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Despite the rigorous global efforts to control SARS-CoV-2 transmission, it continues to pose a serious threat to humans with the frequent emergence of new variants. Thus, robust therapeutics to combat the virus are a desperate need. The SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein is an important target protein as it mediates the entry of the virus inside the host cells, which is initiated by the binding of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) to its cognate receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2). Herein, the inhibition potential of several naturally occurring coumarins was investigated against the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 variants using computational approaches. Molecular docking studies revealed 26 coumarins with better binding energies than the reference ligands, molnupiravir and ceftazidime, against the S-RBD of the omicron variant. The top 10 best-docked coumarins were further analyzed to understand their binding interactions against the spike proteins of other variants (wild-type, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta), and these studies also demonstrated decent binding energies. Physicochemical, QSAR, and pharmacokinetics analyses of the coumarins revealed wedelolactone as the best inhibitor of the spike protein with ideal Lipinski’s drug-likeness and optimal ADMET properties. Furthermore, coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies of spike protein-wedelolactone complexes validated the stable binding of wedelolactone in the respective binding pockets. As an outcome, wedelolactone could be utilized to develop a potent drug candidate against COVID-19 by blocking the viral entry into the host cell.

A better understanding of spatial distribution of groundwater level is necessary for the development of groundwater development strategies and sustainable use of available resources. The present study evaluates the spatial distribution of groundwater level over the Morang Administrative District of Eastern Nepal and the groundwater accessibility over the area. The study was realized by performing an extensive field survey of groundwater level during the post-monsoon season over 126 sites. The study area of 1224.80 km2 was gridded at 3 km x 3 km horizontal grid resolution and at least one survey was ensured for each grid point. Downscaled spatial distribution of groundwater level was achieved by interpolating the observed data using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) with different weighting parameters available with the geostatistical module of ArcGIS. The performances of the interpolation methods were evaluated based on the cross-validation of results characterized by the statistical parameters RMSE, R2 and MAE and optimal power (α) for weighting function. The IDW (with α=4) appears to perform well for the study area with Coefficient of Determination (R2) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) values of 0.336, 4.750 and 2.967, respectively. The spatial distribution of groundwater level over the low-lands of Morang District mapped with the IDW interpolation method, revealed that the ground water level is maximum in south-western part of the district. The depth to groundwater lies between the ranges of 4.5 to 10 meters covering almost 67.47% of the total study area.

The knowledge and an accurate representation of the spatial distribution of groundwater depth of an area are very important to realize sustainable use of groundwater resource, protection of ecosystem and for the development of adaptation policies in the changing climate. The present study has, thus, developed a groundwater depth distribution map of southern low-lands of the Sunsari District at the horizontal grid resolution of 3 km × 3 km. The groundwater depths were surveyed at predefined 82 numbers of geo-referenced grid points scattered over the region during the post monsoon season of the year 2019. Referencing the sampled depths, spatial distribution of the groundwater depth over the area has been predicted using the Ordinary Kriging Method. Three widely used Semivariogram modules such as Spherical, Exponential, and Gaussian were implemented. The Gaussian model of Semivariogram outperformed the other methods with R2 of 0.336, RMSE of 2.591, and MAE of 1.946. The predicted spatial distribution of groundwater depth reasonably well correlated with the observed distribution. The spatial distribution of groundwater level suggests that 12.36% the total area, particularly, over the western, southwestern and northern parts hold groundwater at much shallower depth (< 5 m). Over 51.59 % of the total area in the southeastern and northeastern parts, the groundwater level remained below 8 m from the ground and the rest of the total area holds the groundwater deeper than 8 m.

Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHV) in Nepal have identified lack of appropriate training as a barrier to involvement in the COVID 19 response. With more than 50,000 FCHVs serving rural areas of Nepal, they are instrumental in healthcare and are a major source of information delivery to those with the most limited health-care access in Nepal. This communication describes an innovative training programme to rapidly equip FCHVs with knowledge on COVID 19 response. The ongoing programme leverages partnerships between local municipalities and a local community-based organisation and has rapidly trained more than 300 FCHVs across four districts with a population of 1,000,000, and has plans to expand the training across the country. This training programme is a key example of how local partnerships can be utilised for digital training of FCHVs in remote parts of Nepal and leveraged to strengthen response capacity during the pandemic.

The in silico method has provided a versatile process of developing lead compounds from a large database in a short duration. Therefore, it is imperative to look for vaccinations and medications that can stop the havoc caused by SARS-CoV-2. The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is required for the viral entry into the host cells, hence inhibiting the virus from fusing and infecting the host. This study determined the binding interactions of 36 flavonoids along with two FDA-approved drugs against the spike protein receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 through molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In addition, the molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA) approach was used to calculate the binding-free energy (BFE). Flavonoids were selected based on their in vitro assays on SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. Our pharmacokinetics study revealed that cyanidin showed good drug-likeness, fulfilled Lipinski’s rule of five, and conferred favorable toxicity parameters. Furthermore, MD simulations showed that cyanidin interacts with spike protein and alters the conformation and binding-free energy suited. Finally, an in vitro assay indicated that about 50% reduction in the binding of hACE2 with S1-RBD in the presence of cyanidin-containing red grapes crude extract was achieved at approximately 1.25 mg/mL. Hence, cyanidin may be a promising adjuvant medication for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein based on in silico and in vitro research.

Unnatural amino acids have gained significant attention in protein engineering and drug discovery as they allow the evolution of proteins with enhanced stability and activity. The incorporation of unnatural amino acids into proteins offers a rational approach to engineer enzymes for designing efficient biocatalysts that exhibit versatile physicochemical properties and biological functions. This review highlights the biological and synthetic routes of unnatural amino acids to yield a modified protein with altered functionality and their incorporation methods. Unnatural amino acids offer a wide array of applications such as antibody-drug conjugates, probes for change in protein conformation and structure–activity relationships, peptide-based imaging, antimicrobial activities, etc. Besides their emerging applications in fundamental and applied science, systemic research is necessary to explore unnatural amino acids with novel side chains that can address the limitations of natural amino acids.

Synthesis, characterization, and ultrafast dynamics of porphyrin- and zinc porphyrin-based nanomaterials are reported. Spherical nanoparticles composed of a group of uniform materials based on orga...

Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) is exportable high value sub-sector of Nepal producing to sell in targeted international markets. This research was done to examine value chain analysis of large cardamom from governance and trade aspects, focusing on value chain map, export scenario, and technology upgrading in eastern Himalayan road corridor (EHRC) of Nepal. Farm level information was collected from Taplejung, Jhapa and Morang districts using set of questionnaire (n=300). Focus Group Discussion, Key Informant Interview and Rapid Market Appraisal were done with enablers and traders. About 32% samples household were commercial farmers having one or more than one hectare cardamom cultivation land. About 27% households used improved dryer for curing and drying whereas majority used (72%) traditional dryer. The cost of production of one kg cardamom was estimated NRs. 656, and farmers received NRs. 344 profit margin from one kg of large cardamom sold at farm. Due to global price fluctuation, price of large cardamom has been declined drastically, although farmers are still in profit with B/C ratio of more than 1.4. The findings revealed that value chain development of large cardamom is not well structural at function, actors and enablers level whereas village/district level collectors, regional and national traders with their association and exporters were performing better marketing instead of governance of small scale producers. About 90% large cardamom was exported to India. Nepalese traders have a poor capacity and governance to export product in other counties than India due to high entry barrier to global market. There is a potential of forming global value chain development alliance, focusing to financing and upgrading strategy that would be pivotal for large cardamom intervention strategy in improving value chain function.

Low and unbalanced fertilizer application rate are the major factors contributing to the poor yield of wheat in Nepal. The Site Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) provides the field specific recommendations in a cost effective and precise manner. A field experiment was done at National Wheat Research Program (NWRP), Bhairahawa, Rupandehi, Nepal during 2019- 20 to evaluate the site specific nutrient management approaches in order to enhance wheat productivity. The SSNM dose was determined at NWRP by using omission plot techniques. The calculated SSNM dose (148:65:71 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1), was compared with SSNM + Zn + B, (148:65:71:5:1 N: P2O5:K2O Zn : B kg ha-1), Research recommended dose (RRD, 150:50:50 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1); National recommended dose (NRD, 100:50:25 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1), Nutrients expert dose (NED,110:50:73 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1), and farmers dose (FD, 80: 40:15 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1) in a RCB design with four replications. The data on growth, yield attributes and yield were collected and analyzed using Genstat Statistical package. Results showed that research recommended dose (RRD) along with SSNM dose and SSNM +Zn +B were statistically similar (p>0.05), but these treatments were comparatively superior over rest of the treatments for yield attributes and yield. Hence it can be concluded that wheat yield can be improved through adoption of SSNM and RRD of fertilizers at Bhairahawa condition.

Safe flights over the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, Nepal, remain a considerable challenge. Since the airport opened, there have been 13 aircraft accidents during landings and takeoffs that have claimed 392 lives. A detailed understanding and dependable forecast of atmospheric conditions that may develop over the complex terrain of the midhills of central Nepal Himalaya are yet to be achieved. The present study discusses the near-surface atmospheric conditions possibly associated with the most recent fatal crash at TIA on 12 March 2018 as revealed by the Advanced Research version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) Model routine forecast. At the time of the accident, two prominent gap winds were converging in the valley, thereby, forming a crosswind and a mix of strong up- and downdrafts over the airfield. As a result, the near-surface atmosphere was significantly turbulent. Unexpected encounters with such turbulent winds are a likely contributor to the fatal crash. This indicates that the knowledge of near-surface atmospheric conditions, critically needed by pilots in advance, for safe operations over the airfield may be generated with WRF-ARW forecasts.

An experiment was conducted for response of nutrient omission to irrigation scheduling in hybrid maize during winter season of 2015 at farmer’s field Khajura, Banke where intense summer and severe winter occurs. Soil is sandy loam and climatically humid sub-tropical with average annual rainfall of 1000-1500 mm. The experiment was replicated 3 times with split plot design having plot size of 3 x 3.6 m2. There were three irrigation level as main plot; (30 -35 DAS, tasseling stage), (30-35 DAS, tasseling, grain filling stage), (tasseling stage) and six level of fertilizer dose as sub-plot; farmer fertilization practice (27.6:27.6:18 N-P-K kg ha-1), recommended dose of fertilizer (160:60:40 N-P-K kgha-1), 50 percent above recommended dose (240: 90: 60 N-P-K kg ha-1), N0PK (60:40 P-K kg ha-1), NP0K (160:40 N-K kg ha-1), NPK0 (160:60 N-P kg ha-1). 3 level of irrigation increased the grain yield (4333 kg ha-1) by 33.7% than 2 level of irrigation (3240.6 kg ha-1) and 78.4% than single irrigation (2428.8 kg ha-1). Similarly, 182.4% grain yield could be increased with RDF (4994.9 kg ha-1) than N0PK (1768.6 kg ha-1). Grain nutrient uptake was recorded 80.4% N (56.3 kg ha-1), 79% P (18.8 kg ha-1), 88.8% K (15.1 kg ha-1) higher with three levels of irrigation than single irrigation N (31.2 kg ha-1), P (10.5 kg ha-1), K (8 kg ha-1) and 184% N (64.6 kg ha-1), 183.7% P (21 kg ha-1) and 188% K (17 kg ha-1) was recorded higher with RDF than (N0PK) N (22.7 kg ha-1), P (7.4 kg ha-1), K (5.9 kg ha-1). Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 8(3): 343-354

Identification and quantification of stress and stress inducing factors are important components of animal welfare assessment and essential parts of poultry management. Measurement of the autonomic nervous system's influence on cardiac function using heart rate and heart rate variability (HR/HRV) indices can provide a non-invasive assessment of the welfare status of an animal. This paper presents a preliminary study showing the feasibility of continuous long-term measurement of HR/HRV indices in freely moving chicken. We developed and evaluated an electrocardiography (ECG) based HR/HRV recording system that can be used as a poultry wearable backpack for research studies. The backpack system was first validated against a commercial ECG amplifier, and the corresponding estimations of HR values matched well with each other. Then, an in vivo proof-of-concept experiment was conducted on floor-reared chickens to collect ECG data for 2 weeks. The extracted HR/HRV values show strong alignment with circadian patterns and well-defined sleep cycles. Wearable devices, like the backpack ECG system used in this study, may be best suited for application in freely moving poultry to get an insight into circadian abnormalities and sleep quality for stress and welfare management.

