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Identifying the dissemination patterns and impacts of a virus of economic or health importance during a pandemic is crucial, as it informs the public on policies for containment in order to reduce the spread of the virus. In this study, we integrated genomic and travel data to investigate the emergence and spread of the B.1.1.318 and B.1.525 variants of interest in Nigeria and the wider Africa region. By integrating travel data and phylogeographic reconstructions, we find that these two variants that arose during the second wave emerged from within Africa, with the B.1.525 from Nigeria, and then spread to other parts of the world. Our results show how regional connectivity in downsampled regions like Africa can often influence virus transmissions between neighbouring countries. Our findings demonstrate the power of genomic analysis when combined with mobility and epidemiological data to identify the drivers of transmission in the region, generating actionable information for public health decision makers in the region.

The stiff competition between man and livestock for maize as energy feedstuff has resulted in the high cost of poultry products. Therefore, a study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding acha-based diet varying dietary plant protein to broiler chickens on carcass characteristic and organ proportions. A total of 120, one day-old Abor acre broiler chicks were used for the study in a Complete Randomized Design. Four dietary plant proteins were included in the broiler chicken diet at 28% level with an acha grain as the main energy source. Diet 1 contains 28% groundnut cake, while diets 2, 3 and 4 contain 28% of full fat soyabean, soyabean cake and cashew nut meal, respectively. The birds were randomly allotted to the 4 treatment groups, with each group having 30 birds which was further subdivided into 3 replicates of 10 birds each. This study lasted for 56 days. At the end of the feeding trial, carcass evaluation was carried out. One bird per replicate was randomly selected, starved overnight and slaughtered by severing the jugular vein. The visceral were removed and weighed. The results showed that birds fed dietary soyabean cake (Diet 3) had the highest live weight gain (2155.00g), slaughtered weight (1855.00g), defeathered weight (1838.33g), dressed weight (1455.00g) and shank (112.00g). The organ proportions showed significant differences (p

Conventional energy sources for poultry feed are scarce, expensive and highly competed for by man and industry in Nigeria which has resulted to subsequent high cost of feed and at times, poor quality of feed sold to farmers. Therefore, this study was carried out to evaluate the growth performance and feed cost benefit of broiler chickens fed various plant protein sources in acha grain based diet. A total of 120, one day-old Abor acre broiler chicks were procured and assigned in a Completely Randomized Design to four dietary treatments of three replicates and ten chicks per replicate. The four diets comprise soybean meal (full fat), soybean cake, groundnut cake and cashew nut meal at 28% inclusion level each in an acha based diet. Data on growth parameters (Daily feed intake, Final Weight Gain, Total Weight Gain, Feed-to-gain ratio and mortality) were collected daily and weekly. The results showed that the birds fed diet 3 having soyabean meal as the main plant protein source with 2700 Kcal/kg ME gave the best growth performance. It is also important to note that, the growth performance of birds fed diet 4 which had 28% cashew nut (full fat) had the poorest feed-togain ratio. The findings from this study further showed that using cashew nut (T4) as plant protein source in poultry (broiler chicken) ration is rather too expensive and production of cashew nut may have to increase so as to bring down the cost of production of broiler chicken. There was significant difference (P

This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of garlic rhizome powder on blood profile of broiler at different growth phases (starter and finisher phase). One hundred and twenty Abor acre broiler chicks were used for the study and the chicks were randomly distributed into four treatment groups and the treatment groups were then divided into different replicates with each replicate having 10 chicks i.e. 30 chicks in each treatment group. The garlic powder was included at different inclusion levels and the treatments were designed as T1: basal diet with no garlic powder, T2: basal diet supplemented with 0.5% garlic powder T3: basal diet supplemented with 1.0% garlic powder and T4 having 1.5% garlic powder. Starter diet was offered to the birds for the first four weeks of the feeding trial and finisher diet was also provided for the birds within 5th to 8th week. Daily feed intake and weekly body measurement were taken. At the end of the starter phase, blood was collected for haematological and serum biochemistry analysis also blood was collected for blood profile analysis at the seventh (8th) week of the experiment. The blood samples collected were analyzed for haematological parameters which include haemoglobin, Packed cell volume, Red blood cells, White blood cells, Mean corpuscular haemoglobin, Mean corpuscular volume, Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, heterophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and serum biochemical parameters which include Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase, Alkaline Phosphate, Cholesterol, Total protein, Albumin, Globulin, Uric acid and Creatinine. Results showed that the effect of feeding graded levels of garlic rhizome powder on the haematological and serum parameters were significant (P0.05) on the creatinine level. Therefore 1.5% inclusion of garlic should be added to broiler feed to enhance production of broiler lean meat with lowest cholesterol.

