Animal Research International

Public health awareness on flea infestations of domesticated goats in Otapha, Rivers State, Nigeria

Emmanuel Green Ekine — 2024-05-02

This study investigated flea infestation on domesticated goats in Otapha, Rivers State, Nigeria. A total of 100 domesticated goats reared in Otapha were subjected to flea screening and 61% were reported positive. Fleas were removed from the skin of goats by hand picking and by the used of forceps. The detected fleas were stored in 50% alcohol and conveyed to the laboratory for bioassay. The recovered fleas were identified to species level using flea pictorial key. Flea infestation was noticed in all the settlements where goats were sampled. The encountered flea species in this study were Ctenocephalides canis (24.4%), Ctenocephalides felis (25.6%) and Pulex irritans (50.0%). The high manifestation of flea species in this study suggests that the environmental conditions in Otapha were favourable for rapid growth and survival of flea among goats in the settlements. The result further implied that the inhabitants of Otapha lack the basic diary methods to adequately domesticate goats hence can be highly vulnerable to flea-borne infections such as murine typhus. The response, the attitude and habit of animal owners indicated that they had zero idea concerning the necessity for veterinary visit for the purpose of disease diagnosis, animal treatment and care. Hence, they employ no precautionary measures to mitigate flea populations on the animal skin, thereby putting the animals at high risk of infestation and making goat owners more vulnerable to flea- borne infections.

Growth and establishment parameters of dual-purpose legumes as influenced by three organic fertilizers in the coastal rainforest of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Ikobong Edet Ekette — 2024-05-02

This study, conducted in Obio Akpa, AbakThis study, conducted in Obio Akpa, Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, explores the impact of various organic fertilizers on the growth and establishment parameters of dual-purpose legume types in the coastal rainforest. Specifically, it investigates the growth of cowpea, groundnut and soya bean crops over a five-week period. Leveraging the unique ecological and climatic conditions of the region, a randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed to ensure the reliability and robustness of the results. The study encompasses four distinct treatments, including a control group and the application of goat droppings, poultry droppings and pig dung as organic fertilizers. Findings reveal significant variations in crop growth parameters, with a particular focus on mean leaf number and leaf length, among the different treatments. Remarkably, goat droppings, pig dung and poultry droppings consistently exhibited substantial positive effects on crop growth, surpassing the performance of the control conditions. These findings provide valuable insights into the optimization of organic fertilizer selection based on the specific requirements of crops in coastal rainforest environments, thereby enhancing agricultural sustainability and productivity. The results of this study have far-reaching implications for addressing agricultural sustainability challenges, especially in regions like Nigeria, where agriculture serves as a fundamental pillar of the economy and food security. By tailoring organic fertilizer choices to suit the needs of different crops, farmers can significantly enhance their yields and contribute to the overall prosperity of their communities and the nation. Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, explores the impact of various organic fertilizers on the growth and establishment parameters of dual- purpose legume types in the coastal rainforest. Specifically, it investigates the growth of cowpea, groundnut and soya bean crops over a five-week period. Leveraging the unique ecological and climatic conditions of the region, a randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed to ensure the reliability and robustness of the results. The study encompasses four distinct treatments, including a control group and the application of goat droppings, poultry droppings and pig dung as organic fertilizers. Findings reveal significant variations in crop growth parameters, with a particular focus on mean leaf number and leaf length, among the different treatments. Remarkably, goat droppings, pig dung and poultry droppings consistently exhibited substantial positive effects on crop growth, surpassing the performance of the control conditions. These findings provide valuable insights into the optimization of organic fertilizer selection based on the specific requirements of crops in coastal rainforest environments, thereby enhancing agricultural sustainability and productivity. The results of this study have far-reaching implications for addressing agricultural sustainability challenges, especially in regions like Nigeria, where agriculture serves as a fundamental pillar of the economy and food security. By tailoring organic fertilizer choices to suit the needs of different crops, farmers can significantly enhance their yields and contribute to the overall prosperity of their communities and the nation. Nigeria, explores the impact of various organic fertilizers on the growth and establishment parameters of dual-purpose legume types in the coastal rainforest. Specifically, it investigates the growth of cowpea, groundnut and soya bean crops over a five-week period. Leveraging the unique ecological and climatic conditions of the region, a randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed to ensure the reliability and robustness of the results. The study encompasses four distinct treatments, including a control group and the application of goat droppings, poultry droppings and pig dung as organic fertilizers. Findings reveal significant variations in crop growth parameters, with a particular focus on mean leaf number and leaf length, among the different treatments. Remarkably, goat droppings, pig dung and poultry droppings consistently exhibited substantial positive effects on crop growth, surpassing the performance of the control conditions. These findings provide valuable insights into the optimization of organic fertilizer selection based on the specific requirements of crops in coastal rainforest environments, thereby enhancing agricultural sustainability and productivity. The results of this study have far-reaching implications for addressing agricultural sustainability challenges, especially in regions like Nigeria, where agriculture serves as a fundamental pillar of the economy and food security. By tailoring organic fertilizer choices to suit the needs of different crops, farmers can significantly enhance their yields and contribute to the overall prosperity of their communities and the nation.

