bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmental lumbar sagittal correction after bilateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Yson Sharon C. , Santos Edward Rainier G. , Sembrano Jonathan N. , Polly David W.
Published: May 2012

Object

In this paper the authors sought to determine the segmental lumbar sagittal contour change after bilateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF).

Methods

Between March 2007 and October 2010, 42 consecutive patients (57 levels) underwent bilateral TLIF. Standard preoperative and 6-week postoperative standing lumbar spine radiographs were examined. Preoperative and postoperative segmental lordosis was determined by manual measurements using the Cobb method. The difference between the preoperative and postoperative values were calculated and analyzed for statistical significance.

Results

The mean preoperative segmental alignment was 8.1°. The mean postoperative alignment was 15.3°, with a mean correction of 7.2° per segment. The largest gain in lordosis was obtained at the L5–S1 level (10.1°). There was a significant difference between the preoperative and postoperative values (p = 5 × 10−9). There was no significant difference in mean segmental correction between levels. Improvement in lordosis was higher in multilevel fusions (9.8°) than in single-level fusions (5.2°) (p = 0.047). There was an inverse correlation between preoperative sagittal lordosis measurement and change in lordosis (r = −0.599).

Conclusions

A significant improvement in lumbar lordosis can be gained by preforming bilateral facetectomies in TLIF with posterior compression. This procedure provides an additional option to a spine surgeon's armamentarium in dealing with significant lumbar sagittal plane deformities.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae paravertebral abscess
Authors: Low Sharon Y. Y. , Ong Catherine W. M. , Hsueh Po-Ren , Tambyah Paul Ananth , Yeo Tseng Tsai
Published: May 2012

The authors present the case of an isolated gonococcal paravertebral abscess with an epidural component in a 42-year-old man. A primary epidural abscess of the spine is a rare condition and is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. In this report, the authors present their therapeutic decisions and review the relevant literature on disseminated gonococcal infection in a patient presenting with an epidural abscess.

A 42-year-old Indonesian man was admitted with symptoms of neck and upper back pain and bilateral lower-limb weakness. Clinical examination was unremarkable apart from tenderness over the lower cervical spine. Postgadolinium T1-weighted MRI of the cervical and thoracic spine demonstrated an enhancing lesion in the right paraspinal and epidural soft tissue at C-6 to T1–2, in keeping with a spinal epidural abscess. The patient underwent laminectomy of C-7 and T-1 with abscess drainage. Tissue cultures subsequently grew Neisseria gonorrhoeae that was resistant to quinolones by genotyping. Upon further questioning, the patient admitted to unprotected sexual intercourse with commercial sex workers. Further investigations showed that he was negative for other sexually transmitted infections. Postoperatively, he received a course of beta-lactam antibiotics with good recovery. Clinicians should be aware of this unusual disseminated gonococcal infection manifested in any patient with the relevant risk factors.
Drowning - The silent killer
Authors: Rasul CH
Published: May 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmjk.v44i1-2.10466Bang Med J (Khulna) 2011: 44(1&2) 1-2
Maternal complications of menstrual regulation
Authors: Biswas SP , Begum B , Bakshi KK
Published: May 2012

This prospective observational study was done in Obstetrics and Gynecology unit in Kalaroa Health Complex, Kalaroa & Sadar Hospital, Satkhira from 1st January 2009 to 30th June 2010. The aim of it was to evaluate complications due to menstrual regulation (MR) risk factors for complications, immediate morbidities and mortality & management pattern. Total number of admission was 773, out of which only MR complications was 6.46%. Within this group, 96% patients belonged to 20 to 40 years age group, 84% were multipara. Gestational age in between 7 to 9 weeks was recorded in 72% and in 50% cases, MR was performed in private chamber, 12% patients was suffering from only pervaginal bleeding with nonfatal complications. Shock and acute abdomen due to visceral injury was 26% in which abdominal surgery was done in 12% cases. 94% patients improved after comprehensive management. Death was recorded in 6% cases. MR complications still remain an important cause of maternal morbidities and mortality in Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmjk.v44i1-2.10469 Bang Med J (Khulna) 2011: 44(1&2) 11-14
Apert Syndrome
Authors: Mostafa KG , Rasul CH , Baruri NN , Rahman SM
Published: May 2012

Apert syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant malformation. In the recent past we encountered a boy of 16 months with fusion of both fingers and toes, dysmorphic facial features presenting with cough and respiratory distress in Khulna Medical College hospital. Considering the general paucity of cases of acrocephalosyndactyly in the Bangladeshi literature, this case demands reporting. Careful evaluation is necessary in a doubtful case to optimize the treatment.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmjk.v44i1-2.10473Bang Med J (Khulna) 2011: 44(1&2) 25-27
Breadth of knowledge vs. grades: What best predicts achievement in the first year of health sciences programmes?
Authors: Shulruf Boaz , Li Meisong , McKimm Judy , Smith Melinda
Published: May 2012

