bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional manipulation in goats: Supplementation of high protein concentrate, effect on performance and resilience of internal parasites
Authors: Yusuf A. O. , Ajayi T. O. , Ajayi O. S. , Yusuf O. A.
Published: February 2021

Eighteen West African Dwarf Goats (WAD) were used in 77-days experimental period to test the efficacy of high protein levels on growth performance and parasite loads of WAD goat. The goats were grouped into three treatments of six animals each per group using their FAMACHA scores (C3-E5) in a completely randomized design. Concentrate diets of varying levels of protein were fed at 7.5 % (low protein, LP), 10.5 % (medium protein, MP) and 14.5% (high protein, HP) inclusion level, respectively while Megathyrsus maximums and water was providedad libitum. Data were collect on FAMACHA score, weight changes. oocyst count and egg per gram of the faeces. The result of this study indicated that the supplemented protein decreased the FAMACHA score from the onset of the experiment to the end of the experiment. Animals fed high protein diet displayed highest growth performance, followed by animals fed with medium protein diet while animals fed with low protein diets had a slight increase in their growth performance.Goats fed high proteinous diet (HP) had a reduced oocyst and egg per gram of the faeces compared to their counterparts fed medium and low protein diets. It can be concluded that feeding WAD goats up to 14% crude protein inclusion is quite adequate to cover their protein requirements and increase their growth performance.Feeding high proteinous diets to goats is an economic and cost effective way of controlling gastrointestinal parasite.
Diversity and physical properties of rumen microbial ecosystem of West African dwarf rams fed ammonium sulphate-fortified diets
Authors: Akinlade A. T , Ososanya T. O.
Published: February 2021

Ammonium sulphate is a feed additive used in ruminant feeds mainly for stabilization of the intestinal flora, enhance the development of the adult rumen microflora, improve digestion and nitrogen flow towards lower digestive tract and improve meat and milk production. In the study the diversity of rumen microbial ecosystem of WAD rams fed ammonium sulphatefortified diets at 0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5g/kg to the concentrate diet as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively was assessed. Sixteen WAD rams with average body weight of 12.20+0.12 kg were used and fed for 109 days, each treatment had four replicates. In a completely randomized design and differences among treatment means were examined using least significant difference, each ram was fed at 5% of their body weight at 60:40 levels of experimental diet and wilted guinea grass as basal diet. Variables measured were: S. typhimurium, E. coli, bacteria, fungi and protozoa. The results indicated that establishment of the microbial population of diets consisting of 7.5g/kg (NH ) SO were significantly higher 4 2 4 in bacteria and fungi than the control diet (P<0.05). It was concluded that fortification a 7.5g/kg (NH ) SO give a better understanding of the role of rumen microbes and the 4 2 4 establishment of the microbial population, which help to maintain the host's health and improve animal performance.
Yield and nutrient composition of fertilized maize as fodder for ruminant production
Authors: Fasae O. A. , Abiola M. M. , Fabunmi T. O. , Yusuf A. O. , Aderinboye R. Y. , Fakoya E. O.
Published: February 2021

Maize plant generates a lot of underutilized leaves which if properly harnessed can be cheaper source of nutrients for cattle, sheep and goat production, thereby improving the challenges of dry season feed shortages. In the study, the fodder yield and the nutritive value of fertilized maize were investigated as feedstuff for ruminant production. Six treatments comprised of maize fertilized with cattle, sheep, swine and poultry manures, NPK and the control were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replicates in a fiel study in the early and late cropping seasons. Parameters on chemical composition, leaf and grain yield as well as plant height were determined. Results showed that crude protein content ranged from 10.08 ± 0.70 to 12.48 ± 0.82% with manure fertilized maize leaves having the highest (P < 0.05) values in both seasons. The neutral detergent and acid detergent fibre contents ranked the same statistically (P > 0.05) across fertilized maize with values ranging from 53.70 ± 0.81 to 59.90 ± 0.83% and 33.70 ± 0.60 to 37.32 ± 0.63%,respectively. Acid detergent lignin varied (P < 0.05) and ranged from 5.01 ± 0.25 to 8.82 ± 0.31% across treatments. Leaf yield and yield components were also higher in manure fertilized maize compared to maize fertilized with NPK and the control. Leaf yield ranged from 883.33 to 1113.24 kg DM/ha with maize fertilized with sheep manure having the highest values in the early season. It can be concluded that animal manures have excellent potential to increase fodder yield and nutrient composition of maize plants.
Chemical composition of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa l.) seeds fermented at varying durations
Authors: Angbulu A. O. , Duru S. , Afolayan S. B. , Munza B. M.
Published: February 2021

A study was carried out to determine the chemical composition of roselle seeds fermented at varying durations. One kg cleaned Roselle seeds were soaked in 3L of water for 8 hours. The soaked seeds were drained and fermented for 0, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours as treatments. Samples of fermented roselle seeds at different duration of fermentations were analyzed for chemical composition including anti-nutritional factors. The results showed that there was significant (P<0.05) effect of fermentation duration on chemical composition and antinutritional factors of roselle seeds. Dry matter and crude protein content increased as fermentation duration increased from 0 to 96 hours. The highest dry matter (91.87%) and crude protein (35.05%) were obtained at 96 hours while crude fibre and ether extract decreased with increased fermentation duration. Crude fibre (6.55%) and ether extract (26.79%) were highest at 0 hours. Ash and nitrogen free extract content ranged from 5.41 – 5.78 % and 30.62 – 39.19 %, respectively. Anti-nutritional factor contents declined withincreased fermentation duration. The lowest values for saponin (2.02%), tannin (0.15%), phytic acid (5.44%) and trypsin inhibitor (8.93%) were obtained at 96 hours fermentation. It can be concluded that roselle seeds fermented for 96 hours enhanced nutrient availability and significantly reduced tannin, phytate, saponin and trypsin inhibitor anti-nutritional factors.
Biophysical, aestivation, Archachatina marginata, Archachatina papyracae, Achatina fulica
Authors: Asagba E. C. , Omoyakhi J. M. , Okhale O. E.
Published: February 2021

