bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Characterization of Hydroxyapatite Containing Silver by Precipitation and Immersion Methods
Authors: Santos M.F. , Vercik L.C.O. , Vercik A. , Rigo E.C.S.
Published: November 2014

The use of bone substitutes for recovery of lost function is a constant search within the medical field. So biomaterials have received a very large attention from the scientific community, including the materials the basis of calcium phosphate. Hydroxyapatite (HA) has been studied as apart from representing the natural constitution of the mass of bones and teeth in 30 to 70 %, has properties of bioactivity and osteoconductivity, encouraging and assisting the growth of bone tissue. In contrast, bacterial infections can arise after implantation causing the loss of functionality in the short and medium term. Several alternatives are being tested, usually associated with the use of conventional antibiotics incorporated into biomaterials. An alternative to antibiotics would be use such metals that possess antibacterial properties. Silver (Ag) is known as a bactericidal metal and so gained a prominent place among the studies as an important ally in the control of post-surgical infections. This work aimed to synthesize, characterize and evaluate the antimicrobial effect of the addition of silver ions into hydroxyapatite. The hydroxyapatites containing silver were obtained by the precipitation method in aqueous solution containing AgNO3 and by immersing the powder after the precipitation process in aqueous solutions containing AgNO3. At this stage of the work, were analyzed and characterized the crystalline phases and the ionic groups present in HA, HA precipitates with Ag and immersed in a solution of Ag. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra showed that regardless of the method used, precipitation (room temperature or 90°C) or by immersion, the metallic Ag was present in the structure of HA. Additionally, it was observed that the peaks indicated in the XRD pattern for HA corresponding to the diffraction pattern of plugs JPCDS 09-0432 (Joint Committee on Powder Diffraction Standards). No peaks related to the phases being observed β-TCP and CaO, respectively, indicating that the conditions adopted for obtaining HA Ag, only HA phase is present and that methods, precipitation and immersion are efficient to occur doping of HA with Ag
Chemical and Heat Treatments for Inducing Bone-Bonding Ability of Ti-6Al-4V Pedicle Screw
Authors: Yamaguchi Seiji , Akeda Koji , Murata Koichiro , Takegami Norihiko , Goto Mikinobu , Sudo Akihiro , Matsushita Tomiharu , Kokubo Tadashi
Published: November 2014

Pedicle screw (PS) system using Ti-6Al-4V PSs became popular in spinal instrumentation system. However, they sometimes case loosening and back-out from bone because of their poor bone-bonding ability. In the present study, Ti-6Al-4V alloy was subjected to the acid-heat or calcium-heat treatments that are effective for inducing high capacities of apatite formation and bone bonding on pure Ti. When the alloy was subjected to the acid-heat treatment, a surface layer composed of rutile and anatase TiO2 enriched with Al and V was produced. Thus the treated alloy was neutrally charged and did not form apatite in a simulated body fluid (SBF) even after 3 day. In contrast, when the alloy was subjected to the Ca-heat treatment, a surface layer composed of calcium titanate, anatase and rutile free from Al and V was produced. The treated alloy formed apatite in SBF within 3 days. When the Ti-6Al-4V PSs subjected to the Ca-heat treatment was implanted into vertebra of beagle dogs, they showed higher bone-bonding ability as well as bone contact area than those without the treatment. This kind of bioactive Ti-6Al-4V PSs might be useful for spinal instrumentation since they could prevent loosening and back-out from bone.
Effect of Poling Treatment on Piezoelectric Constant of Pulsed Laser Deposited Hydroxyapatite Thin Films
Authors: Nishigaki Tsutomu , Hontsu Shigeki
Published: November 2014

It has been well known that bone has piezoelectric properties and these properties have been considered to be caused by the shift of the center of symmetry of the positive and negative electrical charge due to the strain of the collagen fibers included in the bone. Thus, it has long been considered that there were no piezoelectric effects in the hexagonal hydroxyapatite (HAp) which has center of symmetry of crystal. However, in recent years, the piezoelectric property of artificially synthesized HAp was reported. In the authors’ previous report, a new result which showed the piezoelectricity of the hydroxyapatite (HAp) films fabricated by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) method was reported. In this study, the effect of poling treatment on piezoelectric constant of pulsed laser deposited HAp films was investigated.
Evaluation of Dentin Tubule Sealing Rate Improved by Attaching Ultrathin Amorphous Calcium Phosphate Sheet
Authors: Kato Nobuhiro , Isai Arata , Yamamoto Ei , Nishikawa Hiroaki , Kusunoki Masanobu , Yoshikawa Kazushi , Yasuo Kenzo , Yamamoto Kazuyo , Hontsu Shigeki
Published: November 2014

Dentin hypersensitivity is induced by mechanical stimuli or heat stimuli applied via dentin tubules exposed by lost of dental enamel or gingival recession. Common treatments for dentin hypersensitivity are resin coating or laser irradiation. However, these treatments have some problems such as poor biocompatibility or insufficient durability. We have been developing a treatment that creates artificial tooth enamel by attaching flexible ultrathin calcium phosphate sheet having a crystal structure similar to that of tooth enamel to seal the dentin tubules. In this study, the quantitative evaluation of dentin tubule sealing rate improved by attaching ultrathin amorphous calcium phosphate (APC) sheet on human dentin is presented. The obtained sealing-rate by APC sheet application was 70.9 ± 4.8 %.
Ceramics in THR Bearings: Behavior under Off-Normal Conditions
Authors: Piconi Corrado , Porporati Alessandro Alan , Streicher Robert M.
Published: November 2014

