bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PHYSICOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SERBIAN HONEYDEW HONEY
Authors: Živkov Baloš Milica , Jakšić Sandra , Popov Nenad , Vidaković Knežević Suzana , Ljubojević Pelić Dragana , Pelić Miloš , Polaček Vladimir , Milanov Dubravka
Published: June 2020

Th e aim of this study was to investigate the composition and quality of Serbian honeydew honey. For this purpose, the physicochemical characteristics of 14 honeydew samples were analyzed. Th e physicochemical characteristics of all honeydew honeys from Serbia analyzed in this research can be considered to be within the parameters prescribed for honeydew in general. Th e sum value of glucose and fructose, the content of sucrose, water, hydroxymethylfurfural, acidity, and diastase activity were in line with European and national regulations for honey, for all investigated honeydew samples. Out of a total of 14 tested honey samples, 1 sample did not comply with the national regulations for honey regarding electrical conductivity. According to our results, in most of investigated samples the fructose/glucose (F/G) ratio was greater than 1.11 and glucose/water (G/W) ratio was close to 2. Th is means that they can be categorized as medium-crystallizing honeys. Th e results obtained in this study indicate excellent quality, absence of undesirable fermentation, acceptable freshness and proper manipulation of Serbian honeydews.
EXAMINATION OF BRUCELLA OVIS (OVINE EPIDIDIMYTIS) INFECTION IN SHEEP
Authors: Grgić Živoslav , Vidić Branka , Savić Sara , Milovanović Aleksandar
Published: June 2020

Brucella ovis is caused by clinically manifested disease named ram epididimytis. The causative agent is a gram-negative coccobacillus or short rod, facultative intracellular pathogen. The diseases is characterized by genital lesions manifested in a form of epididimytis and plecentitis in sheep, but the in fection may also be subclinical. The consequences of this disease are reduced fertility in rams, frequent abortions in sheep and in creased perinatal mortality. Most of ten the infection enters into a flock through in fected rams, that shed great num ber of Brucella, however passive genital transmission is the usual way of infec tion. B. ovis causes inflammation of epididymis, semen and influences the fertility of rams, but in sheep it causes abortion and placentitis. Rams are more susceptible than sheep, and the disease affects adult animals. The diagnosis based only on clinical identification most of ten is not sufficiently reliable, so the samples of semen, vaginal swab, milk and the smears of susceptible tissues are taken and then stained, microscop i cally examined and cultivated on nutritive agar. Our examination encompassed sheep and rams from the munic ipalities in South ern Bačka and Srem district, as well as the samples from Middle Banat. The examination included also the rams with clinicalsymptoms of epididimytis, what had bee proven by NIV-NS. There were 1500 sera samples from sheep and rams examined by the method of complement fixation (MCF). The findings of specific antibodies against B. ovis in dilution 1:5 was considered positive. Specific antibodies against B.ovis were de tected in the sheep that originated from Bečej and Titel municipality, Southern Bačka district. The prevalence was very low and was 0.89%. In Middle Banat district, where only rams were examined, a higher prevalence was diagnosed for B. ovis (4.29%), but in Srem district no animals were seropositive on B. ovis. The examined rams with clinical symptoms of epididimytis were not seropositive on B.ovis.
THE IMPACT OF INCREASED NATURAL BACKGROUND OF SOIL ON THE ANIMAL PRODUCTION OF RUMINANTS IN THE REGION LIVNO
Authors: Gradaščević Nedžad , Saračević Lejla , Samek Davorin , Mihalj Anto
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the impact of increased levels of uranium and radium in soil on the levels of activity and radiation-hygienic validity of animal products of ruminants was investigated.Region around Livno town is placed on coal layer with the in creased levels of uranium and radium compared with other coals used in Bosnia and Herzegovina. As a result of mixing between coal matrix and soil, in creased value of average absorbed dose rate at 1 m above the ground (144 nGy h-1) was measured. The highest average value of 238U and 226Ra in the samples of animal products of ruminants was measured in the samples of sheep cheese (0.070 Bq kg-1 for 238U and 0.207 Bq kg-1 for 226Ra). The levels of these two radionuclides in the rest of animal product of ruminants were aproximatelly similar and ranged 0.016–0.046 Bq kg-1 for 238U and 0.028–0.080 Bq kg-1 for 226Ra. Levels of 40K were in the range of average values for animal products (31.2–86.4 Bq kg-1). Calculated annual effective dose by ingestion of the animal products of ruminants were approximatelly 0.064 mSv with the highest dose contribution of 40K (96.4%). On the base of obtained results, animal products of ruminants produced in observed region, can be considered as valid for human consumption from radiation-hygienic aspect.
THE MOST FREQUENT NUTRIPATHIES IN POULTRY PRODUCTION
Authors: Kapetanov Miloš , Orlić Dušan , Potkonjak Dubravka
Published: June 2020

In modern poultry farming, high productivity approaches close to its biological potentials, so the nutritional and health care requirements are more demanding. In the paper, the most frequent deviations and nutritional requirements are analyzed in detail, such as: structure and distribution of feed, feeding space, expert and technical aberrations in composition of complete diets. Adequate and forehand elimination of factors that had lead to particular nutripathy, directly linked to feed or feeding technology, represent the key of successful poultry production.
ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSIS OF PREGNANCY IN CATTLE
Authors: Erdeljan Mihajlo , Stančić Ivan , Davidov Ivana , Radinović Miodrag
Published: June 2020

