bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combinatorial Effect of Process Parameters on the Rate of Biogas Production and Rate of Substrate Degradation Following Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste and Rumen Content
Authors: Amoo A. O. , Ahmed S. , Haruna A.
Published: April 2023

In this study, the combinatorial effect of process parameters on the rate of biogas production and rate of substrate degradation following anaerobic digestion of food waste and rumen content using mixture design (Combined I-optimal) within the Design Expert (version 13) environment. Results showed that the rate of biogas production, rate of bio-methane production and rate of substrate degradation inside the 100 bio-digesters ranged from 0 to 38.04 L/Kg VS, 0 to 23.14 L/Kg VS and 0 to 79.20 %, respectively. The highest rate of biogas production (38.04 L/Kg VS), highest rate of bio-methane production (23.14 L/Kg VS) and highest rate of substrate degradation (79.20 %) were observed in bio-digester 57 at food waste (0.30 kg), rumen content (0.30 kg), water content (0.40 kg), temperature (34.0oC), pH (9.0), number bio-digester of agitation per day (4 time/day) and retention time (32 days), respectively. The rate of biogas/bio-methane production and rate of substrate degradation can vary, with varying process factors/parameters in anaerobic digestion processes. Bio-digesters with anaerobic co-digestion of the food waste and rumen content appeared to be significantly more productive in terms of biogas/bio-methane production rate and substrate degradation rate compared to the bio-digesters with anaerobic mono-digestion of either food waste or rumen content regardless of the presence other process factors/parameters within the boundaries of this investigation.
Trauma-related oral lesions; Angina bullosa haemorrhagica: a rare case presentation
Authors: Satici Merve Osoydan , İslam Mehmet Muzaffer , Aksel Gokhan , Eroglu Serkan Emre
Published: April 2023

Angina bullosa haemorrhgica is a relatively uncommon condition characterized by blood-filled subepithelial lesions in the oral mucosa that is idiopathic and not caused by a systemic disease or a hemostatic abnormality. Middle-aged and elderly patients are usually affected and lesions heal spontaneously without scarring. A rapidly expanding hemorrhagic blister in the oropharynx can induce upper airway obstruction, so recognizing the lesion as soon as possible is essential. Because of its rarity, we wanted to highlight a 42-year-old male patient who presented with hemorrhagic bullae associated with insignificant local trauma in the oral mucosa and to emphasize that Angina bullosa haemorrhagica is a rare but recognizable lesion that clinicians should be aware of.
The Integration of vertical and horizontal programmes for health systems strengthening in Malawi: a case study
Authors: Sakala Joseph J. , Chimatiro Chancy S. , Salima Racheal , Kapachika Arnold , Kalepa Josephine , Stones William
Published: April 2023

A challenge for the health system in Malawi is that funding allocation is heavily influenced by donor priorities. As a result, mandated routine elements of service delivery may not be fully offered owing to lack of resources or programmatic priority. Integration of currently active ‘vertical’ programmes (those focused on a specific priority disease entity) into existing ‘horizontal’ services (meaning provision across the range of clinical and public health need) has potential to improve access and quality of service delivery for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) in Malawi.

We identified and tabulated the main vertical funding streams currently available in Malawi and identified where these could intersect with existing horizontal health sector programmes in order to strengthen RMNCAH. We have indicated how each of the main vertical programmatic components can be adapted and integrated to support broader system strengthening within RMNCAH focusing especially on drug and commodity procurement, supply chain logistics, health facility and equipment maintenance/upgrading, health service activity data systems, human resources for ‘front line’ RMNCAH provision, as well as community engagement and mobilization.

By circumventing the various limitations of vertical programmes in the delivery of health services in the country, they would complement existing funding streams rather than operating in a vacuum as independent activities. We therefore recommend the integration of horizontal and existing vertical programmes in order to improve RMNCAH in Malawi.
The 2022 Malawi Polio outbreak
Authors: Chunda Penjani , Chisema Mike N. , Mwale Annie , Kambalame Dzinkambani , Mapemba Daniel , Muula Adamson S.
Published: April 2023

After 30 years of no polio cases reported in Malawi, on 17th February 2022, the government declared a polio outbreak following a confirmed 4-year-old child case of the disease in the nation’s capital, Lilongwe.

This was the first case of wild poliovirus in Africa in more than five years after Africa was declared free of indigenous wild polio in August 2020. Laboratory analysis showed that the strain detected in Malawi was linked to that which had been circulating in Sindh Province of Pakistan.
An audit of Heart failure management among ambulatory adult patients at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH), Malawi
Authors: Mwabutwa Emmanuel S. , Kateta Steve , Kinley Louis , Ulemu Tadala , Goodson Patrick , Muula Adamson  S. , Kumwenda Johnstone
Published: April 2023

Background

There are limited data on the clinical characteristics and use of guideline directed medical therapy among patients with heart failure in Malawi. We conducted a study to assess patient characteristics and clinical management given to heart failure patients at Queen Elizabeth Central hospital in Malawi.

Methods

In a cross sectional study, patients with a diagnosis of heart failure who were followed up in the adult chest clinic at QECH were recruited to ascertain their characteristics and the therapy they were receiving. Echocardiograms and electrocardiograms were performed to identify abnormalities.

