bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive performance of intensively managed primiparous gravid West African Dwarf goats fed pulverized bio-fibre waste-based diets
Authors: Ibhaze G. A.
Published: February 2021

The feed intake and reproductive performance of intensively managed West African dwarf (WAD) gravid does were investigated. Twelve does weighing 11.90-13.05kg were used for the study. The does were fed on pulverized maize-cob based diets; maize-cob/cassava peel (PMC/CsP), maize-cob/brewers' grain (PMC/BG), and maize-cob/cassava peel/brewers' grain (PMC/CsP/BG). The does were allotted to the three dietary treatments such that four individually housed animals, each serving as a replicate and were also fed with concentrate diet at 1% of their body weight. Oestrus was synchronized in the does using 1mL/10kg of Prostaglandin –Fα intramuscularly. Animals were mated with a proven buck. Dams were evaluated in a pregnancy trial while the kids born were evaluated in a pre-weaning growth trial. Dams were weighed at mating and fortnightly until kidding. Variables investigated were; feed intake, dam weight at mating, prior and after parturition, gestation length, weight gained during pregnancy, kid's birth and weaning weights, kid's daily weight gain, sex ratio. Feed intake revealed that does fed PMC/CsP recorded the highest total dry matter intake (TDMI) throughout the three trimesters (727.16, 832.85 and 637.08g/day) when compared to 339.38, 52.18 and 401.03g/day obtained for does fed PMC/BG. Weight gained was significantly (P<0.05) higher in does on PMC/CsP. Mean birth weight, weaning weight and daily weight gain were higher for kids whose dams were fed PMC/CsP/BG. It can therefore be concluded that diets used in this study may serve as alternative feed for gravid goats while goats fed PMC/CsP/BG had better reproductive performance.
Effect of organic acid treated diets on growth, apparent nutrient digestibility and faecal moisture of broiler chickens
Authors: Ndelekwute E. K , Assam E. D , Ekere P. C , Ufot U. E.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of four organic acids (acetic, butyric, citric and formic acids) inclusion in the diets of broilers on growth, nutrient digestibility and faecal moisture. One hundred and fifty one day old Arbor-Acre - plus chicks were used. There were five dietary treatments. Basal diet which served as control contained no organic acid was formulated, while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively contained 0.25% acetic, butyric, citric and formic acids formed by adding 0.25% of each acid to the basal diet. Each treatment was replicated three times with 10 birds per replicate, arranged in completely randomized design (CRD). Diets were both isocaloric and isonitrogenous. The experiment lasted for 4 from the fourth to the eight week. Feed and water were given ad libitum. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in live weight, daily gain, feed intake, feed: gain ratio and protein efficiency ratio. Acetic acid significantly (P<0.05) increased water intake. Fecal moisture was significantly reduced by citric and butyric acids. Higher crude protein digestibility was achieved by butyric acid (69.98%) citric (69.67%) and formic acid (71.33%) than the control (63.75%). Digestibility of CF, EE and ash was significantly (P<0.05) higher in all the organic acid groups. Feeding of diets treated with 0.25% of the test organic acids at the finisher phase, in that despite improved digestibility of nutrients the practice should not be encouraged for reasons of insignificant growth performance.
Performance and carcass characteristics of weaner pigs fed dietary raw bambara nut offal
Authors: Okah U , Ubochi K.C , Uzoma P. O.
Published: February 2021

A 56-day feeding trial using twelve (12) crossbred weaner pigs of 8 weeks of age and average weight of 10.58±0.17kg were used to investigate the effect of different dietary levels of raw bambara groundnut offal on their growth and carcass characteristics. Four diets were formulated to contain raw bambara groundnut offal at 0, 10, 20 and 30%, designated T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. The weaner pigs were randomly assigned to the four (4) diets in a 3 4 completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. Chemical composition of the test ingredient and diets were analysed. Data collected include feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER) and economics of production. The carcass characteristics were also evaluated. The proximate composition of the experimental diets revealed that the crude protein and ether extract contents of the diets decreased with increased levels of raw BGO in the diets, but the converse was true for crude fibre and ash contents. The results indicated significant differences (p< 0.05) in daily weight gain (DWG), feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, cost (N) /kg of feed and cost (N)/kg weight gain. The values were, 0.34, 0.29, 0.28 and 0.22kg for DWG, 3.03, 3.62, 3.55, and 4.30 for FCR in T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Protein efficiency ratio, values were 1.84, 1.54, 1.57 and 1 2 3 4 1.29. Cost /kg of feed values were 75.69, 70.13, 64.56 and 56.10, and cost (N)/kg weight gain were 229.32, 253.86, 229.20 and 253.69 for the treatments respectively. The results of the carcass evaluation indicated significant differences (p< 0.05) for ham and trotters. The values were 0.31, 0.35, 0.37 and 0.32 for ham in T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. The values of trotters were, 64.6, 56.99, 56.98 and 53.66 among the treatments. For organs characteristics, the results indicated significant differences (p< 0.05) for lung, kidney, liver and spleen. The values of the lungs were, 11.20, 11.25, 9.40 and 8.97 among the treatments. The values of kidney and liver were, 3.34, 2.86, 3.72 and 3.14, and 24.28, 28.57, 22.55 and 27.70 respectively. The inclusion of up to 20% raw BGO in the diet of weaner pigs recorded comparable daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio and cost/kg weight gain with the group fed the control (0% raw BGO). Further studies involving heat treatment of the BGO might be necessary to improved nutrient utilization by the animals, and also increase inclusion level.
Evaluation of Carcass and Non-carcass Characteristics of West African Dwarf Rams Fed Bambusa vulgaris Leaves with Neem Seed Cake and Guinea Grass
Authors: Okoruwa M. I. , Okoh P. I , Ikhimioya I.
Published: February 2021