The use of ceramics bearings in total hip joint replacement (THR) has increased markedly in the last ten years thanks to the optimum wear behaviour of ceramic-on-ceramic bearings and of the high biological safety of ceramic wear debris. As the number of ceramic THR bearings is increasing, also the number of implants that experience off-normal working conditions, e.g. edge loading, third bodies in the joint, soft tissues laxity, dislocation/subluxation of the joint, increases. Under all such conditions the surface of the bearing can be damaged to variable extent, leading eventually to a limitation of the expected performances of the implant.
Bio-Hybrid Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering: Nano-Hydroxyapatite/Chitosan Composites
Authors: Palazzo B. , Izzo D. , Scalera F. , Cancelli A.N. , Gervaso F.
Published: November 2014

Natural bone ECM is a hierarchical nanocomposite made of an inorganic phase deposited within an organic matrix. In order to mimic the bone highly organized hybrid structure and functionality, strategies that allow assembling ceramic and polymer phase can be applied. To this aim, we investigated aninsitugrowth method able to nucleate a nanoHydroxyapatite (nHAp) phase into and around the interconnected porous structure of chitosan sponges. By increasing the calcium and phosphate concentration in the meta-stable solution used for the nHAp nucleation, the inorganic phase raised proportionally, in the range 10%-30% wt. In order to be compared with nHAp loaded scaffolds, pure chitosan samples have been produced by cross-linking biopolymer with arginine. Moreover, nHAp loaded samples, containing the 20 % wt of inorganic phase have been prepared by simply mixing low crystalline nHAp powders with the chitosan gel. Thein situnucleation method highlighted evident advantages in terms of nanophase distribution and mechanical performances with respect to a merely mixing procedure.
Evaluation of Commercial Latex as a Positive Control for In Vitro Testing of Bioceramics
Authors: Lourenço Emanuelle Stellet , Côrtes Juliana , Costa Joyce , Linhares Adriana , Alves Gutemberg
Published: November 2014

Several tests for the biological evaluation of bioceramic materials and medical devices are provided in specific international standards, where in vitro tests have a major role. Tests involving exposure of cells in culture require the use of validated positive controls, which, in the same preparation and treatment conditions, present a substantial and well-known cytotoxicity. The present work aimed to test and validate 3 different sources of low cost, commercially available latex, as positive controls in cytotoxicity tests for bioceramic materials performed by indirect exposure. The tested origins for latex samples were: surgical gloves without powder, 100% pure amber latex hospital-grade tourniquets and 60 % latex White tubing. MC3T3-E1 murine pre-osteoblasts in culture were exposed to conditioned media (extracts) of each material tested, along with sintered stoichiometric hydroxyapatite bioceramics, and polystyrene beads as negative control. Cell viability was determined by XTT and Crystal Violet Exclusion tests. Concentration curves of the extracts were performed to obtain the DC50. Only the 100% pure amber latex tubing was proven to be cytotoxic, with cell survival less than 5%. This material did not affected neighboring groups at the same experimental system. Moreover, latex samples showed great repeatability in different tests against latex and biomaterials, with consistent toxicity under 20% cell survival as shown in 3 different cell viability parameters. We conclude that fragments of latex ambar tubing are suited as effective positive controls in tests of medical bioceramic materials.
A Histological and Radiological Study of Bone Formation around Porous Resorbable β-Tricalcium Phosphate Used as Bone Defect Filling
Authors: Strnadová M. , Kučera T. , Cevallos Lecaro M.D. , Strnad J. , Strnad Z. , Nežiková A.
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this study was to analyze the histological, histochemical and radiological findings gained from pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo tests and from implantation of ß-tricalcium phosphate PORESORB®-TCP (P). (P) is a bioactive, resorbable, inorganic, crystalline, non-metallic material with osseoconductive properties intended for replacement of bone tissue. The (P) granules (size 1-2mm) were implanted into the tibia of dogs for 3 and 6 months. The formation of 53% and 72% of new bone was observed after 3 and 6 months respectively.Material (P) sized 0.3-0.6 mm was used to fill in the periodontal defect and also as a carrier of growth proteins. During the study period, no undesired response to the material used was observed. The values of the plaque index showed standard hygienic conditions – the values of PlI were 0.72, 0.65 and 0.62 before treatment and 6 and 12 months after treatment, respectively.A total of 72 two-stage sinus lifts were performed in 54 patients. The autologous bone was harvested from the mandibular ramus and mixed with the (P) material sized 1-2 mm. The materials were used in a proportion ranging between 1: 1 and 1: 3. The residual allograft area was 16.21 ± 8.78 %. The connective tissue was 44.16 ± 5.85 %.This has been a retrospective review of the healing of bone defects, due to benign tumours or tumour-like lesions, using (P) material sized 1.3 mm, 0.7 mm (0.6-2 mm) as bone graft substitutes. 87 patients with bone defects (average volume 15 cm3; interval 0.4 – 144 cm3) were included. Defects with a volume up to 4 cm3 had the same successful rate of healing both for autologous bone grafts and (P). (P) sized 1.3 mm; 0.7 mm (0.6-2 mm) was successfully used in defects with volume up to 4 cm3. However, it is evident that the ratio of the size of the defect and the size of the applied granule must be kept near to 10/1 for successful treatment.
Poly (L-Lactic Acid) and Hydroxyapatite Scaffold for Bone Regeneration: In Vivo Study
Authors: Rodriguez Geraldine N.P. , Rodrigues Leonardo R. , Basso Rafael C.F. , Kharmandayan Paulo , Zavaglia Cecília A.C. , D'Ávila Marcos A.
Published: November 2014

