TROPICAL VETERINARIAN is an international journal devoted to all aspects of veterinary science as practiced in the tropics, including livestock production and management, animal disease (domestic and wild), various aspects of preventive medicine and public health and basic and applied research in these areas.
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan. Ibadan, Nigeria
Post-parturient uterine prolapse in a Yankassa ewe presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan
Abstract A two (2) years old Yankassa ewe, weighing 25 kg, was presented with a history of having a protruding tissue from the vulva after lambing of less than 12 hours duration to the University of Ibadan Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Ibadan. On close examination, the uterus was seen protruding from the vulva with no placenta and no laceration. Uterine prolapse was diagnosed following the observation of exposed caruncles. Management of the uterine prolapse was by size reduction and replacement. Size reduction of the prolapsed uterus was achieved using sugar solution and a cold pack after the organ had been properly rinsed with clean water containing the antiseptic – Dettol®. On achieving size reduction, the organ was replaced back to its normal anatomical position in the pelvic cavity, beginning from the portion closest to the vulva lips. Epidural anaesthetic was not given because there were no visible signs of straining prior to and during uterine replacement. Colostrum was expressed from the dam and was fed to the lamb. Antibiotic therapy was instituted by giving Amoxicillin 15mg/kg intramuscularly stat, and orally for 5 days consecutively and Oxytocin 10 IU intramuscularly to aid uterine involution. The dam recovered successfully. This shows that timely presentation and effective management of uterine prolapse cases could lead to a good prognosis. We therefore advocate that livestock owners should always present reproductive problems early for proper intervention by Theriogenologists.
Effects of leaf extracts of Acanthus montanus (Acanthaceae) on faecal egg output of Heligmosomoides bakeri (Nematoda, Heligmosomatidae) in mice
Abstract Acanthus montanus Nees T. Anderson (Acanthaceae) is a well-established remedy in folk medicine, effectively treating various ailments, particularly gastrointestinal helminth infections. This study involved seventy (70) worm-free mice intentionally infected with the third larval stage (L3) of the Heligmosomoides bakeri parasite. To assess the effectiveness of treatments, mice were divided into fourteen groups of five, fifteen days post-infection, after the crucial pre-patent period of 13.5 days. Each group received an oral treatment of crude ethanolic extract (CEE), aqueous extract (AQ), or n-butanol (BUT) from A. montanus leaves. The extracts were given at increasing doses of 1,200 mg/kg, 1,400 mg/kg, 1,700 mg/kg, and 2,000 mg/kg over five days for twelve groups, thereby allowing for a thorough evaluation of their therapeutic potential. Albendazole (ABZ) acted as the positive control, while distilled water (DW) acted as the negative control. Faecal pellets were collected and analysed to evaluate deparasitization rates based on faecal egg output. In all the groups of mice experimentally infected with H. bakeri and treated with A. montanus extracts, there was a dose-dependent reduction in the daily and mean faecal egg output. The BUT portion caused significant deparasitization at 1,400 mg/kg to 2,000 mg/kg compared to figures from distilled water-treated (DW) control and those from AQ or CEE portions. The deparasitization rates in BUT-treated mice ranged from 69.24±10.35% to 73.63±10.31%, showing no significant difference (p>0.05) compared to the 88.91±10.45% rate achieved with albendazole at 10 mg/kg. This study demonstrates that the n-butanol extract of A. montanus leaves significantly reduces faecal egg output of H. bakeri in mice, warranting further investigation into its potential applications for treating infections in livestock and humans.
