bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALYSIS OF THE DETERMINANTS FOOD INSECURITY AND POVERTY STATUS AMONG FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN OSUN STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: J O AMAO , G E FANIFOSI
Published: August 2018

Poverty and food shortage form the basis of food insecurity in the world, and this is well pronounced in sub-Sahara Africa where most farming households live on less than US$1.25perday. A multistage random sampling procedure was used to select and interview 276 households. Data collected were analysed through the use of descriptive statistics, Foster, Greer and Thorbecke (FGT, 1984) poverty and food insecurity indices and Multinomial logit regression model.The study revealed that most of the respondents were older and aged between 51-60 years with a mean age of 55 years. Most of the farmers were married 79.85%, the mean households size was approximately 7 members. Also, during post harvesting season, households size (1%), home food production 1% and food-away-from-home 1% were positively significant which implied that a unit increase in households size, home production and food-away-from home, the probability of households to be food insecure/non-poor, food insecure/poor respectively will increase relative to food secure/non-poor, while in postplanting season, households size 1%, income 1%, farm size 5%, infrequently non-food expenditure 1% and food-away-from-home 1% were significant, this implied that in a unit increase in households size, income, infrequent non-food expenditure and food-away-from home, the probability of households to be food insecure/non-poor, food insecure/poor respectively will increase relative to food secure/non-poor. The study concluded that male headed households with small holding farm size, spending much on food-away-from-home and too much non-food expenditure might lead to food insecurity and poverty in the study area.
Evaluation of 14 Accessions of Amaranthus cruentus for Production of Early Vegetative Yield
Authors: Oyekale Kehinde oluwaseun
Published: August 2018

The present study was conducted to identify cultivar(s) of Amaranthus cruentus with the ability for production of vegetative yield within a short period of growth. A total of fourteen accessions of Amaranthus Cruentus were evaluated at 4weeks, 6weeks, 8weeks and 10weeks after planting (WAP) for plant height, leaf number, fresh and dry weights of leaves, stem and branches to measure the relative performance of the accessions. The experiment was planted, using a randomized complete block design (RCBD), with the Amaranthus cruentus as the treatment. The result showed significant differences in all the traits evaluated at each harvest period. The result also indicates significant variation in the ability of the accessions for early and rapid production of early vegetative yield. Three potentially suitable accessions BAM18, BAM 13, and BAM 22 were identified based on their outstanding performances at 4WAP and 6WAP harvest. Further field trial is required before they can be recommended for commercial production by farmers.Keywords: Vegetative Yield, Accessions, Cultivars, Traits.
ASSESSMENT OF SOME ABIOTIC FACTORS ON MICROBIAL BIOPRODUCTS USEFUL IN BIOCONTROL OF PHYTOPATHOGENS
Authors: Fendrihan Sergiu , Dinu Sorina , Sicuia Oana Alina , Constantinescu Florica
Published: August 2018

The environmental factors may influence the growth of microorganisms, by favoring their growth or slowing their multiplication rate and the synthesis of different metabolites. Parameters such as temperature, aeration, nutrients, pH or tolerance to NaCl can become limiting factors for microorganisms survival. Bacillus subtilis and related species can grow in variable pH conditions, maintaining the cytoplasmically pH in a relatively close range, stable to the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids.The aim of this work was to assess the influence of some abiotic factors on the biocontrol activity of microbial bioproducts, based on beneficial strains from Bacillus sp.. The bioproducts were tested in vitro against soil borne fungi at different temperatures and pH conditions. The results showed that the antagonistic activity of the biopreparates, tested at 27Â°C and 25Â°C, against phytopathogenic fungi released antifungal metabolites which inhibited the fungal growth. Also, when different pH values were analyzed, the results reflected that at pH 5.5 and pH 8.5 the bioproducts maintained the same antagonistic effect as in the control variant (pH 7.0).
A newly innovated UV-Pit-Light trap efficacy for sampling beetles within oil palm plantations of various age stand types
Authors: Ahmad khair Ahmad Bukhary
Published: August 2018

A newly innovated UV-Pit-Light trap specific for trapping beetle species within oil palm plantations is described and the results of experiments on its efficacies that were carried out within different oil palm age stands are presented. The UV-Pit-Light trap is made of two parts: a lower located 1-L plastic collection container inserted into the ground, 6V fast recharging lead-acid battery and 4-W miniature UV-bulb attached to electronic device with wire clips, with the upper located plastic stool for the basic stand and the wide plastic basin for rain and light shield. The UV-Pit-Light trap caught significantly higher beetle specimens, which also included several morphospecies from the common beetle families found in oil palm plantations with 1.5 to 2 times higher in abundances including Nitidulidae, Curculionidae, Scarabaeidae, and Tenebrionidae. Rare beetle families of Aderidae, Cerambycidae, Histeridae, and Lagriidae, which not to be found in passive pitfall trap, were caught in considerable abundances in the UV-Pit-Light trap. The short electro-magnetic wavelengths of UV-light source included many closely packed epigeal related micro-habitats, which makes the UV-Pit-Light trap specific for sampling beetles specifically related within micro-habitats of various oil palm age stand types. The use of only four units of UV-Pit-Light trap compared with 100 units of passive pitfall trap is adequate for sampling beetle species community which includes both the common and uncommon families, and include two times higher for the most abundant and common species than the passive pitfall trap. Thus, the UV-Pit-Light trap allows accurate and unbiased diversity and ecological evaluations of beetle species and proposed to be the specific trapping system for insect species dwelling within the epigeal related micro-habitats oil palm plantations.Â
Risk Assessment and Accumulation of Metals in Sediment of Koycegiz Lagoon System, Turkey
Authors: GENC Tuncer Okan , YILMAZ Fevzi
Published: August 2018

