Palakkad District Research Articles

An environmental forensic investigation at a bio-medical waste treatment and disposal facility in Kerala, India

Indian statutes identify twelve different types of biomedical wastes and give the treatment and disposal options for each. Since it is not possible for every generator of biomedical waste to go for their own treatment and disposal facility, the small-scale generators take the service of centralized treatment and disposal facilities available to them on payment. In the state of Kerala in India, where the basic health indicators match those of many developed countries, the centralized biomedical waste treatment facility is run by Indian Medical Association (IMA), Kerala, under the banner IMAGE (IMA Goes Eco-Friendly) at a place called “Kanjikode” in the Palakkad District. The facility receives biomedical waste from around 4500 hospitals across the State and an equal number of medical laboratories. The plant incinerates the incinerable waste and the other kind of waste are disinfected and decontaminated. The residual ash and dried sludge are then moved to the landfill area. Recently, the facility was in the middle of a controversy due to the alleged health hazards it posed to the surrounding population. An environmental forensic investigation was carried out at the site to establish the merits of the allegation. The reported study is a part of the investigation where groundwater was analysed for the presence of heavy metals. As the biomedical waste contain heavy metals like Zn, Pb, Cd, Cr, and Hg, the presence of these were analysed to establish contamination of groundwater by the facility. The study area is bounded by Malampuzha dam and Korayar river. Groundwater contaminant transport modelling was done for a 3430 m × 3960 m area surrounding the waste treatment facility using Visual MODFLOW and MODPATH. Ground water flow direction and particle pathlines were computed to track the movement of contaminants. Groundwater samples were collected from the area shown to be polluted by the model, if metals were discharged by the facility, and also from outside this area. Water samples were collected conforming to the guidelines in the “Pollution Crime Forensic Investigation Manual” published by INTERPOL. The collected water samples were tested for heavy metal concentration using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The water sample analysis showed that the groundwater is not contaminated by heavy metal discharge from the biomedical treatment facility.

Stress and Job Satisfaction among Nurses in Hospitals in Palakkad District – An Evaluation

Stress and Job Satisfaction among Nurses in Hospitals in Palakkad District – An Evaluation

Palakkad District and reason behind its Name

Palakkad, also known as Palghat, is a city and municipality in the state of Kerala in southern India, spread over an area of 26.60 km2 and is the administrative headquarters of the Palakkad District. Palakkad, known for beautiful landscapes, is a district in Kerala. The specialties of this district are examined here.

Transformation of Built form Characteristics in Agraharams

The culture and architecture are two interlinked concepts that help man to evoke uniqueness as an individual and a social being. A person’s or a community’s identity in a particular setting can be expressed through architecture. It is promising to create spaces with differences in spatial organization, street pattern, landscaping features, etc., according to the lifestyles, beliefs, rituals and customs of the inhabitants which finally becomes the identity of that particular place. But what happens to the identity of a place when all the inhabitants are migrants who left their homeland for better education or job opportunities and settled in a location where all social -cultural aspects are poles apart from theirs? This paper explores how the Architecture evokes the identity of the migrant communities in Kalpathy, Palakkad district, Kerala, without affecting the indigenous style of the location and the character of the total setting. This synthesis and metamorphosis of various religions and traditional practices has also been phenomenal in shaping our cities. Over the ages, many of these communities have been successful in maintaining uniformity in their social and Architectural fabric. This paper is intended towards highlighting the above mentioned aspects and how a unique culture gave rise to a new form of settlements known as Agraharams. Today, Agraharams are an epitome of how migrations driven by religious reasons, can shape the society as well as the built fabric of any city.

Effectiveness of a Structured Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Cervical Cancer among Women in Selected Wards of Malampuzha Panchayat at Palakkad District, Kerala

Effectiveness of a Structured Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Cervical Cancer among Women in Selected Wards of Malampuzha Panchayat at Palakkad District, Kerala

Investors behavior in Stock market with special reference to Palakkad District

Investors behavior in Stock market with special reference to Palakkad District

A Study to assess the effectiveness of structured Teaching programme regarding the knowledge on Home Management of selected Minor Illness among mothers of under 10 children in A selected Community in Palakkad District Kerala

A Study to assess the effectiveness of structured Teaching programme regarding the knowledge on Home Management of selected Minor Illness among mothers of under 10 children in A selected Community in Palakkad District Kerala