Mammary gland lymphoma in a 7-year-old German Shepherd bitch

Olumide Samuel Ajani — 2024-05-02

Mammary gland tumors are commonly observed in older, intact female dogs, while male dogs are rarely affected. The incidence of mammary gland tumors in dogs is significantly higher than in other domestic species, accounting for about 50% of tumor cases in dogs. A 7-year-old intact German Shepherd bitch was presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, with swollen mammary glands and a history of conception failure, despite a successful mating a few months prior. Samples were collected using the fine needle aspirate technique from the swollen inguinal mammary glands and popliteal lymph nodes for cytological examination, which revealed confirmatory evidence suggestive of lymphoma. This article describes the mammary gland tumor in an adult intact bitch and her subsequent euthanasia due to tumor metastasis.

Physicochemical, heavy metal and microbial analyses of Awba Dam Water, University Of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria

Flora Eyibio Olaifa — 2024-05-02

The impacts of anthropogenic activities on surface water quality, heavy metals and microbial load of Awba Dam, University of Ibadan were studied for four months. Awba Dam was stratified into four stations (A, B, C and D) based on hydrological features. Two sampling points were randomly selected from each station. Monthly stratification covered September to December. Water samples were collected bi-weekly following standard procedures. Water samples collected were analysed for temperature (oC), dissolved oxygen (DO, mg/L); heavy metal (HM) (lead, iron, chromium and copper) in water (mg/L) and microbial loads (ML) (CFU/100 mL) according to standard methods. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α0.05. Significantly highest and least temperatures were 27.60 ± 2.23 and 27.10; DO (3.84 ± 0.35, 3.37 ± 0.11) in stations D and A, while BOD (5.81 ± 2.69, 5.30 ± 2.42) were recorded in stations A and B respectively. Significantly highest and least levels of HM were: lead (0.89 ± 0.35, 0.14 ± 0.06); iron (0.48 ± 0.08, 0.19 ± 0.05); chromium (3.51 ± 0.01, 1.50 ± 0.01) and copper (0.01 ± 0.01, 0.01 ± 0.01) were recorded in September and November, but ML (4.76 x 10-6 and 4.00 x 10-6) were obtained as highest and lowest in December and September respectively. Results from this study showed that, Awba Dam is contaminated with lead, iron, chromium and copper and ML. It is recommended that adequate monitoring and pollution reduction strategies be implemented to improve the aquatic resources of the dam.

