Southern Zone Research Articles

Food Sales Activities Associated to Family Survival Strategies During Covid-19 Lockdown in Brazzaville, Congo

The COVID-19 pandemic has a negative impact on people's living conditions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa in vulnerable and low-income families. The aim of this work is to analyze the socio-demographic profile of people who engaged in food sales activities during the COVID-19 lockdown in Brazzaville, as well as their coping and survival strategies. The study, which used a mixed (qualitative and quantitative) approach, included 716 people (241 men and 475 women) aged 18 to 72 years residing in four communes in the southern zone of Brazzaville, Republic of Congo. The main study inclusion criterion was the practice of selling food during COVID-19 lockdown. However, we did not include people whose profession had been selling these products prior to the health crisis. The qualitative data collected during the interviews concerned information on vendors, sales locations, coping strategies used to find the products sold, and sales prices. As for the qualitative data assessed using a food questionnaire, they were summarized in terms of the quality and quantity of food consumed, which made it possible to assess daily energy intake and therefore the level of food security. The results showed that the sellers, with an average age of 42.7, had a relatively low level of education and lived in a medium-sized family (8). Of these, 21.8% were food insecure. Foodstuffs sold were dominated by miscellaneous products (48.2%), street foods (26.7%), ready-made meals (22.3%), cassava flour (17.4%) and fruit and vegetables (7.5%). Salted fish, smoked fish and frozen (imported) meat products were also sold. As far as prepared dishes were concerned, grilled meats of various kinds were the most popular. Sales outlets included state markets, neighborhood markets, storefronts and street markets for auctions. The use of rickshaws and wheelbarrows by a few money-seeking youngsters enabled the products purchased to be transported from the places of purchase to the various markets or sales sites. In short, given the absence of an effective distribution and marketing policy in the food system in times of crisis in the Congo, our results call into question the resilience of vulnerable populations in the face of the country's sociosanitary crises.

Cultural, Morphological and Pathogenic Variability in the Colletotrichum capsici Isolates, Inciting Anthracnose and Fruit rot of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) in different Agro-Climatic Zones of Kerala, India

Aims: To study the cultural, morphological and pathogenic variability existing among the pathogen isolates of Colletotrichum capsici, inciting anthracnose and fruit rot of chilli in Kerala. Study Design: Completely randomized design (CRD). Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture (Kerala Agricultural University), Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram during 2018-2019. Methodology: A survey was conducted in the five agro-climatic zones (ACZs) of Kerala viz., Northern zone, Central zone, Special problem zone, High range zone and Southern zone to assess the incidence and severity of anthracnose disease. The various symptoms in the surveyed locations were also noted. Pathogen isolates were grown in PDA medium in the laboratory and colony characters (colour and mycelial growth rate of pathogen colonies) were observed. Also, the morphological characters viz., mycelial width, shape and size of conidia, acervular diameter, number and size of setae, appressorial size were recorded. Results: Maximum anthracnose incidence of 90 per cent and severity of 52.60 per cent were noticed at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Pilicode (Northern zone). Characteristic leaf spot, fruit rot and die-back symptoms were observed in the survey locations. Pathogen colonies showed different shades of white, off-white to grey turning brown or black with regular or irregular margins and concentric rings of black acervuli in the potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium. The diameter of growth of C. capsici isolates ranged from 7.20 to 8.60 cm at 7 days after incubation. All the C. capsici isolates initiated hyaline mycelium having a width of 1.73 - 2.36 µm and produced numerous sickle shaped conidia with a size range of 19.42 - 20.46 µm × 2.16 - 3.09 µm. Black coloured, circular or ellipsoidal acervuli (122.14 - 189.08 µm dia.) had 20 – 46 setae of length 74.13 to 107.30 µm. Also, brown or black appressoria of size 8.64 - 12.64 µm × 5.54 - 7.84 µm were formed in slide culture. Cc3 from College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara was obtained as the most virulent isolate producing a lesion size of 1.13 cm and PDI of 45.33 in the artificially inoculated chilli fruits (var. Vellayani Athulya) at 5 days after inoculation. Conclusion: All the nine C. capsici isolates exhibited variability in their cultural, morphological and pathogenic characteristics. Variability in phytopathogenic fungi helps in identifying novel and sustainable control methods to tackle the diseases incited by them. Understanding pathogen variability provides new insights for developing effective disease management methods. This will help in promoting sustainable agriculture and preventing severe crop losses.

