bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laying performance and digestibility of nutrients by Japanese quails fed diets containing peeled and cooked sweet potato meal
Authors: Edache J. A. , Tuleun C. D. , Muduudtai R. U. , Yisa A. G.
Published: February 2021

A six–month feeding trial was carried out to investigate the effect of feeding peeled cooked sundried sweet potato tuber on hen-day egg production and digestibility of nutrients by Japanese quails. Five isonitrogenous (20%CP) diets were compounded. The control diet (A) had zero sweet potato tuber meal. In the other four diets, 25, 50, 75 and 100% of maize (respectively) was replaced by peeled cooked sundried sweet potato tuber meal. 300 point-oflay female Japanese quails were randomly assigned the diets in a completely randomized design with feed and water provided ad libitum. Each diet was allocated to 60 quail chicks which were further divided into three replicates of 20 birds each. Feed intake, body weight change, age at first eggs, age at 50% egg production, age at 75% egg production, hen-day egg production, hen-housed egg production and feed per dozen eggs were similar (p? 0.05) across the diets. Water intake was significantly (p? 0.05) or (p > 0.05) higher by birds on diet D (51.93ml/bird/day) than by those on diets A (42.60) and C (46.68ml/bird/day). Water intake by birds on diet A was significantly (p? 0.05) lower than by birds on the sweet potato diets. Dry matter digestibility was significantly (p? 0.05) better on diet C (70.54%) than on diets B (68.44) and D (68.54%). Ether extract digestibilitywas significantly (p? 0.05) better on diet E (67.60%) than on diets A (54.57), B (54.60), C (49.70) and D (51.42%). Crude protein digestibility was not affected by the diets. It can be concluded that peeled cooked sundried sweet potato can completely replace maize in the diet of laying quails without adverse effects on performance or on digestibility of nutrients.
Effect of fermented sorghum seed meal on the performance, carcass characteristics and blood profile of broiler finisher chicken
Authors: Esiegwu A. C.
Published: February 2021

Sorghum is a good and promising energy source that can replace maize in poultry ration. Thus, an experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of fermented sorghum seed meal (FSSM) on performance, carcass characteristics and blood indices of broiler finisher birds. Fermented sorghum seed meal (FSSM) was used to formulate four broiler finisher rations at 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% inclusion levels. Four groups of fifteen broiler chicks of Agrited breed were randomly assigned to four treatment diets in a completely randomized design and fed for 28 days. Each group was further subdivided into three replicates of five birds each. The average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio did not show any significant difference (p>0.05). The feed cost per kg weight gain decreased as the fermented sorghum seed meal increased. All the carcass parameters measured (% dressed weight, % thigh, % breast muscle, % wing) and the internal organ weights (heart %live weight (LW), gizzard %LW and liver %LW) were not significantly different (p>0.05). The haemoglobin (HB), packed cell volume (PCV) and red blood cell (RBC) increased significantly (p<0.05) as the FSSM increased. The white blood cell (WBC), mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), neutrophiles, basophiles, eosinophiles, lymphocytes and monocytes did not show any treatment effect (p>0.05). The biochemical indices revealed that urea and cholesterol increased significantly (p<0.05) at 20% and 30% inclusion levels of FSSM. Creatinine, total proteins, albumin, globulin and the electrolytes (Na, K, Co3 and CL) did not show any significant treatment (p>0.05) effect. The enzymes serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) increased significantly (p>0.05) at 20% and 30% inclusion levels of FSSM. It was therefore concluded that fermented sorghum seed meal could be incorporated into broiler finisher ration up to 30% level due to cost effectiveness at this level.
Growth performance and economics of production of cockerels fed graded levels of cassava (Manihot esculenta) grit basal diet
Authors: Okosun S. E. , Eguaoje A. S.
Published: February 2021

A sixteen week trial was conducted to assess the effects of replacing maize with cassava grit on growth performance and economics of production using 120 “Day old” Harco cockerel chickens. Four experimental cockerel starter and finisher diets were formulated. Diet 1 had 0% cassava grit (CG) while diet 2, 3 and 4 had maize replaced with cassava grit at 33.3, 66.6 and 100% replacement for maize. Chicks were randomly assigned to the four treatment diets in a completely randomized designed (CRD). Results on performance at starter phase revealed that average weekly weight gain and feed intake were significantly (P<0.05) highest among birds fed 33.3% CG. Feed conversion ratio was also significantly (P<0.05) influenced while at finisher the phase average live weight, weight gain and feed conversion ratio were significantly (P<0.05) higher among birds fed 33.3% CG compared to other levels of CG inclusion. Result on economics of production revealed that least cost of feed consume and cost of feed per kilogram weight gain at both phases were recorded among birds fed 100% CG. Income and net profit were highest among birds fed 33.3% CG. Therefore, Cassava grit can replace maize up to 33.3% inclusion level for optimum performance and good cost returns.
Evaluation of performance, carcass characteristics, serum biochemistry and hematological parameters of broilers fed graded levels of raw cocoa bean shell based diet
Authors: Olumide M. D. , Akinsoyinu A. O. , Hamzat R. A.
Published: February 2021

