bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide identification of breed-informative single-nucleotide polymorphisms in three South African indigenous cattle breeds
Authors: Zwane A.A. , Maiwashe A. , Makgahlela M.L. , Choudhury A. , Taylor J.F. , Van Marle-Köster E.
Published: April 2021

Access to genotyping assays enables the identification of informative markers that discriminate between cattle breeds. Identification of these markers can assist in breed assignment, improvement and conservation. The objective of this study was to identify breed informative markers to discriminate between three South African indigenous cattle breeds. Data from BovineSNP50 and GeneSeek Genomic Profiler (GGP-80K) assays were generated for Afrikaner, Drakensberger and Nguni, and were analysed for their genetic differentiation. Hereford and Angus were included as outgroups. Breeds were differentiated using principal component analysis (PCA). Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the breeds were determined when minor allele frequency (MAF) was ≥ 0.05. Breed-specific SNPs were identified using Reynolds Fst and extended Lewontin and Krakauer's (FLK) statistics. These SNPs were validated using three African breeds, namely N’Dama, Kuri and Zebu from Madagascar. PCA discriminated among the breeds. A larger number of polymorphic SNPs was detected in Drakensberger (73%) than in Afrikaner (56%) and Nguni (65%). No substantial numbers of informative SNPs (Fst ≥ 0.6) were identified among indigenous breeds. Eleven SNPs were validated as discriminating the indigenous breeds from other African breeds. This is because the SNPs on BovineSNP50 and GGP-80K assays were ascertained as being common in European taurine breeds. Lower MAF and SNP informativeness observed in this study limits the application of these assays in breed assignment, and could have other implications for genome-wide studies in South African indigenous breeds. Sequencing should therefore be considered to discover new SNPs that are common among indigenous South African breeds and also SNPs that discriminate among these indigenous breeds.
Effects of protein sources on performance, carcass composition, blood parameters and meat quality in Charolais heifers
Authors: Ragni M. , Colonna M.A. , Lestingi A. , Tarricone S. , Giannico F. , Marsico G. , Facciolongo A.M.
Published: April 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of feeding faba bean and sweet lupin as alternative protein sources to soybean on productive performance, blood parameters, carcass composition, and chemical-physical characteristics of meat and its fatty acid (FA) profile in Charolais heifers. Twenty-four heifers were divided into three homogenous groups and fed with durum wheat straw and three iso-energetic and isonitrogenous pelleted complete diets containing 14% (on as-fed basis) soybean meal; 28% faba bean; and 20% sweet lupin seed. The animals were slaughtered after a 168 day feeding period, and the Longissimus lumborum muscle was sampled for meat quality measurements. The feed conversion index was better in the heifers fed faba bean compared with the soybean treatment group (6.71 versus 7.17). No differences were found among treatment groups in productive performance, slaughtering data and physical features. The concentration of linoleic acid in the meat of the soybean group differed significantly from that in the lupin group (2.38 versus 2.11%). Feeding lupin seed increased the concentrations of C20:3 n-6 (0.09%) and C20:4 n-6 (0.20%) in meat significantly, compared with the soya- and faba bean treatments (0.06–0.07% and 0.12–0.13%, respectively). No differences were found among groups for blood parameters, except for urea concentration, which was lower in the lupin group compared with the concentrations in the serum of heifers receiving the soya bean treatment (31.29 as opposed to 37.56 mg/dL). In conclusion, since faba bean and lupin seed did not affect any of the parameters negatively, these legume grains can be included successfully as alternative protein sources in beef cattle diet.Keywords: Faba bean, lupin seed, soybean, beef cattle, feeding
Productive aspects of pigs fed forage cactus silage associated with feed restriction
Authors: Araújo G.M. , Martins T.D.D. , Givisiez P.E.N. , Pascoal L.A.F. , Oliveira R.S. , Oliveira A.C. , Silva J.H.V. , Guerra R.R.
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the use of silage of forage cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica Mill) in diets for finishing pigs. Two experiments were conducted: the first for digestibility and the second for performance. In the performance trial, the quantitative levels of feed restriction (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) were evaluated, which were associated with the supply of forage cactus silage. Forage cactus silage presented 2463.59 and 2456 kcal/kg of digestible and metabolizable energy, respectively. The feed restriction levels associated with the supply of forage cactus silage influenced feed intake, weight gain and final weight negatively, but did not affect feed conversion. Carcass absolute weight was influenced negatively. However, the yield of carcass and cuts and the amount of meat in the carcass were not influenced. With the increase in feed restriction, there was a decrease in duodenal mucosa thickness, intestinal glands, liver glycogen storage and the occurrence of inflammation in the submucosa and intestinal mucosa. Forage cactus silage is not accepted well by animals. The restriction up to 30% of balanced feed did not affect feed conversion, yield of carcass and cuts and economic viability. However, levels over 10% affected intestinal health.Keywords: Alternative feed, feed preservation, intestinal health, Opuntia ficus-indica Mill, pig nutrition
Arbuscular mycorrhizae inoculation of einkorn wheat affects fatty acid, nutrient and mineral concentrations
Authors: Ayaşan T. , Esen S. , Esen V. Kader , Eseceli H. , Cabi E.
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) inoculation, which was administered to increase the quality of einkorn wheat in its fatty acid composition, quality and mineral concentration. Wheat grown from AM inoculated seed (AM+) had increased the dry matter (DM), iron (Fe), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), especially oleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid, and cis-5,-8,-11,-14, and cis-17 eicosapentaenoic acid from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (P <0.05), but decreased crude ash (CA), potassium (K), and total saturated fatty acids (UFA), especially myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and monounsaturated fatty acids, especially cis-palmitoleic acid, cis-10-heptadecenoic acid, cis-11 eicosenoic acid, erucic acid, and linoleic acid (P <0.05) compared with einkorn wheat grown from non-inoculated seed (AM-). Crude protein (CP) content ranged from 10.56% to 10.68%, and ether extract (EE) content varied between 2.03% and 2.41%, neither of which was significantly different between treatments. Significant increases were observed in UFA, and in the ratios of UFA to SFA and PUFA to SFA in AM+ compared with AM-.

