bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiencing epiphany. Contexts of becoming a teacher in an interactive perspective
Authors: Dobińska Gabriela
Published: June 2020

The article is devoted to the category of "becoming" a teacher. The purpose of the following considerations is to present the motives for choosing the teaching profession. Adopting an interactive perspective, I will focus on the first stage of becoming a teacher, i.e. making a decision about choosing this career path, and then supplement the undertaken considerations with the concepts of epiphanies experienced by teachers during socialization. The introduction presents the main research directions with the participation of educators, and also draws attention to the need to explore the issue of the process of "becoming" a teacher. The theoretical part presents the most important concepts in the field of pedeutology oscillating around the concept and approaches placing the teacher in the center. The research project is maintained in an interpretative paradigm, the biographical method was used. As a result, empirical material was collected covering 14 interviews with teachers. The results of the study allowed to characterize the subjects' motives to "become" a teacher, which were realized in two variants: external and internal motivation. The following analysis of the research is a fragment of a broader research project focused on epiphanies and experiences crystallizing in the selection of the professional path of educators of various specialties in a biographical perspective, implemented as part of a targeted subsidy for young scientists. Financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.
Jindřich Kabát, Psychologie komunismu: Ojedinělý pohled na čtyřicetileté období komunismu u nás, Praha: Nakladatelství Práh 2011, ss. 472
Authors: Śliwerski Bogusław
Published: June 2020

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Investment Arbitration at the Crossroads of Public and Private International. Current Issues with ISDS
Authors: Víg Zoltán , Hajdu Gábor
Published: June 2020

After decades of success, investment arbitration has become an extremely controversial topic, riven by multiple allegations and concerns among the experts and various interest groups. In this contribution, we aim to examine the most relevant and severe of these issues, including regulatory chill. Regulatory chill is a purported phenomenon that claims that investment arbitration favors foreign investors, and thus intimidates host states into refusing to implement policies that would contradict with the interests of foreign investors. We not only examine these problems, but also attempt to suggest some potential remedies for alleviating these issues.
Flexibility in Approaches to Conflict-of-law Solutions – Section 24 (1) of the Private International Law Act
Authors: Rozehnalová Naděžda
Published: June 2020

The paper deals with the question of flexibility in approaching conflict-of-law rules as a whole. The Czech Private International Law Act (adopted in 2012, in force since 1 January 2014) inclined towards the possibility of not applying the conflict-of-law rules contained in the Act itself under certain specific conditions. This represents a significant change compared to the previous regulations. The paper analyses the escape clause in section 24 (1) Czech PILA.
Development of Rules for Determining Applicable Law for the Third-party Effects of Assignment of Claims
Authors: Garajová Michaela
Published: June 2020

Due to the lack of legal certainty in determining the law applicable to third-party effects of the assignment of claims and, consequently, determining the law applicable to the owner of the claim after a cross-border transaction, the European Commission proposed a new regulation aimed at increasing cross-border transactions investment and market integration. The aim of the new regulation is clear and the reasons for its proposal are understandable. Nevertheless, we wonder what impact the new regulation will have on cross-border transactions if it is adopted as it is right now. Will these uniform rules reduce legal risks and bring significant added value to financial markets?
Beyond the research paper: First-generation students and the Framework in everyday contexts
Authors: Ilett Darren
Published: June 2020

Being first gen, it’s hard, like, the library information is not in us ’cause we are learning this by ourselves.” This sentiment, expressed by Vanessa, a first-year, first-generation student, is a common one. The unspoken norms, procedures, and genres that incoming students are expected to grasp—both in higher education generally and in information literacy and academic libraries specifically—often make college an unfamiliar, confusing, and unwelcoming new world for first-generation students (FGS). Yet in my work as a liaison librarian for TRIO and other support programs at the University of Northern Colorado, I constantly wonder at the highly developed and varied knowledge and skills FGS bring with them from their homes, workplaces, communities, and previous education.
Community engagement: Leveraging library online tools to support local historical organizations
Authors: Murray Jennifer
Published: June 2020

Among Floridians, Jacksonville is known as the “First Coast.” It is a reference to the fact that Northeast Florida has some of the oldest European settlements in North America. The numerous local historical organizations are forever challenged to preserve and share the rich history of “all that is Jacksonville–including early settlers, 19th- and 20th-century urban planning and architecture, civil rights and Black history, city governance, and our national parks heritage.” They often do not have the resources needed, but local academic libraries are rich in resources and tools that can benefit organizations outside the library and help bring more awareness to the organizations and the collections they have. As the role of academic libraries continues to evolve with technological changes, libraries are continuously looking for ways to reinvent themselves and expand their role within their university and throughout the greater community.
Washington Hotline
Authors: Maher Kevin , Russell Carrie
Published: June 2020

COVID-19 relief for academic librariesWhile budget cuts for college and research libraries are taking place at many institutions, ALA continues to advocate for libraries to be included in federal relief packages. The $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (P.L.116-136), passed in April, would benefit college and research libraries. The majority of the CARES Act Education Stabilization Fund is reserved for institutions of higher education (IHE) centers around student aid and encourages maximum flexibility. For example, the Department of Education (ED) is suspending payments on federal student loans until September 30, 2020, and no interest would accrue during this period of suspension. However, as much as 49% of the Education Stabilization Fund may be expended (to cover any costs associated with significant changes to the delivery of instruction due to the coronavirus), with only a few constraints.
A Wonder-Full Task Leads to a Wonder-Full Intervention
Authors: Ruttenberg-Rozen Robyn
Published: June 2020

