bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the Ensemble-Optimization Method Through Covariance-Matrix Adaptation
Authors: Fonseca R.M.. M. , Leeuwenburgh O.. , Van den Hof P.M.J.. M.J. , Jansen J.D.. D.
Published: February 2015

Ensemble optimization (referred to throughout the remainder of the paper as EnOpt) is a rapidly emerging method for reservoir-model-based production optimization. EnOpt uses an ensemble of controls to approximate the gradient of the objective function with respect to the controls. Current implementations of EnOpt use a Gaussian ensemble of control perturbations with a constant covariance matrix, and thus a constant perturbation size, during the entire optimization process. The covariance-matrix-adaptation evolutionary strategy is a gradient-free optimization method developed in the “machine learning” community, which also uses an ensemble of controls, but with a covariance matrix that is continually updated during the optimization process. It was shown to be an efficient method for several difficult but small-dimensional optimization problems and was recently applied in the petroleum industry for well location and production optimization. In this study, we investigate the scope to improve the computational efficiency of EnOpt through the use of covariance-matrix adaptation (referred to throughout the remainder of the paper as CMA-EnOpt). The resulting method is applied to the waterflooding optimization of a small multilayer test model and a modified version of the Brugge benchmark model. The controls used are inflow-control-valve settings at predefined time intervals for injectors and producers with undiscounted net present value as the objective function. We compare EnOpt and CMA-EnOpt starting from identical covariance matrices. For the small model, we achieve only slightly higher (0.7 to 1.8%) objective-function values and modest speedups with CMA-EnOpt compared with EnOpt. Significantly higher objective-function values (10%) are obtained for the modified Brugge model. The possibility to adapt the covariance matrix, and thus the perturbation size, during the optimization allows for the use of relatively large perturbations initially, for fast exploration of the control space, and small perturbations later, for more-precise gradients near the optimum. Moreover, the results demonstrate that a major benefit of CMA-EnOpt is its robustness with respect to the initial choice of the covariance matrix. A poor choice of the initial matrix can be detrimental to EnOpt, whereas the CMA-EnOpt performance is near-independent of the initial choice and produces higher objective-function values at no additional computational cost.
Recent Progress in the Use of Glucagon and Glucagon Receptor Antago-nists in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lotfy Mohamed , Kalasz Huba , Szalai Gyorgy , Singh Jaipaul , Adeghate Ernest
Published: February 2015

Glucagon is an important pancreatic hormone, released into blood circulation by alpha cells of the islet of Langerhans. Glucagon induces gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis in hepatocytes, leading to an increase in hepatic glucose production and subsequently hyperglycemia in susceptible individuals. Hyperglucagonemia is a constant feature in patients with T2DM. A number of bioactive agents that can block glucagon receptor have been identified. These glucagon receptor antagonists can reduce the hyperglycemia associated with exogenous glucagon administration in normal as well as diabetic subjects. Glucagon receptor antagonists include isoserine and beta-alanine derivatives, bicyclic 19-residue peptide BI-32169, Des-His1-[Glu9] glucagon amide and related compounds, 5-hydroxyalkyl-4-phenylpyridines, N-[3-cano-6- (1,1 dimethylpropyl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1-benzothien-2-yl]-2-ethylbutamide, Skyrin and NNC 250926. The absorption, dosage, catabolism, excretion and medicinal chemistry of these agents are the subject of this review. It emphasizes the role of glucagon in glucose homeostasis and how it could be applied as a novel tool for the management of diabetes mellitus by blocking its receptors with either monoclonal antibodies, peptide and non-peptide antagonists or gene knockout techniques.
The Humelock Hemiarthoplasty Device for Both Primary and Failed Management of Proximal Humerus Fractures: A Case Series
Authors: A Ikram , J Singh , S Jagarnauth , W.S Khan , J Hambidge
Published: February 2015

Fractures of the proximal humerus account for 4-5% of all fractures. Managing proximal humerus fractures operatively and non-operatively have their respective complications both short- and long-term. We present our experience using the Humelock hemiarthoplasty device for both primary and failed management of proximal humeral fractures. We present four different examples from ten cases that include a failure of internal fixation, a failure of intramedullary nailing, a complex case in a patient with multiple co-morbidities, and a failure of nonoperative management. The patients in our series had multiple injuries and the device allowed early mobilization and produced good results. We suggest that this device has a role in the failure of primary and secondary management of proximal humeral fractures in a district general hospital setting.
Risk of Complications in Spine Surgery: A Prospective Study
Authors: Reis Rodolfo Casimiro , Oliveira Matheus Fernandes de , Rotta José Marcus , Botelho Ricardo Vieira
Published: February 2015

Purpose :

Complications are the chief concern of patients and physicians when considering spine surgery. The authors seek to assess the incidence of complications in patients undergoing spine surgery and identify risk factors for their occurrence.

Methods :

Prospective study of patients undergoing spine surgery from 1 February 2013 to 1 February 2014. Epidemiological characteristics and complications during the surgical hospitalization were recorded and analyzed.