Keywords: mycorrhizal inoculation, nutrient composition, Triticum monococcum
Alternatives to the use of antibiotics for laying hens in growing phase
Authors: Tfaile S.M.C. , De Moraes J.E. , Budiño F.E.L. , Soares D.F. , Sitanaka N.Y. , Duarte K.M.R. , Kakimoto S.K. , Reis T.L. , Amoroso L. , Pizzolante C.C.
Published: April 2021

This study evaluated the performance, immune response to vaccination, digestive organs, intestinal histomorphometry, and microbiological development in the diet and litter of Isa Brown strains at growing receiving phase alternative additives in the place of antibiotics. Four treatments were arrayed in a completely randomized design: T1) Basal diet without antibiotics, T2) Basal diet with antibiotics, T3) Basal diet with probiotics, and T4) Basal diet without antibiotics and water modified by a photoelectron generator. There were six replications of eight birds each and thus a total of 192 birds. Performance was evaluated for eight weeks and during this period blood samples were collected at 9, 12 and 15 weeks of age for serological evaluation. At the end of the experimental period, 24 birds were euthanized, collecting the intestinal tract and later performing histomorphometry. Microbiological analyses were performed in the experimental diets and in the material of the litter of the boxes. The results obtained were analyzed by analysis of variance and the contrast between treatment means when significant by Tukey’s test. The results indicate that the replacement of antibiotics with T3 or T4 did not interfere negatively (P >0.05) in the performance of the birds, immunological response, viscera analyses and intestinal histomorphometry. In addition, use of T3 and T4 might lead to more rapid decomposition of excreta and reduce antibiotic residue in the soil when the litter is used in crop production.Keywords: dileka, Gallus domesticus, histomorphometry, laying hens, probiotics, serum biochemistry, water
Supplementation of diets for piglets with L-Arginine and powdered whole milk
Authors: Bem F.A.M. , Pascoal L.A.F. , Da Silva J.H.V. , Martins T.D.D. , Guerra R.R. , De Almeida J.L.S. , Almeida J.M.S. , Batista J.M.M.
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate the supplementation of L-Arginine in diets with and without dairy products for piglets weaned at 21 days old. Thirty-two animals with initial mean weight of 5.16 ± 1.92 kg and from the same commercial lineage were allocated in a randomized block design to four diets. The experimental diets consisted of a corn and soybean meal-based diet (NDD), the same diet supplemented with 0.6% L-Arginine (NDDA), the diet supplemented with powdered whole milk (DD), and the diet supplemented with powdered whole milk and 0.6% of L-Arginine (DDA). At 43 days old, 16 animals were slaughtered. The productive performance, incidence of diarrhoea, serum parameters, relative organ weight, morphometry and intestinal health were evaluated. Supplementation with 0.6% of L-Arginine increased (P <0.05) the daily and final weight gain of the piglets at 32 days old and reduced the incidence of diarrhoea. DDA promoted a higher villi to crypt ratio (P <0.05). There was a lower rate of mitosis and apoptosis in the jejunum of animals fed DD and DDA. The non-dairy diet supplemented with 0.6% arginine (NDDA) increased serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations compared with NDD (P <0.05). Thus, supplementation with 0.6% L-Arginine increased immunological activity, improved intestinal integrity, and reduced the incidence of diarrhoea.
Effects of feed particle size on energy values for broiler chickens at various ages
Authors: Frank R. , Pozza P.C. , Scherer C. , Schöne R.A. , Avila A.S. , Carvalho P.L.O. , Broch J. , Eyng C. , Nunes R.V.
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of various geometric mean diameters (GMDs) of particles of corn, pelleted soybean meal and a corn-soy mixture in the proportion of 70% and 30%, respectively, on the nutritional value of the feeds. The study evaluated energy consumption, the contents of apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and AME corrected for nitrogen balance (AMEn) and the metabolizability coefficients for broiler chickens at various ages. A total of 540 Cobb 500 male broilers were housed in metabolic cages (experimental units). Trials were performed separately with each feed. A completely randomized design was used with four treatments, namely corn with 573, 636, 851, and 1012 μm GMDs; pelleted soybean meal with 538, 550, 665, and 741 μm GMDs; and the corn-soy mixture with 627, 658, 893, and 1040 μm GMDs. Birds were evaluated on days 1 - 10, 11 - 20, 21 - 30, and 31 - 40. Larger GMDs resulted in lower energy consumption. From 1 to 10 days, birds consumed less metabolizable energy than older birds. Birds fed corn from days 1 to 10 had higher metabolizable energy (P <0.05) with increasing GMD up to 1042 μm. However, the results varied, depending on the feed and its combinations. The use of coarse particles could reduce the costs of grinding, and would have few effects on the metabolizable energy of broiler chickens.
Feather growth, bodyweight and body temperature in broiler lines with different feathering rates
Authors: Noubandiguim M. , Erensoy K. , Sarica M.
Published: April 2021

