bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the DiagnosticAccuracy of Common Balance Measurement Tools in Community-Dwelling OlderAdults
Authors: Meimandi Mahsa , Taghizadeh Ghorban , Moulodi Bahman , Azad Akram
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Balance screening has been identified as a major predictor of falls in the elderly. The current study compares the diagnostic accuracy of various balance instruments in community-dwelling older adults.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 145 older adults were recruited. The Berg balance scale (BBS), Fullerton advanced balance (FAB) scale, dynamic gait index (DGI), performance-oriented mobility assessment (POMA), timed up and go (TUG) test, gait speed, step length, step test, and single item question were administered. The receiver operating characteristics curve analysis was used to calculate diagnostic accuracy.
Results: All single-item tools had moderate diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]=0.76-0.89) and all multi-item tools had high diagnostic accuracy (AUC=0.91-0.95) when using the recommended cut-off point of 45 for BBS. All multi-item tools maintained high to moderate diagnostic accuracy (AUC=0.85-1.00) in all thresholds while using BBS severity cut-off points. The FAB scale showed the highest diagnostic accuracy (AUC=0.95) among all assessment tools. Single-item question scores (Wald=22.61, df=1, P=0.0001, Exp(B)=8.82) were significant as covariates in the regression model.
Conclusion: For older adults with or without a history of falling, the FAB scale demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy. Along with single-item tools, the FAB scale may be a preferred multi-item tool.
Son Zamanlarda Gündeme Gelen İnanç Problemlerine Dair Din Eğitimi Açısından Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: SAYAN Yunus Emre , GÜNEL Mehmet Emin
Published: December 2022

Allah’ın varlığını kabul veya ret insanın hayata bakışını tümden etkileyen bir olgudur. Toplumlar huzur ve düzenlerinin devamı için sahip oldukları inancın kendilerinden sonraki nesil tarafından da sürdürülmesini istemektedirler. Allah’a iman eden bir ebeveynin ateist olmuş çocuklarıyla iletişimi ve sağlıklı diyalogu güçtür. Bu noktada son dönemde artışa geçtiği iddia edilen ateizm, deizm gibi tanrının varlığına yönelik inanç sapmaları dini ve kültürel değerlerine bağlı bir toplumun fertlerini kaygılandırmaktadır. Günümüz Türkiye’sinde gündeme gelen Allah’ın varlığına yönelik inanç problemlerini tespit ederek eğitimcilerin bu problemlere yaklaşımını teorik çerçevede ele almayı amaçlayan, dokümantasyon yöntemiyle hazırlanan çalışmada, alanyazındaki araştırmalar taranarak, mevcut durumun fotoğrafını çekip tespit edilen soru ve sorunlara çözüm önerileri ortaya konmaya çalışılmıştır. Son zamanlarda ortaya çıkan inanç problemlerinin birçok sebebi olsa da bunlar arasında ailenin, eğitimcilerin ve öğrenme ortamlarının rolü daha çok öne çıkmaktadır. Bu çalışmada özellikle problemin aile, eğitim ortamları ve eğitimcilerin yöntem ve üsluplarından kaynaklanan yönlerine dikkat çekilmesi amaçlandı. Her bir sorun alanına yönelik tespitler yapılarak bu sorunların çözümüne yönelik öneriler geliştirilmeye çalışılmıştır.
İbn Teymiyye’den Önce Kur’ân’ın Kur’ân’la Tefsirini Bir Metot Olarak Öneren Âlim: Ebû Bekir İbnü’l-Arabî
Authors: YALNIZ Fatma
Published: December 2022

Literatürde Kur’ân’ın Kur’ân’la tefsirini bir metot olarak ilk sırada zikreden kişinin İbn Teymiyye olduğu yönünde hâkim bir kanaat mevcuttur. İbn Teymiyye, Mukaddime fî usûli’t-tefsîr’de ortaya koyduğu delil hiyerarşisinde bu metodu en öne almaktadır. Ancak ondan iki asır önce yaşayan Ebû Bekir İbnü’l-Arabî de önerdiği tefsir metotları içinde ilk sırada aynı metoda atıf yapmaktadır. Bu tespitten hareketle makalede, Kur’ân’ın Kur’ân’la tefsiri metoduna kısaca değinildikten sonra İbnü’l-Arabi’nin Kânûnu’t-Te’vîl’i hakkında kısa bir bilgi verilmekte ve onun bu metodu ele alma biçimi irdelenmektedir. Bu konu kapsamında her iki müellifin metodunun da müşterek ve muhtelif yanları ortaya konulmaktadır. Buna ilaveten müelliflerin bu metodu ilk sıraya almalarından kaynaklanan problemlere ilişkin bulgular paylaşılmaktadır. Son olarak, iki müellifin de adı geçen metodu ilk sıraya almalarının muhtemel nedenleri üzerinde durulmaktadır. Bu arka planda çalışmanın amacı, klasik dönemde tefsir metotları içinde Kur’ân’ın Kur’ân’la tefsirini İbn Teymiyye’den önce ilk sırada zikreden bir başka âlimin bulunduğunu ortaya koymak ve bu çerçevede bir analiz gerçekleştirmektir. Veri ve içerik analizi çerçevesinde İbnü’l-Arabî’nin Kânûnu’t-Te’vîli’nde ve İbn Teymiyye’nin Mukaddime’sinde Kur’ân’ın Kur’ân’la tefsiri bağlamındaki muhteva analiz edilmiş, ortaklık ve farklılıkları açısından mukayeseli incelemeye tabi tutulmuştur.
Effect of Contract Management Practices on Procurement Performance a Case of Nyarugenge District
Authors: Jolly Kyarisiima
Published: December 2022