Results :

The sample comprised 95 patients (mean age, 59 years). Overall, 23% of patients were obese (BMI =30). The mean BMI was 25.9. Approximately 53% of patients had comorbidities. Complications occurred in 23% of cases; surgical site infections were the most common (9%). There were no significant differences between patients who did and did not develop complications in terms of age (60.6 vs 59.9 years, p = 0.71), sex (56% female vs 54% female, p = 0.59), BMI (26.6 vs 27.2, p = 0.40), or presence of comorbidities (52% vs 52.8%, p = 0.87). The risk of complications was higher among patients submitted to spine instrumentation than those submitted to non-instrumented surgery (33% vs 22%), p=0.8.

Conclusion :

Just over one-quarter of patients in the sample developed complications. In this study, age, BMI, comorbidities were not associated with increased risk of complications after spine surgery. The use of instrumentation increased the absolute risk of complications.
Ciric type generalized F-contractions on completemetric spaces and fixed point results
Authors: Mınak Gülhan , Helvacı Asuman , Altun Ishak
Published: February 2015

Recently, Wardowski [15] introduced the concept of F-contraction on complete
metric space. This type contraction is proper generalization of ordinary
contraction. In the present paper, we give some fixed point results for
generalized F-contractions including Ciric type generalized F-contraction and
almost F-contraction on complete metric space. Also, we give some
illustrative examples.
Existence of anti-periodic solutions for a class of first order evolution inclusions
Authors: Liu Xiaoyou , Liu Yiliang
Published: February 2015

The existence of anti-periodic solutions for a class of first order nonlinear
evolution inclusions defined in the framework of an evolution triple of
spaces is considered. We study the problems under both convexity and
nonconvexity conditions on the multivalued right-hand side. The main tools
in our study are the maximal monotone property of the derivative operator
with anti-periodic conditions, the surjectivity result for L-pseudomonotone
operators and continuous extreme selection results from multivalued analysis.
An example of a nonlinear parabolic problem is given to illustrate our
results.
On G-sequential continuity
Authors: Mucuk Osman , Şahan Tunçar
Published: February 2015

Let X be a first countable Hausdorff topological group. The limit of a
sequence in X defines a function denoted by lim from the set of all
convergent sequences to X. This notion has been modified by Connor and
Grosse-Erdmann for real functions by replacing lim with an arbitrary linear
functional G defined on a linear subspace of the vector space of all real
sequences. Recently ?akall? has extended the concept to the topological group
setting and introduced the concepts of G-sequential compactness, G-sequential
continuity and sequential connectedness. In this paper we give a further
investigation of G-sequential continuity in topological groups.
On generalized soft equality and soft Lattice structure
Authors: Abbas Mujahid , Ali Basit , Romaguera Salvador
Published: February 2015

Molodtsov introduced soft sets as a mathematical tool to handle uncertainty
associated with real world data based problems. In this paper we propose
some new concepts which generalize existing comparable notions. We introduce
the concept of generalized soft equality (denoted as g-soft equality) of
two soft sets and prove that the so called lower and upper soft equality of
two soft sets imply g-soft equality but the converse does not hold.
Moreover we give tolerance or dependence relation on the collection of soft
sets and soft lattice structures. Examples are provided to illustrate the
concepts and results obtained herein.
Existence of fixed points of mappings on general topological spaces
Authors: Shah Masood , Hussain Nawab , Ciric Ljubomir
Published: February 2015

The existence of fixed points for continuous mappings on general topological
spaces via compact subsets is proved. All our results presented here are new
and are generalizations, extensions and improvements of the corresponding
results due to Ciric, Jungck, Liu and many others. Further, certain results
due to Ciric are improved and extended to topological spaces which are not
necessarily Hausdorff and completely regular.
Coupled fixed point theorems for new contractive mixed monotone mappings and applications to integral equations
Authors: Işik Hüseyin , Türkoğlu Duran
Published: February 2015

The aim of this paper is to extend the results of Bhaskar and Lakshmikantham
and some other authors and to prove some new coupled fixed point theorems
for mappings having a mixed monotone property in a complete metric space
endowed with a partial order. Our theorems can be used to investigate a
large class of nonlinear problems. As an application, we discuss the
existence and uniqueness for a solution of a nonlinear integral equation.
Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum - the causal agent of broccoli soft rot in Serbia
Authors: Gasic Katarina , Gavrilovic Veljko , Dolovac Nenad , Trkulja Nenad , Zivkovic Svetlana , Ristic Danijela , Obradovic Aleksa
Published: February 2015

