bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Plasma Female Sex Hormones on Gingivitis in Pregnancy: A Clinicobiochemical Study
Authors: Prakash Sandeep , Nayak Rashmita , Choudhury Gopal Krishna , Deshpande Sumit , Ashok KP , Spoorthi BR
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To correlate the changes in the level of female sex hormones (progesterone, estrogen) in plasma with the changes in severity of gingivitis in various trimesters of pregnancy till the postparturition.

Materials and methods

This study comprised of 20 pregnant women with good oral hygiene who were followed up in each trimester till 3rd month of postpartum by screening their oral hygiene status following OHI-S index by Greene and Vermillion. Clinically to correlate gingivitis, gingival index by Loe and Sillness was carried out in each trimester till postpartum. For hormonal assay, blood sampling by venipuncture was done and quantative analysis of the hormones was done by ELISA test.

Results and conclusion

The severity of gingivitis gradually increased and reached its peak in 3rd trimester followed by sudden decline in the severity in postpartum which correlated with gradual increase in the plasma level of progesterone and estrogen levels to reach their peak in the 3rd trimester and sudden fall after the postpartum. This study shows the role of female sex hormones in aggravating gingivitis to its peak in the 3rd trimester, even though the oral hygiene remains fairly good constantly.

Clinical significance

This study signifies the gingivitis status during different trimesters of pregnancy and postpartum indicating the general practitioner to take appropriate oral hygiene measures.

How to cite this article

Nayak R, Choudhury GK, Prakash S, Deshpande S, Ashok KP, Spoorthi BR. The Role of Plasma Female Sex Hormones on Gingivitis in Pregnancy: A Clinicobiochemical Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6): 760-763.
Efficacy of Ocimum sanctum for Relieving Stress: A Preclinical Study
Authors: Manjunath SM , Bathala Lakshmana Rao , Rao Ch Vekateswara , Vinuta S , Vemulapalli Raghu
Published: January 2013

History and objective

The aim of this study was to study the anxiolytic effects of Ocimum sanctum stress-induced anxiety.

Materials and methods

The study was carried out using male albino rats (200 ± 50 gm), male albino mice (25 ± 100) the effect of O. sanctum evaluated for anxiety and depression using forced swim test FST and rotarod test.

Results

Restraint stress (3 hours/day for six consecutive days) induced a significant reduction. It was significantly decreases the mobility period during stress. The standard deviation values are 14.4 and 9.26 and is statistically significant (p = 0.001). In rotarod test, (a) increased latency and (b) decreased ambulation and rearing were also reversed by O. sanctum. A significant increase in immobility period was observed in FST and TST after restraint stress. O. sanctum and C. sinensis significantly reduced the immobility times of rats in FST and TST.

Conclusion

Ocimum sanctum possess significant antistress activity but the magnitude and efficacy for relieving stress is less, when compare to standard anxiolytic agent, i.e. Alprazolam.

How to cite this article

Bathala LR, Rao CV, Manjunath SM, Vinuta S, Vemulapalli R. Efficacy of Ocimum sanctum for Relieving Stress: A Preclinical Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):782-786.
Clinical and Radiological Evaluation of Human Osseous Defects (Mandibular Grade II Furcation Involvement) Treated with Bioresorbable Memberane: Vicryl Mesh
Authors: Ramya R , Balusubramanya KV , Govindaraj SJ
Published: January 2013

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate clinical and radiological healing effects after treatment of class II furcation defects using bioresorbable periodontal mesh barriers.

Materials and methods

The patients for the following study were selected from Outpatient, Department of Periodontics, College of Dental Sciences, Davanagere, Karnataka.

Inclusion criteria:

1. Patients with age group between 18 and 60 years.

2. Patients who were nonsmokers.

3. Patients who had not undergone any type of periodontal therapy 6 months prior to initial examination.

4. Patients diagnosed as advanced periodontitis having mandibular grade II furcation involvement (Glickman 1953) clinically and radiologically.

Exclusion criteria:

1. Patients who required antibiotic prophylaxis.

2. Patients allergic to tetracycline and/ or chlorhexidine.

3. Pregnant and lactating mother.

4. Patient showing unacceptable oral hygiene during presurgical (phase 1) therapy.

Results

In this study clinical parameters were compared and attempt was made to compare the results radiographically too, with the limitations, the present study showed that the use of resorbable periodontal mesh barriers for GTR therapy at class II furcations resulted in reduction of furcation involvement.

Conclusion

Therefore it appears that a patient with class II furcations involvement benefits from barrier treatment, because results are superior to conventional treatment without barriers.

Clinical significance

The present study was taken up to evaluate the clinical effects of GTR therapy of class II furcations using bioresorbable periodontal mesh barriers.

How to cite this article

Balusubramanya KV, Ramya R, Govindaraj SJ. Clinical and Radiological Evaluation of Human Osseous Defects (Mandibular Grade II Furcation Involvement) Treated with Bioresorbable Memberane: Vicryl Mesh. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):806-811.
A Comparative Evaluation of Curing Depth and Compressive Strength of Dental Composite Cured with Halogen Light Curing Unit and Blue Light Emitting Diode: An in vitro Study
Authors: Divyashree R , Gururaj M , Kumar CN Vijaya , Paul Joseph , Krishnaprasada L
Published: January 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the curing depth and compressive strength of dental composite using halogen light curing unit and light emitting diode light curing unit.