In bone tissue engineering, synthetic scaffolds are commonly used and this should present the following requirements; (i) recapitulate the native three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical fibrous structure, (ii) possess biomimetic surface properties and (iii) demonstrate mechanical integrity. However, some methods of producing scaffolds do not achieve these requirements. The present study aims the application of a composite of poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and Hydroxyapatite (HA) produced by rotary jet spinning, which can be used to obtain scaffolds that meet the above requirements with affordable costs (regarding materials and production). The morphology and thermal properties of the scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). For the in vivo tests, 20 Wistar rats, distributed into two groups, in which critical defects were performed in cranial calotte were used. Then scaffolds of PLLA/HA were implanted and compared with the control group that didn’t receive the implant. The results have shown that in the cases where only the defects in cranial caps were performed, bone healing did not occur. In cases where the scaffolds of PLLA/HA were used, rich neovascularization was noted, accompanied by foreign body type reaction and presence of reactive bone around the implants. The evaluation of PLLA/HA scaffolds used in the rat calvarial defect model, according to the criteria surveyed was favorable, showed the implants insurance and that they are suitable materials to be used as substitutes of calvarial bone tissue in these animals.
Biphasic Calcium Phosphate: Preferential Ionic Substitutions and Crystallographic Relationships at Grain Boundaries
Authors: Miramond T. , Rouillon T. , Daculsi G.
Published: November 2014

Solid-state transformation of CDA at high temperature has been investigated using TEM microscopy and diffraction from sintered biphasic calcium phosphate (hydroxyapatite-HA, and beta-tricalcium phosphate-TCP). Microcrystals, between 200nm and 800nm approximately, separated by grain boundaries were found to be either HA-HA or TCP-TCP, but not HA-TCP, suggesting that heteroepitaxial growth is very unlikely between these two orthophosphates. TEM-correlated EDX elemental analysis also demonstrated a higher ionic substitution (Na, Mg) of TCP phase.
The Influence of Thickness of Layers in the Multilayer Coating of the PN + AlCrTiNmultinano Hybrid Layer on Tribological Properties
Authors: Kacprzyńska-Gołacka Joanna , Rydzewska Karolina , Mazurkiewicz Adam , Kusiński Jan , Smolik Jerzy , Garbacz Halina , Wiecinski Piotr
Published: November 2014

One of the most perspective directions of the development of surface engineering is related to hybrid technologies. The best-known and widely used hybrid surface treatment technology is a combination of a gas or plasma nitriding process with the process of the deposition of hard antiwear coatings by means of PVD methods. The paper presents the influence of the thickness of layers in the multilayer coating on tribological properties of hybrid layers – PN + AlCrTiNmultinano obtained on the EN X32CrMoV3.3 hot working steel. The research methods concentrated on the analysis of mechanical properties, surface topography and microstructure, and tribological properties. The studies on mechanical properties included tests on hardness using the nanoindentation method and tests on adhesion using the scratchtest. The analysis of surface topography and microstructure was examined by scanning electron microscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy. The tribological properties were examined using the ball-on-disc method. The coating was tested with alumina balls as counterparts at room temperature. The authors indicate that the PN + AlCrTiNmultinano hybrid layers are characterized by excellent mechanical properties and tribological resistance. In this paper, the authors confirmed that the thickness of layers in a multilayer coating is important in shaping the mechanical and tribological properties of the PN + AlCrTiNmultinano hybrid layer.
The Use of Thermography in Verification Tests of a Prototype Calorimeter Chamber
Authors: Samborski Tomasz , Zbrowski Andrzej
Published: November 2014

The article discusses the use of thermography in verification tests of a prototype calorimeter chamber constituting a part of a test stand for actuators used in smoke and ventilation systems. Based on the prototype control methodology developed at the ITeE – PIB, the authors identified areas posing a potential threat to the proper functioning of the system. The measurements of the temperature distribution on the outer surface of the chamber in the identified areas (trouble spots) are shown. The measurements were taken in thermal conditions related to tests conducted in compliance with the procedures of normative environmental investigations. The article also discusses the scope of activities that need to be taken in order to eliminate the adverse effects of heat transfer (thermal bridges, welds, etc.). Based on the thermographic tests, the authors proposed some guidelines to be included in the knowledge base used in the design of similar systems.
Influence of the Gap between Measuring Head and Tested Object on the Results of an Eddy Current Test Method
Authors: Zbrowski Andrzej , Jóźwik Wojciech
Published: November 2014