Competition exists between man and his livestock for conventional feed ingredients like maize. This has necessitated the search for alternative ingredients. Large quantities of cocoa bean shell are produced and wasted annually by farmers and associated processing industries in Nigeria. A total of one hundred and fifty day-old Anak broiler chicks were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments with 30 birds per treatment, replicated thrice, in a completely randomised design. The treatments were: A (0% CBS-control diet); B (5% RCBS); C (10% RCBS); D (15% RCBS) and E (20% RCBS). Birds were fed ad libitum throughout the experimental period of eight weeks. The feed intake and weight gained were monitored. Carcass analysis, serum and hematological parameters such as total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, glucose, creatinine, red blood cell, white blood cells, hemoglobin and packed cell volume were determined. Significant differences were observed in the feed intake, the birds fed with the control diet A had the highest feed intake 4556.50gm compared with birds fed diet D and E with mean values of 4177.50gm and 4097.00gm respectively. The highest weight gain was obtained from birds on control diet (1952.00gm) and the lowest from birds with 20% RCBS (1550.00gm, diet E). As the level of inclusion of RCBS increased the feed conversion ratio value increased. The dressed out percentage ranged from 73.67% - 67.00%. Apparent variations in the values obtained for total protein, creatinine, red blood cells, hemoglobin and packed cell volume of the birds fed graded levels of RCBS were not significant. However, white blood cells and globulin values increased with increase in the level of CBS in the diet. RCBS could effectively replace up to 10% maize in the diets of broilers without a deleterious effect on broiler chicken.
Anaesthetic and electrocardiograpic profiles in prolonged inhalation anaesthesia in Nigerian indigenous dogs
Authors: Sogebi E. A. O. , Hassan Z. A. , Rasaki A. I. , Talabi O. A. , Olukunle J. O. , Makinde O. A.
Published: February 2021

Electrocardiograph during anaesthesia provides information on cardiac electrical activity which may affect cardiac function. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of prolonged volatile anaesthesia using halothane and isoflurane on the electrographic and anaesthetic profiles in Nigerian dogs. They were prepared for anaesthesia and connected to a 5-lead patient monitor (GMI®). Venous access was secured and lactated ringer's solution administered at a maintenance flow rate of 5mlkghr-1.Tracheae were intubated following induction with thiopentone and anaesthesia maintained with 0.5% halothane (group A) and 2.0% isoflurane (group B) in 2liters/minute oxygen respectively with the animals breathing spontaneously. The readings were taken, prior to induction of anaesthesia (control) and every 30 minutes thereafter for six hours during anaesthesia. Data were presented as mean and standard deviation.Differences were considered significant at p≤0.05. The values of ST segment (sec) and P-waves (sec) were both low, 0.068 ± 0.013 and 0.064 ± 0.017 and 0.020 ± 0.001 and 0.020 ± 0.001 respectively for isoflurane and halothane. However the values of P-waves (mV) and P-R intervals (sec) were significantly higher in group A, (0.193 ±0.136 and 0.046 ±0.01) compared to group B, 0.193 ± 0.98 and 0.039 ± 0.01 respectively. Isoflurane produced prolongation of Q-T intervals (sec) and QRS complex (sec), 0.123 ± 0.018 and 0.023 ± 0.008 compared to halothane, 0.121 ± 0.023 and 0.021 ± 0.005. The ECG parameters measured revealed no adverse effect of halothane or isoflurane on the heart in Nigerian local dogs.There was prolonged QT interval in group B. In conclusion, halothane appears a better drug of choice in prolonged anaesthesia in Nigerian dogs.
Influence of breed-type and parity order on pre-weaning litter traits of rabbits raised in derived savanna zone of Nigeria
Authors: Adeolu A. I. , Oleforuh-Okoleh V. U. , Ibe S. N. , Nwachukwu E. N.
Published: February 2021

Pre-weaning litter traits such as litter size and weight at birth and weaning are of economic importance for profitable expansion of the rabbit industry. This study investigated the influence of breed-type and parity order on pre-weaning litter traits of three rabbit breeds raised in Nigeria. Data were obtained on purebred progenies, from three parities, of does belonging to Chinchilla, Dutch and New Zealand white breeds. Does were firstmatedat9-11month sof age.Traits evaluated include litter size and weight at birth and weaning (56 daysof age) and pre-weaning mortality rate. Highly significant breed-type and parity order effects (p<0.001) were found in litter size and weight at birth and weaning. The Chinchilla had 12.58% and 11.54% more kits at birth than the Dutch and New Zealand white breeds respectively.More kits (p<0.01) were also weaned by the Chinchilla.On average, litters from Chinchilla were heavier (42.74 ± 1.28g and 390.51 ± 5.14g at birth and weaning respectively) than those from Dutch and New Zealand white. Litter size and weight at birth and weaning were highest in the first parity (p<0.001). Pre-weaning mortality rate ranged from 19.47- 22.99% but was not affected by breed-type or parity order. The use of Chinchilla breed and selection criterion based on first parity litter traits is recommended for genetic and economic improvement of rabbits in Nigeria.
Physiological response of pullet chicks fed Moringa oleifera, Ocimum gratissimum and leaf meal-based diets
Authors: Adetoro B. O. , Olusola O. O. , Iyayi E. A. , Olaniyi T. A. , Adedeji O. Y. , Popoola M. A. , Saka A. A. , Yahya M. O. , Oyadeyi O. S.
Published: February 2021

