bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data management in CUDA Programming for High Bandwidth Memory in GPU Accelerators
Authors: Korpała Grzegorz
Published: August 2023

The number of applications that use GPU accelerated calculations always grows. The software conversion to such calculation type is although complex but gives enormous energy efficiency and performance. In the publication is presented a method of the data sets, in which a temporary storage is occurred in the shared memory of GPU. The loading of values to shared memory via massive data access makes it possible to exploit the full power of the High Bandwidth Memory. It is demonstrated by CUDA codes for Cellular Automaton application and corresponding indexing of the data in global and shared memory. The real and the theoretical Speed-Up are described and shown in this publication.
GPU implementation of Kampmann-Wagner numerical precipitation models
Authors: Jensen Oyvind  , Lam Henrik  , Fjar Hallvard
Published: August 2023

A Kampmann-Wagner type numerical precipitation model (KWN) has been implemented using NVIDIA's CUDA framework for numerical programming of the graphics processing unit (GPU). Different implementation strategies are discussed and subjected to performance When the KWN model is used in combination with other calculations that are processed by the CPU, the performance improvements can be such that the KWN model incurs only emph{negligible} additional execution time. Also if the KWN model is used standalone for a large case, the GPU implementation achieves good scalability and performance.measurements. We study two representative cases corresponding to a large and a small workload. The model is found to be well suited for a GPU implementation, provided that there is enough work to keep the device busy and the right parallelization strategy is chosen. For our hardware, we recommend a minimum work load of more than $2^{16}$ histogram bins (as the total of multiple histograms) which corresponds to 146 histogram bins per GPU core.
Computer aided design of manufacturing of automotive part made of magnesium alloy
Authors: Ambroziński Mateusz , Rauch Łukasz , Paćko Marek , Gronostajski Zbigniew , Jaśkiewicz Karol , Chorzępa Władysław
Published: August 2023

Evaluation of the possibility of substitution of steel part in the car body by the one made of AZ31 alloy was the objective of the paper. Bracket in the support of the steering wheel was selected for the analysis. Two criteria were selected to evaluate the possibility of using the Mg alloy part: i) stiffness of this part cannot be lower than that of the steel part, ii) Manufacturing of the part has to be possible. The objective of the research was a design of the shape of the bracket, that meets assumed criteria including manufacturing and assembly possibilities. The optimization task was formulated to reach this objective. Maximum stiffness of the part was the objective function and technological limitations were the constraints. Dimensions of the bracket were the optimization variables. Optimal shape was designed and numerical simulations were performed to evaluate possibility of stamping of this part. Simulations have shown that the decrease of the thickness is within of acceptable limits and that the strains are below the limiting strains. Thus, proposition of the shape of the magnesium alloy bracket, which can be safely manufactured by stamping, is the main output of the paper.
Application of significance analysis to finding root causes of product defects in continuous casting of steel
Authors: Rodziewicz Agnieszka , Perzyk Marcin
Published: August 2023

The aim of this paper is to present an application of the input variable significance analysis to finding probable causes of product defects occurring in continuous casting (CC) of steel. The research was carried out using production data routinely recorded in one of Polish steel plants and basically referred to defective fraction of billets per heat as the process output. The data did not include the cases with zero defects which made the analysis difficult. The process inputs included eight parameters of different nature (physical, organizational and human). For determining which of the process input parameters are crucial for the output and which of them can be easily eliminated in further analyses two different approaches were applied and compared. The basic tool was an MLP-type Artificial Neural Network in which the relative significance was defined as the sum of the absolute weights of the connections from the given input node to all the nodes in the first hidden layer.  As a complementary method the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized in which the value of the F-statistics is used as a measure of the input significance. It was found that the both methods indicate that the start-time of the CC process is the factor highly influencing the fraction of defective products. The process physical parameters which are expected to have a large influence on the billet quality, i.e. deviations from nominal casting temperature and deviation from nominal casting speed also appeared to be significant, moreover their variations also highly depend on the start-time of the CC process. The final conclusion is that the direct cause of the defective products are incorrect adjustments of the casting speed occurring mainly in the morning hours, however not correlated with particular operators. This finding can considerably facilitate the identification of the root cause of the defects by the plant engineers. Some recommendations concerning the future work are also given.
Finite element core calculations and stream processing
Authors: Banaś Krzysztof  , Bielański Jan  , Chłoń Kazimierz 
Published: August 2023

We present the execution model and performance analysis for the important phase of finite element calculations, the creation of systems of linear equations. We assume that the process is realized using a set of CPU cores and GPU multiprocessors, with CPU and GPU memories connected using PCIe links for data transfer. We analyse the use of linear data structures that are designed specially for GPU processing. We present the examples of calculations for the standard first order FEM approximation and typical contemporary hardware. We draw the conclusions on the feasibility of the proposed approach.
On the Specifics of Modelling of Rotary Forging Processes
Authors: Krishnamurthy Bhaskaran , Bylya Olga  , Muir Lisa  , Conway Alastair  , Blackwell Paul 
Published: August 2023

