bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Foreign Language Anxiety Relationship with Language Achievement of EFL Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsaleem Abdulrahman Akram
Published: December 2019

This study is conducted to evaluate learning and teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) since English is still treated as a foreign language. Despite the prevailing high-level anxiety in Saudi learners of the English language, there are limited researches available to study the impact of language anxiety on the achievement of the student in a particular language. This literature search study explored the underlying causes and impacts of foreign language anxiety (FLA) and then studied these impacts on the language achievement of Saudi students in EFL classrooms in KSA. Credible academic researches and conference papers are critically reviewed in the context of the relationship between foreign language anxiety and language achievement of EFL students in Saudi Arabia. The findings of the review revealed that government initiatives and exposure to globalization in Saudi Arabia, students are encouraged to get expertise in English through EFL courses. However, the review of literature demonstrated that Saudi students experience anxiety while learning English as an unknown language. Additionally, the level of understanding in students of FLA negatively affected their accomplishment. Therefore, the collaborative strategies in classrooms are needed with complete participation of language instructors and favourable environment with positive competition building strategies encourage EFL students to enhance learning. 
Madness and the Alienation of Intellectuals in Saul Bellow’s World of Fiction
Authors: Marrouchi Ramzi , Azmi Mohd Nazri Latiff
Published: December 2019

This paper crystallizes how and why Bellow’s intellectual heroes in his later novels are men of ideas, dissenters and revolutionists of the age, though marginalized, victimized, degraded, disregarded, and forgotten in spite of their celebrity and contributions to American culture. The reason behind this partly exists in their being idealists, men of imagination and letters and partly because of the spoilt capitalistic American culture. Herzog satirizes the norms of the masses, and ironically and sympathetically is mocked by Bellow himself for his being too utopian. Henderson, Sammler and Humboldt sketch the decline of humanism and the agony of the intellectual. Corde illustrates this humanistic fall through the crisis of the communist system in Romania. Because of this cultural backdrop, American intellectuals are destined to suffer, feel agony and alienation. Here Bellow suggests subversion and deconstruction to the norms of his society. More strikingly, he adopts the strategy of being ‘forever en route,’ forever re-evaluating one’s beliefs and ideals. The madness of his heroes is only a moment wisdom and over consciousness about the necessity of replacing the culture of masses and capitalism. Deeply behind this, Bellow maintains that the promises of the Enlightenment morality—freedom, faith, happiness, altruism, reason, wisdom, humanism, self-autonomy and harmony—have surprisingly turned into their opposites, and have been supplanted by new terms of utilitarian, nihilist, ‘irrational’ discipline characterized by amorality, illusion, risk and the crisis of knowledge.
Analysis of the inbreeding level in the Polish population of the Alpine Dachsbracke dog breed in the years 2000-2016
Authors: Bednarek Elżbieta , Sławińska Anna , Mroczkowski Sławomir
Published: December 2019

The aim of the study was to analyse the level of inbreeding in the Alpine Dachsbracke dog breed. The research was conducted using pedigrees of 405 individuals of this breed (195 male and 210 female), born in the years 2000-2016. The inbreeding coefficients (Fx) were estimated based on four-generation pedigrees. The individual inbreeding coefficients ranged from 0% to 25%. The average inbreeding coefficient for the population was 2.25% and did not differ between sexes (P>0.05). For 49.4% of individuals, the mean Fx value was 4.55%. The Fx values between years of birth were highly significant (P<0.0001). The trend analysis showed no significant changes in Fx during the period analysed. The mean inbreeding coefficient in the Polish population of Alpine Dachsbracke dogs was not high, but attention should be paid to the inbreeding coefficients of certain individuals, and mating of closely related individuals should be avoided.
Treated and untreated anovulation associated with ovarian and uterine blood flow in Arabian mares (a case study)
Authors: Abo El-Maaty Amal M. , El Baghdady Yehia , ElShahat Khalid A. , Helmy Mahmoud A. , Abdelnaby Elshymaa A.
Published: December 2019

To investigate the development of treated and untreated hormonal anovulatory follicles (AnOV) associated with uterine and ovarian vascularization, rectal Doppler ultrasound of seven Arabian mares was performed before and after the development of an AnOV. In addition to measuring the diameter, area and volume of the follicle, daily colour and power Doppler scans were analysed in order to measure red, blue and power blood flow areas in pixels. Serum levels of estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), leptin, insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured as well. The diameter (cm), area (cm2), volume (cm3), area in pixels, antral area in pixels, circumference, and percentage change in circulation of the AnOV progressively increased (P<0.0001) after the disappearance of uterine oedema compared to the values obtained during oedema. The blue, total colour and power areas of the AnOV increased after the disappearance of uterine oedema (P<0.0001). When the antral area was excluded, the percentage of the granulosa layer in the colour and power Doppler decreased after the disappearance of uterine oedema. The ipsilateral uterine horn and uterine body had significantly (P<0.0001) high blue and red blood flow vascularization areas in the presence of uterine oedema. The AnOV was associated with low P4, IGF-1 (P<0.001), and leptin (P<0.05). Treatment of the AnOV follicle with GnRH resulted in its luteinization and induced ovulation 9 and 30 days later. It can be concluded that an abrupt increase in blood flow due to decreased progesterone and E2 and increased IGF-1 causes anovulation. The absence of oestrous behaviour and high uterine-oedema-associated follicular and ipsilateral uterine horn vascularization are predictors of ovulation failure.
Changes in the quality of table eggs depending on storage method and time
Authors: Kopacz Magdalena , Drażbo Aleksandra
Published: December 2019