Eighteen West African Dwarf rams balanced for weight (8.00 ± 0.20kg) were fed with Bambusa vulgaris leaves with neem seed cake and guinea grass to evaluate their carcass and non-carcass characteristics. The rams were assigned to three dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with six rams per treatment. The compared dietary treatments were as follows. Diet A(70% guinea grass and 30% concentrate diet); diet B(mixture of 50% Bambusa vulgaris leaves with 20% neem seed cake and 30% concentrate diet) and diet C(combination of 45% Bambusa vulgaris leaves with 25% neem seed and 30% concentrate diet). The results showed that diet A was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in average total feed intake (11.13kg), chilling losses (15.04%) and rumen / reticulum (2.04%) than diets B and C. Slaughter weight (11.33kg), empty body weight (10.32kg), hot and cold carcass weights (6.01 & 5.54kg), hot and cold carcass yield (53.05 & 48.90%), true yield (58.24%), liver (2.01%), kidneys (1.12%) and lungs (1.35%) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in diet B than diet A or C. No significant difference (P > 0.05) observed in initial body weight, heart, spleen, omasum, abomasums, blood, skin and head among the treatment diets. It could be concluded that mixture of 50% Bambusa vulgaris leaves with 20% neem seed cake and 30% concentrate diet has the potential to improve carcass and non-carcass characteristics of West African Dwarf rams.
Energy utilization for body weight gain of ram-lambs fed differently processed breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) meal in total mixed rations.
Authors: Okoruwa M. I
Published: February 2021

The study was carried out to estimate the energy utilization for body weight gain in West African dwarf ram-lambs fed differently processed breadfruit meal in total mixed rations. Twenty non-castrated ram-lambs, about 7months of age with an average-initial body weight of 6.00 ± 0.55kg, were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments with five ram-lambs per treatment group in a completely randomized design. Ficus foliage with differently processed breadfruit meals and concentrate diet were used as treatment diets. Diet A (50% unpeeled raw breadfruit meal +20% Ficus foliage + 30% concentrate diet) B (50% peeled raw breadfruit +20% Ficus foliage + 30% concentrate diet), C (50% unpeeled soaked breadfruit meal +20% Ficus foliage + 30% concentrate diet) and D (50% unpeeled boiled breadfruit meal + 20% Ficus foliage + 30% concentrate diet). Results showed that faecal energy output (999.41MJ/g/day DM) was significantly (P< 0.05) highest in treatment diet Acompared with other treatment diets. Ram-lambs on treatment diets B and C had the significantly highest (P < 0.05) on digestible energy intake (1310.84 and 1295.62 MJ/g/day DM), metabolizable energy intake (1074.89 and 1062.41MJ/g/day DM), average total weight gain (4.18 and 4.13kg) and average daily weight gain (87.08 and 86.04g) compared with treatment diets A and D. Gross energy intake (4503.00MJ/g/day), average total feed intake (13.68kg), average daily feed intake (285.00g) and feed conversion ratio (4.44) were significantly (P < 0.05) better in ram-lambs on treatment diet D. There were no significant (P > 0.05) differences in urinary energy loss, metabolizability and initial body weight of ram-lambs. It was therefore concluded that diets B and C enhanced efficiency of energy utilization for body weight gain of ram-lambs.
Performance and economics of production of weaner rabbits fed graded levels of sorghum sprout waste meal-based diets
Authors: Olajide R. , Azeez A.F , Alofe M.T
Published: February 2021

The effect of feeding varying dietary levels of sorghum sprout waste (SS) as substitutes for maize on performance, carcass and blood indices of rabbits was investigated. Thirty growing rabbits of nine weeks of age were allocated to 5 dietary treatments of 6 rabbits per replicate in a Complete Randomized Design experiment which lasted 56 days. The diets were formulated with 0 (control), 25, 50, 75 and 100% SS as substitutes weight for weight in place of maize. Results show that daily feed intake, cost per kg feed, cost of feed per kg weight gain, carcass, organs, most serological and haematological indices investigated were significantly (p<0.05) affected by dietary treatments. The trends obtained in these parameters across the treatments were not definite and not depict adverse effects on the experimental rabbits. The highest (p< 0.05) total protein, albumin, packed cell volume, red blood cells and haemoglobin values were obtained in the experimental rabbits fed 100% SS-based diets. Cost/kg feed reduced (p< 0.05) from N69.07 (€0.32), N63.95 (€0.30), N62.88 (€0.29), N59.77 (€0.28) and N55.11 (€0.25) ; and cost of feed/ kg live weight from N582.84 (€2.69), N509.04 (€2.35), N445.30 (€2.06), N433.12 (€2.00) and N403.68 (€1.86) respectively for rabbits fed 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% SS. Substitution of maize with 100% SS gave the cheapest cost of production of a kg live weight of rabbits with no deleterious effects on carcass and health depicted by normal serological and haematological values; and could be adopted by rabbits farmers to alleviate the problem of high cost of maize.
Growth performance and haematological traits of Nigerian local chickens fed varied dietary protein levels
Authors: Oleforuh-Okoleh, V. U. , Nte I. J. , Onyegbule Q.
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out to investigate the growth performance and haematological traits of Nigerian local chickens (NLC) fed varied dietary protein levels. An eleven week feeding trial was done in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement using six treatment groups comprising a combination of two genotypes of the NLC identified as normal feather (na) and naked neck (Na) and three dietary protein levels - high protein: HP (22% and 20% CP chick mash and grower mash respectively), medium protein: MP (20% and 18% chick mash and grower mash respectively) and low protein: LP (18% and 16% chick mash and grower mash). Data were collected on growth performance traits (body weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio). At the end of the feeding trial a haematological assay was done. Neither genotype nor interaction of genotype and dietary protein level influenced (p>0.05) any of the growth performance traits studied. Birds on HP ate 10.21% and 7.09% less feed than those on MP and LP respectively. A better (p<0.05) protein efficiency ratio (up to 20.79%) was observed in birds fed LP. Na birds had 4.55% and 17.50x103 L-1 more packed cell volume and platelets respectively than na birds (p<0.05). All haematological traits studied, except white blood cell count, showed significant variations (p<0.05) due to varied dietary protein levels. Higher haemoglobin, red blood cell counts, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration and platelets were observed in birds fed LP diet. Reducing the dietary protein level had no adverse effect on the NLC thus, the LP diet is recommended for raising the Nigerian local chicken.
Growth performance and blood profile of gestating WAD ewes fed dietary supplementation of ammonium sulphate
Authors: Ososanya T.O , Shehu S. A. , Inyang U.A
Published: February 2021

