scholarly journals How Maize Seed Systems Can Contribute to the Control of Mycotoxigenic Fungal Infection: A Perspective

Agronomy ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (11) ◽  
pp. 2168
Author(s):  
P. Christiaan Biemond ◽  
Tjeerd Jan Stomph ◽  
P. Lava Kumar ◽  
Paul C. Struik
Keyword(s):  
Fungal Infection ◽  
Value Chain ◽  
Animal Health ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Seed Systems ◽  
Main Mode ◽  
Maize Seeds ◽  
Agricultural Produce ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Mycotoxigenic Fungi

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi on agricultural produce. Mycotoxins can be cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, and teratogenic, and they are persistent threats to human and animal health. Consumption of mycotoxin-contaminated maize can cause cancer and even sudden death. Health hazards can also occur from consuming products from animals fed with mycotoxin-contaminated feed or forage. The main mode of spread of mycotoxigenic fungi is through air-borne spores originating from soil or plant debris, although some fungi can also spread through infected seed-to-seedling transmission, ultimately followed by contamination of the harvestable product. This perspective assesses opportunities to prevent mycotoxigenic fungal infection in maize seeds produced for sowing as an important starting point of crop contamination. A case study of Nigeria showed infection in all tested farmer-produced, seed company, and foundation seed samples. A schematic overview of the formal and informal seed systems is presented to analyze their contribution to fungal infection and mycotoxin contamination in the maize value chain, as well as to set criteria for successful control. We recommend an integrated approach to control mycotoxigenic fungal infection, including resistant varieties and other control methods during seed production, grain production, and grain storage, with an important role in maintaining seed health.

Fungal and Mycotoxin Contamination of Stored Maize in Kogi, Northcentral Nigeria: An Implication for Public Health

2019 ◽  
pp. 220-232 ◽  
Author(s):  
O. N. Akoma ◽  
C. C. Ezeh ◽  
K. I. Chukwudozie ◽  
C. C. Iwuchukwu ◽  
D. O. Apeh
Keyword(s):  
Value Chain ◽  
High Performance ◽  
Animal Health ◽  
Storage Conditions ◽  
Fungal Species ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Quality And Safety ◽  
Toxigenic Fungi ◽  
Maize Seeds ◽  
Health And Economic Development

The maize value chain in the Kogi State and most parts of the country from where maize is purchased into the State lacks mechanisms that ensure grain quality and safety. Against the above-backdrop, this study was designed to evaluate toxigenic fungi and associated mycotoxins in maize produced within different agro-zones of Kogi State. Harvested and stored maize seeds under different storage conditions were collected from three different zones (Zone B Bassa, Zone C Lokoja, and Zone D Idah) and cultured. Different fungal species were isolated by culturing using the spread plate technique on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and identified microscopically. Mycotoxin production by isolated fungi was subsequently evaluated for Deoxynivalenol (DON) contamination using the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography technique (HPLC). The outcome of the study was statistically analysed using simple frequencies and percentages. Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. were the fungi found to be associated with the stored seeds in Kogi, while Fusarium spp. Mucor spp. and Rhizopus spp. were the field fungi identified. Of the thirteen samples collected, the most common genera were Aspergillus (isolated from 41.67% of the evaluated samples), Fusarium (27%) and in a lesser extent Rhizopus spp. (8.33%). The result also shows DON was detected in 92.3% of the stored maize samples, making it one of the widespread mycotoxin contaminants of maize grain. Implications of this study for human and animal health and economic development were discussed and appropriate recommendations made especially for adoption of proper storage technology among small-scale farmers for improved maize quality and safety.

scholarly journals Possibilities of establishing a smallholder pig identification and traceability system in Kenya

2019 ◽  
Vol 52 (2) ◽  
pp. 859-870
Author(s):  
Florence Mutua ◽  
Johanna Lindahl ◽  
Delia Randolph
Keyword(s):  
Value Chain ◽  
Animal Health ◽  
Health Production ◽  
Western Kenya ◽  
Traceability System ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Animal Identification ◽  
World Organization ◽  
Beef Value Chain ◽  
Initial Focus

