Region Of Nepal Research Articles

Enhancing accessibility to the dementia risk profile (DRP) and knowledge of dementia risk reduction (KoDeRR) measuring tools to diverse communities through translation and adaptation in the Nepali language.

Dementia is one of the fastest emerging global public health concerns today, as the World Health Organisation has predicted that the number of cases will triple from 55 million in 2023 to 152 million by 2050. Current evidence indicates that approximately 45% of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed by acting on potentially modifiable risk factors. However, public knowledge regarding this remains unknown in numerous poorly resourced countries, including Nepal, where the prevalence of dementia continues to increase. The lack of availability of dementia knowledge or risk-measuring tools in the native language may be accountable for this identified gap. Thus, our study aimed to translate and culturally adopt two significant measuring tools, KoDeRR, which measures the Knowledge of Dementia Risk Reduction and the DRP, which generates a Dementia Risk Profile focusing on 9 modifiable risk factors identified by WHO. KoDeRR and DRP have been translated and adapted into Nepali following the TRAPD protocol. Cognitive interviews were then conducted with five bilingual individuals to pre-test KoDeRR and DRP for cultural appropriateness, face validity, and appropriateness of language usage. Certain terms, including dementia, do not exist in Nepali, and some English words do not have direct translation. Similarly, some English words must be translated into multiple Nepali words to suit audiences from different literacy levels and various regions of Nepal. It is essential to be mindful of the choice of words used in the tools since intergenerational language disparities exist in Nepali-speaking communities, and the cultural appropriateness of the language used can vary from one language to another. Translating and adapting dementia survey tools into non-English languages is challenging and time-consuming. Despite these challenges, translating and adapting measuring tools such as KoDeRR and DRP in non-English languages will facilitate researchers' understanding of risk reduction knowledge and the risk profile of diverse communities.

Revealing the mismatch in the response to warm-wetting climate of vegetation greenness and primary productivity using MODIS GPP/LAI in Nepal

Abstract The increasingly warm-wetting climate has gradually promoted vegetation greenness on the Tibetan Plateau and the surrounding region, yet the specific mechanisms driving this change in high-altitude mountainous areas remain unclear. This study, using Nepal as a case study, investigated the spatial and temporal impacts of hydro-climatic factors on leaf area index (LAI) and gross primary productivity (GPP), as well as the coupling degree of GPP-LAI expressed as the correlation coefficient (R 2) of these trends from 2003 to 2020. The results indicated both GPP and LAI increased significantly more during the dry season than the rainy season in Nepal, but the coupling degree of GPP-LAI in Nepal showed distinct seasonal and elevational differences. Relative to low coupling degree in high and low elevation regions, a higher yet gradually decreasing coupling degree was demonstrated in the mid high regions of central Nepal. By analyzing the effects of elevational profiles, this study revealed that temperature and solar radiation exhibited significant negative correlations with GPP in the southern and central forests at mid elevation, while suggesting a positive correlation in the high mountain alpine forests, which mitigated the limiting effects of precipitation constraints on GPP during the dry season. And the decreased temperature and precipitation had negative impacts on treeline deviation, which led to spatial variations in treeline deviation and coupling degree on either side of the 83°E in the Nepalese Himalayan alpine forests. Additionally, trends of shrubland in GPP and LAI growth reflected adaptations to a warmer and wetter climate. The study about spatio-temporal variation in response to warm-wetting climate, affected by seasons and elevations, offers a scientific basis for the adaptation and conservation of alpine vegetation in Nepal.

An Assessment of Non-Timber Forest Products in Siddhababa Community Forest, Gulmi, Nepal

NTFPs (Non-Timber Forest Products) include all biological materials, excluding timber, derived from forests, pasturelands, other man-made and wild habitats which have socio-cultural, economic and other livelihood significance. The list of the NTFPs species found in SCF (Siddhababa Community Forest) was documented, the status of the NTFPs in the area was observed and the economic contribution of NTFP in the livelihood of community forest user group was studied. The systematic random sampling method was used for vegetation sampling. A total of 113 vascular plant species were documented from the study area among which 85 species were identified as potentially useful species (NTFPs). According to life form categories, among total NTFP species, 36 species (42.35 %) belong to herbs and grasses, followed by 33 species (38.82 %) tree and 16 species (18.82 %) shrub. Local people cultivated Amleeso (Thysanolaena maxima), Bans (Dendrocalamus hamiltonii), Tejpat (Cinnamomum tamala) and Timur (Zanthoxylum armatum). The status of the NTFPs suggest that western tropical regions of Nepal is suitable for large-scale production of the NTFPs in a commercial way benefiting local people and the economic development of the country.

