bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk-based approach to choosing the production asset management strategy for energy company
Authors: Levin V. M. , Guzhov N. P. , Boyarova D. A.
Published: January 2024

RELEVANCE: The possibility of a reasonable choice of an alternative strategy for the organization of maintenance and repair (M&R) of the power company's equipment is a guarantee of the successful implementation of its strategic priorities. The tasks in this direction are quite relevant.

PURPOSE: To develop a unified methodology that, from the general standpoint of a risk-based approach, would allow comparing two alternative strategies for managing the assets of an energy company "by periodicity, operating time" and "by technical condition", according to a set of key criteria for the effectiveness of M&R.

METHODS:When solving problems, methods of forming and adjusting schedules for repairs of electrical equipment, calculating reliability and probabilities of failure in the power supply system of consumers, taking into account its circuit features, assessing the technical condition of equipment according to non-destructive testing and diagnostics, comparing the costs of maintaining and restoring reliability and damages from its violations were used.

RESULTS:A risk-oriented methodology has been developed and verified, which makes it possible to evaluate and select the optimal equipment maintenance strategy for the energy company according to uniform efficiency criteria. An algorithmic implementation of the developed methodology is obtained, which is the basis of a computing complex for choosing and making decisions. The verification of the methodology and algorithm is carried out on the example of a real object – a power supply system for oil production consumers using reliable operational and diagnostic information.

CONCLUSION:The results obtained fully compensate for the lack of methodological possibilities in comparing two basic alternative strategies for electrical equipment maintenance based on a single risk-based approach. The developed methodology is a unified decision-making tool at the stage of alternative analysis. The illustration of the methodology by a real numerical example demonstrates the consistency of the solutions obtained with the results of expert assessments and operational experience.
Coordinated management of electricity storages and distributed generation plant with predictive controllers in a power supply system with reduced electricity quality
Authors: Bulatov Yu. N. , Kryukov A. N. , Suslov K. V. , Kizhin V. V.
Published: January 2024

THE PURPOSE. A study of the influence of coordinated control of electricity storage devices and distributed generation installations on the operating modes of a network cluster, which is an electrical distribution network connected to the AC railway power supply system through a direct current insert (DCI).

METHODS. The studies were carried out using a simulation model implemented in the MATLAB system.

RESULTS. The following disturbing influences were considered: turning off the main power supply of the network cluster from the DCI side for 0.5 seconds; three-phase short circuit with a duration of 0.5 s at the end of a 6 kV cable line with a length of two kilometers. The simulation results showed the effectiveness of coordinated control of electricity storage devices and a turbogenerator with self-adjusting predictive controllers. On this basis, the values of overshoot of the rotor speed are reduced and the transient process time is reduced for all parameters in various modes. For example, the transient time for the generator rotor speed in the mode of connecting an additional load is reduced by three times, and for voltage - by two times.

CONCLUSION. Based on computer modeling, it is shown that coordinated control of electricity storage devices and a turbogenerator with predictive regulators reduces the amount of rotor speed overshoot to almost zero and reduces the transient process time by almost 90%. It is advisable to conduct further research on the application of the method of coordinated control of active elements used in the power supply system to regulate the mode parameters.
Features of calculating the temperature field in an annular porous layer under infinite heating
Authors: Yakimov N. D. , Shageev A. F. , Dmitriev A. V. , Badretdinova G. R.
Published: January 2024

To date, easily recoverable oil reserves have already been extracted, so deposits with residual oil reserves or places with weak permeability are of great interest. It is known that oil becomes more viscous when the temperature decreases, which creates difficulties in its production. Therefore, to reduce the viscosity, it is necessary to heat the oil to the temperature at which it is possible to realize its production. The study proposes a mathematical model for calculating the temperature field in an annular porous layer under infinite heating in a downhole reactor for continuous heating of the bottom-hole zone of a formation containing high-viscosity oil and natural bitumen (HVO and NB).

PURPOSE. To construct a heating solution for an infinitely long annular layer in a downhole reactor. To obtain a temperature profile in the cross section of the annular layer and a picture of the temperature field.

