Myo Myint Aung - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Myo Myint Aung

Research paper thumbnail of Paleogeographic Evolution of Southeast Asia: Geochemistry and Geochronology of the Katha-Gangaw Range, Northern Myanmar

Minerals

The Mogok continental foreland region and Katha-Gangaw range (KGR) are located in the north-centr... more The Mogok continental foreland region and Katha-Gangaw range (KGR) are located in the north-central section of the Myanmar plate, which is a component of the Eurasian plate. The origin of KGR, exposed along northern Myanmar (SE Asia), is still up for argument, despite numerous prior studies. Based on the petrography, geochemistry, and detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology of metamorphic rock samples, the current study focuses on the tectonic evolution of the KGR. The study also emphasizes the phenomenon of microcontinents rifting from the Gondwanan supercontinent and their subsequent amalgamation with Asia. Detrital zircon ages from four samples in the southern region of KGR peak at 634 Ma, 525 Ma, 290 Ma, and 248 Ma, and two samples yielded > 40% of the grains of younger than 400 Ma. Similar results were obtained from three samples (out of six) from the central region of the KGR. All of the samples from the northern part of KGR are older than 400 Ma, with the exception of MT-02A, w...

Research paper thumbnail of Diagenetic implications for the oolitic limestone in the Miaolingian Zhangxia Formation, Beijing (North China Platform)

Carbonates and Evaporites

Research paper thumbnail of Quality Monitoring And Dynamic Pricing In Cold Chain Management

This paper presents a cold chain monitoring system which focuses on assessment of quality and dyn... more This paper presents a cold chain monitoring system which focuses on assessment of quality and dynamic pricing information about food in cold chain. Cold chain is composed of many actors and stages; however it can be seen as a single entity since a breakdown in temperature control at any stage can impact the final quality of the product. In a cold chain, the shelf life, quality, and safety of perishable food throughout the supply chain is greatly impacted by environmental factors especially temperature. In this paper, a prototype application is implemented to retrieve timetemperature history, the current quality and the dynamic price setting according to changing quality impacted by temperature fluctuations in real-time.

Research paper thumbnail of Understanding Governance from the Margins: What Does It Mean In Practice?

What does governance look like ‘from below’ – from the perspectives of poor and marginalised hous... more What does governance look like ‘from below’ – from the perspectives of poor and marginalised households? How do patterns of conflict affect that? These were the questions at the heart of the Governance at the Margins research project. Over three years from 2017-2020 we worked to explore this through in-depth study in conflict-affected areas of Mozambique, Myanmar, and Pakistan. Our research teams interviewed the same people regularly over that time, finding out how they resolved problems and interacted with authorities. In this paper we connect what we found to the realities and complexities of development practice, drawing on the input of 20 experienced practitioners working in bilateral and multilateral development agencies and international NGOs, who generously gave their time to help us think through the practical implications of our wealth of findings.

Research paper thumbnail of Locally delivered GLP-1 analogues liraglutide and exenatide enhance microvascular perfusion in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes

Diabetologia, 2019

Aims/hypothesis Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues reduce the risk of macrovascular diseas... more Aims/hypothesis Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues reduce the risk of macrovascular disease in diabetes; however, little is known about their microvascular effects. This research examined the microvascular actions of the GLP-1 analogues liraglutide and exenatide in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes (study 1). It also explored the involvement of the GLP-1 receptor (study 2) and the nitric oxide pathway in mediating the microvascular effects of the analogues. Methods Trial design: Studies 1 and 2 had a randomised, controlled, double-blind study design. Study 1 participants, intervention and methods: three participant groups were recruited: individuals with well-controlled type 2 diabetes, and obese and lean individuals without diabetes (21 participants per group). Liraglutide (0.06 mg), exenatide (0.5 μg) and saline (154 mmol/l NaCl; 0.9%) control were microinjected into separate sites in the dermis (forearm) in a randomised order, blinded to operator and participant. Skin microvascular perfusion was assessed by laser Doppler perfusion imaging. Outcomes were stabilised response (mean skin perfusion between 7.5 and 10 min post microinjection) and total response (AUC, normalised for baseline perfusion). Perfusion response to GLP-1 analogues was compared with saline within each group as well as between groups. Study 2 participants, intervention and methods: in healthy individuals (N = 16), liraglutide (0.06 mg) and saline microinjected sites were pretreated with saline or the GLP-1 receptor blocker, exendin-(9,39), in a randomised order, blinded to participant and operator. Outcomes were as above (stabilised response and total perfusion response). Perfusion response to liraglutide was compared between the saline and the exendin-(9,39) pretreated sites. In vitro study: the effects of liraglutide and exenatide on nitrate levels and endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation (activation) were examined using human microvascular endothelial cells. Results Study 1 results: both analogues increased skin perfusion (stabilised response and total response) in all groups (n = 21 per group, p < 0.001), with the microvascular responses similar across groups (p ≥ 0.389). Study 2 results: liraglutide response (stabilised response and total response) was not influenced by pretreatment with exendin-(9,39) (70 nmol/l) (N = 15, one dataset excluded) (p ≥ 0.609). Liraglutide and exenatide increased nitrate production and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation (p ≤ 0.020). Conclusions/interpretation Liraglutide and exenatide increased skin microvascular perfusion in individuals with and without well-controlled diabetes, potentially mediated, at least in part, by NO. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01677104.

