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Research Article
Challenges and Opportunities in Participatory Forest Management Within Ol Bolossat Forest, Kenya
Benjamin Mutuku Kinyili*
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
83-90
Received:
6 April 2025
Accepted:
18 April 2025
Published:
14 May 2025
Abstract: The introduction of Participatory Forestry Management (PFM) in Kenya from 1997 has led to the formation of community-based organizations which have come to be referred to as Community Forest Associations (CFAs). Most of the CFAs are preparing to enter into forest management agreements with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). This will confer management roles to the community with the KFS retaining the forest resource ownership right and the right to withdraw the agreement in total or part. The CFAs are formed by individual members who join by paying a prescribed membership fee. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used in data collection, analysis and presentation. Oral interviews with 221 members of the CFA and observation were used in data collection. Data analysis was done in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Study findings were presented as tables, charts and in text form. In addition, multiple regression analysis, which was inferential procedure, was done. The findings showed that participatory forest management in Ol Bolossat forest has significant impacts on the livelihoods of adjacent communities. Main challenges to PFM were lack of technical knowledge and information, poor management and voluntary work not being popular. The community, therefore, required training and capacity building on development, processing technologies, value addition and marketing of Non Wood Forest Products (NWFP) among others.
Abstract: The introduction of Participatory Forestry Management (PFM) in Kenya from 1997 has led to the formation of community-based organizations which have come to be referred to as Community Forest Associations (CFAs). Most of the CFAs are preparing to enter into forest management agreements with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). This will confer management...
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Review Article
Phenological Responses of Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.) Crop to Climate Variability and Change: Review
Tesfaye Bogale*,
Sileshi Degefa,
Gemedo Dalle
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
91-104
Received:
7 April 2025
Accepted:
23 April 2025
Published:
29 May 2025
Abstract: Phenological data plays a vital role in crop management and decision-making processes that influence the global food system. This systematic review aims to explore how wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) phenology responds to variations in temperature and carbon dioxide across different growth stages, as well as the resulting impacts on nutritional quality. A growing body of global research highlights significant shifts in wheat phenology due to rising temperatures. However, findings are inconsistent some studies report an advancement of phenological stages by several days per decade, while others observe delays in the growing season, vegetative, and reproductive phases. Elevated carbon dioxide levels also influence wheat phenology, triggering both early and delayed flowering, as well as variations in elongation and maturity. Climate variability disrupts wheat's carbon metabolism, mineral uptake, and nutrient use efficiency, contributing to reductions in essential minerals such as Fe, Mg, Mn, P, S, and Zn, which carry serious health and nutritional consequences. Consequently, wheat phenology, yield, and nutritional content are all sensitive to climatic changes. To mitigate these effects, the use of wheat varieties with region-specific adaptation strategies is recommended in the face of a changing climate.
Abstract: Phenological data plays a vital role in crop management and decision-making processes that influence the global food system. This systematic review aims to explore how wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) phenology responds to variations in temperature and carbon dioxide across different growth stages, as well as the resulting impacts on nutritional qualit...
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Research Article
Kinematic Analysis of Parameters of a Small-sized Potato Digger
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
105-111
Received:
23 March 2025
Accepted:
3 June 2025
Published:
11 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20251403.13
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Abstract: Kinematic analysis of mechanisms is one of the types of study of the function of movement in time without taking into account the force factors affecting their links. It is known that in the framework of the kinematic analysis of the mechanisms of tension in the plane, the following problems are solved: identify possible cases of all links of the mechanism in the considered time interval; determine the values of linear absolute and relative velocities and accelerations of the characteristic points of the mechanism, as well as the values and directions of the angular velocities of all links; Usually, in the kinematic analysis of mechanisms, analytical, graphical and grapho-analytical methods are used. Now, with the help of computer equipment and programs, it will be possible to identify this problem clearly and in a short time. For example, let's look at the iterative determination of velocity and acceleration using SolidWorks Motion. To take full advantage of the existing functionality of the program, it will be necessary to provide analytical expressions for how it is built on the basis of analytical dependencies, as well as finding the speed and acceleration of a particular type of movement. This article provides information on the kinematic analysis of the main mechanism of a small potato digger, aggregated with a walk-behind tractor for digging out potatoes, using the SolidWorks software. On the basis of the given initial conditions, graphs of the acceleration and acceleration of the mechanism joints were constructed, and the values were determined and analyzed.
Abstract: Kinematic analysis of mechanisms is one of the types of study of the function of movement in time without taking into account the force factors affecting their links. It is known that in the framework of the kinematic analysis of the mechanisms of tension in the plane, the following problems are solved: identify possible cases of all links of the m...
