bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Bayesian nonlinear inversion of seismic body-wave attenuation factors
Authors: Gao S.
Published: September 2021

It is a well-known fact that the uncertainties in measuring relative attenuation factors within a local or regional seismic network are usually high, due to noise of different kinds and unrealistic assumptions. Numerical experiments using nine synthetic seismograms, created using t* values ranging from 0.1 to 0.9 sec, reveal that the commonly used spectral ratio method is strongly affected by the selection of data processing parameters such as width of the spectral smoothing window, reference station, and so on. The numerical experiments demonstrate that a Bayesian nonlinear inversion approach that directly matches the spectra is better at finding the correct parameters used to generate the synthetic seismograms. The Bayesian inversion approach uses a priori information to simultaneously search for the t* values, the common spectrum for all the records from an event, and the near-receiver amplification factors by using all the recordings from an event. When z, the ratio of Gaussian noise to signal, ≦ 0.1, the spectral ratio and Bayesian methods yield similar results with mean t* measurement errors <0.05 sec. For 0.1 < z ≦ 0.8, the mean errors of the spectral ratio method are larger than 0.1 sec and in some cases as large as 0.6 sec, while those of the Bayesian method are less than 0.08 sec. Frequency-independent t* and near-receiver amplification factors are assumed. A multi-step procedure is proposed to reject records with a large misfit.
Nonlinearity, liquefaction, and velocity variation of soft soil layers in Port Island, Kobe, during the Hyogo-ken Nanbu earthquake
Authors: Aguirre Jorge , Irikura Kojiro
Published: September 2021

Clear nonlinear behavior is analyzed from the acceleration records of the 1995 Hyogo-ken Nanbu earthquake at Port Island, Kobe. From four triaxial instruments placed at four different depths, the surficial effects during strong ground motions were compared with those during weak motions before and after the mainshock. We used a spectral ratio technique and a nonlinear inversion for velocity structure to analyze the data. From the spectral analysis, we observed a large variation of the spectral ratios between the surface and different depths during the strong ground motions and during the liquefied state. The spectral ratios after the mainshock (i.e., after the liquefied state) are different from those before the mainshock. The peak frequencies in the spectral ratios after the mainshock are shifted to lower frequencies with respect to those in the spectral ratios before the mainshock. We inverted the S-wave velocities using a genetic algorithm technique to determine the velocity structure before, during, and after the mainshock. The S-wave velocity structure before and after the mainshock was found to be different. Specifically, the S-wave velocity of the second layer (5 m to 16 m depth) after the mainshock was 20% lower than before. Our analysis shows that the liquefied state remains at least 3 hr after the mainshock but no more than 24 hr. The rigidity of the soil decreased close to zero when liquefaction happened and later increases gradually following a trend that resembles a consolidation curve. The strong influence of nonlinearity during the mainshock yielded a big reduction of the horizontal surface ground motions, so that the observed horizontal peak acceleration was only about 25% of the peak acceleration expected from the linear theory. However, the nonlinear effects in the vertical peak acceleration were not significant.
Seimological studies at Parkfield V: Characteristic microearthquake sequences as fault-zone drilling targets
Authors: Nadeau R. M. , McEvilly T. V.
Published: September 2021

Studies at very high resolution of microearthquakes at Parkfield, California, since 1987 reveal a systematic organization in space and time, dominated by clustering of nearly identical, regularly occurring microearthquakes (characteristic events) on 10 to 20-m-wide patches within the fault zone. More than half of the 4000+ events in our 1987 to 1996 catalog exhibit this trait. In general, recurrence intervals (0.5 to 2 yr) scale with the magnitude of the repeating events for the on-scale range (Mw 0.2 to 1.3) in this study. The similar waveforms, superimposed locations, quasi-periodic recurrence, and uniform size of these characteristic events permit relative hypocenter location accuracy of meters and predictable occurrence times within windows of a few months. Clustered characteristic events occur at depths as shallow as about 3 km, and these are feasible targets for deep scientific drilling and observation at the focus of a subsequent small earthquake within an active plate-boundary fault zone. At Parkfield, the achievable location accuracy to which a hypocenter can be specified as well as the predictability of its occurrence time appear to be uniquely favorable for in situ fault-zone measurements.
Comparison of recent probabilistic seismic hazard maps for southern California
Authors: Stirling Mark W. , Wesnousky Steven G.
Published: September 2021

Probabilistic seismic hazard (PSH) maps for southern California produced from the models of Ward (1994), the Working Group on California Earthquake Probabilities (1995), and the U.S. Geological Survey and California Division of Mines and Geology (Frankel et al., 1996; Petersen et al., 1996) show the peak ground accelerations predicted with each model to occur at 10% probability in 50 years, and the probability that 0.2 g will occur in 30 years, for “rock” site conditions. Differences among the maps range up to 0.4 g and 50%, respectively. We examine the locations and magnitudes of the differences as a basis to define the issues and avenues of research that may lead to more confident estimates of PSH in the future. Our analysis shows that three major factors contribute to the observed differences between the maps. They are the size of maximum magnitude assigned to a given fault, the proportion of predicted earthquakes that are distributed off the major faults, and the use of geodetic strain data to predict earthquake rates.
Evidence from a cluster of small earthquakes for a fault at 18 km depth beneath Oak Ridge, southern California
Authors: Shearer Peter M.
Published: September 2021

