Marketing Chain Research Articles

Understanding Uncertainty in Market-Mediated Responses to US Oilseed Biodiesel Demand: Sensitivity of ILUC Emission Estimates to GLOBIOM Parametric Uncertainty.

The life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of biofuels depend on uncertain estimates of induced land use change (ILUC) and subsequent emissions from carbon stock changes. Demand for oilseed-based biofuels is associated with particularly complex market and supply chain dynamics, which must be considered. Using the global partial equilibrium model GLOBIOM, this study explores the uncertainty in market-mediated impacts and ILUC-related emissions from increasing demand for soybean biodiesel in the United States in the period 2020-2050. A one-at-a-time (OAT) analysis and a Monte Carlo (MC) analysis are performed to assess the sensitivity of modeled ILUC-GHG emissions intensities (gCO2e/MJ) to varying key economic and biophysical model parameters. Additionally, the influence of the approach on the simulation of future ILUC effects is explored using two alternative ILUC-GHG metrics: a comparative-static approach for 2030 and a recursive-dynamic approach using model outputs through 2050. We find that projected ILUC-GHG values largely vary based on which vegetable oils replace diverted soybean oil, market responses to coproducts, and the carbon content of land converted for agricultural use. These are all, in turn, subject to decision uncertainty through the choice of the modeling approach and the time horizon considered for each ILUC-GHG metric. Given the longer simulation period, ILUC-GHG emission uncertainty ranges increase under the recursive-dynamic approach (42.4 ± 25.9 gCO2e/MJ) compared to the comparative-static approach (40.8 ± 20.5 gCO2e/MJ). The combination of MC analysis with other techniques such as Bayesian Additive Regression Trees (BART) is powerful for understanding model behavior and clarifying the sensitivity of market responses, ILUC, and associated GHG emissions to specific model parameters when simulated with global economic models. The BART reveals that biophysical parameters generate more linear ILUC-GHG responses to changes in assumed parameter values while changes in economic parameters lead to more nonlinear ILUC-GHG results as multiple effects at the interplay of food, feed, and fuel uses overlap. The choice of the recursive-dynamic metric allows capturing the longer-term evolution of ILUC while generating additional uncertainties derived from the baseline definition.

Complexity Analysis and Control of Output Competition in a Closed-Loop Supply Chain of Cross-Border E-Commerce Under Different Logistics Modes Considering Chain-to-Chain Information Asymmetry

To investigate the dynamic complexity of chain-to-chain output decisions in a closed-loop supply chain system of cross-border e-commerce (CBEC), this study decomposes the system into four product–market (PM) chains, based on the e-commerce platform’s information-sharing strategy and the manufacturer’s selected logistics mode (direct mail or bonded warehouse). By combining game theory with complex systems theory, discrete dynamic models for output competition among PM chains under four scenarios are constructed. The Nash equilibrium solution and stability conditions of the models are derived according to the principles of nonlinear dynamics. The stability of the model under the four scenarios, as well as the impacts of the initial output level and comprehensive tax rates on the stability and stability control of the system, are analyzed using numerical simulation methods. Our findings suggest that maintaining system stability requires controlling the initial output levels, the output adjustment speeds, and tariff rates to remain within specific thresholds. When these thresholds are exceeded, the entropy value of the model increases, and the system outputs decisions to enter a chaotic or uncontrollable state via period-doubling bifurcations. When the output adjustment speed of the four PM chains is high, the direct-mail logistics mode exhibits greater stability. Furthermore, under increased tariff rates for CBEC, the bonded warehouse mode has a stronger ability to maintain stability in system output decisions. Conversely, when the general import tax rate increases, the direct-mail mode demonstrates better stability. Regardless of the logistics mode, the information-sharing strategy can enhance the stability of system output decisions, while increased e-commerce platform commission rates tend to reduce stability. Interestingly, the use of a non-information-sharing strategy and the direct-mail logistics mode may be more conducive to increasing the profit levels of overseas manufacturers. Finally, the delayed feedback control method can effectively reduce the entropy value, suppress chaotic phenomena in the system, and restore stability to output decisions from a fluctuating state.

