Proximate Research Articles

Variations in nutrients composition of most commonly consumed yam (Discorea spp) mixed dish in south-east Nigeria

Background: Yam is one of the most priced and cherished root crops in South-east Nigeria being consumed on a daily basis by a good percentage of the population.Objective: In this study, variations in nutrient composition of the most commonly consumed mixed yam dish in South-east Nigeria were determined. Methods: Four communities were randomly selected from each of the five states in the South-east of Nigeria. Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted in each of the communities to determine commonly consumed yam dish and variations in recipes. A 24-hour dietary recall was also conducted using 50 randomly selected households in the selected communities. Recipes of four variations of the yam dish (variation one, variation two, variation three and variation four) collected during the FGD were standardized, prepared and chemically analysed using standard methods. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Commonly consumed yam dishes included yam and beans, yam and vegetable, oto (grated yam balls pottage), ji miri oku (yam boiled and served in spiced watery sauce) and yam pottage. Yam pottage was the most commonly consumed yam dish in South-east Nigeria. Four variations of yam pottage were documented with coefficient of variation that ranged from 10.5 to 55.6%. Sources of variation were mainly due to moisture content and number of animal protein sources used. Yam pottage prepared with crayfish and vegetable (variation 2) had the highest moisture content (80.6%) and the least energy and other proximate composition while variation 4 that was prepared with vegetable, crayfish and dry fish had the highest energy and nutrient content except for carbohydrate that was highest in variation 3 [yam pottage prepared with crayfish and without vegetable]. Yam pottage had appreciable (74- 139Kcal) energy and carbohydrate (15.3-29%) values depending on the variation but were particularly low in protein (1.8- 3.5), dietary fibre (0.27-1.04g), iron (0.35-0.76mg), zinc (0.04-0.08 mg) and vitamin A (1.36-8.31mg). Conclusion: In South-east Nigeria, yam pottage was prepared with varied quantity, number and type of ingredients which reflected in the nutrient composition of the four documented variations of the dish. The fourth variation with the highest number of ingredients was the most nutrients dense. Key words: Nutrient composition, yam pottage, variations, Nigeria.

Observations on the intraspecific variation in tadpole morphology in natural ponds

Intraspecific morphological variation of anuran tadpoles occurs in response to several factors. Causes and consequences of this variation have been largely studied hitherto in controlled environments, but data from natural habitats is clearly less abundant. Here, we present a series of observations on the morphology – mainly tail depth – of three tadpole species from NE Iberian Peninsula across different pond typologies. According to experimental data on tadpole morphology and selective pressures along the pond permanency gradient, we should expect that tadpoles inhabiting ponds with a short hydroperiod – mainly facing desiccation risk – have shallower tail fins than tadpoles from ponds with longer hydroperiod – mainly facing predation risk. Thus, we expected that the link between these complementary selective pressures – predation risk, desiccation risk – and hydroperiod could make possible to detect intraspecific variation in tadpole morphology among different typologies of natural ponds. Morphological differences were found in all studied species, and variation, when present, agreed with theory: tadpoles had deeper fin tails as they were collected in ponds with a longer hydroperiod. Interestingly, in most cases these morphological differences were more marked as tadpoles were larger in size. Although distances among the studied ponds were generally short – posing phenotypic plasticity as the most plausible proximate mechanism – specifically designed studies would be needed to disentangle the relative role of other processes like local adaptation.

