Proceedings

3 pages, 124 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

How Can Public Administration Foster Political Participation Among Youths

by Syrmoula Tzima

Proceedings 2024, 111(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2024111027 - 6 Jun 2025

This abstract discusses the crucial role of public administrations in fostering political participation among youths, emphasizing strategies to actively engage young individuals in democratic processes. Education programs, digital platforms, inclusion in policy-making, and leadership training are highlighted as effective methods to increase political [...] Read more.

This abstract discusses the crucial role of public administrations in fostering political participation among youths, emphasizing strategies to actively engage young individuals in democratic processes. Education programs, digital platforms, inclusion in policy-making, and leadership training are highlighted as effective methods to increase political engagement among youths. The paper argues that integrating these strategies can enhance democratic resilience and responsiveness to governance. It also stresses the importance of adapting communication methods to youth preferences and supporting youth organizations to facilitate greater involvement in politics. By employing these approaches, public administrations can empower young people to become informed, active participants in their communities and beyond. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 1st International Conference on Public Administration 2024)

1 pages, 129 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Giuseppe Carbone

Proceedings 2024, 107(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2024107052 - 30 May 2025

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Proceedings, the Volume Editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the Volume Editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Biomimetics)

7 pages, 209 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Stability of Cotinus coggygria Scop. Extract-Loaded Liposomes: The Impact of Storage on Physical and Antioxidant Properties

by Aleksandra A. Jovanović, Amjed Karkad, Andrea Pirković, Dragana Dekanski, Diana Lupulović, Miroslav Novaković and Aleksandar Marinković

Proceedings 2025, 119(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025119004 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

The stability of Cotinus coggygria extract-loaded liposomes (non-treated and UV-irradiated) was determined after 60 days through an investigation of the impact of storage on liposomal physical and antioxidant properties. The liposome size varied in a narrow range for 60 days; PDI was 0.273–0.313 [...] Read more.

The stability of Cotinus coggygria extract-loaded liposomes (non-treated and UV-irradiated) was determined after 60 days through an investigation of the impact of storage on liposomal physical and antioxidant properties. The liposome size varied in a narrow range for 60 days; PDI was 0.273–0.313 (non-treated) and 0.829–0.911 (UV-irradiated). The zeta potential ranged from −28.2 to −29.6 mV (non-treated) and from −21.5 to −22.0 mV (UV-irradiated). The obtained liposomes with the extract neutralized 81.9% of free DPPH radicals before UV irradiation and 80.9% after irradiation. In the ABTS assay, UV irradiation also significantly reduced the antioxidant capacity, from 12.02 to 10.55 µmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/mL. The ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activity of the UV-irradiated liposomes significantly decreased after the 60-day storage (8.93 µmol TE/mL and 75.4%, respectively), whereas in the non-treated sample, the mentioned drop in antioxidant capacity was not noticed. Liposomal formulations of C. coggygria extract can exhibit significant potential for further development as a functional food or dermo-cosmetic ingredient. Full article

5 pages, 3240 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Investigation of Gene Polymorphisms in FGF2 and SΤAΤ5A Genes in the Greek Red Cow Breed

by Paraskevi Eleni Tsokanta, Εfthimios Avgeris and Georgios Michailidis

Proceedings 2025, 117(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025117031 - 27 May 2025

Abstract

In the present study, we investigated the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms at the Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF2) and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 5A (STAT5A) genes loci in the Greek Red Cow breed, using RFLP-PCR analyzes. [...] Read more.

