bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Philosophien im widerstreit: Nachträgliche ursprünge, neuanfänge, nachstiftungen, revisionen, subversionen
Authors: Liebsch Burkhard
Published: November 2010

Zusammenfassung: Der folgende Aufsatz zeigt die Notwendigkeit einer
sozialphilosophischen Revision der neuzeitlichen Philosophie ankn?pfend an
Merleau-Pontys Auseinandersetzung mit Descartes auf, die zum Vorrang der
Frage f?hrt, wer wir im Verh?ltnis zu Anderen (nicht was wir als
rationaleWesen) sind. Die Aktualit?t einer solchen Revision wird u. a. mit
Bezug auf das philosophische Werk von Ricoeur und Levinas deutlich gemacht.
Identity of the work of art
Authors: Ristic Stefan
Published: November 2010

The paper intends to determine the identity of the work of art in visual
arts, music and literature. The discussion is of ontological nature.
Particular attention is given to the problem of imitation of works of art in
different arts, making a distinction between two types of imitation: fakes
and forgeries. The first type is found only within the arts where the work of
art is a singular physical object, i.e. with the so called autographic arts,
whereas the second type can also be found in other, allographic arts,
although less commonly. The problem of the imitation of works of art is
closely related with the issue concerning the possibility of reducing the
work of art to a formal symbolic system which would serve as a definition of
the work of art. The discussion shows that a consistent analysis of the
ontological status of the work of art in different art forms provides results
that may seem at the first glance unintuitive and surprising.
Recent trends in bioethanol production
Authors: Semencenko Valentina , Mojovic Ljiljana , Petrovic Slobodan , Ocic Ozren
Published: November 2010

The rapid depletion of the world petroleum supply and the increasing problem
of greenhouse gas effects have strenghtened the worldwide interest in
alternative, nonpetroleum sources of energy. Bioethanol accounts for the
majority of biofuel use worldwide, either as a fuel or a gasoline enhancer.
Utilization of bioethanol can significantly reduce petroleum use and exhaust
greenhouse gas emission. The production of this fuel is increasing over the
years, and has reached the level of 73.9 billion liters during the year 2009.
Even though ethanol production for decades mainly depended on energy crops
containing starch and sugar (corn, sugar cane etc.), new technologies for
converting lignocellulosic biomass into ethanol are under development today.
The use of lignocellulosic biomass, such as agricultural residues, forest and
municipial waste, for the production of biofuels will be unavoidable if
liquid fossil fuels are to be replaced by renewable and sustainable
alternatives. For biological conversion of lignocellulosic biomass,
pretreatment plays a central role affecting all unit operations in the
process and is also an important cost deterrent to the comercial viability of
the process. The key obstacles are: pretreatment selection and optimization;
decreasing the cost of the enzymatic hydrolysis; maximizing the conversion of
sugars (including pentoses) to ethanol; process scale-up and integration to
minimize energy and water demand; characterization and evaluation of the
lignin co-product; and lastly, the use of the representative and reliable
data for cost estimation, and the determination of environmental and
socio-economic impacts. Currently, not all pretreatments are capable of
producing biomass that can be converted to sugars in high enough yield and
concentration, while being economically viable. For the three main types of
feedstocks, the developement of effective continuous fermentation
technologies with near to 100% yields and elevated volumetric productivities
is one of the main research subjects in the ethanol industry. The application
of new, engineered enzyme systems for cellulose hydrolysis, the construction
of inhibitor tolerant pentose fermenting strains, combined with optimized
process integration promise significant improvements.
Causes of blindness in the Republic of Srpska
Authors: Kozomara Risto , Kozomara Bojan
Published: November 2010

Introduction. To determine the prevalence and identify potentially curable
causes of blindness. Material and methods. We analyzed causes of blindness in
808 blind persons, aged from 0 to 75 years. We classified our findings in 13
categories. Results. The least number of blind persons was discovered in
children aged from 0 to 15 years (2.4%), as well as in teenagers (3.4%). The
number of blind persons in working population, aged from 30 to 60 was (33.1%)
and in older population it was (60.7%). Glaucoma was the highest cause of
blindness (15.9%). Complications of myopia (14.6%) took the second place.
Conclusion. We think that our community needs more screening projects for
glaucoma, refraction anomalies in children and diabetic retinopathy, through
which the causes of blindness would be discovered and treated on time and
people would be much more educated about risks and consequences of untreated
eye diseases and conditions.
Pharmacokinetic modelling of valproate in epileptic patients
Authors: Jakovljevic Mihajlo , Jankovic Slobodan , Todorovic Natalija , Milovanovic Jasmina , Jankovic Snezana
Published: November 2010

Introduction. The aim of our study was to develop and use a population
pharmacokinetic model for assessment of individual valproate clearance in
children and young adults suffering from epilepsy. Material and methods. The
analysis was performed using 52 steady-state concentrations of valproate
collected from 26 epileptic patients during the routine clinical practice in
our hospital. The mean values of age and total body weight were 19.92 years
and 57.12 kg, respectively. NONMEM software with ADVAN 1 subroutine was used
for model building and assessing the influence of different covariates. A
validation set of 20 epileptic patients (one blood sample per a patient) was
used to estimate predicted performances of the pharmacokinetic model.
Results. The typical mean value of the clearance of valproate estimated by
the base model in our population was 0.377 l/h. Out of five considered
covariates (total body weight, age, total daily dose, gender and polytherapy)
only the age of the patients was a significant determinant of the clearance
of valproate. The final regression model for the clearance of valproate was
as following: CL (l/h) = 0.223 + 0.00819
New biohumoral markers of differential diagnosis in patients with suspected heart failure
Authors: Matunovic Radomir , Mijailovic Zdravko , Rabrenovic Milorad , Rabrenovic Violeta
Published: November 2010

