bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of Alloying Elements on the Corrosion Behavior of Amorphous W–Zr–(15–33)Cr Alloys in 1 M NaOH Solution
Authors: Kumal Raju Ram , Bhattarai Jagadeesh
Published: June 2010

Roles of alloy-constituting elements on the corrosion behavior of the sputter-depositedamorphous W-Zr-(15-33)Cr alloys was studied in 1 M NaOH solution open to air at 25°Cusing corrosion tests and open circuit potential measurements. Zirconium and chromiummetals act synergistically with tungsten in enhancing the corrosion resistance of the sputterdepositedamorphous W-Zr-Cr alloys containing 15-33 at % chromium content so as toshow higher corrosion resistance than those of alloy-constituting elements in 1 M NaOHsolution. The corrosion rates of the amorphous W-Zr-(15-33)Cr alloys containing 9-33 at %tungsten are in the ranges of 2.0-5.0×10-3 mm.y-1 after immersion for 240 h in 1 M NaOHsolution which is about two orders of magnitude lower corrosion rates lower than that oftungsten and even slightly lower than that of the zirconium metal. The simultaneousadditions of zirconium and chromium metals in W-Zr-(15-33)Cr alloys are effective forennoblement of the open circuit potential of the tungsten metal.Keywords: W-Zr-Cr alloys, corrosion resistance, immersion test, open circuit potential, 1 MNaOH.DOI:  10.3126/jncs.v25i0.3312Journal of Nepal Chemical Society Volume 25, 2010 pp 93-100
Mobility Analysis of Kinematic Chains
Authors: Dargar Ashok , Hasan Ali , Khan RA
Published: June 2010

In the present work a simple and efficient method is proposed to identify whether a kinematicchain posses total, partial or fractionated mobility. The proposed method uses the chain flowvalues (CFV) derived from the flow matrix of the given kinematic chain and successfullyapplied to all known cases of 2 and 3 degree of freedom planar kinematic chains. Since themethod is systematic and efficient, it can be applied to the more complex chains which nothave been reported in the literature yet. This study will be helpful in dividing the frame andinput links from the view point of mobility. Some examples are provided to demonstrate theeffectiveness of this method.Keywords: Degree of freedom (DOF); Contour; Chain flow value (CFV).DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i1.3307Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6(1) 2010, pp25-32
Thermal Induced Conductance of KOH Etched Silicon Surface
Authors: Lamichhane Shobha Kanta
Published: June 2010

Anisotropic KOH etch rate of silicon is found to vary with thermal agitation along withcrystal plane orientation. In this work, experimental results of etch rate is found with theirunusual values of activation energy along different planes. The various sites that an atomcan occupy are not equivalent of their energy; some are more favorable to removal thanothers. In this paper attention is given to demonstrate thermal activation influences thebehavior of etching mechanism as well as surface morphology. Low-voltage contact modeatomic force microscopy (AFM) has been employed to analyze the morphology of theetched silicon surface at relevant temperature. With temperature evolution the width of theforbidden energy gap is going down and hence conductivity is rises.Keywords: Anisotropy; Etch rate; MEMS; SOI; AFM; Contact mode.DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i1.3314 Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6(1) 2010, pp79-88
Study of Scrap Waste in Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Luitel Kishor P , Khanal Sanjay Nath
Published: June 2010

Scrap wastes are the wastes which are the part of the solid waste, segregated andtaken further for reusing and recycling from the mixed waste. This scrap waste iscalled the Kabadi Waste in Nepal. The objective of this study is to identify the scrapwaste material and assess collection and business activity of scrap waste generatedwith in Kathmandu Valley. Direct observations, formal and informal discussion, fieldstudy with questionnaire were used for data acquisition. 33 random samples, out of178 scrap shop were selected for study. During the period of this study waste fromtransfer station was not allowed to collect by outsiders except by the employed personof the municipality. The composition of scrap waste consisted of 32.49% glasses,23.89% papers, 22.65% plastics and others (metals, textile, leather and rubber)20.97%. Among those reusable material consisted of 38.96% and 44.77% wasrecyclable materials; remaining could be either recycled or reused. 41% of scrapwaste collection was done through door to door by cycle hawker. 53% of the scrapwaste was found recycled or reuse in Nepal. Similarly, 45% of scrap dealersprocessed scrap for further recycling. 36% of the Kabadi shop has employed less than10 people for the waste collection. Now, people from lower casts were also foundinvolved in this business. This study clearly indicates the significance of scrap wastewhich is a part of Municipal Solid Waste.Keywords: Solid Waste; Recycle; Reuse; Trade of Secondary Material; Scrap; Kabadi.DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i1.3319 Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6(1) 2010, pp116-122
Access to and Control over Household Resources: A Consistency Check Using Gender Analysis and Household Survey Data
Authors: Devkota D
Published: June 2010

