bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential serum interferon-β levels in autoimmune thyroid diseases
Authors: Cheng Chao-Wen , Tang Kam-Tsun , Fang Wen-Fang , Lee Ting-I , Lin Jiunn-Diann
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Interferon (IFN)-β is known as an environmental trigger for the occurrence of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). However, the association of another type-1 IFN, IFN-β, with AITD is unknown.

Material and methods

In the study, we explored the association of serum IFN-β levels with AITD in an ethnic Chinese (i.e., Taiwanese) population. We enrolled 160 patients with Graves’ disease (GD), 47 patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT), and 119 healthy controls. Serum IFN-β and B-cell activating factor (BAFF) levels were quantified in healthy controls at the baseline and in patients with AITD either prior to receiving medication or while under medication. Thyroid function and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor antibody (TSHRAb) levels were measured at the time of serum collection.

Results

Serum IFN-β levels were lower in the HT group than in the control group (p = 0.031). A significant inverse correlation was observed between IFN-β and TSHRAb levels in men with GD (r = –0.433, p = 0.044). Serum IFN-β levels were also negatively associated with BAFF levels in men with GD, HT, and AITD (r = –0.320, p = 0.032; r = –0.817, p = 0.047; and r = –0.354, p = 0.011, respectively), but not in women with GD, HT, or AITD.

Conclusions

Serum IFN-β levels were lower in HT patients. Correlations of serum IFN-β with TSHRAb and BAFF levels were found to be gender-specific. Further well-designed studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm our findings.
Predictive risk factors for worse outcomes in COVID-19 patients with different clinical features at baseline
Authors: Schiaroli Elisabetta , Gidari Anna , Brachelente Giovanni , Bastianelli Sabrina , Villa Alfredo , Ferri Carla , Francisci Daniela
Published: March 2021

Introduction

COVID-19 is characterized by a wide range of clinical expression and by possible progression to critical illness and death. Therefore it is essential to identify risk factors predicting progression towards serious and fatal diseases. The aim of our study was to identify laboratory predictive markers of clinical progression in patients with moderate/severe disease and in those with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Material and methods

Using electronic medical records for all demographic, clinical and laboratory data, a retrospective study on all consecutive patients with COVID-19 admitted to the Infectious Disease Clinic of Perugia was performed. The PaO2/FiO2 ratio (P/F) assessment cut‑off of 200 mm Hg was used at baseline to categorize the patients into two clinical groups. The progression towards invasive ventilation and/or death was used to identify critical outcome. Statistical analysis was performed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was adopted to identify risk factors of critical illness and mortality.

Results

In multivariate logistic regression analysis neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was the only significant predictive factor of progression to a critical outcome (p = 0.03) and of in-hospital mortality (p = 0.03). In ARDS patients no factors were associated with critical progression. Serum ferritin > 1006 ng/ml was the only predictive value of critical outcome in COVID-19 subjects with moderate/severe disease (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and serum ferritin are the only biomarkers that can help to stratify the risk of severity and mortality in patients with COVID-19.
Taking the Battle to Cyberspace : Delineating Borders and Mapping Identities in Western Sahara
Authors: von Reumont Frederik
Published: March 2021

Examining the case of Western Sahara, this chapter takes a closer look
at the connection between identity, territory, and borders, as well as
their construction in mapping processes. Analysing different web maps,
I will show their rootedness in the dominant political world views and
contrast them with the perspectives of the parties of conflict (Sahrawi
Arab Democratic Republic and Morocco). The results show significant
differences between proprietary and crowdsourced web maps as well as
the cartographic representations authored by the factions. The delineation
of borders is directly linked to territorial identity and nation-building.
This demonstrates the important role of web maps and other digitally
disseminated maps in the definition of identity and (self)-governance.
Mapping Genocide? Giving Visual Memory to Oral Culture
Authors: Maisel Sebastian
Published: March 2021

Yezidi religion and history had been largely transmitted orally until the
late 20th century due to the closeness, isolation, and marginalization
of the community in their various home countries. It was the advent of
digitization that sparked a radical switch and concurrent emergence of
a new class of protagonists who used social media as a tool to theorize
and generalize sacred knowledge. The new actors often do not belong to
the traditional class of clergy in charge of preserving and transmitting
this information. In this chapter, I argue that their use of social media
to spread deliberate knowledge has contributed to the development of
new forms of identity and loyalty among Yezidi groups in Syria and Iraq.
Reconfiguring the Kurdish Nation on YouTube : Spatial Imaginations, Revolutionary Lyrics, and Colonial Knowledge
Authors: Fischer-Tahir Andrea
Published: March 2021

Around the globe, colonized nations and indigenous peoples make use of
colonial photography of the nineteenth and early 20th century to provide
documentation of oppression, slavery, and extinction, as well as of resistance
and survival. In Iraqi Kurdish nationalist discourse, for example,
this mode of representation can be observed from the 1960s and the first
Kurdish modern guerrilla war. The digital age has multiplied the possibilities
of translocating knowledge and has promoted Kurdish national
aspirations for a nation state. Yet, this chapter will show that colonial
images of the Kurdish bodies and of Kurdistan’s geography still have use
value in identity discourses shaped by the aid of social media and mobile
media, which bears witness to the simultaneity of modes of representation.
Liberal Activists: Playing by the System and Making Gains
Authors: Abdullah Walid Jumblatt
Published: March 2021

