bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuous Hydrosonic Reactor for Methyl Esters Production Process from Low Free Fatty Acid Oil Using 3D-Printed Rotor
Authors: Oo Ye Min , Somnuk Krit
Published: June 2020

The continuous methyl ester production process was studied using a hydrosonic reactor to determine the relationship between the rotor speed and the purity of methyl ester with TLC/FID technique. The hydrosonic reactor consisted of three main parts: a rotor, a stator, and a motor. The key part is a 3D-printed rotor; the dimensions were 60 mm in outer diameter, 50 mm in length. The rotating 3D-printed rotor was driven and axially rotated inside the stator by shaft, and 400 kW electric motor was used to blend the mixtures. The dimensions of stator were 70 mm inner diameter and 70 mm length, and 5 mm thickness. The gap distance between the rotor and stator was fixed at 10 mm. The hole on the surface of rotor was circular shape (80 holes of 6 mm diameter) and designed radically throughout the axis. The ratio of diameter to depth of the circular hole was 1.0. In the preliminary experiment, the location and dimension of holes were fixed, and 3D-printed rotor speed was varied at 1000, 2000 and 4000 rpm under the condition of 23 vol.% methanol, 10 g KOH/L and 37 L/hr RPO flow rate at 60°C. The results showed that methyl ester purification reached 93.920 wt.%, 95.325 wt.%, 96.700 wt.%, and 97.333 wt.% at 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 rpm of rotor speed. Therefore, over 90 wt.% of methyl esters can be produced from RPO by using rotor-stator type of hydrodynamic cavitation.
Fabrication of the Functionalized Carbon Nanomaterials via Catalytic Pyrolysis of Heteroatom-Containing Compounds
Authors: Vedyagin Aleksey A. , Mishakov Ilya V. , Bauman Yurii I. , Kenzhin Roman M.
Published: June 2020

Commercial Ni-Cr and specially prepared Ni-Pd alloys were used as a catalyst’s precursor for the synthesis of the heteroatom-doped carbon nanofibers. In order to provide the intercalation of the doping heteroatom into the structure of the carbon product, the synthesis was performed in the one pot regime, when heteroatom-containing substance was subjected to decomposition simultaneously with carbon source compound. Chlorobenzene, 1-bromobutane, 1-iodobutane, and melamine were used as heteroatom-and carbon-containing sources in the experiments carried out in a closed reactor system. 1,2-dichloriethane, being a source of chlorine and carbon, was decomposed in a flow-through reactor system. Additionally, acetonitrile and carbon dioxide were admixed to 1,2-dichloriethane as nitrogen and oxygen sources. It was found that in all the cases, except for halogenated butanes, the amount of the intercalated heteroatom can reach 3-8 at.%. Both the substrate’s nature and the composition of the reaction mixture were found to affect the morphologic features of the carbon nanostructures produced.
Design of Tapered Periodic Meta-Surfaces for Suppressing Edge Electromagnetic Scattering
Authors: Chen Hai Yan , Li Guan Ya , Lu Li Juan , Liang Di Fei , Weng Xiao Long , Xie Hai Yan , Deng Long Jiang
Published: June 2020

In this paper, a novel approach for designing tapered periodic meta-surfaces (TPMS) is proposed for suppressing electromagnetic scattering from a trailing edge of a square metallic plate with a given thickness. The TPMS is realized by periodic square metallic patches with tapered dimensions at the direction perpendicular to the considered edge but keeping its period unchanged. Based on the geometric phase interaction, the mechanism of suppressing electromagnetic scattering is analyzed. The lossy material is not required in this design, so it doesn’t generate thermal energy and benefits infrared stealth of military objects. The backscattering properties from the trailing edge with the proposed TPMS loading are analyzed and compared with that of original trailing edge. It is observed that wide angular trailing edge scattering suppressing can be obtained and the average value of mono-static radar cross section (RCS) reduction is 10 dB for L-band, S-band and C-band. Finally, the bi-static RCS properties and energy distribution of the proposed structure are also proposed to explain the mechanism of the electromagnetic scattering suppression of the trailing edge employed with the TPMS.
XRD and SEM Analyses of Bulk Ga-Doped Li7La3Zr2O12 Li- Ion Conducting Solid Electrolyte Prepared via Hot-Pressing Method
Authors: Blaquera Aimee Lorraine M. , Macalisang Christine Mae , Palomares Jan Carlo , Garcia Renz Marion , Cervera Rinlee Butch M.
Published: June 2020

