bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inefficient Cross-Presentation Limits the CD8+ T Cell Response to a Subdominant Tumor Antigen Epitope
Authors: Otahal Pavel , Hutchinson Sandra C. , Mylin Lawrence M. , Tevethia M. Judith , Tevethia Satvir S. , Schell Todd D.
Published: April 2014

CD8+ T lymphocytes (TCD8) responding to subdominant epitopes provide alternate targets for the immunotherapy of cancer, particularly when self-tolerance limits the response to immunodominant epitopes. However, the mechanisms that promote TCD8 subdominance to tumor Ags remain obscure. We investigated the basis for the lack of priming against a subdominant tumor epitope following immunization of C57BL/6 (B6) mice with SV40 large tumor Ag (T Ag)-transformed cells. Immunization of B6 mice with wild-type T Ag-transformed cells primes TCD8 specific for three immunodominant T Ag epitopes (epitopes I, II/III, and IV) but fails to induce TCD8 specific for the subdominant T Ag epitope V. Using adoptively transferred TCD8 from epitope V-specific TCR transgenic mice and immunization with T Ag-transformed cells, we demonstrate that the subdominant epitope V is weakly cross-presented relative to immunodominant epitopes derived from the same protein Ag. Priming of naive epitope V-specific TCR transgenic TCD8 in B6 mice required cross-presentation by host APC. However, robust expansion of these TCD8 required additional direct presentation of the subdominant epitope by T Ag-transformed cells and was only significant following immunization with T Ag-expressing cells lacking the immunodominant epitopes. These results indicate that limited cross-presentation coupled with competition by immunodominant epitope-specific TCD8 contributes to the subdominant nature of a tumor-specific epitope. This finding has implications for vaccination strategies targeting TCD8 responses to cancer.
Phenotype and Homing of CD4 Tumor-Specific T Cells Is Modulated by Tumor Bulk
Authors: Benigni Fabio , Zimmermann Valérie S. , Hugues Stephanie , Caserta Stefano , Basso Veronica , Rivino Laura , Ingulli Elizabeth , Malherbe Laurent , Glaichenhaus Nicolas , Mondino Anna
Published: April 2014

Technical difficulties in tracking endogenous CD4 T lymphocytes have limited the characterization of tumor-specific CD4 T cell responses. Using fluorescent MHC class II/peptide multimers, we defined the fate of endogenous Leishmania receptor for activated C kinase (LACK)-specific CD4 T cells in mice bearing LACK-expressing TS/A tumors. LACK-specific CD44highCD62Llow CD4 T cells accumulated in the draining lymph nodes and had characteristics of effector cells, secreting IL-2 and IFN-γ upon Ag restimulation. Increased frequencies of CD44highCD62Llow LACK-experienced cells were also detected in the spleen, lung, liver, and tumor itself, but not in nondraining lymph nodes, where the cells maintained a naive phenotype. The absence of systemic redistribution of LACK-specific memory T cells correlated with the presence of tumor. Indeed, LACK-specific CD4 T cells with central memory features (IL-2+IFN-γ−CD44highCD62Lhigh cells) accumulated in all peripheral lymph nodes of mice immunized with LACK-pulsed dendritic cells and after tumor resection. Together, our data demonstrate that although tumor-specific CD4 effector T cells producing IFN-γ are continuously generated in the presence of tumor, central memory CD4 T cells accumulate only after tumor resection. Thus, the continuous stimulation of tumor-specific CD4 T cells in tumor-bearing mice appears to hinder the systemic accumulation of central memory CD4 T lymphocytes.
Nitric Oxide Inhibits IFN-α Production of Human Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Partly via a Guanosine 3′,5′-Cyclic Monophosphate-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Morita Rimpei , Uchiyama Takashi , Hori Toshiyuki
Published: April 2014

NO, a free radical gas, is known to be critically involved not only in vascular relaxation but also in host defense. Besides direct bactericidal effects, NO has been shown to inhibit Th1 responses and modulate immune responses in vivo, although the precise mechanism is unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of NO on human plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) to explore the possibility that NO might affect innate as well as adaptive immunity through pDCs. We found that NO suppressed IFN-α production of pDCs partly via a cGMP-dependent mechanism, which was accompanied by down-regulation of IFN regulatory factor 7 expression. Furthermore, treatment of pDCs with NO decreased production of IL-6 and TNF-α and up-regulated OX40 ligand expression. In accordance with these changes, pDCs treated with NO plus CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide AAC-30 promoted differentiation of naive CD4+ T cells into a Th2 phenotype. Moreover, pDCs did not express inducible NO synthase even after treatment with AAC-30, LPS, and several cytokines. These results suggest that exogenous NO and its second messenger, cGMP, alter innate as well as adaptive immune response through modulating the functions of pDCs and may be involved in the pathogenesis of certain Th2-dominant allergic diseases.
Islet-Specific Glucose-6-Phosphatase Catalytic Subunit-Related Protein-Reactive CD4+ T Cells in Human Subjects
Authors: Yang Junbao , Danke Nancy A. , Berger DeAnna , Reichstetter Sandra , Reijonen Helena , Greenbaum Carla , Pihoker Catherine , James Eddie A. , Kwok William W.
Published: April 2014

