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Listing 65 - 20 of 2805 results.

First Report of Legionella Pneumophila Serogroup 1 Isolate from Public-Supply Water in Bangladesh

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology

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Abstract
Legionella pneumophila infection is generally recognized to be transmitted from aquatic sources to human. In Bangladesh, although suspected cases of legionellosis were reported, epidemiology of Legionella infection as well as water resource contamination by Legionella spp. was almost unknown. In the current study, we screened water samples from Dhaka, Bangladesh, for Legionella spp. One L. pneumophila isolate was recovered from tap water of a residential hotel. This isolate was identified as serogroup 1 by serum agglutination reaction, and sequence type 1 (ST1) by sequence based typing. Analysis of lipopolysaccharide synthesis cluster genes by PCR revealed lag-1 gene was not detected in this isolate, and its predicted monoclonal antibody subgroup was OLDA/Oxford. This is the first report of isolation and characterization of L. pneumophila from aquatic environment in Bangladesh.
Contribution/ Originality
This study documents, as first, the existence of Legionella spp. in water in Bangladesh that contributes to understanding possible sources of contamination of aquatic environment by rapid urbanization in this territory. The objective of the study is to guide to develop an effective infection control policy in this country.
Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 06-2016 Issue: 2

Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection among People Attending A Voluntary Screening Centre in Masaka, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology

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Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an emerging public health problem in Nigeria. This study therefore determined the seroprevalence of this virus among people of a rural settlement in Nigeria during which 600 people were screened for HCV infection. Five ml of blood was collected from each participant, the serum harvested and screened for anti- HCV using a Chromatographic rapid test kit (ACON Inc. USA) according to the manufacturer’s instructions .The overall prevalence of HCV infection in this population was 24.2% being higher among males (23.7%) than females (23.7%) (p? 0.05). Only Educational level had a significant association with infection (p < 0.05). When stratified by age infection was highest among those aged 21 -30 years (27.4%) and least among those aged 51 years and above (3.6%) (p? 0.05). Occupation and marital status also had no statistically significant relationship with viral infection. The 24.2% infection rate reported  in this population is a cause for alarm because it means there is a high viral reservoir in the area. There is also a high number of persons likely to have end- stage liver diseases among these participants. The absence of identifiable risk factors is a major challenge to prevention and control and demonstrates the need for reevaluation of transmission routes in the locality. Screening should be available and affordable.
Contribution/ Originality
This study has contributed in documenting the prevalence of the infectin in Masaka, Nigeria using chromatographic rapid test kit and has used the Chi square statistical test. The study is one of the very few studies which have investigated the prevalence of HCV infection in North Central, Nigeria. This paper has contributed in logical analysis and in estimating the prevalence and risk factors of the infection in Masaka. The study documented a relatively high overall prevalence of the infection. It is associated with educational level and not associated with age, gender, occupation and marital status.
Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 09-2016 Issue: 3

Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Viruses among Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infected Children Attending an Antiretroviral Therapy Clinic in Lafia, Nigeria

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology

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Abstract
Nigeria has the largest burden of children living with HIV in the world but because of antiretroviral therapy, they are living longer. However, hepatitis B and C viruses are emerging important co-morbidities to consider especially for management decisions. This study set out to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses among these children and to identify possible risk factors associated with the infections. Two hundred HIV-infected children at an antiretroviral treatment center were screened for Hepatitis B and C seromarkers using rapid test kits (ABCON Laboratories Hangzhou China). Informed written consent was obtained from their parents/guardian and information on their sociodemographics and exposure to some possible risk factors were obtained. A general prevalence of infection with hepatitis B and C virus in the study population was 14.0%. The prevalence of HBV was 3.0% while HCV was 11.0% and no child was coinfected with all 3 viruses. The HIV/HBV and HIV/HCV coinfection prevalence of 3.0% and 11.0% respectively is a cause for alarm. It is therefore pertinent that HIV infected children are screened for these viruses before commencement and during antiretroviral therapy.
Contribution/ Originality
This study has contributed in documenting the prevalence of the coinfections in Lafia, Nigeria using rapid test kits and has used the Chi square statistical test. This study is one of the very few studies which have investigated the prevalence of Hepatitis B and C infections in North Central, Nigeria. The paper has contributed in logical analysis and in estimating the prevalence and risk factors of the infections in Lafia. The study documented a relatively high overall prevalence of the coinfection. There is a coinfection of the 3 viruses among the study population.
Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 12-2016 Issue: 4