Fifty-six (56) days feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the response of feeding sundried mango seed kernel on the growth performance of Achatina fulica snails. The mango seeds kernel used as test ingredient was collected, cracked, sundried for two weeks and after which it was milled to obtain mango seed kernel meal. The mango seed kernel meal was used to formulate four experimental diets that meet the nutrient requirements of snails included at 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% respectively; designated Diet 1, Diet 2, Diet 3 and Diet 4. Diet 1 served as the control. One hundred and twenty (120) Achatina fulica snails of similar sizes were assigned to 4 dietary treatments and replicated 3 times in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. Each dietary treatment consisted of thirty (30) snails per treatment with ten (10) snails per replicate. Proximate composition of the mango seed kernel meal and the experimental diets were conducted to determine the nutrient contents of the mango seed kernel meal and that of the experimental diet. Data were collected on growth performance parameters. The data collected were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).Results showed that significant reduction (P

Considering the inherent attributes of processed African Yam bean meal (Sphenostylis stenocarpa), it's appropriate utilization for chicken diets may enhance performance of finisher broilers. The study was therefore carried out to determine the dietary substitution of soybean meal with processed African yam bean meal as protein source in the diets of finisher broilers. The Processed African yam bean meal was used to substitute soya bean meal at various levels to determine the best substitution that would give optimal performance in finisher broilers. The seeds of the African yam beans were soaked in water for 24 hours The soaked seeds were thereafter air dried for three days. The seeds were toasted for 35 minutes in a frying pan and milled using hammer mill. In the finisher feeding trial, the substitutions were 20%, 40%, 60% and 80% processed African yam bean meal respectively. Each finisher diet was fed to a group of 30 broilers for 4 weeks using completely randomized design. Each treatment group was divided into 3 replicates of 10 broilers chicks each. The finisher broilerswere kept in pens in deep litter and given feed and water ad libitum. The parameters measured included initial body weight, final body weight, feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, cost of production and carcass characteristics. The proximate composition of processed African yam bean meal showed that it contained 8.29% moisture, 91.71% Drymatter, 3.40% ash, 21.12% crude protein, 5% ether extract, 5.73% crude fiber and 56.4% nitrogen free extract. In the finisher feeding trial, the broiler group on 40% processed AYBM significantly (P0.05) which were significantly (P

Summary Background Mosquitoes are vectors of numerous diseases, including malaria and yellow fever. Mosquito control is therefore a priority in many countries, especially in healthcare settings. Here we investigated the opinions of patients and staff regarding mosquito control at a hospital in Nigeria, and also gathered data on mosquito-control measures in this setting. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire study of staff and patients and an observational approach to obtain data on mosquito-control measures used at a tertiary teaching hospital in Abakaliki, Nigeria. Discussion Both staff (N=517) and patients (N=302) reported experiencing more mosquito bites at the hospital than elsewhere. As well as contributing to discomfort, this exposure may put hospital staff and patients at risk of mosquito-borne infections. Complaints from patients about mosquitoes were reported by over 90% of staff, and over 50% of staff respondents were aware of patient discharge against medical advice due to mosquitoes. The most common control method was killing mosquitoes by hand. We observed a lack of door screens in all wards, window screens were absent or torn, and most beds did not have nets. In the children's wards none of the beds had nets. Conclusions Current measures against mosquitoes in this hospital appeared inadequate, and healthcare staff and hospital patients may be at increased risk of mosquito-borne infections. Mosquito control in the hospital requires attention, and the needs for improvement in mosquito control in the healthcare setting more widely should be evaluated and addressed.

