bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy partitioning of pregnant and lactating rabbit fed combination of concentrate and stylosanthes hamata hay
Authors: Tsavkar D. T. , Latu M. Y. , Tsavkar D. T. , Olutunmogun A. K. , Barje P. P. , Iyeghe- Erakpotobor G. T.
Published: February 2021

The study was carried out to examine energy partitioning of pregnant and lactating rabbit offered levels of concentrate and Stylosanthes hamata hay to ascertain whether it meets their high reproductive and nutritional requirement. Forty-eight nulliparous crossbred does (New Zealand White x California and California x Chinchilla breeds) of eight months old were allocated to four dietary treatments in a completely randomised design. During gestation, 150 g/doe/day concentrate and Stylosanthes hamata hay combinations (30:120g, 60:90g, 90:60g and 120:30g) was offered while 350 g/doe/day concentrate and Stylosanthes hamata hay combinations (70:280g, 140:210g, 210:140g and 280:70g) was offered during lactation. Estimations of digestible energy during pregnancy and lactation were carried out and reference data were used to calculate forDE DE DE DE BalanceDE and DE /LW0.75. req, m, fg, macc, req Results obtained showed non-significant (P>0.05) difference among 90:60 and 120:30% concentrate and Stylosanthes hamata hay combinations in terms of DM DE DE DE intake, intake, req, fg, DE BalanceDE and DE /LW0.75, but were significantly (P<0.05) higher than 30:120 and macc, req 60:90% concentrate and Stylosanthes hamata hay combinations. Rabbit in the 4th week of pregnancy had significantly (P<0.05) higher DE DE DE DE BalanceDE and intake, req, fg, macc, DE /LW0.75 than does in the 2nd week of pregnancy. During lactation, all parameters showed req non-significant (P>0.05) difference. Therefore, the diet combinations were sufficient to provide adequate digestible energy for the physiological needs of does during pregnancy and lactation.
Positive response of rabbits fed varying levels of palm kernel cake as a replacement for wheat offal
Authors: Umar A. M. , Muhammad A. S. , Adamu N. , Modi M.
Published: February 2021

A major cost of producing rabbits is that of feed. Palm kernel cake is cheaper and locally available than wheat offal. This study was therefore, conducted to evaluate the performance of rabbits fed Palm Kernel Cake (PKC) as a replacement for Wheat Offal (WO). Twenty weaned rabbits of both sexes were used in the experiment. The rabbits were allocated to five diets, each with four replicates. Each diet contained the same quantities of ingredients but PKC and WO were varied such that diet (A) was 0% PKC and 40% WO, (B)10% PKC and 30% WO, (C)20% PKC and 20% WO, (D)30% PKC and 10% WO, and (E)40% PKC and 0% WO to measure feed intake, growth rate and feed conversion ratio. Carcass and organs of the rabbits were analysed. Average daily feed intake of rabbits recorded for diet A, B, C, D and E was 49.37, 40.05, 38.18, 39.10 and 56.05. The results revealed an  insignificant difference in final weights of rabbits among all treatments which ranged from 777.50g (A) to 965.00g (E). The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was also not significant and ranged from 5.21 – 4.55 with diet A having the highest FCR. There were also no significant differences in carcass and organ weights among the treatments. The carcass weight ranged from 395.00g to 594.25g on diet A and E respectively. Diet E had the highest dressing percentage (57.70%) while the least was recorded for diet B (53.28%). It can be concluded that PKC compared favourably with WO and could be used to replace the latter without  deleterious effects.
Influence of different levels of calcium and vitamin D3 in cassava-based diet on the performance of laying hens
Authors: Akinola L. A. F. , Ebhohon S. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine the influence of different levels of calcium and vitamin D3 in a cassava-based diet on performance of laying hens. One hundred and eight Isa Brown hens which were 34 weeks' old were used in a three by two factorial arrangement in a complete randomized design. Birds were fed diets containing different levels of calcium (A= 2.5%, B= 3.5%, and C= 4.5%), with each calcium level also containing vitamin D3 at levels of 2000, 4000 and 6000 IU. All birds were raised under the same management condition within the nine treatment combinations which had three replicates of four (4) birds each. Records of the feed intake, egg lay, cost of feed ingredients and mortality were documented. The records were used to calculate the hen-day production (HDP), feed intake, number of eggs laid per hen, dozens of eggs laid per hen, feed consumed per dozen egg, feed cost per dozen egg produced and mortality. The result obtained showed that diets B (3.5%), C (4.5%), the 2000 IU vitamin D3 level and diet C (4.5% calcium) containing 2000 IU vitamin D3 were better in terms of the number of eggs laid per egg, hen day production, and dozen egg per hen. Thus, farmers can use 3.5%, 4.5% calcium levels or 2000 IU vitamin D3 levels singly/individually in diet for laying hens and obtain better result. However, the C diet (4.5% calcium) containing 2000 IU vitamin D3 which had the highest number of eggs, HDP, dozen egg per hen, best feed conversion to eggs as well as the least cost of production is recommended for laying hens in the humid tropics, when calcium and vitamin D3 are used together in a cassava-based diet to feed hens
Growth rates of main and reciprocal crosses of Isa Brown and local chickens
Authors: Nwaogwugwu U. C. , Udoh U. H.
Published: February 2021