The concern raised as a result of antibiotic usage in the livestock industry has necessitated the need for alternative feed additives such as ammonium sulphate. Hence, sixteen West African Dwarf (WAD) ewes averaging 24 kg in weight and aged eighteen months were used to determine the growth performance and blood chemistry of ammonium sulphate supplemented diets. The animals were divided into four groups of experimental diets consisting: D1 (0%) (Control diet), D2 (0.25 %), D3 (0.50 %) and D4 (0.75 %) of ammonium sulphate (AMS) inclusion levels and were randomly allotted in a completely randomized design. They were also synchronized with prostaglandin F2a and naturally mated with four (4) rams of proven fertility when they came on heat. Parameters determined were feed intake, dry matter intake (DMI), gestating weights and gains, and blood haematology and serum biochemistry such as white blood cells (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (HGB), albumin (A), globulin (G), total protein (TP), cholesterol (CHOL), blood urea nitrogen, creatinine (C), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The results showed that supplementing AMS in ewe diets generally enhanced (p < 0.05) final weight (Kg), gestational weight gain (Kg) and average daily weight gain (g). The values ranged from 32.00 – 45.25 Kg; 8.25 – 22.25 Kg; 207.79 – 267.86 g/d respectively. The feed conversion ratio improved with increasing levels of AMS with animals on D4 recording the least (0.20). Animals on D1 recorded the highest values for PCV, HGB, and RBC while those on D3 had the least. The 6 3 values were 44.25 and 41.00 %; 14.68 and 13.40 g/dl; and 13.02 and 11.86 x 106/mm3 respectively. Animals on D4 recorded the highest values for WBC (5150.50 x 106/mm3). Serum biochemical responses of pregnant sheep indicated significant differences (p < 0.05) of AMS supplementation on TP, A/G ratio, ALP and creatinine values. Animals on D1 recorded the highest values for TP, A/G ratio; ALT, BUN and C while those on D2 were least except for ALTwhere D3 was least in ALT. The values were 8.68 and 8.15 g/dl; 0.80 and 0.65; 289 and 235.50 I.U./L; 10.75 and 9.75 mg/dl; 1.48 and 1.08 mg/dl respectively. Animals on D2 recorded the highest values for G, ALP and CHOL (4.80 mg/dl; 25.25 I.U/L; and 63.00 mg/dl respectively). Inclusion of AMS improved conversion ratio thereby improving the performance of ewes and thus proved that it could be tolerated up to 0.75 % supplementation in diets for ewes.
Performance of Laying Hens Fed Sorghum Based Diets Supplemented with Enzymes
Authors: Agunbiade O. M , Onimisi P. A , Omage J. J.
Published: February 2021

Sorghum is the primary alternative feedstuff for corn in some developed countries in the production of poultry. Thus, four hundred and fifty 32 weeks old Lohmann Brown laying hens were used in a study to evaluate the effect of replacing maize with sorghum with or without enzymes supplementation, on egg laying performance and egg quality characteristics of laying hens. Birds were distributed randomly into six dietary treatments with three replicates per treatment, each replicate had 25 birds with uniform initial group weights. The treatments included maize without enzymes (T1); sorghum without enzymes (T2); as controls respectively, while T3, T4, T5, and T6 contained sorghum based diets with phytase, protease, G2G, and a combination of protease and G2G respectively. Laying performance, cost of production, and egg quality characteristics were determined for the period of the trial, 33 -56 weeks of age of the birds. All data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance, using the completely randomized design (CRD) and significant differences among treatment means were compared using the Tukey test. Significant (p<0.05) differences were observed among dietary treatments but with no defined trend observed for egg production traits. Daily feed intake was significantly (p<0.05) higher in maize control diet compared to the other treatments. Diets supplemented with phytase (T3), protease (T4), and combination of protease and roxazyme G2G (T6) had significantly (p<0.05) better feed conversion ratio with T3 having the lowest value of 4.01 compared to the other treatments. For feed cost/dozen egg (N), Kg feed/dozen eggs, income above feed cost at N30 per egg, and income above control treatment; phytase (T3), protease (T4), roxazyme G2G (T5), and protease + roxazyme G2G (T6) diets in this study showed better performance than the control. Sorghum diet without enzyme had significantly (p<0.05) least performance for egg number, Hen housed egg production (HHP) and hen day egg production (HDP) compared to the other treatments while sorghum diet with phytase had the highest value (60.12g/day) for average egg weight compared to the other treatments. Egg quality characteristics showed the best performance for dietary treatments supplemented with phytase (T3) in all the other parameters considered, apart from the albumen height, yolk diameter, and yolk index. It was concluded therefore, that sorghum with phytase and protease supplementations can be used in layers' diets as a substitute for maize for optimum egg production.
Response of growing pigs to different evaporative cooling systems
Authors: Adebiyi O. A. , Muibi M. A.
Published: February 2021