An experiment was conducted on farmer’s field in Khajura, Banke for site specific nutrient management (SSNM) in hybrid maize (Rajkumar) during winter season of 2016. The climatic condition of the experimental location was humid sub-tropical and sandy loam soil occurring intense summer and severe winter. Average annual rainfall of 1000 -1500 mm occurs in the location. The experiment was replicated 4 times in Randomized complete block design having plot size of 4.8 x 3 m2. Row to row spacing was maintained at 60 cm and plant to plant at 25 cm for each plot. There were six treatments including farmers fertilization practice (27.6:27.6:18 NP2O5K2O kgha-1) as a check, recommended dose of fertilizer (160:60:40 NP2O5K2O kgha-1), site specific nutrient management (212.9:66.8:280.8 NP2O5K2O kgha-1), 75% SSNM (372.6:116.9:491.4 NP2O5K2O kgha-1), FP-N, FP-P, SSNM-K (27.6:27.6:280.8 NP2O5K2O kgha-1) and SSNM-N, FP-P, FP-K (212.9:27.6:27.6 NP2O5K2O kgha-1). Among the treatment combination; application of SSNM we can increase the yield by 193% over farmer fertilization practice. Recommended dose of fertilizer and 75 percent SSNM also increase the yield by 138% and 130.4% respectively compared to farmer fertilization practice. 88% and 53.5% more increment could also be obtained through the application of only SSNM dose of nitrogen and SSNM dose of potassium respectively over farmer fertilization practice.

Actinomycetes are natural architects of numerous secondary metabolites including antibiotics. With increased multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, antibiotics that can combat such pathogens are urgently required to improve the health care system globally. The characterization of actinomycetes available in Nepal is still very much untouched which is the reason why this paper showcases the characterization of actinomycetes from Nepal based on their morphology, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and metabolic profiling. Additionally, antimicrobial assays and liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) of ethyl acetate extracts were performed. In this study, we employed a computational-based dereplication strategy for annotating molecules which is also time-efficient. Molecular annotation was performed through the GNPS server, the SIRIUS platform, and the available databases to predict the secondary metabolites. The sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that the isolates BN6 and BN14 are closely related to Streptomyces species. BN14 showed broad-spectrum antibacterial activity with the zone of inhibition up to 30 mm against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 0.3051 µg/mL and MBC: 9.7656 µg/mL) and Shigella sonnei (MIC: 0.3051 µg/mL and MBC: 4.882 µg/mL). Likewise, BN14 also displayed significant inhibition to Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella typhi. GNPS approach suggested that the extracts of BN6 and BN14 consisted of diketopiperazines ((cyclo(D-Trp-L-Pro), cyclo(L-Leu-L-4-hydroxy-Pro), cyclo(L-Phe-D-Pro), cyclo(L-Trp-L-Pro), cyclo(L-Val-L-Pro)), and polypeptide antibiotics (actinomycin D and X2). Additional chemical scaffolds such as bacterial alkaloids (bohemamine, venezueline B, and G), anthramycin-type antibiotics (abbeymycin), lipase inhibitor (ebelactone B), cytocidal (oxopropaline D), antifungal and antitumor antibiotics (reductiomycin, streptimidone, deoxynybomycin), alaremycin, fumaramidmycin, anisomycin, and others were also annotated, which were further confirmed by using the SIRIUS platform, and literature survey. Thus, the bioprospecting of natural products from Streptomyces species from Nepal could be a potential source for the discovery of clinically significant and new antimicrobial agents in the future.

SUMMARY: Within aviary systems, open litter areas are provided to allow hens to express a more robust behavioral repertoire. However, data is limited on the influence forage substrates have on environmental and egg microbiology. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of forage substrates on environmental and egg microbiology in aviary housing systems. Hens were housed in a commercial, cage-free multitier aviary with open litter areas, which contained one of three forage substrates (straw, artificial turf, and shavings) or bare concrete floors. Environmental and egg sampling occurred at hen ages: 25, 37, 51, and 64 wk. Drag swab aerobic bacteria levels from the litter area of the artificial turf group were lower (6.86 log cfu/mL) compared to the other substrate groups (P < 0.001; concrete: 7.39 log cfu/mL; straw: 7.40 log cfu/mL; shavings: 7.16 log cfu/mL) as the flocks aged. As the flocks aged, lower levels of yeasts and molds were observed in the litter area of the artificial turf group (6.72 log cfu/mL) compared to the other substrates (P < 0.02; concrete: 7.54 log cfu/mL; straw: 7.36 log cfu/mL; shavings: 7.61 log cfu/mL). No differences in Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Listeria spp. prevalence were observed between the substrate groups. Although aerobic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, yeasts and molds, and pathogens were present in the environment of the substrate groups, it did not impact egg microbiology. The lower microbial and yeasts and molds levels in this study suggest that artificial turf could be an appropriate forage substrate for commercial cage-free aviary housing, however further research is needed.

Zero tillage with crop residue retention which is principle of conservation agriculture (CA) can be a good practice to achieve sustainable and profitable crop yield without affecting soil fertility. This approach was not tested in wheat and lentil based maize-mungbean system in far western Nepal. The effect of CA in the maize-wheat-mungbean and maize-lentil-mungbean cropping systems with two varieties of each of wheat and lentil was studied at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Bhagetada, Dipayal, Doti district of Nepal for two years (2015 and 2016). The average grain yield of wheat and lentil under the CA system was 5.92% higher (2.86 t ha−1) than that of conventional agriculture (2.70 t ha−1). The CA under maize-wheat-mungbean cropping system produced 7.90% higher grain yield (4.78 t ha−1) compared to conventional agriculture and the CA under maize-lentil-mung bean cropping system gave11.11% higher grain yield (1.00 t ha−1). Maize-wheat-mungbean cropping system, conservation agriculture and WK 1204 variety of wheat produced 9.34% higher yield (4.80 t ha−1) than conventional agriculture whereas maize-lentil-mungbean cropping system, conservation agriculture and Khajura1 variety of lentil recorded 11.96% higher grain yield (1.03 t ha−1) than conventional agricultural. The CA system produced 114% higher net benefit (NRs. 40200 ha−1) than that of conventional agriculture. Higher yields of crops in CA system could be associated with improvement of soil properties for minimum soil disturbance and residue retention and profitable yield for reduced cost of production. Thus, the 2-year study suggests that no tillage with previous crop residues retention and use of higher yielding varieties is a potential crop cultivation approach for the maize based cropping system in light textured soil of river basin area of Nepal in order to sustain soil health, crop yield and farm economy. J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 16(3): 403–410, December 2018

