Tamil Nadu Research Articles

Quantitative elemental analysis and petrographic investigation of ancient potteries from archaeological sites of Tamil Nadu, using total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy

In order to investigate the elemental composition, a total of 19 potteries and two representative clay samples from Senjikothamangalam (Villupuram district) and 12 potteries and one representative clay sample from the Palayanur (Chengalpattu) archaeological sites in Tamil Nadu were analyzed using total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. The presence of elements such as Fe, Ca, K, Ti, Al, Sr, Mn, P, V, Cr, Zn, Rb, Ni, Cu, Pb, Ga, Y, Bi, Br, and As were identified in the pottery and clay samples. Statistical analysis, such as Pearson correlation, cluster and principal component analysis were used to categorize the samples based on their elemental composition. The outcome of the Pearson correlation and cluster analysis corroborated that the Senjikothamangalam pottery samples (P-1 to P-19) were made using the same type of clay, except P-10. Similarly, all Palayanur pottery samples (P-20 to P-31) were manufactured from the same clay. The petrographic analysis of the potteries revealed further information about its provenance and making methods.

Assessment of access of the public utilities amongst the villages surveyed under Unnath Bharath Abhiyan mission in the Manachanallur taluk of Trichy district in Tamil Nadu, India

Aim of the study was to identify the deficits in the access and utilization of the common public utilities in the villages under Unnath Bharath mission (UBA), India. The initiatives that require some attention and could help improvise the current existing livelihoods in the Indian villages. Descriptive cross-sectional study-cross sectional survey analysis under the five following villages Kovathakudi, Ootathur, Thirumanamedu (west), Thirumanamedu (East) and Thirumangalam of the Manachanallur taluk, Tiruchirapalli district in Tamilnadu that were selected for the UBA study using semi-structured semi-tested questionnaire by doing the door to door survey. In 94% of the surveyed study participants, did not receive any form of pension. 126 (22.7%) study participants of the villages surveyed under the UBA had Mahatma Gandhi national rural employment guarantee act (MGNREGA) job cards. Nearly 590 (51.75%) individuals had some knowledge with regard to the usage of computers. Around 504 (94%) individuals had knowledge regarding self help groups (SHG). Need for attention for initiatives to further improvise the pension scheme, MGNREGA cards, SHG and computer literacy amongst the surveyed population under the Unnath Bharath mission.

Dynamics of urban development patterns on thermal distributions and their implications on water spread areas of Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India

Recent satellite maps have reported that India is experiencing extreme heat waves, surpassing even Middle Eastern countries. This study addresses a critical gap in understanding how land use land cover (LULC) changes impact land surface temperature (LST), urban heat intensity (UHI), and water spread area (WSA) in rapidly growing cities such as Vellore and Katpadi over three decades (1997–2024). We used Landsat thermal bands and the support vector machine (SVM) algorithm to investigate LULC and LST patterns, examining the effects of urbanization and water body reduction on local climate dynamics. The LULC results showed an increase in built-up lands from 5.89 to 25.89%, while zooming water areas shrank from 3.15 to 1.02%. LST showed a significant increasing trend, with temperatures for water bodies and vegetation ranging from 17.4°C to 26°C, and for barren and built-up areas from 28°C to 42.6°C. The results of the multivariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between LST and the Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) and negative correlations between LST and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), and the Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI). Moreover, spatial and time series analyses of WSAs indicated a significant increase in LST. Furthermore, a strong negative correlation was found between WSA and LST, with a 10% decrease in WSA potentially increasing LST by 0.12°C to 0.55°C in surrounding regions. This study offers important contributions to improving land use policy and water resource management in urban areas, while addressing environmental concerns related to rising temperatures. The findings underscore the urgency of mitigating heat impacts and managing water resources in rapidly expanding cities. Our results provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to develop more sustainable, resilient, and livable urban environments.

An Approach for Monitoring Chlorophyll-A and Turbidity Levels in Saduperi and Kaveripakkam Lakes Located in and Around Vellore Region, Tamil Nadu, India, Using Spectral Unmixing Technique

An Approach for Monitoring Chlorophyll-A and Turbidity Levels in Saduperi and Kaveripakkam Lakes Located in and Around Vellore Region, Tamil Nadu, India, Using Spectral Unmixing Technique

Advancing biostatistics education in Tamil Nadu: a comprehensive review of academic programs and training opportunities