Research paper thumbnail of Emerging RFID/USN Applications and Challenges

International Journal of RFID Security and Cryptography, 2012

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Wireless Sensor Network (WSN), also known as Ubiquitous... more Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Wireless Sensor Network (WSN), also known as Ubiquitous Sensor network (USN) are two important wireless sensing technologies that have wide variety of applications and provide unlimited future potentials. RFID is used to detect presence and location of objects using radio-frequency waves and the ability to do information transfer between tagged objects and readers without line of sight creates tremendous opportunities for linking various objects from real world. These objects are numbered, identified, catalogued, and tracked. WSN is used to sense and monitor the environment through spatially distributed autonomous devices using sensors such as temperature, sound, vibration, pressure and motion etc. Currently, RFID is emerging as an important technology for revolutionizing a wide range of applications including supply chain management, retail, anti-counterfeiting, baggage handling, and healthcare. Also, WSNs are now used in many civilian application areas, including environment and habitat monitoring, healthcare applications, home automation and traffic control. Initially, RFID and WSN have specific application areas deployed but many applications today also demand for the integration of these two. There are many emerging applications which adopt these technologies today and they have the potential to unleash new opportunities for growth in the market. We mentioned some of emerging applications which applied RFID or WSNs or both. Lastly, the challenges of these technologies are also discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of A case of large atrial myxoma presenting as an acute stroke

Journal of community hospital internal medicine perspectives, 2016

Left atrial myxomas are rare primary cardiac tumors. Their incidence is estimated to be about 0.1... more Left atrial myxomas are rare primary cardiac tumors. Their incidence is estimated to be about 0.1% of total cases. Neurological complications resulting from cardiac myxomas are seen in 20-35% of patients. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is preferred over transthoracic echocardiogram for evaluation of left atrial myxoma. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography ensures better visualization of intracardiac structures. It has been used prior to surgery for diagnostic support in the surgical treatment of cardiac masses. We present a case of a 46-year-old Hispanic male who developed acute ischemic stroke of left frontal lobe and was also found to have multiple 'silent' cerebral infarcts in the MRI of the brain. On further workup, he was found to have a left atrial myxoma on 3D TEE. This was resected with the assistance of intra-operative 3D TEE imaging. We present this case to increase awareness and to stress at early evaluation of secondary causes of ischemic cerebrovascular...

Research paper thumbnail of Mathematical Modeling of Technological Processes Produce Concrete Products

Automation and Control in Technical Systems, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Intestinal Parasitic Infestation in Combatants and Their Families: A Hospital-Based Study in Mid-Western Regional Police Hospital, Nepal

Global Journal of Health Science, 2014

Objective: To find out the scenario of intestinal parasitic infestation in combatants and their f... more Objective: To find out the scenario of intestinal parasitic infestation in combatants and their families in the setting of Mid-Western Regional Police Hospital (MWRPH), Nepal.

Research paper thumbnail of Global evidence directing regional preventive strategies in Southeast Asia for fighting TB/HIV

The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries, 2013

Tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-epidemics form a huge burden of disea... more Tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-epidemics form a huge burden of disease in the Southeast Asia region. Five out of eleven nations in this region are high TB/HIV burden countries: Myanmar, Thailand, India, Indonesia and Nepal. The trends of TB incidence in these countries have been rising in recent years, in contrast to a falling global trend. Experts in the field of TB control and health service providers have been perplexed by the association of TB and HIV infections which causes a mosaic clinical presentation, a unique course with poor treatment outcomes including death. We conducted a review of contemporary evidence relating to TB/HIV control with the aims of assisting integrated health system responses in Southeast Asia and demystifying current evidence to facilitate translating it into practice.

Research paper thumbnail of Observation of genotype C infected chronic hepatitis B patients in clinical practice

The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries, 2011

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C is prevalent in many areas of the world includin... more Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C is prevalent in many areas of the world including Thailand and Southeast Asia. It is a strong risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by evidence. We aimed to describe the baseline clinical information of treatment naïve genotype C infected chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and to describe the treatment response by surrogate outcome markers in genotype C infected CHB patients after one year of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA) treatment Methodology: Thirty-four genotype C CHB patients were studied at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Bangkok, including 12 patients treated with lamivudine, 11 with telbivudine, 8 with adefovir, and 3 with entecavir. Serum HBV DNA levels, serum alanine amino transferase ( ALT ) levels, HBeAg status, and alpha-feto protein (AFP) levels were recorded at the start and after twelve months of ongoing treatment. HBV genotyping was performed by line-probe assay. Results: About half of the patients (58.8%) were H...

Research paper thumbnail of Reducing salt intake for prevention of cardiovascular diseases in high-risk patients by advanced health education intervention (RESIP-CVD study), Northern Thailand: study protocol for a cluster randomized trial

Trials, 2012

Background: Decreasing salt consumption can prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Practically, i... more Background: Decreasing salt consumption can prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Practically, it is difficult to promote people's awareness of daily salt intake and to change their eating habits in terms of reducing salt intake for better cardiovascular health. Health education programs visualizing daily dietary salt content and intake may promote lifestyle changes in patients at high risk of cardiovascular diseases. Methods/Design: This is a cluster randomized trial. A total of 800 high-CVD-risk patients attending diabetes and hypertension clinics at health centers in Muang District, Chiang Rai province, Thailand, will be studied with informed consent. A health center recruiting 100 participants is a cluster, the unit of randomization. Eight clusters will be randomized into intervention and control arms and followed up for 1 year. Within the intervention clusters the following will be undertaken: (1) salt content in the daily diet will be measured and shown to study participants; (2) 24-hour salt intake will be estimated in overnight-collected urine and the results shown to the participants; (3) a dietician will assist small group health education classes in cooking meals with less salt. The primary outcome is blood pressure change at the 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes at the 1-year follow-up are estimated 24-hoursalt intake, incidence of CVD events and CVD death. The intention-to-treat analysis will be followed. Blood pressure and estimated 24-hour salt intake will be compared between intervention and control groups at the cluster and individual level at the 1-year follow-up. Clinical CVD events and deaths will be analyzed by time-event analysis. Retinal blood vessel calibers of CVD-risk patients will be assessed cross-sectionally. Behavioral change to reduce salt intake and the influencing factors will be determined by structured equation model (SEM). Multilevel regression analyses will be applied. Finally, the cost effectiveness of the intervention will be analyzed.