Soft rot symptoms were observed on broccoli plants in several commercial
fields in the western part of Serbia. Six strains of bacteria were isolated
from diseased tissues and identified as Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp.
carotovorum using conventional bacteriological and molecular methods. All
strains were non-fluorescent, gram-negative, facultative anaerobes,
oxidase-negative and catalase-positive, causing soft rot on potato and carrot
slices and did not induce hypersensitive reaction on tobacco leaves. They
grew in 5% NaCl and at 37?C, did not produce acid from ?-methyl glucoside,
sorbitol and maltose, nor reducing substances from sucrose, but utilized
lactose and trehalose, and did not produce indole or lecithinase. The
investigated strains showed characteristic growth on Logan?s medium and did
not produce blue pigmented indigoidine on GYCA medium nor ?fried egg?
colonies on PDA. The identity of strains was confirmed by ITS-PCR and
ITS-RFLP analyses and by sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene. In a
pathogenicity assay, all strains caused tissue discoloration and soft rot
development on inoculated broccoli head tissue fragments.
Identification of Penicillium expansum causing postharvest blue mold decay of apple fruit
Authors: Vico Ivana , Duduk Natasa , Vasic Miljan , Nikolic Milica
Published: February 2015

Penicillium expansum (Link) Thom. is one of the most important postharvest
pathogens of apple fruit worldwide. It causes blue mold, a decay that can
lead to significant economic losses during storage, which can also impact
fruit destined for processing due to the production of carcinogenic mycotoxin
patulin. Apple fruit cvs. Idared, Golden Delicious and Braeburn with blue
mold symptoms were collected from five storage facilities in Serbia and nine
fungal isolates were obtained. Pathogenicity of the isolates was tested and
proven by artificial inoculation of healthy apples cv. Idared. In order to
identify the causal agents of decay, morphological and molecular methods were
used. Colony morphology and microscopic features were observed on
differential media, and isolates were tested for the production of
cyclopiazonic acid. Molecular analysis included PCR amplification with
species specific primers for P. expansum based on polygalacturonase gene
(Pepg1), universal primers for internal transcribed spacer rDNA region and
primers based on ?-tubulin gene. All isolates formed compact blue green
colonies with characteristic earthy odor. Conidiophores were terverticillate
with smooth septate stipes and conidia were smooth, globose to subglobose,
born in colums. The average size of conidia was 3.38 ? 0.49 (SD) x 3 ? 0.36
(SD) ?m. Using species specific primers PEF/PER the texpected amplicons of
~404 bp were obtained in all nine tested isolates and PCR conducted with the
Bt-LEVUp4/ Bt-LEV-Lo1 and universal ITS1/ITS4 primer pairs generated
amplicons of the expected sizes of ~800 bp and ~600 bp, respectively.
MegaBlast analyses of the 2X consensus of nucleotide sequences of the isolate
JP1 partial ?-tubulin gene and ITS region showed 99-100% and 100% similarity
with several P. expansum sequences of corresponding regions of this species
deposited in GenBank. Based on morphological and molecular features, the
isolates obtained from decayed apple fruit collected in several storage
facilities in Serbia were identified as P. expansum.
Strawberry resistance to the aphid Chaetosiphon fragaefolii Cockerell (Homoptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Milenkovic Slobodan , Pesakovic Marijana , Marcic Dejan , Milosevic Drago
Published: February 2015

Cross-sections of leaf blades and petioles of different strawberry genotypes
exhibiting different levels of resistance to Chaetosiphon fragaefolii were
studied using the paraffin method, and staining with safranin, crystal violet
and light green. Besides thicker cell walls of the cortex collenchyma in the
more resistant genotypes, and a proportionally wider collenchyma than
parenchyma in the cortex, their midribs are also encircled by a ring of more
intensely stained lignified cells forming a physical ring. This stain
reaction of cells to safranin and crystal violet occurs also in lateral
vascular bundles, as well as in leaf palisade tissue. The tissue
cross-sections of the sensitive genotypes revealed a predominance of green on
the cellulose cell walls and protoplasts due to the reaction to light green
SF, while stain reactions to safranin and crystal violet were not evidenced.
Residual efficacy of cypermethrin and pirimiphos-methyl against Sitophilus granarius (L.) and Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) on concrete surface
Authors: Andric Goran , Kljajic Petar , Prazic-Golic Marijana
Published: February 2015

Residual activity of EC formulations of two insecticides, cypermethrin
(combined with the synergist piperonyl butoxide) and pirimiphos-methyl,
against Sitophilus granarius (L.) adults and Plodia interpunctella (H?bner)
larvae was investigated on concrete surface. The experiment was run indoors
at 16-24?C temperature and 30-60% r.h. by applying water solutions of
products based on cypermethrin (48 mg AI/m2) and pirimiphos-methyl (750 mg
AI/m2) to concrete surface. Insect mortality was estimated after 2, 7 and 14
days of insect exposure to treated concrete and 7 days of recovery on
untreated coarse wheat meal at 24-26?C and 55-65% r.h in the laboratory. High
efficacy of cypermethrin against S. granarius adults (87-100%) and P.
interpunctella larvae (84-100%) was detected after 14 days of exposure to all
deposits on concrete surface. Pirimiphos-methyl achieved maximum efficacy
(100%) in all treatments of S. granarius adults and P. interpunctella larvae
after 2 and 14 days of exposure, regardless of deposit age. After 7 days of
recovery, the efficacy of both insecticides mostly increased, especially of
cypermethrin, up to around 50% after two days of exposure, up to 24-45% after
seven days of exposure and up to 15% after 14 days of exposure. The results
show that the EC formulations of cypermethrin and especially of
pirimiphos-methyl were highly effective in controlling S. granarius adults
and P. interpunctella larvae over a period of 60 days following application
to concrete surface.
Antifungal activity of six plant essential oils from Serbia against Trichoderma aggressivum f. europaeum
Authors: Djurovic-Pejcev Rada , Potocnik Ivana , Milijasevic-Marcic Svetlana , Todorovic Biljana , Rekanovic Emil , Stepanovic Milos
Published: February 2015

