Inadequate Practices Research Articles

Biophysics indicators as the sustainable strategy for river pollution control (case study in Jangkok River, Mataram City, West Nusa Tenggara)

Background: Sungai Jangkok is one of those considered heavily polluted in NTB. The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) value has exceeded the standard for Class II water quality, and according to the Family Biotic Index (FBI) value, the river falls under the category of heavy organic pollution. The research objective is to realize sustainable management of the Jangkok Watershed in accordance with its river functions by implementing pollution control strategies. Methods: Data collection was conducted using questionnaires and interviews with the public and stakeholders (government and NGOs). Water quality data was obtained from DLHK NTB and DLH Mataram City, and sampling was carried out using the composite sample technique. The methods employed were STORET, QUAL2Kw, logistic regression, and SWOT. Findings: The research findings indicate that, in general, the Jangkok River in Mataram City falls into the heavily polluted category from 2015 to 2022, with an average STORET score of -79.25. Moreover, the pollution loads of BOD, COD, and TSS entering the river have exceeded the pollution carrying capacity. The condition is influenced by several factors, including the less favorable perception of pollution status (67%) and the usefulness of the river (59%) by the community. Additionally, the persistent behavior of littering and/or defecating in the river (23%), inadequate preventive practices (59%), insufficient wastewater disposal facilities (40%), and improper waste management (58%) are contributing factors. Moreover, the existence of houses backing up to the river (59%) also plays a role in the current condition. Some of the causes are the lack of synergy across administrative regions between stakeholders, the absence of law enforcement for the community, dependency on government budget for work programs, and the lack of incentives. Conclusion: The conclusion of this research suggests that the most effective strategy for taking is to develop a program for reducing pollutant loads that is integrated across districts and cities, integrated across agencies with various levels of authority, integrated with the community, and in accordance with the river's actual conditions and the socioeconomic community. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study provides a novel approach by integrating quantitative water quality modeling (QUAL2Kw) with community behavior analysis to develop a sustainable and comprehensive strategy for controlling river pollution in the Jangkok watershed, Mataram City.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Protein Energy Malnutrition among Pre School Children in Rural Areas

Children, particularly those in rural areas, are among the most vulnerable to malnutrition, a silent emergency recognized by organizations such as the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). This study delves into the complexities of undernutrition, specifically Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM), among pre-school children aged 3-6 years in rural regions. The research aims to estimate the prevalence of PEM, identify associated factors, and analyze various feeding practices contributing to malnutrition. Data collection was conducted through survey methods, encompassing 3-6-year-old children, revealing alarming statistics. Findings from 20 article papers underscored that 27.96% of pre-school children were underweight, with 6.71% severely underweight. Notably, 42.78% of children lacking energy-dense foods, as per Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), experienced malnutrition. Additionally, more than one-third of children suffered from underweight due to PEM. The study highlights the elevated risk of malnutrition among children with low birth weights, shorter interpregnancy intervals, higher birth orders, and inadequate breastfeeding and immunization practices. These insights underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to address the multifaceted challenges contributing to PEM among rural pre-school children.

Inadequate food safety knowledge and hygiene practices among street food vendors in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Food safety remains a critical issue with outbreaks of foodborne illness. The knowledge gap of food safety and improper hygienic practices of food handlers are the key factors for the transmission of foodborne diseases. This study was conducted to investigate the level of food safety knowledge and practices among street food vendors in Dhaka City, Bangladesh, and its implications on consumers’ health. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 respondents in seven areas of Dhaka City. Trained data collectors gather data by interviewing street vendors using a pretested questionnaire. Most of the vendors (98%) were male, with 48% having secondary education and 85% having no food safety training. Although about 89% of the vendors were found to practice hand washing, only a small proportion of them practised using hand gloves while handling raw products (5.6%), cleaning tables (2.2%), preparing foods (1.3%) or handling garbage (0.9%). The education level of the vendors and their work experience were significantly correlated with their hand washing practice, wearing hand gloves and their knowledge about food-borne illnesses. The study demonstrated that formal education played a significant role in vendors’ knowledge and practice of health safety measures for food handlers to prevent foodborne illness. Effective food safety training and monitoring are needed to increase vendors' knowledge and practices, and in reducing foodborne diseases.

