bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ethnobotanical study on medicinal plant knowledge among three ethnic groups in peri- urban areas of south-central Ethiopia
Authors: Tamene Sintayehu , Negash Mesele , Makonda Fortunatus BS , Chiwona-Karltun Linley , Kibret Kefyalew Sahle 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background
Documenting traditional knowledge and plant use culture among ethnic groups has enabled researchers to get a better understanding of how indigenous flora is seen and used in daily life. Their therapeutic applications will encourage future conservation and phytochemical research, potentially leading to the development of novel drugs. However, as to the knowledge of this study, the ethnobotanical studies conducted in Ethiopia are mainly focused on rural areas and were limited to identifying and documenting the local ethnobotanical knowledge at the rural-urban interface. Therefore, this study was conducted to document and evaluate the application of traditional ethnobotanical knowledge among three selected ethnic groups in peri-urban areas of south-central Ethiopia. Besides, we have attempted to investigate the range of cultural similarity and disparity between the studied ethnic groups in relation to traditional medicinal plants and diseases treated.
Methods
Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews with 189 key informants, floristic species inventories, and field observations. Several cultural importance indices and Rahman’s similarity indexes were applied to analyze the relevance of medicinal plants and cultural similarity among the ethnic groups.
Results
A total of 331 therapeutic plants were identified and documented. Of which, the Sidama, Gedeo, and Oromo ethnic groups reported 28, 34, and 38%, respectively. Most medicinal plants are herbs (36%), followed by shrubs (31%), for preparing traditional medicine. Rahman's similarity index (RSI) revealed considerable ethnobotanical knowledge variation among ethnic groups, with Oromo and Sidama showing the highest disparity at 64%, followed by Gedeo and Oromo at 63%. Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile scored 1.27 and 0.76 cultural significance values in the Gedeo and Oromo ethnic groups, respectively, followed by Zingiber officinale Roscoe (0.73) in the Sidama ethnic group as a curative plant against various ailments.
Conclusion
This study reveals the presence of cultural similarity and differences in medicinal plant knowledge application among ethnic groups in rural-urban interface areas of south-central Ethiopia. The diverse healing potential of plants will support future pharmacological investigations, emphasizing the need for adequate documentation of indigenous knowledge and versatile flora to prevent their loss.
Factors associated with rodent infestation on livestock farms in Japan
Authors: Kiyokawa Yasushi , Koizumi Ryoko , Yamada Ryoko , Frye Matthew , Parsons Michael H. , Hirata Shigeki , Tanikawa Tsutomu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
One of the obstacles to controlling rodents on livestock farms in Japan is the lack of information about characteristics that lead to infestations. To address this knowledge gap, we performed a nationwide survey that collected information from livestock farmers, including the types and number of livestock present, severity of rodent infestation, rodent management approaches utilized, and details about the most- and least-infested barns. More than 80% of respondents reported rodent infestation on their farms, especially rodents observed on overhead beams and girders. A multiple ordinal logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds ratio of rodent infestation was higher on farms housing pigs and lower on farms with chickens, as compared to farms with cattle. We also found that medium-sized farms, but not large-sized farms, showed a higher odds ratio than small-sized farms. Furthermore, the odds ratio was similarly higher on farms that implemented rodent control measures by themselves or with the assistance of pest control operators, compared to farms with no rodent management. Within a farm, barn age contributed to infestation status, such that the most-infested barns were older than the least-infested barns, regardless of livestock species. Furthermore, the proportion of ad libitum feeding was higher in the most-infested barns than in the least-infested barns on pig farms. Taken together, our results provide valuable information for understanding rodent infestations on livestock farms in Japan, which can contribute to the development of better management approaches.
Data driven modeling of linear motion system using learning algorithm
Authors: H Ramesh , S Arockia Edwin Xavier 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Linear motion control systems are used in a wide range of industrial applications, including machine tools, packaging, textiles, printing, and renewable energy. The main control elements of the linear motion control systems are the motion controller, servo drive, and encoder. The motion controller controls the servo drive coupled with the lead screw or ball-screw assembly in order to obtain the desired motion profile. The motion controllers need to be configured accurately with the parameters of motor revolution, load revolution, and length unit (LU) per load revolution in order to achieve the desired results. The positional errors due to temperature, vibration, backlash, and encoder measurement also affect the accuracy of the linear motion system. In this paper, the proposed experimental data-based modelling of the linear motion system using learning algorithms help the user to configure the motion parameters easily and also reduce the positional errors due to mechanical and measurement error factors. Learning algorithms such as the neural network (NN) and machine learning (ML) algorithms are used to compare and formulate the best model that gives the least root mean squared error (RMSE). The comparison and experimental validation show that the Gaussian process regression (GPR) model outperforms all other models.