This paper focuses on metal (Cr, Cu, Pb, Mn and Zn) accumulation and degree of contamination in the sediments of the Koycegiz Lagoon Systems. Pollution by these metals was examined using several calculation methods: pollution load index (PLI), contamination factor (CF), geoaccumulation index (lgeo) and enrichment factors (EF). The mean value of contamination factor (CF) for Pb, Cu, Zn, Mn metals showed low degree of contamination (CF < 1), whereas Cr showed considerably degree (3CF< 6). Higher PLI values were observed in sampling sites III where discharge point of waste water and the PLI values indicated that Cr is the major contributors to the sediment pollution. Average lgeo values of analyzed metals (except Cr) indicating uncontaminated to moderately contaminated status of the sediment whereas the Igeo values for Cr indicates moderately to strongly contaminated status. For most of the sites EF of the studied metals were lower than 1 indicating there is not intense human influence to the metal pollution in sediments.
A comparative appraisal of urea super granule application in raised bed and prilled urea application in conventional planting for transplanted boro rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Bhuyan Halim Mahmud , Ferdousi Most. Razina , Toufiq Iqbal Mohammad , Hasan Ahmed Khairul
Published: August 2018

Utilization of urea super granule (USG) with raised bed cultivation system for transplanted boro (winter, irrigated) rice production is a major concern now days. A field experiment was conducted in the chuadanga district of Bangladesh to compare the two cultivation methods: deep placement of USG on raised bed with boro rice, and prilled urea (PU) broadcasting in conventional planting. Results showed that USG in raised bed planting increased grain yields of transplanted boro rice by up to 18.18% over PU in conventional planting. Deep placement of USG in raised bed planting increased the number of panicle m-2, number of grains panicle-1 and 1000-grains weight of boro rice than the PU in conventional planting. Better plant growth was observed by deep placement of USG in raised bed planting compared to PU in conventional planting. Sterility percentage and weed infestation were lower on USG in raised bed planting compared to the PU in conventional planting methods. Forty seven percent irrigation water and application time could be saved by USG in raised bed planting than PU in conventional planting. Deep placement of USG in bed saved N fertilizer consumption over conventional planting. Water use efficiency for grain and biomass production was higher with deep placement of USG in bed planting than the PU broadcasting in conventional planting methods. Similarly, agronomic efficiency of N fertilizer by USG in bed planting was significantly higher than the PU broadcasting in conventional planting. This study concluded that deep placement of USG in raised bed planting for transplanted boro rice is a new approach to achieve fertilizer and water use efficiency as well as higher yield and less water input compared to existing agronomic practices in Bangladesh.
Farm Machinery Breakdown Classification – Seed drills
Authors: ALSUHAIBANI SALEH A.
Published: August 2018

Work job orders for 196 seed drills collected by HADCO (Hail Agricultural Development Company), Saudi Arabia, were used in this study. The work job orders were classified in terms of the parts used and the cost of each item. Distribution of repair and maintenance as listed in the work-job orders was classified as repairs by 55% while 45% was found to be maintenance. Moreover, Classification of repair and maintenance for parts of seed drills was 66% for rapair jobs and 34% for manitinance jobs. Cost ratio term was developed, by dividing the repair or maintenance cost by the seed drill purchase price. The results indicate that the average cost ratio was affected by annual working area. Also repair and maintenance cost decreased as increasing the number of seed drills every year, and due to the increasing number of working area, the costs increased after about 430 ha/year.
Cloning, expression, and enzymatic activity analysis of strawberry S-adenosyl-L-metnionine synthetase gene FaSAMS1
Authors: Wang Shu-Fang , Hua Li-Na , Liu Xiaofeng , Shen Yuanyue
Published: August 2018

The S-adenosyl methionine synthetase gene FaSAMS1 is involved in the regulation of strawberry fruit ripening, however, the biochemical properties of FaSAMS1 protein remain unclear. Here, a coding cDNA sequence of FaSAMS1 was cloned by RT-PCR and inserted into a recombinant yeast expression vector pPICZA, then transformed into the yeast expression strain X-33. The fusion protein FaSAMS1 was induced, expressed, and purified. The enzymatic activity analysis of FaSAMS1 showed that the reaction system contains 0.09 mg of FaSAMS1, protein concentration reached at 0.454 mgÂ·mL-1, the activity of the enzyme was 0.32 U, specific activity was 3.56 UÂ·mg-1. This study has provided biochemical evidence for the involvement of ethylene in the regulation of strawberry fruit ripening.Â
Understanding and Building on Indigenous Agro-Pastoral Adaptation strategies for Climate Change in Sub-Saharan Africa: Experiences from Rural Cameroon
Authors: Azibo Balgah Roland , Kimengsi Jude Ndzifon , Buchenrieder Gertrud
Published: August 2018

