bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Devil in the Details: Success and Failure of Haiti's Nonengineered Structures
Authors: Lang Anna F. , Marshall Justin D.
Published: October 2011

The Mw 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti on 12 January 2010 exposed deeply rooted weaknesses of the built environment. Numerous factors contributed to the severity of this disaster, including building materials, design, construction, and oversight, all of which were deficient and represent a lower bound condition. Yet despite poor quality, some structures were undamaged. A minor change in construction sequence resulted in an altered load path and a drastically different outcome for some buildings. Infilled frame systems performed poorly and account for the majority of structural collapses. Buildings assembled in a manner similar to confined masonry, however, performed well and experienced little damage. Damage assessments conducted around Port-au-Prince reveal that 20% of the housing stock was completely destroyed and 27% was significantly damaged. These assessments illuminate Haiti's vulnerability to future and repeated devastation, since the remaining damaged and brittle structures could likely not sustain additional excitation.
Interactive On-Site and Remote Damage Assessment for Urban Search and Rescue
Authors: Thorvaldsdóttir Solveig , Birgisson Erlendur , Sigbjornsson Ragnar
Published: October 2011

Extraction of victims entrapped in collapsed structures is the objective of urban search and rescue (USAR) operations. Assessing the potential for live victims and the stability of partially or totally collapsed structures are critical aspects of such operations. This paper outlines relevant activities of the first USAR team arriving in Haiti after the January 2010 earthquake and the supporting actions of their home-base team. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the different aspects of damage assessment and discuss how those aspects relate to overall USAR field operations. Guidelines developed for USAR teams are used to shed additional light on the concept of USAR-related damage assessment. Three broad types of considerations are found to constitute damage assessment, requiring varying levels of detail in damage descriptions: area reconnaissance, exterior structural evaluation, and interior structural-member evaluation. Using available information and communication technology, a home-base team can become an active player in area reconnaissance by providing pre- and post-impact information about the affected area to the USAR team.
Seismic Performance of Port de Port-au-Prince during the Haiti Earthquake and Post-Earthquake Restoration of Cargo Throughput
Authors: Werner Stuart , McCullough Nason , Bruin William , Augustine Alex , Rix Glenn , Crowder Brian , Tomblin Joshua
Published: October 2011

The Port de Port-au-Prince is the largest seaport in Haiti, and is essential to the country's economy. The Haiti earthquake severely damaged the Port, which disrupted the transport of cargoes into Haiti that were vital to the country's emergency response and post-earthquake recovery. Major contributors to this damage were widespread soil liquefaction, the poor performance of batter piles, and the poor pre-earthquake condition of many components of the Port's waterfront structures. Immediately after the earthquake, a U.S. military task force was deployed to the port to perform emergency repairs needed to reestablish cargo throughput. These repairs restored a significant cargo-throughput capacity at this small but vital seaport within weeks after the earthquake.
Unraveling the ischemic brain transcriptome in a permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion mouse model by DNA microarray analysis
Authors: Hori Motohide , Nakamachi Tomoya , Rakwal Randeep , Shibato Junko , Nakamura Keisuke , Wada Yoshihiro , Tsuchikawa Daisuke , Yoshikawa Akira , Tamaki Keiji , Shioda Seiji
Published: October 2011

Brain ischemia, also termed cerebral ischemia, is a condition in which there is insufficient blood flow to the brain to meet metabolic demand, leading to tissue death (cerebral infarction) due to poor oxygen supply (cerebral hypoxia). Our group is interested in the protective effects of neuropeptides for alleviating brain ischemia, as well as the underlying mechanisms of their action. The present study was initiated to investigate molecular responses at the level of gene expression in ischemic brain tissue. To achieve this, we used a mouse permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (PMCAO) model in combination with high-throughput DNA microarray analysis on an Agilent microarray platform. Briefly, the right (ipsilateral) and left (contralateral) hemispheres of PMCAO model mice were dissected at two time points, 6 and 24 hours post-ischemia. Total RNA from the ischemic (ipsilateral) hemisphere was subjected to DNA microarray analysis on a mouse whole genome 4x44K DNA chip using a dye-swap approach. Functional categorization using the gene ontology (GO, MGD/AMIGO) of numerous changed genes revealed expression pattern changes in the major categories of cellular process, biological regulation, regulation of biological process, metabolic process and response to stimulus. Reverse-transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) analysis on randomly selected highly up- or downregulated genes validated, in general, the microarray data. Using two time points for this analysis, major and minor trends in gene expression and/or functions were observed in relation to early- and late-response genes and differentially regulated genes that were further classified into specific pathways or disease states. We also examined the expression of these genes in the contralateral hemisphere, which suggested the presence of bilateral effects and/or differential regulation. This study provides the first ischemia-related transcriptome analysis of the mouse brain, laying a strong foundation for studies designed to elucidate the mechanisms regulating ischemia and to explore the neuroprotective effects of agents such as target neuropeptides.
A Cohort Study to Evaluate Emergency Medicine Ultrasound by Non-Sonographers in Clinical Practice
Authors: McGuinness Alison , Snaith Beverly , Wilson Jean , Wolstenhulme Stephen
Published: October 2011

Previous research has evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of emergency medicine ultrasound (EMU); however, the literature on clinical governance issues such as the quality of training, competence of the operator, development of clinical guidelines or standard setting within individual trusts is very limited. Although national guidelines have been issued regarding governance of non-radiology performed ultrasound, it is unclear whether the expectations provided within the guidance are being implemented in clinical practice.

