bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Food Security Situation of Tiv Farming households in Nigeria
Authors: Ivanda DP , Igbokwe EM , Olatunji OM
Published: March 2021

The study assessed the food security situation and living conditions of Tiv farming households. Respondents were drawn from farming households in Benue, Taraba and Nasarawa States. Data was collected from 315 heads of households using interview schedule, and the data were analysed using means and food security index. The study found that enhanced ICT use (M=2.47) and increased competition (M=2.40) were perceived conditions that were found to be attributed to their agricultural operations. The analysis of food security situation shows that majority (64.1%) of these households were food secured. This could be because those strategies for ensuring food security is working for majority of the families. Also on the strategies put in place to ensure households’ food security were the use of high yielding crop varieties (M= 1.60), mixed cropping (M=1.53) and use of early maturing crop varieties. It was recommended that governments in these states should support various extension agencies by funding these agencies to be involved in the dissemination of these technologies that enhance the food security of the farmers.Key words: Food security; Tiv farming families; strategies
Extension Activities for Arable Crops Production in Akure South Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ayodele O.V. , Akindele M.O.
Published: March 2021

The study examined agricultural extension activities for arable crops production in Akure South Local Government Area (LGA), Ondo State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select respondents. Data were collected using interview schedule, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square. Most respondents (65.6%) were male, 77.1% had formal education with a mean age of 47 years and an average household size of five (4). Furthermore, 80.2% had less than five hectares of land for arable crop farming while 40% of the respondents farmed for family consumption only. Major source of extension services was government agencies. The most accessed services were; choosing of planting dates and introduction to improved seedlings with a mean score of 3.18 and 3.13 respectively. A significant relationship existed between farmers’ perception about extension service and most socio economic characteristics such as; age (χ2 =57.92, P≤0.05) and farm size (χ2 = 65.283, P≤0.05). The study concluded that extension services in the study area were highly accessed and that farmers have high perception about extension services. It recommends more private agencies participation in extension services.Keywords: Extension service, arable crop farmers and perception.
Feasibility of Adoption of Structured Grain Trading System in Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Jaji M. F. O , Abanigbe S. A. , Kolawole R. B. , Raymond V. C.
Published: March 2021

The study examined the feasibility of adoption of the structured grain trading system (SGTS) in Ogun State, Nigeria. It investigated the current grain trading system in the study area, identified policy and structural changes that needs review for successful adoption of structured grain trading system, investigated the perception of the people involved in the grain value chain, and identified the bottlenecks that may restrict efficiency of structured grain trading system. The population of the study covers mainly rice farmers, and other stake holders involved in rice value chain in Ogun State, who were selected using snowball technique. Questionnaires were used to obtain data from the respondents. Results from the study shows that the majority of the benefits derivable from using the structured grain trading system were not found in the present system of grain marketing; such as the use of warehousing receipt as collateral for loans. Conclusion drawn based on the perception of the stake-holders involved in rice value chain was that the structured grain trading system is highly preferred. The system can be implemented only if the infrastructures such as: roads, electricity, market information services, and standard storage structures are put in place.Key words: Adoption, grains trading system, Nigeria.
Climate Change and Nutrition Security in Nigeria
Authors: Ifeanacho MO , Okudu HO
Published: March 2021

Climate change is a global reality and a major concern of many countries of the world. Its average impacts are the same globally but with some regional peculiarities. This paper reviewed the global events of climate change and its reality in Nigeria. It observed that the world’s climatic elements have been undergoing changing pattern for a long period. Its reality in Nigeria was seen in changing rain pattern, relative humidity, atmospheric temperature, rising sea level, coastal flooding, erosion, desertification and drought among other indicators of climate change. These events were viewed vis-à-vis their impacts on nutrition security. The paper related these events to such drivers of food insecurity as food shortages; increase in crop and animal diseases; shortage of portable water; poor sanitation; loss of rural livelihood and different forms of pollution-related diseases. Measures were suggested for integration into government programmes and policy that will help in mitigating and adapting to the impact of climate change on nutrition security

Keywords: Climate change, nutrition security, mitigating, adapting, Nigeria
Effect of soil amendments on leaf pigmentation and N status in cassava (Manihot esculenta crantz) grown in crude oil contaminated soil
Authors: Osu S.R. , Ndaeyo N.U. , Udofia G.E.
Published: March 2021

Growth studies on TMS 30572, NR8082 and Local cassava cultivars grown on previously crude oil polluted soil were conducted to assess effects of oil palm bunch ash (OPBA), dried poultry manure (DPM) on Leaf pigmentation and N2 status of test crops. In addition, physical and chemical properties of soils were determined. The pH was raised from 5.62±1.50 in control soil to values that ranged between 6.97±1.23 to 9.24±1.89 in soil treated with organic amendment. The result of organic amendment ensures reduction of C: N ratio from 50:1 in control to critical threshold that ranged between 8:1 – 10:1 for improved decomposition and soil quality. SPAD measurement revealed no significance (P≤ 0.05) in readings for both treatments and control experiments. However, the interactive effect of both cassava variety and type of amendments were significant. Cultivar TMS 30572 was found to be brought to high productivity under treatment with combined OPBA + DPM and recorded highest chlorophyll content per unit area of leaf surface with Chl. a/Chl.b ratio of 2.13 and thicker leaf blade. While Leaf chlorophyll is directly associated with the efficiency and capacity of the photosynthetic apparatus and hence chlorophyll content in this study was found to be directly related to good health status of the test crops. Results revealed that quality of crude oil contaminated soil was greatly enhanced by organic amendment.
Socio-ecological impacts of water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (MART.) in Lake Tana, Gulf of Gorgora, Ethiopia
Authors: Endgaw Flipos
Published: March 2021