In the present study, we investigated the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms at the Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF2) and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 5A (STAT5A) genes loci in the Greek Red Cow breed, using RFLP-PCR analyzes. One hundred seventy-four Greek red cows were used for this study. PCR-RFLP analysis revealed that for FGF2, the frequencies of the genotypes were 0.25, 0.55 and 0.20 for the GG, GA and AA genotypes respectively and the alleles G and A sequences were 0.52 and 0.48, respectively. Genotyping of the GG, GC and CC genotypes of the STAT5A genes revealed that these frequencies were 0.22, 0.48 and CC in the investigated population, while the G and C allelic frequencies was 0.46 and 0.54, respectively. These genotyping analyses presented in this study revealed the presence of all three genotypes for the STAT5A and FGF2 genes loci, indicating that the investigated single nucleotide polymorphisms can be used in the future, in genetic selection improvements schemes, in order to improve the reproductive performance of the Greek Red Cow breed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 11th International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies in Agriculture, Food and Environment (HAICTA 2024), Volume II)

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6 pages, 352 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bee Product Royal Jelly Reduces Oxidative Stress in Healthy MRC-5 Cells and Upregulates GSTP1 Expression

by Milena Jovanović and Dragana Šeklić

Proceedings 2025, 119(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025119003 - 27 May 2025

Abstract

Redox homeostasis in the human body is strictly regulated by reducing molecules, such as glutathione, as well as various antioxidant enzymes. Examination of the antioxidant effects of natural products is necessary in order to prevent and treat various pathological conditions considering the correlation [...] Read more.

Redox homeostasis in the human body is strictly regulated by reducing molecules, such as glutathione, as well as various antioxidant enzymes. Examination of the antioxidant effects of natural products is necessary in order to prevent and treat various pathological conditions considering the correlation of their occurrence with oxidative stress damage. RJ has been identified as a very potent regulator of many metabolic processes and is considered as a medicinal agent that can cope with the oxidative stress. The present study evaluated the RJ’s ability to scavenge superoxide anion radicals O₂^∙− and modulate the expression of GSTP1 marker in healthy lung fibroblasts (MRC-5 cell line) after 24 h. Assessment was performed with the NBT test and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Our results show that RJ successfully reduced the O₂^∙− concentration for ~12% and upregulated GSTP1 gene expression (1.75 fold-change) whose protein product is responsible for catalyzation of glutathione (GSH) binding to oxidative stress metabolites and their further neutralization in cells. We found that RJ has an important protective effect against oxidative damage of healthy human cells and these properties could be used to explore new resources for pharmacological treatments, as well as to improve application of natural medicine for maintaining human health. Full article

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12 pages, 1000 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Endogenous Adaptation Strategies of Rice Millers to Water and Weather-Related Pressures in Benue State, Nigeria

by Fanen Terdoo

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118016 - 26 May 2025

Abstract

Rice milling in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains highly dependent on water availability and favorable weather conditions, making local millers vulnerable to water- and weather-related pressures (WWrP). This study examines how rice millers in Makurdi and Adikpo, Benue State, Nigeria, adapt to these pressures. [...] Read more.

Rice milling in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains highly dependent on water availability and favorable weather conditions, making local millers vulnerable to water- and weather-related pressures (WWrP). This study examines how rice millers in Makurdi and Adikpo, Benue State, Nigeria, adapt to these pressures. Data were collected through snowball sampling involving 21 rice millers and two workshops attended by 14 millers. Content and thematic analyses of data were carried out using NVivo 11. Findings indicate that rice milling operations are highly exposed and sensitive to flooding, excessive wetness, dryness, high humidity, and water scarcity. These pressures are likely to intensify due to climate change and pronounced climate variability. To adapt, millers employ endogenous strategies, including temporarily relocating or evacuating mills, rotating drying schedules, modifying drying methods, reducing or suspending parboiling during floods, and digging wells. In spite of these adaptation measures, locally milled rice continues to face issues of poor quality and diminished competitiveness. Consequently, this study highlights upgrading milling technologies and infrastructure, promoting proactive and long-term adaptation measures, and supporting collective adaptation strategies among millers to enhance resilience in the rice value chain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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7 pages, 171 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of Local Rice Processing, Packaging and Storage Among Rice Processors in Southwestern Nigeria, West Africa

by Sikiru Banjo, Timothy Olawumi, Abiala Abiala, John Jolayemi, Oye Ogunyanwo and Yemisi Asamu

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118015 - 26 May 2025

Abstract

Among the factors threatening food security in Nigeria are poor access to credit facilities, the high cost of inputs, and poor processing and storage. Cereals and grains are among the staple food crops highly consumed by Nigerians. In this study, multi-stage sampling procedure [...] Read more.