The aim of the research was to determine the changes occurring in table eggs depending on storage time at room temperature and in refrigeration conditions. The experimental material consisted of 75 eggs, which were randomly divided into five groups of 15. The first group (the control) comprised fresh eggs, which were tested on the day they were collected. The remaining 60 eggs were divided into two groups (30 eggs in each) and stored under different conditions for a period of 28 days. Eggs from the first group (I) were stored at room temperature, which was about 20°C with 50% humidity. Eggs from the second group (II) were placed in cold storage at 4°C and about 30% humidity. After 14 and 28 days of storage, the physicochemical properties of the eggs were analysed: the height of the air space, egg density, egg weight loss, albumen and shell quality, and yolk colour. The results indicate that the storage method had a significant (P≤0.05) effect on most of the egg quality traits analysed. Eggs stored at 4°C were of good quality and were classified as EXTRA class eggs even after 28 days. Eggs stored at 20°C were eliminated as Class A eggs as early as day 14, and on day 28 their quality disqualified them as fit for consumption. To sum up, food eggs should be refrigerated before being sold to the consumer to prevent premature ageing and thus deterioration of quality.
The influence of the housing system on selected production
features of chickens of Ross 308 parent stock
Authors: Biesiada-Drzazga Barbara , Majkowski Patryk
Published: December 2019

The aim of the research was to analyse the effect of the housing system on selected reproductive
traits of parental stock of Ross 308 meat chickens. The study was conducted on two flocks, one of
which was kept in a chicken house on a concrete floor entirely covered with litter, and the second in
a chicken house in which one-third of the floor was a plastic slated floor and the other two-thirds was
a concrete floor covered with litter. During the 38-week laying period, an average of 179.7 eggs were
obtained from laying hens kept in the chicken house with a litter floor, including 168.2 hatching eggs,
and 187,4 and 175.6 eggs, respectively, from hens kept in the chicken house with a slatted/litter floor
(differences not statistically confirmed). The housing system non-significantly influenced feed intake
and the number of eggs laid depending on where they were laid (inside or outside the nest). In the litter
system, eggs outside the nest accounted for 3.1% and in litter/slatted floor system 9.8% of the total
number of eggs laid; the differences were statistically non-significant.
The effect of increased methionine in broiler chicken
diets on the quality of breast muscles at different
times of vacuum storage under refrigeration
Authors: Zonenberg Łucja , Drażbo Aleksandra
Published: December 2019

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of different levels of DL-methionine in feed
for broiler chickens on the quality of vacuum-packed breast muscles stored under refrigeration.
The material for the study was 72 breast muscles from 35-day-old broiler chickens fed
diets with varying content of DL-methionine. The control group received a basal diet without
additional DL-methionine, while the experimental groups received compound feeds supplemented
with 0.08% or 0.24% DL-methionine. At 35 days of age, 24 birds from each group
were randomly selected and experimentally slaughtered. After the carcasses were dissected,
8 right breast muscles were selected from each feeding group and analysed immediately after
cooling. The remaining muscles were vacuum-packed and after 7 and 14 days of storage physicochemical
and sensory analyses were performed to assess the influence of storage time on
changes in their quality. The methionine level was not found to affect the sensory properties
of the breast muscles, but the meat of birds receiving a higher level of this amino acid had
better shear force and water-holding capacity in comparison to the control group. After just
7 days, the results of the analyses of vacuum-packed refrigerated muscles showed a negative
effect of storage time on the capacity of the muscle tissue to bind water, as well as changes
in the proportion of red colour in the muscles. However, it is worth noting that the sensory
quality of the muscles deteriorated only after 14 days of storage.
Growth of lambs receiving a supplementary milk
replacer or reared traditionally in a flock of Polish
Heath sheep
Authors: Rant Witold , Augustin Marta Luisa , Radzik-Rant Aurelia , Orłowski Emil , Bednarczyk Magdalena , Niżnikowski Roman , Świątek Marcin
Published: December 2019

The aim of the study was to compare the body weight gain and survival rate of lambs receiving
a milk replacer as supplementary feed with lambs reared traditionally. The research
was conducted in a flock of Polish Heath sheep. Of 244 lambs born, 42 lambs from multiple
births were given supplementary feed. The lambs received the milk replacer until the 35th
day of rearing. Body weight was monitored at birth and on days 28, 56 and 100 of life. Reproductive
parameters and survival rate of lambs were derived from breeding documentation.
There were no significant differences in the survival rate of lambs in the two groups, which
was above 80%. The average birth weight of lambs reared traditionally and of those receiving
the milk replacer was similar. During the entire rearing period, the lambs that required
supplementary feeding grew more slowly. Twin lambs receiving the supplement and twin
lambs reared traditionally had similar body weight and daily gains up to the 56th day of
life, but the twin lambs receiving supplementary feed had a significantly lower body weight
at day 100 and growth rate during the entire rearing period. The growth rate of triplets fed
supplementary milk replacer was not significantly different from that of triplets reared traditionally
in any period of the study.
Trends in population change and the sustainable socio-economic development of cities in North-West Russia
Authors: Anokhin Anatoly A. , Shelest Ksenia D. , Tikhonova Marina A.
Published: December 2019