Introduction. In the regular clinic practice, the assessment of the cause of
dispnea is a dilemma which has a significant implication in both the
estimation of prognosis and treatment of the patient. In emergency cases,
when most necessary, it is often very difficult to determine whether dispnea
was caused by a heart or lung disease. Role of natriuretic peptide in
patients with dispnea. An acute patient with dispnea might suffer serious
consequences of inadequately established diagnosis so congestive heart
failure (CHF) has to be diagnosed quickly and precisely in the ER.
Unfortunately, symptoms and signs of CHF are unspecific, it is sometimes
impossible to obtain an adequate anamnesis and diagnosic procedures currently
applied are either insufficiently precise or provide scarce information or
can not always be performed under appropriate conditions. On the basis of
previous findings, it has been proved that brain natriuretic peptide (BNP)
can considerably contribute to the establishment of correct diagnosis as well
as to the possibility of introducing an adequate therapy for those patients.
However, the real value of those peptides should be estimated in relation to
other clinical manifestations and indicators and the specifics of examined
patients including the age, gender and the presence or absence of pulmonary
or renal diseases. Natriuretic peptide in accessement gradient of heart
failure. Determination of natriuretic peptide has represented most probably
the greatest progress in diagnosing the heart failure since the introduction
of echocardiography into practice. Its high sensitivity and negative
predicted value makes it a valid test for excluding congestive heart failure
with a very high degree of certainty.
Body mass index in asthmatic children before and after one year inhaled glucocorticosteroids therapy BMI
Authors: Kostic Gordana , Ilic Nevenka , Petrovic Marina , Markovic Slavica , Vuletic Biljana , Igrutinovic Zoran
Published: November 2010

Introduction. Asthma is the most frequent children?s disease, with a tendency
of further growth. Bearing in mind controversial data on obesity of asthmatic
children and a possible effect of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) on children?s
growth, the aim of our study was to determine the body mass index (BMI) in
asthmatic children at the beginning of the therapy and to study the effect of
the continuous application of ICS on growth and BMI during the period of 1
year. Material and methods. The study included 100 children aged 7 to 18
diagnosed to have partly controlled and uncontrolled allergic asthma, who
were continuously given ICS as a prevention against asthma attacks at
Pediatric Clinic of the Clinical Center in Kragujevac for the period of 1
year. Children with BMI < p10 by their age and gender were considered to be
underweight, children with p10-84 as of normal weight, children with p85-97
as overweight and children with BMI >p97 as obese. Results. The highest
percentage of children with asthma was within normal parameters (70%), 10%
of the children were underweight (boys: n=8/60, 13.3% vs. girls: n=2/40, 5%),
and 18% were over?weight/obese. Monovariable analysis of variant with
repeated measurements have shown a statistically significant difference in
the height of children in all age groups after a year of continuous therapy
of ICS (p=0.000), except in girls aged 15-18, who did not show any
significant difference in body height after the therapy (p>0.05). Conclusion.
Asthmatic children with partly controlled and uncontrolled asthma have mostly
normal BMI and ICS can be safely administered in asthmatic children.
Morbidity in newborns exposed to organophosphorus pesticides
Authors: Djordjevic Momcilo , Sazdanovic Predrag , Djordjevic Gordana , Jovanovic Bozidar
Published: November 2010

Introduction. Insecticides are toxines by which we destroy harmful insects.
The most frequent insecticides which are used today are organophosphorus
pesticides. This group of compounds make substances whose activity mechanism
is based on the inhibition of acetylcho?linesterase in nerve synapsis, thus
producing holynergic syndrome, resulting from the accumulation of
acetylcholine which developed due to the absence of decomposition under the
influence of cholinesterase. In the clinical picture of acute toxication by
cholinesterase inhibitors there is a clear difference between muscarinic and
nicotine effects. The basic aim of the study was to establish the effects of
organophosphorus pesticides present in blood and breast milk of mothers on
newborns morbidity. Material and methods. The study group consisted of 18
newborns whose mothers had isolated organophosphorus pesticides in their
blood and breast?milk on the third day after delivery, and the control group
consisted of 84 newborns whose mothers did not have isolated organophosphorus
pesticides in their blood and breastmilk. Results. Morbidity is three times
greater, often in combination with some disorders of the central nervous
system, and the relative risk for its appearance is eight time greater in
newborns exposed to organophosphorus pesticides. Disscusion. Disorders that
appear in newborns exposed to pesticides are mutagenic, cancerogenic and
neurotoxic and some agenses could disturb the immune system which is
reflected in morbidity increase, primarly of the central nervous system.
Conclusion. The presence of organophosphorus pesticides in blood and breast
milk has negative effects on newborns. In addition to acetylcho?linesterase
inhibition, organophosphorus pesticides react by means of other mechanisms as
well.
Progressive course of hypophosphatemic osteomalacia during 25-year follow up
Authors: Bojovic Jaroslav , Pavlica Ljiljana
Published: November 2010