Rotary forging process, in spite of its various advantages, has still not reached industrial production scale owing to its complex nature. With the advent of sophisticated finite-element modelling capabilities, it is now possible to make rotary forging more predictable and optimize it for industrial production standards.However, modelling by nature involves a series of assumptions and simplifications that can help us make reasonable predictions. It is important to know the important factors that affect the results, and what compromises can be made, with a genuine understanding of what the compromises will result in. This paper reports some initial findings from our attempt towards robust modelling for the design of the rotary forging process. Herein, we have taken the simple case of rotary upsetting of cylinders using a custom-designed rotary forging machine and modelled it using commercial metal-forming software QForm.
Experimental investigations on the transformation-induced plasticity in a high tensile steel under varying thermo-mechanical loading
Authors: Behrens Bernd-Arno , Bouguecha Anas , Bonk Christian , Chugreev Alexander
Published: August 2023

Transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) also known as transformation plasticity (TP) occurs during solid state phase transformation in the case of applied stress and may lead to irreversible macroscopic distortions in steel components after heat treatment. Particularly, in the context of cost-efficient hot forging, where heat treatment is integrated in the process chain, various complex stress states can occur during the cooling phase due to irregular part geometry, temperature gradients and local differences in the deformation history. Varying local temperature, unsteady stress state or even sudden unloading during the transformation can have a strong impact on the resulting TRIP strain. Thus prediction of the final distortions in hot formed steel components becomes challenging. For this reason process simulation based on the finite element (FE) method offers great opportunities for the accurate virtual process design, reducing time- as well as cost-intensive trial and error cycles. However, a realistic FE-simulation requires reliable mathematical models as well as detailed thermo-mechanical material data. In order to improve the modelling of the material behavior in a hot forging and quenching process, physical simulations for particular process-related time-force-temperature profiles have been carried out on a uniaxial thermo-mechanical testing machine. The relative dilatation of the steel specimens for several applied stresses as well as for the case of sudden unloading have been recorded and evaluated for both compressive and tensile loads. It has been shown that other process parameters (e. g. heating strategy) also have a significant influence on the resulting TRIP strains.
On the applicability of JMAK-type models in predicting IN718 microstructural evolution
Authors: Stefani Nicola  , Bylya Olga , Reshetov Aleksey  , Blackwell Paul 
Published: August 2023

Nickel-based superalloys are widely used in the aerospace sector for their mechanical properties, which are directly related to the microstructural and physical properties of these materials. JMAK-type models have been applied to this class of superalloys for the prediction of microstructural evolution phenomena such as recrystallisation. However, these models often lack a clear range of applicability. The majority of the successful applications normally address rather idealised processes (relatively slow forging, simple geometry). However, the real-world production environment generally involves complex strain paths and thermal histories. Thus, there arises the question of whether the JMAK-type models can be applied to such cases. This paper’s research focus is to investigate the applicability of JMAK-type models for such processes. To do this, screw press forging of disks was used to validate the in-built JMAK-type model of Inconel 718® available in DEFORMTM.  In particular, the applicability of the model was examined using a comparison between the results from simulation and from metallographic analysis. At first, the appropriateness of the JMAK outputs in describing the observed microstructures was investigated and then quantitative results were evaluated. The model’s outputs were found to be insufficient in describing the observed microstructural states and additional parameters were deemed necessary. The model’s predictions ranged from a broadly good match, for which the model could be calibrated with a proposed new methodology, to a qualitative mismatch that highlights the limits of the model’s applicability.
Simulation and measurement of temperature in high speed drawing process of steel wires
Authors: Suliga Maciej , Szota Piotr , Mróz Sebastian
Published: August 2023

Theoretical and experimental investigations of steel wire heating up and cooling down in the high-speed drawing process have been carried out in the study. The theoretical investigation encompassed simulations of the drawing process using the Forge2011® program, in which the temperature distributions at the wire exit from the die and the temperature of wire after being wound onto the drum were determined.To verify the obtained theoretical investigation results, the experimental measurement of the temperature of wires on the drum and on the storage reel was carried out in industrial conditions.It has been demonstrated that intensive and short-duration heating of a thin, approximately 50µm-thick wire sub-surface layer up to temperatures not exceeding 1000°C occurs in the high-speed drawing process. By contrast, immediately after wire exit from the die, intensive cooling of the wire over a length of about 0.2 mm down to a temperature of below 200°C takes place.
Stability estimates for Discrete duality finite volume scheme of Heston model
Authors: Handlovicova Angela
Published: August 2023

Tensor diffusion equation represents an important model in many fields of science. We focused our attention to the problem which arises in financial mathematics and is known as 2D Heston model. Stability estimates for discrete duality finite volume scheme for proposed model is presented. Numerical experiments using proposed method and comparing it with previous numerical scheme are included
Fast cutting clearance evaluation in piercing processes by means of vision system
Authors: Jasiński Cezary  , Morawiński Łukasz
Published: August 2023

