bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAF MEAL ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND FECAL BACTERIAL COUNT IN BROILER CHICKS
Authors: OLOBATOKE R. , OLOGBONYO R. , ALPHONSUS C. , ANOH K. , OPOOLA E.
Published: December 2024

Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPS) have been an integral part of the poultry industry for more than sixty years. The AGPs were however suspected to cause cross and multiple antibiotic resistances, leading to a ban on their use in broiler nutrition. Phytogenic additives in animal nutrition have thus attracted attention for their potential role as alternatives to AGPS. Moringa oleifera is known to possess important medicinal properties including antibacterial and antifungal activities. This experiment, which was carried out in a rural part of Kogi State of Nigeria, was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal (MOLM) on the growth performance and fecal bacterial count of broiler chicks. A total of 48 day-old Abor acre commercial broiler chickens were used. They were randomly allotted to 4 dietary treatment groups in a complete randomized design experiment, each treatment consisting of three replicates, with four birds per replicate. The dietary treatments were maize-based commercial starter ration supplemented with MOLM at levels of 0% (T1 = control), 2.5% (T2), 5% (T3) and 7.5% (T4) respectively. Inclusion of MOLM in broiler starter diets resulted in a non-significant but steady improvement in feed intake of birds with increase in the inclusion level of MOLM. There was also a non-significant improvement in the final weight, weight gain and feed conversion efficiency of starter birds placed on diets enriched with MOLM, with the control group having the highest FCR and feed cost per gram of meat produced. There was however no noticeable effect of MOLM on fecal bacterial count of the chicks. Moringa oleiferaLeaf Meal can therefore be added to broiler diets particularly at 5% level for the purpose of improving the feed conversion efficiency of the chicks which may also result in reduced feed cost.
INFLUENCE OF QUALITATIVE TRAITS ON MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS IN WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOAT IN ORUK ANAM L.G.A. OF AKWA IBOM STATE
Authors: SAM I. M. , EKPO J. S. , UKPANAH U. , AEYOH G. D.
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted to assess the prevalence of qualitative traits and their influence on morphometric traits. A total of 499 West African Dwarf (WAD) goats were used comprising of 113 and 386 males and females respectively. The qualitative and morphometric traits were identified and their associations were assessed. The distribution and frequencies of qualitative traits were investigated and scored for presence or absence of wattle (Waw or Wa+), beard (Brb or Br+), horn (Ho+ or Hop). Four coat colours were observed, the white, white/black, black and mixed colour (white, black and brown). There was a high preponderance of white coat colour (56.51%) followed by white/black (31.06%), the frequencies of black and mixed colour were similar 6.21%. The frequency of wattle was low 0.4%, beard was presence in both sexes although a higher frequency was observed in males (56.88%), horn was equally presence in both sexes. The presence of wattle had no influence on morphometric traits, whereas goats with beard and horn were significantly (p < 0.05) superior in body length, Heart girth and height at wither. Sex significantly (P<0.05) influenced the morphometric traits measured. The significant effect of beard and horn on morphometric traits in this study indicates that beard and horn may be important factors to consider in making selection and culling decisions in WAD goats.
CHARACTERIZATION OF DONKEYS IN NORTH WEST NIGERIA USING COAT COLOUR AND HAIR TYPES
Authors: JOHN A. P. , AKPA G. N. , IYIOLA-TUNJI A. O.
Published: December 2024

One hundred donkeys were sampled from each of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara and Kebbi State to make a total of 700 sample size for characterization of domestic donkeys in North- West Nigeria using coat colour and hair types among Red (Auraki), Black (Duni), White (Fari) and Brown (Idabari) strains of donkeys. Coat colour and hair types of donkeys was tabulated using frequency procedure while their distribution was tested using Chi Square of SAS. Distances were used to construct a dendogram using the Unweighted Pairs Group Method Analysis implemented in R 2.13.0. Coat colours and hair types were significantly (P<0.01) distributed among donkeys in the studied population. The most prominent coat colour observable among donkeys in North West of Nigeria was Brown (86%) with confidence level between 85 and 87%. The most occurring hair type was short-smooth (75%) with confidence interval between 71 and 78%. The other variants of coat colours were short-rough (14%) and long-curly (11%). Two major clusters were formed. The first cluster showed close relationship between Red (Auraki) and Black (Duni) donkeys. The second cluster was further divided into two sub-groups with Brown (Idabari) as leader and White (Fari) as joiner. The dendogram indicated that the Idabari-Fari was more closely related with Idabari than with Fari and also indicated that Auraki and Duni are closer and similar for hair type but are distant from Idabari, Idabari-fari and Fari. Apart from coat colour, classification of donkeys on the basis of hair type should be developed using morphological, biochemical and molecular techniques.
CARCASS YIELD AND GUT CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED GRADED LEVELS OF COOKED COWPEA (Vigna unguiculata L Wolf)
Authors: MAIDALA A. , MAHMUD M. , ADAMU M.
Published: December 2024

