bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does water utilities' ownership matter in water pricing policy? An analysis of endogenous and environmental determinants of water tariffs in Italy
Authors: Romano Giulia , Masserini Lucio , Guerrini Andrea
Published: October 2015

Owing to the growing importance of efficient water management, it has become crucial to understand water utilities' characteristics and the environmental factors affecting water pricing, so as to provide guidance to policy-makers. The analysis of factors influencing water tariffs is a challenging task in a context in which companies providing the service are characterized by different ownership features. Moreover, environmental factors and companies' characteristics may simultaneously influence both the decision to privatize the service and the water tariff level. Using a treatment effects model, where privatization is considered as an endogenous binary treatment variable, this paper analyzes whether and how certain relevant variables affect the tariffs levied by water utilities in Italy. The results show that higher tariffs are set in order to cover a greater amount of investments; furthermore, abundant water availability, measured by the average annual rainfall, significantly reduces prices. The data surprisingly show that tariffs are higher where the income level is lower. Significantly, after accounting for the endogeneity due to the fact that water firms are not randomly distributed between totally publicly or not totally publicly owned, our results seem to suggest that ownership does not influence the tariffs levied by water utilities.
Understanding aqueous trace metal characteristics from industrial sources in China
Authors: Wu Wenjun , Wang Jinnan , Bi Jun , Yuan Zengwei , Jiang Hongqiang , Liu Lingxuan
Published: October 2015

Trace metals are a group of toxic pollutants that can cause serious damage to ecosystems and humans. To determine the distribution characteristics of aqueous trace metal contamination and identify critical pollution sources, it is necessary to develop a detailed estimation of trace metal emissions. By considering emission-related factors in each industrial sector, we estimate that the emissions were approximately 2, 61 t, 2,684 t, 301 t and 309 t for mercury, cadmium, chromium, arsenic and lead, respectively, in 2010 in China. These values are much higher than those provided in annual statistical reports. Our research identified critical emissions sources, including Shandong, Henan, Jiangsu and Guangdong Provinces and Raw Chemical, Non-ferrous Smelting, Non-ferrous Mining and Metal Products industries. However, Shandong and Metal Products are ignored in ‘The Twelfth 5-Year Plan for Complete Control of Trace Metal Pollution’. This research generally found that the allowable discharge levels had a significant impact on specific sectors. Total emissions are much lower than the maximum allowable under current Chinese emissions regulations but exceed limits recommended by Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (European Union). Furthermore, our study found that many regions located along upstream reaches of the Yangtze River, like Sichuan Province, are sources of cross-boundary pollution.
Assessing the environmental impact of the water footprint in Beijing, China
Authors: Huang Kai , Wang Ziyuan , Yu Yajuan , Yang Shunshun
Published: October 2015

Beijing is experiencing a shortage of water resources. Its rapid development and dense population have caused an extreme demand for water. This study quantifies the water footprint of Beijing at the sectoral level using a modified input–output model and estimates the impacts of freshwater use by life cycle impact assessment. The results suggest that the main water source of Beijing industries is groundwater, which is quite different from the main use of surface water in China. By coupling the input–output model with the eco-indicator 99 method, the environmental impact of the water footprint was quantified. The results show those sectors that introduced severe impacts in 2002 and continued to make large impacts in the following 5 years; the major impact of water use is resource depletion. In addition, the inconsistency of the eco-indicator points and the eco-indicator index of sectors leads us to control sectors with large eco-indicator points and develop those with small eco-indicator indexes. Furthermore, a regional comparison was conducted using the eco-scarcity method and verified that Beijing is under severe water pressure, with a value ranked fifth nationally. We conclude that the control of groundwater use and the externalization of local water pressure should be prioritized in water management in Beijing.
Impacts on the utilization degree of canal water caused by agricultural water reallocation: a case study from China
Authors: Dai Xiaoping , Han Yuping , Zhang Xiaohong , Li Daoxi , Chen Jing
Published: October 2015

Our study area in the People's Victory Canal Irrigation District (PVCID), which is downstream of the Yellow River in China, has been undergoing agricultural water transfer to the city for municipal uses. Water supply condition data from PVCID are used to analyze the impacts of water reallocation on agricultural water supply quality, and field survey data in PVCID are used to examine the impacts of agricultural water supply quality on the utilization degree of canal water. Several issues on the current compensation methods are also discussed. Results show that the amount of irrigation water and the number of days for irrigation are affected by water reallocation, especially when the amount of water diversion significantly decreases. Regression results show that timeliness and adequacy of canal water are important factors affecting the utilization degree of canal water. Several factors reveal significant association with the utilization degree of canal water, such as the water price of canal water, water fee charge methods, soil texture of the largest cropland, precipitation, and age of farm household head. Current compensation methods can hardly compensate for the decrease in canal water reliability. Some recommendations are put forward to compensate for the adverse effects of agricultural water transfer.
Seeking a consensus: water management principles from the monotheistic scriptures
Authors: Lefers Ryan , Maliva Robert G. , Missimer Thomas M.
Published: October 2015

