bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast hyperbolic deconvolutive Radon transform using generalized Fourier slice theorem
Authors: Mokhtari Ahmadreza , Gholami Ali , Siahkoohi Hamid Reza
Published: December 2018

The hyperbolic Radon transform has a long history of applications in seismic data processing because of its ability to focus/sparsify the data in the transform domain. Recently, deconvolutive Radon transform has also been proposed with an improved time resolution which provides improved processing results. The basis functions of the (deconvolutive) Radon transform, however, are time‐variant, making the classical Fourier based algorithms ineffective to carry out the required computations. A direct implementation of the associated summations in the time–space domain is also computationally expensive, thus limiting the application of the transform on large data sets. In this paper, we present a new method for fast computation of the hyperbolic (deconvolutive) Radon transform. The method is based on the recently proposed generalized Fourier slice theorem which establishes an analytic expression between the Fourier transforms associated with the data and Radon plane. This allows very fast computations of the forward and inverse transforms simply using fast Fourier transform and interpolation procedures. These canonical transforms are used within an efficient iterative method for sparse solution of (deconvolutive) Radon transform. Numerical examples from synthetic and field seismic data confirm high performance of the proposed fast algorithm for filling in the large gaps in seismic data, separating primaries from multiple reflections, and performing high‐quality stretch‐free stacking.
Heli‐borne gravity gradiometry in rugged terrain
Authors: Dransfield Mark H. , Chen Tianyou
Published: December 2018

For airborne gravity gradiometry in rugged terrain, helicopters offer a significant advantage over fixed‐wing aircraft: their ability to maintain much lower ground clearances. Crucially, this provides both better signal‐to‐noise and better spatial resolution than is possible with a fixed‐wing survey in the same terrain. Comparing surveys over gentle terrain at Margaret Lake, Canada, and over rugged terrain at Mount Aso, Japan, demonstrates that there is some loss of spatial resolution in the more rugged terrain. The slightly higher altitudes forced by rugged terrain make the requirements for terrain correction easier than for gentle terrain. Transforming the curvature gradients measured by the Falcon gravity gradiometer into gravity and the complete set of tensor components is done by a Fourier method over gentle terrain and an equivalent source method for rugged terrain. The Fourier method is perfectly stable and uses iterative padding to improve the accuracy of the longer wavelengths. The equivalent source method relies on a smooth model inversion, and the source distribution must be designed to suit the survey design.
Soil moisture from remote sensing to forecast desert locust presence
Authors: Piou Cyril , Gay Pierre‐Emmanuel , Benahi Ahmed Salem , Babah Ebbe Mohamed Abdallahi Ould , Chihrane Jamal , Ghaout Saïd , Cisse Sory , Diakite Fakaba , Lazar Mohammed , Cressman Keith , Merlin Olivier , Escorihuela Maria‐José
Published: December 2018

Preventive control of desert locusts is based on monitoring recession areas to detect outbreaks. Remote sensing has been increasingly used in the preventive control strategy. Soil moisture is a major ecological driver of desert locust populations but is still missing in the current imagery toolkit for preventive management.

By means of statistical analyses, combining field observations of locust presence/absence and soil moisture estimates at 1 km resolution from a disaggregation algorithm, we assess the potential of soil moisture to help preventive management of desert locust.

We observe that a soil moisture dynamics increase of above 0.09 cm3/cm3 for 20 days followed by a decrease of soil moisture may increase the chance to observe locusts 70 days later. We estimate the gains in early warning timing compared to using imagery from vegetation to be 3 weeks.

We demonstrate that forecasting errors may be reduced by the combination of several types of indicators such as soil moisture and vegetation index in a common statistical model forecasting locust presence.

Policy implications. Soil moisture estimates at 1 km resolution should be used to plan desert locust surveys in preventive management. When soil moisture increases in a dry area of potential habitat for the desert locust, field surveys should be conducted two months later to evaluate the need of further preventive actions. Remote sensing estimates of soil moisture could also be used for other applications of integrated pest management.
Biomass partitioning in a future dry andCO2enriched climate: Shading aggravates drought effects in Scots pine but not European black pine seedlings
Authors: Bachofen Christoph , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Moser Barbara
Published: December 2018

Climate change alters both water andCO2availability for plants, but it is largely unknown how they interact with light to affect tree seedling establishment and early growth. Light availability is often regulated by forest management, thus understanding how these resources co‐limit the regeneration success of tree species and populations with contrasting drought tolerances is essential for adaptive forest management and particularly for assisted migration.

We studied biomass partitioning of 3‐year‐old Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and European black pine (Pinus nigra) seedlings in response to combined effects of light (22% and 40% shade), soil water availability (moist and dry conditions) andCO2(ambient and elevated), and examined the responses of seedlings from Central Alpine and Mediterranean origin. Seedlings of nine populations with varying drought tolerances were grown in a common garden in the European Central Alps. Shoot height, vertical root length, shoot and root biomass of the plants were assessed at the end of the third growing season.

