Volume 3 Number 2 (March 2018)

A screen-printed carbon electrode modified with a chitosan-based film for in situ heavy metal ions measurement

Kuo-Hui Wu, Je-Chuang Wang, Shin-Yi Yu, Bing-De Yan

SEM images and FTIR data of the working electrode surface showed that Mn+ ions were adsorbed on chitosan (Chit) and crosslinked chitosan-carbon nanotube (Chit-CNT) films. XPS revealed that chelation of Mn+ ions with the –NH2/–OH groups from chitosan, –COOH group from carbon nanotubes, and aqua ligands represents a possible structure of the active Mn+ species in the Chit-based film. The electrochemical behaviors of the Chit-based film modified screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) were characterized for individual and simultaneous detection of Cu2+, Pb2+, Hg2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, and As3+ ions. For individual detection, the concentration range was 0.50–3.00 ppm with a detection limit of 0.4 ppm for Cu2+; 1.0–4.0 ppm with a detection limit of 0.5 ppm for Pb2+; 1.0–5.0 ppm with a detection limit of 0.8 ppm for Hg2+. For simultaneous detection, the lab chip sensor was successfully used to determine the concentrations of Pb2+, Cu2+, Hg2+, and As3+ ions simultaneously.

Contribution to the study of the chemical composition of Lemon Verbena: Aloysia triphylla (Hert). Britt. cultivated in Morocco

By combining gas chromatography and mass spectrometry we have identified the main constituents of the essential oil of verbena tea (Alyosia triphylla) grown in Morocco. Harvests carried out at different stages of development of the plant allowed to characterize the qualitative variations of the active substances of the essential oil. The comparison of our results with the data of the literature gives some details on the different chemo types and the chemical diversity of this aromatic plant with high medicinal and economic value.

Pollution and Foraging Behavior of Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis in Bujumbura Bay of Lake Tanganyika, Burundi: Conservation Implications

Claver Sibomana, Joselyne Nduwayezu

Lake Tanganyika is threatened by overfishing, deforestation, climate change and water pollution. Very few studies have investigated the effects of pollution on semi-aquatic communities such as aquatic birds. This study investigates the effects of pollution on the foraging behavior of pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis in the Bujumbura bay of Lake Tanganyika. We use data on foraging behavior of this bird species collected in 2002 as background and data collected over two periods during which we assessed change in water environmental parameters. The sampling site is located in the littoral zone next to the channel mouths that collect rainfall and wastewater from Bujumbura city. The results show a change in the number of observations of foraging pied kingfishers during the course of the day with a significantly lower number of observations in the morning than in the study carried out in 2002. The most frequent foraging behavior also changed from direct dives in 2002 to repeated hovering before diving in 2016. These changes could be accounted for by pollution as the water parameters data collected during the same time periods reveal an increase in turbidity while dissolved oxygen levels dropped. Increased turbidity may have caused reduction of visibility of these visual predatory birds. Attention should be given to measures toward alleviation of pollution of Lake Tanganyika for the conservation of semi-aquatic communities which are members of this deep and ancient lake ecosystem.

Effects of Fruit Thinning and Percentage of Retained- Fruitlets on Fruit Quantity and Quality of Siam Mandarin Cultivar at Kintamani, Bali, Indonesia

Santirupini I.A., Agung IG.A.M.S., Nurjaya IG.M.O.

Fruit thinning in Siam mandarin (Citrus nobilis var microcarpa L.) has been applied in order to improve quality of the fruit involving bigger or higher fruit weght, the sweet of the fruit hence higher market price. The experiment of hand thinning was conducted in farmer’s orchard in Bayung Gede village, district of Kintamani, Bangli regency, Indonesia province from 18 June until September 2015. The objective of the experiment was to investigate the effects of stage of fruit thinning and percentage of retained fruitlets on quantity and quality of fruits of siam mandarin cultivar. A randomized complete block design with three replicates was used in the experiment. Two treatment factors were the stage of fruit thinning (stage of fruitlet size of 10 mm, 30 mm and 50 mm) and percentage of retained fruitlet on a branch (100%, 75%, 50% and 25%). Results of experiment showed that thinning at the stage of 30 mm fruitlet size significantly increased fruit diameter fruit diameter, weight fruit-1, and fruit weight bunch-1. Thinning at the stage of 50 mm fruitlet size could only increase sugar content in the fruit of siam mandarin when retained fruitlets on the branch were 25%. Thinning at the stage of 10 mm and 30 mm fruitlet sizes resulted in higher ratio of sugar:acid content (7.34 and 7.39 respectively) than thinning at that of 50 mm. The size of fruit (diameter and fruit weight) and ratio of sugar:acid content were not significantly affected by percentage of retained fruitlets on a branch.

Effect of stocking density on growth performance of monosex tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) with Indian spinach (Basella alba) in a recirculating aquaponic system

An experiment was conducted to compare effect of stocking density on growth performance of monosex tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) with Indian spinach (Basella alba) in a recirculating aquaponic system. The experiment was set-up for 8 weeks under 4 treatments with three replications, where stocking density of tilapia were 30, 50, 70 and 90 fish/tank (300 litre) in treatments T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively. Water from the tank was recirculated through a vegetable growing tray. Each of the tray was 0.15 m3in size, which was planted with 12 plants (Indian spinach). The fish of all the treatments was fed two times a day. During the experimental period,the range of water temperature was 27.1 to 31.50 C, pH 7.48 to 8.28, ammonia 0.2 to 2.0 mg/l and dissolve oxygen 5.11 to 6.58 mg/l. At the end of the experiment, average weight gain, final length, specific growth rate (%/day), survival rate was significantly higher in T1 (30 fish/tank) treatment while the net yield of fish and plant biomass was higher in T2 (50 fish/tank) treatment.Therefore, the study suggests that stocking density of 50 fish/tank for tilapia, i.e. 167 fish/m3, is suitable for production of both plant and fish in a recirculating aquaponic system.

Effect of in Ovo injection with Nano- Selenium or Nano- Zinc on Post-Hatch Growth Performance and Physiological Traits of Broiler Chicks

Amal M. Hassan

The current study was aimed to investigate the effect of in ovo injection with Nano-selenium or Nano-zinc on post-hatch growth performance and physiological traits of broiler chicks under heat stress. Four hundred fertile broiler eggs from cobb500™ flock were randomly divided into four treatments (100 eggs each). First was normally without injection (control), second was injected with 15 ppm Nano-Selenium (SENPs) /egg, third treatment was injected by 15 ppm Nano-Zinc (ZnNPs)/egg and fourth treatment was injected with phosphate buffered saline (PBs) 15 ppm /egg. To study the post-hatch performance, A total number of 240 one day-old chicks were randomly distributed into 4 equal experimental treatments of 60 chicks each. Every treatment was sub-divided into three replicates (20 chicks/ each), were at lasted 5weeks. Results obtained could be summarized as follows: Nano-selenium explained higher chick's weight at hatch, chick's weight to egg weight ratio and hatchability % than all other treatments. At first week of age, the body weight (BW) in the nano-selenium treatment increased than the untreated (control) treatment, although the gastrointestinal tract weight was 0.44 % and the intestine weight was 0.8 %, this is explained by an augmentation in the length of both the length of the small intestine and the gastrointestinal tract by 12 % at 7 day of age. The highest live body weight and body weight gain and the best-feed conversion ratio were recorded with Nano- selenium than all other treatments at 35 day of age. In conclusion, under semi-arid conditions, usage the Nano-selenium are not harmful to the embryo (injected with 15 ppm) and can be used to improve the post-hatch performance of broiler under semi arid condition.

Flocculation of Reactive Blue 19 (RB19) using Alum and the Effects of Catalysts Addition

Le Phu Tuan, Vu Thi Kim Oanh, Le Duy Khuong, Nguyen Hai Hoa, Alfienido S. Burce

There are a variety of primary coagulants which can be used in a water treatment plant. One of the earliest, and still the most extensively used, is aluminum sulfate, also known as alum. Aluminum Sulfate (Alum) is one of the most commonly used flocculent in waste water treatment processes. Effectiveness of Alum in flocculation process is determined by many factors such as the effluents pH, flocculent dose as well as the use of catalyst to improve efficiency rate of flocculation. Hence special attention to these factors especially the use of catalyst has been brought about by this study. Experiments were carried out using Reactive Blue 19 Dye as the contaminant of waste water and two catalysts namely Calcium Hydroxide (CaOH2) and Poly Aluminum Chloride (PACl) were evaluated. The results obtained proved that indeed after addition of catalysts, removal efficiency rates of Alum can be increased up to 25% using Calcium Hydroxide and up to 35% using Poly Aluminum Chloride compared to Alum alone. The optimum conditions for this study were at pH 5.5 ~7.5, 300 mg/L of Alum 30seconds of rapid mixing time with 300 rpm , 30rpm of mixing rate for 5 minutes and 30 minutes of settling time. Moreover, Alum showed the highest performance under these conditions and using 50 mg/L PACl as catalyst with 98.52% of COD reduction and 90.60% of color reduction. In conclusion, Alum with the support of PACl as catalyst is an effective coagulant, which can reduce the level of COD and Dye Color in Reactive Blue 19 contaminated wastewater.