Study was conducted for seven weeks to compare the response of growing pigs to shower and wallow cooling systems. Growing cross breeds of Landrace x Large White pigs (weight 20-25kg) were used. Treatment 1, 2 and 3 were pigs without shower/wallow (control), pigs on wallow and pigs under shower, respectively. Forty-eight pigs comprising four pigs/replicate were replicated four times to the three treatments in a completely randomized design. The shower was activated for 5 minutes every hour from 11am to 5pm. During the period, the performance response, physiological parameter, temperature humidity indexes, microbiological and behavioral response of the growing pigs were observed. Significant differences were observed in the final weight of pigs in T3 (49.50 kg) compared to pigs in T1 (46.75 kg) and T2 (46.00kg). Although, pigs in T1 had the highest significant feed intake of 14.15kg compared to 10.81 kg and 10.38 kg that were observed for pigs in T2 and T3 respectively, the feed conversion ratio of pigs in T3 (3.82) was better. The temperature humidity index in the pen suggested that the pigs were at intense heat stress, thus requiring cooling (THI ranged from 81.12 to 86.39). The respiratory rate of the pigs ranged from approximately 41 min-1 to 51-1 min while the weekly rectal temperatures ranged from 37.3°C to 39.4°C in all the treatments. The microbial analysis of the water in wallow and shower showed an increase in microbial population to be 26.0 x 104 ± 3.54 and 12.0 x 104 ±1.32 while the fungi populations were 2.0 x 104 ± 0.86 and 1.0 x 104 ± 0.57 respectively. Pigs in T1 were found to exhibit more habitual lateral lying position, increased frequency of visiting water trough and defecating in resting areas. Huddling, defecating in wallow and frequency of using wallow was predominant in T2 pigs. It can be concluded that pigs in wallows may be more predisposed to infectious diseases due to high microbial load, however, pigs under shower responded positively to cooling via improved performance
The Importance of the Measurement Infrastructure in Economic Recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:   National Physical Laboratory, Brown Richard J. C. , Auty Fiona ,   National Physical Laboratory, Renedo Eugenio , King Mike
Published: February 2021

This paper describes the many, evidenced-based benefits to the economy of a well-developed measurement infrastructure. In particular, it explains how assuring confidence in measurement may be used to accelerate economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic including in emerging sectors such as the digital economy. Recommendations are made for providing near term support for national economic recovery whilst also demonstrating the advantages of sustained development of the measurement infrastructure in the medium-term to maximize the potential of future innovative and disruptive technologies. These recommendations, whilst focused on consideration of the UK, should apply globally.
United Kingdom COVID-19 Governmental Response
Authors: S. Abdellatif Omar , Behbehani Ali , Landin Mauricio
Published: February 2021

The International Health Regulations (2005) are legally binding on 196 States Parties, Including all WHO Member States. The IHR aims to keep the world informed about public health risks, through committing all signatories to cooperate together in combating any future “illness or medical condition, irrespective of origin or source, that presents or could present significant harm to humans.” Under IHR, states agreed to strengthen their public health capacities and notify the WHO of any such illness in their populations. The WHO would be the centralized body for all countries facing a health threat, with the power to declare a “public health emergency of international concern,” issue recommendations, and work with countries to tackle a crisis. Although, with the sudden and rapid spread of COVID-19 in the world, many countries varied in implementing the WHO guidelines and health recommendations. While some countries followed the WHO guidelines, others imposed travel restrictions against the WHO’s recommendations. Some states refused to share their data with the organization. Others banned the export of medical equipment, even in the face of global shortages. The UN Compliance Research group will focus during the current cycle on analyzing the compliance of the WHO member states to the organizations guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Principal component analysis identifies different representative match load profiles in international women’s field hockey based on playing positions. [El análisis de componentes principales identifica diferentes perfiles de rendimiento en función de las posiciones en partidos internacionales de hockey hierba femenino].
Authors: Morencos Esther , Romero-Moraleda Blanca , Rico-González Markel , Rojas-Valverde Daniel , Pino-Ortega José
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to assess the principal components (PC) of women’s field hockey players´ TL distinguishing by playing positions (i.e., back, midfielder, forward). Data were collected from sixteen players belonging to the Spanish National women’s field hockey team during 13 official matches from the European Championship, World Series, and Pre-Olympic tournament. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) grouped a total of 16 variables in five to six PC, explaining between 68.6 and 80% of the total variance. Different variables formed the PC that explain the player’s performance in different field positions. There were differences by positions in the distance covered at 21 to 24 km·h-1 (midfielders>forwards), decelerations from 5 to 4 m·s-2 (midfielders>forwards), and in maximum accelerations (midfielders>backs). Overall, strength and conditioning coaches should combine exercises which induce a high degree of aerobic endurance and power. However, some specification should be made by playing position: (1) defenders should perform training sessions with at least the same amount of volume as in the matches; (2) forwards should perform training efforts that ensure high repeated sprint ability; and (3) midfielders should perform a high training volume to develop high-intensity aerobic endurance, in combination with short-term efforts.
Multi-location external workload profile in U-18 soccer players. [Perfil multi-ubicación de carga externa en jugadores de fútbol sub-18].
Authors: Gómez-Carmona Carlos David , Bastida-Castillo Alejandro , Moreno-Pérez Víctor , Ibáñez Sergio José , Pino-Ortega José
Published: February 2021

