bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Commercial Agriculture and Youth Poultry Egg Farmers’ Efficiency in Nigeria
Authors: Adewale Ayoola , Yusuf Sulaiman
Published: September 2024

Low egg production is one of the many factors that challenge the growth of the Nigerian poultry industry and particular attention has not been paid to youth involvement in commercial poultry egg production. Using data from 181 sampled farmers, this study used Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to investigate whether the impact of the concluded Commercial Agriculture Development Project was sustainable, even three years after its closure in Nigeria. Farmers who participated in the project recorded 7.6%-21.0% increases in profit and a slight (0.1%-0.7%) decrease in technical efficiency. Comparing determinants of profitability between youth and non-youth farmers, show that price per crate and egg production quantity recorded more positive effects on the profitability of youth farmers while feed price had a more negative effect on the profitability of non-youth farmers. On the determinants of Technical Efficiency (TE) between youth and non-youth farmers, although years of education decreased the TE of both groups, the effect was greater among youth farmers, while egg production was significant and positive for both groups, the effect was greater for non-youth farmers. Also, the number of birds, feed quantity, and price per crate had negative effects on TE for youth farmers only, while years of experience although negative was significant for only the non-youth group. Overall, youth farmers recorded more significant positive effects on profit than non-youth farmers and less significant positive effects on TE. Overall, our results suggest scaling-up or expanding commercial agriculture interventions to farmers, especially youth. Our finding further highlights the need for training/capacity-building and extension services for youth farmers as this will bridge the gaps of inexperience that are contributory to TE of non-youth farmers.
Economic Analysis of Potato Production in Bale Highlands, South-eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Boki , Getnet Ermias , Zeleke Adamu
Published: September 2024

The study was initiated to identify the costs and benefits of economic profitability of potato production and factors affecting potato production at the small-scale farmer's level. This study was conducted in three districts. Purposive and random sampling techniques were applied to select 113 respondents. Primary data was collected directly from the respondent, through interview schedules, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Both descriptive statistics and the econometric model, the Cobb-Douglas production function model were used to analyze collected data. The average age of the sample respondent was 42.75 years, while the average household size was found to be 7 family members. The cost-benefit analysis results imply that potato production is profitable in the study area and farmers produce potatoes to improve their livelihood. The model result shows that amount of seed, fertilizer, and fungicide affect potato output significantly at 1%, 1%, and 5% respectively, while human labor was insignificant. The model result depicts that, 56% of the variations in output of potato production could be explained by the explanatory variables included in the model. The biggest problem or constraint faced by potato producer farmers in the area was the lack of improved variety. Therefore, Agricultural Research Centers should have to release improved variety that is relevant to the needs and desires of smallholder farmers.
Impacts of Climate Change on Temperature and Rainfall on Dawa Sub-watershed, Genale Dawa River Basin, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Bulti Ayana , Abegaz Fentaw
Published: September 2024

Understanding how climate change affects the frequency and length of temperature and rainfall is global issue. Climate change is statistical variations over an extended period in the features of the climate system, such as variations in global temperatures and precipitation, caused by human and natural sources. In this work coordinated regional climate downscaling experiment for Africa, which integrates climate forecasts from Coupled Model Intercomparison Project5 based on an ensemble of GCM RCM model was used to statistically downscale the climate change scenarios. This study aimed to estimate climate change impacts on temperature and rainfall. The impact of climate change has been evaluated by reporting under RCP4.5 and 8.5 scenarios. For the extraction and bias correction of the daily maximum and minimum temperature, as well as rainfall of 30-year overlap periods, CMhyd has been employed. The annual minimum temperatures are predicted to increase by 2.94, 3.45, 3.21, and 3.59°C and annual maximum temperatures increased by 2.61, 2.83, 2.71 and 3.36°C for RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 respectively. The change in rainfall reveals annual average decreases of 8.45 to 9.3% and 10.5 to 10.95% at RCP4.5 and 8.5, respectively. Considering the evaluated parameters, minimum and maximum temperatures increased trends but for the rainfall, large fluctuations were predicted. Moreover, in the study years for the parameters in all simulated models, the RCP8.5 scenario estimated a higher amount than the RCP4.5 scenario. Implement various trees, apply water harvesting structure, Surface runoff harvesting and more multiple GCM-RCM driving models with various RCM outputs to improve more prediction accuracy in the future studies.
The Potential of Three Vetch Species in Enhancing Feed Intake and Body Weight Gain of Growing Male Lambs
Authors: Dassie Berhanu
Published: September 2024