Ameliorative effects of aqueous and methanol extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx (Zobo) on haematology and lipid profile of Wistar rats exposed to lead-induced toxicity
Abstract Exposure to lead toxicity has been reported to cause harmful effects to humans and animals, with the most deleterious effects on the haematopoietic cells. In this study, therefore, the potential ameliorative effects of a local plant extract, Hibiscus sabdariffa (Zobo), on lead toxicity were evaluated. Forty-two 6-week-old male Wistar rats with an average weight of 140g were used for the study. The rats were divided into 7 groups of 6 rats per group. Group A, served as the control, received only distilled water. Group B received 100 mg/kg of lead acetate only, while Group C received 100 mg/kg of lead acetate and 200 mg/kg of aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa. Group D received 100 mg/kg of lead acetate and 400 mg/kg of aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa, Group E received 100 mg/kg of lead acetate and 50 mg/kg of Hibiscus sabdariffa methanol extract while Group F received 100 mg/kg of lead acetate and 100 mg/kg of Hibiscus sabdariffa methanol extract, Group G was given 100 mg/kg of lead acetate and 100 mg/dL of ascorbic acid, concurrently, per os per day for 28 days by gastric gavage. Blood samples were collected at days 14 and 28 for haematology, erythrocyte osmotic fragility and plasma biochemistry. The results showed that 200 mg/kg of aqueous extracts and 50 and 100 mg/kg of methanol Hibiscus sabdariffa ameliorated anaemia (haematinic activity), lymphocytosis and increased erythrocytes' osmotic fragility caused by both acute and subacute lead toxicity. The results from plasma biochemistry confirmed the antilipidaemic and anticholesterolaemic effects of the extracts. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that lead toxicity induced anaemia, dyslipidaemia and hypercholesterolaemia, which were ameliorated by low doses of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx (Zobo) extracts.
Some Morphometric and Radiological Features of the African Bush Fowl (Francolinus bicalcaratus): Insights for Domestication and Conservation Strategies
Abstract The Double-Spurred Francolin (Francolinus bicalcaratus), or the African Bush Fowl, is a keystone savannah species. The bird is edible but faces threats from habitat loss and hunting pressure despite being economically valuable to several populations. This calls for concern about research and methods in supporting conservation and population viability measures. The significance of environmental requirements and population monitoring in ensuring conservation measures is brought out by earlier research work conducted on the other francolin species. The gastrointestinal ecology and health of free-living birds depend on gastrointestinal transit time (GIT) and radiology examinations. While GIT transit time affects a bird's diet, foraging habits, and nutrient absorption, radiology is used to detect gastrointestinal disease and illustrate food transit. When used together, these tests give a complete picture of the digestive system of free-living birds, which can be used to guide conservation and wildlife management strategies. This information can be utilized to conserve wild bird species by informing habitat, diet, and population management. This study explores the anatomical and radiological diameter of the GI tract of the African Bush Fowl on radiographs. Prior to radiography, in which ten adult African Bush Fowls (five males and five females) were immobilized and anesthetized, prior to being humanely put down, there was plain radiography for GIT measurement in size and GI transit times analysis on contrast-enhanced images. Morphometric measurement was used to measure and quantify the digestive organs after euthanasia. The presence of grit required for processing food was demonstrated via the mineral composition of the crop and gizzard. This might also be attributed to ingestion of grain by birds. In comparison to photographs, the transit time of GI was on average forty minutes. A correlation between carcass weight and organosomatic marker or GI tract linear measurement did not exist. This is in agreement with some research in fish and mammals indicating that any-sized animals are able to adapt the morphophysiology of the digestive system. Such independence may be initiated by the environment, adaptive evolutionary mechanisms, or large-scale differences in individual variation. To gain complete appreciation of such mechanisms and how they impact domestication and conservation plans, more studies are required.
A survey of farm-level biosecurity practices of pig farmers in selected communities affected by African Swine Fever in Umuahia South, Abia State, Nigeria
African Swine Fever (ASF) is a transboundary viral infection, that affects domestic and wild pigs with severe socio-economic impact. Nigeria, including Abia State, has witnessed substantial sporadic ASF outbreaks in recent years. Accordingly, the lack of an approved vaccine necessitates strict biosecurity as the only effective tool for preventing ASF in domestic pig farms. This study aimed to determine spatial point locations of pig farms and evaluate the level of biosecurity measures in commercial pig farms located in Umuahia South. A cross-sectional survey of 180 pig farms was conducted, and primary data were collected through face-to-face interviews with farmers and field observation. Spatial point locations of pig farms were captured using Global Positioning System (GPS). Numerical and spatial data were analysed with Stata 14 and ESRI’s ArcGIS 10.8. The survey results showed that 80% (144/180) of the farms had experienced outbreaks, and 98% (113/115) of neighbouring farms reported outbreaks following an outbreak on a nearby farm. The proportion of biosecurity measures, including selling pigs on the farm (95%, 112/118), confirming outbreaks by personal judgment (80%, 76 /95), and practising extensive farming (84%, 78/180), was high; however, the differences were not statistically significant. Furthermore, the proximity analysis at 750m, 1000m and 1500m distance radii around 120 pig farms showed that more than 90% of the farms fell within the distance radius, which violates the 3km biosecurity zone and also, reflects the rurality of the study area. In conclusion, the spatial aggregation of farms, coupled with the practice of extensive or semi-intensive farming systems in the study area, supports the continuous dissemination of the ASF virus among domestic pig populations that frequently interact. These conditions make it challenging to implement conventional biosecurity measures effectively.
