bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making the Case for a Physiologic Approach to Childbirth
Authors: Lothian Judith A.
Published: July 2012

In this column, Optimal Care in Childbirth: The Case for a Physiologic Approach by Henci Goer and Amy Romano is reviewed. The book presents compelling evidence for the value and importance of a physiological approach to childbirth and provides a clear, exhaustive guide for making sense of the research in the context of the current maternity care system. The book is an invaluable resource for navigating the maze of contemporary obstetrics for both health-care professionals and childbearing families.
Considerations When Using Videos in Lamaze Classes
Authors: Hotelling Barbara A.
Published: July 2012

There are enough worthwhile videos available today so that a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator could literally teach an entire class series using only videos and feedback discussion. In this column, the author explores considerations in choosing videos for adult learners in Lamaze birth classes. Some things to consider when using videos should be the adult learner’s attention span, whether the video increases fear of birth or empowers the learner, and if the video is appropriate for the culture of the class participants. Finally, the author provides a list of some of the many wonderful videos available to Lamaze birth educators.
US Health Policy Related to Hookah Tobacco Smoking
Authors: Primack Brian A. , Hopkins Maggie , Hallett Cynthia , Carroll Mary V. , Zeller Mitchell , Dachille Kathleen , Kim Kevin H. , Fine Michael J. , Donohue Julie M.
Published: July 2012

Objectives. Although US cigarette smoking is decreasing, hookah tobacco smoking (HTS) is an emerging trend associated with substantial toxicant exposure. We assessed how a representative sample of US tobacco control policies may apply to HTS.

Methods. We examined municipal, county, and state legal texts applying to the 100 largest US cities. We developed a summary policy variable that distinguished among cities on the basis of how current tobacco control policies may apply to HTS and used multinomial logistic regression to determine associations between community-level sociodemographic variables and the policy outcome variable.

Results. Although 73 of the 100 largest US cities have laws that disallow cigarette smoking in bars, 69 of these cities have exemptions that allow HTS; 4 of the 69 have passed legislation specifically exempting HTS, and 65 may permit HTS via generic tobacco retail establishment exemptions. Cities in which HTS may be exempted had denser populations than cities without clean air legislation.

Conclusions. Although three fourths of the largest US cities disallow cigarette smoking in bars, nearly 90% of these cities may permit HTS via exemptions. Closing this gap in clean air regulation may significantly reduce exposure to HTS.
Polymer-Supported Reagents and Catalysts Recent Advances in Synthetic Applications
Authors: Bhattacharyya Sukanta
Published: July 2012

The current surge in parallel array synthesis for the production of small molecule libraries has
generated keen interest in the application of solid-supported reagents and catalysts in solution-phase
chemistry. The strategy assimilates the advantages of product isolation and purification of solid-phase
organic synthesis with the flexible choice of chemistry from the vast repertoire of solution-phase organic
reactions. This review summarizes the significant recent advances in the application of polymer-bound
reagents and catalysts in solution-phase synthesis of organic molecules. Multi-step reaction sequences
employing sequential use of polymer-supported reagents are also discussed. In view of the earlier review
publications on this topic, only the recent literature covering 1998 and 1999 is included.
Relationship between Uric Acid Levels and Diagnostic and Prognostic Outcomes in Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Henry-Okafor Queen , P. Collins Sean , A. Jenkins Cathy , F. Miller Karen , J. Maron David , J. Naftilan Allen , Weintraub Neal , J. Fermann Gregory , McPherson John , Menon Santosh , B. Sawyer Douglas , B. Storrow Alan
Published: July 2012

Objectives:

We evaluated the association of plasma uric acid alone and in combination with b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) for emergency department (ED) diagnosis and 30-day prognosis in patients evaluated for acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods:

We prospectively enrolled 322 adult ED patients with suspected AHF. Wilcoxon rank sum test, multivariable logistic regression and likelihood ratio (LR) tests were used for statistical analyses.

Results:

Uric acid's diagnostic utility was poor and failed to show significant associations with 30-day clinical outcomes. Uric acid also did not add significantly to BNP results.

Conclusion:

Among ED patients with suspected AHF, uric acid has poor diagnostic and prognostic utility
The Moderating Effect of Transformational Leadership on Knowledge Management and Organizational Effectiveness
Authors: Chi Hsin-Kuang , Lan Chun-Hsiung , Dorjgotov Battogtokh
Published: July 2012

In this research, we used the hypothesis model to explore the moderating effect of transformational leadership (TL) on knowledge management (KM) and organizational effectiveness (OE). The model was tested on 524 research and development (R&D) professionals at 21 research institutes
of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences (MAS). The results showed that TL is a moderator between KM and OE. In addition, the results supported the fact that TL and KM have a reinforcement interaction effect on OE. Therefore, the highest level of OE is achieved when both TL and KM are at a high
level. Thus, TL was determined to be the most effective and appropriate leadership style for use in R&D organizations in Mongolia.
Counterproductive Work Behaviors, Confucian Values, and Production Deviance: the Mediating Effect of Job Satisfaction
Authors: Guo Xiao-Wei
Published: July 2012

