bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are Organic Farms Less Efficient? The Case of Estonian Dairy Farms
Authors:   Centre for Economic and Regional Studies, Budapest, Hungary, Hungarian University of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Gödöllő, Hungary, Fertő Imre , Bakucs Zoltán ,   Centre for Economic and Regional Studies, Budapest, Hungary, Óbuda University, Budapest, Hungary, Viira Ants-Hannes ,   Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Agriculture, Tartu, Estonia, Aleksandrova Olha ,   Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Agriculture, Tartu, Estonia, Luik-Lindsaar Helis ,   Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Agriculture, Tartu, Estonia, Omel Raul ,   Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Agriculture, Tartu, Estonia
Published: March 2024

The paper investigates the technical efficiency of conventional and organic dairy farms in Estonia in the period 2006‒2015 using Farm Accountancy Data Network. We analyse self-selection into organic farming using the propensity-score-matching approach and explicitly test the hypothesis that organic and conventional farms apply homogeneous technology. We find that organic farms are less efficient. However, the difference in technical efficiency between organic and conventional farms decreases substantially when the technical efficiency assessment incorporates the use of the appropriate technology. The lack of growth of technical efficiency over time indicates that there might be a lack of knowledge in organic milk production that hinders its development. Since technical efficiency increases with farm size, it is important that organic dairy farms increase their scale.
Aid, Domestic Governance, and Agricultural Growth in Developing Countries
Authors:   Central University, Accra, Ghana, Gidiglo Ferguson Korbla , Srofenyoh Francis Yao ,   Central University, Accra, Ghana, Agyei-Henaku Kofi Aaron Aboa-Offei ,   Central University, Accra, Ghana, Badu-Prah Charlotte ,   Central University, Accra, Ghana, Agyeiwaa-Afrane Akua ,   Central University, Accra, Ghana, Djokoto Justice Gameli ,   Central University, Accra, Ghana
Published: March 2024

This study departed from other agricultural aid-growth studies by measuring growth as the annual growth rate of agricultural value added and accounting for the moderating role of governance on the aid-growth effect. Using data on a panel of 117 developing countries from 1996 to 2020, aid negatively influenced agricultural growth. Governance had a negative but insignificant independent effect on growth. However, the interaction of governance with aid turned the aid-growth effect from a significant negative to a statistically insignificantly positive effect. Since the low level of governance produced the positive interaction effect, of the aid-growth relationship, escalation of (good) governance could produce a strong effect.
Multivariate Analysis of Food Security and Its Driving Factors
Authors:   Institute of Statistics, Operations Research and Mathematics, Faculty of Economics and Management, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Slovakia, Soóki Michaela , Poláková Zuzana ,   Institute of Statistics, Operations Research and Mathematics, Faculty of Economics and Management, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Slovakia, Palkovič Jozef ,   Institute of Statistics, Operations Research and Mathematics, Faculty of Economics and Management, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Slovakia, Beňovičová Kristína ,   Institute of Statistics, Operations Research and Mathematics, Faculty of Economics and Management, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Slovakia
Published: March 2024

The main objective of the presented paper was the analysis of the current state of food security in the world, segmentation of 100 selected countries and determination of its main driving factors. The analysis used 27 indicators covering 5 basic areas: agricultural production, poverty, demography, economic development, and environmental indicators. The analysis was based on data from the FAO and World Bank for the most recent available period, which was year 2020. The data dimension was reduced with the application of factor analysis, and the main driving factors of food sufficiency were determined. The result was 6 factors: technological development, economic development, agricultural production, environmental factor, and physical quality of life and environment. To group similar countries in terms of selected indicators, a cluster analysis was performed, whereby countries were grouped by similarity into three clusters. The 1st cluster consisted of the most economically developed countries, where only 2.54% of the population suffers from malnutrition. The countries in this cluster were characterized by high levels of economic development, high caloric intake of the population, and high, life expectancy. On the other hand, they recorded negative development in demographic indicators such as fertility and birth rates. The 2nd cluster included the poorest areas of the African continent, which were most endangered by direct food insufficiency (23.74% of the population). In contrast to the first cluster, these countries were characterized by low levels of economic development, high prices, and low-calorie intakes of the population, as well as low life expectancy, while on the other hand, these countries had high fertility and birth rates. The third largest cluster consisted of countries with a medium threat of food insufficiency, where 6.37% of the population suffers from malnutrition. The countries in the third cluster excelled in terms of crop and livestock production volumes, but in contrast to this, they achieved lower levels of fat, protein, and calorie intake of population.
The Relationship Between Agricultural Holdings and Municipalities
Authors:   Institute of Agricultural Economics and Information, Prague, Czech Republic, Šimpachová Pechrová Marie , Šimpach Ondřej ,   Institute of Agricultural Economics and Information, Prague, Czech Republic
Published: March 2024