Under 40% shade and dry conditions,P. sylvestrisseedlings severely reduced shoot biomass, resulting in an increased specific shoot height (SSH) compared to seedlings under 22% shade and moist conditions. In contrast,P. nigraseedlings retained a constant shoot biomass under all treatment combinations. Seedlings from drier origin were generally larger, heavier and had longer vertical roots than those from wetter locations. In order to keep up shoot height, seedlings from wetter origins disproportionately increasedSSHunder shaded conditions compared to populations from drier origin.

Synthesis and applications. Under high light availability, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and European black pine (Pinus nigra) seedlings were well adapted to dry conditions. Moderate shading, however, substantially reduced Scots pine but not black pine growth, and potentially amplified the vulnerability of Scots pine seedlings to drought. Optimising light conditions in forests, for example by thinning, may thus enhance early Scots pine regeneration in a drier future climate.
Computable General Equilibrium Analysis of Increase in Government Agricultural Expenditure on Household Welfare in Nigeria
Authors: Iorember Paul Terhemba , Jelilov Gylych
Published: December 2018

In spite of the renewed interest in agriculture as the main driver of the economic policy which focuses on diversifying the economy away from oil‐based to agriculture‐driven economy, there seems to be no evidence of the policy effect on the welfare of the people. This study aimed at investigating the effect of an increase in government agriculture expenditure on the well‐being of rich and poor households in Nigeria. The study employed a computable general equilibrium model given its appropriateness in handling economy‐wide and the welfare effect of specific policies. Simulations results reveal that the welfare of both rich and poor households improves with an increase in agriculture expenditure share. The improvement for both households as well as overall economic welfare was found to be highest under simulation one (25 per cent increase in agriculture expenditure share), followed by simulation two (10 per cent increase in agriculture expenditure share) and then simulation three (5 per cent increase in agriculture expenditure share). The study therefore recommends that government should significantly increase funding of agriculture through increased allocation to the agricultural sector in compliance with the Food and Agriculture Organization and the Maputo 2003 declarations on Agriculture.
Entrepreneurial Success in Africa: How Relevant Are Foreign Direct Investment and Financial Development?
Authors: Munemo Jonathan
Published: December 2018

A panel dataset of 28 African countries spanning the period 2004–2014 is used to empirically analyze the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) and financial development on new business density, a critical measure of entrepreneurship. Panel fixed effects and dynamic panel regressions were estimated while controlling for other important factors that influence entrepreneurship. The paper finds that FDI enhances entrepreneurship in African countries with more developed financial institutions and markets. These countries have greater absorptive capacity needed to benefit from potential FDI spillovers. In addition, the results also show that improving all the different dimensions of financial development (depth, access, and efficiency) is important for stimulating new entrepreneurial activity.
Subversive Acts: The Early Charters of the Borough of Beverley
Authors: CARPENTER DAVID X , SHARPE RICHARD
Published: December 2018

Three charters for the men of Beverley, in Yorkshire, appear at first sight to be products of the first half of the twelfth century, and so among the oldest surviving borough charters. As such, they have been repeatedly printed or referenced in books which consider the origins of English civic institutions. Careful analysis of their script and text, however, reveals that they were forged during the last quarter of the twelfth century. This article establishes the circumstances behind the forgeries, and shows how the men of Beverley developed their borough privileges in the face of opposition from their feudal overlords, the archbishops of York.
Validation of a Rapid Microwave‐Assisted Extraction Method and GC‐FID Quantification of Total Branched Chain Fatty Acids in Lamb Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue
Authors: Gravador Rufielyn S. , Harrison Sabine M. , Monahan Frank J. , Gkarane Vasiliki , Farmer Linda J. , Brunton Nigel P.
Published: December 2018

A rapid microwave‐assisted extraction and derivatization of three branched chain fatty acids (BCFA): 4‐methyloctanoic acid (MOA), 4‐ethyloctanoic acid (EOA) and 4‐methylnonanoic acid (MNA) from subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of lamb was developed and validated. Linearity was excellent (R2 > 0.99), and the limits of detection and quantification (μg/mL) were between 0.03 to 0.05 and 0.04 to 0.06, respectively. The relative response factors were 0.9416, 1.2840, and 1.0370 determined with high precision (RSD: 5.8%, 6.7%, and 5.9%) for MOA, EOA, and MNA, respectively. The accuracy, recoveries and matrix effect were 92.5% to 108.3%, 103.1% to 103.8%, and 89.3% to 101.9%, respectively. Analysis of 24 SAT samples can be done in under 4 hr. The levels of total BCFA in SAT of lambs were in good agreement with levels found in literature using more time‐consuming method.

