Hoa Binh Province Research Articles

8. INSOMNIA AND RELATED FACTORS AMONG THE ELDERLY LIVED IN TAN VINH COMMUNE, LUONG SON DISTRICT, HOA BINH PROVINCE, 2024

Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence of insomnia and its associated factors among the elderly in Tan Vinh, Luong Son District, Hoa Binh Province, in 2024. Subject Methods: A cross-sectional design was conducted in 255 elderly lives in Tan Vinh, Luong Son District, Hoa Binh Province from March to August 2024. Insomnia Severity Index was used to collect the data. Results: 77.3% of participants reported insomnia; among them, 11.6% were classified as severe insomnia. Individuals who were unmarried, divorced, or widowed were found to be 2.9 times more likely to experience insomnia compared to married participants. Additionally, those who consumed stimulants late in the evening faced a staggering 12.1-fold increased risk of insomnia. Furthermore, elderly individuals who napped for more than 30 minutes had a 3.9 times higher likelihood of insomnia compared to those who napped for less than 30 minutes. Conclusion: The study indicated a high prevalence of insomnia among participants that highlight the needs for interventions to improve sleep quality among participants.

Density Relationship of the Assassin Bugs Sycanus falleni Stål and Sycanus croceovittatus Dohrn (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) and Principal Corn Pests (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) in Hoa Binh Province, Vietnam

The group of assassin bugs including the Sycanus falleni and Sycanus croceovittatus species were such potential candidates for biocontrol of key pests (fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, black cutworm Agrotis ypsilon, cotton bollworm Heliothis armigera Hübner, maize caterpillar Mythimna loreyi (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)) on Corn biomass in Hoa Binh Province. Seven species of assassin bugs belonging to the family Reduviidae as S. falleni Stål, S. croceovittatus Dohrn, Coranus spiniscutis Reuter, Coranus fuscipennis Reuter, Polytoxus fuscovittatus (Stål), Endochus nigricornis Stål, Sphedanoletes pubinotum Reuter were recorded on the Corn biomass, of which S. falleni and S. croceovittatus were common. The relationship between the density of the group of assassin bugs and the density species S. falleni, S. croceovittatus had a close relationship with each other (R=0.81, R=0.72 respectively). The relationship between the density of the group of assassin bugs and the density of their prey (4 key pests) on the Corn biomass in the Winter crops and Summer-fall crops were a close relationship with each other (R2= 0.5166, R2= 0.7274 respectively). The relationship between the density of the species S. falleni, S. croceovittatus and the density of their prey (4 key pests) in the Winter crops, and the Summer fall crops were a close relationship with each other (R2 =0.7815, R2 =0.5396 respectively). However, these relationships were not closely related in the Spring-Summer crops and Winter-Spring crops.

Modeling the Distribution of the Ota’s Bent-toed Gecko (Cyrtodactylus otai)

The Ota’s bent-toed gecko (Cyrtodactylus otai) was discovered in isolated karst outcrops of Hang Kia Commune, Mai Chau District, Hoa Binh Province, in 2015 and in Chieng Yen Commune, Van Ho District, Son La Province in 2017, in northwestern Vietnam. This gecko is both an endemic and endangered species of Vietnam, and its known range to date is restricted to a severely fragmented and small regions. Hence, to identify more populations and to better understand the distribution patterns of this cryptic species, we conducted field surveys in surrounding regions of the type localities from 2020 to 2023. We discovered eight new populations for C. otai, and expanded the known range of the species in Van Ho District (Son La Province) and Mai Chau District (Hoa Binh Province). We used species occurrence data from previous studies and our field surveys to model the gecko’s distribution using MaxEnt. The model results showed that the distribution of C. otai may include other nature reserves in surrounding regions, such as Pu Hu and Pu Luong (Thanh Hoa), and Ngoc Son – Ngo Luong (Hoa Binh). Based on the model results, there is a possibility that the Ota’s bent-toed gecko also occur in nearby Lao regions. Therefore, future research and conservation initiatives may focus their efforts in such areas to look for new populations of the Ota’s bent-toed gecko, as well as to assess the distribution, habitat, and ecological patterns of this poorly known reptile.

