bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Do the Human Capital Characteristics of Entrepreneurial Team Influence Corporate Financial Performance?
Authors: Long Dan , Tang Yu-jing , Fang Xiao-Zhi , Cai Ke-Chun
Published: August 2020

Researches on the direct impact of the characteristics of top management team on corporate financial performance have obtained many achievements for a long time. Little literatures studied the relationship between human capital characteristics of entrepreneurial team and corporate financial performance. Based on the Upper Echelons theory, this paper empirically tests the relationship among the characteristics of entrepreneurial team, debt financing scale and corporate financial performance. It collects 1221 valid data from the datasets of listed companies on ChiNext in 2014-2016. Using multiple regression analysis, this paper finds that human capital characteristics of entrepreneurial team have a significant impact on corporate financial performance as well as debt financing scale. Besides, the debt financing scale plays a partial mediating role. This paper enriches Upper Echelons theory by focusing on human capital characteristics of entrepreneurial team in new ventures. Previous studies usually pay their attention to the human capital characteristics of top management team in main board listed companies. Besides, by verifying the mediating effect of debt financing scale, this paper inspires to explore the indirect relationship between human capital characteristics of entrepreneurial team and corporate financial performance.
How Effective the Employee Training Programs Are? Evidence from Government Banks of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Nazrul , Nafizur Rahman Md. , Mumtahina Mridha Eshnat , Sultana Sharna Jasmin , Mosharraf Maliha , Nower Nowshin
Published: August 2020

This paper attempts to identify the factors concerning the effectiveness of training programs of government-owned commercial banks in Bangladesh. The banking industry of Bangladesh has witnessed tremendous growth since the country’s independence. Need-based training and development of manpower have become prerequisites for the continuous growth of this sector. The prominent government banks conduct numerous training programs for the fresh recruits and the existing staff as well. A sample of 205 bank personnel who received training from the state-owned banks was surveyed through a structured questionnaire. The responses of the employees were analyzed using the Exploratory Factor Analysis and Multiple Regression Analysis techniques. This paper finds that the development of overall skills, reduction of stress level, development of technical skills, need-based training programs, long-run productivity, and quality of the instructors are the significant factors contributing to the effectiveness of training programs of government banks in Bangladesh. The finding of this study implies that the bank managers should emphasize more on the reduction of stress level, development of technical skills, need-based training programs, long-run productivity, and quality of the instructors that directly affect the effectiveness of the training programs run by the government-owned commercial banks in Bangladesh.
The Impact of Responsible Leadership (RL) on Responsible Employee (RE): The Mediating Role of Sustainable Leadership (SL)
Authors: Shaaban Safaa
Published: August 2020

Business leaders are facing an uncertain issue regarding what extent their actions and decisions are responsible for the sustainable development supported by Responsible Employees. Although, several papers are discussing the concept of Responsible Leadership (RL) and Sustainable Leadership (SL). However, there is still an important missing element connected to these two leadership approaches which are Responsible Employee/s (RE). The purpose of this paper is to explore how Responsible Leadership and Sustainable Leadership affect Responsible Employees (RE). The study will examine the impact of two leadership approaches on RE. A sample of 250 employees and future leaders’ positions working in the 18 factories and companies located in Egypt responded to a four parts questionnaire measuring research variables (Responsible Leadership, Sustainable Leadership and Responsible Employees). This study applies statistical analysis using SPSS, regression analysis, correlation, and structure equation module applied for this study. The finding of this study shows that Sustainable Leadership fully mediates the relationship between Responsible Leadership and Responsible Employees.
Is Specialized Training a Basic Necessity for Special Students Teaching?
Authors: Chege Kinuthia Samuel , Christine Wanjiru Kabui Anne
Published: August 2020

Every individual irrespective of their profession, requires requisite training to enable them to do a particular job with reasonable accuracy, achieving desired results. Mid-school is the stage between primary basic education and the tertiary level and in Kenya it is referred to as secondary education that is evaluated with a national examination (KCSE) at the end of the four years. Teachers’ role in a students’ performance cannot be underestimated where students with or without disabilities are subjected to the same national examinations. Performance in the national special schools in Kenya does not compare favorably with that of ordinary national schools irrespective of same caliber of teachers in both. This necessitated an empirical inquiry into whether there is need for extra training for teachers in special schools. The study sought to establish the influence of teacher training on the performance of special schools in Kenya. The performance of a school is measured based on the overall mean attained in KSCE examinations. The study focused on the national schools that are in the category of special schools in Kenya. The study is anchored on Behaviorist theory which states that learning is a function of change in overt behavior. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was carried out where data was collected using a self-administered semi structured questionnaire. Study findings indicate that 76.6% of variation in performance is predicted by training implying that relevant training of teachers in special schools is critical in achieving the expected learning outcomes with quality grades in KCSE that are pivotal in determining learners’ career paths. The study recommends creating an enabling environment and support to teachers willing to pursue training in special education. Further research should be done to determine how the subsector can be adequately funded both for initial and on-the-job special teacher training for special needs schools.
Hetzelfde ≠ gelijk
Authors: van Zelst Bas
Published: August 2020

