Systematic Technique Research Articles

Effects of Gas Flaring On Air and Groundwater Quality in Ebedei and Ashaka, Located in Ukwuani, Delta State, Nigeria

This research examines the effects of gas flaring on air and groundwater quality in Ebedei and Ashaka, located in Ukwuani, Delta State, Nigeria. Data on air pollutants, including sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and carbon dioxide (CO₂), as well as groundwater quality parameters, were collected during both the wet and dry seasons through systematic sampling techniques. The findings indicate that levels of SO₂ and NO₂ exceeded the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO), posing significant threats to air quality and public health. Conversely, CO₂ concentrations remained within acceptable ranges. Groundwater analysis revealed slightly acidic pH levels, elevated biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and high concentrations of iron, lead, and phosphates, all surpassing WHO standards and pointing to contamination caused by industrial emissions and acid rain. Statistical analyses demonstrated strong links between SO₂ and NO₂ emissions and groundwater quality, highlighting their harmful effects. Seasonal differences in pollutant levels were minor, suggesting that human activities are the primary source of pollution. The study emphasizes the urgent need for stricter environmental policies, effective pollution control measures, and ongoing monitoring to protect local communities and ecosystems.

High-risk fertility behavior and associated factors among mothers attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Hossana Town, Central Ethiopia Region: facility based cross sectional study

BackgroundHigh-risk fertility behavior (HRFB) is a serious public health issue that may influence the country’s economic development as well as the health status of mothers mainly in developing countries, like Ethiopia.However, there is a scarcity of evidence about HRFB and associated factors in the study area. Therefore, this study assessed HRFB and associated factors among mothers attending antenatal care in public health facilities in Hossana town, Hadiya zone, Central Ethiopia Region.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 276 women who were attending antenatal care follow-up by using a systematic sampling technique from July 01 to 30, 2023. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews. Data entry was done by Epi data version 4.6 and analysis was done by SPSS 25 statistical software. Variables with p-value < 0.25 in bi-variable analysis were moved to multivariable analysis for controlling the possible confounders. In the multivariable analysis, variables with p-values less than 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval were considered statistically significant to HRFB.ResultsIn the study, it was found that 67.39% of the total participants, specifically women, exhibited high-risk fertility behavior (HRFB) (95% CI: 63.91, 71.01). Among these, 41.90% were identified as having a single high-risk factor (95% CI: 39.78, 44.2), while 25.47% were classified as facing multiple high-risk factors (95% CI: 24.13, 26.8). The research indicated that several factors significantly contributed to maternal HRFB, including lack of antenatal care (ANC) follow-up (AOR: 3.36, 95% CI: 1.78, 6.35), having fewer than four ANC visits (AOR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.38, 4.32), and a poor knowledge of contraceptives (AOR: 2.89, 95% CI: 1.02, 5.11).ConclusionThe findings of this study showed that HRFB is high. Almost two out of three women experience HRFB. Having ANC follows- up, number of ANC visits, and knowledge on contraception were the major factors affecting HRFB. HRFB could seriously indicate the development of the country as well as maternal health issues. Therefore, Health education on advantages of ANC follow up and contraceptive use should get due attention.

Prevalence of neonatal sepsis and associated factors among neonates admitted in the neonatal intensive care unit at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Northern Uganda