Water hyacinth is one of the aggressive alien aquatic macrophyte threatening biodiversity, economic development and human wellbeing. Currently, the macrophyte has invaded Lake Tana and its catchment causing several socio-ecological impacts. So far, there is limited information on socio-ecological impact of water hyacinth in Lake Tana specifically gulf of Gorgora. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to assess socio-ecological impact of water hyacinth in Lake Tana gulf of Gorgora, located in North West of Ethiopia from November 2019 to January 2020. Two sampling sites (infested and non-infested) were identified based on infestation of water hyacinth. A total of 30 water and 12 water hyacinth samples were collected with a survey of 50 individuals. Results revealed that water quality, phytoplankton diversity, fishing, navigation, health condition of local people, recreational and aesthetic value were impacted negatively due to infestation. Conversely, higher accumulation of toxic heavy metals and dissolved metallic ions in the root, stem and leaf of the macrophyte impacted positively. Infestation of the macrophyte significantly affected water quality and species diversity of Lake Tana. In the infested site; DO (3.3 to 4.5), SRP (0.012 to 0.023 mg L-1), TP (0.24 to 0.28 mg L- 1), NO3-N (0.74 to 0.97 mg L-1) and TN (2.1 to 3.2 mg L-1) were significantly (p < 0.01) lower than non-infested site. Generally, infestation of water hyacinth negatively impacted the society and the ecology in Lake Tana catchment. Therefore, continuous monitoring and management of the macrophyte is required.
Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Parameters in Earthworm (Esiena fetida andrei); a Probable index of Environmental Pollution Status
Authors: Asagba S.O. , Ichipi-Ifukor P.C. , Okwudibie C.
Published: March 2021

Oxidative stress and antioxidant responses in earthworms were investigated for use as an index for environmental pollution. The study was done in  three test locations (Refinery road, Okere market and PTI roundabout) in Warri an industrial city in Nigeria and Abraka a less industrial city as  control. Levels of five stress and antioxidant parameters; lipid peroxidation (LPO), aldehyde oxidase (AO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) catalase (CAT) and ascorbic acid (Vit. C.) were used. There was observed significant (p<0.05) rise in LPO (5.83±0.456, 5.83±0.456, 4.04±0.58, 4.25±0.475, 2.09±0.425), oxidative enzyme (AO) levels (0.011±0.00012, 0.008±0.0021, 0.0058±0.0013, 0.0022±0.00009) and increase in activities and levels of the antioxidants (SOD: 24.0±3.80, 12.0±3.80, 16.0±4.62, 5.6±2.8; CAT: 0.98±0.013, 1.08±0.061, 0.95±0.018, 0.93±0.0125 and Vit. C: 0.175±0.0172, 0.118±0.0148, 0.109±0.014, 0.072±0.004) respectively in all study locations in Warri compared to Abraka. These changes were significantly higher in refinery road compared to other locations (Okere market and PTI) in Warri. There were also significant (p<0.05) negative relationship between LPO and SOD activities (r=-0.677), AO and CAT(r=-0.718) as well as AO and SOD(r=0.661) activities respectively only in the refinery road area while no significant change (p>0.05) were reported in other locations. The combined data showed significant negative relationship (p<0.01) between LPO and AO(r=-0.719) and a significant positive relationship (p<0.01) between LPO and (SOD r=0.710, Vit C r=.884). It further showed significant (p<0.01) negative relationship between AO and CAT (r=-0.486), SOD and Vit C (r=-.648), and significant (p<0.01) positive relationship between Vitamin C and (SOD r=-0.865, CAT r=0.785). It was concluded that rise in levels of the studied antioxidants and LPO in earthworms found in Warri compared to Abraka may have occurred in response to industrial pollution, thus may be used for environmental monitoring.