The Northwestern Federal District is a Russian macro-region that is a unique example of a model region. It accounts for 10 % of the country’s total area and 9.5 % of its population. This article aims to trace the patterns of city distribution across the region, to assess the conditions of differently populated cities and towns, and to identify sustainability trends in their socio-economic development. Population change is a reliable indicator of the competitiveness of a city. As a rule, a growing city performs well economically and has a favourable investment climate and high-paid jobs. The analysis revealed that population change occurred at different rates across the federal district in 2002—2017. A result of uneven socio-economic development, this irregularity became more serious as globalisation and open market advanced. The study links the causes and features of growth-related differences to the administrative status, location, and economic specialisation of northwestern cities. The migration behaviour of the population and the geoeconomic position are shown to be the main indicators of the sustainable development of a city.
Regionalisation in Northern Europe and the Northern Dimension in Russian political discourse
Authors: Kolosov Vladimir A. , Sebentso Alexander B.
Published: December 2019

The progress and sustainability of international cross-border region formation is a major concern for Russia, a country bordering sixteen states. In the early 2000s, the development of regions with Russian participation was at its height in northwestern Europe. Cross-border regions arise both naturally, stemming from various functional relations, and as a result of political decisions. In the latter case, political discourse is an important factor in successful region-building. The Northern Dimension (ND) programme, which was launched in 1997, embodied the principle of depoliticised cooperation — Europe’s ‘new regionalism’. This article aims to evaluate the role of the ND in the federal and regional political discourse of 1997—2016, to determine its place among other cross-border cooperation projects, and to follow changes in the understanding of its goals. The study relies on data from the Integrum agency, which has built up the most comprehensive digital archive of federal and regional printed and online media. The federal discourse on the ND reflected the whole set of relations between Russia and the EU. The idea about the crisis of the programme came from the discrepancy between the expectations aroused by political discourse and the actual results of cooperation. The study shows the ND-related discourse changed over the study period and stresses profound differences between federal and regional discourses.
The development of a Russian-Polish cross-border region: the role of the Kaliningrad agglomeration and the Tri-City (Gdansk—Gdynia—Sopot)
Authors: Palmowski Tadeusz , Fedorov Gennady M.
Published: December 2019

Until 1991 ties between entities located on either side of the Russian-Polish border were virtually non-existent. There were, however, favourable physical, geographical, economic, social, and ekistical conditions for the development of a cross-border region. Since the early 1990s, cooperation between administrative units and municipalities, businesses, and non-governmental organisations has been developing on an institutional basis. Euroregions and cross-border cooperation programmes have become major contributors to cross-border region-building. On either side of the border, there are socio-economic nodes between which axes of cross-border interaction are emerging. The most powerful axis is the Tri-City (Gdansk-Gdynia-Sopot) — the Kaliningrad agglomeration. A systemic approach is used to analyse a variety of relationships, reflected in a map showing the diversity of geographical areas of cooperation. The University of Gdansk and the Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University are playing an important role in the development of Russian—Polish relations. Although the intensity of cross-border ties has decreased in recent years amid tensions between Russia and the West, there is hope that bilateral socio-economic benefits will encourage the restoration and development of collaborations and the Russian—Polish cross-border region will continue to evolve.
The changing role of border regions in the regional policies of the EU and Russia
Authors: Kuznetsov Alexey V. , Kuznetsova Olga V.
Published: December 2019

This article analyses how the role of border regions has changed in the regional policies of Russia and European countries since the early 1990s. The study aims to estimate the efficiency of Russia’s regional policy with regard to border regions (its completeness, a focus on actual problems, etc.) and to compare it with that of European counterparts. The article relies on publications on the experience of EU countries, earlier contributions from Russian researchers, federal regulations, and statistics on the regional distribution of federal investment in fixed assets. It is shown that the federal border region policy is largely a reflection of the features and problems of Russia’s regional policy as a whole. Currently, the development of cross-border cooperation is affected more strongly by national security concerns than by economic growth considerations. Cross-border cooperation is no longer part of the regional policy. Border regions, however, have received an increasing proportion of federal investments in recent years, particularly, amid the reunification with the Crimea. The study calls for better coordination between different areas of the federal socio-economic policy on border regions and closer attention to border regions’ foreign economic ties, particularly, within the implementation of the Strategy for the Spatial Development of the Russian Federation.
Entrepreneurial capital of the region: the concept, manifestations and spatial localisation
Authors: Ponomarev Oleg B.
Published: December 2019

