Northwestern Region Research Articles

Prevalence of human papillomavirus genotypes in women of different ethnicity from rural northwestern Ecuador

BackgroundIn Ecuador, cervical cancer is the third most common cancer among women and the second most common cause of cancer-related death in women. Although HPV represents a serious public health problem worldwide, the information about its prevalence and genotypes in remote communities of Ecuador is limited. The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of HPV genotypes among ethnic minority women from two remote communities of the northwestern region of Ecuador: Afro-Ecuadorians and Chachis (Amerindian group).MethodsWe included 291 women who responded to a short survey and were screened for HPV by the amplification of the L1 gene and a nested multiplex PCR to detect 14 high risk (HR) genotypes. A survey collected information on ethnicity, age, community access, and sexual and gynecological history. We identified risk factors associated with HPV infection and co-infection using multivariate logistic regression to calculate odds ratio (OR) and Wald 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsOverall, HPV prevalence in the study cohort was 56%, and the five most common HR-HPV genotypes were HPV-58, -16, -68, -39, and -43; however, the distribution of HPV genotypes varied according to ethnicity. We identified lineage A (European variant) for HPV-16 and sublineage A2 for HPV-58 in both ethnic groups. Adjusting for ethnicity, age, community access, and number of sexual partners, we found that Afro-Ecuadorian women were less likely to have an HPV infection than Chachi women (OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.25, 0.96), and that participants in communities only accessible by river had 64% less chances of an HPV infection when compared to women in communities accessible by road (OR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.71), and women with 2 to 3 sexual partners had 2.47 times the odds of HPV infection than participants with 0–1 partners (OR: 2.47, 95% CI: 1.32, 4.6). Similar associations were observed with prevalence of co-infection.ConclusionsThis study provides baseline knowledge regarding the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes in ethnic groups of the northwestern coastal Ecuador and essential information for the implementation of appropriate HPV testing and vaccination program to prevent cervical cancer.

Two new species of tortricid moths (Lepidoptera: Olethreutinae: Olethreutini) injurious to Picea crassifolia in China

Two new species of the genus Pseudohermenias, P. absimilis sp. nov. and P. linxica sp. nov., are described from China. They feed on Picea crassifolia in the northwestern regions of the country. Photographs of the adult specimens and their genitalia are provided. Keys to the species of the genus based on the male and the female genitalia are presented.

Seismic coloured inversion to explore the hydrocarbon prospectivity of a field in the Upper Assam basin

This study demonstrates an integrated approach using a seismic-coloured inversion to derive the hydrocarbon potential of a field in the Upper Assam basin. The well-log analysis indicated the presence of hydrocarbon in the form of gas, oil, and water in sandstones with thin streaks of limestone and shale layers. The Acoustic Impedance (AI) model was generated from post-stack seismic data using a coloured inversion. Shale volume (Vshale), density, porosity and water saturation are the petrophysical parameters spatially populated using a multilayered feed-forward neural network on the inversion-based AI model. The estimated range of model-derived parameters varies as Velocity: 2136–5034 m/s, Vshale: 0–48%, Density: 2.14–2.72 gm/cc, Porosity: 6–29%, Water saturation: 9–28%, and demonstrates a reasonable correlation to well-log data. Seismic attribute for thin-fault likelihood was used to interpret the major faults. From the combined analysis based on interpreted faults and modelled parameters, the northwestern part of the study area displays a thick hydrocarbon-bearing zone (due to increasing thickness and reservoir quality). This interpretation is based on the consideration that faults are open. Thus, assuming continuity in the sequence, this northwestern region can be considered as one of the promising candidates for further exploration.

Spatiotemporal variability of lake surface water temperature and water quality parameters and its interrelationship with water hyacinth biomass in Lake Tana, Ethiopia.

