Evaluating Hydrological Model Performances on Stream Flow Simulation with Agricultural Management

Two comprehensive agricultural watershed-scale hydrological models: Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), and Annualized Agricultural Non-Point Source Pollution Model (AnnAGNPS), have been widely used for evaluating agricultural Best Management Practice (BMP). In this study, models were developed for the Big Sunflower River Watershed (BSRW) in Mississippi, USA. Both hydrological models were successfully calibrated and validated for predicting monthly stream flow discharges from three USGS gages (Merigold, Sunflower, and Leland) within the BSRW. The model performances were reasonable with R2 and NSE values range from 0.45 to 0.84 for SWAT, and from 0.34 to 0.66 for AnnAGNPS. Both models predicted lower stream flow discharge with conservation tillage practice as compare to conventional tillage practice BMP evaluated in this study. Overall, results showed that both SWAT and AnnAGNPS models successfully simulated hydrological conditions of the watershed with agricultural BMP, and these models can be useful for making hydrological decisions related to agricultural watershed managements. Keywords: SWAT, AnnAGNPS, tillage, streamflow, hydrology, BMP DOI: 10.7176/JEP/12-3-03 Publication date: January 31st 202

SWAT bacteria sub-model evaluation and application

Doctor of PhilosophyDepartment of Biological & Agricultural EngineeringKyle R. MankinThe overall goal of this study was to evaluate and apply the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for fecal bacteria modeling. Methods were developed to characterize fecal coliform bacteria (FCB) from livestock, human, and wildlife sources to use as input in the model. Model sensitivity to predict FCB concentration was evaluated for the model parameters and input parameters using both SWAT 2000 and 2005 versions. Sensitivity of input parameters generally, ranked as Bacteria concentration ≥ TBACT > Wildlife source loads > Livestock stocking rate ≥ Livestock manure production rate > BACTKDQ for SWAT 2000 whereas it was ranked as BACTKDQ > TBACT > Bacteria concentration > WDLPQ > WDLPS for SWAT 2005. Sensitivity of model and input parameters were found changed from SWAT 2000. The SWAT (2005) model was calibrated and validated for daily flow, sediment, and fecal bacteria concentration using one year of measured data (January to December, 2004). The SWAT model predicted results with poor to very good agreement when compared with measured data with coefficient of determination (R2) and Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency Index (E) range of 0.10 to 0.89 for daily flows, sediment, total phosphorus, total nitrogen and total FCB concentration. More extensive in-stream data are needed for more comprehensive model assessment. The SWAT model (2005) was evaluated for source-specific FCB modeling using three years (2004-2006) of observed modified deterministic probability of bacteria source tracking (BST) data. The FCB sources were modeled with three combinations (livestock and human, livestock and wildlife, wildlife and human) and each single source to evaluate the source-specific FCB concentrations. The SWAT model determined poor to good agreement for the combined source of FCB (R2, E range from -2.92 to 0.71) but determined generally decreased agreement for each single source of bacteria (R2, E range from -5.03 to 0.39) potentially due to BST uncertainty, spatial variability and source characterization. The SWAT model identified critical sub-watersheds in the watershed where implementing vegetative filter strips (VFS) could be most effective to abate fecal bacteria pollution. The targeting method of VFS application to the watershed sub-basins was found to be more effective in reducing both FCB (60% vs. 42%) and sediment yield (63% vs. 33%) as compared to a random approach. The FCB source characterization methods for modeling developed in this study are general and have the potential to be extended to other watersheds. The results of this study demonstrate that the SWAT model can be used to characterize the distribution of bacteria sources within a bacteria impaired watershed and assist with developing total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and watershed restoration strategies

Integration of biochemistry into an organ system based medical curriculum using problem based learning

Medical schools devote considerable time to impart knowledge of biochemistry to medical students for the effective practice of clinical medicine. However, there is a challenge to effectively deliver the biochemistry curriculum in an appropriate clinical context. At Patan Academy of Health Sciences different strategies were under taken to integrate biochemistry curriculum with other basic science disciplines in the context of organ system based curriculum during the undergraduate, curriculum development. Although major portion of the curriculum is covered using PBL; seminars and laboratory sessions along with lectures were also used. After the implementation of curriculum, in-depth interview was used to analyze students' perception on biochemistry curriculum integration. The analysis revealed that students were convinced with the arrangement of curricular content and integrated delivery through PBL, lecture and practical sessions in different blocks except for Principles of Human Biology (PHB) I and PHB II.Keywords: basic science, integrated curriculum, biochemistry, PBL, undergraduate medical studen

