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Food Insecurity and Mental Health Outcomes among Low Income Households in Southeast Nigeria: A Mixed-Methods Empirical Study
No full textFood insecurity is an escalating concern among low-income households in Southeast Nigeria, with growing recognition of its implications for mental health. This study investigated the relationship between food insecurity and mental health outcomes, focusing on conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychological distress within economically disadvantaged communities. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study collected data from 600 respondents across urban and rural areas in the five southeastern states. Quantitative data were obtained using structured questionnaires and standardized mental health instruments, including the PHQ-9 and GAD-7, while qualitative insights were gathered through key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative analysis was conducted using SPSS and STATA, utilizing descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) to examine the strength and nature of associations between food insecurity and mental health indicators. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was also conducted using NVivo to enrich and contextualize the statistical findings. The study aims to contribute to the growing body of literature on the intersection of nutrition and psychological well-being in low-resource settings. It emphasized the importance of integrating food security and mental health strategies in policy and community interventions. Recommendations reached were directed at policymakers, healthcare providers, and development agencies to implement holistic approaches, including food support programs, mental health services integration, public-private partnerships to improve food access, and income-generating initiatives to enhance household resilience
Study on Sensory Properties and Cost of Production of Bhapa Dahi Prepared by Utilization of Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) Pulp
No full textThe research study was conducted at the Dairy Science Laboratory of Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, Dist. Ratnagiri (M.S.) to study the utilization of jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) pulp for preparation of Bhapa dahi. Jackfruit is a nutrient-dense tropical fruit commonly found in India. It offers multiple health benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. In present investigation, Bhapa dahi was prepared using chakka and condensed milk (prepared from cow milk) in 50:50 (by w/w basis) with jackfruit pulp. Jackfruit pulp was used at five levels i.e., 0 % (T0), 10 % (T1), 20 % (T2), 30% (T3) and 40% (T4). The 15% sugar (on the basis of weight of base mix) was used for preparation of Bhapa dahi. Studied for its sensory attributes such as colour and appearance, body and texture, flavour and overall acceptability was carried out by ten panelists using 9-point hedonic scale. It was found that utilization of jackfruit pulp at 20% was best with overall acceptability score of 8.34. The cost of production of most acceptable treatment i.e. Bhapa dahi using 20% jackfruit pulp is Rs.175.85/ kg. Also it may conclude that utilization of jackfruit pulp for preparation of Bhapa dahi can be successfully improved sensory properties of Bhapa dahi
Fish Diversity and Abundance in Relation to Water Quality of Maroda Reservoir, Chhattisgarh, India
No full textThis comprehensive study examined the diversity, abundance, and richness of freshwater fish species in Maroda Reservoir, Chhattisgarh, through monthly sampling conducted from August 2024 to April 2025 across three designated sites. The investigation documented 23 fish species representing 9 orders and 11 families, with Cypriniformes emerging as the dominant order containing 11 species, followed by Siluriformes with 5 species. Multiple diversity indices were calculated, including Simpson\u27s Dominance Index, Shannon-Weiner Index, and Simpson\u27s Index of Diversity to quantitatively assess fish community structure. Concurrent water quality monitoring measured critical parameters, including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, hardness, chloride, nitrate, and phosphate concentrations across seasonal variations. Results demonstrated that physicochemical conditions remained within acceptable ranges for supporting diverse fish populations. However, the reservoir ecosystem faces mounting pressures from anthropogenic activities, including domestic sewage discharge, agricultural runoff, livestock farming, and industrial pollution, compounded by invasive species establishment and progressive eutrophication. The findings underscore the necessity for implementing integrated watershed management strategies, pollution control mechanisms, habitat restoration programs, sustainable fisheries practices, invasive species management, and community-based conservation initiatives to preserve this valuable aquatic resource for future generations.