Results

A total of 79 patients were recruited and 62% (49 out of 79) were female. The median age was 60 years (IQR 40.5-70.5). Most patients were hypertensive with NYHA (New York Heart Association) class I and II symptoms. Left ventricular(LV) systolic dysfunction was found in 55% (36 out of 65), with 68% (39 out of 65) having features of left ventricular remodeling. Most patients were on at least a single neurohormonal drug with 77% (61 out of 79) on ACEI (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor), 52% (42 out of 79) on a beta blocker and 34%(27 out of 79) on aldosterone antagonists. The recommended doses of medications were achieved in 14% (9 out 61), 24% (10 out 42), 22% (6 out of 27) on ACEI, beta blockers and aldosterone antagonists respectively.

Conclusions

Hypertension is the commonest comorbidity in patients with heart failure, who are mostly females with NYHA class I or II symptoms. Most had LV remodeling changes and are on at least one neurohormonal antagonist but most remain sub optimally treated.
Anaesthesia management for cleft lip in a child with unrepaired Tetralogy of Fallot in Malawi: a case report
Authors: Pascal Furaha Nzanzu Blaise , Anusa Beauty , Chikumbanje Stella , Pollach Gregor
Published: April 2023

Background

Children with clefts lips often present with cardiac abnormalities, among them the tetralogy of Fallot. Anaesthesia for patients with unrepaired Tetralogy of Fallot coming for a non-cardiac surgery represents an additional risk of increased perioperative morbidity and mortality.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 8 years old boy with unrepaired Tetralogy of Fallot scheduled for cleft lip repair. The Child was referred to Mercy James Centre for Paediatric Surgery and Intensive Care from an Operation Smile Mission campaign. Anaesthesia consisted of a balanced general anaesthesia combined with regional anaesthesia by an infraorbital nerve block. The child developed hypercyanotic spells postoperatively which were successfully managed with noradrenaline, morphine, fluid, and oxygen therapy.

Conclusion

Children with unrepair Tetralogy of Fallot coming for non-cardiac surgery have increased risk of complications during anaesthesia. The anaesthesia provider should be aware and ready to manage them promptly.
Perceived Stress and Stressors among Undergraduate Medical Students of a Nigerian Institution
Authors: Okoye Ogochukwu Chinedum
Published: April 2023

AimTo identity stressors and measure the intensity of stress perceived by clinical students in a Nigerian institution.MethodsThis study was a cross-sectional study of fifth and sixth-year medical students using the 40-item Medical Student Stressor Questionnaire(MSSQ). Students marked their responses to each of the 40 questions on a Likert scale ranging from-causing no stress at all (0) tocausing severe stress (4)ResultsThe median stress scores for the six domains were as follows: Academic related stressor (ARS)- 2.1, Teaching and Learning relatedstress (TLRS)-1.29, Desire related stressors (DRS)- 1.00, Group activities related stressors (GARS)- 1.00, Social related stressor (SRS)– 0.83, and Interpersonal related stressor (IRS)- 0.57. Overall, ARS was perceived to cause high-level stress in 51.6%, and severe stressin 7.8% of students. Specifically, ‘Heavy workload’ and ‘large amount of content to be learnt’ caused severe stress in 45.3% and 40.6%of students respectively. Skipping meals was frequent and associated with high stress scores in IRS, SRS and GRS domains.ConclusionAcademic related stressors cause high-severe stress among a considerable proportion of medical students studied, while interpersonalrelated stress caused mild stress. ‘Heavy workload’, ‘Tests/Examinations’, and ‘lack of time to review what has been learnt’ are somemajor stressors identified. Universities need to prioritise accessibility to healthy meals, improved students’ living environment, provisionof psychological support and formal training on time management and other soft skills, to reduce stress and promote better academicperformance. There may be a need to review medical students’ curriculum to prioritise relevance over breadth of content.
Awareness and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines and associated factors among pharmacy students in Zambia
Authors: Mudenda Steward , Mukosha Moses , Hikaambo Christabel Nang’andu , Meyer Johanna Catharina , Fadare Joseph , Kampamba Martin , Kalungia Aubrey Chichonyi , Munsaka Sody , Okoro Roland Nnaemeka , Daka Victor , Chileshe Misheck , Mfune Ruth Lindizyani , Mufwambi Webrod , Witika Bwalya Angel , Godman Brian
Published: April 2023

AimThis study aimed to assess the awareness and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines and associated factors among pharmacy studentsin Zambia.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study among 326 undergraduate pharmacy students in Lusaka, Zambia, from February to April 2021.Data were analysed using Stata version 16.1. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine key factors influencing vaccineacceptance.ResultsOf the 326 participants, 98.8% were aware of the COVID-19 vaccines, but only 24.5% would accept vaccination. Compared to otherreligions, being of Christian faith was associated with reduced odds of awareness of the COVID-19 vaccine (aOR=0.01, 95% CI:0.01-0.20). Conversely, factors associated with vaccine acceptance were being male, single and unemployed. Compared to females,male respondents were 86% more likely to accept the vaccine if it was made available (aOR=1.86, 95% CI: 1.10-3.14). In addition,unmarried respondents were 2.65 times as likely to accept vaccination than married respondents (aOR=2.65, 95% CI: 1.06-6.63).Conversely, unemployed respondents were less likely to accept vaccination than their employed counterparts (aOR=0.32, 95% CI:0.16-0.46). Barriers to the acceptability of the vaccine were possible side effects (78.5%) and scepticism about its effectiveness(10.2%).ConclusionThere was significant vaccine hesitancy toward COVID-19 vaccines among Zambian pharmacy students despite their awarenessof the vaccines. Health authorities must work collaboratively with training institutions to mitigate vaccine hesitancy, especially withhealthcare students being a key part of the future healthcare workforce overseeing disease prevention strategies.
The paradox of Malawi’s health workforce shortage: pragmatic and unpopular decisions are needed
Authors: S. Muula Adamson
Published: April 2023

