bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Book Reviews
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: November 2012

Claus Westermann (Translated by S S Schatzmann) The Gospel of John. In the light of the Old Testament. Hendrickson Publishers 1998: Peabody, Massachusetts. Price unknown, 106 pp.   Jerry Connery-Hoggatt, Speaking of God. Reading and Preaching the Word of God. Hendrickson Publishers: Peabody, Massachusetts 1995. X en 277 pp. Prys onbekend.   A König, Vernuwe ofverdwyn, Lux Verbi 1998, 116 pp. Prys R49-00.   John C H Laughlin, Archaeology and the Bible, Routledge, London & New York, 2000.   K Koch, & M Rosel, (eds), Polyglottensynopse zum Buch Daniel, Neukirchener Verlag, Neukirchen 2000,322 pp.   I Nell, Ons ware ID is Jesus. 'n Bybelstudie vir groepe en individue oor die woordprente in Jesus se "Ek is "-uitsprake. Wellington: Lux Verbi BM 2000, 64 pp. Prys: onbekend.   J Cilliers, Die genade van gehoorsaamheid. Hoe evangelies is die etiese preke wat ons in Suid-Afrika hoor? Wellington: Lux VerbLBM 2000, 177 pp. Prys: onbekend.   Yusufu Turaki, Christianity and African Gods. A method in theology. Potchefstroom: IRS 1999.348 pp. Prys: R60-00   Ronald J Allen, Patterns of Preaching. A Sermon Sampler. Chalice Press 1998, 252pp.
Wat is de mens, dat Gij hem gedenkt? Een bijdrage tot een homiletische antropologie
Authors: Bos R.
Published: November 2012

This article offers a contribution to the homiletical anthropology. It is an attempt to correct certain elements of the classical reformed vision, where human beings are theologically defined as sinners. About human relations, human thoughts, words and deeds, one cannot speak only in terms of sin, deficit or guilt that must be redeemed. Human experience also attests to the reality of the Kingdom of God and its righteousness. Theoretical homiletics and practical sermons have to accept this ambivalence of experience. This article wants to do justice to the multifacetted and multi-coloured character of the witnesses of Old and New Testament. - Obedience and righteousness get their places next to guilt and failure. - When preaching speaks about sin and sinners, the preacher must distinguish between perpetrators and victims. Preaching cannot and may not throw both on one heap. - The experience of evil is not only a matter of guilt. Evil can present itself also as suffering which gives rise to lament in the midst of the community offaith. - Human beings can also be surprised by unexpected joy and grace, which gives rise to songs of praise.
Teologiekroniek - Die kerk en ekonomiese globalisering
Authors: De Villiers D.E.
Published: November 2012

Die mees ingrypende ontwikkeling op ekonomiese gebied van die afgelope dekades is ongetwyfeld ekonomiese giobalisering. Tot heel onlangs is meestal in gloeiende positiewe terme oor ekonomiese globalisering gepraat.
Digoeuvre van Cas Vos: die beliggaming van ‘n lewensvreugdespel
Authors: Buscop J
Published: November 2012

Since  1999 Cas Vos has produced three books of poetry; Vuurtong (1999), Gode van Papier (2001) and Enkeldiep (2003). These works are all written from the perspective of  a  particular  Weltanschauung or Zeitgeist which may be defined as La joie de vivre. Joy of life manifests itself on a number of levels, including the Greek, pneuma, psuche and soma. La joie de vivre is also a crucial dimension of the gameplay that is love. Vos writes and lives love as a gift of God and identifies three stages of love, the Greek, eros, phileo and agape love. Whilst the joy of life has many sides, Vos also indicates  the  opposite manifestations of joie de vivre in pain, sickness, loss and death. Vos is a new inspiration in Afrikaans literature and has created an idiolectic voice which, in his own words, can be summarized as the coitus between different language signs.
The “book of life” (Psalm 69:29) - a question of life or death?
Authors: Groenewald A
Published: November 2012

The image “book of life” is mentioned expressis verbis in Psalm 69:29a. The supplicant appeals to God to erase his enemies  from  the “book of life”. The aim of  this paper  is to elaborate on this image. Quite varied notions can be distinguished in this regard: firstly, the idea of the lists of the citizenry and secondly, the image of the heavenly book. Furthermore, three types of “heavenly books” can be distinguished, namely (1) the book  of  fate; (2)  the  book of works; and (3) the book of life. The conclusion is drawn that “life” here implies “life” under the protection of God which is sustained by his righteousness (69:28). The supplicant’s enemies will be excluded from this privilege when God erases them from the “book of life”. This reference to  life is primarily a reference to ordinary earthly life.
Konkrete uitdagings vir die kerk vandag
Authors: Kritzinger J J
Published: November 2012

In a recent publication No Quick Fixes a number of knowledgeable people dealt with some contemporary  challenges to the church in its mission in the South African context. In this article the reader is introduced to these, but  the focus is on those aspects of the challenge which arise from the two main influences in the spiritual sphere: on the one hand the overwhelming secularising influence of the modern western worldview, and on the other hand the increasing emphasis on the return to the values of traditional Africa, as formulated in the movement for the African Renaissance.
Die hiërargiese funksionering van God, mans en vroue in die brief aan die Efesiërs
Authors: Nortj L
Published: November 2012