The objective of the study was to investigate the contract management practices on the procurement performance. Specifically, the study sought to; to establish the relationship between compliance to technical specifications and procurement performance at Nyarugenge District; to assess the influence of resources allocation & utilization on the procurement performance at Nyarugenge District and to examine the role of contract terms & conditions in enhancing procurement performance at Nyarugenge District. This study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population for this study was 127 comprising both staff of Nyarugenge District head office and contractors. The study used a sample size of 105 and applied stratified and simple random sampling methods in generating the sample. The study used a primary data collected using a questionnaire. Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) computer software for data analysis was used to conduct the data analysis task. The statistics generated included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The qualitative data generated from open ended questions were categorized in themes in accordance with research objectives and reported in narrative form along with quantitative presentation. A correlation model was used to test the significance of the influence of the independent variables on the dependent variable. It was notable that there existed a strong positive relationship between the independent variables and dependent variable. The studied variables were very significant therefore needed to be considered in any effort to boost procurement performance. Based on the study findings, the study concluded that procurement performance of Nyarugenge District was affected by contract management practices. Therefore, other factors affecting performance needed to be established. These may include the legal framework, and staff competency among others needs further investigation.

Keywords: Contract management practices, Procurement Performance
Determinants of uptake of biofortified crop varieties by smallholder farmers in Uganda
Authors:   Makerere University, Bashaasha B , Emegu RI , Webb P ,   Tufts University, Ghosh S , Kabunga N , Agaba E
Published: December 2022

Hunger and malnutrition can be said to be one of the important global problems that have recently been exacerbated by climate change and environmental degradation. Meanwhile, an estimated two billion people suffer from micronutrient malnutrition, mostly due to low intake of vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc. Biofortification, an agricultural technology that can increase the micronutrient content of staples, may confer large benefits to rural families and poor children with limited access to expensive high-quality foods. Possible pathways include own-consumption when directly consumed, the income pathway when they are sold and/or the food price pathway when they increase the availability of micronutrient-rich foods in the market place. This research aims to understand the factors associated with the uptake of biofortified crop varieties (BCV) among smallholder farmers in Uganda and derive policy information to support their accelerated uptake. The analysis used two waves of panel data consisting of 6,400 observations collected from 6 districts in Uganda as part of the Feed the Future (FtF) innovation laboratory for nutrition. Descriptive analysis was used to help discern the differences between adopters and non-adopters of BCV. Double hurdle regression analysis was used to understand the factors associated with adoption and the intensity of adoption of biofortified crop varieties. Descriptive results reveal significant differences between adopters and non-adopters of BCV. Double hurdle regression analysis results indicate that the primary determinants of uptake of biofortified crop varieties include geographical location, extension staff visits, household size, and mobile phone ownership. Other important factors associated with the adoption of BCV include the amount of land owned by the household. Results suggest that extension staff visits, and mobile phone ownership were important sources of information for rural households that appear to drive the decision to adopt biofortified crop varieties. Meanwhile, household size, regional location of the household and total land owned were important motivators in adopting BCV technology. From the present analysis, it was not possible to clearly discern the key drivers of the intensity of adoption of biofortified crop varieties among smallholder households in Uganda. Key words: Biofortification, smallholder farmers, quasi experimental design, double-hurdle regression, Uganda
Effect of trichoderma formulated with cultivated oyster mushroom waste toward the growth and yield of shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.)
Authors:   Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo, Tjahjanti PH , Prihatiningrum AE , Miftahurrohmat A
Published: December 2022

The utilization of oyster mushroom waste as an organic fertilizer for onion cultivation in former rice fields frequently encounters soil acidity problems. This experiment aims to determine the effect of administering Trichoderma biofertilizer, formulated with Oyster Mushroom Waste (OMW) on the growth and yield of shallots. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse setting and a completely randomized design with four replications was employed, each experimental unit having six plants. Seeds were planted in a 5 kg capacity polybag containing sterile planting media soil of pH 4.85. The experimental treatments consisted of three types of Trichoderma biofertilizers, each containing a different isolate of the fungi (Tc-Jjr-02, Tc-Pjn-01, and Tc-Clk-02), oyster mushrooms waste fertilizer and the only soil. Each isolates formulated in oyster mushrooms waste through the biofertilizer treatment contained a uniform spore population of 0.375x106 CFU.g-1. Data were collected on plant height, number of leaves per plant, fresh and dry mass of stover, number of tillers per plant, tuber weight, tuber diameter, soil pH, and the population of each Trichoderma isolate at harvest time. The data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The significant differences between treatments were determined using the Honest Significant Difference test at the 5% level. Based on the growth and yield, the amount of increase for each treatment was calculated compared to the treatment of oyster mushrooms waste fertilizer. Subsequently, the types of isolate and their phylogenetic classes were determined. The results showed that the Trichoderma biofertilizer formulated in OMW affected plant height and number of leaves at 7-28 DAP (p<0.05), fresh weight and dry weight of stover, number of tuber shoot, and tuber weight (p<0.01), tuber diameter (p<0.05), soil pH at six weeks after planting and one week before harvest (p<0.05), and also Trichoderma population (p<0.05). These three types of this biofertilizer can increase stover fresh weight of shallot between 13.97-52.05%, dry stover weight 67.76-151.42%, number of tillers 44.75-47.00%, heavy fresh tuber 20.31-28.13%, and tuber diameter 3.13-10.97%. The three isolates of the biofertilizer agent were identical to Trichoderma asperellum, where the Tc-Jjr-02 isolate showed the best performance in assisting the growth and production of shallot plants in acidic soils. Key words: acid soil, growth, oyster mushroom waste, shallots, Trichoderma isolates, yield
Comparative studies of the effect of processing conditions on cooking and sensory properties of selected rice varieties
Authors:   University of Ilorin, Sanusi MS , Akinoso R ,   University of Ibadan, Danbaba N ,   National Cereals Research Institute, Hussein JB
Published: December 2022