The aim of the paper is to assess the differences in opinions on relation of agricultural holdings (agri-holdings) and the municipalities. Whether the relationship rating depended on the intensity of cooperation in particular area (social life, public benefit activities, ecological activities and strategic planning) was tested. The relationship was rated positively in majority of cases which helped to create social capital in the locality. Strong influence on it had sponsorship of the fire brigade (from point of view of agri-holdings). From the standpoint of municipalities, almost all activities were important. Better promotion of agri-holdings’ activities in all areas can be suggested as not all actions of agri-holdings were known to the representants of the municipality. Negative relationship was mainly due to the agri-holding damaging the environment. Hence, responsible behaviour is an important for the agri-holding reputation. The paper was supported by the Ministry of Agriculture (MZE-RO0922), Internal Research Project of IAEI no. 1117/2023.
Diagnostic contribution of diffusion-weighted imaging in liver hemangiomas
Authors: Akın Recep İsmail , Atalar Mehmet , Bozbıyık Nisa , Şeker Büşra , Yılmaz Gökhan
Published: March 2024

Objective: To evaluate the contribution of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and measure apparent diffusion coefficient values (ADC) in hepatic hemangiomas.

Material and Methods: Seventy patients with liver hemangiomas were evaluated with DWI with a b value of 800 s/mm2. ADC map was created and ADC values were measured for 70 liver masses and normal liver tissue following DWI. ADC measurements of 70 normal liver parenchyma and mean ADC values of 80 hemangiomas are performed.

Results: Eighty hemangiomas of 70 patients (50 female and 20 male) were evaluated. The mean age of the patients was 49.61±10.96 years. Hemangiomas were most frequently demonstrated at segment 7 (%28.8), segment 6 (%21.3), and least demonstrated at segment 5 (%5). While the mean ADC measurements of normal livers were 1.06±0.11 x 10-3 mm2/sn, the mean ADC values of hemangiomas were measured as 1.70±0.29 x 10-3 mm2/sn.

Conclusion: DWI and the ADC measurements seem to be useful for the diagnosis of liver hemangiomas. DWI should be routinely added to conventional magnetic resonance imaging sequences.
Complete Blood Count in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Bolat Serkan , Kablan Demet
Published: March 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system in primarily young adults. Although the exact etiology of MS is unknown, autoimmune mechanisms are thought to play a crucial role, especially with CD4+ T cells involved in the immune response. Inflammatory reactions involving T cells and macrophages are commonly observed in MS lesions. B lymphocytes, plasma cells, and antibodies also contribute to MS pathogenesis. Neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and platelets, key immune system components, play roles in inflammatory processes, but their association with MS prognosis remains inconclusive. Due to its heterogeneous nature, clinical manifestations of MS vary depending on the location of the affected central nervous system. While several potential biomarkers have been identified for MS diagnosis and monitoring, none have been universally accepted. Studies have examined complete blood count parameters in MS patients, including erythrocyte, platelet, and leukocyte populations. Changes in these parameters have been observed in MS patients compared to healthy controls and may be related to disease prognosis. For example, increased erythrocyte fragility and altered hemoglobin levels have been reported in MS patients. Leukocyte counts and ratios, such as the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, have shown associations with disease severity. Platelet activation and interaction with immune cells have also been implicated in MS pathophysiology. Nevertheless, further research is needed to fully understand the role of complete blood count parameters in MS. Identifying reliable biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis prediction would greatly enhance MS management. Moreover, these benefits could lead to substantial improvements in achieving complete recovery of patients, surpassing the focus on current symptomatic treatments.
SEZGİSEL YEME NEDİR?: BİR GÖZDEN GEÇİRME
Authors: Bostan Bendaş Didem , Hocaoğlu Çiçek
Published: March 2024

Yeme ile ilgili davranışlar genetik, çevre, duygusal durum, sosyodemografik özellikler, dini ve kültürel inançlar, medya, beden algısı gibi pek çok faktörden etkilenmektedir. Belirtildiği gibi birçok faktörden etkilenen yeme davranışının heyecan, can sıkıntısı, mutluluk, stres gibi duygusal faktörlerle yakından ilişkili olduğu görülmektedir. Günümüzde sağlıksız yeme davranışlarının yerine sağlıklı yeme davranışlarının oluşmasını sağlamada sezgisel yeme becerisinin gelişmesinin önemi üzerinde durulmakta ve sezgisel yemenin müdahale tekniği olarak kullanılması önemsenmektedir. Sezgisel yemenin, yeme bozukluklarının önlenmesinde, tedavisinde ve vücut ağırlığı yönetiminde kalori kısıtlı diyetlerin alternatifi olabileceği, ayrıca geleneksel yöntemlerle birlikte kullanılabileceği düşünülmektedir. Bu derlemede, sezgisel yeme kavramı ve bu kavramın vücut ağırlığı ve yeme bozuklukları üzerindeki etkisi hakkında literatür bilgileri sunulacaktır.
Pravna regulativa e-turizma i budućnost primene veštačke inteligencije u e-turizmu
Authors: Trifunović Ivan , Spalević Žaklina , Marković Filip , Savić Slavica
Published: March 2024