Active and Intelligent Packaging Technology for Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha)

During long marketing chain, Hilsa rapidly lose quality even in chilled condition. When purchase, consumers often get confused to differentiate between stale and fresh Hilsa. Four different active packages; namely, G1 (commercial oxygen absorber + nisin), G2 (commercial oxygen absorber + chitosan), G3 (glucose oxidase + nisin), and G4 (glucose oxidase + chitosan) were manufactured and tested to overcome these troubles. In case of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content, G3 had lowest TBARS value followed by G4, G1 and G2, while control samples had the highest TBARS value. In regard to protein retention, all active packagings showed higher protein retention than control. Bacterial load was highest (4.87 log CFU/g) in control samples while active packagings had 2.29-3.96 log CFU/g. In case of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content, G3 had minimum TVB-N content followed by G4, G1 and G2, while control samples had the highest TVB-N content. Phenol red dyed paper strips, which were used as intelligent indicator, did not change bright orange colour in active packages while turned into yellow and pale yellow in control and unacceptable samples, respectively. Active packagings were able to keep quality of Hilsa good for at least 28 days. Described active packagings technologies should be applied to enhance shelf-life of fishery products.

Trends and Drivers of Avocado Production in Ethiopia: A Review

Global avocado production has seen a significant increase over the past few decades. The area harvested and production quantities have grown substantially, reflecting the rising demand for avocados worldwide. In Ethiopia, avocado production has been experiencing significant growth and the Ethiopian government, in collaboration with international organizations has been working intensively for avocado crop development in the country. These efforts have led to an increase in both the area under cultivation, production and productivity. The data from Food and Agricultural Organization indicated that the area under avocado cultivation in Ethiopia was 9,754 ha in 2000 and through up and downward fluctuations, substantial jump were seen in 2020 hitting 30,588 ha. For about more than a decade from 2000-2013, the volume of avocado production reveals a steady increase and the most significant growth were observed from 2016-2020, with production rising to 81,431.76 metric tons in 2017 and reaching 245,335.63 metric tons in 2020. The productivity of avocado in Ethiopia has experienced notable fluctuations in the last two decades. Even though there was a slight decline in subsequent years, the current productivity 5.8tons per hectare remained relatively high compared to the early 2010s. Favorable agro-ecological conditions, growing domestic demand, and government initiatives to promote and produce, high-yield, disease-resistant varieties, nutritional value, development of export markets, establishment of different processing factories in different parts of Ethiopia, government initiative and international support are factors responsible for expansion and development of avocado crop in Ethiopia. However, challenges such as limited access to quality seeds and planting materials, insufficient irrigation systems, very weak market chains, climate change, root rot and pests, low agronomic practices, lack of market and price information, perishability nature of the crop, lack of proper storage, weak access to transportation and extension services still need to be addressed. Addressing the issues, the future of avocado production and productivity in Ethiopia look promising and positive trends, with the potential to contribute significantly to the food security and economic development.

THE BOLIVIAN ORGANIC QUINOA IN THE FAIRTRADE MARKET, IMPLICATIONS FOR THE WEAKEST LINK IN THE VALUE CHAIN: SMALL-SCALE FARMERS

<p><strong>Background: </strong>The fair trade model seeks to redress the imbalance of power in global supply chains. Unlike conventional trade structures, this commercial alternative purport to benefit small farmers and workers in developing countries. In the real world, however, small-scale producers are often excluded from the benefits. <strong>Objective</strong>: To analyzes organic Bolivian quinoa as a Fairtrade product and the impacts and challenges that Bolivian quinoa farmers face in the marketing chain. <strong>Methodology: </strong>A documentary analysis of the production system, application of qualitative techniques with local actors involved in the supply chain of Bolivian quinoa, and field work in regional markets were carried out. <strong>Results</strong>: The economic conditions of smallholder quinoa producers are improving under this certification system. However, global oversupply and increased competition are having a significant impact on retail prices and Bolivian sales to foreign markets. The retail price is more than a third higher than the Fairtrade price, maximizing profits at the expense of fair trade. <strong>Implications</strong>: Organic and Fairtrade certified Bolivian quinoa may not be a suitable product for the Fairtrade model. Being a landlocked country and commercial competition from Peru are the two main challenges for small quinoa producers. <strong>Conclusions</strong>: The Bolivian organic Fairtrade quinoa value chain involves several intermediaries, similar to conventional trade. Organic certification is a time-consuming and costly process because farmers cannot cover the costs. The almost non-existent governance structures imply that most decisions are based on the buyer-driven commodity chain, demonstrating the weak bargaining position of farmers. An alternative certification for small quinoa producers could be the Small Producers' Symbol label.</p>