Study of polyembryony and development of molecular markers for identification of zygotic and nucellar seedlings in Khasi mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco)

Karishma Kashyap, Sofia Banu, Mukesh Nitin Shrivastava, Nirala Ramchiary

The objective of this work was to evaluate the occurrence of polyembryonic seedlings and other morphological parameters in Khasi mandarin during three harvest years and to identify zygotic (sexual) seedlings from nucellar (asexual) ones grown under in-vitro conditions using molecular markers. Embryos from 27 polyembryonic and 7 monoembryonic seeds of Khasi mandarin were grown in-vitro. DNA from seedlings and mother parent was analyzed using 16 ISSR and 5 RAPD primers, of which 4 ISSR and a set of 3 RAPD primers were effective to identify zygotic or nucellar origin of the seedlings. In-vitro culture enables maximum embryos of each seed to grow, favouring the origin of seedlings to be identified as zygotic. Among 69 tested individuals, 37 zygotic and 32 nucellar seedlings were recognized. In polyembryonic and monoembryonic seeds, 59.6% and 42.8% of the seedlings, respectively, have the sexual origin. Morphological characteristics of seeds and the seedlings generated varied significantly and were not correlated with polyembryony except for the clutch size and the number of branches. Polyembryonic seeds in the cultivar are high, ranging from 50.0%, 55.5% to 83.3% over three harvest years with more clutch size and the possibility of obtaining zygotic plants from them is high. In polyembryonic seeds not all zygotic seedlings were produced by small embryos located at the micropyle. Identification of zygotic seedlings by ISSR and RAPD markers in Khasi mandarin cultivar is efficient and reliable at an early developmental stage.

Economics of Groundnut Production among Smallholder Farmers in Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria

Lawal Haruna, Muhammad Auwal Ahmed

This study assessed economics of groundnut production among smallholder farmers in Michika local government area of Adamawa State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique which involves purposive selection of Michika and simple random selection of farmers from eight wards was embraced in collecting primary data from 172 farmers using structured questionnaire. The analytical tools used were mainly descriptive, gross margin and regression analysis. The analysis found that groundnut production is profitable with an average gross margin of N97,477.80, total revenue of N167,160, and net farm income of N 94,540.64 per hectare. The regression analysis indicated that Cobb-Douglas production function gave the best fit with R2 value of 0.748, implying that the specified factor inputs in the regression equation explained up to 74.8% of the variation in groundnut output and only 25.2% was accounted for by the random error term. Production inputs such as farm size, labour, agrochemicals, seeds and farming experience were statistically significant at varying levels of probability. This means that any increase in such inputs would bring about increase in groundnut output. Resource use efficiency analyses indicate that the ratios of MVP and MFC in respect to seeds, labour and Agrochemicals were greater than unity and hence were under-utilized by the farmers during production period. Therefore, policies aimed at assigning more production inputs to farmers should be introduce by government in order to enhance farmers’ output and profitability.

Sweet Potato Production for Poverty Alleviation in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Aboajah F.N., Ejechi M.E, Viashima S.S , Adeyongu S.K., Muogbo P.C.

The study investigated sweet potato production for poverty alleviation in Nasarawa State of Nigeria. Data were collected from 180 sweet potato farmers randomly selected from Keffi, Kokona and Karu Local Government Areas and interviewed using structured interview schedule. Results of the study show that adult males played a dominant role in sweet potato production especially in land preparation 79% and ridging 81% respectively, while women and children played major role in planting 97%, weeding 94% and harvesting 93% in the area. The study further reveals that if sweet potato is well managed, it has the potential for food security and alleviating farmers from their poverty. This suggests that sweet potato should be given adequate attention in terms of production, value addition and marketability.

Characteristics of hunters and the socio-economic importance of selling game on the survival of village households in the Kisangani Forest Region (R.D.C.)

Consolate Kaswera Kyamakya, Richard Mendako Kashinda, Kasereka Vitekere

The present study focuses on the description of hunting professionals and intends to determine the contribution of hunting in the survival of village households in the former Province Orientale. It contributes to the in-depth knowledge of the profile of these key players in the commercial bushmeat market and the understanding of the socio-economic context at the first level of the game sales chain. The methods used to achieve the set objectives are summarized first of all in the questionnaire which made it possible to establish the survey form containing the identity of the interviewees and other descriptions, the interview, then the direct observation on the ground. , cost-benefit analysis and chi-square test and Anova. After tabulation and data processing, it appears that the hunters are all men whose age varies from 20 to 69 years. They come from different ethnic backgrounds and most of them are married and responsible for households. As a level of education, there are among them illiterates, primarians and some graduates. The results show that bushmeat consumption occurs 1 to 3 times per week in most village households. The average monthly hunter's income estimate is USD 58.18 to meet the multiple daily needs.

Geochemical investigations of a Portion Obu Hill Marble Deposit Okpella, Edo-State, Nigeria

Sanni E.B., Yusuf I., Umoru A.T., Osaghae S.O., Sule T.U.N, Yemi O.

The Obhu marble deposit is located at latitude 7o 21´ 31.2´´ to 7o 21´ 34.9´´ and longitude 6o 25´ 11.6´´ to 6o 25´ 18.0´´. The geochemical investigations of a portion of the Obhu hill marble deposit was aimed at investigating the reserve estimate in tonnage, rock mass/overburden volume and the geochemical composition of the deposit. This study was conducted by using vertical electrical sounding (VES) geophysical method to obtain the geo-electric parameters of the deposit, and to determine the reserve estimate of the Marble deposit of study area. The result shows that the reserve tonnage is 4.6 x 106 Tons and rock mass reserve/overburden volume ratio is 9:1.The chemical analysis were compared with the RMRDC of Nigeria for each element suitable for production of cement, fertilizer, iron, steel and other industrial uses. The MgO values of the samples 1 and 2 does not falls within the acceptable value of 6 % of RMRDC, with the exception of sample 3 which falls within the acceptable limit. CaO, Al2O3 and P2O5 values of the samples falls within the acceptable limits of RMRDC and so suggest that the marble can be put to industrial use, while the Fe2O3 content of sample 2 and 3 makes them probably not best suited for industrial use, except for sample 1 having a lower value of 1.85 %. The silica SiO2 content values for the three samples exceeded the recommended standard of RMRDC of 5 %. This result reveals that the marble deposit is suitable for most industrial use.

On-Street Parking Prohibition and Travel Behaviour of Motorists in Aba, Nigeria

Ogbonna Chukwuemeka Godswill

The prevalence of on-street parking in the city of Aba has continued to generate much concern to all road users and the government in Nigeria as it hinders traffic flow and increases traffic accidents. Consequently, the government initiated the policy of on-street parking prohibition at the downtown area of Aba, leading to increased travel difficulty for motorists. This study examined the policy of on-street parking prohibition and the resultant travel behaviour of motorists. The study adopted survey design whereby primary data were collected with the aid of structured questionnaire, measurement, and observation. The sample size of 400 respondents was determined from the study population of 420,665 motorists using the Standard Traffic Count (STC) approach. Cluster, purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to proportionately select the roads and respondents used in the study. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square were used for data analysis. The study revealed among other thing that: there were significant differences in the geometric characteristics of roads where on-street parking was prohibited and where on-street parking was not prohibited. On-street parking prohibition was found to have impacted the travel behaviour of motorists as follows: (i) motorists travel less with single occupancy vehicles (SOVs) but more with KEKE (tricycle) during the working hours; (ii) there is reduction in the frequency of trips by motorists to the city centre whereas they divert to the outlying areas; and (iii) there is increased city bound (non-work) trips during early morning and late evening hours. It was recommended among others that government should embark on the construction of modern off-street parking facilities at designated locations within the city of Aba. Government should also recover sidewalks and road setbacks which have been totally invaded by commercial activities in Aba, and develop paid curb-parking there as alternative to on-street parking.

Effects of different plant leaf extracts on postharvest life and quality of mango (Mangifera indica L.)

S Shrestha, B Pandey, BP Mishra

An experiment was carried out to investigate the efficacy of plant leaf extracts on elongation of shelf life and maintenance of quality of harvested mangoes. Freshly harvested mature green mangoes cv. 'Calcuttia maldah' of uniform size and weight were dipped in 50% concentration of different plant leaf extracts and stored in ambient condition (32±2ºC and 65±5 % RH). The treatments were leaf extracts from five different plants viz. neem (Azadirachta indica), chinaberry (Melia azadirach), lantana (Lantana camara), ashok (Polyalthea longifolia) and cinnamomum (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) while control was the other treatment. In addition, carbendazim (fungicide) was also kept as a benchmark treatment. Each treatment composed of 5 mangoes and replicated thrice. For each replication destructive sample was also kept. The treatment with neem leaf extract gave the most promising result as there was minimum physiological weight loss, maximum ascorbic acid content, maximum acidity and minimum pH. Similarly, shelf life, total soluble solids, freshness and firmness were highest in neem leaf extract treated fruits next to the carbendazim treated fruits. Control was the most ineffective of all the treatment regarding all the parameters.