An experiment was conducted to assess the effect of replacing soyabean with cowpea seeds on blood parameters of broiler chickens Two hundred Anak 2000 one week old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments in which cowpea seeds replace soyabean at 0%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50%, each treatment was replicated four (4) times with ten birds per replicate in a Complete Randomized Design (CRD). Results showed that live weight (2200-2750g), slaughter weight (90.68- 96.83%), pluck weight (90.18-94.67%), dressed, weight (65.73-71.00%), thigh weight (14.26- 13.94%), wings (4.44-4.97%) and pectoral muscle (9.45-11.65%) were affected by the different levels of cooked cowpea seeds. Similarly gizzard (0.81-1.15%), liver (1.26-1.74%) and abdominal fat (1.54- 2.43%) were affected by the different levels of cooked cowpea seeds. Cooked cowpea seeds can be incorporated up to 30% in the diet of broiler chickens without deleterious effects on carcass yield and gut characteristics
NUTRIGENETIC EFFECT OF Centella asiatica AND Capsicum annum ON BODY WEIGHT AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK IN CHICKENS
Authors: OGANIJA K. Y. , BADMOS A. H. A. , ALLI O. O. , TOYE A. A.
Published: December 2024

A set of 80 birds (40 Marshall broiler chicks of mixed sexes and 40 Harco black layer lineage chicks also of mixed sexes) were used in a 2 x 2 x 2 Factorial (Genotype x Dietary Centella x Dietary Cayenne Pepper) layout of treatments within a Completely Randomized Design to evaluate the effects of Genotype, dietary Centella asiatica at 0 and 0.2 % levels, and Capsicum annum at 0 and 0.2 % levels, and their two- and three-way interactions modulation of cardiovascular disease risk through their effects on performance (body weight), fatness (Body Mass Index), lipid profile, inflammation / rheology and insulin secretion and action (Intraperitoneal Glucose Tolerance, IPGTT) in chickens. Body weight at age 1, 4 and 7 weeks was significantly (p<0.05) determined by Genotype and Genotype x Cayenne interaction. Fasting glycaemia in the IPGTT was significantly determined by Genotype, Cayenne, Centella x Cayenne and Genotype x Centella x Cayenne factor and factor interactions. These data point to significant benefits of Centella asiatica and Cayenne pepper nutriceuticals for reducing cardiovascular risk in chickens raised as broilers. Centella asiatica should be used as a nutraceutical dietary supplement at the level examined, to reduce cardiovascular risk over a 7 week production cycle through its effect in transiently reducing body weight and improving insulin secretion and action as measured by glucose tolerance. Cayenne pepper should be used as a nutraceutical dietary supplement at the level examined, to reduce cardiovascular risk over a 7 week production cycle through its effect in reducing inflammation. Given the nutrigenetic (Genotype x Nutraceutical interaction) effects observed here, care should be exercised in use of Centella asiatica and Cayenne pepper for the prescribed purposes, ensuring that the desired effects are present within the genotype background context in which they are used.
A MOLECULAR MARKER FOR FATTY ACID BINDING PROTEIN 4 (FABP4) GROWTH DETERMINANT FUNCTION IN NIGERIAN FULANI ECOTYPE CHICKENS
Authors: AKINBAMI B. O. , TOYE A. A.
Published: December 2024

A candidate gene for growth determination (Adipocyte Fatty Acid Binding Protein (A-FABP/FABP4) was examined for polymorphisms which can serve as markers of its differential functional status and role in growth performance between genetically slow growing indigenous chickens (Fulani Ecotype, and Yoruba Ecotype Nigeria Local Chicken, FE-NLC and Y-NLC) and fast growing exotic commercial chicken (Hubbard broiler) breeds. Primers for amplification of each exon of the predicted primary transcript of A-FABP of Red Jungle Fowl and the 50 base sequences immediately preceding and following each exon were designed, synthesised and used to amplify their target region in Hubbard and FE-NLC genomic DNA by use of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). PCR products were sequenced using ABI 3500XL Genetic Analyzer (Applied Biosystems). Exon sequences were subjected to multiple sequence alignment (MultAlin software). Phylogeny trees were constructed using Phylogeny.fr. Multiple sequence alignment (MSA) of Hubbard broiler and FE-NLC FABP4 exon 3 DNA sequences against FABP4 exon 3 of the Red Jungle Fowl primary transcript (ENSGALT00000025427.3 nt 1746 -1847) and flanking intron DNA revealed the existence of a purine to purine Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) in position 1765 (position 266 of the mature transcript predicted from NM_204290; position 20 of exon 3) of the primary transcript. The Red Jungle Fowl and Fulani Ecotype chicken carried an Adenine (A) base and Hubbard broiler carried Guanine (G) which led to an Asparagine to Serine change at an evolutionarily conserved region of codon 7 of exon 3 of the gene. Phylogenetic analysis of the predicted peptide sequence of exons using the order aves (within superorder Palaeognathae) as in-group and eutherian and non eutherian mammals as out-group revealed that exon 3 of Hubbard broiler was the most recently emerged in the examined group of bird. The location of the FABP4 polymorphism within the coding portion of the gene (exon) and specifically its location within an evolutionarily conserved codon, coupled with its non-synonymous nature suggest that the broiler variant may affect function of the encoded protein and the mutation might contribute to differential fat deposition and early growth rate in Hubbard Broilers relative to NLC chickens carrying the consensus/ancestral variant.
CHANGES IN ANTIOXIDANT CONTENTS, QUALITY ATTRIBUTES AND MYOFIBRILLAR PROTEINS OF CHEVON DURING POSTMORTEM AGEING
Authors: ADEYEMI K. D. , SAZILI A. Q.
Published: December 2024