This study aimed to identify those features within secondary school curricula and assessment, particularly science subjects that best predict academic achievement in the first year of three different three-year undergraduate health professional programmes (nursing, pharmacy, and health sciences) at a large New Zealand university. In particular, this study compared the contribution of breadth of knowledge (number of credits acquired) versus grade level (grade point average) and explored the impact of demographic variables on achievement. The findings indicated that grades are the most important factor predicting student success in the first year of university. Although taking biology and physics at secondary school has some impact on university first year achievement, the effect is relatively minor.
Modeling and Performance Analysis to Predict the Behavior of a Divisible Load Application in a Cloud Computing Environment
Authors: Ismail Leila , Zhang Liren
Published: May 2012

Cloud computing is an emerging technology where IT resources are virtualized to users as a set of a unified computing resources on a pay per use basis. The resources are dynamically chosen to satisfy a user Service Level Agreement and a required level of performance. Divisible load applications occur in many scientific and engineering applications and can easily be mapped to a Cloud using a master-worker pattern. However, those applications pose challenges to obtain the required performance. We model divisible load applications tasks processing on a set of cloud resources. We derive a novel model and formulas for computing the blocking probability in the system. The formulas are useful to analyze and predict the behavior of a divisible load application on a chosen set of resources to satisfy a Service Level Agreement before the implementation phase, thus saving time and platform energy. They are also useful as a dynamic feedback to a cloud scheduler for optimal scheduling. We evaluate the model in a set of illustrative scenarios.
Evaluation of Net Energy Obtainable from Combustion of Stabilised Olive Mill By-Products
Authors: Messineo Antonio , Volpe Roberto , Asdrubali Francesco
Published: May 2012

This work is aimed at calculating the energy content of the residues from olive oil production. Olive pulp, olive husk and sludge (a mixture of olive pulp and husk) have been analyzed separately. Olive Mill Effluents (OME) are normally a problem for olive mill farms, yet they may be used as feedstock for biomass-fuelled power plants. Nonetheless, OMEs are characterized by a relatively high humidity content and are produced only during the olive season. Thus, OME need a stabilization process to be employed as a solid biofuel throughout the year. The analyses conducted attempt an evaluation of the energy consumption of a three-stage stabilization process: drying, milling and pelletising. The net electrical energy available from OME is then calculated as a difference between gross energy available and energy consumed for stabilization. The gross available electrical energy was calculated based on direct energy conversion of the stabilized feedstock on a small scale direct combustion and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) turbine. Results show that OME are suitable for energy production. Approximately 4500 kJ/kg of net electrical energy may be obtained out of olive sludge or olive pulp, while olive husk shows a potential gross energy of 3400 kJ/kg.
Characterization of CdTe Films Deposited at Various Bath Temperatures and Concentrations Using Electrophoretic Deposition
Authors: Daud Mohd Norizam Md , Zakaria Azmi , Jafari Atefeh , Ghazali Mohd Sabri Mohd , Abdullah Wan Rafizah Wan , Zainal Zulkarnain
Published: May 2012

CdTe film was deposited using the electrophoretic deposition technique onto an ITO glass at various bath temperatures. Four batch film compositions were used by mixing 1 to 4 wt% concentration of CdTe powder with 10 mL of a solution of methanol and toluene. X-ray Diffraction analysis showed that the films exhibited polycrystalline nature of zinc-blende structure with the (111) orientation as the most prominent peak. From the Atomic Force Microscopy, the thickness and surface roughness of the CdTe film increased with the increase of CdTe concentration. The optical energy band gap of film decreased with the increase of CdTe concentration, and with the increase of isothermal bath temperature. The film thickness increased with respect to the increase of CdTe concentration and bath temperature, and following, the numerical expression for the film thickness with respect to these two variables has been established.
Gastroprotective Effect of Selenium on Ethanol-Induced Gastric Damage in Rats
Authors: Kim Jeong-Hwan , Park Shin-Hyung , Nam Soo-Wan , Choi Yung-Hyun
Published: May 2012

In the present study, we examined the gastroprotective effect of selenium against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions in rats. The gastric mucosal lesions were produced by oral administration with various concentrations of ethanol for three days, and 80% ethanol treatment was determined to be the optimal condition for induction of gastric damage. To identify the protective effect of selenium on ethanol-induced gastric damage, various doses of selenium were given as pretreatment for three days, and then gastric damage was induced by 80% ethanol treatment. Selenium showed a protective effect against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions in a dose dependent manner. Specifically, 100 μg/kg selenium showed the highest level of gastroprotection. In addition, selenium markedly attenuated ethanol-induced lipid peroxidation in gastric mucosa and increased activities of radical scavenging enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in a dose-dependent manner. Histological data showed that 100 μg/kg selenium distinctly reduced the depth and severity of the ethanol induced gastric lesion. These results clearly demonstrate that selenium inhibits the formation of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions through prevention of lipid peroxidation and activation of enzymatic radical scavenging.
Diamond-Structured Photonic Crystals with Graded Air Spheres Radii
Authors: Liang Qingxuan , Li Dichen , Han Haoxue
Published: May 2012