A swarm of about 50 small earthquakes (M ∼ 1.5) occurred for a month during 1989 beneath Oak Ridge, southern California. Location accuracy using conventional analysis of arrival-time picks is limited for these events by the weak, emergent nature of arrivals on the available seismograms. However, waveform cross-correlation techniques are found to provide precise relative event locations due to the similarity of the waveforms recorded at individual stations. The relocated events form a small cluster about 1 km across at a depth of ∼ 18 km and are aligned along a plane that dips 35° to the northwest. Estimated standard errors for the locations are generally less than 50 m. The time evolution of the sequence shows a gradual migration of activity away from its initiation point. Three additional events occurred several months later; these align along the same plane but are displaced about 500 m to the southeast from the main swarm. Reliable fault-plane solutions are difficult to obtain for these events due to the small number of station records available, the limited range of takeoff angles, and the weak initial arrivals on many of the seismograms. Stacking the records at each station over the different events greatly reduces prearrival noise levels and assists in resolving the average P first motions. Analysis of these first-motion data indicates that the slip planes of probable focal mechanisms are not in agreement with the plane defined by the seismicity. The seismicity alignment may represent the extension of the Simi fault, in which case some shallowing of the fault dip would be required to match the observed 35° dip at 18 km.
Commentary on the Decision of the Supreme Administrative Court of 13 November 2013, II OZ 974/13 (LEX no. 1398284)
Authors: Lebowa Dorota
Published: September 2021

The thesis of the commented judgement concerns issues which are significant in the practice of examining an application in the course of administrative court proceedings regarding a request for reinstatement of the deadline. The first is a need to settle the beginning of the term for submitting such a request, the second – the method of examining the application for reinstatement of the deadline in the event of the impossibility to determine whether the deadline for its submission has been met. In the jurisprudence, it is consonantly assumed that the formal condition of an application for the reinstatement of the deadline is that the circumstances justifying the admissibility of the application are plausible due to the observance of the one-week deadline for its submission from the date of expiration of the cause of the deadline failure. According to Art. 49 § 1 of the Act of 30 August 2002 – Law on proceedings before administrative courts, if the letter of a party cannot receive the correct course due to failure to observe formal conditions, the chairman shall request the party to supplement or correct it within seven days under pain of leaving the letter unprocessed. The Supreme Administrative Court reasonably decided that if the content of the application cannot infer an exact moment in which the cause of the deadline failure ceased to exist, it should be examined on the merits. Equally, there are no grounds for rejecting the application as belated, based on Art. 88 of the Law on proceedings before administrative courts, because the fact of submitting the application after the deadline cannot be presumed.
The Contestability of Resolutions of an Inter-Municipal Association Meeting
Authors: Dąbrowska Sylwia
Published: September 2021

The objective of local government administration, and therefore the objective of each local government unit is to perform public tasks of local importance, the implementation of which is each time connected with meeting the current, continuous needs of local communities. Most of the tasks connected with satisfying public needs are to be performed by the commune as the basic local government unit. The legislator expressed it in the content of Art. 6 of the Act of 8 March 1990 on Local Government, stating that the scope of a municipality’s activity includes all public matters of local importance, not reserved by the Acts for the benefit of other entities, additionally, unless the Acts provide otherwise, it is up to the municipality to resolve these matters. As a rule, the tasks are performed by the municipality’s own “means and forces”. However, the legislator has provided for the possibility of cooperation and collaboration between the municipalities, which is facilitated by the establishment of inter-municipal associations, as stipulated in Art. 64 of the Act on Local Government. A form of externalisation of the activity of an inter-municipal association is the adoption of resolutions by the assembly of an inter-municipal association. The study also analyzes the modes of appealing against the association’s assembly’s resolutions.
A literature review on esthetics in complete denture
Authors: Singh Ramandeep , Sharma Sonali , Javaid Aquib , Cicilia Loli Asusa , Udhey Chander , Deep Singh Raman
Published: September 2021

Denture esthetics in the field of prosthodontics has become a prime most demand of the edentulous patients in the recent time. The different processes that are required in the fabrication of complete denture in terms of esthetics constitutes from impression making, selection of teeth, occlusion, proper vertical dimension, accurate recording of the occlusal plane and a good smile line.
Transnational corporations and civil society as network society actors
Authors: Ravochkin Nikita
Published: September 2021