Introduction. Hypophosphatemic osteomalacia is defined as mineralization of
the newly formed bone matrix (osteoids) in adults as a consequence of the
phosphate deficiency. Case report. A female from Belgrade, aged 62 years fell
ill in 1982. when she was 36. She first felt pains in bones associated with
chronic fatigue. In 1986. during her hospitalization the presence of
neoplastic hematologic, endocrinologic, urogenital and gastroenterologic
system deseases was excluded. Hypophosphatemic osteomalacia was diagnosed on
the basis of the history, clinical presentation, physical examination,
radiologic finding and laboratory analyses (lower serum phosphoruslevel). The
initial therapy included a mixture of phosphates, vitamin D and calcium. The
doses were several times corrected over the following four years. In 1990 she
had a mild clinical deterioration requiring recorrection of the mentioned
therapy. In 1993 bilateral femoral neck fractures occurred and subsequent
osetosynthe as wasperfotmed. The disease had a progressive character in spite
of the administered drug therapy so that multiple fractures occurred in 2000.
During the last hospitalization in 2008. neither new pseudo fractures nor
fractures were found although biochemical profile of the hypophosphatemic
osteomalacia was still present. Conclusion. The aim of this study was to
emphasize the complexity in both diagnostic and therapeutic approach in the
case of hypophosphatemic osteomalacia. In the presented case the patient
showed a complicated and progressive course. In our opinion such course was a
consequence of impossible etiologic treatment and discontinued therapy.
GM1 gangliosidosis: Case report
Authors: Obradovic Slobodan , Laban Olivera , Igrutinovic Zoran , Vuletic Biljana , Vujic Ana , Djindjic Jasmina
Published: November 2010

Introduction. Gangliosidoses occur due to inhereted deficiency of human ? -
galaktosidase,resulting in the accumulation of glicophyngolipides within the
lisosomes. Clinical manifestations of lysosomal storage disorders are
remarkably heterogeneous, they can appear at any age and each of them can vary
from mild to severe conditions. Case report. We present a patient with an
early, infintile type of GM1 gangliosidosis. The facial features were coarse:
hypertelorismus, wide nose, depressed nasal bridge with lingual protrusion.
From the very first months of life she had severe generalized hypotonic,
delayed development and hapatosplenomegaly. Before she died, when she was 13
months old, she had not had any spontaneus movements, she was deaf and blind,
dispnoic, with apnoiccrises, with amimic face, but without seizures and
decerebrate rigidity, which often accompanies the terminal stage of this
illness. Conclusion. The absence of ?-galaktosidase enzyme activaty at the
skin fibroblasts confirmed the definitive diagnosis. There has been no
successful treatment so far, but increasingly better results of the gene
therapy for other lysosomal storage disorders can make us optimistic.
Three-year Clinical Evaluation of Cuspal Coverage with Combined Composite–Amalgam in Endodontically-treated Maxillary Premolars
Authors: Shafiei F. , Memarpour M. , Doozandeh M.
Published: November 2010

Clinical Relevance

The results of a three-year follow-up of a small sample of patients suggest that combined composite-amalgam restoration for cuspal coverage is useful as a conservative, one-appointment complementary procedure for endodontically-treated maxillary premolars.
Development, application, and validation of a survey for infectious disease control practices at equine boarding facilities
Authors: Kirby Alanna T. , Traub-Dargatz Josie L. , Hill Ashley E. , Kogan Lori R. , Morley Paul S. , Heird James C.
Published: November 2010

Objective—To develop a questionnaire for self-assessment of biosecurity practices at equine boarding facilities and to evaluate infectious disease control practices in these facilities in Colorado.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—64 equine boarding facilities in Colorado.

Procedures—Survey questions were rated according to importance for prevention and containment of equine infectious diseases. Point values (range, 0 to 20) were assigned for possible responses, with greater values given for optimal infection control methods. Questionnaires were mailed to equine boarding facilities in Colorado advertised on the World Wide Web. Survey responses were compared with assessments made by a member of the research team during visits to 30 randomly selected facilities. Agreement among results was analyzed via a kappa test and rated as poor, fair, moderate, substantial, or nearly perfect.

Results—Survey responses were received for 64 of 163 (39%) equine boarding facilities. Scores ranged from 106 to 402 points (maximum possible score, 418). Most facilities received better scores for movement and housing of equids than for other sections of the survey. Respondents at 24 of 48 (50%) facilities that routinely received new equids reported isolation of new arrivals. Agreement between self-assessment by survey respondents and evaluation by a member of the research team was determined to be fair to substantial.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Most equine boarding facilities have opportunities to improve measures for prevention or containment of contagious diseases (eg, isolation of newly arrived equids and use of written health management protocols). Most self-assessments of infection control practices were accurate.
Wooden, metallic, hair, bone, and plant foreign bodies in horses: 37 cases (1990-2005)
Authors: Farr Amanda C. , Hawkins Jan F. , Baird Debra K. , Moore George E.
Published: November 2010

Objective—To characterize features of diagnosis, treatment, and outcome in horses with foreign bodies, exclusive of enteric, inhaled, and foot-penetrating foreign bodies.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—37 horses with foreign bodies.

