bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuous Bupivacaine Infusion Post-Iliac Crest Bone Graft Harvesting in Pediatric Cleft Surgery: Role and Comparison with Ketorolac
Authors: Hayes J.A. , Forrest C.R. , Walsh W. , Pétroz G.C. , Adeli K. , Bissonnette B.
Published: November 2010

Objective

To investigate the use of intravenous ketorolac and iliac crest bupivacaine infusion in the management of iliac crest donor-site pain in the pediatric cleft population. The null hypothesis was there is no difference with respect to pain scores between ketorolac and iliac crest bupivacaine infusion as analgesic adjuncts to intravenous opioids.

Method

A total of 54 children and adolescents (27 boys, 27 girls) undergoing alveolar cleft repair or Le Fort I osteotomy were assigned randomly in a prospective, single-blinded fashion to one of three groups: intravenous ketorolac plus iliac crest normal saline infusion, intravenous ketorolac plus iliac crest bupivacaine infusion, or iliac crest bupivacaine infusion alone. Iliac crest infusions and ketorolac were administered for 48 hours or until discharge, whichever occurred first. All patients received morphine via a patient-controlled analgesia device.

Main outcome Measure(s)

Primary outcome was pain score, and secondary outcomes were morphine consumption and satisfaction scores.

Results

Pain scores, morphine consumption, and satisfaction scores were not significantly different among groups. Estimated costs were significantly higher for bupivacaine infusion than intravenous ketorolac.

Conclusions

Iliac crest donor-site pain is well managed in this patient population. Intravenous ketorolac and iliac crest bupivacaine infusion provide comparable analgesia for iliac crest bone graft donor-site pain in children and adolescents.
In Praise of Amateurism: A Friendly Critique of Moje's “Call for Change” in Secondary Literacy
Authors: Heller Rafael
Published: November 2010

In an October 2008JAALCommentary, Moje took issue with the teaching of generic reading strategies in the middle and high school content areas. She argued for teachers to provide “disciplinary literacy” instruction, focusing on the specific kinds of reading and writing that go on in content areas. The present article concurs with that argument to a point. However, the author questions Moje's use of the termdisciplinaryto describe the kinds of instruction that content area teachers provide—or should provide—at the secondary level. Middle and high school students are better served, the author concludes, by learning to read, write, and argue using relatively nonspecialized language.

[Notes. Find the original commentary by Elizabeth Moje, along with a link to an explanatory podcast, athttp:dx.doi.org10.1598JAAL.52.2.1. See also Moje's response to Heller in this issue athttp:dx.doi.org10.1598JAAL.54.4.5, and continuing discussion on Heller's blog athttp:literacyforamateurs.blogspot.com.]
Lexile Reading Growth as a Function of Starting Level in At‐Risk Middle School Students
Authors: Archer Laura E.
Published: November 2010

This study investigated average yearly reading growth norms of at‐risk middle school students as a function of start of year reading grade level. Data for this study were collected from an urban school in the western United States over five years and tracked the yearly growth of 2,485 seventh‐ and eighth‐grade students using a Lexile‐linked testing instrument. This population had a 97% poverty rate; 87% were minority status, and 75% were English learners. Results revealed a distinct pattern of growth. Kindergarten through second‐grade readers made the most Lexile growth, with first graders gaining the most. At third grade and higher, the growth dropped lower and lower. Also included is a discussion concerning significant growth by starting level, with implications for goal setting.
A Study of Thoughtful Literacy and the Motivation to Read
Authors: Applegate Anthony J. , Applegate Mary DeKonty
Published: November 2010

This study examined the motivation to read of children in grades two through six. All children in the study were strong in their literal comprehension of narrative text. Some were equally strong in their ability to respond thoughtfully to the text (Blue Group); others struggled to respond to questions requiring them to think about the implications of text (Red Group). The Blue Group was significantly more motivated to read than the Red Group, particularly in the value that they ascribed to reading. Significant differences in favor of Red Group females in the value of reading were not present in the Blue Group. The authors called for teachers to investigate the potential benefits of teaching children to approach reading as thoughtful literacy and to determine if that approach could slow the typical loss of reading motivation in the elementary school years.
Organizing Instruction for Struggling Readers in Tutorial Settings
Authors: Mokhtari Kouider , Hutchison Amy C. , Edwards Patricia A.
Published: November 2010

In this article, the authors suggest that many of the problems struggling readers encounter while reading stem from distinct yet fundamental sources of difficulty related to the types of text read (print or online), the task or activity readers engage in, and the sociocultural context of reading. The authors further argue that although these problems are multidimensional, they can and should be addressed simultaneously. Using a case scenario of a third‐grade struggling reader, the authors share guidelines with an example of how her tutor planned, organized, and monitored instruction in a one‐on‐one tutorial setting—here defined as a setting in which a single teacher or tutor, usually not the classroom teacher, plans and delivers instruction to one student. The authors anticipate that the insights shared will be helpful to professional educators, paraprofessionals, and volunteer or peer tutors who work with struggling readers in similar settings.
Welcoming Schools: Small Changes That Can Make a Big Difference
Authors: Padak Nancy , Rasinski Timothy V.
Published: November 2010