Materials and methods

Eighty cylindrical composite specimens were prepared using posterior composite P60(3M). Forty specimens, out of which 20 samples (group A) cured with halogen light and 20 samples (group B) cured using light emitting diode (LED) light were checked for curing depth according to ISO 4049. Remaining 40 samples out of which 20 samples (group I) cured using halogen light and 20 samples (group II) cured using LED light were checked for compressive strength using Instron universal testing machine.

Results

Twenty samples (group A) cured with halogen light showed better curing depth than 20 samples (group B) cured with LED light. Twenty samples (group I) cured with halogen light showed almost similar results as 20 samples (group II) cured with LED light for compressive strength.

Conclusion

Halogen light commonly used to cure composite resin have greater depth of cure, when compared to LED light, while both the lights produced compressive strength which is almost similar.

Clinical significance

Lower depth of cure with the LED unit, compared to the QTH unit, is associated with different light scattering due to differences in spectral emission. LED technology differs from QTH by the spectral emission that favorably matches the absorption spectrum of camphorquinone.

How to cite this article

Kumar CNV, Gururaj M, Paul J, Krishnaprasada L, Divyashree R. A Comparative Evaluation of Curing Depth and Compressive Strength of Dental Composite cured with Halogen Light Curing Unit and Blue Light Emitting Diode: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):834-837.
Effect of Trichloromethane on the Bond Strengths between Acrylic Teeth and Different Heat-cured Denture Bases: A Comparative Study
Authors: Rao N Venugopal , Naidu D Lakshmayya , Bharat JSV , Reddy M Venugopal , Naveen P
Published: January 2013

Aim

This study is to evaluate the role of 1:1 v/v 30% trichloromethane and monomer solvent in enhancing the durability of bonding between cross-linked acrylic teeth and different heatcured denture bases with or without mechanical preparations made on ridge lap portion of the artificial teeth.

Materials and methods

Two high impact denture base resin materials (Trevalon HI, DeTrey, UK, and DPI Tuff, Mumbai) and one nonhigh impact denture base resin material (DPI Quick Set, Mumbai) were selected to form three groups. Each group contains 30 specimens prepared by five different methods. A mixture of 30% trichloromethane and monomer, mixed in the ratio of 1:1 and applied for 1 minute on the ridge lap area of experimental specimens of methods—B, C, D and E (Specimens of method—A being control group, where no alterations were made at the ridge lap portion of acrylic teeth) before curing. Hounsfield universal testing machine is employed to evaluate the comparative bond strengths.

Results

No significant difference was seen in bond strengths between specimens of experimental methods in all groups. When each group was assessed separately method B specimens in group 1 (739.2 N), group 2 (758 N) and method D specimens in group 3 (729 N) showed highest mean bond strengths. Control group specimens showed the least bond strength (400-460 N) in all groups with more adhesive failures.

Conclusion

Ridge lap portion of the specimens treated with chemical solvent as in method B showed increased bond strength in groups 1 and 2. Hence, this is a preferred method.

Clinical significance

Evaluation of effect of different chemical and mechanical preparations at the ridge lap areas of acrylic teeth before acrylization helps the clinician and technician to overcome the problem of debonding of teeth from denture bases and in turn provides better quality prosthesis to the patient.

How to cite this article

Bharat JSV, Naidu DL, Reddy MV, Naveen P, Rao NV. Effect of Trichloromethane on the Bond Strengths between Acrylic Teeth and Different Heat-cured Denture Bases: A Comparative Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):850-855.
Evaluation of Knowledge and Experience among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons about Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Boddu Suprakash , Prathigudupu Raja Satish , Somuri Anand Vijay , Lingamaneni Krishna Prasad , Rao Prashant , Kuchimanchi Phani Kumar
Published: January 2013

Objective

This study was undertaken to assess the level knowledge and experience about CPR among oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Materials and methods

In a cross-sectional study, a total of 96 professionals (31-PGs, 65-MDS staff) were surveyed using a self-administered structured questionnaire pretested through a pilot survey. The data was analyzed using the SPSS version 15.0. The Student's t-test and ANOVA test were used as test of significance. The level of significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

In the present study, 78% of oral surgeons had received training about CPR but only 52.0% have proper practical knowledge of performing it. As there were some cases due to CPA in dental practice even then half of the participants take history of patients regarding this. A significant difference was found according to designation with PGs having lower mean scores. A positive linear correlation was found between years of experience and knowledge about CPR (Pearson's correlation, r = 0.613, p = 0.00).

Clinical significance

The present findings showed that practical knowledge of performing CPR is still low and half of them still do not take history regarding this. So there is need for more knowledge about CPR through CDE programs.

