bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring the Quality of Life Felda Residents in Iskandar Malaysia Based on Perception of Quality of Life Index
Authors: Yusoff Wan Zahari Wan , Arshad Ezhwan Nur
Published: February 2019

Quality of life is a change in the society from a state that is considered unsatisfactory to a better condition which includes not only economic development but also involves various aspects such as social, psychological, cultural, political and environmental. The success of a placement can be measured by the improvement in the quality of life of the local residents. Iskandar Malaysia (IM) is a rapidly growing and developing area of which they are expected to contribute to the lives betterment of people in the economy and in the surrounding area as stated in the Comprehensive Development Plan for South Johor Economic Region. The question arises to what extent the IM development projects beneficial to the survival of the residents in the area as well to help improve the quality of life of the local residents in line with the current rapid development being carried out. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to determine the quality of life of Felda residents in Iskandar Malaysia using quality of life perception index. The research focused on the Felda population in Iskandar Malaysia based on the justification that they are the group of people who receive the most significant impact on the development of IM in the process of land acquisition and loss of shelter and habitat for future employment with the expectations of receiving a better life. IM perception Quality of life measurement model is determined based on the Malaysian Quality of Life Index. In addition, the measurement of quality of life through perception model was constructed to solicit comments from the locals. The research methodology is through the collection of primary data and secondary data from surveys and interviews and collecting data from the relevant agencies. The data were analyzed and the results showed that the quality of life of Felda residents in IM at moderate levels. Only two components are achieved at the satisfactory level namely transportation and housing.Â  This study hopes to benefit the related parties who involve in the policy making in reviewing the existing policy towards a better development which will subsequently increase the level of quality of life of the local and native residents in IM.
A Study on Determination and Implementation of Operation Theatre Management System in a Private Hospital, Trichy: A Six Sigma Approach
Authors: Raja Vishnu , Devi Bhooma
Published: February 2019

The study aims in increasing the number of surgeries with the available resources in the operation theatre which ultimately improves the efficiency and effectiveness of operation theatre. Efficiency rate is calculated multiplying the availability of operation theatre, Number of scheduled surgeries and success rate of surgeries. This formula is commonly accepted in calculating the efficiency rate among Industrial sectors. The study covers the activities involved from patients entering pre operation theatre to transferring them to post operation theatre i.e. from admission to discharge process of operation theatre. Methodology adopted in this study is Six Sigma. The Defect per million opportunities analysis reveals that the existing sigma level is 2.6 and the existing efficiency rate is 54.5 percent. It was found that the risk priority number was high in the assessment and preparation of surgery process in which missing of pre-assessment and failure to give timely request for investigation has been identified as the failure modes. This leads to increase in average length of stay which is caused by postponement and cancellation of surgeries; this ultimately leads to reduction in productivity. The vital few items are found to be poor pre admission procedure, in adequacy in manpower, patient delay, drugs delay and slow turnaround time. Improving the efficiency by finding solutions to the root causes leading to substantial improvement in Quality of service can be achieved through Six Sigma approach which is one of the Total quality management concepts and methodologies.
Slotted Carrier Sense Multiple Access Protocols- A Review
Authors: Kaur Kulbir , Kumar Kiran
Published: February 2019

CSMA/CA protocols rely on the random deferment of packet transmissions. Like most other protocols, CSMA/CA was designed with the assumption that the nodes would play by the rules. This is important the nodes themselves control deferment. However, with the higher programmability of the network adapters, the temptation to tamper with the software or firmware is likely to grow; in this way, a user could obtain a much larger share of the available bandwidth at the expenseof other users. This paper focuses on slotted CSMA/CA and tries to find out its limitations of the slotted CSMA/CA  protocols.
Role of Information Systems in Organizational Business Process
Authors: Kitone Margaret K. , Omieno Kelvin Kabeti
Published: February 2019

Over the years , Information System has advanced so much that we are able to operate better in an organization which is better than what used to happen in the past. Information Systems derived from the term data processing. The purpose of Information Systems is to provide efficient and reliable ways on how to perform functions in an organization. Computers have important role in evolution of Information System. There have been a lot of applications of Information System in the organizations today including human resource operation as the main field of concern, accounting andÂ  finance, logistics and planning among others. Internet is the recent development in the use of Information.Â  Studies have been carried out on Information System and its application but none of the studies have looked at the role Information System plays in typical organizational operational functions especially in the Human Resource Operations. This therefore leaves the gap in research that this paper sought to breach. The study is conducted through analysis of literature review from journals, and surveys. The paper therefore recommends that organizations should apply Information Systems in Human Resources operationsÂ  in order to reap these benefits.
The impact of participatory management on organizational culture and performance Case Study: Isfahan municipality employees
Authors: Lavafan Omid , Soltani Iraj
Published: February 2019

Increasing employee engagement through organizational culture has numerous advantages for the organization. When employees are involved in the process of making decisions, they are more cooperative in accepting them and more committed, leading to increased performance. This paper aims to evaluate the impact of participatory management on organizational culture and performance. According to the available literature and research background, three hypotheses are formed and tested. A standard questionnaire is used as the data collection tool, distributed among employees of District 6 of Isfahan Municipality. The collected data are analyzed using SPSS V.18.0 and AMOS V.20.0 software packages. The results show that participatory management has both direct and indirect, through organizational culture, impacts on organizational performance.
Evaluation and Prioritization of Internet Banking Service Quality: The Case of Egypt
Authors: Hussien Miran Ismail , El Aziz Rasha Abd
Published: February 2019