A Descriptive Analysis of Electronic Waste Management among Electronic Repair Vendors in Mwanza City, Tanzania

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a rapidly growing global problem, with Africa generating 2.9 million metric tons of e-waste in 2019. In Tanzania, Mwanza faces a significant amount of e-waste and poor management of e-waste collection and disposal. This study conducted a descriptive analysis of e-waste management practices among electronic repair vendors in Mwanza City, Tanzania. The objective was to describe their current e-waste management practices, identify challenges, and highlight areas for improvement. The lack of awareness and inadequate practices among electronic repair vendors hinder effective e-waste management, contributing to the environmental and health risks associated with the improper disposal of hazardous materials. A literature review revealed the importance of stakeholder engagement, improved awareness, and sustainable e-waste management practices in various African countries. This study employed a descriptive research design, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods. Data will be collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations targeting a sample of electronic repair vendors in Mwanza City. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings indicate that using e-waste as a spare part of other products and selling non-repairable e-waste to third parties are current e-waste management practices. Moreover, e-repair vendors have been found to contribute to e-waste management, particularly repair, collection, and storage. Based on these findings, the study recommends that an e-waste awareness campaign be instituted in the e-repair industry, that e-waste management be undertaken sustainably to combat unnecessary disposal, and that the deposition of e-waste and e-waste collection equipment(s) be provided to e-repair vendors for proper e-waste collection and management. Also, there is a need to conduct further studies to assess strategies used by local authorities to support e-repair vendors in e-waste management.

Investigating the Adoption of Green Logistics Practices on Operational Sustainability in Fast-Moving Customer Goods in Lagos State, Nigeria

Statement of Problem: There is a growing debate on sustainability challenges among fast-moving consumer goods firms (FMCG). FMCG firms value efficiency and sustainability. Research shows that FMCG firms are unsustainable owing to inadequate green logistics practices. Many studies focused on non-FMCG companies and industrialised countries, not emerging ones. Methodology: The green logistics and operational sustainability of chosen FMCG firms in Lagos State, Nigeria, were examined. The study was survey-based. The study included 13,782 managers from eight publicly listed FMCG businesses in Lagos State, Nigeria. The Taro Yamane formula determined the 519 sample size. Basic random sampling was utilised. The questionnaire was standardised and validated. Constructs' Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients ranged from 0.78 to 0.94. The response rate was 96.7%. The data were examined using descriptive and inferential statistics, including multiple and hierarchical regression. Findings: The findings revealed that green logistics practices had significant effect on the operational sustainability of selected FMCG firms in Lagos State, Nigeria (Adj.R2 = 0.02, F(5, 496) = 3.31, p < 0.05). The study concluded that green logistics practices promote operational sustainability of selected FMCG firms in Lagos State, Nigeria. Recommendations and Contribution to Knowledge: FMCG enterprises in Lagos State, Nigeria can integrate green logistics techniques into their sustainability plan to improve long-term sustainability. The research suggests that green logistics techniques may considerably enhance operational sustainability, making them essential to a firm's sustainability strategies.