Islet-specific glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit-related protein (IGRP) is recognized as a major autoantigen for autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) in the NOD mouse model. This study was undertaken to examine CD4+ T cell responses toward IGRP in human subjects. The tetramer-guided epitope mapping approach was used to identify IGRP-specific CD4+ T cell epitopes. IGRP23–35 and IGRP247–259 were identified as DRA1*0101/DRB1*0401-restricted epitopes. IGRP13–25 and IGRP226–238 were identified as DRA1*0101/DRB1*0301-restricted epitopes. IGRP-specific tetramers were used to evaluate the prevalence of IGRP-reactive T cells in healthy and T1D subjects. More than 80% of subjects with either DRB1*0401 or DRB1*0301 haplotype have IGRP-specific CD4+ T cell responses for at least one IGRP epitope. IGRP-specific T cells from both healthy and T1D groups produce both γ-IFN and IL-10. DRA1*0101/DRB1*0401 IGRP247–259-restricted T cells also show cross-reactivity to an epitope derived from liver/kidney glucose-6-phosphatase. The detection of IGRP-reactive T cells in both type 1 diabetic subjects and healthy subjects and recent reports of other autoreactive T cells detected in healthy subjects underscore the prevalence of potentially autoreactive T cells in the peripheral immune system of the general population.
C5b-9 Terminal Complex Protects Oligodendrocytes from Apoptotic Cell Death by Inhibiting Caspase-8 Processing and Up-Regulating FLIP
Authors: Cudrici Cornelia , Niculescu Florin , Jensen Timothy , Zafranskaia Ekaterina , Fosbrink Matthew , Rus Violeta , Shin Moon L. , Rus Horea
Published: April 2014

Activation of the terminal complement cascade involving C5 to C9 proteins has a beneficial role for oligodendrocytes (OLG) in experimental allergic encephalomyelitis, an animal model of multiple sclerosis, by protecting them from apoptotic cell death. We have previously shown that sublytic C5b-9 complexes, through posttranslational regulation of Bad, inhibit the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis induced by serum deprivation. In the present study, we examined the possible involvement of the caspase-8 and Fas pathway in OLG apoptosis and the role of C5b-9 in this process. In a serum-free defined medium, OLG undergo apoptosis and differentiation concomitantly. Under this condition, we found that caspase-8 processing was increased in association with Bid cleavage and markedly reduced expression of cellular FLIP long isoform protein. The caspase-8 inhibitor Z-IETD-FMK inhibited cell death associated with differentiation in a dose-dependent manner. Exposure to C5b-9 induced an inhibition of caspase-8 activation, Bid cleavage, and a significant increase in expression of cellular FLIP long isoform. These C5b-9 effects were reversed by PI3K inhibitor LY294002. C5b-9 also down-regulated the expression of FasL and the Fas-induced apoptosis. These data suggest that C5b-9 through PI3K signaling can rescue OLG from Fas-mediated apoptosis by regulating caspase-8 processing.
TLR6 Modulates First Trimester Trophoblast Responses to Peptidoglycan
Authors: Abrahams Vikki M. , Aldo Paulomi B. , Murphy Shaun P. , Visintin Irene , Koga Kaori , Wilson Gabriella , Romero Roberto , Sharma Surendra , Mor Gil
Published: April 2014

Intrauterine bacterial infections are a well-established cause of pregnancy complications. One key observation in a number of abnormal pregnancies is that placental apoptosis is significantly elevated. First trimester trophoblast cells are known to express TLR1 and TLR2 and to undergo apoptosis following exposure to Gram-positive bacterial peptidoglycan (PDG). Thus, the objectives of this study were to determine whether PDG-induced pregnancy complications are associated with placental apoptosis and to characterize the cellular mechanisms involved. We have demonstrated, using an animal model, that delivery of PDG to pregnant mice early in gestation resulted in highly elevated placental apoptosis, evidenced by trophoblast M-30 and active caspase 3 immunostaining. Using an in vitro model of human first trimester trophoblasts, apoptosis induced by PDG was found to be mediated by both TLR1 and TLR2 and that this could be blocked by the presence of TLR6. Furthermore, in the presence of TLR6, exposure to PDG resulted in trophoblast NF-κB activation and triggered these cells to secrete IL-8 and IL-6. The findings of this study suggest that a Gram-positive bacterial infection, through TLR2 and TLR1, may directly promote the elevated trophoblast cell death and that this may be the underlying mechanism of pregnancy complications, such as preterm delivery. Furthermore, the expression of TLR6 may be a key factor in determining whether the response to PDG would be apoptosis or inflammation.
A DNA Vaccine Prime Followed by a Liposome-Encapsulated Protein Boost Confers Enhanced Mucosal Immune Responses and Protection
Authors: Yang Kejian , Whalen Barbara J. , Tirabassi Rebecca S. , Selin Liisa K. , Levchenko Tatyana S. , Torchilin Vladimir P. , Kislauskis Edward H. , Guberski Dennis L.
Published: April 2014

