bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid denudation of Higher Himalaya during late Pliestocence, evidence from OSL thermochronology
Authors: Sarkar Sharmistha , Mathew George , Pande Kanchan , Chauhan Naveen , Singhvi Ashok
Published: September 2013

Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) of quartz, with closure temperatures of 30–35°C in conjunction with Apatite Fission Track (AFT; closure temp. ∼120°C) and 40Ar-39Ar (biotite closure temperature ∼350°C), were used to obtain cooling ages from Higher Himalayan crystalline rocks of Western Arunachal Himalaya (WAH). Cooling age data based on OSL, AFT and Ar-Ar thermochronology provide inference on the exhumation — erosion history for three different time intervals over million to thousand year scale.

Steady-state exhumation of ∼0.5 mm/yr was observed during Miocene (>7.2 Ma) till Early Pleistocene (1.8 Ma). Onset of Pleistocene glacial/interglacial conditions from ∼1.8 Ma formed glaciated valleys and rapid erosion with rivers incising deep valleys along their course. Erosion enables midcrustal partial melts to move beneath the weak zone in the valley and causes an erosion-induced tectonic uplift. This resulted in a rapid increase in exhumation rate. The OSL thermochronology results suggest increased erosion over ∼21 ka period from Late Pleistocene (2.5 mm/yr) to Early Holocene (5.5 mm/yr) and these are to be contrasted with pre 1.8 Ma erosion rate of 0.5 mm/yr. Enhanced erosion in the later stage coincides with the periods of deglaciation during Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) 1 and 2. The results of the present study suggest that in the present setting OSL thermochronology informed on the short-term climatic effect on landscape evolution and techniques like the AFT and 40Ar-39Ar provided longer-term exhumation histories.
Residual doses and sensitivity change of post IR IRSL signals from potassium feldspar under different bleaching conditions
Authors: Chen Yiwei , Li Sheng-Hua , Li Bo
Published: September 2013

The residual doses and sensitivity change for potassium-rich feldspar (K-feldspar) have been studied using the post-infrared infrared stimulated luminescence (pIRIR) and multi-elevated-temperature post-IR IRSL (MET-pIRIR) protocols. Laboratory simulated poorly-bleached and well-bleached samples were those K-feldspar grains bleached using a solar simulator for 10 minutes and 8 hours, respectively. The residual doses rise with stimulation temperature and time. The poorly-bleached sample has larger residual doses than the well-bleached sample, especially at high stimulation temperatures. The high-temperature pIRIR signals contain a large amount of hard-to-bleach signals. A decrease of luminescence sensitivity was observed after conducting a high-temperature-treatment in the measurement cycles. The sensitivity decreases significantly between the first and the second cycle. The extent of decrease in sensitivity shows a clear temperature trend. The higher the stimulation temperature of pIRIR signals is, the larger the sensitivity decreases. This decrease is more severe for the poorly-bleached sample than for the well-bleached sample, and could possibly lead to problems in sensitivity correction.
Editing the Nepalese Journal of Ophthalmology: a voyage of five years
Authors: Badhu B , Kadel T
Published: September 2013

Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 143-144 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8703
Prospective comparison of chilled versus room temperature saline irrigation in alcohol-assisted photorefractive keratectomy
Authors: Neuffer Marcus C , Khalifa YM , Moshirfar M , Mifflin MD
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Chilled saline is commonly used to irrigate the ocular surface after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and is often considered by the patients to be uncomfortable. Room temperature (non-chilled) saline may be a safe and less painful alternative. Objectives: To compare pain and visual outcomes after irrigating the ocular surface with chilled saline versus room temperature saline in alcohol assisted PRK. Materials and methods: In this prospective, single-masked, randomized, contralateral eye study, myopic eyes were treated with PRK. Immediately after laser ablation one eye was irrigated with chilled saline and the other with non-chilled saline. Primary outcomes measured were pain, haze, uncorrected (UCVA) and best-corrected (BCVA) visual acuities, and manifest refraction. Results: Each group comprised of 40 eyes. There was no significant difference in pain between the groups at any point during five days after surgery. At 6 months the mean UCVA was -0.08 logMAR ± .077 [SD] (20/17) and -0.07 ± .074 logMAR (20/17) in the chilled and non-chilled groups respectively (p =.35). Both groups achieved 95% UCVA of 20/20 or better. The manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) was -0.05 ± 0.21 D and -0.025 ± 0.27 D respectively (p = .79). There were no lines lost of BCVA and no haze observed. Similar outcomes were observed with regard to pain and vision in both groups. Conclusion: The use of room temperature saline irrigation during PRK appears to be safe and effective. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 154-160 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8706
Computer vision syndrome: a study of knowledge and practices in university students
Authors: Reddy S Chandrasekhara , Low CK , Lim YP , Low LL , Mardina F , Nursaleha MP
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a condition in which a person experiences one or more of eye symptoms as a result of prolonged working on a computer. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of CVS symptoms, knowledge and practices of computer use in students studying in different universities in Malaysia, and to evaluate the association of various factors in computer use with the occurrence of symptoms. Material and methods: In a cross sectional, questionnaire survey study, data was collected in college students regarding the demography, use of spectacles, duration of daily continuous use of computer, symptoms of CVS, preventive measures taken to reduce the symptoms, use of radiation filter on the computer screen, and lighting in the room. Results: A total of 795 students, aged between 18 and 25 years, from five universities in Malaysia were surveyed. The prevalence of symptoms of CVS (one or more) was found to be 89.9%; the most disturbing symptom was headache (19.7%) followed by eye strain (16.4%). Students who used computer for more than 2 hours per day experienced significantly more symptoms of CVS (p=0.0001). Looking at far objects in-between the work was significantly (p=0.0008) associated with less frequency of CVS symptoms. The use of radiation filter on the screen (p=0.6777) did not help in reducing the CVS symptoms. Conclusion: Ninety percent of university students in Malaysia experienced symptoms related to CVS, which was seen more often in those who used computer for more than 2 hours continuously per day. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 161-168 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8707
Retinoblastoma: geographic distribution and presentation at a tertiary eye care centre in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Saiju Rohit , Moore G , Shrestha U , Shrestha MK , Ruit S
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Several aspects of retinoblastoma in Nepal remain enigmatic. Objective: To assess the demographic and geographic distribution, clinical presentation, and treatment methods of retinoblastoma at a tertiary level ophthalmic institution in Kathmandu, Nepal. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of all the patients diagnosed with retinoblastoma at Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology from July 2004 to June 2008 was performed. The main outcome measures included region of residence, treatment options and histopathological findings. The histopathological analysis was performed on enucleated and exenterated specimens. Statistics: The statistical analysis was performed with SPSS Version 11.5. Descriptive statistics are represented as mean ± standard deviation. All tests were two-sided and the P-values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Thirty patients presented with retinoblastoma during the study period. The mean age at presentation was 2.5 ± 1.6 years (range five months to seven years). Ten of the 12 patients who presented with bilateral retinoblastoma (83 %) were from the Terai region of Nepal. The ratio of unilateral to bilateral cases in the Terai region was 1:2. This differed significantly with the ratio in the hilly region (Fisher’s Exact Test, p = 0.0012). The mean duration of symptoms before presentation was 2.5 3.2 months (range three days to 12 months). Twenty-four patients (80 %) presented with leukocoria. Eleven patients (36.6 %) presented with leukocoria as their only symptom. Ninety-seven percent of the patients underwent either enucleation (90 %) or exenteration (6.7 %) of at least one eye. Conclusion: Bilateral retinoblastoma is more prevalent in the Terai region of Nepal. The majority of the patients present with leucokoria and are treated with enucleation. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 169-176 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8708
Surgical outcomes of minimally invasive vitrectomy surgery in Eales’ disease
Authors: Khanduja S , Gupta S , Sinha S , Venkatesh Pradeep , Vohra R , Garg S
Published: September 2013