An association between accelerometer workload and injury risk has been found previously. However, any research has assessed the absorption dynamics of external workload through the measurement in different anatomical locations simultaneously. A cross-sectional study was designed to: (i) to describe the multi-joint external workload profile of youth soccer players, (ii) to identify differences between-participants related to anatomical locations, (iii) to analyze the workload dynamics at different speeds at joints and body segments, (iv) to characterize the multi-joint individual workload and the within-participants difference in each body segment. Twenty-one U-18 male players, that were part of a Youth Spanish First Division soccer team, performed an incremental running treadmill test and wore four WIMU PROTM inertial devices in lower limb (ankle-knee) and spine (lower-upper back) locations to register cumulative tri-axial accelerometry-based workload (PlayerLoad, PLRT). The main results have shown that the highest PLRT was detected at the lower limb, especially at the ankle. Different dynamics of accelerometer workload have been found between lower and upper limb, being them between ankle-knee at 12-km/h and lower-upper back at 9.5-km/h (p<.05). Between-participants’ differences were shown at all joints, finding the highest differences at the upper back (p<.01; d=2.17). Finally, the body segment knee-lower back reported the highest differences (%diff=34.25-to-67.28; d=2.20-to-4.77). In conclusion, a great between-participants external workload variability was found at joints and body segments, being recommended for an individualized assessment and specific training protocols.
El grado de la evidencia de las hipótesis estadísticas mediante el factor Bayes en las ciencias del deporte. [The degree of evidence for statistical hypotheses using the Bayes factor in sports science].
Authors: Ramos-Vera Cristian Antony
Published: February 2021

En el volumen 16 de RICYDE. Revista Internacional de Ciencias del Deporte, se publicó una importante investigación que reporta la existencia de una correlación negativa y estadísticamente significativa entre la frecuencia cardíaca media (FCM) y la diferencia de medias en porcentaje del tiempo de agotamiento en la prueba aeróbica (Dif. % Tagot), en 15 corredores de montaña, cuyos datos fueron analizados mediante las pruebas de significancia estadística (p < 0,05) mediante el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson (Landart, Cámara, Urdampilleta, Santos-Concejero, Gomez, y Yanci., 2020). Otro estudio más reciente en la presente revista reportó una diferencia significativa mediante la prueba t de student, el cual presentó un mayor nivel en la medida física de la capacidad cardiorrespiratoria en el post-test en contraste al pre-test en 14 alumnos de educación secundaria (Polo-Recuero, Moreno-Barrio y Ordóñez-Dios, 2020), que evidenció un aumento del efecto de intervención del estudio. (Leer más)
Exploring Educational Change in First-Year Calculus: A Comparative Case Study
Authors: Gynnild Vidar
Published: February 2021

This article draws on research conducted in a mandatory, first-year calculus course at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. By the turn of the century concerns were expressed over high failure rates in calculus, and action was called for to remedy the situation. In the years to come, various measures were introduced, though rather scattered and unsystematic. From 2013 onwards development initiatives in the course became more systematic, ensued by expectations of improved learning outcomes. This study draws on data collected by identical surveys conducted four years apart with a view to similarities and differences in attitudes and behaviours. Contrary to expectations, observed changes turned out to be marginal, if not totally missing, which in turn motivated the search for explanations to design more productive strategies.
Bruk av nettbrett til digitale innleveringer i fag med matematisk notasjon
Authors: GIljarhus Knut Erik Teigen , Mikkelsen Ove
Published: February 2021

MNT-fag har utstrakt bruk av matematisk notasjon og diagrammer. For øvingsoppgaver og eksamen i disse fagene blir det fortsatt overveiende brukt penn og papir. Samtidig er det et økende fokus på digitalisering. Digitale innleveringer og eksamen har flere fordeler; blant annet vil det minske administrativt arbeid med lagring og distribusjon av papirbesvarelser og det vil gjøre sensors arbeid enklere da sensur kan utføres digitalt og med økt lesbarhet. Å ha innleveringer på en heldigital form kan også ha en klar pedagogisk fordel. Med de matematiske uttrykkene i en digital form kan utrykkene utnyttes til løsning av likninger i beregningsprogrammer og studentene kan gis tilbakemeldinger underveis i løsningsprosessen.

Å skrive inn matematiske uttrykk på en PC er ofte tungvint og krever bruk av spesialisert notasjon som LaTeX eller pek-og-klikk verktøy som Microsoft sin ligningseditor i Word. Det samme gjelder for eksamensoppgaver i for eksempel Inspera. Det finnes også andre løsninger for digitalisering i dag, hovedsakelig basert på scanning av besvarelser. Dette innfrir noen av fordelene til digitale innleveringer, men man mangler fortsatt lesbarheten til en heldigital form, og man har ikke mulighet til å gjøre en analyse av besvarelsen for å få de pedagogiske mulighetene.