Religious and cultural values related to water use and management are important motivation for many people of the world. Although much has been written related to water management and use in Islam, fewer authors have attempted to evaluate water management through the lens of other religions. The common thread of monotheism, specifically worship of the one God of Abraham, binds together the world's largest two religions (Islam and Christianity). Judaism also falls within this monotheistic group and is especially important in the context of Middle Eastern water management. As agriculture consumes approximately 70% of all fresh water used in the world today, proper management of water within its context is of critical and global importance. This paper presents an effort to build consensus from a monotheistic scripture-based perspective related to water management in agriculture. If greater dialog and agreement about water management can be attained within and among monotheists, complex issues related to transboundary water management, reuse and conservation could be resolved with less conflict, creating a shared overall management vision.
Effect of Single Dose Intramuscular Methylprednisolone Injection into the Masseter Muscle on the Surgical Extraction of Impacted Lower Third Molars: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vyas N , Agarwal S , Shah N , Patel D , Aapaliya P
Published: October 2015

Background Lower impacted third molar surgical extraction usually causes post-surgical sequelae like pain, trismus and swelling as a result of postoperative inflammatory response.Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of single dose 40-mg (1cc) of methylprednisolone acetate, injected into the masseter muscle, preoperatively one hour before the surgery or post-operatively, immediately following the surgical removal of impacted lower third molars, in controlling most common postoperative sequelae, i.e. trismus, pain and swelling of facial soft tissue.Methods A randomized control study was done of 60 patients. Each patient was categorized in two groups, group I and group II, according to the time of receiving methylprednisolone acetate. Group I was injected 40mg of methylprednisolone acetate into the masseter muscle via the intrabuccal approach, one hour before the surgery. Group II was injected 40mg of methylprednisolone acetate into the masseter muscle via the intrabuccal approach, immediately after suturing of the surgical wound. The washout period was one month after the first operation. Evaluation were made of postoperative pain, trismus and swelling. The numeric pain scale (NPS) was used for pain assessment.Results When the patients were administered methylprednisolone acetate preoperatively, showed superior results in terms of oral aperture, pain and all the facial swelling parameters, with statistically significant differences versus the postoperatively administered methylprednisolone acetate (p < 0.05).Conclusions A single dose of 40 mg (1cc) methylprednisolone acetate injected into the masseter muscle preoperatively is more effective in reducing pain, trismus and swelling, when compared to that administered postoperatively.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 4-8
A Study of Clinical and Endoscopic Profile of Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Dewan KR , Patowary BS , Bhattarai S
Published: October 2015

Backgroud Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding is a common medical emergency with a hospital mortality of approximately 10 percent. Higher mortality rate is associated with rebleeding. Rockall scoring system identifies patients at higher risk of rebleed and mortality.Objective To study the clinical and endoscopic profile of acute upper gastrointestinal bleed to know the etiology, clinical presentation, severity of bleeding and outcome.Method This is a prospective, descriptive hospital based study conducted in Gastroenterology unit of College of Medical Sciences and Teaching Hospital, Bharatpur, Nepal from January 2012 to January 2013. It included 120 patients at random presenting with manifestations of upper gastrointestinal bleed. Their clinical and endoscopic profiles were studied. Rockall scoring system was used to assess their prognosis.Result Males were predominant (75%). Age ranged from 14 to 88 years, mean being 48.76+17.19. At presentation 86 patients (71.7%) had both hematemesis and malena, 24 patients (20%) had only malena and 10 patients (8.3%) had only hematemesis. Shock was detected in 21.7%, severe anemia and high blood urea were found in 34.2% and 38.3% respectively. Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding endoscopy revealed esophageal varices (47.5%), peptic ulcer disease (33.3%), erosive mucosal disease (11.6%), Mallory Weiss tear (4.1%) and malignancy (3.3%). Median hospital stay was 7.28+3.18 days. Comorbidities were present in 43.3%. Eighty six patients (71.7%) had Rockall score < 5 and 34 (28.3%) had >6. Five patients (4.2%) expired. Risk factors for death being massive rebleeeding, comorbidities and Rockall score >6.Conclusion Acute Upper Gastrointestinal bleeding is a medical emergency. Mortality is associated with massive bleeding, comorbidities and Rockall score >6. Urgent, appropriate hospital management definitely helps to reduce morbidity and mortality.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 21-25
Post Operative Diagnosis of Early Gastric Cancer in a Low Risk Population and the Possibility of Risk Stratified Screening
Authors: Ghimire B , Singh YP , Timalsina S
Published: October 2015