Cutting is one of the most commonly used processes in sheet metal forming. One of the most important parameters of this process is the clearance. Clearance value is defined as the distance between the cutting edge of the punch and the cutting edge of the die. It is relative to the sheet thickness and has a significant effect on the quality of the cutting hole surface, the size of the hole and the possibility of a burr occurring or the rollover area on the edge of the product. In the cutting process clearance value increase during tools wear. Its correct evaluation allows to determine moment when the tools should be replaced. In the presented paper authors have proposed fast clearance evaluation method base on the geometry measurement of the finished product. Measurements was carried out by means of vision system equipped with specially designed illumination, which allows to extract the rollover area at the edge of the hole. Then measured rollover area diameter was compared to clearance values.
Synergetic approach to die wear modelling in hot forging process
Authors: Wilkus Marek� , Szeliga Danuta� , Rauch �ukasz� , Pietrzyk Maciej
Published: August 2023

A proposition of the hybrid model of the tool wear in hot forging is described in the paper. The idea of the model was based on distinguishing various mechanisms of the tool wear and evaluation of the mutual influence of these mechanisms. The analysis of factors, cumulative wear of which is mutually dependent, confirmed that all mechanisms influence each other in some way. To cover this, the hybrid die wear model was proposed which includes significance of each mechanism and the mutual relation between them. Additionally, to include change of material parameters, modification of these parameters was account for by a feedback, passing modified die geometry and optionally material parameters into the next iteration of die wear modelling. Developed model consists of the FE simulation to which the following process parameters are supplied by the user: wear mechanisms blocks containing adequate models, significance models and extrapolation routines for results or input parameters, component to apply computed wear value as a die geometry and control the computation of multi-iteration wear prediction. Some mechanisms blocks contain additional components for computing correction of surface parameters altered by thermomechanical fatigue, cracks or increased porosity. Numerical tests of the model were performed for the second operation in the forging of clutch wheel. Comparison of predictions and measurements confirmed improvement of the model predictive capability when synergy of the three mechanisms was accounted for.
Using the Hypergraph Grammar for generation of quasi optimal element partition trees in two dimensions
Authors: Ryzner Jakub� , Paszy�ski Maciej� , Paszy�ska Anna�
Published: August 2023

The paper presents the graph grammar model of Finite Element Method allowing for speeding up performed numerical simulations. In the presented approach, the finite element mesh operations are performed together with operations generating so-called element partition tree. The element partition tree�sets the ordering of matrix operations performed by solver in order to solve the computational problem. The quality of element partition tree influences the computational time of the solver. Our method allows for generation good quality element partition trees for h-adaptive Finite Element Method. The paper is concluded with numerical results confirming the quality of generated element partition trees.
Suwerenność energetyczna w polityce europejskiej i krajowej
Authors: Tokarski Stanisław
Published: August 2023

Inwazja Rosji na Ukrainę w 2022 r. wzbudziła potrzebę redefinicji bezpieczeństwa energetycznego i suwerenności energetycznej zarówno Unii Europejskiej jako wspólnoty, jak i poszczególnych jej członków. Użycie surowców energetycznych jako broni oznacza, że energia nie może być traktowana wyłącznie jako towar podlegający regułom rynkowym, ale staje się atrybutem suwerenności wspólnoty. W artykule dokonano przeglądu regulacji unijnych i krajowych w obszarze energii, w kontekście wydarzeń od ogłoszenia Zielonego Ładu do początku 2023 r. Przeprowadzono analizę i próbę odpowiedzi na pytanie, czy i pod jakimi warunkami UE może być suwerenna energetycznie.
CARACTERIZAÇÃO E DIAGNÓSTICO DAS PATOLOGIAS EM UM TRECHO DA RODOVIA BR-010 BELÉM-BRASÍLIA: subtrecho entre os municípios de Imperatriz (MA) e Governador Edson Lobão (MA)
Authors: Silva Juliana Rezende , De Lima Cleverson Alves , Teixeira Niel Nascimento , Moraes Eder de Assis
Published: August 2023

This article assessed the main problems encountered on the BR-010 highway, between Imperatriz and Gov. Edson Lobão cities, Maranhão state. The section was subdivided into ten parts with similar characteristics for flexible pavement conservation evaluation, according road agency technical criteria. The criteria set out in DNIT 005/2003 - TER were applied for pavement investigation and defects evaluation; and, a continuous visual survey for problems types quantification was applied, provided by DNIT 008/2003 - PRO, which resulted in three qualitative indices for the pavement running condition, surface condition and degradation degree. These methods provided a road section overview, which can be extrapolated to other sections given similar maintenance conditions, indicating recovery and conservation planning problems for great importance road in national transport, ensuring economy and comfort to users of the highway.
Imágenes híbridas de tomografía por emisión de positrones y resonancia magnética en el diagnóstico de la sarcoidosis cardíaca. Experiencia piloto
Authors: Rodríguez María Ileana , Merani María Fernanda , Gallo Juan Cruz , López de Munaín María Nieves , Campisi Roxana
Published: August 2023

