bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sea Water Intrusion in a Coastal Aquifer: A Case Study for the Area Between Seeb and Suwaiq, Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Al Barwani Ahmed , Helmi Tariq
Published: June 2017

The Batinah Coastal plain, located between the Hajar mountains and the sea, from Muscat to the UAE border, is a favorable region for groundwater occurrence in Oman and the main source of fresh water in this coastal area. The coastal parts of the Batinah plain, particularly Barka and Suwaiq, have suffered from groundwater deterioration over the past 20 years. This paper reviews the monitoring activities of groundwater electrical conductivity in the Batinah coastal plain between Seeb and Suwaiq over the period 1984 to 2005, an area of approximately 394 km2. GIS and Auto-Cad techniques were applied to illustrate different salinity zones as the wells coordinates and their field EC were digitized on maps with contours. Zones of salinity ranges are identified and their areas were computed and compared to the total catchment area of each wadi. All samples were collected from the same upper gravel layer, ranging in depth 20-100 meters. There has been a substantial deterioration in water quality as indicated by a 7% reduction in areas of water suitable for agriculture use (2.000 – 6.000 μS/cm), reflecting a loss of 2,714 hectares of irrigated land. Also, a saline interface is reported 12 km inland at Wadi al Taww, Barka area, an indication of aquifer over-exploitation. It is therefore critical that monitoring of water quality and quantity is continued. It is recommended to improve implementation of the standard water resources management solutions to coastal aquifer saline contamination. Cooperation of different organizations and water users is essential to conserve these precious water resources.
Profitability Analysis of Selected Farms in the Batinah Region of Oman
Authors: Zekri Slim , Al Said Fahad A. , Khan Iqrar A.
Published: June 2017

The agricultural sector of Oman represents less than 2% of the total GDP and uses 88% of the fresh water. Several decision makers are questioning whether the agricultural activity in the Sultanate of Oman can be sustained and if so what type of crops should be encouraged. More than 53% of the agricultural cropped area is situated in the Batinah coastal area where farming is exclusively based on groundwater pumping. A sample of 49 market-oriented farms from the Batinah region was surveyed during 2006. Four types of farms were considered. Results showed that the most profitable farms are mixing fodder crops and vegetables with a net margin of 1,412 RO/ha/year. The less profitable farms are based on tree crops and vegetables with a net margin of 847 RO/ha/year. For vegetables the most profitable crop is tomato with an average net margin of 2,580 RO/ha/year with a standard deviation of 2,043 RO/ha/year and the least profitable crop is cabbage with 113 RO/ha/ year with a standard deviation of 182 RO/ha/year. The net margin of crops grown under drip irrigation is higher than that for crops under furrow irrigation, with a difference of 548 RO/ha/year. Farms equipped with such modern irrigation systems tend to irrigate almost the same area in winter as in summer, while farms under furrow irrigation crop less than one percent of their cropped area during summer compared to winter. Consequently and contrary to expectations, modern irrigation systems tend to increase, rather than reduce, groundwater pumping given the financial incentives for farmers to grow summer vegetables instead of only winter vegetables. Even so, the net water use efficiency is greater for vegetable production under drip irrigation than it is for fodder production. The figures show that, on average, farming in the Batinah is financially profitable for the types of farm considered in this study. However, profitability varies widely between different farms and crops. The reasons for these differences are technical, as observed in the big differences in yield among crops, and economic because the prices received by farmers differ significantly.
Evaluation of Potato Cultivars Grown in Saudi Arabia by Morphological Characters and RAPD Markers
Authors: Al-Moshileh Abd-Rahman Mohamed M. , El-Shinawy Mohamed Zaky , Motawei Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: June 2017

Genetic diversity of 10 potato cultivars was investigated at the DNA level with the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) procedure and at the phenotypic level using morphological characters. The results indicated that there were considerable variations among the different studied cultivars. Cultivars Victoria, Frizia and Safaren had the highest chlorophyll content compared to the other cultivars in both seasons. The largest leaf area and leaf dry weight were measured in cultivar Safaren and Mondial in both seasons. Cultivars Aboulx and Mondia produced the highest tuber yield in both seasons. On the other hand, cultivars Victoria and Edward were characterized by their considerably lower yield than other studied cultivars. Specific gravity varied considerably among the different potato cultivars. Thirteen random decamer primers were used to amplify DNA via the polymerase chain reaction and 75 RAPDs were generated. The RAPD profiles obtained were successfully used to differentiate potato cultivars. Based on the pair-wise comparison of amplification products, genetic similarity was estimated. The genetic similarity among all potato cultivars ranged from 50 to 92 %. Cultivars Victoria and Etfadoal presented the least similarity (0.50) while cultivars Mondial and Citrix had the greatest similarity (0.92). Etfadoal cultivar displayed the greatest genetic diversity of all cultivars. A dendrogram was constructed using UPGMA analysis. On the basis of this analysis, the cultivars were grouped into three clusters. The polymorphism detected suggests that RAPD markers are reliable for identification of potato cultivars and could be exploited in genetic mapping of populations to tag economically important traits.
Predicting the Distribution and Abundance of Emperor Fishes (Lethrinus spp.) in the Arabian Sea Using Two-Stage Generalized Additive Models and a Geographic Information System
Authors: Al-Kharusi Lubnah H.
Published: June 2017

