bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histomorphological Profile of Colonoscopic Biopsies and Pattern of Colorectal Carcinoma in Kavre District
Authors: Rajbhandari M , Karmacharya A , Khanal K , Dhakal P , Shrestha R
Published: May 2015

Background Colonoscopy is the method to visualize the mucosa of the entire colon and terminal ileum to detect the intestinal abnormalities and obtain biopsy for definitive diagnosis. For clinical decisions in the diagnosis of various colonic lesions unambiguous interpretation of colorectal biopsies is necessary. Objectives To assess the prevalence pattern of colonic diseases and to correlate the incidence of colorectal carcinoma with age, sex, site and symptoms presented at Dhulikhel Hospital. Methods The materials consisted of 126 biopsies which were submitted to the Department of Pathology, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, during the period of July 2011- July 2012 .Data collected and entered in MS-Excel and were analyzed using SPSS-16. Results Out of 126 colonoscopic biopsies 34(27%) showed chronic nonspecific inflammation, followed by carcinoma 25(19.8%), non-neoplastic polyps 21(16.7%), granulomatous inflammation 14(11.1%), neoplastic polyps 8(6.3%), ulcerative colitis 4(3.2%) Miscellaneous lesions; Acute focal colitis, Eosinophilic colitis were also observed in 19 (15.1%). A higher frequency of colonic diseases in males with a male to female ratio of 1.4:1 and age range of two years to 84 years was observed. Out of 25 patients diagnosed with colorectal carcinoma,48% (n=12) were males and 52% (n=13) were females with a mean age of 55.17 years in men and 59.46 years in females. Male and female ratio among cancer groups was 1:1.08. Total 36% (n=9) were diagnosed with cancer before the age of 50. Out of these nine cases, 6( 66.7%) were males and 3(33.3%) were females. The male and female ratio in younger and older age groups were 2:1 and 1:1.7 . 17( 68%) of the lesions were left sided and 8(32%) were right sided. Below age 50 , left to Right sided lesions in males were 2:1 and in females 1:2. However, above 50 years the ratio among proximal and distal lesions were 5:1 in males and 2.3:1 in females. A statistically significant association was seen between the growth (p=0.000) and per rectal bleeding (p= 0.006) with carcinoma. Conclusion The most prevalent lesion in colorectal biopsies was non-specific colitis followed by carcinoma colon. The incidence of colorectal carcinoma is on rise in Nepalese society. Although colorectal carcinoma is more common in older age group the incidence are also increasing among young especially among women. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12503 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):196-200
Correlations Between Symptoms, Nasal Endoscopy Computed Tomography and Surgical Findings in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Pokharel M , Karki S , Shrestha BL , Shrestha I , Amatya RCM
Published: May 2015

Background Although Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is increasing in prevalence and incidence, its diagnosis and treatment still pose a challenge. The Task Force on rhinosinusitis (TFR) advocates the use of symptom based criteria. However, many otorhinolaryngologists depend on diagnostic nasal endoscopy and computed tomography(CT) of paranasal sinuses for diagnosis of CRS. Computed tomography has been extensively relied upon in confirming the presence of CRS, in assessing severity of disease, surgical planning and management decisions. Despite its widespread use, several studies have failed to correlate findings on CT with symptom severity. Objective To determine the correlations between symptoms described at presentation, radiological findings, endoscopy and extensiveness of surgery. Methods Longitudinal, prospective, analytical study conducted from August 2011 to August 2012 among 87 patients diagnosed as CRS according to the TFR criteria. Symptom, endoscopic, radiological and surgical scoring was done by using Lund and Mackay staging system. Pearson correlation coefficients between scores for symptoms, endoscopy, sinus CT and surgery was determined. Results When overall symptom score was correlated with radiological score and endoscopy score, it was found to be statistically significant (p= <0.01). However, no significant relationship was found between Lund and Mackay symptom and surgery score. Conclusion The symptom criteria used by TFR for CRS diagnosis are not very specific for sinus disease. A detail assessment of the subjective and objective criteria (CT and endoscopy) is necessary for tailoring surgical plan but should not be relied upon for determining the extensiveness of surgical intervention. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12504 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):201-205
Medical Abortion Versus Manual Vacuum Aspiration in a Hilly District Hospital of Eastern Nepal: A Comparative Study
Authors: Panta OB , Bhattarai D , Parajuli N
Published: May 2015

Backgroud Nepal government has approved medical abortion and manual vacuum aspiration for early first trimester pregnancy. Both the procedures have been approved by World Health Organization for use in early first trimester. Objectives The study aims to compare efficacy and safety of medical abortion with surgical abortion in a district hospital of rural eastern Nepal. Method An observational study conducted in district hospital, dhankuta from July 2010 to January 2011. Clients for abortion services were counseled about methods of abortion and were allowed to make decision on their own and classified as medical abortion group (N=48) (receiving 200milligram Mifepristone followed by 800 microgram misoprostol sublingually or vaginally on day two)and manual vacuum aspiration group (N=36). The two groups were compared for rate of complete abortion and other complications and contraception use after procedure. Results Rate of complete abortion was similar in both groups, 95.8% among medical abortion and 97.2% in manual vacuum aspiration. Moderate to severe expulsion bleeding was reported in 91.6% of cases after Medical Abortion but none required medical attention for hemorrhage. Condom was the most preferred contraceptive in medical abortion group and depo provera in manual vacuum aspiration group. Conclusion Medical method of abortion using mifepristone and misoprostol is equally safe and effective as manual vacuum aspiration in rural setting district hospitals of Nepal. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12505 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):206-209
Knowledge and Practices on Preventive Measures of Blood Borne Diseases Among Non-Medical Attendants Working in Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital
Authors: Sanjel S , Tuladhar S , Khanel K
Published: May 2015