In this article, the authors offer small changes in home–school relationships that can make a big difference in family involvement in schools.
Information Book Read‐Alouds as Models for Second‐Grade Authors
Authors: Bradley Linda Golson , Donovan Carol A.
Published: November 2010

This article discusses the instructional practice of supporting second graders' information book writing with focused read‐alouds that include discussions of information book genre elements, features, and organizational structure. The authors present specific examples of instruction and discuss the resulting information book compositions by second‐grade authors that demonstrate for teachers how information book read‐alouds can support young writers' genre knowledge development.
Learning to Read: The Unofficial Scripts of Succeeders and Strugglers
Authors: Brown Tammy B.H.
Published: November 2010

Two successful and two struggling beginning readers were studied with the goal of understanding how beginning readers of varying ability levels make sense of instruction in learning to read. Through interviews, classroom observations, and the collection of artifacts from home and school, the author explored meanings constructed by the students about literacy and literacy learning. The findings suggest that standardizing the presentation of information does not neutralize the differences in students' meaning making. The findings raise questions that challenge current trends in instruction for beginning readers, particularly those who struggle.
Ask the Expert
Authors: Edwards Patricia A.
Published: November 2010

Patrica A. Edwards replies to questions posed via e‐mail or Facebook on the topic of assessment.
3‐D simulation of compound thin‐film transistors
Authors: Van Calster André , Vanfleteren Jan
Published: November 2010

Abstract— A 3‐D technology CAD (TCAD) tool for the numeric modeling of thin‐film compound transistors is described. The model takes into account the influence of different bulk doping levels due to the non‐stochiometric film composition as well as the influence of donor and acceptor boundary traps. Apart from the field effect, the temperature dependence of the thin‐film transistor (TFT) is also calculated. The TCAD tool successfully explains the behavior of thin CdSe TFTs and shows that the off‐current is determined by the grain‐boundary traps.
Influence of wavelength red‐shift on color‐rendering index and luminous efficacy of LEDs
Authors: Wang Qiong‐Hua , Yan Jin‐Ren , Li Lei , Li Da‐Hai , Zhang Jian‐De
Published: November 2010

Abstract—The peak wavelength of light‐emitting‐diodes(LEDs) shifts towards the longer wavelengths when the temperature of the LED chip increases. The color‐rendering index (CRI) and luminous efficacy may change with the peak wavelength of the LED, and it is not expected to do so when the LEDs are used in fields which require a high CRI and luminous efficacy. A mathematical model of the LED spectrum was used to analyze the influence of the wavelength shift on the CRI and luminous efficacy of three‐ and four‐chip‐packaged LEDs, respectively. The results show that the CRI decreases with the peak wavelengths shifting towards longer wavelength for both three‐ and four‐chip LEDs; especially, the CRI of the four‐chip LEDs decreases more for a green‐color wavelength shift than for other colors. The luminous efficacy increases with a green‐color wavelength shift and decreases with a red‐color wavelength shift.
Demonstration of a technological prototype of an active‐matrix BiNem liquid‐crystal display
Authors: Joly Stéphane , Thomas Patrick , Osterman Jesper , Simon Arnaud , Lallemant Sylvain , Faget Luc , Laffitte Jean‐Denis , Irzyk Michael , Madsen Louise , Angelé Jacques , Leblanc François , Martinot‐Lagarde Philippe
Published: November 2010

Abstract—The first implementation of active‐matrix addressing on a BiNem bistable nematic liquid‐crystal display has been demonstrated. Compared to previous passive‐matrix addressing, major improvements have been made for the bistable mode: a smoother image refreshment, shorter refreshing frame time compatible with that of high‐resolution e‐book displays, the use of a touch screen for interactive functions such as hand‐writing, a virtual keyboard, improved functionality for scrolling menus, partial refreshment,etc. On the same display but in the monostable mode, by using electrically controlled birefringence (ECB), the potential of displaying moving pictures at a rate of 25 images/sec, at an extended room temperature, has been demonstrated. In the ECB monostable mode, static images can be displayed down to −20°C. A new transflective single‐polarizer optical mode has been developed to optimize the indoor and outdoor readability of the display. By lowering the surface reflection and enhancing the panel transmission, a contrast ratio of 94:1 and a transmittance of 17% have been achieved.
Eye‐safety analysis of current laser‐based LCOS projection systems
Authors: Buckley Edward
Published: November 2010