The Impact of Human Resource Management on Awareness Employee and Organization

The study aims to investigate the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) on employee awareness and organizational capacity within the Afghanistan International Bank (AIB). A positive workplace culture, characterized by clear and accurate communication, is essential for employees to perform their duties effectively. Misunderstandings and inefficiencies often arise from unclear communication and inadequate HRM practices. The primary research question guiding this study is: "What is the impact of HRM on employees' awareness and organizational capacity at AIB?" Sub-questions include: "How does HRM influence employee productivity?" and "What is the effect of HRM on employee efficiency?" The hypotheses posit that HRM positively impacts employee awareness, organizational capacity, productivity, and efficiency. Methodologically, the study employs both primary and secondary data collection techniques. Primary data were gathered through the distribution of 50 questionnaires to AIB employees in Kabul, utilizing a Likert scale to measure responses. Secondary data were sourced from related articles, electronic websites, journals, and research reports. Random sampling techniques were used to select participants who were properly briefed on completing the questionnaires. The findings indicate that HRM significantly enhances employee productivity, awareness, and organizational capacity at AIB. Additionally, HRM improves daily operational efficiency, customer service quality, and the effectiveness of information systems. By addressing previous organizational challenges, HRM enables employees to maximize the benefits from increased awareness and capacity, ultimately contributing to the bank's overall performance.

Food Safety Awareness and Practices among Adult Women and Its Association with Acute Diarrheal Disease in their Household in a Rural Area of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Background: Food safety is a paramount concern in today's world, given its critical implications for public health. Contaminated food can lead to severe illnesses and outbreaks, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Therefore, the study was conducted to assess the level of food safety awareness and attitude among adult women.Subjects and Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural field practice area of PSG Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Coimbatore from December 2019 to May 2020. A total of 400 participants were selected using systematic random sampling. A pretested, validated study questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data analysis is done by the estimation of disease risk associated with exposure and calculating the p<0.050 proving the statistical association between exposure status and disease occurrence.Results: Half of them (50%) had adequate knowledge regarding food safety practices and 60% adequately practiced them. Washing hands after using the toilet was practiced by 80.8%. washing hands before eating food was practiced by 74.3%. Rat and fly menace were present in 20.5% and 23.3% respectively. Acute Diarrheal Disease was present in 19.3% of households. The presence of acute diarrhoeal disease (ADD) was found to be significantly higher in those who were not washing their hands after using the toilet, presence of flies and rats in the kitchen, and having inadequate knowledge and practices regarding food safety.Conclusion: Though half of the women demonstrated awareness of food safety principles, the study revealed that actual implementation of safe practices remains inadequate. The association of diarrheal diseases with poor handwashing habits, as well as the presence of pests in the kitchen, emphasizes the critical need for targeted interventions to address these issues

Childhood visual impairment causes and barriers to accessing eye care: A suggested approach for Africa.

Childhood vision impairment (VI) has a significantly harmful effect on both health and social outcomes. To assess the causes of childhood VI, to determine obstacles to accessing eye care services and to develop a strategy for the childhood eye care system in African nations. This systematic review was conducted by searching several online databases, including; Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Ebsco and Medline. They focussed on articles available between 2003 and 2023. These studies were conducted to evaluate the causes of childhood VI and to assess obstacles to accessing eye care services in African countries. The main causes of childhood VI in African nations can be avoided with timely diagnosis and an appropriate management strategy. The leading obstacles to accessing childhood eye care services were a lack of availability, accessibility and affordability. In addition to these barriers, we found that there are concerns with quality of services, primary health care system, geographic barriers, incorrect health beliefs, inappropriate parental perception, a lack of knowledge, attitudes and inadequate practices related to paediatric eye care. The main causes of childhood VI were uncorrected refractive error (RE), amblyopia, cataract and corneal opacities that can be avoided with timely diagnosis and an appropriate management strategy. While the main obstacles to accessing childhood eye care services were a lack of availability, accessibility, affordability and healthcare system.Contribution:The recommended strategy for childhood eye-care services includes models for delivery and training.

Trends in Complementary Feeding Indicators in Children Aged 6-23 Months According to Participation in a Conditional Cash Transfer Program: Data from the Brazilian Food and Nutrition Surveillance System, 2015-2019.