Malawi (2023) is experiencing significant health challenges resulting from lack of access to potable water, sanitation and hygiene, consequences of the effects of Cyclone Freddy and a critical shortage of in-post skilled human resources. The country has been battling a cholera outbreak since April 2022 which has claimed at least 1,733 lives as at 10th April 2023. All the country’s districts have been affected with 57,414 cases reported nationwide by 10th April. This figure is obviously an underestimate as many people who experience symptoms do not access the formal health system. They therefore remain unrecorded. There is no reason to believe that the outbreak is under control as deaths continue to be recorded each week.
A woman with focal neurological deficit following treatment for cholera
Authors: Kumwenda Johnstone J , Daire Arthur , Mkwinda Olive , Nazombe Noel , Mwale Atupele , Makhumba Glory , Musasa Samantha , Limani Fumbani
Published: April 2023

A 41-year old woman was treated for cholera at one of the health centers in Blantyre. Two days after discharge from the treatment unit, she developed weakness of all 4 limbs and difficulties with speech. She was referred to the Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital. A CT scan of the brain showed hypodense lesions in the pons. A diagnosis of central pontine myelinolysis was made. She recovered slowly and was discharged from hospital 17 days after admission.
Letter to the Editor: Management of sigmoid volvulus during labor: a challenging situation
Authors: Atamanalp Sabri Selcuk , Disci Esra , Peksoz Rifat , Atamanalp Refik Selim , Atamanalp Cansu Tatar
Published: April 2023

We read the article written by Belhaddad and Souabni1 on sigmoid volvulus (SV) during pregnancy and delivery. We practice in an endemic region for SV, Eastern Anatolia. For this reason, our SV series, which involves 1,051 patients encountered over 56 year-period (from June 1966 to July 2022), is the most extensive single-center SV series in the world. In this way, we would like to share our ideas on SV associated with pregnancy or delivery.
Indications, risk factors, and outcomes of emergency peripartum hysterectomy: A 7-year retrospective study at a tertiary center in Turkey
Authors: Vural Tayfun , Bayraktar Burak , Karaca Suna Yildirim , Golbasi Ceren , Odabas Ozan , Taner Cuneyt Eftal
Published: April 2023

ObjectiveTo determine the incidence, indications, the risk factors, complications, maternal morbidity and mortality of emergency peripartum hysterectomy (EPH), and perinatal outcomes at a tertiary hospital, Turkey.Methods We analyzed 71 cases of EPH from 2012 to 2019 at a tertiary hospital in a retrospective study. There were 142 control patients.Results There were 71 EPH out of 69,504 deliveries, for an overall incidence of 1.02 per 1000 births. The main indication for peripartum hysterectomy was abnormal placentation (67.6%), followed by uterine atony (28.1%), and uterine rupture (4.2%). Cesarean section (CS) and previous CS are major risk indicators for EPH. Other risk indicators are advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years) and multiparity. All patients with abnormal placentation had a previous CS. 93% of EPH were performed during and/or after CS, and 7% after vaginal delivery. 69% of EPH were made in total and 31% were subtotal. The three most common maternal morbidity included: wound infection and febrile morbidity (26.7%), bladder injury (16.9%), and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (11.2%). There were no maternal deaths but perinatal mortality was 4%.ConclusionThe most common indication for EPH was abnormal placentation. Also, CS and previous CS are major risk factors of EPH. Other risk factors for EPH are advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years) and multiparity. Moreover, all unnecessary CS should be avoided.
Demographic characteristics, clinical presentation and in-hospital outcome among patients with Covid-19 in a Nigerian tertiary hospital
Authors: Mmerem Juliet I. , Unigwe Uche S. , Chukwu Kyrian S. , Ezenwosu Ifeyinwa. L. , Okorie Geofrey O. , Chika-Igwenyi Nneka M. , Nwatu Chidinma B. , Onodugo Obinna D.
Published: April 2023