An experiment was intended to evaluate the potential of three vetch species in enhancing feed intake and body weight gain of growing male lambs and to investigate the difference among these three vetch species regarding their effect of supplementation on feed utilization and growth performance of growing male lambs. Twenty-four young male Arsi-Bale lambs of similar body weight were assigned to one of the four treatments in a randomized complete block design. The dietary treatments were 350 g of hay each of Vicia sativa, Vicia Villosa, and Vicia narbonensis for T2, T3, and T4, and ad libitum fodder oat hay alone (T1). Weight measurements of the lambs were made every ten days during the ninety-day feeding trial. Compared to T1 and T3, T2's total dry matter intake (1121.4 g/day) was substantially (P<0.05) greater. Lambs fed T2 diets showed significantly higher (P<0.001) crude protein intake (153.3 g/day) and average daily body weight increase (152.0 g/day). In conclusion, supplementation with Vicia sativa (T2) resulted in the highest feed intake and growth performance of lambs across all treatments. As a result, efforts should be undertaken to introduce and expand the production of this forage within the farming system.
Evaluation of Egg Production, Fertility, Hatchability, Embryonic Mortality and Chick Quality of Different Chickens
Authors: Fulla Shambel , Gebreslassie Atsbaha
Published: September 2024

The present study was evaluated the egg production performance, fertility, hatchability, embryonic mortality and chick quality from Cosmopolitan (C), Improved Horro (H), ♂Improved Horro*Cosmopolitan ♀ (HC), ♂ Cosmopolitan*Improved Horro ♀ (CH), Indigenous (L), and Koekoek (KK) genotypes. A Completely randomized design was used in the study. A total of 1800 eggs and 300 eggs of each genotype were used for the hatchability and fertility trials. A total of 360 chicks and 60 chicks of each genotype were used for chick quality study. A total of 720 genotypes (5female: 1 male) and 120 from each genotype were used for egg production. Age at first egg and age at peak varied across genotypes. KK had the highest egg production followed by CH, H, CH and C but L had the lowest egg production. KK had the highest weight and feed intake followed by HC, HC, and C, whereas had the lowest followed by H. Feed conversion ratio varied among genotypes. H had the highest egg fertility followed by CH. Conversely, C, HC, L and KK chicken genotypes were comparable and had the least egg fertility. H and CH showed the highest hatchability from set egg, whereas L showed the lowest hatchability from set egg followed by the intermediate KK, HC and C. CH indicated the highest hatchability from fertile egg set, while L confirmed that the lowest hatchability from fertile egg set followed by the intermediate KK, HC and C. The overall embryonic mortality of L was the highest, but CH had significantly lowest overall embryonic mortality followed by KK, HC and C. Chicks hatched from KK had the highest chick weight and chick length, but chicks hatched from L had the least chick weight and chick length. Eggs of L had the highest percentage egg weight yield followed by KK, whereas the CH, C, HC and H had intermediate yield percent during incubation. Conclusively: The genotype differences of hens substantially influenced egg production performance, fertility, embryonic mortality, hatchability and chick quality.
Field Assessment of Major Livestock Diseases and Health Management Practices in Assosa Zone Areas
Authors: Yirdaw Betelihem
Published: September 2024

A preliminary disease survey in livestock and health management practices comprising cattle, goats, and poultry was undertaken. This study was conducted to identify livestock diseases, determine the method of diagnosis, and evaluate the disease management system within the period of 2020 to 2022. A semi-structural questionnaire was developed. 86 animal owners, who have large number of animals, participated in three districts Assosa, Bambasi, and Homosha each consisting of 52, 18, and 16 respondents respectively. The mean average number of cattle, goats, and poultry per farm was 10.1, 10.8, and 2003.3 in that order. According to respondents 93% of tell us the first disease was trypanosmiasis, followed by parasites 70.9%. Newcastle disease 75.6% of respondents was the most common disease in poultry, and Peste des petites ruminants (46.5% of respondents) was the most common in small ruminants. Most respondents explained that there was low satisfaction in veterinary supply. In Homosha, Assosa and Bambasi district identification of diseases diagnosis only by clinical sign was 100%, 80.7% and 33.3% respectively. Season of outbreak vary according to diseases type and infected species. The majority of goat and sheep outbreaks occurred in the winter (keremt) and autumn, but cattle outbreaks were prevalent in the spring followed by summer (bega). The total morbidity was 16.8% and total mortality was 7.1%. In Bambasi, the average morbidity was 2.8% and average mortality was 0.1%. The morbidity in Homosha was 62.5% and mortality was 26.1%. In Assosa districts the morbidity was 7.6% and mortality 3.7%. The morbidity of cattle was 13.2% and mortality was 5.5%. The morbidity of goat was 51.7% and mortality was 23.3 %. The morbidity in poultry farms was 26.8% and mortality 11.2%. This Study revealed that there were different disease outbreaks in the Assosa zone and management in livestock Production is poorly practiced. This is the greatest threat to livestock production and productivity. Therefore, preventive measures should be taken to sustain livestock health.
Evaluating Pericardiectomy Outcomes and Determinants; an 8-Year Retrospective Study at Tertiary Teaching Hospitals in Ethiopia
Authors: F. Senbu Mekonnen , Desalegn Admikew , Mideksa Demu
Published: September 2024