The Impact of Green Supply Chain Management on Green Innovation, Environmental Performance, and Competitive Advantage

Environmental issues are increasing in importance for businesses day by day. Businesses are undergoing an environmentally focused transformation in all their activities within the value chain. Therefore, the necessity of integrating and maintaining the concept of “green” in all processes such as production, technology development, marketing, and supply chains has emerged. Topics such as environmentally sensitive production systems, green supply, and green innovation (GI) are both accepted in practice in various sectors and are examined in the literature. When the impact of green practices on the performance items of businesses is taken into consideration, it is important to examine the issue from this perspective. In this context, the aim of this study is to examine the impact of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices on GI, environmental performance (EP), and competitive advantage (CA). Within the framework of this aim, a survey was conducted on 283 businesses producing plastic, packaging, and textile products in Gaziantep (169) and Konya (114) provinces in Türkiye. In this study, where the quantitative research method was adopted, the hypotheses established were tested by using structural equation modeling (SEM). SPSS 22.0 package program and AMOS 22.0 program were used in the analysis. Within the scope of the analysis, the measurement model (confirmatory factor analysis) was first tested. As a result of the analysis, GSCM practices have a positive impact on GI and CA; GSCM has a positive impact on EP; GI has a positive impact on CA; and EP has not a positive impact on CA. This study is significant as it examines the combined impact of GSCM, GI, EP, and CA. Also, this study is important as it is the first study to examine the impact of GSCM practices on GI, EP, and CA in Türkiye.

Barriers to the Effective Selection of Sustainable Materials for Residential Building Projects: A Qualitative Study

Although sustainability in Tanzania’s construction sector has been explored in areas such as energy efficiency and green building practices, little attention has been given to understanding the specific barriers to the selection of SBMs in residential projects. This study fills that gap by identifying and analyzing the critical barriers hindering the effective selection of SBMs in Tanzania’s residential construction sector. Through qualitative interviews with experts from regulatory bodies, public developers, and academic researchers, this research provides a comprehensive examination of these barriers. Using Atlas.ti 23 software for a qualitative data analysis, six key categories of barriers were identified: (1) Regulatory and Policy Barriers, (2) Financial Barriers, (3) Knowledge and Awareness Barriers, (4) Technical Barriers, (5) Market and Supply Chain Issues, and (6) Cultural and Social Barriers. Among these, lack of awareness and limited knowledge emerged as particularly significant, alongside regulatory and policy barriers, in hindering the effective selection of SBMs. This study’s novelty lies in its focus on the Tanzanian context, depth of the analysis of the unique challenges, and categorization of the barriers. The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions, particularly in raising awareness, offering financial incentives, and establishing comprehensive regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, this study presents a graphical representation to illustrate the categories and constructs of these barriers, adding a visual dimension to the understanding of the issues. Future research should expand the scope to include private developers and material suppliers, whose roles are critical in enhancing the availability and adoption of SBMs in Tanzania’s construction industry.

Barriers to WHO prequalification of similar biotherapeutic insulin.

To identify the barriers preventing manufacturers of similar biotherapeutic human insulin from submitting their products to the World Health Organization (WHO) for prequalification. We used a self-administered questionnaire to collect data from companies producing similar biotherapeutic human insulin. We included questions about the insulin products manufactured, knowledge of WHO prequalification requirements, export of the products and compliance with good manufacturing practices. Companies had the possibility to provide additional relevant information. We sent the questionnaire to 20 manufacturers in total. We evaluated responses and organized the data into themes. We had a response rate of 55% (11/20 companies). Five broad themes emerged: (i)manufacturers and products; (ii)expressions of interest awareness and participation; (iii)need for technical assistance and training; (iv)market and supply chain challenges; and (v)approval for good manufacturing practices. The most important reasons for manufacturers' lack of response to WHO's expression-of-interest invitation were absence of a mechanism to guarantee return on investment, and perceived complexity of prequalification requirements for insulin-similar biotherapeutic products. To encourage greater participation in the WHO prequalification programme, international procurement agencies associated with the programme should consider establishing a platform to enter into advance purchasing agreements with manufacturers. In addition, WHO's Local Production and Assistance Unit should provide companies with ongoing technical assistance on the development of their human insulin products and improvement of their production facilities to comply with the WHO requirements for good manufacturing practices.