The article presents the influence of the distance between a measuring head and a tested object on the results of eddy current defectoscopy test. The tests were conducted on the two inner rings of a tapered roller bearing where the test defects were performed. A one-millimetre hole corresponded to the surface defect. Internal blind holes in the shape of a rectangle corresponded to a subsurface defect. The research was performed with the use of a SSEC III PC defectoscope connected to a mobile PC. The measuring device is part of the system for the automatic quality control of bearing rings. The test was conducted for a slit having following dimensions: 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 mm. The obtained characteristics are the composition of the pulse caused by the detected defect and the sine wave caused by the axial runout of the tested bearing ring. The correlation between the slit size and the value of the signal of the defect and the sine wave caused by axial runout of the tested ring was observed. The concept of “a coefficient of defect detection” was introduced. The described coefficient is a quotient of the value of the defect signal and the peak-to-peak value of the sine wave caused by axial runout of the tested bearing ring. The increase in the dimensions of the slit from 0.1 to 0.5 mm causes a 35 - 50% decrease in the coefficient of defect detection, depending on the test defect. A handle was designed to ensure a constant pressure of measuring head on the tested surface was proposed.
Between the Spirit and the Word: Reading the Gendered African Pentecostal Bible
Authors: Dube Musa
Published: November 2014

This article reviews the gendered Pentecostal Bible as documented by various researchers. It assesses how the prophetic-spirit framework encounters and functions within the framework of the inerrant but patriarchal written word. The Spirit framework is an oral canon that opens spaces of gender empowerment. Yet Pentecostal scholars problematise the supposedly liberating Spirit, highlighting that it sometimes denies the materiality of human existence and inhabits the constraining parameters of patriarchal church structures. The article suggests that in addition to the Spirit-Word framework, new Pentecostal theological categories, such as healing and deliverance and the prosperity gospel need to be investigated for the new spaces they open for gender justice. 'The authority of the Bible as the word of God, and the experience of the Holy Spirit form two of the most important sources of Pentecostal theology' (Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu 2004:390).
Messianic and Christological interpretation in Išô`Dâdh of Merw’s Commentary on Ezekiel
Authors: Van Rooy Herculaas F.
Published: November 2014

In agreement with his East Syriac heritage, Išô`dâdh’s commentary on Ezekiel does not contain any direct messianic interpretations. There are, however, interpretations that link the text to Christ or are of importance for Išô`dâdh’s Christology. As far as Christology is concerned, his interpretation of Ezekiel 1:27–28 is important, where he rejects interpretations related to the two natures of Christ. The interpretation of Theodoret of Cyrus is especially relevant in this regard, but also others, such as Gregory. In addition to this, in some instances Išô`dâdh sees a double meaning in a text or a typological reference. These texts receive attention in this paper, with special attention to Išô`dâdh’s exegesis of Ezekiel 1 and 47. In his interpretation of Ezekiel 1, he looks in the first place at the time of the prophet, for example in referring to different interpretations of the living creatures and their faces, such as the four regions of the world, the four seasons, the four elements or kings of Babylonia, of the Medes, the Persians and the Greeks. It can, however, also refer to Christ, with the four creatures representing the Gospels. The river of Ezekiel 47 is also linked to the dispensation of the New Testament. These texts are studied in detail in this paper, especially in comparison to the interpretation of Theodoret.
Emotion and the affective turn: Towards an integration of cognition and affect in real life experience
Authors: Du Toit Cornel W.
Published: November 2014

Emotion is caused by many factors, some of which are evolutionary, neurological, chemical, environmental, societal, personal and religious. Mostly, however, we are oblivious of the causal factors, many of which may function on a biological level or subconsciously, although the emotional effect is experienced physically and consciously. Emotions change as the trigger mechanisms in the cultural context change. This usually happens unnoticed over long periods. Internet databases have now made it possible to study the use of emotive words; this point is discussed. Of particular interest is the interaction between emotion and reason. Models that reduce emotion to the physical level are scrutinised critically. Reason is not emotionless and emotion is not always irrational. The close interrelationship of emotion and reason often makes it difficult to distinguish accurately between the two. The so-called affective turn takes cognisance of cultural, social, religious and other environmental factors; this broader approach clarifies the importance of affect’s role in rationality. One way of viewing emotion and affect is to look at the accompanying language; here the role of metaphor and narrative is pertinent. The traditional elevation of reason above emotion is examined critically as part of the affective turn that broadens the meaning and scope of emotions. I focus on the role of emotion in religion and factors that influence it, and explore the accent of affect in new spiritualities.
De opstanding van Jezus volgens Jozef Ratzinger/Benedictus XVI
Authors: Weren Wim J.C.
Published: November 2014

The resurrection of Jesus according to Jozef Ratzinger/Benedictus XVI. As a follow-up to my earlier article in HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies (‘The Pope’s Jesus book and the Christologies of the gospels’ [2011]), this contribution concerning the Jesus trilogy by Jozef Ratzinger will discuss the idea he presents of Jesus’ resurrection and how his view should be assessed from the perspective of the current state of affairs in biblical scholarship. In addition, this article articulates a number of proposals that can take the discussion a step further. In that context, the following questions are dealt with: What is meant when we speak about the body of the risen Jesus? Are there – except for terms like ‘to raise from the dead’ or ‘to rise up’ – other formulas used in the New Testament to describe the fundamental reversal after Jesus’ death? Can Ratzinger’s biased focus upon the concept of ‘resurrection’ be expanded on the basis of other Old Testament models of thought or faith paradigms that can help us to understand that Jesus, through the agency of God, has come to share in a life that is no longer limited by death? What factors played a role in the origin of the belief in Jesus’ resurrection? This article shows that Ratzinger too strongly emphasises continuity between the historical Jesus and a number of New Testament Christologies and the way in which they were crystallised in later ecclesiastical dogmatic formulations.
‘Look, the place where they put him’ (Mk 16:6): The space of Jesus’ tomb in early Christian memory
Authors: Smith Daniel A.
Published: November 2014