A study was conducted during 1998 covering three Village Development Committees (VDCs) ofChitwan district, Nepal, to examine the consistency of results if carried out independently usingformal and informal methods of information collection. Gender analysis (access and controlprofiles), and a face-to-face household survey (n = 123 households) were employed for thispurpose. Gender differences in access to and control over household resources was studied.Results showed a consistent response from both household survey and gender analysis for mostof the parameters studied, such as access to agriculture extension and veterinary services,participation in training, and community work. Gender response for control over resources, suchas income from small animals was also similar from both methods. However, some of theparameters were not consistent in response. For example, there was no participation of women incontrol over income from cash crops and cereal crops and large animals as strongly indicated bygender analysis, which was not visible in the case of household survey. This raises a questionabout the reliability of using only one approach of information collection for rural developmentresearch. On the basis of these results, we suggest a combine approach of quantitative andqualitative methods of data collection, which could be more reliable, informative andappropriate. The use of multiple methods also allows the researcher to cross-reference in order tovalidate the trustworthiness of information.Key words: Gender analysis; household survey; triangulationDOI: 10.3126/narj.v7i0.1875Nepal Agriculture Research Journal Vol.7 2006 pp.98-102
TREBILCOCK'S HERESY
Authors: Fiss Owen
Published: June 2010

Michael Trebilcock is passionately committed to improving the lives of the poor. As part of this project, he has written extensively on the effort to bolster the rule of law in developing countries and to improve the legal institutions found in these countries. Through an analysis of his recent book on this subject, Rule of Law Reform and Development (written with Ron Daniels), this essay examines Trebilcock's method and philosophic orientation and shows how his moral sensibilities have led him to depart from the classic tenets of law and economics and to open new vistas for this branch of legal analysis.
Parallel Myths, Popular Maps
Authors: Dietschy Paul , Ranc David , Sonntag Albrecht
Published: June 2010

Although history textbooks are highly revealing sources of what is considered worthy of being included in collective memory, they only tell half the story. The study of the non-official “parallel pantheons” of popular culture also contribute significantly to understanding patterns of perception and self-perception as well as mental representations of “Europe.” For more than a century, soccer, Europe's most widely shared social practice, has contributed to shaping perceptions of what can be encompassed under the term “Europe.” This article focuses on the “popular maps” of Europe that soccer has drawn over the last half-century and hints at the myths of cultural commonality that underpin them. It appears that while soccer represents a somewhat ambiguous metaphor for contemporary Europe, it can also supply interesting insights into the emergence of horizontal bonds between Europeans.
Seizures in patients with glioma treated with phenytoin and levetiracetam
Authors: Merrell Ryan T. , Anderson S. Keith , Meyer Fredric B. , Lachance Daniel H.
Published: June 2010

Object

Second-generation antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are increasingly used in the care of patients with glioma. There is little data on how this practice compares with the use of traditional AEDs in this population. This noninferiority analysis compares seizure outcomes and side effects in patients with glioma treated with phenytoin and levetiracetam monotherapy.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of 500 consecutive patients with glioma who were treated in clinical trials from 2001 to 2008 at 3 Mayo Clinic campuses. To be eligible for the study, these patients had to have had at least 1 clinical seizure and to have undergone follow-up for at least 6 months. Seizure outcomes, defined by the occurrence of a second seizure, time to second seizure, and seizure frequency, along with AED side effects, were compared between cohorts treated with phenytoin or levetiracetam

Results

Seventy-six patients were identified, 25 treated with phenytoin and 51 with levetiracetam. Sixty-four percent of the patients had a Grade 4 astrocytoma. There was no difference in seizure outcome between the phenytoin and levetiracetam groups when comparing time to second seizure (p = 0.584), second seizure rates (p = 0.561), and average seizures per month (p = 0.776). When adjusting for age, sex, type of seizure, type of glioma, and dosage using univariate and multivariate models, there were no differences between the treatment groups and none of these covariates were statistically significant for explaining the second seizure rates between treatment groups (all p values > 0.05). The incidence of side effects in the levetiracetam group was 6% versus 20% in the phenytoin group (p = 0.106). Additionally, 36% of the patients in the phenytoin group had dose adjustments unrelated to breakthrough seizures compared with only 10% in the levetiracetam group (p = 0.010)

Conclusions

In this study, patients with glioma treated with levetiracetam and phenytoin had similar seizure control. Patients treated with levetiracetam experienced fewer side effects and required fewer nonseizure-related dose adjustments than patients treated with phenytoin. Levetiracetam is a safe, effective, and preferred alternative for seizure management in patients with glioma.
Intraoperative computed tomography registration and electromagnetic neuronavigation for transsphenoidal pituitary surgery: accuracy and time effectiveness
Authors: Eboli Paula , Shafa Bob , Mayberg Marc
Published: June 2010

Object

The authors assessed the feasibility, anatomical accuracy, and cost effectiveness of frameless electromagnetic (EM) neuronavigation in conjunction with portable intraoperative CT (iCT) registration for transsphenoidal adenomectomy (TSA).

Methods

A prospective database was established for data obtained in 208 consecutive patients who underwent TSA in which the iCT/EM navigation technique was used. Data were compared with those acquired in a retrospective cohort of 65 consecutive patients in whom fluoroscope-assisted TSA had been performed by the same surgeon. All patients in both groups underwent transnasal removal of pituitary adenomas or neuroepithelial cysts, using identical surgical techniques with an operating microscope. In the iCT/EM technique–treated cases, a portable iCT scan was obtained immediately prior to surgery for registration to the EM navigation system, which did not require rigid head fixation. Preexisting (nonnavigation protocol) MR imaging studies were fused with the iCT scans to enable 3D navigation based on MR imaging data. The accuracy of the navigation system was determined in the first 50 iCT/EM cases by visual concordance of the navigation probe location to 5 preselected bony landmarks. For all patients in both cohorts, total operating room time, incision-to-closure time, and relative costs of imaging and surgical procedures were determined from hospital records.