Nutritional Composition of Selected Shellfish Consumed in Rivers State, Nigeria

The objective of this work was to determine the proximate composition, micro nutrient, and total volatile nitrogen content of selected shellfish (oyster, clam, periwinkle, and whelk) consumed in Rivers State, Nigeria. The moisture content of the samples ranged from 73.37% for oyster to 84.80% for periwinkle (rough). Ash content was 6.85% for periwinkle (smooth) to 14.02% for whelk. Fat content was 0.55% for periwinkle (rough) to 1.75% for whelk. Crude protein content ranged from 9.97% to 13.96%, while consumption of 100g of any of these would provide 17-24% of the RDA. Carbohydrate values ranged between 0.26% and 0.93%. The results for minerals were as follows: calcium 52.53mg/100g, 46.27mg/100g, 103.70mg/100g, 5.37mg/100g, and 493.31mg/100g for oysters, clam, periwinkle (rough and smooth) and whelk, respectively. Magnesium content ranged from 55.73mg/100g for oysters to 1113.5mg/100g for whelk, potassium content ranged from 54.86mg/100g to 288.54mg/100g. Values for sodium were between 96.64mg/100g and 403.75mg/100g, phosphorus was from 90.70mg/100g to 286.22mg/100g. The values for iron ranged between 6.68mg/100g for whelk and 25.71mg/100g for clam, zinc was 10.42mg/100g to 96.55mg/100g, and iodine 2.9mg/100g to 11.35mg/100g. This study showed that molluscs are good sources of protein and minerals and increased consumption of these foods will help in alleviating the evasive problem of protein and micronutrients deficiencies.

A novel method using vital signs information for assistance in making a discharge decision from the intensive care unit: identification of those patients at highest risk of mortality on the floor or discharge to a hospice

ABSTRACT Intensivists face a difficult decision deciding when a patient should be discharged from the intensive care unit (ICU) to a unit of lesser acuity. Accurate algorithms don’t exist to aid in that decision. Therefore, we developed and validated a stratification tool using physiologic data obtained from a patient’s electronic medical record for assignment to risk categories of mortality or hospital discharge to hospice. Population: 33,039 admissions at 41 adult ICUs using an electronic medical record from 1/1/2012-6/30/2017. Outcome: Mortality on a unit of lesser acuity or discharge to a hospice after leaving the ICU (“mortality/hospice”). Methods: Vital signs from three hours to one hour before actual discharge were obtained. We used the 12 most proximate values for heart rate, respiratory rate, and mean arterial pressure, respectively. A letter was assigned to the median of every three measurements based on the underlying distribution of the vital sign. Four consecutive letters were concatenated to form a pattern, which were candidates for triggers (i.e. risk alerts). A patient could have three triggers, one for whether or not each vital sign contained a word that increased risk, along with a fourth trigger if a patient received mechanical ventilation. Using a genetic algorithm that weighted the outcome of mortality/hospice, we acquired a set of patterns that maximally increased risk. Those patterns were then validated as triggers for increased risk. Results: The overall mortality/hospice rate was 4.7%. Fifteen patterns were identified that increased risk. Patients without triggers had a mortality/hospice rate of 3.2%, while patients with one, two, and three to four triggers had rates of 7.5%, 13.3%, and 27.5%, respectively, Conclusion: It’s possible to use vital signs proximate to when a discharge decision is made to identify patients with an increased risk of either mortality or discharge to hospice after leaving the ICU.

Proximate, Phytochemical, and In Vitro Antimicrobial Properties of Dried Leaves from Ocimum gratissimum.

Ocimum gratissimum is a common plant in the tropics and has been used in food and medicine. Its usage in food and medicine could be attributed to its phtyochemical and antimicrobial properties. In this study we investigated the proximate, phytochemical, and antimicrobial attributes of air dried leaves of O. gratissimum. The aqueous extract was found to contain phtyochemicals with alkaloid and saponin present in appreciable amounts. The proximate analysis (crude protein and crude fibre content were 15.075% and 17.365%, respectively) showed that the leaf could be a good source of protein and fibre. The aqueous ethanolic extract of the leaf exhibited activity against a wider range of organisms when compared to the aqueous extract at the investigated concentrations. Aqueous ethanolic extracts of O. gratissimum leaf was active against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus and the aqueous extract of the leaf was active against P. aeruginosa.