The tomb of Jesus posed two main problems for early Christians: firstly, the earliest memory of the tomb seems to recall it as the site of the dishonourable burial of a man executed as an enemy of the Roman imperial system; and secondly, the narrative of the empty tomb stood for several reasons in an ambiguous relationship to the announcement of the resurrection. Yet within three centuries, that ‘place’ had been rehabilitated both architecturally and ritually (memorialised together with the site of the crucifixion) as ‘sacred space’ in the Church of the Resurrection (the typical Eastern designation for the Church of the Holy Sepulchre). For discussion, see Morris 2005:33–34). By about 380 CE, Cyril of Jerusalem could thus pronounce this place ‘the very centre of the world’ (Cat. 13.28). The present article argues that ‘the place where they put him’ was not originally venerated as ‘sacred space’, but rather was remembered as a place of shame; and also describes several different narrative and theological strategies, introduced in the canonical gospels and interpreted by early Christian readers, that changed how the tomb of Jesus was remembered and that allowed for it eventually to be regarded as ‘sacred space’.
Van weerloos tot weerbaar: Die Afrikaanse vrouedigter binne patriargale konteks
Authors: Spies Lina
Published: November 2014

Vulnerability to resilience: The Afrikaans woman poet in patriarchal context. On Elisabeth Eybers’s poetry and my own. This article gives an account of the nature and content of my religious poems that form a large part of my poetry. Looking back upon my substantial oeuvre, I realise that it was as a woman that I gave expression to the human condition and to my experience of religion. As a woman poet I identified with the first acknowledged Afrikaans woman poet, Elisabeth Eybers. Although a specific female tradition was never identified in the Afrikaans literary criticism, the Afrikaans woman poet writes from within a patriarchal society of which the Bible and Christian doctrine form the basis. This corresponds with the situation of the English and American woman poet. Feministic American literary critics have reflected in depth on the woman poet’s dilemma, and have shown that the woman poet’s struggle to find her own identity is not against the strong male or female poets who preceded her, but against the inhibiting voices that live within herself. At deepest it amounts to a conflict between fulfilling her traditional female role as prescribed to her by the patriarchy, and fulfilling her vocation as poet – a theme in both Eybers’s and my work. Because of the different courses of our lives, the female identities expressed respectively in our work differ: Eybers’s identity is that of woman and mother, and later unattached immigrant, while mine is that of an unmarried career woman. In this article I concentrate on the way in which we give expression to our female identities in our poetry as influenced by the traditional Christian belief system in which we were brought up. I give a comprehensive account of the influence of characteristic scriptural language on Eybers’s and my own use of words, and I discuss our poems on biblical figures in detail.
The HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies 70 year anniversary volume – dedicated to Johan Buitendag
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: November 2014

No abstract.
Space, place and ecology: Doing ecofeminist urban theology in Gauteng
Authors: Van Schalkwyk Annalet
Published: November 2014

The basic motivation for this article is to explore the critical, yet hopeful vision which urban theologians – and specifically ecofeminist urban theologians – have for justice, reconciliation and abundance of life in urban Gauteng. This requires that urban spatiality, with its conflicting sides in a rampantly capitalist Gauteng, needs to be understood. It also requires an understanding of how urbanity and ecology may – yet so often do not – overlap. According to ecofeminist theologian Anne Primavesi, space and place needs to be understood in relation to the earth as the body of God – a web of interrelated and interconnected subjects and living beings which constitute the earth with its various ecosystems. This belies the established understanding that space and place is created mostly through the anthropocentric activity and mastery of people. Such an ecological understanding of space, place and urbanity leads to my exploration of a missiology of space as the manifestation of the presence of God in the spaces of nature and human civilisation. I conclude by proposing the practice of urban mission as making the liturgical and sacramental links between ecology, space, and the reclamation of urban space as sacred by Christian and other agents of urban activism.
Thoracic intramedullary schwannoma: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Nayak Raghavendra , Chaudhuri Anupkumar , Chattopadhyay Aniruddha , Ghosh S
Published: November 2014

Intramedullary schwannomas are rare spinal cord tumors. Most of these tumors have been reported as a single lesion in the spinal cord. Up until today approximately 50 cases of intramedullary shwannomas not related to neurofibromatosis have been described. We describe a rare case of thoracic intramedullary tumour in a 28 year old male patient who presented with progressive weakness of both the lower limbs and decreased sensation below D2 dermatomal level. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intramedullary lesion from D1 toD7. D1 to D7 laminoplasty and near total excision of the mass done.Total removal was difficult because of the infiltrative nature of the tumour. Histopathological report confirmed the diagnosis of the schwannoma. Possible site of origin and pathogenesis of intramedullary tumour have been discussed.
Spontaneous thrombosis of a vein of galen malformation
Authors: Mohanty Chandan , Srinivas Dwarakanath , Sampath Somanna
Published: November 2014

