bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adubação nitrogenada na produtividade, leitura SPAD e teor de nitrogênio em folhas de feijoeiro
Authors: Sant'Ana Edvaldo Vieira Pacheco , Santos Alberto Baêta dos , Silveira Pedro Marques da
Published: October 2014

A carência de nitrogênio é um dos fatores mais limitantes à produtividade de grãos de feijão. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos de doses de nitrogênio aplicadas em cobertura sobre o teor relativo de clorofila (TRC - leitura SPAD), teor de nitrogênio nas folhas (TNF) e produtividade de grãos da cultivar BRS horizonte de feijoeiro. O experimento foi conduzido na Embrapa Arroz e Feijão, em Santo Antônio de Goiás (GO), em Latossolo Vermelho distrófico. Foi utilizado delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições e cinco doses de nitrogênio (0 kg ha-1, 30 kg ha-1, 60 kg ha-1, 120 kg ha-1 e 240 kg ha-1), aplicadas metade aos dez dias após a emergência (DAE) e a outra metade aos 17 DAE, na forma de ureia. A produtividade de grãos e o TRC apresentaram respostas quadráticas às doses de N e o TNF aumentou linearmente. O TRC aumentou com a idade das plantas, enquanto o TNF diminuiu, e ambos os teores foram associados à produtividade de grãos. As leituras efetuadas com clorofilômetro estimaram adequadamente o TRC e podem substituir a determinação do TNF, para diagnóstico do nível deste nutriente no feijoeiro.
Plant stimulant effect on Brasil-Bahia tobacco growth and production
Authors: Vieira Elvis Lima , Almeida Adriana Queiroz de
Published: October 2014

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of the Stimulate® plant stimulant, applied to leaves by spraying, on tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) growth and production. The Brasil-Bahia tobacco and Stimulate®, at the doses of 0.0 mL L-1 (control - water); 1.0 mL L-1; 3.0 mL L-1; 5.0 mL L-1; and 11.0 mL L-1, in watery solution, were used. On the fifteenth day after sowing (DAS), the treatments were applied. A total of six sprayings were made, once a day, each five days. After forty-three DAS, the number of leaves; stem and root length; stem, roots, and leaves dry matter; and leaf area were evaluated, under nursery conditions. In the field, the plants remained for 64 days (107 DAS) and the number of leaves; number of viable leaves; plant height; stem and leaves dry matter; and leaf area were evaluated. Stimulate®, under nursery conditions, decreased stem, root and leaf dry matter and leaf area for tobacco. Stimulate® was also efficient to increase the number of leaves and stem length, under nursery conditions, for the Brasil-Bahia tobacco. Under field conditions, Stimulate®, applied during the vegetative stage, was not efficient to increase leaf production, however, it increased stem height and dry matter.
Neem oil antifeedant and insecticidal effects on Oebalus poecilus (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) males and females
Authors: Pinheiro Patricia Valle , Quintela Eliane Dias
Published: October 2014

The antifeedant and insecticidal effects of two commercial neem (Azadirachta indica) oil formulations (Dalneem and Nim-I-Go) to Oebalus poecilus were evaluated on irrigated rice. To evaluate the antifeedant effect, both formulations were tested at 1% and 2% (v/v) concentration levels. The insecticidal effect was evaluated at 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% (v/v) concentrations of Dalneem, by ingestion. Both experiments were conducted with four replications by treatment, containing one panicle and adult insects segregated by gender (two insects per plot for the antifeedant effect and five for the insecticidal effect). Both products were efficient, reducing the damage caused by insects. Insects fed less on the panicles treated with neem oil, causing lower number of feeding sheaths per panicle and lower percentage of damaged grains than the control. Spikelets weight was higher in panicles treated with neem oils. Females caused significantly higher damage than males in controls, for numbers of feeding sheaths and for the feeding deterrence index. Only at the 4% (v/v) concentration level, Dalneem caused adult mortality higher than in the control. Results showed that neem oil formulations, at > 1% (v/v) concentration, can be used to reduce the quantitative and qualitative damages caused by O. poecilus in lowland rice.
Making photonic structures via cell culture: Morpho butterfly scales
Authors: Parker Andrew Richard , Townley Helen Elizabeth
Published: October 2014

The photonic structures that cause the electric blue colour of some Morpho butterflies are desirable within industry. They have been reproduced on very small areas to produce prototype biomimetic structures, yet there is currently no technique to accurately manufacture these structures at a commercial level. Here, tissue and cell culture techniques are explored as a possible method of producing large quantities of the blue scales of Morpho peliedes. This represents the first attempt to culture the wing scales of a Morpho butterfly, and many problems were encountered. These could be remedied in future studies, but it is concluded that cell culture is probably not a viable technique to provide the Morpho structure for industry in the near future. However, tissue culture experiments revealed important results of scale development.
Adult Attachment Orientations and Subjective Well-Being: Emotional Intelligence and Self-Esteem as Moderators
Authors: Li Xu , Zheng Xue
Published: October 2014

We examined emotional intelligence (EI) and self-esteem as mediators of the relationship between adult attachment orientations and subjective well-being (SWB). A total of 585 undergraduates from 2 Chinese universities completed measures of the 4 variables. Bootstrap mediation analysis
revealed that both EI and self-esteem acted as mediators of the relationship. In addition, a serial mediating role of EI via self-esteem was found. The findings are consistent with predictions derived from attachment theory, and expand on a growing body of research findings on the association
between adult attachment orientations and SWB. Implications of the findings and limitations in the study are discussed.
Comparison of the Short-Term Outcomes Between Trigger Point Dry Needling and Trigger Point Manual Therapy for the Management of Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Llamas-Ramos Rocio , Pecos-Martín Daniel , Gallego-Izquierdo Tomás , Llamas-Ramos Inés , Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , Ortega-Santiago Ricardo , Cleland Joshua , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César
Published: October 2014

Study Design

Randomized clinical study.

