bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Observations Made on Select Parameters of the Camel Immune System
Authors: Johnson Eugene H. , Al-Habsi Khalid R. , Al-Busaidi Rashid M.
Published: June 2017

Despite the camel’s long historical interaction with man there is only a limited number of studies available pertaining to the immunobiology of this species. This is unfortunate as the camel has evolved into an animal capable of not only surviving under extreme environmental conditions but also into one that is relatively resistant to a great number of infectious diseases. Accordingly, it is of interest to understand the various components operative in the camel immune system, as a potential basis of manipulating the immune response of other domesticated animals to respond to disease-causing agents in a similarly effective fashion. Recent research endeavors on the complement and phagocytic system, as well as the unique antibody types found in camelids that have seen an explosion of interest in recent times have been reviewed and their potential use as diagnostic and therapeutic tools highlighted.
Hydrological Aspects of Electromagnetic Surveys
Authors: Williams Baden G. , Anderson John
Published: June 2017

Interpreting Electromagnetic (EM) surveys - Electromagnetic induction techniques have now largely replaced previous descriptive, and largely subjective, techniques used for soil salinity surveys. The question then is a matter of how to interpret the EM data. A very clear linkage exists between Apparent Electrical Conductivity (ECa) and the total soluble salts in the upper soil profile. This, in turn, can be interpreted as reflecting the degree of vertical/ lateral leaching of soluble salts, or of salt accumulation in the profile. Topography, depth to groundwater and groundwater salinity also appear to affect ECa, although they are not suited to rapid survey techniques and do not necessarily have a direct relationship with either the total salt content of the upper soil profile or the ECa values. The interpretation of isoconductivity maps in terms of the degree of leaching of the soil profile from point to point provides an added hydrological management perspective to EM soil salinity surveys.
Traditional Camel Veterinary Treatment Among the Bedouins of Sultanate of Oman: A Case of Recurrent Miscarriages
Authors: ElMahi Ali Tigani , ElMahi Yussra Ali Tigani
Published: June 2017

In Oman, Bedouins have developed their own ways of providing medical care for their camels. This indigenous knowledge must have evolved sometime after the domestication of camels around 3000 BC. This paper documents a case of treating a female camel suffering from recurrent miscarriages in al Naffas at al Mudaibi area in the interior of Oman.
Yield-per-Recruit and Relative Mean Biomass Estimates, and their Management Consequences, to the Penaeus Indicus Fishery in the Gulf of Masirah
Authors: Siddeek M. S. M. , Mohan R. , Johnson D. W.
Published: June 2017

The von Bertalanffy growth parameters estimated based on the 1990/91 carapace length data of Penaeus indicus  from the Gulf of Masirah, Oman were used to calculate total mortality, yield-per-recruit ( i.e. average weight of a shrimp from a cohort under a given fishing pattern) , and relative mean biomass ( i.e. exploited cohort biomass over un-exploited cohort biomass) for the population sampled. The instantaneous total mortality coefficient value indicated under exploitation in 1990/91. When different fishing seasons scenarios were considered with the current total mortality level but with a range of natural mortality values, high yield, per recruit and relative mean biomass values were shown for October-April and November-April fishing seasons. The fishing season is currently late August to end of April. Thus, a one to two-month delay in the fishing season appears to be beneficial to this fishery.
Effect of Sex-linked Feathering Genes on Body Weight, Age At Sexual Maturity, Feed Intake and Subsequent Laying Performance of Baladi Chickens
Authors: AI-Sobayel A. , AI-Mulhem A.A.
Published: June 2017

A total of 320 twenty week-old slow and rapid feathering Saudi Arabian Baladi pullers were used to assess the effect of sex-linked feathering genes on body weight, age at sexual maturity, feed intake and subsequent laying performance. Similar numbers of rapid feathering Leghorns pullets were included in the study for the purpose of comparison. The experimental birds of each genotypic group were randomly divided into four replicates and subjected to standard management practices. Slow feathering Baladi pullers had higher (P<0.05) adult body weight, rate of mortality, and feed intake and a similar age at sexual maturity but showed lower (P< 0.05) hen-day, and hen-housed egg production and feed conversion compared with rapid feathering Baladi pullets. Rapid feathering Leghorns had higher (P<0.05) adult body weight. age at sexual maturity, hen-day egg production, rate of mortality and feed intake and lower feed intake/kg eggs than rapid and slow feathering Baladi. However, rapid feathering Baladi and Leghorns had similar hen-housed egg production and feed intake per dozen eggs and had better (l’<0.05') performance than slow feathering Baladi.
Irrigation Water Costs and Management Practices Among Farms m Northern Oman
Authors: Shayya W.H. , Al-Ghafry A.S. , Norman W.R.
Published: June 2017

