bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why are Articles Retracted? A Systematic Analysis of the Reasons Behind Retraction from the ‘Retraction Watch’ Blog
Authors: Gewinner Jennifer , Andreas Diekmann , Rathmann Justus
Published: October 2022

As the number of retractions continues to rise, an analysis of the reasons behind them becomes more pressing. The unique dataset (n= 473 retracted articles) provided by the ‘Retraction Watch’ blog provides insight into the causes of such retractions and the underlying trends behind them. Results reveal that the reasons for retractions lead to significant variations in the time-to-retraction. Impact factor and single-authorship reduce time-to-retraction. Only 11.4% of retractions in the sample are determined to be caused by research error. The common overestimation of research error (or ‘honest error’) as a reason for retractions is due to the vagueness of retraction notices. This has implications for the integrity of science as well as research on retractions.
Poverty Reduction through Federal and State Policy Mechanisms: Variation Over Time and Across the U.S. States
Authors: Bruch Sarah K. , van der Naald Joseph , Gornick Janet C.
Published: October 2022

The efficacy of U.S. antipoverty policy is shaped both by its reliance on categorical sorting and by its decentralized structure. To examine the implications of these features, this study introduces a novel disaggregation of U.S. poverty reduction instruments into four mechanisms: taxes and transfers at the (centralized) federal level, and taxes and transfers at the (decentralized) state level. Using microdata from the Current Population Survey’s Annual Social and Economic Supplement, and a sequence-independent decomposition, this analysis assesses the relative effectiveness of the four mechanisms over time at the national level, between 1996 and 2016, and across the U.S. states in 2016. The study finds that absolute and relative poverty reduction is greater and has increased over time for working-age households with children compared to those without children, a difference rooted in the disparate structures of the programs that serve them. The study also finds substantial variation across the U.S. states in market and disposable income poverty, and in the poverty reduction attributable to each of the redistributive mechanisms, which highlights the importance of examining poverty and antipoverty policy subnationally. (Stone Center on Socio-Economic Inequality Working Paper)
Ten simple rules of socialtechnism
Authors: Adam Eve
Published: October 2022

The effects of anthropogenic climate change are devastating and therefore the priorities of economic development must change. Unfortunately, it is hard to envision a better future unless a global change happens. Here, we defend the urgency of this change and propose a new term: socialtechnism to design a political system for tomorrow based on ten simple rules or principles. Socialtechnism means the technique at the service of society and is a system purposed to maximize the welfare of all its citizens by means of an efficient administration. The aim is that giving a name could help channelling this change that humanity so desperately needs. A healthy society can only be envisioned in a healthy environment. The dangers of poverty and new crisis are not going to disappear unless we advocate for a change in the system based on a new citizen narrative, opposed to authoritarism and consumerism. A collaborative effort is thus required to articulate this change, and having a name may help. Ideally, proposing socialtechnism could ignite debates about what really needs a new system and the most difficult part: how it could be implemented.
catregs: An R Package for working with Regression Models of Categorical Outcomes
Authors: Melamed David
Published: October 2022

catregs is an R package with several useful functions for working with regressionmodels for categorical and limited dependent variables. A series of functions are described thatstreamline making design matrices for predicted values from models, and computing predictedvalues and estimates of uncertainty. Additional functions evaluate tests of the first and seconddifferences of predicted values (for assessing interaction effects), compares models for countdistributedresponses, computes Likelihood Ratio tests for comparing models, and summarizemodel output with additional useful information. This paper details the use of these functionsand illustrates their application with data that is included in the package.
MORTALITY FROM SARS-COV-2: DOES THE TYPE OF POLITICAL REGIME MATTER?
Authors: Mukhametov Ruslan
Published: October 2022

The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus caused the COVID-19 pandemic, which has become a global problem since the spring of 2020. Scientists have set a goal to determine the factors affecting its spread and mortality. Most of the works were devoted to the study of demographic, social and economic determinants. Little attention was paid to political factors. An analysis of the scientific literature shows that there is a theory of «effective autocracy» in the academic environment. The purpose of this article is to assess the effectiveness of political regimes (democracies and autocracies) in the fight against the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. To test the thesis of «effective autocracy», we collected data on 96 countries and built two regression models. As a result of the study, we came to the conclusion that the mortality rate from coronavirus is lower in autocracies than in democracies, which confirms the theory. Statistical calculations show that with an increase of 1 point in autocracies, mortality decreases by 0,28 people (per 1000 population). The article emphasizes that this is typical for the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. Calculations based on more recent data suggest that the mortality rate from coronavirus is lower in more democratic states in the medium term: with an increase in the number of democratic states by 1 point, mortality falls by 0,06 people (per 1000 population). The author notes that this is due to both a more developed health care system in more democratic countries and a purposeful policy of autocracies to underestimate statistical data on mortality from SARS-CoV-2. The author emphasizes that the type of political regime matters only in one third of cases.
BAD GOVERNANCE UNDER EXOGENOUS SHOCK: THE CASE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Gelman Vladimir
Published: October 2022

