bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Tubeless Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy with Conventional Technique in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Gupta Dipesh Kumar , Gnyawali Arun , Jaiswal Deepak
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) is a safe and efficient method for management of nephrolithiasis. Post procedure nephrostomy tube drainage is considered as the standard practice. In recent years, tubeless mPCNL with the use of double J (DJ) stent alone has replaced the placement of the nephrostomy tube.

Aims: This study intends to evaluate the safety and efficacy of tubeless Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy.

Methods: A total of 80 patients with Nephrolithiasis, admitted to Urology Unit of Nepalgunj Medical College, between September 2018 and September 2019 were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups: Tubeless group where tube was omitted and Standard Group where it was placed. The two groups were compared with respect to hemoglobin drop and blood transfusion requirement, hospital stay and analgesic requirement in the post-operative period.

Results: Mean age of the patients was 34.30 ± 13.19 years. Mean stone size was 19.03 mm. The mean change in hemoglobin after standard mPCNL was 1.68 gm/dl and that in the tubeless group was 1.11 (p=0.018). The tubeless group had a significantly (p=0.001) shorter hospital stay (3.05 ± 1.23 days) compared to standard group (3.85 ± 0.86). The postoperative pain as assessed by visual analogue scale, was more in the standard group necessitating additional analgesia. It was significantly higher in the standard group at 12, 24, 48 hours, as compared to the tubeless group.

Conclusion:  Placement of nephrostomy tube can be omitted as a routine practice as Tubeless mini PCNL has an added advantage of significantly reduced postoperative pain, less analgesic requirement, shorter hospital stay, less postoperative blood loss.
Role of Computed Tomography in Blunt Abdominal Trauma
Authors: Khadka Digbijay Bikram , Sharma Anup , Bhatta Ashish , Maharjan Prabir , Sharma Sandesh
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Blunt abdominal trauma is one of the commonly encountered surgical emergencies. The diagnostic modality that helps in optimum management of these patients includes chest and abdominal x-rays, Focused Assessment Sonography for Trauma scan and Computed Tomography. In selected hemodynamically stable patients who are candidates for non-operative management, Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography is not considered essential and hence avoiding its own radiation hazards and decreasing extra financial burden to the patients.

Aims: To evaluate whether Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography is necessary or not in case of blunt trauma abdomen.

Methods: This is a hospital based prospective study done in the department of surgery at Nepalgunj Medical College, Kohalpur conducted from October 2020 to March 2021. The patients with blunt abdominal trauma who were hemodynamically stable at the time of presentation and those who became stable after resuscitation were included. These patient’s detailed history was taken, clinical examination done. Focused Assessment Sonography for Trauma scan was done at the time of presentation along with chest x-ray and other necessary blood investigation. Data were analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 and p-value <0.05 was taken as significant.

Results: Out of total 53 patients, age group between 11-20 and 21-30 years comprising of 13 patients with male: female ratio of 1.94:1 were affected more. Fall injury, being the most common mode, comprised 20 patients. The commonest organ involved was spleen seen in 17 patients (32.1%), liver in 16 patients (30.2%). In 44 (83.0%) patients, Computed Tomography scan was done only in nine patients who were also managed conservatively, except one who underwent laparoscopic evacuation of collected blood. Seventeen (32.1%) patients underwent repeat ultrasonography without any new findings.

Conclusion: Patients with blunt abdominal trauma with stable hemodynamics can be managed conservatively with limited use of Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography scan.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown: Psychological Distress Impact amongst PCL Nursing Students of Nepalgunj Nursing Campus, Kohalpur, Banke, Nepal
Authors: Dhakal Sanjeeva , Kharel Prabha
Published: January 2022

Introduction:  The uncontrolled spread of COVID-19 worldwide has confined millions of people to their homes. In addition to being a public physical health emergency, COVID-19 (Corona Virus Disease 2019) has significantly resulted in a large number of psychological distress and impacts. The career oriented professional students are away from their academic environment.

Aims: This study aims to assess the psychological distress impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among the Proficiency Certificate Level Nursing of  Nepalgunj Nursing Campus, Kohalpur, Banke, Nepal.

Methods: The online survey with a link directed to students of Proficiency Certificate Level (PCL) Nursing of Nepalgunj Nursing Campus, Kohalpur, Banke, Nepal  conducted during lockdown (July 16th –July 21st 2020) which was open for 6 days. Sociodemographic characteristics are the independent variables. Psychological distress was constructed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) Scale as a dependent variables. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel.

Results: The evidence of the survey showed that in total 80.2, % (severely distressed - 30.7%, moderately distressed -29.7%, mildly distressed- 19.8%) of the Proficiency Certificate Level Nursing students of Nepalgunj Nursing Campus, were having psychological distress during COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown assessed by using K10 scale.

