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Background: To develop a probiotic formulation for poultry feed, a few poultry gastrointestinal derived lactic acid bacteria (pGIT-d-LAB) were isolated from chicken intestinal specimens and in vitro experiment was performed to evaluate their efficacy as potential probiotic candidate. Methods: A total of 6 strains of LAB: Lactobacillus brevis (L. brevis), Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), Lactobacillus casei (L. casei), Pediococci spp, Lactobacillus fermentum (L. fermentum) and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) were isolated and cultured for collection of Cell Free Supernatant (CFS). CFS collected was tested against pathogenic bacterial isolated from chicken feces as well as prevalent fungal pathogens, utilizing agar-well diffusion techniques. A preliminary investigation into the susceptibility of the pathogens to diverse antibiotics and antifungal drugs was conducted. Bacterial pathogens exhibiting resistance to a minimum of three classes of antibiotics were subsequently identified for pGIT-d-LAB CFS screening. Results: The observed results revealed that the CFS derived from the isolates exhibited varying degrees of growth inhibition against different pathogens. Among the tested pGIT-d-LAB isolates, L. acidophilus demonstrated the most prominent zone of inhibition, measuring 18 mm against Klebsiella pneumoniae ZTAC 1233. Notably, Citrobac-ter diversus ZTAC 1255 showed resistance to all tested pGIT-d-LAB. Quantification of the metabolites produced was performed, and peak production levels was determined. L. acidophilus produced the highest amount of lactic acid (1.789g/l), Pediococci spp. produced the highest amount of diacetyl and H2O2 (1.918g/l) (0.0025g/l) at 48 hr peak values respectively. Conclusion: The test isolates are potential probiotic candidates for controlling pathogens in poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nigeria ranks second in the global prevalence of diarrhoea with most cases concentrated in the Northern-region of the country. This research explored the antidiarrhoeal efficacy of the hydroethanolic extract of Piliostigma thonningii leaves (HEPTL), locally used to manage diarrhoeal conditions in Kebbi State, Nigeria. P. thonningii leaves were screened for their secondary metabolites and mineral constituents. Using 3 standard-diarrhoea models, female Wistar rats completely-randomised into six-groups of six animals each were utilised for probing the antidiarrhoeal activity of HEPTL. Animals in groups I and II served as the negative and positive controls, whereas the rats in groups III, IV and V respectively received 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight-(bw) of HEPTL. Six secondary metabolites and eight minerals were found in the extract, with flavonoids and calcium being the most abundant while steroids and zinc were the least prevalent, respectively. High performance liquid chromatographic analysis revealed the presence of 19 bioactive substances. Furthermore, there was a significant (p<0.05) and dose-related reduction in diarrhoea onset, water content, and wet faeces count. Similarly, the amount of intestinal fluid and average distance traversed by the charcoal-meal were decreased dose-dependently by the HEPTL with a commensurate rise in the suppression of intestinal fluid accrual and peristalsis. Acetylcholinesterase, Na+/K+-ATPase, reduced glutathione, intestinal-alkaline phosphatase and protein levels increased significantly (p<0.05) whereas superoxide-dismutase, catalase, intestinal-nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels all fell significantly (p<0.05). However, the level of intestinal glucose was not significantly altered. Overall, the HEPTL exhibited a profound effect in the alleviation of the severity of diarrhoea, notably at 200 mg/kg bw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) from faecal matter of non-human primates (NHP) and their carriage of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes were investigated in this study. Faecal samples were collected from six accredited zoological and tourism gardens in South-western and Northern Nigeria. Five fluoroquinolone-resistant E. coli were obtained from the 43 NHP sampled. Three of the isolates were from Agodi gardens, Ibadan, and one each from Osun Osogbo grove and University of Ibadan Zoological garden. The isolates were from Green monkeys (3), Mona Monkey (1) and Anubis baboon (1). They showed varying antibiotic resistance levels, with 100% resistance observed only towards sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. None of the isolates was positive for ESBL production. All the isolates carried qnrD, with three each carrying qnrA and qnrS. Only one isolate carried qnrB. The carriage of qnr genes by captive animals could portend serious public health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was undertaken to undertaken to assess the Cryptosporidium burden in cattle in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria. A total of 400 cattle fecal samples were screened for Cryptosporidium oocysts using Safranin-Methylene Blue staining technique. A questionnaire was used to analyze the possible factors driving the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in cattle in the study area. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection was 17.8% (71/400). The prevalence of Cryptosporidium in cattle was highest (32.4%, 22/68) in the Gwagwalada Area Council and lowest (12.1%, 8/66) in AMAC. There was a significant difference in prevalence of Cryptosporidium in cattle in the Area Councils (P= 0.010 < 0.005). There was a statistical difference in prevalence of Cryptosporidium and age, consistency of feces, breed, management practices and size of herd of cattle (P < 0.05) in the study area. There was no significant difference in sex and prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in cattle in the study area (P > 0.05). This study demonstrated a widespread prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in cattle in Federal Capital Territory. More worrisome is their prevalence in asymptomatic cattle as reservoirs that may sustain zoonotic cycle of transmission in the humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enterobacteriaceae from faecal samples of Eidolon helvum were isolated and identified biochemically then further confirmed using Analytical Profile Index 20E Kit. Antibiotic susceptibility testing and extended spectrum b-lactamase (ESBL) production using Mast Disc were carried out. Detection of CTX-M gene was done using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) employing appropriate primers. A total of 337 bacterial isolates was recovered from the studied locations consisting of forty-one species belonging to fifteen genera. Species of Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Salmonella, Klebsiella spp, and Escherichia coli were the most abundant and common to the three studied locations, with Salmonella spp being the most predominant. A total of 35.9% of the selected isolates was produced ELBS and 14.28% of the isolates harbours CTX-M gene. The study concludes that E. helvum in the study areas are reservoirs of Enterobacteriaceae and some harboured CTX-M gene which confirmed their pathogenicity with public health consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out in selected poultry farms to determine the prevalence, distribution and antimicrobial resistance patterns in Salmonella serovars in Ogun State, South-western Nigeria. A total of 200 faecal samples were aseptically collected from the four geographical zones of Ogun State, Nigeria. Seventy-eight Salmonella isolates spread across 39 serovars and representing a prevalence of 39% was recovered. Salmonella Urbana (n=7), Salmonella Kingston (n=6) and Salmonella Agama (n=5) serovars were more commonly isolated. Resistance was most common to ciprofloxacin (29.5%; n=23/78). Multi-drug resistance (MDR) was observed in 15.4% (n=12/78) of the isolates spread across 7 serovars: S. Kentucky, S. Telelkebir, S. Virchow, S. Blockley, S. Chomedey, S. Haifa, and S. Isangi. The study showed the diversity of Salmonella serovars and the increasing trend of antimicrobial resistance in poultry farms in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human astrovirus (HAstV) is a nonenveloped RNA virus and has been implicated in acute gastroenteritis among children and elderly. However, there exists a substantial dearth of information on HAstV strains circulating in Nigeria. Viral-like particles were purified from archived 254 stool samples of children with acute flaccid paralysis between January and December 2020 from five states in Nigeria, using the NetoVIR protocol. Extracted viral RNA and DNA were subjected to a reverse transcription step and subsequent random polymerase chain reaction amplification. Library preparation and Illumina sequencing were performed. Using the virome paired-end reads pipeline, raw reads were processed into genomic contigs. Phylogenetic and pairwise identity analysis of the recovered HAstV genomes was performed. Six near-complete genome sequences of HAstV were identified and classified as HAstV4 (n = 1), HAstV5 (n = 1), HAstV8 (n = 1), and MLB-3 (n = 3). The HAstV5 belonged to a yet unclassified sublineage, which we tentatively named HAstV-5d. Phylogenetic analysis of open reading frames 1a, 1b, and 2 suggested recombination events inside the MAstV1 species. Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis implied a geographic linkage between the HAstV5 strain from this study with two strains from Cameroon across all the genomic regions. We report for the first time the circulation of HAstV genotypes 4, 8, and MLB-3 in Nigeria and present data suggestive for the existence of a new sublineage of HAstV5. To further understand the burden, diversity, and evolution of HAstV, increased research interest as well as robust HAstV surveillance in Nigeria is essential., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

