Market Survey Research Articles

Contribution of plant-based dairy and fish alternatives to iodine nutrition in the Swiss diet: a Swiss Market Survey

PurposeWith dairy products and fish being major sources of iodine in Switzerland, the growing popularity of plant-based alternatives may impact iodine nutrition. This study aimed to assess the iodine content in plant-based dairy and fish alternatives available in the Swiss market and compare them with conventional products.MethodsIn 2022, a market survey was conducted in Zurich, Switzerland, to identify the plant-based dairy and fish alternatives available and assess their iodine content. To evaluate the impact of plant-based alternatives on iodine consumption in Switzerland, we modeled dietary scenarios by substituting the intake of dairy and fish items with plant-based alternatives. In addition, we investigated fortification with calcium, vitamins B2, B12, and D.ResultsOut of 477 identified products, only four milk-alternative products were iodine fortified (median iodine concentration: 22.5 μg/100 ml). The median iodine concentration in unfortified plant-based alternatives was negligible compared to conventional dairy and fish products (milk: 0.21 vs 9.5 μg/100 ml; yogurt 0.36 vs 6.1 μg/100 g; cheese: 0.10 vs 20 μg/100 g; fish 0.50 vs 44 μg/100 g). Three portions of dairy per day as recommended by the Swiss Food Pyramid provide 25% of the RDA for iodine (150 μg/day), whereas substituting those with unfortified alternatives provides only 0.7% of the RDA.ConclusionOnly four out of 477 plant-based alternative products are iodine fortified in the Swiss market. Thus, the risk for consumers to miss out on the ca. 25% of the RDA for iodine by consuming plant-based alternatives is high, placing them at a risk for inadequate iodine intake.

Illegal wildlife trade: An analysis of carnivore products found in markets in Benin and Niger

West Africa is home to one of the largest protected area systems in Africa, the W-Arly- Pendjari (WAP) Complex, which provides a last refuge for many threatened carnivore species extirpated from most other protected areas in the region. However, rising global demand for wildlife products has increased concerns about the impacts of Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) on these species. To assess the extent of IWT, covert market surveys were conducted in Benin and Niger to identify wildlife products and derivatives coming from carnivore species (African civet, serval, caracal, lion, cheetah, leopard, and spotted hyena) suspected to be targeted by IWT. When possible, information about product origin was gathered to understand trading routes. Data were analysed to determine if products were available in markets due to their proximity to source populations or due to accessibility to trade and transport hubs. A variety of products from several threatened species, including multiple lion skins, were found in Benin and Niger. Products were found more frequently in markets near the WAP Complex and main trade and transport hubs. Sellers reported that a large majority of products originated from international trade, but some could also have been sourced from the WAP Complex. There was little evidence indicating that product availability was more affected by the distance to the WAP Complex than by the distance to international transport hubs, suggesting that trade was widespread across both countries. The study provides an evidence base and monitoring baselines to identify and assess interventions to address IWT and ultimately reduce illegal trafficking of wildlife.

Morphological characteristics, genetic diversity, and ethnobotanical uses of Citrus hongheensis (Rutaceae), an endangered species

The species Citrus hongheensis is an endangered species and the most primitive Citrus species with the most developed winged leaves. It is endemic to south Yunnan Province, southwest China, and only distributed in a very narrow area along the south bank of the Honghe river (the Yuanjiang river). By combining ISSR and morphological data from 11 populations, it shows that the species has rich genetic diversity among and within populations although the population is declining gradually. According to field and market surveys, the local Hani people have traditionally used C. hongheensis for a long time, such as the dried young fruits of the species as Chinese traditional medicine, leaves as food spice, as well as other organs. By collecting all existing knowledge of traditional and present uses, as well as further potential uses, we demonstrate that the species has good development prospects. Based on rich diversity, ethnobotanical uses, and a positive cultural environment, it was decided to choose four populations (YJNNDM, LCDX, HHDYJ, and YJYJYJ) of C. hongheensis for in situ conservation and artificial sexual reproduction. This will allow to develop new uses of the species, while providing indications for the conservation of other endangered species.