Analysis of Channel and Structure of Cattle Marketing Intermediaries in Mubi Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria

Musa Y.M, Iheanacho A.C, Nyiatagher Z.T

This study determined the Marketing Channel and Structure of Cattle among Intermediaries in Mubi Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria. Objectives of this study area to examine the marketing channel for cattle; determine the marketing structure of the intermediaries and identifying the major constraints in cattle marketing in the study area. Simple random sampling technique was employed to select 123 respondents in Mubi International Cattle Market. Primary data were collected through the use of structured questionnaire from the market. Descriptive statistics and Gini-coefficient were used in analyse the data of this study. The result shows that 87% sell live cattle, 13% sell butcher pieces, while 61.8% and 27.6% sell their cattle in secondary and terminal markets respectively. About 73% had their major source of trading cattle in north-east and 26% are from other countries (Cameroon, Chad and Niger). Gini- coefficients of 0.5673, 0.6340, 0.452 and 0.5719 were obtained for wholesalers, retailers, butchers and brokers respectively, while Respondents indicates that insurgency (insecurity) (78%), inadequate market information (74%), inadequate credit facility (73.2%), cost of transportation (72.4%), double charges by market officials been the least (48.8%) were some of the major constraints. The study recommended that good roads, better and cheap means of transportation should be provided to the marketers through their cooperatives.

Analysis of Genetic Impurity of An Original Cultivar Duku (Lansium parasiticum (Osbeck.) K.C. Sahni & Bennet.), from Jambi, Indonesia Using ITS and MatK Gene

Syamsuardi, Chairul, Pinta Murni

Duku Kumpeh is a original cultivar of Duku (Lansium parasiticum) from Kumpeh a local village in the Jambi, Indonesia. The understanding about genetic information is very important for sustainability used of this prospoctive germplasm of tropical fruit. Identification molecular is very essential to distinguish duku kumpeh with other cultivars of duku in Indonesia. Molecular characteristic of sixteen accessions of Duku Kumpeh were clarified using ITS and MatK gene. DNA from sixteen accessions duku from Jambi were extracted using Genomic KIT plant and amplified them using primer of ITS and MatK gene. The results of amplification DNA samples using both of primer ITS and MatK gene indicated that all of fifteen samples were effectively amplified. So this both of two genes are potential to use for barcoding DNA Duku. Six haplotype of ITS gene and eleven haplotype of MatK gene were identified. The accessions from kumpeh were have different haplotypes. There were genetic impurity in accessions of duku kumpeh. Genetic study and selection of duku kumpeh accessions with superior quality and similar genetic composition were needed in the future.

Evaluating the In vivo Efficacy of Copper-Chitosan Nanocomposition for Treating Vascular Wilt Disease in Date Palm

Elwy A. Mohamed, Mohamed H. Gaber, Sherif F. Elsharabasy

Date palm, Phoenix dactylifera, as one of the most important fruit crops in Egypt and many other countries, can be affected by many fungal diseases, among which the vascular wilt disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum, is considered the most deteriorating one. This study aims at evaluating the efficiency of Copper-Chitosan Nanopcomposition for treating the vascular wilt disease in date palm. The study relies mainly on beleaguering the disease via the double-role functionality of copper-chitosan nanocomposition, i.e. its potential antifungal effect on the fungal pathogen, besides its capability to enhance the immune responses of the infected plant. In this regard, chitosan nanoparticles were prepared according to the ionic gelation method, whereas copper nanoparticles were prepared according to the chemical reduction method. Physicochemical characterization of both chitosan and copper nanoparticles was performed using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Copper-chitosan nanocomposition could significantly reduce the vascular wilt disease severity; this means that the nanocomposition can be used in the future for developing new nano-fungicides to control such pathogens.

Growth Performance, Shank Pigmentation and Blood Profile of Broiler Chickens Fed Neem Leaf Meal-Based Diets

Akintomide Aanuoluwapo Adeyemi, Onibi Gbenga Emmanuel

The many benefits of all parts of neem (Azadirachta indica) tree are well documented. Thus, this study was done to ascertain the effects of sundried neem leaf meal (NLM) on growth performance, shank pigmentation and blood profile of broiler chickens. One hundred and forty four day-old chicks were randomly distributed after 1 week pre-experimental period to four experimental diets which comprised NLM at 0% (control), 5% (5NLM), 10% (10NLM) and 15% (15NLM). A completely randomized design was adopted with 12 birds per replicate and 3 replicates per treatment. Feed and water were given ad-libitum and other management practices were carried out. Initial weight of chicks and final weights at the end of the starter and finisher phases were taken. Feed intake was measured weekly and feed conversion ratio (FCR) calculated. Shank pigmentation was assessed from 3 birds/ replicate at the end of the trial. Blood samples were collected from 3 birds/ replicate at the end of the starter and finisher phases. For the starter phase, final weight, total weight gain and FCR were significantly influenced by NLM inclusion. Chicks fed control and 5NLM diets had similar higher values than others. Blood parameters were not significant except basophil values. At the finisher phase, total weight gain and FCR were not significantly different although feed intake significantly reduced with inclusion of NLM in the diets. Blood parameters were not significant except lymphocyte values. There was a non-significant increase in shank pigmentation with increase in NLM inclusion. It is concluded that NLM inclusion in broiler diets at both phases should not exceed 5% based on growth performance. Neem leaf meal increased yellow colouration of shank and was not harmful to broiler blood parameters.

The Effect of Different Irrigation Systems, Discharge, and Irrigation Intervals on Green Onion Growth and Yields

Galib A. Alkaabi, Abdulrazzak A. Jasim

An experiment was conducted in the field of the University of Baghdad in spring season of 2015 In loamy sand soil to evaluate the effect of different irrigation systems, discharge and irrigation intervals on green onion growth and yield, using locally combine implement which used for installation subsurface irrigation pipes and surface drip irrigation. Subsurface drip irrigation system and surface drip irrigation system as main plot treatment, three levels of discharge included 2.5, 3.0 and3.5 L\hr represented subplot treatment and two levels of irrigation intervals included: 4 days and 8 days represented sub subplot treatment were used in this study. Root diameter, stem diameter, green weight, dry weight, and stem length were measured. Nested design under randomized complete block design (CRBD) with three replications was used in this experiment. Least significant differences (L.S.D) at 0.05 levels were used to compare the mean of treatments. The results were showed the following: Subsurface irrigation was superior in getting higher 78.6 gm dry weight and 232.2 gm green weight and 31.8 mm stem diameter and root diameter stood 45.2 mm and stem length stood 55.3 cm comparing with other treatments. 3.5 L/h discharge was superior in getting the highest 81.8 gm dry weight, 249.4 gm green weight, stem length stood 70.8 cm, root diameter stood 45.4 mm and stem diameter stood 32.6 mm comparing with other treatments. 4 days irrigation interval was superior in getting higher 80.2 gm dry weight, 231.4 gm green weight, root diameter stood 46.3 mm, stem diameter stood 32.7 mm and stem length stood 55.3 cm comparing with other treatments. Triple interaction between subsurface irrigation system, 3.5 L / h discharge and4 days irrigation interval was superior in getting the highest dry weight stood 86.4 gm, green weight stood 252.3 gm, stem length stood 78 cm, root diameter stood 50.6 mm and stem diameter stood 35.3 mm comparing with other interactions treatments.

Evaluation of soybean lines for resistance to rust (phakopsorapachyrhizi)

N. D. Pajo, T. Vange, P. A. Kortse

Among the diseases that can reduce soybean production is rust disease caused by the fungus Phakopsorapachyrhizi. The aim is to evaluate the resistance of soybean genotypes to rust disease and to study there interactions between agronomic traits. The study was conducted at field and screen house in the University of Agriculture Makurdibetween julyto november2016. A total of 10 soybean genotypes were evaluated for resistance to rust disease. After inoculation in the laboratory, three lines TGX-1835-10E, TGX-1987-10F and TGX1945-4F showed a consistent moderate resistance to Phakopsorapachyrhizi. These soybeanGenotypeowered earlier and had the highest seed yield per plant (799.51kg/ha, 766.75K g/ha and 742.63 respectively). In contrast, the lines TGX-1949-10F and TGX-1485-1D which is the control , flowered at about 43 days after planting, had seed yield per plant of (404.30 and 254.23kg/ha, respectively),these lines had significantly lower yield and susceptible to rust. In the field, four lines had seed weight per plant significantly heavier than TGX-1949-10F and TGX-1485-1D, namely TGX-1835-10E, TGX-1987-10F, TGX-1904-6F and TGX-1945-4E and using a polygon view, the best performing lines were visualized as TGX-1987-10F was best in Environments one and TGX-1835-10E in two.Base on average environment coordination (AEC) procedure, TGX-1945-1F and TGX-1945-4E had yields above the grand means and stable while TGX-1945-4F and TGX-1935-3F were identified with high but unstable yield, the soybean lines with heavier seed weight per plant should potentially serve as genetic material to develop high yielding soybean varieties and resistant to rust disease.

