bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated with the Place of Delivery among Urban Poor Societies in Indonesia
Authors: Ipa Mara , Laksono Agung D. , Aggraeni Yusnita M. , Rohmah Nikmatur
Published: December 2023

Background:

Pregnant women in urban poor societies are vulnerable groups. Due to low financial capacity, there are obstacles to accessing delivery in an institution for poor women in urban areas. The study analyses factors associated with the delivery place among pregnant women in urban poor society in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods:

The study analyzed secondary data from the 2017 Indonesian Demographic and Health Survey (IDHS). A total of 1,562 samples were childbearing-age women (15–49 years) who gave birth in an urban poor society in Indonesia in the last 5 years. The study examined some variables, such as delivery place, age, education, employment, marital status, parity, insurance, knowledge of pregnancy danger, antenatal care (ANC), the autonomy of health, and family finance autonomy. The study employed binary logistic regression in the final stage.

Results:

The results show that age is associated with the place of delivery. The higher the education, the higher the possibility for delivery in an institution. Being employed and having partners are protective factors for women in institution delivery. The likelihood of giving birth in a medical facility decreases as more children are born alive. In addition, having health insurance, thorough ANC visits, knowledge of pregnancy danger symptoms, and health autonomy are protective factors for pregnant women having deliveries in medical facilities. On the contrary, pregnant women who rely solely on family financing have a higher chance of delivering in a medical facility.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that 10 variables were associated with pregnant women’s delivery in Indonesia’s urban poor society: age, education, employment, marital, parity, insurance, pregnancy danger knowledge, ANC, health autonomy, and family finance autonomy.
Family Planning from a Male Perspective: Observations from a Community-Based Cross-sectional Study in Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Shruthee SG , Deepanchakravarthi V
Published: December 2023

Traditionally, family planning has been considered in the context of maternal and child health, although men play a dominant role in all matters related to reproductive decision-making. This study is carried out to assess the attitude and participation in family planning among currently married males and identify factors influencing the acceptance of male contraception. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Chennai in October 2018, which included 180 currently married men by systematic random sampling of eligible couples in the field practice area of Sanjeevarayanpet Primary Health Center (UPHC). Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire in the local language and analyzed using SPSS version 16. Absolute and relative frequencies were estimated for descriptive data while correlates were tested for statistical significance using Pearson or Trend Chi-square tests. Study participants considered two children (82%) and spacing of at least 2 years (95%) as ideal, with spousal communication regarding family planning considered essential by a two-thirds majority. Among the 117 men who reported ever using contraception as a couple, 69% had used a condom vs. 42% and 30% for female spacing methods and tubectomy, respectively. Vasectomy, with nil acceptors, was considered acceptable by only 21% of men. Education, per-capita income, and spousal communication were seen to positively influence male contraceptive use. While married men show considerable commitment to family planning decision-making and practice, the stigma and misconceptions surrounding vasectomy have become ever more prominent. There is a need for the community and the health care system to work together to promote gender equity in family planning.
An ensemble of ResNet model for classification of Parkinson disease
Authors: Mahendran Muthukumarasamy , Visalakshi R.
Published: December 2023

Parkinson disease (PD) is one of the neurological illnesses incurred. However, there is a no chance to recognize PD. A fine motor symptom has been identified in this study. A group of patients with PD, as well as the healthy group, is used in the research. The authors have developed a technique that can determine whether a patient has PD or not. Using deep learning methods, the same design generalizing neural networks in the brain can be solved. The categorization of patients with PD and non-PD behavior is found from the analysis of spiral and wave forms using CNN model. Various CNN models were used in the experiment by transfer learning and spiral and wave data sketches. With the help of spiral sketching, the system achieved an accuracy of 96.67% using the ResNet50 model. The main objective of this paper is to explore the application of transfer learning, which improved the performance of the model.
Herbomineral form of Eclipta alba (HMEA) improves age-related dementia by increasing memory performance in animal models: An in vivo approach to investigate the multitherapeutic potential of antioxidant-based Ayurvedic drugs
Authors: Abubakkar Meher Nisha , Biswas Abir , Rathinam Anitha , Surya Kumar , Murugesan Jenani , Sherlin Ajitha , Jayachandran Kesavan Swaminathan , Prashanth Giri , Anusuyadevi Muthuswamy
Published: December 2023

