bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noise Attenuation of Earplugs as Measured by hREAT and F‐MIRE Methods in a Japanese Metal Manufacturing Plant
Authors: Kabe Isamu , Kochi Takeshi , Tsuruoka Hiroko , Tonegawa Toyoko , Denda Ikuo , Nonogi Mari , Tsuiki Hirokazu , Mizoue Tetsuya , Tanaka Shigeru
Published: May 2012

Noise Attenuation of Earplugs as Measured by hREAT and F‐MIRE Methods in a Japanese Metal Manufacturing Plant: Isamu KABE, et al. Furukawa Electric Corporation—

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the noise attenuation (NA) properties of earplugs by using the headphone‐based real‐ear‐attenuation‐at‐threshold (hREAT) and field microphone‐in‐real‐ear (F‐MIRE) techniques.

Methods

The subjects were 89 male workers (mean age: 44.8 ± 12.1 yr) exposed to noise above 85 dBA (mean noise exposure period: 14.3 ± 11.3 yr) in a Japanese nonferrous metal manufacturing plant. They were confirmed to have pure‐tone air‐conduction hearing threshold levels (HTLs). The hREAT and F‐MIRE NA values were measured by a Rion AG‐20A and a 3M E‐A‐Rfit, respectively.

Results

The NA values could not be measured by hREAT for four workers (hREAT– group). The mean NA of the earplugs for subjects for whom hREAT measurements were possible (hREAT+ group) was 26.0 ± 10.0 dB. The NA of the earplugs could be measured for all subjects using F‐MIRE, and the NAs of the hREAT– and hREAT+ groups were 9.5 ± 8.7 and 21.0 ± 7.3 dB. The mean HTL value at 500 Hz to 2 kHz was 45.8 ± 3.1 dB for the hREAT– group, which was significantly lower than the value for the hREAT+ group, 18.0 ± 8.6 dB.

Conclusion

Because there is a difference between the NA values obtained by hREAT and F‐MIRE, it may be necessary to compensate for this difference. In addition, workers with hearing loss and the length of the measurement time need to be taken into consideration. Finally, the F‐MIRE method may be useful for educating workers about using earplugs in noisy workplaces.
Occupational Exposure to Manganese‐containing Welding Fumes and Pulmonary Function Indices among Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline Welders
Authors: Hassani Hamid , Golbabaei Farideh , Ghahri Asghar , Hosseini Mostafa , Shirkhanloo Hamid , Dinari Behnam , Eskandari Davood , Fallahi Majid
Published: May 2012

Occupational Exposure to Manganese‐containing Welding Fumes and Pulmonary Function Indices among Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline Welders: Hamid HASSANI, et al. Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran—

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to evaluate manganese (Mn)‐containing welding fumes' exposure, assess urinary Mn as a biomarker for Mn exposure and investigate the correlation of Mn in air, total fumes and urinary Mn with pulmonary function indices in 118 welders and 37 unexposed controls from two regions in Iran, Assaluyeh and Borujen.

Methods

Air samples were collected on mixed cellulose ester membrane filters in personal air samplers and then analyzed using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP‐AES) (NIOSH Method 7300). For all participants, urine samples were collected during the entire work shift, and Mn in urine was determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy according to NIOSH Method 8310. Spirometric measurements were also done for participants.

Results

The maximum exposures to airborne Mn and total fumes were 0.304 ± 0.256 mg/m3and 21.52 ± 9.40 mg/m3, respectively. The urine Mn levels in the various groups ranged between 0.77 to 7.58 µg/l. The correlation between airborne Mn and urinary Mn was significant for total whole participants. Some values of spirometric indices were statistically lower in welders rather than controls.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that many welders have been exposed to higher concentrations of Mn‐containing welding fumes. Urinary Mn can be used as a biomarker for Mn exposure. There were weak inverse correlations between Mn‐containing welding fumes and pulmonary function indices, and the inverse correlation between urinary Mn with forced vital capacities (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) was significant.
Effect of Reduced Illumination on Insomnia in Office Workers
Authors: Kozaki Tomoaki , Miura Nobuhiko , Takahashi Masaya , Yasukouchi Akira
Published: May 2012

Effect of Reduced Illumination on Insomnia in Office Workers: Tomoaki KOZAKI, et al. Faculty of Design, Kyushu University—

Objective

We evaluated the possible effects of reduced illumination in the workplace on insomnia among office workers.

Methods

Seventy‐two office workers answered the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) in July 2009 (under ordinary illumination, OI conditions) and July 2010 (under reduced illumination, RI conditions). The workers were divided into three groups, indoor workers (IWs), semioutdoor workers (SWs) and outdoor workers (OWs), according to the frequency of working outside of the office because a worker with a high frequency of working outside of the office might rarely be exposed to the lighting condition within an office. The first five items of the AIS (AIS‐5) were used to assess sleep difficulties, and the last three items (AIS‐3) assessed next‐day consequences of sleep or daytime symptoms, which often result from insomnia and/or sleep disorders.

Results

Illuminance levels at a height of 1,100 mm from the floor under the RI conditions (550–490 lux) were significantly lower than under the OI conditions (750–700 lux). The AIS‐5 score of the IWs was significantly increased under the RI conditions compared with the OI conditions. There was no difference in AIS‐3 scores between conditions for any group.

