bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practitioner Perspective: Why Ratepayers Protections are Needed in the U.S. Water Utility Privatization Push
Authors: Gallos Peggy
Published: September 2021

U.S. water and sewer services are still provided mostly by government service delivery models, but in some places including New Jersey and Pennsylvania, that is changing. Both Wall Street and investor-owned water and sewer corporations see aging infrastructure and stretched municipal finances as opportunities. The investor-owned utilities have successfully lobbied to overcome what they consider to be “regulatory hurdles.” Unfortunately, the policies being pushed and deals being made limit democracy and transparency. The higher cost of privatized service adds extra burdens to ratepayers, especially those with low incomes. Laws and regulations should be changed to reverse policies that are anti-consumer and undemocratic.
Fieldwork in the Anthropocene. On the Possibilities of Analogical Thinking between Nature and Society
Authors: Bogusz Tanja
Published: September 2021

Interdisciplinary sensitivity takes into account the epistemic upheaval of the Anthropocene. However, the still fragmented academic organization between nature and society counteracts intellectual progress. The paper explores the possibilities of enhancing collaboration between biology and sociology by providing an empirical reflection of common methodological grounds. Building on practice theory, pragmatism, science studies and sociocultural anthropology, I discuss current nature–society relationships through an ethnography of a taxonomist’s laboratory, followed up by a biodiversity expedition in Papua New Guinea. I address analogical thinking as a device for interdisciplinary collaboration through four modes of fieldwork enrollment: Ontological, disciplinary, transdisciplinary and experimental. The paper concludes with two arguments: Firstly, fieldwork could engender new knowledge in between differing epistemic cultures and, secondly, an analogical fieldwork approach based on the interrelatedness of experience, trial and cooperation facilitates promising pathways for sustainable futures of inquiry.
Autism spectrum disorder research funding may be biased in favor of studying ASD in males in the United States
Authors: Ong Luke , Ong Joseph Yeejoo
Published: September 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a prevalent developmental disorder that presents differently between males and females. Males are diagnosed with ASD at a higher rate than females and tend to present with more severe behavioral characteristics. Consequently, there may be funding and research discrepancies based on biological sex in ASD research where females with ASD may be less represented than their male counterparts. To assess whether such a funding and research disparity exists within the United States research system, we searched the United States National Institutes of Health grant reporting database (RePORTER) for grants and projects that studied the relationship between biological sex and ASD research in humans spanning the last 10 years (2009-2019). We document a discrepancy in the number of studies and the amount of federal funding dedicated to studies of ASD in males versus females in the United States. While funding of most of ASD research (85%) is dedicated to research in both sexes, only a minor portion (0.4%) is dedicated to ASD research in females (compare to 14% dedicated to ASD research in males). Similarly, the number of funded studies dedicated to ASD research in males (8 of 43) predominates over the number of studies dedicated to ASD research in females (1 of 43) (research in both sexes, 34 of 43). As a result, research dedicated to females with ASD is underrepresented relative to their male counterparts. We suggest that the imbalance between ASD research and funding of males and females may result in gender disparities in our understanding of ASD.
Towards a Systematic Understanding on the Challenges of Procuring Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sector
Authors: McBride Keegan , van Noordt Colin , Misuraca Gianluca , Hammerschmid Gerhard
Published: September 2021

There is an increased interest amongst governments and public sector organisations about how to best integrate artificial intelligence into their day-to-day business processes. Yet, a large majority of technical know how is concentrated within the private sector, requiring most public sector organisations to rely on public procurement for AI systems. While many governments may have experience with traditional forms of public technological procurement, this paper argues that the public procurement of AI is different and new insight is needed to understand this differentiation and procure AI better. This paper offers an initial contribution to the public administration and management literature by describing this difference, and identifying the challenges associated with the public procurement of AI. In order to achieve this contribution, the research studied guidelines in four European countries (Estonia, Netherlands, Serbia, and the United Kingdom) to generate insight into the challenges faced, and potential solutions to these challenges, during the public procurement of AI process.
Geotechnical characterization of Beka-Gotto rock massif (Adamawa Region-Cameroon) for the use in civil engineering
Authors: Aboubakar Abdoul , Manefouet Bertille Illalie , Komguep Landrie Sylvin , Talom Emmanuel Tatchoum , Foueze Clotaire Romaric , Djonthu Yannick Lahe
Published: September 2021