Kajian Elastisitas Transmisi Harga dalam Pemasaran Ternak Sapi Potong di Kabupaten Timor Tengah

This study aims to analyze price transmission elasticity, farmer's share, and marketing margins in the beef cattle distribution chain in Timor Tengah Selatan (TTS) Regency. A survey method was employed to collect data related to the marketing chain. The results showed that the price transmission elasticity value was 1.2237, indicating that the rate of price changes at the farmer level was higher than at the trader level. The marketing margin obtained by sub-district traders was IDR 1,005,014, while district traders obtained a margin of IDR 1,640,762. The farmer's share was 89% when cattle were sold to sub-district traders and 84% when sold to district traders. In conclusion, high price transmission elasticity (Et > 1) indicates an imbalance in price distribution along the marketing chain, the farmer's share for cattle farmers in TTS Regency was relatively high, particularly when selling to sub-district traders, and the marketing margin reflects the relative efficiency of different marketing channels, with IDR 2,645,776 in marketing channel I and IDR 1,640,762 in marketing channel II.

Data-driven digital marketing and battery supply chain optimization in the battery-powered aircraft industry through case studies of Rolls-Royce’s ACCEL and Airbus's E-Fan X Projects

This paper investigates the interplay between data-driven digital marketing strategies and battery supply chain optimization in the battery-powered aircraft industry, with a focus on Rolls-Royce's ACCEL and Airbus's E-Fan X projects. As the electric aircraft market emerges, these companies face the dual challenge of promoting technological advancements to a skeptical audience while navigating complex supply chain requirements. The study explores how data analytics and targeted content marketing are employed to enhance stakeholder engagement, build consumer trust, and communicate the benefits of electric aviation. By leveraging digital platforms, Rolls-Royce and Airbus effectively highlight key aspects such as battery performance, sustainability, and the safety of electric propulsion, addressing both technical and consumer concerns. Concurrently, the research delves into the intricacies of battery supply chain optimization, examining the processes involved in sourcing high-energy-density batteries, ensuring quality control, and adhering to regulatory standards. Advanced supply chain management techniques, including predictive analytics and real-time monitoring, are analyzed for their role in streamlining procurement and manufacturing processes. The integration of these strategies within digital marketing campaigns demonstrates how each company positions itself as a leader in the industry, emphasizing technological innovation and reliability. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how digital marketing and supply chain optimization are not only critical for promoting the adoption of electric aircraft but also for overcoming market skepticism and ensuring operational efficiency. By presenting case studies of two pioneering projects, ACCEL and E-Fan X, the research highlights best practices and strategic approaches that can guide other companies in the industry. The findings underscore the importance of a synergistic approach where digital marketing is informed by supply chain realities, creating a transparent and trustworthy narrative for consumers and stakeholders. Ultimately, this paper contributes to the discourse on how emerging technologies in aviation can be successfully marketed and operationalized, offering insights into the effective use of digital marketing and supply chain management in the rapidly evolving electric aircraft sector.

Research on the Influence of Brand Interaction on Social Media Platforms and Consumers’ Purchasing Decision-making Process

With the rapid development of Internet technology and the popularity of social media, the interaction between brands and consumers has undergone profound changes. Social media platform, with its unique real-time, interactive and communication, has become an important bridge between brands and consumers. In the complex and changing market environment, brand building and maintenance is the key to the success of enterprises. With rapid changes in consumer behavior and market competition, brands need to adopt innovative strategies to strengthen their market position and consumer loyalty. The impact of KOL and KOC on consumers on social media platforms is complementary. KOL quickly increases brand awareness through extensive influence and professionalism, while KOC deepens consumers’ trust and desire to buy brands through authenticity and high interactivity. The combination of the two can form a complete marketing chain from awareness promotion to trust establishment to purchase transformation to maximize the marketing effect. This paper aims to explore how brand interaction on social media platforms affects consumers’ purchase decision-making process, and analyze its mechanism, influencing factors and effects, and give suggestions.