Dementia is a consequential event due to neurodegeneration, which is a prevalent aspect of aging and other diseases associated with neuropathological conditions. The main contributor to dementia is the depletion of neurons in cognitive centers that results in cognitive decline. Cellular damage and apoptosis can occur due to excessive oxidative stress and reduced antioxidant levels. Epidemiological research provides valuable insights into dementia, but current treatments primarily focus on alleviating symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. Both modern and traditional medicines recognize the importance of maintaining cellular antioxidant levels and reduction in amyloid beta aggregation, often relying on natural sources for support. The identification of herbal plants with abundant pharmacologically active secondary metabolites shows promise in the treatment of dementia. Eclipta alba is an ancient traditional herb that elicits nootropic effects. This study reports that the herbomineral form of E. alba (HMEA) constitutes pharmacologically active metabolites and enhances memory and learning in 9- to 12-month-old albino wistar rats. Interestingly, HMEA enhanced learning and memory in adult rats with no significant toxicity, and found to stabilize lipid profile levels in animal models. Histopathological studies of animals showed that HMEA enhanced overall cytoarchitecture of granular cell layer in the hippocampus. It depicts improved cellular morphology, arrangement, and density in the hippocampal region. Taken together, the current study proves HMEA to be an efficient neuroprotective agent in treating age-related dementia.
Platelet-Rich Plasma in Androgenetic Alopecia: Is It Really Worth the Hype?
Authors: Agarwal Pooja , Gajjar Krishna M. , Jagati Ashish , Chaudhari Snehal V. , Rathod Santoshdev P.
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is defined as progressive, patterned hair loss that occurs as a result of androgen-mediated conversion of terminal hairs to vellus hairs. By the age of 60 years, 45% of men and 35% of women develop AGA. The Hamilton–Norwood scale is used to assess the extent and severity of AGA and classify the stages of male pattern hair loss in men, whereas the Ludwig scale is preferred for women. Currently, U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for AGA include oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. Due to the limited number of effective therapies for AGA, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has become an effective alternative treatment. A number of studies on PRP have shown promising results, leading to increased hair density and thickness with minimal or no side effects.

Aims:

We aim to study the safety, efficacy, and side effects of PRP therapy in patients of AGA and to study demographic data in the form of age, sex, age of onset of hair loss, and grade of AGA in patients.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty patients, 38 males and 12 females, with AGA were enrolled in the study. PRP was prepared using a double-spin method. Upon activation, PRP was injected in the involved areas of scalp once every 2 weeks for 6 months. Follow-up photos were taken every 3 months.

Results:

At 6 months, majority of the patients (45%) were unsatisfied and showed no change in hair growth after PRP therapy and few patients were lost in follow-up. Adverse effects were minimal and no long-term serious adverse effects were noted.

Conclusion:

We conclude from the results in our study that PRP therapy is not significantly effective in treatment of AGA. There is a need to develop standard protocols with regard to total length of PRP therapy and spacing between the two sessions of PRP for AGA.
Orofacial Uses of Botox in Dentistry and their Associated Risks: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Demyati AK , Nassar AA
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Various healthcare professionals, including dentists, provide botulinum toxin (Botox) for cosmetic and therapeutic treatment. In dentistry, it has multiple uses, such as gummy smile, bruxism, sialorrhea, muscle spasm, and orofacial pain, yet unwanted side effects may arise.

Aims:

This study aimed to investigate the participants’ perspective regarding the scope of Botox in dentistry and its associated risk, provider involvement, and factors affecting the choice of which healthcare professions administer Botox injections in Saudi Arabia.

Methods and Materials:

A cross-sectional study using an online self-administered survey distributed through social media accounts among adults living in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. Four hundred male and female adults were invited to participate. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were used in the study.

Results:

A total of 256 responses were collected from 204 females and 51 males with a mean age of 33.86 (SD = 10.5) years. Collected data demonstrated knowledge of various Botox indications, which include wrinkle reduction (216 (84.4%)), treatment of muscle spasms (186 (72.7%)), and management of gummy smile (178 (69.5%)). Regarding the side effects, participants chose infections (182 (71.1%)), bruising (180 (70.3%)), and drooping in the eye (176 (68.7%)). Participants selected family and friends as the primary source of their information on Botox treatment. The majority preferred a plastic surgeon, followed by an oral maxillofacial surgeon, to provide the Botox treatment.

Conclusions:

The usage of Botox therapy in the field of dentistry has increased significantly. Participants had an acceptable level of knowledge regarding the use of Botox in esthetic practices but lacked knowledge of the therapeutic scope of Botox therapy. The majority of participants had no doubt about the medical professionals administering Botox. It is advised to educate the public about the extent of Botox treatment and offer a trustworthy source of information required.
Prevalence of Doppler-Derived Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction Among Newly Diagnosed Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Abubakar IG , Buba F , Oyati AI , Talle MA , Anjorin CO
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

The initial sign of hypertensive heart disease (HHD) is left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), which is caused by remodeling of the left ventricle and left atrium, resulting in impaired relaxation of the left ventricle. LVDD is also partly due to left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). If left untreated, LVDD can progress to diastolic heart failure and systolic heart failure. In Western countries, the prevalence of LVDD in long-term hypertensive patients ranges from 40.3% to 60%, but it is more common among hypertensive Nigerians. Since systemic hypertension can be asymptomatic in the early stages, it is important to evaluate LVDD early and control blood pressure to slow down its progression.

