Soft set theory has emerged as a comprehensive mathematical apparatus for the systematic representation and analysis of uncertainty, particularly in the environments governed by parametric variability. At the heart of this theoretical construct lie soft set operations and products, which collectively furnish powerful tools for the formulation and resolution of complex problems characterized by parameter-driven indeterminacy. The present work initiates with a meticulous and formal investigation of the symmetric difference operation of soft sets. It is rigorously established that the collection of the soft sets with a fixed parameter set, under this binary operation, forms an abelian group, thereby endowing the structure with foundational algebraic coherence. Subsequently, we introduce an original product, termed the soft symmetric difference–intersection product, defined on soft sets whose associated parameter sets are endowed with a group structure. A thorough axiomatic and structural investigation of this product is undertaken, with particular emphasis on its compatibility with existing notions of soft subsethood and equality. It is further demonstrated that the algebraic structure comprising the set of soft sets with a fixed parameter set, together with the symmetric difference of soft sets and the proposed product, satisfies the axiomatic requirements of both a ring and a hemiring. The theoretical implications of these findings are twofold: on the one hand, they significantly advance the algebraic underpinnings of soft set theory; on the other, they open new vistas for the formulation of a nascent soft group theory, potentially parallel to its classical counterpart. Given that the formal development of soft algebraic frameworks is intrinsically contingent upon rigorously defined operations and product constructions, the present study constitutes a substantial and foundational contribution to the algebraic maturation of soft set theory.
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) by applying various centrality measures to identify key nodes within the network. The research focuses on a WSN comprising 100 nodes, modeled using the Watts-Strogatz model. This model effectively captures the network's structural properties, balancing randomness and regularity, which is crucial for understanding real-world WSNs. Degree centrality, betweenness centrality, closeness centrality, eigenvector centrality, Katz centrality, subgraph centrality, and PageRank are utilized to assess individual nodes' relative importance and influence. The analysis highlights the structural significance of specific nodes, particularly those with high centrality scores, which are crucial in optimizing network performance, enhancing resilience, and improving resource management. The results underscore the utility of centrality measures and the Watts-Strogatz model in understanding network dynamics and designing strategies for network optimization, with Node 99 emerging as consistently central across all metrics. These findings have important implications for network management, particularly in applications requiring robust communication and efficient data processing.
Being familiar with intuitionistic set theory and with the introduction of neutrosophic theory as a generalization of fuzzy set theory and Atanassov’s (IFS) theory, it is well known that there are numerous applications of intuitionistic, fuzzy, and neutrosophic sets in many fields such as topology, graph theory, image processing, algebra, medicine, etc. As a combination of the concept of Gem set and turing points with neutrosophic crisp sets, different sets and points, namely neutrosophic crisp Gem sets and neutrosophic turing points, are introduced and studied. In the same fashion, the concept of blending a Gem set with an intuitionistic set is introduced in this article in order to develop more concepts and theories on intuitionistic topological spaces. The main intention of this research article is to introduce the new types of intuitionistic sets and limit points in intuitionistic topological space, namely, intuitionistic Gem sets and intuitionistic turing points, respectively. In detail, the characteristics of intuitionistic Gem sets and a few counterexamples are discussed. As a result, the properties of the intutionistic Gem set and the relation between the mappings on intutionistic Gem sets are analysed.
The current research work focuses on the theoretical investigation of the coexistence of superconductivity and antiferromagnetic spin density wave (SDW) in a two-band model for the iron-based superconductor. In this study, we considered the electron and hole intra-band interactions, the inter-band and magnetic interactions between the two bands. By employing a system Hamiltonian in a two-band model for the given superconductor and by using the double time temperature dependent Green’s function formalism at the Bardeen-Cooper Schrieffer (BCS) mean field approximation (MFA) level, we obtained mathematical expressions for the dependence of superconducting transition temperature () on antiferromagnetic SDW order parameter () in the electron and hole intra-band interactions and the inter-band interaction for the superconductor. Similarly, we have obtained an expression for the dependence of antiferromagnetic SDW transition temperature () on antiferromagnetic SDW order parameter () for. By using experimental values and considering some plausible approximations of the parameters in the obtained expressions, phase diagrams of versus in the electron and hole intra-band interactions and the inter-band interaction are plotted for the superconductor. Similarly, a phase diagram of versus is plotted for the same superconductor. By merging the two-phase diagrams, we have demonstrated the possible coexistence of superconductivity and antiferromagnetic SDW in the electron and hole intra-band interactions and the inter-band interaction. Furthermore, we have investigated the dependence of on temperature in the pure antiferromagnetic SDW region, and the phase diagram is plotted for the variation of with temperature for the superconductor. Our findings are in agreement with previous experimental findings.