The aim of this study was to explore the clinical governance and service provision of emergency medicine practitioners who had attended a two-day formal training course on EMU. The method used was a prospective non-randomized study using an electronic questionnaire to 160 clinicians who had attended a two-day EMU course. The questions investigated the clinicians’ EMU clinical practice in their departments including profession, grade, number of scans, types of examinations, equipment used and clinical governance arrangements such as scope of practice, audit, guidelines, support, archiving of reports and images. Responses were obtained from 59 of 160 (37%) delegates. The mean time they had been involved in emergency medicine was 8.31 years. Most (73%) were performing EMU in their current roles. Nearly all (86%) felt that the two-day course had given them adequate training and over half were performing extra examinations to those taught on the course. Only 23 (39%) respondents had supervision in their workplace after the course. Less than half (46%) were aware of national EMU guidelines, and only 22% of respondents indicated there were local clinical guidelines in place. A significant proportion of departments (37%) do not undertake audit. In conclusion, most of the respondents were not aware of the national guidelines around EMU and there was a lack of evidence that clinical governance issues were being enforced by all trusts. Many departments showed a limited use of clinical guidelines, audit regimes or competency assessment.
Self-Exited Oscillation in a Combustion Chamber Driven by Phase Change in the Liquid Fuel Feed System
Authors: Hassa C. , Heinze J. , Meier U. , Heeger Ch , Trunk Ph , Dreizler A.
Published: October 2011

A new mechanism for the generation of a self-exited oscillation of combustion in a generic combustion chamber typical for aeroengine combustors is described. The cause of the oscillation is the phase change from liquid to vapour which happens when the preheat temperature of the air flowing through the burner exceeds the boiling temperature at the operating pressure and the fuel flow is so low that heat transfer to the liquid fuel causes evaporation within the fuel channels of the burner. Liquid fuel and vapour alternatively enter the airstream of the burner. This leads to an unstable situation for the flame. Measurements of chemiluminescence and liquid fuel show nearly complete extinction and re-ignition for the limit cycle. Prevention of the oscillation is possible by better thermal management of the fuel path.
Probing Dense Sprays with Gated, Picosecond, Digital Particle Field Holography
Authors: Trolinger James , Buckner Ben , Tomov Ivan , Van der Veer Wytze , Dunn-Rankin Derek , Garman John
Published: October 2011

This paper describes work that demonstrated the feasibility of producing a gated digital holography system that is capable of producing high-resolution images of three-dimensional particle and structure details deep within dense particle fields of a spray. We developed a gated picosecond digital holocamera, using optical Kerr cell gating, to demonstrate features of gated digital holography that make it an exceptional candidate for this application. The Kerr cell gate shuttered the camera after the initial burst of ballistic and snake photons had been recorded, suppressing longer path, multiple scattered illumination. By starting with a CW laser without gating and then incorporating a picosecond laser and an optical Kerr gate, we were able to assess the imaging quality of the gated holograms, and determine improvement gained by gating. We produced high quality images of 50–200 μm diameter particles, hairs and USAF resolution charts from digital holograms recorded through turbid media where more than 98% of the light was scattered from the field. The system can gate pulses as short as 3 mm in pathlength (10 ps), enabling image-improving features of the system. The experiments lead us to the conclusion that this method has an excellent capability as a diagnostics tool in dense spray combustion research.
Molecular Diagnostics of Calcineurin-Related Pathologies
Authors: Musson Ruben E A , Cobbaert Christa M , Smit Nico P M
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND

The Ca2+-dependent protein phosphatase enzyme calcineurin (Cn) (protein phosphatase 3) is best known for its role as director of the adaptive immune response. One of its principal substrates is the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT), which translocates to the nucleus after dephosphorylation to mediate gene transcription. Drugs targeting Cn (the Cn inhibitors tacrolimus and cyclosporin A) have revolutionized posttransplantation therapy in allograft recipients by considerably reducing rejection rates.

CONTENT

Owing primarily to intensive study of the side effects of the Cn inhibitors, the unique importance of Cn and Cn/NFAT signaling in the normal physiological processes of many other cell and tissue types is becoming more evident. During the last decade, it has become clear that an extensive and diverse array of clinical conditions can be traced back, at least in part, to a disturbed Cn-signaling axis. Hence, both diagnostics and therapeutic monitoring could benefit from a technique that conveniently reads out Cn/NFAT operative status.