Rural communities in the Sub-Sahara African region have become focal points for climate adaptation especially in the agricultural sector. This is due to their significant involvement in agro-pastoral activities which constitute the lifeblood of most of the economies of this region, with about 85% of the indigenous populations relying on it for their survival. Both long and short term climatic oscillations have succeeded, and will continue to disrupt crop and livestock output thus signaling threats to food security. Although the communities have either consciously or unconsciously made use of some indigenous adaptation strategies, they are judged to be weak at the moment. This requires the designation of context-specific agro-pastoral adaptation frameworks. Using focus group discussions (FGDs) of 6 agro-pastoral groups (10 representatives each) in this region, complemented by content analysis, field surveys and the extensive review of literature on case studies for other SSA communities, we analyze current indigenous adaptation mechanisms in the agro-pastoral sector and attempt to construct an indigenous adaptation framework for rural agro-pastoral communities in Cameroon. Our analysis of data leads us to conclude that current adaptation measures rely mainly on crop diversification and mixed farming. Although these methods are good, the scale of operation and the degree of diversification is still low to climate-proof the agro-pastoral sector. Furthermore, these changes are introduced in the midst of poor farming practices such as slash and burn and related systems. Current indigenous adaptation strategies are weak and are correlated with income levels, level of farmers involvement in organizations, knowledge and perception. We recommend the effective engagement of agro-pastoral stakeholders as key in developing an adaptable framework, based on their knowledge of current adaptation strategies.
Meat and Bone Characteristics of Broiler Chickens Fed Groundnut Cake-Based Diets as Affected by Graded Dietary Supplements of Crystalline L- Lysine and DL- Methionine
Authors: Ogunwole Olugbenga Adeniran , Majekodunmi B. C , Faboyede R. A , Ogunsiji D.
Published: August 2018

Effects of supplemental dietary lysine and methionine in a Groundnut Cake (GNC) based diets on meat and bone characteristics of broiler chickens were investigated. In a completely randomized design, a total of 168 one - day â€“ old Arbor acre broiler chicks were randomly allocated to seven dietary treatments each in triplicate of eight birds per replicate. The Seven starter and finishersâ€™ diets were: GNC based diets without any amino acid (lysine or methionine) supplementation (T1); GNC diet + 0.2% lysine (T2); GNC diet + 0.4% lysine (T3); GNC diet + 0.2% methionine (T4); GNC diet + 0.4% methionine (T5); GNC diet + 0.2 lysine and 0.2% methionine (T6) and GNC diet + 0.4% lysine and 0.4% methionine (T7). Experimental diets and water were offered to birds ad libitum in an experiment lasting six-week. At day 42, two birds per replicate were slaughtered, meat and bone characteristics determined. There were significant variations (P<0.05) in the crude protein (%) and ether extract (%), pH1 and pH2 of meat. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances composition of meat at days 0, 5, and 10 were similar (P<0.05) and were not affected by dietary amino acid supplementation. Tibiotarsal index (mg/mm) of bone (22.10, 27.25, 33.35, 31.40, 28.70, 31.45 and 29.75 for broilers on T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T7, respectively) were increased significantly (P<0.05) by amino acid supplementation. Significantly differences (P<0.05) were observed in the calcium, phosphorus and potassium (%) contents of broilersâ€™ bone across treatments. Supplemental lysine and both lysine and methionine improved meat quality and bone development of broiler chickens in this study.
Effects of Nitrogen Management on Garlic Yield, Economic Benefit and Soil Apparent Nutrient Balance
Authors: Bo Luji , Zhang Yingpeng , Li Yan , Luo Jiafa , Sun Ming , Zhong Ziwen , Jing Yongping
Published: August 2018

An experiment was conducted on garlic (Allium sativum L.) to investigate the effects of nitrogen management on yield, economic benefit and the soil apparent nutrient balance, in the region of Laiwu town in Shandong province, China. The treatments included control (no N fertilizer), urea at 300 kg/ha, urea at 240 kg/ha, combined urea and commercial organic fertilizers at 120 kg N /ha each, and controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer at 192 kg N /ha. Results showed no significant difference both for garlic bulb yield and economic benefits between the urea treatments at different N application rates. The effect of the combined use of urea and organic fertilizer was similar to that of the urea application at the same N application rate. However, garlic bulb yields in the treatment of controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer were significantly higher than in the other fertilizer treatments, even the N application rate was lower. The net income from garlic in the treatment of controlled release fertilizer was also significantly higher than those in the other treatments. There was N surplus after the garlic growth season when urea was applied at 300 kg/ha, while there was N, P and K deficit when the controlled-release N fertilizer at 192 kg/ha was used to produce more garlic. It is suggested that use of controlled release N fertilizer combined with a supplement of other nutrients would be a sustainable strategy for fertilizer management in garlic production.
Micro-habitats Utilizations, Feeding Niche Overlapping, and Management Systems Impacts on Community Tolerances of Wasp Species within Oil Palm Plantations.
Authors: Ahmad khair Ahmad Bukhary , Ruslan M. Y. , Mohd. Fauzi M. M , Noorhisham H. , Nicholas S. , Fahmi M. H. Muhamad , Izfa Riza H. , Idris A. B
Published: August 2018