METHODS. The equations of the mathematical model are based on the laws of conservation of energy and mass, their study and evaluation are carried out using analytical methods of the theory of differential equations, methods of similarity theory and dimensions, as well as numerical methods for solving boundary value problems. results. In the course of the study, the dependences of the distance at which the set air temperature in the reactor is reached at different values of mass air flow, linear heat flux density and the heat capacity of the mixture were obtained. conclusion. The conducted studies have allowed us to obtain a mathematical model for calculating the temperature field in an annular porous layer under infinite heating in an downhole reactor. The results obtained showed that with an increase in the mass flow rate and the heat capacity of the medium, the distance at which the set air temperature in the reactor is reached increases by 1.6 and 1.5 times, respectively, over the entire temperature range, and with an increase in the linear density of the heat flux, this distance decreases by 0.6 times.
Condensation heat recycling system for heat engines
Authors: Kondrashov A. V. , Trinchenko A. A.
Published: January 2024

THE RELEVANCE of the research lies in the need to use waste heat, which is a byproduct of the operation of energy machines, to increase the efficiency of their operation. Using the example of introducing a system for recovering condensation heat and using it in an air heating system, the possibility of beneficial use of waste heat generated by refrigeration machines used to freeze the ice arena of a sports complex was confirmed.

TARGET. Development of a system for recycling the condensation heat of refrigeration machines to use waste heat when organizing air heating of a building.

METHODS. Study of engineering systems for the possibility of beneficial use of low-grade heat. Organization of a system for recycling the condensation heat of refrigeration machines in a sports complex. Installation of a measuring stand, including, among other things, a heat meter, a heat calculator, a controller for transferring measurement results to a personal computer, carrying out the necessary calculations, their subsequent processing and analysis.

RESULTS. At a facility with constant operation of refrigeration machines and a need for heating, a condensation heat recovery system has been introduced. The possibility of implementing the proposed system without long-term downtime of the main equipment is shown.

CONCLUSION. The introduction of a condensation heat recovery system increased the energy efficiency of the system, which allowed for 2.6 million rubles. reduce utility bills of the heat supply organization, as well as reduce thermal pollution of the environment by at least 1.4 GW per year.
Development of changes to the construction code of rules in part of updated specific electrical loads
Authors: Soluyanov V. I. , Soluyanov Yu. I. , Fedotov A. I. , Akhmetshin A. R.
Published: January 2024

THE PURPOSE. Develop changes to the building code of rules regarding updating the specific calculated electrical loads of multi-apartment residential buildings. Perform a comparative analysis of the power of technological connection of multi-apartment residential buildings, calculated according to regulatory and technical documents and according to those developed on the basis of actual measured data with an assessment of the effect of updating specific design electrical loads.

METHODS. To achieve this goal, mathematical and statistical methods of analysis were used.

RESULTS. Statistical processing of the specific electrical load of apartments in multi-apartment residential buildings in the Moscow region of a cluster of 11–18 floors for twenty-three months of 2021–2023 was carried out, which made it possible to form statistically significant samples by excluding outliers from them and obtaining their basic descriptive statistics. Based on the results obtained, changes were developed to the regulatory and technical document in terms of updating the specific calculated electrical loads of apartments in multi-apartment residential buildings in the Moscow region of the cluster 11 - 18 floors.

CONCLUSION. The introduction of updated values of the specific calculated electrical load will lead to the selection of power transformers with optimal loading, which, on the one hand, will reduce the “locked electrical power”, resulting in reduced electricity losses, and on the other hand, will reduce the cost of technological connection.
Inovasi Layanan Drive Thru “Peminjaman dan Pengembalian Buku” di Balai Layanan Perpustakaan DPAD Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
Authors: Indriyani Meyza , Zain Labibah
Published: January 2024

Purpose Research. This research was conducted to determine the innovation of the drive thru service "book borrowing and returning" at the DPAD DIY Library Service Center in meeting the needs of users. Research method. This type of research uses qualitative methods with a descriptive approach. Data collection techniques use observation, interviews, and literature studies. Analysis data. Data analysis techniques are carried out by data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion/data verification.Results. The results showed that drive thru service innovation based on 5 indicators of innovation criteria, namely: 1) has novelty showing that drive thru service innovation is a new idea, idea, and invention in serving users, 2) effectively shows that drive thru service innovation is very effective in helping and facilitating book borrowing and returning, 3) useful shows that drive thru service innovation is needed to meet user needs,  especially for the agency itself, 4) it can be transferred/replicated showing that drive thru service innovation can be used as an example, reference, and applied to other agencies, 5) sustainability shows that drive thru service innovation is strongly supported to be maintained both from the agency and the user community.
Intercity Rail Maintainability Analysis: A Case Study on Rolling Stock Maintenance Compliance
Authors:   Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Baharin Nuramira Najihah , Sanusi Shahmir Hayyan ,   Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Abdul Hamid Nor Aziati ,   Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Jumiran Amirul Afif ,   Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) Depot
Published: January 2024