A high-resolution exponential spline method and its convergence analysis for two-point mixed boundary value problems
Authors: Sharma Sachin , Kaur Kirandeep 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

In this article, we present a new numerical method for effectively solving general second-order ordinary differential equations with mixed boundary conditions. Our approach utilizes a quasi-variable mesh enabling us the flexibility to adapt the mesh density according to different boundary layer problems. By employing a discretization technique that incorporates the construction of exponential spline, we achieve third-order accuracy at internal grid points, while boundary points exhibit fourth-order accuracy. This technique is particularly beneficial while dealing with singular problems since it is based on two half step and one central point and thus it obviates the necessity for any alterations while solving these problems. We provide computational results to demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed method in solving problems. A comparison with recent findings underscores the superior performance of our method.
Zinc dampens anti-tumour immunity by promoting Foxp3+ regulatory T cells
Authors: Awasthi Amit , Narayan Sugandha , Dalal Rajdeep , Rizvi Zaigham Abbas 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

The role of zinc (Zn) in tumor development and immune modulation has always been paradoxical. This study redefines our understanding of the impact of Zn on cancer progression and therapeutic strategies. Our findings show that high dietary Zn promotes tumor progression by fostering a pro-tumorigenic environment mediated by T cells. In contrast, deficiency in dietary Zn and chelation of tissue Zn emerge as potent drivers of anti-tumor immunity. We elucidated that increased Zn intake facilitates tumor progression by fostering Foxp3 + regulatory T cells (Tregs) frequency. Remarkably, we have pinpointed FOXO1 as the master regulator governing the influence of Zn on Tregs, elucidating a novel mechanistic insight. Finally, we introduce a promising therapeutic approach by showing that administering Clioquinol (CQ) significantly enhances αPD-1 immunotherapy response, particularly in melanoma. These revelations transform our comprehension of multifaceted role of Zn in tumorigenesis and immune regulation, highlighting innovative possibilities for cancer therapy.
Assessment of a Novel Xanthan Gum-based Composite for Oil Recovery Improvement at Reservoir Conditions; Assisted with Simulation and Economic Studies
Authors: Khattab Hamid , Gawish Ahmed A. , Hamdy Abdelnaser , Gomaa Sayed , El-hoshoudy A. N. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Chemical flooding is a crucial technique in petroleum recovery. Although synthetic polyacrylamides are widely used, they suffer from hard reservoir conditions (high salinity, temperature, and pressure) and high costs. Current efforts focus on eco-friendly and affordable biopolymers like xanthan gum to overcome these issues. This study screens xanthan gum modification to improve its rheological properties and tolerance to high temperature, salinity, and shearing action by copolymerizing it with vinyl silane, vinyl monomers, and silica nanoparticles. The new composite was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) tests. Its implementation was evaluated in polymer flooding at 2200 psi pressure, 135,000 ppm salinity, and 196°F temperature. Unlike previous studies that evaluated xanthan gum at 176 degrees °F, 1800 psi, and 30,000 ppm, without combining those three factors in one experiment. The rheological properties of native and composite xanthan were examined at reservoir conditions, as well as their viscoelastic properties (G‵ and G‶). Flooding runs used actual Bahariya formation cores at the lab scale. Simulation studies were conducted on a lab/field scale using the tNavigator simulator and economic feasibility to calculate the net present value. The most outcoming findings of this research comprise 1) investigating the impact of salinity, temperature, and pressure on the rheological properties of native and composite xanthan. 2) The composite xanthan exhibits more resistant criteria, as it recovered 27% residual oil versus 22% for native xanthan. 3) Modeling and simulation studies exhibit 48% oil recovery for composite versus 39% for native xanthan and 37% for water flooding. 4) Economically, using native and composite xanthan through enhanced oil recovery methods increased net present value to $32mm and $58mm versus traditional methods.
Genetic diversity and population structure of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) germplasm from Sierra Leone and Togo based on KASP- SNP genotyping
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ranjana , Luseni Mohammed Mambu , Ametefe Komivi , Agre Paterne A. , Kumar P. Lava , Grenville-Briggs Laura J. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) is a tropical tree species belonging to Malvaceae family and originated in the lowland rainforests of the Amazon. It is one of the major agricultural commodities contributing towards the GDP (gross domestic product) of West African countries contributing about 70% of world’s production.
Methodology
A sample of 376 cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) germplasm accessions (235 from Sierra Leone and 141 from Togo) collected from different seed gardens and farmers’ fields across the cacao producing states/regions of these countries were assembled for genetic diversity and population structure studies using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. The 376 cacao accessions were genotyped using 20 highly informative and reproducible KASP-SNPs markers. The genetic diversity among different accessions was assessed using three complementary clustering methods including the model-based population structure, discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC), and phylogenetic trees. A network analysis was further carried out to understand the genetic relationships among cacao accessions from Sierra Leone and Togo. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) was carried out to estimate the genetic differentiation among and within groups.