Det har i de siste årene skjedd en rivende utvikling innenfor nettbrett og håndskriftsgjenkjenning. Nyere nettbrett har svært lav forsinkelse i input, høyoppløste skjermer og avanserte algoritmer for håndflategjenkjenning og håndskriftsgjenkjenning, som kombinert kan gjøre opplevelsen nærmere penn og papir. I dette arbeidet har vi undersøkt i hvor stor grad dagens teknologi er anvendelig i fag med bruk av matematisk notasjon og figurer. Vi valgte ut to fag på masternivå for maskiningeniører og lot en gruppe studenter gjøre øvingsoppgaver med henholdsvis penn og papir, et tekstredigeringsverktøy (Microsoft Word) og et nettbrett (iPad med Apple Pencil). Deretter analyserte vi opplevelsen til studentene gjennom dybdeintervju og evaluering av innsendte øvingsoppgaver. Resultatene viste at studentene opplevde nettbrett som et godt alternativ til penn og papir, og en klar forbedring sammenlignet med tekstredigeringsverktøy, men at gjenkjenningen av matematiske uttrykk fortsatt ikke er god nok til å brukes uten betydelig opplæring og trening.
The Impact of a Mathematics Bridging Intervention on the Inclusivity of a University Economics Programme
Authors: Landgärds Ida Maria
Published: February 2021

The inclusivity of all students in the University Economics programme is in danger due to a high failure rate in the first-year mathematics course. This study investigates whether participation in a bridging course, and what aspects of it, can contribute to equal opportunities and increased inclusivity in the Mathematics for Economists course, and henceforth reduce the failure rate. It adds to the meager European literature on remedial course effectiveness. Through the use of ordinary least square regression analyses, a significant positive effect of participation in the bridging course was found for the student group as a whole. Furthermore, the results indicated that participation was particularly valuable for the least mathematically prepared students.
How to succeed with volunteers on the basis of commitment and ownership
Authors: Wæhle Andreas , Rogne Nora , Westbye Stian , Nilsen Jørgen , Tollevik Sigurd , Robbersmyr Kjell Gunnar
Published: February 2021

Organising a multidisciplinary student organisation face challenges in regards to student engagement,ownership and commitment. This article will discuss key factors to create commitmentand ownership in volunteer organisations. The identified factors are 1) an engaged core group ofambassadors who spread motivation, passion and drive, 2) build relations across departments andlevel of responsibility to lower the threshold to share ideas, give feedback and ask for advice, 3)expedient and communicated organisational structure that divides responsibility and ensures collaboration,and 4) clear individual and personal incentive to participate. These factors will increaseyour likelihood of success with motivating your members to be committed and take ownership.Align Racing UiA, the case of this study, is a student organisation with over 60 students engagedin multidisciplinary tasks. The team goal is to produce one race car per year and compete in FormulaStudent. The core visions for the team was establishment of community spirit, ownership andcommonly established success factors. This vision, and continuous progress, was enacted throughoutthe year of the competition with a focus on dependable communication across the departmentsand fast paced problem solving. The team achievements were impressive, compared with otherFormula Student teams.
Kan fusk på hjemmeeksamen forhindres?
Authors: Sindre Guttorm
Published: February 2021

For hjemmeeksamen som skjer helt uten tilsyn, er fusk en større bekymring enn for mange andre vurderingsformer. Plagiatsjekk kan være delvis effektivt for besvarelser som forventes å ha et sterkt individuelt preg, men i mindre grad for eksamensoppgaver med én eller noen få riktige løsninger, som ofte forekommer i grunnleggende MNT-fag. Erfaringer og anekdoter fra korona-våren 2020 tyder på et stort omfang av fusk. Forskningsspørsmålene for denne artikkelen er som følger: 1) Hvilke virkemidler fins for å redusere risikoen for fusk ved hjemmeeksamen, utover æreskoder og plagiatsjekk? 2) Hva er fordeler og ulemper med disse virkemidlene? Det sentrale bidraget i artikkelen er at virkemidler presenteres i en taksonomi, hvor vi ser på tiltak knyttet til utformingen av eksamen, kontroll underveis i utførelsen, og undersøkelser av besvarelser i etterkant. Mange tiltak kan være effektive når det gjelder å begrense fusk ved samarbeid mellom kandidater under eksamen. Derimot fins det vesentlig færre tiltak mot fusk hvor kandidaten får hjelp av en tredjepart, selv om økt interaktivitet og muntlighet i eksamen kan bidra.
Aktivitetsbasert emneorganisering
Authors: Lundheim Lars , Bolstad Torstein , Gajic` Bojana , Zimmermann Pauline Hardeberg , Tybell Thomas
Published: February 2021

I artikkelen deler vi våre første erfaringer med aktivitetsbasert emne­organi­sering som ble prøvd ut på et stort innføringsemne for sivilingeniørstudenter ved NTNU. Den grunnleggende ideen er at for å fremme studentaktiv læring, må både undervisere og studenter endre sine tanker og forventninger om hvordan et emne er organisert, både innen hver enkelt læringsøkt og over tid.
Sustainability in project-based learning: Project themes and self-perceived competencies
Authors: Bolstad Torstein , Lundheim Lars , Strømberg Anders , Orlandic Milica , Zimmermann Pauline Hardeberg
Published: February 2021