Six essential oils (EOs) extracted from plants originating in Serbia were
assayed for inhibitory and fungicidal activity against a major fungal
pathogen of button mushroom causing green mould disease, Trichoderma
agressivum f. europaeum. The strongest activity was demonstrated by the oils
of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and peppermint (Mentha piperita L.). Medium
antifungal activity of St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) and walnut
[Juglans regia (F)] oils was also recorded. Oils extracted from yarrow
(Achillea millepholium L.) and juniper (Juniperus communis L.) exhibited the
lowest activity. Peppermint oil showed fungicidal effect on the pathogen,
having a minimum fungicidal concentration of 0.64 ?l ml-1. The main
components of peppermint essential oil were menthone (37.02%), menthol
(29.57%) and isomenthone (9.06%).
How Plausible is Using Averaged NAEP Values to Examine Student Achievement?
Authors: Marchant Gregory J.
Published: February 2015

Software limitations and difficulty of use have led to some using averaged values instead of plausible values. This study compared the results of plausible values using AM Statistical Software with averaged values using SPSS for descriptive statistics multiple regressions using the 2009 4th and 8th grade math and reading National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) for the total sample in addition to a subsample of Native American students. Gender and poverty and absenteeism and enjoyment of the subject material were used in separate equations to predict achievement. The subgroup means were almost identical, but differences were evident in the standard deviations. The regressions yielded similar results for both approaches. The results suggested that averaged values might present a viable, although not ideal, approach to plausible values.
Effect of Exercise Intensity Level on Choice Reaction Time
Authors: Jin Xi , Eason Bobby , Loftin Mark
Published: February 2015

The primary aim of this study was to examine the effects of exercise intensity and duration on choice reaction time with a secondary aim to examine the influence of aerobic fitness on choice reaction time. Fifteen college-aged men enrolled in a physical fitness activity course participated. We observed a cubic trend ( r =.99) across exercise intensity that ranged from unloaded cycling to 90% of physical working capacity (PWC). However, no significant differences were noted across intensity (medium effect size) or duration (small effect size). The fastest choice reaction time occurred at 75% of PWC, which was near the ventilatory threshold (72.6% of VO2max). Aerobic fitness was average for college-aged men (39.3 ml/kg/min.) and was poorly correlated with choice reaction time across exercise intensity. Further research is needed to compare choice reaction time in high to low fitness groups across exercise intensity.
Physician as an Infective Vector at a Department of Surgery
Authors: Paduszyńska Katarzyna , Rucińska Ludmiła Gags Monika , Pomorski Lech
Published: February 2015

This study was designed to assess the degree of risk of bacterial transmission from physician to patient through hands, equipment and enclosing surfaces (shoe soles).

The study was conducted in the Clinical Department of General and Oncological Surgery UM in Łódź. In days 16.10.2013, 17.10.2013, 18.10.2013 there were done swabs from hands, stethoscopes and soles of shoes from the same group of physicians before and after doctor's rounds. The presence of alert-pathogens in swabs was regarded as positive result.

Isolates included mostly aerobic saprophytic bacilli and Staphylococcus species coagulase-negative. There were detected a singly cases of Acinetobacter Baumani and Escherichia coli. Alert-pathogens were found in 4 (16%) swabs taken from hand before doctor's rounds and in 7 (28%) swabs taken after rounds. Stetoscopes were contaminated by alert-pathogens in 3 (12%) cases before doctor's rounds and in 3 (12%) cases taken after doctor's rounds. Soles of shoes were contaminated by alert-pathogens in 14 (56%) cases taken before and 16 (65%) cases taken after doctor's rounds.

1. Physicians are important factor of bacterial transmission in hospital. 2. Hands, stetoscopes and particularly soles of shoes of medical staff is the source of infection.
The Role of Apolipoprotein (A) In Pathogenesis and Clinical Course of Deep Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Chrapko Marek , Skwarzyński Adam , Karakuła Wacław , Zubilewicz Tomasz
Published: February 2015

Deep venous thrombosis is widespread disease, which complications, like: pulmonary embolism and postphlebitis syndrome areimportant social problem. There are many well-known and accurately described risk factors, though in many cases etiology remains unexplained. Further research into causes of deep venous thrombosis seem to be fully justified.

was the evaluation of the influence of apolipoprotein (a) serum level in patients with deep venous thrombosis and the changes of its concentration during the treatment.