Production deviance is 1 of 5 dimensions of counterproductive work behaviors (CWB). Based on data collected from 362 employees of Chinese enterprises, I examined the predictive effect of Confucian values on production deviance and the mediating effect of job satisfaction on the relationship
between Confucian values and production deviance using structural equation modeling. I analyzed 3 factors of production deviance: work sabotage, slackness, and withdrawal. Confucian values were found to have a significant negative impact on these factors. Furthermore, job satisfaction was
found to partially mediate the relationship between Confucian values slackness and withdrawal, but not work sabotage.
Family Resource Management Style and Life Adjustment of Low-Income Single Mothers in China
Authors: Chen I-Jun , Gu Yan , Chen Cui
Published: July 2012

Using 2 questionnaires, we examined the relationship between family resource management styles and life adjustment among 271 low-income single mothers in China. The results indicated that there were significant differences in family resource management styles depending on the educational
background of the single mothers and their reason for heading the family. The women also reported significant differences in life adjustment. The interaction effect of resource management styles and monthly income on life adjustment was significant. Specifically, resource management styles
and educational background significantly predicted the women's life adjustment.
Motivations, Constraints, and Lifestyle Adjustments Associated with Urban Taiwanese Women's Use of Sport and Health Clubs
Authors: Yen Chun -Chang , Ho Li-Hsing , Su Wei-San , Hsueh Yao-Shun , Huang Hsiu-Chin
Published: July 2012

The current emphasis on women's health and gender egalitarianism in Taiwan means that urban women are joining sport and health clubs in pursuit of self-development. The aim in this study was to develop and analyze the motivations, constraints, and methods of lifestyle adjustment in
regard to urban women's use of sport and health clubs in Taiwan. Participants were 373 women from 5 cities in Taiwan and tests were conducted using structural equation modeling. The results indicated that the motivations, constraints, and lifestyle adjustments with regard to leisure sports
positively affected women's participation in sports clubs. Specifically, although participation constrains acted as crucial antecedent variables influencing motivations to participate, they did not have any influence on lifestyle adjustments. Based on the results of this study, suggestions
are made about management and policies of sport and health clubs.
Does Increasing Attractive Attributes Lead to Positive Outcomes in a Consumer Context?
Authors: Ting Shueh-Chin
Published: July 2012

In terms of customer satisfaction, by giving a product or service attractive attributes it is possible to create a new market and expand the share in an existing market, thus increasing profitability. However, there is a need for an examination of the attractive attributes, involving
their quality and frequency of usage (quantity), that should be provided to customers at the time of purchase. In this study the customer's emotions of gratitude and guilt were investigated to explain why the effect of attractive attributes on customer delight is not always positive. Results
suggest that the shape of the attractive curve in the model developed by Kano, Seraku, Takahashi, and Tsuji (1984) should be modified.
Perturbed angular correlation investigation of the electric field gradient at 181Ta probe in the Hf2Ni7 compound
Authors: Cekic Bozidar , Umicevic Ana , Ivanovski Valentin , Hu Rongwei , Petrovic Cedomir , David Bohumil , Barudzija Tanja
Published: July 2012

The perturbed angular correlation method was employed to study the
temperature dependence of electric field gradients at the 181Ta probe in the
polycrystalline Hf2Ni7 compound. The temperature evolution of the sample
content was measured using high-temperature X-ray diffraction. To check the
magnetic order of the sample, magnetization measurements and additional
perturbed angular correlation measurements with externally applied magnetic
field were performed. All obtained spectra showed no evidence of magnetic
order of the Hf2Ni7 phase. Within the experimental resolution of the
apparatus, the measured electric field gradients at 181Ta probe for the two
inequivalent 181Hf/181Ta sites in the Hf2Ni7 compound appeared as one in the
range of 78-944 K. A single quadrupole interaction implies that the electric
field gradients at the two Hf sites must be quite similar. At 293 K, the
measured quadrupole interaction parameters are ?Q = 433(1) MHz and ? =
0.300(4). An increase of the quadrupole frequency and a gradual rising of the
asymmetry parameter were observed with increasing temperature. The
high-temperature X-ray diffraction indicated a build up of HfO2 above 693 K.
Isochronous mode of the future collector ring at the Centre for heavy ion research, Darmstadt, Germany
Authors: Toprek Dragan , Weick Helmut , Litvinov Sergey
Published: July 2012

Short-lived exotic nuclei can be produced and separated with the high-energy
nuclear beam facility called fragment separator at the Centre for Heavy Ion
Research. These nuclides can be injected and stored in the storage ring
called experimental storage ring. The lower lifetime limit of the presently
existing methods for mass measurements on these nuclides at the experimental
storage ring is about a few seconds. We have developed and investigated an
isochronous operational mode of the future collector ring, that makes mass
measurements feasible for nuclides with lifetimes down to a few microseconds.
A mass resolving power of about 150 000 is expected.
Influence of electron motion in target atom on stopping power for low-energetic ions
Authors: Stevanovic Nenad , Markovic Vladimir , Arsenijevic Momir , Nikezic Dragoslav
Published: July 2012