Background Blood and certain body fluids pose the greatest threat to health due to sharp injuries spreading blood borne pathogens that cause serious illness when transmitted. Despite the high sickness rate, sanitation staff lacked awareness regarding protections from contacting soiled materials while handling biomedical wastes. Objective The study aims to find out the knowledge and practices on preventive measures of blood borne diseases among non-medical attendants. Method Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to find out the knowledge and practices on preventive measures on blood borne diseases among all the 53 non-medical personnel in Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital. Respondents scoring ≥50% on knowledge score were taken as having adequate knowledge. A Nepali version of pre-tested structured and semi-structured questionnaire was used to conduct interview. Participation in the study was voluntary and written consent was taken before inquiry. Outcomes were measured in both descriptive and inferential ways. Result The adequate knowledge was found among 86.8% of the respondents on the blood borne diseases whereas 50.9% of them had proper practice on it. Although, there is poor positive correlation between the mean knowledge score and literacy, the correlation was significant (r = 0.341, p < 0.05). Alike, the mean practice score and work experience demonstrated significant correlation (r = 0.319, p <0.05). Conclusion Although knowledge score of male was high, female had higher practices score. Both knowledge and practice score increased due to the participation in the training programs and increment in experience. There was significant positive correlation between the mean knowledge score and literacy, and the mean practice score and work experience. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12506 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):210-215
Impact of Patch Testing on Quality of Life in Patients with Hand Eczema: A Follow-up Study
Authors: Agrawal S , Rijal A , Bhattarai S
Published: May 2015

Background Patch testing has previously been shown to influence the quality of life, although a very few studies have shown if this is dependent on the result of the patch tests. Objective To assess the impact of patch testing on the quality of life (QOL) in patients with hand eczema (HE). Methods A total of 50 patients diagnosed of hand eczema at the time of patch testing, aged 16 years and above participated in this study. Detailed demographic information and diagnosis of hand eczema were collected on the day of the patch test. After six weeks, the patients were asked about the hand eczema, knowledge of their allergies and change in their life style to avoid the relevant allergens demonstrated on the patch test. Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) was used to measure the QOL on both occasions. Results The patch test positivity was found in 68% of patients to one or more allergens. The sum score of DLQI at baseline was 12.16 ± 5.58 with median 12.0. HE had most impact on symptoms and feelings. Patients with both positive patch test (mean baseline= 11.94± 5.88; mean at six weeks=2.81± 2.01; P<0.001) and negative patch test (mean baseline=12.63± 5.03; mean at 6 weeks=5.4± 3.56; P=0.001) showed significant improvement in DLQI scores, however it was more improved in patients with positive patch test than in patients with negative patch test. Conclusions Hand eczema had an appreciable impact on the QOL. Patch testing had been beneficial to most patients in improving patient quality of life considerably. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12506 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):216-220
Ultrastructure of Chondrocytes in Osteoarthritic Femoral Articular Cartilage
Authors: Goya Nj , Gupta M , Joshi K
Published: May 2015

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common problem in elderly, but it is not an inevitable feature of ageing. About 80-90% of individuals of both sexes have radiographic evidence of OA by the time they reach an age of 65. But not all of them have the symptoms like pain and decreased joint motion. Objective The objective of the present study was conducted to find out whether the osteoarthritic changes in human articular cartilage are similar to the ageing process or not. Methods Femoral articular cartilage specimens obtained from 13 osteoarthritic patients (52-80years) undergoing total knee replacement and 9 cadavers of same age group (50-80years) (control) were processed and studied under electron microscope. The ultrastructure of the cartilage from the two groups was compared with each other. Results Under the electron microscope, articular cartilage from control group had chondrocytes having a secretary cell characteristic with prominent nucleus and well developed organelles. In osteoarthritic cartilage, degenerating or necrotic chondrocytes were found. Nuclei of these chondrocytes appeared lobulated or indented. Chondrocytes below the fibrillated surface had dilated and irregular endoplasmic reticulum. Electron dense lipid deposits in the extracelluar matrix as well as intracytoplasmic glycogen deposits were much increased in osteoarthritic cartilage as compared to the control group. Amount of perinuclear intracytoplasmic fine filaments was also increased in the chondrocytes of osteoarthritic cartilage. Conclusion Ultrastructural findings of the osteoarthritic articular cartilage were much different from the ageing non-osteoarthritic cartilage. Hence, OA should be considered a specific process and not simply an inevitable feature of ageing. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12507 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):221-225
Medication Adherence to Oral Hypoglycemic Agents Among Type II Diabetic Patients and Their Clinical Outcomes with Special Reference to Fasting Blood Glucose and Glycosylated Hemoglobin Levels
Authors: Shrestha SS , Shakya R , Karmacharya BM , Thapa P
Published: May 2015

