bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sensitivity analysis for APR1400 nodalization under Large Break LOCA condition based on mars code
Authors: Jang Hyung-Wook , Lee Sang-Yong , Oh Seung-Jong , Kim Woong-Bae
Published: June 2017

The phenomena of loss of coolant accident have been investigated for long
time and the result of experiment shows that the flow condition in the
downcomer during the end-of-blowdown were highly multi-dimensional at
full-scale. However, the downcomer nodalization of input deck for large
break loss of coolant accident used in advanced power reactor 1400 analyses
are made up with 1-D model and improperly designed to describe realistic
coolant phenomena during loss of coolant accident analysis. In this paper,
the authors modified the nodalization of MARS code LBLOCA input deck and
performed LBLOCA analysis with new input deck. From original LBLOCA input
deck file, the nodalization of downcomer and junction connections with 4
cold legs and direct vessel injection lines are modified for reflecting the
realistic cross-flow effect and real downcomer structure. The analysis
results show that the peak cladding temperature of new input deck
decreases more rapidly than previous result and that the drop of peak
cladding temperature was advanced by application of momentum flux term in
cross-flow. Additionally, the authors developed a new input deck
with multi-dimensional downcomer model and ran MARS code with
multi-dimensional input deck as well. By using the modified input deck,
the Emergency core cooling system by-pass flow phenomena is better
characterized and found to be consistent with both experimental report and
regulatory guide.
Income distribution and economic growth: A critical approach
Authors: Arestis Philip , Troncoso Baltar
Published: June 2017

The aim of this paper is to review the Kaleckian and post-Kaleckian
literature on income distribution and economic growth and question the
extent to which they analyse countries? economic regimes and economic
performances properly and appropriately to understand countries? economic
performances. The debate focuses on the inclusion of profit margin in the
investment function as a way to characterize the effective demand regime in
the neoliberal era as a profitled growth regime. Our argument is that this
inclusion is not able to evaluate properly the countries? economic growth in
terms of the consistency between its effective demand regimes and income
distribution.
Are PIIGS so different? An empirical analysis of demand and supply shocks
Authors: Syssoyeva-Masson Irina , Sousa Andrade
Published: June 2017

This paper analyses responses to supply and demand shocks in PIIGS countries.
We compare the results obtained for PIIGS with those of Germany and the USA,
and also with those of France, which despite its government?s efforts
demonstrate relatively poor recent economic performance. The main objective
of this paper is to establish whether it is still reasonable to consider
PIIGS as a group apart. Our methodological strategy is based on the Okun Law
(OL) which is incorporated in a Structural Vector Autoregression (SVAR)
model with Blanchard-Quah (BQ) restrictions. We address two drawbacks that
usually present in the OL: the interdependency problem and the
non-stationarity problem. By using a non-parametric representation of OL, we
identify the heterogeneity between countries. We build stable VAR models for
each of the economies and use the BQ SVAR impulses to analyse the importance
of contemporary and long-run effects of supply and demand shocks. The main
conclusion of this paper is that it does not make any sense today to
identify PIIGS as a separate group. Additionally, a country that stands out
from our analysis is France. The question can thus be posed that if ?PIIGS?
signifies ?countries with poor economic performances? then should not France
also belong to this group?
Field assessment of neonicotinoids against three aphid species and their natural enemies on wheat crop in Ismailia, egypt
Authors: Mahmoud Farag , Osman Mohamed , Mahmoud Kariman
Published: June 2017

Aphids are the most important pests on wheat in Egypt and worldwide. Field
trials were conducted to assess the efficacy of the neonicotinoid
insecticides imidacloprid (Nufidor 60% FS; at the doses of 2.1, 1.05 and
0.525 g a.i./kg of seeds) and thiamethoxam (Cruiser 70% WS; at the rates of
14.4, 7.2 and 3.6 g a.i./kg of seeds) as seed treatments, and thiamethoxam
(Actara 25% WG; at the rates of 0.1, 0.05 and 0.025 g a.i./l) as foliar
application, against three wheat aphids: bird cherry oat aphid,
Rhopalosiphum padi (L.), greenbug, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani), and corn
leaf aphid, Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch). Their effects on the aphids?
natural enemies: lacewings, Chrysoperla carnea Stephens, ladybird beetles,
Coccinella spp., and syrphid flies Syrphus spp. were assessed as well. The
trials were conducted on the farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Suez Canal
University, Ismailia Governorate, during 2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons. Our
results showed significant differences between the tested insecticides at
all concentrations and clearly indicated that the recommended doses of all
insecticides were more efficient against aphids on wheat plants than half-
and quarter-doses. Also, the data revealed significant differences between
the two seed treatments at all doses before and after foliar application, as
compared to the control at all time intervals of inspection regarding the
mean number of aphids on wheat plants, from the 3rd until 13th week after
sowing, except in the 8th week after seed treatment before foliar
application. The results clearly indicated that the weekly reduction of
infestation and the general efficacy was higher at the recommended doses of
Nufidor, Cruiser and Actara than the half and quarter doses in both seasons.
Also, reduction in infestation decreased over the following weeks until the
8th week, when Actara insecticide was sprayed. Data revealed that there were
no significant differences between treatments and control in the mean number
of Chrysoperla carnea and Syrphus spp., while a significant difference in
the mean number of coccinellids was observed on wheat plants treated with
imidacloprid seed treatment before foliar application 6 and 7 weeks after
sowing, and also after foliar application with thiamethoxam 9, 10, 11, 12
and 13 weeks after sowing. Regarding thiamethoxam seed treatment,
significant differences were revealed in the ladybird population on wheat
plants 3, 4, 7 and 8 weeks before foliar application, and only in the 10th
week after spraying with thiamethoxam.
HathiTrust and Local Digital Stewardship: A Case Study in How Massive Digital Libraries Affect Local Digital Resources Decisions
Authors: Winkler Heidi , Perrin Joy
Published: June 2017