Baobab trees population and economic contribution: Stems density, asset value and fruits value chains in Kilolo and Iringa Urban districts, Tanzania

The contribution of non-timber forest products to the economy is ignored and often undervalued due to their subsistence nature. The study focused on baobab trees aiming to understand the baobab population, its asset value across various land uses, and the contribution of baobab fruits to the economy. Kilolo District and Iringa Urban District were purposively selected due to the availability of baobab trees and activities involving baobab fruit businesses in the districts. A stratified random sampling was done to select four land uses, in particular, settlement land, farmland, grazing land, and village forest reserve land for a biophysical survey. Besides, a socio-economic survey was conducted employing key informants’ interviews, market and household surveys to collect data for the assessment of baobab fruit value chains. A total of 91 respondents were interviewed, specifically, 44 harvesters, 1 village wholesaler, 2 middlemen, 2 village retailers, 6 processors 22 urban retailers, and 13 baobab fruits consumers. The study observed 5.27±0.39 stems/ha of baobab trees in grazing land, farmland (3.88±0.73stem/ha), village forest reserve land (2.68±0.17stem/land), and settlement land (2.27±0.31 stem/ha). Also, the total biological asset value of baobab trees was highest in farmland (29.87±9.04 USD/ha) and lowest in settlement land (12.36±2.82 USD/ha). Total chain value added was highest for the baobab fruits value chain involving village wholesalers (1.17 USD/Kg) and lowest for the baobab fruits value chain involving village retailers (0.27 USD/Kg) because of limited value-adding activities in the latter chain. Limited access to market information, low prices, poor storage facilities, lack of capital, poor processing facilities, and seasonal availability of baobab fruits were challenges facing baobab fruits value chain actors. The study concludes that the population of baobab trees differs between land uses implying the potential threats to its existence, and the need for desirable strategies for its conservation and management. So far, baobab is only harvested from self-growing trees, so the study proposes domestication and commercialization of the tree species to raise communities' contribution to the economy.

33 An evaluation of Oklahoma beef producer decision factors regarding the implementation of calf best management practices

Abstract Oklahoma State Ag Economics and Animal Science Specialists implement the Oklahoma Beef Management and Marketing Survey approximately every 5 yr. Data from the 2017 survey indicated that 82% of producers practiced castration, 87% dewormed, 75% trained calves to feed bunks, 63% weaned calves for a minimum of 45 days, and 49% administered two rounds of respiratory vaccinations (Barnes et al., 2023). Using data from the 2017 survey, the objectives of this study were to evaluate incentives and constraints to producer implementation of calf best management practices and to analyze relationships between individual management practices and marketing calves at weaning ( < 30 d weaned) or following a weaning period (≥ 30 d weaned). Management practices evaluated included castration, deworming, feed bunk training, a minimum 45-d weaning period, and the administration of two rounds of respiratory vaccines. A total of 1,495 surveys were returned. When asked to indicate management incentives (why the practice was implemented), n = 1,375, n = 1,348, n = 1,070, n = 937, and n = 937 responses were recorded regarding castration, deworming, bunk training, 45-d weaning period, and respiratory vaccination, respectively. Survey data indicated 30%, 17%, 18%, 21%, and 21% of respondents felt that buyers paid a premium for the practices of castration, deworming, bunk training, 45-d weaning period, and respiratory vaccination, respectively. Survey responses illustrated that 22% and 19% of producers felt that deworming and bunk training, respectively, improved calf marketability. A total of 12% of respondents indicated that announcing days weaned and vaccination history at the time of sale improved calf value. When asked to indicate constraints to implementing management practices, n = 211, n = 277, n = 258, n = 388, and n = 542 responses were recorded regarding castration, deworming, bunk training, 45-d weaning period, and respiratory vaccination, respectively. According to survey results 15%, 26%, 20%, 17%, and 25% of producers felt that castration, deworming, bunk training, 45-d weaning period, or administering respiratory vaccinations, respectively, provided no benefit to their operations. Data illustrated that 7%, 9%, 10%, 9%, and 9% of respondents were unaware of any added value for the practices of castration, deworming, bunk training, 45-d weaning period, and administering respiratory vaccines. Relationships between the management practices of castration, deworming, and providing respiratory vaccines and the decision to market calves at weaning or post-weaning were evaluated. Data indicated weak significant negative correlation coefficients of -0.25, -0.28, and -0.21 for castration, deworming, and respiratory vaccines, respectively, and marketing at weaning. Conversely, weak significant positive correlations of 0.25, 0.30, and 0.25, respectively, were observed for castration, deworming, and respiratory vaccines with marketing post-weaning. A substantial percentage of producers subscribed to calf best management practices. However, because the observed correlation coefficients were weaker than expected producer education regarding optimal marketing strategies may lead to an improvement in capturing market premiums related to management practices.