Effects of Soil Properties on the Accumulation and Bioavailability of Copper in the Orange Growing Soil in Cao Phong, Hoa Binh

This study focuses on investigating the crucial influence of some soil properties on the adsorption capacity and fractions of Cu in the citrus-growing soil in Cao Phong district, Hoa Binh province. Batch experiments were conducted by adding 0, 100, 500, and 1000 mgCu/L to soil samples with different characteristics. In the 100 mgCu/L added experiment, we found the highest Cu adsorption rate (> 93.76%) in soil samples with loamy texture, high pHKCl, %OC, and low nutrients. Conversely, the lowest Cu adsorption rates (78.32-79.23%) were observed in soil samples with lower pH, and higher %OC and nutrient availability. Noting that the total adsorbed Cu has a negative correlation with the amount of Cu added to the soil, gradually decreasing from (78.32-95.67%) to (26.67-34.19%) and the lowest (22.48-28.56%) in soil samples with the added levels of 100, 500, and 1000 mgCu/L, respectively. In soil samples with total Cu > 200 mg/kg, pHKCl 4.79-5.32, and OC 1.34-2.06%, the bioavailable Cu ranged from 2.29-4.29 mg/kg, which is safe for the soil environment and ecosystem, and sufficient as a micronutrient for citrus plants. It is necessary to find the best solutions for managing Cu-polluted soils.

The level of preparedness of the local community for sustainable community tourism development in Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province, Vietnam

Abstract This study aims to assess the community’s readiness for implementing sustainable community tourism development in Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province. Evaluating the community’s readiness for sustainable tourism development is crucial to mitigate potential negative impacts from tourism activities. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research to determine the local community’s level of readiness for sustainable tourism development. The community’s readiness is found to be high in social and cultural aspects, while economic aspects reveal certain challenges. Additionally, the study analyzes various forms of community service provision. Survey results indicate that the local community’s involvement in tourism activities is rather limited, sporadic, and primarily characterized by small-scale, self-initiated endeavors. There is a lack of investment in products and services catering to tourists. These findings pose challenges for the development of sustainable community tourism in Mai Hich commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province.

Aspidistra tenuistyla and A. luteo-rubra (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae), a new tubuliflorous species from northern Vietnam

This study establishes two new species, Aspidistra tenuistyla and A. luteo-rubra (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae). The first one, Aspidistra tenuistyla, is described here as a new species for science. It was discovered in the lowland limestone area of Ba Be National Park (Bac Kan Province). A detailed illustrated description of this species, along with data on its distribution, ecology, and phenology, is provided. According to the criteria of the IUCN Red List, the conservation status of A. tenuistyla is estimated as Near Threatened (NT). Additionally, the species rank is proposed for A. luteo-rubra, the plant regarded earlier as a variety (A. lutea var. luteo-rubra). It was found in the limestone area of Ngoc Son-Ngo Luong Nature Reserve (Hoa Binh Province). Both plants belong to the group of species with narrowly tubular flowers and are most closely related to A. lutea. A detailed, illustrated comparison of A. tenuistyla, A. lutea, and A. luteo-rubra is additionally presented. All these species are endemic to the limestone regions of northern Vietnam.

Community-based Tourism Governance towards Sustainable Development in the Northern Mountainous Region of Vietnam: A Case Study of Hoa Binh Province

Community-based Tourism (CBT) stands as a pivotal approach for sustainable tourism and poverty alleviation in marginalized Northern Vietnamese rural communities. In Hoa Binh province, a region rich in ethnic diversity engaged in CBT, a research gap exists concerning CBT governance. This study addresses this gap by exploring how CBT governance is organized in five villages of Mai Chau and Da Bac district, Hoa Binh province, by identifying relevant actors, institutions, and resources, and how it addresses the challenge of sustainable (tourism) development. To this end, a combination of semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and observation were used. The results showed the complexity of CBT governance in Hoa Binh, and the many different manifestations of CBT in the different villages. The paper also analyzed factors that explain these differences, such as the historical or ethnic composition of the local community, biophysical conditions, community rules, and attributes of external factors. It also presents the complexity of the relationship between the development of CBT and sustainable development challenges.