Inadequate practices during complementary feeding are associated with malnutrition, especially in children experiencing vulnerable conditions and social inequality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the trends in complementary feeding indicators (CFIs) according to participation in a Brazilian cash transferu program-the Bolsa Família Program (BFP). This was a time-series study with secondary data from 600,138 children assisted from 2015 to 2019 and registered within the Brazilian Food and Nutrition Surveillance System. The CFIs assessed were food introduction, minimum meal frequency and appropriate consistency, minimum dietary diversity, iron-rich food, vitamin A-rich food, ultra-processed food consumption, and zero vegetable or fruit consumption. Prevalence and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for the CFIs according to BFP, the region of residence, and the child's age. The Prais-Winsten regression method was used to analyze the temporal trend. There was a steady trend for all CFIs of a healthy diet. A decrease in ultra-processed food consumption for both BFP (-10.02%) and non-BFP children (-9.34%) was observed over the years. Children residing in the North and Northeast regions and those enrolled in the BFP were more distant from the recommended feeding practices when compared to the other regions and non-BFP children. The results highlight the relevance of nutritional surveillance and the need to improve food and nutrition public policies for children aged 6-23 months, particularly for those experiencing greater social vulnerability.

The Influence of Feeding Practice on the Risk of Stunting in Toddler: A Scoping Review

Child stunting is a serious case that is difficult to overcome because it is caused by poor food quality and the amount of food that does not meet the body's needs during the first two years of life. The purpose of this study is to review the influence of feeding practices and feeding methods on the risk of stunting in children under five. PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines are used to identify key concepts and knowledge gaps. This scoping review used a five-step framework approach. The databases used were PubMed, Wiley Online Library, ScienceDirect, and EBSCO. Manual searches used the Research Rabbit search engine. Based on the search results of 979 articles, ten articles were found that matched the inclusion criteria. Out of the seven themes found, four were in line with WHO's complementary feeding indicators, namely Minimum Meal Frequency (MMF), Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD), Minimum Acceptable Diet (MAD), and Introduction of Solid, Semi-Solid or Soft Foods (ISSSF). While the other three themes are a time of first feeding, breastfeeding practices, and feeding methods. Overall, inadequate feeding practices result in child malnutrition, including stunting. Improper nutrition and care during the first 1000 days of birth is detrimental to a child's life, both in the short and long term as malnutrition that occurs at this early stage of life has serious and irreversible consequences. Large-scale studies are recommended to explore the role of IYCF in reducing stunting and qualitative studies to determine barriers and drivers to improve infant and young child feeding practices.

Intelligent system based on a satellite image detection algorithm and a fuzzy model for evaluating sugarcane crop quality by predicting uncertain climatic parameters

The increase in uncertain weather affects agriculture, impacting crop yield and quality, mainly due to the interaction of climatic variables such as temperature, wind speed, and humidity. In addition, soil erosion and nutrient loss are regional problems aggravated by inadequate agricultural practices in developing sugarcane agriculture. The present research proposes an Intelligent System based on a detection algorithm and a fuzzy model to estimate the quality of the sugarcane crop and the probability of the presence of pests and diseases through the prediction of uncertain variables. Wind speed, cloudiness, humidity, and thermal amplitude were considered variables of interest because parameters out of control of these variables generate a state of thermal stress, triggering pests and diseases that reduce crop quality and sugar production. This research uses geospatial information to simplify the exchange of information through a detection algorithm using real-time satellite images and a fuzzy model to estimate crop quality and prevent climate change-related problems. The variables humidity and cloudiness determine sugarcane quality as they are related to crop phenology and the probability that the crop will develop pests and diseases. In contrast, the intelligent system showed a correlation of over 93% for predicting the variables of interest.

