bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Novel Member of the BCL2 Gene Family, BCL2L12, Is Substantially Elevated in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients, Supporting Its Value As a Significant Biomarker
Authors: Papageorgiou Sotirios G. , Kontos Christos K. , Pappa Vassiliki , Thomadaki Hellinida , Kontsioti Frida , Dervenoulas John , Papageorgiou Efstathios , Economopoulos Theofanis , Scorilas Andreas
Published: July 2011

BCL2L12 is a recently identified gene belonging to the BCL2 family, members of which are implicated in hematologic malignancies, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The aim of this study was to analyze the mRNA expression of the novel apoptosis-related gene BCL2L12 in patients with CLL and to examine its prognostic and predictive value and potential clinical application as a novel molecular biomarker for CLL. For this purpose, total RNA was isolated from peripheral blood of 65 CLL patients and 23 healthy donors. An ultrasensitive quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction methodology for BCL2L12 and BCL2 mRNA quantification was developed using SYBR Green chemistry. After preparing cDNA by reverse transcription, relative quantification analysis was performed using the comparative CT (2−ΔΔCT) method. Furthermore, analysis of IGHV mutational status, CD38 expression, and detection of early apoptosis by double staining with Annexin V-FITC and propidium iodide were performed. According to our findings, BCL2L12 mRNA expression is significantly higher in CLL patients than in healthy donors. Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that BCL2L12 expression had significant discriminatory value, distinguishing very efficiently CLL patients from the non-leukemic population. Moreover, BCL2L12 expression predicts the presence of CLL, as demonstrated by both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Finally, high BCL2L12 mRNA levels are associated with advanced clinical stage and predict shorter overall survival in CLL patients.
KRAS and Colorectal Cancer: Ethical and Pragmatic Issues in Effecting Real-Time Change in Oncology Clinical Trials and Practice
Authors: Blanke Charles D. , Goldberg Richard M. , Grothey Axel , Mooney Margaret , Roach Nancy , Saltz Leonard B. , Welch John J. , Wood William A. , Meropol Neal J.
Published: July 2011

Systemic therapy has led to a median survival time for patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) almost fourfold longer than that expected with best supportive care, an outcome achieved through combining chemotherapeutic and targeted biologic agents. Although the latter can include anti–epidermal growth factor receptor antibodies, such as cetuximab and panitumumab, we now have strong evidence that patients whose tumors harbor mutated KRAS will not benefit from this class of agent. Acceptance of the reliability and importance of the KRAS data took several years to evolve, however, for a variety of reasons. The timeline from the presentation and publication of small, retrospective phase II studies to widespread acceptance of the KRAS predictive value and changes in behavior—specifically, modifications of ongoing national trials in advanced/metastatic CRC, changes in national guidelines and practice patterns, and adjustments to the labeled indications for the monoclonal antibodies—was lengthy. In this commentary, we discuss whether or not the process of data disclosure regarding KRAS status and treatment of advanced CRC patients was effective in permitting timely decisions regarding ongoing publicly funded clinical trials and whether or not such decisions were rational and ethical. The overall goals are to highlight lessons learned regarding early disclosure of clinical trial results, as well as vetting and adoption of new scientific data, and to propose modifications for handling similar situations in the future.
Comparison of Clinical Subgroup aCGH Profiles through Pseudolikelihood Ratio Tests
Authors: Engler David , Shen Yiping , Gusella James , Betensky Rebecca A.
Published: July 2011

Array-based Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) is a microarray-based technology that assists in identification of DNA sequence copy number changes across the genome. Examination of differences in instability phenotype, or pattern of copy number alterations, between cancer subtypes can aid in classification of cancers and lead to better understanding of the underlying cytogenic mechanism. Instability phenotypes are composed of a variety of copy number alteration features including height or magnitude of copy number alteration level, frequency of transition between copy number states such as gain and loss, and total number of altered clones or probes. That is, instability phenotype is multivariate in nature. Current methods of instability phenotype assessment, however, are limited to univariate measures and are therefore limited in both sensitivity and interpretability. In this paper, a novel method of instability assessment is presented that is based on the Engler et al. (2006) pseudolikelhood approach for aCGH data analysis. Through use of a pseudolikelihood ratio test (PLRT), more sensitive assessment of instability phenotype differences between cancer subtypes is possible. Evaluation of the PLRT method is conducted through analysis of a meningioma data set and through simulation studies. Results are shown to be more accurate and more easily interpretable than current measures of instability assessment.
Review of Security and Emergency Planning for Water and Wastewater Utilities
Authors: Claborn David M.
Published: July 2011

Author David M. Claborn reviews Security and Emergency Planning for Water and Wastewater Utilities by Stanley States
Oxalate Nephropathy Associated with Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Cartery Claire , Faguer Stanislas , Karras Alexandre , Cointault Olivier , Buscail Louis , Modesto Anne , Ribes David , Rostaing Lionel , Chauveau Dominique , Giraud Patrick
Published: July 2011

Background and objectives

Enteric overabsorption of oxalate may lead to hyperoxaluria and subsequent acute oxalate nephritis (AON). AON related to chronic pancreatitis is a rare and poorly described condition precluding early recognition and treatment.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We collected the clinical characteristics, treatment, and renal outcome of 12 patients with chronic pancreatitis–associated AON followed in four French renal units.