Building High-tech Agricultural Cooperative Model Aimed at Expanding the Purple Sugarcane Consumption Market in Tan Lac District, Hoa Binh Province

Building High-tech Agricultural Cooperative Model Aimed at Expanding the Purple Sugarcane Consumption Market in Tan Lac District, Hoa Binh Province

Behavioural determinants of adaptation of farmers to climate change in rice cultivation in the mountainous area of Vietnam

Climate change adaptation is one of the essential solutions for sustainable agricultural development in the context of global change. Besides socio-economical drivers, a thorough understanding of the behavioural dimension of climate change adaptation will provide important information for policymakers in promoting adaptation activities and contributing to the improvement of people’s livelihoods. The purpose of this study is to explore the knowledge gaps in understanding behavioural factors that affect adaptive intention in rice cultivation in the mountainous area of Vietnam. This research was carried out through a sociological survey of 254 rice-farming households in Da Bac districts, Hoa Binh province. Based on applying the Extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (E-TPB) and the data analysis using the PLS-SEM model, the research pointed out that the perceived impact of climate change and policy support are the most important determinants that affect the adaptation intention in rice cultivation. The research also discovered that the Extended Theory of Planned Behaviour explained 56.8% of the change in adaptive intention, much more than 11.9% in comparison with the basic TPB theory. The research emphasized the crucial role of policy support and raising awareness of climate change for farmers to promote the implementation of adaptive measures.

Improving Household Income by Growing Medicinal Plants in Hoa Binh Province, Vietnam: A Case Study of Celastrus hindsii

The study focused on surveying and evaluating factors affecting the income of households growing medicinal plants in Hoa Binh province, Vietnam. To ensure the sample size, the expected number of samples was 120 to survey medicinal herb growers in Lac Thuy, Luong Son, Yen Thuy districts, and Hoa Binh City (it was expected that 30 samples were to be collected in each district or city). After screening the survey results, the collected data was reduced to 109 samples that met the requirements for providing all necessary survey information for analysis. These are good signs in the transformation of crop structure in Hoa Binh province, Vietnam. Factors affecting mixed income of farmer households growing medicinal plants include fertilizers and pesticide costs, selling prices, infield transportation, and propaganda – incentives. Therefore, necessary solutions in the coming period to improve household income of farmers growing medicinal plants in Hoa Binh province include: (i) Promoting training, propaganda and encouragement for farmers to grow medicinal herbs; (ii) Investing in upgrading the internal transport system in medicinal herb production areas; and (iii) Strengthening linkages in promoting the consumption of medicinal products. Developing the cultivation of medicinal plants is an effective solution for raising household income in Hoa Binh province, Vietnam.

A new skink of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 (Squamata: Scincidae) from Hoa Binh Province, northern Vietnam

A new species of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 is described from northern Vietnam based on morphological and molecular evidence. Scincella ouboteri sp. nov. is characterized by a combination of the following characters: Size medium (SVL up to 58.6 mm); primary temporals 2; external ear opening present, with 3 or 4 lobules on anterior margin; loreals 2; supralabials 7; infralabials 6 or 7; nuchals in 2–4 pairs; midbody scales in 30–32 rows; dorsal scales smooth, in 6 rows across the back; paravertebral scales 65–73, not widened; ventral scales in 65–71 rows; 10–12 smooth lamellae beneath finger IV and 18–20 beneath toe IV; toes overlapping fingers when limbs adpressed along body; dorsal surface of body and tail bronze-brown with a black vertebral stripe, in width of two dorsal scales, two bright dorsolateral stripes extending from behind the head to middle of tail, a dark stripe running from nostril to eye and extending from posterior margin of eye along upper part of flank and tail. In phylogenetic analyses, the new species and S. ochracea form an independent lineage sister to all other congeners included in the study.

Farmers’ Perceptions on Land Degradation: A Case Study in Vietnam

This study aims to investigate farmers’ perception of land degradation in Vietnam, where land degradation is concerned as one of the nation's most pressing issues. Based on survey data from 826 farmers in three representative regions of Vietnam (including Hoa Binh province in Northern region, Quang Tri province in the Central Coastal region, and Can Tho province in Southern region) conducted in 2017, the study reveals that over 85% of the respondents have observed indications of land degradation on their farms. The farmers' perceptions of land degradation indicators were influenced by regional topography. Inappropriate farming techniques, excessive chemical use, and a lack of knowledge were reported as the major causes of land degradation. Furthermore, the farmers had limited understanding of land degradation as well as the benefits of soil conservation measures. Sustainable land management adopters exhibited their better perception of land degradation and measures for land improvement compared to non-adopters. Therefore, it is crucial to increase the farmers’ perception on land degradation and the advantages of adopting sustainable land management and this should be accomplished through widespread dissemination via mass and local media in the future