Comparative Study of Condiment Vegetable Basil Leaf ( Ocimum gratissimum) and Bitter Leaf ( Vernonia Amygdalina)

A condiment vegetable is a spice, sauce, or preparation that is added to food to impart a particular flavor or to enhance its flavour, pickled or preserved foods and to complement dishes. Basil leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and Bitter Leaf (Vernonia Amygdalina) and are classified as a condiment vegetable. The objective of this study is to compare bitter leaf (vernonia amygdalina) and basil leaf (ocimum gratissimum) condiment vegetable. Chemical composition, phytochemical, mineral composition, energy value and functional properties of bitter leaf (Vernonia Amygdalina) and basil leaf (Ocimum gratissimum were determined according to AOAC 2010 method. The results revealed that Basil leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and Bitter Leaf (Vernonia Amygdalina) phytochemical are below minimal acceptable level, proximate composition composed of protein% 14.48, 44.86 moisture% 5.88, 5.66 fat% 6.34, 6.56 ash% 4.54, 4.38 fibre% 5.44, 6.88 CHO% 63.32,31.66 dry matter %94.12,94.34 content, mineral composition Cu mg/100g, 0.770, 590, Mn mg/100g 4.62, 36.6, Zn mg/100g, 5.23, 8.09, Mg mg/100g,413,323, Fe mg/100g,23.4, 18.03, Ca mg/100g, 4523,4005. K mg/100g, 5425, 975, and Na mg/100g49.8, 21respectively Energy value had 1557.18, 2309.56 EnergykJ/100g respectively. In conclusion basil leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and bitter leaf (Vernonia Amygdalina) is flavour enhance condiment vegetable. When added to dish, it complements the dish. has medicinal value, home available, has health benefits, chemical composition meet daily nutrient requirement intake and mineral content is adequate to complement human diet and phytochemical present are below the minimal and acceptable level.

Wild Mushrooms: A Potential Source of Nutritional and Antioxidant Attributes with Acceptable Toxicity.

This paper describes in detail proximate composition, nutritional profile, phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activities, antimicrobial potential, and antihemolytic activity (towards human erythrocytes) of various fractions of wild Ganoderma lucidum. Proximate analysis established that wild G. lucidum comprises about 87.02±5.45% of moisture, and the remaining part is a rich source of proteins (8.59±0.37%), crude fiber (54.21±1.2%), and carbohydrate (35.16%) with smaller fat content (3.33 %). Similarly, phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids (217.51±0.30 mg/g), ascorbic acid (116±7.32 mg/g), phenolics (360.72±34.07 mg/g), β-carotenes (0.42±0.04 μg/g), and lycopene (0.05±0.00 μg/g). Extracts of wild G. lucidum in various solvents provided first line protection against Escherichia coli and Pasteurella multocida in the order of ethyl acetate> ethanol> methanol> n-hexane> water. Furthermore, aqueous and methanolic extracts of wild G. lucidum were found to be safe towards human erythrocytes. Overall, wild mushroom (G. lucidum) was found to be a good source of dietary supplements, antimicrobial and antioxidant agents in the pursuance of its commercial utilization in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Prisoners of the Proximate: Loosening the Constraints on Epidemiology in an Age of Change.

Prisoners of the Proximate: Loosening the Constraints on Epidemiology in an Age of Change.

Enrichment of traditional maize snack (Kokoro) with moringa (Moringa oliefera) leaf and soybean

Kokoro, a local maize snack was made from white maize (W) flour and supplemented with Moringa oliefera leaf (M) and defatted soybean (S). WMS0 (100:0:0%), WMS1 (90:10:0%), WMS2 (90:0:10%), WMS3 (90:5:5%), WMS4 (90:7.5:2.5%), and WMS5 (90:2.5:7.5%) were carried out in triplicates. Kokoro was produced by deep frying in hot refined vegetable oil. The proximate composition, vitamin content and phytochemicals composition were determined. Kokoro formulated with 90% maize flour and 10% deffated soybean (WMS2) had the highest moisture, crude protein, fat, oxalate, phytic acid and alkaloid, while Kokoro formulated with 90% maize flour and 10% moringa (WMS1) had the highest crude fibre, vitamin A, B3 (niacin), C and flavonoid. On the other hand, Kokoro formulated with only 100% maize flour (WMS0) had the least phytochemical composition and vitamins A, B3, C contents. Although, the addition of soybean had the highest positive effect on the protein and crude fibre contents of Kokoro, it was the addition of moringa that had the highest positive effect on the vitamins contents. On the other hand, moringa also raised the phytochemical contents significantly (p≤0.05). Overall, sample WMS4 (90% Maize + 7.5% Moringa + 2.5% Soybean) had substantial proximate and minerals composition in addition to having the least phytochemical could be considered the best formulation for Kokoro formulation. Key words: Moringa, phytochemicals, proximate composition, soybean, Kokoro.