This article reviews the influence that massive digital libraries like the HathiTrust DigitalLibrary can have on local, smaller institutions’ digitization, preservation, and curationprograms. The history of HathiTrust’s digital preservation efforts as a Trusted Repository isreviewed. A case study is presented showing how one academic library made difficult digitalstewardship decisions in a modern world of globally federated preservation initiatives. Theauthors introduce the concept of deselection as part of the digital curation process and discusshow digital collection administrators can refine their local digital preservation efforts to betterreflect the realities of constrained human and financial resources.
Opettajaopiskelijoiden äänioireet ja niiden yhteys koettuun psykososiaaliseen haittaan sekä arvioon omasta äänenlaadusta – eri opettajankoulutusalojen vertailu
Authors: Britschgi Roosa , Sellman Jaana
Published: June 2017

Tämä tutkimus tarkastelee eri opettajankoulutusalojen opiskelijoiden äänioireita, heidän äänensä vuoksi kokemaa psykososiaalista haittaa sekä kokemusta oman äänensä häiriöisyydestä. Eri oppiaineiden opettamiseen liittyy erilaisia kuormittavia tekijöitä ja joidenkin alojen opettajilla on havaittu muita enemmän äänioireita. Opettajaopiskelijoiden on todettu kokevan jo opiskeluvaiheessa muita yliopisto-opiskelijoita enemmän äänioireita, mutta sitä, esiintyykö jonkin oppiaineen opettajaopiskelijoilla enemmän äänioireita jo opiskeluvaiheessa, ei ole aiemmin vertailtu. Aiemmassa tutkimuksessa äänioireiden ja psykososiaalisen haitan väliltä on löydetty tilastollinen yhteys, mutta suomalaistutkimuksissa tätä yhteyttä ei ole aiemmin tarkasteltu.                                                                                                                                                                        Tähän kyselytutkimukseen osallistui 190 Helsingin yliopiston opettajankoulutuslaitoksen kuuden eri koulutusalan opiskelijaa kaikilta vuosikursseilta. Aineisto kerättiin sähköisellä kyselylomakkeella, joka sisälsi äänioirekyselyn, psykososiaalista haittaa kartoittavan VHI-kyselyn sekä taustatietokyselyn.                             Tutkimus osoitti, että lähes 40 %: ia opettajankoulutuslaitoksen opiskelijoista kokee säännöllisiä äänioireita. Tutkimuksessa havaittiin kuitenkin, että säännöllisistä äänioireistaan huolimatta useimmat (80 %) opiskelijat pitävät ääntään normaalina eikä suurin osa (90 %) kokenut äänensä vuoksi mainittavaa psykososiaalista haittaa. Eri koulutusalojen välillä ei ollut havaittavissa eroja äänioireiden tai psykososiaalisen haitan määrässä.
Habitat Variation and its Effect on the Morphological Characters of Three Wild Plant Species in El-Riyadh City
Authors: Taia W.K. , El-Olyan H.A.
Published: June 2017

Fourteen taxonomic characters have been studied in three wild plant species in El-Riyadh city; Francoeuria crispa, Zilla spinosa and Rumex vesicarius; collected from three different habitats. The results of this study revealed that the habitats have insignificant effect on the leaf characters in spite of the slight effect on the general status, fruiting stage and color of the plants. Cross correspondence analysis between the habitats revealed that the variations were within the confidence limits. It is concluded that leaf characters can be used as an effective selection criterion for classification.
Water Metering Pilot Project: A Case Study of Water Demand Management in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Al Suleimani Zaher Khalid , Al Wohaibi Bushra Khalfan
Published: June 2017

The Sultanate of Oman is experiencing increased pressure on its groundwater resources. This is mainly due to agricultural enterprises, which consume about 92 % of national water resources, as well as an upsurge in industrial, commercial and domestic water use. The ever-growing population, diversification of economic activities and the ensuing rise in national prosperity have meant an increasing demand for water. This has resulted in a marked depletion of groundwater supplies, intrusion of seawater, and deterioration of ground water quality in the case of the Al Batinah region. A scientific and effective water demand management strategy for the Sultanate is therefore needed. Accordingly, the Ministry of Regional Municipalities, Environment and Water Resources (MRMEWR) have conducted several studies related to water demand management in the agricultural, industrial and domestic sectors. One of these studies was the Water Metering Pilot Project (WMPP), initiated in 1994 with the objective of evaluating patterns of water use on a number of randomly selected farms in the southern Al-Batinah. The results obtained over a period of seven years confirm that water metering alone does not help reduce the quantity pumped. These findings have encouraged other advanced studies on water demand management in industrial, commercial, domestic and agriculture sectors in different areas of the Sultanate.
Aflaj’s Irrigation Water Demand/Supply Ratio: Two Case Studies
Authors: Al-Ghafri Abdullah
Published: June 2017