The article examines the topic of determinants affecting the features of the practical implementation of ideas in the context of a digital society. The features of the digital model of society as a version of the post-industrial society are presented. The urgency of rethinking the problem as a determinant of social development has been substantiated. The essential features of the main trends of the digital society are analyzed and identified, which include the traditional interpretation of the inevitably distorted embodiment of ideas in social phenomena. Demonstrated are the changes represented by the identity of individuals and brought to the coalescence and the virtual level of being. The inevitability of taking into account the systemic effect of implemented ideas, which affects not only the sphere of their direct implementation, is noted. Theatricalization of digital society in the spheres of public life is highlighted. The problem of simulacra is actualized, allowing powerful actors to distort the original meaning of ideas in their own interests. The emphasis is made on the importance of linguistic analysis for adequate perception and understanding of the content of ideas. In conclusion, generalizations that form the theoretical and methodological basis of practical applications in the society of the digital world.
Conceptual difficulties of applying the theory of mirror neurons in the neural network tools of artificial societies
Authors: Porovolovich Tatiana O.
Published: September 2021

The article presents a methodological analysis of the neurophysiological concepts of mirror neurons, which offer both explanatory models of the functioning of consciousness and social interaction, and the development of their computer model. The physicalist project for the study of consciousness and social interaction, based on the study of mirror neurons, tries to offer a highly specialized, neurobiological explanation of consciousness and social interaction. The two most priority tasks of this project are: through the most accurate study and description of the functioning of the natural neurobiological system, to offer an explanation of natural high-level (relative to the neurobiological level) mental and social phenomena and phenomena; and based on the neurobiological methodological apparatus, the creation of such an artificial system that, like the natural, neurobiological one, would have a mentality and could enter into social interaction. These tasks are directly related to the reductionist natural science attitude, which assumes the existence of a strict causal connection between the neural organization and the functioning of consciousness and social interaction. The article considers the possibility of combining neurophysiological data on the work of mirror neurons and interpretations in the understanding of consciousness, as well as the possibility of creating their computer model. As a result, arguments are proposed both against the restriction of the methodology of scientific research of social and mental phenomena exclusively by natural scientific practices, and the need to distinguish between low-level neurobiological processes and high-level mental and social phenomena. Using these arguments, the authors hypothesize that the study of the brain is insufficient to create artificial systems endowed with consciousness and capable of entering into social interaction.
Estudo do desempenho térmico de uma edificação da POLI-UPE de acordo com a NBR 15575
Authors: De Araújo Hitalo José Tavares , Batista Pedro Igor Bezerra , Póvoas Yêda Vieira , Rocha Joaquin Humberto Aquino
Published: September 2021

Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo verificar o método da simulação sugerido pela NBR 15575-1 como procedimento de qualificação do desempenho térmico de uma edificação. Para isso, foi adotada a edificação da portaria da Escola Politécnica da Universidade de Pernambuco que se localiza na cidade do Recife. A simulação foi efetuada com o software EnergyPlus. Buscou-se também comparar a temperatura do ar interno do cômodo da edificação de maior pico de temperatura, de acordo com os resultados da simulação, com medições in loco através do uso de sensor de temperatura. Os resultados mostraram que a desconsideração, pela simulação, das cargas internas que atuam na edificação, assim como a utilização apenas do valor máximo diário da temperatura do ar exterior para o dia típico de verão como critério, podem exercer considerável influência na qualificação do desempenho térmico de uma edificação.
Restoration of the potentialities of a degraded ferralsol using cocoa bean teguments in Ahoue (South East, Côte d’ivoire)
Authors: Patrice Kouadio Koffi , Jeanne Bongoua-Devisme Affi , Emile Yoboué Kouadio , Nantarie Touré , Moise Beugré Christian , Félix Aka Kacou , Albert Yao-Kouamé
Published: September 2021

This study consists of using the cocoa bean teguments as a means of sustainable production growth and environmental preservation. It aims to characterize the effects of the teguments on the chemical properties of a Ferralsol in Ahoué (Côte d'Ivoire). In an experimental block design of Fisher, three treatments of Cocoa bean teguments: T1 (10 t.ha-1), T2 (15 t.ha-1), T3 (20 t.ha-1) and one Control T0 have been set up with four repetitions. The main results show that the contribution of cocoa bean teguments has a positive effect on all the characteristics studied. The values obtained of the pH of the T0 and the T1, T2, T3 indicates, respectively 4.2; 5.4; 5.5 and 5.8. As regards the contents of the CEC, the values obtained give: 2.32; 7.2; 11.44 and 12.5 cmol.kg-1, respectively, for T0, T1, T2 and T3 treatments. As for the organic matter, the contents obtained indicate the following values: T0 = 12.56 g.kg-1; T1 = 26.49 g.kg-1; T2 = 35.09 g.kg-1 and T3 = 38.08 g.kg-1. The data corresponding to the sum of the captions oscillated between 4.5 and 10.5 cmol.kg-1 according to the treatments.
Deteriorating agriculture: it's reasons and impacts on socio-economic profile of J&K state
Authors: Malik Ishfaq Ahmad , Rather Ajaz Ahmad
Published: September 2021