The absolute and relative instantaneous growth rates of F1 hybrid chickens were determined  at 2- 10 and 12-20 week periods of growth. The hybrids were hatched from eggs laid by 69 Isa Brown and local chicken parents. A total of 123, 49 and 116 chicks of Isa Brown x frizzle feathered (IBxF), Isa Brown x naked neck (IBxNa) and Isa Brown x normal feathered IBxN) main crosses and 137, 42 and 64 chicks of frizzle feathered x Isa Brown (FxIB), naked neck x Isa Brown (Na x IB) and normal feathered x Isa Brown (NxIB) reciprocal crosses, respectively were produced at day-old. The greatest absolute growth rates of 49.44g/week at 2-10 weeks and 71.11 g/week at 12-20 weeks were obtained from IBxN and FxIB genotypes, respectively. Instantaneously, IBxNa had the greatest rate of 0.28 g/time at 2-10 weeks, while IB x F and Na x IB each at 12-20 weeks were found to grow at the greatest rate of 0.091 g/time, respectively. It was concluded that normal and naked neck genes could be utilised in main crosses to develop fast growing broiler chicks while frizzle and naked neck genes could be used in reciprocal crosses to improve good laying pullets without precocious maturity.
Quality assessment of commercially available Newcastle disease vaccine in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Ambali H. A. , Okolocha E. C. , Kabir J. , Moru N. H.
Published: February 2021

Newcastle disease (ND) outbreaks occur among vaccinated and non-vaccinated poultry flocks causing varying degrees of economic losses despite vigorous vaccination for the control of the disease. In this study, the qualities of vaccines available for the control of ND in poultry in Lagos State were evaluated. A total of 264 blood samples were collected from poultry flocks of the enrolled farmers and 80vials of ND vaccines were obtained from nine poultry vaccine retailers patronized by the enrolled farmers. Twenty-five vials of ND vaccines were also collected from five importers that were patronized by the poultry vaccine retailers. Five vials each of the different ND vaccines were purchased from each retailers or importers and were used as representative samples of the different ND vaccines available for sale at the time of sampling. These were subjected to both physical and serological testing using Haemagglutination test (HA), Haemagglutination–inhibition test (HI) and Enzyme?linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Coefficient of variance of solubility among all the vaccines ranged from 7.06% to 378.89%. Vaccines obtained from retailers had meanHA titres of between 0.2 log and 11 log , while for the imported vaccines the mean HA titre 2 2 was between 6 log₂and 10.8log₂. Two hundred and sixty-four sera were tested for ND antibody, out of which 240 (90.91%) and 262 (99.24%) were positive for the presence of protective HI and ELISA ND antibodies respectively. From this study, lower coefficient of variance of solubility was observed in vaccines from importers than those from retailerswhich could indicate that vaccines are probably better stored by importers than the retailers. There should be proactive government monitoring agency at all levels of vaccine protocols.
Effects of fermentation on the nutritional status of Afzelia africana Sm. seed and its potentiality as aqua feedstuff
Authors: Suleiman B.
Published: February 2021

The effects of fermentation on proximate and anti-nutrient compositions of Afzelia africana seed were investigated. Two methods of fermentation were employed; the traditional fermentation (TF) and gut-filtrate treated fermentation (GFTF). Anti-nutrients tested for were; alkaloids, phytate, tannins, saponins and flavonoids. All proximate contents varied significantly (P<0.05), except for ash. Afzelia africana fermented with cow gut filtrate poised the highest protein (19.35%), ash (4.20%) and lipid (32.13%) contents. The effects of cow gut filtrate fermentation on the nutritional status of A. Africana seed was only apparently (P>0.05) more pronounced than those of the natural fermentation. Fermentation significantly (P<0.05) increased the proximate nutrients except for nitrogen free extracts; which it reduced significantly. Fermentation also increased all anti-nutrients composition of the seeds except for phytate content. Fermentation significantly (P<0.05) enhanced crude protein by 30.45% for NF, 39.31% for GFTF and crude lipid by 77.64% for TF and 99.56% for GTFT. Thus fermenting Afzelia africana seed for aquaculture purpose is advocated for owing to its ability to enhance crude protein and crude lipid, not forgetting its medicinal potential due to its enhanced phytochemical levels.
Effect of enzyme supplementation and plant extracts on villus height and microbial counts in broilers
Authors: Ofongo R. T. S. , Ohimain E. I.
Published: February 2021

Due to issues concerning antimicrobial resistance, the use of antibiotics in poultry and pigs has been restricted in many countries. The research focus is now on suitable and readily available alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters. Alternatives such as probiotic, prebiotic, synbiotic, enzymes and acidifiers are being utilized while Phyto biotics (plant extracts) are also considered as viable alternatives. In this study, leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica (neem) and Vernonia amygdylina (bitter leaf) were administered through drinking water, while enzyme (Roxazyme G2 G ®) was  supplemented in the feed of different groups of broiler birds which were randomly allocated to three treatments and a control in triplicates of ten birds per replicate. The control group did not receive either plant extract in water or enzyme in their diet. On day 42, the chickens were slaughtered; the digesta was gently collected from the ileum and caecum for microbial analysis, while histological analysis was carried on the empty ileum for the determination of villus height. Data collected for microbial analysis was log transformed before statistical analysis and was stated as Log colony forming unit/g of digesta sample (Log cfu/g). The highest villus height was recorded for enzyme treatment (0.955mm) followed by bitter leaf (0.717mm), and least for neem leaf (0.592 mm) with 0.656 mm for the control. Enzyme supplementation, bitter leaf and neem leaf extract administration had no significant effect (p>0.05) on villus height. However,villus height recorded for enzyme supplementation and administration of bitter leaf extract was numerically higher than the control group. The population of total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) in the ileum was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the control group (9.28 Log cfu/g) than enzyme supplementation (8.52 Log cfu/g) and administration of leaf extract. The least value was recorded was recorded with bitter leaf (7.94 Log cfu/g). A value of 8.14 Log cfu/g was recorded with neem extract in drinking water. Total coliform was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the control (7.33 Log cfu/g) than in enzyme (6.00 Log cfu/g), neem leaf (4.74 Log cfu/g) and bitter leaf (4.84 Log cfu/g) treatments. The population of enteropathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella) was also significantly reduced (p< 0.05) by enzyme supplementation and administration of neem leaf and bitter leaf extracts in the ileum. The THB and total coliform counts (Log cfu/g) was significantly (p<0.05) reduced by enzyme supplementation, neem leaf and bitter leaf extract in the caecum also. In conclusion, the results of the current study showed that the leaf extracts and enzyme supplementation significantly decreased the number of enteropathogenic bacteria in the ileum and caecum. Although there was no significant impact on villi height, but numerical difference in villi height were recorded.
Dry matter intake, nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance of WAD sheep fed ensiled maize stover and concentrate supplement
Authors: Amuda A. J. , Onaleye K. J. , Babayemi O. J.
Published: February 2021