Evaluation the Performance Efficiency of Manufactured, Modified and Assembled Combine Implement and Studying Itâ€™s Impact on Some Soil Physical Properties and Total Costs

Abdulrazzak A. Jasim, Osama H. Jwer

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficiency performance of the combine implement which manufactured and assembled locally and studying it’s effect on some soil physical properties and total costs in one of the Agricultural College University of Baghdad Experimental Fields in loamy soil, 2017. Brazilian Massy Ferguson Tractor (MF-650) was used with the combine implement as a machinery unit. Three machinery unit speeds included 3.15, 4.60 and 6.10 km/h and seedling treatments included manufactured combine implement, seedling and fertilizer implement and manual seedling were used in this experiment. Soil bulk density, soil moisture content, amount of added water and total costs were measured. Nested design under randomized complete block design with three replications was used in this experiment. Least significant differences (LSD = 0.05) level under 0.05 probability was used to compare treatment means. The results can be summarized as following: 1. Incrased machinery unit speeds from 3.15 to 4.60 km.h-1 led to significant increase in soil bulk density from 1.30 to 1.36 Mg.mˉ³and significant increase in soil moisture content from 0.18 to 0.20 %. 2. Manufactured combine implement treatment was superior in getting less soil bulk density stood 1.22 Mg.mˉ³ higher soil moisture content stood 0.22%.and less amount of added water during the season stood 1103.43 mm. and less costs stood 796370 Iraqi Dinars. 3. The interaction between 3.15 km.h-1machinery speed and manufactured combine implement got less soil bulk density stood 1.19 Mg.mˉ³, while the interference between 6.1 km.h-1 machinery unit speed and manufactured equipment was superior in obtaining a higher moisture content stood 0.229%. 4. Using the locally manufacturing modified combine implement for primary and secondary tillage, shallow furrow opener, seedling and fertilization in one time was successfully done in this study with high performance efficiency.

The Effect of Irrigation systems and Planting Methods on Soil Porosity and Soil Electrical Conductivity and Potato Yield sunder Two Irrigation Intervals

Abdulrazzak Abdullatif Jasim, Ibraheem Sahar Ibraheem

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of irrigation systems, planting methods and irrigation intervals on soil porosity and soil electrical conductivity and potato yields for fall season of 2016 in Yousufia Area. Three irrigation systems included Sprinkler Irrigation (S), Drip irrigation (D),and Furrow Irrigation (F), two different irrigation intervals included (4 day irrigation interval (I1) and 8 day irrigation interval (I2)) and two methods of planting included (Mechanical planting (M) and Manual (Hand) planting (H) were used in the experiment. Soil Porosity, electrical conductivity of a saturated soil extract (Ece), average weight of potato tuber, and plant yield were measured in this study. Split split plots arrangment under Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates, were used in this experiment. The means of treatments were compared by using least significant difference (LSD=0.05) under probability of 0.05. The results can be summarized as follows: 1- Drip irrigation was superior in obtaining the least value of the electrical conductivity stood 2.76 ds.m-1, highest potato yield stood 811 gm. plantˉ¹ and highest value for the average weight of potato tuber was 150 gm. Also, the furrow irrigation treatment was superior in obtaining the highest value of soil porosity stood, 0.44 cm3.cm-3. 2- 4 days irrigation interval got a significant higher single plant yield stood 731 gm.plant-1, and potato tuber weight average stood 117.83 gm and got the least value of electrical conductivity stood 3.40 ds.m-1, whereas 8 days irrigation interval was superior in getting the highest value of porosity, stood 0.40 cm3.cm-3. 3- Mechanical planting method resulted in obtaining the highest value of porosity, stood 0.40 cm3.cm-3, and the highest yield for a single plant value stood 703 gm.plant-1, and the highest value of potato tuber average weight stood 131.33 gm. 4- The interaction between drip irrigation and 4 days irrigation interval was superior compared to other interactions in obtaining the least value of the electrical conductivity (Ece) stood 2.52 ds.m-1, and highest value of single plant yield stood 884 gm.plant-1, and highest value for the average weight of potato tuber stood 161.17 gm. On the other hand, the interaction between furrow irrigation method and the 8 days irrigation interval in obtaining the highest value for porosity which stood 0.44 cm3.cm-3. 5- The interaction between drip irrigation method and mechanical planting method was superior compared to other interactions in obtaining the highest yield value for single plant which stood 846 gm.plant-1, and the highest value for the weight average of potato tuber stood 157.50 gm. while, the interaction between furrow irrigation method and mechanical planting recorded the highest value for porosity which stood 0.46 cm3.cm-3. 6- The interaction between 4 days irrigation interval and mechanical planting showed a superiority in obtaining the highest value for single plant yield which stood 770 gm.plant-1, and highest value for the weight average for potato tuber stood 140.44 gm, compared to other interactions, and the interaction between 8days irrigation interval and mechanical planting method was superior to obtain the highest value of porosity stood 0.42 cm3.cm-3. Also, the interaction between 4 days irrigation interval and the manual (hand) planting methods was superior to obtain the least value for electrical conductivity for soil solution stood 3.34 ds.m-1. 7- The triple interaction between drip irrigation, 4 days irrigation interval, and mechanical planting method was superior in obtaining the highest yield for a single plant which stood 936 gm.plant-1 and the highest value of the weight average of potato tuber which stood 169.33 gm and the lowest value for electrical conductivity of soil solution which stood 2.50 ds.m-1 compared to other interactions. While the interaction between furrow irrigation method, 8 days irrigation interval, and mechanical planting method was superior to obtain the highest value of soil porosity stood 0.48 cm3.cm-3.

Assessment of Climatic Factors on Growth and Yield of Maize Variety as Influenced by Rates of Sunshine Organic Manure and NPK 20:10:10 Fertilizer

Arije D.N, Ewulo B.S,Akinseye F.M, Adejoro S.A.

Maize is one of the most important cereal crops in West Africa. Its production in Nigeria has been hindered by inconsistency in rainfall pattern and low fertility especially in Akure, Ondo State. Two experiments were conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in 2016 growing season (wet and dry seasons) to determine the effects of Sunshine Organic Manure and NPK 20:10:10 fertilizer on the growth and yield maize variety, as well in soil fertility improvement. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications per treatment. Suwan-1-SR-Ymaize varietywas used for the experiment and Sunshine Organic manure was applied at the rates of 0, 60, 90, and 120kg N ha-1while NPK 20:10:10 was used as standard at the rate of 70 kg N ha-1. Growth parameters (plant height and number of leaves per plant) were taken at two weeks interval for 12 weeks. At harvest, yield parameters (Seed weight/plant, Weight of 1000 seed (g), Number of seeds/cob, Yield in t ha-1, cob length (cm), cob girth (cm)) were determined. The following weather data were collected; Daily rainfall, maximum & minimum temperature and solar radiation, while the soil data collected were; pH, total N, available phosphorus, potassium, organic carbon, and bulk density. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for the data analyses. Mean separation was done using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results showed an increase in growth and yield parameters recorded with increasing application rates of Sunshine Organic Manure in both growing season.

Effect of feeding broiler chicken on soybean oil and palm oil supplemented with some feed additives on the quality characteristics of processed chicken nuggets

Engy F. Zaki, El Faham A.I., Nematallah G.M.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of feeding broiler chicken on different vegetable oils with feed additives on the quality characteristics of chicken nuggets. A total of 216 one-day-old chicks of (Hubbard) strain were randomly assigned to six dietary treatments as (2×3) factorial designs where two sources of dietary oil contained soybean oil and palm oil with three levels of commercial multi-enzyme feed additives. Treatments were: soybean oil only (T1), soybean oil+ ZAD (T2), soybean oil+ AmPhi-BACT (T3), palm oil only (T4), palm oil + ZAD (T5) and palm oil + AmPhi- BACT (T6). Results showed that chicken nuggetsof T3 group had the higher pH value. No significant differences were found in cooking loss between (T1, T5 andT6) and nuggets of T3and T4. Nugget of T2 group had the higher T.B.A value. No significant effect on shrinkage % of nuggets samples.

Effect of Cow Manure Dosages as Organic Fertilizer on the Productivity of Organic Rice in West Sumatra, Indonesia

Atman, B. Bakrie, R. Indrasti

This research was conducted on rice paddy area at the Simarasok Village, West Sumatra Province, Indonesia, aimed at investigating the effect of dosage of cow dung as organic fertilizer on growth, yield component and production of organic rice. The experiment was arranged using a Complete Randomized Block Design with four treatments and six replications. The treatment was organic fertilizer of cow dung composted using local microbial organisms with four dosage levels, namely: a) 2 tons/ha; b) 4 tons/ha; c) 6 tons/ha; and d) 8 tons/ha. The rice variety used was the Kuriak Kusuik and the observed variables included: leaf color score, plant height, maximum number of tillers, number of productive tillers, panicle length, number of grains per panicle, percentage of empty grain, weight of 1000 grains, and grain yield. The result showed that the dosage of organic fertilizer of cow dung had significant effect on leaf color score at 56 days after planting (DAP), number of productive tillers, number of grains per panicle, and grain yield. In contrast, plant height, maximum number of tillers, panicle length, weight of 1,000 grains, and empty grain were not significantly affected. It was found that there was a positive relationship between the dosages of organic fertilizer of cow dung with the grain yield. The addition of cow dung as the organic fertilizer as much as 1 ton/ha to the soil could cause an increase in the yield of grain by 0.097 ton/ha.