A diamond-structured photonic crystal (PC) with graded air spheres radii was fabricated successfully by stereolithography (SL) and gel-casting process. The graded radii in photonic crystal were formed by uniting different radii in photonic crystals with a uniform radius together along the Г‑Х direction. The stop band was observed between 26.1 GHz and 34.3 GHz by reflection and transmission measurements in the direction. The result agreed well with the simulation attained by the Finite Integration Technique (FIT). The stop band width was 8.2 GHz and the resulting gap/midgap ratio was 27.2%, which became respectively 141.4% and 161.9% of the perfect PC. The results indicate that the stop band width of the diamond-structured PC can be expanded by graded air spheres radii along the Г‑Х direction, which is beneficial to develop a multi bandpass filter.
An Approach for Representing Sensor Data to Validate Alerts in Ambient Assisted Living
Authors: Muñoz Andrés , Serrano Emilio , Villa Ana , Valdés Mercedes , Botía Juan A.
Published: May 2012

The mainstream of research in Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) is devoted to developing intelligent systems for processing the data collected through artificial sensing. Besides, there are other elements that must be considered to foster the adoption of AAL solutions in real environments. In this paper we focus on the problem of designing interfaces among caregivers and AAL systems. We present an alert management tool that supports carers in their task of validating alarms raised by the system. It generates text-based explanations—obtained through an argumentation process—of the causes leading to alarm activation along with graphical sensor information and 3D models, thus offering complementary types of information. Moreover, a guideline to use the tool when validating alerts is also provided. Finally, the functionality of the proposed tool is demonstrated through two real cases of alert.
The Art of the Qur'an in Banten: Calligraphy and Illumination
Authors: Teh Gallop Annabel , Akbar Ali
Published: May 2012

Annabel Teh Gallop, The British Library, London & Ali Akbar, Office for Research, Development and Training, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Jakarta The Art of the Qur'an in Banten: Calligraphy and Illumination

Cet article traite de treize copies du Coran de Banten, datant pour la plupart du XVIIIe s. et qui, par bien des aspects, diffèrent de celles des autres pays d'Asie du Sud-Est. Dans ce corpus, deux groupes peuvent être identifiés : l'un constitué par de très grandes copies destinées à des institutions publiques, et l'autre par de plus petites, plus proches de la norme nousantarienne. On peut sans doute dire que le trait le plus caractéristique de ces copies du Coran de Banten est la qualité de la calligraphie du texte arabe qui atteint ici un niveau rarement rencontré en Insulinde. On peut même considérer qu'il existe, en ce qui concerne la calligraphie, un «style de Banten» appelé «Naskhï de Banten». En revanche, si on juge les plus belles copies d'Asie du Sud-Est par leurs enluminures, à Banten ce sont apparemment d'autres canons esthétiques qui ont prévalu, marqués par la primauté accordée à la calligraphie.
L’Art Déco en Indonésie. Un imaginaire de la modernité
Authors: Hamonic Gilbert
Published: May 2012

Following an itinerary of illustrations, this article attempts to show how a new modernism was introduced into Indonesia. Setting this early twentieth-century artistic encounter in the context of the Archipelago, it analyses the social milieus that ushered in modernity, focusing on an elite composed of some members of local aristocracy, the privileged class of Western residents, Chinese people, and Eurasians (Indo). Finally, it assesses the impact of those influences, analysing the things that struck the eyes of the inhabitants (architecture, cinema, furniture, sculpture, graphic design).
Gold Looted and Excavated from Late (1300 AD-1600 AD) Pre-Islamic Makasar Graves
Authors: A. Bougas Wayne
Published: May 2012

L’auteur décrit les objets en or exhumés lors de pillages et de fouilles de tombes préislamiques (1300-1600) de Makasar. Après avoir envisagé la provenance du métal, il passe en revue les différents types d’articles trouvés: masques mortuaires, opercules pour yeux et bouche, assortiment de joaillerie (bracelets, colliers, anneaux, boucles d’oreille, etc.). Il examine ensuite la place de l’or dans la société préislamique de Makasar et envisage le rôle de celui-ci dans les pratiques rituelles funéraires, puisque ce métal provient de tombes. L’auteur conclut que l’or est apparu à Célèbes Sud durant la période préislamique tardive et note que ce fait met en évidence l’existence de contacts commerciaux avec Java et les Philippines d’une part, et la stratification grandissante de la société makasaraise de l’autre.
Cultural Links between Insulindian Chinese and Fujian as Reflected in Two Late 17th-Century Epigraphs
Authors: Lombard-Salmon Claudine
Published: May 2012

L’article pose le problème des relations culturelles entre le Fujian et les Chinois d’Insulinde à la fin du XVIIe siècle, à un moment où les contacts entre la Chine et les Mers du Sud se redéployent après une période durant laquelle le commerce privé dans cette zone avait été prohibé et la population côtière contrainte à se replier à l’intérieur des terres. Dans un premier temps est envisagée la vie socioreligieuse des Chinois d’Insulinde. Il apparaît que malgré des pressions politiques diverses, les émigrés avaient plutôt tendance à conserver leurs croyances et à créer sur place, selon le procédé dit de la «division de l’encens et du feu (ou des lampes)», des sanctuaires où honorer des divinités importées de la mère-patrie. Dans un deuxième temps, l’article traite du sentiment de ces Chinois d’Insulinde pour leur pays natal, tel qu’il est reflété par le fait que les plus riches d’entre eux se cotisèrent pour restaurer deux temples dilapidés et firent graver des inscriptions commémoratives dans lesquelles ils s’identifièrent comme une élite de la diaspora; une telle audace fut, semble-t-il, rapidement découragée par les autorités et ne réapparaîtra qu’au cours du XIXe siècle, lorsque la politique à l’égard des émigrés aura changé.
Le programme archéologique franco-indonésien sur Padang Lawas (Sumatra Nord). Réflexions préliminaires
Authors: Perret Daniel , Surachman Heddy , Partanda Koestoro Lucas , Susetyo Sukawati
Published: May 2012