Results

Before AON, mild to moderate chronic kidney disease was present in all patients, diabetes mellitus in eight (insulin [n = 6]; oral antidiabetic drugs [n = 2]), and known chronic pancreatitis in only eight. At presentation, pancreas imaging showed gland atrophy/heterogeneity, Wirsung duct dilation, calcification, or pseudocyst. Renal findings consisted of rapidly progressive renal failure with tubulointerstitial profile. Acute modification of glomerular filtration preceded the AON (i.e., diarrhea and diuretics). Increase in urinary oxalate excretion was found in all tested patients and hypocalcemia in nine (<1.5 mmol/L in four patients). Renal biopsy showed diffuse crystal deposits, highly suggestive of oxalate crystals, with tubular necrosis and interstitial inflammatory cell infiltrates. Treatment consisted of pancreatic enzyme supplementation, oral calcium intake, and an oxalate-free diet in all patients and renal replacement therapy in five patients. After a median follow-up of 7 months, three of 12 patients reached end-stage renal disease.

Conclusion

AON is an under-recognized severe crystal-induced renal disease with features of tubulointerstitial nephritis that may occur in patients with a long history of chronic pancreatitis or reveal the pancreatic disease. Extrinsic triggering factors should be prevented.
Cardiac Geometry in Children Receiving Chronic Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Bakkaloglu Sevcan A. , Borzych Dagmara , Soo Ha Il , Serdaroglu Erkin , Büscher Rainer , Salas Paulina , Patel Hiren , Drozdz Dorota , Vondrak Karel , Watanabe Andreia , Villagra Jorge , Yavascan Onder , Valenzuela Maria , Gipson Deborah , Ng K.H. , Warady Bradley A. , Schaefer Franz
Published: July 2011

Background and objectives

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an independent risk factor and an intermediate end point of dialysis-associated cardiovascular comorbidity. We utilized a global pediatric registry to assess the prevalence, incidence, and predictors of LVH as well as its evolution in the longitudinal follow-up in dialyzed children.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Cross-sectional echocardiographic, clinical, and biochemical data were evaluated in 507 children on peritoneal dialysis (PD), and longitudinal data were evaluated in 128 patients. The 95th percentile of LV mass index relative to height age was used to define LVH.

Results

The overall LVH prevalence was 48.1%. In the prospective analysis, the incidence of LVH developing de novo in patients with normal baseline LV mass was 29%, and the incidence of regression from LVH to normal LV mass 40% per year on PD. Transformation to and regression from concentric LV geometry occurred in 36% and 28% of the patients, respectively. Hypertension, high body mass index, use of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, renal disease other than hypo/dysplasia, and hyperparathyroidism were identified as independent predictors of LVH. The use of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) antagonists and high total fluid output (sum of urine and ultrafiltration) were protective from concentric geometry. The risk of LVH at 1 year was increased by higher systolic BP standard deviation score and reduced in children with renal hypo/dysplasia.

Conclusions

Using height-adjusted left ventricular mass index reference data, LVH is highly prevalent but less common than previously diagnosed in children on PD. Renal hypo/dysplasia is protective from LVH, likely because of lower BP and polyuria. Hypertension, fluid overload, and hyperparathyroidism are modifiable determinants of LVH.
Geographic and Educational Factors and Risk of the First Peritonitis Episode in Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Study (BRAZPD) Patients
Authors: Martin Luis C. , Caramori Jacqueline C.T. , Fernandes Natalia , Divino-Filho Jose C. , Pecoits-Filho Roberto , Barretti Pasqual
Published: July 2011

Background and objectives

Peritonitis remains as the most frequent cause of peritoneal dialysis (PD) failure, impairing patient's outcome. No large multicenter study has addressed socioeconomic, educational, and geographic issues as peritonitis risk factors in countries with a large geographic area and diverse socioeconomic conditions, such as Brazil.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Incident PD patients recruited from 114 dialysis centers and reporting to BRAZPD, a multicenter observational study, from December 2004 through October 2007 were included. Clinical, dialysis-related, demographic, and socioeconomic variables were analyzed. Patients were followed up until their first peritonitis. Cox proportional model was used to determine independent factors associated with peritonitis.

Results

In a cumulative follow-up of 2032 patients during 22.026 patient-months, 474 (23.3%) presented a first peritonitis episode. In contrast to earlier findings, PD modality, previous hemodialysis, diabetes, gender, age, and family income were not risk predictors. Factors independently associated with increased hazard risk were lower educational level, non-white race, region where patients live, shorter distance from dialysis center, and lower number of patients per center.