Beka-Gotto is a village of Ngaoundal located in the Adamawa region (Cameroon). The present study is carried out to determine the physical and mechanical characteristics of the local rock massifs, in order to determine their possible uses in various fields of civil engineering. The methodology used consists of petrographic and geotechnical characterization of the different massifs. The rocks crop outas domes or slabs. The rock is light gray. Under the microscope, the rock presents a grainy microstructure composed of plagioclase, potassium feldspar, biotite and quartz. Zircon and opaque minerals represent the accessory phase. With this composition, rock is granodiorite. The geotechnical study, on the other hand, made it possible to understand that, on the physical level, the rock massif has very good properties. In fact, the specific weight on class 6/10 and 10/14 obtained has mean values of ​​2.73 and 2.68 kN/m3 respectively. While the apparent density obtained of the class 6/10 and 10/14 has mean values 1.35 and 1.46 g/cm3 respectively. Mechanically, Los Angeles coefficient is 24-46.3% while the Micro-Deval coefficient is 7-35% and the coefficient of dynamic fragmentation is 18-30%. In accordance with geotechnical standards, with the exception of the Gbago massif, the other massifs have a choc resistance and a wear resistance of satisfactory to limited grade as well as good resistance to dynamic fragmentation and therefore usable in any type of structure.
Applications of open source software in land administration: An initiation with land administration education
Authors: Bhatta Ganesh Prasad
Published: September 2021

The LA System in Nepal is quite traditional. The government has realized the need of modernizing the system and some positive efforts are underway at the moment. Introduction of Geo-ICT in the business system is one of the main objectives of these efforts. Capacity building is an essential aspect to be considered before introducing modernisation in the system. Some efforts are underway in this aspect such as human resource development through Geomatic Education in the country. Recently, Kathmandu University (KU) has introduced a bachelor’s degree level course in Geomatics Engineering, i.e. Bachelor’s of Engineering (B.E.) on Geomatics, as a collaborative program with Land Management Training Center (LMTC). This new initiative would include Geo-ICT based land administration education. Application of Open Source Software (OSS) for the education could be a better choice for KU and LMTC to exploit all possible functionalities of the OSS in developing / supporting a Geo-ICT based land administration education With this ground, the author carried out a study to overview the possibilities with Open Source Software (OSS) to apply for land administration in Nepal. The paper is developed out of the study.
Development of educational courses on space science technology in Nepal
Authors: Adhikary Krishna Raj
Published: September 2021

Space science and Geomatics education in Nepal is recently started on some of the training institution and university of Nepal. Preliminary subjects required for space science and technology have been introduced into science curricula at the higher secondary level of the Nepalese’s school, however the benefit of space science and technology have not been appreciated enough. Facilities and resources of teaching science and technology at educational institutions are not yet developed. Attempts have been made to incorporate the elements of space science and technology into undergraduate level of education of the university.

This paper starts with the discussion on the space science education in Nepal at the school and college level and mainly focus on initiation taken by the training institution and university of Nepal to introduce the subjects of space science and technology at their curriculum on geomatics engineering and other engineering education. Some recommendation have been made to introduce the different type of educational courses and/or training on space science and technology, which will meet the needs of development to built a general capability in space science as a necessary support for infrastructure development of Nepal and consequently will help to promote the educational activities on space science education in the country.
Theory of error and least square adjustment: Application in coordinate transformation
Authors: Adhikari Madhusudan
Published: September 2021

After detection and elimination of blunders, determination and correction of systematic errors the remaining random errors are adjusted by the method of least square. It is very useful technique in survey adjustments; as an example of its application, adjustment of conformal transformation of coordinate has been presented in this paper.
Updating of topographic maps in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Kalyan Gopal
Published: September 2021

The latest Topographical maps in Nepal are over a decade old. The “ideal” mapping product is one which is produced in real time from an updated spatial database. There is an urgent need to update existing ones. A complete and renewed process of updating databases, in traditional and conventional methods, is expensive, time-consuming and demands a great deal of human and capital resources. Therefore, it is impossible to update maps quickly by traditional and conventional methods. The Topographical Survey Branch of Survey Department is updating topographical maps using satellite imagery. It is preferable to focus on the continuous updating of the spatial database, with well defined specifications. In this paper, the updating of topographical maps in Nepal using satellite imagery is discussed.
Assessment of Groundwater Recharge Using GIS
Authors: Dangol Susheel
Published: September 2021

Pressure on drinking water is increasing tremendously due to the increase in population in Kathmandu valley. Groundwater is serving as one of main source of water supply in the valley. Due to the scarcity of surface water and high demand for drinking water, excess extraction of groundwater than it replenishes may cause negative effect to Kathmandu valley like subduction. Thus, proper quantification of groundwater recharge must be done to de! ne sustainable extraction of the groundwater. This study is conducted with the aim to demonstrate the simple water balance model within the GIS environment in order to quantify the spatial distribution of groundwater recharge. The simple water balance model Thornthwaite and Marther (1955) was used to quantify the water balance components in the upper bagmati watershed. The study shows that the groundwater recharge is high at the northern part specifically where there is high water holding capacity.
Adopting Geo-ICT in Survey Department: Need for Capacity Building
Authors: Shrestha Kalyan Gopal
Published: September 2021

The Geospatial Information and Communication Technology (Geo-ICT), is gaining momentum and has revolutionized the Surveying and Mapping profession. Since the geo-technology is evolving continuously, constant efforts are being made for its diverse applications. Most of the users are convinced that digital technology is known for its easy use and the power to improve their work process. Survey Department has witnessed tremendous changes in the technologies and corresponding policies in Global scenario in last fifty two years of its history and particularly during last two decades. Adoption of Geo- ICT has become indispensable in the present context. Even though Survey Department, so far, is not in the stage of fully exploiting the Geo-ICT, Time has come to think of adopting Geo-ICT application. Because, the wider use of Geo-ICT could be prime instrumental to support the overall Surveying and Mapping business. The success of efficient Geo-ICT application heavily depends on the capacity building, institutional reforms, devolution, education and continuous training, and ultimately the commitment of the government.