Introduction: The results of surgical outcomes of 20 gauge pars plana vitrectomy in Eales’ disease are available in the scientific literature. However, all these studies have been done using the 20 gauge vitrectomy systems and most studies have been conducted in a retrospective manner. Objective: To evaluate the outcomes and safety of 23 gauge vitrectomy in complications of Eales’ disease. Materials and methods: Study design: Consecutive interventional case series. Participants: Seventy-six eyes of 72 nonconsecutive patients undergoing 23-gauge vitrectomy for complications of Eales’ disease were enrolled. The participants were followed up for a minimum of one year. Intervention: The participants underwent a complete demographic, medical and ophthalmic evaluation. A 23-gauge vitrectomy was performed. Endotamponade was used when necessary. Perioperative and postoperative events were recorded. Primary outcome measures were visual acuity and complications arising due to surgery. Results: Indication for surgery was non-clearing vitreous hemorrhage in 89.4% (68/76) and secondary retinal detachment in 10.6% (8). Visual acuity improved from Log Mar 1.80 ± 0.19 units preoperatively to Log Mar 0.47±0.59. Best-corrected visual acuity equivalent to Snellen 6/9 was achieved in 77. 6% of eyes. . Surgical failure was seen in 6.5% cases. Four cases were lost due to progression to neovascular glaucoma and 1 case was lost to severe residual retinal detachment. Iatrogenic portside retinal breaks occurred in 3.9% (3), post-vitrectomy retinal detachment 2.6% ( 2), hypotony 1.3% (1) and cataract in 38.1% (28) cases. Conclusion: 23-gauge sutureless vitrectomy in patients with Eales’ disease is a safe and effective technique with acceptable level of risk and complications. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 182-189 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8710
A comparative study of intraocular pressure measurement by three tonometers in normal subjects
Authors: Prabhakar SK , Mahesh BS , Shanthamallappa M
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Contact Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) is gold standard for measuring intraocular pressure; however its routine use is limited by its non-portability and the need for a Slit Lamp Microscope. The Portable Perkins tonometer is also considered gold standard because it is based on the same principles as the GAT. The iCare is a newly introduced, portable, non-contact tonometer (NCT) that measures intraocular pressure (IOP) using a thin metallic probe. Objective: To evaluate reliability and accuracy of IOP measurements using iCare and Keeler Pulsair tonometers against Perkins tonometer. Subjects and methods: A comparative, randomized, prospective clinical study conducted on 166 eyes of 83 (n=83) subjects in the age group 14 to 71 years. The pressures were first recorded by iCare and Pulsair and then by Perkins. The SPSS 11.00 version was used for analysis. Results: Mean pressures and standard deviation (+/-SD) for iCare, Pulsair and Perkins were 14.62(+/- 2.47), 14.53(+/-3.36) and 13.06(+/-2.69) and the Standard Error of the Mean (SEM) was 0.27, 0.36 and 0.30 respectively. There was a good correlation between iCare and Perkins with statistically significant difference (r=0.610, p <0.05). Regression analysis was performed. Using the Bland-Altman analysis 95% Limits of Agreement (LoA) for iCare and Pulsair were determined as -6.1 to 2.9 and -4.5 to 7.5 respectively. Conclusion: Although both tonometers overestimated the Perkins values, Pulsair showed a better agreement with Perkins tonometer than iCare tonometer. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 201-206 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8729
Indications for keratoplasty in Nepal: 2005 - 2010
Authors: Bajracharya Leena , Gurung R , DeMarchis EH , Oliva M , Ruit S , Tabin G
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Corneal disease, especially infective keratitis, is one of the major causes of visual impairment and blindness in developing countries. Objective: To find out the current indications for keratoplasty, how these indications have changed over time as well as how they are different from those in other parts of the world. Materials and methods: A retrospective study of a case series of 645 keratoplasty surgeries (589 patients) was conducted at the Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology from January 2005 to December 2010. Outcome measures: The cases were evaluated in terms of demographic parameters, preoperative diagnosis and the type of surgery performed. Results: The most common indication for surgery was active infectious keratitis (264 eyes, 40.9 %), followed by corneal opacity (173 eyes, 26.8 %), regraft (73 eyes, 11.2 %), bullous keratopathy (58 eyes, 9.0 %), keratoconus (45 eyes, 7.0 %) and corneal dystrophy (11 eyes, 1.7 %). The mean recipient age was 41.7 ± 19.9 years with over a half of the patients between 15 to 49 years of age. More men (64.1 %) underwent keratoplasty than women (35.8 %). 59.8 % of the eyes with infectious keratitis had a perforated corneal ulcer. 49.7 % of corneal opacities were due to previous infectious keratitis. 72 % of regrafts were for endothelial failure of various causes. In older patients (> 50 years), bullous keratopathy was an important indication, after infectious keratitis. Keratoconus and corneal scar were major causes of keratoplasty in children of 14 years or less. Four percent of the patients had keratoplasty in both the eyes. 17.1 % of the patients who had one eye operated on had a blind fellow eye with a vision of less than 3/60. Conclusion: Currently, keratitis, either active or healed, is the major indication for keratoplasty, suggesting that improved primary eye health care is necessary to decrease the prevalence of corneal blindness. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 207-214 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8730
Keratometric astigmatism evaluation after trabeculectomy
Authors: Kumari Rashmi , Saha BC , Puri LR
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Post-operative astigmatism is one of the most important causes for diminution of vision after trabeculectomy. Objective: To evaluate the induced corneal astigmatism following trabeculectomy with the use of 8-0 silk suture. Materials and methods: A prospective interventional study was done including 100 consecutive eyes of 84 patients who underwent trabeculectomy with the use of 8-0 silk suture. The postoperative induced astigmatism on the 1st post-operative day, 3rd week and after 6 months was determined. Statistics: Vector analysis was performed on the data using a computerized method for calculating the surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) for each eye at every time point postoperatively. In order to analyze group changes, we also performed vector decomposition which gave us a mathematical expression of the changes in astigmatism “with the rule” (WTR) or “against the rule” (ATR). Results: The mean age of all the patients was 53.31 11.39 years. The mean 1st post-operative surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) was 2.73 D ( 99 degree ) which reduced to 0.41 D ( 58 degree) at the 3rd week and 0.43 ( 21 degree) at 6 months. The mean WTR astigmatism was 4.46 D and ART astigmatism was 1.42 D on the 1st post-operative day which was significantly high ( p<0.0001). At the 3rd week and 6 months WTR astigmatism ( 1.40 D and 1.08D ) and ATR astigmatism (1.27 D and 1.10 D) showed no significant changes (p=0.69,0.97 respectively. Conclusion: Trabeculectomy with the use of 8/0 silk sutures showed significantly high 1st post-operative day SIA which nevertheless perished fast to a minimum amount at just 3 weeks. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 215-219 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8731
Comparison between limbal (von Noorden) and para limbal (Santiago) conjunctival incisions for adjustable recessions of horizontal recti
Authors: Agrawal Siddharth , Singh V , Gupta SK , Agrawal S
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Both limbal and para limbal conjunctival incisions are routinely used in strabismus surgery with comparable results however their outcome has not been compared while using adjustable sutures. Objective: To compare limbal (von Noorden) and para limbal (Santiago) conjunctival incisions for adjustable recessions of horizontal recti. Subjects and methods: Uniocular adjustable recessions (with conventional non adjustable resection) in 24 appropriate patients were performed according to standard slip knot technique. The patients were assigned to the two groups after obtaining an informed consent using systematmic randomization. Twelve patients in first group received the von Noorden incision with bare sclera closure and 12 in the second group received the Santiago’s modification of Swan incision with deferred closure. The surgeries were performed by a single surgeon and the adjustments performed after 24 hours. The incisions were studied on the established subjective (pain) and objective (hyperaemia, chemosis, discharge and gap in incision) variables at follow ups of 1st day post adjustment, 2 weeks and 12 weeks. Statistics: ‘Repeated Measures Anova’ test was used for statistical analysis. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The limbal incision was superior to the paralimbal incision on both objective and subjective criteria by ‘Repeated Measures Anova’ test. Conclusion: We recommend using limbal incision and avoiding para limbal incisions while performing adjustable recessions. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 220-225 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8732
Calcium carbide related ocular burn injuries during mango ripening season of West Bengal, eastern India
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Sabyasachi , Saha M , Biswas S , Ranjan A , Naskar AK , Bandyopadhyay L
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Calcium carbide used in fruit ripening industry as a cheap alternative to natural plant hormone ethylene produces highly inflammable acetylene gas. Inadvertent ignition of this gas can cause severe ocular burn injury with unilateral or bilateral blindness. Objective: To determine the characteristics and visual outcome of ocular burn injuries from calcium carbide during mango ripening season of West Bengal, eastern India. Materials and methods: A prospective study of all cases of calcium carbide related ocular burn injury attending a tertiary care hospital during mango ripening season was carried out. The demographic features, characteristics of the injury, management and outcomes were recorded. Results: Fifty five eyes of 33 patients were studied. Males were more commonly affected (20 patients, 60.6%) than females. The injury was bilateral in 22 patients (66.66%). Seventeen patients (51.51%) were below 20 years of age. Ten eyes had open globe injuries and 45 eyes had closed globe injuries. One eye of a patient had to be enucleated (3%). Children below 14 years of age were mainly injured while playing with indigenous fireworks of shooting carbide. Middle aged women were affected particularly during ignition of evening lamps. Carbide lamp was another source of injury. Conclusion: Males are more commonly affected by calcium carbide related ocular injuries. Children and young adults are the common victims. Such injuries can involve both the eyes and cause a permanent visual disability. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 242-245 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8736
Myopia in school children from high mountain region of Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Sirjana
Published: September 2013