Conclusion

Indoor workers hardly went outside of the office and were exposed only to office light during the daytime. Thus, the underexposure to light could have had an impact on insomnia in those individuals. A novel lighting environment is required to optimize work‐related levels of light exposure.
Risky Music-Listening Behaviors and Associated Health-Risk Behaviors
Authors: Vogel Ineke , van de Looij-Jansen Petra M. , Mieloo Cathelijne L. , Burdorf Alex , de Waart Frouwkje
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To examine, among adolescents and emerging adults attending inner-city lower education, associations between risky music-listening behaviors (from MP3 players and in discotheques and at pop concerts) and more traditional health-risk behaviors: substance use (cigarettes, alcohol, cannabis, and hard drugs) and unsafe sexual intercourse.

METHODS:

A total of 944 students in Dutch inner-city senior-secondary vocational schools completed questionnaires about their music-listening and traditional health-risk behaviors. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to examine associations between music-listening and traditional health-risk behaviors.

RESULTS:

Risky MP3-player listeners used cannabis more often during the past 4 weeks. Students exposed to risky sound levels during discotheque and pop concert attendance used cannabis less often during the past 4 weeks, were more often binge drinkers, and reported inconsistent condom use during sexual intercourse.

CONCLUSIONS:

The coexistence of risky music-listening behaviors with other health-risk behaviors provides evidence in support of the integration of risky music-listening behaviors within research on and programs aimed at reducing more traditional health-risk behaviors, such as substance abuse and unsafe sexual intercourse.
Transient Neonatal Hypocalcemia: Presentation and Outcomes
Authors: Thomas Teena C. , Smith Joshua M. , White Perrin C. , Adhikari Soumya
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the incidence of moderate-to-severe transient neonatal hypocalcemia in term neonates and to describe the characteristics of affected infants and the outcomes of their management.

METHODS:

We reviewed medical records of all term infants <31 days of age who presented to Children’s Medical Center Dallas from 2001 to 2009 with hypocalcemia (ionized calcium <1.00 mmol/L [4.00 mg/dL]).

RESULTS:

Seventy-eight infants met criteria. Median (interquartile range) age at admission was 8.0 (7.0–10.0) days, and median duration of admission was 3.0 (2.0–4.0) days. Most infants were male (71.8%) and Hispanic (62.8%). Neonates were generally severely hypocalcemic and hyperphosphatemic. Seventy-five of 78 were hypomagnesemic, and the majority had low or inappropriately normal parathyroid hormone responses. Levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D were ≤62.4 nmol/L (25 ng/mL) in all 42 infants in whom they were determined. All infants responded to therapy of limited duration with 1 or more of the following: calcium supplements, calcitriol, low phosphorus formula, and magnesium supplementation. Neuroimaging did not affect management decisions in any neonate.

CONCLUSIONS:

Moderate-to-severe late-onset neonatal hypocalcemia is more common in Hispanic and male infants, is often a sign of coexistent vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency and hypomagnesemia, and is readily managed with therapy of limited duration. Neonates presenting with seizures who are found to be hypocalcemic are unlikely to benefit from neuroimaging evaluations.
Missed Opportunities in the Referral of High-Risk Infants to Early Intervention
Authors: Tang Brian G. , Feldman Heidi M. , Huffman Lynne C. , Kagawa Kimie J. , Gould Jeffrey B.
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVE:

Using a statewide population-based data source, we describe current neonatal follow-up referral practices for high-risk infants with developmental delays throughout California.

METHODS:

From a cohort analysis of quality improvement data from 66 neonatal follow-up programs in the California Children’s Services and California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative High-Risk Infant Follow-Up Quality of Care Initiative, 5129 high-risk infants were evaluated at the first visit between 4 and 8 months of age in neonatal follow-up. A total of 1737 high-risk infants were evaluated at the second visit between 12 and 16 months of age. We calculated referral rates in relation to developmental status (high versus low concern) based on standardized developmental testing or screening.

RESULTS:

Among infants with low concerns (standard score >70 or passed screen) at the first visit, 6% were referred to early intervention; among infants with high concerns, 28% of infants were referred to early intervention. Even after including referrals to other (private) therapies, 34% infants with high concerns did not receive any referrals. These rates were similar for the second visit.

CONCLUSIONS:

In spite of the specialization of neonatal follow-up programs to identify high-risk infants with developmental delays, a large proportion of potentially eligible infants were not referred to early intervention.
Hypertonic Saline and Acute Wheezing in Preschool Children
Authors: Ater Dorit , Shai Hanita , Bar Bat-El , Fireman Nir , Tasher Diana , Dalal Ilan , Ballin Ami , Mandelberg Avigdor
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND:

Most acute wheezing episodes in preschool children are associated with rhinovirus. Rhinovirus decreases extracellular adenosine triphosphate levels, leading to airway surface liquid dehydration. This, along with submucosal edema, mucus plaques, and inflammation, causes failure of mucus clearance. These preschool children do not respond well to available treatments, even oral steroids. This calls for pro–mucus clearance and prohydration treatments such as hypertonic saline in wheezing preschool children.