Although COVID-19 pandemic is far from its ending, and it is too early to draw even tentative conclusions regarding its effects, judging by excessive mortality of Russian citizens, one may argue that Russia responded to pandemic much worse than most of developed countries - by the end of 2021, the number of victims exceeded 1 million persons. This outcome resulted from numerous factors, including insufficient funding of public health and ineffectiveness of health policy in Russia during the entire post-Soviet period. However, pernicious effects of bad governance - a politico-economic order, which is aimed at rent-seeking as the major goal of governing Russia - played a major role in devastating outcomes of pandemic. Bad governance contributed to a poor quality of governance in Russia, according to evaluations of several international agencies. It emerged and consolidated in Russia in the early twenty-first century due to many actions of political leadership. Against this background, the pandemic became an exogenous shock, which aggravated numerous previous vices of bad governance in Russia. The article is focused on the impact of mechanisms of governing the Russian state, their incentives for various actors, and effects of political and policy decisions of Russian authorities from the viewpoint of consequences of pandemic for Russia and its citizens.
THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE STATE-CHURCH RELATIONS IN RUSSIA
Authors: Shcherbak Andrei , Ukhvatova Maria
Published: October 2022

A conservative turn in Russian politics has made the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) a key beneficiary of the new policy. Within the framework of Peter Berger's theory of desecularization, the ROC increased its influence through an alliance with the Kremlin. This made it possible to move smoothly from the model of «selective cooperation» to the model of «state religion», according to the classification of state-church relations proposed by Kristina Stoeckl. By early 2020, the ROC was perhaps at the height of its political influence. However, the COVID-19 pandemic seems to have paused the strong alliance of the Kremlin and the ROC. When the government announced lockdown measures and demanded that all churches cease services with the public, not all priests agreed to comply. The church-state crisis manifested in two divisions: between the Church and the state, between loyalists and fundamentalists within the ROC. We argue that although these cleavages posed a threat to the Patriarchate’s stability and power, the church leaders managed to maintain the loyalty of most believers. The authors show that the ROC proved its political loyalty to the Kremlin. Using individual-level data from the Values in Crisis project, the effect of religiosity on the support of government public health measures is explored. The findings reveal that higher religiosity is associated with higher levels of political loyalty. However, the COVID-19 crisis illustrates that the illusion of an equal partnership between the state and the church vanished.
THE ROLE OF ADVOCACY COALITIONS IN RUSSIA’S DEFENSE POLICIES: THE CASE OF SERDYUKOV REFORM
Authors: Shamiev Kirill
Published: October 2022

Between 2007 and 2012, the Russian armed forces went through unprecedented changes that affected all elements of the military organization. Despite political and financial support from the president and prime minister, the reformers could not meet all reform goals, and some changes were slowed down or backpaddled. The research uses data from 18 expert interviews, online media materials and employs the advocacy coalition framework to show that the Ministry of Defense has been unable to implement some changes because of the opposition within the military and presidential coalitions of civil-military relations. Interagency resistance forced the Ministry of Defense to abandon some of the changes. Some others were canceled after Minister Serdyukov’s ouster. This article demonstrates the strategies that the reformers used to pursue their goals and overcome the resistance from the reform opponents. The resistance eventually led to the defence minister's resignation, which halted further radical changes in the Russian armed forces. The results show that even the full political support from an authoritarian leader cannot save politicians and their programs from the influence of other actors. Dissatisfaction with the changes split the presidential coalition. It also damaged the interagency interaction, which ultimately weakened the managerial position of the reformer. Moreover, this case study showed that in civil-military relations, the conformity of the reformer’s behavior with the dominant military beliefs plays a major role alongside the factual component of reform.
LEFT AND RIGHT POPULISM IN SPAIN WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE PARTY SYSTEM TRANSFORMATION: VOX AND PODEMOS
Authors: Kolpakov Nikita
Published: October 2022

For many years, right-wing populism was considered irrelevant in Spain. The recent success of the Vox party, first at the regional and then at the national level, is clear evidence that the transformation of the Spanish party system continues. Moreover, right-wing and left-wing populism (represented respectively by the Vox and Podemos parties) coexist today in the context of its increasing fragmentation. The article attempts to answer the question why two types of populist parties emerged in Spain, what are the key differences between them and what place they occupy in the country's party system. The research intention involves identifying the main characteristics of right and left populism based on the analysis of the latest scientific literature and the subsequent assessment of the prospects of the Vox and Podemos parties. The factors of their electoral successes are determined; it is assumed that the territorial factor plays a special role in the differentiation of Spanish populism. The study uses the methods of comparative analysis and social constructivism, and populism itself is considered within the framework of an ideational approach. Based on the results of the study, the characteristics of left and right populism in Spain were determined on the example of the Vox and Podemos parties. It was concluded that the case of Spain is of particular interest in the European context, as it allows one to study the electoral successes and prospects of both left and right populists. The role of the territorial factor in delimiting left and right populism was emphasized.
RUSSIA AND THE POLITICAL ORDER IN A CHANGING WORLD: VALUES, INSTITUTIONS, PROSPECTS: RESULTS OF THE IX ALL-RUSSIAN CONGRESS OF POLITICAL SCIENTISTS, MOSCOW, DECEMBER 16-18, 2021
Authors: Gaman-Golutvina Oksana , Smorgunov Leonid , Timofeeva Lidia
Published: October 2022