Farm Partial Budget Analysis of Onion (Allium Cepa L.) for the Application of Nitrogen and Spacing in Southern Tigray, Ethiopia

This study aimed to assess the economic viability of onion production under varying nitrogen fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing in the study area using partial budget analysis. The experiment employed a factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design, conducted at Alamata Agricultural Research Center in Kara Adishabo in 2020. Experimental treatments included nitrogen fertilizer rates (0, 23, 46, 69, and 92 Kg N ha-1) and intra-row spacing (5, 10, and 15 cm) with three replications. The partial budget analysis indicated that the treatment combination of 69 kg N ha-1 and 5 cm intra-row spacing yielded the highest net benefit of birr 642602.3. However, based on the marginal rate of return, the recommendation of 46 Kg N ha-1 and 15 cm intra-row spacing, which had a lower net benefit, was rejected after residual analysis. Consequently, the recommended treatment combination is 69 Kg N ha-1 and 5 cm of intra-row spacing, contrary to the previous recommendation. Onion cultivation is a significant economic activity in the southern zone, playing a crucial role in the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Consequently, understanding the production costs and analyzing the financial profitability of this on-farm business is essential in the study area to enhance crop productivity.

Analysis of Land Use Land Cover and Land Surface Temperature in Karst Area: A Case Study Wonogiri Regency

<p class="Abstract">Urban development and global climate change drive increased Land Surface Temperature (LST). Wonogiri Regency is an area that is within the development range of Surakarta City. Analysis of land surface temperature has become Important in Wonogiri Regency as a mitigation measure for urban heat islands. This study aims to measure Land Surface Temperature (LST) in Wonogiri Regency and determine the controlling factor in the form of Land Use Land Cover (LULC), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), seasons, and zones by landform. Using the Google Earth Engine platform, LST calculations, LULC classifications, and NDVI calculations can compute imagery. The dataset used is USGS Landsat 8. The analytical technique used in this study is comparative descriptive, which compares other controlling factors. The analysis results show the vital role of LULC, NDVI, seasonality, and landform on LST. LULC types of built-up land, low NDVI values, dry season, and southern zone (karst) tend to have higher LST than other factors.</p>

Characterization of Geochemical and Isotopic Profiles in the Southern Zone Geothermal Systems of Mount Seulawah Agam, Aceh Province, Indonesia

The Seulawah Agam geothermal area exhibits significant potential as a source of energy for power generation, with an estimated capacity of 130 MW. Geological and geochemical investigations indicate that the Seulawah Agam geothermal system is part of the extensive Sumatra Fault. Analysis of the geochemical composition of geothermal water at the South Zone manifestation location of Mount Seulawah Agam, Aceh Province-Indonesia, involves examining cation (K+, Na+, Ca2+, and Mg2+), anion (Cl-, HCO3-, and SO42-), and isotope (δD and δ18O) contents. This data aids in estimating reservoir temperatures using geothermometer equations. Surface characteristics of the South Zone manifestation reveal neutral to alkaline pH values (6.02 to 8.68), relative temperatures (29.97 to 42.57 ºC), conductivity (49.8 to 100.7 mV), and TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) ranging from 352.6 to 497.0 mg/L. The dominant water composition is sodium–calcium–bicarbonate (Ca–Na–HCO3), indicating a bicarbonate water type. Average temperature depths in the South Zone manifestation of Mount Seulawah Agam are estimated as follows: Alue Ie Seu’um around 288.84 ± 2.19 ºC, Alue Ie Masam around 304.17 ± 20.9 ºC, Alue PU around 290.02 ± 6.85ºC, and Alue Teungku around 265±11.39 ºC. Isotope data (δD and δ18O) suggest meteoric water as the source for this manifestation. Fluid geochemical analysis indicates the potential for utilizing the geothermal manifestations of the South Zone of Mount Seulawah Agam for geothermal development or the construction of a geothermal power plant, given its high enthalpy system with an average temperature exceeding 225 ºC. Further research, including data drilling, is essential to gather precise subsurface data. Additionally, the Aceh Provincial Government should formulate policies to identify strategic areas for geothermal development, leveraging the existing exploitable potential.