Objective: Myopia is emerging as a public health problem in school going children. Prevalence of myopia differs in different geographical areas, race, ethnic groups and socioeconomic background. Purpose of this study was to find out myopia prevalence in schoolchildren from very high mountain region of Nepal. Materials and methods: It was a cross sectional descriptive study. Vision screening was conducted in Snowland School among the children who come from high mountain region. Vision screening was done by volunteers using standard Snellen’s chart. Those who failed screening test underwent a detailed ophthalmological examination by a pediatric ophthalmologist. Results: A total of 140 children had their vision assessed. Mean age was 13.9yrs (±2.8yrs SD). On screening, 28.5% children (n=40) had vision less than 6/9 in at least one eye. Seven children were already wearing myopic glasses, among which only 2 had vision 6/9 or better. Out of 40 children, 10% (n=4) had vision 6/9 or better and 90% (n=36) had refractive error. Out of these 36 children, myopia was present in all (100%).Hence prevalence of Myopia in total school population was 27% (n=38).All the children had simple Myopia from 0.5D-3.5D. After refractive correction, all the children had best corrected visual acuity of 6/9 or better. 86 % (n=120) children never had their eyes checked before. Conclusion The study showed high prevalence of myopia and was only ocular morbidity present in children. The result of this study can be a baseline in conducting large population based study in children from high mountains of Nepal. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 246-249 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8737
Retinal functional imager (RFI): Non-invasive functional imaging of the retina
Authors: Ganekal Sunil
Published: September 2013

Retinal functional imager (RFI) is a unique non-invasive functional imaging system with novel capabilities for visualizing the retina. The objective of this review was to show the utility of non-invasive functional imaging in various disorders. Electronic literature search was carried out using the websites www.pubmed.gov and www.google.com. The search words were retinal functional imager and non-invasive retinal imaging used in combination. The articles published or translated into English were studied. The RFI directly measures hemodynamic parameters such as retinal blood-flow velocity, oximetric state, metabolic responses to photic activation and generates capillary perfusion maps (CPM) that provides retinal vasculature detail similar to flourescein angiography. All of these parameters stand in a direct relationship to the function and therefore the health of the retina, and are known to be degraded in the course of retinal diseases. Detecting changes in retinal function aid early diagnosis and treatment as functional changes often precede structural changes in many retinal disorders. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 250-257 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8738
Ocular imaging findings of bilateral optic disc pit in a child
Authors: Ozkaya Abdullah , Alkin Z , Taylan AT , Demirok A
Published: September 2013