We recently investigated the presence of enteroviruses (EVs) in non-human primates (NHPs) in Northern Nigeria and documented the presence of EV-A76 of South-East Asian ancestry in an NHP. In this study, we go further to ask if we could also find EVs in NHPs indigenous to the forested South-south Nigeria. Fresh faecal samples were collected from the floor of 10 cages housing NHPs in Cross River Nigeria, re-suspended in PBS and subjected to RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PanEnt 5′-UTR and PanEnt VP1 PCR assays. None of the samples was positive for the PanEnt VP1 assay, but one sample was positive for PanEnt 5′-UTR PCR. This sample was subsequently inoculated into RD cell line, produced CPE and the isolate analysed by PCR assays, next-generation whole genome sequencing and passage in four different cell lines showing replication in two of them. Analysis of the complete genome of the isolate identified it as an Echovirus 11 (E11) and revealed a recombinant genomic structure. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the E11 NHP strain was related to human clinical isolates suggesting a zoonotic behaviour. We describe the first isolation and complete genome characterization of an E11 obtained from an NHP in Nigeria having zoonotic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stool disposal practices have been shown to be associated with childhood diarrhea. There exist variations in explanatory variables of safe child's faecal disposal practices depending on the context of the study. Thus, the need for this study to assess factors associated with safe disposal practices of children's faeces in Nigeria. Methods: This study utilized the 2013 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey data. Child's faecal disposal practice was classified as safe and unsafe as defined by the World Health Organization/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Program. Binary and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with safe faecal disposal practices. The analysis was restricted to a weighted sample of 19, 288 youngest children in the households. Results: Overall, the prevalence of safe disposal of child's faeces was 59.4%. Safe child's faeces disposal was the highest among older women (64.4%), highly educated women and their husbands (67.1%) and (66.4%), respectively; among rich households (72.3%), Muslim (68.7%), urban areas (68.8%), and in North West zone (78.4%). In multivariate analysis, safe faecal disposal was significantly associated with the age of mother, maternal education level, wealth index, religion, source of water, and type of toilet facility. Marital status, geopolitical zone, having diarrhea in the past 2 weeks before the survey and sex of the child were not significant determinants of safe faecal disposal practice. Conclusion: Understanding the prevailing faecal disposal practices is a prerequisite to the formulation of effective intervention strategies. It is pertinent, therefore, that programs and interventions designed to improve safe child's faecal disposal practices need to take into consideration the factors identified in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water pollution takes place in both rural and urban areas. Drinking water from sources like rivers, streams, lakes and ponds are polluted by organic and inorganic material from human activities. The study on coliform bacteria concentration in Okpon River, Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria was conducted. The method adopted in the study were systematic sampling technique and laboratory water quality analysis. Systematic sampling technique was adopted in the collection of water samples at three locations along Okpon river for laboratory analysis. One hundred and ninety-six (196) questionnaire were distributed to the respondents. The findings showed that, typhoid had the highest frequency of prevalence with a value of 63 and 32.1 percent. A significant relationship exists between coliform concentration and water borne diseases in the study area with a Spearman's Rank correlation of 0.658. This meant that as average coliform count increases, percentage of people suffering from water borne diseases increases. This observed increase was significant at the 0.02 probability level since rs(df = 10) = 0.658, P < 0.05. The study showed that the risk of coliform concentration in water sources grew with increase in human population, with the current social and cultural habits. The researcher therefore recommended that residents should dispose their faecal waste properly and provide modern toilet facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cholera remains a disease of public health importance in Nigeria associated with high morbidity and mortality. In November 2014, the Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (NFELTP) was notified of an increase in suspected cholera cases in Gomani, Kwali Local Government Area. NFELTP residents were deployed to investigate the outbreak with the objectives of verifying the diagnosis, identifying risk factors and instituting appropriate control measures to control the outbreak.Methods: We conducted an unmatched case-control study. We defined a cholera case as any person aged ≥5 years with acute watery diarrhea in Gomani community. We identified community controls. A total of 43 cases and 68 controls were recruited. Structured questionnaires were administered to both cases and controls. Four stool samples from case-patients and two water samples from the community water source were collected for laboratory investigation. We performed univariate and bivariate analysis using Epi-Info version 7.1.3.10.Results: The mean age of cases and controls was 20.3 years and 25.4 respectively (p value 0.09). Females constituted 58.1% (cases) and 51.5%(controls). The attack rate was 4.3% with a case fatality rate of 13%. Four stool (100%) specimen tested positive for Vibrio cholerae. The water source and environment were polluted by indiscriminate defecation. Compared to controls, cases were more likely to have drank from Zamani river (OR 14.2, 95% CI: 5.5-36.8) and living in households(HH) with more than 5 persons/HH (OR 5.9, 95% CI: 1.3-27.2). Good hand hygiene was found to be protective (OR 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1-0.7).Conclusion: Vibrio cholerae was the cause of the outbreak in Gomani. Drinking water from Zamani river, living in overcrowded HH and poor hand hygiene were significantly associated with the outbreak. We initiated hand hygiene and water treatment to control the outbreak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Safe management of faeces (SMoF) and environmental contamination by faecal pathogens have been extensively researched although the SMoF in under-five children has been perennially neglected perhaps due to the misconception that it is harmless. This research, therefore, studied the situation, to determine the magnitude and dimensions of the problem aimed at making policy level stakeholders aware of child faeces management systems and so, inform evidence-based implementation of child and health-related programmes in Nigeria.Methods: The study utilized an exploratory cross-sectional design and a multi-stage sampling technique to identify 300 respondents from 12 randomly selected streets from 4 wards in Ife central local government area. The study collected data with a pretested questionnaire which included direct observations of child defecation practices and existing toilet facilities. Cleaned data were analyzed by IBM-SPSS version 20 with child faeces management outcomes as the dependent variable.Results: The mean age of respondents' and monthly income (mode) were 30.8 ± 7.5 years and ₦10,000.00 ($28.60). Most respondents were mothers to the under five children (84.7%), had a secondary education (72.0%) and were semi-skilled (57.0%). The caregivers had access to improved water sources (93.7%), improved toilets (64.3%), with 64% and 53.7% having above average scores in knowledge and attitudes, respectively. In the study, 19.7% and 69.0% of caregivers practiced safe disposal of faeces passed by the under five child during the day and at night respectively, though most caregivers (94.3%) omitted steps in the safe management of child faeces chain. The under five diarrhoea prevalence rate was 13.7% and unsanitary passage of child faeces is associated with four folds likelihood of having diarrhoea (p = 0.001). The caregivers whose under five children practiced safe sanitation were rich (p = 0.009) and knowledge was significantly associated with ownership of household toilet (P = 0.037), night faeces management chain practice (P < 0.001) and disposal of anal cleaning materials (P = 0.002). Handwashing was significantly associated with household toilet (P < 0.001), wealth (P < 0.001), under five child defecation preferences during the day (P < 0.001) and at night (P = 0.008).Conclusion: The high knowledge and positive attitudes exhibited by the caregivers were at variance with practice. Where under five children defecate during the day were influenced by the disposal of their anal cleaning materials, distance to the toilet and caregivers' education. The findings highlight the dangers of unsanitary disposal of child faeces and the need to strengthen the related policies that can increase caregivers awareness and practice at all levels and in all livelihood domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giardiasis, caused by Giardia duodenalis , is a leading cause of diarrhoea in resource-poor countries. To gain a better insight into the epidemiology of Giardia in Africa, we undertook a robust study to comprehend the distribution and prevalence of Giardia infection in humans, animals and their dispersal in the environment. Our protocol was registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022317653). Deep literature search from 5 electronic databases, namely, AJOL, Google scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect and Springer Link was performed using relevant keywords. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model and heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using Cochran's Q and the I 2 -statistic. More than 500 eligible studies published from 1 January 1980 until 22 March 2022 were retrieved. In humans, exactly 48 124 Giardia spp. infection cases were registered from the 494 014 stool samples examined resulting in a pooled prevalence estimate (PPE) of 8.8% using microscopy. Whereas copro-antigen tests and molecular diagnostic methods generated PPE of 14.3 and 19.5%, respectively, with HIV+ subjects and those with diarrhoeatic stool having infection rates of 5.0 and 12.3%, respectively. The PPE of Giardia spp. infection in animals using molecular methods was 15.6%, which was most prevalent in pigs (25.2%) with Nigeria registering the highest prevalence at 20.1%. The PPE of Giardia spp. contamination from waterbodies was 11.9% from a total of 7950 samples which were detected using microscopy, with Tunisia documenting the highest infection rate of 37.3%. This meta-analysis highlights the necessity of ‘One Health’ approach for consolidated epidemiological studies and control of giardiasis in the African continent.