Soil acidity is a major constraint to agricultural productivity in Northwest Ethiopia, where acidic soils limit nutrient availability and reduce crop yields. Liming, a widely adopted practice to neutralize soil acidity, improves soil pH and alters physicochemical properties such as nutrient solubility and organic matter dynamics. These changes influence microbial communities that are central to nutrient cycling, soil fertility, and ecosystem health. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of liming on microbial diversity, distribution, and composition in the Debark area of the North Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Two farmland sites, Miligebsa and Yekrar, were selected for a cross-sectional study. Five soil samples (200 g each) were randomly collected from 12 m × 12 m plots before and after liming, composited into 1 kg samples, and serially diluted for culturing. Bacteria were isolated on nutrient agar with cycloheximide, and fungi on PDA with chloramphenicol and streptomycin. Bacterial isolates were identified using microscopy, colony morphology, and biochemical tests. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Liming significantly increased soil pH from ~5.7 to ~7.4, while moisture content remained stable. Bacterial counts rose significantly (p < 0.05) at both sites, from ~90 to ~136 CFU/mL, whereas fungal counts declined (p < 0.05), from 15.70 to 4.10 CFU/mL at Yekrar and from 12.10 to 6.00 CFU/mL at Miligebsa. Pseudomonas spp. dominated before liming but was replaced by Bacillus spp. afterwards, while Aspergillus spp. remained the dominant fungi, though its abundance decreased. Statistical analyses confirmed significant shifts in microbial communities, with a transition from fungal to bacterial dominance. Liming proved to be an effective soil reclamation strategy, raising pH, enhancing bacterial abundance, reducing fungal populations, and improving nutrient cycling and soil fertility. These findings highlight soil pH as a key regulator of microbial structure and demonstrate liming’s role as a low-cost, practical approach for restoring degraded acidic soils and supporting sustainable agriculture in smallholder systems of Northwest Ethiopia. Future research should monitor long-term impacts of liming, optimize application strategies, and integrate liming with complementary soil management practices. Functional and crop-specific analyses, socioeconomic assessments, regional expansion, and stronger extension-policy linkages are essential to advance sustainable soil management and ensure widespread adoption among smallholder farmers.
Plants contain several bioactive compounds distributed in all their organs, such as leaves, flowers, bark, seeds, and roots, among others. The gel found in Aloe species primarily consists of water, which makes up approximately 98% of its composition. The gel also contains several classes of both primary and secondary metabolites, including polysaccharides, glycoproteins, phenolic anthraquinones, flavonoids, enzymes, minerals, amino acids, sterols, saponins, and vitamins. The distribution and concentration of these metabolites vary among the different Aloe species. Aloe elegans Todaro is one of the Aloe species that are commonly found in Ethiopia. The plant grows in areas with rocky or limestone landscapes, mainly in regions covered by evergreen bushland or wooded grasslands. This preliminary study aimed to investigate the proximate composition and perform phytochemical screening on the gels of this rarely distributed plant, along with isolating an anthraquinone molecule for the first time. The results showed that the gel had a moisture content of 98.12 ± 0.06%, ash content of 0.16 ± 0.02%, fat content of 0.03 ± 0.02%, protein content of 0.11 ± 0.01%, carbohydrate content of 0.60 ± 0.03%, and energy content of 13.18 kcal. Furthermore, a phytochemical screening analysis revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, anthraquinones, and terpenoids, indicating the distribution of several classes of secondary metabolites. Aloin, an anthraquinone compound, was isolated from the crude gel extract using column chromatography assisted by thin-layer chromatography analysis. Structural identification of this compound was achieved by analyzing 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, DEPT, and IR data, as well as by comparing the results with literature and chemical profiling databases. To summarize, the results of this study highlight the phytochemical richness and nutritional potential of A. elegans, underscoring its value as a source of pharmacologically relevant compounds and laying a strong foundation for further research. Therefore, to fully understand the biomedical and nutraceutical potential of the plant, future investigations should focus on comprehensive metabolite profiling, bioactivity-guided fractionation, and evaluation of its therapeutic properties.