This study evaluated the hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective and anti-lipid peroxidation properties of a methanol extract of Paullinia pinnata root-bark, in alloxan-induced hyperglycemic rats. The extract of P. pinnata root-bark was prepared using a cold maceration method with 80% methanol and concentrated at 40°C in hot air oven. The extract was administered once daily per os at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg for 21 consecutive days. Distilled water (5 mL/kg) and glibenclamide (2 mg/kg) were used as the vehicle and reference standard, respectively. The serum lipid profile, markers of liver and kidney functions, antioxidant status (malondialdehyde level, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities), histopathological changes in liver and kidney were examined 24h after the last treatment on day 21. The extract reduced serum lipid profile, markers of liver and kidney functions of treated rats relative to vehicle-treated rats. The superoxide dismutase and catalase activities of the extract treated rats were also elevated relative to the vehicle-treated rats. The extract reversed liver and kidney injuries induced by alloxan in the treated rats. This study provides some basic information which suggest that P. pinnata could be effective in managing diabetic complications.

This study was carried out to evaluate the haematological and blood biochemical parameters of broiler chickens fed graded levels of Roselle Seed Cake (RSC) diet as replacement for groundnut cake (GNC). Proximate composition of the test diet and experimental diets were conducted to determine their nutrient contents. Four diets were formulated for the broiler chickens. The Diet 1 served as the control diet while diets 2, 3 and 4 contained 8%, 16% and 24% with Roselle seed cake (RSC) diets respectively as replacement for groundnut cake (GNC). A total of 120, one day-old Ross broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments with four replicates and each treatment consisted of 30 birds in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Feed and water were provided for the birds ad libitum. The blood parameters measured are haemoglobin, packed cell volume, red blood cell, white blood cell, heteropils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils and band cell. The results from the parameters measured for blood quality showed no significant (P?0.05) differences for haemoglobin level, packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell (WBC), across the treatments. But the red blood cell (RBC), heterophils and lymphocytes had a significant difference across the dietary treatments and this implies that Roselle seed cake (RSC) inclusions in the diets of the birds had a positive effect on the oxygen carrying capacity, immunity level and antibodies producing capacity of the birds. The blood biochemical parameters measured are total protein, albumin, cholesterol, creatinine, triglycerides, HDL and LDL. The parameters measured showed no significant (P?0.05) differences in total protein (TP), creatinine, high density level (HDL) and low density level (LDL) across dietary treatment while albumin and cholesterol had significant differences (p>0.05) across the dietary treatments. RSC can replace GNC at 16% dietary inclusion levels.

A hundred and twenty (120) growing Achatina fulica snail were used to assess the impact of sundried mango seed kernel meal (MSKM) on the haemolymph and mineral composition of Achatina fulica. The mango seed kernel meal used as test ingredient were collected, cracked and the kernel sundried for two weeks after which it was milled into a fine powder. Four dietary treatments were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of snails. The mango seed kernel meal was included at 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%, representing Diet 1, Diet 2, Diet 3 and Diet 4 respectively. Diet 1 served as the control. Snails of similar weights were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments and replicated three (3) times in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. Each dietary treatment consisted of thirty (30) snails per treatment with ten (10) snails per replicate. The snails were fed ad libitum. At the end of the 56 days feeding trial, four (4) snails sampled from each replicate were randomly selected for haemolymph and mineral analysis. Data collected on different parameters were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that there were significant differences (p

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of mango seed kernel meal on the growth performance ofArchachatinamarginata fed diets containing varying levels of mango seed kernel meal. A total of hundred and twenty (120) growing snails of similar sizes were randomly assigned to four treatments designated T1 , T2 , T3 and T4 and replicated three times in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each dietary treatment consisted of thirty (30) snails per treatment with ten (10) snails per replicate. The mango seed kernel meal used as test ingredient were collected, cracked and the kernel sundried for two weeks after which it was milled into a fine powder. Four experimental diets were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of snails included at 0% mango seed kernel meal (T1 ), 5% mango seed kernel meal (T2 ), 10% mango seed kernel meal (T3 ) and 15% mango seed kernel meal (T4 ) respectively. T served as the control. The snails were fed once a day during the evening hours and adequately managed during this period. The feeding trial lasted for eight weeks. Proximate composition of the mango seed kernel meal and the experimental diets were conducted to determine the nutrient contents of the mango seed kernel meal and that of the experimental diet. The feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), weight gain, shell length, shell aperture circumference, shell circumference, suture increase, shell thickness and specific growth rate were monitored and recorded. The data collected were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that there were no significant (P0.05) differences on the feed intake (29.58g in T1 to 27.54g in T4 ),weight gain (10.14g in T1 to 9.50g T2 ), shell length (9.17cmin T2 to 9.03 cmin T1 ), shell aperture (6.50cm in T2 to 6.35cm in T1 ), shell circumference (10.88cm in T2 to 10.65cm in T4 ), suture (3.37cm in T4 to 3.33cm in T2 ), shell thickness (2.22cm in T1 to 1.94cm in T2 ) and specific growth rate. Therefore, it could be concluded that mango seed kernel meal can be included up to 15% in the diet of Archachatina marginata without any adverse effect on their growth performance.