BackgroundWe described the demographic/clinical characteristics and in-hospital outcome of patients with COVID-19 at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) during the first wave to inform evidence-based responses during subsequent waves in Africa. MethodologyWe conducted retrospective cohort analyses of adult patients ≥18 years with PCR or GeneXpert-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data was extracted from patients’ medical records from 1st May to 30th September 2020. Based on disease severity, patients were either hospitalized (82) or managed at home (90). Logistic regression and cox-proportional hazard models were used to determine predictors of severe COVID-19 disease and in-hospital mortality, respectively. ResultsOf 172 cases, 113 (65.7%) were males, and the mean age was 45 ± 19 years. The majority were urban dwellers (72.1%), 19.8% had a positive history of contact with a confirmed/suspected case, 15.7% were healthcare workers while 68 (39.5%) had co-morbidities. Symptomatic patients comprised 73.3% of cases. Fever (p=0.02) and breathlessness (p=0.03) were commoner in males while diarrhoea (p<0.01) was predominant in females. On multivariate analysis, severe COVID-19 was predicted by the presence of co-morbidity (AOR= 14.44, 95% C.I= 4.79- 43.58, p <0.001)and prior antibiotic/antimalarial use (AOR= 6.35, 95% C.I= 2.24- 18.05, p =0.001) while being a non-healthcare worker (AOR= 0.18, 95% C.I= 0.04-0.78, p=0.02) was protective. However, none of the variables assessed predicted in-hospital mortality.Conclusion Our findings underscore the contributions of demographic variables in COVID-19 transmission and gender differences in clinical presentation. Underlying comorbidity likewise prior antimicrobial use increased the likelihood of severe COVID-19. The absence of mortality predictors in our study may be related to the relatively small number of deaths. Further studies are recommended to unravel the predominance of severe disease in healthcare workers.
Evaluation of CD4 Count, Haemoglobin, and Intestinal Parasites Status of Cancer Patients Receiving Oncology Therapy in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Otu-Bassey I.B. , Inah O.I. , Omang P.A.
Published: April 2023

Cancer is a human cellular error with a high mortality rate, especially in developing regions. Resolving this error with therapy may render patients  immunologically depressed and susceptible to opportunistic infections including parasitic. The gut parasites, Cluster of Differentiation four (CD4) cells  and haemoglobin (Hb) levels of cancer patients on oncology therapy in Calabar, Nigeria were studied. Stool and blood samples were collected from 317  (186 cancer and 131 apparently healthy) subjects. Parasites were identified using direct smear and formol ether concentration techniques while CD4 and  Hb estimation were done using BD-fascount and fluorescent flow cytometric techniques, respectively. Data were analysed using chi-square and  independent sample t-test. Overall parasitosis prevalence in this study was (27.44%) with cancer showing an association with intestinal parasitosis  (P=0.001) and CD4 level (P=0.002), respectively but none with Hb level. Parasiteinfected cancer subjects had significantly lower mean haemoglobin  concentration than their non-infected counterpart (t = - 4.869, P<0.001). Generally, cancer subjects on cancer treatment had an insignificantly lower  parasite and significantly lower CD4 levels compared to their non-treated counterpart (P = 0.829) and (P<0.001), respectively but their mean haemoglobin  levels were similar (P=0.701). Cancer subjects on chemotherapy alone had significantly higher parasite prevalence, 50.00% compared to 28.95% for those  on combined (surgery and chemotherapy) treatment (P=0.014), whereas the type of treatment showed no significant effect on CD4 and Hb levels.  Parasite occurrence was only pronounced (71.43%) among subjects with >12 months of treatment duration (P=0.1038). There was a correlation between  duration of treatment and CD4 levels (r = - 0.231, P<0.05) but none with haemoglobin levels (r = 0.024, P>0.05) of cancer subjects. In conclusion, although  this study has shown that cancer as a condition increases parasite prevalence and reduces mean CD4 counts in subjects, their haemoglobin levels were  not significantly affected, except for subjects with intestinal parasite infections. Treatment with cancer therapy did not also affect the haemoglobin  concentration, but significantly reduced the CD4 cell number of subjects. Subjects who had majorly, chemotherapy were mostly infected with the parasite  but with no noticeable effect on their CD4 and haemoglobin levels. A prolonged duration of treatment increased parasitosis and reduced the  CD4 level of subjects but did not affect haemoglobin levels. Apart from the oncological treatments given to cancer subjects, management of cancer  subjects should include parasitological examination and treatment, periodic monitoring of their hematologic profile and regular immune revitalization  procedures, especially for those placed on prolonged therapy.
Intestinal parasitic infections among HIV/AIDS patients in relation to ART adherence in Nigeria
Authors: Udeh E.O. , Obiezue R.N.N. , Ikele C.B. , Otuu C.A. , Okoye, I.C. , Eke S.S. , Okafor F.C. , Goselle O.N. , Jwanle P. , Iheanacho N.S. , Abba P.O. , Amali N.M.
Published: April 2023