Daniel Perret, École française d’Extrême-Orient, Paris. Lucas P. Koestoro, Balai Arkeologi, Medan. Heddy Surachman & Sukawati Susetyo, Pusat Penelitian dan Pengembangan Arkeologi Nasional Indonesia, Jakarta

Le programme archéologique franco-indonésien sur Padang Lawas (Sumatra Nord). Réflexions préliminaires

The Padang Lawas area in the North Sumatra Province has been known since the middle of the 19th century for its numerous Hindu-Buddhist remains located on the upper course of the Barumun river basin, at the foot of the Barisan range. This paper begins with a brief review of the research on architecture, art and inscriptions conducted in Padang Lawas during the last century. Suggested datings for the temples by previous authors range from the 11th to the 14th century and some indications point to the practice of Vajrayåna Buddhism, Sivaism and a Buddhist-Sivaist syncretism. By contrast, researches on ancient settlements in Padang Lawas started much more recently, less than ten years ago in fact, with the rediscovery of a complex system of earthen walls and moats at Si Pamutung. The promising results of the first test-pits did encourage the launching in 2006 of the second phase of a joint French-Indonesian archaeological program focused on the ancient settlements of Tapanuli since 2001. Pottery, Chinese ceramics, glass, beads and terra-cottas, as well as the remains of a brick structure were found during this first campaign. These finds confirm that Si Pamutung was a major settlement in Padang Lawas. These first results raise questions on the chronology, the nature and the structure of the Si Pamutung settlement itself. In addition, their combination with previous data brings new hypotheses regarding the population of Padang Lawas, its connection with coastal settlements in the region and its relation with neighbouring economic and political power, as well as farther centres in Asia.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy in Indonesia – Some Sidelights
Authors: Lombard-Salmon Claudine , Sidharta Myra
Published: May 2012

Claudine Salmon, Centre nationl de la Recherche scientifique, Paris & Myra Sidharta,

Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy in Indonesia. Some Sidelights

Le commerce des plantes et autres produits médicinaux en Asie, et plus particulièrement entre la Chine et les contrées d’Asie du Sud-Est, remonte à la nuit des temps. Il semble bien que les médecins chinois aient commencé très tôt à se rendre dans les pays des Mers du Sud. Les chroniques ont gardé le souvenir de certains d’entre eux restés célèbres pour avoir guéri plusieurs souverains. Lorsque l’amiral Zheng He entreprit ses grandes expéditions maritimes au début du XVe s., il engagea 180 médecins qui avaient pour mission de veiller aux conditions sanitaires des équipages, mais aussi d’étudier les médecines des contrées visitées. Les sources européennes mentionnent la présence de pharmaciens à Manille, dès la fin du XVIe s., de médecins chinois au service des souverains du Siam, mais aussi des grands employés de la VOC au siècle suivant. Dans cet article, nous avons tenté de retracer l’histoire du développement de la médecine chinoise en Indonésie depuis le XVIIe s. et d’étudier comment le renouveau de ce savoir s’est opéré depuis la fin des années 1970. Pour ce faire, nous avons été amenées à porter notre attention sur les implications sociopolitiques de ce renouveau, ainsi que sur les tensions engendrées par les oppositions entre les tenants de la médecine occidentale, et ceux de la médecine chinoise, depuis le tout début du XXe s. et, finalement, les conditions économiques qui ont permis ce renouveau, tant en Chine qu’en Insulinde. Cette démarche nous a également amenées à étudier la pharmacie chinoise, vu que celle-ci est étroitement liée à la pratique de la médecine traditionnelle.
Radial wood allocation inSchizolobium parahyba
Authors: Williamson G. Bruce , Wiemann Michael C. , Geaghan James P.
Published: May 2012

•Premise of the study:Pioneer species of tropical trees allocate wood specific gravity (SG) differently across the radius. Some species exhibit relatively uniform, low SG wood, whereas many others exhibit linear increases in SG across the radius. Here, we measured changes in SG across the radius ofSchizolobium parahyba(Fabaceae‐Caesalpinioideae), a wide‐ranging, neotropical pioneer, used extensively in land reclamation and forest restoration in Brazil.

•Methods:Pith‐to‐bark radial wood cores were extracted with increment borers from 42 trees at five sites, in Central and South America. Cores were cut into 1‐cm segments whose specific gravities were determined and analyzed via linear and nonlinear regression. Wood specific gravity, very low initially at 0.15‐0.20, doubled or tripled across the tree radius to 0.45‐0.65 for large adults.

•Key results:Unlike linear increases in other tropical pioneers, the increases inSchizolobiumwere nonlinear (convex up). At one site with even‐aged trees, the magnitude of the radial increase was similar in all trees, despite a 4‐fold difference in diameter among trees, implying that the radial increases inSchizolobiumwere regulated by tree age, not by tree size.

