bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uma revisão de literatura sobre indicadores de desempenho em instituições de ensino superior
Authors: Silveira Nauana Gaivota , Bornia Antonio Cezar
Published: February 2024

A educação é uma área de relevância e grande impacto social, sendo essencial para o desenvolvimento de qualquer sociedade. Assim, a mensuração de sua qualidade é um aspecto que vem recebendo atenção. Neste contexto, o objetivo desta pesquisa é analisar os modelos de avaliação de desempenho organizacional desenvolvidos para instituições de ensino superior por meio de revisão de literatura. As bases de dados consultadas foram Web of Science, Scopus e Scielo, com os termos "Performance Indicators" e "Higher Education". Utilizando o processo estruturado de revisão bibliográfica, obteve-se um portfólio de 21 publicações a partir de uma base bruta de 1262 artigos. As análises demonstram que há espaço para contribuições na área, pois, apesar de um quantitativo razoável de publicações, ainda há muita diversidade entre as propostas sem que haja modelos consolidados e de aplicação prática para estas instituições. Os resultados reforçam a complexidade na elaboração de indicadores nesta área e a necessidade de avanços. Entretanto, já existem iniciativas nesta linha, trazendo uma perspectiva positiva. Quanto às oportunidades de pesquisa, sugerem-se pesquisas para validação ou não dos indicadores encontrados nas pesquisas já realizadas, assim como análises de colineraridade entre os indicadores utilizados, para evitar distorções nos resultados ou esforços desnecessários para mensurações que resultem em duplicidades. Outra lacuna identificada é a baixa incidência de indicadores para atividades-meio. Desta forma, uma oportunidade de pesquisa é identificar indicadores de desempenho para as atividades não cobertas pelos indicadores utilizados.
Avaliação de ciclo de vida com foco nas etapas de execução e uso em estruturas geotécnicas reforçadas com geotêxtil tecido
Authors: De Araújo Júnior Luiz Paulo Vieira , Bueno Cristiane
Published: February 2024

A Avaliação do Ciclo de Vida (ACV) é uma das metodologias mais utilizadas para análise dos potenciais impactos ambientais do setor da Engenharia Civil. Apesar do número de pesquisas de ACV em engenharia civil ter crescido nos últimos anos, nota-se que, na área de geossintéticos existem lacunas a serem preenchidas. Assim, esta pesquisa objetivou analisar, com o auxílio da metodologia de ACV, estruturas de solos reforçados com geossintéticos e compará-las com uma estrutura tradicional construída em concreto armado, a fim de quantificar e qualificar os potenciais impactos ambientais. A metodologia compreendeu em uma breve revisão sobre ACV e estruturas de solos reforçados com geossitéticos; aplicação das fases de ACV. A pesquisa propôs a realização de um estudo de ACV para o processos de execução e uso e manutenção através do método ReCiPe. Foram consideradas relevantes as categorias de impacto de Eutrofização de água doce, Mudanças climáticas, Destruição do ozônio e Acidificação. Os resultados mostraram que, na maioria das categorias analisadas, a estrutura de solos reforçados revelou menor constribuição se comparada com uma estrutura em concreto; e as categorias de impacto que tiveram maiores emissões foram as categorias de acidificação terrestre seguida pela categoria de mudanças climáticas. Portanto, concluiu-se que a metodologia de ACV é um instrumento eficaz para avaliar qualitativa e quantitativamente os potenciais impactos de estruturas de solos reforçados com geossintéticos quando comparadas com uma estrutura tradicional.
Práticas de green marketing em resorts do litoral do Estado de Santa Catarina
Authors: Ocke Marco Antonio Moraes , Teixeira Francielly Santos
Published: February 2024

Este artigo discorre sobre práticas de green marketing no âmbito do turismo e hospitalidade e tem como objetivo discutir a presença, a efetivação e os resultados advindos dessas práticas em três resorts do litoral do Estado de Santa Catarina. Para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa qualitativa exploratória-descritiva, foi adotado o método de estudo de casos múltiplos contando com cinco entrevistas em profundidade apoiadas por documentação como instrumentos de coleta de dados. Para análise dos casos, a técnica de proposições teóricas e análises cruzadas (Yin, 2015) embasou a discussão dos resultados. O cenário observado permitiu identificar a ocorrência de vantagem competitiva para as organizações investigadas por meio de práticas de green marketing e proposições de valor verde presentes em seus posicionamentos, indicando alinhamento entre sua aplicação e o comportamento do consumidor no turismo. Apesar disso, observou-se que a marca verde e a utilização de selos e certificações na comunicação de marketing não podem ser considerados ativos estratégicos capazes de influenciar decisões de consumo. Assim, o presente artigo propõe estimular pesquisadores e instigar gestores sobre a presença do green marketing em decisões mercadológicas de meios de hospedagem.
Clinico-pathological Spectrum of Rare Skin Syndromes and Diseases: A Series of Five Cases
Authors: Marulasiddappa Anusha K , Choukimath Sharanabasav M , Bhavikatti Bharati M , Vernekar Sunita , Reddy Purushottam
Published: February 2024