The experiment was conducted to determine the changes in the biophysical parameters during starvation in three common species of land snails identified in Edo and Delta States. A total of 252 matured healthy snails comprising three species (Archachatina marginata,  Archachatina papyracae and Achatina fulica) were used. A completely randomized design was used in a 3 x 4 factorial arrangement. At the end of two weeks acclimation period, feed and water were withdrawn for 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Result shows that A. marginata has significantly (P<0.05) highest initial liveweight. A. papyracae had the least weight but was not significantly (P>0.05) different from the weight of A. fulica used in the study. During the 12 weeks of starvation, A. papyracae recorded the highest mortality rate of 24.58 %. A. marginata and A. fulica respectively recorded mortality rate of 9.05 and 6.52 %. A marginata reflected two stages of major weight decline; 2nd and 9th weeks. The A. papyracae and A. fulica however declined conspicuously only at the 1st week. The weight of the muscular foot which constitutes the edible portion of the three species decreased between 0, 4 and 8 weeks. There were no significant differences in weight in each of the three species. Twelveweeks aestivation eventually resulted in further and significant weight loss. The aestivation lengths did not affect the shell weight in the three species, except A. marginata with significant decline at the 12th week. This study indicates that A. marginata and A. fulica are bigger in size and more tolerant to extended starvation than A. papyracae.
Nigerian Fulani ecotype chickens - II – Estimation of growth curve parameters
Authors: Sanusi A. R. , Oseni S. O.
Published: February 2021

In the study, growth curves of Nigerian Fulani ecotype chickens (NFEC) were modelled  under two production systems with four non-linear growth functions with a view to  establishing growth descriptors for NFEC. Two hundred, day-old chicks of NFEC were  obtained from an established population of NFEC. The chickens were separated randomly to  intensive and pastured poultry production systems at 12 weeks of age. Data on body weight  were taken weekly over a period of 20 weeks. Four non-linear growth functions including  Gompertz, Logistic, Bertalanffy and Richard's models were fitted using the NLIN procedure  of SAS while the best fit model was selected using the goodness-of-fit tests. For all the models, parameter (A), the asymptotic weight, ranged between 1800g and 2417g for male  and 1208g and 1550g for female chickens respectively. Parameter (B), the scaling parameter  ranged from 0.77 and 19.79. Parameter K, which is the maturity index, ranged between 0.16 and 3.97 for both sexes. The R values ranged between 0.9689 and 0.9987 for all the models  fitted. Gompertz and Bertalanffy models emerged as the best fit functions. Age and body  weight at inflection of NFEC were also predicted by the study. Growth curve parameters of  NFEC in the pastured poultry system were not significantly different from those in the  intensive system. The growth curve parameters estimated indicates that NFEC growth  performance can be improved through effective breeding strategies and improved  management practices.
Evaluation of genetic similarity and distance among seven Clariid fish populations in Kano Rivers, Nigeria
Authors: Suleiman I. O , Kabir M. , Bolorunduro P. I. , Akinsola O. M.
Published: February 2021

A population can only acquire new genes either through the immigration of individuals from  surrounding populations. One of the greatest advantages of microsatellite marker is that  DNA sequence information is needed to perform the assay. Thus, a study was carried out to  evaluate genetic similarity and distance in strains of Clariid species (Clarias gariepinus and  Heterobranchus longifilis). In achieving this, 25 blood samples were gotten from Clarias  gariepinus and 10 from Heterobranchus longifilis for DNA extraction. DNA was extracted,  amplified and scored using seven microsatellite markers. The markers were Cga01, Cga02,  Cga03, Cga05, Cga06, Cga09 and Cga10. The gel images were then subjected to molecular  analysis using Genalex software to determine their base pairs and evaluate their genetic  variability. The populations examined were Clarias gariepinus of River Dudusingaya  (CgD), Ghari (CgG), Thomas (CgT), Karaye (CgK), Bagwai (CgB); and Heterobranchus  longifilis of River Bagwai (HlB) and Ghari (HlG). Among the populations sampled, the  genetic similarity ranged from 0.018 for CgD and CgT populations to 0.079 for CgT and HlG  populations. The genetic distance observed in the populations ranged from 0.112 for CgG  and CgB populations to 0.998 for CgT and CgK populations. The Clariid species that were  closer indicated that the river locations shared tributaries and the Clariid species exchanged  genetic materials over a long period of time. On the other hand, those that were farther apart  indicated that they shared little or no tributaries. It can be concluded that the studied  populations were not genetically pure but heterogeneous with varying degrees of genetic  similarity and distance therefore, there were no. exhibition of genetic uniqueness and the  populations were not isolated.
Sex effects and phenotypic correlation among growth traits in America standard Chinchilla rabbits in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Adeoye A. A.
Published: February 2021

