The Scientific World Journal最新文献

Conformance checking is a method to compare the actually executed business process recorded as an event log with the business process described as a business process model and to identify differences. For human or technical reasons, event logs that contain noise and are of low quality may be recorded. Therefore, methods have been proposed to repair low-quality event logs, but they require the setting of a threshold, and it is difficult to set a suitable threshold. In this paper, we investigate the effect of low-quality event log repair methods on conformance checking. Through experiments, it was shown that the appropriate threshold depends on the type of event log and the amount of noise.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the ensiling characteristics of selected forage maize varieties harvested in sole and forage legume mixtures. Two different forage maize varieties were harvested in different forage systems, that is, sole maize, maize + common vetch and maize + lablab intercrops, and ensiled in small-scale silos. After ensiling, samples were collected to examine the nutrient composition, fermentation quality and microbial population. Ensiled forage varieties harvested in sole forage systems had a significantly (p < 0.05) lower dry matter and crude protein contents (31.18% and 7.15% DM, respectively) than that from forage legume mixtures. Forage legume mixtures had significantly (p < 0.05) lower neutral detergent and acid detergent fibre contents (24.42% and 35.53% DM, respectively) and higher water-soluble carbohydrates (12.34% DM) in silage of selected varieties than sole forage systems. The pH value and ammonia nitrogen content of ensiled forage varieties were lower, while lactic acid production (7.25% DM) was greater in forage legume mixtures than in sole forage system. Lower acetic and propionic acid and higher butyric acid contents (1.06%, 0.84% and 0.46% DM, respectively) were observed in sole forage system for silage of selected varieties compared to forage legume mixtures. Sole forage systems showed lower numbers of lactic acid bacteria and higher populations of enterobacteria (4.31 and 4.34 log₁₀ cfug^-1, respectively) in silages of selected varieties than forage legume mixtures. The study concluded that ensiling forage materials harvested in forage intercrops have a positive effect on the silage quality. Therefore, the recommended forage system for ensiling is forage legume mixtures.

Mn₃O₄ decorated with Cr₂O₃ was prepared via a cost-effective and straightforward photolysis method and utilized as an H₂S gas sensor. The nanocomposite exhibited excellent chemical sensing properties toward H₂S gas at 200°C, achieving a sensitivity of 89.93. A proposed sensing mechanism highlights the synergistic roles of Mn₃O₄ and Cr₂O₃ in gas detection. This study underscores the potential of Mn₃O₄-Cr₂O₃ composites in industrial and environmental monitoring applications, offering a reliable and efficient solution for detecting hazardous gases.

Food security is a paramount issue, particularly in developing nations like Ethiopia. Much of the existing research focuses on identifying the factors and constraints of households related to rural areas. However, little attention has been paid to urban householders' food security and insecurity. To this end, a study has been conducted in Gondar to evaluate urban household food security, sampling 357 homes. Results revealed that 67% of male-headed households were food secure and 33% were food insecure, while 72% of female-headed households were found food insecure and 28% were found food secure. Tenants faced higher insecurity (77%) versus homeowners (12%). The Foster-Greer-Thorbecke model highlighted 53% incidence, 14% depth, and 5.4% severity of insecurity. Tackling 15% of calorie needs could eradicate it with proactive regional governance. Binary logistic modelling identified gender, homeownership, income, marital status, remittance, and credit access as significant factors (p < 0.01). The study underscores the need for tailored programs focusing on income, stable pricing, housing, and low-interest loans which are crucial for addressing overcoming urban food insecurity.