Biostatistics, an applied branch of statistics, is integral to biomedical research and public health. It aids in analyzing and interpreting clinical and laboratory data, and its importance has grown with advancements in evidence-based medicine. Despite the increasing demand for skilled biostatisticians, the availability of specialized educational programs varies. This study aims to assess and list the institutions offering biostatistics courses in Tamil Nadu, India. A systematic search was conducted using Google to identify institutions in Tamil Nadu offering long-term courses in biostatistics and related fields. The search focused on program details including course name, institution, location, duration, eligibility, and mode of delivery. Short-term programs were excluded from the results. Data were compiled into a table summarizing the available programs. The study identified nine institutions in Tamil Nadu providing biostatistics education: one offers a PhD, seven offer Master of Science (M.Sc.) programs, and one offers a Post Graduate Diploma. Notable institutions include the National Institute of Epidemiology (PhD), Bharathiar University, Christian Medical College, and The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University (M.Sc.), among others. The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University offers a robust M.Sc. program with a low fee structure, emphasizing statistical theory, methodology, and practical experience through a practicum. Tamil Nadu’s extensive and varied biostatistics programs address the growing need for trained professionals in health sciences. The combination of diverse program options and practical training ensures a well-prepared workforce. The state's educational framework supports the advancement of biostatistics, contributing significantly to biomedical research and public health.

Utilization patterns and satisfaction levels among beneficiaries attending Ayushman Bharat health and wellness centres in a coastal district of Tamil Nadu, India

Background: “Ayushman Bharat” has its twin pillars of health and wellness centers (HWCs) and “Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana” which looks at health holistically and lays significant milestone towards India’s path to universal health coverage. To ensure delivery of comprehensive primary health care, existing sub health centres and certain primary health centres were transformed to HWCs. Objectives were to assess the utilization patterns and measure the satisfaction levels among beneficiaries attending Health and Wellness Centres in rural and urban areas of Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken over a period of six months among 808 beneficiaries from eight of the newly upgraded HWCs of Cuddalore. A multi-stage stratified cluster sampling was employed. Data was collected by exit interviews using semi-structured questionnaire. Data entry and analysis was done by Epidata 3.1 and SPSS 21. Results: Majority, 790 (97.7%) felt that healthcare providers were having a positive attitude towards them. In addition, 772 (95.5%) felt that doctors showed interest in them as a whole. About 320 (79.3%) beneficiaries attending rural HWCs were satisfied with the overall treatment received in comparison with 254 (62.8%) beneficiaries attending urban HWCs. The satisfaction level on the overall treatment received was low among urban HWCs beneficiaries. Conclusions: Majority of the patients were satisfied with the health care services offered at HWCs and healthcare providers at HWCs.

An Analysis on Caste Practices and the Vulnerabilities Faced by Burial Ground Workers in Sivagangai District, Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is a state combined with multi-religious, multi-ethnic and inequality. Formally, Caste is being an indispensable part of cremation process. Whether it is traditional or new techniques it all based on the caste practices followed by each community. The aim of the study is to analysis the caste practices and the vulnerabilities faced by cremation ground workers. It deals with the burying process and preparation of crematorium. The purpose of this analysis is to examine the status and caste differences faced by the crematorium workers in Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu. The objectives of the Study have discussed to study the discrimination faced by burial ground workers. To analysis the impact of discrimination and the status of crematory workers. To Enact an inclusive policy to build up the marginalized cremation workforce in Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu. Result of the study implementing the policy measures to create a more inclusive, social and economic equality for the burial ground workers, addressing longstanding gender and caste disparities. These policies aim to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for burial ground workers by addressing gender and caste disparities. Formalizing employment, enacting anti-discrimination laws, and ensuring job security will offer stability and recognition for those in this essential industry, fostering social justice and equality. Findings of the study on Caste intersects with class, gender, and religion, creating complex layers of discrimination that particularly affect burial ground workers, who often face social stigma and marginalization. Predominantly from lower caste, these workers endure systemic discrimination, low wages, job insecurity, and significant occupational hazards, such as exposure to pathogens and harsh working conditions, all while playing a crucial role in public health and the execution of cultural and religious rituals. Living in segregated communities, their families experience social ostracism and limited access to essential services, yet they demonstrate resilience through community solidarity, with local organizations advocating for their rights and improved conditions. Conclusion of the study have the caste system's deep-rooted influence continues to affect Indian society, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts toward social justice. Burial ground workers play a critical, yet often overlooked, role, facing social stigma and poor working conditions. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes legal, social, and economic interventions. Recognizing their contributions and vulnerabilities has been essential for fostering greater inclusivity and equality in the society. This study emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and supporting these workers to promote social progress.