Proximate analysis of mango seed kernel shows that it is high in carbohydrate and contains other essential minerals. Thus, this experiment was conducted to assess the impact of mango seed kernel mea on l the haemolymph of giant African land snail (Archachatina marginata). One hundred and twenty (120) Archachatina marginata grower snails of similar sizes were randomly assigned to four treatments designated T1, T2 , T3 and T4 and replicated three times in a completely randomized design (CRD).Each dietary treatment consisted of thirty (30) snails per treatment with ten (10) snails per replicate. The mango seed kernel meal used as test ingredient were collected, cracked and the kernel sundried for two weeks after which it was milled into a fine powder. Four experimental diets were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of snails included at 0% mango seed kernel meal (T1 ), 5% mango seed kernel meal (T2 ), 10% mango seed kernel meal (T3) and 15% mango seed kernel meal (T4 ), respectively. T1 served as the control. The snails were fed once a day during the evening hours and adequately managed during this period. The feeding trial lasted for eight weeks. Proximate composition of the mango seed kernel meal and that of the experimental diets were conducted to determine the nutrient contents of the mango seed kernel meal and the experimental diets respectively. The proximate composition and the mineral content of the haemolymph of Archachatina marginata were also analyzed. The analysis of the proximate composition of mango seed kernel meal indicated that it is high in carbohydrate (58.6%), 13.72% moisture, 4.00% ash, 5.64% crude fiber, 15.94%fat, and 2.1% crude protein; which implies that it can be used as a carbohydrate source. The inclusion of mango seed kernel meal in the diets ofArchachatina marginata significantly (P

One hundred (50 males and 50 females) B-not strain indigenous turkeys, Meleagris gallopavo, were used to determine the reference values for their haematological parameters. The turkeys were housed in the poultry unit and jugular venepunctures were used to collect their blood. The haematological parameters were determined using standard procedures. The mean values of: the packed cell volume (PCV; 37.29 ± 0.37 %), red blood cell (RBC) counts (2.50 ± 0.44 × 106.µl−1), haemoglobin concentration (Hbc; 10.89 ± 0.34 g.dl−1), mean corpuscular volume (MCV; 150.63 ± 0.73 fl), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH; 44.29 ± 1.78 pg), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC; 29.10 ± 0.73 g.dl−1), and white blood cell (WBC) counts (12.41 ± 0.83 × 103 µl−1) were determined. No significant differences were found between the male and female B-not strain turkeys in this study. The results will help in the interpretation of cases of disease when there are variations in the values and serve as baseline data for B-not strain of turkeys in the humid tropics.

The study evaluated the response of two generations of random and inbred Wistar albino rats to the ulcerogenic effects of indomethacin. A total of 144 rats (age: 12 to 14 weeks) belonging to two generations (G) and two breeding groups (36 rats/group) were used for the study. The animals in each group were assigned to three treatments: 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg of indomethacin per os and then fasted of food (48 h) and water (2 h) prior to treatment. The rats were sacrificed 2 h post treatment; the stomach and its content was harvested for evaluation of ulcer lesion and gastric acidity. Ulcer index (UI) and gastric acidity (GA) were compared between doses of indomethacin for breeding groups, within and between generations, and for sex of rats within breeding groups and generations. Results showed significant (p < 0.05) effect of dose on UI in G1 randombred rats, and GA in G1 and G2 inbred rats. Effect of sex was significant (p < 0.05) in G1 inbred rats. Rats belonging to G2 generation had higher UI but lower GA than G1 rats. It was concluded that inbreeding enhances the sensitivity of albino rats to toxic effects of indomethacin. Thus inbred rather than randombred rats could be better materials in assessing the toxicity of pharmaceuticals, and chemical agents.Keywords: Inbred rats, random bred rats, indomethacin, toxicity tests, ulcer index