Practical Application

Microwave‐assisted preparation and quantification of branched chain fatty acids (BCFA) in lamb subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) was developed and validated. This method requires the use of less toxic chemicals and a relatively higher number of samples can be analyzed in a short period of time in comparison to established methods of fatty acid analysis. The validated method met the internationally accepted standards, and the BCFA levels in lamb SAT were consistent with published values; consequently, the method can be used for future analyses.
Higher blood pressure predicts diabetes and enhances long‐term risk of cardiovascular disease events in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance: Twenty‐three‐year follow‐up of the Daqing diabetes prevention study
Authors: Li Xiaojue , Wang Jinping , Shen Xiaoxia , An Yali , Gong Qiuhong , Li Hui , Zhang Bo , Shuai Ying , Chen Yanyan , Hu Yinghua , Li Guangwei
Published: December 2018

Background

Hypertension is more prevalent in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), but whether higher blood pressure per se or the mild hyperglycemia in combination with the hypertension enhanced the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains unclear.

Methods

Five hundred and sixty‐eight participants with IGT in the original Daqing diabetes prevention study, 297 with hypertension (HBP) and 271 without hypertension (NBP), were enrolled in 1986 and the intervention phase lasted for 6 years. In 2009, they were followed up to assess the outcomes of cardiovascular events (including stroke and myocardial infarction) and incidence of diabetes.

Results

Over 23 years, the incidence of diabetes was 93.9/1000 person‐years in HBP and 72.2/1000 person‐years in the NBP group, with an age‐ and sex‐adjusted hazard ratio of 1.26 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04‐1.54, P = 0.02). The yearly incidence of CVD events was 27.7/1000 person‐years and 16.6/1000 person‐years, indicating a 35% higher risk in HBP than in the NBP group (95% CI, 1.01‐1.81; P = 0.04). Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that a 10‐mm Hg increase of the baseline systolic blood pressure was associated with 9% increased risk of the development of diabetes (P = 0.02), together with a 7% higher risk of the CVD events (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Hypertension predicted diabetes and enhances long‐term risk of CVD events in patients with IGT. An individualized strategy that targets hypertension as well as hyperglycemia is needed for diabetes and its cardiovascular complications.
Sweet Celebrations: A Managerial Accounting Case Study
Authors: Schultz Wendy L.
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this teaching case is to demonstrate the application of contribution margin analysis in a custom bakery setting. This case is based on an actual company and illustrates the need for managerial accounting information for internal decision making, including sales mix and pricing decisions. In analyzing the case, students calculate contribution margin and contribution margin per unit of a constrained resource. Students are also required to consider the challenges faced by a growing small business, including the need to delegate responsibilities.
Financial Reporting Choices and Labor Contract Negotiations: A Case Study in the University Sector
Authors: Morrill Cameron , Morrill Janet , Spraakman Gary
Published: December 2018

A sizeable literature has developed that considers the interest of labor unions in employer financial statements and the effect that interest has on employer accounting decisions. Empirical results have been mixed, but there is at least some evidence that employers facing union pressure engage in earnings management and strategic disclosure decisions that help to win concessions from labor unions. We use a model of labor negotiations (Walton et al., 2000) to focus on a single employer–union relationship, the University of Manitoba (UM) and its academic faculty union, the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA). UMFA performed and published an analysis of the UM's financial statements in preparation for its 2010 round of collective bargaining, allowing us to identify accounting variables key to that analysis. We show that UM deducted internal restrictions and capital transfers from operating income to give the impression that its ability to pay was compromised. In assessing 16 subsequent disclosure events by UM, its disclosure strategy appears to reflect primarily, but not uniformly, a forcing bargaining posture. Our analysis indicates that UM enjoyed considerable latitude in its financial reporting, which it used to its advantage in negotiations and to hinder budgetary oversight.
Should we be concerned about multiple comparisons in hierarchical Bayesian models?
Authors: Ogle Kiona , Peltier Drew , Fell Michael , Guo Jessica , Kropp Heather , Barber Jarrett
Published: December 2018

Ecologists increasingly use hierarchical Bayesian (HB) models to estimate group‐level parameters that vary by, for example, species, treatment level, habitat type or other factors. Group‐level parameters may be compared to infer differences among levels. We would conclude a non‐zero pairwise difference, separately, for each pair in the group, when the respective 95% credible interval excludes zero. Classical procedures suggest that the rejection procedure should be adjusted to control the family‐wise error rate (FWER) for a family of differences. Adjustments for FWER have been considered unnecessary in HB models due to partial pooling whereby increased pooling strength – group‐level parameters become more alike – could lead to decreased rejection rates (Type I error, FWER, or Power) and increased false acceptance rates (Type 2 error and its family‐wise analogue).

