bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demographic pattern, clinical profile and visual outcome of patients with optic neuritis in a tertiary level eye care center of eastern Nepal
Authors: Shrestha BG , Sharma M , Lavaju P , Pokharel SM , Agrawal N , Tulsyan N
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Optic neuritis is one of the common causes of sudden visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment with intravenous steroids can hasten visual recovery. Objective: To analyze the demographic pattern, clinical profile, and response to treatment with pulse methylprednisolone in patients presenting with optic neuritis. Methods: A hospital based retrospective analysis of records of patients with optic neuritis presenting at BPKIHS between April 2010 to February 2012 was carried out. Demographic pattern, clinical profile and visual outcome at the time of presentation and discharge were recorded. Results: Thirty-five patients (44 eyes) presented with optic neuritis. A total of 33 eyes (75%) had papillitis and 11 eyes (25%) had retrobulbar optic neuritis. Male to female ratio was 2.18:1. The mean age at presentation was 31.20 ± 17.07 years. Diminution of vision was the commonest mode of presentation. Bilateral involvement was seen in 9 patients (25.71%). The 38 eyes (86.36%) had abnormal pupillary reaction. Eight patients (22.85%) had preceeding history of trauma, 1 (2.85%) had ethmoidal sinusitis and 1 (2.85%) otitis media. At the time of discharge 32 eyes (72.7%) showed recovery in visual acuity after pulse I.V. methylprednisolone therapy. Duration at presentation, visual acuity at presentation and diagnosis did not affect the final visual outcome (p=0.486, p=0.162 and p=0.122 respectively). Conclusion: Majority of patients presented with papillitis of idiopathic origin. Most of the cases were unilateral. Most patients with visual acuity of at least perception of light or better at the time of presentation improved after pulse I.V. methylprednisolone therapy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9641 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):250-253
Effect of gabapentin premedication on preoperative anxiety and postoperative pain
Authors: Pathak L , Chaturvedi A
Published: January 2014

Background: In addition to chronic pain and anxiety disorders, few studies have found promising role of gabapentin in relieving acute postoperative pain as well as acute anxiety too. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of gabapentin premedication on preoperative anxiety and postoperative pain in patients undergoing elective open cholecystectomy. Methods: A prospective, randomized, double blind and placebo controlled study. Eighty adult patients of ASA I and II were divided into 2 groups of 40 each. Patients in group 1 and group 2 received capsules Gabapentin (1200mg) or identical placebo capsules 2 hours prior to surgery respectively. Preoperative anxiety and 12 hours postoperative pain was assessed using Anxiety and Pain VAS score respectively along with the observation of side effects. Postoperatively, intravenous pethidine 0.5 mg/kg was given when pain VAS > 40mm and time to first pethidine injection and total pethidine consumption in 12 hours was recorded. Results: Anxiety VAS scores after one hour of drug intake (35.75±20.11 versus 46.63±12.73) and just before induction of anaesthesia (45.75±30.27versus 68.13±29.84) along with postoperative Pain VAS scores were significantly lower in gabapentin group. Time to the first pethidine demand was significantly longer (145.34±194.54 min versus 26.30±51.02min) and cumulative pethidine consumption throughout study period was also significantly lower (35.91 ± 16.61 versus 57.84 ± 20.72mg) in gabapentin group. Conclusions: 1200 mg gabapentin premedication in open cholecystectomy patients significantly reduced preoperative anxiety, postoperative pain and total pethidine consumption with negligible side effects. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9642 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):254-259
Wooden foreign bodies in soft tissue: role of tissue harmonic sonography
Authors: Sah PL , Ahmad K , Gupta MK , Dhungel K , Gupta RK , Ansari S
Published: January 2014

Background: Wooden foreign bodies (WFB) are usually not detectable on radiography. Ultrasound is a useful tool for detection and localization of WFB. Objectives: We evaluated the efficacy of tissue harmonic sonography in detection of WFB and describe the imaging features of WFB on tissue harmonic imaging. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 28 patients with history of wooden (wood/thorn/bamboo) foreign body prick with tissue harmonic sonography. Results: The WFB was detected on ultrasonography in all 28 patients (100%) which was confirmed on surgery or follow up study. All WFB were echogenic casting strong posterior acoustic shadowing with or without surrounding hypoechoic halo. Conclusion: Tissue harmonic imaging is useful tool for detection and localization of retained WFB. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9650 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):267-269
Pseudopelade of Brocq: a clinico-therapeutic challenge!
Authors: Jain S
Published: January 2014

Pseudopelade of Brocq is a clinical syndrome comprising of scarring alopecia and fibrosis in which distinct pathological features are absent. It is not a specific disease, rather a pattern of cicatricial alopecia. However, if a definitive diagnosis of DLE (discoid lupus erythematosus), LPP (Lichen planopilaris) or any other condition can be made on the basis of clinical, histopathological or immunofluorescent features, then this term cannot be used. Here we report the case of a 20 year old young male who presented to us with complaints of loss of scalp hair for 2 years which were associated with mild itching. The condition is as such rare in prevalence and hence we report the same in view of its unique presentation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9652 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):273-275
Pineal germinoma presenting with Parinaud’s syndrome
Authors: Ahmad K , Ansari S , Dhungel K , Gupta MK , Rauniyar RK , Mishra N
Published: January 2014

