bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Case studies of rural electric cooperatives' experiences with bioenergy.
Authors: Whitman C. E. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter first introduces rural electric cooperatives in the USA and their use of bioenergy, and then shares two cooperatives' experiences with biofuels (biodiesel) and biopower (biomass-to-electricity). It is shown that there are still some practical cost, availability and performance constraints to the widespread use of bioenergy by cooperatives. In both cases, it is market barriers that pose the biggest challenges.
Turkey's foreign trade position.
Authors: Burrell A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter describes Turkey's (i) total merchandise trade and balance of payments; (ii) trade in agricultural products, particularly with the EU; (iii) agricultural trade policy measures and World Trade Organization commitments; and (iv) agricultural trade arrangements with the EU. It is concluded that Turkey is a medium-sized country in agricultural trade terms, and it is therefore not surprising that it has had various differences of opinion with its agricultural trading partners and competitors.
Opportunities, threats and challenges.
Authors: Burrell A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter synthesizes the findings of the book, in particular drawing on the conclusions and implications of the previous two chapters. Its aim is not to produce a comprehensive list of opportunities, threats and challenges, in relation to agriculture, food and rural areas, that would arise from Turkish accession but rather to shed light on some of the questions that existing EU member states are inevitably asking when considering the prospect of Turkey as a member. These questions include: how would Turkey's entry benefit the European project that has been under development for the last 50 years? How might member states individually and collectively gain in concrete terms? How might Turkey's entry threaten what has already been achieved, or what it is hoped will be achieved in the future? And what will be the most difficult challenges ahead, in the specific areas of interest addressed by this book, as negotiations bring Turkish accession closer?
Periphyton dynamics and influencing factors.
Authors: Vermaat J. E. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Biomass and productivity of periphyton communities vary greatly over short distances and time spans, because constituent taxa can respond rapidly to changes in biotic and abiotic factors through colonization from the surrounding water and through growth. Emphasis is given on the periphyton of lake littorals and similar freshwater habitats with limited flow, although citations will be made across these divides when necessary. The development of a typical, though non-existent, periphyton community through time is presented, including the concomitant changes in composition. The major factors (i.e., colonization, attachment, growth, dislodgement and seasonality) that affect or modulate this pattern are discussed. Abiotic and biotic interactions are discussed separately although they interact in a complex fashion in the real world. The primary abiotic factors include light, temperature, nutrients and dissolved inorganic carbon. The biotic interactions covered here are substrate specificity: host-periphyton interactions and grazing. Finally, the spatial patterns and the modelling of periphyton dynamics are discussed.
Similarities between microbial and periphytic biofilms in aquaculture systems.
Authors: Verdegem M. C. J. , Eding E. H. , Sereti V. , Munibi R. N. , Santacruz-Reyes R. A. , Dam A. A. van 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This paper discusses the similarities between biofilms and periphyton mats in aquaculture systems. The structure of both biofilms and periphyton mats is briefly reviewed, the process of ammonia removal is explained and quantified, solid trapping and detachment from films and mats are described and the possible impact on the oxygen budget in culture systems is examined. In addition, the performance of a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) using a sedimentation tank and trickling biofilter is compared to the functioning of a periphyton-based RAS.
Research on periphyton-based aquaculture in India.
Authors: Keshavanath P. , Gangadhar B. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This review presents the results of periphyton-based aquaculture studies in India, and is divided into 8 sections. Following a brief introduction, the second section summarizes the results of the studies on plankton and periphyton productivity in terms of density and biomass. The third section discusses the results of fish production obtained in grow-out studies which aimed to evaluate the substrates, to compare fed and non-fed systems, and to standardize fish stocking density and the use of substrates in nursery rearing. The results of the studies on the utility of bacterial biofilm in fish health are summarized in the fourth section, and the effect of substrates on water quality parameters are presented in the fifth section. The information available on the digestibility of periphyton and the economics of periphyton-based fish culture using sugarcane bagasse as a substrate are presented on the sixth and seventh sections. The conclusion forms the last part of the review.
Periphyton-based cage aquaculture.
Authors: Huchette S. M. H. , Beveridge M. C. M. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

There are two types of aquaculture rearing system: land-based and water-based. The former includes ponds, raceways and tanks while the latter comprises enclosures, pens and cages. Cage is a rearing system enclosed on the bottom as well as the sides by wooden, mesh or more commonly net screens. This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of cage aquaculture. Periphyton-based aquaculture is confined to the rearing of herbivores, tropical fishes and the techniques have greatest potential in subsistence type aquaculture. Periphyton-based cage aquaculture was not found to be economically viable, only a limited range of cage technologies (floating cages), species (tilapias) and production scenarios (high stocking biomass, large fish; intermediate stocking density and intermediate fish size) were investigated. A much cheaper fixed cage design is proposed. Maximization of periphyton production is achieved by providing as much substrate as possible in the upper 0.5 m or so of the cage. Further work is required to demonstrate that periphyton-based cage aquaculture is economically viable.