Hetzelfde ≠ gelijk. Aandachtspunten bij elektronische zittingen: een arbitragerechtelijk perspectief

Het Nederlandse arbitragerecht geeft een scheidsgerecht de discretionaire bevoegdheid om te beslissen dat een hoorzitting ‘langs elektronische weg’ wordt gevoerd. Deze bijdrage beoordeelt het idee dat deze bevoegdheid van verplichte aard is. De bevoegdheid van arbiters om voor een elektronische hoorzitting te kiezen, is volgens haar beperkt door de fundamentele beginselen van het procesrecht, met name het gelijkheidsbeginsel. Het artikel somt relevante overwegingen op bij de keuze voor een elektronische hoorzitting in arbitrageprocedures met Nederlandse zetel en is van mening dat dergelijke overwegingen, gezien hun fundamentele karakter, ook van toepassing kunnen zijn in procedures voor de Nederlandse nationale rechtbanken.
C.E. Sander Andersen orbituary
Authors: Sander-Andersen C. E.
Published: August 2020

C.E. Sander-Andersen Obituary
Aksel Volten orbituary
Authors: Volten Aksel
Published: August 2020

Aksel Volten Obituary
La conception de l’âme chez Abū Ḥayyān al-Tawḥīdī
Authors: Kenanah Faisal
Published: August 2020

Résumé

Pour étudier le thème de l’humanisme arabe à travers une approche définitionnelle, nous proposons pour corpus l’œuvre classique du célèbre Abū Ḥayyān al-Tawḥīdī, le Kitāb al-Imtāʿ wa’l-muʾānasa (Le plaisir offert et la sociabilité partagée). Nous nous pencherons plus particulièrement sur l’un des sujets philosophiques les plus importants de cet ouvrage : l’âme.

Dans cette étude, il sera question d’aborder les différentes définitions et les caractères de l’âme, ses liens avec le corps et l’esprit, son immortalité, ce qui définit l’être humain. Notre auteur constate que les opinions des savants sont partagées et divergentes à propos de la définition de l’âme et cette multiplicité de définitions conduit à la perplexité.

Notre objectif est donc ici d’apporter une réflexion et de saisir le sens de l’âme chez Tawḥīdī. Pour parler de ce sujet, ce lettré des philosophes et philosophe des lettrés expose ses idées selon sa formation de musulman intellectuel et selon des données culturelles de son époque et de son milieu. C’est dans cette optique que nous essayerons d’illustrer la réflexion morale de l’auteur, sa pensée et ses positions.

Abstract

In order to examine the theme of Arab humanism by means of a conceptual approach, we shall look into the classic work by the famous author Abū Ḥayyān al-Tawḥīdī: Kitāb al-Imtāʿ wa’l-muʾānasa (The Book of Enjoyment and Conviviality). We shall mainly focus on one of the most significant philosophical aspects of his work—the soul. This study will examine various concepts and definitions of the soul, its relationship with human body and mind, its immortality, which are part and parcel of humanity. The author states that intellectuals disagree as to their definition of the soul, and their multifarious opinions leave us in bewilderment. This paper’s aim is to engage in a discussion about soul so as to grasp its importance in Tawḥīdī. Broaching the question, this philosopher of litterateurs and the litterateur of philosophers presents his ideas according to his background as a Muslim intellectual and in accordance with the cultural aspects of his time and his social environment. This paper attempts to provide an overview of the author’s moral and philosophical ideas.
Our Bodies Belong to God, So What?
Authors: Ali Mansur
Published: August 2020

Organ transplantation is a morally challenging subject. It gives rise to several ethical dilemmas which question the very meaning of what it means to be a human being. For some Muslims, organ transplantation impinges on God’s claim to ownership. Research reveals that proponents of organ transplantation focus on the benefits afforded to the recipient, while opponents highlight the situation of the donor. For them the entire focus on the health benefits to the recipient turns a blind eye to the dignity of the donor who is viewed as nothing more than a repository for organs, to be extracted and then forgotten. After a brief survey of the different opinions on organ transplantation, I present a translation and commentary of an article written by the former grand-mufti of Lebanon, Muḥammad Rashīd Qabbānī which attempts to research the issue of whether organ transplantation impinges on God’s sovereignty over the human body or not.
UV-Related Melanoma Cancer and Its Association with the Human Development Index (HDI): GLOBOCAN Sources and Methods
Authors: Seraji Maryam , Khazaei Zaher , Momenabadi Victoria , Beiranvand Reza , Naghibzadeh-Tahami Ahmad , Nejadsadeghi Elham , Zahmatkeshan Maryam , Moayed Leili , Goodarzi Elham
Published: August 2020

