Blinding canine eye disease.

Blinding canine eye disease.Discovery for a blinding canine eye disease reveals an unprecedented mode of inheritance.A new gene for canine congenital eye disease has been identified. Defective RBP4 leads to vitamin A deficiency and abnormal eye development during pregnancy. The study defines a novel recessive mode of maternal inheritance, which may underlie other types of birth defects. Collaborating research groups from the University of Helsinki, UC Davis and the University of Jyväskylä describe a new genetic cause for canine congenital eye disease in Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers. The affected dogs suffer from bilateral microphthalmia i.e. very small eyes and anatomical defects, resulting in incurable blindness. Similar findings are seen in the Microphthalmia-Anophthalmia-Coloboma (MAC) spectrum of human congenital eye malformations, which are important causes of childhood blindness. RBP4 defect leads to vitamin A deficiency -- a known risk factor for eye diseases. The study demonstrates a novel recessive mode of genetic inheritance, which has not described before. The researchers discovered that the dam's genotype determines the puppy's disease risk as both the dam and puppy must be homozygous for the mutation to manifest the disease.As a part of the research, a DNA test has been developed for veterinary diagnosis and breeding purposes. DNA testing is important for breeders to avoid producing more blind dogs. The test can identify carriers and allow better breeding plans.

Dogs can be a potential risk for future influenza pandemic.

Dogs can be a potential risk for future influenza pandemic.Dogs are a potential reservoir for a future influenza pandemic, according to a study published in the journal mBio. The study demonstrated that influenza virus can jump from pigs into canines and that influenza is becoming increasingly diverse in canines. Influenza can jump among animal reservoirs where many different strains are located; these reservoirs serve as mixing bowls for the genetic diversity of strains. Pandemic influenza occurs when viruses jump from animal reservoirs to humans; with no prior exposure to the virus, most people do not have immunity to these viruses. The main animal hosts for influenza are wild birds, poultry and other domestic birds in a species pack; swine; and horses. Some of the viral genes from the 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus originated in birds, from an avian virus that jumped to pigs, exchanged some of its genes with previously circulating swine viruses and then jumped from pigs into humans. Birds and swine are major reservoirs of viral genetic diversity, whereas equines and canines have historically been restricted to one or two stable influenza A viruses lineages with no or very limited transmission to humans.

RESEARCH : Cattle, sheep and goats may transmit leptospirosis to humans in Tanzania.

RESEARCH : Cattle, sheep and goats may transmit leptospirosis to humans in Tanzania. Cattle, sheep and goats may transmit leptospirosis to humans in Tanzania. Leptospirosis, which affects more than one million people worldwide each year, is known to be transmitted to humans from a wide range of animals. Now, researchers reporting in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases have discovered that more than 7 percent of the cattle and 1 percent of sheep and goats in local slaughterhouses in northern Tanzania are infected with Leptospira bacteria. RESEARCH : Cattle, sheep and goats may transmit leptospirosis to humans in Tanzania. Leptospirosis is a disease caused by infection with bacteria of the genus Leptospira. In humans, the disease can range in severity from mild to severe disease leading to kidney damage, liver failure, or death. The disease is most common in tropical environments, but occurs worldwide, particularly in people who work outdoors or with animals. Acute leptospirosis is an important cause of febrile disease in Tanzania, where little is known about the most common sources of infection in humans. In the new work conducted in northern Tanzania, Kathryn Allan, of the University of Glasgow, UK, and colleagues tested rodents, cattle, goats and sheep for Leptospira infection.

VETERINARY MEDICINE : WSAVA AND THE ONE CARE INITIATIVE.

VETERINARY MEDICINE : WSAVA AND THE ONE CARE INITIATIVE. WSAVA is World Small Animal Veterinary Association, with the primary purpose to advance the quality and availability of small animal medicine and surgery thus creating a unified standard of care for the benefit of animals and humankind. VETERINARY MEDICINE : WSAVA AND THE ONE CARE INITIATIVE. WSAVA is a "Global Veterinary Community” creates a platform where veterinarians can help each other and to generate a “One global voice” from the veterinary profession to contribute to the world,the one care initiative. WSAVA represents more than 200,000 veterinarians worldwide through 105 member associations with a representation in Nigeria as well. The Nigerian arm in conjunction with the WSAVA recently held a conference in Lagos with the theme "CONSOLIDATING YOUR PRACTICE SUCCESS" which featured series of lectures and wet lab. The WSAVA Vice President / Asia Siraya Chunekamrai was present to introduce the one care initiative.

Agribusiness : opportunities in cassava processing in Nigeria.( Echbee Foods)

Agribusiness : opportunities in cassava processing in Nigeria. An indigenous company, Echbee Foods in Lagos has opportunities in the cassava value chain. The vision of the company is to expose the possibilities in the chain thus providing employment .

The mission of echbee foods {the company} is to promote cassava as a new source of nutritious wholesome meals for the family.#agribusiness #cassava The company uses garri to make highly nutritious snacks,food and also packages garri with milk/sugar and groundnut. 

The company seeks young vibrant vendors to market the products, the aim of the company is to help boost cassava production by exploring new feeding preferences and thus support women and children. #cassava #opportunities 

 The company products are flakes, the company is looking for marketers and distributors /sales representatives nation wide. #Agribusiness : opportunities in cassava processing in Nigeria.