Does the Holiday Effect Differ from Religious to Non-Religious Holidays? Empirical Evidence from Egypt

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The Economics and Finance Letters

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Abstract
This study aims to investigate the presence of holiday effect on the Egyptian Exchange (EGX) over the period 2010 to 2015. It utilizes daily data of the EGX30 index prices and trading volumes and applies dummy variables OLS regression. Three types of holidays are examined those being, secular, Islamic, and Christian, and those, in turn, are disaggregated into their individual components. The findings reveal that there are differences in the behavior of stock prices between holidays. While the secular and Islamic holidays are mainly associated with positive pre-holiday returns, the Christian holidays are associated with positive post-holiday returns. Disaggregating these holidays into their individual components reveals that the Police Day holiday, Eid Al-Fitr holiday and Eastern Christmas holiday are the major holidays driving the secular, Islamic and Christian holidays’ effect respectively. Interestingly, the results obtained when the trading volume is used do not support the presence of a holiday effect on trading volume. The findings could have important implications for developing profitable investment strategies in periods of holidays.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the literature in that it examines the holiday effect using disaggregated data of secular, Islamic, and Christian holidays with the aim of examining whether the holiday effect differs between religious and non-religious holidays and between Islamic and Christian ones.
Economics » The Economics and Finance Letters » Month: 03-2016 Issue: 3

The Relationship between Currency Conversions and International Business Transactions: Small Businesses and Travelers

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The Economics and Finance Letters

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Abstract
This research looks at currency conversions and how it affects international business transactions especially small businesses and travelers. The idea is to show the discrepancy of currency conversion and the factors that do affect currency conversion in any given time for a business person or a traveler.  In order to increase small business and traveler’s awareness when it comes to doing business abroad, it is imperative to understand the currency conversions, its implications, and the commitments needed to protect investments and value of the conversion exchange. Research shows that small businesses have little or no adequate knowledge of currency conversions. The paper research questions are: (1) Do foreign exchange rates uncertainty reduce the incentive of travelers and small business owners from transacting business abroad? (2) Is it necessary for travelers and small business owners to understand the relevance of foreign exchange rates and risks management?
Contribution/ Originality
This study documents a rule of thumb that the main objective of businesses is to maximize profits and minimize costs. It illustrates that the knowledge of currency conversions is very vital to all small business practitioners.
Economics » The Economics and Finance Letters » Month: 04-2016 Issue: 4

Comparing Patatin Class I and Camv 35s Promoters in Expression of Human Calcitonin Gene in Potato (Solanum Tuberosum Cvs. Kardal And Marfona)

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The International Journal of Biotechnology