Changes in technology made a paradigm shift in the banking industry. Technology itself created its world in the globe of human beings. Internet banking is a service that allows customers to perform a wide range of financial services through a banks website. With the rapid diffusion of the Internet, web-based banking has become an alternative channel to provide banking services and products. Due to the deepness of technology in the service sector, there is a shift from the traditional service quality to electronic service quality (ESQ) in order to fit the Internet banking strategy. The aim of the paper is to rank and prioritize the Internet Banking Service Quality dimensions according to customers relevant importance from both bank sectors namely, private and public banks using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, which is a structured technique for organizing and analyzing complex decisions. AHP has been seen as a high potential decision support tool in banking industry.
REAL-TIME AIR POLLUTION MONITORING AND CONTROLLING SYSTEM
Authors: Kurani Prachit , Shah Yash
Published: February 2019

This paper presents Real-Time system for air pollution monitoring and control. The main objective of the work is designing microcontroller based toxic gas detecting and alerting system. This is a semi-automated system such that if the pollution level exceeds the normal level then an alarm is generated immediately and also an alert message (SMS) is sent to the authorized person through the GSM. Along with this the ionizer responsible for reducing the level of pollutants too would be started by the system. Time to time detected data would be stored into database for further retrieval.
The Mediating Effect Of Work Cooperative Attitude On The Affecting Of Organizational Justice To Dysfunctional Behavior And Impacted To The Loan Controllers Performance
Authors: Sitorus Tigor
Published: February 2019

The objective of this research is to build a theoretical and an empirical model of theWork Cooperative Attitude of Loan Controller on decreasing the Dysfunctional behavior at banking industries and its impact to Loan Controllers Performance. This study wanted to test empirically direct and indirect effects of ; The first, The Organizational Justice to Dysfunctional behavior, The second, The Organizational Justice dysfunctional behavior mediated by Work Cooperative Attitude, the third, The Work Cooperative Attitude to Loan Controllers Performance, The fourth,  the Work Cooperative Attitude to Loan Controllers Performance mediated by Dysfunctional behavior at the biggest ten of bank listed in Indonesian stock exchange, Jakarta area in 2011.The Structural Equation Modeling and Analysis of Path by Amos Software 16.00 used to analysis data which result have a high goodness of fit , and the  test of simultaneous and individual test proved significant with  coefficient  < 0.05 and the variation of the dependent variable could be explained or estimated by the independent variables with coefficient adjusted R Square  > 0.60.The results of the analysis shows that ;  The First,  Organizational justice is  positive but not significantly increasing  the Dysfunctional behavior,  The second, effort to decrease the dysfunctional behavior will significant and more strength throughout  increasing the variable of Work Cooperative attitude. The Third, effort to increase The Loan Controllers Performance will significant by decrease the Dysfunctional behavior and increasing Work Cooperative Attitude simultaneously. This study recommend about the importance  of building Work Cooperative Attitude of loan Controller with dimensions; cooperative work, openness, honesty, commitment, mutual respect.Those could be obtained if the company has a good procedural and distribution justice for loan Controller.
Effects of Job Satisfaction on Job Performance and Occupational Commitment
Authors: Bakan Ismail , Buyukbese Tuba , Ersahan Burcu , Sezer Buket
Published: February 2019

The paper aims to examine the effect of job satisfaction on the levels of job performance and occupational commitment among academicians in the universities. A structured questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection, with academic staff in the Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University as respondents. The results of regression analysis indicated that job satisfaction has a positive impact on job performance and occupational commitment.  Job satisfaction explains the 36.7 percent of job performance, and 48.0 percent of occupational commitment of academic staff. Additionally, occupational commitment has also a positive impact on job performance of academicians and explains 28.7 percent of their job performance. Academic administrators can provide a suitable organizational climate to increase the satisfaction level and thus, occupational commitment and job performance of the academic staff will increase. The results and recommendations in the paper will be of interest to all academic administrators and staff, not only for the Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University but also for the academic administrators in all universities.
Stock Price Fluctuations and Corporate Forecasts Disclosure: Evidence from an Emerging Market
Authors: Kasgari Abbas Bagherian , Sheykhi Keyvan
Published: February 2019

This research investigates the relation between forecasting report disclosure and stock price fluctuations. The first hypothesize examine if there is a relation between two variables among companies which lead to fluctuation in the stock price and the second hypothesize examined these variables over research industries. Capital market reacts to new information in most cases- at least one month before the official date of the disclosure. We found evidence of fluctuation in stock prices before disclosure indicate that information was released to the market before official disclosure. In the other word, stock prices react to the unofficially released information and rumors to the market around the releasing new officially disclosure date. This fraudulent attempt was initiated by price manipulation in cases which we don't see significant price change during forecasted disclosure even if there are significant change in reported earning values. This investigation indicates that there is a significant relationship between releasing forecasted information and stock price fluctuations in the selected listed companies in TSE.
The impact of knowledge management on competitive advantage considering the mediating role of organizational agility Case study: the hospitality industry in Isfahan
Authors: Soltani Iraj , Lavafan Ali
Published: February 2019