E-turizam predstavlja ključnu komponentu savremenog turizma, pružajući putnicima mogućnost online rezervacija, personalizacije putovanja, pristupa obimnom informacionom sadržaju i recenzijama drugih putnika, online plaćanja, upotrebu mobilnih aplikacija za olakšavanje putovanja, razmatranje ekološke održivosti, te primenu analitike u cilju poboljšanja poslovanja. Ova tema je od izuzetne važnosti jer jasno ilustruje kako digitalna transformacija oblikuje turističku industriju i kako kompanije uspešno prilagođavaju svoje strategije novim trendovima i mogućnostima koje donosi eturizam. Sve to zajedno omogućava putnicima da bolje planiraju i uživaju u svojim putovanjima, dok turističkim kompanijama i destinacijama pomaže da se bolje povežu sa svojim ciljnim tržištima i ostvare veći uspeh u industriji turizma.
Comparative metabolite profiling of Eleutherine bulbosa ethanol and water extracts by UPLC-MS/MS and their cytotoxic effects on T47D cells
Authors: Mutiah Roihatul , Muzazanah Zawilatul , Annisa Rahmi , Rachmawati Ermin , Fitrianingsih Avin Ainur
Published: March 2024

Eleutherine bulbosa is a plant renowned in the scientific literature for its multiple pharmacological properties. These effects are attributed to its phytochemicals, which include compounds from the naphthalene, anthraquinone, and naphthoquinone groups. The effectiveness and concentration of active biological components are greatly affected by the type of solvent selected for the extraction procedure. This study aims to compare the metabolite profiles of ethanol and water extracts from Dayak onion (E. bulbosa) and to assess their cytotoxic activities against cancer cells. Metabolite profiling was performed using an ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry instrument. The molecular formulas of the constituents were analyzed using MassLynx 4.1 software, while compound names and structures were identified through the PubChem database. The metabolite profiling revealed that the ethanol extract of E. bulbosa contained 32 compounds, while the water extract had 27. Analysis using a Venn diagram identified three common compounds in both extracts: 1,4-Naphthoquinone (C10H6O2), L-lysine sulfate (C6H16N2O6S), and Epirizole (C11H14N4O2). Cytotoxicity assays indicated that the ethanol extract of E. bulbosa exhibits low anticancer potential with an IC50 value of 202.37 μg/ml. In contrast, the water extract does not exhibit anticancer activity with an IC50 of 1,020 μg/ml. However, the ethanol extract has shown efficacy in initiating programmed cell death and interfering with the cell division process in T47D cancer cells. These findings suggest that an ethanol solvent is more adept at extracting the bioactive components of E. bulbosa, underscoring its potential in anticancer therapy development. Nonetheless, further research is essential to elucidate the activity of these phytochemicals and to evaluate their toxicity toward normal cells.
Hydrochemical and geoelectrical investigation to determine the origin and spatial distribution of the salinization of the unconfined Plio-Quaternary aquifer of Tabeditt, Southern Tunisia
Authors: Ltifi Dalanda , Mhamdi Abdelkader , Moumni Lahmadi
Published: March 2024

The expansion of irrigated agriculture and the overexploitation of groundwater in the Tabeditt region lead to a serious deterioration of the chemical quality of water. The compilation of hydrogeological and geophysical studies is essential in order to assess the quality of the Plio-Quaternary waters and to determine the origin of the salinization of these waters. In this study, hydrochemical analyses were carried out on groundwater samples in the Tabeditt region. Hydrochemical data have shown that the salinity in this area could exceed 6 g/L. The interpretation of major ion analyses demonstrates that mineralization is controlled by natural processes. The mineralization process consists of the dissolu-tion of evaporite minerals, namely gypsum, anhydrite, and halite. The geoelectrical study is carried out to obtain information about the distribution and quality of water in the Plio-Quaternary. Interpreta-tion of the resistivity models show the presence of two main zones: the first, near Tabeditt Wadi, is characterized by low values, indicating the influence of salt water in the groundwater and the second, located on the right bank of Wadi Jmal, is characterized by variable resistivity values, generally high, indicating the lateral changes in lithological facies, and the presence of fresh water. In such an arid region suffering from scarcity and degradation (or depletion) of water resources, it is important to implement a master plan that keeps under control the number of wells both known and unknown ones taping these aquifers.
Hydraulic characterization of Pwales aquifer in Malta Island preparatory for planning managed aquifer recharge (MAR) pilot plant
Authors: Caputo Maria Clementina , De Carlo Lorenzo , Turturro Antonietta Celeste , Sapiano Manuel , Mamo Julian , Balzan Oriana , Galea Luke , Schembri Michael
Published: March 2024