Objectives

To compare the effects of trigger point (TrP) dry needling (DN) and TrP manual therapy (MT) on pain, function, pressure pain sensitivity, and cervical range of motion in subjects with chronic mechanical neck pain.

Background

Recent evidence suggests that TrP DN could be effective in the treatment of neck pain. However, no studies have directly compared the outcomes of TrP DN and TrP MT in this population.

Methods

Ninety-four patients (mean ± SD age, 31 ± 3 years; 66% female) were randomized into a TrP DN group (n = 47) or a TrP MT group (n = 47). Neck pain intensity (11-point numeric pain rating scale), cervical range of motion, and pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) over the spinous process of C7 were measured at baseline, postintervention, and at follow-ups of 1 week and 2 weeks after treatment. The Spanish version of the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire was used to measure disability/function at baseline and the 2-week follow-up. Mixed-model, repeated-measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were used to determine if a time-by-group interaction existed on the effects of the treatment on each outcome variable, with time as the within-subject variable and group as the between-subject variable.

Results

The ANOVA revealed that participants who received TrP DN had outcomes similar to those who received TrP MT in terms of pain, function, and cervical range of motion. The 4-by-2 mixed-model ANOVA also revealed a significant time-by-group interaction (P<.001) for PPT: patients who received TrP DN experienced a greater increase in PPT (decreased pressure sensitivity) than those who received TrP MT at all follow-up periods (between-group differences: posttreatment, 59.0 kPa; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 40.0, 69.2; 1-week follow-up, 69.2 kPa; 95% CI: 49.5, 79.1; 2-week follow-up, 78.9 kPa; 95% CI: 49.5, 89.0).

Conclusion

The results of this clinical trial suggest that 2 sessions of TrP DN and TrP MT resulted in similar outcomes in terms of pain, disability, and cervical range of motion. Those in the TrP DN group experienced greater improvements in PPT over the cervical spine. Future trials are needed to examine the effects of TrP DN and TrP MT over long-term follow-up periods.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(11):852–861. Epub 30 September 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.5229
Error correction of a phase-only computer-generated hologram for an aspheric surface
Authors: Zhang H. , Yan Y. , Zhou H. , Qiao Y. J. , Si J. , Wang D.
Published: October 2014

When applying phase-only computer-generated hologram (CGH) as a standard model of optical measurement in computer-generated holography for aspheric surface testing, it has the advantage of simplifying optical path configuration and improving the diffraction efficiency of the incoming light. However, errors always exists during the encoding process of fabricating multiphase level CGHs and this kind of errors will be amplified level by level in the measurement. According to the analysis of the encoding error, the error of CGH increases linearly when its quantified period increases. For example, if the quantified period is 32, the maximum of encoding error is 16.46 which can lead wave-front aberration 0.085λ of a secondary parabolic surface with 512×512 sampling pixels. In this article, an optimization method based on deviation of minimum boundary value has been used to eliminate the encoding error of CGH. In the experiment, we use a liquid crystal spatial light modulator to generate CGHs and measure residuals of reconstructed wave-front of a secondary parabolic surface. The measurement results show that average decrease of the RMS values of the residuals is 0.07 when their periods range from 3 to 6, which indicates the optimization method is effective.
Composition, Context, and Endogeneity in School and Teacher Comparisons
Authors: Castellano Katherine E. , Rabe-Hesketh Sophia , Skrondal Anders
Published: October 2014

Investigations of the effects of schools (or teachers) on student achievement focus on either (1) individual school effects, such as value-added analyses, or (2) school-type effects, such as comparisons of charter and public schools. Controlling for school composition by including student covariates is critical for valid estimation of either kind of school effect. Student covariates often have different effects between schools than within schools. Econometricians typically attribute such differences to a form of endogeneity, specifically, “Level-2 endogeneity,” or the confounding of student covariates with unobserved school characteristics, whereas education researchers primarily interpret the differences as contextual effects or the effects of collective peer attributes on individual student achievement. This article considers both and makes connections between the econometric and education research literatures. We show that the Hausman and Taylor approach from panel data econometrics can be used for valid estimation of individual school or school-type effects when there is only Level-2 endogeneity but can lead to bias when there are also contextual or peer effects. In contrast, contextual effects are typically estimated by including school means of student covariates in addition to the student-level covariates (equivalent to the Mundlak device), but this leads to biased school comparisons in the presence of Level-2 endogeneity. We interpret the estimates from these two competing estimators in terms of the “Type A” and “Type B” school effects defined by Raudenbush and Willms and show that both estimators are preferable to the common group-mean-centering approach.
Replacement of Saturated Animal Fats in Meat Products: A Review
Authors: Halwai Anup
Published: October 2014