Competitive advantage, as aset of unique abilities in an organization, allows it to enter new markets and overcome competition. This paper aims to determine the impact of agility and knowledge management on competitive advantage. According to the available literature and research background, three hypotheses are formed and tested. The data for the study are collected using a standard questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS V.18.0 and AMOS V.20.0 software packages. The results indicate that knowledge management affects the ability to gain competitive advantage both directly and indirectly through organizational agility.
Lean Supply Chain Ecosystem for MSME a Framework for Phased Implementation.
Authors: Dinakaran Soundar raj , Sudhahar Dr. J. Clement
Published: February 2019

Supply Chain Management is the major operation tool for all the Industries. Micro, Small and Medium Industries are aware of the supply chain management but many of these companies have not yet followed this operation tool. In this scenario the Lean Supply Chain Management is also a part of the supply chain management, it means that how to minimize the supply chain cost and to use effectively without changing the time as well as reduce the time to deliver also.  Based on the literature and Industry visit there are some gaps identified which affect the supply chain management and how it to be change into the Lean Supply Chain Management there are Communication, Information Sharing System, Cost control planning, Customer service, Industry trends, Customer linkages, Service philosophy, Seasonality Management Mindset, Lean Supply chain problem readiness, Supplier base, Data infrastructure Distribution center swaps and Lean Supply chain bottlenecks intervention. When the industry were fill this gaps the Supply Chain Management is to convert into the Lean supply Chain Management through this Micro, Small and Medium Industries can make their business well profitable and comfortable.
A Comparative Study of Service Quality of Life Insurance Companies in IndiaA Comparative Study of Service Quality of Life Insurance Companies in India
Authors: Sharma Neha , SwarupKandikonda Santi
Published: February 2019

The Indian Life Insurance sector has witnessed a major revamp in 1999 with the establishment of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) and subsequent entry of Private sector players. These changes are affecting the way service is being delivered. Technology usage, new innovative product introduction and competition are seen as drivers of quality of service being provided to the customers.In this study using SERVQUAL model, we have examined the importance of service based on the 5 dimensions viz, Tangibles, Reliability, Responsiveness, Assurance and Empathy. Using 120 Life Insurance policy holders from 3 Life insurance companies in Agra the study identified that the gaps exist even after 15 years of privatization of this sector. The study indicated that a lot needs to be done for improving customer focus and services activity in the Life Insurance sector. Regular customer surveys with increased sample sizes across the country will enable the Insurance companies to fill the gaps
Maintenance model based on multi agent system improving the performance to a total quality management
Authors: Helmi D. , Radouani M. , El fahime B. , Kamel kaya S.A
Published: February 2019

Manufacturers recognize that production systems have no value if the production equipment is unreliable. Nowadaysindustrial maintenance, strategic business function is evolving. It is inter -related to the development of knowledge and technology, the development of new business methods well as the need to reduce costs. It should not only ensure the proper functioning of equipment but also to continually improve their performance, and enhance their lives. All these factors play havoc not only the modes of organization of the maintenance function but also the activities of actors who operate in this area.
How do Competitive and Regulatory Pressures Interact with Internal Corporate Governance?: Evidence from the Cameroonian Banking Sector
Authors: TALLA Idrice RomÃ©o KUATE , David KAMDEM
Published: February 2019

The objective of this article is to analyse the impact of both external and internal mechanisms of corporate governance on banks performance in Cameroon. The internal governance mechanisms consist of those linked with the Board of directors (its size and composition) and the ownership structure (ownership concentration, equity capital of each type of shareholder). External mechanisms consist of pressure from competitors, and regulatory pressure from the banking Commission following the adoption of equity principles or rules. Research carried out on a sample of 11 Cameroonian banks showed the effect of complementarity between the control exerted by internal stakeholders (institutional shareholders, insiders ownership, size of the Board of directors) and competitive pressure. On the contrary, a substitution effect was detected between State administrators and competitive pressure. Results obtained also revealed the substitution effect between control exercised by the Board of directors and regulatory pressure.
A Comparative Analysis of e-government security frameworks Social-Technical Security Aspect
Authors: Ihmouda Rabia , Mohd Alwi Najwa Hayaati
Published: February 2019

In recent years, most governments invested in the development of electronic government to improve governments efficiency and provide better services to businesses and citizens. As the successful implementation of the e-government depends on the viable security, all the concerns related to it need to be addressed. Security has become one of the crucial factors and primary challenges for achieving an advanced stage of e-government. In this regard, the paper investigates and analyzes six e-government security frameworks to assessing the security weaknesses of these frameworks from socio-technical security aspects. Meta-synthesis methodology used in this study, the meta-synthesis follows the steps used in meta-ethnography which adopted from Noblit and Hare. The finding is clearly showed that the socio-technical security missed to the rest of the security control principles and best practices elements. Therefore there is a clear need of a holistic socio-technical approach to be developed to match the pertinent security requirements into the e-government implementation.
Evaluation the effect of irrigation water salinity and Fusarium fungi on seven safflower cultivars
Authors: Tahmasebpour Behnam , Babazade Alireza
Published: February 2019