Increasing productivity of local chicken from local farmers through early separation of chicks from brooding hen in Dodoma, Tanzania

Kelvin Ngongolo — 2024-05-02

Low production of local chicken was among the challenges faced by small-scale local chicken farmers in Dodoma, Tanzania, as reported in a previous study. In this case, this study stressed that understanding the manipulation of broody hens through early separation from chicks can increase the productivity of local chickens for farmers. Laying hens were monitored from the start of laying until they finished the circle and started laying again. The hen was allowed to lay, incubate, and hatch eggs. Following hatching, the chicks were separated from the hen by varying distances of 3 – 10 m. Eggs were laid, incubated and hatched, and the time interval taken for the hen to start laying again after the chick’s separation was recorded. The average number of eggs laid, incubated and hatched per hen per circle varied significantly (p<0.05) between wet and dry seasons. About 60% of the hens lost their brooding behaviour in the first week, while about 40% did so in the second week. The average me it took for the hen to resume laying after chicks’ separation ranged from 14 to 15 days, depending on factors such as season, distance between chicks and hen. The calling of hens to chicks decreased significantly (p<0.001) in the third week. In this study, the single laying circle lasted about 30 – 34 days. Early chicks’ separation from hens can increase local chicken productivity for farmers, thus improving food security, income and employment.

Histopathological analyses of liver and gill of Coptodon zillii obtained from Okerenkoko Waterfront, Delta State, Nigeria

Somorhire Jacob Ewutanure — 2024-05-02

Pollutants and untreated anthropogenic effluents in surface water can cause abnormal changes in internal organs of fishes. Liver and gill are the most affected fish tissues due to their constant contact with toxins. Histopathological biomarkers are identifiable abnormalities in tissues of organisms predisposed to wide range of environmental pollutants. Information on histopathological biomarkers of fish from the Okerenkoko Waterfront (OWF) is limited. Hence, this study was carried out to investigate the effects of untreated effluents on the liver and gill of Coptodon zillii obtained from OWF. Samples of C. zillii were collected for four months using gill net of mesh size 24 mm. Liver and gill of farmed C. zillii were used as control. Harvested liver and gill of C. zillii were fixed in Bouin’s fluid and taken to laboratory for histopathological assay using standard procedures. The C. zillii harvested from OWF showed significant damage in selected organs. Liver tissues showed hepatocyte vacuolization, hepatocyte degeneration, necrosis, inflammation and sinusoids dilation, while gill tissues revealed uplifting of the primary epithelium, fusion, vacuolation, hypertrophy and necrosis. Liver and gill tissues of control C. zillii did not show any histopathological abnormalities in its liver and gills. Results from this study showed a positive correlation between the extent of tissue damage and surface water pollution. Findings from this study serve as baseline for future studies, while regular monitoring of pollutants in the OWF should be encouraged to protect its fish stock.

Impact of different manure on the growth and yield of maize in Southern Nigeria

Sifon Nnana Mbabah — 2024-05-02

A field experiment was conduct at the Teaching and Research Farm, Akwa Ibom State University, Nigeria, to study the impact of different manures on the growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L). Three different manures were used to include: poultry droppings, pig dungs and goat droppings. It was replicated three times and was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Data were collected on vegetative traits and yield component and statistically analyzed. The growth and yield attributes increased significantly with the application of poultry droppings. The control plot gives significantly lower means and maize that received 20 t/ha recorded the highest mean in all growth and yield parameter evaluated in the study. Applications of poultry manure significantly improve vegetative growth and yield attributes of maize plant and therefore recommended for adoption by resource-poor farmer can adopt the use of poultry droppings as substitute for inorganic fertilizer and ultimately improve yield in the study area.

Hospital-based study of malaria in University of Nigeria Medical Centre, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria

Josephine Chinenye Ekwezuo — 2024-05-02

A hospital-based study on malaria was carried out at the University of Nigeria Medical Centre in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria between 2016 and 2021. Data with diagnoses for malaria cases; such as person count and sex distribution were received from the Hospital's Records Department and extrapolated before being entered into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. A total of 33,792 cases of malaria were noted in the hospital's medical records. The results of this study also demonstrated that the report of malaria cases in 2020 was lowest due to the COVID-19 lockdown, while that of 2019 was the highest. The mean annual malaria cases varied over the other years. In total, there were 13,705 cases of malaria in males compared to 20,087 cases in females (40.6 vs. 59.4%). The number of malaria cases in males and females varied significantly (F = 27.74, p = 0.0001). The high rate of malaria cases at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka suggests that further malaria intervention and prevention strategies, such as the free distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, are required to achieve the goal of drastic reduction of malaria infection in the study area. The government should also ensure that medical facilities are strengthened with adequate tools and a steady supply of affordable and high-quality drugs.