Aims and Objectives:

The study aims to highlight the prevalence of LVDD and to determine the stages of LVDD among newly diagnosed hypertensive patients at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).

Method:

The study design is a hospital-based, cross-sectional, observational study. The study population consists of 352 consecutive treatment Naïve hypertensive adult patients aged 18 years and above who presented to the Cardiology Clinic of UMTH from June 2019 to June 2021. The study used the diagnostic criteria for LVDD and LVH which were based on the American Society of Echocardiography and the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging.

Results:

A total of 352 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients were recruited, with a mean age of 50.9 ± 11.8 years, and 54.3% were female. The majority of patients (63.6%) were overweight or obese, with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 28.5 ± 4.6 kg/m2. The mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) was 155.7 ± 16.9 mmHg, and the mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was 92.8 ± 10.8 mmHg. LVDD was found in 58.5% of the patients, with stage 1 LVDD being the most common (42.6%), followed by stage 2 LVDD (15.9%). The prevalence of LVDD was significantly higher in females compared to males. Patients with LVDD were significantly older and had higher BMI, higher systolic and DBP, higher pulse pressure, higher LAVI, and higher LVMI compared to those without LVDD (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

LVDD is highly prevalent among newly diagnosed hypertensive patients, with stage 1 being the most common. Female gender, older age, higher BMI, higher blood pressure, higher LAVI, and higher LVMI were significant predictors of LVDD. Early detection and appropriate management of LVDD may help to prevent adverse cardiovascular outcomes in hypertensive patients.
Misconceptions about Oral Diagnosis and Radiology among Dental Students: A Questionnaire Study
Authors: Okumuş Ö , Yurdabakan ZZ
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Misconceptions are learning deficits that may cause clinical judgments in a dental practice to be made incorrectly.

Aim:

This study aimed to identify and look into students’ misconceptions regarding Oral Diagnosis and Radiology.

Materials and Methods:

The fourth and fifth-grade students at the Altınbaş University Faculty of Dentistry were given a self-administered questionnaire that included multiple-choice questions about Oral Diagnosis/Medicine and Radiology. 106 students participated in the questionnaire and 50.9% of the participants were fourth-grade students, 49.1% of them were fifth-grade students. The questions were classified into two parts: five scenario-based questions and ten knowledge-based questions. Students’ replies were evaluated for accuracy and confidence, and when a student was certain of giving an inaccurate response, misconceptions were noted. Two groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney-U test (P = 0.05).

Results:

A total of 1590 responses were collected. Regarding the question type, scenario-based questions had more misconceptions (19.6%) than knowledge-based questions (18.4%). Depending on the question, the majority of misconceptions were seen in the questions about denture stomatitis (46.2%) and radiographic contrast (38.7%).

Conclusions:

To prevent misdiagnosis, it is essential to recognize and overcome misconceptions in Oral Diagnosis/Medicine and Radiology. Therefore this study assists students and lecturers in defining misconceptions and organizing precautions to avoid and fix them.
Impact of Perceived Social Support and Depression in Married Turkish Women on the Sexual Quality of Life: An Online Survey
Authors: Gök Ç. , Yücel U , Okuyan YÇ , Akmeşe ZB
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Sexual life is very important for people’s physical health, psychological health, and reproductive health. Depression and social support are among the factors that affect the quality of sexual life.

Aim:

The present study aimed to determine the impact of perceived social support on the sexual quality of life and depression in married women between the ages of 18 and 49.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 976 married women aged 18 to 49 were included in this cross-sectional study in which an online data collection method was used Sexual Life Quality Scale, Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, and Beck Depression Scale, which were used as data collection tools. Statistical analysis used: Analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.0. Descriptive statistics were used for number, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as independent group t-test, correlation, and regression analysis. The “Enter” model was used in the logistic regression analysis.

Results:

It was established that nearly one-third of married women aged 18-49 had low levels of perceived social support and sexual quality of life, and almost half of them experienced symptoms of depression. The quality of sexual life was 3.6 times (P = 0.001) lower in those with low social support and 1.6 times (P = 0.024) lower in those with depression.

Conclusion:

Considering the fact that women’s sexual problems, low social support and depression are important predictors of sexual quality of life, special attention should be paid to increasing social support to women, handling women’s sexual problems more carefully, and detecting and treating such problems.
A Comparison of the Efficacy of Cannulated Screws against Modified Tension Band Wire in the Management of Slightly Displaced Fractures of the Patella: A Novel Technique
Authors: Menekse S
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Aim:

The study aimed to compare the outcomes of Open Reduction and Cannulated Screw Fixation (ORCF) and Open Reduction and Tension Band Wire Fixation (ORTF) for treating minimally displaced patellar fractures, with the intention to discern the more efficacious surgical method in terms of various clinical and radiographic parameters.