A significant threat to patients’ well-being, mental health, capacity to function, and social participation- a measure of disability- is posed by skin diseases, resulting in significant mortality and morbidity worldwide. Despite the fact that the majority of rare diseases are complex, disabling, and life-threatening, little knowledge has been gained in this area. The diagnosis and classification of these rare skin syndromes with pre-determined sets of symptoms present a challenge. To diagnose a rare skin syndrome, one frequently has to correlate histologic findings with clinical symptoms, as there is a vast range of skin disorders, many of whose histologic traits overlap with just slight variances. However, histologic knowledge alone makes it difficult to diagnose these; proper diagnosis demands appropriate clinical knowledge. In the present study institute, 675 skin biopsies were performed over the course of five years, from 2018 to 2022. Based on clinico-pathological analysis, various rare skin syndromes were diagnosed, as depicted in present case series of five cases (10 years old boy, 40 years old male, 27 years old male, 44 years old male, 52 years old male patients) for: a) Griscelli Syndrome; b) Gougerot-Carteaud Syndrome, considered rare as it is one of the underdiagnosed and misdiagnosed syndromes due to its similarity with Pityriasis versicolour; c) Kyrle’s disease, a rare perforating dermatosis occurring in 10% of chronic renal failure patients who are on dialysis; d) Nekam’s disease; e) Sweet syndrome, an uncommon syndrome occurring in about 10-20% of malignancies.
Microbial Profile and Antibiotic Sensitivity Pattern in Urinary Tract Infections among Children Attending a Tertiary Care Center, Idukki District, Kerala: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Biju Mariya , Philip Angel Cham , Nair Gulsiv
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Over the recent decades, the importance of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) has been increasingly recognised in children. The occurrence of UTI during childhood may lead to acute and/or chronic consequences, such as impaired renal function, renal scarring, and hypertension. Due to the irrational use of antimicrobials, multidrug resistant bacterial strains are frequent. Hence, there is an urgent need for continuous surveillance of the microbiological profile of UTI. Aim: To investigate the microbial profile and antibiotic sensitivity pattern from the urine of paediatric patients suspected to have UTI in Idukki district, Kerala and to explore its association with seasonal variations. Materials and Methods: This clinical cross-sectional study was conducted in Al Azhar Medical College and Super Specialty Hospital, Thodupuzha, Idukki, Kerala, India, from January 2019 to December 2021. The study involved 882 paediatric patients in the age group 0-15 years with symptoms and signs suggestive of UTI. Data regarding age, gender, season, laboratory and culture results, and antibiotic sensitivity pattern were considered as variables of interest. Analysis was performed using mean and standard deviation for quantitative variables, and frequency and proportion for categorical variables. The statistical analyses were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 and Microsoft Excel 2010. Results: The study involved 882 patients, of which 399 were males (45.2%) and 483 were females (54.8%) with a male-tofemale ratio of 0.8:1. The mean age of patients was four years, and a peak incidence was observed in children in the age group of 1-3 years, with 333 (37.8%) children. Microbial growth was observed in the urine of 325 (36.8%) patients. After excluding normal commensal perineal flora and insignificant bacteriuria, 233 samples had significant growth, with males accounting for 106 (45.5%) and females 127 (54.5%). The male-to-female ratio was 0.8 to 1. These samples mostly exhibited growth of aerobic bacteria (232, 99.6%) and Candida albicans (1, 0.4%). E. coli (106, 45.5%) was identified as the most predominant aetiological agent for paediatric UTI. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that it would be advisable for paediatricians in Idukki district to refrain from using Ampicillin to treat cases suspected to have UTI. Preventive measures should be advised to all patients, with emphasis on urinary hygiene during the monsoon and winter seasons.
Fear and Anxiety among Dental Students and Dentistry as a Career Choice Following the COVID-19 Pandemic in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: AlJameel AlBandary Hassan , Aldaghri Ebtihal Nasser , AlSuhaibani Daniyah Saleh , Tuwaym Malath Abdulaziz , Khurshid Zohaib , Shah Altaf H