Intestinal pathology associated with natural infection of coccidiosis in domestic pigeons in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

Ashever Jocelyn Terfa — 2024-05-02

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Eimeria species in domestic pigeons and study the gross as well as the microscopic pathology they cause in the intestinal tract of the birds in Makurdi, Benue State. A total of 310 healthy pigeons comprising 171(55.2%) males and 139(44.8%) females; 133(42.9%) were sampled during the dry season and 177(57.1%) were sampled during the wet season from local farmers in Makurdi, Benue State. Faeces from the rectum of each bird were analyzed using the simple flotation method for the detection of Eimeria oocyst. Intestinal gross lesions were noted and intestinal segments were obtained for Histopathological studies. The prevalence of Eimeria species in pigeons of Makurdi was 170/310(54.8%). The infection was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the male Pigeons as compared to the female (p>0.05). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the number of pigeons infected in the wet season as compared with the dry season. Gross lesions revealed hemorrhagic enteritis and from the histopathological sections of the intestine, developmental stages of Eimeria species were seen in the mucosa, submucosa, and muscularis mucosa respectively with necrosis of villi and inflammatory cell infiltration. It was concluded that Since Eimeria species are highly prevalent in domestic pigeons and cause severe intestinal lesions, constant Veterinary surveillance is required to prevent economic losses in the pigeon industry.

Embryotoxicity of chlorpyrifos on gastrulation, segmentation, and hatching of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

Prosper Ashibudike Opute — 2024-05-02

This study aimed to investigate the effect of chlorpyrifos on the embryonic development of Clarias gariepinus. Freshly fertilized eggs of C. gariepinus were subjected to varying concentrations of chlorpyrifos (0.01, 0.1, 1.0, and 10 μg L^-1) during embryogenesis in a static renewal bioassay. The investigation focused on three crucial stages of embryogenesis: gastrulation, segmentation, and hatching. During the gastrulation stage, observations of germ rings, caudal edge, and cephalic edge were consistent across both treatment and control groups. Results from the segmentation stage revealed complete somite blocks in both treatment and control groups. At hatching, the optic primordial, myotomal muscle, yolk sac, notochord, and mouth gape were fully formed at 24 hours posthatching in the control and treatment groups, except at the highest concentration (10 μg L^-1), where hatching did not occur. Notably, there were no significant aberrations during the embryogenesis period across the treatments. The hatchability test indicated that at the lowest concentration of chlorpyrifos (0.01 μg L^-1), 60% of the thirty fertilized eggs hatched. The 0.1 μg L^-1 treatment exhibited a hatching rate of 40%, while the 1.0 μg L-¹ treatment group showed a hatching rate of 20%. Although exposure of catfish embryos to chlorpyrifos at reduced concentrations did not result in significant effects, except at 10 μg L-1, the mere presence of chlorpyrifos in water bodies underscores the need for further evaluation of the subtle effects at environmentally relevant concentrations, which can only be identified through mechanistic analysis, on the development of fish eggs, larvae, and other aquatic fauna.

Modulatory effect of air-dried Moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth and physiology of African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

Benjamin Enede Uchola — 2024-05-02

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of air-dried Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MLM) on the growth and physiology of African catfish. Air-dried MLM was incorporated into a diet D1 (19.64MJ/kg) at 0, 2, and 6% resulting in three diets. Each diet in the D1 group was fed to African catfish fingerlings (13.35 ± 0.02) at 5% body weight in triplicate group for 56 days. Weight gain was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the control diet (0% MLM) compared to MLM-based diets. White blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly (p<0.05) higher in fish-fed 2% MLM relative to those of the control and 6% MLM. Red blood cell (RBC), Haemoglobin (Hb), Mean cell volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration decreased with increasing MLM inclusion levels. Higher levels of RBC and Hb were related to higher weight gain. Levels of liver enzymes- alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) decreased with increasing MLM inclusion levels. Decreases in ALT, AST, and ALP were not different (p<0.05) among the treatments. Serum total protein, albumin, and globulin levels increased in MLM-based treatments, 2% MLM were similar (p<0.05) to those of the control treatment while 6% MLM was different. Low dietary inclusion of air-dried MLM boosts WBC and increases serum proteins with no negative effect on liver enzymes. Regression of weight gain on MLM levels suggests an optimum range of 0.5 – 1% dietary inclusion can sustain growth making it a suitable feed additive.