Meat is still the most valuable food in the world. The quality aspect of meat is decided by the nutritional and sensory values. Consumers. awareness on diet and health increased the demand for healthy food, specially, meat. Meat is high in saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). SFA are found to elevate cholesterol which is associated with cardiovascular diseases and other chronic diseases. Replacing or reducing animal fat in meat products could create a better image for the industry, but, sensory quality as well as product stability could be affected. Animal fat can be replaced or reduced by adding more water in the product or by substituting with vegetable fats and/or oils, or by adding hydrocolloids like dextrins, starches, fibers, gums in the product. Marine oils and vegetable oils are used to replace animal fat in meat product but the technological procedures have to be adjusted to produce the similar product due to their different chemical characteristics from animal fats. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jfstn.v7i0.10561 J. Food Sci. Technol. Nepal, Vol. 7 (9-13), 2012
Study on the Level of Aflatoxin M1 Contamination in Raw and Processed Milk Marketed in Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Kafle Pratap , Sedai Damodar , Rai Krishna Prasad , Pokharel Bishow Bandhu
Published: October 2014

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is the principal hydroxylated AFB1 metabolite mainly present in milk. In this study the levels of Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in Raw and Pasteurized milk marketed in Kathmandu valley was estimated. Altogether 32 milk samples (Raw 16, Pasteurized 16) obtained from different areas of Kathmandu valley were analysed for AFM1 by Thin Layer Chromatography. The milk samples were analyzed according to the official AOAC methods, which included extraction of toxin using chloroform, clearing by silica gel column chromatography, qualitative analysis by Thin Layer Chromatography and quantification by Visual comparison of the spots. AFM1 was found in 14 (43.75%) of milk samples examined. The levels of AFM1 in 7 (21.87%) samples were higher than the maximum tolerance limit (0.05 µg/l) accepted by some European countries while none of the samples exceeded the prescribed limit of US regulations. The mean concentration of AFM1 was higher in Raw milk (0.030 ± 0.042 µg/l) compared to pasteurized (0.022 ± 0.039) but the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). This finding reflects that milk marketed in Kathmandu valley contains residual level of Aflatoxin M1 and pose public health risk. Therefore, milk and milk products have to be screened for AFM1 contamination periodically. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jfstn.v7i0.10598   J. Food Sci. Technol. Nepal, Vol. 7 (52-56), 2012
Common Pests and Pesticides used in High Value Crops: A Case Study on Some Selected Districts of Nepal
Authors: Koirala Pramod , Tamrakar Ananda Shova
Published: October 2014

This study was carried out in eight districts of Nepal to explore the pests, pesticides and other agro-chemicals used in high value  crops viz. tea, coffee, honey and vegetables (tomato and brinjal). The study carried out districts for tea were Jhapa and Illam, whereas for vegetables Bara and Kavre. Similarly, honey was studied in Chitwan and Nawalparasi, whereas coffee in Gulmi and Lalitpur. The results revealed that different type of pests were found to be problematic in high value crops production. Loopers  were the major pests in tea, borers in coffee, fruit fly in vegetables and mites in beekeeping. Different pesticides and some other agro-chemicals have been found to be used for pest management. Additionally, pesticide residues analysis for selected pesticides was carried out using GC-MS technique. The result of analysis showed that non of pesticides was found at the detection level of 0.7 parts per million. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jfstn.v7i0.10608 J. Food Sci. Technol. Nepal, Vol. 7 (64-69), 2012
Study of Functional Property of Bread Based on Buckwheat and Green Tea
Authors: Bhattarai Shraddha , Ojha Pravin , Rai Krishna Prasad
Published: October 2014

A study was conducted to formulate and observe the functional properties of bread based on buckwheat and green tea. The physiochemical and functional properties of the raw materials used and that of the best sample were also analyzed. The TPC in BWF and GT were found to be 51 GAE and 95 GAE respectively. In other hand, antioxidant activity was found to be 7.1% and 39.2% respectively. From the sensory evaluation, the sample with 60:40 ratio of BWF: WF and 3% GTB incorporated was found to be superior. Furthermore, iron, calcium, tannin content, total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity of the best product were found to be 3.133 mg /100g, 315.56mg/100g, 0.0000084%, 71GAE and 5.6% respectively. Additionally, a comparative proximate composition analysis of the best sample and market product was analyzed and the result showed the protein content of the lab sample was about 3 times more than that of the market product. Therefore, the lab prepared bread was found to be highly nutritious with functional characteristics with acceptable sensory qualities and shelf-life. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jfstn.v7i0.10610   J. Food Sci. Technol. Nepal, Vol. 7 (70-75), 2012
Processing Effect on Phytic Acid and Inorganic Phosphorus Content of Soybean (Glycine max, Brown var.)
Authors: Rijal Somkanta , Adhikari Babita
Published: October 2014