Atmospheric constraints on changing Arctic CH4 emissions

Rapid warming in the Arctic has the potential to release vast reservoirs of carbon into the atmosphere as methane (CH4) resulting in a strong positive climate feedback. This raises the concern that, after a period of near-zero growth in atmospheric CH4 burden from 1999 to 2006, the increase since then may be in part related to increased Arctic emissions. Measurements of CH4 in background air samples provide useful, direct information to determine if Arctic CH4 emissions are increasing. One sensitive first-order indicator for large emission change is the Interpolar Difference, that is the difference in surface atmospheric annual means between polar northern and southern zones (53°–90°), which has varied interannually, but did not increase from 1992 to 2019. The Interpolar Difference has increased moderately during 2020–2022 when the global CH4 burden increased significantly, but not yet to its peak values in the late-1980s. For quantitative assessment of changing Arctic CH4 emissions, the atmospheric measurements must be combined with an atmospheric tracer transport model. Based on multiple studies including some using CH4 isotopes, it is clear that most of the increase in global atmospheric CH4 burden is driven by increased emissions from microbial sources in the tropics, and that Arctic emissions have not increased significantly since the beginning of our measurement record in 1983 through 2022.

Initial Upper Paleolithic in the Zagros Mountains

The Iranian Plateau and the Zagros Mountain chain, located at the crossroads of Africa and Eurasia, occupy a critical geographical position in out-of-Africa scenarios, sitting astride a major dispersal corridor into southern and central Asia. Yet, the region’s role in human population expansions remains under-investigated. Here, we present findings from new excavations at Pebdeh Cave, a site located in the southern zone of the Zagros Mountains. Pebdeh contained a well-defined layer dating to ∼42–40,000 years ago (ka), with Levallois elements alongside laminar reduction. This transitional feature in the Zagros was not dated and recorded before, and, given its similarity to Western and Central Asian industries with respect to chronology and technological features, we define it here as the Zagros Initial Upper Paleolithic (IUP). Although Late Middle Paleolithic and Early Upper Paleolithic technologies have been identified in the Zagros in the time period ranging between 50 and 40 ka, suggesting the presence of Neanderthals and modern humans in the mountainous region, the overall abrupt and constrained chronology of the IUP at Pebdeh, together with the penecontemporaneous appearance of other Upper Paleolithic sites in the Zagros Mountains, is compatible with a population expansion of Homo sapiens rather than an autochthonous development.

Entrepreneurial Mindset among Students of Southern Zone Community Colleges: Gender, Age, and Study Program

Entrepreneurial Mindset among Students of Southern Zone Community Colleges: Gender, Age, and Study Program

COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF NEEM OIL DERIVATIVES WITH IMIDACLOPRID AGAINST OKRA JASSID, AMRASCA BIGUTTULA (ISHIDA)

The present research study was conducted at the experimental field condition of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Southern Zone Agricultural Research Centre, University of Karachi, to compare the field performance of different neem oil derivatives doses with Imidacloprid, sprayed on okra crop against the jassid population. The experiments were carried out RCBD with the application of four treatments, including three different concentrations of neem oils at (2%, 1.5%, and 1%) with the comparison of Imidacloprid pesticide and control. Neem oil was selected as a natural pesticide against jassid population reduction on okra crop. All the treatments were sprayed twice and data were recorded before 24h of pre-treatment and post-treatment at 48h, 72h, and 144h, respectively. The overall maximum reduction % after the application of Imidacloprid against the jassid population was calculated (61.51%) in 1st spray and (58.25%) 2nd spray, followed by (43.01%), (39.75%) at 2%, consequent to (32.50%), (29.75%), at 1.5% and (25.55%), (24.52%) at 1%, respectively. The maximum efficacy in neem oil concentration was recorded at 2% followed by 1.5%, and 1% but all neem oil concentrations including Imidacloprid observed effective from the 1st day up to the 6th post-spray days. All neem oil concentrations after 24h, 48h, 72h, and 144h of post-spray found significantly different at (P< 0.05). The application of neem oil, 2% caused the phytotoxicity reduction in okra plants. Thus, it is recommended that the bio-pesticide should be applied at 1.5% neem oil concentration against the jassid pest population.