Background Gastric cancer is the second commonest cause of cancer related mortality worldwide. Though its incidence is more in Eastern Asia, it is increasing in the South Asian subcontinent. The diagnosis of early gastric cancer (EGC) confined to the mucosa or submucosa, is an important concern due to a better outcome at this stage where five year survival rates could increase by 90 percent. Though mass screening is done in few countries, it has not been applied in developing countries like Nepal. Preoperative diagnosis of EGC is rare in Nepal. The aim of this study is to analyze the clinico-pathological features of postoperative cases of gastric cancer managed in a tertiary care university hospital of Nepal.Methods All patients with histological diagnosis of gastric cancer admitted in the Department of Surgery, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal during the three year period (September 2010 to August 2013) were analyzed retrospectively.Results Ninety two patients with endoscopic diagnosis of gastric cancers were admitted during the past three years. The mean age was 60 years ranging from 28 years to 85 years with the male to female ratio of 2.8:1. Five patients were younger than 40 years and all were in advanced stage. Thirty five percent of the patients belonged to Janajatis (Hill) community though they comprise only 23% of the population and about 65% of them belonged to an area involving 25% of the country.Seventy six cases were operated. Out of 92 patients, 4 patients were diagnosed as early gastric cancer postoperatively. All patients with early gastric cancer were above 50 years with CT Scan abdomen revealing focal thickening without lymphadenopathy.Conclusion Over the years, the incidence of gastric cancer is increasing in Nepal. Though 92% are advance gastric cancers, few have been diagnosed and treated early. A screening program in a country like Nepal with diverse ethnicity and difficult terrain might be helpful if it targets high risk people in high risk areas.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 32-37
Prevalence of Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation Among School Children in Kavre
Authors: Shrestha R , Upadhaya S , Bajracharya M
Published: October 2015

BackgroundMolar incisor hypomineralisation is defined as the hypomineralisation of systemic origin of one to four permanent first molars, and frequently associated with affected incisors. Till date, there is no data available on molar incisor hypomineralisation in any parts of Nepal.ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence and characteristics of Molar incisor hypomineralisation in 7 to 12 years old school children of Kavre.MethodA total of 749 school children of age 7 to 12 years from four different randomly selected schools with at least one of the first permanent molars fully or partially erupted were evaluated using European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry criteria for molar incisor hypomineralisation. The examinations were conducted at respective schools by a single calibrated examiner.ResultMolar incisor hypomineralisation was present in 13.7% of children. No gender differences were found.The mild type of defect (without structural loss of tooth) was the most prevalent type of molar incisor hypomineralisation with white/creamy demarcated opacities more frequent than yellow/brown demarcated opacities. Post eruptive breakdown was more in boys than in girls and this difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Also, maxillary molars were affected more than mandibular molars and this difference was also statistically significant (p<0.05).ConclusionThe prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralisation in Kavre was 13.7%.Demarcated opacities were more prevalent than breakdown. The hypomineralised defect was more prevalent in maxillary teeth than in mandibular teeth. The severity of defect increased with age and there was no difference in prevalence between girls and boys.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 38-42
Pattern of Occlusal Contacts in Lateral Excursions (Canine Protection or Group Function)
Authors: Sapkota B , Gupta A
Published: October 2015

Background Establishing or providing occlusion that successfully permits efficient masticatory function is basic to dentistry. To maintain harmony of the occlusal condition, the posterior teeth must pass close to but not contact their opposing teeth during mandibular movement. Anterior guidance is essential to a harmonious functional relationship in the masticatory system.Objective The objective of this study was to find out the frequency of pattern of occlusal contacts in lateral position and to compare the accuracy of shim-stock and articulating paper.Method This study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences. The study consisted of 80 healthy subjects between the age group of 18-30 years. They were selected randomly from undergraduate students and dental hygienist of college of dental science and written consent was taken. This age was selected because of minimal occlusal wear.Results In the present study with 80 participants the majority of the contact patterns with shimstock on the working side were group function( 84%), the canine protected occlusal patterns were found to be 12% and the unclassifiable pattern were found to be 4%. On the other hand, the data with articulating paper were group function type (94%), the canine protected occlusal patterns as 2.5% and the unclassifiable pattern were found to be 3.5%.In this study, with shim stock, the majority of the contact patterns were group function being 84% whereas with the articulating paper it was 94%. When shim stock occlusal strip (12 ?m thick) was compared to commonly used articulating paper (40 ?m), the excessive thickness of articulating paper that exceed the maximum recommended thickness of occlusal recording strips markedly must have given much more false contacts.Conclusion It was concluded that the majority of the contact pattern were group function being 84% with shim stock and 94% with articulating paper. Also shim stock exhibits superior accuracy and reliability.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 43-47
Outcomes of Extra Corporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy in Renal and Ureteral Calculi
Authors: Joshi HN , Karmacharya Rm , Shrestha R , Shrestha B , De Jong IJ , Shrestha RKM
Published: October 2015