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Abstract
Calcitonin (CT), a 32 amino acid polypeptide hormone is a powerful and specific inhibitor of bone resorption and is used to treat several human diseases like hypercalcemia and osteoporosis. To date, many pharmaceutical proteins of mammalian origin have been synthesized in plants. To increase the production level of heterologous proteins in plants, strategies such as choice of stronger promoters and optimization of codon usage are of major concern. In this study, a human calcitonin (hCT) gene, driven by two different promoters (Patatin Class I and Cauliflower mosaic virus 35S) was expressed in two types of potato's cultivars (cvs) Kardal and Marfona plants, using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The transgenic plants were analyzed by molecular methods and hCT concentration was determined by quantitative EASIA. The results showed the localization of hCT production in Kardal potato tubers led to 0.7% of total soluble proteins whiles total soluble protein was 0.2% when CaMV 35S promoter was deployed, these results of Marfona when used Patatin Class I and Cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoters were 0.3% of the total soluble protein and 0.1% of the total soluble protein in the respect. Data were analyzed by SPSS software using analytical statistics. There was significant difference in mean score of hCT production when two different promoters and two different cultivars were used. These results showed that organ specific expression in potato led to nearly 3 fold higher hCT accumulation than constitutive expression and Kardal cultivar expressed hCT about 2 times higher than Marfona cultivar.
Contribution/ Originality
The paper's primary contribution is finding that the expression of foreign gene under the control of organ specific promoter is more than constitutive promoter in transgenic potato. This study is one of very few studies which have investigated on the effect of two different potato plant cultivars for heterologous gene expression level.
Biological Sciences » The International Journal of Biotechnology » Month: 04-2016 Issue: 4

Review of Biological Impacts of Genetically Engineered Crops and Neonicotinoid Treated Seed Use on Staten Island

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The International Journal of Biotechnology

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Abstract
Genetically modified organism (GMO) crops particularly Roundup Ready Crops have been widely used in commercial agriculture in the United States in general and Staten Island in particular. However, its use has promoted concerns about the potential environmental effects of this technology. Therefore, this work was initiated to review impact of GE crops and Neonicotinoid to biodiversity, special focus on bees, birds, and super weeds development at Satan Island. Glyphosate herbicide is now widely used for growing Roundup Ready crop, like maize and soy bean. Scientists reported that using glyphosate herbicide by far better than using the previously used herbicide to the environment and biodiversity. It is also known that super weed may develop through gene flow from Roundup Ready Crops to its wild relatives and develop resistance against roundup. However, this might not be a problem in Staten Island where there is no wild relative species for widely grown Roundup Ready Crops like corn and alfaalfa.With regards to Neonicotinoids, it has lower toxicity to mammals like birds, and fish than other non-target insect species specially bees and other pollinator. The effect of Neonicotinoids to non-target species can be minimized using Fluent Agent in seed coating the which reduces dust contamination. Therefore, the use of Genetically Engineered Crops and Neonicotinoid Treated Seed needs special care and management in order to minimize its damage to non-target insect species.
Contribution/ Originality


Biological Sciences » The International Journal of Biotechnology » Month: 04-2016 Issue: 4

Unprotected Sex among Sexually Active Unmarried Young Adults: A Pariah or Preemptive Incidence

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Journal of Diseases

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Abstract
Globally, HIV endemic has been linked to several but preventable predictors, amongst these, is the practice of unprotected sex. In spite of the burdens of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, there is a dearth of studies with focus outside the conventional approach to predicting the incidence of unprotected sex among sexually active unmarried young adults in Nigeria. This study addresses this limitation. The study adopted a cross-sectional and multistage sampling technique. A total sample size of 384 respondents was systematically and randomly selected among young adults aged 20-29 in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. Unprotected sex was the study’s response variable and was categorised into respondents who had unprotected sex in at least the last three months prior the survey with single sex partner and those who had with multiple sex partners over the same period. The key explanatory variables were a pariah and preemptive factors while the confounding variable was knowledge of HIV/AIDS. Rank-ordered logistic regression was employed using Stata 14. Results showed that pariah and preemptive factors were significantly associated with unprotected sex (p<0.05). The study concluded that the incidence of unprotected sex among unmarried young adults across Ile-Ife communities was predisposed to pariah and preemptive factors.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature by reconnoitering risky sexual behaviour outside the conventional recognized approach; it documents joint influence of pariah and preemptive factors on incidence of unprotected sex; as such document provides insights to inhibiting the spread of HIV and avoidance of unwanted pregnancy outside wedlock.
Medical Sciences » Journal of Diseases » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Effects of Segregated Early Weaning at 7 Days on Dams Body Condition, Parturition Interval and Offspring Birth Weight and Litter Size in the Agouti (Dasyprocta Leporina) for Intensive Production