Radon gas, the second leading cause of lung cancer, threatens communities through soil exhalation. This study evaluates public health risks from Radium and Radon in Wukro soils using LR-115 Type II detectors. Twelve soil samples (200 μm particle size) were analyzed over four months, revealing Radium levels of 0.33–1.47 Bq/kg (mean: 0.87Bq/kg). Dose assessments show that the mean value of 1.55 mSv/y (outdoor) and 7.40 mSv/y (indoor), which is below the global limits but relevant for local housing policies. Clay soils emitted 2.1× more radon than sandy soils, suggesting construction material guidelines should prioritize low-clay content. With maximum values at <0.4% of safety thresholds, Wukro’s immediate risk is low, but we propose: routine monitoring of high-clay areas, public awareness campaigns, and radon-resistant construction codes for Tigray. This work provides a baseline for Ethiopian environmental health planning.
This paper investigates operator algebras arising from the left regular representations of the multiplicative semigroup of natural numbers and the integer group. It is shown that the Banach algebra generated by it contains neither non-trivial projections nor compact operators. Additionally, it is proven that the -algebra, generated by a family of bounded operators in, does not contain any non-zero compact operators. The study further examines the von Neumann algebras generated by in. Moreover, it is shown that the, where is the C∗-algebra generated by in and represents the space of continuous functions on the unit circle. The results connect naturally with number theory through arithmetic semigroup actions and with quantum mechanics as models for noncommutative observables and symmetries. These links suggest that the structural rigidity established in this work may have implications for both arithmetic and quantum spectral analysis.
Photocatalytic wastewater treatment using suitable semiconductor nanomaterials as photocatalysts is currently a promising alternative for addressing urgent environmental issues related to various persistent pollutants, such as dyes and pesticides. To this end, ZnO, Al-modified ZnO and ZnO/PVA nanoscale photocatalysts were synthesized using co-precipitation methods. UV-Vis, XRD, SEM and FTIR methods were then used to characterize these nanomaterials. Additionally, the photocatalysts' catalytic activity was determined by evaluating their ability to remove methyl orange (MO) dye from an aqueous medium using sunlight. To enhance the efficiency of the photocatalytic process, ZnO was doped with aluminum, after which a composite was formed with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). This process is responsible for both narrowing the band gap and hindering the recombination of charge carriers, thereby improving the activity of the ZnO nanocomposite when exposed to sunlight. The extent of MO removal was as follows: (Al- modified ZnO /PVA) > (Al-modified ZnO) > (ZnO/PVA) > (pure ZnO). The results showed that doping ZnO with aluminum and combining it with PVA enhanced the catalytic activity. Using Al- modified ZnO /PVA as a catalyst achieved 83.7% MO removal in 90 minutes. The Al- modified ZnO composite with PVA exhibited a synergistic effect. This could inform strategies for the removal of organic dyes. Furthermore, these results suggest that doping is an alternative mechanism for enhancing the removal of organic dyes, such as MO, under sunlight, thereby helping to green the environment.
This study investigates the ionospheric and geomagnetic response to Coronal Mass Ejection forcing by analyzing Total Electron Content (TEC) distributions, the relationship between the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) Bz component and the solar-wind convective electric field (Ey), and the temporal evolution of key geospace parameters during disturbed periods. TEC data derived from GNSS-based Global Ionospheric Maps were used to examine spatial variations and storm-time anomalies in ionospheric electron density. Concurrent solar-wind and IMF measurements obtained from the OMNI dataset were used to compute Ey and assess its correlation with IMF-Bz through statistical and scatter-plot analyses. Time-series plots of Dst, IMF-Bz, solar-wind speed, density, and Ey were constructed to identify the coupling between solar-wind drivers and geomagnetic activity. The results demonstrate that strong southward IMF-Bz enhances Ey, which in turn intensifies geomagnetic disturbances indicated by Dst reductions. Corresponding TEC enhancements and depletions reveal significant restructuring of the ionosphere during storm main and recovery phases. This integrated approach provides improved understanding of solar-wind–magnetosphere–ionosphere coupling and the dynamic behavior of ionospheric TEC under varying geospace conditions. The enhancements and disturbances in the solar wind field due to combined co-rotating interaction region (CIR) and CH HSS influences likely resulted in isolated periods of G1 storm levels late on 23 March and isolated G4 storm levels on 24 March. The Dst index value showed a sudden commencement with a sudden increase to 24nT and then decreased continuously to -163nT on March 24, 2023, which is the largest storm so far in solar cycle 25. The IMF-Bz developed a prolonged and significant southward component reaching a minimum of about -20 nT at 03:00 UT, which corresponds to the peak of the minimum Dst index of -163 nT. Solar wind pressure shows a jump from 1.83 nPa on March 22, 2023, to 14.79 nPa on March 23, 2023. Rapid increases in solar wind dynamic pressure compress the Earth’s magnetosphere and rapidly restructure the electrodynamics within. The enhancement of TEC towards the southern hemisphere high latitude was observed. On March 24, 2023, an enhanced spatial distribution of TEC coverage is over the globe. These all evidences might be the result of the geomagnetic storms.