Since the fourth century before the Christian era has the household been considered as the most basic unit  of  society. Furthermore,  this micro cosmos is reflecting the pyramidal structure of the whole society (meso cosmos) and even the universe (macro cosmos). In this article I point out how the author of the letter to the Ephesians uses this idea to portray the hierarchical functioning of God the Father of fathers in the universe. The Christian community is portrayed as a reflection of  this hierarchy and therefore the household should also reflect this order. The best way of maintaining the power in society, namely the Christian community, is to make sure that the head of the household, namely the man/father/boss holds to his rightful place as head of his wife and household. The author advices women to submit to their husbands and  therefore they should meet the cultural requirements of the public order rather than to live up to the Christian principles of faith.
Psalms and Liturgy: Their reception and contextualisation
Authors: Braulik G.P.
Published: November 2012

In the interpretation of texts in modern Old Testament studies, a double change in perspective, which has important consequences for the liturgical use of the Psalms, is currently taking place. In the first reorientation, the movement is “from the hypothetically reconstructed ‘original’ text to the text written down in bookform and then to the canonical text”; in the second, the attention moves “from the text to the recipient”. On the one hand, the whole Psalter and its connec-tions with the totality of Holy Scripture are thus increasingly becoming the focus of attention. On the other hand, reception aesthetical, reader-oriented exegesis is overcoming the cleft caused by a purely historical view, in favour of a situational perspective. The article delineates this change and applies especially the first approach to the Psalms. The Psalter then appears neither as a mere lectionary nor primarily as a prayer text, but as a text for meditation. Its technique of the juxtaposition of certain Psalms (iuxtapositio) and of the chainage or concatenation of keywords (concatenatio) opens up new and diverse dimensions of meaning.This is illustrated according to Psalm 103. Its connections to its immediate context are first explained, upon which a few lines of canonical intertextuality within the whole Bible are traced. We are thus lead to recognise a certain multi-perspectivity, reaching from the Sinai pericope to the Lord’s prayer.
The rhetorics of finding a new identity in a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society: The case of the book of Chronicles
Authors: Jonker L.C.
Published: November 2012

Scholars generally agree that the Books of Chronicles are the products of certain Israelite (Levitical) groups in the Persian province of Jehud who struggled with the dissonance between their older historical and theological traditions on the one hand, and their present reality on the other hand. Within the totally different conditions under Persian rule (a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society) they had to find a new identity. The primary focus of this article is to examine the rhetorics of the intense struggle for a new identity presented to the reader in the Books of Chronicles. It is argued that this new identity represented a shift from a historically-defined identity that lasted from the monarchical period to the early post-exilic phase, to a cultic identity during the Persian era. The article also endeavours to relate the identity forming discourse of these biblical books to the present processes in post-apartheid South African society. The question is asked whether a similar shift can be observed in this modern situation.
Om oor God te praat: ’n Kritiese oorsig van gesprekke onder Afrikaanssprekende Christene van die gereformeerde tradisie (1998–2003)
Authors: Spangenberg I J J
Published: November 2012

The book  Die  vreemde God en sy mense (The enigmatic God and his people) — published in 1998 — marks the beginning  of a new debate about God amongst Afrikaans-speaking people of  the reformed  tradition. The fall of the National Party government and the end of the Apartheid policy in 1994 forced  theologians to reflect on the authority of the Bible; the issue of creation, the Big Bang and evolution; the relationship between Christianity and other religions; the historical Jesus research and the possibility of a new reformation. Afrikaans-speaking people suddenly became part of the global village and could not ignore these issues anymore. Four tendencies in the debates are identified: (1) clinging to the credos of the reformed tradition and adhering to the master narrative of Western Christianity; (2) looking at the credos as cultural and time-conditioned ones but trying to integrate the theories of the Big Bang and evolution with the master narrative of Christianity, (3) breaking away from the master narrative of Western  Christianity and creating a new  tradition; (4) abandoning the Christian tradition altogether and exploring another religious tradition, especially Buddhism.
“The Messianic Dimensions of Kingship in Deuteronomy 17:14-20 as fulfilled by Jesus in Matthew”
Authors: Branch Robin
Published: November 2012