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Animal Review

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Abstract
There has been limited information reported on the impacts of segregated early weaning on agouti (Dasyprocta leporina) dams. The study lasted 485 days where 4 parturitions were recorded from 12 (2 year old) multiparous dams, hence there were 48 (12 x 4) parturitions in total with 100 offspring being born. Data was collected on 1) the live weight gain of dams (+/- g), 2) re-conception time and parturition interval (through theoretical calculations assuming that the gestation period was 104 days), 3) litter size at each parturition 4) weight of each individual offspring born per litter as a % of dams’ live weight and 5) the ratio of offspring sex at each parturition. Results showed that dams can reconceive and have a successive parturition as early as 119 days after the day of her previous parturition. Average live weight gain after 4 consecutive parturitions for dams were 276g. Average offspring weights increased by approximately 23 g (193 g to 216g) after 4 parturitions when weaned at 7 days. Average litter size per dam increased by 33% (1.75 to 2.33) after 4 parturitions when weaned at 7 days. Litter size as a percentage of dam’s body weight increased by 0.11% (5.47 to 5.58) after 4 parturitions when weaned at 7 days. This study concludes that weaning at 7 days post-partum is very beneficial for dams’ body condition and re conception, offspring growth and development and for continuous reproduction in an intensive production unit.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the impacts of segregated early weaning on agouti (Dasyprocta leporina). Weaning at 7 days post-partum is very beneficial for dams’ body condition and re conception, offspring growth and development and for continuous reproduction in an intensive production unit.
Agricultural Sciences » Animal Review » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Comparing Post-Partum Growth by Body Weight between Sex and Litter Size of Agouti (Dasyprocta Leporina) Offspring from Birth to 360 Days Old

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Current Research in Agricultural Sciences

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Abstract
Thirty (30) offspring were weaned at 7 days old and 12 weights were taken every 30 days from the date of birth until 360 days old. The objectives of this study were: 1) to observe any dimorphism by live weight gain between agouti males and females at each 30 day interval, 2) to see if there was any difference in growth rate between litter sizes, and 3) to observe of there was a point where growth plateaued and to decide on an average age and weight for utilization (meat). Results suggested that: 1) Offspring can be weaned as early as 7 days, 2) Single born offspring grew faster than double or triple born initially in the earlier periods of life (< 6 months old) (18.89 g/d vs.17.61 g/d, 17.57 g/d) 3) Compensatory growth took place for offspring that came from larger litters in the latter stages of life (> 6 months old) (1.25 g/d, 1.21 g/d vs. 0.87 g/d) and had no major disadvantage by weight when compared to single born offspring (2750.8g 2770.0g and 2784.1g,), 4) Male and female offspring grew at the same rate from day 0 to 360, hence no sexual dimorphism by live weight was seen at day 360, 5) The average weight for optimum utilization (harvest) by live weight is no less than 2600g which can be achieved by 8 months of age, 6) The Gompertz growth model best describes the growth of Agouti offspring as compared to the Logistic and Von Bertalanffy models.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the growth and development of agouti offspring along a 360 day period and compared the growth rates of sexes and litter sizes to the Gompertz , Logistic and Von Bertalanffy growth models.
Agricultural Sciences » Current Research in Agricultural Sciences » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Social Studies Teachers' Performance in the Context of the Knowledge Society at Saudi Arabian Schools

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice

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Abstract
This study investigated social studies teachers’ teaching practices in the knowledge society framework at Saudi Arabian schools as viewed by educational supervisors and teachers using the descriptive analytical approach. The study used a questionnaire. The study’s sample consisted of 33 randomly selected educational supervisors and 62 social studies teachers. Only 95 questionnaires were complete and statistically analyzed Results revealed that the means of the social studies teachers’ performance were viewed as being above average. The study recommends training teachers on the modern educational experiences imposed by the knowledge society.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to existing literature by investigating social studies teachers’ teaching practices in the light of knowledge society at Saudi Arabian schools as viewed by educational supervisors and teachers.
Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 04-2019 Issue: 4