Data on spatiotemporal distribution of rotavirus diarrhea are limited in many endemic settings. This study determined the prevalence and seasonal distribution of rotavirus among Nigerian children with diarrhea. Here, a total of 406 fecal samples were collected from patients attending six health facilities in Lagos between January - December 2019. Socio-demographic data of each enrolled child were collected. Rotavirus VP6 antigen was detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and confirmation by VP7 gene detection by reverse transcription polymerase-chain reaction. The overall rotavirus diarrhea prevalence was 16.3% by ELISA with children above 2 years having 29.2% of this prevalence and higher occurrence in females (59.1%) than males (40.9%) (P < .05). Rotavirus diarrhea diagnosis using RT-PCR showed 100% concordance with ELISA. Cases of rotavirus diarrhea were detected from March to July and from September to November with the highest number of cases detected in May and June (22.7% each), followed by July (21.2%). The prevalence of rotavirus diarrhea remains high in Lagos with an emerging higher disease activity in children above 2. A different rotavirus transmission dynamics compared to previous studies from Nigeria and other African countries was found. VP6 ELISA may reliably be used for continuous rotavirus surveillance in Nigeria.

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is common among humans and plays a major role in the etiology of peptic ulcer disease with significant morbidity in patients with HIV-1 on antiretroviral therapy. There are conflicting prevalence patterns of H. pylori in HIV-1 infected patients using various methods of detection. The noninvasive technique used for detection of H. pylori infection is inexpensive and convenient with no complications. Materials and Methods: We aimed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection among patients infected with HIV-1 on antiretroviral therapy using H. pylori stool antigen. 139 patients infected with HIV-1 were recruited, stool samples were collected and the H. pylori stool antigen (HpSA) test was used to detect H. pylori antigen. Results: 46.8% of the respondents were positive for H. pylori and 53.2% were negative, 18 (13%) were men and 47 (33.8%) were women. HpSA is a relatively simple, inexpensive, and time-saving non-invasive test for the detection of H. pylori infections in patients infected with HIV-1. Conclusion: We also observed that the prevalence of H. pylori was low in these patients compared with the general population. However, more studies using H. pylori stool antigen test are needed in these patients in the North-Central, Nigeria to further evaluate the infection rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Norovirus (NoV) is a leading cause of viral gastroenteritis globally, especially in children below five years. Epidemiological studies on the diversity of NoV in middle- and low-income countries, including Nigeria, are limited. This study aimed to determine the genetic diversity of NoV in children below five years with acute gastroenteritis at three hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria. A total of 331 fecal samples were collected from February 2015 to April 2017, while 175 were randomly selected and analyzed using RT-PCR, partial sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of both the polymerase (RdRp) and capsid (VP1) genes. NoV was detected in 5.1% (9/175; RdRp) and 2.3% (4/175; VP1) of samples, with 55.6% (5/9) co-infection with other enteric viruses. A diverse genotype distribution was identified, and GII.P4 was the dominant RdRp genotype detected (66.7%), with two genetic clusters, followed by GII.P31 (22.2%). The rare GII.P30 genotype (11.1%) was detected at a low rate for the first time in Nigeria. Based on the VP1 gene, GII.4 was the dominant genotype (75%), with two variants, Sydney 2012 and possibly New Orleans 2009, co-circulating during the study. Interestingly, both intergenotypic, GII.12(P4) and GII.4 New Orleans(P31), and intra-genotypic, GII.4 Sydney(P4) and GII.4 New Orleans(P4), putative recombinant strains were observed. This finding suggests the first likely report of GII.4 New Orleans(P31) in Nigeria. In addition, GII.12(P4) was first described in Africa and globally in this study, to the best of our knowledge. This study provided insights into the genetic diversity of NoV circulating in Nigeria, which would be useful for ongoing and future vaccine design and monitoring of emerging genotypes and recombinant strains.