The distribution and abundance of emperor fishes (Lethrinidae) along the Arabian Sea  coast of Oman were analysed from commercial catch-per-unit-effort data for the periods 1996–2004 and 2005,  respectively. Two-stage generalized additive models (GAM) were used to detect trends in abundance  relative to environmental variables. The GAM that included month (positive in August and October),  sea surface temperature (SST; positive at 25–27˚C) and longitude (positive between 57°50’ E–58°50’  E) explained the highly variable distribution and abundance patterns best. ArcGIS-9 was used as an  auxiliary to visualize seasonal trends that could not be seen from the statistical GAM analysis. From the spatial grids, it appeared that abundance increased with warmer SST encountered in  August/September to January but was lower during the SW monsoon in June–August when the SST  decreased below 25°C. The results emanating from the analysis of the 2005 data confirmed those from  the original 1996–2004 data, suggesting that predictions from the original models were relatively  robust. The synthesis of methods used in this study is a major step towards developing  statistically robust and spatially explicit methods for predicting fisheries performance.
Revenue Determinants for Abu-Dhabi Fishermen and Assessment of Input Allocative Efficiency
Authors: Sherif Sherin A. , Gheblawi Mohamed S.
Published: June 2017

This study examined the fishing industry in Abu Dhabi, the main fish-producing Emirate in the UAE, from the fishermen’s point of view. Marginal analysis was used to identify the most prominent fishing-revenue determinants along with assessing the allocative (price) efficiency of inputs used. A log-log total value product (TVP) function was estimated for a representative cross-section random sample of 131 Abu-Dhabi fishermen. This revealed that (1) labor, fishing effort, boat capacity, boat boarding expenses, and expenditures on oil and lubricants are the five main determinants of total revenue for the individual fishermen in Abu Dhabi; (2) boat-purchase price constituted a huge investment cost to fishermen distributed over the lifetime of the boat; although only one-third of fishermen acquire loans for this purpose; (3) the only type of records fishermen keep were those pertinent to monthly revenues; and (4) price efficiency is found not to be achieved for any of the five prominent inputs that have great impact on total fishermen’s revenues, as three inputs were found to be under-utilized in varying degrees, whereas two were found to be significantly over-utilized.
Effect of Transportation and Low Voltage Electrical Stimulation on Meat Quality Characteristics of Omani Sheep
Authors: Kadim Isam T. , Mahgoub Osman , Al-Marzooqi Waleed , Khalaf Samera
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of road transportation during the hot season (36 oC) and low voltage electrical stimulation on meat quality characteristics of Omani sheep. Twenty intact male sheep (1-year old) were divided into two equal groups: 3 hrs transported or non-transported. The transported group was transferred to the slaughterhouse the day of slaughter in an open truck covering a distance of approximately 300 km. The non-transported group was kept in a lairage of a commercial slaughterhouse with ad libitum feed and water for 3 days prior to slaughter. Blood samples were collected from the animals before loading and prior to slaughter in order to assess their physiological response to stress in terms of hormonal levels. Fifty percent of the carcasses from each group were randomly assigned to low voltage (90 V) at 20 min postmortem. Muscle ultimate pH, expressed juice, cooking loss percentage, WB-shear force value, sarcomere length, myofibrillar fragmentation index and colour L*, a*, b* were measured on samples from Longissimus dorsi muscles collected 24 hrs postmortem at 2-4 oC. The transported sheep had significantly (P<0.05) higher cortisol adrenaline, nor-adrenaline, and dopamine levels than the non-transported group. Muscles from electrically-stimulated carcasses had significantly (P<0.05) lower pH values, longer sarcomere length, lower shear force value, higher expressed juice, myofibrillar fragmentation index and L* values than those from non-stimulated ones. Transportation significantly influenced meat quality characteristics of the Longissimus dorsi muscle. Muscle ultimate pH and shear force values were significantly higher, while CIE L*, a*, b*, expressed juice and cooking loss were lower in transported than non-transported sheep. This study indicated that pre-slaughter transportation at high ambient temperatures can cause noticeable changes in muscle physiology in sheep. Nevertheless, meat quality of transported sheep can be improved by electrical stimulation post-slaughter.
Old Ways in a Changing Space: The Issue of Camel Pastoralism in Dhofar
Authors: Tigani ElMahi Ali
Published: June 2017

In the Arabian Peninsula, the Dhofar region is rich in camels. This national wealth has always been administered by traditional nomadic pastoral management, which must have evolved in Oman with the introduction of camels as domesticates in prehistoric times. In this region, camels have always depended on the free grazing system which is governed by tribal territoriality. Today, Dhofar is experiencing an extensive process of development. Land value has increased immensely, to the extent that it cannot be used for camel pastoralism. Furthermore, traditional camel management has always been directed to meet requirements of a subsistence economy. It has never managed to convert to the organization of political economy. This paper intends to raise the alarm that national wealth is endangered by certain challenges. The paper proposes certain ideas that might assist in safeguarding and investing in a national asset.
Relationship Between Body Composition and Performance of Local Turkey
Authors: Khuleel Rafh Mohammed Taher
Published: June 2017