This study examined the effect of postmortem ageing on the changes in antioxidant contents, physicochemical properties and myofibrillar proteins in Psoas major (PM) muscle in goats. The PM samples were excised from carcasses of ten Boer bucks on 0, 1, 4 and 8 d postmortem. Muscle glycogen and pH was greater on d 0 postmortem compared with those observed on other storage days. Ageing had no effect on antioxidant enzyme activities in PM muscle in goats. The relative density of myosin heavy chain and troponin T were stable until d 1 postmortem but declined (P< 0.05) afterwards. The drip loss, carbonyl, metmyoglobin and TBARS increased (P< 0.05) while the redness, shear force, free thiol, tocopherol, carotenoid, myoglobin and metmyoglobin reducing activity decreased (P<0.05) over postmortem ageing. Postmortem ageing improved tenderness but reduced the oxidative stability of PM muscle in goats.
AQUAPONICS: LEADWAY TO A SUSTAINABLE BIOINTEGRATED SAFETY PRODUCTION OF PLANT AND FISH IN AQUACULTURE
Authors: ADESINA O. A. , AGBEJA Y. E. , AKINWOLE A. O. , ADESINA B. T. , ADEOSUN F. I. , AKINWANDE A. A.
Published: December 2024

Biosafety of food consumed at household level is the key to sustainable health, and part of such food consumed come from aquaculture as source of aquatic food. Mest of the aquatic food produced, such as plants and fishes, could be of a serious public health concern as a result of poor water quality used to raise them. However, aquaponics, as a new concept is undergoing awareness in Nigeria as a sustainable tool to drive organic aquaculture as biosafety tool for protein production to every household. Aquaponics system has been considered as bio-integrated tool to foster the growth of vegetable and rearing of fish together thus maintaining good water quality. This will secure biosafety of aquatic products for future generation. Therefore, the paper reviewed the principles of operation, various growing techniques and different grow media used in aquaponics system, plant pests and diseases control in aquaponics system, advantages of aquaponics culture system, plants and fishes grown in aquaponics system. Aquaponics, therefore, encourages proper land usage and water conservation efficiency, and its possible role as eco-friendly technique is appreciable in plants and fishes production in aquaculture.
EFFECT OF GUTTING AND SALTING ON THE ORGANOLEPTIC QUALITIES AND PROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF SMOKED-GUTTED AND UNGUTTED, SALTED AND UNSALTED CATFISH (CLARIAS GARIEPINUS)
Authors: SOTOLU A. O. , ABDULLATEEF M. M.
Published: December 2024

The effect of gutting and salting on the organoleptic qualities and proximate composition of smoked- gutted and ungutted, salted and unsalted catfish was studied. Live catfish fish of 8kg were procured from Doma Dam for the experiment. The fish sample was divided into four equal parts comprising of 2Kg each giving 4 samples. The experiment was conducted in a 2 by 2 by 2 factorial design comprising of 2-gutted and ungutted, 2-salted and unsalted and 2- catfish respectively. The fish samples were prepared separately for smoking as thus; sample 1 (gutted unsalted), sample 2 (ungutted- salted), sample 3 (gutted-unsalted) and sample 4 (ungutted - unsalted) respectively. At the initial and final stage of the experiment, each fish sample was nutritionally assessed in the laboratory so as to determine change in nutritional composition using the method of AOAC (2000). Organoleptic parameters which included texture, taste, flavour, odour and appearance were assessed from the initial stage and later fortnightly to eight weeks of storage using a 10-point hedonic scale ranging from A (Excellent) = 10; B (Good) = 8; C (Fair) = 6; D (Unsatisfactory) = 4 and E (Unacceptable) = 2 was adopted for each quality parameter. Ten judges were used for the fortnight organoleptic assessment. Results of organoleptic assessment revealed that catfish gutted-unsalted had highest mean value of 8.920.15 in texture, catfish gutted salted had highest mean value of 8.480.22 and 8.280.25 in odour and flavour respectively. Catfish ungutted-salted had highest mean value of 9.401.64 in appearance while catfish ungutted-unsalted had highest mean value of 8.920.21 in taste. The proximate composition of smoked catfish ranged each from (moisture), 3.5 14.0% (Ash), 10.0- 15.0% (crude protein), 36.0 45.9% (ether extract) 5.0 15.0% (crude fibre) 1.9 3.50% and (Nitrogen Free Extract) 8.50-30.0% respectively.
LIPID OXIDATION AND MICROBIAL LOAD OF SUYA (TSIRE) AS AFFECTED BY MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAF POWDER
Authors: ADEPOJU G. A. , OLUSOLA O. O. , OSHIBANJO D. O.
Published: December 2024

Lipid oxidation is the primary process responsible for quality deterioration of meat and meat products during storage This study was carried out to evaluate lipid oxidation and microbial load of Suya (tsire) as affected by Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP). Semi membranous muscle from a mature bull excised from the thigh cut was used. It was sliced into thin sheets of 0.15-0.30mm thickness. Fresh green Moringa leaves were harvested, washed with distilled water and oven dried at 50°C for 48 hours to maintain its greenish colour and nutritive value. The leaves were ground and sieved with 0.2mm fine mesh to obtain the Moringa leaf powder. The study comprised of five treatments with ten replicates in a completely randomized design. Treatment one was the control (no MOLP) while treatments two, three, four and five were formulated with suya ingredient at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10% inclusion levels of MOLP respectively. Product was analyzed for lipid oxidation and microbial load at days 0, 3, and 6 kept under refrigeration. The results showed that there were significant differences (P< 0.05) in lipid oxidation among treatments. On day 0, treatment one had the highest value of 0.13mgMalonaldehyde/kg while the least value of 0.09mgMalonaldehyde/kg was recorded in treatment five. The same trend of significance (P<0.05) was observed on day 3 and day 6. On day 0, microbial load was lower in treatment five while treatment one had the highest microbial count, this trend of significance (P<0.05) also was observed product on day 3 and day 6. The result of this study shows that the use of MOLP up to 10% reduced the rate of lipid oxidation and microbial load of suya (Tsire).
ASSESSMENT OF THE OXIDATIVE AND BACTERIOLOGICAL STATUSES OF PORK FROM PIGS FED DIETS SUPPLEMENTED WITH GARLIC
Authors: DUROWAIYE P. F. , OGUNRIBIDO T. Z. , AKINTOMIDE A. A. , ADIGUN D. O. , ONIBI G. E.
Published: December 2024