Background Oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) are the major treatment for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). However, non-adherence to OHAs remains as one of the main reasons for poor glycemic control. Objectives To assess the adherence pattern to OHAs and clinical outcomes with special reference to fasting blood glucose (FBG) level and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Methods Informed consent was obtained from patients fulfilling the criteria and from the patient party in case of incapacitated patients. Information was obtained by interviewing them and filled in the appropriate questionnaire. All the medical information of the patients was obtained from the medical case records and laboratory reports. Results OHAs had been discontinued by 25% of patients. Overall 38% had ever discontinued and/ or often missed OHAs. Intentional discontinuation of OHAs attributed for 72% of the patients, followed by forgetfulness (42.9%), carelessness (30.6%), and hypoglycemia, (24%). There were 50.50% patients who had uncontrolled FBG (>130 mg/dl) level and 39% had uncontrolled HbA1c (≥ 7%) level. Taking reference age group 51-60 years, control of FBG level was found to be statistically associated with the decreasing age group (p = 0.006, OR = 4.8) as well as increasing age group (p = 0.008, OR = 4.034). There was significant association between controlled HbA1c level and patients’ knowledge about the precautions to be taken while using OHAs (p = 0.044, OR = 4). However, there was no significant association between glycemic control and OHAs adherence. Conclusion Majority of the patients who had missed OHAs attributed it to forgetfulness. Hypoglycemia may also be one of the contributing factors for poor adherence to OHAs. However no association was found between adherence and various other factors like age groups, treatment complexity, health literacy and social or family support. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12508 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):226-232
The Ratio of Aspartate Aminotransferase to Alanine Aminotransferase (AST/ALT): the Correlation of Value with Underlying Severity of Alcoholic Liver Disease
Authors: Gurung RB , Purbe B , Gyawali P , Risal P
Published: May 2015

Background Alcoholic liver disease is one of the most frequently diagnosed liver problems in the hospitalized patients in most tertiary care hospitals all over the world .The diagnosis of alcoholic liver disease is most of the time clinical. The AST/ALT ratio is a useful and reliable biochemical marker of liver injury due to alcohol. Whether the value of AST/ALT ratio correlates with clinical severity has not been studied. Objectives To study values of AST/ALT ratio in correlation with clinical severity of illness due to alcoholic liver disease using Child-Pugh’s grading. Methods This is a retrospective study. Inpatient records of all the patients admitted with diagnosis of alcoholic liver disease from July 2009 to 2011 June were analyzed. Data from 174 patients with the diagnosis of alcoholic liver disease - alcoholic hepatitis or alcoholic cirrhosis were retrieved; out of 174 patients, 138 were eligible for the study. The AST/ALT ratio and Child’s grading of all the patients were calculated from the documented biochemical and clinical parameters on admission. Demographic profile of all the patients were also recorded and analyzed. The data was analyzed using software SPPSS 16 version. Results A total of 138 patients diagnosed as alcoholic liver disease since July 2009 to June 2011 were analyzed. The male-female ratio was found to be 5.34: 1.The mean age of the patients at diagnosis was found to be 47.58 ± 12.83 years. Among 138 patients, Mongolian were found to have the highest prevalence of alcoholic liver disease (38.8%), followed by Newars ( 33.6%), Brahmin and Chhetri (19.1%) and Dalit (7.2%). With respect to AST/ALT ratio and Child’s grading of ALD, the mean AST/ALT ratio was found to be 3.03 ± 2.24 in those patients who had Chlild’s grade C; likewise the mean AST/ALT ratio was 2.28 ± 1.14, and 1.68 ± 0.83 in patients with Child B and Child A respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12511 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):233-236
Role of Ultrasound as Compared with ERCP in Patient With Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Karki S , Joshi KS , Regmi S , Gurung RB , Malla B
Published: May 2015

Background The diagnosis of obstructive jaundice relies on proper history taking, clinical examination, laboratory investigations and different non invasive imaging modalities like Ultrasonography (USG), Cholangio Computed Tomography (CCT), Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) with Magnetic Resonance Cholangio Pancreatography (MRCP) and invasive modalities like endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) and percutaneous trans hepatic cholangiography (PTC). Objective To compare the role of ultrasound with endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and to determine the major causes of obstructive jaundice in our prospect. Methods This was a prospective, analytical study conducted on 88 patients presenting to Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging at Dhulikhel Hospital-Kathmandu University hospital from March 2011 to August 2012 with clinical diagnosis of obstructive jaundice. Sonographic evaluation was performed in Siemens acusion x-150 and x-300. The final diagnosis was made by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and /or surgery and confirmed histopathologically. Results The most common benign causes of obstructive jaundice were choledocholithiasis (63%), CBD stricture (12.3%), cholangitis (8%) and pancreatitis (6.85%) whereas cholangio carcinoma (6.85%) and carcinoma head of pancreas (4%) comprised of the malignant causes . Ultrasonography had sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 89% in detecting choledocholithiasis. It was found to be 98.78% sensitive and 83.33% specific in cholangiocarcinoma. Similarly in pancreatitis, the sensitivity of ultrasonography was 97.59% and sensitivity was 66.67%. Conclusion Ultrasonography acts as a valuable diagnostic imaging modality in detecting the causes of obstructive jaundice. Due to its easy availability, non invasive nature and cost effectiveness, it can be considered as the first line imaging technique/ tool. ERCP is the invasive imaging tool and can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purpose. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12512 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):237-240
A Comparative Study on Epidemiology, Spectrum and Outcome Analysis of Physical Trauma cases Presenting to Emergency Department of Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital and its Outreach Centers in Rural Area
Authors: Shrestha R , Shrestha SK , Kayastha SR , Parajuli N , Dhoju D , Shrestha D
Published: May 2015