This paper reports on findings from an irrigation water management study conducted in northern Oman. Although numerous descriptive accounts exist, quantitative research on the management and costs of irrigation water has been limited. As a result, very little is understood about the technical and economic performance of dominant irrigation practices within the agricultural sector. Based on research results from farmer surveys and direct monitoring of water use in the region, an attempt is made to provide a more thorough understanding of the costs to the farmer for irrigation water and related levels of water use performance. This paper argues that there is an inverse relationship between the cost to the farmer for irrigation water and the way that the water is managed. When access to ground water is available at relatively low costs, there is a tendency for the resource to he used excessively and managed inefficiently. This, in turn results in serious environmental consequences and threatens the sustainability of irrigated agricultural production in the region. In such cases, alternatives must be sought by which unrestricted access to low cost water can be limited. The paper also discusses existing programs and suggests priorities, which will serve to facilitate effective development planning and the establishment of appropriate water management and irrigation programs
Persistence of Cypermethrin and Permethrin and their Effects on Rat Blood Hematological Characteristics
Authors: Mansee A. H. M.
Published: June 2017

Persistence and biochemical characteristics of cypertnethrin and permethrin in the blood of male rats were studied following oral administration of a single dose containing 10 mg.kg -1 of body weight of each pyrethroid. The highest residue concentrations of cypermethrin (2.38 ug.ml-1) and permethrin (8.83 ug.ml-1) in rat blood tissue were detected 24 h after treatment. After two weeks cypermethrin residues decreased to 0.013 ug.ml -1 , whereas permethrin was not detected. Both pyrcthroids decreased the red blood cell (RBC) count, and packed cell volume (PCV) The greatest reduction in RBC count and PCV occurred at 504 h and 336 h respectively. Moreover, the result of post treatment white blood cell (WBC) count was influenced more by permethrin than by cypermethrin, especially after 80 h, 168 h and 504 h of treatment. However, the blood haemoglobin concentration in treated rats was not affected by either pyrethroid.
Salt Tolerance of Atriplex During Germination and Early Growth
Authors: Ibrahim Y. M.
Published: June 2017

Five Arriplex species were evaluated under the different salt concentrations. Sea water of specific electrical conductivity was used as a source of salinity at three different concentrations: I2, 24 and 36 dSm-1 Distilled water containing one-tenth volume modified hougland solution served as a control. An increase in salt concentration resulted in a significant reduction in germination. However, increases in mineral composition in the plants were observed without a reduction in yield under high salt treatments. This was an indication of salinity tolerance in Arriplex spp.
Management of Diseases Induced by Soil- Borne Pathogens, Solarization and Biological Control
Authors: Alabouvette C.
Published: June 2017

Diseases induced by soil-borne plant pathogens are among the most difficult to control. Prophylactic methods aiming at preventing the introduction of pathogens in healthy soils have to be respected, because it is almost impossible to eradicate pathogens from an infested field soil. Even the drastic disinfestation techniques based on the application of biocide molecules such as methylbromide failed to eliminate the pathogens, but are harmful to man and the environment. Growers should prefer new, environment friendly techniques such as solarization and biological disinfestation of soils. These methods induce changes in the microbial balance, reducing the population density of the pathogens and stimulating the activity of some beneficial microorganisms. The study of soils that naturally suppress diseases induced by soil-borne pathogens has led to a better understanding of the interactions between pathogenic and antagonistic microorganisms and has resulted in the selection of bio control agents.
An Integrated Management Approach for Red Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus Ferrugineus Oliv. a Key Pest of Date Palm in the Middle East
Authors: Abraham V.A. , Shuaibi M. A. AI , Faleiro J.R. , Abozuhairah R. A. , Vidyasagar P.S.P.V.
Published: June 2017

The date palm, Phoenix doctylifera L., is the most important fruit crop in the Middle East, cultivated since prehistoric times. Since mid-eighties the dreaded pest of palms viz. the red palm weevil. Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Oliv. has been reported to cause serious damage to date palm in certain pockets of the Gulf region. The pest subsequently spread to most of the date growing centers in the region and attained a key pest status. The unique agroclimatic conditions prevailing in the Middle East and the nature of the crop, coupled with transportation of planting material have helped in the rapid development and spread of the pest in a short period of about a decade Feeding of the soft tissues by this concealed borer often leads to the death of the palm. if timely curative measures are not adopted. However, taking up curative measures in the early stage of attack is often not possible as detection in infestation in the early stage is difficult. Moreover, the presence of neglected date gardens, beheaded palms, retention of unwanted off shoots etc. make the problem intricate. To tackle this problem from various angles and successfully combat the pest, the following Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme is suggested. The major components of the IPM strategy are surveillance, trapping the weevil using pheromones lures, detection of infestation by examining palms. Eliminating hidden breeding sites, clearing abandoned gardens, maintaining crop and field sanitation, preventive chemical treatments, curative chemical control implementing quarantine measures and training and education.
Cost Structure of Irrigation Water in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Zaibet L.
Published: June 2017

Agriculture in the Sultanate of Oman depends mostly on irrigation and consumes more than 94% of the national water resources. Previous studies have regarded water supply as perfectly elastic and consequently have concentrated on water management issue. This Study relaxes the above hypothesis and constructs a separate cost function for irrigation water. Substitutability among capital, labor and energy in the production of irrigation water was investigated. Results show substitution possibility between labor and energy and reveal the existence of increasing returns to scale in water production.
Temperature and Water Effects on the Viability of Alginate-Formulated Oospores of Pythrium Oligandrum
Authors: Al-Rawahi A. K. , Hancock J.G.
Published: June 2017