To address this, we conducted a simulation experiment with factors of sample size, group size, balance (missingness), overall mean and ratio of within‐ to between‐group variances, resulting in 2016 factor‐level combinations (‘scenarios’), replicated 100 times, producing 201,600 pseudo datasets analysed in a Bayesian framework. We evaluated the results in the context of a new partial pooling index (PPI), which we show is also applicable to more complex model structures based on four real‐data examples.

Simulation results confirm intuition that rejection rates (false and true) decrease and false acceptance rates increase with increasing PPI or pooling strength (scenario‐level R2 = 0.81–0.97). The relationship with PPI differed greatly for balanced versus unbalanced designs and was affected by group size, especially for family‐wise errors. Critically, an HB model does not guarantee that the FWER will follow a set significance level (α); for example, even minor imbalance can lead to FWER > α for weak to moderate pooling. These results are confirmed by the real‐data examples, suggesting that ecologists need to consider FWER when applying HB models, especially for large group sizes or incomplete datasets.

Contrary to current thought, HB models are not immune to issues of multiplicity, and our proposed PPI offers a method for evaluating if a particular HB analysis is likely to produce FWER ≤ α (no adjustment or alternative solution required).
The area under the precision‐recall curve as a performance metric for rare binary events
Authors: Sofaer Helen R. , Hoeting Jennifer A. , Jarnevich Catherine S.
Published: December 2018

Species distribution models are used to study biogeographic patterns and guide decision‐making. The variable quality of these models makes it critical to assess whether a model's outputs are suitable for the intended use, but commonly used evaluation approaches are inappropriate for many ecological contexts. In particular, unrealistically high performance assessments have been associated with models for rare species and predictions over large geographic extents.

We evaluated the area under the precision‐recall curve (AUC‐PR) as a performance metric for rare binary events, focusing on the assessment of species distribution models. Precision is the probability that a species is present given a predicted presence, while recall (more commonly called sensitivity) is the probability the model predicts presence in locations where the species has been observed. We simulated species at three levels of prevalence, compared AUC‐PR and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC‐ROC) when the geographic extent of predictions was increased and assessed how well each metric reflected a model's utility to guide surveys for new populations.

AUC‐PR was robust to species rarity and, unlike AUC‐ROC, not affected by an increasing geographic extent. The major advantages of AUC‐PR arise because it does not incorporate correctly predicted absences and is therefore less prone to exaggerate model performance for unbalanced datasets. AUC‐PR and precision were useful indicators of a model's utility for guiding surveys.

We show that AUC‐PR has important advantages for evaluating models of rare species, and its benefits in the context of unbalanced binary responses will make it applicable for other ecological studies. By not considering the true negative quadrant of the confusion matrix, AUC‐PR ameliorates issues that arise when the geographic extent is increased beyond the species’ range or when a large number of background points are used when absence information is unavailable. However, no single metric captures all aspects of performance nor provides an absolute index that can be compared across datasets. Our results indicate AUC‐PR and precision can provide useful and intuitive metrics for evaluating a model's utility for guiding sampling, and can complement other metrics to help delineate a model's appropriate use.
The Costs of Debt Contracts and the Repeated Use of Debt Covenants
Authors: Kim Bong Hwan
Published: December 2018

I examine the tendency to repeatedly use the same financial covenant in debt contracts and the economic determinants of such repeated use. Using the Dealscan database, I find a tendency to repeatedly use the same financial covenant. I also find that this tendency becomes stronger when a lender has high search costs for an informative covenant or high negotiation costs. I further find that this tendency becomes weaker when a borrower has a high risk of default. My study provides evidence that the cost of writing a contract is economically meaningful and needs to be considered to avoid overstating the effect of accounting informativeness on covenant choice.
Long‐term health‐related quality of life in children with lymphatic malformations treated with sclerotherapy generally matched age‐appropriate standardised population norms
Authors: Ghaffarpour Nader , Claesson Gösta , Wester Tomas , Boman Krister K.
Published: December 2018

Aim

We assessed the long‐term health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of children who received sclerotherapy for lymphatic malformations. This treatment involved injecting drugs into the blood vessels to make them shrink.

Methods

Our cross‐sectional study retrospectively reviewed patients who received OK‐432 sclerotherapy injections at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden, from 1998 to 2013. We studied 49 patients (63% female) aged 8–18 at least five years after their first injection. HRQoL was assessed with the KIDSCREEN‐52 questionnaire and a study‐specific questionnaire addressed disease consequences and patient satisfaction. We determined associations between HRQoL and disease and treatment and the patient's sex.