Data on body weight and linear body measurements collected from 101 America StandardChinchilla rabbits comprised of 62 females and 39 males at eight weeks were used todetermine the effect of sex and phenotypic correlations among the growth traits. Theestimates were statistically (p<0.05) higher in the female compared with male in virtually all the traits considered except in the fore arm length. The values for body weight, body length, ear length, tail length, fore arm length, heart girth and abdominal circumference for females were 1.19 kg, 31.97 cm, 10.67 cm, 9.89 cm, 15.61 cm, 21.61 cm and 23.75 cm, respectively while the corresponding values for males were 0.88 kg, 28.00 cm, 10.44 cm, 8.95 cm, 14.74 cm, 19.62 cm and 21.67 cm. The correlation between body weight and the linear body measurements was positively significant (p<0.05 and p<0.001) and ranged between 0.301 and 0.951 in males while in females positive and significant correlations were found between body weight and body length (0.831), tail length (0.184), heart girth (0.788) and abdominal circumference (0.719). The correlations among the linear body measurements in the males ranged between 0.108 and 0.951 while in females it ranged between -0.235 and 0.681. The positive relationships between body weight and linear body measurements can be used as basis for body weight selection in both male and female rabbits
Evaluation of local duck production systems in Imo and Abia States of Nigeria
Authors: Kadurumba O. E. , Egenuka F. C. , Ikpamezie L. C. , Kadurumba C. , Onunkwo D. N.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to evaluate local duck production systems in Imo and Abia States of Nigeria. Seventy-two (72) local duck farmers from both States were purposefully selected using snowball sampling techniques and were interviewed using structured questionnaires.Data on farmers' socio-economic characteristics and production practices were collectedand analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages and charts. Theresults showed that there were more male duck farmers (88.89%), while the average age of duck farmers was 51.35years. Most (97.22%) of the duck farmers were literate, 58.33% ofhouseholds had between 4 - 7 members, 73.61% of duck farmers were Christians and a higher number (46.43%) raised pigs alongside of ducks. Most farmers (98.61%) kept only Muscovy ducks. The average flock size is about 6-9 ducks per household. Ducks were mainly kept for rituals and traditional medicine (56.78%). About 48.61% of farmers used personal money to finance duck farming, while 47.22% of farmers inherited their foundations stock. The age at sexual maturity for ducks was 7 to 9 months; clutch length was 11 to 15 days, while clutch size ranged from 16 to 20 eggs. Again, 94.44% of farmers practiced extensive system of duck keeping while 84.72% did not provide supplementary feeds to their ducks. Accidents are the leading cause of mortality in ducks, while the myths that surround ducks are the main obstacle to duck meat consumption. The results showed that duck farming is not popular in the study area and therefore, ducks are seen and kept as sacrificial birds. Thus, the potential of ducks for the production of meat and eggs is not fully exploited. These myths that have hindered the production of ducks could be dispelled through farmer trainings and enlightenment.
Impact of Ogun River pollution on antioxidants and proximate composition of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
Authors: Onunkwor B. O. , Akinpelu T. O. , Oladipupo O. J. , Ugbaja R. N. , Olaoye O. J. , Abdulraheem J. , Babayemi D. O.
Published: February 2021

Most rivers in Nigeria are polluted without conscious efforts to abate ensuant consequences. Thus, Clarias gariepinus, an aquatic commercial food from Ogun River, Nigeria, was studied to investigate the impact of pollution on antioxidants and proximate composition. During the rainy season, 50 C. gariepinus (average weight 426.53 ± 24.40g and length 37.73 ± 0.95cm) were site sampled, 10 from each of Ago-Odo, Ago-Ika, Oke-Sokori, and Quarry along Ogun River course. Ajegunle-Adao cultured pond, served as control. The parameters assayed for included: some heavy metals and physico-chemical properties of sampled water, antioxidants and proximate composition of the fish samples. Physicochemical parameters of river studied showed that temperature of all sites ranged from 26 to 29°C, pH: 6.9 to 7.8, dissolved oxygen: 9.5 to 21.6, biochemical oxygen demand: 3.60 to 14.10, and chemical oxygen demand: 60 to 650. Lead (Pb) concentration ranged from 4.0 to 17.0 μg/L and cadmium (Cd): 0.0 to 6.0 μg/L. Blood Pb, Cd, activities of: superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, plasma xanthine oxidase, and lipid peroxidation level of fish samples from Ago-Ika were most significantly (p < 0.05) high, with significant (p < 0.05) lowest reduced glutathione concentration amongst the samples from polluted sites when compared to control fish. Proximate analysis showed that the fish samples from Ogun River had significantly (p < 0.05) lower protein, fat contents, and higher nitrogen-free extract while Ago-Ika, Oke-Sokori and Quarry sites had significantly (p < 0.05) lower moisture, ash and fibre contents when compared with control. It can be concluded that the impact of pollution induced oxidative stress and significantly diminished the nutritional value of C. gariepinus from Ogun River.
Influence of feeding regimen on growth parameters of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus, Burchell 1822)
Authors: Abanikannda O. T. F. , Jimoh A. A. , Bakare K. O. , Shitta S. A. , Shopeyin Z. F.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was conducted using 270 African catfish fingerlings to evaluate the effects ofdifferent feeding regimen on growth performance of the fish. The fish were hatched andreared to 12 weeks under similar condition before the commencement of the experiment thatlasted for 40 days. Feeding regimens included equally shared feed based on recommended of5% body weight, and equally spaced feed allocation at 6, 8 and 12 hourly intervals. Each ofthe three treatment groups comprised of six replicates of 15 fish per plastic tank. Body weight,and two linear measurements (total and standard length) were taken twice weekly on each ofthe fish in all the tanks and the respective length-weight relationship and condition factor (K)were computed. Weekly gain, final weight, average daily gain, absolute, relative, specific andmean growth rates for the three groups were evaluated and compared. Results showed that allparameters studied except final total length were significantly (P<.05) affected by feedingregimen. The coefficient of determination for all ANOVA had variable values for all growthparameter; Final Weight (83.11%), Absolute Growth Rate (79.19%), Final Total Length(61.30%), Final Standard Length (60.87%), Relative Growth Rate (38.68%), SpecificGrowth Rate (35.57%), Mean Growth Rate (32.23%) and Condition Factor (12.83%). The 6-hourly treatment group mostly had the highest values across all the parameters studied butwas not statistically different (P>.05) from the values obtained in the 8-hourly group.
Growth performance of broiler chickens fed maize offal and crayfish-waste based diets
Authors: Nsa E. E. , Essien A. I.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to evaluate the value of maize offal and cray fish waste meals as the main energy and protein sources respectively in broiler chicken diets. One hundred and twenty day-old Lohmann Brown broiler chicks were randomly allotted into two treatment groups of three replicates of 60 and 20 birds, respectively. Maize offal and crayfish waste meals were used to replace maize and soybean/fishmeal, respectively in the control diet (T1 ) to form (T2 ). Growth parameters monitored were final live weight, daily weight gain, feed 2 conversion ratio, internal and external body linear measurements were evaluated were statistically analysed using the studentized t-test at 5% and 1% probability. Results showed significantly (P<0.05) higher values in all the parameters apart from feed intake for birds on the control diet. The final live weight of birds on the test diet (T2 ) only reached that of the control at 10 weeks of age. The phenotypic correlation of body weight and linear body measurements for birds on both the control and test treatment diets were high and positively significant (P<0.01). However, birds on the control diet had the longest body parts than those of the test diet, likewise the internal body parts. When expressed based on percentage body weight, birds on the test diet tended to have longer external and internal body parts. It is concluded that if maize offal and crayfish waste are to be used as total replacement for maize, soybean and fishmeal, the period of broiler production should be extended from 8 weeks to 10 weeks for birds to reach market weight and with attendance lower cost of production.
Growth performance and blood profile of broiler chickens as influenced by oral administration of lime fruit (Citrus aurentifolia)
Authors: Aikpitanyi K. U. , Imasuen J. A.
Published: February 2021