Due to the geographical location of Oman in an arid zone, agricultural production depends fully on irrigation. The traditional irrigation systems (Aflaj, sing. falaj) supply more than one third of water for agriculture. Falaj is defined in the context of this paper as a canal system which provides water for domestic and agricultural uses. Oman has 3,107 active Aflaj producing about 680 Mm3 of water per year. The main objective of this study was to estimate the irrigation performance of Aflaj in Oman. Falaj al-Dariz and al-Nujaid were chosen as case studies. Both Aflaj are located in an extremely arid environment, where the rainfall is low and evapotranspiration is high. The study utilized an approach to estimate the irrigation performance of Aflaj by considering the falaj as a single unit of irrigation. The irrigation demand/supply ratio (D/S) was used in the analysis as a tool of evaluation. Date palm, the dominant crop irrigated by Aflaj, was selected for the analysis. In falaj al-Dariz the date palms were slightly under irrigated on a yearly basis. On a monthly basis, in winter, the D/S was below 0.6 and in summer it was above 1.0. On the other hand, falaj al-Nujaid was supplying too much water than the date palms needed all round the year. In winter the D/S ratio was as low as 0.25. Even in summer, the D/S ratio did not much exceed 1.0.
Reproductive Season of the Scalloped Spiny Lobster Panulirus homarus Along the Coast of Oman: Management Implications
Authors: Al-Marzouqi Abdulaziz , Groeneveld Johan C. , Al-Nahdi Abdullah , Al-Hosni Ahmed
Published: June 2017

The spiny lobster Panulirus homarus is widely distributed in the Indo-West Pacific. Along  the coast of Oman it supports an artisanal fishery using traps and tangle nets. The egg-bearing incidence of females  caught between 1989 and 2006 were analysed relative to month, lobster size and location of capture. The smallest female with external eggs had a carapace length (CL) of 54.6 mm, but only 9–18% of females of 60–69 mm CL carried eggs. This percentage increased significantly above 70 mm CL, and on average, 63% of individuals >90 mm carried eggs. Egg-bearing increased seasonally at the onset of the SW monsoon in May and June, when wind-driven upwelling reduces inshore water temperatures and increases primary productivity. The reproductive season extended over a 9-month period up to  January, with a pause in February to April. No geographical gradient in egg-bearing seasonality was  observed. The prolonged breeding season with multiple broods in large females conforms with the  typical pattern of   tropical palinurids. The 2-month open fishing season (15th October to 15th December) falls within the breeding season, and may be more optimally placed in February to April.
Transport Modeling Analysis to Test the Efficiency of Fish Markets in Oman
Authors: Al-Abri Khamis S. , Kotagama Hemesiri , Palfreman Andrew , Boughanmi Houcine
Published: June 2017

Oman’s fish exports have shown an increasing trend while supplies to the domestic market have declined, despite increased domestic demand caused by population growth and income. This study hypothesized that declining fish supplies to domestic markets were due to inefficiency of the transport function of the fish marketing system in Oman. The hypothesis was tested by comparing the observed prices of several fish species at several markets with optimal prices. The optimal prices were estimated by the dual of a fish transport cost- minimizing linear programming model. Primary data on market prices and transportation costs and quantities transported were gathered through a survey of a sample of fish transporters. The quantity demanded at market sites was estimated using secondary data. The analysis indicated that the differences between the observed prices and the estimated optimal prices were not significantly different showing that the transport function of fish markets in Oman is efficient. This implies that the increasing trend of fish exports vis-à-vis the decreasing trend of supplies to domestic markets is rational and will continue. This may not be considered to be equitable but it is efficient and may have long-term implications for national food security and have an adverse impact on the nutritional and health status of the rural poor population. Policy makers may have to recognize the trade off between the efficiency and equity implications of the fish markets in Oman and make policy decisions accordingly in order to ensure national food security.
Bioactive Compounds from Omani Sea Cucumbers
Authors: Dobretsov Sergey , Al-Mammari Iman Mohammed , Soussi Bassam
Published: June 2017

Antimicrobial, anti-diatom and anti-larval activities of both water soluble (water  extracts) and non-water soluble metabolites (methanol: chlorophorm, 1:1 extracts) of the sea cucumbers Holothuria atra and Holothuria edulis  from Bander AL-Khiran region, Oman were tested in this study. There was no significant effect of  the extracts from sea cucumbers on bacterial (3 reference bacteria from seawater and pathogens  Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa,  Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis) and the diatom  Chaetoceros sp. growth. Both water extracts and methanol: chlorophorm extracts caused significant mortality of Artemia salina nauplia. This study suggests that Omani sea cucumbers might be a good  source of toxic anti-larval compounds.
Environmental Factors Affecting Fleece Traits in Raeini Cashmere Goat
Authors: Salehi Mohammed , Asadi-Fozi Masood , Mirhadi Ahmad , Afshar Majid
Published: June 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate some environmental factors (sex, age and management system) on fibrecharacteristics of Raeini Cashmere goats in Baft stations (BS) and of Raeini Cashmere goats raised in nomadic conditions (NC) as commercial flocks. Fiber samples including cashmere and hair were taken from 150 and 120 Raeini Cashmere goats (aged 1-8 years old) from BS and NC, respectively. The Fleece traits measured included staple length (SL), percentage of cashmere in fleece (C), percentage of guard hair in fleece (H), cashmere's mean fiber diameter (CMFD) and the coefficient of variation of cashmere's fiber diameter (CVFD). Mean SL, C, H, CMFD and CVFD in BS were 6.35 ±0.1 cm, 66.51± 0.72 %, 33.5 ± 0.72 %, 20.19 ±0.11 micron and 19.57± 0.21% and thosein NC were 5.62 ± 0.1 cm, 69.06 ± 0.74 %, 30.94 ±0.74 %, 19.53±0.15 micron and 17.88 ± 0.19 %, respectively. There were significant differences (P<0.05) between the two production management systems for all traits investigated. The value for C was significantly higher in males than females (P<0.05). The results showed that the fleece traits were affected by age. However, the effect of age on these traits was not the same. Significant phenotypic correlations were found between SL and CMFD (0.16) and between SL and CVFD (0.13). The results of this study indicated that the fixed effects of age, sex and management systems as well as the relationship between fleece traits should  be considered in the Raeini Cashmere goat breeding programs.
Changes in Scomberotoxin (Histamine) and Volatile Amine (TVB-N) Formation in Longtail Tuna (Thunnus tonggol) Stored at Different Temperatures
Authors: Al-Busaidi Moza Abdallah , Yesudhason Poulose , Al-Falahi Khamis Saif , Al-Nakhaili Adel Khalifa , Al-Mazrooei Nashwa Ali , Al-Habsi Saoud Hamood
Published: June 2017

