Western District Research Articles

Exploring the effects of short-course antibiotics on children’s gut microbiota by using 16S rRNA gene sequencing: a case-control study

BackgroundWith the widespread use of antibiotics, more attention has been paid to their side effects. We paid extra attention to the impact of antibiotics on children’s bodies. Therefore, we analyzed the characteristic changes in the gut microbiota of children after antibiotic treatment to explore the pathogenesis of antibiotic-associated diseases in more depth and to provide a basis for diagnosis and treatment.MethodsWe recruited 28 children with bronchopneumonia in the western district of Zhuhai, China, and divided them into three treatment groups based on antibiotic type. We took stool samples from children before and 3–5 days after antibiotic treatment. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze the effects of antibiotic therapy on the gut microbiota of children. Continuous nonparametric data are represented as median values and analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test.ResultsWhile alpha diversity analysis found no significant changes in the mean abundance of the gut microbiota of children after a short course of antibiotic treatment, beta diversity analysis demonstrated significant changes in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota of children even after a short course of antibiotic therapy. We also found that meloxicillin sulbactam can inhibit the growth of Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Verrucomicrobia, ceftriaxone inhibits Verrucomicrobia and Bacteroides, and azithromycin inhibits Fusobacteria, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Verrucomicrobia. We further performed a comparative analysis at the genus level and found significantly different clusters in each group. Finally, we found that azithromycin had the greatest effect on the metabolic function of intestinal microbiota, followed by ceftriaxone, and no significant change in the metabolic process of intestinal microbiota after meloxicillin sulbactam treatment.ConclusionsAntibiotic treatment significantly affects the diversity of intestinal microbiota in children, even after a short course of antibiotic treatment. Different classes of antibiotics affect diverse microbiota primarily, leading to varying alterations in metabolic function. Meanwhile, we identified a series of intestinal microbiota that differed significantly after antibiotic treatment. These groups of microbiota could be used as biomarkers to provide an additional basis for diagnosing and treating antibiotic-associated diseases.

Disparities in access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services and the status of SDG-6 implementation across districts and states in India

IntroductionAccess to affordable and improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities is essential for people's daily lives, and it is the primary goal of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG-6). However, achieving this goal is a significant challenge for many countries, including India. The aim of this study is to assess the progress made towards achieving SDG-6 targets in Indian districts, states, and Union Territories (UTs) and to identify clusters by measuring spatial inequality of WASH coverage in India. Aim and objectiveThe primary objective of this study is to measure the progress made towards achieving the SDG-6 targets for WASH facilities in Indian districts, states, and UTs. To fulfill this objective, the study used the household data of the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) conducted from 2019 to 21. Data and methodsThe study used the household data of NFHS-5, which is a nationally representative survey that provides information on household and individual-level characteristics related to health and nutrition. The study identified the variables associated with WASH and created a composite index to measure WASH coverage separately and combined. The study used Gini coefficient to show WASH inequality, and Moran's statistics were used to show spatial dependency. ResultThe study found that the inequality of improved water coverage sources in Indian districts was high. Western and northeastern districts need to catch up in terms of achieving the SDG-6 targets. The value of the Gini coefficient (0.29) indicates that inequality in sanitation coverage is also high. All states have reached close to SDG-6 achievement in hygiene indicators. Goa, Sikkim, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep are close to the overall WASH coverage achievements of SDG-6. However, Jharkhand, Orissa, Tripura, Assam, and Rajasthan are behind in meeting the goal of SDG-6. ConclusionThe study suggests that more government initiatives and investments are needed to increase the availability, accessibility, and affordability of WASH facilities to improve WASH conditions in western and northeastern Indian districts. The localization or bottom-up approach by giving responsibility to rural and urban local bodies can also help enforce the achievement of SDG-6. The findings of this study can be used to guide policymakers in developing targeted interventions to improve WASH conditions and reduce inequality in India.