This review outlines the current knowledge on the pathologic conditions that have calcineurin as a common denominator and reports on the progress that has been made toward successfully applying Cn and Cn/NFAT activity markers in molecular diagnostics.
Hisham Djait über die „Geschichtlichkeit der Verkündigung Muḥammads“
Authors: Sinai Nicolai
Published: October 2011

The article briefly examines two recent monographs on the biography of Muḥammad and the genesis of the Qur'ān by the Tunisian historian Hisham Djait. Both the general methodological assumptions of Djait's studies and representative examples of his approach are presented. It is argued that one of Djait's most significant insights consists in his recognition of the necessity of critically juxtaposing the Qur'ānic text with later Islamic amplifications and narrative contextualizations. The article also discusses Djait's use of Western Qur'ān scholarship and his romantically inspired portrayal of Muḥammad as a religious genius.
Ibn Taymiyya's Criticism of the Syllogism
Authors: Rayan Sobhi
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this study is to examine Ibn Taymiyya's criticism of Aristotelian logic, and to test the arguments he raises against it, as well as the theory he proposes as an alternative.

Ibn Taymiyya tries to prove that Aristotelian logic cannot contribute to knowledge because it is based on metaphysical foundations. He raises arguments that are intended to expose the contradictions of Aristotelian logic. These arguments are based partly on the principles of relativity and skepticism, and partly on empirical presuppositions.

Ibn Taymiyya proposed the use of analogical reasoning (qiyās al-tamthīl) which is a type of evaluation and measurement based on the comparison between particulars, or the relations between two similar or dissimilar things. It can be seen that the most important and decisive thing in this relation is the common attribute that links two particular occurrences. Therefore, this inference deals with the relations between things and the causal connections between them. This is expressed in the research method used in the Islamic juridical sciences, which are causal methods, such as: the coextensiveness and coexclusiveness (ṭard wa-῾aks), coextensiveness-cum-coexclusiveness (dawarān), and classification and successive elimination (al-sabr wa l-taqsīm).
Aḥmad Sirhindī: A 21st-century update
Authors: Buehler Arthur F.
Published: October 2011

This article revises current understandings of the Indian Naqshbandī Shaykh, Aḥmad Sirhindī (d. 1624). It moves analytically beyond the pioneering and balanced scholarly accounts of Yohanan Friedmann and J.G.J. ter Haar, directly addressing the issues that Sirhindī's modern scholarly detractors have considered his most alarming statements and alleged exaggerated claims. Looking sociologically at Sirhindī's ashrāfī social context and his role as a sufi teacher the article demonstrates the logic of many of his shocking statements, some of which involve personal issues that have yet to be discussed in western scholarly literature. Finally, the so-called “controversy” generated between two perspectives of unity (waḥdat-i wujūd and waḥdat-i shuhūd) has been vastly overstated in the scholarly literature. The overall sufi consensus is that there is no real controversy. Indeed, both Ibn al-Ἁrabī and Sirhindī agree that these two valid modes of unity are simply two ways of perceiving the One.
Polymer-derived SiOC–CNT paper as lithium-ion battery anodes
Authors: Bhandavat Romil , Cologna Marco , Singh Gurpreet
Published: October 2011

The authors demonstrate the synthesis of a freestanding composite paper consisting of polymer-derived ceramic Silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) functionalized carbon nanotube (CNT) network. The paper is prepared by vacuum filtration of CNT followed by drop coating of tetramethyl tetravinylcyclotertrasiloxane polymer on its surface. The polymer coating on the CNT paper is then transformed to silicon oxycarbide ceramic by controlled heating. Scanning electron microscopy reveals a uniform and compact CNT paper surface with thickness of ∼225 μm. An X-ray diffraction spectrum of the composite paper highlight the amorphous nature of ceramic coating surrounding the CNTs. The authors further demonstrate the use of this paper as an independent anode material in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and thereby, simplifying the anode design by eliminating the binder, conductive additives and current collector metal. The composite paper anode weighs ∼37% less than those made by using conventional copper substrates. Electrochemical performance of the SiOC–CNT composite anode studied by initial galvanostatic cycles shows a high discharge capacity of 1168 mAh/g and 13 mAh/cm2 with first cycle loss of 53·8%.
Perception of Risk of Vertically Acquired HIV Infection and Acceptability of Provider-Initiated Testing and Counseling Among Adolescents in Zimbabwe
Authors: Ferrand Rashida A. , Trigg Caroline , Bandason Tsitsi , Ndhlovu Chiratidzo E. , Mungofa Stanley , Nathoo Kusum , Gibb Diana M. , Cowan Frances M. , Corbett Elizabeth L.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. We investigated attitudes toward provider-initiated HIV testing and counseling (PITC) in the suburbs of Harare, Zimbabwe, where late presentation after mother-to-child HIV transmission (MTCT) is a major cause of adolescent mortality.

Methods. Adolescents (10–18 years) attending 2 primary clinics were offered PITC. Participants completed a questionnaire investigating acceptability of PITC, and in-depth interviews with 41 adolescents and 30 guardians explored understanding of long-term survival after MTCT.