In this paper the stopping power was calculated, representing the electrons
of the target atom as an assembly of quantum oscillators. It was considered
that the electrons in the atoms have some velocity before interaction with
the projectile, which is the main contribution of this paper. The influence
of electron velocity on stopping power for different projectiles and targets
was investigated. It was found that the velocity of the electron stopping
power has the greatest influence at low energies of the projectile.
Mineral characterization of soil type ranker formed on serpentines occurring in southern Belgrade environs Bubanj Potok
Authors: Cekic Bozidar , Ivanovski Valentin , Djordjevic Aleksandar , Aleksic Velimir , Tomic Zorica , Bogdanovic Stefan , Umicevic Ana
Published: July 2012

The paper addresses the issue of health risk associated with the presence of
chrysotile in the soil type ranker formed on massive serpentines occurring in
the area of Bubanj Potok, a settlement located in the southern Belgrade
environs, Serbia. Characterization of the ranker soil was conducted by
scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, micro-Raman spectroscopy and
transmission 57Fe M?ssbauer spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy
figures showed regular shaped smectite (montmorillonite) particles,
aggregates of chlorite, and elongated sheets of serpentines minerals
antigorite. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the presence of detrital
mineral quartz polymorph as well as minor amounts of other mineral species.
Micro-Raman spectroscopy identified the presence of dominant minerals, such
as montmorillonite, kaolinite, muscovite, gypsum, calcite, albite, amphiboles
(hornblende/kaersutite) and orthoclase. Important polymorph silica
modifications of quartz, olivine (forsterite), pyroxene
(enstatite/ferrosilite, diopside/hedenbergite), and serpentine
(antigorite/lizardite/chrysotile) were identified.
The Ability of Clinical Tests to Diagnose Stress Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Schneiders Anthony G. , Sullivan S. John , Hendrick Paul A. , Hones Benjamin D.G.M. , McMaster Andrew R. , Sugden Bridget A. , Tomlinson Celia
Published: July 2012

Study Design

Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of clinical tests to identify stress fractures in the lower limb.

Background

Stress fractures are a bone-related overuse injury primarily occurring in the lower limb and commonly affecting running athletes and military personnel. Physical examination procedures and clinical tests are suggested for diagnosing stress fractures; however, data on the diagnostic accuracy of these tests have not been investigated through a systematic review of the literature.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in 8 electronic databases to identify diagnostic accuracy studies, published between January 1950 and June 2011, that evaluated clinical tests against a radiological diagnosis of lower-limb stress fracture. Retrieved articles were evaluated using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool, and a meta-analysis was performed where appropriate.

Results

Nine articles investigating 2 clinical procedures, therapeutic ultrasound (n = 7) and tuning fork testing (n = 2), met the study inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis was used to statistically analyze the data extracted from the ultrasound articles and demonstrated a pooled sensitivity of 64% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 55%, 73%), specificity of 63% (95% CI: 54%, 71%), positive likelihood ratio of 2.1 (95% CI: 1.1, 3.5), and negative likelihood ratio of 0.3 (95% CI: 0.1, 0.9). Tuning fork test data could not be pooled; however, sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio ranged from 35% to 92%, 19% to 83%, 0.6 to 3.0, and 0.4 to 1.6, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review do not support the specific use of ultrasound or tuning forks as standalone diagnostic tests for lower-limb stress fractures. As the overall diagnostic accuracy of the tests investigated is not strong, based on the calculated likelihood ratios, it is recommended that radiological imaging should continue to be used for the confirmation and diagnosis of stress fractures of the lower limb.

Level of Evidence

Diagnosis, level 1a-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(9):760–771, Epub 19 July 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.4000
Performance of Tomato Varieties during Rainy Season under Plastic House Conditions
Authors: Chapagain Tika R , Khatri Bhim B , Mandal Jawahar L
Published: July 2012

Plastic house technology and arrival of hybrid varieties have increased the possibility of tomato cultivation in rainy season in high hills. An experiment was conducted to assess the performance of tomato varieties under plastic house for two consecutive years from 2009 to 2010 at National Commercial Agriculture Research Program (NCARP), Pakhribas (1750m), Nepal. The experiment consisted of eight tomato varieties namely, All Rounder, Bishesh, Dalila, Manisha, Srijna, Suraksha, Trishul and US-04 laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The varieties differed significantly for all observed traits. The highest marketable yield was recorded from All Rounder (86.6 t ha-1) followed by Srijana (80.8 t ha-1). Srijana took the shortest period for flowering and harvesting with an average of 37 and 77 days after transplanting respectively. This was also the tallest variety (268.7 cm) with more clusters (36.23) per plant. However, the highest average single fruit weight was recorded from Manisha (61.94g), and the largest fruit size in US-04 with a diameter of 5.78 cm. Based on yield parameter, the varieties All Rounder and Srijana are recommended for commercial cultivation under plastic house conditions.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6473 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 17-22
Supplementation of Broilers Diet with Different Sources of Growth Promoters
Authors: Sanjyal S , Sapkota S
Published: July 2012

