of action; (2) explore the stabilisation of action despite the uncertainty attributed to the teleological schema; (3) reinvest the notion of constraint; and (4) clarify the ambiguity in the notion of institution. In conclusion the contribution of a Ricœur-Giddens dialogue to the accomplishment of these four tasks will be demonstrated.Keywords: Capable Man, Structuration, Actor, Duality of structure, Institution, Constraint.
Social imagination, abused memory, and the political place of history in Memory, History, Forgetting
Authors: Lythgoe Esteban
Published: March 2015

AbstractIn this paper we intend to show that in Memory, History, Forgetting, Paul Ricœur articulates memory and history through imagination. This philosopher distinguishes two main functions of imagination: a poetical one, associated with interpretation and discourse, and a practical and projective one that clarifies and guides our actions. In Memory, History, Forgetting, both functions of imagination are present, but are associated with different aspects of memory. The first one is present especially in the phenomenology of the cognitive dimension of memory; the second one is developed in the analysis of the abuses of artificial memory, while their convergence is described in the section on the abuses of natural memory. Besides the similarities in the way these functions of imagination operate in Oneself as Another and in Memory, History, Forgetting, we will show some important differences between these two works and we will propose reasons for these differences.Keywords: Poetical Imagination, Practical Imagination, Abused Memory, Ideology, Utopy.RésuméDans cet article nous souhaiterions montrer que, dans La mémoire, l’histoire, l’oubli, l’imagination productrice est ce qui permet d’articuler la mémoire et l´histoire. Ricœur distingue deux principales fonctions de l’imagination: l’une, poétique, associée à l’interprétation et au discours ; l’autre pratique et projective, qui éclaire et oriente nos actions. Dans La mémoire, l’histoire, l’oubli, ces deux fonctions de l’imagination sont présentes mais elles sont associées à des aspects différents de la mémoire. La première est surtout présente dans la phénoménologie de la dimension cognitive de la mémoire, la seconde apparaît dans l’analyse des abus de la mémoire artificielle, et l’articulation entre ces deux fonctions se trouve enfin décrite dans la section concernant l’abus de la mémoire naturelle. Outre les similitudes dans la façon dont ces fonctions de l’imagination opèrent dans Soi-même comme un autre et dans La mémoire, l’histoire, l’oubli, nous essaierons de montrer qu’il existe cependant certaines différences importantes entre ces deux œuvres en tentant d’en expliciter les raisons.Mots-clés: Imagination poétique, imagination pratique, mémoire abusée, idéologie, utopie.
Limiting Evil: The Value of Ideology for the Mitigation of Political Alienation in Ricoeur’s Political Paradox
Authors: Dale-Ferguson Darryl
Published: March 2015

AbstractThis paper uses Paul Ricœur’s analyses of ideology to argue for the mitigation of the possibility of political evil within the political paradox. In explicating the paradox, Ricœur seeks to hold in tension two basic aspects of politics: its benefits and its propensity to evil. This tension, however, should not be viewed as representative of a dualism. The evil of politics notwithstanding, Ricœur encourages us to view the political order as a deeply important part of our shared existence. By thinking past the distorting function of ideology to the legitimating and integrating functions that Ricœur calls more basic than distortion, a mode of thought that is often at the heart of political evil, ideology can be used to mitigate that very evil.Keywords: Ricœur, “The Political Paradox,” Ideology, Political Violence, Justice.RésuméCet article s’appuie sur les analyses ricœuriennes de l’idéologie dans le but de montrer que l’idéologie est susceptible de contribuer à une atténuation du mal politique inhérent au paradoxe politique. Dans son explicitation de ce paradoxe, Ricœur cherche à mettre en relation tensionnelle deux aspects fondamentaux de la politique: ses avantages et ses maux. Cependant, cette tension ne devrait pas être interprétée comme l’expression d’un dualisme. En dépit du mal inhérent au politique, Ricœur nous encourage à voir l’ordre politique comme une partie profondément importante de notre existence partagée. Si l’on régresse en-deçà de la fonction de distorsion de l’idéologie vers ses fonctions légitimantes et integratrices, c’est-à-dire vers ses fonctions les plus fondamentales, il apparaît en effet que l’idéologie, tout en étant souvent au cœur du mal politique, peut néanmoins être utilisée pour atténuer ce mal.Mots-clés: Ricœur, paradoxe politique, ideologie, violence politique, justice.
Jean-Luc Amalric, Paul Ricœur, l’imagination vive. Une genèse de la philosophie ricœurienne de l’imagination (Paris, Editions Hermann, 2013), pp. 686.
Authors: Lelièvre Samuel
Published: March 2015