Bhutan's Three-Pronged Strategy, Stifled Democracy and Human Rights Concerns

The assessment of human rights and social justice in Bhutan reveals numerous challenges. Developmental disparities are stark, with significant resources directed towards the western districts, home to the ruling elites. This exacerbates the development lag in the southern, eastern, and central districts. Tourism mainly benefits the western areas, concentrating the majority of tourists there and leaving limited opportunities for other regions. Gender inequality persists, with women underrepresented in political and leadership positions. Girls continue to face harassment in public, molestation in schools, and violence at home, without targeted political interventions. Ethnic minorities, religious groups, and residents of remote regions remain marginalized. Despite internal discontent and international pressure leading to a nominal political transition from an absolute monarchy to a democratic constitutional monarchy, the underlying power dynamics have not significantly shifted. There is a trend towards increased authoritarianism, surveillance, and opacity. Citizens advocating for democratic rights remain imprisoned for over three decades, despite the rulers' nominal embrace of democracy. While democratic institutions have been established, the monarchy wields more influence than before through the secret police (De-Suung), election interventions via the interim government, curtailing elected governments' autonomy, and preventing the introduction of ‘royal annuity bills’ in parliament to regulate the royal budget. This strategy has created a systematic authoritarian regime, cloaked as a constitutional monarchy for over sixteen years. Civil society organizations exist, but their leadership, often from the royal family, limits their effectiveness in addressing ordinary citizens' needs. These issues highlight profound governance, development, and gender equality challenges in Bhutan.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practices toward malaria in the Lunglei district, Mizoram, North-East India

BackgroundThe western districts of Mizoram (Lunglei, Mamit, and Lawngtlai) are malaria hotspots. Understanding the knowledge, attitude, and practices of the tribal communities in Mizoram’s western districts will aid the development of specific interventions.MethodsAn explanatory sequential mixed-method study was conducted from April to November 2023 in the Lunglei district. In a community-based cross-sectional survey of 353 participants, the knowledge, attitude, practices, and care-seeking behaviour toward malaria were assessed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analysed using SPSS version 29 software; univariate variables were presented in percentage, and bivariate and multivariate variables were analysed using the chi-square test and logistic regression, respectively. This was followed by in-depth telephonic interviews of twelve participants, and the data was analysed using NVivo.ResultsOut of the 353 respondents, 77.9%, 82.7%, 55.5%, and 63.2% of the participants had good knowledge, attitude, practices, and care-seeking behaviour, respectively. The in-depth qualitative interviews highlighted the villagers’ good knowledge of the various aspects of malaria transmission, treatment, and prevention practices (indoor residual spraying and use of insecticide-treated nets).ConclusionHigh disease endemicity, awareness programmes and vector control interventions might be contributing to the overall good knowledge, attitude, and practices toward malaria among the villagers. In addition to vector control measures, active parasite surveillance is key to malaria control in this region.

Prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminth infections among school-aged children in five districts in Uganda.

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections, commonly caused by roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworms (Trichuris trichiura), and hookworms (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale), were widespread among Ugandan schoolchildren in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Since 2003, the Ugandan Ministry of Health has administered biannual preventive chemotherapy to children aged 1-14 years to control these infections. Twenty years after the program's inception, there is scant data to show the long-term impact of these national deworming efforts. To estimate the prevalence and intensity of STH infections among 10-14-year-old primary school children, school-based, cross-sectional surveys were conducted in November 2023 across five districts (Kamwenge, Sheema, Adjumani, Lamwo, and Zombo). Sixty-five children from five schools per district were selected for inclusion. Fecal egg counts were determined using the Kato-Katz microscopy technique, performed in duplicate by trained laboratory technicians. The survey findings revealed a high prevalence of any STH infection in Kamwenge District (21.2%, 95% confidence limits (CL): 5.7%, 36.6%), while the remaining four districts exhibited lower prevalences, ranging from 0.4% (95% CL: 0.0%, 1.2%) in Adjumani District to 5.6% (95% CL: 0.0%, 11.4%) in Sheema District. The prevalence of moderate-to-heavy-intensity infections was below 1% across all districts. A. lumbricoides was identified infrequently. Hookworm infections were primarily identified in the western districts of Kamwenge and Sheema, while T. trichiura infections were common only in Kamwenge District. Hookworm and T. trichiura infections were uncommon in the northern districts of Adjumani, Lamwo, and Zombo. These surveys suggest that morbidity due to STH infections among schoolchildren may be well controlled in these five districts, as evidenced by low moderate-to-heavy-intensity infection prevalence. However, the prevalence of any intensity infection remains elevated in some districts, indicating the need for continued preventive chemotherapy distribution. A reduction from biannual treatment may be warranted in four districts, per World Health Organization recommendations.

