Connectivity Problems Research Articles

ASSESSMENT OF TRAINING NEEDS AMONG AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AGENTS ON INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES IN KADUNA STATE AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME, NIGERIA

The study analyzed the training needs of extension agents on information and communication technologies (ICTs) in Kaduna State Agricultural Development Programme (KADP), Nigeria. Seventy-five extension agents were randomly selected for the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean and multinomial regression. The results revealed that the majority of the extension agents had a great need for training in the use of ICT facilities such as multimedia (85%), remote sensing equipment (83.3), internet (83.3%), video camera (81.7%), audio recorder/player (76.7%), computer (73.3%) and audio-visual aids (66.7%). majority (83%) of the respondents had participated in one extension programme or the other while 20 % of the extension agents have never participated into any agricultural extension programme. Factors that influence the training needs of extension agents included training (-0.349 and 0.312), education level (-0.322 and 0.205), job experience (0.142) and age (-0.528) of the extension agents. The major constraints associated with the use of ICT tools by extension agents include lack of skills and knowledge, poor finance, the problem of internet coverage and connectivity, high cost of ICT tools, poor power supply and unavailability of ICT tools. The establishment of ICT units equipped with modern ICT facilities for extension services in all the KADA zones should be carried out. Training courses on the application ICT facilities in extension services should be planned and conducted for all extension agents in KADP for effective extension service delivery.

Flight connecting problem based on zero-one integer programming

With the rapid development of the civil aviation industry, the quantity of flights has significantly increased. However, how to take good advantage of airplanes becomes a problem, and this problem is the flight connection problem. Some flights can use one plane, while some flights cannot. Appropriate allocation of airplanes can maximize the profit and save the time. This paper chooses 12 pairs in Indira Gandhi National Airport. Then, it draws a bipartite graph and builds a zero-one integer programming model. Next, it introduces the constraints subject to the regulations in the aviation industry. Employing the branch and bound method is infeasible at the first time, which means some flights cannot be connected. After altering the constraints, an optimal solution is obtained, ensuring that the number of aircraft is minimal and the airport operates well at the same time. This flight connecting model can also be applied in other circumstances.

University Students’ Perception of Online Speaking Assessment

The objective of the study is to investigate students’ perception of online speaking assessment in terms of satisfaction, confidence, and use of technology. The study involved third-year Bachelor of English students from a public university in Malaysia. A descriptive case study methodology was employed to fulfill the research objectives. Data was primarily collected through a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire, complemented by semi-structured interviews. The study found that students had both positive and negative perceptions towards online speaking assessment. On the positive side, a majority of students reported that online speaking assessment gave them greater confidence and comfort, helping them towards improved performance. The findings demonstrate that the online environment can mitigate student anxiety and bolster language proficiency. Additionally, the study underscores the necessity for students to develop technical skills due to online assessment, thereby highlighting the direct impact of such assessment on students’ technological proficiency. Conversely, students’ negative perception centered on technical challenges such as poor internet connectivity and technical problems, both of which highlight practical obstacles in online education. The findings of the study have implications for Krashen's (1985) Affective Filter Hypothesis in understanding the impact of emotions on speaking performance. This study has significance for educators to improve methods of online speaking assessment by addressing challenges faced by learners. Improving the online mode of evaluation would help sustain the future of online education.

Predator–prey model with sigmoid functional response

AbstractThe sigmoid functional response in the predator–prey model was posed in 1977. But its dynamics has not been completely characterized. This paper completes the classification of the global dynamics for the classical predator–prey model with the sigmoid functional response, whose denominator has two different zeros. The dynamical phenomena we obtain here include global stability, the existence of the heteroclinic and homoclinic loops, the consecutive canard explosions via relaxation oscillation, and the canard explosion to a homoclinic loop among others. As we know, the last one is a new dynamical phenomenon, which has never been reported previously. In addition, with the help of geometric singular perturbation theory, we solve the problem of connection between stable and unstable manifolds from different singularities, which has not been well settled in the published literature.