How to cite this article

Boddu S, Prathigudupu RS, Somuri AV, Lingamaneni KP, Rao P, Kuchimanchi PK. Evaluation of Knowledge and Experience among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons about Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):878-881.
Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis with Distinctive Facies
Authors: Prasad Sunkara Shree Ramalinga , Radharani Chitturi , Kumar SV Kiran , Sinha Soumya
Published: January 2013

Hereditary gingival enlargement also known as gingivitis or familial elephantiasis is a rare type of gingival enlargement. It appears as an isolated autosomal dominant disorder or maybe associated with other conditions. Oral manifestations may vary from minimal involvement of only tuberosity area and the buccal gingiva around the lower molars to a generalized enlargement inhibiting eruption of the teeth. This paper discusses the case of a 13-year-old female patient with distinctive facial characteristics who presented to the department with a chief complaint of swollen gums since 1 year. She had severe diffuse gingival enlargement of the maxilla and mandible. Diagnosis was made based upon clinical examination and family history. Quadrant wise internal bevel gingivectomy procedure was done for the patient to restore her functional and esthetic needs.

How to cite this article

Prasad SSR, Radharani C, Sinha S, Kumar SVK. Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis with Distinctive Facies. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):892-896.
Condylar Hyperplasia
Authors: Chandra Subhash , Anitha G , Shankar Uma , Raju BHV Rama Krishnam , Srikanth K Venkata , Laheji Afshan
Published: January 2013

Condylar hyperplasia (CH), as the name suggests, affects mandibular condyle producing overgrowth of condyle, which is characterized by a slowly progressive, usually unilateral enlargement of the mandible, facial asymmetry and deviation of chin to the unaffected side. The condition is known to be selflimiting, usually begins around puberty, but may not be recognized until later in life. This paper reports a case of severe facial asymmetry secondary to CH, which was successfully treated by high condylectomy only.

How to cite this article

Shankar U, Chandra S, Raju BHVRK, Anitha G, Srikanth KV, Laheji A. Condylar Hyperplasia. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):914-917.
Adenoameloblastoma: A Dilemma in Diagnosis
Authors: Shankar Uma , Radhika A , Laheji Afshan , Sakharde S , Chidambaram S , Gondhalekar Rajashri R
Published: January 2013

Adenoameloblastoma or adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) is an uncommon, benign, epithelial lesion of odontogenic origin. It is a rare benign odontogenic tumor of the jaw affecting mostly young individuals with predominance in female. It occurs mostly in maxillary anterior region. On the basis of clinical and radiographical picture, it is often misdiagnosed as an odontogenic cyst.

We report on a rare case of a 13-year-old male patient with a follicular variety of AOT in mandibular left anterior region which is unusual for the same. Clinically and radiographically, the lesion was mimicking as a dentigerous cyst. Later surgical enucleation was done and specimen was sent for microscopic examination and was diagnosed as AOT along with a dentinoid-like deposits which is a rare finding.

How to cite this article

Laheji A, Sakharde S, Chidambaram S, Gondhalekar RR, Shankar U, Radhika A. Adenoameloblastoma: A Dilemma in Diagnosis. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6): 925-929.
Socket Preservation with Alloplast: Discussion and a Descriptive Case
Authors: Mahesh Lanka , Narayan TV , Bali Praful , Shukla Sagrika
Published: January 2013

Soon after tooth extraction the bone resorption takes place reducing the height and width of alveolar ridge. This produces an altered morphology of the bone unfavorable for implant placement and implant placement becomes impossible without surgical correction. Socket grafting maintains and preserves ridge for implant placement.