Assessing groundwater fluoride contamination scenario in West Bengal, India: A combined approach using meta-analysis, current research, and health risk evaluation

The present study was initiated by the findings of a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis, which synthesized all available literature on the patterns and trends of groundwater fluoride (F−) contamination in West Bengal, India. This investigation aimed to provide detailed information on F− contamination at the block level within the state, which is essential for effective monitoring and alleviation efforts addressing the acute and evolving human health concerns in affected areas. This study focuses on the six districts (South 24 Parganas, West Medinipur, Jhargram, East Bardhaman, West Bardhaman and Murshidabad) of West Bengal. Findings from more than 3000 datasets revealed that approximately 10%, 11%, 4%, and 14% of groundwater samples exceeded the safe limit of F− (1.5 mgL−1) from South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, West Bardhaman, and Murshidabad district, respectively. Notably 3% of samples from West Bardhaman displayed class V toxicity where F− concentrations exceeding >10 mgL−1. This research introduces an initial assessment of F− concentrations in groundwater from nine newly identified F− contaminated blocks (Baruipur, Sonarpur, Binpur II, Salanpur, Baraboni, Jamuriya, Pandabeswar, Kandi and Khargram) within the region. Overall, 65 blocks from ten districts have been recognized as F− contaminated zones in West Bengal till 2023. The non-cancerous health risk was found to be disproportionately higher in the western districts (Jhargram, West Bardhaman, and western part of Murshidabad) compared to their southeastern counterparts (East Bardhaman, Paschim Medinipur, and South 24 Parganas). A demographic analysis of health risk indicated infants as the most susceptible group to F− toxicity. The probabilistic health risk at P95 dose for eight blocks further corroborated the heightened vulnerability of infants. These insights offer critical implications for the policy-makers, suggesting an urgent need for tailored health policies to mitigate the risk associated with F− contamination in West Bengal.

GEOSPATIAL MONITORING OF THE ROAD NETWORK OF THE DNIPROPETROV REGION

The development of the road transport network is considered to be one of the crucial factors of the sustainable development of the country and regions. The presence of an extensive and topologically efficient road network and their appropriate technical condition ensure not only transport accessibility of settlements and road safety and stability, but also the speed and volume of transportation. The geographical location of Dnipropetrovsk oblast determines the important role of the region's road transport network in the formation of both external and intra-regional socio-economic relations. The oblast's road transport network consists of a few tens of thousands of kilometres of roads of various types of surfaces, and it has a complex internal structure, specific organization, and functional orientation. Therefore, geospatial monitoring of roads in Dnipropetrovsk oblast is an effective instrument for solving a number of regional transportation problems. On the basis of crowdsourced geospatial data from Open Street Map using QGIS, the study of spatial and territorial features of networks (road length, level of spatial complexity, structure, provision, stability, density, etc.) of different types of roads both for the oblast as a whole and over its administrative districts was conducted. The calculation of the total length of the region's roads using geospatial analysis showed a figure of 70823 km (all types of pavement), of which 3005 km are roads of national importance (4% of the total length), 33219 km are roads of local importance (47%) and 34599 km are roads in settlements (49%). It has been established that the structure of the state-owned road network in the oblast varies from a centralized type in the western (with a central hub in the city of Kryvyi Rih), northern (with a central hub in the village of Mahdalynivka) and north-eastern (with a central hub in the city of Pavlohrad) parts to a distributed type in other regions. It should be noted that the centralized structure of the western part of the region is formed by national and regional roads, the northern part by territorial roads, and the north-eastern part by international and territorial roads. This plays an important role in assessing the efficiency and sustainability of the network. The length of state roads of the territorial type in the region significantly dominates the length of international and national roads, which, given the European integration orientation of Ukraine's economy, indicates shortcomings in the state of the region's road transport network. At the same time, almost all international roads pass through the oblast's cities and towns, which does not meet the requirements for this type of road. Therefore, given the favourable geographical location of the oblast, the formation of a new network of highways through its territory will ensure intensive socio-economic development of both the region and Ukraine as a whole. The average density of the national highway network is only 0.0049 km/km². This is several times less than the rate used in developed countries for citywide highways. The hot spots on the map are connected with the intersections of roads of different levels and are mostly located outside the territories of settlements. This allows us to conclude that the road network framework is a compromise between the historical location of settlements, natural and geographical features of the territory (terrain, hydrology, geological structure, etc.) and construction cost constraints. The length of local roads is several times longer than the length of national roads. As a result, their average density for the region is 1.04 km/km², with the highest concentration in the central parts of the region and the lowest in the east and south of the region. The analysis of the region's roads by administrative units (raions) confirmed their geospatial diversity. The longest roads are observed in the most economically developed districts – Dnipro and Kryvyi Rih raions, and the shortest – in Pavlohrad and Nikopol raions. The same tendency is typical for local roads and roads in the settlements of the raions. However, the longest roads of national importance are in Synelnykove, Dnipro and Kamianske raions. All types of roads in the raions of the eastern and north-eastern parts of the oblast (Novomoskovsk, Pavlohrad, and Synelnykove) are characterized by the highest figures for total density, demonstrating the best transport provision of roads in Dnipropetrovsk oblast in contrast to the western districts. The main reason for this is the low population size in the east of the oblast. Keywords: geospatial monitoring, road network, network structure, transport availability, road density, Dnipropetrovsk region.