Vernacular Architecture in Nepal: A Review on Planning and Building Materials

Vernacular architecture, deeply rooted in local traditions, stands as a pivotal force in shaping sustainable and climate-responsive building practices. This study aimed to assess the planning, building materials, thermal comfort, and design recommendations presented in seven research articles, focusing on three distinct geographic regions of Nepal. The results emphasized the significance of vertical planning, simple layouts, and the use of local materials, along with the implementation of passive design strategies for thermal comfort. The findings revealed a research gap, pointing to insufficient literature on the topic, particularly in non-hilly regions. The review concludes by emphasizing the practicalvalue of the study for both practitioners and researchers, providing a comprehensive understanding of vernacular architecture in terms of materials and design strategies, and its relevance to contemporary climate responsive design. Additionally, the paper identifies future research directions to further enhance knowledge in this field.

Effect of moderate intensity exercise on cardiovascular autonomic function in obese female adults of Western Nepal

Background & Objectives: Obesity is a known risk factor for metabolic disorders such as high blood pressure, body fat abnormality, and glucose intolerance. In addition, obesity has been associated with dysregulation of autonomic function in humans, which may influence the morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular (CV) diseases. Being physically active has been proven to be a protective measure against CV diseases. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on CV modulation among obese females in the mid-western region of Nepal. Materials and Methods: We screened 28 healthy subjects to study the correlation between exercise and CV reactivity (Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) modulated) in obese subjects. Anthropometric and autonomic function parameters were measured before and after the intervention of four months of aerobic exercise and analysed. Results: The result showed a strong correlation of exercise with Resting Heart Rate (RHR) (p= 0.02), baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p= 0.01), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p =0.03 ). It also showed a significant correlation between exercise and CV reactivity change in SBP (p = 0.01) during the cold pressor test (CPT). However, some variables like change in DBP during CPT did not have a significant correlation (p= 0.94 ) with exercise. Conclusion: As obesity-related morbidity and mortality are burgeoning in our society, it is imperative to focus on exercise training to prevent and reverse CV neuropathy. Relevant aerobic exercise intervention can serve as an excellent countermeasure for the prevention of CV disease (CVD) by CV autonomic modulation.

Effect of Vitamin B12 Deficiency on Thyroid Function Tests Among Adults Visiting Tertiary Health Care Centre in Eastern Nepal

Background Vitamin B12 deficiency is commonly observed in hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis. Low vitamin B12 can disrupt thyroid function. Though the prevalence of this deficiency has been documented in various regions of Nepal, studies in Eastern Nepal are limited. The objective of this study was to assess the percentage distribution of vitamin B12 deficiency among adults visiting the tertiary health care centre in Eastern Nepal and to find out the effect of vitamin B12 deficiency on thyroid function test. Methods This study, conducted at Nobel Medical College from January 2022 to December 2023, was cross-sectional in design and included 379 patients. Subjects underwent general health check-ups, including Vitamin B12 and thyroid function tests. Descriptive analysis was performed, and Pearson’s correlation assessed the relationship between vitamin B12 levels and thyroid hormones. Independent t-tests compared hormone levels between groups. P value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results The vitamin B12 status distribution was as follows: 62.5% normal (>300pg/ml), 18.2% borderline deficient (200-300pg/ml), and 19.3% deficient (<200pg/ml). Prevalence was higher among females. Group II subjects (vitamin B12 <300pg/dl) had significantly lower mean free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels (2.82±0.742 vs. 3.14±0.49 pg/mL, p=0.003) and higher mean thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels (4.69±3.56 vs. 2.55±1.47 mIU/L, p<0.001) compared to group I (B12 >300pg/ml). Vitamin B12 showed a negative correlation with TSH (p=0.013). Conclusion The study indicates a decrease in FT3 levels and an increase in TSH levels among those with vitamin B12 deficiency or borderline cases