Background: Constrictive pericarditis has a variety of etiologies which leads to severe symptoms and heart failure which affects the quality of life. So far the main modality of treatment is pericardiectomy. Objective: The aim of this research was to know pericardiectomy outcomes and determinants among constrictive pericarditis patients who were operated at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital from 2014 - 2022. Methods: A retrospective study was done among 65 patients. Data was presented using frequencies with percentages, mean (±standard deviation) and/ or median (interquartile range) as required. Perioperative mortality and complications were summarized using incidence density with 95% confidence interval (CI). Result: Most patients were in their 20s (53.8%) and where male are (84.6%). The commonest presenting symptom was shortness of breath (100%), fatiguability (96.9%), and coughs (66.2%). The median time of presentation was 12.3 months (IQR, 7.0-25.5). There were also cases with clinical symptoms of tuberculosis (13.8%). The etiology of constrictive pericarditis was infectious in 83.1% of cases. The mean length of surgery was 3.3 ± 0.6 hours. The median duration of hospital stay is 9.0 days (IQR, 7.0-12.0). The incidence rate (IR) of perioperative death was 7.9 per 1000 person-days (PD) of observation (94% CI = 3.3 – 19.2) and the incidence rate of complication was 4.8 per 1000 PD (95% CI = 1.5 -14.9). Conclusion: Pericardiectomy is the best treatment for patients with constrictive pericarditis. The majority of patients had a good outcome, with an improvement in symptoms and functional status. The mortality rate was low, and the complication rate was acceptable. However, this study is based on relatively small sample size, and it is a retrospective study from a single center. Hence, further prospective studies are needed to confirm the findings of this study.
Coupling the Power of Artificial Intelligence on Human and Climate Change Impacts Mitigation in Oban Biodiversity Hotspot Loss, Nigeria
Authors: Okoroafor Ezinne , Umo Ikpong , Ukwe Ifeanyi
Published: September 2024

The current human efforts to grapples with the pressing challenges of human and climate change impacts on biodiversity loss hotspots have not yield the expected outcome, thereby creating an urgent need for a more sustainable and innovative approach to mitigate the threats from local to global level. This paper explores the various applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in monitoring endangered animal species and forest degradation within the Oban Division of the Cross River National Park with a view to boosting sustainable species conservation and averting biodiversity hotspot loss. It evaluates the key potentials and real benefits of AI-driven technologies in optimizing species protection and conservation efforts in the hotspot. It also explores the challenges and opportunities associated with the adoption of AI in biodiversity hotspot monitoring and conservation; and propose recommendations for future research and policy interventions. The paper adopts a qualitative method in reviewing existing studies of AI applications in species conservation and narrows it down to the Oban biodiversity hotspot. The results show that species in the study area are under serious human and nature-induced threats. Also, though AI possesses one of the most intuitive and environmental-friendly options for species monitoring and protection, its application in the protected hotspot is still at zero level due to limited capacity and awareness. We recommend AI driven capacity building via staff training, as well as provision of place-centered AI-technologies to aid accurate monitoring and avert species extinction in the Oban hotspot. Also, local content development and promotion of indigenous technologies, ideas, policies and programmes should be urgently prioritized.
Hydrodynamic Analysis of Sediment Deposition in Mangrove Wetlands of Zhanjiang Bay-Based on the Perspective of Sediment Grain Size
Authors: Sun Zhongqiang , Lin Shuangyue , Peng Cheng , Luo Songying , Cheng Zhihui , Song Xiuli
Published: September 2024

Grain size is an important parameter reflecting the characteristics of sedimentary dynamics, and mangrove wetland sediments record abundant sedimentary environmental information during transportation and deposition. To investigate the vertical characteristics of sediment grain size and sedimentary dynamic processes in the mangrove wetlands of Zhanjiang Bay, this study analyzed the grain size parameters, frequency distribution curves, and hydrodynamic characteristics of sediment cores collected from the mangrove wetlands in Nansan Island (A), the south of Techeng Island (B), Guanhai Promenade (C), Dongtoushan Island (D), Huguang Town (E), and the west of Donghai Island (F). The objective was to reveal the evolution of sedimentary dynamics in Zhanjiang Bay over the past century. The results showed that: (1) There were significant differences in the grain size characteristics among the sediment cores. Cores A and B had poor sorting and flat kurtosis, with sediment types of silty sand. Core C had a sinuous mean grain size and kurtosis curve, poor sorting, positive skewness, and a sediment type of silty sand. Core D had negative skewness, poor sorting, and moderate kurtosis, with a sediment type of sandy silt. Cores E and F had negative skewness, poor sorting, and large variations in kurtosis, with sediment types of sandy silt; (2) The grain size frequency distribution curves at depths of 25 cm, 50 cm, 75 cm, and 100 cm in each sediment core exhibited bimodal and unimodal characteristics, indicating the involvement of multiple sedimentary media in the depositional process. Cores A, B, C, and D had grain sizes concentrated on the sandy particle end, indicating strong sedimentary dynamics. Cores E and F had prominent silt-sized grains, indicating weaker sedimentary dynamics; (3) The grain size characteristics of the sediments were related to their terrestrial or island origins and the sediment supply from runoff. The depositional processes were deeply influenced by tidal dynamics, mangrove distribution, and human activities. The accelerated deposition rate in Zhanjiang Bay in recent years may affect navigation channels, and thus, attention should be paid to the ecological environment of wetlands within the bay.
The Influence of Climatic, Geological and Hydrodynamic Factors on Slope Stability at Kekem in the West Region of Cameroon
Authors: Fotso Leroy , Katte Valentine , Ntankouo Roger , Emile Temgoua
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on the influence of climatic, geological and hydrodynamic factors on slope stability of Kekem located in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. The methodological approach was based on the analysis of three factors: hydrological, geological and assessment of the hydrodynamic parameters influencing the stability of slopes. The hydrological factors indicate an average annual rainfall of 1,763.04 mm, generating 248.59 mm of runoff and around 402.61 mm of infiltrated water. Geologically, the soils have a high angle of friction at all three elevations, from 25.8° at the bottom of the slope to 27.2° at mid-slope and 26.2° at the top. On the other hand, the cohesion of these soils remains low, varying from 0.325 bar at the bottom of the slope to 0.265 bar at the top and 0.225 bar at mid-slope. Permeability analysis yielded values ranging from 1 x 10-9 to 1 x 10-11 m/s, with an overall porosity of around 55%. These conditions, combined with the morphology of the environment, are the main causes of slope instability in the Kekem district.
Macroeconomic Factors Influencing Deposit Mobilization of Commercial Banks
Authors: Hailu Tatek
Published: September 2024