Практическая составляющая ранней греческой философии

Introduction. The relevance of «practical philosophy» is contrasted with «traditional philosophy», detached from life. The final perspective sees the harmonization of theoretical-practical and practical-theoretical activity of philosophers, based on the appropriate historical and logical rethinking of the history of philosophy. The classical beginning is to emphasize the practical component of early Greek philosophy. Theoretical analysis. The direct connection to life unites Thales as a sage with Thales as a philosopher (the widespread idea of the remoteness of Thales' philosophy from practice is criticized as being engaged by the dominant theoretical-practical paradigm of philosophy). The expert model of the practical component of Thales' philosophy generally characterizes the Milesian school and the Eleates. The absence of effective philosophical practice contributes to the skepticism of Xenophanes and the tragic nature of Heraclitus' work. Political activity of Pythagoreans is the objective maximum of the practical component of philosophy (political model of the practical component of philosophy). The problematic nature of philosophers' political activity, the growth and complication of theoretical research lead the ancient atomists towards the formation of a theoretical-practical model of philosophical activity. Conclusion. The problem of connection with life was positively solved in the work of Thales and was significant for all early Greek philosophy. This should be taken into account in the further study of the history of philosophy; the latter is in essence the school of thought that contributes to the harmonization of theoretical and practical activities of modern philosophy.

Correspondence of L. N. Tolstoy and Yu. F. Samarin: New Contexts and Problems of Relations between Two Contemporaries

Purpose. The purpose of this article is an analytical study of the correspondence between Tolstoy and Samarin, the introduction into scientific circulation of three letters that are stored in the Department of Manuscripts of the State Museum of Leo Tolstoy in Moscow and have not been published until that time. Results. The problem of creative and personal connections between Tolstoy and Samarin, their interaction and especially correspondence is comprehended in many ways. The authors of this article present a detailed scientific commentary on the letters of Tolstoy and Samarin, and explain many realities and facts that have not been given attention in Tolstoy studies. The dating of three Samarin's letters introduced into scientific circulation with analytical explanations of their place and role in the communication of correspondents has been carried out. The work uses biographical, comparative, historical and typological methods, hermeneutic and ontological methods. Conclusion. Despite the fact that Tolstoy could not find a best friend in Samarin, as he really wanted in the early 1860s, it was thanks to communication with him that he deeply comprehended the ambiguity and complexity of a number of Slavophiles’ beliefs in their application to real life.

Implementation of Pancasila Values in Civics Learning in the Digital Era

Pancasila must be actualized in various areas of life, one of which is education. Objective this research to review implementation, obstacles, and challenges in implementing Pancasila values in Indonesian Civics learning in the digital era. The data collection techniques used were observation and interviews. Test the validity of the data using source triangulation. The data analysis techniques used are data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The research results show that students have understood the form of understanding Pancasila values in the digital era.The values of Pancasila are implemented for students, including efforts to build student character, emphasizing the learning process based on living values by utilizing developing technological advances, making learning interactive, linking Pancasila values with technological developments, discussing contemporary issues relevant to Pancasila. The Pancasila values that have been implemented refer to the Pancasila principles.Obstacles in implementing Pancasila values include low awareness and lack of awareness filtering of information, internet connection problems, device limitations, difficulty in motivating students, lack of supervision, lack of experience with technology,absence of study friends, deviation from Pancasila values, and differences in student abilities.The challenge is lack of social interaction between students, limited scope, limited direct experience, minimal control over information, different technological capabilities, and the presence of globalization.

Solving large-scale MEG/EEG source localisation and functional connectivity problems simultaneously using state-space models

State-space models are widely employed across various research disciplines to study unobserved dynamics. Conventional estimation techniques, such as Kalman filtering and expectation maximisation, offer valuable insights but incur high computational costs in large-scale analyses. Sparse inverse covariance estimators can mitigate these costs, but at the expense of a trade-off between enforced sparsity and increased estimation bias, necessitating careful assessment in low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) situations. To address these challenges, we propose a three-fold solution: (1) Introducing multiple penalised state-space (MPSS) models that leverage data-driven regularisation; (2) Developing novel algorithms derived from backpropagation, gradient descent, and alternating least squares to solve MPSS models; (3) Presenting a K-fold cross-validation extension for evaluating regularisation parameters. We validate this MPSS regularisation framework through lower and more complex simulations under varying SNR conditions, including a large-scale synthetic magneto- and electro-encephalography (MEG/EEG) data analysis. In addition, we apply MPSS models to concurrently solve brain source localisation and functional connectivity problems for real event-related MEG/EEG data, encompassing thousands of sources on the cortical surface. The proposed methodology overcomes the limitations of existing approaches, such as constraints to small-scale and region-of-interest analyses. Thus, it may enable a more accurate and detailed exploration of cognitive brain functions.