In terms of dependence on livelihoods and employment, the state of Jammu and Kashmir can be considered as agrarian, hence the overwhelming majority of the people live in rural areas. There are many reasons that have led to a dwindling share of GDP of the sector at a time when it should have retained its role given large proportion of people depending on it. These include: Reduction in public expenditure in the sector after reforms, decrease in agricultural land due to conversion, lack of appropriate irrigation facilities, and acute lack of infrastructure, lack of quality pesticides, occasional flooding, and lack of research. This imbalance between production and employment has resulted into compromised socio-economic profile of the state which includes: Low per capita income, compromised Food security, large Capital outflow, and Low employment. Therefore, in a bid to arrest any further deterioration in its socioeconomic profile, it is imperative for the state to initiate a stream of measures that will enhance the productivity in the sector and safeguard it from undue competition from abroad.
Growth Induction of Cavendish Buds (Musa Acuminata L.) on Difference Concentration of IBA and BA in Vitro
Authors: M Subandi , Jannata Arkhan , Hasani Sofiya
Published: September 2021

The propagation of Cavendish (Musa acuminata L.) seedling conventionally relatively took a longer time, not uniformed in quality and possibly has a disease that is derived from unhealthy mother stock. This research aimed to find the effect of IBA and BA on difference concentrations on the growth of plantlet, also to determine the optimum concentration of IBA and BA on the growth of Cavendish bud plantlets in vitro. This research had been carried out started from April to July 2018 in Tissue Culture Laboratory, Research Institute of Horticultural Seed Development of Pasir Banteng, Sumedang, West Java. Indonesia. The method used in this research was Completely Randomized Design with two factors. The first factor was IBA (i0 = 0 mg L-1, i1= 0,75 mg L-1, dan i2= 1,5 mg L1), and the second factor was BA (b1= 1 mg L-1 b2= 3 mg L-1 b3= 5 mg L-1 b4= 7 mg L-1), replicated three times. Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was used as a further test. The result showed an interaction between IBA and BA on the parameters of shoot growth and the number of leaves at 6 WAC. IBA showed an independent effect on the number of buds. The addition of 1,5 mg L-1 IBA and 3 mg L-1 BA was optimum for the growth of Cavendish bud explants.
Stability of Maize Hybrids across Environments Using Gge Biplot and Ammi Analysis
Authors: Abid Saleem , Zahid Saleem
Published: September 2021

Twenty six yellow maize hybrids on the basis of stability analysis were evaluated in National Uniform Maize Hybrid Yield Trials conducted across eight diversified environments of Pakistan. Combined analysis of variance based AMMI analysis shown highly significant differences for environments, genotypes and their interactions. The environments explained about 78 percent of the total yield variation followed by genotype by environment interaction. Environment was the main aspect that influences the performance of maize yield in study area. The first two interaction principal component axes (IPCA1 and IPCA2) explained about 63 percent of the grain yield variation due to genotype and genotype by environment interaction (GGE). The GGE biplot analysis shown that entry-2 (Mex-YLHY2) was the most stable hybrid and can be considered as adaptable to all the environments.
Microcredit Repayment among Smallholder Farmers: What Microfinance Institutions Need to Know
Authors: Jumpah Emmanuel Tetteh , Tetteh Emmanuel Kojo , Adams Abdulai
Published: September 2021

Microcredit default among borrowers has been rising in recent years but empirical evidence to ascertain the factors determining repayment remain lacking especially in developing countries like Ghana. This study contributes to addressing this knowledge gap. The study used data of 224 microcredit borrowers from Ada West and Ada East districts to analyse factors determining repayment rate among smallholder farmer borrowers. Applying the logistic regression model, farmer and credit specific characteristics were used to analyse the determinants of microcredit repayment. From the logistic regression, age, gender, income, and number of dependants increase the likelihood of repayment. However, membership of farmer based organization, experience, interest rate, and duration of loan repayment negatively influences loan repayment. The study also found delays in loan disbursement resulted in loan use for unproductive ventures and repayment challenges. In addition, lack of training for borrowers on credit management, and investment procedures adversely impacted on loan repayment. The paper recommends that MFIs should institute measures to train borrowers on loan utilization, focus on women clients, since they have higher probability of repayment, reduce interest rate as well as putting in place mechanisms to reduce cost of operations.
Analysis of Parboiled Rice Processing in Northern Region of Ghana: Determinants, Constraints and Opportunities
Authors: Adams Abdulai , Jumpah Emmanuel Tetteh , Ilesanmi Kehinde Damilola , Bennin Hajei Douri
Published: September 2021

Constraints,

Determinants,

Northern region,

Probit model,

Parboil rice

This paper aims at understanding the current dynamics that underlie the parboil rice industry in the Northern Region of Ghana and the analysis focuses on the determinants, constraints, and opportunities. Study utilise recent primary data collected (March-April 2019) from 270 rice processors across two districts purposively selected. Quantitative analysis was done using Probit and non-parametric methods to identify determinants and rank constraints associated with local rice parboiling. The findings revealed that rice parboiling is the primary activity of women and Jasmine and AGRA rice is the most commonly varieties processed. Grades and standards for parboiling rice exist but enforcement in the marketplace is weak. Education level, age and experience of processors are the key determinants of rice parboiling in the Northern Region. Inadequate technical know-how, low capacity of processing equipment, lack of grades and standards, general low prices and demand, and lack of finance are the main constraints hindering the proper development of the local rice industry and efficient participation of households in markets. Emerging opportunities in the sector which women and youth could take advantage for better livelihoods includes sale to institutions (schools, prisons, and hospitals), packaging, and the government input subsidy programme.
Determinants of Inter-Regional Financial Inclusion Heterogeneities in the Philippines
Authors: Burguillos Je-Al , Cassimon Danny
Published: September 2021