Analysis of Socio-Economic Factors Affecting Fish Marketing in Igbokoda Fish Market, Ondo State, Nigeria

Agbebi F.O., Adetuwo K. I.

The study analyzed the socio-economic factors affecting fish marketing in Igbokoda fish market, Ondo State, Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was used in selection of the respondents. Sample size comprised eighty fish marketing households. Questionnaire was used for data collection. Results revealed that fish marketing in the area is dominated by females (88.7%). Majority (91.3%) were married with an average household size of 7 persons. Marketers earned an average income of N60, 000 per month. Majority (71.3%) do not belong to cooperative societies, 46.3% of the marketers have an average of 16.5 years of experience. Findings also revealed that fish marketing is efficient and lucrative in the area. However, constraints faced by the marketers include; inadequate storage facilities, price instability, inadequate capital, lack of access to credit, distance to market among others. It was therefore recommended that effective agricultural policies and programs should address marketers’ easy access to credits, infrastructural facilities such as good storage and processing facilities, electrification, good feeder roads should be provided in the area to reduce spoilage and unprofitable sales.

The Impact of Crop Rotation and Nutrient Levels on Nutrition Quality, Yield and Yield Components of Maize (Zea maize L)

Mahama Salifu

Cropping system in crop production has many advantages and ensures better crop growth and yielding. Crop rotation methods can show optimal plants densities for maximal photosynthetic efficiencies and plant growth. This study aimed at investigating the effects of different crop rotation systems: monoculture and biculture rotations, and different nitrogen levels on yield, yield components and grain nutrient quality. The lowest Soil-Plant Analysis Development (SPAD), Leaf Area Index( LAI), Protein, plant height, cob length, and grain yield were found in monoculture plot signifying the influence of crop rotation on these measured variables. Nitrogen level at 120kg/ha had a significant effect on Protein, plant height and grain yield on the monoculture field whiles Moisture content, Protein content number of rows per cob and grain yield were also significantly affected at 120kg/ha level of nitrogen application on the biculture plot

Effect of Mulvap 100% EC. (Dichlorvos) Spray Schedules on the Control of Insect Pests and Yield of Cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata L. Walp) in Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria

Awere S.U., Omeje T.E.

A field experiment to evaluate the effect of mulvap100%Ec. (Dichlorvos) spray schedules on the control of insect pests, and yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) was carried out during the 2016 cropping season at the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources Management Teaching and Research Farm of Enugu State University of Science and Technology Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria, using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four treatments replicated five times. There was a significant (P=0.05) effect of mulvap100%Ec. Spray schedules on all the parameters assessed. Mulvap100%Ec. Sprayed every 7 days performed significantly (P=0.05) better than any other insecticide spray schedule in the control of cowpea insect pests, in addition to producing significantly higher pod yield. This was followed by the insecticide sprayed every 14 days, every 21 days and no insecticide sprayed respectively. Plants sprayed with mulvap100%Ec. every 7 days recorded mean number of 0.00 aphids per plant, 2.69% leaf damage by leaf beetles, mean number of 0.64 flower thrips, 0.11 maruca larvae per plant, 0.35% dimpled and shriveled seeds and pod yield of 0.26 tonha-1 , followed by plants sprayed with the insecticide every 14 days that recorded mean number of 13.38 aphids per plant, 3.89% leaf damage by leaf beetles, mean number of 1.89 flower thrips per flower, mean number of 0.57 maruca larvae per flower, 1.89% dimpled and shriveled seeds, and pod yield of 0.13 tonha-1 and lastly plants sprayed with no insecticide that recorded mean number of 23.39 aphids per plant, 5.49% leaf damage by leaf beetles, mean number of 4.94 flower thrips per flower, mean number of 1.41 maruca larvae per flower, 3.81% dimpled and shriveled seeds, and pod yield of 0.11 tonha-1

Determination of Physiological, Biochemical and Molecular Effects of Zinc Stress on the Growth of Sunflower Seedlings (Helianthus annuus L.)

Ekrem BolukbasÄ±, Aysenur BolukbasÄ±, Sumer Aras

Heavy metal contamination is an important environmental problem all over the world. High concentrations of heavy metals cause permanent damage stocells and tissues. In this study, the toxic effects of zincheavy metal in sunflower plant in population and molecular parameters were investigated. The effects of zincheavymetalon sunflower seedlings were determined using the changes in population parameters; rootlength, dry weight, and total solubleprotein content. Total protein content of sunflower plants was determined in a relationship in the opposite direction increasing the amount of metal concentrations. Genotoxic effects of heavymetal of zinc on sunflower plants were revealed by using changes in genomic template stability (GTS). According to analyses, serious changes in genomic template stability were detected and these results were compared with the growth, dry weight and total soluble protein content of the seedlings grown at various zinc concentrations. Also, it was seen that the genomic template stability significantly affected the primary root length, root dry weight and root total soluble protein content. Positive correlations were observed between physiological, biochemical and molecular parameters in sunflower seedlings under zinc stress.In conclusion, a comparison between physiological, biochemical and molecular parameters shows that zinc is a genotoxic agent for sunflower plants.

Sensitivity of Colletotrichum species responsible for banana anthracnose disease to some fungicides used in postharvest treatments in CÃ´te dâ€™Ivoire

Luc BELE, Daniel Kra KouamÃ©, Hortense Diallo Atta

Anthracnose is a major postharvest disease of banana fruit in Côte d’Ivoire. Colletotrichum musae is usually associated with banana anthracnose disease. Persistent symptoms of anthracnose despite the post-harvest treatment requires accurate characterization of pathogens for effective control. The present study was conducted to identify the species of Colletotrichum responsible for banana anthracnose and test their sensitivity to fungicides. The morphological study and molecular identification of isolated species associated with anthracnose symptoms had identified Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Colletotrichum musae. Pathogenicity tests with representative isolates were conducted on symptomless banana fruits. All tested isolates caused anthracnose lesions on banana fruit, however C. musae was significantly more aggressive than C. gloeosporioides. Sensitivity tests including imazalil, azoxystrobin and boscalid showed a sensitivity of C. musae and C. gloeosporioides to imazalil. However, a resistance of both species to azoxystrobin and boscalid was recorded. This study highlighted the presence of resistants strains of Colletotrichum responsible for anthracnose in Côte d’Ivoire.

Review of Hussain Sagar Lake Pollution, Hyderabad, India

P. Mahammed Rafi, Acharya Jyothi Kusum

Hussain sagar lake, a historical lake which was built in 1562 by Hussain Shaw Wali is situated in the heart of Hyderabad city, India. Earlier up to 1930’s, it was the major water source to meet drinking and irrigation requirements for both twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Now this lake turned to virtual garbage bin with no adequate treatment for wastewater loads originated from point and non point sources. Therefore the lake loses the capability of self purification system which was an important factor that depends on the maximum uptake of oxygen from the atmosphere. Multiple projects were undertaken by the concerned authorities for the improvement of Hussain sagar lake and its catchment area. Recently With referring to the Lake health status, In 2006, HMDA, a governing body set up by Andhra Pradesh Government, initiated “Hussainsagar Lake and Catchment Area Improvement project” and set up STPs and wastewater interception and diversion structures. It also installed fountains to aerate the lake to improve its water quality as well as to add beauty. But these measures are lying ineffective to manage wastewater loads. This paper discusses that the Hussain Sagar lake water body over decades, has been polluted adversely from discharging of organic and inorganic pollutants through open drains as well as point and non point sources and also presents various measures had taken to rejuvenate Hussain Sagar Lake to its past glory.

Socio-economic Determinants of Cassava Production in Benue State, Nigeria.

Aboajah F.N., Onjewu S.S., Chia J.I., Okeme S.

The study examined the determinants of cassava production in Benue State Nigeria. A total of 180 farmers were selected across the state using multi-stage sampling technique. Data, which comprised information on the socio-economic characteristics and other quantitative variables relevant to the study, were collected using a well structured questionnaire and personal interviews. The social- economic characteristics were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequencies; simple multiple regression technique was used to analyze the production functions of cassava farmers. The results obtained revealed that R2 value was 0.419 indicating that 41.9% of variation in cassava production was accounted for by the variables considered in the study. Specifically, age of the farmers, occupation, household size, farming experience, level of education of farmers, farms size and fertilizer input where all significant and are important variables that affected the production of cassava in the study area. Given the enormous potential of cassava production in the study area, it has become so imperative that youths be encourage to participate effectively in cassava production, seeing that majority of the farmers are aged and will retire from active farming. This is to ensure food security. Effective structure should be put in place for the input and credit facilities provided by the government, this will ensure that these facilities get to those who need it and will in turn help the farmers expand their production. This study, although base in Benue State, may have implications for other States with similar situation. This will help the state meet self-sufficiency in food production and so be able to feed her teeming population.