A study on effect of ensiled maize stover (EMS) and protein concentrate supplement (CS) on nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance of ensiled maize stover (EMS) and concentrate supplement (CS) by West African Dwarf ewe was carried out. were showed Fifteen West African dwarf ewe with body weight of 14-16 kg allotted to individual metabolic cage in completely randomized design after preliminary feeding trial. The treatments were: A (75% EMS + 25% CS), B (50% EMS + 50% CS), C (25% EMS + 75% CS), D (100%EMS) and E (100% CS). The digestibility study lasted for seven days to determine dry matter digestibility, nutrients digestibility and nitrogen retention of WAD ewe fed ensiled maize stover and concentrate supplement. Results that dry matter intake (DMI), digestible crude protein (DCP), digestible crude fibre (DCF), digestible nitrogen free extract (DNFE), and total digestible nutrients (TDN) ranged from 321.65- 694.41gDM/day, 3.99 - 12.30%, 7.32 - 17.23%, 33.35 – 38.85% and 63.65 – 70.92%, respectively. Dry matter intake of ewe fed sole ensiled maize stover (diet D) was lowest (321.65gDM/day) while animals on diet C (25% EMS+75%CS) had the highest (694.41gDM/d). Apparent digestibility of CP was lowest (3.99%) in ewe fed sole EMS and highest (12.20%) in ewe fed diet C (25% EMS + 75% CS). Positive N-balance was observed for all the five diets, but it was highest (P< 0.05) in diet B (50%+50%) and lowest in diet D (100% EMS). Similarly, N-retention was highest (67.15%) in diet B and lowest (27.61%) in diet D. Therefore, diet made up of 50% ensiled maize stover and 50% concentrate is recommended for sheep production.
Vaginal mucus resistivity and intenseness of vulva discharge: Dis-Uniformity in trends had zero effect on conception following multiple insemination in Ovsynchtreated Bunaji Cows
Authors: Leigh O. O. , Agbugba L. C. , Ibiam A. E. , Oyewunmi A. O.
Published: February 2021

Vaginal mucus resistivity (VMR) and intenseness of vulva discharge (IVD) in 28 Bunaji cows subjected to multiple inseminations at 8th and 16th hours following ovulation synchronization were investigated. Cows were fed silage and crushed elephant grass with clean water provided ad libitum. The VMR and IVD were evaluated using Draminski® bovine oestrous probe and visual observation, respectively. The difference between the total mean VMR(Ohms) at 8th and 16th hours (358.88±239.15 and 343.88± 30.04) was not significant (P>0.05). During 8th to 16th -hour, 60% and 40% of cows showed rising and declining VMR values, respectively. At the 8th and 16th hours, 60% and 40% of the cows had mean VMR that was lower and higher than the total hour-mean values, respectively. At these same hours, 28.57% and 28.57%, 71.43% and 42.86% as well as 0% and 28.57% of cows had copious,moderate and scant vulva discharges, respectively. All cows were positive for 30-day nonreturn to estrus, caruncular enlargements as well as fetal parts were also palpable at 90-day pregnancy check. We conclude that though, dis-uniformity occurred in vaginal mucus resistivity as well as intenseness of vulva discharge trends between inseminations at the 8thand 16th hours following Ovsynch treatment, this had zero effect on conception and pregnancy establishment in the cows.
Nigerian Fulani ecotype chickens - I – Growth performance under two production systems
Authors: Sanusi A. R. , Oseni S. O.
Published: February 2021

The rearing of indigenous chickens is an integral part of the smallholder farming systems in  developing countries, where they are kept by the rural poor to satisfy multiple functions Thus,  the growth performance of Nigerian Fulani ecotype chicken (NFEC) under intensive and  pastured poultry production systems was evaluated. Two hundred, day-old chicks of Nigerian  Fulani ecotype chicken (NFEC) were obtained. The chickens were separated randomly to  intensive and pastured poultry production systems at 12 weeks of age. Data on body weight  were taken weekly from day-old to 20 weeks. Data were analyzed using PROC GLM of SAS at statistical significance level of P<0.05. Results showed significant effect of sex of chicken  th th from the 10 to the 20 week of age (P<0.05). Significant interaction effect was observed  between sex and production system at weeks 16 and 18 (P<0.05) when the male chickens  under the intensive production system outpaced their male counterparts in the pastured  poultry. Average daily gain for the period of 20 weeks was 6.83g and 9.21g for female and  male chickens, respectively. Weight gain pattern across weeks was not uniform. There was no  significant difference in the growth rate in the two production systems (P>0.05). The study  revealed that little disparity exists in growth performance of NFEC under the pastured and  deep-litter production systems.
Growth performance of weaner rabbits fed graded levels of plantain leaf
Authors: Enyenihi G. E. , Inyang U. A. , Ime J. E.
Published: February 2021