Growth performance and carcass characteristics of finisher broiler chickens fed dietary supplementation of acetylsalicylic acid during dry season

Olusola Olufisayo Awoneye — 2024-05-02

Heat stress has been recognized as a great challenge in the poultry industry, and its effects are mostly felt in tropical countries, hence, the need to alleviate heat stress problems in poultry production. This experiment was therefore carried out to assess the effect of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on growth performance and carcass characteristics of finisher broiler chickens during the transition from dry to rainy season (January – March). One hundred and ninety-two (192) three-week-old broiler chicks (ANAK) were used for this experiment. The birds were randomly divided into four dietary treatments, each treatment comprising 48 birds, which was replicated 4 times containing 12 birds per replicate. Diet 1 (T1) which is the control had no inclusion of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), Diet 2 (T2) contained 0.025% inclusion of ASA, Diet 3 (T3) contained 0.050% inclusion of ASA, and Diet 4 (T4) had 0.075% of ASA. The result of the growth performance of finisher broilers showed that finisher broilers fed 0.075% ASA had the significantly highest (p>0.05) total feed intake value of 4766.60 ± 43.86 g. The percentage of mortality decreased as the level of ASA supplementation increased. Significant treatment effect was also observed in all the carcass parameters investigated; broilers fed 0.025% were observed to have the highest breast weight value (561.75 ± 68.89 g). while broilers fed 0.075% had the highest (p<0.05) thigh value of 262.00 ± 7.03g, the highest (p<0.05) drumstick value was recorded in broilers fed 0.050% ASA with value of 238.90 ± 6.87 g. It was concluded that ASA supplementation improved the growth performance and reduced mortality in broiler chickens.

Serum biochemistry and hormonal profile of finisher broilers fed dietary supplementation of acetylsalicylic acid during dry season

Olusola Olufisayo Awoneye — 2024-05-02

Acute heat stress contributes greatly to sudden death in animals and induces serious intracorporal damage even if the animal survives. This trial was therefore conducted to unravel the effect of dietary supplementation of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on the serum biochemical composition and hormonal status of finisher broiler chickens during the transition from dry to rainy season (January – March). One hundred and ninety-two (192) day-old broiler chicks (ANAK) were randomly allotted to four treatment diets supplemented with 0, 0.025, 0.050, and 0.075% of ASA at 48 birds/treatment in four replicates of 12 birds each. The result revealed that broilers fed 0.075% ASA had the highest (p<0.05) aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase with the values of 69.12 ± 6.52 IU/L, 58.02 ± 11.75 IU/L respectively, while broilers fed 0.050% ASA had the lowest (p<0.05) cholesterol value of 57.27 ± 2.61 mg/dL. The highest (p<0.05) total protein value of 4.20 ± 0.11 g/dL was observed in broilers fed the control diet. There were significant treatment effects (p<0.05) in all the hormonal parameters investigated. Estradiol was observed to increase as the level of ASA supplementation increased. Similarly, broilers fed 0.075% ASA had the highest (p<0.05) progesterone value. It could be concluded that ASA supplementation improves serum biochemical profile, as well as reduces the cholesterol level of experimental birds.