Urbanization, agriculture, and climate change affect water quality and water hyacinth growth in lakes. This study examines the spatiotemporal variability of lake surface water temperature, turbidity, and chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) and their association with water hyacinth biomass in Lake Tana. MODIS Land/ Lake surface water temperature (LSWT), Sentinel 2 MSI Imagery, and in-situ water quality data were used. Validation results revealed strong positive correlations between MODIS LSWT and on-site measured water temperature (R = 0.90), in-situ turbidity and normalized difference turbidity index (NDTI) (R = 0.92), and in-situ Chl-a and normalized difference chlorophyll index (NDCI) (R = 0.84). LSWT trends varied across the lake, with increasing trends in the northeastern, northwestern, and southwestern regions and decreasing trends in the western, southern, and central areas (2001-2022). The spatial average LSWT trend decreased significantly in pre-rainy (0.01 ℃/year), rainy (0.02 ℃/year), and post-rainy seasons (0.01℃/year) but increased non-significantly in the dry season (0.00 ℃/year) (2001-2022, P < 0.05). Spatial average turbidity decreased significantly in all seasons, except in the pre-rainy season (2016-2022). Likewise, spatial average Chl-a decreased significantly in pre-rainy and rainy seasons, whereas it showed a non-significant increasing trend in the dry and post-rainy seasons (2016-2022). Water hyacinth biomass was positively correlated with LSWT (R = 0.18) but negatively with turbidity (R = -0.33) and Chl-a (R = -0.35). High spatiotemporal variability was observed in LSWT, turbidity, and Chl-a, along with overall decreasing trends. The findings suggest integrated management strategies to balance water hyacinth eradication and its role in water purification. The results will be vital in decision support systems and preparing strategic plans for sustainable water resource management, environmental protection, and pollution prevention.

Seasonal and trend variation of methane concentration over two provinces of South Africa using Sentinel-5p data

South Africa faces the urgency to comprehensively understand and manage its methane (CH4) emissions. The primary aim of this study is to compare CH4 concentrations between Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga regions dominated by cattle farming and coal mining industries, respectively. CH4 concentration trends were analyzed for the period 2019 to 2023 using satellite data. Trend analysis revealed significant increasing trends in CH4 concentrations in both provinces, supported by Mann–Kendall tests that rejected the null hypothesis of no trend (Eastern Cape: p-value = 8.9018e−08 and Mpumalanga: p-value = 2.4650e−10). The Eastern Cape, a leading cattle farming province, exhibited cyclical patterns and increasing CH4 concentrations, while Mpumalanga, a major coal mining province, displayed similar increasing trends with sharper concentration points. The results show seasonal variations in CH4 concentrations in the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga provinces. High CH4 concentrations are observed in the northwestern region during the December-January–February (DJF) season, while lower concentrations are observed in the March–April-May (MAM) and June-July–August (JJA) seasons in the Eastern Cape province. In the Mpumalanga province, there is a dominance of high CH4 concentrations in southwestern regions and moderately low concentrations in the northeastern regions, observed consistently across all seasons. The study also showed an increasing CH4 concentration trend from 2019 to 2023 for both provinces. The study highlights the urgent need to address CH4 emissions from both cattle farming and coal mining activities to mitigate environmental impacts and promote sustainable development. Utilizing geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing technologies, policymakers and stakeholders can identify and address the sources of CH4 emissions more effectively, thereby contributing to environmental conservation and sustainable resource management.

Variations in the Adoption and Use of Different Family Planning Methods and Implications: Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Study in Nigeria

Despite concerted efforts by all stakeholders to increase acceptability and access to modern family planning (FP) methods, the adoption and usage of family planning methods have remained low, particularly in developing countries which place stringent conditions on achieving SDGs. Therefore, there is the need to understand variations in the adoption and use of FP and their implications to speed-up interventions in the right direction. The study used cross-sectional data collected between June and August 2022 in 2,817 households with 6,641 males and females of reproductive age successfully interviewed. Univariate, bivariate, and binary multivariate logistic regression model were used to model traditional and modern FP usage. Awareness was shown to be approximately two-thirds (62.8%) among respondents with main source of information being radio. Major methods of awareness are condom and pills. In terms of significant others’ support enjoyed, 43.5%, 38.5% and 39.5% enjoyed their mother, mother-in-law, and community support, respectively. Religion, region and parent’s parity were significant predictors of traditional method usage. Living in the North-Western region, increase in education, being gainfully employed, increase in years of marriage and exposure to media increase the use of modern methods of FP, whereas living in the rural areas (AOR = 0.76; CI = 0.58-1.00) and partner FP approval (AOR = 0.64; CI = 0.48-0.85) significantly reduce usage. Diverse variations have been identified in the adoption and usage of FP. To improve utilisation, appropriate education and accurate information through radio and mass media must be provided in rural areas and regions where FP usage is low.