Pattern of Thyroid Disorders in a Tertiary Care Centre of a High-Altitude Region of Nepal: A hospital-based retrospective study

Background: Millions of people globally suffer from thyroid disorders, with over half of them are unaware of their conditions. Untreated, these disorders can lead to severe health complications such as heart problems, pregnancy complications, goiter, bone health issues, etc. Jumla, a high-altitude Himalayan region in Nepal, includes iodine-deficient areas, making it prone to thyroid disorders. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and pattern of thyroid disorders in this region. Methods: A retrospective hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Jumla, spanning from 1st January–31st December 2023. Participants of all ages with complete thyroid function test results (fT3, fT4, and TSH assessed via chemiluminescence immunoassay) were included. Data were extracted from Bahmni EMR, cleaned in MS-Excel, and analyzed in R software, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results: Among 816 participants (mean age: 35.66 ± 14.60 years), 660 (80.8%) were female, and 156 (19.1%) were male. The most represented age group was 25–34 years. Subclinical hypothyroidism was the most prevalent disorder, affecting 33 males (21.15%) and 143 females (21.66%). Primary hyperthyroidism was the least common, found in 1 male (0.64%) and 7 females (1.06%). Other disorders included secondary hypothyroidism, secondary hyperthyroidism, primary hypothyroidism, and subclinical hyperthyroidism. Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroidism was the most common thyroid disorder, with females disproportionately affected. Wider population screening for early detection and management is essential to mitigate health risks.

Optimum sugar syrup feeding intervals for Apis cerana Fab. during the winter dearth period in the sub-tropical area of Nepal

The study aimed to identify the optimal sugar syrup feeding interval for honeybee colonies during the winter dearth period in subtropical region of Nepal to ensure colony survival and maintenance. The focus was on evaluating sealed brood area, sealed honey area, egg-laying activity, and pollen collection. The experiment was conducted in an apiary located in Lamjung district of Nepal. Sugar syrup (1 water: 1 sugar) was fed to honeybee colonies at intervals of 7, 10, 15, and 20-days, along with a control group. Each treatment was replicated across four replications with five beehives in each replication, and data were collected weekly. Parameters such as the sealed brood area, honey storage, egg-laying rate, and pollen cells were measured by counting eggs, pollen cells, and assessing areas covered by sealed brood and honey. Colonies fed sugar syrup at 15-days intervals exhibited the best performance across all measured parameters, including the largest sealed brood area, highest honey reserves, maximum eggs laid by the queen bee, and the most pollen cells. These results indicate that feeding at 15-days intervals supports optimal colony health and activity during low-temperature winter conditions. Feeding sugar syrup at 15-days intervals is the most effective practice for maintaining colony health, ensuring optimal honey reserves, brood production, and pollen collection during the winter dearth period in subtropical areas of Nepal. This feeding strategy is recommended for improving colony survival, maintenance, and overall performance during challenging winter conditions in subtropical region of Nepal.

Spatial and Temporal Variability of Rainfall in the Western Region of Nepal

The temporal and spatial variability of seasonal, annual, and decadal rainfall over 44 years in western Nepal was investigated using rainfall data from 36 meteorological stations in various physiographic regions. Missing data were addressed using the normal ratio method, and significant trends in annual rainfall were assessed through the Man-Kendall test. Western Nepal receives about 79.7% of annual rainfall during the monsoon, followed by 10.7% during the pre-monsoon, 3.3% during the post-monsoon, and 6.3% during the winter. The analysis revealed distinct seasonal excess and deficit episodes, with the highest monsoon rainfall recorded in 2000 and the lowest in 1979. During the study period, there is a large temporal variability of seasonal and annual rainfall. The central part of western Nepal receives heavy rainfall in monsoon seasons than other parts. In winter seasons more rainfall is received in the Northwest part and decreases towards the central and eastern parts of western Nepal. The midlands of western Nepal received higher annual rainfall than the other regions. The present study identified that the seasonal rainfall has been decreasing patterns in the Western region of Nepal for the past four decades.