This study examined the relationship between carcass composition and performance traits of local turkey fed starter diet (30.2% protein, 2950 kcal/kg ME). At 8 week of age, male and female chicks were separated and reared in individual cages until 16 weeks of age. At the end of the experiment, the birds were slaughtered and carcasses were analyzed for chemical composition to predict chemical composition (moisture, ash, protein and fat) from performance traits such as initial body weight (g) at 8wk, final live body weight (g) at 16wk, daily weight gain (g), daily feed intake (g), feed conversion ratio, daily protein intake (g), protein conversion ratio, dressing-out percentage. There were significant correlations between moisture, protein and fat; between ash, protein, fat and dressing-out percentage; between protein, fat and dressing-out percentage; between fat, moisture, ash, protein, live body weight, feed conversion ratio, protein conversion ratio and dressing-out percentage. Although the coefficient of correlation (R2) for prediction equations was not high, the moisture content equation depends on feed conversion ratio while for ash, protein and fat depends on dressing-out percentage.
A Serological Study on Foot and Mouth Disease in Cattle from the Dhofar Governorate of Oman
Authors: Al-Busaidi Rashid M. , Al-Jassasi Ahmed , Johnson Eugene H.
Published: June 2017

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that has a significant impact on the economy and livestock productivity of affected countries. Based on unpublished reports, serotype O has been incriminated as the sole serotype present in Oman. The present study was conducted in the Dhofar region of the Sultanate of Oman between August 2003 and March 2004 with the objective of determining the seroprevalence against FMDV in Dhofari cattle. Sera samples were collected from 395 cattle in 19 different herds. Sera underwent screening using a Liquid Phase Blocking ELISA to determine the antibody response to the serotypes O, A, C, Asia 1, Sat1, Sat 2, and Sat 3. The overall seroprevalence of FMD was 52.1% (n=206). Of the seropositive animals, 77.7% were positive for type O and 22.3% for type A. There was no significant variation in seroprevalence among different sex and age groups; however, there was a tendency towards a higher incidence of seropositive in older animals. This study confirmed that FMDV is widespread in the Dhofar region. Furthermore, it is the first report of serotype A and an animal testing seropositive for O and A in the Sultanate of Oman.
Economic Analysis Determining the Optimal Replanting Age of Date Palm
Authors: Kotagama Hemesiri B. , Al-Alawi Amani Juma T. , Boughanmi Houcine , Zekri Slim , Mbaga Msafiri , Jayasuriya Hemanatha
Published: June 2017

Two alternative analytical models were used to estimate the economically optimal age of replanting date palm, namely; Comparison of Equivalent Annual Net Revenue (CEAN) and Multi-Period Linear Programming Model (MPLP). Solution procedures of both models are based on the theory of optimal replacement of capital assets. Data on date palm age-yield relationship and other socioeconomic variables were gleaned through a farm survey of 34 large commercial farms, in Izki, Bahla, and Al-Hamra wilayats in the Al- Dakhilya governorate of the Sultanate of Oman. The study estimated the optimal age of replanting date palms as 50-55 years. Both models, CEAN and MPLP gave consistent estimates. The optimal age to replant date palms was sensitive only to changes in the interest rates. Low interest rates shortened the optimal age of date palm replanting. Changes in date price, yield and variable production costs did not change the optimal age of replanting date palms. The incremental revenue that could be accrued to the Sultanate of Oman through replanting date palms was estimated as 7 million OR/ year.
Evaluation of Insecticides and Agril Polyester Cover against Whitefly (Bemisia Tabaci Gennadius) in Tomato Crops
Authors: Azam K.M. , Zouba A. , Razvi S.A. , AI-Raeesi A.A.
Published: June 2017

Field experiments were conducted on tomato crops over a two year period to evaluate the efficacy of six insecticides, viz., triazophos, phosphamidon, dimethoate, buprofezin and Aflix (endosulfan + dimethoate) each at 0.05% and Repelin (plant insecticide) at 1% concentration along With a cultural treatment by covering the plants with Agril (a polyester material ) for the control of whitefly, Bemisia tabaci. The insecticides were applied eight times at weekly interval immediately after transplantation. The whitefly eggs,  nymphal population counts and the per cent incidence of tomato leaf curl virus (TLCV) were recorded every week for eight weeks in all the treatments including untreated control. The incidence of whitefly was more severe in the second year (i.e, 1992-93) as compared to the previous season. Among the various treatments, the Agril cover, a newly introduced cultural practice, recorded the least incidence of whitefly and of TLCV. The average of counts of eggs were 0.0 and 5.47 and of nymphs 0.54 and 0.58 per 10 leaflets and TLCV were 4.32% and 4.76% in Agril cover treatment during the first and second year, respectively. Among the insecticides tested only Aflix recorded less incidence of the pest, being 3.46 and 30.4 eggs per 10 leaflets and 0.94 and 5.34 nymphs per 10 leaflets during the two years of study, respectively. The other treatments were less effective in reducing pest and disease incidence. The crop under Agril-cover recorded the maximum yield of 34.57 and 26.15 t/ha of tomatoes as compared to 16.48 and 10.82 t/ha in control during the first and second year, respectively.
Fouling and its next generation management: a perspective
Authors: Rittschof Daniel , Chai Christina , Teo Serena Lay Ming , Maki James S.
Published: June 2017