Abstract— A laser safety analysis for liquid‐crystal—on—silicon (LCOS) based imaging projection systems utilizing laser light sources is presented. It is shown that a typical laser‐based imaging projector is capable of providing a D65 white‐balanced luminous flux in excess of 20 lm while remaining Class 1 eye safe. By considering a Class 2 classification, it is shown that the same architecture is capable of providing several hundred lumens, a performance level which could potentially be applicable to a new class of high‐brightness miniature projection systems.
Automatic mura detection based on thresholding the fused normalized first and second derivatives in four directions
Authors: Jamleh Hani , Li Tsung‐Yu , Wang Shen‐Zhi , Chen Chien‐Wen , Kuo Chia‐Chia , Wang Ko‐Shun , Chen Charlie Chung‐Ping
Published: November 2010

Abstract— The size of flat‐panel liquid‐crystal displays is getting larger; as a result, it is becoming harder to inspect for defects and may require a human visual inspector to judge the severity of the defects on the final product. Recently, mura phenomenon, which is defined as a visual blemish with non‐uniform shapes and boundaries, is becoming a serious unpleasant effect which needs to be detected and inspected in orderto standardize the LCD's quality. Hence, an automation process based on machine vision has proven to be a good choice to facilitate and stabilize the process. An effective general algorithm for detecting different types of mura defects with various contrast, shape, and direction, based on the fusion of the normalized magnitude of first‐ and second‐order derivative responses in four directions, is proposed. The experiments applied on various types of pseudo‐mura with different shapes show an efficient detection rate of more than 90%.
Performance of the efficacy enhancement layer using nano‐particles in PDPs
Authors: Nagano Shinichiro , Jang Sang‐Hun , Kang Jae‐Wook , Yu Yong‐Mi , Lee Chun‐Gyoo
Published: November 2010

Abstract— A nano‐particle dielectric layer was experimentally placed between a conventional dielectric layer and a MgO thin film. This greatly reduces the discharge current and enhances high luminous efficacy. The current reduction might reflect a capacitance reduction in the entire dielectric layer due to the extremely low permittivity of the nano‐particle layer which includes a large amount of space. The luminous efficacy is improved more than what is expected because of the reduction in capacitance. The layer affects the MgO film properties such as crystal growth size, orientation, cathode luminescence, and exo‐electron emission. As a result, it improves the statistical delay in addressing. This might be caused by the large crystal growth of MgO due to the surface roughness of the nano‐particle layer underneath. The particle size required to optimize the roughness of the large growth is about 10–50 nm. The rise in the discharge voltage accompanied by the nano‐particle layer insertion is improved when the layer is properly patterned. A reduction in luminance is prevented when it is patterned in narrow lines along the X—Y gaps while the improvement in address delay strongly depends on the areal ratio of the nano‐particle layer.
Organic wavelength‐converting‐film‐based hybrid planar white light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Kim Sung Wook , Yoo Hyoung Sun , Kwon Byoung‐Hwa , Kang Dong Seok , Suh Minwon , Jeon Duk Young
Published: November 2010

Abstract— In this study, organic wavelength‐converting films (WCFs) applied to InGaN blue LED‐based hybrid planar WLED has been fabricated. The organic dye layer in the WCF was formed between the upper and bottom polymer sheets by using a simple roll‐laminating technique. Subsequently, the hybrid planar WLEDs have been fabricated based upon these films. The luminous efficiency of green WCF‐based hybrid planar WLEDs with a single blue LED chip was 34.6 lm/W and that of red‐WCF‐assisted green WCF‐based hybrid planar WLEDs was 27.3 lm/W under 20 mA. The use of WCF to fabricate hybrid planar WLEDs showed better stability than that of directly coating organic color‐convergence materials (CCMs) on the LED chips. It only decreased to about 10% of the initial wavelength‐converting intensity after 1 hour of continual operation at 20 mA.
Preferred and maximally acceptable color gamut for reproducing natural image content
Authors: Murdoch Michael J. , Sekulovski Dragan , De Volder Robert , Heynderickx Ingrid
Published: November 2010

Abstract— With the development of wide‐gamut display technology, the need is clear for understanding the required size and shape of color gamut from the viewers' perspective. To that end, experiments were conducted to explore color‐gamut requirements based on viewers' preferred level of chroma enhancement of standard‐gamut images. Chroma preferences were measured for multiple hues using single‐hue images, and a corresponding hue‐dependent preferred chroma enhancement was successfully applied to natural, multi‐hue images. The multi‐hue images showed overall success, though viewers indicated that reds could be decreased even further in colorfulness, and yellows could be increased, which may argue in favor of multi‐primary displays. Viewer preferences do vary within the population, primarily in overall chroma level, and the differences can be largely accounted for with a single parameter for chroma‐level adjustment that includes the preferred hue dependence. Image content dependencies were also found, but they remain too complex to model. The hue‐dependent chroma preference results can be applied to display design and color‐enhancement algorithms.
Large‐screen displays using metal—insulator—metal cathode arrays
Authors: Kusunoki Toshiaki , Sagawa Masakazu , Suzuki Mutsumi , Nishimura Etsuko , Ikeda Mitsuharu , Tsuji Kazutaka
Published: November 2010