In order to study the effect of Salinity levels of Sodium chloride and Soil type on the characteristics of some grown seeds and the resistance rate of Fusarium fungi (quantitative length evaluation of necrotic part in plants gorget) in biotypes of safflowers, an experiment was factorically conducted by using two salinity levels of sodium chloride (20% and 50% salinitys), seven biotypes of acanaceous and non-acanaceous safflowers (Iraqi 222, IL111, K.H.64.68, and Varamin 295,Local Isfahan , Padideh and 340779), two types of soil (clay sandy-clay), in a three times randomized complete block design. The variance analyzing results showed that between the levels of all factors, there was meaningful difference for 2 studied characteristics. According to the results obtained from the comparison of factors means, genotypes of Iraqi 222, K.H.64.68 and 340779 under the condition of 20% salinity and genotype of Iraqi 222 under the condition of 50% salinity contained the most numbers of grown seeds. On the other hand the most resistance rate against Fusarium mushrooms was related to genotype K.H.64.68 under the condition of clay soil and 20% salinity, genotype IL111 under the condition of clay soil and 50% salinity and local genotype of Isfahan under the condition of sandy-clay soil with 20% salinity, Based on the results obtained from the linear regression and simple correlation coefficient there was positive and meaningful correlation between two evaluated characteristics in the probability level of 1% and the relation between them was estimated as linear and positive one (y=0/545+0/234X), where X refers to the number of grown seeds and y refers to the resistance against Fusarium.
Comparation of the qualitative parameters of traditional feedstuff vs alternative feedstuff
Authors: Gjesovska Keti , Necinova Ljupka , Nakov Gjore
Published: February 2019

Animal feed is a product of vegetable, animal or mineral origin, obtained naturally or in industrial process,as feed mixtures, concentrates and raw materials for the production of animal feed, which serve as food for animals, which are not harmful to their health.The animal feed can be processed,partly processed or unprocessed for animal nutrition. Historically, feed costs have represented 65 -75 percent of the variable costs of swine production, but for many producers this figure is higher now. As a result, feed costs play a major role in determining the profitability of a swine enterprise. Feed costs are, and will continue to be, an ever increasing factor in determining the profitability of a swine enterprise. Adopting ingredient alternatives seems like a logical step for pork producers. The aim of this study is to compare the qualitative parameters of feed stuffs from different groups,traditional and alternative,point to their advantages and their disadvantages by their usage during the process of animal breeding and livestock production,and all that in order to prove that the traditional feedstuffs can be replaced with alternative,which will cost effectively and provide variety of benefits to the swine ratio including energy,protein and fiber. The samples which were analysed were samples of corn and barley.The analyses were made in the labotory of the Agro Idustrial Association – AGRIA.Parameters which refer to the quality of the feedstuff and which were analysed were :moisture, ash insoluble in hydrochloric acid, raw proteins, raw fiber, acidity degree and the amount of substances that they shouldn?t contain or should contain only in certain quantities (forbidden substances).The obtained results were compared to the standard parameters in order to compare the quality of the analysed feedstuffs. The obtained values from the the tested samples are: moisture 10.4% and 10.58% for corn and barley respectively, proteins 8.06% and 11.27%; ash 1, 16% and 2.57%, fiber 2.61% and 3.84.
On-farm reproductive performance and breeding objective of sheep in six selected Districts of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia..
Authors: Hayelom Mulata , Abegaz Solomon , Mekasha Yoseph
Published: February 2019

The study was carried out in Atsibi Wonberta, Wukro Kilteawlaeo, Ofla, Alamata, Enderta and Degua Temben districts of Tigray Regional State of Ethiopia to assess the reproductive Performance and to describe the breeding objective of Sheep in the study area. A total of 12 peasant associations 2 from each district were selected randomly. A total of 180 households 30 from each district were selected randomly for the interview. Data were gathered through semi-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions and field observations. Data collected through questionnaire were described by descriptive statistics using JMP 5, 2002. In this study reproduction performance of sheep is assessed by their age at sexual maturity, age at first lambing, lambing interval, weaning age and lambing pattern. The overall estimated mean age at first lambing of ewes in the districts of Astibi-wonberta, Wukro-kilteawlaelo, Ofla, Alamata, Enderta and Degua-Tembien sheep was 18.15, 16.77, 16.7, 16.83, 17.77 and 16.77 months, respectively. The estimated mean lambing interval of highland sheep in Atsibi-Wonberta (9.6±0.7), Wukro-Kilteawlaelo (8.3±0.8), Ofla (6.3±0.7), Enderta (10.4±0.6), Deguatembien (8.4±0.5) and Afar (Elle) sheep in Alamata is 7.6±0.5 months respectively. The average weaning age of sheep in the study districts was three to six months. But, in Atsibi-wonberta (30%), Ofla (43.33%) and Enderta (36.67%) districts the average weaning age was greater than six months. Lambing of sheep was the highest during the months of December and November with an index value of 0.34 and 0.26, respectively. Generally the reproductive performance of sheep in this study area implies that the sheep breeds have acceptable age range for breeding though it is late compared to temperate breeds. In the study area for ram selection, farmers target was for breeding purpose and market value and fattening ability of the ram.
Evaluation of antioxidant enzymes activity in canola under salt stress
Authors: Abili Jafar , Zare Sajjad
Published: February 2019