Background: To report a rare condition of bilateral optic disc pit in a child. Case description: A ten-year-old female was admitted with a complaint of headache. Visual acuity was 20/20 in both eyes (OU). Anterior segment examination was normal in OU. Fundus examination revealed optic disc pit (ODP) located temporally with a diameter of 1/5 disc diameter in OU. Intraocular pressure was within normal limits in both eyes. Macular optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed a loss of retinal tissue at the site corresponding to the ODP in both eyes. Retinal nerve fiber OCT revealed decreased RNFL thickness at the temporal side of the optic nerve, corresponding to the ODP in both eyes. The patient and patient’s parents were informed about the disease and called for follow-up examinations every 6 months. In addition, the family was informed about optic pit maculopathy (OPM) and, they were told to return immediately if the patient ever complained of decreased vision in either of her eyes. After a follow-up period of 12 months, visual acuity remained stable, and no complications secondary to ODP were detected. Conclusion: Optic disc pit is diagnosed incidentally unless it is complicated with OPM. The retinal nerve fiber layer thickness is decreased at the side of the optic nerve corresponding to the ODP. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 258-261 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8739
Conjunctival Kaposi’s sarcoma as the initial manifestation of acquired inmunodeficiency syndrome
Authors: Rodriguez Carlos Izquierdo , Cordova JM
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Kaposi’s sarcoma is a common neoplasm in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Its presentation as an initial manifestation of AIDS is very rare . Objective: To report a rare case with Kaposi’s’s sarcoma as an initial manifestation of AIDS. Case: We report the case of a 37-year-old man who was a parenteral drug addict, HIV seropositive and was not under any treatment with a conjunctival lesion which was diagnosed as Kaposi’s sarcoma after surgical resection. Conjunctival Kaposi’s sarcoma is present frequently in HIV patients and lesions may be mistaken with other conjunctival lesions. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 265-267 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8741
Recurrence of uveal malignant melanoma: a case report
Authors: Thapa Madhu , Shrestha GB , Sharma AK , Karki S , Khanal S
Published: September 2013

Background: Malignant melanoma of uveal tract is a rare ocular malignancy. It is one of the significant causes of ocular morbidity and mortality which is less commonly seen in children. Case: We report an unusual case of orbital recurrence of malignant melanoma in a 14-yearold boy who had previously undergone enucleation of the left painful blind eye 8 months ago. He was diagnosed to have uveal malignant melanoma elsewhere which was confirmed by histopathology. Orbital recurrence was managed with modified exenteration with adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Conclusion: In all treated cases of uveal melanoma, close follow up examination and monitoring is necessary for early diagnosis of the recurrence and to plan for further management. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 275-278 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8744
Central Retinal Arterial Occlusion (CRAO) after Phacoemulsification-A Rare Complication
Authors: Lamichhane Gyanendra , Gautam P
Published: September 2013

Background: While peribulbar anesthesia is generally safe, a remote risk of retinal vascular accident exists and its routine use should be done with caution. Objective: To report a case of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) that occurred within 24 hours of routine uneventful phacoemulsification cataract surgery using peribulbar anesthesia. We share our experience of a 45-year old man who underwent uneventful clear corneal temporal incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery using peribulbar lignocain injection with adrenaline. Case: A Patient who underwent routine phacoemulsification surgery of left eye for posterior sub-capsular cataract under peribulbar anesthesia developed central retinal artery occlusion in the immediate post-operative period. The surgery was uneventful. Conclusion: Central retinal artery occlusion is a rare but dreadful complication seen after uneventful phacoemulsification and the cause is mainly due to anesthesia related. Nepal J Ophthalmol 2013; 5(10): 281-283 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v5i2.8746
Studying and Doing Energy Transition
Authors: Breslau Daniel
Published: September 2013

Hess, David J. 2012. Good Green Jobs in a Global Economy: Making and Keeping New Industries in the United States. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.

Verbong, Geert, and Derk Loorbach, eds. 2012. Governing the Energy Transition: Reality, Illusion or Necessity? New York: Routledge.
Comparative Performance of In-House and Commercially Available ELISA Kits for the Detection of Antibody Against Newcastle Disease Virus Vaccine
Authors: Chowdhury MMI , Islam MT , Aktar A , Bhuiyan MKJ , Kamal MM , Haque MA , Ara MJ , Rahman MM , Islam MA
Published: September 2013