This paper identified and examined the internal and external forces that enable or inhibit the performance of plant clinics in Nepal. The study used web-based online survey tool to collect primary information. Likert scaling and indexing techniques were used on data analysis. Pretested set of questionnaires were mailed to 209 plant doctors and the response rate was 54.54%. Being ninth country to initiate plant health clinics, Nepal is successful to adapt this novel approach into the existing extension system. It has increased access to plant health services by providing wide range of services at a place. However,limited understanding and only profit motive of local private agro-vet and input dealers has created some biased-understanding and un-trust with clinic organizers. This SWOT analysis clearly spells the scope of plant clinics to fulfill the gap between farmers need and existing services provided by public extension system.Journal of the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science.Vol. 33-34, 2015, page: 137-146

Although Ginger is the main cash crop for small farmers across the country, the economic condition is not satisfactory which can be attributed to high cost of product and low productivity. The study was conducted in four ginger growing areas of Palpa, Nepal in 2012, focusing on cost factors of various inputs. The study revealed that ginger production was profitable on cash cost basis (BCR 7.22). Seed have major cost share for ginger production (65.1%). The estimated coefficients of Cobb-Douglas production function showed that seed, labor and number of years for crop rotation were the significant factors for ginger production. The study concluded that ginger production can be made viable enterprise with increased focus on source seed production and distribution.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 42(4): 681-691, December 2017

SUMMARY: Producers and consumers associated with small scale backyard egg production tend to reuse egg cartons. Egg cartons are also reused for arts and craft projects, gardening, and organization units for small items. The reuse of egg cartons is primarily driven by economic or ecological reasons. The ability of zoonotic bacteria, such as Salmonella Enteritidis (SE), to survive on the eggshell surface and a variety of food packaging materials makes the reuse of egg carton risky. This study was aimed at determining the scope of cross-contamination of SE between eggshell and different egg carton types using 2 experiments. Unwashed eggs from end-of-lay white Leghorn hens were used in the experiments. Two different SE strains were used with 3 independent tubes of inocula from each strain as replicates. In Experiment 1, 216 eggs from each SE strain (72/replicate) were inoculated with 10 μL of SE inoculum (~ 9.95 log cfu/mL), allowed to dry in room temperature, and placed in nonadjacent wells of noninoculated plastic, polystyrene foam, and pulp egg cartons. Egg cartons of each type were then stored either at refrigeration (4°C) or room temperature (25°C). After 24 h eggs were discarded and the carton-wells were swabbed for SE recovery. In Experiment 2, wells of egg cartons were inoculated with SE and uninoculated eggs were placed in them and stored similar to Experiment 1. A total of 216 wells within the egg cartons were inoculated for each SE strain (72/replicate). Eggshell samples were collected for SE recovery. Only 3 samples were detected positive for SE in Experiment 1 and no effect of carton type, SE strain, or incubation temperature was observed. In Experiment 2, 8 eggshell samples were SE positive – 6 from polystyrene foam and 2 from plastic carton. Statistical difference was observed for pulp versus polystyrene foam only (P < 0.05). These results indicate that transfer of SE between egg carton and eggshell surface is possible and that the risk of cross-contamination is associated with type of carton material.

The adoption of Conservation agriculture (CA) contributes to sustainable production and its advantages include lower inputs and stable yields. This study was conducted in the research field of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Bhagetada, Dipayal, Doti during 2014 and 2015 to identify the effect of CA on grain yield and income of maize in Maize based cropping system. Both conservation and conventional agricultural (ConvA) practices were evaluated on two maize based cropping systems namely maize-wheat-mungbean (M-W-MB) and maize-lentil-mungbean (M-L-MB). For this purpose two maize varieties namely Raj Kumar and Arun-2 were used. The average productivity of maize under M-L-MB cropping system was 1.6% higher (5.75 t/ha) than M-W-MB cropping system (5.66 t/ha). The average grain yield of maize under CA was 16.7% higher (6.15 t/ha) than ConvA (5.27 t/ha). Rajkumar produced 43% higher average grain yield (6.73 t/ha) than Arun-2 variety (4.69 t/ha). The average net benefit was slightly higher (US$ 597.33/ha) under M-L-MB cropping system than M-W-MB cropping system (US$ 573.89/ha). Similarly, the average net benefit from CA was 102% higher (US$ 783.67/ha) than ConvA (US$ 386.79/ha). Rajkumar variety gave 127% higher average net benefit (US$ 813.49/ha) than Arun-2 (US$ 357.81/ha). The average benefit - cost (B:C) ratio of M-L-MB cropping system was slightly higher (1.72) than the average B:C ratio of M-W-MB cropping system (1.70). The average B:C ratio of CA was 42% higher (2.01) than ConvA (1.41). The average B:C ratio of Rajkumar variety was found 33% higher (1.95) than Arun-2 (1.46). The higher grain yield, net profit and B:C ratio were found in CA practices under M-L-MB cropping system and Rajkumar variety. This study suggests that hybrid maize planting and the adoption of M-L-MB cropping system should be used to increase grain yield and economic performance under CA practices.

This study was aimed at analyzing bone properties of Lohmann White hens in different commercial housing systems at various points throughout production. Pullets reared in conventional cages (CC) were either continued in CC or moved to enriched colony cages (EN) at 19 weeks. Pullets reared in cage-free aviaries (AV) were moved to AV hen houses. Bone samples were collected from 60 hens at each of 18 and 72 wk and 30 hens at 26 and 56 wk from each housing system. Left tibiae and humeri were broken under uniform bending to analyze mechanical properties. Cortical geometry was analyzed using digital calipers at the fracture site. Contralateral tibiae and humeri were used for measurement of ash percentage. AV pullets' humeri had 41% greater cortical areas, and tibiae had 19% greater cortical areas than the CC pullets (P < 0.05). Average humeri diameter was greater in AV pullets than in CC pullets (P < 0.05), whereas the tibiae outer dimensions were similar. Aviary pullet bones had greater stiffness (31 and 7% greater for tibiae and humeri, respectively) and second moment of inertia (43 and 13% greater for tibiae and humeri, respectively) than CC pullets (P < 0.05). The differences between bones of AV and CC hens persisted throughout the laying cycle. Moving CC pullets to EN resulted in decreased endosteal resorption in humeri, evident by a 7.5% greater cortical area in the EN hens (P < 0.05). Whole-bone breaking strength did not change with age. Stiffness increased with age, while energy to failure decreased in both the tibiae and humeri. These results indicated that tibiae and humeri of laying hens become stiffer but lose toughness and become brittle with age. Furthermore, AV and EN systems can bring positive changes in mechanical and structural properties that are more pronounced in the humerus than the tibia.

Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (QCT) has been used in poultry bone research in recent years to analyze cortical and cross-sectional geometry. For QCT to be used as a standard research tool for analysis of bones of laying hens (cortical thickness

Gas chromatography columns fabricated using microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology provide a number of clear advantages. However, successful deposition of stationary phases having a wide application range remains an important technical challenge. In this paper, we report, for the first time, on the deposition of room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs)—a versatile class of stationary phases—inside the channels of semi-packed columns (SPCs) for high-performance gas chromatographic separation of complex chemical mixtures. A 1 m long, 240 μm deep, 190 μm wide column comprising an array circular micropillars of 20 μm in diameter and 40 μm post spacing was fabricated using MEMS processes. Two RTILs were immobilized inside these columns using a dynamic coating method, and the columns were tested for separation of three different mixtures: a 15-component mixture of hazardous chemical pollutants, an 8-component mixture of fatty acid methyl esters, and a sample of gasoline. These columns displayed sharp and symmetrical peaks, significant selectivity variation between the two columns, and rapid separation times. The columns yielded high separation efficiencies measured by approximately 2300 plates/m under isothermal conditions. This work highlights the potential of RTILs to be used as excellent stationary phases for SPCs, thereby dramatically expanding the range of complex mixtures that could be analyzed using a micro gas chromatograph.

Nepal has been the location of a series of fatal aircraft accidents, raising serious concerns about civil aviation security and the safety of passengers. However, significant studies on weather patterns associated with the airports and air routes of the Himalayan complex terrain and their implications for aviation activities are yet to be carried out. The present study numerically reconstructs the prevailing weather conditions and puts forward some possible causes behind the most recent fatal aircraft accident in the foothills of the western Nepal Himalaya at 0730 UTC (1315 LST) 16 February 2014. The weather patterns have been numerically simulated at 1-km2 horizontal grid resolution using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) modeling system. The reconstructed weather situation shows the existence of a low-level cloud ceiling, supercooled cloud water and hail, trapped mountain waves, supercritical descent of a strong tail wind, and the development of turbulence at the altitude of the flight path followed by the aircraft. The aircraft might have gone through a series of weather hazards including visibility obstruction, moderate turbulence, abnormal loss in altitude, and icing. It is concluded that the weather situation over the region was adverse enough to affect small aircraft and therefore that it might have played an important role leading to the fatal accident. The development of hazardous weather over the region may be attributed to a previously unanticipated large-scale easterly gravity current over the middle hills of the Nepal Himalaya. The gravity current originated from the central high Himalayan mountainous region located northeast of the Kathmandu valley and traveled more than 200 km, reaching the foothills of the western Nepal Himalaya.

Environmental testing for Salmonella Enteritidis is required for U.S. shell egg producers with ≥3,000 hens on a farm. The egg producer assumes all costs for the mandatory testing. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Egg Rule, either manure scraper or drag swabs can be collected according to published guidelines and requirements. The present study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of Salmonella detection with one-, two-, and four-swab pools of either manure scraper or drag swabs. Resistant isolates of Salmonella serovars Enteritidis (1,000 ppm of streptomycin), Heidelberg (200 ppm of nalidixic acid [NA]), Typhimurium (200 ppm of NA), and Kentucky (200 ppm of NA) were utilized. Low (approximately 8.4 CFU) and high (approximately 84 CFU) levels of inocula were introduced onto a single swab within a pool. Single flocks from each conventional cage (manure scraper swabs) and cage-free barn (drag swabs) were monitored throughout the study at the ages required under the FDA Egg Rule. The highest and most consistent recovery of inoculum was found in single swab samples. For low dose inocula, recovery of isolates was low from single manure scraper swabs (57.9 to 29.2%) and decreased as more swabs were added to the pool. Recovery of isolates from manure scraper swabs was higher for high dose inocula, although Salmonella Heidelberg was outcompeted by the naturally occurring flora and had the lowest rate of recovery among the isolates tested. One- and two-swab pools of drag swabs had similar rates of recovery at both low and high doses for Salmonella Enteritidis, Salmonella Heidelberg, and Salmonella Typhimurium. When Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Kentucky were combined in an inoculum, Salmonella Enteritidis was recovered at a much higher rate than was Salmonella Kentucky for all types of swabs and doses of inocula. Pooling of two drag swabs allowed for similar detection of low and high dose Salmonella, but the pooling of manure scraper swabs decreased detection of low dose Salmonella. HIGHLIGHTS

Organic vapor sensors are used in diverse applications ranging from environmental monitoring to biomedical diagnostics. Among a number of these sensors, quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors prepared by coating ionic liquids (ILs) or their composites are promising devices for the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in complex chemical mixtures. Ionic liquids are remarkable materials, which exhibit tunable physico-chemical properties, chemical and thermal stability, multiple interactions with diverse group of molecules, and enormous structural variability. Moreover, ILs exhibit viscoelastic properties, and hence these materials are ideal for creation of QCM virtual sensor arrays. While the scientific literature on IL-coated QCM sensors is rapidly growing, there is still much to learn. This manuscript provides a comprehensive review on the development of IL-coated QCM sensors and multi-sensor arrays as well as their applications for the analysis of VOCs in complex mixtures. Furthermore, IL-coated QCM virtual sensor arrays and their applications are presented. A short overview of some of the QCM designs, future research areas, and recommendations are also discussed. This short review is a necessary first step towards standardization and further development of QCM for the analysis of VOCs.