Background: Exposure to radiation is a major risk factor for skin cancer so that 65 to 90% of skin cancers can be attributed to the exposure with sunlight. Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate the association between the human development index and the incidence of UV-related melanoma. Methods: This is an ecological study. Data on the incidence of UV-induced melanoma were extracted from the GLOBOCAN estimates (GLOBOCAN 2012), and data on the human development index were extracted from the World Health Organization (WHO) database. Data analysis was conducted by Stata software (Ver. 14). The descriptive analysis involved mean and standard deviation. The correlation method was used to evaluate the association between the population attributable fraction (PAF) of melanoma for ultraviolet (UV) and the HDI components. A P value < 0.005 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The results revealed a significant positive association between UV-attributable melanoma cancer and HDI in women (r = 0.401, P < 0.0001), men (r = 0.488, P < 0.0001), and both sexes (r = 0.455, P < 0.0001). In Americas (r = 0.452, P < 0.05) and Europe (r = 0.740, P < 0.05), a significant positive correlation was observed between UV-induced melanoma and HDI, but this association was not significant in Asia (P > 0.05). In Africa, a negative correlation was observed, though it was not statistically significant (r = -0.301, P > 0.05). The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant statistical relationship between the incidence of UV-related melanoma and the levels of development (F = 25.1, P < 0.0001) so that the higher the score of HDI, the higher the incidence of this cancer. Conclusions: Since there is a positive correlation between UV-related melanoma and HDI, further attention should be paid to this risk factor, especially in countries with a high HDI to reduce the UV-induced melanoma cancer.
Identifying Key Factors Related to the Resource Allocation in the Health Sector of the Iranian Oil Industry: Application of DEMATEL Method
Authors: Nouri Somayeh , Riahi Leila , Haji Nabi Kamran , Jahangiri Katayoun
Published: August 2020

Background: Resource allocation is one of the major challenges of health systems. Various criteria are used to allocate health resources worldwide. Objectives: The current study aimed to identify and prioritize key factors related to the resource allocation in the health sector of the Iranian Oil Industry using the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method. Methods: This cross-sectional case study was conducted in two main phases during 2017. In the first phase, the literature review and interviews with experts (n = 6) were used to identify initial criteria for resource allocation. Then, considering the views of high and middle managers in the health sector of the Iranian Oil Industry, the final criteria were selected. In the second phase, the DEMATEL technique was used to assess the interactions among the selected criteria. Results: A total of nine criteria were entered into the DEMATEL final questionnaire. Criteria were divided into two main groups of influencing and influenced factors. The high-level documents and general policies of the health system (C1), the burden of diseases (C2), the number of population covered (C4), the infrastructure of the covered regions (C5), and population health needs (C8) were among factors that influenced other factors. Factors such as current budget (C3), the expected benefits of people (C6), the expected benefits of policymakers (C7), and the financial returns of the resource allocation (C9) were among the factors that were influenced by other factors. The number of covered population (C4) and the infrastructure of the regions (C5) were not influenced by other factors but could affect other factors. High-level documents (C1) and the burden of diseases (C2) were identified as independent factors. Conclusions: While allocating resources, policymakers should pay particular attention to influencing factors. The number of population covered in each region and the infrastructure available in each region were identified as key and important criteria in the resource allocation process. It is suggested that these factors be considered while allocating resources to different regions of the country.
The Effect of Positive Thinking Training on Different Dimensions of Quality of Life of Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Peyravi Mahmoudreza , Amirkhani Mehdi , Abadi Faeze , Abbasijahromi Ali , Sheidaie Shima , Modreki Amene
Published: August 2020

Background: Nowadays, the quality of life of hemodialysis patients has decreased, which doubled the need for educational interventions. Objectives: The current study investigated the effect of positive thinking training on different dimensions of quality of life of hemodialysis patients. Methods: This is a controlled clinical trial study conducted on 70 hemodialysis patients in Fasa, Fars province, in 2019. The patients were selected using the simple sampling method. Then, they were divided into two groups of intervention (n = 35) and control (n = 35). After obtaining informed consent, the researchers asked the participants to complete the SF-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire. The intervention group was trained positive thinking skills in 8 workshop sessions; each lasted for 90 minutes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. To analyze the data, statistical tests such as chi-square, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, independent, and t-test were used. Results: The mean and standard deviation of the patients’ quality of life in the intervention group increased from 35.95 ± 10.07 to 55.98 ± 11.71 (P < 0.001). The changes in patients’ quality of life before and after the intervention were also assessed in 8 dimensions, which showed that the quality of life of the patients did not change significantly in terms of physical function (P = 0.42) and physical pain (P = 0.62), but for other dimensions, it was significantly increased (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Positive thinking training improved the quality of life of hemodialysis patients, particularly in the dimensions of the emotional role, emotional health, energy and vitality, social performance, and general health is recommended.
Current Educational Practices from Multicultural Perspectives in Oromia Secondary Schools: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Tezera Debela
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study is to examine the current educational practices from multicultural perspective in secondary schools of Eastern Wollega Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. To realize this, survey method was adopted to collect data from 5 experts, 10 principals, 51 teachers, and 102 students. The students were select randomly by using simple random sampling techniques while experts, principals, and teachers were selected by the availability sampling method. Questionnaires and interviews were used for data collections. The collected data were analyzed by frequencies, percentages, and narration of words. The findings revealed that respondents were highly aware of multicultural education. However, it was not implemented into educational practices. Furthermore, lack of skills, knowledge, negative attitude, and discrimination based on prejudices, ethnocentrism, politics, and religion were the main challenges. The study confirmed that establishing clubs could boost multicultural education awareness and positive attitude. It could also raise the students, teachers, and the society’s awareness about multicultural education. Teachers should encourage students in practicing tolerance and respecting differences. Furthermore, school principals and Oromia Education Bureau should create different mechanisms for nurturing multicultural education and creating a means to minimize discrimination. Finally, the study indicates the need for preparing teachers, students, and the school community to build unity within diversity and tolerance in the schools.
Revisiting Common Source and Target Domains in Conceptual Metaphors in a Sample of English Fiction: Implications for Literacy Practices and Advanced EFL Pedagogy
Authors: Layegh Nasim , Hadidi Yaser , Zohrabi Mohammad
Published: August 2020