General characteristics of the damage to forest ecosystems in Russia caused by industrial pollution.
Authors: Vassilieva N. P. , Gytarsky M. L. , Karaban R. T. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Industrial emissions cause local damage to forests in the vicinity of large enterprises in various parts of Russia. The area of possible forest decline in the country attributable to air pollution is probably about 1.3 million hectares. Non-ferrous metallurgy and power generation are the major sources of phytotoxic atmospheric emissions. The main method of forest vitality assessment that is applied over highly polluted regions of the country consists of monitoring, although a number of different forest monitoring systems exist. No significant improvement in forest vitality in damaged areas is expected in the near future.
Impact of air pollution on the forests of Central and Eastern Europe.
Authors: Vancura K. , Raben G. , Gorzelak A. , Mikulowski M. , Caboun V. , Oleksyn J. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Over the past 50 yr, there has been an unprecedented deterioration of the environment of Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. Air pollutants from fossil fuel combustion and heavy industry threaten productivity and in some places the future survival of forests. Political changes at the end of the 1980s were followed by economic transformations and significant declines in pollutant emissions. The decline in emissions was particularly noticeable (more than 50% in some countries) for sulfur dioxide. However, reductions in the atmospheric concentrations of toxic gases have not eliminated local and regional forest declines or the existence of pollution 'hot spots' with average daily concentrations of SO2 up to 1000 µg m-3. Changes in defoliation levels have not followed reductions in pollutant emissions and remain high throughout the region. Imbalanced nutrition is an important factor affecting tree health and reducing the resistance of forest ecosystems to combinations of other stresses. The reasons for the lack of a direct relationship between regional pollution loads and tree crown condition are uncertain and need further investigation. A new type of intensive monitoring (UN-ECE level II) should provide regional information about the ecological risks facing forest ecosystems, and should also lead to recommendations for forest management in areas impacted by air pollution. In Belarus, the Russian Federation and Ukraine, over 3.5 million hectares of forests were affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, resulting in the withdrawal of the wood and secondary products from the market and up to 10 times higher than normal costs of forest operations.
The future for forests in heavily polluted regions.
Authors: Innes J. L. , Oleksyn J. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Air pollution has caused the degradation or loss of forests in several heavily polluted regions. In North America and Western Europe, badly affected areas are now being reclaimed. In Eastern Europe and Russia, problems continue, and affected areas are increasing. The experience gained from reclamation work in Europe and North America could usefully be applied to other regions. The greatest limitation is the availability of financial resources, with the restoration of degraded forests having low priority in many areas. Priorities need to be set for reclaiming the most affected areas. Effects-based approaches, particularly critical loads and levels, represent a suitable means by which the benefits to be gained from emission reductions can be maximized. In future, ecological risk analyses need to take into account all the possible anthropogenic impacts on forests, and should not consider pollution in isolation.
Basic genetics.
Authors: Murray B. G. , Young A. G. , Boyle T. J. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter briefly outlines the structure, function and organization of plant genes and genomes and introduces the basic processes involved in the replication and recombination of the genetic material. An understanding of these processes leads to an appreciation of how they function in the transmission of biological information. Most of the processes ensure that information is transmitted unchanged from cell to cell and from parent to progeny. However, mutations, heritable alterations at the gene and chromosome levels, provide the raw material for evolutionary change in populations.
Mating systems.
Authors: Boshier D. H. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Patterns of mating vary with the reproductive biology and spatial structure of a species, and combine to influence levels and dynamics of genetic diversity. Knowledge of all aspects of a species' mating system is necessary to understand the distribution of genetic variation between individuals, gene flow within and between populations, what effect human influence may have on these and, therefore, how to best conserve and utilize this variation. This chapter covers the basic processes of tree reproductive biology (sexual systems, incompatibility mechanisms, flowering patterns, pollination processes), their integration to produce observed mating patterns in both temperate and tropical species and some of the methods of quantifying mating systems. Trees are shown to be predominantly outcrossed, but in some species a variety of conditions may lead to a degree of selfing or inbreeding owing to related matings. Abnormal levels of inbreeding may have immediate implications for seed collection, and ex situ conservation strategies, while their long term maintenance may lead to losses of diversity with longer term adaptive consequences.