The leaves of Anacardium occidentale are used in folkloric medicine for the management of gastrointestinal disorders. This study evaluated the gastroprotective properties of methanol extract of A. occidentale leaf against ethanol- and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers. Cold maceration method was used in the preparation of methanol extract of A. occidentale leaf. The extract was concentrated under reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator. The gastroprotective effects of the methanol extract of A. occidentale was tested at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg against ethanol and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer. Omeprazole and misoprostol were used as the positive controls for the ethanol and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer models respectively while distilled water was used as the negative control. The effects of the extract on histamine receptor were also evaluated on isolated rabbit jejunum. The extract significantly (p < 0.05) reduced ulcer index in the treated rats relative to the negative control. The effects of the extract were comparable with the effects of the reference drugs. The extract relaxed spontaneously contracting rabbit jejunum and inhibited histamine induced contraction of rabbit jejunum. This study suggests a pharmacological basis for the folkloric use of Anacardium occidentale in the management of gastric ulcer.Keywords: Anacardium occidentale; ulcer; ethanol; indomethacin; misoprotol; omeprazole

A study was conducted using one hundred and twenty day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks to evaluate blood and serum chemistry response of broiler chickens fed direct fed microbes The birds were obtained from a reputable hatchery and randomly assigned to four dietary treatments, each with three replicates of ten birds per treatment. The treatments were T1, T2, T3 and T4, the levels of inclusion of direct fed microbes (DFM) were 0%, 2.5%, 5.0% and 7.5% respectively. The birds were assigned to these treatment diets, feed and water was given ad libitum throughout the duration of the experiment which lasted for 56 days. The experimental design was Completely Randomized Design (CRD). At the end of the experiment blood samples were collected from the broilers and taken to the laboratory for hematological and serum chemistry analysis. The hematological characteristics of the broiler shows that there was no significant (P>0.05) in haemoglobin (Hb), Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red Blood Cell (RBC), White Blood Cell (WBC), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC). The WBC portrayed decreasing trend as the level of DFM increased, also the Hb, MCV and MCH portrayed an increasing trend as the DFM increased in the treatment diet up to the 5% inclusion level. The serum chemistry result shows that there was a significant difference (P0.05) was observed in serum albumin, glucose, urea and creatinine. From the result it could be concluded that birds fed diet 2 performed better as they compete favourably with the control. Birds fed diet 2 also had a balanced physiological system.Keywords: Direct Fed Microbe, Growth Performance and Broiler birds

A study using (120) Abor acre broilers was conducted to assess impact of abattoir waste --BBRCM (bovine blood and rumen content mixture) on the carcass characteristics; internal organs and organoleptic properties of broilers. One hundred and twenty (120) birds were randomly assigned to four treatments replicated three times in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Four experimental diets were formulated to meet the nutrient requirement of broilers such that the birds were fed sun-dried abattoir waste (bovine blood and rumen content mixture) included at 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% representing treatment 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively, with treatment 1 as the control. Each treatment consisted of 30 birds with 10 birds per replicate. The experimental diets and clean water were supplied throughout the experimental period. At the end of the 56 days feeding trial, four (4) birds from replicate were randomly selected for carcass characteristics, organ weight measurements and organoleptic properties assessment. The birds were slaughtered, de-feathered and eviscerated. The breast meat was cooked for 20mins. The cooked meat was cut into smaller pieces and labeled according to their respective treatments and presented to 10 panelist provided with a questionnaire that addressed the organoleptic properties (taste, juiciness, tenderness, flavor, color and acceptability) after preliminary training of the panelists. The proximate composition of the abattoir waste showed that its moisture content, crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber, ash and NFE were found to be 9.34%, 35.35%, 3.60%, 15.67%, 10.98%, and 25.06% respectively. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results showed significant differences (P0.05) on the organoleptic properties of broilers fed the experimental diets. Therefore, feeding broilers with abattoir wastes could reduce feed cost in broiler production.Keywords: Rumen content, Abattoir waste, Organoleptic, Broiler, Organ and Carcass