This chapter analyzes the relationships Muslim ‘liberal’ activists have
with the state. Just like the ulama, the liberals are not a monolithic group,
with various approaches taken by different actors. However, by and large,
the liberals, again like the ulama, play by the rules of the game set by the
state. In fact, I argue that liberals have managed to maximize their space
the most as compared to conservatives, for reasons which are explained
in the chapter.
Conclusion
Authors: Abdullah Walid Jumblatt
Published: March 2021

The concluding chapter revisits the argument, and states its relevance
beyond the city-state of Singapore. I further discuss the implications
of my argument for our understanding of civil society in competitive
authoritarian regimes. Recommendations for future research are also
put forth.
TANGGAPAN TEOLOGIS TERHADAP PEMILIHAN KEPALA DAERAH DKI JAKARTA 2017-2022: SEBUAH REFLEKSI
Authors: Aritonang Arthur
Published: March 2021

Artikel ini merefeksikan kembali peristiwa ketika Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) maju kembali dalam kontestasi pada Pilkada DKI Jakarta beberapa tahun yang lalu. Persoalan Pilkada DKI Jakarta ini menjadi semakin sukar bermula ketika Pidato Ahok di Kepulauan Seribu pada 27 September 2016 diedit dan diunggah oleh Buni Yani ke media sosial. Pidato Ahok kemudian mengundang reaksi dari kalangan masyarakat Islam di Indonesia menuntut akan keadilan hukum di Indonesia. Ahok dianggap sebagai penista agama meskipun di kalangan Islam ada yang berpendapat berbeda bahwa ucapan Ahok tidak ada unsur menistakan agama Islam. Isu penistaan agama ini kemudian dipolitisasi oleh pihak lawan Ahok-Djarot baik melalui media sosial, ceramah yang dilakukan di masjid-masjid maupun dengan melakukan mobilisasi massa yang dengan tujuan yang sama yaitu membangun narasi politik untuk tidak memilih Ahok yang adalah orang ‘kafir’ (Kristen) dan juga keturunan etnis Tionghoa yang dianggap non-pribumi. Keberadaan Ahok ini merepresentasikan dari identitas pluralisme di Indonesia. Maka serangan politik identitas ini bertujuan untuk mengalahkan lawan politiknya tetapi secara langsung merupakan gerakan anti pluralisme. Melalui artikel ini penulis hendak menganalisis, memberikan tanggapan teologis dengan mengunakan pendekatan literatur kepustakaan  maupun hasil wawancara. Temuan dari penelitian ini ialah, agar di masa mendatang jalannya pesta demokrasi dapat lebih beradab dan menempatkan agama pada porsi yang tepat yaitu membina karakter dan membangun spritualitas anak bangsa bukan malah sebaliknya masuk ke dalam ruang politik praktis yang nantinya dapat merusak martabat dari agama itu sendiri sekaligus menumpulkan kepekaan hati nurani anak bangsa dalam memilih calon pemimpin politik yang ingin mengabadikan dirinya bagi kepentingan orang banyak.
L’ensenyament de la música tradicional i popular: una proposta multidisciplinària per al seu estudi
Authors: Pujol i Subirà Maria Antònia , Gustems Carnicer Josep , Calderón Garrido Caterina
Published: March 2021

El present estudi vol mostrar els diversos elements que intervenen en l’ensenyament d’un estil musical, la música tradicional i popular, en un territori concret, a Catalunya, des de l’òptica etnomusicològica, pedagògica i psicosocial. Actualment els llibres, articles i recerques que tracten sobre la música tradicional i popular catalana transmeten coneixement a partir d’una mirada bàsicament etnomusicològica. Aquesta mirada es vol ampliar cap a dos punts de vista més: el pedagògic i el psicosocial. Aquest article pretén mostrar un marc teòric bàsic per a analitzar el fenomen de la música tradicional i popular des d’una òptica multidisciplinària, necessària per a poder caracteritzar-ne els agents, contextos, usos i ensenyament. Per aquests motius es planteja descriure i analitzar les metodologies de l’ensenyament de la Música Tradicional i Popular a Catalunya i caracteritzar psicològicament i social els agents que hi intervenen (intèrprets, professorat i estudiants), com també proposar millores en l’ús i en l’ensenyament de la música tradicional en els contextos d’educació formal i no formal.
The digital competence of university students: a systematic literature review
Authors: Sánchez-Caballé Anna , Gisbert-Cervera Mercè , Esteve-Mon Francesc
Published: March 2021

Digital competence is a pressing need for students in the 21st century. The present study is a systematic review of the literature on university students’ digital abilities. The methodology consisted of selecting documents (n=126) from three different databases (Scopus, Web of Science and ERIC) via peer review. The documents were selected for inclusion following predefined criteria and then analysed using a qualitative analysis software (ATLAS.ti). Digital competence is made up of several elements (information skills, content creation, communication, ethical skills, problem solving, technical skills/use and strategic skills). We identified that the most frequently-used terms in the literature are digital literacy and digital competence. However, the terminology used varies among authors. We also found that most authors do not believe that young people actually have the digital abilities that they are assumed to have. In other words, students do not have a high level of digital competence. Educational institutions therefore need to help them to develop this competence, which is so necessary in the context of 21st century education.
Propiedades psicométricas de la Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMOs) en universitarios peruanos
Authors: Correa-Rojas Jossue , Grimaldo-Muchotrigo Mirian , Del Rosario-Gontaruk Samantha
Published: March 2021

El Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) hace referencia a la inquietud que experimentan las personas al no ser incluidas en las actividades sociales de sus pares; y la FoMOs es uno de los instrumentos más utilizados para estudiarlo. El objetivo fue determinar las propiedades psicométricas de la FoMOs en universitarios peruanos. Se aplicó la FoMOs en su versión adaptada por Gil, Chamarro y Oberst (2015) sobre 357 universitarios peruanos elegidos intencionalmente, en su mayoría mujeres (61.6%), de edades entre 16 y 27 años (M edad = 20.89; DE edad = 2.85). Los resultados indican que la FoMOs es una medida unidimensional coherente y parsimoniosa (RMSEA = .036; CFI = .988; TLI = .985), que presenta invariancia por sexo. Asimismo, sus puntuaciones convergen con otras variables. En cuanto a sus puntuaciones se aprecia que son fiables, consistentes (ω = .895) y estables (CCI = .821). La escala FoMO es una medida válida y fiable, que presenta invariancia en universitarios peruanos varones y mujeres.
A Longitudinal Study on Dividend Policy and Shareholders’ Wealth Creation
of FMCG Sector in India
Authors: G Bhatt Shruti , Bhatt Krupa B
Published: March 2021

The key aim of this research article is to analyze the performance of firms through dividend policy variables and shareholders’ wealth creation of the Fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector of India. The selected companies comprise of all listed Nifty FMCG Index firms in National stock exchange. The variables like Dividend payout ratio (DPR), dividend yield (DY) and dividend per share (DPS) for dividend policy analysis and Market value added (MVA) were examined over a period of 10 years (2010-2019). Authors used Statistical tools like Spearman’s Correlation, Kruskal Wallis (KW) H test and Post hoc test of Dunn-Bonferroni. Results found that there is a statistically significant and positive relationship between dependent and independent variables. KW test result shows that there is a significant difference between performance of sample firms. Post hoc test also validated the results of Kruskal Wallis test by considering pair wise comparison. Moreover, From the calculation of Market Value added (MVA), it was found that ITC added the highest wealth for its shareholders’ during the entire study period followed by Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) and Dabur India Limited. Godrej
Industries added positive but lowest market value during the study period. All the selected firms created wealth for their shareholders. The study can be useful to the prospective investors and investment or brokerage firms to make investment decisions for the long term. Moreover, research can be further carried out by considering other areas like operational efficiency, Profitability and so on.
EFFECT OF PROCESSING ON NUTRITIVE VALUE OF CASSAVA MEAL FOR BROILER CHICKS
Authors: Njike M. C. , Ndife L.  I.
Published: March 2021

Three graded levels (15, 30 and 45%) of each of cassava flours, peeled cassava meal (PCM), unpeel­ed cassava meal (UCM) and garri were fed to Ross — type broiler chicks from one to six weeks of age and thereafter treatment groups were fed a common finisher ration to 10 weeks of age. All substitutions were made at the expense of maize and each treat­ment diet contained 24% crude protein. At six weeks of age the result showed that cassava meals could substitute the maize component up to 45% without adverse effect on the final live-weight, feed con­sumption and feed efficiency. Also different pro­cessing methods applied to the cassava tubers did not affect the performance of birds. At 10 weeks of age only the birds on garri showed slight but signifi­cant differences relative to other dietary treatments.
EFFECTS OF CASTRATION ON GROWTH RATE, BODY AND VISCERAL ORGAN WEIGHTS OF PIGS.
Authors: Okere C. , Iloje M. U.
Published: March 2021

Effects of castration on growth rate, body and visceral organ weights of pigs were investi­gated using data from intact males, intact females of Large White pigs full or half cast­rated at 2, 4, or 6 weeks of age. Body weights and feed intake were recorded to the nearest 0.1kg at weekly intervals from birth, while weights of abdominal and thoracic organs were taken at slaughter. Results show that age at castration signi­ficantly affected weaning weights and weights at 2 months of age (P < 0.05), but did not affect the weights of visceral organs and the average daily weight gain (P> 0.05). Castration significantly affected weaning weights (P <0.05) average daily gain (P <0.01), body weights at 4 months (P <0.05), but not the weights of the visceral organs (P> 0.05) Intact females and, intact males significant­ly differed in body weights at 4 months and in average daily weight gain (P 0.05). Com­parisons between full castrates and intact males showed significant differences in all the measured parameters except the weights of visceral organs. Full castrates and intact females did not differ, significantly (P > 0.05) in any of the traits measured.
STUDIES ON EXPERIMENTAL MODELS USED FOR NUTRITIONAL AND BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH: A TECHNIQUE OF PERMANENT INSTALLATION OF RUMEN CANNULAE IN THE NIGERIAN CATTLE
Authors: Oladosu L. A.
Published: March 2021

The procedure found suitable for cannulating the rumen of some indigenous breeds of cattle in Nigeria for nutritional analysis and bioassays has been described. The viability of the technique relative to others suggested for exotic ruminants, is reviewed. The anatomical location for a successful implantation in order to reduce complications to the barest minimum has been suggested. The maintenance of the implanted cannula for the purpose of keeping the modified experimental model in perfect health is discussed.
A COMPARISON OF THE PERFORMANCE OF CAGED LAYERS FED SORGIIUM GRAIN OR PEARL MILLET*
Authors: ODIBA J. Y. , SANFORD P. E.
Published: March 2021

Two 280-day trials, each involving 468, 22-week-old caged commercial egg-strain pullets were conducted to Compare millet and sorghum grain as the main source of energy in laying diets. Diets containing 59.2 and 0, 41.0 and 24.0, 31.2 and 36.3 and 0 and 72.5% of sorghum grain and pearl millet, respectively, were studied in both trials The diets containing millet supported egg production, egg weight, feed conversion and egg shell thickness equivalent to those of the all-sorghum diet. Except in Trial 1, feed consumption of the pullets fed the millet-containing   diets was not significantly lower than that of the pullets fed the all-sorghum diet. Haugh unit values tended to decrease as the level of millet was decreased. Feeding millet at a level as high as 72.5% Of the diet may have adverse effects on egg specific gravity and haugh units
THE EFFECT OF HIGH DIETARY LEVELS OF PALM OIL AND SALT ON THE PERFORMANCE AND MEAT QUALITY OF CHICKENS
Authors: OLUYEMI J. A. , OLUBANJO A. O. , ABDALLAH O. B. , ARAFA A. S.
Published: March 2021