Conclusion: The present study showed that Proficiency Certificate Level Nursing students were moderately and severely distressed during lockdown of Covid-19 pandemic.
Clinical and Echocardiographic Assessment of Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Aryal Madhu
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Cardiomyopathy is the disorder of the heart muscles which can be dilated, hypertrophic or restrictive type. Dilated cardiomyopathy is caused by genetic and non-genetic causes but many of the causes are still not known. Echocardiography is an important imaging technique to diagnose and manage dilated cardiomyopathy.

Aims: This study aims to assess the clinical and echocardiographic findings among patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional, observational study conducted in Nepalgunj Medical College from January 2021 to June 2021. A total of 61 patients with dilated Cardiomyopathy were enrolled after obtaining written informed consent. Clinical examination and echocardiographic findings were recorded and data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences.

Results: The participants included 31 men and 30 women with dilated cardiomyopathy. The mean age of the participants was 58.49 + 15.46 years. The most common complaint was shortness of breath 84.5% and the most common clinical presentation was bilateral basal crepitation 98.4%. The patients mostly had diastolic left ventricle internal diameter of 5.5-6 cm and ejection fraction of 21-30%. Mitral regurgitation was observed among most 58(95.1%) of the patients.

Conclusion: This study concludes that shortness of breath and bilateral basal crepitation are the most common presentation. Left ventricle dilation, reduced ejection fraction and mitral regurgitation are seen among majority of the patients.
Assessment of Physical Fitness in Medical Students
Authors: Chaudhary Sailesh , Khadka Rita , Pandey Karishma Rajbhandari , Paudel Bishnu Hari , Shah Gaurav Jung , Chaudhary Hiramani Prasad
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Physical activity promotes cerebral blood flow during cognitive tasks and possibly enhances performance. It is relevant to find relationship between post exercise recovery heart rate (RHR) and resting pulse rate in medical students.

Aims: To assess physical fitness in medical students.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 57 consenting healthy medical students, age 1730 years, underwent 3-Minutes Step Test to assess their physical fitness. Students were divided into four fitness groups based on RHR; good (n=9, RHR=50-84 bpm), satisfactory (n=17, RHR=88-100 bpm), poor (n=12, RHR=102-107 bpm), and very poor (n= 19, RHR=111-157 bpm) groups. The groups were compared using one-way ANOVA. A p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Results showed that there were few numbers of students who fall in good fitness group (n= 9, Resting pulse rate mean 72.00 ± 9.29) in comparison to satisfactory fitness group (n= 17, Resting pulse rate mean (68.35 ± 5.95), poor fitness group (n= 12, Resting pulse rate mean 75.67 ± 6.88) and very poor fitness group (n=19, Resting pulse rate mean 78.89 ± 7.67). The level of significance between satisfactory fitness group and very poor fitness group, p <0.05 was statistically significant.

Conclusion: Most of the medical students fall under very poor fitness group. Satisfactory fitness group have less resting pulse rate in compare to very poor fitness group of medical students.
Intrauterine Foetal Death: A Hospital Based Study
Authors: Jahan Kamar , Mahaseth Binod Kumar
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Foetal death at any stage of pregnancy is not just a tragic event but also a more traumatic for the mental well-being of a mother. It is one of the most wrenching events in the field of obstetrics.

Aims: The study was done to determine the probable risk factors of intrauterine foetal death and role of antenatal care in its prevention.

Methods: The study was conducted  in Obstetrics and Gynecology department at Nepalgunj Medical college from July 2018 to July 2020 .Inclusion criteria were  intrauterine fetal death  of >28 weeks of gestation and baby weighing  1000 grams or more . An exclusion criterion was molar pregnancy.

Results: There were 115(3.52%) intrauterine fetal death during the study period, making it 35 per 1000 cases. In 17(14.78%) the cause of intrauterine fetal death was not known. The other common associated risk factors were prematurity in 14(12.17%) and hypertension in 13(11.30%). Similarly anemia and antepartum hemorrhage were seen in 13(11.30%) each. 11(9.56%) patients had oligohydramnios. Mal presentation was found in 8(6.95%) patients while polyhydromnios in 6(5.21%).The commonest age range in whom intrauterine fetal death was seen was 20-30 (73.90%). 28 (24.34%) patients were at preterm pregnancy ranging between 28-30 weeks whereas 17(14.78) intrauterine fetal death occured at  32-34 weeks. 77 foetuses were preterm and their birth weight was between 1 - 1.5 kg  with the mean wt of  1175.73 gms.

Conclusion: Intrauterine fetal death is still common inspite of the improving awareness in importance of regular antenatal care. In majority, the cause of intrauterine fetal death is still unknown. However, where the cause was known prematurity was the commonest.
Risk Factors and Short Term Morbidities Associated With Term-Small for Gestational Age Babies Delivered at Nepalgunj Medical College
Authors: Kanodia Piush , Verma Arun Kumar , Adhikari Sumit
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Small for gestational age (SGA) refers to birth weight of neonates less than 10th percentile for gestational age or 2nd standard deviation below the population norms on the growth charts.