ΔΕΝ ΥΠΑΡΧΕΙ ΠΕΡΙΛΗΨΗ, This study evaluated the serum biochemistry profile of apparently healthy B-not strain of indigenous turkeys and determined the influence of sex on parameters. A total of 50 apparently healthy B-not strain of turkeys of either sex were studied. The turkeys were kept in the animal house at the College of Veterinary Medicine in Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein and standard procedures were followed in all the serum biochemistry parameters determined. The overall mean for the serum biochemistry parameters were as follows: alkaline phosphatase (ALP): 207.71 ± 2.93 IU/L, aspartate amino transferase (AST): 82.51 ± 1.13 IU/L, alanine amino transferase (ALT): 8.80 ± 0.83 IU/L, total protein: 3.69 ± 0.18 g/dl, albumin: 1.94 ± 0.54 g/dl, globulin: 1.75 ± 0.14 g/dl, cholesterol: 140.82 ± 5.28, bilirubin: 0.37 ± 0.07 mg/dl, urea: 4.29 ± 0.30 mg/dl, creatinine: 0.31 ± 0.38 mg/dl, triglycerides: 107.95 ± 7.55 mg/dl and glucose: 140.33 ± 0.52 mg/dl. In comparison to the female turkeys, the males had significant lower (p < 0.05) urea, cholesterol and triglycerides levels. It is thought that the baseline biochemical values will help veterinarians to interpret serum profile of sick animals and assist researchers in interpreting laboratory data.

The leaves of Anacardium occidentale are used in folkloric medicine for the management of gastrointestinal disorders. This study evaluated the gastroprotective properties of methanol extract of A. occidentale leaf against ethanol- and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers. Cold maceration method was used in the preparation of methanol extract of A. occidentale leaf. The extract was concentrated under reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator. The gastroprotective effects of the methanol extract of A. occidentale was tested at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg against ethanol and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer. Omeprazole and misoprostol were used as the positive controls for the ethanol and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer models respectively while distilled water was used as the negative control. The effects of the extract on histamine receptor were also evaluated on isolated rabbit jejunum. The extract significantly (p < 0.05) reduced ulcer index in the treated rats relative to the negative control. The effects of the extract were comparable with the effects of the reference drugs. The extract relaxed spontaneously contracting rabbit jejunum and inhibited histamine induced contraction of rabbit jejunum. This study suggests a pharmacological basis for the folkloric use of Anacardium occidentale in the management of gastric ulcer. Keywords: Anacardium occidentale ; ulcer; ethanol; indomethacin; misoprotol; omeprazole

In a survey at the Maiduguri metropolitan abattoir in northeastern Nigeria, between August and November 2009, Oesophagostomum columbianum nodules were found on the intestines of 702 (71.3 %) Sahel goats out of 984 examined. The nodules were predominantly located in the large intestines of most of the goats (96.4 %), but in heavy infections (3.6 %), the nodules extended into the small intestines and the omentum. The presence of nodules did not significantly (P > 0.05) increase the weight of the intestines of infected goats. Grossly the nodules were young (60 %), purulent (30 %) or calcified (10 %). Histologically the nodules appeared as granulomas with one or multiple necrotic foci. The infiltrating cells associated with the granulomas were eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, epithelioid macrophages and lymphocytes, but no multinucleated giant cell was found. The intestinal epithelium adjacent to the granuloma had intense lymphocytic infiltration into the lamina propria, necrosis and sloughing of the epithelial cells, stunting of the expanded villi and fewer intestinal glands. It was concluded that natural O. columbianum infection of Sahel goats was prevalent in the area and the infection caused non-suppurative enteritis associated with submucosal nodules which were granulomas lacking giant cells.