Results. Of 506 participants, 16 were known to be HIV-positive; of the remaining 490, only 5 (1%) declined HIV testing. Infected adolescents and their guardians often anticipated a positive result and reported being advised by relatives (but not health workers) to be tested because of chronic illness, especially if parents or siblings had died or were HIV-infected. However, HIV-negative participants were not aware that long-term survival following MTCT could occur. All adolescents felt that HIV diagnosed at their age would be assumed to have been sexually acquired regardless of the true mode of transmission.

Conclusions. Including late diagnosis of MTCT in pretest counseling and health educational messages may facilitate PITC for older children and adolescents, especially for those who have not had their sexual debut.
Expanding the Scope of Environmental Risk Assessment to Better Include Differential Vulnerability and Susceptibility
Authors: Schwartz Joel , Bellinger David , Glass Thomas
Published: October 2011

The central paradigm of the Environmental Protection Agency is risk assessment. We examined how differential responses across population groups could be better integrated into the environmental risk assessment process, providing tools to achieve greater equity in health status in addition to risk reduction.

Such integration was difficult with paradigms like reference dose and was easier with consideration of dose–response curves, which incorporated nontrivial effects observed at low doses for common exposures.

We identified 6 assumptions implicit in standard chemical risk assessments that should changed: (1) risk independence, (2) risk averaging, (3) risk nontransferability, (4) risk synchrony, (5) risk accumulation and chaining, and (6) quantification of numbers of persons above certain thresholds or limit values sufficient to characterize risk.
The Relationship of Oral Health Literacy and Self-Efficacy With Oral Health Status and Dental Neglect
Authors: Lee Jessica Y. , Divaris Kimon , Baker A. Diane , Rozier R. Gary , Vann William F.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. We examined the associations of oral health literacy (OHL) with oral health status (OHS) and dental neglect (DN), and we explored whether self-efficacy mediated or modified these associations.

Methods. We used interview data collected from 1280 female clients of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children from 2007 to 2009 as part of the Carolina Oral Health Literacy Project. We measured OHL with a validated word recognition test (REALD-30), and we measured OHS with the self-reported National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey item. Analyses used descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate methods.

Results. Less than one third of participants rated their OHS as very good or excellent. Higher OHL was associated with better OHS (for a 10-unit REALD increase: multivariate prevalence ratio = 1.29; 95% confidence interval = 1.08, 1.54). OHL was not correlated with DN, but self-efficacy showed a strong negative correlation with DN. Self-efficacy remained significantly associated with DN in a fully adjusted model that included OHL.

Conclusions. Increased OHL was associated with better OHS but not with DN. Self-efficacy was a strong correlate of DN and may mediate the effects of literacy on OHS.
Community Health Workers’ Perspectives on Their Contribution to Rural Health and Well-Being in Iran
Authors: Javanparast Sara , Baum Fran , Labonte Ronald , Sanders David
Published: October 2011

Objectives. The activities of community health workers (CHWs) have been identified as key to improvements in the health of Iran's rural population. We explored the perceptions of CHWs regarding their contribution to rural health in Iran.

Methods. Three research assistants familiar with the Iranian primary health care network conducted face-to-face interviews with CHWs in 18 provinces in Iran.

Results. Findings showed that Iranian CHWs have an in-depth understanding of health, including its social determinants, and are responsible for a wide range of activities. Respondents reported that trust-based relationships with rural communities, an altruistic motivation to serve rural people, and sound health knowledge and skills are the most important factors facilitating successful implementation of the CHW program in Iran. By contrast, high workload and the lack of a support system were mentioned as barriers to effective performance.

Conclusions. The CHW program in Iran is a compelling example of comprehensive primary health care, in that CHWs provide basic health care but also work with community members and other sectors to address the social determinants of health.
Community Health Workers Can Be a Public Health Force for Change in the United States: Three Actions for a New Paradigm
Authors: Balcazar Hector , Lee Rosenthal E. , Nell Brownstein J. , Rush Carl H. , Matos Sergio , Hernandez Lorenza
Published: October 2011

Community health workers (CHWs) have gained increased visibility in the United States. We discuss how to strengthen the roles of CHWs to enable them to become collaborative leaders in dramatically changing health care from “sickness care” systems to systems that provide comprehensive care for individuals and families and supports community and tribal wellness.

We recommend drawing on the full spectrum of CHWs’ roles so that they can make optimal contributions to health systems and the building of community capacity for health and wellness.