One of the major tasks of every practitioner who deals with reproduction is the diagnosis of pregnancy. The aim of this paper is to present the basics of ultrasound diagnosis. The emphasis is given to some elements which are essential for the diagnosis of early pregnancy, whose diagnosis is most important. Also, in the paper are pointed out main indicators that are to be monitored in the diagnosis and possible errors. At the end, the possibilities of using an ultrasound for some new procedures in the reproduction of cows are given.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOMATIC CELL COUNT AND ZINC BLOOD SERUM CONCENTRATION IN DAIRY COWS
Authors: Davidov Ivana , Radinović Miodrag , Erdeljan Mihajlo , Stančić Ivan , Stojanović Dragica , Milanov Dubravka
Published: June 2020

The study was conducted on 15 Holstein-Friesian cows aged between 3 and 5 years kept in the free grazing conditions in summer. The samples of milk were taken twice a year for monitoring subclinical mastitis. In addition to milk samples, the blood samples were taken to determine the concentration of zinc in serum. The occurrence of subclinical mastitis in high yielding cows was estimated based on the values of zinc concentration in blood serum and somatic cells of milk. By analyzing the samples of blood serum, a variation in the concentration of zinc in blood serum was noted depending on the season. Somatic cell count in the spring and autumn period in average was over 400.000/ml milk. Based on statistical analysis, the correlation test, it was concluded that the concentration of zinc in blood serum of cows in the experimental group had no significant effect on the somatic cells count in milk.
DETERMINING WATER GENOTOXICITY AT SOME SITES ON HUNTING GROUNDS IN VOJVODINA
Authors: Košarčić Slavica , Kovačević Mira , Milanov Dubravka , Bugarski Dejan , Prunić Bojana , Plavša Nada
Published: June 2020

Various biotic and abiotic factors are present in ecosystem and they influence the processes of living organisms. Some agents that come into natural waterways are genotoxic. They affect genome and during mitosis and meiosis, and cause numerical and structural changes in karyotype. A research on the degree of genotoxicity on water was carried out on some hunting grounds in Vojvodina. Three sites were selected in Srem, Banat and Backa and water was sampled at different levels of the above mentioned habitats. A cumulative sample was made for each site. Cytological and cytogenetic changes in mitosis were analyzed on the lymphocyte mammalian samples applying Allium cepa genotoxic test. The obtained results point out that the toxicity of water is of different degree and depends on the level of environmental pollution. The hunting ground in Srem is located in the forest where water resources are not polluted, what affected the results showing favorable cytogenetic findings. Genotoxicity of water was detected in Backa where the channel, available to the game, is surrounded by contaminated ground. The changes in cell division were detected, as well as numerical and structural changes in the genome. Banat hunting ground is located in the fields. No contamination was observed. Changes in cytological level that were detected by cytogenetic analysis were statistically not significant. Further and expanded research is needed, as the applied scope of this work proved to be insufficient. However, it indicates the presence of water genotoxicity on hunting grounds in Vojvodina.
MODEL FOR COOPERATION BETWEEN BOAR STUDS AND LABORATORIES FOR REPRODUCTION IN BOARS’ SEMEN QUALITY CONTROL
Authors: Milovanović Aleksandar , Barna Tomislav , Milanov Dubravka , Lazarević Miodrag
Published: June 2020

In this article we presented procedures and results of boar semen quality control performed at the Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad” based on continuous cooperation with the farms’ centers for boar semen production. Th e data obtained by computer analysis (CASA-computer assisted sperm analysis), flow cytometry and cyto-morphologic examination were used for semen quality evaluation. Th e selected parameters were compared with the reproductive results in sows, such as: farrowing rate, number of piglets per litter, ratio of piglets born alive and stillborn piglets). Semen quality evaluation based on spermatozoa progressive motility, sperm concentration, morphological characteristics and chromatine structure damage were used to give recommendations for semen processing, dilution degree, prospective therapy of boars, or, at least, their culing. Analysis of semen was complemented with seasonal bacterial cultivation and controls in cases of sudden drop on semen quality. Separate fi les containing semen quality graphs and reproductive indicators for easier monitoring were created for every boar. Systematic semen analyses performed by the use of several modern methods, along with periodic bacteriological control, offer possibilities for reliable assessment of boars’ semen quality.
A METHOD FOR DETECTING AND TYPING OF SALMONELLA BY MULTIPLEX PCR
Authors: Stegniy Borys , Gerilovych Anton , Arefyev Vasiliy , Glebova Katarina , Potkonjak Aleksandar
Published: June 2020