Procedures—The incidence of equine foreign bodies from 1990 through 2005 was determined by review of data from veterinary schools participating in the Veterinary Medical Database (VMDB). Medical records of horses with foreign bodies at Purdue University were reviewed, and the following information was retrieved: clinical history; signalment; results of physical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic examinations; results of microbial culture of the draining tract or foreign body material; surgical findings; antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory treatments; and complications of the surgical procedure. Long-term follow-up information was obtained from owners or referring veterinarians.

Results—The incidence of foreign bodies in horses with records in the VMDB was 1730/10,000 horse admissions. A preoperative diagnosis of foreign bodies was confirmed via ultrasonography in most horses examined (15/17 horses) and with plain film radiography in a quarter of horses examined (7/24 horses). Wood foreign bodies were the most common (59%; 22/37), followed by metal (24%; 9/37), hair (8%; 3/37), nonsequestrum bone (5%; 2/37), and plant material (3%; 1/37). Postoperative complications associated with the foreign body were more likely to develop with wood foreign bodies (3/22) than with other types of foreign bodies (1/15).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Wood was the most common penetrating foreign body in the horses in our study and was the type associated with the highest incidence of complications. Ultrasonography was more effective in locating foreign bodies than was radiography (plain and contrast) and should be performed in all horses with suspected foreign bodies.
Scapulohumeral joint luxation in alpacas: 10 cases (2003–2009)
Authors: Rousseau Marjolaine , Anderson David E. , Miesner Matt D. , Schulz Kara L. , Whitehead Claire E.
Published: November 2010

Objective—To describe the clinical findings, treatments, and outcome in alpacas treated for scapulohumeral joint luxation (SHJL).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—10 alpacas.

Procedures—Medical records of alpacas with SHJL that were treated at 2 referral hospitals were reviewed. History, signalment, physical examination results, radiographic findings, treatments, complications, and outcome were evaluated.

Results—Records for 8 male and 2 female alpacas with 16 instances of SHJL were reviewed. Three male alpacas each had 2 recurrences of SHJL in the treated limb. The proportion of male alpacas treated for SHJL was significantly greater than the proportion of female alpacas treated for SHJL. Closed reduction was used in 2 female and 3 male alpacas; SHJL reccurred in the 3 males. Stabilization by use of a lateral extracapsular tension band suture technique was performed successfully in 4 male alpacas; in another male alpaca, reluxation caused by self-inflicted trauma occurred postoperatively. In 2 male alpacas, arthrodesis was performed but residual lameness remained 1 year after surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—SHJL should be considered as a differential diagnosis in alpacas with thoracic limb lameness. Luxation may occur more frequently in males. A closed reduction technique may be used successfully to treat acute luxations. Extracapsular stabilization by use of the lateral extracapsular tension band suture technique was successful for treatment of recurrent SHJL and SHJL that could not be reduced via closed reduction.
Higher order invariants in the case of compact quotients
Authors: Deitmar Anton
Published: November 2010

We present the theory of higher order invariants and higher order automorphic forms in the simplest case, that of a compact quotient. In this case, many things simplify and we are thus able to prove a more precise structure theorem than in the general case.
Gene variants related to the power performance of the Lithuanian athletes
Authors: Ginevičienė Valentina , Pranckevičienė Erinija , Milašius Kazys , Kučinskas Vaidutis
Published: November 2010

ACE (I/D), ACTN3 (R/X), PPARGC1A (Gly482Ser) and PPARA (G/C) polymorphisms have been linked to the success in power-oriented sports through the intermediate phenotypes. The study involved 193 Lithuanian elite athletes and 250 controls. The measured phenotypic variables included short-term explosive muscle power (STEMP) and anaerobic alactic maximum power (AAMP). ACE DD genotype was more common among endurance athletes compared to the power athletes. The ACTN3 genotype frequencies of the elite athletes differed from those of non-elite athletes; however, there were no differences among the athletes and the control group across the PPARGC1A Gly482Ser genotypes. The frequency of PPARA CC genotype increased with the growing skill level of athletes (non-elite 2%, sub-elite 7.7%, elite 11.6%). The STEMP and AAMP were higher in the males than females and they were also higher in the power-oriented group compared to the endurance sports group. Success in power sports can be attributed to the ACE II, PPARGC1A SerSer, PPARA CC genotype in association with phenotypic characteristics such as AAMP and STEMP. ACTN3 XX genotype may not be critical but rather additive to endurance performance. The results show that high muscle power depends on both environmental and genetic factors.
Comparison of daily rhythms of oxygen metabolites and serum barrier to oxidation in domestic animals
Authors: Giannetto Claudia , Fazio Francesco , Casella Stefania , Assenza Anna , Marafioti Simona , Piccione Giuseppe
Published: November 2010