In this study, bulk lithium-ion conducting solid electrolyte of Ga-doped Li7La3Zr2O12 (Li7-3XGaxLa3Zr2O12) where x = 0.1 (Ga-LLZO) was prepared via hot pressing at 500 °C. Precursor powder for hot-pressing was prepared using conventional solid state reaction method. Planetary ball milling was employed to investigate the particle size effect on the structure and densification of hot-pressed samples. XRD patterns of the bulk hot-pressed sample revealed a crystalline phase of which the major peaks observed can be indexed to a cubic LLZO structure; however, a major impurity phase of La2Zr2O7 was observed for the ball-milled sample. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis showed about 12% weight loss below 900 °C which may have affected the observed hot-pressing structure. Although lower density measurement and an impurity phase of La2Zr2O7 were observed for the ball-milled sample, ball-milling also resulted to a more homogeneous and finer particle size as shown by SEM images results.
Novelty and Applications of MMCs with Aluminium Metal Base Using Stir Casting Technique - A Review
Authors: Mohan Reddy K. Krishna , Reddy Ch. Kishore , Karthik P. , Krishna Mallarapu Gopi
Published: June 2020

In the fields of automobile unto aviation, the extensive applied metal in many optimized output conditions is Aluminium and its based metal matrix composites, which are now-a-days, are called as Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs). These AMCs are as potential as they processed very much able in their mechanical and physical properties viz., tensile strength, strain, hardness, wear and fatigue. In this review, the properties which are essentially vital in attaining such improved performance in particular applications are discussed along with the special methodologies and their limitations in brief. Hence, the effective factors which are the cause for their output, like, type of reinforcement, amount of reinforcement, size of particulate of reinforcement, temperature and pressure etc., were also scrutinized retrospectively.
Effect of Aggregate Packing on Strength of Reactive Powder Concrete: Modeling and Experimental Evaluation
Authors: Bektimirova Umut , Mukhammedrakhym Islam , Shon Chang Seon , Zhang Di Chuan , Kim Jong Ryeol
Published: June 2020

This research investigates the effects of aggregate packing degree on the strength of Reactive Powder Concrete (RPC) mixtures on the basis of the Toufar model. To optimize the packing degree of sand for strength development of RPC, various sand blends with the combination of different fraction size were used. In addition, 10 different blends that showed best packing degree were chosen to investigate the compressive strength of RPC. It was found that experimental verification results conform to Toufar model calculations. The test result shows that packing degree had a significant effect on the strength of RPC: Mixtures with higher packing degree can achieve higher compressive strength. Furthermore, Results indicate the Toufar model can predict packing degree of aggregate blends.
Correlation of Unconfined Compressive Strength and California Bearing Ratio in Laterite Soil Stabilization Using Varied Zeolite Content Activated by Waterglass
Authors: Muhiddin Achmad Bakri , Tangkeallo Marthen M.
Published: June 2020

In remote areas, most roads still use pavements that are very sensitive to climate change, especially those using clay pavements with high plasticity. In addition to the issue of cost, the difficulty of obtaining a proper source of material is another problem that has led to soaring prices for materials. In this regard, a study was conducted using local materials, namely zeolite as a stabilizing material added with waterglass as activating agent. The research began with samples of laterite soil and natural zeolite for XRD test (microstructure testing), and then testing for laterite soil’s index properties and engineering properties, namely Unconfined Compressive Strength and CBR value. The purpose of the test is to determine the correlation between the Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and the soil bearing capacity (CBR) caused by adding zeolite as stabilizer material and waterglass as activator with increasing curing time. Laterite soils contain a brownish red iron oxide. The stabilizing material zeolite contains a crystalline mineral of alumina silicate SiO2. While waterglass composed of sodium meta silicate. Stabilization carried out by mixing 4%, 8%, 12%, 16%, and 20% of zeolite with addition of 2% waterglass, percentage was measured based on soil dry weight. Specimens were tested at curing time of 0, 7, 14, and 28 days. The test result shows increasing UCS and CBR values with increasing percentage of zeolite. At mix of 20% zeolite and 2% waterglass, the unconfined compressive strength reaches 23.54 kg/cm2 with CBR value 58% at 28 days of curing time.
Possibilities Reducing of Energy Consumption by Cast Iron Production in Foundry
Authors: Futaš Peter , Pribulová Alena , Pokusova Marcela
Published: June 2020

Modern metal melting includes of cast iron production in different types furnaces with specific characteristics. Furnaces usually adopted are cupola and induction furnaces. Casting cast iron is a manufacturing process characterized by its energy-intensive nature (ie, the use of large amounts of energy per unit of product for main activities) and a long tradition. An example of the energy balance in a foundry is the design of procedures to reduce energy consumption. The most important is the consumption of energy in the production of hot metals (52%), therefore reducing the cost of preparing hot metal is especially important by reducing the energy consumption of metal melting. The most important energy cost practices are the consumption of hot metal to produce 1mt of high quality castings (often 1700 kg) and reduce the energy consumption of hot metal production that varies over a wide range (from 500 to 1300 kWh/mt). Although scientific and technological aspects are now well established, new studies seem to be needed to describe "foundry of the future", where energy and material efficiency is of great importance to ensure competitiveness alongside environmental protection. The paper presents specific procedures for reducing both economically important indicators in cupola and electric induction furnaces.
Influence of Charge Composition on EN-GJS-500-7 Ductile Iron Properties in Foundry Operating Conditions
Authors: Pribulová Alena , Futaš Peter , Pokusova Marcela
Published: June 2020