Today in Ukraine’s market is increasing the volume of trade with livestock products. Also the number of catering services and grocery shops selling ready-made food is growing throughout the country. The veterinary service should have time to check the quality of all of these products. Only traditional bacteriological methods of isolation and identifi cation of pathogens of toxicoinfection, which is not enough in terms of increasing turnover of products, are used today. Th e one of the most dangerous toxicoinfections is salmonellosis. Typing diff erent Salmonella species gives an answer about the source of infection. Th e aim of our work was to develop a system of identifi cation of Salmonella and typing among them five serovars based on the polymerase chain reaction (multiplex PCR). We performed analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the fi ve members of the genus Salmonella, on the basis of which a primer designed for the identifi cation of any member of the genus Salmonella with simultaneous typing - Salmonella enteriса ser. Enteritidis, Salmonella enteriса ser. Typhimurium, Salmonella enterica ser. Тyphi, Salmonella enterica ser. Dublin, Salmonella enterica ser. Gallinarum- Pullorum by multiplex PCR. Th e protocol of multiplex PCR was optimization with simples positive DNA matrix.
METHOD VALIDATION FOR DETERMINATION OF ORGANOCHLORINE PESTICIDE RESIDUES IN FOOD AND FEED
Authors: Kartalović Brankica , Mihaljev Željko , Prica Nadežda , Jakšić Sandra , Živkov Baloš Milica , Ćirković Miroslav
Published: June 2020

Validation of analytical methods ensures the reliability and accuracy of analytical results. To get a reliable result we performed a validation ofthe method taking into account all factors that may aff ect of the result. In this paper we optimized QuEChERS method for food and feed sample preparation as well as instrumental method using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and we obtained a method for successful determination of pesticides with calibration through the matrix. In this way, applying calibration through matrix, we satisfi ed the requirements for precision and reproducibility of the method being less than 20%, the accuracy rate in the range of 70-130% and method linearity throughout the range of interest.
FORENSIC EXAMINATION OF A BOAR DIED DURING TRANSPORT AIMED AT REIMBURSEMENT OF INSURED ANIMAL
Authors: Stojanac Nenad , Stevančević Ognjen , Prodanov Radulović Jasna , Došen Radoslav , Cincović Marko R. , Potkonjak Aleksandar , Vračar Vuk
Published: June 2020

The long lasting transport of high-value animals during the import represents the signifi cant stress factor for animals, which can lead to severehealth problems and even animal death. Thus, insurance of animals against the event of death is highly recommended. In case of the damage ofthe insured animal (death) it is necessary to implement all statutory and contractual measures for determining the reasons of the damage in orderto eff ectively compensate the loss in the country, in which the animal is insured. In this article, we described the case control study, a death of breeding animal (boar) during the transport (import) from Denmark to Serbia. The animal was insured in exporting country and the forensic expertise was necessary to the purpose of adequate insurance compensation. On the basis of applied methods, which included medical history, records of clinical fi ndings, gross pathological fi ndings and laboratory examination, the cause of death of imported boar was identifi ed (heart failure and suff ocation). The Danish insurance company accepted the results of the examination and compensation has been successfully implemented on behalf of the dead boar.
EPIZOOTIOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF SALMONELLA SPP. ISOLATED IN VARIOUS ASPECTS OF POULTRY PRODUCTION IN THE SOUTHERN BAČKA AND SREM REGION
Authors: Pajić Marko , Todorović Dalibor , Velhner Maja , Milanov Dubravka , Polaček Vladimir , Đurić Spomenka , Stojanov Igor
Published: June 2020

Salmonella causes local and systemic infections of poultry, which may lead to substantial direct and indirect economic losses, presenting also significant risk to human health. Th e aim of this study was to monitor the occurrence of certain serotypes of Salmonella spp. isolated on poultry farmsin Southern Bačka and Srem regions in the period from 2010 to 2014, as recommended by the Book of rules of early detection, diagnostic, prevention of spreading and eradication of Salmonella spp. We analyzed the results obtained from the laboratory for clinical bacteriology to determine number of salmonella cases. From all samples that have been submitted for bacteriology analysis, salmonellas were isolated from 7.3% samples. Salmonella infantis was isolated from 50.3% of all salmonella-positive samples, mostly from materials supplied from broiler farms. Salmonella enteritidis was most frequently isolated in broiler chickens at the rate of 48.2%. Th ere is an increasing trend in the occurrence of Salmonella enteritidis and Salmonella infantis on poultry farms from year to year. Our research revealed the highest incidence of salmonella isolates in broilers that died during transportation or within the fi rst three days upon arrival of chickens. During the five-year research period, 65 samples from parent fl ocks (63 from broiler breeders and 2 from parent fl ocks of layers) were salmonella positive, which makes 8.03% of all positive isolates. It is most likely that salmonella infection occurs due to infection of parent flocks and young chickens are infected trough both vertical and horizontal transmission.
PROPOSAL OF A PROGRAM FOR CONTROL, SUPPRESSION AND ERADICATION OF BOVINE VIRAL DIARRHEA VIRUS INFECTION IN CATTLE HERDS IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA
Authors: Petrović Tamaš , Lazić Sava , Bugarski Dejan , Lupulović Diana , Polaček Vladimir , Vidanović Dejan , Plavšić Budimir
Published: June 2020

Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) is a viral infection of cattle caused by Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus (BVDV). Th e most important source of infectionis persistently infected and sick cattle, but also other susceptible species. BVDV infection, except for cattle, occurs in sheep, pigs, goats and wild ruminants. Th ese animals can be reservoirs of the virus, and thus the source of infection. Th e greatest economic losses caused by BVDV infectionin cattle farming are the direct consequences of transplacental infection, as a result of foetal deaths, congenital malformations, neonatal and postnatal mortality, including mucosal diseases and slow growth and poor performance results of the surviving animals, as well as acute infections of respiratory and alimentary infections. Economic losses due to BVDV infection can be seen in a cattle herd even several years aft er the infection. Moreover, BVDV infection is considered as the third most important disease to cattle farming industry, immediately aft er rinderpest and the foot-and-mouth disease. Th e primary task of BVDV infection control is to prevent prenatal infection. This procedure includes the determination and elimination of persistently infected (PI) animals from the herd. Aft er the removal of these animals, great attention must be paid to introducing new animals into the herd and preventing the occurrence of transplacental infection. On the basis of existing data and real suppositions about the distribution of BVDV infection in the territory of Serbia, the great economic damages it causes, as well as the general tendency to resolve problems in European states, and for the competitiveness of our farmers and food industries in the production of milk, meat or breeding material after joining the EU market, it is necessary to draft legal regulations in the control of this bovine viral disease in Serbia. The mentioned control could be based on the voluntary BVDV eradication program on herd’s level in the beginning and on establishing herds with BVDV free status. Certifi cation of BVDV free status of herd will be done by Veterinary Directorate, and the register of herds with BVDV free status could be “on line” available and maintained by the Veterinary Directorate. The essence of this proposal, a volunteer program of establishing herds with BVDV free status, is based on several steps or phases, which includes frequent diagnostic testing, removal of PI animals from the herd and the introduction of strict biosecurity measures.
BLUETONGUE DISEASE - EPIZOOTIOLOGY SITUATION IN SERBIA IN 2015, DIAGNOSIS AND DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS
Authors: Maksimović-Zorić Jelena , Milićević Vesna , Veljović Ljubiša , Pavlović Ivan , Radosavljević Vladimir , Valčić Miroslav , Glišić Mileva
Published: June 2020

Bluetongue disease is non-contagious, vector borne, viral disease mainly of sheep but also of other domestic and wild ruminants. Bluetongue virus (BTV) belongs to the family Reoviridae, genus Orbivirus and is characterized by segmented double-stranded RNA. Virus is transmitted from one to another susceptible animal by hematophagous insects of the genus Culicoides. According to offi cial data, between 2002 and 2014, Serbia has belonged to BTV free countries. Aft er that, the fi rst outbreak occurred in August 2014. Th e last case was reported in December of the same year. During 2015, 74 samples were examined for exclusion of bluetongue disease: 8 in cattle, 65 in sheep and one in goat. In order to detect viral genome, 73 blood samples and one tissue sample were examined by reverse transcription - polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). None of tested samples was confi rmed to be BTV positive. Following the Instruction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection - Veterinary Directorate, monitoring program for Bluetongue disease in Serbia started from October 2015. The program consists of insect identifi cation and detection of viral genome in Culicoides spp. by RT-PCR assay. Of the 80 samples that were received during the program realization in 2015, only four, which were collected during late autumn, have contained insects of Culicoides spp. In none of them, BTV was detected. For diff erential diagnosis, 65 ovine blood samples were examined for the presence of viruses of contagious ecthyma, sheep and goat pox as well as eight bovine blood samples were tested for viruses of bovine viral diarrhea, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis / pustular vulvovaginitis and malignant catarrhal fever. Th e samples were analyzed using molecular methods (PCR and RT-PCR). Only two bovine blood samples gave positive reaction for the presence of bovine viral diarrhea virus.
ELECTROLYTES – SODIUM, POTASSIUM AND CHLORIDES IN POULTRY NUTRITION
Authors: Živkov Baloš Milica , Jakšić Sandra , Knežević Slobodan , Kapetanov Miloš
Published: June 2020

Sodium, potassium and chlorides play a crucial role in maintaining body acid-base balance as well as osmotic pressure in body fluids. These processes are the result of synergetic action of all three elements, and the role of each individual component is diffi cult to defi ne without knowing and taking into consideration the other two elements. The maintenance of this value is determined by three major factors – balance and ratio ofelectrolytes in feed, endogenous acid production and level of renal activity. Electrolyte imbalance is quite rare, since body’s buff ering system provides maintenance of normal physiological pH value. Th is article will give an overview of the role, importance and needs of poultry for sodium, potassium and chlorides, as well as occurrences related to defi cit and the imbalance of those elements in feed.
GENETIC MECHANISMS OF METHICILLIN RESISTANCE IN STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS (MRSA) AND ITS CAPACITY OF TRANSMISSION: A BRIEF REVIEW
Authors: Velhner Maja , Kozoderović Gordana , Suvajdžić Ljiljana , Todorović Dalibor , Petrović Jelena
Published: June 2020

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most important human pathogens. Th ese bacteria have the ability to colonize animals andcross species barriers. Th ree major groups of MRSA strains have emerged. Healthcare associated MRSA and community acquired MRSA strains have potential to spread worldwide and oft en persist in hospitals and communities as clonal strains. Th e livestock-associated MRSA has been isolated from healthy human carriers but also from infected patients all around the world. Molecular typing of staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec), multilocus sequence typing in combination with pulse fi eld gel electrophoresis and spa typing are most frequently used for genetic characterization of MRSA strains. Th e community-acquired MRSA strains are capable of producing Panton Valentine leukocidin (PVL) cytotoxin which is their major virulence determinant. MRSA strains possess a number of virulence factors that are common in other bacteria and it is still not entirely explained which virulence factors or mechanisms of their regulation are important for the pathogenic potential, persistence in the environment or the ability to cause detrimental infection in patients. Recently, as a contribution to the progress of molecular biology, peculiar mechanisms of genetic regulation of virulence genes have been discovered and their role in pathogenesis of infection and epidemiology of MRSA has been studied.
PATOLOŠKE PROMENE KOD LABUDOVA INFICIRANIH VISOKO PATOGENIM SOJEM VIRUSA AVIJARNE INFLUENCE (H5N8)
Authors: Božić Biljana , Pajić Marko , Pelić Miloš , Samojlović Milena , Polaček Vladimir
Published: June 2020