Among the factors threatening food security in Nigeria are poor access to credit facilities, the high cost of inputs, and poor processing and storage. Cereals and grains are among the staple food crops highly consumed by Nigerians. In this study, multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 1200 registered rice processors from Agricultural Development Programme zones in the Nigerian states of Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti, and a structured questionnaire was used to obtain data on primary, secondary, and tertiary postharvest operations. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The results showed that the majority (65.1%) of the respondents were male, 54.5% were 30–60 years old, 86.9% were married, 96.3% had been formally educated, and 99.9% processed, 71.5% packaged, and 79.4% stored more than 5001 kg of rice monthly. The majority (85.9%) of the respondents had no knowledge of rice moisture content and still used local means of rice processing, while 14.1% of the respondents used modern means of rice processing. We concluded that stored local rice was still subject to more wastage, spoilage, and losses due to the poor processing, packaging, and storage methods used in the study area. We recommend the adoption of modern and suitable rice technologies for processing, packaging, and storage. Furthermore, credit facilities should be made available, and inputs should be subsidized for rice farmers and processors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

6 pages, 223 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Openness in Businesses: A Case Study of Food Businesses in Thessaly

by Ioanna Grigoriou, Miltiadis Chalikias and Andreas Alexopoulos

Proceedings 2025, 117(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025117030 - 22 May 2025

Abstract

The communication of organizations with the internal and external environment is one of the most important tools for the growth and development of both an organization and its employees over time. Considerable importance is attached to the way in which information is received [...] Read more.

The communication of organizations with the internal and external environment is one of the most important tools for the growth and development of both an organization and its employees over time. Considerable importance is attached to the way in which information is received and transmitted, as well as to the dissemination of knowledge. In the era of the 4th Industrial Revolution, e-government, and digital transformation, special communication skills and competences are required of everyone. Especially in the pandemic era, new and complex problems have emerged. Communication helps to overcome friction and disagreements and at the same time influences the performance of employees. Communication spreads knowledge directly and effectively through all hierarchical levels, so that all employees are involved in decision-making. One of the features of communication is openness, which refers to unrestricted access to information and knowledge for all stakeholders. This article presents the results of a study conducted among industrial food executives. The study presents the main factors that contribute to effective communication in organizations. The results are particularly important, and any use of the results will contribute significantly to improving communication in companies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 11th International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies in Agriculture, Food and Environment (HAICTA 2024), Volume II)

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8 pages, 577 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Peanut Sector and Artisanal Wafer (Kwlikwli) and Oil (Agonlinmin) Production Units: Lessons for Policies to Support Small-Scale Agrifood Production in West Africa?

by Alida Adjilé and Roch L. Mongbo

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118014 - 22 May 2025

Abstract

Peanut production in Benin has experienced impressive growth, from 69,222 tons in 1989 to 156,901 tons in 2018, despite the liberalization of the sector, which has deprived it of significant public support. This ethnographic study conducted in Ouessè aims to understand this evolution [...] Read more.