Methods:

The research was a retrospective controlled trial encompassing 63 patients, culminating in a final data set of 52 patients with transverse patellar fractures with less than 8 mm of displacement. Patients were assessed postoperatively at three, six, and twelve months using measures such as the Lysholm score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, and goniometry for active knee extensions and flexion. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.0.

Results:

Results indicated superior clinical outcomes for the ORCF group at twelve months post-treatment, with notable higher Lysholm scores and lower VAS scores for pain at three-, six-, and twelve-month intervals. The ORCF group also demonstrated improved flexion and range of motion, with an average fracture healing time of 2.65 months and significantly lower complication rates, compared to the ORTF group.

Conclusions:

The ORCF method, leveraging headless compression screws and cerclage wire fixation, emerges as a promising approach for managing minimally displaced transverse patellar fractures, potentially offering improved clinical results and patient satisfaction in comparison to the traditional ORTF method. Further expansive and diverse studies are warranted to substantiate these findings.
How Mental Health Correlates with Subjective Oral Health Status: A Cross-Sectional Study among a Group of University Students
Authors: AlJameel AH , AlSaleh LS , Bawazir NH , AlOmair AS , Almalki SA
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Aim:

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between subjective oral health status and mental illness in a group of university students in Riyadh City of Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

A self-report questionnaire collected data on demographics, subjective oral health and mental health. The Arabic version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scales were administered. Students’ participation was voluntary. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

Results:

A total of 614 students participated in the study, 45.28% (n = 278) were males and 54.72% (n = 336) were females. Oral health status was assessed, and most participants rated their oral health status as good 53.75% (n = 330). This study also assessed mental health among the participants and found that 50.49% (n = 310) of students were suffering from different degrees of depression. Approximately, 46.74% (n = 247) of students reported experiencing certain degrees of generalized anxiety disorder. Mental disorders were significantly correlated with subjective oral health status, since participants who rated their oral health as poor or very poor tended to have higher PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores. In conclusion, the findings showed a notable relationship between mental disorders and subjective oral health status among a group of university students. Therefore, the results can be used to help improve service provision, which would ultimately enhance students’ mental health.
Management Outcomes of Hand Dermatitis in a Tertiary Hospital in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Otrofanowei E , Ayanlowo OO , Akinkugbe AO , Oresanya FA
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Hand dermatitis (HD) is inflammation of the skin of the hands. It ranges in severity and has a significant impact on quality of life (QoL). The physical and psychosocial burden of the disease is comparable with psoriasis in impairment of the QoL of the patient and depression. Quality of life correlates with disease severity.

Aim:

To evaluate the management outcome of HD with a disease severity tool by the physician and quality of life index.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study of a cohort of patients with HD over 24 weeks in the dermatology clinic of a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Disease severity and quality of life were measured using the physician global assessment (PGA) and dermatology life quality index (DLQI), respectively. These were re-administered 6 weeks after treatment. Results were collated and analyzed.

Results:

One hundred and seventy-seven (13.3%) of 1,329 patients had HD with F/M ratio of 1.2: 1; a mean age of 34.6 ± 7.4 years. Comparing PGA scores at baseline and 6 weeks, a statistically significant improvement was noted P < 0.001. The mean DLQI score at baseline was 10.38 and reduced to 3.02 post-treatment. The difference between the two means of the DLQI was ≥5 from baseline signifying improved quality of life. The domain of symptoms and feelings was the most affected at baseline and most improved afterward.

Conclusion:

HD has a significant impact on its sufferers and this correlates with disease severity. Appropriate management improves disease outcome and patients’ quality of life.
Knowledge about Cervical Cancer Prevention and Screening in Women with Cervical Cancer Attending Gynecological Services in Southern Mozambique
Authors: Nhangave AV , Evaristo BLC , Osório D , Muhiwa A , Nacarapa E , Ramos JM , Munyangaju I
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Mozambique has high rates of cervical cancer and cancer-related deaths among women. A high rate of refusal and low acceptance of treatment is observed among cervical cancer patients. The extent of their knowledge of the disease is unknown.

Objectives:

To assess knowledge about this disease (prevention, risk factors, and the possibilities of early diagnosis) in women with cervical cancer attended in gynecological services in Gaza province, Mozambique.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study took place in the city of Xai-Xai at the Provincial Hospital of Xai-Xai (HPXX) in the southern province of Gaza (Mozambique). Non-probability convenience sampling was used. Eligible patients (women) aged 35–50 years, diagnosed with cervical cancer and followed at the HPXX in the second quarter of 2021 (n = 60), took part in the survey during their scheduled consultations. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS statistical software (version 16).