Mathematical paradoxes often produce awe and wonder in the mathematics classroom. In this classroom episode, I share a paradoxical task, based on Simpson's Paradox, and its power as an intervention for a child diagnosed with ADHD. The Paradox leveraged his strengths to help him build understandings in proportional reasoning.
Opportunities for Redefining Unconventional Units
Authors: Wessman-Enzinger Nicole M. , Hofer Kristina M.
Published: June 2020

This article highlights the importance of re-defining units unconventionally with fractions. We provide three examples of tasks Grade 5 students engaged in; we highlight the creative ways that they flexibly re-defined units and engaged deeply with fractions. We offer suggestions for supporting unconventional units for promoting conceptual understanding of fractions.
Evaluating Videos for Flipped Instruction
Authors: Otten Samuel , Zhao Wenmin , de Araujo Zandra , Sherman Milan
Published: June 2020

Teachers who are flipping instruction face the challenging task of selecting or creating high-quality videos for their students. This article presents a framework for evaluating videos and describes the benefits of including interactive features and considering options beyond lecture videos.
Classroom Rules Reimagined as the Rights of the Learner
Authors: Kalinec-Craig Crystal , Robles Rose Ann
Published: June 2020

The article describes how one fifth-grade teacher helped her students to exercise their Rights of the Learner (e.g., to be confused; to claim a mistake; to speak, listen, and be heard; and to write, do, and represent what makes sense) as they learned to graph and interpret non-linear data.
Monitoramento reprodutivo de tartarugas marinhas na praia de Urussuquara/ES após o rompimento da barragem do Fundão em Mariana/MG
Authors: Silva Cleber Vinicius Vitorio da , Almeida Josimar Ribeiro de , Silva Carlos Eduardo , Souza Camilo Pinto de , Silva Carlos Domingos da
Published: June 2020

No dia 5 de novembro de 2015 ocorreu o rompimento da barragem de Fundão da mineradora Samarco, localizada no subdistrito de Bento Rodrigues-MG, a 35 km do centro do município brasileiro de Mariana-MG, aproximadamente 16.000 piscinas olímpicas de resíduos de mineração percolaram pelo distrito de Bento Rodrigues num período de apenas 11 minutos. A pluma deste impacto ambiental, se estendeu aproximadamente por 800 km na bacia do Rio Doce, entre Minas Gerais e Espírito Santo. O rio Ipiranga localizado entre os municípios capixabas de Linhares-ES e São Mateus-ES, foi um dos últimos locais atingidos pelos resíduos da bacia do rio Doce, tendo contato com o mar na restinga da praia de Urussuquara-ES, local que é berçário de tartarugas marinhas. O presente estudo realizado pelos cientistas e pesquisadores da Helium Corp Engenharia, teve como objetivo prospectar ninhos de tartarugas marinhas na praia de Urussuquara e realizar seu monitoramento sazonal, que teve início em setembro de 2017 e seu término em maio de 2018. Foram levantados um total de 23 ninhos com distribuição homogênea pela costa,  a espécie com maior abundância de registros foi Chelonia mydas (Linnaeus, 1758) com 17 ninhos, seguido da espécie Caretta caretta (Linnaeus, 1758) com 5 ninhos, seguido da espécie Dermochelys coriacea (Linnaeus, 1766) com 1 ninho levantado. Por conseguinte a praia de Urussuquara deve ser conceituada como um lócus prioritário de importância mundial à proteção e conservação de tartarugas marinhas.
Mapeamento de competências na construção civil: um estudo aplicado ao canteiro de obras
Authors: Ferreira Anderson Saccol
Published: June 2020

O tema deste estudo busca por meio do mapeamento de competências na construção civil, analisar os conhecimentos, habilidade e atitudes num canteiro de obras. O artigo teve como objetivo mapear as competências dos cargos no canteiro de obras em uma organização da construção civil no município de Chapecó (SC), para a aplicabilidade da gestão por competências. O procedimento metodológico adotado buscou, por meio de entrevistas, coletar dados que possam subsidiar o mapeamento das competências definindo os papéis e os cargos acerca dos conhecimentos, habilidades e atitudes desejadas pela organização. As principais constatações do estudo surgem no momento em que o mapeamento estabelece a competência em situação, ou seja, posta em ação, explicando como ocorre no canteiro de obras. Conforme foram estabelecidas as atribuições dos cargos e funções na coleta de dados demonstrou a fragilidade ficando baixo do desejável nas competências em saber agir, ou seja, as atitudes.
Estudo de teores de metais pesados em materiais escolares e possível contaminação ambiental e humana
Authors: Arlanch Augusto Bergamo , Falkowski David Junior , Sartori Rogério Antonio , Consolin Marcilene Ferrari Barriquello , Medeiros Flávia Vieira da Silva , Consolin Filho Nelson
Published: June 2020