Background Sepsis is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity among neonates. An estimated 5.29–8.73 million Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) are lost annually in SSA due to neonatal sepsis (NS). Uganda registered stagnated neonatal mortality of 27 deaths per 1000 live births in 2020 of which 12% was attributed to NS. Early risk factor identification and improved obstetric care are proven to reduce deaths due to NS, yet there is scanty literature on the LRRH. We, therefore, determined the prevalence of NS and identified its associated factors within the LRRH of northern Uganda. Methods A hospital-based, cross-sectional study with a retrospective chart review was conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH), in northern Uganda. 194 records of neonates admitted to the NICU from September 2022 to February 2023 were reviewed. The participant records were selected by systematic sampling technique and a structured data extraction tool was used to collect data. Using SPSS version 25 data entry and analysis were done. The univariable analysis gave a general description of the data. Logistic regression analysis was used to show associations and the statistical significance was declared at a P value of 0.05 after multivariable analysis. Results Among a total of 194 neonates whose charts were reviewed, 80 neonates had neonatal sepsis, giving a proportion of 0.412 and then prevalence of 41.2%. Age in days of the neonate (AOR = 4.212, 95% CI: [1.627-10.903]) for neonates of 1-3days of age, sex where males (AOR = 2.09, 95% CI: [1.123-3.887]), an APGAR score of 1-4 at birth (AOR = 0.309, 95% CI: [0.115-0.831]) and weight at birth &lt;2500g (AOR = 2.543, 95% CI: [1.381-4.683]) were significantly related to it. Conclusions and recommendations The results found the prevalence of NS among neonates admitted to the NICU of LRRH high at 41.2%. Factors 1-3 days of age, male sex, a birth weight of &lt;2500g, and an Apgar score of 1-4 at birth among all neonates were significant. Therefore, it was suggested that caregivers ensure safe newborn care, detect infections early, and use prophylactic antibiotics for high-risk babies after birth, to reduce NS. Further research will be conducted on the major causative agents and outcomes of NS in the NICU of LRRH.

Seismic evaluation and retrofit of reinforced concrete structures

The destructive earthquakes in the world clearly reveal the importance of the seismic behavior of the structures. The current study proposes and numerically investigates a systematic technique for the seismic assessment and retrofit of reinforced-concrete buildings according to both material strain limit approach and Quadrants assessment method. In this study numerical analysis were made for two three-dimensional building models, namely a single-storey 30 years old existing RC building in Koyna-Warna area (Zone-IV) in India, and an earthquake-resistant designed 4-story RC building. The structural analyses were performed for two 3-D models of the selected buildings are analysed. Nonlinear static adaptive pushover analysis method was used in Seismostruct software program for two different buildings. While one of the buildings is an existing building, the other is chosen as a new building. Structural characteristics and deficiencies of the investigated single-storey existing reinforced-concrete structure necessitated seismic evaluation. The deficiencies include pitched roofs, re-entrant corners, and structural distress such as structural element cracking and cover concrete spalling, among others. The single-story RC building is retrofitted with RC jacketing and fiber-reinforced polymer sheet wrapping, while the four-storey RC building does not need to be retrofitted based on the Quadrants assessment method. Also, the significant seismic design parameters are evaluated before and after the retrofit. The results show that the material strain limit technique when combined with the Quadrants assessment method makes a more efficient technique for seismic assessment and retrofit purpose. Also, the ultimate capacity and over strength factor of the retrofitted single-storey RC existing building are found 2.04 times and 1.82 times increased in X and Y direction as compared to the building without retrofit, because of the RC jacketing and FRP sheet wrapping.

Length of stay in the pediatrics emergency department and associated factors among pediatrics patients in Eastern Ethiopia public hospital, Ethiopia 2022.