Production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) producing E. coli in animals and different methods of identifications from Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, were investigated. Three hundred and fifty fecal samples, collected from apparently healthy cattle and pigs, were cultured and identified following standard procedures. ESBL phenotypic detection was carried out using combination disc test, double disc synergism test, and ESBL brilliance agar screening. Molecular detection of TEM, SHV, and CTX-M genes was carried out using standard molecular method. One hundred and fourteen E. coli isolates were recovered from the 350 samples processed, out of which 72 (63.2%) isolates were positive for ESBLs with multiple resistance to the antibiotics used. Eighty-one (71%) isolates were positive for ESBL by combination disc test, 90 (78.9%) were positive for double disc synergism test, and 93 (81.6%) were positive for ESBL brilliance agar. TEM and CTX-M genes were detected in 48 (42.1%) and 51 (44.7%) isolates, respectively. SHV gene was not detected in any of the isolates while TEM and CTX-M were detected in 33 (28.9%) isolates. This study showed high resistance of E. coli to antibiotics, particularly to the third generation cephalosporins. Regular monitoring and regulated use of antibiotics in livestock should be encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of chimpanzees as seed dispersers may be influenced by the secondary removal and/or dispersal of seeds by other taxa. This study documents species involvement and their influences on seed treatments (fresh seed, dry seed and seeds rubbed in fresh chimpanzee faeces). Field experiments conducted on ten large-seed species consumed by chimpanzees in a Nigerian montane forest showed that secondary seed removal after 24 h varied between species. After 96-h, seed removal still varied between species, but no previous significant differences were observed among treatments, which suggested treatment becomes insignificant with time. Dispersal by chimpanzees may be more important for some large-seeded species than others. The taxa removing seeds varied across seed species but were mainly restricted to rodents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study was aimed at examining the potential of non-biting synanthropic filth flies to acquire naturally eggs of human intestinal helminths from unsanitary sites, and its attendant public health importance. Methods Body surface washings and gut contents of flies caught foraging while infected human faeces lay exposed at a garbage dump in Iperu, Ogun State, Nigeria and within 24 hours subsequently after removal of faeces from the dump were examined parasitologically by the formol-ether concentration technique. The viability of helminth eggs isolated from flies was determined by incubation under laboratory conditions. Results A total of 303 flies were examined: Musca domestica (107; 35.3%), Chrysomya megacephala (125; 41.3%) and Musca sorbens (71; 23.4%). Eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura isolated from exposed human faeces were recovered from the body surfaces and or gut contents of flies caught before (141; 77.5%) and after removal of exposed faeces (44; 36.4%). Eggs of Taenia sp. were isolated only from the gut contents of three C. megacephala flies caught after removal of exposed faeces. Significantly more (p<0.05) eggs were recovered from fly gut contents than body surfaces and from flies caught before than after removal of exposed faeces. 93.1% (552; from exposed faeces) and 57.4% (408; from flies) of A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura eggs were viable. Conclusions Synanthropic flies may, because they carry viable eggs acquired naturally from unsanitary sites, be involved in the epidemiology of human intestinal helminthiases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This cross-sectional study investigated the circulating strains of rotavirus and screened for noravirus in Ibadan, Nigeria as the country introduces the rotavirus vaccine into its national immunization program., Methods: Sixty-five stool samples were collected from children younger than 5 years with clinically diagnosed diarrhea and screened for the presence of rotavirus and norovirus using RT-PCR. Rotavirus-positive samples were further analyzed to determine the G and P genotypes using semi-nested multiplex PCR., Results: The rates of rotavirus and norovirus positivity were 30.8% and 10.8%, respectively, whereas the rate of rotavirus and norovirus mixed infection was 4.6%. G1 was the predominant VP7 genotype, followed by G2, G9, and G1G2G9, whereas the predominant VP4 genotype was P[4], followed by P[6], P[8], and P[9]. The mixed P types P[4]P[8] and P[4]P[6] were also detected. G1P[4] was the most common VP4 and VP7 combination, followed by G2P[4], G1[P6], G1P[8], G2P[6], G2P[9], G9P[6], G2G9P[4], G2P[4]P[6], G1P[4]P[8], G2G9P[8], G1G2G9P[8], and G1[non-typable] P[non-typable], which were detected in at least 5% of the samples. Four samples had a combination of non-typable G and P types., Conclusions: It is essential to monitor the circulation of virus strains prior to and during the implementation of the immunization program.

Background: Rotavirus infection is a significant cause of gastroenteritis in developing countries and, in severe cases even leads to death. The impact of rotavirus vaccine introduction in reducing the rotavirus disease burden in children was well known. The study was aimed to determine the prevalence and clinical characteristics of rotavirus gastroenteritis before the introduction of rotavirus vaccine into Nigeria's routine immunization program., Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional hospital-based study involving 735 children aged 0-59 months with acute gastroenteritis hospitalized at the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria from September 2017 to August 2020. Relevant sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained and entered into the World Health Organization standardized case investigation forms. Stool specimens were tested for rotavirus Group A antigen using the ProSpecT™ Rotavirus Microplate Assay by Thermoscientific Oxoid Microbiology UK., Results: One hundred and fifty-three stool samples tested positive for rotavirus giving a prevalence of 20.8%. One hundred and two (66.7%) children with rotavirus gastroenteritis were infants. There were 87 males and 66 females with M: F ratio of 1.3:1. Only 30 (19.6%) children with rotavirus-associated diarrhea presented with severe dehydration. The presence of vomiting was significantly associated with rotavirus diarrhea (P = 0.001). More cases of rotavirus diarrhea occurred in September through February. None of the studied children were vaccinated against rotavirus., Conclusion: The prevalence of rotavirus diarrhea remains high in this study. Infants were recognized as a high-risk group, and none of them were vaccinated against rotavirus and this underscores the urgent need for implementing the rotavirus vaccine in the national vaccination program to reduce the disease burden in the country.