Effects of Photomixotrophic Conditions on Plants of Eucalyptus Urograndis Propagated in Temporary Immersion Bioreactors

Eucalyptus is one of the crop, which has been investigated with commercial purposes in the world. There are more than 500 species, being the Eucalyptus urograndis one of the most important, because of its intensive use in the production of wood pulp to make papers. The multiplication by means of temporary immersion bioreactors (TIB) is among the present techniques to obtain higher productions of the pulp to satisfy the demands of the market. The effects of the photomixotrophic crop were studies during the elongation of the propagation of shoots in the TIB in order to increase the quality of them. This process consisted of the use of 30 g L-1 combined with two concentration of CO2 (350 and 1200 µmol mol) and two flows of photosynthetic photon flux (PPF= 80 and 250 µmol m-2s-1). The higher percentage of suitable plants were found with the treatment of high PPF (250 µmol m-2 s-1) and 1 200 µmol mol of CO2. The photosynthetic capacity of propagated shoots was of 64% of the adult plants. Also was observed that photomixotrophic conditions reduced the stressed environment that is imposed by the growing in vitro. The catabolic activity in the enzymes of the metabolism of carbon was also reduced, increasing the activity of the Sucrose Phosphate Synthase.

Morphological Markers based Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Cultivated Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicon L.) Genotypes

Supneet Kaur, A. K. Singh, Sreshti Bagati, Mamta Sharma, Satish Sharma

Assessment of genetic diversity in any crop species provides a basis for devising future strategies for crop improvement; conservation and sustainable use. An experiment consisting of 24 genotypes of Tomato was conducted during the year 2016 at the Research Farm and Molecular Biology Laboratory of School of Biotechnology, SKUAST-J, Chatha. The experiment was conducted in Randomised Block Design (RBD) with three replications in 2 rows of 5m length with spacing of 45 x 90 cm. The extent of genetic divergence /relatedness was estimated among 24 genotypes by using 11 traits viz. plant height (cm), number of branches, number of fruits per bunch, total soluble solids, flesh thickness (mm), number of locules, fruit width (cm), fruit length (cm), yield per plant (g), average fruit weight (g), number of fruits per plant. The maximum number of fruits/bunch was recorded in “Utkal Pragyan” (3.66) and the minimum number was recorded in “Swarna Sampada” (2.03). Maximum TSS(%) was recorded in DCT-1 (8.06%) and minimum TSS was recorded in “Dhanshri” (2.83%). Maximum number of fruits and yield/plant was recorded in “DCT-1” (115.33) and “Hisar Lalit” (2507.36g), respectively. The minimum number of fruits and yield/ plant was recorded in “NDT-4” (23.20) and “DCT-1” (861.40g), respectively.Mean data revealed high range for most of studied traits. Hierarchical cluster analysis allowed the assessment of similarity and clarified some of the relationships among tomato genotypes. UPGMA produced a dendrogram with two main clusters with further sub clusters. Of all the studied 24 genotypes Anand tomato and Hisar lalit were found to be most dissimilar based on UPGMA clustering. Hisar lalit was found to be most promising variety among all the genotypes for most of the traits under study, which can be used for further breeding and crop improvement programmes.

Distribution and Speciation of Heavy Metals in Soils around Some Selected Auto Repair Workshops in Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria

B. Anegbe, J.M. Okuo, M. Atenaga, A. Ighodaro, A. Emina., N.A. Oladejo

Soil contamination by heavy metals is a worldwide environmental problem. Hence determining the chemical forms of a metal in soils is important to evaluate its mobility and bioavailability. This study determined the distribution and speciation of some heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd) in soils around some selected auto repair workshops in Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected with the aid of soil Augar within a depth of 0 – 15 cm from the vicinity of the four selected auto repair workshops in Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria. The control samples were taken from a site free from auto repair and commercial activities. The soil samples were assessed for some physico-chemical properties, total heavy metal concentration, chemical speciation, mobility and some metal assessment indices of the heavy metals as a function of soil properties. The mean concentration of Fe, Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd in all the sites analyzed were 550.54, 31.08, 36.15, 4.21 and 1.11 mg/kg respectively. Site B and the control had the highest and lowest total concentration of the five metals analyzed respectively. The levels of Cu were above the DPR target value in sites A and B, while the levels of Cd were above the target value in all the sites except in the control site. All the metals were found to be mostly concentrated in the residual fraction except Zn which was found mostly in the carbonate fraction. The mobility factors revealed that Zn is the most mobile element with an average mobility factor of 41.54% while Cd is the least mobile element with an average mobility factor of 16.51%. Contamination factors, index of geoaccumulation and pollution load index were also calculated. This study showed that mechanic workshop is one of the major sources of anthropogenic heavy metals concentration in the environment.

Antibacterial Susceptibility and Resistance Pattern of Organisms Isolated from Rectal Swab of Chicken

Olateru Comfort T.,Popoola B. M.,Hassan F. A.

Resistance to antibiotics is a serious matter of concern for Public and threats to the successful treatment of miscrobial disease. The prevalence of some enterobacteriaceae such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp resistant to antimicrobial agents is increasing. This study is intended to determine susceptibility and resistance pattern of pathogenic isolates from the rectal swabs of chicken to 8 antibiotics. Hundred (100) rectal swabs of chickens were collected randomly from three different farms; a farm at Montan, Awotan, Apete and Apata all in Ibadan Metropolis of Oyo State. Isolation and identification of organisms were done using standard bacteriological techniques. Antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed following standard protocol. A total of 93 bacterial isolates were obtained from the hundred (100) rectal swaps of chicken. The isolates Escherichia Coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella spp. and their percentage of prevalence are 54, 43 and 3. Antibiotic susceptibility tests carried out on the isolates showed that most of the isolates were resistant to ofloxacin, cloxacillin and Augumentin, while almost all the isolates in this study are sensitive to gentamicin. Erythromycin did not have any effect on any of the bacterial isolates. Bacterial isolates obtained in the study area were multi drug resistant and this suggests that the chickens are important reservoir of antimicrobial resistant organism which is a major public health concern.

Callus Induction and Organogenesis from Pueraria tuberosa (Roxb. ex Willd.) DC

Bindu T. K., Sheema Dharmapal P., P. S. Udayan

Pueraria tuberosa (Roxb. ex Willd.) DC. is a perennial woody climber, commonly known as Indian Kudzu in English, Vidarikand in Hindi and Vidari in Sanskrit. The tubers are used in different systems of medicine viz. Ayurveda, Folk, Homoeopathy, Siddha, Tibetan and Unani. The present study aims to develop an effective protocol for optimum callus induction and organogenesis in Pueraria tuberosa. Callus cultures were first established by inoculating tender leaf explants in Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) medium supplemented with different concentrations of 6-Benzylaminopurine (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 mg.L-1) with 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid (0.5 mg.L-1). Maximum callus induction and shoot organogenesis was observed in MS medium containing 1.5 mg.L-1 BAP with NAA 0.5mg.L-1. Fresh weight of the organogenic greenish granular hard callus was 4.70±0.10 gm. Shoot organogenesis was observed after 65 days of culture. Maximum shoot buds developed from callus on MS media augmented with 1.5 mg.L-1 BAP with 0.5 mg.L-1 NAA.

Economic Analysis of Market Performance of Fresh Fish in Lagos State, Nigeria

Foluso Osundare, Taiwo Adedeji

This study analysed the market performance of fresh fish marketing in Lagos state, Nigeria. It critically focused on ascertaining the market structure, determining the profitability of fish marketing and determining the marketing efficiency of fresh fish marketing in the study area. Multistage sampling procedure was used to sample 80 fresh fish marketers from Lagos state. The data collected for the study were analysed using Gini coefficient, budgetary technique and shepherd efficiency model. The study revealed that there was inequality in the income distribution among the fresh fish marketers with Gini coefficient of 0.78, it further shows that fresh fish marketing is profitable with gross margin of #27,101.36 and that fish marketing activities among fish marketers is highly efficient (517.5%). Thus, government should help in the provision of a soft loan to the marketers so as to promote fresh fish marketing being a profitable and efficient business.

Productivity of Maize Varieties intercropped with Cassava in Lafia and Makurdi Locations, Southern Guinea Savanna, Nigeria

Idoko J.A, Gabriel A., Ugese F. D

Two experiments were conducted from 2015 to 2016 at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi [Latitude 07º 45' - 07º 50' N, Longtitude 08º 45'- 08º 50' E, elevation 98 m] in Benue State and the Research and Teaching Farm of the College of Agriculture, Lafia (Latitude 08.33N and Longitude 08.32E) in Nasarawa State, all located in Southern Guinea Savannah of Nigeria. The experiments sought to determine the performance of maize varieties when intercropped with cassava.The experiment was laid out as split-plot in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The main plot treatment comprised of two cropping systems [sole cropping (maize, cassava) and row intercropping (maize + cassava)] while the sub-plot treatment was 3 maize varieties [Quality Protein Maize (QPM), Suwan 1-1 and the Local]. Each sub plot consisted of 5 ridges spaced 1m apart and 4m long and the net plot was the three middle ridges, 3m long. Intercropping severely depressed plant height at harvest, leaf area index at harvest, cob circumference, cob length, number of rows per cob, number of seeds per row, cob weight, grain yield and 100-ssed weight in Lafi and Makurdi. The highest grain yield of maize was produced when QPM was planted as a sole crop in Lafia (2.95t/ha) and Makurdi (2.99t/ha). However, values obtained from LEC and LER showed intercrop advantage. Similarly, intercropping decreased the growth and yield (plant height at harvest, root circumference, root length, number of marketable roots per plant, number of unmarketable roots per plant and root weight) of cassava in both locations. Intercropping cassava with Local maize produced the highest root weight in Lafia (8.50t/ha) and Makurdi (9.02t/ha) among the treatments intercropped. All LER and LEC values were above 1.0 and 0.25 respectively in both locations. Values obtained for competitive ratio showed that maize was mnore competitive than cassava probably due to its height advantage.