Od 2014 godine nekoliko epizootija izazvanih visoko patogenim virusom avijarne infl uence podtipa H5N8, izbilo je u Aziji, Evropi i severnoj Americi. Ovaj tip virusa infl uence uzrokovao je infekcije domaće živine i divljih ptica. Globalnom širenju virusa doprinele su intrakontinentalne i interkontinentalne migracije ptica. Prvi slučaj visoko patogene avijarne influence podtipa H5N8 u Srbiji detektovan je kod labudova (Cygnus olor),lociranih na rukavcu Dunava (područje Koviljskog-Petrovaradinskog rita) u novembru 2016.godine. Tokom ove epizootije, veći broj bolesnih i uginulih labudova pronađen je oko staništa migratornih ptica. Pokazalo se da su labudovi tokom epizootije bili visoko osetljiva i najviše pogođena vrsta ptica virusom infl uence podtipa H5N8. Oboleli labudovi su ispoljavali neurološke simptome, uključujući tortikolis, inkoordinaciju i ataksiju. Uovom radu su predstavljeni rezultati postmortalnog pregleda labudova inficiranih virusom infl uence. Ispitivanje je rađeno na leševima deset uginulih labudova. Najdominantnije patološke promene izazvane virusom influence podtipa H5N8 bile su nekroze pankreasa, petehijalna krvarenja u subepikardijumu i masnom tkivu mezenterijuma. Kod većine uginulih labudova bila je prisutna kongestija pluća.
Determination of Hardness and Tensile Properties of Dissimilar Phase Structured Steel Weld
Authors: Momoh I M , Adeyemi O A , Oluwafemi O M , Ogundare O D , Salawu S I
Published: June 2020

This work involves the use of submerged arc welding (SAW) technique in joining heat treated steel in alternate arrangement. The selected as-received steel was initially cut, machined and heat treated to develop a conventional microstructure prior to joining operation. All samples were subsequently characterized to investigate the effect of the process on the mechanical behaviors. 3360 Instron Universal Tensile testing machine was used for the tensile properties evaluation; Vickers’ microhardness testing machine was also used for the hardness evaluation at various zones. From the result, it was found that interchanging arrangement of the microstructures during welding yield better combined properties of the ultimate tensile strength, yield strength and with improvement in the strain-to-fracture of some of the samples. The adopted mechanism was also observed to yield better hardness property on the sample. This led to the recommendation of this technique to the oil and gas industry that need to transport their products via the giant water bodies to clients.
Energy Audit of Asejire Community for a Small Hydropower Scheme
Authors: Savage Olumide C , Fadairo Adebayo , Obembe Isaac , Akinwale Abraham , Oyelekan Adebamiji
Published: June 2020

Energy is an important infrastructure for national development. In Nigeria the erratic power supply experienced, and especially in rural areas is an important concern. Energy audit is the assessment of the energy need and efficiency of a building. Hence, energy audit of Asejire community was conducted for developing a small hydropower scheme (SHP) for power generation. The household appliances used were determined, the appliances consuming the most energy in a rural setting were identified, buildings with high energy consumption were identified; and their energy need was evaluated. 1817 kW h was the daily energy consumption of the Asejire community with houses being the most energy consuming buildings by the community, while Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) an industry in Asejire town had an average daily energy consumption of 29700 kW h. This gave a daily total energy consumption of 31517 kW h with a rated power of 1.389 MW. The energy need of the Asejire Community can be solved with the incorporation of a Small Hydropower Scheme (SHP) by utilizing the Asejire dam and thereby matching their energy demand with the energy supply from the Small Hydropower Scheme (SHP).
Efficiency of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb.) Production Technologies in North Central Nigeria
Authors: Oladimeji Yusuf U , Abdulsalam Zakari
Published: June 2020

This study is aimed at determining the efficiency of watermelon production technologies using profit model and Data Envelope Analyses. Primary data through structured questionnaire and interview were administered to 280 farmers. The result of the study shows that Conventional Watermelon Production (CWP) was more profitable ₦252,485.4 per ha compared to Scientific Watermelon Production (SWP) at a profit of ₦237,307.0 per ha. The energy use efficiency ratio of CWP at 1.49 was also higher compared to SWP which was 1.03. However, the output from scientific farms of 3014 pods as well as the scale efficiency of 0.81 was higher compared to the output and scale efficiency for the conventional farms of 2567 and 0.65 respectively. The result also indicates that scientific production system had a higher technical efficiency using Charnes, Cooper and Rhodes (CCR) model 0.73 and Banker, Charnes and Cooper (BCC) model 0.89 compared to conventional watermelon production technique with CCR and BCC of 0.59 and 0.73 respectively. The study also revealed that the scientific watermelon production system was more technically efficient and the output was higher than the conventional farming. Despite this, there is need to critically find a way of increasing energy parameters and technical efficiency in both production systems to move closer to energy optimum and efficiency frontier. This could be achieved by the integration of the two production systems to achieve low cost and efficient scientific inputs usage. On the other hand, watermelon farmers could also shift to semi-mechanized farming for higher output and to be more technically efficient.
Design and Implementation of a Compact Home Security System
Authors: Guiawa Mathurine , Ofusori Temidayo J , Olusuyi Kehinde O , Ezea Hilary U , Babarinde Adedayo K
Published: June 2020