Changes in histamine and volatile amine (TVB-N) formation was studied in longtail tuna (Thunnus tonggol) captured in the Sea of Oman and stored at different temperatures. Based on sensory analysis, longtail tuna maintained shelf life for 1, 4, 15 and 300 days at 0, 8, 25 and -18 oC, respectively. Histamine and TVB-N increased with time, but the rate of change varied with storage temperature. Histamine formation was suppressed significantly at lower than the FDA limit of 5 mg/100 g at 0 and -18 oC but not at 8 or 25 oC. TVB-N did not reflect the quality index at 0 or 8 oC even though the samples were rejected by sensory evaluation. No correlation was observed between histamine and TVB-N values except at 25 oC and assessment of TVB-N was not sufficient for estimating the degree of histamine-related health hazard. Poor correlation was found between sensory score and pooled TVB-N value compared to histamine, and the correlation was closer at 8 and 25 oC than at the lower temperatures.
Treatment of Monogenic Parasites in Imported Hybrid Mono Sex Red Tilapia Fries (Oreochromis SPP) in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Mahmoud Aly M. , Gindy Adel N.Z.
Published: June 2017

In February, 2008, 12000 fries of monosex red tilapia hybrid (Oreochromis SPP) of 0.2 g and 12000 fries of monosex Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) of 0.5 g were imported from a hatchery in South East Asia and stocked in concrete raceways at an agriculture farm in the Barka Region about 80 km from Muscat. Three days after stocking, mortality problems were observed. The preliminary inspection revealed abnormal flashing movements of the fish with body scratching against the walls. Faint grayish white discoloration was observed externally on the skin and fins with focal hemorrhagic areas. Examination of skin and gill biopsies demonstrated the presence of a large number of small sized monogenea parasitic worms attacking the tissue of these body regions. Histopathological observations revealed tissue reactions against the parasites and demonstrated a severe dermatitis of the skin, lamellar oedema and hyperplasia of the branchial tissue. A concomitant treatment regime using mebendazole, salt and formalin was practiced for three successive days and repeated three times every week together with parallel management procedures to enhance water quality during treatment. After treatment, a reduction of mortality was noticed within three days and completely ceased after one week at which time biopsy examinations revealed the absence of any parasitic agents. There were no deaths reported among the Nile tilapia, which were raised on the same farm.
Development and performance evaluation of a solar tunnel date dryer in Oman
Authors: Basunia Mohammad Ali , Al-Handali Hamid H. , Al-Belushi Mohammed Issa , Shafiur Rahman Mohammad , Maghoub Osman
Published: June 2017

Taking into consideration the date harvesting and landholding capacities of the marginalized rural farmers in Oman, a 12 meter long and 2 meter wide tunnel was designed and constructed to dry about 180-200 kg of freshly harvested dates per batch. Half of the tunnel base was used as a flat plate air heating solar collector and the other half as a dryer. The drying air was forced from the collector region (South side) to the drying region (North side) of the half circled tunnel where the product is to be dried. The drying temperature could be easily raised by some 5-30 oC above the ambient temperature inside the tunnel at an air velocity of approximately 0.5 m/sec. The test was conducted with 190.2 kg freshly harvested dates with initial moisture content of 32.8% (wet-basis) to analyze the performance of the dryer. The dates were dried to a final average moisture content of 18.6% (wet-basis) within two days (20 hours). The results indicated that the drying was faster in a solar tunnel dryer than the natural open air sun drying. It was possible to reach the moisture content level for safe storage within less than two days (20 hrs) with a solar tunnel dryer and 5-7 days in open air natural sun drying. The improvement in the quality of dates in terms of color and brightness was distinctly recognized.
Habitat Preferences of Juvenile Abalone (Haliotis mariae Wood, 1828) Along the Dhofar Coast of Oman and Implications for Conservation
Authors: Petrus de Waal Schalk Willem , Balkhair Mohammed , Al-Mashikhi Ali , Khoom Salem
Published: June 2017