Results

In every case, iCT registration was successful and preoperative MR images were fused to iCT scans without affecting navigation accuracy. There was 100% concordance between probe tip location and predetermined bony loci in the first 50 cases involving the iCT/EM technique. Total operating room time was significantly less in the iCT/EM cases (mean 108.9 ± 24.3 minutes [208 patients]) compared with the fluoroscopy group (mean 121.1 ± 30.7 minutes [65 patients]; p < 0.001). Similarly, incision-to-closure time was significantly less for the iCT/EM cases (mean 61.3 ± 18.2 minutes) than for the fluoroscopy cases (mean 71.75 ± 19.0 minutes; p < 0.001). Relative overall costs for iCT/EM technique and intraoperative C-arm fluoroscopy were comparable; increased costs for navigation equipment were offset by savings in operating room costs for shorter procedures.

Conclusions

The use of iCT/MR imaging–guided neuronavigation for transsphenoidal surgery is a time-effective, cost-efficient, safe, and technically beneficial technique.
Neurosurgical rotations or clerkships in US medical schools
Authors: Fox Benjamin D. , Amhaz Hassan H. , Patel Akash J. , Fulkerson Daniel H. , Suki Dima , Jea Andrew , Sawaya Raymond E.
Published: June 2010

Object

Medical student exposure to neurosurgery is limited. To improve the educational interactions between neurosurgeons and medical students as well as neurosurgical medical student rotations or clerkships (NSCs) we must first understand the current status.

Methods

Two questionnaires were sent, one to every neurosurgery course coordinator or director at each US neurosurgery residency program (99 questionnaires) and one to the associated parent medical school dean's office (91 questionnaires), to assess the current status of NSCs and the involvement of neurosurgeons at their respective institutions.

Results

We received responses from 86 (87%) of 99 neurosurgery course coordinators or directors and 64 (70%) of 91 medical school deans' offices. Most NSCs do not have didactic lectures (53 [62%] of 86 NSCs), provide their medical students with a syllabus or educational handouts (53 [62%] of 86), or have a recommended/required textbook (77 [90%] of 86). The most common method of evaluating students in NSCs is a subjective performance evaluation. Of 64 medical school deans, 38 (59%) felt that neurosurgery should not be a required rotation. Neurosurgical rotations or clerkships are primarily offered to students in their 4th year of medical school, which may be too late for appropriate timing of residency applications. Only 21 (33%) of 64 NSCs offer neurosurgery rotations to 3rd-year students.

Conclusions

There is significant room for improvement in the neurosurgeon-to–medical student interactions in both the NSCs and during the didactic years of medical school.
An Examination of AC/HVDC Power Circuits for Interconnecting Bulk Wind Generation with the Electric Grid
Authors: Ludois Daniel , Venkataramanan Giri
Published: June 2010

The application of high voltage dc (HVDC) transmission for integrating large scale and/or off-shore wind generation systems with the electric grid is attractive in comparison to extra high voltage (EHV) ac transmission due to a variety of reasons. While the technology of classical current sourced converters (CSC) using thyristors is well established for realization of large HVDC systems, the technology of voltage sourced converters (VSC) is emerging to be an alternative approach, particularly suitable for multi-terminal interconnections. More recently, a more modular scheme that may be termed ‘bridge of bridge’ converters (BoBC) has been introduced to realize HVDC systems. While all these three approaches are functionally capable of realizing HVDC systems, the converter power circuit design trade-offs between these alternatives are not readily apparent. This paper presents an examination of these topologies from the point of view of power semiconductor requirements, reactive component requirements, operating losses, fault tolerance, multi-terminal operation, modularity, complexity, etc. Detailed analytical models will be used along with a benchmark application to develop a comparative evaluation of the alternatives that maybe used by wind energy/bulk transmission developers for performing engineering trade-off studies.
Amplified Spontaneous Emission Properties of Semiconducting Organic Materials
Authors: Calzado Eva M. , Boj Pedro G. , Díaz-García María A.
Published: June 2010

This paper aims to review the recent advances achieved in the field of organic solid-state lasers with respect to the usage of semiconducting organic molecules and oligomers in the form of thin films as active laser media. We mainly focus on the work performed in the last few years by our research group. The amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) properties, by optical pump, of various types of molecules doped into polystyrene films in waveguide configuration, are described. The various systems investigated include N,N´-bis(3-methylphenyl)-N,N´-diphenylbenzidine (TPD), several perilenediimide derivatives (PDIs), as well as two oligo-phenylenevinylene derivatives. The ASE characteristics, i.e., threshold, emission wavelength, linewidth, and photostability are compared with that of other molecular materials investigated in the literature.
Preparation and Physicochemical Properties of the Complex of Naringenin with Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Wen Jiping , Liu Benguo , Yuan Erdong , Ma Yuxiang , Zhu Yongyi
Published: June 2010