Results:

The study included 60 women, 39 (65%) HIV positive. More than half (55.0%) believed that having a single sexual partner was an effective form of prevention; 50.0% reported that excessive alcohol consumption and having many sexual partners could cause the disease, and 46.7% affirmed that having many children increased the risk. Thirty-eight (63.3%) women reported that early diagnosis of cervical cancer was important for receiving prompt treatment, and 54 (90.0%) said regular visits to the gynecologist were important for an early diagnosis. Thirty-five (58.3%) mentioned acetic acid screening as a diagnostic test.

Conclusions:

There are significant gaps in awareness of cervical cancer among high-risk groups.
Finite approximation properties of $C^{*}$-modules II
Authors: Amini Massoud
Published: December 2023

We study quasidiagonality and local reflexivity for

C^{*}

-algebras which are

C^{*}

-module over another

C^{*}

-algebra with compatible actions. We introduce and study a notion of amenability for vector valued traces.
Travel and Social Isolation of People With Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Wang Weixuan , Cole Shu
Published: December 2023

Background

People with spinal cord injury (SCI) are at high risk for social isolation because they face barriers to social participation owing to limitations in physical functioning, secondary health conditions, and environmental barriers. Research has shown that social isolation, an objective lack of contact with others, can lead to loneliness, mental health issues, and low life satisfaction. Leisure travel, which involves interactions with others, may have the potential to reduce social isolation.

Objectives

To explore the association of travel participation with social isolation among people with SCI.

Methods

A total of 11,091 cases from 2016-2021 in the SCI Model Systems database were included in the study. Participants were categorized into low and high social isolation groups. A hierarchical logistic regression was performed with social isolation as the dependent variable and travel groups as the independent variable, while controlling for age, family income, and health conditions.

Results

Travel participation is negatively associated with social isolation. People with SCI who traveled for one to two nights (odd ratio [OR] 0.52, 95% CI 0.40-0.67), three to four nights (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.43-0.72), or more than five nights (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.35-0.49) in the past 12 months are less likely to be socially isolated compared to those who have not traveled in the past 12 months.

Conclusion

Travel participation may help reduce the social isolation of individuals with SCI. Therapists and rehabilitation professionals should design effective travel training programs that encourage patients with SCI to travel more often.
Residential Mobility and Reasons for Moving Among People Living With Spinal Cord Injury: Results of a Multisite Survey Study
Authors: Botticello Amanda L. , Murphy Lauren F. , Boninger Michael , Bryce Thomas N. , Charlifue Susan , Coker Jennifer , Roach Mary Joan , Scott Michael , Worobey Lynn
Published: December 2023

Background

Residential mobility after spinal cord injury (SCI) has not been extensively examined despite a growing interest in investigating the relationship between neighborhood exposures and community living outcomes.

Objectives

This study explores residential mobility patterns, the annual move rate, and reasons for moving among a community-living sample of adults with SCI.

Methods

A survey was conducted with 690 people at six SCI Model Systems centers in the United States between July 2017 and October 2020. The outcomes included move status in the past 12 months, move distance, and the primary reason for moving. A sample from the 2019 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year pooled estimates was obtained for comparative analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the distributions of the outcomes and differences between the samples.

Results

The annual move rate for adults with SCI was 16.4%, and most moves were within the same county (56.6%). Recent movers were more likely to be young adults, be newly injured, and have low socioeconomic status. Housing quality, accessibility, and family were more frequently reported motivations for moving compared to employment. Young adults more commonly moved for family and accessibility, whereas middle-aged adults more commonly moved for housing quality. No notable difference was observed in the annual move rate between the SCI and the general population samples.

Conclusion

These findings suggest an age-related pattern of residential relocation after SCI, which may be indicative an extended search for optimal living conditions that meet the housing and accessibility needs of this population.
INOCULATION AND APPLICATION OF DIFFERENT DOSES OF Azospirillum brasilense AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF CORN CULTURE
Authors:   Cooperativa Agroindustrial, Raspe Cristian Rafael , Raspe Djéssica Tatiane ,   State University of Maringá – UEM, Maringá, PR, Brazil.
Published: December 2023