The potentials of non-conventional resources are great as they play an important role inalleviating the problem of cost and competition of conventional feed sources for livestock and poultry in Nigeria. This study aimed at investigating the growth performance of weaner rabbits fed graded levels of plantain leaf (PL). Thirty mixed bred rabbits aged 6-8 weeks old with an average weight of 0.70 ± 0.02 kg were randomly allotted to five experimental treatments of three replicates each in a completely randomized design. Treatments consisted of T1 – concentrate alone (control), T2 – T5 had 25g, 50g, 75g and 100g of PL respectively. Proximate composition of the feed were carried out while initial weight, final weight, feed intake, feed conversion and weight gain were measured. Results revealed that the crude protein and crude fibre contents of the concentrate and PL recorded 19.30% and 9.97% vs 0.98% and 8.11% respectively. Initially weight ranged from 0.65kg – 0.76kg. Rabbits on T2 recorded the least final weight (0.98kg) which was similar to those on T4 (1.05kg) and T3 (1.10kg) but lower (P<0.05) than those on T5 and T1 (1.32kg and 1.38kg respectively). Rabbits on T5 recorded the highest intake of PL (83.72g/d) while those on T2 had the least (21.04g/d). Weight gain was highest (0.68kg), for rabbits on T1 but least for those on T2 (0.23 kg). The feed conversion ratio ranged from 4.65 (T1) to 14.85 (T4). Rabbits were able to tolerate the plantain leaf meal up to 100g. In addition, rabbits on 100g/day plantain leaf performed comparably with those on control.
Response of grower rabbits fed diet containing boiled sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa l.) Seed meal on performance growth characteristics
Authors: Aliyu A. M. , Duru S. , Bawa G. S.
Published: February 2021

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of grower rabbits fed sorrel seed (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) meal. Thirty grower rabbits were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments containing the control diet, raw seed diet and boiled sorrel seeds in already boiled water for 15, 30 and 45 minutes. Completely randomized design was used with six rabbits per treatment and two rabbits per replicate. Parameters evaluated were average feed intake, average weight gain, feed conversion ratio, final body weight, feed cost/kg gain and Mortality. The result of the experiment showed that there was significant difference (P<0.05) in average daily feed intake but no significant (P>0.05) differences in final body weight gain, daily weight gain, total feed intake, feed conversion ratio and feed cost/kg gain of rabbits fed diet containing sorrel seeds boiled at varying boiling duration. Feed conversion ratio was better in rabbits fed the 30 minutes boiled sorrel seed based diet (6.28) compared to rabbits fed 45 minutes boiled sorrel seed based diet (7.69). The final weight increased as boiling duration increased but later declined as boiling duration increased to 45 minutes (1360.00, 1286.67, 1293.33, 1386.67 and 1306.00g/rabbit) respectively. Feed cost/kg gain value was lower in rabbits fed diet containing boiled sorrel seeds at 30 minutes (? 600.20) compared to other treatments. Based on the result of the study, it was therefore concluded that grower rabbits could tolerate up to 15% sorrel seed meal boiled for 30 minutes in their diets
Growth performance of broiler chicks fed graded levels of processed taro cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) meal based diet
Authors: Ajetunmobi A. W. , Eguaoje S. A. , Adeniji C. A. , Omesa M. T. , Iwegbu A.
Published: February 2021

An eight-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the growth performance characteristics of (120) broiler starter fed varying levels of parboiled sundried taro cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) meal (PSCM). Four treatments were formulated with diet one containing 100% maize as control, while in diet two, three and four parboiled sundried cocoyam meal (PSCM) replaced the percentage proportion of maize in diet one at 50, 75 and 100% inclusion level respectively. Thirty (30) birds were randomly assigned to the four treatment diets in a completely randomize designed (CRD) each treatment group comprising of three replicates with ten (10) birds each. Growth performance revealed a significant variation (P<0.05) in the values of final live weight, daily feed intake and weight gain with highest value (1.62kg, 480.00g and 62.00g/bird) among those fed 50% PSCM. Feed conversion ratio (13.02) was least and best among those on 50% PSCM and protein efficiency ratio was higher (0.06) among those fed the control. It is concluded therefore from this study that parboiled sundried taro cocoyam meal is a valuable replacement for maize up to 50% in broiler diets without adverse effects on the growth performance of starting broiler chickens.
Growth performance of weaned pigs fed from different feeding troughs: comparison of concrete feeding trough, semi-automatic feeder and its combination
Authors: Adesehinwa A. O. K. , Makanjuola B. A. M. , Ajayi E. , Ogunyemi D. J. , Boladuro B. A. , Abiola J. O. , Sorunke A. O.
Published: February 2021