We also urge that CHWs be integrated into ”community health teams” as part of “medical homes” and that evaluation frameworks be improved to better measure community wellness and systems change.
Enzymatic in-situ generation of H2O2 for decolorization of Acid Blue 113 by fenton process
Authors: Karimi Afzal , Mahdizadeh Fatemeh , Eskandarian Mohammadreza
Published: October 2011

Decolorization of Acid Blue 113 in an aqueous medium by bio-Fenton process
has been investigated in this research. Enzymatic oxidation of glucose was
performed to in-situ generation of H2O2 which was employed to react with Fe2+
for producing hydroxyl radicals. The effect of various parameters include
concentrations of 113, glucose, and FeSO4, activity of glucose oxidase
(GOx) and the effect of pH were assessed. The highest decolorization of AB
113 were achieved at Fe2+ concentration of 0.2 mmol/L, pH =4.0, glucose
concentration of 0.018 mol/L, and glucose oxidase activity of 2500 U/L in the
constant temperature (23 ?0.1?C) and constant shaking rate (160 r/min), while
the concentration of 113 was 40 mg/L. In these conditions, 113
decolorization efficiency after 60 min was obtained about 95%.
Hybrid backup power supply for telecommunication systems based on fuel cell
Authors: Jovalekic Nikola , Lazic Miroslav , Sasic Boris
Published: October 2011

Telecommunication network nodes located at very hostile environments require, among other rigorous demands, highly reliable backup power supplies. Current solutions, which are mostly based on diesel generators, have several drawbacks such as unreliable start of a diesel generator at low temperatures, maintenance of the generator due to rotary parts, and the pollution of the environment which is caused by exhaustive fumes from a diesel engine. This paper proposes the implementation of backup power supply based on proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell and solar panel. In addition, it is also depicted the implementation of high-efficiency boost converter which provides adequate supply voltage for telecommunication devices. The benefits of the proposed solution are improved energy utilization, decreased need for maintenance and zero emission.
The Serbian idea in an era of confused historical consciousness
Authors: Mitrovic Milovan
Published: October 2011

This paper, represents a hypothetical consideration of the phenomenology of the Serbian national idea, within the traumatic circumstances of the breakup of the Yugoslav state at the end of the 20th century, when the Serbian national issue was reopened in an exceptionally unfavorable geopolitical context for the Serbian people. The author specifically analyzes the ideological and political factors behind the Serbian confusion with the theoretical framework of Agnes Heller's critical interpretation of history, which speaks of the 'confusion of historical consciousness' that began with World War I and was magnified by the Holocaust, Hiroshima, the Gulag and the European concentration camps. The author of this article adds the great Powers' Balkan interventions during the world wars to their dishonorable historical legacy, ending with their role in the creation and the breakup of Yugoslavia, at the expense of the Serbian people. The conclusion contains an appeal for a more rational national self-consciousness, founded in positive Serbian tradition and real insights into the social conditions that determine the processes in today's Serbian society and its environment.
Maurice Allais, fighter against unquestioned truths
Authors: Bujisic Branislava
Published: October 2011

The paper presents some less known theoretical views of the recently deceased Nobel laureate, Maurice Allais, which significantly diverge from certain 'unquestioned truths' of mainstream economics. Although a liberal and a cofounder of the Mont Pelerin Society, Allais was opposed to globalization and the simplified doctrine of free trade, and advocated reasonable protectionism. A convinced European and a proponent of European confederation, he was opposed to the Maastricht Treaty for its excessive emphasis on free trade. In his opinion, political union should precede economic integration. Finally, although a liberal and a monetarist, Allais did not believe in the self-regulating power of financial markets. He argued that radical reforms of the international financial and monetary system were necessary, by which the regulating mechanisms would be institutionalized. In 1988, he won the Nobel Prize in Economics 'for his pioneering contributions to the theory of markets and efficient utilization of resources'.
Organization of preparatory criminal proceedings
Authors: Lukic Tatjana
Published: October 2011

Our criminal law has been developing in the direction of democratization and respect of the minimum legal standards as a condition for an objective assessment of criminal offenses and the protection of human rights and the law does, more or less, like all social phenomena resist the rapid and radical change. The investigation, as part of criminal proceedings is undoubtedly the most important and also the most delicate part of the proceedings. The issue of different organization of the concept of the investigation raises many doubts, misunderstandings and difficulties. The last reform in our country did not bring significant changes for the organization of the preparatory stage of criminal proceedings, and this issue is not sufficiently addressed nor in the literature. In fact, there are different models of investigation. The question is whether the better results could be gained in some of the other models for organizing the investigation which currently exist in the world. The author addresses the following issues: analysis of the models of preparatory stages of criminal proceedings - a historical review, the center of the proceedings, the abolition of judicial investigation, the historical development of the model of investigation in Serbia.
The relationship between the members of parliament and political parties
Authors: Ciplic Svetozar
Published: October 2011

In this paper an attempt has been made to present one of the most prominent contradictions of the contemporary parliamentarianism in states which have a proportional voting system. This contradiction stems from the three-fold relationship between: a voter, a member of parliament (MP) and a political party from whose electoral list the MP is elected. On the one hand, a person does not have the possibility to be elected in the parliament if acting independently, outside the political party and its party mechanisms and logistical capacities. On the other hand, after being appointed the parliamentary term as a result of the party's will, the person attains the freedom, through their free term of office, to distance themselves from their political party, and even to leave it and join another political option. The paper also shows that this phenomenon significantly affects and deforms the principle of citizens' sovereignty, given that it is the political parties which have the major impact on the voters' sovereign will expressed at the elections. .
Poppies and Pedagogy: Learning from the ‘Great War’
Authors: McManus Alan
Published: October 2011

