bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stabilization of autonomous linear time invariant fractional order derivative switched systems with different derivative in subsystems
Authors: Balochian S.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, the stabilization problem of a autonomous linear time invariant fractional order (LTI-FO) switched system with different derivative order in subsystems is outlined. First, necessary and sufficient condition for stability of an LTI-FO switched system with different derivative order in subsystems based on the convex analysis and linear matrix inequality (LMI) for two subsystems is presented and proved. Also, sufficient condition for stability of an LTI-FO switched system with different derivative order in subsystems for more than two subsystems is proved. Then a sliding sector is designed for each subsystem of the LTI-FO switched system. Finally, a switching control law is designed to switch the LTI-FO switched system among subsystems to ensure the decrease of the norm of the switched system. Simulation results are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed variable structure controller.
A robust fixed-lag smoothing algorithm for dynamic systems with correlated sensor malfunctions
Authors: Grishin Yu.P. , Janczak D.
Published: September 2014

A new robust fixed-lag smoothing algorithm for fault-tolerant signal processing in stochastic dynamic systems in the presence of correlated sensor malfunctions has been developed. The algorithm is developed using a state vector augmentation method and the Gaussian approximation of the current estimate probability density function. The algorithm can be used in the real-time fault-tolerant control systems as well as in radar tracking systems working in the complex interference environment. The performance of the developed algorithm are evaluated by simulations and compared with smoothing and nonlinear filtering algorithms.
Contribution of TiN/Ti/a-C:H multilayers architecture to biological and mechanical properties
Authors: Major L. , Lackner J.M. , Kot M. , Janusz M. , Major B.
Published: September 2014

Complex microstructure analysis of TiN/Ti/a-C:H multilayer coatings, subjected to mechanical and biological tests, were performed by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM), respectively. Influence of interface numbers and phase ratios on coating properties was studied. Thin films were fabricated by a hybrid PLD technique (PLD supported by magnetron sputtering). The a-C:H phase was characterized by an amorphous structure, while TiN was built of columnar crystallites. Multilayer coatings contained sequentially deposited TiN and a-C:H layers with thin metallic Ti inter- layers deposited at each interface. Mechanisms of mechanical wear of analyzed systems were presented focusing on the cracking propagation revealed in the scratch test. Biological tests were done basing on smooth muscle cells adhesion to coating surfaces.

An increase of TiN phase in the coating led to improvement of mechanical properties, while the carbon phase improved the biological behavior. Coatings comprising a higher rate of the carbon (a-C:H) revealed brittleness and were prone to delaminating. Optimal properties from the mechanical and biological point of view were stated for 8xTiN/Ti/a-C:H coating with 1:1 phase ratio (TiN to a-C:H).
Application properties of methods for fault detection and isolation in the diagnosis of complex large-scale processes
Authors: Kościelny J.M. , Syfert M.
Published: September 2014

The survey presents a selection of the methods of the fault detection and isolation suitable to be useful for the diagnostics of the complex, large scale industrial processes. The paper focuses on these methods that have appropriately high level of potential applicability in industrial practice. The novelty of the paper relies on the discussion of the dependency of the level of knowledge about diagnosed process and recommended diagnostic approaches. Appropriate recommendations were given in the convenient form of the table
Optical and electrical properties of (Ti-V)Ox thin film as n-type Transparent Oxide Semiconductor
Authors: Mazur M. , Domaradzki J. , Wojcieszak D.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, the influence of vanadium doping on optical and electrical properties of titanium dioxide thin films has been discussed. The (Ti-V)Ox thin films was deposited on silicon and Corning glass substrates using high energy reactive magnetron sputtering process. Measurements performed with the aid of x-ray diffraction revealed, that deposited thin film was composed of nanocrystalline mixture of TiO2-anatase, V2O3 and β-V2O5 phases. The amount of vanadium in the thin film, estimated on the basis of energy dispersive spectroscopy measurement, was equal to 3 at. %. Optical properties were evaluated based on transmission and reflection measurements. (Ti-V)Ox thin film was well transparent and the absorption edge was shifted by only 11 nm towards longer wavelengths in comparison to undoped TiO2. Electrical measurements revealed, that investigated thin film was transparent oxide semiconductors with n-type electrical conduction and resistivity of about 2.7 · 105 Ωcm at room temperature. Additionally, measured I-V characteristics of TOS-Si heterostructure were nonlinear and asymmetrical.
Aspects of Microsoft Kinect sensor application to servomotor control
Authors: Parzych M. , Dabrowski A. , Cetnarowicz D.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents the design process of a gesture control system based on the Microsoft Kinect sensor. An environment enabling implementation of the integrated system using a variety of equipment and software was selected and prepared. A method for integrating the sensor with the Arduino environment has also been discussed. Algorithms for remote gesture control of the given servodrive angle and the position of the robot arm gripper were prepared. The results of several experiments, which were carried out in order to determine the optimal method for starting, controlling, and stopping the drive and for assessment of the accuracy of the proposed method for the arm control, are presented.
An Effective Method to Evaluate the Scientific Research Projects
Authors: Hou Xiaohui , Huang Lei , Li Xuefei
Published: September 2014