Peanut production in Benin has experienced impressive growth, from 69,222 tons in 1989 to 156,901 tons in 2018, despite the liberalization of the sector, which has deprived it of significant public support. This ethnographic study conducted in Ouessè aims to understand this evolution using the path dependency theory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with several actors, including producers, collectors, traders and processors. The results show that these actors and private microfinance have reappropriated the historical past of peanuts in the commune of Ouessè, as well as the previous orientations of agricultural policy, to reorganize the financing, collection and marketing of peanuts in order to meet the growing demand from processing units. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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9 pages, 847 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Dynamics of Total Carotenoid Content of Yellow Root Cassava Varieties During Gari Processing

by Ibukunolu Oluwadamilola Udemba, Bunmi Olasanmi and Peter Iluebbey

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118013 - 22 May 2025

Abstract

Changes in the total carotenoid content (TCC) of three yellow root cassava varieties, IBAI070593, IBAI011368, and IBAI070539, and a check white root variety (TMSI30572) as influenced by each gari processing stage were investigated in this study. In two cropping seasons, fresh storage roots [...] Read more.

Changes in the total carotenoid content (TCC) of three yellow root cassava varieties, IBAI070593, IBAI011368, and IBAI070539, and a check white root variety (TMSI30572) as influenced by each gari processing stage were investigated in this study. In two cropping seasons, fresh storage roots were harvested 12 months after planting, analyzed for TCC (μg/g), and processed into gari. The TCCs in grated mash, fermented and dewatered mash, and gari were determined following the Bioanalyt procedure. Across processing stages and varieties, significant variations in TCC were found. The TCC levels followed the order of garification (10.46) > fermentation and dewatering (9.84) > peeling (8.78) > grating (7.62), with IBAI070593 exhibiting the highest TCC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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7 pages, 4109 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploring Soil Conservation Services in Europe’s Urban and Peri-Urban Forests: A Comparative Analysis

by Stefanos P. Stefanidis, Nikolaos D. Proutsos and Giorgos Mallinis

Proceedings 2025, 117(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025117029 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

With global urbanization on the rise, urban and peri-urban forests (UPFs) have emerged as a critical source of green infrastructure. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of soil conservation (SC) services provided by UPFs across European Union (EU) member states. Utilizing an erosion [...] Read more.

With global urbanization on the rise, urban and peri-urban forests (UPFs) have emerged as a critical source of green infrastructure. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of soil conservation (SC) services provided by UPFs across European Union (EU) member states. Utilizing an erosion modeling approach and open access earth observation (EO) data, the distribution and magnitude of SC services within UPFs are evaluated. Significant disparities in SC service supply among EU countries are revealed, with Mediterranean nations exhibiting higher values compared to central and northern European counterparts. The study underscores the pivotal role of UPFs as nature-based solutions (NbSs) in enhancing ecosystem service (ES) provision for citizen well-being. By integrating SC and ES concepts into forest management strategies, UPFs can effectively contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improving citizen well-being. This research provides valuable insights for EU policymakers and stakeholders, laying the groundwork for integrated UPF management strategies. Through prioritizing SC measures and adopting integrated approaches, policymakers can ensure the resilience and ecological integrity of UPFs, enhancing their capacity to provide vital ecosystem services in Europe’s urbanized landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 11th International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies in Agriculture, Food and Environment (HAICTA 2024), Volume II)

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6 pages, 2392 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Woody Species Dynamics in the Priority Habitat 91E0* in Nestos, Greece

by Evangelia Korakaki, Panagiotis P. Koulelis, Alexandra D. Solomou, Evangelia V. Avramidou, Georgios Karetsos, Georgios Mantakas, Konstantinos Kaoukis, Christos Georgiadis and Nikolaos Chatzipavlis

Proceedings 2025, 117(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025117028 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

Tree species composition, stand structure, and growth dynamics were evaluated within the priority habitat 91E0* (alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn., and Fraxinus excelsior L.) in the Nestos region of northeastern Greece. This study aimed to understand the ecological dynamics of this [...] Read more.