A variety of DNA vaccine prime and recombinant viral boost immunization strategies have been developed to enhance immune responses in humans, but inherent limitations to these strategies exist. There is still an overwhelming need to develop safe and effective approaches that raise broad humoral and T cell-mediated immune responses systemically and on mucosal surfaces. We have developed a novel mucosal immunization regimen that precludes the use of viral vectors yet induces potent T cell responses. Using hepatitis B surface Ag (HBsAg), we observed that vaccination of BALB/c mice with an i.m. HBsAg-DNA vaccine prime followed by an intranasal boost with HBsAg protein encapsulated in biologically inert liposomes enhanced humoral and T cell immune responses, particularly on mucosal surfaces. Intranasal live virus challenge with a recombinant vaccinia virus expressing HBsAg revealed a correlation between T cell immune responses and protection of immunized mice. A shortened immunization protocol was developed that was successful in both adult and neonatal mice. These results support the conclusion that this new approach is capable of generating a Th-type-1-biased, broad spectrum immune response, specifically at mucosal surfaces. The success of this design may provide a safe and effective vaccination alternative for human use.
Generation of Anaphylatoxins by Human β-Tryptase from C3, C4, and C5
Authors: Fukuoka Yoshihiro , Xia Han-Zhang , Sanchez-Muñoz Laura B. , Dellinger Anthony L. , Escribano Luis , Schwartz Lawrence B.
Published: April 2014

Both mast cells and complement participate in innate and acquired immunity. The current study examines whether β-tryptase, the major protease of human mast cells, can directly generate bioactive complement anaphylatoxins. Important variables included pH, monomeric vs tetrameric forms of β-tryptase, and the β-tryptase-activating polyanion. The B12 mAb was used to stabilize β-tryptase in its monomeric form. C3a and C4a were best generated from C3 and C4, respectively, by monomeric β-tryptase in the presence of low molecular weight dextran sulfate or heparin at acidic pH. High molecular weight polyanions increased degradation of these anaphylatoxins. C5a was optimally generated from C5 at acidic pH by β-tryptase monomers in the presence of high molecular weight dextran sulfate and heparin polyanions, but also was produced by β-tryptase tetramers under these conditions. Mass spectrometry verified that the molecular mass of each anaphylatoxin was correct. Both β-tryptase-generated C5a and C3a (but not C4a) were potent activators of human skin mast cells. These complement anaphylatoxins also could be generated by β-tryptase in releasates of activated skin mast cells. Of further biologic interest, β-tryptase also generated C3a from C3 in human plasma at acidic pH. These results suggest β-tryptase might generate complement anaphylatoxins in vivo at sites of inflammation, such as the airway of active asthma patients where the pH is acidic and where elevated levels of β-tryptase and complement anaphylatoxins are detected.
Cytokine Secretion Depends on Galα(1,3)Gal Expression in a Pig-to-Human Whole Blood Model
Authors: Sæthre Marit , Schneider Mårten K. J. , Lambris John D. , Magotti Paola , Haraldsen Guttorm , Seebach Jörg D. , Mollnes Tom E.
Published: April 2014

Transplants from α1,3-galactosyltransferase (Gal) gene-knockout pigs to nonhuman primates are largely protected from hyperacute but not acute humoral xenograft rejection. The present study investigates the role of Gal in cytokine responses using a novel pig-to-human whole blood in vitro model, developed for species-specific analysis of porcine and human cytokines. Porcine (n = 7) and human (n = 27) cytokines were measured using ELISA or multiplex technology, respectively. Porcine aortic endothelial cells from control (Gal+/+) and Gal-deficient (Gal−/−) pigs were incubated with human lepirudin anticoagulated whole blood from healthy donors. E-selectin expression was measured by flow cytometry. The C3 inhibitor compstatin and a C5aR antagonist were used to study the role of complement. Cytokine species specificity was documented, enabling detection of 2 of 7 porcine cytokines and 13 of 27 human cytokines in one single sample. Gal+/+ porcine aortic endothelial cells incubated with human whole blood showed a marked complement C5b-9 dependent up-regulation of E-selectin and secretion of porcine IL-6 and IL-8. In contrast, Gal−/− cells responded with E-selectin and cytokine expression which was so weak that the role of complement could not be determined. Human IL-6, IL-8, IFN-γ, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, eotaxin, and RANTES were detected in the Gal+/+ system, but virtually no responses were seen in the Gal−/− system (p = 0.03). The increase in human cytokine release was largely complement dependent and, in contrast to the porcine response, mediated through C5a. Species-specific analysis of cytokine release revealed a marked, complement-dependent response when Gal+/+ pig cells were incubated with human whole blood, compared with Gal−/− cells which induced virtually no cytokine release.
Prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in a dairy cattle farm and a research farm in Ghana
Authors: Asante-Poku Adwoa , Aning Kwame G. , Boi-Kikimoto Bashiru , Yeboah-Manu Dorothy
Published: April 2014

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) and to identify the mycobacterial species causing BTB in a dairy farm and research farm. Six hundred and eighty-five cattle were screened for BTB by using the Comparative intradermal tuberculin test (CTT). Positive reactors were slaughtered and carcasses were taken for isolation of mycobacterial species. This was followed by speciation of isolates using both standard conventional and molecular assays. Seventeen of the cattle were positive by CTT, giving a crude BTB prevalence of 2.48% among cattle from the two farms. Six of the 17 samples (35.30%) yielded positive acid-fast bacilli cultures and three of the isolates were identified as Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), which were sub-divided into two Mycobacterium tuberculosis sensu scrito (Mtb) and one Mycobacterium africanum; the remaining three were Mycobacterium other than tuberculoisis (MOTT). Spoligotyping further characterised the two Mtb isolates as Ghana (spoligotype Data Base 4 number 53) and Latin American Mediterranean (LAM), whilst spoligotyping and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) analysis typed the M. africanum as West African 1. Microseq 500 analysis identified two of the MOTT as Mycobacterium flavescens and Mycobacterium Moriokaense respectively, whilst the remaining one could not be identified. This study observed the prevalence of bovine TB among cattle from two farms in Ghana as 2.48% and confirms the public health importance of M. africanum as a pathogen in Ghana.
The quest for One Health: Human Resource training aspects
Authors: Kiwara Angwara , Semakafu Ave-Maria , Frumence Gasto
Published: April 2014