Aim: To determine the occurrence of Escherichia coli O157: H7 in hides and faeces of slaughtered ruminants in Nigeria. Methods and Results: A total number of 320 animals were sampled from January to December covering the wet and harmattan seasons. Samples were obtained from the hides and faeces of animals at slaughter. The ISO (ISO 16654:2001, Microbiology of food and animal feedingstuffs - horizontal method for the detection of Escherichia coli O157) method for enrichment and isolation of E. coli O157 incorporating selective enrichment using modified tryptone soya broth with novobiocin (mTSBn),immunomagnetic separation and plating on sorbitol-MacConkey agar with cefixime tellurite (CT-SMAC) was used. Overall cattle had a prevalence rate of 49·4% followed by sheep and goats with rates of 6·3% and 2·5%, respectively. There was a significant difference in carriage of E. coli O157 among two different cattle breeds. Conclusions: The prevalence of E. coli O157: H7 is substantial from two abattoirs in the country. The carriage and shedding of E. coli O157: H7 did not differ with season but differed among groups of ruminants and among breeds of cattle in a tropical country. Significance and Impact of the Study: This is the first study on E. coli O157: H7 from abattoir operations in Nigeria. The study emphasizes the risk of E. coli O157: H7 along the meat chain and the need for concerted effort to limit it through best hygiene practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was designed to reevaluate the importance of screening for intestinal parasites in elective surgery patients so as to prevent the complications associated with intestinal parasitism in this group of patients. Methods: The study was carried out in Jos, North Central Nigeria, to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitism in 130 consecutive elective surgery patients using the direct wet mount and formol ether concentration methods. Results: The overall distribution of intestinal parasites was 31.5%, with the helminthes recording 30.8% while protozoans had 1.5%. Patients for lower abdominal surgery recorded 33.3%, while 24.0% was recorded for the other types of surgery. Hookworms recorded the highest distribution with 17.7% followed by Ascaris lumbricoides with 10.8%, Schistosoma mansoni and Strongyloides stercoralis with 2.3% each, and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar and Trichuris trichiura with 0.8 % each. The age group of 61 years and above had the highest prevalence of 45.5% followed by the 41-50 year age group with 36.4%. The 11-20 and 51-60 year age groups had the least prevalence at 23.1% each. The females recorded a higher prevalence of 37.5% against 31.0% in males. Farmers had 35.3% while civil servants had the least prevalence of 7.1%. Subjects who defecate in toilet pits had a prevalence of 35.5%, closely followed by those who defecate in bushes and cultivated farmlands with 34.0%. Subjects using the water-closet toilet system recorded only 6.7%. In relation to sources of drinking water, those using water from streams and rivers recorded the highest prevalence of 35.1%, while those using tap water recorded 27.0%. Conclusion: These results emphasize the importance of screening elective surgery patients, especially in endemic areas for intestinal parasites, so as to prevent possible complications associated with intestinal parasites during and after the surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic helminthes are endemic in Nigeria, owing to poor environmental sanitation, pollution, and contamination of water and air. Children in Nigeria are highly exposed and very vulnerable to these infections, and these infections have adverse effects on their physical and mental development. School children, then, are good targets for mass-treatment programs against intestinal worms; treating children has been shown to reduce transmission to untreated members in communities. This study determines the effectiveness of deworming school children with a view to improving the planning and implementation of control programs in the study area and reveals that regular use of broad-spectrum anti-helminth medication is advocated for effective deworming programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are major food-borne pathogens associated with gastroenteritis and sometimes fatal haemolytic uraemic syndrome complication. Farm animals are asymptomatic carriers of STEC and contaminated meat is an important vehicle for zoonotic transmission from animals to humans. This study investigated the presence, virulence traits and antimicrobial susceptibility of seven potentially human pathogenic STEC serogroups (O157, O26, O91, O103, O111, O128 and O145) in the faeces and meat of food-producing animals in Ibadan, Nigeria. One hundred and fifty-four (7.3%) of 2133 samples were positive for STEC serogroups. The pathogens were detected in the faeces of cattle (15.2%), sheep (10.7%), goats (7.5%) and pigs (5.6%) as well as in beef (3.8%), goat-meat (1.7%) and pork (4.0%). All seven investigated STEC serogroups were found in cattle, all except O145 were found in sheep, three serogroups (O157, O26 and O111) were found in goats and three (O157, O111 and O128) in pigs. The rate of detection of each of the serogroups in all 2133 samples was: O157 (5.0%), O26 (0.2%), O91 (0.3%), O103 (0.3%), O111 (1.0%), O128 (0.2%) and O145 (0.1%). Of all 154 isolates, 11.0% had shiga toxin type 1 gene (stx 1 ), 25.3% had stx 2 and 41.6% had stx 1 /stx 2 ; intimin gene (eaeA) was detected in 56.5% and enterohaemolysin gene (hlyA) in 75.3%. Among the O157 isolates, 24.5% were negative for stx genes but positive for eaeA and/or hlyA while 7.6% were negative for all four virulence genes. Fourteen different combinations of virulence genes were encountered but stx 1 /stx 2 /eaeA/hlyA combination was the most predominant. The percentage resistance of the isolates to the tested antimicrobial agents was: ampicillin (82.5%), chloramphenicol (42.9%), ciprofloxacin (22.1%), enrofloxacin (25.3%), nalidixic acid (37.7%), neomycin (24.0%), norfloxacin (20.8%), streptomycin (50.7%) and tetracycline (75.3%). One hundred and forty-eight (96.1%) of all 154 isolates were resistant to at least one of the tested antimicrobial agents while 69.5% were categorised as multi-drug resistant. Potentially pathogenic multi-drug resistant STEC isolates were recovered from the meat production chain in Nigeria. Unhygienic practices that predominate during slaughter and processing were observed to have contributed to faecal contamination and presence of STEC in meat. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A parasitological study of intestinal schistosomiasis among public/private primary and secondary school pupils in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria was conducted. Out of the 280 stool samples examined, 13(4.6%) were positive for S. mansoni parasites. Single, dual and multiple parasitic infections were recovered. The study provided some data on infections with intestinal parasites among the pupils/students in Jos, Nigeria, recommending that control and treatment of these infections is of great importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that investigated the presence of Cyclospora cayetanensis in Lagos, Nigeria by screening stool samples submitted to some major hospitals' laboratories, and determined the symptoms associated with the presentation of illness. Methodology; Results and discussion.

Haemonchosis is a gastrointestinal parasitic disease of economic importance in ruminants especially sheep and goats. In view of the rising costs of conventional veterinary anthelmintics and the development of resistance by Haemonchus contortus, there is a need to develop alternative ethnoveterinary therapies for the treatment and management of Haemonchosis. This study investigated the anthelmintic activity of Dennettia tripetala G. Baker (Annonaceae) fruits against Haemonchus contortus in red Sokoto goats. The maximum tolerated dose was determined in adult albino rats administered, 3000, 4000, and 5000 mg/kg body weight of the crude methanol extract (CME) fraction, and observed over a period of 48 h for signs of toxicity and mortality. The in vivo anthelmintic activity was evaluated using 20 kids infected with H. contortus and randomly allocated into 5 groups (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5). Kids in groups 1, 2, and 3 were treated with CME at doses of 1250, 2500, and 5000 mg/kg respectively for 3 consecutive days per os. Groups 4 and 5 were treated with albendazole (7.5 mg/kg) once and distilled water (5 ml) respectively and served as treated and untreated controls. Blood samples were collected for haematology. The maximum tolerated dose of the CME of D. tripetala did not produce observable signs of toxicity or death in all the rats given up to 5000 mg/kg. There was significant (P < 0.05) reduction in faecal egg count by CME at doses of 1250 mg/kg (91.6%), 2500 mg/kg (98.5%), and 5000 mg/kg (100%) at day 14 post-treatment. The total plasma protein (TPP) and FAMACHA © scoring values were significantly improved (P < 0.05) in the treated groups. These results indicate that methanol extract and fractions of D. tripetala fruits possess beneficial anthelmintic activity against H. contortus and may be a suitable alternative anthelmintic candidate for the control of haemonchosis in goats., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Purpose: Intestinal helminthiasis among pupils is a major impediment to their well-being and development. This 2-year study determined how home-grown school feeding programme (HGSFP) impacted on pupils' school attendance and created opportunity for more children to assess interventions geared towards the prevention and possible elimination of intestinal helminthiasis., Methods: Faecal samples were collected from 1677 consented pupils and examined for helminths using Kato-Katz technique. Pupils were treated with 40 mg Levamisole (anti-helminthic) and re-examined. Structured questionnaires and focus group discussions were used to determine anthropometric indices and risk factors., Results: A 6% prevalence rate which was not significant with respect to sex or age was observed. Helminth parasites observed were Ascaris lumbricoides (4.4%), Trichuris trichiura (0.8%), Hookworm spp. (0.2%), and Taenia spp. (0.5%). Two pupils (1.98%) recorded high intensity of infection (epg) while 98.02% had light infection. Ascaris lumbricoides voided following treatment were 290. The Body Mass Index (BMI) indicated that infected pupils had lower values (14.6317) compared to uninfected pupils (19.2003). The HGSFP significantly improved school attendance by 30%. Lack of knowledge about transmission (P = 0.0004), hand hygiene (P = 0.01) and usage of toilet (P = 0.01) were risk factors observed., Conclusion/significance: Intestinal helminthiasis remains a public health problem among pupils because environmental and behavioural risk factors persist. HGSFP improved school attendance and created opportunity for more inclusive participation of school-aged children for deworming. This has great potential in fast-tracking the elimination of intestinal helminthiasis. The present study consequently advocates the need to sustain HGSFP in schools., (© 2021. Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences.)