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a significant psychological impact on people's lives, including healthcare providers. This impact has manifested in the form of anxiety and fear. Since COVID-19 is a respiratory disease spread through the mouth and nose, dental practitioners have experienced anxiety due to their close proximity to the oro-nasal tissues. Aim: To assess the mental health condition, specifically fear and anxiety, of a group of dental students in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic and to explore students' perceptions about dentistry as a career choice following the pandemic. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnairebased study was conducted, which included demographic data, the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), the Fear of COVID19 Scale (FCV-19S), as well as a few questions to assess why students chose dentistry as a career and their perceptions about dentistry as a career following the pandemic. A digital link to the questionnaires was distributed through social media outlets such as Twitter, WhatsApp, etc., with the aim of reaching dental students across all dental schools in Saudi Arabia. Dental students and those undergoing internships from both public and private Dental Colleges across Saudi Arabia were approached. The study included a total of 633 students from 21 dental schools across Saudi Arabia. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, including Analysis of Variance(ANOVA), independent t-tests, and Chi-square tests. Results: Fear and anxiety levels were found to be the highest among interns and fourth-year dental students, respectively. A total of 346 (54.66%) of the respondents reported that they chose dentistry as a career due to personal desire. Approximately, 239 (37.8%) of the respondents reported being either 'Not Sure' or would not choose dentistry as a career if they had the choice, considering the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Fear and anxiety were reported to be higher among dental students exposed to clinical practice. The majority of dental students reported that they would still choose dentistry as a career option despite the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Assessment of Pulmonary Function in COVID-19 Recovered Health Science Students: A Descriptiv Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Patil Sudha , Teli Anita , Nayaka Rekha , Patil Parwati
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) impacts multiple organs like the kidneys, heart, and liver, but primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as cough with sputum production, fever, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. Research on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)-Coronavirus-2 (CoV-2) has revealed impairments in lung function during the early recovery phase following COVID-19 infection. The aim is to understand the virus’s impact and identify any obstructive, restrictive, or mixed pulmonary alterations in medical professionals six weeks after recovery. Aim: To assess Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) six weeks after COVID-19 recovery in health science students at a medical college in North Karnataka. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in North Karnataka, India, from January 2021 to December 2021. A total of 155 COVID-19-recovered health science students were included, and their anthropometry, physiological parameters, and pulmonary parameters were recorded. The “Spirometer Helios 401” was used to estimate an individual’s PFT. Data were analysed using independent sample t-tests, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the participants was 21.73±3.04 years. The Mean±Standard Devaiation (SD) of Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) (L), Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV) at the end of one second (L), Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (L), forced mid expiratory flow 25-75 (L/s), forced mid expiratory flow 25% (L/s), forced mid expiratory flow 50% (L/s), forced mid expiratory flow 75% (L/s), Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV) (L), Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV) (L), Inspiratory Capacity (IC) (L), and Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV) (L) ± SD of post-COVID-19 subjects were less compared to their corresponding predicted values. The Mean±SD of FEV1/FVC (%) and tidal volume (L) of COVID-19 recovered subjects were higher than their corresponding expected value. The FEV, Forced Expiratory Flow (FEF), and FEV1 values were significantly less in females compared to males. Conclusion: Coronavirus Disease-19-recovered subjects showed altered respiratory functions even after six weeks, with the majority having restrictive disease, followed by a mixed pattern and obstructive diseases, while the remaining showed no changes in lung function. Altered pulmonary functions in COVID-19 patients may be due to alveolar destruction or pulmonary interstitial fibrosis.
Spinal Tuberculosis in Pregnancy: A Case Series
Authors: Chnadrasekaran Swaramya , Krishnamurthy Karthick Anand , Kalimuthu Balaji
Published: February 2024