Cooking and sensory properties of rice varieties are important quality indices that influence market value and consumer acceptability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of processing conditions on cooking and sensory properties of five rice varieties grown in Nigeria. The rice varieties; FARO 44, FARO 52, FARO 60, FARO 61 and NERICA 8, were processed using four processing parameters at varying conditions [soaking temperature (65-75°C), soaking time (10-16 h), steaming time (20 – 30 min) and paddy moisture content (12-16%)] using response surface methodology. The effect of processing conditions on cooking properties (cooking time, water uptake ratio and elongation ratio) was analyzed using standard procedures. Quantitative descriptive analysis and principal component analysis were used to describe eleven sensory characteristics (uniform appearance, black specks, whitish appearance, yellow colour, brown colour, creamy flavour, typical rice odour, sweet taste, sticky texture, grainy texture and hard texture) of the rice varieties. The cooking time, elongation ratio and water uptake ratio ranged from 12.75 to 51.58 min, 0.91 to 1.94 and 2.21 to 4.95, respectively. The cooking properties differed with respect to rice varieties and processing conditions. The shortest cooking time, longest elongation ratio and highest water uptake ratio varied from one variety to another. It was observed that NERICA 8 had the shortest cooking time (12.75 min) at 65ºC soaking temperature, 16 h soaking time, 20 min steaming time and 16% paddy moisture content while FARO 52 had the highest water uptake ratio (4.95) at 65ºC soaking temperature, 16 h soaking time, 20 min steaming time and 16% paddy moisture content. The maximum elongation ratio (1.94) was observed at 65ºC soaking temperature, 16 h soaking time, 30 min steaming time and 12% paddy moisture content in FARO 60. The sensory properties of the rice varieties were generally characterised as having uniform appearance, whitish appearance, sweet taste, creamy flavour and rice odour. The information on the cooking and sensory properties of the rice varieties would assist rice processors and consumers in selecting rice variety of choice. Key words: Cooking properties, Rice varieties, Processing conditions, Sensory properties
Fortification of low-fat yogurt with melloco flour (Ullucus tuberosus): Physicochemical and rheological effects
Authors:   Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Pérez LV , Sánchez HJ ,   Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Sánchez ÁE ,   Environobolab C.A., Salazar DM
Published: December 2022

Yogurt is a fermented milk product containing Lactic Acid Bacteria (BAL) (Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus). Although the application of additives is not mandatory, the use of gums or dairy extenders have been studied to establish the effect on the product. Among the additives most used in yogurt, production is focalized on natural or artificial sweeteners, stabilizing agents, flavors and colorants. Nowadays, consumers are looking for products that seem less artificial and more natural. In this sense, melloco, an Andean crop that, thanks to its mucilaginous content, could become an excellent additive that provides stability and viscosity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of melloco flour (Ullucus tuberorus) yellow variety (INIAP-Quillu) on low-fat yogurt's quality properties. In this study, semi-skimmed milk (2% fat) was supplemented with 0.9% (w / v) of melloco flour, fermented and stored at 4°C for 20 days. Sensory attributes such as color, texture, taste, smell and overall acceptability were evaluated; the proximal analysis was performed using official methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The physical and rheological properties and microbiological analysis were evaluated during 20 days of refrigerated storage. The use of melloco flour to enrich the reduced-fat yogurt improved acid production during fermentation. The average pH of the samples decreased from 4.8 to 4.18 after 20 days of storage. The color parameters did not differ significantly in all samples and remained constant during storage. The viscosity showed a rheological behavior of the pseudoplastic fluid. This study evidenced that the acid production in the yogurt enriched with melloco flour was higher during fermentation than the control sample, the typical end-point of pH (4.5) was reached by enriched yogurt in 5.5 hours compared to 7 hours for control. Sensory attributes also allowed establishing that the sample with 0.9% of flour presents the best overall acceptability. In general, the results suggest that melloco flour can be considered as good gelling and nutritional agent for the production of yogurt. Key words: enriched, fermentation, Melloco, microbial growth, yogurt, physicochemical properties, rheology, sensorial properties
Identification of soil fertility status of subak rice fields based on soil chemical properties in Denpasar city, Bali, Indonesia
Authors:   Udayana University, Trigunasih NM , Wiguna PPK
Published: December 2022