Despite well-established knowledge of the role of diet and the geographic effect on the gut microbiota of human populations, the temporal dynamics of the individual microbiota profile across changes associated with intercontinental short residence are still far from being understood. This pilot study sought to provide insights into the trajectory of the gut microbiota of an individual during a two-month stay in Italy and a subsequent two-month stay in Nigeria, by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and inferred metagenomics. The gut microbiota underwent massive but temporary changes, both taxonomically and based on predicted functionality. The faecal microbiota associated with the short stay in Italy progressively lost diversity and showed a dominance of Firmicutes, while after returning to Nigeria, the microbial community quickly regained the typical profile, in terms of biodiversity and bacterial signatures of traditional lifestyle, i.e., Prevotella and Treponema . Predicted pathways involved in glycolysis, fermentation and N-acetylneuraminate degradation were enriched during the subsequent two-month stay in Nigeria, whereas pathways associated with amino acid and peptidoglycan synthesis and maturation became over-represented during short stay in Italy. Our findings stress the plasticity of the individual gut microbiota even during a short-term travel, with loss/gain of taxonomic and functional features that mirror those of the gut microbiota of indigenous people dwelling therein., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Afolayan, Biagi, Rampelli, Candela, Brigidi, Turroni and Ayeni.)

This study was sought to determine the impact of CD4 + T-cell count and associated risk factors with intestinal parasitosis in people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Central Hospital, Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria. One hundred and seventy (170) HIV-seropositive subjects were enrolled in the study from 24 August 2015 to 22 January 2016. Sociodemographic data were assessed using structured questionnaires. Blood and stool samples were collected from every participant. CD4 + T-cell count and stool parasitology were performed. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 44.7%. Helminthiasis (67%) was a predominant infection in the study, while 32.9% had protozoasis. Specifically, Ancylostoma duodenale (33.3%) was the most common helminth, and Trichuris trichiura (7.8%), the least. However, Strongyloides stercoralis, Ascaris lumbricoides and Hymenolepis nana were 13.7%, 31.5% and 13.7%, respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. (25.0%) was the only protozoan. Lower CD4 + T-cell count, ART naivety (OR = 2.62 p < 0.05), residence in a rural setting (OR = 0.89, p < 0.05), and farming occupation (OR = 1.70, p < 0.05) were associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis among PLHIV. This study revealed a significantly high prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in ART naive PLHIV with reduced CD4 + count. Hence, it is recommended to frequently test for intestinal parasitosis and commencement of ART in all PLHIV to improve their health and longevity.

Tropical goat breeds often have at least modest resistance to gastrointestinal nematode parasites (GIN), but enhancement of GIN resistance is important for breed improvement. This study compared changes in fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume, and body weight in Red Sokoto (RS) and Sahelian (SH) male and female weaner kids and adult goats. The RS is found throughout Nigeria, but the SH is found only in the arid Sahel. Goats were evaluated fortnightly for 20 times (MT) under normal grazing conditions and natural GIN infection over 9.5 months, beginning in the dry season (November) and ending at the end of the subsequent wet season (August). Animals were dewormed at the start of the study and during the rainy season (MT 18). Breed differences in FEC and PCV were not observed in weaners. Weaner females had lower FEC than males but were rapidly re-infected after deworming, perhaps in association with attainment of puberty. Adult SH goats of both sexes had lower FEC than RS goats in MT 8 through 17, suggesting a stronger acquired immune response. The FEC in lactating females of both breeds increased rapidly after deworming, to ≥ 3000 eggs per gram of feces at MT 19 and 20. The optimal time to evaluate GIN resistance in weaners was during the early rainy season, but the decision to focus on the initial high FEC near MT 15 or wait until mobilization of the acquired immune response near MT 17 requires further consideration., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Dog feces may contain zoonotic parasites that contaminate the environment and serve as a potential source of infection to animals and humans. In this study, microscopic and molecular analyses were used to estimate the prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites and assess the risk factors for infection in 948 dogs in three climatically distinct zones of Nigeria. Zoonotic helminths including Strongyloides stercoralis, Ancylostoma braziliense, A. caninum and Toxocara canis were detected either as single or multiple infections in 377 (39.8 %) of dogs examined. At multiple logistic regression analyses, association was found between GI parasite infection and deworming practices and dog management. Regarding A. braziliense, A. caninum and T. canis infections, intensity of egg shedding was statistically associated with the age of the dogs and not with their sex or breed. The majority of GI parasite-positive dogs did not receive regular deworming treatment (59 %) and roamed freely (56 %) thereby constituting public health risk. This is the first nationwide survey and analyses of risk factors of GI parasites of dogs using molecular methods as confirmation of their identity. The zoonotic potential of these parasites is exacerbated by the lack of both operational national policies to control the population of free-roaming dogs and to promote responsible dog ownership, and veterinary public health programs for dogs., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

To understand the molecular characteristics of Cryptosporidium species contaminating rivers, water treatment plants and abattoirs in Ibadan Nigeria, water samples were obtained from ten rivers used for household and agricultural purposes, three major functional water treatment plants and three major abattoirs located within Ibadan metropolis during dry and rainy seasons between November, 2016 to October, 2017. Obtained samples were examined for Cryptosporidium oocysts using microscopy after using modified formalin-ether concentration method and modified acid-fast staining. Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in samples from five rivers with mean oocyst count/field ranging from 7.70 ± 0.57-1.34 ± 0.57, oocysts were also detected in samples from two abattoirs with mean oocyst count/field ranging from 4.60 ± 0.33-2.50 ± 0.33. Genomic DNA were extracted from microscopy positive river and abattoir samples using sucrose gradient purification method and genotypes and subtypes of parasites were detected by nested PCR amplification and nucleotide sequence analysis of both 18S rRNA and 60-kDa glycoprotein (gp60) genes. Cryptosporidium parvum, C. muris and C. fragile were the only genotypes detected in some river samples, while gp60 gene sequence analysis showed that the C. parvum strain detected was subtype IIa. This study provides evidence that rivers used for household and agricultural purposes in studied area may be potential reservoirs and infection sources for Cryptosporidium species and zoonotic subtypes of public health importance., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Norovirus is a major cause of diarrhea among children worldwide. This present report highlight's the genetic homology patterns of GII.17 noroviruses detected among children under-5 years of age with diarrhea in the South-South, region of Nigeria. Stool specimens were collected from 300 children with diarrhea and analyzed for norovirus using conventional reverse transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction. Sequencing of the capsid region was performed to genotype the strains RESULTS: 36/300 (12.0%) of patients were positive for norovirus by RT-PCR. 7/36 (19.4%) (5 GI.3 and 2 GI.5) were GI others where typed to be GII. All GII.17 norovirus identified in this study, 3/29 (10.3%) where typed to belong to the recently discovered GII.17 Kawasaki strain. This study report for the first time the detection of norovirus GII.17 Kawasaki strain in South-South, region of Nigeria.