•Conclusions:This unique pattern of development should provide an extended period of growth when SG is low, facilitating hyper‐extension of the bole, at some risk of structural failure. Later in growth, the SG rate of increase accelerates, reinforcing what was a precarious bole. Overall, these results suggest a third model for xylem allocation in tropical trees, a model that may be associated with monopodial stem development and limited life span.
Enquête sur la popularité du tabloïd zimbabwéen uMthunywa
Authors: Mabweazara Hayes Mawindi , Strelitz Larry Nathan
Published: May 2012

Résumé Alors que la presse populaire de type tabloïd a souvent été accusée de compromettre les fonctions normatives du journalisme et de dépolitiser ses lecteurs en Afrique, il existe peu de tentatives de théorisation des raisons du développement rapide de sa popularité. S’appuyant sur des méthodes de recherche qualitative, notamment une analyse de contenu et des entretiens en profondeur auprès des lecteurs de Bulawayo du tabloïd zimbabwéen uMthunywa en langue vernaculaire (isiNdébélé), cet article soutient que ce type de support peut jouer un rôle important d’un point de vue journalistique et culturel. Notamment, il peut fournir aux lecteurs marginalisés politiquement et économiquement une sphère publique ou une sphère alternative dans laquelle s’articulent les questions ayant trait à leurs réalités sociales, politiques et économiques.
Violences et discours radiophoniques de haine au Kenya
Authors: Somerville Keith
Published: May 2012

Résumé Lors des violences post-électorales de 2008 au Kenya, des experts spécialisés dans le suivi des médias, ainsi que des organisations de défense des droits de l’homme, des politiciens et des journalistes ont accusé certains médias kenyans d’incitation à la haine ethnique et à la violence. Cet article examine le contexte de ces violences, le caractère provocateur et violent du discours politique au Kenya, ainsi que le rôle joué dans la diffusion de ce discours par les stations de radio émettant en langue vernaculaire. Il identifie les critères permettant de définir un « média de la haine », afin de vérifier s’il s’applique aux radios kényanes.
L'enfant extradé
Authors: Irzenski Liliane
Published: May 2012

Résumé La loi du 11 février 2005, en décrétant l’intégration de tous les enfants dans les écoles de la République, crée paradoxalement les mdph , et opère ainsi, pour ceux qui présentent des difficultés psychiques passagères ou même plus graves, une stigmatisation catastrophique sur le plan humain.
Devenir de la psychanalyse ?
Authors: Rousseau-Dujardin Jacqueline
Published: May 2012

Résumé La psychanalyse, jusqu’à ces derniers temps, n’avait pas de statut légal en France. C’est fait maintenant : elle figure parmi les psychothérapies, soumise comme elles aux mêmes réglementations étatiques. La situation psychanalytique, telle qu’elle s’institue et se développe dans une cure, sera-t-elle compatible avec cette nouvelle donne, compte tenu de sa spécificité, petit à petit inscrite dans son histoire ? Quelles perspectives ?
Partition du sexe et de l'amour
Authors: Chaboudez Gisèle
Published: May 2012

L’homme manifeste souvent dans sa vie amoureuse une partition du sexe et de l’amour que la psychanalyse considère liée à l’Œdipe, donc à l’interdit de l’inceste. Cela est exact, mais l’Œdipe n’est pas seul à produire une telle partition. La béance même de la jouissance sexuelle humaine y participe, ayant à l’inverse recours à l’interdit de l’inceste pour y suppléer.
Les symptômes sexuels, écriture déplacée du rapport sexuel
Authors: Pommier Gérard
Published: May 2012

Cet article montre qu’il existe une différence entre les symptômes sexuels et les symptômes névrotiques d’après-coup. Ces symptômes s’écrivent à l’occasion du rapport sexuel dont ils sont une écriture déplacée. Ils témoignent pour l’entité clinique de la névrose actuelle, distincte de la névrose proprement dite. On montre que cette écriture est dans la dépendance d’une certaine mise en tension du masculin. Le choix du genre sexuel est tout à fait distinct du sexe anatomique. Ce fait oblige à considérer que le choix ne peut opérer qu’à partir d’une bisexualité psychique, effective pour tous les sujets.
La parole désarticulée. Le cas d'une enfant psychotique
Authors: Bessaih Zoubida
Published: May 2012

La parole révèle la structure, dans la psychose plus que dans la névrose, car si le névrosé dit : « Je suis malade », le psychotique fera en sorte de convaincre qu’il ne l’est pas, mais le langage, « qu’il n’habite pas » selon Lacan, le trahit. Le cas de Rosa, suivie durant son enfance et une partie de son adolescence, illustre cet étrangéité du psychotique par rapport au langage, ce décalage dans la parole provoque la perplexité et l’incompréhension chez son interlocuteur. Malgré une scolarité plutôt bonne, mais en dents de scie, ses camarades, ses parents et ses enseignants savent que quelque chose ne tourne pas rond chez Rosa.
Contrainte relationnelle et résistance au travail
Authors: Barbier Pascal
Published: May 2012