In The Missouri Court Of Appeals Western District

In The Missouri Court Of Appeals Western District

Reading habits of undergraduate students in the digital environment: a gender perspective

Purpose The purpose of this study is to understand the role and impact of gender on reading habits. It is an attempt to explore the probable reason why or why not gender differences take place concerning reading time, reading purpose, reading resources and digital devices among undergraduate students in the digital environment. Design/methodology/approach For this study, the researcher used a survey-based approach. To accomplish the study’s goals, a meticulously designed questionnaire has been disseminated among undergraduate students in selected colleges located in the western district of Tripura, a northeastern state in India. Findings The study found that female respondents have a slightly higher level of liking for reading than males. For both genders, the major purpose of reading is to enhance their knowledge unvaryingly. Furthermore, it has been observed that female respondents read electronic and print reading material more frequently compared to their male counterparts. Female respondents read fiction more frequently than males in print form. Both genders have more ease in reading print resources than digital resources. Among all digital devices, respondents are most competent at using mobile devices and prefer them for digital reading. Research limitations/implications As part of the pilot study, investigators surveyed a limited sample population, where the participation of students was further lower because of the unavailability of students. Originality/value The gender-based level of competency with digital devices is studied as a variable among the adult population to measure its correlation with reading habits.

Deconstructing the Blueprint for Infringement: Remedying Flawed Interpretations of the § 120(a) Exception to Architecture Copyrights

Deconstructing the Blueprint for Infringement: Remedying Flawed Interpretations of the § 120(a) Exception to Architecture Copyrights

Viacrozmerná analýza populačného starnutia v okresoch Slovenska v rokoch 2011 a 2021

Population ageing is a typical feature of population development in the majority of countries in the world. In each population, this process is specific – whether in terms of the timing of its onset or the factors that modify the process of population ageing. The main aim of this article is to identify the processes of population ageing in the districts of Slovakia. A regional analysis of this process focused on population ageing in Slovak districts in the years 2011 and 2021 using cluster analysis. The results of the cluster analysis of population ageing identified northern and eastern Slovakia as districts whose populations have a younger age structure. The western and southwestern districts of Slovakia have populations with an old age structure. In 2021, this age polarity began to change the territory of Slovakia. The suburbanised region of the capital, Bratislava, is becoming significant, as the population in the districts there is getting younger.

Modelling climate change impacts on the spatial distribution of anthrax in Zimbabwe