A study on micro-habitats utilizations, feeding niche overlapping, and management systems impacts pertaining to hymenopteran community were evaluated at five chosen oil palm age stands within FELDA Sungai Tekam oil palm plantations, Pahang.Â  Samplings were done within the duration of one year, employing the standard Malaise traps, starting from February 2013 till February 2014, involving both hot and wet seasons. 60 species, from 17 families and 35 subfamilies were successfully collected during the sampling periods. Eight defined micro-habitats were elaborated, with the subdivisions of major, minor, stable, and risky micro-habitat types. Management systems impacts were associated with the applications of chemical herbicides and fertilizers. Species groups were formed using Two-Way Hierarchical Cluster Dendrogram, following 75% of information remaining. Three species groups were formed for hot and wet seasons respectively, with the first group involved nearly half of the overall hymenopteran community. Beneficial nectariferous plants, heaps of chipped rotting oil palm trunks, and remnants of rotting forest logs were all the prominent micro-habitats associated will all cases of hymenopteran species groups, for both cases of major and minor micro-habitat types. Application of BASTA, Glyphosate-Type-A and Type-B herbicides, as well as NK-Mix, Borax, and GML chemical fertilizers were all highly correlated with hymenopteran species groups, showing the high tolerance of most hymenopteran species towards the employed management systems, with reference to minor micro-habitats. Strong feeding ecological niches and plexus values between species of similar species groups formed were specifically associated with discrete but connected minor micro-habitats with weaker food chains, collectively forming larger stable food webs within major micro-habitats. Suggestions on maintaining minor micro-habitats for the survival of most hymenopteran community, as well as the sustenance of their food sources were also discussed.Â
Micro-habitats Utilizations, Feeding Niche Overlapping, and Management Systems Impacts on Community Tolerances of Wasp Species within Oil Palm Plantations.
Authors: Bukhary, A.K. Ahmad , Ruslan M. Y.
Published: August 2018

A study on micro-habitats utilizations, feeding niche overlapping, and management systems impacts pertaining to hymenopteran community were evaluated at five chosen oil palm age stands within FELDA Sungai Tekam oil palm plantations, Pahang.  Samplings were done within the duration of one year, employing the standard Malaise traps, starting from February 2013 till February 2014, involving both hot and wet seasons. 60 species, from 17 families and 35 subfamilies were successfully collected during the sampling periods. Eight defined micro-habitats were elaborated, with the subdivisions of major, minor, stable, and risky micro-habitat types. Management systems impacts were associated with the applications of chemical herbicides and fertilizers. Species groups were formed using Two-Way Hierarchical Cluster Dendrogram, following 75% of information remaining. Three species groups were formed for hot and wet seasons respectively, with the first group involved nearly half of the overall hymenopteran community. Beneficial nectariferous plants, heaps of chipped rotting oil palm trunks, and remnants of rotting forest logs were all the prominent micro-habitats associated will all cases of hymenopteran species groups, for both cases of major and minor micro-habitat types. Application of BASTA, Glyphosate-Type-A and Type-B herbicides, as well as NK-Mix, Borax, and GML chemical fertilizers were all highly correlated with hymenopteran species groups, showing the high tolerance of most hymenopteran species towards the employed management systems, with reference to minor micro-habitats. Strong feeding ecological niches and plexus values between species of similar species groups formed were specifically associated with discrete but connected minor micro-habitats with weaker food chains, collectively forming larger stable food webs within major micro-habitats. Suggestions on maintaining minor micro-habitats for the survival of most hymenopteran community, as well as the sustenance of their food sources were also discussed.
BORON INCREASES THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF MUNGBEAN
Authors: Ali Muhammad Asghar
Published: August 2018

Pulses have significant role in the profitability of agriculture because of major proportion of our population depends on it due to its higher nutritional value, rich source of protein and low price. Pulses are also important component of animal feed and their dried straw is used as hay. In pulses, mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) is a vital crop. Boron has positive effect on growth and development, nitrogen assimilation and root growth. Low level of boron causes negative impact on growth, narrow leave expansion, restricted root elongation and morphological features of mungbean plant.
Overview of sugarcane chain in Brazil
Authors: Kalaki Rafael Bordonal , Neves Marcos Fava , Trombin VinÃ­cius Gustavo
Published: August 2018

In 2013, Brazil was the world's largest producer of sugar cane with a share of 39.4%. The aim of this paper is to present a method for mapping and quantification of productive chains and discuss the results of this method in the sugar cane chain in Brazil. To achieve this, was applied the method CHAINPlan which was developed by Prof. Marcos Fava Neves in 2004 focusing in strategic planning and management of agribusiness systems. The complete overview of a chain is justified by bringing greater transparency to the sector, clarifying myths and adding value to the image of the chain. The sugar cane chains GDP was US$ 43.4 billion, equivalent to 2% of brazilian GDP or almost the overall economic output produced in a country like Paraguay, North Korea, Afghanistan, Jamaica and Estonia. Total gross revenue (financial movement of a chain in a year) of the sugar cane chain was about US$ 107.7 billion. The values presented here do not represent a census, but the attempt to estimate the gross value of production. This data serves as input for public and private decision-making, showing who participates, the interconnecting links among chain participants and the industrys capacity to generate resources, taxes, and jobs.
Sperm evaluation in strains of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Almeida Diones Bender , Costa Marco André Paldes , Bassini Liane Ney , Calabuig Cecilia Irene Pérez , Moreira Carla GiovaneÁvila , Rodrigues Marília Danyelle Nunes , Junior Antonio Sergio Varela , Corcini Carine Dahl , Dode Maria Eduarda Bicca , Moreira Heden Luiz Marques
Published: August 2018