Two early feathering sire lines (B1 and B2), two late feathering dam lines (A1 and A3), and an early feathering dam line were evaluated to determine differences in growth, in lengths of primary feathers, in under-wing and rectal temperatures, and in feed intake until the birds were 20 weeks old. The chicks were hatched from eggs collected from 35-week-old hens of pure line broiler flocks. Data were collected at hatch, and at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 20 weeks old Thirty males and 30 females were evaluated for each line. The early feathering genotypes (A2, B1 and B2) had longer primary feathers until they were six weeks old. They also had higher under-wing and rectal temperatures and higher live weight compared with the late-feathering lines (A1 and A3) at one and two weeks old. The males were heavier than females at all ages. However, under-wing and rectal temperatures were similar in males and females at all ages. A positive correlation was observed between the length of primary feathers and live weight in A2, B1, and B2 at six weeks, whereas a negative correlation was observed between the rectal temperature and the length of primary feathers in A1 and A3 at 4 and 20 weeks old.
True phosphorus digestibility of cottonseed meal and rice husk supplemented with microbial phytase in broiler chickens
Authors: Ilaboya I.I. , Iyayi E.A.
Published: April 2021

This research aimed to determine effects of phytase in cottonseed meal (CM) and rice husk (RH) based diets on true phosphorus digestibility (TPD) by broiler chickens. Two studies were conducted with 576 one-day-old broiler chickens using regression analysis to determine the TPD in these diets and the response to phytase supplementation. Six semi-purified diets were formulated to contain 150 g, 300 g, and 450 g each of CM/kg (experiment 1) and RH/kg (experiment 2) with phytase supplied at 0 and 1000 units/kg. Titanium dioxide was added to the diets at the rate of 5 g/kg as an indigestible maker. A total of 288 broiler chickens in each study were weighed and allotted to the six diets with six replicates of eight birds in a randomized complete block design. The birds were fed the experimental diets until day 26 post hatch. The coefficients of true phosphorus retention (TPR) were 0.8 for CM and 0.78 for RH without phytase; 0.93 for CM and 0.92 for RH with phytase. True phosphorus digestibility was 0.82 for CM and 0.75 for RH without phytase; and 0.95 for CM and 0.92 for RH with phytase. Phytase supplementation resulted in 13.27 and 17.94 % increases in TPD; and 12.29 and 13.61 % increases in TPR by birds fed the CM and RH diets, respectively. Phytase supplementation of CM and RH based diets increased TPD and improved total TPR and true ileal phosphorus digestibility in broiler chickens.
Effects of guavira fruit (Campomanesia adamantium) peel extract on performance and meat quality of broilers
Authors: Lohmann M.L. , Eyng C. , Nunes R.V. , Argandona E.J.S. , Correia C.A.C. , Köhler T.L. , Costa A.P.G.C.
Published: April 2021

This article assessed the performance, carcass yield, and meat quality of finishing broilers fed increasing levels of hydroethanolic extract of guavira fruit peel (HEGP) were assessed. A total of 480, three-weeks-old male broilers were randomly allocated to dietary levels of HEGP (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mg/kg), with five replicates and 16 birds each. There was a quadratic effect of HEGP inclusion on weight gain (WG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR), with the greatest WG and FCR being calculated at levels of 314 and 219 mg/kg HEGP, respectively. Broilers fed diets containing the extract had better performance than those fed an extract-free diet. There was no effect of extract inclusion on carcass yield and cuts. There was a quadratic effect of HEGP inclusion on a* (redness) of thigh meat at 15 min post-mortem, and on water-holding capacity (WHC), with the lowest and highest values being calculated at 270 mg/kg and 263 mg/kg HEGP, respectively. There was a quadratic influence of HEGP inclusion on the malonaldehyde content at 30-day storage, with highest value being calculated at 218 mg/kg HEGP. Dietary inclusion of 219 mg/kg of HEGP resulted in better FCR for broilers in the finishing phase but without improvement in meat quality.
Effects of replacing soybean meal with slow-release urea on milk production of Holstein dairy cows
Authors: Hallajian S. , Fakhraei J. , Yarahamdi H.M. , Khorshidi K.J.
Published: April 2021