Gravity Modelling Insights into Crustal Structure: Moho Depth and Subsurface Structures in Central Sulawesi

Abstract The present study examines the underlying structures and Moho depth’s geological implications in Central Sulawesi. Comprehending the underlying features of this area is essential for evaluating seismic risks and geological mechanisms. From the World Gravity Map 2012 (WGM 2012), we used a 2D radially-averaged power spectrum analysis of Bouguer gravity anomalies. The Moho depth is around 31 km in the northwest and northeast, with significant fluctuations in the middle and eastern regions. Although the northeastern and northwestern regions have similar depths, the center region has a lower Moho depth. On the other hand, the Palu-Koro Fault limit is marked by the eastern area, which corresponds to the Matano Fault, mirroring the center region. Furthermore, substantial orogenesis inside the Eastern Tokorondo Complex is suggested by Moho depth thinning, especially in the central, eastern, and southern portions. Our research emphasizes Central Sulawesi’s complicated geological structures, marked by variable Moho depth and underlying formations. With implications for earthquake risk assessment and hazard reduction, these insights advance our knowledge of the region’s geological processes.

Analysis of interhospital emergency referrals despite safety concerns on the roads: Emergency referrals in Northwest Syria intraregional borders

Objectives This study aims to assess emergency patient referrals between hospitals in the northwestern region of Syria. In this way, determining the patient profiles referred in the region can help shed light on the reasons for avoidable referrals, reduce referrals, and reduce the risks associated with referrals. Methods This retrospective study investigated the patients who were referred to AAA Hospital, BBB Hospital, and CCC Hospital and from these facilities within the borders of the northwestern region of Syria between 01/01/2020-01/01/2021. Referral records of patients transferred between hospitals and ambulance stations were searched in files and computer records. Because there was no automation system in the healthcare facilities involved in the study, data were recorded manually on the data collection form and processed for statistical analysis. Statistical analyzes of the study were performed as descriptive statistics of variables are reported as mean∓standard deviation, median (min-max), and n(%). Statistical analyzes of categorical variables were performed using the chi-square test and Fisher Freeman Halton Exact test. Results The mean age of the patients of 899 patients included in the study was 33.68∓26.80 years, 530(59.0%) were male and 369(41.0%) were female. 27.3% of patients were trauma patients and of both sexes. Male trauma patients were approximately 2.5 times more common than female trauma patients. Among pediatric referrals, trauma was present in one out of every three patients. Patients were most frequently referred in February, March, and June and least frequently in January (p &lt; 0.05). It was found that the need for adult, newborn, and pediatric intensive care, the need for medical material and equipment, the need for further examination/treatment, followed by the need for treatment under the supervision neurosurgeon, obstetric and gynecologist, cardiology specialist, or pediatrician. It was also noted that referrals for COVID -19 (SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus Disease 2019) service needs due to the impact of the COVID -19 outbreak during the study period were among the most common reasons. COVID -19, falls, respiratory distress, traffic accidents, and acute MI were the most common diagnoses in all referred age groups. Conclusion In northwestern Syria, emergency patients are most often referred from one hospital to another because they require all types of intensive care units, medical materials and equipment, advanced diagnostic treatment, and specialists in neurosurgery, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, and pediatrics. Increasing hospital capacity and qualifications of hospitals within the humanitarian response and increasing the number of specialists, may be considered to reduce inter-hospital referrals of emergency patients.

First report of Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae causing canker and stem blight of blueberries in Morocco

AbstractBlueberry (Vaccinium spp.) has been extensively planted in Morocco due to its nutritional value and economic importance. Botryosphaeria canker or stem blight of blueberry has emerged as one of the most destructive diseases affecting global production of this crop. This disease causes wood symptoms such as necrotic lesions, internal wood discoloration, and stem blight. Similar symptoms were found on blueberry farms in the Northwestern region of Morocco. Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae was isolated from the diseased tissues of blueberry. The identification of the causal agent was confirmed by morphological and molecular characterization through sequence analysis of two loci, the internal transcribed region (ITS) and beta‐tubulin (βtub). The pathogenicity test was performed on blueberry twigs and indicated that L. pseudotheobromae causes damage to blueberry plants. This is the first report of L. pseudotheobromae on blueberry in Morocco.