Whitin the aim to reduce the water demand by increasing water use efficiency and providing alternative water resources, and mainly to meet the demand of good quality irrigation water for agriculture, the Energy and Water Agency of Malta is planning to develop a Managed Aquifer Recharge pilot plant in Pwales Valley to improve the quantitative and qualitative status of the groundwater body. For this reason a detailed hydraulic characterization of the valley was carried out. Specifically, hydraulic properties of the rocks that constitute strata atop of the Pwales aquifer were determined by means of both laboratory measurements on samples and field test carried out in the studied area. The water retention and hydraulic conductivity functions, which relate the matric potential, ψ, and hydraulic conductivity, K, to the water content, θ, respectively, were measured using three experimental methods because each of them allows to obtain data points in a specific wet range. The water retention and hydraulic conductivity functions were measured on samples extracted from blocks of Upper Coralline Limestone formation, that hosts the aquifer, collected in three different quarries: Ghian Tuffieha, Mellieha and San Martin areas. The measured water retention and hydraulic conductivity data were fitted with LABROS SoilView Analysis software that allows to describe the functions and obtain the parameters which are crucial for modelling the water flow and transport processes in the critical zone. In addition, large ring infiltrometer test was carried out to determine the field saturated hydraulic conductivity, Kfs, and the average infiltration rate. Knowledge of the hydraulic characteristics of the Upper Coralline Limestone, completely missing in the scientific literature, allows developing a local groundwater-flow numerical model in order to better describe and understand how the water flows from the soil to the groundwater of the valley and visualize different environmental scenarios such as the potential effects of Managed Aquifer Recharge plant in the Pwales Coastal Groundwater Body.
Exploring the Risk Factors Associated with Video Game Addiction among Adolescent School Children in Chennai District, Tamil Nadu, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Surya BN , Eashwar VM Anantha , Palaniappan Pragadeesh , Kumar S Madhush , Narayanan A Hari , Venkatesh BN , Baalann Krishnaprasanth , Kumar U Sarath
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Video game addiction has emerged as a significant concern among adolescent children in recent years. With the widespread availability of technology and the increasing popularity of video games, a substantial number of adolescents are displaying addictive behaviours. Aim: To estimate the prevalence of video game addiction among adolescent school children in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India and find out the various risk factors associated with it. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Community Medicine, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Chengalpattu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India among 300 school children aged 10-17 years from four private schools in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India from February 2023 to June 2023. Data collection involved the Gaming Addiction Scale for Adolescents (GASA) and a pretested semistructured questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. Results: The study revealed that approximately 31.7% of the participants had video game addiction. Categorical variables were analysed using the Chi-square test, with a significance level of p <0.05. Bivariate logistic regression was utilised to determine unadjusted odds ratios, and variables with p <0.05 were included in the multivariate model to calculate adjusted odds ratios and construct 95% confidence intervals. Conclusion: Video game addiction among adolescent school children is a significant issue with multiple associated risk factors. By promoting awareness, encouraging healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering balanced lifestyles, we can effectively address video game addiction and enhance the wellbeing of adolescent school children.
Impact of Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme on Grape Beneficiary Farmers
Authors: Preethi Battu , Sasane G.K.
Published: March 2024

Agriculture in India is extremely vulnerable to incidence of extreme weather events which leads to agrarian distress. Farmers are sensitive to agricultural risks and, as a result require insurance. Climate variability and extreme weather events have become a great threat to agricultural production in India. The projected increase in droughts, floods, heat and cold waves, cyclones, extreme precipitation events will result in greater instability in food production. Grape fruit crop is extremely sensitive to climate change; year by year many farmers are indebted due to very meager yields. Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) is one such scheme which was recent crop insurance launch by Government of India to mitigate the hardship of the insured farmers against the likelihood of financial loss on account  of  crop  loss  resulting  from  adverse  weather conditions.  Grape fruit crop was taken into consideration to assess the impact of the ‘RWBCIS’ on beneficiaries.  The study was conducted in the year 2021-2022 in Nasik district of Maharashtra state. The sample consists of total 150 farmers, 75 beneficiary farmers and 75 non-beneficiary farmers of RWBCIS. With the help of tools like Crop diversification, Cropping intensity and Incremental cost benefit ratio an attempt is made to find out the impact of the RBWCIS on beneficiary farmers in comparison to non-beneficiary farmers. The results showed that there is no significant difference in crop diversification and cropping intensity between the two groups. Also, there is no noticeable difference between the creditworthiness of beneficiary and non-beneficiary farmers of RWBCIS. Incremental Cost Benefit Ratio for beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries was more or less unity. There is no noticeable impact of RWBCIS on Grape beneficiary farmers.
Effectiveness of Government’s e-Communication in Tanzania: Survey of Dar es Salaam Residents
Authors: Majula Josephine , Ng’atigwa Francis
Published: March 2024