This study tries to contribute to the vast literature on promoting financial inclusion in Asia by exploring the key factors that affect the deepening of financial inclusion across the 17 regions of the Philippines for the period between 2013 and 2017. Using the regional multidimensional financial inclusion index (FII) that is developed by the Philippine central bank, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the study finds out that significant heterogeneities exist among regions, and that they persist over the period analyzed, suggesting most importantly that the least financially inclusive regions do not show rapid significant progress. Moreover, using different panel estimation techniques, we try to determine the possible factors that affect this inter-regional financial inclusion heterogeneities. Overall, we show that regional GDP per capita, population, a proxy for the availability of physical infrastructure, and the degree of mobile penetration are among the robust factors explaining the financial inclusion variations across these regions in the Philippines for the observed period.
Predicting Continuance Usage Intention of Mobile Payment: An Experimental Study of Bangladeshi Customers
Authors: Hossain Md. Alamgir , Hossain Md. Shakhawat , Jahan Nusrat
Published: September 2021

With the tremendous use of electronic devices, inhabitants create digital footsteps of their everyday lives, therefore, unlocked magnificent opportunities for the innovative companies to launch mobile payment system and offer value-added facilities. Mobile payment system has inaugurated a conspicuous phenomenon that can enable consumers to transform their mobile devices into a digital bank. Mobile payment has already proved its aids in the developed country market and projected to enjoy a cheerful prospect in the emerging market like Bangladesh. Moreover, a stream of research conducted in multiple countries regarding the domain of mobile payment, but a different scenario noticed in perspective of emerging country like Bangladesh as there hasn’t much yet. By giving importance on behavioral intention of consumer and specific characteristics of m-payments, this study aims to develop and test a research model by integrating usefulness and ease of use into the behavioral intentions. This study employed Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling to analyze database, which was composed of 328 samples. Results show that continuous usage intention is significantly affected by customer satisfaction. Perceived usefulness and ease of use are positively influence the continuance usage intention and satisfaction. The current study may extensively contribute to knowledge extension of two research streams-strategic management and service marketing-by implementing appropriate business model and service marketing strategies for m-payment users in Bangladesh and potentially other emerging markets.
Characterization of Bank Lending Requirements for Farmers in Zimbabwe
Authors: Ropafadzo Chigunhah Blessing , Ezekia Svotwa , Gerald Munyoro , Joseph Mabvure Tendai , Ignatius Govere
Published: September 2021

Bank credit availability is vital for enhancing farm productivity, income, and farmer livelihoods. This study sought to characterize the lending requirements considered by commercial banks when lending to farmers in Zimbabwe. Primary data were collected from a cross-section of 12 registered commercial banks. Relative Importance Index (RII) and Thematic analysis analysed data. High importance lending requirements that were always considered by all commercial banks when lending to farmers included credit history, productive farm assets, business registration, loan purpose, amount, and repayment source. Agricultural production skills, age, business plans, financial statements, social reputation, and project insurance were also mandatory in the majority of the commercial banks. High to medium importance lending requirements included extension support, business management skills, bank account ownership, own contribution, and personal savings. Medium importance requirements included formal basic education, alternative income, and freehold land ownership. Therefore, besides the widely documented collateral, local commercial banks also considered several other requirements when lending to farmers. Government policy should go beyond solving the collateral issue but benchmark its policies to other bank lending requirements. Farmers should also pursue personal development programs in agricultural production, business, and financial management. They should also invest in off-farm assets to ensure collateral availability.
Changing Pattern of Farm and Non-Farm Livelihood among the Bodos: A Study in Bodoland Territorial Areas of Assam, India
Authors: Swargiary Prithwiraj , Mahanta Amarjyoti
Published: September 2021

The objective of this paper is to examine the pattern and intensity of inter-generational and intra-generational changes in livelihood, taking the case of the Bodos, the largest scheduled tribe of Assam, India. The data for the study has been collected from 1161 randomly selected Bodo households in Bodoland Territorial Area Districts of Assam. The intensity of inter-generational and intra-generational livelihood changes has been measured through a rate developed for the purpose. Further, the association between the livelihood attributes has also been tested. The study finds that the intensity of intra-generational livelihood change is less than that of the inter-generational change. Livelihood change is more prominent from the farm to the non-farm sector. Though livelihood changes have taken place between the generations, the sectoral selection of livelihood by the present generation is closely associated with the livelihood of the preceding generation. Steps for infrastructure development to unfold farm and non-farm sources of income are required. Agro-based industrial units should be promoted, and required skill development initiatives should be taken so those poor households can diversify their livelihood portfolios.
Growth Optima and Supply-Chain of the Walnut Crop in India
Authors: Hassan Bakhtaver , Bhattacharjee Mahua , Wani Shabir A
Published: September 2021