Aims: To identify common risk factors and common morbidities for small for gestational age babies.

Methods: This is a cross sectional descriptive study and it has been conducted at Department of pediatrics, Nepalgunj Medical college which is a tertiary level teaching hospital located in western part of Nepal. All term small for gestational age neonates born during study period from January 2020 to December 2020 were included. Detailed baseline demographic and clinical profile has been collected and recorded in the predesigned Proforma.

Results: The most common risk factors associated with small for gestational age babies in our study were maternal hypertension (14.6%) , maternal GDM(9.6%), Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in 1st or 2nd trimester of pregnancy, maternal anemia, smoking, alcohol consumption, hypothyroidism and congenital heart disease. The most common short term complications associated with Small for gestational age babies were hypoglycemia and Meconium aspiration syndrome.

Conclusion: The most common risk factors associated with Small for gestational age  babies in our study were maternal hypertension, maternal Gestational diabetes Mellitus (GDM), Urinary Tract Infection  in 1st or 2nd trimester of pregnancy, maternal anemia, smoking, alcohol consumption, hypothyroidism and congenital heart disease. The most common short term complications associated with Small for gestational age  babies were hypoglycemia and Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS).
Comparison of Treatment Response before and after Antiobsessivae Therapy among Psychiatric Patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Belbase Mohan , Adhikari Jyoti
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Obsessive compulsive disorder is a common, chronic and disabling disorder marked by obsessions and/or compulsions. This study tries to find the demographic profiles, severity and response of antiobsessive drugs in young and adult patients with obsessive compulsive disorder.

Aims: To study the socio-demographic profile, severity and treatment response to commonly used antiobsessive medications in male and female, and young and adults.

Methods: This is a hospital based experimental study done in patients attending to psychiatry out-patient department over one year from February 2020 to January 2021.  Diagnosis of obsessive compulsive disorder was made based on International Classification of Disease- 10 criteria for research. Yale-Brown obsessive compulsive scale check list (adult and children) was applied in those patients and recorded accordingly on baseline (week 0) and patients were treated with specific serotonin reuptake inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants in therapeutic doses for 6 weeks. On follow up at week 6, they were again reassessed and the scores were recorded and analyzed.

Results: Among the total study subject (N-52), 26(50 %) were male and 26(50 %) were females. Patients in age bracket 20-29 is the most common age group representing 18(34.6 %). Mean age of patients is 30.36±11.93 years (28.65±9.80 in male and 32.04±13.73 in female). Severe form of obsessive compulsive disorder was the most common type that represent 33(63.5%) followed by moderate 16(30.8%) and extreme 3(5.7%). There is a difference of treatment response of antiobsessive therapy in male and female with statistical significance (p= 0.039).

Conclusion: This study shows that obsessive compulsive disorder is most commonly found in 20-29 age group and the severe type is the most common. There is a significant difference in treatment response of antiobsessive therapy in male and female.
What are possible Sources of Common and Persistent Student Errors in Algebra and Calculus?
Authors: Nepal Kedar , Pokharel Krishna , Basyal Deepak , Banjade Debendra , Lamichhane Manoj
Published: January 2022

Research shows that college students make numerous algebra and other prerequisite content-related errors in Calculus courses. Most of these errors are common, persistent, and often observed in simple mathematical tasks. This qualitative study is an attempt to identify the potential sources of such errors. Based on our observations of student errors, we wrote a Precalculus and a Calculus test and administered them in twelve sections of four different undergraduate mathematics courses for which either Precalculus, Calculus I or both were a prerequisite. The tests were announced on the first day of the class and administered the following week. All the questions on the test were True or False questions. Based on our experience as college mathematics instructors, we assumed that many students would perceive the True answers as False and the False as True. Therefore, if students’ selected a given answer, mathematical statement, process or solution as True, they were asked to justify why that was not False and vice-versa. They were instructed to provide logical explanations and avoid plugging in numbers to check for correctness. Analysis of data using grounded theory approach resulted in the following three possible external sources of common and persistent student errors: a) Difficulty with symbols and/or lack of attendance to the meaning of those symbols, b) Instructional practices, and c) Lack of knowledge. We will provide examples to illustrate how such errors could have originated from these sources.
Images of Undergraduate Mathematics Curriculum: A Critical Self-Reflection
Authors: Luitel Laxman , Pant Binod Prasad
Published: January 2022

Higher education practices in Nepal have been playing an important role to train and develop pre-service school teachers. This paper critically reflects on the curricular and pedagogical practices of mathematics education based on the first author's experiences of learning at the undergraduate level from the perspective of mathematics curriculum images and pedagogical implications. Subscribing to autoethnography as a research methodology, we analysed the first author's experiences as an undergraduate student in one of the public campuses in Nepal which point to two major images of mathematics curriculum: curriculum as a prescription and curriculum as a cultural reproduction. Considering Habermasian Knowledge Constitutive Interest as a theoretical referent, the paper concludes that the transformation of curricular and pedagogical practices in teacher education is essential. The transformative practice in teacher education is insightful to improve pre-service and in-service school teachers' pedagogical and content knowledge in Nepal.
Predicting Logarithm of Real Numbers to any Real Number Base
Authors: Asfaque Mohammad , Kafle Jeevan
Published: January 2022