An important element of the explanation why an entrepreneur carries out high-risk transactions is the evaluation and analysis of her or his inner qualities. Thus, there is a need to identify the connection between entrepreneurial risk and capital. At the regional level, there is an ongoing academic discussion as to who the carrier of entrepreneurial capital is and how this capital can be measured and evaluated in view of its direct influence on the business environment and economic growth opportunities of a certain territory. This article presents the findings of a study into the complex structure of the concept of regional entrepreneurial capital and establishes how this concept is connected with such categories as entrepreneurial spirit, entrepreneurial substance, and entrepreneurial ability. Using an estimate of the number of economic entities (individual entrepreneurs and farmers; small, medium, and large enterprises) per 1,000 population, the study demonstrates cross-regional differences in entrepreneurial activity as a manifestation of entrepreneurial capital, including those in the Northwestern Federal District.
Coğrafi sosyo-ekonomik mahrumiyetin ve hava kirleticilerinin bebek doğum ağırlığı üzerindeki etkisi
Authors: ORAK Nur H.
Published: December 2019

Klasik çevresel sağlık risk tahmin metotları,
insan-çevre sistemlerinin döngüselliğine çözüm getirmede ve çevresel kirletici
değişkenlerinin insan sağlığı üzerindeki olası etkilerinin incelenmesinde
yetersiz kalmaktadır. Bu çalışmada Bayesian metotları kullanarak nitrojen
dioksit (NO2) maruziyeti, partikül madde (PM), sosyoekonomik
mahrumiyet ve bebek doğum ağırlığı arasındaki ilişkinin New York şehri örneği
üzerinde araştırılması hedeflenmiştir. Epidemiyolojide NO2 ve PMmaruziyetinin olası karıştırıcı etkenler (ör. vücut kitle indeksi)
üzerindeki  etkilerini göz önüne
alabilmek için, ve NO2, PM ve değişkenlerin (ör. sosyoekonomik
mahrumiyet) teorik etkileri arasında iki yönlü ilişkinin incelenmesi için
Bayesian Ağ (BA) modeli geliştirilmiştir. Geliştirilen PM-NO2-B etki modeli ile farklı türdeki bilgileri biraraya getirerek risk analizi
gerçekleştirilmiştir. Bu makalede sunulan modelleme yaklaşımı halk sağlığına
etki eden risk faktörleri arasındaki doğrusal olmayan ilişkinin değerlendirilmesi
konusunda önemli katkıda bulunacaktır.
Ağsız Yöntem Uygulamaları için Trigonometri Tabanlı Radyal Özelliğe Sahip Yeni Bir Temel Fonksiyon
Authors: ALTINKAYNAK Atakan
Published: December 2019

Bu çalışmada,
ağsız yöntemler için radyal özelliğe sahip yeni bir temel fonksiyon
önerilmiştir. Önerilen fonksiyon, iki boyutta, dört farklı problemde, ağsız
yöntemlerde sıklıkla kullanılan Ters Multikuadrik ve Gauss fonksiyonlarıyla
birlikte test edilmiştir. Test problemlerinin üç tanesi 2. mertebeden
mühendislik problemlerini içerirken son test problemi 4. mertebeden bir
mühendislik problemi uygulaması olmuştur. 2. mertebeden test problemlerinde
farklı sınır koşulları ve problem türleri incelenmiştir. Yapılan sayısal deneyler,
önerilen fonksiyonun Ters Multikuadrik ve Gauss fonksiyonlarına kıyasla daha az
nokta sayılarında benzer mertebedeki hatalara ulaşabildiğini göstermiştir.
Ayrıca nokta sayısının artmasıyla aynı mertebedeki hatalar için
kullanılabilecek şekil/ölçek parametresinin (epsilon) diğer iki fonksiyona kıyasla daha geniş bir aralıkta seçilebildiği
gösterilmiştir. Dolayısıyla, önerilen fonksiyon, ağsız yöntem uygulamalarında
bir alternatif olarak kullanılabilecektir.
Improved Mathematical Models of Thermal Residual Stresses in Functionally Graded Adhesively Bonded Joints: A Critical Review
Authors: Apalak M. Kemal , Demirbas M. Didem
Published: December 2019

Functionally graded material (FGM) concept has been applied successfully in order to improve/design heat transfer, electric and electronic conductivity, static and dynamic strengths of adhesive joints by reliving stress distributions in both adhesive and adherend materials. This new
approach relies on tailoring material composition of adhesive and adherends along one or more coordinate directions. Thermal residual stresses in adhesive joints are a vital issue in terms of the joint strength. FGM concept also allows to relieve/control thermal residual stresses encountered
in adhesive joints due to mismatches between coefficients of thermal expansion of adhesive and adherend materials. Mathematical models and solutions on the thermal residual stress analysis have been continuously improved. This paper reviews the current status of mathematical models, and offers
an improved mathematical model and numerical solution method by considering two-dimensional thermal stress and deformation states of adhesively bonded bi-directional functionally graded clamped plates subjected to an in-plane heat flux along one of the ceramic edges. This mathematical model
assumes the material properties of the functionally graded plates to vary with a power law along two in-plane directions and not through the plate thickness direction, in particular, considers the spatial derivatives of thermal and mechanical properties of the material, and enables the investigation
of the effects of the bi-directional composition variations and spatial derivative terms on the displacement, strain and stress distributions. The heat conduction and Navier equations describing the twodimensional thermo-elastic problem are discretized using finite-difference method, and the
set of linear equations are solved using the pseudo singular value method. The functionally graded plates relieve both stress and strain distributions and levels in the adhesive layer and in the plates even though the adhesive layer is still ungraded. The spatial derivatives of mechanical
and thermal properties of the local material become more effective on the strain and stress distributions of the plates and adhesive layer. The model, disregarding these derivative terms, exhibits sensitivity to small changes in the compositional gradients (n, m) by adjusting
the variations of ceramic volume fraction along the x - and y-directions, respectively, and instability in the calculation of stress and strain distributions and levels. However, the improved model with material derivatives, which considers the effects of these derivative terms,
predicts stress and strain distributions and levels complying with changes in the compositional gradient exponents.
Adhesion of Colloids and Bacteria to Porous Media: A Critical Review
Authors: Li Runwei , Wei Changfu , Cheng Hefa , Chen Gang
Published: December 2019