Day-old male broiler chicks totaling 480 were randomized in to eight diets with 24% crude protein and either 0.3, 5.0. 10.0, or 15.0% NaCl and 0, 5.0, 10.0 or 15.0% palm oil. The high levels of dietary oil improved the growth rate of the birds with a preferential development of the thigh and breast which probably accounted for an apparent better conformation and finish of the birds. levels of salt of 5% and above exerted opposite effects to the high dietary fat and appeared toxic. Flavor and the overall acceptability of meat of the chickens benefited from high levels of palm oil but not of salt in the diet. A high-water intake induced by high levels of salt was responsible for high moisture content of the litter.
THE EFFECTS OF INCLUSION OF GRADED LEVELS OF BREWERS DRIED GRAINS (BDG) IN THE DIETS OF EARLY-WEANED PIGS ON THEIR PERFORMANCE UP TO 10 WEEKS OF AGE
Authors: MADUBUIKE F. N.
Published: March 2021

Forty-eight (48) Yorkshire female and castrated male pigs early weaned at 21 days, with average initial body weight of 8.14 kg were used to assess the effects of including graded levels of Brewers dried grains (BDG) in their diets on their performance until 10 weeks of age. Brewers dried grains were added to the 18 per cent crude protein corn-soy bean meal diets at the rate of O, 5, 10 or 15% level, each BDG level constituting a treatment Inclusion of BDG up to 15% had no adverse effect on the total gains and average daily weight gains of the test pigs. However, although the average daily feed intake and feed: gam ratio did not differ between the control pigs and those pigs with 5 and 10% BDG in their diets (between which there was no difference), the 15% BDG increased both average daily feed intake and feed: gain ratio. Not only did the pigs on 15% BDG consume more feed per unit of gain, they also scoured more frequently than the others, showing a lower degree of tolerance for increased fiber level (unlike the older pigs reported in the literature). The results of this study thus confirm the feasibility of using BDG in the diet of early weaned pigs, although the degree of tolerance appears to be age or body weight dependent.
INFLUENCE OF INTERMITTENT WATERING ON SOME BLOOD COMPONENTS OF GRAZING YANKASA SHEEP
Authors: AGANGA A. A. , UMUNNA N. N. , OYEDIPE E. O. , OKOH P. N.
Published: March 2021

Blood picture, some serum biochemical and electrolyte measurements were determined in grazing Yankasa sheep that were subjected to various lengths of water deprivation. The study was carried out both in the dry and wet seasons to examine seasonal variations. Blood constituents namely packed cell volume (PCV), total proteins, and red blood count (RBC), hemoglobin (HB), were significantly (P < 0.05) higher during wet season than dry' season. Watering intervals significantly affected (P < 0.05) the RBC and Hb components of blood. The blood components values were elevated with increases in watering intervals. Seasonal variations were observed in serum electrolyte values measured and water deprivation caused hemoconcentration especially in the dry season.
PERFORMANCE OF BROILERS GIVEN DIFFERENT DIETARY LEVELS OF ACACIA SIEBERIANA DC. VAR. SIEBERIANA SEEDS
Authors: Mustapha G. G. , Oguntona T.
Published: March 2021

The study was aimed at evaluating the seeds of a leguminous plant, Acacia sieberiana DC as an alternative source of dietary plant protein for broilers. Five experimental diets containing 0 (control), 5, 10, 15 and 20% Acacia sieberiana seeds (ASS) were formulated and fed to 5 groups of birds during starter (0 - 4 weeks), grower (5 - 8 weeks) and finisher (9-12 weeks) periods respectively. There were 3 replicates per treatment, with 10 birds per replicate. At the end of the experiment, average weekly liveweight gains of 128.90 ±24.17, 122.68±25.09, 112.79 ± 22.83, 96.40 ± 21.53 and 99.56 + 21.53g were obtained for the birds on 0, 5, 10 and 20% ASS inclusion respectively. The average weekly feed consumption values were 413.47 ± 63.63, 408.59 ± 63.82, 304.60 ± 61.70, 347.96 ± 58.0 and 352.83 ± 59.76g for the birds on 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% ASS respectively. The feed efficiencies were 0.289 ± 0.03, 0.272± 0.03, 0.264 + 0.03, 0.248 ± 0.03 and 0.253 ± 0.03 for the birds on 0. 5. 10. 15 and 20% ASS respectively. The data revealed that in general, the birds on 0, 5 and 10% ASS inclusion performed better (PÇ<.05) than birds on 15 or 20% ASS. Results of carcass evaluation show that the gizzard, lungs and heads of the control birds had significantly (PÇ<.05) higher weights than those of birds on 15 and 20% ASS. From these results it can be concluded that up to 10% ASS could be incorporated into poultry diet without deleterious effect on broilers.
Substitution Value Of Maize Offal For Maize In Diets Of Laying Hens
Authors: Uko O. J. , Awoyesuku P. , Babatunde G. M.
Published: March 2021