This article has tried to focus on various factors responsible for successful implementation of Geo-ICT in Nepalese context.
Land Policy Issues in Nepalese Context
Authors: Subedi Gandhi , Chhatkuli Raja Ram
Published: September 2021

The land issues comprise all social, economical and legal measures that determine the access to land and allocation of land related benefits. Land administration plays important role in obtaining national political objectives by operating land policy instruments properly. This paper aims to discuss various land policy issues in Nepal. The literature regarding land policy and land administration, concerning laws and reports are reviewed. The concept and definition of land policy and land administration and their relationship is provided first; and then the land policy issues and major challenges are discussed, some measures to overcome such challenges are also presented; and conclusion is drawn from the whole study. Lack of national land policy and land use policy, no guarantee of registered deed, lack of fair compensation in case of expropriation, lack of clear government policy to regulate land market, improper land valuation system, traditional, complex and cumbersome procedure, lack of coordination between land administration organizations, poor management of land records, manual recording system, lack of one stop shopping, difficult to retrieve land information, lack of skilled manpower, misuse of public land, lack of national policy to provide land to the landless and poor people and protection of rights of the indigeneous people are the major problems identified from the study. Formulation of national land policy and land use policy addressing all land issues, improvement in registration system, simplification of procedures, integration of land administration organizations, digitization of land records, establishment of National Spatial Data Infrastructure, providing online services and hiring trained manpower/providing training to existing manpower are some of the measures for improvement in the existing land administration system of Nepal.
Optimizing Orientation by GCP Refinement of Very High Resolution IKONOS Satellite Images
Authors: Adhikari Madhusudan
Published: September 2021

The Rational Polynomial Coefficients (RPC) provided with the IKONOS images contains a large error and they need Ground Control Point (GCP) refinement. To present the technique of refinement of RPCs by the application of some appropriate transformation algorithm with some suitable number of GCPs in proper constellation in an optimal way to achieve high geometric accuracy during spatial data acquisition from IKONOS stereo image is the objective of this paper. From this study it was found that GCP refinement of RPCs by affine transformation with four GCPs in proper constellation is optimal for the orientation of the image pair under study, it was also found that at least two redundant GCPs are necessary for proper refinement by a particular transformation algorithm.
It’s all Greek to me: Explaining, computing, and summarizing traditional and (re)emerging metrics of reliability for seven measures in sexual science
Authors: Gauvin Stéphanie E. M. , Merwin Kathleen E. , Maxwell Jessica A. , Kilimnik Chelsea D. , Sakaluk John Kitchener
Published: September 2021

Sexual scientists typically default to appraising the reliability of their self-report measures by calculating one or more α coefficients. Despite the prolific use of α, few researchers understand how to situate and make sense of α within the psychometric theories used to develop the measures used in their research (e.g., latent variable theory) and many unknowingly violate the assumptions of α. In this paper, we describe the disconnect between α and latent variable theory and the subsequent restrictive assumptions α makes. Simultaneously, we introduce an alternative metric of reliability—omega (ɷ)—that is compatible with latent variable theory. Subsequently, we provide a tutorial to walk readers through didactic examples on how to calculate ɷ metrics of reliability using the getOmega() function—a simple open-source function we created to automate the estimation of ɷ. We then introduce the Measurement of Sexuality and Intimacy Constructs (MoSaIC) project to provide insight into the state of reliability in sexuality science. We do this through contrasting α and ɷ estimates of reliability across seven sexuality measures, selected based on their emerging and pre-existing relevance and influence in the field of sexuality, in both a queer (LGBTQ+) sample ( n = 545) and a United States’ representative sample ( n = 548). We finish our paper with pragmatic suggestions for editors, reviewers, and authors. By more deeply understanding one’s options of reliability metrics, sexual scientists may carefully consider how they present and assess their measures’ reliability, and ultimately help improve our science’s replicability.
К ВОПРОСУ О ВЗАИМОДЕЙСТВИИ АСПИРАНТУРЫ И РЫНКА ТРУДА
Authors:   Кандидат педагогических наук, доцент, заместитель начальника Управления подготовки кадров высшей квалификации ФГБОУ ВО «Уральский государственный медицинский университет», Екатеринбург, Россия, Капшутарь М. А.
Published: September 2021