Esse trabalho visa identificar a presença de metais pesados em materiais escolares que são destinados a crianças, pois tais elementos acarretam risco para saúde humana, principalmente nos anos iniciais da vida, devido a um processo chamado de bioacumulação, capaz de absorver e reter substâncias nocivas nos seres vivos, levando o organismo a danos no longo da vida, bem como o risco de contaminação ambiental. O presente projeto utilizou a técnica de Espectrometria de Absorção Atômica (EAA), o seu fundamento evolve na capitação da radiação eletromagnética de átomos gasosos no estado fundamental para identificar quais as quantidades de elementos metálicos presentes de uma variedade de amostras. Os resultados obtidos foram comparados com os valores permitidos pela resolução vigente e, em caso de apresentarem valores superiores de concentração que ultrapassem o permitido pelo INMETRO, é necessária a reavaliação destes produtos, pois novas medidas devem ser feitas caso ocorra a possibilidade de malefício à saúde humana. Os elementos estudados foram alumínio, cádmio, chumbo e cromo, elementos que podem causar problemas principalmente no sistema nervoso, uma parte delicada do corpo que dependendo da alteração pode ser irreversível. Alguns dos materiais estudados apresentaram alto teor de alumínio, com valores de 129,72 mg/kg à 26.390,00 mg/kg, sendo algo que deve se preocupar e dar importância e quais medidas devem ser tomadas. Entretanto o chumbo e cromo apresentaram quantidades mínimas na quantificação da maioria dos materiais estudados e estão bem longe do valor máximo, pelo menos 20 vezes menos do que o permitido pelo INMETRO.
A experimentação como facilitadora de ensino: pesquisa-ação em ensino de ciências no ensino fundamental
Authors: Jesus Claudineide Santos de , Santos Maria Auxiliadora
Published: June 2020

Esta pesquisa realizou atividades experimentais nas aulas de ciências naturais, como uma ferramenta de ensino. O artigo apresenta resultados de pesquisa com a questão: a metodologia da experimentação contribui para os alunos do 2º ano do ensino fundamental desenvolverem o pensamento científico?. Para tal, teve como objetivo geral analisar a experimentação através da pesquisa-ação como estratégia de ensino para as aulas de ciências do 2º ano do Ensino Fundamental. Os objetivos específicos foram: aplicar a pesquisa-ação no desenvolvimento de trabalhos em sala de aula; pesquisar a experimentação como método de ensino; trabalhar a aproximação do conteúdo estudado à realidade do aluno; provocar o interesse dos alunos do 2º ano do Ensino Fundamental pelo conteúdo estudado; analisar a evolução intelectual do professor pesquisador e dos alunos. Pesquisa de cunho qualitativo (COUTINHO, 2018), com os referenciais da pesquisa-ação (FRANCO, 2005; TRIPP, 2005) e apoiada em autores como Carvalho (1998; 2004), Espinoza (2010) e Astolfi et al. (1998). Como instrumento, utilizou a aprendizagem por projeto (BENDER, 2014) e foi desenvolvida, com crianças do segundo ano do Ensino Fundamental, com idade entre 7 e 8 anos. O resultado foi a constatação que a construção do conhecimento foi facilitada porque as atividades experimentais propiciaram aos alunos, a compreensão da teoria. O envolvimento nas atividades, possibilitou o trabalho em grupo e aproximou os alunos dos processos, práticas e procedimentos da investigação científica, possibilitou que colocassem em prática, diferentes conhecimentos tácitos no intuito de obter resultados. Em seu caráter epistemológico, a pesquisa-ação é uma ferramenta que privilegia a voz dos participantes e abre caminho para a construção do conhecimento.
Genome-wide analysis of the C3H zinc finger family reveals its functions in salt stress responses of Pyrus betulaefolia
Authors: Liu Chunxiao , Xu Xiaoyang , Kan Jialiang , Cheng Zong ming , Chang Youhong , Lin Jing , Li Hui
Published: June 2020

Transcription factors regulate gene expression in response to various external and internal cues by activating or suppressing downstream genes. Significant progress has been made in identifying and characterizing the Cysteine3Histidine (C3H) gene family in several dicots and monocots. They are characterized by their signature motif of three cysteine and one histidine residues, and reportedly play important roles in regulation of plant growth, developmental processes and environmental responses. In this study, we performed genome-wide and deep analysis of putative C3H genes, and a total of 117 PbeC3H members, were identified in P. betulaefolia and classified into 12 groups. Results were supported by the gene structural characteristics and phylogenetic analysis. These genes were unevenly distributed on 17 chromosomes. The gene structures of the C3H genes were relatively complex but conserved in each group. The C3H genes experienced a WGD event that occurred in the ancestor genome of P. betulaefolia and apple before their divergence based on the synonymous substitutions (Ks) values. There were 35 and 37 pairs of paralogous genes in the P. betulaefolia and apple genome, respectively, and 87 pairs of orthologous genes between P. betulaefolia and apple were identified. Except for one orthologous pairs PbeC3H66 and MD05G1311700 which had undergone positive selection, the other C3H genes had undergone purifying selection. Expression profiles showed that high salinity stress could influence the expression level of C3H genes in P. betulaefolia. Four members were responsive to salt stress in roots, nine were responsive to salt stress in leaves and eight showed inhibited expression in leaves. Results suggested important roles of PbeC3H genes in response to salt stress and will be useful for better understanding the complex functions of the C3H genes, and will provide excellent candidates for salt-tolerance improvement.
No evidence that crayfish carcasses produce detectable environmental DNA (eDNA) in a stream enclosure experiment
Authors: Curtis Amanda N. , Larson Eric R.
Published: June 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an emerging tool for monitoring invasive and imperiled species, particularly at low densities. However, the factors that control eDNA production, transport, and persistence in aquatic systems remain poorly understood. For example, the extent to which carcasses produce detectable eDNA is unknown. If positive detections are associated with dead organisms, this could confound monitoring for imperiled or invasive species. Here, we present results from one of the first studies to examine carcass eDNA in situ by deploying carcasses of the invasive red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) in a stream enclosure experiment for 28 days. We predicted that carcasses would initially produce eDNA that would decline over time as carcasses decayed. Unsurprisingly, crayfish carcasses lost biomass over time, but at the conclusion of our experiment much of the carapace and chelae remained. However, no eDNA of P. clarkii was detected in any of our samples at the crayfish density (15 P. clarkii carcasses at ∼615 g of biomass initially), stream flow (520–20,319 L/s), or temperature (∼14–25 °C) at our site. Subsequent analyses demonstrated that these results were not the consequence of PCR inhibition in our field samples, poor performance of the eDNA assay for intraspecific genetic diversity within P. clarkii, or due to the preservation and extraction procedure used. Therefore, our results suggest that when crayfish are relatively rare, such as in cases of new invasive populations or endangered species, carcasses may not produce detectable eDNA. In such scenarios, positive detections from field studies may be more confidently attributed to the presence of live organisms. We recommend that future studies should explore how biomass, flow, and differences in system (lentic vs. lotic) influence the ability to detect eDNA from carcasses.
La investigación formativa y su incidencia en el desarrollo académico y empresarial de la geomática
Authors: Rocha Salamanca Luz Angela
Published: June 2020