Worldwide production of ductile iron castings reached in year 2017 26,428,148 metric tons, which is 34% of the total weight of all castings made from cast iron. The most significant increase in ductile iron castings was recorded in Slovakia, up to 78.6%. Castings from ductile iron have a very huge utilization thanks their very good foundry and mechanical properties. The current economic situation in all industries forces entrepreneurs and producers to rationalize production and reduce production costs, with a worldwide trend to increase the share of steel scrap, a technology for the production of ductile cast iron. The paper describes the results of research focused on the effect of charge composition, mainly the share of scrap steel on the final properties and structure of ductile iron EN-GJS-500-7 under the operating conditions of foundry. Six melts with different charge composition were made. The samples from all melts were taken and chemical analysis, microstructure analysis and testing on mechanical properties were made on them. The mechanical properties of produced globular cast irons were according with the relevant standard. It is important to mention that there has been a significant increase in strength characteristics in melts in which the carbon content exceeded 4% (CE = 4.7 and 4.8%, respectively).
Enhancement of Photocatalytic Performance of Anatase by Silver Deposition through Chemical Reduction Process at Room Temperature
Authors: Narkbuakaew Tanaporn , Sujaridworakul Pornapa
Published: June 2020

Herein, Ag-anatase photocatalysts were synthesized though chemical reduction method under room temperature by using PVP and NaBH4 as stabilizer and strong reducing agent, respectively. The prepared photocatalysts were characterized by the following technique: XRD, SEM, HR-TEM, EDX, and UV-Vis-NIR. The photocatalytic performance of 0.05 g of photocatalysts were performed under UV irradiation within 1 h by using 10 mg/L of rhodamine B as the representative of organic pollutant. The results demonstrated that the optimum Ag loading contents were 2 %wt (2-ST) which can degrade rhodamine B up to 98.54%. Therefore, the photocatalytic performance of bare anatase could be enhanced by deposited Ag nanoparticles. Further, this prepared Ag-anatase could be suitable for environmental application.
Effect of Thermal Treatment on Thermal Properties, Surface Chemistry, Crystalline Structure and Methylene Blue Removal of Polyvinyl Alcohol/TiO2 Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Ratchawong Sirinan , Wacharawichanant Sirirat , Tanodekaew Siriporn
Published: June 2020

In this research, titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were immobilized into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix without and with surfactants via solution casting film combined with thermal treatment method. The dispersion and distribution of TiO2 nanoparticles presented by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the uniform distribution of TiO2 nanoparticles in PVA matrix with surfactant. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed increasing intensity peak at 560-800 cm-1 corresponding to Ti-O stretching vibration indicating interaction between PVA and TiO2 after thermal treatment. X-ray diffraction (XRD) result showed peak of PVA crystal structure due to the thermal treatment, and the addition of surfactant could decrease the average crystallite size of TiO2 in PVA/TiO2 nanocomposite films. Photocatalytic activity was determined from the film efficiency on removal of methylene blue (MB) under ultraviolet (UV). The results showed the greater MB removal efficiency of the PVA/TiO2 nanocomposite films with surfactant and thermal treatment than those without surfactant and thermal treatment.
Management of a kidney stone in ectopic pelvic kidney with Extracorporeal Shockwave Litothripsy: Description of a case and revision of literature
Authors: Di Franco Carmelo Agostino , Burrello Maurizio , Guzzardi Francesco , Intagliata Eva , Oxenius Irina , Galvagno Lavinia , Cordaro Calogero
Published: June 2020

Urolithiasis is one of the most frequent disease in the population and it represents one of the most frequent causes of access to emergency department. In addition. congenital anomalies occur more often in the kidney than in any other organ and the association of both renal abnormalities and stones is of clinical relevance. In this report, we discuss a case of a women with pelvic ectopic kidney affected by a large pyelic stone treated with ESWL (Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy).
Holmium laser prostatectomy in a tertiary Italian center: A prospective cost analysis in comparison with bipolar TURP and open prostatectomy
Authors: Schiavina Riccardo , Bianchi Lorenzo , Giampaoli Marco , Borghesi Marco , Dababneh Hussam , Chessa Francesco , Pultrone Cristian , Angiolini Andrea , Barbaresi Umberto , Cevenini Matteo , Manferrari Fabio , Bertaccini Alessandro , Porreca Angelo , Brunocilla Eugenio
Published: June 2020