Coccidiosis is the most economically impactful enteric protozoan disease of animals including cattle. A year (March 2018 to February 2019) study was conducted on cattle in Ilorin, North-Central Nigeria with the objective of determining the prevalence, intensity of infection, diversity of Eimeria species, co-infection patterns and risk factors associated with the enteric protozoan infection in cattle. To address this, faecal samples from 478 cattle of different age groups, breeds and sex were subjected to the floatation technique, the McMaster counting technique and sporulation procedure. One hundred and eighty-six (38.91%) of the sampled cattle were positive, and 8 different species were identified (Eimeria bovis, E. zuernii, E. auburnensis, E. cylindrica, E. subspherica, E. canadensis, E. bukidnonensis and E. alabamensis) with E. bovis (25.94%) and E. zuernii (23.43%) been the most prevalent. Eimeria oocysts were detected all through the year. The intensity of Eimeria species among infected cattle ranged between 200-12900 oocyst per gram of faeces. Following univariate analysis, breed, age, sex, physiological status, faecal consistency and PCV were significantly (p<0.05) associated with Eimeria infection. Multivariate analysis revealed that breed, age and physiological status were the significant risk factors associated with eimeriosis. The present study constitutes the first attempt to analyse the prevalence, intensity, diversity and epidemiological risk factors involved in bovine eimeriosis in North-Central Nigeria. It is envisaged that the data obtained will facilitate better control and prevention measures for Eimeria infection among cattle in the region.

We investigated the dietary preferences of chimpanzees residing in a Nigerian submontane forest using a combination of fecal analysis, observations of feeding remains, evidence from feeding tools and fruiting phenological data between April 2010 and March 2011. A total of 495 fecal samples were collected in which 52 fruit taxa were identified as having being consumed by chimpanzees, including 22 identified to species level and two identified to genus level. Ficus (seven species) was the most common seed genus identified, occurring in 61.2% of all fecal samples. Based on fecal analysis and phenological data, Ngel Nyaki chimpanzees do not solely consume fruits based on their availability within the habitat; while the proportion of fruit consumed did reflect the relative availability of fruit in the forest for some fruit species, Ficus was a preferred fruit even when scarce. In contrast, the proportion consumed of other fruit species was low relative to the abundance of their fruit available in the forest. Our results from the Rank Preference Index (RPI) suggest that relative preferences in fruit are seasonal. We discuss the role of Ficus in the diet of chimpanzees in Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve., (© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Isolation of arcobacters in foods, with the highest prevalence reported in poultry, has underscored its importance as a potential food safety problem in recent years. To estimate its prevalence in live birds, fresh stool samples from healthy chickens were screened by enrichment and plating on Arcobacter selective medium containing cefoperazone, amphotericin B, and teicoplanin. Of 150 fecal samples, only 2 (1.3%) yielded Arcobacter. Species were identified with fluorescence resonance energy transfer PCR. Isolate no. 21 from a local flock shared 99% identity with the complete genome of A. butzleri RM4018 (CP000361.1). Isolate no. 4 from a layer hen shared 100% identity with a partial 16S rRNA gene sequence of A. cryaerophilus (EF064151.1). The low prevalence of Arcobacter in the fecal samples of healthy chickens concurs with earlier studies suggesting that Arcobacter appears to be a transient colonizer of poultry intestines and therefore might not be the major source of chicken carcass contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The root and stem bark of Cassia sieberiana DC. (Caesalpiniaceae) and the root of Senna obtusifolia (Linn) Irwin and Barneby (Caesalpiniaceae), used for constipation in Nigeria, were assayed for laxative properties in male albino rats using the official senna leaf (Senna alexandrina Mill. family Caesalpiniaceae) as the reference standard. This is with a view to finding alternative laxative drug to official senna which is presently being imported into Nigeria from the United Kingdom., Materials and Methods: The mean percentage of wet faeces in rats, an indication of laxative activity, were obtained using established methods. The laxative activity was established at 500 mg/kg after the infusion of the drug was orally administered on male albino rats following established methods while a set of data was analyzed at 95 % confidence level., Results: At 500 mg/kg, Senna obtusifolia root gave about 45 % wet faeces while Cassia sieberiana root gave about 40 % wet faeces while at the highest dose of 700 mg/kg, they produced 60 % and 38 % wet faeces, respectively. At these two doses, the official Senna gave 50.6 % and 66 % wet faeces, respectively. Thus, S. obtusifolia and C. sieberiana roots exhibited 89 % and 80 % of the potency of S. alexandrina (the official drug), respectively. The analysis of variance revealed a significant statistical difference in the levels of wet faeces produced by rats dosed with C. sieberiana root., Conclusion: The results have shown that the roots of the two species could be developed as mild laxative drugs for children and pregnant women for whom the official senna will be contraindicated.

This study was designed to determine the haematological and biochemical profiles of growing Yankasa rams fed sorghum stover supplemented with Sun-Dried Poultry Droppings diets (SDPD). Poultry dropping is a good source of protein supplement. Its high nitrogen content suggests feeding it to ruminant would be an excellent avenue to convert nutrients in the waste into animal products. But a major challenge for it utilization is the danger of pathogenic organisms. Sun-drying of the droppings can render the waste free of pathogens. Thirty growing Yankasa rams aged 9-12 months, weighing 11.5-15.5 kg were randomly divided into five groups (3 in each) and assigned to five experimental diets T1-T5 which contained 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80% SDPD. Blood samples were analyzed for haematological and biochemical parameters. Results showed that White Blood Cell (WBC), Haemoglobin (Hb) and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) were significantly influenced by Dried Poultry Droppings based diets (DPD). Their values were WBC, 10.6, 12.9, 9.5, 7.0 and 10.7 L(-1), Hb, 8.6, 9.3, 8.6, 8.4 and 9.7 g dL(-1) and PCV, 22.9, 29.4, 27.1, 23.6 and 21.5%, respectively. Additionally, urea, sodium and total protein were significantly influenced by treatment diet. Their values were urea, 6.1, 6.3, 6.8, 6.9 and 8.1 mg dL(-1), sodium, 102.9, 128.8, 129.2, 130.7 and 130.7 mmol L(-1). total protein, 6.3, 6.5, 7.1, 7.2 and 7.1 g dL(-1). Most haematological and biochemical values obtained were within the normal range for sheep. SDPS diet can satisfactorily supplement sorghum stover without any deleterious effect on the blood chemistry and haematological profile of growing Yankasa rams.