Surveys were conducted along the eastern Dhofar coast of Oman to investigate densities and habitat preferences of juvenile Haliotis mariae (< 3 cm SL). Average density was 0.62 m-2 (SD 0.56); average urchin density was 3.4 urchins m-2 (SD 3.9). Relationships between juvenile abalone densities and small boulders (<30 cm in diameter (Ø)) tested significant (p = 0.049), as did those between juvenile abalone and urchin densities (p = 0.031). Selectivity (w) and standardized (B) ratios quantifying the relative probability of selection by juvenile abalone for different categories of resource available were calculated. For the studied area B values tested significantly different for (p = 0.004) the different habitats, urchins, boulders <30 cm, 30> <50 cm, and >50 cm Ø, respectively. B values were highest for urchins (6 times that for small boulders), and for boulders <30 cm Ø (double that for boulders 30> <50 cm Ø). B values for boulder habitats decreased as boulder size increased. Urchin utilisation by juvenile abalone as shelter ranged between geographic areas from a minimum of 15.5% to a maximum of 47.6%. The proportion of total habitat that is preferred by more than 97% of juvenile abalone found, including urchins and boulders < 50 cm Ø, comprises 29% of surveyed substratum. While the role urchins play on wild juvenile H. mariae has not proved vital, it is definitely significant. Although juvenile densities are low and are not currently limited by the availability of suitable habitat, it is crucial to identify and conserve those microhabitats that support recruitment of H. mariae. The abundance of these areas should be among the criteria used in selecting protected conservation areas.
Zooplankton of Oman Coastal Waters
Authors: Piontkovski Sergey A. , Al-Maawali Asila , Al-Manthri Ward Al-Muna , Al-Hashmi Khalid , Popova Elena A.
Published: June 2017

Monthly sampling during daytime was carried out in 2007-2011 at Bandar Al-Khyran (23.51oN, 58.72oE) which is the largest semi-enclosed bay on the southern end of the Sea of Oman with about 4 km2 in surface area and an average depth of 10 m. Zooplankton were represented by Copepoda (79%), Cladocera (9%), Oikopleuriddae (7%), Chaetognatha (3%), and Decapoda (~2%) comprising the major part of the total zooplankton abundance. Among copepods, 27 species constituted ~75% of total copepod abundance. Changes of copepod abundance have not had a pronounced seasonal pattern. Instead, a multiple peak structure in monthly fluctuations was observed, on the level of genera as well as the abundance of species. Amplitudes and timing of the copepod peak abundance were markedly different during the studied years.
Partitioning of Chemical Constituents in the Leaf and Stover of Sorghum Grown in a Saline Soil
Authors: Esechie H.A. , Miller F.R.
Published: June 2017

Field and laboratory studies were conducted in l990 and 1991 to determine the concentrations of total nonstructural carbohydrates (TNC), crude protein, cellulose,  hemicellulose. Iignin and ether extract partitioned in the leaf and stower of sorghum grown in a saline soil (EC = 11.8 dSm -1). Twenty three sorghum cultivars comprising 10 female lines. 6 male lines and 7 forage lines were used. TNC was uniformly distributed in the leaf and stover portions. Significantly higher concentrations of cellulose and Iignin were partitioned to the stover portions than the leaf, but the leaf contained larger amounts of hemicellulose and ether extract than the stover. Although, based on TNC contents some of the sorghum types have a potential for methanogenesis, the competing demand as animal feed also needs to be considered.
Animal Health in the Tropics
Authors: Jainudeen M.R. , Sheikh-Omar A. R.
Published: June 2017

Most developing countries in Africa and Asia are located in the tropics (23° north and south of the equator). The poor productivity of ruminants in these countries is mostly due to inadequate nutrition, infectious diseases, low rates of reproduction, poor genotype, high ambient temperatures and socioeconomic constraints. In addition to infectious diseases which have long since been eradicated or brought under control in developed countries, there are diseases unique to the tropical environment. In the past, the diagnosis of most diseases was based on serological tests. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a rapid method of identifying viral and bacterial infections, is contributing to the eradication or control of most epidemic diseases which inflict high mortality. Less attention has; however, been given to subclinical diseases which adversely affect reproduction, growrh rates and reduced performance (draught power, milk and meat). The interaction of veterinary epidemiology and agricultural economics has helped epidemiologists and veterinarians to focus on the economic importance of animal diseases. The emerging trends in animal health include new diagnostic methods using DNA probes, new vaccines, sustainable parasite control schemes and herd health monitoring. The study of infectious diseases of veterinary importance will continue to he supported by modern techniques of molecular biology. Veterinary curricula should emphasis both animal health and production in the context of current national development occurring in the livestock sector.
Effect of a Saline Nutritional Regime on Tomato Fruit Yield and on Enhancement of Fruit Quality
Authors: AI-Rawahy S. A. , Satti S.M.E. , Lopez M. V.
Published: June 2017

The effect of a saline nutritional regime on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruit yield and fruit quality enhancement for five cultivars (CLN 425, Pearson, Napoli, Hymar, and Sierra) was studied. The saline nutrient treatment consisted of (i) a control. Hoagland's solution (EC=2.5 mScm -1), (ii) Hoagland's solution + 50 mM NaCl (EC=7.46 mScm-1), (iii) Hoagland's solution + 50 mM NaCl + 4 mM K2SO4 + 2 mM H3PO4 (EC=8.31mScm-1), (iv) same as in (iii)3 but applied when plants were at 50% flowering, then the plants were irrigated with Hoagland’s solution as in the control, and (v) same as in (iii) until the plans were at 5096 flowering, thereafter NaCl concentration was reduced to 25mM (EC=5.87 mscm-1). Plans were seven weeks old at the start of the saline treatments. Each plant was in PVC cylindrical pots (15 cm diameter and 27 cm height) containing washed quartz sand. Fruits were harvested once weekly for ten weeks at incipient red. The control gave a higher fruit  yield than the saline treatments. However, the tomato fruits from thesaline treatments had higher titratable acidity, higher total soluble solids, and higher total solid indicating better quality of the fruits than those from the control. Of the five cultivars studied, Hymar had the highest fruit yield followed by Pearson. Hymar’s quality was also highest, followed by CLN 425. Napoli was the most susceptible to salinity and Sierra had the lowest quality.
Preparation and Characterization of Macroporous Carrageenan Beads for Enhanced Gel Filtration
Authors: Li Q. , Hsu C. C. E. , Grandmaison E. W. , Goosen M. F. A.
Published: June 2017