The reproductive characteristics of tilapia species used for large-scale production is critically important for breeding management. Although Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is one of the most cultivated species globally, little is known about its sperm characteristics. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the reproductive parameters of three tilapia strains before and after cryopreservation. Nile tilapia specimens from three strains, Supreme (SUP), Premium Aquabel (PA), and Chitralada (CHI) (90 specimens in total, 30 from each strain), were examined. All morphometric measurements were highest in PA. CHI had the highest sperm motility and speed, although less than half the sperm concentration of SUP. PA had a similar sperm speed and concentration to CHI, although its sperm motility was similar to that of SUP. SUP had a relatively high sperm viability and higher percentages of sperm without dislocation than PA and CHI. However, all strains showed similar rectilinear dislocation. Except for PA DNA integrity, SUP showed the best results before cryopreservation. From the results it was not possible to identify an ideal marker for semen quality, due to the differences observed between specimens from the same fish. However, the results regarding efficient sperm cryopreservation in the present study are important for the genetic screening and development of these strains in aquaculture.
Estimating nitrogen contents of apple leaves based on hyperspectral parameter models at different phenophases
Authors: ZHU Xicun , WANG Zhuoyuan , GAO Lulu , ZHAO Gengxing , WANG Ling
Published: August 2018

The objective of the paper is to explore the best phenophase for estimating the nitrogen contents of apple leaves, to establish the best estimation model of the hyperspectral data at different phenophases. It is to improve the apple trees precise fertilization and production management. The experiments were done in 20 orchards in the field, measured hyperspectral data and nitrogen contents of apple leaves at three phenophases in two years, which were shoot growth phenophase, spring shoots pause growth phenophase, autumn shoots pause growth phenophase. The study analyzed the nitrogen contents of apple leaves with its original spectral and first derivative, screened sensitive wavelengths of each phenophase. The hyperspectral parameters were built with the sensitive wavelengths. Multiple stepwise regressions, partial least squares and BP neural network model were adopted in the study. The results showed that 551 nm, 716 nm, 530 nm, 703 nm; 543 nm, 705 nm, 699 nm, 756 nm and 545 nm, 702 nm, 695 nm, 746 nm were sensitive wavelengths of three phenophases. R551+R716, R551*R716, FDR530+FDR703, FDR530*FDR703; R543+R705, R543*R705, FDR699+FDR756, FDR699*FDR756and R545+R702, R545*R702, FDR695+FDR746, FDR695*FDR746 were the best hyperspectral parameters of each phenophase. Of all the estimation models, the estimated effect of shoot growth phenophase was better than other two phenophases, so shoot growth phenophase was the best phenophase to estimate the nitrogen contents of apple leaves based on hyperspectral models. In the three models, the 4-3-1 BP neural network model of shoot growth phenophase was the best estimation model. The R2 of estimated value and measured value was 0.6307, RE% was 23.37, RMSE was 0.6274.
Time of Fusarium inoculation and post-anthesis temperature stress affect FHB severity and DON concentration in winter wheat
Authors: Okereke Victor , Jones Hannah , Gooding Mike
Published: August 2018

Two pot experiments were conducted using elite lines and near isogenic lines (NILs) of winter wheat in a controlled environment to evaluate the effect of time of inoculation and subsequent increase in temperature during grain-filling on Fusarium head blight (FHB) and deoxynivalenol (DON) on the infected wheat grains. The experiments were a complete factorial combination with randomised replicates. Fusarium graminearum was used to spray inoculate wheat spikes at glume loose (GL). GL was established when the lower glume could be opened with a thumbnail. Fusarium inoculation was done at glume loose (GL+0), 4 and 8 days after (GL+4 and GL+8), respectively. Pots transferred to controlled environment cabinets set at 23/15oC or 28/20oC. Results reveal that FHB severity showed a significant (P<0.05) cultivar and temperature interaction in both elite and near isogenic lines. High temperature increased FHB severity by 35% in the NILs. DON concentration showed cultivar sensitive in both sets of cultivars. Inoculation at GL+4 which corresponded with the mid-anthesis gave the highest FHB severity and DON concentration in NILs, while the elite cultivars showed cultivar sensitive to DON accumulation regardless of the time of Fusarium inoculation.
PROFITABILITY OF CROP PRODUCTION UNDER THE KANO RIVER IRRIGATION PROJECT, NORTHERN, NIGERIA
Authors: Yakubu Abdullahi Abbas , Baba K.M. , Mohammed I.
Published: August 2018

Four major crops rice, maize, wheat and tomato were examined in the Kano River Irrigation Project. The project was divided into 3 sections; the head, middle and tail ends. One hundred farmers were randomly selected from each sections making a total of 300 hundred farmers. Net farm income, and profitability index were used to assess the profitability of the enterprises. It was concluded Rice, maize, and wheat were profitable while tomato was unprofitable that year attributable to market glut and perishability of the crop. It was recommended that storage facilities be provided by both private and government agencies to curtail the losses incurred by the farmers.
Phenological and Physiological Study of Six Cultivars of Ziziphus spp. Planted in Basra Province- Iraq.
Authors: Mayahi Manal Zbary Al
Published: August 2018