Objective: To assess the economic impact of Holmium laser enucleation of prostate (HoLEP) in comparison with transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) and open prostatectomy (OP). Methods: Between January 2017 and January 2018, we prospectively enrolled 151 men who underwent HoLEP, TURP or OP at tertiary Italian center, due to bladder outflow obstruction symptoms. Patients with prostate volume ≤ 70 cc and those with prostate volume > 70 cc were scheduled for TURP or HoLEP and OP or HoLEP, respectively. Intraoperative and early post-operative functional outcomes were recorded up to 6 months follow up. Cost analysis was carried out considering direct costs (operating room [OR] utilization costs, nurse, surgeons and anesthesiologists’ costs, OR disposable products costs and OR products sterilization costs), indirect costs (hospital stay costs and diagnostics costs) and global costs as sum of both direct and indirect plus general costs related to hospitalization. Cost analysis was performed comparing patients referred to TURP and HoLEP with prostate volume ≤ 70 cc and men underwent OP and HoLEP with prostate volume > 70 cc respectively. Results: Overall, 53 (35.1%), 51 (33.7%) and 47 (31.1%) were scheduled to HoLEP, TURP and OP, respectively. Both TURP, HoLEP and OP proved to effectively improve urinary symptoms related to BPE. Considering patients with prostate volume ≤ 70 cc, median global cost of HoLEP was similar to median global cost of TURP (2151.69 € vs. 2185.61 €, respectively; p = 0.61). Considering patients with prostate volume > 70 cc, median global cost of HoLEP was found to be significantly lower than median global cost of OP (2174.15 € vs. 4064.97 €, respectively; p ≤ 0.001). Conclusions: Global costs of HoLEP are comparable to those of TURP, offering a cost saving of only 11.4 € in favor of HoLEP. Conversely, HoLEP proved to be a strong competitor of OP because of significant global cost sparing amounting to 1890.82 € in favor of HoLEP.
Geospatial tools and Chagas control: a critical comment on the paper of Weinberg et al., Evaluation and planning of Chagas control activities using geospatial tools. Geospat Health 2019;14:229-238
Authors: Gorla David E.
Published: June 2020

The contribution of the geospatial tools to the vector control activities of Chagas disease is very clear for the academic and technology-prone communities, but not so much for the state-dependent health agents (national or provincial) that are ultimately responsible for disease control in Latin America. (...)
Glucose Reduces the Osmopressor Response in Connection with the Tyrosine Phosphorylation of Focal Adhesion Kinase in Red Blood Cells
Authors: Chu You-Hsiang , Tai Ying-Hsuan , Yeh Chun-Chang , Tsou Mei-Yung , Lee Herng-Sheng , Ho Shung-Tai , Li Min-Hui , Lin Tso-Chou , Lu Chih-Cherng
Published: June 2020

Glucose ingestion attenuates the water ingestion-induced increase in the total peripheral vascular resistance and orthostatic tolerance. We investigated the gastrointestinal physiology of glucose by examining the effect of glucose ingestion on the functional expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in red blood cell (RBC) membrane. This study was performed in 24 young, healthy subjects. Blood samples were collected at 5 min before and 25 min and 50 min after an ingestion of 10% glucose water 500 mL, water 500 mL, or normal saline 500 mL. We determined glucose and osmolality in plasma, and phosphorylation of aquaporin 1 (AQP1), glucose transporter 1 (Glut1), and FAK in RBC membrane. Our results showed that glucose ingestion reduced the rise of peripheral vascular resistance after water ingestion and upregulated the serine phosphorylation of Glut1. It also lowered both the serine phosphorylation of FAK and tyrosine phosphorylation of AQP1, compared with the ingestion of either water or saline. In an ex vivo experiment, glucose activated the Glut1 receptor and subsequently reduced the expression of FAK compared with 0.8% saline alone. We concluded that glucose activates Glut1 and subsequently lowers the functional expression of FAK, a cytoskeleton protein of RBCs. The functional change in the RBC membrane proteins in connection with the attenuation of osmopressor response may elucidate the pathophysiology of glucose in postprandial hypotension.
Effect of slope aspect and position on soil infiltrability in an ultisol in Akwa Ibom State, southern Nigeria
Authors: Ogban P.I. , Okon A.X.
Published: June 2020

Soil infiltrability is an important hydrological process that enhances soil water storage and the minimization of runoff. A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of slope aspect (north, NfS and south, SfS) and positions [(crest (CR), upper (US), middle (MS) and lower (LS)] on soil infiltrability,  that is, initial infiltration rate (io), steady-state infiltration rate (ic) and cumulative infiltration (I), and sorptivity (S) and transmissivity (A) on the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm (T&SF) located on an Ultisol in Akwa Ibom State, southern Nigeria. Results show that the initial  infiltration rate (io) was 43.20 cm h−1 on SfS and significantly (p < 0.05) higher than 36.60 cm h−1 on NfS. The final infiltration rate (ic) was not significantly different between NfS (9.60 cm h−1) and SfS (7.20 cm h−1). The Cumulative depth of water (I) infiltrated was similar between NfS (28.18 cm) and SfS (21.46 cm). Soil water sorptivity (S) was moderately high on the two slopes but significantly (p < 0.05) lower in NfS (0.49 cm min−1/2)  than in SfS (0.70 cm min−1/2) soil. Soil water transmissivity (A) was similar in NfS (0.19 cm h−1) and SfS (0.16 cm h−1) soil. The results indicate that the aspects were similar in io, ic, I, S and A. However, since soil texture is similar among the aspects, similar soil management practices, example tillage  and mulching, could be adopted to enhance water infiltration to improve ic for increases in soil water conservation and crop production on the  T&SF.