Evaluation of Selected Botanical Extracts against Mendi Termite Macrotermes subhyalinus (Isoptera: Termitidae), under Laboratory Condition

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Current Research in Agricultural Sciences

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Abstract
Termites are most pestiferous insects causing damage to crop and buildings. Their control still relies mainly on harmful chemical pesticides to the detriment of eco-friendly pesticides. The main objective of the study was evaluate seed extracts of Brassica nigra and leaves extracts of Acokantra schimperi, Croton macrostachyus and Rhamnus prinoides against Macrotermes subhyalinus, known to cause damage to crops, vegetation and buildings in Ethiopia. Treatments were consisted of three concentrations levels (5, 10 and 15 weight of botanical powder (g) per 100 ml volume of water) by three replications. Mortality of termite was counted after 24, 48 and 72 hours exposure for both conditions. The results of all botanical extracts at all concentration levels showed that caused mortality of M. subhyalinus workers. Complete mortality (100%) of M. subhyalinus was observed after treatment with 15 w/v B. nigra extract at three time intervals. Moreover, A. schimperi at 15 w/v concentration also resulted 100% mortality after 48-72 hours of exposure. Brassica nigra extract showed least LC50 (5.63g/100ml) value than other botanical extracts after 24 hours exposure. Based on their toxicity status extracts of B. nigra > A. schmperi > R. prinoides > C. macrostachyus leaf extracts.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the existing literature by giving important information for farmers, government and Non-governmental developmental sectors to control Mendi Termite Macrotermes subhyalinus by using of these locally available botanical extracts alternatives rather than using synthetic pesticides because, botanical extracts have minimum mammalian toxicity and environmental influences.
Agricultural Sciences » Current Research in Agricultural Sciences » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Development of Health Tourism in Turkey: SWOT Analysis of Antalya Province

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Journal of Tourism Management Research

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Abstract
Health tourism is one of the most important types of alternative tourism that provides sustainable tourism. When examining the coordination among current developments in health tourism in the world, technological innovations, and health tourism providers, it is clear to see that Turkey and Antalya have not yet reached the desired level. This study attempts to evaluate and explain the position of Antalya, which wants to attain a share in health tourism. In this context, a SWOT analysis of Antalya in the development of health tourism was carried out. Antalya is primarily a cheap destination, and this is a very attractive feature for foreign tourists. Health services in Antalya, doctors and other health care personnel, applied treatments, and technological devices are at a very high standard. Tourists who prefer autumn and spring seasons will solve the seasonality problem of Antalya especially during off-peak times. For this purpose, Antalya should additionally be promoted and marketed as a destination for health tourism. In this context, public and private sectors need to cooperate. Within the scope of the responses obtained from the participants, Antalya is required to conduct studies on being easily accessible and reliable for patients. Promotional information in brochures or posters should also be reviewed.
Contribution/ Originality
This study tries to give valuable input to the development of health tourism in Antalya Province of Turkey benefiting from SWOT analysis method. In the written literature there are few researches conducting SWOT analysis of destinations in the development of health tourism. In this context, this study can be evaluated as a starting point at least for Antalya province.
Business & Management » Journal of Tourism Management Research » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Breeding Objective, Breeding Practices and Selection Criteria of Indigenous Sheep in Western Amhara, Ethiopia