 Interested send CV to hbfoods883@gmail.com #opportunities #cassava #Nigeria #Rwanda #Kenya #Tanzania

Cassava : tapioca treatment for cancer.

Cassava :Tapioca treatment for #cancer.Tapioca pudding - widely known as frog's eggs by many school pupils - may after all be good for you. Scientists say the plant from which it is derived may help cure #cancer. Tapioca is derived from the cassava plant amongst other products such as garri, cassava flour e.t.c. Cassava is one of many plants which manufactures cyanide to deter animals who might want to eat it. This means that all products from the root tuber can deter cancer. Cassava : tapioca treatment for cancer. Cassava called Manihot esculenta, is extensively cultivated as an annual crop in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible starchy tuberous root, a major source of carbohydrates. Cassava is the third-largest source of food carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize. Cassava is a major staple food in the developing world, providing a basic diet for over half a billion people. Cassava is one of the most drought-tolerant crops, capable of growing on marginal soils and Nigeria is the world's largest producer of cassava, while Thailand is the largest exporter of dried cassava. Cassava can be processed into various products such as garri,tapioca, cake,bread and flakes which when fortified can provide a balanced meal for adults and children. Cassava is gluten free with high fiber content has found value as food and medicine for man and animals. Cassava derivatives such as tapioca, garri and flour can be used to make nutritious and healthy meals for school feeding programme. Garri can be used to make nutritious snacks,cereals and healthy meals for the kids. Vitamin A fortified cassava is an added advantage thus providing affordable, wholesome and balanced meals. Cassava : tapioca treatment for cancer.

Cassava Root: cassava enzymes can kill cancer cells.

#Cassava Root: Beats cancer instead of Chemo and Radiation! Plus it doesn't kill you! #Cassava root has Vitamin B-17 which cures cancer and boosts energy. 

Cyanide in plants help protect it from insect attack, this protective mechanism is now helping to kill cancer cells in humans. Cassava is one of such plants and this is how it kills cancer cell.

The method of using the cassava root is to  remove 3 layers of the skin peeling and peel it all the way to the white or you could get cyanide poisoning!  

 The peeled cassava is grated then put in a blender with water and blended until fine. A yellowish fluid is a product of the mix,this is decanted,strained and consumed. If grated peeled cassava is blended or consumed raw and it kills cancer cells then further processing of the grated cassava to produce Garri is equally therapeutic for cancer. 

The high fiber content of garri promotes bowel emptying thus preventing the risk of colon cancer. This high fiber garri can be processed in several ways to fit different age groups,making it a cheap and better source of wholesome food. 

 Another method is to just grate the cassava that the 3 layer coatings have been removed and just  eat. #cassava

The benefits of garri as a source of fiber in diet.

RESEARCH: The benefits of fiber in diet. The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25 grams per day for women and 38 grams per day for men. However, some experts estimate as much as 95 percent of the population don’t ingest this much fiber. 

 Fiber is essential for regular bowel movements, cholesterol and blood sugar management, healthy gut bacteria, and preventing chronic disease, among other functions. 

 In populations that eat a regular high-fiber diet of more than 50 grams of fiber per day, like rural South Africans, chronic diseases such as colon cancer are very low. This is a stark contrast to the much higher risk of colon cancer among African-Americans who eat a higher fat diet with only about 15 grams of fiber per day.The benefits of fiber in diet. 

 In general, it’s better to get fiber from the food you eat than from supplements. This is because high-fiber foods also have important vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay healthy. There are two main types of fiber and each plays different roles in digestion.

Each type of fiber plays a different role in digestion:  insoluble and soluble fiber.

1) Insoluble fiber adds bulk to your stool and helps food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines. It also helps balance the pH in your intestine, and may prevent diverticulitis, an inflammation of the intestine, as well as colon cancer. Insoluble fiber physically fills up space in the stomach and intestines, creating the sensation of being full which help people manage their weight. e.g garri and wheat bran. 

  2) Soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance with food as it’s digested. This in turn slows down digestion and helps you feel full faster, which is important in weight management. It may also help lower your risk of heart disease, regulate your blood sugar, and help reduce LDL cholesterol.e.g .  apples, carrots

 Garri can be fortified to make functional foods to promote good health. Garri can be used to produce different meals for different health needs.

 Fermentable fibers can be from both these categories, though more often soluble fibers are fermented. Fibers fermented by bacteria help increase the bacteria in the colon, which aids digestion. 

AGRIBUSINESS: Nutritional benefits of cassava.

Nutritional benefits of cassava.#Cassava is a perennial, usually grown in tropical climates, very simply propagated by using a cut portion of the stem. The roots, often compared to large yams, can weigh several pounds.The leaves are also used for food and contain 100 times more protein than the root, but both must be cooked and the water discarded. 

  Cassava roots are close to what is known as white potatoes, cassava contains almost twice the calories, and may be the highest-calorie tuber known. 

One cup of boiled cassava contains 330 calories, 78 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of protein and 4 grams each of fiber and sugar. Cassava is naturally gluten-free is extremely useful for celiac patients and others trying to avoid gluten. 

One aspect of cassava is that it's one of several root foods defined by the Philippines' Department of Science and Technology as having a low glycemic index (GI) and therefore good for diabetics. GI is a classification of food based on the blood glucose response to a food relative to a standard glucose solution.

 Low glycemic foods control the release of glucose into the bloodstream at a steady and sustained rate, keeping the body's metabolic processes and energy levels balanced. People with low glycemic diets or [who] eat low glycemic foods are said to have lower risk of getting coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes. 