Spinal Tuberculosis (Pott’s Spine) infection during pregnancy poses significant challenges in early diagnosis, as it often resembles typical back pain experienced during pregnancy. Delayed diagnosis has resulted in maternal and foetal complications, including paraplegia, premature labor, preterm delivery, and foetal growth restriction. Treatment approaches are tailored to individual clinical presentations and may involve conservative or surgical intervention. Surgical decompression should be considered when there is a neurological deficit that could complicate the delivery process. The standard Antituberculous Therapy (ATT) regimen for 12 months is an accepted treatment protocol according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines during the antenatal period. The present case series comprises four middle-aged pregnant women (two aged 19 years, one aged 21 years, and one aged 35 years, all primigravida) diagnosed with Pott’s spine at various trimesters, exhibiting a range of clinical presentations from mild back pain to acute neurological deficits. One patient in the late trimester with a neurological deficit required surgical decompression, while the remaining patients were successfully managed with appropriate ATT
Impact of COVID-19 on the Risk of Development of Oligohydramnios in Pregnancy: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Ulu Ipek , Jafarzade Aytaj , Mungan Muhittin Tamer , Biri Aydan
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease-2019 pandemic is considered the most catastrophic disease of the last decades, with evolving knowledge and improved management over time. Pregnant women are known to be particularly vulnerable, and COVID-19 has been shown to damage the endothelium due to its proinflammatory nature. Aim: To determine the occurrence of oligohydramnios in pregnant women who tested positive for COVID-19. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Koru Health Groups, Ankara, Çankaya, Turkey from January 2023 to June 2023. The study included a total of 459 women who were followed during pregnancy and delivered in the same hospital between April 2020 and October 2022. The patients were divided into two groups: COVID-19 positive group (n=101) and negative group (n=358). Various parameters such as age, parity, gestational week at birth, Body Mass Index (BMI), 1st and 5th-minute Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity and Respiration (APGAR) scores, weight of the newborn, Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI), and the risk of developing oligohydramnios were assessed between the positive and negative groups. Parametric variables were analysed using independent t-tests and non parametric ones using Mann-Whitney U tests. Chisquare test was used to compare categorical variables. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the pregnant women was 29.2±4.4 years, ranging from 20 to 43 years. Oligohydramnios was detected in 95 women, with 64 of them testing positive for COVID-19. There were no statistically significant differences in terms of age, parity, gestational week of birth, weight at birth, and 1st and 5thminute APGAR scores between the two groups. However, BMI was significantly higher in COVID-19 positive patients compared to negative ones (p=0.003). Oligohydramnios was found to be significantly higher in COVID-19-positive pregnant women (n=64) compared to negative ones (n=31) (p<0.0001). Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented level of global health problems. The virus’s prothrombotic tendency leads to placental insufficiency, predisposing to oligohydramnios and intrauterine growth retardation.
Clinical Manifestations and Treatment Outcomes of Brucella Endocarditis: A Retrospective Cohort Study at a Tertiary Cardiac Centre in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Authors: Naveena Jagadeesan , Nishanth KR , Kumari Nanjunda Swamy Prapulla , Nandhini Puttaswamy , Kavitha Karur , Manjunath CN
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Brucella is a rare cause of Infective Endocarditis (IE), requiring prompt early recognition and treatment to prevent life-threatening complications. Diagnosis is often missed or delayed, leading to an increase in cardiac morbidity and mortality. Aim: To analyse the clinical profile, laboratory parameters, cardiac manifestations, management patterns, and outcomes of Brucella endocarditis. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Department of Cardiology, Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bangaluru, Karnataka, India on patients with blood culture-confirmed Brucella endocarditis, diagnosed using modified Duke’s criteria between January 2010 and December 2021. The present study evaluated the clinical presentation, treatment modalities, and outcomes. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed. Results: A total of 34 cases were identified during the study period. The mean age of the patients was 35.6±14 years (age range: 15-66 years), with 82.4% males and 17.6% females. Underlying valvular heart disease was present in 82.4% of the patients, while 17.6% had no pre-existing valvular heart disease. Both aortic and mitral valves were involved with equal frequency. All patients presented with fever. Most patients had a normal leukocyte count (61.8%). Thrombocytopenia (32.3%) and pancytopenia (17.6%) were also observed. Large vegetations (>1 cm) were seen in 38.2% of patients, and complications related to IE were observed in 35.2%. The majority of patients (82.4%) were managed medically alone in the acute phase. The antibiotic regimen of doxycycline with rifampicin combined with intravenous gentamicin was used in the majority of the patients. The observed mortality rate was 17.6%. Conclusion: Brucella endocarditis can present with thrombocytopenia/pancytopenia along with normal or reduced leukocyte count. The addition of intravenous gentamicin to oral therapy may reduce relapse rates.
Intraoperative Frozen Section Analysis and an Audit of its Diagnostic Accuracy: A Cross-sectional Study from Maharashtra, India
Authors: Ingole Priyanka Gokul , Agrawal Nandini , Khaparde Sadhana Harshvardhan , Gadekar Ninad Jayant
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Frozen Section (FS) is a diagnostic technique performed intraoperatively to obtain relevant information about the primary diagnosis, margin status, or sentinel lymph nodes, which helps guide the course of surgery. With the prevalent use of FS, it is imperative to recognise and scrutinise its diagnostic pitfalls and make efforts for rectification. Aim: To compare diagnostic results obtained on FS with final paraffin-embedded histopathology and calculate the Diagnostic Accuracy (DA) of FS. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pathology at a tertiary care hospital, DVVPFs Medical College in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India over a period of two years from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021. The diagnosis provided on specimens received for intraoperative FS was compared with the final histopathological diagnosis, considered as the gold standard for the same specimen. The results were categorised as concordant, discordant, and deferred cases. The diagnosis on FS and the final histopathological diagnosis, along with relevant clinical data, were entered into an excel sheet. Further, the DA of FS was calculated. All the discordant cases were analysed. Statistical analysis utilised simple percentage calculations from the excel sheet. Results: A total of 130 cases were analysed using FS, with the most common indication being sentinel lymph node analysis to detect metastatic deposits in 72 (55.4%) cases. Out of the total 130 cases, 119 (91.5%) were concordant, 10 (7.7%) were discordant, and 1 (0.8%) was deferred due to an insufficient specimen. Therefore, the overall DA rate was found to be 91.5% with an error rate of 8.5%. Upon analysis of the 10 discordant cases, the cause of inaccuracy was technical error in 7 (70%) cases and interpretation error in 3 (30%) cases. Conclusion: The DA obtained in the present study was somewhat lower than expected due to technical errors during FS sectioning, leading to artifacts, especially during lymph node processing. Analysis of the discordant cases unveiled this deficit. Therefore, such assessment studies should be performed periodically as they assist in highlighting the shortfalls and provide a plan to boost DA.
CT Imaging Findings of Extra-adrenal Abdominal Paragangliomas: A Case Series
Authors: Sarmast SSM Zainul Abidin
Published: February 2024