Benefits in grain productivity, with low economic cost, ease of application, without causing toxic damage to the environment and with high potential for crop response, are target points in research involving the cultivation of corn. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of inoculation of Azospirillum brasilense on the vegetative structures of the corn crop, envisioning an increase in the development of the plant. The experimental design used was completely randomized, with six treatments and four replications, totaling 24 experiments. Seeds were inoculated with A. brasilense in different doses of the commercial product (0 - 1000 mL), where the plant height (AP), ear insertion height (AIE), stem diameter (DC), total number of leaves (NTF) and number of leaves below the first ear (NFAE), were evaluated. The inoculation of corn seeds based on A. brasilense strain Ab-V5 promoted influence on some biometric variables, with an increase in the total number of leaves (NTF), plant height (AP) and height of ear insertion (AIE) for the evaluated hybrid, resulting in increments in its vegetative development. The dosage of 549 mL per hectare was considered as favorable to result in greater amounts of total leaves (NTF) in the plant, according to the adjustment of the proposed model. The results emphasized that inoculation with this strain is a valid technique and is increasingly used by farmers, and its study is a contributing factor for improvements in agronomic parameters.
Job Reallocation Patterns of Korean Firms before and after the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors:   The Korean-Japanese Economics & Management Association, Hyun Jung-Hwan
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This paper aims to explore how job reallocation changes in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. More specifically, the paper calculates 5 job flows (job creation, destruction, reallocation, net employment growth and excess reallocation) and how they increase or decrease after the Covid-19 outbreak and examine whether the within-group reallocation is reinforced after the pandemic. Furthermore, the research estimates the key factors (variables) that bring a change in 5 job flows and what affects the most important job flow, namely excess job reallocation.
Research design, data, and methodology: The research collects data necessary for empirical analysis from KISVALUE, the firm-level data source provided by NICE, a credit rating agency in Korea. And the paper adopts a standard methodology to generate 5 job flows, which was developed by Davis and Haltiwanger(1992). Also, i t also employs to Differences-in-Differences method to address what brings a change in 5 job flows after the outbreak of the pandemic.
Results: The paper finds out evidence that there were a slight increase in job reallocation shortly after the pandemic unfolded and however job reallocation was alleviated in 2021 and 2022., which is inconsistent with previous studyies on financial crises (including 1997 financial crisis in Korea). Job reallocation between heterogeneous groups were intensified in the post-pandemic period. Furthermore, key performance indexes such as wage-to-sales ratio, leverage, average borrowing rate, ratio of financial expenditures to sales (or total costs) and net profit explain a increase or an decrease in 5 job flows. Notably, excess reallocation depends on leverage and financial expenditures, meaning that a change in the two variables have heterogeneous effects across industrial sectors.
Implications: All in all, the main results indicate 3 important implications on job reallocation in the post Covid-19 period. First, Covid-19 is an economic shock that has a temporary effect on the magnitude of job reallocation. Second, although mild, it is a reallocative shock that brings reallocation of jobs across sectors or other groups of firms with different properties. Third, financial reasons such as leverage and financial expenditures are sources that results in job reallocation between 2-digit industrial sectors.
The Implications of the Transition Process and Characteristics of Dementia Policy in Japan
Authors:   The Korean-Japanese Economics & Management Association, Son Seong-Dong , Ryu Keon-Sik , Ryu Sung-Kyung
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study aims to draw implications for the advancement of Korea’s dementia policy by systematically examining Japan’s dementia policy, which has the highest level of aging in the world.
Research design, data, and methodology: This study uses a qualitative research method to derive the characteristics and implications of Japanese dementia policies based on domestic prior studies related to Japan’s dementia policy and literature studies related to Japan’s major dementia policies.
Results: As a result of the analysis, it was found that Japan’s dementia policy has the following four characteristics. First, in terms of policy design, a flexible step-up method is applied. Second, in terms of the subject of the policy, it is shifting from policies centered on specific ministries to national strategies at the government level. Third, in terms of policy operation, basic local governments are responding rather than the central government. Fourth, in terms of policy management, goals are specified and detailed KPIs are set.
Implications: Japan’s dementia policy, which has developed six comprehensive policies over 30 years, has three implications for Korea’s dementia policy. First, there is a need to strengthen national dementia management governance. Second, there is a need to strengthen consumer-centered integrated dementia management services. Third, it is necessary to promote detailed tasks within the comprehensive dementia management plan in a balanced manner.
An Analysis of the Effects that South Africa’s Informal Settlements have had on the Country’s River Systems
Authors: Gqomfa B. , Maphanga T. , Madonsela B. S.
Published: December 2023