Intracranial germinomas typically occur in the suprasellar, pineal, and other locations. Pineal germinoma presenting with Parinaud’s Syndrome is a group of abnormalities of eye movement and pupil dysfunction. It is a rare tumor and its clinical and imaging features can help clinicians in the management of these lesions. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9653 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):276-278
Rehabilitation of severely resorbed maxilla with a hollow maxillary complete denture
Authors: Bhandari A , Singh SK , Suwal P , Parajuli PK , Manandhar A
Published: January 2014

Rehabilitation of severely resorbed maxilla poses a clinical challenge for fabrication of a successful maxillary complete denture. The increased interridge distance often results in a heavy maxillary complete denture that further reduces the retention and stability of the denture. This case report describes the rehabilitation of an edentulous patient with resorbed maxillary and mandibular ridges and an increased interridge distance by hollow maxillary complete denture so as to reduce the weight of the denture which enhances the retention and stability of the denture. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9655 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):281-283
Prosthetic rehabilitation of patient with maxillofacial defect by hollow bulb obturator
Authors: Shrestha GK , Parajuli P , Suwal P , Singh RK
Published: January 2014

Introduction: Post-surgical maxillary defect is mostly repaired by the use of an obturator, which is often quite heavy due to the extension into the defect that is better relieved by making it hollow. Objective: To fabricate hollow bulb obturator in simple way. Case: An 85 year old man was referred from ENT department after hemimaxillectomy to remove squamous cell carcinoma, for obturator prosthesis and was treated with hollow bulb obturator prosthesis. Conclusion: The hollow bulb reduces the weight of prosthesis making is comfortable for the patient. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9656 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):284-286
Angle closure glaucoma in contralateral eye induced by topical atropine used for treatment of corneal ulcer in the fellow eye
Authors: Shah S , Lavaju P
Published: January 2014

Acute angle closure glaucoma (AACG) can be induced by topical mydriatics which are used as cycloplegic and to prevent synechiae while treating corneal ulcer disease. Development of AACG in opposite eye by use of topical mydriatic in one eye is a very rare condition. We report a very rare case of a 45-year-old male who while using topical atropine in the right eye for corneal ulcer developed atropine induced AACG in the left. The AACG in this patient was managed by medications and laser iridotomy followed by trabeculectomy. The aim of this case report is to raise the awareness about this rare adverse effect of topical use of atropine where AACG can be induced in contralateral eye which warrants the clinician to be more careful and vigilant while prescribing atropine so that timely intervention can prevent the devastating condition leading to blindness. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9658 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):290-292
Subconjunctival cysticerscosis with involvement of superior muscle complex - a case report
Authors: Lavaju P , Mahat P , Upadhyaya P , Agrawal Y , Ahmad K
Published: January 2014

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infestation caused by cysticercus cellulose. Ocular and adnexal cysticercosis represents 13% to 46% of systemic disease. There are different modes of presentation of ocular cysticercosis. Case: Here we report a case with the left upper eyelid ptosis. On ocular examination, there was presence of a cystic yellowish mass of size of the eye ball in the upper palpebral sub-conjunctiva along with dystropia and limitation of extraocular movements in dextroelevation. Complete surgical excision of the cyst was achieved through splitting of the left upper eyelid. There was presence of sub-conjunctival cyst along with involvement of levator palpebral superioris (LPS) and superior rectus (SR) muscle. Histopathological examination of the cyst showed features suggestive of cysticercosis. The patient was symptomatically better postoperatively. He was commenced on oral prednisolone 1mg/kg and oral albendazole 400 mg for 28 days. Conclusion: Cysticercosis should be considered in cases of inflammatory swelling of subconjunctival space especially in people with poor personal and community hygiene. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9659 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):293-296
Investing in medical student’s research: Promoting future of evidence based medicine in Nepal
Authors: Basnet B , Bhandari A
Published: January 2014

Along with clinical training, encouraging practice of Evidence Based Medicine (EBM) plays a crucial role in training tomorrow’s doctors. Involvement of medical students in research activities is crucial in developing critical thinking, efficient literature-searching, and application of formal rules of evidence in evaluating the clinical literature, and publishing research to contribute to medicine. Though significant progress has been made in the recent years, the concept of student research is relatively new and less implemented in Nepal. Mandatory research in the medical curriculum, electives or dual degree programs can not only promote student research but also enhance better EBM practices among medical professionals. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9660 Health Renaissance 2013;11(3):297-300
Copyright Transfer Statement
Authors: Editor The
Published: January 2014