The study was carried out to evaluate the effect of concrete feeding trough, semi-automatic feeder and their combination on growth performance of weaned pigs. Sixty weaned cross bred (Large white x Landrace) pigs of average initial weight of 9.04 Kg were grouped based on sex and assigned to three dietary treatments, comprising two replicates of 10 weaned pigs each. The design of the experiment was completely randomized design. A standard diet was prepared to meet the nutrient requirements of weaned pigs. The diet was fed to the animals in concrete feeding trough (T1), semi-automatic feeder and concrete feeding trough (T2) and semi-automatic feeder (T3). The experiment was partitioned into three periods (Weeks 1-4, 5-8 and 1-8). Feed and water were given unrestrictedly throughout the period of the experiment. The feed intake and weights of the pigs were recorded on weekly basis. Feed conversion ratio and daily weight gain were calculated and the study lasted for eight weeks. There was no significant (P>0.05) effect of feeders on final body weight, average daily weight gain, daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. The overall performance showed that combination of the feeders (T2) improved daily weight gain (369.71 g), average daily feed intake (1021.14 g) and had the best feed conversion ratio (2.99). It could be concluded that combination of concrete feeding trough and semi-automatic feeders improved the growth performance of weaned pigs.
Growth performance and linear body measurements of gestating rabbit subjected to varying level of feed restrictions
Authors: Adeyemo A. A. , Njoku C. P. , Adeyemi O. A. , Sogunle O. M. , Bamgbose A. M.
Published: February 2021

To optimize production and ensure sustainability, there is need for judicious management of the resources employed in livestock production enterprise. For inefficient utilization of resources can jeopardize or hamper livestock production and availability. This present study was conducted to determine the performance and changes in morphological parameters of rabbit does subjected to quantitative feed restriction at different periods of gestation. A total of seventy-two rabbits does with initial live weight range of 1.7-2.0 kg were employed in this study. The study was arranged in a 3x3 factorial layout. The rabbits were divided into nine treatments of eight does per treatment and exposed to three levels of feed restrictions (0, 15, 30%) at different gestation periods (15-19, 20-24, 25-29 days). Water was supplied ad libitum throughout the experimental period. Data were collected and documented for analysis on feed intake, weight gain, changes in linear body parameters and gestation length. Significant (p<0.05) differences were noted for final weight, weight gain, feed gain, feed intake and gestation length. Restriction at 15% recorded highest final and weight gain. Longest gestation length was recorded for does on 30% restriction. Interaction between restriction and periods of gestation shows significant (p<0.05) differences in weight gain, feed gain, feed intake and gestation length. All the morphological parameters considered in this present study were not influenced (p>0.05) by restricted feeding and periods of feed restriction. Therefore, it can be concluded that 15% feed restriction could be applied at 20-24 days of gestation without any adverse effect on maternal well-being.
Dietary evaluation of starter broiler chicks fed cooked cocoyam tuber meal (xanthosoma sagitifolium) as energy source in place of maize
Authors: Anyaegbu B. C. , Onunkwo D. N. , Igwe G. , Nathaniel J. , Nkwo C. M.
Published: February 2021

Considering the inherent attributes of tannia cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagitifolium) its appropriate utilization may enhance performance of starter broiler chicks. This study was therefore carried out to determine the dietary evaluation of starter broiler chicks fed cooked cocoyam tuber meal as energy source in place of maize. The cooked cocoyam tuber meal was used to replace maize at various levels of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% respectively for diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 to determine the best replacement level that would give optimal performance in starter broiler chicks' diets. Result of the proximate composition of cooked cocoyam tuber meal showed that it contained 13.11% moisture, 2.60% ash, 1.85% ether extract, 3.90% crude protein, 9.45% crude fibre, 70.13% nitrogen free extract and 3004.37 Kcal/kgME. 150 day old Anak broiler chicks were used for the experiment. They were divided into 5 treatment groups of 30 broiler chicks each. Each treatment group was subdivided into 3 replicates of 10 broiler chicks each and kept in deep litter. Each starter diet was fed to a group of 30 starter broilers for 4 weeks using completely randomized design. They were given feed and water adlibitum. Parameters measured include initial body weight, final body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and economics of production. In the starter broiler feeding trial, the starter broilers on 25% cooked cocoyam meal compared favourably with the control (P> 0.05) in terms of feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio and significantly (P > 0.05) performed between than those on 100% CCYM. The cost of production (N/Kg broiler) was however cheapest for diet 2 (25% CCYM) N395 versus control diet (N494.28). It was therefore concluded that cooked cocoyam tuber meal (Xanthosoma sagitifolium) could be used in the diets of starter broiler chicks' up to 25% without affecting the body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio as indicated in this study.
Enrichment strategy of object combination on the behaviour of growing pigs
Authors: Famakinwa A. A. , Adebiyi O. A. , Bankole T. O. , Idahosa P. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out to determine the effect of object combination as environmental enrichment on behaviour of growing pigs. Thirty-six (36) crossbreed (Large White X Landrace) growing pigs with average weight of 34-36Kg were allotted randomly into four treatments, replicated three times in a completely randomized design. The four treatments were; Control (without enrichment), PRope (2 pieces of polyester rope), treatment SWood (2 pieces of soft wood) and treatment PRope+SWood (1 piece of soft wood and 1 piece of polyester rope). Behavioural observations were monitored by CCTV and recordings were made for 6 hours/day and 3days/week. At the end of the experiment, data collected includes average feed intake and average weight gain while feed conversion ratio was calculated. Likewise, behavioural observations; enrichment use, general activities, pen manipulation and pen-mate manipulation were observed. Behavioural data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) while performance data were analysed using one-way ANOVA. Performance data were significantly influenced (P<0.05) by enrichments for all the parameters measured. PRope+SWood had the highest value for the final weight (50.63kg), average weight gain (15.95kg) and average feed intake (56.61kg) while PRope had the highest FCR 4.18). Penmate manipulation (10.48%), pen manipulation (19.02%) and general activities (14.62%) were lower and significantly better for PRope+SWood compared to PRope and SWood and the highest interaction with enrichment objects was observed in the PRope+SWood (55.88%). It can be concluded that the use of combination of enrichment objects enhanced the performance and behaviour of pigs.
Fodder bank establishment and management for dry season maintenance of small scale livestock industry: A review
Authors: Kubkomawa H. I. , Kenneth–Chukwu A. M. , Krumah J. L. , Yerima I. N. , Audu Z. , Nafarnda W. D.
Published: February 2021