The low germination rates of oospores hinder the use of Pythium oligandrum as a biocontrol agent of soilborne plant pathogens. To improve the reliability of oospore-inoculum of P. oligandrum for the biological control of root diseases, oospores were formulated in calcium alginate pellets (oospore-pellets). Oospore-pellets of five isolates of P. oligandrum stored at 4°C under dry conditions remained viable (more or equal than 99% germination for each time interval) over 12 months regardless of the culture medium used to produce the oospores. In contrast, oospore-pellets stored at 25°C under the same conditions maintained their viability for 3 months but declined to 50%, viability in the following 9 months. Germination of oospore-pellets was at the highest (98%) at solute potentials (y8) higher than -l.33 MPa or relative humidities (RH) higher than 97% at 25° and 33°C. Germination declined sharply as (y8), decreased from -1.33 to -2.59 MPa and RH decreased from 97 to 94% with no germination occurring at -3.59 MPa and 92% RH. Only 60% germination was found at 16°C in the top range of y, and RH, and germination declined sharply as y, and RH were decreased, with no germination occurring at - l .33 MPa and 95% RH. Mycelial growth exhibited similar ranges of tolerance under the same moisture conditions and temperatures. High degrees of survival during storage accompanied by high percentages of germination under relatively dry conditions suggest that the oospore-pellet inoculum of P. oligandrum can be used for the control of pathogens in soil or a potting mix at high temperatures during a warm season or under greenhouse conditions.
Porous-Tube Subsurface Irrigation
Authors: Mohammad F.S.
Published: June 2017

This research was conducted to study the factors leading to the uniform distribution of water from a subsurface irrigation system using porous tubes. The factors included the depth at which the tubes are installed, operating pressure, depth of impermeable layer, and a gravel envelope surrounding the tubes. A laboratory soil tank was constructed to determine the effect of these factors. The tank was filled with sand and fitted with porous tubes. The tank and the tubes represent a section of soil profile. The results of this study showed that the depth of the impermeable layer affected significantly the water-table rise in the soil profile. The gravel envelope did not show any advantage over tubes without an envelope in sandy soils. A separate experiment was conducted to compare the characteristics of the flow from the porous tubes with the specifications given by the manufacturer. The results of the experiment showed that porous tubes do not work efficiently either under low pressure (below 80 kPa) or very high pressure (Le. above I50 kPa).
Economic Threshold Level of Chenopodium album L. and Phalaris minor Retz. in Wheat
Authors: Tanveer A. , Ahmad S. , Ayub M. , Ali A. , Ahmad R.
Published: June 2017

Two field experiments were conducted to determine the economic threshold level of C. album and P. minor in wheat. Different densities viz., check (weed free). 50. 100. 150. 200. 250. 300. 350. 400. 450 and 500 m-2 of each weed species were maintained separately. Grain yield obtained from plots having C, album densities up to 250 m-2 was not statistically different from that obtained from weed free plots (check). In P. minor, minimum grain yield was obtained at the highest weed density of 500 m-2 as compared with that in the absence of weeds.
A Novel Approach to Determine the Efficacy of Control Measures Against Dubas Bug, Ommatissus lybicus de Berg, on Date Palms
Authors: AI-Mjeni AM. , Mokhtar A.M.
Published: June 2017

In order to determine whether pesticide application against Ommatissus lybicus is required, it is necessary to monitor the severity of infestation by the pest. Secondly, if control measures are deemed necessary, then the efficacy of the pesticide application needs to be assessed. Both these parameters can be gauged by counting the number of insects on a leaflet. This method is time-consuming, hazardous and labor-intensive. A new alternative method based on collecting and counting honeydew droplets produced by the insect is described. Water sensitive paper is used to collect and count the droplets. This method is compared with the conventional technique and a significant correlation was found between the two methods. This new method is effective. rapid, less hazardous and saves labor, it has now been adopted to assess the efficacy of control measures.
The Incidence and Seventy of Eyespot on Winter Wheat Variety Hereward Grown as a Monocrop and as a Bicrop With White Clover
Authors: Soleimani M.J. , Deadman M.L. , Clements R.O. , Donaldson G.
Published: June 2017

In a three-year field trial, the level of eyespot on cv. Hereward winter wheat was recorded from cereal monoerops and cereal-clover bicrops receiving standard farming practice and reduced levels of input. Disease incidence (for years one, two and three) and severity (years two and three only), increased with each season in all treatments. In the third wheat crop the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) for disease incidence (mean of all treatments) was 3.30 times higher than that measured for the first wheat crop. The average AUDPC for disease severity in year three was l.78 times greater than that for year two. In year three the eyespot incidence AUDPC for bicrops was 1.12 times greater than in monocrops. Disease severity AUDPC in year three was MS times greater in bicrops than in monocrops. For all treatments there was a significant correlation between AUDPC and the rate of disease increase. The results are discussed in terms of those factors that are likely to affect eyespot levels within bicrops, especially microclimate changes, spore production on crop residues, and spore dispersal by rain-splash.
Productivity of Saltbush (Atriplex) Species Under Saline Soil and Water Conditions in Oman
Authors: Nadaf S.K. , Al-Khamisi S.A. , AI-Lawati A.H. , Ibrahim Y. M. , EI-Hag M.G.
Published: June 2017