This study was conducted in a private orchard at Abu Al Khasib area in Basra province â€“ Iraq, during the growing season (2013), to evaluate six cultivars of Ziziphus spp. Plant, phenologically and physiologically. The results confirmed a difference among the cultivars in some phenological characteristics, and a similarity in others. While in physiological characteristics, and a similarity in others. While in physiological characteristics the study showed a significant superiority of the Toffahi cultivar in its length, diameter and weight of fruits (4.00 cm, 3.26 cm and 7.30 g.) respectively and in its fruit dry weight percentage (42.38 %), while the Hindi cultivar was superior in the T.S.S., water content and phenols percentages (17.22, 67.36 and 2.21 %) respectively. But the Laimoni cultivar was superior in leaf area, adjustable total acidity percentage and calcium pectate percentage (6.78 cm2, 0.81 % and 4.57%) respectively. While Bathri cultivar was significantly superior in total chlorophyll content (3.36 mg. 100-1 fresh weight). Whilst the rest of cultivars showed a variable differences among them.
EFFECT OF INTERCROPPING ON YIELD OF MAIZE HYBRIDS WITH MUNGBEAN
Authors: Khan Shahid Raza , Ali Muhammad Asghar , Ali Dr Amjed , Ali Raja Shafqat , Qamar Jamshaid , Saleem Muhammad Tariq
Published: August 2018

Maize (Zea mays L.) occupied the third place mainly cereal/ fodder produce in the world. Maize gained a chief place in the many cropping pattern of Pakistan. Intercropping is economically beneficial and favorable for the fertility restoration of land. Intercropping of maize with mungbean increased water use efficiency, light use efficiency as well as nutrient use efficiency which positively affect the different yield as well as agronomic parameters like plant height, number of grain row per cob, cobs length, cob girth, thousand grain weight, total dry matter and seed yield which ultimately increases the final yield.
FARMERS PERCEPTION AND THE HIGHLIGHTS OFTHE SOURCES OF THE CHRONIC AFLATOXIN CONTAMINATION AMONGST THE INHABITANTS OF THE SOUTH-EASTERN REGION INKENYA
Authors: Kuisa Rhoda N. , N. Kimatu Josphert , I. Kanui Titus
Published: August 2018

There are factors that contribute to aflatoxin contamination like conducive ecological zones, stressed crops, virulent Aspergillus strains and unconventional agricultural practices. Kenyans especially in the South-Eastern region are exposed to regular doses of mycotoxins. Even after campaigns on aflatoxin mitigation in 2004, this region has had continuous cases of aflatoxin poisoning. These have not been systematically studied to identify the key entry points and contributory factors. This research was instituted to evaluate the farmers perception of the factors which contribute to chronic aflatoxin contamination in maize grains along the pre-harvest, post-harvest and marketing stages of the production chain. We studied the moisture content of maize on seven major highway centers and found that the maize was largely within the accepted levels of moisture of 11-14%.  The agri-practices investigated showed that most farmers knew the basic standard practices but were not consistent in adhering to them. We found 88%approved that close spacing of maize can stress crop, 87% agreed that poor farm plant nutrition causes stress, 78 % agreed that plant residue act as reservoirsfor fungi. It was remarkable that 95 % of farmers agreed that delayed harvesting and storing of grains when the moisture content is more than 13% encouraged growth of the fungus was the main contributor of aflatoxin contamination. Furthermore, 91% indicated that, if maize combs were dropped on the soil during harvest, it increased the chances of fungal contamination. 80% of farmers agreed that the use of plastic bags to store maize in combs after harvesting could cause contamination. However, most farmers could not adequately relate contamination with the health repercussions of aflatoxin contamination. Hence, there is need to train and constantly contact understandable-sensitizations of all stakeholders; farmers, extension staff, researchers, traders, consumers, on the dangers of aflatoxin contamination along the whole maize production chain.
THE ROLE OF SMART SPECIALISATION IN IMPROVING THE COMPETITIVENESS OF THE FOOD SECTOR IN POLAND
Authors: Szwacka Joanna , Miara Adam
Published: August 2018

Company growth depends on competitiveness and innovation, which are largely contingent on the scale and scope of research and development undertaken. In the new EU financial framework for 2014-2020, R&D funding is contingent on compliance with research planned with regional smart specialisations. The article reviews the literature on factors in competitiveness, as well as the importance of smart specialisation in shaping the development of the food sector in Poland. The main objective of the article is to present the role and importance of smart specialisation for companies in the food industry seeking to build a competitive position.
STUDIES ON THE CULTIVATION OF THE STRAWBERRY UNDER THE LIGHT TRANSMISSION TYPE SOLAR CELL CONDITION
Authors: Tanaka Takayuki , Kinouchi Hitoshi , Akutsu Masako
Published: August 2018

We examined the cultivation of the strawberry under the light transmission type solar cell (panel) condition that absorbs the ultraviolet light for electricity, and passes ca. 20% of visible light from 400nm to 800nm for photosynthesis. Though the color of leaves under the solar cell was lighter than that under control area, the length and width of the leaves were not so different among the treatments. On the other hand, the number of honeybees visiting flowers and SSC were significantly correlated with the integrated photon flux density, and the number of fruits harvested and the yield showed strong correlation coefficient with it. However, the coefficient of correlation between the number of flowers bloomed or fruit size and the integrated photon flux density were relatively low, suggesting that the light interception by the solar cell does not affect much on the number of flowers bloomed or fruit size. As the yield and the quality of the strawberry fruits decreased with the light intensity by the light transmission type solar cell, the yield and the quality of the fruits can be improved by widening the space between the panels. Originally, the transmission type solar cell had been expected not only as ecological role of power generation, but also as the source of light in a room. Here, the authors propose an additional role of the transmission type solar cell as a roof panel of a greenhouse.
MOLECULAR CLONING, PROKARYOTIC EXPRESSION AND PREPARATION OF ANTISERUM AGAINST LILY SYMPTOMLESS VIRUS TGB1 PROTEIN
Authors: Xu Pinsan , Wang Xinlei , Zhang Zhengyao
Published: August 2018