Metaphor research has always been conducted with various purposes in mind, among which the diachronic analysis of metaphor variation in discourse is outstanding. The current work followed a qualitative research mould to analyze the use of conceptual metaphors within the two novels Persuasion and The Fault in Our Stars, belonging to 19th and 21st centuries, respectively. To this end, a framework of common source and target domains proposed by Zoltán Kövecses was adopted. The analysis was conducted using the Metaphor Identification Procedure, a reliable method for marking metaphorically used words (Pragglejaz Group, 2007). The majority of the identified source and target domains in the two samples were identical, supporting the common domains in the framework, although some novel domains were also identified. With the support found for these common source and target domains and their being expected to repeat prominently in different advanced literary and semi-literary genres, the present analysis resonates with important implications for upper-intermediate and advanced EFL pedagogy, as well as teachers and syllabus designers, when literature-text, as part and parcel of the upper-intermediate EFL context, is introduced to the classroom.
The Predictive Power of Turkish Teachers’ Reflective Thinking Skills Perceptions in their Problem Solving Skills Perceptions
Authors: KARAKOÇ Ceren , DEMİR Özden
Published: August 2020

The Turkish education program has a great importance in terms of increasing the quality of education and training process and determining and developing the cognitive skills of students. The explanation of the relationship between the high-level thinking skills of Turkish teachers responsible for teaching the program and the Turkish education program reveals the necessity of the study. Accordingly, this research was created in order to determine the relationship between reflective thinking skills perceptions and problem solving skills perceptions that should be present in Turkish teaching. The sample of the study consists of 106 Turkish teachers who are working in eight districts of Kars Province. In this study, the Reflective Thinking Tendency Scale (YANDE) and Problem Solving Inventory (PSI) were used. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. According to the findings, the relationships between total and sub-dimensions of Turkish teachers’ reflective thinking skills perceptions and their problem-solving skills perceptions were moderate. According to the findings; continuous and purposeful thinking, open-mindedness, questioner and effective teaching, teaching responsibility and scientificity, predictive and sincerity and professional perspective sub-dimensions of reflective thinking scale do not significantly predict any sub-dimension of problem solving. However, it is observed that the ‘researcher sub-dimension of the reflective thinking’ scale significantly predicts problem solving total scores, hasty approach scores, thinking approach scores and avoidant approach scores. The relationship between total and sub-dimensions of reflective thinking skills perceptions of Turkish teachers and total and sub-dimensions of problem solving skills perceptions was found to be at a moderate level. These thinking skills should be considered when planning activities in undergraduate and professional education to develop reflective thinking skills perceptions and problem solving skills perceptions of Turkish teachers.
English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Learners’ Perceptions on the Effectiveness of the Internet to Enhance their Learning
Authors: Al-Muwallad Ziad Abdulrahman
Published: August 2020

This study attempted to investigate the vital role of the internet in enhancing the learning of reading. In addition, the study aimed to measure the students’ attitudes towards the internet and to identify to what extent the internet was employed in their reading classes. Moreover, the study aimed to explore the challenges that they encountered while using the internet in their learning of reading. In order to achieve these goals, the researcher used the descriptive analytical approach and used the questionnaire as the main data collection tool. The study sample comprised 50 Saudi EFL male students in the preparatory year at King Saud University in Saudi Arabia. The findings of the study showed that students perceived that the internet is important in the process of reading comprehension learning and teaching with positive attitudes towards the internet. Results showed that the top challenges of using of the internet for reading learning/teaching are lack of students’ knowledge to know what to read on the internet, the short time of the class, and the students’ lack of the skills and knowledge to use the internet for academic purposes. Furthermore, the results showed that the students mostly used the internet for playing games, social networking, and learning vocabulary. It is recommended that English language teachers should be encouraged to use the internet in their language classes as it is valuable for their students to enhance their reading comprehension skills.
Social Studies Student Teachers’ Views on “School Experience Course”
Authors: Kaymak Burcu , Emel Akhan Nadire
Published: August 2020