Deposit mobilization plays a vital role in the operations of commercial banks, facilitating financial intermediation and fostering economic development. This study delves into the impact of key macroeconomic factors on the deposit mobilization performance of commercial banks within the context of a developing economy. Through the application of panel data regression analysis, the research explores the dynamics between deposit mobilization and various macroeconomic variables, including inflation, interest rates, real GDP, exchange rates, monetary supply, and GDP per capita. The results indicate that both inflation and the monetary supply (measured by the M2/GDP ratio) exert a statistically significant negative effect on deposit mobilization. Furthermore, the investment deposit ratio also demonstrates a notable negative relationship with deposit mobilization. Conversely, GDP per capita shows a marginally significant positive correlation with deposit mobilization. The study includes a thorough descriptive analysis of the macroeconomic environment, assessing trends in inflation, exchange rates, real GDP growth, interest rates, and the expansion of money supply. This contextual review highlights a mixed macroeconomic landscape characterized by both favorable and adverse factors, which likely impact the deposit mobilization performance of commercial banks. The findings from this research offer valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders within the banking sector. By informing the development of strategic initiatives aimed at promoting financial inclusion, enhancing asset-liability management practices, and bolstering the resilience of the banking system, stakeholders can effectively address the identified macroeconomic determinants influencing deposit mobilization.
Effect of Financial Metrics on Risk Indicators in Nigeria Listed Deposit Money Banks
Authors: Oriakpono Anderson , Musiliu Sowunmi
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effect of financial metrics on risk indicators in Nigerian deposit money banks. The analysis employs yearly time series data spanning from 2007 to 2022, acquired from the Exchange Group PLC. Descriptive statistics, panel unit root tests, Hausman tests, and Panel Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) procedures were used at a 95% confidence interval. The study utilized secondary data sourced from the Exchange Group PLC database. The R-squared (0.564390) and Adjusted R-squared (0.540629) values indicate that the models have strong explanatory power. The results show that all variables are stationary at their levels (I(0)). The primary financial metrics influencing risk indicators among deposit money banks in Nigeria are revenue growth, net interest margin, and earnings per share. It was recommended that banks should implement effective risk management systems that can handle increased complexity and scale of operations, and regularly update them, leveraging blockchain technology for decentralized risk management as it relates to revenue growth rate of banks. Maintain a healthy net interest margin through effective risk management practices and internal controls, and utilize this strength to invest in risk mitigation measures, introducing incentive programs to encourage employee involvement in risk management. Conduct regular financial reviews and audits to ensure accurate earnings reporting and risk identification, utilizing AI-powered tools for earnings analysis to identify anomalies and potential risks. Prioritize prudent lending practices and effective risk management to maintain financial stability, implementing dynamic adjustments to the debt-to-equity ratio in response to changes in risk detection needs.
Analytical and Numerical Resolution of Viscoelastic Upper-Convected Maxwell Fluid in Couette Flow with Thermal Effects
Authors: Guemmadi Messaouda , Brahimi Faiza , Ouibrahim Ahmed
Published: September 2024

The recent development of theoretical and experimental rheology, coupled with the increasing performance of computers, now allows us to have a different approach and to envisage numerical predictions on complex geometries. Unfortunately, with current differential models, simulations of viscoelastic fluids in complex geometries still run up against the limits of memory resources and prohibitive computational times. In this study, the commercial software Fluent used in combination with a calculation code developed in C++, via sub-programs defined by User Defined Functions and User Defined Scalars. The purpose of this study is to compare the results with the analytical solution; which makes it possible to validate the numerical results by using the code developed in C++ and also, to give an assurance to use this code in the numerical simulation of several problems in UCM fluid, which does not exist on the data base of the Fluent software. The results obtained in this study, shows the effectiveness of the code developed in C++.
Industrial Robots in the Textile and Clothing Industry
Authors: Lázár Károly
Published: September 2024