Tree species composition, stand structure, and growth dynamics were evaluated within the priority habitat 91E0* (alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn., and Fraxinus excelsior L.) in the Nestos region of northeastern Greece. This study aimed to understand the ecological dynamics of this unique habitat and to properly plan restoration actions. Measurements were conducted in May and July 2023 across 14 plots distributed randomly along both banks of the Nestos River (east and west). A total of 667 trees with a DBH ≥ 2.5 cm were recorded, representing 13 species and 10 families. Tree densities ranged from 14 to 541 stems ha⁻¹, and the average basal area was 8.77 m² ha⁻¹. Both density and basal area significantly differed between the two riverbanks. Our results indicate that Alnus glutinosa dominates in the alluvial forest, forming more resilient communities with Populus alba L., Populus nigra L., and Salix alba L. However, Fraxinus angustifolia Vahl was not as prevalent as expected. These findings highlight the need for conservation actions and draw attention to the threats facing the alluvial forest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 11th International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies in Agriculture, Food and Environment (HAICTA 2024), Volume II)

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13 pages, 799 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Smart Cities, IoT, and e-Government: Applications in Greek Municipalities

by Dimitrios Glaroudis, Alexandra Sampsonidou and Eugenia Papaioannou

Proceedings 2024, 111(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2024111026 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

The smart city era has already begun and its societal and environmental implications in urban development are expected to be huge. In this context, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have become the major path towards novel e-Government practices, to improve citizens’ quality of [...] Read more.

The smart city era has already begun and its societal and environmental implications in urban development are expected to be huge. In this context, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have become the major path towards novel e-Government practices, to improve citizens’ quality of life, increase the efficiency of infrastructure and services, promote sustainable economic growth, and integrate multiple city sectors, creating an interconnected and smart urban environment. This work offers an up-to-date survey of smart city definitions, their development framework, their characteristics, and their areas of application. Furthermore, it provides the current state of smart city applications in Greek municipalities and a proposed comparison among them, in terms of well-accepted key performance indicators, while it comments on their suitability in the context of e-Government and the challenges that must be faced regarding their efficient implementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 1st International Conference on Public Administration 2024)

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12 pages, 1071 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparative Study of the Impact of Stearin-Modified Starches from Maize, Ginger, and Sweet Potato on the Physicochemical Properties of Low-Fat Mayonnaise

by Emmanuel Panyoo Akdowa, Astaharam Didi and Tchiégang Clergé

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118012 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

The utilization of modified starches derived from ginger, sweet potatoes, and maize has been employed as a strategy to reduce the oil content in mayonnaise formulations. Amylose–lipid complexes and the native starches were synthesized, characterized, and subsequently incorporated into various mayonnaise formulations, replacing [...] Read more.

The utilization of modified starches derived from ginger, sweet potatoes, and maize has been employed as a strategy to reduce the oil content in mayonnaise formulations. Amylose–lipid complexes and the native starches were synthesized, characterized, and subsequently incorporated into various mayonnaise formulations, replacing 50 and 80 percent of the oil. The sensory analysis showed that the mayonnaises produced with 50% and 80% modified corn starch were particularly well received. However, when compared to conventional mayonnaises, the viscosity of the mayonnaises prepared with 50% and 80% modified maize starch was found to be remarkably low. This outcome demonstrates that when preparing low-fat mayonnaise, it is not possible to substitute tuber starches for fat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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11 pages, 3247 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Characterizing Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Smoked Chicken from Ilorin and Implications for Human Health

by Idorenyin Nwaehujor, Fatimah Badmos, Mercy Ige, Tawakalitu Ahmed, Damilola Ariyo, Saburi Atanda, Adijat Okunlade, Adetutu Adediji and Lateef Sanni

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118011 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

Smoked chicken products from the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute and three locations in Ilorin, Nigeria, were analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using gas chromatography. Total PAH levels ranged from 490.893 to 509.064 μg/kg across samples, with benzo(α)pyrene levels (0.947–1.072 μg/kg) within [...] Read more.