Research paper thumbnail of Evidence-based new service package vs. routine service package for smoking cessation to prevent high risk patients from cardiovascular diseases (CVD): study protocol for randomized controlled trial

Trials, 2013

Background: Smoking cessation is a high-priority intervention to prevent CVD events and deaths in... more Background: Smoking cessation is a high-priority intervention to prevent CVD events and deaths in developing countries. While several interventions to stop smoking have been proved successful, the question of how to increase their effectiveness and practicality in developing countries remains. In this study, a newly devised evidence-based smoking cessation service package will be compared with the existing service in a randomized controlled trial within the community setting of Thailand.

Research paper thumbnail of Land cover in the Northern Forest Complex of Myanmar: new insights for conservation

Oryx, 2007

We classified land cover in the Northern Forest Complex in Myanmar using satellite imagery (MODIS... more We classified land cover in the Northern Forest Complex in Myanmar using satellite imagery (MODIS/NDVI) and field surveys carried out in 2001, 2004 and 2005. Using Landsat TM/ETM+ images from 1991 and 1999 we determined deforestation rates. The c. 22,000 km2 Northern Forest Complex, including the Hkakabo Razi National Park in northern Kachin State, is characterized by tropical to subtropical pristine forests with low human impact. The area studied, which includes land beyond the boundaries of Hkakabo Razi National Park, is of special conservation importance because it provides a refuge for many rare plant and animal species. Less than 1.4% of the area is affected by humans (excluding hunting) and deforestation rates are low at <0.01% annually. We observed several bird and mammal species that are considered threatened elsewhere. Based on our data, those of previous surveys, and the fact that >10 new vertebrate species have been described in the region since 1999, it is likely t...

Research paper thumbnail of Knowledge of communicable and noncommunicable diseases among Karen ethnic high school students in rural Thasongyang, the far northwest of Thailand

International Journal of General Medicine, 2013

Background: The double burden of communicable and noncommunicable diseases (NCD) is an increasing... more Background: The double burden of communicable and noncommunicable diseases (NCD) is an increasing trend in low-and-middle income developing countries. Rural and minority populations are underserved and likely to be affected severely by these burdens. Knowledge among young people could provide immunity to such diseases within a community in the long term. In this study we aimed to assess the knowledge of several highly prevalent NCDs (diabetes, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]) and several highly incident communicable diseases (malaria and diarrheal diseases) among Karen high school students in a rural district in far northwest of Thailand. The aim of the study is to explore information for devising life-course health education that will be strategically based in schools. Method: A cross-sectional survey approved by the ethics committee of Boromarajonani College of Nursing Nakhon Lampang (BCNLP), Lampang, Thailand was conducted in Thasongyang, Tak province, from September 2011 to January 2012. Questionnaires for assessing knowledge regarding diabetes, hypertension, COPD, malaria, and diarrheal diseases were delivered to all 457 Karen high school students attending Thasongyang high school. A total of 371 students returned the questionnaires. Experts' validation and split-half reliability assessment was applied to the instrument. Results: Students' main sources of health information were their teachers (62%), health care workers (60%), television (59%), and parents (54%). Familial risk factors of diabetes and hypertension were not known to more than two thirds of the students. Except obesity and physical inactivity, lifestyle-related risk factors were also not known to the students. Though living in a malaria-endemic area, many of the Karen students had poor knowledge about preventive behaviors. Half of the students could not give a correct answer about the malaria and hygienic practice, which might normally be traditionally relayed messages. Conclusion: Health education and knowledge about common NCD and communicable diseases are yet to be prompted among the Karen students. A broader and more comprehensive school-based health education strategy for prevention of double burden diseases would benefit the rural minority population at the Thai-Myanmar border.

Research paper thumbnail of Predicting prediabetes in a rural community: a survey among the Karen ethnic community, Thasongyang, Thailand

International Journal of General Medicine, 2012

Background: Diabetes is a growing epidemic in both urban and rural communities worldwide. Aim: We... more Background: Diabetes is a growing epidemic in both urban and rural communities worldwide. Aim: We aimed to survey fasting plasma glucose (FPG) status and awareness of diabetes in the rural Karen ethnic community. We investigated the predictors of impaired fasting plasma glucose (IFG) status, which would be easily applicable for prevention of diabetes in a rural community. Materials and methods: This was a community-based cross-sectional study conducted at Thasongyang, the most northwestern district in Thailand. A total of 299 Karen ethnic rural residents were included in the study. FPG, body mass index, and waist circumference were prospectively measured. We assessed the awareness of diabetes and lifestyle-related health behavior with closed questionnaires in a rural community setting. Results: On screening for FPG, 16.72% of the Karen ethnic residents had hyperglycemia: 3.68% in the diabetic range and 13.04% in the prediabetic range respectively. After adjustment for age, sex, and BMI, waist circumference (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-9.57), and having a diabetic blood relative (aOR 4.6, CI 1.81-11.71) are significant predictors of IFG status. Conclusion: It is necessary to promote awareness of diabetes among the Karen ethnic community. Application of simple evidence-based predictors of the prediabetic state may lead to timely and effective prevention of diabetes in rural settings.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessing awareness and knowledge of hypertension in an at-risk population in the Karen ethnic rural community, Thasongyang, Thailand