Industrial robots play a crucial role in the era of Industry 4.0, characterized by the advancement of digitalization and automation. This development trend is strongly felt in the textile and clothing industry, too, and cannot be ignored when developing production facilities to streamline manufacturing processes. Industrial robots enable more efficient manufacturing processes, especially in repetitive and physically demanding tasks. Their aim is to serve production machines efficiently and autonomously, not to produce the product itself, but to support the production machine. This is particularly important in sectors such as the textile and clothing industry, which typically have a very high demand for labor. The article summarizes the main differences between simple mechanical machines, automated machines, and robots: simple mechanical machines require human intervention and have a fixed function, automated machines operate based on pre-programmed instructions and are moderately flexible, while robots are fully programmable, capable of adapting to changing tasks and operating autonomously, making decisions with the help of sensors. The article – based on real, working examples found on the internet, listed at the end of the article – presents the use of robots in the textile and clothing industry, which facilitate work in warehousing, yarn production, dyeing, fabric inspection, sewing, and textile cleaning. We aimed to engage textile and clothing companies by presenting these opportunities. However, the social impacts of robotization cannot be ignored. If simple manual labor is replaced by robots, people performing such work must be retrained for more productive tasks so that they do not lose their livelihoods. This imposes responsibilities on both the state and companies, which must provide retraining opportunities.
Law Enforcement Against Perpetrators of Illegal Firearms Possession According to Emergency Law Number 12 of 1951; A Study in Banko District Court, Indonesia
Authors: Christian David , Amin Rahman
Published: September 2024

Indonesia is one of the countries that is very strict in regulating firearms, namely in Emergency Law Number 12 of 1951, where one of the provisions is that firearms are prohibited from being possessed without rights with a serious criminal threat. However, in reality, there are still cases of illegal firearm ownership by civilians that can threaten the safety of the wider community. This study aims to find out how law enforcement is carried out against people who own firearms without official permits, and to find out the obstacles in law enforcement against perpetrators of illegal firearms ownership. This research method is normative juridical, with a legislative approach and a case approach. The results of the research show that the provisions in Emergency Law Number 12 of 1951 state that every person who violates the provisions of the law is punished with a severe penalty, namely the death penalty, life imprisonment or twenty years, but in its implementation, the punishment imposed by the judge on the perpetrator is still very light. Second, related to legal obstacles in law enforcement, namely the lack of firmness of law enforcement, especially judges in imposing criminal penalties on perpetrators of the crime of possession of firearms, and the lack of public awareness of the law.
Knowledge and Practice About Traumatic Brain Injury in the Hospital Environment in the DRC
Authors: Mhacks Malangu , Sarah Mutomb , Rosie Yogolelo , Marius Kitembo , Rivain Iteke , Célèbre Mualaba
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common reason for admission in our setting. It is the cause of primary brain lesions, representing a major public health problem since they are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. Materials and Methods: Observational study with survey, run from December 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024, involving 256 health workers to verify the level of knowledge about traumatic brain injury. Results: The age group between 21 and 40 years constitutes 64.05% of cases (n=164), The average age is 29.38, with extremes between 24 and 65 years, We note a male predominance in 53.12% of cases (n= 136), Medical Doctors constitute 75% of the medical personnel interviewed (n=192), we note a clear predominance of 0 to 5 years old with 33.59% of cases (n=86), The faculty predominates as the place of learning about head injuries in 53.65% of cases (n=132), The neurosurgeon takes care of the management of craniocerebral trauma in 58.13% of cases (n=143), According to this staff, the biggest problem in the management of head trauma in our environment is the cost of treatment with 62.89% of cases (n=161) and in most cases (54.29% of cases or 139 patients), health personnel consider themselves to have a mean level of understanding of craniocerebral trauma. Conclusion: The management of TBI is currently a diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic challenge linked to several factors in our environment. A consensual approach standardized to adapt to our practical reality proves helpful in reducing morbidity and mortality.
High Food Potential Seeds: Physicochemical Composition of Cucurbit Cultivars in Ivory Coast
Authors: Diakaridja Nikiema , Ouehi Dosso , Romain Valentin , Éric Lacroux , Muriel Cerny , Zéphirin Mouloungui , Koua Koua
Published: September 2024

The richness in protein and oil of curcubit seeds is highly coveted in the food field. In addition, in the cosmetics industry, it is a very popular ingredient. The oils of these seeds contain a diversity of fatty acids that can be advantageous during topical application. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties of the seeds and seed oils of five cucurbits (Cucumeropsis Mannii, Citrullus colocynthis, Cucumis Melo, Citrullus mucosospermus, and Citrullus lanatus) cultivars cultivated in Ivory Coast. Analysis of free fatty acid composition revealed a high linoleic acid content ranging from 24 and 70%. As well as the presence of α-linolenic acid (6.8 - 8.6%) and γ-linolenic acid (7.3 - 8.2%) in Citrullus colocynthis and Citrullus mucosospermus oils. The water and dry matter contents of the kernels vary between 3 and 4% and between 96 and 97%. The kernels of these cucurbits are rich in protein, with a high content of 25.9 ± 0.4% for Cucumeropsis Mannii, 29.0 ± 1.2% for Citrullus colocynthis, 24.1 ± 0.6% for Cucumis Melo, 24.8 ± 0.5% for Citrullus mucosospermus and 25.5 ± 0.4% for Citrullus lanatus. The quantity of lipids extracted by the Soxhlet method varied from 42 to 55%. These lipids have low acidity levels varying between 1.13 ± 0.1 to 2.01 ± 0.3% with densities of approximately 0.92 ± 0.01. The iodine values determined for these oils vary between 114.23 ± 0.2 to 122.15 ± 0.3. As for the saponification index, they are between (190 to 202 mgKOH/g).
Production of Mayonnaise from Lagenaria siceraria and Cucumeropsis mannii Seeds Oils Supplemented with Citrus sinensis and Cymbopogon citratus Essential Oils
Authors: Loumouamou Bob , Ngounga Celestine , Biassala Eliane , Ngala Chanty , Mbozo Alain , Binaki Anicet , Nzikou Jean-Mathurin
Published: September 2024