Avifaunal diversity assessment and conservation significance of Therthangal Bird Sanctuary, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu: insights about breeding waterbirds

Avifaunal diversity assessment and conservation significance of Therthangal Bird Sanctuary, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu: insights about breeding waterbirds

Corrigendum to: Morphometric relationships and condition factor of the green tiger shrimp, Penaeus semisulcatus De Haan, 1844 (Decapoda, Penaeidae), from Palk Bay waters of Tamil Nadu (DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10358)

Corrigendum to: Morphometric relationships and condition factor of the green tiger shrimp, Penaeus semisulcatus De Haan, 1844 (Decapoda, Penaeidae), from Palk Bay waters of Tamil Nadu (DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10358)

Dexmedetomidine vs. Fentanyl for Awake Fiberoptic Intubation Among Adults in Tamil Nadu - A Randomized Control Trial.

Background: Dexmedetomidine and fentanyl are often administered medications for inducing conscious sedation, a technique employed for performing awake fibreoptic intubation. However, there is a scarcity of literature that directly compares the effects of these drugs when administered at equivalent doses. This study sought to assess the effectiveness and safety of using dexmedetomidine and fentanyl in adult patients undergoing Awake Fiberoptic Intubation (AFOI). Methodology: The current research study undertaken was a randomized controlled trial conducted among adult patients at A hospital providing specialized medical services in Salem, Tamil Nadu. There were 60 study participants, 30 participants in each group. A group received the drug dexmedetomidine 1-µg/kg while B group received fentanyl l-µg/kg intravenously. Primary outcomes measured were the efficacy of both drugs for sedation, patients’ comfort and compliance during AFOI, cough score, BP, HR, post-intubation score, and the Ramsay sedation score and SpO2 for 15 minutes intraoperatively. Results: The study found that 80% of study participants in A group had cough score below 2, compared to only 6.7% in group B. Post-intubation cooperation was also higher in group A, with 83.3% of patients showing cooperation. The Ramsay sedation score showed significant differences between the groups. Intubation length was shorter in group A, while group B experienced HR increased, SBP, and oxygen saturation. These findings highlight the importance of individualized care in patient care. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine is superior to fentanyl for AFOI. Regarding the provision of heightened sedation, enhanced intubating circumstances, and increased tolerance to intubation, and greater hemodynamic stability, all within a shorter duration for intubation.

Improving the Cardamom Marketing: Assessing the Marketing Efficiency of Cardamom in Theni District, Tamil Nadu

Introduction: The cardamom is the oldest spices and belongs to Zingiberaceae family. It is cultivated in the thick shady, rainy forests of the Western Ghats of the South India. The major growing states are Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in reference to green cardamom (Small) and its botanical name Elettaria cardamomum. The part of Theni district is constituted by thick vegetations of hills of Western Ghats and Cumbum Valley at Bodi and Uthamapalayam taluk. In these areas, the farmers are cultivating the Cardamom. This study aims to find out the socio-economic characters, marketing behavior, assess the marketing efficiency of different supply channels and ranking the major problems faced by farmers to market their agricultural product. Methodology: The author used both primary and secondary data. The maximum area covered by cardamom was used as criteria for selecting the blocks. Purposive random sampling method was used to select the villages and the data was collected from the 60 farmers and other stakeholders using well-structured questionnaire. The descriptive statistics and percentage analysis were used for interpreting the results. For marketing analysis, marketing costs, marketing margin and price spread were estimated. For marketing efficiency, Acharya’s method (2003) was used. Results: The 34 respondents with 56.67 percent were found to be 21-35 years of age group. It was found that 7 respondents only with 11.67 percent and 26 respondents with 43.33 percent were found to be illiterate and the annual turnover of 1-5 lakh respectively. Using Acharya’s method (2003), the marketing efficiency of the channel I, II, III were 5.92, 9.97, 7.27 respectively. The price spread in the marketing channel I, II, and III are Rs. 295.94 per Kg, Rs. 163.54 per Kg and 229.48 per Kg respectively. It was shown that channel II is efficient due to high efficiency value and less price spread. Producer in the marketing channel II had highest share (90.88) in consumer rupee. The result showed that the Lack of timely adequate funds were major problem faced by the cardamom farmers with garret mean score of 65.23. The financial problems were common in the respondents. Conclusion: Marketing channel II was efficient because the spice auction center plays a vital role in protecting the farmer as well as consumer from the malpractices and exploitation of Intermediaries and to provide the transparency in trading operations of cardamom. The government may increase the financial assistance or technical support program to support the cardamom growers of the Tamil Nadu. The board should educate the farmers to grade or sort the cardamom before entering the e-Auction center to get better price for better quality of the commodity and to expand the pilot project of separate e-auctions for lab tested cardamom for artificial colours and pesticidal residues to potential markets of Tamil Nadu.