Aortic Dissection: The Insidious Menace

Introduction: Aortic dissection represents a critical emergency characterized by the cleavage of aortic wall layers, creating a deceptive false lumen. Associated with high mortality rates, prompt diagnosis and intervention are needed to ensure survival. Case: A 63-year-old male with no significant medical history presented to the emergency with two days of worsening mid-sternal chest pain. Upon presentation, he was hemodynamically stable. Blood pressure was 130/85 mm Hg (similar in both arms), heart rate 90 bpm, and saturating 98 % on room air. Physical examination did not reveal any new murmurs. EKG showed normal sinus rhythm, no ischemic changes, and a negative troponin50), but given low clinical suspicion for a pulmonary embolism, a CT angiography (CTA) was not pursued, especially since Wells Score was 3. The patient did meet one criterion (chest pain) for The Aortic Dissection Detection Risk Score, but unfortunately, neither a D-Dimer nor CTA was performed due to low clinical suspicion. Chest pain improved after Aspirin, sublingual Nitroglycerin, and Morphine. Troponin was negative x 2. A transthoracic echocardiogram, conducted after a delay of ten hours, disclosed a dilated aortic root measuring 4.7 cm and a 5 cm dilated ascending aorta. Additionally, a linear echo-density exhibiting flow, corroborated by color Doppler, raised suspicion of aortic dissection originating close to the right coronary cusp. Cardiothoracic surgery was immediately consulted, and a CTA was ordered. Regrettably, twenty minutes later, the patient became unresponsive with PEA cardiac arrest, and CPR was initiated. After 18 minutes of CPR, there was no return of spontaneous circulation, and the patient was pronounced deceased. Discussion: Our case underscores the deceptive nature of aortic dissection, which can present with benign physical examination, labs, and radiographic findings. In cases of uncertainty, prompt imaging with transthoracic/ transesophageal echocardiography or CTA should be performed as early detection and treatment can significantly improve prognosis

Quality of life of elderly people living with family and in old age home in Morang District, Nepal

Introduction: Nepal like many other developing countries in the world is witnessing the rapid ageing of population. Quality of life (QOL) of elderly people is becoming even more relevant towards an ageing society. In Nepal, less is known regarding special needs and quality of life of elderly people either in familial situations or in old age residences. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to assess and compare the quality of life of elderly living with the family and in old age home. Methodology: A Cross sectional descriptive study was conducted from October 2016 to April 2017 among elderly population aged 60 years and above. A total of 50 elderly people were enrolled from old age home (OAH) using total enumeration sampling technique and equal number of sample was selected from the family setting. QOL of elderly was assessed using WHOQOL-BRIEF questionnaire after taking informed consent from the participants. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Results: The mean scores of QOL domains were better among the age group 60-70 years, males, married, literates and who had children. The mean scores of QOL in physical, psychological and environmental domains were better in elderly living with the family than living in OAH. Low scores were found on social domain among elderly compared to other domain irrespective of their residence. Conclusion: QOL score among elderly is average, while social relationship domain of QOL scores was found to be low. Social activities should be expanded for these residents in order to promote social health. The QOL which each individual possesses is very important in all aspects be it physical, psychological, social &amp; environmental. Furthermore, programs that help elderly people live in their own homes and social environments should be promoted.BIBECHANA 16 (2019) 221-227</p

Assessment of Best Management Practices on Hydrology and Sediment Yield at Watershed Scale in Mississippi Using SWAT

The selection and execution of appropriate best management practices (BMPs) in critical areas of a watershed can effectively reduce sediment yield. Objectives of this research include developing a watershed-scale Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for the Big Sunflower River Watershed (BSRW), identifying high sediment yield areas using calibrated and validated model, and assessing the effects of various BMPs. The efficiency of three BMPs, grassed waterways (GWW), vegetative filter strips (VFS), and grade stabilization structures (GSS), and their combinations in reducing sediment yield, were investigated. The model performed well for streamflow (P-factor = 0.72&ndash;0.87; R-factor = 0.74&ndash;1.27; R2 = 0.60&ndash;0.86; NSE = 0.60&ndash;0.86) and total suspended solids (TSS) (P-factor = 0.56&ndash;0.89; R-factor = 0.43&ndash;2.83; R2 = 0.62&ndash;0.91; NSE = 0.38&ndash;0.91) during calibration and validation. The simulation of individual BMPs revealed that GWW showed the highest sediment yield reduction (up to 44%), followed by VFS (up to 38%) and GSS (up to 7%). Two BMPs&rsquo; combinations showed that GSS and GWW had the largest sediment yield reduction potential (up to 47%) while VFS and GSS had the lowest potential (up to 42%). Similarly, a combination of all three BMPs reduced the sediment yield up to 50%. The findings of this study will aid in sustainable watershed management and will be valuable for watershed managers and planners

Assessment of Best Management Practices on Hydrology and Sediment Yield at Watershed Scale in Mississippi Using SWAT

The selection and execution of appropriate best management practices (BMPs) in critical areas of a watershed can effectively reduce sediment yield. Objectives of this research include developing a watershed-scale Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for the Big Sunflower River Watershed (BSRW), identifying high sediment yield areas using calibrated and validated model, and assessing the effects of various BMPs. The efficiency of three BMPs, grassed waterways (GWW), vegetative filter strips (VFS), and grade stabilization structures (GSS), and their combinations in reducing sediment yield, were investigated. The model performed well for streamflow (P-factor = 0.72–0.87; R-factor = 0.74–1.27; R2 = 0.60–0.86; NSE = 0.60–0.86) and total suspended solids (TSS) (P-factor = 0.56–0.89; R-factor = 0.43–2.83; R2 = 0.62–0.91; NSE = 0.38–0.91) during calibration and validation. The simulation of individual BMPs revealed that GWW showed the highest sediment yield reduction (up to 44%), followed by VFS (up to 38%) and GSS (up to 7%). Two BMPs’ combinations showed that GSS and GWW had the largest sediment yield reduction potential (up to 47%) while VFS and GSS had the lowest potential (up to 42%). Similarly, a combination of all three BMPs reduced the sediment yield up to 50%. The findings of this study will aid in sustainable watershed management and will be valuable for watershed managers and planners