 
Nephroprotective Effects of Capparis spinosa L. Leaves Against Streptomycin- and CCl₄-Induced Renal Injury in Rats
No full textTo evaluate the nephroprotective efficacy of Capparis spinosa L. leaves against Streptomycin-induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats. The leaf powder was extracted with 95% ethanol (maceration method) to produce EECSL (Ethanolic extract Capparis spinosa leaves). The extract was tested in rats to determine its LD50 (lethal dose). Furthermore, the extract was subjected to early photochemical evaluation experiments. The extract was next tested for nephroprotective efficacy in a variety of experimental conditions, including streptomycin and Ccl4 in rats. Different parameters in serum, such as urea, uric acid, creatinine, total protein, and albumin, are analyzed using the nephrotic model. Streptomycin, a standard antibiotic, was employed as the reference compound in all models. When the extract was tested for LD50, none of them caused aberrant behavior or mortality in rats, even at the highest dose level of 2000 mg/kg body weight. Streptomycin, EELPN-treated groups were compared to Streptomycin, and Ccl4-induced nephrotoxicity in rats dramatically increases biomarkers such as urea, creatinine, and uric acid levels. Total protein and albumin levels are significantly decreased. The prepared extract brings the values extremely close to normal levels. EELPN demonstrated a much higher percentage inhibition of DPPH and lipid peroxidation scavenging efficacy than ascorbic acid. The histopathological alterations include haemorrhage and tubular necrosis. Were partially or completely prevented
Occupational Risks of Microplastics in Textile Manufacturing: Health Impacts and Mitigation Strategies
No full textBackground: In the textile sector, the atmospheric release of MPs during the manufacturing, drying and use of synthetic fabrics has also been observed, in addition to the sewing process, where small structural changes in the fabric network favor the release of polyester and polypropylene fibrils In this context, the present study aimed to discuss, through a literature review, occupational exposure to MPs in the textile manufacturing sector.
Methodology: This study was characterized as a descriptive bibliographic review, focusing on the search for theoretical references in scientific journals, theses and dissertations.
Results and Conclusions: To reduce employee exposure, it is important to properly use personal protective equipment, including face masks, which reduce exposure to microfibers in the oral and nasal mucosa, reducing the possibility of ingestion and inhalation of these. Furthermore, an adequate ventilation and exhaust system makes it possible to remove suspended particles from the work atmosphere, and must be combined with filters to prevent release into the factory\u27s external environmental, as they mitigate the exposure of the upper respiratory tract and mouth to microplastics released into the environment
In vitro Evaluation of Biocontrol Agents against Leaf Spot Disease of Okra Caused by Cercospora sp.
No full textOkra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is an important vegetable crop that cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is mostly grown for its delicate fruit, stem, flower and bud. Like other crop, okra is also attacked by many diseases. Among all diseases, leaf spot is major disease which causes heavy loss to the crop. During isolation and identification it was identified as Cercospora and varied in their cultural and morphological character. Pathogenecity test was also proved by using Koch’s postulates. During course of study, 4 bio control agents were evaluated under in vitro condition for their effectiveness. Among all bio control agents Bacillus subtilis showed maximum inhibition at different time intervals of 68.14 %, 76.00 %, 81.17 % at 72 hrs, 120hrs, 168 hrs respectively followed by Trichoderma harzianum with 66.02 %, 72.27% and 77.25 % respectively at 72hrs, 120 hrs, 168 hrs. Similarly other bio control agents –Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescens were also found effective with inhibition of 62.60 %, 70.74%, 76.24% and 60.20%, 69.45%, 75.05% respectively at 72hrs, 120hrs, and 168hrs. The result from present investigation revealed that Bacillus subtilis was found most effective in the suppression of pathogen growth. In future investigations, this bio-control agent might be further assessed for the effective treatment of okra leaf spot disease
Animal Cruelty against Dogs and Cats: Characterization of the Victim and the Perpetrator in a Retrospective Study
