scholarly journals Social-ecological analysis of timely rice planting in Eastern India

2021 ◽  
Vol 41 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anton Urfels ◽  
Andrew J. McDonald ◽  
Gerardo van Halsema ◽  
Paul C. Struik ◽  
Pankaj Kumar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Agricultural Development ◽  
Wildlife Conservation ◽  
Geographic Region ◽  
Critical Threshold ◽  
Enabling Factors ◽  
Gangetic Plains ◽  
Land Type ◽  
Groundwater Availability ◽  
Agricultural Input ◽  
First Time

AbstractTimely crop planting is a foundation for climate-resilient rice-wheat systems of the Eastern Gangetic Plains—a global food insecurity and poverty hotspot. We hypothesize that the capacity of individual farmers to plant on time varies considerably, shaped by multifaceted enabling factors and constraints that are poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, two complementary datasets were used to characterize drivers and decision processes that govern the timing of rice planting in this region. The first dataset was a large agricultural management survey (rice-wheat: n = 15,245; of which rice: n = 7597) from a broad geographic region that was analyzed by machine learning methods. The second dataset was a discussion-based survey (n = 112) from a more limited geography that we analyzed with graph theory tools to elicit nuanced information on planting decisions. By combining insights from these methods, we show for the first time that differences in rice planting times are primarily shaped by ecosystem and climate factors while social factors play a prominent secondary role. Monsoon onset, surface and groundwater availability, and land type determine village-scale mean planting times whereas, for resource-constrained farmers who tend to plant later ceteris paribus, planting is further influenced by access to farm machinery, seed, fertilizer, and labor. Also, a critical threshold for economically efficient pumping appears at a groundwater depth of around 4.5 m; below this depth, farmers do not irrigate and delay planting. Without collective action to spread risk through synchronous timely planting, ecosystem factors such as threats posed by pests and wild animals may further deter early planting by individual farmers. Accordingly, we propose a three-pronged strategy that combines targeted strengthening of agricultural input chains, agroadvisory development, and coordinated rice planting and wildlife conservation to support climate-resilient agricultural development in the Eastern Gangetic Plains.

scholarly journals Modeling noise mechanisms in neuronal synaptic transmission

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abhyudai Singh
Keyword(s):  
Action Potential ◽  
Synaptic Transmission ◽  
Action Potentials ◽  
Spike Timing ◽  
Critical Threshold ◽  
Model Parameters ◽  
Postsynaptic Neuron ◽  
Presynaptic Neuron ◽  
Vesicle Release ◽  
First Time

In the nervous system, communication occurs via synaptic transmission where signaling molecules (neurotransmitters) are released by the presynaptic neuron, and they influence electrical activity of another neuron (postsynaptic neuron). The inherent probabilistic release of neurotransmitters is a significant source of noise that critically impacts the timing of spikes (action potential) in the postsynaptic neuron. We develop a stochastic model that incorporates noise mechanisms in synaptic transmission, such as, random docking of neurotransmitter-filled vesicle to a finite number of docking sites, with each site having a probability of vesicle release upon arrival of an action potential. This random, burst-like release of neurotransmitters serves as an input to an integrate-and-fire model, where spikes in the postsynaptic neuron are triggered when its membrane potential reaches a critical threshold for the first time. We derive novel analytical results for the probability distribution function of spike timing, and systematically investigate how underlying model parameters and noise processes regulate variability in the inter-spike times. Interestingly, in some parameter regimes, independent arrivals of action potentials in the presynaptic neuron generate strong dependencies in the spike timing of the postsynaptic neuron. Finally, we argue that probabilistic release of neurotransmitters is not only a source of disturbance, but plays a beneficial role in synaptic information processing.

scholarly journals Assessment of socio-economic risks by method of extremely critical (threshold) indicators

POPULATION ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 24 (3) ◽  
pp. 8-17
Author(s):  
Vyacheslav Lokosov
Keyword(s):  
Social System ◽  
Risk Indicators ◽  
Critical Threshold ◽  
Past Century ◽  
Russian Society ◽  
Progressive Development ◽  
Transitional State ◽  
First Time ◽  
Economic Risks