The evaluation of the scientific research projects is an important procedure before the scientific research projects are approved. The BP neural network and linear neural network are adopted to evaluate the scientific research projects in this paper. The evaluation index system with 12 indexes is set up. The basic principle of the neural network is analyzed and then the BP neural network and linear neural network models are constructed and the output error function of the neural networks is introduced. The Matlab software is applied to set the parameters and calculate the neural networks. By computing a real-world example, the evaluation results of the scientific research projects are obtained and the results of the BP neural network, linear neural network and linear regression forecasting are compared. The analysis shows that the BP neural network has higher efficiency than the linear neural network and linear regression forecasting in the evaluation of the scientific research projects problem. The method proposed in this paper is an effective method to evaluate the scientific research projects.
In Memory of Professor Grace Wales Shugar: Introduction to the Special Issues on “Children’s Language and Communicative Knowledge”
Authors: Bokus Barbara
Published: September 2014

This paper is an outline of Grace Wales Shugar’s research approach and some of her main theses in the field of language acquisition and children’s discourse. Her idea of dual agentivity of adult-child interaction shows how to best support children’s communicative skills: It is only when children can show what they know in their own way, and when that child knowledge is received and used in a discourse process, that we can expect a child’s inner motivation to acquire knowledge from others to be maintained and to become a driving force of the child’s further development (Shugar, 1995, p. 233).
The Nature of Child-Adult Interaction. From Turn-Taking to Understanding Pointing and Use of Pointing Gestures
Authors: Białek Arkadiusz , Białecka-Pikul Marta , Stępień-Nycz Małgorzata
Published: September 2014

Analyses of interactions between an adult and a one-year-old child are often connected with studying early communicative competences, e.g. the child’s participation in turn-taking sequences, in joint attention, and use of pointing gestures. Infants’ communicative behaviors were studied using a structured observational measure - the Early Social Communication Scales (Mundy et al., 2003) in a study of 358 12-month-old children. An exploratory factor analysis revealed: (i) a distinction between the categories of initiation and response among the behaviors displayed, (ii) simple and complex behavior categories occurring; (iii) the presence within one factor of behaviors fulfilling various functions (e.g. requesting and sharing interest). An analysis of the results showed that communicative competences can be classified according to their level and ignoring their function, and made it possible to suggest modifications to the way in which behaviors are coded on the ESCS and to complement the procedure of studying early communicative competences.
Deaf Children Building Narrative Texts. Effect of Adult-Shared vs. Non-Shared Perception of a Picture Story
Authors: Tarwacka-Odolczyk Agata , Tomaszewski Piotr , Szymańska Agnieszka , Bokus Barbara
Published: September 2014

This paper discusses the communicative competence of deaf children. It illustrates the process in which such children build narrative texts in interaction with a deaf teacher, and presents the diversity of this process due to the shared vs. non-shared perception of a picture - the source of the topic. Detailed analyses focus on the formal and semantic aspect of the stories, including the length of the text in sign language, the content selected, information categories, and types of answers to the teacher’s questions. This text is our contribution in memory of Professor Grace Wales Shugar, whose idea of dual agentivity of child-adult interaction inspired the research presented here.
Are Neural Substrates of Language and Communication Distinct?
Authors: Rytel Jolanta
Published: September 2014

Universal Grammar serves as a basis for acquiring language competence, but it is not sufficient to acquire communicative competence. To be a competent sender or receiver of an utterance, one needs to be able to infer another person’s intentions or beliefs. In other words, one needs to have a theory of mind. Are then neural substrates of linguistic and communicative abilities distinct, too? The paper characterizes language as a specific human feature and briefly describes both language competence and communicative competence. Finally, it presents the results of an fMRI study according to which communicative and linguistic abilities rely on cerebrally (and computationally) distinct mechanisms.
The impact of explicit and implicit power motivation on educational choices
Authors: Maliszewski Norbert , Kuźmińska Anna O. , Wieczorkowska-Wierzbińska Grażyna , Werner-Maliszewska Anna
Published: September 2014