How to cite this article

Mahesh L, Narayan TV, Bali P, Shukla S. Socket Preservation with Alloplast: Discussion and a Descriptive Case. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):934-937.
Double power-law spectra of energetic electrons in the Earth magnetotail
Authors: Artemyev A. V. , Hoshino M. , Lutsenko V. N. , Petrukovich A. A. , Imada S. , Zelenyi L. M.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. In this paper, we consider electron acceleration in the vicinity of X-line and corresponding formation of energy spectra. We develop an analytical model including the effect of the electron trapping by electrostatic fields and surfing acceleration. Speiser, Fermi and betatron mechanisms of acceleration are also taken into account. Analytical estimates are verified by the numerical integration of electron trajectories. The surfing mechanism and adiabatic heating are responsible for the formation of the double power-law spectrum in agreement with the previous studies. The energy of the spectrum knee is about ~150 keV for typical conditions of the Earth magnetotail. We compare theoretical results with the spacecraft observations of electron double power-law spectra in the magnetotail and demonstrate that the theory is able to describe typical energy of the spectra knee. We also estimate the role of relativistic effects and magnetic field fluctuations on the electron acceleration: the acceleration is more stable for relativistic electrons, while fluctuations of the magnetic field cannot significantly decrease the gained energy for typical magnetospheric conditions.
Description of the biogeochemical features of the subtropical southeastern Atlantic and the Southern Ocean south of South Africa during the austral summer of the International Polar Year
Authors: Le Moigne F. A. C. , Boye M. , Masson A. , Corvaisier R. , Grossteffan E. , Guéneugues A. , Pondaven P.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Meridional and vertical distributions of several biogeochemical parameters were studied along a section in the southeastern Atlantic and the Southern Ocean south of South Africa during the austral summer 2008 of the International Polar Year to characterize the biogeochemical provinces and to assess the seasonal net diatom production. Based on analyses of macro-nutrients, ammonium (NH4), chlorophyll a, (Chl a), phaeopigments, biogenic silica (BSi), particulate inorganic carbon (PIC), and particulate organic carbon and nitrogen (POC and PON, respectively), four biogeochemical domains were distinguished along the section: the subtropical Atlantic, the confluence zone of the subtropical and subantarctic domains, the Polar Frontal Zone (PFZ) in the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), and the north-eastern branch of the Weddell Gyre. The subtropical region displayed extremely low nutrient concentrations featuring oligotrophic conditions, and sub-surface maxima of Chl a and phaeopigments never exceeded 0.5 µg L−1 and 0.25 µg L−1, respectively. The anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies crossed in the Cape Basin were characterized by a deepening and a rise, respectively, of the nutrients isoclines. The confluence zone of the subtropical domain and the northern side of the ACC within the subantarctic domain displayed remnant nitrate and phosphate levels, whereas silicate concentrations kept to extremely low levels. In this area, Chl a level of 0.4–0.5 µg L−1 distributed homogenously within the mixed layer, and POC and PON accumulated to values up to 10 µM and 1.5 µM, respectively, indicative of biomass accumulation along the confluence zone during the late productive period. In the ACC domain, the Polar Frontal Zone was marked by a post-bloom of diatoms that extended beyond the Polar Front (PF) during this late summer condition, as primarily evidenced by the massive depletion of silicic acid in the surface waters. The accumulation of NH4 to values up to 1.25 µM at 100 m depth centred on the PF and the accumulation of BSi up to 0.5 µM in the surface waters of the central part of the PFZ also featured a late stage of the seasonal diatom bloom. The silica daily net production rate based on the seasonal depletion of silicic acid was estimated to be 11.9 ± 6.5 mmol m−2 d−1 in the domain of the vast diatom post-bloom, agreeing well with the previously recorded values in this province. The Weddell Gyre occasionally displayed relative surface depletion of silicic acid, suggesting a late stage of a relatively minor diatom bloom possibly driven by iceberg drifting releases of iron. In this domain the estimated range of silica daily net production rate (e.g. 21.1 ± 8.8 mmol m−2 d−1) is consistent with previous studies, but was not significantly higher than that in the Polar Front region.
A Last Glacial Maximum world-ocean simulation at eddy-permitting resolution – Part 1: Experimental design and basic evaluation
Authors: Ballarotta M. , Brodeau L. , Brandefelt J. , Lundberg P. , Döös K.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Most state-of-the-art climate models include a coarsely resolved oceanic component, which has difficulties in capturing detailed dynamics, and therefore eddy-permitting/eddy-resolving simulations have been developed to reproduce the observed World Ocean. In this study, an eddy-permitting numerical experiment is conducted to simulate the global ocean state for a period of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM, ~ 26 500 to 19 000 yr ago) and to investigate the improvements due to taking into account these higher spatial scales. The ocean general circulation model is forced by a 49-yr sample of LGM atmospheric fields constructed from a quasi-equilibrated climate-model simulation. The initial state and the bottom boundary condition conform to the Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project (PMIP) recommendations. Before evaluating the model efficiency in representing the paleo-proxy reconstruction of the surface state, the LGM experiment is in this first part of the investigation, compared with a present-day eddy-permitting hindcast simulation as well as with the available PMIP results. It is shown that the LGM eddy-permitting simulation is consistent with the quasi-equilibrated climate-model simulation, but large discrepancies are found with the PMIP model analyses, probably due to the different equilibration states. The strongest meridional gradients of the sea-surface temperature are located near 40° N and S, this due to particularly large North-Atlantic and Southern-Ocean sea-ice covers. These also modify the locations of the convection sites (where deep-water forms) and most of the LGM Conveyor Belt circulation consequently takes place in a thinner layer than today. Despite some discrepancies with other LGM simulations, a glacial state is captured and the eddy-permitting simulation undertaken here yielded a useful set of data for comparisons with paleo-proxy reconstructions.
A Last Glacial Maximum World-Ocean simulation at eddy-permitting resolution – Part 2: Confronting the paleo-proxy data