Abstract— Large‐screen (32‐in. WXGA and 17‐in. VGA) displays using metal—insulator—metal (MIM) cathode arrays have been developed. A cathode structure with low‐resistance electrodes and low‐capacitance emitters shortens signal delay and decreases the voltage drop in large MIM‐cathode arrays. By using a dual‐scan method, the signal delay was suppressed to less than 30% of the horizontal scan time in the 32‐in. WXGA panel. Emission efficiency of the cathode array was improved to 3% by reducing the surface work function of the top electrode from 4.7 to 3.9 eV. The cathode life was also improved to more than 10,000 hours. The display panel incorporating the cathode arrays and high‐efficiency P22‐phosphor screens with 3‐mm spacers showed high screen brightness (average brightness, 378 cd/m2; peak brightness, 832 cd/m2) at an anode voltage of 10 kV.
Religion and Preferences for Redistributive Policies in an East Asian Country
Authors: Chang Wen‐Chun
Published: November 2010

This paper investigates the role of religion in shaping people's preferences for redistributive policies in an East Asian country, where traditional values mostly stem from the beliefs of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism that influence people's perceptions about the principles of social justice. Using data from Taiwan Social Change Survey of 2006, the findings from this study provide supportive evidence for the arguments of previous literature and offer some further distinct results. In particular, under the social and cultural context of an East Asian country, the linkages between religious affiliation and frequency of religious attendance and preferences for redistributive policies are different from what have been found in studies of Western Christian societies. Being Protestant leads to a more favorable attitude toward several social insurance and welfare programs in Taiwan, while Buddhists and Taoists tend to be more supportive of a government's role in providing health care and believers of folk religions are more favorable for the provision of financial help to students from low‐income families. By contrast, the frequency of religious attendance displays some negative relationships with preferences for redistributive policies. As an important part of traditional cultures, religion is influential to the cultivation and indoctrination of people's beliefs about fairness, social justice, and the legitimization of redistributive policies.
Effect of Lifetime Limits and Differences between TANF Leavers Who Had Reached Their Lifetime Limits and Those Who Had Exited Voluntarily
Authors: Lee Kyoung Hag
Published: November 2010

This study explored different sociodemographic characteristics and differences of employment and income between TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program) leavers who reached their lifetime limits and those who leave voluntarily. The study analyzed 656 TANF leavers from the 1999 and 2002 data of the National Survey of America's Family (NASF). Chi‐square and t‐test results indicated significant differences for age, health, EITC, childcare assistance, food stamp cut‐off, employment, and income between the two groups. Multiple regression results showed that TANF leavers who reached their lifetime limits were less likely than voluntary leavers to be employed and to have high family income. Implications suggest the increase in adoption of exemption or extension policies for lifetime limits and providing follow‐up services.
Book Review of Learning on Other People's Kids: Becoming a Teach For America Teacher
Authors: Singh Navin K
Published: November 2010

This is a book review of Learning on Other People's Kids: Becoming a Teach For America Teacher, written by Barbara T. Veltri.
The U. S. System of Social Security: Emphatically Not a Ponzi Scheme
Authors: Skidmore Max J.
Published: November 2010

This article, written by PPP Editor‐In‐Chief Max J. Skidmore, references information from his and others' research, including quoted information taken from the Security and Exchange Commission's own website to disassociate the U.S. Social Security System from recent allegations that it is a kind of Ponzi or “Pyramid” scheme. It is pointed out that social insurance, unlike Ponzi programs, offers sustainable revenues for contributing patrons and not get‐rich‐quick scenarios.
Emission of toxic components as a factor of the best practice options for waste management: Application of LCA (Life Cycle Assessment)
Authors: Stevanovic-Carapina Hristina , Stepanov Jasna , Savic Dunja , Mihajlov Andjelka
Published: November 2010

Health and safety have been the major concerns in waste management. Waste
must be managed in a way that minimizes risk to human health. Environmental
concerns over the management and disposal of waste can be divided into two
major areas: conservation of resources and pollution of the environment.
Integrated Waste Management (IWM) systems combine waste streams, waste
collection, treatment and disposal methods, with the objective of achieving
environmental benefits, economic optimization and societal acceptability.
Integrated waste management using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) attempts to
offer the most benign options for waste management. LCA is a compilation and
evaluation of the inputs, the outputs and the potential environmental impacts
of a product system throughout its life cycle. It can be successfully applied
to municipal solid waste management systems to identify the overall
environmental burdens and to assess the potential environmental impacts. This
paper deals with the LCA of the two waste management options for final
disposal of municipal waste, landfilling (landfill without landfill gas
collection or leachate collection) and sanitary landfilling (landfill with
landfill gas collection and recovery and leachate collection and treatments)
analyzed for town Sombor, Serbia. The research is conducted with the use of
the Software Package IWM-2. The indicators which are used in the assessment
are air and water emissions of toxic compounds. The results indicated that
waste disposal practice has a significant effect on the emission of the toxic
components and environmental burdens. Sanitary landfilling of municipal solid
waste significantly reduces toxic emission and negative influence on the
environment.
Two Major Patterns of Nongenetic Malformations Are Found at Autopsy
Authors: Davies Belinda R. , Giménez-Scherer Juan Antonio
Published: November 2010