Macroporous K-carrageenan beads were prepared by two–step emulsion method, chemically cross-linked characterized, and then employed for gel filtration. It has recently been recognized that convection (i.e. bulk fluid movement) through large pores (i.e. macropores ) is an effective way of enhancing the performance of chromatographic separation by improving mass transfer. The aim of our study was to determine if this concept was true for macroporous and carrageenan beads. The pore structure of the beads was analyzed by environmental scanning electronic microscopy and characterized by measuring  the total surface area and packing density. An increasing toluene content in the first emulsion was found to play an important role in creating more pores and in determining the pore structure. In addition, heat treatment of the beads was very effective for increasing the cross linking density and reducing the bead volume swelling in saline. However, treatment with steam reduced the bead surface area suggesting a change in pore structure. The cross linked hydrogel beads were stable in the pH range 1-13 and in KCI solutions at a concentration over 0.07 M. The bead size increased with a decrease in ionic strength. At low ionic strength, two of the proteins studied, cytochrome C and lysozyme, were found to adsorb to the carrageenan beads. The ionic stength also affected the fractionation range of the beads for gel filtration. The elution volume of various non-adsorbed proteins was reduced with a decrease in ionic stength. The efficiency (i.e. resolution and reduced plate heights) of carrageenanbeads in chromatographic separation was better than that of commercial Sepharose CL-6B beads , especially at high flow rates.
Mortality of the abalone Haliotis mariae (Haliotidae: Mollusca) in aquaculture
Authors: Yoon Gilha , Al-Kaabi Hajer , Al-Kindi Um Kalthoum , Khoom Salem , Cho Miyoung , Park Myong Ae , Shinn Andrew
Published: June 2017

The Omani abalone, Haliotis mariae, is the only species of abalone found in Omani waters. Given the rarity of this species and the high price it can fetch on the market (US$ 150 kg-1 dry weight), the wild abalone fishery in the Dhofar region has been regarded as a valuable income source for the past decade. The present study was undertaken set to investigate the mortality of abalone held at the Mirbat Research Center, through bacteriological and histopathological based investigations and challenge tests. Only the adult wild abalone that had been kept for a year in the hatchery, visually, appeared to be clear of disease symptoms. Infected individuals typically were swollen around the mouth, had fluid tinged with blood, bubbles in the intestines, and, very weak adhesive strength. The foot area (muscle) of diseased animals was noticeably very soft and individuals that were seen lying upside down on the bottom of the tank subsequently died. On dissection, the intestinal organs released bubbles and a foul smelling odour. Identification of the isolated bacteria using various identification methods indicated that individuals were infected with Staphylococcus sciuri. Histopathology of infected individuals revealed spongiosis of the tissues with evident bacterial infection. Neither of these histopathological conditions were seen in healthy abalone. The study concludes that the bacterium Staphylococcus sciuri may be the likely cause of abalone mortalities.
Spatio-temporal dynamics of land use changes in response to external pressures in Oman: Greenhouse cropping as an example
Authors: Deadman Michael L. , Al-Sadi Abdullah M. , Al-Wardi Malik M. , Al-Kiyumi Khalifa S.M. , Deadman W.M. , Al Said Fahad A.
Published: June 2017

Further from the northern coast of Oman new farm developments were more frequent than closer to the coast; they were also larger. The density of farms was highest close to Muscat although the distance enclosing 50% of farms had shifted away from Muscat during the study period. The dominance of Muscat is likely to be related to access to markets and infrastructure development. The increase in groundwater salinity was also highest close to Muscat and may be responsible for the shift in greenhouse density. Salinization of groundwater is severe close to the coast and was responsible for the reduced density of greenhouses near the coast. Land abandonment was highest close to Muscat and to the coast, reflecting changes in groundwater salinity and urbanization pressure. Less evidence was available for a direct shift from farmland to urban land use. Recent urban developments were largely located in areas already abandoned by agriculture. The paper also discusses likely future trends in land use change given that Oman’s population is increasing at over 2% annually and demand for urban land is increasing. The identification of a “salinity corridor” within which much of the future land use change may occur is discussed.
An estimate of the willingness to pay for treated wastewater for irrigation in Oman
Authors: Zekri Slim , Al Harthi Samiha , Kotagama Hemesiri , Bose Shekar
Published: June 2017