Book review
Teaching Note: Deconstructing “Real” Love in the Classroom
Authors: Hurt Erin
Published: March 2015

This Note offers several strategies I used in my seminar course on chick lit to defamiliarize for students the romantic tropes of the genre.
Review: A Male President for Mt. Holyoke College: The Failed Fight to Maintain Female Leadership, 1934-1937 by Ann Karus Meeropol
Authors: Maher Frinde
Published: March 2015

Review of A Male President for Mt. Holyoke College: The Failed Fight to Maintain Female Leadership, 1934-1937 by Ann Karus Meeropol.
The Charter School Law in Massachusetts: Analysis, Commentary, Wish
Authors: Rubin David I.
Published: March 2015

Nowhere is the link between the right's national political agenda and the privatization of public education clearer than in Massachusetts.  In November 1995, just weeks before announcing that he would run for the U.S. Senate against the liberal Democratic incumbent John Kerry, Governor William Weld unveiled a truly radical plan for reshaping K-12 education that could make Massachusetts the testing ground for every weapon in the privatization arsenal.
Identity Matters: Teaching Transgender in the Women’s Studies Classroom
Authors: Drabinski Kate
Published: March 2015

Teaching transgender studies is often assumed to fall under the purview of gender and women’s studies programs and the GLBT studies programs often nested there where claims have been made on the territories of gender and sexuality. The questions that have long plagued these programs persist: Is our subject matter women and men, gays and lesbians, transgender people? Or is it rather the production of those categories and how they come to matter? What, exactly, is the object of our study, when that object is so often our own subjectivities and a necessarily moving target? Identities are historical artifacts rather than static realities, so to teach identity-based programs is to risk further calcifying the very categories that operate to oppress those of us who live on the margins of them. At the same time, those categories are necessary to our understanding of very real material histories of oppression and resistance; to teach as if identity is mere figment would render invisible the very real legacies of domination that must be understood if they are to be undone.
Effects of Different Storage on Qualities of Adzuki and Red Kidney Beans
Authors: Wu Shan , Feng Shuo , Kojima Michiyuki
Published: March 2015

This is the first study to report the effects of frozen soil storage on adzuki and red kidney beans. Adzuki and red kidney beans were stored for 15 months in polyethylene or paper bags under three different conditions: natural cold energy storage in frozen soil, storage in a freezer at -20 °C, and storage at a constant temperature of 25 °C. Samples were collected from every treatment group every 3 months, and qualities related to processing (bean paste yield and cooked bean hardness), seed moisture content, one-hundred seed weight, seed density, and sample physical properties (electrical conductivity and soluble solid content) were evaluated. Frozen soil storage resulted in the least deterioration of important qualities in adzuki and red kidney beans. We also showed that the electrical conductivity value and soluble solid content of the liquid used for soaking beans can be used to evaluate the processing suitability of cooked beans.
A Stochastic Frontier Analysis of Technical Efficiency of Maize Production Under Minimum Tillage in Zambia
Authors: Ng'ombe John , Kalinda Thomson
Published: March 2015