Conclusions

Educational level and geographic factors as well as race and center size are associated with risk for the first peritonitis, independent of socioeconomic status, PD modality, and comorbidities.
Journal Rankings: Positioning the Field of Educational Research and Educational Academics
Authors: Hardy Ian , Heimans Stephen , Lingard Bob
Published: July 2011

This article explores the way in which journal ranking processes in education impact upon the field of education and educational researchers. The article draws upon the recent moves to rank order journals in academic disciplines/domains of research in Australia through the introduction of the ERA – Excellence in Research for Australia – as a means of evaluating academic work. Drawing upon an analysis of the specific ordering of ‘leading’ journals in education according to the ERA and the national locations of journal editors, the article focuses on how these processes of ‘academic accountancy’ have implications for the field of educational research, as well as for individual academics measured and monitored through this process. The research demonstrates how already privileged Anglo-US research and research outlets continue to be consecrated and legitimated at the expense of more local and alternative programs and outlets. The article suggests that the push to manage and measure research productivity, taken up in policy within and across specific nation states (in this case, Australia), ignores the breadth of existing research within the field of educational research and potentially narrows the nature of the research undertaken by individual academics and reduces the potential publication outlets, thereby contributing to the recalibration and repositioning of academic work.
The Power of the Code: Publication and Research Paradigms
Authors: Jansen Hans , Watts Michael F.
Published: July 2011

Top-ranked international journals typically require authors to write in English and this can present problems for speakers of other languages. The authors use this concern with linguistic codes as a metaphor for the dominance of particular research paradigms and the consequent difficulties of recognising heterodox paradigms. The importance of international journals is recognised but, through deconstructive and destabilising analyses, the authors consider the implications of this for academics using non-traditional approaches to research. The orthodoxy of positivistic research is considered in terms of traditional quantitative and qualitative research paradigms. The authors then address the importance of critical pedagogies and the problem of having appropriate research paradigms acknowledged in the top-ranked journals which signify the norms of educational research. The article focuses on educational research in the Netherlands, but has significance for all academics who do not speak English as a first language and for those who use alternative research paradigms.
Physical concept of shear fracture mesomechanism and its applications
Authors: Dzidowski Edward
Published: July 2011

The key objective of the present paper is an attempt to create an interface between the existing inconsistent views on the microscopic and macroscopic aspects of the mechanism of plastic deformation and shear fracture. This will be enabled by a focus on the course and effects of the evolution of dislocation structure, and will consist in considering an indirect, i.e. a mesoscopic scale of the discussed phenomena. Thanks to this, a synergy between the mechanisms of deformation and fracture of materials will be proven, which will provide an opportunity for a smooth transfer from the microscopic, through mesoscopic, to macroscopic scale of the analysed phenomena. This in turn will offer an opportunity to define and use the new criteria for controlling the mechanism of shear fracture. These criteria will be applicable to the complete range of temperatures and strain rates which are typical of metal working processes. Some examples of how these criteria may be applied in order to optimise the parameters of metal working will also be provided. These examples have made it possible to prove that the physical approach to shear fracture mesomechanism offers much broader cognitive and utilitarian opportunities than the existing purely mathematical methods. This is due to the fact that the physical approach allows for a deeper understanding of shear fracture meso- and macromechanism, and generates new criteria controlling this mechanism.
Catalogue of the J-Q trajectories for CC(T) and SEN(T) specimens in tension
Authors: Graba Marcin
Published: July 2011

In this paper a short theoretical background about elastic-plastic fracture mechanics is presented and the O’Dowd-Shih theory is discussed. Using FEM, the values of the Q-stress determined for various elastic-plastic materials for two specimens in tension — SEN(T) specimen and CC(T) specimen are presented. The influence of geometry of the specimen, crack length and material properties (work-hardening exponent and yield stress) on the Q-parameter are tested. The numerical results were approximated by closed form formulas. The results are summarized in a catalogue of the Q-stress value, which may be used in engineering analysis for calculation of the real fracture toughness and the stress distribution near crack tip.
Numerical analysis of composite STEEL-CONCRETE SECTIONS using integral equation of Volterra
Authors: Partov Doncho , Kantchev Vesselin
Published: July 2011

The paper presents analysis of the stress and deflections changes due to creep in statically determinate composite steel-concrete beam. The mathematical model involves the equation of equilibrium, compatibility and constitutive relationship, i.e. an elastic law for the steel part and an integral-type creep law of Boltzmann — Volterra for the concrete part. On the basis of the theory of the viscoelastic body of Arutyunian-Trost-Bažant for determining the redistribution of stresses in beam section between concrete plate and steel beam with respect to time “t”, two independent Volterra integral equations of the second kind have been derived. Numerical method based on linear approximation of the singular kernal function in the integral equation is presented. Example with the model proposed is investigated.