In this study a complex of naringenin with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) was prepared to improve the hydrophilicity of naringenin. The physicochemical properties of the complex were analyzed by ultraviolet-visible spectrometry (UV), infrared spectrometry (IR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The result showed that naringenin had been molecularly dispersed in the HP-β-CD matrix, not forming a new compound and HPLC analysis showed that the solubility of naringenin in water was enhanced from 4.38 μg/mL to 1,272.31 μg/mL.
Monitoring Global Croplands with Coarse Resolution Earth Observations: The Global Agriculture Monitoring (GLAM) Project
Authors: Becker-Reshef Inbal , Justice Chris , Sullivan Mark , Vermote Eric , Tucker Compton , Anyamba Assaf , Small Jen , Pak Ed , Masuoka Ed , Schmaltz Jeff , Hansen Matthew , Pittman Kyle , Birkett Charon , Williams Derrick , Reynolds Curt , Doorn Bradley
Published: June 2010

In recent years there has been a dramatic increase in the demand for timely, comprehensive global agricultural intelligence. Timely information on global crop production is indispensable for combating the growing stress on the world’s crop production and for securing both short-term and long-term stable and reliable supply of food. Global agriculture monitoring systems are critical to providing this kind of intelligence and global earth observations are an essential component of an effective global agricultural monitoring system as they offer timely, objective, global information on croplands distribution, crop development and conditions as the growing season progresses. The Global Agriculture Monitoring Project (GLAM), a joint NASA, USDA, UMD and SDSU initiative, has built a global agricultural monitoring system that provides the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) with timely, easily accessible, scientifically-validated remotely-sensed data and derived products as well as data analysis tools, for crop-condition monitoring and production assessment. This system is an integral component of the USDA’s FAS Decision Support System (DSS) for agriculture. It has significantly improved the FAS crop analysts’ ability to monitor crop conditions, and to quantitatively forecast crop yields through the provision of timely, high-quality global earth observations data in a format customized for FAS alongside a suite of data analysis tools. FAS crop analysts use these satellite data in a ‘convergence of evidence’ approach with meteorological data, field reports, crop models, attaché reports and local reports. The USDA FAS is currently the only operational provider of timely, objective crop production forecasts at the global scale. These forecasts are routinely used by the other US Federal government agencies as well as by commodity trading companies, farmers, relief agencies and foreign governments. This paper discusses the operational components and new developments of the GLAM monitoring system as well as the future role of earth observations in global agricultural monitoring.
Cairo’s Contested Garbage: Sustainable Solid Waste Management and the Zabaleen’s Right to the City
Authors: Fahmi Wael , Sutton Keith
Published: June 2010

Over the decades, the Zabaleen, the traditional waste (garbage) collectors of Cairo, have created what is arguably one of the world’s most efficient and sustainable resource-recovery and waste-recycling systems. Yet the continuation of this intricate relationship between community, environment and livelihood is jeopardized by the official privatization of municipal solid waste (MSW) services through contracts with technology-intensive multinational corporations which threatens the sustainability of the garbage collectors’ communities by removing access to their chief economic asset, waste or garbage. The situation is exacerbated by an official policy of moving the Zabaleen and their MSW sorting, recovery, trading and recycling activities further out of the city, on the grounds that this will turn their neighbourhoods into cleaner and healthier living environments. The consumption of Cairo’s sites of MSW collection and sorting open new socio-political spaces for conflict between multi-national companies and the Zabaleen’s traditional system. This is further indicated in the way Cairo’s waste materials have been subjected to new claims and conflict, as they are seen as a ‘commodity’ by global capital entrepreneurs and multi-national corporations, and as a source of ‘livelihood’ by the disadvantaged and marginalised Zabaleen population.
Improved Filtration Technology for Pathogen Reduction in Rural Water Supplies
Authors: Tellen Valentine , Nkeng George , Dentel Steven
Published: June 2010

Intermittent bio-sand filtration (BSF) is a low-cost process for improving water quality in rural households. This study addresses its two drawbacks: flow limitations requiring excessive waiting, and inadequate purification when high flows are imposed. Two modifications were examined: increasing the sand’s effective size, and adding zero-valent iron (ZVI) into the media as a disinfectant. After 65 days, percent reductions in total coliform, fecal coliform, and fecal streptococci averaged 98.9% for traditional BSF and 99% for the improved BSF. Both modifications showed statistically significant improvements. Increased sand size and ZVI addition can counter the drawbacks of traditional BSF.
ENVIRONMENTAL IONIZING RADIATION DISTRIBUTION IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Chad-Umoren Yehuwdah E. , Briggs-Kamara Margaret A.
Published: June 2010

The distribution of ionizing radiation in Rivers State in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria is studied on the premise that the state ‐ wide distribution of oil and gas operations leads to a homogeneous ionizing radiation environment. The state is sub divided into three self‐ consistent sub environments of an upland college campus environment, a rural riverine environment and an industrial sub zone environment. Available data give a mean dose equivalent of 0.745+ 0.085 mSv/yr (upland campus environment), 0.690+0.170 mSv/yr (rural riverine communities) and 1.270+0.087 mSv/yr (industrial zone) indicating an inhomogeneous radiation profile. The differences may be due to variations in levels of industrial activities and local geological peculiarities. Health implications are also examined.