Blood reflects the pathological status of animals exposed to toxicants and other conditions. Blood examination helps to clinically investigate the presence of metabolites and other constituents in the body of animals and plays vital roles in the physiological, nutritional and pathological status of animals. Blood constituents change in relation to the physiological status of an animal.A total of 144 one-day-old Isa-brown pullet chicks were randomly picked from a larger flock, weighed and distributed to groups with 4 replicates of 9 chicks each in a completely randomized design (CRD). Four feeds were formulated to meet the NRC requirement and allotted one each to the 4 group of birds. T1 was the control, T2, T3 and T4 contained 2% of Moringa oleifera, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amgydalina leaf meals respectively. At the end of the experiment which lasted for 8 weeks 2 birds were randomly selected from each replicate for haematological and serum boichemical examination. All the haematological parameters measured were not significant (P>0.05) except eosinophils while for serum biochemistry cholesterol and albumin to globulin ratio were significantly affected by dietary treatment ( P<0.05).The highest value (3.50 % eosinophils) was observed in the birds on diet 4 which had 2% of Vernonia amgydalina leaf meal and these birds also had the lowest (139.25 mg/dl) cholesterol value. It was therefore concluded that 2% of these leaf meals especially of Vernoniaamgy dalinacanbe incorporated in the diets of pullet chicks to reduce their blood cholesterol and boost the immunity
Growth performance, carcass characteristics and economics of production of broiler chickens fed graded levels of seed meal mixed with enzyme
Authors: Ewa U. E , Akinmutimi A. H , Ojewola G. S. , Onunkwo D. N , Adedokun O. O. , Uzoegbu H. , Adedokun O. O
Published: February 2021

One hundred and twenty (120), 1 week old broiler chicken were randomly assigned to 4 treatment diets in a completely randomized experiment that lasted 49 days. The diets were made with soya bean based diet (D1) as control and treatment diets D2, D3, D4 containing graded levels (7.5%, 10%, 12.5%) of boiled Mucuna sloanei seed meal mix with  enzyme(BME).Birdsfed diet 2 (7.5% BME) had higher final body weight 2216.70g. The test diets gave lower total feed intake value that was significantly (P<0.05) lower than that of the control. D2 gave the lowestfeed-to-gain ratio (1.72) that was significantly (P<0.05) different fromthoseof the control(2.09), D3 (2.08)and D4 (2.27). There was no significant difference (P>0.05)among birds fed the treatmentdietsand thosefed the control diet for dressed weight percentage and back cut percentage. D2had cost/Kg weight gain and gross margin (N190.44 and N686.97 respectively) that were numerically higher than those of the control (N272.75 and N660.68) but statistically higher than those of, D3(N241.45 and N505.29) and D4 (N274.45 andN387.71). Mucuna seed meal mixed with enzyme in this experiment was 7.5% which performed better than the control in all the parameters considered and is therefore recommended for replacement of soya bean meal in the diet of broiler chickens. Inclusion of Mucuna sloanei seed meal from 10% and above will not yield good carcass that would be comparable to the control (soya bean based diet) Mucunasloanei The optimal level ofinclusion of qualitativereplacementof the soya bean meal with boiled
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) and Phenols status in some smoked meat products in Nigeria
Authors: Fakolade P. O. , Ijiwade E. O. , Adeniyi A. P.
Published: February 2021

In under developed and developing country like Nigeria, meat is usually smoked at temperature usually above 400 C, producing Polycyclic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Phenols in meat Products. PAHs compound found in smoked meat exhibit a cancerous substance affecting human health while Phenols in smoked meat are responsible for the smokey aroma andtaste. 10kg of raw meat from semi-membranous muscles of 2 years old male White Fulani cattle was used for this study. The meat was cut into 2 kg each to prepare meat products namely; Kundi, Kilishi, Balangu, Suya and Asun using traditional and oven drying methods. Final samples were evaluated for PAHs, phenols, proximate composition and palatability status. Data were subjected to ANOVA at P<0.05. Results showed that, PAHs had significantly higher values (P<0.05) in Kundi Laboratory smoked, commercially Kundi and Kilishi (8.00µkg , 8.80µkg , 8.60µkg ) respectively while the least was found in Asun (2.10µkg ) for the three samples evaluated. Kilishi had the highest phenols (P<0.05) value (1.30µg), while the least was noticed in Asun having (0.10µg) in all the three samples evaluated. Kundi products had values significantly (P<0.05) higher in protein and ash content for all samples and theleast (P<0.05) in ether extract and moisture content. Balangu and Kilishi had the highest (P<0.05) ether extract while Asun had the highest (P<0.05) moisture content (51.26%, 59.26% and 58.45%) for all the samples evaluated. Balangu, Asun and Kilishi products were rated higher (P<0.05) by the panelists while Kundi products had the least. Irrespective of the processing methods used, the higher the temperature and duration used in smoking, the higher the PAHs and Phenols Compound and the more accumulatedthenutrientscomposition.
Growth performance and nitrogen utilization by West African dwarf goats fed supplemented with varying ratios of and Panicum maximum Afzelia africana Newbouldia laevis
Authors: Ikhimioya I. , Okoruwa M. I. , Ikhatua U. I.
Published: February 2021