Patient length of stay is a crucial measure of the emergency department, and it is a vital indicator of health services to evaluate its efficacy, patient care, organizational management, and health care system. Despite this, there are a few studies conducted on pediatric emergency length of stay in developing countries. Therefore, this study serves as input for evidence of pediatric emergency length of stay and associated factors in public hospitals. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among children who attended in pediatric emergency department of Eastern Ethiopia public hospital from May 01 to Jun 31, 2022. A total of 761 children were selected by systematic sampling technique and interview using structured questionnaires. After data is collected and cleaned, entered using Epi data version 4.6 and then exported to Stata version 14.1 for analysis. Finally, an AOR with a 95% CI was computed, and variables with a P-value < 0.05 in the multivariable analysis were taken as significant factors for prolonged length of stay. The prevalence of prolonged length of stay in the emergency ward was 214 (72%). Living in a rural residence ([AOR = 1.65, 95% CI (1.10-2.48)], having a duration of pain > = 12 ([AOR = 1.92, 95% CI (1.13-3.25)], waiting time > = 5 minute ([AOR = 2.24, 95% CI (1.1-4.248541)], having comorbid illness ([AOR = 1.92, 95%CI, 1.13-3.25)], and higher acuity level and absence of medication in the hospital were ([AOR = 2.26, 95%CI (1.02-2.46]) were significantly associated factors for prolonged length of stay. This study revealed that more than two-thirds of children admitted to pediatric emergency had prolonged lengths of stay. This result indicated that higher proportion of the length of stay in pediatric emergency in Eastern Ethiopian public hospitals compare to national. Hence, it is better to give priority to strengthening the focused evaluation of important variables and manage accordingly.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Associated Factors Among Public Primary Second-Cycle Schoolchildren in Debre Markos Town, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Intestinal parasitic infection is a common disease that causes significant morbidity and mortality in developing countries, including Ethiopia. The burden of intestinal parasites is worse in schoolchildren, which leads to absenteeism from school, lower cognitive ability, affects academic performance, and causes malnutrition and anemia. While many studies have been reported, there is a paucity of published data in Debre Markos. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among public primary second-cycle schoolchildren in Debre Markos Town, Northwest Ethiopia. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among three selected public primary second-cycle schools in Debre Markos town from May 1 to 30, 2022. Study participants were selected by using random and systematic sampling techniques with proportional allocation to each grade. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. A single stool specimen was collected from the study participants and processed using direct wet mount and formol ether concentration technique. Binary logistic regression models were applied to assess the association between independent and outcome variables at a 95% confidence level. A total of 343 students were included in the study. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 12% (41/343) with a predominance of hookworms (5.2%, 18/343), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides 2.3% (8/343), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 1.2% (4/343), Hymenolepis nana 0.9% (3/343), Strongyloides stercoralis 0.9% (3/343), Giardia lamblia 0.9% (3/343), and Trichuris trichiura 0.6% (2/343). The habit of open-field defecation (AOR, 95% CI; 2.43 [1.16-5.09]), not using soap to wash hands (AOR, 95% CI; 2.93 [1.33-6.42]), and not wearing closed shoes (AOR, 95% CI; 3.12 [1.19-8.23]) were factors significantly associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was comparatively low in the study area. Open-field defecation, not using soap to wash hands, and not wearing closed shoes were identified as independent predictors.

Rhinoplasty Septal Cartilage Harvest and Reconstruction: The 4 Clicks

Summary: Successful rhinoplasty relies on a deep understanding of nasal anatomy and precise nasal tip control for lasting functional and aesthetic outcomes. Structural grafts, like septal extension grafts, are instrumental in maintaining tip position and projection with minimal long-term changes. This article details a systematic technique to harvest septal cartilage that maximizes graft material and allows for effective septal deviation correction.

&lt;b&gt;Determinant of Pastoralist Participation in Dry Fish Agribusiness Value Chain Activities: An Implication for Employment Opportunities&lt;/b&gt;

Dry fish agribusiness has proven to be a lucrative venture for pastoralist communities, allowing them to generate additional income during the dry season, when livestock productivity is low. This study aims to determine pastoralist participation in dry fish agribusiness value chain activities in the Akobo district. Akobo district, kebelles, and respondents were selected using purposive, random, and systematic sampling techniques, respectively. The data were collected through structured interviews and questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. A binary logistic model was used in this study. Qualitative data were analyzed using a five-point Likert scale. This study found that pastoralists actively participate in production, transportation, processing, and marketing activities. The major constraints that limit their participation in dry fish agribusiness were a low level of education, lack of modern storage facilities, poor rural infrastructure, and lack of external training, poor rural market, and high transportation costs. The results of the binary logit model showed that educational level, market access, and household size were significant and positive, whereas technology access was significant and negatively influenced pastoralist participation in dry fish agribusiness value chain activities. Dry fish agribusiness value chain activity is vital for improving the livelihood of pastoralist inhabitants in Akobo district. Therefore, pastoralists in this district should be better equipped to actively participate in dry fish agribusiness value chain activities.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Method As Environmental Law Enforcement In Green Economic Development