Copyright Transfer Statement must be submitted with the manuscriptDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v11i3.9662   Health Renaissance 2013;11(3): 305
Conservation of Critically Endangered Olive Barb Puntius sarana (Hamilton, 1822) through Artificial Propagation
Authors: Siddik Muhammad Abu Bakar , Nahar Ashfaqun , Ahamed Ferdous , Masood Zubia , Hossain Md. Yeamin
Published: January 2014

The Olive barb Puntius sarana (Hamilton, 1822) is a member of the family Cyprinidae and its conservational status has been referred as critically endangered in Bangladesh and vulnerable in India. An experiment on artificial propagation of the critically endangered fish P. sarana was carried out to determine the suitable dose of pituitary gland (PG) hormone as well as to determine the effective breeding season for the conservation of this critically endangered fish species. Three breeding trials (April 2010, June 2010 and July 2010) have been taken into consideration with PG doses in three different treatments (4.5, 5.5, 6.5 mg/kg body weight, respectively) having three replications of each. Brood fishes were collected from the Kangsha River (Netrokona) and reared in the experimental ponds, providing special diet upto their maturation. A total of 18 broods (9 female and 9 male) were selected for induced breeding in each trial. To observe the effective dose for induced breeding, the females were first injected at the rate of 4.5, 5.5 and 6.5 mg PG/kg body weight in T1, T2 and T3, respectively in each trial. On the other hand, the males were administrated at the rate of 2 mg PG/kg body weight. The breeding performance in terms of ovulation, fertilization and hatching rate were studied. Induced breeding, in trial-2 obtained the better result in terms of ovulation, fertilization and hatching rate compared to other two trials. In trial-2 among the treatments, T2 with doses of 5.5 mg/kg body weight showed better result than other two treatments where 4.5 and 6.5 mg/kg body weight PG doses were used in T1 and T3, respectively. The findings of the present study can be used in induced breeding of P. sarana for the development of hatchery propagation as well as to conserve this valuable critically endangered species.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9534 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 96-104
Impacts of Damming on Ichthyo-faunal Diversity of Marshyangdi River in Lamjung district, Nepal
Authors: Mandal Ram Bhajan , Jha Dilip Kumar
Published: January 2014

A study was conducted to assess the impacts of dam on fish diversity of Marshyangdi River and its tributaries in Lamjung district. Twenty six species of fishes belonging to 5 orders, 6 families and 18 genera were recorded from the different localities. Cyprinidae was the most dominant among the families represented by 53.8% species followed by Cobitidae (23.0%), Sisoridae (7.7%) and Channidae (7.7%) while Anguillidae and Synbranchidae accounted each by 3.9% only. Gut contents of fish species recorded were studied. Site specific presence of fish species indicated that damming on the main river affected the movement of migratory fishes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9536 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 168-176
Distribution and Conservation of Less Known Rare and Threatened Plant Species in Kachchh, Gujarat, India
Authors: Joshi Pankaj N. , Soni Hiren B. , Sunderraj S.F. Wesley , Joshua Justus
Published: January 2014

The present survey was conducted in different terrains, habitats and ecosystems of Kachchh, Gujarat, India, for consecutive 3 years (2001-2002) in all possible climatic seasons, to know the present status of 6 less known rare and threatened plant species viz., Ammannia desertorum, Corallocarpus conocarpus, Dactyliandra welwitschii, Limonium stocksii, Schweinfurthia papilionacea and Tribulus rajasthanensis. Distribution, abundance and population dynamics of these species were derived. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9541 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 152-167
Pre-harvest Weeds of a Wheat Field at Biratnagar, Nepal
Authors: Niroula Bhabindra
Published: January 2014

Sixty eight species of weeds belonging to 22 families and 59 genera were recorded from a wheat field at Biratnagar during the pre-harvest condition. Based on species prevalence the dominant weed families were Asteraceae (17 species), Poaceae (13 species) and Fabaceae (6 species). Anagallis arvensis, Crepis japonica, Grangea maderaspatana, Polygonum plebeium were abundant and Fumaria indica, Leucas lavandulifilia, Rumex dentatus, Vicia angustifolia, V. hirsuta and V. tetrasperma were common species of weeds. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9597 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 187-191
Understanding and Analysing the Coordinates of Diversity of Wetland Birds of Asan Barrage near Paonta Sahib, Northern India
Authors: Kaushik Tirshem Kumar , Gupta Rohtash Chand
Published: January 2014

The winter migratory wetland bird’s diversity of Asan barrage, Uttarakhand, India has been studied during 2005-2012. A total 60 species of wetland birds belonging to 6 orders and 13 families were observed. The findings also hints that Rudy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea is the most dominant bird followed by Common Coot Fulica atra, Red-crested Pochard Rhodonessa rufina, Common Pochard Aythya ferina and Mallard Anas platyrhynchos. It was observed that Rudy Shelduck preferred Yamuna River waters rather than the traditional still pools, ponds, reservoirs etc. The same trend was displayed by Red-crested Pochard and Great-crested Grebe. On the contrary, winter migratory birds like Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata, Northern Pintail Anas acuta, Common Teal Anas crecca etc were found least in number at Asan Barrage but found in impressive numbers in Haryana traditional pools, ponds.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9599 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 192-200
Diversity of Snakes in Sarlahi District, Nepal
Authors: Chettri Krishna , Thapa Chhetry Damodar
Published: January 2014