Uno de los elementos importantes que se han incorporado en los programas de educación superior en Colombia, es el enfoque hacia la investigación formativa, la cual tiene como objetivo sembrar la semilla de investigadores en los estudiantes de educación superior. La Universidad Distrital a través de su programa de Ingeniería Catastral y Geodesia ha venido trabajando arduamente en la consolidación de la investigación dentro del programa. Es así como sus grupos de investigación han promovido la creación de los semilleros de investigación los cuales son los encargados de generar la conciencia de investigación en los estudiantes es decir lo que se llama en el ámbito académico la investigación formativa.Es así como en el ámbito de la geomática el grupo de investigación NIDE tiene adscrito tres semilleros los cuales desde el año 2007 trabajan para familiarizar a los estudiantes con los procesos de investigación generando proyectos que permitan afianzar los conceptos en los temas relacionados con las ciencias de la información geográfica.Durante estos 10 años gracias a los semilleros de investigación, se han generado proyectos y tesis de grado que permiten ver el avance de los estudiantes en el uso de las herramientas geotecnológicas, basados en un conjunto de elementos conceptuales y técnicos que permiten mejorar los procesos de enseñanza – aprendizaje en Sistemas de Información Geográfica y Percepción Remota.De la misma forma los semilleros de investigación han dado el salto de la comunidad académica a la empresarial, ya que algunas empresas distribuidoras de software han incorporado en sus procesos de desarrollo, semilleros donde los estudiantes trabajan y aportan en la generación de aplicaciones y transferencia de conocimientos, lo que ha permitido mejorar los tiempos y la calidad de los servicios. El objetivo de este artículo, es entonces, mostrar la importancia de la creación de semilleros de investigación y el aporte investigativo de éstos no sólo en la parte académica sino también empresarial.Palabras clave: Investigación formativa, estudiantes pregrado, semilleros de investigación, educación superior
Infección por Herpesvirus equino tipo 1 y tipo 4: revisión y actualización.
Authors: Tuemmers Christian , Saldivia Angelica , Venegas Oscar , Otarola Carolina
Published: June 2020