The aim of this study was to compare the daily rhythm of reactive oxygen metabolites (hydroperoxides), and serum barrier to oxidation in five different mammal species. Five female Comisana sheep, five female Maltese goats, five female Bruna cows and five female Thoroughbred horses were housed separately in boxes equipped with an opening window and five female Blue Vienna rabbits were individually housed in metallic cages. All animals were kept under natural photoperiod and indoor environmental conditions. Blood samples were collected every 3 h over a 48 h period for the assessment of hydroperoxides, antioxidant barrier (Oxy-ads) and thiol-antioxidant barrier (SHp). A two-way for repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant effect of time of day and different species on all studied parameters. Daily rhythmicity of hydroperoxides, Oxy-ads and SHp were observed in all studied species. Nocturnal acrophases were observed in sheep, goats and rabbits, diurnal acrophases were observed in cattle and horse. We conclude that there is a synergism of the daily rhythms of hydroperoxides and anti-oxidant power in the different species studied, and that this synergism is typical of each species.
Synthesis, crystal structure, and thermal analysis of a copper(II) complex with imidazo[4,5-f]1,10-phenantroline
Authors: Yu Fushan , Zhang Lingling , Tan Jinting , Li Xia , Wang Lijun , Liu Fei , Yang Xuwu
Published: November 2010

A new complex, [Cu2(μ 2-Cl)2(IP)2Cl2] · 4H2O (IP = imidazo[4,5-f]1,10-phenathroline), was synthesised and characterised by elemental analysis, thermal analysis, IR spectra, and X-ray crystallography. The results showed that the complex crystallises in the monoclinic space group P $$ \bar 1 $$; a = 7.880 (2) Å, b = 9.227(2) Å, c = 10.694(2) Å; α = 97.788(4)°, β = 100.637(4)°, γ = 95.841(3)°; V = 750.7(3) Å3, and Z = 1. The complex is further stabilised by H-bonds and a π-π stacking interaction between the pyridine and benzene rings of two neighbouring molecules with the centroid.centroid distance of 3.498(3) Å, leading to a 3D supramolecular architecture. Thermal decomposition procedure of the complex explored by TG-DTG has three stages, and the final product is Cu in residual rate of 16.18 % (calculated to be 16.26 %).
CAD system for automatic analysis of CT perfusion maps
Authors: Hachaj T. , Ogiela M.R.
Published: November 2010

In this article, authors present novel algorithms developed for the computer-assisted diagnosis (CAD) system for analysis of dynamic brain perfusion, computer tomography (CT) maps, cerebral blood flow (CBF), and cerebral blood volume (CBV). Those methods perform both quantitative analysis [detection and measurement and description with brain anatomy atlas (AA) of potential asymmetries/lesions] and qualitative analysis (semantic interpretation of visualized symptoms). The semantic interpretation (decision about type of lesion: ischemic/hemorrhagic, is the brain tissue at risk of infraction or not) of visualized symptoms is done by, so-called, cognitive inference processes allowing for reasoning on character of pathological regions based on specialist image knowledge. The whole system is implemented in.NET platform (C# programming language) and can be used on any standard PC computer with.NET framework installed.
Paediatric Day Care Inguinal Hernia Surgery in a General Hospital: A Prospective Study on Change in Practice
Authors: Shah JN , Subedi N
Published: November 2010

Introduction: This prospective study was undertaken to observe the prospects of daycare inguinal hernia surgery in general hospital setup in a developing country like Nepal and to assess the advantages, acceptability and safety of this approach. Methodology: The study was carried out prospectively for one year from March 2009- Feb 2010. Before surgery, children were examined in surgical referral clinic (SRC). Parents were given verbal and written instructions for pre-operative fasting. Operations were carried out under intravenous anesthesia without intubation by experienced consultant general surgeon or by registrar under supervision. Children were observed in recovery area till conscious. Once awake, the children were handed over to parents for further observation till fully conscious and could tolerate liquid. Oral Paracetamol and homecare instructions were given to parents. Appointment slip was given for follow up visit in SRC within 3-5 days. Results: There were 90 children, male 81 (89%), age 2 months to 13 years. Right inguinal hernias were 62 (70%). There were no major complications, mortality or readmission. Saving in terms of less disruption of routine work at home and office was more appreciated by parents. Conclusion: We conclude that day care inguinal hernia surgery in children in our setup is safe, economic well accepted by child and parent's both. Key words: Children; Day case hernia surgery; Paediatric inguinal hernia DOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3913J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):128-131
An Epidemiological Study of Snake Bite Cases in Children of Nepal
Authors: Joshi DD
Published: November 2010

Introduction: Snakebite is common in the Terai region of Nepal. Injury and mortality of humans due to Snake envenomation is a serious pubic health problem in Southeast Asia and Nepal. It has been thought that at least 50,000 people in the region die of snake bites (this includes India, Bangladesh and Nepal and Pakistan) per year. There are abundant venomous snakes present in the region. Studies in Nepal have identified 4 species of snake responsible for the majority of fatal bites. These are the Indian cobra (Naja naja), common krait (Bungaris caeruleus) Russell's viper (Viper ressellii) and greenpit viper. The incidence of snakebite varies from 300-500 bites per 100,000 human populations in forested regions to 50-100 bites per 100,000 in Sahara. Objective: To study the epidemiology of snakebite in the endemic regions of the terai, to analyse the morbidity and mortality data of snakebite cases in children for the year 2008. Method: National Zoonoses and Food Hygiene Research Centre (NZFHRC) started collection of secondary and primary information on snakebite cases in children recorded and reported by different media and hospitals, health post in Nepal during the year 2008. The data had been compiled, tabulated and analysed. This is the regular surveillance study carried out on snakes in general and venomous snakebite human cases recorded in Nepal. The team visited in 6 mid, hill districts and 24 terai districts of Nepal. Results: Total snakebite cases in children were 540 during the year 2008. Of which 10 cases were from six mid hill districts and 530 were from 24 terai and inner terai districts of Nepal. Total morbidity was 406 (75.19%) and mortality 134 (24.81%). Seasonal incidence of snakebite cases recorded in Bheri zonal hospital and medical college Banke district. Highest morbidity were recorded during the month of Jestha (May) to Aswin (August). Morbidity 12 (25%) and mortality 3 (20%) were recorded in the month of May/June 2008. Conclusions: Snakebite cases in children and deaths were recorded and reported along with adult cases of snakebite. Total adult cases were 2190 of which children were 540 (24.66%) during the year 2008. This means that about 25% of all cases of snakebites were seen in children every year in the endemic areas of snakes. Mass awareness school education programme about snakebite especially in endemic area of terai and inner districts should be advocated regularly so that parents along with children will take necessary precautions. Key words: Snakebite; Epidemiological surveillance; Anti-snake venom; Poisonous and envenomation.DOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3915J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):135-140
Clinical Profile of Birth Asphyxia in Dhulikhel Hospital: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Dongol S , Singh J , Shrestha S , Shakya A
Published: November 2010