The quality of surface water has a significant impact on human health and the entire ecological system. Sewer spillages from the surrounding informal settlements discharging into the river, carrying high concentrations of fecal coliforms, are one of the major causes of extreme pollution in the rivers of South Africa. These informal settlements are common in many developing countries, and they are usually located near waterways to compensate for basic demands for water, sanitation, and recreational space, where municipal infrastructure lags behind urban growth. One major problem has been poor sanitation and poor waste disposal practices in the informal settlements, which has led to the contamination of water resources. This study aims to assess the extent to which poor sanitation in informal settlements impacts the water quality of South African rivers, given the rapid rise in population and unemployment rate. The study also highlights health and environmental issues in the local regions caused by poor sanitation. Contamination of water bodies is associated with serious health problems and fatalities. Therefore, there is a need for frequent monitoring and management of waste products discharged into the neighboring aquatic environments.
Palladium-Based Catalytic Treatment and a Rhizobacterial-Assisted Detoxification for the Enhanced Removal of Lindane
Authors: Sharma Rachana , Thangadurai Prabhu
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a bimetallic system consisting of Mg0-Pd0 and the bacterium Acinetobacter sp. for the complete detoxification of lindane. Our results demonstrate that palladium immobilized on activated charcoal achieved a removal rate of >99% for 100 mg.L-1 of Lindane within 10 minutes, with the accumulation of trace amounts of intermediates. The reductive transformation of lindane followed 1st-order kinetics, with a calculated rate constant (kobs) of 0.77 min-1. The bimetallic system resulted in the formation of a non-toxic hydrocarbon as the end-product, indicating complete dehalogenation of lindane. Furthermore, Acinetobacter sp. effectively mineralized >98% of 100 mg.L-1 of Lindane after 26 h of cultivation without any accumulation of toxic metabolite(s) in the reaction medium, demonstrating the efficiency of the biological system. Integrating both chemical and biological systems could provide significant advantages for the treatment of lindane, reducing the treatment time and overall cost. This synergistic approach can significantly enhance the overall removal efficiency of lindane from contaminated soil and water.
Studies on the Contamination of Heavy Metals and Their Chemical Speciation in Sediment from Selected Locations of Pune District
Authors: Hassanpourfard Parveen , Mane Ashish Vilas , Banerjee Kaushik
Published: December 2023

The heavy metal speciation analysis in sediments helps us understand and evaluate essential and unavoidable issues in terms of both health and environmental hazards imposed by these metals in our lives. Analyzing the total content of heavy metals enables us to understand only the quantity of the contaminants. To understand the different species or the chemical forms of heavy metals available in the sediments, we must study their speciation. Speciation studies help us determine their possible sources as well as their environmental stability in terms of availability to plants and other organisms. The heavy metals in this study were specified using four-stage sequential extraction, also known as the BCR technique. This study mainly highlights the quantification of metal contamination of Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cd & Cr, and chemical forms as species in sediment samples collected from different Pune District, Maharashtra sites. Heavy metal contamination from the collected samples was analyzed with the use of flame atomic absorption spectrometry. This study indicated that Zn and Ni are among the most abundant metals in the sediment samples; however, Cu and Cd belong to the least abundant category. The oxidizable and residual forms (immobile and cannot be used by the organisms readily) appeared dominant for most heavy metals. Very significant differences were observed in the speciation of heavy metals from sample to sample, which was probably due to differences in water/soil composition and the agrochemicals like pesticides, weedicides, and fertilizers used in agricultural practices; the wastewater generated from different pharmaceuticals, chemical processing and manufacturing industries as well as the improper wastewater treatment methods.
Biodiesel from Dunaliella salina Microalgae Using Base Catalyzed Transesterification – An Assessment through GC/MS, FTIR and NMR Studies
Authors: Hariram V. , Janarthanan M. , Paul R. Christu , Sivasankar A. , Akram M. Wasim , Sangeethkumar E. , Ramanathan V. , Khan P. Sajid , Reddy S. Manikanta
Published: December 2023

Algal biofuels are a promising renewable feedstock to produce energy that can supplement future energy demands greatly. The present study aims to utilize Dunaliella salina, a hypersaline, unicellular greenish-orange micro-algae, to produce bio-oil. F/2 nutrient media and trace metal and vitamin solution under carbon-dioxide-rich conditions were used to cultivate the microalgae. Ultrasonic extraction method at 60 Hz for 90 min isolated 650 mL of bio-oil. A single-stage based-catalyzed transesterification process with methanol and sodium hydroxide yielded 380 mL of Pure Dunaliella salina biodiesel at % an extraction efficiency of 87%. The Phytochemical screening on the cultivated Dunaliella sp. was performed to understand its feasibility to be used as a fuel for IC engines. Furthermore, the obtained biodiesel was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer (GCMS), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectral analysis.
Assessment and Characterization of Leather Solid Waste from Sheba Leather Industry PLC, Wukro, Ethiopia
Authors: Tegadye Desnet Gebrekidan , Ram Chhotu , Alebel Kibrom
Published: December 2023