BackgroundIn Zimbabwe, anthrax is endemic with outbreaks being reported almost annually in livestock, wildlife, and humans over the past 40 years. Accurate modelling of its spatial distribution is key in formulating effective control strategies. In this study, an Ensemble Species Distribution Model was used to model the current and future distribution of anthrax occurrence in Zimbabwe.MethodsBioclimatic variables derived from the Beijing Climate Centre Climate System Model were used to model the disease. Collinearity testing was conducted on the 19 bioclimatic variables and elevation to remove redundancy. Variables that had no collinearity were used for anthrax habitat suitability modelling. Two future climate change scenarios for different Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP), RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 were used. Model evaluation was done using true skill, Kappa statistics and receiver operating characteristics.ResultsThe results showed that under current bioclimatic conditions, eastern and western districts of Zimbabwe were modelled as highly suitable, central districts moderately suitable and southern parts marginally suitable for anthrax occurrence. Future predictions demonstrated that the suitable (8%) and highly suitable (7%) areas for anthrax occurrence would increase under RCP4.5 scenario. In contrast, a respective decrease (11%) and marginal increase (0.6%) of suitable and highly suitable areas for anthrax occurrence were predicted under the RCP8.5 scenario. The percentage contribution of the predictors varied for the different scenarios; Bio6 and Bio18 for the current scenario, Bio2, Bio4 and Bio9 for the RCP4.5 and Bio3 and Bio15 for the RCP8.5 scenarios.ConclusionsThe study revealed that areas currently suitable for anthrax should be targeted for surveillance and prevention. The predicted future anthrax distribution can be used to guide and prioritise surveillance and control activities and optimise allocation of limited resources. In the marginally to moderately suitable areas, effective disease surveillance systems and awareness need to be put in place for early detection of outbreaks. Targeted vaccinations and other control measures including collaborative ‘One Health’ strategies need to be implemented in the predicted highly suitable areas. In the southern part where a high decrease in suitability was predicted, continued monitoring would be necessary to detect incursions early.

Inequality and deprivation in an affluent community: A case study of the livelihood of low-income households in Central and Western District, Hong Kong

The Central and Western District (C&W District) of Hong Kong is often associated with prosperity. However, some families in the C&W District, like those in other areas of Hong Kong, face poverty and deprivation. This study implemented purposive sampling and the constructivist grounded theory to investigate the perceptions of and daily challenges faced by underprivileged residents and community stakeholders in the district. This study conducted individual or small group in-depth interviews with 40 residents in 2019. The results revealed that unaffordable housing and poor living environments impeded family cohesiveness. Young people lacked sufficient academic support. Under the government's latest policy direction of “targeted poverty alleviation”, this study recommends that government departments and relevant social stakeholders proactively explore the development of social housing in the district. In addition, community volunteers with English proficiency and other professional skills should be recruited to offer free or affordable tutoring services for underprivileged students.

No Transfer? No Problem!: The Federal Circuit's Excessive Use of the Most Potent Weapon in the Judicial Arsenal for §1404(a) Transfer Appeals

Like all federal plaintiffs, patent owners who feel their patent has been infringed have the right to file suit in any federal court, so long as venue is proper. Patent plaintiffs often select plaintiff-friendly venues, like the Eastern and Western Districts of Texas. Usually, plaintiffs may select these venues because many of the alleged infringers are large companies with a national presence, which makes them susceptible to suit in many federal courts around the country. Defendants in patent cases often file a motion under 28 U.S.C. § 1404(a) to transfer a case to a more defendant-friendly venue, on the basis that the destination venue is more convenient. If the district court denies the motion to transfer, that almost always ends the matter. The exception is that the defendant can petition the proper appellate court—the Federal Circuit in patent cases—for a writ of mandamus: an “extraordinary remedy” that directs the district court to transfer the case. The Supreme Court has mandated that this remedy is reserved for extreme circumstances and may not be used as an appeal. Despite this clear mandate, the Federal Circuit appears to treat such petitions as full-fledged appeals. This Comment seeks to address the ever-growing number of mandamus petitions being granted by the Federal Circuit. Specifically, this Comment focuses on patent cases filed in Texas federal courts. While patent cases in Texas federal courts, like all other patent cases, are appealed to the Federal Circuit, the Federal Circuit remains bound by Fifth Circuit law on motions to transfer under § 1404(a). The Supreme Court and Fifth Circuit have held that a mandamus petition should only be granted upon a clear abuse of discretion by the district court, but the Federal Circuit seems to misapply Fifth Circuit law. The Federal Circuit’s proclivities in determining the propriety of a petition for a writ of mandamus have caused confusion among Texas plaintiffs and uncertainty in the law. This Comment calls attention to the Federal Circuit’s tendency to: (1) misapply Fifth Circuit transfer law; (2) impermissibly add its own nuances to transfer law; and (3) substitute the district court’s judgment for its own, effectively giving defendants a de novo review; or in other words, a second bite at the apple in attempting to transfer a case. Finally, this Comment proposes solutions including: (1) an expansion of Fifth Circuit § 1404(a) jurisprudence; (2) the Supreme Court granting certiorari to provide clarity on the issue; or (3) a change in the Federal Circuit’s choice of law rule.

