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Effect of Different Irrigation Management Techniques and Planting Methods on Production and Water Use Efficiency of Maize
No full textA field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2024-25 to study on performance of maize under different irrigation schedules with different sowing dates was conducted at Agricultural College Mahanandi, ANGRAU during Rabi 2024-25 and found in this research study, furrow irrigation with different irrigation schedules was studied. It is also required to study the water management techniques such as alternate furrow irrigation and paired row furrow irrigation with the above recommended date of sowing date and irrigation scheduling. Initial soil infiltration is found to be 20.4 cm/h and infiltration capacity or constant infiltration capacity of the soil is found to be 1.2 cm/h. Permeability of the soil is found to be 1.019 x 10-6 m/s. Crop water requirement of maize is found to be 429.9 mm for entire crop period. The average irrigation water used for T1(Conventional furrow irrigation) found to be higher with 520.8 mm followed by T6 (Drip irrigation with normal planting), T3 (Skip fixed furrow irrigation), T2 (Alternate furrow irrigation), T4 (Furrow irrigation with paired row planting) and T5 (Drip irrigation with paired row planting) with 443.06, 366.27, 354.12, 332.09 and 221.52 mm respectively. However, highest Water Use Efficiency (WUE) were recorded in T5 (paired row furrow with drip irrigation with 30.34 kg ha-1mm-1. Water Use Efficiency (WUE) of T2, T3, T4 with 15.83, 14.94 and 15.76 kg ha-1mm-1 respectively is on par with T6(Drip irrigation with normal planting) with 17.69 kg ha-1mm-1. Drip irrigation systems consistently outperformed furrow-based methods in terms of both yield and water savings. T₆ (Drip irrigation with normal planting) recorded the highest grain yield (7836 kg ha⁻¹), attributable to uniform and timely moisture supply throughout the crop growth period. Conversely, T₅ (Drip irrigation with paired-row planting) achieved the maximum water use efficiency (30.34 kg ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹), despite receiving the lowest irrigation volume, highlighting its superior capacity to convert limited water into economic yield
Research Progress on the Impact of Iron Tailings Replacing Concrete Aggregates on Concrete Performance
No full textIron tailings are a high-volume solid waste generated during iron ore processing, posing considerable environmental and storage challenges. Their silica–alumina–rich composition, however, provides potential for sustainable incorporation into concrete. This review aims to evaluate the effects of using iron tailings as aggregate substitutes in concrete and to summarize recent advances in activation and modification technologies. A systematic assessment of existing experimental studies was conducted, focusing on mechanical performance, durability behavior, microstructural characteristics under various replacement levels, and activation approaches including mechanical, chemical, and microbial techniques. Evidence shows that optimal replacement ratios—20–40% for fine aggregates and 30–60% for coarse aggregates—enhance concrete density, interfacial transition zone compactness, mechanical strength, and impermeability, while also improving resistance to freeze–thaw cycles and sulfate attack. These benefits arise from micro-filling effects, interface densification, and potential secondary hydration. Excessive substitution, however, leads to poor grading, irregular particle morphology, and high water absorption, consequently reducing strength and durability. Activation technologies markedly improve the pozzolanic activity of iron tailings. Iron tailings exhibit significant potential for sustainable concrete production, contributing to solid-waste utilization and carbon reduction. Nonetheless, challenges remain regarding raw material variability, long-term durability mechanisms, and the absence of standardized guidelines for engineering practice
A Review of the Research Status and Development Trends of Photovoltaic Mounting Structures
No full textAs a key supporting structure of photovoltaic (PV) systems, the technological development of PV mounts directly impacts their power generation efficiency, stability, and service life. This paper systematically reviews the current research status and development trends of PV mounts, based on an analysis of literature from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Engineering Village, covering publications from 2000 to 2023. Our review focuses on the characteristics and application scenarios of main structural types, including fixed mounts, single-axis and dual-axis tracking mounts, and flexible mounts. It also examines the performance and research progress of related materials, including metals, fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP), and novel composites. The analysis indicates that, under favorable climatic conditions (e.g., high irradiance regions), single-axis and dual-axis tracking systems can enhance power generation efficiency by 15-30% and over 30%, respectively, compared to fixed-tilt systems. Flexible mounts demonstrate notable adaptability to complex terrains, while composite material mounts can achieve weight reductions exceeding 50% compared to traditional steel, alongside superior corrosion resistance. Future development directions for PV mounts are identified as intelligent tracking, lightweight design, environmentally sustainable materials, and adaptation to diversified application scenarios. However, this review also identifies critical research gaps, including the need for robust wind-induced vibration control and long-term durability data for flexible systems, as well as comprehensive lifecycle assessments (LCA) and recycling strategies for novel composites. By synthesizing these findings and highlighting these specific gaps, this study provides a structured reference and clear direction for future innovative development and engineering applications in PV mount technology
Finite Element Analysis of Temperature Effects on Underground Large-Diameter Concrete Cylinders Using ABAQUS