Afzelia africana and Newbouldia laevis have recognizable potential as important locally available forage resources but yet to be explored and exploited for ruminants in the tropics. This study was therefore investigated to determine the effect of supplementing varying ratios of Afzelia africana and Newbouldia laevis with Panicum maximum on growth performance and nitrogen utilization of West African dwarf goats. Twenty female West African dwarf goats, aged between 5 and 7monhs old with an average weight of 6.62 ± 0.41kg were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments with four goats per treatment in a completely randomized design. The treatment diets included T (100% Panicum maximum), T  (25% Afzelia africana and 75% Panicum maximum), T (50% Afzelia africana and 50% Panicum maximum), T (25% Newbouldia laevis and 75% Panicum maximum) and T (50% Newbouldia laevis and 50% Panicum maximum). A metabolism trial was conducted at the end of the feeding trial to assess the effects of the diets on nitrogen utilization after the growth study on the goats. Results obtained showed that goats on diets T were significantly (P<0.05) higher in terms of final live weight (9.95kg), metabolic weights (6.20LW ), total weight gain (3.15kg) and growth rate (35.50g.d ) at (P < 0.01) while nitrogen intake (7.86g/d ), metabolic nitrogen intake (1.76g.kg LW ), nitrogen balance (6.81g.d ) were higher (P < 0.001) than goats on other diets. Urinary nitrogen output (6.81g.d ) was significantly (P<0.01) higher in goats on T compared with goats on other diets. No significant (P> 0.05) effect in treatment diets with regards to initial and average live weights, faecal nitrogen output, and total nitrogen output with nitrogen retention. It was concluded that goats fed 50% Afzelia Africana and 50% Panicum maximum had better nitrogen utilization for growth performance.
Nutrient intake and digestibility of West African dwarf goats fed graded levels of and as supplements to Afzelia africana Newbouldia laevis Panicum maximum
Authors: Ikihimioya I. , Okoruwa M. I. , Ikhatua U. I.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted to determine nutrient intake and digestibility of West African dwarf goats fed graded levels of Afzelia africana and New bouldia laevisas supplements to Panicum maximum. Twenty female West African dwarf goats aged between 5 and 7 months old with mean live weight of 6.62±0.41kg were allotted to five dietary treatments with two replicates of two goats per treatment in a completely randomised design. The compared diets were: T (100% Panicum maximum), T (25%Afzelia africana and 75% Panicum maximum), T (50% Afzelia africana and 50% Panicum maximum), T (25% New bouldia laevis and 75% Panicum maximum) and T (50% Newbouldia laevis and 50% Panicum maximum). A metabolism trial was conducted at the end of the feeding trial to assess the diets on nutrient digestibility after the nutrient intake study of the goats. Results obtained showed that total hemicelluloses intake (62.48g.day ) was significantly (p<0.05) higher in T compared with other diets. Total crude protein intake(43.45g.d) and hemicelluloses digestibility(92.20%)were higher significantly (p<0.001) and (p<0.01) respectively in T . Total lignin intake (36.22g.d )and organic matter digestibility (77.70%) were significantly better (p<0.05) and (p<0.01) respectively in T . Digestibility of neutral and acid detergent fibre (55.71% and 49.79%) were significantly higher (p<0.05) and (p<0.001) while dry matter digestibility (83.49%) was significantly better (p<0.01) in T than other treatment diets. Total dry matter, organic matter, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre and cellulose intakes with digestibility of crude protein, lignin and cellulose were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by treatment diets. It was concluded that the combination of Panicum maximum based diet with Newbouldia laevis in a ratio of 50:50 had the potential to enhance nutrient digestibility in goats.
Prevalence and Pathology of Bovine Tuberculosis among Cattle Population Slaughtered in Abeokuta Abattoir
Authors: Mshelbwala F. M. , Oladotun O. O. , Kadiri A. K. F , Abakpa S. A. V. , Nyillah E. L.
Published: February 2021

The prevalence of bovine tuberculosis among cattle population slaughtered in Lafenwa, Abeokuta, abattoir was determined and the pathology associated with the disease was described in the present study. The ages, sexes and total number of cattle slaughtered and examined was recorded over a period of six months (October, 2015 to March, 2016), out of which suspected cases of tuberculosis were sorted out. The prevalence of bovine tuberculosis was calculated as percentage of occurrence as overall, age and sex-specific; and gross lesions were described. Tissue samples of the lungs, liver, Intestine, lymph nodes were collected from the affected animals in two parts; one for Ziehl Nelson staining and the other was fixed in 10% buffered formalin for histopathology. Among the 25,875 cattle examined, an overall prevalence of 8.72% was recorded. Monthly prevalence varied from 5.28% in October to 11.33% in December, 2015. Sex-specific prevalence was higher in females (89.94%) than in males (1.0.06%). Gross lesions observed were severe and diffused necrosis in the lung parenchyma with marked creamy caseous yellowish nodules of variables sizes in 100% of the cases. In some cases, similar lesions were observed in the liver, intestine, heart, kidneys and lymph node. Histopathological lesions in the lung and extra-pulmonary organs were severe necrosis with calcified centers; and there were granulomatous inflammation. Ziehl Neelsen stain demonstrated reddish bacilli suggestive of Mycobacterium organisms. There was an increase in the cases of tuberculosis among cattle population slaughtered in Lafenwa abattoir when compared with those reported in previous studies.
Nitrogen fertilizer on yield of fodder maize, chemical composition, its preference and digestibility by Sokoto Gudali heifers
Authors: Nwamo A. C. , Adegbite J. A. , Olorunnisomo O. A.
Published: February 2021