Los Herpesvirus Equino tipo 1 (VHE-1) y Herpesvirus Equino tipo 4 (VHE-4) son patógenos que están ampliamente distribuidos en las poblaciones de equinos de todo el mundo, considerándose dentro de los agentes más importantes debido a las consecuencias devastadoras que producen a la industria equina. Las enfermedades producidas por estos virus se denominan comúnmente como Rinoneumonitis Equina (RNE) ya que ambos tienen la capacidad de producir enfermedad respiratoria, sin embargo, el VHE-1 también puede causar abortos en los últimos meses de gestación, muerte en neonatos o disfunción neurológica; por otra parte, el VHE-4 raramente puede ocasionar abortos.Luego de la infección primaria por VHE-1 o VHE-4, estos tienden a entrar en un estado de latencia viral, en la cual los animales infectados se encuentran aparentemente sanos, pudiendo posteriormente reactivarse frente a situaciones de estrés. Dichos mecanismos permiten la supervivencia y propagación de estos virus a otros caballos susceptibles.VHE-1 y VHE-4 son enzoóticos en muchos países del mundo, en especial en los que se mantienen grandes poblaciones de caballos, por lo que es primordial realizar un diagnóstico oportuno y certero, además de conocer las estrategias de prevención y control que existen a escala mundial y nacional. La presente revisión bibliográfica busca otorgar  información actualizada referente a la infección por VHE-1 y VHE-4 y dar a conocer la importancia de la prevención de la infección por estos patógenos.Palabras clave: Infección, Herpesvirus Equino tipo 1, Herpesvirus Equino tipo 4.
Evaluation of heavy metals in some locally produced food seasonings in Katsina State Nigeria
Authors: Yaradua Aliyu Ibrahim , Alhassan Adamu Jibrin , Matazu Kabir Ibrahim , Nasir Abdullahi , Idi Aminu , Muhammad Usman Ibrahim , Kanadi Azik Musa
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted to determine the heavy metals concentration in seeds used as raw materials in producing local food seasonings (Locust bean, Soya beans and seed of Hibiscus subdariffa) and the produced local seasonings (Daddawar Kalwa, Daddawar waken Soya and Daddawar Botso) in Katsina state Nigeria. The objectives were mainly to detect the presence of heavy metals in some local seeds used in the preparation of local seasonings and their processed products used in food seasoning in the study area, compare the effect of processing on concentration of heavy metals in samples in relation to the permissible limits specified by WHO/FAO/USEPA Standards. Samples of seeds used in local processing of food seasonings were collected in the year 2017 from the selected area.  Analysis for the concentration of these heavy metals; Cr, Cd, Fe, Ni, Mn, Pb and Zn was conducted by the use of AAS (by Atomic Absorption Spetrophotometry) method. The difference between concentrations of heavy metals in unprocessed and processed seed samples was performed by the use of T-test statistical analysis. Results from this study has shown that concentration values of Cu, Cr, Cd, Fe, Ni, Mn and Zn in the  samples were generally lower than the USEPA, WHO/FAO maximum permissive limits. The results have indicated that the estimated daily intake of the heavy metals were lower than the tolerable daily intake limit set by the USEPA (2013) in both samples and the health risk index (HRI) for all the heavy metals were <1. The target hazard quotient (THQ) for the samples was in the decreasing order Cd>Pb>Mn>Fe>Ni>Zn>Cr, with the heavy metal Cd having a value of more than 1 which is a cause for concern. Key words: Soya beans, Heavy metals, Katsina, seasonings, locust beans.
The use of enriched organic fertilizer to reduce organic and inorganic fertilizer application and increase potato yields in the highlands of Indonesia
Authors: Rosliani Rini , Yufdy Prama , Hilman Yusdar
Published: June 2020

The use of Enriched organic fertilizer to Reduce organic and Inorganic Fertilizer Application and Increase the Potato Yields in the Highlands of Indonesia. Experiment was conducted at Experimental Station of Indonesian Vegetable Research Institute (the elevation of this site is 1250 meters above sea level) from June to November 2017. The objective of the experiment is to obtain an efficient technology of nutrient management in terms of organics and biological fertilizers and to obtain appropriate technology of potato tuber. The implementation of the research was preceded by making compost manure using Bio-decomposer for one month and enriched by using Bio-Phosphate and beneficial Micro-organism, dolomite, ash husk and rock phosphate, then continued with its application in the field with potato as an indicator plant. The treatments were arrange in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. The treatments included the use of organic fertilizer in terms of horse manure enrichment at a rate of 20 and 40 t/ha and inorganic fertilizer at a rate of 0, 500 and 1000 kg NPK and horse manure 40 t/ha + 1000 kg NPK/ha as control plants (farmer’s practice). Results of the experiments indicated that the use of horse manure enriched by microorganism can reduce a rate of horse manure from 40 ton/ha to 20 t/ha to produce growth and yield of potato. Enriched horse manure can also reduce the use of inorganic fertilizers by half rate (500 kg NPK / ha). Combination of enriched horse manure  20 t / ha + 500 kg NPK / ha is more efficient to increase yield of potato tubers. The use of enriched horse manure does not seem to affect the improvement of soil fertility, especially for the availability of soil P and soil biological activity.Keywords:  Solanum tuberosum,  horse manure, decomposer microbes,  inorganic fertilizers,  tuber yields.
Sustainability of black nera laying birds on pig dung meal based diets.
Authors: Ahaotu Emmanuel , Onuoha W , Uwaleke G , Agiang E. A.
Published: June 2020

The study was undertaken on utilization of farm animal organic waste as feeds for livestock and poultry. Increasing feed costs and international concern for the conservation of resources have focused attention on the nutrients in animal wastes that have in the past been used largely as fertilizer or as a major source of fuel for villagers in a number of countries. Animal wastes represent a vast reservoir of cheap nutrients, particularly for ruminants. The limitation in using animal waste as feed is that it needs processing. Dehydration, ensiling, chemical and physical treatments can be used to maintain the nutrient composition and increase the palatability and feeding values of the waste. Animal waste can potentially be used not only to maintain animals in the dry time but also to encourage performance quite satisfactorily. Feeding cattle manure in poultry and pigs promotes meat and egg productivity respectively. Pig waste, when processed and properly balanced with other ingredients, may become a potential feed substitute for cattle at levels up to 30%. No differences in the quality of meat from animals fed waste have been detected, nor has there been a problem of consumer acceptance in animal products.Keywords: Black Nera Laying Birds, Pig Dung Meal, Diets, Feed Cost, Organic Waste.
Carcass, Organ Weights and Egg Quality Characteristics of Guinea Fowl Layers Fed Varying Levels of Butter Fly Pea Leaf (Centrosema Pubescent) Meal.
Authors: Ahaotu Emmanuel , Nwafor C , Onyebuchu P A , Okpara O
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different protein levels on growth of guinea fowl keets (Numidia meagris) of the same age under intensive system in a typical poultry house from 6th week to 12th week of age. They were fed commercial broiler starter for two weeks and maintained on same diet of 18% crude protein for 5 weeks of age and given water ad libitum. The birds were separated into three pens. One hundred and twenty old guinea fowls were assigned at grower period on 3 dietary protein levels of 14, 16 and 18% crude protein (CP) on same metabolizable energy level of 2800 kcal/ kg. The study conducted at the Poultry Unit of Teaching and Research Farm, Imo State Polytechnic was used to test the performance of the guinea fowl layer birds. The birds were killed at the owner’s farm by cutting the neck through the jugular vein. There was significant difference (P<0.05) in feed intake between the three treatments. The internal organs for the treatments were not significantly different. Keywords: Carcass, Organ Weights, Egg Quality Characteristics, Guinea Fowl Layers, Butter Fly Pea Leaf (Centrosema Pubescent) Meal.
Heavy metal contamination of Pleuronectiformes species from Sinop coasts of the Black Sea
Authors: Bat Levent , Şahin Fatih , Öztekn Ayşah
Published: June 2020