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research

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Abstract
The purpose of this research was to generate organized information on breeding objectives, breeding practices and choice criteria of farmers in Farta, Lay Gayint and Sekela districts. A sum of 180 households was selected to survey questionnaires in selected districts, Semi structured questioner and group discussions were used as information sources. The average separation of the Statistical Analysis System was used to analyze the flock size and structure in the three districts. An index was calculated to supply an overall ranking of categorical variables. The average flock per house holding the study districts was 8.8±0.05 heads. For source of income (0.45), home use (0.28), saving (0.20), and manure (0.04) were the reasons of sheep keeping. The uncontrolled mating system was practiced by most (72.6 %) of households. In the study districts 37.7 % of farmers received their own breeding rams while the rest farmers shared with their neighbors. Appearance (0.38), growth rate (0.34), color (0.13), pedigree (0.10) and tail type and size (0.10) were the sheep owner’s standards for breeding ram, while the appearance (0.29), coat color (0.18), lamb growth (0.17), lambing interval (0.12), age at first lambing (0.09) and lamb survival (0.08) where the farmers' selection criteria for breeding ewes. Going through a breed improvement program considering the farmers’ production objectives and existing breeding practices is important. Nevertheless, designing alternative breeding strategies to key out the optimal number of traits to be considered and size of flocks to be mixed is crucial before setting up a breeding plan.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few works which have investigated to evaluate the existing breeding practice and choice criteria of sheep farmers’ in Ethiopia. This inquiry is important to design breeding strategies for improvement breeding practices and choice of traits chosen by farmers in the study districts.
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 12-2019 Issue: 4

Effect of Integrated Application of Poultry Manure and Chemical NP Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of Highland Maize Variety on Vertisol at Ambo University on Station, Ethiopia

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research

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Abstract
A decline in soil nutrient and organic matter content as a consequence of removal of crop residues from crop fields, repeated suboptimal fertilization resulting in periodic nutrient mining, is a major constraint to increasing maize productivity in a sustainable manner in tropical soils. A field experiment was conducted at Ambo University research farm, Ethiopia with the objectives to investigate: the effect of combining different levels of poultry manure (PM) and NP chemical fertilizer rates on growth, yield and yield components of maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment consisted of eight treatments: control, 15 t ha-1 PM alone, 30 t ha-1 PM alone, 15 t ha-1 PM + 25% rec. NP, 15 t ha-1 PM + 50% rec. NP, 30 t ha-1 PM + 25% rec.NP, 30 t ha-1 PM + 50% rec.NP and 100% recommended dose of NP fertilizer rates, which were laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Results showed that plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, leaf area index, number of cobs per plant, cob girth, cob length, number of grains per cob, 1000-grain weight, biomass yield, harvest index and grain yield were significantly higher for the treatment in which 30 t ha-1 PM plus 50% recommended NP fertilizer was applied compared to both the absolute and standard controls. The highest maize grain yield (132.7q ha-1) was recorded for the treatment in which 30 t ha-1 PM along with 50% recommended NP fertilizer was applied. The lowest values of growth, yield and yield components parameters were recorded for the negative control where no PM and chemical NP fertilizer were applied. Results of the correlation analysis revealed the presence of significant positive relationship between grain yields and all growth and yield component parameters. Integrating poultry manure with chemical fertilizers can considerable reduce the quantity of the later required for optimum maize production.
Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the existing literature that reports the positive contribution of co-application of poultry manure and inorganic fertilizer as part of integrated nutrient management in enhancing growth, yields and yield components in crop plants in general and in maize in particular.
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 12-2019 Issue: 4