The study was aimed at investigating the effect of oral administration of lime fruit on growth performance, haematology and serum biochemistry in broiler chicken. A total of 150, one day-old unsexed broiler chickens of Anak 2000 strain, were used in a completely randomized design (CRD). The birds were randomly allotted to five treatments with each group having 30 birds, replicated three times to give 10 birds per replicate. Treatment 1 was the control and had no additive; Treatment 2, had 5 mL of lime juice per litre of water every day; Treatment 3, had 7.5g of diced whole lime fruit per litre of water every day; treatment 4, had 5mL of lime juice per litre of water in alternate day while Treatment 5, had 7.5g of diced whole lime fruit per litre of water in alternate day. The experimental trial was for six (6) weeks after a brooding period of two weeks. Significant differences were observed in the final weight, feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio. Treatment 4 with 5mL of lime juice per litre of water in alternate day recorded better growth performance in the study, with weight gain and feed conversion ratio of 2963.35g/bird and 1.91, respectively. Results from haematological and serum biochemistry characteristics showed varied significant differences in some parameters. Haemoglobin values were between the range of 10.00g/dL in Treatment 3 and 11.80g/dL in Treatment 2. Total white blood cell (TWBC) was significantly highest in  Treatment 2 (75.20 x103 /µL), and least in Treatment 3 (66.20 x103 /µL). Total plasma cholesterol was highest in the control treatment with 133mg/dL and the least value was obtained from Treatment 2 with 104mg/dL. The study supports the use of lime fruit (juice or whole fruit) to promote growth and blood characteristics of broiler chickens which ultimately contributes to the improvement of the bird's overall productivity.
Haematological response of broiler chickens to garlic (Allium sativum) as an additive
Authors: Bot M. H. , Ajimohun F. F. , Stephen R. R. , Olaiya O. D. , Daniel L. N. , Udokainyang A. D.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of using garlic (Allium sativum) as an additive on haematological profile in broiler chicken production. The study was carried out at Livestock Investigation Department (L.I.D) of the National Veterinary Research Institute (N.V.R.I), Vom. The experiment lasted eight weeks. A total of 144, one day-old broiler chicks of Arbor acre breed were used for the study in a completely randomized design (CRD). The birds were allotted into four (4) dietary treatments with each having three (3) replicates. Processed and ground garlic was added into the drinking water of each treatment at 0g, 3g, 6g and 9g per liter of drinking water representing treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. The result of haematological analysis showed that all the parameters were significantly (P<0.05) different across the dietary treatments. The white blood cells in T4 (12.13) which is higher than 10.21, 8.65 and 7,68 respectively. This indicates that the health of the birds was challenged in T4 even though they are all within the normal range (Merck's Manual, 1998). Packed cell volume (PCV) level of T4 was the Lowest among the dietary treatments. It can therefore be concluded that garlic used as an additive in drinking water showed no deleterious effect in haematological parameters of broiler chickens rather it boosted their immunity.
Starter broiler feed brand preferences by small scale poultry farmers versus performance of broiler chickens fed the preferred feed brands in Owerri zone, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Etuk E. B. , Ukomadu E. S.
Published: February 2021