Salinity is one of the major stresses in arid and semi-arid regions causing adverse effects at physiological, biochemical, and molecular levels, limiting crop productivity. In this research, three canola cultivars (Licord, Talayeh, Zarfam) were compared at 5 salinity levels (control, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mM) for their catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, superoxide dismutase activity,proline and yield in a completely randomized design with 3 replications. In our study, we found that NaCl concentrations greater than 150 and 200 mM caused the irreversible disorders. Increased salt concentrations led to significant changes in the levels of antioxidative enzymes and proline in three canola cultivars. Also, yield rates in three varieties decreased in the presence of NaCl concentrations.
Yield and Seed quality of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) as affected by variety, nitrogen level and harvesting time
Authors: Yesmina Shahnaj , Akhtarb Moushumi , Hossain Belal
Published: February 2019

The experiment was conducted to find out the effect of variety, nitrogen level and harvesting time on yield and seed quality of barley. The treatments used in the experiment consisted of two varieties viz. BARI Barley 4 and BARI Barley 5, three harvesting time viz. 35, 40 and 45 Days after Anthesis (DAA) and nitrogen levels viz. 0, 70, 85 and 100 kg N ha-1 . The experiment was laid out in a spilt- spilt-plot design with three replications assigning the variety to the main plot, harvesting time to the sub-plots and nitrogen level to the sub-sub plots. Variety had significant effects on the all yield attributes except fertile seeds spike-1 . Seed quality parameters viz. normal seeds spike-1 , deformed seeds spike-1 , germination (%) and vigour index were statistically significant. The variety BARI Barley 5 produced higher grain yield and seed quality than BARI Barley 4. Grain yield from BARI Barley 5 and BARI Barley 4 were 4.59 t ha-1 and 4.24 t ha-1 , respectively. Significantly, the highest 1000-seed weight (46.90 g) was produced by BARI Barley 5 than (37.90 g) BARI Barley 4. The result revealed that harvesting time had significant effect on yield and yield attributes and seed quality parameters. Seed yield was highest (4.65 t ha-1 ) when the crop harvested at 40 DAA and it was increased linearly from 35 DAA. Maximum quality seed and 1000-seed weight (43.20 g) was obtained when the crop harvested at 40 DAA. All the yields, yield attributes and seed quality parameters were significantly influenced by nitrogen levels. The highest grain yield (5.14 t ha-1 ) was obtained when BARI Barley 5 variety was fertilized by 100 kg N ha-1 and the lowest (3.14 t ha-1 ) was obtained from control treatments. Normal seeds spike-1 , vigour index, germination (%) were better at 85 kg N ha-1 in variety of BARI Barley 5 than BARI Barley 4. So it can be concluded that BARI Barley 5 showed better result when fertilized with 100 kg N ha-1 and harvested at 40 DAA for getting maximum yield and 85 kg N ha-1 and harvested at 40 DAA for getting better quality seed.
Extent of availability of major nutrients from selected Cereal Crop Residues to dairy ruminants as an alternative Dry Season Forage in Northern Uganda.
Authors: Geofrey Nviiri , Okello H. , Nakyewa P. , Maiteki G. A.
Published: February 2019

This work aimed at determining the availability of major nutrients from cereal crop residues (CRs) of maize, rice and sorghum to dairy ruminants in Northern Uganda. The major nutrient composition of the CRs was determined to establish their potential as alternative dry season forage resources for dairy animals. The CRs were selected based on crop economic importance and availability at the on-set of the dry season in randomly selected sub-counties of Lira, Otuke and Kole districts. Five samples of each CR were obtained from 20 farmer’s fields immediately after harvesting of each crop. Chemical analyses measured included Dry matter (DM), Crude protein (CP), Acid detergent fiber (ADF), Neutral detergent fiber (NDF), Digestible energy (DE), Organic matter digestibility (OM dig), Calcium (Ca), and Phosphorous (P). Fresh maize stover (MSF) had the highest CP (70.5g/kg DM), DE (11.3 MJ/kg DM), and lowest lignifications (49g/kg DM). Rice straw (RS) had a CP (42.1g/kg DM), lowest DE (6.9MJ/kg DM) and OM dig (506 g/kg DM). Dry maize stover (MSD) had the highest lignifications (76.0 g/kg DM) and low OM dig (543 g/kg DM) and sorghum stover (SS) had the lowest CP (40.0 g/kg DM) and a very low DE (7.1MJ/kg DM). The low CP levels and high levels of lignification limit the digestibility of the CR. However, their CF digestibility can be improved using an energy rich by-product, molasses (12.7MJ/kg DM) while the CP limitation due to ligfications can be improved through urea treatment.
Response of different bean genotypes to soil nutrients and water in the semi-arid areas of eastern Kenya
Authors: S. N Nguluu , Karanja David , Macharia David , Kimatu Josphert , Karanja James , Nzioki Henry , Musimba Nashon
Published: February 2019

Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are important legumes in the semi-arid areas of Eastern Kenya. But their production is constrained by water stress within the season and between seasons. A field trial was conducted in the short rains in the year 2011 (October to December) and long rains of 2012 (March to June) at KARI-Katumani (10 35'S and 37014'E, and 1560 metres above mean sea level) to determine the effect of on soil moisture and soil nutrients on grain yield of three market -preferred bean genotypes; namely: Katumani bean 1, NUA 1 and NUA 4. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with three replications with treatments in split plot arrangement. Results showed that bean grain yields of Kat B1 and NUA1 grown on tied ridges with manure at 5 tons ha-1 produced significantly (P<0.05) higher yields than furrow or flat tillage beans with and without manure in the short rains of 2011. In the long rains of 2012, Kat B1 and NAU1 beans grown on tied ridges with manure out yielded all the other treatments. In the same season, grain yield of NUA 4 grown on tied ridges with manure, was higher than beans grown on open furrows, flat tillage with and without manure. In both seasons, Kat B1 produced significantly higher grain yields than all the other genotypes except NUA 4 during the short rains of 2011.
Effect of inoculum source (Sheep or Goat) on in vitro gas production and rumen fermentation parameters of some fodder shrubs in northern Tunisia
Authors: Selmi H. , Abdelwahed Z. , Rouissi A. , Hanene M. , Tibaoui G. , Rouissi H.
Published: February 2019

In order to ensure nutritional characterization of some fodder shrubs and test the effect of inoculum source (sheep and goats) on their digestibility. Four shrubs “Acacia cyanophylla, Atriplex halimus, Opuntia ficus-indica. Var.inermis(cactus) and Medicago arborea” were tested in vitro by incubating them firstly into the rumen fluid of sheep then into goat’s inoculums. The evaluation included chemical composition, total gas production (CO2 and CH4), the prediction of organic matter digestibility (OMD), metabolizable energy (ME), the concentration of total volatile fatty acids (SCFA) and metering ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N). Ruminal fermentation of Opuntia ficus-indica and Medicago arborea have identified more total gas amonts than Atriplex halimus and Acacia cyanophylla. Digestibility of organic matter, metabolisable energy and the concentration of total volatil fatty acids were higher in the case of Opuntia ficus-indica compared to other shrubs. The lowest values were recorded in the Atriplex halimus. The concentration of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), it turned out that Opuntia ficus-indica is the food with less protein concentration (140 and 270.66 mmol/syringe) respectively for sheep and goats. In against part, the Medicago arborea is presented as a good protein source recording of ammonia nitrogen concentration (214.67 mmol/syringe) into the sheep’s rumen and (494.67 mmol/syringe) into the goats inoculum. The source of the inoculum showed a highly significant effect (p > 0.05).
Effect of Spraying at Plant Collar and Adult Trapping on Banana Corm Weevil, Cosmopolites sordidus (Coleoptera: Cucurlionidae)
Authors: Kueh tai Felicia fui
Published: February 2019

The banana corm weevil, Cosmopolites sordidus (Coleoptera: Cucurlionidae) is the most concerned pest in all major banana and plantain growing countries. The first incident of C. sordidus was detected in Kpg. Remun, Gedung, Serian where 90% of the banana plants were infested. An on farm trial to evaluate the effect of chemical spraying at plant collar and trapping was carried out. Untreated plot served as the control. Only chemical spraying at the plant collar showed significant reduction of weevil damage to the plant. Nevertheless the percentage of damage was still high. It is concluded that no single treatment has effectively control this pest. With the introduction of integrated pest management (IPM) strategy which incorporates cultural and chemical controls, the pest infestation has been greatly reduced.
Toxicity of Insecticides against the Diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella L. and Its Parasitoid, Cotesia plutellae, on Cauliflower Crop.
Authors: Hussain Azhar , Abro G.H. , Syed T.S. , Awan M.S. , Khanzada I. , Jarwar L.B. , Sattar M. , Sartaj A.
Published: February 2019

Field studies on efficacy of different insecticides against the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella L. and their toxicity to parasitoid,Cotesia plutellae on cauliflower crop were carried out on farmers fields. The insecticides tested were abamectin, emamectin benzoate, lufenuran, spinosad, endosulfan, profenophos, and a mixture of endosulfan +lufenuran. The pretreatment observation was taken 24 hrs before and post treatment observations were recorded 48, 72 and 96 hrs, 7 and 15 days after application of insecticides. On overall basiss abamectin and emamectin benzoate were found to be the most effective insecticides against Plutella xylostella, followed by profenophos and lufenuron with P. xylostella population of 1.75, 2.12, 3.69, and 4.12 insects per plant, respectively. While, spinosad and lufenuron were found comparatively less toxic to parasitoid, C. plutellae, followed by endosulfan with parasitism of 36.74, 36.72 and 35.65%, respectively. Whereas, abamectin was highly toxic to C. plutellae, with parasitism of 19.83% only.
Optimal mass production technology for sporulation of Verticillium lecanii and Trichoderma harzianum
Authors: Hasan Saba
Published: February 2019