Comparative Analysis of Scale of Social capital formed in Kollam and Palakkad districts of Kerala as an Impact of a Pilot Extension Project (LEADS)

Lead Farmer Centered Extension Advisory and Delivery Services (LEADS) is a pilot extension project revolving around lead farmer – satellite farmer concept on an Agro Ecological Zone basis within in a district. Presently LEADS Project is being implemented in four districts of Kerala, namely Kollam, Palakkad, Kannur and Wayanad. The present study was conducted in the Kollam and Palakkad districts of Kerala. The study aimed to compare Social capital formed in Kollam and Palakkad districts as an impact of LEADS project. From the study conducted, it was clear that the social capital formed was found to be more in Kollam than in Palakkad district.

Screening the antimicrobial potential of twelve medicinal plants against venereal diseases causing pathogens

The antimicrobial potential of selected ethnomedicinal plants in traditional healers of Silent valley, Palakkad district of Kerala, India against venereal diseases causing pathogens. Twelve medicinal plants and their parts were collected from the various places of Silent Valley, Kerala, India. These plant parts were dried and mixed with different kinds of solvents respectively hexane, chloroform, methanol and water. In this study, six microbial strains were selected, in which five bacterial and a fungal strain. Among the bacterial strains, two strains were gram positive and three strains for gram negative bacteria. Totally, twelve medicinal plant parts mixed with various solvents were treated against the selected pathogenic organisms. Among them, methanolic extract of A. occidentate, C. indica, H. rosa-sinensis and M. oleifera exhibited excellent antibacterial activity than other parts of plants and standard drugs. As well as, methanolic extract of H. rosa-sinensis showed good antifungal activity against C. albicans. While,the least inhibition was noted with aqueous extract of C. indica against S. aureus. The MIC ranges from 0.78μg/ml to 50μg/ml and MBC/MFC 1.52μg/ml to 50μg/ml. The methanolic flower extract of H. rosa-sinensis has showed effective zone of inhibition against all the pathogens, particularly N. gonorrhoeae (30 mm) and C. albicans (26mm), than other extracts and standard drugs. Therefore, we concluded that, flower extract had potential therapeutic activity against venereal diseases. This research will be helpful to discover the new therapeutic drug molecule in Pharmaceutical sectors.

A Study on Factors Influencing Customers to Prefer the Policies of Life Insurance of India in Palakkad District

The policyholders once when they become a part of the LIC feel free about the safety of their wards since it takes care of fixed financial benefits based on the premium and the type of the policy the opted for. The families of the nonpolicyholders meet out uncertainty in many cases. So, there is an attraction towards life insurance and concern and awareness about the industry is also improving. People who care much about them and their families hold life insurance. The tastes and preferences of policyholders not the same. The LIC of India has been introducing variety of policies based on the preferences of the policyholders. It is observed that many policyholders have taken more than one policy based on their job nature and family members interest. It is a clear indication that they are very much interested in utilizing maximum benefits from Insurance companies. Some people give due importance to money value and high returns on their investments. But greater risks are inherent advantages expected from LIC products. The present study emphasis the factors influencing customers to prefer the policies of life insurance of India in Palakkad District.

Cheirostylis parvifolia Lindl. (Orchidaceae): An addition to the flora of Palakkad District, Kerala

Cheirostylis parvifolia Lindl., an orchid species is reported here as addition to the flora of Silent Valley National Park, Palakkad District, Kerala, India. Detailed description and photographs are provided to facilitate accurate identification of the species.

Salinization and Deterioration of Groundwater Quality by Nitrate and Fluoride in the Chittur Block, Palakkad, Kerala

Chittur block represents a mid-land region of Palakkad district, Kerala and the block differs from the rest of the blocks in its climate and availability of groundwater. About 75% of the people depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Results showed that groundwater salinity levels (up to 1,963 mg/L TDS),fluoride (up to 6.3 mg/L) and nitrate (up to 141 mg/L) contents have increased significantly in tandem with the increase in groundwater abstraction. Before human intervention the chemical weathering of gneisses and granites was the main process impinging on the chemical signature of groundwater. The initial chemical equilibrium conditions change with increasing groundwater withdrawal rates and fertilizer input, in a milieu of lower natural groundwater recharge. The appearance of higher levels of bicarbonate, linked to denitrification processes, and the decrease in calcium, due to calcite precipitation, can lead to increased content of sodium and fluoride in groundwater. In this scenario the use of groundwater resources for human consumption and agriculture represents a public health risk if water management actions do not change the trend in water use in the near future. The potential loss of fertile soil by groundwater salinization must also be considered when planning sustainable policies in a region with over dependence on groundwater resources.