Patterns of malformations seen in autopsies may contribute to the understanding of their pathogenetic mechanisms. Two entities, acardiac twins (ATs) and amniotic band disruption complex (ABDC), have distinct patterns, indicating different mechanisms, namely vascular perfusion deficit and external disruption. With ATs and ABDC as model groups, this study was undertaken to see if other dysmorphic infants with the characteristic defects of these models formed distinct and numerically important groups. A total of 192 autopsies with nongenetic malformations was divided into groups including (1) those with defects found in the ATs but not in the ABDC, (2) those with defects found only in the ABDC, and (3) those with a mixture of exclusive defects from each model group. The cases followed the characteristic defects of ATs or ABDC in 20% (group 1) and 28% (group 2), respectively, forming 2 large and distinct groups; only 4% had mixed malformations (group 3). Group 1 had different characteristics from group 2 as a result of the frequent multiple malformations, often with congenital heart defects (CHDs), internal and inferior malformations. These cases were probably related to a vascular perfusion deficit. Group 2 had a majority of females and single, external, and superior defects, but it lacked CHDs and inferior malformations. These cases were likely due to external disruption. Two large and distinct groups of autopsies with nongenetic malformations were thus identified, and their mechanisms are proposed to be similar to those of the model groups.
An Evaluation of Well Ways, a Family Education Programme for Carers of People with a Mental Illness
Authors: Stephens Jessica R. , Farhall John , Farnan Sue , Ratcliff Kirk M.
Published: November 2010

Objectives: Family education programmes aim to improve the well-being of carers of people with a mental illness. We evaluated the effectiveness of one such programme, Well Ways, in reducing negative care-giving consequences.

Method: We employed a pre-post design to evaluate the effectiveness of Well Ways in a naturalistic setting using a sample of carers of people with a mental illness. The Involvement Evaluation Questionnaire, a measure of care-giving consequences including worrying, tension, urging and supervision, and incorporating the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), was completed by 459 carers before and after participation in Well Ways.

Results: Participants’ worrying, tension, urging and distress (GHQ-12) were significantly lower following completion of the programme. These improvements were maintained at 3 and 6 month follow up. Carers of people with a psychotic disorder experienced significantly greater reductions in worrying than did other carers. Females reported significantly greater reductions in tension than did males.

Conclusions: Findings indicated support for the effectiveness of the Well Ways programme in reducing negative care-giving consequences for families of people with a mental illness. Given the evidence of poor psychological health and negatively appraised family relationships observed at baseline, these findings highlight the need for programmes such as Well Ways.
Comparison of dielectric barrier discharge in air, nitrogen and argon at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Tyata RB , Subedi DP , Wong CS
Published: November 2010

This paper reports the results of electrical characterization of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) generated in air, nitrogen and argon at atmospheric pressure. Polycarbonate plate of thickness 1 mm was used as a dielectric barrier in a specially designed hemispherical-plane electrode system. A nonuniform filamentary type of discharge was observed in air. Introducing nitrogen and argon gas at controlled flow rate of 1-2 liters / minute resulted a more homogeneous discharge at a frequency of 28 kHz of the AC source. The discharge was investigated for two values of electrode gap of 1 mm and 2 mm by varying the applied voltage. The number of current pulse per half cycle and the magnitude of the discharge current were found to be higher in the case of air discharge in comparison to the discharge in nitrogen and argon. The characteristics of the discharge in air in the absence dielectric barrier was also examined and interestingly it was found that in this case the filamentary discharge turned to a glow discharge for specific value of applied voltage and electrode spacing. Keywords: DBD; Glow Discharge; hemispherical-plane electrode; filamentary discharge; Polycarbonate Sheet DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4006Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.6-12
Ambient air quality in an urban area and its effects on plants and human beings: a case study of Tiruchirappalli, India
Authors: Horaginamani Sirajuddin M , Ravichandran M
Published: November 2010

Though water and land pollution is very dangerous, air pollution has its own peculiarities, due to its transboundary dispersion of pollutants over the entire world. In any well planned urban set up, industrial pollution takes a back seat and vehicular emissions take precedence as the major cause of urban air pollution. Air pollution is one of the serious problems faced by the people globally, especially in urban areas of developing countries like India. All these in turn lead to an increase in the air pollution levels and have adverse effects on the health of people and plants. Western countries have conducted several studies in this area, but there are only a few studies in developing countries like India. A study on ambient air quality in Tiruchirappalli urban area and its possible effects selected plants and human health has been undertaken, which may be helpful to bring out possible control measures. Keywords: ambient air quality; respiratory disorders; APTI; human health DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4007Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.13-19
Fixed point theorem for a pair of self maps satisfying a general contractive condition of integral type
Authors: Singh MR , Singh L Sharmeswar
Published: November 2010