The article analyzes the state of training of highly qualified personnel in graduate school from the point of view of analyzing the first results of the implementation of its new model. The problem of interaction of the education system, the labor market and the social behavior of young people is identified. The main trends in the field of postgraduate training are identified. The search for a new content of the educational program is associated with a modern interpretation of the understanding of the goals and results of the postgraduate program. The main labor markets for postgraduate graduates and the leading competencies demanded by these markets are considered. The problem of academic inbreeding in Russian universities is revealed. The study actualized the need to develop an educational program of postgraduate studies that is adequate to the new conditions of its work and takes into account the goals and needs of all participants in this process, implemented at the intersection of education, science and business.
FINANCING AND EFFECTIVENESS OF GEORGIAN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
Authors:   Doctor of Business administration, Invited Professor, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia, Meparishvili Davit , Maridashvili Manana ,   Doctor of Business administration, Professor, Georgian National University, Tbilisi, Georgia, Sanikidze Ekaterine ,   Doctoral student of Business administration, Georgian Technical University. Tbilisi, Georgia
Published: September 2021

Assessing the effectiveness of the Georgian healthcare system in the modern period and conditions, takes into account the results achieved, as well as the main problems that hinder the effective functioning of this important field; At the same time, it is important to develop the main directions of their solution, where we consider the improvement of the state policy-making process during the implementation of reforms in the healthcare sector, which should take into account the state of health of the population, quality of healthcare services, results, health care; furthermore disease prevention, equality, financial provision, access to health care, efficiency, rational allocation of health care system resources and other key features of the health care system.
Effect of Installation of Alcohol Gel Dispensers and Behavioral Nudges on Behavioral Drivers for Hand Hygiene: A Quasi-Experimental Study at a Tertiary Hospital during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Naknual Sommanas , Kliangkird Nanta , Liabsuetrakul Tippawan , Wichaidit Wit
Published: September 2021

Objective: To compare the level of hand hygiene behavioral drivers before and after installation of alcohol gel dispensers and behavioral nudges among outpatients and visitors at a tertiary hospital in Thailand during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.Material and Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among outpatients and visitors in June 2020. We installed 12 alcohol gel dispensers with signs serving as behavioral nudges at a tertiary hospital in the Internal Medicine Outpatient Department (OPD), Surgery OPD, and the Pharmacy. We trained enumerators to interview outpatients and visitors regarding their behavioral drivers (beliefs about COVID-19 and hand hygiene based on the health belief model, plus handwashing social norms). We analyzed data using descriptive statistics.Results: Enumerators recruited 206 participants in the pre-intervention phase (refusal rate = 37.6%) and 219 participants in the post-intervention phase (refusal rate = 32.2%). There were significant differences between the pre-intervention and post-intervention phases with regard to self-efficacy for hand hygiene (92.0% vs. 100%, respectively), perceived lack of barriers to hand hygiene with alcohol (93.2% vs. 98.2%, respectively), and the proportion of participants who reported that hand hygiene had become a habit (7.5 vs. 18.8%, respectively). Reports of other domains of health beliefs (perceived severity of COVID-19, perceived benefits of handwashing) were homogeneous in both periods.Conclusion: We found differences in perceived lack of barriers and reported habit of hand hygiene but while self-efficacy was homogeneous in both periods. Issues regarding selection bias, construct validity, and generalizability may limit the usefulness of the study data. Caveats should be considered in the interpretation of the study findings.
Studies on Nearctic species of Leucopis (Diptera: Chamaemyiidae). III. L. annulipes Zetterstedt and a new sibling species from the Nearctic
Authors: Tanasijtshuk V.N.
Published: September 2021

Two sibling species of Chamaemyiidae are considered: a new species, Leucopis decipiens sp. n. from the Nearctic, and L. annulipes Zetterstedt, 1848, widespread in the Palaearctic and the Nearctic.
Military-Political Cooperation between Japan and ASEAN: New Trends
Authors:   Institute of oriental studies, Russian academy of sciences (MOSCOW), Dobrinskaya Olga A.
Published: September 2021

The article covers key motives and characteristics of current Japan’s strategy in SEA. The new stage of Japan - ASEAN cooperation is based on Japan’s desire to counterbalance China’s influence, increase its presence in the sub-region and find opportunities to export its defense production.
Indonesian Islamists' Information Agenda in early 2021: Islamism at a Crossroads
Authors:   Voronezh State University, Voronezh, Russia, Kyrchanoff Maksym W.
Published: September 2021

The author analyses the problems of Islamist media activities in Indonesia in the first months of 2021. It is assumed that by the end of 2020, a new stage in the history of Indonesian radical Islam began. The prohibition of the Front of the Defenders of Islam and the arrest of its leader Muhammad Rizieq Shihab institutionalised the situation of organisational and ideological uncertainty in radical Islam. It is assumed that “Salam Online” at the early 2021 monopolised the promotion of Islamists opinion in society, when other media minimised their activity. The FPI formally ceased its activities, the Islamists, temporarily lost their leader and the ability to operate using a legal public organisation. The situation of institutional uncertainty did not affect the activity of the Islamist media. In general, the author believes that Islamist media chosen the tactic of waiting, since the prospects for the consolidation of the Islamist political discourse and the possible trajectories of the development of Islamic radicalism remain uncertain.
The Taiwan Factor in Cambodian-China Relations
Authors:   Institute of oriental studies, Russian academy of sciences (MOSCOW), Kucherenko Grigory N.
Published: September 2021