This paper intends to study the Spatio-temporal growth of the walnut crop in Jammu & Kashmir, which holds a monopoly in walnut production in India. It also aims to assess the efficiency of the existing marketing channels of the walnut-crop in the region. A multi-stage random selection technique was used to collect primary data from three major walnut producing districts to identify the existing marketing channels and estimate their respective efficiencies. Compound-Annual-Growth-rate and Cuddy-Della-Valle index was used to estimate the growth of the walnut crop. Shepherd’s Marketing Efficiency Index was used to estimate the marketing efficiencies of the channels involved in the marketing of the crop. This paper found out very-high variability and slow growth in acreage, very-high variability, and high growth in production as well as in yield-per-hectare of the walnut crop.
Recombinant Protein Foliar Application Activates Systemic Acquired Resistance and Increases Tolerance against Papaya Dieback Disease
Authors: Abu-Bakar Norliza , Juri Nor Mustaiqazah , Abu-Bakar Ros Azrinawati Hana , Sohaime Mohd Zulfadli , Badrun Rafidah , Sarip Johari , Hassan Mohd Azhar , Ahmad Khairulmazmi
Published: September 2021

Similar to animals, plants possess ‘immune memory’ in response to invading pathogens that lead to enhanced defense reaction following pathogen exposure. Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) is a well-characterized type of plant immunity and is associated with coordinated expression of a set of pathogenesis-related (PR) genes and proteins also known as SAR markers. Induction of SAR in plants was shown to be initiated by group of chemicals and biological compounds known as SAR inducers that can be used for the management of important plant diseases. Elucidation and characterization of potential SAR inducers as potential elicitors that can protect papaya from the papaya dieback disease pathogen were carried out using HRPX protein, which was produced as a recombinant protein in an Escherichia coli system. Disease severity analysis in a glasshouse experiment indicated lower disease infection rates in the HRPX-treated plants than in water-treated plants. Selected SAR-associated defense gene expression was also shown to increase in treated plants, via quantitative real-time PCR analysis, confirming enhanced disease response through SAR activation. In this report, the selected recombinant protein was shown to activate the SAR mechanism in papaya for increased tolerance against papaya dieback disease, which was proven via physiological and molecular analysis.
Effects of Moringa Leaf Extract and Poultry Manure on the Growth Parameters of Sweet Maize
Authors: D.O Alubiagba , O.J Ovharhe , S.O Akparobi
Published: September 2021

This study examined the effects of moringa leaf extract (MLE) and poultry manure (PM) on the growth parameters of sweet maize. The experiment was a Randomized Complete Block Design involving nine treatments: control (no extract), 3% MLE, 6% MLE, 9% MLE, 3% MLE + 15 t/ha–1 PM, 6% MLE + 15 t/ha–1 PM, 9% MLE + 15 t/ha–1 PM, 15 t/ha–1 PM, and 30 t/ha–1 PM. Data on growth parameters including plant height, number of leaves per plant, stem girth, and leaf area were collected and analyzed. The results of the study show that there were significant differences (P = 0.05) among the treatments because plots that received 30 t/ha–1 PM performed best on plant height (193.6 and 152.8 cm) number of leaves (13.1 and 10.2), stem girth (3.75 and 3.22 cm), and leaf area (584.9 and 402.9 cm2) in both early and late season. This was followed by plots that received 9% MLE and 15 t/ha–1 PM, with values of 189.0 and 152.2 cm; 12.5 and 10.0; 3.58 3.15 cm; and 546.2 and 392.2 cm2, respectively. The study concluded that 30 t/ha–1 PM can be used to yield effective growth parameters in sweet maize and is hereby recommended to extension workers for dissemination to farmers
Challenges of Arabica Coffee Marketing: A Case Study in Kerinci Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Kaido Boris , Takashino Nina , Fuyuki Katsuhito
Published: September 2021

Indonesia has several Arabica coffee varieties that are well known in the domestic and world markets. However, marketing challenges exist for the domestic market and few cooperatives are able to export. Arabica Coffee Kerinci, a cooperative that exports, is an exception; nevertheless, marketing challenges persist for this cooperative too. Our objectives are to examine a case study of a successful cooperative that focuses on the export market and to clarify the challenges remaining for Arabica coffee marketing. Descriptive statistics were employed to capture the complexities of these marketing challenges. Semi-structured interviews using simple random sampling were conducted with the cooperative’s leader and with 51 farmers. We find that the fundamental challenges are quality inconsistency, price fluctuations, lengthy and bureaucratic export administration, absence of bank loans, and lack of government support. We recommend the following key steps: (1) focusing on improvements in producing and maintaining superior quality that meets export standards and provides capital stimulus; and (2) through greater government and industry synergy, encouraging governments to provide support to farmers and cooperatives alike. Further, other Indonesian regions could adopt Arabica coffee for rural development. This study contributes by formulating a better understanding of the major challenges facing producers of agricultural commodities.
Groundwater Assessment and its Implication for Irrigation in Selected Coastal Areas of South-Western Nigeria
Authors: J.A Adeyeye , O.D Akinyemi , F.O Akinluyi , M.O Abiola , G. O Badmus
Published: September 2021