Key words: slope aspect and position, soil infiltrability, sorptivity and transmissivity, soil water management
In vitro antifungal effect of crude extracts and solvent fractions of Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Del. and  Vernonia amygdalina Del. against fungi isolated from formalin fixed cadavers
Authors: Teshome Yossef , Mulu Abay , Abdeta Abera , Gizaw Birhanu , Gemeda Negero , Kebede Tadesse , Asres Kaleab
Published: June 2020

No Abstract.
Challenges Associated with Postgraduate Students’ Awareness and Use of Online Journals in Nigerian Universities
Authors: Mole Austin J.C . , Edewor Nelson
Published: June 2020

This study investigates the challenges associated with postgraduate students’ awareness and use of online journals in Nigerian universities. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. The population of the study comprised 10, 775 registered postgraduate students in federal and state universities in south-south zone of Nigeria. Based on the Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination table, a sample size of 370 postgraduate students were chosen for the study. The questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. Copies of the questionnaire were distributed by hand by the researchers with the help of research assistants. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyse the data from the questionnaire. The major findings challenges associated with postgraduate students’ awareness and use of online journals were identified to include absence of enlightenment on online journals by lecturers (𝑋̅2.94,SD=.87), lack of knowledge of publishers of online journals (𝑋̅2.67,SD=.98), lack of user education on online journals from university libraries (𝑋̅2.80,SD=.93), inadequate computer systems in university libraries (𝑋̅3.58,SD=.73), frequent power outages in libraries (𝑋̅3.48,SD=.66), and slow internet connectivity in university libraries (𝑋̅2.96,SD=.94) among others. Respondents in the study proffered several strategies for enhancing awareness and use of online journals. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the cost of data bundle should be reduced by Internet service providers, particularly for postgraduate students to enhance the use of online journals. University libraries should engage in aggressive awareness campaign on online journals and their usefulness for effective research in universities. Additionally, university libraries should create a database of open access online journals to enable users search full text articles online from various publishers.

Keywords:  Online Journals, Awareness, Use, Universities, Challenges
Extension agents perception of open data usage in agricultural communication in Abia State
Authors: Ifeanyi-obi C.C , Ibiso H.D
Published: June 2020

The study assessed agricultural extension agent’s perception of open data usage in agricultural communication in Abia State. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 83 extension agents for the study. Data for the study was collected with the use of questionnaire and described with frequency counts, percentages and mean. A moderate percentage (68%) of extension agents were aware of open data with only 15% and 7% having high and very high level of awareness. A relatively high percentage (54%) understand what open data is all about with only 49% consenting to be involved in the use of open data mainly at a moderate level (66%). Extension agents mainly perceive open data to facilitate agricultural research ( x̄ = 3.2), facilitate access to research findings (x̄  = 3.2), give access to the work of other extension agents in other states ( x̄ = 3.2), expose them to innovation in agriculture ( x̄ = 3.2) and ensure timely access to all necessary information (x̄ = 3.1). The major challenges to the use of open data among extension agents were lack of fund to purchase internet bundle ( x̄ = 2.2), unavailability of internet facilities( x̄ = 2.1), lack of basic ICT facilities ( x̄ = 2.1) as well as lack of adequate knowledge of the use of ICT( x̄ = 2.0) and open data ( x̄ = 2.0). Propagation of the use of open data could be done mainly by provision of ICTs in offices ( = 3.6), training of extension agents to understand the concept of open data ( x̄ = 3.6) and provision of internet facilities for extension agents ( x̄ = 3.5). The study emphasized the need for Government through the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) to provide basic ICT tools in offices and provision of internet facilities to enable extension agents maximize the use of open data.

Keywords: Open data, challenges, agriculture, extension agents
Food security situations among female headed households in Enugu East Senatorial Zone of Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Ozioko Remigius. I. , Nwigwe Blessing. C. , Asadu Anthonia. N. , Nwafor Miracle. I. , Nnadi Onyinyechi. I. , Onyia Chukwuemeka. C. , Enwelu Innocent. A , Oluwasegun Felix. O
Published: June 2020

The study examined food security situation of female-headed households in Enugu State, Nigeria. The study identified livelihood activities of respondents, ascertained the food security situation, examined constraints to food security, and examined coping strategies of respondents. Multi-stage sampling procedure, snow ball and simple random techniques were used to select 72 female-headed households. Data were analyzed using mean score and factor analysis. Results showed that respondents livelihood activities included crop production (77.8%), processing and sale of palm produce (43.1%) and processing of farm produce (38.9%). Household food security situations included food secure to moderately food-insecure. Major constraints to food security of the respondents were poverty ( x̄ =2.52), lack of education and skill ( x̄ =2.50), poor rural infrastructure ( x̄ =2.50) and poor nutrition education ( x̄ =2.54). Coping strategies included restriction of food consumption of adults ( x̄ =2.21) reducing food consumption per day ( x̄ =2.00) and staying hungry ( x̄ =2.04). The study concludes that the households in the area were grossly food insecure as they spent more of their meager earning only on food. There was poor nutrition education and lack of productive skills. Poverty was found to be a major cause of food insecurity in the area as it robs people the option of fine choices. Hence, government and other development agencies should provide policies and efforts that assist Female headed households in capacity building like providing them with productive resources which will expand their scope of livelihood choices.