Cambodia has been developing relations with China for decades, now both countries are perceived as stable partners, the kingdom supports Beijing on a number of international issues, including the status of Taiwan, but this state of affairs was not always the case. From its independence until 1997, Cambodia made several attempts to establish relations with Taipei in pursuit of its foreign policy goals. This article examines the specifics of relations between Cambodia and the PRC through the prism of interaction between Cambodia and Taiwan.
The Image of the Aboriginal Australians in the Reflection of Modern Media
Authors:   Institute of oriental studies, Russian academy of sciences (MOSCOW), Pale Sophia E. , Drugomilova Maria A. ,   Institute of oriental studies, Russian academy of sciences (MOSCOW)
Published: September 2021

Media has a huge impact on the perception of particular information. Sometimes, the average person’s knowledge about the world is formed by video rather than by text content. This article describes how media represents Aboriginal Australians’ life through two documentary series shot by the Australian filmmakers in the latest years.
Democratic Trends in Foreign and Domestic Policy of Post-Reformation Indonesia: Historical Aspect
Authors:   RUDN University, Russia, Moscow, Kuklin Nikita S.
Published: September 2021

Liberal democracy, the theory of a democratic world and a number of other liberal theories today are strongly associated with the Western world and the globalization model of development. Critics of this trend draw attention to the need to take into account objective differences in approaches to the perception of democracy in different countries and sociocultural communities. Indonesia is one of the most striking examples of the distinctive perception of democracy at different socio-political levels, which manifests itself both in national ideology and in the people's consciousness. This article is supposed to consider the Indonesian approaches to the definition of democracy and their impact on the implementation of Indonesia's foreign policy in the world arena based on these basic foundations.
Leave Against Medical Advice amongst Pediatric Patients Admitted in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital in Nepal: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Basnet Sahisnuta , B.K Ganesh , Ansari Aslam , Adhikari Suraj
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Leave against medical advice has a potentially deleterious effect on the health of a child. This is particularly alarming in case of pediatric patients as they are unable to understand the implications of it and rely on parents to make decisions regarding their health. This study was undertaken to find out the prevalence of leave against medical advice among pediatric patients admitted in a tertiary teaching hospital in Nepal. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Manipal Teaching Hospital between August 2019 and July 2020. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee (Ref: 256). Convenient sampling method was used. Data entry and analysis was done on Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23. Point estimate at 95% Confidence Interval was calculated along with frequency and proportion for binary data.Results: Out of 1608 pediatric admissions taken in our study, the prevalence of leave against medical advice was found to be 67 (4.2%) at 95% Confidence Interval (3.22-5.18). Maximum 22 (33%) and minimum 6 (9%) patients respectively belonged to the age group from birth to 7 days and more than 10 years. Out of 67 cases, there were 36 (54%) males and 31 (46%) females.Conclusions: The prevalence of leave against medical advice among admitted pediatric patients in our study was similar to that of other studies. It is a social health problem which can be prevented by increasing the awareness and facilitating the use of health insurance schemes. More effective communication is required between the treating physicians and the parents to prevent this detrimental practice.
Alopecia Universalis Associated with Hyperthyroidism Treated with Azathioprine and Hydroxychloroquine: A Case Report
Authors: Paudel Vikash , Chudal Deepa , Pradhan Manish Bhakta , Thakur Rupa , Pandey Buddhi Raj
Published: September 2021