An In-house Indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for the detection of serum antibody titre against Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and was compared its sensitivity and specificity with the commercially available NDV antibody detection ELISA kit (Biocheck®, USA). The reference NDV was purified by centrifugation, ultracentrifugation and by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation. This purified NDV was used for coating of 96-well flat bottomed microtitre plate and to raise hyperimmune sera (known) in Fayoumi chickens. In the standardization test, the antigen dilution of 10-6 and the serum dilution of 10-3 were considered to be optimum for the present ELISA system. The correlation regression analysis was performed to construct a standard curve equation where a good positive correlation was observed (r = 0.912, n = 8, P<0.01). The equation was used to convert corrected absorbance readings of the single working dilution (1 : 1000) directly into predicted ELISA antibody activity titres. In the sensitivity and specificity test, the serum dilution of 10-5 appeared to be the highest dilution which had the maximum lowest capacity to bind with the coated antigen of the present ELISA kit and only anti-NDV serum was found to bind with the coated antigen instead of serum of IBDV in the plate which revealed the high specificity of the developed In-house Indirect ELISA kit. In a comparative study with the 80 chicken sera samples, a significant positive correlation (r = 0.901, n = 80, P<0.01) was found between In-house Indirect ELISA and commercial ELISA kit (Biocheck®, USA).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v22i1-2.16467 Progress. Agric. 22(1 & 2): 55 - 64, 2011
Effect of Storage Time on Fish Feed Stored at Room Temperature and Low Temperature
Authors: Hossen MN , Das M , Sumi KR , Hasan MT
Published: September 2013

An experiment was conducted to determine the changes of nutritive value of different commercial fish feeds stored at room temperature (25-30°C) and low temperature (5-8°C) for a period of two months by taking biweekly sample. Three most popular fish feeds named Mega fish feed, Quality fish feed and Saudi Bangla fish feed used in the Mymensingh region were selected for the purpose. Throughout the study, physical characteristics and proximate composition of three commercial fish feeds were analyzed. There were no change in color, appearance of moderately bad odour, a little bit of soft texture and broken pellets were found in later stages of the experiment but the overall quality was still acceptable. Along with physical characteristics, changes were occurred in case of proximate composition. In Mega, Quality and Saudi Bangla fish feed, crude protein content was reduced in both the storage conditions. Lipid content also exhibited similar reduction due to storage at both the conditions. Whereas moisture content increased a little bit in the case of room temperature storage and decreased when stored in low temperature (5-8°C). No marked changes had been occurred in other proximate composition like ash, and crude fibre. Declining rate of the quality of fish feeds was higher at room temperature (25-30°C) than low temperature (5-8°C) but the overall quality remained acceptable upto two months storage at both the conditions. It is suggested to use the feed within two months after manufacture. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v22i1-2.16473 Progress. Agric. 22(1 & 2): 115-122, 2011
Land Tenure System and Agricultural Productivity in a Selected Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Nasrin Mahmuda , Uddin M Taj
Published: September 2013

The relative efficiency of farming under tenancy systems in Bangladesh was measured in this study. Thirty cash tenants and 30 share tenants were randomly selected for data collection through field survey method from Narayanpur and Bhabokhali villages under Sadar upazila of Mymensingh district. The functional analysis of the study was based on Boro rice. The land tenancy situation in rural Bangladesh was explored in this study with a reasonable high incidence of owners who cultivate their own land in comparison to owner-cum-tenants and tenants. A number of tenurial arrangements including sharing agreements were also revealed in the study villages. Share tenant farmers earned significantly lower net return (Tk. 19,252.18) than the cash tenant farmers (Tk. 22,815.89) from Boro rice production. However, Boro rice production was profitable from the viewpoint of both tenant operators. Finally, the study tested and confirmed that all the explanatory variables (key production inputs) included in the Cobb- Douglas revenue type production function model were important for explaining the variations in gross returns under both tenancy arrangements. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v22i1-2.16479 Progress. Agric. 22(1 & 2): 181-192, 2011
Forecasting Coarse Rice Prices in Bangladesh
Authors: Hassan MF , Islam MA , Imam MF , Sayem SM
Published: September 2013

Bangladesh being a developing country, always tries to control the market prices of coarse rice for stable political and social condition. The main aim of this paper is to find out appropriate deterministic time series model using the latest selection criteria that could best describe the coarse rice price pattern in Bangladesh during the time period July 1975 to December 2011. A total of 438 secondary data on monthly wholesale prices of coarse rice from July 1975 to December 2011 have been used for time series analysis. In this study growth models of different types are fitted using the software package SPSS 20 for the selected time series. The study reveals that cubic model is the best fitted model for wholesale price of coarse rice on the basis of model selection criterion (R2, R2 , RMSE, AIC, BIC, MAE and MAPE). Cubic growth rates varied from 0.68% to 4.03%. After choosing the best growth model by the model selection criteria the coarse rice prices are forecasted for the time period January 2012 to December 2013. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v22i1-2.16480 Progress. Agric. 22(1 & 2): 193-201, 2011
Informativity and analogy in English compound stress
Authors: Bell Melanie J. , Plag Ingo
Published: September 2013