Santrauka

Jonizuojančiosios spinduliuotes pasiskirstymas Rivers valstijoje Nigerio deltos regione, Nigerijoje, yra nagrinejamas remiantis prielaida, kad valstijos mastu naftos ir duju veiklos pletra gali tureti itakos aplinkos jonizuojančiosios spinduliuotes homogenizacijai. Tirti pasirinktos trys būdingos aplinkos vietos: universiteto teritorija, esanti vasltijos aukštumoje, kaimo paupio teritorijos bei pramonine aplinka. Gauti rezultatai parode, kad vidutines dozes ekvivalentai atitinkamai pasirinktose vietose yra 0,745±0,085 mSv/yr, 0,690±0,170 mSv/yr ir l,270±0087 mSv/yr. Rezultatai paneige prielaida apie galima aplinkos jonizuojančiosios spinduliuotes homogenizacija. Šiems skirtumams itakos gali tureti nevienodi pramonines veiklos mastai bei vietiniai geologiniai ypatumai. Taip pat darbe skiriama demesio jonizacijos reikšmingumui sveikatai.

Резюме

Распределение ионизирующего излучения в штате Риверс региона дельты Нила в Нигерии анализируется на основании предпосылки о том, что расширение деятельности по добыче нефти и газа в масштабе штата может оказать влияние на гомогенизацию ионизирующего излучения в окружающей среде. Для исследований были подобраны три наиболее характерных места окружающей среды: территория университета, находящаяся на высоком месте штата, сельские территории вблизи реки и промышленная среда. Полученные результаты показали следующие эквиваленты средних доз в выбранных местах: 0,745±0,085 mSv/yr, 0,690±0,170 mSv/yr и 1,270± 0,087 mSv/yr и опровергли предпосылку о возможной гомогенизации ионизирующего излучения в окружающей среде. Разница в результатах может быть объяснена разными масштабами промышленной деятельности и местными геологическими особенностями. Также обращено внимание на значение ионизации для здоровья людей.
Beta-Blocker Therapy and Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: A Case Report
Authors: Müller C. , Mänhardt L. B. , Willaschek C. , Schneider E. M. , Stuth E. A. , Buchhorn R.
Published: June 2010

Objective. The aim of this paper is to describe a fatal case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in a patient with severe heart failure, who was treated with low-dose propranolol.Patient and Interventions. We report on a 7-month-old boy with Downs syndrome who was born with an unbalanced, left dominant atrioventricular septal defect and aortic coarctation. Despite coarctation repair and pulmonary artery banding he developed intractable heart failure and fever of unknown origin. Since he remained in heart failure he received a trial of low-dose propranolol to stabilize his cardiopulmonary status, which resulted in unexpected immunomodulatory effects.Measurements and Main Result. Immunoactivation was evidenced by high concentrations of procalcitonin, soluble CD 25, tumor necrosis factor , and interleukin 6 and 8. Propranolol resulting in hepatic compromise as indicated by high lactate dehydrogenase and alanine aminotransferase levels. A therapeutic switch from propranolol to the -receptor blocker metoprolol appeared to be instrumental in hemodynamic improvement and allowed discharge from hospital. However, the infant ultimately died from secondary inflammatory reactivation and intractable pulmonary obstructive disease. The autopsy results revealed HLH.Conclusion. Our case describes HLH secondary to heart failure and Downs syndrome. In this highly activated inflammatory state the beneficial hemodynamic effects of propranolol may be accompanied by immunomodulatory effects and the risk of acute liver failure. HLH occurs with a distinct pathophysiology, and specific treatment might be mandatory to increase the chance of survival.
A psychological perspective on god-belief as a source of well-being and meaning
Authors: Van der Merwe E. Karen , Van Eeden Chrizanne , Van Deventer Hans J.M.
Published: June 2010

This article reports on a qualitative exploration of the well-being and meaning that second- and third-generation Christians from an African context experience because of their integration of religion in their life and being. A textured, integrated tapestry is created of the participants’ understanding of God (God-concept), experience of their relationship with God (God-image) and understanding of life as coloured by their belief systems. The contribution of their God-belief to their sense of meaning and psychological well-being frames the tapestry of this article.
Acts for today’s missional church
Authors: Niemandt Cornelius J.P.
Published: June 2010

This article investigated the challenges associated with being a missional church in an everchanging world and possible patterns to live missionally in new contexts. The need for Christian missions to be radically contextual in facing up to these changes provided the basis for this study to build on the importance of context and the ways in which the early church in Acts reinvented itself continually in facing up to new challenges, opportunities, peoples, cultures and questions. The way in which the faith community emerged as a church when it became aware of its boundary-breaking mission was explored by using the seven phases in the development of the mission of the church, as identified by Bevans and Schroeder in their groundbreaking theology of missions. By reflecting on these seven phases, this article formulated patterns for a missional church.
A novel planar optode setup for concurrent oxygen and light field imaging: Application to a benthic phototrophic community
Authors: Fischer Jan P. , Wenzhöfer Frank
Published: June 2010