The intersection of green marketing and sustainable supply chain practices in FMCG SMEs

As sustainability increasingly shapes consumer behavior and corporate strategies, Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are adopting green marketing and sustainable supply chain practices to gain a competitive edge. This review explores the intersection of these two critical areas, demonstrating how their integration can drive both business growth and environmental responsibility. Green marketing, which focuses on promoting eco-friendly products and sustainable business practices, has become a key tool for FMCG SMEs to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. By adopting strategies such as eco-friendly packaging, ethical sourcing, and transparency in communicating sustainability efforts, SMEs can build stronger consumer trust, foster brand loyalty, and meet the growing demand for environmentally conscious products. Simultaneously, sustainable supply chain practices ensure that the production, distribution, and logistics processes align with environmental and social goals. These practices include reducing carbon emissions, minimizing waste, and working closely with suppliers to ensure ethical sourcing of materials. The synergy between green marketing and sustainable supply chains creates a feedback loop where operational sustainability supports marketing efforts, and consumer demand for green products encourages further sustainability improvements. This review also examines the challenges FMCG SMEs face in aligning these strategies, such as cost barriers, regulatory compliance, and supply chain complexity. Through case studies and industry examples, it highlights how innovative technology and stakeholder collaboration can help overcome these challenges. Ultimately, this study underscores that integrating green marketing and sustainable supply chain practices is not only essential for addressing environmental concerns but also for enhancing competitive positioning, customer satisfaction, and long-term market success in the FMCG sector. Recommendations for SMEs on how to effectively align their marketing and supply chain sustainability efforts are also provided. Keywords: Green Marketing, Supply Chain, FMCG SMEs, Review.

Electronic commerce as a tool for implementation of the constitutional right to business activity

The scientific article examines the essence and development of e-commerce as a key element of the modern economy, which significantly changes traditional business models and creates new opportunities for entrepreneurs and consumers. The impact of information and communication technologies on economic development is analyzed and their decisive role in the implementation of electronic commerce is indicated. Several key innovations that have fueled the rapid growth of e-commerce are explored, namely: AI-powered personalization, omni-channel commerce across platforms, and the integration of secure electronic payments using emerging technologies such as blockchain. In addition to technological aspects, social and economic factors that contributed to the development of e-commerce are considered, including the COVID-19 pandemic, changing consumer habits and the growth of logistics companies. The article also covers the issue of legal regulation of electronic commerce, analyzing international legal acts. It is concluded that e-commerce is a complex phenomenon that includes not only trade transactions but also related business processes such as marketing, data processing and supply chain management. The need for further development of the legal framework for its effective functioning in Ukraine and the world is indicated. E-commerce is proposed to be understood as the process of buying, selling or exchanging goods, services and information using electronic means, mainly through Internet platforms, covering a variety of business processes, such as: online trade, electronic payments, digital marketing, supply chain management, etc. . It was established that the relationship between the right to entrepreneurial activity and e-commerce is that e-commerce is one of the forms of entrepreneurial activity that is adapted to the modern conditions of the digital economy and the development of information technologies, in particular, this relationship is embodied through the prism the following legal relations: the right to entrepreneurial activity as a basis. The constitutional right to entrepreneurial activity provides an opportunity to freely choose and carry out economic activity for the purpose of obtaining profit. This right covers the freedom to choose the form of doing business, dispose of profits and protect one’s interests in the process of carrying out economic activities; digitalization as a form of entrepreneurship. Electronic commerce (e-commerce) expands the traditional possibilities of conducting business, offering new ways for entrepreneurs through the Internet. It covers not only the purchase and sale of goods and services, but also various business processes related to the exchange of digital information, conducting financial transactions and managing logistics; digital capabilities. Thanks to electronic commerce, the right to do business is expanded by accessing global markets and simplifying interaction with customers, which allows doing business regardless of geographical boundaries and time. Entrepreneurs can quickly implement new technologies, automate business processes and provide an individual approach to consumers through digital platforms; protection, security and settlement. Thus, the state, realizing the constitutional right to entrepreneurial activity, must ensure legal regulation of electronic commerce. This includes the protection of consumer rights, control over the quality of services, regulation of digital signatures, protection of personal data and support for the security of online payments; innovation and competition. E-commerce stimulates the development of entrepreneurship, increasing competition through opportunities for innovation. Entrepreneurs working in e-commerce gain competitive advantages due to the efficiency of digital technologies and global opportunities.