The objective of this research was to study the effect of some processing methods on phytic acid (a prominent anti-nutritive substance) and inorganic phosphorous content of the king legume soybean. The processing treatments viz. soaking and subsequent germination; kinema fermentation and heating were applied. It was observed that soaking for 12 hrs at room temperature under citric acid solution, distilled water and sodium bicarbonate solution significantly (p <0.05) lowered the phytic acid content of soybean by 7.99%, 6.38% and 7.20% respectively and also correspondingly lowered the inorganic phosphorous by 21.8%, 27.55% and 30.75% . Maximum destruction of phytic acid (35.1% reduction) occurred during germination for 120 hrs in 0.1% citric acid solution. This was further confirmed by increase of inorganic phosphorous content (196.22%) in corresponding treatments. A 46.07% significant reduction (p < 0.05) of phytic acid content over the control was noticed after 72 hrs of kinema fermentation. On the same interval, inorganic phosphorous content also significantly increased by 180%. Autoclaving was found more effective than dry heating and boiling also could reduce the phytic acid content of soybean. Autoclaving (121ºC for 15 min), dry heating (200ºC for 5 min) and boiling (100ºC for 30 min) significantly lowered (p< 0.05) soybean phytate by 20.76%, 12.84% and 14.84% respectively. In other hand, inorganic phosphorous content were increased significantly by 80.56%, 43.8% and 63.55% at the same time. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jfstn.v7i0.11208   J. Food Sci. Technol. Nepal, Vol. 7 (102-106), 2012
Outcome of Teenage Pregnancy
Authors: Tripathi M , Sherchand A
Published: September 2014

INTRODUCTION: Teenage pregnancy is coming up as one of the most important social and public health problem all over the world. Teenage pregnancy is a common social phenomenon with public health and medical consequences worldwide. The study was done to compare obstetric and perinatal outcome in teenage and non-teenage pregnancies. METHODS: This is a comparative study. The study duration was from 10th January 2010 to 9th January 2012. All teenage mothers (aged 13-19 completed years at delivery) delivering in the Gandaki Medical College (GMC) hospital, Pokhara were taken as cases (study group). Next 2 consecutive deliveries in the age group of 20-30 year were selected as control for each case. RESULTS: The incidence of complications in teenage primigravida (study group) compared with non-teenage (control group) deliveries were anemia (20% vs 6%), preterm labour (20 % vs 7%), Urinary tract infection(UTI) (8 % vs 4%), pre-eclampsia (4 % vs 2%) and Prelabour Rupture of Membrane(PROM) (10% vs 4%). Similarly, abnormal presentation (6% vs 2%), placenta praevia (4% vs 1%), Fetal distress(FD) (8% vs 3%), Cephalo Pelvic Disproportion(CPD) (6 % vs 2%) and Low Birth Weight(LBW) (24 % vs 9 %)were recorded respectively. In study group, 58% of the patients were delivered vaginally & 24% were delivered by caesarean section, 6% delivered by breech and 12% of patients had instrumental delivery. In non-teenage group, 74% of the patients delivered vaginally & 14% were delivered by caesarean section, 4% delivered by breech and 8% of patient had instrumental delivery.CONCLUSION: Teenage pregnant mothers had high rate of inadequate prenatal care, suffered more from anemia, UTI, & were more likely to deliver preterm and had low birth weight babies. They had high rates of operative and instrumental delivery. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i2.11168 Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.2(2): 11-14
Contraception in Eastern Nepal: A Study of Knowledge and Use
Authors: Keyal NK , Moore M
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES: To discover the knowledge and use of contraception amongst women in eastern Nepal and to identify reasons for patterns of use. METHOD: A cross-sectional study, using a structured survey, was completed by women admitted to the post-natal ward of Koshi Zonal Hospital in eastern Nepal. The subjects were asked questions about their knowledge and use of contraception as well as reasons for their contraceptive choices. RESULTS: The subjects showed a large discrepancy between knowledge (79%) and use (21%) of contraception. Knowledge was greater in higher socio-economic groups but use was not significantly different. Knowledge and use increased with age to a maximum use of 50% at age greater than 30 years. The main source of contraceptive knowledge was from formal school education. Injectable progesterone was the most common contraceptive used and this was said to be because of its convenience. The main reasons for non-use of contraception were subjects wanting another child and fear of side-effects. All contraceptives were purchased from private shops due to discomfort at attending recognisable contraceptive providers.. CONCLUSIONS: The levels of contraceptive awareness and use were lower than in other published Nepalese studies. This difference is associated with low educational levels in the study population. There is also an ongoing desire for larger families. There is a need for more contraceptive education that does not rely on schooling. The lack of use of government contraceptive services should also be addressed. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i2.11169 Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.2(2): 15-20
Clinical Profile of Patients Presenting to Low Vision Clinic of a Tertiary Center in Western Region of Nepal
Authors: Thapa HB , Gautam P , Mahotra NB , Bajracharya K
Published: September 2014