Introducción: Estudios recientes sugieren combinar los hallazgos de la resonancia magnética cardíaca (RMC) y los de la tomografía por emisión de positrones (PET) para incrementar la sensibilidad del diagnóstico de la sarcoidosis cardíaca (SC).Objetivo: Evaluar el valor complementario de la RMC y la PET en el diagnóstico de la SC.Material y métodos: Entre diciembre 2018 y Julio 2020, 6 pacientes (4 hombres y 2 mujeres) fueron referidos a nuestro servicio con sospecha de SC para evaluación de inflamación del miocardio. Se efectuó un estudio de perfusión miocárdica en reposo (13N Amonio) y de 18F-Fluordesoxiglucosa (FDG)-PET para evaluar inflamación y/o fibrosis. A todos los pacientes se les realizópreviamente una RMC con gadolinio.Resultados: La edad media fue de 60 ± 9 años. El 50% de los pacientes presentaban antecedente de sarcoidosis sistémica y el otro 50% sospecha de SC aislada. Ninguno de los pacientes presentó inflamación activa del miocardio por PET. Con la combinaciónde los patrones-PET y el realce por RMC se reclasificó a los pacientes: 50% tuvo menos del 10% de probabilidad de padecer SC y el otro 50% se clasificó como posible. Ninguno de los pacientes recibió tratamiento inmunosupresor.Conclusión: En nuestra población de pacientes con sospecha de SC e inflamación, realizamos un estudio PET luego de la RMC para calcular probabilidades de padecer SC. En ausencia de un patrón oro, se sugiere que el diagnóstico de SC se base en probabilidades de acuerdo a patrones de imágenes y cuadro clínico específicos. 
Cómo citar este artículo:
Rodríguez MI, Merani MF, Gallo JC, López de Munaín MN, Campisi R. Imágenes híbridas de tomografía por emisión de positrones y resonancia magnética en el diagnóstico de la sarcoidosis cardíaca. Experiencia piloto. Revis Argent Cardiol 90;2022: 392-397
http://dx.doi.org/10.7775/rac.es.v90.i6.20573
Changes in the Physical Quality of Culled Layer Chicken Meat at Different Ultrasonic Time Levels
Authors: Khoiriyah Revy Arina Roudhotul , Awwaly Khotibul Umam Al , Susilo Agus
Published: August 2023

Aims: This study aims to determine changes in the quality of culled layer chicken meat at different ultrasonic time levels based on Cooking loss, pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Tenderness and Color L*a*b*. the material used is culled layer chicken meat which has been ultrasonic.

Study Design: The method used in this research is experimental laboratory using Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 5 treatments and 4 replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Animal Product Technology Departement, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, between September-November 2022.

Methodology: Ultrasonic treatment for 10 minutes (P1), 15 minutes (P2), 20 minutes (P3), 25 minutes (P4), and 30 minutes (P5). Parameters observed were Cooking loss, pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Tenderness and Color. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). If the data showed a significant difference, continued with Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT). 

Results: The average cooking loss value is 2.24-4.07; pH 6.21-6.40; EC 0.61-0.76; tenderness   6.9-10.8; color L* 45.79-51.62; a*6.30-6.54; b* 12.56-13.19.

Conclusion: The results showed that ultrasonic treatment with a different time in culled layer chicken meat had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the pH, EC, color but could have significant.
Economic Analysis of the Coffee Market in Rwanda
Authors: Ngarukiye Nasser
Published: August 2023

Coffee contributes significantly to the economy of Rwanda as a major export product and the livelihood of thousands of Rwandans. As such, the government of Rwanda has taken great strides to develop the coffee production sector particularly in developing infrastructure impacted by the genocide and implementing policies to ensure sustainable growth. This study aimed to give an economic analysis of the coffee market in Rwanda. It examined the factors affecting the coffee market and identified the major in the market globally and regionally and used them as a benchmark for comparison. The study showed various measures being taken to increase the quantity of coffee produced including increasing the area of harvested coffee following a drop in area from a high of 55 000 hectares in 2014 to 21 700 hectares in 2019. Rwanda’s National Agricultural Export Board implemented measures to improve yields and production quality through providing fertilizers, improving management of wash stations and engaging private stakeholders and NGOs to train farmers in smart agriculture techniques. Consequentially the quantity of coffee produced and exported improved between 2014 and 2019.
Effect of Magnetic Irrigation Saline Water and Pre-Sowing of Grains Treated with Magnetic Field on Saline Soil Fertility and Wheat Productivity and Quality
Authors: Shaban Khaled A. H. , Ahmed Marwa A. , El-Sayed Hala A. M.
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was carried out in a privet farm in Romana village, North Sinia, governorate, Egypt, during winter of two successive years 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 to study the effect of magnetic irrigation water with different salinity levels (1000, 2000, 4000 and 6000 ppm) from four wells and pre-sowing of seeds wheat seeds at (0, 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 hr) treated with magnetic field on soil fertility and wheat productivity in newly reclaimed soil. In both seasons each experiment was carried out in a split plot design with three replicates. The results suggested that magnetized irrigation saline water and the magnetic pre-sowing grains treatment led to reduce of EC and soil pH and the increasing of availability macro-micronutrients contents in the soil Magnetic treated of both seeds and irrigation water salinity led to an increase of yield components and quality for wheat plant as well as the increase of macro-micronutrients concentrations in straw and wheat grains plant Finally, the technique of magnetic field in agricultural fields could be a promising technique for agricultural improvement but extensive research is still required to many studies in the future.
Examination of Rythu Bharosa Kendra (RBK) Services in Vizianagaram District of Andhra Pradesh with a View to Improving Service Delivery to Farmers
Authors: Haritha M. , Asokhan M. , Karthikeyan C. , Rani A. Janaki , Ganapati Patil Santosh
Published: August 2023

