bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To Compare the Outcomes of Dorsal Dartos Flap, Tunica Vaginalis Flap and Durham Smith De-Epithelialized Dartos Based Flap as Secondary Interposition Cover after Tubularized Incised Plate Urethroplasty in Reducing Post-Operative Complications
Authors:   Assistant professor, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110002, India., Jain Nitin , Panda Shasanka Shekhar ,   Associate professor, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110002, India., Ratan Simmi K ,   Professor and head, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110002, India., Neogi Sujoy ,   Associate professor, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110002, India., Mitra Aparajita ,   Consultant, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110002, India., Kumar Chiranjiv ,   Associate professor, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110002, India.
Published: January 2024

Interposition flaps are mainstay in the success of hypospadias surgery because they lead to decrease in complications of hypospadias repair significantly especially urethrocutaneous fistula by buttressing the neo urethral suture line. Many interposition flaps have been tried with varying outcome results. Most commonly used interposition flaps are Tunica vaginalis flap and dorsal dartos flap however, recently interest have also researched in Durham smith de-epithelialized dartos based overlay flap. Though there are many publications comparing outcome of dorsal dartos and tunica vaginalis flap but hardly any study that has compared all three interposition flaps. So, we aimed to compare the outcomes of dorsal dartos flap (DF), tunica vaginalis flap (TVF) and Durham smith de-epithelialized dartos based overlay flap as interposition layer in TIP urethroplasty. Aim: To compare the outcomes of dorsal dartos flap (DF), tunica vaginalis flap (TVF) and Durham smith de-epithelialized dartos based flap as secondary interposition cover after Tubularized incised plate urethroplastyin reducing post-operative complication. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in which case records of 78 patients who had undergone repair for distal and midpenile hypospadias with minimal chordee and favorable anatomy by the Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty with interposition flap over 2 years (2017-2019) were reviewed. Patients were divided in three groups with 26 subjects in each group. Group A consisted of patients with dorsal dartos interposition flap, Group B comprised of patients with Tunica vaginalis interposition flap and Group C consisted of patients with Durham smith deepithelialized dartos based overlay cover. Outcome variables noted were the complications including wound dehiscence, Urethrocutaneous fistula, Meatal stenosis, Penile torsion, skin necrosis and preputial edema. Statistical methods were applied to compare these complications in all three groups.
A Clinical and Pathological Study of Fistula-in-ANO
Authors:   Senior Consultant and HOD, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital, Aurangabad 431010, Maharashtra, India., Deshpande Satish , Kalagani BB Prasad ,   Resident DNB Genernal Surgery, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital, Aurangabad 431010, Maharashtra, India., Jagtap Dinesh ,   Junior Consultant, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital, Aurangabad 431010, Maharashtra, India.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Fistula-in-ano is a very common ano-rectal condition with wide spectrum of aetiology with a prevalence 8.6 to 10/100,000 of the population per year. Establishing a cure is problematic due to location of the diseased part, that makes the patient refrain from early consultation and this delays in treatment. Fistula causes appreciable morbidity and inconvenience to the patient and there is scarcity of studies on its etiopathogenesis, clinical features, investigations and treatment. Hence, this study was undertaken to study the clinical and pathological presentations, efficacy of surgical modalities and treatment outcomes. Material And Methods: An observational study was conducted during the study period (April 2017 to March 2018) on patients admitted at Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital for the evaluation of Fistula in ano, 90 patients were enrolled in the study after fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria and taking written/verbal informed consent. The patients underwent either fistulectomy and fistulotomy according to the criteria decided. Results: In our study, incidence was noticed more in the age group of 31-40 years 40%, and more in males. 70% of patients belonged to lower socio-economic status; incidence was more common in among drivers 30%. The commonest mode of presentation was discharging pus in 70% of cases. Majority of the patients 80% underwent fistulectomy. Among 72 patients who underwent fistulectomy, all the patients responded with complete healing after surgery. Conclusion: It was concluded that history, clinical examination, per rectal and perineal examination helps to diagnose the condition. Proctoscopy, sigmoidoscopy and MRI examination helps in diagnosing complicated cases. It is curable disease by the treatment of surgery along with necessary antibiotics, analgesics and good post-operative wound management.
Closed Incision Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Assisted Full Thickness Graft Aite Wound Dressing to Prevent Surgical Site Infection
Authors:   Senior resident, Department of Plastic Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry 605006, India., J S Amrutha , Chittoria Ravi Kumar ,   Professor & Registrar (Academic), Department of Plastic Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry 605006, India., Singh. P Barath Kumar ,   Senior resident, Department of Plastic Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry 605006, India.
Published: January 2024

Closed incision Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (CiNPWT) which is a topical application of negative pressure over the wound plays a key role in healing and prevention of surgical site infections. We have used full thickness graft following post burn contracture release. We then applied negative pressure wound therapy over to this flap to assess its efficacy and safety in aiding healing.
Hemorrhoidectomy: Open versus Closed: A Randomised Trial
Authors:   Senior Resident, Department of General Surgery, Shivamogga institute of medical science, Shivamogga 577201 Karnataka, India., G Nikhil Naithottu , Kempraj T ,   Professor Department of General Surgery, Bangalore Medical College and Reserch Institute, Bangalore 560004, Karnataka, India.
Published: January 2024