A study was conducted at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Sciences (IAAS), Rampur, Chitwan from 29 August to 17 October, 2007 to compare the effects of antibiotic (chlortetracycline) and probiotic (Lactobacillus acidophilus) with three herbal growth promoters, Amala (Emblica officinalis),(EO), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), (OC) and Aswogandha (Withania somnifera),(WS) on growth performance, feed consumption, feed conversion efficiency, carcass characteristics, and economics of broiler production. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with day-old broiler chick (192) randomly assigned to eight groups containing 8 chick in each and replicated three times. The control group received the maize-soybean based basal diet. In the treatment groups, the basal diet was supplemented with one of the following: antibiotic, probiotics, Tulsi, Amala, and Aswogandha and also in combination of herbs, forming eight treatments respectively. Results showed significantly better production in herbs. Significantly higher digestibility of all the nutrients (P<0.05) was observed in Amala+Tulsi+Aswogandha (T8) supplemented group. Highest body weight (1.440kg) was recorded in birds fed diet supplemented with Amala and Tulsi, and the lowest body weight (1.317kg) was seen in antibiotics (T2) fed birds. The highest income over expenditure (Rs.26.36) was recorded in birds fed diet supplemented with Tulsi (T6), although the difference was not significant among the treatments. Looking at the benefit cost ratio, highest B/C ratio was found in birds supplied with Tulsi (1.19) supplemented diet and minimum (1.12) was recorded in Amala supplied diet. Hence, this experiment showed that herbs as growth promoters can replace antibiotics in the diet of broiler chicken. However, it needs multilocational trials before recommendation for adoption by poultry growers.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6478 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 41-50
Comparison of Growth Performance of Khari Goats Fed with Different Level of Rice Bran and Urea Treated Rice Straw (UTRS) in Fodder Based Diets
Authors: Tiwari MR , Shrestha BK , Panday LN , Mandal P
Published: July 2012

For correcting, the nutritional imbalance of rice straw feed diet by supplementing energy and protein rich concentrate (rice bran) an experiment was carried out in growing male goats at Agriculture Research Station (Goat), Bandipur, Tanahun from November 2009 to Januwary 2010. Twelve goats of 6-7 months of age and similar body weight were divided into four treatment groups having three animals in each group by using complete randomized design. Four types of diet were formulated for these experimental animals. The animals of control group (treatment 1) were provided UTRS, Raikhanayo and concentrate mixture at the rate of 65, 25 and 10% of dry matter requirement, respectively. Dry matter requirement of treatment 2 was fulfilled by providing urea treated rice straw (UTRS), Raikhanayo and rice bran @ 65, 25 and 10%, respectively. Treatment 3 received dry matter requirement by UTRS, Raikhanayo and rice bran @ 55, 25 and 20%, respectively whereas treatment 4 got @ 45, 25 and 30 percent UTRS, Raikhanayo and rice bran, respectively. The study revealed that there was no significant effect in fodder and UTRS intake between diet groups except rice bran (P<0.001). Likewise, there was highly significant (P<0.001) effect in total dry matter intake between diet groups. The highest body weight gain was observed in treatment 4 (17.5 ± 1.8 kg) followed by treatment 3 and 2 (15.66 ± 1.15 kg and 15.5 ± 3.27 kg, respectively). The lowest body weight gain was noted for treatment 1 (14.5 ± 1.80 kg); however, it was also found non-significant between diet groups. Average daily gain was recorded highest in treatment 4 (50 g /day) followed by treatment 2 (31.44 g /day) whereas average daily gain for treatment 1 and 2 were recorded similar (27.77 g /day).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6480 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 55-60
In-vitro Antimicrobial Activity and Phytochemical Screening of Fritillaria delavayi
Authors: Maharjan Bijaya L , Devkota Hari K , Baral Bikash
Published: July 2012

Fritillaria delavayi Franch is one of the medicinal plants used in traditional medical system for ailment of various diseases. But scientific study of the plant has been less carried out for which the study was conducted for validation of prevailing medical practice. The soxhlet extraction of the bulbs of plant were conducted in various solvents (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and water) differing in polarity. Maximum yield (6.79%) was obtained in aqueous fraction and lowest (0.14%) in ethyl acetate fraction. The phytochemical screening of extracts revealed the presence of volatile oil, glycosides, sterol and triterpenes, polyoses, saponins, reducing compounds, quinones, flavonic glycosides and coumarins. In antimicrobial assay conducted by agar well diffusion method, chloroform fraction was found to be more effective towards bacterial and fungal pathogens tested, followed by ethyl acetate and methanol fraction. The hexane and aqueous fractions were found to be least effective against all the tested pathogens. Among the bacterial pathogens, maximum inhibition zone was depicted against Klebsiella pneumoniae (22 mm) by chloroform extracts while among the fungal pathogens, greatest inhibition activity was observed against Fusarium moniliforme (19 mm). The antimicrobial activity of extracts suggested potential use of the plant in treatment of various diseases.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6484 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 85-90
Antifungal Activity of Actinomycetes from Vermicompost and Their Morphological and Biochemical Characterization
Authors: Baniya Rishi , Vaidya Gita S
Published: July 2012