In the Turkish Black Sea coasts fish is particularly consumed because of high protein supplies, essential amino acids, vitamin, and mineral content. Fish are exposed to contaminants such as heavy metals in polluted waters. The aims of the study are to determine heavy metals in Pleuronectiformes species from Sinop coasts of the Black Sea and determine the health risks due to the consumption of contaminated fish. Pleuronectiformes species Scophthalmus maximus (Linnaeus, 1758) belonging to Scophthalmidae family, Arnoglossus laterna (Walbaum, 1792) belonging to Bothidae family and Pegusa lascaris (Risso, 1810) belonging to Soleidae family were collected from Sinop coasts of the Black Sea in fishing season of 2016. Heavy metals (Hg, Cd, Pb, Cu and Zn) in edible tissues were determined by ICP-MS (Agilent 7700x). The limit values given by the international and national organizations did not exceed in the muscle tissues of turbot, Mediterranean scald fish and sand sole. Overall Zn was detected in higher concentrations in all species followed by Cu, Pb, Hg and Cd. The results obtained from the analyses of the maximum levels of the metals except Hg were found in turbot. The highest Hg (0.021±0.007 µg g-1 wet wt.) was found in sand sole. However, the high amounts of Cd, Pb, Cu and Zn in turbot were 0.011±0.004, 0.07±0.005,1.32±0.28 and 14±3 µg g-1 wet wt., respectively. The EDIs and EWIs of the metals were estimated taking into account the mean of metal in all fish samples and the mean consumption of fish per day/week for adults. These results are normally significantly lower than the recommended values of FAO/WHO. Estimated HIs of all the considered metals were below the value of 1, therefore the metals in fish samples do not toxic any apparent threat to the population and these fishes are healthy for consumption.Keywords: Scophthalmus maximus, Arnoglossus laterna, Pegusa lascaris, heavy metals, Black Sea
Effect of brewery spent grain on the growth and yield of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (l.) Moench)
Authors: Amenkhienan Bright Ehijiele , Isitekhale Harry Henry
Published: June 2020

A field experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma to investigate the effect of brewery spent grain on the growth and yield of sorghum. Treatment consisted of five rates of brewery spent grain (BSG) (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 t/ha). The experiment was a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Sorghum variety (ABS 4540 AMZU) was used as a test crop. The parameters measured included: plant height, leaf area, number of leaves/plant at 3, 6 and 9 weeks after planting (WAP). Whole plant dry matter yield and grain weight were also determined. The results obtained showed that BSG treatments had significantly (P<0.05) higher plant height, leaf area and number of leaves than the control in all the weeks after planting, except for number of leaves at 3 WAP. At 3 and 6 WAP, the tallest plants (21.33 cm and 33.05 cm) were obtained from crops treated with 8 t/ha BSG while those treated with 6 t/ha BSG had the tallest plant (95.04 cm) at 9 WAP. 6 t/ha BSG recorded the highest leaf area at 3, 6 and 9 WAP.  At 6 WAP, the highest number of leaves (9.00) was observed from plants which received the application of 6 t/ha BSG. However, control had the highest number of leaves (10.00) than BSG treatments. The highest grain yield (2.54 t/ha) and dry matter yield (3.80 g) were obtained from crops which received the application of 6 and 8 t/ha BSG, respectively. Keywords: Brewery Spent Grain, Growth, Sorghum, Yield.
Transplanting date adjustment in Boro rice cultivation as a strategy to reduce groundwater withdrawal in Bangladesh
Authors: Ali Md. Hossain
Published: June 2020