Teaching World War I (WWI) as history, teachers can be forgiven for focusing on the facts. A wide-angle view of the ‘Great War’ will take in the assassination in Sarajevo; Nationalism, Imperialism, Militarism and Alliances; battle maps and artillery; strategy and bodycounts; and the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations. But it may leave out the emotion still evoked by the war itself today. Emotion is often considered anathema by academics anxious to demonstrate their objectivity. However, the author argues that where there is emotion, there are values and that as educators, we have a duty to provide opportunities for learning from those four years, 1914–18, so that this war can come into focus as a warning for the Nationalism, Imperialism, Militarism and Alliances of today. His reflections are therefore offered not only for the inspiration of teachers of history but also for those leading discussions on themes of Citizenship and Values.
Global Citizenship and Lingual Identity: The Ability to Perform in Different Lingual Settings
Authors: Torpsten Ann-Christin
Published: October 2011

The aim of this article is to interpret second-language pupils' encounter with the Swedish school regarding first- and second-language learning. An empirical context called experienced learning is investigated by interpreting student teachers' oral and written narrated learning memories. Using a life-story approach, the interpretation focuses on lingual skills, lingual identity and citizenship. The study looks at participation in Swedish as a second language and mother tongue education when the subjects encountered the Swedish school system. Participating in those lessons is described as positive. Participating made it easier to improve skills in the second language and mother tongue. Mother tongue skills were transferred to the second-language improvement. It became much easier to continue developing the second language when skills in the mother tongue increased. Language skills were positive for continued learning, linguistic development, development of bilingualism and multilingualism. Through widened linguistic horizons it becomes possible to develop identity as multilingual persons. When skills increase in different languages such as Swedish as a second language and mother tongue, the subjects become aware of their identities as multilingual persons. They become aware of their possibilities of being active, multicultural, global citizens. Their ability to perform in different lingual settings becomes visible.
Morphological variability of the Carex oederi s. l. inflorescence
Authors: Więcław Helena
Published: October 2011

Morphological variability of the Carex oederi s. l. inflorescence

The most variable features describing Carex oederi s. l. include: (i) the distance between two lower female spikes, (ii) the length of the peduncle of a lower female spike, (iii) the distance between two upper female spikes, (iv) the length of inflorescence and peduncle of a male spike. Most of observed stems had (3)4-5 female spikes, which were crowded around a sessile and short male spike. Specimens with fewer female spikes (2-3) were characterized generally by their loose positioning on a stem (occasionally a lower female spike was distant and had a peduncle) and the presence of usually longer male spikes on a peduncle. In conclusion, C. oederi s. l. is highly variable morphologically. In the investigated materials, there are no apparent discontinuities. Further (planned) biometric research will be extended to the characteristics of the perygynium and vegetative features.
Contributions to the distribution and ecology of Carex hordeistichos Vill. in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Authors: Dítě Daniel , Grulich Vít , Eliáš Pavol
Published: October 2011

Contributions to the distribution and ecology of Carex hordeistichos Vill. in the Czech Republic and Slovakia

Current and historical occurrence as well as habitat requirements of Carex hordeistichos in the Czech Republic and Slovakia are presented. The study is based on the revision of herbarium specimens from 25 herbaria and a field survey carried out during 2004-2009. Altogether, 195 sites were documented in the Czech Republic, exclusively in the Moravia region. Recent occurrence was confirmed at only four localities (2% of sites), therefore the status of threat was confirmed - the species is critically endangered. In Slovakia, 184 localities of the species were recorded in total; 34 sites were found in period 1975-1999 and 35 sites were confirmed recently (19% of sites recorded), but only 6 in the Pannonia (3% of sites). The number of localities was stable over the last 35 years, therefore, we re-evaluated the IUCN status of C. hordeistichos in Slovakia. The species is now assessed in the category vulnerable - VU. Results of the study are summarised in the maps of historical and actual species distribution. C. hordeistichos usually occurred in various wet grassland communities and it had no well-defined coenotic relationships. On the basis of our knowledge, we consider C. hordeistichos as a facultative halophyte.
Invasive alien plant species of the southern part of the Nowogard Plain (NW Poland)
Authors: Konopska Karolina
Published: October 2011

Invasive alien plant species of the southern part of the Nowogard Plain (NW Poland)

Investigations on the distribution of selected invasive plant species in southern part of the Nowogard Plain were conducted in the vegetation seasons of years 2008-2010. Field studies were based on the cartogram method. The article shows the distribution of twelve selected invasive plant species: Echinocystis lobata, Heracleum sosnowskyi, Impatiens glandulifera, Impatiens parvifora, Padus serotina, Reynoutria japonica, Robinia pseudacacia, Solidago canadensis, Solidago gigantea, Quercus rubra, Rosa rugosa and Acer negundo in the study area.
Changes in the vegetation of "Wrzosiec" mire in 1991-2009 (Western Pomerania)
Authors: Popiela Agnieszka , Fudali Ewa , Łysko Andrzej
Published: October 2011