COVID-19 Constructs of College Students and New Normal Learning Delivery Modalities in Higher Education

The coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, forced the shift from normal to the new normal in the Philippines, the ASEAN region, and the rest of the world. This descriptive-qualitative inquiry sought to uncover the COVID-19 constructs of college students and to determine new normal learning delivery modalities in the context of a state-owned higher education institution. Anchored on the constructivist lens and the grounded theory, Ricoeur’s hermeneutic analysis served as a method of exploring the narratives. The perceived effects of the community quarantines were modes of schooling changed, mental health was tested, internet connectivity problems, economic impacts, and boredom. To better respond to the pandemic, the participants believed that the higher education institution may listen to all stakeholders, learn from other universities, and formulate research-based actions. Modular and online modes wherein blended learning synchronously and asynchronously served as the operational learning delivery modalities of the higher education institution. The learning delivery modalities of the higher education institution complied with the policies and guidelines of the national government, local government units, and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. The new normal learning delivery modalities in a higher education institution based on the constructs of the COVID-19 pandemic of college students were formulated. The results of this study may serve as bases for developing participatory and proactive educational policies and guidelines in transitioning from normal to the new normal.

A pediatric telecardiology system that facilitates integration between hospital-based services and community-based primary care

IntroductionTelecardiology has emerged as a vital field within telemedicine, fostering collaboration between hospital and community medicine. This pilot study introduces an innovative pediatric telecardiology system, comprising a telecardiology system seamlessly integrated with a hospital telemedicine platform. A smooth flow of ECG execution, transmission, and reporting between Primary Care Pediatrician clinics and the hospital was tested as the primary objective. User experience surveys were also considered. MethodsThe study involved three Primary Care Pediatrician clinics, and the enrollment of children took place consecutively from January to July 2023. We integrated a digital electrocardiographic signal acquisition unit and online information transmission-capable tablets, that were provided to the pediatricians, with a telemedicine multitenant platform that facilitated the transmission of the patient's ECG data from the community to the Hospital Pediatric Cardiologist. ResultsA total of 158 children (80 M/78F, 8.9 ± 2.8 yrs) underwent ECG recording (78.5 % medical certificates, 21.5 % presence of symptoms) The transmission and reporting of ECGs were successfully completed in all cases, without technical issues. Normal findings on the ECG were demonstrated in 94.9 % of children. 70.8 % of respondents completed all parts of the survey. Respondents had a high level of education (90 %) and demonstrated excellent or good competence in using digital technologies (89 %). 51 % of respondents were not familiar with the term “Telemedicine” and 81 % of the cases had no previous telemedicine experience. 90 % of users were very satisfied or satisfied with the service. Connection problems (2.8 %) and concerns about the service's reliability compared to standard care (3.7 %) were mentioned as possible limitations of the telecardiology. ConclusionsOur pediatric telecardiology system offers a valuable diagnostic tool to enhance patient management in the community.

Dimensions of financial inclusion in India: a qualitative analysis of bankers perspective

PurposeThis qualitative study aims to examine bankers’ perspectives regarding financial inclusion, the challenges it faces and the scope for improvement. This research proposes a financial inclusion model, considering the inputs received by bankers. Financial exclusion of different sections is an issue common to emerging countries.Design/methodology/approachData for qualitative research were collected through interviews with bank officials. The information was gathered from 32 bankers from India’s several zones (North, South, West and East). The data were collected from bankers from different public and private sector banks. Thematic analysis was performed up to the point of saturation to study the response received from bankers.FindingsBank-related issues such as frequent computer problems, network connectivity problems, costs, a shortage of bank branches, fewer transactions through automated teller machines and a shortage of banking staff affect customers’ confidence in formal banking. Banking services are disrupted by a lack of trust in banking correspondents (BCs), as they are not regular employees of banks. Limits on daily transactions discourage high-value customers from using BCs and kiosks. The time spent on administrative formalities impacts customers. Financial inclusion is affected by availability, accessibility, usage and affordability. Digital financial literacy is essential for ease of transaction, but awareness about financial products helps protect customers from cyber scams. The findings of this research would benefit financial institutions globally in developing their businesses and helping to achieve financial inclusion and the United Nation’s sustainable development goals (SDGs).Originality/valueThis research paper undertakes a qualitative analysis of the views collected from bankers. Bankers are crucial stakeholders in the successful implementation of the National Financial Inclusion Policy of the Government of India. Bankers’ perspectives will be important not only for India and its researchers but also in the global context, as the UN’s SDGs focus on leaving no one behind.