In this paper, we establish a fixed point theorem for a pair of self maps satisfying a general contractive condition of integral type. This theorem extends and generalizes some early results of Boikanyo.Key Words: LDOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4008Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.20-27
Slope mass rating in middle mountain of Nepal: a case study on landslide at Rabi VDC Opi Village, Kavre
Authors: Kafle Kumud Raj
Published: November 2010

The study landslide area lies on Opi Village Development Committee (VDC) of Kavre district at the north west (about 3 km) of Dhulikhel Bazar and North east (about 4km) from Banepa Bazar of Nepal. The area is composed of rocks of Bhimphedi group of lesser Himalayan crystalline. The rock on this group comprises Precambrian green schists metamorphosed rocks of schist quartzite and few marble horizons. Geomorphologically, the failure site is located in between a stream gully on the toe and residual soil on the crown. Field observation, attitude measurements, sampling and lab analysis and GPS mapping are the main methods to find the dimension and characteristics of the landslide.It is found that there are few major discontinuities that play the role for the rock/soil slides around the area. In the field measurement the orientation of the rock foliation around the area is 220°/35°. The major discontinuities are 205°/40° and 150°/60°. These joint sets play the main role to the plane as well as wedge failures around the area.Slope Mass Rating (SMR) is calculated based on values of Rock Mass Rating (RMR), other joints and slope orientation. The calculated value of SMR is 34, which indicates the calculated value lies on IV class (Bad), unstable having planner or big wedges failure of SMR and needs to be corrective measures in the slope. The calculated result matches the site condition and characteristics of the Opi land slides. Key Words: Landslide; Discontinuities; Slope Mass Rating; Rock Mass Rating DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4009Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.28-38
The radio channel in the vehicular identification
Authors: Meneses Ricardo , Linares Roberto , Montes Laura
Published: November 2010

The Radio Frequency Identification System, a wireless communication system, recently it is being applied to vehicular identification, the radio electric and geometry environment characteristics influence the Radio Channel, which one, have been analyzed extensively in different papers, but no one of them has analyzed the RFID technology applied to vehicular technology. The radio channel model is necessary for the effective design of transmitters and receivers, and to determining the positions of the tag and the reader. This motivates the analysis of the propagation environment for outdoor RFID systems. In order to know a feasible RFID application to the vehicular identification, a set of tests were implemented in laboratory and in the field, in order to obtain a channel model that predicts the average power level, a semi-stochastic model, where the average power level is given by the distance raised to some power that depends on the environment, and the field strength in an area around a transmitter, and take into account the structure and materials used at every location in the area. As a result from these tests, the RFID signal and the RFID channel behavior are the focus and discussion of this article. Key words: Reader; tag; electromagnetic environment; backscatter signal; RFID channel. DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4010Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.39-47
Monitoring of toxic metals (cadmium, lead, arsenic and mercury) in vegetables of Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Abbas Muhammad , Parveen Zahida , Iqbal Muhammad , Riazuddin M , Iqbal Sajid , Ahmed Mubarik , Bhutto Rashid
Published: November 2010

A monitoring study was carried out with the aim to assess the level of toxic metals i.e., lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg) in different vegetables grown in Sindh province of Pakistan during 2007-2008. Two hundred ten samples of twenty one vegetables were collected from farmers' field of Sindh and exporters at Karachi. These samples were grouped into four categories viz., leafy, root and tuberous, cucurbits and fruity. The samples in duplicate were digested with nitric and perchloric acid mixture with 3:1 ratio. Cadmium and Pb were analyzed with Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and As and Hg on Atomic Absorption using Vapor and Hydride Generation Assembly. Average concentration of Cd, Pb, As and Hg in leafy vegetables was found 0.083 μgg-1, 0.05 μgg-1, 0.042 μgg-1 and 0.008 μgg-1 respectively, in roots and tuberous vegetables was 0.057 μgg-1, 0.03 μgg-1, 0.045 μgg-1 & 0.004 μgg-1 respectively, in cucurbit vegetables was 0.021 μgg-1, 0.051 μgg-1, 0.056 μgg-1 and 0.0089 μgg-1 respectively and in fruity vegetables was 0.035 μgg-1, 0.067 μgg-1, 0.054 μgg-1 and 0.007 μgg-1 respectively. In leafy vegetables, the concentration of cadmium, lead and mercury were found comparatively higher than other three groups of vegetables. However, concentration of heavy metals found in the samples of all four categories of vegetables, was within the permissible limits and safe to consume. Keywords: Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy; Heavy Metals; Vegetables; Graphite Furnace; Vapor Generation; Hydride GenerationDOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4013Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.60-65
Fault detection and diagnosis for continuous stirred tank reactor using neural network
Authors: Rahman Ribhan Zafira Abdul , Soh Azura Che , Muhammad Noor Fadzlina Binti
Published: November 2010