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) cause morbidity among HIV-infected individuals. Poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) affects treatment  outcomes, especially in low-middle-income countries. The study evaluated the prevalence of IPI among HIV patients in relation to ART adherence  between May and November 2017. Ethical approval and consent were obtained from the ethical review committee of the Benue State Ministry of Health  and patients respectively. Patients’ clinical records were reviewed, and ART adherence status was obtained from the adherence assessment cards.  Participants were given two labelled sterile containers for stool samples. Direct wet mount of samples was prepared in normal saline to identify  helminths ova and larvae. Samples were further processed using parasite concentrators. Slides were stained with Lugol’s iodine, modified Ziehl-Neelsen  acid-fast and Giemsa and subsequently examined under a light microscope using x10 and x40 objectives. Data were analysed using the chi-square test  and SPSS version 22. Of the 757 patients, females constituted 57.7% (n=437). Good adherence rate (>95%) was 61.9% (n=469). More females (n=301,  64.2%) than males (n=168, 35.8%) had good adherence status. IPI rate among ART patients was 16.4% (n=124). Entamoeba histolytica (n=5, 1.0%), Giardia  lamblia (n=3, 0.6%) and Taenia sp. (n=8, 1.7%) were IPI seen among good adherence patients, and as single infections without diarrhoea. IPI was  significant (p<0.05) among poor adherence patients (37.5%, n=108) compared to good adherence patients (3.4%, n=16). IPI were significant among  females; 1.9% (n=9) in the good adherence group and 19.8% (n=57) in the poor adherence group. Cryptosporidium parvum (n=20, 6.9%), E. histolytica  (n=15, 5.2%), E. coli (n=11, 3.8%), G. lamblia (n=10, 3.5%) and Taenia sp. (n=10, 3.5%) accounts for significant rates of infections among patients with poor  adherence, with multiple infections and associated diarrhoea seen in 10 (3.5%) of them. Routine monitoring of HIV/AIDS patients for IPI by healthcare  providers is necessary. Coinfected patients with poor ART adherence should be routinely screened for IPI and promptly treated. Antiparasitic drugs  should be provided as prophylaxis along with ART, to enhance their overall treatment outcome.
Assessment of Plasmodium falciparum Resistance to Artemisinin Among Attendees of Selected Health Facilities in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwibani C.P. , Azuonwu O. , Abbey S.D. , Wokem G.N.
Published: April 2023

Across-sectional research, aimed at evaluating artemisinin drug resistance in falciparum malaria patients attending selected health facilities in Rivers  State, Nigeria, was done between July 2019 and March 2020. The selected hospitals were Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH), University of  Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and Model Primary Health Centre (MPHC), Iriebe, all in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study population was 1000  subjects with an overall malaria prevalence of 25.5%, the number of enrolled participants from RSUTH was 494 with the highest infection rate of 32.5%,  300 from UPTH which had the least (11%) prevalence, while 206 were from MPHC, Iriebe with 29.6% prevalence accordingly. Blood samples were collected  from these subjects by phlebotomy method. Plasmodium falciparum parasite was determined by microscopy using thick and thin blood films  stained with Giemsa staining technique. Artemisinin resistance markers were assessed using the nested polymerase chain reaction method. The study  population consisted of children, pregnant women, and other adults of both sexes. Out of the forty-seven isolates assayed for K13 and ATPase 6 genes,  who carried the artemisinin-sensitive wild-type allele, none of these isolates exhibited both ATPase 6 and Kelch -13 resistance genes/mutations hence no  single nucleotide polymorphism was observed. This suggests that this part of the country is not under the threat of artemisinin resistance. However, this  should not undermine the need for continuous monitoring and surveillance of the response of P. falciparum to Artemisinin and Artemisinin combination  therapy (ACTs) in River State.
Relative Productivity of Mosquito Larval Habitats for Abundance and Immature stages Distribution in Relation to Physicochemical Properties in Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: Shehu I.K. , Bawa S.M. , Mohammed A. , Yakudima I.I. , Hasber S.
Published: April 2023

Immature mosquitoes were evaluated for the productivity of the breeding habitats using field cages in Niger State. Mosquitoes were sampled weekly  both outside and inside field experimental cages by dipping and emptying the cages in a bowl container and identified using microscope-guided  standard morphological keys. Three genera namely, Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex, were encountered and the mean immature abundance rate (IAR), in  gutters, follows decreasing order and dominated by Culex (93.16±10.79%) > Anopheles (17.79±2.23%) > Aedes (15.77±2.12 %). In swamps, Anopheles  highest mean (78.04±8.00%), followed by Culex (28.13±2.55%) and Aedes(14.54±1.56%). Similarly, in large water bodies, the distribution decreases as;  Anopheles (74.33±7.07%)> Culex (27.14±2.50%)>Aedes (12.91±1.30%). In terms of immature productivity rate (IPR) among the three genera, Culex had the  highest mean in gutters (191.29±22.37%) followed by Anopheles in large waters and swamps (148.03±14.81% and 153.15±15.92%) while lowest was  Aedes (25.57±2.42%) in large water. Furthermore, for the density of immature, 1st stage (L1) recorded the highest followed by 2nd stage (L2), followed by  3rd stage (L3), and the least was the 4th stage (L4) for IAR and IPR. For the estimation of breeding habitats, the cage sampling method is the most  reliable (709.86±73.63 mosquitoes) when compared with dipping techniques that recorded 324.06±44.00 mosquitoes. Mosquito physicochemical  conditions varied significantly with DO (8.83±0.40) in large water bodies; nitrate (4.57±0.55), phosphate (3.26±0.73), calcium (88.19±12.79), sulphur  (28.23±2.45), potassium (10.63±0.76), chlorine (87.52±20.89) and alkalinity (187.00±26.39) in the gutters. However, a positive correlation between rainfall  and mosquito species (r = 0.523 to 0.801) as well as between relative humidity and mosquitoes (r= 0.236 to 0.551, p>0.05) on mosquito populations. Only    Anopheles in large water habitats was significant (0.801*, p>0.05). The findings revealed disparities in the abundance and larval habitat production  rates of the mosquito genera and associated positively with some physicochemical and metrological cues. Consequently, an effective tactic must be  developed for mosquito control, particularly in the most highly recognized breeding habitats.
Prevalence of Sarcocystis Species in Naturally Infected Ruminants and Pigs in Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Obadiah H.I. , Byanet O. , Okoh M.E. , Ogbole M.O. , Vambe A.H. , Ede V.A. , Asuwe U.L. , Igbe J.P. , Yina M.D. , Onum V.O. , Odaji C.E. , Imoni J.Z. , Okopi B.E. , Igbalumun A.M. , Ikyausu K.M. , Atu B.O. , Omudu E.A.
Published: April 2023