The aim of three studies was to examine the differences between business majors and non-business majors, in their level of implicit (measured by an Implicit Association Test [IAT], Greenwald, McGhee, & Schwarz, 1998) and explicit power motivation (measured by Power Motivation and Helping Power Motivation scales, Frieze & Boneva, 2001).It was predicted that there are no differences between these two groups in the general (implicit) level of power motivation, but that differences exist in the way it is explicitly expressed: through desire for leadership and prominence vs. desire for helping. Results of Study 1 indicated that business majors (management, N=79) declared a higher leadership motive and a lower helping motive than non-business majors (history, psychology, linguistics, N=62).Study 2 addressed question whether the above differences in power motivation stem from socialization at the university level or from pre-selection. The relationship between high school students’ (N=134) academic major preferences and their power motivation was tested. It was found that the more they were business-oriented, the higher their scores were on leadership, and lower on helping scales. In Study 3, business majors (economics, N=75) and non-business majors (psychology, N=82) completed the same questionnaire as participants in previous studies, as well as performed the IAT. Non-business majors declared stronger explicit helping motive, while business majors expressed stronger prominence and leadership motives. Furthermore, for non-business majors, IAT results could be predicted by their helping score. Implications and possible limitations of the presented results are discussed.
The influence of need for closure on expectations about and outcomes of negotiations
Authors: Pietrzak Janina , Jochemczyk Łukasz , Serbin Piotr , Kuśka Magdalena
Published: September 2014

Need for closure is a construct that describes a motivational tendency to quickly select and prioritize information in the environment. Such tendencies can affect the process of negotiations, and so the quality of their outcome. The rigidity that accompanies high need for closure can lead to less openness to proposals that benefit one’s partner, and to solutions that are less optimal. We conducted a study in which 34 pairs of individuals negotiated. Pairs were matched in terms of need for closure (high vs. low) and gender. We found that need for closure affected subjective evaluations of certain aspects of the negotiation process. Participants with low need for closure were more likely to indicate that they and their partners sought win-win solutions during the negotiation. This led to a greater sense of process fairness for the negotiation. These results can be taken into consideration when teaching negotiations, and when planning real-life negotiations.
Striving for Consistency Shapes Emotional Responses to Other’s Outcomes
Authors: Pietraszkiewicz Agnieszka , Wojciszke Bogdan
Published: September 2014

Based on the balance theory (Heider, 1958), we hypothesized that emotions (i.e., schadenfreude, resentment, joy and sorrow) induced by other person’s outcomes function as responses restoring balance within cognitive units consisting of the perceiver, other persons and their outcomes. As a consequence, emotional reactions towards others’ outcomes depend on the perceiver’s attitudes in such a way that outcomes of a well-liked person rise congruous responses (sorrow after failure and joy after success), while outcomes of a disliked other lead to incongruous responses (schadenfreude after failure and resentment after success). Our participants recalled a situation from their past in which somebody they liked or disliked had succeed or failed. Additionally, we manipulated whether the outcome referred to a domain where participants’ self-interest was involved or not. We analyzed the participants’ average emotional state as well as specific emotions induced by the recalled events. Consistently with expectations we found that balancing principles played a major role in shaping emotional responses to successes and failures of person who were well-liked or disliked.
“Red wins”, “black wins” and “blue loses” effects are in the eye of beholder, but they are culturally universal: A cross-cultural analysis of the influence of outfit colours on sports performance.
Authors: Sorokowski Piotr , Szmajke Andrzej , Hamamura Takeshi , Jiang Feng , Sorokowska Agnieszka
Published: September 2014

Although many studies have demonstrated an influence of uniform colors on sports performance, there are still more questions than answers regarding this issue. In our study, participants from Poland (N = 147) and China (N = 143) watched a two-minute video of a semi-professional boxing match. The participants viewed six different versions of the same fight - the original was modified to change the colors of the boxers’ trunks (red vs. blue, blue vs. red, blue vs. black, black vs. blue, red vs. black, and black vs. red). We experimentally confirmed that “black wins” and “red wins” effects exist, but in a way that caused an erroneous perception of the number of blows landed by boxers wearing red and black trunks fighting against boxers in blue trunks. We also showed that both effects are similarly strong even in Chinese culture, where the color red has different connotations from those in Western cultures. Additionally, our results suggest that context might play a very important role in the assessments of the boxers - color only influenced the perception of the weaker boxer. Finally, our findings suggest that the topic of the influence of colors on sports competitions has not been thoroughly investigated and further studies are necessary.
Typology of taxpayers and tax policy
Authors: Niesiobedzka Malgorzata
Published: September 2014

The issue how to reduce of tax evasion is widely discussed in the literature. A public authority may affect the behavior of taxpayers, not only through economic factors, but also by strengthen fiscal discipline. In this process especially role play such issues as tax morale, tax mentality and perceived tax justice. The purpose of the study was to identify groups of taxpayers with similar attitudes towards taxes and similar tax behaviors. Cluster analysis elicited four types of tax payers: Intrinsic Tax Payer, External Tax Payer, Intrinsic Tax Evader, External Tax Evader. In the study the most common were the first two types of taxpayers. Elicited types correspond with motivational tax postures identified by Braithwaite(2001, 2003) and Torgler (2003). The conclusions sum up the key issues discussed, policy implications and the limitation of the analysis.
Differential S-phase progression after irradiation of p53 functional versus non-functional tumour cells
Authors: Zölzer Friedo , Mußfeldt Tamare , Streffer Christian
Published: September 2014

Background. Many pathways seem to be involved in the regulation of the intra-S-phase checkpoint after exposure to ionizing radiation, but the role of p53 has proven to be rather elusive. Here we have a closer look at the progression of irradiated cells through S-phase in dependence of their p53 status.