This paper presents the design and implementation of a compact home security system. The use of security systems in today’s home where safety is an important issue cannot be over emphasized. The high crime rates and domestic hazards has brought up the need to take proper measures to prevent intrusions and hazards. It is in this regard that the design and implementation of a compact home security system based on the Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) comes in. Previous designs have used finger print protection, password protection, speech recognition, sensors with buzzer alarms, SMS and e-mail alerts but the designs were with so much complexities as well as at a cost disadvantage. The system presented here is of a minimal cost and simple design, it consists of one motion sensor, one temperature sensor, and one gas sensor.  The system was designed using the ATMEGA 8 microcontroller which controls the sending of SMS to the authorized number. The motion sensor (infrared) detects the movement of people entering the house and when there is a detection of an intruder the owner is notified through an SMS. The temperature sensor in this system also initiates an SMS to the owner when the temperature exceeds a particular value. The gas sensor also works in similar manner when it detects smoke and gas thereby sending SMS alert to the owner of the house. The respective sensors detected the compromise in each situation and sent the corresponding SMS to the user. This device therefore helps to prevent intruders, accidents arising from harmful gases and fire outbreaks in  homes, offices and industries.
Design and Implementation of a Cost Effective Real Time Vehicle Tracking System Using Telit GM862
Authors: Ofusori Temidayo J , Obikoya Gbenga D , Udoh Christian O , Nuga Olubusola O , Babarinde Adedayo K
Published: June 2020

This paper gives the description of the design and implementation of a Real Time Cost Effective Vehicle Tracking System making use of Telit GM862 Module. The Module was installed in a vehicle as the Vehicle Unit while a mobile hand set was used as the Remote Tracking Device. The Module was configured using hyper-terminal on a computer system where the necessary properties and parameters were set. SMSATRUN service was also activated on the module. The SMS information to query the location was sent from the Remote Tracking Device using GSM/GPRS modem on any chosen GSM network to the Vehicle Unit (Module). The Vehicle Unit responds with an SMS message of the location information to the Tracking Device with an authorized mobile number on the GSM Network. The coordinates of the location received are then displayed on Google Map.
Flexural Response of Reinforced Concrete Waffle Slab with Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) in the Topping
Authors: Akinyele Joseph O , Odunfa Simeon O , Abiola Ronke J
Published: June 2020

The current trend of indiscriminate dumping of plastic wastes has lead researchers to look into the reuse of these materials especially in the building industry. In this work, waste plastic bottles polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were recycled to 4 mm diameter polymer rod and were used to replace wire mesh in the topping of waffle slab. The flexural strength and deformation of 12 waffle slabs with sizes of 700 mm × 700 mm × 120 mm, and 800 mm × 800 mm × 120 mm were determined with three samples for each size. The topping of six slabs were reinforced with the polymer rod while the remaining six were reinforced with wire mesh which served as the control. The laboratory test carried out showed that the young modulus of elasticity for polymer rod and wire mesh was 12,766 N/mm2 and 30,469 N/mm2 respectively. The average crack width for the waffle slabs reinforced with polymer rods and wire mesh range from 1 mm to 2.3 mm having maximum deflection of 42.93 mm and 40.64 mm respectively. The average ultimate flexural load was 50KN for both samples. The study concluded that the polymer rod could be used as topping in waffle slab.
Geotechnical Site Investigation for Proposed Minna City Centre Development in Niger State
Authors: Sadeeq Ja'afar A , Salahudeen Anigilaje B
Published: June 2020

This study was carried out to investigate and determine the geotechnical parameters required for adequate design and positioning of structures and facilities of the proposed Minna City Centre, at Minna the capital of Niger state. The soil samples used for the study were obtained from 10 SPT boreholes at 0.6, 2.1 and 3.6 m depths and all laboratory tests were conducted in accordance with BS 1377. Results show that soil particle sizes increases with boring depth up to the basement complex and values of cohesion and angle of internal friction show that the shearing resistance and bearing capacity of soils will be relatively high and favourable for the intended structures. Average allowable bearing capacity values in the range of 100 – 300 kN/m2 are recommended for use in the study area with embedment depth between 1 – 3 m.
Empirical Validation of Regression Models for forecasting Global Solar Irradiance: A Case Study of Abeokuta, Nigeria
Authors: Osifeko Martins O , Sanusi Olufunmilayo I , Abolade Olatilewa R , Iweriebor Sonia , Obikoya Gbenga D
Published: June 2020