The lack of high yielding quality fodder for ruminant production is still a major problem to livestock sector in Nigeria. Fodder yield is primarily determined by nitrogen levels in the soil which is often limiting in tropical soils. This study evaluated four levels of nitrogen fertilizer application (0, 100, 150 and 200kg N/ha) on fodder yield of maize, chemical composition, its acceptability and digestibility by Sokoto Gudali heifers. Treatments were replicated three times on plots measuring 4mx10m in a completely randomized design. Forage was harvested at 42 days after planting (DAP) and fodder yield (tons/ha) per plot was determined. Samples of forage from each plot were taken for chemical analysis. Eight heifers were used to evaluate acceptability and twelve heifers for digestibility of the fodder using standard procedures. The biomass yield increased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing levels of nitrogen fertilizer with the highest yield (9.06tons/ha) recorded at200kgN/ha also increased significantly (P<0.05) with increased levels of nitrogen across the treatment. The highest CP (23.25%) and NDF (75.15%) were recorded at 200kg N/ha and the lowest CP(17.51%) and NDF(71.40%) at 0kgN/ha. Preference of heifers for maize fodder reduced with application of  fertilizer while digestibility of the maize fodder increased up to 100kg N/ha and thereafter reduced.
Haematological and serum biochemistry of broiler finisher treated with toasted (Mahogany Seed) mealAfzelia africana
Authors: Oko E. C. , Urom S. M. O. C. , Okorie K. C. , Onunkwo D. N. , Abu E. B.
Published: February 2021

The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of Afzelia africana (Mahogany) seed meal on the haematology and serumbiochemistry of broiler finisher. One hundred and twenty (120) four weeks old broilers were assigned to four treatment groups, T (control),T ,T and  T at a level of 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% respectively, each treatment group was replicated into 3 of 10 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. Feed and water was given ad- libitum for the period of the experiment (35 days). The result of the study shows reduced level of cholesterol and Total protein as the level of Afzelia africana increases from150gm/100mlto100gm/100 mls and 7.00 to 4.5% respectively, and increase in the levels of the following as the level of Afzelia africana increases, Bicarbonate (HCO3), ALT and ASTfrom 18.5mmol/L to 19.1mmol/L, 16iu/L to 22.1iu/L and 10 to 17.6 iµ/L respectively. Haematological report indicate reduction in the following with increase in Afzelia Africana seed meal, WBC from 4,700x10 /dlto3,500x10 /dl,HBfrom8.9-7.0g/dl, PCV% from 29% to 22%, MCH 18–14 and platelets count from 207, 066 to 13, 300. While there were no changes in the Neutrophil lymphocytes, Eosinophils, Monocytes, Basophils and MCHCP. With the above result, the blood chemistry thus indicate evidence of anaemia, this could be as a result of the processing method (toasting only) of Afzelia Africana seed. Afzelia africana, though used by human without negative effect should not be used in birds unless further studies are carried out on the detoxification of the toxic phytochemical components.
Chemical characterisation of commonly used dietary oils in broiler production
Authors: Abokede T. V. , Ogunwole O. A. , Tewe O. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to characterize different dietary oils commonly used in broiler chicken production. Soybean oil (SYO), Palm-kernel oil (PKO), Sheabutter (SHO), Coconut oil (CO) and Groundnut oil (GNO) were each assayed for their physical and chemical characteristics using standard procedures. The CO had higher (P<0.05) saponification value (14.55mg/KOH) compared to SHO (60.80mg/KOH), which was lowest. ThePKO had significantly higher (P<0.05) acid value (mgKOH/g) (3.65), comparedwithSHO(0.90). The GNOhad the highest (18.08) for iodine value while PKO (4.71). Peroxide value was highest (P<0.05) in PKO (76.73) and lowest in SYO (4.98). Fatty acid profile was significantly affected by dietary oil sources. The SYBO was higher (P<0.05) in arachidonic acid (2.25) compared with CO (0.07) while Linoleic acid was highest in CO (19.72) compared to GNO (18.05) that had the lowest value. Linolenic acid concentration was higher in GNO (3.14) than SHO (0.16). The CO (8345.06±57.79) had the highest levelof totalcarotene compared withSHO (1550.26 ±12.43) while GNO was highest in .45) content while PKO was lowest (25.59 ± 0.35).The different oils have variedinherent chemical compositionswhichwhen deployed as ingredient,may have different impact on performance of broiler chickens
Sexual dimorphism in morphological characteristics of two Nigerian indigenous goat breeds
Authors: Alphonsus C. , Akpa G. N. , Barje P. P. , Nwagu B. I. , Orunmuyi M. , Sam I. M. , Achi N. P.
Published: February 2021

Themorphological traits of 594 indigenous goats comprised of 316 and 279 Red Sokoto goat (RSG) and West African dwarf (WAD) goats, respectively, were measured to determine the presence or otherwise of sexual dimorphism in the morphological characteristics of the two indigenous goats. The morphological traitsmeasured were body length (BL), withers height (WH), rumps height (RH), heart girth (HG), body depth (BD), tail length (TL), head length (HL), head width (HW), ear length (EL), and horn length (HL). Also recorded were body weight (BW) and sex of each animal.The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance of fixed effect of sex on themorphological characteristics. The result revealed the presence of marked sexual dimorphism in morphological characteristics of both the RSG and WAD goats. The adult females were significantly (P< 0.05-0.01) heavier and larger in size than the males. The respective coefficients of variation (CV) between breeds were high in most of the morphological traits suggesting high heterogeneity, an indication of the amount of opportunity available for improving the breeds through selection.
Effect of replacing maize with sorghum, millet or 'acha' on the growth and carcass characteristics of broiler
Authors: Haladu S. , Sonaiya E. B.
Published: February 2021