Résumé À partir d'une observation participante réalisée dans un grand magasin parisien et d'entretiens avec des vendeurs du grand commerce, l'article examine les contraintes exercées par les clients sur les vendeurs chargés de satisfaire leurs désirs. Il vise à comprendre l'origine et les effets des petites brutalités produites quotidiennement par les clients à l'encontre des vendeurs. Il met en évidence le rôle joué par plusieurs facteurs dans l'appréciation de situations qui coûtent à certains vendeurs et moins à d'autres, comme la trajectoire scolaire et professionnelle des vendeurs. Enfin, il montre les ressources relationnelles mobilisées par les vendeurs pour contenir, voire inverser le rapport de force que deviennent parfois leurs relations avec les clients.
A Bayesian Spawning Habitat Suitability Model for American Shad in Southeastern United States Rivers
Authors: Hightower Joseph E. , Harris Julianne E. , Raabe Joshua K. , Brownell Prescott , Drew C. Ashton
Published: May 2012

Habitat suitability index models for American shad Alosa sapidissima were developed by Stier and Crance in 1985. These models, which were based on a combination of published information and expert opinion, are often used to make decisions about hydropower dam operations and fish passage. The purpose of this study was to develop updated habitat suitability index models for spawning American shad in the southeastern United States, building on the many field and laboratory studies completed since 1985. We surveyed biologists who had knowledge about American shad spawning grounds, assembled a panel of experts to discuss important habitat variables, and used raw data from published and unpublished studies to develop new habitat suitability curves. The updated curves are based on resource selection functions, which can model habitat selectivity based on use and availability of particular habitats. Using field data collected in eight rivers from Virginia to Florida (Mattaponi, Pamunkey, Roanoke, Tar, Neuse, Cape Fear, Pee Dee, St. Johns), we obtained new curves for temperature, current velocity, and depth that were generally similar to the original models. Our new suitability function for substrate was also similar to the original pattern, except that sand (optimal in the original model) has a very low estimated suitability. The Bayesian approach that we used to develop habitat suitability curves provides an objective framework for updating the model as new studies are completed and for testing the model's applicability in other parts of the species' range.
INVESTIGATION OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE SURFACE MICROCOILS USING FINITE ELEMENT SIMULATIONS
Authors: Dehkhoda Fahimeh , Frounchi Javad , Mohammadzadeh Mohammad
Published: May 2012

Surface microcoils are utilized in micro magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy for the purpose of resolution enhancement and small sample analysis. In this work, modeling and investigation of surface microcoils are conducted using finite element simulations in COMSOL Multiphysics and post-processing. The method is based on MR signal generating by employing the principle of reciprocity to obtain signal sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in surface microcoils. Filling factor is investigated as an effective coil parameter to show its great effect on sensitivity and SNR where the results confirm that maximum SNR can be achieved with optimum parameters when the filling factor is high enough. Regarding the great interest on MR coil optimization and microcoil array design, the findings can facilitate the optimization and design process by focusing on the most effective parameters to achieve the desired specifications in an accurate and time-saving manner.
SIMULATION AND MEASUREMENT OF SKULL VIBRATION WITH A BONE CONDUCTION HEARING AID
Authors: Lin Yi-Rou , Tsai Cheng-Lun , Cheng Shu-Fen , Wu Chao-Min , Lin Yue-Der , Chang Hen-Hong , Lin Kang-Ping
Published: May 2012

Hearing aid implant is not suitable for little children with congenital aural atresia because their skulls are still growing. Since the critical period of speech and language development is during the first three years of life, the child has to be exposed to verbal stimulation as early as possible. The purpose of this study is to develop an external bone-conduction hearing aid for a newborn child. A headband or spectacle can be used to keep the hearing aid in position. To improve the design of the hearing aid vibrator, finite element analysis was applied to analyze the structure factors that affect the performance of the vibrator. The vibrator and head were simulated as a whole system to acquire more accurate estimation of the spectral response of the bone-conduction hearing aid. The measurement on artificial mastoid shows the vibrator has a wide working range from 200 to 4000 Hz, which covers the most crucial acoustic frequency range for speech recognition. The test of bone conduction hearing aid on adult subjects shows comparative performances with a commercial device. This miniature and low-price bone conduction hearing aid will help the specific group of hearing impaired kids to begin the required early intervention therapy.
A NEW TRUNK SWAY ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL FOR STROKE PATIENTS USING A BIOFEEDBACK INERTIAL-BASED SENSING MODALITY
Authors: Soon Kok-Soon , Lee Ming-Yih , Chang Chih-Chien , Wang Chun-Hou , Lin Chih-Feng
Published: May 2012