International Journal of General Medicine, 2012

Background: Hypertension is currently a global health concern. Rural and minority populations are... more Background: Hypertension is currently a global health concern. Rural and minority populations are increasingly exposed to risk factors as a result of urbanization, leading to hypertension and cardiovascular disease. We conducted a survey in the rural Karen community in Thasongyang District, Tak Province, Thailand, with the aims of determining: the distribution of blood pressure across different age groups; the prevalence of hypertension and other risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including diabetes, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and excess alcohol use; knowledge and awareness of hypertension as a disease; and knowledge and awareness of risk factors for hypertension among the population at risk. Methods: This was a community-based, cross-sectional survey of 298 rural Karen residents. A set of questionnaires assessing lifestyle-related health risk behaviors and awareness and knowledge of hypertension were used. Blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, weight, height, and waist circumference were measured. Results: Median systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 110 (range 100-120) mmHg and 70 (range 60-80) mmHg, respectively. High blood pressure was observed in more than 27% of the population, with 15% being hypertensive and 12% being prehypertensive. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that people in the Karen community who were aware of hypertension were less likely to be current smokers (odds ratio [OR] 0.53, confidence interval [CI] 0.29-0.97) and those with primary school education were more likely to be aware of hypertension than those who did not have a primary school education (OR 6.5, CI 1.9-22.24). Overall, our survey showed that less than half of the Karen community had such knowledge and awareness. Conclusion: It is urgently necessary to promote knowledge, awareness, and health literacy among the ethnic Karen tribes to prevent hypertension and associated CVDs.

Research paper thumbnail of Prospective evaluation of simply modified MODS assay: an effective tool for TB diagnosis and detection of MDR-TB

Infection and Drug Resistance, 2012

Background and setting: Thailand is one of the highest tuberculosis (TB)-burdened countries. Chia... more Background and setting: Thailand is one of the highest tuberculosis (TB)-burdened countries. Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand has high tuberculosis and human i mmunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence and the laboratory workload for TB culture and drug susceptibility testing is increasing. Objectives: To evaluate the simply modified microscopic-observation drug-susceptibility assay (MODS) in the setting of a developing country. Methods: In this cross-sectional diagnostic study, a total of 202 sputum samples of clinically diagnosed TB patients were used to test the performance of MODS assay in reference to gold standard BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960 liquid culture system and Ogawa solid culture. Sputum samples were collected from clinically diagnosed TB patients. Culture growth rate and time to culture positivity were compared among three methods. Performance of modified MODS assay was evaluated for detection of mycobacterium drug resistance in reference to MGIT antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST). Result: Median time to culture positivity by MODS, solid, and liquid culture were 12, 30, and 6 days respectively. Compared to the drug susceptibility test (DST) result of reference liquid culture, the sensitivity and specificity of MODS for detection of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) was 85.7% and 97.5% respectively. MODS assay has a positive predicative value of 80% and negative predictive value of 96.5% for isoniazid resistance, 70% and 100% for rifampicin resistance, and 66.7% and 99.1% for MDR-TB. Conclusion: MODS is a highly effective screening test for detection of MDR-TB.

Research paper thumbnail of Causes of mortality among tuberculosis and HIV co-infected patients in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care, 2012

The case fatality rate in patients with tuberculosis (TB) associated with human immunodeficiency ... more The case fatality rate in patients with tuberculosis (TB) associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been particularly high in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand. It was almost 50% before the introduction of antiretroviral therapy in the last decade, and was still at 28% in 2008, despite expanding access to antiretroviral therapy. Reviewing the causes of death may lead to further understanding of the timeline and natural history of TB-HIV coinfection, and in so doing help to devise an effective prevention strategy in Chiang Rai. In this study, we aimed to investigate the distribution of confirmed causes of death in patients coinfected with TB and HIV in Chiang Rai, describe the causes of such deaths along the timeline of TB treatment, and identify predictors of each cause of death. Methods: In this retrospective study, we reviewed the causes of death for 331 patients who died of TB-HIV coinfection at Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital from 2005 to 2008. Causes of death were confirmed by reviewing medical records, vital registration, and the TB register in the province, as well as obtaining reconfirmation by two experienced HIV physicians. Results: The confirmed causes of death were TB (39%), acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related opportunistic infections other than TB (AOI) (29%), and other systemic diseases which were neither TB nor AIDS-related opportunistic infections (nonTB-nonAOI) (16%). The definitive cause could not be confirmed in the remaining 16% of deaths. After starting the TB treatment, deaths caused by TB occurred earlier compared with deaths caused by AOI, which occurred steadily throughout the course of TB treatment, whilst deaths caused by non-TB-nonAOI increased gradually in later months. Further analysis by multivariate multinomial regression analysis showed that deaths in the first month (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.49-8.63), CD4 count  200 cells/mm 3 (aOR 5.33, CI 1.05-26.10), non-category 1 TB treatment regimens (aOR 5.23, CI 1.04-9.77), and TB meningitis (aOR 3.27, CI 1.37-7.82) were significant predictors of confirmed TB deaths. Moreover, age over 45 years (aOR 3, CI 1.32-6.84) and admission as an inpatient were predictors of death caused by neither TB nor AIDS-related opportunistic infections (aOR 3.08, CI 1.39-6.80). Additional analysis showed that non-Thai patients (aOR 0.35, CI 0.12-0.99), those with an unknown CD4 count at TB diagnosis (aOR 0.16, CI 0.08-0.33), and those without an HIV diagnosis before TB treatment (aOR 0.32, CI 0.18-0.59) were less able to access antiretroviral therapy. Conclusion: The timeline and predictors of causes of death may assist in devising an intervention strategy for further reduction of the TB-HIV case fatality rate.

Research paper thumbnail of Automated Assessment of Voltage Sag Performance at Low Voltage Buses?

The paper describes the software for the assessment of voltage sag performance at low voltage bus... more The paper describes the software for the assessment of voltage sag performance at low voltage buses based on available sag performance at point of common coupling (PCC). The sag performance at the PCC can be obtained either through computer simulations or from long term measurements. The software takes into account the influence of downstream transformers and induction motors and correspondingly accounts for the changes in sag characteristics per phase. In this way, more realistic characteristics of sags at equipment terminals can be determined.