The last 50 years of fouling research and management taught us that indiscriminate use of toxic approaches damages ecosystem services of estuaries and oceans critical to man’s existence. Next generation environmentally benign management requires knowledge of the fouling process and an understanding of the consequences of different management options. An intermediate step may be additives that fit with existing business models and distribution systems, but that carry a much reduced environmental footprint. Subsequently, the evolution of a next generation hull fouling management system with limited toxicity easy clean surfaces should replace or augment the existing commercial easy-release coatings. These new technologies require new business models and infrastructure. The path for a new commercial hull coating, from a concept to the actual product takes 25 to 35 years to complete. Major challenges include fitting in with existing business models and systems and meeting regulations. Leveraging on our experience in the development of additives as a case example, we offer a perspective on what the new fouling management systems might involve and discuss issues to be addressed as limited toxicity easy-clean coatings gain market share. As existing business cannot easily adapt to a different business model, evolution of new management solutions will require resources, a necessary long term perspective, and close working relationships between business and science to enable products in the global market.
Protein resources and aquafeed development in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Goddard Stephen , Ibrahim Fahad Saleh
Published: June 2017

The continued growth of intensive aquaculture is dependent on the development of sustainable protein sources to replace conventional fish meals in aquafeeds. Practical alternatives are plant-derived protein, protein from micro-organisms and protein from under-utilized marine resources. The challenges are to find alternative ingredients with high protein, suitable amino acid content, high palatability and absence of anti-nutritional factors. There is considerable biotechnology-based research in this area, including genetic modification of plant-based proteins, use of probiotics to enhance digestibility and the renewed application of fermentation technologies to produce single cell proteins. Research in Oman is focused on the utilization of marine protein resources. Fisheries by-catch and processing waste have been evaluated as liquid hydrolysates and as meals for inclusion in aquafeeds and new research is planned on the utilization of meso-pelagic fish (myctophids), which occur in abundance in the Arabian Sea and the Sea of Oman. Initial studies have been conducted on the biochemical composition of the lantern fish, Benthosema pterotum, which revealed favorable protein, amino acid and long-chain PUFA content. Potential limiting factors were high levels of saturated lipids and the heavy metals arsenic and cadmium. These results will be discussed within a general review of marine resources and aquafeed development in Oman.
Genetic and environmental factors affecting 305-day mature equivalent milk yield of Holstein Friesian cows in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: ElBoshra Mohamed ElNour , Eisa Ali Tagelsir , Hassabo Ali Ahmed
Published: June 2017

The main objective of this research was determining the effect of sire of cow, year and season of freshening, lactation number, and their different interactions on 305-day mature equivalent (ME) milk yield of Holstein Friesian cows in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It also aimed to estimate sire and error variance and heritability of 305-day ME milk yield. The data was collected from AL Salamat Dairy Farm in Al Ain. The average size of the herd was 1000 animals during the experimental period. The Dairy Comp 305 computer program was used for compiling the data. The data under the study covered the years 2004 to 2007. The climatic temperature during the summer (April to September) varied from moderate to very hot. The winter (October to March) had lower temperature and higher relative humidity than the summer. All the effects were fixed except for random sire and residual error term. The overall least-square mean of the 305-day ME milk yield was 11060Å}355 kg/305 days. The data showed a significant effect of sire of cow (p≤0.001), year of freshening (p≤0.001), lactation number (p≤0.01), year x season of freshening (p≤0.01), and year of freshening x lactation number (p≤0.001) on milk yield. However, the effect of season of freshening showed non significant effect. No significant seasonal differences were found in 2004. However, in the year 2005 and 2006, the summer fresheners had significantly higher yield than those of the winter season. The 305-day ME pertaining to summer vs. winter were 11691Å}400 kg vs. 11483Å}410 kg and 11522Å}369 kg vs. 11041Å}374 kg for the year 2005 and 2006, respectively. However, the reverse was true in 2007 with the fresheners during summer that have lower 305-day ME (10286Å}372kg) than those freshening during winter (10672Å}388 kg). The differences among the three lactations were relatively high in 2004 (9837 to 12116 kg), compared to 2005 - 2006 (11267 to 11747 kg) and 2007 (9853 to 11355 kg). The heritability of 305-day ME was 0.31 indicating that a significant response to selection would be achieved through a well-designed progeny testing and cow evaluation program.
Diseases of the Date Palm: Present Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Djerbi M.
Published: June 2017