INTRODUCTION: Low vision is an important public health problem; however, very few low vision clinics are available to address the needs of low vision patients in most developing countries. The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics of patients attending the low vision clinic of a tertiary care eye hospital of Western Region of Nepal. METHODS: This was a prospective cross sectional study of all new Nepali patients seen at the low vision clinic over 2 years period. The patients were administered with clinical low vision form (a structured questionnaire) and were examined and tested with low vision devices by the attending low vision specialist. Information on the demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients was recorded. RESULTS: A total of 214 new patients seen during the period were studied. The mean age was 19.80 years, and their ages ranged between 4 and 86 years with a male to female ratio of 2.69:1. Majority (53.30%) were children (≤15years), while 3.70% were elderly patients (≥65years).  The commonest cause of low vision was lens related like pseudophakia, aphakia (20.60%); 18.20% had refractive error/amblyopia; 17.80% had retinitis pigmentosa; macular disorder (20%) and retinitis pigmentosa (20%) were the commonest cause in the adult and elderly patients, while lens related (24.6%) and refractive error/amblyopia (21.1%) were the commonest causes in children.CONCLUSION: The demographic and clinical characteristics of low vision patients seen in this clinic are similar to that of patients in other developing countries, but different from those in developed countries. Elderly patients and females may be under-utilizing low vision services. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i2.11172 Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.2(2): 35-39
Medical Ethics and Human Rights in Reproductive Health
Authors: Muhunthan K , Arulkumaran S
Published: September 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11177 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):5-7
Experience of Managing Urogenital Fistula
Authors: Pradhan HK , Dhangal G , Karki A , Shrestha R , Bhattachan K
Published: September 2014

Aim: The study was done to review the demography of urogenital fistulae including obstetric fistula (OF) and its surgical outcome in the early phase of fistula surgery and to create awareness about OF. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 47 patients who underwent fistula surgery during the period of January 2012 to May 2014 in Kathmandu Model Hospital, Helping Hand Community Hospital, Camp in Mid-wetern Regional Hospital Surkhet and Hamlin Hospital, Ethiopia. The primary outcome was in terms of urinary continence after 14 days of repair. Results: In the study 70% (n=33) of fistula were due to obstructed labour and 30% (n=14) were due to hysterectomy for gynecological indications. Ninety six percent (n=45) had successful closure of fistula. Seventy seven percent (n=36) were continent after surgery, and 17% (n=8) had some stress incontinence. Conclusions: The study showed obstructed labour was the major cause of OF, however iatrogenic fistula was also becoming common. The success of repair depended on the type, site, size of fistula and urethral length. Majority of our cases had successful closure of fistula with some degree of stress in some patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11181 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):17-20
Analysis of Pap Smear Database in a Community Hospital
Authors: Sharma R , Baral GN , Dangal G
Published: September 2014

Aims: This study was done to find out age wise distribution pattern, cellular abnormality and adequacy of Pap smears. Methods: A retrospective study of 4800 Pap smears based on laboratory database was done from 2008 to 2011 at Helping Hands Community Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. Graphical method was used for normality test and frequency analysis was done using SPSS 16. Results: Out of 4794 analysable data 4.21% had abnormal cytology, all high-grade lesions were in 51-65 age group and 0.06% were detected as carcinoma. Age group of 30-65 years covers four-fifth of the samples (3811, 79.4%) and 85.6% of abnormal cytology (173 out of 202) with maximum samples (3313, 69%) at 30-50 years and 55.44% of abnormal cytology. Only 5.4% of samples categorized as inadequate by Bethesda reporting system. Age wise distribution of samples produced near normal Gaussian curve. Conclusions: Pap samples were normally distributed by age. Test requisition forms lack adequate clinical information. Even the inadequately sampled Pap smears were satisfactory for evaluation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11182 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):21-25
Maternal Mortality: A Review from Eastern Nepal
Authors: Rijal P , Agrawal A , Pokharel H , Pradhan T , Regmi MC
Published: September 2014

Aims: This study was done to assess the main causes of maternal mortality and other co-morbid factors contributing to maternal death at a university teaching hospital. Methods: A retrospective study was carried out in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology analyzing all case record of maternal deaths from April 2008 to April 2011. Results: Eclampsia, unsafe abortion, puerperal sepsis, hemorrhages were the leading causes of death. Majority of the patients were unbooked. Conclusions: Eclampsia, sepsis and hemorrhage were the main causes of maternal deaths. Elderly ages, illiterate status, rural residence, presence of prior medical disease were statistically significant factors contributing to maternal death. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11185 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):33-36
Condom Tamponade in the Management of Massive Obstetric Hemorrhage: An Experience at a Teaching Hospital
Authors: Gurung BS , Dongol Y , Tuladhar H
Published: September 2014

Aims:This study evaluates the effectiveness of condom tamponade in the management of massive obstetric hemorrhage. Methods: This hospital based prospective descriptive study was done in the department of obstetrics and gynecology of KIST Medical College Teaching Hospital, Lalitpur, Nepal from January 2013 to December 2013. During the study period, patients with obstetric hemorrhage(>500ml blood loss) were identified and the details of the patient and their treatment were acquired. Data analysis was done by descriptive statistics using mean, median and frequency cross tabulations. The decision for condom tamponade was made when active continuous hemorrhage persisted despite of initial conservative measures. Results: Among 39 patients of obstetric hemorrhage out of 1522 deliveries, eight were managed by condom tamponade which includes 6 postpartum hemorrhage cases, 1 incomplete abortion case and 1 antepartum case managed prophylactically in anticipation of postpartum hemorrhage. Conclusions: Despite of the small study sample, the study concludes the use of condom tamponade as an effective means of controlling massive obstetrical hemorrhage due to uterine atony (both in post partum and post abortion cases). It is safe, easily available, inexpensive, minimally invasive, does not require anesthesia, easy to use and can be performed by any level of health personnel with some training. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11187 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):41-47
Intra-amniotic Digoxin for Fetal Anomaly in Second and Early Third Trimester
Authors: Shakya B , Chaudhary P , Tumbahangphe M , Jha M
Published: September 2014