Appropriately trained Human Resources for Health (HRH) are key inputs into One Health. ‘… more than 50% of all infectious diseases of humans originate from animals and that, of the emerging diseases about 75% could be traced back to animal origin’ (Rweyemamu et al. 2006). A comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health, through an appropriate training model for HRH, is a key input. This study aimed to explore if human and veterinary medical schools were using such a model or providing time for this model in their curricula. Specific objectives were to: determine the time that human and veterinary medical schools’ curricula provide for subjects or courses related to the social determinants of health; analyse the curricula contents to establish how they relate to the social determinants of health; and explore how a bio-medical model may influence the graduates’ understanding and practice of One Health. A review of human and veterinary graduate-level medical schools’ curricula in East Africa was performed in April 2013 and May 2013. The findings were: in the curricula, SDH contents for knowledge enhancement about One Health are minimal and that teaching is Germ Theory model-driven and partisan. Out of the total training time for physicians and veterinarians, less than 10% was provided for the social determinants of health-related courses. In conclusion, the curricula and training times provided are inadequate for graduates to fully understand the social determinants of health and their role in One Health. Furthermore, the Germ Theory model that has been adopted addresses secondary causes and is inappropriate. There is a need for more in-depth model. This article suggests that a vicious cycle of ill-health model must be taught.
Investigation of foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks in the Mbala and Kazungula districts of Zambia
Authors: Banda Frank , Kasanga Christopher J. , Sallu Raphael , Sinkala Yona , Sinkombe Tingiya W. , Mulumba Misheck , Rweyemamu Mark M. , Wambura Philemon N.
Published: April 2014

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an acute, highly contagious viral infection of domestic and wild cloven-hoofed animals. It is known to be endemic in Zambia, with periodic outbreaks occurring in different geographical areas of the country. This study was conducted to investigate the presence of FMD virus (FMDV) in reported FMD-suspected cases in cattle from the Kazungula and Mbala districts of Zambia. Sixty epithelial tissues or oesophageal-pharyngeal (OP) scrapings (probang samples) were collected from Mbala (n = 51) and Kazungula (n = 9) and examined for FMDV. The FMDV viral RNA and serotypes were examined by realtime reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and antigen Enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Twenty-two samples (36.7%) were positive for the FMDV genome by qRT-PCR with Cycle threshold (Ct) values ranging from 13 to 31. The FMDV-positive samples from epithelial tissues showed relatively higher Ct values compared to those obtained from OP scrapings, irrespective of geographical location. Forty percent (40%; n = 4) of epithelial tissues from Mbala were serotyped into SAT 2 serotype by antigen ELISA. Kazungula samples were serotyped into SAT 1. These findings indicated that Mbala and Kazungula districts had FMD outbreaks in 2012 that were ascribed to at least FMDV serotype SAT 2 and SAT 1 field strains. Furthermore, regular interaction between buffalos from the Mosi-o Tunya Park and domestic animals from surrounding areas could contribute to the occurrence of regular FMD outbreaks in Kazungula, whilst the uncontrolled animal movements across borders between Mbala and Nsumbawanga could be responsible for disease outbreaks in Mbala. In-depth molecular biological studies, including sequencing and phylogeny of the viruses, should be conducted to elucidate the complex epidemiology of FMD in Zambia, thereby providing valuable information needed for the rational control strategy of FMD in Zambia and neighbouring countries.
Drivers of disease emergence and spread: Is wildlife to blame?
Authors: Kock Richard
Published: April 2014

The global focus on wildlife as a major contributor to emerging pathogens and infectious diseases (EIDs) in humans and domestic animals is not based on field, experimental or dedicated research, but mostly on limited surveys of literature, opinion and the assumption that biodiversity harbours pathogens. The perceived and direct impacts of wildlife, from being a reservoir of certain human and livestock pathogens and as a risk to health, are frequently overstated when compared to the Global burden of disease statistics available from WHO, OIE and FAO. However organisms that evolve in wildlife species can and do spill-over into human landscapes and humans and domestic animal population and, where these organisms adapt to surviving and spreading amongst livestock and humans, these emerging infections can have significant consequences. Drivers for the spill-over of pathogens or evolution of organisms from wildlife reservoirs to become pathogens of humans and domestic animals are varied but almost without exception poorly researched. The changing demographics, spatial distribution and movements, associated landscape modifications (especially agricultural) and behavioural changes involving human and domestic animal populations are probably the core drivers of the apparent increasing trend in emergence of new pathogens and infectious diseases over recent decades.
ADVANZ: Establishing a Pan-African platform for neglected zoonotic disease control through a One Health approach
Authors: Saarnak Christopher F.L. , Johansen Maria V. , Mukaratirwa Samson
Published: April 2014