The triple gene block gene TGB1 was amplified by RT-PCR from lily leaves infected with Lily symptomless virus and cloned into prokaryotic expression vector pET-28a(+). The recombinant vector was transformed into Escherichia coli strain BL21 (DE3). On induction with isopropyl Î²-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside,TGB1 protein was highly expressed and the molecular weight was 29 kDa (including a His-tag-containing fusion). After protein purification by Ni2+-NTA affinity chromatography, a polyclonal antibody against TGB1 was raised in mouse. Western blot analysis showed that the antiserum reacted specially with the TGB1 protein of LSV. ELISA and RT-PCR confirmed that the antiserum reacted specially with lily leaves infected with LSV, and can be used for a rapid test for LSV. The antibody produced in this work may be used for future immunohistochemistry and functional study of TGB1.
EFFECT OF OPEN AIR DRYING DURATION ON SEED MOISTURE AND THE THRESHING QUALITY OF COWPEA
Authors: Asante Eric Amoah , Hu Yongguang , Amuaku Rand , Appah Samuel , Lu Yongzhong
Published: August 2018

To improve on the quality of threshed cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) produce by rural farmers in Ghana, variation in the duration of drying was employed. The cowpea was divided into five units and open air dried to 16.52, 14.69, 11.38, 9.69, and 8.36 % seed moisture contents (SMC) for three (3) days, five (5) days, eight (8) days, eleven (11) days and fourteen (14) days respectively after harvesting.  The SMC effect on threshing and seed quality was assessed with a developed cowpea thresher using 334, 435, 533, 634 and 735 rpm rotor speeds. The results showed that the throughput and efficiency increase with the speed and decreasing SMC. The percentage seed damage increases as the speed and SMC increase. The cowpea at 16.52 % SMC after drying produced the highest average seed damage of 3.05 % while 8.36 % SMC yielded 1.39% average seed damage. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) performed showed that there were significant differences (P Ë‚ 0.01) among the throughput capacities, seed damage and threshing efficiencies. However, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the seed loss control of 9.69% and 8.36% SMC.  The minimum seed loss of 11.38%, 9.69% and 8.36% were less than the overall mean by 7.4, 20.6, and 29.4 % respectively. Therefore, the best machineâ€“crop parameter combination for optimal grain quality is 8â€“10 % SMC and rotor speeds of 388â€“550 rpm. To achieve these SMC, the crop must be dried in the open air for a minimum of eleven (11) days at 7 hour/day.
SOCIO ECONOMIC FACTORS AFFECTING BEAN PRODUCTION IN NORTHERN UGANDA
Authors: A. O Tekkara , A Kumakech , G Otim , A Alexandrina , S Wamani , L Turyagyenda
Published: August 2018

Beans is an important source of proteins and income for poor resource households. However the yied of beans has remained very low in comparion to yields obtained under ideal management conditions. This necessitated the examination of socio-economic factors influencing bean yields of smallholder farmers in eight districts of northern Uganda. A total of 1112 farmers were randomly selected from the study area and the data was subjected to descriptive statistics and regression analysis using IBM SPSS (version 20). The results indicated that 2.3% of variation in beans yield was attributed to amount of seed and acreage planted. The study further revealed that majority of the respondents (81.7%) were practicing farming and most of them were 31-40 years of age (31%). Also, 90.4% and 59.6% of the respondents had bean gardens ranging from 1 to 2 acres and sourced seeds for planting from local market respectively. While 90.4% of the farmers didn't have access to credit, 91.7% actually had access to market information. From the study, majority of the farmers (20.4%) attained yields of either 60 - 120kgs or above 240kgs per acre. It is recommended that, the governmentâ€™s effort to support agricultural mechanization for increased acreage and productivity be strengthened through private public partnership to quickly reach the smallholder farmers.
GENETIC VARIATION IN INDIGENOUS TURKEY POPULATIONS IN SOUTH WEST NIGERIA
Authors: R. B Fatai , M.O Akinyemi , O. H Osaiyuwu
Published: August 2018

The study was carried out to assess the genetic variation in indigenous turkey populations in South West Nigeria using seven protein markers: Hemoglobin (Hb), Albumin (Alb), Transferin (Tf), Esterase-1 (Es-1), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Carbonic anhydrase (CA), and Esterase-3 (Es-3).. A total of 97 turkey birds from Ibadan, Ijebu Ode and Akure were purposively sampled. Separation of plasma and red cell proteins were determined on cellulose acetate electrophoresis to estimate the genetic variability within and among the populations. The degree of heterozygosity, deviation from Hardy-Weinbergs Equilibrum (HWE), FIS, and FST values were estimated. From a total of 7 loci analyzed, six were found to be polymorphic in all the populations sampled while Es-1 was monomorphic. Two codominant alleles which controlled three different genotypes were observed at each polymorphic loci. Deviations from Hardy Weinberg equilibrium and a deficiency of heterozygotes were observed in all the populations. Average heterozygosities ranged between 0.13 and 0.20, heterozygote deficit FIT was estimated at 0.5784 while within breed deficit as evaluated by FIS ranged from 0.38 to 0.56. The fixation index FST revealed that genetic diversity within the studied population was moderately differentiated. Genetic distance among the populations quantified through calculation of Nei genetic distance ranged from 0.037 - 0.109. The result obtained may be used as an initial guide in defining objectives for future investigations of genetic integrity and developing conservation strategies for Nigeria indigenous turkeys.
EVOLUTIONARY DYNAMICS OF BEE COLONY COLLAPSE DISORDER: FIRST STEPS TOWARD A MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF THE CONTAGION HYPOTHESIS
Authors: Farley Jonathan
Published: August 2018