The study investigated the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with slow-release urea (SRU) on milk production, milk composition, and rumen fermentation of Holstein dairy cows. Sixteen Holstein cows weighing between 550 and 680 kg in mid lactation were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments in a 12-week study. The treatments consisted of T1: a diet containing 16.7% crude protein (CP), T2: T1 with 0.5% SRU replacing plant protein, T3: T1 with 0.75% SRU replacing plant protein, and T4: T1 with 1.00% SRU replacing plant protein. Animals were fed three times a day with feed being offered ad libitum. Dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) were not affected by the level of SRU. Feeding SRU did not affect milk production and milk composition significantly, but milk fat and milk urea nitrogen (MUN) levels were increased. Significant differences were observed in ruminal volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration. Feeding SRU increased butyrate concentration with no significant effects on concentrations of acetate or propionate. Significant differences were observed in cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations, but glucose, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) levels were not affected significantly by the treatments. Thus, feeding SRU altered the release rate of ammonia and provided more ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) for microbial protein synthesis in the rumen.
Effects of dietary fibre level on rumen pH, total microbial count and methanogenic archaea in Bonsmara and Nguni steers
Authors: Jiyana S.T. , Ratsaka M.M. , Leeuw K-J. , Mbatha K.R.
Published: April 2021

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the level of dietary fibre on rumen pH, total microbial count and methanogenic archaeacount of Bonsmara (225 ± 10.0 kg live weight) and Nguni (215 ± 10.0 kg live weight) steers. Nine steers per breed were used, aged 8 to 9 months. A 3 x 2 factorial experiment was executed with treatments allocated in a completely randomized design. The treatments were diets which included 64.3% neutral detergent fibre (NDF) for diet 1, 40.4% NDF for diet 2, and 29.9% NDF for diet 3. Steers were fed for 90 days and housed in individual pens. Rumen fluid was collected from steers using a stomach tube. Rumen fluid samples were taken immediately to the laboratory for microbial assay. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The various levels of dietary fibre did not affect rumen pH and methanogenic archaea count. However, a low-fibre diet yielded high rumen total microbial count for Bonsmara steers and low rumen total microbial count for Nguni steers. Therefore, a low-fibre diet can be applied as a viable strategy to enhance rumen total microbial count in exotic beef breeds and crossbred cattle such as Bonsmara. Nguni steers fed a high NDF diet had higher rumen total microbial count than Nguni steers fed a low-fibre diet. Therefore, a high NDF diet can be used efficiently by feeding it to indigenous breeds and purebred cattle such as Nguni.
Characterization of tropical freshwater; River Ogun, Lagos Nigeria
Authors: Oladunjoye R.Y. , Fafioye O.O. , Solola T.D. , Ogbu U.M. , Oladeji T.S.
Published: April 2021

Physico-chemical parameters and microbial contents of Ogun River at Magodo area, Lagos were investigated in relation to its safety for consumption. Water samples were weekly collected between August and December, 2016 at three equi-distance intervals for analysis on physico-chemical parameters, total bacterial count and biochemical tests following standard recommended procedures. Mean concentrations of the physico-chemical parameters were found in ranges for pH (6.68 ± 0.15 - 6.86 ± 0.21), temperature (26.78 ± 0.14 – 26.92 ± 0.31), electrical conductivity (355.40 ± 101.93 – 456.40 ± 115.77), total dissolved solids (166.80 ± 48.08 - 215.00 ± 54.29), dissolved oxygen (7.06 ± 0.01 - 7.08 ± 0.02), biochemical oxygen demand (25.59 ± 0.03 - 25.64 ± 0.01), chemical oxygen demand (98.75 ± 0.03 - 98.84 ± 0.02), total hardness (345.80 ± 1.28 - 349.40 ± 3.87), total alkalinity (9.28 ± 0.02 - 9.33 ± 0.02), nitrate (0.27 ± 0.00 - 0.28 ± 0.00), sulphate (0.55 ± 0.05 - 0.62 ± 0.00) and chloride (68.84 ± 0.77 - 74.97 ± 1.23). Total colony forming unit (Cfu) of bacteria in the river was found highest in descending order Centrimide Agar (CA) > Mac-Conkey Agar (MCA) > Plate Count Agar (PCA) > Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA) at the first and second serial dilution respectively. Biochemical tests showed the presence of Staphylococcus species, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus sp., Salmonella sp. and Baccillus sp. in the river. Variations in the microbial load and physico-chemical parameters in Ogun River as a result of different human activities around the river was found within the standard limits which makes the River safe for human consumption.