Sink Node Placement and Partial Connectivity in Wireless Sensor Networks.

This research delves into the aspects of communication and connectivity problems within random Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). It takes into account the distinctive role of the sink node, its placement, and application-specific requirements for effective communication while conserving valuable network resources. Through mathematical modeling, theoretical analysis, and simulation evaluations, we derive, compare, and contrast the probabilities of partial and full connectivity within a random WSN, factoring in network parameters and the maximum allowable hop distance/count hmax. hmax captures the diverse range of delay-sensitive requirements encountered in practical scenarios. Our research underscores the significant impact of the sink node and its placement on network connectivity and the sensor connection rate. The results exemplify a noteworthy decline in the sensor connection rate, dropping from 98.8% to 72.5%, upon relocating the sink node from the network center to the periphery. Moreover, as compared with full connectivity, partial connectivity and the sensor connection rate are more suitable metrics for assessing the communication capability of random WSNs. The results illustrate that 1.367 times more energy is required to connect less than 4% of the remote sensors, based on the examined network settings. Additionally, to increase the sensor connection rate slightly from 96% to 100%, an additional 538% more energy is required in multipath fading based on the widely adopted energy consumption model. This research and its outcomes contribute to establishing appropriate performance metrics and determining critical network parameters for the practical design and implementation of real-world wireless sensor networks.

Analysis of the Mechanical Characteristics of Tunnels Under the Coupling Effect of Submarine Active Faults and Ground Vibrations

With the rapid development of modern transportation construction, the construction of cross-harbor tunnels has solved the problem of traffic connection between cross-straits, bays and islands. The construction of sub-sea tunnels has technical difficulties such as high difficulty of marine geological survey, close hydraulic connection between strata and seawater, and more developed adverse geology. Based on this, this paper studies the mechanical characteristics of the submarine tunnel under seismic action at the active fault. Firstly, the mechanical model of the universal fault interface is established, and the calculation model of the fault interface is theoretically derived by the method of vibration mechanics, and the influence of the change of the strength of the contact surface and the stiffness of the surrounding rock on both sides of the fault on the transfer coefficient is obtained. Secondly, based on the ground motion input method of two-dimensional homogeneous half-space field, the relevant program of viscoelastic artificial boundary ground motion input is written by MATLAB program, which lays the foundation and premise of load input for mechanical response calculation. Finally, the outcomes of the tunnel parameters and the interplay between the tunnel and the surrounding rock on the cracking of the tunnel lining shape and the mechanical response of the cross-fault sub-sea tunnel underneath seismic motion are mentioned, and it is concluded that the increase in seismic intensity for different seismic intensities under the sea floor has an essentially constant proportion to the increase in acceleration of the seismic response; the seepage effect under the sea floor for the tunnel lining structure reduces the seismic response displacement, velocity and The seabed seepage for the tunnel lining structure reduces the peak seismic response displacement, velocity and acceleration by about 20–35%.