Understanding the Food Environment and Its Impact on Diet and Health in Asia: A Scoping Review.

Food environment (FE), an interface where people interact with a broader food system, is critical to health. Understanding the Asian FE may help to tackle the "triple burden of malnutrition" through informed research and policy. This review identifies FE domains assessed in the Asian context and collates the tools/measures used in these evaluations. We further synthesized the reported associations of FE with diet and health outcomes and identified knowledge gaps. Forty-two articles were reviewed (East Asia, n = 25, 60%; South Asia, n = 8, 19%; and Southeast Asia, n = 9, 21%). The results showed that FE was frequently examined in children, adolescents, or adults, but data were scarce in older adults. Food availability (n = 30) and accessibility (n = 19) were popularly studied domains. Furthermore, FE was measured using geographic information systems (n = 18), market (n = 7), or stakeholder (n = 21) surveys. Twenty-eight (67%) articles assessed associations of FE exposures with diet (n = 12) and health (n = 21). Increased food availability and accessibility were associated with poorer dietary and health outcomes despite nonexisting validity and reliability reporting in 62% of articles. Limited high-quality studies emphasize the need for harmonized definitions, better study designs, and validated FE measures/tools in Asia. Improving the quality of FE research is critical to designing effective interventions to improve public health nutrition in Asia.

Study on Wild Edible Plant Used by Shinasha Ethnic Community at Metekel Zone, Northwest Ethiopia

Wild edible plants are an essential source of supplementary foods in many parts of Ethiopia. The aims of this study were to record and document wild edible plants used by shinasha ethnic community in Metekele Zone Northwestern Ethiopia. The Field surveys were conducted from Jun to Dec, 2022. Semi-structured interview, direct observation, focus group discussion, guided fled walks, and market surveys were used to collect data. A total of 120 informants were participated in interviewed. Descriptive statistical was made to analyze the data using SPSS version.20. A total 46 wild edible plants belonging to 38 genera and 30 families were recorded. Family Moraceae were the most popular edible plant. Trees were the dominant life forms (36.9%) and ripe fruits (58.6%) recorded plants par used in study area. The majority of (14 specie) were collected from natural forest followed by riverine banks habitat (12species). The majority of wild edible plants are mainly harvested and consumed during autumn followed by summer season. Based on the market surveys eight wild edible plants were sold and can provide additional income to the local community in study districts. The wild edible plants were consumed as raw. Agricultural land expansion, fuel wood collection, cutting for construction, uncontrolled fire and overgrazing were the major threats to the wild edible plants. Hence, the finding recommend that the community that practice in on-site and off-site conservation, public awareness raising, which requires participation the government's on sustainable forest management practices approach would help to protect wild edible plant in study area.

Ethnobotanical study of wild edible plants in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia

BackgroundPlants deliver livelihood and food for millions of people in the world. Indeed, wild edible plants support rural communities in developing countries to overcome seasonal unfavorable conditions. In rural areas of Ethiopia, wild edible plants play an indispensable role in fighting food insecurity as emergency or supplementary foods. Hence, this research was aimed at studying the ethnobotanical assessment of wild edible plants in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, western Ethiopia.MethodsEthnobotanical data was collected using a semi-structured interview, field observation, focus group discussions, a market survey, and the ranking of selected plants. Besides, voucher specimens were collected and stored at the National Herbarium of Ethiopia. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and familiarity index were computed for data analysis.ResultsThis study has documented 54 wild edible plant species belonging to 33 plant families and 46 genera. Of these, most (38.90%) had tree growth habits. Wild edible plants bear mostly fruits (72.20%) as edible parts. Local people usually consume these plants freshly raw as complementary foods, though some wild edibles require processing. They were mostly harvested in the January (31.48%) and May (27.78%) months, with the least collected in September (7.41%). Most wild edible plants (78.57%) were available in uncontrolled habitats, while others (21.43%) live in farmlands, home gardens, and as live fences. Out of the recorded plants, about 98% had additional uses besides their nutritional values.ConclusionWild edible plants assist the livelihoods of the local people in food security, agriculture, energy sources, construction, medicines, ecological services, aesthetics, income generation, and household utensils. Nevertheless, wild edible plants are recently threatened due to various anthropogenic factors in the study area. Thus, they need wise use and in-situ and ex-situ conservation measures from all the concerned bodies for sustainable use in the future.

Comprehensive quality evaluation of different types of Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi) and Shuizhizi based on LC-MS/MS.

Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi) serves as both a medicinal and edible substance and finds widespread use in various industries. There are often two kinds of medicinal materials in the market: Zhizi and Shuizhizi. Typically, Zhizi with small, round fruit is used for medicinal purposes, while Shuizhizi, characterized by large, elongated fruit, is employed for dyeing. Market surveys have revealed a diverse range of Zhizi types, and modern research indicates that Shuizhizi contains rich chemical components and pharmacological activities. In this study, we collected 25 batches of Zhizi and Shuizhizi samples, categorizing them based on appearance into obovate and round fruits, with seven length grades (A-G). Using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QQQ-MS/MS) method, we simultaneously quantified 13 main chemical components in fruits of Gardenia species. In addition, we compared the weight percentage of the pericarp, flesh, and seeds parts of samples with different traits, and quantified 13 chemical components in different parts. Results indicated that, aside from a few instances of overlapping fruit size ranges, Shuizhizi generally exhibits larger and longer dimensions than Zhizi. The weight proportion of the Shuizhizi pericarp is often higher than that of the Zhizi pericarp. Quantitative results highlighted significant differences in the chemical component content between Zhizi and Shuizhizi, with Shuizhizi generally containing higher levels of iridoids. The PCA and OPLS-DA analysis distinctly divided Shuizhizi and Zhizi, among which three iridoids, two organic acids, and one flavonoid made significant contributions to their classification. Cluster heatmap analysis also demonstrated complete separation between Zhizi and Shuizhizi, with clear distinctions among Zhizi samples from different origins. The distribution of the 13 chemical components in different Zhizi and Shuizhizi parts remained consistent, with iridoids and pigments concentrated in the seeds and flesh, and two organic acids and one flavonoid enriched in the pericarp. In summary, this study contributes valuable insights for classifying Zhizi and offers guidance on the rational use of Shuizhizi and the different parts of Zhizi.

Wavelet Analysis and Forecasting using Open-Access Lumber Market Indices for Assessing the Impact of Hurricanes on Southern US Stumpage Prices

Abstract In the aftermath of events such as hurricanes, the economic impact of downed timber can reach billions of dollars. Accurate forecasting of stumpage prices after such events is crucial for maximizing recovery value while minimizing salvage costs. However, this poses challenges because of the inherent nature of the data. This study addresses these challenges by exploring the application of wavelet analysis, a novel approach in the field of forestry economic analysis. Wavelet analysis offers a unique framework for studying periodic phenomena in time series data, particularly when frequency changes over time are present. By leveraging wavelet analysis, this study uncovers relationships between timber market indices and hurricane seasons. The combination of traditional correlation analysis and wavelet coherence analysis enhances the statistical analysis in this study, offering a comprehensive examination of the relationship between the Timber Market Survey data and market indices. This innovative analytical approach enables a deeper understanding of the dynamics of the timber market and the potential effects of hurricanes on timber prices. Furthermore, this research highlights the recent advancements in wavelet methodology and the availability of open-source packages in the programming language R, such as WaveletComp and WaveletArima, that facilitate wavelet analysis and time series forecasting. The Wavelet-ARIMA model used in this study demonstrates its effectiveness in reducing noise and improving prediction accuracy. The study incorporates an extensive data set consisting of 10 Consumer Price Indices, 7 Producer Price Indices, 30 state-wide Timber Market Survey indices, 54 TMS subregions, and 6 open market series.