Materials and methods. Three pairs of tumour cell lines were used, each consisting of one p53 functional and one p53 non-functional line. Cells were labelled with bromodeoxyuridine(BrdU) immediately after irradiation, they were then incubated in label-free medium, and at different times afterwards their position within the S-phase was determined by means of flow cytometry.

Results. While in the p53 deficient cells progression through S-phase was slowed significantly over at least a few hours, it was halted for just about an hour in the p53 proficient cells and then proceeded without further delay or even at a slightly accelerated pace.

Conclusions. It is clear from the experiments presented here that p53 does play a role for the progress of cells through the S-phase after X-ray exposure, but the exact mechanisms by which replicon initiation and elongation is controlled in irradiated cells remain to be elucidated.
Quality of Life Among HIV Positive Individuals in Kathmandu Valley and Eastern Region of Nepal
Authors: Agrawal H , Mourya R , Shrestha RK , Agrawal S
Published: September 2014

Background The alarming increase of HIV/AIDS, inability to afford highly active anti-retroviral therapy, disability and stigma associated with the disease, loss of productivity due to illness, and chronic nature of the disease has made HIV/AIDS one of the most important public health problems in developing countries. The Quality of life assessment is focused on humanistic element and intervention resulting from this result may lead to better overall patient well being. Objective The aim of our study was to assess and compare the quality of life among HIV positive individuals in Kathmandu Valley & Eastern region. Methods The study was conducted among 228 HIV positive individuals from Eastern Nepal and 213 from Kathmandu valley and they were compared with an equal number of age-sex matched controls from the community. The instrument used was the WHO QOL-BREF Nepali questionnaire. Results The HIV positive individuals had significantly lower (P<0.001) QOL scores than the controls in the overall QOL and all the domains of life: Physical, Psychological, Social and Environmental. HIV positive individuals from Kathmandu valley scored significantly better (P<0.001) scores in the Physical and Environmental domains when compared to HIV positive individuals from Eastern region. HIV positive females had a significantly higher (P<0.02) QOL scores for overall QOL and overall perception of health than the males. Conclusion These findings suggest that HIV positive individuals have a poorer quality of life than the general population in Kathmandu valley & Eastern region of Nepal and interventions could be targeted to improve this aspect of their health. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10985 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):3-7.
Abdominal Circumference as a Screening Measure for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ghosh JR , Bandyopadhyay AR
Published: September 2014

Background No comparative study has been conducted in India considering different anthropometrically derived adiposity measures to study the association with Type 2 Diabetes. Objective This study aims to examine the association of different adiposity measures and to find out the best adiposity measure in assessing Type 2 Diabetes. Method On 187 adult males aged 25-67 years, fasting and two hours postload glucose levels were assessed. Height, weight, hip circumference, and waist circumference at two anatomical sites, one at the level of the greatest anterior extension of the abdomen i.e. abdominal circumference and the other one at the narrowest part of the torso i.e. minimum waist circumference were measured. Waist hip ratio, body mass index, waist height ratio and conicity index were calculated subsequently. Results The prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes was 12.3%. Abdominal circumference revealed the highest odds ratio (OR 2.75; 95% CI 1.45 - 5.23) for Type 2 Diabetes, followed by waist height ratio (OR 1.86; 95% CI 1.05 - 3.32) and minimum waist circumference (OR 1.83; 95%CI 1.03 - 3.26). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of abdominal circumference was also larger (68%; 95%CI: 0.57 - 0.79) compared to other adiposity measures in assessing Type 2 Diabetes. Conclusion Waist circumference measured at the level of greatest anterior extension of the abdomen was the best central adiposity measurement in predicting and assessing Type 2 Diabetes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10987 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):12-15
Preemptive use of Small Dose Fentanyl Suppresses Fentanyl Induced Cough
Authors: Shrestha SK , Bhattarai B , Shah RS
Published: September 2014