The creep functions is suggested by the model CEB MC90-99 and the “ACI 209R-92 model. The elastic modulus of concrete Ec(t) is assumed to be constant in time ‘t’. The obtained results from the both models are compared.
Theoretical Analysis of Gas Turbine Blades by Finite Element Method
Authors: Deepanraj B. , Lawrence P.
Published: July 2011

Gas turbine is an important functional part of many applications. Cooling of blades has been a major concern since they are in a high temperature environment. Various techniques have been proposed for the cooling of blades and one such technique is to have axial holes along the blade span. Finite element analysis is used to analyze thermal and structural performance due to the loading condition, with material properties of Titanium- Aluminum Alloy. Six different models with different number of holes (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12) where analyzed in this paper to find out the optimum number of holes for good performance. In Finite element analysis, first thermal analysis followed by structural analysis is carried out. Graphs plotted for temperature distribution for existing design (12 holes) and for 8 holes against time. 2D and 3D model of the blade with cooling passages are shown. Using ANSYS, bending stress, deflection, temperature distribution for number of holes are analyzed. Results have been discussed and we found that when the numbers of holes are increased in the blade, the temperature distribution falls down. For the blade configuration with 8 holes, the temperature near to the required value i.e., 800oC is obtained. Thus a turbine blade with 8 holes configuration is found to be the optimum solution.Keywords: Gas turbine blade; Stress; Deflection; Temperature distributionDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5092Journal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page : 1-11Uploaded Date: 19 July, 2011
Experimental Performance Analysis for 2G/3G Cellular Networks based on Mobile Terminals
Authors: Jiménez-Licea M. , Vidal-Beltrán S. , López-Bonilla J.
Published: July 2011

This work presents the experimental results related to performance measurements in GSM, EDGE and WCDMA cellular data networks. Two Mobile Terminals were used, in order to take place the scenario. Power Level, Power vs Time, Modulation Analysis, Modulation Spectrum, (BER) Bit Error Rate and Throughput were considered in this analysis.Keywords: Component; GSM; EDGE; WCDMA; BER/BLER; ThroughputDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5094Journal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page : 25-38Uploaded Date: 19 July, 2011
Stress-Strain and Strength Behavior of Undrained Organic Soil in Kupondol, Kathmandu
Authors: Khadka Padma Bahadur
Published: July 2011

The Kathmandu valley is mostly composed of an organic layer locally known as Kalimati, meaning black soil in Nepali. In spite of the unsuitability of organic soil as foundation subsoil, due to its high compressibility and low strength, many civil engineering structures (i.e. residential buildings and high-rise commercial buildings) are being built at an alarming rate. Even more alarming is the fact that no systematic and comprehensive studies have ever been conducted on the geotechnical properties of this highly problematic soil deposit. Geotechnical investigations that have been performed for construction projects, including those structures whose foundation lies on Kalimati soil, typically contain data on general properties of the soil and only to some extend the consolidation and the shear parameter obtained from unconfined compression tests and direct shear tests. As the local name indicates, these soils are black in color, having a high water content and high liquid limit and they are hard when dry but soft when wet. The organic soil is found at different depths and different thicknesses. Sometimes it exists too deep to have a significant effect on the foundation. In many areas it exists at a shallow depth with significant thickness, thus having considerable effect on the foundation of the structure above it. While existing data provides useful information for the design of foundations, almost no data exists on the undrained behavior of the soil, which foundation design on this type of soil should be based on. There is a serious need for research work related to behavior of undrained organic soil deposits in the Kathmandu. Specifically pore pressure, shear strength and stress-strain characteristics, especially under triaxial compression.Key Words: Organic deposit; Foundation; Engineering properties; Kalimati; Geotechnical investigationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5101Journal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page: 113-118Uploaded Date: 20 July, 2011
Field Straw Management – A Techno Economic Perspectives
Authors: Mangaraj S. , Kulkarni S. D.
Published: July 2011

The study was conducted in the combine harvested paddy (variety-Kranti) and wheat (HI-8498) field. The crop gatherer cum baler was used for collection and baling of crop residues left in the field. Collection and gathering losses were determined for given condition and quantity of straw in the field. Moisture content of loose paddy and wheat straw was 15% and 8% respectively. Field operation was conducted at forward speed of 2.7 km/h and with collecting width of 1240 mm. The number of twine tied bales obtained per h was 181 and 87 with bale density of 200 and 102 kg/m3 and bale mass of 22 and 10 kg respectively for rice and wheat crop. The collection and gathering losses were 18.40% for rice and 41.12 % for wheat. The cost of producing one twine tied bale was Rs.2.75 and Rs.5.00 for rice and wheat respectively. At nominal price of rice straw (Rs. 0.25/kg) and wheat straw (Rs. 0.75/kg) the net income from straw collection and baling using the machine was Rs. 607.00 per ha and Rs. 235.00 per ha for rice straw and wheat straw respectively. Straw management in the combine harvested fields by straw collection and baling in the field is considered as an appropriate and economically viable option for timely use of the field for subsequent sowing.Key words: Straw management; Techno economicDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5107Journal of the Institute of EngineeringVol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page: 153-159Uploaded Date: 20 July, 2011
Preparation of Activated Carbon from Lapsi Seed Stone and its Application for the Removal of Arsenic from Water
Authors: Rajbhandari Rinita , Shrestha Lok Kumar , Pradhananga Raja Ram
Published: July 2011