Research paper thumbnail of Paleogeographic Evolution of Southeast Asia: Geochemistry and Geochronology of the Katha-Gangaw Range, Northern Myanmar

Minerals

The Mogok continental foreland region and Katha-Gangaw range (KGR) are located in the north-centr... more The Mogok continental foreland region and Katha-Gangaw range (KGR) are located in the north-central section of the Myanmar plate, which is a component of the Eurasian plate. The origin of KGR, exposed along northern Myanmar (SE Asia), is still up for argument, despite numerous prior studies. Based on the petrography, geochemistry, and detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology of metamorphic rock samples, the current study focuses on the tectonic evolution of the KGR. The study also emphasizes the phenomenon of microcontinents rifting from the Gondwanan supercontinent and their subsequent amalgamation with Asia. Detrital zircon ages from four samples in the southern region of KGR peak at 634 Ma, 525 Ma, 290 Ma, and 248 Ma, and two samples yielded > 40% of the grains of younger than 400 Ma. Similar results were obtained from three samples (out of six) from the central region of the KGR. All of the samples from the northern part of KGR are older than 400 Ma, with the exception of MT-02A, w...

Research paper thumbnail of Diagenetic implications for the oolitic limestone in the Miaolingian Zhangxia Formation, Beijing (North China Platform)

Carbonates and Evaporites

Research paper thumbnail of Quality Monitoring And Dynamic Pricing In Cold Chain Management

This paper presents a cold chain monitoring system which focuses on assessment of quality and dyn... more This paper presents a cold chain monitoring system which focuses on assessment of quality and dynamic pricing information about food in cold chain. Cold chain is composed of many actors and stages; however it can be seen as a single entity since a breakdown in temperature control at any stage can impact the final quality of the product. In a cold chain, the shelf life, quality, and safety of perishable food throughout the supply chain is greatly impacted by environmental factors especially temperature. In this paper, a prototype application is implemented to retrieve timetemperature history, the current quality and the dynamic price setting according to changing quality impacted by temperature fluctuations in real-time.

Research paper thumbnail of Understanding Governance from the Margins: What Does It Mean In Practice?

What does governance look like ‘from below’ – from the perspectives of poor and marginalised hous... more What does governance look like ‘from below’ – from the perspectives of poor and marginalised households? How do patterns of conflict affect that? These were the questions at the heart of the Governance at the Margins research project. Over three years from 2017-2020 we worked to explore this through in-depth study in conflict-affected areas of Mozambique, Myanmar, and Pakistan. Our research teams interviewed the same people regularly over that time, finding out how they resolved problems and interacted with authorities. In this paper we connect what we found to the realities and complexities of development practice, drawing on the input of 20 experienced practitioners working in bilateral and multilateral development agencies and international NGOs, who generously gave their time to help us think through the practical implications of our wealth of findings.

Research paper thumbnail of Locally delivered GLP-1 analogues liraglutide and exenatide enhance microvascular perfusion in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes

Diabetologia, 2019

Aims/hypothesis Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues reduce the risk of macrovascular diseas... more Aims/hypothesis Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues reduce the risk of macrovascular disease in diabetes; however, little is known about their microvascular effects. This research examined the microvascular actions of the GLP-1 analogues liraglutide and exenatide in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes (study 1). It also explored the involvement of the GLP-1 receptor (study 2) and the nitric oxide pathway in mediating the microvascular effects of the analogues. Methods Trial design: Studies 1 and 2 had a randomised, controlled, double-blind study design. Study 1 participants, intervention and methods: three participant groups were recruited: individuals with well-controlled type 2 diabetes, and obese and lean individuals without diabetes (21 participants per group). Liraglutide (0.06 mg), exenatide (0.5 μg) and saline (154 mmol/l NaCl; 0.9%) control were microinjected into separate sites in the dermis (forearm) in a randomised order, blinded to operator and participant. Skin microvascular perfusion was assessed by laser Doppler perfusion imaging. Outcomes were stabilised response (mean skin perfusion between 7.5 and 10 min post microinjection) and total response (AUC, normalised for baseline perfusion). Perfusion response to GLP-1 analogues was compared with saline within each group as well as between groups. Study 2 participants, intervention and methods: in healthy individuals (N = 16), liraglutide (0.06 mg) and saline microinjected sites were pretreated with saline or the GLP-1 receptor blocker, exendin-(9,39), in a randomised order, blinded to participant and operator. Outcomes were as above (stabilised response and total perfusion response). Perfusion response to liraglutide was compared between the saline and the exendin-(9,39) pretreated sites. In vitro study: the effects of liraglutide and exenatide on nitrate levels and endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation (activation) were examined using human microvascular endothelial cells. Results Study 1 results: both analogues increased skin perfusion (stabilised response and total response) in all groups (n = 21 per group, p < 0.001), with the microvascular responses similar across groups (p ≥ 0.389). Study 2 results: liraglutide response (stabilised response and total response) was not influenced by pretreatment with exendin-(9,39) (70 nmol/l) (N = 15, one dataset excluded) (p ≥ 0.609). Liraglutide and exenatide increased nitrate production and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation (p ≤ 0.020). Conclusions/interpretation Liraglutide and exenatide increased skin microvascular perfusion in individuals with and without well-controlled diabetes, potentially mediated, at least in part, by NO. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01677104.