METHODS:

Randomized, controlled, double-blind study. Forty-one children (mean age 31.9 ± 17.4 months, range 1–6 years) presented with wheezing to the emergency department were randomized after 1 albuterol inhalation to receive either 4 mL of hypertonic saline 5% (HS) (n = 16) or 4 mL of normal saline (NS) (n = 25), both with 0.5 mL albuterol, twice every 20 minutes in the emergency department and 4 times a day thereafter if hospitalized. The primary outcome measured was length of stay (LOS) and the secondary outcomes were admission rate (AR) and clinical severity score.

RESULTS:

The LOS was significantly shorter in the HS than in the NS group: median 2 days (range 0–6) versus 3 days (range 0–5) days (P = .027). The AR was significantly lower in the HS than the NS group: 62.2% versus 92%. Clinical severity score improved significantly in both groups but did not reach significance between them.

CONCLUSIONS:

Using HS inhalations significantly shortens LOS and lowers AR in preschool children presenting with an acute wheezing episode to the emergency department.
Brief Motivational Interviewing Intervention for Peer Violence and Alcohol Use in Teens: One-Year Follow-up
Authors: Cunningham Rebecca M. , Chermack Stephen T. , Zimmerman Marc A. , Shope Jean T. , Bingham C. Raymond , Blow Frederic C. , Walton Maureen A.
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Emergency department (ED) visits present an opportunity to deliver brief interventions (BIs) to reduce violence and alcohol misuse among urban adolescents at risk for future injury. Previous analyses demonstrated that a BI resulted in reductions in violence and alcohol consequences up to 6 months. This article describes findings examining the efficacy of BIs on peer violence and alcohol misuse at 12 months.

METHODS:

Patients (14–18 years of age) at an ED reporting past year alcohol use and aggression were enrolled in the randomized control trial, which included computerized assessment, random assignment to control group or BI delivered by a computer or therapist assisted by a computer. The main outcome measures (at baseline and 12 months) included violence (peer aggression, peer victimization, violence-related consequences) and alcohol (alcohol misuse, binge drinking, alcohol-related consequences).

RESULTS:

A total of 3338 adolescents were screened (88% participation). Of those, 726 screened positive for violence and alcohol use and were randomly selected; 84% completed 12-month follow-up. In comparison with the control group, the therapist assisted by a computer group showed significant reductions in peer aggression (P < .01) and peer victimization (P < .05) at 12 months. BI and control groups did not differ on alcohol-related variables at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

Evaluation of the SafERteens intervention 1 year after an ED visit provides support for the efficacy of computer-assisted therapist brief intervention for reducing peer violence.
Effects of PLGA Nano Patterns on the Responses of Healthy Osteoblasts
Authors: Wang Yongchen , Zhang Lijuan , Sun Linlin , Webster Thomas J.
Published: May 2012

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) films with flat surfaces and with 27nm, 190nm, 300nm, 400nm, and 520nm surface features were synthesized using a template method with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) molds. The nano patterns were transferred from the self-assembled polystyrene beads to the PLGA films through PDMS molds. After synthesis, the nano patterns were confirmed by AFM height scans. In order to investigate the influence of the materials on bone cells, healthy human osteoblasts were cultured on the PLGA films. The 27nm PLGA surface showed the maximum osteoblast adhesion density and a significant increase compared with the other surface features. For these reasons, and since previous studies have highlighted that similar nanometer surface features on PLGA decreased functions of other cancer cells, this study suggests that PLGA with 27nm surface features should be further studied for bone cancer applications where healthy bone cell functions need to be promoted and cancerous bone cell functions inhibited.
Estimation of the hydraulic parameters of unsaturated samples by electrical resistivity tomography
Authors: COSENTINI R.M. , DELLA VECCHIA G. , FOTI S. , MUSSO G.
Published: May 2012

In situ and laboratory experiments have shown that electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) is an effective tool to image transient phenomena in soils. However, its application in quantifying soil hydraulic parameters has been limited. In this study, experiments of water inflow in unsaturated soil samples were conducted in an oedometer equipped to perform three-dimensional electrical measurements. Reconstructions of the electrical conductivity at different times confirmed the usefulness of ERT for monitoring the evolution of water content. The tomographic reconstructions were subsequently used in conjunction with a finite-element simulation to infer the water retention curve and the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity. The parameters estimated with ERT agree satisfactorily with those determined using established techniques, hence the proposed approach shows good potential for relatively fast characterisations. Similar experiments could be carried out on site to study the hydraulic behaviour of the entire soil deposit.
On-sample water content measurement for a complete local monitoring in triaxial testing of unsaturated soils
Authors: MUñOZ-CASTELBLANCO J.A. , DELAGE P. , PEREIRA J.M. , CUI Y.J.
Published: May 2012