Population distribution and drivers of habitat use for the Burrunan dolphins, Port Phillip Bay, Australia.

Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops) populations, also described as the Burrunan dolphins, consist of a resident population of approximately 150 individuals in Port Phillip Bay (PPB), Victoria. Previous reports indicate distribution across a small southern region of PPB; however, little is known about their full distribution patterns across the entire PPB region. Here, we investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of the Burrunan dolphins across four zones representative of PPB benthic habitats and bathymetry to gain a better understanding of the potential drivers of the population's habitat use. Port Phillip Bay, Victoria, Australia. One hundred and twenty-nine boat-based surveys were undertaken between March 2015 and August 2021, encompassing 181 sightings. Generalised linear models (GLMs) were used to investigate annual, seasonal and zonal variation. We found no variation in sighting frequencies between years. Austral summer and winter had a significantly higher sighting frequency than autumn. We found that Burrunan dolphins utilise the entire bay, further extending the species range, and show a significantly higher number of sightings in the southern zone than in any other zones. Overlaying dolphin sightings with known oceanographic characteristics within PPB, we found bathymetry and benthic habitats were potential drivers for the Burrunan dolphins distribution and habitat use within the bay, with the dolphins significantly favouring the 5-10 and 10-15 m contour depths. These results show a more widespread distribution across the bay than previously documented. We recommend expansion of the current marine protected areas in the north and south of the bay. This study has increased our understanding of the vital habitat for the Burrunan dolphin populations. By providing evidence-based conservation recommendations, we hope to improve and contribute to future research, conservation management plans and effective marine protected areas across PPB for the resident Burrunan dolphin population.

Directional Breeding Generates Distinct Genetic Diversity in Hybrid Turf Bermudagrass as Probed with Simple Sequence Repeat Markers

Bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) is a drought-resistant warm-season turfgrass adapted to the southern and transitional zones in the United States. Multiple hybrid cultivars have been developed and released for use as turfgrass, and others are still undergoing development. Increasing genetic diversity of commercial cultivars is vital to stress tolerance. A DNA profiling study of 21 experimental selections from the Oklahoma State University turfgrass breeding program and 11 cultivars was conducted using 51 simple sequence repeat primer pairs across the bermudagrass genome. A pairwise genetic relationship analysis of the genotypes using 352 polymorphic bands showed genetic similarity coefficients ranging from 0.59 to 0.89. The average pairwise population differentiation values were 0.012 for the 11 cultivars and 0.169 for the 21 selections. A cluster analysis using the unweighted paired group with the arithmetic average method grouped the entries into six clusters. A correlation analysis identified different levels of pairwise genetic relationships among the entries that largely reflected parental relationship. Directional breeding and selection for cold hardiness or drought resistance created progeny that had distinct genetic diversity in the tested bermudagrasses. It is evident that an increase in genetic diversity of the existing cultivar pool with the release of one or more experimental selections for commercial use will strengthen and improve bermudagrass systems.