Introduction: Birth asphyxia is defined by the World Health Organization "the failure to initiate and sustain breathing at birth." The WHO has estimated that 4 million babies die during the neonatal period every year and 99% of these deaths occur in low-income and middle income countries. Three major causes account for over three quarters of these deaths, serious infection (28%) complication of preterm birth (26%) and birth asphyxia (23%). This estimation implies that birth asphyxia is the cause of around one million neonatal deaths each year. One of the present challenges is the lack of a gold standard for accurately defining birth asphyxia. Because of same reason the incidence of birth asphyxia is difficult to quantify. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of birth asphyxia, identify the common obstetric and neonatal risk factors, and study the cause of death. Methodology: All babies born in Dhulikhel Hospital (DH) from Jan 2007 to Oct 2009 with a diagnosis of birth asphyxia (5 min Apgar < 7 and those with no spontaneous respirations after birth) were included in the study (n=102). Clinical information was collected retrospectively from maternal records (maternal age, gravida, type of delivery, presence of meconium, induced or spontaneous labour, and pregnancy complications). The NICU records provided additional information about new born infant (birth asphyxia, stages of birth asphyxia, birth weight, sex and subsequent mortality). Results: Among the 3784 live births there were 102 babies with birth asphyxia prevalence of 26.9/1000 live births. Babies with Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) Stage 1 had a very good outcome but HIE III was associated with a poor outcome. Males, primipara and pregnancies with complications were associated with a higher rate of birth asphyxia. Septicaemia, necrotizing enterocolitis, preterm delivery, convulsion and, pneumothorax were associated with higher mortality and morbidity. Conclusion: Birth asphyxia was one of the commonest causes of admission and mortality in NICU. Babies with HIE Stage III had a very poor prognosis. Birth asphyxia combined with other morbidities was associated with a higher mortality. Sepsis is the commonest morbidity in cases of birth asphyxia. Maternal gravida, pregnancy complication with PROM, meconium, APH, emergency caesarean section, preterm and male sex were the risk factors for birth asphyxia. Key words: Birth asphyxia; HIE; Neonatal sepsisDOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3916J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):141-146
Adolescent Pregnancy Complication and Wastage in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman MM , Hasan M , Akhtar S , Sultana P
Published: November 2010

Introduction: Pregnancy among adolescents is a health risk for the individual as well as the fetus. The main aim of this study is to examine the pregnancy complications and its outcome among adolescent women in Northern region (Rajshahi) of Bangladesh. Methods: The analysis is based on a part of faculty research; University of Rajshahi funded study on adolescent motherhood and pregnancy complications in the region, which involved a micro level survey of 400 adolescent conception aged 10-19 and in-depth interviews with 37 adolescents who had experienced pregnancy wastage. The indicator of poor pregnancy outcomes analysed includes pregnancy or delivery complications and pregnancy wastage. Results: A striking finding is the higher proportions suffer pregnancy problems, especially in cases of early conception. In particular, younger adolescent aged under 20 years has been observed to have the highest proportions of delivery complications and pregnancy wastage due to insufficient intake foods and possible biological immaturity. Conclusion: Early teenage pregnancy and its effects pose very severe different pregnancy and delivery complications consequently wastage. Key words: Adolescent; Pregnancy; Wastage; Odds ratio DOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3917J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):147-153
Dyslipidemia and Superoxide Dismutase Activity in Children with Down Syndrome
Authors: Goyal P , Singh R , Yadav A , Dutta AK , Bhattacharjee J
Published: November 2010

Introduction: Down Syndrome (trisomy 21) provides an interesting natural model to study atherosclerosis, since these individuals appear to be protected from plaque formation. Methodology: We assessed the lipid levels, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in 32 clinically diagnosed children of Down syndrome and 34 children matched for age and sex as controls. Results: SOD activity was found to be significantly higher (p=0.004) in children with Down Syndrome (mean=313.7 IU/ml) than in controls (mean140.2 IU/ ml). Significantly higher levels of serum triglyceride (154.7 mg/dl) and VLDL (33.9 mg/dl) were observed in Down Syndrome as compared to healthy controls (119.6 mg/dl and 23.9 mg/dl respectively; p<0.05 for each). However, the two groups did not show any significant difference in levels of serum HDL-C, LDL-C. Conclusion: The raised antioxidant activity of SOD, because of over expression of genes situated non chromosome 21, probably offers some protection against the development of atherosclerosis despite the occurrence of dyslipidemia. Key words: Chromosome 21; Down Syndrome; Trisomy 21; Superoxide dismutase.  DOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3919J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):160-163
Sturge Weber Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Devkota S , Upadhyay S
Published: November 2010