As governments recognize the capacity of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to create a favourable socioeconomic shift for the populace, digital technologies continue to open up exciting opportunities around the world. This paper presents part of the findings of the research titled “Effectiveness of Government’s e-Communication in Tanzania: Survey of Dar es Salaam Residents.” The paper set out to explore the views on the government’s e-communication services in Tanzania from Dar es Salaam residents. The study relied on the Technology Acceptance Model, which is relevant to the study, as it shows that the majority of the respondents became more interested in e-communications services owing to the ease of use of such services. Likewise, when e-communication devices are deemed difficult by some government officials, there is a likelihood of limited or no use of such e-communication services. The study relied on a survey design, where 150 respondents from selected households in Dar es Salaam were sampled with a structured questionnaire about their knowledge of the e-communication services offered by the various government departments in Tanzania. The majority of the respondents (54%) showed that they had accessed various types of e-communications services; however, one of the drawbacks was that 46% of respondents did not take some of these services very seriously, as they believed that such services were not as efficient as they had thought. Despite the shortcomings associated with e-communications, when asked about the usefulness of e-communication services, the majority of the respondents (46%) strongly agreed that, indeed, the government’s e-communication services were critical. It can be concluded that given the wave of technological advancements sweeping across the globe, the government is supposed to strengthen ICT services and the capacity of its officials for more service delivery. This study recommends the need for an e-communication policy and strategic plan as one of the ways to improve the use and promotion of e-communication services in almost all government departments.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profile and Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase Resistance Genes in Escherichia coli from Patients in General Hospital, Karshi, Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Bassey A.P  , Ngwai Y.B  , Nkene I.H  , Tama S.C  , Igbawua I.N  , Bassey B.E
Published: March 2024

Aims: This study investigated the antimicrobial resistance profile and extended spectrum beta-lactamase resistance genes in Escherichia coli of from urine of patients sourced from General Hospital, Karshi, Abuja, Nigeria.
Study Design: Cross-sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, between August 2022 and February 2023.
Methodology: A total of 120 samples were collected from patients. Escherichia coli was isolated from the samples using standard microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was evaluated as described by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). The detection of ESBL production in E. coli isolates was carried out using double disc synergy test.  In addition, molecular detection of ESBL genes was carried out using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method.
Results: The prevalence of E. coli was 17.5% (21/120), out of which two (2) of the positive isolates (9.5%) were male, and 19 (90.5%) female. Antibiotic resistances in the isolates in decreasing order were as follows: sulphamethoxazole / trimethoprim (SXT: 81.0%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (AMC: 61.9%), ofloxacin (OFX: 66.7%), cefotaxime (CTX: 53.4%), gentamicin (CN: 42.9%), ceftriaxone (CRO: 33.3%), imipenem (IPM: 33.3%), meropenem (MOR: 42.4%), nitrofurantoin (NET: 20.3%) and ciprofloxacin (CIP: 23.8%). The commonest antibiotic resistant resistance phenotype was CIP-OFX-SXT (23.8%). Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) was observed in 90.5% (19/21) of the isolates, with the common MAR index being 0.3 (23.8%). Six of the twenty one beta-lactam resistant isolates (28.5%) were confirmed ESBL producers. The 6 ESBL positive isolates carried bla genes as follows: blaTEM (1/6, 16.7%) and blaCTX-M (1/6, 16.7%). blaSHV only was not found in any of the isolates.
Conclusion: The E. coli isolates from urine of patients in General Hospital, Karshi, Abuja, Nigeria was less resistant to ciprofloxacin, nitrofurantoin, meropenem and imipenem. This implies that the antibiotics are useful in the treatment of infection caused by E. coli. Also, ESBL-positive E. coli isolates harbored ESBL genes, with blaCTX-M and blaTEM as the most common.
Antecedent of Destination Loyalty through Tourists’ Fascination
Authors: Hadzami Muhammad Rivaldo , Roostika Ratna
Published: March 2024

This study aims to assess future behavioral intention on tourist experiences while visiting culinary destinations in Yogyakarta that serve healthy cuisine; the examined variables are destination fascination and subjective well-being as a mediating variable. The study uses a quantitative approach. Questionaries utilize seven-point Likert scale for the measurements were spreads online. The study took place in Indonesia from October to December 2023. Respondents are tourists who have tasted healthy cuisine in Yogyakarta, totaling 246. The presented hypotheses in this study were tested using AMOS software. The study found how destination fascination has a negative and significant effect on destination loyalty. Moreover, the fascination to a destination has a positive and substantial effect on an individual's subjective well-being. Subjective well-being has a positive but non-significant effect on destination loyalty and cannot serve as a mediator in the connection between destination fascination and destination loyalty.
Impact of Raw Milk Quality on Dairy Products & Payment Systems
Authors: Vekariya Yogeshkumar , Deep Ankit , Kathiriya Mital , Tellabati Rajashekhar
Published: March 2024