Exploring Secondary Students' Reading Motivation

Reading is a life-long process, and having the knowledge and skill of reading is an added advantage. Despite its importance, relatively little has been done to examine student reading motivation particularly with Bhutanese secondary students. This study aimed to identify the student factors related to reading motivation. A sample of 155 students using a simple random sampling method was recruited for this study in one Western district of Bhutan. The study was quantitative in design and have utilized a cross-sectional self-reported survey questionnaire for data collection and analyses. The researchers developed the instruments based on relevant literature and were validated by experts from Bhutan and Thailand before the pilot testing. The result of the pilot test yielded internal reliability > 0.7. The findings of the main study showed that students' opinions towards factors related to reading motivation were high with (Mean=3.90). Likewise, the results of the t-test revealed that gender did not differ in the reading motivation, and further, one-way ANOVA tests also did not show a presence of statistically significant differences student’s age, parents work type, parent's level of education and finally, the parent's level of income.

Burden of anxiety in Adolescent: A community-based study in Western Uttar Pradesh

Background: Anxiety is a prevalent issue among adolescents and can adversely affect their academic performance and everyday functioning. Aims & Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of anxiety among adolescents in urban and rural areas and to study the socio-demographic correlates of anxiety among adolescents in urban and rural areas. Methods: A comprehensive survey was conducted in the field practice area of Department of Community Medicine of a Medical College in western district of Uttar Pradesh. The survey was aimed at young people between the ages of 10 and 19 who lived in the practice area of the medical college. Result: The burden of anxiety was observed to be 19.6 % (n=92). Female gender, urban residence, early adolescent age-group (10-13 yr), nuclear family, day-time somnolence and family history of mental illness were factors having statistical significance. Poor education level of parents was also statistically significant. Physical activity and substance abuse did not have significant contribution in burden of anxiety. Conclusion: Anxiety in adolescents is a significant issue influenced by various factors. Early intervention and support are crucial.

Effect of Shifting Cultivation on Soil health and Microbial Diversity in Junnar Taluka of Pune District

Background: Swidden cultivation, slash and burn cultivation, and bush-fallow agriculture are other names for shifting cultivation. Around the world, its name is different. Crop type and farming methods have an impact on the physico-chemical properties of the soil. Soil health is also influenced by the quantity and biomass of microorganisms present.
 Aims: The goal of the current study was to determine how soil bacterial communities and soil quality in Pune district's western ghat region were affected by shifting farming.
 Study Design: 18 soil samples from 4 villages of the Junnar tehsil were collected after harvesting the cultivated crop.
 Place and Duration of Study: The sample was collected within the 2 to 4 acres of the shifting cultivation plots identified in the villages in the western ghat region of Pune district.
 Methodology: The soil samples were collected after harvesting every crop and from the fallow land. Analysis of Physico–Chemical properties of soil samples was performed. Bacteria were isolated and identified from the soil samples. Statistical analysis was done to interpret the obtained results.
 Results: The fallow land and crop (Varai, Khursani, Sawa, Nachani, and Hulga) harvested soils were among the soil samples. Different numbers of ten distinct bacterial genuses were isolated from each soil. When compared to fallow soil, the Total Viable Count (TVC) of the crop harvest soil was shown to have significantly dropped. It was also discovered that certain soil characteristics improved throughout the fallow period.
 Conclusion: The results pointing out the importance of the length of the fallowing on the soil health and thus on the crop yield.