This article examines a brief statement made by Patrick D Miller in his commentary on Deuteronomy, namely that scholars quite likely have missed the most important Old Testament passage relating to the kind  of kingship Jesus manifested in his earthly ministry.Deuteronomy 17:14-20 gives a job description for an upcoming, earthly king; it carries messianic dimensions. Christian scholars, however, primarily have pointed to Isaiah and the messianic passages of the royal psalms to provide indication from the Old Testament  that Jesus indeed  fulfilled  the promises therein of the promised king and the Messiah. Reading like a modern “Position Available” advertisement, the qualifications for kingship in Deuteronomy begin by saying the coming king must be God’s choice, an Israelite and not a foreigner; frugal, not prone to displays of wealth and military might; and careful to keep his heart faithful to the Lord. Furthermore, a king’s first duty is to write for himself a copy of the law and to read it throughout his life. The kind of kingship Jesus displayed during his ministry indeed exemplified his personal knowledge and careful following of the law, his total obedience to  the law, his reverence for the law, and his humility before his disciples—all qualifications for earthly kingship “advertised” in the pericope. The Gospel of Matthew resonates with passages showing that Jesus  answered the advertisement, met the job description, and fulfilled the qualifications for kingship outlined prophetically by Moses in Deuteronomy.
Vergewe en vergeet: ‘n Pastorale perspektief
Authors: Dreyer Y
Published: November 2012

This article focuses on pastoral care concerning people who have been victimised by others. The aim is to highlight the theological dilemma created for such people by the Christian imperative to forgive. The article argues that pastoral care goes beyond this imperative. The focus is rather on healing and wholeness. After this has been achieved, true compassion toward others who are down-trodden and have been hurt, becomes possible. In this way forgiveness can be internalised. This pastoral approach is theoretically substantiated by the philosophy of Paul Ricoeur and the practical theology of Donald Capps.
The land as a Leitmotiv in the book of Amos
Authors: Snyman S D
Published: November 2012

The hypothesis argued is that the  theme of the land serves as a leitmotiv in the book of Amos. The focus of this investigation will be on the occurrence of the words normally used in connection with the land, that is  eretz (Jra) and  adamā (hmda), in the book of Amos. The land is promised and granted (2:9-10; 3:2,9) to the people to live in and enjoy the produce the land yields but their stay in the land is not unconditional. Unfortunately, only a small part of the population shared in the wealth of the land. People that also ought to have shared in the bounty of the land, were exploited only to make the rich even richer and the poor even poorer. Consequently, the land would turn against the people living in and of it (1:2; 4:4-12;8:4, 8-9, 11). Ultimately the land would be lost in exile (3:11, 15; 4:1-3; 7:10-17). At the end of the book it is foreseen that the land will once again be restored to the people (9:11-15). In light of the importance of the land in the book and the looming threat of a coming exile due to the conditions in the land, it is suggested that the reference to the earthquake in 1:2 may take on an additional metaphorical meaning. The reference to the earthquake is perhaps a premonition of what may be expected: turmoil and upheaval in the land and even expulsion from the land instead of peace and stability. Mentioning the earthquake right at the beginning may be a subtle reminder that the land is at stake in the prophecies that will follow in the rest of the book.
Prejudice, homophobia and the Christian faith community
Authors: Dreyer Y
Published: November 2012

The aim of the article is to illustrate that prejudice differs fundamentally from legitimate presuppositions that come into play when people interpret the Bible or reflect theologically on contemporary issues such as homosexuality. It is argued that prejudice leads to the theologically untenable phenomenon of homophobia. Though the rejection of prejudicial attitudes does not mean that “anything goes”, it is a theological necessity to expose harmful attitudes and behaviours regarding sexuality. To this end the article investigates the labels “homosexual”, “gay” and “queer” that, on the one hand, express and perpetuate homophobia and on the other hand represent a search for authentic identity on the part of sexual minorities. The  article reflects on the effect of underlying social identity theories on homophobia. Such theories include nominialism with its focus on “sameness” and essentialism that focuses on “difference”, as well as primordialism with its emphasis on the immutability of social identity formation and constructionism that highlights change.
Permanente homoseksuele verhoudings van liefde en trou
Authors: Potgieter J
Published: November 2012

In this article, the argument is made that homosexual relationships of love and commitment was known by the writers of the Bible. Though definitions like “gay” or “homosexuality” was not known, sexual identity was known. According to the anthropology of the Mediterranean people, somebody’s identity was found in the way he or she lived: “If I have a homosexual relationship, then my identity was homosexual”. This article shows that permanent homosexual relationships of love and commitment were known among the Greek philosophers. People like Plato, Aristotle and Pausanius had permanent homosexual partners. Even Paul knew about permanent homosexual relationships of love and commitment. Sufficient evidence has been found in cities like Rome, Corinth and Ephesus on the existence of such relationships.
An exegetical-theological consideration of the hardening of the Jewish religious leaders’ hearts in Mark 3:1-6
Authors: Lee Sug-Ho
Published: November 2012

The goal of this article is to look at the literary-theological function of the Jewish religious leaders hardening in Mark 3:1-6. In this text, the concept of “hardness of heart” is used in order to indicate their continued unbelief and rejection. The hardening may also be signaling their presumed end, namely divine judgment (cf. 12:1-2). Although Jesus proclaims the arrival of the kingdom in his authoritative teaching and miracles, the Jewish religious leaders refuse to Jesus’  message, as Pharaoh, whose heart is hardened, refuses to obey God’ s commend. Just as his hardening and rejection allows the plagues to be multiplied as a great judgment (Ex. 7:3) and the catastrophe at the sea (Ex. 14:4, 8, 14), the Jewish religious leaders’  unbelieving rejection by their hardening will allow God’ s judgment. Thus, with regard to  the Jewish religious leaders, the concept of “hardness of heart” identifies their unbelief and hostility. It is not simply innocent incomprehension, but an intended rejection.
The ethic of the free: A walk according to the Spirit! A perspective from Galatians
Authors: Loubser GMH
Published: November 2012