Background Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is a popular choice amongst anaesthesiologists in the operating room. Pre induction intravenous fentanyl bolus is associated with coughing in 28 – 65% of patients. Fentanyl induced cough is not always benign and can be remarkably troublesome at the most critical moment of anaesthesia when airway reflex is lost. Objectives To study the effect of pre emptive use of minimal dose fentanyl through the peripheral venous cannulae on the incidence of cough by a larger bolus of intravenous fentanyl. Methods One hundred and fifty patients aged 18 -75 years undergoing elective surgical procedures were randomized into three groups of 50 each. The first group received 0.5 ml saline 0.9 % intravenously one minute prior to the administration of fentanyl 150μg (3 ml); the second group received pre emptive fentanyl 25μg(0.5ml) prior to the administration of fentanyl 125μg(2.5ml); and the third group received preemptive fentanyl 25 μg(0.5ml), followed by the administration of fentanyl 150μg(3ml).. Based on the number of coughs observed, cough severity was graded as mild(1-2), moderate (3-5),or severe (>5). Results The incidence of fentanyl induced cough was significantly lower in both pre emptive group 4(8%) for 125μg fentanyl and 7(14%) for 150μg than in the saline group 15(30%). Conclusion Pre- emptive use of minimal dose fentanyl 25μg administered one minute before a larger bolus dose of fentanyl (125 or 150μg ) can effectively suppress cough. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10988 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):16-19
Assessment of the Knowledge and Attitude on HIV/AIDS Among Drivers’ Wives
Authors: Prajapati LM , Sanjel S
Published: September 2014

Backgroud It is generally accepted and well-documented that long distance drivers remain one of the key forces in the spread of HIV/AIDS as they are highly mobile and spending long hours on the road away from their families which makes them very likely to use the services of commercial sex workers (CSWs). Objectives To identify the knowledge and attitude among Drivers’ wives on HIV/AIDS. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between August and September 2010 to assess the knowledge and attitude of drivers’ wives on HIV/AIDS in Banepa, Dhulikhel and Panuti Municipalities, Kavre district central Nepal. Using social network sampling technique 248 drivers’ wives were selected. Data were obtained using the structured and semi-structured questionnaire through interview technique. Verbal consent was taken before collecting data. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were computed. Results Ninety six percent of the respondents heard of HIV/ AIDS. Majority (65.7%) of the sources of the information were television followed by radio (56.5%), friends (33.5%), husband (19.4%), newspapers (17.7%) and posters (17.3%). The educational status and economic status of the respondents show significant association. The parameters regarding attitude revealed statistical significant. Conclusion The age and ethnicity of the respondents did not exhibit the association with awareness on HIV/ AIDS whereas, educational status and economic status of the respondents and the parameters regarding attitude revealed statistical show significant association. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10989 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):20-24
Endurance Capacity and Cardiorespiratory Responses in Sedentary Females During Different Phases of Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Bandyopadhyay A , Dalui R
Published: September 2014

Background Alteration in physical work capacity of females during different phases of menstrual cycle has been reported in different populations. Pertinent data is unavailable in Eastern Indian population. Objectives The present study was aimed to determine the endurance capacity and cardiorespiratory responses during different phases of menstrual cycle in young sedentary females of Eastern region of India. Methods Forty five unmarried young healthy sedentary females (21–25 years) were recruited in the present investigation. Duration of their menstrual cycle was 28–30 days. Cardiorespiratory parameters including the endurance capacity was determined by treadmill running with constant monitoring of heart rate by Polar heart rate monitor. Results The pre-exercise heart rate was significantly higher (P<0.02) in the luteal phase. The peak heart rate was significantly lower (P<0.02) in the flow phase than the follicular and luteal phases. VO2max, O2 pulse, maximum pulmonary ventilation and endurance capacity were significantly lower in the follicular phase. However, the endurance capacity was significantly lower in the flow phase. Pre-exercise systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not exhibit any significant variation in different phases of menstrual cycle. Conclusion Therefore, from the present observations it may be concluded that pre-exercise heart rate and respiratory rate are significantly higher in the luteal phase whereas VO2max, O2 pulse, maximum pulmonary ventilation, endurance capacity and peak heart rate were significantly lower in the follicular phase. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10990 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):25-29
Outbreak of Cholera in Tilathi VDC Saptari Nepal
Authors: Yadav DK , Tamrakar D , Baral R , Jha P , Gautam S , Pokharel PK
Published: September 2014

Background On 2011, Cluster of cholera cases was reported in the Tilathi VDC of Saptari, Nepal. Objective The outbreak was investigated to identify the etiological agent and possible source of infection and guiding the prevention and control measures. Methods Demographic and clinical details were collected from the suspected case-patients, and the outbreak was described by time, place, and person. Focus group discussion and Key informant interview were conducted to assess the practice of sanitation, source of drinking water and probable cause of diarrheal disease. Five stool samples and 10 water samples of tube well and ponds were collected and microbiological study was done in BPKIHS Dharan. Results A total of 111 persons suffered with diarrhea and 02 died of it (attack rate 3.05%, case fatality rate 1.8%). All age groups were affected with disease (median age 26 yrs) and males were affected more than females. Descriptive epidemiology suggested the clustering of cases were around the pond where they clean utensils, take bath and wash clothes. The Vibrio cholerae 01 El Tor, Ogawa serotype was isolated in 03 out of 05 suspected stool samples and in all three of the pond water samples. They reported that most of the houses do not have the toilet and people do not wash their hands regularly with soap and water after defecation. Conclusion Vibrio cholerae was the causative agent behind the outbreak and probable source of infection was the problematic pond water which they used for different purpose. Immediate chlorination of the pond was recommended to halt further spread of the epidemics. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10992 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):36-39
Oral Tranexamic Acid for the Treatment of Melasma
Authors: Karn D , KC S , Amatya A , Razouria EA , Timalsina M
Published: September 2014