Supernumerary Teats in Kalahari Red Goats in the Humid Tropics

Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Animal Review

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Abstract
Supernumerary teats (SNT) are additional to the usual number of teats found on a cow (four), goat or sheep (two). Information has been provided on the occurrence of teat abnormalities in the indigenous goat breeds in Nigeria but there remains a dearth of information on the incidence of teat abnormalities in the Kalahari red goats (KRG). Fifty two female lactating KRG aged between 2-5 years were classified on the basis of the number of SNT by visual appraisal. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and independent sample T-test. 76.1% of the population possesses SNT, 10.9% had one, 43.5% had two, 10.9% had three while 10.9% had four SNT. 60% of the population of KRG with SNT had none of such teats functional/patent. 11.4% had one patent SNT, 25.7% had two patent SNT, 2.9% had four patent SNT. The location of the SNT in relation to the primary teat reveals that 86.3% of the SNT are cranial, 1.3% of the SNT are caudal, 10.0% of the SNT are medial while 2.5% of the SNT are lateral. 74.36% of KRG studied had symmetrical udders while 25.45% had asymmetrical udder. The study concluded that possible reproductive implications of high percentage of SNT in KRG may include neonatal death of kids especially in multiple births and higher risk of mastitis in does. Reproductive Veterinarians and breeders should watch out for goats with SNT when carrying out breeding soundness examination.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of the few studies which have investigated the occurrence of Supernumerary teats in the Kalahari red goats with its reproductive implications. The study also provides one of the earliest reports of Supernumerary teats that are positioned lateral and medial to the primary teat in the goat.
Agricultural Sciences » Animal Review » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Ambient Particulate Matter (PM) Evaluation in Gasabo District, Rwanda

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Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Policy

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Abstract
Industries, and Vehicles emit air pollutants; all among these pollutants Particulate Matter (PM) has the greatest effects on human health like respiratory diseases and effects on environment like global warming and climate change. To find the levels of ambient PM air pollutants in commercial and bus-stations areas of Gasabo-district, one of the three districts of Kigali the capital city Rwanda was the main purpose of this research. The Air Visual Nodes instruments were used to measure values of PM concentration in microgram per cubic-meter (µg/m3). Questionnaire method was used where the total of 125 respondents for all sites was randomly selected to respond some questions before starting sampling activity in July, 2018. Sampling showed that; In both Batsinda and Kinamba commercial areas, level of PM is between (20-60)µg/m3 for PM2.5 and (80-130)µg/m3 for PM10. While in both Kagugu and Gakinjiro (Gisozi) commercial areas level of PM is between (15-45)µg/m3 for PM2.5 and (50-110)µg/m3 for PM10. In Batsinda bus-station level of PM is between (25-60) µg/m3 for PM2.5 and (80-130)µg/m3 for PM10. While in Kakiru bus-station, level of PM is between (15-40)µg/m3 for PM2.5 and (80-120)µg/m3 for PM10. Interview showed vehicle and decomposition of waste materials emissions as source of air pollutants. World Health Organization Guideline indicate that 10µg/m3 for PM2.5 and 20µg/m3 for PM10 are adequate, these above findings are high compared to these guidelines that is why education for all toward good air quality would be the best option in reducing air pollutants in Kigali city.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the level of ambient particulate matter (PM) in Kigali. As result, it will help to reduce air pollutants concentration in Kigali for better human health and environmental protection in general.
Economics » International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Policy » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Microscopic Detection of Haemoparasites in Muscovy Ducks (Anas Platyrynchos) in Gombe State, Nigeria

Research Article
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Journal: International Journal of Veterinary Sciences Research

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Abstract
This present study aimed to detect haemosporidians from the blood of Muscovy ducks in Gombe State Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from 880 apparently healthy ducks of both sexes from the month of April, 2015 to February, 2016. Microscopic examination of Giemsa stained thin blood films revealed 16.14% overall prevalent rate of haemoparasites. The prevalence was found to be highest in Yamaltu/Deba LGA (23.08%) and least in Funakaye LGA (7.83%). Among the four genera of haemoparasites detected, Aegyptinella species (7.73%) was most prevalent followed by Leucocytozoon species (5.57%) and Haemoproteus species (2.16%) while Plasmodium specie (0.68%) was the least. Prevalence rate was found to be significantly higher (p<0.0001) in the young (22.68%) compared to the adults (10.43%) ducks. The female (18.54%) were found to be more infected than the male (13.58%) ducks, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.0565). The prevalence of haemoparasites was found to be significantly (p<0.0001) higher during the rainy (24.55%) compared to the dry (7.27%) season. This present study represents the first to provide evidence of haemoparasites in Muscovy ducks in Gombe State, Nigeria. There is need for further researches on the epidemiology of haemoparasites in Muscovy ducks reared under extensive management system in Nigeria. Strategic control of arthropods and maintenance of strict biosecurity in and around poultry houses will curb transmission of arthropod borne haemoparasites among village poultry species.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the occurrence of avian haemoparasites in free range Muscovy ducks in developing countries including Nigeria. The study has also contributed to the existing literatures concerning haemoparasites infections in domesticated ducks in the world.
Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Veterinary Sciences Research » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 2