There has been a lot of concern and restriction on the use of synthetic antibiotics as growth promoters in livestock feeds, leading to the need for alternatives that would be hazard free. This study evaluated the oxidative and bacteriological statuses of refrigerated fresh meat of pigs fed diets supplemented with ground garlic (Allium sativum). Four experimental diets, each containing the test additives were prepared to contain a basal diet (17.71% CP, 2653.21 kcal/kg DE) at 0, 1.0, 2.5 and 5.0 g/kg diet. The diets were offered to sixteen (16) pigs of mixed breeds (Large White, Landrace and Duroc) within the range of 24.5 and 27.5 kg live weight. The pigs were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments with each pig housed in separately partitioned pen and treated as a replicate in a completely randomized experimental design. The diets were offered to the pigs at 5% of pig's body weight and fed twice (morning and evening) daily while clean water was provided ad-libitum throughout the experimental period of nine weeks. Thereafter, the pigs were slaughtered and meat samples from the thighs were collected and refrigerated for up to five (5) days for determination of oxidative stability and bacteriological status. The results showed that dietary supplementation of garlic for pigs enhanced oxidative stability (P>0.05) and reduced bacterial load (P<0.001) of the refrigerated meat.
SHORT-TERM LAYING PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAILS (Coturnix cotunix japonica) FED DIFFERENT LEVELS OF BAKERY WASTE DIETS
Authors: EDACHE J. A. , TULEUN C. D. , YISA A. G. , AGUNIA B. , DUNKRAH L. A. , MUDUUDTAI R. U.
Published: December 2024

A six-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of feeding bakery waste meal (3.32% CP, 3221.88kcal/kg ME) on laying performance of Japanese quail birds. Four isonitrogenous (20%CP) diets were compounded. The control diet (A) had zero bakery waste. The other three diets (B, C and D), had 33.33, 66.67, and 100% of maize (respectively) replaced by bakery waste meal. One hundred and twenty (120) point-of-lay (POL) female quails were randomly assigned the experimental diets at thirty birds per diet in a completely randomized design and were offered feed and water ad libitum. Each diet was replicated thrice. Feed intake (26.11, 24.70, 22.97 23.01g/b/day), water intake (57.32, 52.67, 53.11, 51.32ml/b/day), weight gain (2.28, 1.67, 2.37, 1.52g/b/day), feed conversion ratio (5.54, 3.11, 4.36, 3.97) did not differ significantly (P>0.05) from the control. Hen-day egg production (61.28, 68.22, 68.43, 56.19%), hen-housed egg production (61.27, 65.87, 66.19, 56.19%) and egg weight (8.80, 9.47, 9.57, 9.60g) were similar across the treatments. Results show that bakery waste meal could completely replace maize in the diet of laying Japanese quails without having adverse effects on performance.
ASSISTED REPRODUCTION: DATURA STRAMONIUM EXTRACT AS APHRODISIAC IN THE GOAT BUCK
Authors: ADELOYE A. A. , SOLADOYE A. O. , YOUSUF M. B. , DARAMOLA J. O. , FATOBA T. O. , OKIN H. O. , OLAWOYE S. O.
Published: December 2024

This study explored the potential of Datura extract as aphrodisiac in the goat buck. Study involved 25 West African dwarf goat bucks comprising one control and four treatment groups. Datura seeds were leached in water. The extract was administered to the goat bucks in increasing dosages. Semen was harvested and quality determined using established procedures. Quality assessment included volume of ejaculate, mass activity, mass motility, ejaculate colour, sperm concentration and semen pH. Mass activity increased (P<0.50) at (mlkg-1BW) 0.04, 0.06 and 0.08; highest value being at 0.06 dosage. Mass motility and Sperm concentration were highest at (mlkg-1BW) 0.06. Semen pH was not affected by the extract. Extract evoked increased semen mass activity, semen mass motility and sperm concentration but reduced semen ejaculate volume in the goat buck. The dose of 0.06ml/kg-1BW is suggested for the goat buck. Without reducing the quality of the semen, the extract of Datura stramonium can be useful in enhancing the sexual/breeding capabilities of genetically proven goat bucks especially in conditions of old age and/or weak erectile function; and/or increased demand for the service of the buck in goat production enterprise.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DA ODONTOLOGIA NA PROTEÇÃO DAS CRIANÇAS CONTRA ABUSOS
Authors: Leite Maria Garcia , Cruz Nathália D’el Rei da , Santos Giovanna Domingos Perrella dos , Lima Luan Pereira de , Abreu Cristina de Carvalho Guedes , Alves Fátima Queiroz
Published: December 2024