SOIL PROPERTIES AND AGRONOMIC EVALUATION OF TOMATO LINES (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM L.) IN THE NORTHWEST REGION OF GABON

The availability of tomato seeds adapted to local production conditions remains one of the major constraints for a sustainable tomato industry in Gabon. An agro-morphological characterization of ten tomato lines enabled us to assess their potential on the soil of the north-western region of Gabon. At this end, the properties of the soil were analyzed on the one hand, then, agronomic parameters of the tomato lineswere assessed on the other. Univariate and multivariate analyses of agronomic data were carried out using R software. Granulometric analysis revealed that the soil had a silty-sandy structure (29% coarse silt, 28.71% coarse sand). The mineralogical composition shows an assimilable phosphorus content of 15.51ppm and concentrations (in meq/100g) of potassium, calcium, sodium and magnesium of 0.41, 0.99, 0.32 and 0.60 respectively. For agronomic results, flowering time ranged from 26 to 36 DAS and first harvests from 70 to 84 DAS. Line L1 was the earliest and L9 the latest. For the yield, lines L4 (26.7 t/ha) and L8 (20.5 t/ha) were the most productive. The fruits with the best sizes were those of lines L2 (87.7 g) and L4 (86.6 g). Lines L1, L4, L5 and L8 were the firmest. The various diseases observed were downy mildew, spoon yellows and apical necrosis, with a moderate severity index (23,08 %) for all lines. These results show the agronomic performance of certain tomato lines on the sandy-loam soils of Gabon and for varietal improvement programs to increase tomatoes productivity in Gabon.

Assessment of the resistance of wild grasses in the northwestern region of the Russian Arctic to chloride salinization

Wild grasses are prevalent across various types of vegetation, playing a significant role in both natural ecosystems and human economic endeavors. The potential of using grasses to restore areas affected by tidal erosion and saline soils has not been fully investigated. A study was conducted to examine the impact of different levels of NaCl salinity (ranging from 20 to 200 mM) on seed germination and early growth of Agrostis capillaris L., Deschampsia cespitosa (L.) P. Beauv., Phalaris arundinacea L., and Phleum pratense L. These plants are commonly found in the Arctic region within the Belomorsky district of the Republic of Karelia. Through research, a direct connection was discovered between the germination of seeds and the growth of seedlings based on the salt levels in the root environment and the type of grass species present. In summary, all species successfully germinated at NaCl concentrations of 20–80 mM. However, germination rates decreased at 100 and 200 mM in most cases. When exposed to NaCl concentrations of 60 mM and higher, the growth of root and shoot in the grasses was slowed down to some extent (depending on the species), but not completely inhibited. Due to the resilience of wild grasses to cold temperatures, it is proposed that they could be used in the phytoremediation of Arctic areas with a salinity level of up to 100 mM (0.6 % salinity). An analysis of the data resulted in a ranking of grass species based on their salt resistance: P. pratense ˃A. capillaris ˃P. arundinacea ˃D. cespitosa.

Mapping geochemical anomalies by accounting for the uncertainty of mineralization-related elemental associations

Abstract. Geochemical mapping is a fundamental tool for elucidating the distribution and behaviour of economically significant elements and providing valuable insights into geological processes. Nevertheless, the quantification of uncertainty associated with geochemical mapping has only recently become a subject of widespread concern. This study presents a procedure that primarily consists of the determination of homogeneous clusters, the recognition of elemental associations for each cluster, and the identification of geochemical anomalies, with the aim of accounting for the uncertainty of elemental association in geochemical mapping. To illustrate and validate the procedure, a case study was conducted wherein geochemical stream-sediment samples from the northwestern region of the province of Sichuan, China, were processed to map anomalies associated with disseminated gold mineralization. The results indicate that (1) the representativeness of elemental association for the underlying geological process is an important source of uncertainty for geochemical mapping; (2) the procedure presented here is effective in addressing the uncertainty of elemental associations in geochemical mapping; and (3) the study area can be classified into two clusters, each characterized by unique elemental associations that align well with the distribution of Paleozoic and Triassic lithological units, respectively. Furthermore, the region still holds great potential for the discovery of gold deposits, particularly in areas proximal to known mineralization sites.