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Research Article
Effectiveness of the Nematicidal Preparation Against the Potato Nematode Complex
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
112-117
Received:
22 April 2025
Accepted:
3 June 2025
Published:
11 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20251403.14
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Abstract: Summary: Potato cultivation is a crucial area in crop production, especially in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine, where agroecological conditions require effective plant protection strategies. Yield is influenced by numerous factors, one of which is infestation by phytonematodes. This is particularly relevant under irrigated farming conditions, which promote the development of harmful nematode species. The article presents the results of testing a nematicidal preparation based on the predatory fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora against a complex of potato nematodes under model vegetative experiment conditions. This approach makes it possible to evaluate the potential efficacy of the product before large-scale field application. A reduction was observed in the total number of phytophagous nematodes (Paratylenchus nanus, Pratylenchus pratensis), mycetophagous nematodes (Aphelenchoides asterocaudatus, A. limberi, Aphelenchus avenae), and saprophagous nematodes (Aporcelaimellus obtusicaudatus, Chiloplacus symmetricus, Eucephalobus oxiuroides, Panagrolaimus rigidus), as well as in the invasion intensity of dominant endophytic species. Double treatment (tuber soaking and vegetative spraying) resulted in the complete absence of Pratylenchus pratensis in tubers. The preparation did not significantly affect tuber yield structure, although a trend toward increased tuber weight was noted compared to the infected control. These findings are promising for the development of biological nematicidal control methods. The article presents the results of examining a nematicidal preparation based on the predatory fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora against a complex of potato nematodes under vegetation experiment conditions. The preparation reduced the overall nematode population and partially limited the activity of dominant endophytic species Pratylenchus pratensis and Paratylenchus nanus.
Abstract: Summary: Potato cultivation is a crucial area in crop production, especially in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine, where agroecological conditions require effective plant protection strategies. Yield is influenced by numerous factors, one of which is infestation by phytonematodes. This is particularly relevant under irrigated farming conditions, which...
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Research Article
Assessment of Acute Ammonia Stress on Growth Performance, Hematological, Serological, and Histopathological Changes in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon Idella)
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
118-125
Received:
5 February 2025
Accepted:
9 May 2025
Published:
18 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20251403.15
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Abstract: Background: Fish are a vital source of high-energy nutrition, especially for economically disadvantaged populations. Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), prized for their quality meat, are widely consumed worldwide including in Pakistan. However, environmental ammonia pollution from aquaculture poses significant risks to their health, impacting physiological functions, growth, and survival. Understanding ammonia toxicity is crucial for sustainable aquaculture and environmental protection. Objectives: This research aimed to investigate the toxicity of ammonium hydroxide on the growth, hematological parameters, and histopathological changes in gills of grass carp. Methods: Grass carp were exposed to various concentrations of ammonium hydroxide (0, 1, 1.5, and 2 mg/L) for a duration of 14 days in glass aquaria. Growth performance, hematological parameters (including Hb, RBC, MCHC, WBC, MCV, MCH, and cholesterol levels), and serological parameters (such as bilirubin, creatinine, uric acid, SGPT, and alkaline phosphate) were assessed. Histopathological analysis of the gills was conducted to observe any abnormalities. Results: The results revealed that increased concentrations of ammonium hydroxide led to retarded growth in grass carp, with the lowest growth rate observed in the experimental group exposed to 2 mg/L of ammonium hydroxide and the highest growth rate in the control group (0 mg/L). Hematological parameters indicated a significant decrease in Hb, RBC, MCHC, and WBC counts with increasing levels of ammonium hydroxide, while MCV, MCH, and cholesterol levels increased. Serological parameters showed elevated levels of bilirubin, creatinine, uric acid, SGPT (ALT), and alkaline phosphate with increasing ammonium hydroxide concentrations. Histopathological analysis of the gills revealed significant effects, including chloride cell hyperplasia, sideway swimming, hyperemia, epithelial lifting, curling of secondary lamellae, lamellar fusion, and shortening of secondary lamellae.
Abstract: Background: Fish are a vital source of high-energy nutrition, especially for economically disadvantaged populations. Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), prized for their quality meat, are widely consumed worldwide including in Pakistan. However, environmental ammonia pollution from aquaculture poses significant risks to their health, impacting ph...
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Research Article
Determinants of the Uses and Conservation of Terminalia superba in Forest Guinea
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
126-132
Received:
2 May 2025
Accepted:
15 May 2025
Published:
18 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20251403.16
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Abstract: For centuries, human communities have relied on natural resources to satisfy their various needs (food, health, housing, etc.). Among these resources, Terminalia superba, a wood of high technological quality, is highly sought-after, which has led to strong pressure on its natural populations throughout its range, including Guinea. The present study assessed the factors determining the use and conservation of the species in Forest Guinea. Specifically, it aimed to i) assess the factors affecting the use values of T. superba, and ii) analyze the socio-economic factors controlling the conservation of Terminalia superba by rural communities. Data were collected on a random sample of 354 people in three prefectures (Lola, Macenta and N'Zérékoré) of Guinée Forestière. The relative frequency of users of the species (all forms of use combined) was calculated, and through a generalized linear model based on the Poisson distribution, the relationship between use values and respondents' socio-economic factors was analyzed. Logistic regression in a step-by-step selection approach was used to identify the factors controlling the retention of Terminalia superba plants in the fields. The relative frequency of use of Terminalia superba was 99.15%. The average number of uses reported per respondent was 1.92, with a coefficient of variation of 49.72%. Of all the factors involved, only gender had a significant effect on the number of uses reported, with men reporting more uses (mean = 1.97 and CV = 48.72%) than women (mean = 1.06 and CV = 22.91%). The final logistic regression model identified variables such as prefecture of residence, time spent in the village over 20 years, monthly income, main source of income, age category, marital status and level of education as factors controlling the retention of Terminalia superba plants by respondents in their fields. This study demonstrates the importance of the species and identifies the socio-economic factors of interest to be considered in programs for its valorization and conservation.
Abstract: For centuries, human communities have relied on natural resources to satisfy their various needs (food, health, housing, etc.). Among these resources, Terminalia superba, a wood of high technological quality, is highly sought-after, which has led to strong pressure on its natural populations throughout its range, including Guinea. The present study...
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