A comunicação busca trazer as formas que um profissional de saúde da odontologia pode atuar na identificação de violência contra a criança e adolescente através da identificação de sinais físicos e comportamentais que possam mostrar o abuso. Além disso, a pesquisa destaca a obrigatoriedade da notificação desses casos que foi estabelecida pela legislação brasileira, em especial o Estatuto da Criança e do adolescente (ECA). A implementação de ferramentas digitais como uma facilitadora da comunicação e da denúncia de maus-tratos, mostra a intenção de reduzir a subnotificação e trazer mais proteção para as vítimas, mostrando em todo a importância da capacitação dos profissionais de saúde, da utilização de tecnologia e do fortalecimento da rede de apoio para o enfrentamento da violência infantil de forma mais eficiente.
‘Bapedi A Re Boeleng Setṧong’ - Consequences of Undermining Ancestral Beliefs with Regards to the Concept of ‘Mohlobolo’ from Bapedi People’s Cultural Perspective
Authors:   Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Creative Arts, University of Zululand – KwaDlangezwa Campus South Africa, Lebaka Morakeng Edward Kenneth
Published: December 2024

There appears to be an increasing interest in the integration of the concept ‘mohlobolo’ and traditional wedding ceremony (monyanya) in the Bapedi society, and this revives and strengthens Bapedi people’s traditional relationship with the ancestral realm. Strengthening interactions of ancestors of both families (bride and groom) through the significance role played by ‘mohlobolo’ has been a common practice for ages in the Bapedi society, but some families deliberately ignore this practice as the consequence of being mesmerized by external theological beliefs and modern technologies. There has been unsatisfactory integration of the concept ‘mohlobolo’ and traditional wedding ceremony even though Bapedi cultural heritage and identity advocates its use, and significant meaning stating that it strengthens the marriage relationship and preserves Bapedi people’s cultural wedding practice. Amongst Bapedi people, teamwork is preferable to get everyone involved and to facilitate ancestor veneration. This paper has its goal a drive to recognize ancestral beliefs as the foundation of a happy family and the creation of spiritual and religious values within Bapedi people’s cultural context. To address the objectives of this study, the following primary research questions were considered: 1) What are the consequences of undermining the pivotal role played by the concept ‘mohlobolo’ in traditional Bapedi wedding ceremonies? and 2) why are innocent children and grandchildren suffering because of the ignorance and negligence by their parents and grandparents? The primary sources for data collection include observations and oral interviews that were conducted through face-to-face interaction. The interviews were aimed at eliciting first-hand information on the knowledge of the subject matter. The secondary sources included among others, materials such as journal articles, books and theses, and of course personal experience. The results have shown that in the Bapedi society, some families are disintegrated as the consequence of undermining the pivotal role played by the concept ‘mohlobolo’. There appears to be unpleasant marriage relationship in some families; female partners cannot procreate, etc. It was concluded that ‘mohlobolo’ serves as the eternal bond between the families and the ancestors of the two families that are coming together through the bride and bridegroom.
Report on a Case Study Process Evaluation of a HeartMath Intervention and Faith Following a Traumatic Experience
Authors:   Psychology Department, University of Zululand. P Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa 3886, Richards Bay, South Africa, Edwards David John , Dreyer Yolanda ,   Department of Practical Theology and Mission
Studies, Faculty of Theology and Religion, University
of Pretoria, Tshwane, South Africa, Steyn Ben J.M. ,   Department of Psychology,
Faculty of Humanities, University
of Pretoria, South Africa
Published: December 2024

An initial study [1] was undertaken on a HeartMath intervention, focusing on coherence, resilience and faith following a traumatic experience. Quantitively, there were significant post-intervention positive improvements in physiological coherence, and improvements in resilience and faith, and, qualitatively, positive integrated thematic changes in experiences of sense of coherence, resilience and faith. Correlations revealed various Sense of Coherence Scale items correlated with Brief Resilience Scale and Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire items, and there were inter-related and overlapping experiences of sense of coherence, resilience and faith integrated themes and sub-themes. The first study’s recommendations included that a case study process evaluation of a HeartMath intervention and faith following a traumatic experience be undertaken. The aim was to identify causal, correlation and relationship mechanisms of change. For this case study, the sample consisted of five participants purposefully selected from the original cohort. Information from a qualitative questionnaire on before, during and after intervention experience of sense of coherence, resilience, faith and HeartMath, as well as the HeartMath intervention, were collected. Emerging causal, correlation and relationship mechanisms of change in the form of integrated themes and sub-themes are discussed.
Mind the Gap: Heritage, Evolution, and the Human Quest for Certainty in an Uncertain World
Authors:   Ovidius University of Constanta, Department of Theology, Constanta, Romania, Ciocan Tudor-Cosmin
Published: December 2024

This article investigates the informational completion mechanism of the human mind, through which the brain fills cognitive gaps to create a coherent narrative continuum and eliminate uncertainties. The study aims to analyze whether this process relies solely on immediate experiences and direct learning or if it also includes deeper influences passed down from a transgenerational past and even from the evolutionary stages of species. The central question of the research is: Do we use only recently accumulated information to fill knowledge gaps, or does our brain access a broader fund, imbued with subconscious legacies and evolutionary predispositions? This exploration seeks to reveal how cognitive biases, such as the anchoring effect and confirmation bias, contribute to building an adaptive informational framework intended to support psychological stability and perceptual coherence. The paper also examines how these automatic completions can give rise to beliefs and myths that fill knowledge gaps, reinforcing an overarching narrative. Through informational completion, the brain not only stabilizes an individual’s subjective reality but also shapes common worldviews that support social cohesion and collective identity. The findings suggest that the cognitive completion mechanism, far from being merely adaptive, represents a quest for certainty and stability in the face of the unknown. In a rapidly changing world, this capability becomes essential for human adaptability. However, the question remains: To what extent does this informational fund accessed by the mind extend, and what role do the collective subconscious and evolutionary influences play in the cognitive completion process?
Creating Synergy in English Language Teaching: Merging Classical Techniques with Contemporary Practices
Authors:   Roumanian Naval Academy “Mircea cel Batran”
Constanța, Romania, Ciocan Maria
Published: December 2024