Keywords: Environment, Pollution, Oxidative Stress, Antioxidants and Earthworm
Dietary Fibre and Micronutrient Potential of Underutilized Green Leafy Vegetable Sprinkles on Selected Foods
Authors: Babayemi B.A. , Adepoju O.T.
Published: March 2021

Considering the rural poor in developing countries like Nigeria, diets that are deficient in dietary fibre and micronutrients are common. Food  diversification or dietary modifications such as increased consumption of vegetables may solve the problem. This study assessed the dietary fibre and micronutrient levels of selected starchy foods (jollof rice and yam porridge) using three underutilized green leafy vegetables, namely, Ebolo (Crassocephalum crepidiodes), Odu (Solanum nigrum L), and Yanrin (Launaea teracifolia L) as sprinkles. Fresh samples of Crassocephalum crepidioides, Solanum nigrum L, and Launaea teracifolia were purchased from Ota market. The leafy parts of the vegetables were washed, cut, oven-dried at 90°C for 6 h and pulverized. Jollof rice and porridge were cooked and 2g each of dried ebolo, odu and yanrin were sprinkled on 100g of each food and stirred thoroughly. Total dietary fibre, as well as iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn) content of the resultant diets, were determined using standard methods. The highest total dietary fibre of 8.45% was obtained in jollof rice sprinkled with Yanrin. Zn (31.75mg/kg) was highest in jollof rice sprinkled with Yanrin, and Fe (87.75mg/kg) in porridge sprinkled with Ebolo. The underutilized vegetables added more nutritional values to jollof rice and yam porridge as Ebolo, Yanrin and Odu were sprinkled on them.

Keywords: Underutilized vegetables, dietary fibre, micronutrient, zinc, iron
Heavy Metals in Fish Muscle from an Ethiopian Rift-Valley Lake (Hawassa) and a Neighboring Stream (Boicha): Assessment of Human Health Risks
Authors: Samuel B. , Sorsa S. , Daniel F. , Riise G. , Zinabu G.M.
Published: March 2021

Concentrations of heavy metals (Cr, Co, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Pb and Hg) in muscle tissues of two fish species (Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus) in an Ethiopian rift-valley lake (Hawassa) and a neighboring stream (Boicha) were determined. Target hazard quotients (THQ), hazard index (HI) and target cancer risk (TCR) were used as indices to evaluate potential human health risks from fish consumption. Average concentrations of metals decreased in the order Zn>Fe>Se>Cu>Hg>As>Ni>Cr>Co>Pb and Zn>Fe>Se>Cu>As>Hg>Cr>Ni>Pb>Co in muscle tissues of C. gariepinus and O. niloticus, respectively. Mean concentrations of Hg (0.34+0.04 mg kg-1) in muscle tissues of C. gariepinus from Lake Hawassa, and As (0.18+0.05 mg kg-1) as well as Hg (0.46+0.03 mg kg-1) in muscle tissues of C. gariepinus from Boicha stream were above the safety limits set by WHO/FAO. Likewise, mean concentrations of As (0.31+0.03 mg kg-1) and Hg (0.19+0.05 mg kg-1) in muscle tissues of O. niloticus from Lake Hawassa and Cr (0.19+0.03 mg kg-1), As (0.33 +0.04 mg kg-1), and Hg (0.34+0.09 mg kg-1) in O. niloticus from Boicha stream were also above safety limits. From the results of human health risk assessments it was concluded that Cr, Cu, Hg and As pose potential health risks due to consumption of the two fish species from both water bodies. Moreover, effects of all heavy metals put together may affect human health as indicated by the high HI. Effluents from industries are assumed to be the main sources of the heavy metals. Therefore, regular monitoring of the water bodies and policy interventions with respect to waste disposal are recommended to protect the health of the ecosystem and the public.

Keywords: Fish consumption, health risk, heavy metals, Lake Hawassa
Phytochemical Screening and Antibacterial Activities of Aframomum melegueta (K. Schum) Seed Extracts on Salmonella typhi and Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Chomini M.S. , Peter M.K. , Ameh M. , Chomini A.E. , Bassey E.A. , Ayodele A.O.
Published: March 2021

The phytochemical screening and antibacterial effects of Aframomum melegueta (K. Schum)on Salmonella typhi and Klebsiella pneumoniae was carried out. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, anthraquinones, terpenoids, glycosides  and phenols in the seed extract. The susceptibility test showedzones of inhibition (ZOI) of S. typhi (11.0mm) and K. pneumonia (13.0mm)with methanolic seed extract (MSE), while the hot aqueous seed extract (HASE) recorded 3.0mmas ZOI for both test organisms. The Minimum  inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 200mg/ml and 100mg/ml were recorded against S. typhi and K. pneumoniae respectively with MSE, while HASE indicated 400mg/ml and 200mg/ml MICs against S. typhi and K. pneumoniae respectively. The Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) obtained from MSE were 200 mg/ml and 25mg/ml for S. typhiand K. pneumoniae, while HASE had > 400mg/ml for test microbes. The effectiveness of different concentrations of the test plant extracts on the test organisms was significant (P<0.05). Further trials involving other clinical isolates and botanicals at different concentrations be conducted, to optimize theprocess.