Compliance to organizational standard is essential for maintaining high work performance within the appropriate timescale which can result in reduction of maintenance expenses. The purpose of this study was to analyze the compliance level of preventive maintenance activities based on job frequency and its working hours. Historical data of preventive maintenance from 2019 -2020 obtained from a field study at Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) Depot Batu Gajah, Perak, was analyzed to investigate the frequency, manhours, and the cost involved for each type of preventive maintenance activities namely Exam A, B C and D involving ETS Class 91. The examination concerning manhours compliance was conducted in accordance with the organization's standard, as specified in the KTMB Operation and Maintenance manual based on the highest duration of maintenance and labors. From the results, Exam A contributed to the highest non-compliance practice compared to the other Exam where the highest non-compliance percentage (32%) was recorded in 2020 which results in losses of RM RM2,552.82. This study is beneficial for the organization as it determines irregular downtime and manhours compliance for rolling stock system maintenance to shape for a better future maintenance plan that will results in efficient operation and higher revenue.
Curriculum implementation: Challenges and the prospect of education resource centres to aid effective implementation
Authors:   Department of Educational Technology, Lagos State University of Education Otto/Ijanikin P.O. Box 007 Festac Town, Lagos, Nigeria, Fasinro Kabiru
Published: January 2024

This paper delves into the challenges impeding effective curriculum implementation in Nigerian higher education institutions, ranging from inadequate funding to a brain-drain crisis. Recognizing the critical role of curriculum implementation in achieving national educational objectives, the study identifies these barriers highlighted concerning the misalignment between intended and implemented curricula, underscoring the need for strategic solutions. The paper then explores the prospects of Educational Resource Centres (ERCs) as catalysts for addressing these challenges. ERCs are portrayed as multifaceted entities capable of alleviating heavy academic loads, compensating for limited school facilities, and fostering inclusive education. The discussion emphasizes the alignment of ERCs with curriculum support, the provision of multimedia resources for diverse learning styles, and the pivotal role in dynamic instruction through advanced teaching aids. Furthermore, ERCs are seen as pivotal in providing educational support services, offering professional development opportunities for educators, and facilitating teachers' involvement in curriculum planning. It concludes by asserting the indispensable role ERCs play in reshaping the landscape of education, ensuring a future where curriculum implementation is not just a challenge but a collaborative journey that aids effective implementation which fosters achieving curriculum objectives that translate to attaining national developmental targets.
Secular and ecclesiastical power: the Caesarepapist conflict in Russia in 20th century
Authors: Kail Maksim
Published: January 2024

The article examines the experience of research in the current historiography of the relationship between secular and ecclesiastical authorities. Their clash in the modern history of Russia (in the events of the revolution of the early 20th century) is described as a Caesarepapist conflict that came at the stage of active modernization and revolutionization of public consciousness. The change of the state system entailed the rejection of a number of traditional public institutions, including the ''dominant Orthodoxy''. Historiographical interpretations of this conflict, which is significant for national history and self-consciousness, influence modern research discourses and self-identification of governmental and confessional institutions, the practice of their appeal to historical experience, defining the modern narrative of state-church relations in Russia of the 20th century.
The Effects of Drawing on Episodic Item & Associative Recall
Authors: Murray Jamie , Ridgillova Nathalie , Djurhuus Jógvan Heindrikur Rógvason , Feketova Lucia , Danielsson Julia , Fathima Afrah
Published: January 2024

Learning new information requires us to form novel associations between previously unrelated concepts and this can be aided by adopting efficient mnemonic strategies at encoding. To date, studies have demonstrated that drawing is a reliable encoding strategy for enhancing memory for individual items but the benefit of drawing for novel associations remains unclear. Formal models of the drawing effect suggest an integration of elaborative, pictorial, and motoric processes, however, much of the evidence in support of the drawing effect are based on experimental studies employing single item recall tasks – which inevitably say little about the retrieval of associative information. Here, we employ three experiments to investigate the role of the drawing effect on both item and associative recall. In Experiment 1, participants encoded single items by either drawing, doodling, or writing and later were asked to recall previously studied items. In Experiment 2, we assess whether the drawing effect can be observed for associative recall of previously unrelated word pairs. Finally, in Experiment 3, we compare to drawing of novel associations to another elaborative encoding technique – namely, mental imagery. Overall, the results suggest that although drawing enhances single item and associative recall compared to writing, drawing does not result in any overall significant benefit compared to imagining during an associative recall test. Our data extends the benefits of drawing to novel associative information and importantly, suggests that the way in which multi-component stimuli are encoded via drawing is crucial for learning.
THE UNEQUAL CITY. Spatial Heritage and the Construction of Narratives of Exclusion: Architecture, Street Names and Monuments - Lima, 1845 to 1945 -
Authors: Lizarzaburu Montani Javier
Published: January 2024