While date palm is affected by many diseases, bayoud remains the most serious one. It is caused by a soil born pathogen, Fusarium oxyspurum f .sp. albedinis. It has affected practically all Moroccan palm groves as well as those of western and central Algerian sahara, where it has respectively killed more than 12 million in Morocco and three million in Algeria and has accelerated the desertification phenomenon. External and internal symptoms as well as identification methods of F.o. f. sp. albedinis by pathogenicity test, cultural characteristics, and vegetative compatibility were reviewed and discussed. Small distance contamination occurs by root contact between diseased trees and healthy ones, and at large distances through the movement of contaminated planting material (offshoots, symptomless carriers) and infested soil and irrigation water. Prophylactic measures as well as chemical, cultural, biological and genetic controls were reviewed. It appears that the most productive mean lies in research into resistant cultivars. Hundreds of genotypes have been selected and introduced for micro-propagation and planted in infested areas to rehabilitate date palm oasis ravaged by bayoud. Among other date palm diseases Khamedj (Mauginiella scaettae), fruit rot (due to numerous fungi), Black scorch (Thielaviopsis paradoxa), Belaat (Phytophtora sp.) are of minor importance and of sporadic occurrence. However, they become serious and cause heavy losses under favorable conditions and when proper sanitation is not applied. Two serious and fatal diseases of unknown causes (AI Wijam and the Brittle leaf disease) as well as many other diseases and physiological disorders of minor importance were also reviewed.
Demand Analysis of Selected Fruits and Vegetables in Oman
Authors: Omezzine A. , Chomo G.V. , AI-Jabri O.
Published: June 2017

Consumer behavior and prospective changes in demand of food product have a significant impact on production and distribution decisions. Consumer responsiveness to changes in prices, income and other demand determinants is very important to production and market decision-makers. The present study estimates demand responses for selected fruits and vegetables in Oman using consumer aggregated national data. The main objective is to generate information needed for making public as well as private decisions. Results indicate that most fruit and vegetable consumers respond to price, and income changes in the expected manner. Responses are different from one commodity to another depending on its nature and importance in the consumer's diet habits. In a few cases income is not a significant determinant of the demand. Moreover, many fruits and vegetables have shown a relationship of substitution and complementary consistent with Omani diet. These results are useful in farmers and distributers to allow them to adjust their production and marketing services according to the consumer’s response.
Radiation Interception and Utilization by Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) at Different Sowing Dates and Plant Populations
Authors: Hussain A. , Nawaz M. , Chaudhry F. M.
Published: June 2017

Growth and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. )in response to sowing date and plant population were analyzed in terms of interception and utilization of photo synthetically active radiation (PAR). The amount of PAR intercepted by each treatment was estimated from the measured leaf area index. The relationship between total dry matter, seed yield and accumulated intercepted PAR was linear. The average efficiency of radiation utilization for total dry matter was 1.56 g-MJ-1 during the seasons. Yield differences between treatments were due to the amount of PAR. its efficiency of utilization or both. Early sowing increased the amount of intercepted PAR (31-33%) by enhancing the size of the canopy early in the season. The radiation utilization efficiency of seed yield was higher for late sown crops compared to early sown crops- However, the higher efficiency of utilization in late sowing was insufficient to compensate for the significantly lower amounts of intercepted PAR. Higher plant populations increased both the total dry matter and the seed yield due to higher radiation interception and utilization.
Biochemical Disturbances Associated With Haemonchosis in Sheep
Authors: Iqbal Z. , Hayat C. S. , Akhtar M. , Rasool G.
Published: June 2017

The serum concentrations of aspartate amino transferase(AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT). phosphorus, urea and potassium increased in infected animals. The increased AST and ALT levels suggested pathology of the skeletal muscle and hepatic parenchyma due to haemorrhagic gastritis and fatty degeneration of the liver. An increase in the serum phosphorus levels in infected animals may be attributed to a reciprocal relationship with serum calcium and carbohydrate utilization. An increase in urea and potassium concentrations might be due to dehydration and increased breakdown of proteins, and acidosis as a result of excessive fluid loss and increased catabolism of fat, protein and carbohydrate. The serum concentrations of cholesterol, copper, total protein, zinc, calcium, glucose, chloride, iron and magnesium decreased in infected animals. The decrease in the serum concentrations of these substances was attributed to the heavy blood loss and gastro-intestinal disturbances caused by haemonchosis leading to poor absorption and/or metabolism of these nutrients. It is recommended that in addition to an anthelmintic treatment, infected animals should be provided with essential micro/macro-elements and rehydration salts as supportive therapy.
Pedo-Chemical Studies on Saline Playas in the Arabian Shelf
Authors: AI-Sewailem M.S. , AI-Mashhady A.S. , AI-Sheikh A.A. , Sheta A.S. , Sallam A. Sh.
Published: June 2017

This research was undertaken to study the pedo-chemical characteristics of selected playas (sabkhahs) in the Arabian Shelf. Results indicated that most of the sabkhahs are flat to almost flat having salt crusts with variable thickness. Profiles representing the sabkhah surface are extremely saline compared with that of the surrounding landscapes. The dominant soluble salts are Cl- and SO4(2-) of Na+ followed by Ca2 + or Mg2+. The compositions of the coastal sabkhahs profile layers are closely related to the Gulf water composition while the inland playas are more associated with local conditions. This was continued from the similarity in salt levels, ion molar ratios and relatively high correlation coefficients between the electrical conductivity of soluble salts (EC) and either soluble B3+ (r2 =0.80) or soluble Mg2 (r2=0.60) in coastal compared with that of the inland sabkhahs (r2=0.17) and (r2 =O.37), respectively. The main pedological process affecting the formation of coastal sabkhahs is the upward movement of the water table which is rich in sales originating from the Gulf waters either directly or through wind action. Leaching, accumulation of sediments and evaporative concentrations of the solutes are the processes prevailing in the inland sabkhahs. Salt crusts are dominated by Cl-and SO4(2-) of Na+ , Mg2+ and Ca2+ salts while K+ salts are relatively low. X-ray diffraction patterns confirm the presence of halite, gypsum and carbonate minerals. Epsomite and bloedtte minerals were identified in both coastal and inland sabkhahs. Specific minerals and relative abundance was quite variable between the salt cmsts due to the characteristic conditions of each sabkhah. The major differences between the inland and coastal sablthahs are related to the source, composition and depth of the water table and consequently the composition and mineralogy of the surface salt crusts.
Performance of Lactating Dairy Cows Fed Dried Sardines
Authors: AI-Abri A.S. , Lu C.D. , Early R.J. , Srikandakumar A. , Mahgoub O. , Ritche A. , Annamalai K.
Published: June 2017