26 patients with newly diagnosed deep venous thrombosis (DVT) were enrolled to the study. Diagnosis of DVT was established by use of physical examination and duplex Doppler. Measurements of apolipoprotein (a) and D-dimers serum level were recorded on the following days, starting from the day of the initial diagnosis: 1, 7, 14 and 84.

Statistically significant increase of the level of serum apolipoprotein (a) has been found during properly conducted treatment.

Alterations of the concentration of serum apoliprotein (a) during the deep venous thrombosis treatment, indicates the involvement of apolipoprotein (a) in pathogenesis of deep venous thrombosis.
Two Sample Sputum Microscopy and Revised Tuberculosis Case Definition by WHO: Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Dewan Gourab
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: Three samples of sputum (Spot-Morning-Spot) used for screening patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis in Bangladesh. At least two positive samples required for case definition. Cases with single positive smear require additional chest x-ray or culture. The study was done to evaluate utility of two sputum samples for case detection and whether adoption of new case definition (requiring single positive sample) recommended by World Health Organization adds advantage over current case definition for diagnosing smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of sputum positive pulmonary tuberculosis cases taken from two separate hospitals in southeast Bangladesh. Frequency, pattern and increment of smear positivity noted in each samples. Smear positive cases reevaluated using proposed case definition and compared with current national definition.  RESULTS: Sputum positivity for first, second and third samples was 71.6%, 99.0% and 97.3% respectively (n=408). Incremental new case detection rate was 71.6%. 28.1% and 0.2% in same order. Morning sputum had the highest sensitivity for case detection (99.0%). Incremental new case detection from third sample was negligible and using current case definition of sputum positive tuberculosis in three samples left some inconclusive cases requiring further x- ray or culture for diagnosis pending decision further. Adoption of new case definition reduces number of inconclusive cases and diagnostic delay.  CONCLUSION: Two sputum samples adequate for screening of tuberculosis suspects. Adopting new case definition will reduce number of cases left inconclusive with microscopy alone (using current case definition). This will strengthen role of microscopy in tuberculosis detection in low resource setting.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12034 Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page: 1-6
Serum Lipid Profile in Hypothyroid Patients in Nepal
Authors: Aryal Sudip , Joshi A
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: Hypothyroidism is non-curable common endocrine disorder in which the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough thyroid hormone. Present with a number of symptoms, Having a low level of thyroid hormone affects our whole body. Untreated hypothyroidism can be the cause of raised cholesterol levels. Many study have shown association between hypothyroidism and lipid profile. In this study, we evaluate the mean lipid profile status in subclinical hypothyroidism and hypothyroid patients.  MATERIAL AND METHODS: A hospital based retrospective study done from the record card maintained in Alka Hospital, Jawalakhel. Total number of participants were 215. Out of which 73 had overt hypothyroidism, 92 had subclinical hypothyroidism and 50 were taken as control. SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis.  RESULTS: The level of LDL, TG and TC was significantly higher in case of overt hypothyroidism as compared to control group, but no significant difference was found in subclinical hypothyroidism and control group. TG level was significantly lower in subclinical hypothyroidism cases.  CONCLUSION: Elevated HDL, LDL & TC is seen in overt hypothyroid patients. It is important to screen for lipid profile in hypothyroid patients.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12065Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page: 33-36
Isolated Traumatic Proximal Tibio-Fibular Joint Dislocation: Case Report of a Rare Injury
Authors: Kumar Vijaya , Haran Hari , Goyal S , Oliveria M
Published: February 2015

We report a rare case of isolated traumatic anterolateral dislocation of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation in a 41 year old female patient who was admitted in our institution following a twisting injury to knee. Initial clinical examination and plain radiographs were equivocal needing bilateral axial Computed Tomography (CT) scan for definite diagnosis. We discuss the various aspects of this rare injury including the current management options and clinical outcome.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12066Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page: 37-40
Biomedical Waste Management in Nepal: a Review
Authors: Chaudhary Nagendra , Mahato S. K. , Chaudhary S. , Bhatiya B D
Published: February 2015

Available with full text. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12070Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol. 02, No. 04, Issue 08Page : 45-52
Perceptions and Performance of Undergraduate Medical Students in Objective Structured Practical Examinations (OSPE) in Biochemistry at Rak Medical and Health Sciences University (Rakmhsu), UAE
Authors: Goud BKM , Begam S. , Zaki B. , Haridas S.
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: Health educators and accrediting bodies have defined objectives and competencies that medical students need to acquire to become a safe doctor. The present study was done to determine the student perception and satisfaction regarding OSPE as an assessment method of laboratory practical sessions in Biochemistry.  MATERIAL AND METHODS: During OSPE sessions hundred MBBS first year students were divided into 3 different batches. These students were asked to rotate around 10 different working stations. Each station designed to complete a task comfortably within 5 minutes. One or two rest stations of 5 minutes are given at end or in between to complete the unfinished writing work. All the students perform the same task in the same time frame. Institutional research and effectiveness office (IRO) gets the student feedbacks on OSPE will inevitably result in the refinement of the OSPE as a tool for learning and evaluation.  RESULTS: The study showed that 96.5% students agreed that OSPE questions were linked to the curriculum and 93% of students felt objectives were clear. Eight eight percent students perceived that OSPE covered a wide range of learning outcomes. Ninety five percent felt relevant psychomotor skills were assessed using agreed check list. An 86% and 81% of student perceived that it was conducted fairly and is unbiased. In terms of stress we got mixed response as 50.5% percent of students perceived OSPE to be less stressful and other half felt stressful. Seventy two percent of students agreed OSPE preparation facilitated team work. Ninety percent strongly agreed that exam scores are better and 83% said it is easier to pass. Fifty four percent of the students felt that the time given was too short; especially for procedure stations. Ninety six percent of students felt OSPE should be an integral part of assessment tool for the Biochemistry practical's.  CONCLUSION: The current study showed several advantages of OSPE as an objective, structured, unbiased, fair, valid and reliable assessment method. In view of the tremendous advantages, OSPE should be included in summative evaluation to improve student's clinical competence.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12071 Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page: 54-61
Diabetes: Emerging Pandemic
Authors: Agrawal K K , Chaudhary S
Published: February 2015