The present work addresses the links between spatial heritage, memory, and citizenship in the construction of narratives of exclusion in the city of Lima. To this end, three urban symbols are analyzed from a critical perspective: architecture, street names, and monuments in the historic center, from 1845 to 1945. The chosen period corresponds to a seminal time in the formation of the new capital after independence from Spain; it concludes in the years following the celebration of its first centennial and the impact it had on the city at large. The core purpose of this research is to analyze how these symbols were used in the construction of a city imaginary, what mechanisms were used to this end, and what possible reasons may explain this process. Among the main conclusions, this thesis reveals a series of decisions taken by the elites of the time that were intended to immortalize the memory and the identity of a white minority, thus defining a place largely unprepared to become the capital of a multicultural country. This investigation suggests a new way of understanding the historical tensions in Lima, between its indigenous and Hispanic identities, from the perspective of its spatial heritage. The results seek to stimulate a critical review of the city's legacy and contribute to the formulation of a vision of common futures, considering its diverse origins, identities, and memories.
Enhancing Psychophysiological Well-Being through Nature-based Soundscapes: An Examination of Heart Rate Variability in a Cross-Over Study
Authors: Kumpulainen Susanne , Esmaeilzade Samad , Pesonen Markus , Brazão Catarina , Pesola Arto J
Published: January 2024

Stress and psychological disorders are substantial public health concerns, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. This study investigated the psychophysiological benefits of nature-based soundscapes, drawing on the biophilia hypothesis. Using a randomized, acute cross-over design, 53 healthy participants experienced either a nature-based or a reference soundscape for 10 minutes, with a 2-minute washout period. The nature-based soundscape integrated nature sounds with elements of music to create an immersive nature experience. A calm coffee shop soundscape without discernible speech was selected as a reference to represent a typical urban relaxation environment. Heart rate variability (HRV) was the primary outcome, with exploratory outcomes including heart and respiratory rates, and questionnaires assessing affective well-being, creativity, and belonging. Results showed that the nature-based soundscape significantly improved HRV and reduced heart and respiratory rates, indicating enhanced parasympathetic activity. Participants reported lower feelings of anxiety and depression, and increased feelings of comfort, enthusiasm, creativity, and belonging. This study highlights the multifaceted benefits of nature-based soundscapes, suggesting they could serve as easily accessible therapeutic options for promoting immediate recovery and reducing daily stress in healthy individuals.
MusAIcology: AI Music and the Need for a New Kind of Music Studies
Authors: Sturm Bob L. T. , Déguernel Ken , Huang Rujing Stacy , Holzapfel André , Bown Oliver , Collins Nick , Sterne Jonathan , Vila Laura Cros , Casini Luca , Cabrera David Alberto , Drott Eric A , Ben-Tal Oded
Published: January 2024

As music generated using artificial intelligence ({\em AI music})becomes more prevalent -- originating not only from individualsbut also services or businesses centered around scalable content generation --the need to study it and its impacts grow.How can this material and its sources be meaningfully studied and critically engaged with, however?The paper begins to answer this principal question by considering six aspects of AI music,discussing each with reference to a contemporary AI music service: {\em Boomy.com}.The six aspects are: the service or company;the founders and employees;the use of the service;the users; the algorithms;and finally the resulting music.While our investigations are preliminary,they open several interesting avenues of explorationfor many disciplines and their intersections,motivating a new kind of music studies.Given the speed at whichAI music and associated services are developing, we post this paper to {\em SocArXiv}and move on to establishing a community defining and exploring this new kind of music studiesvia organizing {\em The First International Conference in AI Music Studies:Prospects, Challenges and Methodologies of Studying AI Music in the Humanities}.\footnote{\url{https://boblsturm.github.io/aimusicstudies2024}}
“They Only Silence the Truth”: COVID-19 Retractions and the Politicization of Science
Authors: Abhari Rod , Horvat Agnes
Published: January 2024

Retracted COVID-19 articles have circulated widely on social media. Although retractions are intended to correct the scientific record, when trust in science is low, they may instead be interpreted as evidence of censorship or simply ignored. We performed a content analysis of tweets about the two most widely shared retracted COVID-19 articles, Mehra20 and Rose21, before and after their retractions. When Mehra20 was seen as a politicized attack on Donald Trump and hydroxychloroquine, its retraction was broadly shared as proof that the article had been published for political reasons. However, when Rose21 was seen as evidence of vaccine harm by vaccine opponents, its retraction was either ignored or else framed as a conspiracy to censor the truth. These results demonstrate how retractions can be selectively used by scientific counterpublics to reframe the regulation of science as evidence of its institutional corruption.
Nutritional improvement of rice straw treated with urea-molasses and its effect on in vitro digestibility
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Technology, School of Agriculture, Yaba College of Technology, Nigeria., Akinfemi A. , Adebayo B. J. ,   Department of Agricultural Technology, School of Agriculture, Yaba College of Technology, Nigeria., Ogunbosoye D. O. ,   Department of Animal Production, Fisheries and Aquaculture, College of Agriculture, Kwara State University, Nigeria.
Published: January 2024