The production and sale of 28 day-old broiler chicks, a business known locally as “brood and sell” is rapidly growing among small scale poultry farmers in Owerri zone, Imo state, South East Nigeria. Feed however, is a major budget item that affects profit in the business. This study therefore, evaluated the preferences of farmers for the different starter broiler feed brands versus the performance of such broilers on these feed brands. A purposively structured questionnaire was designed and administered to forty eight small scale poultry farmers in seven local government areas in the zone. Based on the responses from the farmers, a 28-day feeding trial was carried out at our station using 210, one-day old Marshal broiler chicks to determine their performance on feed brands preferred by the farmers. Results of the survey indicated that five feed brands coded TF, VF, AF, HF and ZF were actively distributed in the zone. VF brand was the most preferred (49.10%) and TF second most preferred (29.07%) while HF brand was the least preferred (3.66%). Results of the feeding trial indicated that TF recorded the best body weight gain (495.22g), feed conversion ratio (FCR), 2.53 and 0.00% mortality while HF recorded the least body weight gain (214.29g), poorest FCR (5.57) and highest mortality rate (14.28%). The VF brand mostly preferred by the farmers from our survey recorded 469.04g body weight gain, 2.87 FCR and 0.00% mortality. TF which outperformed other brands however, cost much more per kg. Preference of feed brand by small scale poultry farmers in Owerri zone, from the results obtained is influenced by cost but the quality of such feed brand was also a major consideration.
Effect of methanolic stem bark extract of Azadihiracta Indica on morbidity and mortality of chickens experimentally infected with velogenic Newcastle disease virus (kudu 113)
Authors: Okoroafor O. N. , Ezema W. S. , Omornuwa A. O. , Ngene A. A. , Ani A. O. , Okosi R. I.
Published: February 2021

Newcastle Disease (ND) is a dangerous disease of poultry all over the world. Economically, ND is characterized by mortality which may reach up to 100% in affected poultry farms. This study was designed to evaluate the protective properties of crude methanolic extract of Azadihiracta indica in chickens experimentally infected with a velogenic strain of ND virus. A hundred- day old cockerel was brooded for three weeks before randomly divided into five equal groups (I, II, III, IV and V). They were not vaccinated with ND vaccine LaSota. At six weeks of age, each bird in groups I-IV was inoculated with 0.2mL of the live ND viral inoculum intramuscularly while group V was not inoculated with the virus. Thereafter, groups I, II and III were daily given in drinking water 200mg/kg, 400mg/kg and 600mg/kg of Azadihiracta indica extract, respectively whereas, groups IV and V were not treated with the extract. All the groups were monitored for the onset of clinical signs, morbidity and mortality rate. In all the groups inoculated with the ND virus, about 80% birds showed signs of depression, gasping, coughing, increased thirst, complete inappetence, huddling, diarrhoea, partial/complete paralysis on day 2 post inoculation (PI). A hundred percent (100%) mortality rate was recorded for groups I and IV by day 5 PI and in groups II and III on day 6 PI. Therefore, under the conditions of this study, oral administration of Azadihiracta indica extract does not protect birds from ND.
Phenotypic correlation among morphometric traits in new zealand white rabbits reared under tropical condition
Authors: Abe O. S. , Amusan S. A. , Ozoje M. O.
Published: February 2021

A total of 48 New Zealand White (NZW) rabbit was used for the phenotypic estimation study. After two weeks of birth, the kittens were introduced to commercial grower mash (CGM) and were fed solely on the commercial grower mash diets with the following characteristics; 17.5% crude protein, 16% crude fibre and 2500 kcal/kg diet digestible energy ad libitum. Morphometric traits such as Fore Limb (FL), Hind Limb (HL), Body Length (BL), Thigh Girth (TG), Abdominal Circumference (AC) and Leg Length (LL) in NZW rabbit were measured on the rabbit with the aid of measuring tape in centimetre (cm) at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age. The first measurement was taken on the day of weaning (4 weeks). The data obtained was analysed using the simple linear correlation procedure of SAS analytical package to obtain the correlation between the various morphometric traits studied. The study lasted for 12 weeks. From the study the phenotypic correlations obtained were all positive and ranged between moderate (0.47, the lowest value) and high (0.89, the highest value) correlated value for all ages considered for the NZW rabbit. The result further showed that BL was highly correlated (<70) with other morphometric trait at 4 and 12 weeks of age. Moderate correlation was recorded more at the 8 weeks of age of the rabbit when compared to 4 and 12 weeks of age. The TG and HL recorded the highest correlation value among the other morphometric traits at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age. This shows that as the animal grows, there is a positive relationship between the various morphometric traits and further implies growth is more inclined in other part of the body than FL and LL immediately after weaning while it evened out after 4 weeks of age.
Effect of dosage of vitamin E on physiological and blood parameters in growing Arbor acre pullets under humid tropical conditions
Authors: Abioja M. O. , Abiona J. A. , Akinjute O. F. , Tomori A. A. , Adebodun M. A. , Olowu B. N. , Oyebowale H. D. , Fagbemi O. I. , Oloruntola T. R. , Olaniyan O. I. , Abdul A. A. , Akomolafe O. O.
Published: February 2021