Alopecia universalis is an uncommon form of alopecia areata involving hair loss over the entire scalp and body. This condition is difficult to treat and sustain the growth of hair for longer duration. We report a case of alopecia universalis associated with severe hyperthyroidism. A lady in her fourth decade presented to us with gradual onset of alopecia universalis, who later found to have hyperthyroidism which was refractory to multiple treatment modalities. She was treated successfully with azathioprine and hydroxychloroquine. Alopecia universalis with less response to oral steroidtherapy was successfully managed with azathioprine with hydroxychloroquine.
Meropenem Resistance among Acinetobacter Positive Clinical Samples in a Tertiary Care Centre in Nepal: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sharma Nisha , Thapa Bibechan , Acharya Ashirbad , Raghubanshi Bijendra Raj
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Antimicrobial-resistant Acinetobacter species are implicated in a variety of infections including nosocomial bacteraemia, secondary meningitis, and urinary tract infections. Carbapenem including meropenem-resistant Acinetobacter is recognized as one of the most difficult antimicrobial resistant gram-negative bacilli to control and treat. It was classified as an urgent threat by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2019 Antibiotic Resistance Threats Report. This study was carriedout to determine the prevalence of meropenem resistance among acinetobacter positive clinical samples in a tertiary care centre.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in microbiology department of Clinical Laboratory Services among Acinetobacter positive clinical samples of a tertiary care center in Nepal. The culture and sensitivity reports of various clinical samples from April 2018 to April 2020 which were positive for Acinetobacter species were taken from hospital records section. Convenience sampling was done. Meropenem-resistant Acinetobacter samples were studied. Ethical approval was received from Institutional Review Committee (Ref No. 076/77/40). Analysis of data was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26. Point estimate at 95% Confidence Interval calculated with ferquency.
Results: Out of 121 Acinetobacter isolates, prevalence of meropenem-resistant Acinetobacter was reported in 93 (76.9%) at 95% Confidence Interval (69.39-84.40). Among the meropenem-resistant Acinetobacter samples, most of the samples were collected from the sputum 70 (75.2%) followed by blood 8 (8.6%).
Conclusions: High prevalence of meropenem-resistant Acinetobacter species in our hospital setting is alarming. In addition, there is emergence of resistance against even the last resort drugs which is creating a treatment crisis.
Anemia among Adolescent Girls Attending the Pediatric Outpatient Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bhandari Bikash , Kachapati Anuja , Lamichhane Kavita , Khadka Gaurab
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Adolescents are children aged 10-19 years. Nutrition influences the growth and development during infancy, childhood and adolescence. Adolescent girls are at higher risk of anemia and undernutrition. This research was aimed to find the prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls in a tertiary care hospital.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done in the adolescent girls attending the pediatric outpatient department of a tertiary care centre from October 2020 to May 2021. After the ethical clearance from the institutional review committee, 380 adolescent girls were taken using a convenient sampling technique. Anthropometric measurements, social demography and blood for hemoglobin estimation were taken and documented in predesigned proforma. Data were analyzed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20. Point estimate at 95% Confidence Interval was done, and frequency and proportion were calculated.
Results: Out of 380 adolescent girls, 230 (60.5%) at 95% Confidence Interval (55.56-65.41) were anemic with mean hemoglobin of 11.138±1.954 gm/dl. The mean age was 14.57±2.107 years.
Conclusions: This study showed a higher prevalence of anemia than the national data. Proper education regarding personal and menstrual hygiene, weekly supplementation of iron in school, dietary habits and uplifting of economic status can prevent anemia in this population.
Cannabis Use and Abuse in Nepal: A Review of Studies
Authors: Shakya Dhana Ratna , Upadhaya Sandesh Raj , Thapa Milan
Published: September 2021

Nepal is a geographically, ecologically, bio-culturally and ethnically diverse country. Cannabis has been a flora, used in various forms and ways and its effect has been variably a matter of concern in Nepal. Perception to its use has also been changing with time with the dynamics of various factors and trends around and in the world. The views of its proponents at times appear with relatively more powerful influence among people though the views of the opponents seem less, and relatively less influential. Proponents advocate for its legalization with highlights of its different uses and benefits whereas opponents, mainly mental health professionals point out sporadically its adverse consequences, mainly in psychological health. The purpose of this review is to explore the existing literature regarding cannabis use and abuse in Nepal. Search for articles for this review was performed in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Nepal Journal Online. We summarize and discuss about cannabis in various aspects in the Nepalese context. The overarching objective is to reflect upon the ongoing debate regarding its harm and benefits, thereby upon the issue of its legalization in Nepal.
The Yentl Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Khan Barkadin , Basnet Anjan Kumar
Published: September 2021

Cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, is one of the most common causes of death and disability in both sexes. The traditional concept of ischemic heart disease as a “man’s disease” is debunked. Yentl syndrome is used to describe the underdiagnosis of ischemic heart disease in females and its associated effects. This article reports a 48-year-old female presented to the emergency department with acute epigastric discomfort. Her initial diagnostic tests did not reveal any abnormalities, and she was discharged. Subsequently, after four days, she again visited the emergency department with chest pain, the evaluation of which furthermore revealed no abnormalities. However, we admitted her. After 40 hours of hospitalization, her evaluation revealed anterior wall ST elevation myocardial infarction, and she underwent emergent reperfusion via coronary catheterization. This combination of atypical signs and symptoms and chances of delayed manifestations in the diagnostic investigations provides evidence for a need for thorough assessment in a female with chest pain.
Hoarseness of Voice following Left Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block: A Case Report
Authors: Shrestha Subin , Regmi Sadikshya , Deo Gopendra , Shrestha Indra Narayan
Published: September 2021