Key words: River Ogun, microbial load, bacterial count, biochemical tests Trop.
Helminth parasites of cultured Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Effiong M.U , Obot N.E
Published: April 2021

The study examined helminth parasites of cultured Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. A total of 60 fish samples (30 each of C.gariepinus and T. zillii) were subjected to parasitological examinations. Results revealed a total of 47(78.33%) fishes infected with various species of parasites: Nematodes (Camallanus polypteri, Paracamallanus cyathopharynx, and Procamallanus laevionchus), Cestodes (Polyonchobothrium torulosus and P. clariae) and Trematodes (Dactylogyrus extensus and Glossiduim pedatum) in decreasing order of abundance. Out of the 60 fish samples examined, 47 were infected with 219 parasites: 142(64.84%) nematodes, 40(18.26%) cestodes and 37(16.89%) trematodes. A total of 159(72.60%) parasites were recovered from C. gariepinus out of which 103(64.78%) were nematodes, 19(18.45%) were cestodes and 37(35.92%) were trematodes. While 60(27.40%) parasites were recovered from T. zilli, of which 39(65.00%) were nematodes and 21(35.00%) cestodes. No trematode was observed in the tilapia. The overall prevalence of parasitic infection was 78.33%. The results of chi square analysis showed that females of both species had significantly higher (P<0.05) prevalence of infection 27(84.4%) than males 20(71.4%). Also, C. gariepinus had higher infection rate of 25(83.33%) when compared to 22(73.33%) recorded in T. zillii.

Key words: fish parasites, aquaculture, prevalence, C. gariepinus, T. zillii
Biotreatment of brewery effluents for aquaculture use using autochthonous fungi
Authors: Udoh J.P , Otoh A.J , Udang M.E
Published: April 2021

The potential of reducing environmental impact of untreated brewery effluent was investigated. Although concentrations of pollutants in such effluents are usually considered low and inadvertently discharged into adjacent urban drainage facility, mycoremediation to remove dissolved inorganic nutrients in effluent was conducted with a view for aquaculture use in Uyo metropolis, southeast Nigeria. Raw brewery effluents were obtained and screened for indigenous microbial flora. Autochthonous fungi isolated included Aspergillus niger, Verticillium sp. and Mucor sp. The potential use of isolates as alternative treatment of brewery effluents was analyzed for treated and control groups. Treated group was inoculated with pure colonies of fungi isolates while the control group received no fungi treatment or modification. Both groups were incubated for seven (7) days. Thereafter, the physicochemical parameters of raw and remediated effluents were analysed and compared with National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and aquaculture standards. Results confirmed suitability of autochthonous fungi isolates in mycoremediation of brewery effluent for aquaculture and irrigation.

Key words: effluent toxicity, industrial pollution, mycoremediation, aquatic ecosystem, Uyo
Energy Efficiency of LVDC Supplies Including PV Sources
Authors: Ammous Anis , Alahdal Abdulrahman , Ammous Kaiçar
Published: April 2021

The Low Voltage Direct Current (LVDC) system concept has been growing in the recent times due to its characteristics and advantages like renewable energy source compatibility, more straightforward integration with storage utilities through power electronic converters and distributed loads. This paper presents the energy efficiency performances of a proposed LVDC supply concept and others classical PV chains architectures. A PV source was considered in the studied nanogrids. The notion of Relative Saved Energy (RSE) was introduced to compare the studied PV systems energy performances. The obtained results revealed that the employment of the LVDC chain supply concept is very interesting and the use of DC loads as an alternative to AC loads, when a PV power is generated locally, is more efficient. The installed PV power source in the building should be well sized regarding to the consumed power in order to register a high system RSE.
Geostatistical analysis for mapping soil salinity in the Lajas Valley Agricultural Reserve, southwestern Puerto Rico
Authors: Oliveras-Berrocales Miguel , Pérez-Alegría Luis R. , Sotomayor-Ramírez David
Published: April 2021

Studies were conducted in the 1950s to evaluate the degree and spatial extent of soil salinity and sodicity in the Lajas Valley in southwestern Puerto Rico. Problem areas were identified and most of these were remediated with the establishment of irrigation and drainage infrastructure, resulting in a four-fold increase in agricultural production over a 10-year period. The area is now an important agricultural region (known as the Lajas Valley Agricultural Reserve). But soil salinity and sodicity are important concerns among farmers. In this paper we used published data and re-created the spatial distribution of soil salinity and sodicity using geostatistical analysis with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). An Ordinary Kriging method was applied to map the spatial distribution of soil salinity and to classify soils in four classes: (i) Normal, (ii) Saline, (iii) Saline-Sodic, and (iv) Sodic. The original hand-drawn maps were digitized using the Georeferencing Tool in ArcGIS, guided by a recent aerial photo of the Lajas Valley. Salinity and sodicity isopleths were created using Surface Generation to map the spatial distribution and to compare the newly created data to the original maps. The relative error in aerial estimate between the old and new maps for Normal, Saline, Saline-Sodic, and Sodic surface soils was between 1 and 5 percent. The new maps developed with geostatistical analysis can predict soil problem areas with a 94% coincidence compared with the hand-drawn maps. The highest proportion of soils classified as Normal was found in the upper soil layers and the proportion of soils affected by salt and sodium increased with depth. The combination of geostatistical analysis and GIS is a cost-effective and trustworthy method for analyzing similar datasets that would otherwise be costly and involve lengthy time commitments.
Caloric contribution of imported and locally produced food in Puerto Rico
Authors: Hernández Julio César , Comas-Pagán Myrna , Jiménez Alwin , Blas Sandra
Published: April 2021