Multicriteria decision-making tool for investigating the feasibility of the green roof systems in Egypt

Urbanization in Egypt detracts from green spaces, reduces the per capita green ratio, and increases adverse effects such as heat islands, air pollution, and energy consumption. In addition, it affects social human comfort issues. In this context, building rooftops is a potential solution that could reduce the impact of green space scarcity. Such a solution has multiple evidence-based environmental, economic, and social benefits. Consequently, numerous governmental and private initiatives have spread the rooftop greening concept in Egypt. These initiatives have adopted several planting systems, such as soil-based, deep-water culture, and nutrient film technique systems. This manuscript examines these prevalent systems through environmental, economic and social lenses. This paper pioneers a user-centric tool to facilitate the system selection that aligns with individual needs. An analysis was conducted to ascertain the value of various factors influencing system choice, encompassing a literature review, expert opinion solicitation, market survey, and energy simulation. The Analytical Hierarchy Processes methodology was proposed to appraise the factors, aiding in arriving at an informed decision. The paper presents a novel contribution by studying many factors spanning diverse scientific domains. Furthermore, creating an accessible decision-support tool encapsulates a substantial addition to the body of knowledge.

Investigation of E-Business Motivation Among Batik SMEs in Indonesia

Purpose: This research explores how to establish a conceptual framework for an empirical model of e-business motivation in small organizations, while most e-business studies focus on large companies. To explain SMEs' tactics and features, notably family businesses' increased e-business motivation. Theoretical Framework: Technological developments have an impact on changing business management patterns, many business opportunities can be captured by companies including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to be able to expand the market and increase sales. Design/Methodology/Approach: ANOVA analysis was used for quantitative analysis. This research took a sample of 122 Batik SMEs from the Batik center villages of Klaten, Jarum, Beluk, Banyuripan, and Kebon Regencies. The sampling method was purposive, namely by using batik SMEs that have used social media or websites to carry out promotions and sales. Findings: SMEs in the innovator category were more driven than reactors. Innovative companies succeeded in internet marketing, communication, and profit. However, the two groups employed e-business for study similarly. This shows that innovators and reactor companies have not fully adopted the e-business market or industry surveys. Implications of Research: This research shows that the success of e-business practices, especially electronic promotion and selling, will increase with strategic orientation that strives for innovation, as market coverage expands, and business duration increases. Originality/Value: E-business strategies and competencies in small businesses are infrequently investigated, whereas major enterprises are extensively studied. demonstrates that SMEs have distinct firm structures and HR development programs than major companies, hence their e-business practices will differ.

Investigation of E-Business Motivation Among Batik SMEs in Indonesia

Purpose: This research explores how to establish a conceptual framework for an empirical model of e-business motivation in small organizations, while most e-business studies focus on large companies. To explain SMEs' tactics and features, notably family businesses' increased e-business motivation. Theoretical Framework: Technological developments have an impact on changing business management patterns, many business opportunities can be captured by companies including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to be able to expand the market and increase sales. Design/Methodology/Approach: ANOVA analysis was used for quantitative analysis. This research took a sample of 122 Batik SMEs from the Batik center villages of Klaten, Jarum, Beluk, Banyuripan, and Kebon Regencies. The sampling method was purposive, namely by using batik SMEs that have used social media or websites to carry out promotions and sales. Findings: SMEs in the innovator category were more driven than reactors. Innovative companies succeeded in internet marketing, communication, and profit. However, the two groups employed e-business for study similarly. This shows that innovators and reactor companies have not fully adopted the e-business market or industry surveys. Implications of Research: This research shows that the success of e-business practices, especially electronic promotion and selling, will increase with strategic orientation that strives for innovation, as market coverage expands, and business duration increases. Originality/Value: E-business strategies and competencies in small businesses are infrequently investigated, whereas major enterprises are extensively studied. demonstrates that SMEs have distinct firm structures and HR development programs than major companies, hence their e-business practices will differ.