Results
The STRUCTURE and DAPC exhibited some consistency in the allocation of accessions in subpopulations or groups, although some discrepancy was identified in the grouping based on these two methods. Hierarchical clustering analysis grouped all the individuals into two major groups and represented several sub-clusters. AMOVA revealed high genetic diversity (86%) within accessions. A high rate of mislabeling/duplicate genotype names was revealed in both countries, which may be attributed to errors from the sources of introduction, labeling errors, and lost labels.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates the use of KASP-SNPs for fingerprinting that can help identify mislabeled accessions and provide strong evidence for improving the accuracy and efficiency in cacao germplasm management as well as distribution of correct materials to farmers.
Estimating The Employment and GDP Multipliers of Emergency Cash Transfers in Brazil
Authors: Cunha Daniel , Pereira Joana , Perrelli Roberto , Toscani Frederik 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
We estimate the subnational employment and GDP multiplier of Brazil’s 2020 federal cash transfers to vulnerable households. Using two-stage least squares regressions we estimate a formal employment multiplier and then apply an analytical transformation to recover an implied GDP multiplier in the range of 0.5-1.5. The lower bound of this range lies below most estimates in the literature, which may result from the exceptional constraints imposed by the pandemic on supply chains and consumption. Nevertheless, even using the lower end of our range implies that federal cash transfers played an important role in supporting employment and GDP.
JEL: E62, H53, R50
Social Media Information and COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Uptake: A Study of Shomolu Local Government in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulganiyu Abdulazeez Opeyemi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: In an attempt to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic, health workers, biologists, and scientists have developed a vaccine that will ameliorate its presence among the human population. This study investigated specific objectives such as the nature of messages, conspiracy theories, and beliefs in efficacy and how these influence COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake among Shomolu residents.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was used to generate data for this study. The location was Shomolu local government area (LGA) in Lagos. A multistage sampling technique was utilized to select the respondents in the survey. A structured questionnaire with the aid of Kobo Toolbox was used to collect data, while the frequency count and percentage and a chi-square were used to achieve the objective of the study.
Results: A total of 400 respondents were selected. 254 of the respondents (63.5%) explained that most of the information disseminated on the vaccine was not valid enough to convince people, and 345 (86.5%) specified that conspiracy contents were so prevalent as to disrupt the acceptance and uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine. The findings of the study at a p-value of <0.05 showed that there is a significant relationship between social media information and COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake.
Conclusion: Participants in the research setting experienced lower vaccination rates, and health disparities and inequities can grow. As a result, initiatives such as a nationwide communication and behavioral intervention campaign that ensures high enough vaccination coverage against the COVID-19 virus should be implemented.
Tethered Cord Syndrome and Split Cord Malformation: A Retrospective Review with Advanced Surgical Technique
Authors: Qudsieh Suhair M. , Barbarawi Mohammed M. , Alkhataybeh Redab A. , Amarin Zouhair O. , Barbarawi Ala M. , Barbarawi Mahmoud H. , Jarrar Sultan M. , Jaradat Amer A. , Alhourani Malek , Ghammaz Owais 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Tethered cord syndrome is a rare condition resulting from compression due to congenital anomalies. This study aims to report surgical findings and outcomes in managing tethered cord syndrome. We retrospectively studied 48 patients diagnosed between October 2009 and December 2017. Demographic, clinical, radiological, and surgical details were reviewed, including neurological, urological, and orthopedic findings. 72.9% pediatric, and 27.1% adults. Neurologic, skin, and orthopedic manifestations were observed in 35%, 31%, and 48% of patients. Lower limb weakness was most common (94%). 44% had a split cord, with type I more common in pediatric patients and type II more common in adults. All underwent surgical intervention, showing significant long-term improvement in neurological, orthopedic, and urological symptoms. Only 8% had moderate improvement; two cases required redoing untethering and adhesiolysis. Timely surgical intervention, including untethering, decompression, and anomaly resection, yields significant neurological outcomes in tethered cord syndrome management.