The article argues that Galatians does not distinguish between soteriological and ethical freedom. Freedom encompasses the believer in Christ’ s entire salvation. However , he not only possesses freedom in Christ, but has to equally live it fully as a vocation. In as much as law has no salvational role in his life, it also has no ethical roll.  The believer receives the Spirit by faith in Christ.  The Spirit who quickens new life in him, orientating him to Christ, also guides and enables him to do God’ s will according to Christ’ s faithfulness. The latter is illustrated in His giving of Himself in loving service, even unto a cross, and so doing the will of our God and Father. The believer also glorifies God by doing his will in the loving and serving faithfulness of Christ, by the guidance of the Spirit. Thus, the believer’ s ethic of freedom is fully christological-pneumatological and anomistic without being libertinistic at all. Believers should not fear their God-given freedom by reverting to any form of law observance, but rather celebrate it by trustingly and freely walking in step with the Spirit
Notes on the foundation of the Federal Theological Seminary of Southern Africa (Fedsem)
Authors: Duncan G A
Published: November 2012

The Federal  Theological Seminary of Southern  Africa was established in a changing and fluid situation in 1960s South Africa both politically and ecclesiastically. Its foundation can be attributed to the influence of these national and church influences. Politically, the changing context in the educational world in particular and ecclesiastically, a growing tendency towards ecumenism both nationally and internationally contributed to the need for an independent institution which would train ministers for the mainline churches in a deteriorating political context. In addition, there was a strong view that the influence of the Holy Spirit was operative in the political context which ‘forced the church to be the church’.
African spirituality that shapes the concept of Ubuntu
Authors: Masango MJS
Published: November 2012

Nolan(1982:7) shares an interesting concept of spirituality. He says:  “The Spiritual life is the whole of one’s life insofar as it is motivated and determined by the Holy Spirit, the spirit of Jesus”.  This kind of spirituality shapes persons in such a way that they grow into the concept of Ubuntu (humanness). In other words, an integrated spirituality is a spirituality in which who we are, and what we do are intimately related. The process of an  African spiritualist is also developed within the village. Mbiti reminds us that: “It takes a whole village to raise a child” (Mbiti 1977:23). In short, relationship is part of development of African spirituality. This article further explores on how elders within the village become leaders, and towards the end of their life journey, they becomes teachers and good ancestors, especially to younger generation. It is important to note that those who are good (while iving) and are able to pass their knowledge and wisdom to others become good ancestors when they die...
A Pentecostal perspective on the use of Psalms of Lament in worship
Authors: Mar Leonard P
Published: November 2012

The idea of lament as part of human worship experience is foreign within the Pentecostal tradition. This is the case not only in Pentecostal literature, but also in Pentecostal liturgy. This negative viewpoint regarding the place of lament in worship goes hand in hand with the negativity towards the whole of the Old Testament within the Pentecostal tradition. Pentecostals usually regard the New Testament as more applicable to the life and worship of the Church. This viewpoint is in contrast with Pentecostal hermeneutics, with its emphasis on “shared experience”. The aim of this paper is to show that lament should be part and parcel of Pentecostal worship. Guidelines on how lament can be utilised in the Pentecostal Church are presented.
South African discourse analysis in theory and practice
Authors: Du Toit A B
Published: November 2012

Discourse analysis should not be overly ambitious, but it can be a most helpful exegetical tool if it concentrates on the argumentative flow and thematic aspects of a discourse. A refined model of South African discourse analysis is presented. The different stages in this model are discussed and illustrated by means of Philippians 3:2-11. Special attention is given to problems regarding the dividing of the text into colons.
God in de (Post)moderne cultuur - George Steiner over transcendentie in kunst en cultuur
Authors: Stoker W
Published: November 2012

God in the (Post modern culture – George Steiner on transcendence in art and cultureIn his 1989 study Real Presences the well-known philosopher and literary scholar George Steiner argues that there is a crisis in philosophy, art and literature. The contract between word and world has been broken, whereby we can no longer make any assertions about human beings and the world. Communication thus becomes problematic. The (post)modern world has become nihilistic. Steiner provides a theological explanation for what in his view is a serious crisis in (post)modern art and in Western culture in general: he blames this crisis for the loss of transcendence through the “death of God”.This paper will show that Steiner, on the basis of his metaphysical view of transcendence ends up with the dilemma of having to choose between transcendence or immanence/nihilism. This dilemma is unnecessary to the extent that it suggests that transcendence is identical with metaphysical transcendence. If we reject this identification, then the alternative for Steiner’s metaphysical transcendence is not only immanence, viewed as nihilism but can also be another form of transcendence. And this casts another light on the crisis Steiner has indicated in culture.
Reconciliation as narrative: Witnessing against a too easy and a too difficult reconciliation
Authors: Botha N
Published: November 2012