Sarcocystosis is a neglected food-borne disease, which affects domesticated and commercialized animals such as cattle, pigs and goats and is of public health concern. This study was carried out during the dry season, to investigate the prevalence of Sarcocystis species in Benue State. One thousand two hundred (1200) tissue samples, comprising of tongue, oesophagus, heart and skeletal muscle were collected randomly from five hundred (500) cattle, five hundred (500) goats and two hundred (200) pigs, respectively. Their ages ranged from <2 to > 2 years, both males and females. A gross examination of the four organs was performed to detect macrocysts. The samples were subsequently, preserved in 10% formalin for histological processing and staining using haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain. The processed tissues were examined under a microscope, to detect microcysts. The results showed that there were no macrocysts in the tissues by observation with the naked eye. However, microscopic results showed Sarcocysts shapes of two distinct types: elongated or fusiform and oval with high intensity of up to 17 cysts in a sample. Of the 1200 tissues, 220 (18.33%) were infected with Sarcocystis species. The infection rate in the animals showed that cattle and goats were 91 (18.20%) each and pigs 38 (19.00%), with no significant difference (P=0.97). Also, there was no significant difference in sex, tissues, breed, and location (P>0.05), but the infection was significantly associated with the age of the animals (P<0.05) when analysed generally. Parameters such as location in cattle and pigs (P=0.04) and age in goats (0.0002) were significantly associated with infection. The results indicate that Sarcocystisspecies infection is widely distributed in animals slaughtered for meat in Benue State. We, therefore, suggest that further studies on molecular analysis be conducted to identify species of Sarcocystis that may be of economic and zoonotic importance, to provide better control strategies in this region.
Prevalence of Giardia lamblia Infection among Pupils and Students from Selected Schools in Nsukka Metropolis, Enugu State
Authors: Onah I.E. , Nwafor O.E. , Okwor J.I. , Eze S.C. , Haruna S.A. , Ugwuanyi N.F.
Published: April 2023

Globally, Giardia lamblia is the most common intestinal protozoa parasite with about 200 million yearly infections in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The  parasite is common in third-world countries with poor living conditions. The current surge in terrorism across Nigeria has forced people to migrate into  relatively peaceful regions and Nsukka has been one of the cities in Nigeria that have witnessed the influx of migrants. This migration aids the spread of  G. lamblia and thus puts the public health of the inhabitants of Nsukka metropolis at risk. The current state of G. lamblia infection in Nsukka metropolis is  not known and this knowledge gap hampers effective planning by public health officers and policymakers to safeguard the public health of the  inhabitants. The objectives of this study were to provide information on the prevalence of G. lamblia infection among pupils and students from selected  schools within Nsukka metropolis and to provide data on the age group that is more vulnerable to the parasitic infection among the studied population  for public health campaign against the parasite. Faecal samples were collected from 170 individuals from five different schools. The faecal samples were  examined for G. lamblia under the microscope using formol-ether concentration and direct smear methods. The prevalence of G. lamblia is 38.2%. The  prevalence is higher in males (40.3%) than in females (36.7%). El-Shaddai Nursery and Primary School (ENPS) and University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)  recorded the highest prevalence of 53.3% each. Children in the age groups 3 - 7 years had the highest prevalence of 66.7%. Giardia lamblia is widespread  among children and university students in Nsukka metropolis.
Prevalence of Antimalaria-Drug-Resistant-Plasmodium-falciparum Mutant Genes in Out-Patients from a Malaria Endemic Region in Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Oniya M.O. , Obimakinde E.T. , Simon-Oke I.A. , Afolabi O.J. , Adeogun A.O. , Oyeniyi T.A .
Published: April 2023

The research identified, ipso facto, Pfcrt gene SNP at codons 72&76 and Pfmdr1 gene SNPs at codons 86 &184 and 1034,1042 &1246 from malaria  patients in Ifedore Local Government Area (LGA) in Ondo State, Nigeria. Thick blood film microscopy was used to examine blood samples from 2,063  febrile malaria patients within the study area. Four hundred positive samples were used to make Dry Blood Spots (DBS) on Whatman No.3 paper. The  parasite DNAwas extracted from the DBS samples using spin column-based DNA purification kit. Identification and genotyping of the Pfcrt and Pfmdr1  mutant genes of the parasite were done using Nested PCR method. Molecular analysis of the 400 positive samples yielded 352 positive results after  testing with various plasmodia markers with only Plasmodium falciparum detected in the study area. Results obtained from genotyping the mutant  genes showed that of all the 352 P. falciparum isolates examined, Pfmdr1 SNP at codons 86&184 recorded the highest prevalence (11.08%), followed by  Pfmdr1 SNP at codon 1034,1042&1246 (7.95%) while Pfcrt SNPat codon 72&76 recorded the lowest prevalence (3.41%). A prevalence of 19.32%  coexistence of the three SNPs of the mutant genes was observed among the study population (p<0.05). The existence of the Pfcrt and Pfmdr1 mutant  genes suggests resistance of P. falciparum to most malaria drugs used in the treatment of malaria in the study area. Therefore, it is important to monitor  resistance to treatment regimens and therapeutics to aid the management of malaria in endemic areas.
Human Water Contact Behaviour and Schistosoma haematobium Infection among Almajiri School Children in Kurfi Local Government Area of Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Abbas U. , Eberemu N.C. , Orpin J.B. , Kaware M.S.
Published: April 2023