This article explores the integration of classical and contemporary approaches in English Language Teaching (ELT) to address the diverse needs of learners in a globalized world. Classical methods, such as the Grammar-Translation Method, the Direct Method, and the Audio-Lingual Method, emphasize linguistic accuracy and foundational skills, while contemporary practices, including Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT), and Blended Learning, prioritize fluency, engagement, and real-world communication. By synergizing these methodologies, educators can create a balanced framework that fosters grammatical precision, critical thinking, and communicative competence. The article also examines challenges in implementing blended approaches, including the need for effective sequencing, balancing accuracy with fluency, and adapting to learner diversity. Recommendations are provided for overcoming these challenges, emphasizing the importance of professional development, institutional support, and continuous assessment. This holistic perspective offers practical and theoretical insights into enhancing ELT practices for learners’ linguistic and communicative growth.
Novelty in the Scientific Approach Permits a New Way of Considering Issues Surrounding Abortion and the Social Construct of Reality Theory
Authors:   CICA Internation, CICAInternational Foundation, International University of Professional Studies, Spain, Lindhard Tina
Published: December 2024

At present, the issue of abortion is creating a polarity in many societies; the USA is a prime example, where the 'progressive' left is in a continual battle against the conservative right-wing party. The opinion presented here is that in their articles, scientists are not supposed to become involved in doing 'propaganda' for one position or the other but should look at issues like the Social Construct of Reality Theory and abortion, from a new perspective based on the cutting edge of scientific thinking and research that is both interdisciplinary and, where necessary, includes ancient spiritual wisdom; it is wholistic. A multidisciplinary approach that draws from multiple fields allows for a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues. Thus, this scientific stance presented here can be considered 'evolutionary within the tapestry of human evolution'. Scientists must also remember that science, in essence, is creative and was once considered philosophy and was taught in tandem with the creative arts, including music; from a systemic point of view, all these disciplines are part of a whole, where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. The holistic approach does not provide nice, tidy answers regarding right and wrong. However, going beyond binary thinking opens dilemmas, creating new unthought-of ways to contemplate issues, which enables policymakers and the public to make more informed decisions backed by scientific evidence and research.
Characterization of reactive nitrogen in the global upper troposphere using recent and historical commercial and research aircraft campaigns and GEOS-Chem
Authors: Wei Nana , Marais Eloise A. , Lu Gongda , Ryan Robert G. , Sauvage Bastien
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Reactive nitrogen (NOy) in the upper troposphere (UT; ~8–12 km) influences global climate, air quality, and tropospheric oxidants, but this is informed by limited knowledge of the relative contribution of individual NOy components in this undersampled layer. Here we use sporadic NASA DC-8 aircraft campaign observations, after screening for plumes and stratospheric influence, to characterise UT NOy composition and evaluate current knowledge of UT NOy as simulated with the GEOS-Chem model. Use of DC-8 data follows confirmation that these sporadic data reproduce NOy seasonality from routine commercial aircraft observations (2003–2019), supporting use of DC-8 data to characterize UT NOy. We find that peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) dominates UT NOy (30–64 % of NOy), followed by nitrogen oxides (NOx ≡ NO + NO2) (6–18 %), peroxynitric acid (HNO4) (6–13 %), and nitric acid (HNO3) (7–11 %). Methyl peroxy nitrate (MPN) makes an outsized contribution to NOy (24 %) over the Southeast US relative to the other regions sampled (2–7 %). GEOS-Chem, sampled along DC-8 flights, exhibits much weaker seasonality than DC-8, underestimating summer and spring NOy and overestimating winter and autumn NOy. The model consistently overestimates peroxypropionyl nitrate (PPN) by up to 16 pptv and underestimates NO2 by 6–36 pptv, as the model is missing PPN photolysis. An ~80 pptv (20-fold) underestimate in modelled MPN over the Southeast US results from uncertainties in processes that sustain MPN production as air ages. Our findings highlight that greater understanding of UT NOy is critically needed to determine its role in the nitrogen cycle, air pollution, climate, and abundance of oxidants.
The clay mineralogy rather that the clay content determines radiocaesium adsorption in soils
Authors: Vanheukelom Margot , Haenen Nina , Almahayni Talal , Sweeck Lieve , Weyns Nancy , Van Hees May , Smolders Erik
Published: December 2024