No full textThe rise in animal cruelty crimes has become a significant social issue, largely due to increasing awareness of animal sentience. Research highlights a strong correlation between animal cruelty cases and psychological disorders in perpetrators, suggesting that violent behavior may, in some cases, be predictable. This study aims to analyze cases of animal cruelty treated at the public veterinary service in Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, examining the characteristics of the animal victims and the profiles of the perpetrators to promote awareness of animal protection. This study analyzed 10 animal cruelty cases reported in Goiânia (August-November 2023), documenting victim profiles, clinical evaluations, and case outcomes. Necessary interventions for each individual were described, considering the severity and specific needs of the patients. Among the 10 cases analyzed, three involved rescues carried out by public agencies with support from the Animal Protection Group of the Civil Police of Goiás. Five cases were referred to by animal protection advocates, and two were reported by local residents. The results revealed a higher prevalence of such crimes involving adult male dogs, accounting for 62.5% of cases. Of the cruelty types, 80% involved physical abuse or aggression, with 70% of these cases showing traumatic injuries identified during examinations, as well as conditions such as dehydration and ectoparasite infestations. The characterization of the perpetrators indicated a predominance of male individuals, Caucasian, aged over 40 years. Despite ongoing efforts, the low reporting rate highlights the urgent need for stronger public policies and awareness campaigns
Innovative Techniques in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
No full textWith the growing number of studies, continuous advancements in learning practices have been introduced for children with autism. Whether it is therapeutics or technology-based, these advancements are embracing the autistic population and allowing autistic children to experience learning in ways that would not have been possible before, such as through virtual reality and interactive touch-screen devices. This is helping to bridge the gap between autistic and non-autistic learning experiences. To overcome limited social interaction, poor communication skills, negligible eye contact, isolation tendency, and developmental delays of autistic children. Numerous therapy-based techniques (speech, behavioural, art, etc.) and technology-based techniques (intervention programs and learning applications) were introduced. These techniques help autistic children practice social and communication skills in a safe, structured atmosphere. They also help to improve engagement time, language, and cognitive skills. With technology, autistic children can practice problem-solving and organisation in a more accessible and engaging way. This paper aims to study recent advancements and prior knowledge of autism to evaluate the findings of therapy and technology-based tools and techniques on the behaviour of children with autism disorder. It focuses on identifying the potential benefits of technology in providing a tailored, interactive learning experience to autistic children. It will be beneficial for the parents and caregivers of children with ASD to select the appropriate technique for these children as per their requirements
Cervical Cutaneous Fistula of Odontogenic Origin in a Dog: A Case Report
No full textCutaneous odontogenic fistulas are pathological connections between the oral cavity and the animal\u27s skin, caused by chronic dental infection. Due to their diverse cutaneous manifestations, they can be misdiagnosed or diagnosed late, which may lead to inadequate and unnecessary treatments. A dog with a history of draining cutaneous lesions underwent several unsuccessful surgical and dermatological interventions. During veterinary dental care, erythematous cutaneous lesions were observed in the mandibular region that extended to a draining fistula in the middle third of the neck, leading to the suspicion that it was a cutaneous odontogenic fistula despite its atypical location. The definitive diagnosis was reached by means of intraoral dental radiography, revealing a periapical abscess in a mandibular molar tooth, which had communication with the cervical fistula. The condition in the dog was completely resolved after tooth extraction, revealing the importance of considering odontogenic infections in the differential diagnosis of atypical skin lesions in the head and neck region
The Role of Google Earth Engine in Flood Disaster Management: A Review of Capabilities and Challenges
No full textThis article provides a comprehensive overview of flood mapping using Google Earth Engine (GEE), emphasizing its significance in disaster management and mitigation. Flood mapping is crucial for understanding risks and preparing for flood events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. GEE\u27s advanced capabilities in processing and analyzing vast datasets of satellite imagery offer a potent tool for rapid and accurate flood mapping. Studies reviewed demonstrate GEE\u27s application in various contexts, highlighting its effectiveness in generating timely and precise flood maps using methodologies like image processing techniques, machine learning algorithms, and hydrological modeling. Challenges such as technical complexity and data availability are noted, alongside the potential for future advancements integrating AI and big data analytics to enhance flood risk management strategies. The paper underscores GEE\u27s role in advancing flood mapping efforts, contributing to better preparedness and response to flood disasters worldwide