Genome-wide associative analysis of reproductive characteristics of a black-and-white Holstein cattle population in the conditions of the Northwestern region

In recent years, genomic assessment and the widespread introduction of modern biotechnological techniques have played a leading role in the implementation of breeding programs. For a long time, increasing milk productivity has been the main goal of breeding. This led to a significant decrease in reproduction in herds. The reproductive indicators of the uterine livestock of cattle can largely reduce the total profitability due to additional costs for manual, veterinary assistance and forced culling. Experienced groups are genotyped using the Bovinesnp50 V3 Beadchip chip are formed from the cows of black-and-white holsteinized breed. For the study, the main reproductive traits of cows were chosen: the age of the first insemination, the insemination indices in front of the first (a), the second (b), the third (c), fourth (d) lactation and the period between hotels. Analysis of associations throughout the genome was carried out using EMMAX software. 2 significant SNP and 5 conditionally significant were found. The CAMK2D candidate gene with the age at the first insemination, the TLN2, WSCD2, GAPT genes with the indicator, the number of insemination and genes WDR36, TDRD10 with the inter -suffering period was identified. Based on the studies, we assume that with age there is a change in the genetic factors affecting animal fertility. The identified candidate genes affect the mechanisms of maturation of follicles, so the growth and development of embryos. The results can be used both for the selection of animals to improve reproduction indicators, and for the search for the fundamental foundations of the formation of fertility in cattle.

PETROLOGICAL AND GEOCHEMICAL PECULIARITIES OF ALKALINE ROCKS IN THE NORTH-WESTERN REGION OF THE UKRAINIAN SHIELD

The data of chemical composition and content of trace elements in alkaline-ultrabasic rocks of the northwestern region of the Ukrainian Shield are summarized. The occurrences of alkaline rocks of this composition were discovered as results of drilling in four areas (Horodnytska, Hlumchanska, Bolyarkivska, and Hubkivska). They are presented by small hypabyssal intrusions, stem- and dike-like bodies. The rocks are represented by the jacupirangite-melteigite series, which belong to high-Mg (Mg# 0.7–0.8) varieties. Less common are alkaline and subalkaline gabbroids found in thin apophyses and veins near alkaline-ultrabasic bodies. It is assumed that these gabbroids were formed as a result of crust material contamination of the primary alkaline-ultrabasic melts. The alkaline-ultrabasic rocks of all occurrences have high Cr (233–2737 ppm) and Ni (95–1022 ppm), but are unusually depleted in incompatible elements (Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, REE, Y), with moderate Ba and Sr. Their geochemical features sharply differ from similar rocks, carbonatite and alkaline complexes known as in the Ukrainian Shield and other regions of the world. Despite the primitive composition of alkaline-ultrabasic rocks and anomalous REE depletion, their chondrite-normalized patterns have negative slopes and are similar to differentiated rocks with a prevailing of LREE (La/Yb = 6–16). The petrogenesis of such primitive and trace-element depleted alkaline-ultrabasic rocks is enigmatic. We suppose that these unusual geochemical features are the result of primary melt(s) generation from mantle source and their evolution by a similar way. For the alkaline rocks of the Horodnytska and Hlumchanska intrusions, and possibly the Hubkivska occurrence, the primary melts arose through partial melting of garnet (with amphibole?) peridotites. At the same time, the primary melt for the Bolyarkivska intrusion was generated by partial melting of spinel peridotite, probably in a shallower environment. The anomalous depletion at HFSE and REE can be considered as the result of specific conditions of partial melting of depleted mantle source at low temperature and pressure, when refractory minerals concentrating these elements (rutile, amphibole) remained in the restite, or due to early crystallization and fractionation of concentrating minerals (perovskite, apatite).