Development and Quality Evaluation of Carrot Powder and Cowpea Flour Enriched Biscuits

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and Carrot (Daucus carota L) were processed into flour and powder respectively and were used to substitute wheat flour as composite flour in the production of biscuits. Biscuits were prepared from different blends of refined wheat flour, cowpea flour and carrot powder in the respective ratios of 100:0:0, 90:5:5, 85:10:5 and 80:10:10 and 75:15:10. The biscuits were analyzed for their physical properties, proximate and carotenoids composition and sensory properties. Results revealed a significant differences (p 0.05) with increasing levels of cowpea flour. It ranged from 9.27- 10.06% with the control sample (A) having the lowest value, while the sample (E) with 15% cowpea flour inclusion having the highest value (10.05%). Significant differences (p > 0.05) existed in the crude fibre content of the enriched and control biscuit samples. The fat content of biscuits varied significantly p 0.05) was observed in the carotenoids content of the biscuit samples as the level of carrot powder inclusion increased. It ranged from 1.54- 7.5 mg/kg with the highest value found with the 10% carrot powder inclusion while the lowest value was found in the control sample. The mean sensory scores revealed that there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in all the sensory attributes evaluated. The study showed that value added biscuits can be produced using carrot powder and cowpea flour to enrich biscuits that is capable of increasing the protein and carotenoids contents which can help in ameliorating protein malnutrition and vitamin A deficiency.

PHOENIX DACTYLIFERA FRUIT: A NUTRACEUTICAL AGENT IN THE TREATMENT OF DIARRHEA

ABSTRACT The growing need for safe and accessible drugs for various ailments in the third world countries have drawn scientific minds to evaluating scientific bases of the use of some plant materials in traditional medicines. Food substances are chief among these plant materials owing to their safety and nutritional benefits aside the purported medicinal claims. The main objectives of this study were to determine the proximate nutritional composition and the antidiarrheal activity of aqueous fruit extract of Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm). Methods: Antidiarrheal activity of the Phoenix dactylifera aqueous fruit extract was evaluated on castor oil induced diarrhea in male wistar rats using Loperamide (standard drug) as control. The proximate nutritional composition of the fruit was determined standard laboratory methods and the antinutritional factors in the fruit were determined using standard Spectrophotometric method. Result: The result of the nutritional analysis revealed that the date fruit contain high carbohydrate content and relatively high crude ash content and low antinutrients concentration. Phytochemical screening of the aqueous fruit extract revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, glycosides, flavonoids and alkaloids. The acute toxicity test showed that the extract is practically non toxic. The antidiarrheal activity of the aqueous fruit extract was found significant (P < 0.05) at 1000mg/Kg and 2000mg/Kg body weight. Conclusion : The result of this research showed that Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) fruit can be used as an effective nutraceutical in the management and treatment of diarrhea especially in the third world countries. Key word : Phoenix dactylifera, Diarrhea, Loperamide, Antidiarrheal activity

Determining the Physicochemical Compositions of Recently Improved and Released Sorghum Varieties of Ethiopia