Smoked chicken products from the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute and three locations in Ilorin, Nigeria, were analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using gas chromatography. Total PAH levels ranged from 490.893 to 509.064 μg/kg across samples, with benzo(α)pyrene levels (0.947–1.072 μg/kg) within the safe limit of 2 μg/kg. However, PAH4 levels (477.771–491.757 μg/kg) exceeded the European Union’s safe limit of 30 μg/kg. Mean Estimated Daily Intake, Carcinogenic Risk, and Toxicity Equivalent Factor were 0.299 µg/kg/day, 45.341, and 1.443, respectively. Regular monitoring and enforcement of quality control standards are crucial for consumer safety while promoting best practices across the industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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15 pages, 1923 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Post-Harvest Losses Along the Main Value-Added Chains and Strategies for Reduction in the Soybean Sector in Benin

by Daniel Missimahou Noukpozounkou, Roméo Sossou, Hervé Comlan Sossou, Juvénal Privaël Koffi, Abel Hotegni, Valère Dansou, Alfred Akpado Oluwatogni Ayedoun, Symphorien Dossouhoui and Soul-Kifouly Midingoyi

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118010 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

The aim of this study was to provide information on post-harvest losses (PHLs) along the main value-added chains in the soybean industry, and on farmers’ strategies for reducing these losses in Benin. Data were collected using a subjective method (questionnaires) from 152 direct [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to provide information on post-harvest losses (PHLs) along the main value-added chains in the soybean industry, and on farmers’ strategies for reducing these losses in Benin. Data were collected using a subjective method (questionnaires) from 152 direct actors in the soybean value chain and an objective method (technological monitoring using technological monitoring sheets) from 27 processing units using a two-stage sampling technique in eighteen of the country’s municipalities. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that post-harvest losses in soybean value chains ranged from 0.03% to 7.98%. The highest loss percentages were 7.98% (production), 10.0% (processing), and 4.27% (marketing), and were obtained during the subjective measurements. The link most affected by PHL was the production link. These losses were mainly observed during threshing, winnowing, sorting, and harvesting operations. The main causes of these losses were poor mechanization and a lack of skills for post-harvest operations. The main strategies developed by players to cope with this situation remained traditional (timely harvesting, use of appropriate equipment, and good storage practices). However, additional efforts in terms of infrastructure, adapted subsidies/credits, and recruitment of specialists are needed to mechanize the operations most sensitive to losses and to reinforce the capacities of agricultural actors in order to considerably reduce post-harvest losses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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17 pages, 1641 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Rice Value Chain Upgrading in Côte d’Ivoire: The Role of the Improved GEM System for Rice Parboiling

by Alban Landry Kanon, Rachidi Aboudou, Meougbé Ernest Depieu, Aminou Arouna and Sali Atanga Ndindeng

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118009 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Rice is a staple food in Côte d’Ivoire, but parboiling remains a weak link in the local rice value chain. Parboiled rice has superior nutritional and physical properties compared with white rice. In 2017, AfricaRice introduced the “Grain quality enhancer, Energy efficient, and [...] Read more.

Rice is a staple food in Côte d’Ivoire, but parboiling remains a weak link in the local rice value chain. Parboiled rice has superior nutritional and physical properties compared with white rice. In 2017, AfricaRice introduced the “Grain quality enhancer, Energy efficient, and durable Material” (GEM) parboiling system in Côte d’Ivoire to address these challenges. This study evaluated the rice value chain, parboilers’ perceptions of GEM technology, and its role in upgrading the rice value chain. Using two survey types (parboiler association level (focus group) and parboiler household level), 179 rice parboilers and 77 key players were randomly sampled and interviewed in Côte d’Ivoire. We used descriptive statistics and the parboiler budget for the profitability analysis. The results show that parboiling, primarily undertaken by women, is profitable in Côte d’Ivoire. Parboilers identified the key advantages of the GEM system, including improved rice quality, higher output rates, better nutritional value, and the ability to parboil larger volumes of rice. GEM technology enhanced rice quality, increased parboilers’ incomes, and reduced energy costs by 22.3%, saving an average of 73,090 FCFA per ton of parboiled paddy. The study recommends scaling up GEM technology through local fabricator training and broader dissemination in rice-growing regions to further strengthen the rice value chain in Côte d’Ivoire. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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13 pages, 979 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Germination and Drying as a Traditional Processing Method for Soybean Incorporation in Fish Feed in Togo

by Toï N’feide, Soudah Boma, Abdoul-Mountholib Kondi, Ekanao Tedihou, N’pagyendou Lare, Kossi T. A. Apaloo, Mouhamadou Amadou Ly, Yao Lombo and Essodina Talaki