Spatiotemporal Distribution of Inscription Sites in Henan Province

This paper takes 1929 inscription sites in Henan Province as the study object and uses methods such as kernel density and nearest neighbor index to analyze their spatiotemporal distribution patterns and influencing factors. It also studies those patterns of various levels of inscription cultural relics’ protection units and content. All of these will help our understanding of the development process and characteristics of Central Plains art and provide reference for the protection and development of inscriptions in Henan in the future. The study indicates the following: (1) The spatial distribution of inscription sites is relatively uneven and the clustering is obvious, being mainly concentrated in the northern and northwestern regions of Henan, showing the characteristics of “one belt and four clusters” as a whole. The density is high in the north and low in the south, gradually decreasing from north to south. (2) In terms of time, the number of these inscription sites shows a fluctuating trend of first a slight increase and then a decrease with a significant increase and then a decrease. The center of the sites migrates from southwest to northeast over time. (3) These inscriptions can be divided into five primary themes and further subdivided into 16 secondary themes in terms of content. The main type is chronicle. (4) Inscriptions in Henan are mainly influenced by five major factors: topography, climate, economy and transportation, politics and society, culture and religion.

Spatial and temporal distribution characteristics and geographic contexts of civilized villages in China.

Rural civilization is the soul of rural revitalization strategies. As a booster of rural civilization, the civilized village is an indispensable force to promote the modernization of rural areas, in the meanwhile, the study of its spatial distribution has important theoretical significance and practical value in deepening the theory of rural geography, promoting the development of rural civilization, and helping rural revitalization. Considering civilized villages as the study topic, the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics and geographic context were discussed using spatial analysis methods. The number of civilized villages in the country has shown a clear upward trend since 2005. The spatial distribution pattern of civilized villages in China shows unbalanced patterns with a higher concentration in the east and south. Civilized villages in China present significant patterns of clustering with an increasing degree of spatial clustering, showing a multi-core spatial distribution pattern. Civilized villages in China demonstrate clear spatiotemporal clustering characteristics. A spatiotemporal hot spot cluster formed in the northwestern region from 2005 to 2011, and a spatiotemporal cold spot cluster formed in the southeastern region from 2005 to 2008. The spatial distribution of civilized villages in China has obvious geographical differentiation laws, and factors such as topography, climate, economy, transportation, and policy significantly affect their spatial distribution.

Seismo-stratigraphic and morpho-bathymetric analysis revealing recent fluid-rising phenomena on the Adventure Plateau (northwestern Sicily Channel)

The northwestern region of the Sicily Channel hosts a great number of morphological highs, the widest of which is the Adventure Plateau that is part of the Sicilian Maghrebian Fold and Thrust Belt system, formed since the Neogene. The Adventure Plateau was shaped in the Early Pliocene by an extensional phase that produced high-angle normal faults mostly WNW-ESE to N-S oriented. Through these faults, magmatic fluids ascended and produced widespread volcanic manifestations often associated to fluid flow processes. The interpretation of multibeam echosounder, seismic reflection (sparker, airgun) and well-log data allow us to identify several features related to the presence of fluids in the study area. The morpho-structural analysis showed a NW–SE oriented fault system and a string of pockmarks that follow the same trend. A detailed well-log analysis confirmed the presence of oil traces, at a depth of ~ 250 m, and gas (i.e., CO2) at a depth of ~ 450 m. The seismo-stratigraphic analysis highlighted seismic signals located below the pockmarks, (e.g. seismic chimneys, bright spots) which suggest the presence of fluids that would rise to a few meters’ depth. Based on the observations, two sources and two corresponding rising mechanisms have been identified. Morphometric analysis of pockmarks has been performed to delineate their possible interaction with the bottom currents. A fluids pathway model has been reconstructed, revealing the source of fluids emissions at depth in the Adventure Plateau, and providing new insights into the identification of fluid leakage pathways.