Research collaboration and knowledge development in Africa: the case of neonatal conditions
Authors: Vieira Elizabeth S. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

The literature has discussed the positive/negative effects of research collaboration (RC). However, there is no study that looks at the effect of RC especially international research collaboration (IRC) on key developments in a research area. Using Main Path Analysis (MPA), I examined the literature on neonatal conditions (NC) produced by African scientists between 2000 and 2019. I found the (1) estimates of deaths of children under five years and their causes, with a focus on neonates and stillbirths, (2) usefulness of tools to collect data on NC-related variables, (3) identification of interventions to reduce deaths, and (4) treatment of hyperbilirubinemia in African neonates as the most important developments in NC in Africa. The high presence of articles with RC, in the MPA, especially those involving IRC between one or more scientists from a single African country and scientists from several non-African countries (60% of the studies) highlights the positive effect of RC on key developments of an area. About 40% of the articles make a reference to the Saving Newborns Lives programme, the Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group (CHERG) or the departments of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Children Attending Some Schools in Amran Governorate, Yemen
Authors: Al-Hadheq Ali Ahmed , Al-Eryani Mohammed Abdullah , Edrees Wadhah Hassan , Al-Nosary Taha Abdual-Aziz 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background and Aim: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are a global health issue among schoolchildren with high morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to find out the prevalence of intestinal parasite infections among schoolchildren in the governorate of Amran, Yemen.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out among schoolchildren aged 7–15 years old in Amran governorate between December 2021 and March 2022. A total of 200 stool specimens were collected, and the detection of intestinal parasitic species was performed according to standard laboratory methods. The required information was collected through a structured questionnaire, and the data was statistically analyzed.
Results: The overall rate of parasite infection was 48%. Students in public schools showed a higher rate of parasite infection compared to students in private schools (57% vs. 39%; P = 0.011). Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent parasite among children (25%), followed by Giardia lamblia (13.5%), Entamoeba coli (12%), Enterobius vermicularis (10%), and Hymenolepis nana (6.5%). Furthermore, a higher prevalence of infection was observed among males (57%), the age group of 7–10 years (45%), individuals with basic education (60.7%), individuals who consume treated water (54.1%), and individuals who consume unwashed vegetables and fruits (57.7%). Additionally, a higher prevalence of infection was observed among individuals who do not wash their hands after defecation (57.7%) and individuals who maintain their nails (54.8%).
Conclusion: As a result of the high prevalence of IPIs among the study's participants, environmental sanitation, personal hygiene, and health education are all required for promotion in order to avoid parasitic infection among children.
Does Financial Development influence Environmental Quality? Evidence from Emerging and Developing Countries
Authors: Elatroush Ibrahim 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

The paper aims to investigate the impact of financial development (FD), and other control variables on environmental quality. The sample incorporates fifty emerging and developing countries from 1980 to 2020. The pooled mean group/auto regressive distributed lag (PMG/ARDL) technique is used to estimate variables. Prior estimate the model, unit roots and cross section dependence tests are performed. Subsequently, second generation unit root CIPS tests for constant and trend are run for study variables. Countries are classified into groups to determine the impact of FD, and other variables on environmental quality denoted by CO2 emissions. Dumitrescu Hurlin causality tests are also performed. Results reveal a positively significant relationship between variables, and CO2 for some group countries in which they contribute to environmental degradation. However, there is a negatively significant relationship between study variables and CO2 for other grouping countries which involves a positive impact on enhancing environmental quality. The reasoning behind contradictory results within different groups in the study may be attributed to variability in countries in which they may vary in FD levels, income levels, and other socioeconomic factors. To improve environmental quality, policymakers, authorities, and financial bodies have to focus on FD indicators that enhance environmental quality via environmentally friendly products, motivating environmentally friendly projects, eliminating polluted activities, increasing the usage of renewable energy and eliminating nonrenewable energy usage.
Simulation of sediment yield and evaluation of best management practices in Azuari watershed, Upper Blue Nile Basin
Authors: Mequanient Mamaru Bitew , Kebede Habtamu Hailu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This study was conducted to simulate the sediment yield and evaluate best management practices (BMPs) for sediment control in the Azuari watershed, Upper Blue Nile basin, Ethiopia using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. As inputs for the model, 30 years (1991–2020) of daily values of meteorological data were used. For model simulation, daily stream flow and sediment data were collected for the periods from 1988 to 2012. The study area was delineated into 19 subwatersheds and the sediment yield was estimated in each subwatershed using the modified universal soil loss equation. The average simulated sediment yield in the watershed was found to be 10.81 t/ha/yr. Six subwatersheds were identified to have high to severe sediment yields and are considered hotspot areas which require prior mitigation measures to control sediment. Four soil and conservation measures were evaluated in SWAT as BMPs namely filter strip, terracing, strip cropping, and contouring. Filter strip was found to reduce sediment by 35.61%, terracing by 20.44%, strip cropping by 44.12%, and contouring by 43.6%. Thus, the implementation of strip cropping resulted in maximum sediment yield reduction. The findings of the study would help to make informed decisions on best watershed management strategies.