Sorghum is an important cereal crop used as human a staple food grain in many semi-arid and tro pical areas of the world, notably is Sub-Saharan Africa and Asian continents by approximately 500 million people due to its good agronomic properties in harsh environment. It is known that sorghum is a gluten-free cereal used as ground flour and it is a source of energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, and as antioxidant phenolics and cholesterol- lowering waxes. The Physicochemical characteristics of sorghum flour were determined for ten recently improved and released sorghum varieties cultivated in Ethiopia were analyzed for proximate composition. Results revealed that proximate composion i.e. moisture, 1000- kernel weight, crude protein, crude fat, ash, crude fiber and total carbohydrates of sorghum varieties differed significantly (P<0.01) and the results of the crude protein ranged from 9.333-16.030%, crude fat 2.602 to 4.627%, crude fiber 4.850-8.963%, ash 1.241-1.883, moisture content 6.767-12.839, 1000 kernel seed weight 22.263-42.626, and total carbohydrate 66.834 to 78.744%. This study showed that the physicochemical composition of the 10 selected sorghum varieties of Ethiopia was significantly different from one variety to another variety and different varieties are different in physicochemical profile.

Physicochemical Property Changes and Volatile Analysis for Torrefaction of Oil Palm Frond

Torrefaction is an upgrading technique for biomass properties which involves the heating of biomass to moderate temperatures typically between 200 and 300 °C in an inert condition. Torrefied biomass has darker colour, high energy density, high heating value and exhibits hydrophobic characteristic that makes it easier for grinding. Therefore, the aim of this work is to conduct an experimental work in order to study the torrefaction effects on the physicochemical properties of oil palm frond (OPF) as well as to identify the evolution of volatiles composition during the torrefaction. Torrefaction experiments were performed at four different temperatures (240 – 330 °C) and three different residence times (15, 30 and 60 min). The higher heating value of raw and torrefied biomass were measured to establish a relationship between energy loss and mass loss during torrefaction. Scanning electron microscope (for physical analysis) was used to study the structure of raw and torrefied OPF. Elemental analysis was carried out by using Carbon, Hydrogen. Nitrogen and Sulphur (CHNS) analyser and the proximate analysis were measured based on the method specified by American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Condensable and non-condensable gases were analysed by using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography thermal conductivity detection (GC-TCD) respectively. Higher torrefaction temperature and longer residence time leads to severe decomposition which reduces the mass yield of the torrefied oil palm frond but increases the heating value of torrefied OPF. The carbon content increases with the increasing of temperature and residence time, while hydrogen and oxygen contents are decreases. The values of fixed carbon and ash content increases, while volatile matter value decreases when the oil palm frond is torrefied for a longer time at high temperature. For volatile release, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide are the major compounds presence in non-condensable gas and traces of methane was only identified when OPF was torrefied at 300 °C and 330 °C. Acetic acid and methanol are the major compounds of condensable gases with the presence of formic acid and lactic acid at 330 °C. It can be concluded that high temperature gives significant effect on the chemical reaction for formation of condensable and non-condensable gases.

Efficacy Studies of Natural and Synthetic Iron Sources among Anemic Pregnant Women in Community of Faisalabad-Pakistan

In present study, different treatments enriched with natural and synthetic Iron sources along with control were developed and evaluated for proximate composition, mineral content, calorific values and sensory attributes fortnightly for sixty days and their efficacy was tested among anemic pregnant women for ninety days. Blood of 787 pregnant women was investigated for Hb status. Among them 38.50 % were found anemic (Hb < 11 g/dL) whose blood was further analyzed for complete blood count (CBC), serum Ferritin, serum Fe, total Fe binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin saturation (TS) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) to find IDA victims. Hence, 70.29 % pregnant females were identified as IDA sufferer. Finally, 200 volunteers were assorted randomly into 4 treatment groups. As regards product development, all treatments provided 50 % RDA (13.5 mg) of Fe except placebo (T0). The significant variations (P-value <0.05) in anthropometrics, energetics and dietary intakes were observed during the study. Hematological indices were improved significantly by T2 in 90 days as RBC count (4.60±0.027 M/uL), Hb (11.01±0.039 g/dL), Hct (33.57±0.091 %), MCV (75.00±0.117 fL), MCH (24.96±0.089 pg), MCHC (30.10±0.101 g/dL), Serum Fe (47.72±0.219 ug/dL), TIBC (373.42±1.154 ug/dL) and TS (10.20±0.093 %). However, serum Ferritin had maximum uplift (8.28±0.234 ng/mL) by T1. Liver function tests (LFTs) and renal function tests (RFTs) of volunteers showed safety of intervention. A significant positive correlation (P-value <0.05) was also found amongst indices of IDA. The outcomes of the current research work showed that natural iron sources like blackstrap molasses, dried apricots, dried dates and rape seeds are cost effective and healthful foods having high bio-available Fe as compared to synthetic Iron sources (Ferrous sulphate) in combating IDA among pregnant women.