Self-supply as a safely managed water service: comparative analysis and predictors of water service outcomes in rural Nepal

Abstract Self-supply is ubiquitous in rural areas of South Asia, including in Nepal, where more than a third of the country’s population obtain their drinking water from private tubewells. However, there has been little research into the service levels delivered by self-supply or their performance relative to public water services. Drawing on data from 1,289 tubewells in Sarlahi District in the Terai region of Nepal, this study compared the performance of private tubewells against community tubewells in terms of water quality and availability; and identified factors that predict these service levels. Compared with community tubewells, private tubewells had significantly higher odds of providing water that was free from contamination and available in sufficient quantities when needed (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.19-3.77, p=0.011). However, inequities were evident among private tubewell users, with Dalits and disadvantaged ethnic groups having significantly lower odds of a safely managed water service (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.54-0.85, p<0.001). Among private tubewell users, shallower wells and open defecation were significantly associated with the presence of E. coli. The results show that self-supply is capable of providing a safely managed water service and could play an important role in efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6. However, targeted support should be directed towards disadvantaged households to safeguard water quality and strengthen service reliability. In particular, programmes that support the installation of deeper tubewells and end open defecation may bring water quality benefits in areas where self-supply is practised.

Evaluating citrus juice: A comparative study of physicochemical, nutraceutical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of citrus juices from Nepal

Citrus fruit juice is highly beneficial to human health, providing essential nutrients like carbohydrates, vitamins, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Juices from citrus fruit varieties grown in various regions of Nepal were analyzed for their physicochemical properties, nutraceutical content, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The pH of the juices ranged between 2.09 and 3.62, while total soluble solids (TSS) varied from 7° Brix to 12.3 °Brix. Among varieties, C. aurantifolia exhibited the highest titratable acidity at 7.39 g/100 mL. C. limon showed the highest moisture content (94.74 %), C. reticulata had the highest carbohydrate content (14.6 ± 0.4 g/100 mL, n = 3), and C. aurantifolia presented the highest protein content (34.1 ± 0.7 mg/100 mL). C. sinensis recorded the highest flavonoid content (91.4 ± 0.3 mg/100 mL), C. reticulata had the highest phenolic content (65.8 ± 0.6 mg/100 mL), and C. limon exhibited the highest ascorbic acid content (45.1 ± 0.4 mg/100 mL). The methanolic extracts of all citrus fruit juices demonstrated robust antioxidant properties, as determined by DPPH assay. Notably, C. limon and C. aurantifolia juice extracts demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against a wide range of microbes. This study highlights the variation in nutrient and phytochemicals compositions among different citrus fruit juices, underscoring the nutritional and medicinal benefits of citrus species.

Perspectives of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes on barriers to diabetes care: a qualitative study

BackgroundDiabetes care incorporates multiple integrated elements like self-care practices, patient education and awareness, societal support, equitable access to healthcare facilities and trained healthcare professionals, commitment from the diabetes associations and government policies. There is a dearth of research exploring the barriers experienced by both People with Type 1 diabetes (PwT1D) and People with Type 2 diabetes (PwT2D) in accessing the holistic elements of diabetes care. This study thus aimed at exploring the perceived barriers among PwT1D and PwT2D in accessing diabetes care services in urban and rural areas of Nepal.MethodThis study was a qualitative research using phenomenological approach where an in-depth interview with 23 participants on insulin was conducted. This included 15 PwT1D and 8 PwT2D, residing in the capital and rural areas and attending the hospitals and clinic in the urban and semi-urban regions in Nepal. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for the interview. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and deductive thematic analysis was done.ResultsMajority were female participants and most had received a formal education and were visiting the hospitals located in capital city. Mean age for PwT1D was (27.86 ± 1.85) years whereas the median age for PwT2D was [47.5 (IQR, 16.5)] years. Seven themes were generated from the study representing key barriers from patient’s perspective. These were: Theme (1) Double stigma: Diabetes diagnosis and insulin use, Theme (2) Non-adherence to insulin and Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose (SMBG), Theme (3) Logistic challenges in rural areas: Scarcity of healthcare professionals and other healthcare facilities, Theme (4) Dissatisfaction with healthcare services, Theme (5) Patients seeking alternative treatment strategies over allopathic treatment, Theme (6) Limitations of health insurance scheme and Theme (7) Limited role of national diabetes organizations.ConclusionThere is a need in raising awareness among general public especially on T1DM to address the issue of diabetes stigma. An effort in implementation of policies supporting diabetes care and refinement of National Health Insurance Scheme is equally essential. Similarly, strengthening of Health Care System by ensuring availability of insulin, laboratory facilities and trained healthcare professionals in rural areas should be focused to address the inequity in access to healthcare in rural and urban sectors.