The performance of solar radiation distribution models is highly dependent on the location of use. This makes the need for location dependent validation necessary. An empirical validation of three solar radiation distribution models was carried out in this work using empirical data obtained from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET). The models include the Angstrom-Prescott, Hargreaves and Garcia model. Four standard statistical tools of correlation ratio (R), mean bias error (MBE), mean percentage error (MPE), root mean square error (RMSE) were used for the validation. Results from the work reveal that the Angstrom-Prescott model had the least MBE with an average value of 0.1 making it the most reliable among the three models. In terms of MPE values, the Angstrom-Prescott model also performed best with an average MPE value of 0.1 while the Hargreaves and Garcia model had an average MPE performance of 0.2 and 0.15 respectively. In terms of the RMSE and correlation ratio, the Angstrom-Prescott model also performed better than the other two models with an average RMSE and correlation ratio of 0.3 and 0.65. This work thus reveals that, for a medium term solar radiation forecasting goal, the best regression based model that accurately predict the solar radiation distribution in Abeokuta is the Angstrom-Prescott model.
Cost Sustainability Analysis of an Enhanced Distribution Network
Authors: Babayomi Oluleke , Adetona Sunday , Osheku Charles , Opasina Ayodele
Published: June 2020

This study presents the cost sustainability analysis of an enhanced distribution network (DN). In the study, the enhancement of the DN was achieved through network reconfiguration (NR) and the introduction of distributed generation units (DGs) at some locations. When the DN was only reconfigured, the power losses in the network reduced by 23.39 % at 1.0 p.u loading; whereas, the minimum voltage profile in the network improved by 1.79 %. When both reconfiguration and DG were engaged in losses minimization, power losses reduced by 61.94 % at full load, whereas the minimum voltages in the network improved by 7.66 %. When the DN was reconfigured and DGs were embedded at three different locations, the energy losses in the entire network reduced by 61.94 % and 58.37 % at 0.5 and 1.0 loadings respectively; whereas, the minimum voltages in the network improved by 1.21 % and 8.46 % at 0.5 p.u and 1.0 p.u loadings respectively. The information obtained from the load flow analysis was used for the economic analysis of the DN when both reconfigured and three DGs were embedded at different locations of the network. The annual financial energy gains evaluated from the annual energy savings was about $125,000.00, when the DN operated at 100 % loading capacity all year round. The financial savings are sufficient to cover annual operational cost of solar PV DGs; as well as, recovering its capital investment with a payback period of 5 years.
Competing Risk Modelling using Cumulative Incidence Function: Application to Recurrent Bladder Cancer Data
Authors: Dauda Kazeem A , Yahya Waheed B , Banjoko Alabi W , Olorede Kabi O
Published: June 2020

In this study, the effects of some clinical variables on the survival times of patients with bladder cancer were examined. The effects of these variables on sub-distribution of the failure types were determined using the proportional sub-distribution hazards regression model described in Fine and Gray (1999). Published dataset on 294 bladder cancer patients with four clinical outcomes were analyzed using Cumulative Incidence Function approach. The four outcomes included 184 (64%) patients that experienced recurrence of bladder cancer after receiving chemotherapy treatments. Two patients died of bladder cancer while 27 patients died of other causes and the remaining 76 patients did not experienced any of these three outcomes, and as a result, were considered censored. Among the covariates considered, only the patients’ initial number of tumors and initial size of tumor were incorporated into our analysis due to high proportion of missing observations in others. Results from this work showed that, patients with tumour recurrence have highest risk of dying than those from other causes. Further results showed that, the number of tumor was positively associated with the recurrence of cancer of the bladder. However, the size of the tumor did not demonstrate a significant effect on the patients’ survival time. It can therefore, be concluded that patients with tumor recurrence have low probability of survival from bladder cancer than patients that experienced other events. Above all, number, but not size of tumor could adversely affect the survival time of bladder cancer patients, especially those with tumor recurrence after bladder cancer treatment.
Risks Comparison between Nuclear Generated Electricity and Other Electricity Generation Sources in Nigeria
Authors: Salawu Abdulhameed , Oche Celestine O
Published: June 2020

Nigeria with over 0.181 Billion people currently suffers from acute power shortage which has seriously affected the country’s economy for several years with no viable solution thus far. Salvaging this situation brings up the need for a search for more efficient means of generating ‘24/7’ electricity in Nigeria. Several attempts by Government to introduce nuclear generated electricity were faced with a lot of criticism from the Nigerian populace. This paper focuses on the perceptions of Nigerians vis-a-vis electricity production using nuclear energy. It raised valid questions and sampled opinions of Nigerians.  The survey carried out in this work shows that a lot of Nigerians do not understand that we have accepted more risky physical facilities or riskier option of electrical energy generation as compared to nuclear energy. Hence it made comparison between the casualty rates from other energy generation sources, accident from various means of transportation and from nuclear power plant. The analysis of data used in this work (as provided in table 6.0), shows that it would take road traffic accidents just about four days to claim as much lives as nuclear reactors in 50 years and that in about three years, aviation industry in Nigeria claim more lives than accidents from nuclear reactors in 50 years. We also observed that electricity production from nuclear energy has the lowest record of accidents and fatalities rate as compared to other major energy generation sources.
Casting and Performance Evaluation of Pump Impeller and Housing using Local Raw Materials
Authors: Olorunfemi Bayode J , Adejuyigbe Samuel B , Adekunle Adefemi A
Published: June 2020