Aims and objectives: 1. To evaluate the outcomes of open and closed hemorrhoidectomy. 2. To compare the advantages and disadvantages in open and closed hemorrhoidectomy. Methodology: A randomised control trail was conducted on 56 patients presenting with grade 3 or grade 4 haemorrhoids at tertiary care centre. Patients were divided into groups of Group A – undergoing Open haemorrhoidectomy and Group B – undergoing Closed haemorrhoidectomy. Each group consisted of 28 patients. Patients in both groups were followed up and various parameters were assessed. Results: Mean duration of procedure for open haemorrhoidectomy was 22.32 minutes and for closed haemorrhoidectomy was 30 minutes. Mean intraoperative blood loss in both the procedures was 23.39 ml. 64.28% of patients showed wound healing at 3 weeks in group A and 46.42% in group B. Mean VAS score at discharge was 3.71 for group A and 4.64 for group B (p <0.001). Mean hospital stay for group A – 3.7 and for group B – 5 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: As per the observations made and data obtained in our study it showed that open haemorrhoidectomy to be superior to closed haemorrhoidectomy.
Clinico-Epidemiological Profile of Blunt Trauma Abdomen Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital: An Observational Study
Authors:   Postgraduate Final Year Student,  Department of Surgery, Sadar Patel Medical College and PBM Hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India., Kumar Samriddh , Halam Irene ,   Postgraduate Final Year Student,  Department of Surgery, Sadar Patel Medical College and PBM Hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India., Khadda Sandeep ,   Associate professor, Department of Surgery, Sadar Patel Medical College and PBM Hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India., Dawan M.L. ,   Professor, Department of Surgery, Sadar Patel Medical College and PBM Hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India., Chhabra Abhishek ,   Associate professor, Department of Surgery, Sadar Patel Medical College and PBM Hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India., Kishor Sunder ,   Associate professor, Department of Surgery, Sadar Patel Medical College and PBM Hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India.
Published: January 2024

Background: Trauma is the leading cause of death in the population under the age of 45 year sold.1 Among trauma cases, Abdominal trauma accounts for the third most commonly injured part of the body. With the rising trend of road traffic accidents, the clinical patterns and profile of blunt abdominal trauma patients is also changing. Aim: To access the incidence, mode of injury and clinical presentation of blunt abdominal trauma patients in order to access the problem size in the study area. Material and Method: A prospective descriptive type of study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital including 100 study participants. All the patients with the diagnosis of the blunt abdominal trauma were assessed clinically at the time of presentation. After obtaining written informed consent, the detailed information regarding the mode of injury, clinical presentation was collected and recorded. Data Analysis: The data collected were then entered in MS Excel sheet and was analysed using SPSS v 20.0. the data was presented in the form of numbers and proportions. Results and conclusion: 85% of participants were male, majority (55%) belong to 21-40 years age group. The most common mode of injury was Road traffic accidents (75%) and most common clinical presentation was pain abdomen (98%). Spleen was the most common solid organ involved.
Role of Cyclical Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Healing of Skin Graft Donor Site
Authors:   Junior Resident, Department of General Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry 605006, India., Nandhakumar S. , Chittoria Ravi Kumar ,   Professor, Department of Plastic Surgery and Telemedicine,Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry 605006, India., Singh P. Barath Kumar ,   Senior Resident, Department of Plastic Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry 605006, India.
Published: January 2024

Aim of this case report is to assess the role of cyclical negative pressure wound therapy (CNPWT) in management of skin graft donor site healing. Clinical examination of the donor site before and after the use of cyclical negative pressure wound therapy (CNPWT) was done. Cyclical negative pressure wound therapy (CNPWT) is effective in healing of donor site wound. Cyclical negative pressure wound therapy (CNPWT) may be used in donor site healing.
Biochemical Markers as Prognostic Factors in Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Prospective Study
Authors:   Postgraduate fnal year, Department of General Surgery, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Vijayapura 586103, Karnataka, India., Chaitanya M. Jagadish , Patil Aravind V ,   Principal, Department of General Surgery, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Vijayapura 586103, Karnataka, India., Kotennavar M. S. ,   Professor, Department of General Surgery, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Vijayapura 586103, Karnataka, India., Benakatti Rajendra ,   Associate professor, Department of General Surgery, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Vijayapura 586103, Karnataka, India., Jaju Pradeep P. ,   Assistant professor, Department of General Surgery, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Vijayapura 586103, Karnataka, India., Savanth Manjunath ,   Senior Resident, Department of General Surgery, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Vijayapura 586103, Karnataka, India.
Published: January 2024

Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections are frequently associated with a fulminant presentation and fatal outcomes. A side from critical care and antibiotic therapy, aggressive surgical treatment is essential for the treatment of necrotizing fasciitis. The purpose of this study was to see if post-operative procalcitonin, lactate dehydrogenase, albumin, and culture sensitivity could be used to predict successful surgical intervention. Methods: The study group consisted of 92 patients treated with clinical signs of sepsis caused by a necrotizing soft tissue infection. All patients received radical surgical treatment, and S.PCT, S.LDH, Albumin and wound culture and sensitivity were sent on POD3. Results: Out of 92 patients’ mortality was seen in 11 patients and amputation was done in 6 patients. The biochemical markers which were included in the study showed significant results (p<0.01) * that is serum procalcitonin and serum LDH were elevated and s. albumin was low in all patients who are died and amputated except in one patient. There was no significant in the microbial flora and the outcome of the patient. Conclusions: The biochemical markers PCT, LDH, Albumin following major surgical procedures for necrotizing soft tissue infections represents a valuable clinical tool indicating successful surgical eradication of the infectious focus.
Desarda’s Repair as an Alternative Procedure: A Physiological Approach to Complicated Inguinal hernia
Authors:   Senior Resident, Department of General Surgery, Bangalore Medical College & Research Institute, Bangalore 560004, Karnataka, India., B Dinesh , G Nikhil Naithottu ,   Senior Resident, Department of General Surgery, Shimoga Institute of Medical Sciences, Shivamogga 577201, Karnataka, India.
Published: January 2024

Background: Complicated inguinal hernia is one of the most common conditions encountered in a surgical emergency. Of arious surgical procedures available we are comparing Desarda’s and Modified Bassini’s repair in our study. Aims & Objectives: To compare Desarda’s repair with Modified Bassini’s repair in complicated inguinal hernia concerning the duration of the procedure and various post-operative complications. Methods: We have included 52 patients with complicated inguinal hernias presenting to the emergency department after taking informed consent and ethical committee clearance. Patients were randomly divided into two groups using computer software Group A and Group B. Group A: Consists of 26 patients and underwent Modified Bassini’s repair. Group B: Consists of 26 patients and underwent Desarda’s repair. Various intraoperative and post-operative complications were studied. The patient was followed up for a 3 years period for recurrence of an inguinal hernia. Results: Desarda’s repair had less post-operative pain score. Complications such as seroma formation and recurrence in the follow-up period were less compared to Modified Bassini’s repair. Conclusion: Desarda’s repair was found to be a better alternative for a complicated inguinal hernia when compared to Modified Bassini’s repair.
Analisis Data Hujan Satelit untuk Pembuatan Peta Spasial Hujan Rancangan di DAS Rondoningo
Authors: Shabrina Salsabila , Harisuseno Donny , Andawayanti Ussy
Published: January 2024

Bencana banjir sering kali terjadi pada wilayah DAS Rondoningo. Banjir tersebut dapat diatasi dengan melakukan pembangunan infrastruktur sumber daya air. Pada perencanaan infrastruktur diperlukan data curah hujan dari stasiun hujan di DAS Rondoningo. Namun di DAS Rondoningo keberadaan stasiun hujan masih belum merata sehingga diperlukan data pendukung untuk menambah data dengan data satelit CHIRPS. Tujuan dari studi ini adalah mempermudah penggunaan hujan rancangan dengan disajikan dalam bentuk peta spasial. Hujan rancangan dihitung dengan analisis distribusi frekuensi metode Gumbel dan Log Pearson III untuk kala ulang 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, dan 100 tahun. Pemodelan peta spasial dilakukan dengan interpolasi Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW). Hasil perhitungan curah hujan rancangan menunjukkan nilai terendah pada kala ulang 2 tahun sebesar 90,140 mm dan nilai curah hujan tertinggi pada kala ulang 100 tahun sebesar 315,184 mm. Curah hujan rancangan tersebut diubah menjadi peta spasial dengan metode IDW dan membentuk pola garis serupa. Hasil peta hujan rancangan diuji validasinya terhadap hasil perhitungan menggunakan NSE dan RSR yang menunjukkan hasil sangat baik. Peta hujan rancangan kala ulang 100 tahun juga dibandingkan dengan peta milik Kementerian PU dengan kesesuaian sebesar 19% (kurang memuaskan).
Pemanfaatan Data Hujan Satelit Untuk Pembuatan Peta Spasial Hujan Rancangan Di DAS Kedunggaleng
Authors: Putri Wanda Pratiwi Putri , Harisuseno Donny Harisuseno , Wahyuni Sri Wahyuni
Published: January 2024