Apart from having the impact of rapid economic growth, rapid economic growth will optimize production factor inputs and generate abundant national income, but it also leaves negative effects on the environment due to residues in the economic process which have an impact on environmental degradation and damage. To find out the existence of Life Cycle Assessment in environmental preservation and Life Cycle Assessment to encourage environmentally sound development. The method used is descriptive qualitative by collecting literature studies and basing it on data analysis literature using systematic literature review techniques. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a methodology used to assess the environmental impact of all stages in the life cycle of a product, from raw material extraction, production, distribution, use, to final processing or recycling. This method provides a comprehensive picture of the total environmental footprint of a product or service. Environmentally sound development is a conscious and planned effort to use and manage resources wisely in planned and sustainable development to improve the quality of human life. This perspective on sustainable development must be understood as an ethic in development politics, namely a moral commitment to organizers in development, carried out to achieve goals without sacrificing other aspects.

Durability and Bearing Capacity Assessment of Existing Bridge Pile Foundations for Sustainable Highway Reconstruction

Conducting a reasonable assessment of whether the durability and bearing capacity of concrete used in existing bridge pile foundations can meet all requirements is an important prerequisite for ensuring the reuse of existing bridge pile foundations. With this in mind, this study evaluates the project of the Beijing–Taibei Highway in Shandong Province that must be restored and enlarged. Using static load and concrete durability testing methods, the bearing capacity characteristics and durability of seven existing bridge pile foundations were investigated. Using attribute identification theory, a systematic technique for determining the reuse value of existing piles is proposed. The test examination findings demonstrate that the change curve corresponding to the pile foundation’s ultimate bearing capacity matches the concrete compressive strength curve. The pile foundations had lower ultimate bearing capacity than average. The concrete compressive strengths of the three test piles were 18%, 16.3%, and 17.5% lower than the average compressive strengths of the seven test piles. A comprehensive durability evaluation method for assessing existing piles can effectively evaluate the reuse value of existing piles and promote sustainable highway reconstruction and expansion projects.

Secondary school learners’ understanding of Namibian boys’ underachievement and under-participation in education

To understand the manifestations of gender disparity in academic achievement between boys and girls, we conducted the Namibian boys’ underachievement in education study. In this article we present data from this study on secondary school learners’ understanding of the disparity. Using a pragmatic parallel mixed methods research design, systematic and criterion sampling techniques, we collected data by administering structured questionnaires to 4659 learners. We also conducted focus group discussions with purposefully selected learners. Some boys performed worse than girls and under-participated in education because they withdrew from learning activities, believed they could do without education, they were not interested in education, dropped out of school and did not actively participate in learning activities. Several parents undermined their sons’ educational achievement during socialization by giving them too much freedom to roam while strictly controlling the behaviour of their daughters; allowing their sons to abuse alcohol and drugs; not giving their sons responsibilities at home; not being concerned of their sons’ education, misconduct, and welfare. We have recommended that schools should establish boys’ academic intrinsic achievement motivation programmes by addressing their dysfunctional motivational attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours. Such programmes should also attend to the boys’ adverse external motivational factors such as negative peer pressure and lack of supportive family and community environments.

Impact of a Health Education Intervention Program on Personal Hygiene Knowledge and Attitude Among Female Adolescents from Selected Secondary Schools in Lagos State, Nigeria