A field observation trial was carried out at Agricultural Research Center, Rumais, Sultanate of Oman to evaluate the productivity and forage quality of two species of Saltbush viz. Quali saltbush (Artiplex lentiformis L.) And Fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canescens L), both are perennial and of North American origin. Plants were irrigated with brackish water (EC more than 10.00 dS/m) under drip irrigation and grown with minimum tillage and sub-optimum management conditions. Biomass production was evaluated in terms of five characters i.e. plant height, plant width, plant volume, green fodder yield/plant and green fodder yield/ha over the experimental period (747 d). Arriplex lenformis produced a total green fodder yield of 53.29 kg/plant equivalent to 59.21 t/ha as compared to that of 31.27 kg/plant (34.75 t/ha) produced by Atriplex canescens. The cut yields and interaction effects (between the species and cuts) were also significantly different with respect to all the characters. Chemical composition of the Atriplex species indicated that A Ientiformis had higher levels of Na, K, Cl and Ca as compared to A canescens. The studies of nutrient composition of bulk samples of the Atriplex species revealed that the fresh material contained 34.30% dry matter. On dry matter basis, the Atriplex material had 9.40% crude protein (CP), 24.00% crude fiber (CF), l.5% extract ( EE), 19.60% ash and 45.50% nitrogen free extract (NFE). Despite its high ash content, Atriplex material appeared to be a nutritious and cheap source of nitrogen complementation.
Yield Potential and Stability Indices as Methods to Evaluate Sprung Wheat Genotypes under Drought
Authors: Ahmad R. , Tanveer A. , Stark J. C. , Mustafa T.
Published: June 2017

Selection for drought tolerance typically involves evaluating genotypes for either high yield potential or stable performance under varying degrees of water stress. Field Studies were conducted in 1992 and 1993 to assess methods for evaluating genotypes with combined high yield potential and stability, in both years, 12 spring wheat (Triticum aestivum. L.) genotypes were grown under two irrigation levels (well-watered and stressed) imposed between tillering and anthesis with a line-source sprinkler irrigation system. Drought susceptibility index (the ratio of the yield of genotype in drought to the yield of the same genotype in well watered conditions standardized by the mean yield of all genotypes in drought and well watered conditions) and relative yield (yield of an individual genotype under drought divided by the yield of the highest yielding individual genotype in a population under drought) values were used to describe yield stability and yield potential of the 12 spring wheat genotypes. There were year-to-year variations in drought susceptibility index (DSI) and relative yield (RY) values within genotypes and changes in genotypic rankings within years. The DSI values ranged from 0.42 to 1.24 in 1992 and from 0.51 to 1.59 in 1993. The mean RY were 0.79 and 0.86 in 1992 and 1993, respectively. The DSI did not provide a good indication of yield potential as some genotypes has DSI < 1 but RY lower than average under water-stressed conditions. The RY (higher than average) under water stress was a good indicator of yield potential of a genotype per se but gave no indication of yield stability. The plots of DSI vs. RY values were found useful in identifying genotypes with high yield potential and relatively stable yield performance under different moisture regimes.
Factors Affecting the Levels of Eyespot and Fusarium Foot-Rot on Winter Wheat cv. Hereward in Cereal Monocrops and Wheat Clover Bicrops
Authors: Soleimani M.J. , Deadman M.L
Published: June 2017

Various factors influencing the amount of disease on the stem-base of wheat, when grown as a component of a bicrop, with white clover, are described. The amount of crop debris on the soil surface remained higher in monocrop than bicropped plots. Furthermore, the rate of debris decay was faster in bicrops than in monocrops. Population levels of P. herpotrichoides and Fusarium spp. were higher on debris within bicrops than on debris within monocrop plots. However, because debris decomposition was more rapid in bierops, inoculum availability was of shorter duration in bicrops than monocrop plots. ln soil, populations of P. herpotrichmoides were greater in bicropped plots than in monocrops, although no significant differences were observed for Fusarium spp. population levels. Pathogen cross-infection between bicrop components and changes in microclimate within crop canopies were shown to occur, and isolates of Fusarium from clover were shown to induce significant levels of disease on cereal seedlings. The effects of each of these factors on disease development are discussed in relation to previous reports of disease levels in the field.
The Effects of a Fungal Biocontrol Agent and a Chemical Adjuvant on the Efficacy of Cuprous Oxide Sprays for Controlling Witches’ Broom Disease in Cocoa
Authors: Thacker J.R.M. , Laine L.V. , McLean R.D.
Published: June 2017