In this paper, Guaranteed Services Token (GuST) protocol for integrated Adsorption of arsenic by activated carbon prepared from locally available Lapsi seed stone is presented. Activated carbon has been prepared by carbonization of Lapsi seed stone (chorespondias axillaris, Roxb) in a nitrogen atmosphere at 400°C. Chemical activation using a 1:1 ratio of Lapsi seed stone powder and zinc chloride followed by iron impregnation greatly enhanced the arsenic adsorption capacity for adsorption of arsenic from ground water. Activated carbon of dose 2g/L decreased the concentration of arsenic in water from 800 ppb to below the interim guide line value of 50 ppb of arsenic in drinking water of Nepal. The iodine number of raw carbon is quite low but chemical activation using 1:1 Lapsi seed powder and zinc chloride at 400°C increased the iodine number to 791mg/g. Iron impregnated activated carbon prepared from locally available Lapsi seed stones can be used in community level at point- of- use for treatment of arsenic contaminated ground water.Key words: activated carbon; Arsenic removal; Adsorption; Chorespondias axillaris; Iron impregnated carbonDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5113Journal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page: 211-218Uploaded Date: 20 July, 2011
Study on Aerosol Optical Depth in Winter and Summer Season in Bhaktapur
Authors: Sharma Niranjan Prasad , Sapkota Bal Krishna , Bhattarai Binod , Kjeldstad Berit
Published: July 2011

Aerosol optical depth in winter and summer season, 2009 was studied in Bhaktapur (Kausaltar). Spectral aerosol optical depth (AOD) measurements were estimated from a Microtops II Sun Photometer. The results indicated high values in summer and low values in winter. It also showed that AOD is larger in shorter wavelength and gradually decreases towards longer wavelength. The increasing value of AOD in summer season may be due to the accumulation of high speed dust particles. The lower values in winter months are due to the reduction of bigger particles. The spectral dependence of AOD on January 27 was found to be 0.64, 0.52, 0.48 and 0.35. The AOD at 340 nm in January and July were 0.63 and 0.62, respectively. The maximum and minimum value of AOD at 340 nm in the month of April and August were recorded as 1.62 and 0.56, respectively.Keywords: Sun photometer; Aerosol; Aerosol optical depth; Angstrom parameters; IrradianceDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5122Journal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page: 269-276Uploaded Date: 20 July, 2011
Total Column Ozone over Kathmandu using OMI Satellite
Authors: Bhattarai Binod Kumar
Published: July 2011

Not available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5123Key words : OMI SatelliteJournal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page: 277-283Uploaded Date: 20 July, 2011
Study of Global Solar Radiation Potential and Ground Level Albedo at Benevento Italy
Authors: Poudyal Khem N. , Daponte Pasquale , Rapone Serjio , Bhattari Binod , Sapkota BalKrishna , Kjeldstad Berit
Published: July 2011

Global solar irradiance iwas measured by a calibrated pyranometer (model LP PYRA 05 Delta Ohm ISO 9060) at about 1 meter off the roof top of building of the University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy (latitude 41°08' N longitude 14°45' E and 150.0 m ), from April to June 2010. This site is about 50.0 km north east of the Naples costal area so there are fluctuations in the local weather condition. Still, there was a significant amount of intensity in global solar irradiation found. The maximum solar radiation of about 659.47 W/m2 was found at 11:00 AM with clear sky conditions on May 2010 at Benevento, Italy. The maximum and minimum value of ground level albedo, 0.74 and 0.32, was found at 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM respectively. This indicates that the daily measured data of horizontal global solar radiation decreases with an increase in ground level albedo. Besides this, we concluded that there was a high level of fluctuation in the measured value of solar irradiance due to local weather conditions. The results of the research can be utilized for the conformation of variation of solar radiation due to wind speed, humidity and environmental pollution. This study will help to estimate the global solar irradiance potential available to solar energy systems at Benevento, where the average global soar irradiance is estimated to be about 5.0 kWh/m2.Key words: Global irradiance; Reflected irradiance; Albedo; Atmospheric pollution; PotentialDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5124Journal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page: 284-290Uploaded Date: 20 July, 2011
Problem Based Learning in Engineering at the Institute of Engineering: Prospects cum Challenges
Authors: Joshi Rajendra Kumar , Joshi Milly
Published: July 2011