Adhesion of colloids and bacteria to various surfaces is important for a variety of environmental phenomena including microbial biofouling and contamination prevention. Under saturated conditions, both colloids and bacteria have the opportunity to attach to porous medium surfaces. Under
water unsaturated conditions or in the presence of the air-water interface, besides the porous medium surfaces, colloids and bacteria can also attach to the air-water interface, including the air-water-solid threephase interface. The magnitudes of adhesion of colloids and bacteria are correlated
to the interactions of the colloids and bacteria with the surfaces, which are a function of their surface physicochemical properties. In this review, adhesion theories are revisited and adhesion of colloids and bacteria to porous media and the air-water interface is discussed. The interaction
forces are quantified using various theoretical models including the DLVO models and used to interpret related adhesion. The impact of surfactants on colloid and bacterial adhesion is also discussed. The review also includes the implementation of the adhesion theory in interpreting colloid
and bacterial fate and transport in the subsurface soil.
Effect of Processing Methods on the Physicochemical, Antinutrient and Pasting Properties of Three Commonly Consumed Soup Thickeners in Nigeria
Authors: Eke-Ejiofor J. , Awajiogak C. U.
Published: December 2019

The effect of processing methods on the physicochemical, functional, anti-nutrient factors and pasting properties of Mucuna sloanei (ukpo), Brachystegia eurycoma (achi) and Daterium microcarpum (ofor) were assessed using standard methods. Flour from these seeds were produced after boiling and soaking at different time intervals.  The moisture and ash contents of the three soup thickeners ranged between 5.58- 8.92% and 1.14-5.59% with sample B1 (achi boiled for 15 min) and C4 (ofor soaked for 48 h) having the lowest while sample B2 (achi boiled for 30 min) and C1 (ofor boiled for 15 min) having the highest. Crude Fat and fibre contents ranged from 2.90-10.95% and 1.30-14.39% with samples C1 and A1 (ukpo boiled for 15 min) as the highest respectively. Crude protein and carbohydrate contents of soup thickeners ranged between 9.19 -21.31% and 45.01-71.38% with samples A3 (ukpo soaked for 24 h) and B4 (achi soaked for 48 h) as the highest. Sugar and starch contents ranged from 2.61-5.04% and from 69.00-74.27% respectively with sample C4 and A4 (ukpo soaked for 48 h) as the lowest and sample A3 and B3 (Achi soaked for 24 h) as the highest. Amylose content increased with boiling and decreased with soaking which was the reverse amylopectin. Functional properties showed bulk density and dispersibility to range between 0.56-0.76 g/ml and 32.50-48-00% with sample B3 (achi soaked for 24 h) as highest in both cases. Solubility and swelling power ranged from 32.56-107.51% and from 4.61-8.72 g/g with sample A2 (ukpo boiled for 30 min) and A1 having the highest respectively. Foam capacity ranged from 2.50-29.50% with sample C2 (ofor soaked for 48 h) having the lowest and sample A1 having the highest, while the least gelation concentration of the three soup thickeners recorded 2.00% for all the treatments. Water absorption capacity ranged between 0.67-10.46 ml/g with B1 having the lowest and sample C2 having the highest. Antinutritional factors showed that phytate recorded 0.01 g/kg for all the treatments, tannin ranged from 2.22-40.71 mg/kg, oxalate between 3.40-7.90mg/100g and saponin between 2.60-9.18% with different treatments affecting the antinutrients. Free fatty acid, peroxide value, saponification and acid values increased with an increase in treatment time while iodine value decreased as processing time increased. Pasting result showed that treatment and time affected pasting properties with the highest values as peak viscosity 16429RVU, trough viscosity 9231RVU, breakdown 7858RVU, final viscosity 19977RVU and set back viscosity 13004RVU respectively. Peak time and pasting temperature ranged between 1.60-6.10 min and between 50.25-76.18°C for the different treatments. This study shows the need for appropriate treatment and time combination for better nutrient availability and detoxification of these seeds as soup thickeners.
Numerical Investigation on Steel Square HSS Columns Strengthened with Polymer-mortar
Authors: M. El-Sayed Khaled , S. Debaiky Ahmed , N. Khalil Nader , M. El-Shenawy Ibrahim
Published: December 2019