This paper aims to propose an algorithm that can predict the values of logarithmic function for any domain and for any bases with minimum possible error using basic mathematical operations. It talks about a univariate quadratic function that overlaps with the graph of the common logarithmic function to some extent, and using this resemblance to fullest advantage. It proposes a formula and certain algorithms based on the same formula.
Pediatric Otological Disorders: An In-Hospital Study
Authors: Gupta Dipak Kumar , Shah Poonam Kumari
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Social factors influencing the likelihood of developing pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) disorders include socioeconomic status, the type of family, overcrowding, and access to health care, which are prevalent in developing countries like Nepal. Nepalese populations are not well documented with regards to pediatric ENT disorders.
Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of ENT disorders in pediatric patients attending hospitals.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study that was conducted at Janaki Medical College, Janakpur between January and September of 2021. Consecutive children from Janaki Medical College between the ages of 6 months and 18 years with otological complaints participated in the study. Afterward, the diagnosis was derived from patients’ OPD cards or by contacting them by phone.
Results: The mean ages of male and female participants were 3.2± 2.7 years old and 4.9 ± 2.6 years respectively. Out of the study participants who complained about otological complaints, the majority (37.45%) had ear wax on their ears, followed by foreign bodies (21.30%) and acute otitis externa (9.2%). Among foreign bodies encountered, rubber (35.48%) was most common, followed by seed (24.19%).
Conclusions: Pediatric ear diseases are very common. In the majority of cases, ear wax and foreign bodies were found. By raising awareness about ear hygiene and disease, we can reduce the problems associated with them.
Keywords: Ear, nose, and throat; otology; pediatric; prevalence.
Outcome of Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy as Monotherapy in Upper Urinary Tract Lithiasis
Authors: Thakur Dipak Kumar
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Due to its non-invasive nature, extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the preferred treatment modality for uncomplicated renal and ureteral stone < 20 mm in diameter. The success rate of it ranges from 46% to 91% depending on various factors.
Objective: To assess the outcome of ESWL as monotherapy in uncomplicated solitary renal and upper ureteric calculus ranging from 10mm to 20mm.
Methods: In this retrospective study, the records of 34 patients who underwent Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy ESWL inBirat Medical College – Teaching Hospital over a period of one and a half years were reviewed to assess the outcome in terms of stone free rate and complication rate.
Results: Mean age of the patients was 30.57±8.44 years and mean calculus size was 14.47±2.68 mm (range 10-20mm). The male and female ratio was 2:1. The success rate was higher for pelvic (83.33%) and upper calyceal (75%) and upper ureteric calculi (75%) compared to other calyces. Clinically significant residual fragment (CSRF) was the most common problem after ESWL (23.33%) at three months after the procedure.
Conclusions: The outcome of ESWL as monotherapy for upper urinary tract calculi is acceptable in selected cases three months after the procedure.
Keywords: Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy; outcome; upper urinary tract calculi.
Morphological Variations of the Lungs: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Gautam Ajeevan , Chaulagain Rajib , Dhungel Deepesh
Published: January 2022

The lungs are the organs of respiration which are situated on either side of the heart and other mediastinal contents in its pleural cavity. A fresh lung is spongy, can float in water and crepitates when handled. Lungs are important with respect to its blood circulation. The lungs are divided by fissures into lobes which facilitate movements of lobes in relation to one another. The hilum of each lung is its gateway. In the present study, we aim to assess the morphological variations of human cadaveric lungs at Chitwan Medical College (CMC). An observational study was conducted at dissection hall of anatomy department at Chitwan Medical College from September 2019 to October 2020 after taking ethical approval form Institutional Review Committee of CMC. All the intact 70 lungs present in the department were studied. Photographs of the intact lungs were taken from different surface. The lungs were porus, highly elastic and spongy in texture. On keeping lungs to water tank it got floated. We found 34(80.96%) of the studied specimen of right side had horizontal fissure present in it. The remaining 8 (19.04%) specimens did not have horizontal fissures, while 3 (5.88%) specimens had incomplete fissures. The oblique fissure was not present in 2 (2.38%) of the study specimens. The left side of the study specimen has a variance of 1(4.16%). When the hilum right lung was examined, 40 (95.23%) of the structure had the usual organization pattern. In the left lung, the usual pattern of organization was 21(75%). The differences are thought to be present in the lung’s fissure and hilum. The current study’s findings are therapeutically important. The findings could prove beneficial to cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons.
Correlation of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) with Thyroid Profile and Endometrial Biopsy
Authors: Koirala Shraddha , Pande Kricha , Shrestha Sama
Published: January 2022