No full textWith the increasing demand for storage capacity, the diameter of silos has also been continuously increased. For this kind of large-diameter concrete cylinder, the temperature load has a great influence, especially the cylinder structure located underground, and the stress characteristics are more complicated under the influence of earth pressure and gradient temperature. This study investigates the stress distribution and deformation in underground large-diameter concrete cylinders under temperature loads using finite element analysis with ABAQUS. By simulating temperature changes through boundary conditions, the research identifies critical stress patterns, particularly the significant hoop tensile stress observed during temperature decreases, which peaks at 2.75 MPa. These findings emphasize the need for enhanced tensile capacity in specific regions of the structure. The results provide valuable insights for optimizing the design and ensuring the structural integrity of underground concrete cylinders under varying thermal conditions
Assessing the Immunomodulatory Potential of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) Supplementation in Sendai Virus-infected Wistar Rats
No full textOyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are rich in bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, terpenoids, and polyphenols. These compounds are known for their immunomodulatory properties and antioxidant activity, which helps protect cells from damage caused by infections and free radicals, which are linked to aging and chronic diseases. This study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) supplementation in Wistar rats infected with Sendai virus. The study evaluated the impact of the mushroom supplement (administered at 25%, 50%, and 75% inclusion rates) on hematological parameters, liver and kidney function, CD4 counts, viral load, and histopathological changes in the liver, kidney, heart, and lungs. Oyster mushroom supplementation demonstrated varying effects on hematological parameters, with groups Group 3 (50% mushroom) showed the highest RBC count before infection (6.38 ± 0.01 x 1012/L). However, Group 4 (75% mushroom) exhibited a significant decrease in RBC count post-infection. Liver and kidney function tests revealed significant increases in liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP) and some kidney function markers (total bilirubin, creatinine) in infected rats, indicating organ damage. However, CD4 counts significantly increased in all supplemented groups post-treatment, suggesting enhanced immune recovery with Group 4 (75% mushroom) exhibiting the most substantial increase (990.33 ± 1.76 cells/µL). Also, the group receiving the highest dose of mushroom supplement Group 4 (75% mushroom) exhibited the most significant reduction in viral load post-treatment (2277615.6667 ± 1138809.50 copies/mL). Histological analysis revealed varying degrees of inflammation and tissue damage in the liver, kidney, heart, and lungs of infected rats. While the mushroom supplement did not completely prevent these pathological changes, it appeared to mitigate some of the tissue damage, particularly in the group receiving the highest dose. These findings suggest that oyster mushroom supplementation may have some beneficial effects on immune function and viral load reduction in Sendai virus-infected rats. However, further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and to investigate the long-term implications of mushroom supplementation in the context of viral infections
Building Water-security Solutions for Pacific Island Communities
No full textPacific Island Communities are beset with serious water security expectations. Climate change, limited freshwater resources, and various economic constraints lead to challenges, requiring creative and sustainable water security solutions for PICs. In assessing sustainable water security solutions for PICs, we emphasized the combination of traditional systems and practices with modern technology (rainwater harvesting, and decentralized or community-owned desalination utility investment). For the study we employed a mixed-methods approach to include qualitative community consultation with quantitative hydraulic modelling. Five PICs were selected (Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu). Five hundred households were included in data gathering as well as fifty key informants. Overall, 75% of rural-relied upon self-supplied water for their basic usage. If you lived in a community with recognized seasonal water shortages, you were still subjected to make due. Findings identified the advantages of community-driven rainwater harvesting systems, the distributed network modeled using EPANET also gave hope to alternatives and resilience. Suggested hybrid solutions and focus on capacity building bolstered the urgency of regional collaboration for PICs to champion action. Hybrid solutions address commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6) by 2030 (for universal access to water)
Determinants of Adoption of Improved Bread Wheat Varieties among Smallholder Farmers in Awbare District, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia
No full textWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important cereal crops grown in the Awbare district, primarily to enhance household income and ensure food security. This study aimed to assess the adoption status and identify the factors influencing the adoption of improved bread wheat varieties in the Awbare district, located in the Somali Regional State. To conduct this study, 160 randomly selected households were interviewed face-to-face. Additionally, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were utilized to supplement the data gathered from individual households. Quantitative data analysis methods, including descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression models, were employed alongside qualitative data analysis. Of the total respondents, 71 (44.3%) were adopters of improved wheat varieties, while 89 (55.6%) were non-adopters. The binary logistic regression results indicated that factors such as farm size, access to extension services, and farmers\u27 perceptions of wheat yield positively and significantly influenced the adoption of at least one of the three recommended varieties. Conversely, variables such as sex, age, distance from the market, and distance from the development agent’s office had a negative and significant impact on the adoption of improved bread wheat varieties. This study reveals that the agricultural extension service is a significant barrier to improving bread wheat production. An effective extension program connecting stakeholders is essential for encouraging the adoption of better wheat varieties. The findings show that larger farms are more likely to adopt these varieties, highlighting the need for research and extension agencies to support smaller farmers with appropriate technologies. Sustaining the adoption of wheat varieties demands ongoing focus on the factors affecting adoption