Reconciliation as narrative: Witnessing against a too easy and a too difficult reconciliationAfter the dawn of democracy in South Africa in 1994 diverse paradigms on reconciliation have appeared on the scene. In this article these paradigms are not discredited so much for being downright unproductive, but they are found to be either too prescriptive as is the case with the TRC or too limited as is the case with the three paradigms of which mere sketches are offered.The main thrust of the article is a proposal on developing reconciliation as narrative in contradistinction to a dogmatic, technical approach to reconciliation as something to be organised, to be prescribed and engineered. The basic thesis of the article is that narrative can potentially create vast space for story-telling and for many more voices to be heard on the issue of reconciliation. The notion of narrative is advanced as a serious academic category and not an intellectual fad. A further issue is illustrating how issues like remembering, forgiveness and justice need to be brought into discourse with reconciliation.
Spirituality and the University
Authors: Kourie C.
Published: November 2012

It is not often that we witness the birth of a new discipline; the academy is slow to open its doors to �newcomers�. Yet, within the last few decades, we have seen the introduction of the �new� discipline of Spirituality into the revered corridors of higher education, not without some raised eye-brows from those within the established disciplines, in particular that of theology and religion. Spirituality is difficult to define and its inter-disciplinary nature does not allow for easy classification. There are diverse spiritualities, each one culture-specific, expressing its own historical, sociological, theological, linguistic and philosophical orientation. Post-patriarchal and telluric, contemporary spirituality affects all areas of society, and is a force for personal and societal transformation. The important role of the academy in this endeavour is increasingly coming to the fore. Spirituality can no longer be considered a �Cinderella� discipline; on the contrary, it has returned to its rightful place and is exerting considerable influence both within and outside the walls of the university.
Persoonlikheidstyle as ekklesiologiese sleutel
Authors: Steyn C.S.
Published: November 2012

Personality types can be understood as a key in the ecclesiological positioning of members of the church. The aim of this article is to emphasise the possibilities for the church of addressing members of different personality types as well as utilising them in order to build a bridge to the world. Personality types are not only a key in understanding members but also in engaging and utilising them in the church�s orientation to and task towards the world. To be a church of character in these times is a challenge in which personality types can be of help. In this article Gerben Heitink�s ecclesiological matrix is combined with the sixteen distinct MBTI� personality types to form a dynamic perspective as to how specific types can be addressed and utilised in order to be a church of character.
Onesimus � �n wegloopslaaf? Oor die ontstaansituasie van die Filemonbrief
Authors: Tolmie D. F.
Published: November 2012

It is often assumed that Onesimus (mentioned in Paul�s Letter to Philemon) was a runaway slave, but in many instances the arguments supporting such a hypothesis are neither provided nor critically examined. A scrutiny of research in this regard indicates the complexity of the matter. In this article various theories on the origin of the Letter to Philemon are discussed and evaluated. The article is concluded by suggestions for making a well-founded decision in this regard.
Agomelatine: Its Role in the Management of Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Cardinali Daniel P. , Vidal María F. , Vigo Daniel E.
Published: November 2012