Authors: Ballarotta M. , Döös K. , Lundberg P. , Brodeau L. , Brandefelt J.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Previous investigations concerning the design of an eddy-permitting LGM oceanic simulation are here extended with focus on whether this type of simulation is capable of improving the numerical results with regard to the available paleo-proxy reconstructions. Consequently, an eddy-permitting and two coarse-grid simulations of the same LGM period are confronted with a dataset from the Multiproxy Approach for the Reconstruction of the Glacial Ocean Sea Surface Temperatures (MARGO SSTs) and a number of sea-ice reconstructions. From a statistical analysis it was found that the eddy-permitting simulation does not significantly improve the SST representation with regard to the paleo-reconstructions. The western boundary currents are better resolved in the high-resolution experiment than in the coarse simulations, but, although these more detailed SST structures yield a locally improved consistency between modelled predictions and proxies, they do not contribute significantly to the global statistical score. As in the majority of the PMIP2 simulations, the modelled sea-ice conditions are still inconsistent with the paleo-reconstructions, probably due to the choice of the model equilibrium.
High-fidelity subsurface thermal model as part of a Martian atmospheric column model
Authors: Paton M. D. , Harri A.-M. , Mäkinen T. , Savijärvi H.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. As the Martian atmosphere is observed in ever greater detail, more realistic computer models are required to interpret these measurements. Physical exchange processes between the atmosphere's lower boundary and the surface are often simplified. This is because the atmospheric calculations can describe the behaviour of the atmosphere accurately in many cases and simplifying the boundaries saves computing resources. However, the vertical heterogeneity of the subsurface (such as the presence of dust and ice layers) will interact via heat and mass transfer with the atmosphere. Here a new realistic numerical thermal conductivity scheme is introduced for use with a 1-D atmospheric column model useful for investigating the subsurface for layered material and to provide more accurate modelling of the Martian atmosphere. The model with the updated scheme produces results that are identical to the previous versions of the model in identical (non-layered) conditions. The updated model fits well to Viking 1 temperature data from the atmosphere using realistic thermal parameters. Introducing layered material, with different thermal properties, produces noticeable changes in the maximum and diurnal temperatures when changing the thickness of its top layer. The time of maximum surface temperature is only significantly changed when the thickness of the top layer is a moderate fraction of the top layer's skin depth.
Assessing hydrological model behaviors by intercomparison of the simulated stream flow compositions: case study in a steep forest watershed in Taiwan
Authors: Huang J.-C. , Lee T.-Y. , Lee J.-Y. , Hsu S.-C. , Kao S.-J. , Chang F.-J.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. The accurate stream flow composition simulated by different models is rarely discussed, and few studies addressed the model behaviors affected by the model structures. This study compared the simulated stream flow composition derived from two models, namely HBV and TOPMODEL. A total of 23 storms with a wide rainfall spectrum were utilized and independent geochemical data (to derive the stream composition using end-member mixing analysis, EMMA) were introduced. Results showed that both hydrological models generally perform stream discharge satisfactory in terms of the Nash efficiency coefficient, correlation coefficient, and discharge volume. However, the three simulated flows (surface flow, interflow, and base flow) derived from the two models were different with the change of storm intensity and duration. Both simulated surface flows showed the same patterns. The HBV simulated base flow dramatically increased with the increase of storm duration. However, the TOP-derived base flow remained stable. Meanwhile, the two models showed contrasting behaviors in the interflow. HBV prefers to generate less interflow but percolates more to the base flow to match the stream flow, which implies that this model might be suited for thin soil layer. The use of the models should consider more environmental background data into account. Compared with the EMMA-derived flows, both models showed a significant 2 to 4 h time lag, indicating that the base-flow responses were faster than the models represented. Our study suggested that model intercomparison under a wide spectrum of rainstorms and with independent validation data (geochemical data) is a good means of studying the model behaviors. Rethinking the characterization of the model structure and the watershed characteristics is necessary in selecting the more appropriate hydrological model.
Preliminary hazard assessment and site characterization of Meşelik campus area, Eskişehir-Turkey
Authors: Orhan A. , Turkoz M. , Tosun H.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Limited knowledge of ground conditions, such as geotechnical parameters, is one of the main causes of foundation failure. Unknown ground conditions can also cause additional burden costs. Due to lack of geotechnical parameters in foundation soil, some problems can be observed during and after the construction. In this study, a comprehensive field study was conducted to make a preliminary hazard assessment on the Meşelik campus area, Eskişehir, Turkey. In this context, the experimental studies were performed in two stages. In the first stage, boreholes were drilled in the field; a standard penetration test (SPT) was performed and disturbed/undisturbed samples were collected from certain levels. In the second stage, laboratory tests were performed in order to identify and classify the samples. Unconfined compression strength and triaxial compression tests were conducted on undisturbed samples for determining the engineering characteristics. XRD (X-ray diffraction) tests were performed and the swelling potential of the samples were evaluated. The liquefaction potential of the area was also assessed on a SPT-based method. Thus, the geotechnical parameters and the liquefaction potential of the sub-surface in the study area were thoroughly analyzed and presented to be used for further studies.
Brief communication "Landslide Early Warning System: toolbox and general concepts"
Authors: Intrieri E. , Gigli G. , Casagli N. , Nadim F.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. We define landslide Early Warning Systems and present practical guidelines to assist end-users with limited experience in the design of landslide Early Warning Systems (EWSs). In particular, two flow chart-based tools coming from the results of the SafeLand project (7th Framework Program) have been created to make them as simple and general as possible and in compliance with a variety of landslide types and settings at single slope scale. We point out that it is not possible to cover all the real landslide early warning situations that might occur, therefore it will be necessary for end-users to adapt the procedure to local peculiarities of the locations where the landslide EWS will be operated.
La problemática del patrimonio digital: El caso de Costa Rica
Authors: Rivas Fernández José Bernal
Published: January 2013