An Insight Review on Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Evidences, and Biosynthesis of Key Metabolites of Indian Himalayan Cherry (Prunus cerasoides Don.) with Emphasis on its Safety and Use in Tradtional Phytomedicine

AbstractPadmaka (Prunus cerasoides Don.), or wild Himalayan cherry, is a deciduous tree from the Rosaceaae family. The Prunus genus has 400–430 species, including shrubs and trees. It is widely distributed across the Himalayan region of India, China, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand. It is used in many classical formulations of various Asian traditional medicinal systems viz., Ayurveda, TCM (traditional Chineese Medicines) and TTM (Traditional Thai Medicines) for treating burning sensations, Blisters, blood disorders, dizziness, bleeding disorders, herps, and skin disorders. The present review covers the research updates on P. cerasoides from 1982 to 2023, accessible on scholars’ platforms and databases. More than 200 phytomolecules have been investigated for their biological potential and the discovery of pharmacophores‐inspired drugs. Padmaka instigated over fifty diverse phytochemicals, viz. flavones, isoflavones, chalcones, terpenoids, glycosides, and sterols. The phytochemical flux of P. cerasoides is dominant with phenylpropanoids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, and terpenoids. Several experimental shreds of evidence emphasized the biological significance of P. cerasoides extracts and their derived phytochemicals. Medicinal significance and its safety in clinical validation have been discussed efficiently. Moreover, the barrier in validated therapeutics is a lack of information on the bioavailability of specialized bioactive, standardization, safety, and toxicokinetic. This review also provides insight into discussions on the key specialized secondary metabolism in P. cerasoides responsible for pharmacological/therapeutic action.

Unlocking the mysteries of drought: integrating snowmelt dynamics into drought analysis at the Narayani River Basin, Nepal

AbstractDrought is among the most impactful natural hazards, undermining water security, agriculture, and livelihoods worldwide. Analysing droughts in large catchments presents several unique challenges, primarily related to the complexity of land surface characteristics and data availability limitations. Conducting drought analysis in the Narayani River Basin, which encompasses a vast area within the Himalayan region of Nepal, is extremely challenging but crucial for maintaining the river basin's social, economic, and environmental balance. In response, this study develops a new combined drought index (CDI), integrating satellite-based reanalysis parameters [i.e., Land Surface Temperature (LST), Snow Cover (SC), and Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)] with a meteorological parameter [i.e., Standardised Precipitation (std_prec)]. The novel CDI was applied at the Narayani Basin to assess the droughts over the 2004–2013 period, and the results were independently evaluated using streamflow observations to validate the accuracy of the novel drought index. The principal component analysis (PCA) technique was used to determine the contribution of input parameters to the multivariate drought index. The PCA results show a strong positive correlation (0.78) between the CDI and standardised streamflow, indicating the effectiveness of the novel index in monitoring drought conditions. Accordingly, it can be concluded that surface water availability is interdependent on landscape characteristics, such as LST, SC, and NDVI, in addition to the effects of precipitation. Also, the novel CDI can identify the specific drought-affected areas in the Narayani River Basin, offering insights into its drought characteristics beyond traditional drought assessment techniques.