Two hundred and sixteen Golden Hubbard strain of laying eggs, aged 32 weeks, were used to investigate the optimal level of maize offal (MO) that could replace maize with no detrimental effects on the performance of the hens. Graded levels of MO(0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50%) replaced equal levels of maize in six dietary treatments (1 to 6 respectively). There were no significant (P>0.05) differences between diets in egg production and weight weight gain of the hens. Egg weight was highly influenced (P<0.01) by the dietary treatments, with 30% MO producing the heaviest eggs. Increasing dietary levels of MO significantly (P<0.01) significantly increased feed consumption. Feed conversion efficiency differed (P>0.05) only at 50% levels of dietary MO. Of the egg quality parameters investigated, albumen, yolk and shell percentages were not affected (P>0.05) by the MO, while the Haugh Units were (P<0.05).
GENETIC AND PHENOTYPIC ASSOCIATIONS OF JUVENILE BODY WEIGHTS AND EGG PRODUCTION TRAITS IN TWO STRAINS OF RHODE ISLAND CHICKENS
Authors: ONI O. O. , ABUBAKAR B. Y. , OGUNDIPE S. O.
Published: March 2021

Data on body weight at 16 (WT16); 20 (WT20) weeks of age and at sexual maturity (WTSM) weight of first egg (WT1st), age at sexual maturity (ASM) and 120-d egg production (EN)  were used to estimate genetic parameters in 636 hens of two strains of Rhode Island chikens. There were significant (P.01) differences between  the two strains for all traits except for WTSM.The heritability estimates obtained ranged from 0.05 to 0.41 and 0.04 to 0.30 for strains 1 and 2 respectively. The genetic correlations obtained for the various traits were medium to high for the two strains. The phenotypic correlations were generally low but followed the same trend. The results indicate that selected stocks of the two strains would show improvements in egg production and age   at sexual maturity if juvenile body weight (WT20) is employed as a selection criterion at housing for laying hens.
The Effect of Experimental Infection of Trypanosoma Vivax on the Reproductive Organs of Sheep and Goats – A Preliminary Report
Authors: Isoun T. T. , Anosa V. O.
Published: March 2021

THIRTEEN adult animals (7 sheep and 6 goats) were utilized in experiments to study the effect of experimental infection of T. vivax on reproductive organs. Sheep infected with T. vivax had abnormalities of sperm morphology (24 to 28 %). Degeneration and calcification and, occasionally, infarction were observed in testes of sheep and goats infected with T. vivax. T. vivax was present in the amniotic fluid of infected pregnant sheep. The effects of these changes on the reproductive capacity of sheep and goats in endemic areas of trypanosomiasis are discussed.
The Effect Of Season On The Yield And Nutritive Value Of Gliricidia Sepium And Leucaena Leucocephala
Authors: Odeyinka S. M. , Ademosun A. A.
Published: March 2021

Four plots of Gliricidia and two plots of Leucuena were harvested at three monthly intervals to monitor dry matter yield, chemical composition and in vitro organic matter digestibility. The plants had been established (Gliricidia from stakes, Leucaena from seeds) and were spaced 1m apart on rows and 1m between rows. Each plot size was 6m x 6m. 
There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the dry matter yield of the two browse species. Season did not have significant (P>0.05) effect on the dry matter yield of Leucaena but had on that of Gliricidia (P<0.01). The early dry harvest produced the lowest yield for both Gliricidia and Leucaena and these were significantly lower than the yield from other harvests. 
Season had significant effect (P<0.01) on the chemical composition of Leucaena except on the percent Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF) and lignin but season had no effect on the organic matter digestibilities of the two browse species: Leucaena was higher in nutritive value than Gliricidia.
SOME PRODUCTION PARAMETERS OF LOHMANN BROWN BROILER PARENT LINES IN THE HUMID TROPICS
Authors: Asuquo B. O.
Published: March 2021

Two hundred day-old chicks of Lohmann Brown Broiler male (MPL) and female (FPL) parent lines were evaluated for production efficiency under the humid tropical environment. Chicks were reared on deep litter and fed chick breeder mash (0-8 weeks), grower mash (9-16 weeks), and broiler breeder mash (17-49 weeks). Water was supplied ad libitum. At point of lay, birds were floor-mated according to line in a ratio of 1 cock; 6 hens. Average body weights at 20 weeks were 2623.99 and 2189.35g for MPL and FPL, respectively. Female parent line chicken came into lay 4 days earlier than their MPL counterparts (142 vs 146 days). No statistical difference was observed in the total feed consumption per bird, with the values 8.89kg (MPL) and 8.62kg (FPL). There were no significant (P>0.05) differences between the two lines in percent hien-day egg production (PHD), fertility and hatchability of fertile eggs, values of which were respectively, 49, 12, 79.32 and 81.01 for the male line and 62.11, 80.89 and 82.28 for the female line during the last 26-49 weeks of age.
QUANTIFYING SIZE AND SHAPE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MUTURU AND N'DAMA BREEDS OF CATTLE
Authors: Ibe S. N. , Ezekwe A. G.
Published: March 2021

Body weight and eight linear body traits, namely heart girth, body and diagonal lengths, height at withers and at hip, width of loin and at pelvic bone, and depth at rear flank, were measured forthniylıtly on 32 Muturu bulls, 16 of which were born in the dry season (Muturu -D) and the remaining 16 in the rainy season (Muturu-R), and on 11 N'dama bulls. Correlations between all pairs of traits in all groups were high, positive and significant (r > 0.093). The first two principal components derived from the correlation matrix of the linear measurements, PCI and PC2 accounted for at least 98% of total variance in all cases and were regarded as, size' and 'shape' vectors, respectively. Whereas PC1 gave largest weight to heart girth, PC2 gave largest weight to two or more different other linear measurements in the three groups. N'dama had the best conformation, followed by Muturu -D and then Muturu - R. PC-based prediction models were more parsimonius than linear measure-based models and are considered preferable for selecting animals for "optimal" balance. Also, in addition to discriminating between the two different breeds, PC- based discriminant functions were able to discriminate among individuals within the same breed on the basis of putritional differences. These functions are therefore recommended for classifying animals according to different macro and micro criteria.
PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS ON THE SEMINAL CHARACTERISTICS OF RABBITS RAISED IN TWO LOCATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA.
Authors: Herbert U. , Acha C. O.
Published: March 2021