Abstract Consumers have a right to safer foods, and traceability is one approach to meeting their expectations. Kenya does not have an operational animal traceability system, and while a few initiatives have been piloted, these have only focused on the beef value chain. In this paper, we begin a discussion on traceability in the pig value chain, with an initial focus on smallholder systems of Western Kenya. First, a background to local pig production is given, and a description of animal identification and traceability options applicable to these systems is explained. Based on this, a “butcher-to-farm” traceability system, with health, production and food safety as objectives, is discussed. Requirements for establishing such a system (including actor incentives) are additionally discussed. The proposed approach can be piloted in the field and findings used to inform the design of a larger pilot and possibly pave way for implementation of a national traceability system, in line with the guidelines provided by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). Organized systems in the area (including commercial producer and trader groups) would offer a useful starting point.

Toward a transdisciplinary integration of research purposes and methods for complex dynamic systems theory: beyond the quantitative–qualitative divide

2021 ◽  
Vol 0 (0) ◽  
Author(s):  
Phil Hiver ◽  
Ali H. Al-Hoorie ◽  
Diane Larsen-Freeman
Keyword(s):  
Systems Theory ◽  
Dynamic Systems ◽  
Applied Linguistics ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Dynamic Systems Theory ◽  
Complex Dynamic ◽  
Transdisciplinary Approach ◽  
Complex Dynamic Systems ◽  
Human And Social Sciences ◽  
Starting Point

Abstract Complexity theory/dynamic systems theory has challenged conventional approaches to applied linguistics research by encouraging researchers to adopt a pragmatic transdisciplinary approach that is less paradigmatic and more problem-oriented in nature. Its proponents have argued that the starting point in research design should not be the quantitative–qualitative distinction, or even mixed methods, but the distinction between individual versus group-based designs (i.e., idiographic versus nomothetic). Taking insights from transdisciplinary complexity research in other human and social sciences, we propose an integrative transdisciplinary framework that unites these different perspectives (quantitative–qualitative, individual–group based) from the starting point of exploratory–falsificatory aims. We discuss the implications of this transdisciplinary approach to applied linguistics research and illustrate how such an integrated approach might be implemented in the field.

The new strategic orientation in innovating hospitality logistics system

2014 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
pp. 195-206
Author(s):  
Christian Stipanović ◽  
Elena Rudan
Keyword(s):  
Value Chain ◽  
Hospitality Industry ◽  
Dynamic Environment ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Loop Model ◽  
Modern Logistics ◽  
Resource Base ◽  
Intangible Resources ◽  
Strategic Orientations ◽  
Starting Point

Purpose – This paper investigates ways how to innovate logistics processes in the hospitality industry aimed at achieving spatio - temporal transformation of resource base into competitive advantages based on innovation and quality. Economic goal of modern logistics based on knowledge is to provide a unique experience for tourists at minimum cost in order to multiply operational profit. Operational profit has to be largely reinvested in the new strategic orientations as well as in new intangible resources generating excellence and recognizability of hospitality services. Design – The paper defines current and future ways of logistics processes optimization as well as strategies in the hospitality industry aimed at generating excellence both for tourists and sustainable development. It analyzes the role of knowledge management in the reconception of logistics processes based on the new strategic orientations in synergy with other business processes involved in the transformation of a classical company into a learning organization Methodology –Recent scientific literature is critically analyzed in the paper (hospitality logistics systems, new strategic orientations) and practical examples (various forms of Croatian hotels and hospitality companies) and determines the views of the authors referring to the new qualitative trends of modern logistics and sustainable value chain and excellence as a prerequisite for the development of a hospitality company. The causal loop model is used for generating significance of new strategic orientations aimed at innovation of logistics processes in the hospitality industry in a dynamic environment. Findings – The paper emphasizes the importance of intangible resources and new strategic orientations in new qualitative trends used in logistics management processes. It presents a starting point for the future research works to solve specific problem situations in practice. Originality – The paper suggests and provides arguments for concrete proposals applied in optimization of logistics processes based on knowledge and information (risk management in generating business decisions) and new strategic orientations and it also raises questions to anticipate future changes in the development of logistics processes and strategies.

scholarly journals Antifungal activities of thiosemicarbazones and semicarbazones against mycotoxigenic fungi