To provide a complete local monitoring of the state of an unsaturated soil sample during triaxial testing, a local water content measurement device was adapted to a triaxial device comprising the measurement of local displacements (Hall effect transducers) and suction (high-capacity transducer). Water content was locally monitored by means of a resistivity probe. The water content/resistivity calibration curves of an intact, natural, unsaturated loess from northern France extracted by block sampling at two depths (1 and 3·3 m) were carefully determined, showing good accuracy and repeatability. The validity of two models giving the resistivity of unsaturated soils with respect to their water content was examined. The first triaxial tests carried out with this device in the range of in situ stresses gave satisfactory results, but with some effects of the applied cell stress on the water content measurements. Some preliminary behaviour characteristics of the natural unsaturated loess, a material rarely tested up to now in the literature, were evidenced. Also, the yield stresses appeared significantly higher than the in situ stresses, confirming the combined effect of partial saturation and bonding.
Briefing: An inclusive public realm; an impossible dream or a reality?
Authors: Manley Sandra
Published: May 2012

In 1977 the Silver Jubilee Committee reported that disabled people were disadvantaged through exclusion by design. Thirty five years on and very little has changed. This is despite legislative frameworks to prevent discrimination and with a growing realisation that everyone is disadvantaged by design that fails to take into account inclusive design principles. It is not just disabled people who are affected, but a growing number of elderly people, women, parents and children; in fact we are all disadvantaged. Exclusion from individual buildings is frustrating and infuriating for disabled people and annoying for others, but if the spaces between buildings that act as connections between all human activities fails to work well, this is even more destructive. A high quality public realm is crucial to encourage people to walk or cycle but there is a collective apathy that seems to prevent action for change. No concrete solutions are given that will solve this problem, but some of the reasons for the inertia are examined and professionals whose work impacts on the quality of the built environment are urged to move forward the agenda for change.
Synthesis of thiadiazolobenzamide via cyclization of thioxothiourea and its Ni and Pd complexes
Authors: Adhami Forogh , Nabilzadeh Nasim , Emmerling Franziska , Ghiasi Mina , Heravi Majid
Published: May 2012

In this study, the new compound, N-(3-methyl-4-
oxo[1,3,4]thiadiazolo[2,3-c][1,2,4]triazin-7-yl) benzamide, could be obtained
via two different reactions: 1) reaction of 4-amino-6-Methyl-3-
(Methylsulfanyl)-1,2,4-triazin-5-one with benzoyl isothiocyanate under
removal of methylmercaptane, 2) reaction of 4-amino-6-Methyl-3-thioxo-
1,2,4-triazin-5-one with benzoyl isothiocyanate under elimination of hydrogen
sulfide. In both reactions a new bond between sulfur and nitrogen atoms was
formed and a five-membered ring was created. The oxo thiadiazolo benzamide
was characterized by IR-, 1HNMR- and 13CNMR spectroscopy as well as by Mass
spectrometry. X-ray crystallography was used to shed light on the structure
of this new compound. Two new complexes could be generated by coordination of
oxo thiadiazolo benzamide to Pd(II) and Ni(II) ions. These complexes have
been analyzed by IR-, 1HNMR- and 13CNMR spectroscopy, conductometry and
Thermal gravimetry (TGA). Theoretical QM Calculation GIAO has also been
applied to predict the structure of the Pd complex.
Optimization of cloud point extraction procedure with response surface methodology for quantification of iron by means of flame atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Abdolmohammad-Zadeh Hossein , Naseri Abdolhossein , Sadeghi Golamhossein
Published: May 2012

A simple micelle-mediated phase separation method has been developed for the
pre-concentration of trace levels of iron as a prior step to determination by
flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The method is based on the cloud
point extraction (CPE) of iron using non-ionic surfactant
polyethyleneglycolmono-p-nonylphenylether (PONPE 7.5) without adding any
chelating agent. Several variables affecting the extraction efficiency were
studied and optimized utilizing central composite design (CCD) and three
levels full factorial design. Under the optimum conditions, the limit of
detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ) and pre-concentration factor
were 1.5 ?g L-1, 5.0 ?g L-1 and 100, respectively. The relative standard
deviation (RSD) for six replicate determinations at 50 ?g L?1 Fe(III) level
was 1.97%. The calibration graph was linear in the rage of 5-100 ?g L-1, with
a correlation coefficient of 0.9921. The developed method was validated by
the analysis of two certified reference materials and applied successfully to
the determination of trace amounts of Fe(III) in water and rice samples.
In Vitro Marginal Fit of Three All-Ceramic Crown Systems Before and After Cementation
Authors: Borges GA , Faria JS , Agarwal P , Spohr AM , Correr-Sobrinho L , Miranzi BAS
Published: May 2012

Statement of the Problem

Full-coverage all-ceramic restorations are widely used. The impact of various classifications of luting agent on marginal discrepancies is not well understood.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cervical fit of all ceramic crowns (IPS e.maxPress, Cergogold, and In Ceram) on bovine teeth with two luting agents before and after cementation.

Materials and Methods

Ninety bovine incisors were embedded in resin. The coronal portions of the teeth were prepared to receive full-coverage crowns. Thirty crowns of 7.0 ± 0.5 mm height, 8.0 mm cervical diameter, and 4.2 mm incisal diameter were fabricated for each ceramic system. The crowns were seated on the teeth, and the marginal discrepancy was measured using a measuring microscope. Then, 15 crowns of each ceramic system were luted on the teeth with resin cement (Variolink II) or resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Rely X luting), and the marginal discrepancy was measured. The results were submitted to analysis of variance, t test and Tukey's test (p<0.05).