Gas chromatography is a technology that is constantly moving forward. The current trend for this field is moving towards miniaturizing the columns towards achieving high-speed separations. Groups are constantly researching different geometries, topographies, and stationary phases in order to make these separations more efficient. In order to achieve this goal of increased efficiency, we have taken two ideas from previous works, namely being width modulated channels as well as semi-packed columns, and tried to use the redeeming qualities that exist in both and combine them to achieve something that shares their positive points. Semi-packed columns have been shown to increase the plate height for a column. However, the pressure drop that occurs in these types is a significant drawback that makes high-speed separations very difficult to achieve with lower inlet pressures. Width modulation of the column channel can be used to change the overall velocity of the gas as it travels throughout the column resulting in a lower overall pressure drop. The method that was used to combine these two ideas was to change the density of the pillars in the semi-packed column along the length of the channel to achieve the same effect of the width modulation. This was achieved by changing the number of pillars across in the channel as well as the pitch distance between sets of pillars. Controls were also fabricated so the results could be compared to the two extreme designs. After extensive testing, the results indicated that between the minimum and maximum density, the maximum density allowed only ~50% of the total flow that the minimum density design showed at the same inlet pressure. In comparison, the design that changed pillar density throughout the channel allowed ~89% of the flow the minimum density design. This is a significant increase in flow and allows for much more to pass through the chip in a given time span increasing the efficiency of high-speed separations. The other factor that was tested for was the number of theoretical plates for each of the designs. It was shown through testing with a constant sample that the minimum density column behaves very similarly to an open column without pillars whereas the density modulated column has plate numbers between those of the minimum density and the maximum density. This is even further data that supports the use of a pillar density modulated chip for high-speed separations.

Atmospheric processes over the Himalayan complex terrain are yet to be studied extensively. Only a few significant researches are reported from this region and the Far-Western Region (FWR) of Nepal still remains untouched. Thus, the present study was conceived to understand the meteorological flow characteristics and thermal environment over the region and associated areas during the late wintertime with the application of the state-of-the-art-of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Modeling System. The study revealed that the northern mountainous region developed strong down slope wind during the night and morning times, which sweeps out the southern plain area of Nepal and may reach just beyond the border. The wind over the plain was very shallow whose depth was just about 100 m. The down slope winds over the southern slope of the Daijee and Nandhaur mountain ranges were significantly enhanced by the subsidence of the southerly wind that prevails above 1 km height above the mean sea level. Close to the noon time a very gentle southerly valley wind from the southern plain replaced the nighttime down slope. Very shallow but strong surface inversion builds up over the plain that breaks up in the late morning. The depth of the mixed layer and the valley wind may reach up to 1km in the afternoon. The thermal environment over the FWR of Nepal was fairly hot that may remain around 35°C in the afternoon around the Mahendranagar area whereas the temperature during the nighttime may go as low as 23°C. The study revealed that, contrary to the general perception, temperature over plain areas of Nepal was significantly higher than further southern areas belonging to India. The meteorological flow fields over the FWR of Nepal executed diurnal periodicity with little day-to-day variation during the late wintertime.Journal of Institute of Science and TechnologyVolume 21, Issue 1, August 2016, page: 35-47

The housing of laying hens is important for social, industrial, and regulatory aspects. Many studies have compared hen housing systems on the research farm, but few have fully examined commercial housing systems and management strategies. The current study compared hens housed in commercial cage-free aviary, conventional cage, and enriched colony cage systems. Environmental and eggshell pool samples were collected from selected cages/segments of the housing systems throughout the production cycle and monitored for Salmonella and Campylobacter prevalence. At 77 wk of age, 120 hens per housing system were examined for Salmonella and Campylobacter colonization in the: adrenal glands, spleen, ceca, follicles, and upper reproductive tract. All isolates detected from environmental swabs, eggshell pools, and tissues were identified for serotype. Two predominant Salmonella were detected in all samples:S.Braenderup andS.Kentucky.Campylobacter coli and C. jejuni were the only Campylobacter detected in the flocks. Across all housing systems, approximately 7% of hens were colonized with Salmonella, whereas >90% were colonized with Campylobacter Salmonella Braenderup was the isolate most frequently detected in environmental swabs (P

Porphyrin-based GUMBOS and nanoGUMBOS were synthesized for potential application as improved photosensitizing materials. In this study, porphyrin dyes [meso-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)porphine (TCPP) and zinc(II) meso-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)porphine (Zn-TCPP)] were selected as anions, and trihexyltetradecylphosphonium (P66614) was employed as a cation. The resulting [P66614]4[TCPP] and [P66614]4[Zn-TCPP] GUMBOS (group of uniform materials based on organic salts) provided high photostability and excellent thermal stability for these compounds. NanoGUMBOS, i.e., nanomaterials derived from GUMBOS, were synthesized using reprecipitation and ion association methods. The surface charges of these nanoparticles were tuned from positive to negative through use of an ion association synthetic method without the need for additives or stabilizers. When compared to the parent dyes, nanoGUMBOS exhibited excellent photodynamic properties for potential applications as photosensitizers. Evaluation of the electrochemical propert...

Among a number of gas analyzers, portable gas chromatography (GC) systems created by the integration of microfabricated components are promising candidates for rapid and on-site analysis of a number of complex chemical mixtures. This Feature provides a snapshot of the progress made in developing micro gas chromatography (μGC) systems in the last 4 decades. In particular, we discuss the development of microfabricated preconcentrators, separation columns, and detectors. Furthermore, we review different stationary phase materials used to coat the separation columns and the major efforts toward the development of an integrated μGC.

The prevalence of Salmonella Enteritidis in commercial egg-laying flocks is a prominent public health concern because contaminated eggs cause human illness. Deposition of this pathogen inside eggs results from bacterial colonization of reproductive tissues in infected hens. Environmental conditions can influence avian Salmonella infections, but the food safety consequences of different poultry housing systems remain uncertain. The present study assessed the invasion of internal organs by Salmonella Enteritidis in groups of experimentally infected laying hens of four commercial genetic lines (designated as white egg lines W1 and W2 and brown egg lines B1 and B2). Groups of hens from each line were housed at 555 cm2 of floor space per bird in both conventional cages and colony units enriched with access to perches and nesting areas. All hens were orally inoculated with 5.75 × 107 colony-forming units of a two-strain Salmonella Enteritidis mixture. At 6 to 7 d post-inoculation, hens were euthanized, and samples of liver, spleen, ovary, oviduct, and intestinal tract were removed for bacteriologic culturing. The frequency of Salmonella Enteritidis recovery from intestinal samples was significantly (P0.05) greater for the two white egg lines combined than for the two brown egg lines combined in both conventional cage (72.2% vs. 50.0%) and enriched colony housing systems (66.7% vs. 37.5%). The frequency of intestinal Salmonella Enteritidis isolation from line B1 was significantly higher from hens in conventional cages (47.2%) than in enriched colonies (22.2%), but no differences were observed for other hen lines. Line W1 yielded more positive intestinal samples than either brown egg line in conventional cages, and line B2 had fewer positive intestinal samples than all other lines in enriched colonies. There were no significant differences between hen lines or housing systems in Salmonella Enteritidis isolation from other internal organs. These results demonstrate that Salmonella Enteritidis colonization of the intestinal tract can vary between genetic lines of egg-laying hens and that some lines are subject to housing system influences on Salmonella susceptibility.