Circular Economy towards Sustainable Development: A Review of U.S., E.U., and China’s Polices
No full textThe “circular economy” is a concept embraced by policymakers in the European Union and China. It represents a recognition of growing global environmental challenges, including climate change, and the externalities costs of waste. In this review paper, the authors compare the nascent policy efforts to define and operationalize the circular economy in the EU, China, and the United States (US), the major global economies. We begin by comparing how each entity defines circular economy, finding widely varying and ambiguous concepts, then turn to macro-level or economy-wide policies. Here we find notable efforts to spread principles. In the EU, such efforts are taking the form of new global standards and regulations, while in China they are in the form of goals for industrial waste reduction at the provincial level. The US is notable for its lack of action at the national level. The real activity in the US around circular economy transformation appears to be happening at the meso - or industry-level. The authors compared policies and strategies of circular economy and challenges, we find out that the E.U. has adopted the circular economy since 1950 and are way ahead the U.S. and China. I therefore, suggest recommendations for international cooperation among U.S, E.U. and China to promote circular economy in these regions and; spreading circular concepts to ensure adequate societal support to accept the consumption changes required
Exploring Student Perspectives on Foreign Language Programs in Higher Education: A Case Study of the University of Zambia
No full textThis study investigates the attitudes and perceptions of University of Zambia (UNZA) students towards learning French and Chinese, focusing on how these languages align with their academic and career aspirations. The research aims to identify the factors influencing students\u27 language choices, including their perceptions of the economic and cultural value of these languages, the level of institutional support, and their awareness of language courses offered at the university. Specifically, the study addresses four key objectives: 1) to assess students\u27 awareness of French and Chinese courses; 2) to explore the reasons behind their language preferences; 3) to evaluate students\u27 attitudes towards both languages; and 4) to assess the effectiveness of university strategies in increasing enrollment in language courses. The study’s population consisted of 30 students enrolled in French and Chinese courses at UNZA, with equal representation (15 students per language). The students were purposively selected using stratified purposive sampling to ensure equal representation from different academic years. Additionally, two faculty members involved in language instruction participated in qualitative interviews. Data were collected through interviews with the faculty members and focus group discussions with students. The data were analyzed thematically to identify key themes and patterns. The findings indicate that while there is significant interest in learning Chinese, primarily due to career prospects linked to China\u27s growing economic influence, French is viewed as less valuable in terms of immediate career opportunities. Students cited the increasing presence of Chinese businesses and available scholarships as key motivators for learning Chinese. In contrast, French was seen as important for international diplomacy and regional integration, but the limited visibility of French courses and perceived lack of economic return deterred many students. Faculty members highlighted the challenges in increasing French course enrollment, noting low awareness and insufficient promotional efforts. In contrast, Chinese language courses benefited from strong institutional support, including scholarships and partnerships with the Confucius Institute, which significantly contributed to increased interest and enrollment. This study emphasizes the role of institutional initiatives in shaping language learning choices and underscores the need for more targeted marketing and strategic promotion of French courses to better compete with the growing demand for Chinese language skills. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on foreign language education in Africa, particularly in the context of global economic shifts and the increasing importance of language skills in international trade and diplomacy
Estimation of Evaporation Using Long Short Term Memory and Gated Recurrent Unit Based Neural Network
No full textThis study presents the comparison of conventional Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and advanced neural networks to predict weekly potential evaporation for Anand, Gujarat, India, which comes under the subtropical climatic zone. Recently, many advanced deep neural structures like Long Short Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) have been introduced that have excellent prediction accuracy. Climate data such as bright sunshine hours, rainfall, wind speed, maximum and minimum temperature, and maximum and minimum relative humidity have been used to train and test the conventional and advanced neural network models. A comparison was made for the estimation of evaporation predicted by these models. The performance results show that deep neural network models with advanced structures like LSTM and GRU have performed better in terms of Root Mean Square Error and correlation coefficient and are able to learn the events very well in comparison to conventional neural network structures