This study sought to determine the opinions of prospective teachers studying in the last year of the social studies undergraduate program about the school experience. More specifically, it was aimed to determine the views of social studies preservice teachers concerning the necessity of the school experience course, the contribution of the course to them, their experiences in the process of the course, and their views towards the stakeholders of the practice. For this purpose, a total of 56 student teachers, 19 females and 37 males in their 4th year of social studies education, who attended the education faculty of a public university in the 2019-2020 academic year participated in the research. The data were collected through interviews which were analyzed following a basic qualitative analysis method, using content analysis while evaluating its questions. In general, it has been observed that social studies student teachers have expectations regarding the following subjects. The study found out that the student and student teachers’ experiences regarding themselves were among the positive attributes of the internship. The positive/negative reflections of the student teachers regarding the duties and responsibilities of the stakeholders have also been mentioned in the study. Based on the acquired data, this study recommends that the student teachers of social studies receive the attention they deserve during their internships; the Ministry of Education must inform and regularly inspect training schools and also use internship guides prepared specifically for social studies teaching to improve the efficacy of the internship.
The Effects of Morphological Awareness on EFL Secondary School Students’ Reading Comprehension Skills
Authors: Al-Haydan Dalal Yahya Ali
Published: August 2020

This exploratory study examines the impacts of morphological awareness on Saudi female secondary school students’ reading comprehension skills. In particular, it examines the effects of increasing students’ morphological awareness on their reading comprehension skills. Participants included 58 Saudi female secondary school students, who were divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group was taught using a morphemic analysis strategy during their reading classes, whereas the control group attended their usual reading comprehension classes. Pretests and post-tests were prepared to determine the effect of raising students’ awareness of morphological knowledge on their reading comprehension skills. The results indicated a strong positive correlation between the students’ morphological awareness and the improvement of their reading comprehension skills in the post-test. The study, therefore, confirms that the direct instruction of prefixes, suffixes and base words is useful and should be emphasised when teaching because it significantly increases students’ morphological awareness.
School Radio: Finding Innovation in Reaching Remote Learners in Belize
Authors: Kirshner Jean Denison
Published: August 2020

This case study on Belize educators during the COVID-19 school closures examines the innovative approach the educators of this country took. As many schools across the globe swiftly pivoted to online learning during the COVID-19 school closures, the educators of Belize recognized that digital learning would leave out their marginalized students who did not have internet connectivity. Instead, the educators of Belize drew on the history of their country, using school radio to reach their youngest citizens located in remote locations without internet. This innovative solution, reaching students in villages without internet, required the collaboration of Belize’s teachers and radio broadcasters.
Analytical Study of Plastic Mulching in Tuberose and Melons in Dharmapuri District of Tamilnadu
Authors: Indhumathi K. , Shanmugam P. S. , Sangeetha M.
Published: August 2020

Dharmapuri is a versatile district with a wide variety of crop diversity from millets to vegetables under protected cultivation. Tuberose and melons are livelihood crops for small and marginal farmers with limited irrigation water source. About 80% of the cost of cultivation is spent on weed management in tuberose. Productivity in melons is affected due to soil-borne diseases and fruit flies.  Front line demonstrations for the use of plastic mulching was conducted to address the issues. The demonstrations were conducted in farmers’ fields and each farmer field is considered as one location. Results of the demonstrations were analysed in various perspectives including economic benefits so as to showcase the positive outcome of the plastic mulching technology.  There was about 15 – 20% increase in the melons and 18 - 22% in the case of the tuberose. Though the increase in productivity cannot be correlated only to plastic mulching, the improvement in the fruit quality (95% of first grade fruits) attributed by plastic mulching especially in melons. Weed management cost was reduced in tuberose by 80%. In melons the reduced crop duration by 6 – 8 days indirectly reduced the cost of cultivation and added to the net returns of the crop. The economic benefit of the technology were realised by farmers.
Cash Flow Optimality and Investment Returns: Investors Expectations in Listed Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria
Authors: Aguguom Theophilus Anaekenwa
Published: August 2020

This study investigated the effect of cash flow optimality on investment returns in selected listed Manufacturing companies in Nigeria. The population consisted of listed 66 manufacturing companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. 25 of these manufacturing companies were purposively selected for a period of 10 years (2010-2019). The study employed data obtained from the published financial statement of the selected manufacturing companies. Panel data analysis was employed while diagnostic tests were carried out and an application of the Hausman test provided the criteria for choosing between Random Effect Models and Fixed Effect Models. Jarque-Bera Normality, Breusch, and Pagan Lagrangian multiplier tests were conducted to confirm the Hausman test results in order to decide between Random Effects and Pooled OLS. The study found that cash flow optimality had a positive statistically significant on return on assets, AdjR2 = 0.099; Wad-chi2 (4, 245) = 22.22; P-value = 0.000). Furthermore, the study revealed that cash flow optimality exhibited a positive statistical effect on Tobin’s Q, (AdjR2 = 0.130; F (4, 245) = 2.884; P-value = 0.025). Thus, the study recommended that since the essence of investment is the expected returns, managers of manufacturing companies should ensure that all strategic decisions are channeled towards this direction, and ensure efficient resources management and cash flow optimal management towards meeting investor returns expectations.
Effect of Fermented Lamtoro Leaf (Leucaena leucocephala) Meal on Growth Rate of Giant Gourami Fingerlings (Osphronemus gouramy)
Authors: Ramadhani Choirun Nissa , Andriani Yuli , Suryadi Ibnu Bangkit Bioshina , Haetami Kiki
Published: August 2020