Results

Overall HRQoL paralleled age‐appropriate norms in the general population, but some subgroups had lower levels. Regression‐based estimates showed that larger numbers of injections were negatively associated with HRQoL in the dimensions autonomy, parent relations and home life, financial resources and school environment (p = 0.01–0.03). Malformations in the head and neck area were negative predictors across dimensions and were strongest for psychological well‐being (p = 0.009), parent relations and home life (p = 0.017) and school environment (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

Despite generally positive outcomes, multiple injections and malformations in the head and neck were associated with impaired HRQoL.
Use of proton pump inhibitors among Danish children: A 16‐year register‐based nationwide study
Authors: Aznar‐Lou Ignacio , Reilev Mette , Lødrup Anders Bergh , Rubio‐Valera Maria , Haastrup Peter Fentz , Pottegård Anton
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are among the most frequently used drugs in the developed countries. In recent years, their use among children and adolescents has been on the increase. Guidelines recommend use for a period no longer than 4‐8 weeks. The aim of this study was to describe time trends in prescribing patterns of PPI use among children, with emphasis on persistence to therapy.

Methods

We used the Danish nationwide healthcare registries and identified all Danish children (0‐17 years old) who were provided with a filled in PPI prescription between 2000 and 2015. Based on descriptive analyses, we reported trends over time in annual use, prevalent and incident users. Moreover, we evaluated persistence to treatment and doses used over time. Analyses were stratified by age groups (0‐4, 5‐11 and 12‐17 years).

Results

We identified 212 056 filled in PPI prescriptions prescribed to 78 489 children. The total annual use of PPIs among children increased eight times from 2000 to 2015. Omeprazole was most frequently used (60% of all use). The proportion of prevalent users increased from 0.1 in 2000 to 3.1 per 1000 children in 2015, while the rate of new users increased from 1.2 to 8.0 per 1000 child years. In general, persistence to PPIs was low: in the youngest age groups (14%), slightly more children were covered by treatment 12 months after the first prescription compared with the oldest age groups (5%).

Conclusion

The use of PPIs among Danish children has increased substantially during the last 15 years. In general, treatment with PPIs among children was of short duration. Attention should be paid to indications and rationality behind initiation of therapy.
Politicization as an antecedent of polarization: Evidence from two different political and national contexts
Authors: Simon Bernd , Reininger Klaus Michael , Schaefer Christoph Daniel , Zitzmann Steffen , Krys Sabrina
Published: December 2018

Using longitudinal research designs, we examine the role of politicization in the development of polarization. We conducted research in two different political and national contexts. In Study 1, we employ a panel sample of supporters of the Tea Party movement in the United States and examine the relationship between the strength of their politicization and their subsequent feelings towards conservatives versus liberals (affective polarization) as well as their subsequent perceptions of commonalities with conservatives versus liberals (cognitive polarization). In Study 2, we employ a panel sample of members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) community in Germany and examine the politicization–polarization link with regard to feelings towards, and perceived commonalities with, feminists versus supporters of a populist right‐wing political party. We obtained converging evidence suggesting that politicization promotes both affective and cognitive polarization. There was also some, but very limited evidence pointing to reverse causation. The danger of escalating polarization is discussed.
Nitric oxide is not just blowing in the wind
Authors: Ignarro Louis J
Published: December 2018

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Nitric Oxide 20 Years from the 1998 Nobel Prize. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.2/issuetoc
A preliminary comparison of masticatory performances between immediately loaded and conventionally loaded mandibular two‐implant overdentures with magnetic attachments
Authors: Komagamine Yuriko , Kanazawa Manabu , Sato Daisuke , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: December 2018

Background

Two‐implant overdentures (2‐IODs) is an expected treatment option to improve the masticatory performance (MP) of edentulous individuals.

Purpose

The purpose of the current study was to compare MPs between immediately loaded and conventionally loaded mandibular 2‐IODs retained by magnet attachments.

Materials and Methods

Nineteen participants with edentulous mandibles were randomly assigned to an immediately loaded group or a conventionally loaded group. Each participant received two implants. The immediate group was loaded on the same day as implant insertion, whereas the conventional group was loaded 3 months after implant insertion. Both MP, measured by a color‐changeable chewing gum and a gummy jelly, and maximum occlusal force were assessed at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after implant insertion.

Results

A significantly higher MP, measured by gummy jelly, was observed at the 6‐month time‐point in the immediate group (P = .034). No significant differences in MP, measured by chewing gum, or maximum occlusal force were observed between the two groups at any time‐point.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the present study, immediate loading of 2‐IODs could improve MP at an earlier time‐point than conventional loading of 2‐IODs.
The potential clinical relevance of anatomical structures and variations of the maxillary sinus for planned sinus floor elevation procedures: A retrospective cone beam computed tomography study
Authors: Şimşek Kaya Göksel , Daltaban Özlem , Kaya Mahir , Kocabalkan Burak , Sindel Alper , Akdağ Mehmet
Published: December 2018

Background

Complications arising from sinus floor elevation (SFE) with lateral approach surgery can be avoided by means of maxillary sinus examination in the preoperative period.

Purpose

To investigate anatomical variations in the maxillary sinus by making use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in terms of SFE with a lateral approach.