Maize,which suppliesmost of the energy in poultry feeds, has low yields inNigeria and there is competition for the limited harvest of maize between industrial, livestock and human needs. Thus, this study was carried out to evaluate the effects on the growth and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens of replacing the high inputs grain,maize,with a low inputs grain, 'acha', or medium inputs grains, sorghum and millet. Four isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets for both the starter and finisher phases were formulated with maize, sorghum, millet and 'acha' as the main source of energy and were used as treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively.Marshall broiler birds were brooded up to 2 weeks before the treatments were introduced that lasted six weeks.Up to 8 weeks of age, body weight, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio and mortality were recorded weekly. The results of the study show no significant differences (P>0.05) between the four treatments in final body weight and average daily gain but birds on treatment 4 ('acha') had significantly lower feed intake and superior feed conversion ratio than the other experimental diets. Itwas concluded thatmaize can be replaced with sorghum, millet and 'acha' without adverse effects on the performance of broiler chickens.
Germination percentage and emergence potential of nine newly introduced temperate forage germplasms in Shika, Nigeria
Authors: Ishiaku Y. M. , Hassan M. R. , Abubakar S. A. , Amodu J. T. , Abdu S. B. , Tanko R. J. , Ahmed S. A. , Bala A. G. , Akpenseun T. T , Ogungbesan A. M. , Bello S. S. , Suleiman A.
Published: February 2021

A trial was conducted to investigate the germination percentage and emergence potential of nine imported temperate forage germplasms at the National Animal Production Research Institute, Shika, Nigeria. The seeds consisted of seven grasses namely; Beefsteak plant (Fructus perillae), Sweet elephant grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides), Wild foxtail millet (Setaria viridis), Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum), King grass (Pennisetum sinese), Chinese sorghum (Sweet sorghum) and Zea mexican schard (Purus frumentum) and two legumes namely; Chinese woad (Isatis tinctoria) and Chinese alfalfa (Medicago sativa). A laboratory germination test and pot emergence trial was carried out to ascertain their viability. The result of the experiment showed that Sweet elephant grass, napier grass and king grass recorded over 90 % germination and the least was 30 % in Chinese sorghum. Chinese alfalfa and wild foxtail millet had least germination percentage with 100 % Seed dormancy.Highest emergence rate, seedling length and seedling vigour indexwere observed in king grass than the other forage germplasms. The highest percentage emergence was obtained in king grass > sweet elephant grass > napier grass > Zea mexican schard > beefsteak plant > Chinese woad > Chinese sorghum, respectively. It was concluded that these forages can successfully be adopted as animal feed resources in Nigeria and therefore, recommended formulti-locational trials in all the ecological zones of the country.
Evaluation of polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio in the fat of different chicken types Ke
Authors: Oyewale A. O. , Sonaiya E. B.
Published: February 2021

Samples were taken from the liver and the abdominal fat of the carcasses of male and female broilers (meat type), layers (egg type) and locals (dual purpose type). Lipids were extracted and subjected to volumetric analysis, iodine number determination, thin layer chromatography (TLC)with iodine staining and high performance liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) to determine the polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acid (P/S) ratio. The result showed that female chickens, meat type chickens and abdominal fat samples had higher (P<0.05) lipid quantities than male chickens, layer and dual purpose chickens and liver samples, respectively. The P/S ratio of lipids extracted fromthe abdominal fat and fromthe liver did not differ (P<0.05) fromeach other.
Performance, carcass characteristics and feed cost Benefits of broilers fed processed Mucuna sloanei seed meal
Authors: Ewa U. E.
Published: February 2021

The performance of broiler chickens fed boiled, boiled with potash (akanwu) (BWA) or boiled and mix with enzyme (BME) mucuna seed meal( MSM) were investigated. 120 a week old broiler chicken were randomly assigned to 4 treatment diets in a completely randomized experiment that lasted for 49 days. The diets were made of control (soya bean based), D2 (5% boiled MS), D3 (5% BWA MSM) and D4 (5% BME). The proximate composition of mucuna was determined. Other parameters measured were: feed intake, weight gain, and carcass characteristics of broilers. The crude protein content ranged from 22.10-22.16%, while the energy level ranged from 2996.10-3003.60kcal/kg. For growth performance, significance differences (P<0.05)exist for final body weight, ,total weight gain, daily weight gain and feed to gain ratio except for initial body weight, total feed intake, daily feed intake and mortality. BME gave the best growth performance in terms of significant (P<0.05) higher final body weight (2566.50g), total weight gain (2489.20g), and better feed to gain ratio (2.25) than the control which had: 2198.30g, 2095.10g and 2.56 for FBW, TWG and FGR respectively. For the carcass characteristics, chickens fed diet 4(BME) was not significantly (P>0.05) different from the control for dressed weight and dressed weight percentage. Control diet had the highest breast cut (31.87%) and diet 4 had the lowest (28.57%) while D4 had the highest thigh cut (18.34%) but the control had the lowest (16.41%). For cost per kg weight gain and gross margin, D4 gave 235.03 and 708.64 respectively, which compared (P>0.05) with the control ( 231.71, 746.68). The revenue and gross margin valuesobserved were direct indices of the biological effects observed in the growth performance (Table 4). From the above, Diet 4 which is boiled mucuna seed meal mixed with enzyme is therefore chosen as the best in terms of cost/Kg weight gain, revenue and gross margin in that it compared favorably with the control diet (D1).
Growth performance, carcass characteristics and economics of broiler chicken fed graded levels of raw Mucuna sloanei seed meal
Authors: Ewa U. E. , Amaefula K. U. , Akinmutimi A. H.
Published: February 2021