Minimum tillage and other conservation agriculture practices are not only associated with income gains but are also claimed to be the panacea to the declining agricultural productivity and soil degradation problems in Africa and across the world. The few studies on technical efficiency related to the agricultural sector performance in Zambia have not attempted to determine how technically efficient smallholder farmers that produce maize under minimum tillage are. This study used stochastic frontier analysis based on both the half-normal and exponential model distributions on 2008 cross-sectional nationally representative data of 160 smallholder maize farm households that adopted minimum tillage in Zambia. Results indicate that maize farmers face increasing returns to scale (1.074) implying that there were opportunities for them to improve their technical efficiency as they were operating in stage I of their production functions. The half-normal and exponential model distributions indicate average technical efficiency scores of 60 and 71.7 percent, respectively. Their respective lowest efficiency scores were 9.3 and 8.5 percent. The highest efficiency scores for the half-normal and exponential model distributions were 89.3 and 90.9 percent. Maximum likelihood estimation results show that marital status, level of education of household head, square of household size, off farm income, agro-ecological region III, distance to vehicular road and access to loans are statistically significant factors that affect technical efficiency of smallholder maize farmers that practice minimum tillage in Zambia. The study calls for increased infrastructural development through construction of improved road network, schools and colleges in remote areas as a means to increasing accesss to knowledge and other agricultural services in order to enhance their technical efficiency levels. It also recommends promotion of minimum tillage practices in recommended agro-ecological regions to improve their technical efficiency. The study further acclaims for increased access to loans by smallholder maize farmers that practice minimum tillage as this would in one way induce them to invest in improved varieties and equipment that would help enhance their technical efficiency in Zambia.
Tracking Homo Oeconomicus: Development of the Neoliberal Beliefs Inventory
Authors: Bay-Cheng Laina Y. , Fitz Caroline C. , Alizaga Natalie M. , Zucker Alyssa N.
Published: March 2015

Researchers across the social sciences are beginning to note that neoliberalism’s influence is no longer restricted to macroeconomic and social policies, but can now be detected in individuals’ behaviors, relationships, perceptions, and self-concept. However, psychologists lack a means of assessing neoliberal beliefs directly. We collected data from three samples of U.S. undergraduates to develop and test a measure of neoliberal ideology, the Neoliberal Beliefs Inventory (NBI). Using first exploratory and then confirmatory factor analysis, we devised a 25-item measure that is both reliable and valid, at least within a particular demographic (i.e., U.S. traditionally-aged undergraduates). The NBI may help psychologists specify and analyze the role of neoliberal ideology in shaping human behavior and functioning.
Análisis documental de Avante, revista de la Sociedad General de Fotógrafos de España (1905-1906)
Authors: Sánchez Vigil Juan Miguel Miguel , Zaldua María Olivera
Published: March 2015

La revista de fotografía Avante, de la que no se conocen ejemplares en los centros de documentación públicos, con excepción del número 1 en la biblioteca del Palacio Real, fue el órgano de difusión de la Sociedad General de Fotógrafos de España, institución surgida de la primera Asamblea de Fotógrafos Profesionales celebrada en Madrid en octubre de 1905. Creada y dirigida por Manuel Compañy, uno de los autores más significativos a finales del siglo XIX y comienzos del XX, sus contenidos no han sido estudiados hasta ahora. Es objeto de este trabajo realizar un análisis documental con el fin de aportar nuevos datos sobre las revistas de fotografía en España y de obtener información para su puesta a disposición de los investigadores sobre la materia. Los resultados son de gran interés en lo que se refiere a los contenidos (textos, ilustraciones y publicidad) y a la función de la revista en relación a la citada Sociedad General de Fotógrafos
Range-dependent flexibility in the acoustic field of view of echolocating porpoises (Phocoena phocoena)
Authors: Wisniewska Danuta M , Ratcliffe John M , Beedholm Kristian , Christensen Christian B , Johnson Mark , Koblitz Jens C , Wahlberg Magnus , Madsen Peter T
Published: March 2015