Not available. (Editorial)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12072Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol. 2, No. 4 Issue 08Page : 01
Theoretical Framework for Migration Research
Authors: Jnawali Damodar
Published: February 2015

Migration is a spatial or geographical mobility of human population. Present paper deals with the concept of theoretical and conceptual framework in a research with specific reference to migration studies. A theory provides guidelines for a research work whereas conceptual framework is based on a theory or it is a modified model of the previous researchers that can be developed according to the nature of present research proposed. The researcher has to identify variables affecting migration and develop hypotheses in order to establish relationship between dependent and independent variables to be used in the study.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v11i0.11522The Third PoleVol. 11-12, 2012page: 1-5
Utilization and Benefits of Biogas in The Settlements Along The Siddhartha Highway In Syangja District, Nepal
Authors: Gautam Dilli Raj
Published: February 2015

This paper aims at analyzing the benefits of biogas system installed along the Siddhartha Highway in Syangja district. Because of the low level of development, the rural households of Nepal are still utilizing the traditional energy resources. About 87 percent of the total energy requirements in Nepal are met by traditional sources of energy. Among them, 77.3 percent energy has been fulfilled by fuel wood alone. To reduce the household consumption of fuel wood energy and save the environment, time and money, biogas system was introduced in Nepal since 1955. However, 261650 biogas systems are installed in Nepal till now. Among them, 6716 plants are installed in Syangja district, of which 38.56 percent plants are located along the Siddhartha highway. According to the respondents, owing to their social prestige, pollution free indoor environment, easy for cooking, conservation of natural resources and reduced work for women and school children, they are satisfied with their biogas system.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v11i0.11523The Third PoleVol. 11-12, 2012page:6-11
Freed Bonded Labour in the Far Western Tarai
Authors: Awasthi Narad
Published: February 2015

The bonded laborers (Kamaiyas) were mostly from the indigenous Tharu ethnic group, who are still socially and economically disadvantaged. They have been surviving on the agricultural labor practice for centuries in the mid and far western Tarai of Nepal. This paper concentrates on the socio-economic and demographic background and means of livelihood of the freed Kamaiyas in Kanchanpur district of the far western development region of Nepal. For study purpose, 55 heads of household were selected from Krishnapur, Daijee VDCs and Bhimdatta municipality. All of them were from the Tharu community. They were from 20-55 years of age group and average age of the freed Kamaiyas was38 years. Educational background was unsatisfactory and they all were married. The Kamiyas were not well settled from the side of government. Therefore, they were compelled to change their continuous means of livelihood. The study shows that they have been employed in different sectors of economic activities. Agriculture wage labor, sharecropping, non-agriculture wage labor, government and private services within and outside the country, carpentry, masonry and many other types of occupation have been conducted by the freed labor (Kamaiyas) in the study area. They were economically in the worst condition and the average income was only NRs 3400 per month. They have raised some concerning issues via landlessness, education, employment and rehabilitation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v11i0.11527Third PoleVol. 11-12, 2012Page: 29-33
Geographical Elements in the Puranas
Authors: Gnawali Damodar
Published: February 2015

The central focus of this paper is on the geographical elements like mountains, rivers and places mentioned in the Puranas. Among them, Bhagavatamahapurana has mainly been consulted for this purpose. The source indicates that the names of the mountains and rivers are similar even today as they were in the ancient period. The paper describes the fact that no one can find out the exact knowledge about the universe. The universe is with in the subject of the Vedic Cosmology. This cosmology has also been narrated in the Puranas. The universe is endless and has no limited boundary. All the living beings that appear today were created by the God and at last merge into the God. This tradition continues. The atheists do not believe the God. However, they accept the nature as all in all.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v13i0.11537The Third PoleVol. 13, 2013Page : 1-6
Impact of Climate Change on Large Cardamom-Based Livelihoods in Panchthar District, Nepal
Authors: Rijal Shiba Prasad
Published: February 2015