Method of extremely critical (threshold) indicators of social development, including assessment of socio-economic risks, has been developed in the national sociology, economics, and other social sciences about three decades. For the first time development of the method as a scientific problem was stated in 1994, and there was made an attempt to construct such scale of indicators. Development of the method is going productively. There have been published a series of research works, dissertations that directly or indirectly develop or apply this method, propose different variants of constructing a scale of indicators. We have three basic components of situation diagnosis: the existing social system, the risks (challenges, threats) hampering progressive development of this system, and the extremely critical values of the risk indicators, a certain "red line", going beyond which means an increase in the probability of radical changes and further— collapse of the existing system, its transitional state and reorganization. The research and management tasks are to counteract such risks and to prevent entry of the society into the critical zone; or vice versa, to stimulate transformation of the system. The article provides an assessment of the socio-economic risks by method of extremely critical (threshold) indicators that leads to conclusion about a certain, far from complete and sufficient departure of the Russian society from the critical line of the 90s of the past century, and therefore about a tendency to reduction of the risk of another dismantlement of the existing social system. Along with these positive changes, dangerous disproportions and critical risks remain in many socio-economic indicators, primarily related to demography, population health, standards and quality of life.

scholarly journals Fauna diversity in the southern part of the Kon Ka Kinh National Park, Gia Lai province

2021 ◽  
Vol 43 (4) ◽  
pp. 139-151
Author(s):  
Nguyen Ai Tam ◽  
Nguyen Van Tay ◽  
Nguyen Thi Kim Yen ◽  
Ha Thang Long
Keyword(s):  
National Park ◽  
Wildlife Conservation ◽  
Animal Species ◽  
Infrared Camera ◽  
Camera Trap ◽  
Iucn Red List ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
Survey Results ◽  
Set Up ◽  
First Time

Kon Ka Kinh National Park (KKK NP) is a priority zone for biodiversity protection in Vietnam as well as ASEAN. In order to survey the current fauna species diversity in the southern part of the KKK NP, we conducted camera trapping surveys in 2017, 2018, and 2019. 28 infrared camera traps were set up on elevations between 1041 to 1497 meters. In total, there were 360 days of survey using camera trap. As result, we recorded a total of 27 animal species of those, five species are listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN, 2020). The survey results showed a high richness of wildlife in the southern park region, and it also revealed human disturbance to wildlife in the park. The first-time camera trap was used for surveying wildlife diversity in the southern region of the KKK NP. Conducting camera trap surveys in the whole KKK NP is essential for monitoring and identifying priority areas for wildlife conservation in the national park.

Conservation agriculture in Africa: climate smart agricultural development

2022 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Soil Structure ◽  
Agricultural Development ◽  
Scientific Evidence ◽  
Conservation Agriculture ◽  
Conventional Farming ◽  
The Public ◽  
Decision Making Processes ◽  
First Time ◽  
Building Policy ◽  
Agenda 2063

Abstract This book is about Conservation Agriculture (the use of no tillage systems) to preserve soil structure and integrity. It has become an increasingly important step towards sustainable farming. This publication brings together conservation agriculture and climate smart decision making processes for the first time, focusing on Africa. This book brings to the fore scientific and empirical evidence about Conservation Agriculture in Africa, articulated by the Second Africa Congress on Conservation Agriculture (2ACCA) held in Johannesburg in 2018. It describes how farmers in Africa are successfully adopting Conservation Agriculture as an alternative to the unsustainable conventional farming practices and as a solution to loss of agricultural productivity, soil erosion and land degradation, climate change challenges and ever-increasing food insecurity. This work discusses how Conservation Agriculture can support the implementation of the African Union's Malabo Declaration and Agenda 2063 which calls for climate smart agricultural development. It provides development-oriented case studies and scientific evidence relevant to all stakeholders in the public, private and civil sectors who are engaged in building policy, institutional and human capacity to accelerate the mainstreaming of Conservation Agriculture across Africa.