A novel high resolution planar optode (HiPO) for two dimensional oxygen and light‐field imaging is presented. Optical cross‐talk effects, limiting the precision and resolution of conventional planar optode setups, could be strongly reduced by the use of a fiber optic faceplate as sensing window. The new device, therefore, allows for accurate calculation of oxygen fluxes and respiration rates from oxygen concentration images, especially for measurements on small scales. In addition, the setup can be used to estimate the distribution of scalar irradiance within illuminated sediments or mats, thus directly linking local light availability to oxygen dynamics at high resolution. Irradiance values obtained with the HiPO were found to be in good agreement with scalar irradiance microsensor measurements in sandy sediment, and a spatial resolution of ~120 µm could be achieved. The performance of the HiPO for oxygen measurements was tested experimentally and the theoretical limit of spatial (~100 µm) and temporal (~10 s) resolution, governed by oxygen diffusion within the sensing layer, was determined by mathematical modeling. Rates of primary production and respiration in sandy sediments were calculated from the transient oxygen concentrations after perturbations in light condition showing a highly patchy distribution on submillimeter scale. These heterogeneities were clearly correlated to local irradiance within the sediment. Spatial correlations of photosynthesis and respiration were strongly dependent on incident irradiance.
Predictors of Gastrostomy Placement and Dependence in Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients Treated with Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Har-El Gady , McCoul Edward D , Sundaram Krishnamurthi
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Treatment of oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) with primary chemoradiotherapy (CRT) may necessitate placement of a gastrostomy tube (GT). We sought to identify factors that may predict GT placement and dependence.

Materials and methods

A retrospective review of 61 consecutive patients receiving primary CRT for OPC over a 10-year period at a tertiary referral center. Patients with prior head and neck malignancy, distant metastasis, incomplete treatment course, or inadequate follow-up were excluded. Forty-four patients were included for analysis.

Results

Sixty-one percent of tumors were located in the tonsil and 62% were stage IV disease at presentation. Complete response to CRT occurred in 36 patients, among whom GT placement was more likely when weight loss occurred before the start of CRT than after CRT (p= 0.028). Continued GT dependence was more likely in patients with GT placement after the start of CRT (p= 0.019). Multivariate analysis showed significant associations of GT placement with post-treatment dysphagia and mucositis. Advanced tumor stage was a significant predictor of GT dependence.

Conclusions

Prophylactic GT placement may be advisable in patients receiving CRT for OPC who have pretreatment weight loss. Conversely, GT may be withheld from asymptomatic patients.
B-mode and Power Doppler Ultrasound in Adnexal Masses
Authors: Ajossa Silvia , Paoletti Anna Maria , Garau Nicoletta , Mais Valerio , Piras Bruno , Silvetti Enrico , Melis Gian Benedetto , Angioni Stefano , Angiolucci Marco , Pilloni Monica
Published: June 2010

Adnexal masses can be classified in ovarian, paraovarian or tubal. In the present review we analyzed the diagnostic performance of transvaginal ultrasonography in identifying simple ultrasonographic findings of benign adnexal pathology but also the role of color Doppler in the differential diagnoses between benign and malignant masses and in the preoperative triage. Because of many kinds of adnexal masses have usually a typical ultrasound appearance, the results of the studies present in literature showed a good and sufficient diagnostic accuracy. Unfortunately some cases with uncertain findings are present and in these cases the addition of color Doppler can be useful as demonstrated by several authors. Using the location of flow evaluated using color Doppler as main parameter a mass should be graded as malignant if flow is shown centrally within the excrescences or solid areas. The same approach should be used to triage the patients with adnexal masses to the most appropriate surgical approach with an increase of less invasive surgery.
Cervical Length, Volume and Flow Indices During Pregnancy by Transvaginal 2D and 3D Ultrasonography
Authors: Yig¢iter Alin Basşgül , Kavak Zehra Nesşe
Published: June 2010

Recently, many researches suggested that 2D US is insufficient for defining the true sagittal plane of uterine cervix. When the cervix is bent or curved, it is difficult to get a perfect sagittal section but rather mid oblique image by 2D US. Only 3D US allows us to evaluate the cervix in the coronal section and reproduce images in many cut. Coronal section of the cervix is especially useful in evaluating cervical funneling. Diagnosing internal orifice dilatation, asymmetrical, flattened or fissure-like cervices is possible. 3D US favors a more detailed study of cervical anatomy and biometry than 2D US. Cervical evaluation by 3D multiplanar sections can be added in the screening for preterm labor.