The aim of this article is to evaluate the caloric contribution of the top imported and locally produced foods in Puerto Rico. Data from the USDA and Puerto Rico Planning Board were used to estimate caloric needs in different demographic groups and projected until 2025. In analyzing Puerto Rican produce, the caloric contribution of local production was estimated to be around 18 percent. By contrast, when the caloric contribution of 50 foods imported and produced in Puerto Rico was evaluated, these foods account for 115 percent of the calories needed daily for the population to maintain a normal weight. Sugar, rice, vegetable oil, milk and corn make the greatest contribution to the Puerto Rican diet, representing an estimated 58 percent of average number of calories that Puerto Ricans should consume. The distribution of calories identified in these 50 articles consumed in Puerto Rico (e.g., fruits, vegetables, dairy products, proteins, carbohydrates, etc.) shows serious discrepancies from the distribution suggested by the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines developed by experts of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For example, 34 percent of the calories consumed in Puerto Rico correspond to foods high in sugar and fat.
Determination of Physico-chemical properties of selected tropical timbers in Anambra State, South Eastern Nigeria
Authors: NWANISOBI G.C , EJIKEME EZECHI C. , OKEKE C. U
Published: April 2021

The analyses on chemical properties of some tropical timbers have been studied. The physical properties of these timbers varied in the pH(4.26 – 6.85) , moisture content(13%-37%), specific gravity(0.16-0.45), charring temperature (61 – 116o C)and porosity index(1.17-2.08%).Also the solubility behaviors of these timbers were mostly insoluble in hot and cold water, NaOH and ethanol and slightly soluble in concentrated HCl and H2SO4 respectively. The Qualitative results show heavy presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannis, glycosides, steroids and terpenoids in some of the timbers.Quantitative determinations were carried out and results show that the woods contain chemical constituents which are useful to both humans and industries.
Theoretical Aspects of Interaction between Special Forces Units of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia, the National Guard of Russia, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in the Field of Law Enforcement
Authors: Ponikarov Sergei V.
Published: April 2021

The paper investigates a novel issue related to the cooperation between special forces units of the penal system and other (special) similar units, namely, the police and the National Guard (including the Special Purpose Mobile Unit and the Special Rapid Response Unit). We note that earlier these units were part of the system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia. The paper presents the results of a study of organizational and legal interaction of the special forces of the penal system with other bodies in the field of law enforcement. We argue that the cooperation between these units has the greatest potential in conducting special operations to prevent emergencies related to hostage-taking, mass riots, and escapes of convicts. We highlight major organizational criteria for interaction between the divisions under consideration. We put forward our own definition of the essence of organizing the interaction between special forces units of the penal system and special units of other agencies in emergency situations taking place in correctional institutions. We describe characteristic features of this interaction. The integration of these features allowed us to formulate a scientific definition of the interaction under consideration in a broad sense. The article analyzes specific features of cooperation between special forces units of the penal system and other bodies; these features involve the establishment of interpersonal contacts between the heads of these units. We emphasize the scientific and organizational principles of interaction, such as balance, mobility, and preparedness. We propose tactical interaction, which consists of an action plan, preliminary training, management decisions and practical actions of the personnel. The paper also presents the results of an empirical study on the integration of special forces units.

Key words: interaction; organization and tactics; institutions and bodies of FSIN Russia; law enforcement; special forces of the penal system; other special bodies.
Regulation Features in Individuals with Personality Disorders and Accentuated Personality Traits Who Committed Aggressive and Violent Crimes
Authors: Shekhovtsova Elena S. , Bulygina Vera G.
Published: April 2021

The paper investigates individual psychological features of self-regulation in people with personality disorders and accentuated personality traits. Our goal is to specify the data on regulation disorders taking into account the nature of committed offences so as to substantiate the validity of expert conclusions, promote individualization in punishment, and build models for secondary psychological prevention. We survey 134 men including 94 individuals with personality disorders, 20 individuals with accentuated personality traits and 20 individuals without mental disorders. We use a set of methodological tools to assess the extent of self-control deficiency); the set includes J. Kagan’s Matching Familiar Figures Test, situation analysis, a new questionnaire for tolerance toward uncertainty, J. Stroop’s Color and Word Test, behavioral self-regulation style. We carry out statistical processing of the data with the help of descriptive statistics method, frequency analysis, an independent samples t-test, the Mann–Whitney U-test, and the Kruskal-Wallis test to compare three independent samples. We have found out that regulation disorders in people with personality disorders who committed violent crimes are associated with the ability to predict the consequences adequately and find socially acceptable ways to resolve problem situations. We show that when an individual has to deal with information shortage, contradictory information, perceptual interference or increased emotional intensity of the situation the probability of disorders in their conscious regulation of behavior increases significantly. Accordingly, to address the tasks of penal science and practice, we consider it expedient to use the indicators identified in the course of our present research, because they can be not only predictors of behavioral dysregulation and aggressive responses, but also targets for psychological therapy.