Mayonnaise, a semi-solid emulsion of oil in water, is much appreciated for its pleasant taste, which can stimulate the appetite. However, many commercial mayonnaises are produced with oils rich in saturated fatty acids, which are responsible for a number of diseases. The aim of this work is to formulate a mayonnaise based on the seed oils of Lagenaria siceraria and Cucumeropsis mannii, enriched with essential oils (EO) of Citrus sinensis and Cymbopogon citratus. Five mayonnaise samples were formulated according to their vegetable and essential oil composition. After extraction and analysis of the oils, the prepared mayonnaises were subjected to physico-chemical, microbiological and sensory analyses. The results showed that L. siceraria and C. mannii oils contained predominantly linoleic (C18:2n-6), oleic (C18:1 n-9), stearic (C18:0) and palmitic (C16:0) acids. C. citratus EOs analyzed by GC/MS yielded four components representing 93.71% of the total composition: geranial (50.32%), neral (33.27%), mircene (8.42%) and geraniol (1.67%). C. sinensis epicarp oil yielded three majority compounds representing 96.18%: D-limonene (88.45%), β-pinene (2.94%) and linalool (4.78%). Both oils showed low antioxidant activity. The pH values of the freshly formulated mayonnaises ranged from 4.09 to 4.25. Acid and peroxide values were equal to 4.25 g KOH/g oil and 7.18 meq O2/ kg respectively for all mayonnaises. After 45 days' storage at 4°C, these indices increased significantly (P < 0.05). The addition of essential oils to mayonnaise samples resulted in absent or lower total bacterial counts. Overall, it was observed that E1 mayonnaise presented the highest sensory evaluation characteristics.
Effects of Psychological Skill Training on Motivation and Anxiety Among Male U-17 Project Football Players
Authors: Demeke Atsede , Beyene Eshetie
Published: September 2024

Psychological skills training program is effective in enhancing athletes’ performance, positively influencing cognitive and affective states. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Psychological skill training on motivations and anxiety of psychological variables of male Under 17 football project players. The methodology of the study employed an experimental research design. Thirty (30) male football player participants in the study were selected for the football project. The study subjects were randomly divided into two equal groups, the experimental group (n = 15) and the control group (n = 15). The experimental group had taken Psychological skill training intervention for 8 weeks with 3 sessions per week. Both groups had taken pre-post test and all the subjects participated to standard questionnaires. Motivation was measured using the Sport Motivation Scale (SMS-28) and anxiety was measured using state-trait anxiety inventory test. The data collected from the study subjects was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS, version 25) software by descriptive and inferential statistics, at a significant level of 0.05. Results showed Psychological skill training significantly improved the stated variables motivations and anxiety in the experimental group at (p<0.05). Furthermore, no more significant differences were found in both of the variables in the control group (p>0.05). Based on this finding, it can be concluded that Psychological skill training has a positive impact on the improvement of motivations and anxiety of psychological variables. Therefore, Psychological skill training is suggested for adolescent-age football players to improve psychological preparedness for athletic performance.
Human Self: Structure of the Recognition-Behaviour Model-System Working with Language-Metabolism and Significance Induced by Symbolical Figuring the Meta-Model-System
Authors: Masuda Yutaka
Published: September 2024

Science organizes the recognizable targets of objects and phenomena in the testable form, and it functions to understand, define, quantify, visualize or simulate properties of the target in the syllogistic-hierarchy of framing, modeling, and explanation with sound inferences of language. Human Self maintaining the homeostasis is defined in the thinking-frame. The physical Self is the substantial model-system defined in the physical frame, and the mental Self is the recognition-behavioral model-system defined in the psychological frame. The recognition-behavioral model-system that was analyzed via the scientific procedure, was considered to perform language-metabolism with the thinking-codes of homology-/simplification, clustering, operation and modeling, which are mounted in the Modeling-layer of Neuronal Network of the brain, with economic and stubborn manner coming from the biological characteristics. Systems theory is the transdisciplinary study of systems complex-networked interrelated and interdependent components. Human Self is the meta-model-system complex-networked the functional single-model-systems. The mental Self that was re-defined corresponding to the physical/psychological model-system coming from Chinese philosophy and Chinese traditional medicine, developed to the neuro-psychological Self under the idea of Systems theory. Neuro-psycho-pharmacological effect of the anti-epileptic agents Carbamazepine, Lamotrigine and Valproate on Exceed Stimulation-amplify of patients suffering from Bipolar-disease, which was not clear until recently, was compatibly explained via the neuro-psychological Self. Finally, the emergent neuro-psycho-pharmacological explanation was considered to be induced by symbolically-figuring the neuro-psychological Self in the neuro-psychological frame.
Transmuted Power Gumbel Distribution: Estimation and Applications
Authors: Hurairah Ahmed , Almazaqi Nasr
Published: September 2024