Bio-guided isolation of antimicrobial compounds from Cnestis palala

Day khe (Cnestis palala (Lour.) Merr., Connaraceae) has been widely distributed in Hoa Binh province, Vietnam. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the stems of C. palala (10 mg/well) showed antibacterial effects on Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis by agar diffusion method with diameter antibacterial zone values ranged from 8,3 ± 0,4 mm to 12,3 ± 0,4 mm. Maximum antibacterial activity was exhibited by ethanol 96 % extract against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis with MBC values of 5,2 and 41,5 mg/ml, respectively. This study aimed to isolate and evaluate the antimicrobial activity of some bioactive compounds from C. palala stem using bioguided fractionation. Their activities on S. aureus and S. epidermidis have been evaluated. Various chromatographical techniques were applied for isolation and purification. Antimicrobial activity was determined by multi-concentration dilution. Two bioactive compounds 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (protocatechuic) (1) and 2,10-bis(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-3,5-dihydroxy-3,4,9,10-tetrahydro-2H,8H-pyrano[2,3-f]chromen-8-on (cinchonain) (2) were purified and determined structure. Their antimicrobial activities were confirmed using the microdilution method on S. aureus and S. epidermidis. The activity of compound 1 against S. aureus and S. epidermidis: MIC was 128 µg/ml and 16 µg/ml, respectively, and IC50 was 46,78 ± 1,36 µg/ml and 5,67 ± 1,36 µg/ml, respectively. The activity of compound 2 against S. aureus and S. epidermidis: MIC were 128 µg/ml và 16 µg/ml respectively, and IC50 was 43,23 ± 2,45 µg/ml and 6,34 ± 2,45 µg/ml, respectively. These results highlight the ethno-traditional use of Cnestis palala for infections and recommend further developing antimicrobial products.

Chemical composition of the needle and cone essential oils of \(\textit{Pinus fenzeliana}\) (Pinaceae) from Vietnam

The needle and cone essential oils of Pinus fenzeliana Hand-Mazz. (Pinus kwangtungensis Chun & Tsiang) collected in Hang Kia-Pa Co Nature Reserve, Hoa Binh province were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by a combination of GC-FID, GC-MS and NMR (Gas Chromatography/Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis). The oil yields were 0.2% and 0.37% respectively (v/w on dry weight basis). Twenty-seven compounds were detected in both needle and cone oils, accounting for 98.0% and 98.2% of the whole composition, respectively. The main components identified in the needle oil were α-pinene (20.7%), β-pinene (11.3%), d-3-carene (32.2%), limonene (8.0%) and E-β-caryophyllene (7.1%). The cone oil contained mainly α-pinene (19.3%), β-pinene (45.4%), d-3-carene (3.5%), limonene (12.7%) and E-β-caryophyllene (3.4%). This is the first report on the chemical composition of the cone essential oil of P. fenzeliana from Vietnam.

Runoff and erosion from three unpaved road segments in northern Vietnam

Study regionTruong Son Commune, Luong Son District, Hoa Binh Province in north Vietnam. Study focusRunoff and erosion from three road surface and three adjacent cutslope plots in a young plantation forest to evaluate how unpaved forest roads affect runoff and erosion. New hydrologic insights for the regionThe 10-m long road surface plots generated similar amounts of runoff with runoff coefficients of 24–32 % over 24 rainstorms divided into an initial wetter period followed by a relatively drier period. Runoff coefficients for the two monitoring periods were not statistically different, and the relatively low runoff coefficients compared to previous studies were due to infiltration outside the narrow compacted tracks created primarily by motorbike traffic. Runoff from the base of the cutslopes varied by a factor of three, associated with the topographic convergence of the hillslopes. Road surface erosion over the two monitoring periods was consistent among the three plots and storm-based sediment production was strongly correlated with both storm precipitation and surface runoff. The amounts of runoff and sediment collected at the base of the cutslopes increased with increasing hillslope convergence, and the mass of collected sediment was 52–97 % of the corresponding amounts from the road surface plots. The results provide data on the extent of unpaved road runoff and erosion in this seasonally wet tropical environment, and the need to consider topographic convergence in road design and drainage.

<i>CAMELLIA HOABINHENSIS</i> (THEACEAE: SECT. <i>CHRYSANTHA</i>), A NEW YELLOW-FLOWERED SPECIES FROM NORTHERN VIETNAM

A new species, Camellia hoabinhensis (section Chrysantha, Theaceae), is described and illustrated based on specimens collected from a lowland forest on limestone hills in Hoa Binh Province, northern Vietnam. The species is characterized by its small habit to 4.5 m tall, large flowers 9.0–9.5 cm in diameter with 18–19 light yellow petals, and hairy filaments, ovaries, and styles. A comparison of the new species with similar species, C. euphlebia, C. impressinervis, C. phanii, and C. velutina, is provided. The IUCN conservation status of the proposed species is Data Deficient (DD).