Soil functions as a storehouse of nutrients that are needed by plants for growth and production. Decreased soil fertility will cause a decrease in productivity due to reduced nutrients in the soil. To determine the state of nutrients, it is necessary to evaluate the status of soil fertility. This study was carried out in the Subak rice fields in Denpasar City, Bali Province, Indonesia. Denpasar City, is the capital of Bali Province which continues to grow, relying on the rice production from its rice fields. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the fertility status of soils in Subak rice fields in Denpasar City based soil chemical properties and to map their fertility status using Geographic Information System (GIS). The approach for this study included surveying and soil sample analysis. The parameters observed were soil chemical properties including: CEC, Base Saturation, C-Organic, P2O5, K2O and pH. The study delineated three categories of soil fertility status, namely high, moderate and low. The total area with high soil fertility was 1312.76 ha (63.77 %), while for the medium and low, the respective total areas were 560.83 ha (27.24 %) and 184.89 ha (8.98 %). The Subak condition with low soil fertility has deficiency in soil organic Carbon (C) content and low total Phosphorus (P). Recommendations for managing low soil fertility status are addition of organic matter and P fertilizer of 100 kgha-1. The spatial distribution of soil fertility status in Denpasar City was mapped using GIS. The distribution of fertility status in these rice fields shows that the majority of the fields classified as high fertility are located in East and South Denpasar. The different fertilization regimes followed between the Subaks were the cause of the observed different soil nutrient statuses. Therefore, it is necessary to give the same treatment in order to maintain soil fertility. Soil fertility and maintenance of agricultural land productivity were factors that supported food security in Denpasar City. Key words: Subak, Rice fields, Soil Fertility, Chemical Properties, Geographic Information System
Effect of formulated biochar on nodule production, dry matter and grain yield of black soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr) in Indonesia
Authors:   University of Winaya Mukti, Turmuktini T , Irawan R , Taryana Y , Widodo RW , Muliani Y ,   University of Nusantara Bandung, Kantikowati E ,   University of Bale Bandung, Simarmata T ,   University of Padjadjaran
Published: December 2022

Biochar is an important material for soil mineral supply and amendment. Root nodule formation in leguminous plants is also stimulated by biochar. Biochar contains carbon which can be used as an energy source by microbes and contains pores which are suitable for microbial habitat, and it temporarily increases activity of free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Coconut shell biochar can be used as an ameliorant, but the use of single coconut shell biochar can cause a problem such as the use of high dose that will lead into high cost. One of the solutions to solve the problem is to improved coconut shell biochar into formulated biochar (FB) by managing the composition and enrich it with chemical fertilizer’s such as dolomite, organic fertilizer compost of sugarcane bagasse and guano. Mixture of formulated biochar (FB) gave better results than single biochar alone on black soybean. When this FB is applied in the field, it can make efficient use of an organic fertilizers in increasing grain yields. This research was conducted to determine the effect of Formulated Biochar (FB) on nodule production, dry matter and productivity of black soybean seeds. The study was conducted for one season in an experiment field in Winaya Mukti University, Sumedang-Indonesia at 850 m above sea level (m ASL). Detam I seed cultivar was used because it has a wide adaptability in Indonesia and has high nutrient composition and yield potential. The experiment was arranged in a randomized block design consisting of 5 treatment doses of FB (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 tons ha-1) and replicated 5 times. The responses observed were the number of effective nodules, growth characteristics, production components and productivity of black soybeans. The results showed that the application of FB had a significant effect on increasing the effectiveness of nodule production, dry matter, and productivity of black soybean seeds. The formulated biochar dose of 2.0 tons ha-1 increased the effectiveness of nodule production up to 100% and 44.87% of soybean productivity, while the formulated biochar dose of 1.5 tons ha-1 increased soybean productivity by 38.46% compared to the control. It is therefore concluded that formulated biochar as soil conditioner and soil booster could be used to improve the growth and grain yield of black soybean. Key words: Black soybean, coconut shell biochar, component yield, dry mater, formulated biochar, grain yield, growth, nodulation
Characteristics of stingless bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini) from Universitas Andalas Limau manis campus complex and its implication in pollination and ecotourism
Authors:   Universitas Andalas, Herwina H , Yaherwandi Y , Nurdin J , Janra MN , Salmah S , Jasmi J , Christy BY
Published: December 2022