A Field experiment was carried out in a cocoa plantation in Brazil to evaluate whether a fungal biocontrol agent (Trichoderma spp.) and a chemical adjuvant could enhance the efficacy of cuprous oxide sprays that are applied to control witches’ broom disease. The experimental design was comprised of 16 plots containing approximately 50 mature cocoa trees each. Each plot measured approximately 1000 m2. Treatments were allocated to plots randomly. Treatments were: control (no spray), cuprous oxide, cuprous oxide plus adjuvant, and cuprous oxide plus adjuvant plus fungus. Sprays were applied monthly from April to September in line with official recommendations for the control of witches’ broom disease. Sprays were applied using a motorized backpack mistblower. Monthly assessments of disease incidence were made from March to November. Assessments were made on five randomly selected trees from 15 marked trees located in the center of each plot. Assessments were comprised of the numbers of healthy and diseased pods observed on trees, the numbers of green and necrotic axillary and terminal brooms, and the numbers of healthy and diseased pods taken from trees at each harvest. The results show that disease incidence was the highest in the control plots where the fewest healthy pods were harvested. The overall incidence of disease varied from 25 to 45% across all treatments. Statistically, the results show that there were no significant differences among treatments, including the control. No significant improvements in the efficacy of copper-based sprays were measured as a result of adding the fungus or the adjuvant to the spray. Also, no significant improvements in disease control were recorded when using cuprous oxide on its own. We concluded that copper sprays were ineffective in controlling the disease. This paper discusses our results in the light of official recommendations for the control of the disease.
An Improved Diluent for Long-Term Liquid Storage of Chicken Semen
Authors: Palmer D. K. , AI-Maskari S.N.M.
Published: June 2017

A prototype chicken semen diluent formulation has been developed based on the results of preliminary experiments. Preliminary experiments indicated the substitution of glutamate for the acetate and phosphate generally present in chicken semen diluents improved post-insemination fertility levels obtained from chicken semen following 24-96 hours of in vitro storage. Additional preliminary experiments indicated potassium could be substituted for the sodium generally contained in chicken semen diluents without affecting post-insemination fertility levels. The dual biological buffers, BES and BIS-TRIS, that replace the single biological buffer sometimes contained in chicken semen diluents have opposing effects on the diluent’s pH and permit adjustment of the prototype diluent’s pH to a range of values without altering either its osmolarity or chemical composition. Semen collected from males of the Minnesota Dominant Marker Line was diluted 1:1 in the prototype diluent and stored in vitro for 96 hours at 4°C. Groups of twenty-four hens were inseminated with the stored semen samples. Osmolarities from 265-339 mOsm did not affect post-insemination fertility levels obtained from semen stored in the prototype diluent. The proportion of fertile eggs obtained post insemination from semen stored in the prototype diluent was significantly greater than that obtained from chicken semen stored in BPSE-l in the Chi-square test. Further investigations are necessary to determine the basis for the superiority of the newly-developed poultry semen diluent formulation to BPSE-I.
Efficiency of Intravulval Lip Route of Prostaglandin F2a Administration on Estrus Synchron
Authors: Srikandakumar A. , Mohammed A. , AI-Abri A.
Published: June 2017

Estrus was synchronized in dairy cattle using the synthetic prostaglandin F2a (PG) analog Estnunate (Coopers Animal Health Ltd., Berkhamsed, England. UK; 250 ug/ml of cloprostenol). PG was administered by two routes at two different doses, 500 ug by im route (control) and 125 pg by intravulval lip (ivu) route (treatment). All animals were bred by artificial insemination (AI) to detected estrus using the am-pm breeding rule (BR). First service conception rate (FSCR) for all dairy cows and heifers was 70% for the control and 54% for the treatment groups (P>0.05). The FSCR was also not different (P>0.05) between Holstein (HOL) and Australian Milking Zebu (AMZ) breeds (HOL 52% and AMZ 78%). Moreover, all the animals in this study were confirmed pregnant by the end of the breeding season. In conclusion, dairy cows and heifers can be successfully synchronized using only 125 pg of cloprostenol without impairing fertility. This dose corresponds to only one fourth of the recommended dose of 500 pg of cloprostenol by the manufacturer.
Occurrence, Distribution and Properties of Alfalfa Mosaic Virus
Authors: Zadjaii A.D. , Matrooshi A.R. , Moghal S.M.
Published: June 2017

Alfalfa Mosaic Virus (AlflMV) was recorded on 21 hosts comprising of four field crops, 14 vegetables, one ornamental plant and two new weed species (Heliotropium europaeum and Ammi majus) belonging to nine families. The virus was identified and confirmed on the basis of its biological, serological (ELISA) and physical properties. The leaves, stem and crown from systemically infected alfalfa plant contained high concentration of the virus. It was nonpersistently transmitted by cotton aphids (Aphis gossypii). The wide host range, including virus reservoirs, seed-borne infection and insect transmission account for high incidence and distribution of AlfMV in the country. The virus isolate had a dilution end point between 1 x 10-3 to l x 10-4, 65-67 °C thermal inactivation point and a few days in-vitro longevity and appears to be similar to the AlfMV-S strain.
Measuring Water Transmission Parameters in Vadose Zone Using Ponded Infiltration Techniques
Authors: Elrick D.E. , Reynolds W.D.
Published: June 2017

The flow of soil water is characterized by water transmission parameters, field-saturated hydraulic conductivity, matric flux potential and sorptivity. Soil water flow is, in turn, the primary mechanism by which soil contaminants, such as excess plant nutrient, bacteria, viruses, salts, and industrial chemicals are transported. Consequently, knowledge of soil water transmission parameters is essential for understanding, preventing and remediating the contamination of soil water and ground water. This paper describes steady-state and transient methods for obtaining soil water transmission parameters from ponded infiltration under constant head and falling head conditions in surface rings and shallow auger holes. Also discussed are the conditions under which the various methods are most appropriate.
Landscape Salinisation and Management: An Australian Perspective
Authors: Hoey D. , Ahmed M. , Littleboy M.
Published: June 2017