Due to intensive irrigated rice cultivation during dry season, declining trend of groundwater level is observed in many parts of Bangladesh. Field experiments were conducted in 2015 and 2016 at four experimental stations of Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture, Bangladesh to evaluate the performance of some Boro rice cultivars in different planting dates with respect to yield and irrigation water requirement, and to optimize between yield and irrigation water requirement, with a view to reduce groundwater withdrawal and hence reducing mining of groundwater. The transplanting dates were 21th January (T1), 15th February (T2), 7th March and 30th March.  Four rice cultivars were used. The results showed that the rice growth period was shortened with the later dates of transplanting. Generally, the yield of all cultivars at first and second transplanting (i.e. in T1 & T2) are good, and decrease at the later transplanting dates (T3, T4) and hence could not be recommended among farmers. When we consider the irrigation savings in T2 compare to T1, the irrigation savings varies with location and year, but the general tendency is that the second transplanting can save irrigation water. By considering economic (intrusion of additional rabi crop between two rice crops) and ecological factor (irrigation reduction, and hence reducing groundwater withdrawal), we recommend that the most suitable transplanting time for Boro rice should be 15th February. As such, we can effectively achieve good yield, reduce irrigation requirement, and creating opportunity for possible intrusion of addition Rabi crop between two rice crops. Overall, the findings of the present study can provide effective transplanting time and cultivar to reduce groundwater withdrawal in the present agro-ecosystem of northwestern Bangladesh and other similar areas.Keywords:  Boro rice, irrigation requirement, transplanting date, groundwater withdrawal, ecosystem
Challenges of Small Poultry Farms in Layer Production in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria.
Authors: Ogba O , Ahaotu Emmanuel , Ihenacho, R.O , Chukwu A O
Published: June 2020

The study assessed constraints to increased layers production among small-scale poultry farmers in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. Data were collected using a multistage sampling technique to select 120 small-scale poultry farmers. Descriptive statistics (frequencies counts, percentages) were used to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents. The result shows that the mean age of the respondents was 48 years and majority (77.5%) of the farmers had higher education. Majority of the respondents (73%) practiced sweeping and packing of dirt in the poultry house as the daily routine management on their farms. The major constraint faced by the respondents was disease and pest attack (76.7%) followed by difficulty in credit and loan procurement processes (73.3%). The study therefore recommends that Government should tackle the problem of loan/credit procurement, market price instability, disease and pest as well as proper funding of small-scale layers poultry business so as to enhance the commercialization of poultry industry in Nigeria.Keywords: Poultry Farms, Layer Production, Socio-Economic Characteristics, Constraints.
Growth performance, carcass characteristics and organoleptic properties of broiler finisher fed graded levels of ginger root meal (grm) basal diets.
Authors: Ehebha, E. T.E , Okosun S. E , Adomeh E. E. , Eguaoje Abiodun Stanley
Published: June 2020

An experiment to compare the effect of varying inclusion levels of ginger root meal (zingiber officianale)on growth performance, carcass and organoleptic qualities of finishing broiler chicken was conducted in the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of Department of Animal Science Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State. 150 ANAK 2000 day old chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments with diet 1 being the control (0%) and diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contain the inclusion levels of ginger root meal at 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0% respectively. In a complete randomized design (CRD),50 birds were assigned to each treatments with 10 birds per replicate. Performance parameters, carcass characteristics and organoleptic qualities were assessed. Result on the performance characteristics revealed that average final weight, feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio were significantly (P<0.05) higher in control similar to those on 1.5%GRM. Carcass characteristic study revealed that live weight, slaughtered, defeathered, eviscerated weights and dressing percentages were significantly (P<0.05) higher in birds fed the control similar to those on 1.5%GRM. Weight of shanks, breast muscles, neck and back were significantly influenced (P<0.05) with highest values recorded among birds fed 1.5%GRM. For organoleptic quality, appearance, flavour, juiciness, overall acceptance and calculated overall acceptance were all significantly (P<0.05) affected. It is therefore concluded that the dietary inclusion of ginger root meal in broiler diets at 1.5% inclusion levels had positive effects on the growth performance, carcass characteristics of the birds and organoleptic quality of the chicken meat.
Assessment of Nutritional Status of School–age Children in Suburban Area of West Bengal
Authors: Pramanik Purushottam
Published: June 2020

Objective: Objective of this study was to assess the nutritional status of primary school children between the age group 6 to 9 years considering reference values proposed by Indian Association of Pediatrics (IAP) and National Centre for Health Statistics (NCHS).

Methods: It is a cross sectional school base study. Six hundred and nine female and five hundred and twenty seven male primary school children were participated. Height- for- age, BMI- for- age and weight- for- age were used to assess nutritional status on considering reference values proposed by IAP and NCHS. Health status of the study population was assessed by Rohrer index. Prevalence of malnutrition was expressed in percentage.

Results: Significant percentage of children of both gender were suffering under-nutrition like stunting (IAP: female 56.3% and male 10.1%; NCHS:  female 64.9% and male 19%), thinness (IAP: female 36.4% and male 38.9%; NCHS: female 59.7% and male 61.5%) and underweight (IAP: female 37.5% and male 57.6%; NCHS: female 65.7% and male 73.6%). Over nutrition like higher body weight than standard (IAP: female 29.2% and male 18.1%; NCHS: female 15.5% and male 11.9%) and overweight and/or obesity was noted in study population. Under-nutrition was coincides with the finding of RI. More than 40% children of either gender were enjoy very low health status and more than 15% with high health status. Prevalence of malnutrition was higher in male than female children.