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is defined as any change in the frequency of menstruation, duration of flow or amount of loss. Menstrual disturbances and different endometrial pattern may accompany and precede thyroid dysfunction. The objective of the study was to correlate thyroid profile with endometrial biopsy in cases of AUB. This study was conducted on 74 patients who presented with AUB, had undergone TFT and endometrial biopsy/hysterectomy. Among 74 patients, thyroid disorders were identified in 26 patients. Maximum number of patients with AUB belonged to the category of hypothyroidism (27%) and 8.1% of cases had hyperthyroidism. In the present study 29 (39.1%) had proliferative endometrium, followed by secretory pattern in 21 (28.4%) patients. Hormone induced changes was seen in 3 (4.1%) patients. Disordered proliferative endometrium and endometrial hyperplasia was observed in 6 patients (8.1%) each. Malignant lesion was not common and it comprised of only 1.4% cases. AUB is frequently seen in patients with thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid function test is a cost effective, easily available test and can detect a possibly curable cause of AUB and avoid unnecessary intervention like hormonal treatment and hysterectomy. AUB due to endometrial cause is an age related pathology. Histopathological examination of endometrial biopsy is a major diagnostic tool in evaluation of AUB. It helps the physician to plan therapy for successful management of AUB.
Pattern of Alcohol Use and its Effects in Relation to the Age of Initiation of Alcohol Use among the Residents of Jhaukhel Area of Bhaktapur District
Authors: Gurung Soman , Gupta Ravi Kant , Silvanus Vinutha
Published: January 2022

Over the past few decades, alcohol consumption has increased in quantity and frequency. Several studies have suggested that people who start drinking at younger age have an increased risk of alcohol use disorder. This study was carried out to assess the pattern of alcohol consumption in relation to the age of initiation of alcohol use among the residents of Jhaukhel area of Bhaktapur district. A cross sectional descriptive survey was conducted in Jhaukhel area of Bhaktapur district among the permanent residents aged 15 years and above through a purposive sampling technique using a pre tested self-constructed proforma. Assessment of alcohol use, harmful/ hazardous drinking and alcohol dependence was done using an AUDIT questionnaire as a tool. Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were applied and ‘p’ value was calculated to see the association between age of onset of alcohol use and the alcohol use pattern and effects. The level of significance was set at 5%, and ‘p’ value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 190 respondents were interviewed. Mean age of the respondents was 41.25 ± 16.4 years while mean age of initiation of alcohol consumption was 20 ± 4.3 years and 31 (30.4 %) of drinkers initiated alcohol consumption before legal drinking age (18 years). This was more among males (36.5%) than females (14.3%), (p-value: 0.03, OR: 3.4, 95%CI: 1-11) Initiating alcohol consumption early in life before 18 years was strongly associated with binge drinking pattern (P value: <0.001, OR: 9.5, 95%CI: 2.7-33.3). Those who initiate drinking before 18 years were more likely to suffer from alcohol related medical problems compared to those who initiated drinking after 18 years (OR: 6.63, 95% CI: 2.3-19.3, P value: 0.001). Parental consumption of alcohol was found to be associated with the early initiation of alcohol use (OR: 2.7, 95%CI: 1.01-6.96, P value: 0.03). Early initiation of alcohol consumption before legal drinking age was not only a predictor for binge drinking and alcohol dependence, but also a risk factor for alcohol related medical problem, accidents and self-inflicted injuries. Hence this is a serious issue which needs to be addressed at the individual, family as well as community level.
Visual Reaction Time: How it Relates to Body Mass Index, Dominant and Non-dominant Hand in Healthy Young Females
Authors: Jha Reena Kumari , Thapa Samjhana , Kasti Roshan , Singh Sumi
Published: January 2022

Reaction time is an indirect index of the processing speed of the central nervous system. It is affected by several factors including dominant and non-dominant hands and obesity. Obesity can be measured by body mass index. Thus, the aim of this study was to find out the relationship between body mass index, dominant and non-dominant hand with visual reaction time in healthy young females. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, among 89 females. The height and weight were recorded, and the body mass index was calculated. The subjects were divided into four groups, underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese according to WHO criteria. Visual reaction time was measured using the ruler drop method in milliseconds. The data were analyzed by using the paired t-test and one-way ANOVA using the IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22. Out of 89 participants, 26 (29.21%) were underweight, 47 (52.80%) had normal weight, 12 (13.48%) and four (4.49%) were overweight and obese with mean reaction time in the dominant hand and non-dominant hand were (176.75±16.68 vs. 186.58±16.21), (175.12±15.03 vs. 185.43±15.64), (188.74±16.07 vs. 190.70±17.88), and (200.7±9.77 vs. 210.50±9.50) respectively. All participants were right-handers. In right-handers, the right hand reacted faster than the left hand. Reaction time was prolonged in underweight, overweight,and obese; when compared with normal weight individuals. Our study showed that the reaction time of people appears to be influenced by body mass index, dominant, and non-dominant hand, which was an indirect measure of the sensory motor association.
Clinical Profile and Predictors of Mortality in Patients admitted with COVID-19 in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Shah Syed Vaqar Ahmad , Ansari Farmud , Sohrab Sayed Sartaj , Alam Kadir , Sarraf Deependra Prasad
Published: January 2022