Results

The three ceramic systems showed cervical fits after cementation statistically inferior to cervical fits before cementation for the two cements. The IPS e.maxPress showed values for cervical fit statistically superior to Cergogold before cementation. No statistically significant difference was found between IPS e.maxPress and In Ceram and In Ceram and Cergogold. After cementation, no statistically significant difference was found for the three ceramics systems when luted with resin or resin-modified glass ionomer luting agents.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that both cements studied increase the marginal discrepancy between the crown and the preparation for the three ceramic systems evaluated.
Comparative Evaluation of Microleakage of Silorane-based Composite and Nanohybrid Composite With or Without Polyethylene Fiber Inserts in Class II Restorations: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Agrawal VS , Parekh VV , Shah NC
Published: May 2012

Aim

To evaluate microleakage between nanocomposite and silorane composite in class II restorations with or without a polyethylene fiber insert.

Methodology

Standardized class II cavities were prepared on extracted molars and randomly divided into 4 groups (n=20 each): group 1, Ceram X mono; group 2, Ceram X mono + Ribbond; group 3, Filtek P90; and Group 4, Filtek P90 + Ribbond. All specimens were subjected to a thermocycling regime, immersed in 2% methylene blue dye for 24 hours, sectioned longitudinally, and examined under a stereomicroscope to assess dye penetration on a six-point scale. The score data were subjected to statistical analysis whereby Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance was used for multiple group comparisons and the Mann-Whitney test for groupwise comparisons at a significance level of p≤0.05.

Results

A statistically significant decrease in microleakage was found when Ribbond fiber was used with nanoceramic and silorane composite. A highly significant decrease in microleakage scores was found in silorane composite when compared to nanoceramic composite.

Conclusion

Use of polyethylene fiber and silorane composite reduces microleakage in class II composite restorations with gingival margins below the cemento-enamel junction.
Influence of Surface Roughness on Mechanical Properties of Two Computer-aided Design/Computer-aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) Ceramic Materials
Authors: Flury S , Peutzfeldt A , Lussi A
Published: May 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of surface roughness on surface hardness (Vickers; VHN), elastic modulus (EM), and flexural strength (FLS) of two computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) ceramic materials. One hundred sixty-two samples of VITABLOCS Mark II (VMII) and 162 samples of IPS Empress CAD (IPS) were ground according to six standardized protocols producing decreasing surface roughnesses (n=27/group): grinding with 1) silicon carbide (SiC) paper #80, 2) SiC paper #120, 3) SiC paper #220, 4) SiC paper #320, 5) SiC paper #500, and 6) SiC paper #1000. Surface roughness (Ra/Rz) was measured with a surface roughness meter, VHN and EM with a hardness indentation device, and FLS with a three-point bending test. To test for a correlation between surface roughness (Ra/Rz) and VHN, EM, or FLS, Spearman rank correlation coefficients were calculated. The decrease in surface roughness led to an increase in VHN from (VMII/IPS; medians) 263.7/256.5 VHN to 646.8/601.5 VHN, an increase in EM from 45.4/41.0 GPa to 66.8/58.4 GPa, and an increase in FLS from 49.5/44.3 MPa to 73.0/97.2 MPa. For both ceramic materials, Spearman rank correlation coefficients showed a strong negative correlation between surface roughness (Ra/Rz) and VHN or EM and a moderate negative correlation between Ra/Rz and FLS. In conclusion, a decrease in surface roughness generally improved the mechanical properties of the CAD/CAM ceramic materials tested. However, FLS was less influenced by surface roughness than expected.
The Effect of Prophylaxis Method on Microtensile Bond Strength of Indirect Restorations to Dentin
Authors: Soares CJ , Pereira JC , Souza SJB , Menezes MS , Armstrong SR
Published: May 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different materials used for dentin prophylaxis on the microtensile bond strengths (μTBS) of adhesively cemented indirect composite restorations. Sixty bovine incisors had the buccal surface ground with wet #600-grit silicon carbide abrasive paper to obtain a flat exposed superficial dentin and were submitted to different prophylaxis protocols, as follows: 3% hydrogen peroxide (HydP); 0.12% chlorhexidine (Chlo); sodium bicarbonate jet (SodB); 50-μm aluminum oxide air abrasion (AirA); pumice paste (PumP), and control group–water spray (Cont). After prophylaxis protocols a resin composite block (3.0 mm × 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) was adhesively cemented using dual resin cement (Rely X ARC). After 24 hours of water storage, specimens were serially sectioned perpendicular to the bonded interface into 1-mm-thick slices. Each specimen was trimmed with a diamond bur to an hourglass shape with a cross-sectional area of approximately 1.0 mm2 at the bonded area. Specimens were tested (μTBS) at 0.5 mm/min using a universal testing machine. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the effects of prophylaxis techniques on dentin. Bond strength data (MPa) were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and failure mode by Fisher test (α=0.05). μTBS data, means (SD), were (different superscripted letters indicate statistically significant differences): AirA, 25.2 (7.2)a; PumP, 24.1 (7.8)a; Chlo, 21.5 (5.6)a; Cont, 20.6 (8.1)a; HydP, 15.5 (7.6)b; and SodB, 11.5 (4.4)c. The use of aluminum oxide air abrasion, pumice paste, and chlorhexidine before acid etching did not significantly affect μTBS to dentin; however, the use of hydrogen peroxide and sodium bicarbonate jet significantly reduced μTBS.
To the Validation of the Name Prenantho Purpurei-Coryletum Avellanae: (Hacquetia 10/2: 149-170, 2011)
Authors: Kliment Ján , Jarolímek Ivan
Published: May 2012