Vein of Galen malformation (VOGM) is a rare congenital vascular anomaly, comprising about 1% of all intracranial vascular anomalies, predominantly affecting the children less than 1 year of age. A 6-month-old infant presented with complaints of increasing head size of 3 months duration and multiple episodes of vomiting associated with refusal to feed since 7 days. He was a known case of VOGM who had initially refused treatment. Investigations revealed a spontaneously thrombosed VOGM with obstructive hydrocephalous. Child improved uneventfully with ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Spontaneous thrombosis of a VOGM is a rare occurrence and carries a better prognosis. The relevant literature is discussed with emphasis on etiopathogenesis, mechanism, and management of spontaneous thrombosis of the malformation.
Switching from Nitrate Therapy to Ranolazine in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease Receiving Phosphodiesterase Type-5 Inhibitors for Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Udeoji Dioma U. , Schwarz Ernst R.
Published: November 2014

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) frequently coexist. The introduction of phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors has revolutionized medical management of organic ED; however, in patients with angina pectoris, a common symptom of CAD, coadministration of PDE-5 inhibitors and nitrates has been implicated in CAD-related deaths following sexual activity. The mechanism of action of PDE-5 inhibitors results in a potential cumulative drop in blood pressure (BP); thus, these agents are contraindicated in patients receiving nitrates. Beta-blockers and calcium channel antagonists are considered the mainstays of antianginal therapy, but may not be tolerated by all patients. Ranolazine is an antianginal agent that produces minimal reductions in heart rate and BP. Here we report three cases of men with CAD, chronic angina, and concomitant ED. We describe our treatment approach in these patients, using ranolazine as a potential substitute to nitrate therapy.
Global collaboration and team-building through 3D virtual environments
Authors: Umoren Rachel , Stadler Dora J. , Gasior Stephen L. , Al-Sheikhly Deema , Truman Barbara , Lowe Carolyn
Published: November 2014

Certain aspects of healthcare education are difficult to teach in real world environments or in isolated classroom settings. These include, but are not limited to, collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork skills that are necessary for improved team performance and patient care outcomes. Virtual simulation is a growing field for training and continuous professional development activities and is conducive to local and international clinical training and collaborative projects.

The authors examine theories of collaboration applied to virtual worlds, along with case studies, to demonstrate virtual simulation's applicability to a variety of teaching environments.

In addition, virtual environments have applications to interprofessional healthcare training and team formation. International partnerships for education can benefit from using virtual environments to foster team-building activities without geographic boundaries.

Virtual environments have been instrumental in the growth and sustainability of international networks of educators and, when feasible, should be utilized as a tool for the development of international partnerships.
Pyrene Fluorescence in Nanoaggregates Irradiated by IR Photons
Authors: Jungclas Hartmut , Komarov Viacheslav V. , Popova Anna M. , Schmidt Lothar
Published: November 2014

Pyrene fluorescence of a molecular donor-acceptor nanoaggregate induced by infrared (IR) radiation with λ =16 - 18 μm considered.We assume that this nanoaggregate consists of two molecules, exchanging energy by dipole-dipole interaction. The energy acceptor is an aromatic molecule. The other molecule, the energy donor, is assumed to contain a substructure CnH2n which serves as antenna for IR radiation. The antenna can accumulate collective vibrational excitations and transmit them to the acceptor molecule. Acceptor fluorescence is possible if the amount of transmitted energy is equal to the energy of its excited state in the visible part of the absorption spectrum. We analyse the fluorescence of a nanoaggregate consisting of a donor with a C5H10 substructure and pyrene molecules or pyrene dimers as acceptors. A method is proposed for determination of the ‘critical micelle concentration’ (CMC), i. e. concentration of a dissolved polymer, for which the polymer molecules are beginning to aggregate.
Mycoflora of the Pieniny National Park. II
Authors: Gumińska Barbara
Published: November 2014

200 species of higher fungi have been collected out of which 9 are new in Poland while 14 others are very rarely encountered.
Description of four new species of Laboulbenia (Ascomycetes), parasites of beetles
Authors: Balzauc J.
Published: November 2014

Diagnoses and descriptions of: Laboulbenia basilewskyi, parasitic on Lymnastic (Coleoptera, Caraboidea, Bembidiidae) from Kivu: L. rossii on Reichodes (Col., Caraboidea, Scaritidae) from Spain and Jugoslavia: L. viracocha on Ctenodactyla (Col., Caraboidea, Ctenodactylidae) from Peru and L. jarrigei on Lispinus (Col., Staphylinidae) from the Reunion Island.
A correlation between the occurrence of the Usnea lichens in the neighbourhood of Kraków and sulphur dioxide pollution
Authors: Kiszka Józef
Published: November 2014

In the neighbourhood of Kraków Usnea comosa, U. dasypoga, U. hirta occur. These species presently grow in the south-east part of the Niepołomice Forest only, which is situnled east of Kraków. In the years 1959-1960 the lichens appeared in the whole of the Forest. The author has confirmed that the Usnea species have died out in the western and northern parts of the Niepołomice Forest. The main reason for this is the increasing air pollution in Kraków - caused by the Lenin Metallurgical Works.
Occurrence of soil fungi in a potato plantation
Authors: Weber Zbigniew
Published: November 2014

The forecrops applied in potato cultivation affected the occurrence of Rhizoctonia solani Kühn and other soil fungi. The most common species found appeared to be: Penicillium nigricans Thom, P. jenseni Zaleski, P. vinaceum Gilman et Abbott. and P. raciborskii Zaleski.
Effects of Gamma Radiation on Mature Larvae of Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) and their F1 Progeny
Authors: S. Shahzad Ali  , Huma Rizwana  , S. Sohail Ahmad  , Imran Hassan  , S. Shahbaz Ali
Published: November 2014