Physicochemical and ionic characteristics of groundwater aquifers have been of tremendous importance in water applications. Groundwater in selected coastal communities (Badagry, Epe, Ikorodu, and Ilaje/ese-odo) of south-western Nigeria was assessed for domestic and irrigation suitability. One hundred and ninety-two (192) groundwater samples were obtained and analyzed for chemical composition and major ionic ratio over a period of four seasons using standard methods. Results indicated abundance of ions in the order HCO3– > Cl–> SO42– for anions, and K+ > Na+ > Ca2+> Mg2+ for cations. Piper's diagram revealed calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) as the dominant cations, while sulphate and chloride were the dominant anions with a mixture of two major groundwater types: Ca–Cl water and mixed Ca–Mg–Cl. The presence of Ca–Cl facies water type suggests potential ion exchange (Na2+ with Ca2+) reaction in these coastal aquifers. Cation exchangeable values (CEV), and molar ratios of Mg/Ca, HCO3/Cl, and Na/Cl, showed high values (>1) across all locations indicating the occurrence of saline water ingression in groundwater samples, especially during the dry spell. The increasing K+, Na+, and Cl– characteristics of the groundwater and calculated ionic indices values indicated the influence of seawater intrusion. However, total hardness values showed that the samples were very soft in nature. Irrigation water quality suitability, as indicated by sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), permeability index (PI), and percentage sodium (PS) varied with seasons and location, showing that water will cause soil deterioration and poor crop performance if intensively used for irrigation without proper precautions.
Factors Influencing Smallholder Farmers Mechanization Decisions in Nigeria: The Case of Tractor Use in the Fourth Industrial Revolution ERA
Authors: Onomu Achoja Roland , Aliber Michael
Published: September 2021

Tractorization is crucial in the agricultural transformation of societies with either large farm size or challenged by a severe labor shortage. However, most smallholder farmers still lag in its use, making it necessary to investigate current tractor use by smallholders. This study investigated the factors that influence smallholder farmers’ decision to use tractors in the Delta and Benue States of Nigeria. Specifically, it determined the current level of mechanization (tractor use) in the farming system, estimated the contributions of tractor use among smallholder farmers, and determined the factors influencing smallholder farmers’ tractor use decisions in the study area. Multistage sampling techniques were used to collect data from 280 respondents. Descriptive statistics, a logistic model and odds ratio (OR) constituted the analytical framework. The results showed that poor tractor use still exists among smallholder farmers, with as much as 72% of farmers not using tractor in this modern era. The study revealed that the mean income of tractor users was twice as high as that of non-tractor users. The OR result revealed that educational status, household labor, farming experience, alternative occupation, and farm area under cultivation influenced the decision of the smallholder to use tractor services. It would seem that lack of utilizing the benefits of tractorization is a crucial constraint that calls attention to the need for a holistic campaign among the farming population. The practical applications of family labor are likely to remain high.
Age-Dependent Histomorphometrical Values of the Sciatic Nerve Regeneration in Rats after Cutting and Microsurgical Suturing
Authors: Shchudlo N. A. , Varsegova T. N. , Shchudlo M. M.
Published: September 2021

The effect of ageing on the morphofunctional features of nerves and the process of their posttraumatic regeneration has been studied in details. However, it is not known, whether there are differences of the neuroregeneration potential in the young, adult and mature experimental animals.The aim of the study was to evaluate histomorphometrical parameters of the rat sciatic nerve regeneration after cutting and microsurgical suturing depending on their age.Materials and Methods. The study included 15 white laboratory Wistar rats aged 5–6 (young), 8–10 (adult) and 12 months (mature). The sciatic nerve was transected at the level of the middle third of the thigh with microsurgical scissors and sutured with six epi-perineural stitches in the animals. In 4 months the animals were euthanized. Sections of sciatic nerves distal to the levels of sutures were put into araldite, semi-thin slices (0.5–1.0 mkm) were obtained for histomorphometric analysis. Thirteen intact animals were selected as control. Statistical processing was performed using nonparametric methods.Results. The numerical density of endoneural vessels in nerves of operated rats was higher than that in the intact ones, but in mature animals it was significantly lower than in young and adult ones (p<0.001). The numerical density of endoneural cells nuclei in young experimental animals did not differ from that of the intact ones, but in animals from the adult and mature groups it was more than four times higher than in animals from the young group (p<0.001). The numerical density of regenerating myelinated nerve fibers in animals of the young and adult groups did not differ from that of the intact nerve, in animals of the mature group it increased in 2.5 times (p<0.001). The numerical density of degenerating myelinated fibers in the operated animals of experimental groups was higher than in the intact group (two times, six times and 11 times higher, respectively). The diameter distribution of the regenerating myelinated fibers in animals of all groups differed from that of the intact control animals.Conclusions. The data obtained demonstrate a significant decrease in the regenerative potential of Schwann cells and neurons in adult and mature animals compared with the young ones.
A Cross-Sectional Study for Evaluation of KRAS and BRAF Mutations by Reverse Dot Blot, PCR-RFLP, and Allele-Specific PCR Methods Among Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sheikhsofla Fatemeh , Poopak Behzad , Firuzyar Sajjad , Roudbari Fatemeh , Ghadiany Mojtaba
Published: September 2021