The article presents the main results of the IX All-Russian Congress of Political Scientists, held in Moscow on December 16-18, 2021 under the auspices of the Russian Political Science Association, timed to coincide with the completion of the 65 th anniversary year since the founding of the RPSA. The largest political science event in Russia was held in a mixed (face-to-face and online) format, which made it possible to neutralize the negative consequences in the context of pandemic restrictions and ensure the scale of representation and the quality of the discussion platforms. An analysis of the course and results of the Congress demonstrated the growing role of political science in the process of forming a new political order in the modern world, including the characteristics of political regimes, governance principles, technologies and mechanisms, as well as the quality of public policy actors, means and methods for solving political problems, and the internal structure of political interactions. The article considers the possibilities of political science to shape the political world, responding to its problems and challenges.
Antibiotic profiling of Salmonella species isolated from Bagmati River, Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Kunwar Narayan , KC Manoj , Shrestha Rashika , Chaudhary Sushil , Shrestha Anima , Chhetri Bibek Rana
Published: October 2022

With rapid population growth, unmanaged urbanization, and industrialization, the holy river Bagmati, has become one of the most contaminated water sources in Kathmandu, Nepal. As a result, the river has lost its capacity for self-purification and became ideal habitat for many pathogenic microorganisms such as E. coli, Salmonella, Vibrio, etc. The study aimed to perform the antibiogram profile of Salmonella species. According to the findings, Salmonella was identified in excessively polluted areas with sewage. Out of total 55 samples, 34.45% were Salmonella positive among which, 10.5% were found to be S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi, and the remaining 79% were found to be other S. enterica serovar. S. enterica serovar was detected in abundance from site B1. Site B2 yielded Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi isolates. Furthermore, Salmonella Paratyphi was isolated from Site B3. The water samples from Site B6 were proven to be Salmonella-free. Antibiotic Susceptibility Test was performed for the positive samples and all the serovars were found sensitive to Amikacin whereas least sensitive to Ampicillin i.e., 86.67%, 100%, and 50% resistant in case of other S. enterica serovar, S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi respectively. All the Salmonella species isolates were sensitive to Ciprofloxacin, Streptomycin, Ofloxacin, and Nitrofurantoin but 100 % resistant to Ampicillin. However, there is not a single data reported as Multi-Drug Resistant Salmonella species in this study. The study emphasized the use of effective treatments against the disease and addresses the health danger to people, animals, and many other living species living nearby the river.
Effect of Pruning and Fertilizers on Growth, Flowering and Yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under Protected Structure in Panchthar, Nepal
Authors: Chapagain Upama , Bhandari Sujan , Shrestha Yogendra Man , Bista Sagar , Dahal Januka
Published: October 2022

A study was conducted to determine the effect of pruning practices and different fertilizer combinations on Bhaktapur local variety of cucumber under protected structure in Panchthar, Nepal during February to June 2021. The experiment was laid out in two factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Treatments used were two pruning practices (no pruning and 3G cutting) and four fertilizer doses (no fertilizer (control), 30 Mt/ha FYM+ 100% RDF (140:60:100 kg of NPK), 9.4 Mt/ha Vermicompost+ 100% RDF of NPK and 4.3 Mt/ha Poultry manure+ 100% RDF of NPK). Although 3G cutting practice increased the days required for 50 % flowering, it significantly decreased the male: female flowers ratio (1.69) compared to no pruning (4.38). Similarly, number of fruits per plant, individual fruit weight, fruit diameter and average fruit yield (95.21 Mt/ha) were maximum in 3G cutting. In terms of fertilizers, time requirement for 50% male flowering remained unaffected, however, plants treated with fertilizers 30 Mt/ha FYM+ 100% RDF of NPK showed significantly least days required for 50% female flowering, lowest male: female flowers ratio (2.41), maximum number of fruits per plant, maximum average individual fruit weight and highest average yield (105.78 Mt/ha) which are statistically at par with results of 9.4 Mt/ha vermicompost+ 100% RDF of NPK and 4.3 Mt/ha poultry manure+ 100% RDF of NPK for these parameters. The results concluded that combined application of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers in recommended dose with 3G pruning practices is best for growth and yield of cucumber.
Invitro Efficacy of Trichoderma Isolates and Commercial Fungicides against Exobasidium vexans, Causal Agent of Blister Blight in Tea
Authors: Adhikari Karun , Rai Ashis
Published: October 2022