Thirty eight actinomycetes were isolated from saw dust and husk containing vermicompost samples. Of them, four (10.5%) were active against at least one of the tested phytopathogenic fungi; Fusarium oxysporum, F.moniliforme, F. proliferatum, Stemphylium botryosum, Exserohilum turcicum and human pathogenic fungi; Candida albicans and Aspergillus spp. during dual culture method. Of them, VAH3 showed broad spectrum activity against both pathogenic fungi with maximum inhibition of 24.53 ± 0.20% against F. oxysporum and minimum inhibition of 12.37 ± 0.24% against Stemphylium botryosum on solid agar surface. In agar well diffusion method, only VAH3 showed broad spectrum activity with maximum inhibition diameter of 14 mm against F. proliferatum and minimum inhibition diameter of six mm against Sclerotium rolfsii. Among them, one promising strain Streptomyces VAH3 was selected for further study. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of crude antifungal agent against F. oxysporum, Stemphylium botryosum, and Exserohilum turcicum, Candida albicans and Aspergillus spp. were found to be 560 ?g/ml, 1120 ?g/ml, 1120 ?g/ml, 560 ?g/ml and 1120 ?g/ml, respectively. Morphological, biochemical and physiological tests confirmed that all four potent strains were from Streptomyces genus.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6486 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 97-102
Diversity of Cordyceps Fungi in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Bhushan
Published: July 2012

Fungi are a part of the biodiversity that play a significant role in daily livelihood of the local communities. Yarsagumba (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) is one of the highly valued medicinal fungi that grow in the Tibetan Plateau of China and alpine grasslands of Nepal, Bhutan and India. Genus Cordyceps was recently revised and divided into four genera: Cordyceps, Elaphocordyceps, Metacordyceps and Ophiocordyceps, based on molecular phylogeny and morphology. The recent revision has consequently changed the scientific name of Yarsa gumba from Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. to Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sung et al. In Nepal, scientific study of Cordyceps species started about 60 years ago. During last 30 years, different Cordyceps species have been reported from Nepal. In this paper, Cordyceps species reported from Nepal have been discussed along with their synomyms, morphological characters, hosts and distributions in the global context.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6487 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 103-110
An Assessment of Ethnomedicinal Use, Chemical Constituents Analysis and Bioactivity Evaluation on High Altitude Medicinal Plant Delphinium brunonianum of Manang District
Authors: Tripathee Hari P , Sharma Ram P , Timilsina Yagna P , Pathak Ramayan , Devkota Krishna P
Published: July 2012

The medicinal plant Delphenium brunonianum collected from Manang district, Nepal has been selected for its study on ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical investigation and bioactivity evaluation. This plant is found to be used extensively by the community for the treatment of fever, headache, stomachache and poison removal. From phytochemical investigation, four known compounds namely ?-amyrin (1), ?-sitosterol (2), ?-sitosterol glucoside (3) and anthriscifoldine (4) have been isolated from methanol extract of D. brunonianum. Compound 1 is triterpene, 2 and 3 are sterols, whereas, 4 is a diterpenoid alkaloid. The structures of all compounds were determined with modern spectroscopic techniques including 1D- and 2D- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance techniques and comparison with literature data. The extract and all compounds exhibited antibacterial properties with respect to the zone of inhibition and minimum inhibitory concentration against Bacillus subtilis, staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aureginous, Escherchia coli and Salmonella flexinarie. Compound 4 was found to be more active than other compounds, and even than the standards ampicillin and gentamicin in most of the tested bacteria.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6488 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 111-118
Nutritional Analysis of Morchella conica and its Role on Rural Livelihood
Authors: Magrati Thakur P , Tripathee Hari P , Devkota Krishna P
Published: July 2012

The multipurpose Himalayan mushroom Morchella conica is one of the most popular wild high valued edible mushrooms throughout the world. It makes a good income generating source for rural livelihood. This study mainly focuses on the nutritional constituents of M. conica and its medicinal uses with social and financial values for rural livelihood. Nutritional analysis was conducted based on moisture, ash, crude fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The highest value of carbohydrate was 36.5% followed by protein 35.0%, crude fiber 28.8%, crude fat 12.0%, ash 8.2% and moisture 8.0%. In social and financial aspects of M. conica in the studied area, 20% ethnic groups involved for collection of this species. M. conica is economically high priced in which 60.0% poor and 53.3% medium class people are considering this to support their livelihood. The study also showed that this species is a potential source of diet and income for rural people.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6489 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 119-126
A New Route for the Synthesis of Quinazolinones
Authors: Mishra AD
Published: July 2012