Supraclavicular brachial plexus block is extensively used for primary regional anaesthesia as well as postoperative analgesia for the surgical procedures of the upper limb. The evidence for the use of ultrasound in supraclavicular brachial plexus is growing day by day as it has the advantage of allowing real time visualisation of the plexus, pleura and vessels along with the needle and local anaesthetics spread. Despite this, complications can even arise with ultrasound guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Hoarseness of voice due to recurrent laryngeal nerve block is a rare complication of supraclavicular brachial plexus block. There are few reported cases of hoarseness of voice following the right supraclavicular block. There is only one reported case of hoarseness of voice following the left supraclavicular block. Here, we report a case of a 16-year-old boy who developed hoarseness of voice due to left recurrent laryngeal nerve following ultrasound guided left supraclavicular brachialplexus block.
Child Neurodevelopment and Parental Involvement in the Educational Process
Authors: Sialer Alarcón Jannet Alicia , Bustamante de Ordinola María del Pilar
Published: September 2021

During the first years of life human beings lay the foundations for neurysiological development. It is important that during early childhood a quality education is provided together with favorable living conditions that allow a harmonious development of the child’s personality. The main purpose of this review is to improve the participation of mothers and fathers in the educational process of early education students, based on child neurodevelopment, in order to strengthen the family-school bond, and thereby improve the teaching and learning process of children. The method used in the systematization of information was the deductive method, with a quantitative, qualitative and mixed approach. It is concluded that it is essential to achieve educational objectives, the participation of parents in the educational process of early education students. It was also identified that the families most involved with the school and most committed to education have better performing children. It is recommended to continue the review of such articles to increase and improve the participation of mothers and fathers in the educational process of early education students.
The Linear Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex in Normal Subjects and Patients with Vestibular and Cerebellar Lesions
Authors: Baloh Robert W. , Yue Qing , Demer Joseph L.
Published: September 2021

We measured the horizontal linear vestibulo-ocular reflex (LVOR) in normal human subjects and patients with abnormal angular vestibulo-ocular reflexes (AVOR) and abnormal smooth pursuit. Eye movements were induced by sinusoidal linear acceleration along the interaural axis (0.8 Hz, 0.5 g peak acceleration) on a parallel swing. Horizontal movement of each eye was recorded with an infrared limbus tracking device. Normal subjects increased LVOR sensitivity as real or imagined targets moved closer. Perceived target distance was more important than the vergence angle since changing the vergence angle alone with prisms resulted in only a slight change in LVOR sensitivity. Subjects suppressed the LVOR with real or imagined head-fixed targets. Patients with decreased horizontal AVOR responses had decreased horizontal LVOR responses with imagined earth-fixed targets in the dark. They were able to generate normal velocity LVOR responses with real earth-fixed targets. Patients with increased AVOR responses and poor smooth pursuit due to cerebellar atrophy had low LVOR responses that were minimally affected by real or imagined earth-fixed or head-fixed targets. We conclude that the smooth pursuit system and the cerebellum are critical for generating the eye movements required as subjects fixate a near target during translational head movements.
Folate cycle genetics, level of homocysteine, thyroid and pituitary hormones in the blood among the children from the districts bordering the Chornobyl exclusion zone
Authors:   Ecology and Health Coordination and Analytical Centre, Ivankiv, Bandazhevskyi Yu.I. , Dubova N.F. ,   P. L. Shupyk National Medical Academy for Post-Graduate Education
Published: September 2021

Objective: The aim of the study was to identify interrelations between the state of folate cycle genetic apparatus and blood levels of homocysteine, thyroid and adenohypophysis hormones in the blood among the children from Ivankivskyi and Poliskyi districts, Kyiv region, bordering the Chornobyl exclusion zone (СhEZ). Methods: Immunochemical, genetic, statistical ones. Results: We measured blood levels of homocysteine (Hcy), pituitary thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (T3), free thyroxine (T4) in 158 children from Poliskyi district and 178 children from Ivankivskyi district and assessed the state of a genetic system of the folate cycle (FC). The average age of the examined was (15.2 ± 0.9) years old (95% CI 15.0-15.4 years old). Taking into account the FC genotypes, genetic subgroups were formed, they were based on 100% representation of one specific genotype. The laboratory examination was carried out twice: in April and December 2015 (before and after the fires in the ChEZ). It was found out that in the total group of the children, as well as in most of analyzed genetic subgroups, the level of Hcy and thyroid hormones (TG) in the children from Ivankivskyi district was statistically significantly higher than in those from Poliskyi district. At the same time, a direct association between Hcy and TSH was observed in the total group, as well as in most of the genetic subgroups of children from Ivankivskyi district, and this ssociation was absent in the children from Poliskyi district. The blood level of Hcy both in the children from Poliskyi district and in the children from Ivankivskyi district was statistically significantly higher in the subgroup containing only homozygous variants of the T allele of the MTHFR:677 genetic polymorphism in comparison with the subgroups containing neutral C alleles of the same polymorphism. At the same time, there were no differences for TSH, T3 and T4. Сonclusions: The analysis enabled to establish a synchronous reaction of metabolic cycles ensuring the metabolism of Hcy and thyroid hormones in the adolescents, regardless of the FC genotypes. Correlation analysis, as well as the results of statistical analysis, indicate that an increase in the level of Hcy in the blood of children induced the synthesis of TSH and T3. The results show a close relationship between thyroid hormone genesis and the metabolism of methionine sulfur-containing amino acids and Hcy. A forest fire, containing long-lived radioactive elements, is the most likely reason for the increase of Hcy level and, as a result, the hormones of the pituitary-thyroid axis in the blood of the children living in the districts, bordering the ChEZ.
On the issue of ensuring the safety of the hospital environment
Authors:   O.O. Bohomolets National Medical University, Yavorovskyi О.P. , Skaletskyi Yu.M. ,   State Institution "O.M. Marzіeiev Institute for Public Health of the NAMSU", Brukhno R.P. ,   O.O. Bohomolets National Medical University, Rygan M.M. ,   National University of Ukraine on Physical Education and Sport, Zinchenko T.О. ,   O.O. Bohomolets National Medical University, Taran N.V. ,   O.O. Bohomolets National Medical University
Published: September 2021