Toothed whales use sonar to detect, locate, and track prey. They adjust emitted sound intensity, auditory sensitivity and click rate to target range, and terminate prey pursuits with high-repetition-rate, low-intensity buzzes. However, their narrow acoustic field of view (FOV) is considered stable throughout target approach, which could facilitate prey escape at close-range. Here, we show that, like some bats, harbour porpoises can broaden their biosonar beam during the terminal phase of attack but, unlike bats, maintain the ability to change beamwidth within this phase. Based on video, MRI, and acoustic-tag recordings, we propose this flexibility is modulated by the melon and implemented to accommodate dynamic spatial relationships with prey and acoustic complexity of surroundings. Despite independent evolution and different means of sound generation and transmission, whales and bats adaptively change their FOV, suggesting that beamwidth flexibility has been an important driver in the evolution of echolocation for prey tracking.
Chorionic Bump in Pregnant Patients and Associated Live Birth Rate
Authors: Arleo Elizabeth Kagan , Dunning Allison , Troiano Robert N.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

A chorionic bump on first‐trimester sonography has been considered a risk factor for nonviability in pregnant patients with this rare finding, although the strength of this association has recently been questioned. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to summarize the association between a chorionic bump and nonviability.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed. We included all studies except case reports. A meta‐analysis was performed using a random‐effects model.

Results

After screening 5 studies, 2 studies with a total of 67 patients met inclusion criteria. These were combined with a study (n = 52) from our institution. Overall, the live birth rate was 62% (74 of 119). Fifty‐one chorionic bump pregnancies were otherwise normal (ie, pregnancies in which a gestational sac, a yolk sac, and an embryo with a heartbeat was seen at some point), and in this subset, the live birth rate was 83% (42 of 51). There was no significant relationship found between vaginal bleeding and live birth (P = .857); there was no significant difference in bump volume between live birth and no live birth (P = .198); and for the subset analysis of pooled odds ratios for the relationship between live birth and history of infertility, there was no significant relationship found (P = .186).

Conclusions

A chorionic bump remains a risk factor for nonviability in pregnancy; however, if the pregnancy is otherwise normal, then most result in live birth.
Sonographic Characteristics of the Uterus in Asymptomatic Women After Second‐Trimester Medical Termination of Pregnancy
Authors: Cheung Ka Wang , Ngu Siew-Fei , Cheung Vincent Y. T.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sonographic characteristics of the uterus after apparently uncomplicated second‐trimester medical termination of pregnancy and to follow the evolution of these findings until the return of menstruation.

Methods

Twenty‐three women who requested termination of pregnancy at gestational ages between 14 and 20 weeks were recruited. Uterine characteristics were measured by 2‐ and 3‐dimensional transvaginal with or without transabdominal sonography. The uterine anteroposterior diameter, length, and width, endometrial thickness, presence of an endometrial mass, intrauterine vascularity, and endometrial volume were measured within 24 hours, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks after termination, and during the postmenstrual phase.

Results

The mean uterine anteroposterior diameter, uterine length, uterine width, endometrial thickness, and endometrial volume ± SD deceased gradually from 66.1 ± 9.7 to 40.9 ± 5.3 mm, 131.4 ± 14.7 to 81.3 ± 13.8 mm, 84.6 ± 10.3 to 54.2 ± 7.6 mm, 25.6 ± 8.1 to 4.5 ± 2.6 mm, and 39.4 ± 22.6 to 2.5 ± 2.1 mL, respectively, from within 24 hours after termination to the postmenstrual phase. Endometrial masses were identified in 8 women (34.8%) within 4 weeks after termination, which could persist for up to 8 weeks. However, all endometrial masses resolved after menstruation. Minimal and moderate endometrial vascularity was detectable in up to 21.7% after termination; none was detectable in any women after menstruation.

Conclusions

This study provides information on the normal sonographic parameters of the uterus after second‐trimester medical termination of pregnancy, which has been lacking in the literature. Also, our findings suggest that all endometrial masses regress with time; therefore, asymptomatic women with an incidental finding of an endometrial mass can be followed without the need for an immediate intervention.
Diagnostic Influence of Routine Point‐of‐Care Pocket‐size Ultrasound Examinations Performed by Medical Residents
Authors: Andersen Garrett N. , Graven Torbjørn , Skjetne Kyrre , Mjølstad Ole C. , Kleinau Jens O. , Olsen Øystein , Haugen Bjørn O. , Dalen Håvard
Published: March 2015

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the potential benefit of adding goal‐directed ultrasound examinations performed by on‐call medical residents using a pocket‐size imaging device in patients admitted to a medical department.