Urinary schistosomiasis is caused by a parasitic flatworm (Schistosoma haematobium) commonly called blood fluke which infects humans and causes  public health problems. The study was conducted to determine the current status of human water contact behaviour and Schistosoma haematobium  infection among Almajiri school children in Kurfi local area of Katsina State, Nigeria. Questionnaires were administered to 367 randomly selected Almajiris  to assess the risk factors and to identify the relationship between human water contact and the infection of urinary schistosomiasis.  Parasitological analysis was also used to determine the prevalence and intensity of infection among the Almajiri. Out of 367 sampled tested 161 were  positive. The prevalence is significantly higher in Kofar Yamma Almajiri School with 51(47.66%) when compared to other schools and there is no  significant relationship between human water contact and the infection in the study area due to the absence of intermediate host snail found in the  study area.
Yeast cell wall supplementation modulates pre-weaning stress in male Nili Ravi buffalo calves
Authors: Raza M. , Yousaf M.S. , Rashid M.A. , Maqsood A. , Azam B. , Mustafa R. , Ahmad S. , Khalid A. , Naseem M. , Rehman H.U.
Published: April 2023

The effects of yeast cell wall (YCW) supplementation on growth performance, cell-mediated immune response, blood metabolites, and health scores in early-weaned male buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves were evaluated. Forty Nili Ravi buffalo calves were randomly divided into four groups and supplemented with four dietary treatments, namely control (animals without prebiotics), YCW-2 (yeast cell wall fed at 2 g/calf/day), YCW-4 (yeast cell wall fed at 4 g/calf/day), and cMOS-4 (commercial mannan-oligosaccharide fed at 4 g/calf/day). Milk intake, dry matter intake (DMI), and health scores were recorded daily, whereas body weight (body weight) and structural developments (hip height, wither height, heart girth, and body length) were recorded weekly. Feed efficiency and average daily gain (ADG) were calculated at the end of the experiment. Blood samples were collected fortnightly to determine glucose, non-esterified fatty acids, beta-hydroxybutyric acid (βHBA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), catalase, malondialdehyde, creatinine, hepatic enzymes, cholesterol, triglycerides, and total serum protein profile. The cell-mediated immune response was determined by the application of dinitrochlorobenzene directly to the skin. The results of the study revealed that supplementation of YCW and cMOS increased DMI, body weight, feed efficiency, ADG, and structural growth in buffalo calves, whereas faecal scores were significantly improved in supplemented groups compared to the control. Glucose, BUN, and βHBA improved in supplemented animals more than in the control group, indicating bioactivity that contributed to the improvement of gut health. Supplementation with YCW improved the growth performance, physiological responses, and gut health of early-weaned male buffalo calves.
Augmenting broiler diets with essential oils affects growth, intestinal microbiota and morphology, and meat quality
Authors: Bonos E. , Skoufos I. , Giannenas I. , Fotou K. , Sidiropoulou E. , Tsiftsoglou O. , Lazari D. , Galamatis D. , Stylianaki I. , Tzora A.
Published: April 2023

The health and productivity of broiler chickens are related to their intestinal microbiota, which may be influenced by supplemented feed components. This trial intended to evaluate the effects of a dietary mixture of essential oils from oregano (Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum), sage (Salvia triloba L.), and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia L.) on broiler chicken growth performance, intestinal microbiota, intestinal morphology, and meat chemical composition and oxidative stability. A total of 288 one-day-old male Ross-308 chicks were randomly assigned to four treatments with six replicate pens (12 chicks per pen). The chicks of the control treatment were fed typical commercial maize and soybean meal rations in mash form. The rations of the other three treatments were supplemented with a mixture of essential oils at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, respectively. At the end of the trial (day 42), tissue samples were collected for analysis. Major bioactive components of the three essential oils were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Essential oil supplementation increased the radical scavenging capacity and the total phenolic content of the feeds. Performance parameters (weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, European production efficiency factor) were not affected significantly by the supplementation. Intestinal microflora populations (determined by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry) were modified significantly in both the cecum and the jejunum. Breast and thigh meat oxidative stability under refrigerated storage was improved significantly. Additional research is required to elucidate the potential synergistic effects of dietary mixtures of essential oils.
Protected sodium butyrate in chicken diets until 21 days of age improves intestinal development and performance
Authors: Pires M. F. , Leandro N. S. M. , Café M. B. , Carvalho F. B. , Jacob D. V. , Noleto-Mendonça R. A. , Assis S. D. , Martins J. M. S.
Published: April 2023