Toxicity, anti-nutritional factors, and performance characteristics of weaner’s rabbit-fed sprouted Moringa seed meal

Christie Oluwatosin Raimi — 2024-05-02

ten-week feeding trial was conducted to determine the performance of rabbits fed diets containing graded levels of sprouted Moringa seed meal (SMSM). Twenty-four male growing rabbits of mixed breeds were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments. Each treatment group was further subdivided into three (3) replicates of two (2) rabbits each in a completely randomized design (CRD). Four diets were formulated to include SMSM at varying inclusion levels of 0, 5, 10, and 15% for treatments T1, T2, T3, and T4 respectively,
which were pelletized. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Data were collected on the growth performance of rabbits fed the experimental diets. Results revealed that the average daily feed intake (71.57 ± 3.73 – 85.07 ± 3.83 g) decreased across the dietary treatments as the SMSM inclusion levels increased but a rise was noticed at the highest inclusion level of SMSM (T4). The weight gains and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were not significantly influenced (p>0.05) by the dietary treatments. It can be concluded that SMSM can be supplemented in growing rabbit’s diet without any deleterious effects on the performance. The utilization of SMSM can be used up to 15% on diets and increased income from diets of weaner rabbits.

Effects of Gymnema sylvestre leaves extract on liver and kidney of potassium bromate-treated rats

Ele-Ojo Ataguba — 2024-05-02

This study investigated the effect of methanol extract of Gymnema sylvestre (Gs) leaves on body/organ weight and selected biochemical parameters of serum, liver, and kidney of potassium bromate-treated rats. The animals were grouped into six groups with the control as group 1 while others were administered KBrO₃ (20 mg/kg body weight (bwt)) only, Gs extract (200 mg/kg bwt) only, Gs extract (500 mg/kg bwt) only or with KBrO₃ (20 mg/kg bwt) and Gs extract (200 or 500 mg/kg bwt). Liver and kidney function indices were determined by spectrophotometric assay of the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine concentrations respectively, while serum electrolyte: Na⁺, K⁺, Cl^-, Ca²⁺ and HCO₃ ^- concentrations were determined using an automatic electrolyte analyzer. KBrO₃ induced a significant increase (p˂0.05) in the liver and kidney function indices when compared to the control after 10 and 15 days of administration. The increase in activity of the serum enzymes confirmed the property of KBrO₃ as a membrane labilisers. The administration of methanol extract of Gs leaves to KBrO₃-treated rats significantly reversed (p˂0.05) the increase in activity of the liver enzymes as well as the electrolyte concentrations for both days. This is suggestive of the hepatoprotective potential and ability to protect the urinary tract by the plant extract. The results of this study suggest the possible application of the methanol extract of Gs leaves as a remedy for KBrO₃ toxicity.

Meat lipid profile and flavour attributes of deep-fried chicken breast breaded with alternative coating

Utibe Mfon Okon — 2024-05-02

The meat lipid profile and flavour attributes of deep-fried breaded chicken breasts were evaluated with alternative edible coatings. Four types of coatings (wheat flour, sweet potato flour, cassava flour, and cocoyam flour) were utilized for the study. The coatings were designated T₁, T₂, T₃, and T₄ respectively. The deep-fried chicken meats were analyzed for meat lipid profile, oxidative stability, and flavour attributes. All data collected were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance. Results showed that the application of the edible alternative coatings significantly influenced (p<0.05) the chicken meat lipid profile. High-density lipoprotein increased, with breaded chicken meat in the T4 group recording the highest value. Cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein were reduced in favour of T₄. Alternative edible coatings improved the oxidative stability of the meat. Using cocoyam flour as a coating material for deep-frying resulted in lower TBARS values (p<0.05). The scores for sensory attributes were not significantly different (p>0.05) in flavour and overall acceptability. However, the colour, tenderness, and juiciness of the edible coated samples were significantly different, with T₄ receiving higher tenderness and juiciness scores than the controls. It was concluded that the alternative coatings, especially cocoyam, could be a viable alternative to wheat in reducing bad cholesterol and improving chicken meat's oxidative stability and flavour attributes.