The present study aims at optimization of a suitable mass production technology for growth and sporulation of the biocontrol agents Verticillium lecanii and Trichoderma harzianum. Combinations of various natural solid substrates (Rice, Maize, Arhar, Defatted Soybean, Gram) and laboratory media (SMYA, Complete media, SDA, Czapek’s Dox media ) were evaluated for growth and sporulation of V. lecanii and T. harzianum. Data on CFU, concentration of propagules, dry mycelial weight, conidia production and conidia yield were analyzed. It was observed that among the substrate types tested, the fungal strains grew better and produced high quantity of spores in Rice as growth medium after 21 days of incubation followed by Maize and Arhar. The best liquid media which supported maximum conidial production was SMYA and Complete medium. Also, rate of germination of spores as well as their viability at different aeration rates was tested. It was observed that maximum length of germ tube in minimum duration was observed in Rice as substrate. The viability percentage of the biocontrol agents produced at various aeration rates and agitation speeds showed that change in aeration and agitation did not significantly affect spore viability. Results demonstrated that the fungal species could be rapidly produced with a high conidial yield on natural solid substrates as compared to liquid media by fermentation technology.
Effect of recombinant bovine somatotropin on pregnancy rates of Nellore cows resynchronized with the use of new DIB and third use, and inseminated at fixed-time
Authors: Santos Josemara Silva , Cavalcante Tania , Ferreira Dias Francisca Elda , Mariano de Souza Domenica Palomaris , Falcão Alencariano J.S. , Arrivabene Mônica , Souza Juliano Franco de , Torres de Sousa José  Adalmir , Mayumi Maruo Viviane
Published: February 2019

The objective of the experiment was to evaluate the effects of recombinant bovine somatropin (rbST), and the reuse of the progesterone (P4) releasing devices in resynchronization, on the pregnancy rates of Nellore cows submitted to fixed-time artificial insemination. A group of 123 multiparae Nellore cows, was submitted to a resynchronization protocol: on day 0 a Bovine Intravaginal Device (DIB® ) with 1,0g of P4 was implanted, associated with intramuscular administration of 2,0mg of estradiol benzoate (IM); on day 8 DIB was removed; and 1,0mg of estradiol cypionate, 0,15mg of prostaglandin F2? and 300 UI of equine chorionic gonadotropin were administered; on day 10, fixed-time artificial insemination was conducted (FTAI). The cows were randomized into G1 (n=12) – without rbST / with used Bovine Intravaginal Device, G2 (n=50) – without rbST / with new DIB, G3 (n=11) - with rbST / with used DIB and G4 (n=50) – with rbST/ with new DIB. rbST was introduced on the eighth day of the protocol. Sixty days after TAI, pregnancy diagnoses were conducted, via rectal palpation. Blood samples were taken on day 0, 8 and 10 of the protocol, in order to assess P4 plasma concentrations. Pregnancy rates were statistically evaluated through Generalized Linear Models Theory and their significance was tested with Analysis of Deviance. Pregnancy rates were 58%, 40%, 81% and 48% for G1, G2, G3 and G4, respectively, with significant statistical difference for G3. Plasma concentrations of P4 were not statistically different among groups, or collections. In view of the results obtained, we concluded that the administration of rbST in association with P4 DIB, used for the third time, improves pregnancy rates. Estrus resynchronization and re-insemination positively impacted pregnancy rates.
ACCEPTABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF GRADED LEVELS OF GMELINA ARBOREA AND CASSAVA PEELS CONCENTRATES IN WEST AFRICAN DWARF SHEEP
Authors: Pius Amoka , M Tawose O
Published: February 2019

The nutritive value ,voluntary dry matter intake, and the nutrient digestibility of graded levels of Gmelina arborea and cassava peels concentrates in WAD sheep was investigated. Twelve WAD sheep aged 1-2 years old and weighting 14.00± 0.45 kg were used in a complete randomized design. Diets were formulated such that cassava peels was replaced with Gmelina arborea leaf meal at 0, 33.33, 66.67, 100% levels, designated as diets A, B, C, and D respectively. Diet without Gmelina arborea leaf meal was tagged the control diet. The concentrate feed was compounded to contain 16% CP. Diets with 33.33% inclusion level of Gmelina arborea had significantly (P<0.05) higher dry matter intake (DMI) 598.80g day-1, while the lowest DMI 425.00g day-1 was obtained in animals fed 100% inclusion level of Gmelina arborea. Crude protein intake (CPI) of animals fed diets with 33.33% inclusion levels of Gmelina arborea were significantly (P<0.05) highest, followed by 66.67% inclusion level and the least was observed in 0% inclusion level of Gmelina arborea. Dry matter digestibility (DMD) was significantly (P<0.05) different across the dietary treatments, animals placed on diets with 33.33% inclusion level had the highest DMD, followed by animals on diets with 66.67, 100 and 0% inclusion levels. CP digestibility (P<0.05) increased from 33.33% to 100% inclusion levels of Gmelina arborea leaf meal, the lowest CP digestibility was observed at 0% inclusion level. CF digestibility (P<0.05) increased from 33.33% to 100% inclusion levels of Gmelina arborea leaf meal, while the lowest CF digestibility was observed at 0% inclusion level. N intake increased significantly (P<0.05) with increase in the level of Gmelina arborea inclusion from 33.33% to 100%. N retention was significantly (P<0.05) different, diets with 33.33% Gmelina arborea inclusion had the highest value (64.36g day-1) followed by 66.67%, 100% and the least (52.64g day-1) was at 0% inclusion level of Gmelina arborea.  N balance values also followed the same trend. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that the inclusion of Gmelina arborea leaf meal in WAD rams diet was well tolerated without adverse effect on acceptability, intake and nutrient digestibility, and inclusion level of 33.33% is hereby recommended in ruminants diet for optimum performance and productivity.
A Comparative Study on Productivity of Salmon Aquaculture in Conventional and PLC-equipped Ponds
Authors: Mehranzadeh Mohammad , Gholami Malek Hossein
Published: February 2019