Blister blight is one of the most significant foliar fungal diseases of tea plant caused by Exobasidium vexans. An invitro experimentation on efficacy of biofungicides and chemical fungicides was carried out at Agriculture Research Station, Pakhribas from November 2020 to January 2021 to evaluate and analyze effectivity of two Trichoderma spp and five commonly used chemical fungicides against Blister Blight pathogen. Isolates of Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma harzianum were tested against E. vexans using dual culture technique. Five Chemical fungicides namely Copper oxychloride 50WP, Hexaconazole 5% EC, Metalaxyl 8% WP+ Mancozeb 64% WP, Carbendazim 50% WP, Carboxin 37.5% WS + Thiram 37.5% WS were tested at four different concentrations viz. 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 200 ppm and 500 ppm using poisoned food technique. The experiment was carried out in completely randomized design with three replications for each treatment. Both Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma harzianum demonstrated significant effect on mycelial growth reduction of E. vexans. Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma harzianum exhibited 70.87% and 66.98% inhibition in growth of E. vexans respectively. Similarly, Hexaconazole, Carbendazim, Carboxin + Thiram provided complete (100%) inhibition on pathogen growth regardless of concentration. Least inhibition (36%) on pathogen growth was recorded at 50 ppm of Copper Oxychloride. All chemical fungicides provided significant difference on reducing growth of pathogen in comparison to control at all concentration. It is recommended that Trichoderma spp be taken as a priority regarding its environmental benefit and furthermore if application of chemical fungicides is necessitated, rationalized use be done at lower dose and with appropriate timing.
Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Vegetables from Contaminated Agricultural Soils of Madhyapur Thimi, Bhaktapur District, Nepal and their Potential Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Sharma Anuska , Adhikari Bijaya , Shrestha Mahesh , Raj Pant Dipesh , Devi Shakya Bindra , Ram Pradhananga Achut , Shakya Sudarshana , Raj Shakya Pawan
Published: October 2022

The present study aimed to determine Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn concentrations using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS) in five vegetables viz., Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Mustard (Brassica campestris), Radish (Raphanus sativus), Spinach (Spinacea oleracea) and Chinese spinach (Amaranthus dubius), and their growing soils in three agricultural sites (Manohara, Bode, and Nagadesh) of Madhyapur Thimi, Bhaktapur district and to assess health risks using USEPA deterministic approaches. The average concentrations of HMs in soils were 0.85, 30.65, 40.06, 47.42, and 129.55 mg/kg for Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn respectively, exceeding the normal soil quality standards except Cr. Similarly, the average concentrations of HMs in vegetables were 0.42, 6.63, 22.33, 1.34, and 77.16 mg/kg for Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn respectively exceeding joint FAO/WHO standards except for Cu. The I-geo values revealed a class of unpolluted to moderately polluted levels for the agricultural soils indicating the 1st degree of soil pollution. Among the vegetables, Chinese spinach measured considerably high transfer factor (TF) for Cd (0.79), Cr (0.34), Cu (0.76), Pb (0.04), and Zn (0.89) indicating health concerns to the consumers. The hazard index (HI) for these HMs was found less than the acceptable limit (1.0) indicating no non-carcinogenic risk to adults through vegetable consumption. However, the lifetime carcinogenic risk (LCR) parameter indicated low to high cancer risk for Cd, Cr, and Pb. Among the vegetables, Chinese spinach estimated the highest LCR values for the HMs suggesting regular monitoring of HMs in soil and vegetable on account of their toxic effects.
Assessment of Bird Diversity and Abundance in Karra River Basin, Hetauda, Makawanpur
Authors: Parajuli Kanchan
Published: October 2022

The main objective to carry out this study was to determine seasonal diversity, abundance, and ongoing threats to birds of the Karra river belt, Hetauda, Nepal. This study is based on observation. The bird survey methods and threat assessment techniques were used to analyse the data. A total of 153 bird species were recorded belonging to 15 orders and 38 families. Order Passeriformes was found dominating order with 70 species. Among 153 species, 98 species were residents, 37 species were winter visitors, 17 species were summer visitors, and one species was found, vagrant. One-way ANOVA revealed that there was a significantly different (F = 0.8872, df= 2, P < 0.0422) in bird diversity in three different blocks in two different seasons. The Shannon winner diversity index shows that the winter season (H=1.86) was more diverse than the summer season (H=1.62). The evenness index showed that birds were evenly distributed in the winter season (E=0.8815) and then summer (E=0.8761). Bird species richness was found high (126) in moderately disturbed land use type (block 2) than other supporting intermediate disturbance hypotheses. Out of 153 birds recorded, 26 were common in their relative abundance. Habitat destruction, pollutionin the industrial belt, mining, overfishing, poaching, and keeping of cage birds, and lack of awareness were the major threats to birds around the study area.
Observing Family: A Technique to Teach Organizational Behavior Practically During Pandemic
Authors: Adhikari Pralhad
Published: October 2022