To utilize locally available feed resources with livestock production in hot climates, dried sardines were incorporated into diets for lactating dairy cows. Fourteen Holstein and 13 Australian Milk Zebu multiparous cows were used in a 70-day continuous feeding experiment. lsonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets containing either soybean meal or dried sardines (supplied 40% of dietary crude protein) were fed ad - libitum. Comparisons between diets were made during the 7-week experimental period. The experiment was conducted as a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatment, with diet and breed as main factors. Ruminal pH, ammonia N, total and individual volatile fatty acids concentrations were not altered by the feeding of dried sardines. Intakes of dry matter, energy, crude protein, and acid detergent fiber were lower (P<0.05) in both breeds of cows fed dried sardines. Intakes of ether extract and ash were higher (P<0.05) in cows fed dried sardines. Although it was not statistically significant, milk production was higher (P>0.05) in Holstein cows fed dried sardines than those fed the control diet (16.2 vs 15.1 kg/d). Feeding of dried sardines did not affect milk composition and compositional yields. Milk production was higher (P<0.01) in Holstein than Australian Milk Zebu cows. Effect of diet and breed interaction on milk production was significant (P<0.01 ). Potential of feeding marine proteins may be higher for higher milk producers (Holstein) than lower producers (Australian Milk Zebu). Reproduction parameters, body condition scores, and heat-stress associated parameters were not affected by the feeding of dried sardines. This study suggests that dried sardines could be incorporated into diets of lactating dairy cows without affecting milk production.
Factors Regulating In Vitro Germination of Date Palm Pollen Grams After Storage
Authors: El Mardi M.O. , AI-Kharousi L. , AI-Mantheri O.S.
Published: June 2017

Dried pollen grains of three date palm (male) cultivars grown in Oman were stored either in a freezer (-18°C), a refrigerator (4 to 5°C), or at room temperature (23 to 25°C) for 6 or 12 months. The three cultivars include Khori, Medjahdil, and Bahlani. Germination percentage was determined after 6 hours incubation in aerated and non- aerated liquid media. The results showed that date palm pollen was better adapted to refrigerator storage than freezing for all three cultivars, while room temperature storage significantly reduced pollen germination. Aeration was found to enhance germination of refrigerator- and freezer-stored pollen, but decreased that of pollen stored at room temperature for 6 months. The results also indicated that refrigeration might have caused the inactivation of pollen germination. The latter could either be overcome by aeration or reversed if pollen is refrigerated for a longer period. Room temperature storage directly reduced viability and did not induce temporary inactivation of pollen.
Evaluation of Hormonal Treatment with Sponges and PMSG on Reproductive Performance and Profitability of Awassi Sheep Reared under Semi-Intensive Management Systems
Authors: Al-Karablieh E.K. , Abdelrahman M.M.
Published: June 2017

Intravaginal progesterone impregnated sponges and PMSG hormonal injection is a new herding practice for sheep introduced to farmers in order to synchronize estrous and superovulation to increase lambing rate, twinning rate, and to synchronize lambing. Sheep flocks, raised under a semi-intensive system, were selected and divided into two groups; control and treated (sponge and PMSG). The study was repeated for seven breeding seasons to evaluate the reproductive performance and profitability of this practice. Treated groups showed a significant increase (P < 0.001) in fertility, lambing, twinning, and prolificacy rates compared to controls. The average fertility for treated groups was 84.8% and whereas for controls, it was 62.7%. Lambing rate increased from 64.9% to 111.0% and twinning rate increased from 3.13% to 29.9% as a result of treatment. Partial budget analysis was used to determine the profitability of this practice. The incremental net return due to hormone treatment was 8.91 JD/ewe.
Pathogenic Variation in Rhynchosporium secalis on Barley in Ethiopia
Authors: Meles K. , Hulluka M. , Deadman M.L.
Published: June 2017