Bencana banjir pada Daerah Aliran Sungai (DAS) Kedunggaleng terjadi karena adanya luapan pada aliran sungai. Upaya mitigasi banjir memerlukan data masukan hujan yang akurat dari aspek panjang data hujan dan sebaran kejadian hujan (spatial) yang di DAS Kedunggaleng. Keberadaan data hujan satelit menjadi alternatif untuk memperkirakan data hujan pada bagian DAS yang tidak terukur. Studi ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan perkiraan peta spasial hujan rancangan berbagai kala ulang dengan teknik interpolasi spasial Inverse Distance Weight (IDW) dengan memanfaatkan data hujan satelit CHIRPS dan data hujan pengamatan.   Kalibrasi data hujan satelit dengan pengamatan dilakukan untuk mencari persamaan hubungan keduanya. Kala ulang hujan rancangan yang digunakan meliputi 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 dan 100 tahun. Distribusi frekuensi Gumbel dan Log Pearson III digunakan untuk menghitung hujan rancangan, yang selanjutnya digunakan sebagai data masukan pembuatan peta sebaran hujan dengan interpolasi IDW. Peta hujan rancangan hasil interpolasi IDW dibandingkan dengan hujan rancangan hasil analisis frekuensi dan dari peta hujan rancangan Kementerian PUPR dimana penilaian dilakukan dengan kriteria Root Mean Standard Ratio (RSR) dan Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE). Hasil validasi hujan rancangan dari interpolasi IDW menunjukkan performa yang baik dimana hasil perbandingan dengan peta hujan rancangan Kementerian PU menunjukkan nilai Kesalahan relatif (KR) sebesar 5,94%.
PLURALIDADE E MUDANÇA INSTITUCIONAL
Authors: Lamenha Bruno , Danielle Santiago Lima Flávia
Published: January 2024

O trabalho apresenta duas perguntas de pesquisa: i) os efeitos do modelo federativo brasileiro no desenho do MP brasileiro (pluralidade institucional) permite pensá-lo como uma organização nacional? ii) há suporte empírico para a hipótese de deslocamento das prioridades de atuação do MP do campo da tutela coletiva para a repressão penal anticorrupção a partir de meados dos anos 2000 (giro de prioridades), considerando essa pluralidade institucional? O marco teórico-metodológico articula o institucionalismo histórico e o mapeamento de processos como um modelo analítico adequado para a construção de explicações causais sobre processos históricos-temporais com base em evidências qualitativas. Três eixos de análise são percorridos no texto: i) investigam-se regularidades compartilhadas pelos órgãos do MP brasileiro e até que ponto isso permitiria seu estudo como organização nacional; ii) mapeiam-se elementos relevantes da sequência temporal relacionada ao desenvolvimento de uma agenda nacional anticorrupção a partir de 2003; iii) analisa-se o desempenho do MP brasileiro, a partir dos dados de produtividade publicados pelo CNMP desde 2014. Como resultado, propõe-se que, embora imponha limites, a pluralidade institucional não impede o estudo do MP como organização nacional; e que a hipótese do giro de prioridades tem suporte empírico para ser pensada como uma tendência nacional.
TEORIA DA ARGUMENTAÇÃO PARA A CONCEPÇÃO DO DIREITO COMO INTEGRIDADE DE DWORKIN
Authors: Dionísio de Andrade Mariana , Santos Bezerra Sá Alexandre
Published: January 2024

O artigo tem por objetivo verificar a possibilidade de uma teoria da argumentação no âmbito da teoria do Direito como Integridade, de Ronald Dworkin. A pesquisa se sustenta em revisão de literatura a partir da análise sobre a contradição epistemológica das teorias da argumentação jurídica vigentes e a teoria do Direito como Integridade, com base em Hans-Georg Gadamer e Ronald Dworkin. Conclui-se que, apesar dessa contradição, é possível uma teoria da argumentação dentro da teoria de Dworkin, desde que superada a lógica de desenvolvimento de um caminho prévio e metódico para se alcançar uma verdade metafísica. Sem ilusões ou relativismos, propõe-se o acolhimento do Direito como Integridade, fundado em bases hermenêuticas, como uma alternativa para o fortalecimento de um processo argumentativo no âmbito de um Estado Democrático de Direito.
NEGÓCIOS SOCIAIS E FORMATOS JURÍDICOS
Authors: Dusek Patricia Maria , Santos Avelar Kátia Eliane , Pádua Gilaberte Thalissa , Freitas Franquini Karen
Published: January 2024

Este estudo tem por objetivo discutir a inexistência de modelo jurídico brasileiro que seja capaz de pautar os negócios sociais. Os negócios sociais possuem um alto potencial de gerar transformações na sociedade, enquanto geram resultados financeiros positivos. O ecossistema de negócio social no Brasil cresceu significativamente nos últimos anos, contudo no Brasil não há uma legislação específica para regulamentar os negócios sociais, inclusive no plano societário, gerando uma lacuna na constituição societária para formalização desses empreendimentos, os quais tem se dado por meio da adoção dos diversos tipos de pessoas jurídicas existentes, ora próprios do segundo setor, por meio da sociedade com responsabilidade limitada ou anônima, ora próprios do terceiro setor, normalmente por meio de associações. A pesquisa proposta foi desenvolvida a partir de uma revisão bibliográfica consistindo na análise de uma vasta produção teórica em diferentes bases de artigos e livros científicos. Como resultados, foi possível observar que os formatos legais possíveis para os negócios de impacto no Brasil são variados, podendo haver ou não distribuição de dividendos ou até mesmo retorno de capital aplicado aos investidores, dependendo do formato legal escolhido. Reconhece que o empreendedorismo social, a depender do país, possui contornos e formatos jurídicos distintos. Conclui-se que dentre as contribuições deste estudo, destaca-se que um tipo jurídico específico deve ser criado para esse tipo de negócio, de modo a trazer mais segurança jurídica aos envolvidos, uma vez que o tema se encontra crescente no país.
OSCAR VILHENA VIEIRA, A CONSTITUIÇÃO E SUA RESERVA DE JUSTIÇA
Authors: Megali Neto Almir
Published: January 2024