Organizational Behaviour truly depends on the family legacy and the environment provided. This study aims to explore the connection of the students’ organizational behavior during the pandemeic. A qualitative research was conducted using exploratory design. The archival and diary method of data collection was implied. The secondary data of assignments submitted by the students of BHM from a college in Kathmandu were used. The students submitted their diaries after observing their families for two weeks and recording the observed activities once every two days. The data were analyzed using a content analysis approach. The students presented interesting examples for various OB concepts like perception, attitude, motivation, satisfaction, conflict, and change. The study justifies that the students in family can better foster their organizational behavior than the learning of the theoretical content at college.
Issues of Religion in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Rishiram
Published: October 2022

Religion is one of the identities markers of the nation. In republic Nepal, the issue of religion appears as political and cultural agenda for both political and religious leaders. In this context, the paper examines focuses on the historical landmarks of debate on religions in Nepal and how different constitutions address the religious issues and why they are becoming emerging issues in Nepal. Qualitative research designwas used and only secondary sources of data were applied for this study. Conclusion of the studyis based on data interpretation and analysis. In the past, religion was used as atool to gain political powerthat has still being continuedbecause some of the political party 'leaders still use religion as a tool of collecting votes from the public.
Contribution of Japanese Aid to the Development Process of Nepal
Authors: Dhakal Chandra Prasad
Published: October 2022

Japan is one of the developed nations of the world. It has provided various supports to the developing and under developed nations. Nepal established a friendship relationship with Japan in 1965. Since the time of friendship establishment, Japan has been playing a major role in the development process of Nepal. Loan assistance, technical supports, and grand assistance are provided by Japan to Nepal. Japanese aid is increasing in trend; however, the sector is changing on the basis of the priority of Nepal government. Japanese aid is basically used in human development and infra structure development. The result of the Japanese aid is effective in grass root level. The priority of the aid has brought positive changes in community. The study followed the mixed method and analyzed the collected data by through qualitative and quantitative research design. Numerical data were projected in table and figure other information mentioned through paragraph description. On the basis of data analysis and discussion, conclusion has been made. The portion of Japanese aid is high and the utilization ofthe aid has brought a positive impact on both human development and infrastructure development in Nepal.
Factors Affecting Road Traffic Accidents in the Kathmandu valley
Authors: Manandhar Raju Bhai
Published: October 2022

Road traffic accidentis defined as an accident which takes place on the road between two or more objects, in which one is any kind of moving vehicle and the other a human being. The major objective of the study is to determine the factors affecting the road accident in Nepal. Respondents were targeted drivers of two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles. 98 respondents were selected through convenience sample technique. Quantitative data as nature and primary data as sources of information were considered for the study. Primary data were collected and analyzed in systematic way to derive the findings. A well-structured survey questionnaire was administered to collect the data. In this study, data were analyzed using mean, median, mode, standard deviation, variance and trend analysis. Based on the Likert scale question, poor road condition was considered as the first important cause, drunk driving was considered as the second important cause, and over speed was considered as the third important cause influencing the road accident in the Kathmandu valley.
Thematic Analysis of Laxmi Prasad Devkota’s Poem “The Lunatic”
Authors: Sharma Lok Raj
Published: October 2022

A literary text can be analyzed through numerous perspectives, and a thematic analysis stands as one of the perennial perspectivespractised in analyzing poetry. This perspective embraces a qualitative research method that is used for exploring and interpreting patterned meaning across datasets. This article makes an effort to explore pertinent themes in Devkota’s tough philosophical poem “The Lunatic”. This articlewriter employs an inductive approach to analyze the poem. The inductive approach involves deriving meaning and creating themes from data without any preconceptions. This article, which makes use of words, phrases and verse lines mustered from the poem as qualitative datasets, winds up with the rebellion against inhumanity as one of the most prominent themes of the poem. This article will be utterly significant to the teachers and the students of literature.
A Review of Policies and Institutions for Landslide Risk Management in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Basanta Raj , Gautam Suraj
Published: October 2022

Nepal has been experiencing different kinds of natural hazards in recent decades due to its unique topographic and climatic diversities. Earthquakes, landslides, floods, lightning, fire, cold and heat wave are major hazards. Among them, the landslide is one of the major natural hazards, and the occurrence of landslides is due to active tectonics and the Asian monsoon. The Spatio-temporal distribution of landslides in Nepal suggests that fatal landslides had an average of 113 death per year from 1971-2021. Moreover, Sindhupalchowk, Gorkha and Syangja had the highest number of fatal landslides. A proper landslide risk management policy should be implemented to reduce lives and properties. Landslide risk reduction is always challenging because it needs strong political determination, appropriate plans and policies, and good governance. This study reviewed the government's different plans, policies, acts and available literature to understand the status of landslide risk management in Nepal. Key informant interviews were conducted among stakeholders to understand how landslide risks are managed. The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act (DRRM), 2017, has considered the evidence-based decision-making processes instrumental in the paradigm shift from response-centric to anticipative and prevention-based approaches. Similarly, the Local Government Operation Act, 2017 has authorised and mandated the local government to undertake various functions for Disaster Risk Reduction. It is found that most of the plans and policies have not addressed landslides as an independent entity. Most existing documents have included disaster risk reduction but failed to identify the key issues of landslide risk reduction in Nepal. Therefore, this paper reviewed the current plans and policies and suggested recommendations for landslide risk management in Nepal.
Minimizing surface run-off, improving underground water recharging, and on-site rain harvesting in the Kathmandu valley
Authors: Bhattarai Keshav , Adhikari Ambika P.
Published: October 2022