Background Since the introduction in early 1980s, Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) became the accepted first line treatment modality for renal and upper ureteric stones. It is simple, safe and effective noninvasive procedure which can be performed without anaesthesia in outpatient basis. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of ESWL to achieve complete stone clearance in the patients with different sizes of renal and upper ureteric stones.Objective The aim of this study was to assess the outcome, efficacy and complications of ESWL in the treatment for renal and ureteric stones in terms of the site and the size of the stone in the patients presented at Dhulikhel Hospital Kathmandu University Hospital.Method In this prospective study a total of 430 (214 renal and 216 ureteric) cases of urinary stone disease in 257 male and 173 female patients treated by ESWL at Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Teaching Hospital during time period of May 2010 to June 2012 were included. Data of patients with renal and ureteric stones were evaluated for stone site, size, and number of sessions. Data were analyzed using spss 13.0.Result Out of 430 cases, the overall stone free rate in after 1st session was 341 (79.3%) at one month and in three months follow up (3 sessions) it was increased up to 414 (96.3%). In 16 (3.7%) patients treatment was failed. Average size of the stone was 12.24 (SD± 3.65) mm.Stone free rate was 154 (72%) in the case of renal and 187 (86.6%) in the case of ureteric stones in first session. In three months follow up (three sessions) it was 204 (95.4%) and 210 (97.2%) respectively for renal and ureteric stones. In relation to size the stone free rate in <10mm, 10-15mm and > 15mm was 97%, 97% and 90%.Conclusion ESWL is the first line preferred choice for renal and upper ureteric stones which provides the maximum stone free rate in the case of stone size smaller than 1.5cm.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 51-54
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography at Dhulikhel hospital: Outcome Analysis
Authors: Gurung RB , Purbey B , Koju R , Bedi TRS
Published: October 2015

Background Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an important but potentially invasive therapeutic procedure in treating various pancreatobiliary conditions. In Nepal, the ERCP services is limited to a few tertiary care centers mostly in the capital, Kathmandu. Dhulikhel hospital has started ERCP since 2011 providing services to patients from all over the country. The study analyzes the outcome from data since August 2011 to 2013 August.Objective To analyze the results of ERCP done in Dhulikhel hospital, Kathmandu University hospital.Method This is a retrospective study. The ERCP records of all the patients done since August 2011 to August 2013 were retrieved. A total of 516 attempts of ERCP were done since August 2011 to August 2013. Out of these, 423 were included for the analysis. The repeat ERCP for the same patient due to failed cannulation or patients undergone ERCP but incomplete documentation were excluded. The demographic data, indications, the findings, the outcome in terms of success or failure to cannulation, success or failure of stone extraction, stenting and complications were all derived and analyzed. SPSS 16 version was employed for data management and analysis.Result The female: male ratio was found to be 1.7 : 1. The mean age of patients were 50.57±17.8 Years. The most common indication for ERCP were: choledocholithiasis 208(49.17%); followed by: obstructive jaundice 69(16.3% ) of undetermined cause, acute biliary pancreatitis 26(6.4%), suspected bile duct injury during cholecystectomy 18(4.2%), periampullary growth 21( 4.96%), Cholangiocarcinoma 12(2.8%), chronic pancreatitis 10( 2.3%), CBD stent exchange 23(5.43%), dilated cbd 21(4.96%) , acute cholangitis 14(3.3%).The most common finding was CBD stone in 308(72.81%), normal in 51(12.1% ), bile duct stricture in 45(10.63%). Bile duct injury during cholecystectomy was found in 13(3.1%), biliary obstruction due to ampullary growth and pancreatic head mass was found in 21(4.96%) and 6(1.41%) respectively. Choledochal cyst was found in 5(1.2%), chronic pancreatitis in 7(1.7%). Biliary fascioliasis was found in one (0.24%); and roundworm in 1(0.24).The most common complication was acute pancreatitis in 17(4%), post-ERCP cholangitis 6(1.4%), bleeding 6(1.4%), duodenal perforation in 1(0.2%), arrhythmia in 1(0.2%) and one death (0.2%).Conclusion ERCP has been a potentially emerging therapeutic tool for various pancreato-biliary disorders in Nepal.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 55-59
Granulosa Cell Tumor Of The Ovary – An Incidental Finding During Caesarean Section – A Rare Case Report
Authors: Roy J , Babu AS
Published: October 2015

Approximately one-fourth of the ovarian neoplasms and cysts are diagnosed incidentally during caesarean section. The possibility of borderline tumor or cancer should be considered although existence of ovarian malignancy in pregnancy is rare. We report a case of a rare solid malignant tumor of the ovary incidentally found during caesarean section. Intraoperatively, it was thought to be a variant of the common ovarian teratoma. Ovariectomy was done but histopathology revealed it to be granulosa cell tumor. The diagnosis changed the prognosis and future treatment plan drastically. Equipped with this knowledge physicians can be made aware of the existence of this little-known ovarian neoplasm along with its rare association with pregnancy. Also one can better manage, counsel and follow-up the patients after delivery, given the knowledge of the tumours’ inevitable malignant potential and its high incidence of recurrence.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 60-63
Immune Responses in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Shrestha R , Shrestha Shakya , Millington O , Brewer J , Bushell T
Published: October 2015