Pengaruh Jenis Asam dan Lama Marinasi Terhadap Karakteristik Sensoris, Mikrobiologis, dan Kimia Naniura Ikan Nila (Oreochromis Niloticus)

The purpose of this research was to investigate the sensory, microbiological and chemical characteristics of naniura tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) with different types of acid and marinade time. The research was conducted on May until October 2015. This research used a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) two factors, the type of acid factor (Jungga citrus, lime, and citric acid) and marinade time factor (3 hours and 5 hours). Each treatments was replicated three times. The attributes observed were sensory test, pH, water content, and microbiological/TPC. Proximate and amino acid analysis will be done for all 3 hours marinade treatment. The results of organoleptic test showed that treatment of acid type and marinade time did not significantly affect the appearance and meat consisten but significantly affect on taste and aroma. The results of analysis TPC Jungga citrus treatment with lime showed the same value. While the value of TPC citric acid was higher but still safe for consumption. The results of proximate analysis for the three types of acid showed that Jungga citrus is the best nutrient content that the water content 63.25%, ash content 3.46%; 7.40% fat content, protein content 25.90% and carbohydrate 0.98 %. Analysis of the amino acid profile in naniura produced 17 amino acids, 9 essential amino acids and 8 non-essential amino acids

Effects of Cooking Methods on Proximate and Metal Contents of Some Common Fish Species

Cooking methods influence nutritive values of food. Proximate and metal contents of roasted and deep-fried Scomber scombrus (Titus), Clarias gariepinus (Cat fish) and Sardinops pilchardus (Sardine) were determined using standard methods. Protein contents of the fried fish were lower compared to the roasted fish. Scomber scombrus had the highest fat content (22.51%) and the least level (17.75%) in Clarias gariepinus, irrespective of the type of cooking method used. The highest (740.65 mg/Kg) and the lowest (6.11 mg/Kg) levels of calcium were both recorded in roasted Clarias gariepinus. Mineral elements varied in the order of Ca > Mg > Fe > Zn > Cu > Mn for the processed fish. The impacts of the different cooking methods on proximate and mineral contents of the fish were significantly different (P ≤ 0.05), except for carbohydrate, copper and manganese. Roasting method provided the best results when both nutrients and preservation are the priorities.

Formulation and evaluation of complementary food based on bambara nut (Voandze subterranean) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan)