One hundred and forty-four growing Arbor acre broiler breeder pullets were used to determine the effect of vitamin E (dL-α-tocopheryl acetate; VE) on physiological and blood responses. The birds aged 21 days were randomly assigned to 4 treatments comprising 0, 50, 100, 150mgVE/kg of diet, with 3 replicates per treatment till day 84. Data obtained for rectal temperature (RT), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), skin temperature under wing (STW) and on the breast (STB), haematology and plasma biochemistry were subjected to analysis of variance. In female chickens, VE significantly (p<0.05) affected HR, STW, WBC, heterophil, lymphocyte and H/L ratio but did not affect RT, RR, STB, PCV, RBC, Hb concentration, eosinophil, monocyte, basophil, MCV, MCH, MCHC and biochemical parameters. Only pullets on 100mg/kg VE had lower HR than the control group. For STW, 50mg/kg VE had lower value than the control. VE, irrespective of dosage, increased (p<0.05) WBC and lymphocyte in pullets compared to control group. Except in 100mg/kg feed group, heterophil and H/L ratio in pullets on 50 and 150mg/kg feed recorded lower values than the control. VE administration of at least 50mg/kg in the diet of growing broiler breeder chickens might help in decreasing skin temperature, improving immunity and reducing stress underhot conditions.
Honey administration in laying pullets during hot-dry season does not alter lipids and vitamin A content of eggs
Authors: Abioja M. O. , Adekunle J. A. , Adekunle M. O. , Sodipe O. G.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was carried out to determine the effect of honey on lipid profile and vitamin A content of eggs from laying pullets during hot-dry season. One hundred and twenty laying pullets (aged 28 weeks) used were randomly assigned to 3 doses of honey: 0 (0H), 10 (10H) and 20ml honey (20H) per litre water for 16 weeks. Each treatment group consists of 4 replicates with 10 birds per replicate. During a 16-week experimental period, data on egg cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL and vitamin A were determined and subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Egg cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL and vitamin A concentrations were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by dosage of honey in drinking water. Birds on 0H, 10H and 20H recorded 1163.8, 1154.7 and 1160.0 mg/dL respectively for egg cholesterol and 129.8, 151.0 and 123.3 IU vitamin A, respectively. In conclusion, administration of honey in drinking water of laying pullets to combat heat stress during hot-dry season may not affect egg lipids and vitamin A content.
Estimation of heritability and repeatability for pre-weaning body weights of domestic rabbits raised in the humid tropics
Authors: Adeolu A. I. , Ogunnupebi J. T.
Published: February 2021

Heritability and repeatability estimates are needed for the genetic evaluation of livestock populations and consequently for the purpose of upgrading or improvement. Pooled data on 302 progenies from three consecutive parities of purebred rabbit breeds (Chinchilla, Dutch and New Zealand white) raised in Derived Savanna Zone of Nigeria were used to estimate heritability and repeatability for pre-weaning body weights between 1st and 8th week of age. The experiment was carried out at the Rabbitry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki. Traits studied include: Kit Weight at birth (KWB), 2nd week (K2W), 4th week (K4W), 6th week (K6W) and 8th week (K8W). Nested random effects analysis of (Co) variance as described by Statistical Analysis system (SAS) were employed in the estimations. Respective heritability estimates from the sire component (h2S ) and repeatability (R) as intra-class correlations of repeated measurements from the three parities for KWB, K2W, K4W and K8W were 0.59±0.24, 0.55±0.24, 0.93±0.31, 0.28±0.17, 0.64±0.26 and 0.12±0.14, 0.05±0.14, 0.58±0.02, 0.60±0.11, 0.20±0.14. Heritability and repeatability (except R for KWB and K2W) estimates are moderate to high. In conclusion, since pre-weaning body weights in the present study tended to be moderately to highly heritable and repeatable, hence, improvement of rabbits raised in derived savanna zone can be realized through genetic selection criterions.
Carcass characteristics of rabbits fed different forages as supplement
Authors: Ibrahim H.
Published: February 2021