Study on medicinal food plants in the Gaoligongshan Biosphere Reserve, the richest biocultural diversity center in China

BackgroundTraditional knowledge associated with medicinal food plants (MFPs) plays a vital role in fighting hidden hunger and safeguarding the health of local people. MFPs resources are abundant in the Gaoligongshan area, a biosphere reserve with the richest biocultural diversity in China. Local people of different linguistic groups also have rich traditional botanical knowledge. However, there are still few comprehensive and systematic studies on MFPs there.MethodsEthnobotanical investigation including market survey, semi-structured interviews, free listing and key informant interviews was conducted in the Gaoligongshan area, Western Yunnan, Southwest China. A total of 13 local farmers’ markets were selected and information about medicinal food plants, including food categories, medicinal and edible parts, modes of consumption, medicinal effects, and distribution were collected. The relative occurrence frequency (RFO) and cultural food significance index (CFSI) were calculated to identify the culturally significant MFPs.ResultsA total of 184 species of MFPs, belonging to 83 families, were collected in the Gaoligongshan area, including vegetables (77), medicinal diets (26), fruits (25), spices (18), herbal tea (13), tea substitutes (11), substitutes for staple food (8), nuts (5), oils and fats (4), and dye material (1). The most frequently used families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Apiaceae, with 11, 10, and 9 species, respectively. The most frequently used plant parts were the stems, followed by fruits and leaves. Based on the evaluation results of the CFSI and RFO indices, 18 species of MFPs with magnificent local cultural importance have been screened out, such as Houttuynia cordata, Eryngium foetidum, Sechium edule, Centella asiatica and Pseudocydonia sinensis.ConclusionThese findings have guiding significance for conservation of traditional knowledge associated with MFPs and facilitation of scientific utilization of MFPs to meet local people’s needs for a healthy life.

Assessment of ultra processed foods consumption in Senegal: validation of the Nova-UPF screener

BackgroundUltra-processed foods (UPF), as proposed by the Nova food classification system, are linked to the development of obesity and several non-communicable chronic diseases and deaths from all causes. The Nova-UPF screener developed in Brazil is a simple and quick tool to assess and monitor the consumption of these food products. The aim of this study was to adapt and validate, against the 24-hour dietary recall, this short food-based screener to assess UPF consumption in the Senegalese context.MethodsThe tool adaptation was undertaken using DELPHI methodology with national experts and data from a food market survey. Following the adaptation, sub-categories were renamed, restructured and new ones introduced. The validation study was conducted in the urban area of Dakar in a convenience sample of 301 adults, using as a reference the dietary share of UPF on the day prior to the survey, expressed as a percentage of total energy intake obtained via 24-hour recall. Association between the Nova-UPF score and the dietary share of UPF was evaluated using linear regression models. The Pabak index was used to assess the agreement in participants’ classification according to quintiles of Nova-UPF score and quintiles of the dietary share of UPF.ResultsThe results show a linear and positive association (p-value < 0.001) between intervals of the Nova-UPF score and the average dietary share of UPF. There was a near perfect agreement in the distribution of individuals according to score’s quintiles and UPF dietary share quintiles (Pabak index = 0.84).ConclusionThe study concluded that the score provided by the Nova-UPF screener adapted to the Senegalese context is a valid estimate of UPF consumption.