The mature larvae of Pectonophora gossypiella (Saunders) obtained from the laboratory culture maintained on casein wheat germ diet were irradiated at 35, 45, 55 and 65 Gy doses at a dose rate of 30.8 Gy/min. in a Cs-137 gamma irradiator. The pupation was delayed as the radiation dose increased. Furthermore, larval survival to pupal and adult stages were also susceptible to gamma radiation doses were increased. Females were more susceptible to gamma radiation than males. The effect of gamma radiation on reproduction in P1 moths following irridation of mature larvae was dose dependent. As the dose of mature larvae increased, average egg production, hatch percentage and adult longevity reduced. Egg production, was reduced more drastically in the crosses Untreated Male x Treated Female (UTM x TF) and Treated male x Treated Female (TM X TF) than the crosses Treated Male x Untreated Female (TM x UTF). Complete sterility was recorded when treated males were paired with treated females at 45 Gy and higher doses of gamma radiation. The results on the egg production, hatch percentage and adult longevity of F1progeny of male parents following irridation of mature larvae showed that egg production was reduced significantly in crosses UTM x F­1 Female at 35 Gy and complete sterility was recorded at higher doses. In crosses F1 Male x F1Female, complete sterility was recorded at all the test doses of gamma radiation. The radiation doses higher than 35 Gy were more lethal either in F1 Male x F1 Female. The adult longevity was unreliable in all the crosses. However, moths were short-lived in both F1 Male x F1 Female and UTM x F1 Female progeny of treated pink bollworm females crossed with untreated males following irradiation of mature larvae indicated similar results as recorded in the case of male treated parents. However, complete sterility was recorded in F1 Male x F1 Female and UTM x F1 Female crosses and a few eggs were laid in F1 Male x F1 Female crosses at 35 Gy dose with 14.76 percent egg hatch.
La chaleur est mémoire : tradition est innovation1
Authors: Mroz Daniel
Published: November 2014

Cet article formule l’hypothèse que certaines pratiques théâtrales issues de la tradition peuvent offrir un contexte favorable à l’innovation et au développement de nouvelles formes scéniques. Dans cette perspective, son auteur met en regard deux traditions culturelles, la Wielka Reforma ou la Grande Réforme, qui a largement influence les arts scéniques en Europe au XXe siècle et en particulier l’art de la mise en scène, et les arts martiaux chinois. Cet examen aide à mieux saisir les conditions où l’innovation artistique résulte d’une fréquentation de la tradition et de l’assimilation de ses principes régulateurs.
L’alimentation des enfants du point de vue de leurs parents
Authors: Mathiot Louis
Published: November 2014

Cette contribution propose d’apporter un éclairage sur les façons dont les parents d’enfants âgés de 4 à 12 ans effectuent des choix relatifs à l’alimentation de ces derniers dans un contexte marqué par la montée des incertitudes et des injonctions contradictoires autour de l’acte de manger. À partir d’une enquête ethnographique menée dans vingt familles, il s’agit de comparer les familles appartenant aux catégories sociales favorisées avec celles des milieux plus modestes, en observant les arbitrages auxquels les unes et les autres procèdent dans la gestion de la pluralité des risques alimentaires.
Se nourrir en foyer d’éducation : entre nécessité éducative et plaisirs commensaux
Authors: Ossipow Laurence
Published: November 2014

Les repas que nous avons observés et suivis en foyer ouvert d’éducation pour mineurs ne peuvent s’assimiler ni à un repas familial ni à un repas en cantine. Ils ont bien sûr une fonction nutritive, mais surtout socialisatrice et centralisatrice puisqu’ils permettent de rassembler au moins une fois par jour l’ensemble des adolescents fréquentant le foyer. À cette dimension se rajoutent les plaisirs commensaux (surtout à l’occasion de fêtes) et la nécessité éducative qui se concentre sur l’élaboration de menus et leur confection, sur les manières de table et sur la familiarisation à l’alimentation dite saine. Cet apprentissage, aussi important soit-il pour l’autonomie matérielle ou la future indépendance des personnes placées, est néanmoins considéré comme moins fondamental que ce qui permet de développer l’autonomie de la volonté, la communication et l’expression des émotions.
Liens commerciaux entres les Petites Antilles et l’Amérique du Nord sous l’Ancien régime
Authors: Lafleur Gérard
Published: November 2014

La proximité géographique de l’Amérique du Nord, les possibilités offertes par les cultures du Nord-est du territoire, le besoin des productions coloniales, en faisaient naturellement un partenaire commercial naturel pour les Antilles à partir du moment où les colonies américaines s’étaient organisées et qu’une marine marchande locale pouvaient s’appuyer sur un arrière-pays agricole.

Ce commerce était interdit par les deux puissances principales, qui tentaient de faire appliquer l'Exclusif en opposition avec leurs sujets américains (français et britanniques) qui voulaient faire des affaires les plus fructueuses possibles. Les puissances centrales, lointaines, n’avaient pas les moyens de l'interdire complètement. Les productions étaient complémentaires ; morue et boeuf salés, poissons séchés, farine, bois de construction (lumber), légumes secs d’une part, sucre, rhum, mélasses d’abord puis coton, cacao ensuite et café à partir des années 1730 d’autre part.