Covid-19 Led Vulnerability of Vegetable Production and Marketing: Insights from Marginal Farmers of Odisha

The global economic crisis due to COVID 19 pandemic has revealed how the supply chain of agricultural marketing has been devastated in general and vegetable farming in particular. So, this paper tried to examine the impact of COVID-19 on the vulnerability of vegetable farmers in Odisha. To execute the study, data were collected from vegetable growers through a direct personal interview method. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics and a multi-variable regression model to evaluate the vulnerability of farmers as well as to identify the factors affecting the extent of vulnerability. Survey findings indicate that 71 per cent of farmers were able to sell 60-80 per cent of their harvested product in the market and the rest products were wasted. The prime reasons for the losses are lockdown, lack of buyers in the markets and fear of coronavirus spreading among consumers as well as producers. The empirical study is evident that significant factors such as production quantum, land cultivated, and having personal vehicle have negative impact on the vulnerability extent of farmers. The study got its originality, as it considers marginal farmers with both rented and owned forms of land holdings.

Market Orientation, Supply Chain Integration, and Marketing-Technical Integration: Antecedents of Competitive Advantage

The study aims to investigate the role of knowledge-based dynamic capabilities in achieving competitive advantage. First, the study considers the firms’ important marketing and supply chain management capabilities and logically identifies market orientation, supply chain integration, and marketing-technical integration as knowledge-based dynamic capabilities, then empirically attempts to examine their role in achieving competitive advantage. A quantitative research design was utilized, and all constructs were directly measured using multi-item scales. Data was collected from 625 pharmaceutical firms working in Pakistan and analyzed by using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The results show that market orientation has the strongest effect, followed by supply chain integration, and marketing-technical integration. The study provides strong evidence for the need for a knowledge-based approach in firms. Firms must develop knowledge-based dynamic capabilities for acquiring, generating, and combining knowledge to achieve a competitive position in their respective industries. Managers should focus on customer needs and competitor activities, integrate with supply chain partners, and promote a culture of cross-functional collaboration. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on knowledge-based dynamic capabilities and emphasizes the importance of a knowledge-based approach in achieving competitive advantage.

Patterns and Marketing Strategies of Herbal Medicine at Sukoharjo Regency

The development of the herbal industry, especially in the sector of herbal medicine, is increasingly gaining momentum. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the demand for a healthy life. Consequently, many institutions are involved in the marketing and distribution of herbal products. This study aimed to analyze the institutions involved, marketing patterns, and marketing strategies for industrially processed herbal medicine products. A qualitative approach with descriptive analysis was employed in this study. Data collection methods included observation, literature study, and interviews with informants. The key informants in this research included herbal medicine business actors and market managers. These business actors consist of herbal medicine processors and marketers. This research was conducted in Sukoharjo Regency. The results show that the institutions involved in the marketing chain of herbal medicine products comprise raw material suppliers, manufacturers functioning as distributors, retailers, and consumers. The marketing chain for processed herbal medicine products can be categorized into 6 marketing channels. The marketing strategies for industrially processed herbal medicine products that can be implemented include promotion via social media; employing a super value strategy; adding distribution agents; developing research on standardization and market opportunities; and innovation in industrially processed herbal medicine products.

Nutritional value of edible Russula griseocarnosa in Vietnam

This study examines the nutritional value of edible Russula griseocarnosa in Vietnam. Russula griseocarnosa is a popular edible wild mushroom in northern Vietnam, where it is consumed locally or exported to China. Future market development and increased trade in Russula griseocarnosa require information on the composition and quality of mushrooms being harvested from the wild. As the nutritional value of this mushroom has not been documented, mushrooms were collected from secondary forests in Bac Giang and Cao Bang provinces, and primary forests in Quang Ninh province for determining the proximate and mineral contents. We dried the mushrooms and sequentially measured the proximate content using standard protocols. For mineral content, the mushroom powder was acid digested and analysed by atomic absorption spectrometry. The study found that Russula griseocarnosa in Vietnam contained 18-29% protein, 57-68% carbohydrate, 8.7-13.7% crude fiber, 0.8-2.1% crude fat, and 0.9-1.1% ash, and has high mineral content (mg/kg dry weight) of K (19,836-24,966), P (2,631-3,335), Ca (573-1,530), Mg (350-636), Fe (143-836), Zn (60-93), and Cu (31-42). The data in this study can be used in establishing official product brands of Russula griseocarnosa, which could improve the livelihood of local people who are dependent on non-wood forest products. Further studies should explore the market chain and mushroom product opportunities, the livelihood of rural households, and the sustainability of harvesting wild mushrooms.