IDENTIFICATION OF THE MAIN DISEASES OF WALNUT IN THE SOUTHERN FRUIT-GROWING ZONE OF KAZAKHSTAN

Industrial cultivation of nut crops in the Republic of Kazakhstan is promoted by favourable soil and climate conditions, especially in the southern region, which makes it possible to obtain high yields of this valuable plant in the future. Significant damage to the yield of nut crops is caused by diseases, protection of plantations from which is one of the main measures aimed at increasing their productivity. The most important issue in cultivation of nut crops is its protection from bacterial and fungal pathogens. In Kazakhstan purposeful researches on studying species diversity of diseases and pests of nut crops have not been carried out. The novelty of the conducted research is in the fact that for the first time in Kazakhstan fungal and bacterial diseases of walnut in the conditions of the southern zone of fruit growing on the basis of microbiological and molecular-genetic methods were identified.
 The results of research showed that the majority of isolated pathogens are fungi, as well as several species of bacteria causing diseases of walnut. In total, 4 genera of fungi were isolated: Alternaria, Fusarium as causative agents of fungal diseases; Aspergillus, Penicillium as secondary infestation; also 2 genera of bacteria: Pantoea, Pseudomonas as causative agents of bacterial diseases. Molecular identification of fungal and bacterial pathogens by PCR based on genomic DNA showed that the studied walnut samples were identified as phytopathogenic fungi: Alternaria alternata, Fusarium solani, as well as phytopathogenic bacteria: Pantoea agglomerans, Pseudomonas syringae, Pseudomonas oryzahabitans. The conducted research results will allow to make up a system of protection of walnut from harmful diseases in order to increase the productivity of plantations.

Frequency, Types and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Bacteria in Culture Positive Ear Swabs of Patients Attending Referral Hospital in Southern Zone of Tanzania

Frequency, Types and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Bacteria in Culture Positive Ear Swabs of Patients Attending Referral Hospital in Southern Zone of Tanzania

Can Landuse Landcover changes influence the success of India's national clean air plans ?

India implemented a range of multifarious strategies to address the issue of substandard air quality. One such flagship scheme of government of India is National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which recommends sector specific reduction in emissions and increase in forest cover etc. To reduce particulate matter concentrations by 40% in 2026 compared to 2019. The present study aims to gauge the impact of Land Use Land Cover (LULC) changes alone on success of NCAP, using weather research forecasting model with chemistry (WRF-Chem) and integrated geographical information system and remote sensing software Terrset. The findings elucidate that, by the year 2026, the Ventilation Coefficient (VC) in India's eastern, central, northern, and north-eastern regions is anticipated to register a decline ranging from 18% to 50% compared to the baseline year of 2019. Conversely, an increase of 17% is expected in the southern region. The alterations in Fallow Land, Barren and sparsely vegetated land, Urban and Built-up Land, and Tundra, contribute to these shifts, displaying varying percentage changes across distinct zones. Simulations indicate that these LULC changes are impeding the planned reduction in PM2.5 levels. Projections suggest an increase in PM2.5 levels as high as 13% in the eastern, central, northern, and north-eastern regions, accompanied by a decrease of 33% in the Southern zone of the country. Significantly, non-attainment cities in Himachal Pradesh and Maharashtra are expected to witness a substantial rise in PM2.5-induced premature mortality, with Pune city projected to experience over 24,525 additional premature deaths by 2026. A comparable examination conducted for the year 2022, utilizing actual LULC data, suggests that if the NCAP fails to effectively implement LULC changes, it may reduce this anticipated trade-off. Addressing this concern, the study employed WRF-Chem to simulate 60 combinations, proposing LULC enhancements conducive to improving VC. The results underscore the critical importance of preserving at least 36% of the LULC category of mixed forest land, encompassing plantations, orchards, and areas under shifting agriculture. Additionally, a reduction in barren land and fallow land emerges as pivotal for enhancing the ventilation coefficient. The study accentuates the necessity of refraining from further expansion in densely populated areas to counter these anticipated VC trends. This study provides valuable insights, highlighting the need to prioritize LULC management to effectively combat the alarming air pollution.

Yield assessment of rice-black gram, rice-maize and rice-groundnut sequential cropping system influenced by rice establishment methods and nutrient management practices in the dry tract of the Southern zone of Tamil Nadu, India