En este artículo se analiza la problemática a la que se ve enfrentada la producción de documentos en soporte digital, a raíz de las últimas tendencias en cuanto al gobierno electrónico que plantea nuevos retos para los archivos y para el acceso a la información contenida en este tipo de soporte. Para ello se hace un breve repaso al caso de Costa Rica, donde ya se han producido algunos efectos en cuanto a la protección del patrimonio digital especialmente por el impacto de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación.
Comportamento informacional em teses e dissertações na ciência da informação no Brasil entre 2007-2012: revisão de literatura
Authors: Taga Vitor , Blattmann Ursula
Published: January 2013

Estudos sobre comportamento informacional têm atraído o interesse de diversas áreas do conhecimento, entre elas a Ciência da Informação. Realizou-se uma pesquisa documental exaustiva em âmbito brasileiro, das teses e dissertações apresentadas nos onze Programas de Pós-Graduação de Ciência da Informação, defendidas no período de 2007 a abril de 2012. Foi identificado um total de 465 dissertações e 157 teses publicadas no respectivo período. Ao aplicar a escolha dos seguintes termos no título e palavras-chave: Comportamento Informacional; Comportamento de Busca da Informação; Necessidade de Informação; Estudo de Usuários; Busca da Informação; Acesso à informação; Uso da Informação; Necessidade, Busca, Acesso e Uso da Informação; Sense-Making; Tomada de decisão; e, Recuperação da Informação obteve-se para a análise 88 dissertações e 17 teses. Os termos com maior ocorrência no título foram: Tomada de Decisão (11), Comportamento Informacional (10) e Recuperação da Informação (10). Cabe salientar que, nas palavras-chave a Recuperação da Informação (49) teve a maior ocorrência entre os termos, seguida de Estudo de Usuários (19), Comportamento informacional (15), Necessidade de Informação (12), e Tomada de Decisão (10). A média de 19 documentos publicados por ano entre 2007 e 2010. O estudo identificou os autores, os orientadores e gerou um grafo no qual se percebe o posicionamento central de seis orientadores: Ricardo Barbosa (UFMG), Mônica Erichsen Nassif Borges (UFMG), Murilo Bastos da Cunha (UNB), Emir José Suaiden (UNB), Helen de Castro Silva Casarin (UNESP), Isa Maria Freire (UFF / UFPB). A temática comportamento informacional aparece com maior ocorrência nas instituições: UFMG, UNB, UNESP e UFPB. A pesquisa demonstrou a continuidade de estudos na área e apontaram que aproximadamente 1/5 das dissertações e 1/10 das teses brasileiras abrangem.
Desarrollo de la Biblioteca Digital Educativa EduCR@I 2.0
Authors: López Santana Yolanda , López Vargas Alfredo Jonatan
Published: January 2013

Las bibliotecas han evolucionado de ser lugares donde se almacenan, organizan y difunden la información hasta convertirse en centros dinámicos que actúan de manera proactiva en la construcción del conocimiento al disponer de recursos y servicios que innovan la manera de comunicarse con sus usuarios al generar espacios alternativos para lograr un impacto en la vida académica de la institución. La presente propuesta de biblioteca digital educativa consiste en la construcción de un espacio virtual extendido a la biblioteca física para albergar diferentes recursos con fines didácticos y educativos expresados en objetos de aprendizaje, canal de video, wikis, aula virtual, blogs, portal web, biblioteca en mundos virtuales y repositorios digitales. EDUCR@I 2.0 es el nombre que se le ha designado a la multiplataforma digital educativa de la biblioteca del CUCSUR, que presenta hasta el momento como avance en su construcción el diseño de estructuras para el desarrollo de competencias escritoras. El proyecto propone un esquema flexible al organizarse de forma modular y con posibilidades para incrementar sus componentes. Permite el ahorro de costos debido a la utilización de software libre y código abierto así como la intranet del campus y, dependiendo de la incorporación de materiales multimedia, usuarios conectados y documentos digitalizados a las bases de datos, es posible realizar pruebas preliminares de su funcionalidad con equipos de cómputo tipo Workstation existentes para la realización de pruebas preliminares y la medición de crecimiento de las colecciones a futuro
The Compatibility of Swine BMDC-derived Bile Duct Endothelial Cells with a Nanostructured Electrospun PLGA Material
Authors: Zhou Jiahua , Yang Yang , Yin Xueyan , Xu Yong , Cao Yang , Xu Qian
Published: January 2013

Purpose

To investigate the production of bile duct endothelial cells via directed differentiation of porcine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) down the hepatic lineage in vitro and the biocompatibility of differentiated bile duct endothelial cells with electrospun nanofibers.

Methods

Porcine BMSCs were differentiated in vitro into bile duct endothelial cells, which were identified by morphology and RT-PCR. PLGA nanofiber membranes were prepared by electrospinning. The morphology was detected by scanning electron microscopy and the short-term (two weeks) in vitro degradation rate was determined. Adhesion and proliferation of the bile duct endothelial cells on the nanofiber surface were analyzed by calculating the cell adhesion rate and MTT assay, respectively. Cell growth, morphology and distribution on the material surface were observed by fluorescence staining and scanning electron microscopy, respectively.

Results

After four weeks of directed differentiation of BMSCs in vitro, cells showed the typical morphology of dendritic bile duct endothelial cells and had the expression of CK19. Scanning electron micrographs showed that electrospun materials were continuous nanofibers with diameters between 200 and 500 nm. No significant degradation of the PLGA nanofibers was observed within two weeks. Based on the measured cell adhesion rate, MTT assay, fluorescence staining, and scanning electron microscopy, the differentiated cells possess a good proliferative capacity on PLGA nanofibers.