Extra-adrenal paragangliomas are rare neuroendocrine tumours originating from paraganglia outside the adrenal glands. The present case series illustrates the Computed Tomography (CT) imaging features of three instances of extra-adrenal abdominal paragangliomas. The discussed cases include Retroperitoneal paraganglioma with Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) infiltration and associated hepatic, pancreatic, and skeletal metastasis; Inter-aortocaval paraganglioma; and Organ of Zuckerkandl Paraganglioma. The CT imaging features of the lesions and their relation with the adjacent vascular structures are described. The differential diagnosis and histopathological correlations are discussed. These cases underscore the importance of considering paragangliomas in the differential diagnosis of soft-tissue masses in the abdomen and highlight the role of Contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) imaging in their evaluation. Understanding the diverse imaging characteristics of extra-adrenal paragangliomas aids in accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Further studies are needed to expand the authors knowledge of these rare tumours and optimise their imaging evaluation.
Giant Congenital Melanocytic Naevi in Newborns: A Case Series
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sayeri , Biswas Prativa , Karar Neha , Halder Dipanjan , Bandyopadhyay Anjali
Published: February 2024

Giant Congenital Melanocytic Naevi (GCMN) is a very rare condition that mostly occurs due to an oncogenic mutation involving the NRAS (neuroblastoma RAS viral oncogene homologue) gene. GCMNs can be clinically diagnosed due to their typical features, but histopathology confirms the diagnosis. GCMN has a high propensity for transforming into malignant melanoma and leptomeningeal melanocytosis, leading to neurological deficits such as epilepsy and neurofibromatosis. As it is associated with Central Nervous System (CNS) melanosis, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain and spine is crucial. Here, three cases are reported of the babies born with GCMN from August 2022 to July 2023 in a tertiary care hospital among a total of 11,915 live births, where the incidence is much higher than found in the literature. Present series describes three cases with GCMN, including clinical features, MRI findings, short-term outcomes, risk factors, and modalities of the management. All three cases showed extensive blackish pigmented patches involving most of the body surface and MRI evidence of Neurocutaneous Melanosis (NCM). The third baby succumbed to death due to fulminant sepsis on day 2 of life. Management of GCMN requires a multimodal approach, including medical, surgical, chemotherapeutic, palliative, and psychological support for patients as well as parents, and follow-up is necessary for the early detection of malignant transformation. Detailed knowledge of this very rare condition may enable us to develop newer treatment modalities to achieve better outcomes in the near future.
Alcohol use, economic development and health burden: A conceptual framework
Authors: Rehm, Ph.D. Jürgen , Rovira Pol , Shield Kevin , Sornpaisarn Bundit , Thang Vo Van , Room Robin
Published: February 2024

Economic development has been identified as an important influencing contributor to life expectancies: wealthier countries have lower mortality rates and different causes of death.  Economic development also impacts alcohol consumption, as upper-middle and high-income countries, on average, have higher levels of consumption and less abstention.  This often leads to a paradoxical situation whereby for low- and middle income countries increases in alcohol consumption are associated with decreases in alcohol-attributable mortality rates.  These increases in consumption may diminish the benefits of economic development.  Alcohol control policies can reduce the health and social burdens of increased alcohol use that result from economic development.  Two case examples of Thailand and Vietnam which are presented.  From 2010 to 2019 Thailand experienced a 3.7% increase in APC, a 9.8% decrease in all-cause mortality per 100,000 people, and a 1.4% decrease in alcohol-attributable mortality per 100,000 people.  From 2010 to 2019 Vietnam experienced a 26.8% increase in APC, a 6.7% decrease in all-cause mortality per 100,000 people, and a 3.7% increase in alcohol-attributable mortality per 100,000 people. Due to a failure to implement strong alcohol control policies Vietnam has experienced an increase in alcohol-attributable mortality despite decreases in all-cause mortality. Accordingly, the implementation of alcohol control policies, can diminish the increases in alcohol use for low- and middle-income countries that accompany economic development.
Disaster Management Cycle
Authors: Bali Renu
Published: February 2024

Last decade has been a decade (2000-2019) of some of the major disaster occurrences. Majority of these disasters were climate based. Between 2000-2019 there were 7348 major recorded disaster events worldwide as compared to 4212 between 1980-1999 These disasters claimed 12mn lives and affected more than 4.03 billion people (2000 – 2019). Asia suffered the highest number of disaster events due to size of the continents, its physiography and high density of population. In terms of affected countries globally, India with 321 events was third highest in terms of economic losses and loss of lives [1]. Widespread occurrences of disasters and heavy destruction in terms of loss of life and property and damage to ecosystems has highlighted the issue of understanding and managing the disasters effectively whether they are natural or caused by human neglect and interventions. Disaster management and overall development of a region should go simultaneously, in fact, development should include disaster management processes.  Occurrence of disasters disrupt the process of development by causing damage to the developmental efforts which have taken long time to achieve. It often pushes the countries back by several decades. Thus, efficient management of disasters before their occurrence, rather than responding to them after the occurrence has, in recent times, received increased attention both within India and abroad.
Evaluation and Synthesis of Environmentally Benign Multifunctional Additives for Lube Oil
Authors: Nandi Manishita , Ghosh Pranab
Published: February 2024