Este texto é uma resenha crítica da segunda edição do livro A constituição e sua reserva de justiça: uma teoria sobre os limites materiais ao poder de reforma, de autoria de Oscar Vilhena Vieira, publicado pela editora WWF Martins Fontes, em 2023. Além da introdução e da conclusão, a resenha está dividida em duas seções. Inicialmente, é feita uma apresentação geral da obra e do seu autor. Posteriormente, são apresentados os argumentos do autor ao longo do livro e tecidas considerações críticas. A conclusão é um convite para que mais e mais pessoas possam ter contato com a obra que propõe uma reflexão acerca da articulação da permanência e da mudança constitucional a partir da relação entre limites materiais ao poder de reforma constitucional e soberania popular.
The Influence of Job Security and Psychological Contract Fulfilment on Organisational Citizenship Behaviour in Indian Private Life Insurance Sector
Authors: Nil Shachie , Nil Sapna
Published: January 2024

The goal of the article is to empirically link the employment security to the employee’s organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB) with examining the impact of psychological contract fulfilment (PCF). The discretionary behaviour of the employees towards the organisation and towards other employees of the organisation is very crucial as this is the element which affects the productivity of the employees in the organisation and how much an employee is attached to his organisation is related to his OCB which he exhibits. This study proposes to interpret and examine the associations between psychological contract and OCB and job security (JS) in the Indian Life Insurance sector so as to raise the light for the managers in Life Insurance sector to improve JS, providing a better experience in terms of psychological contract which will improve their citizenship behaviour. The Life Insurance companies are at a struggle point of retaining their talented manpower as this sector is the budding sector of India which is growing at a rate of 32% annually. For this, promising the JS is the tool in their hand which will directly impact their OCB also and hence their performance will also boost up. Data was collected from 288 full time employees of private life insurance companies and then structural equation modelling was applied to study the relationship. The results demonstrate the positive and significant relationship of JS and PCF on the OCB in the private life insurance sector.
Sustainable Banking: A Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Chandran M. C. Sarath , B. Sathiyabama , Santhoshkumar N.
Published: January 2024

Sustainable banking is a banking model that integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into its operations and decision-making processes. It is focused on promoting sustainable development by considering the long-term impact of its activities on society, the economy and the environment. During the beginning of 80’s, the extensive literatures on sustainable banking were unproductive and this issue continues to the end of 2000’s. Based on this situation, the researchers used Bibliometric analysis of various literatures of about 719 studies which includes articles, reviews, conference papers, book chapters from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) categories during the period 2000–2021. About 2324 studies were identified from the database. To undergo the research, we acknowledged the main domains which are closely related to sustainable banking from its evolution. The main domains such as corporate social responsibility, banking sector, economic growth, ethical banking, financial stability, green banking, sustainable finance, banking industry, banking system, micro finance and banking regulations. Further we mapped with this into VOS Viewer and analysed how these domains can contribute to sustainability in the banking sector. It is found that, several climatic risks are faced by the banking sector all over the world and hence, the financial sector must make necessary alterations to environmentally friendly strategies to climate sensitive sectors. Sustainability is still under a question mark in the banking sector as several advancements are being introduced not only in technology but also in physical appearance day by day. Finally, to say, the banks must engage in green sustainable strategies towards sustainable banking in the banking industry.
Effect of Bank Credit on the Business Performance of Unorganised Event Management Firms in Salem District
Authors: Krishnakumar K. , Arul M.
Published: January 2024

The unorganised event management sector comprises a significant portion of the overall event industry in India. These are small businesses that provide event planning and management services. These firms operate without proper structure or organisation, making it difficult for them to compete with larger organised firms. However, unorganised event management firms have strengths that allow them to provide services to clients that organised firms may not be able to provide. Though, due to the lack of proper infrastructure, stiff competition and financial support, many event organisers operating in the unorganised sector face various challenges. The banks can play a vital role in supporting these event organisers by providing them with financial assistance and other services. This study investigates the effect of bank credit on the business performance of unorganised event management firms. The study covers 230 unorganised event organisers from the Salem district. The qualitative data were collected by using a well-crafted questionnaire. The study result proved that bank credit has significantly influenced the business performance of event management firms. Event organisers are satisfied with their business performance. Moreover, bank credit has substantially influenced business performance in developing a capacity to conduct multiple events simultaneously, business growth, return on investment, profitability, competitive advantage, purchase of new equipment and adoption of recent technology. The study recommended that banks should frame adequate policies to support small business firms to access bank credit without any hindrance. Hence, to face challenges, event management firms should invest in proper organisational structure, recruit experienced professionals, and implement efficient planning and execution processes. This will help them to deliver successful events and build a positive reputation in the industry.
Income Diversification and Financial Sustainability of Indian Microfinance Institutions (MFIs): An Empirical Study
Authors: Mahali Monica , Ansari Md Nasim
Published: January 2024