This research aims to determine the percentage of the addition of fermented lamtoro leaf on fish growth rate of gourami fingerlings. The test fish used was gourami that amounted to 320 tails with a length of 4-6 cm from Farming Development Gurame and Nilem – Singaparna, Tasikmalaya. The container used in this research was an aquarium with a total of 16 pieces with a size of 40 × 30 × 30 cm3. The density of gourami fingerlings during the research was 20 fish-tails/aquarium with long maintenance of 40 days. The feed given is 5% of the fish body biomass. The research was conducted on 8 November 2019 until 14 February 2020 at the Fisheries Laboratory, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia. This research used experimental method with Completely Random Design (CRD), which consists of four treatments and four times the repeated feeding of commercial feed (control), the leaf meal of lamtoro fermentation result 10%, 15%, and 20%. Based on the results of the research, fermentation of lamtoro leaves can improve nutrient content after fermentation, seen from the presence of increased protein content from 21.88% to 26.11% and decrease in crude fiber content from 46.33% to 20.85%. The addition of lamtoro leaf meal fermentation results up to 15% in commercial feed resulting in a daily growth rate of 1.90%, feed conversion ratio of 2.05 and the survival rate of 70%.
The Zubair-Inverse Lomax Distribution with Applications
Authors: Falgore Jamilu Yunusa
Published: August 2020

In this article, an extension of Inverse Lomax (IL) distribution with the Zubair-G family is considered . Various statistical properties of the new model where derived, including moment generating function, R´enyi entropy, and order statistics. A Monte Carlo simulation study was presented to evaluate the performance of the maximum likelihood estimators. The new model can be skew to the right, constant, and decreasing functions depending on the parameter values.We discussed the estimation of the model parameters by maximum likelihood method. The application of the new model to the data sets indicates that the new model is better than the existing competitors as it has minimum value of statistics criteria.
Effect of Roller Speed and Inclination Angle on the Stem Cutting Efficiency of Shallot Onion
Authors: Anand M. Tito , Venkatachalapathy N. , S. Anandakumar , Pare Akash
Published: August 2020

Shallot or aggregatum onion (Allium cepaL. var. aggregation.) is one of the oldest bulb crops known to mankind and extensively grown and consumed in Southern states of India. They are one among the most important commercial vegetable and spice crops, widely used in the south Indian kitchen mainly for seasoning of curries. Aggregatum onion invariably forms afresh cluster of bulbs, often as many as 10 or 15 per cluster. In India, presently about 35 to 40 percent of the onion is estimated to be lost by post-harvest practices during various operations including handling and storage. Presently after harvest onions are processed by hand labor to remove the leaves and the roots. Hand topping has obvious disadvantages including both cost and length of time necessary to process a large number of onions. However, in recent times it is becoming increasingly difficult to find sufficient skilled labor to do the job. Farmers and processors need a suitable post-harvest machine for stem cutting of shallot onion. Owing to the practical problem in the processing of shallot onion a stem cutting machine for shallot onion was designed and fabricated. The fabricated machine with different parameters like the slope of the machine and different speeds of the rollers were optimized. Different slopes (100, 200, 300) with two roller speeda (500 to 1500 rpm) were studied, results observed showed that at 200 slope and 1000 rpm, the cutting efficiency was very good (100%) with less damage to bulbs (2%).
The Relevance of Post Graduation Research in Agricultural Sciences in Selected Indian Universities
Authors: Maraddi Krishna S. , Hiremath Kumaraswamy , Arunkumar B. , Hadinami D. K. , Sunitha N. H.
Published: August 2020

The study was conducted in selected farm universities in Karnataka state namely Raichur, Dharwad and Bangalore Agricultural Universities for the period 2015-16 and 2016-17 to know about the relevance of post graduate research in agricultural sciences. The preferred research areas focused in various subjects of agricultural sciences were categorized and studied the relevance on the major fields of specialization in these farm universities. The results show that among various post-graduation disciplines numerically highest research relevance was observed in agronomy and least relevance was observed in crop physiology. Hence, the study suggests that research areas should be focused on current regions of overall agriculture development and research relevance should be focused on present problems which can address the farming communities about the current pressing agricultural development problems.
To Workout Nutrigenetic Traits for Silkworm, Bombyx mori L. by Absorption/Assimilation for Determining Growth and Development for Identifying Parental Breeds for Future Breeding during Spring Season under Subtropical Region of North West India
Authors: Murali S. , Singh Sardar
Published: August 2020