The experiment was carried out to determine the carcass characteristics of weaned rabbits fed selected forages as feed supplement. A total number of thirty-six (36) weaned mixed breed of rabbits were allotted randomly to four (4) treatments with nine (9) rabbits per treatment and further replicated three (3) times with three rabbit per replicate and designated as Control (T1) concentrate plus (+) Amaranthus, (T2) concentrate plus (+) tridax, (T3) concentrate plus (+) fig leaves, (T4) concentrate plus (+) water melon waste. The experiment lasted for eight (8) weeks. Data were generated on carcass characteristics, internal organs, by-products. Results obtained revealed that the value of carcass traits, internal organs and by-products were not significantly (P>0.05) different for all the parameters obtained except for liver and lungs (internal organs), pelts (skin) and hind legs (by-products). Based on the findings, it can be concluded that T1 (concentrate plus Amaranthus), was better than other treatment groups and therefore can be used as supplement to concentrate feed.
Auto-sexing potential and growth performance in Rhode Island, Nigerian local chickens and their reciprocal crosses
Authors: Jubril A. E. , Fayeye T. R. , Ademola A. A. , Gunn H. H.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine auto-sexing potential in Rhode Island, Nigerian local chicken and their reciprocal crosses. A total of 241 eggs were set in the incubator to determine the fertility, hatchability, % Hatch, % dead in shell, % dead in cell and % deformed chicks in the four genotypes (Rhode Island Red (RIR) x Rhode Island White (RIW), Rhode Island Red (RIR) x Rhode Island White (RIW), Nigerian Local Red (NLR) x Rhode Island White (RIW) and Nigerian Local Red (NLR) x Nigerian Local White (NLW). Only 94 eggs were hatched. RIRXRIW crossbred chicks had the highest percentage fertility of 88.89% followed by RIRxRIW (86.27%), NLRXRIW (77.36%) and NLRxNLW (72.31%), respectively. RIRxNLW had the highest percentage hatchability of 65.19%, followed by RIRxRIW (51.56%), NLRxNLW (51.06%) and NLRxRIW (24.39%). It was observed in the hatch-out analysis that the cross between NLRxRIW had the highest percentage of dead in shell (29.27%) followed by RIRxRIW (17.19%), NLRxNLW (17.02%) and RIRxNLW (11.36%), respectively. The highest percentage of dead in cell was recorded in NLRxRIW crossbred (43.33%), followed by NLRxNLW (31.92%), RIRxRIW (28.13%) and RIRxNLW (15.91%). The observed deformed chicks were highest in NLRxNLW (20.85%) followed by RIRxNLW (10.34%), RIRxRIW (6.06%) and NLRxNLW (0%), respectively. Also observed was the occurrence of bangers with NLRxRIW, having the highest occurrence of bangers (9.08%) and with NLRxNLW having no occurrence of bangers. The records of weekly body weight were taken on the 94 chicks and chi square analysis was used to test colour inheritance of chicks. Significant (P<0.05) difference was observed among genotypes in body weight of chicks at hatch and from weeks 1 to 8 weeks of age. The observed changes on body weight from 0 to 8th week of age of chicks showed significant difference across the four different genetic crossed groups (P<0.05) and weight at the 8th week showed that the cross between RIRxRIW (216.93g) had better in growth as compared to the cross between NLRxRIW (202.75g) and NLRxNLW (193.17g) which were statistically similar (P>0.05) and RIRxNLW (179.75g) crossbred chicks which had the lowest bodyweight at 8 weeks of age. The chi square (X2) analysis revealed that both RIRxRIW and NLRxRIW crossbred chicks were autosexed. The study concluded that selection for plumage colour showed great potential in determining the probability of chicks being autosexed. Also, pure bred of RIRXRIW and reciprocal cross of NLRXRIW showed great potential of producing autosexed chicks, while results on the direct crosses of NLRXNLW and RIRXNLW suggest that the pattern of inheritance of plumage colour is not simple. The study recommends further investigation to further ascertain the mode of plumage colour inheritance in the Nigerian Local Chickens.
Performance of broiler chickens administered graded levels of bitter kola (Garcinia kola, Heckel) as feed additive
Authors: Owen O. J. , Briggs B. P. , Gunn H. H.
Published: February 2021

A study of 28 days (4 weeks) was carried out at the Poultry Section of Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port-Harcourt Rivers State-Nigeria, to determine the effect of bitter kola (Garcinia kola, Heckel) powder as a growth promoter in broiler chicken diets. One hundred and forty-four (144) unsexed one day-old Anak strain broiler chicks were subjected to various concentrated levels of bitter kola at T1 (control), T2 (5g/kg feed), T3 (10g/kg feed), T4 (15g/kg feed), respectively using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with 36 birds/treatment and 12 birds/replicate. The parameters evaluated were weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and cost production. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results obtained indicated significant effect (P<0.05) in all the growth parameters evaluated. The mean total feed intake was 12.00kg, 11.85kg, 12.50kg and 11.55kg respectively for T1 , T2 , T3 and T4 . Mean total weight gain was highest in T4 (2.91kg) and least in T1 (2.57kg). On feed conversion ratio, T4 recorded the best with 3.97. It was 1 4 therefore advocated that bitter kola should be included in broiler diets as a feed additive to improve broiler chicken performance.
Comparative study on the semen quality characteristics of parthenotes and parent toms reared in Nsukka
Authors: Udeh F. U. , Ohagenyi I. J. , Ikeh N. E. , Onodugo M. O. , Udeh V. C. , Ezea J. E.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted to evaluate the semen quality characteristics of turkey parthenotes and parent toms. A total of twenty-four turkeys were used for the study. These comprised of twelve parthenotes toms and twelve parent toms. Parthenotes are male turkeys produced through parthenogenesis. The toms were subjected to abdominal massage techniques for semen collection. Semen collection was done twice per week and analyzed for volume, motility, sperm concentration, like sperm, abnormal sperm, normal sperm, dead sperm, total sperm/ejaculates and total motile sperm cells. The results showed that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in semen volume, sperm concentration, normal sperm cell, abnormal sperm and total motile sperm with mean values being 0.35mL, 1.74x109/mL, 97.80%, 2.20%, 1.68x1012 and 0.41ml, 1.50x109/mL, 94.00%, 6.00% and 1.42x1012, respectively for both parthenotes and parent toms. However, semen parameters such as motility, live sperm cell, dead sperm cell and total sperm/ejaculate showed no significant difference (p>0.05) with values of 96.7%, 97.7%, 2.30% and 6.07x109 for parthenotes toms and 93.20%, 98.50%, 1.50% and 6.23x109 for parent toms. It was observed from the results that turkey parthenotes possess good quality semen characteristic and therefore, recommended for use in poultry industry for turkey production.
Unconstrained Estimation of VLBI Global Observing System Station Coordinates
Authors: Mikschi Markus , Böhm Johannes , Schartner Matthias
Published: February 2021