In recent years, generalized distributions have been widely studied in statistics as they possess flexibility in applications. This is justified because the traditional distributions often do not provide good fit in relation to the real data set studied. This paper develops a Power Gumbel distribution using the quadratic rank transmutation map (QRTM). The new generalization is called the transmuted Power-Gumbel distribution. Various mathematical properties of this distribution including moments, moment generating function, quantile function, mean deviation and order statistics were also studied. These features support the legitimacy and robustness of the proposed distribution. The maximum likelihood method is used for estimating the model parameters, and the finite sample performance of the estimators are assessed by simulation studies indicating that their precision improves with larger sample sizes. The asymptotic confidence intervals for the parameters are also obtained based on asymptotic variance-covariance matrix. Finally, the usefulness of the proposed model is illustrated in an application to two real data sets and conclude that the four-parameter transmuted Power Gumbel distribution provides better fit than the other five models.
Effects of Variation Theory Integrated Guided Inquiry-Based Instruction on Grade Ten Students Self-Belief in Learning Solid Geometry
Authors: Yeshanew Abebaw , Belachew Tesfu , Gezahegn Habtamu , Tesfa Tadele
Published: September 2024

In mathematics education, students’ beliefs that could take many different forms like students' beliefs about mathematics learning mathematics teaching; and about themselves play a significant role in their learning and achievement. In particular, self-belief (SB) that is students’ evaluation and judgment about themselves in learning solid geometry, which encompassing control belief (CB), goal orientation (GO), self-concept (SC), self-efficacy (SE), and task value (TV), is critical to their success in learning solid geometry. Addressing these SB dimensions can substantially improve students' learning outcomes in solid geometry. Innovative, student-centered instructional approaches like GIBI, especially when combined with variation theory, offer a potential solution for overcoming Ethiopian secondary schools’ educational challenges by promoting active learning and providing varied examples to enhance engagement and achievement. However, there is a lack of research on the effectiveness of this combined approach in Ethiopia context. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the effects of variation theory integrated GIBI on grade ten students' SB in learning solid geometry in Ethiopia. Employing a quasi-experimental with non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design, 102 students from three public secondary schools in Debre Tabor city, Amhara region were randomly assigned into three groups: Experimental Group 1 (EG1) received GIBI with variation theory, Experimental Group 2 (EG2) received GIBI without variation theory, and the Control Group (CG) received traditional teaching methods. A SB questionnaire was used to measure students' CB, GO, SC, SE, and TV before and after the intervention. The results revealed significant improvements in the SB dimensions among students in EG1 compared to those in EG2 and CG. Specifically, EG1 students showed higher post-test scores in CB (F (2,99)=40.29, p=0.000, η²=0.449); GO (F (2,99)=3.43, p=0.036, η²=0.065); SC (F (2,99)=32.09, p=0.000, η²=0.393); SE (F (2,99)=24.02, p=0.000, η²=0.327); and TV (F (2,99)=5.35, p=0.000, η²=0.097). Tukey post hoc tests indicated that EG1 students' scores were significantly higher than those of the CG in CB and GO, and higher than EG2 and CG in SC, SE, and TV. These findings suggest that the integration of variation theory with GIBI effectively enhances students' SB in learning solid geometry, thereby addressing the educational challenges faced by Ethiopian students. The study recommends adopting this instructional approach more widely to improve student outcomes in mathematics.
Micro-Structure Analysis and Mechanical Behaviour of Hot Mix Asphalt Modified with Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Using Palm Kernel Shell Ash as Mineral Filler
Authors: Inyang Enobong , Usanga Idorenyin , Mkpa Edidiong
Published: September 2024