These studies demonstrate the influence of an intermediate layer of aluminum oxide on the separation performance of a room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL)-coated gas chromatography silicon microcolumn. A 1 m long semipacked column having 190 μm wide and 240 μm deep rectangular cross-sectional channels with embedded arrays of micro pillars was microfabricated. A thin layer of alumina was then deposited on the surface of the channels via atomic layer deposition. Following the alumina deposition, the channels were coated with an RTIL. The separation performance of the RTIL-coated columns with and without the alumina layer was evaluated by measuring the separation efficiency and peak capacity. A substantial increase in separation efficiency was observed in the presence of the alumina layer. The alumina-pretreated columns, at optimum flow rate, exhibited as high as 8000 plates per meter, which is a 2.1-fold increase as compared to the column with no alumina layer. It is inferred that alumina coating promotes the formation of a more uniform RTIL film, thereby enhancing the separation efficiency. The peak production rates of alumina-RTIL columns for temperature-programmed separation were found to be 0.80–1.1 peaks per second, which is an improvement compared to silicon-RTIL columns. The separation performance of these columns were further evaluated by separating a standard 21-component mixture of hazardous organic compounds, a sample of kerosene, diesel, and B20 biodiesel. These studies open up new possibilities of enhancing the separation efficiency of microcolumns by coating silicon surface with a suitable material prior to depositing an ionic liquid.

In this study, GUMBOS (a group of uniform materials based on organic salts) derived from rhodamine B chloride, 1,1′-diethyl-2,2′-carbocyanine iodide, 3,3′-diethylthiacarbocyanine iodide, and meso-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)porphine were synthesized and characterized for application as energy relay dyes (ERDs) in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). A facile ion exchange reaction was employed for synthesis of GUMBOS. These GUMBOS exhibited improved characteristics in comparison to their respective parent dyes, including increased solubility, thermal stability, molar extinction coefficient, and fluorescence quantum yield. In addition, excellent spectral overlap integral and Forster resonance energy transfer efficiency were observed between various GUMBOS based-ERDs (donors) and the photosensitizing dye, N719 [di-tetrabutylammonium cis-bis(isothiocyanato)bis(2,2′-bipyridyl-4,4′-dicarboxylato)-ruthenium(II)] (acceptor). DSSC devices were fabricated and solar efficiency was evaluated in the absence and presence of ERDs using N719 as the photosensitizing dye. DSSCs in the presence of GUMBOS-based ERDs exhibited increased solar efficiencies in comparison to DSSCs in the absence of ERDs. Moreover, increases in solar efficiencies were found to be dependent on the counterions used in GUMBOS synthesis.

Osteoporosis in caged hens is one driving factor for the United States egg industry to explore options regarding alternative housing systems for laying hens. The aim of our research was to study the influence of housing systems on tibiae and humeri of 77-week-old Lohmann White hens. Pullets raised in an aviary system were either continued in aviary hen systems (AV) or conventional cages (AC) whereas pullets reared in conventional cages continued in conventional hen cages (CC) or enriched colony cages (EN) at 19 weeks. From each group, 120 hens were randomly euthanized and right and left tibae and humeri were excised for structural and mechanical analysis. Volumetric density of the cortical bone was measured using quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Aviary (AV) hens had greater cortical thickness and density but similar outer dimensions to AC hens (P < 0.05). Hens in EN system had humeri with similar cortical thickness and density but wider outer dimensions than the humeri of CC hens (P < 0.05). Cortical geometry of the tibiae was the same for the EN and CC hens, whereas EN hens had denser tibial cortex than CC hens (P < 0.05). Geometrical changes in the humeri suggest that hens in the AV system were better able to protect their structure from endosteal resorption during the laying phase. Humeri of AV and EN hens had increased second moment of area compared to the AC and CC hens; however, the changes were not observed in tibiae. Mechanical property differences were observed, with bones of AV hens having greater failure moment and stiffness than AC hens and the same difference was observed between the EN and CC hens, (P < 0.05). These findings indicate that movement limitation causes loss of bone mass and density whereas provision of moderate movement increases certain bone quality parameters during adulthood in laying hens.

The early monsoon time boundary layer characteristics prevailing over Aindanda low-mountain pass of Kathmandu valley has been continuously monitored for the period of 11 to 24 June 2013. The study reveals that the Aindanda pass channels regional air masses from the western neighboring valley up into the Kathmandu valley as westerly/ northwesterly winds during the daytime whereas it drains air mass out of the valley during night-time. The speed of the westerly/northwesterly wind over the pass often exceeds 6.5 ms-1 during the late afternoon. Nighttime mixing layer height (MLH) was highly fluctuating with an average around 300m whereas daytime MLH was suppressed limiting it in between 290-450m above the ground in early part of the day but reduced to 210-270m during the late afternoon. Comparison of diurnal variation of mixing layer height at Aindanda with that of the central area of the valley floor strongly suggests that air mass intruding into the Kathmandu valley through this pass is a cool density flow over the weakly stratified mixed layer of valley. The structure of the wind channeled through this pass indicates the possibility of making hydraulic jump in the western part of the Kathmandu valley, particularly, during the late afternoon time.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(2): 22-30

The mountain gap flow characteristics in and around the Chisapani mountain gap of Karnali River basin has been numerically simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to understand its spatial and temporal characteristics and its implications. The model was initialized with NCEP initial and boundary conditions to carry continuous integrations 168 long hours to identify the general flow field during early springtime. The river valley accumulates channels and flushes a narrow jet stream of about 10 ms-1 in speed and 500 m in its depth into the vast southern plain via Chisapani mountain gap during night and morning time whereas in the afternoon, the mountain feeds up-valley wind of about 4 ms-1 from the southern plain up into the Karnali River basin.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(2): 1-5