Perception of Farmers about a Pilot Extension Project (LEADS) in two Districts of Kerala

Lead Farmer Centered Extension Advisory and Delivery Services (LEADS) is a pilot extension system revolving around Lead farmer – Satellite farmer concept on an Agro Ecological Zone basis within a district. The present study was conducted in the Kollam and Palakkad districts of Kerala state to compare the perception level of the farmers towards LEADS regarding the effectiveness in implementation of LEADS of both districts. From the study conducted, it was clear that the perception of farmers was found to be more in Kollam than in Palakkad district in terms of effectiveness of the extension system.

Fate and distribution of organochlorine insecticides (OCIs) in Palakkad soil, India

Abstract Organochlorine insecticides (OCIs) are considered as one of the cost effective insecticides to provide quick impact on weed and pest control in agricultural application. The present investigation describes the spatio-temporal distribution pattern of OCIs and their concurrent environmental fate in surface soil samples collected from six provinces during monsoon and summer season from Palakkad district, the largest productive sector in the State of Kerala, India. The samples were analyzed to determine the residual levels of persistent OCIs (α-BHC (Cyclohexane), β-BHC, γ-BHC, heptachlor, aldrin, heptachlor epoxide (isomer B), 4,4′-DDE, dieldrin, endrin, 2,4′-DDD, 4,4′-DDD, 2,4′-DDT, 4,4′-DDT, α-endosulfan and β-endosulfan), by gas chromatographic technique using electron capture detector. The revealed results showed that the concentrations of ∑OCIs in soils of Palakkad ranged from non-detection to 150 ng g−1. The analysed samples mainly constitute endrin, followed by 2,4′-DDD, aldrin and γ-BHC. These xenobiotic residues could have resulted from the direct application into the soils and its persistent character in environment. These findings point out that their accumulation in the soil and risk of mobilization into the aquatic system would pose serious health hazards in the biota and in turn in the ecosystem. It was statistically interpreted that the sorption of OCIs in the soil matrix is influenced by the presence of organic matter, pH, temperature and the texture of the soil. The findings highlight the need of periodical monitoring of soil quality in and adjacent to the agricultural zones.

Does stigma predict variability in self-esteem? role of stigma on self-esteem of persons living with HIV/AIDS in India

Background: Persons living with HIV/AIDS experience high stigma, which limits their access to health-care institutions and treatment, thus affect health and mental health. Stigma is expected to decrease self-esteem; however, no strong evidence is established in scientific literature. The association between stigma and self-esteem in HIV/AIDS context is not well studied, especially in India. Aim: We conducted this study to examine the role of stigma for predicting self-esteem in persons living with HIV/AIDS. Methods: Using a cross-sectional research design, we examined stigma and self-esteem in randomly selected 150 persons living with HIV/AIDS in Palakkad District, South India. The stigma was measured using HIV stigma scale while Rosenberg self-esteem scale was used to measure self-esteem. Multivariate linear regression model was used to test the association of stigma dimensions on self-esteem. Results: The persons living with HIV/AIDS experienced high stigma and low self-esteem. The “personalized stigma” was the strongest predictor which significantly reduced self-esteem (β = −0.706; P < 0.001). The independent variables predicted 56% variance on self-esteem. Overall, the model fit was significant at 0.001 level (F = 47.72). Conclusion: The tested model is useful in understanding various aspects of stigma and its potential role in determining self-esteem of persons living with HIV/AIDS in India.

Content Analysis of Facebook use by Farmers in Kerala, India: A Case Study of Trithala Block of Palakkad District, Kerala

The learning environments in agriculture are moving towards the integration of information and communication technology such as social media. Recent years have witnessed an increased interest of using social media in agriculture and this has created a growing phenomenon for the agricultural use of social networking sites such as Facebook, to create, engage, and share information among the farmers. This paper presents a qualitative analysis of the Facebook closed group activities of farmers in Trithala block, Palakkad, Kerala, India. The analysis of data shows four main themes of farmer's farming-related use of Facebook closed group and issues relating to farmer's use of Facebook for agricultural purposes due to its increasing prevalence in the everyday lives of farmers. This paper concludes with two main findings of the realities of farmer's Facebook closed group activity and the role of Facebook in farmer's experience in farming.