In pavement construction and production of hot mix asphalt HMA, the use of industrial and agricultural waste has gained much relevance because of its economic and environmental benefits. This research examined the effects of palm kernel shell ash PKSA on the physical and volumetric properties of HMA modified with reclaimed asphalt pavement RAP. All preliminary test conducted on the modified asphalt mixture in accordance with relevant standards showed adequacy for use in production of HMA. Marshall method of mix design was adopted for the HMA production. The bitumen content was varied from 4.5 to 6.5% (at intervals of 0.5%). The palm kernel shell ash was varied from 25% to 75% (at interval of 25%). A maximum stability of 7.1kN was recorded at 5.5% bitumen content which is a little increment in strength but good significance in material (virgin bitumen) when compared to the maximum stability of 6.9kN at 6% bitumen obtained from the control mix. The microstructural analysis of the hot mix asphalt done on the palm kernel shell ash PKSA showed a rough surface texture needed in flexible pavement construction and when comparison was done between the control specimen and the modified specimen, it shows an improvement in the interlocking arrangement of aggregates resulting in a denser mixture for the modified hot mix asphalt. In conclusion this study confirms that a blend of a 50% RAP and 50% virgin aggregates with 50% palm kernel shell ash PKSA as mineral filler at 5% bitumen content can improved strength performance of HMA, hence, the effect of PKSA as a mineral filler in HMA containing RAP is significant.
Assessing Surface Guided Radiation Therapy Benefits for Paediatric Cancer Patients: Dosimetric Implications of Intrafractional Motion - An Institutional Review
Authors: Maurya Sunil , Kakade Amol , Dandekar Prasad , Gupte Ajinkya , Jadhav Ananda , Rasal Sachin , Awate Omkar , Patil Sanket , Bhosale Manish , Pathak Alok
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Background: SGRT, a real-time imaging technique, offers continuous monitoring and motion control during treatment. The investigation aims to assess potential dosimetric alterations in target coverage due to intrafractional motion, considering its impact on patient safety and treatment efficiency. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted to assess intrafractional shifts in 18 paediatric cancer patients. Patient setup employed SGRT using AlignRT (Vision RT Ltd., UK), and the PTV was aligned with CBCT. The study introduced induced shifts of 3 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm during treatment delivery, assessing their impact on portal dosimetry results for both treatment fields. The gamma index criteria (3%, 3 mm) were employed to evaluate dosimetric accuracy. Results: A total of 18 patients were included, and induced shifts were analyzed for their impact on the planned gamma index values. Significant differences were observed between the Planned Gamma Index and induced shifts of 3 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm for both treatment fields, highlighting the dosimetric implications of intrafractional motion in paediatric cases. Conclusion: Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) is concluded to offer a comprehensive array of benefits for paediatric cases. The dosimetric implications of induced shifts underscore the importance of SGRT in ensuring accurate and safe treatment for paediatric cancer patients.
Accounting Requirements for Institutional Reform to Achieve Egypt’s Vision 2030 for Sustainable Financial Discipline, Proposed Approach
Authors: Ebrahim Nabil Abd , Mohamed Aber
Published: September 2024

The digital transformation in Egypt derives, its importance from the Sustainable Development Goals (Egypt Vision 2030) to reduce borrowing in addition to reducing public debt and the sustainability of financial inclusion, and this is achieved through financial discipline, which is one of the most prominent topics that have received wide attention in many developed countries, perhaps the accounting requirements to achieve institutional reform contributes greatly to financial discipline, especially with financial inclusion, especially when preparing the public budget in order to measure the ability of public expenditure to achieve sustainable development indicators, from the ability to manage financial expenditure, and revenues accurately and in a way that responds to financial goals after reviewing the previous studies, the researcher came up with a proposed approach that can be applied to some government institutions through accounting requirements. The researcher came up through statistical analysis using the Chi-square test, to indicate the significance of this proposed approach among the selected sample, with an order of priorities. The researcher found out the safety and strength of the proposed approach through the sample answers for many of them. the researcher believes that the application of the proposed approach and the five axes that could be deduced from the answers of the study categories, contributes greatly to the financial discipline to achieve sustainable development for Egypt 2030.
Morphological and Physicochemical Characteristics of the Fruits of Anisophyllea Quangensis Engl. Ex Henriq from the Savannah Surrounding the City of Brazzaville-Congo
Authors: Binaki Anicet , Loumouamou Bob , Bassiloua Jean , Biassala Eliane , Bopoundza Feueltgaldah , Niamayoua Rosalie , Silou Thomas
Published: September 2024

The present study is a contribution to the valorization of unconventional wild oilseed plants from the floristic biodiversity of Congo through the morphological and physicochemical characterization of the fruits of Anisophyllea quangensis. Ten fruit samples were collected from different locations in the savannah surrounding Brazzaville. Morphological characterization on 20 fruits from each sample was carried out using a caliper and a precision balance. The extraction and physicochemical characterization of fats from the pulp and seed were carried out according to standard analysis methods. The results show that the fruits of Anisophyllea quangensis are ellipsoids (l/L< 1). The pulp contains two (2) times more water than the seed, i.e. 83.13±3.10% and 38.8±5.2% respectively. The ash content of the pulp (8.1±2.1%) is also higher than that of the seed (3.28±1.02%); on the other hand, the oil content of the pulp (4 ± 2%) is very low compared to the fat content of the seed (27 ± 3%). On physicochemical analyses, the fat of the seed has a refractive index between 1.4558 and 1.4725, an acid index around 45 mgKOH/g, a peroxide index less than or equal to 15 meq/Kg, an iodine index less than 110% and a calorific value of 41558 KJ/Kg on average. For the oil from the pulp we have a refractive index of 1.5046, acid index of 73.15 mgKOH/g; a peroxide index of 5.27 meq/Kg; iodine index 76.3% and a calorific value of 38095.77 KJ/Kg. These results make it possible to classify Anisophyllea quangensis among the medium oleaginous plants of the Congo Basin and attest to the nutritional and cosmetic interest of its fat.