Background Melasma poses a great challenge as its treatment is unsatisfactory and recurrence is high. Treatment of melasma using tranexamic acid (oral, topical or intralesional) is a novel concept. Objective To compare the efficacy of oral tranexamic acid with routine topical therapies for the treatment of melasma. Methods It is a prospective, interventional, randomized controlled trial conducted among 260 melasma patients. Patients were divided into two groups consisting of 130 patients each. First group (Group A) was given routine treatment measures and oral Tranexamic Acid while second group (Group B) was treated only with routine topical measures. Capsule Tranexamic Acid was prescribed at a dose of 250 mg twice a day for three months and cases were followed for three months. Response was evaluated on the basis of Melasma Assessment Severity Index (MASI). Mean scores between the two groups were then compared. Results Statistically significant decrease in the mean Melasma Assessment Severity Index from baseline to 8 and 12 weeks was observed among group A patients (11.08±2.91 vs 8.95±2.08 at week 8 and vs. 7.84±2.44 at week 12; p<0.05 for both). While among group B patients the decrease in mean score was significant at 8 weeks and insignificant at 12 weeks follow up (11.60±3.40 vs 9.9±2.61 at 8 weeks and vs. 9.26±3 at 12 weeks; p<0.05 for former but p>0.05 for later). Conclusion Addition of oral tranexamic acid provides rapid and sustained improvement in the treatment of melasma. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10993 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):40-43
Intrauterine Foetal Death and Its Probable Causes: Two Years Experience in Dhulikhel Hospital – Kathmandu University Hospital
Authors: Tamrakar SR , Chawla CD
Published: September 2014

Background World health Organization definition of intrauterine foetal demise encompasses any abortion or fetal demise prior to expulsion from its mother, and recommends different protocols according to gestational age. However, conventionally and also in our institution, foetal demise prior to 28 weeks of gestation is managed as abortion in a manner different from foetal demise post 28 weeks of gestation. Objective To find the incidence and characteristics of pregnancies that resulted in stillbirths. Methods A retrospective study, done in Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital in the year 2010 and 2011, among 4219 deliveries and 97 fetal deaths. Cases of multiple pregnancy and fetal death diagnosed by ultrasound before the 28th week of gestation were excluded. The included intrauterine foetal demise cases (n=90) were compared with a control group of randomly selected pregnancies (n = 537) delivered during the same time period. Assumed predictors of stillbirth were examined through inferential ways (Chi square, t test) using SPSS Version 13.0 for Windows. Results Incidence of intrauterine foetal demise was 2.13% in the year 2010 and 2011. Mothers in the stillbirth group were slightly older than mothers of live-born infants (25.47±5.64 years vs 23.62±4.31 years, p value=0.000). A slightly higher proportion of women in the stillbirth group were of Tamang ethnic origin and primiparous (p = 0.011, 0.000) . Foetus expelled after IUFD had lower weight compared to live births, (2925.14±444.14gram vs 2182.78±821.04gram, p=0.000) for gestational age. The stillborn babies were generally born at an earlier gestational age, as would be expected (p=0.000). Incidence of intrauterine foetal demise gradually decreases as parity advances. The incidence was higher in patients receiving antenatal care outside Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital. Conclusions While comparing the subject with the theme of the national conference of Nepal Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologist, most of the cases were mother not receiving antenatal care or those receiving antenatal care in the periphery, There is no denying that there would be a massive improvement in women’s health if the co-ordination between the peripheral health care center and tertiary care center was to be improved. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10994 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):44-48
Breech Presentation Among Nullipara at Term: An Indication for Caesarean Section
Authors: Dongol A , Regmi S , Manandhar S , KC S
Published: September 2014