Keywords: Food security, female headed household, food situation, poverty
Smallholder farmers willingness to pay for privatized agricultural extension services in Tigray National Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreegziabher Kidane Tesfay , Mezgebo Gidey Kidu
Published: June 2020

This study assessed farmers’ willingness to pay for privatization of agricultural extension services and examined factors that determine willingness to pay for those services. Multistage sampling procedure was used in selecting 240 households. Data were collected using household survey, focus group discussion and key informant interview tools. Data were analyzed using percentage and logit model. Results showed that 58% of the respondents were willing to pay for the privatization of agricultural extension services. Farm size, age, family size, credit access, frequency of extension contact and income were significantly influenced farmers’ willingness to pay for privatization of agricultural extension services. Privatization of agricultural extension services encourages graduates of agricultural sciences to launch consultancy firms and this engenders professional entrepreneurship. Number of visits, socioeconomic, and institutional factors must be given emphasis for privatizing the agricultural extension service in Ethiopia. Moreover, government should launch privatization parallel to the public agricultural extension services

Keywords: Agricultural extension service, willingness, privatization. Ethiopia
Training needs of melon (citrillus colocynthis (l.) schrad) farmers in Okigwe Agricultural Zones of Imo state, Nigeria
Authors: Emodi Angela I. , Nwokolo Chinyelu I. , Obiorah Joy A.
Published: June 2020

This study ascertained training needs of melon farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 100 melon farmers from 10 town communities in the selected rural households. Data were collected through structured questionnaire and analysed using percentage and mean scores. Results from the study showed that the farmers training need in melon production among others were: sourcing of credit facilities ( x̄ =3.65), appropriate market information ( x̄ =3.58) and sourcing and training on fertilizer application ( x̄ =3.50). The main channel of communication among farmers was sales agents (hawkers) and marketers of melon products ( x̄ = 3.06). The major constraints to melon production were inadequate fund ( x̄ = 3.24), poor sales/ pricing system ( x̄ =3.15), low shelf life of processed melon products ( x̄ =3.11). Extension outfits should disseminate information and educate farmers on credit facilities, appropriate market and training on new techniques of how to cultivate melon in and out of season.

Keywords: Households, agricultural extension, melon production
Marketing channel, cost, and margins of crayfish wholesalers and retailers in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Onyeagocha S.U.O. , Lemchi I.J. , Komi P.L. , Gbolagun A.O.
Published: June 2020

Marketing channel, cost, and margins of crayfish in Rivers State, Nigeria was studied using a total eighty traders (thirty retailers and fifty  wholesalers) selected from six major crayfish markets using a multi-stage sampling technique, six local government areas were selected purposively based on the existing crayfish trading activities, from each LGAs a major crayfish market was selected. Primary and secondary sources of data were collected for the study. The selling prices at wholesale and retail levels of the marketing channel and cost incurred in marketing were used to address the objectives. The results of the study showed that the direction of flow of crayfish, three marketing channels were identified, although,  wholesalers get profit, they also incur more cost in marketing than retailers, the highest and lowest average selling price were recorded as N1834.43/kg and N1279.90/kg for crayfish traders, the consumers’ price percentage that was received by the crayfish farmers (harvesters) is 28.90%  and 16.69% of the net marketing margin on retail and wholesale respectively of the selling price, while both levels were inefficient in their marketing efficiency. The major challenges faced by crayfish traders in Rivers State were poor access to credit facilities, inadequate storage facilities and high market levy. Provision of government and private access to credit for traders, improved storage facilities and formulation and enactment of independent act for crayfish marketing were highly recommended.

Keywords: Marketing channel, crayfish, cost and margins
Effect of National Home Growing School Feeding Program (NHGSFP) on the nutritional status of children of rural households in Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Adebisi O.A. , Adebisi L.O. , Jonathan A. , Ajani O.O. , Asogwa U. G
Published: June 2020

