Effect of sowing techniques and harvesting treatments on the performances of some rotation pasture mixtures

The objective of this study was to test the performances of some promising forage crop mixtures for rotation pastures under Mediterranean ecological conditions. The study was conducted in the experimental area of Field Crops Department of Agriculture Faculty, Aegean University, Turkey in 2004 and 2005. Festuca arundinaceae Schreb., Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., Medicago sativa L., Trifolium repens L. and Lotus corniculatus L. seeds were mixed and sown in same or alternate rows in different combinations (Fa 75% + Ms 25%, Fa 75% + Tr 25%, Fa 70% + Lc 30%, Cd 65% + Tr 35%, Cd 35% + Tr 30% + Fa 35%). Harvesting treatments were carried out by cutting at the 25% blooming stage of legume component and grazing the sward height when it reached 15 - 20 cm. The results indicated that grazing was more favourable compared to cutting in terms of various sowing technologies and harvest treatments. Fa + Ms mixture sown in alternate rows performed better than other applications with regards to the average fresh biomass and hay yield.Key words: Pasture mixture, sowing technique, grazing, cuttin

Lessons learned from experiencing Mavi At Café (Blue Horse Café) during Six years: A qualitative analysis of factors contributing to recovery from the perspective of Schizophrenia patients

Objective: In recent years, the recovery-oriented approaches (along with experiences and thoughts of patients and patient's relatives) have been taken into account for establishing mental health services and policies. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to recovery, as observed from the perspective of schizophrenia patients working at The Blue Horse Café which was founded by the Federation of Schizophrenia Associations. Method: The sample for the study consisted of 24 patients who worked at The Blue Horse Café. A phenomenological approach was used in the study, whereby interviews with patients were analyzed qualitatively. Results: Certain common factors, which were expressed as having contributed to recovery, were identified from the perspective of schizophrenia patients. These factors are: 1-The fact that the setting is informal and welcoming without being constrictive; 2-Predominance of the human element; 3-Hope and encouragement; 4-Being cared about; 5-Being able to reach someone when in need of support; 6-Friendly sharing; 7-Having a purpose, assuming responsibility, and being motivated; and 8-Giving meaning to life. Conclusion: The findings may serve as a stimulus since schizophrenia patients that contribute to recovery give mental health professionals the opportunity to question there need for a change in their professional roles. Additionally, schizophrenia patients that have experienced The Blue Horse Café draw attention to certain points and these points can serve as a guide, especially for establishing the working methods of Community Mental Health Centers