This paper presents the results of finite element (FE) analysis of axially loaded square hollow structural steel (HSS) columns, strengthened with polymer-mortar materials. Three-dimensional nonlinear FE model of HSS slender columns were developed using thin-shell element, considering geometric and material nonlinearity. The polymer-mortar strengthening layer was incorporated using additional layers of the shell element. The FE model has been performed and then verified against experimental results obtained by the authors [1]. Good agreement was observed between FE analysis and experimental results. The model was then used in an extended parametric study to examine selected AISC square HSS columns with different cross-sectional geometries, slenderness ratios, thicknesses of mortar strengthening layer, overall geometric imperfections, and level of residual stresses. The effectiveness of polymer-mortar in increasing the column’s axial strength is observed. The study also demonstrated that polymer-mortar strengthening materials is more effective for higher slenderness ratios. An equivalent steel thickness is also accounted for the mortar strengthened HSS columns to discuss the effectiveness of polymer-mortar strengthening system. The polymer-mortar strengthening system is more effective for HSS columns with higher levels of out-of-straightness. Level of residual stress has a slight effect on the gain in the column’s axial strength strengthened with polymer-mortar.
Determinants of Household Economic Sustainability of Members of Agricultural Cooperatives in West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State
Authors: Merdassa Tolera , Nakkiran S.
Published: December 2019

The study analyzed is the of determinants of Household Economic Sustainability of Members in Agricultural Cooperatives in West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State. The study units and the sampled respondents were 1112 and 294 respectively. The study units were selected purposively. To address the objective of this study, both qualitative and quantitative data were used. For the data analysis SPSS (version 20) was used. Based on this, the outcome of the study showed that (62.6%) were economically unsustainable; at 95% confidence level. Large family size, inefficient use of family labor, less saving habit, less members’ education and training were found to be determinants of household economic sustainability.
Morpho-functional Changes in Liver due to Long Term Consumption of Instant Noodles in Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: Saleh Ibrahim , Josiah Obaghwarhievwo Adjene , Eunice Obiajulu Igumbor , Mike Osagie Odigie
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Food is a basic requirement for the survival of living organisms, and is also necessary for growth, development, replacement and repairs of worn-out tissues, as well as energy production for various body functions, among others.

Aim: Current study investigated the histo-architectural and biochemical changes in the liver due to prolonged consumption of instant noodles by Wistar rats.

Methods: Fifty (50) adult Wistar rats of an average weight of 200 g were procured for the study. Following two weeks of acclimatization, the animals were randomly assigned into five (5) groups (A, B, C, D and E) of ten (10) rats each. Group A received cooked instant noodle (Type A) only; whereas, group B rats were fed with cooked instant noodles with its spice. Group C received cooked instant noodles (type B) only.  Group D received cooked instant noodles type B with its spice while group E were fed with grower marsh (control). After thirty (30) days of administration of test substances, rats were sacrifice by cervical dislocation and liver tissue obtained for histological technique and bioassay of selected antioxidant enzyme levels [Catalase, Malonyldialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide Dismutase (SOD)]. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 21) to evaluate the result obtained. Histological section of liver of the treated animals showed cellular degenerative changes, hypertrophy, hepatic steatosis and mild fibrosis which were sparsely distributed as compared to the control group.

Results: Biochemical assay of oxidative stress markers revealed that MDA levels were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in all treated liver groups as compared with the parallel control animals. Concomitantly, the levels of SOD levels were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in the treated liver groups as compared with the control.

Conclusion: Thus, long consumption of instant noodles exert toxic effects by promoting oxidative stress in the liver tissue of adult Wistar rats.

Recommendation: Further study aimed at corroborating these findings should be carried out.
Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System (DRIS) in Determining Mineral Status of Cotton in the Cotton Zones of Benin
Authors: Amonmidé Isidore , D. Dagbénonbakin Gustave , B. Irénikatché Akponikpè P. , C. Agbangba Emile , G. Tovihoudji Pierre
Published: December 2019

This study aimed at developing parameters of the Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System (DRIS) model for the assessment nutrient status for cotton grown in Benin.. Soil physical and chemical characteristics, leaves nutrient content (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) and seed-cotton yield were assessed on samples gathered from 150 farmers’ fields in 2018. Nutrient indices were computed using standard DRIS procedures. Results showed that phosphorus was in excess in the petiole and the whole leaves but in deficit in the limb. Potassium content was adequate according in the petiole and leaves but deficient in the limb. Ca content was limiting in the limb or the whole leaves and adequate in the petiole. Based on the diagnosis made in the petioles, Mg was deficient while adequate in the limbs and leaves. In the limb, the order of the macronutrients is as follows: K> P> N. On the other side, in the petiole and the whole leaves, the order of the macronutrients becomes: P> K> N. In the whole leaves and limb, the order of the secondary elements is as follows: Mg> Ca, whereas in the petiole the order of the secondary elements becomes: Ca> Mg.
Bioinformatics Analysis on DNA Barcode Sequences for Species Identification: A Review
Authors: Vu Huyen-Trang , Le Ly
Published: December 2019