Behenyl acrylate (BA) homo-polymer and its copolymers with citral were synthesized with varying percentage compositions (w/w) and subjected to thorough characterization through GPC (gel permeation chromatography) analysis and spectroscopic techniques (FT-IR, NMR). The polymers' capability was assessed through viscosity index improvers/viscosity modifiers (VII or VM), anti wear (AW) additives and pour point depressants (PPD) for base oils (lubricating oil). The action mechanism of the PPD properties was investigated through photomicrographic analysis. Additionally, the thermal stability of the polymers was measured using TGA or thermo gravimetric analysis. Biodegradability tests on copolymers were conducted using soil burial test (SBT) and the Disc Diffusion (DD) method. The copolymers exhibited exceptional PPD, VII, and AW performance when incorporated into lubricating oil.
Allelopathic Effects of Litchi chinensis on Mung bean and Soybean in Agroforestry System
Authors: Parvin Rozina , Bari Md Shafiqul , Rahman Md. Shoaibur , Sultana Rebeka , Muhammad Noor
Published: February 2024

Background: A pot experiment was conducted to demonstrate the allelopathic effect of the litchi tree (Litchi chinensis) on two crops such as mung bean (Vigna radiata) and soybean (Glycine max). The experiment was conducted at the Agroforestry Research field of Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur, Bangladesh. Five treatments were applied in this experiment, and they are: T1 (topsoil at the base of litchi trees), T2 (soil in the root zone of litchi trees), T3 (soil mulched with dry litchi leaves), T4 (soil irrigated with aqueous litchi leaf extract) and T5 (control, i.e., fresh garden soil). A factorial randomized complete block (RCBD) design with four replicates was used in this experiment. There were 40 pots in total.

Results: The results of the study showed that all treatments in the experiment inhibited the germination and growth of both mung beans and soybeans compared to controls. The germination inhibition and growth parameters of mung bean and soybean varied according to soil collected from different plant parts and root zone locations of different trees. The allelopathic effect of litchi trees was in the following order: T3 (soil mulched with dry leaves) > T4 (soil irrigated with aqueous leaf extract) > T1 (topsoil at the base of the tree) > T2 (tree root zoon soil) > T5 (control).

Conclusions: Litchi leaves have a stronger allelopathic effect than litchi ground or root zone soil. Again, dried leaves have stronger allelopathic effects than green (fresh) leaves. Therefore, regular washing of dried leaves is very important for litchi-based agroforestry systems. On the other hand, between the two crops, soybeans were more suppressed than mung beans.
Effects of Tillage, Mulching and Site-Specific Nutrient Management on Soil Temperature, Flowering, Bulk Density and Soil Organic Carbon in Wheat
Authors: Krishnababu M. E.  , Singh Rajiv Kumar , Upadhyay Pravin Kumar , Manjunatha M. A.  , Harendra Chappali
Published: February 2024

The effects of tillage, mulching and site-specific nutrient management on soil temperature, flowering, bulk density, and soil organic carbon in wheat” studied during rabi,2021-22, at the research farm of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. The experiment with 24 treatment combinations was laid out in a split-plot design and replicated thrice. The main plot treatments included six different crop establishment methods (conventional tillage without residue, conventional tillage with residue incorporation, zero tillage without residue, zero tillage with residue, permanent raised bed without residue and permanent raised bed with residue retention and sub plot treatments consist of four nutrient management options (STBR, STBR+GS, NE and NE+GS based recommendation). PRB with residue retention has 1-2ºC soil temperature higher up to 70-75 DAS and started to decline after 75 DAS till harvest. Mulching protects the crop from winter and summer stress. Maximum soil organic carbon (SOC) values (0.39%) were noted under ZT+R, which was Higher compared to CT-R after harvest the crop. Soil bulk density (BD) under ZT+R (1.28 g/cm3) was lower as compared to rest of the treatments. Number of days required to 50% flowering was (83.6 DAS) and to 75% flowering was (88.2 DAS) in PRB+R which was on par with other treatments. it was concluded that the combination of maize straw mulch, zero tillage and permanent raised beds were proved fruitful in improving soil thermal properties and soil carbon sequestration.
Coriander Yield Characteristics as Influenced by Varied Date of Sowing and Planting Geometry under Chhattisgarh Plain Zone
Authors: Painkara Sandeep Kumar , Chandrakar D. K. , Paraye P. M. , Verma A. K. , Langangmeilu Golmei , Patel Anjali
Published: February 2024

A field experiment was carried out during the rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Instructional farm, College of Agriculture and Research Station, IGKV, Raigarh, Chhattisgarh to find out the influence of different sowing dates and planting geometry on coriander. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with sixteen treatment combinations of main and sub plots, replicated trice. Four Dates of sowing viz. D1: 25th October, D2: 10th November, D3: 25th November and D4: 10th December were arranged in main plot and four planting geometries viz., S1: 30 x 5 cm, S2: 30 x 7.5 cm, S3: 30 x 10 cm and S4: 30 x 12.5 cm were taken as subplot treatments. Results revealed that coriander sown on 25th October registered significantly yield attributing characters viz., number of umbels plant-1, number of umbellets umbel-1, number of umbellets plant-1, number of seeds umbel-1, number of seeds umbellet-1, length of umbel, diameter of umbel, weight of umbels, test weight, seed yield plant-1 and seed yield ha-1. Among planting geometry, sowing of coriander at 30 x 12.5 cm spacing produced significantly higher values of aforesaid characters except for seed yield ha-1, which was maximum under 30 x 10 cm spacing. The interaction effect of 25th October coupled with the spacing 30 x 12.5 cm produced significant maximum seed yield plant-1.
Emerging Parasites among Apparently Healthy School Aged Children in Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Filgona J.  , Hamawa S. S.
Published: February 2024

Aim: This study examines the prevalence of Fasciola hepatica, Paragonimus westermani and Schistosoma intercalatum among school aged children across the geopolitical zones in Adamawa state, Nigeria.