These food items that have low GI would benefit those who are already suffering from diabetes, since these would help in the proper control and management of blood sugar.

 As a low-GI food, eating cassava can also help improve physical endurance because blood glucose levels are moderated instead of dropping when insulin is produced.

 Low-GI foods also may help control triglyceride and other lipid levels in your blood. #Cassava has even been called a "weight loss wonder food" due to its ability to decrease appetite and decrease fat storage in fat cells.

 B-complex vitamins contained in cassava include folate, thiamin, pyridoxine (vitamin B6), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and riboflavin (vitamin B2). 

The root also includes a number of minerals that perform important functions throughout your body.

Cassava also contains saponins that can ease inflammation, break down organic body wastes like uric acid, cleanse mineral deposits from your joints and help balance your gut flora. #cassava #agribusiness #sme #money #entreprreneur

RESEARCH: 26 Amazing Benefits Of Cassava For Skin, Hair, And Health.

RESEARCH: 26 Amazing Benefits Of Cassava For Skin, Hair, And Health. Cassava is a tropical root that can be used along with potatoes, carrots, radishes and other tubers. Cassava is also used in flour, which is a kind of starch required in kitchens around the globe. Dry cassava flour can also be bought from grocery stores. The leaves of cassava can be used to prepare food as well as the leaves have higher protein content when compared to the nutrients found in the roots of cassava. RESEARCH: 26 Amazing Benefits Of Cassava For Skin, Hair, And Health. Cassava is the third-largest source of food carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize. Cassava is a major staple food in the developing world, providing a basic diet for over half a billion people. CASSAVA VALUE CHAIN AND FOOD SECURITY. Cassava can be processed into various products such as garri,tapioca, cake,bread and flakes. Cassava processed into garri otherwise called cassava flakes is one of the most common products and this delicacy enjoyed by all classes of people and all age groups. RESEARCH: 26 Amazing Benefits Of Cassava For Skin, Hair, And Health. The Benefits Of Cassava for the skin are as follows; 1)Smoothens And Brightens Your Complexion The peel of cassava plants can be used as a skin exfoliator. You can split the peels, make a fresh paste out of it and use it as a scrub. Brush the face well for a few minutes and wash it off with cold water. Do this thrice a week to get good results. 2) Great Face Mask Cassava plants also act as great face masks. Before you prepare your face mask, make sure you have washed your face with warm water. This will help in opening up the pores. The cassava mask will easily get absorbed and improve the texture and condition of your skin. Once you have washed your face, wait for it to dry completely. You may now rinse with cold water so that the pores close. Use your fingers to dry them. Doing this thrice a week will prevent and eliminate scars and impart a healthy glow in return. 3) Hydrates The Skin Cassava can also hydrate your skin tone and make it smooth and soft. You will have to prepare a mask for this one at home. Take cassava plant roots with some honey or olive oil. You can combine it with a fruit too. A few drops of will also do.continue

AfDB to invest $120 million to boost cassava, others.

AfDB to invest $120 million to boost cassava, others.In the next 2-3 years, the African Development Bank (AfDB) will be investing $120 million to increase productivity and transform cassava and other commodities on the continent. Dr. Martin Fregene, Director for Agriculture at AfDB, who made this known at the Fourth International conference on cassava, organized by the Global Cassava Partnerships for the 21st Century (GCP21), In Cotonou, Republic of Benin on Monday, said modifying cassava on the continent would aid African nations in reducing imports, thereby diverting about $1.2 billion into domestic economies. He said cassava is a strategic crop for food security and also the creation of wealth for women and youth in Africa. The largest volume of cassava comes from Africa, where it supports more than 350 million people.

Cassava :How Farmers Can Earn N10trn From Cassava Processing.

How Farmers Can Earn N10trn From Cassava Processing.Nigeria is the highest producer of cassava in the world with over 40 mil­lion metric tonnes per annum. About 60 per cent of Nigerian farmers are in­volved in cassava production because it is one of the food security crops. Cassava roots can grow on any soil in Nigeria and it is virtually grown in the 36 states of the federation. It is very resistant to drought and sur­vives in a variety of soils. But today investors are yet to understand the untapped investment opportunities and farmers hardly see cassava crop as avenue to hit hard currency. GROWING and producing cassava for local consumption, processing for industrial use and meeting the stan­dard of exportation is a huge invest­ment that can transform Nigeria’s economy with its potential to earn over N10 trillion annually and turn individuals to millionaires, even mul­ti-billionaires from cassava project. Cassava tubers that may be pro­cessed into a variety of products that are gaining huge demand in the ex­port market including chips, flakes popularly known as garri, cubes, peeler, starch for industrial and pharmaceutical use, flour, which can be eaten as elubo lafun or used in the bakery industry, pellets, glues and adhesives, ethanol and glucose syrup, among others. The Na­tional President of Cassava Growers Association, Pastor Segun Adewun­mi, said that from cassava alone, Nigeria could make twice what the country was making at the peak of crude oil production. He pointed out that Nigeria has 84 million hect­ares of arable land, that if five million of hectares can be developed in five years, it would be enough to provide N10 trillion annually through indus­trial cassava to Nigeria’s economy. He added: “From cassava you get ethanol in two grades, including bio-fuel and the food grade. The food grade we are using in this country is worth N3 trillion and we have not even started with the one of bio-fuel and industrial starch.