Neurodegenerative disease is a progressive loss of neurons from central nervous system and has a huge impact on health care system. Various causes have been proposed of which inflammation has been suggested to be a probable key factor in the most of such conditions. The involvement of immune cells including lymphocytes in such diseased condition of the CNS supports this notion. The effective therapy for these diseases has been sought for more than a half century but still lacking such therapy. On such basis this review article has mainly focussed on evidence of the involvement of immune cells in various neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s diseases and Multiple sclerosis and suggests a possible therapy of such diseased conditions of the CNS by the modulation of immune system.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 67-76
Endoscopic Sphenopalatine Artery Cauterization in Recurrent Posterior Epistaxis: An Experience at Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital
Authors: Shrestha BL
Published: October 2015

Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(1) 2014: 85-86
Information Operations on the Background of Contemporary Armed Conflicts
Authors: Novák Tomáš
Published: October 2015

The article presents the theory of information operations on the background of contemporary armed conflicts in Ukraine, Iraq and Syria. In the introduction, information is presented as a phenomenon and the accelerator of social development. It outlines basic information channels that deliver security information to their recipients. Furthermore, the article discusses security and operational environment and also vulnerabilities being caused by increasing dependence on information. The core of the article are information operations presented in theory with the author's commentary on real application in military practice and in terms of the Czech Armed Forces. As part of information operations are subsequently introduced psychological operations, computer network operations and electronic warfare. The article ends with real examples of information and psychological operations in modern warfare, and conditions of their management in the Czech Armed Forces. The conclusion summarizes the general idea of the security environment and information operations, and stresses the importance of information operations in current and future conflicts.
Education in Security System of the Czech Republic
Authors: Karaffa Vladimír
Published: October 2015

Attributes and quality of the security system of the Czech Republic depend on the quality of human potential, which is part of institutions to guarantee security in the broadest sense of the word. The preparation of the staff of each part of the security system, as defined in the Security Strategy of the Czech Republic (2011), is performed in universities, colleges, and middle schools, training facilities, scientific research facilities and by employers. The capacity of educational institutions, in effect exceeds requirements of practice. The coordination of their activities and the content of education are managed by twelve-year-old conceptual document that has been in need of updating. This paper discusses those aspects and points out directions and ideas for addressing of some problems of current practice, and also some of the challenges of the future.
Destruction of Syrian Chemical Weapons: The Next Step to the Global Chemical Disarmament
Authors: Středa Ladislav
Published: October 2015

This paper is above all a quick piece of information on current problem which could have provoked a large war in the Middle East. And also about a unique operation to resolve it. Syrian chemical weapons used to be a serious threat to the entire Middle East, mainly in the context of the ongoing civil war. This was confirmed by repeated use of nerve agent sarin during the conflict. The destruction of Syrian chemical weapons eliminated the threat of escalation of the conflict and its extension to other countries.
Unfulfilled Ambitions of Scottish Defence Policy
Authors: Svoboda Ondřej
Published: October 2015

In the September Scottish referendum of its separation from the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the majority of Scottish voters decided against these efforts. But in case of success, Scottish nationalists originally projected considerable military forces. A five-million nation should have had defence budget of 2.5 billion pounds a year, which is in fact roughly a double of the Czech defence budget! During subsequent ten years after independence, the new Scottish Government planned armed forces of 15,000 regular and another five thousand reserve personnel. The article focuses on this rather unknown dimension of Scottish independence debate.
The Terminology of Peace Support Operations and Their Definition in Doctrinal Documents of the Czech Armed Forces
Authors: Zůna Jaromír , Kosecová Janka
Published: October 2015

The aim of this article is to clarify the terminology of Peace Support Operations. This article briefly explains the evolution and history of peacekeeping operations, as well as the basic concepts and operations division of NATO Peace Support Operations. An important part of this article is the definition of Peacekeeping Operations in the doctrinal documents of the Czech Armed Forces. Peace Support Operations are dynamic and challenging activities. The intensity and complexity of Peace Support Operations has been increasing. That is why their political and military ambitions have been increasing too. There is a reason why authors explain this issue for readers, which is the main goal of this article.
Theory of Peace as a Contradiction to War Science
Authors: Černoch Felix
Published: October 2015

The peace is a state of affairs among states, nations and mankind, characterized by a friendly coexistence, solving matters in dispute by means of negotiations and accords, without use of armed and physical forces or psychological coercion. For preserving peace it is important to respect state sovereignty, independence, the right of nations to define their own courses. The theory of peace, dealing with those items, being introduced by the following article, is called paxology.
Influence of Nano-Polyaniline Contents on Mechanical Properties of Crosslink Recycled Polypropylene Polyaniline
Authors: Husin Muhamad Rasyidi , Arsad Agus , Mad Desa Mohd Shaiful Zaidi , Abdul Rahman Mohd Faizal
Published: October 2015