Stingless bees, of the tribe Meliponini, subfamily Meliponinae and family Apidae, have been renowned as honey-producing bees and pollinators. An inventory survey on stingless bees was conducted at Universitas Andalas campus complex (UACC) between 2019-2022 with the aim of documenting their morphological characteristics and nesting behavior that are important for developing meliponiculture. It used direct observation and specimen collection at nest entrances, along with plant species identification from around the nests. A total of nine (37 % of stingless bee species known in Sumatra), of four genera, were recorded at different nesting spots within UACC. Five species were under genus Tetragonula, two of genus Lepidotrigona, and one each for genera Tetrigona and Heterotrigona. Tetragonula fuscobalteata was the smallest species found in this study, reaching 3.2 mm body length and less than 3.5 mm wing length. On the other hand, Tetrigona apicalis was the biggest species, measuring 7 mm body length and more than 7.2 mm wing length. Tetragonula consists of members with small bodies and inhabit either anthropogenic areas or natural habitats such as tree hollows, fences, wall crevices or other forms of cavity. Thirty-one plant families were recorded as potential resources around the stingless bee colonies. These families are dominated by Fabacease, Asteraceae, Moraceae, Euphorbiaceae and Verbenaceae. There might be differences in capacity to provide nectar, pollen, resin or gum among plant families; however, the diversity of plant species in the community should be complementary in providing resources for stingless bee colony. The nine stingless bee species recorded in this study possess an array of potential for meliponiculture and aesthetic purposes. Anthropogenic-tolerant species can be possibly reared and aesthetically integrated with decorative aspects of human settlement. The knowledge on existing stingless bee species, along with their biological aspects become crucial in initiating meliponiculture system within the University boundaries, with possible venture can be extended into ecotourism where people come and enjoy the beekeeping within this scenic University environment. Key words: Stingless bees, Taxonomy, Morphological, Meliponiculture, Pollinator, Ecotourism, Campus
Farmers’ perspective of COVID-19 effects on demand and supply of agricultural commodities in Nyamasheke district, Rwanda
Authors:   Kibogora Polytechnic, Ruvuna E , Mweruli TF , Uwingenzi M ,   University of Technology and Arts of Byumba, Jeyakumar R ,   Kigali Independent University
Published: December 2022

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new strain of coronavirus. This disease disrupted the functionality of the global economy, and the agriculture sector was not spared. It is in this context that this paper aims at assessing farmers’ perceptions about the perceived shocks of COVID-19 on the side of demand and supply of agricultural commodities. The study was guided by three objectives viz to investigate the perceptions of farmers on the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the demand for agricultural commodities, to explore the perceptions of farmers on the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the supply of agricultural commodities and to analyze the factors affecting farmers’ perceptions of COVID-19 pandemic on demand and supply of agricultural commodities in Nyamasheke district. The target population size was 6237 composed of farmers of three irrigated lands in Nyamasheke District. Yamane’s formula for the sample size determination was used to find the sample size of the respondents which was 376 and then stratified and systematic sampling procedures were employed to get 174 farmers in Kirimbi, 114 farmers in Mugonero and 88 farmers in Kamiranzovu irrigated lands, respectively. This study employed both descriptive and inferential statistical tools to analyze data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data on the perceptions of farmers towards COVID-19 pandemic effects on the demand and the supply for agricultural commodities while the inferential statistics were used to estimate the logit of farmers’ perceptions on COVID-19 pandemic effects of demand and supply of agricultural commodities in the area under study. Results from the descriptive statistics revealed that 326 (86.7%) farmers agreed that COVID-19 pandemic has affected the demand of agricultural commodities while 244 (64.9%) farmers confirmed that COVID-19 pandemic has affected the supply of agricultural commodities in the area under study. The output of the model revealed that the independent variables that significantly contribute to the logit of the dependent variable were farming experience and labor. During the COVID-19 pandemic, farmers encountered several challenges that disrupted their livelihoods including changes in household consumption patterns, changes in market functionalities, discontinuity of the planned training and field visits, and low number of farmers in the farms. Researchers recommend that farmers’ purchasing power should be reinforced by providing financial support to them through lowering interest rates on loans. Key words: Demand, supply, COVID-19, pandemic, agricultural commodities, binary logistic regression, Rwanda
Profile of fungal contaminants of maize (Zea mays) intended for consumption and their potential health implications in the Ho municipality of Ghana
Authors:   University of Health and Allied Sciences, Kortei NK , Amanor D , Wiafe-Kwagyan M ,   University of Ghana, Annan T ,   Council for Scientific and Industrial Research- Food Research Institute, Boakye AA , Essuman EK , Deku JG , Tettey CO
Published: December 2022

Maize is a principal food crop used extensively by both humans and animals in Africa and across the globe. Unfortunately, maize is highly susceptible to fungal contamination, especially with toxicogenic species. The contamination is exacerbated subsequently by mycotoxins of these fungi, which is indeed a major concern to governments and the international community, as it renders the food unsafe for human and animal consumption. Whole maize was sampled from 10 different sites in the Ho municipality, Ghana, and evaluated for moisture contents, fungal count, and species diversity. The fungal analysis was conducted at three points per location. Fungal species were cultured and identified on the two media used; Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and Dichlor Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol (DRBC). A total of sixteen (16) fungal species belonging to eleven (11) genera were identified in this study. They included Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, A. tamarii, A. ochraceous, and A. parasiticus, Cladosporium herbarium, Curvularia lunata, Penicillium citrinum, Fusarium moniliforme, Eurotium sp., Mucor racemosus, Rhizopus stolonifer, Paecilomyces variotii, Neurospora sitophilia and Rhodotorula sp. The genus Fusarium was found to be the most overriding fungus. The overall decreasing order of ranking of occurrence was Fusarium>Penicillium>Aspergillus. Fungal counts of the maize samples ranged between 2.77±1.01- 4.1±0.81 Log10 CFU/g and 3.00±1.13-4.08±1.22 Log10 CFU/g for SDA and DRBC respectively and showed no significant differences (p>0.05). The moisture content of the maize grains ranged between 12.06 ±1.17- 16.71 ± 2.65 %. Generally, there was a weak association between moisture content and fungal counts, which showed a poor fit to the linear equations (R2= 0.1989, R2= 0.0047 for SDA and DRBC respectively). Our results underscore that consumers and farmers should be up-to-date on the danger of fungal contamination in maize. The outcomes of this paper would be worthwhile in advising policy makers to particularly stress on in adopting international legislations on food quality parameters and to use tools that will change the frame of mind of the population on risks involving fungal intoxication. Key words: Maize, fungi, mycoflora, health, Ghana, toxicogenic fungi, pathogenic fungi
Household food security, dietary patterns and nutritional status of young children in a Nigerian community: Situation of post-COVID-19 lockdown
Authors:   Obafemi Awolowo University, Olodu MB , Adeomi AA , Fagbulu OJ , Teniola AO , Afolabi BK
Published: December 2022