Casting of pump impeller and its housing was carried out using locally available materials. Performance evaluation was conducted to show if the locally produced pump impeller and its housing could be compared favourably in terms of performances with the imported ones. The sand used for the moulding of the pump housing and impeller was blended in the sand mixer with bentonite, wood dust, water and others as desired in their correct proportions (Bentonite-3.5%, Water 3.5%; Wood dust 4.2%). Pouring of the molten metal unto the assembled mould was done at a temperature of about 1380oC.  Portable optical pyrometer was used to measure the temperatures.  The charge make ups was 135kg of cast iron scraps, 0.58% FeSi, 0.035% Femn and 0.0045% Inoculants.   Replica of the two components were carefully produced in wooden patterns to make the sand mould easy, while the casting was made using grey cast iron because of the need to machine it to its final dimensions with ease. The results obtained from the various test carried out shows no significant difference from the standard result of the imported ones.
Effect of Magnetically Treated Water on Precipitation of some Macro Elements in the Soil for Tomato Growth
Authors: Yusuf Kamorudeen O , Ogunlela Ayodele O
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted to determine effect of magnetically treated water (MTW) on the precipitation of some macro elements in the soil for tomato growth. Magnetic flux densities used for treating the water were 124, 319 and 719 gauss (G) produced from electromagnet with direct current. A 1.0 litre of MTW was added to sandy loam in a bucket at 3 days interval for 45 days. Each treatment was replicated 3 times and a control experiment in which the soil was treated with 1.0 litre of non–magnetically treated water (NMTW) and replicated 3 times. The mean concentrations of calcium, potassium, sodium, nitrogen, phosphorus, organic matter and organic carbon for MTW treated using 719 G were 3.16 cmol/kg, 2.67 cmol/kg, 1.58 cmol/kg, 0.97 %, 2.39 mg/kg, 2.41 % and 1.39 %, respectively while the corresponding values for NMTW were 2.82 cmol/kg, 2.35 cmol/kg, 1.42 cmol/kg, 0.87 %, 2.26 mg/kg, 2.30 % and 1.32 %. MTW treated by 124 G also gave higher values of concentrations macro elements than the values from soil treated with NMTW. The influence of MTW by 124, 319, 719 G  and NMTW on mean heights of tomato plant (growth) at 26 days after planting were 154.3, 178.6190.3 and 137.1 mm while at 47 days the heights were 560.0, 556.4, 588.6 and 469.3 mm, respectively. Mean diameter of the tomato stem at 30 mm above soil level for 124, 319, 719 G and NMTW at 49 days after planting  were 8.64, 7.99, 8.21 and 6.96 mm, respectively.          Keywords:  Magnetically treated water, macro elements, paired t-test, soil
Evaluation of Chemical and Physico-Mechanical Properties of some Nigeria Natural Clays Samples for Foundry Applications
Authors: Shuaib-Babata Yusuf L , Abdulrahaman Abdulhafeez N
Published: June 2020

Studies have shown that Nigerian clays have not been fully utilized for foundry applications, either as refractories or even bonding clays, and are still being imported into the country. There is need to effectively exploit and adequately utilize the available natural resources to improve Nigeria economic activities, most especially during the present economic recession. Samples of clays were obtained from Auchi, Dada-Okelele (Ilorin), Kaba, Maraba-Rido, Mokwa and New-Bussa in Nigeria. The samples’ physico-mechanical properties were examined for its suitability for foundry/refractory applications. The results of the chemical analysis revealed that the samples belong to Alumino-Silicate refractories. The samples exhibited 35.3-96.2%, 17.1-28.7%, 1.72-2.34 g/cm3, 2.2-10.1%, 73-86 and >1300oC as values for percentage clay contents, apparent porosity, bulk density, permeability, linear shrinkage and refractoriness respectively. These values were within the standard range values of >35%, 22-30%, 17-2.4%, 2.0-10.1% and 25-90 required as percentage clay contents, apparent porosity, bulk density, permeability and linear shrinkage values respectively, for refractory clays/brick lining or alumina-silicates, kaolin and fireclays. Hence, the clays could suitably replace imported clays / ceramics in refractory applications, such as in production of earthen wares, chalk; as insulating refractories for casting and melting of low and medium temperature iron and steel. Appropriate utilization of these clays for local foundry applications will assist in addressing the problem of inadequate job, and over dependence on foreign goods.Keywords— Alumino-Silicate, Clay, Foundry, Moisture and Refractoriness
A SONAR-Based Water Level Monitoring System: An Experimental Design
Authors: Amusa Kamoli A. , Opeodu Francis A. , Adewusi Adeoluwawale , Adewunmi Timothy O.
Published: June 2020

Storage of water is common to all human for domestic and industrial utilization. Today, water tanks are the conventional and a major component in water storage systems as they have the capacity to hold large volume of water over a long period of time. They come in different shapes and sizes. However inadequate monitoring of water level in this storage facility may lead to either shortage of water supply when needed or its wastage during lifting process. Hence, there is need for proper monitoring of water level in a storage facility. This need motivates this work, which is the development of water level monitoring system that based on sonar technology. Materials employed in the development include ultrasonic sensor module, ATmega-328P microcontroller, 16MHz crystal oscillator, 12V dc water pump among others. The developed system monitors the water level and activates the pump as appropriate based on the input the ultrasonic sensor gives to the microcontroller which occupies the centre of the system. The developed system has potential of mitigating the attendant problems that usually arise from wastage or shortage of water supply with respect to water storage facility. Keywords—SONAR, water storage, monitoring system