The characteristic behavior of prevailing boundary layer over the central area of the Kathmandu valley was continuously monitored by deploying a monostatic flat array sodar during the period of 03 to 16 March 2013. Diurnal variation of wind and mixing layer height were chosen to describe the boundary layer activities over the area by considering the day of 12 March 2013 as the representative day for the period of observation. The study shows that central area of the valley remains calm or windless under stable stratification throughout the night and early morning frequently capped by northeasterly or easterly wind aloft. Strong surface level thermal inversion prevails during the period up to the height of 80m above the surface. This inversion tends to lift up as the morning progresses and reaches to the height of 875 m or so close to the noontime. Intrusion of regional winds as westerly/northwesterly and the southerly/southwesterly from the western and southwestern low-mountain passes and the river gorge in the afternoon tends to reduce the noontime mixing layer height to about 700 m. The diurnal variation of wind and mixing layer height suggest that Kathmandu valley possesses a poor air pollution dispersion power and hence the valley is predisposed to high air pollution potential.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 28-35

Late wintertime diurnal variation and spatial distribution of mountain wave excitations over the Mt. Devchuli range and its surrounding areas have been numerically simulated with the application of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Modeling System. The study reveals that the region holds low-level trapped mountain waves almost all the time. The waves are confined below the stratified layer at about 3km above the mean sea level. Wave excitation over the region is highly active during the afternoon time whereas it remains at minimum level during the late morning time. These waves pose significant risk for low-level aviation and parachuting activities.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 102-106

The airplane of Nepal Army in-route to Kathmandu Airport from Nepalgunj lost its communication with the air traffic control room from the sky of Thada of Arghakhachi District. The plane was found with breath taking crashing over the Bowang high mountain area of Baglung District. The weather pattern over the area has been numerically reconstructed with the application of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model initialized with NCEP FNL meteorological and USGS land use and terrain elevation data to examined the effect of prevailing weather pattern. The reconstructed weather pattern show that the atmosphere over Thada and associated areas capture an adverse condition for aviation activities, as it appears highly turbulent and is intense subsidence prone. A detail long-term investigation usefully complemented with field observation may provide better understanding and for improved flight safety.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2014, 19(2): 65-70

The early monsoon time atmospheric transport processes over the Hetauda valley, the closest low-land that accommodates the third largest industrial district of Nepal, has been studied with the application of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Modeling System initialized with NCEP meteorological and USGS terrain elevation and land-use data. The study reveals that the mixing layer over the Hetauda valley may evolve as much as 3 km above the surface during the afternoon time. The near surface atmosphere of the valley appears very weakly stratified even in the early morning time indicating that prevailing meteorology over the valley favors efficient dispersion of air pollutants. The study also reveals that the daytime upslope winds over the Hetauda valley and associated northern mountains effectively intrude into the Kathmandu valley enhancing the southwesterly and northwesterly wind system of the valley. Intrusion of local flows appears to be accompanied with the excitation of mountain waves and plain-to-plateau wind. Formation of lowlevel rotors over the Hetauda valley, excitation of mountain waves and the strong downdrafts over the southwestern part of the Kathmandu valley may put aircrafts into high risk. The pattern of local flow fields strongly suggest that the increase emissions over the Hetauda valley can have significant help to further deteriorate the already unhealthy air of Kathmandu.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2014, 19(2): 109-117

Jomsom Airport of Nepal is considered to be one of the world’s most extreme airports. The frequency of aircraft crashing along the Kali Gandaki River Valley and over the Jomsom Airport is very high. Pre-monsoon time local flow characteristics over the Kali Gandaki Valley has been studied to understand the meteorological hazards for aviation activities along the valley and over the Jomsom Airport with the application of the WRF Modeling System initialized with NCEP meteorological, USGS 24 categories land use, and 30 second terrain data. Four days long simulation was carried out for the period of 15 May 0000 UTC to 19 May 0000 UTC, 2012 to capture the 16 May 2012 incidence of light aircraft crashing in the late morning time of the day. The study revealed that there are enough grounds to believe that the crashing of the plane resulted due to the adverse local flow system prevailing over the Jomsom Airport area during the period. The significant subsidence from the relatively strong boundary layer wind aloft, the ground level opposite wind and the low-level turbulence might have leaded the airplane to crash just after its takeoff from the runway. The local flow system over the Kali Gandaki Valley makes afternoon time flights over the Jomsom Airport almost impossible and the narrow slot of time during morning time is also not free from difficult situation. Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2014, 19(1): 111-120

Kathmandu valley has seen visible transformations in its intrinsic climate in recent decades. The atmosphere of the Kathmandu valley has become increasingly uncomfortable, unhealthy and more susceptible to, so far, unanticipated viral and other diseases. The lack of spatial distribution and temporal variation of potential climatic parameters as well as future scenarios have given rise to serious uncertainties with respect to climate change and development of adaptation strategies for sustainable climate of the valley and beyond. An accurate assessment and gridded documentation of prevailing climate at desired resolution is instrumental. Present study has been carried out to develop a high-resolution gridded map of near surface temperature and humidity for Kathmandu valley and its immediate surrounding areas as a starting point to address the foreseen problem of climate change and adaptation. Grid based seasonal and annual distribution map of near surface temperature and humidity have been developed as predicted by numerical simulation at horizontal resolution of 1km2 with the application of WRF Modeling System initializing with NCEP meteorological and USGS land use and terrain elevation data. Model predictions agree well with the available observation data.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2014, 19(1): 7-13

Mid-wintertime spatial and temporal distributions of mountain wave excitation over the Kathmandu valley has been numerically simulated using Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) modeling system. The study shows that low-level trapped mountain waves may remain very active during the night and early morning in the sky over the southern rim of the surrounding mountains, particularly, over the lee of Mt. Fulchoki. Calculations suggest that mountain wave activities are at minimum level during afternoon. The low-level trapped mountain waves in the sky over southern gateway of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) may pose risk for landings and takeoffs of light aircrafts. Detailed numerical and observational studies would be very important to reduce risk of air accidents and discomfort in and around the Kathmandu valley.

Keel bone damage (KBD) is a critical issue facing the laying hen industry today as a result of the likely pain leading to compromised welfare and the potential for reduced productivity. Recent reports suggest that damage, while highly variable and likely dependent on a host of factors, extends to all systems (including battery cages, furnished cages, and non-cage systems), genetic lines, and management styles. Despite the extent of the problem, the research community remains uncertain as to the causes and influencing factors of KBD. Although progress has been made investigating these factors, the overall effort is hindered by several issues related to the assessment of KBD, including quality and variation in the methods used between research groups. These issues prevent effective comparison of studies, as well as difficulties in identifying the presence of damage leading to poor accuracy and reliability. The current manuscript seeks to resolve these issues by offering precise definitions for types of KBD, reviewing methods for assessment, and providing recommendations that can improve the accuracy and reliability of those assessments.