The emergence of the novel Coronavirus in late 2019 led to disruptions in the food, economic and health systems. There are projections that the pandemic will worsen hunger and malnutrition in families with young children and women of reproductive age in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Therefore, this study investigated household food security status, dietary patterns and nutritional status of children in a Nigerian community during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total sample of 200 mother-child pairs was selected from a Nigerian community using a multi-stage sampling technique. A semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire, which had four sections, was used for data collection. A food security survey questionnaire was used to assess household food security, and a food frequency questionnaire was used to capture child food patterns. Dietary diversity was assessed using 24-hour dietary recall, and nutritional status was measured using anthropometric parameters. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. Almost half (48.5%) of the mothers were aged between 24 and 35 years, with a mean age of 31.63 +6.3 years. The majority of the children (69%) were between 24 and 60 months-old, with a mean age of 29.80 +15.48 months. Most participants (73.7%) were food insecure. Cereals, roots and tubers (79.5%), and sugar and junk (61.4 %) were the most frequently consumed food groups by children, while dairy products (15.8 %), vegetables (18.1%), and fruits (19.3 %) were the least frequently consumed. The majority had a low dietary diversity score (61.4%), and the prevalence of stunting, wasting and underweight was 41.3%, 27.2% and 3.3%, respectively. There was a statistically significant (p=0.013) relationship between maternal age and child dietary diversity. This study reveals that most households with mothers and children 6-59 months-old were food insecure. More than half of the children had low dietary diversity, and the consequences of poor diet quality are becoming evident as wasting and stunting are high. Therefore, an urgent public health intervention is needed to improve food security in vulnerable households. Key words: Household food security, Dietary pattern, Nutritional Status, COVID-19
Caracteristiques sociodemographiques des meres et pratiques d’alimentation de complement chez les enfants de 6 a 23 mois dans le centre-nord du Burkina Faso
Authors:   Centre National de Recherche Scientifique et Technologique, Bougma S , Hama-Ba F , Garanet F , Savadogo A ,   Université Joseph KI ZERBO
Published: December 2022

Les pratiques alimentaires inadéquates ont un impact négatif sur la santé et la croissance des enfants au cours des deux premières années de vie et augmentent leur risque de dénutrition, de morbidité et de mortalité. Le but de cette étude est d'identifier les facteurs associés aux pratiques d'alimentation de complément des enfants dans un contexte de déplacement interne des populations dans la région du Centre-Nord du Burkina Faso. Une étude transversale communautaire, descriptive et analytique auprès des ménages a été réalisée dans le centre urbain de Kaya. La méthode d’échantillonnage en grappes a été utilisée pour sélectionner 197 couples mère-enfant de 6 à 23 mois. Des données sociodémographiques, sanitaires à partir des questionnaires administrés directement aux mères ont été collectées. L’analyse a été faite à l’aide du logiciel STATA13. Des analyses descriptives et une régression logique binaire ont été réalisées avec un intervalle de confiance à 95%. Il ressort que seulement un quart des enfants de 6 à 23 mois ont une diversité alimentaire minimale, 17,8% ont atteint un régime alimentaire minimum acceptable. La fréquence minimale de repas est de 60,1% pour tous les enfants. La pratique de diversité alimentaire minimale des enfants de 12 à 23 mois est 2,8 fois plus élevée que celle des enfants de 6 à 8 mois et de 9 à 11 mois (OR=2,8 ; p=0,001) avec une fréquence minimale de repas plus acceptable. Cette étude a révélé que les facteurs tels que la grande taille du ménage (OR= 3,57 ; p=0,007), la résidence de la mère en zone rurale (OR= 2,8 ; p=0,004) et le faible niveau d'instruction de la mère (OR= 1,8; p=0,045), le statut matrimonial de la mère (OR=2,3 ; p=0,015) et la personne s’occupant de l’enfant influencent négativement sur les pratiques d’alimentation de complément des enfants. Les pratiques d’alimentation de complément adéquates restent toujours préoccupantes et nécessitent une mise en place de stratégies d’interventions basées essentiellement sur l’éducation nutritionnelle des mères en tenant compte du contexte socio culturel des populations. Mots clés: Malnutrition, Pratiques d’alimentation, Socio démographique, Indicateurs, Enfants, Mères, Age, Burkina Faso
Proximate, microbiological analysis and digestibility of pepsin in atta sexdens flour, from the region of Rioja, Perú
Authors:   Universidad Privada Norbert Wiener, Bendezu Ccanto J , Condori Chura J ,   Dresden Food ingredientes S.A, Lozada-Urbano M
Published: December 2022