AGRIBUSINESS: Women and cassava processing in Nigeria.

Women and cassava processing in Nigeria. Women are the key players in cassava production and processing in Nigeria. They are involved in the planting, harvesting, processing, distribution and sales. Cassava processing operations include peeling, grating, fermentation, pressing, roasting, cooking and milling. 

 The constraints women still face in cassava processing include manual peeling which is time consuming and tedious, natural fermentation process which takes a long time, inadequate processing equipment, lack of storage facilities, high transportation cost, high processing cost, lack of funds, unstable agricultural policies, ineffective linkages in the value chain, and lack or delayed technical support of extension services.  

 Their productivity is due to low input technologies, lack of resources as a result of poverty and inadequate government support. 

Research technologies for small scale cassava processing have not adequately addressed the problems of women cassava processors in the gender perspective such as in the design of female-friendly tools for hydraulic pressing for ease of operation.

This can be addressed by Many of the cassava processing equipment produced by researchers are yet to be adopted by the rural processors 

Empowering women cassava processors effectively therefore requires gender responsive research approach, educating the women through sensitization and training and government intervention by gender mainstreaming of agricultural policies to tackle issues relating to cassava processing in the cassava value chain. 

 Key areas in educating the women processors include training on standards for cassava products and improved food safety practices, sensitization on industrial uses of cassava in order to encourage them to diversity their products to increase income generation and use of cassava waste in generating biogas to save processing cost.

How to boost productivity and efficiency of women in agriculture.

How to boost productivity and efficiency of women in agriculture. The role of women in agriculture cannot be undermined but their efficiency and productivity are bedeviled by various problems. 

 The role of women in agriculture is significant as they form a major percentage of producers found along the chain of production from farm to table. Women engage in tilling the soil,planting various crops and some are even processors.

  Women in agriculture play a vital role in food security.Women form the crust of development of rural and national economies as they make up 47% of the world’s agricultural labor force, which in some countries are as high as 75% 

       How to boost productivity and efficiency of women in agriculture.

 According to a study about 80% of the agricultural produce is from small farmers, that are basically rural women.

 These Women comprise the largest percentage of the workforce in the agricultural sector of which – 75% are food producers , 10% of these women are processors while the 15% are left with marketing. 

To boost productivity and efficiency of women in agriculture,there must be a deliberate move to buy the produce off them,which can be achieved by any of these methods.  

 1) A platform where an off- takers scheme is the motto. 

2) education on advanced food processing,branding and marketing. 

 Boosting  productivity and efficiency of women in agriculture can also be achieved if new innovative products are produced so that more market is created,an example is the innovative method of turning garri to snacks.

Star organic farmer championing toxic-free food production.

Star organic farmer championing toxic-free food production.A deficiency in his immune causing muscle weakness inspired Dennis Andaye to start his own companies that offer farmers and consumers’ nontoxic and healthy food. Star organic farmer championing toxic-free food production.

How technology is transforming Africa’s agricultural industry.

How technology is transforming Africa’s agricultural industry. The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (Agra) is reporting that close to 70% of the population is involved in agriculture as smallholder farmers working on parcels of land that are, on average, less than 2 hectares. Given those statistics, the importance of agriculture at the heart of conversations on Africa’s economy’s journey cannot be overemphasized. The World Bank estimates that Africa’s food market will be worth $1 trillion by 2030 up from the current $300 billion. In addition, the continent’s food import bill, the latest trends show, stands anywhere between $30–50 billion. How technology is transforming Africa’s agricultural industry.

Plateau State guns for potato export.

Plateau State guns for potato export.Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong has disclosed that the state will launch into the exportation of Irish potatoes in 2019 as a channel to increase its internal revenue.

We must support the government in agriculture – Traditional Rulers.

We must support the government in agriculture – Traditional Rulers.Traditional Rulers under the auspices of Royal Fathers in Agriculture (ROFINA) have flagged off the harvest of cassava in Imo State, South-East, Nigeria, to buoy up government’s campaign on agriculture. The President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ROFINA, His Royal Majesty, Eze Chidume Okoro, said the initiative was formulated out of the need for traditional rulers to support the government’s agricultural revolution. We must support the government in agriculture – Traditional Rulers.

Depression: a ‘serious public health hazard’ for people with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Depression: a ‘serious public health hazard’ for people with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa.Untreated depression could seriously compromise treatment outcomes for people living with HIV.Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders among people living with HIV. They are, according to statistics from western countries, two to three times more likely to develop symptoms compared to the general population. However, critics suggest that ‘insufficient attention’ is being placed on mental health issues in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where the majority of people living with HIV live and are in care. Published in the journal, PLoS ONE, a recent meta-analysis and review of studies investigating the link between HIV and depression has now revealed that prevalence ranges from a low of 3% among people on antiretroviral treatment (ART) to a high of 34% among treatment-naïve individuals across SSA countries.

Experimental vaccine to be used against Ebola outbreak in the DRC.

Experimental vaccine to be used against Ebola outbreak in the DRC.A campaign to vaccinate people at risk of developing Ebola in the latest outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo could begin by the end of this week, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director ofthe World Health Organization. Tedros said the government of the DRC has formally asked to use an experimental vaccine being developed by Merck. The WHO has a stockpile of 4,300 doses of the vaccine in Geneva; the company also has 300,000 doses of the vaccine stockpiled in the United States. Merck has given its permission for the vaccine to be used in this outbreak.