Conclusions

BMSCs can be differentiated into the bile duct endothelial cells in vitro. Materials prepared by the electrospinning method have a nanofiber structure, which does not significantly degrade within two weeks. Differentiated cells exhibit good biocompatibility with the nanofibers.
Paricalcitol Effects on Activities and Metabolism of Platelet Activating Factor and on Inflammatory Cytokines in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Verouti Sophia N. , Tsoupras Alexandros B. , Alevizopoulou Fotini , Demopoulos Constantinos A. , Iatrou Christos
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Paricalcitol improves the inflammatory status of hemodialysis patients. PAF is a strong inflammatory mediator which is produced during hemodialysis. We studied the effects of paricalcitol on PAF and other inflammatory mediators implicated in chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

We examined the in vitro effects of paricalcitol on PAF/thrombin-induced aggregation as well as on the activities of PAF-basic metabolic enzymes, lyso-PAF acetyltransferase (Lyso-PAF-AT), DTT-insensitive CDP-choline: 1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol cholinephospho-transferase (PAF-CPT) and PAF-acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH) in blood cells from healthy volunteers. In addition, the in vivo effects of paricalcitol on the above these enzymes were examined in plasma and blood cells of hemodialysis patients who had not received any type of vitamin D treatment during the last three months before and after receiving paricalcitol for a month. Finally, IL-12p70, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α were measured.

Results

Paricalcitol inhibited in vitro PAF/thrombin-induced platelet aggregation and the inhibitory effect was comparable with that of PAF/thrombin antagonists. In addition, paricalcitol inhibited in vitro PAF-CPT activity in platelets and leukocytes and increased PAF-AH activity in leukocytes, while much higher concentrations of paricalcitol were needed to inhibit Lyso-PAF-AT activity. Similarly, in hemodialysis patients, paricalcitol treatment reduced PAF-CPT activity in platelets and leukocytes and increased PAF-AH activity in leukocytes, while it could not influence Lyso-PAF-AT activity. On the other hand, paricalcitol therapy reduced IL-8, IL-1β, and TNF-α.

Conclusions

These results further support the beneficial effects of vitamin D treatment in hemodialysis patients, since it strongly affects PAF/thrombin activities, PAF-metabolism, and IL-8, IL-1β and TNF-α circulating levels.
Third-Body Abrasive Wear of Tibial Polyethylene Inserts Combined with Metallic and Ceramic Femoral Components in a Knee Simulator Study
Authors: Zietz Carmen , Bergschmidt Philipp , Lange Regina , Mittelmeier Wolfram , Bader Rainer
Published: January 2013

Aim

Total knee arthroplasties have reached a high grade of quality and safety, but most often fail because of aseptic implant loosening caused by polyethylene wear debris. Wear is generated at the articulating surfaces, e.g. caused by third-body particles. The objective of this experimental study was to determine the wear of tibial polyethylene inserts combined with metallic and ceramic femoral components under third-body wear conditions initiated by bone cement particles.

Methods and Materials

Wear testing using a cemented unconstrained bicondylar knee endoprosthesis (Multigen Plus CR knee system) was performed in a knee wear simulator. Tibial polyethylene inserts were combined with the identical femoral component design, but made of two different materials (cobalt-chromium and ceramic). Bone cement debris including zirconium oxide particles was added every 500,000 cycles between the articulating surfaces. After 5 million load cycles, the amount of wear was determined gravimetrically and compared with results from standard wear test conditions. The surfaces of tibial inserts were also analyzed.

Results

The average gravimetrical wear of the tibial polyethylene inserts in combination with cobalt-chromium and ceramic femoral components under third-body wear conditions amounted to 31.88 ± 4.53 mg and 13.06 ± 1.88 mg after 5 million cycles, respectively, and was higher than under standard wear test conditions in both cases.

Conclusions

The wear simulator test demonstrates that wear of polyethylene inserts under third-body wear conditions, in combination with ceramic femoral components, was significantly lower than with metallic femoral components.
Extracellular nucleic acids as novel alarm signals in the vascular system
Authors: Fischer S. , Preissner K. T.
Published: January 2013

Upon vascular injury or tissue damage, the exposed intracellular material such as nucleic acids, histones and other macromolecules may come into contact with vessel wall cells and circulating blood cells and may thus, have an enduring influence on wound healing and body defence processes. This short review summarizes recent work related to extracellular DNA and RNA and their role as prominent alarm signals and inducers of different defence reactions related to innate immunity and thrombus formation. Of particular importance are DNA-histone complexes (nucleosome material) that, having been expelled during stimulation of the neutro-phils, not only trap and eliminate bacteria but also promote thrombus formation in the arterial and venous system. Consequently therefore, the administration of DNase exhibits strong antithrombotic functions. Similarly, extracellular RNA provokes activation of the contact phase system of blood coagulation and, by interacting with specific proteins and cytokines, it promotes vascular permeability and oedema formation. The development of RNA-mediated thrombosis, vasogenic oedema or proinflammatory responses are counteracted by the administration of RNase1 in several pathogenetic animal models. Thus, extra cellular nucleic acids appear not only to function as host alarm signals that serve to amplify the defence response, but they also provide important links to thrombus formation as part of the innate immune system.
Essentail and Toxic Metals in Lebanese Marketed Canned Food: Impact of Metal Cans
Authors: Korfali Samira I. , Hamdan Weam Abou
Published: January 2013