Despite having undergone significant transformations over the last few decades, educational institutes of Nepal are prone to using traditional teaching methods to most extent. This is particularly true of Tribhuvan University. Nevertheless there are all the same few renowned institutes of Tribhuvan University which are not merely open to educational innovations but have strong predisposition to respond positively to the augmenting demand of time vis-à-vis adoption of new educational approaches cum strategies. Institute of Engineering (IOE) is one among them. Albeit Problem Based Learning (PBL) Approach is apparently a new approach in Nepal’s engineering educational scenario, IOE has brought similar approach to bear upon its educational practices in some courses. However, IOE has yet to design fully fledged student-centric problem based curricula over time, considering the efficacy and efficiency of Project based approach in enhancing professional skills, technical expertise and profound understanding of students. This paper aims at delineating on the prospects cum challenges regarding the implementation of PBL approach in engineering programs at the IOE. However, the foremost section of the paper will briefly scrutinize the overall structure and situation of education in Nepal. The second section of the paper will comprehensively outline the educational system and courses offered at the IOE from the scratch. The most important of all, third section will focus upon the prospects and relevancy of introducing PBL component in engineering courses at the IOE. This section will simultaneously deal with potential impediments or constraints to be encountered during the process of implementing PBL approach. The final section of the paper will attempt to elicit a cogent conclusion with viable solutions and tentative plan to implement PBL approach effectively at the IOE against the backdrop of varied constraints.Key words: Faculties; Prospects; Impediments; Affiliated; ConstituentDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i1-2.5125Journal of the Institute of Engineering Vol. 8, No. 1&2, 2010/2011Page: 291-300Uploaded Date: 20 July, 2011
Explaining Declining Social Assistance Participation Rates: A Longitudinal Analysis of Manitoba Administrative and Population Data
Authors: Stevens Harvey , Simpson Wayne , Frankel Sid
Published: July 2011

This paper extends analyses of the declining social assistance participation rate in Canada since the mid-1990s using rich Manitoba administrative data for the period since 1999. We examine trends in Manitoba to mid-2008, separately analyze the entry and continuation rates, and include for the first time information about the growing number of adults with a disability on social assistance. Our results show that the declining participation rate is due entirely to a declining entry rate and that the continuation rate has actually risen since 1999, mainly because of the dramatic growth in the number of adults with a disability on social assistance but also because of the rising duration of spells on assistance by those without a disability. Our results raise questions about the policy, pursued in all jurisdictions in Canada, that keeps social assistance benefits low to discourage welfare use.
The Redistributional Impact of Canada's Employment Insurance Program, 1992–2002
Authors: Finnie Ross , Irvine Ian
Published: July 2011

For a decade or so starting in the early 1990s, Canada's major income support programs underwent substantial reform. Meanwhile, the economy first lingered in a deep recession and then recovered with a period of strong growth. This paper focuses on how the distributional impact of Employment Insurance (EI) evolved during this period. We find that EI was strongly redistributive throughout the whole period with respect to the earnings of individuals, and somewhat less so for family income. But we also show that the distribution of benefits and contributions changed substantially over time, becoming less redistributive. Somewhat counter-intuitively, both the benefit and contribution sides of the program are shown to be redistributive, even though the contribution structure is regressive. These findings are relevant in the current context, as the economy struggles with a combination of high unemployment and fiscal pressures on government spending.
Ten Years After: Sex and Salaries at a Canadian University
Authors: Brown Laura K. , Troutt Elizabeth , Prentice Susan
Published: July 2011

This paper examines salaries at the University of Manitoba to determine whether a 1994 remedy, paid in response to a 1993 salary study that demonstrated a gap between the salaries of males and females, has eliminated these differences. We use 1993 and 2003 data to approximate the earlier analysis, and apply a Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition to examine the evolution in the wage gap between time periods. Our results indicate that the gap remains largely unchanged in magnitude, but its determinants have shifted somewhat. Women's overrepresentation at lower-paying ranks and underrepresentation at the highest-paying ranks, as well as differences in highest degree and experience explain much of the wage gap.
Views and Reviews
Authors: Alvarez Natalie
Published: July 2011

Introduction to Views and Reviews, by Natalie Alvarez

Unclassified and Controvertible: The Edward Curtis Project and Beyond Eden in Vancouver, 2010, by Beverly Yhap

Many Stories, Many Voices: Alberta Aboriginal Arts, by Scott Sharplin

Humanizing Strangers Near and Far: Ethics and Irony in The Middle Place and A Taste of Empire, by Barry Freeman

The Politics of Distraction: Spectatorial Freedom and (dis)Enfranchisement in Toneelgroep's Roman Tragedies, by Natalie Corbett and Keren Zaiontz

Dancing in the Dark: Tu vois ce que je veux dire?, by Natalie Rewa
Activist Awareness in the Theatre of the Oppressed Classroom
Authors: Shawyer Susanne
Published: July 2011

This article explores how Theatre of the Oppressed techniques can be used to train theatre students as activists. The author focuses on a case study of a university-level Theatre of the Oppressed class, and combines descriptions of class pedagogy with student responses to a self-reflection survey about attitudes toward and understanding of activism as a social and political activity.
Applied Theatre and/as Activism
Authors: Prendergast Monica
Published: July 2011

Applied theatre is a growing field of theatre practice focused on working in extra-theatrical settings with community participants. The Applied Theatre program at the University of Victoria emerged from the former Theatre/Drama in Education program offered in the Department of Theatre. While the new Applied Theatre program has broader interests than educational applications of theatre, there is a continuing commitment to theatre for social change that can be seen in interviews with eight present and former faculty members and graduate students. Activist pedagogy, in this context, is centred around moving from the classroom studio out into the community.
When the Audience is Ourselves: From Intellectual Argument to Visceral Experience
Authors: Selman Jan
Published: July 2011