Determination of microbial contamination in raw milk, processed milk and yoghurt consumed in Mbarara city, western part of Uganda

he microbial composition of milk serves as a key indicator of its quality. While its nutritional value is significant, the inherent nature of milk also makes it an ideal environment for the proliferation of microorganisms, some of which lead to human illnesses, while others contribute to the spoilage of milk, making it unsafe for consumption. This research therefore aimed to assess the bacterial contamination content in raw milk, UHT and yoghurt, a total of 36 samples were gathered from various retailers, markets and supermarkets across Mbarara city. Contaminated milk and its products are accountable for human dairy related illnesses. This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess micro bacterial contamination and the presence of selected milk-borne zoonotic pathogens. The study involved 36 samples of milk and milk products mainly raw milk, UHT, or processed milk and yoghurt. Laboratory analysis conducted included Total Plate Count (TPC), Yeasts and molds (YM), staphylococcus, salmonella and coliform, as well as detection of Escherichia coli (E coli), biochemical tests including gram staining were employed to isolate and identify bacteria in these samples. The findings indicated the presence of these types of bacteria in raw milk, Staphylococcus spp (25%), Salmonella spp (33.3%), YM (41.6%), TPC (50%), coliforms (33.3%) and E.coli (25%), for UHT milk the percentage was Staphylococcus spp (0%), Salmonella spp (16.6%), YM (8.3%), TPC(16.6%), coliforms (16.6%) and E.coli (8.3%), finally for yoghurt the results were Staphylococcus spp (8.3%), Salmonella spp (8.3%), YM (16.6%), TPC (25%), coliforms (16.6%) and E.coli (0%). In conclusion, the detection of microbial contamination in raw milk and milk products suggests inadequate sanitary practices and poor storage practices. Products that are contaminated by these pathogenic organisms when consumed may result in food poisoning and a proper awareness among the stakeholders and consumers regarding possible outcomes of consuming contaminated food items is necessary. keywords: Milk, Yoghurt, Food poisoning, Microorganisms, Contamination

‘Already doing the work’: social work, abolition and building the future from the present

Social work internationally is currently subject to debate. Some call for the abolition of social work, detailing legacies of harm, inadequate practices and theoretical limitations. Central to abolitionist thought is the tradition of community work to build alternative futures in the present, an area currently receiving less attention. This article adopts an auto-ethnographic method, drawing on the authors’ experiences of social work in the UK – in childhood and as a professional career, respectively – to consider the limitations of social work responses to childhood harm, alongside existing community harm-reduction practices. Four themes are identified that capture the limitations of social work intervention, as well as acts of community care and resistance. These are: the extent of engagement with context and community knowledge; resources for caring; legacies of harm; and the role of social work in relation to community harm-reduction work. Implications for research methods and social work practice are discussed.

Oral Hygiene Practice of Geriatric Patients Attending Outpatient Department of a Tertiary Dental Hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu: A Descriptive Study

Abstract Background: Increasing disease burden will elevate public health expenditures having an impact on the economy. Literatures confirm a low utilization rate of dental services and a high oral health disease burden among elders which is regarded as a heterogeneous population in India. There is long term existence of high prevalence of oral diseases. Oral health educational intervention is the most cost effective method as it has a positive impact on the oral hygiene status to prevent oral diseases. Successful oral health educational interventions need planning which requires information regarding oral hygiene practices of the population so that appropriate information education and communication content with mention about the pros and cons of the aids which are professionally recommended and those commonly used respectively could be developed to enhance oral health promotion. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to learn the oral hygiene practices among geriatric dental patients in Chennai. Materials and Methods: An interview was conducted for 250 consented patients aged ≥60 years selected on a convenient sampling technique. Results: The results were analyzed using frequencies from the coded data. Conclusion: Majority of the geriatric dental patients were found to be practicing insufficient oral hygiene with aids which are usually not professionally recommended. The reported dental problems of the elders could be attributed to inadequate and improper oral hygiene practices which necessitate transition in the oral health attitude as the need of the hour strategy through urgent comprehensive oral care educational interventions.

Managing Postharvest Losses of Vegetables and Fruits: A Methodological Review.