Materials and Methods

Two hundred twenty eight maxillary sinuses in 114 patients were included. Parameters such as the position and diameter of the posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA) canal, the frequency and localization of the septa or accessory maxillary ostium (AMO), and lateral wall thickness values were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results

Septa were observed in 35.1% of sinuses. The majority of septa were determined in the middle region (48.8%). Additionally, 71.1% of PSAA canals were intraosseous, generally exceeding 1 mm in diameter (68.9%). The shortest mean perpendicular distance between the sinus floor and the PSAA canal was determined in the first molar region (9.22 ± 5.66 mm). Similarly, the highest mean sinus lateral wall thickness was determined in the first molar region, in the area 3 mm distant from the sinus floor (2.42 mm ± 0.88 mm). AMO was detected in 40.8% of sinuses.

Conclusion

CBCT‐guided treatment planning may be beneficial prior to SFE procedures in order to avoid surgical complications.
Aortic root changes before and after surgery for chronic aortic dilatation: A 3D echocardiographic study
Authors: Ballocca Flavia , Ruggeri Giulia Maria , Roscoe Andrew , Thampinathan Babitha , David Tirone Esperidiao , Lang Roberto M. , Meineri Massimiliano , Tsang Wendy
Published: December 2018

Background

Quantitative 3D assessment of the aortic root may improve planning and success of aortic valve (AV)‐sparing operations.

Aims

To use 3D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) to assess the effect of chronic aortic dilatation on aortic root shape and aortic regurgitation (AR) severity and to examine the effects of AV‐sparing operations.

Methods and Results

To determine the changes with chronic aortic dilatation, we studied 48 patients, 23 with aortic dilatation (Group 1 ≤ mild AR, n = 13; Group 2 ≥ moderate AR, n = 10) and 25 Controls. To determine the changes in AV‐sparing operations, a subgroup of 15 patients were examined pre‐ and post surgery. 3D‐TEE images were analyzed using multiplanar reconstruction (QLAB, Philips, Philips Medical Systems, Andover, MA, USA) to obtain aortic root areas, diameters, and lengths. We also calculated a novel parameter called total coaptation surface area (TCoapSA), which sums the contact surface area of all the AV cusps. Compared to Controls, Groups 1 and 2 had significantly larger aortic root areas, inter‐commissural distances, and cusp heights. Compared to Group 1 and Controls, Group 2 had significantly smaller TCoapSA when adjusted for aortic annular area (P = 0.001) with shorter coaptation height (P < 0.001). In patients undergoing AV‐sparing surgery, TCoapSA was significantly larger post surgery (P = 0.001) with greater coaptation height (P < 0.001) and smaller inter‐commissural distances (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The aortic valve is a dynamic structure that remodels in response to aortic dilatation. Successful valve‐sparing surgery corrects these changes. Quantitative modeling of the aortic valve and root could potentially improve the repair to the individual patients and modify outcomes.
Patient education in dental medicine: A review of the literature
Authors: Albano Maria G. , d’Ivernois Jean François , de Andrade Vincent , Levy Gérard
Published: December 2018

Introduction

In dental medicine, chronic diseases and chronic conditions (such as chronic periodontitis, temporomandibular disorders, chronic orofacial pain) justify patient education to self‐care. This strategy of secondary or tertiary prevention, even if officially recognised, is still less known compared to health education, a form of primary prevention. The aim of the study was to make the point of recent studies devoted to patient education. Thus, the purpose of the study was to give an updated picture of patient education in odontology, describing, through an analysis of the international literature from 2006 to 2016, its characteristics and development.

Methods

The main databases selected were: PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Sciences, DOSS, 302 articles published between 2006 and 2016 on patient education among which four RCTs and a case study were analysed because of their rigorous scientific quality.

Results

Patient education concerns chronic diseases and conditions also in the field of orthodontics. This limited number of studies, showed that patient education in odontology can bring real bio‐clinic, cognitive, psychological and economic benefits to patients. Overall, it allows patients to better understand their illness and treatment and, thus, to improve their health behaviours and self‐care techniques, which would reduce the treatment costs. Educational interventions in odontology should constitute a component of patient education in several chronic systemic diseases such as diabetes. It would be necessary to train future practitioners in this field and to develop a scientific research on this practice.
Locomotion is not a privilege after birth: Ultrasound images of viviparous shark embryos swimming from one uterus to the other
Authors: Tomita Taketeru , Murakumo Kiyomi , Ueda Keiichi , Ashida Hiroshi , Furuyama Rina
Published: December 2018