Developing Tourism in Hoa Binh Province in the Context of International Economic Integration

According to a report from the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in the first 6 months of 2023, the total number of tourists coming to Hoa Binh is about 2,360,000, increasing by 28.8% compared to the same period last year, reaching 67.4% of the year plan. Of which, there were 240,000 international visitors, an increase of 336% compared to the same period last year, reaching 53.3% of the year's plan; 2,120,000 domestic visitors, an increase of 19.3% compared to the same period last year, reaching 69.5% of the year's plan. Total revenue from tourists reached 2,300 billion VND, an increase of 16.2% compared to the same period last year, reaching 59% of the year plan. The above impressive recovery results after the COVID-19 pandemic are thanks to the province's tourism industry having synchronously deployed many groups of tasks and solutions to develop destinations, building tours, and attractive tourism product groups and organize a variety of activities to attract the attention of domestic and foreign tourists, creating a premise for tourism to recover and maintain operations in the last months of the year and the following years. The article focuses on analyzing and evaluating the current status of Hoa Binh tourism development in the period 2018 - 2022 and proposes some solutions to promote the development of the province's tourism industry in the context of international economic integration.

Enhancing Agricultural Enterprise Development in Hoa Binh Province- Vietnam: Challenges and Policy Considerations

This article delves into the advancement of agricultural enterprise development within Hoa Binh Province, Vietnam, shedding light on the challenges encountered and proposing pertinent policy considerations. The geographical and topographical advantages of Hoa Binh Province for agricultural activities are highlighted, yet the complex terrain and varying climatic conditions pose challenges to enterprises. The inadequacy of water resources, susceptibility to natural disasters, and limited access to suitable production areas impede progress. In this context, policy solutions are explored, focusing on the support mechanisms offered to small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises. The study elucidates the existing policies that promote infrastructure investment, technology adoption, market access, and financial assistance. However, challenges remain in policy implementation, including regulatory complexities, resource limitations, and insufficient incentives to attract investments. Drawing from empirical data and policy analysis, this article underscores the need for streamlined policies that address challenges comprehensively and foster the sustainable growth of agricultural enterprises in Hoa Binh Province.

SUSCEPTIBILITY OF TWO STRAINS OF BEDBUGS TO DELTAMETHRIN AND LABORATORY EVALUATION OF PESGUARD FG161 EFFICACY AGAINST CIMEX LECTULARIUS

The aim of the study conducted from April to December 2022 was to assess theeffectiveness of Pesguard FG161, a commercial insecticide formulation from SumitomoChemical Co., Ltd, against field bed bugs. This emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulationcombines two active ingredients, D-Tetramethrin and Cyphenothrin, and is recommendedfor indoor residual spraying. Populations of the bed bug Cimex lectularius collected inTrung Van commune, Nam Tu Liem district (Trung Van strain), Ha Noi, and in ThinhLang commune, Hoa Binh district, Hoa Binh province (Thinh Lang strain) were evaluatedusing the surface contact method. Exposure time was 4 hours, and the mortality of bedbugs in contact with the treated panel was recorded on a daily basis for up to 4 days, andthe residual bioefficacy of the product was evaluated after one day, seven days, and thirtydays of spraying. According to the study, Pesguard FG161 can effectively control fieldbed bugs, as evidenced by its high success rate in killing them (mortality were 100%)

Using GA-ANFIS machine learning model for forecasting the load bearing capacity of driven piles

This paper is aimed to apply hybrid machine learning model namely GA-ANFIS, which is a combination of Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and Genetic Algorithm (GA), for the prediction of total bearing capability of driven piles. A database of 95 Pile Driving Analyzer (PDA) tests carried out at the win power project in Hoa Binh province, Vietnam was used to develop hybrid model. The database was split into 70:30 ratio for training (70%) and validating (30%) model. Accuracy of the model was evaluated using statistical standard indicators: Coefficient of determination (R2), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and Root mean squared error (RMSE). Results indicated that the GA-ANFIS model has a good performance in correct prediction of the total bearding capability of driven piles on both training (R2 = 0.976) and testing (R2 =0.925) datasets. Therefore, the GA-ANFIS hybrid model is a promising tool for quick and accurate prediction of the total bearing capability of driven piles for the consideration in design and construction of the structures.