Rythu Bharosa Kendra is a State Government initiative of Andhra Pradesh in India for providing various services to the farmers from seed to sale at gross root level. The present study highlights the knowledge level of farmers along with the constraints and suggestions of farmers regarding the services provided by RBK. Ex post facto research design was employed to conduct the study, using multi stage proportionate random sampling procedure, a sample of 140 farmers were selected from Vizianagaram district. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse and categorize the data regarding knowledge level of farmers and to identify and rank the constraints and suggestions Garrett’s Ranking Technique was employed. The findings of the study identified that nearly three-fourths (73.00%) of the farmers had medium level of knowledge regarding services rendered by RBKs followed by high (17.71%) and low (9.29%) levels of knowledge. The prime constraints faced by the farmers were lack of expertise to use digital kiosk, delay in disbursement of payment for the marketed produce and lack of proper infrastructure facilities. The foremost suggestions given by the farmers were on time disbursement of payment for the marketed produce and timely supply of inputs and Rythu Bharosa to farmers and improving infrastructure facilities of RBK. The findings of the study will aid policy makers to formulate new interventions for improving the services of RBK and also functionaries of RBK in improving the existing lacunae and formulating new ones.
The Moderatoring Role of Digital Transformation Strategy on the Relationship between Intellectual Capital and Competitive Advantage in Private Universities in South Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Irayani  , Kamaludin  , Fachruzzaman  , Muhammad Rusdi
Published: August 2023

Aims: The increment of Indonesian higher education institutions has intensified competition,. After the global pandemic created pressure to accelerate digital transformation, changes in the global economy have also triggered some institutions to prioritize the high quality of service for their clients.

The aims of this to investigate the moderating effect of a digital transformation strategy on the relationship between intellectual capital and competitive advantage in private universities in South Sumatra. Indeed, intellectual capital is generally an essential aspect and one of the most conducive to innovative and unrestrained competition.

Study Design:  Explanatory Study.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: 300 respondents from ten private universities took part in the survey in April 2022 to June 2022.

Methodology: The respondents from ten selecting private universities implementing the digital transformation strategy. Using the quantitative and Partial Least Square (PLS) to analyze the data and test the hypotheses.

Results: Digital Transformation Strategy (DTS) significantly impacts the competitive advantage of private universities in South Sumatra. The results mean that the higher the digital transformation strategy, the higher the competitive advantage. Digital transformation strategy as the moderator to significantly increase the effect of intellectual capital on competitive advantage.

Conclusion: The variable of intellectual capital significantly affects the competitive advantage of private universities in South Sumatra. This result means that the higher the intellectual capital with the dimensions of human capital, organizational capital and relationship capital (collaboration), the higher the competitive advantage. Furthermore, Digital transformation strategies have a quasi-moderating role (Quasi Moderator). It means the higher the digital transformation strategy, the higher the competitive advantage. The digital transformation strategy is to significantly increase the effect of intellectual capital on competitive advantage.
Genetic Diversity Analysis of Poeciliidae Fish Using RAPD-PCR Method
Authors: Mulyani Yuniar , Sundari Eulis Reni , Aidin Nisa Nur , Lesmana Astyani , Aisyah
Published: August 2023

There are many species of Poeciliidae fish in nature. Poeciliidae is a family of freshwater fish in the order Cyprinodontiformes and are well-known aquarium fish, such as guppies, mollies, platies and swordtails. Therefore, genetic analysis on Poeciliidae is important to collect information about biodiversity, genetic classification, and study developments that occurred during evolution. One approach to determine genetic diversity in many fish species can use Random Amplification Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). This study aims to analyze the genetic diversity of Poeciliidae fish using the RAPD-PCR method. This research was conducted at the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Padjadjaran University, Indonesia. The samples used were guppy fish (1), platy (2), molly (3), swordtail (4), and goldfish (5). RAPD-PCR was performed using OPA-6 primer. Procedures include sampling, isolation or extraction of DNA, DNA amplification using the RAPD technique, electrophoresis, and data analysis using NTSys. Genetic diversity of  Poecillidae can be analyzed using RAPD-PCR. The phylogenetics of the Poeciliidae fish samples analyzed using OPA-6 showed that the guppy fish species (sample 1) are closely related to the platy fish (fish sample 2). Furthermore, the clade branched out with sample 3 (molly fish), and the three samples are related to sample 4 (swordtail fish).
The Role of Servant Leadership in Supporting the Health Workforce during COVID 19
Authors: Abdulai Abdul-Malik
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on healthcare workers worldwide. These individuals have been on the front lines, risking their health and safety to care for patients. However, the emotional toll of the pandemic cannot be overlooked. Healthcare workers are not only dealing with the physical demands of their jobs but also the psychological stress and anxiety that comes with caring for patients during a global crisis.