Quinazolinone derivatives are highly bioactive heterocyclic compounds with wider range of microbial activities such as anti-malarial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-convulsant, anti-HIV, etc. Solid supported microwave synthesis of some 3-substituted-4-(2H)-quinazolinones has been carried out by the reaction of anthranilic acid, formaldehyde and primary aromatic amines. The usage of hazardous reagents and organic solvents has been avoided. The reactions were conducted in presence of acidic alumina where formaldehyde entered into cycloaddition to yield the quinazolinone derivatives. The reactions completed within 2-4 minutes with 82-94% of yields in microwave reactions while it took 5-7 hours for completion affording only 56-68% of the yields in conventional reactions. The synthesized quinazolinone derivatives showed moderate to promising antibacterial and antifungal activities.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6491 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 133-138
Recovery of Nickel Oxide from Primary-type Portable Spent Battery: an Experimental Strategy
Authors: Jha Vinay K , Miyake Michihiro
Published: July 2012

In the present work three methods were chosen for the recovery of NiO from primary-type spent battery. In first method, Ni(OH)2 rich fraction of the precipitate was obtained at 7.4 pH after removing the precipitate obtained at pH 4. Second method followed the path of acid (HCl) leached solution treated with sodium hydroxide and thus obtained metal hydroxides which were treated with ammonia solution. Ni(OH)2 solid obtained after evaporation of [Ni(NH3)](OH)2 complex solution was calcinated at 1000°C to get NiO. The method followed the path of acid (HCl) leached solution treated with ammonia solution. Thus obtained [Ni(NH3)](OH)2 complex solution was evaporated till the blue color vanished and then treated with NaOH up to pH 12. The Ni(OH)2 solid after filtration and some more Ni(OH)2 after further heating of liquid solution were dried in oven and then calcinated at 1000°C. Variations of initial amount of battery waste and NH3 concentration were made in order to confirm the degree of efficiency. Third method was found superior in terms of recovery efficiency while second method was better in term of finer and smaller NiO particles.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6499 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 193-200
Diversity and Community Assemblage of Littoral Zone Benthic Macroinvertebrates in Jagadishpur Reservoir
Authors: Shah Deep N , Shah Ram D Tachamo , Pradhan Bandana K
Published: July 2012

Littoral benthic macroinvertebrates diversity and community assemblage of Jagadishpur Reservoir were studied during post-monsoon (2008) and pre-monsoon (2009) seasons. Altogether twelve sites in the littoral zone of the reservoir were sampled for benthic macroinvertebrates by using a kick-and-sweep method with a standard handnet. At each site, benthic macroinvertebrate samples were taken from different possible substrate types. The environmental variables of each site were collected based on Lentic Ecosystem Field Protocol during sampling. Biological metrics were used to describe the diversity and composition of benthic macroinvertebrates. The relationship between benthic macroinvertebrates assemblage and substrate types were examined by using principal component analysis. Cluster analyses were performed to describe the similarity among samples. In total, 50 taxa, belonging to 15 orders were recorded for littoral zone of the reservoir. The recorded higher number of taxa (family level) belonged to order Heteroptera (water bugs) and Diptera (flies), and class Mollusca. Mollusca for post-monsoon and Diptera (particularly Chironomidae) for pre-monsoon shared the highest proportion in the total density. Shannon diversity index (H’) for post-monsoon was 1.82±0.46 and for pre-monsoon was 1.38±0.53 and was significantly different between seasons (p=0.01). Principal component analysis revealed that increase in taxa numbers were positively correlated to soft substrates while negatively correlated to non-soft substrates in littoral zone of the reservoir. Cluster analyses discriminated the sites into two main groups for both seasons. The study concludes that benthic macroinvertebrates diversity is highly influenced by substrate types, water level fluctuation, and human accessibility to the reservoir. Therefore, in order to stabilize benthic macroinvertebrates diversity and their abundance, it is essential to maintain surface water level, stabilize bank substrate and minimize human pressure.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6505 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 211-19
Dynamics of Abies spectabilis in Relation to Climate Change at the Treeline Ecotone in Langtang National Park
Authors: Gaire Narayan P , Dhakal Yub R , Lekhak Harish C , Bhuju Dinesh R , Shah Santosh K
Published: July 2012

This paper is aimed to study the tree line dynamics of Himalayan silver fir (Abies spectabilis D. Don) based on its tree-ring data and age stand distribution at Langtang National Park, Central Nepal. Climatic response on radial growth, recruitment of A. spectabilis and its age distribution are carried out. The average tree density of the species in the study area (total 48 plots of 20 m x 20 m) was 236 no/ha while that for sapling and seedling in the study area was 255 and 350 no/ha, respectively. The stand character and age distribution of the species showed a high level of recruitment in the recent decades, with decreased in average age along with increased altitude. Tree-growth climate relationship showed negative response with temperature of March-May. Upward advancement of tree line is expected in the coming recent decades though not necessarily uniform through the line.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6506 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 220-229
K-Ar Dating of White Mica from the Lesser Himalaya, Tansen-Pokhara Section, Central Nepal: Implications for the Timing of Metamorphism
Authors: Paudel Lalu P
Published: July 2012