Economics and conserving forest genetic diversity.
Authors: McNeely J. A. , Vorhies F. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Although biodiversity conservation may be viewed by some policy makers or stakeholders as desirable due to potential future benefits, such benefits may not be obvious to those who are most directly utilizing the forest. In some cases, market pressures and government policies drive local people to use forests unsustainably and thus to threaten forest genetic resources. Also, if conservation results in some stakeholders forgoing some immediate benefits that they would otherwise reasonably expect to enjoy, then some form of compensation for their opportunity costs might be necessary. Clearly, the conservation of biodiversity including genetic diversity involves an economic dimension. Thus, an understanding of basic economic principles is essential to any effort in conserving forest genetic resources.
Australia: contracting to prevent land degradation: Landcare, a success story.
Authors: Webb T. , Cary J. , Campbell A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the contracting of the Tod River Catchment Salinity and Water Quality Management Project (one of the projects funded under the 'Accelerated Regional Implementation of the Natural Heritage Trust in South Australia') to the Tod River Catchment Landcare Group. The impact of the project and the sustainability and replicability of some of the changes brought about through the project are discussed.
USA-Illinois: contracting for precision agricultural services.
Authors: Swanson B. E. , Mohamed Samy Mohamed Samy , O'Rourke P. D. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter deals with the privatization of the agricultural technology transfer system in Illinois, USA, as private sector firms and farmer cooperatives incrementally hired Certified Crop Advisers to provide technical advice on precision agriculture. The adoption of precision technology by Illinois farmers is examined. Lessons learned from Illinois' experience are discussed.
Colombia: a semi-private coffee-growers contracting system.
Authors: Rodríguez R. , Rodríguez T. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter is about the technical assistance contracting arrangement entered into by two levels of government (municipal and national) and the provincial coffee growers committee, in Páramo municipality, Santander, Colombia. The impact of the contracting arrangement and the sustainability and replicability of the changes observed in the new contracting system are discussed. Lessons learned are then outlined.
Trinidad & Tobago: contracting for extension communications services - the Hibiscus Mealy Bug information campaign.
Authors: Seepersad J. , Ganpat W. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter discusses the experiences of the Ministry of Agriculture in Trinidad and Tobago in using commercial mass media agencies to produce and disseminate extension messages on the identification and control of the Pink Hibiscus Mealy Bug. The impact, sustainability, and replicability of the extension arrangement are discussed, as well as the lessons learned from the case.
Prospects for sugar in the WTO and FTAA trade negotiations.
Authors: McNiel D. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter speculates on what may happen to sugar in future multilateral trade negotiations under the auspices of the World Trade Organization, and during the ongoing negotiations of the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA). It also offers views on whether the Millennium Round of world trade negotiations and the FTAA negotiations will lead to real changes in US sugar policies.
Australia's sugar industry: operating in a free-market environment.
Authors: Sheales T. C. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter provides insights into the workings of Australia's sugar industry. It also looks into the distorted market in which the industry operates, and explores the benefits that a freer trade can bring. Also presented is an overview of the evolution of Australian sugar policy, from intervention towards deregulation. Trends in sugar production, milling, refining, marketing, consumption, and trade are discussed as well. The chapter concludes with an outlook for Australian sugar.
The Indonesian sugar industry: prospects toward the twenty-first century.
Authors: Barichello R. R. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter begins with a review of the situation in Indonesia's sugar industry and the changes that have taken place in the country's economic environment. It then turns to previous sugar-industry policies, policy reforms, and the profitability of sugar (especially within the island of Java). It concludes with a discussion on the most likely future of Indonesian sugar-trade flows.
Building alliances for liberalization and reform of sugar policies globally.
Authors: Males W. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

The development and raison d'être of the Global Alliance for Sugar Trade Reform and Liberalization is considered in this chapter in the context of the Cairns Group, and parallels between the Cairns Group and Global Alliance positions in the World Trade Organization negotiations are drawn. This chapter further identifies similarities between the Cairns Group and Global Alliance and the broad negotiating mandate tabled in Geneva by the USA.
Biocontrol of potato bacterial wilt in Kenya.
Authors: Smith J. , Murimi K. , Gouws R. , Saddler G. S. , Trigalet A. , Simons S. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter discusses the in-country evaluation and environmental impact assessment of the application of biological control against potato bacterial wilt (caused by Ralstonia solanacearum) in Kenya.
Developing and marketing of a Salmonella-specific DNA diagnostic kit in Southern Africa.