Why Ebola keeps coming back.

Why Ebola keeps coming back.The Ebola virus has reared its head again, this time in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While it is impossible to predict exactly where and when the next outbreak will occur, we now know much more about how to prevent a crisis. The news of an Ebola outbreak in the town of Bikoro in north-west DR Congo instantly brings to mind the horror of the epidemic that took 11,000 lives and infected 28,000 people in West Africa between 2014 and 2016. It is a nightmare no-one wants to relive - or should have to. Since 4 April in DR Congo, there have been more than 30 possible cases - involving 18 deaths - although only two incidents have so far been confirmed as Ebola. So why does Ebola keep coming back and what work is being done to prevent a repeat of the tragedy in West Africa? Ebola can spread rapidly, through contact with even small amounts of bodily fluid of those infected. Its early flu-like symptoms are not always obvious.

RESEARCH: Bitter kola controls stress better than kola nut.

RESEARCH: Bitter kola controls stress better than kola nut. Bitter kola controls stress better than kola nut. STEERING clear from stress is almost impossible in today’s high-pressure society. Before resorting to prescription drugs, bitter kola may be an option worth trying out. RESEARCH: Bitter kola controls stress better than kola nut.Interestingly, a study comparing the invigorating effect of bitter kola and kola nut found bitter kola a better option to reduce the feelings of stress and anxiety without having to visit the doctor’s clinic. RESEARCH: Bitter kola controls stress better than kola nut. Researchers found that both contain antioxidant and thus have the potential for scavenging free radicals, hence arresting oxidative stress. However, extracts of bitter kola were seen to be more potent than that of kola nut.

Empowering Smallholder Farmers In Fish, Poultry Farming.

Empowering Smallholder Farmers In Fish, Poultry Farming. The successful completion of training of over 200 women and youths from the Niger Delta region in poultry and fish farming entrepreneurial skills by the Federal Government will no doubt serve as a momentum towards growing the Nigerian poultry and aquaculture industry as well as significantly contribute to the overall actualisation of food security in the country. Empowering Smallholder Farmers In Fish, Poultry Farming.

FG to replace GES with agric mechanisation scheme.

FG to replace GES with agric mechanisation scheme. The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbeh disclosed that the federal government is to introduce a new programme called “Agriculture Implement and Mechanization Scheme (AIMS)” as a substitute to Growth Enhancement Scheme (GES). The Minister made the disclosure during the unveiling of the SMART Model Farm Site by John Deere Tractors Manufacturing Company at Gwagwalada Local Government Area in Abuja. FG to replace GES with agric mechanisation scheme.

TOP 10 DOG BREEDS THAT COMMONLY NEED C-SECTIONS.

TOP 10 DOG BREEDS THAT COMMONLY NEED C-SECTIONS.Cesarean sections, commonly called c-sections, affect the following breeds a lot more frequently than the others: Boston Terriers, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Mastiff, Scottish Terriers, Miniature Bull Terriers, German Wirehaired Pointer, Pekingeses, Dandie Dinmont Terriers, and St Bernards. Purebred dog breeds that often undergo a cesarean section during the birthing stage of their pregnancy require surgery due to small birth canals, too big heads for the puppies, or unexpected dystocia. The surgical operation for cesarean sections is called a hysterotomy. The methodology and technique have been perfected over the decades. Planned c-sections for dogs are safe but there is still a bit of a risk for unexpected cesarean sections, both for the mother and the puppies. Additionally, with canine cesarean sections, the mother does not have the occasion to instinctively bond with her whelps. Indeed, they are hand-removed by the veterinarians. Although this is generally no problem whatsoever, the mother may take more time to properly bond with her own litter of puppies. Make sure they are growing at a healthy pace.

Common Blood Tests Done on Cats.

Common Blood Tests Done on Cats. These are some of the common blood tests done on cats and what they indicate: 1) CBC :A CBC, or complete blood count, measures and examines a cat's blood cells. It gives the veterinarian a wealth of information. Some of this includes: Red blood cell (RBC) counts, proportions, and health. RBCs carry oxygen, iron, and other nutrients around the body. White blood cell (WBC) counts, proportions, and health. WBCs help fight inflammation, infection, cancer cells, and parasitic intruders. Platelet counts and health. Platelets control blood clotting. A CBC can tell a veterinarian if a cat is anemic, dehydrated, fighting some sort of inflammation or infection, and whether there is internal bleeding occurring. BUN and Creatinine Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine are blood chemistries that are routinely measured as part of larger blood panels. If the BUN is high, it can indicate dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or a liver problem. Creatinine levels are more strictly related to kidney function. High levels indicate that the cat's kidneys are having difficulty clearing the creatinine from the body and kidney disease may be present.

Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?.

Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?. How much do cats sleep? Cats sleep between 15 and 20 hours a day! This is twice as much sleep as most other mammals need.

 Cats get that much sleep by taking naps throughout the day and night, rather than sleeping for 18 hours all at once. Cats are crepuscular, this means that they are the most active during twilight times (dusk and dawn). During most other times of the day, they are either snoozing or in a deep sleep. 

Snoozing refers to the type of sleep when cats are usually sitting upright with their eyes partly open, and their ears twitch in response to noises. Cats are in a half-asleep state when they are snoozing, and about 75% of a cat's sleep-time is this type of sleep.