Advocacy for neglected zoonotic diseases (ADVANZ) is a One Health Neglected Zoonotic Diseases (NZDs) project, funded by the European Commission through its 7th framework programme. The initiative aims at persuading decision makers and empowering stakeholders at local, regional, and international levels towards a coordinated fight against NZDs. ADVANZ is establishing an African platform to share experiences in the prevention and control of NZDs. The platform will compile and package existing knowledge or data on NZDs and generate evidence-based algorithms for improving surveillance and control with the ultimate aim of eliminating and eradicating these diseases. The platform will serve as a forum for African and international stakeholders, as well as existing One Health and NZD networks and harness and consolidate their efforts in the control and prevention of NZDs. The platform had its first meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa in March 2013.
Pseudomyxoma peritonei
Authors: Sureka Binit , Mittal Mahesh K. , Mittal Aliza , Sinha Mukul , Thukral Brij B.
Published: April 2014

Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a rare complication of mucinous tumours of appendiceal or ovarian origin. Other associations are malignancies of the colon, urachus and biliary tree. Large amounts of extracellular and peritoneal mucin result in distortion and loss of function of visceral organs. Currently, radiology plays a critical role in diagnosing this rare entity, in follow-up and in predicting the outcome of cytoreductive surgeries.
Morphology and Classification of the Southern Sombreiro -Warri Deltaic Plain Soils Surounded by Mangrove Forests in Niger Delta
Authors: Ayolagha GA , Ikiroma TG
Published: April 2014

The soils of the Southern Sombreiro-Warri Deltaic plain surrounded by mangrove forest in Kalabari Kingdom, Eastern Niger Delta were studied to assess their morphological characteristics and classification. Four profile pits were sunk, one in each of the following towns: Degema, Abonnema, Buguma and Tombia. The profiles were studied and described. The soils had sandy loam and sandy clay textures. Dominant structures were granular at the surface and subangular blocky at the sub-surface. The soil consistence was friable at the surface; sticky and plastic when wet at the subsurface. Bulk density was 1.3 g/cm3. Porosity of the soils were 49, 46, 45, and 60%for Degema, Abonnema, Buguma and Tombia respectively. The soils were acidic (pH 5.2, 5.4, 5.0 and 4.4) for the above mentioned soils respectively. Organic carbon were low and ranged from 0.76 in Abonnema to 1.23% in Degema. Total N was low (0.05, 0.04, 0.04, 0.04%) while available P was moderate (11.0, 13.6, 11.3 9.5Cmol/kg) respectively. Mean ECEC for the above soils were 11.92, 10.78, 9.37, 7.85 Cmol/kg respectively. Base saturation were low to moderate and ranged from 49.86% in Abonnema to 60.13% in Tombia. The soils were classified as coarse loamy, well drained, Iso-hyperthermic typic paleudults (USDA Soil Taxonomy) and Acrisols (FAO/UNESCO). They have the capability for sustainable crop production but would require inorganic and organic fertilization and liming.Key words: Soil Morphology, Classification, Iso-hyperthermic, Typic paleudults, Acrisols, Sombreiro-Warri.
Technical Efficiency of Sugar Cane (Saccharum officinarum) Production in Niger State, Nigeria.
Authors: Omotesho OA , Muhammad-Lawal A , Olatinwo KB , Adenuga AH , Bello AJ
Published: April 2014

Sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum) is grown by thousands of local farmers in Nigeria, yet the level of production has not kept pace with the level of consumption. This study was therefore carried out to examine the efficiency of sugar cane production in Niger State, Nigeria. The study sample comprised of 105 sugar cane producers selected across three Local Government Areas in Niger State. Major tools of analysis used for the study were the gross margin analysis and the stochastic frontiers model. Results of the study showed that a gross margin of N401606/ha was realized per farmer from sugar cane production. Also, the result of the stochastic frontier model shows that experience of the farmer and household size had significant effect on the efficiency of sugar cane production. A mean technical efficiency of 69.5% was obtained from the Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) of the Stochastic Production Frontier. The study recommends that the government should make inputs such as fertilizers and sugarcane cuttings available to farmers at a subsidized rate. Also, given the significant and negative relationship of herbicide usage and farmers’ output, it is important that the government organize trainings on  the appropriate use of agricultural inputs for farmers to ensure increased production and profitabilityKey words: Efficiency; Extension Services; Gross Margin; Niger State; Stochastic Production Frontier; Sugar cane
Forest Leafy Vegetables Marketing and Sustainable Rural Livelihood in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Oladele AT , Aiyeloja AA , Hycent PD
Published: April 2014

Leafy vegetables from forests are capable of generating income and employment for rural populations sustainably. Investigation of wild vegetable marketing was conducted in Rivers State, Nigeria with well-structured and pre-tested questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Net profit, Rate of return on investment (RORI) and sensitivity analysis. Weekly profits and RORI were; Port Harcourt city (N1134.48k, 34.1%), Oyigbo (N2152.2k, 30.9%) and Ahoada West (N608.98k, 21.89%). Gnetum africana has the highest daily profit of N159.30k. Sensitivity analysis of RORI showed profits were threatened at various degrees of increasing cost; Port Harcourt (35%), Oyigbo (35%) and Ahoada West (25%). Wild vegetables marketing showed potentials of increasing household income and sustain livelihoods. Research on domestication, improved marketing and provision of cooperatives loans are recommended for sustainable marketing.Keywords: Wild leafy vegetables, profitability, RORI, sustainable rural livelihood.Note: 1USD = 160 Nigerian Naira (N).
Determinants of Charcoal Production Efficiency in Ibarapa North Local Government of Oyo State, Nigeria.
Authors: Awodele DO , Famuyide O , Bolaji-Olatunji KA , Adeniran OAS
Published: April 2014