The paper focuses on the application of neural network techniques in fault detection and diagnosis. The objective of this paper is to detect and diagnose the faults to a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). Fault detection is performed by using the error signals, where when error signal is zero or nearly zero, the system is in normal condition, and when the fault occurs, error signals should distinctively diverge from zero. The fault diagnosis is performed by identifying the amplitude error of the CSTR output error. Keywords: Fault Detection and Diagnosis; Neural Network; CSTR  DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4014Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.66-74
Application of fuzzy logic approach to structure based compariso of in-parallel planar manipulators
Authors: Rao AB Srinivasa
Published: November 2010

Planar In-parallel Manipulations, which are nothing but multi degree-of-freedom closed kinematic chains can be modelled as fuzzy systems, so that the fuzzy logic can be applied. It is shown that the fuzzy entropy can be utilized to compare numerous distinct chains, with the same number of links and degrees of freedom from the view point of parallelism so that the designer can have an idea, at the conceptual stage of design regarding suitability of chains, from the view point of rigidity, work space and accumulation of joint errors. Spatial chains are also dealt with. Aspect of work space is verified experimentally. Keywords: Fuzzy Vector; Fuzzy Entropy; Degree-of-freedom DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4016Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.88-97
Application of artificial neural network to predict properties of diesel-biodiesel blends
Authors: Kumar Jatinder , Bansal Ajay
Published: November 2010

The experimental determination of various properties of diesel-biodiesel mixtures is very time consuming as well as tedious process. Any tool helpful in estimation of these properties without experimentation can be of immense utility. In present work, other tools of determination of properties of diesel-biodiesel blends were tried. A traditional statistical technique of linear regression (principle of least squares) was used to estimate the flash point, fire point, density and viscosity of diesel and biodiesel mixtures. A set of seven neural network architectures, three training algorithms along with ten different sets of weight and biases were examined to choose best Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to predict the above-mentioned properties of dieselbiodiesel mixtures. The performance of both of the traditional linear regression and ANN techniques were then compared to check their validity to predict the properties of various mixtures of diesel and biodiesel. Key words: Biodiesel; Artificial Neural Network; Principle of least squares; Diesel; Linear Regression. DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4017Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.98-103
Synthetic pyrethroides multiresidue in grapes from southern India
Authors: Mahdavian Seyed Esmaeil , Somashekar RK
Published: November 2010

Pyrethroid is a mixture of pyrethrum I and pyrethrum II, extracted from the plant Chrysanthemum and is used for ultra low volume applications. Pyrethroids may have a range of toxic effects on humans and as a result, careful control of Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) in foodstuff is warranted. Twenty two samples of grapes were procured from Bangalore City Markets in 2007 with the objective of determining the contamination of _-cypermethrin and fenvalerate residues. The samples were extracted by Multiresidue Method and determined by Gas chromatography using ECD (Electron Capture Detector). Average recoveries ranged from 73.5 to 83.5%. The results showed that all the samples were contaminated with pesticides and urban consumers are at a risk of purchasing fresh fruits because of higher levels of residues, beyond the MRL as defined by the FAO/WHO, and grapes committee. The screening also showed higher concentration of cypermethrin in comparison to fenvalerate residue. Key Words: Cypermethrin; Fenvalerate; Grapes; GC/ECD; Bangalore DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4018Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.104-110
Powers xn in terms of modified Chebyshev polynomials
Authors: López-Bonilla J , Barragán-Gómez S , Taludhar Nhadraman
Published: November 2010

We exhibit two procedures to express xn in terms of the shifted Chebyshev polynomials, which is useful to reduce the degree of a polynomial in the interval.Keywords: Chebyshev-Lanczos polynomialsDOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4019Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.111-114
Assessment of the efficiency of sewage treatment plants: a comparative study between Nagasandra and Mailasandra sewage treatment plants
Authors: Kumar P Ravi , Pinto Liza Britta , Somashekar RK
Published: November 2010

Bangalore city hosts two Urban Wastewater Treatment Plants (UWTPs) towards the periphery of Vrishabhavathi valley, located in Nellakedaranahalli village of Nagasandra and Mailasandra Village, Karnataka, India. These plants are designed and constructed with an aim to manage wastewater so as to minimize and/or remove organic matter, solids, nutrients, disease-causing organisms and other pollutants, before it reenters a water body. It was revealed from the performance study that efficiency of the two treatment plants was poor with respect to removal of total dissolved solids in contrast to the removal/reduction in other parameters like total suspended solids, BOD and COD. In Mailasandra STP, TDS, TSS, BOD, and COD removal efficiency was 20.01, 94.51, 94.98 and 76.26 % and respectively, while in Nagasandra STP, TDS, TSS, BOD, and COD removal efficiency was 28.45, 99.0, 97.6 and 91.60 % respectively. The order of reduction efficiency was TDS < COD < TSS < BOD and TDS < COD < BOD < TSS respectively in Mailasandra and Nagasandra STPs. Additionally, the problems associated with the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants is discussed. Keywords: Total dissolved solids; Chemical oxygen demand; Biochemical oxygen demand; Aeration tank; Mixed liquor suspended solids; Sludge volume index DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4020Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.115-125
Effect of bath temperature on the chemical bath deposition of PbSe thin films
Authors: Kassim Anuar , Tee Tan Wee , Min Ho Soon , Monohorn Shanthi , Nagalingam Saravanan
Published: November 2010