During deep sleep, cats are usually curled up, eyes completely closed, and they sometimes have their faces covered by their paws or tail. The well-known term "catnap" pays homage to these extraordinary feline sleeping abilities and styles.

RESEARCH: THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PEANUTS.

RESEARCH: THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PEANUTS. Here are some of the most well-known health benefits of Peanuts. 1. Rich in Energy: Peanuts contain vitamins, minerals, nutrients and anti-oxidants and thus are rich energy sources.This makes peanut nut an energy crunch that can boost you up .Eating peanut alone or in combination with other snacks still provide the necessary nutritious advantage. A new cereal,snack with peanut as one of the ingredients is making waves because of its unique taste. 2. Cholesterol: It lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol in the body (2). Peanuts contain mono-unsaturated fatty acids especially oleic acid that prevents coronary diseases. 3. Growth: Peanuts are rich in proteins. The amino acids present in them are good for proper growth and development of body (3). 4. Fights Stomach Cancer: Poly-phenolic anti-oxidants are present in the peanuts in high concentrations. P-Coumaric acid has the ability to reduce the risk of stomach cancer by reducing the productions of carcinogenic nitrous-amines more

Dark chocolate consumption reduces stress and inflammation.

Dark chocolate consumption reduces stress and inflammation.Findings from two new studies show dark chocolate consumption reduces stress and inflammation, while improving memory, immunity and mood. New research shows there might be health benefits to eating certain types of dark chocolate. Findings from two studies being presented today at the Experimental Biology 2018 annual meeting in San Diego show that consuming dark chocolate that has a high concentration of cacao (minimally 70% cacao, 30% organic cane sugar) has positive effects on stress levels, inflammation, mood, memory and immunity. While it is well known that cacao is a major source of flavonoids, this is the first time the effect has been studied in human subjects to determine how it can support cognitive, endocrine and cardiovascular health. Eating chocolates raw,or in combination with other food still delivers the health benefits. The fine blend of chocolate and yellow garri is a super combination that is delicious and healthy, see. Dark chocolate consumption reduces stress and inflammation.

Drinking baking soda could be an inexpensive, safe way to combat autoimmune disease.

Drinking baking soda could be an inexpensive, safe way to combat autoimmune disease. A daily dose of baking soda may help reduce the destructive inflammation of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, scientists say. They have some of the first evidence of how the cheap, over-the-counter antacid can encourage our spleen to promote instead an anti-inflammatory environment that could be therapeutic in the face of inflammatory disease. Drinking baking soda could be an inexpensive, safe way to combat autoimmune disease.

Eggs not linked to cardiovascular risk for people with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Eggs not linked to cardiovascular risk for people with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. University of Sydney researchers aim to help clear up conflicting dietary advice around egg consumption, as a new study finds eating up to 12 eggs per week for a year did not increase cardiovascular risk factors in people with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. The study shows eggs are good for you.

Migratory animals carry more parasites.

Migratory animals carry more parasites.Every year, billions of animals migrate across the globe, carrying parasites with them and encountering parasites through their travels. Now, a team of researchers has discovered that animals known to migrate long distances are infected by a greater number of parasite species than animals that do not migrate. Migratory animals carry more parasites.

Maize farmers get storage bags that help check post-harvest losses.

Maize farmers get storage bags that help check post-harvest losses. A new technology has been introduced in the region to help reduce maize farmers’ losses due to poor storage, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. Ministry officials said maize farmers last year lost up to Sh15 billion post-harvest due to poor storage. The technology, Purdue Improved Crop Storage (Pics), is expected to allow farmers to store grain for up to five years without having to use any preservatives.Once tied properly, no pests can penetrate it. If any pests are inside the maize after packing it in Pics bags, they will be suffocated. Maize farmers get storage bags that help check post-harvest losses. .

How a form 2 drop-out is making money from banana flour.

How a form 2 drop-out is making money from banana flour. Afros Ochieng Otieno dropped out of school in form two at Nyamusi Boys school due to lack of school fees in 2001 and was forced to do casual jobs such as weeding people’s farms for thirteen years. In July 2014, however, he and nine other friends started a self-help group to add value to bananas, a venture that is earning him Sh3,000 in profits daily. The group converts banana fingers into flour for baking bread, cakes and dough nuts. Besides, Ochieng converts banana peels which are usually dumped as waste into a fine medicinal powder that can be used to treat ulcers. How a form 2 drop-out is making money from banana flour.

FAO sets benchmark to guide Public, Private Partnership (PPP) .

FAO sets benchmark to guide Public, Private Partnership (PPP) .The Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) says it would set benchmark that would serve as guidelines for the African agricultural sector to bridge the gap between the public and private sector. 

 FAO Agribusiness Officer, Stephanie Gallatova, made this known at an agribusiness workshop attended by eight African countries in Nairobi. Gallatova said the Public, Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives have the potential to help transform the production-oriented agricultural sector of African countries into a dynamic market-oriented Agri-Food sector.

 FAO sets benchmark to guide Public, Private Partnership (PPP).

AfDB partners FG on irrigation facilities in rural areas.

AfDB partners FG on irrigation facilities in rural areas. As part of efforts geared towards the development of the agricultural sector, the Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Programme Phase 1 (ATASP-1) of the African Development Bank has partnered with the Federal Government to provide irrigation facilities, farm inputs and feeder roads in rural areas. AfDB partners FG on irrigation facilities in rural areas.

FG to procure 10,000 tractors for agric mechanisation.