Crosslink of recycled polypropylene with polyaniline (rPP-PANI) have been prepared via ultrasound extrusion. The concentration of PANI used in the research was varied from 0 to 10 wt% and that of dicumyl peroxide (DCP) was fixed in 1 phr loading of PANI. To examine the morphological structure of the blends, fill emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) was conducted. The increasing loading of polyaniline (PANI) has promoted a slight improvement in both elastic modulus and tensile strength at 4 wt% and impact strength at 10 wt%. However elongation at break showed a decrease at all PANI loadings. The FESEM micrograph confirmed good dispersion of nano-PANI on rPP matrix to form crosslinking between rPP matrix and PANI.
A Study on the Effect of Binder Content for Pore Property of Fe Foam Using Slurry Coating Method
Authors: Yun Jung Yeul , Park Da Hee , Wang Jei Pil
Published: October 2015

Fe foam with above 90% porosity and 2 millimeter pore size was successfully fabricated by a slurry coating process. In this study, the binder contents were controlled to produce the Fe foam with different pore size, strut thickness and porosity. Firstly, the slurry was prepared by uniform mixing with Fe powders, distilled water and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as initial materials. After slurry coating on the polyurethane (PU) foam the sample was dried at 80°C. The PVA and PU foams were then removed by heating at 700°C for 3 hours. The debinded samples were subsequently sintered at 1250°C with holding time of 3 hours under hydrogen atmosphere. The three dimensional geometries of the obtained Fe foams with open cell structure were investigated using X-ray micro CT(computed tomography) as well as the pore morphology, size and phase.
A Study on Post Weld Heat Treatment of Friction Stir Welded Al2195 Blank for Spin Forming
Authors: Yoon Jong Hoon , Yoo Joon Tae , Min Kyung Ju , Lee Ho Sung
Published: October 2015

It is well known that the significant weight reduction and increased strength have placed advanced aluminum-lithium alloys at the forefront of aerospace materials research. For example the use of aluminum-lithium based alloys for rocket fuel tank domes can reduce weight because aluminum-lithium alloys have lower density and higher strength than Al-Cu alloy 2219. However, Al-Li alloys have been shown the inherent low formability characteristic that make them susceptible to cracking during the spinning operations. In this study a novel heat treatment process on the formability of friction stir welded Al-Li alloy blanks are presented. It is shown that the successful heat treatment process has been developed with superior mechanical properties and currently the patent is applied.
The Effectiveness of Cationic and Polymer Inhibitors on Shale
Authors: Ismail Abdul Razak , Junin Radzuan , Ismail Issham , Hamid Mohd Fauzi
Published: October 2015

Maintaining the borehole stability while drilling oil and gas wells is a major problem when drilling through water sensitive formation. Drilling using oil-based drilling fluid is the most effective solution to control shale. Due to the increasing environmental constraints on the use of mineral oil-based drilling fluid system, expensive research has been studied to optimize oil well operations and minimize drilling cost using new water-based drilling fluid system. In this study, the effectiveness of three commonly used shale inhibitors were tested, where cationic polymer and KLA-Gard are cationic type inhibitors and PHPA is polymer type inhibitor. Two types of shale samples were used in this study, both were taken from Malaysia. Each shale sample represents different degree in swelling and dispersion characteristic. The testing procedures were employed for the shale reactivity evaluation, inhibitors’ performance evaluation, rheology and filtration loss effect evaluation as well as the character of the recovered shale from dispersion test. Result showed that the cationic type inhibitor is suitable to be used for swelling shale. For disperse shale, polymer type inhibitor is the best selection to be added in the drilling fluid system. The combination of cationic inhibitor used along with the polymer inhibitor showed reduction in dispersion and swelling tendency. It is also found that the cationic inhibitors showed well compatibility with other polymers in the ionic solution. Cationic inhibitors do not affect the rheology and filtration loss properties but polymer inhibitors affect these properties.
Cellulose Nanowhiskers Reinforced Green Nanocomposites: Some Recent Development
Authors: Hassan Azman , Arjmandi Reza , Mohamad Kassim Mohamad Haafiz
Published: October 2015

Cellulose is the most abundant biomass material in nature. Due to their abundance, high strength and stiffness, low weight and biodegradability, cellulose materials serve as promising candidates for bio-composites production. Extracted from natural fibres, its hierarchical and multi-level organization allows different kinds of cellulosic fillers to be obtained; microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and cellulose nanowhiskers (CNW). Because of the high aspect ratio and nanoscopic size, CNW has shown to be an effective reinforcement to many polymers. The use of CNW as reinforcements in nanocomposites is becoming increasingly attractive leading to green nanocomposites; biodegradable and renewable. Among the green polymers, polylactic acid (PLA) acid has shown to be very popular due to the good mechanical properties. This paper will provide a review of recent studies on the use of CNW in various green polymers with greater emphasis on PLA. Comparison between the effects MCC and CNW in the nanocomposites will also be discussed.
Effect of Colorant on Tensile Strength and Carbonyl Index of Oxo-Biodegradable Low-Density Polyethylene Films during Thermal Aging
Authors: Maalihan Reymark D. , Pajarito Bryan B.
Published: October 2015