A total of 21 snake species belonging to 17 genera and 4 families were recorded. Out of 21 species, 2, 14, 4, and 1 belong to family Typhlopidae, Colubridae, Elapidae and Viperidae respectively. They have been categorized as deadly venomous, mild venomous and non-venomous. Among the recorded species 5 were deadly venomous, 4 were mild venomous and the remaining 12 were non venomous. The species of Boidae family was not encountered during the study period.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9600 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 201-207
Density-Dependent Growth and Production of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Fingerlings Relative to Phytoplankton and Periphyton Biomass
Authors: Jiwyam W.
Published: January 2014

The growth, production and survival of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, with an average individual weight of 0.2 g were used to determine the density-dependent growth and production relative to phytoplankton and periphyton biomass in periphyton-based aquaculture. The trial was conducted in 10 m2 concrete tanks for a 56 day period. A 10 cm layer of soil was placed at the bottom of each tank. To act as substrates for periphyton, bamboo poles with an approximate submerged surface area of 50% to that of the total tank surface area were vertically posted in the tank bottom. A weekly fertilizer dose of urea and triple superphosphate at a rate of 28 kg N and 7 kg P/ha/week was added. Four stocking densities in triplicate were used: 5, 10, 20, and 40 fish/m2 (50, 100, 200, and 400 fish/tank). The results indicated that the carrying capacity of periphyton-based tanks for Nile tilapia was 293 g/m2 in a 56-day culture period. The relationships between gross yields of tilapia (y) and periphyton dry matter (x), or chlorophyll a (x) were described as y = 353.2483-109.1809x, R2 = 0.5646, P = 0.005, y = 125.5916 + 0.9698x, R2 = 0.5841, P = 0.004. Provision of substrates at 50% of total tank surface area was sufficient for periphyton production in nutrient-rich aquaculture ponds where grazing rate and fish density in the system are balanced.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v11i2.9646 Our Nature 2013, 11(2): 105-115
Diet and Feeding Habits of Cyprinus carpio in Relation with Water Quality of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming Ecosystem
Authors: Mondol Md. Mostafizur Rahman , Rahman Md. Mosaddequr , Nahar Dil Afroz , Ahamed Ferdous , Sarker Md. Al-Amin , Subba Bharat Raj , Hossain Md. Yeamin
Published: January 2014

This study describes the diets and feeding habits of Cyprinus carpio in integrated rice-fish farming system in the Agronomy Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Central Bangladesh during May 1999 to August 1999. Percentage of frequency of occurrence and percentage in number methods were applied for the qualitative and quantitative estimation of plankton. The water quality parameters recorded during the study were within the suitable range for optimal fish growth and plankton populations were also abundant in the water of the rice plots. The phytoplankton population recorded from the gut contents of C. carpio was under 4 groups (viz., Chlorophyceae, Euglenophyceae, Cyanophyceae, Bacillariophyceae) and the zooplankton under 3 groups (viz., Rotifera, Cladocera, Copepoda). Bacillariophyceae and Chlorophyceae were the dominant phytoplankton group while Rotifera was the dominant zooplankton group in the gut contents of C. carpio. This study also revealed that, gut contents of C. carpio was composed of 48.47% phytoplankton and 51.53% zooplankton indicating omnivorous nature of the fish. The availability of plankton population in the rice plots and the food and feeding habits of C. carpio suggest that, this fish could be a vital candidate for integrated rice-fish aquaculture.
High cervical arteriovenous fistulas fed by dural and spinal arteries and draining into a single medullary vein
Authors: Onda Kiyoshi , Yoshida Yuichi , Watanabe Kounosuke , Arai Hiroyuki , Okada Hideo , Terada Tomoaki
Published: January 2014

Object

The authors previously reported a case of complex arteriovenous fistula (AVF) at C-1 with multiple dural and spinal feeders that were linked with a common medullary venous channel. The purpose of the present study was to collect similar cases and analyze their angioarchitecture to gain a better understanding of this malformation.

Methods

Three such cases, affecting 2 males and 1 female in their 60s who had presented with hematomyelia (2) or progressive myelopathy (1), were treated surgically, and the operative findings from all 3 cases were compared using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) to determine the angioarchitecture.

Results

The C-1 and C-2 radicular arteries and anterior and posterior spinal arteries supplied feeders to a single medullary draining vein in various combinations and via various routes. The drainage veins ran along the affected ventral nerve roots and lay ventral to the spinal cord. The sites of shunting to the vein were multiple: dural, along the ventral nerve root in the subarachnoid space, and on the spinal cord, showing a vascular structure typical of dural AVF, that is, a direct arteriovenous shunt near the spinal root sleeve fed by one or more dural arteries and ending in a single draining vein, except for intradural shunts fed by feeders from the spinal arteries. In 2 cases with hemorrhagic onset the drainer flowed rostrally, and in 1 case associated with congestive myelopathy the drainer flowed both rostrally and caudally. Preoperative determination of the shunt sites and feeding arteries was difficult because of complex recruitment of the feeders and multiple shunt sites. The angioarchitecture in these cases was clarified postoperatively by meticulous comparison of the DSA images and operative video. Direct surgical intervention led to a favorable outcome in all 3 cases.