Rice straw was treated with urea-molasses and concealed in a polythene bag for a week. The resultant impact of the treatment on the chemical composition and in vitro gas production parameters was analyzed. Feed grade urea was dissolved in water containing molasses equivalent to 0.5% (T2), 1.0% (T3), 1.5% (T4) and 2% T5 (w/v) were sprayed on 100 g quadruplicate samples. The result obtained showed significant (p<0.05) variations in the chemical composition. The NDF (%) ranged from 75.12 (T1) to 48.78 (T5), ADF (%) 42.34 (T1) to 34.96 (T5) and ADL (%) 16.42 (T1) to 10.25 (T5). These contents decreased progressively with increased inclusion of urea-molasses. However, treatment effect as affected by cellulose content was not significant (p>0.05). The (b, ml) ranged from 6 (T1) to 26 (T5). Treatments 4 had the highest crude protein (13.1%) and ash (2.83%). Gas volume at 24 hours differed significantly (p<0.05) with values increasing with inclusion of urea-molasses from 14 ml (T1) to 30 ml (T5). The methane production increases proportionally with Gv24 with values ranging from 5.33 ml (T1) to 16.00 ml (T5). Treatment of rice straw was affected SCFA (µmol) production. Treatment effect on potassium and phosphorus was significant (p<0.05) while Na, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by treatment. Urea-molasses treatment rice straw improved the fermentation quality and, estimated organic matter digestibility, metabolisable energy and short chain fatty acid.
Evaluation of different weed management practices for controlling purple nut sedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) on maize (Zea mays L.) yield in Malle District of South Omo Zone
Authors:   Department of plant protection, Southern Agricultural Research Institute, Jinka Agricultural Research Center,  P. O. Box. 96. Jinka, Ethiopia., Adila Wondimu , Eshete Yesuf ,   Department of plant protection, Southern Agricultural Research Institute, Jinka Agricultural Research Center,  P. O. Box. 96. Jinka, Ethiopia.
Published: January 2024

The experiment was conducted at Malle district of South Omo zone during 2017 and 2018 main maize cropping season with objective of evaluating the effect of integrated weed management techniques for controlling Cyperus rotundus in the study area. In the experiment, the maize variety BH140 was used. Field experiments were conducted with four treatments by a randomized complete block design with four replications. The result indicated that the highest C. rotundus population was recorded from treatments with farmer practices while due to herbicidal action the initial emerged C. rotundus weed population was low on Dual Gold 960 EC treated plots; however, in the later stage of crop growth the weed type converted to broad leaved species which have huge impact on the yield of the crop. The highest grain yield was obtained from plots under double hand weeding while the lowest grain yield was recorded from Dual Gold 960 EC treated plots. This result implies that the double hand weeding help to reduce the weed population and improves the crop performance while single herbicide treatment only control C. rotundus and broad leave weed species but cause huge decline in grain yield. From the above results, it was concluded that hand weeding at 21 and 35 days after sowing gives higher yield in comparison to other treatments, so, this practice was recommended for the effective management of C. rotundus in Malle district.
A regression model to depict the influence of physiological and agronomic traits on yield of wheat cultivars under water stress in Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors:   Department of dryland crop and Horticultural science, Faculty of dryland agriculture and natural resources, Mekelle University, P. O. Box 231, Ethiopia., Mossa Mohammed Mebrahtu
Published: January 2024

Although developing drought tolerance is the major objective of plant breeders, it is hampered by the lack of effective selection criteria. Most plant breeders use the single trait approach in identifying the crop response to drought condition, and little priority is given to the physiological traits. Thus, all the possible traits have not been critically evaluated, and correlation among the different traits and their relation to drought has not yet been critically examined. With those facts field and greenhouse, experiments were conducted at Mekelle University to determine the relationship among the different physiological, agronomic, yield and yield component of wheat genotype under water stress. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design using six wheat genotypes and three water regimes with three replications. Pearson’s correlation coefficient at 5% indicated that yield was positively and significantly correlated with relative water content, excised leaf water retention, spike length, number of seed per spike, and seed weight in contrast stress susceptibility index and rate of water loss were negatively associated with yield. Regression analysis also showed the rate of water loss, excised leaf water retention, and relative water content explain more of the variation (90%) in grain yield under different water stress regimes. Hence plant breeders should incorporate these physiological traits as a selection criterion in their breeding program for screening water stress on wheat cultivars.
Commonly patronized fish species in Iseyin Local Government Area, Iseyin, Oyo State
Authors:   Department of Fisheries Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Nigeria., Bankole A. F. , Adeosun O. ,   Department of Fisheries Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Nigeria., Adelodun O. B. ,   Department of Fisheries Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Nigeria., Taiwo A. M. ,   Department of Cooperative Economics and Management, Oyo State College of Agriculture  and Technology, Igboora, Nigeria.
Published: January 2024