Adoption of soil conservation practices by mandarin (Citrus reticulata B.) farmers in Gulmi, Nepal

Mandarin has a tremendous potential for export and increased income for farmers of Nepal. However, in the recent years, soil degradation and erosion are the major challenges faced by the citrus enterprises especially in the hilly region of Nepal. The declining status of production and productivity cannot be checked without the transfer of site-specific and commodity-based knowledge and skills to the corresponding farmers. A study was carried out in 2023 to examine the soil conservation practices and status of technology adoption among the mandarin farmers. A total of 80 households from three wards of Dhurkot rural municipality of Gulmi district were selected on purpose for the study. Data were collected through interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussion, using semi-structured questionnaire, then the descriptive analysis was done using MS Excel and SPSS (Version 23.0). The results revealed that mainly three types of soil were presented in the study areas viz. luvisols, cambisols and sandy gravel, which are highly prone to soil erosion. The average area under mandarin cultivation was reported to be 0.74 hectare, with an estimated productivity of 7.6 metric tons per hectare. Approximately 95% of the respondents were familiar with soil degradation and its consequences in mandarin production. Accordingly, 96.2% of the respondents had adopted some forms of soil conservation practices like sod culture (40%), minimum tillage (36.2%), liming (40%), terracing and cover cropping (95%) and integrated plant nutrient system (31.2%), alongside the traditional stone bunds and mulching. The findings suggested that an increased participation in trainings and contact with extension agents has a significant influence on the importance of capacity building of the farmers regarding sustainable soil conservation technology, innovative cultivation practices, and ensuring frequent extension services to the farmers. Implementing these measures is expected to enable mandarin farmers in Nepal to check annual losses of soil fertility due to soil erosion and landslides, thereby contributing to commercialization of citrus.

Monitoring Hazards in Dam Environments Using Remote Sensing Techniques: Case of Kulekhani-I Reservoir in Nepal

Maintaining the operability of a hydroelectric power station at a scale originally designed is being compromised by continuous reservoir sedimentation. The underlying factors include a complex mix of landscape alterations owing to natural and anthropogenic activities around dam areas, such as gully erosion, landslides, floods triggered by heavy rainfall, climate change, and construction activities. The hydropower projects in the low-to-mid mountain regions of Nepal are witnessing a combination of these phenomena, affecting their optimal performance in meeting long-term sustainable power supply targets. This paper presents a combination of geo-spatial analysis and field evaluations to identify the trends from Kulekhani-I, one of the oldest storage-type hydropower projects in Nepal, using long-term time series remote sensing satellite imagery from 1988 to 2020. Our analysis shows an expansion of the surface water content area over time, attributed mainly to high sedimentation deposition owing to multiple factors. This study has identified an urgent need for addressing the following two key contributory factors through an effective control mechanism to avoid rapid sedimentation in the reservoirs: natural—landslides and floods leading to mainly silt deposition during heavy rainfalls; and anthropogenic—road construction materials dumped directly in the reservoir. Effective implementation of a remote sensing monitoring scheme can safeguard future damages to dam environments of more recently built storage-type hydropower projects.

Diversity of mammalian species in the Kangchenjunga Landscape of eastern Nepal

The Himalayas, including Nepal, are a biodiversity hotspot. However, records on mammalian richness remain incomplete due to resource limitations, inadequate training, and the remote location of study areas. The unprotected forest area of the Panchthar-Ilam-Taplejung region in eastern Nepal is a vital corridor connecting India and Nepal. Using a structured methodology we aimed to increase our knowledge of mammalian diversity in this area. Camera traps were deployed throughout the Panchthar-Ilam-Taplejung area in 53 locations in winter and 54 in spring, accumulating 3014 camera trap days and generating 93,336 images, with a positive trigger rate of 29.8%. The survey revealed 17 species of medium to large-sized mammals and an additional six species of smaller unidentified mammals, including two melanic variations and two previously undocumented species. Activity patterns were calculated for species with more than five image records in both seasons. The findings contribute essential information about the Kangchenjunga Landscape, which can be used to further conservation efforts in this critical ecosystem corridor.