Keywords: Phytochemical, Antimicrobial, Aframomum melegueta, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae
Incidence of Maize Streak Disease in Maize Cultivated During Late Cropping Season in Three Agricultural Zones of Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Time I. , Nwogwugwu J.O. , Batcho A.A.
Published: March 2021

Maize, an important staple crop is emerging as cash crop particularly for smallholder farmers in Nigeria. This paper evaluates the frequency of maize streak disease on maize sown during late cropping season in three agricultural zones of Benue State, with three maize cultivars; Super 98, Obasuper 1 and a local cultivar at the University of Agriculture Makurdi Research Farm using standard methods. Maize plots were sampled for streak disease from July to November. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA with means separated using FLSD(p=0.05). Spread of maize streak was low (< 20.0%) across the agricultural zones. It was, however, significantly different (p≤0.05) among the zones with 17.2% average, although reached 19.2 % at Zone B in one occasion. Streak severity was equally significant (p≤0.05) but high (3.6%) across zones, reaching its peak, 3.7 at Zone C while zone B (3.4) was least. Disease spread among the LGAs in the State equally differed significantly (p<0.05). Gwer West (21.8%) and Otukpo (19.3%) had the highest spread. Lowest percentage spread of 12.7% and 14.0% were recorded in Konshisha and Katsina Ala, respectively. Streak severity also differed statistically (p<0.05) among the LGAs. Ado and Konshisha were highest with 3.9 and 3.7, respectively while Gwer West, which was highest for disease spread was least in severity. Disease spread in maize experimental plots was more or less comparable to spread in farmers' fields. It was low averaging 10.3%, in plots while severity of disease was high (≥3.5) in experimental plots.

Keywords: Benue State, Disease spread, Late season, Maize streak, Zea mays
Influence of Sprouting on Proximate and Anti-nutritional Factors of Jacbean (Canavalia ensiformis) Flour
Authors: Odedeji J.O. , Akande E.A. , Ayinde L.A. , Alade O.A.
Published: March 2021

The influence of sprouting on proximate and anti-nutritional factors of Jackbean flour was investigated. Jackbean was procured from the Genetic Resources Unit of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria. The seeds were carefully sorted and sprouted for 10 days. The sprouted and unprocessed (control) bean were then milled into flour and thereafter assessed for proximate and antinutritional factors. The data generated were subjected to statistical analyses using SAS 2.0 and SPSS 20.0 packages. The results of influence of sprouting on proximate constituents and anti-nutritional factors revealed that sprouting for nine days (S5) resulted in flour sample with highest protein content and significant reduction in anti-nutritional factors most especially trypsin inhibitor from 32.08 + 0.13; 29.18 + 0.46 in control to 39.50 + 0.06; 18.33 + 0.03 in the sprouted samples respectively. Sprouting thus had positive effect on proximate and anti-nutritional factors of Jackbean flour.

Keywords: Proximate, jackbean, anti-nutritional, sprouting
Sustainable development goals, extractives industries and the energy nexus – insights in the Mena Region
Authors: Kilani John
Published: March 2021

Sustainable development is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges the world continues to face today. We live in a world where more than 800 million people still live in extreme poverty; one out of nine people are starving; 2.5 billion lack access to clean water; and 1.3 billion people have no access to modern electricity. It is against this backdrop that the world leaders in September 2015 adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, enshrining the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – a new, universal set of goals, targets and indicators that all UN Member States are expected to use for framing their sustainable development agendas and policies until 2030. This article seizes the opportunity to engage in the ongoing discourse on the contributions from major sectors to the realization of the SDGs, particularly in the face of growing world population. The purpose of the article is to explore the role of the energy sector in the implementation of sustainable development agendas, particularly in the MENA region. The article finds that the region’s diverse circumstances and substantial petroleum and natural gas reserves make it an ideal region for typifying the central role of energy in today’s world. The article explores, under five themes, some pertinent issues relating to the UNSDGs and their connectivity to energy, drawing illustrative examples from four countries – one small resourcerich country (Qatar), one relatively large resource-rich country (Saudi Arabia), the largest country from North Africa (Egypt), and a country grappling with the challenges of reconstruction after years of strive andinstability (Iraq). The article highlights that some of the countries are successfully unlocking the benefits of economic growth, through the  development of their natural resources. It concludes that, through concerted efforts to address some challenges, extractive sector operations can play significant roles in advancing the SDGs in the entire region.

Keywords: Sustainable Development; UNSDGs; Energy; MENA Region.
Addressing Residual Liability and Insolvency in Disused Oil and Gas Infrastructure Left in Place: The Cases of Brazil, Nigeria, and Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Pereira Eduardo G. , Taiwo Tolulope O. , Ole Ngozi Chinwa
Published: March 2021

This article analyses the decommissioning framework for oil and gas infrastructures in Brazil, Nigeria, and Trinidad and Tobago. It examines whether the existing provisions in each country are able to guarantee that the government and, by extension taxpayers, do not bear the costs of decommissioning and, the consequences of insolvency on residual liabilities. An additional motivation for this examination is the ongoing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), a pandemic with significant adverse impacts on the oil and gas industry. A likely consequence of the economic devastation from this is the insolvency of any party with decommissioning obligations.The article argues that the provisions of the Brazil petroleum legislation on the reversion of abandoned installations to the government could imply that taxpayers have to bear the residual liabilities without any compensation from the concerned concessionaires or contractors. It also argues that the provisions of the Petroleum Law to the effect that ‘the reversion of facilities does not entail any expense whatsoever for the Brazilian government ’does not certainly translate to pecuniary compensation to the latter for assuming the future residual liabilities from abandoned installations. The Nigerian and the Trinidad &Tobago Decommissioning Framework also suffer the latter risk of the government bearing the residual liabilities for such disused installations.In Nigeria, the framework is silent on who bears the residual liabilities for disused installations. However, it is argued that the provisions of the Production Sharing Contracts on the transfer of ownership to the Nigerian government implies that they would have to bear eventual liabilities for such disused installations. Even in cases where the licensee or contractor may bear the burden of residual liabilities, the problem of future insolvency and cessation of such companies may entail that taxpayers bear the burden of residual liabilities. The article concludes with key recommendations on how to address the identified gaps using lessons from best practices such as United Kingdom, Norway and United States of America. One of such proposals is on the allocation of liability where there is a transfer of interest. Another is for joint and several or at least secondary liability of responsible parties even after decommissioning activities are over; a recommended provision to this effect is also provided. The third recommendation is on how time-constrained residual liability can be used alongside lump sum payments to limit the State's financial exposure for decommissioning costs.
The Political Prohibition Clause of the World Bank Charter and the Legal Implications for the Fight against Corruption in Africa
Authors: Lemdjo Franck Maxime Yankam
Published: March 2021