Nepal’s political institutions and administrative units were thoroughly restructured in 2015 with the promulgation of the new Constitution. Several rural areas were combined to meet the definition of urban threshold criteria to classify rural areas into urban categories. Accordingly, over 3,900 local political and administrative units were amalgamated into 753 units, of which, 293 units are classified as urban. Within these newly defined urban areas, many natural environments have been converted into impervious surfaces such as paved roads, sidewalks, and building roofs. These impervious surfaces have drastically increased the amount of surface run-offs—often termed as “urban floods” --under increasing precipitation caused by global climate change. These incidences have negatively impacted to the groundwater recharge processes in the urban areas.

Data on groundwater recharge rates are needed in the context of global climate change to understand the status of groundwater recharge processes in the urban areas of Nepal. However, due to various limitations, this study only focuses around the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal to understand: a) how the expansion of urban, peri-urban, and associated areas have resulted in decreasing groundwater recharges; b) how groundwater is affected by the year-to-year variability of precipitation amount (low and high intensity) with the conversion of the natural landscape into built-up areas; and c) how the changing trends in precipitation and evapotranspiration may impact future groundwater availability. This study is based on a review of the literature and the analysis of secondary data available from the government and various social media and authors' professional experiences. The study ends with some recommendations based on experiences from other parts of the world on groundwater recharge processes.
Challenging the Journalistic Ideal of Objectivity in Reporting Vaccination
Authors: Wan Mohd Ghazali Wan Norshira , Mohamed Shafizan , Yusoh Mohd Helmi
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: The resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases such as polio, diphtheria, measles, mumps, among others demonstrate the anti-vaccine movement's growing popularity and efficacy in spreading its views. To overcome the vaccine fallacies that are now prevalent, effective news media coverage on vaccination that emphasises the urgency and necessity of vaccination to the public is required. To determine whether such emphasis is made in the mainstream media, this study analysed vaccine coverage in two English newspapers in Malaysia, The Star and the New Straits Times (NST). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Framing analysis was performed on a total of 308 vaccine-related news items gathered over 14 months, from January 2019 to March 2020. RESULTS: Both publications used almost similar patterns in reporting vaccine-related issues. They relied heavily on official or government institutions as sources of information with high emphasis given on creating awareness and providing information about vaccines. In broad, vaccination is primarily covered as news to be reported, rather than a problem to be highlighted and further explored in-depth. CONCLUSION: Considering contemporary health realities, newspapers must play a persuasive and consistent role in publicising the necessity of immunisation.
Nutritional Status of Under-Five Children and The Relationship with Household Food Wastage and Food Security in Samarahan, Malaysia
Authors: Gahamat Mohd Faiz , Rahman Md Mizanur , Daud Muhammad Siddiq
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Malnutrition is prevalent among children in developing countries. The cause of malnutrition, although complex, can be attributed to demographic factors, household food wastage, and food insecurity. This study aims to determine the under-five nutritional status of children and its association with household food wastage and food security in the Samarahan division in Sarawak, Malaysia. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study involving 304 children from rural areas of Asajaya and Samarahan District using a random sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from the parents. The nutritional status of the children was assessed by anthropometry. IBM SPSS Version 27.0 and WHO Anthro version 3.2.2 were used for data analysis. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Analysis revealed that 9.5% of the children were moderately wasted, followed by 5.9% who were severely wasted; 20.4% were moderately stunted and 8.9% were severely stunted. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that male gender (AOR = 1.931, 95% CI: 1.139, 3.274; p<0.05), low birth weight (AOR =2.645, 95% CI: 1.245, 5.618, p<0.05), poor appetite (AOR = 2.547; 95% CI: 1.298, 4.995, p<0.05), and preventive attitude (AOR = 0.460, 95% CI: 0.227, 0.929, p < 0.05) of household food wastage appeared to be significant predictors of nutritional status. However, household food insecurity had a negative correlation but did not significantly impact the nutritional status. Conclusion: Under-five malnutrition was prevalent in the study area and still a public health concern. Although the study did not find any significant association between household food wastage and food security towards the nutritional status of children, addressing the nutritional problem warranted an appropriate Public Health approach for the specific group, especially the modifiable risk factors such as birth weights, appetite, and attitude.
Stigma and Depression among Tuberculosis Patients in Kedah, Malaysia
Authors: Zakaria Rosnani , Amri Nur Syafiqa , Mohamad Noraini
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: Tuberculosis (TB) related stigma is one of the significant barriers in the global TB control programme and it may lead to depression. This study aims to assess the level of stigma among TB patients and its associated factors, as well as to ascertain the correlation between stigma and depression in Kedah, Malaysia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study using the proportionate sampling method. TB patients were recruited from respiratory clinics in three government hospitals in Kedah. Case report form, Malay version of TB stigma scale (TSS) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-Malay) were used for data collection. Data were then analyzed using the linear regression and correlation analysis. RESULTS: A total of 200 respondents were enrolled and the mean score of TB stigma from patient’s perspective was 13.3 (6.87). Younger patient, currently married, higher education, unemployment, and HIV co-infection were significantly associated with the stigma experienced. 27.5% (n=55) of the TB patients were found to be depressed, with the majority categorized into mild severity (20%, n=40), followed by moderate (5.5%, n = 11) and severe depression (2%; n = 4). There was a moderate, positive correlation between stigma and depression which was statistically significant (r = 0.345, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Although the stigma score among TB patients was not as high as has been postulated, there was a moderate, positive correlation between stigma and depression. Thus, the intervention to reduce the stigma among TB patients may be helpful as it may reduce the depression level.
Oxidative Stress Induces Endothelial Dysfunction and Endothelial Cell Damage in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep Deprivation Animal Model
Authors: Noordin Liza , Nawi Afifah , Mat Zin Anani Aila , Wan Ahmad Wan Amir Nizam
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation causes oxidative stress, leading to endothelial dysfunction, a predictor of cardiovascular disease. It is still unclear what causes endothelial dysfunction in patients with sleep disorder. This study evaluates the effects of REM sleep deprivation on the endothelium in the rat model of REM sleep deprivation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sprague-Dawley male rats (N=28) were divided into four groups (n=7); (1) free-moving control (FMC), (2) REM sleep deprivation (REMsd), (3) tank control (TC), and (4) sleep recovery (SR). The inverted flowerpot technique was utilised to develop REM sleep deprivation. Bodyweight gain (BWg), food consumption (Fc), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were evaluated. The descending thoracic aorta was isolated to assess oxidative stress markers, in vitro functional study, and histomorphological examination. RESULTS: REM sleep deprivation showed a decrease in BWg significantly despite a significant increase in Fc, increased SBP, increased oxidative stress markers, caused endothelial dysfunction and endothelial cell damage. In REM sleep-deprived rats, there was a significant reduction in antioxidant markers, including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), while the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly increased. The REM sleep-deprived rats displayed altered vascular function, including impaired vasorelaxation and hypercontractility. Histomorphology of the endothelium in REM sleep-deprived rats revealed features of endothelial damage. CONCLUSION: REM sleep deprivation is suggested to be linked to endothelial dysfunction due to endothelial damage. These changes are proposed to result from increased oxidative stress. Sleep recovery reduced the harmful effects following REM sleep deprivation.
In Vitro Study on Collagen Application in Wound Healing: A Systematic Review
Authors: Amid Azura , Salleh Faqihah , Nordin Noor Faizul Hadry
Published: October 2022