Ethnobotanical study of traditional medicinal plants used by the local people in Habru District, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia

BackgroundEthiopia is a country located in the Horn of Africa, which combines richness in plant resources and cultures of human plant use. The people of Habru District of North Wollo Zone (Amhara Region, Ethiopia) have a long history of use of plant resources for various purposes including in traditional herbal remedy preparation and use. However, the district has not been adequately studied for its ethnobotanical resources and the associated knowledge. This study focused on human medicinal plants and their traditional uses in Habru District. The objective of the study was to document and analyze the plant species used by the local communities to treat human ailments along with the associated traditional knowledge and practices.MethodologyThe study was carried out in Habru District from June 2021 to December 2022. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews, guided field walks, 13 focus group discussions (one at the district level and 12 at the kebele/subdistrict level) and market surveys. A total of 388 informants (250 males and 138 females) were selected from all 13 kebeles within Habru District using systematic random sampling, and 42 key informants were purposively selected. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, informant consensus factor and fidelity level were applied for data analysis.ResultsThe results provide insights into the medicinal plant diversity within Habru District, where 134 plant species in 110 genera and 54 families were documented, including 2 endemics, highlighting the district’s significance in biodiversity conservation and healthcare delivery. Disease prevalence analysis showed that gastrointestinal and parasitic ailments (ICF = 0.85), febrile diseases (ICF = 0.84), and culture-related conditions exhibit high informant consensus factors. Remedy preparation involves various plant parts, predominantly leaves (47.3%), followed by roots (22.1%), fruits (7.0%), and seeds (5.8%). Freshly harvested plant parts were frequently used (58.2%), while 24.7% involved both dried and fresh parts. Oral application (47.3%) and topical use (31.8%) are the major routes of remedy administration. The marketability of medicinal plants was evident, with 16.4% of the species reported as marketable, including Terminalia brownii Fresen. Myrtus communis L., Ruta chalepensis L., Olea europaea L. subsp. cuspidata (Wall. & G.Don) Cif., Allium sativum L. and Capsicum annuum L. Multipurpose plants such as Solanum somalense Franchet. (91.3% FL), Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex. Benth. (88.9% FL), and Verbascum sinaiticum Benth. (85.7% FL) exhibited notable healing potentials.ConclusionThe current study underscores the intricate relationship between the local community and medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation and health care and acknowledging the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and ecosystem health. The results contribute to the development of sustainable conservation strategies, healthcare practices and the preservation of traditional knowledge, and highlight the interdependence of human societies and their natural environments. Community-based conservation initiatives with active participation of local communities are desirable for the conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plant species and their habitats. Raising public awareness about the sustainable harvesting and utilization of marketed medicinal plants (e.g., Terminalia brownii Fresen.) that are under threat is also important to ensure their availability for future generations and contribution to socioeconomic development.

The marine fishes from southern Mindanao, Philippines, including a DNA barcode reference library of commercially important species

The Philippines has been long known for its multispecies fisheries, and while there is a growing effort to document fish diversity, collections-based species inventories remain insufficient in southern Mindanao. Market survey efforts conducted in Pujada Bay, Davao Gulf, and Sarangani Bay in the last ten years resulted in documenting 556 species of marine fishes from 82 families, while underwater fish visual census (FVC) surveys conducted in Davao Gulf from 2019 to 2022 revealed 365 species in 42 families. Combining the data from market surveys, FVC, and published literature, we present 771 species of marine fishes (770 teleosts, 1 elasmobranch) belonging to 94 families. Of the 771 species documented, 130 are deep reef and deepwater species, while 20 species await further taxonomic investigations for species-level identifications.Moreover, 498 cytochrome oxidase I (COI) genetic barcodes were produced representing 357 species from 59 families, which covers 46% of the total number of species reported and 63% of the market survey data. Genetic distances based on taxonomic ranks were concordant with other barcoding studies on marine fishes. Samples (20 species) with pairwise genetic distances that did not conform with the expected intra- and interspecific threshold suggest cases that also need to be investigated further (e.g., incomplete lineage sorting, introgressive hybridization, crypticspeciation). All market survey data used in genetic barcoding correspond to tissue samples, live-color photographs, and preserved specimens. This work complements the DNA barcode libraries reported recently in the country, and this serves as an additional reference for future biodiversity management and conservation efforts.