Effect of Variety and SowÄ±ng Density on Some MÄ±croelements Content and Grain Yield of Chickpea (Cicerarietinum L.)

Hasan KILIÃ‡, Mohammed Hussein AZIZ

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of cultivars in different sowing densities on microelementsiron (Fe), nicel (Ni),zinc (Zn)and sodiım (Na) and grain yield of chickpea (Cicerarietinum L). Field experiment was performedin research farm at the University of Bingol(Turkey) in 2016. A complete blocks design in two varieties i.e. Arda and ILC-482 were in main plots, whereas five chickpea seeding density (20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 seed m-2) were in sub plots.The results indicated that seeding densities significantly affected grain yield and Ni content while Fe, Ni and Zn were not affected significantly.Variety ILC-482 produced the maximum grain yield (86,26 kg/da) by 60 seed/m-2 and Arda gave the lowest grain yield (19,80 kg/da) by 30 seed m-2.The highest Ni conten has been obtained from ILC482 variety (6.66 ppm) andthe lowest Ni content has been obtained from Arda variety (6.20 ppm).

Proximate and Mineral Analysis of Coconutrhinoceros Beetle (Oryctesrhinoceros Linnaeus 1758) Larva Meal

Douglas M. Doloriel

Insects are an important resource in an ecosystem needed for crop pollination, nutrient recycling, natural selection and nutrition for other animals. Edible insects such as coconut Rhinoceros Beetle can be utilized as a feed resource. Its larva consumes decomposing organic matter and can be converted into meal form for ease of handling, prolonging shelf-life and elimination of harmful microorganisms. This study aimed to determine the proximate and mineral analysis of coconut Rhinoceros Beetle larva meal. Results revealed that coconut Rhinoceros Beetle larvae are very efficient in converting low nutrient coconut fiber into a nutrient-dense larva meal. Its rate of recovery from fresh larva to meal form is 50%. Coconut RBLM could be incorporated in swine and poultry rations with developmental stage/s that needed low protein and high calcium and phosphorus mineral requirements. It is recommended, however, that future studies involving coconut Rhinoceros Beetle larva should include emptying and cleaning of its gut before processing into meal form.

Status of Blue Duiker (Cephalophus monticola) and Bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) in Kom -Wum Forest Reserve, North West Region, Cameroon

Akwo Christian Ebua, TSI Evaristus Angwafo, Mvo Denis Chuo

The study titled “Status of Blue duiker (Cephalophus monticola) and Bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve, North West Region-Cameroon, was realized from the 15th of January to March 31st, 2015. The general objective was to contribute to the conservation of Blue duiker and Bushbuck by establishing a baseline data in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve which will serve as guide for management decisions. The methodology used was “reconnaissance walk, questionnaires, semi structured interviews and focused group discussions. Results obtained indicated that twelve species of mammals were recorded through direct and indirect bio-indicators. The family of Cercopithecidae was the most represented (41.7%) (Putty nosed (Cercopithecus nictitans), Vervet (Cercopithecus aethiops), Patas (Erythrobus patas), Mona (Cercopithecus mona) monkeys and Olive Baboon (Papio Anubis). The results equally revealed that Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes ellioti), Red duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis), Blue duiker and Bushbuck were the most abundant animals with encounter rates of 3.8, 2.91, 2.41 and 1.93signs per km respectively. The GIS distribution maps showed that Blue duikers and Bushbucks were more in the North East and South West potions of the reserve respectively. The mean encounter rate of anthropogenic activities (hunting, agriculture and logging) stood at 0.94 sign per kilometer. Hunting was most preponderant with an E.R of 1.41 sign per km (50%), followed by agriculture 1.0 sign per km (36%) and lastly logging 0.41 sign per km (14%). Encounter rates of anthropogenic activities plotted against those of mammals gave a coefficient of determination (R2) =0.058 hence, mammal distribution is only slightly affected by human activities. Up to 65% of the respondents expressed negative attitudes towards conservation of resources in the reserve for the fact that it is their natural heritage and they should not be restrained from exploiting them. A majority (80%) of the respondents however agreed that the reserve is owned and controlled by the government. Though plagued by human interference, the reserve still harbours some Bushbuck and Blue duiker. We therefore recommend that the council, government, NGOs and the local community to step up conservation efforts.

An Agent-Based Computer Simulation on Banana Bunchy Top Disease

Ador R. Picaza, Douglas M. Doloriel

Banana Bunchy Top Disease (BBTD) is an aphid-transmitted virus disease of banana plants. Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) is the causal microorganism of this disease. Infected plants rarely produce a fruit bunch after infection and do not fruit in subsequent years. This paper studied the factors that defined the rate of BBTD spread in this 2 X 3 factorial simulation experiment. Results indicate that within four months at the onset of infection, the presence of vector aphids with mild (25%) and severe (75%) infectiousness of BBTD can infect slightly more than half and almost all banana plants in a hectare plantation, respectively.

Geomatic Approach and Geophysical Interpretation of the Hydrogeological Basin of the Hassi Naga Region (Algerian Southwest)

Khelifa Hami, Ibrahim Zeroual, Talhi Abdelkrim, Djelloul Zenati

In this work, we propose a model of Geomatics in the Hassi Naga region, which is located in the Hamada of Tindouf, southwestern Algeria, about 70 km to the northwest of the region. This approach is based on prospecting and thematic analysis of the distribution of Geoelectrical measurements in order to better estimate and manage the Hydrogeology of this region of the Tindouf basin. The results of the geophysical survey allow us to design a complete model that meets the needs of Hydrogeology, whose methodology we have applied consists of decomposing our subject into three classes of entities: Geomatic, geophysical and hydrogeological, discovering the relational links, doing the thematic analysis and ending with results that help to solve the problem of water (Hydrogeology) of the area studied.

Nitrogen Removal in Mangroves Constructed Wetland

Anesi Satoki Mahenge

The potential use of Mangroves Constructed Wetland (MCW) as a low cost, efficient and suitable method for nitrogen removal from sewage in coastal zone of urban cities was examined in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. In-situ examinations were done in horizontal surface flow Mangrove Constructed Wetland situated at Kunduchi beach area in Dar es Salaam. A wetland of 40 meters by 7 meters was constructed to receive domestic sewage from septic tank of Belinda Beach Hotel and was operated in an intermittent continuous flow mode. The wetland employed the already existing mangrove plants known as Avicennia Marina. The plants had an average breast height of 4 meters during commencement of experiments. The wetland collected the mixture of sewage and seawater at strength of 60% to 40%, respectively. The treatment efficiency of the wetland in nitrogen removal from sewage was determined. The observed removal rates of nitrogen inform of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) were 85% and 76%, respectively. Mangrove Constructed Wetland has a potential in nitrogen removal from sewages and it is suggested to be used for sewage treatment in coastal areas.

Influence of soil texture on nature of mangrove vegetation in Sundarbans Tiger Reserve forest of India

Dasgupta M, A. Ghosh, S. Mukherjee, N. Sen Sarkar

Quality of bottom soil forms an important component for any kind of mangrove reforestation as well as coastal rehabilitation program. Since textural composition plays an important role in determining the soil quality, a study was undertaken to assess the influence of variations in soil texture on distribution and abundance of different mangrove species across five zones of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, India.This study showed these mangrove soils to exhibit good occurrences of sand particles. However,the effects of sands on textural quality were frequently masked by moderate occurrence of finer soil particles which rendered the soils to be largely loamy in texture.Such soil conditions favored establishment of mangrove vegetation. Species wise also, mangrove vegetation was found to be more diverse in loam, clay loam, sandy loam and sandy clay loam soil textures respectively while a very few species were observed in clay, sandy clay and silty clay soils.

Performance of In Vitro Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Plantlets Weaned with Locally Sourced Substrates

Mary Oluchi Iwuagwu, Nancy Nkem Nwosu

The performance of in vitro cassava plantlets weaned on different locally sourced substrates was evaluated. Nodal cuttings were excised from healthy six weeks old OG 001cassava variety in the culture room of tissue culture laboratory of National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria. The explants were washed, sterilized and cultured in vitro. The resulting plantlets were weaned on the following substrates - top soil (TS), river sand (RS), saw dust (SD), rice hull waste (RH), 2:1 top soil plus river sand (TS +RS), 2:1 river sand plus saw dust (RS + SD), 2:1 river sand plus rice husk (RS + RH), 2:1 top soil plus saw dust (TP + SD), 2:1 top soil plus rice husk (TP + RH), 2:1 saw dust plus rice husk (SD + RH) and 2:1 peat pellet plus vermiculite (PP + VE), which served as the control. Completely randomized design was used with ten replications. Results showed that plantlets weaned on PP + VE performed better than the other treatments at the end of the weaning period with significantly (P < 0.05) highest survival rate (98%), plant vigour (2.6), number of leaves (5) and number of nodes (8). This was closely followed by RS with survival rate, plant vigour, number of leaves and nodes of 63%, 1.4, 1.7 and 3.5, respectively. Plantlets weaned on the other substrates performed poorly. Although plantlets weaned on peat pellet + vermiculite mixture out-performed the other substrates, river sand if properly handled could be a potential substitute for the conventional substrate in weaning cassava plantlets.