The trend of microbial quality of raw milk is affected by the seasonal variation in in milk production practices and ambient temperature with the season. A payment system, which includes testing for selected parameters, with subsequent rejection and/or penalties or bonuses, is considered functional to improving raw milk quality. In addition to the minimal legal requirements, milk may be graded (and paid) according to its “quality,” usually measured according to composition (fat, protein, lactose, other solids, free fatty acids), hygienic quality. Psychrotrophic microbes, particularly Pseudomonas spp., are found in the microbiota of chilled milk because they can grow at temperatures below their optimal growth temperature. Psychrotrophic counts ranging from 105 to 108 CFU/ml in refrigerated raw milk affect cheese quality, since the synthesized thermoresistant enzymes affect the nutritional value, sensory properties and texture. Therefore, stringent measures must be implemented throughout the dairy supply chain to ensure the microbial quality of raw milk is maintained at safe levels, thus safeguarding the integrity and safety of dairy products for consumers.
Effect of Educational Equity on the Quality of Education in Selected Schools in Kwimba District, Tanzania
Authors: Fulmes Edwin Z. , Mwila Prospery M. , Onyango Daniel O.
Published: March 2024

This study examined the effect of educational equity on the quality of education specifically, how the equitable distribution of resources affects quality education in public secondary schools in Kwimba district. It employed a mixed research approach with an embedded design and comprised 271 participants, including students, teachers, heads of schools, ward education officers (WEOs), and district education officers (DEOs). The study was carried out in kwimba district, Mwanza Tanzania from July,2023 to September, 2023. Both probability and nonprobability sampling techniques were used to select the participants. The data were collected through questionnaires, interviews and document reviews. The findings revealed that despite the number of challenges, the equitable distribution of resources significantly affected the attendance, retention,  and performance rate of students. The results show that equity in resources improves education through the provision of nutrition and food, fee-free programs, the equitable distribution of teaching and learning materials, the construction and rehabilitation of infrastructure, and the allocation of qualified and adequate teachers. Basing on the findings, it was concluded that to improve the quality of education in secondary schools in Kwimba district, there should be a concerted effort to ensure the equitable allocation of educational resources. There should be a collaborative effort among parents, the community and the government to ensure that the challenges that limit students from accessing school resources are minimized or eliminated.
Factors Influencing the Provision of Professional Development among Primary School Teachers in Kahama Municipality, Shinyanga Region, Tanzania
Authors: Said Amina R. , Mwila Prospery M. , Ndomba Raymond M.
Published: March 2024

Teachers are a way to enact any educational reforms since they have significant power over what is taught in the classroom. According to the research conducted by [1], it has been suggested that; to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of teachers, it is imperative to recognise the significance of professional development (PD) courses, specifically those focused on in-service education and training for primary school teachers (Inset-PST). The study examined the factors influencing the provision of professional development among primary school teachers in Kahama Municipality, Shinyanga Region, Tanzania. Under the mixed research approach, a convergent parallel research design was adopted. A questionnaire and an interview were employed, and a sample size of 112 was used. The results indicated that teachers’ competences, development of science and technology, challenges in teaching and learning, academic performance of the learner and employer needs are factors that influence the provision of professional development programmes. According to the study's results, there is a need for professional development programs for teachers in public primary schools because they are influenced by a variety of internal and external influences. To improve the delivery of high-quality education, the study recommended that educational leaders should ensure that public primary school teachers are given access to professional development programmes and actively participate in them.
Food Consumption, Purchasing and Dietary Pattern of Farm Women in Dharwad District, Karnataka State, India
Authors: Ravi Y.  , Sannapapamma K. J.  , Muktamath Vinutha , Channal Geeta , Desai Rajeshwari , Badami Sumangala
Published: March 2024

Present study was undertaken to analyze the socio-economic and nutritional status of women involved in farm activities and to know the impact of nutri-farms on food, nutrition and health security. Using 300 farm women in Chamarajanagar district. Health and nutritional status assessment, food intake, nutritional adequacy and screening for iron deficiency anaemia and KAP study on health and nutrition was conducted. Malnutrition is still one of the crucial problems in developing countries which is relationship between nutrition and health among a majority of the population. The objective of the study was dietary pattern of before and after intervention. This paper tries to analyze the food consumption and dietary pattern of women involved in farm activities and to know the impact of nutri-farms on food and nutrition security by using of 500 farm women in Dharwad district. A well-structured questionnaire was framed to gather the information on dietary pattern of the subjects was assessed by 24– hour diet recall method before and after intervention. The results revealed that, Among cereals, rice was consumed daily (90.4%) by all the families, where as food intake was observed that Pulses (67.67), milk and milk products (167.60), roots and tubers (67.80), GLV’s (47.17), other vegetables (96.47), fruits (37.33), fats and oil (17.70)  consumption is very low when compared to RDA whereas consumption of cereal was on par with the recommended dietary allowances. The mean nutrient intake of energy (1794.5 kcal), protein (36.95 g), fat (17.95 g), iron (18.98 mg) and Vitamin C(42.85 mg) were less when compared to the RDA. The results shows that all nutrients and food intake consumption was found inadequate.
Physiological Efficiency of Weeds in Rice Fallow Fields
Authors: K.Kalaichelvi
Published: March 2024