Competition for other sources of biomass energy is a major constraint in the efficiency of charcoal production, hence little or no demand for its uses. Data were collected using 65 structural questionnaires and was accompanied by oral interview. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentage and frequency and stochastic frontier production function. The study revealed that mean age of producers was 36 years; 96.9% were males and 3.1 were females. Majority of the producers (76.9%) had no formal training on how to produce charcoal, 30.8 has primary education, 38.5 has secondary education and 13.8% had post-secondary education. Most of the respondents (29.2%) had 6-10 years of experience. The frontier production function also revealed that variables identified accounted for 76 % (sigma square 0.76 of the variation observed in the producers margin per month. The mean efficiency of the producers was 85% which shows that they were highly efficient due to low cost on wood and water (P<=0.05). Thus, this study concludes that even though charcoal production will continue to have a negative impact on our environment due to deforestation. Government should think on how to make forest resources sustainable and to be a means of generating income, providing employment, reduce poverty and above all reduce global warming through a forestation.Key words: Biomass, Efficiency, Frontier, Production, Technical, Stochastic Renewable.
Net Farm Income Analysis of Maize Production in Gwagwalada Area Council of Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria.
Authors: Alabi OO , Coker AAA , Idegbesor ME
Published: April 2014

This study examined net farm income of maize production in Gwagwalada Area Council of Federal Capital Territory. The specific objectives are to: identify the socio-economic characteristics of maize farmers in the study area, evaluate the costs and returns of maize production in the study area, and evaluate factors affecting net farm income of maize production in the study area. A simple random sampling technique was used to obtain samples of 120 maize farmers. Primary data were used for this study. The data were collected using structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, farm budgeting technique and econometric multiple regression analysis. The result shows that 95 percent of sampled farmers are males. About 83 percent of sampled maize farmer’s age is less than 55 year, while, 96 percent are married. Econometric multiple regression analysis revealed that marital status; level of education and F-value were significant at 1% probability level. The Coefficient of Multiple Determinations implies that 22.3% of the independent variables included in the model jointly explain the variations in dependent variable. Estimated costs and returns analysis revealed a net farm income of N937, 656 per annum which shows that maize production in the study area is profitable. From the findings, it is suggested that agricultural extension agents should educate farmers on the need to be involved in agricultural activities especially on technologies that can improve maize production.Key words: Maize, Net Farm Income
Assessment of Agroforestry Practices by Farmers in Lagelu Local Government of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Banjo AA , Famuyide OO , Odefadehan OO , Ayomide AA , Owoeye AY , Oyetunji DO , Obafunso OE
Published: April 2014

The study examined the Agroforestry practices among farmers in Lagelu local government area of Oyo state, Nigeria. Three of the four Zones of Oyo state ADP (Agricultural Development Programme): Olorunda, Lalupon and Oyedeji were purposively sampled for the study because of the dense population of trees and the predominance of agroforestry in the Zones. Five farmer’ groups were randomly sampled in each Zone and thirteen farmers were randomly selected in each of the farmer’ groups, giving a total of one hundred and ninety five respondents. Structured questionnaire and oral interviews were used to collect information from the respondents. Frequency counts, percentages, pie chart and bar chart were used to analyze the data. Majority of the respondents (66.2%) were males while (33.8%) were females. Mixed Farming which is a common farming system in the South West of Nigeria is predominant in the study area. Theobroma cacao (cocoa) 15.7% and Chrysophylum albidium (African Star apple) 14.9% took the lead among the tree species used in Agroforestry. The major constraint encountered by the farmers in practising agroforestry is limited access to land and lack of financial assistance. The problem of insufficient land and the consequential land fragmentation is reflected in small farm sizes and many farm locations. The study recommends that sufficient land should be made available for farming; farmers should be financially assisted in their farming enterprises with low interest loans. Extension education in the area of agrofrorestry should also be intensified.Key words: Agroforestry, farming systems, tree crops, extension education
Parsimonious Crown Diameter Prediction Models for Tectona Grandis (Linn f Verbenaceae).
Authors: Popo-ola FS , Oyebade, BA
Published: April 2014

Tree crown is one complement of net primary production and its dimensions reflect general tree health. Crown diameter is often used as an important predictor variable for tree growth equation. The objective of the study was to develop parsimonious crown diameter prediction models for Tectona grandis (Linn F. Verbenaceae). Based on the data set from the temporary sample plots, several equations including linear, parable, cubic, power, growth and exponential functions were tested. These functions were evaluated in terms of coefficient of determination (R2) and standard error of the estimate (SEE). The significance of the estimated parameters was also verified. Plots of residuals against estimated crown diameter were observed. The power model had the highest R2 and the least SEE compared with the other models. It is therefore recommended as a parsimonious model for predicting crown diameter in the stand.Key Words: crown diameter, tree growth variables, modeling, Tectona grandis
Survey of Incentives Development in Agroforestry Establishments in Yewa North Local Government, Gun State
Authors: Odewo SA , Ajekigbe JM , Bolanle-Ojo OT , Adeyinka A , Adewuyi SO
Published: April 2014