Integrated nutrient management (INM) practices and suitable cropping systems are an effective and promising way for enhancing crop productivity. However, the impact of proper INM practices and cultivation methods in rice cropping systems in dry tracts remains unclear. The field study evaluated the suitable cropping system under different rice establishment methods with INM practices in a sequential cropping system( rice-black gram, rice-maize, and rice-groundnut). Treatments were designed as two rice establishment methods [Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and Transplanted Rice (TPR)] and five INM practices [RDF-Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (120:40:40 kg NPK ha-1) alone, RDF + Poultry manure compost @ 5 t ha-1, RDF+ Coir pith compost @ 5 t ha-1, RDF+ Green manure @ 6.25 t ha-1 and RDF-Green leaf manure @ 6.25 t ha-1]. TPR with the INM practice of RDF + poultry manure compost @ 5 t ha-1 recorded maximum productive tillers m-2 (351), number of filled grains panicle-1 (130.2), grain yield (6709 kg ha-1) and straw yield (9015 kg ha-1) of rice. Rice fallow crops (black gram, maize and groundnut) recorded 10 – 24,10-18 and 10 - 21 % higher values of yield components and yield, respectively, in DSR with INM treatment of RDF + Green manure @ 6.25 t ha-1 . Thus, RDF plus green manure or poultry manure application is an apt INM practice for a rice-based sequential cropping system under DSR, and the rice-black gram is an economical and sustainable cropping system for dry tracts of the southern zone of Tamil Nadu.

An assessment of atmospheric concentrations and spatiotemporal variation of BTEX and associated pollutants in India

Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) pollution poses a serious threat to public health and the environment because of its respiratory and neurological effects, carcinogenic properties, and adverse effects on air quality. BTEX exposure is a matter of grave concern in India owing to the growing vehicular and development activities, necessitating the assessment of atmospheric concentrations and their spatial variation. This paper presents a comprehensive assessment of ambient concentrations and spatiotemporal variations of BTEX in India. The study investigates the correlation of BTEX with other criteria pollutants and meteorological parameters, aiming to identify interrelationships and diagnostic indicators for the source characterization of BTEX emissions. Additionally, the paper categorizes various regions in India according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) based on BTEX pollution levels. The results reveal that the northern zone of India exhibits the highest levels of BTEX pollution compared to central, eastern, and western regions. In contrast, the southern zone experiences the least pollution with BTEX. Seasonal analysis indicates that winter and post-monsoon periods, characterized by lower temperatures, are associated with higher BTEX levels due to the accumulation of localized emissions. When comparing the different zones in India, high traffic emissions and localized activities, such as solvent use and solvent evaporation, are found to be the primary sources of BTEX. The findings of the current study aid in source characterization and identification, and better understanding of the region's air quality problems, which helps in the development of focused BTEX pollution reduction and control strategies.

Risk Assessment Of Ambient Air Pollution PM2.5 Exposure To Communities In The Cement Industrial Area, Pangkep Regency, Indonesia

Introduction: PM2.5 particles are significant problem and the most significant environmental health risk causing premature death. The study aims to assess the health risk analysis of PM2.5 exposure in the residential areas around the cement industry. Material and Methods: the study used a cross sectional study with an environmental health risk analysis approach. The population of the study were 827 households. The study applied inclusion criteria involving the selecting only one respondent from the same family, so there were 297 respondents from population target. The sample selection was calculated by Lemeshow formula and resulted 98 samples. The measurement PM2.5 located at intervals of 0-5 km from the source of primary pollution areas. The measurement of PM2.5 used HazDust Epam. Guideline standards from the Environmental Protection Agency were used to assess the risk of exposure to pollutants. Results: the average concentration of the southern zone is 60 µg/m3 , the northern zone is 40 µg/m3 , the eastern zone is 21.67 µg/m3 , and the western zone is 46.67 µg/m3 . The Risk Level (RQ) of Real-time PM2.5 intake is relatively safe with RQ<1; and intake lifetime risk is RQ>1; except for the eastern zone RQ<1. Conclusion: the result indicates that PM2.5 exceed the environmental quality standard according to WHO, which is > 10 µg/m3 from the pollution source. Risk Management recommends a safe concentration in the risk zone, proper environmental management and control efforts to reduce health risks in the affected resident.