Article 4(10) of the World Bank Articles of Agreements (hereafter referred the World Bank Charter) adopted in 1944 prohibits World Bank staff from taking political factors into account in their operations and loans decisions for projects of development. Article 4(10) has been at the heart of a sound debate that is reviewed in this paper in relation to human rights and corruption. The discussion is a step further of the colloquium referred as the “Justice and Development Week” organised in November 2010 by the World Bank Legal Vice Presidency Law held in Washington- USA. The purpose of that international meeting was to examine the political prohibition clause in International Development Finance. One of the issues raised during the seminar was the interpretation of the World Bank Charter particularly its Article 4(10).This article discusses the matter and focuses mainly on major issues of the political clause: First, the historical reasons of the insertion of the political prohibition clause in the World Bank Charter and the arguments in support of as well as in opposition to such a restrictive approach by the Bank to engaging with corruption and human rights issues. Second, an analytical discussion of the Bank’s economic perspective and exclusive definition to corruption followed by the legal discrepancies of such a regime of sanctions in comparison with those set by UN and AU anti-corruption conventions.
Occurrence of Cryptosporidium species coproantigens on a University teaching farm in Nigeria
Authors: Akinkuotu OA , Fagbemi BO
Published: March 2021

This study was carried out to assess the potential of animals, used for teaching and research, as a source of Cryptosporidium infection for students and staff of a University in Nigeria. Faecal samples from 185 animals reared on the teaching and research farm were collected and examined for Cryptosporidium spp. antigens by the use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). From all the samples evaluated, 35.7% (66/185) were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. antigens with an infection rate of 30.6% (15/49), 40.7% (22/54), 43.9% (18/41) and 26.8% (11/41) for cattle, sheep, goats and pigs respectively. The rate of infection was significantly higher (p<0.05) in pre-weaned animals (63.6%) than in the post-weaned (23.6%) and adult (29.1%) animals. The infection rates, 54.8% and 42.3%, for diarrhoeic and female animals were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in non-diarrhoeic and male animals respectively. The presence of coproantigens of Cryptosporidium spp. observed in stool samples of ruminants and pigs suggests that these animals may be considered as a potential reservoir of this protozoa, that is able to contaminate the environment, infect other domestic and wild animals and in some cases humans.Keywords: Cryptosporidium, ELISA, Nigeria, Pigs, Ruminants
Cryptosporidium infection in cattle in Ogun state, Nigeria
Authors: Akinkuotu OA , Fagbemi BO , Otesile EB , Dipeolu MA , Ayinmode AB
Published: March 2021

The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in cattle faeces in Ogun state, Nigeria was determined by a commercially produced enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Out of a total of 200 samples, 37.5% were positive for Cryptosporidium coproantigens. The highest rate of infection (78.1%) was observed in calves up to 3 months of age while adult cattle over 4 years of age had the lowest rate of infection (25.0%). There were significant differences (p<0.05) between the infection rates of the different age groups of cattle sampled. There was however no significant difference (p>0.05) between the infection rates in males (41.2%) and females (33.6%). Furthermore, the infection rate in diarrhoeic cattle (43.2%) was not significantly higher (p>0.05) than in non-diarrhoeic cattle (32.4%). The result of the study showed that the prevalence of cryptosporidiosis is high in cattle in southwestern part of Nigeria with calves being at the highest risk.Keywords: Cattle, Cryptosporidium, ELISA,Ogun state Nigeria.
Evaluation of poultry processing practices, related public health laws and diseases of chickens at slaughter: A pilot study in Kaduna state
Authors: Oladiran OG , Kabir J
Published: March 2021