The Lesser Himalaya in central Nepal comprises low- to medium-grade metasedimentary rocks. Metamorphic studies show that they have experienced at least two metamorphic events (M1 and M2). However, exact timing of metamorphism is still controversial. In the present study K-Ar dating of white micas in shales, slates, phyllites, schists and gneisses from the Tansen-Pokhara section was carried out to understand the timing of metamorphism. The muscovite in gneiss from the MCT zone shows an age of about 1255 Ma representing the age of crystallization of parent granite. Detrital mica from the Bhainskati Formation gives an age of about 2441 Ma. Probably this is the age of crystallization of muscovite in its provenance. The recrystallized white micas from slate and phyllite show older ages (Early Paleozoic) in the southern part (279 to 458 Ma). Most probably this represents the timing of M1. Age become gradually younger towards the north due to the mixing of older (M1 related) and younger (M2 related) white micas. Youngest age (10 Ma) was measured from the sample just below the Upper MCT. This age may be related to the M2 which was due to the Late Miocene-Pleistocene reactivation of the Upper MCT.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6509 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 242-251
On Vector Valued Paranormed Sequence Space l (X,M, ?, p,L) Defined by Orlicz Function
Authors: Pahari Narayan Prasad
Published: July 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6510 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 252-259
Statistical Models and Water Quality Characterization of Source Waters in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Iswori L , Shrestha Sirijan L
Published: July 2012

Available sample data of 270 water samples collected from different intake sources of Nepal is analyzed. Analysis showed that well waters were the hardest with more than 60% samples recording hardness above 180 mg/l whereas stream and spring waters showed only 20% and 10% in the same range, respectively. Total dissolved solid (TDS) contents in spring and stream waters were below 500 mg/l while wells waters showed 16% above 500 mg/l. More than 80% from all sources showed pH values within WHO limit. Electric conductivity (EC) was found very low in almost all samples from stream and spring waters. Only well waters showed about 55% with EC in between 500 and 1000 ?mhos/cm. Spring and stream waters were corrosive compared to well waters. In well waters 60% were found stable and 15% scalable. Two nonlinear statistical models, a log-linear and a Box-Cox transformed model are found appropriate for estimating total hardness and TDS, respectively with predictor variables like temperature, pH, and electric conductivity. Models are useful for the purpose of prediction when measurements are unavailable for total hardness and TDS.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6511 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 260-267
Statistical Analysis of Factors Affecting Utilization of Antenatal Care in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Gauri , Shrestha Ganga
Published: July 2012

Antenatal care provides an entry point for pregnant women to the health care system. This study investigates factors associated with the use of maternal health services as number of antenatal care visits. For analyzing the use of antenatal care health services system in Nepal, data were extracted from individual recods of a data file of NDHS 2006. The unit of analysis for this study is Ever Married Woman (EMW) who had at least one live birth in the five years preceding the survey. The sample of study consisted of 4182 EMW. The simple cross tabulation and chi square tests were used for examining the bivariate relationship and multinomial logit (MNL) model was selected for establishing linkage between number of antenatal care visits and several explanatory variables. Estimation of the parameter of this MNL models done by what is known as iteratively weighted leastsquare (IRWLS), which was identical to the algorithm of Fisher scoring and leads to maximize likelihood estimates. The results were interpreted in terms of odd ratios. The result of this study showed that women with low education level, those residing in rural areas and those with low socio-economic status were less likely to use number of ANC visits.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6512 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2010) 268-275
Age at Menarche and Its Relation to Ages at Marriage, First-Birth and Menopause among Rural Nepalese Females
Authors: Aryal Tika R
Published: July 2012

The aim of this paper is to study age at menarche and its relation to ages at marriage, first birth and menopause among resident of rural Nepalese females. Data are taken from a sample survey of Palpa and Rupandehi districts. Median ages at marriage, first birth and menopause were found to be 17, 19 and 46 years respectively. It was found that ages related events (menarche, marriage, first birth and menopause) were found to be largely inter-related. The waiting time at menarche for getting married was found to be about two years, and the correlation between age at menarche and age at marriage is statistically significant. Transition probability matrix also revealed that ages at menarche, marriage, first birth and menopause were found to be statistically associated. Finally, the onset of menarche among females signals that they will be ready for marriage and thereby giving birth of child. These findings may help planners and policy-makers for designing proper policy in improving reproductive health and reproductive rights of females along with controlling the level of fertility in a country.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6513 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 276-285
Use of Particle Agglutination in the Diagnosis of Dengue Virus Infection in Western Nepal
Authors: Pun Ramesh , Pant Krishna P , Shah Yogendra , Sherchand Shardulendra P , Pandey Basu D
Published: July 2012