Background Physical trauma is one of the major cause of mortality and morbidity among young and active age group and its increasing trend is of main concern. There are only few studies concerning the spectrum of physical trauma in Nepal. Objective This study aims to evaluate the epidemiological spectrum, the extent, severity of the physical trauma and the outcome evaluation of patients with physical trauma over a period of one year in the emergency department of the Kathmandu University Hospital and compare the same parameters with those patients presenting to the various outreach centers of the hospital in the community. Methods Patient treatment files from the emergency department and the reports from various outreach centers were retrieved for a period of one year (May 2011 to April 2012). Epidemiological information, mode, type and anatomic location of injuries were recorded. Outcome evaluation was assessed by number of patients discharged from emergency department of the hospital or the outreach centers after the treatment, patients admitted for inpatient management and referred to other centers for further specialty management. Result In a period of one year, total 2205 (20%) of physical trauma cases presented to the emergency department and 1994 (6.12%) in the outreach centres. Most commonly involved age group in physical trauma both in Hospital set up and in Community set up were the young adults (15 to 49 years). Fall from height was the commonest mode of injury followed by road traffic accidents among the patients coming to the hospital while significant number of trauma patients coming to outreach centers were due to fall from height. In the hospital set up, 1525 (69.2%) of the cases were discharged while 537 (24.4%) needed inpatient management and 85 (3.8%) needed referral to other centers for the specialty management. In case of outreaches, half of the patients were discharged after the primary treatment and almost another half were referred to the hospital, mainly for need of further investigations. Conclusion Fall related injuries and road traffic accidents are the most common mode of trauma in the hospital set up and fall related injuries are the single most important mode of trauma seen in the outreaches. Mostly young adults in their active period of life are involved in physical trauma so appropriate preventive measures through public health approach should be included in comprehensive trauma management for reducing mortality and morbidity rates related to physical trauma. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12513 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):241-246
Surgical Removal of Traumatic Herniation of Buccal Fat Pad in Young Children
Authors: Agrawal NK , Dahal S , Khadka R
Published: May 2015

Intraoral herniation of the buccal fat pad is traumatic lesion of oral cavity occurring in young children. It frequently presents as an expanding pedunculated mass of soft tissue emanating from the buccal mucosa following a minor trauma to the buccal soft tissues. This article aims to report an interesting and rare lesion, wherein a tiny traumatic perforation of the buccal mucosa and buccinator muscle forced a large portion of the buccal fat pad to extrude into the oral cavity in a young boy. Such a situation can alarm any clinician and reinforces the importance of careful history taking and thorough examination, before treating patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12514 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):247-249
Fallopian Tube Papilloma – Case Report of a Rare Tumor
Authors: Narasimhaiah A , Ansari M , Haritwal A , Awasthi S
Published: May 2015

Fallopian tube neoplasms are rare. We report a rare case of fallopian tube papilloma discovered incidentally in a 45 year old female, operated for procidentia. Right tube was dilated at the infundibular region, with friable grey white tissue in the lumen. Microscopy showed delicate branching papillae lined by a single layer of epithelium resembling tubal lining. There were no features to suggest a reactive hyperplasia in response to inflammation or of aggressive behaviour. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12515 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):250-252
Possession Syndrome at High Altitude (4575 m/15000 ft)
Authors: Khan ID , Sahni AK
Published: May 2015

In a first of its kind, a 20 year old Hindu, highlander, working girl presented with abnormal behavior, unrelenting symptoms, had limited benefit by usual treatment and was diagnosed as Possession syndrome. Exorcism offered symptomatic relief. The girl resumed normal activities with no recurrence in a 12 month follow up. Possession syndrome is explained in both medical and theological perspectives. Modern medicine associates it with a mental illness though True Possession syndrome without associated mental illness has been reported. Theological perspective can be amalgamated with current scientific theory and practice, thereby complimenting existing concepts. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12516 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):253-255
Non Medical Interventions for Childhood Diarrhoea Control:Way Forward in Nepal
Authors: Khanal V , Bhandari R , Karkee R
Published: May 2015