Conclusion: Present study highlights double burden of malnutrition among children living suburban area of Hooghly district. Thus to reduce both form of malnutrition it is essential to improve knowledge and awareness of personal hygiene and nutrition.
Geospatial Techniques for Paddy Crop Acreage and Yield Estimation
Authors: Desai Krishna , Rajesh N. L. , Shanwad U. K. , Ananda N. , Koppalkar B. G. , Desai B. K. , Rajesh V. , Kumara Kirana , Chandralekha .
Published: June 2020

Paddy crop acreage and yield estimation using geospatial technology were carried out in North Eastern Dry Zone (Zone-2) covering Shorapur taluk, Yadgir district, Karnataka state, India, during rabi late sown or summer 2016-17 season. The study area is located between 16° 20ꞌ to 17° 45ꞌ north latitude and 76° 04ꞌ to 77° 42ꞌ east longitude, at an elevation of 428 meters above mean sea level. The RESOURCESAT-1 LISS III satellite image of 31st January 2017, 24th February 2017, 20th March 2017 and LANDSAT-8 of 15th April 2017 were used for paddy crop acreage estimation at taluk level. Paddy signatures were identified using ground truth GPS data and then, these temporal imageries were subjected to NDVI classification and estimated the paddy biomass and further validated with the ground-truthing in corresponding to Green Seeker NDVI value. The estimated paddy crop acreage through imagery NDVI were 2145.75 ha, 17602.21 ha, 19838 ha and 23004.01 ha area during Jan-2017, Feb-2017, March-2017 and April-2017 respectively. When these results were compared with acreage estimates as reported by the State Department of Agriculture, shown a relative deviation of 11.41, 35.78, 23.01& 3.89 per cent for Jan-2017, Feb-2017, March-2017 and April-2017 respectively. Therefore, LandSat-8 NDVI paddy acreage has showed significantly on par with the ground truth data at the crop harvest stage. Relative deviation of 10.75 for yield comparison among imagery NDVI biomass yield with the DOA yield estimation infer that NDVI biomass yield estimation would give better result at 90 days after sowing. Positive correlation of NDVI values with estimated acreage and yield, indicates that application of remote sensing techniques for forecasting paddy biomass yield is more accurate, economical and could be beneficial to the policy makers for quick decisions.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Transmission Risk Factors in Primary School Children in Mbeere North Sub-County, Embu County, Kenya
Authors: Kamonge Samuel , Kamau Lucy , Muhoho Ngethe
Published: June 2020

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) such as soil transmitted helminths (STH) and protozoa can cause diverse negative effects on human health. The prevalence of IPI in primary school children in Mbeere North sub-county in Embu County is not documented, though there are many cases reported in health centers in the area. The aim of this study was to establish the current prevalence of IPIs in primary school children in Mbeere North sub-county and the factors that perpetuate transmission which is necessary for implementation of suitable control programs in the study area. The study was done among primary school children from nine public schools. Three schools per administrative ward were randomly selected to represent each of the three administrative wards. A total of 414 pupils whose parents/guardians gave informed consent participated in the study, 46 pupils per school. Each participant provided a thumb size of early morning stool. The stool samples were processed by Formol-ether concentration technique and direct wet preparation methods for microscopic identification of intestinal parasites. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on age, sex, sanitation and hygiene practices. The overall point prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections amongst the pupils was 43%. Chi-square (χ²) test was done to determine the relationship between prevalence and the pupils’ age and sex. There was no significant association between prevalence and sex (χ² = 0.184, P = 0.668, df = 1) but a significant association was found between prevalence and age where children 11 years and below were more pre-disposed than those above 11 years old (χ² =4.770, P=0.043, df =1). Similarly, a significant association was found between water source and prevalence of IPI; the parasites infection prevalence decreased when tap water was used and increased when open surface water was used (F = 6.15, P = 0.006). From this study, it is clear that IPIs particularly E. histolytica are a problem in primary school children in Mbeere North Sub-County. There is an urgent need for provision of safe domestic water in the county. Additionally, community education on sanitation and IPI transmission risk factors is urgently required. The information generated in this study is beneficial to the public health service in designing control strategies for areas of high transmission.
Phytochemical Screening and Antibacteria/ Antifungi Activities of Root and Shoot Extracts of Euphorbia hirta (Asthma Weed)
Authors: Adjeroh L. A. , Nwachukwu M. O. , Abara P. N. , Nnokwe J. C. , Azorji J. N. , Osinomumu I. O.
Published: June 2020

Medicinal plants, also called herbal medicine, have been used in traditional medicine practices since prehistoric times. The phytochemical screening of root and shoot extracts of Euphorbia hirta plant commonly known as asthma weed was evaluated using soxhlet and aqueous extract as a solvent to determine the active components. Maceration method was used in extracting the active properties/component. Phytochemical screening of root and shoot extracts revealed presences of saponins, anthranoid anthroqunione, phenol, alkaloid, tannins, phylobatannins and cardiac glycoside. Antibacterial screening of clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus pyogenes, using disk diffusion method, showed that in both the aqueous root and shoot extract Streptococcus pyogenes has the highest zone of inhibition of 120 mg with 12mm while least is Escherichia coli that had no inhibition at all. The aqueous extract the root and shoot were more active than the soxhlet solution. Using the aqueous shoot extracts, Streptococcus at 120 mg with 12mm zone of inhibition of Staphylococcus at 90 mg with 9mm. While in the aqueous root extract, Staphylococcus aureus at 100 mg with 10mm, Streptococcus pyogenes at 90 mg with 9m and Salmonella typhi at 80mm with 8mm. Antifungal screening with clinical isolate of candida albicans had highest zone of inhibition 130 mg with 13mm at root aqueous extract while penicillium spp, Aspergillus, spp and Microsporium spp showed no zones of inhibition at both root and shoot extracts. The results obtained suggested that Euphorbia hirta plant can be used in the treatment of ailments caused by the test microorganisms, with particular attention being paid to its aqueous extract.