Sturge-Weber syndrome is a neurocutaneous syndrome characterized by port wine stain, congenital glaucoma, and underlying anomalous leptomeningeal venous plexus and the lack of normal cortical venous drainage. It is a congenital but not an inherited disease and it occurs sporadically and is very rare, incidence being approximately 1 on 50000. It occurs with rare exception but occasionally the other members of the family may have hemangiomata of a lesser degree.  DOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3920J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):164-165
Fournier’s Gangrene in a Neonate: A Case Report
Authors: Baghel B , Dhruv K
Published: November 2010

A 15 days newborn presented to paediatric OPD for evaluation of abdominal distension, not accepting feed properly and scrotal swelling. On examination gangrene was found on the scrotum, blood culture showed growth of streptococcal organism. Patient was treated with 3rd generation cephalosporin and local debridement of gangrenous scrotal tissue. Wound got healed by secondary intention and patient was discharged alive and healthy. The outcome of treatment of Fournier’s gangrene in neonate is good. Key words: Fournier’s gangrene; Septicemia; Scrotal swelling; Phimosis; Wound debridement. DOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3921J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):166-167
Pasmodium Vivax Malaria Complicated by Neurological, Jaundice and Haemophagocytic Syndrome
Authors: Ram Kumar TV , Baghmar S
Published: November 2010

We are describing a case of plasmodium vivax malaria in a child with complications including pancytopenia secondary to marrow involvement, jaundice and neurological features. The child improved with antimalarial treatment.DOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3922J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):168-170
Asthma: A Risk Factor for Dental Caries?
Authors: Thomas MS , Parolia A , Kundabala M
Published: November 2010

This report points out a correlation between asthma and dental caries. It also gives certain guidelines on the measures to be taken in an asthmatic to negate the risk of dental caries.Key words: Asthma, Caries risk, Caries prevention, Dental cariesDOI: 10.3126/jnps.v30i3.3929J Nep Paedtr Soc 2010;30(3):175-176
Thermodynamic re-modeling of the Co–Gd system
Authors: Wang Wei , Guo Cuiping , Li Changrong , Du Zhenmin
Published: November 2010

The Co–Gd system was re-assessed using the CALPHAD technique. The solution phases (liquid, body-centered cubic, face-centered cubic and hexagonal close-packed) were described by the substitutional solution model. The temperature dependence of the interaction parameters of the liquid phase was separately expressed by the linear function and Kaptay equation. The intermetallic compounds Co17Gd2 and Co5Gd, which have the same CaCu5-type structure, were treated as one phase and described by a three-sublattice model (Co2, Gd)(Co2, Gd)2Co15, with Co2 and Gd mixing on the first and second sublattices and the third sublattice occupied by Co. The other compounds (Co7Gd2, Co3 Gd, Co2Gd, Co3Gd4 and CoGd3) were treated as stoichiometric compounds. Two sets of self-consistent thermodynamic parameters of the Co–Gd system were obtained.
Microstructure and tribological properties of in-situ Y2O3/Ti-5Si alloy composites
Authors: Zhan Yongzhong , Zhang Xinjiang , Yang Wenchao , Huang Qingxiao
Published: November 2010

The Y2O3/Ti-5Si alloy composites were prepared by nonconsumable vacuum arc melting through the synthesis reaction from Ti, Si, Y and SiO2. The thermodynamics of the insitu synthesis reaction were analyzed. Microstructural analysis showed that the Ti5Si3 and Y2O3 reinforcements were in-situ synthesized in the Ti matrix. Continuous and quasicontinuous network-shape Ti5Si3 + Ti eutectic cells are abundant, and Y2O3 grows from near-equiaxed shape to dendritic shape with increasing Y content in the composite. The introduction of in-situ Y2O3 particles results in a strong interfacial bonding between the reinforcement and matrix, which can significantly improve the wear resistance and frictional stability of Ti–Si alloy, due to the load-bearing function of the Y2O3 particles and the Ti5Si3 phase. Homogeneous distribution of the in-situ reinforcements helps to resist the propagation of subsurface microcracks and then improve the wear properties of in-situ composites.
Phase relations in the ZrO2–Nd2O3–Y2O3 system: experimental study and CALPHAD assessment
Authors: Fabrichnaya Olga , Savinykh Galina , Schreiber Gerhard , Seifert Hans J.
Published: November 2010

The thermodynamic parameters of the Nd2O3–Y2O3 system were re-assessed for better reproduction of experimental data. The thermodynamic parameters were combined from binary descriptions to calculate phase diagrams for the ternary system ZrO2–Nd2O3–Y2O3. The calculated phase diagrams were used to select compositions for the experimental studies at 1 250, 1400 and 1 600°C. The samples were synthesised by co-precipitation and heat treated at 1 250–1 600 °C, investigated by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive Xray spectroscopy. It was found that solubility of the Y2O3 in the pyrochlore phase exceeds 10 mol.%. The experimental data obtained for phase equilibra were used to derive thermodynamic parameters for fluorite, Y2O3 cubic phase C, monoclinic B and Nd2O3 hexagonal A phases by CALPHAD method. The isothermal sections and liquidus surface were calculated for the ZrO2–Nd2O3–Y2O3 system.
Thermodynamic assessment of the Cr–Al–Nb system
Authors: He Cuiyun , Stein Frank
Published: November 2010