Le commerce entre les colonies britanniques des Antilles et de l'Amérique du nord était naturellement autorisé mais il devint suspect à partir de 1770 au moment où la tension s'accentua entre la Grande-Bretagne et ses colonies nord américaines.

Deux îles concentraient le commerce interlope dans la zone, Saint-Eustache (Statius) île néerlandaise située au centre des Petites Antilles et plus tardivement, Saint-Barthélemy devenue suédoise, pour les Petites Antilles et Saint-Thomas et Sainte-Croix, îles danoises dans les îles Vierges, proche des Grandes Antilles.

Malgré les oppositions des métropoles, notamment la Grande-Bretagne et la France, le commerce avec l'Amérique du Nord se développa clandestinement en utilisant toutes les ressources de l'interlope et les autorités locales mirent beaucoup de mauvaise volonté à exercer la répression préconisée par les métropoles.

Après la Guerre de Sept Ans et l’occupation des territoires français par les Anglais, puis surtout après la Guerre d’Amérique et la naissance des Etats-Unis d’Amérique, alliés de la France, la situation changea et le commerce put se développer sans entraves avec les Nord-américains par les ports d’entrepôts mais aussi grâce à des pratiques clandestines favorisées par les règlements.

La Révolution stoppa cette coopération car l’Etat américain choisit le camp Anglais sous la pression de l’administration britannique à l’inverse des habitants des ports qui adhérèrent aux idées de la Révolution et qui restaient fidèles à leurs anciennes amitiés.

Après 1794, avec la politique agressive de Victor Hugues, les alliances se renversèrent et les Américains devinrent, provisoirement, les ennemis à combattre mais le commerce avec l’Amérique du nord reprit de plus belle au XIXe siècle.
Mythes et réalités de la Martinique catholique à la fin de la période coloniale
Authors: Séverin Lucien
Published: November 2014

A travers l’étude des ouvrages parus à l’occasion du tricentenaire de la célébration de l’appartenance de la Martinique à la France en 1935, cet article a pour but de présenter quelques éléments montrant la constitution d’un récit historique de la Martinique catholique en parallèle de l’inventaire sociopolitique. Entre évènements et personnages fondateurs, il s’agit de voir l’interprétation qui en est faite par les principaux auteurs de l’historiographie religieuse martiniquaise de l’époque. Cela permet de mettre ainsi en évidence quelques aspects de la mentalité religieuse martiniquaise et antillaise, notamment ceux concernant l’interprétation des évènements au travers du filtre religieux, souvent décriés par les autorités religieuses comme étant des relents de paganisme.
The reconstruction of the subject of law and subjectivity in the context of psychosocial care
Authors: Santos Elitiele Ortiz dos , Willrich Janaína Quinzen , Kantorski Luciane Prado , Leal Argiles Carmen Terezinha , Coimbra Valéria Crsitina Chistello , Antunes Beatriz
Published: November 2014

Objetivo: Conhecer as contribuições do Serviço Residencial Terapêutico no processo da reconstrução de direito e subjetividade dos sujeitos, ex- internos do Hospital Psiquiátrico. Métodos: O estudo teve caráter descritivo e exploratório com abordagem metodológica qualitativa. Em 2010 foram realizadas entrevistas semi- estruturadas com 16 moradores dos Serviços Residenciais Terapêuticos do município de Caxias do Sul/RS. Resultados: Os moradores do residencial terapêutico são sujeitos, e têm a oportunidade de produzir sua subjetividade nos diferentes contatos proporcionados pela vivência no residencial e na sociedade. Os recursos humanos e materiais disponíveis no local proporcionam aos moradores o exercício e o gozo da cidadania, além de garantir o direito e a proteção destinada a pessoas em sofrimento psíquico. Conclusão: A atenção psicossocial reconstrói o sujeito que foi institucionalizado e o residencial terapêutico aparece como uma das principais ferramentas desse processo.
Care ethics in hospitalized child: a perspective for nursing
Authors: Rêgo Deusdará Rodrigues Benedita Maria , Pacheco Sandra Teixeira de Araújo , Ciuffo Lia Leão , Gomes Ana Paula Rocha
Published: November 2014

Objetivo: Apreender quais são os aspectos éticos que norteiam o cuidado prestado pelo enfermeiro à criança hospitalizada. Método: Estudo qualitativo com enfoque na fenomenologia sociológica de Alfred Schutz. Foram entrevistados 10 enfermeiros lotados nas unidades de internação de um hospital municipal, localizado na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, em 2011. A entrevista fenomenológica pautou-se na questão: Quais os aspectos éticos que norteiam o seu cuidado a criança hospitalizada?   Resultados: A análise das falas possibilitou a apreensão de duas categorias discutidas à luz da fenomenologia sociológica que são: Respeito à privacidade da criança e Respeito à família da criança hospitalizada. Conclusões: O estudo permitiu o entendimento de que as ações do enfermeiro no que diz respeito à ética no cuidado à criança hospitalizada perpassam pelo reconhecimento da família como elemento indispensável na assistência de enfermagem. Aponta a necessidade de repensar sobre as práticas em saúde, como um modo ético de cuidar. Descritores: Ética, Saúde da criança, Cuidados de enfermagem.