Key words: self-regulation, personality disorders, accentuated personality traits, situation analysis, type of offence.
The Magic Wand: A Case Study of Chronic Neck Pain
Authors: Winkler Sandra
Published: April 2021

Medications used to manage chronic pain have documented side effects including drug dependency, drug interaction, and adverse systemic reactions. This case study used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to understand how one individual experienced chronic neck pain including pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions. Convenience sampling identified Ms. P, an individual with a 10-year history of chronic pain. The research questions were: “How does one individual with chronic neck pain describe their experience living with neck pain?” and “How does one individual with chronic neck pain manage their pain?” Three super-ordinate themes emerged: pain pervades everything, finding relief, and recovery. Findings suggest that living with chronic pain is framed by both the experience of severe pain and the search for a cure. Fear, panic, and despair accompany ongoing pain. Initially, the participant’s physician prescribed medications including narcotics, which are described as a slippery slope. In desperation, the participant sought alternative treatments.
Athletes’ Perceptions of Positive Development Resulting from Canadian Intercollegiate Sport: A Content Analysis
Authors: Rathwell Scott , Young Bradley
Published: April 2021

Governing bodies of university sport have adopted more holistic approaches to the development of their athletes (Canadian Interuniversity Sport, 2013; NCAA, 2015). To our knowledge, there has been little empirical effort made to describe and assess positive development in the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) context. In this study, we qualitatively examined positive development outcomes associated with athletes’ participation in CIS sport programs. We conducted semi-structured open-ended interviews with 15 student-athletes (5 male, 10 female; Mage = 22, range = 17-26). To analyze the data, we performed a deductive content analysis (Hsieh & Shannon, 2005) using positive development categories found within the Youth Experience Survey (YES 2.0; Hansen & Larson, 2005). Athletes discussed positive developmental outcomes consistent with all YES categories. Our results suggest university sport programs offer rich opportunities for developing skills, qualities, experiences, and relationships needed to become functioning members in our society.
Experiences of Female Sex Trafficking Survivors: A Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Sukach Tetiana , Gonzalez Natali , Cravens Pickens Jaclyn
Published: April 2021

Human sex trafficking is a worldwide issue that affects millions of people. Victims of this industry undergo numerous traumatic events, which greatly impact their lives. Given the prevalence and traumatic nature of the sex trafficking industry, there is a need to raise greater awareness of victims’ experiences. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of 15 female survivors of sex trafficking, who shared their stories on equalitynow.org. Using phenomenology, the researchers answered the following questions: “What are the experiences of female survivors of sexual human trafficking within the industry?” and “How do survivors make sense of those experiences?” The analysis resulted in 6 themes and 10 subthemes that describe the lived experiences of female survivors of sex trafficking. Clinical implications and future research recommendations are discussed.
Truckin’ Down the Principles-Focused Evaluation Road: A Review of Michael Quinn Patton’s Principles-Focused Evaluation: The GUIDE
Authors: Anderson Anne
Published: April 2021

This review of Michael Quinn Patton’s Principles-Focused Evaluation: The GUIDE (Patton, 2017a) examines the organizational structure of Patton’s book and notes the contributions of other evaluators who share their experiences in using principles-focused evaluation with a variety of programs, including ones serving homeless youth, ones seeking solutions to global food issues, and ones working to change journalism. The GUIDE provides a wealth of informative material about Patton’s model, an evaluative tool based on the acronym GUIDE—principles must Guide, be Useful, Inspire, be Developmental, and be Evaluable—plus practice exercises to encourage reflective processing of the material and numerous charts and tables. Patton also cautions readers to avoid a “best practices” mindset by embracing uncertainty, even toward evaluation.
A Warden or a Ballerina: Examining the Relationship between Gender Socialization, and Occupational Choice among Prison Wardens and Superintendents
Authors: Altendorf Karen
Published: April 2021

This study explores the career experiences of women who hold leadership positions within the field of corrections as Wardens and Superintendents. Specifically the research seeks to examine the personal biographies of these women in an effort to document life experiences shaping their occupational choices. Twenty nine interviews were conducted with wardens and superintendents from 13 states. Subjects were questioned about family, education, perceptions of occupational choice, and career aspirations. Generational differences exist between female wardens in relation to boarder social trends in gender and occupation. The more support women receive from parents and family to pursue education and careers, the more likely they were to have clearly established goals toward that end. The more educational and career opportunities women perceive and being available, the more likely they will pursue those goals. The role of women in the field of corrections has changed dramatically over the past fifty years and women working in corrections are redefining femininity in a masculine organizational culture.
“Life Is Splendid Here in the U.S.”: Intercultural Learning in Contemporary Chinese Students’ Academic Adjustment
Authors: Achirri Karolina
Published: April 2021