The intensive usage of polyethylene (PE) films on packaging applications has created major problems in terms of plastic waste treatment and disposal. To reduce its environmental impact, PE containing pro-oxidants (oxo-biodegradable PE) has been developed which generates carbonyl-containing degradation products when subjected to thermal and/or UV treatment. In this study, low-density PE films with varying colorants as well as thickness and pro-oxidant loading were thermally aged at 50 °C under extended time periods. Degradation responses such as tensile strength and carbonyl index (CI) were monitored with thermal aging time. After 1008 h of thermal exposure, presence of white colorant containing titanium dioxide enhanced the degradation of films as manifested by reduction in tensile strength and increase in CI. It was also found out that yellow colorant containing aromatic amine stabilizer retarded the degradation of films during thermal aging.
Sorption Kinetics of Pro-Oxidant-Loaded PE Plastic Bags in Aqueous Media
Authors: Leuterio Giselle Lou D. , Pajarito Bryan B.
Published: October 2015

Sorption studies in aqueous media of pro-oxidant-loaded polyethylene (PE) films from commercial plastic bags are conducted. A total of 6 types of plastic bags are tested at three levels of thickness and two levels of color (transparent and opaque white). PE films are immersed in deionized water, acidic, and alkaline solutions at 60 °C. Sorption curves show that once the maximum uptake is reached, the weight change of PE films started to decline. The films showing the highest weight uptake and loss are observed in opaque films in alkaline solution. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) shows that during water immersion, both maximum weight uptake and loss are affected by colorant additive, with opaque films yielding the highest weight uptake and loss. During acid immersion, transparent films have significantly higher weight uptake than opaque films. The weight uptake during acid immersion is only affected by film thickness, with the thickest films showing the lowest weight uptake. Similar to results in water immersion, thickness is found to be insignificant to weight uptake and loss of PE films during alkali immersion. Meanwhile, colorant additive is significant to both weight uptake and loss for all films immersed in different solutions.
Effect of Filter Aids on Pressure Drop and Permeability of Two Different Filter Media
Authors: Nurnadia Andenan , Rashid M. , Hajar S. , Ammar M.R.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. A study on the effect of a newly formulated filter aids onto two different types filter media that are teflon and Ryton was carried out in a laboratory scale filtration system. The filter aids material is a combination of PrekotTM and activated carbon which are commonly used as flue gas cleaning agent respectively. The effect of the filter aids of various combination on pressure drop and permeability across the two filter media under different filtration velocities was investigated in this study. Results showed that ryton presents a lower pressure drop under various combinations of filter aids for different filtration velocities compared to teflon. A lower pressure drop across the fabric filter resulted a higher permeability property of ryton which allows higher volumetric air flow rates passing through it compared to teflon filter. The study suggests that the addition of PrekotTM in the formulation of filter aids significantly affect both pressure drop and permeability of the filter media
Novel Hydrophilic Chitosan and Sago Based Membranes for Pervaporation of Organic-Water Mixtures
Authors: Mohd Nawawi Mohd Ghazali , Zamrud Zafifah , Alamaria Abdulhakim M.
Published: October 2015

This study focuses on the utilization of natural polysaccharides as membrane material for the separation of liquid-liquid systems and the potential of membrane pervaporation process to recover drilling mud. Hydrophilic membranes derived from chitosan and sago starch were developed and modified for the pervaporation of ethanol-water, ethyl acetate-water and cesium/potassium formate-water. Membranes were modified through polymer blending, chemical cross-linking as well as heat treatment. Response surface methodology (RSM) was also used to study the optimum preparation conditions of sago starch membranes for the recovery of drilling mud. Increasing feed concentration increases flux and decrease separation factor for both chitosan and sago based membranes. Using RSM, the optimum preparation conditions of sago based membranes was found to be at 65 wt.% of sago, 1.5 wt.% of glutaraldehyde and heat treated at 110°C. Pervaporation was also demonstrated to be feasible for the recovery of cesium/potassium formate drilling mud.
Recycling Technique of Carbon Fiber Laminate Using Hydrolysis Near Critical Region
Authors: Moon Byung Young , Kim Byeong Soo
Published: October 2015