The photovoltaic devices had gone through many phases or stages of modification since their evolution in 1839. From mundane crystalline silicon (first generation) to Graphene and its derivatives (fourth generation), the photovoltaic devices are of great importance for generating electricity, storage devices, and several other applications. The reduction in the cost of production of electricity via solar cells (photovoltaic) has been greatly impacting the global economy to the extent that countries like the US are projected to generate 58% of their total electric generation by 2024 from solar energy. With an increase in global energy consumption, solar energy remains the only energy source that could power the globe because the solar energy absorbed by the earth from the sun is the same as the energy from all the non-renewable energy sources (coal, oil, natural gas, and uranium) as reported by the World Counts 2024. Hence, PV has a significant potential to play a prominent part in all significant future energy problems. In fact, the photovoltaic devices help in reducing unemployment by creating jobs, trade balance between countries, and easing the individual cost of living, thereby reducing the poverty rate in countries of the world. In conclusion, the cost of solar power reduces every year, and it might be cheaper than fossil fuels, depending on the sun and weather conditions at the site of installation. Currently, solar energy is the cheapest in the United States, with generation costing about 0.70 USD per watt. In this review paper, the impact of photovoltaic (PV) devices (solar energy) on the global economy is examined, which objectively enlightens on the economic benefits and job creation opportunities, by analyzing reports from journals and other publications from international energy agencies.
The subject matters are justified based on the challenges of minimising energy and CO2 utilisation in transportation and the contribution of electric vehicles to sustainable development. This work aims to establish the current trends in providing energy efficiency in electric vehicles through the use of new technologies in their design. The study employs theoretical approaches to analysing literature, comparing prior research findings, and assessing the most recent technological advancements in electric transportation. These study findings demonstrate that when new solar and wind energy sources are incorporated within the architecture of electric vehicle charging stations, the grid load and CO2 emissions are minimised. Implementing kinetic energy recovery systems and smart grids to enhance energy consumption makes running electric vehicles efficient. Blockchain technologies and innovative vehicle management systems, such as V2G, facilitate efficient charging and seamless integration of electric vehicles into energy systems, significantly improving power grid stability. The practical significance of these results lies in the possibility of using these technologies to develop infrastructure for electric vehicles, which will help reduce emissions and increase the environmental sustainability of the transport system.
Childbearing indices (CIs), i.e., age at first birth, age at last birth, the reproductive life span, and other related measures, are significant in understanding the fertility transition of a population. When direct estimates are missing, it is common practice in demography/ population studies to use indirect techniques to estimate the indicators. In this paper, an attempt has been made to estimate childbearing indices from only information on TFR, applying Horne et al. (1990) procedure and model fertility table (MFT) earlier constructed for Ethiopia by the researchers. Again, in this paper, fertility transition in Ethiopia and its regions was examined using estimated childbearing indices by inputting TFR data from DHS surveys for Ethiopia and its regions during 2000-2016. It was found that the application of MFT and Horne et al. (1990) procedure for estimating childbearing indices was found to be useful, and the derived CIs indices were found to be applicable in studying fertility transition. Childbearing transition was observed in most parts of Ethiopia during the 2000-2016 periods. Based on our findings, we recommend that policymakers strengthen family planning and reproductive health services, invest in women's education and employment opportunities, and design special interventions for parts of the country lagging in fertility transition.
The textile and garment industry has a long history of being a catalyst for product and technological innovations, and it is a prioritized sector in Ethiopia. This study employs a Sequential Mixed-Methods design, incorporating quantitative data analysis using R4.4.0 software and qualitative data analysis through Thematic coding. This integrative approach enables triangulation and enriches findings. The objective of this study is to examine the extent to which formal Vocational Skills Development (VSD) programs contribute to Company Growth and Transformation in Ethiopia's Textile and Garment industries. Key findings indicate that total pre-employment VSD programs are strongly and positively associated with significant advancements in product and technological innovations within the Ethiopian textile and garment industries. Specifically, pre-employment VSD programs show a positive correlation with export-oriented industries, contributing to overall industrial growth and transformation. Furthermore, in-employment VSD programs significantly enhance the likelihood of achieving higher sales volume growth. Based on the results, the study recommends that companies should prioritize investing in pre-employment and in-employment VSD programs for company growth and transformation. Government initiatives are crucial in creating Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) industry linkage policies and encouraging companies to invest in VSD programs to produce export-quality products.