Aims: Carrying a baby with major anomaly is emotional trauma for mother and her family. If born alive, these babies would either not survive or would have significant disability. The objective of this study was to induce fetal demise by instillation of digoxin intra-amniotically for fetal anomaly before termination of pregnancy. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study undertaken at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital from April 13, 2012 to October 13, 2013. Patient characteristics, gestational age, types of fetal anomaly and its time of detection were recorded in 32 cases with fetal anomaly in second and early third trimester. One milligram digoxin was instilled intra-amniotically under ultrasound guidance and after 24 hours, ultrasonography was done to check fetal cardiac activity. Induction of labour using misoprostol as per FIGO guideline and augmentation with oxytocin was done if already in labour. Induction to delivery interval, effectiveness and side effects of digoxin were recorded. Results: Among 32 cases of fetal anomaly, majority occurred in primigravida (n=17, 53.12%). The mean age was 25 years and mean gestational age was 26.5 weeks’. Majority of them were anencephaly (n=16, 50%) followed by multiple anomaly (n=6, 18.75%). Thirty one (96.87%) cases visited out-patient department, 25% of them had presented late at 30-34 weeks’. Following 24 hours of intra-amniotic digoxin, cardiac activity was absent in all cases and there was no side effect of digoxin. Spontaneous expulsion occurred in 9.37%, oxytocin augmentation (n=6, 18.75%) and misoprostol induction (n=23, 71.87%). The mean induction to delivery interval was 47.3 hours. Conclusions: Intra-amniotic digoxin instillation appeared safe and effective in inducing fetal demise for fetal anomaly in second and early third trimester. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11188 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):48-51
The Role of Partograph in the Outcome of Spontaneous Labor
Authors: Sanyal U , Goswami S , Mukhopadhyay P
Published: September 2014

Aims: The objective of the paper is to study the role of partogram in the outcome of spontaneous labour in primigravidae at term with singleton pregnancy and vertex as the presenting part. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the labour room of the department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata, over a period of one year i.e. from June 2011 to May 2012 after obtaining approval from the institutional ethical committee. Analysis of the progress of labour was done in five hundred women with the help of modified WHO partograph. The study population was divided into three groups. Group I had a total observed duration of active stage six hours or less and their cervicograph remained on or to the left of the alert line. Group II had total observed duration of active phase between more than six hours and less than ten hours and their cervicograph remained between the alert and action line. Group III, who had the duration of observed active phase more than 10 hours, had their cervicograph crossing the action line. The different types of abnormal labor were studied. The maternal and fetal outcomes were assessed. Results: 80.8% of the women belonged to group I, 15.2% to group II and 4% to group III. Surgical interference increased as the labour curve moved to the right of the alert line. Use of partogram helped in overall reduction in the duration of labour. Timely intervention reduced the incidence of prolonged labour and its sequelae. 19.2% of the women showed abnormal labour . Severe complications were successfully averted. There were no cases of maternal death, puerperal sepsis, ruptured uterus or fresh still births. Overall neonatal mortality rate was also reduced. Conclusions: The use of modified WHO partograph significantly improves the outcome of labour in both maternal & neonatal perspective. The WHO partograph should be used in all maternity units with incorporated management guidelines. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11189 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):52-57
Raised Uric Acid Level and Fetal Outcome in Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Authors: Singh A , Sharma P , Malla R , Singh S
Published: September 2014

Aims: This study was done to find the relation of raised uric acid with fetal outcome in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and to compare the fetal outcome with normal and raised uric acid level . Methods: This was a hospital based cross-sectional prospective comparative study done in Paropakar maternity and Women’s hospital conducted over three month period. Results: During the study period, a total of 126 cases of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were identified among 3819 obstetric cases. The incidence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in this study was 3.3%. Fifty seven of them were found to have serum uric acid level <5.5 mg% (Group A), 43 of them were found to have serum uric acid level ≥5.5mg% (Group B). In those developing hyperuricemia 54.81% had mild hypertension, 40.91% had severe hypertension. Adverse perinatal outcome with serum uric acid level ≥5.5mg/dl had stillbirth in 7%, had low birth weight in 27.9%, 11.6 % were admitted in special care baby unit and 18.6 % had apgar <7 at five minute. Conclusions: Perinatal morbidity and mortality was increased in women with raised uric acid level except admission to special baby care unit Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are associated with high maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v9i1.11196 NJOG 2014 Jan-Jun; 2(1):78-81
Mesure de la complexité de lecture des formulaires de déclaration et de renonciation aux droits pour adolescents québécois
Authors: Luther Kirk , Snook Brent , Luther Elisabeth
Published: October 2014