Conclusions

A high cervical complex AVF has unique angioarchitectural characteristics different from those seen in the other spinal regions.
Suboptimal compliance with evidence-based guidelines in patients with traumatic brain injuries
Authors: Shafi Shahid , Barnes Sunni A. , Millar D , Sobrino Justin , Kudyakov Rustam , Berryman Candice , Rayan Nadine , Dubiel Rosemary , Coimbra Raul , Magnotti Louis J. , Vercruysse Gary , Scherer Lynette A. , Jurkovich Gregory J. , Nirula Raminder
Published: January 2014

Object

Evidence-based management (EBM) guidelines for severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) were promulgated decades ago. However, the extent of their adoption into bedside clinical practices is not known. The purpose of this study was to measure compliance with EBM guidelines for management of severe TBI and its impact on patient outcome.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of blunt TBI (11 Level I trauma centers, study period 2008–2009, n = 2056 patients). Inclusion criteria were an admission Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤ 8 and a CT scan showing TBI, excluding patients with nonsurvivable injuries—that is, head Abbreviated Injury Scale score of 6. The authors measured compliance with 6 nonoperative EBM processes (endotracheal intubation, resuscitation, correction of coagulopathy, intracranial pressure monitoring, maintaining cerebral perfusion pressure ≥ 50 cm H2O, and discharge to rehabilitation). Compliance rates were calculated for each center using multivariate regression to adjust for patient demographics, physiology, injury severity, and TBI severity.

Results

The overall compliance rate was 73%, and there was wide variation among centers. Only 3 centers achieved a compliance rate exceeding 80%. Risk-adjusted compliance was worse than average at 2 centers, better than average at 1, and the remainder were average. Multivariate analysis showed that increased adoption of EBM was associated with a reduced mortality rate (OR 0.88; 95% CI 0.81–0.96, p < 0.005).

Conclusions

Despite widespread dissemination of EBM guidelines, patients with severe TBI continue to receive inconsistent care. Barriers to adoption of EBM need to be identified and mitigated to improve patient outcomes.
Obesity in junk food generation in Asia: A health time bomb that needs early defusing!
Authors: Rahman Sayeeda
Published: January 2014

South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 1-2 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17703
Stillbirths: A high magnitude public health issue in India
Authors: Bhati Divya K
Published: January 2014

A stillbirth is a baby born with no signs of life at or after 28 weeks gestation, while preterm births are those which occur between 28 weeks to 32 weeks of gestation. Approximately 3.2 million stillbirths occur annually in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this paper is to review the present status of the stillbirths and identify the un-derlying factors of stillbirths in India. A search of PubMed and other search engines were conducted to retrieve the literature pertaining to neonatal and perinatal health in India. Four priority areas were used to select the studies: overview (prevalence of the stillbirths), challenges in mapping the potential causes of stillbirths, socio-cultural fac-tors associated with stillbirths, and government response towards stillbirths. It was found that women face many difficulties due to accessibility, availability, affordability and quality issues when utilizing healthcare facilities dur-ing pregnancy. Several studies based on stillbirths also revealed the social aspects of perinatal grief. Stillbirths are bounded by high family pressures and social stigma. A review also revealed that half of all stillbirths occur in India, Pakistan, Nigeria, China and Bangladesh alone. These countries also account for a high number of maternal and newborn deaths. India has highest number of stillbirths in the world  the rates range from 20 to 66 per 1000 births in different states. It was also found that healthcare and socio-cultural factors contribute to the increase in the num-ber of stillbirths in India. These issues highlight the need for urgent action and interventions to be taken by the gov-ernment and other organization to improve the situation of stillbirths in India. Early neonatal deaths and stillbirths usually have obstetric causes, and are largely preventable if good quality obstetric care is made available at the right time. Initiatives for strengthening the information management system at the grassroots level to report stillbirths on a regular basis are necessary to improve the neonatal health indicators in India. South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 3-9 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17704
Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) services and its role in HIV/AIDS prevention and management in Nepal
Authors: Mahato Preeti K , Bi Peng , Burgess Teresa
Published: January 2014