Effective leadership is crucial in every organization, however, some organizations such as healthcare need leaders who are capable of inspiration and psychological safety. This is because health workers endure so much stress and anxiety resulting from the concerns and empathic connection with their clients.

Servant leadership, an emerging leadership style, is particularly suitable during crises, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Servant leadership is a style that focuses on serving the needs of others and prioritizing their well-being. This leadership approach is particularly suited to the healthcare industry, where the well-being of patients and staff is of utmost importance. Servant leaders create a culture of psychological safety, where healthcare workers feel supported and valued. This includes ensuring that healthcare workers have access to personal protective equipment, providing emotional support and counselling services, and recognizing and appreciating their efforts.

To put the effect of servant leadership into perspective, this article highlights some effects of COVID-19 on health workers and follows up to present a view on how servant leaders would mitigate the effects on the workers. Current and future managers of the healthcare system should undertake training on servant leadership to serve the workers well for the ultimate benefit of the organization.
Sensory Stability of Maize Grains Preserved by a Triple Packing System and Biopesticides (Leaves of Lippia multiflora Moldenke and Hyptis suaveolens Poit)
Authors: Félix N’Dri Kouakou , Biego Henri Marius , Daouda Sidibe , Ysidor Konan , Coulibaly Adama
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensory stability of maize grains preserved in a triple bagging system with or without plant biopesticides (leaves of Lippia multiflora and Hyptis suaveolens), using a three-factor central composite design (CCD).

The first CCD factor consisted of 6 observation periods, namely: 0; 1; 4.5; 9.5; 14.5 and 18 months. The second factor was the type of treatment, which consisted of 1 control batch with polypropylene bags (WB) and 9 experimental batches, including 1 in a triple bag with no biopesticides (TS0) and eight (8) additional batches containing ratios and/or combinations of biopesticides (TS1 to TS8). Finally, the third factor concerns the combination of two biopesticides, with the percentage (%) of Lippia multiflora as the reference.

The samples were stored at room temperature for 18 months and periodically removed from storage for descriptive sensory analysis. All samples showed significant differences in sensory attributes initially and after storage. Intensity scores for negative sensory attributes such as musty and rancid aromas and acidic and astringent flavors increased during storage. After 18 months of storage, samples stored in a triple bagging system without biopesticides showed the highest intensity scores for rancid, moldy, acidic, and astringent flavors. These scores were 7.33±0.35; 6±1.67; 3.57±1.15; 4.38±1.57 respectively. However, samples preserved in triple bagging systems with biopesticides showed the lowest intensity scores for these negative attributes (4.5±0.8; 3.2±0.6; 2.18±1.73 and 1.96±0.67, respectively). In addition, the intensity scores for color, sweetness, and corn aroma decreased for all samples. Samples stored in triple bagging systems showed the smallest decrease at the end of storage for these positive attributes (5.67±1.21 for color, 5.66±1.5 for sweetness, and 5.25±1.47 for corn aroma).
Evaluation of Different Ornamental Ficus under Shadenet Conditions of Prayagraj
Authors: Nandam Bhagyasri , Singh Devi , Wesley C. John
Published: August 2023

An experiment entitled Evaluation of different ornamental ficus under shadenet conditions of prayagraj was conducted in shadenet house, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj during July-October 2022 on ficus. The experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with eight varieties replicated thrice. The varieties used were Ficus microcarpa golden, Ficus microcarpa moclame, Ficus microcarpa crassifolia, Ficus triangularis variegata, Ficus benjamina exotica, Ficus benjamina reginald, Ficus benjamina starlight, Ficus benjamina safari. The results revealed that better performance was seen in Ficus microcarpa golden in all parameters like plant height at 90 days (56.33 cm), no. of leaves at 90 days (94.43 cm), leaf length at 90 days (10.13 cm), leaf breadth at 90 days (4.53 cm), no. of primary branches at 90 days (11.23 cm), plant spread at 90 days (36.93 cm), leaf petiole length    (1.6 cm).
Assessment of Climate Change Impact and Adaptation Strategies for Rainfed Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Akshaya S. , Kokilavani S. , Pazhanivelan S. , Dheebakaran Ga. , Boomiraj K. , Kumar S. Mohan
Published: August 2023