Growth performance, carcass characteristics and economics of broiler chicken fed graded levels of raw Mucuna sloanei seed meal were investigated. A total of 150, 1- day old broiler chickens were used. There were five treatments each replicated into three with 10 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. Five treatment diets were formulated. Diet 1served as control, while diets 2, 3, 4, and 5 had 5, 10, 15, and 20 %, respectively of raw mucuna seed meals (RMSM) added to them. The experiment lasted 49 days. The parameters considered were growth performance, carcass characteristics and economics of production. For growth performance, the result revealed that RMSM significantly (P<0.05) depressed growth as the levels of inclusion of RMSM increased from 0 to 20%. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in all the parameters considered under growth except for initial body weight and mortality. There was progressive loss in final body weight as the level of mucuna inclusion increased from 0% to 20%. Control recorded the highest live body weight of 3023.30g while, birds fed diet with 20% mucuna had the least body weight of 504.43g. Among the birds placed on the test diets, birds fed diet with 5% mucuna seed meal performed significantly (P<0.05) better (1840.00g) than other test diets. Birds fed diets with 10 and 15% mucuna had final body weight of 1180.00 and 726.67g, respectively. The progressive l oss in weight was obvious early in the experiment and at 8 weeks of age the broiler fed 20% raw mucuna. Mucuna sloanei based diet weighed only 504.43g (16.68% of the control) as against 1840.00, (60.86% of the control) for that fed 5%.mucuna. Percentage dressed weight and percentage breast and thigh were significantly (P<0.05) higher for chicken fed control diet. 10% level of raw MSSM gave highest value for drumstick (14.91%) while control gave the least (13.00%). 5% raw MSSM (27. 71%) compared favourably with control (30.60%) for breast cut. Gross margin significantly decreased from N1459.80 for control diet to N 14.20 for D5 as the percentage inclusion of MSSM increases from 0 to 20%. In conclusion, birds fed raw Mucuna sloanei seed meal diet could not compare favourably with those fed soya bean based diets even at 5% level of inclusion. Processing is therefore recommended to enhance performance.
Use of feed additives in animal agriculture: gut response in broilers
Authors: Ofongo - Abule R. T. S. , Etebu E.
Published: February 2021

Feed additives such as enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics and acidifiers are few examples of suitable alternatives to in – feed antibiotics in animal agriculture due to the ban of antibiotic use. However, the Nigerian poultry industry still experiences cases of antibiotic use. The gut benefits of alternatives to antibiotics often culminate in improved growth performance but there are or may be certain gut responses that attribute to the observed performance of poultry birds. In order to ascertain this, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of antibiotic administration and enzyme supplementation on gut pH and bacteria counts. One hundred and fifty day-old broiler chicks were randomly distributed to three dietary treatments having five replicates and 10 birds per replicate. The experiment lasted forty – two (42) days and was arranged as a completely randomized design. A maize- soybean meal diet not supplemented with antibiotic or enzyme served as the control. Birds fed diet II had antibiotic (Dicoxin plus ®) administered to them. Birds fed diet III had their diets supplemented with enzyme (Roxazyme G2G®). Results indicated pH of the crop to be significantly (P<0.01) reduced by feed additive. The pH of the Ileum was least (5.65) under antibiotic administration but was not significantly different (p>0.05) different that of birds fed control and enzyme supplemented diet. Gizzard pH was acidic but not significantly (P>0.05) across all the treatments. Lactobacillus and Coliform counts were significant (P<0.05) affected by feed additive addition. It can be concluded that feed additive impact on gut pH can influence the type and population of bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract.
Phenotypic and genotypic variability between two Nigerian indigenous goat population
Authors: Ojo O. A. , Akpa G. N. , Orunmuyi M. , Adeyinka I. A.
Published: February 2021

In order to estimate the future breeding potential of a livestock breed, it is necessary to estimate the level of genetic diversity within the breed. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the phenotypic and genotypic variability within the West African dwarf (WAD) goats and a non-descript goat population. The WAD goats were obtained from Bodija market Ibadan, Oyo state, while the non-descript goats were obtained from the Animal Science Departmental Farm in Zaria, Kaduna State. Random collection of tissue samples was carried out on each goat population using an all flex ear punch tissue sample collector and aliquoted into plastic tubes containing the all flex preservative. DNA extraction, amplification and sequencing were carried out at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya. DNA was extracted from the tissue cells using the Pure Link™ Genomic DNA-minikit according to the manufacturer's specifications and protocol and 25 microsatellite markers as recommended by FAO/ISAG were used for genotyping. Twenty three of the 25 microsatellite markers used in this analysis had four or more alleles. The mean Shannon index (I), observed (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He) and inbreeding coefficient (Fis) for the WAD goats were 1.568, 0.584, 0.679 and 0.167, respectively. For the non-descript goats, the mean Shannon index, observed and expected heterozygosity and inbreeding coefficient (Fis) were 1.607, 0.678, 0.721 and 0.041, respectively. The microsatellite markers used in this study showed their suitability for analysis of genetic variability in this population as demonstrated by the high mean Shannon index. This study has shown that these two goat populations are significantly different phenotypically and genetically. Also, both populations showed significant deviations (P<0.01) from Hardy-Weinberg expectations.
Nutritional contents of processed Delonix regia seeds incubated in vitro with Pennisetum purpureum
Authors: Olufayo O. O. , Falola O. O.
Published: February 2021