The “National Home Growing School Feeding Program” by Nigeria government was designed to overcome malnutrition disorders through regular  school-feeding to improve the nutrition status and the education abilities of school children. Hence, this study focused on assessing the effect of ‘national home growing school feeding program’ on the nutritional status of children of rural households in Osun State, Nigeria. Primary data was  used for the study. Two stage random sampling was used for the study, the first stage which was the random selection of four (4) rural communities from each of the three (3) Agro-ecological zones present in the state and the second stage was the random sampling of 10 households from each of the selected communities, comprising of households whose children are beneficiaries and not beneficiaries of the program. A total of 120 households were used for the study. A structured questionnaire was used for the purpose of extracting needed information from the respondents. The data collected was analyzed using Descriptive Statistics, Anthropometry, Logistics Regression Model and Chi-square Analysis. Result of analysis revealed that nutritional status of children in the study area is significantly influenced by child’s sex, child’s age, mother’s education, national home  growing school feeding program, access to clean water, access to sanitation facilities and household income. The effect of national home growing school feeding program on the nutritional status of the children was statistically significant (chi-square=37.263, p < 0.000) which means the program has positive effect on the nutritional status of children in the study area. The study therefore recommended that government should ensure the  sustenance of National Home Growing School Feeding Program especially in the rural areas of the country. Education of the rural women folks should be taken importantly by governments and NGOs as they are the one directly taking care of children wellbeing. Government, NGOs and  Community groups should Journal of the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Imo State University Owerri also provide the basic  amenities like portable water supply and sanitation facilities in the rural areas so as to curb the incidence of diseases and malnutrition.

Keywords: National Home Grown School Feeding Program, Nutritional Status, Health, Malnutrition
Analysis of women farmers’ involvement in organic farming of maize in Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State
Authors: Okoroh Juochi P. , Ejike R.D.
Published: June 2020

The study analysed women farmers’ involvement in organic farming of maize in Ohaji-egbema, local government area of Imo state, Nigeria. It  specifically described the socio-economic characteristics of women organic maize farmers, identified the organic practices engaged by women maize farmers, ascertained women farmers’ level of involvement in organic farming of maize and identified the constraints militating against  organic production of maize among farmers in the study area. Data for the study were collected from 80 women organic farmers through a multistage sampling procedure using structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used for the analysis of the data generated. Results revealed that the majority (98.75%) had formal education with a mean age of 55 years. Investigation on the organic practices showed that women in organic maize farming practiced more of intercropping (98.8%), shifting cultivation (85%) as well as animal manure (54%). Result on the level of involvement showed that 52.5% of the farmers were moderately (6-10 organic practices) involved in organic farming. Lack of certification and distinction between organic and inorganic products in the market (82.5%) were the major constraints. farming experience, income, educational level and household size were significant and positively related to women involvement in organic farming at 5% level of significance. It  was concluded that women are moderately involved in organic farming of maize in the study area. The study therefore recommends that there should be promotion for distinction of organic products in the market. Also the study recommends that the federal Government should enact a  policy that will promote organic farming and their certification.

Key words: Organic farming, maize farmers, involvement.
Analysis of postharvest losses in mango marketing in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Chiebonam Onyia Chukwuemeka , Jaachima Chiemela Chinedum , Chidimma Joseph Deborah
Published: June 2020

The study analyzed the postharvest losses in mango marketing in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. Data for the study were  collected from 120 respondents in four different markets (Modern, Wurukum, Railway and Northbank market), through the use of structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis and likert scale rating technique were used to analyze the data. The finding showed that the mean age of the marketers was 36.1 years, mean household size was 6.0, majority (43.3%) of the marketers completed secondary school, majority (88.3%) of the respondents were females, majority were married with a percentage of (63.3%), also majority (56.7%) of the marketers sold broken variety of mango. The result further indicated that the amount of basket of mango bought is significant at 5% level of probability and positively affects the number of 7litre buckets of mango lost. Finally, the constraints with the highest mean values suggested the most essential constraints. The result showed that high degree of perishability (mean=3.8), lack of storage facility (mean=3.6), and inadequate grading and standardization (mean=2.9) were some of the major constraints. The study therefore recommends that efficient storage facilities  should be made available to mango marketers in order to encourage large purchase of the produce and decrease postharvest losses government should rehabilitate the bad roads and create good road networks to solve the transportation problems of marketers, lastly, there should be  provision of processing plant in strategic locations by the governments or non-governmental organization which will help to reduce postharvest losses.

Keywords: Mango, Post harvest loss, Markudi LGA
We have got to up our game substantially for forests, carbon, biodiversity, and ultimately people
Authors: Waeber Patrick O. , Wilmé Lucienne
Published: June 2020

No Abstract.
Dynamic Analysis of Series-Connected and Mechanically-Coupled Twin Synchronous Motor Drive
Authors: Onwuka I.K. , Diyoke G.C. , Obe E.S.
Published: June 2020

Series-connection of the stator windings of electric motors could serve a number of purposes, including load balancing between two synchronous motors. This paper modeled and analyzed a drive system of two separate three-phase synchronous motors whose stator windings are series- connected by a unique stator winding scheme, and whose shafts are mechanically coupled to a common load shaft through a speed reduction gear driven through the pinions of the respective motors. The mathematical model is developed in detail, and the system is simulated using MATLAB/SIMULINK. It is observed that for the case of a balanced load on the respective shafts of the two motors, the dynamic behavior of the two motors are identical. It is further observed that with the particular stator winding arrangement giving rise to six-windings per motor unit, each motor is essentially a three-phase motor and may be operated direct on line (DOL).