The consumption of insects, also known as entomophagy, is not a new eating habit; on the contrary, the insects are eaten in many countries worldwide, where insects are served as the main dish in many of them. In Peru, insect consumption is limited to regions of the central jungle where locals consume ants of the "Atta sexdens" variety in the form of toasted snacks with salt. Analysis of insects has shown a wide variation in macronutrient content relative to most wild vertebrate meats, encompassing a wide range of protein, fat and carbohydrate concentrations. In that sense, in terms of their proportional macronutrient composition, insects could serve as equivalents not only to wild meat, but also to other foods, such as seafood, nuts, legumes, vegetables or fruits. The aim of this study was to assess nutritional quality of "Atta sexdens" ant flour and determine its physical and chemical characteristics. The ants were obtained from the department of San Martín, province and district of Rioja and underwent a rigorous cleaning process to eliminate impurities such as wings, leaves and soil which are attached to the ants. The ants were dried using a Biobase oven, model BOV-T30C, and then ground in an electric grinder and finally passed through a sieve. The final product was measured for physicochemical properties such as pH, % acidity in aqueous extract and % acidity in ethanolic extract, resulting in 6.57, 0.21, and 0.29, respectively. The nutritional composition assessment was based on the AOAC standard method where the fat content of the meal was 35.40%; protein, 35.51%; carbohydrate, 16.12%; ash, 5.39%; and moisture, 7.58%. For the assessment of pepsin digestibility, the AOAC 971.09 test method was used, resulting in 99.77% activity. In regard to techno-functional properties, it was found that swelling capacity (SC) and water absorption capacity (WAC) resulted in 2.91 WAC g water/g m and 1.86 SC ml/g, respectively. On the other hand, the microbiological results were within the permissible limits for health; therefore, we can consider this ant meal a safe and innocuous product as well as an excellent food source with exceptional nutritional characteristics. Key words: Atta sexdens, flour, Entomophagy, Protein, Digestibility, Microbiology, Physicochemical properties, Proximate
Socioeconomic determinants of maize production among north western Ethiopia's small-scale farmers: Evidence from three agro-ecology zones
Authors:   Bahir Dar University, Mitiku A , Zewdu B , Yihenew GS , Getachew A
Published: December 2022

Knowing the primary maize production constraints that could lead to poor productivity which in turn lower farm income is essential to close the gap between desire and actual yield. As a result, this survey was conducted to assess the constraints on maize production across West Gojjam Zone in three districts: Jabi Tehnan, Bahir Dar Zuriya, and Mecha. Based on maize production potential, coverage, and the importance of maize in the livelihood of farmers in the study area, 10 km by 10 km X and Y geographical coordinate points as the main grid, and a quadrangle 1 km by 1km square grid was generated. Data were gathered from primary and secondary sources. We used both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques to gather primary data. A structured questionnaire was administered to 252 randomly selected sample farmers and their farms as part of the qualitative data collection. According to the findings, farmers in all three districts were dominantly married, of working age and with extensive farming experience. The smallest and most fragmented production land was located away from the house. The most common fertilizers were urea, DAP and NPS, from which a large proportion of the farmers used urea more than others and there was difficulty in getting fertilizers from regular sources and at the right time at all of the research sites. The majority of farmers in the research area utilized local seeds than improved seeds. Weed and insect pest attack in the maize field were very low. Furthermore, the largest portion of farmers had a very small production area which they plowed repeatedly. As a result of this study, it is possible to conclude that socioeconomic, fertilizer, seed and land preparation factors impact farmers in all three maize production systems. In this regard, it is suggested that more attention should be paid to these yield-limiting factors. Key words: Maize production, input, farming experience, Zea mays, land distributions, productivity, Ethiopia
Evaluation of food and nutrition security status of Nigeria preschool children towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 1,2,3 - A review
Authors:   University of Kwazulu-Natal, Omachi BA , Van Onselen A ,   Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Kolanisi U ,   University of Zululand
Published: December 2022