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118008 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

The effects of germination (fresh germinated soybean [SG1F]) and post-germination drying (dried germinated soybean [SG1S]) on the crude protein (CP) levels, aflatoxin content, survival, and growth performance of Nile tilapia fry (Oreochromis niloticus) were evaluated. Raw soybean (SC) and roasted soybean [...] Read more.

The effects of germination (fresh germinated soybean [SG1F]) and post-germination drying (dried germinated soybean [SG1S]) on the crude protein (CP) levels, aflatoxin content, survival, and growth performance of Nile tilapia fry (Oreochromis niloticus) were evaluated. Raw soybean (SC) and roasted soybean (ST) served as controls. Laboratory analyses revealed CP contents of 11.74%, 38.72%, 38.42%, and 34.72% for SG1F, SG1S, RT, and RS, respectively. Aflatoxin levels were 2.3 µg/kg for SG1S, 1.66 µg/kg for RS, 1.60 µg/kg for RT, and 0.00 µg/kg for SG1F. Experimental diets, formulated to be isoproteic (35.44%) and isolipidic (8.73%), were prepared using flour from these soybean treatments and tested on tilapia fry with an average initial weight of 11.86 ± 2.15 g. The study was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replicates in 1 m³ tanks stocked at 35 fry per tank over 56 days. Weight gains were 23.40 ± 10.21 g, 18.93 ± 8.67 g, 16.30 ± 9.92 g, and 16.07 ± 5.55 g for RT, RS, SG1S, and SG1F, respectively. Survival rates were 100%, 90.67%, 89.33%, and 88% for SG1F, RS, RT, and SG1S, respectively. Daily growth rates showed a consistent upward trend for all diets from the start to the end of the experiment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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13 pages, 725 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Design, Development and Evaluation of a Biomass-Fueled Cabinet Dryer for High-Quality Cassava Flour Production

by Suraju Adegbite, Wahabi Asiru, Oyewole Okewole, Wasiu Awoyale, Peter Kolawole, Thiano Diallo and Adebayo Abass

Proceedings 2025, 118(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025118007 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Cassava is an essential staple crop in developing nations, ensuring food security and generating income for smallholder farmers. The lack of modern drying technology in rural regions requires effective strategies to reduce post-harvest losses and improve product quality. This study introduces a biomass-powered [...] Read more.

Cassava is an essential staple crop in developing nations, ensuring food security and generating income for smallholder farmers. The lack of modern drying technology in rural regions requires effective strategies to reduce post-harvest losses and improve product quality. This study introduces a biomass-powered cabinet dryer designed to produce high-quality cassava flour (HQCF), featuring a heat exchanger, blower, and drying chamber constructed from locally sourced materials. The drying chamber contains two racks, each equipped with 10 trays, accommodating 40 to 80 kg of wet cassava mash per batch. The dryer, operating at temperatures between 50 and 115 °C for a duration of 10–120 min, decreased moisture content from 38.21% to around 11%. Drying efficiencies varied from 59.22% to 88.24%, whereas biomass efficiencies ranged from 3.0% to 4.0%. The results demonstrate the dryer’s efficiency in drying, while the study emphasizes the necessity of customized technical solutions to assist rural populations in cassava-producing areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The CORAF’s 2023 Symposium on Processing and Transformation of Agricultural Products in West and Central Africa)

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