Brain damage pathology can generate an irrelevant motor program leading to abnormal posture. Given this observation, we tested the hypothesis that postural control deficits are present in individuals with postural disorders. A new trunk sway assessment protocol evaluation system using an inertial-based sensing technique combined with visual-biofeedback strategies was developed. The proposed system was used to assess the angular deviation of the center of mass and enhanced balance control in patients with stroke. Twelve participants with hemiplegia were randomly divided into a visual-biofeedback group (experimental) and a without visual-biofeedback group (control), and were asked to stand as still as possible for 30 s. Postural sway data were submitted to conventional quantitative analyses of sway magnitude using a center of mass measurement. Additionally, group means were compared using parametric tests. Parameters in both the anterior-posterior and medio-lateral directions within the stroke patients were compared using paired t-tests. The experimental group showed increased postural control, indicative of reduced postural sway. Decreased complexity in the medio-lateral direction was also observed in the experimental group, suggesting both a reduction in the dynamic range available for postural control, and that their postural corrections were dominated primarily by longer-term scales. Significant interactions between the diagnostic group and visual condition were also observed for both of these measures, suggesting that the control group participants were impaired in their ability to make corrections to their sway pattern when no visual biofeedback was available. Greater sway magnitude and reduced complexity suggest that individuals with hemiplegia have deficits in sensorimotor integration and a reduced range of timescales available within which to make postural corrections.
GUIDING TEMPLATES FOR PEDICLE SCREWS INSERTION: A PRELIMINARY STUDY
Authors: Fang Jing-Jing , Kuo Tai-Hong , Lin Ruey-Mo , Ho Cheng-Yu
Published: May 2012

Fixation of pedicle screws necessitates high surgical skill and a great deal of experience in order to avoid injuries to nerves and vessels. In this study, we develop a computer-aided procedure to produce personalized drill guides that are designed to enhance the safety of pedicle screw insertion in the spinal region. Based on a patient's computed tomography (CT) data, it is possible to design personalized drill guides in a self-developed computer-aided design environment. These guides are designed to fit on the surface of vertebrae in a unique position in order to indicate both the preplanned drill path and the drilling length into the pedicle. A rapid prototyping device is used as a three-dimensional printer to produce the shape of reference areas on bone surfaces. Postoperative CT scans are obtained, and the accuracy of the pedicle screws is measured. By using customized templates in a case study, the guiding templates are shown to be highly accurate and to provide great assistance for planning and executing surgeries. The accuracy of screw placement is confirmed with postoperative CT scanning. The average angle of the drilling paths between planning and postsurgery is approximately 1.05°. The average deviation of entry points of drilling paths between planning and postsurgery is approximately 2.99 mm. The performance proves a high degree of accuracy in comparison with conventional techniques achieved through fluoroscopy. However, a significant number of clinical cases is needed to validate the feasibility of this method. The device is proven to be reliable and compatible; in the future, surgeons can use the guiding templates to complete more complicated cases such as those involving idiopathic scoliosis and cervical complications.
Die ‘Duisternis’ as Mag in die Nuwe Testament
Authors: Steyn Gert J.
Published: May 2012