The objective of this study therefore, was to review fodder bank establishment and management for dry season supplementary feeding of livestock. Fodder banking involves fencing, planting, concentrating, storing and reserving of forage legumes in hays and silos to which concentrates, mineral and vitamin premixes are added. In addition, legume trees and shrubs such as Acacia spp, Leucaena leucocephala, Mangifera indica, Musa spp, Cajanus cajan, Tamarindus indica, Stylosanthes guianensis, Centrosema pubescens, Desmodium spp etc. are also good fodder crops which are commonly used. Fodder bank converts the above mentioned crops into supplementary or fall back forage kept in small to large plots for dry season use by aging, ailing, nursing, and lactating and high producing animals. The relatively deep roots of these woody perennials allow them to reach soil nutrients and moisture not available to grasses and herbaceous plants. This characteristic enables these plants to retain fresh foliage into the dry season. The ability of some legumes to fix atmospheric nitrogen makes them protein rich feeds. As with all tree planting activities, fodder bank establishment must be planned to coincide with the rainy season. This ensures high seed emergence, plant survival and establishment. Good site selection is paramount, accompanied with thorough land preparation for excellent establishment of fodder banks. These processes are accomplished by mechanical or chemical means. Methods practiced locally for other high value crops are also often used. The goal is a wider seed-bed, in which plant growth and survival will be maximized.
Beef cattle housing and handling techniques in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Kubkomawa H. I. , Kenneth–Chukwu A. M. , Krumah J. L. , Yerima I. N. , Audu Z. , Nafarnda W. D.
Published: February 2021

The objective of the study was to survey beef cattle housing and handling techniques in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria in order to make room for improvement to ensure their welfare. One hundred (100) beef producers were randomly selected for oral interviews, discussion and physical observations on beef cattle housing and handling techniques. This was achieved by the use of structured questionnaire for the period of 12 months (January to December, 2018). All beef cattle producers (100%) use make shift kraals or fenced yards without roofs, while 90% use local handling equipment for the business in the study area. The use of elaborate housing and conventional equipment is limited in the study area. Though producers know that, well designed and maintained handling facilities are essential for the safe handling of beef cattle and prevention of injury to handlers. Good cattle handling facilities provide high level of control and safe access for the various husbandry tasks. Many accidents involving cattle could be eliminated with better handling facilities. Knowing the correct procedure is  important for both the animals and handlers as handlers are susceptible to injuries.
Sexual differentiation and phenotypic correlations among biometric traits of Nigerian local turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)
Authors: Adeoye A. A. , Udoh J. E. , Oladepo A. D.
Published: February 2021

One- hundred and twenty-four (124) Nigerian local turkeys at six months of age were used for this study. The turkeys were raised from day old in a commercial farm located at Ibadan and data were collected on growth traits to determine the effect of sex and phenotypic correlations among growth traits. Highest coefficient of variation was observed in body weight in both male (9.95 %) and female (15.74 %) while the least (5.71%) was observed for wing span in female and 4.95% for body length in male. Sex had significant effect (p<0.05) on all the variables in favour of male. The body weight, shank length, thigh length, body length, wing length, wing span and breast girth for males were 3.80 kg, 9.01 cm, 21.68 cm, 63.00 cm, 32.44 cm, 72.86 cm and 40.17 cm, respectively, while the corresponding values for female were 2.93 kg, 7.27 cm, 17.96 cm, 55.37 cm, 28.18 cm, 63.92 cm and 36.14 cm. The correlation coefficients between body weight and the linear measurements in the two sexes were positive and mostly significant in male. It ranged between 0.291 and 0.561 in male and 0.233 and 0.721 in female. Sexual dimorphism was obvious in all the traits considered in favour of male. The positive correlations between body weight and the linear body measurements in the two sexes means improvement in any of the traits will lead to improvement in the body weight.
Effect of body weight at first mating on reproductive performance of rabbit does
Authors: Ayo-Ajasa O. Y. , Egbeyale L.T. , Adewole F. A. , Ekunseitan D. A. , Babalola O. A.
Published: February 2021

Eighteen mature nulliparous rabbit does with initial body weight between 1600g-2500g were used to evaluate the effect of body weight at first mating on reproductive performance of rabbit does. These rabbits were assigned into three treatments, with T1, T2 and T3 weighing (1600-1900), (1901-2200) and (2201-2500) respectively. The study lasted for 5weeks. The does were mated with buck at ratio 1:3. The reproductive parameters evaluated were number of does that kindled, litter size at birth, breeding efficiency, litter size at weaning, pre-weaning loss. All data collected were subjected to descriptive statistical representation. The highest number of kindled does was 5 in T2 and T3; T1 had the lowest number (3). Breeding efficiency of 83.33% was recorded in T1 and T2 while T3 had 50.00%. T3 had highest average birth weight (49.51g) and T2 had the least (41.51g); litter size at birth and weaning ranged from 18 -28kits and 15-24kits, respectively. T2 does recorded highest value in both parameters, T3 does recorded same value (28kits) for litter size at birth. Highest pre-weaning loss of 7kits was recorded from does in T3 while T1 and T2 recorded 4kits. It was therefore concluded that does with weight range 1901g – 2200g had better reproductive performance with highest breeding efficiency and lower pre-weaning loss.
Assessment of spline functions for estimating growth curve parameters of FUNAABAlpha chickens
Authors: Bashiru H. A. , Oseni S. O. , Omadime L. A.
Published: February 2021