Background Diarrhoeal diseases remain a major cause of mortality of children aged under-five years in the developing countries including Nepal. The transmission of diarrhoea mostly caused by biological agents and is facilitated by the behavioural, social and environmental factors. More recently, the concept of prevention altering these factors is getting momentum. Objective To recommend the most effective non medical intervention that can prevent and control childhood diarrhoeal disease in Nepal. Methods Litrature review was conducted to analyse the successful interventions in developing countries. Peer review articles were accessed from “Science direct”, “Google Scholar”, and “Pubmed”. Interventions focussing on social and environmental determinants of diarrhoea were included. Results Four interventions (with primary focus in social and environmental determinants of diarrhoeal disease) were purposively selected, summarized and discussed. Saniya programme (Burkina Faso 1995 to 1998) is considered successful in modifying the risk behaviours. Intensive hand washing programme (Pakistan 2002 to 2003), a cluster randomized controlled trail, was not sustainable as the results did not last long once the free supply of soap was stopped. School Led Total Sanitation (Nepal 2006) is a participatory, community centred program whose focus is on local ownership. This program approach is effective and feasible for scaling up in Nepal. Global Public Private Partnership for Hand washing with Soap (Ghana 2002) was based on the marketing researches and hence yielded effective results. Conclusion Combination of School Led Total Sanitation and Global Public Private Partnership for hand washing with soap suits Nepal. These interventions focus on creating demand, changing behaviour and thereby, improving the sanitation status. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12517 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):256-261
Writing an Abstract for a Scientific Conference
Authors: Simkhada P , Van Teijlingen E , Hundley V , Simkhada BD
Published: May 2015

For most students and junior researchers, writing an abstract for a poster or oral presentation at a conference is the first piece they may write for an audience other than their university tutors or examiners. Since some researchers struggle with this process we have put together some advice on issues to consider when writing a conference abstract. We highlight a number of issues to bear in mind when constructing one’s abstract. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v11i3.12518 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 43(3):262-265
Metallurgical Failure Investigation of Quench Cracking in Hexagonal Bolt Head Fasteners
Authors: Riesenbeck S. , Gädicke T. , Neidel A.
Published: May 2015

A particular engine user experienced the repeated fracture of new fixing bolts in combustion chambers upon first tensioning. The heads of the bolts fractured from their shafts upon torque-controlled tensioning. Two affected screws were received from site by the original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) laboratory to perform a metallurgical failure investigation and to determine the metallurgical root cause of failure. From the findings of the failure investigation described in this paper it is concluded that the metallurgical cause of failure in both cases was quench cracking, i. e. the imperfections leading to failure were induced upon manufacture and pre-existed in the bolts, i. e. they did not develop in service. These pre-existing cracks eventually caused failure by torsional overload upon first tensioning in assembly.
Hierarchically Ordered Supramolecular Protein-Polymer Composites with Thermoresponsive Properties
Authors: Välimäki Salla , Mikkilä Joona , Liljeström Ville , Rosilo Henna , Ora Ari , Kostiainen Mauri
Published: May 2015

Synthetic macromolecules that can bind and co-assemble with proteins are important for the future development of biohybrid materials. Active systems are further required to create materials that can respond and change their behavior in response to external stimuli. Here we report that stimuli-responsive linear-branched diblock copolymers consisting of a cationic multivalent dendron with a linear thermoresponsive polymer tail at the focal point, can bind and complex Pyrococcus furiosus ferritin protein cages into crystalline arrays. The multivalent dendron structure utilizes cationic spermine units to bind electrostatically on the surface of the negatively charged ferritin cage and the in situ polymerized poly(di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) linear block enables control with temperature. Cloud point of the final product was determined with dynamic light scattering (DLS), and it was shown to be approximately 31 °C at a concentration of 150 mg/L. Complexation of the polymer binder and apoferritin was studied with DLS, small-angle X-ray scattering, and transmission electron microscopy, which showed the presence of crystalline arrays of ferritin cages with a face-centered cubic (fcc, \( Fm\overline{3}m \)) Bravais lattice where lattice parameter a = 18.6 nm. The complexation process was not temperature dependent but the final complexes had thermoresponsive characteristics with negative thermal expansion.
Assembly of CdS Quantum Dots onto Hierarchical TiO2 Structure for Quantum Dots Sensitized Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Ali Syed , Aslam Mohamed , Farooq W. , Fatehmulla Amanullah , Atif M.
Published: May 2015

Quantum dot (QD) sensitized solar cells based on Hierarchical TiO2 structure (HTS) consisting of spherical nano-urchins on transparent conductive fluorine doped tin oxide glass substrate is fabricated. The hierarchical TiO2 structure consisting of spherical nano-urchins on transparent conductive fluorine doped tin oxide glass substrate synthesized by hydrothermal route. The CdS quantum dots were grown by the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction deposition method. The quantum dot sensitized solar cell based on the hierarchical TiO2 structure shows a current density JSC = 1.44 mA, VOC = 0.46 V, FF = 0.42 and η = 0.27%. The QD provide a high surface area and nano-urchins offer a highway for fast charge collection and multiple scattering centers within the photoelectrode.
Identifying the Contemporary Status of E-Service Sustainability Research
Authors: Husnain Ali , Avdic Anders
Published: May 2015