Understanding the Poverty and Vulnerability of New and Existing Clients of ESAF Microfinance with Special Reference to Thrissur and Palakkad District, Kerala, India

Understanding the Poverty and Vulnerability of New and Existing Clients of ESAF Microfinance with Special Reference to Thrissur and Palakkad District, Kerala, India

AN ETHNOZOOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF TRADITIONALLY USED ANIMAL-BASED THERAPIES IN ATTAPPADY OF PALAKKAD DISTRICT, KERALA, INDIA.

The present study is an attempt to collect and document the ethnozoological knowledge possessed by the traditional tribal people of Attappady hills of Western Ghats in Palakkad district. The study area consisted of three categories of tribes namely, Irula, Kurumba and Muduga. Irulas contribute the majority followed by Mudugas and Kurumbas respectively. The study involved collection of information regarding the topic from all the three categories of tribes. Informations were collected by direct personal interviews with traditional healers belonging to tribal community. The mentioned animals were identified by their local names and previous studies in ethnozoology and available biodiversity records of regions in and around Attappady which involves Silent Valley National Park. The lack of biodiversity records posed difficulty in identifying the animal mentioned by the healers. The collected data was analyzed mathematically by calculating Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) to know the category of ailment for which more treatment is available, Fidelity level of animal species to identify the most preferred species for zootherapeutics, andInformant Agreement Index (IAR) to determine the agreement between informants for the use of a particular animal species for the treatment of a particular ailment category. ICF value obtained is highest for orthopedic ailments, FL is highest for Varanus bengalensis and Rusa unicolor and IAR is highest for seven species. The reduction in number of animals, lack of efficiency in implementing forest laws and their cultural taboos regarding the interaction with the outside world have resulted in the deterioration of traditional knowledge among the tribal population itself and also, due to legal issues, they have switched over almost completely to floral medicine. Therefore, they have a very little knowledge on the practice of zootherapeutics and ethnozoology.

Investigation of Hepatitis A outbreak in Palakkad district

Background: A study was carried out to investigate an outbreak of viral hepatitis reported by district health authorities from a self-administrative unit, Koppam of Palakkad district in Kerala in the month of November 2016. Methods: An epidemiological investigation was carried out to investigate the outbreak, describe epidemiological features and recommend measures for control. An epidemiological case sheet was prepared, case definition formulated and blood samples were collected to confirm the diagnosis of hepatitis. Environmental samples were collected from wells, soil and tested for hepatitis A virus. Results: 15 blood samples taken from cases of jaundice tested positive for hepatitis A, IgM antibody by ELISA test. More than three fourths 39 (79.6%) of the cases gave a history of having attended the same wedding function prior to the occurrence of symptoms. Attack rate (6.14%) was highest among 15-25 year age group. The water analysis from 3 of the wells in the area showed presence of coliform bacteria. Hepatitis A virus IIIA genotype was isolated from the soil sample of the house of the index case. Consumption of welcome drink was found to be associated significantly with cases than controls (OR 2.77; 95% CI: 1.02-7.52, p&lt;0.05). Conclusions: The hepatitis A (type IIIA) outbreak in Koppam was associated with poor sanitation practices among the people. During a socio-cultural-demographic event like marriage this led to an explosive outbreak. Involving community organizations to generate awareness regarding food sanitation, supported by a system of registration of such events, certification of food handlers can help to prevent future outbreaks.

A STUDY OF AWARENESS ON E-RESOURCES AMONG B.ED STUDENT TEACHERS

The essential of the study is the multiplying unfamiliarity of e-resources due to the let-down of electricity, which is a common problem in Palakkad area. Related other reasons are absence of time to utilize the I.T lab in time. The investigators and students from all disciplines are set to use e-Books in future. In order to build more teachers professional development and to improve the research practise they need in e-journals and e-books. The study aimed to examine the awareness on e-resources among B.Ed student teachers. The investigator adopted survey method to study the awareness on e-resources among B.Ed student teachers. For this study a sample of 200 B.Ed student teachers from three B.Ed training colleges which are situated in and around Palakkad district in Kerala selected by the investigator using simple random sampling technique. The findings reveal that there is no significant difference in the awareness of e-resources and e-resource technology among B.Ed Student Teachers.