Utilization of Guinea corn (Sorghum vulgare) Husk for Preparation of Bio-based Silica and its Characterization Studies

M.O. Bello, N. Abdus-Salam, F. A. Adekola

Bio-based silica was prepared from Guinea corn Husk within the context of sustainable chemistry. The Guinea corn Husk was leached in dilute HCl, washed, dried and calcined at 650 oC for 4hr. The resultant ash was digested in 2M NaOH solution, precipitated by adding H2SO4 and then washed to remove sulphate by-product. The siliceous materials were characterized using SEM-EDX, FTIR and XRD to investigate its composition and morphology, functional groups and the phase respectively. The elemental investigation revealed Si as major element in the ash. The presence of Si-O-Si (siloxane) and Si-OH (silanol) were confirmed by FTIR of the silica. The SEM micrograph of the silica also showed agglomeration of regular spherical particles in the morphology. The XRD pattern of the siliceous material indicated an amorphous form of the product. Guinea corn Husk as an agricultural waste can be a sustainable means for silica and other siliceous materials.

Comparative evaluation of microbiological and nutritional qualities of various cereal-based paps (Ogi) in Ondo State, Nigeria

Olorunjuwon O. Bello, Temitope K. Bello, Olumayowa T. Amoo, YisauO. Atoyebi

This study was carried out to determine the microbiological, proximate and elemental analyses of maize-, millet- and sorghum-based Ogi in Ondo State, Nigeria. Samples were monitored at points of preparation from 0 to 96 hours of fermentation. Selected dilutions were inoculated by spread-plate method on appropriate medium for isolation of aerobic bacteria, staphylococci, enterobacteria, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and fungi. Further identification was done by API 50 CHL, API 50 CHB and API 32 ID kits for LAB, aerobic bacteria and fungi, respectively. Proximate and mineral compositions were in accordance to standard procedures. One-sample t-test, paired-wise sample t-test and Analysis of Variance were used to analyze data. The microbial load gradually increased from 0 hour and attained optimum at 24 – 48 hours of fermentation, before declining at 72 to 96 hours. LAB were persistent and most predominant. Twenty-four bacterial species were isolated. Occurrence of Lactobacillus plantarum (10.3%) was highest while Mucor mucedo (0.86%) was lowest. There were no significant differences in the microbial loads, proximate and elemental compositions of products.Thisstudy revealed the distribution of fermentative microorganisms and few contaminants which were not directly associated with fermentation process. The study also showed significantly acceptable proximate and elemental compositions of the products.

Effect of climate change and some agrotechnical factors on the yield and nitrogen- and water-use efficiency in winter wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) production

Peter PepÃ³

Winter wheat is a very important cereal crop in Hungary (~25% of Hungarian arable land). In the last decades in conventional wheat production used huge industrial, external inputs to increase the yields which caused a lot of harmful environmental effects. In long-term experiments different ecological (crop year), genetical (variety) and agrotechnical (fertilization, crop rotation) factors were studied on chernozem soil in Eastern Hungary. The fertilizer responses of wheat varieties depended on crop year (6.5-8.9 t ha-1 maximum yields in 2011-2015 years) and the genotypes (in 2012 the difference was ~3 t ha-1 among varieties). The optimum N(+PK) doses varied between 30-150 kg ha-1 in different crop years. In wheat production the fertilization resulted the highest yield surpluses in average crop years (2.8-5.5 t ha-1) comparing with dry ones (2.9-3.7 t ha-1), respectively. The optimum fertilization could improve WUE in wheat production.

Biochemical and transcriptomic evaluation of the toxic effects of aloin contaminated agricultural soils on the earth worm Eisenia andrei.

Fatma Lanouar, Iteb Bougattass, Noureddine Bousserhine, Mohamed Banni

In the present study, we investigated the response of oxidative stress markers and related gene expression in worms exposed to Aloe vera crude exudates (aloin) contaminated agricultural soils for 7 and 14 days. Four sublethal concentrations ranging from 10, 50, 100 and 200 g/kg soils (corresponding to 0.125, 0.625, 1.25 and 2.5 g aloins.Kg-1 soils) were tested. Acetyl cholinesterase activity was evaluated to assess the potential neurotoxic effect of aloin. Lysosomal membrane stability (LMS) was evaluated after the exposure periods in worm’s coelomocytes as indicator of cytotoxicity. Our data indicated a significant increase in the antioxidant enzyme activities termed as catalase (CAT), and glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) and caused a pronounced increase of malonedialdehyde accumulation (MDA). Similarly, LMS was highly affected by aloin particularly at higher concentrations and after 14 days of exposure. Cat and gst, gene expression levels showed a significant increased pattern in animals exposed for 7 and 14 days to the aloin concentrations compared to the control condition. ACHE activity was inhibited in animals exposed to C2, C3 and C4 particularly after 14 days of exposure. Our data provide new insights into the cytotixcity effect of aloe vera crude exudates on the earthworm Eisenia Andrei; one of the principal components of agricultural soil biofertility and sustainability.

Living Fences, a Widespread Agroforestry Practice in Sri Lanka: Two Cases from Dry and Intermediate Zones

H.M.G.S.B. Hitinayake, G.V.U. Priyadarshana, D.M.K. Waidyarathna

The study was conducted to examine the structure and composition of live fence agroforestry practices in two regions of Sri Lanka and to identify key ecosystem system services provided by them. The studies were conducted in the Katupotha in Kurunegala district and Hingurakgoda in Polonnaruwa district. Species composition including dominance, diversity and sinusial formation were evaluated. Highest average relative importance, relative frequency and dominance values were obtained by Wetahira (Gliricidia sepium), Wetaendaru (Jataropha curcus) and Sudu araliya (Plumeria obtusa) at Katupotha and Teak (Tectona grandis), Wetahira (Gliricidia sepium), Ipil-ipil (Leucaena leucocephala), Neem (Azadiracta indica) and Yakadamaran (Syzygium zeylanicum) at Hingurakgoda. The RIV value shows that live fences of Katupotha was dominated by typical (structural) live fence trees (Over 90% dominance) whereas live fences at Hingurakgoda was dominated by high value timber trees (Over 60% dominance). The results indicate that living fences have high species diversity. A total of 72 species were recorded from the living fences in two sites. Live fences at Hingurakgoda were often more diverse than Katupotha although the total number of species recorded at Katupotha site (68) was more than that of Hingurakgoda (25). 21 out of 25 (84%) species recorded at Hingurakgoda were also recorded from Katupotha. Hence species reported at Hingurakgoda is almost a subset of species identified from living fences at Katupotha. The Index of Similarity for two sites (plant communities) was 0.58 as 21 out of 72 (29%) species were found common to both sites. The study clearly shows that live fences in addition to acting as protective structures against theft of homegarden produce, entry of stray animals and encroachments also could make further contributions to the environment and mankind due to high biodiversity. They include provisioning of timber, food, medicine, fruits, vegetables and fodder for livestock regulatory functions such as shade, windbreak and enrichment of soil fertility and cultural services such as visual amenity due to having ornamental plants. Further this study indicates that there is lot of potential for further enriching these live fences to better perform ecosystem services. Since live fences are a common farming practice spanning all agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka, they could serve as a place for conservation of species and tool for identification and evaluation of species for different regions and purposes.

Effects of Housing Modifications on the Management of Pigs and Growth Performance

Akinlabi E.Y, Olusegun O.B, Owolabi O.T., Idowu A.O.

Pig industry in Nigeria is an important arm of the livestock sub-sector in the overall agricultural sector. The comfort of Pigs is determined by effective environmental temperature. It combines the effect of air temperature, flooring, and bedding. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of different intensive housing systems on the feed consumption level, weight gain and welfare of pigs fed with the same feed (diet) under different housing systems for 8 weeks. Nine Pigs were purchased from a reputable commercial farm and were divided into 3 treatment groups, T1, T2 and T3. T1 is a well built pen with cemented wall and floor. T2 is a pen built with bamboo wall, and cemented floor. T3 is built with bamboo wall without cemented floor – bare loamy soil. The Pigs were raised for eight weeks. The feed given and weight gained for eight weeks were recorded and analysed using ANOVA. Considering the consumption levels of all treatments, T2 had the lowest feed intake compared to other treatments. T2 had the highest weight gain while T3had the lowest. It is hereby concluded that T3 presented the best result as regards feed consumption, cost of construction and ease of management. Although it presented the lowest weight gain which is attributable to the initial weight and tipping of the feed trough (feed wastage). However, feed wastage can be minimized by using firmer feed trough.