Photosynthetic rate, Transpiration rate and Stomatal Conductance is measured in different weeds during July’2020 in rice fallows using IRGA- Photosynthesis system model Lci- T. We have chosen all the weeds at flowering to maturity phase and observed the data. Among the weeds analysed Parthenium hysterophorus has recorded very high Photosynthetic rate (µ molm-2 Sec-1)and there was difference with stage also, Flowering stage (165.28) has recorded a higher photosynthetic rate followed by vegetative (123.2) and maturity phase (118.72) and found that transpiration rate also followed the same trend. Even this has recorded more than the C4 crop photosynthetic rate for example Trianthema portulacastrum which has recorded a photosynthetic rate of 21.98, which was the next highest photosynthetic rate among the weeds recorded and as well as over C4 crops too. Among the grasses Paspalum sp., Echinochloa colona (7.81µ molm-2 Sec-1)) and Cynodon dactylon (4.2µ molm-2 Sec-1)) has recorded higher photosynthetic rate. Cyperus and Cyanodonhas recorded with lesser stomatal conductance and transpiration rate but has recorded higher photosynthetic rate which can thrive better in rainfeds also. Echinochloa has more transpiration rate and stomatal conductance among grasses and this might be due to their water loving nature.  Boerhavia diffusa, Euphorbia hirta and Ruella tuberosa are recorded with lesser stomatal conductance. On critically analysing the weeds, it was observed that some weeds like Parthenium are reported with higher photosynthetic rate with lesser transpiration rate and stomatal conductance over better photosynthetic efficiency crop like maize and also this has resulted in the better withstanding ability to the water stress.  Correlation analysis showed that photosynthesis and Transpiration rate are positively correlated but weak (r=0.28) and the regression equation is (Y=4.98+4.32(x)), photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance are also positively correlated but weak (r=0.20) and the regression equation is Y= 20.36+17.04(X). Transpiration and Stomatal Conductance is positively and strongly correlated (r=0.57) and regression equation is Y=3.92+2.51(x).
Assessment of Breeding Potential of Taro (Colocasia esculenta L.) Genotypes Using D2 Analysis under Hill Zone of Karnataka
Authors: Devaraju  , Latha, G. K.  , Sangeeta  , Bhavidoddi Arun Kumar , Ravi, C. S.  , Mamatha, A.  , Heena, M. S.
Published: March 2024

Using Mahalanobis D2 statistics, the genetic diversity of 20 genotypes of taro for 21 characteristics was assessed as part of a breeding work to increase production potential. Five clusters were formed from the genotypes, indicating a significant level of genetic variation in the material being studied. With eight genotypes, Cluster I was the largest, followed by Cluster II with seven, and Cluster III with three. Each of the solitary clusters IV and V has a single genotype. The clusters that exhibit the greatest number of genotypes are indicative of limited genetic diversity. The intra-cluster distance was highest in cluster III and lowest in clusters IV and V. Clusters I and V have the highest inter-cluster distance, followed by II and V. These clusters could potentially be used as prospective genotypes for a hybridization programme. Tuber yield/plot (13%) showed the largest contribution to the overall divergence, followed by Corm yield/plant (12.20%) and Tuber yield/plant (11.43%). The finding that clusters V and III showed high cluster means for plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf breadth, leaf area, leaf area index, tuber yield per plant, tuber yield per plot, and estimated tuber yield is noteworthy. These clusters can be effectively used in hybridization programmes to obtain desired transgressive segregants.
Accessing the Performance of Promising Germplasm of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Red and Black Soil Conditionss
Authors: Sanjay H. B. , Chaturvedi S. K. , Kumar Shailendra , Singh Anshuman , Harish J.  , Lakshmeesh R  , Panwar Dileep , Manjunatha M
Published: March 2024

About 550 germplasm accessions were evaluated in Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University Jhansi Research farm for quantitative traits during rabi 2019-20, among them twenty germplasm accessions were selected based on their seed yield. During rabi 2020-21, these selected germplasm accessions are raised in red and black soil conditionss for accessing their performance through direct (variability, heritability, and genetic advance) and indirect selection parameters (correlation and path coefficient analysis). About seventeen quantitative traits were studied in both soil conditions Under red and black soil conditions, chlorophyll content, pods per plant, 100 seed weight, biological yield, and seed yield showed high Phenotypic and Genotypic Coefficient of Varience. In red soil conditions, chlorophyll content, plant height, 100 seed weight, biological yield, and seed yield showed high heritability and genetic advance, while in black soil conditions leaf area index, chlorophyll content, primary branches, and 100 seed weight showed high heritability coupled with genetic advance. By considering indirect selection parameters in the red soil conditions leaf area index, the number of primary branches and biological yield per plant were the major direct contributors to seed yield. Similarly, under black soil conditions leaf area index, leaflet size, and biological yield per plant were the major direct contributors to seed yield. By comparing the performance of twenty genotypes most of the genotypes perform well under red soil conditionss than black soil conditions.
Assessment of Off-Grid Power Plants in Nigeria: Location, Capacity, Performance and Current Status
Authors: I. A. Oke , C. O. Ahiakwo , H. N. Amadi , Ojuka O. E.
Published: March 2024