Australian landscapes are facing an increasing salinisation threat. It is estimated that 2.5 million hectares are affected by land salinisation, and this area is expected to triple by 2050. Federal and State governments have jointly developed a policy framework to address this issue, with each state refining their own salinity management strategies within this framework. Scientific assessment and modelling underpin these salinity management strategies, though socio-economic considerations are also important. Landscape salinity assessment techniques used in the Australian context are outlined, and examples of salinity hazard and recharge mapping at the landscape scale described. Current developments in both recharge assessment, and groundwater flow modelling in Australia are described, and the use of these models in underpinning state salinity strategic planning discussed. The salinity management ‘toolkit’ is discussed. The progression from initially applying engineering solutions to deal with the symptoms of salinisation; to dealing with the causes of salinisation; to developing an integrated catchment management approach; to including a stronger emphasis on market-based economic measures; and the importance of over-arching Catchment Blueprints, is described in detail.The application of knowledge and experience gained through the management of Australian land salinisation to other countries is discussed in the context of the salinity problem in the Sultanate of Oman.
Dynamic Effect in Capillary Pressure- Saturation Relationship and its Impact on Unsaturated Flow
Authors: Hassanizadeh S.M. , Celia M.A. , Dahle H.K.
Published: June 2017

Recent theories indicate that capillary pressure is perhaps not only a function of saturation but also rate of change. This is known as the dynamic effect. A comprehensive review of experiments reported in the literature is presented. The experiments provide ample evidence that a dynamic effect is observable and even quantifiable. The reported data are used to estimate the coefficient that arises in the theory. It was found that range of values of the dynamic coefficients spans about four orders of magnitude. To examine whether these coefficients have any practical effects on larger-scale problems, a continuum-scale simulator was constructed in which the dynamic effects are included. Results of our simulations indicated that the dynamic effect may be important for some field situations. Numerical simulators for unsaturated flow should generally include the additional term(s) associated with dynamic capillary pressure.
Maximizing Toxicity of Certain Insecticides Against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)
Authors: Mansee A.H. , Montasser M.R.
Published: June 2017

Effects of temperature and light exposure on the toxicity of deltamethrin, chlorpyrifos-methyl, and malathion against Tribolium castaneum were extensively studied using the residual film method. Results revealed that mortality increased proportionally with an increase in temperature, where the optimum temperature for the three tested insecticides was 30°C. Toxicity of the tested insecticides could be arranged in the following descending order: chlorpyrifos-methyl >deltamethrin >malathion. Moreover, light exposure obviously enhanced toxicity of the three investigated insecticides compared to dark exposure. Piperonyl butoxide (PB) acted as an oxidase inhibitor, when mixed with each of the three insecticides, increased the toxicity ratio by about four fold in both dark and light. Joint toxic effects between deltamethrin and the two tested OP as esterase inhibitors, showed that mixing chlorpyrifosmethyl with deltamethrin increased deltamethrin toxicity by 152.7 and 137.12 fold in dark and light, respectively. Finally, deltamethrin + chlorpyrifos-methyl + PB blend was found to possess maximum efficiency, which increased deltamethrin toxicity by 679.05 fold under exposure to light conditions. Thus, modification of deltamethrin toxicity by increased temperature; light exposure and detoxification inhibitors maximized its toxicity to Tribolium castaneum, reduced insecticide rate, and thus reduces both the environmental stress, and the resistance pressure.
Assessment of Groundwater Salinization and Soil Degradation in Abdally Farms, Kuwait
Authors: AI-Rashed M. , Al-Senafy M.
Published: June 2017

Kuwait is a part of the arid and semi arid region, where irrigation is necessary for any realistic agricultural activities. There are no surface fresh water resources in Kuwait. Fresh water is provided from desalination of seawater. However, this water is used mainly for potable purposes. A total of 100,000 cubic meters of brackish groundwater is annually produced from the Kuwait Group and Dammam Formation aquifers. This water is mainly used for mixing at 5-10% with distilled water and for irrigation of specific crops. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of brackish groundwater irrigation on groundwater and soil. A total of 161 water and soil samples from 25 selected farms were collected and analyzed for chemical and physical parameters It was concluded that soil salinity was directly proportional to that of groundwater and a high increase in soil salinity was recognized since the establishment of the farms in Abdally. That was mainly related to the mismanagement of groundwater resources, which causes soil degradation in addition to the losses and inefficiency in water usage. It is recommended to use tertiary treated wastewater for irrigation activities in order to have a wider range of crops to be grown and to prevent the deterioration in both soil and groundwater resources.
Agricultural Extensnon Techniques in the Sultanate of Oman, Present Prospect and Perspective
Authors: Ghobashi A.A.
Published: June 2017