A thermodynamic assessment of the Cr–Al–Nb system was performed using the CALPHAD technique on the basis of new experimental data on three isothermal sections at 1 150, 1300 and 1 450 °C as well as the available earlier literature data. The ternary phase diagram is dominated by an extended phase field of the Laves phase Nb(Cr, Al)2. Both the cubic C15 and the hexagonal C14 structure type of Laves phases occur as stable phase in the ternary system. A two-sublattice model was used for their thermodynamic description. The ternary solubilities of the (Nb) and (Cr) solid solutions and the binary phases NbAl3, Nb2Al and Nb3Al were taken into account in the ternary assessment. Several isothermal sections were calculated using the evaluated parameters. Good agreement between the calculations and the experimental data is achieved.
Elastic constants and thermophysical properties of Al–Mg–Si alloys from first-principles calculations
Authors: Liu Fenglian , Guo Fei , Chen Hongmei , Ouyang Yifang , Tao Xiaoma , Feng Yuanping , Du Yong
Published: November 2010

The lattice constants and elastic constants for Al–Mg–Si alloys have been calculated by using first-principles total energy calculations within the generalized gradient approximation. The calculated results are in good agreement with available experimental and theoretical results. The polycrystalline shear modulus, Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio are also estimated from the calculated single crystalline elastic constants. The Young's modulus and shear modulus increase following the precipitation sequence in Al–Mg–Si. The Debye sound velocity, Debye temperature, Grüneisen constant, heat capacity and linear coefficients of thermal expansion are predicted for the considered Al–Mg–Si alloys based on the Debye–Grüneisen model. The calculated values of Mg2Si agree well with the previous experimental and theoretical results.
Predicting microsegregation in multicomponent aluminum alloys – progress in thermodynamic consistency
Authors: Löffler Andrea , Hack Klaus , Rettenmayr Markus
Published: November 2010

Recent developments in modeling the interaction of thermodynamics and kinetics during microsegregation formation in multicomponent alloys are reported. A model accounting for solid state back diffusion, dendrite arm coarsening, dendrite tip undercooling, eutectic undercooling and thermodynamic correction of the interface concentrations is presented. By coupling the solution of the diffusion equation in the liquid and solid phases with the thermochemistry library ChemApp, the phase equilibria at the solid–liquid interface are calculated at each time step. Using an activity based method for identifying multiphase equilibria and metastable extensions of the stability range of phases, a thermodynamically consistent implementation of eutectic undercooling in multicomponent systems is achieved. The model is equipped with a userfriendly interface that allows setting the model parameters interactively and that presents the results (solute distribution, phase fractions, secondary arm spacing) in a pertinent way.
Reactive Blending of Thermoplastic Polyurethane and Polypropylene
Authors: Jaruttrakool R. , Tanpichai S. , Pentrakoon D. , Potiyaraj P.
Published: November 2010

In this research, reactive blending of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polypropylene (PP) was studied. Grafting of maleic anhydride (MAH) onto TPU/PP blends was performed by a twin-screw extruder in the presence of dicumyl peroxide (DCP). Mechanical properties and morphology of the blends were investigated by tensile testing and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Thermal properties of the blends were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The obtained results were compared with those of the uncompatibilized blends and the blends compatibilized with a commercial maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MA). The results from the uncompatibilized blends clearly indicate that the TPU and PP are immiscible resulting in undesirable properties of the blends. These properties were improved significantly when TPU and PP were reactive-blended in the presence of MAH and DCP. When comparing with the blends compatibilized with PP-g-MA, the blends prepared by the reactive blending technique possessed better mechanical properties.
Structure Development in the Melt Spinning of Polypropylene/Ethylene Butene Copolymer Blends and Birefringence Suppression Effect
Authors: Yang J. , Jiang Q. , White J. L.
Published: November 2010

Polypropylene (PP)/ethylene butene copolymer (EBM) blends were melt-spun into fibers. The fiber orientation was determined by wide angle diffraction (WAXS) and birefringence. The birefringence of the blend fibers was much lower than that of the pure PP or EBM filaments spun at the same stresses. WAXS study showed that the PP phase had the same orientation versus stress relationship in its blends and in its pure state. However, EBM phase demonstrated much lower birefringence in its blends than in its pure state. The mechanism was explained as following. In melt spinning of the blends, the PP phase crystallized first. Before the PP phase crystallized, both PP and EBM phase had comparable modulus leading uniform stress distribution. After the PP phase crystallized, the modulus of PP phase became much larger than that of the EBM melt. Thus it would take most of the stress if it was the continuous phase leaving the EBM phase crystallizing at much lower stresses. This led to a large birefringence suppression of the EBM phase. In melt spinning of the blends with only 1 to 10 wt.% of PP, the dispersed PP phase could coalesce into a continuous surface layer. Thus small amount of PP could largely decrease the birefringence of EBM fibers.