Effects of resveratrol on lipid profile of diabetes mellitus wound healing of male Wistar rats

Aisha Idris — 2024-05-02

There is a growing body of research showing the potential health benefits of resveratrol, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study investigates the potential effects of resveratrol on lipid profile and its impact on wound healing in a Male Albino Wistar Rats model of type 2 diabetes. 24 Male Albino Wistar Rats were rendered diabetic using a high-fat diet and an Alloxan injection. The rats were grouped into 4: Nondiabetic Control Group A (negative control), Diabetic Control Group B (positive control), Diabetic Treatment Group C (10 mg/kg resveratrol), and Diabetic Treatment Group D (20 mg/kg resveratrol). Excisional wounds were created on the dorsum of the rats and monitored for wound closure over a defined treatment period of 14 days. Body weight and fasting blood glucose levels were measured after the procedure and after the treatment respectively. Blood samples were collected on the 15th day by cardiac puncture to assess lipid profile parameters. Resveratrol administration positively modified body weight, blood glucose, and lipid profile, reducing total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and elevation of high-density lipoprotein levels. Resveratrol supplementation not only enhanced wound healing but also alleviated dyslipidaemia in type 2 diabetic albino male rats, a common complicating factor in the management of diabetic wounds. These results imply that resveratrol might have a broad range of therapeutic applications in treating lipid profile abnormalities linked to type 2 diabetes as well as wound healing complications.

Parasites of cockroaches in the university of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria

Chinenye Maria-Goretti Ohanu — 2024-05-02

This study was carried out to determine the ectoparasites and endoparasites of cockroaches at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The prevalence of parasites in cockroaches, their presence, abundance, and the role of cockroaches as potential carriers of human and animal parasites were determined. A total of 170 adult cockroaches were caught. Cockroaches were identified as Periplaneta americana 116(68.24%), Blatella
germanica 45(26.47%), and Blatta orientalis 9(5.29%). A total of 89.7% of P. americana and 42.2% of B. germanica were infected, while none were infected in B. orientalis. Ascaris lumbricoides eggs (87%), Strongyloides spp. (51%), Hammerschmiditiella diesingi (10%), Leidynema spp. (6%), Toxascaris leonina (0.7%) and unknown parasites (6%) were found in P. americana. A. lumbricoides (40%), S. stercoralis (8.9%), H. diesingi, and Leidynema spp. (13.3%) were found in B. germanica. P. ameriana caught in toilets were more infected (96.1%) when compared to those from dump sites (92.6%), classrooms (66.7%), and hostel rooms (87.0%). None of B. germanica and B. orientalis were caught in the toilet. Infected B. germanica were 20.0% in offices, 64.7% in dump sites, 30.7% in classrooms, and 30.0% in hostel rooms. Almost all encountered parasites were possible pathogens for both human and zoonotic diseases. The parasites can be spread easily by cockroaches as mechanical vectors. The university community, the government, and the general public should create awareness of health education and pest control management approaches to contain and manage the population and diseases of cockroaches at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Semen quality and histomorphological analysis of testicular tissues of rabbit bucks administered human menopausal gonadotropin

Anietie Archibong Ansa — 2024-05-02

The study investigated the effects of Menogon treatment on semen quality and histomorphology of testicular tissues in rabbit bucks. Twenty-four bucks of Chinchilla × Dutch breed, weighing 1.3 – 1.6 kg at 15 – 17 weeks of age, were divided into four groups receiving different Menogon doses (0.0 IU as control, 7.5 IU, 15.0 IU, and 22.5 IU) for 105 days in a completely randomised design (CRD). Each treatment group was replicated three times with two bucks per replicate. Semen quality and histological examination of the testes were assessed. Results showed that progressive sperm motility, sperm concentration, live sperm percentage, and libido were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the group receiving 15.0 IU of Menogon compared to other groups. The percentage of total abnormal sperm was significantly lower in the 15.0 IU group compared to ther groups. Histological analysis revealed that the 15.0 IU treatment induced more hyperplasia of the germinal epithelium, which positively impacted semen production. These findings suggest that the optimal reproductive processes in rabbit bucks were observed at a Menogon dose of 15.0 IU, indicating the potential of Menogon in enhancing testicular health and spermatogenic processes.