Circadian rhythm abnormalities, as shown by sleep/wake cycle disturbances, constitute one the most prevalent signs of depressive illness; advances or delays in the circadian phase are documented in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The disturbances in the amplitude and phase of rhythm in melatonin secretion that occur in patients with depression resemble those seen in chronobiological disorders, thus suggesting a link between disturbed melatonin secretion and depressed mood. Based on this, agomelatine, the first MT1/MT2 melatonergic agonist displaying also 5-HT2C serotonergic antagonism, has been introduced as an antidepressant. Agomelatine has been shown to be effective in several animal models of depression and anxiety and it has beneficial effects in patients with MDD, bipolar disorder, or SAD. Among agomelatine's characteristics are a rapid onset of action and a pronounced effectiveness for correcting circadian rhythm abnormalities and improving the sleep/wake cycle. Agomelatine also improves the 3 functional dimensions of depression—emotional, cognitive, and social—thus aiding in the full recovery of patients to a normal life.
Impact of the aging process of black carbon aerosols on their spatial distribution, hygroscopicity, and radiative forcing in a global climate model
Authors: Goto D. , Oshima N. , Nakajima T. , Takemura T. , Ohara T.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Black carbon (BC) absorbs shortwave radiation more strongly than any other type of aerosol, and an accurate simulation of the aging processes of BC-containing particle is required to properly predict aerosol radiative forcing (ARF) and climate change. However, BC aging processes have been simplified in general circulation models (GCMs) due to limited computational resources. In particular, differences in the representation of the mixing states of BC-containing particles between GCMs constitute one of main reasons for the uncertainty in ARF estimates. To understand an impact of the BC aging processes and the mixing state of BC on the spatial distribution of BC and ARF caused by BC (BC-ARF), we implemented three different methods of incorporating BC aging processes into a global aerosol transport model, SPRINTARS: (1) the "AGV" method, using variable conversion rates of BC aging based on a new type of parameterization depending on both BC amount and sulfuric acid; (2) the "AGF" method, using a constant conversion rate used worldwide in GCMs; and (3) the "ORIG" method, which is used in the original SPRINTARS. First, we found that these different methods produced different BC burden within 10% over industrial areas and 50% over remote oceans. Second, a ratio of water-insoluble BC to total BC (WIBC ratio) was very different among the three methods. Near the BC source region, for example, the WIBC ratios were estimated to be 80–90% (AGV and AGF) and 50–60% (ORIG). Third, although the BC aging process in GCMs had small impacts on the BC burden, they had a large impact on BC-ARF through a change in both the WIBC ratio and non-BC compounds coating on BC cores. As a result, possible differences in the treatment of the BC aging process between aerosol modeling studies can produce a difference of approximately 0.3 Wm−2 in the magnitude of BC-ARF, which is comparable to the uncertainty suggested by results from a global aerosol modeling intercomparison project, AeroCom. The surface aerosol forcing efficiencies normalized by aerosol optical thickness and by BC burden varied greatly with region in the AGV method, which allowed for the existence of internally mixed BC and sulfate, whereas these were not varied with region in the AGF method. These results suggest that the efficiencies of BC-ARF obtained by previous studies using the AGF method are significantly underestimated.
The large variation in organic carbon consumption in spring in the East China Sea
Authors: Chen C.-C. , Gong G.-C. , Shiah F.-K. , Chou W.-C. , Hung C.-C.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. A tremendous amount of organic carbon respired by planktonic communities has been found in summer in the East China Sea (ECS), and this rate has been significantly correlated with fluvial discharge from the Changjiang River. However, data related to this issue in other seasons have rarely been collected. To evaluate and reveal the potential controlling mechanism of organic carbon consumption in spring in the ECS, research using stations covering almost the entire ECS shelf was conducted in the spring of 2009 and 2010. During both periods, the fluvial discharges were similar, and these rates were comparable to high riverine flow in summer. Interestingly, planktonic community respiration (CR) varied widely in both springs; in 2009, the level of CR was double that of 2010, with mean (± SD) values of 111.7 (± 76.3) and 50.7 (± 62.9) mg C m−3 d−1, respectively. The CR was positively linearly regressed with concentrations of particulate organic carbon and/or chlorophyll a (Chl a) in 2009 (all p< 0.01). These results suggest that the rate was dependent on planktonic activities, especially that of phytoplankton, in 2009. During this period, phytoplankton growth flourished due to allochthonous nutrients discharged from the Changjiang River. Furthermore, higher phytoplankton growth leaded to the absorption of an enormous amount of fugacity of CO2 (fCO2) in the surface waters, even with a significant amount of inorganic carbon regenerated via CR. In 2010, there were even more riverine runoff nutrients into the ECS than in 2009. Surprisingly, the growth of phytoplankton in 2010 was not stimulated by enriched nutrients, and its growth was likely limited by low water temperature and/or low light intensity. Low temperature might also suppress planktonic metabolism, and this could explain why the CR was lower in 2010. During this period, lower surface water fCO2 might have mainly been driven by physical process(es). To conclude, these results indicate that organic carbon consumption (i.e. CR) in the ECS in spring might be controlled by the magnitude of planktonic activities and physical factor (e.g. temperature), and that the latter is especially important during a cold spring season. This further suggests that the high intraseasonal variability of organic carbon consumption needs to be kept in mind when budgeting the annual carbon balance.
Nitrous oxide emissions from soil of an African rain forest in Ghana
Authors: Castaldi S. , Bertolini T. , Valente A. , Chiti T. , Valentini R.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Most recently atmospheric studies have evidenced the imprint of large N2O sources in tropical/subtropical lands. This source might be attributed to agricultural areas as well as to natural humid ecosystems. The uncertainty related to both sources is very high, due to the paucity of data and small frequency of sampling in tropical studies. This is particularly relevant for the African continent. The principal objective of this work was to quantify the annual budget of N2O emissions in an African tropical rain forest. Soil N2O emissions were measured over 19 months in Ghana, National Park of Ankasa, in upland and lowland areas, for a total of 119 days of observation. The calculated annual average emission was 2.33 ± 0.20 kg N-N2O ha−1yr−1, taking into account the proportion of upland vs. lowland, as the two areas showed significantly different fluxes, the lowland being characterized by lower N2O emissions. N2O fluxes peaked between June and August and were significantly correlated with soil respiration on a daily and monthly basis. No clear correlation was found in the upland areas between N2O fluxes and soil water content or rain whereas in the lowland soil water content concurred with soil respiration in determining N2O flux variability. The N2O source strength calculated in this study, very close to those reported for the other two available studies in African rain forests and to the estimated mean derived from worldwide studies in humid tropical forests (2.96 ± 2.0 kg N-N2O ha−1 yr−1), supports the concept that tropical humid forests represent the strongest natural source of N2O emissions, most probably the strongest source of N2O in the African continent.
A comparison between gradient descent and stochastic approaches for parameter optimization of a coupled ocean–sea ice model
Authors: Sumata H. , Kauker F. , Gerdes R. , Köberle C. , Karcher M.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Two types of optimization methods were applied to a parameter optimization problem in a coupled ocean–sea ice model, and applicability and efficiency of the respective methods were examined. One is a finite difference method based on a traditional gradient descent approach, while the other adopts genetic algorithms as an example of stochastic approaches. Several series of parameter optimization experiments were performed by minimizing a cost function composed of model–data misfit of ice concentration, ice drift velocity and ice thickness. The finite difference method fails to estimate optimal parameters due to an ill-shaped nature of the cost function, whereas the genetic algorithms can effectively estimate near optimal parameters with a practical number of iterations. The results of the study indicate that a sophisticated stochastic approach is of practical use to a parameter optimization of a coupled ocean–sea ice model.
Observations of enhanced thinning in the upper reaches of Svalbard glaciers
Authors: James T. D. , Murray T. , Barrand N. E. , Sykes H. J. , Fox A. J. , King M. A.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Changes in the volume and extent of land ice of the Svalbard archipelago have been the subject of considerable research since their sensitivity to changes in climate was first noted. However, the measurement of these changes is often necessarily based on point or profile measurements which may not be representative if extrapolated to a whole catchment or region. Combining high-resolution elevation data from contemporary laser-altimetry surveys and archived aerial photography makes it possible to measure historical changes across a glacier's surface without the need for extrapolation. Here we present a high spatial resolution time-series for six Arctic glaciers in the Svalbard archipelago spanning 1961 to 2005. We find high variability in thinning rates between sites with prevalent elevation changes at all sites averaging −0.59 ± 0.04 m a−1 between 1961–2005. Prior to 1990, ice surface elevation was changing at an average rate of −0.52 ± 0.09 m a−1 which decreased to −0.76 ± 0.10 m a−1 after 1990. Setting the elevation changes against the glaciers' altitude distribution reveals that significant increases in thinning rates are occurring most notably in the glaciers' upper reaches. We find that these changes are coincident with a decrease in winter precipitation at the Longyearbyen meteorological station and could reflect a decrease in albedo or dynamic response to lower accumulation. Further work is required to understand fully the causes of this increase in thinning rates in the glaciers' upper reaches. If on-going and occurring elsewhere in the archipelago, these changes will have a significant effect on the region's future mass balance. Our results highlight the importance of understanding the climatological context of geodetic mass balance measurements and demonstrate the difficulty of using index glaciers to represent regional changes in areas of strong climatological gradients.
Focal Salvage Therapy for Locally Recurrent Prostate Cancer: A Review
Authors: Cerruto Maria Angela , D'Elia Carolina , Artibani Walter
Published: November 2012