The disappearance of honey bees from many managed colonies in the United States and Europe in 2006 and 2007 is modeled under the assumption that the cause is some contagion.  Based on the limited data available, we use a simple model to suggest that colony collapse disorder will not destroy all colonies in the United States.  To predict the evolution of future outbreaks, however, and perhaps trace their origins, it is recommended that graph-theoretic data be collected, and that census data be collected on a more frequent basis, concerning bee populations.
IN SITE NET PHOTOSYNTHESIS MEASUREMENT OF A PLANT CANOPY IN A SINGLE-SPAN GREENHOUSE
Authors: Takakura Tadashi , Sunagawa Haruki , Tamaki Maro , Usui Takae , Taniai Naoki
Published: August 2018

Using newly developed sensor units that were more compact and accurate than earlier units (Takakura et al., 2009), this study was conducted to estimate the net photosynthesis of a plant canopy in a practical greenhouse during plant cultivation. Net photosynthesis and the ventilation flow rate are two unknowns in this greenhouse system, with adequate growth of bitter gourd plants. Environmental conditions related to evapotranspiration from the canopy and CO2 flux from the soil surface were measured respectively using the developed sensor units and a box-type CO2 concentration sensor. Heat flux from the soil was also measured. Two equations were solved: one for CO2 balance and one for water vapor balance. On-line monitoring of net photosynthesis is possible using simple and inexpensive sensors, but the obtained data of the canopy photosynthesis were scattered because of frequent changes in the ventilation amount. Furthermore, improved sensor units revealed that the evapotranspiration of the canopy was linearly related to net solar radiation in the greenhouse.
EFFECT OF SALINITY ON GROWTH AND PROTEIN CONTENT OF RICE GENOTYPES
Authors: Billah K. M. Masum , Hasan M. M. Mehedi , Jharna Dr. Dilruba Easmin
Published: August 2018

Rice, the highest producing cereal crops in Bangladesh. Saline induced changes in growth was screened at germination to find out the salt tolerant traditional rice genotypes and chemical tests were carried out to detect the protein-content of rice genotypes. Four traditional rice genotypes (Kalijira, Sakkor khana, Chinigura, Ghoto balam) with one improved variety BRRI dhan28 were used in this experiment. The germination experiment was conducted in petri dish at 0, 8, 12, 16 dS/m salinity with three replications each.  Based on the data obtained, the genotypes were scored and categorized as highly tolerant (score 1), tolerant (score 3), moderately tolerant (score 5), susceptible (score 7), and highly susceptible (score 9) to salinity. Salinity caused reduction in germination and declines of shoot length, root length, shoot wet weight and shoot dry weight. Mean salinity tolerance score (MSTS) was computed. Based on MSTS, two genotypes named Kalijira and Chinigura were selected as tolerant, two genotypes named Sakkor khana and BRRI dhan28 as susceptible, and the rest one genotype named Ghoto balam as highly susceptible to salinity in germination stage. Total protein content of rice genotypes were determined by Kjeldahl method. Among 5 varieties studied, Chinigura contains the highest amount of protein (8.855%). The overall data estimated that, Chinigura is more salt tolerant and highly protein rich genotype than other rice genotypes.
EFFECTS OF FOLIAR SPRAYING WITH SALICYLIC ACID ON SOME QUANTITY AND QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF PEAR FRUITS
Authors: Gharib Tahir Ikbal Muhammed , A. Ahmed Tahir , N. Fadhil Nameer
Published: August 2018

A factorial experiment with randomized complete block design carried out in Erbil governorate, Iraq during 2015 and 2016 seasons on pear (Pyrus Communis L.) Spadona and Compote cvs. to investigate the effects of spraying trees with (0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%) salicylic acid (SA) on some fruits quantity and quality characteristics. The results show that Compote fruits had the highest weight and firmness significantly compared to Spadona fruits in both seasons, whereas Spadona variety records the highest total acidity. Fruits of Compote variety records higher chlorophyll a , chlorophyll b and total carotenoids content significantly compared to Spadona variety in 2015, in the opposite of the results of 2016 in respect to chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b. Spraying trees with SA increased fruit weight and firmness compare to control treatment for both seasons, and total acidity in 2015 and total sugars in 2016, whereas the differences were not significant in 2016 and 2015 for the last two properties. In 2015 spraying 1.5% SA increased each of chlorophyll a and b content significantly compared to other concentrations, whereas significant decrease in total carotenoids content observed with increasing SA concentration, whereas the differences between SA treatments were not significant in 2016 in respect to chlorophyll a, b and total carotenoids.