Study Design: A cross sectional study designed was used and the study was conducted between October 2019 – March 2020. The study population include school age children studying between 7 – 25 years, studying in government schools across the geopolitical zones in Adamawa state.

Methods: A total of 1500 primary and secondary school students from 15 local government areas were enrolled for this study, residual stool samples were collected from each participant and immediately preserved in 10% formalin before taking to the laboratory where it is processed using concentration techniques and observed under the microscope.

Results: A total of 0.80% % of the children were found to be positive for at least one of the three parasites, with Fasciola hepatica being the most prevalent 0.47%, followed by Schistosoma intercalatum 0.27% and Paragonomus westermani 0.07%. High prevalence of these emerging parasites was observed in the southern senatorial zone than central and none was reported from northern zone.

Conclusion: This study reported for the presence Paragonimus westermani and Schistosoma intercalatum for the first time in Adamawa state, highlighting the need for further and a robust study to unravel the epidemiology of these parasites as well as other helminths associated with human infection in the state. This is critical for the design of intervention strategies.
Evaluation of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Varieties/Genotypes for Jassid, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) Resistance under Rainfed Conditions
Authors: Patel R. K. , Pandya J. R. , Desai H. R. , Patel A. R. , Chaudhari K. N.
Published: February 2024

Host plant resistance is an important component of integrated pest management strategy for jassid resistance. Evaluation of germplasm to identify the stable source of resistance is a predominant step in any resistance breeding programme. In this study, screening of Gossypium hirsutum cotton varieties/genotypes against jassid, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) was carried out under rainfed conditions during kharif seasons of 2016-17, 2018-19 and 2019-20 at Regional Cotton Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Maktampur farm, Bharuch, Gujarat. Among thirteen cotton varieties/genotypes screened, none of variety/genotype was categorized as resistant by considering jassid population as well as Jassid Resistance Index. Six cotton varieties/genotypes viz., NH-615, GBHV-201, GBHV-209, GBHV-204, G.N.Cot-26, GBHV-206 and two checks i.e. DHY-286 and NDLH-1938 were categorized as moderately resistant based on maximum jassid population ranged from 4.40 to 7.40 jassids/3 leaves. Three cotton varieties/genotypes viz., Suraj, Bunny BG II and Bunny Non Bt were categorized as susceptible with population of 12.50 to 13.70 jassids/3 leaves. The cotton variety G.Cot-16 (16.70 jassids/3 leaves) and check DCH-32 (24.60 jassids/3 leaves) were categorized as highly susceptible to jassids. Five cotton varieties/genotypes viz., NH-615, GBHV-201, GBHV-204, GBHV-209, G.N.Cot-26 and two checks i.e. DHY-286 and NDLH-1938 were categorized as moderately resistant based on maximum Jassid Resistance Index in range of 1.10 to 2.00. Only the genotype GBHV-206 was found susceptible with 2.20 JRI. Four cotton varieties/genotypes viz., G.Cot-16, Bunny BG II, Suraj, Bunny Non Bt and check DCH-32 were categorized as highly susceptible to jassid based on maximum JRI of 3.10 to 4.00. Overall five varieties/genotypes of G. hirsutum cotton viz., NH-615, GBHV-201, GBHV-209, GBHV-204 and G.N.Cot-26 were found moderately resistant to jassids under rainfed conditions.
Performance of Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) Varieties under Different Temperature and Relative Humidity Profiles
Authors: Bharti Rahul Raj , Khichar M. L. , Godara Mohit , Neeraj  , Beniwal Gourav , Duhan Ritik , Jakhar Aman
Published: February 2024

A study was performed at Department of Plant Pathology during year 2020, CCS Haryana Agricultural University to find the effect of different growing environments on temperature and humidity profile development, yield and its attributes in clusterbean crop. Three varieties of clusterbean varieties i.e. HG 365 (V1), HG 563 (V2) and HG 2-20 (V3) with each sown at three different dates of sowing i.e first (D1), third (D2) and fourth (D4) week of July in factorial randomized block design and replicated thrice. The diurnal range of temperature profiles at the emergence stage and flowering stage were higher in the crop sown in the first fortnight of July as compared to the second and third fortnights of July. Crops sown in the fourth week of July had a greater diurnal range of relative humidity profiles at the vegetative and pod formation stage while at flowering stage higher diurnal variation  were present in first week of July sown crop. However, among different cultivars of clusterbean, no variation in temperature and humidity profile were observed. Significantly higher number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, pod length, number of seeds per pod, harvesting index, grain and straw yield were found in D1 (first week of July) and V2 (HG 563)  as compared to remaining dates of sowing and varieties, respectively.
Application of Propolis Extracts in Prevention of the Occurrence and Development of Phytophthora infestans in Ecological Agricultural Production of Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Atiković Asja , Imširović Emir , Salkić Besim , Đozić Imad , Hodžić Sedina
Published: February 2024

Organic Agricultural Production is a special system of food production that exists in a rule-based, socially demanding, and environmentally constrained space within wider agriculture.  It must meet social standards in key areas, such as sustainable use of natural resources, while minimally impacting local ecosystems throughout the growth cycle. The use of phytopharmaceutical substitutes is a core component, replacing conventional agriculture pesticides which have been shown to damage local ecosystems.  In recent years, considerable research effort has been put into discovering alternative natural substitutes with pesticidal and antifungal properties.