This article reflects on a critical moment within a graduate course on using theatre for transformation. The course married critical readings and discussions on community and change-focused theatre with extensive simulations and other experiential opportunities in leading, creating and experiencing participant-based, activist theatre. One of these events, which engaged students with creating and performing participatory theatre, shook us up and led to some new understandings of how the use of theatre to study theatre can creep up and wallop one, making “education” highly personal, politicized and urgent. This event leads to a discussion of the values of personalizing education and creating “disturbance” as part of educational processes in all theatre classrooms. There are ethical considerations to reflect on, which challenge instructors and students, and possible implications for theatre classrooms that focus on acting and directing are considered.
Making it Up as We Go Along: Improvisation and Environmental Education
Authors: Lane Julia
Published: July 2011

Improvisation is often associated with shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where the goal is to make the audience laugh. This paper expands the concept of theatrical improvisation in line with naturalist Gary Paul Nabhan's understanding of life on earth as “the Great Improvisation” (9-10). Such a perspective sheds light on the benefits of pairing exercises derived from theatrical improvisation with environmental education (EE). Nabhan's epithet draws attention to the indeterminacy, the interconnection and the complexity shared by ecosystems and improv. troupes. This paper discusses the ways in which theatrical improvisation can encourage cooperation, collaborative learning, commitment to the moment and enjoyment in environmental education.
The ICE Approach: Saving the World One Broken Toaster at a Time
Authors: Renyk Grahame , Stephenson Jenn
Published: July 2011

In this article, Grahame Renyk and Jenn Stephenson (Drama Department, Queen's University) discuss their use of ICE in a first-year theatre studies classroom to foster active (and activist) student engagement with learning. Developed by Sue Fostaty-Young and Robert Wilson, ICE (Ideas, Connections, Extensions) is primarily a tool for assessing progressive mastery of skills or concepts. Learners begin with Ideas – basic facts, definitions or rules. They then move on to make Connections between these foundational bits, identifying cause-and-effect relations or other patterns. At the last stage, they reach Extensions where they are able to synthesize material to create new models and apply these models beyond the original context. Although Renyk and Stephenson use ICE for assessment, they discuss here how ICE can be employed in assignment design to structure student engagement with the principal goal of challenging learners to take initiative and pleasure in their own learning.
Surgical management of coccidioidomycosis of the spine
Authors: Kakarla Udaya K. , Kalani M. Yashar S. , Sharma Giriraj K. , Sonntag Volker K. H. , Theodore Nicholas
Published: July 2011

Object

Coccidioides immitis is a dimorphous fungus endemic in the southwestern US and northern Mexico. While its primary presentation is pulmonary, it can have devastating neurological sequelae.

Methods

The authors provide a retrospective review with long-term follow-up between 1986 and 2008 at a single institution.

Results

The authors identified 27 patients between 13 and 81 years old (mean 41.4 years) with spinal coccidioides who were treated surgically at the Barrow Neurological Institute between 1986 and 2008. There were 24 males (89%) and 3 females (11%). Eleven patients (41%) had cervical spine involvement, 15 (56%) had thoracic involvement, 7 (26%) had lumbar involvement, and 2 (7%) had sacral involvement. All 27 patients presented with localized or radiating pain. Nine patients (33%) had myelopathic symptoms at presentation, 5 (19%) had radiculopathy, 4 (15%) had fever, and 12 (44%) had progressive kyphosis. The disease was most frequently seen among African American patients (14 patients [52%]), followed by Caucasians (5 patients [19%]), Asians (3 patients [11%]), and Hispanics (3 patients [11%]). Ten patients (37%) required multiple operations at the same level. Follow-up was available in 19 patients (70%) (mean 9.8 months, range 1–39 months). Sixteen (84%) of these 19 patients improved from their preoperative baseline states, 1 (5%) was stable on examination, 1 patient's condition (5%) deteriorated compared with the preoperative examination, and 1 patient (5%) died in the postoperative period.

Conclusions

Although spinal involvement of coccidioidomycosis is relatively uncommon, a high index of suspicion and aggressive therapy are warranted to prevent devastating neurological injury, and lifelong antifungal therapy is often warranted.
Chronic cerebellar hemorrhage in spontaneous intracranial hypotension: association with ventral spinal cerebrospinal fluid leaks
Authors: Schievink Wouter I. , Maya M. Marcel , Nuño Miriam
Published: July 2011

Object

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension is an important cause of new-onset daily persistent headache. Cerebellar hemorrhage has been identified as a possible feature of spontaneous intracranial hypotension. The authors reviewed the MR imaging studies from a group of patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension to assess the presence of cerebellar hemorrhage.

Methods

Medical records and radiological images were reviewed in 262 cases involving patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension who had undergone MR imaging of the brain as well as spinal imaging.