Methods

A total of 992 emergency admissions to the medical department at a nonuniversity hospital in Norway were included. Patients admitted on dates with an on‐call medical resident randomized to use a pocket‐size imaging device were eligible for pocket‐size cardiac and abdominal ultrasound examinations or standard care. The cardiac examination included estimation of right and left ventricular sizes and global systolic function and regional left ventricular systolic function, evaluation for pleural and pericardial effusion, and valvular disease. The abdominal examination looked for signs of gross abnormalities of the liver, gallbladder, abdominal aorta, inferior vena cava, and urinary system. Six of 12 medical residents with limited ultrasound experience were randomized to perform the examinations. Diagnostic corrections were made, and findings were confirmed by reference standard diagnostics.

Results

A total of 199 patients were examined. Median times used were 5.7 minutes for the cardiac examination and 4.7 minutes for the abdominal examination. In 13 patients (6.5%), the examination resulted in a major change in the primary diagnosis. In 21 patients (10.5%), the diagnosis was verified, and in 48 (24.0%), an additional important diagnosis was made.

Conclusions

By implementing pocket‐size ultrasound examinations that took less than 11 minutes to the usual care, we corrected, verified, or added important diagnoses in more than 1 of 3 emergency medical admissions. Point‐of‐care examinations with a pocket‐size imaging device increased medical residents' diagnostic accuracy and capability.
Feasibility and Reliability of Quantifying Passive Muscle Stiffness in Young Children by Using Shear Wave Ultrasound Elastography
Authors: Brandenburg Joline E. , Eby Sarah F. , Song Pengfei , Zhao Heng , Landry Bradford W. , Kingsley-Berg Shirley , Bamlet William R. , Chen Shigao , Sieck Gary C. , An Kai-Nan
Published: March 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and reliability of passive muscle stiffness measurements in children by shear wave ultrasound elastography.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cross‐sectional study quantifying the passive stiffness of bilateral lateral gastrocnemius muscles during passive stretching in 20 typically developing children (age range, 2.0–12.6 years). Data collected included passive stiffness of the lateral gastrocnemius muscle (shear modulus in kilopascals) at 4 positions of progressive passive foot dorsiflexion, demographic characteristics of the participants, and comparison of demographic characteristics with the shear modulus.

Results

Passive stiffness increased with increasing stretching (mean [SD] range of stiffness, 7.1 [2.0] to 36.2 [22.0] kPa). For all 4 foot positions, no significant difference was found between right and left legs (range, P = .42 to P = .98) or between the sexes (range, P = .28 to P > .99). No correlation of passive muscle stiffness with age, body mass index, or ankle range of motion was found. The reliability of measurements was good to excellent (mean [95% confidence interval] range of reliability, 0.67 [0.44–0.83] to 0.80 [0.63–0.90]).

Conclusions

Measurements of passive stiffness of the lateral gastrocnemius muscle are feasible and reliable in children as young as 2 years. Because this study found no significant difference between sex and the side tested in this age group, future studies involving children of this age range may not need to be stratified on the basis of these parameters. Defining normal passive muscle stiffness in children is critical for identifying and understanding the implications of abnormal passive muscle stiffness in children with neuromuscular disorders.
Sonographic Evaluation of Common Peroneal Neuropathy in Patients With Foot Drop
Authors: Grant Thomas H. , Omar Imran M. , Dumanian Gregory A. , Pomeranz Christy B. , Lewis Vanessa A.
Published: March 2015