A survey of incentive development in agroforestry establishments in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State was conducted. Villages around Forest Reserve Areas were randomly selected namely; Igbogila – Ayetoro, Imala – Ayetoro, Idafo, Ajoda – Ayetoro, Ibese – Igbogila and Oke Akanni. A well structured eighty (80) questionnaires was administered to a total of eighty (80) farmers in the area.The number of respondents in Igbogila – Ayetoro, Imala – Ayetoro, Idafo, Ajoda – Ayetoro, Ibese – Igbogila and Oke Akanni were 10, 14, 7, 17 and 13 respectively based on the population of each village. In all, 61 respondents were available to give information on kinds of incentive received, sources of incentives, mode of land acquisition,its benefit of incentives, problem encountered and many others. Descriptive analysis was used to analyse the data.The result shows that 70.4% of men were engaged in agroforestry practices with little or no education. Majority of the farmers in the area are between the ages of 30 – 41 years which is the productive age. They engage in the agroforestry system in order to cater for their families. The sources of incentives provided for the farmers were majorly from the local government (52.46%) and cooperatives (19.6) 50.82% of fertilizer and seedlings as well as 18.03% of financial assistance are given to farmers by the local government .These incentives give the farmers job opportunity (32.79%), income (39.34%), and food (26.23%) among others.It is therefore recommended that incentives in the area of inputs should be used to support the establishment of Agroforestry system so as to boost food production and wood supply across the country.Key words: Incentives, agroforestry, forest reserve, food production, wood supply
Comparative Effect of Sole Forage and Mixed Concentrate-Forage Feeding Regimens on the Growth Performance of Weaner Rabbits
Authors: Ekereuke EO , Effiong HE , Essien V
Published: April 2014

The response of weaner rabbits to two dietary treatments, sole forage and mixed concentrate-forage was evaluated in a completely randomized design (CRD) for a trial period of 10 weeks. The concentrate used was poultry growers mash while the forage was Tridax procumbens.Thirty two (32) New Zealand White (NZW)-Chinchilla crossbred weaner rabbits were used for the study, with 16 rabbits of mixed sexes randomly assigned to each treatment with four rabbits per replicate. Treatment 1 was first fed concentrates in the morning (800hrs – 1100hrs) daily and thereafter, the forage, while forage only was given every morning to animals solely on forage (Treatment 2). Feed intake was recorded daily, while body weight gain was taken at weekly intervals throughout the period of the trial. Results showed significant (P<0.05) differences in both mean daily weight gain with the values; 15.76 g (Treatment 1) and 12.46 g (Treatment 2) and the average final body weight of 1631.55 g (Treatment 1) and 1388.87 g (Treatment 2). There was no statistical (P>0.05) difference in average intake of forage between the two treatment groups. Economically, Treatment 1 proves to be better for the enhancement of body weight in growing rabbits than Treatment 2.Key words: Weaner rabbits,Poultry grower mesh, Tridax procumbens, Feed intake,Body weight gain
Growth and Reproductive Performance of Rabbits Fed Mistletoe Leaves (Phragmanthera nigritana)
Authors: Alemede IC , Fasanya OOA , Oke AO
Published: April 2014

Ten (10) rabbit does of mixed breeds aged between 5 – 6 months were used to study the effect of feeding mistletoe on feed intake, body weight and reproductive performance of rabbits. Following a pre - treatment period of two weeks during which the does were allowed to acclimatize to the environment, they were randomly assigned into two groups of five does each and designated T1 and T2.Does in T1 which served as the control group had access to tridax (Tridax procumbens), while does in T2 had mistletoe (Phragmanthera nigritana) which is a semi parasitic plant widely available in Minna. The host plant of the mistletoe used in this study is the African locust bean tree (Parkia biglobosa). Both groups were fed common concentrate diets formulated to contain 18 % CP. Water was supplied adlibitum during the entire period of the study that lasted for 20 weeks. A buck was introduced to each group for mating. Date mated was noted with a view to keep track of the gestation period of the does. Other parameters studied were litter size at birth, 3,5 and 8 weeks, litter body weight was studied at birth, 3,5 and 8 weeks, mortality and coefficient of milking were also investigated. The feed intake and body weight changes of does (pre- partum) were also studied. The result revealed better performance in the control group for feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and gestation length of dam. This trend was also repeated in the kittens for litter size. However, better survival rate and coefficient of milking were observed in the does that had mistletoe. Body weight gain did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) among the kittens obtained in both groups. It is concluded that mistletoe can be used to feed rabbit does without any deleterious effect on the performance of their rabbits.Key words: Reproductive performance, feed intake, body weight, tridax. Mistletoe, rabbits.
Forage Yield, Nutrient Composition and Nutritive Quality of Silage Produced from Maize-Lablab Mixture
Authors: Amole TA , Oduguwa BO , Okwelum N , Oyekale TO , Jolaosho AO , Olanite JA , Oyewole ST
Published: April 2014