Background: Personal hygiene is a practice that preserves health and prevents diseases particularly through personal cleanliness of the individual and good personal hygiene practices are critical to preventing infectious diseases and improving health outcomes. However, this study examined the impact of health education intervention programs on personal hygiene knowledge and attitude among female adolescents from selected secondary schools in Lagos State, Nigeria. Methodology: The quasi-experimental research approach was employed for the study. The population was 1,500 students. A sample size of 30 students for each group was derived using Cochran’s formula. A systematic sampling technique was used to group the participants into experimental group (EG) and control group (CG) by selecting every 2nd student on class register. EG was assigned to health education modules on personal hygiene for 1 hour once weekly and CG had a training on prevention of HPV for 1 hour once a week, both for six weeks. Two research assistants were trained for 1 hour over a period of two days to serve as health educators. A structured validated questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha reliability index ranging from 0.75 to 0.80 was used to collect data. Data was collected at baseline, immediate post-intervention and six weeks follow-up. Data was analysed using descriptive, and inferential statistics at 5% level of significance. Results: Findings showed that at baseline, there was no significant difference (p &gt; 0.05) in the mean scores of personal hygiene knowledge for the experimental group (17.06± 0.65) and the control group (18.82± 0.40). Also, at baseline, there was no significant difference (p &gt; 0.05) in the mean scores of personal hygiene attitude for the experimental group (5.03 ± 0.54) and the control group (6.67 ± 0.31). Furthermore, there was a significant difference (p &lt; 0.05) in the mean scores of personal hygiene knowledge between baseline for EG (17.06 ± 0.65) and 12th week follow-up (23.40 ± 0.17), and there was a significant difference (p &lt; 0.05) in the mean scores of personal hygiene attitude between baseline for EG (5.03 ± 0.54) and 12th week follow-up (11.47 ± 0.14). There was also a significant difference (p &gt;0.05) in the knowledge and perception of personal hygiene among female adolescents in the control group and artisans in the experimental group at 12th follow-up. Conclusion: The post intervention evaluation of personal hygiene knowledge and attitude among female adolescents in selected secondary schools in Lagos State has proven that the level of knowledge of participants on personal hygiene is very high. It was recommended that personal hygiene be closely tied to the availability of water and sanitation facilities. Therefore, every school should collaborate with local government authorities through advocacy for the water and sanitation facilities.

Exploring corporate financial reporting theories: a systematic approach

Purpose The study aims to identify, summarize and synthesize the theories used in corporate financial reporting (CFR) and propose a conceptual framework based on those theories. Design/methodology/approach The study applied the systematic literature review approach to achieve the study objectives. So, the researchers systematically collected the relevant documents from the Scopus database with the help of an advanced search string containing keywords to the CFR theories. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses technique was used for the relevant document selection process. Finally, 67 documents were extracted and analyzed spanning from the year of 2017 to 2023. Findings The major findings of this study indicate a predominance of legitimacy, agency and stakeholder theories in CFR studies. Whereas, this study reveals that neo-institutional, signaling, resource dependency, political economics and impression management theories have been less focused on by scholars in the CFR studies. Those theories need to be reemphasized in this field in future research. Originality/value The study’s contributions are significant for academics, policymakers and different parties, as it enhance the understanding of CFR theoretical frameworks and suggest directions for future research to broaden the theoretical landscape. The study maps the motivations of applying a certain theory which will help the researchers to select a specific theory for the underlying context of CFR.

Examining the role of financial characteristics of micro and small enterprises in accessing debt financing: evidence from Ghana

Given the critical role of financial characteristics in determining Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs’) access to debt finance, it is essential to understand how these characteristics influence lending decisions, particularly from a developing market context. This study aims to examine the key financial characteristics that significantly influence MSEs’ ability to access debt finance. Using systematic sampling technique, we collect data from 171 Ghanaian MSEs that are registered with Ghana Enterprise Agency. The data was analyzed using SPSS linear regression version 24. The result shows financial management experience and profitability as the significant financial characteristics that influence MSEs ability to access debt finance. The result further shows that equity structure and financial statement have negative significant influence on MSEs ability to access debt finance. Asset tangibility, liquidity, debt service coverage ratio, and working capital has no significant influence on MSEs’ access to debt financing.

Treatment outcome of community acquired pneumonia among pediatric patients admitted to pediatrics wards at university of Gondar comprehensive and specialized hospital, northwest Ethiopia: a Retrospective cohort study