The objective of this study was to fit four spline linear regression models to describe the growth of FUNAAB-Alpha Chickens (FAC). Body weight records of 300 FAC raised from day old till the 20th week were used to fit spline models of 3 (SP3), 4 (SP4), 5 (SP5) and 6 knots (SP6) using the REG procedure of SAS®. The data were first plotted to determine the most appropriate location of knots and they were placed at 4th, 10 th and 16 th week of age for SP3; 4th, 8th, 12th and 16th week for SP4; 4th, 7th, 10th, 14th and 18th week for SP5 and 3rd, 6th, 9th, 12th, 15 th and 18 th week for SP6, respectively. The hatch weight predicted by SP3 was observed to be highest while SP6 predicted the lowest hatch weight for male and female FAC. Regression coefficients ranged from -38.47 to 47.46 and -39.40 to 40.47 for the male and female, respectively. For all the models, the highest magnitude of these coefficients were estimated at early ages after hatching (at 3 to 10 weeks of age). Based on Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) as the goodness-of-fit selection criteria, SP3 had the lowest value for AIC and BIC for male FAC while SP4 had the lowest value of AIC and BIC for the female FAC. It was concluded that spline models of lower knots (SP3 and SP4) were the best fit to describe the growth of male and female FAC respectively, and that growth rate at early stages of life of FAC may be good predictors of later growth performance.
Chemical constituents and in-vitro rumen fermentation for dietary inclusion of Delonix regia seed meal for sustainable ruminant production
Authors: Lamidi A. A. , Wilson J. I. , Joseph O. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to assess the chemical composition and in-vitro digestibility for dietary inclusion of Delonix regia seeds meal (DSM) for sustainable ruminant production. Four experimental treatments were formulated and DSM was included and varied as T1 (35/0%), T2 (20/15%), T3 (15/20%) and T4 (0/35%), respectively, each treatment were replicated and analyzed for the proximate composition and in-vitro analysis. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the nutrients and fiber fractions (CP, EE, ash, OM, NFE, NDF, ADF and hemicellulose) across the experimental treatments as CP ranged between 10.50 – 13.60% and decreased with inclusion of DSM. The NFE, NDF and hemicelluloses were similar (P>0.05) in T1 and T4. In-vitro analysis indicated that the methane gas volume was significantly (P<0.05) influenced with the dietary inclusion of DSM across the experimental treatments as T2 had the highest volume of CH (0.61mL) while the least was recorded for T1 (0.47 mL). There was no significant difference (P>0.05) for 24hrs gas production, CH percentage, CH reduction percentage, in-vitro dry matter digestibility (IDMD), in-vitro organic matter digestibility (IOMD), metabolizable energy and fermentation efficiency across the treatments. Conclusively, the nutrients profile of the experimental treatments justifies the utilization of DSM for sustainable ruminant production. Similarity in post in-vitro parameters across treatments is an indication that inclusion of DSM will go a long way to resolve the challenges of feed and feeding for ruminant production.
Prospects in the utilization of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) towards improved cattle production in Nigeria
Authors: Oguejiofor C. F.
Published: February 2021

Cattle production and the beef and dairy industry are important sources of financial revenue for the government and the individual farmers and employees involved in livestock husbandry. Nigeria has a huge potential for cattle production but sadly this has been poorly developed. The estimated national cattle population of 19 million is grossly inadequate in meeting the national human demand for meat, milk and other cattle products or in contributing to the gross domestic product. The low cattle productivity is partly attributable to the poor utilization of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in dairy and beef cattle breeding and production. These technologies generally include oestrus synchronization, artificial insemination (AI), multiple-ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET), in vitro fertilization (IVF), sex determination, cloning and genetic engineering. ART have been applied extensively in the yearly production of millions of cattle in many developed and developing countries worldwide. This review highlights the applications and potentials of ART in cattle production and suggests how stakeholders in the Nigerian cattle industry can exploit these potentials. It is clear that the utilization of ART will enhance national livestock productivity so that Nigeria can feed her growing population and possibly increase her foreign exchange earnings by becoming a livestock-exporting country.
Carcass traits and internal organs of broiler chickens as influenced by coffee weed (Senna occidentalis) leaf ethanolic extract
Authors: Omoikhoje S. O. , Okooza M. O. , Okeje R. O. , Peter-Paul F. E.
Published: February 2021

Carcass traits and internal organs of one hundred and twenty, one day-old broiler chicksmaintained on different dosages of coffee weed leaf ethanolic extract for eight weeks werestudied. Five dosages (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100mL) of coffee weed leaf ethanolic extract(CWLEE) per litre of drinking water (T1 T2 , T3 , T4 and T5 ) were used. The birds were allocated \to the various treatment groups in a completely randomized design (CRD) with each treatment replicated three times (8 birds per replicate). Data on carcass traits revealed that live weight (2.50kg/bird), defeathered (2.30kg/bird) and eviscerated (2.00kg/bird) weights as well as dressing percentage (81.69%) were significantly (P<0.5) higher among birds on 50mL of CWLEE compared to those on other treatment groups. Similarly, the relative weights of drumstick (16.60%) and thigh (22.28%) were also significantly (P<0.05) better in broiler chickens administered 50mL CWLEE. Relative organ weights of broiler showed that weight of heart, lungs, gizzard, bursa, spleen and kidney were significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by the treatments. It is therefore inferred that birds administered 50mL CWLEE gave better carcass quality and functioning of the vital organs and therefore can be recommended for broiler chickens.
PENDUGAAN MODEL PARTISIPASI EKONOMI MASYARAKAT PROVINSI JAMBI DENGAN METODE ANALISIS REGRESI LOGISTIK BINER
Authors: Kholijah Gusmi
Published: February 2021