It has long been claimed (e.g. Sweet 1892 , Bolinger 1972 , Ladd 1984 ) that informativity has an influence on the leftward or rightward stress assigned to noun-noun combinations in English, but the few available empirical studies of this hypothesis have produced conflicting results ( Plag & Kunter 2010 , Bell 2013 , Bell & Plag 2012 ). In this paper, using the same measures as Bell & Plag (2012) but with a different set of data, we provide further evidence that more informative constituents in the right-hand position tend to be stressed. This result fits with the general propensity of speakers to accentuate important information (e.g. Bolinger 1972 ). The results also raise the question of the relationship between informativity and constituent identity, which is the strongest known predictor of compound stress pattern (e.g. Plag 2010 , Arndt-Lappe 2011 ). An exploration of this problem shows that the two factors are interrelated; we argue that this relationship is best conceptualized as resulting from an underlying effect of informativity on other predictors of prominence, including constituent identity.
Communicating Culture in Practice
Authors: Hyler Samantha
Published: September 2013

No abstract available.
From Creep to Co-op: Research(er) Paying the Cost of Discplacement?
Authors: Forsemalm Joakim
Published: September 2013

As discussed by planning researchers Jalakas & Larsson (2008), in Sweden, societal issues such as social sustainability, urban life and gender fails to travel from comprehensive documents in the urban planning system to the legislative ones (i.e. the “detailed development plans”). This might, as this essay argues, have to do with the absence of “cultural brokers”, i.e a kind of translator of the narratives told in a particular society. Can researchers act as such translators – increasing the precence of cultural and everyday-life experiences in legislative planning documents? This essay discusses problems and possibilities with an ethnography engageing with/in society.
Investigation of a Novel 24-Slot/14-Pole Six-Phase Fault-Tolerant Modular Permanent-Magnet In-Wheel Motor for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zheng Ping , Wu Fan , Lei Yu , Sui Yi , Yu Bin
Published: September 2013

In this paper, a six-phase fault-tolerant modular permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) with a novel 24-slot/14-pole combination is proposed as a high-performance actuator for wheel-driving electric vehicle (EV) applications. Feasible slot/pole combinations of the fractional-slot concentrated winding six-phase PMSM are elicited and analyzed for scheme selection. The novel 24-slot/14-pole combination is derived from the analysis and suppression of the magnetomotive force (MMF) harmonics. By making use of alternate-teeth-wound concentrated winding configuration, two adjacent coils per phase and unequal teeth widths, the phase windings of the proposed machine is magnetically, thermally isolated, which offers potentials of modular design and fault tolerant capability. Taking advantage of the leakage component of winding inductance, 1.0 per unit short-circuit current is achieved endowing the machine with short-circuit proof capability. Optimal design of essential parameters aiming at low eddy current losses, high winding factor and short-circuit-proof ability are presented to pave the way for a high-quality system implementation.
Monogenic Diabetes: A Diagnostic Algorithm for Clinicians
Authors: Carroll Richard , Murphy Rinki
Published: September 2013

Monogenic forms of beta cell diabetes account for approximately 1%–2% of all cases of diabetes, yet remain underdiagnosed. Overlapping clinical features with common forms of diabetes, make diagnosis challenging. A genetic diagnosis of monogenic diabetes in many cases alters therapy, affects prognosis, enables genetic counseling, and has implications for cascade screening of extended family members. We describe those types of monogenic beta cell diabetes which are recognisable by distinct clinical features and have implications for altered management; the cost effectiveness of making a genetic diagnosis in this setting; the use of complementary diagnostic tests to increase the yield among the vast majority of patients who will have commoner types of diabetes which are summarised in a clinical algorithm; and the vital role of cascade genetic testing to enhance case finding.
Molecular Research in Penile Cancer—Lessons Learned from the Past and Bright Horizons of the Future?
Authors: Protzel Chris , Spiess Philippe
Published: September 2013

Penile cancer is a rare tumor. There is a limited understanding of the biological mediators of prognostic and therapeutic importance in penile cancer. However, there exists some fundamental understanding of the major pathways involved in the development of penile pre-neoplastic lesions and neoplasms. The aim of the present review is to highlight our current state of molecular knowledge in penile cancer to foster the necessary tools for researchers to pave major advancements in our current treatment paradigms and cancer specific outcomes.
Synthesis and Activity of Novel Acylthiourea with Hydantoin
Authors: Han Jintao , Dong Hongbo , Xu Zhihong , Wang Jinmin , Wang Mingan
Published: September 2013

The 41 novel acylthiourea derivatives with hydantoin were synthesized in moderate to excellent yields by using 5-(4-aminophenyl)- and 5-(4-aminobenzyl)-hydantoin or 5-(4-aminobenzyl)-thiohydantoin as raw materials and characterized by IR, 1H NMR spectra and elementary analysis. The preliminary bioassay showed that these compounds exhibit certain selectively herbicidal activities with the 91%, 94% and 87% inhibition rates of 7l, 8o and 8p against B. campestris, 100%, 100% and 95% efficacy against B. campestris in a greenhouse test, respectively. 7a, 7b, 7c and 7d exhibited 74%, 79%, 79% and 71% inhibition rates against F. oxysporum, respectively.
Hygienic Behavior of Africanized Honey Bees Apis mellifera Directed towards Brood in Old and New Combs during Diurnal and Nocturnal Periods
Authors: Pereira Rogério , Morais Michelle , Francoy Tiago , Gonçalves Lionel
Published: September 2013