The significance of water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes (C. Mart.) Solms (Pontederiaceae) vermicomposting lies in its ability to effectively manage its invasiveness while also improving soil fertility and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. This study evaluates the effects of charcoal addition on the composting followed by the vermicomposting of water hyacinth (WH) and cow manure, focusing on the growth, reproduction, and survival of Eisenia fetida earthworms and the quality of the resulting vermicompost. The treatments included WH and cow manure (2:1) with 7.5% charcoal (T1), 5% charcoal (T2), and without charcoal (T3). Composting (30 days) followed by vermicomposting (60 days) was conducted in a controlled greenhouse environment. Samples were collected biweekly to analyze temperature, moisture, pH, electrical conductivity, total nitrogen, total available phosphorous, and total potassium contents, vermicompost yield, and earthworm growth parameters throughout the process. Results showed that T1 and T2 significantly improved earthworm weight (8.23-16.0%), number of earthworms (65.0-69.0%), cocoon production (37.0-49.0%), and hatchling count (49.0-77.6%), compared to T3 (control). Also, T1 and T2 increased pH (4.30-5.75%), total nitrogen (53.6-62.5%), total available phosphorus (61.6-117%), and total potassium (47.5-71.3%) and reduced electrical conductivity (9.91%), total organic carbon (17.9-42.1%), carbon: nitrogen ratio (46.5-64.4%), and vermicompost mass (22.0-28.3%) at the end of the vermicomposting period, compared to T3. Moreover, T1 and T2 exhibited significantly higher lettuce seed germination (92.4-93.5%), germination index (76.2-80.4%), shoot elongation (46.0-92.5%), and root elongation (9.00-15.0%), compared to T3. However, in most of the results, there was no significant difference between T1 and T2. This finding suggests that the use of T2 (5.00%) charcoal addition enhances vermicompost quality to optimal maturity and stability.

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in developing nations such as Ethiopia. Determining epidemiological information of IPI is crucial for effective public health planning and intervention. The present study is aimed at assessing the prevalence and associated risk factors of human IPIs at Delgi Primary Hospital, Central Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2023. A stool specimen was collected from 404 selected participants and examined microscopically for the presence of developmental stages of the intestinal parasites. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information regarding the sociodemographic and associated risk factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 23, and a crude odd ratio was calculated to verify and measure the possible association between IPIs and potential risk factors. A p value < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 47.20%. Six species of intestinal parasites were identified: Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (16.8%) was the most predominant parasite, followed by Giardia lamblia (9.9%), Ascaris lumbricoides (8.1%), Hookworm species (7.6%), Schistosoma mansoni (4.2%), and Hymenolepis nana (0.5%). Furthermore, double and triple parasitic infections were observed in 10.39% and 0.49% of the study participants, respectively. Not having a habit of handwashing after toilet (AOR = 2.048, CI = 0.694, 3.583, p = 0.001), the habit of eating unwashed vegetables (AOR = 3.046, CI = 0.685, 5.596, p = 0.016), and presence of dirt matter under the nail (AOR = 2.939, CI = 0.621, 4.418, p = 0.001) were found to be significantly associated risk factors. This study showed that IPIs remained a public health concern in the study area. Therefore, regular provision of health education on personal hygiene and sanitation is recommended to prevent and control IPIs in the study area.

Neurodegenerative disorders are known to be commonly associated with neuroinflammation. Plants with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties hold prospect in alleviating neuroinflammation. One such plant with documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential is Salvia officinalis L. This study looked at effects of the hydroethanolic leaf extract of S. officinalis L. on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation and associated memory impairment using an ICR mouse model. Assessment of the phytochemical constituents in S. officinalis L. and its acute toxicity was conducted. Mice were treated with S. officinalis L. extract (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) after LPS administration. Object recognition and elevated plus maze tests were employed to assess neuroinflammation-induced behavioral changes. Brain samples were taken to determine the levels of TNF-α and conduct histopathological analysis. The hydroethanolic extract of S. officinalis L. was found to contain alkaloids, glycoside, tannins, flavonoids, and coumarins and exhibited no observable acute toxicity. The extract showed the presence of eicosatrienoic acid, methyl ester, and phenanthrene derivatives. The extract improved memory and cognitive performance but had no significant effect on brain tissue TNF-α expression. S. officinalis L. treatment in mice with neuroinflammation also resulted in reduced mononuclear infiltration and gliosis and reduced apoptotic and necrotic neurons as well as no observable brain lesions. S. officinalis L. holds promising pharmacological activity at reducing neuroinflammation and its associated cognitive impairment.