Unveiling Factors Influencing Teacher Professional Alienation: A Qualitative Case Study

The purpose of this study is to unveil the factors that influence teacher professional alienation. The study included a group of 20 teachers and school administrators employed in a province located in the northwestern region of Türkiye. This qualitative case study involved this cohort working across various educational levels, including kindergartens, primary, secondary, and high schools. A semi-structured interview form was used to collect data. Content analysis was employed for data analysis. Results revealed four main factors that influence teacher professional alienation: (1) problems between district/school administration and teachers, (2) legislation, (3) students, and (4) parents. We discuss our results in line with the accumulated research findings and provide some implications for policy and practice.

Predictors of insecticide-treated bed nets use among pregnant women in Sierra Leone: evidence from the 2019 Sierra Leone Demographic Health Survey

BackgroundMalaria remains a significant public health threat in Sierra Leone, particularly for pregnant women and their unborn children. Infection during pregnancy can lead to severe consequences, including maternal anaemia, low birth weight, premature birth, and even death. Therefore, preventing malaria during pregnancy is crucial for improving maternal and child health outcomes. This study investigated the predictors of insecticide-treated bed net (ITN) use among pregnant women in Sierra Leone.MethodsThe study analysed the 2019 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey data (SLDHS). The study comprised a total of 900 pregnant women aged 15–49 years, representing the nationally representative sample. A multivariable binary regression analysis was used to explore the predictors of ITN use. The regression results were presented using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsThe study found that the prevalence of ITN use among pregnant women was 64.2 [60.4, 67.9] in Sierra Leone. Pregnant women who were married [aOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.32, 3.07] had higher odds of bed net use than those who were unmarried. Pregnant women with five or more children [aOR = 1.69, 95% CI 1.01, 2.84] had higher odds of mosquito bed net use than those with four and below children. Pregnant women living in the Northern, Northwestern, Southern and Western regions all had lower odds of bed net use than those in the Eastern region, with the lowest odds among those living in the western region [aOR = 0.19, 95% CI 0.09, 0.40]. Pregnant women who were Muslims [aOR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.41, 0.95] had lower odds of mosquito bed net use than Christians. Pregnant women with female household heads [aOR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.44, 0.95] had lower odds of mosquito bed net use than those with male household heads.ConclusionITN use among pregnant women in Sierra Leone remains suboptimal. Marital status, parity, sex of household head, region and religion were associated with bed net use. The government and policymakers in Sierra Leone should integrate ITN education and distribution into prenatal care services, emphasizing the benefits for both mother and baby—partnering with healthcare providers to raise awareness and encourage consistent use. Involve local leaders, religious figures, and mothers' groups to promote the benefits of ITN during pregnancy. Educate husbands and partners on the importance of ITN use during pregnancy and encourage their support in its consistent use.

Impacts of conservation agriculture on crop yield and soil carbon sequestration: a meta-analysis in the Indian subcontinent.

In the quest of achieving sustainable crop productivity, improved soil health, and increased carbon (C) sequestration in the soil, conservation agriculture (CA) is increasingly being promoted and adopted in the Indian subcontinent. However, because some researchers from different regions of the world have reported reduced crop yield under CA relative to agriculture based on conventional tillage (CT), a meta-analysis has been conducted based on published research from India to evaluate the effects of CA on the yield of crops, accumulation of soil organic C as an index of soil health, and C sequestration in the soil in different regions and soil textural groups in the country. The meta-analysis is based on 544 paired observations under CA and CT from 35 publications from India was carried out using Meta Win 2.1 software. The results showed an overall significant (p < 0.05) reduction of 1.15% crop yield under CA compared to CT. Yearwise data showed a reduction of yields under CA from 2009 to 2016, but an increase from 2017 to 2020. Yield reduction was observed in the eastern, north-eastern, and southern regions of India but in western, northern, and north-western regions of the country, an increase was observed under CA rather than CT. Sandy loam and clayey soils exhibited higher crop yield under CA than under CT. Compared to CT, soil organic C content and soil C sequestration under CA increased by 8.9% and 7.3%, respectively. Also, in all the regions and soil textural groups both soil organic C accumulation and soil C sequestration were higher under CA than under CT. Factors such as rainfall, soil depth, available nitrogen (N), and total N significantly influenced the extent of yield increase/decrease and soil organic C accumulation under CA. Overall, results of the meta-analysis suggest that the promotion of CA in India will have to be location-specific taking into consideration the crops, soil attributes, and climatic conditions.