The volume of Treated Wastewater (TW) produced in Oman is increasing, due to increased connection of houses to the sewage network and increased construction of wastewater treatment plants. Despite 68% of the TW been used for irrigating urban landscapes, 10.3 Mm3 TW has been discharged to the sea in 2014. Wastewater treatment plants are owned and operated by private companies, which aspire to sell excess TW, particularly to farmers, in order to recover cost of wastewater treatment. This paper has used the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) to estimate the farmers’ Willingness to Pay (WTP) for TW for farm irrigation. Seventy two farmers responded to a face-to face interview on eliciting WTP to purchase TW as irrigation water, out of a total population of 400 farmers in Seeb region who have farms in proximity to a wastewater treatment plant. The results indicated that farmers’ WTP for TW was on average 0.111 OR/m3. WTP for TW was significantly affected by the income of farmers and whether the farm is a market oriented or non-market hobby oriented farm. The percentage of farmers willing to pay the average price or higher was 38%. Most farmers are not willing to pay the price currently charged by the wastewater treatment company for landscaping irrigation (0.220 OR/m3) given the large volumes required for farm irrigation. Even rich farmers maintaining hobby farms are willing to pay only 0.128 OR/m3 versus 0.087 OR/m3 by the market oriented farmers. The WTP for TW is higher than the prices reported (OR 0.005 to 0.023 OR/ m3) for groundwater used in agriculture in Oman. .
Impact of reclaimed water irrigation on soil salinity, hydraulic conductivity, cation exchange capacity and macro-nutrients
Authors: Al-Khamisi Saif A. , Al-Wardy Malik , Ahmed Mushtaque , Prathapar Sanmugam A.
Published: June 2017

Field studies were conducted at Agriculture Research Center, Oman during the year 2010/2011 to monitor the impact of reclaimed water irrigation on soil physical and chemical properties after wheat, cowpea and maize cultivation (in rotation). Three different water sources (Groundwater (GW), desalinized water (DW), and Reclaimed Water (RW)) were used as the treatments in Randomized Completely Block Design (RCBD) with 3 blocks (replicates). Samples were taken from four depths (30, 45, 60 and 90 cm) after harvesting time of the three crops. Soil salinity (ECe) in all soil depths decreased with time. Organic carbon did not show significant difference between harvest timings of wheat and cowpea. Organic carbon increased with time in soil irrigated with reclaimed water. The saturated hydraulic conductivity of the soil, Ksat didn’t show significant difference among the water types and their interaction with soil depths. Total nitrogen was the highest after cowpea harvest in reclaimed water irrigation. The soil phosphorus and potassium were not affected by any of the three water irrigation types. The highest concentrations of phosphorus and potassium were found to be in the upper soil layers. Overall, no adverse impacts of reclaimed water irrigation were observed after growing three crops of rotation.
Effect of Hot and Humid Conditions on Cortisol Levels m Lactating Dairy Cows
Authors: Younas M. , Fuquayz J. W. , Moorez A.B. , Hussain S.M. I.
Published: June 2017

Fourteen lactating, non-pregnant Holstein cows were heat synchronized for estrus and assigned randomly to pens in a free stall barn with (Fan) or without (Control) a fan to observe the effect of forced ventilation on cortisol concentrations. After a 21-day adjustment period, Jugular cannulae were inserted for blood sampling before PGF2a injection. All animals were in their luteal phase at the time of injection as determined by previous observations for estrus and palpation. After PGFZa, blood samples were collected at 6-h intervals from 0 to 36h,  4-h intervals from 36 to 88h and 3 times weekly for three weeks thereafter. Blood samples were assayed for cortisol. Daily rectal temperatures and ambient data were recorded. Average daily rectal temperatures were lower (P<0.05) in the Fan (39.1“C) than in the Control (39.5“C). Cortisol did not show a diurnal pattern and the values did not differ (P >0.05) between treatment groups.
Alfalfa Protein Concentrate as a Less Ruminally Degradable Protein Source for High-Producing Dairy Cows
Authors: Lu C.D. , Jorgensen NA.
Published: June 2017

Ten multiparous Holstein cows were used in a 105-day continuous feeding trial to compare soybean meal (SBM) and alfalfa protein concentrate (APC) as supplemental protein sources for high-producing dairy cows. Dairy cows with an average milk production of 35.2 kg/day were paired and randomly assigned to one of the treatments. A double reversal design was employed With 35 days per period. The comparison between treatments was made during the last 21 days of each period. Experimental diets, containing 60% corn silage and 10% alfalfa hay, were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isoenergetic (crude protein. 15.6%; net energy tor lactation, 1.60 Mcal/kg DM). Fifty percent of dietary nitrogen was provided by test proteins. Animals were fed four times daily. Chromie oxide boluses, 50 g/day were used to estimate digestion coefficients. Ruminal protein degradability in viva (%) and in situ(%)were 56.8, 68.3 and 47.3. 35.3 for SBM and APC, respectively. Dry matter intake (kg/day) was 19.1 and 18.6 for cows fed SBM and APC. respectively. Rummal parameters cows fed SBM vs APC were, pH. 6.6 vs 6.7, ammonia nitrogen(mg/dI) 10.8 vs 6.2(p less than 0.01); total volatile fatty acids (mM), 86.3 VS 84.6(P LESS THAN 0.05), acetate (%) , 50.8 vs 64.9 (p less than 0.01); propionate dry matter , 65.3 vs 61.8; crude protein . 67.6 vs 61.1 (P less than 0.05 ) neutral detergent fiber , 51.1 vs 52.5 ; acid detergent fiber, 47.7 vs 49.0 . A slightly higher (P more than 0.05 ) amount of milk was produced by cows fed APC(28.6+_ 3.5 vs 28.2+- 3.8 kg/day). Each additional gramof undergradable intake protein provided by APC continued to a 5- gram increase in 4% fat-corrected milk production.
Physical Properties of Sandy Soil Affected by Soil Conditioner Under Wetting and Drying cycles
Authors: Choudhary M.I. , AI-Omran A.M. , Shalaby A.A.
Published: June 2017