Project-based learning can be a suitable arena in which to integrate sustainability. In this work, we study what effect choosing a project theme related to sustainability has on the students’ own assessment of integration of sustainability aspects in their projects, and their development of the normative, critical thinking, and self-awareness competencies from UNESCO’s key competencies for sustainability. It is found that while having sustainability-related project themes does have some effect, the effect is limited compared to the development of other competencies in the course.
Experiences with informal student panel for continuous formative course evaluation
Authors: Pedersen Edvard
Published: February 2021

Background: Summative student evaluations of teaching is widely used to evaluatecourse content and instruction. However, this feedback does not benefit the students who are pro­viding the feedback, and may postpone feedback such that the evaluation is not useful in correctingissues in the course. There are several issues with this type of feedback that are tacled in this work:(i) The evaluation is not a help for the current students. (ii) The feedback is often imprecise. (iii)Evaluations focus on the quality of the teaching, rather than the impact of the learning. Previouswork [1, 2] have shown that continuous student involvement can improve the feedback received.The idea in this project is to perform this student panel interaction in an informal setting, conti­nously throughout the semester.Methods: This intervention has been performed for two consecutive semesters in different courses.During the first lecture of the semester, students were recruited to participate in a weekly informalmeeting to discuss the instruction in the course. Weekly meetings were held for one full semester,with each meeting lasting around 45 minutes. Notes were taken on all actionable items, and asummarizing report was written. This intervention has been evaluated through the inspection ofactionable items in the notes, as well as the implemented items.Results: 104/116 actionable items were identified during spring/fall 2020, of which 57/65 were im­plemented immidiately. Participation in the student panel group was high and stable.
Improving learning outcomes from the undergraduate chemistry laboratory
Authors: Seland John Georg , Fjellanger Inger Johanne , Spildo Kristine
Published: February 2021

The paper describes how to improve and evaluate learning outcomes in writing and critical thinking in the laboratory courses in the Bachelor program in Chemistry at the University of Bergen.  The suggested changes are based on research that show that these learning outcomes are improved when the students are involved in self-assessment, where they perform peer-review and are encouraged to reflect on their own learning experience. This process needs to be accompanied with systematic and frequent feedback.  It is also crucial to establish formal collegial groups where one can maintain systematic discussion regarding teaching in the laboratory courses. Suggested changes, and how they can be evaluated, are described in detail for two of the five mandatory laboratory courses in the program.
Tverrfaglig, prosjektbasert innføring i statistikk på universitetsnivå
Authors: Vinje Hilde , Frøslie K.F.
Published: February 2021

Forståelse for statistikk og kvantitativ forskningsmetode er en av bærebjelkene i kunnskapservervelse og -kommunikasjon innen naturvitenskapene. Anvendelse av statistikk er i sin natur tverrfaglig, og forutsetter samarbeid på tvers av domener. For å kunne frembringe ny kunnskap, er det nødvendig å kombinere domenekunnskap fra andre fagfelt med gode analysemetoder og forståelse for resultatene av disse. For å gjøre studentene i stand til å løse komplekse, reelle utfordringer etter endt studium, må vi jobbe med komplekse problemstillinger også under utdannelsen. Et pilotprosjekt med prosjektbasert undervisning ble introdusert i innføringskurset i statistikk på NMBU høstsemesteret 2018. Læring skulle tilegnes gjennom større prosjekter, med data fra andre fag og fagfelt. De fleste som går innføringskurset i statistikk på NMBU skal ikke bli statistikere, og arbeidsmetoden i et slikt prosjektbasert kurs reflekterer mer realiteten når de senere skal bruke statistikk som domeneeksperter. Våre erfaringer og observasjoner tyder på at å gå fra et tradisjonelt introduksjonskurs i statistikk til et prosjektbasert kurs, kan øke motivasjonen til studenter som ikke selv motiveres av teoretiske fagfelt som statistikk.
Algunas anotaciones sobre poesía caribeña: poesía indígena miskitu “aisanka prana nani” “expresiones bellas de la lírica miskitu
Authors: Saavedra Areas Fernando José , Fagoth Ana Rosa
Published: February 2021

Este ensayo literario constituye un modesto aporte dentro de la política intercultural promovida desde la universidad de las Regiones Autónomas de la Costa Caribe Nicaragüense (URACCAN) para dar a conocer la poesía y cultura caribeña nicaragüense. Todo esfuerzo es bueno y nunca conclusivo; nos anima el poder compartir con el resto de la nación en el ánimo de contribuir en la construcción de puentes de comunicación interculturales
La poesía negra de expresión brasileña en la consolidación de la identidad nacional
Authors: Otero Brabo Cruz Maria De Lourdes
Published: February 2021

La Doctora María de Lourdes Otero Brabo Cruz, perfila la identidad de esta poesía en el paradigma de los grandes que han expresado su lucha por la libertad y la abolición de la esclavitud, razón por la cual se alzaron los cantos y la poesía de los afrodescendientes en Brasil.
Çeşitli Klinik Örneklerden İzole Edilen Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Suşlarının Dağılımı ve Antimikrobiyal Duyarlılıkları: 8 Yılık Çalışma
Authors: BAHÇECİ İlkay
Published: February 2021

Amaç: Hastane enfeksiyonları ve buna bağlı mortalitenin artması çoklu ilaç direncine sahip fırsatçı patojenleri her zamankinden daha fazla gündeme getirmiştir. Bunlar arasında yer alan stenotrophomonas maltophilia önemi giderek artan fırsatçı bir patojendir. Bu çalışmanın amacı,sekiz yıllık süre boyunca hastanemizde çeşitli klinik örneklerden izole edilmiş S. maltophilia izolatlarının dağılımını ve antimikrobiyal duyarlılıklarını araştırmaktır.