Determination of Heavy Metals in Tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus) and Water Samples from Lake Hayq, South Wollo, Ethiopia

Research Article
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Journal: International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research

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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the concentration of heavy metals in Lake Hayq water and fish muscles samples during dry and wet seasons. Samples of fish organs and water were collected from four sampling sites of Lake Hayq. An optimal procedure required 8 mL of (69%) HNO3 and 6 mL of (30%) H2O2 to mineralize powdered samples in open refluxed digestion vessels: 0.5 g of the fish body for 2:30 hrs at temperature of 130oc.Concentrations of six metals (Pb, Ni, Zn, Cd, Cu and Cr) in water and their accumulation in the edible tissue of Nile Tilapia were determined by FAAS. The results revealed that the average heavy metal concentrations in water samples were; Pb (0.006), Ni (0.018), Zn (0.083), Cd (0.004), Cu (0.1) and Cr (0.003) mg/L in the lake. The average concentration of heavy metals in fish samples were; Pb (2.02), Ni (2.29), Zn (55.52), Cd (1.57), Cu (11.18) and Cr (0.745) mg/Kg. Among the detected metals, zinc (Zn) showed a maximum accumulation in the edible muscle of Nile Tilapia fish from Lake Hayq. The concentrations of the metals (Pb, Zn, Cd, and Cu) were below the recommended limit by WHO, USEPA and FAO. For fish the highest accumulations of nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr) concentration were observed above the recommended limit by FAO/ WHO. Application of the statistical t-test on heavy metal analysis has shown that there was no significant difference between fish as well as water samples of the lake for all sites.
Contribution/ Originality
The paper's primary contributions is finding the pollution of the aquatic environment of heavy metals water and fish muscles samples during dry and wet seasons and produce an information of edible fish quality by standards of WHO/FAO, especially concern in South Wollo, Lake Hayq.
Chemistry & Materials Sciences » International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research » Month: 01-2019 Issue: 1

Purchasing Power Parity Hold in Major SAARC Countries? Panel Cointegration Analysis

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Journal: Quarterly Journal of Econometrics Research

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Abstract
In an effort to provide a better understanding of the large variation in price levels between countries, this paper examines the validity of the purchasing power parity (PPP) hypothesis using monthly data of SAARC countries over the period of 2000-2017. We utilized four econometric tests to examine the existence of this hypothesis in the understudy region. Panel results show that PPP seems to be moderately held in a panel of SAARC, while in the country by country analysis we find partial support of PPP for all economies. We also find that the price and exchange rate have a long-run relationship while ECM analysis shows that the exchange rate and price differential are correlated in the short run, and price and exchange rate have bidirectional causality relationship. In addition, the dummy variable analysis shows that the Global Financial Crisis 2007-08 significantly affect the SAARC countries exchange rate in terms of depreciation. However, these types of external shocks do not have any permanent effect on the real exchange rate and other things remaining the same, no active policy intervention is warranted for the sustainability of external balance.
Contribution/ Originality
This contributes to the existing literature by estimating the long-run parameters and short-run dynamics to check the speed of adjustments towards the long-run equilibrium.
Economics » Quarterly Journal of Econometrics Research » Month: 06-2019 Issue: 1