Poultry processing procedures and environment are integral to the quality and safety of meat derived from poultry. The existing practices used in the slaughter and processing of poultry and the disposition of poultry workers towards poultry inspection in four major live bird markets in Kaduna were evaluated using structured questionnaires administered to 30 marketers, 51 processors, 19 marketers/processors and each market manager respectively. Background public health regulations related to poultry production and processing as provided within the Meat Law (1968), Food and Drug Act (1974) and Animal Diseases (Control) Act (1988) were also assessed for gaps that could compromise quality and safety of poultry products in Nigeria. The diseases detectable at postmortem inspection of 1000 poultry carcasses processed in these live bird markets were documented. Live bird market workers were all males mainly between 20-39 years of age and had secondary school education (64%). Majority (51%) consist of poultry processors, largely ignorant of public health laws. Up to 95% and 74% of the workers will welcome routine ante-mortem and post mortem inspection respectively. Lesions related to Newcastle disease had the highest frequency of occurrence (41.6%) amongst inspected birds. Existing laws have made provisions to ensure that animal production and processing are coordinated for the benefits and health of the general populace. Laws evaluated have gaps that could compromise various stages of quality assurance along the poultry value chain, lack specificity in terms of addressing specific issues of poultry hygiene and did not adequately empower the veterinary services to enforce measures that will ensure safe poultry products. Hence, the revised Animal Disease Control Edict and Meat Hygiene Act should be passed into law, Nigerian live poultry market workforce needs training on poultry processing precautionary public health measures, and the use of protective clothing should be made mandatory. Keywords: Inspection, Legislation, Poultry, Processing, Public health
Effect of intranasal recombinant Mannheimia haemolytica vaccination on some haematological indices of goats infected with peste des petits ruminants virus
Authors: Tenuche OZ , Emikpe BO
Published: March 2021

There is dearth of information on the haematological changes associated with Mannheimia haemolytica vaccination in goats, hence this report which describes some haematological changes observed following vaccination with intranasal Recombinant Mannheimia haemolytica vaccine in goats naturally infected with peste des petits ruminants (PPR) virus. Twenty one (male, n=11; and female, n=10) goats were assigned to three vaccinated groups (A, B and D) with five goats per group (male: 3, female: 2), while the control group had 6 goats. Group A was vaccinated once intranasally, group B was vaccinated intranasally twice at one week interval and group D was vaccinated intranasally twice at two weeks interval . The control group (C) was not vaccinated. The vaccinated and control groups were challenged by comingling with pneumonic goats to simulate the field experience. PPR virus infection was later diagnosed in all the groups post vaccination. An average of four animals per treatment group in post-vaccination days were bled once weekly for six weeks (every week) to evaluate some haematological changes. The PCV values were within the normal range, while there was a decline in lymphocyte count at week 5, and a steady increase in neutrophil count in group A. In Group B, there was similar decline in lymphocyte count from the sixth week, while in groups C (Control) and D, the lymphocyte count declined at the 7th week, as the neutrophil counts increased. There were no significant changes in monocyte and eosinophil counts. The degree of changes in lymphocyte and neutrophil counts was mild in group B and marked in group D. This study revealed that intranasal vaccination of recombinant Mannheimia  haemolytica vaccine in the presence of PPR virus outbreak results in mild hematological derangement when the goats were vaccinated with  Mannheimia haemolytica bacterin at a week interval.Keywords: Goats, Haematology, Intranasal Recombinant Mannheimia haemolytica, Peste des Petits Ruminants, Vaccination
Prolonged whelping in bitches
Authors: Ajala OO , Ajani OS , Leigh OO , Obudu CE , Akirinmade JF , Olusoji MJ , Ekanade OA
Published: March 2021

Physiological whelping occurs at the end of gestation and involves the expulsion of fetus/pups through the genital tract aided by natural forces. These reports draw the attention of practitioners and breeders to the possibility of some unusual events during whelping and precautions to be taken in its management. They also highlight some unethical practices by breeders that may put in jeopardy processes and outcome of whelping. Two bitches separately presented to a Veterinary Hospital with history of dystocia were investigated. The dystocia was characterized by prolonged inter-whelping interval (more than 72 hours) in the first and unproductive labour in the second. Administration of appropriate doses of oxytocin led to the relief of the dystocia in both cases. The misuse of oxytocin by breeders was probably responsible for alteration in whelping events. The above reports suggest that dystocia should be thoroughly evaluated, an appropriate obstetric management regimen be established, strict enforcement of regulations guiding drug handling by non-professionals should be recommended.Keywords: Bitch, Dystocia, Oxytocin, Unethical practices, Unusual whelping
Brucella infection in migratory cattle herds in Jigawa State Nigeria: A cross sectional study
Authors: Mohammed F.U. , Ibrahim S. , Musa G.A. , Kaltungo B.Y. , Danbirni S. , Kwaga J.K.
Published: March 2021