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging combined with power Doppler, theoretically provides the possibility to assess the volume and quantify the power Doppler signal in the whole target organ, whereas, information from 2D US on vascularization and blood flow is restricted to a single subjectively chosen 2D plane. The measurement of cervical indices is reproducible and may be used in clinical practice and research to determine the changes of the cervical morphology and vascularization in pregnancy. Consequently, further studies of 3D ultrasound imaging of the cervix in pregnancy and clinical correlations to obstetrical events are required for better understanding the physiology and functional pathophysiology of the cervix during pregnancy.
Study of Fetal Neurodevelopment in Multiple Pregnancies
Authors: Azumendi Guillermo , Perva Sejfulah , Marton Ingrid , Al-Noobi Madeeha
Published: June 2010

According to many reports multiple pregnancies compared to singelton have a 5-10 fold increased risk for CP and some of increased risk is due to the risk of preterm delivery, no mater whether, it mono or dizygotic conception. In those cases CP is most probably complication of peripartal periventricular hemorrhage or leukomalacia. Known fact about twins is that the lower is the gestational age at the time of delivery, the probability that they are monozygotic is greater. Monochorionic multiple pregnancies and feto-fetal hemodynamic transfusion instability are leading to cerebral ischemia. For all of mentionable reasons monozygotic multiple pregnancies have a greater risk of cerebral impairment.

CP in an apparently singleton pregnancy could be associated with a “vanishing” twin phenomenon. There are reports that some of the congenital anomalies in apparently singleton pregnancies may be associated with the unrecognized or unrecorded loss of a co-twin.

It has been established that ART conceptions are at a greater risk of CP because of the greater risk of preterm delivery. There have been many attempts to minimize CP prevalence by reduction of number of fetuses in a multifetal ART pregnancy but without affect, most probably because the majority of ART conceptions are dizygotic.
Pre- and Postnatal Features of Hydrometrocolpos in One Fetus of a Dizygotic Twin Pregnancy
Authors: Troyano-Luque Juan Mario , de la Rosa Margarita Álvarez , Padilla Ana Isabel , Ces Laura , Martínez José María , Puerto Bienvenido , Gratacós Eduardo , Mercé Luis Tadeo
Published: June 2010

A female fetus of a dizygotic pregnancy presented with a retrovesical cystic mass at 16 weeks. Severe and recurrent fetal ascitis developed at 25 weeks. Pre-eclampsia, probably due to mirror syndrome, precipitated fetal extraction, which led to severe prematurity complications and neonatal death. Necropsy showed: cloacal anomaly, anal atresia, ambiguous genitalia and bicornuate uterus.
Clinical Simulation in Modern Teaching and Training of Sonography in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Akins Ralitsa , Ho Hoi
Published: June 2010

Advances in computer technology, hardware and software have made ultrasound a diagnostic imaging technique of choice in certain areas of medicine or specialties such as obstetrics and gynecology. In teaching and training of obs/gyne ultrasonography, medical educators can utilize different forms of clinical simulators: traditional standardized patients and standard ultrasound diagnostic equipment, computer-based simulators, ultrasound simulators or ultrasound simulators with manikins. The popularity of a simulator is determined not only by its features, ease of use and cost, but also by its available learning modules and applications.

Technology in ultrasound and computers are rapidly advancing in enhancing the quality and miniaturizing ultrasound machines. Portable and handheld ultrasound equipments are quickly becoming indispensable diagnostic instruments in different health care settings especially the emergency rooms and physician offices. Concerns, however, remain related to the lack of competence of health care providers in using and interpreting results of ultrasound studies, and the needs to standardize the training in ultrasonography. It is important to have access to one or more ultrasound simulators; however, it is even more important to establish and integrate fundamental structure of training ultrasonography into the main training curriculum of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate medical education.
The Physiology of Pregnancy Illustrated with Ultrasound Images
Authors: Janssen Herbert F , Osborne David L
Published: June 2010

Pregnancy is the culmination of many unexplained anatomical, physiological, and biochemical processes. While many aspects of pregnancy remain vague, ultrasound imaging techniques have provided a clearer understanding of many aspects of the process. This has included a more complete description of the ovulation process and implantation of the blastocyst into the endometrium. Ultrasound imaging using 3-D and 4-D capabilities has also provided a dynamic view of fetal development. A clearer and more complete description of fetal circulation is now available. In the hands of trained individuals, ultrasound techniques have captured fetal heart images revealing both normal and abnormal development. As the techniques improve, this progression of knowledge will also increase our ability to understand the entire reproductive process.
Embryology of the Human Brain
Authors: Shiota Kohei
Published: June 2010

In this paper, the process of CNS development in human embryos and fetuses is described. The primordium of the nervous system appears as early as during the third week after fertilization, but its differentiation and maturation require a considerably long period of time until after birth. Therefore, the developing brain is vulnerable to various kinds of deleterious environmental effects during the preand perinatal life. This paper aims at giving an overview of the major organogenesis of the brain in human embryos and fetuses.
From Neonatal to Fetal Neurology: Some Clues for Interpreting Fetal Findings
Authors: Gosselin Julie , Amiel-Tison Claudine
Published: June 2010

As early as possible, neonatologists try to identify neonates at risk of unfavorable neurodevelopmental outcomes. They are fairly reliable in predicting very poor outcomes as well as optimal outcomes. However, within these two extremes, the prediction still remains a challenge. Immaturity of the neonatal brain constitutes a limit in itself. During decades with the growing knowledge of brain development, many methods have been developed for neurological assessment of the neonate. Neither of them applied alone was perfect in terms of clinical applicability, sensitivity, reproducibility and specificity.