Kifilideen's Geometric Matrix Progression Sequence of infinite and finite terms generates multiplication of triindexes or bi-indexes simultaneous equations of its components' migration level value, migration step value, and first term. There is a need to develop a simple, short, effective, and standardized rule or model to tackle such a problem. This study develops Kifilideen's Rule to solve the multiplication of bi-indexes, tri-indexes, and-indices simultaneous equations of two variables, three variables, and variables respectively. Elimination method, laws of indices, and cofactor and determinant of matrix were deployed in establishing, formulating, and modeling the Kifilideen's Rule to solve multiplication of bi-indexes andtriindexes simultaneous equations of two variables and three variables, respectively. The Kifilideen's Rule was implemented in the form of a model in solving problems involving multiplication of bi-indexes and triindexes simultaneous equations of two variables and three variables, respectively. The general solution to solve the multiplication of index simultaneous equations of variables using Kifilideen's rule was inaugurated. The Kifilideen's Rule is in the form of a model to solve multiplication of bi-indexes and triindexes simultaneous equations of two variables and three variables, respectively, which was found to be effective, straightforward, reliable, interesting, easy, and intuitive to understand for students and beginners.
This pilot research aims to investigate the effects of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools on students' cognitive-metacognitive abilities. Freshman students of biology, chemistry, and physics education at a Malaysian university who enrolled via three pathways participated in the study. Students' scores on yes (1) or no (0) structured surveys (on 11 research topics), high school/pre-university GPA, and test scores (on lower-and higher-order thinking science tests) were collected and analyzed. In many of the research topics, the mean scores of the surveys were high. Data analyses were carried out using t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and correlation and regression analyses. Comparisons of mean scores were carried out based on gender, pathway to university, and major areas of study. Several cases showed no statistically significant variations, most likely due to sample size limits or a lack of variability in students' responses. However, many indicators showed that males, chemistry majors, and pathway 2 (pre-university foundation) students did better. Mean scores of many research topics on cognitive metacognitive abilities were positively correlated with mean scores of the research topics on AI use. In all the regression models of the research topics, the predictor variables did not make significant contributions (p > 0.05). Qualitative examination of the data showed that the students were able to rate their cognitive-metacognitive abilities and AI use in some meaningful ways and distinct patterns. Given their strong academic background, students' self-assessments of cognitive-metacognitive abilities and AI usage in STEM learning may reflect a reasonable level of awareness, though further qualitative validation is needed. A mean score of approximately 12 out of 25 on the topic of 'the effects of AI in hindering STEM learning' suggests neutrality or ambivalence about the negative consequences of AI while still recognizing its overall benefits, as shown by the high mean scores in the topic on 'the benefit of AI in STEM learning.' This suggests a nuanced perspective where students see AIas both a facilitator and a in their education.
180 specimens of Clarias batrachus (6.59-6.72cm and 3.10-6.96g) reared upon six experimental diets comprising 25% CP (T1), 30% CP (T2), 35% CP (T3), 40% CP (T4), 45% CP (T5), and 50% CP (T6), were used to study the concentrations (mu g/g) of twelve metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Cr, Co, Mn, Na, K, Ca, Mg, Cd and Pb) in whole carcasses with relation to body size and condition factor by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mg were found to be highest in T4 (p<0.05). Cr, Mn, Na, K, and Ca remained constant (p>0.05) among different treated groups. Cd and Pb were not quantified as their concentrations are below detection. Regression analyses represented significant correlation for Cu in T1 and T3; Co, Mn, and Na in T1; while Ca and Mg in T4, with the BW showing a positive impact on metal concentrations. Total length showed significant relationships for Cu and Na in T1, Zn in T3, and Co in T4. Condition factor represented correlations for Zn in T1, Co in T4 and T5, and for K in T1. Overall findings showed fish reared in T4 contained high nutritional values with respect to essential metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mg), as these minerals are essential to our everyday lives.