Yöntemler: Ocak 2011-Aralık 2019 tarihleri arasında çeşitli klinik örneklerden izole edilen toplam 149 S. maltophilia suşunun antimikrobiyallere direnç oranları araştırıldı. Bakteri identifikasyonu ve antibiyotik duyarlılığı rutin konvansiyonel mikrobiyolojik yöntemler ve VİTEK 2 kompakt otomatize sistem (BioMerieux, France) ile yapılmıştır.

Bulgular: S. maltophilia en sık yoğun bakım ünitelerinde izole edilirken 50 (%33,5), en az 1 örnekle ( %0,6) Kardiyovasküler cerrahi servisi, Pediatri servisinden izolasyon gerçekleşmiştir. Örneklerin 85’i (%57,) solunum yolu izolatları olurken (trakeal aspirat, lavaj, balgam), en az 1 örnek ( %0,6) ile plevra ve eklem sıvısı olmuştur. Karbapenemlere doğal direnç gösteren S. maltophilia’da levofloksasin direnci % 6 iken, trimetoprim/sulfametoksazol’de %12, seftazidim’de %45 olarak tespit edilmiştir.

Tartışma ve Sonuç: Çalışmada saptanan yüksek direnç oranları nedeniyle, S. maltophilia suşlarının etken olduğu nozokomiyal enfeksiyonların tedavisinde mümkün olduğunca in vitro duyarlılık testlerinin yapılması gerekir. Bunun yapılamadığı durumlarda ise tedavi planlamasında trimetoprim-sulfametoksazol ve levofloksasin iyi birer tedavi seçeneğidir. Ayrıca tedaviye başlamadan önce kolonizasyon - etken ayrımı klinik bulgularda göz önünde tutularak birlikte karar verilmelidir.
Comparative Study of Effect of Spinal Anesthesia in Sitting and Lateral Positions on the Onset Time of Sensory Block and Hemodynamic Condition in Cesarean Section: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Manouchehrian Nahid , Moradi Abbas , Torkashvand Leyla
Published: February 2021

Background: Spinal anesthesia is the method of choice for the cesarean section. Hypotension is a common complication of this method. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effect of spinal anesthesia in the sitting and lateral positions on the onset time of sensory block and hemodynamic condition in cesarean sections. Methods: In this clinical trial, 106 elective cesarean section candidates under spinal anesthesia were selected and randomly divided into two groups: spinal anesthesia in the sitting position (group S) and the lateral position (group L). The onset time of the sensory block, quality of sensory and motor block, hemodynamic condition, frequency of hypotension, nausea, and vomiting, and the doses of ephedrine and atropine were compared between both groups. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 16 software at a 95% confidence level. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of age. The frequency of hypotension in L and S groups was 24.5% and 57.7%, respectively (P = 0.001), in minute 6 after spinal anesthesia and 5.7% and 36.5%, respectively (P < 0.001), in minute 8 after spinal anesthesia. The mean time to reach the sensory level of T6 was 1.30 ± 0.43 min versus 4.54 ± 2.12 min (P < 0.001), motor block score in minute 5 was 2.98 ± 0.14 versus 2.82 (P = 0.044), and ephedrine dose was 11.5 mg and 16.92 mg in the L and S groups, respectively (P = 0.010). The maximum sensory-motor block and satisfaction of women with spinal anesthesia were significantly higher in the lateral position than in the sitting position (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Cesarean sections under spinal anesthesia in the lateral position than in the sitting position lead to a more rapid sensory and motor block, reduced ephedrine consumption, and enhanced satisfaction of women.
Prevalence of Undescended Testis in Tehran and the Main Risk Factors: A Cross-sectional Multicenter Study
Authors: Fakhr Yasseri Alimohammad , Dialameh Hossein , Namdari Farshad , Shariatpanahi Ghazal , Veisizadeh Maryam , Gorji Alireza , Meisami Alipasha , Soleimani Parvaneh , siroosbakht Soheila
Published: February 2021

Background: Undescended testis (UDT) is the most common abnormality of the male genital system. To date, no study has been carried out to determine the prevalence of UDT and its risk factors in Tehran. This study aimed to determine the frequency of cryptorchidism and its risk factors in male infants who were born at three university hospitals in Tehran. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on boys born at three major university hospitals (Baharlou, Yas, and Ziaeian Hospitals) in Tehran between 2016 and 2018. All of the newborns were examined on the first or second day of birth. Demographic data were collected using hospital databases after getting permission. Also, the pregnancy care card was used to collect maternal complications of pregnancy, including gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, eclampsia, fetal malignancy, preterm, and late delivery. Results: A total of 1,350 boys were evaluated. Eleven (0.81%) boys had UDT. There were statistically significant associations between UDT and maternal hypertension, presence of other congenital anomalies, infection during pregnancy, fetal presentation, and type of delivery. The average birth weight and gestational age were lower in patients with UDT than in healthy infants. Conclusions: The prevalence of UDT in Tehran was much lower than in previously reported rates in other areas. Factor analysis showed that cryptorchidism was associated with the markers of poor fetal development.