The motor function is the first to provide the clinician with clues. Higher functions, in particular language and other cognitive functions, will develop later. However, recent researchers give credit to the brainstem for controlling exceedingly rudimentary learning-related cognitive-like activity. At present, the anticipation of late emerging developmental disabilities remains difficult even though early motor dysfunction has repeatedly been associated with a higher risk of intellectual or other learning disabilities. Despite our modest recent contribution to the domain of prediction, further studies on welldefined high risk populations with rigorous methodology that aim to demonstrate these links are still needed. Besides neurological observations, research is in process of including behavioral and stress/ reactivity measures; feasibility and benefits have to be demonstrated.

At present, fetal neurology is supported by neonatal neurology. Obstetricians are wise enough to take from both methods described above the elements they are able to transpose to fetal life. A comparative table of neonatal and fetal assessment is to be found elsewhere. As for neonatal neurology, the future of fetal neurology will have to rely on short- and long-term follow-up studies to define the predictive value of the chosen items. Obstetricians will have to be as patient as pediatricians, to work, step by step, towards defining optimality and impairment. They will have to be very careful when deciding to interrupt pregnancies; at the time being, such decisions are restricted to cases of very severe impairment. In line with the spectrum described above, they can expect to find more cases with moderate to mild abnormalities than cases with severe ones. However the most pleasant aspect for the echographer is to check fetal optimality. Just as a newborn infant categorized as at risk of brain damage is competent enough to demonstrate CNS integrity from birth, a high risk fetus will soon be competent enough to demonstrate CNS integrity before birth.
Maturation of Cerebral Connections and Fetal Behavior
Authors: Judas Milos , Kostovic Ivica
Published: June 2010

Modern imaging methods enabled systematic studies of fetal behaviour as well as a continuation of that behaviour in prematurely born infants (for a review, see 1-4). The following question represents a great challenge for human developmental neurobiologist: what is the neurobiological basis of various behavioural patterns observed in human fetuses and preterm infants?2 First of all, it is essential to determine whether there is an early spontaneous (nonsensory- driven) activity and to what extent the cerebrum and the cerebral cortex may be involved. In addition, it is necessary to describe for each successive phase, the developmental status of neuronal circuitry and synaptic organization.

In this review, we present evidence on the development of cortical connections during different phases of fetal development and evaluate a possible functional significance of cerebral involvement.
Ultrasound Imaging in Animal Models of Human Disease—Is it a Step Toward Early Diagnosis in Humans?
Authors: Abramowicz Jacques S , Barua Animesh , Bitterman Pincas , Bahr Janice M , Sheiner Eyal , Luborsky Judith L
Published: June 2010

Despite extensive research, cancer of the ovaries remains a major medical problem. The main reason is delay in diagnosis and hence, poor prognosis. This is due to issues in screening and a lack of specific symptoms in early disease. Yearly ultrasound examination and measurement of serum CA125 remain the recommended method despite less than ideal results. Animal research plays a major role in medical research, especially in cancer. Many publications describe the use of ultrasound in cancer research in a large variety of animals. Bmode, spectral and color Doppler have been employed and, more recently, ultrasound contrast agents, both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. We have demonstrated that ultrasound can be used to detect early ovarian cancer in the egg-laying chicken. The major advantage is that chickens develop spontaneous ovarian cancer, with a tumor histology that is identical to humans. Furthermore, chickens with ovarian tumors have serum anti-tumor antibodies similar to humans. In addition, the first sign that the egg-laying chicken is going to develop cancer is that it stops laying eggs prematurely.* Thus, a strong biological sign exists to categorize the chicken in a very high risk group, allowing sequential examinations at very close intervals. We have also shown that ultrasound contrast agents may be used for visualization of ovarian vascularity, a step, we hope, in the development of better methods for screening and early diagnosis.
Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction
Authors: Hajdu Julia , Harmath Ágnes , Pete Barbara , Zoltan Papp
Published: June 2010

Lower urinary tract obstruction is defined as partial or complete obstruction of the urinary tract at the level of the urethra and the bladder. The posterior urethral valves are the most common cause, 9 percent of the fetal uropathies. The incidence range is wide, because of different databases show different populations. The most severe obstructive uropathy is in patients with kidney damage, oligohydramnios and pulmonary insufficiency. If no prenatal intervention is performed, 45 percent of these patients die in the first 3 weeks of life and 25 percent have renal failure. In utero therapy is indicated to prevent renal damage and pulmonary hypoplasia in cases associated with progressive development of oligohydramnios. The treatment is usually limited to male fetuses with bladder outlet obstruction. The selection criteria (contraindications of fetal intervention) are: normal amniotic fluid volume, suggestion of nonobstructive dilatation of the urinary tract, sonographic evidence of renal cystic dysplasia, abnormal fetal urinary parameters, abnormal karyotype, presence of associated major congenital anomalies, fetal urinary parameters are above threshold. At the follow up after a prenatal intervention showed an apparent statistically significant improvement in perinatal survival with prenatal intervention relative to no intervention. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the proportions of survivors with normal renal function who underwent bladder drainage and those who did not. Improved perinatal survival was also suggested in those fetuses with a poor prognosis. A nonsignificant improvement in perinatal survival for those fetuses with a good prognosis was also seen.