The paper aims at analyzing the impact of climate change on large cardamom-based livelihoods in Panchthar district by reviewing literature and compiling perceptions of local people. Large cardamom, a newly introduced high-value cash crop grown in 36 hill and mountain districts in Nepal, is cultivated in all 41 Village Development Committees of Panchthar district concentrating largely in its northern and eastern parts at the elevations of roughly between 500 to 2000 meters above sea level. Though area coverage and production of large cardamom is limited compared to other crops, its contribution on people’s livelihood is significant as it has high market value. Production of large cardamom contributes much on people’s livelihoods as it is the main source of household income and provides seasonal employment to thousands of people from farm to the market. Some local cultural producers have also been using bi-products of large cardamom for production of handicrafts such as baskets, tablemats, bags, and window blinders. Besides, it has numerous indirect implications such as reduction in soil erosion and landslides, and increase in biodiversity and carbon’s tock. In recent years, production of large cardamom has been declining as a result of climate change induced factors. The decline adversely affects people’s livelihoods.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v13i0.11544The Third PoleVol. 13, 2013page : 33-38
Thesis Writing at Master’s Level in Education
Authors: Avasthi Tara Prasad
Published: February 2015

This paper has highlighted the thesis writing format for Master’s Degree in Education at Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu. It briefly describes the process to make uniformity in the style of writing. Here focus has been given on American Psychological Association (APA) style. This format is commonly adopted in most of the Departments in the Tribhuvan University, and Department of Geography Education is one of them. It is essential for the students and researchers who involve in theses research and formatting their writings. It is a very important aspect of Master's level research for students and an essential element of research reporting. Moreover, it gives good ideas and way-out in thesis writing. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v13i0.11548The Third PoleVol. 13, 2013Page 57-59
Environmental Conservation in Nepal: The Educational Perspective
Authors: Bajracharya Kishwor Bajra
Published: February 2015

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v3i0.1780The Third Pole Vol.3&4 2004 p.75-81
Social Dynamic Status and its Reflection on Use of Family Planning Methods in an Indian Village: The Case of 'Gaura' Village (UP), India
Authors: Singh Vimalesh Kumar , Singh M. B.
Published: February 2015

Present paper aims at examining the recent transformation of the village society, which is caste ridden, conservative and sluggish to adopt new innovations. The paper is mainly based on primary data collected through interview schedules from 80 families and 123 married women respondents on stratified random basis from Gaura village of Mirzapur District, Uttar Pradesh. On the basis of social dynamic status in a rural population of Gaura village the study pinpoints that Yadav, Gupta, Lohar, and Harijan (Scheduled caste) castes are static communities while Kurmi has been found single progressive caste. Brahmin and Kumhar are categorized as retrogressive castes. The paper also highlights the position of spouse on the practice of family planning methods. This study was undertaken to assess the extent of awareness among married women towards the various aspects of family planning. It was found that majority of the respondents had knowledge and awareness about various aspects of family planning but its adoption is of low magnitude. Women were the major users of permanently contraceptives (tubectomy) as contrary to men. Some women were found with the use of oral pills but the use of loops, condom and copper-T was almost absent in the study village. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v5i0.1953 The Third Pole, Vol. 5-7, PP 52-61:2007
Chitwan National Park: A Prime Destination of Eco-Tourism in Central Tarai Region, Nepal
Authors: Bhusal Narayan P.
Published: February 2015

Within the Himalayan region, Nepal is one of the countries that receive the largest number of international tourists, and also one where tourism has shown relatively rapid growth. The recent decades in Nepal tourism is being explored as one of the avenues for local development and it is second important source of foreign exchange for Nepal. This paper is an attempt to present the brief description of tourism resources in general and Royal Chitwan National Park (but since the republic government in Nepal the name has been changed to Chitwan National Park and hereafter it is named only CNP) as an example of prime destination of eco-tourism in Nepal. Existing tourism activities and its environmental considerations have been discussed on the basis of available secondary and primary sources of information. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v5i0.1956 The Third Pole, Vol. 5-7, PP 70-75:2007
Editorial Vol.8-10
Authors: Rajbhandari Gayatri
Published: February 2015

Not available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v8i0.11505 The Third Pole: Journal of Geography Vol.8-10, pp. 1-8: 2010
Health Problems of Scavengers: The Case of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Nepal
Authors: Avasthi Tara Prasad
Published: February 2015

Present paper examines health problems of scavengers. The Study concentrates on the group of people who normally carry out activities such as collection and selling waste paper, dirty plastic, iron, scrap metal and other materials of dumping site. Findings are based on the survey of 40 scavengers of Teku dumping site, Kathmandu. The study indicates that the occupation seems highly risky and most vulnerable for their health.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v8i0.11513 The Third Pole: Journal of Geography Vol.8-10, pp. 57-61: 2010
Towards a Geography of Nepalese Cuisine
Authors: Seddon David
Published: February 2015