HIV/AIDS has emerged as a serious epidemic in Nepal, concentrated amongst the most-at-risk populations. Volun-tary Counseling and Testing (VCT) is a proven strategy for the prevention and management of HIV/AIDS especially in developing countries. Given that the utilization of VCT is low in Nepal, it is important to understand the barriers and challenges that Nepal is facing in the provision and utilization of these services. This study aimed to provide recommendations for policy makers to improve the utilization of VCT services in Nepal. A qualitative study of VCT health service providers and government officials was undertaken in 4 cities of Nepal. Sixteen interviews, three joint interviews and one focus group discussion were conducted, audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were then analyzed using a thematic analysis framework and major themes were identified. Various barriers including socio-cultural issues, geography, the presence of stigma and discrimination faced by people with HIV/AIDS and a lack of knowledge and awareness were identified as important factors limiting the utilization of VCT services. Current gov-ernment efforts to improve VCT service provision, although promising, require ongoing development. Systemic barriers included the sustainability of the temporary NGO VCT services, lack of staff and training, inadequate moni-toring and evaluation and limited access to services for people living in rural areas. To increase the sustainability and utilization of VCT services, the Government can intervene in a number of areas including the integration of VCT services with existing primary health care services and addressing ongoing education and quality assurance. South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 10-16 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17705
Effect of conditional cash transfer schemes on registration of the birth of a female child in India
Authors: Baruah Jenita , Rajkonwar Anjam , Medhi Shobhana , Kusre Giriraj
Published: January 2014

Girls have traditionally been neglected in India. The neglect is reflected in adverse sex ratio of 914 girls per 1000 boys as reported in 2011 census. The declining sex ratio can be prevented by the registration of female children and by ensuring their progress and safety. The study aims at finding the effect of the introduction of a conditional cash transfer scheme (Majoni scheme) upon the registration of a female child. It was a hospital record-based study where the preferential treatment of female children during registration into the birth register before and after the introduction of the Majoni scheme was measured. An effect of the scheme on the registration of male and female children was also compared. The introduction of this scheme increased the female to male ratio of applications for the registration of births from 1.06 to 1.34 and also increased the number of formal requests for the registration of the birth of a female child from 24.45% to 39.05%. Financial incentives or securities have been shown to modify human behavior. The increase in the numbers of applications for the registration of a female child, after the intro-duction of the Majoni scheme was due to the financial incentive attached with the registration. The increasing trend in the number of applications with every passing month was probably due to the increase in awareness regard-ing the benefit of the scheme. Conditional cash transfer schemes, such as Majoni, can have a significant effect on increasing the registration of female children. Further study is required to evaluate the effect of the factors other than the financial incentive upon the registration of female children. South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 30-35 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17708
Health and education provider collaboration to deliver adolescent sexual and reproductive health in Sri Lanka
Authors: Dawson Angela J , Wijewardena Kumuda , Black Ellie
Published: January 2014

The complex nature of adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) determinants demands a multidisciplinary and intersectoral approach. Collaborative approaches are central to the delivery of quality health care and services but the focus is often health sector specific. Few research studies have explored the views and experiences of health workers and teachers and examined how ASRH services and information are provided by professionals across the education and health sector. Sri Lanka has made considerable progress towards addressing the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), however, there are still gaps reflected in adolescent health, social indicators, and the delivery of services. Enhancing the collective efforts of teachers and health professionals may help to improve the quality and use of services and ASRH knowledge. This study aimed to identify the experiences, needs, knowledge, attitudes and practices of primary healthcare and education professionals and the strategies that best support them to deliver sexual and reproductive health information, education, counseling and clinical services to Sri Lankan adolescents. Qualitative and survey data were gathered from 65 nurses, midwives, public health inspectors, medical officers, teachers, counselors and principals in the district of Kalutara. Knowledge, attitudes and service gaps were identified in relation to contraception and policy guiding practice. Participants highlighted concerns with confidence, roles and training that were said to affect student access to appropriate health services. ASRH Collaborative practices were noted across the sectors and strategies suggested for improvement. Findings suggest that inter-professional educa-tion and training may provide opportunities to enhance collaboration supported and guided by appropriate policy, supervision and job descriptions (i.e. roles and responsibilities). South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 42-49 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17710
Determinants of contraceptive method choice in Bangladesh: Male perspectives
Authors: Islam Md. Shahidul
Published: January 2014

Family planning programs are considered to be an important way to control the rapid population growth of Bangla-desh with the main focus being women. As a male dominant country, the knowledge of, attitude towards, and ap-proval of family planning is largely influenced by the male member of couples in their choice of appropriate contra-ceptive methods. This paper examined the determinants of current choices in family planning methods in relation to male knowledge, attitude and approval of family planning practices in Bangladesh. A total of 430 married men aged 15-49 years were interviewed in Narsingdi, a district town of Bangladesh. The findings revealed that the mens level of contraceptive knowledge and their attitude to modern contraceptive was high in this area. The findings asserted that the contraceptive prevalence rate among couples was (62.1%), with oral pills (26.51%) and withdrawals (6.25%) being the most preferred modern and traditional methods respectively. The multinomial logistic regression model has been applied to understand the determinants of the choice of contraceptive method. These findings indi-cated that women in skilled occupation, positive attitude towards modern contraceptives of male, high level of knowledge on contraceptive methods of male, approval of family planning by male, and current living children had significantly more positive effects on using modern contraceptives by the couple. It was also found that couples who desired more children were less likely to use modern contraceptives. Alternatively, the education level of the hus-band and the desired number of additional children had a negative impact on the use of traditional methods while media exposure, a high level of knowledge on contraceptives, and an approval of family planning had positive im-pacts on the use of traditional contraceptives over not using any method. The government should increase the fund-ing and availability of family planning programs which promote the use of modern contraceptive methods, espe-cially those that are targeted towards the male population. South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 50-56 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17711
A case-control study of risk factors for ischemic heart disease in patients attending tertiary care hospitals in India
Authors: Kapoor Rachna , Vyas Sheetal , Patel Pinkal , Mehta Hemangi , Mehta Pooja , Modi Jinkal , Nair Sruthi
Published: January 2014