PbSe thin films are prepared by chemical bath deposition technique over microscope glass substrates from an aqueous acidic bath containing lead nitrate and sodium selenate. The influence of bath temperature on the properties of PbSe film is investigated. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed the deposited films were polycrystalline and having the (111) orientation. The surface morphology study revealed that the grains have cubic shape crystal. The band gap energy was decreased from 2.0 to 1.3 eV as the bath temperature was increased from 40 to 80°C. The films deposited at 80°C showed good crystallinity and uniformly distributed over the surface of substrate with larger grain sizes. Therefore, the optimum bath temperature is 80°C. Keywords: Lead selenide; X-ray diffraction; Band gap energy; Chemical bath deposition; Thin films DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4021Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.126-132
A review and analysis of existing legal and policy issues related to land tenure and agriculture in Nepal
Authors: Sharma K , Khanal SN
Published: November 2010

This review takes stock of current legislative provisions and policies pursued by the Government of Nepal with regard to agriculture and land tenure. Currently, land tenure issues are primarily governed under the legislations enacted by the Ministry of Land Reform and Management, while there are a number of policies formulated in order to facilitate agricultural production by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Ministry of Water Resources for irrigation regulation, Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation through Leaseholds forestry programme.The Government of Nepal has already amended the Land Act, 2021 B.S. twice. Each amendment has targeted something other than ceilings. Amendments in regulation and devising other sectoral policies have not adequately discussed nor have encouraged sustainable land management. New and innovative policies are required to prevent degradation and achieve sustainable management of the precious land resource base of the country. DOI: 10.3126/kuset.v6i2.4022Kathmandu University Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology Vol.6. No II, November, 2010, pp.133-141
Intersubjectivity and Power in Ethnographic Research
Authors: Vitalis Pemunta Ngambouk
Published: November 2010

This paper discusses my perceived positionality in an ethnographic research project on the contentious issue of female circumcision in Southwest Cameroon. My bicultural identity as a Western‐trained, African anthropologist is associated with power because of my perceived alliance with the ‘Whiteman’ (western, rational, scientific knowledge) showing how the anti‐female circumcision campaigns based on discursive practices of mortality and the harmful health effect paradigm have backlashed, suggesting the need to re‐evaluate and be aware of power dynamics between practicing and nonpracticing societies in the construction of the diverse reality of female circumcision. The ritual practice should rather be seen as opened to both rationalisation and modernisation, suggesting that there can be a synergy between local and global, rational science.
‘I Haven’t Forgotten About You’ ‐ Critical Lessons Learned in Negotiating Access into the Field of Care Management
Authors: Scourfield Peter
Published: November 2010

Based on a case study, this paper discusses the issues raised and problems faced when trying to negotiate access to the system of statutory reviews for older people residing in care homes in England. Efforts to recruit participants proved to be more difficult than anticipated. However, the prolonged period of field negotiation yielded its own set of data with which to better understand the adult social care system in England. The paper provides a critical reflection on the reasons behind the care managers’ reluctance to participate and the strategies employed to deflect attention or resist involvement. The discussion provides a broader context in order to allow for wider applicability of the findings across other similar situations.
Surgery as a Double-Edged Sword: A Clinically Feasible Approach to Overcome the Metastasis-Promoting Effects of Surgery by Blunting Stress and Prostaglandin Responses
Authors: Benish Marganit , Ben-Eliyahu Shamgar
Published: November 2010

Surgery remains an essential therapeutic approach for most solid malignancies, including breast cancer. However, surgery also constitutes a risk factor for promotion of pre-existing micrometastases and the initiation of new metastases through several mechanisms, including the release of prostaglandins and stress hormones (e.g., catecholamines and glucocorticoids). However, the perioperative period also presents an opportunity for cell mediated immunity (CMI) and other mechanisms to eradicate or control minimal residual disease, provided that the deleterious effects of surgery are minimized. Here, we discuss the key role of endogenous stress hormones and prostaglandins in promoting the metastatic process through their direct impact on malignant cells, and through their deleterious impact on anti-cancer CMI. We further discuss the effects of anesthetic techniques, the extent of surgery, pain alleviation, and timing within the menstrual cycle with respect to their impact on tumor recurrence and physiological stress responses. Last, we suggest an attractive perioperative drug regimen, based on a combination of a cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitor and a β-adrenergic blocker, which we found effective in attenuating immune suppression and the metastasis-promoting effects of surgery in several tumor models. This regimen is clinically applicable, and could potentially promote disease free survival in patients operated for breast and other types of cancer.