Attitude of Onion Growers towards Drip Irrigation System in Tamil Nadu, India

The drip irrigation system is a kind of micro-irrigation system that has the potential to salvage the water and other nutrients by entrance water to drip gradually to the main roots if plants and other plant parts, which is from on the soil surface or buried inside the soil surface. The main aim of drip irrigation is to place water directly into the main root zone and decrease the water vapour. This study investigates the attitude of Onion growing farmers towards drip irrigation system. The survey was conducted to collect primary data from 119 onion growing farmers in Thondamuthur block of Coimbatore district. Findings reveal that less than three-fifths (57.14%) of the respondents expressed neutral attitude level towards drip irrigation system followed by 21.85 per cent had favourable and 21.01 per cent of the respondents had un-favourable attitude level towards drip irrigation system respectively. This study recommends the implementation of an extensive agricultural institution with more prevalent and periodic visits to drip owners should be established in order to provide regular technical advice and valuable data on the maintenance and repair of the drip irrigation scheme. Such initiatives could enhance the livelihood status of the onion growing farmers in Tamil Nadu.

Nutritive value of Macrobrachium rosenbergii cultured in a fresh water pond at Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India

Nutritive value of Macrobrachium rosenbergii cultured in a fresh water pond at Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India

Aflatoxin B1 in senna pods from field to storage in Tamil Nadu, India

ABSTRACT Senna, a medicinal herb, is highly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination, which often limits the export value of the final products due to the regulatory limits of importing countries. Presence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) was investigated in 229 senna pod samples at various stages from field to storage over three years. Higher incidence of AFB1 was revealed during the late harvest stage with a mean level of 52.4 µg/kg and a range of LOD-206 µg/kg. Out of 48 late harvest samples, 37 exceeded the AFFB1 limit of 2 µg/kg. In contrast, the majority of preharvest samples showed lower levels of AFB1 (1.0 µg/kg). During drying, increase in the mean AFB1 level to 4 µg/kg was observed and it could further increase to 18.1 μg/kg in storage. These results highlight the status of aflatoxin contamination in senna pods and emphasise the importance of implementing good agricultural practices in senna cultivation to mitigate AFB1 contamination.

Prevalence of Pre-Hypertension and Hypertension in Rural Adults: The Role of Lifestyle and Yoga Participation

Hypertension (HTN) and pre-hypertension are significant global health challenges, particularly in rural populations where access to healthcare and lifestyle education is limited. This cross-sectional study, conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Erode, Tamil Nadu, beginning in October 2022, aimed to quantify the prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension among 412 rural adults and explore the role of lifestyle factors, particularly yoga participation, in blood pressure management. A total of 412 participants were surveyed for demographic details, lifestyle habits, and health metrics such as blood pressure, BMI, and heart rate. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥90 mmHg, while pre-hypertension was defined as SBP 120-139 mmHg or DBP 80-89 mmHg. The study found a 32% prevalence of hypertension and a 28% prevalence of pre-hypertension. Regular yoga participants had significantly lower systolic (mean 120 mmHg) and diastolic (mean 75 mmHg) BP compared to nonpractitioners (mean SBP 135 mmHg, DBP 85 mmHg). These findings highlight the critical role of yoga and lifestyle changes in managing blood pressure in rural populations, supporting the need for public health policies that promote yoga as a preventive intervention.

An Empirical Analysis of Price Volatility of Turmeric in India

The objective of the present study aimed at examining the price volatility of turmeric in major markets of the state. The secondary data on monthly modal prices for the period January 2011 to December 2023 were collected from Duggirala and Kadapa (Andhra Pradesh), Nizamabad and Warangal (Telangana), Sangli (Maharashtra) and Erode (Tamil Nadu) by using purposive sampling method. The findings of ARCH-GARCH analysis revealed that the price series of Duggirala, Nizamabad and Erode markets showed the presence of price fluctuations as indicated by the sum of Alpha and Beta co-efficient which were nearer to one whereas in the remaining markets, the volatility shocks were not quite persistent.