To the Validation of the Name Prenantho Purpurei-Coryletum Avellanae: (Hacquetia 10/2: 149-170, 2011)
Conspectus of Vegetation Syntaxa in Slovenia
Authors: Šilc Urban , Čarni Andraž
Published: May 2012

Conspectus of Vegetation Syntaxa in Slovenia

For the first time, an overview of plant communities in Slovenia is presented according to the Braun-Blanquet approach. In total 588 associations (and some communities classified into higher syntaxa) belonging to 51 classes have been registered in Slovenia. Additionally 149 syntaxa are mentioned as registered in the field or in, the literature, but not documented with relevé material. Syntaxonomical classification is based on the "EuroChecklist" and includes also the Slovenian written definition of the high-rank syntaxa.
Role of a Food Box Program: In Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and Food Security
Authors: Miewald Christiana , Holben David , Hall Peter
Published: May 2012

Purpose: We examined whether participation in a food box program has a positive effect on fruit and vegetable consumption and food security.

Methods: Participants and nonparticipants in a food box program were surveyed to determine differences between the two groups and change over time.

Results: Fruit and vegetable intake declined in those who left the program after several months, and intake of fruit, carrots, and vegetables was lower among those who had left than among those who remained in the program. Food insecurity was associated with lower intakes of fruit and vegetables.

Conclusions: Participation in a food box program can provide some benefit in terms of increased fruit and vegetable consumption for those who use the program regularly. Increasing the frequency of the box and encouraging continued use may improve these effects.
Food Consumption Patterns: In Preschool Children
Authors: Pabayo Roman , Spence John C. , Casey Linda , Storey Kate
Published: May 2012

Purpose: Healthy eating during early childhood is important for growth and development. Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide (CFG) provides dietary recommendations. We investigated patterns of food consumption among preschool children and attempted to determine whether these children's intakes met nutrition recommendations.

Methods: Between 2005 and 2007, four- and five-year-old children (n=2015) attending 12 Edmonton-region public health units for immunization were recruited for a longitudinal study on determinants of childhood obesity. The children's dietary intake at baseline was assessed using parental reports.

Results: Overall, 29.6%, 23.5%, 90.9%, and 94.2% of the children met recommendations for vegetables and fruit, grain products, milk and alternatives, and meat and alternatives, respectively. In addition, 79.5% consumed at least one weekly serving of foods in the “choose least often” group. Significant differences existed in consumption of food groups across socioeconomic and demographic groups. For example, 82.9%, 84.7%, and 75.9% of preschool children from neighbourhoods of low, medium, and high socioeconomic status, respectively, consumed at least one food in the “choose least often” group (χ2 =16.2, p<0.001).

Conclusions: Consumption of vegetables and fruit and grain products was low among participants, and intake of “choose least often” foods was high. Consumption of foods also differed among socioeconomic and demographic groups. To encourage healthy eating among children, public health professionals should target groups who do not meet the CFG recommendations.
Inadequate Dietary Intakes: Among Pregnant Women
Authors: Fowler Jennifer K. , Evers Susan E. , Campbell M. Karen
Published: May 2012

Purpose: Eating behaviours were assessed among pregnant women in a mid-sized Canadian city.

Methods: As part of the Prenatal Health Project, we interviewed 2313 pregnant women in London, Ontario. Subjects also completed a food frequency questionnaire. Recruitment took place in ultrasound clinics at 10 to 22 weeks of gestation. The main outcome measures were number of daily servings for each food group, measured against the minimum number recommended by the 2007 Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide (CFG), the proportion of women consuming the recommended number of servings for each and all of the four food groups, and factors associated with adequate consumption. We also determined the number of servings of “other foods.” Analysis included descriptive statistics and logistic regression, all at p<0.05.

Results: A total of 3.5% of women consumed the recommended number of servings for all four food groups; 15.3% did not consume the minimum number of servings of foods for any of the four food groups. Women for whom this was their first pregnancy were less likely to consume the recommended number of servings from all four food groups (odds ratio=0.41; confidence interval=0.23, 0.74).

Conclusions: Very few pregnant women consumed food group servings consistent with the 2007 recommendations. Strategies to improve dietary behaviours must focus on the establishment of healthy eating behaviours among women of reproductive age.
Body Image, Body Mass Index, and Body Composition: In Young Adults
Authors: Streeter Veronica M. , Milhausen Robin R. , Buchholz Andrea C.
Published: May 2012

Purpose: Associations were examined between body image and body mass index (BMI) in comparison with body composition in healthy weight, overweight, and obese young adults.

Methods: Weight and height were determined, and the percentage of fat mass (%FM) and percentage of fat-free mass (%FFM) were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in 75 male and 87 female young adults (21.1 ± 1.9 years; 25.2 ± 4.4 kg/m2[mean ± standard deviation]). Body image was measured using the three subscales Weight Esteem, Appearance Esteem, and External Attribution of the Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults (BESAA).