This study evaluated the serum biochemistry profile of apparently healthy B-not strain of indigenous turkeys and determined the influence of sex on parameters. A total of 50 apparently healthy B-not strain of turkeys of either sex were studied. The turkeys were kept in the animal house at the College of Veterinary Medicine in Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein and standard procedures were followed in all the serum biochemistry parameters determined. The overall mean for the serum biochemistry parameters were as follows: alkaline phosphatase (ALP): 207.71 ± 2.93 IU/L, aspartate amino transferase (AST): 82.51 ± 1.13 IU/L, alanine amino transferase (ALT): 8.80 ± 0.83 IU/L, total protein: 3.69 ± 0.18 g/dl, albumin: 1.94 ± 0.54 g/dl, globulin: 1.75 ± 0.14 g/dl, cholesterol: 140.82 ± 5.28, bilirubin: 0.37 ± 0.07 mg/dl, urea: 4.29 ± 0.30 mg/dl, creatinine: 0.31 ± 0.38 mg/dl, triglycerides: 107.95 ± 7.55 mg/dl and glucose: 140.33 ± 0.52 mg/dl. In comparison to the female turkeys, the males had significant lower (p < 0.05) urea, cholesterol and triglycerides levels. It is thought that the baseline biochemical values will help veterinarians to interpret serum profile of sick animals and assist researchers in interpreting laboratory data.

Background: Surgical intervention is currently indicated for patients with BMI >40 or >35 with life-threatening comorbidities. Patients with BMI 32-40 without these comorbidities not only have the increased propensity to develop them but also suffer from similar psychosocioeconomic consequences. These patients may not respond to non-surgical treatment of obesity any better than those with BMI>40. The question has been raised whether to offer them surgical intervention. Methods: A study was carried out to determine outcome of surgery on patients with BMI >32 but

The objective of this study was to develop an experimental albino rat (Rattus norvegicus) model for studies on sub-acute blood loss anaemia. A total of 160 albino rats of either sexes, between the ages of 10 and 12 weeks were used for the study. One hundred and thirty of the rats were randomly assigned into thirteen groups (groups 1 – 13) of ten each for the first experiment. Baseline values of the haematological indices were determined before the commencement of the study. Rats in group 1 were not bled and served as control. Blood (1 or 2 ml/100g body weight) was removed for specified periods of time from the remaining 12 groups (groups 2 – 13). At the end of the specified period of bleeding for each group, the haematological indices were re-assessed in order to select which group met the target of halving the red blood cell (RBC) count, haemoglobin concentration (Hb) and packed cell volume (PCV) with minimal stress. The selected group was tested for reproducibility in experiment 2 using the remaining thirty rats randomly assigned into three groups (A, B and C). Results showed that in experiment 1, the PCV, Hb and RBC counts of the rat groups that were bled (groups 2 – 13) decreased significantly (p0.05) differ from each other and from that recorded in experiment 1 for the group 12 male rats. Based on the results of the study, removal of 2ml of blood/100g body weight from 10 – 12 weeks old male albino rats everyother day for 20 days was recommended for the induction of experimental sub-acute blood loss anaemia.Keywords: Anaemia, Sub-acute blood loss, Albino rat, Rattus norvegicus, Model

The paucity of information on the prevalence of haemoparasites in livestock in Ikwuano L.G.A. of Abia state, the seat of the University of Agriculture Umudike necessitated the study. Out of 639 samples analyzed 141 were males and 498 females and out of these 243(38.0%) were positive for haemoparasites. The prevalence was higher in females 199(40.0%) compared to males 44(31.2%). Goats/sheep had the highest prevalence in Babesia 214 (88.1%); Anaplasma 76 (31.3%) and Trypanosomes 18 (7.4%). Prevalence in cattle was Babesia 209 (86.0%); Anaplasma 75 (31.0%) and Trypanosomes 0 (0.0%). Zero prevalence was recorded in pigs. The highest prevalence was recorded in the month of November 108(64.0%) and December 42 (65.0%) and. Others were March 55 (44.0%); April 20 (35.1%), May 5 (14.3%), June 7 (14.3%), July 3 (5.0%) and August 3 (4.0%). There were significant decreases (P>0.05) in pack cell volume and hemoglobin concentration of all the infected animals compared to the control.