Biodiversity of heat-resistant ascomycetes from semi-arid soils in Argentina

Mycotaxon ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 135 (3) ◽  
pp. 535-558
Author(s):  
Stella Maris Romero ◽  
Andrea Irene Romero ◽  
Alberto Miguel Stchigel ◽  
Ernesto Rodríguez Andrade ◽  
Viviana Andrea Barrera ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Shock ◽  
Molecular Data ◽  
Geographic Region ◽  
Soil Samples ◽  
Arid Soils ◽  
Fungal Strains ◽  
Heat Resistant ◽  
La Rioja ◽  
First Time ◽  
Semi Arid

Artificial thermal shock conducted on 50 soil samples from a semi-arid geographic region (Catamarca and La Rioja provinces) in northern Argentina yielded 34 heat-resistant fungal strains. These strains were assigned to seventeen taxa in ten ascomycete genera: Arthrinium (1), Aspergillus (3), Epicoccum (1), Gilmaniella (1), Hamigera (2), Leiothecium (1), Penicillium (2), Talaromyces (4), Trichocladium (1), and Trichoderma (1). All strains were identified by phenotypic features, with molecular data additionally obtained for eleven strains. Five species are reported for the first time in Argentina.

Ideology and Politics in Economic Planning: The Problem of Indian Agricultural Development Strategy

1967 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 621-645 ◽  
Author(s):  
Francine R. Frankel
Keyword(s):  
Economic Development ◽  
Development Strategy ◽  
Agricultural Development ◽  
Development Planning ◽  
Economic Planning ◽  
Economic Development Strategy ◽  
Final Draft ◽  
Policies And Programs ◽  
First Time

For the first time since independence, economic planners in India are experiencing a serious crisis of confidence. Although there has always been some debate on alternative policies and programs, the central assumptions of development planning have remained unchallenged since the 1930's. Now, in contrast, the very core of economic development strategy has become the target of open and bitter criticism. The final draft of the Fourth Five Year Plan has been delayed for more than a year, and the end of fundamental disagreements seems nowhere in sight.

scholarly journals Herbicides and Zero Tillage in South Asia: Are we creating a gendered problem?

2021 ◽  
pp. 003072702110138
Author(s):  
B Brown ◽  
E Karki ◽  
A Sharma ◽  
B Suri ◽  
A Chaudhary
Keyword(s):  
South Asia ◽  
Weed Management ◽  
Agricultural Development ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Conservation Agriculture ◽  
Sub Saharan Africa ◽  
Clear Understanding ◽  
Zero Tillage ◽  
Tillage Systems ◽  
Gangetic Plains

Substantial efforts have been devoted to the promotion of Zero Tillage as part of a Conservation Agriculture based Sustainable Intensification agenda in the Eastern Gangetic Plains of South Asia, yet there is no clear understanding of the gendered implications of the required change in weed management practices from tillage to herbicides. Other geographies such as in Sub-Saharan Africa have shown evidence that transitioning to Zero Tillage may have unbalanced gendered implications that burden women with additional tasks or lead to lessening agency. To address this, a targeted in-depth study with both spouses was implemented in 24 households across Bangladesh, India and Nepal over a period of 5 weeks during crop establishment to understand the perceptions, responsibilities, and knowledge of household spouses who have adopted Zero Tillage systems. This data is used to compare their weeding responsibilities and knowledge between their Pre- and post- Zero Tillage uptake. Findings indicate that the switch to Zero Tillage contributed to substantial time savings in India and Nepal and did not lead to any reallocation or increased burden of roles and responsibilities to women in any of the surveyed localities, while knowledge on weed management practices were balanced among spouses. This research suggests that the gendered experiences of users of Zero Tillage systems and subsequent use of herbicides in investigated locations may differ from Zero Tillage user experience in other geographies, in that Zero Tillage use did not reinforce or deepen existing inequalities within households. This highlights that Zero Tillage may provide an inclusive agricultural development pathway in the Eastern Gangetic Plains of South Asia.

scholarly journals A Simple PCR Method for Rapid Genotype Analysis ofMycobacterium ulcerans

2000 ◽  
Vol 38 (4) ◽  
pp. 1482-1487 ◽  
Author(s):  
Timothy Stinear ◽  
John K. Davies ◽  
Grant A. Jenkin ◽  
Françoise Portaels ◽  
Bruce C. Ross ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pcr Amplification ◽  
Geographic Region ◽  
Mycobacterium Ulcerans ◽  
Geographic Origins ◽  
Pcr Products ◽  
Total Dna ◽  
Pcr Method ◽  
Clonal Population Structure ◽  
Tissue Specimens ◽  
First Time