A total of sixteen rabbits sourced from two locations in Southeastern Nigeria were used for this study. Semen was collected from all the rabbits twice weekly for eight weeks using an artificial vagina while observation on the effect of time of collection on semen quality were also made. The results obtained indicated that time of collection had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on all the seminal characteristics measured. However, source of the animals showed significant effect (P < 0.05) on semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm per ejaculate and proportion of abnormal sperm. Average semen volume, sperm concentration and total sperm per ejaculate were: 0.69±0.007 ml, 104.0±1.44 x 106/m1 and 71.40±0.90x106 respectively for the rabbits sourced from Port Harcourt. The corresponding values for rabbits sourced from Owerri were: 0.66±0.008m1, 96.02 ±1.63x106iml and 63.49±1.50 x 106 respectively. Abnormal sperm proportions were 11.05±0.22% and 1216 ± 032% for the rabbits sourced from Port Harcourt and Owerri respectively. There were no significant (P> 0.05) differences observed between locations in live sperm concentration and sperm motility. Live sperm concentration and sperm motility were 87.75±1.09% and 71.62±0.74% for the Port Harcourt group, while the values obtained for the Owerri group were 88.06±034% and 71.19±0.89% respectively.
PLANT PHYTATES AND OXALATES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON NUTRIENT UTILIZATION BY GOATS
Authors: ONWUKA C. F. I.
Published: March 2021

The leaves of 37 browse species usually fed to ruminants in Nigeria were analysed for their phytic acid, pleytin - P and oxalic. The study indicated average phytic acid of phytic acid, i.e the mixed Ca and Mg salts contents ranged from 65.05 to 350.64 mg/g-1 in 18.32 - 100 mg g- and 0.10 -3.5 mg 100 mg. The Herbs leaves had the highest concentration Phytic acid while shrubs had the highest oxalate content. The in vivo trial with dwarf goats showed that, when maintained on browse and  cassava peels, goats consumed 3.37 ±0.30 to 24.00 ±1.06 mg kg 1734 of phytic acid and 0.06 20.02 to 0.51 10.02 g d'W kg * 0.734 of  oxalic acid. The CP, Ca and P intakes and excretion were also monitored. These two toxicants were correlated with protein; DM intake, DM digestibility and body weight Browse phytates and oxalates did not quite impair the performance of ruminant animals (Oke, 1996). Calcium animals significantly. Following digestion, nutrients sent into the soil Include Ca, P, N, C, being the main site of Zn etc.
ASSESSMENT OF SOME QUALITIES OF COMMERCIAL LIVESTOCK FEEDS
Authors: Ogunwolere Y. O. , Onwuka C. F. I.
Published: March 2021

The nutrient qualities of different classes of commercial livestock feed were monitored over a period of 20 weeks for changes in their chemical composition as well as differences between actual chemical contents and tagged specifications. Feed samples were collected from farms and feed depois around Abekuta in Ogun State. Results obtained reveled wide ranges of values (P < 0.05) within feeds of the same class, depending on the miller(s). Creep feed pellet had CP values (21.98±0.21%) which were 0.01% less than the recommended nutrient requirement for creep pigs. There was low CP in some layers diet (13%) (P < 0.05). All feeds types analysed had consistently and significantly higher crude fibre values than recommended for the relevant animals while energy and CP were noticeably low. The study further showed that finished feeds and feed ingredients were adulterated with saw dust, sand urea, rice bran, etc. The needs for feed quality standardization and monitoring as well as the usage of agro-industrial by products in appropriate proportions were examined and recommendations made.
Feedlot Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Steers Fed High-Energy Rations
Authors: Olayiwole M. B. , Ahmed M. B. , Bell T. D.
Published: March 2021

THREE feeding trials, 24 [pure Zebu and Zebu x Friesian crossbred] steers per each, were conducted to compare 4 rations [treatments) at three different periods of the year. 
Four equal and randomly distributed groups of steers were put on 4 different but iso-calorie rations. Levels of crude protein varied from 21.4 to 18.9% as shown in table 1. The steers were individually fed for 56 days to effect 1.12 kg. gain per head daily. 
Digestibility levels of the four rations were determined [Table 2]. At slaughter, carcass data were obtained and analysed [Table 4]. Animal performance, and economics of the feeding operation data are presented in Table 3. 
Results of these studies showed that the 30-20% cotton seed rations gave significantly [P <0.001] higher total liveweight gains, slightly heavier carcasses and better grades than the other two rations. 
Considering results of all the parameters measured and Federal Government of Nigeria's concerted efforts to boost grains and meat production on large scales, ration 3 should be recommended. Because, with abundant supplies of grains and regular supplies of animals, faster throughput and increased gross return per feedlot per annum are feasible.
The Nature, Economics and Public Health Aspects of Bovine Brucellosis in Nigeria
Authors: Esuruoso G. O.
Published: March 2021

BOVINE Brucellosis is a disease of cattle which causes abortions, retained placenta, inferillity and cconomic losses in calf pro duction in the affected herds. This disease has been diagnosed in various parts of the country (Efurioso, 1974). Although some herds were found to be free, others were moderately infected, while others still were heavily infected. Unfortunately, some of the heavily infected cattle herds were at the breeding centres from where animal were usually sold out to beginners about to start their own foundation herds. Therefore a trail of brucellosis could be followed to many of these herds.