Research paper thumbnail of Emerging RFID/USN Applications and Challenges

International Journal of RFID Security and Cryptography, 2012

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Wireless Sensor Network (WSN), also known as Ubiquitous... more Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Wireless Sensor Network (WSN), also known as Ubiquitous Sensor network (USN) are two important wireless sensing technologies that have wide variety of applications and provide unlimited future potentials. RFID is used to detect presence and location of objects using radio-frequency waves and the ability to do information transfer between tagged objects and readers without line of sight creates tremendous opportunities for linking various objects from real world. These objects are numbered, identified, catalogued, and tracked. WSN is used to sense and monitor the environment through spatially distributed autonomous devices using sensors such as temperature, sound, vibration, pressure and motion etc. Currently, RFID is emerging as an important technology for revolutionizing a wide range of applications including supply chain management, retail, anti-counterfeiting, baggage handling, and healthcare. Also, WSNs are now used in many civilian application areas, including environment and habitat monitoring, healthcare applications, home automation and traffic control. Initially, RFID and WSN have specific application areas deployed but many applications today also demand for the integration of these two. There are many emerging applications which adopt these technologies today and they have the potential to unleash new opportunities for growth in the market. We mentioned some of emerging applications which applied RFID or WSNs or both. Lastly, the challenges of these technologies are also discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of A case of large atrial myxoma presenting as an acute stroke

Journal of community hospital internal medicine perspectives, 2016

Left atrial myxomas are rare primary cardiac tumors. Their incidence is estimated to be about 0.1... more Left atrial myxomas are rare primary cardiac tumors. Their incidence is estimated to be about 0.1% of total cases. Neurological complications resulting from cardiac myxomas are seen in 20-35% of patients. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is preferred over transthoracic echocardiogram for evaluation of left atrial myxoma. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography ensures better visualization of intracardiac structures. It has been used prior to surgery for diagnostic support in the surgical treatment of cardiac masses. We present a case of a 46-year-old Hispanic male who developed acute ischemic stroke of left frontal lobe and was also found to have multiple 'silent' cerebral infarcts in the MRI of the brain. On further workup, he was found to have a left atrial myxoma on 3D TEE. This was resected with the assistance of intra-operative 3D TEE imaging. We present this case to increase awareness and to stress at early evaluation of secondary causes of ischemic cerebrovascular...

Research paper thumbnail of Mathematical Modeling of Technological Processes Produce Concrete Products

Automation and Control in Technical Systems, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Intestinal Parasitic Infestation in Combatants and Their Families: A Hospital-Based Study in Mid-Western Regional Police Hospital, Nepal

Global Journal of Health Science, 2014

Objective: To find out the scenario of intestinal parasitic infestation in combatants and their f... more Objective: To find out the scenario of intestinal parasitic infestation in combatants and their families in the setting of Mid-Western Regional Police Hospital (MWRPH), Nepal.

Research paper thumbnail of Global evidence directing regional preventive strategies in Southeast Asia for fighting TB/HIV

The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries, 2013

Tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-epidemics form a huge burden of disea... more Tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-epidemics form a huge burden of disease in the Southeast Asia region. Five out of eleven nations in this region are high TB/HIV burden countries: Myanmar, Thailand, India, Indonesia and Nepal. The trends of TB incidence in these countries have been rising in recent years, in contrast to a falling global trend. Experts in the field of TB control and health service providers have been perplexed by the association of TB and HIV infections which causes a mosaic clinical presentation, a unique course with poor treatment outcomes including death. We conducted a review of contemporary evidence relating to TB/HIV control with the aims of assisting integrated health system responses in Southeast Asia and demystifying current evidence to facilitate translating it into practice.

Research paper thumbnail of Observation of genotype C infected chronic hepatitis B patients in clinical practice

The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries, 2011

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C is prevalent in many areas of the world includin... more Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C is prevalent in many areas of the world including Thailand and Southeast Asia. It is a strong risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by evidence. We aimed to describe the baseline clinical information of treatment naïve genotype C infected chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and to describe the treatment response by surrogate outcome markers in genotype C infected CHB patients after one year of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA) treatment Methodology: Thirty-four genotype C CHB patients were studied at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Bangkok, including 12 patients treated with lamivudine, 11 with telbivudine, 8 with adefovir, and 3 with entecavir. Serum HBV DNA levels, serum alanine amino transferase ( ALT ) levels, HBeAg status, and alpha-feto protein (AFP) levels were recorded at the start and after twelve months of ongoing treatment. HBV genotyping was performed by line-probe assay. Results: About half of the patients (58.8%) were H...

Research paper thumbnail of Reducing salt intake for prevention of cardiovascular diseases in high-risk patients by advanced health education intervention (RESIP-CVD study), Northern Thailand: study protocol for a cluster randomized trial

Trials, 2012

Background: Decreasing salt consumption can prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Practically, i... more Background: Decreasing salt consumption can prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Practically, it is difficult to promote people's awareness of daily salt intake and to change their eating habits in terms of reducing salt intake for better cardiovascular health. Health education programs visualizing daily dietary salt content and intake may promote lifestyle changes in patients at high risk of cardiovascular diseases. Methods/Design: This is a cluster randomized trial. A total of 800 high-CVD-risk patients attending diabetes and hypertension clinics at health centers in Muang District, Chiang Rai province, Thailand, will be studied with informed consent. A health center recruiting 100 participants is a cluster, the unit of randomization. Eight clusters will be randomized into intervention and control arms and followed up for 1 year. Within the intervention clusters the following will be undertaken: (1) salt content in the daily diet will be measured and shown to study participants; (2) 24-hour salt intake will be estimated in overnight-collected urine and the results shown to the participants; (3) a dietician will assist small group health education classes in cooking meals with less salt. The primary outcome is blood pressure change at the 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes at the 1-year follow-up are estimated 24-hoursalt intake, incidence of CVD events and CVD death. The intention-to-treat analysis will be followed. Blood pressure and estimated 24-hour salt intake will be compared between intervention and control groups at the cluster and individual level at the 1-year follow-up. Clinical CVD events and deaths will be analyzed by time-event analysis. Retinal blood vessel calibers of CVD-risk patients will be assessed cross-sectionally. Behavioral change to reduce salt intake and the influencing factors will be determined by structured equation model (SEM). Multilevel regression analyses will be applied. Finally, the cost effectiveness of the intervention will be analyzed.