Background: Effective self-management behaviors are crucial for diabetes management. This study examines the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between compliance dimensions and self-management activities in patients with Type 1 diabetes. Methods: The current study explores a baseline analysis from a randomized controlled trial but the intervention's effectiveness is not reported here; the analysis focuses on elucidating potential mediating factors at baseline. The study investigated the relationships between seven compliance dimensions (treatment effort, intention, adaptability, integration, adherence, commitment, and indecisiveness) and six self-management activities (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, blood sugar monitoring, and foot care) through the potential mechanism of self-efficacy. Results: The analysis revealed an indirect association between three compliance dimensions (treatment effort, intention, and commitment) and foot care behavior, mediated by self-efficacy. Additionally, self-efficacy was identified as an indirect mechanism influencing the association between commitment and adaptability with dietary behaviors. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of self-efficacy in promoting self-management behaviors in chronic conditions. By targeting specific compliance dimensions that influence self-efficacy, healthcare professionals can potentially improve patient self-management. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials number: IRCT20221029056335N1.

Agro-nanotechnology-the application of nanotechnology in agriculture-holds immense promise for addressing main challenges in African agriculture and promoting sustainable development. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of how agro-nanotechnology is being utilized across Africa, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize various aspects of agricultural practices on the continent. Firstly, the utilization of nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, nanofertilizers, and nanopesticides offers opportunities for enhancing nutrient management, improving soil health, and increasing crop productivity in diverse agroecosystems across Africa. Nanofertilizers, with their controlled release mechanisms, facilitate efficient nutrient uptake by plants, thereby reducing nutrient losses and enhancing fertilizer use efficiency, which is crucial for resource-constrained smallholder farmers. Nanopesticides suggest improved efficacy in pest and disease control, reducing environmental harm compared to traditional pesticides. Their targeted delivery also minimizes off-target effects, which is crucial for Africa's food security. Nanosensors also enable real-time monitoring of soil and crop health, enhancing precision agriculture. Nanotechnology in postharvest management reduces food losses and improves safety. However, its adoption requires careful consideration of socioeconomic and regulatory factors to ensure equitable access and environmental safety. Collaborative efforts involving policymakers, researchers, farmers, and other stakeholders are crucial for harnessing the benefits of agro-nanotechnology while addressing potential risks and concerns. In conclusion, the integration of agro-nanotechnology into African agriculture presents a transformative opportunity to enhance productivity, resilience, and sustainability, contributing to the continent's efforts toward achieving food security, economic development, and environmental conservation.

Effective municipal solid waste management is a critical aspect of urban development. This study investigated the waste generation rate, composition, and current solid waste management plan in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia. A two-stage random sampling technique was implemented. Data collection involves onsite data collection, structured questionnaires, and semistructured interviews. The result indicated that retail trade emerges as the leading sector, generating nearly half of the total solid waste (49%), and the food service sector stands second. In terms of solid waste type, food waste constitutes a significant portion of the waste stream, with a daily generation of 10,817.51 kg. The paper and cardboard waste in the market centers were the second waste, accounting for 762.684 kg per day. The amount of plastic waste generated per day ranges from 157.946 to 493.253 kg, and because of its high volatile matter content (68.95%), it might be used to produce energy. Food waste and yard waste had a high moisture content of 63.25% and 40.14%, respectively, which makes them ideal for composting and biogas production. Among the seven study sites, Kebele 04 had a huge waste generation, which was 47% of the total waste generation, indicating a spatial disparity in waste production in the city. The results highlighted the immense potential for waste reuse and recycling, emphasizing the circular economic opportunities associated with sustainable waste management practices. The findings contribute valuable insights to urban planners and policymakers to implement sustainable solid waste management plans in the country.