Sustainable development is a world-wide major concern, required in every domain of life, including that of government. E-services are widely acknowledged for the contribution they make to e-government. The research question raised in this study is: What is the existing status of e-service sustainability research? The research method used is a literature study that adopts a concept-centric approach. Selected literature was then analyzed using the twin concepts of e-service sustainability itself and the enabler (secondary) effects of sustainable e-services. The Triple Bottom Line's model was used to further categorize the findings using economic, environmental, and social sustainability concepts. The results of the study revealed a lack of research into e-service sustainability. By way of contrast, it revealed 20 articles that cover the enabler effect. Existing research is related to economic and social dimensions, with the most common topic being related to user satisfaction.
Ternary Quadratic Forms and Eta Quotients
Authors: Williams Kenneth S.
Published: May 2015

Let denote the Dedekind eta function. We use a recent productto-
sum formula in conjunction with conditions for the non-representability of integers by certain
ternary quadratic forms to give explicitly ten eta quotients

such that the Fourier coefficients c(n) vanish for all positive integers n in each of infinitely many non-overlapping arithmetic progressions. For example, we show that if we have c(n) = 0 for all n in each of the arithmetic progressions
Reconsidering the role of carbonate ion concentration in calcification by marine organisms
Authors: Bach L. T.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Marine organisms precipitate 0.5–2.0 Gt of carbon as calcium carbonate (CaCO3) every year with a profound impact on global biogeochemical element cycles. Biotic calcification relies on calcium ions (Ca2+) and generally on bicarbonate ions (HCO3−) as CaCO3 substrates and can be inhibited by high proton (H+) concentrations. The seawater concentration of carbonate ions (CO32−) and the CO32−-dependent CaCO3 saturation state (ΩCaCO3) seem to be irrelevant in this production process. Nevertheless, calcification rates and the success of calcifying organisms in the oceans often correlate surprisingly well with these two carbonate system parameters. This study addresses this dilemma through rearrangement of carbonate system equations which revealed an important proportionality between [CO32−] or ΩCaCO3 and the ratio of [HCO3−] to [H+]. Due to this proportionality, calcification rates will always correlate equally well with [HCO3−]/[H+] as with [CO32−] or ΩCaCO3 when temperature, salinity, and pressure are constant. Hence, [CO32−] and ΩCaCO3 may simply be very good proxies for the control by [HCO3−]/[H+] where [HCO3−] would be the inorganic carbon substrate and [H+] would function as calcification inhibitor. If the "substrate-inhibitor ratio" (i.e. [HCO3−]/[H+]) rather than [CO32−] or ΩCaCO3 controls CaCO3 formation then some of the most common paradigms in ocean acidification research need to be reviewed. For example, the absence of a latitudinal gradient in [HCO3−]/[H+] in contrast to [CO32−] and ΩCaCO3 could modify the common assumption that high latitudes are affected most severely by ocean acidification.
Impact of Entrepreneurial Education on Entrepreneurial Intentions of Pakistani Students
Authors: Hussain Altaf , Norashidah Dr.
Published: May 2015

Why an individual prefer to become an entrepreneur and what factor motivated his intentions for becoming an entrepreneur is considered important question in entrepreneurship research. Entrepreneurial education is considered an important variable which effect on entrepreneurial intentions. However, empirical research results on entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial intention yielded mixed results. To investigate further this question from developing countries perspective, this paper looks at the role of entrepreneurial education in developing the entrepreneurial intentions for becoming entrepreneur. The sample for this study composed of final year business students from Pakistan. The result of this study supports the entrepreneurial intentions model based on the theory of planned behavior. The results further suggested significant influence of entrepreneurial education on entrepreneurial intentions of the students. Moreover, this study results also showed that theoretical knowledge of entrepreneurship (know-what) and knowledge of social network development (know-who) component are vital for imparting entrepreneurial education.
Conversation with Cardinal Onaiyeken
Authors: Onaiyeken John
Published: May 2015

In his recent interview conducted by Adeel Khan, a DICID’s senior researcher and managing editor of Religions/Adyan, Cardinal Onaiyekan of Abuja spoke about the notion of work from his Christian perspective. The interview may be divided into two parts as it started with the reflection of what is or what can be considered as the work of God on earth, and later shifted to the understanding of work or rather work ethics in general terms where several issues related to the current un/employment problems were discussed. Being an Archbishop from Nigeria, the Cardinal presented his views not only from Christian perspective but also from an African observer and from his own personal experience with regards to the main theme of the interview.
Islamic Work Ethic in a Dynamic World
Authors: Ali Abbas J.
Published: May 2015

Perceptions on of work and its relation to human life have occupied man for centuries and discussions about the concept of work among different traditions and cultures appear to be under influence of a certain ideology or particular religion. In this article, Professor Ali has analyzed the understanding of work ethics based on the Islamic perspective. However, as an introduction to this theme, he firstly elaborated the concept of work ethics in a historical context, drawing from Greek civilization up to our time. The idea of work ethics and its understanding among the key makers of Greco-Roman and later Judeo-Christian civilizations up to the industrial revolution and technological age of our times went through the profound changes. In contrast to the Islamic perspective of work ethics, the author claims that in the Western civilization the essential purpose of work despite all drastic comprehension of this notion remains of profitable nature. In Islam on the other hand, the question of work ethics is closely connected to establishing equilibrium between physical and spiritual well being of an individual and a society. The author discussed the fundamental pillars of work ethics in Islam, and these are: effort, competition, transparency, and morally responsible conduct. He also explained several dimensions of ethics concerning work in Islam such as spiritual, social, philosophical, economic and others, concluding his paper by Islamic work ethics statements pertaining to economic welfare of Muslim community.
Christian identity as primary foundation to workplace ethics
Authors: Ewest Timothy
Published: May 2015