2014 ◽  
Vol 38 (6) ◽  
pp. 531-537 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rojane de Oliveira Paiva ◽  
Lucimar Ferreira Kneipp ◽  
Carla Marins Goular ◽  
Mariana Almeida Albuquerque ◽  
Aurea Echevarria
Keyword(s):  
Antifungal Activity ◽  
Aspergillus Flavus ◽  
Fungicidal Activity ◽  
Fusarium Verticillioides ◽  
Animal Health ◽  
Fungistatic Activity ◽  
Mycotoxigenic Fungi ◽  
Quality Of Food ◽  
Chelating Effect

Mycotoxigenic fungi can compromise the quality of food, exposing human and animal health at risk. The antifungal activity of eight thiosemicarbazones (1-8) and nine semicarbazones (9-17) was evaluated against Aspergillus flavus, A. nomius, A. ochraceus, A. parasiticus and Fusarium verticillioides. Thiosemicarbazones had MIC values of 125-500 µg/ml. The thiosemicarbazones 1 and 2 exerted fungistatic activity against Aspergillus spp., and thiosemicarbazone 2 exerted fungicidal activity against F. verticillioides. Compound 2 showed an iron chelating effect of 63%. The ergosterol content of A. parasiticus had a decrease of 28 and 71% for the 31.2 and 62.5 µg/ml concentrations of thiosemicarbazone 2 compared to the control. The obtained results of antifungal activity revealed that thiosemicarbazone class was more active when compared to semicarbazone class and, the thiosemicarbazone 2 was the most active compound, specially, against Aspergillus spp.

scholarly journals The Housing Market Value Chain: An Integrated Approach for Mitigating Risk in Informal Residential Construction in Haiti

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (19) ◽  
pp. 8006
Author(s):  
Christianos Burlotos ◽  
Tracy L. Kijewski-Correa ◽  
Alexandros A. Taflanidis
Keyword(s):  
Housing Market ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Value Chain ◽  
Market Value ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Residential Construction ◽  
Implementation Framework ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Economic Constraints ◽  
Market Value Chain

Access to dignified housing represents a critical challenge for many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Technical and economic constraints frequently lead homeowners in these countries toward incrementally-constructed homes, which are often proven deadly when exposed to seismic or meteorological hazards. This paper offers a holistic analysis of the informal residential construction industry contextualized in Léogâne, Haiti, the effective epicenter of the 2010 Haiti earthquake, and offers an implementation framework geared towards integrating the housing delivery process to accommodate more resilient typologies. First, the concept of the housing ecosystem is introduced, and a thorough analysis of the technical, economic, and political factors that constrain this ecosystem in Haiti is presented. The defining elements of the resulting residential construction industry are then discussed: An informal blend of Design-Build and Master Builder methods of project delivery for incrementally-constructed (and largely masonry) permanent homes. The housing ecosystem is then redefined as a seven-step housing market value chain, and interventions to further strengthen and integrate this value chain are presented for each of the seven steps. Interventions are grounded in analogous contexts and refactored specifically for the Haitian case study scenario through extensive co-creation with stakeholders in Haiti. Particular focus is given to the Léogâne Community Building Fund, a concept designed to democratize housing finance for low to middle-income groups. When implemented in an integrated fashion, risks across this housing market value chain are effectively mitigated to sustainably deliver dignified housing through a market-based approach suitable for Haiti and extensible to other LMICs.

scholarly journals ELEMENTS OF SOURCING STRATEGIES IN FM SERVICES - A MULTIPLE CASE STUDY

2006 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 249-267 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tomi Ventovuori
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Geographical Area ◽  
Multiple Case Study ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Strategy Development ◽  
Sourcing Strategies ◽  
Sourcing Strategy ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Multiple Case

The aim of this paper is to identify the different elements of the sourcing strategy decision‐making process and to clarify what are the factors that lead to the selection of a certain sourcing strategy in FM services. The study is based on a literature review and a multiple case study, which was conducted with four organizations representing different types of FM service clients. To find the optimal sourcing strategy and understand the consequences of different sourcing options, five decision categories must be analysed: sourcing interface, organizational decision‐making, the scope of service package, the geographical area of sourcing and relationship type. There are also some other elements that must be taken into account in the process of sourcing strategy development such as different elements of business in general and the prevailing market conditions. It is strongly suggested that companies could apply the presented integrated approach as a starting point for the development of sourcing strategies in FM services. In addition, this study shows that companies should view the development of sourcing strategies as an important phase of the procurement cycle.