Abstract. The transfer of radiocaesium (137Cs) from soil to crops is the main long-term radiation risk after nuclear accidents. The prevailing concept is that 137Cs sorption in soil, and hence its bioavailability, is controlled by soil clay content (0–2 µm). This study tested this assumption using 24 soils collected worldwide. The Radiocaesium Interception Potential (RIP), i.e., 137Cs adsorption, was measured for the bulk soils and for their clay and silt fractions. The RIP varied by factor 438 among soils and was unrelated to its clay content (p >0.05). The RIP in the clay fractions was lowest for young volcanic soils with allophane and mica, and for highly weathered tropical soils with kaolinite. In contrast, about two order of magnitude higher RIP values were found in intermediate-weathered temperate soils dominated by illite. Soil RIP was, hence, related to soil illite content (R2 = 0.50; p <0.001). Significant fraction of soil RIP originated from clay minerals embedded in the silt fraction. The sum of RIP in clay and silt fractions overestimated the soil RIP by, on average, factor of 2, indicating that isolation of clay opens selective 137Cs sorption sites inaccessible in intact soils. Soil mineralogy, not just clay content, governs soil RIP. The validity of existing 137Cs bioavailability models require recalibration for its use on a global scale.
Surface grain-size mapping of braided channels from SfM photogrammetry
Authors: Ribet Loïs , Liébault Frédéric , Borgniet Laurent , Deschâtres Michaël , Melun Gabriel
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Braided channels are known as fluvial systems with a high heterogeneity of physical conditions, resulting from particularly active interacting processes of coarse sediment sorting and transport. This in turn generates a complex mosaic of terrestrial and aquatic habitats, supporting an exceptional biodiversity. However, documenting this physical heterogeneity is challenging, and notably the textural variability of these rivers, which is particularly strong. Distributed and continuous grain-size maps of braided channels are notably of great interest in this regard. In this study, high-resolution imagery obtained from UAV equipped for direct georeferencing were used to produce 3D point clouds (Structure from Motion photogrammetry), from which surface grain-size has been inferred. A set of 12 braided river reaches located in SE of France were used to calibrate a roughness-based grain-size proxy, and this proxy was used for the production of distributed grain-size maps. The calibration curve can be used to determine the surface median grain-size with an independent error of 5 mm (14 % of relative error). Resampling procedure shows a good transferability of the calibration, with a residual prediction error ranging from 5 to 17.5 %. Reach-averaged median grain-sizes extracted from roughness-based grain-size maps were in very good agreement with values collected in the field from intensive grain-size samplings (differences of less than 5 %). Some examples of morpho-sedimentary signatures derived from these maps are provided. They notably show a systematic altimetric gradient of the maximum grain-size of bars, that is interpreted as an hydrological imprint, that should be better integrated into conceptual models of grain-size patchiness developed for these rivers.
Carbon dioxide plume dispersion simulated at hectometer scale using DALES: model formulation and observational evaluation
Authors: Karagodin-Doyennel Arseniy , Jansson Fredrik , van Stratum Bart , Denier van der Gon Hugo , Vilà-Guerau de Arellano Jordi , Houweling Sander
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Developing effective global strategies for climate mitigation requires an independent assessment of green-house gas emission inventory at the urban scale. In the framework of the Dutch Ruisdael Observatory infrastructure project, we have enhanced the Dutch Large-Eddy Simulation (DALES) model to simulate carbon dioxide (CO2) plume emission and three-dimensional dispersion within the turbulent boundary layer. The unique ability to explicitly resolve turbulent structures at the hectometer resolution (100 m) makes DALES particularly suitable for detailed realistic simulations of both singular high-emitting point sources and urban emissions, aligning with the goals of Ruisdael Observatory. The model setup involves a high-resolution simulation (100 m × 100 m) covering the main urban area of the Netherlands (51.5°–52.5° N, 3.75°–6.45° E). The model integrates meteorological forcing from the HARMONIE-AROME weather forecasting model, background CO2 levels from the CAMS reanalysis, as well as point source emissions and downscaled area emissions derived from 1 km × 1 km emission inventory from the national registry. The latter are prepared using a sector-specific downscaling workflow, covering major emission categories. Biogenic CO2 exchanges from grasslands and forests are interactively included in the hectometer calculations within the heterogeneous land-surface model of DALES. Our evaluation strategy is twofold, comparing DALES simulations with: (i) the state-of-the art LOTOS-EUROS model simulations and (ii) in-situ Cabauw tower measurements and Ruisdael surface observations of the urban background in the Rotterdam area at Westmaas and Slufter. Our comprehensive statistical analysis confirmed the effectiveness of DALES in modeling the urban-scale CO2 emission distribution and plume dispersion under turbulent conditions, but also revealed potential limitations and areas for further improvement. Thus, our new model framework provides valuable insights into emission transport and dispersion of CO2, in support of emission uncertainty reduction using atmospheric measurements and the development of effective climate policies.
Knickpoints and fixed points: the evolution of fluvial morphology under the combined effect of fault uplift and dam obstruction on a soft bedrock river
Authors: Chen Hung-En , Chiu Yen-Yu , Cheng Chih-Yuan , Chen Su-Chin
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Rapid changes in river geomorphology can occur after being disturbed by external factors like earthquakes or large dam obstructions. Studies documenting the evolution of river morphology under such conditions have advanced our understanding of fluvial geomorphology. The Dajia River in Taiwan presents a unique example of the combined effects of a coseismic fault (the 1999 Mw 7.6 Chi-Chi earthquake) and a dam. As a result of the steep terrain and abundant precipitation, rivers in Taiwan have exhibited characteristic post-disturbance evolution over 20 years. This study also considers two other comparative rivers with similar congenital conditions: the Daan River was affected by a thrust fault Chi-Chi earthquake as well, and the Zhuoshui River was influenced by dam construction finished in 2001. The survey data and knickpoint migration model were used to analyze the evolution of the three rivers and propose hypothesis models. Results showed that the mobile knickpoint migrated upstream under the influence of flow, while the dam acted as a fixed point, leading to an increased elevation gap and downstream channel incision. Thereby, the narrowing and incision of the Dajia River began at both ends and progressively spread to the whole reach under the combined effects.
Trends in hydroclimate extremes: How changes in winter conditions affect seasonal baseflow and storage
Authors: Tiwari Tejshree , Laudon Hjalmar
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Northern ecosystems experience rapid climatic change at a rate where average temperatures are increasing above global averages. Yet, for the boreal snow-dominated catchments that rely on the winter snow accumulation and spring melt for sustained stream flow across preceding seasons, much remains unknown about how catchment water storage and baseflow are affected. Here we used 40 years of data from the boreal Krycklan catchment, placed into a 130 climate record from a nearby location, to test how 27 extreme climate change indices have been affected, and how these, in turn, can explain seasonal low flows during the winter and summer. Our results show that while annual temperatures have increased by 2.2 °C over the last four decades, even more distinct seasonal impacts were detected as exemplified by eight extreme indices demonstrating that winters have become warmer with less precipitation. The analysis also showed that summers have become warmer shown by four significant increases in climate indices. Using the significant winter indices to predict winter baseflow and winter/summer indices to predict summer baseflow we found that the accumulated degree day below zero (AFDD<0) was the best predictor of winter minimum flow and AFDD<0 and Summer maximum temperature (MaxTmax) were the best predictor of summer minimum flow. Additional isotopic analysis of stream flow partitioning found an increasing contribution of winter rain/snow in stream runoff during winter over the last 22 years, as well as a decreased contribution to the preceding summer stream flow. These findings imply that warmer winters have affected water storage and runoff patterns in the boreal catchment which can have important feedback on terrestrial ecosystems, particularly on water availability in later parts of the growing season.
THE IMPACT OF VITAMIN D AND INTERLEUKIN-6 AS RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DEPRESSION ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Sharba Intisar Razzaq , Wajid Shifaa Kadim
Published: December 2024