The study analysed commonly patronized fish species and fish form in 7 markets in Iseyin, Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State. A total of 105 respondents were randomly selected; data was analysed using simple descriptive and Chi square analysis. Women are the major fish sellers (75.24%). Age distribution showed that majority of respondents (41.90%) falls between 41 to 50 years, both married (73.33%) and singles (3.81%) are involved in the business, majority of who has being in the trade for over a decade. A wide range of fish species were sold in their markets such as; Small/medium sized hake (28.44%) (most patronized), horse mackerel (21.10%), mackerel (17.43%), bonga (14.67%), sardines (13.76%), big sized hake (10.09%), catfish and other dried marine fish. Frozen fish has the highest patronage (41.90%). Factors determining species and forms of fish sold are; paucity of funds for investments (98.09%), consumer’s choice (93.37%), demand for frozen fish (54.29%), demand for smoked fish (50.48%), demand for dried fish (39.05%) and demand for fresh fish (10.48%). Constraints to fish retailing are; financial incapability (98.09%), inadequate storage facilities (96.19%), epileptic power supply (91.43%), consumer’s choices (86.67%), transportation (77.14%), and price fluctuation (67.62%). The chi square analysis revealed that factors determining fish sold such as: consumer’s choice (X2=24.450, p<0.05), demand for frozen fish (X2= 34.589, p<0.05) and paucity of funds (X2=8.828, p<0.05) have a significant relationship with type of fish sold in the study area. Fish marketing in Iseyin is a lucrative venture; a wide range of fish species are marketed in different product presentations. Hence, Government and private organizations should encourage fish marketers by investing more in the provision of facilities that will enhance sales.
Effect of weeding frequency and interval on onion (Allium cepa L.) bulb yield grown under irrigation condition at Arba Minch, Southern Ethiopia
Authors:   South Agricultural Research Institute, Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center, Crop Research Department,  P.O. Box 2228, Arba Minch, Ethiopia., Mensa Awoke , Sultan Keyredin ,   South Agricultural Research Institute, Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center, Crop Research Department,  P.O. Box 2228, Arba Minch, Ethiopia., Chencha Dizgo ,   South Agricultural Research Institute, Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center, Crop Research Department,  P.O. Box 2228, Arba Minch, Ethiopia.
Published: January 2024

Field experiment was conducted at Arba Minch during 2017 and 2018 cropping seasons under irrigation condition to determine the effect of weeding frequency and interval on weeds and bulb yield of onion. The experiment was laid out in factorial arrangement in randomized complete block design with three replications and comprised of 18 treatments: four weeding frequencies (2, 3, 4 and 5 times) and four weeding intervals (at 10, 13, 17 and 25 days) compared with weedy and weed-free checks. Results showed that all the parameters considered in this study were significant (p<0.05) among the treatments. The lowest weed density (27.33 m-2 in 2017 and 24.26 m-2 in 2018) and dry weed biomass weight (0.83 t ha-1 in 2017 and 0.82 t ha-1 in 2018) were recorded in the weed free check without statistical difference with the values received from weeding interval at 10, 13 and 17 for four and five times weeding frequency in both cropping seasons. The highest weed control efficiency (83.70% in 2017 and 82.82% in 2018) was computed in the weed free plots. In the 2017 cropping season, the highest marketable bulb yield (32.8 t ha-1) was recorded in the weed free check, which was statistically similar with the result obtained in four and five times weeding frequency at 10, 13 and 17 days weeding interval. Similar trends were observed during 2018 cropping season. Thus, three to five times frequency of weeding at 10 days weeding interval could be recommended in the study area for efficient weed management and optimization of the bulb yield and profits in onion production.
On-farm comparative evaluation of Solomon hay-box brooder and Mekete bamboo brooders at Basketo Special District, Southern Ethiopia
Authors:   Arbaminch Agricultural Research Centre, P. O. Box 2228, Arbaminch, Ethiopia., Manjura Mekete , Olke Otoro ,   Southern Agricultural Research Institute (SARI), P. O. Box 2126, Hawassa, Ethiopia.
Published: January 2024