BackgroundPneumonia is inflammation of the lung parenchyma and is a substantial cause of childhood morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a type of pneumonia termed when patients who develop pneumonia in the outpatient setting and have not been in any health care facilities within 90days.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to determine treatment outcome of community acquired pneumonia among hospitalized pediatric patients.MethodA retrospective cohort study was conducted from April 15, 2019 to July 15, 2019 and included patients who were admitted and hospitalized in pediatrics wards from September 1, 2015 to March 30, 2019. The study included pediatric age groups between one month and fifteen years old. Study Participants were selected based on the diagnosis of Community acquired pneumonia. Systematic sampling technique was used. All the statistical data were carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 20) and descriptive statistics were presented using means with standard deviation and percentages. Binary logistic regression model was fitted to measure the association between independent and dependent variables including duration of signs and symptoms. 95% Confidence interval was used. Statistically significant at P < 0.05.ResultsA total of 385 patients with Community Acquired Pneumonia were included in this study of whom 368(95.65%) were discharged and 17(4.4%) of patients were dead. Drug therapy change (AOR 20.308(3.666-112.501), P = 0.001), Prescribing and taking of large number of drugs (above 5 drugs) (AOR 0.067, CI (0.015–0.313), P = 0.001), Loss of appetite (AOR 38.641, CI (5.454-273.769), P = 0.000), and Blood transfusion (AOR 10.514, CI (1.752–63.113), P = 0.01) have significant association with the treatment outcome of death.ConclusionPoor treatment outcome (death) was accounted for 4.4% of the pediatric patients hospitalized with community acquired pneumonia in this study setting. Based on the findings of this study Community acquired pneumonia is still a cause of substantial mortality of children under 15years old while on standardized treatment strategies. Antibiotic drug therapy change, taking increased number of drugs, loss of appetite and blood transfusion are the factors that contribute to this poor treatment outcome of CAP among children under 15years old.

Enhancing Public Knowledge of Sharia Insurance Products in Indonesia Through Effective Management Strategies

Islamic insurance, known as Sharia Insurance, has emerged as a vital aspect of Indonesia's financial landscape. Sharia Insurance adheres to Islamic economic principles, offering products such as takaful (mutual guarantee) and mudharabah (profit-sharing). The potential for growth in Indonesia's Sharia insurance sector is substantial, bolstered by the country's predominantly Muslim population, which constituted 87.2% of the total population in 2021. Moreover, under Financial Services Authority Regulation (FSAR) Number 11 of 2023, Article 15, Sharia financial institutions are mandated to prioritize Sharia-compliant financial products. Despite these regulatory supports, however, Sharia insurance has achieved only a modest market share, with premiums accounting for just 4.76% as of December 31, 2022. In response to these challenges and opportunities, this study aims to examine the barriers, particularly the issue of public awareness, where many individuals lack a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the advantages offered by Sharia insurance products. Consequently, this paper addresses two main objectives: 1) identifying factors contributing to public misconceptions and limited awareness of Sharia insurance benefits, and 2) exploring initiatives aimed at addressing these issues. This research employs a qualitative approach, employing systematic literature review techniques to analyze relevant books and literature focused on the identified themes. The findings aim to offer insights into the challenges faced by Sharia insurance and propose strategies to enhance public awareness and understanding of Islamic insurance products.

Analyzing the impact of variations in land use and elevation on selected soil microbial indices and spatial distribution.

Soil biological characteristics are highly sensitive to land use changes, making them valuable indicators of soil quality. This study assesses the effects of three land use types (agriculture, rangeland, and forest) and elevation variations on soil microbial parameters and their spatial distribution in the Khaneghah region. Standard physicochemical and biological properties of the soil were measured on a total of 72 soil samples collected using systematic and random sampling techniques. Spatial distribution maps of the biological indices were generated using geostatistical techniques, specifically the Kriging method, within a geographic information system (GIS). The results revealed significantly higher values for microbial biomass carbon (MBC = 900 mg Cmic-CO2 kg-1), nitrogen (MBN = 8.97 mg Nmic kg-1), basal respiration (BR = 25.1 mg C-CO2 g-1 day-1), and the total microbial population (MPN = 0.63 × 109 cells g-1) in forest soils compared to rangeland and agricultural soils. The alignment between land use maps and biological index maps reinforced these findings. Although the correlations between biological indices and physicochemical properties were generally weak (positive or negative), organic matter content, field capacity moisture, and silt percentage exhibited a slight positive correlation with most of the microbial indices evaluated. The comparison of soil microbial indices with the digital elevation model map indicated higher levels of MBC, MBN, BR, and MPN at elevated regions. However, the microbial quotient and metabolic quotient (qCO₂) did not show significant changes with increasing elevation. The study also confirmed the effectiveness of Kriging interpolation in mapping specific soil microbial indices, as the correlation between Kriging estimates and measured values at sampling points exceeded 0.2, demonstrating statistical significance at a 5% confidence level.