Research paper thumbnail of Evidence-based new service package vs. routine service package for smoking cessation to prevent high risk patients from cardiovascular diseases (CVD): study protocol for randomized controlled trial

Trials, 2013

Background: Smoking cessation is a high-priority intervention to prevent CVD events and deaths in... more Background: Smoking cessation is a high-priority intervention to prevent CVD events and deaths in developing countries. While several interventions to stop smoking have been proved successful, the question of how to increase their effectiveness and practicality in developing countries remains. In this study, a newly devised evidence-based smoking cessation service package will be compared with the existing service in a randomized controlled trial within the community setting of Thailand.

Research paper thumbnail of Land cover in the Northern Forest Complex of Myanmar: new insights for conservation

Oryx, 2007

We classified land cover in the Northern Forest Complex in Myanmar using satellite imagery (MODIS... more We classified land cover in the Northern Forest Complex in Myanmar using satellite imagery (MODIS/NDVI) and field surveys carried out in 2001, 2004 and 2005. Using Landsat TM/ETM+ images from 1991 and 1999 we determined deforestation rates. The c. 22,000 km2 Northern Forest Complex, including the Hkakabo Razi National Park in northern Kachin State, is characterized by tropical to subtropical pristine forests with low human impact. The area studied, which includes land beyond the boundaries of Hkakabo Razi National Park, is of special conservation importance because it provides a refuge for many rare plant and animal species. Less than 1.4% of the area is affected by humans (excluding hunting) and deforestation rates are low at <0.01% annually. We observed several bird and mammal species that are considered threatened elsewhere. Based on our data, those of previous surveys, and the fact that >10 new vertebrate species have been described in the region since 1999, it is likely t...

Research paper thumbnail of Knowledge of communicable and noncommunicable diseases among Karen ethnic high school students in rural Thasongyang, the far northwest of Thailand

International Journal of General Medicine, 2013

Background: The double burden of communicable and noncommunicable diseases (NCD) is an increasing... more Background: The double burden of communicable and noncommunicable diseases (NCD) is an increasing trend in low-and-middle income developing countries. Rural and minority populations are underserved and likely to be affected severely by these burdens. Knowledge among young people could provide immunity to such diseases within a community in the long term. In this study we aimed to assess the knowledge of several highly prevalent NCDs (diabetes, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]) and several highly incident communicable diseases (malaria and diarrheal diseases) among Karen high school students in a rural district in far northwest of Thailand. The aim of the study is to explore information for devising life-course health education that will be strategically based in schools. Method: A cross-sectional survey approved by the ethics committee of Boromarajonani College of Nursing Nakhon Lampang (BCNLP), Lampang, Thailand was conducted in Thasongyang, Tak province, from September 2011 to January 2012. Questionnaires for assessing knowledge regarding diabetes, hypertension, COPD, malaria, and diarrheal diseases were delivered to all 457 Karen high school students attending Thasongyang high school. A total of 371 students returned the questionnaires. Experts' validation and split-half reliability assessment was applied to the instrument. Results: Students' main sources of health information were their teachers (62%), health care workers (60%), television (59%), and parents (54%). Familial risk factors of diabetes and hypertension were not known to more than two thirds of the students. Except obesity and physical inactivity, lifestyle-related risk factors were also not known to the students. Though living in a malaria-endemic area, many of the Karen students had poor knowledge about preventive behaviors. Half of the students could not give a correct answer about the malaria and hygienic practice, which might normally be traditionally relayed messages. Conclusion: Health education and knowledge about common NCD and communicable diseases are yet to be prompted among the Karen students. A broader and more comprehensive school-based health education strategy for prevention of double burden diseases would benefit the rural minority population at the Thai-Myanmar border.

Research paper thumbnail of Predicting prediabetes in a rural community: a survey among the Karen ethnic community, Thasongyang, Thailand

International Journal of General Medicine, 2012

Background: Diabetes is a growing epidemic in both urban and rural communities worldwide. Aim: We... more Background: Diabetes is a growing epidemic in both urban and rural communities worldwide. Aim: We aimed to survey fasting plasma glucose (FPG) status and awareness of diabetes in the rural Karen ethnic community. We investigated the predictors of impaired fasting plasma glucose (IFG) status, which would be easily applicable for prevention of diabetes in a rural community. Materials and methods: This was a community-based cross-sectional study conducted at Thasongyang, the most northwestern district in Thailand. A total of 299 Karen ethnic rural residents were included in the study. FPG, body mass index, and waist circumference were prospectively measured. We assessed the awareness of diabetes and lifestyle-related health behavior with closed questionnaires in a rural community setting. Results: On screening for FPG, 16.72% of the Karen ethnic residents had hyperglycemia: 3.68% in the diabetic range and 13.04% in the prediabetic range respectively. After adjustment for age, sex, and BMI, waist circumference (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-9.57), and having a diabetic blood relative (aOR 4.6, CI 1.81-11.71) are significant predictors of IFG status. Conclusion: It is necessary to promote awareness of diabetes among the Karen ethnic community. Application of simple evidence-based predictors of the prediabetic state may lead to timely and effective prevention of diabetes in rural settings.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessing awareness and knowledge of hypertension in an at-risk population in the Karen ethnic rural community, Thasongyang, Thailand