The study was conducted in two peasant associations (ZabaEla and GezaAyima) and in one city administration (laska) at Basketo special district of SNNPR, Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to compare Solomon hay-box brooder with Mekete bamboo brooder for growth and production performances of day-old chickens. Ten randomly selected households (5 participants with Solomon hay-box and 5 participants with Mekete Bamboo brooder) were involved and each received 50-dayoldkoikok breed chicks. The brooders were used during the night whereas chick-runs were used to hold and feed the chicks during the day. During the brooding period (up to 8 weeks old), chicks were fed on commercial starter ration. Water was provided to chickens at ad libitum. All collected data were analyzed by using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 20.0. The total cost for building Solomon hay-box with 50 chicken capacities was 4600BIRR and 910BIRR for Mekete bamboo brooder. About 92, 89.2, 87.6 and 86% of chick survivability was recorded at 2nd, 4th, 6th and 8th weeks, respectively at Solomon hay-box and for Mekete bamboo brooder the result was 94.8, 91.6, 90 and 88.8% at 2nd, 4th, 6th and 8th weeks, respectively. The average age at first egg laying at Solomon hay-boxwas 139.6 days and 145.4 days at Mekete bamboo brooder. Average weight of eggs at Solomon hay-boxwas 39.16 g and 38.38 g at Mekete bamboo brooder. The average weight of male and female chicken at 20 weeks of age was 1.63 and 1.18 kg, respectively at Solomon hay-box and 1.61 and 1.18 kg for Mekete bamboo brooder. Both brooders have almost similar capacity in all compared parameters except that of cost of input. So, introducing economical brooder is compulsory to increases profitability of farmers.
Comparative analysis of food security status of male and female headed farming households in Imo State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria., Ibeagwa O. B. , Nwaiwu I. U. O., ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria., Ukoha I. I., ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria., Osuji M. N., ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria., Essien U. A., ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria., Chikezie C. ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria., Nwachukwu E.U. ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria.
Published: January 2024

This study analyzed the food security status of male and female headed farming households in Imo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study compared the quantity of food produced and the factors influencing the food security status of the respondents. Primary data used for the study were collected from sixty-four (64) respondents in the study area. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, z test and logistic regression model. Results showed that the female headed households produced more food than male headed households; however, male headed households were significantly more food secured (Zcal = 2.878). Key variables that positively influenced the food security status of male headed households were age (p<0.01), farm size (p<0.05), household size (p<0.05), educational level (p<0.1), farming income and total depreciation of capital assets including farm implements (p<0.05). Farming experience (p<0.05), age (p<0.01) farm size (p<0.05), extension contacts (p<0.01), and membership of farmers cooperatives (p<0.10) were the key variables that positively influenced the food security status of female headed households. The study recommended the review of existing land policies so as to give farmers easier access to land for food production. Also, agricultural extension services should be revived and made more proactive and effectively service oriented.
Resource use efficiency of broiler production in Owerri Agricultural Zone of Imo State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria., Obi-Nwandikom C. O. , Ehirim N. C. ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria., Anyiam K. H. ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria., Ibeagwa O. B. ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria., Achukwu E. C. ,   Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
Published: January 2024

The study analysed the resource use efficiency of broiler production in Owerri rural agricultural zone, Imo State. Data for the study were collected using structured questionnaire, administered to 120 broiler farmers who were selected using two stage sampling techniques. Data were analysed using descriptive and econometric tools such as ordinary least square regression analysis to estimate the production function of the broiler farmers and allocative efficiency model to determine the resource use efficiency of the farm inputs in broiler production. The results showed that stock size, labour and depreciation were significant for output of broiler at 1 and 5% respectively. The results further showed that resources used to produce broiler were not efficiently and effectively utilized, most of the resources were either overutilized or underutilized in the production of broilers in the study area. The factors of production such as fixed assets (-54.31) and expenses on feed (-6.16) were overused while stock size (27.82), labour (630.47), and drugs/vaccines (5.7496) were underused. The results also showed that the returns to scale of broiler production was 1.055, showing an increase of 1% input used in the production will lead to a proportionate increase of 0.06% in the broiler output. The need to educate the farmers in the study area on the efficient use of farm input resources to achieve optimum output and increase profit was recommended. It was also recommended that government should provide long term credit access to broiler farmers to enable them to allocate resources more efficiently for optimal production.
Free radical scavenging and metal ion chelating properties of differently pigmented rice varieties
Authors:   Graduate School of Biotechnology, University of Jember, Indonesia., Pradipta Sandy , Ubaidillah Mohammad ,   Graduate School of Biotechnology, University of Jember, Indonesia; Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jember, Jember, Indonesia; The Center of Excellence on Crop Industrial Biotechnology (PUI-PT BioTIn), University of Jember, Jember,  Indonesia., Siswoyo Tri Agus ,   Graduate School of Biotechnology, University of Jember, Indonesia; Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jember, Jember, Indonesia; The Center of Excellence on Crop Industrial Biotechnology (PUI-PT BioTIn), University of Jember, Jember,  Indonesia.
Published: January 2024