Hospitalization and survival rate in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is affected by pre-existing chronic medical conditions and the disease severity. The objectives of the study were to describe the baseline clinical profile, co-morbidities, disease severity and to assess the predictors of mortality in hospitalized adult patients with COVID-19 in a tertiary care hospital in Nepal. A cross-sectional study was conducted for two months on 168 adult COVID-19 patients admitted to Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital Biratnagar. Demographics, comorbidities, disease severity, oxygen requirement, and treatment outcomes were studied. The mean age of the patients was 57.1 years and 56.5% were male. Out of 168, 16.7% and 10.1% of the participants had currently or in the past used alcohol or tobacco products respectively. Hypertension (28.6%) and chronic lung disease (16.1%) were the most common co-morbidities. The overall case-fatality rate was 17.9%, with 32.1% and 56.3% in the severe and critical COVID-19 subgroup respectively. The mortality rate for patients without co-morbidities was 2.4% which increased to 63.6% for those with three or more co-morbidities. Age, disease severity, and the number of co-morbidities were found to be associated with increased mortality (P<0.05), whereas gender was not. The pre-existing chronic diseases and increased severity of the disease were associated with increased mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 adult patients.
Dampak Tumpang Tindih Keberadaan BRT Trans-Jateng (Mangkang -Weleri) terhadap Angkutan Umum Daerah di Kabupaten Kendal
Authors: Utami Sri Rejeki Laku , Hidayat Adib Wahyu , Shochih Achmad , Selfia Yeni
Published: January 2022

Transportation is a transfer from one place to another with a mode of transportation both land, sea and air. Public transportation is a mode of public service transportation that has a function in providing transportation services in the form of passenger comfort, very affordable fares and a sense of security for public transportation passengers.. This study was conducted to determine the overlap of the existence of BRT Trans Jateng (Mangkang-Weleri) on Regional Public Transportation in Kendal Regency as a solution or alternative policy that can be done to overcome the impact of the overlap. In this study using quantitative methods with observation techniques in the field, interview methods, questionnaires and documentation. The result of this study is the analysis of data that has been conducted field observations as well as the dissemination of questionnaires on the situation of BRT Trans Jateng passengers (Makang –Weleri) as a descriptive analysis. The results of this research data analysis showed the impact of overlap in BRT Trans Jateng (Mangkang-Weleri) on Regional Public Transportation in Kendal by 54.2%. Some alternative policies that can be done to reduce the impact of overlap such as scheduling the departure of public transportation BRT Trans Jateng (Mangkang-Weleri) can be conditioned with regional public transportation. In addition, there is a cooperation between the Provincial Government of Central Java and The Government of Kendal and the owner of AUD (Regional Public Transport) in Kendal Regency related to the departure schedule of the BRT Trans-Jateng (Mangkang-Weleri) bus fleet with Regional Public Transport.
Tingkat Kerusakan Jalan Dengan Metode Pci Dan Bina Marga Pada Ruas Guluk-Guluk Ketawang Laok Sumenep
Authors: Syafi'an Ainun , Suwandi Ahmad
Published: January 2022

Roads are crucial land transportation infrastructure for the growth and seamless operation of commercial, social, and cultural activities. One of the connecting routes between Guluk-Guluk District and Ganding Regency to the Regency is Jalan Guluk-guluk Ketatang Laok (No.378) Guluk-guluk District, Sumenep Regency. The goal of this study is to establish the extent of road damage on the flexible pavement layer on the Guluk-guluk Tawang Laok (No.378) road section, as well as a strategy for restoring the 1 kilometer long road that has been damaged. Quantitative approaches are used to acquire data, which include on-site surveys and data from relevant agencies. This study employs two methods, the PCI and Binamarga methods, with the PCI method yielding recommendations for pavement reconstruction in segments 1 - 4, patching in segments 4 - 8, and routine maintenance in segments 8 - 10, while the Binamarga method yields recommendations for periodic maintenance in segments 1 - 4, patching in segments 4 - 8, and routine maintenance in segments 8 - 10.
ANAYASAL DEMOKRASİLERDE EVRENSEL NORMLARI DEĞERSİZLEŞTİRME (AVRUPA VE TÜRKİYE’DE ANAYASACILIĞIN NEO-POPÜLİZMİ)
Authors: PAÇACI İrfan
Published: January 2022