26 Remotely Training Research Assistants in other Countries to Conduct Neuropsychological Tests: Lessons Learned

Objective:Technological advances allow for increased international collaboration within the medical community (e.g., internet, e-mail, instant messaging, video-teleconferencing [VTC]). Partnering with clinicians and researchers across the globe allows for shared resources, particularly beneficial for underserved populations and communities with poor access to specialty resources, including neuropsychology. Along with the potential benefits of such collaborations comes challenges including language, cultural, and physical barriers. The presented findings detail important lessons learned from an ongoing research collaboration between the Einstein team (Bronx, NY) and a research group in Kerala, India, called the Kerala Einstein Study (KES), a study evaluating pre-dementia syndromes in Indian older adults. Here we highlight the training process of research assistants administering neuropsychological measures to older adults in India, by neuropsychologists in the USA.Participants and Methods:One study manager and several research assistants (collectively referred to as RAs) based in India were trained by the first author, a neuropsychology postdoctoral fellow (MS) based in the US via VTC (i.e., Zoom), under supervision of a clinical neuropsychologist. RAs were trained in test administration and scoring for a variety of neuropsychological measures. RAs speak Malayalam and English; training occurred in English. Following training, VTC meetings were held to process testing experience and channels were created for ongoing administration/scoring questions and concerns (i.e., email, WhatsApp). RAs scanned and uploaded scored protocols to a protected web-based platform. MS double-scored several protocols and additional VTC meetings were held to discuss/update scoring procedures.Results:Physical challenges included time difference between sites, internet connectivity, language barriers (i.e., varying English dialects) cultural considerations (e.g., some test/task directions were changed based on RAs knowledge of more appropriate wording). Test administration challenges included cultural factors (i.e., allowing for continuation of some tasks beyond time limits for rapport) and RA comfort level with administration of some tasks (e.g., trail making test). Scoring challenges included RAs tendency to score too strictly or leniently and confusion regarding specific scoring criteria. At an initial VTC meeting, MS modeled test administration. Then RAs practiced the tests together. To reduce challenges including time difference, connectivity problems, language barriers, and comfort with testing/scoring, VTC training sessions were scheduled individually between MS and each RA. During these sessions, the RA 'tested’ MS and received immediate feedback. Most sessions lasted approximately 90 minutes with one RA requiring a second session (i.e., sessions were tailored for individuals to obtain level of testing comfortability and competency). After each RA was 'cleared’ by MS to start testing, RAs began testing and scoring. Following MS’s review of several scored protocols, meetings took place in groups in order to improve scoring skills and increase consistency between RAs. Given the continued high degree in scoring variability, a third RA was hired with one of his main responsibilities being to double score all protocols.Conclusions:Findings highlight important challenges and considerations for remotely training study personnel to administer neuropsychological measures (i.e., RAs in India and neuropsychologists in the USA). Important steps to reduce identified barriers included individualized training sessions, specific training in scoring, and open/ongoing communication channels.

Random site percolation thresholds on square lattice for complex neighborhoods containing sites up to the sixth coordination zone

The site percolation problem is one of the core topics in statistical physics. Evaluation of the percolation threshold, which separates two phases (sometimes described as conducting and insulating), is useful for a range of problems from core condensed matter to interdisciplinary application of statistical physics in epidemiology or other transportation or connectivity problems. In this paper with Newman–Ziff fast Monte Carlo algorithm and finite-size scaling theory the random site percolation thresholds pc for a square lattice with complex neighborhoods containing sites from the sixth coordination zone are computed. Complex neighborhoods are those that contain sites from various coordination zones (which are not necessarily compact). We also present the source codes of the appropriate procedures (written in C) to be replaced in original Newman–Ziff code. Similar to results previously found for the honeycomb lattice, the percolation thresholds for complex neighborhoods on a square lattice follow the power law pc(ζ)∝ζ−γ2 with γ2=0.5454(60), where ζ=∑iziri is the weighted distance of sites in complex neighborhoods (ri and zi are the distance from the central site and the number of sites in the coordination zone i, respectively).

The Impact of Virtual Museum on Learning Achievement: A Meta-Synthesis Study

This meta-synthesis study aims to explore the impact of virtual museum on learning achievement. With the advancements in technology, virtual museum and augmented reality museum applications have gained popularity in the field of education and museum studies. However, there is a need to examine their effectiveness in enhancing learning outcomes. This research reviews examines 17 studies to evaluate their effects on learning achievement. The findings reveal that virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are frequently used in science, art, and history museums to support the acquisition of conceptual knowledge. These technologies are commonly employed for purposes such as integrating additional materials with physical exhibits, animating complex events or concepts, and simulating virtual exhibitions and story scenarios. However, the study also highlights some challenges and limitations of these applications. Technical issues, such as hardware requirements and connectivity problems, can hinder the effectiveness of the learning experience. Additionally, the availability of high-quality content and the need for instructional guidance are important factors to consider for successful implementation. Overall, this meta-synthesis study suggests that virtual museum and augmented reality museum applications have a positive influence on learning achievement. It emphasizes the potential of these technologies in enhancing the educational experience and recommends further research in this area to explore their long-term effects and address the identified challenges.