Hygienic behavior in honey bees, Apis mellifera, is measured by determining the rate at which the bees uncap and remove dead sealed brood. We analyzed individual behavior of house-cleaning Africanized honey bees in order to focus on some poorly understood aspects of hygienic behavior. Two observation hives, each with approximately 3,000 individually marked bees, were used in this study. The efficiency of hygienic behavior was evaluated in hygienic and non-hygienic strains of bees using two types of combs (new and old), as well as at different periods of the day (night and day). We also recorded the age of workers that performed this task of removing dead brood. In both strains, the workers that performed tasks related to hygienic behavior were within the same age cohort; we found no influence of age on the amount of time dedicated to the task, independent of the type of comb or period of the day. The total time from perforation of the cell capping until the dead brood had been completely removed, and was significantly shorter during daytime than at night. Hygienic behavior directed towards dead brood in new combs was also significantly more efficient (faster) than for brood in old combs. The type of comb had significantly more effect than did the time of day. We conclude that the type of comb and time of day should be taken into consideration when evaluating hygienic behavior in honey bees.
Measuring Dynamic and Kinetic Information in the Previously Inaccessible Supra-tc Window of Nanoseconds to Microseconds by Solution NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ban David , Sabo T. , Griesinger Christian , Lee Donghan
Published: September 2013

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful tool that has enabled experimentalists to characterize molecular dynamics and kinetics spanning a wide range of time-scales from picoseconds to days. This review focuses on addressing the previously inaccessible supra-τc window (defined as τc < supra-τc < 40 μs; in which τc is the overall tumbling time of a molecule) from the perspective of local inter-nuclear vector dynamics extracted from residual dipolar couplings (RDCs) and from the perspective of conformational exchange captured by relaxation dispersion measurements (RD). The goal of the first section is to present a detailed analysis of how to extract protein dynamics encoded in RDCs and how to relate this information to protein functionality within the previously inaccessible supra-τc window. In the second section, the current state of the art for RD is analyzed, as well as the considerable progress toward pushing the sensitivity of RD further into the supra-τc scale by up to a factor of two (motion up to 25 ms). From the data obtained with these techniques and methodology, the importance of the supra-τ c scale for protein function and molecular recognition is becoming increasingly clearer as the connection between motion on the supra-τc scale and protein functionality from the experimental side is further strengthened with results from molecular dynamics simulations.
An Efficient Solvent-Free Synthesis of 2-Hydroxy-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2H-chromenes Using Silica-Immobilized L-Proline
Authors: Xu Cuilian , Yang Guoyu , Wang Caixia , Fan Sufang , Xie Lixia , Gao Ya
Published: September 2013

An efficient synthesis of 2-hydroxy-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2H-chromene-3-carboxylates was carried out under solvent-free conditions in an oven or microwave oven via the Knoevenagel condensation of salicylaldehydes with ethyl trifluoroacetoacetate followed by intramolecular cyclization in the presence of silica-immobilized L-proline. The structures of the title compounds were characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, HRMS and X-ray single crystal diffraction. The improved method described herein is economical, easily-operated and environmentally friendly. Furthermore, the catalyst can be recovered conveniently and reused without obvious loss of activity.
An Instrument to Measure Adherence to Weight Loss Programs: The Compliance Praxis Survey-Diet (COMPASS-Diet)
Authors: Janda Monika , Zeidler Doris , Böhm Gabriela , Schoberberger Rudolf
Published: September 2013

Adherence to behavioral weight loss strategies is important for weight loss success. We aimed to examine the reliability and validity of a newly developed compliance praxis-diet (COMPASS-diet) survey with participants in a 10-week dietary intervention program. During the third of five sessions, participants of the “slim-without-diet” weight loss program (n = 253) completed the COMPASS-diet survey and provided data on demographic and clinical characteristics, and general self-efficacy. Group facilitators completed the COMPASS-diet-other scale estimating participants’ likely adherence from their perspective. We calculated internal consistency, convergent validity, and predictive value for objectively measured weight loss. Mean COMPASS-diet-self score was 82.4 (SD 14.2) and COMPASS-diet-other score 80.9 (SD 13.6) (possible range 12–108), with lowest scores in the normative behavior subscale. Cronbach alpha scores of the COMPASS-diet-self and -other scale were good (0.82 and 0.78, respectively). COMPASS-diet-self scores (r = 0.31) correlated more highly with general self-efficacy compared to COMPASS-diet-other scores (r = 0.04) providing evidence for validity. In multivariable analysis adjusted for age and gender, both the COMPASS-diet-self (F = 10.8, p < 0.001, r2 = 0.23) and other (F = 5.5, p < 0.001, r2 = 0.19) scales were significantly associated with weight loss achieved at program conclusion. COMPASS-diet surveys will allow group facilitators or trainers to identify patients who need additional support for optimal weight loss.