Background: No bariatric operation has been documented to effect adequate weight loss in all patients. Patients with inadequate weight loss or significant weight regain with an anatomically intact short-limb gastric bypass, of which the Fobi pouch operation (FPO) for obesity is a modification, are usually revised to a distal Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (DRYGBP) to enhance weight loss. Method: A retrospective review of the charts of all patients who had a revision to a DRYGBP at our Center during an 8-year period was carried out and the findings analyzed. Results: 65 patients who had the FPO had a revision to the DRYGBP.Most were super obese patients who, even though they had lost significant weight, were still morbidly obese. Some were patients who had not lost adequate weight or

Background The effect of transecting vs. stapling the stomach in continuity in the banded gastric bypass (GBP) operation was studied. Method 50 patients, 25 in each group, were enrolled into a prospective study to determine if transecting the stomach vs. stapling it in continuity in performing GBP for obesity decreases the incidence of gastro-gastric fistula formation without increased morbidity. Results The patient profiles in the 2 groups were very similar. The peri-operative complications included 1 splenic capsular injury in each group, controlled without a splenectomy. There was 1 anastomotic leak in the stapled and 1 bleeding from the cut edge of the bypassed stomach in the transected group, both requiring re-operations in the immediate postoperative period. There was no peri-operative mortality. The percent follow-up after 6 years was 80% and 88% in the stapled and transected groups respectively. The incidence of late complications of solid food intolerance, ventral incisional hernia, cholelithiasis and small bowel obstruction was similar in both groups. There were 8 gastro-gastric fistulas in the stapled group and 1 in the transected group. The reduction in body mass index and percent excess weight loss (66%) were similar in both groups. Conclusion The incidence of gastro-gastric fistula may be reduced in GBP procedures by transecting the stomach as opposed to stapling it in continuity, without an increase in morbidity or mortality or any loss in the effectiveness of the operation.

Background: Many patients who qualify for obesity surgery have a moderate to large panniculus (grade 1-5). They can benefit from panniculectomy done concurrently with gastric bypass (GBP) or subsequently after significant weight reduction, usually 18 months after the GBP. Method: Over the last 8 years, 2,231 bariatric operations were performed at the Center. 577 panniculectomies were done, with 428 (74.2%) concurrent with the GBP and 149 (25.8%) subsequent to the GBP. Results:The redundant pannus weighed from 5 to 54.5 kg. Wound problems occured in 15.1% of panniculectomies. Transfusion was necessary in 1.9%. Hospital stay was 4 to 5 days, and was no greater than in patients that underwent the GBP alone. Those with grades 3-5 suffer more back-pain and problems of hygiene resulting from panniculitis. Conclusion: A very redundant panniculus compounds the patient's physical, social and emotional problems. Where cardiopulmonary and other medical status are satisfactory,a panniculectomy may be offered to patients with a symptomatic panniculus at the time of bariatric surgery, as a physically beneficial and cost-effective adjuvant.

Out of 503 dogs samples analyzed 104 were males and 303 females and out of these 359 (71.4%) were positive for haemoparasites. Babesia spps (94.4%) had the highest prevalence compared to Trypanosomes 5.0% and Anaplasma spps 45.0%. Most of the dogs had mixed infections of Babesia and Anaplasma spps. The prevalence was higher in females 76.3% compared to males 54.0%. Out of the areas sampled, MOUAU community had 20.0%, Oboro 91.4%, Oloko 8.0%, Ibere 18.0%, Ariam 59.0% and Usaka 58.3%. The highest prevalence was recorded in December (90.0%), March (83.3%) and November (83.3%) whilst the remainder of the months had April (77.1%); May (70.0%); June (68.0%); July (63.3%) and August (53.1%). There were significant decreases in the PCV and Hb of the infected groups.

Background: Morbid obesity is one of the major risk factors for gallbladder disease, and this risk is even greater following rapid weight loss. Because of this, prophylactic cholecystectomy has been offered to our patients undergoing the transected silastic ring vertical Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (TSRVRYGBP). A study was undertaken to determine the incidence of pathologic gallbladders in patients undergoing this prophylactic cholecystectomy. Method: The records of all patients who underwent TSRVRYGBP from June 1999 through December 2000 were reviewed. Pathologic findings of the gallbladder were documented as cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, cholesterolosis, polyps or normal. Results: 761 patients underwent the operation. 178 patients (23%) had cholecystectomy before the surgery. 154 (20%) had gallstones documented by ultrasound and had cholecystectomy at the time of the surgery. 324 of the 429 patients with negative preoperative findings by ultrasound had pathologic evidence of gallbladder disease. Conclusion: Because of the high incidence of gallbladder disease even with negative preoperative findings in morbidly obese patients and the lack of significant morbidity with cholecystectomy in experienced hands, routine cholecystectomy at the time of the weight loss operation is justified.