The Challenges of Teaching Speaking to High School Students through Zoom Video Conference Application

Video conferencing is often used not only for webinar and other online meetings, but also for teaching and learning process. Some applications such as the Zoom Application are very helpful for students and teachers in the teaching and learning process. This research is about the obstacles faced, namely electronic media and internet quotas for online learning. Not all students are equal when it comes to economics. The problems of this research are how the teacher teaches speaking in online class and the challenges of teaching speaking through Zoom Video Conference Applications. The findings revealed that the English teachers provided relevant video as speaking model and engaged students to speaking practice in pair or small group to gain online learning experience. Meanwhile, teachers found several obstacles in online learning with the issues of students’ presence and motivation because of internet connectivity problems. the effectiveness of the learning process was affected. These findings contribute to highlighting the importance of addressing the digital divide in online speaking class to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students.

Web-Based Technology Interventions for Social Change: Insights from NGOs in Assam

The widespread adoption of web-based technology has presented nonprofit organizations with unparalleled prospects to augment their reach, efficacy, and influence in their endeavour to effect social transformation. With an emphasis on the Assamese environment in India, this qualitative research paper explores the field of web-based technology interventions in the non-profit sector. This study investigates the manner in which web-based technologies are used to further social causes, the difficulties encountered in their implementation, and the ensuing effects on local populations through a detailed analysis of NGOs functioning in Assam. Using a combination of in-depth interviews, surveys, and content analysis of social media and NGO websites, this study presents important new findings about the uptake and modification of web-based technologies in the Assamese charity sector. Results show that web-based tools are being used by NGOs in Assam for a variety of objectives, such as advocacy, fundraising, community mobilization, and capacity building. The reach of social programs has increased, transparency has improved, and greater involvement with stakeholders has been made possible by these interventions. The paper, however, also highlight the difficulties that NGOs in Assam confront, including low levels of digital literacy, resource limitations, and connectivity problems. These obstacles highlight the necessity of specialized tactics and safety nets in order to optimize the advantages of web-based technology interventions. In the end, this research study illuminates the potential of web-based technology to spur social change and offers insightful information about the changing terrain of non-profit activity in Assam. It emphasizes the significance of collaboration, capacity building, and context-specific techniques in guaranteeing that NGOs effectively utilize web-based technology interventions for the betterment of society in Assam and beyond.

Dispersed urban growth in the intermediate city and its impact on public space. A case study in Loja- Ecuador

INTRODUCTION Urban growth in intermediate Latin American cities has given way to low-density, discontinuous peripheries. This uneven development negatively impacts the urban environment and quality of life. In this context, public spaces do not fulfill their structural function, they fail to generate connections between soil uses, recreation areas, and social exchange. OBJECTIVE This study proposes to fill a gap in existing research by focusing on the incidence of dispersed urban growth specifically in public space through the study case analysis. METHODOLOGY Using a descriptive and qualitative approach, dispersed urban growth is analyzed multidimensionally and the networks of public spaces are evacuated in terms of form, accessibility, uses, sociability, and identification. RESULTS The study area presents low and very low densities in about 70% of its area, soil and 30% of the area presents a continuity of the fabric and 76% of the area is intended for land use in this way it is evident that urban growth dispersion focuses on problems of connectivity, fragmentation, segregation, the marginalization that limit access to public space. DISCUSIÓN AND CONCLUSIONS The low density and limited diversity of users, erode social and economic dynamics, in this sense, the public space of the periphery limits its function to a minimum which deteriorates it further instead of contributing to urban quality.

In Rural Areas Internet Connection Problems and Solution Recommendations Experienced in The Process of Using Smart Agriculture Methods in Olive Farming

In Rural Areas Internet Connection Problems and Solution Recommendations Experienced in The Process of Using Smart Agriculture Methods in Olive Farming