Abstract. The International VLBI Service for Geodesy and Astrometry (IVS) is currently setting up a network of smaller and thus faster radio telescopes observing at broader bandwidths for improved determination of geodetic parameters.
However, this new VLBI Global Observing System (VGOS) network is not yet strongly linked to the legacy S/X network and the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) as only station WESTFORD has ITRF2014 coordinates.
In this work, we calculated VGOS station coordinates based on publicly available VGOS sessions until the end of 2019 while defining the geodetic datum by fixing the Earth orientation parameters and the coordinates of the WESTFORD station in an unconstrained adjustment. This set of new coordinates allows the determination of geodetic parameters from the analysis of VGOS sessions, which would otherwise not be possible.
As it is the concept of VGOS to use smaller, faster slewing antennas in order to increase the number of observations, shorter estimation intervals for the zenith wet delays and the tropospheric gradients along with different relative constraints were tested and the best performing parametrization, judged by the baseline length repeatability, was used for the estimation of the VGOS station coordinates.
The Contingent Body
Authors: Dashti Sepideh Tajalizadeh
Published: February 2021

The Contingent Body
Address the Issue
Authors: Fuller Joel Addison , Cook Seth Adam
Published: February 2021

Address the Issue
Lethal Weapon: How Pennsylvania's Stand-Your-Ground Law Effectively Limits the Reasonable Belief Element of Self-Defense
Authors: Simons Matthew G.
Published: February 2021

N/A
Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Inovatif dalam Mendukung Kemajuan Daerah Perkotaan
Authors: Christian Yulius
Published: February 2021

Perkembangan dunia dewasa ini telah berjaan begitu cepat, teknologi telah membuat batasan antar informasi dan kebutuhan manusia semakin dekat. Kecepatan dan ketepatan ini juga dibutuhkan dalam proses interaksi pemerintah dan warga Negara, namun sayangnya mobilitas warga Negara yang tinggi tidak diimbangi dengan ketepatan dan juga kecepatan pemerintah dalam hal pelayanan khususnya pelayanan kepada publik. penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk menganalisis inovasi sebagai cara memberdayakan masyarakat agar berperan aktif dalam kemajuan daerah perkotaan. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif deskriptif yang melukiskan suatu keadaan objektif atau peristiwa tertentu berdasarkan fakta-fakta yang tampak atau sebagaimana mestinya yang kemudian diiringi dengan upaya pengambilan kesimpulan umum berdasarkan fakta-fakta historis tersebut. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah kota yang telah melakukan inovasi di daerahnya, sedangkan sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah inovasi yang dilakukan oleh Kota Bontang, Kota Palembang, dan Kota Makassar yang bertujuan untuk memberdayakan masyarakat agar berperan aktif dalam membantu mewujudkan kemajuan daerahnya. Hasil dari penelitian ini terbukti bahwasanya Inovasi adalah transformasi pengetahuan kepada produk, proses dan jasa baru, tindakan menggunakan sesuatu yang baru. Dimana inovasi merupakan eksploitasi yang berhasil dari suatu gagasan baru atau dengan kata lain merupakan mobilisasi pengetahuan, keterampilan teknologis dan pengalaman untuk menciptakan produk, proses dan jasa baru.
SOCIAL REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DRUG USER FOR THE CATHOLIC CHURCH: THE IMPLICATIONS FOR CARE
Authors: Barbosa Diogo Jacintho , Gomes Antonio Marcos Tosoli , Gomes Marcia Pereira , De Melo Laercio Daleon , Paes Leandra Da Silva , Soares Gisely De Oliveira
Published: February 2021

Objective: to reflect on the social representations of psychoactive drug users for the Catholic Church. Method: this is a qualitative, descriptive, reflective study. Inclusion criteria were based on subjects over the age of 18 and who have been attending the religious group for at least six months, excluding participants who did not meet these criteria. The Social Representations Theory was adopted as a theoretical framework and the Free Word Association Test as a data collection instrument. Results: The final sample of the study was composed of 100 participants, of which 34 were female and 66 were male. It was noticed, regarding the level of education, that most had completed high school (39 participants) and, regarding the age group, 30 were between 20 and 30 years old and 26, between 31 and 40 years old. Conclusion: the Catholic religion with the highest number of believers in Brazil is pointed out, thus, understanding its representation regarding the user of psychoactive drugs aims to directly collaborate in the construction of tools capable of enhancing the treatment offered for these users not only in the therapeutic communities, but also in the Unified Health System, considering that today it is admitted that the human being is biopsychosocial-spiritual.
CONHECIMENTO DE PUÉRPERAS SOBRE BOAS PRÁTICAS EM CENTRO DE PARTO
Authors: Silva Elias De Almeida , Pereira Ana Maria Martins , Dantas Sibele Lima Da Costa , Soares Paula Renata Amorim Lessa , Melo Laura Pinto Torres de , Costa Nicolau Da , Gomes Antonia De Maria , Torres Joana Darc Martins
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: analisar o conhecimento das puérperas acerca das boas práticas realizadas por enfermeiros na assistência ao parto e nascimento. Método: trata-se de um estudo transversal desenvolvido no centro de parto normal e alojamento conjunto de um hospital municipal. Contou-se com a participação de 204 puérperas internadas com idade igual ou superior a 18 anos. Realizou-se a coleta de dados no período de agosto a novembro de 2018 por meio da aplicação de um formulário estruturado. Analisaram-se os dados por meio da estatística descritiva e analítica. Resultados: evidenciou-se que as puérperas têm conhecimento quanto às posições que promovem o maior conforto durante o trabalho de parto e parto, bem como o direito a se ter um acompanhante. Revelou-se, porém, o conhecimento reduzido no que se refere às práticas não farmacológicas para o alívio da dor. Conclusão: verifica-se a necessidade de se intensificar as ações durante a assistência pré-natal na perspectiva de se empoderar a mulher para o trabalho de parto e parto.