Collagen is key component of extracellular matrix for human and animals. It can be extracted and applied for various field especially in tissue engineering as main component for wound healing. Collagen especially type I collagen is used in skin regeneration process due to its high compatibility with donor site and low antigenicity besides of having suitable properties for wound healing like high cell proliferation and adhesion. However, the usage of collagen alone would not give maximum wound healing since collagen degrades faster, has poor structure for a scaffold and attracts bacteria due to high moisture content. Therefore, to produce a good collagen scaffold, it must be incorporated with functional biomaterials to enhance the characteristic of the collagen and fabricated for a better scaffold structure. The objective of this systematic review is to summarize the relevant literature for in vitro study on collagen application in wound healing by focusing on the source of collagen, biomaterials and fabrication methods used in making collagen scaffold. Three databases were searched; PubMed, Scopus and Science Direct. Keywords used were: collagen, recombinant collagen, collagen scaffold, application and wound healing. A total of 1105 were articles screened but only 50 articles were suitable and were further reviewed. Collagen in wound healing study has versatility in terms of the source of collagen used, the biomaterials combined with the collagen to make an enhanced scaffold, and the fabrication methods to create a desirable structure of collagen scaffold.
Tualang Honey Supplementation Alleviates Obesity and Dyslipidaemia in High Cholesterol Diet Induced Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis Animal Model
Authors: Alias Mohd Afzal , Abdul Rahim Roslina , Muhamad Siti Aesah @ Naznin , Abdullah Nor Zamzila , A Talib Norlelawati , Ahmad Affandi Khairunisa
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: Dyslipidaemia and obesity are two main features of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). This study aimed to investigate the effects of Tualang honey (TH) supplementation on bodyweight, liver weight, and lipid profiles in high cholesterol diet (HCD) induced NASH animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixteen Sprague-Dawley rats were given 12% HCD for 16 weeks to induce NASH. These animals were divided into 4 groups; Group 1 (continued HCD), Group 2 (changed to normal diet), Group 3 (normal diet and TH 1.2g/kg) and Group 4 (normal diet and TH 3.0g/kg) for the following 4 weeks. Bodyweight was measured daily. At the end of the study, blood was collected via retro-orbital bleeding and the rats were sacrificed to harvest their liver. RESULTS: The group 4 rats had significantly lower mean final bodyweight than rats in group 1, 2 and 3 (478.0±24.4 vs. 641.5±25.1, 593.8 ±29.3, 552.0±72.9 g, p<0.05). Animals in group 4 were also found to have a significantly lower mean liver weight compared to groups 1 and 2 (12.9±0.9 vs 20.1±2.2, 15.7±1.2 g, p<0.05). In comparison to controls, the mean concentration of total cholesterol was significantly lower in all the other groups and the lowest mean concentration of triglycerides was recorded in group 4 with significant difference when compared to the controls (0.9±0.4 vs 3.6±0.4 mmol/L, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The change from HCD to a normal diet coupled with TH supplementation has been shown to reduce bodyweight, liver weight, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the 12% HCD NASH induced animal models.
Knowledge in Dealing with The COVID-19 Based on The Guidance of Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah: A Cross-Sectional Survey Among The Pharmacy and Health Sciences Diploma Students in Malaysia
Authors: Che Lamin Roz Azinur , Wong Yuet Yen , Mohd Zahid Emie Sylviana , Che Saad Muhammad
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: Medicine and communicable disease control are embedded in many Islamic teachings as conveyed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the Al-Quran, Al-sunnah, and Al-hadith more than 1400 years ago. Therefore, when the COVID-19 outbreak hits Malaysia, with the majority of the population being Muslims, the society should be equipped with knowledge in dealing with this pandemic. This study investigates the knowledge towards dealing with COVID-19 based on the guidance of Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) among undergraduate students in Malaysia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study using self-constructed questionnaires was performed. The questionnaires were pre-validated and distributed to pharmacy and health sciences students via an online survey platform. One of the selection criteria was that the respondent must be a Muslim. RESULTS: The students scored a median of 26 (IQR 4) in the knowledge test. Students’ percentage knowledge levels were divided into three categories: poor (n = 42, 15%); moderate (n = 207, 73%) and good (n = 33, 12%). The lowest scored knowledge item was observed on the Islamic terminology, Maqasid Shariah (4.3%), and differences between hadith and sunnah (20.9%). No significant differences in knowledge scores were observed in the pre-determined independent variables such as age, year of study, accommodation, and previous religious school admission. CONCLUSION: The study findings suggest that the students have a good understanding of scientific aspects of COVID-19 but lack knowledge in handling the pandemic as recommended by Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah.
Effect of fiber type and thickness on mechanical behavior of thermoplastic composite plates reinforced with fabric plies
Authors: Öztekin Hilal Filiz , Gür Mustafa , Erdem Serkan , Kaman Mete Onur
Published: October 2022