Background: Adolescents face an increased risk of depression due to hormonal fluctuations and the impact on physiological and immunological biomarkers, which are associated with a heightened risk of symptoms of depression during puberty. Aims: Investigate the roles of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and vitamin D (Vt.D) as influential factors in increasing the risk of depression among adolescents. Methods: Cross-sectional study of 130 adolescents aged 12 to 18, between November 2023 and February 2024. This study examined serum IL-6 and Vt.D levels. Additionally, the calculation relies on the Beck Depression Inventory to measure the severity of depression. Results: Adolescents have a significant increase in depression symptoms, with 59.2% showing signs of depression. Depressed adolescents show a significant increase (p<0.001) in IL-6 and decreased Vt. D levels compared to non-depressed individuals. Depression scores were significantly correlated positively with IL-6 levels and negatively with Vt. D levels and Linear regression analysis exhibit a significant positive predictor of IL-6 (B: 4.430; 95% CI: 3.023 to 5.836). Vt. D is a significantly negative predictor (B: -0.145; 95% CI: -0.220 to -0.071) associated with depression scores. Logistics regression showed the risk of depression is higher in females (59.7%; OR: 2.33; p=0.002) compared to males (40.3%; OR: 0.939; p=0.803), overweight and obese adolescents (OR: 3.750, p=0.019; and OR: 2.333, p=0.022), than normal weight and underweight peers. They highly predicted depression in adolescents with deficiency Vt. D (OR: 24.4, p<0.001), and depressed severity increased with no take Vt. D supplement (OR: 1.769, p=004), more than those who had taken Vt. D Supplement (OR: 0.571, p=0.207). Discussion: Vitamin D affects serotonin synthesis by a unique biological mechanism. Serotonin is always involved in the pathophysiology of depression. Vitamin D may have a neuroprotective effect on the inflammatory process in the body. Support immunomodulation leads to an increase in inflammatory cytokines and vitamins, which suppresses the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 by monocytes. Conclusions: The likelihood of severe adolescent depression was found to be associated with elevated IL-6 levels and a deficiency in Vitamin D, serving as available predictors.
FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY: A JOURNEY OF INNOVATION IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - INTERVIEW WITH PROFESSOR FERNANDO LUIZ PELLEGRINI PESSOA
Authors: Pessoa Fernando Luiz Pellegrini , De Boni Luis Alcides Brandini
Published: December 2024

Background: The interview with Professor Dr. Fernando Luiz Pellegrini Pessoa covers his extensive career and contributions to chemical engineering, focusing on innovations and sustainability. Objectives: To explore Professor Pellegrini's experiences in various areas of chemical engineering, including teaching methods, research in supercritical extraction, biodiesel production, and process intensification. Methods: Semi-structured interview addressing topics such as academic and industrial career, teaching methods, ongoing research, and future perspectives for the chemical industry. Results: Professor Pellegrini highlighted the importance of practical application of theoretical knowledge, the development of the Water Source Diagram method, advances in supercritical extraction and biodiesel production, and the need for process intensification in the industry. Discussion: The interview revealed the importance of integration between academia and industry, the need for teaching methods that facilitate learning, and the challenges in implementing sustainable and efficient technologies in the chemical industry. Conclusion: Professor Pellegrini emphasizes the importance of process intensification and sustainability in the evolution of the chemical industry. He highlights the need for greater collaboration between academia and industry to address future challenges and implement innovative solutions.