Population growth and insufficient food particularly high-quality protein resources over recent decades have led to greater attention paid to consumption of aquatic species. In this respect, Lorestan provides a huge potential for rearing coldwater fish especially salmons. This comparative study revolves around the productivity of salmon aquaculture in conventional and PLC-equipped ponds across several Lorestan towns including Khorramabad, Selseleh, Dalfan, Azna and Aligudarz. For that purpose, there were three major concepts involved in this study; production function, efficiency and total factor productivity. The results demonstrated that water consumption was steadily lower in the PLC-equipped ponds, thus cutting down on costs. The mortality rate in this method was low and the final yield was high due to several factors including 1) production per unit (hectare) was 2365, whereas it was at most 2078 in the conventional method, 2) the daily growth rate was averagely higher, so that fish body weights reached 350 g at the end of each period, 3) the survival percentage in this method was 100 in case of numerous ponds, suggesting the desirability of such method. Therefore, it can be stated that productivity of fish rearing ponds is remarkably higher supported by PLC methods as compared to the conventional methods. In order to measure the total factor production, the Cobb-Douglas function was employed to find out labor, fish fry, water flow rate, useful area and food left a positive impact on the fish production function by 17, 28, 29, 43 and 49 percent, respectively. Efficiency is another aspect of comparing the two methods. It can be divided into three components including technical, allocative and economic efficiency. Moreover, the PLC-equipped ponds are more efficient than the conventional methods.
STOMACH CONTENT ANALYSIS OF SOME SELECTED FISH SPECIES FROM GILIMA RIVER, TAURA LOCAL GOVERNMENT, JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA.
Authors: Haruna Auwalu
Published: February 2019

Four hundred (400) samples comprising eighty (80) samples each from five different species of Oreochromis niloticus, Bagrus bayad, Lates niloticus, Hydrocynus brevis and Synodontis vermiculatus were collected in batches using gill nets from 24th March -16th September, 2014; food and feeding habits were then assessed by analyzing the stomach content. The samples ranged in size from 525cm total length and 4.745g in weight. The stomach content analysis using frequency of occurrence method revealed that Oreochromis niloticus were herbivorous with dietary preference for plants and plant materials (47.27%), detritus (23.21%) and unidentifiable materials (6.06%), Bagrus bayad as carnivorous with dietary preference for fishes (52.17%), insects (23.57%), detritus (7.50%), Lates niloticus were also carnivorous with fishes (62.00%), fish parts (31.30%), insects (4.6%), Hydrocynus brevis proved carnivorous with dietary preference for fishes (42.16%), fish parts (17.83%), and Synodontis vermiculatus as an omnivore with dietary preference of plant materials (18.71%), fishes (12.69%), insect (12.19%) and detritus (17.48%).
On The Discrete Nature of The Gravitational Force
Authors: Boatmun Dewey Lewis
Published: February 2019

The standard model of particle physics has been extremely successful in unifying the strong, weak, and electromagnetic forces through the unitary product group SU(3) X SU(2) X U(1); and general relativity has been equally accurate in describing gravitation. No attempt thus far, however, has managed to incorporate general relativity into the standard model—or any other model. And while no attempt will, herein, be made to accomplish that endeavor, perhaps some of the insights will constitute a helpful step in that direction.  In the following pages, gravitation and electromagnetism are looked at in new and different ways.
In Silico Characterization of Ageratum Enation Virus, Ageratum Leaf Curl Betasatellite and Marigold Leaf Curl Alphasatellite Infecting an Important Ornamental Plant Marigold (Tagetes Patula) in Indian Subcontinent.
Authors: Marwal Avinash , Prajapat Rajneesh , Gaur R K
Published: February 2019

Ornamental plants act as an alternate host of begomoviruses and its associated satellite molecules in the absence of main crop. Marigold (Tagetes patula) an important ornamental plant, widely cultivated in India were found infected with three begomovirus components i.e. Ageratum enation virus (AEV: KC589699), Ageratum leaf curl betasatellite (ALCB: KC589700) and Marigold leaf curl alphasatellite (MLCuA: KC206078). This study supported evidence that virus associated with Marigold was studied through In Silico analysis for in depth study. The phylogenetic studies revealed closeness to other virus prominent in other neighbouring countries and can be replicated by other begomovirus species which increases the possibility of recombination and reassortment events.