The focus of this paper is on understanding the nature of Christian (religious) ethics, giving special consideration of implications for ethical work. Some of the recent issues within the American workforce in regards to religion will be discussed, including three specific barriers for religious people who desire to live out their faith openly in the workplace. The paper will argue that the Christian ethic, including workplace ethics, needs to be understood as primarily a commitment to preserving and forming a Christian identity.
Reliance on God in the history of Early Islamic spirituality
Authors: Bin Ramli Harith
Published: May 2015

This paper revisits the classical Sufi debate over the comparative superiority of practicing absolute reliance on God (tawakkul) against working to earn a living: is it preferable to work to earn a living or to simply trust in God for one’s daily sustenance? By going over the different sources of the Qūt al-qulūb of Abū Ṭālib al-Makkī (d.386 A.H./996 C.E.), this paper will provide a summary sketch of its treatment of this debate in the formative period of Sufism, one that involved not only the early Sufis, but also scholars of law and tradition who were concerned with understanding the ideal life advocated by the Sharīʿa.
Indigenous Work Ethics among Akan of Ghana
Authors: Botchway De-Valera N.Y.M. , Sarpong Awo Abena Amoa
Published: May 2015

Most traditional or native societies based on various sources have constructed particular systems dealing with every aspect of human life. Besides social, religio-cultural, economic and governing systems, they created also what is academically known today as work ethics. In this article, the authors have explored one of such systems developed by the traditional people of Ghana, namely, Akan. As the authors clearly pointed out, there are numerous foundations based upon which work ethics among Akan people are worked out. Here, it is not only their religious and cultural believes that played very important role, but also their personal attained knowledge and experiences over the ages as well as ecological environment that naturally supports the development of given ethical approaches to work that in this respects refers predominantly to agricultural and fishing industries or more precisely, terrestrial and oceanic spaces of work. The study also highlights an entire cosmography of Akan as well as their worldview regarding the Supreme Being and the rest of creation seen in hierarchical order that makes a web of interconnected universe. The proper knowledge of this hierarchy of beings on the one hand and the natural world on the other hand results in harmony within different types of beings as it provides the best economical results for the working people.
Human Labor: Vocation to Share and Celebrate Divine Creativity
Authors: Karekatt, MSFS Raphael
Published: May 2015

In the Christian religious tradition, a great deal of study is devoted to the notion of human work and its importance to the world as such. In presenting some general ideas on this topic based almost exclusively on Christian perspective, Rev. Dr. Karekatt has argued that religion throughout the ages has played a decisive role not only in the understanding of human being and his/her surroundings but also in providing them with means and methods of harnessing human labor. With the arrival of modern science and technology however, the Church was faced with immense challenges in order to redefine work ethics and provide the meaning of it that would fit the new and ever increasing development of labor philosophy within modern and secular worldview. This and other questions such as work in the Christian perspective, human being as creation in the image of God and ordained to live in society, and finally work or labor as a fundamental dimension of human existence have been discussed in the present article.
Work ethics from an Islamic Perspective
Authors: Khalfaoui Mouez
Published: May 2015

From the beginning of Islam, the question of one’s private or public behavior has been closely related to one’s faith or spiritual state. Based on certain Qur’anic references to human responsibility such as divine vicegerency on earth and the Prophetic noble example of human excellence Muslim scholars have developed a special domain of study devoted to what is known as mu’amalat or transactions. The notion of work ethics within this field of study occupies one of the major themes as it is well illustrated in the present article by (Prof.) Khalfaoui. The author has presented an Islamic perspective on business and its development within Islamic culture from the early period of Islam to later times. The first part of the article deals with the Qur’anic and Sunnatic conceptions of business and its institution within an Islamic context. The second part delves further into legal treatment of work developed by Muslim Jurists and other scholars. Finally in a brief conclusion of the study the author fairly related the religious implication of work ethics to the subject of business within the traditional Islamic perspective.
Work Ethics among Sufis in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Seesemann Ruediger
Published: May 2015

This paper explores Islamic work ethics through a case study of the Tijaniyya Sufi order in sub-Saharan Africa. Whereas the normative injunctions of Islamic ethics with regard to work provide little indication as to how work is imbued with religious meaning, approaching the topic empirically allows us to get a clearer sense of the religious significance and spiritual dimension of work. The key concept in the Sufi context analyzed in this paper is khidma, literally “service.” Drawing on fieldwork among Tijani communities in Senegal and Sudan, the article expounds the ideas related to work as well as the ways in which these ideas are being put into practice. By committing one’s life to the service of the shaykh and the community, the followers believe to attain success in this world and bliss in the Hereafter.
لقاء مع الكاردينال أوناييكن
Authors: Onaiyeken John
Published: May 2015