Objectives

To evaluate the current status of focal therapy as the salvage treatment option for patients with recurrent prostate cancer after established therapy (radiation, surgery) failure for localized tumor.

Methods

A MedLine search using specified search terms was done on December 23, 2011. This research rendered 346 papers related to High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), 644 papers related to cryosurgery, 180 related to photodynamic therapy and 3 articles related to radio frequency ablation. Very few of these papers presented original outcome data and are included in the present review.

Results

No controlled trial was available for analysis.

Conclusions

Salvage HIFU in patients with local recurrence of prostate cancer after radical EBRT indicate is a reasonable treatment option, but better patient selection criteria are needed. It is a promising treatment option for local recurrence after radiation therapy, with morbidity comparable with other forms of salvage treatment. The side effects are not negligible but comparable with other forms of salvage treatment. Photodynamic therapy is a new option that could be suitable for organ-confined PC recurrence after radiotherapy, but the data are very few.
Foliar Spray of Nitrogen Fertilizer on Raised Bed Increases Yield of Transplanted Aman Rice over Conventional Method
Authors: Bhuyan M. H. M. , Ferdousi Mst. R. , Iqbal M. T.
Published: November 2012

Bed planting with foliar nitrogen fertilizer application of rice production systems is very new, and research on it is still at introductory phase. Influence of foliar application of nitrogen fertilizer on growth and yield of transplanted aman rice and evaluation of water and fertilizer application efficiency of rice-fallow-rice cropping system were investigated under raised bed cultivation method. Results showed that foliar spray in bed planting method increased grain yield of transplanted aman rice up to 9.33% over conventional method. Foliar nitrogen fertilizer application in bed planting method increased the number of panicle m−2, number of grains panicle−1, and 1000-grain weight of rice than the conventional method. Sterility percentage and weed infestation were lower at foliar nitrogen fertilizer application in bed planting method than the conventional method. Thirty-nine percent of irrigation water and time for application could be saved through foliar nitrogen spray in bed planting than conventional method. Water use efficiency for grain and biomass production was higher by foliar nitrogen fertilizer application in bed planting than conventional method. Likewise, agronomic efficiency of foliar nitrogen fertilizer application in bed planting method was higher than the conventional method. This study concluded that foliar nitrogen spray in bed planting method is a new approach to get fertilizer and water use efficiency as well as higher yield compared to existing agronomic practice in Bangladesh.
Evaluation of Airway Scope at Improving the Success Rate of the First Intubation Attempt by Nonexpert Physicians: A Randomized Crossover Manikin Study
Authors: Yuasa Haruyuki , Yokoyama Hiroyuki , Yonemoto Naohiro , Kasahara Yoichiro , Nonogi Hiroshi
Published: November 2012