Study was conducted for screening and evaluation of selected breed’s for nutrigenetic traits in silkworm, Bombyx mori L. (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) is an essential prerequisite for better understanding and development of nutritionally efficient breeds under Subtropical condition of North Western India based on the breeds which shows less food consumption with higher efficiency conversion. The aim of this study was to identify nutritionally efficient bivoltine silkworm breeds selected from different regions of our country. Highly significant differences were found among all nutrigenetic traits of bivoltine silkworm breeds in the study. The nutritionally efficient silkworm breeds were resulted by utilizing nutrition consumption index and efficiency for conversion of ingesta/cocoon traits as the index for selection of highly promising breeds. Higher nutritional efficiency conversions were found in the bivoltine silkworm breeds on efficiency of conversion of ingesta to cocoon and shell were shortlisted during spring season. Furthermore, based on the overall nutrigenetic traits utilized as index, eight bivoltine silkworm breeds (B.con 1, B.con 4, BHR 2, ATR 16, BHR 3, CSR 50, RSJ 14 and NB4D2) were identified as having the potential for nutrition efficiency conversion and can be utilized for further breeding programme. The data from the present study advances our knowledge for the development of nutritionally efficient silkworm breeds/hybrids and their effective commercial utilization in the sericulture industry.
Influence of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Soil Physicochemical Properties and Arachis hypogea Rhizosphere Microbial Community
Authors: Oghenerume Progress , Eduok Samuel , Ita Basil , John Ofonime , Bassey Inemesit
Published: August 2020

We evaluated the effect of 4000 mg zinc oxide (ZnO, 99%, 30 nm) nanoparticle on the physicochemical and microbiological properties of organic manure amended ultisol and loam soil cultivated with Arachis hypogaea using standard methods. The results indicate varying effects on the physicochemical properties in relation to the soil type. The pH of the control ultisol at 7.85 ± 0.17 and 8.3 ± 0.12 in the amended ultisol whereas, the control loam was 7.15 ± 0.17 and 7.41 ± 0.11 in the amended soil indicating 1.06- and 1.04-times higher difference than the controls respectively.  Phosphorus concentration at 57.82 ± 0.54%, 50.81 ± 0.22% and 55.97 ± 0.04%, 59.97 ± 0.02% was 1.14 times lower in the ZnO amended ultisol and 1.07 times higher in amended loam soil compared to the respective controls. The organic matter content in the control and amended ultisol was 2.28 ± 0.32% and 0.91 ± 0.02%, 3.68 ± 0.36% and 0.36 ± 0.02% in the control and amended loam soil. The concentration of nitrate in the control ultisol was 0.05 ± 0.01% and 0.03 ± 0.01% in the amended soil. The nitrate in the control loam soil was 0.08 ± 0.01% relative to 0.02 ± 0.01% in the treated soil and these differences were significant at p = 0.05. The concentration of nutritive salts was reduced and in contrast iron, copper, exchangeable acids, exchange capacity, clay and silt increased in the amended soils. Further to this, heterotrophic ammonia and nitrate-oxidizing bacterial population were inhibited in the amended soils and denitrifying organisms were stimulated. The organisms were members of the genera Pseudomonas, Xanthobacter, Enterobacter, Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Citrobacter, Nitrosomonas, Agromyces and Rhizobium. ZnO nanoparticles altered the soil physicochemical properties which exacerbated the negative effect on microbial abundance and varied with the soil type.
Performance of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana lamk.) Varieties under Two Irrigation Scheduling of Saline Water in Central Gujarat Conditions in India
Authors: Patil L. M. , Gomkale S. R. , Roy S. S. , Mori J. R. , Kauthale V. K.
Published: August 2020

The field experimentation was carried out at Instructional Farm, BAIF Development Research Foundation, Nanodara of Ahmadabad district during 2014 to 2018 with an objective to evaluate the response of the two ber varieties (Seb and Gola) to number of irrigations on the growth and yield of ber crop. It was also intended to understand effect of saline irrigation water on soil status as irrigation water of the study location is slightly saline in nature. The study was conducted in Split Plot Design with six replications. Treatments consisted of two irrigation schedule; normal irrigation at 15 days interval and life saving irrigation at 30 days interval and two varieties (Seb and Gola). Soil and irrigation water of the study location was analyzed using standard procedures for initial and yearly status, respectively.  Two ways ANOVA was carried out using R Studio Statistics Rx 64 software. Significance levels were tested at p≤0.05. The highest plant height (326.87 cm), girth size (60.75 cm), number of secondary branches per plant (7.24), dry leaf biomass per plant (3.96 kg), dry shoot weight per plant (16.65) as well as fruits per plant (337.58), fruit weight (56.96 g), fruit yield per plant (19.43 kg) and fruit yield per ha (5400 kg) were increased significantly with normal irrigation treatment (irrigations at 15 days interval) which was significantly superior over life saving irrigation. In case of varieties, all the parameters of the growth and yield of the crop were maximum for Gola variety compared to Seb. The pH, EC and SAR were comparatively lower in soil under life saving than normal irrigation.
Mapping of Soil Micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn) in the Transition Zone of Northwestern Foothill of Shivaliks of Kathua District Using GIS
Authors: Vikas Vishaw , Sharma K. R. , Sharma Vikas , Arya Vivak M. , Bharat Rajeev
Published: August 2020

Aim: To analyze and map the soil micronutrient status in the transition zone of NW foothills of Shivaliks of Kathua Region using GIS.