Dengue is an emerging vector borne viral disease in Nepal. The study was conducted to detect dengue virus specific IgM and to analyze demographic distribution of positive cases. This is a cross-sectional study carried out in western region of Nepal from August-October 2007. A total of 116 serum samples were collected from suspected dengue virus infected patients visiting hospitals and investigated by particle agglutination. Out of 116 sera, 12 (10.34%) had a positive dengue virus specific IgM. The positivity in age group below 15 years old was 23.08%, 7.32% in 15-50 years age group and 14.29% above 50 years age group. The ratio of positivity in male and female was 1:1. However, there were no statistical significance in the positivity with age (P=0.27) and sex (P=0.91). Thus, dengue has been established in western region of Nepal and diagnosis of the disease can be done by particle agglutination assay. The particle agglutination should be suggested for the diagnosis of dengue in all health centers of Nepal. Awareness programmes on prevention of dengue and surveillance of the disease should be conducted to reduce morbidity and mortality during possible outbreak of it.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6514 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 286-289
Characterization of the Influenza Virus Inhibiting Fractions of Bergenia ligulata
Authors: Rajbhandari M , Schoepke Th
Published: July 2012

In the course of screening of plant extracts for anti-influenza viral activity, 50% aqueous methanolic extract exhibited antiviral activity against influenza virus A. Bio-assay guided fractionation of the extract led to the indication of the presence of condensed tannins as the active constituents. This was confirmed by chemical tests as well as by thin layer chromatographic comparison with known tannin containing plant extracts. The active fractions were also analysed for the presence of carbohydrates by gas chromatography.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6515 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 290-295
Invitro Screening of Antifungal Activity of Rhizospheric Bacteria and Possible Role of Chitinase in Antifungal Activity
Authors: Devkota Hari K , Maharjan Bijaya L , Baral Bikash , Singh Anjana , Yami Kayo D
Published: July 2012

The use of biocontrol agents is becoming an increasingly important alternative to chemical crop protection against weeds, insects and plant diseases in the field of agriculture. The success of biocontrol and yield increase depends on the nature of antagonistic properties and mechanisms of action of the biocontrol agent against the phytopathogens. In this study, 103 macroscopically different bacterial isolates (62 from Kirtipur and 41 from Khumaltar) from 21 different rhizosphere soil samples (11 from Kirtipur and 10 from Khumaltar) were screened for antagonism against five fungal phytopathogens, viz, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, Exserohilum turcicum and Phytophthora infestans by dual culture technique on Potato dextrose agar. Out of 18 different active isolates two of them showed the chitinolytic potential and the most active fungal antagonist was identified as Bacillus subtilis on the basis of colonial, morphological, physiological and biochemical characteristics based on Bergey’s Manual of systemic bacteriology. The isolate produced maximum chitinase in colloidal chitin broth at pH7 and temperature 37oC after four days of inoculation. The corresponding culture filtrate supposed to contain chitinase showed maximum % inhibition of 53.29% with Fusarium oxysporum and no inhibition to Phytophthora infestans in agar well diffusion assay. Furthermore, chitinase was best fractionated at 40% ammonium sulphate salt fractionation which has almost similar inhibition potential as the crude culture filtrate. The 40% salt fraction of the enzyme showed the maximum chitinolytic potential at pH8 and temperature 40oC. Among the phytopathogens tested, sensitivity of Bacillus subtilis to fungi containing chitin on their cell wall demonstrates the possible role of chitinase in the antifungal activity.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6517 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 304-311
Scanning Electron Microscopic Studies on Surface Pattern of the Pollen Loads from Apis cerana in Jajarkot District
Authors: Paudayal Khum N , Gautam Ishan
Published: July 2012

Over nineteen species of pollen flora belonging to thirteen families were recovered from four pollen load samples from honey bee Apis cerana collected in Jajarkot district, mid-western region, Nepal. The pollen morphology was investigated using light microscopy along with scanning electron microscopy for correct identification of pollen to its lower taxonomic level and to contribute to melissopalynological studies originating from the native apiflora. The palynological assemblage identified to the generic and some up to species level belong to Alnus sp., Artemisia sp., Brassica sp., Cornus sp., Diploknema sp., Fraxinus sp., Ilex sp., Jasminum sp., Justicia sp., Ligustrum sp., Myrica esculenta, Salix sp., Strobilanthes sp., and Urtica sp. Some of the pollen grains identified to only family level, belong to, Acanthanceae, Compositae, Lamiaceae and Rosaceae. The identified pollens clearly reflect the botanical and geographical origins of the pollen load samples. Palynomorphological investigation included the description of pollen symmetry, polarity, ornamentation, aperture, shape and size. The results for the pollen assemblages and nectariferous plant sources of Jajarkot district are discussed.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6522 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 340-349
Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Yaks of Lehe VDC, Manaslu Conservation Area
Authors: Byanju Reena , Shrestha SP , Khanal DR
Published: July 2012

Qualitative analysis of 44 fecal samples of yaks from Lehe VDC of Manaslu Conservation Area showed the positive result in 36 samples (81.82%). Strongyle showed the highest infection (47.23%) while the least was with Amphistomum (8.34%). Infection with Trichuris, Ascaris, Eimeria and Coccyx were also reported in the present study. The pattern of infection was both mixed (52.78%) and single (47.23%).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6525 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 366-369