Geçtiğimiz yüzyılda popülizm, Almanya'da Adolf Hitler, İspanya'da Francisco Franco ve İtalya'da Benito Mussolini gibi diktatörlerin iktidara gelmelerini sağlayan bir işlev görmüştür. Popülizm, 21. yüzyılda Avrupa'nın merkezinde yeniden yükseldi ve ulusların siyasi söylemini şekillendirdi. Avrupa başkentlerinde bir dizi hükümet değişikliği gerçekleşmiş ve bunlardan bazıları anayasa değişikliği ile demokratik rejimden uzaklaşan bir rota çizmişlerdir. Bu rota değişikliğinin başrol oyuncusu Avrupa’da 1980 sonrası yükselen aşırı sağ ve ırkçı partiler ve onların kurduğu iktidarlar olmuştur. Macaristan’da Macar Yurttaş Birliği Partisi (Fidesz), Polonya’da Hak ve Adalet Partisi (PiS), Avusturya’da Avusturya Özgürlükçü Partisi (FPÖ) iktidarlarının demokrasiye karşı anayasal demokrasinin araçlarını kullanarak otoriter yapılar oluşturmuşlardır.Türkiye’nin anayasa tarihi askeri darbelerin uygulamaları ile şekillenen “anayasa yapma” pratiğinden yoksun kalmanın olumsuzlukları ile doludur. Askeri darbeler sonucunda iki farklı toplum projesi öngörerek hazırlanan 1961 ve 1982 Anayasaları “yeni bir düzen” kurmak üzere yürürlüğe konulmuştur. 2017 yılında yapılan anayasa değişikliği, askeri darbelerle Türk anayasa hukukunda yeni bir anayasal-siyasi düzen oluşturma geleneğini bozmuştur. 1982 Anayasasında yapılan bu değişiklik ile getirilen “Cumhurbaşkanlığı Hükümet Sistemi”nde stratejik anayasal kurumların yapı ve işlevleri “dönüştürülerek” yetkilerin tekil bir makam ve onu temsil eden aktör elinde toplanması sağlanmıştır.Bu makalede, popülizmin egemenliğinde ortaya çıkan darbeci geleneğin anayasacılık popülizmine dönüşerek ürettiği “suistimalci anayasa” uygulamaları ile otoriterleşme sorunları küresel bağlamı ve Türkiye ölçeğinde irdelenmektedir.
Experimental investigation of heat transfer in aluminum wings with NACA 4040 profile
Authors: BERBER Adnan , YETİMOĞLU Muhammed
Published: January 2022

Heat transfer is a working area where different numerical results are obtained from different materials, different environments, independent observations are made, data can be collected at different bases based on the abundance of data input. effects on heat transfer. The effects of air flow, air temperature and air pressure on heat transfer were discussed. Unlike the previous studies, the construction of the fin is made of aluminum and the choice of the NACA 4040 wing profile as the shape of the fin was one of the major factors in the differences in the test output. Since the results obtained from the experiments included many products or development factors in the application and production areas that are important, the fact that this study was carried out with aluminum material and the results of the experiments in this direction became a factor increasing the circulation in these processes. In our studies, one type of fin was used.
Leakage detection in underwater oil and natural gas pipelines using convolutional neural networks
Authors: AVCI Ayşegül , KARTAL Seda
Published: January 2022

Underwater oil and natural gas pipelines are an underwater transport infrastructure known to be reliable, fast, and efficient, preferred for the transmission of energy to far distances. The rapid and continuous increase in demand for energy due to population growth, industrial developments, and global growth requires economic and environmental solutions for the safe transmission and control of energy sources such as oil and natural gas. These lines are damaged due to their work in corrosive ambient conditions, natural elements such as sudden change of air and water temperatures, tectonic activities, and external elements such as blows caused by fishing equipment and military exercises. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the damages without requiring more hardware, saving time, and cost. In this study, underwater oil and natural gas pipelines were detected using convolutional neural networks and the detection performance of artificial neural network was analyzed. Underwater pipelines are detected using convolutional neural networks with 97.63% accuracy. A reliable, fast, efficient, controlled, and sustainable model is established to prevent potential damage to underwater pipelines from becoming an environmental threat to water and air pollution and living creatures in the underwater ecosystem with this study.
USE OF EXPERIENCE IN CONSTRUCTION OF MONOLITHIC CEMENT-CONCRETE PAVEMENT OF THE AIRPORT «ODESSA» IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW NATIONAL STANDARD FOR THE AIRFIELD DESIGN
Authors:   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Kryzhanovskyi V.O. , Kroviakov S.O. ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zavoloka M.V. ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Shevchenko V.V. ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Andreeva O.A. ,   State Enterprise "Directorate for the construction of the international airport "Odessa"", Sofiyanyk A.M. ,   State Enterprise "Directorate for the construction of the international airport "Odessa""
Published: January 2022