Underwater ultrasound, a new tool for observing the internal body parts of aquatic animals by scuba divers, allowed us long‐term and frequent observations of the embryos of captive aquatic vertebrates. New ultrasound data of captive tawny nurse sharks (Nebrius ferrugineus) revealed that their embryos frequently migrate between the right and left uteri during gestation. This report is the first reliable evidence of active embryonic locomotion in live‐bearing vertebrates and is contradictory to the concept of “sedentary embryo” which has mainly arisen from studies of mammals. The tawny nurse shark is unique among orectolobiform sharks, in which the embryo develops by feeding on sibling eggs in utero. Thus, we hypothesized that swimming aids in an efficient search and capture of these eggs in the uterine environment.
Promoting Recovery Identities Among Mothers with Histories of Addiction: Strategies of Family Engagement
Authors: Gunn Alana , Miranda Samuels Gina
Published: December 2018

Changes in identity are critical to managing transitions to recovery from substance and alcohol addictions. Identity change is particularly important for mothers, whose recovery processes are often in the context of critical but complex family relationships and societal expectations. But research and practice often underestimate the relational dimensions that promote or inhibit changes in one's identity during recovery. Here we analyze data from a study that involved interviews with 30 formerly incarcerated women participating in a community‐based substance use treatment program in the Midwest. Drawing from Constructivist Grounded Theory Methods, our analysis identified three factors shaping levels of engagement with family members: (1) the relational consequences of a shared past; (2) ascribing permanence to the old identity of “addict” versus the ability to see women's capacity to change; and (3) the current provision of caregiving support to participants’ children. Our analysis supports and extends existing research by highlighting how family can both promote and inhibit a recovery identity process. We discuss potential implications for theorizing “recovery” and “identity” as relational and identify key elements to support practices more attuned to the hidden complexity of family support.
Analysis of automotive mixed‐adhesive joints weakened by moist conditions: Experimental characterization and numerical simulation using cohesive zone model
Authors: Zaeri Ahmad Reza , Saeidi Googarchin Hamed
Published: December 2018

This paper is mostly concerned with an experimental and numerical study to clarify the behaviour and failure in the mono‐adhesive joints and mixed‐adhesive joints under different environmental conditions (dry [E0], 75.3% relative humidity [E1], 84.2% relative humidity [E2], and submerged in tap water [E3] at 25°C) and different strain rates (1 and 100 mm/min). Experimental investigations are compared with the numerical analysis, which is carried out by bilinear cohesive zone model (CZM). Through this work, degradations of cohesive parameters are calculated by using open‐faced double cantilever beam (DCB) and end notch flexure (ENF) specimens. The experimental data show that the cohesive parameters of Araldite 2015 have negative correlation to moisture content. Although Araldite AV138 parameters experience a decrease in mode I, in mode II, its cohesive parameter increases. First, it is found that the decrease in experimental failure load of mixed‐adhesive joints with regard to the dry condition is recorded as 32.6%, 54%, and 59.1% for E1, E2, and E3 conditions, respectively. Following this further, single lap joint (SLJ) that has non‐uniform moisture content distribution is modelled by engaging specific CZM parameters related to the specific moisture content. The results show a good agreement between experimental and numerical data.
Stressor interactions in freshwater habitats: Effects of cold water exposure and food limitation on early‐life growth and upper thermal tolerance in white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus
Authors: Rodgers Essie M. , Todgham Anne E. , Connon Richard E. , Fangue Nann A.
Published: December 2018

Limited food availability and altered thermal regimes (e.g. cold water releases from dams) are two common stressors threatening the persistence of fishes inhabiting anthropogenically disturbed freshwater systems. Yet, the combined effects of these stressors remain poorly characterised.

To remedy this, we examined the isolated and combined effects of low temperature exposure and food restriction on specific growth rate (SGR, % body mass/day) and upper thermal tolerance (critical thermal maxima, CTMax) in larval white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus [Acipenseridae], 32 days post‐hatch, body mass: 0.25 ± 0.03 g, mean ± standard deviation). A 2 × 2 factorial design was implemented with fish exposed to one of two ecologically‐relevant acclimation temperatures (cold exposure: 11°C or a control temperature: 18°C) and one of two food restriction treatments designed to emulate observed declines in food availability (100% or 40% optimal feed rate) for 6 weeks (N: 3 replicate tanks/treatment, 50 fish/tank).

Specific growth rate was affected by both low temperature exposure and food restriction in isolation; low temperature exposure reduced SGR by 56.5% and food restriction reduced SGR by 30.6%. Simultaneous exposure to low temperature and food restriction resulted in a greater but less than additive reduction in SGR (80.6%), indicating that the stressors interacted antagonistically.

Critical thermal maxima were c. 2°C higher in 18°C‐acclimated fish (CTMax = 30.7 ± 0.4°C, mean ± standard error) compared to 11°C‐acclimated fish (CTMax = 28.6 ± 0.2°C, mean ± standard error); however, CTMax was independent of food restriction in both 11°C‐ and 18°C‐acclimated fish.