Purpose. The aim of the study was to assess the performance of Airway Scope
(AWS) on the first attempt at intubation in manikins by nonexpert physicians. Methods. A randomized crossover trial involving seven scenarios. Participants: residents of a cardiovascular hospital. In group A, the AWS procedure was performed first followed by Machintouch Laryngoscopy (ML), while in group B the ML procedure was performed first and then the AWS. The primary outcome assessed was the success of first intubation attempt in a normal scenario. The secondary outcome assessments were success in six other scenarios, and also elapsed time and dental trauma caused in all scenarios. Results. There were 34 participants. All AWS-assisted intubations were successfully completed, but one ML-assisted intubation failed in the normal scenario (P=0.32). The outcomes achieved by the AWS in scenarios involving cervical immobilization (P=0.03), tongue edema (P≤0.001), pharyngeal obstruction (P≤0.001), and jaw trismus (P=0.001) were superior to those obtained with the ML. Conclusions. Use of AWS-assisted intubation in manikin scenarios results in a significantly high intubation success rate on the first attempt by nonexpert physicians. These findings suggest this new device will be useful for nonexpert physicians in emergency situations.
L’enseignement médical à Québec (1800-1848)
Authors: Galarneau Claude
Published: November 2012

Avant la création de l’École de médecine de Québec, les étudiants devaient faire un apprentissage auprès d’un médecin pendant cinq années consécutives ou aller en Angleterre, aux États-Unis ou en France après trois années à Québec. Cet enseignement comprend aussi quelques cours chez les médecins et dans les hôpitaux. Les livres de médecine complétaient la formation des futurs médecins.
Changes in hospitalizations due to opportunistic infections, chronic conditions and other causes among HIV patients (1989–2011). A study in a HIV unit
Authors: Redondo Sanchez C , Poza Cisneros G , Galera Peñaranda C , Ruiz C , Hernandez A , Cascales A , Rodriguez F , Oliva J
Published: November 2012

Background

Reduction in mortality and morbidity in HIV patients due to the introduction of HAART have resulted in changes in patterns of hospital admissions.

Objective

To examine trends of HIV patients hospital admissions.

Design and method

Serial cross‐sectional analysis of HIV‐hospitalized patients from 1989 to 2011 in an HIV Care Unit. Each hospitalization was classified as major categories: opportunistic infections, other infections, drug‐related admissions, chronic hepatopathy, AIDS and non‐AIDS‐related tumours and chronic medical conditions (COPD, diabetes) and as specific diagnosis: tuberculosis, PCP, CMV, bacterial pneumonia and others. We considered 4 periods of time: pre‐HAART, 1989–1996; early HAART, 1997–2001; intermediate HAART, 2002–2006; and present HAART, 2007–2011.

Results

We evaluated 2588 admissions. 20.7% of patients were unaware of HIV infection before first admission; this proportion did not change along the time (p=0.27). No previous outpatient follow‐up was seen in 34.9% of patients. There were differences in diagnosis, mortality, age and mean inpatient stay time (Table 1) between the analyzed periods of time.

OI
HIV tumours
Non‐HIV tumours
Chronic diseases
Mortality
Mean age
Mean hospital stay
Pneumonia
Resp infect
TBC
CMV
PCP
PML

Pre‐HAART 682 adm.
51.7%*
5.1%*
0.8%*
3.2%*
10.1%*
36.1*
23.9*
12.1%*
14.1%*
14.1%
15%*
9.5%*
5.1%

Early HAART 632 adm.
34.5%
4%
2.2%
9%
4.6%
38.4
17.2*
21.1%
19.9%
11.7%
5%
8.2%
4.1%

Intermediate HAART 613 adm.
31.4%*
2.4%
2.8%
7.7%
4.4%
39.6
15.7
25.6%*
23.2%
11.4%
1.7%*
3.4%*
3%

Present HAART 661 adm.
21.8%*
0.8%*
4.1%*
15.9%*
3.8%*
42.9*
14.2
29.8%*
29.2%*
10.9%
1.9%*
4.2%*
2.2%

p<0.05

Conclusions

(i) HAART and older age have changed the pattern of hospital admissions with a decrease of OI‐related admissions and an increase of chronic diseases and non‐AIDS‐related tumours and with a decrease in mortality and length of inpatient stay. (ii) Proportion of patients with unknown HIV serostatus before admission has not changed along the time. (iii) Pneumonia, respiratory tract infection and tuberculosis were the more common causes of admission.