Checklist of pests and diseases of fruits and vegetables in Bamenda, North West Region, Cameroon

Fruits and vegetables are an integral part of human diet attributed to their appealing flavour, taste, nutrients and health-promoting properties. However, in Cameroon, the agricultural system is constantly dealing with a decrease in fruit and vegetable yield due to diseases and pests’ infestation. The aim of this study was to identify diseases and pests of fruits and vegetables in farms and markets in Mezam Division. North West Region of Cameroon. A field survey was conducted in randomly selected farms in Mezam, Bamenda while a market survey was carried at Mile 3 Nkwen and the Bamenda food markets in December 2022 and January 2023 with the participation of secondary school Biology teachers as trainees. They were taught on the signs and symptoms of diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses on fruits and vegetables by plant pathologists while insect pests’ identification was taught by agriculture entomologists from the University of Bamenda. Pictures of infected vegetable and fruit parts were taken; host plant was identified and the pathogens causing disease was identified based on signs and symptoms and results presented on tables. Also, Infected vegetables and fruits samples were cultured in PDA and pure cultures were identified by use of cultural characters. Insect identification was done with the aid of photographs and by the use of a dichotomous key which was used to determine the orders of the different insect pests. High number of vegetables and fruits were found to be infected by fungi, bacterial and viral pathogens. The symptoms observed in farms and markets ranged from fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum on Passifora edulis, bacteria canker of Persea americana to leaf spot disease caused by Pleospora spp. on Talinum fruticosum. The insect pests identified were Dacus punctatifrons, Helicoverpa armigera, Podagrica spp., Bemisia tabaci and aphids. Some of these insect pests serve as vectors of plant diseases.

ОЦЕНКА ВИРТУАЛЬНЫХ РЫНКОВ И СОСТОЯНИЯ ЭЛЕКТРОННОЙ КОММЕРЦИИ В ДОНЕЦКОЙ НАРОДНОЙ РЕСПУБЛИКЕ

The article analyzes the state of e-commerce in the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), identifying key characteristics of online stores in various areas of their activities. The study covers the work of the Electronic Trading Platform of the Ministry of Economic Development of the DPR, which allows for a clear visualization of current trends and initiatives in this area. As part of the assessment of the virtual market, a marketing survey was conducted to study consumer commitment to online shopping, the results of which indicated certain preferences and behavior of consumers regarding online shopping, which can help entrepreneurs better understand the target audience. An expert assessment of the use of resources and capabilities of the digital business environment with an emphasis on Internet marketing tools was carried out, which revealed that the level of use of information resources remains low, which hinders the full disclosure of business potential in the virtual market. However, despite the identified shortcomings, there are significant opportunities to improve marketing strategies and increase the efficiency of enterprises in the virtual market.

Precision nutrition for type 2 diabetes in Benin: leveraging linear goal programming to optimize diets with emphasis on adequacy, affordability, accessibility, and culture.

Nutrition and diet are critical to managing Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Low-income households often face challenges maintaining a healthy and balanced diet due to food insecurity, availability, and cost. To address this issue, we used a linear goal programming (LGP) model to develop nutritionally adequate, affordable, accessible, and culturally acceptable diets for persons with T2D in Benin, a French-speaking sub-Saharan country. The goal was to help persons with T2D manage their condition more effectively. We compiled a robust list of local commonly consumed foods in Benin, and calculated their nutritional value using West African food composition tables and food costs per serving from a market survey. Using mathematical optimization techniques, we designed dietary plans that meet the daily nutrient intake recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent chronic diseases in normal adults. While adhering to dietary constraints of T2D, we developed optimized diet plans with varying energy levels that meet all nutrient requirements while considering availability, acceptability, and budgetary constraints. Fifty-two food items and recipes were evaluated to create six low-cost daily menus. Menu 1 was the most affordable at CFA 1,127 (USD 1.88), providing 1890 kcal of energy, while Menu 6 was the most expensive at CFA 1,227 (USD 2.05), providing 1749 kcal. All the menus met the daily WHO minimum requirements for carbohydrates, fat, cholesterol, and fiber content, while other nutrients such as protein, vitamin C, and iron reached the upper limits of the acceptable value range. Linear goal programming can be an effective tool in helping to obtain optimized adequate, accessible, and culturally acceptable diets at minimal cost by interpreting and translating dietary recommendations into a nutritional model, based on local market prices.