The common peroneal nerve arises from the sciatic nerve and is subject to a variety of abnormalities. Although diagnosis is often is based on the clinical findings and electrodiagnostic tests, high‐resolution sonography has an increasing role in determining the type and location of common peroneal nerve abnormalities and other peripheral nerve disorders. This article reviews the normal sonographic appearance of the common peroneal nerve and the findings in 21 patients with foot drop related to common peroneal neuropathy.
Successful clozapine rechallenge following clozapine-induced neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Authors: Ross Clint
Published: March 2015

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potential life-threatening adverse effect of antipsychotics. Characteristic signs and symptoms of NMS include hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic instability. Treatment of NMS includes discontinuation of any antipsychotic or other potentially offending agents. This report describes the details of a patient diagnosed with NMS induced by clozapine with subsequent successful rechallenge. Given limited therapeutic options for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia, clinicians should be cognizant of potential risks but aware of the possibility of successful rechallenge with clozapine.
The impact of splay faults on fluid flow, solute transport, and pore pressure distribution in subduction zones: A case study offshore the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Authors: Lauer Rachel M. , Saffer Demian M.
Published: March 2015

Observations of seafloor seeps on the continental slope of many subduction zones illustrate that splay faults represent a primary hydraulic connection to the plate boundary at depth, carry deeply sourced fluids to the seafloor, and are in some cases associated with mud volcanoes. However, the role of these structures in forearc hydrogeology remains poorly quantified. We use a 2‐D numerical model that simulates coupled fluid flow and solute transport driven by fluid sources from tectonically driven compaction and smectite transformation to investigate the effects of permeable splay faults on solute transport and pore pressure distribution. We focus on the Nicoya margin of Costa Rica as a case study, where previous modeling and field studies constrain flow rates, thermal structure, and margin geology. In our simulations, splay faults accommodate up to 33% of the total dewatering flux, primarily along faults that outcrop within 25 km of the trench. The distribution and fate of dehydration‐derived fluids is strongly dependent on thermal structure, which determines the locus of smectite transformation. In simulations of a cold end‐member margin, smectite transformation initiates 30 km from the trench, and 64% of the dehydration‐derived fluids are intercepted by splay faults and carried to the middle and upper slope, rather than exiting at the trench. For a warm end‐member, smectite transformation initiates 7 km from the trench, and the associated fluids are primarily transmitted to the trench via the décollement (50%), and faults intercept only 21% of these fluids. For a wide range of splay fault permeabilities, simulated fluid pressures are near lithostatic where the faults intersect overlying slope sediments, providing a viable mechanism for the formation of mud volcanoes.
Ice thickness effects on Aquarius brightness temperatures over Antarctica
Authors: Pablos Miriam , Piles María , González‐Gambau Verónica , Camps Adriano , Vall‐llossera Mercè
Published: March 2015

The Dome‐C region, in the East Antarctic Plateau, is regarded as an ideal natural laboratory for calibration/validation of space‐borne microwave radiometers. At L‐band, the thermal stability of this region has been confirmed by several experimental campaigns. However, its use as an independent external calibration target has recently been questioned due to some spatial inhomogeneities and seasonal effects revealed in the brightness temperatures (TB) acquired in this area. This paper shows the observed relationship, from exploratory research, between the Antarctic ice thickness spatial variations and the measured Aquarius TB changes. A 3‐months no‐daylight period during the Austral winter has been analyzed. Four transects have been defined over East Antarctica covering areas with different ice thickness variations and ranges. The theoretical L‐band penetration depth has been estimated to understand the possible contributions to the measured signal. A good agreement has been observed between Aquarius TB and ice thickness variations over the whole Antarctica, with correlations of ∼0.6–0.7. The two variables show a linear trend with slopes of ∼8.3–9.5 K/km. No correlation has been observed with the subglacial bedrock. The maximum L‐band penetration depth has been estimated to be ∼1–1.5 km. Results are therefore consistent: the spatial variations found on Aquarius TB are not related to the emissivity of the bedrock, which lies deeper. This study provides evidence that new L‐band satellite observations could contribute to further our understanding of Antarctic geophysical processes.