Microfinance institutions (MFIs) emerged intending to provide financial services to underserved populations, fostering economic inclusion and poverty alleviation. However, achieving this aim is wholly based on the MFIs’ financial sustainability and profitability. MFIs’ fundamental structural restrictions might make raising income through increased interest rates difficult. As a result, it is now widely acknowledged that MFIs with various revenue streams outperform those primarily focused on lending in terms of financial sustainability. This study investigates this link by assessing the impact of income diversification on the financial performance and financial self-sufficiency of the top ten listed Indian MFIs. The study uses eight years of panel data from 2016 to 2023, and analysis was made by applying descriptive statistics, Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI), and panel data regression models. Our findings provide empirical support for the banking studies’ preference for focused strategies over diversification strategies, showing that expanding income sources has no impact on the financial performance (return on equity/return on asset) and financial self-sufficiency (FSS) of Indian MFIs.
Testing Portfolio Balance Approach to Exchange Rate during Managed Float: An Empirical Evidence from India
Authors: Devi Shalini
Published: January 2024

Any global economic and financial disturbance affects trade and capital flows of our economy through exchange rate movements. The portfolio balance (PB) approach considers the capital flows as an additional variable explaining the exchange rate movements. This approach assumes domestic and foreign bonds to be imperfect substitutes. The bonds bearing high risk carry comparatively higher return in the form of risk premium. This study attempts to re-examine the empirical soundness of the PB model in respect of Indian rupee/ US dollar (INR/US $) exchange rate. It covers the period from 2000: 1 to 2023:1. Augmented Dickey Fuller test and Phillip Perron tests are used to test stationarity property of the variables. The Ordinary Least Square (OLS) methodology of regression is used for the purpose of estimation. Autocorrelation problem is dealt with by using the Cochrane Orcutt procedure. The PB model is estimated in naïve form as well as in partial adjustment form. The empirical finding shows that the PB model works well in partial adjustment framework rather than in its naïve form with speed of adjustment being three to four quarters. The money supply differential and relative real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) are identified as significant variables whereas the bond holding variable remained insignificant. However, in the long run, the model did not work. It is suggested that the fiscal and monetary policies that enhance capital spending in productive sectors should be implemented to achieve a gradually appreciating exchange rate.
Validating the Financial Literacy Construct - Impressions and Reflections
Authors: Deb Rajat , Baruah Devi , Datta Haripada
Published: January 2024

Financial literacy (FL) literature has gained momentum in the last one and half decades in the Indian context with the government’s active role. FL encompasses knowledge of financial instruments and practices in its scope. The current study aims to measure FL by collecting primary data from the students, salaried class, traders and businessmen of two towns of Tripura, a North Eastern Indian state. For executing the study, it prefers a cross-sectional research design. Data from 160 respondents were collected using a self-administered interview-schedule applying disproportionate stratified random sampling technique. A pre-test with randomly chosen 30 respondents affirms its wording, content validity and ordering. The tool’s reliability and validity further support applying inferential statistics. Significant cross tabulation results affirm impacts of demographics on the levels of FL. For assessing the perceptional differences in FL basics between the two groups of respondents, that is, students-salaried class and traders-businessmen, it applies WPG analysis indicating significant perceptional differences about basic FL, and FL awareness levels. For evaluating whether the four types of sample respondents classified based on their occupations have any significantly differential influences on FL awareness, the Pearson Correlation Coefficient results affirm the same. Policy implications, limitations and scope of further research also indicated.
Nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) impact on blood safety compared to Immunoassays in blood banks: A Review
Authors: Cadena-Ullauri Santiago , Gaviria Anibal , Guevara-Ramirez Patricia , Ruiz-Pozo Viviana A. , Tamayo-Trujillo Rafael , Paz-Cruz Elius , Zambrano Ana Karina
Published: January 2024

Blood transfusions are fundamental to clinical procedures; however, many people worldwide cannot access safe blood. Blood product safety must be essential in each country’s national health policies. Several aspects of the blood donation process are carefully performed, including laboratory testing comprising blood type determination, antigen-antibody analyses, and nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT); however, NAT is not mandatory in all countries. The traditional screening method is based on antigen-antibody binding techniques, such as ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), with high sensitivity and specificity. Nevertheless, these methods have a seroconversion window period (WP), in which antigen-antibody testing cannot detect the pathogen and has not caused any symptoms yet. NAT is a sensitive molecular method based on viral nucleic acid amplification and detection. Moreover, its use in blood banks is increasing worldwide because it narrows the window period. For example, Huang et al. in 2017 reported the detection of 22 samples reactive only by nucleic acid testing for either HIV, HBV, or HCV compared with ELISA.