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of both mortality and forgone healthy years of life among working-age adults (15-69 years) in South Asia. It is the leading cause of death in India and worldwide. For non-communicable diseases (NCDs), common, modifiable and easily measurable risk factors could be reliably used to predict the future burden of the diseases and to measure the effectiveness of public health interventions. A case-control study was undertaken to examine the socio-demographic profile of IHD patients and to identify the risk fac-tors in already diagnosed cases of IHD admitted in three tertiary care hospitals of Ahmedabad, India. We have in-cluded 100 cases and 100 controls who were group matched with the cases. The association of various risk factors with IHD was assessed. On univariate analysis it was found that 7 out of 8 risk factors were significantly associated with IHD. They are alcohol consumption (OR; 14.6, 95% CI; 6.4-33.3), smoking (OR; 13.6, 95% CI; 6.6-27.8), to-bacco consumption in non-smoking form (OR;2.3, 95% CI; 0.78-7.02), hypertension (OR; 6.5, 95% CI; 3.4-12.3), Type 2 diabetes (OR; 4.5, 95% CI; 2.4-8.7), obesity (OR; 9.7, 95% CI; 4.9-19.1), sedentary lifestyle (OR; 3.8, CI; 1.8-8.4 ) and family history (OR; 5.3, 95% CI; 2.8-9.9). This study identified the significance of alcohol, smoking, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sedentary lifestyle and family history in the outcome of IHD. This suggests that the increased cardiovascular risk among the urban population of Ahmedabad city may be preventable through lifestyle interventions along with the judicious use of medicines to attain optimal levels of blood pressure, lipids and glucose among the high risk population. South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 57-60 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17712
Certificate course in healthcare waste management: An overview
Authors: Kumari Reema , Singh Anshita
Published: January 2014

South East Asia Journal of Public Health 2013; 3(1): 72-73 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/seajph.v3i1.17716
Luminescent Oxygen Gas Sensors Based on Nanometer-Thick Hybrid Films of Iridium Complexes and Clay Minerals
Authors: Sato Hisako , Tamura Kenji , Yamagishi Akihiko
Published: January 2014

The use of Ir(III) complexes in photo-responsive molecular devices for oxygen gas sensing is reviewed. Attention is focused on the immobilization of Ir(III) complexes in organic or inorganic host materials such as polymers, silica and clays in order to enhance robustness and reliability. Our recent works on constructing nanometer-thick films comprised of cyclometalated cationic Ir(III) complexes and clay minerals are described. The achievement of multi-emitting properties in response to oxygen pressure is demonstrated.
Large Scale Cosmological Anomalies and Inhomogeneous Dark Energy
Authors: Perivolaropoulos Leandros
Published: January 2014

A wide range of large scale observations hint towards possible modifications on the standard cosmological model which is based on a homogeneous and isotropic universe with a small cosmological constant and matter. These observations, also known as “cosmic anomalies” include unexpected Cosmic Microwave Background perturbations on large angular scales, large dipolar peculiar velocity flows of galaxies (“bulk flows”), the measurement of inhomogenous values of the fine structure constant on cosmological scales (“alpha dipole”) and other effects. The presence of the observational anomalies could either be a large statistical fluctuation in the context of ΛCDM or it could indicate a non-trivial departure from the cosmological principle on Hubble scales. Such a departure is very much constrained by cosmological observations for matter. For dark energy however there are no significant observational constraints for Hubble scale inhomogeneities. In this brief review I discuss some of the theoretical models that can naturally lead to inhomogeneous dark energy, their observational constraints and their potential to explain the large scale cosmic anomalies.
Hispolon Decreases Melanin Production and Induces Apoptosis in Melanoma Cells through the Downregulation of Tyrosinase and Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor (MITF) Expressions and the Activation of Caspase-3, -8 and -9
Authors: Chen Yi-Shyan , Lee Shu-Mei , Lin Chih-Chien , Liu Chia-Yi
Published: January 2014