Objective: We identified the main occupational hazards in the hospital environment and determined their role in the formation of the safety of medical personnel at healthcare institutions. Materials and methods: We applied the bibliosemantic, questionnaire, hygienic and statistical research methods. Results: In the course of the labour activity at the health care institutions (HCI), the medical workers are exposed to the risk of negative effects of biological, psychophysiological, chemical, physical and social harmful and dangerous factors. The biological and psychophysiological factors are the most harmful factors. The adverse occupational factors of the hospital environment do not have an isolated effect, but have a complex, combined and joint effect, and their priority varies depending on the specificity of medical speciality. Under conditions of COVID-19 pandemic, the risk of the negative impact of production environment factors on the medical personnel at the HCI has been increased. In particular, the risk of infection with pathogens of infectious diseases increases, the work load, psycho-emotional tension, the duration of the use of personal protective equipment and the frequency of contact with the disinfectant solutions increase, the probability of violence, harassment, stigmatization, and discrimination related to the professional affiliation of health care personnel increases. The lack of a safety culture is one of the most important mechanisms for launching and realizing the dangers of a hospital environment, and just a creation of positive practice of a safety culture at work can significantly reduce the risks of realizing potential hazards that exist at health care institutions. Conclusion: The identification of the dangers of the hospital environment with the formation of a comprehensive understanding of their importance for the ensurance of the safety for medical personnel is an urgent task for modern medical science and will make it possible to develop reasonably the measures aimed at the ensurance of the safety of the hospital environment in terms of the safety of medical personnel.
IMPLEMENTASI BLENDED LEARNING DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEMANDIRIAN SISWA PADA MASA PANDEMI COVID 19 DI SMA SEJEHTERA PRIGEN
Authors: Umam Ahmad Za'imul , Syafi'i Imam
Published: September 2021

Pembelajaran online yang sudah cukup lama dilakukan akibat pandemi covid 19 meninggalkan berbagai kendala dan masalah. Kendala dan masalah tersebut mengakibatkan pembelajaran yang dilakukan tidak maksimal dan kurang efektif. Karena itu, perlu adanya inovasi untuk mengurai permasalahan yang telah lama menimpa pembelajaran online di sekolah. Salah satu inovasi yang dilakukan SMA Sejahtera Prigen adalah menerapkan model blended learning. Peniliti mengkaji penerapan tersebut dengan pendekatan kualitatif deskritif. Dan peniliti menemukan bahwa  penerapan blended learning di SMA Sejahtera Prigen cukup memberikan hasil yang memuaskan, karena dengan model tersebut sekolah dapat menemukan solusi dari beberapa kendala saat pembelajaran online, diantaranya adalah Terbangunnya komunikasi yang efektif, mengurai kejenuhan, mengejar ketertinggalan, serta mempermudah pemahaman materi. Dengan begitu dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan blended learning di SMA Sejahtera Prigen cukup efektif untuk meminimalisir permalasahan pembelajaran online pada masa pandemi covid 19, sekaligus meningkatkan kemandirian siswa dalam tanggung jawab belajarnya.
ASPEK SUSTAINABILITAS DI PERGURUAN TINGGI ISLAM: ANTARA KONSEP DAN PRAKTIK KEPEMIMPINAN BERKELANJUTAN
Authors: Haekal Muhammad
Published: September 2021

Penelitian kualitatif ini mengkaji implementasi isu sustainabilitas di perguruan tinggi Islam di Aceh, Indonesia. Metodologi penelitian ini menggunakan kajian dokumen serta observasi sebagai unsur utama. Untuk analisis data, peneliti mengombinasikan metrik sustainabilitas LaTrobe University dan konsep Three Levels of Culture Edgar Schein. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan perguruan tinggi sampel belum memiliki konsep yang nyata terkait isu sustainabilitas, namun memiliki implementasi yang samar-samar pada aspek 'sustainabilitas tersembunyi'. Penelitian ini merekomendasikan agar perguruan tinggi mulai memikirkan aspek sustainabilitas secara serius guna memberikan manfaat yang nyata, khususnya di aspek lingkungan serta sosial-ekonomi.