The purpose of this contribution is to present a general survey of darkness as power in the New Testament. It is generally accepted that darkness functions on a symbolic-metaphorical level on the one hand and on a literal level on the other hand. The former receives attention in this study where darkness is almost exclusively connected with the domain of power of the evil. The issue of darkness is investigated from four dimensions (1) as an opposing power to light in a dualistic worldview, (2) as a ruling power with a grip on death and the grave, (3) as a power of the evil and the struggle for liberation and (4) as a symbol and instrument of judgement of God in an apocalyptic worldview, with darkness eventually becoming the condemned. It is concluded that there seems to be at least two New Testament perceptions regarding the position of darkness as power: The domain of evil’s darkness is located in the ‘underworld’, but gradually this view changed to also include a space in the layers of heaven above the earth. Earthlings found themselves in the midst of the struggle between Belial and Christ – the latter who finally conquers the power of darkness and now rules above the dark forces of evil.
Circular depolarization ratios of single water droplets and finite ice circular cylinders: a modeling study
Authors: Nicolet M. , Schnaiter M. , Stetzer O.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Computations of the phase matrix elements for single water droplets and ice crystals in fixed orientations are presented to determine if circular depolarization δC is more accurate than linear depolarization for phase discrimination. T-matrix simulations were performed to calculate right-handed and left-handed circular depolarization ratios δ+C, respectively δ−C and to compare them with linear ones. Ice crystals are assumed to have a circular cylindrical shape where their surface-equivalent diameters range up to 5 μm. The circular depolarization ratios of ice particles were generally higher than linear depolarization and depended mostly on the particle orientation as well as their sizes. The fraction of non-detectable ice crystals (δ<0.05) was smaller considering a circular polarized light source, reaching 4.5%. However, water droplets also depolarized light circularly for scattering angles smaller than 179° and size parameters smaller than 6 at side- and backscattering regions. Differentiation between ice crystals and water droplets might be difficult for experiments performed at backscattering angles which deviate from 180° unlike LIDAR applications. Instruments exploiting the difference in the P44/P11 ratio at a scattering angle around 115° are significantly constrained in distinguishing between water and ice because small droplets with size parameters between 5 and 10 do cause very high circular depolarizations at this angle. If the absence of the liquid phase is confirmed, the use of circular depolarization in single particle detection is more sensitive and less affected by particle orientation.
The formation of SOA and chemical tracer compounds from the photooxidation of naphthalene and its methyl analogs in the presence and absence of nitrogen oxides
Authors: Kleindienst T. E. , Jaoui M. , Lewandowski M. , Offenberg J. H. , Docherty K. S.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Laboratory smog chamber experiments have been carried out to investigate secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation from the photooxidation of naphthalene and its methyl analogs, 1- and 2-methylnaphthalene (1-MN and 2-MN, respectively). Laboratory smog chamber irradiations were conducted in a flow mode to ensure adequate collection of the aerosol at reasonably low reactant concentrations and in the presence and absence of nitrogen oxides. Phthalic acid and methyl analogs were identified following BSTFA derivatization of the aerosol extract. These compounds were examined to determine whether they could serve as reasonable molecular tracers to estimate the contributions of these precursors to ambient PM2.5. Measurements were also made to determine aerosol parameters from secondary organic aerosol from naphthalene, 1-MN, and 2-MN. A mass fraction approach was used to establish factors which could be applied to phthalic acid concentrations in ambient aerosols, assuming a negligible contribution from primary sources. In addition, the hydrolysis of phthalic anhydride was tested and found to represent a moderate filter artifact in side-by-side filter measurements with and without in-line denuders. This study also provided the opportunity to examine numeric differences using authentic standards for phthalic acid compared to surrogate standards. While the mass fraction based on a surrogate compounds was somewhat lower, the differences are largely unimportant. For naphthalene, mass fractions of 0.023 and 0.019 were determined in the presence and absence of nitrogen oxides, respectively, based on the phthalic acid standards. The mass fractions determined from the laboratory data were then applied to ambient samples where phthalic acid was found and expressed "as naphthalene" since phthalic acid was found to be produced in the particle phase from other PAHs tested. The mass fraction values were applied to samples taken during the 2005 SOAR Study in Riverside, CA and 2010 CalNex Study in Pasadena. In both studies an undetermined isomer of methylphthalic acid was detected in addition to phthalic acid. Laboratory experiment retention times and mass spectra suggest that the major precursor for this compound is 2-MN. For the CalNex Study, SOC values for the gas-phase PAHs (as naphthalene) were found to range from below the detection limit to 20 ng C m−3 which together with the laboratory mass fraction data suggests an upper limit of 1 μg m−3 for SOA due to PAHs. Temporal data over the course of the one-month CalNex study suggest that primary sources of phthalic acid were probably negligible during this study period. However, the values must still be considered upper limits given a potential gas-phase hydrolysis reaction or uptake of phthalic anhydride (subsequently hydrolyzed) onto the collection medium.
Role of land surface processes and diffuse/direct radiation partitioning in simulating the European climate
Authors: Davin E. L. , Seneviratne S. I.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. The influence of land processes and in particular of diffuse/direct radiation partitioning on surface fluxes and associated regional-scale climate feedbacks is investigated using ERA-40 driven simulations over Europe performed with the COSMO-CLM2 Regional Climate Model (RCM). Two alternative Land Surface Models (LSMs), a 2nd generation LSM (TERRA_ML) and a more advanced 3rd generation LSM (Community Land Model version 3.5), and two versions of the atmospheric component are tested, as well as a revised coupling procedure allowing for variations in diffuse/direct light partitioning at the surface, and their accounting by the land surface component. Overall, the RCM performance for various variables (e.g., surface fluxes, temperature and precipitation) is improved when using the more advanced 3rd generation LSM. These improvements are of the same order of magnitude as those arising from a new version of the atmospheric component, demonstrating the benefit of using a realistic representation of land surface processes for regional climate simulations. Taking into account the variability in diffuse/direct light partitioning at the surface further improves the model performance in terms of summer temperature variability at the monthly and daily time scales. Comparisons with observations show that the RCM realistically captures temporal variations in diffuse/direct light partitioning as well as the evapotranspiration sensitivity to these variations. Our results suggest that a modest but consistent fraction (up to 3 %) of the overall variability in summer temperature can be explained by variations in the diffuse to direct ratio.
Bunker Cave stalagmites: an archive for central European Holocene climate variability
Authors: Fohlmeister J. , Schröder-Ritzrau A. , Scholz D. , Spötl C. , Riechelmann D. F. C. , Mudelsee M. , Wackerbarth A. , Gerdes A. , Riechelmann S. , Immenhauser A. , Richter D. K. , Mangini A.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Holocene climate was characterised by variability on multi-centennial to multi-decadal time scales. In central Europe, these fluctuations were most pronounced during winter. Here we present a new record of past winter climate variability for the last 10.8 ka based on four speleothems from Bunker Cave, Western Germany. Due to its central European location, the cave site is particularly well suited to record changes in precipitation and temperature in response to changes in the North Atlantic realm. We present high resolution records of δ18O, δ13C values and Mg/Ca ratios. We attribute changes in the Mg/Ca ratio to variations in the meteoric precipitation. The stable C isotope composition of the speleothems most likely reflects changes in vegetation and precipitation and variations in the δ18O signal are interpreted as variations in meteoric precipitation and temperature. We found cold and dry periods between 9 and 7 ka, 6.5 and 5.5 ka, 4 and 3 ka as well as between 0.7 to 0.2 ka. The proxy signals in our stalagmites compare well with other isotope records and, thus, seem representative for central European Holocene climate variability. The prominent 8.2 ka event and the Little Ice Age cold events are both recorded in the Bunker cave record. However, these events show a contrasting relationship between climate and δ18O, which is explained by different causes underlying the two climate anomalies. Whereas the Little Ice Age is attributed to a pronounced negative phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation, the 8.2 ka event was triggered by cooler conditions in the North Atlantic due to a slowdown of the Thermohaline Circulation.