Trials were conducted at the Teaching and Research farm, UNAAB in 2008 and 2009 to evaluate the effect of undersowing Lablab (Lablab purpureus cv. Rongai)in maize on grain yield, and to evaluate the nutritive quality of the silage in the dry season using calves.A 2ha piece of land was used for the experiment. In both years, maize was undersown with Lablab two weeks after planting (WAP)the maize. At harvest (10WAP), fresh weights and number of cobs, shelling percentage and weight of 1000grains of maize were determined. Silages of sole maize and maize-lablab in ratio 70:30 were made at harvest in plastic bags. After 4months of conservation, twelve cross-bred (White Fulani x N’dama) calves weighing 71-72kg were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments: grazing + sole maize silage, grazing + maize-lablab silage and Unsupplemented grazing as control for 84days. A seven day trial was also conducted to find out the digestibility and utilization of the maize – lablab and sole maize silage fed to cross-bred calves as supplement in the dry season.Undersowing increased grain yield in the subsequent year. Nitrogen retention was higher (P<0.05) in Maize-lablab and lower in natural pasture. Calves supplemented with maize-lablab silage (70:30) had the highest (P < 0.05) metabolic weight gain (50.03g/kgW0.75) while calves without supplementation had the lowest gain (42.76g/kgW0.75). It was concluded that maize- Lablab silage (70:30) could be used as supplements to enhance the growth and survival of calves during the dry season.Keywords: undersowing, maize-lablab, silage, calves, supplementation
Germination Response of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal L.) Seeds to Hot Water Pre-Treatment in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
Authors: Zakari Y , Bukar N , Danlingi GH , Omar AIO
Published: April 2014

An experiment was conducted during the rainy season of the year 2000 from July to October at the premises of the Faculty of Agriculture University of Maiduguri under tree shade, to study the effect of hot water pre-treatment duration. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design which consisted of six (6) different times of exposure in hours: 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 16, replicated three (3) times. The data collected include days to first emergence, days to 50 % emergence and final emergence. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance. Time of pre-treatment duration significantly (P≤0.05) affected final emergence. In all the data collected, treatment subjected to hot water treatment for 2 hours appeared to be promising. Based on the result obtained, it may be recommended that gum Arabic seeds be subjected to 2 hours hot water pre-treatment.Key words: Germination response, pre-sowing treatment, gum Arabic, orthodox seeds.
Economic analysis of the structure, Integration and Performance of Rice Markets in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State-Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed IA
Published: April 2014

The study examined the structure, integration and performance of rice markets in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State-Nigeria. A total of one hundred and twenty-five (125) rice sellers randomly sampled from a purposively selected five major markets were used for the study. The data for the study were collected with the aid of a questionnaire. Statistical tools such as simple descriptive statistics, Gini coefficient, Shepherd-Futrel functional models and bivariate correlation were used for data analysis. The study showed that female form the greater proportion of rice sellers in the area. The rice market was purely competitive with Gini coefficient of 0.43 and highly integrated as shown by positive price correlation coefficients for both foreign and local rice. The study showed a low marketing efficiency of 83% and 87% for local and foreign rice respectively, this is due mainly to high marketing costs associated with rice marketing. It is therefore, recommended that policies that improves rural infrastructure and marketing facilities be encouraged to reduce costs associated with the business. Also financial institutions should be encouraged to give loan to mitigate the problem of inadequate capital and a price stabilization policy to bring about perfect market performance.Key words: Rice; Market structure; Market integration and Performance.
Analysis of Technical Efficiency among Swamp Rice Farmers in Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: Usman A , Rahman SA
Published: April 2014

This study was conducted to evaluate the Technical efficiency among swamp rice farmers in Niger State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 159 swamp rice farmers. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, and the stochastic frontier production function. The results showed that less than 30% of farmers belong to cooperative societies. Majority (74%) were found to be within active age group of 31-50 years. The result of Cobb-Douglass stochastic frontier production function showed that the individual technical efficiency ranges between 34-98 percent with mean technical efficiency of 86%. The result revealed that there is high coefficient of variation (CV) of socio-economic factors, implying high variation in socio-economic factors. This could induce high variation in output among sampled farmers and could affect the efficiency of production. Analysis of inefficiency model showed that age, family size, extension contact and membership of cooperatives were the significant determinants of technical efficiency among the swamp rice farmers in the study area. The study therefore recommends that Swamp rice farmers in the study area should be enlightened by the extension agents on the use of recommended practices so as to improve farmers’ technical efficiency.Keywords: Coefficient of variation, Technical Efficiency, Swamp rice
Impact of Urbanization on Greenhouse Gases Emission and its Estimation on Lalubosa Forest Reserve Areas
Authors: Aina-Oduntan OA , Oluwasemire KO , Oyelowo OJ , Oloketuyi AJ
Published: April 2014

The anthropogenic factors which drive land use change are primarily population pressure on land (i.e. mean population per unit area) which has resulted in undue depletion and degradation of most forest land in Nigeria. Deforestation, reduction in biodiversity, depletion of stratospheric ozone, increases in greenhouse gases, and changes in sea level were among the effects causing climate change. The study investigated the impact of urbanization on Greenhouse gases emission and estimated greenhouse gases emitted in the last twenty years of deforestation using Alalubosa forest reserve in Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria. Greenhouse gases emission (carbon emission) for each prominent tree species at the study area were calculated using standard method to estimate carbon emission. The estimated carbon emission from the selected tree species: Tectona grandis, Cassia siamea, Pinus caribea, Gmelina arborea, Cedrela odorata, Triplochiton scleroxylon amounted to 2.09×10-4 MTCha-1 of carbon loss during this period. The emission of Greenhouse gas (GHG) like CO2 will induce climate change hence the need for the Government to enumerate carbon stock in forest trees in order to regulate Greenhouse gas (GHGs) emission and embrace reforestation programmes to restore lost economic trees.Keywords: Greenhouse gases, urbanization, prominent tree species, Alalubosa forest reserve