Background: The implications of defaecation patterns to health are important. The abnormalities can be readily recognized and treated only if the normal pattern is known., Methods: This cross sectional study involved 1115 adolescents enrolled using a stratified multi-stage random sampling technique. A self-administered and semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on stool frequency, volume, colour and consistency. Data were compared between low and high across socioeconomic strata., Results: There were 481 males (overall mean age: 15.2 +/- 1.9 years). Participants were on mixed carbohydrate rich diet with both high and low fibre content.. Stool frequency was at least once daily in 77.3%, once in alternate days (17.4%) and once in >3days (5.3%). There was no association between stool frequency and gender (p=0.141) or age (p=0.345). More participants from the high (64.9%) than the low (35.1%) social classes opened their bowels once in >3days (p=0.048). More males produced larger stool volumes (>200ml) than females, (p=0.000). More than half (50.5%) of the participants reported passing brownish stool, 46.3% yellow stool and 3.2% greenish brown stool. Passage of soft stool was reported by 74.9% of the participants. Overall, 3.4% of participants had passed blood in their stool at some time., Conclusion: Majority of Nigerian adolescents passed 25-200 ml of soft stool atleast once daily and age and gender did not affect stool frequency. High socioeconomic status was associated with passage of hard stool and less frequent bowel opening. This data could facilitate early recognition of deviation from normal bowel habits in Nigerian adolescents.

Factors that determine the effectiveness of primates as seed dispersers include (i) the microsite into which they deposit seed, (ii) secondary removal of seed by other taxa and (iii) the effect of gut passage and/or spitting on subsequent seed germination. This contribution evaluated these factors in the little studied putty-nosed monkey, Cercopithecus nictitans, in a Nigerian montane forest. Field experiments showed that C. nictitans has greatly increased in its importance as a disperser of medium-sized seed (>5 mm) because other large primates have been hunted to near extinction. C. nictitans disperses seed across habitats by spitting and defaecation. Rates of secondary seed removal were high for all seed species irrespective of the presence or absence of C. nictitans faecal matter, size or microsite variables. Gut passage enhanced germination relative to hand-cleaned seed, while spitting had either no effect or decreased the germination rate., (Copyright 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

An investigation of the effects of application of poultry manure to crude oil polluted soils on the growth of maize and soil properties was carried out under natural conditions at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria. Potted maize plants were treated to crude oil pollution at four different levels (0, 25, 50 and 75 mL) and amended with poultry manure at four rates of application (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg ha(-1)) two weeks after pollution. Results obtained showed that percent survival rate, plant height and dry matter yield decreased with increase in crude oil contamination. For example % seed germination decreased from 93 to 0% as crude oil increased from 0 to 75 mL without poultry manure application while plant height decreased from 97 to 20 cm. However when amended with poultry manure, statistical analysis showed that the highest rate of crude oil application (75 mL) and the 150 kg ha(-1) rate poultry manure application affected maize growth, dry matter yield and soil properties significantly. For example at the 75 mL crude oil application, plant height increased from 20 to 149 cm as level of manure applied increased from 0 to 150 kg ha(-1) while dry matter yield increased from 27 to 58 g.

Aims: To investigate the potential of amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) profiling for genotyping Arcobacter butzleri and to obtain further data on the genetic diversity of this organism., Methods and Results: Seventy-three isolates of Danish, British, Turkish, Swedish, Nigerian and North American origin from human infections, chickens, turkeys, ducks, sheep and poultry abbatoir effluent were studied by use of a protocol that involved stringent PCR amplification of fragments derived from digestion of genomic DNA with restriction enzymes BglII and Csp6I. The mean similarity value of duplicate profiles of 10 isolates was 91.15%, indicating the method to be reproducible. Numerical analysis of all 73 isolates distinguished 51 subtypes at the 91% similarity level, of which 39 comprised single strains. The remaining 34 isolates were distributed among 12 subtypes, each of which contained strains homogeneous with respect to their respective source of isolation. However, contemporaneous strains from the same source could also be distinguished., Conclusions: AFLP profiling is an effective method for typing the genetically diverse organism A. butzleri., Significance and Impact of the Study: The study represents a comprehensive analysis of the genetic diversity of A. butzleri by use of isolates from six countries spanning three continents and also shows that several distinct A. butzleri genotypes may be found in a given environment. AFLP profiling appears to have considerable potential for molecular epidemiological studies of this ubiquitous emerging pathogen that is implicated as a causative agent of both human and animal disease.

Street vended food is expanding in developing countries, but the safety of the food provided is doubtful. Hence there is need for this trade to be regulated. One of the common ways of regulating them in the developing countries is through medical examination of food vendors, which some international agencies have condemned because of its inefficiency in controlling food contamination and food borne diseases. This study was done to determine medical examination practices among the food vendors and to see whether the practice ensures food safety. A cross-sectional study of 185 food vendors in 58 secondary schools within the study area was conducted using a structured questionnaire and a checklist. 141 (76.2%) respondents had medical test done prior to [not readable: see text] employment. The medical examination was requested for usually by the principals (51.9%), schoolteachers (37.8%) and the school clinic staffs [not readable: see text]). The test carried out on these vendors are physical examination, stool and urine examinations for parasites. Periodic medical examination among the vendors are low with only 30 (21.3%) of the 141 vendors having undergone periodic examinations. Majority of the respondents (77.5%) did not report to the school authorities or present at the school clinics when ill. Lack of fund and non-compulsion of medical examination by the school authorities were some of the reasons given by the respondents for not undergoing medical test. Present practice of medical examination among the food vendors is not enough to ensure food safety. There is need to improve on this practice, if the policy of routine medical examination for food vendors is to be useful in controlling food borne diseases.

1. The present study was designed to use the factorial approach to estimate protein requirements of Nigerian male adults by measuring obligatory nitrogen losses via urine, faeces and sweat when N intake was very low and energy intake adequate. 2. Eight adult men from Osegere village near Ibadan and seven medical students from the University of Ibadan, who volunteered to participate as subjects in the study, were given a low-protein diet (based on staple foods habitually consumed by subjects) for 10 d. Mean daily total protein intake was 4.68 g while that of energy was 0.2 MJ/kg body-weight. After an initial 5 d adaptation period, 24 h urine and faces were collected in marked containers for five consecutive days for N determination. N losses from the skin were also determined in the village adults. 3. Mean daily urinary, faecal and sweat N losses (mg N/kg body-weight) were 45.88 (SD4.84), 21.79 (SD4.19), and 7.46 (SD1.71) from the village adults. The corresponding urinary and faecal N losses from the university students were 43.45 (SD2.28) and 18.32 (SD4.66) (sweat N loss not measured). Thus the total daily obligatory N losses (per kg body-weight) from the village adults and university students were 75.13 and 69.23 mg N respectively (assuming a sweat N loss of 7.46 mg for the university students). After adjusting for requirement and making a 30% allowance for individual variability, the safe level of protein intake was calculated to be 0.78 and 0.73 g protein/kg body-weight for the village men and university students respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)