Canned foods are frequently consumed in Lebanon, and limited reported information about metal content in Lebanese marketed canned food. The objective of this study is to assess metal content of different canned food sold in Lebanese market and the impact of metal cans on food quality. Results indicated that Fe has the highest percentage of metals in cans, some cans the % of Al was comparable to Fe and 50% of cans had Sn up to 12%. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) of each metal indicated statistically significant difference of metal levels in the different food categories, except for Cr. In food Fe, Zn, Cu, Al, and Sn levels were below the international permissible levels. But in some artichoke and mushroom Sn levels were close to EU permissible limit, a correlation existed between levels of Sn and Al in cans and the respective food. Lead highest levels were in corn and fava beans, Hg in fish, and both were below PTWI levels. Thirty percent of vegetables and legumes and 45% of fish samples had Cd levels above EU permissible level (0.1 ug/g). This finding necessitates continuous monitoring of Cd levels in canned food for providing citizens with safe food.
Ressources de problématisation en géographie scolaire française
Authors: Thémines Jean-François
Published: January 2013

L’article présente à partir d’un modèle descriptif-interprétatif (le modèle de la composition didactique) ce qui caractérise la problématisation des apprentissages dans une géographie scolaire d’acteurs, soit la capacité à s’approprier et à construire de l’espace public. Quatre domaines de ressources de problématisation sont présentés en s’adossant à deux cas de situations d’enseignement-apprentissage expérimentées dans une formation professionnelle. On voit ainsi s’esquisser un régime de tensions intrinsèque à la problématisation en géographie autour des façons de définir l’unité et la différence dans l’espace.
La problématisation de la géographie scolaire à travers les introductions de manuels scolaires de 1998 et de 2008
Authors: Niclot Daniel
Published: January 2013

En France, la géographie scolaire entre en crise dans les années 1980 sous les effets conjugués des changements de paradigme de la géographie scientifique, de la perte de sens pour les élèves d’une discipline qui enseigne des savoirs figés et qui accorde une place essentielle à la mémorisation. Durant cette période, les débats sur les causes de la crise de l’enseignement de la géographie, menés notamment dans le cadre d’un mouvement didactique naissant, sont actifs. La problématisation est présentée comme une solution pour renouveler l’enseignement de cette discipline et, en 1995, les programmes scolaires imposent cette nouvelle orientation. Une analyse de manuels scolaires montre qu’en réalité la problématisation proposée reste formelle et ne remet en cause que très partiellement les méthodes d’enseignement traditionnelles de la géographie.
Logiques didactiques et problématisation des contenus dans l’activité de préparation de séquences des enseignants d’histoire
Authors: Bouhon Mathieu
Published: January 2013

L’objet de cette contribution est de saisir les représentations sociales (théorie du noyau central) que les enseignants d’histoire se font de la préparation de séquences, des logiques didactiques qui les organisent et de la place qu’y revêt éventuellement la problématisation des contenus d’enseignement. L’étude se fonde sur des données issues d’un échantillon représentatif de 175 enseignants d’histoire belges et luxembourgeois. Partant de l’hypothèse que les représentations sont historiquement construites et socialement situées, les données sont analysées en fonction de l’adhésion des enseignants aux différents modèles d’enseignement de l’histoire inscrits au coeur des prescriptions curriculaires depuis la fin des années 1960. L’hypothèse est que ces modèles ont formé un contexte didactique dans lequel les pratiques et les significations associées à ces pratiques se sont construites.
Kampo Extract of Shinbuto Improved Refractory Diarrhea in Milroy's Disease
Authors: Horiba Yuko , Yoshino Tetsuhiro , Watanabe Kenji
Published: January 2013

Milroy's disease is a hereditary congenital lymphedema caused by lymphatic obstruction. The legs are most commonly affected, but impaired intestinal lymphatic flow can cause loose bowel movements. Here, we report the use of the Kampo extract of shinbuto for successful treatment of and abdominal pain in a patient with Milroy's disease. Milroy's disease was diagnosed because of left leg lymphedema with onset at birth. Conservative therapy with a compression bandage was applied. However, when the patient moved to Manila at 35 years of age, she was exposed to drastic temperature changes between the air-conditioned cold environment in her room and the hot and humid environment outside. She developed a constitutional state of coldness as in hiesho. Then sudden lower abdominal pain and diarrhea began to occur 3 times per week and lasted at least 1 hour, sometimes accompanied by vomiting. It happened particularly when she was exposed to the cold environment and was not related to meals. Conventional anti-cholinergic or antidiarrhetic drugs had no therapeutic effect. These attacks continued in the same frequency for 3 years, so the patient visited a Kampo (traditional Japanese medicine) clinic, where her diagnosis of Milroy's disease-associated diarrhea and abdominal pain was augmented by the Kampo diagnosis of hiesho, suitai (body fluid retention). She was prescribed 7.5 g of shinbuto extract per day (TJ-30; Tsumura Co, Tokyo, Japan). The shinbuto extract significantly reduced abdominal pain and refractory diarrhea to about 2 days per month, and it tapered of completely in 3 months. Shinbuto is usually used against cold-induced diarrhea. Rewarming and water movement by shinbuto resulted in significant improvement in symptoms induced by hiesho and suitai triggered by the cold environment, though the patient's leg swelling did not change.