Leather manufacturing processes raw hides and skins into various finished leather products, generating huge amounts of untanned and untanned leather solid wastes (LSWs). The present study investigates the LSWs generation, characterization, and management practices of the Sheba leather industry in Ethiopia. Results revealed that LSWs are categorized as non-chrome solid waste, including de-dusted salt, raw trimming, hairs, fleshing waste, pickle trimming, and splitting wastes. Chrome-based wastes include chrome shaving waste, crust leather trimming waste, buffing dust waste, finished leather trimming waste, etc. Further, solid wastes were characterized for the physico-chemical parameters viz. moisture (31.5%), ash content (7.3%), pH (5.7), carbon content (14.7%), nitrogen content (0.3%), chromium content (2%), calorific value (20,107 kJ.kg-1), VOCs (75.1%) and carbon to nitrogen ratio (52:1). Results obtained suggested various sustainable technological options for the effective LSWs management to preserve environment.
Heavy Metal Remediation from Water/Wastewater Using Bioadsorbents - A Review
Authors: Tewari Akhil , Bhutada Dinesh S. , Wadgaonkar Vinayak
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to emphasize heavy metals’ impact on water and its removal mechanism with a focus on adsorption. Furthermore, factors affecting bio adsorption, such as temperature, pH, RPM, and initial heavy metal concentration, have been studied for different heavy metals and bioadsorbents. A comparison of their adsorption capacities and efficiencies has been made. This review reviewed different bioadsorbents for their suitability in removing cadmium, lead, and copper ions from water and wastewater, typically by using adsorption as a methodology. A suitable summary compares various heavy metal removal techniques and their advantages and limitations. For adsorption, the characteristics of bioadsorbents and their activation steps have been consolidated. Furthermore, the effects of operational parameters and adsorption mechanisms have been discussed in the review. Apart from assessing the suitability of bioadsorbent, a novel bioadsorbent has been suggested for copper ions removal. The findings shall be significantly useful in applying bioadsorbent in water/wastewater treatment fields to reduce heavy metal pollution. Thorough and well-planned research in this field can facilitate the creation of sustainable and durable technology for wastewater treatment, addressing the increasing demand for safe and dependable water resources, focusing on making it cost-effective and recyclable.
Defluoridation of Water by Biowaste Material – A Study of Adsorption Kinetics and Isotherms
Authors: Kumar K. Kiran , Nadh Ratnakaram Venkata , Rao Kaza Somasekhara , Krishnaveni G.
Published: December 2023

Human beings experience adversative effects due to the large fluoride concentrations present in potable water. Because of the low cost and simple operation, the extensively acknowledged process is adsorption. The objective of this study is to investigate the performance of some of the prepared carbons from bio-waste materials viz., Citrus limon, Citrus nobilis, Pithecellobium dulce, and Bombax malabaricum sheaths in defluoridation. Initial concentration, particle size, agitation time, adsorbent dose, and pH were the different parameters chosen to study their effect on adsorption. Studied the adsorption kinetics. Further suitability to adsorption isotherms was reviewed.
Assessment of the Vulnerability of Groundwater to Biological Contamination in the Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Abbas H. B. , Elmanssury A. E. , Dafaalla S. A. , Pasha S. Arif
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine how vulnerable groundwater in Khartoum is to contamination. For this purpose, the DRASTIC Index idea was used. A descriptive cross-sectional analytical analysis is designed in this study. A total of 279 boreholes were sampled from a total of 1015 boreholes (27.5 percent). The following criteria were utilized to define the DRASTIC Index: depth, net recharge, aquifer media, soil texture, terrain, video media, and soil conductivity. Standard bacteriological test methodologies were used for groundwater. The biological data from the 279 boreholes revealed that total coliform, thermo-tolerant coliform, and E. coli were found in 34.4 percent, 18.6 percent, and 0.36 percent of the boreholes, respectively. Bacteriological contamination is common in Sharge Elnile, although only a few cases have been reported in Khartoum. According to the study, the bulk of boreholes in Khartoum State were built without any criteria. Many sources of contamination were discovered within a radius of less than 120 meters, which was deemed to violate Khartoum State’s Environmental Health Law of 2002. For this reason, bacteriological contamination is common in Sharge Elnile, although only a few cases have been reported in Khartoum.
Household Energy Fuel Choice in Nigeria Residential Urban Area
Authors: Ubani O. J. , Okosun A. , Chukwurah G. , Henry Ivo
Published: December 2023

In most Nigerian cities, there have been an increased number of trading in charcoals, firewood, and sawdust. Yet, the fast citing of cooking gas refilling stations in these areas requires much to be studied since their increasing number suggests great demand for cooking gas. The knowledge of the different household fuel choices and the drivers of this choice was lacking in Nigerian cities, thus the inability of energy policymakers to predict and plan household fuel agenda in Nigeria. The thrust of this paper was to analyze the household energy fuel choice and the pattern of consumption as well as analyze the household socioeconomic factors that influenced the fuel choice in the Abakaliki urban area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Stratified and simple random sampling was adopted in the study. Regression was used to consider the relationship between energy fuel choice and household socioeconomic factors. It was revealed that there was a mixture of traditional and modern energy fuel choices in the study area, with the modern energy fuel choices (gas and electricity) having higher patronage. There was a significant relationship between energy fuel choice and household socioeconomic factors. It was recommended, among others, that a clear energy fuel policy that will adopt the identified explorable household socioeconomic factors that influence the choice of energy fuel be developed.