Vegetables and fruits are highly perishable agricultural commodities cultivated all over the world. However, inadequate handling practices have led to significant postharvest losses of these agricultural commodities, as well as the wastage of valuable resources, such as time and money. Hence, it can be observed that cultivators often experience significant financial setbacks as a result of inadequate comprehension regarding the nature and origins of these losses, insufficient preservation practices, and ineffective approaches to transportation and marketing. In addition, the utilization of suitable chemical agents during both the pre- and postharvest phases has the potential to prolong the shelf life of agricultural products. This preservation technique safeguards vegetables and fruits from pathogenic organisms and other forms of environmental harm, thereby enabling their availability for an extended duration. Therefore, this review proposes a methodology for managing fruits and vegetables postharvest to minimize losses and optimize returns.

Ensuring Food Safety among Food and Agricultural Nonprofit Organizations: A Review of Literature about Challenges and Opportunities

Food and agricultural nonprofit organizations (FANOs) are a critical part of the food supply chain, requiring evaluation of their food safety assurance within the production, preparation, and distribution of food. This article provides an overview of literature and policy surrounding food safety in nonprofit organizations, particularly FANOs, and proposes opportunities and challenges in FANO research. It addresses the prevalent risks of foodborne illnesses associated with FANOs with poor food safety practices. Three specific problem areas that need to be better addressed in FANO research were revealed. First, poor food safety practices in FANOs can lead to food loss and waste. Second, inadequate food safety behaviors and practices among volunteers are a unique issue that FANOs face due to high volunteer turnover and reduced training time. And third, there is a large disparity between who is regulating and enforcing food safety in FANOs. Potential research questions and methodological limitations of conducting research on each problem area are proposed.

Isolation and Identification of Pathogenic Bacteria in Pasteurized Powdered Milk Sold in Ogun, Lagos and Oyo, Southwest, Nigeria

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study provides novel insights into the bacteriological quality of powdered milk sold in Ogun, Lagos, and Oyo, Southwest Nigeria, by isolating and identifying bacterial species through 16S rRNA gene sequencing and evaluating their antibiotic resistance profiles. The research highlights the detection of potentially harmful bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus cereus, indicating issues related to inadequate storage or sanitation practices in the milk supply chain. These findings underscore the importance of rigorous microbial monitoring and improved hygiene standards to ensure the safety and extended shelf life of powdered milk products. Full Abstract Milk is a nutritious beverage enjoyed by people of all ages, but it also provides an ideal environment for the growth of various microorganisms. This study aimed to isolate and identify the bacteriological quality of powdered milk sold in Ogun, Lagos, and Oyo, Southwest Nigeria. Three samples from each of five different brands were analyzed by homogenizing 1g of each milk sample with 10ml of nutritional broth, followed by overnight incubation at 37°C. Subsequently, the bacteria were plated on nutrient agar, Mac-Conkey, and EMB, with further characterization through partial sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. The detected species were then evaluated against antibiotics including Acyclovir, Cefotaxime, Augmentin, Cefuroxime, Gentamicin, Erythromycin, Ofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin, Ciprofloxacin, Nalidixic acid, and Azithromycin. The molecular testing revealed the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Brevibacillus agri, Lysinibacillus sphaericus, and Bacillus thuringiensis as the identified bacterial species. Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited sensitivity to Gentamicin and Cefuroxime, with Nitrofurantoin showing the highest sensitivity at 80.0%. Brevibacillus agri (LATC3) demonstrated sensitivity to Cefuroxime and Gentamicin, with a higher sensitivity of 55.00% to Gentamicin. Bacillus cereus (LAKG2 and LAC2) showed higher responsiveness to Ceftriaxone compared to Ofloxacin, Cefotaxime, Augmentin, Acyclovir, and Levofloxacin. These findings indicate the presence of potentially harmful organisms in the microbial populations of pasteurized milk, suggesting inadequate storage practices or insufficient sanitation of facilities and equipment post-production and packaging. Therefore, monitoring the microbial quality of pasteurized milk is essential to ensure safety and extend its shelf life.

Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria

The study investigates the nutrition practices, health status, and quality of life of elderly individuals in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. It involves a descriptive cross-sectional design with 346 elderly participants aged 60-90, systematically sampled from six rural communities. Data were collected via structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires on demographics, medical and lifestyle histories, daily activities, health-seeking behaviors, food consumption, and nutritional care practices. Nutritional status and high blood pressure were assessed using anthropometric indices and a digital sphygmomanometer. Key findings indicate that 37.6% of participants were aged 60-64. Significant differences were noted between sexes in socio-demographic variables. Alcohol consumption, tobacco sniffing, and cigarette smoking were reported by 15.3%, 11.0%, and 4.6% respectively. Additionally, 23.1% were on hypertensive drugs and 20.1% were confirmed diabetics. Meal frequency varied, with 16.5% eating less than three times daily and 59.2% eating three times daily. Lunch (58.0%) and breakfast (36.6%) were the most skipped meals, and 15% ate outside the home. Dietary diversity scores revealed 66.5% with medium and 27.5% with good diversity. Significant gender differences were observed in dietary diversity and consumption patterns of cereals, roots, tubers, and fruits. Nutritional care practices and daily living activities scores showed 90.2% and 80.6% with fair practices and good activity scores, respectively, while 46.2% demonstrated good health-seeking behavior. Common health complaints included body and joint pain. Central obesity rates were 33.8% (WC), 30.3% (WHtR), and 30.6% (WHR). Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure were found in 36.7% and 23% of participants, respectively. Only 31.2% reported a good quality of life. Significant positive correlations were found between nutritional status, quality of life, nutritional care practices, and functionality. Malnutrition, poor quality of life, and inadequate care practices among the elderly in rural areas highlight a public health challenge requiring targeted interventions.

Assessment of Microplastic Pollution Across the Malabar Coast, India

ABSTRACTRecent scientific investigations have highlighted concerning levels of microplastic contamination in marine ecosystems, posing significant risks to marine organisms and human populations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of microplastics in water, sediment, and tissues of commercially important fish species along the Malabar coast in Northwest Kerala, India. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), six predominant polymer types were identified, including HDPE, PET, and nylon. The investigation revealed notable abundances of transparent microplastic particles, measuring <1 mm in diameter, particularly in gastrointestinal and gill tissues, with gastrointestinal tissues exhibiting the highest concentration of microplastics. A diverse array of morphotypes, including fragments (48.08%), fibers (28.84%), filaments (19.23%), and granules (3.85%), were observed within the coastal zone. The study implicates various sources of contamination, such as direct discharges, runoff, and inadequate wastewater management practices, contributing to the substantial presence of microplastics in coastal environments. In light of these findings, the study emphasizes the urgent need for the implementation of effective regulatory measures to mitigate plastic pollution in marine ecosystems. These results underscore the critical importance of proactive intervention to safeguard the health of marine ecosystems and human populations in coastal regions.

Women's Socioeconomic Status and Needs Assessment for Women's Associations in a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area

This study examined the socioeconomic status of Filipino women in Digkilaan, Iligan City, Philippines, and their participation in community-based women's associations. The research sought to fill the gap in the existing literature by exploring the socioeconomic aspects of women in the locality, which is considered a Geographically- Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA) and identified as one of the depressed communities in Iligan City, Philippines. Data were collected from 101 women respondents who are actively participating in their women's association and 15 association leaders across various districts of Digkilaan, ensuring comprehensive representation. Based on the findings, the prevalence of poverty is evident, as approximately 80% of women are living below the poverty threshold. When it comes to financial behavior, these women demonstrate limited knowledge of financial matters, lack access to basic sanitation, and the majority are vulnerable to natural disasters. As highlighted in the training needs assessment, the women expressed a strong interest in learning handicraft skills for income generation. The challenges identified within women's associations include inadequate management practices, limited understanding of financial statements, and a general lack of commitment among members. The study recommends implementing programs on financial literacy and skills training in order to empower women in the community. It will not only foster economic growth but also enhance their quality of life.