This study was developed to examine the performance, carcass and cut yields, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal histomorphometry of chickens fed diets supplemented with protected sodium butyrate until 21 days of age. Two experiments were conducted, both of which involved the following treatments: basal diet with inclusion of an antibiotic; basal diet without antibiotic or protected sodium butyrate (PSB; control); basal diet with inclusion of 225 g/t PSB in the pre-starter and starter phases; and basal diet with inclusion of 300 g/t PSB in the pre-starter and starter phases. In the first experiment, 784 male broiler chicks were distributed into the four treatments, with seven replicates of 28 birds, to evaluate performance and carcass and cut yields. In experiment II, 280 male broiler chicks were distributed into the four treatments, with seven replicates of 10 birds, to evaluate intestinal digestibility and histomorphometry. At 42 days of age, the broilers supplemented with 225 g/t PSB had a higher average final weight than the control group. At seven days, the chickens supplemented with 300 g/t PSB exhibited the highest duodenal villus height; those supplemented with 225 or 300g/t PSB or antibiotic showed the greatest jejunal villus height; and those treated with 225 g/t PSB exhibited the highest jejunal villus/crypt ratio. At 21 days of age, the broilers that received 225 g/t PSB showed the highest duodenal and jejunal villus height. The use of protected sodium butyrate in chicken diets up to 21 days of age improves intestinal development and performance until slaughter age.
Effect of yeast peptide dietary supplementation on nutrient digestibility, growth performance, and blood metabolites in geese
Authors: He Hang , Yuan Yancong , Wang Fen , Xiang Bangquan , Zhang Chuanshi , Liao Qinfeng , Lv Yongzhi , Li Longjiao , Zhu Yan , Chen Yaqiang , Yang Yanhui , Liu Anfang , Zhang Ke , Tashi Danzhen , Yang Jiahao , Zhang Jie
Published: April 2023

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of yeast peptide supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood metabolites in geese. One-day-old Sichuan white geese (n = 300, 95.16 ± 1.98 g) were randomly assigned to five dietary treatment groups containing either 0 (control), 100, 200, 300, or 400 mg/kg commercial yeast peptide product. Compared with the control, dietary supplemental yeast peptide at 200 mg/kg substantially improved feed conversion ratio, body slope length, half-eviscerated percentage, and the apparent digestibility of phosphorus. With the increase in dietary yeast peptide, breast width, carcass percentage, serum triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein increased linearly. The average daily gain, pelvis width, half-diving depth, low density lipoprotein, and digestibility of gross energy exhibited quadratic responses with the increase in dietary yeast peptide, with the 200 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg feeding level being the most effective. It can be concluded that dietary supplementation of yeast peptides improves growth performance and affects nutrient digestibility and blood metabolites, which were optimized at 200 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg of yeast peptide in the present study.
Effect of different levels of Labazyme supplementation on production and biochemical traits in quail
Authors: Al-Mjbel A.A. , Mohammed A.B. , Abdlwahid A.S. , Aljumaily T.H. , Mahdi A.M. , Raouf S.M.
Published: April 2023

The study was conducted to determine the effect of different levels of Labazyme (a multi-enzyme with probiotics) on production and biochemical traits in quail. A total of 180 quail were housed in 12 pens; each group was randomly allocated to four replicates (15 hens/replication); Group 1 was designated as the control, Groups 2 and 3 were supplemented with Labazyme at 1000 and 2000 mg/kg, respectively. The addition of Labazyme to the diet substantially increased quail production compared to the control group, and there was a substantial difference in feed intake and improved feed conversion efficiency, with the Labazyme groups generally superior to the control group. The groups did not differ substantially in egg quality parameters. The economic analysis indicated that Labazyme groups were substantially different to the control group. Globulin, total protein, and alkaline phosphatase were substantially reduced, whereas lipid profiles were reduced in Labazyme groups compared to the control. The glutathione level was increased and a decrease in malondialdehyde levels was observed in all groups. In addition, there were no substantial differences in aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase in either group. Labazyme can be used in quail feed as a feed additive to improve egg production and reduce lipid profiles.
Effects of oregano essential oil and capsicum extract supplementation on slaughter characteristics, meat quality, and fatty acid composition of lambs
Authors: Ünlü H.B. , İpçak H.H. , Kandemir Ç.
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oregano essential oil (OEO) and capsicum oleoresin extract (CAO) supplementation on lamb slaughter  characteristics, meat quality, and fatty acid composition. In the study, 18 male and 18 female lambs were divided into three equal groups for a 56- day  feeding period. The first group was fed the control diet, while the other groups were fed a control diet containing either 300 mg OEO/kg or 300 mg  CAO/kg of diet. Feeding OEO or CAO had no effect on the slaughter and carcass quality of the fattening lambs. However, when compared to the female  lambs, the male lambs were found to have higher slaughter weights, hot and cold carcass weights, and dressing percentage, while having lower back fat  thickness. In addition, OEO substantially increased the intramuscular fat. Dry matter, protein, pH24, meat colour (L*, a*, and b*), drip loss, and cooking  loss were not affected by dietary treatment or sex. The addition of OEO or CAO to the diets did not change the meat lipid oxidation or sensory quality  characteristics at different storage times. However, meat from the female lambs was found to have thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values  lower than that of the meat from the male lambs after 2 d and 4 d of storage. However, the female lamb meat was more preferred in terms of flavour and  general acceptance. The ΣMUFA, ΣPUFA, ΣUFA, Σn-6, Σn-3, and Σn-6/Σn-3 contents of the lamb meat were not affected by the dietary treatment. As a  result, the inclusion of 300 mg of oregano essential oil/kg of DM in lamb diets is considered appropriate because of its significant contributions to the fat  composition of lamb meat.