Results: Body mass index and %FM were highly correlated (r for males = 0.74, r for females = 0.82; both p<0.001), and were inversely associated with body image, particularly Weight Esteem. After adjustment for physical activity, BMI and %FM (and %FFM, although in the opposite direction) were associated with each BESAA subscale: %FM, %FFM, and BMI explained 12% to14% of the variance in Appearance Esteem for both sexes, 33% to 41% in Weight Esteem in women and 16% to 18% in men, and 8% to 10% in External Attribution in women (all p<0.05) and <5% for men (NS).

Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware that as their clients’ BMI and %FM increase, body image decreases, particularly in women.
Optimization of the Extraction of Anthocyanins from the Fruit Skin of Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Ait.) Hassk and Identification of Anthocyanins in the Extract Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS)
Authors: Liu Guo-Ling , Guo Hong-Hui , Sun Yuan-Ming
Published: May 2012

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring polyphenols that impart bright color to fruits, vegetables and plants. In this study, the extraction of anthocyanins from freeze-dried fruit skin of downy rose-myrtle (Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Ait.) Hassk var. Gangren) was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). Using 60% ethanol containing 0.1% (v/v) hydrochloric acid as extraction solvent, the optimal conditions for maximum yields of anthocyanin (4.358 ± 0.045 mg/g) were 15.7:1 (v/w) liquid to solid ratio, 64.38 °C with a 116.88 min extraction time. The results showed good fits with the proposed model for the anthocyanin extraction (R2 = 0.9944). Furthermore, the results of high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS) analysis of the anthocyanins extracted from the fruit skin of downy rose-myrtle revealed the presence of five anthocyanin components, which were tentatively identified as delphinidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-glucoside, peonidin-3-glucoside, petunidin-3-glucoside and malvidin-3-glucoside.
Transformation-Induced Creep and Creep Recovery of Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Takeda Kohei , Tobushi Hisaaki , Pieczyska Elzbieta A.
Published: May 2012

If the shape memory alloy is subjected to the subloop loading under the stress-controlled condition, creep and creep recovery can appear based on the martensitic transformation. In the design of shape memory alloy elements, these deformation properties are important since the deflection of shape memory alloy elements can change under constant stress. The conditions for the progress of the martensitic transformation are discussed based on the kinetics of the martensitic transformation for the shape memory alloy. During loading under constant stress rate, temperature increases due to the stress-induced martensitic transformation. If stress is held constant during the martensitic transformation stage in the loading process, temperature decreases and the condition for the progress of the martensitic transformation is satisfied, resulting in the transformation-induced creep deformation. If stress is held constant during the reverse transformation stage in the unloading process, creep recovery appears due to the reverse transformation. The details for these thermomechanical properties are investigated experimentally for TiNi shape memory alloy, which is most widely used in practical applications. The volume fraction of the martensitic phase increases in proportion to an increase in creep strain.
In Silico Analysis of Microarray-Based Gene Expression Profiles Predicts Tumor Cell Response to Withanolides
Authors: Efferth Thomas , Greten Henry Johannes
Published: May 2012

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Indian ginseng, winter cherry, Solanaceae) is widely used in traditional medicine. Roots are either chewed or used to prepare beverages (aqueous decocts). The major secondary metabolites of Withania somnifera are the withanolides, which are C-28-steroidal lactone triterpenoids. Withania somnifera extracts exert chemopreventive and anticancer activities in vitro and in vivo. The aims of the present in silico study were, firstly, to investigate whether tumor cells develop cross-resistance between standard anticancer drugs and withanolides and, secondly, to elucidate the molecular determinants of sensitivity and resistance of tumor cells towards withanolides. Using IC50 concentrations of eight different withanolides (withaferin A, withaferin A diacetate, 3-azerininylwithaferin A, withafastuosin D diacetate, 4-B-hydroxy-withanolide E, isowithanololide E, withafastuosin E, and withaperuvin) and 19 established anticancer drugs, we analyzed the cross-resistance profile of 60 tumor cell lines. The cell lines revealed cross-resistance between the eight withanolides. Consistent cross-resistance between withanolides and nitrosoureas (carmustin, lomustin, and semimustin) was also observed. Then, we performed transcriptomic microarray-based COMPARE and hierarchical cluster analyses of mRNA expression to identify mRNA expression profiles predicting sensitivity or resistance towards withanolides. Genes from diverse functional groups were significantly associated with response of tumor cells to withaferin A diacetate, e.g. genes functioning in DNA damage and repair, stress response, cell growth regulation, extracellular matrix components, cell adhesion and cell migration, constituents of the ribosome, cytoskeletal organization and regulation, signal transduction, transcription factors, and others.
Ipomoea aquatica Extract Shows Protective Action Against Thioacetamide-Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Alkiyumi Salim Said , Abdullah Mahmood Ameen , Alrashdi Ahmed Salim , Salama Suzy Munir , Abdelwahab Siddig Ibrahim , Hadi A. Hamid A.
Published: May 2012