Classification of organisms is the primary step in management of biodiversity, breeding, conservation and development of populations and distinguishing adulterant objects. There are many approaches in taxonomic identification, from morphological, PCR-based to sequence-based techniques. Molecular methods give more accurate results than morphological comparisons and are independent of plant stages. PCR-based methods are low-cost but their limited information gives less reproducibility and can only distinguish samples among determined groups. In contrast, in sequence-based methods each nucleotide site is considered as genetic information hence a sequence of nucleotide represents large data, which is highly specific and more stable than PCR bands. Establishment of worldwide DNA library for barcoding is essential. There were previous reviews on screenings and applications of barcodes in different taxa. In this review we discussed common bioinformatics analyses as well as some new improved techniques relying on barcoding approaches.
Evaluation of the Physicochemical and Bacteriological Study of the Three Sites in Ain Sebaa-Zenata Region after the Installation of the Anti-pollution Station of the East Coast of Grand Casablanca
Authors: Hdia Jalal , Elkhalfi Bouchra , Wina Chaimaa , Aboudaoud Meryem , Targhalline Laila , Boucherif Brahim , Soukri Abdelaziz
Published: December 2019

The Moroccan coastline has been subjected exceptionally to the growth of urban agglomerations as well as to the negative effect of various industrial activities, together with the contributions of watersheds, wadis and streams that dump their sewage and the waste generated by cities and their periphery.

Aim: First of all, we carry out an evaluation of the Physicochemical, bacteriological state of the bathing water sample of the beaches of Ain Sebaâ-Zenata through the search of the bacteriological and chemical contaminants in three sites by reinforcing them to the national norms and standards which govern the quality of the bathing water, on the other hand, we compare these results with those found before the inauguration of the anti-pollution station East of Greater Casablanca.

Study Design: Study of the seawater quality of three swimming beaches.

Place and Duration of Study: Seawater was collected on 15/04/2017 from 3 sites in the Ain Sebaa- Zenata (Douar Abdellah Belhaj Beach, El Nahla Beach, Zenata Beach) region of the city of Casablanca after the installation of the anti-pollution station.

Methodology: Our job articulates on two axes: On the one hand, the study and the analysis of the physicochemical, bacteriological quality of the seawater after the installation of EST Casablanca anti-pollution station at the level of three sites (Douar Abdellah Belhaj Beach, El Nahla Beach, Zenata Beach). On the other hand, the comparison of these results with others already carried out before the development of this station via the same characteristics: Physico-chemical, bacteriological.

Results: In the light of the acquired results, a correlation was pointed out between the Physicochemical and bacteriological examination in comparison with the standards in the three studied sites, which were previously recognized as heavily contaminated bathing areas before the installation of the station. It supports the conclusion that this anti-pollution system has a beneficial and advantageous effect and confirms its cleansing role.

Conclusion: The current physico-chemical and bacteriological results of seawater in the Ain Sebaaa - Zenata region after the installation of the anti-pollution station show a significant improvement in the quality of this bathing area as well as the beneficial effect of this plant, which performs a very considerable purification function.
Nutrient Uptake, Soil Fertility Status and Nutrient Use Efficiency of Rice as Influenced by Inorganic and Bio-fertilizer in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal
Authors: Malo Mousumi , Sarkar Anwesha
Published: December 2019

Aims: To study the influence of inorganic and bio-fertilizers on nutrient uptake, soil fertility status and nutrient use efficiency of rice (Oryza sativa L.).

Place and Duration of Study: The field trial was conducted in the experimental farm of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India during kharif season of 2016.

Methodology: The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design with seven treatments each of which was replicated three times. The experiment was comprised of seven treatments viz. T1: control, T2: chemical fertilizer at 100% recommended dose of NPK, T3: 50% recommended dose of NP + 100% RDK + Bacillus polymyxa, T4: 75% recommended dose of NP + 100% RDK + Azotobacter chroococcum, T5: 75% recommended dose of NP + 100% RDK + Bacillus polymyxa, T6: 50% recommended dose of NP + 100% RDK + Pseudomonas fluorescence and T7: 50% recommended dose of NPK + Bacillus polymyxa. Rice cultivar ‘IET-4786 (Shatabdi)’ was used as test crop.

Results: Results of this study revealed that the maximum nutrient concentration in rice grain and straw; total N, P and K uptake (136.80, 37.07 and 184.65 kg ha-1 respectively); grain and straw yield; were obtained with the application of 100% recommended dose of chemical fertilizer (T2). T2 treatment was followed by 75% recommended dose of NP + 100% RDK + Azotobacter chroococcum (T4) and 75% recommended dose of NP + 100% RDK + Bacillus polymyxa (T5). Treatments T4 and T5 were significant in improving the soil health status including organic carbon content (0.38%), available N (183.29 and 172.43 kg ha-1), P2O5 (44.31 and 41.46 kg ha-1) and K2O (217.89 and 195.82 kg ha-1).