Geochemical and mineralogical analysis of low-grade metamorphic rocks and their response to shallow landslide occurrence in Central Nepal

BackgroundThe weathering intensity and geochemical properties of a rock contribute to shallow landslide occurrences. This study aims to establish the role of rock weathering in shallow slope instability in low-grade metamorphic rocks of the Lesser Himalaya region of central Nepal. The rocks of the Kuncha Formation, which consist of phyllites, metasandstones, and gritty phyllites are characterized by the formation of shallow landslides. Field characterization of the rock mass within the landslide body, along with petrographic observations, clay mineral analysis, and major bulk geochemistry were adopted to establish a relationship between rock weathering and landslide occurrence.ResultsThe landslides distributed within the Kuncha Formation in the study area are debris-related slides and falls, rock falls, and complex slides. Microscopic petrographic observation of rock from the landslide area revealed well-developed microcracks and intergranular microfractures within the weathered samples, which suggests extensive disintegration and physical alteration. Kinematic analysis of the landslide slope revealed that discontinuities and bedding planes also affected the failure of the slope. The occurrence of neo-formed clay minerals and the conversion of biotite-muscovite to vermiculite, kaolinite, and mixed-layer clays indicate chemical weathering. The CIA ranges between 71 and 80 for the rock samples and between 72 and 84 for the soil samples, signifying moderate to extreme weathering effects. The higher values of PIA and CIW reveal K-feldspar and plagioclase alteration to clay minerals by weathering and alteration. CIA-LOI plots reveal significant relationships corresponding to weathering effects.ConclusionThe transition of rock from a fresh to a moderately weathered state and the development of clay minerals and major discontinuities played a crucial role in shallow landslide occurrence. The weakened physical properties of the rock mass due to weathering coupled with unfavorable joints and fracture conditions have led to instability of the hillslopes in the study area. It was observed that one of the driving factors that drives slopes to erosion and landslides is weathering. The dominant occurrence of landslides in the weathered rock domain within the study area validates the occurrence of landslides and weathering interconnections.

Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant Activity of Wild Medicinal Plants of Himalayan Range

Plants that are indigenous to the Himalayas have been exploited for their therapeutic properties for over 6,500 years. Using their deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna, traditional healers in the region are able to treat a wide variety of maladies with herbal treatments. People who live in rural areas of the Himalayas rely on wild medicinal plants for their health, and we need to do everything in our power to ensure that these plants continue to thrive in the harsh desert climate of the Himalayas. Raw materials that are obtained from wild plants are in high demand all around the world, particularly among pharmaceutical companies, ethnomedics, and practitioners of traditional medicine as well as other medical practitioners. India has been a top exporter of raw herbal medications all over the world. This is mostly due to the number of medicinal plants that can be found in the Himalayas. The aim of this study was to determine the Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of various parts of 20 selected wild medicinal plants, found in the Himalayan regions in India, China, Nepal, Bhutan and Pakistan including Swertia bimaculate, Ficus neriifolia, Rubus treutleri, Periploca calophylla, G. depressa, Buddleja napaulensis, Habenaria edgeworthii, Pyracantha crenulate, Roscoea procera, Allium rubellum, Berberis chitria, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Artemisia maritima, C. glanduliferum, C. distans, Juniperus macropoda, Origanum vulgare, Valeriana jatamansi, Polygonatum verticillatum, Meconopsis aculeate and Fragaria nubicolais. There were several different parts of the species that were examined to determine their total polyphenol, flavonoid, alkaloid, saponin, and tannin concentrations. One fraction of the plant extracts was found to contain a higher quantity of phytochemicals when compared to the other portions. Through the utilisation of the DPPH and FRAP model systems, the antioxidant capacity of a number of different components was assessed. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique can be combined with the DPPH and/or ABTS tests in order to rapidly screen extracts for the presence of active chemicals.

Migration and Agrarian Change in Eastern Hill Region of Nepal

Migration is a fundamental factor of human mobility and civilization through which people largely shift their ways of living to secure better life. The agrarian mode of social stratification dates back to the human civilization that have also been changing across. Among the various sectors, agriculture is considered to be the backbone of developing economy which has been largely influenced by mobility of the people. By considering this fact, the true value of migration lies on the rapid transformation of existing agrarian pattern of most of the economy. The aim of this paper is to analyze the role of migration in agrarian social change in the eastern hill of Nepal. This research paper is primarily based on the secondary data obtained through reviewing different published as well as digital scholarly sources and other official records to obtain the required information. The study reveals that migration is one of the dominant factors of agrarian social change in hill regions of Nepal. Since, agriculture growth is inevitable for better rural livelihood, the gradual diversification of rural livelihood dominantly influenced the agrarian social structure and the development of rural hill regions.