A cross sectional study on Brucella infection was carried out in Jigawa State in order to evaluate seroprevalence and transmission exposure factors among migratory cattle herds. A total of 1,810 cattle of different ages and sexes were systematically selected from 147 herds across four agricultural zones in the State and screened using Serum Agglutination Test (SAT) while closed ended questionnaire was used to evaluate exposure factors. From the results out of the 1,810 (serum samples) (3.37%) tested positive. Females showed higher seropositivity (3.6%) to the infection, compared to males (2.7%). Cattle of age 4-5 years had the highest prevalence (7%), compared to 3-4 years (4.5%), 2-3years (2%), 1-2years (0.8%), with no positive reactor among cattle of less than one year (0%). Seropositive animals according to the locations was found to be highest in Zone III (5.2%), followed by Zone IV (3.9%) and Zone I (2.4%), and least in Zone II (1.5%). A higher herd prevalence was recorded in Zone III (29%), followed by Zone IV (21%) and Zone I (17%), with lowest in Zone II (12%). The overall herd prevalence was 20.4%. There was association between herds that do not practice quarantine, raise multiple species, share communal  pastures and water points with Brucella infection (P< 0.05) and they are more likely to acquire the infection as indicated by odds ratio. In conclusion the results have indicated that Brucella infection exists in the studied herds and some exposure factors were identified. It is hereby recommended that herd owners should practice quarantine of newly purchased animals, avoid herding multiple species of animals  together, carryout routine testing and minimize contacts at grazing and water points.