The study was performed to assess the impact of climate change on spatiotemporal changes in rainfed maize yield. Climate projections data of MIROC-ESM-CHEM model from CMIP6 was used for future climatic scenarios in the maize growing areas of Dindigul and Perambalur districts of Tamil Nadu. The DSSAT model was used to simulate maize yield and evaluate adaptation strategies for base period (1991-2020), the mid (2040-2069) and end centuries (2070-2099) under SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios. The simulation finding shows that, in all scenarios maize yield declined in both Dindigul (7 to 9% and 11 to 12%) and Perambalur (6 to 9% and 11 to 13%) during mid and end centuries respectively from the base period (1991-2020). Following the adaptation strategies such as delayed sowing, the yield was increased in both Dindigul (5 to 6% and 4 to 5%) and Perambalur (4 to 5% and 5 to 6%) with respect to normal sowing date. The results of this study would help in developing adaptation strategies for minimizing the adverse effects of the projected climate in maize-growing districts of Tamil Nadu.
Conservation Agriculture: A Long-term Approach towards Sustainability
Authors: Sharma Jyoti , Mahajan Amit , Menia Monika , Kumar Deepak , Bochalya Ranjeet Singh , Naveena  , Kumawat Shesh Narayan
Published: August 2023

With the application of intensive agricultural techniques, conventional agriculture has been successful in meeting production goals but has also led to the depletion of natural resources. Sustainability in the management of the natural resource base is necessary for ongoing and expanded agricultural output to provide food security for future generations. Over a long period, the traditional tillage practice has led to the destruction of the natural resource base of the land. As a result of its inherent connection to the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of soil, it has led to a significant loss of soil and SOM, which is a crucial component of soil quality. Therefore, a suitable cropping system and land use must be implemented and adopted to ensure food security on a sustainable basis. These measures should be based on principles to prevent land degradation, protect the natural resource base, and improve food and nutritional security through crop diversification and optimal rotation. The one sustainable cropping method that may reverse soil erosion, increase crop output, and improve the socioeconomic status of small landholder farmers is conservation agriculture (CA). Conservation agriculture (CA) is the integrated management of the available natural resources such as soil, water, flora, and fauna, with certain outside inputs to maximize the effectiveness of natural resource utilization. To fulfill the objective of sustainable crop production, an alternative approach known as conservation agriculture has emerged. It represents a significant advance in the direction of sustainable agriculture. This article reviews the emerging concerns due to the continuous adoption of conventional agriculture systems, contrasting features between conventional and conservation agriculture systems, and various principles and practices in conservation agriculture. It also highlights the benefits and limitations of CA and various challenges in the adoption of CA.
Investigation on Genetic Variability, Heritability, Correlation Studies in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)
Authors: Aishwarya G. , Deepanshu
Published: August 2023

The field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2022 at horticulture research farm, department of horticulture, naini agriculture institute, shuats, to study on genetic variability, heritability, correlation studies in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) were estimated among 14 cowpea genotypes for 19 qualitative traits. The High estimate of GCV along with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded for number of seeds per plant, seed weight per plant, green pod yield per plant and pod yield per hectare. While moderate estimate of GCV along with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded for pod length, number of peduncles per plant, number of pods per peduncle, plant height at both flowering and maturity stage.
Simulation of Maize Phenology and Grain Yield Using DSSAT Model
Authors: Ahirwar S. , Subbaiah R. , Gupta P. , Tiwari M. K. , Trivedi M. M. , Vaishnav P.
Published: August 2023

The field experiment was conducted at the Farm of College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Godhra, Gujarat during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20 to simulate the phenology and yield of rabi maize (Zea mays L.) in sandy loam soil of the central Gujarat. The field experiment design was split split plot with 36 treatment combinations with 3 replications including three irrigation regimes (1.0IW/CPE, 0.8IW/CPE and 0.6IW/CPE), four mulch conditions (control, paddy straw, black plastic, and reflective silver plastic mulch), and three stages (tasselling, silking and dough stage). The experimental data of the year 2018-19 and 2019-20 was used for the calibration and validation of the model respectively. The result revealed a significant difference in grain yield due to irrigation regime, mulching and growth stages. The DSSAT model could good simulate grain yield (R2 = 0.989) under the simulation of irrigation regimes, mulching, and growth stages.
Effect of Integrated Nutrients Management (INM) Practices on Growth and Yield of Radish
Authors: Anand Bhaskar , Yadav Deependra , Kumar Sandeep
Published: August 2023

Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) is necessary to enhance sustainable yield in an eco-friendly way. A field experiment was conducted during November 2021 in winter season at School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University Mandi (Chail Chowk), Himachal Pradesh to study the effect of integrated nutrients management on growth and yield of the radish cv. Pusa Desi. The experiment consisted of 7 treatments with control, laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The treatment combination consisted of organic manure (FYM and Vermicompost) and inorganic fertilizers (NPK). The quantitative growth and yield parameters were recorded at 30 DAS and at harvest. Number of leaves (7.72) at 30 DAS and (14.28) at harvest, root length (12.10 cm) at 30 DAS and (26.43 cm) at harvest, root diameter (3.13 cm) at 30 DAS and (5.70 cm) at harvest, was recorded in T5 (NPK 50% + FYM 25% + Vermicompost 25%) Whereas the fresh weight (195.18 g) and dry weight of roots (39.04 g), root yield per plot (28.23 kg), root yield per hectare (470.53 q) and harvest index (45.45%) was also maximum recorded in T5 (NPK 50% + FYM 25% + Vermicompost 25%). The study suggested that the combined application of inorganic and organic manure and fertilizers (NPK 50% + FYM 25% +Vermicompost 25%) was highly beneficial for all the growth and yield parameters of radish.
Comparison between DTPA Extracting Methods for Available Zinc with Multinutrient Extractants in Vertisols and Inceptisols
Authors: Mahawar Neeta , Srivastava Sanjay , Gupta Subhash Chand , Trivedi S. K.
Published: August 2023

Aims: To evaluate relationships between some universal soil extractants and legacy methods.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at IISS, Bhopal.

Methodology: Samples were analyzed by different methods being related; e.g. GLOSOLAN/international method or rapid methods/universal extractant and legacy methods. Measured data was obtained under the best achievable laboratory quality control conditions, for maximal transfer function reliability with the lowest RMSE (Root Mean Square Error). Out of the 60 samples in each category, a representative set (80% of the samples) was used (e.g. by linear regression analysis) for the development of the transfer function and the rest 20% of the samples were retained for validation of transfer functions. Residuals (differences) between measured and estimated soil property values were calculated. The correlation and RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) were calculated for the validation data set.

Results: The Zinc extractable DTPA and Mehlich-3 had a regression coefficient of R2= 0.92. while the extracted with AB DTPA had the regression coefficient of R2= 0.72 with DTPA, with extraction in the order of Mehlich3> AB DTPA> DTPA. Hence, Mehlich-3 and AB-DTPA both extractants can replace DTPA extractants for the determination of available micronutrients in soils in Vertisols.

Conclusion: In conclusion, different regression equations are developed between the various methods of analysis that must be used to compare the results obtained from different extraction methods.
Genotype x Environment Interactions and Stability of Grain Yield of Maize Hybrids across Sudanian and Sudano-Sahelian Agro-ecological Zones in Burkina Faso
Authors: Ouédraogo Nofou , Sawadogo Nerbéwendé , Banhoro Abdoulazize , Kouraogo Issouf , Boro Oumar , Sawadogo Armel Prisca , Gracen Vernon
Published: August 2023

Maize is an important staple crop for millions of people in Sub-Saharan Africa and, particularly in Burkina Faso, where it ranks first among cereals since 2020. Available maize varieties are low yielding. To enhance maize production SEMAFORT, a seed company founded recently in Burkina Faso, introduced three-way hybrids. The present investigation was performed to assess 128 hybrids in 2018 and the best performing hybrids for genotype-by-environment (G×E) interactions in 2019. The study was conducted at one location (Farako-Ba) during the first year of evaluation using an alpha lattice design and in five locations during the second year using a randomized block design. The second year of the study was conducted in two different agro-ecological zones of Burkina Faso. The data were subjected to genotype and genotype by environment interaction (GGE) biplot analysis using GenStat statistical package. The analysis revealed four mega-environments which discriminated the hybrids according to yield potential. In each mega-environment, the best yielding hybrids were identified and will be further tested and possibly released for production in specific areas. The most stable genotype in the highest yielding and most stable environment was SX8-121. It could be grown across Sudan and Sudano-Sahelian zones of Burkina Faso.
Performance of Ornamental Plants in Different Media Composition for Outdoor Vertical Gardening: Experimental Investigation
Authors: Muskan  , Singh Devi , Wesley C. John
Published: August 2023

The present experiment was carried out during August 2022 to November 2022 in Research Field , Department of Horticulture SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was conducted in Factorial Plot Design (FPD) with five media composition i.e (Soil, Perlite, Sand, Cocopeat,) in different proportion viz. M0-Soil,M1- Perlite +Cocopeat+Sand 1:1:1,M2- Perlite +Cocopeat+Sand 1:1:2,M3- Perlite+Cocopeat+Sand 1:2:1,M4- Perlite+Cocopeat+Sand 2:1:1 in plastic pot for outdoor vertical gardening. Total number of plants are 150, there are two factors .Five variety and each varieties have five plants with three replication. Second factor is the different types of plant such as Begonia semperflorens, Crassula ovata, Syngonium podophyllum, Coleus scutellarioide, Iresine herbstii. From the present experimental growth parameter and ornamental morphological characters observed. Among the five ornamentals plants used Coleus scutellarioide and Jade performed better as ornamentals plants used in vertical garden system with growing media and the media composition M4 (Perlite+Cocopeat+Sand 2:1:1) is the best media composition for the plant growth.