Spatio-temporal characteristics of Tuberculosis in Ghana

Background Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a prominent contributor to global mortality, standing as the second most fatal infectious disease and holding the seventh position among the top ten causes of death in Ghana. There is insufficient literature regarding the utilization of Bayesian hierarchical models, specifically within the framework of Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA), for examining the spatial and spatio-temporal dynamics of tuberculosis risk in Ghana. This study addresses this gap by determining TB hotspots regions in Ghana using the Bayesian modeling framework within the INLA. Methods TB data were sourced from the Ghana Health Service and National Tuberculosis Programme for the 10 administrative regions of Ghana, from 2008 to 2017. The relative risk of TB for each region and year was estimated utilizing Bayesian spatial and spatio-temporal modeling frameworks. Baseline predictors of TB risk were also considered. Maps for TB risks were created to visualized regions with TB hotspots. Model fitting and parameter estimation were conducted using R version 4.3.2. Results Among the baseline predictors, factors such as TB cure rate, TB success rate, knowledge about TB, HIV prevalence, percentage of literacy, and high income were found to be most significant in influencing the TB risk across the ten regions in Ghana. We noted an increased risk of TB infection in the Northern zone and the Eastern and Greater Accra regions in the Southern zone. Spatio-temporal distribution of TB infection risk was predominantly concentrated in the Southern zone. Clustering of TB risk was observed among neighboring regions. Conclusion To achieve a significant reduction in TB cases, it is essential to allocate resources to TB hotspots regions and also implement measures to control significant predictors of TB infection risk.

Forage Nutritive Quality, Yield and Quantitative Analysis of Leguminous Fodder Cowpea-Maize System as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management in Southern Zone of India

Background: A significant impediment to the advancement of animal husbandry in India is the insufficient availability of green fodder throughout the year. The nutritive quality of forages is heavily influenced by farm-level management practices. Consequently, there is a pressing need to enhance productivity through the implementation of proper agronomic practices. The nutrient management in fodder-based cropping sequence is a key to maximize the fodder production and its quality. Methods: A field experiment was conducted using a randomized block design, consisting of twelve treatments incorporating various organic sources of nutrients. The experiment was replicated thrice during Kharif and Rabi season 2020-22 at Department of Forage Crops, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The treatments included different proportions (100, 75, 50 and 25%) of the recommended dose of nitrogen applied through FYM, vermicompost and bio compost. Result: The experiment results of the three years study revealed that application of 50% RDN through FYM+ 50% RDN through vermicompost recorded the higher green fodder yield of 691 q/ha, dry matter yield of 130.7 q/ha and crude protein yield of 19.3 q/ha. Correlation and regression analysis also indicated that the growth and yield attributes had a positive impact on the fodder yield. Hence it can be recommended that application of FYM and vermicompost (50 and 50% RDN) found better source of organic nutrients for achieving sustainable and economical fodder yield with quality in fodder cowpea-maize cropping system.

Mechanistic Constraints on the Drivers of Southern Ocean Meridional Iron Distributions Between Tasmania and Antarctica

AbstractWhile modeling efforts have furthered our understanding of marine iron biogeochemistry and its influence on carbon sequestration, observations of dissolved iron (dFe) and its relationship to physical, chemical and biological processes in the ocean are needed to both validate and inform model parameterization. Where iron comes from, how it is transported and recycled, and where iron removal takes place are critical mechanisms that need to be understood to assess the relationship between iron availability and primary production. To this end, hydrographic and trace metal observations across the GO‐SHIP section SR3, south of Tasmania, Australia, have been analyzed in tandem with the novel application of an optimum multiparameter analysis. From the trace‐metal distribution south of Australia, key differences in the drivers of dFe between oceanographic zones of the Southern Ocean were identified. In the subtropical zone, sources of dFe were attributed to waters advected off the continental shelf, and to recirculated modified mode and intermediate water‐masses of the Tasman Outflow. In the subantarctic zone, the seasonal replenishment of dFe in Antarctic surface and mode waters appears to be sustained by iron recycling in the underlying mode and intermediate waters. In the southern zone, the dFe distribution is likely driven by dissolution and scavenging by high concentrations of particles along the Antarctic continental shelf and slope entrained in high salinity shelf water. This approach to trace metal analysis may prove useful in future transects for identifying key mechanisms driving marine dissolved trace metal distributions.