This paper aimed to maximize resin removal from CFRP in the near-critical region. A near-critical water process was performed in a batch reactor to recycle CFRP for temperatures ranging from 543K to 573K and reaction times up to 30 minutes. The removal percentages of weight were between 53.9% and 9731% and the yield of the process was significantly increased up to 97.1%, when operating in 573K temperature and immediately removing the near-critical water after reaction. The microscopic images showed that a clean surface of recycled carbon fibers was confirmed. For preventing re-solidification of epoxy resin, a circulating system of the near-critical water dissolving epoxy resin is needed and the use of a flow reactor is recommended for better mass transfer. Due to the importance of recycling of CFRP during the next few years, a new low cost recycling system is essential to deal with the tons of waste composite materials. This study will be helpful to design a commercial scale recycling system in the further direction.
Preparation of Cellulose Nanocrystal Aerogel from Wastepaper through Freeze-Drying Technique
Authors: Danial Wan Hazman , Abdul Majid Zaiton , Mohd Muhid Mohd Nazlan , Bakar Mohd Bakri , Ramli Zainab , Triwahyono Sugeng
Published: October 2015

Cellulose nanomaterials processing for aerogel preparation has received considerable attention among the scientific community due to its fascinating properties. In this work, we report on the preparation of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) aerogel from wastepaper using a freeze-drying technique. Structural analysis of the cellulosic particles extracted was investigated by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Morphological analysis of the extracted cellulose and CNCs were carried out by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) respectively. We achieved density of aerogel down to 0.012 g/cm3 which is comparable with typical values of cellulosic aerogels. The preparation of the CNCs aerogel might offers a wide range of aerogel applications through an environmentally friendly conversion of wastepaper material.
Effect of Fluidization Number on the Combustion of Empty Fruit Bunch in a Fluidized Bed
Authors: Johari Anwar , Tuan Abdullah Tuan Amran , Hassim Mimi Haryani , Kidam Kamarizan , Kamaruddin Mohd Johari , Zakaria Zaki Yamani , Sulaiman Wan Rosli Wan
Published: October 2015

The effect of fluidization number on the sustainability of fluidized bed combustion of empty fruit bunch was investigated. Proximate and ultimate analyses were conducted to determine the physical and chemical properties of empty fruit bunch. Sand mean particle size was determined at 0.34 mm and the sand bed height was set at 1 Dc which is equivalent to the diameter of the reactor. Combustion study was carried out in a circular reactor of 0.21 m diameter and operated at stoichiometric condition (Air Factor = 1). The range of fluidization numbers under investigation was from 3 to 8 Umf. The fluidized bed operated in a bubbling mode at operating temperature at about 700°C. Results showed that the most optimum fluidization number was 5 Umf being the most optimum with respect to the sustainability of the bed temperature.
A Theoretical Performance of MR-DeDuster as a Fine Dust Emission Control System
Authors: Hasyimah N. , Rashid M. , Norelyza H.
Published: October 2015

The theoretical performance of a newly developed multi-cyclone system known as MR-deDuster was investigated in term of its collection efficiency tested on a different type of particles. In addition, the performance of the system was also evaluated based on the various diameter of its vortex finder. A modified version of semi-empirical equations introduced by Lapple was used in the prediction. The results showed that the collection efficiency of the system increases with the diameter of vortex finder and density of particles. Details of the finding are discussed and presented in this paper.
Improvement of Hydrophilic Stability of Diamond-Like Carbon Films by O2/CF4 Plasma Post-Treatment
Authors: Jongwannasiri Chavin , Watanabe Shuichi
Published: October 2015

In this article, the results obtained from a study carried out on the plasma post-treatment of diamond-like carbon (DLC) films using an oxygen/tetrafluoromethane (O2/CF4) gas mixture is reported. The surface morphology and chemical bonding of the films before and after the plasma post-treatment were characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. The effect of adding CF4 to the O2 plasma on the wettability of the films was also examined using contact angle measurements. The results indicate that the surface roughness increased with the addition of CF4 to the O2 plasma, whereas oxygen-and fluorinated-based functional groups were generated on the surface of the DLC films submitted to O2/CF4 plasma post-treatment. The surface energy also decreased with increasing CF4 fraction, causing the surface of the films to be hydrophobic. Furthermore, the films containing 20% CF4 exhibited higher hydrophilic stability than the others. Thus, the addition of a small amount of CF4 to O2 plasma can be considered beneficial in improving the hydrophilic stability of surface of DLC films.
A Study on the Structural Analysis of Jacket Substructure Related to Offshore Wind Power Environment
Authors: Sun Min Young , Lee Ki Yeol , Moon Byung Young
Published: October 2015

The currently applied structure and fatigue assessment of support structure for offshore wind energy converter was based on common design rules. The accurate evaluation for environments of sea floor as to installation of support structure, loads of generator, dynamic loads in operation, and offshore environmental loads might be an essential requirement to acquire a safety design for the substructure. This study aims at dedicating to offshore-relevant technology fields by suggesting design methods of structures and estimating their safety in relation to the structural analysis of the substructure requiring high safety to various environment conditions. Especially, with respect to 5MW Offshore Wind Power System, this study will provide information about major wind directions and duration in combination with the developing wave climate at the test field. In this study in the dynamic analysis for 5MW offshore wind power substructure which is considered to be proper in Korea, it is expected that reliability of domestic technology is confirmed with respect to its structural stability.