The present article shows how blood safety has improved by implementing NAT as a routine method for viral nucleic acid detection, highlighting the importance of this technique as evidenced by the findings presented herein. Moreover, these results are highly significant, demonstrating the relevance of NAT and advocating for its application on a global scale in blood management protocols. This development could be particularly beneficial for regions with a high viral infection prevalence, including many countries.

Keywords: Nucleic acid amplification, Immunoassay, viral infection, blood bank.
Caracterización microbiológica de biofertilizantes inoculados con microorganismos de montaña en el departamento de Copán Honduras
Authors: López Guevara Juan Manuel , Estévez Ramírez Kevin Javier , Mejía Arita Elena , Romero Zepeda Elyn Antonieta , Díaz Chacón Francis Abel
Published: January 2024

Se analizaron las características microbiológicas de diferentes tipos de biofertilizantes durante el proceso de fermentación, elaborados con diferentes sustratos orgánicos e inoculados con microorganismos de montaña (MM), obtenidos de una zona montañosa del departamento de Copán, Honduras. Se planteó un diseño experimental, cuyos tratamientos estaban constituidos por biofertilizantes formulados con MM en medio líquido más diferentes sustratos orgánicos (estiércol de ganado bovino, de porcino, gallinaza y un grupo de control sin inoculación de MM). Luego, se observaron y midieron las poblaciones de hongos, bacterias, bacterias productoras de ácido láctico, actinomicetos y levaduras de los biofertilizantes. Los resultados del análisis muestran que no se presentan diferencias estadísticas significativas (α = 0.05) entre las medias de las poblaciones, en ninguno de los tratamientos. No se presentan diferencias estadísticas (α = 0.05) durante el tiempo de fermentación (TF), excepto para las poblaciones de actinomicetos, manifestadas en una reducción en los primeros días de fermentación, y una ligera elevación en las últimas semanas, probablemente atribuible a su lenta velocidad de crecimiento. Los resultados obtenidos podrán contribuir a los conocimientos actuales y a las prácticas que los productores agrícolas realizan en los sistemas de producción, al utilizar alternativas orgánicas de fertilización.
Palabras claves. microorganismos de montaña, biofertilizantes, características microbiológicas, proceso de fermentación, estiércol bovino, estiércol porcino, gallinaza.
High microbiological contamination in surface waters in the upper basin of the Choluteca River in Honduras
Authors: Maldonado Victoria , Mendoza Keylin , Rivera Luis , Peña Tania , Chirinos-Escobar Marcio , Enríquez Lourdes , Fontecha Gustavo , Ortiz Bryan
Published: January 2024

Microorganisms with a high pathogenic potential for humans and animals can spread through water. This represents a severe threat to public health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where sanitation conditions are often limited. Due to their constant presence in the intestine and feces of both people and animals, total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, and intestinal Enterococcus have historically been employed as indicators of fecal contamination to evaluate water quality for human use and consumption. Under no circumstances should water sources for human use and consumption have bacteria indicating fecal contamination. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of surface water from six sub-basins located in the upper basin of the Cholulteca River in Honduras and determine the Escherichia coli phylogroups isolated in these samples. Our results show high rates of fecal contamination, suggesting that surface waters in the upper Choluteca River basin are unsafe for human consumption. Phylogroups B1 and D were the most frequent among 29 E. coli isolates, while phylogroups C and F were the least frequent. Measures must be taken to raise awareness about sanitation and good practices for managing household waste and those generated by agro-industrial and livestock activities in the area. Surface water in the Choluteca River basin must be adequately treated before consumption because it may impact people's health. In addition, we encourage prompt decision-making by the health authorities. In conclusion, this study assessed the microbiological quality of water in the upper Choluteca River basin. Our findings show high rates of fecal contamination and the predominance of E. coli strains from phylogroups associated with fecal contamination, suggesting that these waters are unsafe for human consumption.
Keywords: fecal contamination; E. coli; phylogroups; surface water; Choluteca River basin; Honduras
Role of Irrigation Scheduling and Potassium Levels on the Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Anbar 33 cultivar
Authors: Al-Mashhadani Ahmed , Hassan Saad , Al_Budeiri Muntadher , Matar Ali
Published: January 2024