Keywords: Brucella, Cattle herds, Exposure factors, Jigawa State, SAT, Seroprevalence, Serum
Preparation and Characterization of Colon-Specific Microspheres of Diclofenac for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Dang T , Cui Y , Chen Y , Meng X , Tang B , Wu J
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To prepare and evaluate colon specific drug delivery system of diclofenac sodium for highly localized delivery to the colon.Methods: The colon specific drug delivery system was prepared as matrix-type microspheres using Ethyl Cellulose (EC), Cellulose Acetate Phthalate (CAP), and Eudragit L 100-55 by the Solvent Evaporation Method. Microspheres were evaluated for physical properties like drug content, particle size, bulk density and angle of repose.Results: The size range of the microcapsules was 228 to 608 μm while drug content was between 74.49 and 91.50 % depending on the polymer used and the  polymer ratio. Mean bulk density was < 1.2 g/ml which indicates the good flow properties, while angle of repose was < 40 o, indicating free-flowing properties. The microspheres were spherical in shape with smooth and nonporous surface, except that the microspheres containing EC and CAP exhibited a rough and porous  surface. The microspheres containing Eudragit L 100-55 in combination with other polymers gave better sustained release (78.9 and 76.6 % at the end of 8 h for  formulation F4 and F5, respectively) than the others.Conclusion: Microspheres prepared with drug: EC: CAP ratio of 1:2:1 show the highest drug content, possess good flow properties and surface morphology, as well as promising drug release for colon specific drug delivery of diclofenac sodium for possible treatment of colorectal cancer.Keywords: Diclofenac, Colorectal cancer, Microspheres, Ethyl cellulose, Cellulose acetate phthalate, Eudragit L 100-55
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Nematicidal Essential Oil ofValeriana amurensis P Smirn ex Kom (Valerianaceae) Roots and its Activity against Heterodera avenae
Authors: Li YC , Ji H , Li HT
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To investigate the chemical composition and nematicidal activity of the essential oil of Valeriana amurensis roots against cereal cyst nematodes (Heterodera avenae).Methods: The essential oil of V. amurensis roots was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromaotography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The nematicidal activity of the essential oil and its major constituents was determined against second stage juveniles of H. avenae.Results: A total of 33 components of the essential oil were identified. The major constituents were bornyl acetate (12.5 %), patchoulol (11.6 %), caryophyllene (8.2 %), 3-methylvaleric acid (7.3 %) and isovaleric acid (6.5 %). The essential oil exhibited nematicidal activity against H. avenae with a medium lethal concentration (LC50) value of 311.6 μg/mL. The major constituents, isovaleric acid and 3- methylvaleric acid, exhibited nematicidal activity against H. avenae with LC50 of 218.2 and 683.8 μg/mL, respectively.Conclusion: The study indicates that the essential oil of V. amurensis roots and its two major constituents, isovaleric acid and 3-methylvaleric acid, have a potential to be developed to natural nematicides for the control of cereal cyst nematodes.Keywords: Valeriana amurensis, Heterodera avenae, Nematicidal activity, Isovaleric acid, 3- Methylvaleric acid, Essential oil, Cereal cyst nematodes
Dimedone Derivative {2-[(4-Hydroxy-phenylamino)- methylene]-5,5-dimethyl-cyclohexane-1,3-dione} Plays an Important Role in Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Song L , Kang H , Liu D , Dai Z , He J , Wang B , Zhao Y , Wang X , Xi W
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of 2-[(4-hydroxy-phenylamino)-methylene]-5,5-dimethyl-cyclohex (HPDH) on mammary carcinogenesis induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene in female Sprague Dawley rats.Methods: Among three groups of rats (50 each) used in the study, the control group was fed standard diet alone, ibuprofen group received standard diet containing 1200 mg/kg ibuprofen while HPDH group was administered standard diet containing 1200 mg/kg HPDH. The treatment was for 10 days for all the groups. All the animals received 20 mg of DMBA intragastrically by gavage. Clinical parameters for the rats were recorded weekly. Micrometer caliper was used to measure the diameter of all the tumors at the end of the experiment and tumor volume calculated. Histological evaluation was performed using  hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the level of HPDH and ibuprofen in the serum of the animals.Results: The data revealed a significant decrease in the number of rats with mammary tumor, number of tumors/rat and tumor volume by 54, 72 and 75 %, respectively, in HPDH group compared to control group. The ibuprofen- treated rats also showed significant decrease in the number of rats with tumor, number of tumors/rat and tumor volume by 43, 55, and 59 %, respectively. Treatment of rats with HPDH increased the latency period of tumor induction significantly (p < 0.005). Median detection period (50 % of tumors) was 92, 83 and 56 days, respectively, in HPDH, ibuprofen and control groups, respectively, after DMBA induction.Conclusion: These results demonstrate that HPDH possesses strong chemopreventive activity against mammary carcinogenesis.Keywords: Carcinogenesis, Mammary tumor, Median detection period, Tumor, Latency period, Chemopreventive activity, Ibuprofen
Development and in-vitro Evaluation of Once Daily Tablet Dosage Form of Loxoprofen Sodium
Authors: Zaman M , Sarfraz RM , Adnan S , Mahmood A , Hanif M , Qureshi J , Chaudhary MT , Akram MA , Bashir I
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To formulate and characterize once daily controlled release tablet of loxoprofen sodium.Methods: Eudragit RS-100, hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and pectin were used as release retarding polymers. All the formulations were prepared by direct compression method. Various precompression studies were carried out to determine Hausner’s ratio, Carr’s index, angle of repose, bulk density and tapped density Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies and also post-compression studies to evaluate hardness, friability, weight variation, drug content, in-vitro drug release were conducted on the tablets. The drug release data were subjected to kinetic models, including zero order, first order, Hixon Crowell, Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas.Results: Compressibility index (7.6 ± 1.32 - 12.5 ± 1.43%), Hausner’s ratio (1.08 ± 0.04 - 1.14 ± 0.03), angle of repose (27.78 ± 0.47 - 30.49 ± 0.46°), hardness (6.25 ± 0.27 - 7.21±0.21 kg/cm2), friability (0.14 ± 0.06 - 0.28 ± 0.0 %), weight variation (249.5 ± 2.09 - 251.35 ± 2.41 mg) and drug content  (97.30 ± 0.28 - 103.70 ± 0.31 %) were within generally accepted limits for the pre-and post-compression formulations, respectively. The tablets having the maximum amount of among the three polymers tested as matrix materials, HPMC, represented by F3 tablets, exerted better sustained release properties after 12 h. Release pattern was more of Fickian diffusion followed by Higuchi mechanism.Conclusion: The release of the loxoprofen sodium was optimized up to 12 h.Keywords: Loxoprofen, Sustained release, hydroxypropyl methylcelluose, Pectin, Eudragit, Matrix tablets
Bergenin suppresses the growth of colorectal cancer cells by inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Gao Xucan , Wang Yazhu , Zhang Jianzhuo , Lin Lifen , Yao Qi , Xiang Guoan
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To investigate anticancer effects of bergenin on human colorectal cancer cell lines.Methods: Human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line HCT116 was treated with various concentrations of bergenin for 24 and 48 h. Cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level were analyzed by MTT, flow cytometry and fluorescent dye assays, respectively. DNA damage-associated protein expressions were analyzed by Western blotting.Results: Bergenin significantly suppressed the viability of HCT116 cells. Moreover, bergenin induced cells to accumulate in G1 phase and resulted in DNA breaks in HCT116 cells. It also led to marked accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), a breaker of DNA strand in HCT116 cells. Interestingly, bergenin inhibited PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.Conclusion: Bergenin effectively suppresses the growth of colorectal  adenocarcinoma by inducing generation of intracellular ROS, DNA damage and consequent G1 phase arrest via inhibition of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.Keywords: Bergenin, Colorectal cancer, DNA damage, Cell cycle arrest,  PI3K/AKT/mTOR
In vivo anti-inflammatory activity of Liquidambar formosana Hance infructescence extract
Authors: Ma Haoran , Wang Fuqian , Jiang Jie , Cheng Lu , Zhang Hong , Zhang Geng
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of Liquidambar formosana  Hance infructescence (Liquidambaris fructus, ELF) in vivo, and clarify its underlying mechanisms. Methods: The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of ELF was examined by xylene-induced ear swelling test in mice as well as carrageenan-induced paw edema method in rats. The levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10) in serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while the expressions of COX-2, iNOS and NF-κB p65 in paw tissue of rats were evaluated by western blot.Results: After ELF treatment, the levels of TNF-α (p < 0.001), IL-1β (p < 0.001) and IL-6 (p < 0.001) in serum decreased and the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 increased (p < 0.01). In addition, ELF treatment resulted in decrease of COX-2 (p < 0.01), iNOS (p < 0.01) and NF-κB p65 (p < 0.01) expressions in Wistar rats.Conclusion: The results reveal that ELF possesses significant anti-inflammatory effect in vivo. The anti-inflammatory activity is associated with the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 in serum. Furthermore, the suppression of NF-κB p65, iNOS and COX-2 is linked to its anti-inflammatory effect. These results provide a rationale for the use of Liquidambaris fructus in inflammatory disease in traditional medicine.Keywords: Anti-inflammatory activity, Liquidambaris fructus, Cytokines, Ear swelling test, Paw edema