Introduction: Complementary foods for under-five children are usually produced by nursing mothers/care-givers using only cereals, with little or no nutrient enhancement by protein- rich staple foods, whereas there are locally grown and available and protein-rich legumes that can improve both nutrient composition and sensory characteristics of the cereal-based complementary foods.Objectives: The study formulated and evaluated complementary food made from composites of maize, bambara nut and pigeon pea.Materials and Methods: Yellow maize grains, bambara nut and pigeon pea were purchased from Ekeukwu, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Five hundred grams (500g) of each of the grains were sorted, weighed, and cleaned. Maize was soaked for 48hrs, drained, wet-milled, sieved and oven dried at 60oC for 8hrs; it was re-milled and sieved (120 mesh size) to produce a fine flour. Bambara nut was toasted, cracked, winnowed, milled and sieved into fine flour. Pigeon pea was washed in clean water, and air-dried for 8hrs, dehulled and milled into fine flour. The fermented maize, bambara and pigeon pea flours were used to formulate complementary foods in the following proportions - maize : bambara nut, were combined in ratios of 80:20 (MBA), 70:30 (MBB), 60:40 (MBC), while maize : A B C pigeon pea were combined in ratios of 80:20 (MPA), 70:30 (MPB), 60:40 (MPC), 100% maize (MC) A B C served as control. Proximate composition of the complementary foods was determined while sensory evaluation was done to determine their organoleptic quality and acceptability.Results: There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in protein, fat, crude fibre, ash and carbohydrate when compared with the control (Mc). Similarly, a significant difference (P<0.05) existed in the sensory attributes among the samples. Formulated complementary food samples containing bambara groundnut showed better results in terms of nutrient improvement and overall acceptability than pigeon pea samples.Conclusion: The best (overall) sample was MBc (60:40). Hence, it was recommended that bambara nut should be used rather than pigeon pea when fortifying complementary food made with maize, to improve nutritional health of under-five children.Keywords: Maize, complementary food, bambara-nut, pigeon-pea

Comparative Growth Performance of Clarias gariepinus Fingerlings Feedwith Coppens and Dizengoff Feed

Growth performance of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus dizengoff feed was carried out as a comparative study with Coppens commercial feed for 28 days in plastic tanks. Two group of 50 finger lings with a mean weight of 1.68 ± 0.4 and 1.64 ± 0.3 g were stocked in two circular plastic tanks, of 30 l capacity labelled D1, and D2. Fish in unit D1 were fed Coppens feed while fish in tank D2 were fed dizengoff feed twice daily at 3% of their body weights. Growth performance indices showed that weight gain (g), growth rate (GR), specific growth rate (SGR) and mean growth rate (MGR) of C. gariepinus fed dizengoff feed was not significantly different (P>0.05) from fish fed Coppens feed. Protein efficiency ratio(PER) for Coppens was 1.60 ± 0.02 and that of dizengoff was 1.40 ± 0.01. Food utilisation indices showed that fish fed dizengoff feed consumed significantly (P 0.05). Proximate analysis of the dry matter of the two experimental feeds showed that moisture content, fat content, crude fibre content, ash content, carbohydrate and Caloric value (C/V) were significantly different (P 0.05). The cost analysis also shows that dizengoff feed is less cost than coppens feed. Physicochemical parameters including water temperature (°C), pH, dissolved oxygen (mg/L) and ammonia (mg/L) were controlled within the acceptable range for fresh water fish culture. Based on these findings, it was concluded that dizengoff has competed favourably with Coppens feed in growth performance and food utilisation of C. gariepinus. Dizengoff feed is recommended on the basis of list cost and affordability as a substitute for Coppens commercial feed for C. gariepinus production.

Proximate Composition and Quality Characteristics of White Bread with Lentinus edodes Powder

Proximate Composition and Quality Characteristics of White Bread with Lentinus edodes Powder

Breeding and Movements of the Straw-necked Ibis in Australia

Data on distribution and movements were obtained from the literature, an Australia-wide questionnaire and regular censuses at fifteen locations in eastern Australia from May 1969 to December 1972. Fifty-four breeding swamps were recorded, most in south-eastern Australia, Northern Territory and south-western Western Australia. Populations using these breeding areas may be largely discrete. Differences in time and regularity of breeding are probably caused by rainfall. Seasonal movements occurred between breeding areas and eastern coastal refuges in each year, but later and in smaller numbers in years of good rainfall inland than in poor ones. North-eastern Queensland seems to be an important refuge for Ibis breeding in northern Australia and south-eastern Queensland for those from south-eastern Australia, with relatively few sightings in intervening central coastal Queensland. Juveniles appear to disperse earlier and more widely than adults. Local rainfall may stimulate Ibis to depart from refuges, most departures probably being pre-nuptial; rain also probably stimulates breeding. Though flooding is enough to do this at many swynps, at two in South Australia, not affected bv floods, increase in temperature is probably the proximate stimulus.