Conclusion: Therefore, treatments T4 and T5 exhibited beneficial effect on improving soil health and nutrient use efficiency leading towards higher rice yield along with reducing soil deterioration and maintaining sustainability.
Extraction, Physicochemical Characteristics and Fatty Acids Profile of Kernel Oil from Mangifera indica L. Cultivated in Sudan
Authors: Yaagoub Erwa Ibrahim , Starch Matenje Frank , Mnenula Mwachumu Yusuf , Adam Omer Ishag Omer , Mohamed Ahmed Hamza
Published: December 2019

Aims: This study was aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties and fatty acids composition of Mangifera indica L. seed kernel oil; in addition to investigating the effect of solvent type and extraction duration on extracts properties.

Study Design: Extraction of Mangifera indica L. seed kernel oil in different trials under the same conditions using two different solvents for different time of extraction, and determining their physicochemical properties and fatty acids constituents.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Applied and Industrial chemistry International University of Africa (IUA), Khartoum, Sudan, between July and November 2019.

Methodology: The oil from Mangifera indica L. seed kernel was extracted using n-hexane and petroleum ether in a soxhlet apparatus for 4 and 7 h. the physicochemical properties of the extracted oils were determined using standard official methods. Fatty acid profile of n-hexane extract was identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) after methylation.  

Results: n-Hexane exhibits better extraction efficiency (11.40±0.66% for 7 h) than petroleum ether (10.80±0.44% for 7 h). The density and refractive index of the oil were 0.89±0.01 g/cm3 and 1.46 ± 0.01 at 28ºC respectively. The physicochemical properties of n-Hexane and petroleum ether extracts were acid value (3.35±0.54 and 2.52±0.13 mg KOH/g oil), peroxide value (4.32±0.65 and 5.11±1.03 meq O2/kg), saponification value (201.05±0.95 and 198.66±1.04 mg KOH/g oil), ester value (197.59±0.67 and 192.54±0.20 mg KOH/g oil) respectively. The statistical analysis of obtained data revealed no significant difference, at 95% confidence interval, between the standard deviation and the mean of two data sets of physicochemical properties of Mangifera indica L. seed kernel oils extracted with the two solvents used. GC/MS analysis revealed a total of 18 fatty acids were identified in which the majors are stearic acid (39.79%), oleic acid (36.77%), palmitic acid (10.34%), linoleic acid (6.02%) and eicosanoic acid (3.83%).

Conclusion: The results suggest that mango seed kernel contains stable oil which can be potentially extracted by n-hexane; however, the solvent type has no significant effect on the physicochemical properties of the extracted oil and has the potential usefulness to be used in soap industry.
Study of Different Evapotranspiration Models under Polyhouse and Open Environment in Tarai Region of Uttarakhand
Authors: Sagar Atish , Singh Pramodh Kumar
Published: December 2019

The average of mean monthly ET0 estimated under polyhouse by FAO PM (benchmark) model was 39.44 mm, but that of the FAO Penman, Hargreaves Stanghellini, Priestley-Taylor and FAO Radiation models were 38.37, 18.18, 37.80, 48.17 and 53.87 mm respectively. Whereas, the average of mean monthly ETo estimated under open environment by FAO PM (benchmark) model was 116.34 mm, but that of the FAO Penman, Hargreaves Stanghellini, Priestley-Taylor and FAO Radiation models were 119.33, 133, 126.41, 113.17 and 117.37 mm respectively. The FAO Penman and Hargreaves model are found to be most and least appropriate models for estimating daily ET0 under polyhouse. Whereas, FAO Radiation and Stanghellini model observed to be most and the least appropriate models in an open environment for estimating daily ET0 under polyhouse for the Pantnagar Tarai condition of Uttarakhand.
Soil Phase: Base for Deriving Land Capability Class and Crop Suitability
Authors: Rajesh N. L. , Kumara Kirana , Rajesh V. , Rudramurthy H. V. , Kumar U. Satish , Basavaraj K. , Desai B. K. , Bai R. Meenakshi
Published: December 2019

A detailed land resource study of Gadagi-2 micro watershed, Lingasusgur taluk, Raichur district, Karnataka state, India, was carried out during summer 2017, at the scale of 1:8000 using cadastral map overlaid on IRS Cartosat-1 merged with LISS IV satellite imagery. Initially, a detailed survey was carried out to derive soil phase units based on land surface and profile characters. Five soil series were identified and mapped into five soil phase units. It is revealed that soil were non-saline with EC <4 dSm-1. The OC, available P2O5 and available K2O content of the study area were low to medium, and soil available N and S status were low in all the five soil phases. HEGiC2 soil phase was classified as class III land capability class with limitation of rooting and slope. Rest of the soil phases viz., KALhC2g1S1R1, VKRhD2g2S2R3, CHRhC2g1S1R1 and BHGhE2g2S2R2 were classified as class IV land capability with limitation of slope, texture, erosion, rooting condition and organic carbon. Suitability for horticulture and field crops were derived based on soil phase, site characteristics and climatic regimes. Proposed crop plan for field crops and horticulture crops for all five soil phase units was prepared. Suitable soil and water conservation measures such as deep and wider size pit and drip irrigation for fruit crops and forest trees, cultivation on raised beds with mulches and drip irrigation, graded bunds and strengthening of field bunds, crescent bunds were found suitable for vegetables, flowers and sole crops based on the soil phase characteristics.