Background Breech is the commonest malpresentation. Vaginal breech delivery in a nulliparous lady carries higher risk than in multiparous ladies. Poor neonatal outcome following vaginal delivery has made the mode of delivery a matter of controversy. Objective To evaluate the outcome of planned caesarean section among nullipara ladies with breech presentation. Method This is a prospective, analytical study conducted in Dhulikhel Hospital Kathmandu University Hospital from January 2008 to June 2012 among 102 nullipara ladies at term gestation with breech presentation. All cases underwent caesarean section either elective or emergency. During section cause of breech presentation was searched for. Neonatal condition was evaluated using APGAR Score, need for resuscitation and admission in NICU. Post partum status was also recorded for evaluation of maternal morbidity and mortality. Results These Nullipara ladies often had some reason for breech presentation, the most common being cord around the neck. Perinatal outcome was uneventful in 97(95%) neonates, there were two (2%) still birth and three (3%) needed NICU care. APGAR was good in 92 neonates, average in eight and poor in two. Total 16(15.6%) ladies stayed hospital for more than eight days. Among them 11(10.7%) developed wound infection and five stayed in hospital waiting for baby. Conclusion Nullipara ladies with breech presentation should have elective caesarean section as a preferred route of delivery. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10998 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):66-69
Study of Poisoning Cases in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Karki RK , Risal A
Published: September 2014

Background Poisoning is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Nepal and also a major public health problem worldwide. A thorough review of the risk factors helps to decrease the incidence and mortality. The study evaluates the cases admitted in Dhulikhel Hospital, Kavre, Various parameters like age, sex, marital status, time of ingestion, month of occurrence, agent responsible for incidence; type of poisoning, psychosocial problem, outcome and duration of treatment are analyzed. Objectives The objectives of this study are to determine the pattern and severity of poisoning cases admitted to Dhulikhel Hospital. Methods A hospital based study was carried out in the patient admitted to Dhulikhel Hospital with the history of poisoning for the period of one year between April 2011 to March 2012. Various parameters were analyzed and compared with other study. Results There were 137 cases during the one year duration and maximum case belonged to second and third decade of life. Most common manner of poisoning was suicidal and the incidence was mainly during evening hours. Organophosphorus was the most commonly abused substance. Most of the cases had arrived hospital after one hour of exposure and duration of hospital stay in many cases were less than four days. Conclusion Based on these findings preventive measures like precaution taken at various levels, restriction in free sale of the poisons and promoting Poison Information Centers along with public awareness and proper psychosocial management to decrease the incidence and mortality in poisoning cases can be suggested. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10999 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):70-73
Post Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) Presenting with Ulcerated Chronic Paronychia Like Lesion
Authors: Jha AK , Anand V , Mallik SK , Kumar P
Published: September 2014

A 50-year-old lady, resident of urban Bihar, presented with inflamed proximal nail fold of a single digit for one and half months. The lesion on distal finger was remarkable for ulceration. Mucocutaneous examination revealed multiple hypopigmented macules and patches, notable for absence of scaling. The presence of ulceration was not consistent with chronic paronychia, hence, she was asked for biopsy. She declined and opted for trial of antibiotic and anti-fungal treatment. At two weeks of follow up, no improvement was noted at all. At the same time, she developed multiple juicy papules in perioral area and on neck. She tested positive by rK 39 tests. Histopathology from periungual area showed LD body. She was diagnosed as Post Kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis and was treated with miltefosine 50 mg twice daily for three months, resulting in complete resolution of all lesions. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.11010 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):87-90
Abnormal Length and Position of the Sigmoid Colon and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Nayak SB , George BM , Mishra S
Published: September 2014

Sigmoid colon is one of the most variable parts of the large intestine. Here we report a very rare type of variation of the sigmoid colon. This variation was observed during the routine dissections for undergraduate medical students at Melaka Manipal Medical College (Manipal Campus) India in September 2012. In the current case, the sigmoid colon was about 60cms long and made an inverted U shaped loop in front of the descending colon and the left kidney. It had a sigmoid mesocolon which covered the left kidney. The sigmoid colon had an ascending and a descending limb. This position of sigmoid colon and its mesocolon is dangerous as it can get twisted to form a volvulus. It also might cause confusions in radiologic and sigmoidoscopy techniques. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.11012 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):95-97
Ambiguities of Space and Control: When Refugee Camp and Nomadic Encampment Meet
Authors: Wilson Alice
Published: September 2014

This article explores sedentarisation as a process of inherent tension between the rupture and preservation of values associated with mobility. This tension is compelling when mobile pastoralists settle in refugee camps. Refugee camps may resemble nomadic encampments in material infrastructure and (alleged) non-permanence. Yet refugee camps contrast with nomadic encampments in facilitating control and evoking, through its disruption, rootedness. In the case of refugees of mobile pastoralist heritage from the disputed territory of Western Sahara, the tension in the meeting of nomadic encampment and refugee camps sees the nomadic encampment reproduced and transformed in the refugee camp. This creates ambiguities of space and control.
'They Talk to Us but Never Listen to Us': Development-Induced Displacement among Syria's Bedouin
Authors: Dukhan Haian
Published: September 2014