Changes in the vegetation of "Wrzosiec" mire in 1991-2009 (Western Pomerania)

Changes in the vegetation of a mire developing in forest lake hinterland in 1991-2009 are analysed and documented three times by phytosociological method. Within peat bog "islands", situated in the southern part of the lake, the most visible change is the development of a sparse pine-stand and thick shrubs of Salix species, Frangula alnus as well as increase in the participation of Molinia caerulea and some species of Scheuzerio-Caricetea class (Calamagrostis neglecta, Carex lasiocarpa and Sphagnum fallax). Vegetation of the lag zone shows fluctuating changes in the composition of plant communities depending on the water level that periodically changes. In the north-eastern part of the lake, a consistent slow process of terrestrialization was recognised.
Translocation of Nuphar lutea (L.) Sibth. & Sm. from the A2 road near Nowy Tomyśl (Poland) into alternative sites
Authors: Borysiak Anna , Borysiak Janina , Joniak Tomasz , Nagengast Barbara
Published: October 2011

Translocation of Nuphar lutea (L.) Sibth. & Sm. from the A2 road near Nowy Tomyśl (Poland) into alternative sites

A translocation of Nuphar lutea (L.) Sibth. & Sm. was made from its primary location in Prądówka, situated in the path of the construction site of the A2 motorway, into replacement biotopes. All rhizomes were taken out of the water and used to prepare cuttings. These were divided into three approximately homogeneous groups. Each group was introduced into different replacement water bodies with environmental conditions that resembled those of the biotope in the Prądówka site. Two of the water bodies were fish ponds. A third was a so called ‘ecological water body’ (settling pond, settling basin) that collected fall effluents delivered from the surface of motorway. The results of the examination of the physical-chemical features of water and bottom sediments from the Prądówka peat pit, two fish ponds and four settling basins are presented in the article. Biological and autecological features of the species Nuphar lutea, which are significant from the aspect of the growth of the seedlings within the alternative sites, have been discussed. A year after translocation it was observed that in the case of fish ponds, 83% and 75% of the introduced plants survived, while in the settling basin only 50%. A conservation project was undertaken by the investor in order to compensate for the negative effects of the A2 motorway within the area of the European Ecological Natura 2000 Network.
Relics of cultivation in the vascular flora of medieval West Slavic settlements and castles
Authors: Celka Zbigniew
Published: October 2011

Relics of cultivation in the vascular flora of medieval West Slavic settlements and castles

This monograph presents results of research on relics of cultivation and the present vascular flora of sites of medieval fortified settlements and castles in Central Europe. Special attention was paid to 109 West Slavic sites located in Poland, northeastern Germany, and the Czech Republic. For comparison, floristic data were collected also at 21 sites of medieval settlements and castles of Baltic tribes, East Slavs, and Teutonic knights. Results of this study confirm the hypothesis that remnants of medieval fortified settlements and castles are valuable habitat islands in the agricultural landscape, and are refuges of the plants that have accompanied West Slavs since the Middle Ages. At the 109 West Slavic archaeological sites, 876 vascular plant species were recorded. The present flora of the study sites is highly specific, clearly distinct from the surrounding natural environment, as shown by results of analyses of taxonomic composition, geographical-historical and synecological groups, indices of anthropogenic changes of the flora, and degrees of hemeroby (i.e. human influence) at the studied habitats. The sites of fortified settlements and castles are centres of concentration and sources of dispersal of alien species. Aliens account for nearly 21% of the vascular flora of the study sites. Among them, a major role is played by archaeophytes (101 species). Some archaeological sites are characterized by a high contribution of so-called species of old deciduous forests (98 species). Despite many features in common, floras of archaeological sites vary significantly, depending on their geographical location, size, typology, and chronology of their origin. Historical sites occupied in the past by West Slavs differ in the current vascular flora from the sites occupied in the Middle Ages by East Slavs or Baltic tribes and from Teutonic castles. West Slavic archaeological sites are primarily refuges for 22 relics of cultivation. Considering the time of cultivation, 3 groups of relics were distinguished: (i) relics of medieval cultivation (plants cultivated till the late 15th century); (ii) relics of cultivation in the modern era (introduced into cultivation in the 16th century or later), and (iii) relics of medieval-modern cultivation. These species play a special role in research on the history of the flora of Central Europe and thus also of the world flora. Thus the best-preserved sites of medieval West Slavic settlements and castles should be protected as our both cultural and natural heritage. This work is a key contribution to geobotanical research on transformation of the vegetation associated with human activity. Considering the problem of relics of cultivation it corresponds also to basic ethnobotanical issues.
Role of immunohistochemistry in the diagnosis of malignant small round cell tumors
Authors: Bashyal R , Pathak TB , Shrestha S , Pun CB , Banstola S , Neupane S , Lee MC
Published: October 2011