International Journal of General Medicine, 2012

Background: Hypertension is currently a global health concern. Rural and minority populations are... more Background: Hypertension is currently a global health concern. Rural and minority populations are increasingly exposed to risk factors as a result of urbanization, leading to hypertension and cardiovascular disease. We conducted a survey in the rural Karen community in Thasongyang District, Tak Province, Thailand, with the aims of determining: the distribution of blood pressure across different age groups; the prevalence of hypertension and other risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including diabetes, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and excess alcohol use; knowledge and awareness of hypertension as a disease; and knowledge and awareness of risk factors for hypertension among the population at risk. Methods: This was a community-based, cross-sectional survey of 298 rural Karen residents. A set of questionnaires assessing lifestyle-related health risk behaviors and awareness and knowledge of hypertension were used. Blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, weight, height, and waist circumference were measured. Results: Median systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 110 (range 100-120) mmHg and 70 (range 60-80) mmHg, respectively. High blood pressure was observed in more than 27% of the population, with 15% being hypertensive and 12% being prehypertensive. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that people in the Karen community who were aware of hypertension were less likely to be current smokers (odds ratio [OR] 0.53, confidence interval [CI] 0.29-0.97) and those with primary school education were more likely to be aware of hypertension than those who did not have a primary school education (OR 6.5, CI 1.9-22.24). Overall, our survey showed that less than half of the Karen community had such knowledge and awareness. Conclusion: It is urgently necessary to promote knowledge, awareness, and health literacy among the ethnic Karen tribes to prevent hypertension and associated CVDs.

Research paper thumbnail of Prospective evaluation of simply modified MODS assay: an effective tool for TB diagnosis and detection of MDR-TB

Infection and Drug Resistance, 2012

Background and setting: Thailand is one of the highest tuberculosis (TB)-burdened countries. Chia... more Background and setting: Thailand is one of the highest tuberculosis (TB)-burdened countries. Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand has high tuberculosis and human i mmunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence and the laboratory workload for TB culture and drug susceptibility testing is increasing. Objectives: To evaluate the simply modified microscopic-observation drug-susceptibility assay (MODS) in the setting of a developing country. Methods: In this cross-sectional diagnostic study, a total of 202 sputum samples of clinically diagnosed TB patients were used to test the performance of MODS assay in reference to gold standard BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960 liquid culture system and Ogawa solid culture. Sputum samples were collected from clinically diagnosed TB patients. Culture growth rate and time to culture positivity were compared among three methods. Performance of modified MODS assay was evaluated for detection of mycobacterium drug resistance in reference to MGIT antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST). Result: Median time to culture positivity by MODS, solid, and liquid culture were 12, 30, and 6 days respectively. Compared to the drug susceptibility test (DST) result of reference liquid culture, the sensitivity and specificity of MODS for detection of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) was 85.7% and 97.5% respectively. MODS assay has a positive predicative value of 80% and negative predictive value of 96.5% for isoniazid resistance, 70% and 100% for rifampicin resistance, and 66.7% and 99.1% for MDR-TB. Conclusion: MODS is a highly effective screening test for detection of MDR-TB.

Research paper thumbnail of Causes of mortality among tuberculosis and HIV co-infected patients in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care, 2012

The case fatality rate in patients with tuberculosis (TB) associated with human immunodeficiency ... more The case fatality rate in patients with tuberculosis (TB) associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been particularly high in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand. It was almost 50% before the introduction of antiretroviral therapy in the last decade, and was still at 28% in 2008, despite expanding access to antiretroviral therapy. Reviewing the causes of death may lead to further understanding of the timeline and natural history of TB-HIV coinfection, and in so doing help to devise an effective prevention strategy in Chiang Rai. In this study, we aimed to investigate the distribution of confirmed causes of death in patients coinfected with TB and HIV in Chiang Rai, describe the causes of such deaths along the timeline of TB treatment, and identify predictors of each cause of death. Methods: In this retrospective study, we reviewed the causes of death for 331 patients who died of TB-HIV coinfection at Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital from 2005 to 2008. Causes of death were confirmed by reviewing medical records, vital registration, and the TB register in the province, as well as obtaining reconfirmation by two experienced HIV physicians. Results: The confirmed causes of death were TB (39%), acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related opportunistic infections other than TB (AOI) (29%), and other systemic diseases which were neither TB nor AIDS-related opportunistic infections (nonTB-nonAOI) (16%). The definitive cause could not be confirmed in the remaining 16% of deaths. After starting the TB treatment, deaths caused by TB occurred earlier compared with deaths caused by AOI, which occurred steadily throughout the course of TB treatment, whilst deaths caused by non-TB-nonAOI increased gradually in later months. Further analysis by multivariate multinomial regression analysis showed that deaths in the first month (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.49-8.63), CD4 count  200 cells/mm 3 (aOR 5.33, CI 1.05-26.10), non-category 1 TB treatment regimens (aOR 5.23, CI 1.04-9.77), and TB meningitis (aOR 3.27, CI 1.37-7.82) were significant predictors of confirmed TB deaths. Moreover, age over 45 years (aOR 3, CI 1.32-6.84) and admission as an inpatient were predictors of death caused by neither TB nor AIDS-related opportunistic infections (aOR 3.08, CI 1.39-6.80). Additional analysis showed that non-Thai patients (aOR 0.35, CI 0.12-0.99), those with an unknown CD4 count at TB diagnosis (aOR 0.16, CI 0.08-0.33), and those without an HIV diagnosis before TB treatment (aOR 0.32, CI 0.18-0.59) were less able to access antiretroviral therapy. Conclusion: The timeline and predictors of causes of death may assist in devising an intervention strategy for further reduction of the TB-HIV case fatality rate.

Research paper thumbnail of Automated Assessment of Voltage Sag Performance at Low Voltage Buses?

The paper describes the software for the assessment of voltage sag performance at low voltage bus... more The paper describes the software for the assessment of voltage sag performance at low voltage buses based on available sag performance at point of common coupling (PCC). The sag performance at the PCC can be obtained either through computer simulations or from long term measurements. The software takes into account the influence of downstream transformers and induction motors and correspondingly accounts for the changes in sag characteristics per phase. In this way, more realistic characteristics of sags at equipment terminals can be determined.