Methodology: Composite surface soil samples from two hundred and six (206) locations distributed randomly due to undulated topography across the whole of the district were collected at the depth of 0-15 cms using global positioning system (GPS). Inverse distance weighting (IDW) technique was adopted to generate prediction maps of the soil properties. The process of digitization and generation of maps was carried out with ArcGIS 10.3.

Results: After soil sample analysis, the available copper content in the soil of hilly areas varies from 0.4 to 14.4 mg kg-1 with a mean value of 3.75 mg kg-1. Available Zinc content ranged from 0.25 to 5.60 mg/kg respectively. The available Manganese content of the surface soils varied between 5.60 to 78.10 mg kg-1 with a mean value of 23.97 mg kg-1. Available Iron content ranged from 11.30 to 92.00 mg/kg with a mean value of 38.57 mg kg-1. The available copper content in the soil of plain areas varies from 2.08 to 34.90 mg kg-1 with a mean value of 8.94 mg kg-1. The minimum and maximum values of available copper content lies in higher range. Available Zinc content ranged from 0.25 to 5.60 mg kg-1 respectively. According to the map, available zinc is visualized lowest in plains due to raised soil pH. The available manganese content of the surface soils varied between 2.500 to 57.40 mg/kg with a mean value of 27.03 mg kg-1. Available Iron content ranged from 0 to 66.10 mg kg-1 with a mean value of 41.68 mg kg-1.

Conclusion: The mapping was done successfully with micronutrients varying from low to high range. The technique was found to be effective in identifying the micronutrients availability throughout the study region, thereby helping policy makers to frame fertilizer distribution and application policy for future.
Review on Browntop Millet- A Forgotten Crop
Authors: Ashoka P. , Sunitha N. H.
Published: August 2020

Browntop millet is a warm season crop and it can produce heavy seeds compared to other millets. This crop grown on a variety of soils and climates. It can be used as a wild life food crop, livestock grazing crop, for erosion control, hay production and also as a food grain crop. Millets are the major food source in arid and semi-arid parts of the world. Although India is the top most producers of millets, observed a steady decline in its production and utilization. Brown top millets provide nearly all essential nutrients. Brown top millet referred as miracle or positive crop for the dry and rainfed situations. The Brown top millet is known for its rapid forage production. It is grown for several other purposes like cover crop in plantation crop for soil erosion control and for high straw production. It suppresses root-knot nematode in the soil. This millet can be recommended in daily diet, there is a need to encourage the farming community to grow this crop thus contributing in achieving nutrition security. The nutrient content of browntop millet is on par with other millets and cultivation of this crop is also easier. Hence, there is an urgent need to popularize this millet.
Oil and Agricultural Commodity Markets of Pakistan: Looking for a Preferable Trading Avenue
Authors: Tariq Fakiha , Rafique Tayyaba , Nawaz Tehseen
Published: August 2020

The primary objective of this study is to find out the impact of oil price on futures and spot markets of agricultural products in Pakistan. Secondly, the study compares the research findings to suggest less oil price sensitive market for trading agricultural products in Pakistan. Futures (1 and 2 months futures) and spot prices of rice and sugar are taken as proxies for prices of agricultural products representing respective markets. Oil price sensitivity analysis is conducted via Vector Error Correction model. Further, Granger Causality approach is used for the causality analysis. Futures (1 and 2 months futures) and spot prices of rice and sugar are taken as proxies for prices of agricultural products representing derivatives and spot markets respectively. Time series data constituting 7 variables of 60 observations is analyzed from October 2012 to October 2017. The results are then subject to comparison and discussed.
Preliminary Studies of Ca-Al-Layered Double Hydroxide (Ldh) and Its Effect on the Compressive Strength in Concrete
Authors: Donatus Archibong Ukeme , Kenneth Ojeagah , Ukuegboho Michael Christopher , Chiedu I. E. , Idemudia Obasuyi Emmanuel
Published: August 2020

This research work involved the preliminary studies of CaAl-LDHs using co precipitation method and applying it in the preparation of concrete to evaluate the compressive strength in grade 15 concrete. Slum and compressive strength test were carried out on the concrete control and concrete mixed with CaAl-LDH, Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-Ray Diffractogram (XRD) was carried out on the synthesize LDH, concrete control, and concrete mixed with LDH. From the results obtained in the work failure load test, it was observed that there was an increase by 62.60% in the compressive strength of concrete mixed with 30kg of CaAl-LDHs, the SEM micrograph also shows the increase in the density and the less porosity of the concrete mixed with CaAl-LDH which explained the increase in the compressive strength of the concrete. CaAl-LDH has therefore shows a promising effect on the increase on the compressive strength of concrete.