Hispolon is one of the most important functional compounds that forms Phellinus linteus (Berkeley & Curtis) Teng. Hispolon has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and anticancer effects. In this study, we analyzed the functions of hispolon on melanogenesis and apoptosis in B16-F10 melanoma cells. The results demonstrated that hispolon is not an enzymatic inhibitor for tyrosinase; rather, it represses the expression of tyrosinase and the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) to reduce the production of melanin in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-stimulated B16-F10 cells at lower concentrations (less than 2 μM). In contrast, at higher concentration (greater than 10 μM), hispolon can induce activity of caspase-3, -8 and -9 to trigger apoptosis of B16-F10 cells but not of Detroit 551 normal fibroblast cells. Therefore, we suggest that hispolon has the potential to treat hyperpigmentation diseases and melanoma skin cancer in the future.
Bickmann, Claudia. “The Idea of a Highest Divine Principle—Founding Reason and Spirituality. A Necessary Concept of a Comparative Philosophy?” Religions 3 (2012): 1025–40
Authors: Bickmann Claudia
Published: January 2014

The author wishes to add the following correction to her paper published in Religions [1]: Reference [28] on pages 1035 and 1040 should be [27] and the citation to [27] on p. 1035 should be removed. The author apologizes for any inconvenience. [...]
Le commerce dans une stratégie de développement axée sur la « croissance verte ». Problèmes et enjeux
Authors: de Melo Jaime
Published: January 2014

Cet article examine l’état des connaissances sur les conséquences environnementales liées au commerce que peut générer la stratégie de développement d’un pays et s’articule autour de trois axes : (i) les liens directs entre environnement et commerce (surexploitation des ressources naturelles et coûts de transport liés au commerce) ; (ii) le « commerce virtuel » des émissions résultant des activités de production ; (iii) les caractéristiques d’une combinaison de produits dans le cadre d’une stratégie de « croissance verte » (produits préférables pour l’environnement et biens pour la gestion de l’environnement). Les principales conclusions sont les suivantes. Le commerce exacerbe la surexploitation des ressources naturelles dans des environnements institutionnels faibles, mais rien ne permet d’affirmer que les différences de politiques environnementales entre les pays ont engendré d’importants « paradis pour pollueurs ». Des politiques commerciales visant à aplanir les disparités dans les politiques environnementales se révèleraient inefficaces et entraîneraient des conflits destructeurs au sein de l’OMC. L’absence de progrès lors du cycle de Doha suggère qu’il faut modifier le système actuel d’élaboration des politiques mondiales. Classification JEL : F18, Q56.
L'efficacité de l'aide pour réduire la pauvreté : leçons des analyses transversales et influence de la vulnérabilité des pays
Authors: Guillaumont Patrick , Wagner Laurent
Published: January 2014

Les analyses économétriques transversales relatives à l’efficacité de l’aide sont nombreuses et souvent décriées. En s’appuyant sur les résultats de celles qui semblent les plus pertinentes et robustes, cet article soutient que l’aide contribue à réduire la pauvreté, notamment dans les pays vulnérables aux chocs. Il examine les principaux défis méthodologiques auxquels font face ces analyses et qui touchent à la définition de l’aide, à son endogénéité, à l’hétérogénéité des caractéristiques des pays receveurs qui conditionnent son efficacité, à la variabilité de ses rendements, à la dynamique temporelle de son action. Sont successivement explorés trois canaux à travers lesquels l’aide influence la pauvreté : par son effet sur la croissance économique, par son influence sur les dépenses sociales et par son impact macroéconomique stabilisateur, fortement associé aux deux autres canaux. L’impact stabilisateur de l’aide a un rôle majeur pour la réduction de la pauvreté, qui ne peut être mis en lumière sans le recours à des analyses transversales. Classification JEL : F35, O11, O40, C21, I3.
L'(absence d') impact de l'impact : pourquoi les évaluations d'impact conduisent rarement à une prise de décision politique fondée sur les faits
Authors: Arcand Jean-Louis
Published: January 2014

Une question récurrente qui déroute plusieurs chercheurs et certains responsables politiques est celle de savoir pourquoi les évaluations d’impact, qui sont devenues monnaie courante dans le domaine du développement, ont si peu d’impact sur la prise de décision à proprement parler. Dans cet article, j’étudie l’impact des évaluations d’impact. Je fais appel à un cadre bayésien simple emboîté dans un modèle standard reposant sur une fonction de « contest success ». Avec ce modèle de concurrence entre des décideurs anti-évaluation, des décideurs bayésiens et des évaluateurs fréquentistes, je montre que la probabilité d’annulation d’un programme est une fonction décroissante de l’impact estimé par l’évaluation et de la croyance a priori sur la base de laquelle le programme a été initialement approuvé. En outre, la probabilité d’annulation est une fonction décroissante de l’efficacité de l’influence exercée par les évaluateurs fréquentistes. Dans la mesure où il est fort probable que cette efficacité en termes de lobbying des évaluateurs fréquentistes soit proche de zéro dans la vraie vie, la probabilité d’annulation d’un programme qui avait été approuvé au départ, bien qu’il soit entaché d’une évaluation très négative, est extrêmement faible. Le modèle fournit ainsi une explication possible de la raison pour laquelle les évaluations d’impact ont si peu d’impact sur la prise de décision, et pourquoi elles ont si peu contribué à la prise de décision fondée sur les faits. Classification JEL : O12, D04, D72, C11, C21, C72.