Résumé

La présente étude porte sur l’évaluation de la complexité de lecture d’un échantillon de formulaires de déclaration et de renonciation aux droits pour adolescents et utilisés par les organisations policières québécoises. La complexité de six formulaires de déclaration et de renonciation aux droits a été mesurée en utilisant quatre mesures d’évaluation de la complexité de lecture (la longueur des mots, l’équation Laesbarhedsindex, l’équation Kandel-Moles et la fréquence des mots). Les résultats ont démontré que les formulaires sont longs, grammaticalement complexes et contiennent des phrases difficiles à comprendre avec des mots utilisés peu fréquemment dans le langage courant. La probabilité que les droits constitutionnels des jeunes Québécois soient respectés et la nécessité de créer un formulaire de déclaration et de renonciation aux droits normalisé sont discutées.
Microscope Use in Clinical Veterinary Practice and Potential Implications for Veterinary School Curricula
Authors: Stewart Sherry M. , Dowers Kristy L. , Cerda Jacey R. , Schoenfeld-Tacher Regina M. , Kogan Lori R.
Published: October 2014

Microscopy (skill of using a microscope) and the concepts of cytology (study of cells) and histology (study of tissues) are most often taught in professional veterinary medicine programs through the traditional method of glass slides and light microscopes. Several limiting factors in veterinary training programs are encouraging educators to explore innovative options for teaching microscopy skills and the concepts of cytology and histology. An anonymous online survey was administered through the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association to Colorado veterinarians working in private practice. It was designed to assess their current usage of microscopes for cytological and histological evaluation of specimens and their perceptions of microscope use in their veterinary education. The first part of the survey was answered by 183 veterinarians, with 104 indicating they had an onsite diagnostic lab. Analysis pertaining to the use of the microscope in practice and in veterinary programs was conducted on this subset. Most respondents felt the amount of time spent in the curriculum using a microscope was just right for basic microscope use and using the microscope for viewing and learning about normal and abnormal histological sections and clinical cytology. Participants felt more emphasis could be placed on clinical and diagnostic cytology. Study results suggest that practicing veterinarians frequently use microscopes for a wide variety of cytological diagnostics. However, only two respondents indicated they prepared samples for histological evaluation. Veterinary schools should consider these results against the backdrop of pressure to implement innovative teaching techniques to meet the changing needs of the profession.
Excellent cold rollability in a single pass of an Mg-4Er (wt.%) alloy
Authors: Du X. H. , Hong M. , Duan G. S. , Wei C. B. , Jiang E. P. , Zhang M. , Wu B. L. , Zhang Y. D. , Esling C.
Published: October 2014

Sheets of Mg-4Er (wt.%) alloy were prepared by multi-pass hot rolling and subsequent annealing. The annealed sheets could be cold-rolled to a high reduction of 95% (corresponding to a rolling strain of 3) by one-pass rolling at room temperature. The evolution of the deformed microstructure of Mg-4Er alloy was investigated during the cold-rolling process. The results suggest that multiple dislocation slips are the predominant deformation mode responsible for the remarkable rolling plastic strain. Meanwhile, the multiple dislocation slips are favorable to a continuous restoration process, which can accommodate the rolling strain by absorbing the deformation energy.
Evolution from microscopic transoral to endoscopic endonasal odontoidectomy
Authors: Ponce-Gómez Juan Antonio , Ortega-Porcayo Luis Alberto , Soriano-Barón Hector Enrique , Sotomayor-González Arturo , Arriada-Mendicoa Nicasio , Gómez-Amador Juan Luis , Palma-Díaz Marité , Barges-Coll Juan
Published: October 2014

Object

The goal of this study was to compare the indications, benefits, and complications between the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) and the microscopic transoral approach to perform an odontoidectomy. Transoral approaches have been standard for odontoidectomy procedures; however, the potential benefits of the EEA might be demonstrated to be a more innocuous technique. The authors present their experience with 12 consecutive cases that required odontoidectomy and posterior instrumentation.

Methods

Twelve consecutive cases of craniovertebral junction instability with or without basilar invagination were diagnosed at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery in Mexico City, Mexico, between January 2009 and January 2013. The EEA was used for 5 cases in which the odontoid process was above the nasopalatine line, and was compared with 7 cases in which the odontoid process was beneath the nasopalatine line; these were treated using the transoral microscopic approach (TMA). Odontoidectomy was performed after occipital-cervical or cervical posterior augmentation with lateral mass and translaminar screws. One case was previously fused (Oc–C4 fusion). The senior author performed all surgeries. American Spinal Injury Association scores were documented before surgical treatment and after at least 6 months of follow-up.

Results

Neurological improvement after odontoidectomy was similar for both groups. From the transoral group, 2 patients had postoperative dysphonia, 1 patient presented with dysphagia, and 1 patient had intraoperative CSF leakage. The endoscopic procedure required longer surgical time, less time to extubation and oral feeding, a shorter hospital stay, and no complications in this series.