This paper aims to assess the key factors that control groundwater quality using multivariate statistical methods such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Cluster Analysis (CA) in Kombolcha town, Northern Ethiopia. For this purpose, 18 groundwater samples were collected from boreholes during the months of May and November 2017, representing the dry and wet seasons, respectively. The PCA results showed two components in the dry season and three components in the wet season. PCAs 1 to 3 explain variances of 45.32, 20.29, and 14.15%, respectively, in the wet season. Meanwhile, PCAs 1 and 2 represent 45.50 and 35.55% of the variance, respectively in the dry season. Moreover, based on the similarities in water quality characteristics, the Q-mode cluster analysis divided the water samples from the wells into three (3) and four (4) distinct homogenous clusters in the dry and wet seasons, respectively. The mean values of EC, TDS, major ions, NO3-, NO2-, PO43-,and F-follow the order: Cluster 1 > Cluster 2 > Cluster 3 in the dry season, and Cluster 1 > Cluster 2 > Cluster 3 > Cluster 4 in the wet season. A Piper diagram classified the groundwater in the area into Ca-HCO3-SO4, Ca-Na-HCO3-SO4, and Ca-Na-SO4-HCO3 water types in the dry season and Ca-HCO3-SO4 and Ca-Mg-HCO3-SO4 water types in the wet season, indicating the dominant hydrochemical facies. In conclusion, the PCA and CA results revealed that the groundwater quality in the research area is predominantly controlled by anthropogenic processes (liquid wastes released from industries and municipal sewage), with a secondary contribution from geogenic sources.
Analysis of digestive enzyme concentration has key importance in understanding and obtaining valuable information about the digestive physiology of fish. In the present study, we evaluated and compared the amylase, lipase, and protease concentrations relative to gut morphometric parameters: relative gut length (RGL), relative gut mass (RGM), and condition factor in the snakehead Channa marulius. A total of 60 specimens of Channa marulius were collected from Head Marala, River Chenab. Samples were weighed to get the body weight and the total length. Then excised each specimen and removed its complete gut and measured the total gut length and weight. The concentration of digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase and protease) was determined. The protease concentration (0.946***), lipase (0.960***), and amylase (0.974***) were observed to be highly significantly (P<0.001) correlated with an increase in gut length in both pre-adult and adult groups. The log weight with log gut length (0.996***), (0.975***), lipase (0.979***), and amylase (0.982***) were observed to be highly significantly (P<0.001) correlated with an increase in gut length in both pre-adult and adult groups. Gut length (GL) versus condition factor relative to the concentration of digestive enzyme indicated a significant correlation (P<0.05) and condition factor relative to amylase concentration was observed highly significant (P<0.01; r=0.783) in the Pre-adult group while in adult-group condition factor regression parameters observed highly significant (P<0.05) relative to gut length and with the concentration of protease, lipase, and amylase. Information from the present study provides valuable data to understand the digestive physiology of preadult and adult groups of wild carnivore fishes.
In many West African countries, a decoction of the trunk bark of Prosopis africana is used to heal wounds and fight against cancer. Leaves are also used to treat headaches and toothaches, as well as several other ailments. This was a cross-sectional study in which questionnaires were administered to 633 indigenous residents of 10 villages located in the Western Region of The Gambia. This study aims to identify ethnobotanical knowledge on the utilizations, threats, risks, and local management methods of Prosopis africana to provide data for its sustainable domestication. The relative frequency of citation was used to investigate ethnobotanical data. Descriptive statistics were also used to determine local perceptions of the species’ status, risk factors, and tactics used for its conservation. Chi-square and generalized linear models were applied to check the dependence between ethnic groups and variables. Three organs, namely leaves, stems, and roots are widely used for many purposes. In total, 4 main use forms were reported by local people for all organs, with the stem having a higher index value of useful organs (91%). The results of the generalized linear model performed on the perception of the status of Prosopis africana showed that there was a significant relationship between the Mandinkas’ (CL = -0.296–1.907 and p = 0.007) and the Jolas’ (CL = -0.032–1.656 and p =0.042). Local strategies for the species conservation of Prosopis africana in protected areas among the ethnic groups show that those living in Kombo South (X2 = 3.802, p = 0.010) and those from Kombo Central (X2 = 27.511, p = <0.001) were the only variables that significantly influenced the respondent’s knowledge on where the species should be grown. This study reveals the importance of Prosopis africana while also highlighting essential aspects to consider to successfully engage in its sustainable conservation.