Child nutrition is essential to any country's food and nutrition security status. It goes beyond food security to encompass all the components of child well-being and cognitive development. It includes infant and young child feeding practices, care practices, and hygiene. Africa accounts for the highest prevalence of child malnutrition and mortality worldwide. The complexity and interconnectedness of the components of child nutrition in developing countries are yet to be well conceptualized. Due to a high poverty rate, economic shock, and conflicts in many sub-Sahara countries like Nigeria. Nigeria, the most populated country in this region, records a high prevalence of child malnutrition, morbidity, and mortality. High poverty, poor policies, poor dietary intake, and care practices among households have become a significant concern and a public health issue, especially as the country navigates toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 and the Africa agenda 2063. This review brings home the contributions of the multidimensional drivers of child nutrition to Nigerian children's overall health outcomes and food security status. In addition, it proffers possible solutions to these challenges to ensure the attainment of both the SDGs and Africa agenda indicators that address hunger, poverty, and the overall well-being of children. The study also emphasizes the importance of optimal nutrition to ensure that children reach their full potential, reduce the risk of childhood illness and chronic diseases in adulthood, and ultimately contribute significantly to the nation's labour force, productivity, and gross domestic product (GDP). Therefore, the study explores available online resources, peer-reviewed articles, books, and relevant reports from official websites that identify the drivers of children’s food and nutrition security status from Nigeria's perspective. Overall, in Nigeria, most preschool children do not consume sufficiently safe and nutritious diets for optimal growth and development; hence, they are just surviving but not thriving. Key words: Childhood, nutrition, preschool, components, pandemic, children, SDGs, Nigeria
Knowledge sharing behavior among farmers in Indonesia: Does social capital matter?
Authors:   Universitas Islam Makassar, Zain MM , Ibrahim H , Musdalifah M
Published: December 2022

Social capital has three important dimensions, namely, cognitive, relational and structural. It has a crucial role to enhance farmers’ income and knowledge in some developing countries. However, there is a lack of studies which validate the role of social capital to farmers’ income and knowledge sharing. The aims of this study are to examine the role of farmers’ social capital on knowledge sharing behavior through farmer community and personal expectations. The recent study also examines how mediators’ variables (individual and community expectations) influence farmers' knowledge sharing behavior. The study sample consisted of 720 Indonesian rice farmers from Sulawesi districts and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test the research hypotheses. The empirical result indicates that structural, cognitive and relational social capital have a positive role in farmers' expectations. They facilitate community members in rural areas and connect people locally and regionally, as mediator variables, personal and community expectations also emerged as tools where people can explore, interact and share their expertise to develop knowledge sharing behavior. However, community expectations have a greater effect on facilitating knowledge sharing among farmers than personal expectations. This study provided insights on developing and enhancing farmers' economic and social life, which was neglected in prior studies. This research contributes to the literature on social capital theory and social connectedness. Hence, the farmers and the local government should address and identify their objective and rational concerns to improve their social capital. In addition, social capital also enhances the content and processes of farmers’ interactions to foster communication and value propositions in creating unique and valuable experiences. Local government should be aware of the essential components of interaction and effective two-way communications among farmers. Furthermore, social capital can also be treated as a tool that allows farmers to share their expertise and knowledge. The community and local government should solve problems for farmers in the future since it is easier and faster to access information and knowledge about production processes. Social capital also has economic and social value, enhancing a sense of belonging among farmers. Key words: Social capital, Farmer expectation, Knowledge Sharing behavior, Developing countries
Einführung in die Einheits-/ Ganzheitsphysik
Authors: Kuch Sven
Published: December 2022

«Neue Physik braucht eine neue Mathematik» lautet eine seit längerem formulierte Forderung, um die Relativitätstheorie und die Quantenphysik endlich mathematisch miteinander verbinden zu können. Warum dies bislang nicht gelang, wird erstmals anhand von Missverständnissen in der Vektorrechnung und in der Quaternionenrechnung aufgedeckt. Deren ehemalige Entdecker Hermann Grassmann und W. R. Hamilton beschrieben ihre damaligen «neuen Wissenschaften» nahezu zeitgleich um 1843. Doch ihre mathematischen Systeme unterschieden sich grundlegend voneinander, obwohl sie beide dasselbe (elektromagnetische) Ausdehnungsgebiet behandelten. Nun kündigt sich eine nachhaltige Erweiterung in den Wissenschaften an. Werden nämlich die beiden mathematischen Systeme über ein neues Verständnis des Imaginären miteinander kombiniert, so entsteht ein zukunftsweisendes, ganzheitliches Rechensystem, welches unser Universum zu einem universellen Ganzen zusammenführt. Bislang ungeklärte Phänomene wie z.B. die Entstehung von Zeit und Raum, die physikalische Verschränkung oder die Wirkungsbereiche der Dunklem Materie und Dunklen Energie, werden neu erklärt.
Einführung in die Einheits-/ Ganzheitsphysik
Authors: Kuch Sven
Published: December 2022

Wie aus dem Nichts ein Etwas entsteht, gilt schon seit langem als Schlüssel der Erkenntnis zum Verständnis von Allem. Doch weder der Urknall-, noch der Stringtheorie gelang es bislang, die Entstehung von Quanten mit der Einsteinschen Relativitätstheorie erfolgreich zu verbinden. Nun kündigt sich eine nachhaltige Erweiterung in den Wissenschaften an. Werden nämlich zwei unterschiedliche mathematische Systeme über ein neues Verständnis des Imaginären miteinander kombiniert, so entsteht ein neues ganzheitliches Rechensystem, welches unser Universum zu einem universellen Ganzen zusammenführt. Am Ende werden sogar die Mathematik, die Physik und die Philosophie endlich wieder miteinander verbunden. Bestellung und sofortiger Download nur via https://buchportal.buphi.net/anex-information/buecher/einfuehrung-in-die-einheits-ganzheitsphysik-digital-pdf.html (Für die Signierung der pdf-Datei, sowie für vergünstigte Bestellungen ist immer ein Benutzerkonto erforderlich.)