This paper presents the first detailed study on pathogenic variability in Rhynchosporium secalis in Ethiopia. Twenty four isolates of R. secalis, collected from Arsi, Bale and Shoa, major barley growing locations in Ethiopia, were tested on ten differential host cultivars, with known genes for resistance to the disease. The most frequent pathotypes were those inducing susceptible reactions on cvs Steudelli and Kitchen and the least complex pathotype identified was able to induce a susceptible reaction on these two cultivars only. Pathotypes 16 and 7 were the most complex and were able to induce susceptible reactions on 10 and 9 of the differential host cultivars respectively. These pathotypes were collected from research stations and were isolated from improved barley cultivars belonging to the malting barley type. The most frequent pathotype was pathotype 6 which was represented by four isolates from different locations in Arsi, Bale and Shoa. Pathogenic variation was detected amongst spores collected from the same field and from the same geographical location. The most effective resistance genes were those possessed by Turk, La-Mesita, Bey, Nigrinudum, Jet and Forrajera.
Competition Effect of Chenopodium album L. for Potassium and Grain Yield in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Tanveer A. , Ayub M. , Ahmad R.
Published: June 2017

A field experiment was conducted to estimate potassium (K) and yield losses by Chenopodium album in wheat under different competition periods. The study consisted of zero competition, competition for 3,4,5,6,7,8 weeks after emergence (WAE), and for full season. Potassium concentration in C. album was maximum (4.91 %) when it was allowed to compete with wheat for 6 WAE. Full season competition resulted in a maximum K uptake (8.22 kg ha-1) by C. album. Maximum K concentration (4.39 %) in wheat was recorded in 4 WAE competition period whereas maximum K uptake (98.40 kg ha-1) by wheat was in full season competition period. There was a linear increase in dry wheat of C. album with increase in competition period. Grain yield decreased significantly beyond 3-4 WAE competition periods and maximum decrease (25.59 %) in grain yield was observed in full season competition.
Screening Potato Varieties for Cultivation in Arid Regions: Effect of Planting Date on Emergence of Imported and Locally-Produced Seeds
Authors: Khan I. , Deadman M.L. , AI-Habsi K.A.
Published: June 2017

Potato is new as a major crop in arid regions. Due to its food value, expanding production and increasing consumer demand, it is being considered as a strategic crop. Production is based on yearly import of seed potatoes from Europe. Productivity of potato could be increased by targeted selection of varieties for local adaptation, by choosing the adequate conditions for planting and through proper seed management. The seed and its imposed planting time were found to be incompatible with optimum stand development for the crop, resulting in a loss of potential yield. The young physiological age and persisting dormancy of seed prevented early emergence of sprouts from a mid-November planting time. When planted on 11 consecutive dates, varieties showed a significant improvement of emergence rates with delayed planting time. Emergence rate doubled as planting was delayed from mid November to mid December. Emergence rate results for imported tubers were confirmed over three consecutive growing seasons and contrast with emergence data for locally produced seed planted at the same or earlier dates.
Management of Nitrate m Groundwater: A Simulation Study
Authors: Ahmed M. , AI-Rawahy S. , Al-Handhaly J. , AI-Saadi S.N. , Al-Ajmi H.
Published: June 2017

Agriculture may cause nitrate and other chemicals to enter into groundwater systems. Nitrate in drinking water is considered a health hazard. A study was conducted to assess the extent of nitrate pollution of groundwater caused by agriculture and to evaluate the possibility of using the LEACHN model to manage nitrate entry into groundwater of agricultural areas of Al-Batinah, which is the most important agricultural region of Oman. Groundwater samples were collected and analyzed to assess the problem and to detect possible trends. Soil sampling and analyses were done to demonstrate the difference in the nitrate concentration in agricultural and non-agricultural soils. A questionnaire survey was conducted to gather information on agricultural practices, fertilizer input, and other possible sources of nitrate pollution. Results from the study show that 23% of groundwater samples have a concentration of nitrate-N concentration of 10 mg/l and 34% samples exceed 8 mg/l. Agricultural soils have higher levels of nitrate compared to non- agricultural soils. Results also demonstrate that nitrate levels in groundwater in Al-Batinah are rising. Application of the ‘LEACHN’ model demonstrated its suitability for use as a management tool to reduce nitrate leaching to groundwater by controlling fertilizer and water input.
Insecticidal and Repellent Properties of Subtropical Plant Extracts Against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis
Authors: AI Lawati H.T. , Azam K. M. , Deadman M.L.
Published: June 2017

Extracts of eight plants local to Oman, namely Qarat (Acacia nilotica), Mustafal (Annona squamosa), Shereesh (Azadirachta indica), Luban (Boswellia sacra), Kheshkhash (Crotolaria juncea), Zebrot (Jatropha dhofarica) Yas, (Myrtus communis) and Suwwad (Suaeda aegyptiaca) were prepared by steeping shaded dried leaf/ seed powder of each plant in water and solvent (methanol or ethanol). The extracts were tested for their insecticidal and repellent properties against the pulse beetles, Callosobruchus chinensis. The extracts from the seeds of A. squamosa recorded l00% mortality of beetles within twenty and four hours of their exposure to methanol and ethanol extracts, respectively. The other extracts that caused high mortality were from A. nilotica, C. juncea, M. communis and S. aegzptiaca in methanol and B. sacra, J. dhofarica, S. aegptiaca and commercial neem in ethanol. Extracts of M. communis in methanol were highly repellent to the beetles compared to other extracts. Legume seeds treated with extracts of A. squamosa were not repellent, rather the beetles were attracted to them.
Potential of Omani Flora as Source of Natural Products for Control of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis
Authors: AI-Lawati H.T. , Azam K.M. , Deadman M.L.
Published: June 2017