The increasing numbers of Chinese learners studying at American universities and the high mobility across borders have recently challenged prevailing stereotypes of Asians in education. While studies of Chinese students are abundant, there has been scant research on how intercultural learning unfolds in these students’ adjustment to both academic and social settings. To address this research gap, I center my case study around six of my former students from China and examine their progress at different U.S. institutions. Data from their journals were coded and analyzed qualitatively. In tracing my participants’ first semester trajectory and their strategies to adapt to the new environments, I draw on critical approaches to the established models of ICC (Byram, 1997; Deardorff, 2006; Dervin, 2016). Through investigating my students’ previous exposure to Western education and its role in their adjustment, their intercultural encounters in the U.S., and the learning that emerges from such encounters, this project offers insights into how previous linguistic and educational experiences can be mobilized and optimized to enhance intercultural learning and what frictions can occur in the process of adaptation. I also delineate characteristics of a new type of students from China, namely individuals who move fluidly between cultures in hybridized ways. I conclude by providing pedagogical implications for language educators who work with multicultural learners.
Distinctions and Something Between: An Inspection of Eviatar Zerubavel’s Concept Driven Sociology
Authors: Konecki Krzysztof
Published: April 2021

The paper presents short summaries and analyses of two books by Eviatar Zerubavel (2018a; 2020) that are demonstrations of his approach to cognitive sociology. The first book (2018a) shows examples of the analysis in Zerubavelian cognitive sociology, and the second one is a methodological and theoretical elaboration of his approach described in formal terms. We analyze the approach presented at the end of the paper, showing that the analysis of distinctions and perceptive categories is essential in Zerubavel analysis. Still, there is an unclear dimension (in between) included in the contexts of perception, lived experiences, and perception of the world beyond the categories that we introduce in our analysis.
CAPACITY BUILDING THROUGH FOREIGN AIDED PROJECT: AN EVALUATIVE STUDY
Authors:   Ministry of Textile Industry, Government of Pakistan., Akram Sabahat
Published: April 2021

Purpose:This study presents an analysis of the impact of training (capacity development) through a foreign aided project National Education project NEP in AJK. Methodology/Sampling:A customized set of capacity domains was developed using standard analysis tools devised by UNDP against whom the change due to trainings was measured. The variables of the model are Relevance, Performance, Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Sustainability & Community Participation. The statistical estimates are based on a data set of various surveys and scheduled interviews. Findings:The study concludes that although trainings for the master trainers were relevant and efficient but they could not provide desired results for ultimate beneficiaries that is the primary teachers. Sustainability and community participation were the weaker areas of the project creating negative effects. Practical Implications:The analysis includes recommendations for more prudent future policy making of such projects. This research study is first of its kind for a particular area of Pakistan. It presents an overview of the foreign aided project and will serve as database for future planning and research.
MACROECONOMIC VARIABLES AND RISING FOOD PRICES: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM PAKISTAN
Authors:   Institute of Professional Development Islamabad, Pakistan., Salman Hamid
Published: April 2021

Purpose: This study examines the long and short-run impact of macroeconomic variable on rising food commodities prices. Methodology/Sampling: For this paper mixed method approach is used, quantitative time series data over the period 1991-2013 and autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to Co-integration, whereas qualitative data is collected from thematic analysis of many past researches in order to determine the most and least critical consequences of food prices skies by using NVIVO 10 software technique “tree map”. Findings: The result shows energy prices and dollar prices have positive beta coefficients and having statistically significant impact on rising food commodities price index Moreover, the error correction model’s coefficient is with negative sign that suggests its expected significant adjustment toward long-term. Whereas the qualitative results identified different variables have different magnitude of relationship with rising food prices in different situation; Exchange rate, energy prices, money supply are the most critical consequences of rising food items prices. Practical Implications: The study therefore recommends that government should develop and integrated efficient and effective energy and monetary policy with long-term future development outline of controlling food inflation.
IMPORTANCE OF MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS AMONG FRESH GRADUATE EMPLOYEES
Authors:   Bahria University, Karachi., Shujaat Sobia
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The current research is focused on analyzing the importance of motivational factors for newly graduated employees working in different organizations. Methodology/Sampling: Primary data was gathered in the form of questionnaire survey from the selected respondents. The proposed study employed quantitative research technique. The study is exploratory in nature. 394 respondents were selected for the study including freshly graduated employees from different organizations. The data collected was analyzed statistically. Findings: It was revealed from the study that there is significant impact of participation in decision-making and fair reward system on fresh graduates. However, there was no direct influence of monetary factors on fresh graduate motivation; nature of work and job description. Practical Implications: The study is beneficial for human resource managers as it may help them in designing motivating jobs. Management can take into consideration factors that are important to motivate fresh graduates on job and then take actions in implementing them.