The Impact of Influencers on Consumer’s Content Consumption of Online Streaming Platforms in Delhi

This study aims to provide fruitful insights regarding the impact of influencers on digital content consumption on online streaming platforms among consumers of Delhi by considering some demographic aspects. We did a systematic literature review to find out the impact of influencers on digital content consumption in Delhi. It also consists of the various genres and streaming platforms that are famous nowadays in Delhi. The Systematic literature review technique is used in a way that will find the appropriate variables and entertain the exact research gap found during the process. This study includes 250 individuals from different characteristics with the help of convenient sampling techniques. It also indicates the perception of people residing in Delhi regarding content consumption across different online streaming Platforms. The outcome of this study suggests the role of influencers affecting various demographics and consumer engagements while consuming digital content.

Intentions, Barriers and Attitudes towards Improving Postpartum Long-acting Reversible Contraceptive Usage among Pregnant Women in Urban Ghana

Aims: Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are the most effective reversible methods of contraception with a failure rate of less than 1%. Despite their safety and effectiveness, LARCs are underutilized. This study investigated postpartum LARC use intentions and suggestions to improve postpartum LARC usage among pregnant women seeking antenatal care services in a Ghanaian Urban municipality. Study Design: A facility-based cross-sectional design. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the antenatal care unit of the Ashanti Regional Hospital in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana among 298 pregnant women from August to September, 2018. Methodology: A systematic sampling technique was conducted. A 55-item questionnaire containing socio-demographic, reproductive, intention and attitude, barriers and contraceptive knowledge characteristics was used to gather responses. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was done using (IBM-SPSS version 22.0) to determine predictors of the women’s intention and attitude towards postpartum LARC use. Results: Out of 298 pregnant women included for analysis, 33.9% had postpartum intentions to use LARCs. “I like implant for myself” (AOR=9.00, 95% CI: 4.75-17.05), “I like IUD for myself” (AOR=7.38, 95% CI: 2.93-18.58) and previous use of LARC (AOR=7.03, 95% CI: 2.41-20.52) were predictors of postpartum intentions to use LARC. Intensive education and “worried about the side effects” were the main recommendations and barriers to postpartum LARC usage respectively. Conclusion: Postpartum intention to use LARC was minimal. I like implant for myself”, “I like IUD for myself” and previous use of LARC were associated with intentions to use LARC postpartum. Intensive education and “worried about the side effects” were the main recommendations and barriers to postpartum LARC usage respectively. Attitudinal change towards LARC use through intensive education, easy accessibility of LARC and religious body involvement is key to increase postpartum LARC usage in Ghana and clearing its myths and misconceptions could advance modern contraceptive usage.

Influence of Transportation Exhaust and Acid Rain on the Strength of Concrete Bridges and Possible Solutions to Reduce Harmful Effects

The quality control and safety assessment of existing bridge decks as a result of integrated field tests are presented in this work as a systematic technique. The aim of this research is to determine an effective approach for directly protecting concrete bridges exposed to transportation exhaust and acid rain. Mechanical property, permeability, chloride effect and abrasion resistance tests at days 28, 91, 180, 360 and 540 of the concrete specimen were used to evaluate the concrete strength. The results demonstrated the efficacy of the nanomortar, insulating paints and epoxy resin in improving concrete characteristics. In terms of water permeability, the specimen with 0% epoxy resin performed poorly compared with the control. Fuzrthermore, compared with the other combinations, the mixture with epoxy resin presented the lowest water permeability, followed by the mixtures with insulating paints and nanomortars. The specimen with epoxy resin obtained the lowest water penetration (0 mm). The specimen with insulating paint obtained the lowest water penetration (216 mm) at 91 days (with effect). This ratio can be explained by the reduction in permeability of 68.37% with respect to the control. The specimen with nanomortar obtained the lowest water penetration (14.5 mm) at 91 days, with effect.