Extracts of eight plants from the Omani flora were tested for their effects on oviposition, adult emergence from eggs and mortality of the pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis. Observations were made on the number of eggs laid on kidney bean seeds treated with extracts, adult emergence from seeds and mortality of adults exposed to treated seeds. The number of eggs laid and the adults emerged from seeds treated with extracts prepared from ethanol were significantly less than from seeds treated with extracts prepared from methanol. The mortality of beetles released on grains treated with A. squamosa was l00% within 2 and 6 days in ethanol- and methanol-based extracts, respectively.
Control of Varroa Mite (Varroa destructor) on Honeybees by Aromatic Oils and Plant Materials
Authors: Nazer I.K. , Al-Abbadi A.
Published: June 2017

The effect of several volatile plant oils, plant materials and fluvalinate (Apistan®) strips on the control of the mite Varroa destructor on honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies was studied. The volatile oils were: clove, lavender, peppermint, sage, and thyme. The plant materials were: cumin fruits, eucalyptus leaves, and worm wood flowers. For each tested material, three treatment periods were carried out. Each period lasted for 24 days followed by eight days no-treatment. Within each treatment period, an average of three to six treatments were applied. Dead mites were counted one hour before and after each treatment. An increase in dead mites was recorded for the three treatment periods. It indicated that worm wood flowers, peppermint oil and clove oil treatments gave the best results in the control of Varroa mites but not significantly different than the control. The overall increase in the dead mites was 3.92, 3.62 and 3.34 fold, respectively.
Influence of Pollination Technique on Greenhouse Tomato Production
Authors: Nazer I.K. , Kasrawi M.A. , Al-Attal Y.Z.
Published: June 2017

An experiment was carried out to study the effects of four pollination techniques; Bumblebees (Bombus terrerstris L.), plant growth bioregulator (PGB) (Parachlorophenoxy acetic acid), hand vibration, and control (natural pollination) on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) production in greenhouses. Bumblebees showed no problem in visiting flowers at a temperature range of 17-42°C during the day and 2-14°C at night. Bumblebee pollinated plants produced a yield per plant which was significantly higher than plants treated with PGB, vibration and the control, respectively. Fruit set of tomato flowers over 10 clusters was 99.1, 96.7, 76.7, and 65.7% for bumblebee treatment, PGB application, vibration and the control, respectively. In the bumblebee pollinated flowers, the quality of fruits was superior. The fruits were hard, with more seeds, and had a high specific gravity and better appearance. The average fruit weight was 100.3, 80.5, 84.1, and 70.6 g for the bumblebee, PGB, vibration and the control, respectively. The PGB treatment produced bigger sized but puffy fruits (108.4 ml). While fruit size in the vibration treatment was the highest (126.8 ml), followed by the bumblebee and the control which were 99.3 and 98.5 ml, respectively. Fruit specific gravity in the bumblebee treatment was significantly higher than other treatments, with no significant differences between the PGB and the vibration treatments. The least dense fruits were in the control treatment. Regarding the firmness of fruits, the bumblebee treatment gave the hardest fruits, while the PGB and the vibration treatments were intermediate and the control was the least. Average seed number per fruit was 177.0, 86.5, 61.8, and 89.8 for bumblebee, vibration, PGB and the control, respectively.
Apresentação da Reitora
Authors: Engelbrecht Profa. Dra. Angela De Mendonça
Published: June 2017

Prezados leitores,Quanto mais promove a reflexão, o debate e a troca de ideias, tanto mais a Universidade potencializa seus objetivos de produção e difusão do conhecimento.
A Diplomacia da Santa Sé
Authors: D’Aniello Dom Giovanni
Published: June 2017

Excelência Reverendíssima, Dom Airton José dos Santos, Exma. Senhora Professora, Doutora Ângela de Mendonça Engelbrecht, Magnífica Reitora da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Distintas Autoridades Acadêmicas e distintos Professores, Meus caros Sacerdotes, Religiosos, Religiosas e Seminaristas, Meus caros Estudantes, Senhoras e Senhores.
A cultura midiática como um desafio à Igreja Católica
Authors: Souza Lindolfo Alexandre de
Published: June 2017

Este artigo apresenta uma breve reflexão acerca do termo cultura midiática, bem como sobre o impacto deste conceito no discurso e na ação evangelizadora da Igreja Católica Apostólica Romana. Para tanto, recorre a uma retomada ao Concílio Ecumênico Vaticano II, o qual, sob esse aspecto, contribuiu em duas dimensões: primeiro, ao propor que a Igreja Católica estabelecesse canais de diálogo com o mundo contemporâneo; segundo, pela promulgação do “Decreto Inter Mirifica sobre os meios de comunicação social”, que configurou-se como um divisor de águas na forma como a instituição católica passou a posicionar-se sobre a o mundo da mídia, bem como sobre os diversos caminhos de atuação neste cenário. Ao articular os campos da cultura midiática e Igreja Católica, este texto busca contribuir com o tema central do evento que o inspirou, qual seja, a universidade católica e a cultura. Como principal referencial teórico buscou se reflexões da autora Joana T. Puntel, religiosa paulina e pesquisadora na área de comunicação.