Abstract. Inspection of the monolithic cement-concrete pavement of the «Odessa» airport runway was carried out. Visual inspection of the runway surface, taxiways and apron for defects has been performed. The condition of the runway pavement was assessed as "excellent", destruction category I. In addition, strength tests of the rigid concrete pavement upper layer were carried out using non-destructive testing methods and core testing. The obtained strength characteristics correspond to the design requirements; the concrete has a grade of at least C32/40. Based on the processed data and own scientific developments, proposals were drawn up for a new standard (instead of SNyP 2.05.08-85 "Aérodromy") regarding the requirements for materials, concrete mixtures and concretes based on them for the runways construction in Ukraine. Modern requirements for monolithic cement-concrete airfield pavements require an extension of their service life up to 40 years. To ensure such indicators of serviceability, in addition to high strength indicators, it is imperative to ensure the rigid pavements durability using high-performance modified concretes. The proposals indicate the cement type, aggregates and chemical admixtures that can be used in the manufacture of concrete for airfield pavements. The requirements for the concrete and concrete mixture properties, the process of concrete curing are also presented. Taking into account the modern superplasticizers and the requirements for the workability of concrete mixtures for the construction of monolithic cement-concrete airfield pavements, the maximum W/C should be in the range of 0.3-0.35. To increase the flexural strength and crack resistance, it is desirable to use dispersed concrete reinforcement. To ensure the service life and satisfactory operational condition of the runway pavements, it is necessary to conduct an annual inspection for the timely identification and correction of arising defects.
KINETICS OF RHEOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FOAM CONCRETE MIXTURE
Authors:   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Martynov V. , Martynova O. ,   Odessa State Agrarian University, Elkin V. ,   LLC «TD Inkraft», Makarova S. ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Kazmirchuk N. ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture
Published: January 2022

Abstract. The results of experimental studies are presented, the purpose of which was to study the influence of variable formulation and technological factors on the rheological characteristics of the foam concrete mixture, in particular, the structural strength. This is preceded by an analysis of the process of structure formation of cellular concrete. As a result, it is shown that the properties of cellular concrete are determined by the nature of the distribution of the solid component. The structure of the solid phase is formed at the earliest stages of the formation of cellular products and depends on the rheological characteristics of the mortar and cellular mixture. In the technology of cellular concrete, it is important to synchronize the processes of pore formation and the growth of plastic (structural) strength, which is also associated with a change in the rheological properties of the mixture. Using the methods of mathematical statistics, the influence of the content of the filler in the mixture with cement, the content of the complex additive, and the effect of mechanical chemical activation on the kinetics of the plastic strength of the foam concrete mixture were studied. The kinetic dependences of the plastic strength of the foam concrete mixture in the range of 6 ... 24 hours from the moment of manufacture have been constructed. Each of the 15 curves is maximized by a 3rd-degree polynomial. Based on the obtained dependences, they are differentiated between the first and second derivatives. As a result, the equations of the speed and intensity (acceleration) of the plastic strength of the foam concrete mixture were obtained. According to the results of the previous experiment, carried out according to a three-factor plan, a 4-factor plan was synthesized, in which the aging period of the foam concrete mixture was taken as the fourth factor. The calculated theoretical values of the characteristics of the structural strength of the foam concrete mixture were entered into the matrix. As a result, mathematical models of plastic strength, speed, and intensity of plastic strength of the foam concrete mixture were calculated and the influence of variable factors studied on the isosurfaces of these properties was visualized. The analysis of these dependencies made it possible to determine the characteristic recipe and technological conditions for obtaining a foam concrete mixture with the required values of plastic strength.
APPLICATION OF THE APPROACH TO CREATE AN INFORMATION CONSTRUCTION MODEL AT THE PRE-DESIGN STAGE OF INVESTMENT AND CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Authors:   Kyiv National University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Chertkov O.Y. , Khokhrіakova D.O. ,   Kyiv National University of Civil Engineering and Architecture
Published: January 2022

Abstract. At the present stage of development of the construction industry, steps to improve the efficiency of investment and construction projects can no longer be considered outside the context of construction information modeling technologies. Today, one of the main criteria for optimizing work on investment and construction projects is to reduce the time spent searching, working out and agreeing on spatial, financial, and temporal information about the construction object, therefore, the issue of the correct organization of information modeling of a construction site is quite relevant. In most cases, the design assignment is drawn up in the form given in Appendix B DBN A 2.2-2-2014 and is formal in nature. The presence of a design assignment, drawn up using the tools proposed below, reflects the thoroughness of the customer's elaboration of an investment and construction project, and reduces the risks of its implementation. The proposed methodology is based on three components of counter design, such as disaggregation, aggregation, and decomposition, from which its name – DAD –approach comes from. Allocation of structural elements in the structure of a building by disaggregation (analysis of alternative options) allows to create its model in the form of a hierarchical structure consisting of detailed and mutually synchronized parts - the configuration of the building. In accordance with the configuration of the construction site, hierarchical numbering is further reflected at all stages of design and in all its sections, incl. stamps of drawings and local estimates. This creates a unified system of interconnection and control of project sections. The creation of a construction site configuration in the form of a tree model with hierarchically numbered elements at the pre-design stage allows it to be applied at subsequent stages of the life cycle of a construction object in information modeling technologies. The use of the DAD – approach in counter-design is intended to increase the efficiency of the implementation of investment and construction projects.