Background: KRAS and BRAF genes are the biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer (CRC) which play prognostic and predictive roles in CRC treatment. Nowadays, the selection of rapid and available methods for studying KRAS and BRAF mutations in anti-EGFR therapy of patients suffering from CRC plays a significant role. In this study, the mutations of these two oncogenes were evaluated by different methods.
Methods: This study was performed on 50 Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer. After DNA extraction, KRAS and BRAF gene mutations were evaluated using reverse dot blot, and results were compared with PCR-RFLP and allele-specific PCR for KRAS and BRAF mutations, respectively.
Results: KRAS gene mutations were detected in 42% of patients, of which 30% were in codon 12 region, and 12% in codon 13. The most frequent mutations of KRAS were related to G12D  and 10% of patients had BRAF mutated genes. The type of KRAS gene mutations could be evaluated by reverse dot blot method. In general, the results of PCR-RFLP and allele-specific PCR were similar to the findings by reverse dot blot method. 
Conclusion: These findings suggest that PCR-RFLP and allele-specific PCR methods are suitable for screening the presence of the mutations in KRAS and BRAF oncogenes. In fact, another method with more sensitivity is needed for a more accurate assessment to determine the type of mutations. Due to higher speed of detection, reduced Turnaround Time (TAT), and possible role of some KRAS point mutations in overall survival, reverse dot blot analysis seems to be an optimal method.
Molecular Mechanisms of Anti-Inflammatory Activities of the Extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Thymus vulgaris
Authors: Francis Olaoye Ige , Joseph Oso Babatunde , Aberuagba Adepeju
Published: September 2021

Background: A large body of literature suggests that the extracts of Ocimum gratissimum (O. gratissimum) and Thymus vulgaris (T. vulgaris) play protective roles against various inflammatory disorders. However, the possible mechanism of action with reference to the interactions of their respective phytochemical compositions with pro-inflammatory mediators as the indication of their therapeutic effects is less clear. Therefore, the immunomodulatory properties of O. gratissimum and T. vulgaris were investigated in this study.
Methods: The in vitro lipoxygenase inhibitory potentials of methanolic extracts of the selected plants were assessed through colorimetric analysis. The pharmacokinetics of some identified compounds in the botanicals were investigated via the Swiss ADME server while the molecular interactions of the compounds with lipoxygenase, IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, and CCL-2 were performed through molecular docking.
Results: The assessment of the lipoxygenase inhibition revealed the extracts could possess anti-inflammatory agents. The pharmacokinetic results of some selected compounds identified in the botanicals showed moderate toxic effects compared to indomethacin. The molecular docking study substantiated the report of the in vitro analysis as indicated in the binding score of all the selected compounds compared to indomethacin.
Conclusion: The phytochemical components of the extracts of O. gratissimum and T. vulgaris could be effective as anti-inflammatory agents that could be explored in preventing disorders associated with excessive activities of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Construction and Evaluation of Short Hairpin RNAs for Knockdown of Metadherin mRNA
Authors: Zare Farahnaz , Sharifzadeh Sedigheh , Behzad-Behbahani Abbas , Rafiei Dehbidi Gholamreza , Yousefi Zahra , Ranjbaran Reza , Seyyedi Noorossadat
Published: September 2021

Background: Short hairpin RNA (shRNA) has proven to be a powerful tool to study genes’ function through RNA interference mechanism. Three different methods have been used in previous studies to produce shRNA expression vectors including oligonucleotide-based cloning, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based cloning, and primer extension PCR approaches. The aim of this study was designing a reliable and simple method according to the primer extension strategy for constructing four shRNA vectors in order to target different regions of Metadherin (MTDH) mRNA in human leukemic cell line Jurkat.
Methods: Oligonucleotides for construction of four shRNA vectors were designed, synthesized and fused to U6 promoter. Each U6-shRNA cassette was cloned into a pGFP-V-RS vector. MTDH shRNAs were transfected into the Jurkat cell line by using the electroporation method. The ability of shRNAs to knock down MTDH mRNA was analyzed through qRT-PCR. Apoptosis assay was used to evaluate the effect of down regulation of MTDH expression on cell integrity.
Results: A significant reduction (about 80%) in the expression levels of MTDH mRNA and an increase in the percentages of apoptotic cells (about 20%) were observed in the test group in comparison with control.
Conclusion: MTDH shRNA constructs effectively inhibited gene expression. However, simplicity and inexpensiveness of the method were additional advantages for its application.