Information on the effectiveness of soil conditioners over a prolonged period is scarce. A laboratory experiment was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of a polyacrylamide (Broadleaf P4) soil conditioner on the physical properties of sandy soil subjected to wetting and drying cycles. Four concentrations of Broadleaf P4 0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% on dry weight basis were uniformly mixed with a calcareous sandy soil. Addition of Broadleaf P4 to sandy soil increased the water holding capacity, decreased the bulk density, and increased the porosity and void ratio at 0 and 16 wetting and drying cycles. The coefficient of linear extensibility increased considerably with increasing concentrations of the polymer. The addition of polymer at 0 and 16 cycles increased considerably the retention and availability of water in sandy soil. Saturated hydraulic conductivity decreased with increasing concentrations of Broadleaf P4 whereas unsaturated hydraulic conductivity at 0 and 16 cycles showed an increase with increasing soil moisture contents. After I6 wetting and drying cycles, the capacity of the soil to hold water was lost on average by 15.8% when compared to the 0 wetting and drying cycle. The effectiveness of the soil conditioner on bulk density, coefficient of linear extensibility, available water and saturated hydraulic conductivity was reduced on average by 14.1, 24.5, 21.l and 53.7% respectively. The significant changes in soil properties between 0 and 16 cycles suggested that the effectiveness of the conditioner decreased with the application of wetting and drying cycles. However, its effect was still considerable when compared to untreated soil under laboratory conditions.
Evaluation of Yeast Biomass (Candida utilis) in a Practical Diet for Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Goddard J.S. , Deveau G. , Martin A.M.
Published: June 2017

A yeast, Candida utilis, cultured on a substrate derived from a mixture of peat moss and fish processing waste, was substituted for fish meal in a practical diet for rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. The formulated diets were isonitrogenous (40% crude protein) and isoealoric (gross energy 20 kJ per g dry matter). During a 50-day feeding trial fish tripled in weight, and there were no significant differences in the mean final weights of groups of fish fed diets in which 0%, 25% and 35% of fishmeal had been replaced by yeast biomass. Diets containing yeast were palatable, as determined by food intake, and were highly digestible for protein. Carcass analysis revealed that the fish fed with yeast biomass had slightly higher crude protein and ash contents, and lower lipid levels than those of the control group. Significant reductions were recorded in food conversion efficiency as the yeast content of the diets increased. The results indicate the potential for partial replacement of fish meal (between 25-35%) by Candida utilis biomass in feeds formulated for rainbow trout.
Ovipositional Deterrence of Methanolic and Etherial Extracts of Five Plants to the Cowpea Bruchid, Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)
Authors: Elhag E.A. , El Nadi A.H. , Zaitoon A.A.
Published: June 2017

Methanol and diethyl ether extracts of Harmal, Rhazya stricta Decne.; neem seed kernels, Azadirachta indica A.Juss; cloves, Syzygeum aromarticum (L.); citrus peel and Ramram, Heliotropium bacciferum (Forssk-) were evaluated for their deterrence to oviposition by Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) on chickpeas in choice tests. Both extracts of all materials significantly reduced oviposition on treated seeds. Maximum deterrent effects (91.8%) were obtained in the neem seed methanol extract at 0.5% concentration, citrus peel O. l% ether extract (90.9%), R stricta 0.5% methanol extract (83.9%), and clove 0. 1% ether extract (80.0%). Methanol extracts of neem seeds and R. stricta evoked higher deterrent effects than their etherial extracts, whereas the responses for cloves and citrus peel were more pronounced in their ether extracts. H. bacirferum % deterrency due to both types of extracts were practically identical. The results encourage future incorporation of such plant extracts as ovipositional deterrents in stored-product lPM programmes.
Responses of Canola to Different Row and Plant Spacings
Authors: Cheema M.A. , Malik M.A. , Hussain A. , Shah S.H. , Basra S.M.A.
Published: June 2017

A field study was carried out to determine growth and yield of canola (Brassica napus L.) at different inter row (30, 45, and 60 cm) and intra row (10, 15, and 20 cm) spacing between 1995-97. The closer row Spacing of 30 cm significantly increased leaf area index (LAD, total dry matter (TDM) in both the seasons over wider spacing of 45 and 60 cm. Similarly closer plant spacing of 10 cm also enhanced LA! and TDM over 15 or 20 cm plant spacing. Seed and oil yield was significantly increased in first row spacing compared with 45 or 60 cm row spacing in both seasons. Swd yield was linearly related to TDM yield, harvest index was not changed. The results suggest that closer spacing of 30 cm is optimum for maximizing seed and oil yield for canola under the agro-ecological conditions of Faisalabad.
A Heat Transfer Model to Predict Temperature Distribution in Stored Wheat
Authors: AI-Amri A.M.S. , Abbouda S.K.
Published: June 2017

The combined convective and conductive heat transfer model which previously developed by Abbouda er al. (1992) was applied in this study to simulate the temperatures of wheat grain during storage process using input data of initial grain temperatures, ambient air temperatures, wind speeds and thermal properties of grain, bin structure and soil. The local weather data used in the model were obtained from the meteorological station of King Faisal University at Al-Ahsa Province of Saudi Arabia. Experimental data showed that, bin size and initial moisture content affected the grain temperature differences between the top surface and the bottom of the bin. The average grain temperature followed the trend of the ambient air temperature with a time delay. Predicted and measured grain temperatures were in close agreement for a test period of one year. Results indicated that the model and the parameter values used in the model are applicable for predicting temperature of stored wheat under static storage conditions.