From currently available information (Esuruoso & Hill, 1971; Esuruoso & Van Blake, 1972; Esuruoso 1974a & 1974b) it is estimated that direct losses due to bovine brucellosis alone in Oyo State is around ₦200,000 per 10,000 adult female cattle per annum. Losses in other parts of the country have been shown to be heavy in some places and low in others (Banerjee and Bhatty, 1970; Esurdoso, 1974b; Esaruoso, 1975; Nuru and Dennis, 1975) but can only be properly estimated when more work has been done to find out the status of most of the herds in relation to the incidence; only a very small percentage of herds in the northern state (Esurtoso, 1974b; Nuru and Dennis, 1975) have been investigated.
Cassava Diets and Performance of Rats over Two Reproductive Cycles
Authors: Tewe O. O. , Job T. A. , Loosli J. K. , Oyenuga V. A.
Published: March 2021

FRESH and dried bitter (high HCN) cassava, dried sweet (low HCN) cassava and a commercial pellet diet were fed to rats during two life-cycles. First litter birth weights of rats on fresh Cassava diets were significantly (P<0.05) lower than on other diets. Performance of rats on sun dried cassava diets were probably more affected by the fungal growth on the sundried chips, rather than influence of its hydrocyanic acid content. Histopathological examination of thyroid tissue revealed that thyroidal epithelial heights were significantly (P<0,05) lower in the second litter offspring of the fresh cassava group than in others. Alopecia was also observed in these rats.
SCROTAL AND TESTICULAR DIMENSIONS IN SOME WEST AFRICAN BULLS
Authors: Osinowo O. , Dennis S. M. , Osori D. I. K. , Molokwu E. C. I.
Published: March 2021

A series of studies were  conducted to estimate testicular size from scrotal measurement and determine the relationship between testicular size, age and liveweight in some West African bulls. Repeatability estimate for scrotal circumference measurements between technicians was 0.96. scrotal circumference was highly correlated to paired testes weight (r = 0.88) and volume (r = 0.87). Testes weight and volume were reclosely related (r = 0.997) but their ration (g/cc)varied in 30 bulls from 0.962 to 1.119, with a mean and standard deviation of 1.027 + 0.029. The regression equation for estimating tests weight (Y) from scrotal circumference (X) was Y = 506.17 + 27.70X. Significant correlations existed between scrotal circumference and age (r from 0.59 to 0.79) or liveweight (r from 0.62 to 0.83) in N Dama, Bunaji and Sokoto-Gudali bulls. However, examination of the partial correlations showed that most of the age effects were attributable to changes in liveweight. Limited evidence indicate that young Bunaji bulls have larger testis than the other two breeds although they may be overtaken by Sokoto-Gudali bulls after 5 years of age
LEAST COST DIETS FOR PRODUCTION. III. REGRESSION ANALYSIS AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF THE WEANER DIETS
Authors: Ogunfowora O. , Aneke R. E. , Fetuga B. L.
Published: March 2021

This paper represents the third in the series of designed to explore the scope and contributions of computerized diets to the overall improvements in the technical and economic efficiency in the pig industry. The present paper attempts to establish the functional relationships between the principal nutrient components (Protein and energy) of weaners’ diets on weight gain, feed utilization and carcass quality. The established functional relationship was used as a basis for incorporating animal performance into feed formulation activities while using linear programming techniques to derive expansion path diets. Cumulative feed intake was positively related to liveweight gain in weaner pigs. While protein and energy intakes are significant explanatory variable, they explained only 37 and 36 percent, respectively, of the total variations in liveweight gain. No significant relationship was found between carcass quality and protein and energy intake levels for pigs of the weight range studied. While it was clearly demonstrated that the formulation of expansion path diets using liner programming techniques could be used for selecting cost diets to achieve different weekly liveweight gains, its practical application must await result of animal feeding trials designed to test the performance of the derived expansion path diets
COMPARATIVE PERFORMANCE OF THE INDIGENOUS AND EXOTIC SOWS IN NIGERIA
Authors: Adebambo O. A. , Dettmers A. E.
Published: March 2021

THE indigenous sow of Nigeria which is about half the size of the exotic large white, Landrace or crossbred pigs at maturity (60 vs 128-141kg) has an average milk yield of 75kg as compared to 130 148kg of the exotic breeds during an eight week lactation. Peak production was reached between the third and fifth weeks of lactation by the impor ted, while the native sow showed quite a slight peak but with greater persistency. For all geno types compared, milk yield was lower in the dry season (P< 0.05) than in the wet season (123 vs 134kg) and higher for sows (P < 0.05) than for gilts (135 vs 121kg). With an average litter size of 5-8 pigs, available milk per piglet was between 16kg in the Indigenous SOW and 28kg in the Landrace soWS (P < 0.05) and a significant difference (P < 0.05) in effi ciency of milk utilization by the piglets in the range of Crossbred, followed by the purebreds, the indigenous being the least efficient in relation to unit metabolic size Milk production did not differ among the genotypes. The high positive correlations (P < 0.05) between milk yield and body weight at farrow and the unit metablie size as well as between milk intake and litter size might serve as a useful tool in selection for the Nigerian Indigenous pigs as the higher body weight tend to be correlated to a higher milk yield and a correspondingly large litter size.
ENERGY REQUIREMENTS OF INDIGENOUS AND EXOTIC LACTATING COWS IN A HUMID, TROPICAL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Adebowale E.A.
Published: March 2021