Studies on weight reduction in aviation and space vehicles have gained momentum recently. Thermoplastic matrix composite materials are important alternative materials, especially due to their high specific strength, formability and recyclability. In this study, it is aimed to investigate the mechanical behavior of fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites for different fiber and layer configurations. Thermoplastic composite materials used in the study were produced by lamination technique. In composite production; Glass fiber and carbon-aramid hybrid fabrics were used as fiber, and polyethylene granules were used as matrix. Thermoplastic sheets were obtained by keeping polyethylene granules and woven fibers in the hot press for a certain period of time. The damage behavior of the composite test specimens under tensile load was tested for the number of layers and fiber type. As the number of layers increased, stiffness, damage load and deformations increased in thermoplastic composites. Using hybrid fabric instead of glass as fiber material increased the maximum damage load by 100%.
Aggregation of Nematode, Hysterothylacium aduncum in whiting, Merlangius merlangus
Authors: Yavuzcan Hijran , Demir Mehmet Can , Seçer Faik Sertel
Published: October 2022

Although aggregation of macroparasites characterized by unequal distribution of parasites on the host is a known axiom in marine fishes, aggregation of nematode, Hysterothylacium aduncum was not previously studied in whiting, Merlangius merlangus. Here, we investigated the host-related (fish condition factor) and parasite-related factors (parasite load) as well as the distribution pattern of H. aduncum in whiting to determine whether aggregation existed or not. The distribution of H. aduncum (third larval stage) in whiting has been shown to be aggregated. Aggregation of H. aduncum was assessed by Weibull distribution. The aggregation degree of nematode, H. aduncum in whiting was changed by the individual fish. The observed pattern of parasite distribution by the individual fish enabled the recognition of aggregation for the first time in whiting. The prediction of the intensity of H. aduncum in whiting improved the understanding of the host-parasite system, particularly for the dynamics of the parasite.