This is the first part of an article which proposes to break new ground in developing a conceptual framework for and presenting a preliminary empirical analysis of ‘the geography of Nepalese cuisine’. This part of the article sets outsome of the elements required for an exploration of national, regional and local cuisines. It elaborates the concept of ‘cuisine’ as a historical but constantly evolving socio-economic and cultural construct (a food tradition) within a more-or-less defined geographical area. It considers the significance of ‘food availability’ and the ways in which the ‘natural’ world is classified and categorized to define what is considered edible and what is not. It explains how food preparation and processing transforms an animal, fish or plant into a food stuff or ingredient and examines how food preparation, production (including cooking) and presentation may differ and may be associated with different styles of cuisine (high and low, complex and simple, etc.). It introduces a distinction between national, regional and local cuisines and briefly considers the treatment of ‘Indian’ cuisine.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v8i0.11518 The Third Pole: Journal of Geography Vol.8-10, pp. 62-72: 2010
Agriculture and Environment in the Eastern Nepal Himalayas
Authors: Rijal Shiba Prasad
Published: February 2015

Chapagain, Prem Sagar. 2009. Agriculture and Environment in the Eastern Nepal Himalayas, VDMVerlag Dr. Muller, Germany, pp 166 + viii, acknowledgements, tables, figures, pictures, diagrams,reference and annex, paperback, price not quoted.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v8i0.11519 The Third Pole: Journal of Geography Vol.8-10, pp. 73-74: 2010
Sexual Crimes, Medical Cures: The Development of a Therapeutic Approach toward Sexual Offenders in English Prisons, c.1900–1950
Authors: Weston Janet
Published: February 2015

This article traces the evolution of forensic psychiatry in England over the first half of the twentieth century, and the growing interest within this new field in sexual offenders. Taking as its focus the little-studied field of prison medicine, it explores the role of prison doctors in promoting the idea that crime was often indicative of psychological illness, and that sexual offenders in particular were profitable candidates for medical examination. Definitions of the sexual offence and the mentally disordered offender were profoundly influenced by underlying beliefs about what constituted both normal sexual behaviour for men, and normal criminal behaviour for women. Research into the treatment of sexual offenders was thus not only responding to new medical theories, but also reflecting broader social and penological change. Although prison doctors and forensic medicine remained marginal, this article highlights the durable connections between particular sexual crimes and mental disorder that were forged.
Humanitarian Action: The Joint Church Aid and Health Care Intervention in the Nigeria-Biafra War, 1967–1970
Authors: Omaka Arua Oko
Published: February 2015

International humanitarian aid played an important role in the Nigeria-Biafra War, 1967-70. Relief aid was organized under two major umbrella bodies — the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Joint Church Aid (JCA). The JCA received support from Catholic and Protestant churches while the ICRC, an established humanitarian agency, relied on donations from many governments as well as from the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). This paper focuses on the formation of the JCA as a humanitarian organization and examines its efforts to provide health care for the war victims in Biafra. Though the JCA has not received adequate scholarly attention, its humanitarian aid in Biafra was the first of its kind in the developing world and involved the largest civilian airlift in history. As this paper argues, the JCA’s health care intervention in Biafra was restricted to minimal care because of a lack of essential medications, equipment, food, and epidemiological expertise. Despite these challenges, however, the JCA managed to provide basic health care to over ten million persons in Biafra during the war. Further, the organization succeeded in providing aid without creating long-term dependency.
Econometric Analysis of Malnutrition Severity Among Under Five Children in Bangladesh
Authors: Kamal Khnd Md Mostafa , Islam Naimul
Published: February 2015

The nutritional status of under-five children is one of the sensitive indicators of a country's health status. This study investigated differential impact of some demographic, socioeconomic and health related factors on nutritional status among under-five children in Bangladesh based on Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2007 (BDHS 2007) data. The main contributing factors of malnutrition among under-five children is linked to the family's economic condition, parent's education, sources of drinking water, type of toilet facility, child's birth interval, child's birth order, mass media exposure, having diarrhoea or Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) recently, housing condition and place of residence. An ordered probit analysis of the effects of selected socioeconomic and demographic factors on malnutrition indicates that the strongest predictors of nutritional status of children in Bangladesh are gender of child, parent's education, family's economic condition and household standard of living. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujs.v62i1.21951 Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 62(1): 1-6, 2014 (January)
Design and Analysis of a Photonic Crystal Based Biosensor Working at THz Frequency Region
Authors: Ghosh Bratati , Rahman Shukufe , Habib Ahsan , Das Subrata
Published: February 2015

2D Photonic Crystal is investigated to find photonic band gap for the purpose of biosensing at THz frequency region. Several structures, one consisting of air holes in Si background and the others consisting of air holes filled with different analytes of having different Refractive Index (RI) in same Si background are considered. For each structure the change in photonic band gap due to the change in RI is observed and shown graphically. By comparing this plot with a standard chart of RI of different materials, any unknown biological analyte can be identified. Thus a biosensing method is developed by using the relationship between RI and band gap of photonic crystals. By comparing and calculating from the relationship; the maximum sensitivity of the developed biosensor is found to be 66.6%. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujs.v62i1.21952 Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 62(1): 7-9, 2014 (January)