FG to procure 10,000 tractors for agric mechanisation. Nigeria's Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh has disclosed Federal Government’s intention to purchase 10,000 tractors from U.S.-based John Deere Agriculture and Farming Equipment Company within the next five years. FG to procure 10,000 tractors for agric mechanisation to promote food security.

Antibiotic-resistant genes are being spread all over the world in animal feed.

Antibiotic-resistant genes are being spread all over the world in animal feed, scientists discover.Ten million people could die every year by 2050 if the rise of superbugs is not checked, experts have warned. Antibiotic-resistant genes are being spread around the world in animal feed, according to new research that adds to fears humanity could lose one of our most important medicines.

Nigeria can make billions from cassava export .

Nigeria can make billions from cassava export. Nigeria could earn billions in foreign currency from its 47 million tonnes of cassava tubers produced annually, according to a university don, Prof. Aloy Ezirim . Ezirim, a lecturer in the Faculty of Management Sciences, University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt .Ezirim said that Nigeria rather than producing cassava for food consumption alone should produce it for both industrial purpose and for consumption. Nigeria is the largest producer of cassava tubers in the world but cassava produced in the country is processed and consumed locally in various forms with little set aside for export.“Today, cassava has over 2,000 uses in the world that can easily replace or support crude oil as a foreign exchange earner and provide employment for many, if well harnessed". Nigeria can make billions from cassava export .

Farmers laud IITA’s “Seeds of Renaissance” initiative.

Farmers laud IITA’s “Seeds of Renaissance” initiative. Borno State Farmers have lauded the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) “Seeds of Renaissance” initiative – which was formulated to assuage the protracted food crisis in Northern Nigeria. Farmers across state had come forward to give evidence that they were recording high yields with the new seeds distributed by the institute in 2017.Farmers laud IITA’s “Seeds of Renaissance” initiative.

Nigeria woos foreign investors to bridge tomato production gap.

Stakeholders in the Nigeria tomato industry have agreed to hold annual tomato investment roundtable, as part of the initiative to build –up more investment required to stimulate production active along value- chain in country. Scaling –up investment in the sector, is believed would go a long way in generating activities that will address the current trend in which over 45 percent of tomato cultivated in the country are lost due to poor post-harvest management.Nigeria woos foreign investors to bridge tomato production gap. The stakeholders made this submission at a maiden edition of the Nigeria Tomato Investment Roundtable, held during the week, in the Dutse, capital of Jigawa State.Nigeria woos foreign investors to bridge tomato production gap. The roundtable which drew participants from within and outside the country, was declared opened by Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, governor of Jigawa state, and also had in attendance, Hafiz Abubakar deputy-governor of Kano state, among others.

The Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) has produced brake pads, bumpers and other vehicle parts from Kenaf, a fibrous plant.

The Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) has produced brake pads, bumpers and other vehicle parts from Kenaf, a fibrous plant. The brake pads and other vehicle accessories manufactured by FIIRO from the fibrous plant were displayed at the institute’s headquarters in Lagos during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between FIIRO, Kenaf Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (KPPMAN), and the Crystal Entrepreneurship Centre. In her opening speech, Gloria Elemo, director-general of FIIRO, stated that the research that went into the production of motor vehicle non-mechanical parts was borne out of the institute’s quest to industrialise Nigeria. Elemo pointed out that research and development (R&D) was useless until taken to the market, buttressing that this led the institute to collaborate with KPPMAN and CEC to commercialise the parts. Nigeria has a population of 198 million, with about 12 million vehicles plying on its roads. It has estimated 10,000 car sales annually, a significant drop from 50,000 cars sold in 2013. The country does not produce brake pads, bumper and other vehicle parts manufacturers, with Star Auto Industries Limited, only brake pads manufacturing firm, shutting down in 2014. Dunlop and Michelin, two tyre makers, left Nigeria in 2008 on the back of high energy cost, inability to compete with second-hand vehicles and lack of liquidity, those knowledgeable about the firms said. If commercialised, the new vehicle parts are tapped to reduce Nigeria’s import bill and increase local input sourcing in the country

How ATASP-1 is enriching rural farmers along commodity value chains.

How ATASP-1 is enriching rural farmers along commodity value chains.Nigeria is blessed with 84 million hectares of arable land located across the country, but these arable land is currently under utilized due to negligence of the agricultural sector by successive governments over the years. Also, Nigeria has the potential to cultivate rice, Cassava and sorghum both for local consumption and export, but due to poor support of farmers by the government over the years, Nigeria is currently importing some of these crops and its raw materials for industrial use and household use. It is at the backdrop that Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Programme Phase 1 (ATASP-1) had embarked in a mission to increase the production of some commodity value chain crops, and add value to the crops. How ATASP-1 is enriching rural farmers along commodity value chains.

Nigeria’s economic growth lies in exportation of agric products.

Nigeria’s economic growth lies in exportation of agric products.CHAIRMAN of Eti-Oni Development Group, organisers of the annual Cocoa Festival in Nigeria, Chief Dokun Thompson, has said that Nigerian sustainable economic growth assurance lies on the exportation Agricultural Finished products and not raw materials. Nigeria’s economic growth lies in exportation of agric products.

Africa must double cassava production to avert food crisis by 2050.