The power sector in Nigeria still struggles with significant electricity challenges resulting from the unavailability of power supply and the unreliability of the conventional national grid. The total installed capacity of off-grid plants in Nigeria is approximately a meagre 52 MW, with a combination of 67 operational mini-grids and solar home systems across the country impacting only about one million households and around five million residents out of Nigeria’s population of over 200 million people.  It has been reported that both urban and rural areas suffer the impact of power shortages and frequent blackouts. The unreliability of power supply in Nigeria has been identified as a significant problem affecting educational institutions in terms of productive learning, student residency and institutional operations, and also the overall operation of healthcare facilities as it limits access to quality healthcare services. The study examines the presence and potential of off-grid power solutions in Nigeria which present a more reliable approach to supplying electricity to users, as a deliberate response to the multiple and complex challenges in the Nigerian power systems to identify the present location, installed capacity, operational performance, and current status of off-grid power plants in Nigeria. The Geographic Information System and statistical approaches were employed. It was discovered that off-grid solutions are beginning to spread across the country on different scales. However, most rural areas in Nigeria still do not have access to electricity supply. The study encourages decentralized power generation in the country and emphasizes the need for the federal government through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to consider investing in off-grid solutions, particularly in the rural areas for socio-economic benefits.
Advancing Manufacturing Efficiency through Real-time Production Monitoring and Control Systems
Authors: Okuyelu Olanrewaju , Adaji Ojima Ojodumi , Doskenov Bakhtiyar
Published: March 2024

The advantages of both real-time production monitoring and control systems in enhancing the advancement of manufacturing efficiency cannot be overlooked. Manufacturing industries need to meet customers’ demand while still maximizing their profits via avoiding emergency shutdown of plants during production. Nonetheless, quality products with high purity level should be supplied uninterruptedly without breakage of supply chain. In recent times, failure of many of manufacturing industries to deliver their products to end users have been cited and reported. This was due to inadequate scheduling which was not being monitored via real-time production and control systems. There is need to tackle this problem which calls for the adoption of real-time production monitoring and control systems. In this paper, the concepts behind the use of real-time production monitoring and control systems were discussed. Consideration was given to how real-time production monitoring can be integrated in manufacturing. The features of real-time control systems were discussed alongside with their industrial applications in various disciplines of Engineering. Data analysis and prognostics, data collection, visualization module and data storage were identified as the relevant sequential steps in real time production monitoring in advancing manufacturing efficiency. In conclusion, the significance and importance of real-time production monitoring and control systems in advancing manufacturing efficiency have been revealed and discussed in this paper.
Sustainable Agriculture Development and Optimum Utilization of Natural Resources: Striking a Balance
Authors: Kumar Ashwini , Trivedi Ayushi , Nandeha Nirjharnee , Niveditha M P
Published: March 2024

There is a finite supply of natural resources, and unchecked exploitation may harm the ecosystem. The strategy for their sustainable use must be determined. The framework of sustainable development is used to define strategies of ongoing societal and state advancement that do not negatively impact the environment or the natural resources that will be needed for future human activities. A model that governs sustainable use takes into account the legal and strategic guidelines for the extraction of energy and natural resources. Ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources both nationally and internationally is the aim. Environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources are closely intertwined. Additionally, a healthy environment's value and the degree to which the public is educated about its preservation are linked to the preservation of the working and living environments. All areas of human endeavour see improvements in quality of life as a result of faster technical development, but increased environmental deterioration is also a potential. Consequently, in order to achieve the objectives of the society's development policy, it is imperative to incorporate the appropriate standards that would support sustainable development. This review paper is a quick response to maintain the ecosystem's equilibrium and the surrounding area.
Preparation of Smart Polymer/Carbon Nanotube Conjugates via Stimuli‐Responsive Linkages
Authors: You Y.‐Z. , Hong C.‐Y. , Pan C.‐Y.
Published: August 2007

In this paper, we modified carbon nanotubes with the thiol‐reactive species, subsequently combined the thiol‐coupling reaction and reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization to prepare temperature‐responsive PNIPAAm (poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide))‐carbon nanotube conjugates. The prepared PNIPAAm‐carbon nanotube conjugates have temperature‐responsive PNIPAAm chain, and disulfide linkages between PNIPAAm and carbon nanotube which are sensitive to bio‐stimuli such as glutathione, therefore dual‐responsive polymer‐carbon nanotube conjugates have been prepared.