In the Indian system of traditional medicine (Ayurveda) it is recommended to consume Ipomoea aquatica to mitigate disorders like jaundice. In this study, the protective effects of ethanol extract of I. aquatica against liver damage were evaluated in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced chronic hepatotoxicity in rats. There was no sign of toxicity in the acute toxicity study, in which Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were orally fed with I. aquatica (250 and 500 mg/kg) for two months along with administration of TAA (i.p injection 200 mg/kg three times a week for two months). The results showed that the treatment of I. aquatica significantly lowered the TAA-induced serum levels of hepatic enzyme markers (ALP, ALT, AST, protein, albumin, bilirubin and prothrombin time). The hepatic content of activities and expressions SOD and CAT that were reduced by TAA were brought back to control levels by the plant extract supplement. Meanwhile, the rise in MDA level in the TAA receiving groups also were significantly reduced by I. aquatica treatment. Histopathology of hepatic tissues by H&E and Masson trichrome stains displayed that I. aquatica has reduced the incidence of liver lesions, including hepatic cells cloudy swelling, infiltration, hepatic necrosis, and fibrous connective tissue proliferation induced by TAA in rats. Therefore, the results of this study show that the protective effect of I. aquatica in TAA-induced liver damage might be contributed to its modulation on detoxification enzymes and its antioxidant and free radical scavenger effects. Moreover, it confirms a scientific basis for the traditional use of I. aquatica for the treatment of liver disorders.
Tip-Jump Response of an Amplitude-Modulated Atomic Force Microscope
Authors: Shih Po-Jen
Published: May 2012

The dynamic behaviors of an Atomic Force Microscope are of interest, and variously unpredictable phenomena are experimentally measured. In practical measurements, researchers have proposed many methods for avoiding these uncertainties. However, causes of these phenomena are still hard to demonstrate in simulation. To demonstrate these phenomena, this paper claims the tip-jump motion is a predictable process, and the jumping kinetic energy results in different nonlinear phenomena. It emphasizes the variation in the eigenvalues of an AFM with tip-sample distance. This requirement ensures the phase transformations from one associated with the oscillation mode to one associated with the tip-jump/sample-contact mode. Also, multi-modal analysis was utilized to ensure the modal transformation in varying tip-sample distances. In the presented model, oscillations with various tip-sample distances and with various excitation frequencies and amplitudes were compared. The results reveal that the tip-jump motion separates the oscillation orbit into two regions, and the jumping kinetic energy, comparing with the superficial potential energy, leads the oscillation to be bistable or intermittent. The sample-contact condition associates to bifurcation and chaos. Additionally, the jumping is a strong motion that occurrs before the tip-sample contacts, and this motion signal can replace the sample-contact-signal to avoid destroying the sample.
Blurred Star Image Processing for Star Sensors under Dynamic Conditions
Authors: Zhang Weina , Quan Wei , Guo Lei
Published: May 2012

The precision of star point location is significant to identify the star map and to acquire the aircraft attitude for star sensors. Under dynamic conditions, star images are not only corrupted by various noises, but also blurred due to the angular rate of the star sensor. According to different angular rates under dynamic conditions, a novel method is proposed in this article, which includes a denoising method based on adaptive wavelet threshold and a restoration method based on the large angular rate. The adaptive threshold is adopted for denoising the star image when the angular rate is in the dynamic range. Then, the mathematical model of motion blur is deduced so as to restore the blurred star map due to large angular rate. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, which is suitable for blurred star image processing and practical for attitude determination of satellites under dynamic conditions.
When Should We Care About Sustainability? Applying Human Security as the Decisive Criterion
Authors: Lautensach Alexander K. , Lautensach Sabina W.
Published: May 2012

It seems intuitively clear that not all human endeavours warrant equal concern over the extent of their sustainability. This raises the question about what criteria might best serve for their prioritisation. We refute, on empirical and theoretical grounds, the counterclaim that sustainability should be of no concern regardless of the circumstances. Human security can serve as a source of criteria that are both widely shared and can be assessed in a reasonably objective manner. Using established classifications, we explore how four forms of sustainability (environmental, economic, social, and cultural) relate to the four pillars of human security (environmental, economic, sociopolitical, and health-related). Our findings, based on probable correlations, suggest that the criteria of human security allow for a reliable discrimination between relatively trivial incidences of unsustainable behavior and those that warrant widely shared serious concern. They also confirm that certain sources of human insecurity, such as poverty or violent conflict, tend to perpetuate unsustainable behavior, a useful consideration for the design of development initiatives. Considering that human security enjoys wide and increasing political support among the international community, it is to be hoped that by publicizing the close correlation between human security and sustainability greater attention will be paid to the latter and to its careful definition.
Diagrammatics in Art and Mathematics
Authors: Sazdanovic Radmila
Published: May 2012

This paper explores two-way relations between visualizations in mathematics and mathematical art, as well as art in general. A collection of vignettes illustrates connection points, including visualizing higher dimensions, tessellations, knots and links, plotting zeros of polynomials, and new and rapidly developing mathematical discipline, diagrammatic categorification.
Dichos y hechos: tácticas de la obediencia en el Cantar de mio Cid
Authors: Montaner Alberto
Published: May 2012

La obediencia del héroe en el Cantar de mio Cid es una decisión táctica, no estratégica, a partir de la cual se desarrolla un proceso de persuasión de la voluntad regia que contrarrestará el efectuado por los malos mestureros gracias al predominio de las obras sobre las palabras.