Mapping The Spatial Distribution Of COVID-19 Incidence Using A Geographic Information System

Background : The outbreak of the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, began in Wuhan, China, in January 2020, becoming a sudden public health crisis and a severe threat to lives in most parts of the world. This study aimed to use a Geographic Information System (GIS) to study the spatial distribution of COVID-19 incidence in Ho Chi Minh city. Methods: the histogram was first used to study the distribution of the COVID-19 cases and COVID-19 incidence. A GIS was then employed to map the spatial distribution of the COVID-19 cases and COVID-19 incidence. Finally, the study results were discussed and concluded. Results: a large proportion of COVID-19 infections mainly appeared in districts in the eastern region, then followed by the western districts of the city, while the average rate of infections was concentrated in districts near the city center. Low rates of COVID-19 infection were detected in the northern and southern districts of the city and some central districts of the city. Conclusions: the study results indicated the effectiveness of a GIS for mapping COVID-19 incidence. Findings in this study provide an insight into the spatial distribution of infectious diseases and make great contributions to the control of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Assessing the economic, social and environmental potential of wild and domesticated olive growing options in a far Western District of Nepal

CONTEXTClimate change and extreme weather events undermine smallholder household food and income security in many rural areas of developing countries. Nature-based solutions and the use of climate resilient and nutrient dense Neglected and Underutilized Species into the local farming system have been claimed to sustainably help farmers adapt to climate change and to manage risk more effectively. OBJECTIVEThis paper investigated the potential implementation of three options based on the collective cultivation and management of olive groves and wild forests for production purposes in a mountain region of Nepal. The analysis was aimed at assessing the potential benefits of such strategy in comparison with the status-quo. METHODSThe study conducted an ex-ante simulation exercise for evaluating three options: 1) 1500 ha of new and restored wild forests; 2) 500 ha of olive groves; and 3) A combination of option 1 and 2. We calculated the financial, economic, social, and environmental costs and benefits of such options using agricultural and economic data collected from representative households identified from a sample of 31 small, 9 medium, and 3 large farm households. To conduct the economic, social and environmental analysis (ESE), we calculated the Social Return on Investment and we integrated it into the economic analysis. Then we compared the results to assess which was the most profitable option. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSThe results of the analysis showed that all three proposed options are stable with an Internal Rate of Return always above 27% with values over 100%. The greatest increase in terms of NPV is observed when shifting from the financial to the ESE analysis in options 1, 2, and 3 (+397.5%, +132.0%, +187.2% respectively) as the benefits increase more than the costs. The results further suggested that the integrated option is the most profitable one also in terms of labour generation. Indeed, we observed a substantial increase in the Return to Labour indicator especially in the ESE analysis (from 1.9 in the financial analysis to 2.8 in the economic analysis to 6.0 in the ESE analysis). SIGNIFICANCEThis study provides evidence of the potential that similar strategies based on the use of local resources and species, if properly designed, implemented and managed, may have to restore the ecosystem and enhance the livelihoods of local communities. The most innovative element of this study is the proposed ESE analysis, which takes into account the social and environmental dimension besides the economic one.

Impact of forest governance and enforcement on deforestation and forest degradation at the district level: A study in West Bengal State, India

According to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), the world loses 1.0 ​× ​106 ​hm2 forest land through deforestation annually. About 1.6 ​× ​106 people who depend on forests for livelihood are negatively affected by deforestation and forest degradation. The paper attempts to study the impact of forest governance, enforcement and socio-economic factors on deforestation and forest degradation at the local level in West Bengal State, India. The study was based on questionnaire survey data during 2020–2021 collected from three western districts (Purulia, Bankura, and Paschim Medinipur) where deforestation and poverty rates are higher than other districts in West Bengal State. The total number of selected villages was 29, and the total sample households were 693. A stratified random sampling technique was used to collect data, and a questionnaire was followed. Forest governance and enforcement indices were constructed using United Nation Development Programme (UNDP) methodology and a step-wise logistic regression model was used to identify the factors affecting deforestation and forest degradation. The result of this study showed that four factors (illegal logging, weak forest administration, encroachment, and poverty) are identified for the causes of deforestation and forest degradation. It is observed that six indices of forest governance (rule of law, transparency, accountability, participation, inclusiveness and equitability, and efficiency and effectiveness) is relatively high in Purulia District. Moreover, this study shows that Purulia and Bankura districts follow medium forest governance, while Paschim Medinipur District has poor forest governance. The enforcement index is found to be highest in Purulia District (0.717) and lowest for Paschim Medinipur District (0.257). Finally, weak forest governance, poor socio-economic conditions of the households, and weak enforcement lead to the deforestation and forest degradationin the study area. Therefore, governments should strengthen law enforcement and encourage sustainable forest certification schemes to combat illegal logging.