Authors: Gopo J. M. , Baros E. , Ven Kent A. A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter describes the value of a Salmonella-specific DNA probe (Sal-15, 2.46 kb) in the rapid routine detection and diagnosis of Salmonella spp. in the environment, foods, beverages, feeds, water and human and veterinary disease outbreaks. The cost-effectiveness, commercial availability and benefits of this method are discussed.
Globalization and access to biotechnology-derived health care products: a view from Egypt.
Authors: Eldawy M. A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This chapter reviews the use of biotechnology in developing drugs and foods with health claims, and some safety and ethical considerations. The role of bioinformatics, pharmacogenomics, proteomics, nanotechnology approaches, molecular modelling, customized medicine and pharming industry in drug development is described. The impact of globalization and cost of developing biotechnology-derived health care products on affordability and access of these products in Egypt is discussed.
The current situation and development priorities for grain postharvest technology in China.
Authors: Cheng ChuanXiu Cheng ChuanXiu , Li FuJun Li FuJun , Tan BengAng Tan BengAng 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This paper describes the current status of China's grain postharvest technology, focusing on transport and storage. Problems encountered and the priorities in the industry are also discussed. After 20 years of reform and the opening-up policy, Chinese agriculture and the rural economy have made great achievements attracting worldwide attention. In 1999, Chinese grain production reached 508 million tonnes, accounting for almost a quarter of the world total and making China the world's leading grain-producing country. Agricultural production in China has gone from a history of long-term deficiency of the main agricultural commodities to a basic balance between supply and demand, with even some surplus in good years, and relative overproduction within certain periods, localities and seasons. In the past few years, the major concerns of the central authorities and all the governments at local level are to help farmers sell their grain and increase their incomes. At the same time as the increases in grain purchases, storage, transportation and processing ability, the provision of advanced equipment, the upgrading of the postharvest technology, as well as the training of postharvest managers and technical specialists, are also among the government's important commitments.
Host-finding ability of Lariophagus distinguendus (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), a potential natural enemy for the biological control of stored product pest beetles.
Authors: Steidle J. L. M. , Prozell S. , Schöller M. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

The host-finding ability of L. distinguendus was studied. In a silo-bin and a flat storage grain box, the parasitoids were able to find and parasitize Sitophilus granarius (reared on the grains of wheat cv. Batis) located up to 4 m vertically and horizontally from the release point. This demonstrates that the host-finding ability of L. distinguendus is sufficient for the control of pests under realistic conditions of application.
Critical issues in the development and interpretation of pest monitoring programmes for food processing facilities.
Authors: Campbell J. F. , Prabhakaran S. , Schneider B. , Arbogast R. T. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Pest management in commercial food processing facilities such as flour mills continues to rely heavily on methyl bromide fumigations. The pending loss of this fumigant has triggered a great deal of interest in developing alternative strategies, but the lack of effective monitoring programmes and data on pest population trends has hampered their development. The foundation of a good monitoring programme is an understanding of pest population dynamics, spatial distribution and behaviour. Here we discuss some of the theoretical and practical issues encountered in developing a monitoring programme for the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, in commercial flour mills. The focus is on issues related to understanding pest population rebound after whole structure treatments such as fumigation. These issues are also likely to be applicable to the development of integrated pest management programmes for food processing, warehouse and retail facilities in general.
Commercialisation of a species-identifying automated stored-product insect monitoring system.
Authors: Shuman D. , Epsky N. D. , Crompton R. D. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

The world's first commercially available, automated, insect-monitoring system, the Electronic Grain Probe Insect Counter (EGPIC), provides real-time data indicative of infestation levels in stored products. The "smart" grain probe circuitry analyses and transmits key components of the infrared sensor output signal that enable the central system computer to discriminate insect species and count only insects that fall through the infrared beam. When used with temperature data also provided by the probe, the number and identity of detected insects can help managers to estimate population densities and make control decisions without extraneous worker entries into grain bins. OPI Systems, Calgary, Canada, has integrated EGPIC into its StorMax automated stored-product management system to provide a tool which can help preserve grain quality while reducing fumigations, enhancing the viability of pesticide alternatives, and providing rapid and safe control-efficacy feedback.
Biology of Apanteles carpatus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a parasitoid of tineid moths (Lepidoptera: Tineidae).
Authors: Plarre R. , Balnuweit O. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

The wasp A. carpatus is a solitary koinobiont endoparasitoid of Tineola bisselliella. A. carpatus can complete development in all larval stages of T. bisselliella. However, when given a choice, older larval host stages of the webbing clothes moth are preferred for oviposition. Intraspecific competition for resources and superparasitism reduces the reproductive success of the parasitoid. Nevertheless, A. carpatus is an ideal candidate for biological control of tineid moths in households and museums.