يشغل الكاردينال أوناييكن حاليا منصب رئيس الأساقفة الكاثوليك في أبوجه بنيجيريا، وهو شخصية ساهمت وما زالت في الحوار المسيحي الإسلامي، وهو من الأصوات القليلة المدافعة عن جدوى الحوار وأهميته في دعم إرساء السلام وحل النزاعات. وفي هذا اللقاء الذي قام به فريق من المركز الدوحة الدولي لحوار الأديان، يقدم فيه رئيس الأساقفة بعضا من تأملاته حول "أخلاقيات العمل".
الأديان التقليدية الإفريقية لا تختلف كثيرا عن المسيحية و الإسلام, ولذا يمكنا القول بأن الأديان التقليدية التي كنا ندين بها لم تكن وثنية ، كنا نعبد الله من خلالها، ومن هنا استطعنا أن نقرأ الكتاب المقدس بدون عناء.
والدي كان مفتونا بسيرة السيد المسيح ومن هنا صدقه وآمن به، لأن المسيح لم يأتي بإله جديد.
الكتاب المقدس رغم أنه لم يتحدث كثيرا عن المسيح إلا إنه حكا لنا عن المعجزات التي ظهرت على يديه، وهي الدالة على أفعال الله من حولنا، علما بأن المعجزات هي في الأصل خاصة لله.
كما أنه نؤكد بوجوب إتباع المسيح في أقواله و أفعاله لأن أفعاله تجسيد لأقواله.
يوجد في أفريقيا قساوسة وراهبات نذروا حياتهم للعمل من أجل لله باعتبارهم مسيحيين، في نظري يمكن اعتبار العمل الدنيوي أيضا عملا من أجل لله.
ومما لاشك فيه هو أن الكسل صفة سلبية, وإذا لم يقم الجميع بالقيام بأعمالهم اليومية على أحسن وجه، اعتبر ذلك معصية لأوامر الله.
يحتفل الناس في أفريقيا كثيرا بالأيام المقدسة، وفي نظري إذا انتهت العبادة، ينبغي للناس أن ينتشروا لأعمالهم الدنيوية و تجارتهم و معاشهم.
في القرون الوسطى كان جميع الناس يشتغلون، ولكن وجدت في عصرنا ظاهرة جديدة وهي البطالة ومن الصعب السيطرة عليها. ومن منظور المسيحية العمل يهدف إلى عمارة الأرض باعتبار الإنسان خليفة لله، وهذا يعني أنه رسن هدف واضح لحياة الإنسان. نريد أن نحقق عملا يرضي ذواتنا. عند ما نفقد العمل، ينظر إلى الحياة بأنها غير عادلة. ويلقى ذلك الظرف مسؤولية كبرى على عاتق الدولة لتوجيه الناس ومساعدة ، من يرغب ويقدر على إيجاد العمل. وفي هذا الصدد يقول بولس بأن من لا يريد العمل ينبغي أن لا يأكل، وهذا المثل ينطبق على الكسول.
ومرة سألني بعض الشباب عن حالة الشخص الذي له رغبة في العمل ولكن لا يستطيع الحصول عليه، ولا يجد ما يأكل، فهذا مأساوي جدا. تغيرت النظرة إلى العمل في عالمنا المعاصر، حيث لم يعد العمل يحمل تلك القيمة النبيلة التي ترفع من قدر صاحبها. فإذا أخذنا مثال الحرفيين الذين كانوا يجمعون بين الوظيفة والفن ليس له مكان أو فرصة في ساحة العمل اليوم كما أنه لم يعد لتخصصات الماضي وجود اليوم. لقد طرأ تغيرا جذري في مفهوم العمل اليوم، وأكثر من يعاني من هذه الحالة هم فئة الشباب.
وإذا رجعنا إلى دور الدين فأنه لا يمكنه أن يوقف هذه العملية، أقصى ما يمكن للدين أن يقوم به هو أن ينصح ويوجه صناع القرار إلى يجاد بيئة مشجعة للعمل. الناس ليسوا عبارة عن آلات إنتاج ويحتاجون إلى تعامل تحفظ لهم كرامتهم، ومن المثير للاستغراب أن بعض الأعمال تعتبر أكرم، ,أرفع قدرا، من غيرها في هذه الأيام.
أما دور الدين فهو تنبيه أرباب العمل إلى أن إرادة الله تكمن في إعطاء العمال حقوقهم كاملة.
مهما بلغ مستوى الرقي في المجتمع، فإنه ما لم يستوفي الشباب حقهم في مجال العمل حتى الشعور بالرضي من ظروفهم ستصيبهم حالة من الإحباط ستدفعهم في كثير من الأحيان إلى طريق العنف.
ينبغي أن يدرك الناس بأن السعادة تعتمد على قدرة معرفة المرء بنفسه، ويمكن أن تكون سعيدا مع امتلاك الحد الأدنى، مع المعرفة العميق لنفسك، وبالتالي لا يحتاج الناس إلى الكثير ليكونوا سعداء.
Novas fronteiras para a ABCS Health Sciences
Authors: Souto Ricardo Peres do
Published: May 2015

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