The effect of processing on proximate, mineral, anti-nutritional compositions, gasproduction characteristics, methane production, predicted metabolizable energy, organic matter digestibility and short chain fatty acids production of Delonix regia seeds incubated with Pennisetum purpureum were determined. Five treatments (T1: mixture of soaked Delonix regia seed and Pennisetum purpureum; T2: mixture of raw Delonix regia seed and Pennisetum purpureum; T3: mixture of roasted Delonix regia seed and Pennisetum purpureum; T4: mixture of boiled Delonix regia seed and Pennisetum purpureum and T5:100% Pennisetum purpureum which serves as control) were designed. In vitro gas production techniques for 24 hours were used to determine the nutritive value of processed 50% Delonix regia seed and 50% Pennisetum purpureum. The crude protein ranged from 13.38 to 15.71g/100g DM among the treatments while crude fibre was between 20.10 and 21.40g/100g DM, ether extract ranged from 1.90 to 3.12g/100g DM and ash 7.77 to 12.34g/100g DM. Calcium ranged from (2.34 - 3.61%), magnesium ranged (2.90 – 3.48%), sodium (2.05 – 2.91%) and phosphorus (0.88 – 1.12%). It was observed generally that T2 recorded the highest among the treatments while the values obtained for the heat treated seeds were lower than the raw. Oxalates ranged between (0.23% - 0.32%), phytates (0.29 – 0.43%), tannin (0.03 – 0.08%) and saponnin (0.36 – 0.49%). Methane (ml/200mg DM) production indicated T3 (50% roasted Delonix regia seed and 50% Pennisetum purpureum) was highest. The potential gas production 'a+b' ranged from 12.33 to 28.33mL/200mg DM). The highest potential gas production 'a+b' value of 28.33mL/200mg DM was obtained in T1 compared to other dietary treatment. Dry matter digestibility (DMD) ranged between 70.23 – 91.02% while the rate of fermentation was between 0.51 and 1.18ml/hr. The rate of fermentation was directly proportional to dry matter digestibility (DMD); the soaked recorded the highest value. Processing enhanced the nutritional contents of Delonix regia seeds. The result obtained showed that there were significant differences (p<0.05) among the treatments. In conclusion, soaking the seeds of Delonix regia had beter nutritional contents and has the potential for dry season feeding.
Computational Genomics of RELA gene of Pig and its protein prescription
Authors: Oluwole O. O.
Published: February 2021

RELA gene is a pleiotropic transcription that is present in almost all living cells where several signal transduction events end points were initiated by many arrays of stimuli that were related to many biological processes such as inflammation, immunity, differentiation, cell growth, tumorigenesis and apoptosis in the cells. The nucleotide and amino acid sequence (AAS) of RELA gene of pig and other mammalian species were downloaded from the National Center for Biotechnology information (NCBI) data base, United State of America and Universal protein resources (Uniprot) database, United Kingdom. Data generated were analyzed by bioinformatics tools. The results showed a high variation of AAS among the mammals where only four mammals have the same AAS length (551) with pig while others were not. The RELA gene of pig shared very high percent identity with all mammals ranging from 95.5% (warthog) to 83.5% (guinea pig) and similarity percentage ranged from 85.1 to 99.5% where the warthog had the highest percentage value while the least mammal was Guinea pig. The tree showed RELA gene with two clades; the first for mammals and the second for non-mammals. The RELA gene of pig was in the same cluster with the other Suidae family, warthog and babirusa. For the protein structure obtained, only 43% can be meaningfully predicted from the 61% residues modelled at more than 90%. The domain architecture of RELA protein structure contained mainly RNA Recognition motif and region of low complexity. The domainstarting position of all the organisms ranged from 191 to 210 while the termination of all the mammals ranged from 102 to 306 amino acids.The region of low complexity starting point ranged from position 173 to 462while termination positions ranged from 184 to 474. The evolution relationship of RELA gene of pig and other mammalian species were highly related and conserved among the mammalian species; they have high comparability and they evolved from common ancestors.
Effect of dietary Thais coronata shell on odour reduction and nitrogen output in rabbit farm
Authors: Ozuo U. K. , Ukachukwu S. N. , Odoemelam V. U.
Published: February 2021

This work investigated the effect of integrated forage-concentrate diets with Thais coronate as additive on reducing odour and nitrogen output in rabbit production. Thais coronate shells were thoroughly washed, dried and ground to 2mm particle size. Forty-five growing rabbits were fed diets comprising 25% forage and 75% concentrate with 0%, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75% or 1.0% ofthe shells for two weeks in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. The treatments were designated T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively with 9 rabbits per dietary treatment and replicated thrice with 3 rabbits per replicate. Faeces and urine were collected and odour perception scored by 10-member panel on a 5-point scale. The mean odour perception scores of T1 (urine =4.02, faeces=3.55) represented the strongest (P< 0.05) degree of pungency while T4 (urine=3.05, faeces=2.76) gave the least (P<0.05) pungent odour. Average total nitrogen yield from treatment 1 (2.93g/day) was significantly higher than those from treatments 3 (2.53g/day) and 4 (2.31g/day) but similar to those from treatments 2 (2.74g/day) and 5 (2.70g/day). Inclusion of T. coronata shell at0.75% in a forage-concentrate (T4) diet of rabbit reduces odour in rabbit production and elicits the least yield of nitrogen.