The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects of propolis extracts on the growth and development of Phytopathological fungi, presenting an alternative to other phytopharmaceutical substitutes.

In this paper, the “American” tomato species are used throughout as it represents a common supermarket tomato variety.  The following are the conclusions central to this paper: (1) preventative usage of alcoholic extracts controlls the likelihood of development of Phytophthora infestans and its subsequent growth while having a reduced environmental impact (2) a comparison of propolis extracts with other staple organic extracts found improvements in profitability, produce growth speed and energy requirement (3) produce yield was increased with the use of a propolis solution compared to other organic extracts, however, a combined alcoholic extract of propolis  was found to have further benefits, specifically in the prevention and neutralization of aphids.
Nurturing Crops, Enhancing Soil Health, and Sustaining Agricultural Prosperity Worldwide through Agronomy
Authors: Mohanty Lalita Kumar , Singh N K , Raj Pranav , Prakash Aditya , Tiwari Awanindra Kumar , Singh Vishal , Sachan Prashun
Published: February 2024

Agronomy is the science and technology of crop and soil management for producing food, fiber, feed, and fuel. As the global population continues to rise, agronomy will play an increasingly vital role in meeting escalating food demands while sustaining natural resources. This review highlights major advancements in agronomic research and practice that enhance crop yields, soil health, and agricultural sustainability worldwide. Key topics include plant breeding for improved crop varieties, optimized plant nutrition and soil fertility management, efficient water management, integrated pest management (IPM), conservation agriculture techniques, precision agriculture technologies, and climate-smart farming approaches. Modern agronomy strategies such as drought-tolerant cultivars, micro-irrigation, reduced tillage systems, site-specific input applications, and integrated cropping systems can significantly improve productivity and resilience. However, continued innovation and diffusion of agronomic knowledge is crucial to nourish growing populations while protecting environmental quality. Collaborative efforts among researchers, educators, policy makers, and farmers will be imperative to apply advanced yet context-specific agronomic solutions that sustain agricultural prosperity into the future.
Impact Analysis of Noise Pollution on Human-Health: A Case Study of Southern Region of Nigeria
Authors: Ohaeri E. C.  , Obafemi A. A.
Published: February 2024

Noise pollution, though not a new problem, has increased in recent times in reflection of human activities. Noise is an unpleasant sound capable of causing psychological and physiological problems for human health and society. This study aimed to assess the impact of noise pollution on the health of residents in the capital cities of Calabar, Port Harcourt, Uyo and Yenagoa. Data was obtained through a structured questionnaire designed to get firsthand information from respondents on variables such as socioeconomic characteristics, noise effect, neighbourhood noise awareness and sources. Across all the cities, multiple choices of noise were picked by the respondents, mostly vehicular traffic and generating plants. Mental stress (16.6%) was reported as the common effect of noise pollution, followed by distraction and lack of concentration to work (13.4%), while the least effect was a risk of accident (2.1%), followed by speech interference (1.8%). Thus, it is recommended that cities with high noise generation activities should adopt noise pollution regulation policies and also have potential mitigation measures in place, which should include noise-absorbing structures.
South African Government Functionality Assessment through the Eyes of Ordinary Citizens
Authors: Rasila Bernard Naledzani
Published: February 2024

While there are promises of improving in areas such as creation of jobs, law enforcement, education and other fields by government representatives, it seems as if the targeted beneficiaries or citizens no longer believe in government interventions. They see the government deteriorating in general service delivery and many believe the government functionality in providing safety and better life to all citizens is compromised and in downward trajectory as this is even widely reported by South African media.

This qualitative study was intended to stipulate different works done by different government departments and agencies and use the beneficiaries accessible for participation to share their views in service delivery as received from specific agencies.  In simple terms, this study focusses on understanding how ordinary citizens rate government delivery in general and how this is depicted by the media sources. In majority, the study is based on desk top data with limited observation and some face-to-face interviews. The study revealed that indeed there are levels of dissatisfaction from members of the community, and some believe the functionality of the government of South Africa is questionable. Some even compare the first ten years of the democratic South Africa ending up in 2004 to the rest and argue that things are going to worse situations in South Africa as they feel no longer protected and no longer gearing to the creation of better life. There are citizens who believe South Africa has become kakistocracy state as it seems unable to come with effective plans in many areas of service delivery. On the other hand, this provides media with multiple negative headlines.