Kesejahteraan ekonomi masih belum merata di Indonesia. Hal ini masih menjadi masalah dalam mengatasi kemiskinan. Banyak usaha yang sudah dilakukan dalam pengentasan kemiskinan, salah satunya meningkatkan partisipasi ekonomi. Partisipasi ekonomi dapat dikategorikan atas bekerja dan tidak bekerja. Partisipasi ekonomi merupakan variabel respon yang dipengaruhi oleh beberapa variabel prediktor. Hubungan antara variabel prediktor dengan variabel respon yang berbentuk kategori biner dapat dianalisis dengan regresi logistik biner. Model yang dihasilkan dari penelitian ini menyampaikan bahwa  masyarakat yang tinggal di perdesaan lebih memiliki partisipasi ekonomi dibanding dengan di perkotaan. Lalu status perkawinan dengan kategori kawin, cerai hidup lebih memiliki berpartisipasi ekonomi dibanding dengan cerai mati, dan yang cerai mati lebih berperan lagi dibanding dengan yang belum kawin. Selanjutnya laki-laki lebih berpartisipasi ekonomi dibanding dengan perempuan. Lalu jika dilihat dari usia, menunjukkan usia produktif kerja lebih memiliki partisipasi ekonomi, kemudian semakin tinggi tingkat pendidikan maka memberikan kontribusi terhadap partisipasi ekonomi semakin tinggi.
Penalaran Kuantitatif Siswa SMA dalam Menyelesaikan Soal HOTS
Authors: Aprilaksono Guntur
Published: February 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan penalaran kuantitatif siswa SMA dalam menyelesaikan soal HOTS. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di kelas X MIPA 2 SMA Muhammadiyah 3 Tulangan pada semester genap tahun ajaran 2019/2020. Subjek penelitian ini adalah 3 siswa dari kelas X MIPA 2 SMA Muhammadiyah 3 Tulangan yang terdiri dari 1 siswa berkemampuan matematika tinggi, 1 siswa berkemampuan matematika sedang, dan 1 siswa berkemampuan matematika rendah. Instrumen dalam penelitian dengan pendekatan kualitatif ini menggunakan soal tes dan wawancara. Data yang diperoleh kemudian dianalisis dengan menggunakan triangulasi waktu dengan membandingkan data waktu pertama dengan waktu kedua. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa di antara ketiga siswa yang memiliki kemampuan matematika berbeda, hanya siswa berkemampuan matematika tinggi yang mampu menggunakan berbagai teknik yang dapat digunakan untuk memecahkan masalah (misalnya, menggambar gambar, menggunakan rumus, menyelesaikan persamaan).dan hanya siswa berkemampuan matematika sedang yang mampu menentukan batasan masalah
Short communication: Inverse isochron regression for Re–Os, K–Ca
and other chronometers
Authors: Li Yang , Vermeesch Pieter
Published: February 2021

Abstract. Conventional Re–Os isochrons are based on mass spectrometric estimates of 187Re / 188Os and 187Os / 188Os. 188Os is usually far less abundant, and is therefore measured less precisely, than 187Os and 187Re. This causes strong error correlations between the two isochron ratios, which may obscure potentially important geological complexity. Using an approach that is widely accepted in 40Ar / 39Ar and U–Pb geochronology, we here show that these error correlations are greatly reduced by applying a simple change of variables, using 187Os as a common denominator. Plotting 188Os / 187Os vs. 187Re / 187Os produces an inverse isochron, defining a binary mixing line between an inherited Os-component whose 188Os / 187Os-ratio is given by the vertical intercept, and the radiogenic 187Re / 187Os-ratio, which corresponds to the horizontal intercept. Inverse isochrons facilitate the identification of outliers and other sources of data dispersion. They can also be applied to other geochronometers such as the K–Ca method and (with less dramatic results) the Rb–Sr, Sm–Nd and Lu–Hf methods. The generalised inverse isochron method has been added to the IsoplotR toolbox for geochronology, which automatically converts conventional isochron ratios into inverse ratios and vice versa.
Considering time in climate justice
Authors: Bopp Judith , Bercht Anna Lena
Published: February 2021

Abstract. Time shapes every single human–environment relationship and is inherent in
21st-century global challenges such as climate change and the urgent move
towards global sustainability. Nonetheless, the concept of time is still
insufficiently addressed in climate justice debates. This paper aims to help
fill this gap by presenting empirical results about experiences of climate
change in farming communities in Tamil Nadu, South India, and fishing
communities on the Lofoten Islands, Norway. With the help of the five
dimensions of affectedness, rhythms and rituals, slow motion, care, and
health and well-being, it exemplifies how time matters to issues of climate
injustices faced by the communities. The paper promotes a qualitative
understanding of time and climate change. Thereby, it may stimulate greater
relatability to climate change, as well as discussion likely to lead to
conceptual advances.