Haematological profile and body weight of rabbit bucks administered human menopausal gonadotropin (Menogon)

Anietie Archibong Ansa — 2024-05-02

The study investigated the effect of Menogon treatment on haematological parameters and body weight of male rabbits. Twenty-four bucks of Chinchilla × Dutch breed, weighing between 1.3 – 1.6 kg and aged 15 – 17 weeks, were divided into four groups receiving different doses of Menogon (0.0 IU as control, 7.5, 15.0, and 22.5 IU) for 56 days in a completely randomised design. Each dose group was replicated three times with two bucks per replicate. Blood samples were collected weekly from the ear vein for haematological analysis. The results showed that the packed cell volume was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the group receiving 15.0 IU (33.45 ± 1.00%) compared to the 22.5 IU (29.33 ± 1.00%), 7.5 IU (29.04 ± 1.00%), and control (28.67 ± 1.00%) groups. Additionally, there was a significant (p<0.05) increase in lymphocyte count in the control group (51.92 ± 1.81%) compared to the 7.5 IU (49.34 ± 1.81%), 15.0 IU (45.83 ± 1.81%), and 22.5 IU (43.25 ± 1.81%) groups. Regarding body weight, there was a significantly (p<0.05) higher average weight gain (0.79 ± 0.03 kg) and final weight gain (2.20 ± 0.03 kg) observed in bucks treated with 22.5 IU of Menogon. These findings indicated that Menogon administration led to a significant increase in rabbit bucks' weight without adverse effects, as haematological parameters remained within normal ranges.

Evaluation of the effects of experimental Salmonella gallinarum infection on the haematology and oxidative stress markers in young pullets

Simeon Chibuko Okafor — 2024-05-02

The effects of Salmonella gallinarum infection on the haematology and oxidative stress (OS) in pullets were evaluated in this study. Fifty 7-week-old pullets were randomly assigned to two groups of 25 pullets per group. The infected pullets were inoculated orally with S.
gallinarum (10⁹ S. gallinarum colony forming units/mL), while uninfected pullets were the controls. Haematological and OS parameters were determined following standard protocols. There was a significant loss (p<0.05) of body weight. The packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, red blood cell (RBC) count and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were significantly lower (p<0.05). In contrast, the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the infected pullets when
compared to the controls. The total white blood cell (TWBC), absolute heterophil, lymphocyte, eosinophil and monocyte counts, of the infected pullets, were significantly higher than that of the controls. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activities of the infected pullets were significantly higher (p<0.05) when compared to the uninfected controls. Absolute heterophil count correlated strongly, positively and significantly with MDA. An association was established between significantly elevated GPx and CAT, which have antioxidant properties, and survival/health improvement indices such as improved weight gain and self-recovery. It was concluded that S. gallinarum infection of pullets caused significant alterations in the haematology, induced OS, and stimulated the body’s antioxidant defence mechanism to elaborate GPx and CAT. This may suggest the use of antioxidants in the treatment of fowl typhoid.

Evaluation of growth performance and morphometric traits of two strains of pullets raised in Obio Akpa, Akwa Ibom State

Idorenyin Meme Sam — 2024-05-02

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of strains on growth performance and morphometric traits of two strains of commercial pullets (Isa brown and Nera black). A total of 90 chicks (45 chicks per strain) were purchased from a reputable hatchery. Each strain was further replicated three times with 15 birds per replicate. Growth performance and morphometric trait measurements were determined from 0 – 10 weeks of age. The growth performance traits studied were body weight (BW), weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). The morphometric traits measured were body length (BL), wing length (WL), shank length (SL), breast girth (BG) and neck length (NL). Data obtained were subjected to an independent t-test using the SPSS package. The results indicated that BW and other growth performance traits (FI, WG and FCR) were significantly influenced (p<0.05) by the strain of pullets. Nera black pullets consistently had higher BW, WG, FI and FCR than Isa brown at all ages studied. However, morphometric traits were not affected by strains. It was also indicated in the study that regardless of strain, BW and all morphometric traits increased in mean values with the advancing age of the birds. Nera
black was identified as having better BW because it had the highest mean value in BW and other performance traits and could be recommended to farmers for an increase in productivity.