A study conducted during September 2003 included 80 participants grouped into 3 categories, who occupied different posts in the Agricultural (and Fisheries) Development Centers (ADC). A questionnaire covering various elements of extension methods and techniques was used. Result showed that participant's opinions were identical in 90.6% of the aspects put forward in the questionnaire. There were, however, significant differences in opinions between the three groups involved in the study regarding representation of ministry extension personnel at village levels, availability of media equipment and facilities in the ADC and level of training of extension staff. The study also showed the need for a complementary extension structure at ABC level, development of an appropriate relationship between extension and agricultural research and more technical and practical training for extension staff. The participants also emphasized the relative importance of providing extension means and outputs for demonstration of plots to target groups, the availability of media equipment and the necessity for developing techniques for better execution and evaluation of extension programs. Research priorities should also be linked with problems related to agricultural production at farm level in Oman.
Internationalization of Oman Fisheries Firms After the European Union Ban
Authors: Zaibet L. , Boughanmi H. , AI-Marshudi A. , AI-Hinai T.
Published: June 2017

This paper examines the impacts of the l998 ban on Oman fish exports to the EU markets and ensuing the internationalization of Oman fish companies. The ban raises two concerns that the paper intends to answer: (i) how firms have responded to surmount the ban, and (ii) which strategies are more effective in the process of internationalization. The paper distinguishes three sets of actions: during the ban and immediate actions; short term actions; and long term actions. Besides government support for the implementation of international norms of quality and safety control, firms have responded individually to the EU ban. The actions subsequently undertaken by firms in response to the ban were selected: identification of new markets (alternatives); implementation of the required regulations and needed support to continue exporting to traditional European markets (competence); and long term business and marketing strategies (strategic thinking). These actions or steps represent the internationalization process or approach followed by the fisheries firms in Oman. All these actions have been undertaken after the EU ban, which leads to the conclusion that the ban has indeed worked as a driving force to internationalize, i.e. to develop the requisites of international markets.
Food Safety and Chemical Contaminants: An Overview a
Authors: Ali A. , Akhtar M.H.
Published: June 2017

Food safety is a major consumer’s concern worldwide. Although several incidences of food poisoning have placed microbial contamination on the forefront during recent years, health risks due to chemical contamination still remain high. The most often cited chemical contaminants are derived from a variety of sources such as pesticides, environmental chemicals (PCBs. dioxin, heavy metals including lead, mercury), chemical contaminants as a result of food processing (acrylamide, nitrosamines etc.), naturally occurring toxicants (glycoalkaloids, mycotoxins, antinutritives etc), chemicals migrating from packaging materials, veterinary drugs and other chemical residues. In addition to the presence of unintentional contaminants, the quality and safety of foods could also be compromised by the addition of certain food additives, phytonutrients, exposure to irradiation and other substances. Food processors and the regulatory and enforcement agencies are facing an ever-increasing challenge to meet the consumer’s demands for safe foods that do not pose health risks or alter their lifestyle. As the food trade expands throughout the world, food safety has become a shared concern among both the developed and developing countries. Although food control systems do exist in the countries of Gulf region, in most of the cases they are not in line with national and international needs and are not able to cope with the new challenges of the modern era. The most appropriate methods to ensure the safety of food supplies are the strengthening of regular surveillance systems, developing methods for the systematic application of risk analysis, risk assessment and risk management strategies, and timely communication of information to develop and enforce the appropriate food safety laws globally as well as the development of international and national cooperation. This paper reviews issues, challenges and solutions to achieve food safety with respect to chemical contaminants, with emphasis on the Gulf region.
Vivências de mães que acompanham filhos com fibrose cística no hospital: subsídios para a enfermagem
Authors: Reis Adriana Teixeira , MENDES Joyce De Matos , OLIVEIRA Roberta Correia de , KOEPPE Giselle Barcellos Oliveira
Published: June 2017

ObjetivoCompreender as vivências de mães que acompanham a hospitalização de seus filhos com fibrose cística. MétodosUtilizou-se a técnica de entrevista aberta em uma amostra de oito mães com filhos internados na enfermaria de pediatria de um hospital público federal no município do Rio de Janeiro, no período de junho a julho de 2010, com aplicação de um roteiro de entrevista com a seguinte questão: "Fale sobre as hospitalizações de seu filho". ResultadosA análise temática resultou nas seguintes categorias: a equipe de saúde como rede de apoio durante a hospitalização; o impacto da hospitalização no cotidiano e, sentimentos negativos gerados pela hospitalização. As narrativas demonstram que a hospitalização dessas crianças gera mudanças de grande impacto social e emocional na vida das mães. ConclusãoAs mães de crianças fibrocísticas necessitam de apoio e oportunidade de comunicação no processo de hospitalização, sendo que essas oportunidades podem auxiliá-las a reconstruir seu cotidiano dentro das restrições impostas pela doença.
O Universal e o Particular
Authors: Machado Vitor Barletta
Published: June 2017