Environmental impact assessment using diatom indices and water quality index in parts of Noyyal River from Upstream to Midstream in Tamil Nadu, India

Environmental impact assessment using diatom indices and water quality index in parts of Noyyal River from Upstream to Midstream in Tamil Nadu, India

Origin, distribution, fate, and risks of potentially toxic elements in the aquatic environment of Bengaluru Metropolis, India

This study probes the water quality, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) concentrations, and the associated environmental and human health implications, in forty one surface water bodies in Bengaluru metropolis, southern India. The pH in 54%, TDS in 63%, Ni in 12%, and U, Mo, Pb, Cr, Co, and Cu in 5% of the forty one water bodies exceed the WHO’s permissible limits for drinking purpose. Total dissolved solids display a significant positive correlation with Pb, Cr, Co, Cu, and Ni, suggesting the association of these elements with particulate matter. Sources of metal pollution include industries in the city's west (high levels of Pb, Cr, Co, Ni, and Cu), traffic in the city Centre (Mo), and geogenic (U) sources in the city's north, east, and south. The degree of contamination is high in 25%, moderate in 10%, and low in 65% of the forty one water bodies, with the highest degree of contamination in Narasappanehalli Lake in the industrial zone, Deepanjali Nagara Lake, and Govindraj Nagar drainage systems. Uranium, Pb, and Mo display a low to medium degree of contamination, whereas Cr, Co, Ni, and Cu display a medium to high degree of contamination. The non-carcinogenic risk through ingestion of contaminated water is medium to high for adults and children and the carcinogenic risk is high in all water bodies. Channels transport contaminated water from Bengaluru water bodies to the Pinakani and Cauvery Rivers and then to the northern Indian Ocean. The states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu rely on water from these rivers for domestic and agricultural use exposing large populations to contaminated waters. Additionally, contaminated waters can negatively impact flora and fauna of Peninsular India as well as the marine biota of the northern Indian Ocean.

Nutritional content in three small indigenous fishes found in freshwater ecosystems of Tamil Nadu, India

Nutritional content in three small indigenous fishes found in freshwater ecosystems of Tamil Nadu, India

“It became a cycle I was not able to break” towards menstrual justice: addressing human rights violation at Indian workplaces

Purpose This paper aims to advance the concept of “menstrual justice” by building on the comprehensive framework developed by Margaret E. Johnson (2019), which integrates legal rights, social justice and intersectional analysis. By applying Johnson’s insights and human rights frameworks to menstrual health management, the study advocates for state interventions to safeguard women labourers from exploitative practices that endanger their reproductive health and to uphold their menstrual rights. Design/methodology/approach A case study methodology is used to scrutinize menstrual injustices experienced by women labourers in precarious employment conditions. Specifically, it examines two cases, the mass hysterectomies in Beed, Maharashtra and the administration of unidentified pharmaceuticals to women in Tamil Nadu factories to mitigate menstrual pain and maximize productivity. Findings The findings reveal severe violations pertaining to menstrual justice, with practices deeply rooted in socioeconomic deprivation and systemic neglect. These issues subject female workers to various forms of gender-based violence that goes beyond physical abuse, raising critical concerns about menstrual justice and human rights violations. Research limitations/implications The study’s findings have limited generalizability due to the specific contexts of the case study. Furthermore, the absence of insights from managers/supervisors, and factory owners limits a comprehensive understanding of the policies and factors leading to neglect of menstrual management practices. Practical implications The findings of the study will prompt the medical industry to initiate research into medications that can effectively alleviate period pain while minimizing harmful side effects. Current treatments often come with significant drawbacks, highlighting the need for safer and more effective alternatives. Addressing this research gap is vital for achieving menstrual equity, as it ensures that individuals suffering from menstrual pain have access to relief that does not jeopardize their overall health. Advancing research in this area will not only enhance the quality of life for menstruators but also contribute to a more equitable and inclusive approach to menstrual health care. Social implications The findings support reframing menstrual friendly labour policies including comprehensive sexual and reproductive health information to everyone, regardless of gender, to reduce misinformation and stigma associated with menstruation at workplaces. Additionally, the study proposes the introduction of reusable menstrual products like menstrual cups to overcome period poverty. Thus, ensuring access to these resources is crucial for enabling informed decision-making, promoting gender equality, addressing health disparities and fostering the development of menstrual-friendly workplace policies. Originality/value This study, by using a case study-based approach, has thoroughly examined the issues and challenges faced by female labourers in fields and factories. It uniquely identifies the inadequacies in menstrual management provisions for female workers in India and advocates for a human rights-based approach to ensure that menstruators can manage their menstrual health safely. Unlike most existing studies, which primarily focus on product usage and the stigma or myths surrounding menstruation, this study advances menstrual justice by calling for labour policy reforms and medical research to lessen menstrual pain without compromising menstruators’ health. These reforms aim to provide working women with adequate rest and necessary provisions during menstruation. Addressing these gaps is essential and has been largely overlooked in global health policies.