Conclusions

Endoscopic endonasal odontoidectomy is a feasible, safe, and well-tolerated procedure. In this small series there was no difference in the outcome between the EEA and the TMA; however, fewer complications were documented with the endonasal technique.
Endoscopic endonasal optic nerve and orbital apex decompression for nontraumatic optic neuropathy: surgical nuances and review of the literature
Authors: Berhouma Moncef , M.Sc.  , Jacquesson Timothee , M.Sc.  , Abouaf Lucie , M.Sc.  , Vighetto Alain , Ph.D.  , Jouanneau Emmanuel
Published: October 2014

Object

While several approaches have been described for optic nerve decompression, the endoscopic endonasal route is gaining favor because it provides excellent exposure of the optic canal and the orbital apex in a minimally invasive manner. Very few studies have detailed the experience with nontraumatic optic nerve decompressions, whereas traumatic cases have been widely documented. Herein, the authors describe their preliminary experience with endoscopic endonasal decompression for nontraumatic optic neuropathies (NONs) to determine the procedure’s efficacy and delineate its potential indications and limits.

Methods

The medical reports of patients who had undergone endoscopic endonasal optic nerve and orbital apex decompression for NONs at the Lyon University Neurosurgical Hospital in the period from January 2012 to March 2014 were reviewed. For all cases, clinical and imaging data on the underlying pathology and the patient, including demographics, preoperative and 6-month postoperative ophthalmological assessment results, symptom duration, operative details with video debriefing, as well as the immediate and delayed postoperative course, were collected from the medical records.

Results

Eleven patients underwent endoscopic endonasal decompression for NON in the multidisciplinary skull base surgery unit of the Lyon University Neurosurgical Hospital during the 27-month study period. The mean patient age was 53.4 years, and there was a clear female predominance (8 females and 3 males). Among the underlying pathologies were 4 sphenoorbital meningiomas (36%), 3 optic nerve meningiomas (27%), and 1 each of trigeminal neuroma (9%), orbital apex meningioma (9%), ossifying fibroma (9%), and inflammatory pseudotumor of the orbit (9%). Fifty-four percent of the patients had improved visual acuity at the 6-month follow-up. Only 1 patient whose sphenoorbital meningioma had been treated at the optic nerve atrophy stage continued to worsen despite surgical decompression. The 2 patients presenting with preoperative papilledema totally recovered. One case of postoperative epistaxis was successfully treated using balloon inflation, and 1 case of air swelling of the orbit spontaneously resolved.

Conclusions

Endoscopic endonasal optic nerve decompression is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive technique affording the restoration of visual function in patients with nontraumatic compressive processes of the orbital apex and optic nerve. The timing of decompression remains crucial, and patients should undergo such a procedure early in the disease course before optic atrophy.
Expanding indications for the extended endoscopic endonasal approach to hypothalamic gliomas: preliminary report
Authors: Zoli Matteo , Mazzatenta Diego , Valluzzi Adelaide , Marucci Gianluca , Ph.D.  , Acciarri Nicola , Pasquini Ernesto , Frank Giorgio
Published: October 2014

Object

In the last decade the indications for the endoscopic endonasal approach have been progressively expanded to include lesions that have not been traditionally considered amenable to resection through the transsphenoidal route. In this study, the authors analyze their experience with hypothalamic gliomas treated via the endoscopic endonasal approach.

Methods

Consecutive cases of hypothalamic gliomas treated since 2007 via an endoscopic endonasal approach were reviewed. Preoperative and postoperative neuroimaging as well as endocrinological, neurological, and visual symptoms were analyzed to assess the surgical outcome. Signs and symptoms of hypothalamic dysfunction including body mass index (BMI), memory, sleep-wake rhythm, and polyphagia were prospectively collected pre- and postoperatively to assess hypothalamic function. Quality of life was evaluated using the Katz scale.

Results

In the initial phase the endoscopic endonasal approach was adopted in 3 cases with a palliative intent, to obtain a biopsy sample or for debulking of the mass followed by radio- or chemotherapy. In 2 later cases it was successfully adopted to achieve gross-total tumor resection. Complications consisted of 2 postoperative CSF leaks, which required an endoscopic endonasal reintervention. Visual deficit improved in 3 cases and normalized in the other 2. Four patients developed diabetes insipidus, and 3 an anterior panhypopituitarism. All patients had a moderate increase in BMI. No patients presented with any other signs of hypothalamic damage, and their quality of life at follow-up is normal.

Conclusions

Despite the limitations of a short follow-up and small sample, the authors’ early experience with the endoscopic endonasal approach has revealed it to be a direct, straightforward, and safe approach to third ventricle astrocytomas. It allowed the authors to perform tumor resection with the same microsurgical technique: dissecting the tumor with 2 hands, performing a central debulking, and controlling the bleeding with bipolar coagulation. The main limitations were represented by some anatomical conditions, such as the position of the chiasm and the anterior communicating artery complex and, finally, by the challenge of watertight plastic repair. To definitively evaluate the role of this approach in hypothalamic gliomas, a comparison with transcranial series would be necessary, but due to the rarity of these cases such a study is still lacking. The authors observed that more aggressive surgery is associated with a worse endocrinological outcome; thus they consider it to be an open question (in particular in prepubertal patients) whether radical removal is an advisable goal for hypothalamic gliomas.