O presente artigo apresenta reflexões proferidas durante a palestra “O Universal e o Particular”, no Colóquio: A Universidade Católica à Luz do Concílio Vaticano II, de 2015, realizado na PUC-Campinas. A proposta era levantar o debate sobre os desafios da educação Católica, à luz dos documentos papais sobre o tema, perante as características do mercado de trabalho na sociedade contemporânea. O texto apresenta os principais aspectos das encíclicas Gravissimum Educationis (1965), Ex Corde Ecclesiae (1990), Instrumentum Laboris (2014), relacionando-os ao debate sobre a moral particular e a universal na obra de Durkheim, enfocando no desenvolvimento de uma moral profissional que não se aproxima dos valores defendidos para toda a humanidade. As considerações finais remetem aos desafios do trabalho de docentes nas universidades católicas, também atingidos pelo conflito entre interesses particulares do mercado e valores universais, mas que não podem abandonar o comprometimento com a formação de novas gerações de profissionais interessados em transformar essa realidade.
O poder, o monopólio e a produção exponencial de informação
Authors: Cheida Marcel José
Published: June 2017

O artigo compreende uma reflexão sobre os rumos da sociedade da informação, cujas estruturas são recondicionadas e remodeladas pelas tecnologias digitais combinadas com os desafiadores avanços dos processos de exploração dos bens do planeta. Desde a invenção da tipografia impressa, os sistemas e processos de comunicação sofreram profundas mudanças, as quais culminam com a internet. O telégrafo elétrico é o dispositivo que vai radicalizar a velocidade da emissão e recepção de mensagens, além de ser instalado como rede de comunicação, antevendo a Internet. A partir dele, a velocidade se torna o elemento crucial tanto para sustentar o capitalismo como modelo econômico de produção e consumo, como para acelerar profundamente as mudanças tecnológicas e comportamentais de meados do século XX até hoje. Assim, a reflexão apresentada propõe um problema que desafia a capacidade da humanidade e do planeta em conviver com processos acelerados, motivado pelas pressões e demandas de consumo as quais alimentam os monopólios que buscam incessantemente controlar a produção e a disseminação de conteúdos na sociedade consumista. O preço é a degradação das fontes dos recursos ambientais.Palavras-chave: Ética. Informação. Mídia.
O Brasil e o mundo na época do Antropoceno: breve história de uma humanidade (in) sustentável
Authors: Pareto Jr. Lindener , Polone Fernanda Blumel , Santos Gabriela , Zacarias Kaique , Silva Lucas Diego Ganzella da , Elias Samuel Augusto
Published: June 2017

Este artigo discute, de maneira introdutória, as condições ambientais do Brasil e do Mundo na época do Antropoceno. À luz das reflexões da Laudato Si’, e na esteira das críticas à ideologia do progresso e à insustentabilidade do nosso atual modelo econômico, propõe-se um regime de historicidade que considere a longa duração de um sistema que, paulatinamente, hipoteca as chances de recuperação do meio ambiente do planeta e compromete a própria condição humana.Palavras-chave: Antropoceno. História Ambiental. Laudato Si’. Sustentabilidade.
KARAKTERISTIK SISTEM REFRIGERASI KOMPRESI UAP DENGAN REFRIGERANT CAMPURAN MUSICOOL 134 - CO2
Authors: Purnomo Bagiyo Condro , Setiyo Muji
Published: June 2017

Penelitian ini membahas penggantian refrigeran R-134a yang berpotensi ODP dan GWP dengan refrigeran campuran Musicool 134 - CO2  pada sistem refrigerasi kompresi uap yang diaplikasikan pada sistem AC mobil. Karekteristik sistem AC diamati pada variasi putaran blower sebagai beban pendinginan dan variasi komposisi refrigeran CO2 pada Musicool 134 (0% CO2, 1,5% CO2 dan 3% CO2). Pada konfigurasi tersebut, dilakukan pengukuran temperatur dan tekanan refrigeran. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa refrigeran Musicool 134 yang dicampur dengan CO2 memberikan kinerja yang menjanjikan sebagai pengganti R-134a.Kata kunci: Reftrofit, Refrigerant Musicool 134, Refrigeran CO2
Zika virus – A review of its existence
Authors: Gupta PP
Published: June 2017

Health Renaissance 2015;13(2): 1-6
Acceptability of depot medroxyprogesterone in women attending general outpatient department: A cross sectional study
Authors: Chaudhuri Sonai , Rai B. K. , Giri R , Yadav A , Giri S
Published: June 2017

Background: Depomedroxy progesterone (DMPA) is most commonly used contraception among the Nepalese women of reproductive age group. Objective: To study the perceived positive and negative aspects regarding the use of DMPA amongst women presenting to the General Outpatient Department of BPKIHS, Dharan, Nepal.Method: This is a cross sectional descriptive study which is conducted at the general out patient department (GOPD) of the B.P. Koirala Institite of Health Science, Dharan, Nepal for a period of one year where a questionnaire was distributed among 100 female patients and their responses were collected.Result: Most widely used contraceptive method was Depot Medroxy progesterone (69%). The most sought after reason for continued use, was "easy to follow dose" (30%) whereas "difficulty with compliance with other contraception" (26%) remains the next important reason. "Privacy (16%) helped the patients to continue the usage whereas “Easily/only available contraception (5%) made rest of the participants to continue the use of Depot medroxyprogesterone.Conclusion: Depot Medroxy Progesterone Acetate is a highly effective, convenient to use non daily hormonal contraception which is widely accepted in Nepalese women when used after proper counseling by clinicians or other health professionals.Health Renaissance 2015;13(2): 7-13