Keywords: Common load shaft; DOL; series-connected stator windings; synchronous motors, six-winding machine
A study on stakeholder’s satisfaction of using Education Business Management Information Systems (EBMIS) tool in the University of Rwanda
Authors: Mugeni Diane , NagoorMeera Shaik , Banamwana Celestin
Published: June 2020

A study aimed to investigate the role of the Education Business Management Information Systems (EBMIS) tool plays in the operation and  management of the University of Rwanda focusing on staff and students. We carried out a mixed-method study in five colleges of the University of Rwanda including headquarters targeting students and staff. On the one hand, the study finds out that through EBMIS, timely application and registration online were good services whereby 25.7 % of students and 27% of staff were satisfied with the services respectively. The 10.7 % of students highlighted that Information technology is able to check the history of the payment process of tuition fees and 8.8% were able to access the passing modules. In addition, 55.8% of students failed to use the system during registration and application during holidays. Consequently,  students come to the registration offices for assistance by staff in each college, which is costing, and time-consuming. On the other hand, the  majority of staff met the difficulties of using the EBMIS to render services in between as well as to the students due to the low skills on the system. Therefore, the students’ big lines in front of offices such as offices of Collegesꞌ registrar and repeatable claims from students are still unavoidable.  Hence, the use of EBMIS is not common practice in the whole services of the colleges in University of Rwanda. About, the knowledge gap, 56 % of staff do not know Information Technology System and hence 77% have not been trained at all on Information Technology System, among the  trained staff, 55.1 % used at least 20% of EBMIS. The findings of the study showed that the Information Technology System is under exploitation at the University of Rwanda. However, the management of all data information from merged colleges is still critical due to the lack of technical skills  and knowledge among users. Although, the University of Rwanda supports students and staff to explore this system through pieces of training in-country and abroad. Yet, there is still a big gap in skills of efficiency using the EBMIS and therefore, its productivity is still sub-standard.

Keywords: Information Technology (IT), students, staffs, service delivery, operation
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MANAGEMENT OF HOUSEHOLD WASTE WITHDIARCIAN EVENTS IN CHILDREN AT SINDANG BARANG BOGOR
Authors: Bunga Oktora Bunga
Published: June 2020

Diarrhea causes 801,000 child deaths each year or kills 2,195 children per day. Environmental factors also determine the good and bad health of a person and the community, one of which is garbage disposal (waste management). Based on a preliminary study conducted by researchers in the Sindang Barang Village of 10 housewives who have children under five, all have experienced diarrhea. As for the management of household waste from 10 housewives surveyed there are 2 housewives with good household waste management and 8 housewives with poor household waste management. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between household waste management and the incidence of diarrhea in toddlers in Sindang Barang Village, Bogor City in 2017. This type of research is a quantitative analytic study with a cross-sectional design and a cross-sectional approach. The method of sampling in this study uses the technique of cluster sampling with a sample of 301 respondents. Data collection was obtained through questionnaires. Based on the results of the study showed that of 301 respondents there is good household waste management as many as 128 respondents (42.5%) toddlers without diarrhea and 8 respondents (2.66%) diarrhea toddlers. The statistical test results with asignificance level of α 0.005 to obtain a p value of 0,000 <0.005 and a closeness value of -0.456. So that,it can be concluded that there is a relationship between household waste management and the incidence of diarrhea in infants in Sindang Barang KotaBogor in 2017. At least, good household waste management can prevent diarrheal diseases in infants,and this researchis expected for educational institutions and local governments as well as the community can improved orupdatedtheirinformation about waste management and diarrhea events, so as to strive to apply the waste management stage correctly and have an impact improving the quality of public health and decreasing cases of diarrhea in infants.
THE ANALYSIS OF FACTORS RELATED TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PREGNANT EXERCISE AT PUSKESMAS
Authors: Siti Hanifatun Fajria Hani , Annisa Dwi Yuniastari Annisa
Published: June 2020

During pregnancy, pregnant women would usually have complaints. Moderated exercise such as pregnancy exercise would make your feet and heels more comfortable. Percentage of antenatal care in health centers of West Navan especially for K1 and K4 already met the target of 95% . The purpose of this studied is analysis of factors associated with the implementation of the health center pregnancy exercise in Navan western region in 2013. This researched used analytic studied with cross -sectional correlation. The population in this study were all pregnant women in the region checkups Navan West Health Center in 2012 as many as 871 pregnant women then took sample of 59 samples using accidental sampling methode. Analyzed used univariate and bivariate analysis with the chi square test. These results it could be concluded that most of the samples have a relatively good knowledge (67.8 %), good attitude (69.5 %) , not working (55.9 %) , support pregnant women during pregnancy (67.8 %) and doing pregnancy exercise (71.2 %). Thechi-square statistical test found no relationship between knowledge , attitude and family support with the implementation of the pregnancy exercise with each value p = 0.005 , p = 0.001 and p = 0.005 then found that there was no relationship between job execution pregnancy exercise with p = 0.362.