Background: Immunohistochemistry is a key tool for the analysis of localization of target molecules within tissues. It has a significant role in the identification of tumors lacking evidence of lineage differentiation on the basis of routine light microscopic morphology alone. Approximately 90% of tumors posing diagnostic difficulties by morphology could be accurately classified by exploiting immunohistochemistry. The aim of this study is to identify the true identity of malignant small round cell tumors by immunohistochemical analysis. Materials and Methods:This was a retrospective study done in Department of Histopathology of B.P.Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital from January 2010 to April 2011.A total of 40 cases small round cell tumors were selected for immunostaining. The immunohistochemistry technique used is the Polymer detection-EnvisionTM System, a two step staining technique based on Horse Radish Peroxidase labeled dextran polymer technology (DAKO Company). Results: Out of 40 cases of malignant small round cell tumors, there were 21 cases (52.5%) of Non- Hodgkin Lymphoma , 11 cases (27.5%) of Ewing’s Sarcoma/Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor, 1 case (2.5%) of Lymphoblastic Lymphoma , 1 case (2.5%) of Rhabdomyosarcoma, 2 cases (5%) of Low grade neuroendocrine tumor, 1 case (2.5%) of Neuroblastoma, 2 cases (5%) of Poorly differentiated Synovial Sarcoma (small cell variant), 1case (2.5%) of Malignant Melanoma (small cell variant). Conclusion: Immunohistochemistry is a valuable adjunct to routine hematoxylin and eosin staining for adequate and accurate categorization of malignant small round cell tumors. Keywords: Immunohistochemistry; Malignant Small Round Cell Tumor; Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma; Ewing’s Sarcoma; Rhabdomyosarcoma DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5398 JPN 2011; 1(2): 87-91
Utility of fine needle aspiration cytology in metastatic lymph nodes
Authors: Ghartimagar D , Ghosh A , Ranabhat S , Shrestha MK , Narasimhan R , Talwar OP
Published: October 2011

Background: Fine needle aspiration cytology is a reliable as well as an inexpensive diagnostic method. It is suitable for the developing countries like Nepal for the diagnosis of lymphadenopathy at any approachable site. Fine needle aspiration cytology not only confirms the presence of metastatic disease but also, in most cases, gives the clue regarding the origin of the primary tumor. The aim of the study was to find out the cytological diagnosis of metastatic lymph node lesions. Materials and Methods: A combined prospective and retrospective study was done of all metastatic lymph node lesions (including both superficial and deep nodes) reported in Department of Pathology, Manipal Teaching Hospital, Pokhara from January 2005 to Deceember 2010. Results: A total of 4180 cases of fine needle aspiration cytology were carried out of which 508 cases were of lymph node. Cytology results were unsatisfactory in 58 specimens (12%), “reactive” or “infective” in 347 specimens (68%), positive for metastasis in 93 specimens (18%) and hematolymphoid malignancies include 10 cases (2%). The most common site was anterior and posterior triangles cervical nodes. The most common malignancy was adenocarcinoma, seen in 62 cases (67%), followed by metastatic squamous cells carcinoma (14 cases, 15%). Conclusion: Fine needle aspiration cytology of lymphadenoathy is a useful tool in diagnosing metastatic lesions with good certainty. Keywords: Fine needle aspiration cytology; Lymphadenopathy; Metastasis DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5399 JPN 2011; 1(2): 92-95
Incidence of Helicobacter hepaticus and its relation to gallbladder carcinoma
Authors: Parajuli S , Koirala U
Published: October 2011

Background: Chronic cholecystitis due to cholelithiasis is one of the most common hepatobiliary surgical disorders. Bacteria are found in high concentration in bile and stone. Helicobacter hepaticus is a gram negative, micro-aerobic bacterium, curved to spiral in shape which shows positivity with urease, catalase and oxidase. Bacterial infection may be one of the causes for the pathogenesis of gallstone formation as most gallstones are colonized by a bacterial biofilm. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study done in the Department of Pathology, Kathmandu Medical College for a one year period, between June 2007 and July 2008. A total of 277 cases were included in the study. Results: Amongst the 277 cases, 270 cases (97.4%) were diagnosed as chronic cholecystitis and 7 cases (2.5%) were diagnosed as gallbladder carcinoma. All the cases diagnosed as gallbladder carcinoma was of adenocarcinoma except a single case of adenosquamous carcinoma. Fifty three out of the 277 cases (19.13%) showed positivity in Warthin Starry Silver stain. Out of the 7 cases diagnosed as gallbladder carcinoma, 5 cases were found to be positive Warthin Starry Silver stain. Conclusion: The role of Helicobacter hepaticus infection as a nidus for formation of gallstone that ultimately leads to malignancy is controversial and its dominant role in the pathogenesis of carcinoma is yet to be determined. Keywords: Gallbladder carcinoma; Helicobacter hepaticus; Warthin Starry Silver stain. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5406 JPN 2011; 1(2): 122-125