Two high-copy-number insertion sequences, IS2404 and IS2606, were recently identified in Mycobacterium ulcerans and were shown by Southern hybridization to possess restriction fragment length polymorphism between strains from different geographic origins. We have designed a simple genotyping method that captures these differences by PCR amplification of the region between adjacent copies of IS2404 and IS2606. We have called this system 2426 PCR. The method is rapid, reproducible, sensitive, and specific for M. ulcerans, and it has confirmed previous studies suggesting a clonal population structure ofM. ulcerans within a geographic region. M. ulcerans isolates from Australia, Papua New Guinea, Malaysia, Surinam, Mexico, Japan, China, and several countries in Africa were easily differentiated based on an array of 4 to 14 PCR products ranging in size from 200 to 900 bp. Numerical analysis of the banding patterns suggested a close evolutionary link between M. ulceransisolates from Africa and southeast Asia. The application of 2426 PCR to total DNA, extracted directly from M. ulcerans-infected tissue specimens without culture, demonstrated the sensitivity and specificity of this method and confirmed for the first time that both animal and human isolates from areas of endemicity in southeast Australia have the same genotype.

Bopyrinella hadrocoxalis sp. nov. and Loki circumsaltanus Markham (Isopoda: Bopyridae) parasitizing shrimps of the genus Thor (Decapoda: Thoridae) in Mexican waters

Zootaxa ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 4808 (3) ◽  
pp. 560-570
Author(s):  
JESÚS ROMERO-RODRÍGUEZ ◽  
FERNANDO ÁLVAREZ
Keyword(s):  
Gulf Of Mexico ◽  
Coastal Area ◽  
Caribbean Sea ◽  
Geographic Region ◽  
Quintana Roo ◽  
First Time

Two bopyrid species parasitizing shrimps of the genus Thor along the Mexican coasts of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea are known: Bopyrinella thorii, attaching in the hosts’ branchial chambers, and Loki circumsaltanus, attaching to the hosts´ abdomens. Herein, Bopyrinella hadrocoxalis sp. nov. is described, becoming the second described species of the genus in this geographic region. It is found parasitizing Thor manningi in a coastal area in Quintana Roo, Mexico. Loki circumsaltanus is recorded for the first time parasitizing Thor floridanus in Mexican waters; the oostegites, maxilliped and barbula are described and illustrated for the first time.  

The effect of enabling factors on social innovation in Russian non-profit organisations

2019 ◽  
Vol 39 (5/6) ◽  
pp. 447-463 ◽  
Author(s):  
Irina Krasnopolskaya ◽  
Lucas Meijs
Keyword(s):  
Social Innovation ◽  
Organizational Factors ◽  
Enabling Factors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Non Profit ◽  
Grass Roots ◽  
Governmental Policy ◽  
Social Innovations ◽  
Quantitative Verification ◽  
First Time

Purpose This paper explores the factors that are associated with a capacity of non-profits to develop social innovations (SIs). The purpose of this paper is to examine factors in the Russian national context with weak non-profit sector with an ambiguous governmental policy toward the sector. Design/methodology/approach The study is based on survey data (n=850 NPOs, 2015, Russia). The paper analyses the likelihood of a non-profit to introduce SIs due to external framework and organizational factors. Regression analysis was applied in the study. The study is based on a new sampling approach and examines non-profits as producers of SIs, but not cases of SIs per se. Findings The results demonstrate that the capacity of an NPO to develop SIs is explained by the following enabling factors: cross-boundary collaborative relations, volunteer involvement and diversity of the revenue structure. Composition of innovative sub-sector, opportunities and chances of getting into this group are explicitly determined and regulated by the current governmental policy toward the sector. That is that large and established non-profits are more likely to be innovative in Russia, unlike expected grass-roots. Originality/value The paper applies a theoretical framework to analyze the SI concept in a non-western context with weak civil society and an influential government. From this perspective, the results present empirical quantitative verification of the determinants of SI capacity of NPOs. The paper is among the first to apply a reverse sampling principle and examine SIs via NPOs as producers. The paper produced, for the first time, an empirical description of the nature of innovative activity by NPOs and an estimation of the extent of this activity in Russia.

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