The Bedouin constitute an important part of Syrian society, having pursued a nomadic way of life in the Syrian steppe (
al-Badia
) for centuries. However, since the 1960s, new challenges have emerged that threaten the Bedouin way of survival and their culture in Syria. Economic and environmental factors in addition to government policies have threatened desert culture and the traditional livelihoods of the Bedouin and have pushed them to give up their life in the desert and move to live on the outskirts of cities. Through a synthesis of ethnographic, economic, environmental and geographical data, this paper will explore changes among the Bedouin, with specific interest in how they relate to resettlement in terms of 'development-induced displacement'. The Bedouin in Syria, like mobile indigenous people all over the world, are facing a combination of challenges, from extreme climatic and environmental changes to increasing marginalisation and sedentarisation by the governments of the countries they live in. They also find it hard to influence policy-making in any projects initiated by international development agencies on their lands and migratory routes. This study will shed light on the policies of the Syrian government and international development agencies in dealing with the Bedouin in Syria and investigate how these policies have contributed to Bedouin settlement.
'Unused' Land and Unfulfilled Promises: Justifications for Displacing Communities in East Africa
Authors: Galaty John G.
Published: September 2014

Recent studies of large-scale land acquisitions, colloquially known as 'land grabbing', have reviewed factors driving international land deals, conditions that make regions vulnerable to land loss and anticipated outcomes for current land holders. Diverse audiences are persuaded by justificatory narratives of the reasonableness of transfers of land rights. which explain away large-scale transfers of land from farmers to commercial enterprises in order to disarm critics and agents of resistance, and establish a foundation of ideas that underpins perceived reality. With reference to cases of systematic dispossession in East Africa, this paper will focus on three types of pragmatic narratives used to justify land appropriation: the type-casting of lands and resident populations being targeted, the often utopian goals of development being pursued and the investment commitments being made. It asks whether the rationales that underpin large-scale land allocations by states reflects the type of utilitarian logic depicted by Rawls in his work on theories of justice, where hypothetical theories of end-goals are used to abrogate concrete rights held by actual individuals and communities.
Patient‐centered, evidence‐based, and cost‐conscious cancer care across the continuum: Translating the Institute of Medicine report into clinical practice
Authors: Nekhlyudov Larissa , Levit Laura , Hurria Arti , Ganz Patricia A.
Published: September 2014

In 2013, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) concluded that cancer care in the United States is in crisis. Patients and their families are not receiving the information that they need to make informed decisions about their cancer care. Many patients do not have access to palliative care and too few are referred to hospice at the appropriate point in their disease trajectory. Simultaneously, there is a growing demand for cancer care with increases in new cancer diagnoses and the number of patients surviving cancer. Furthermore, there is a workforce shortage to care for this growing and elderly population. The IOM's report, Delivering High‐Quality Cancer Care: Charting a New Course for a System in Crisis, outlined recommendations to improve the quality of cancer care. This article provides an overview of the IOM report and highlights the recommendations that are most relevant to practicing clinicians who care for patients with cancer across the continuum. The implementation of the recommendations in clinical practice will require better patient‐clinician communication, improved care coordination, targeted clinician training, effective dissemination of evidence‐based guidelines and strategies for eliminating waste, and continuous quality assessment and improvement efforts. CA Cancer J Clin 2014;64:408–421. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Piezoelectric Biosensors for Organophosphate and Carbamate Pesticides: A Review
Authors: Marrazza Giovanna
Published: September 2014

Due to the great amount of pesticides currently being used, there is an increased interest for developing biosensors for their detection. Among all the physical transducers, piezoelectric systems have emerged as the most attractive due to their simplicity, low instrumentation costs, possibility for real-time and label-free detection and generally high sensitivity. This paper presents an overview of biosensors based on the quartz crystal microbalance, which have been reported in the literature for organophosphate and carbamate pesticide analysis.
Radiation-Driven Migration: The Case of Minamisoma City, Fukushima, Japan, after the Fukushima Nuclear Accident
Authors: Zhang Hui , Yan Wanglin , Oba Akihiro , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2014

The emigration of residents following the Fukushima nuclear accident has resulted in aging and depopulation problems in radiation-contaminated areas. The recovery of affected areas, and even those areas with low radioactive pollution levels, is still heavily affected by this problem. This slow recovery consequently affects immigration patterns. This review aims to present possible factors that have contributed to this dilemma. We first present an overview of the evacuation protocol that was administered in the study area following the Fukushima accident. We then analyze characteristics of the subsequent exodus by comparing population data for both before and after the accident. Based on the findings of existing literature, we identify three causes of emigration: (1) The health risks of living in a low radiation zone are still unknown; (2) The post-disaster psychological disturbance and distrust of government information promotes the emigration of evacuees; (3) an absence of economic vitality and of a leading industry renders the area less attractive to individuals residing outside of the city. Further research is needed on this issue, especially with respect to countermeasures for addressing this problem.