Assessment of irrigation performance trends using selected comparative indicators over consecutive periods: A case study of the Koga Irrigation Scheme in the Amhara region, Ethiopia

AbstractThe Koga Irrigation Scheme is a modern irrigation scheme in Ethiopia, and furrow irrigation is a common water application method. The main purpose of this study is to show in which year it performed well and what the problems were and to identify the best alternatives that may be essential for managing the scheme effectively and efficiently. The performance trends of the Koga Irrigation Scheme were evaluated using four selected performance indicators, namely, physical, agricultural, water use and economic performance indicators. Primary and secondary data, including geographic locations, water supply, harvested yield, market prices, irrigated crops, actual irrigated area, planned irrigable area, total management and operation cost, water fees and historical climate data, were collected. Land use performance analysis indicates that the scheme operates below its potential. The maximum irrigated area was 6,327.7 ha less than the designed 7,000 ha in 2015 and 3,619.9 ha in 2016. Water consumption peaked in 2015 and decreased in 2016. The dominant crops were wheat (55%), potato (19%), barley (7.6%), onion (7.4%), maize (5.6%) and other crops (5.4%). This suggests a preference for low‐value, water‐intensive crops. Water use by crops is lower than reservoir release, indicating significant water loss. Economic water productivity is low, primarily due to the dominance of low‐value, water‐intensive crops. To enhance scheme performance, the study recommends adjusting cropping patterns, estimating actual water demand for the respective crops and irrigation scheduling, adopting efficient water application methods and strengthening the market chain.

Amplification of avian influenza virus circulation along poultry marketing chains in Bangladesh: A controlled field experiment

The prevalence of avian influenza viruses is commonly found to increase dramatically as birds are transported from farms to live bird markets. Viral transmission dynamics along marketing chains are, however, poorly understood. To address this gap, we implemented a controlled field experiment altering chicken supply to a live bird market in Chattogram, Bangladesh. Broilers and backyard chickens traded along altered (intervention) and conventional (control) marketing chains were tested for avian influenza viruses at different time points. Upon arrival at the live bird market, the odds of detecting avian influenza viruses did not differ between control and intervention groups. However, 12 h later, intervention group odds were lower, particularly for broilers, indicating that viral shedding in live bird markets resulted partly from infections occurring during transport and trade. Curtailing avian influenza virus prevalence in live bird markets requires mitigating risk in marketing chain nodes preceding chickens’ delivery at live bird markets.

Sustainability Business and Its Impact on Project Performance In the mining Industry in Kenya: A case of Tata Chemicals Magadi, Kenya

Sustainability business is a self-regulating business model that helps a company to be socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders and public. The general objective of the study is to establish the impact of sustainability business on project performance in the mining industry in Kenya. Different theories and literature relating to the study were reviewed and the emerging knowledge gap identified. The research was conducted in the mining industry specifically within Tata Chemicals Magadi Limited (TCML). The target population was 300 respondents from different departments including marketing and supply chain (internally) and externally the population included women and young people. The researcher used stratified random sampling. From the possible 300 target population, stratified random sampling was employed to select a total of 72 sample population. This is 24% of the total population. The method used for data collection was quantitative design where a structured questionnaire was used to get the views. Both qualitative and quantitative process was used to analyze the data that was collected and compute the information using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings were presented to the panelists by use of power point presentation. The study recommends that companies should focus on maintaining health and safety of employees as this would minimize the cost of the business that is associated with work place injuries and also enhance productivity. The study also recommends the necessity of equitable treatment of employees. By applying principles of equity, this will enable the mining company create workforces that are accessible to all irrespective of physical ability, cognitive difference or social economic background. It also endorses that a similar study to be conducted on the influence of CSR initiatives on project performance on other industries.