Africa must double cassava production to avert food crisis by 2050. As the Global Cassava Partnership for the 21st Century (GCP21) prepares for its 4th International Cassava Conference in Cotonou, Republic of Benin, scheduled for June 11-15, 2018, its Director, Dr. Claude Fauquet has warned that for the continent to avert a major food crisis by 2050, it needs to double her cassava production. Fauquet, who raised the alarm, at a world press conference in Lagos said though Africa accounts for 55 per cent of global cassava root production, its yield per hectare is the lowest in the world with about 10 tons per ha as opposed to Asia where average yield is 21 tons per hectare—or double the yield in Africa. Africa must double cassava production to avert food crisis by 2050. more

How to tackle seasonal fluctuation in prices of pepper and tomatoes.

       How to tackle seasonal fluctuation in price of pepper and tomatoes.

 Most Nigerian homes, especially in the Southwest region, who consume good quantity of pepper, may have to endure the current high price of the commodity in the market.

  For now, according to a survey, scarcity is the factor contributing to the current price increase. The fact that pepper  is a major spice used in foods makes it an essential commodity across the country.

Nutrition agency tackles tomato harvest loss.

Nutrition agency tackles tomato harvest loss. yNigeria is set to reap improved gains from the tomato value chain, as the Post-harvest Loss Alliance for Nutrition (PLAN), expands its capacity building/training for citizens on appropriate processing methods and packaging technologies. The recent training, held in Kaduna, had 30 participants from both public and private sectors as PLAN, an initiative of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), seeks to maximise Nigeria’s nutrition potential from tomato, in which it ranks as the 14th largest producer globally with an estimated annual output of 1.8 million metric tonnes. According to PLAN, in spite of the high production rate, the demand gap is hardly met due to the colossal post-harvest losses occasioned by poor post-harvest management industry, thereby leading to low consumption of nutritious foods and reduced income for farmers.

AGRIBUSINESS: Yellow Cassava.

AGRIBUSINESS: Yellow Cassava. How the yellow cassava is winning the Vitamin A deficiency war. Yellow cassava is a new, yellow-fleshed breed of cassava making waves in Africa. The yellow root cassava are grown for their high concentrations of β-carotene a precursor to Vitamin A. AGRIBUSINESS: Yellow Cassava. Vitamin A deficiency is a major issue, especially in Africa,and Nigeria especially has a prevalence of Vitamin A deficiency in nearly one third of children under five years old. Bio fortification of food to alleviate certain deficiencies in the past have been instituted with products such as sugar,salt,flour e.t.c. AGRIBUSINESS: Yellow Cassava. The introduction of the new variant of cassava is to stop the vitamin A deficiency is a good innovation as cassava products are stable foods in the country hence more people will be reached especially children who drink garri regularly. Garri a staple food in the country had 2 types the white and yellow forms which both originated from the normal cassava,but processed differently. The white garri is fried without palm oil while the yellow type is fried with palm oil when processing to boost its nutritional value. The advantage of the yellow cassava is that the nutritional level is already boosted,thus the garri comes out yellow saving producers the stress of adding palm oil and thus reducing the cost of production. AGRIBUSINESS: Yellow Cassava. The yellow cassava can be used to produce all the same products as the white cassava but now with a tinge of yellow. Children under five and pregnant women are mostly affected with Vitamin A deficiency which results in increase disease risk, preventable blindness,reduced immunity and death. Vitamin A deficiency is also a major cause of hidden hunger thus adults who dont eat balanced diet can also succumb to blindness and increase disease risk. AGRIBUSINESS: Yellow Cassava. The yellow cassava products such as yellow garri in combination with other ingredients can be used to make delicious foods such as cereals,snacks,soups that children will love and enjoy eating. The yellow cassava garri can used to make flakes, chocoballs,pancakes and loops.

AGRIBUSINESS : CASSAVA VALUE CHAIN AND FOOD SECURITY.

      AGRIBUSINESS : CASSAVA VALUE CHAIN AND FOOD SECURITY.


Cassava called Manihot esculenta, is extensively cultivated as an annual crop in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible starchy tuberous root, a major source of carbohydrates.

Cassava is the third-largest source of food carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize. Cassava is a major staple food in the developing world, providing a basic diet for over half a billion people. 

 FOOD SECURITY.

Investing in cassava is profitable for man and animals as the peels can be processed as feed of high value in the livestock industry.

Cassava is one of the most drought-tolerant crops, capable of growing on marginal soils and Nigeria is the world's largest producer of cassava, while Thailand is the largest exporter of dried cassava.

 Cassava can be processed into various products such as garri,tapioca, cake,bread and flakes. .



Cassava processed into garri otherwise called cassava flakes is one of the most common products and this delicacy enjoyed by all classes of people and all age groups.

How to Fix Your Fractured Feline Patients.( Feline Orthopedics).

How to Fix Your Fractured Feline Patients.( Feline Orthopedics). A 4 year-old cat arrives as an emergency after a road traffic accident. He presents with a flaccid tail and urinary incontinence. The radiographs show a tail pull injury. Which factors may help you in predicting return of urinary and tail functions? The presence of intact anal and perineal reflexes are positive prognostic signs for return of urinary function. In addition, intact pain sensation within 5 cm of the tail base, is strongly predictive of early return of bladder control. However, absence of tail base pain sensation does not preclude eventual recovery, as 60% of cats without sensation at the tail base will also recover. If normal urination returns, it usually does between 2–30 days. If normal urination has not returned within 1 month of the trauma, then it is unlikely to return. Tail function may take several months or longer to improve. Source: Feline Orthopedics Mini Series.