Micro-Firms and the Margins of Entrepreneurship

2007 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 281-292 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dieter Bögenhold ◽  
Uwe Fachinger
Keyword(s):  
Labour Market ◽  
Social Stratification ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Small Business Owners ◽  
Wide Field ◽  
Job Seeking ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Experimental Market ◽  
Key Issues ◽  
The One

This paper deals with the margins of entrepreneurship at which small business owners are working almost on their own with no or very few employees, and where some work for low returns and run firms that lack stability and/or prosperous dynamics. However, even the area of ‘entrepreneurship at the margins’ is a wide field, embracing not only the broad margins of entrepreneurship but also the fluid borders between entrepreneurship and the informal sector on the one side and the labour market system on the other. New firms – even those that are ultimately very successful – may be more or less created in an experimental market and product testing phase, in which business founders are still employed or registered as unemployed before becoming self-employed. In such cases, the practical starting-point of an entrepreneurial existence is part of a fluent continuum of different activities closely connected to the entrepreneur's sphere of dependent work as an employee or job-seeking during a period of unemployment. The paper addresses this area of entrepreneurship within an integrated framework, which combines entrepreneurship analysis with labour market research and studies on social stratification and social mobility. It contributes to the debate on entrepreneurship at the margins by combining selected empirical information on the case of Germany with conceptual ideas of a labour market perspective. The integrated approach highlights some key issues and raises further questions about the field of entrepreneurship.

AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO THE PROVISION OF SAFETY OF LIVESTOCK PRODUCTS IN THE CONDITIONS OF TECHNOGENIC PRESSURE

2019 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 114-120
Author(s):  
L. L. Zakharova ◽  
◽  
G. A. Zhorov ◽  
V. N. Obryvin ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Animal Health ◽  
Effective Means ◽  
Animal Husbandry ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
The Body ◽  
Stress Factors ◽  
Trophic Chain ◽  
Anthropogenic Pressure ◽  
Vitamin Deficiencies ◽  
Livestock Breeding

In the conditions of increasing anthropogenic pressure on the environment, the issues of developing and applying effective means and methods for preventing the admission and cumulation of xenobiotics in the organism of animals and the products obtained become of high importance. At the same time, it is necessary to solve such issues as deficiencies of micro and macro elements in soils, feed and the body, the effect of oxidative stress, immune deficiency and other problems that are closely interrelated with the effect of ecotoxicants on the body. The solution of practical problems of preserving animal health and producing safe products in ecologically unfavorable regions consists in the development of an integrated livestock breeding system, which allows minimizing the migration of a particular ecotoxicant in the trophic chain soil-feed-animal-production and compensating for negative processes developing in the body of animals as a result of exposure of harmful environmental factors, mineral and vitamin deficiencies and imbalances in rations, chronic effects of stress factors, immunodeficiency, etc. The article presents a set of measures to ensure the production of safe products in the conduct of animal husbandry in regions with high anthropogenic load, the main attention is paid to the development of compositions of sorption-detoxifying agents and private technologies of their application

Information Management Systems in the Supply Chain

2017 ◽  
pp. 469-485
Author(s):  
Maria José Sousa ◽  
Rui Cruz ◽  
Ivo Dias ◽  
Carla Caracol
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Customer Service ◽  
Value Chain ◽  
Information Exchange ◽  
Information Technologies ◽  
Business Processes ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Raw Material ◽  
Information Management Systems

This chapter analyzes the importance of technologies as drivers for managing supply chains. The focus will be on the advantages of the use of information technologies to improve company's efficiency to be competitive and for the reduction of costs, improvement of operations, improvement of relationships with customers, suppliers and partners, shortening of delivering times, streamlining and optimization of business processes and operations. The use of new technologies contributes to improve efficiency of supply chain management: raw material suppliers, component manufacturers, finished product manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. Technologies allow an integrated approach to planning, control and monitoring of product flows, from suppliers to end users. They aim at improve customer service at reduced overall costs, and leads to the development of important relationships with logistics providers, suppliers, and customers in order to enhance information exchange and the coordination of business activities, which are the key advantages of an integrated supply chain with the collaboration among all the participants in the value chain.

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