Results

Chronic cerebellar hemorrhages were found in 7 (2.7%) of the 262 patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension. These hemorrhages were found in 7 (19.4%) of the 36 patients with a ventral spinal CSF leak and in none of the 226 patients who did not have such a CSF leak (p < 0.0001). The degree of hemosiderin deposits was variable, ranging from mild involvement of the cerebellar folia to widespread superficial siderosis. Only the 1 patient with superficial siderosis had symptoms due to the hemorrhages. The time period between the onset of symptoms due to spontaneous intracranial hypotension and MR imaging examination was significantly longer in those patients with cerebellar hemorrhage than in those with a ventral spinal CSF leak and no evidence for cerebellar hemorrhage (mean 19.6 years vs 2.3 months, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Chronic cerebellar hemorrhage should be included among the manifestations of spontaneous intracranial hypotension. The severity is variable, but the hemorrhage generally is asymptomatic. The underlying spinal CSF leak is ventral and mostly of long duration.
Trends in the treatment of lumbar spine fractures in the United States: a socioeconomics perspective
Authors: Baaj Ali A. , Downes Katheryne , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Uribe Juan S. , Vale Fernando L.
Published: July 2011

Object

The objective of this study was to investigate a national health care database and analyze demographics, hospital charges, and treatment trends of patients diagnosed with lumbar spine fractures in the US over a 5-year period.

Methods

Clinical data were derived from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) for the years 2003 through 2007. The NIS is maintained by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and represents a 20% random stratified sample of all discharges from nonfederal hospitals within the US. Patients with lumbar spine fractures were identified using the appropriate ICD-9-CM code. Data on the number of vertebral body augmentation procedures were also retrieved. National estimates of discharges, hospital charges, discharge patterns, and treatment with spinal fusion trends were retrieved and analyzed.

Results

More than 190,000 records of patients with lumbar spine fractures were abstracted from the database. During the 5-year period, there was a 17% increase in hospitalizations for lumbar spine fractures. This was associated with a 27% increase in hospital charges and a 55% increase in total national charges (both adjusted for inflation). The total health care bill associated with lumbar spine fractures in 2007 exceeded 1 billion US dollars. During this same time period, there was a 24% increase in spinal fusions for lumbar fractures, which was associated with a 15% increase in hospital charges. The ratio of spinal fusions to hospitalizations (surgical rate) during this period, however, was stable with an average of 7.4% over the 5-year period. There were an estimated 13,000 vertebral body augmentation procedures for nonpathological fractures performed in 2007 with a total national bill of 450 million US dollars.

Conclusions

An increasing trend of hospitalizations, surgical treatment, and charges associated with lumbar spine fractures was observed between 2003 and 2007 on a national level. This trend, however, does not appear to be as steep as that of surgical utilization in degenerative spine disease. Furthermore, the ratio of spinal fusions to hospitalizations for lumbar fractures appears to be stable, possibly indicating no significant changes in indications for surgical intervention over the time period studied.
Outcomes of fusion surgery for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the thoracic spine: a multicenter retrospective survey
Authors: Matsumoto Morio , Toyama Yoshiaki , Chikuda Hirotaka , Takeshita Katsushi , Kato Tsuyoshi , Shindo Shigeo , Abumi Kuniyoshi , Takahata Masahiko , Nohara Yutaka , Taneichi Hiroshi , Tomita Katsuro , Kawahara Norio , Imagama Shiro , Matsuyama Yukihiro , Yamazaki Masashi , Okawa Akihiko
Published: July 2011

Object

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of fusion surgery in patients with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament in the thoracic spine (T-OPLL) and to identify factors significantly related to surgical outcomes.

Methods

The study included 76 patients (34 men and 42 women with a mean age of 56.3 years) who underwent fusion surgery for T-OPLL at 7 spine centers during the 5-year period from 2003 to 2007. The authors evaluated the patient demographic data, underlying disease, preoperative comorbidities, history of spinal surgery, radiological findings, surgical methods, surgical outcomes, and complications. Surgical outcomes were assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scale score for thoracic myelopathy (11 points) and the recovery rate.

Results

The mean JOA scale score was 4.6 ± 2.1 points preoperatively and 7.7 ± 2.5 points at the time of the final follow-up examination, yielding a mean recovery rate of 45.4% ± 39.1%. The recovery rates by surgical method were 38.5% ± 37.8% for posterior decompression and fusion, 65.0% ± 35.6% for anterior decompression and fusion via an anterior approach, 28.8% ± 41.2% for anterior decompression via a posterior approach, and 57.5% ± 41.1% for circumferential decompression and fusion. The recovery rate was significantly higher in patients without diabetes mellitus (DM) than in those with DM. One or more complications were experienced by 31 patients (40.8%), including 20 patients with postoperative neurological deterioration, 7 with dural tears, 5 with epidural hematomas, 4 with respiratory complications, and 10 with other complications.

Conclusions

The outcomes of fusion surgery for T-OPLL were favorable. The absence of DM correlated with better outcomes. However, a high rate of complications was associated with the fusion surgery.