Owing to paucity of information on the energy requirements of lactating cows in a humid tropical environment, a study using twelve lactating cows and Six steers was conducted at Ibadan, Nigeria. Animals weighing between 355 and 445kg were used in metabolism studies with four cows and two steers from each of the White Fulani (WF), German Brown (GB) and Friesian (F) breeds. Metabolizable energy (ME) required for maintenance ranged from 0.37 for the Friesiun, 0.41 for the German Brown to 0.44 MJ/day/W0.734kg for the White Fulani animals. Since the regressions were parallel and coincident, pooled figures of 0.41MJ ME/day/W0.734kg or 0.31MJ net energy ME/day/wk0.734g for all breeds in a tropical environment could be used. Efficiency of utilization of metabolizable energy for milk synthesis was about 31%. while a large variation was obtained for efficiency of utilization of the diets fed forage (18%), low concentrate (32%, and high concentrate (44%). Lactating cows required lower maintenance but higher productive metabolizable energy than those in the temperate regions.
LIVESTOCK RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA A REVIEW
Authors: Lamorde A. G. , Nawathe D. R. , Njike M. C.
Published: March 2021

Research has in the past few decades achieved praise, but has not made the desired impact on livestock production on account of varieties of pro• biers and of partial neglect of livestock subsector during the successive National Development Plans of the country The paper takes an account of these problems, progress made so far and suggests ways and means of improving livestock production through innovative research and development.
PEMERIKSAAN FESES UNTUK IDENTIFIKASI CACING DAN AMOEBA PADA SANTRI DI PONDOK PESANTREN
Authors: Handayani Luh Titi
Published: March 2021

Islamic boarding school has excesive activity within 24 hours and become a house for living for the students. Crowded environment at islamic boarding school emerging a possibility of communicable disease such as scabies and gastrointestinal disorder. The purpose of this study is to identify the student’s health at islamic boarding school through the infection of amoeba and helminths in their feses. It’s a non experimental reasearch. There were 30 respondents taking part of this research and the sample are taken from instant stool sample. The results show that 46,7% respondents have positive 2 results. It means that there were infection and parasite living in their gastrointestinal tract. The role of clean and healhty behavioral pattern (PHBS) are very important in islamic boarding school environment and it implementation need an integrated role of every part of islamic boarding school such as student, executive organizer and health care worker. The role of kyai and ustadz (teacher) as the role model for the students are needed in order to give the example of implementation of clean and healhty behavioral pattern form health and Islamic perspective
PEMANFAATAN EKSTRAK BUNGA SEPATU (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.) SEBAGAI ALTERNATIF PEWARNA ALAMI SEDIAAN SITOLOGI PENGGANTI EOSIN PADA PENGECATAN DIFF QUIK
Authors: Mutoharoh Lukmatul , Santoso Setyo Dwi , Mandasari Andita Ayu
Published: March 2021

Bunga sepatu (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.) merupakan tanaman semak kelompok Malvaceae yang berasal dari Asia Timur dan banyak dimanfaatkan sebagai pagar hidup maupun tanaman hias didaerah subtropis dan tropis. Bunga sepatu dulu banyak digunakankan sebagai pewarna alami untuk makanan. Bunga sepatu mengandung pigmen warna antosianin. Pemanfaatan antosianin telah banyak dilakukankan salah satunya pewarna produk makanan maupun minuman. Pewarna alami antosianin semakin banyak diminati karena dapat mengurangi penggunaan pewarna sintetik yang memiliki sifat toksik serta tidak ramah lingkungan. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pemanfaatan ekstrak bunga sepatu (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.) sebagai pewarna alami pengganti eosin pada pengecatan diff quik. Sampel yang digunaakan untuk membuat sediaan sitologi berasal dari kerokan mukosa bukal. Bagian kelopak bunga sepatu yang diambil dan dikeringakan, kemudian diekstrak dengan pelarut etanol 96%. Dari hasil penelitian diketahui bahwa sediaan yang dapat terwarnai dengan baik pada konsentrasi ekstrak 0,5 gr/ml yang ditambahkan HCl 1% dengan waktu perendaman 30 menit. Serta pada konsntrasi ektrak 0,7 gr/ml dengan waktu perendaman 15 menit sel dapat terwarnai dengan cukup baik.
Gobierno abierto: análisis de websites de datos abiertos gubernamentales en Argentina, Brasil y Paraguay
Authors: Nicolás Maria Alejandra , Mamani Catachura Claudia
Published: March 2021

La problemática indaga sobre la capacidad que los gobiernos poseen para poner en práctica “Políticas y Directrices de Datos Abiertos” en la administración pública federal. El objetivo general es analizar los websites de datos abiertos de los gobiernos federales de Argentina, Brasil y Paraguay. Los específicos: i) sistematizar las directrices, principios y planes nacionales de datos abiertos de los países citados; ii) realizar un análisis de contenido de los websites nacionales de datos abiertos a partir de algunas dimensiones: formato de datos abiertos, navegabilidad, información, participación, entre otras; iii) analizar una muestra de datasets (banco de datos) con el objetivo de verificar la usabilidad de los mismos. Los resultados apuntan que Brasil viabiliza un portal de datos abiertos y bancos de datos en consonancia con la legislación federal, además los datos arrojaron que los datasets de este país se encuentran en mejores condiciones de usabilidad y proceso para los usuarios.