A field experiment was carried out in the Agricultural Research Office fields / Al Diwaniyah Research Station in 2019 to study the role of irrigation scheduling and potassium levels in the Growth and yield of rice (Oryza sativa L.) Anbar 33 cultivar. A Factorial experiment Design in order of split plot with three replicates was used, the main plots occupied with irrigation factor (I) with four levels I1, I2, I3 and I4 representing irrigation every (1,2,3 and 4 days respectively), while the subplots occupied with potassium fertilizer factor (K) with four levels K1, K2, K3 and K4 representing (0, 60, 120 and 180 Kg k ha-1 respectively). The Results indicated that the Irrigation scheduling affected Growth and yield traits where I2 treatment was significantly superior in plant height, panicle length, panicle number, the weight of 1000 grains, grain yield and biological yield, which gave 97.3cm, 23.42cm, 100.8m2, 17.77gm, 2.86Meg ha-1 and 10.00 Meg ha-1 respectively, which did not different significantly of I1 treatment on plant height, panicle length, panicles number, grain yield and biological yield. The addition of potassium fertilizer significantly affected the studied traits, as K2 was significantly superior on panicle number, grain number/panicle, grain yield and biological yield, which gave 101.9m2, 60.58, 2.94 Mgh-1 and 9.69 Mgh-1, respectively, which did not different significantly than K4 treatment on panicles number, grain number/panicle and grain yield. The interaction indicated that there were significant differences among treatments, as I2K2 was significantly superior on panicle number, grain number/panicle, grain yield and biological yield, which gave 160.0m2, 55.00, 4.20Meg ha-1 and 13.63Meg ha-1, respectively.
Keywords. Potassium fertilizer; Irrigation role; Drought tolerance Rice.
Influence of compressive forces and aging through thermocycling on the strength of mono incremental dental composite resins
Authors: Sigcho Romero Cristian Roberto , Mejía Mosquera Henry Fabricio , Quisiguiña Guevara Sandra Marcela , Alvarado Aguayo Yudy Jacqueline
Published: January 2024

Understanding dental composite resins' physical and mechanical properties is vital for advancing dental materials science, enhancing durability, and improving patient care. The present study aims to quantitatively investigate the impact of compressive forces and thermocycling aging on the strength of mono incremental dental composite resins, focusing on three materials: 3M Filtek One Bulk Fill, Opus Bulk Fill APS A2 from FGM, and Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill VIA from Ivoclar Vivadent. Using a mixed quasi-experimental approach, 84 samples were divided into a control group and an experimental group, comprising 14 samples of each material. The samples underwent a thermocycling process involving temperature cycles between 5°C, 37°C, and 55°C, totaling 10,800 cycles, simulating one year of aging. Subsequently, compressive strength tests were conducted using a universal press to identify the fracture point of the material and calculate its strength. Our results reveal differences in the material before and after thermocycling; however, these differences were not statistically significant concerning strength. Thus, it is concluded that one year of thermocycling aging does not induce substantial changes in the resin that would compromise its strength. Future research should consider extended thermocycling tests spanning multiple years to pinpoint the potential onset of issues affecting material strength durability.

Keywords: compressive strength, dental composite resins, thermocycling, aging, mono incremental.
Identifying Factors of User Acceptance of a Drone-Based Medication Delivery: User-Centered Design Approach
Authors: Fink Franziska , Kalter Ivonne , Steindorff Jenny-Victoria , Helmbold Hans Konrad , Paulicke Denny , Jahn Patrick
Published: January 2024

Background

The use of drones in the health care sector is increasingly being discussed against the background of the aging population and the growing shortage of skilled workers. In particular, the use of drones to provide medication in rural areas could bring advantages for the care of people with and without a need for care. However, there are hardly any data available that focus on the interaction between humans and drones.

Objective

This study aims to disclose and analyze factors associated with user acceptance of drone-based medication delivery to derive practice-relevant guidance points for participatory technology development (for apps and drones).

Methods

A controlled mixed methods study was conducted that supports the technical development process of an app design for drone-assisted drug delivery based on a participatory research design. For the quantitative analysis, established and standardized survey instruments to capture technology acceptance, such as the System Usability Scale; Technology Usage Inventory (TUI); and the Motivation, Engagement, and Thriving in User Experience model, were used. To avoid possible biasing effects from a continuous user development (eg, response shifts and learning effects), an ad hoc group was formed at each of the 3 iterative development steps and was subsequently compared with the consisting core group, which went through all 3 iterations.

Results

The study found a positive correlation between the usability of a pharmacy drone app and participants’ willingness to use it (r=0.833). Participants’ perception of usefulness positively influenced their willingness to use the app (r=0.487; TUI). Skepticism had a negative impact on perceived usability and willingness to use it (r=−0.542; System Usability Scale and r=−0.446; TUI). The study found that usefulness, skepticism, and curiosity explained most of the intention to use the app (F3,17=21.12; P<.001; R2=0.788; adjusted R2=0.751). The core group showed higher ratings on the intention to use the pharmacy drone app than the ad hoc groups. Results of the 2-tailed t tests showed a higher rating on usability for the third iteration of the core group compared with the first iteration.

Conclusions

With the help of the participatory design, important aspects of acceptance could be revealed by the people involved in relation to drone-assisted drug delivery. For example, the length of time spent using the technology is an important factor for the intention to use the app. Technology-specific factors such as user-friendliness or curiosity are directly related to the use acceptance of the drone app. Results of this study showed that the more participants perceived their own competence in handling the app, the more they were willing to use the technology and the more they rated the app as usable.