These data highlight the unpredictability of stressor interactions and may guide holistic conservation strategies, which target co‐occurring stressors in freshwater habitats.
Applicability of an elastic band exercise program to wheelchair‐bound older adults with and without dementia: A self‐rating survey
Authors: Hsiao Chih‐Yin , Tsai Athena Yijung , Chen Kuei‐Min , Yao Ching‐Teng
Published: December 2018

Aim

To investigate the perceptions of wheelchair‐bound older adults with and without dementia toward the Wheelchair‐bound Senior Elastic Band exercise program, and to compare the differences of their perceptions to the program.

Methods

A descriptive and comparative design was applied. Data were derived from the experimental groups of two cluster‐randomized controlled trials. A total of 133 participants from eight long‐term care facilities were recruited: dementia trial (four facilities, n = 73) and non‐dementia trial (four facilities, n = 60). All participants received the Wheelchair‐bound Senior Elastic Band exercises, which included three phases of warm‐up, aerobic motion and harmonic stretching, three times per week, 40 min per session for 6 months. The self‐rating survey using the criteria of simplicity, safety, appropriateness and helpfulness was applied to rate the program through face‐to‐face individual interviews at the end of the study.

Results

Wheelchair‐bound older adults with or without dementia have positive perceptions of the Wheelchair‐bound Senior Elastic Band exercise program with regard to its simplicity, safety, appropriateness and helpfulness after 6 months of practice (mean scores ranged 8.75–9.59). No significant differences were found between groups on self‐rating of the program in most of the criteria.

Conclusions

Older adults with dementia might be able to express their perceptions toward the exercise program through the self‐rating survey, as did the participants without dementia. The participants’ perceptions provide direct feedback for modifying, improving and sustaining the long‐term implementation of the program. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 103–107.
Home healthcare professionals’ perspectives on quality dimensions for home pharmaceutical care in Japan
Authors: Fujita Kenji , Kushida Kazuki , Moles Rebekah J , Chen Timothy F
Published: December 2018

Aim

In Japan, home pharmaceutical care (HPC) has recently been provided to home‐bound older adults who have difficulties in accessing a community pharmacy, for regular medicine supplies and medication management. Although the number of HPC services provided has increased, HPC is not always carried out by clinically well‐trained pharmacists, causing differences in the quality of HPC provided. The aim of the present study was to establish the quality dimensions of HPC (i.e. components that impact the quality of HPC) from the perspectives of home healthcare professionals.

Methods

Semistructured interviews and focus groups were carried out with nine home healthcare teams, comprising 61 multidisciplinary professionals including pharmacists, doctors, nurses, care managers, home helpers, medical social workers and other relevant stakeholders involved in home healthcare. Participants’ responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. Identified themes were then categorized using Donabedian's framework (structure, process and outcome).

Results

Nine themes and 27 subthemes emerged, including: structure (pharmacist factors, pharmacy factors and external factors), process (before HPC, during HPC, after HPC and outside of HPC) and outcome (impact on patients and impact on other healthcare professionals).

Conclusion

This study has identified quality dimensions of HPC from multidisciplinary home healthcare professionals’ perspectives. These findings might be used to inform aspects of HPC that require improvement. In order to evaluate the quality of HPC, a set of indicators based on the identified quality dimensions could be developed. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 35–43.
Age‐related changes in muscle elasticity and thickness of the lower extremities are associated with physical functions among community‐dwelling older women
Authors: Saito Akira , Wakasa Masahiko , Kimoto Minoru , Ishikawa Takashi , Tsugaruya Megumi , Kume Yu , Okada Kyoji
Published: December 2018

Aim

To clarify the age‐related changes in muscle elasticity or thickness of the lower extremities in older women, and to analyze their relationship with physical functions.

Methods

The muscle elasticity and thickness of the rectus femoris and medial head of the gastrocnemius of 102 young women (young group) and 221 elderly women (elderly group) were measured using ultrasonography. In the elderly group, physical functions, including knee extension strength, Timed Up and Go test, single‐leg standing, maximum gait speed and Four Square Step Test were also measured.

Results

The elasticity of the rectus femoris and medial head of the gastrocnemius were significantly higher, but the muscle thickness of both muscles was significantly lower in the elderly group than in the young group (both P < 0.001). In the elderly group, the elasticity of the rectus femoris was significantly correlated with Timed Up and Go test, maximum gait speed and Four Square Step Test (ρ = 0.481, r = −0.387 and ρ = 0.401, respectively, all P < 0.001), and the medial head of the gastrocnemius was similar (ρ = 0.471, r = −0.489 and ρ = 0.422, respectively, all P < 0.001). The muscle thickness of the rectus femoris was significantly associated with knee extension strength (r = 0.444, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Older women showed age‐related changes in high elasticity and atrophy of the rectus femoris and medial head of the gastrocnemius. The high elasticity of both muscles, not muscle thickness, was associated with dynamic balance and walking ability. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 61–65.