Pigmented rice (Oryza sativa L.) becomes interestingly important in agroindustry because it contains high phytochemical compounds that can be antioxidants and metal ion chelating. This study attempted to relate the content of phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanin, and bioactive phytochemicals activity from differently pigmented rice (red and black) varieties. The bioactive phytochemical activities were evaluated by measuring free radical scavenging, hydroxyl scavenging, and metal ion chelating activity. The result showed that the highest phenolic, flavonoids, and anthocyanin content found in black rice, followed by red rice and non-pigmented rice. The anthocyanin in black rice was significantly higher (p  0.05) than in red and non-pigmented rice. The chlorophyll and carotenoids contents in all samples varied from 0.03 to 1.42 µg g-1 and 0.26 to 0.53 µg g-1, respectively. The antioxidant and metal ion chelating activities in black and red rice were significantly higher than non-pigmented rice. The correlation analysis showed that the phenols, flavonoids, and phytochemical pigments have a positive correlation (p  0.05) with antioxidant and metal chelating activity. In this study, black and red rice varieties showed the potential natural resources for the important effect of nutraceutical food products and pharmaceuticals.
Effect of foliar application of gibberellic acid (GA3) on quality attributes of calendula flowers (Calendula officinalis) cv. Gitana Fiesta in Chitwan, Nepal
Authors:   Department of Horticulture, Agriculture and Forestry University, Chitwan, Nepal., Shrestha Bishal , Karki Ashmita ,   Department of Horticulture, Agriculture and Forestry University, Chitwan, Nepal., Shrestha Jenny ,   Department of Horticulture, Agriculture and Forestry University, Chitwan, Nepal.
Published: January 2024

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of gibberellic acid (GA3) on quality attributes of calendula (Calendula officinalis L.). Single factorial experiment based on completely randomized design including 7 treatments and 3 replications was carried out. The treatments used were different concentrations of GA3 (0, 50, 100,150, 200, 250 and 300 ppm). Results showed that foliar application of GA3 had positive effect on quality of calendula flowers. First bud initiation and first flowering were recorded significantly earlier (p<0.05) if plants were sprayed with T5 (GA3@200ppm) treatment. Similarly, the study showed that the maximum flower diameter (6.43 cm) was recorded in T6 (GA3@250ppm) which was significantly similar (p>0.05) to T5 (GA3@200ppm) treatment whereas minimum flower diameter (4.19 cm) was recorded in control. Significant differences (p<0.05) among treatments were recorded in weight of flower where maximum weight of flower (3.77 gm) was recorded in T6 (GA3@250ppm), while minimum weight of flower (2.86 gm) was recorded in control plants. These results suggest that GA3 of dose 200 ppm to 250 ppm was ideal for enhancing the quality of flowers in calendula.
Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) associated with scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) on citrus trees in Coastal and Lower Eastern Counties, Kenya
Authors:   School of Biological Sciences, University of Nairobi, 30197, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya., Githae Michael , Ong’amo George O. ,   School of Biological Sciences, University of Nairobi, 30197, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya., Nderitu John ,   Department of Crop Science and Protection, University of Nairobi, 30197, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya., Watson Gillian W. ,   Department of Life Sciences, the National History Museum, London, SW7 5BD, U.K., Kinuthia Wanja ,   Invertebrate Zoology Section, National Museums of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya.
Published: January 2024

A survey of citrus orchards was conducted in Kilifi, Kwale, Machakos and Makueni counties, Kenya to collect and identify ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and natural enemies associated with scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) feeding on citrus trees (Sapindales: Rutaceae). Nine ant species were found associated with nine scale insect species feeding on three citrus species (Citrus limon, C. reticulata and C. sinensis) for their honeydew. The ants associated with the scales in the study areas were: Cataulacus brevisetosus (Forel), Camponotus rufiglaucus (Jerdon), Crematogaster castanea (Smith), Cr. sjostedti (Mayr), Monomorium afrum (Andre), Myrmicaria opaciventris (Emery), Oecophylla longinoda (Latreille), Pheidole megacephalla (Fabricius), and Technomyrmex albipes (Fr. Smith). The ant Myrmicaria opaciventris was recorded attending four scale insects’ species: Coccus hesperidum, Co. viridis, Pulvinaria polygonata (Hemiptera: Coccidae) and Pseudococcus cryptus (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) in Kilifi County. Host-plant identities and localities surveyed are also presented. These new data for citrus-growing areas in Kenya will contribute to the development of integrated pest management programs on citrus.