Fetal characteristics of slaughtered pregnant cows at different stages of gestation at the Ibadan Central Abattoir
Abstract The surge in human population has increased the need for more cattle and their products as a source of food and other human needs. Unfortunately, fetal wastage due to the slaughter of pregnant cattle is a bane to achieving this. The present study aims to provide information on fetal characteristics of slaughtered pregnant cows at different stages of gestation. Two hundred and ten (210) fetuses from seven breeds of slaughtered pregnant cows at different stages of gestation were collected from Ibadan Central Abattoir between June and August 2019. Fetal morphometry was done using the tape rule and Vernier calliper, while the gestational age of the fetuses was determined using the formula X = 2.5 (CRL + 21) days, where X is the gestational age, CRL is the crown-rump length in centimetres. Twenty-seven (27) samples of amniotic fluid were collected from slaughtered pregnant cows for progesterone assay and biochemical tests using standard procedures. Fetal wastage and economic assessments were carried out. Fetal crown-rump length and eye-socket length show the highest (R2 crown-rump length = 0.999) and least (R2 eye-socket length = 0.851) relationship with age of gestation. The association between age and fetal morphometry in all the breeds was significant, where the R2 value among all breeds was found to be 1.00, except for the Sokoto Gudali breed (R2 = 0.996). Red Bororo shows the strongest positive relationship between the age of gestation and the biparietal diameter (R2 = 0.979). Progesterone levels were high in the first and third trimesters. The potassium level increased non-significantly with the age of gestation. Contrarily, the total protein, albumin, sodium, and glucose levels decreased, though non-significantly, with age of gestation. There was a huge fetal wastage and high economic loss, valued at ₦13,650,000 monthly. Fetal characteristics remain a reliable biometric parameter in the determination of gestation age in cattle, and fetal wastage due to pregnant cattle slaughter has negative reproductive and economic implications.
Errata: Tropical Vet. 39 (2), 52 Comparison of Xylazine/Tramadol and Xylazine/Pentazocine for Sedation and Analgesia in Dogs
Abstract The effects of intramuscular administration of xylazine (1 mg/kg) -atropine (0.04 mg/kg) combined either with tramadol 4mg/kg or pentazocine 2 mg/kg were evaluated for quality of sedation and changes in physiological parameters over a 60 minute period in 5 intact Nigerian indigenous dogs of both sexes with mean body weight of 10.2 ± 1.5 kg (mean ± Standard deviation). Pentazocine demonstrated appreciable analgesia in combination with xylazine. Analgesia was produced in all the dogs with the xylazine-pentazocine combination compared with only 2 dogs with the xylazine-tramadol combination and one dog with xylazine alone. Onset and duration of analgesia with the xylazine-pentazocine group were 6.8 ± 3.3 and 31.2 ±7.1min respectively. Onset of sedation and time to sleep with xylazine-tramadol (12.2 ± 3.3 min and 16.8 min) were significantly longer (p < 0.05) than with xylazine alone (6.0 ± 3.4 min and 10.6±2.4 min) and with xylazine-pentazocine (5.8 ± 1.9 min and 8±2.3 min). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the sleep time of the dogs with the three treatments: xylazine (41.4±9.3min); xylazine-tramadol (39.8±9.2 min), but xylazine- pentazocine (45.0±3.3min) had the longest sleep time. The times to stand with xylazine-tramadol and xylazine-pentazocine were significantly shorter (p < 0.05) than with xylazine alone. Peak sedation occurred by the 20th and 30th minute in all the dogs with the three treatments. Heart and respiratory rates, systolic, diastolic, mean arterial blood pressure and rectal temperature were within physiological range with the three treatment groups. It was concluded that xylazine-pentazocine produced the preferred quality of sedation and is therefore recommended for minor procedures associated with pain or premedication in dogs.
Health indices of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) inhabiting selected polluted streams in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Environmental pollutants, such as heavy metal contamination in water sources, especially groundwater and surface water, have been documented to have various health impacts on humans and animals. In the study, samples were collected from forty African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) harvested (n=10) from three selected polluted rivers (Eleyele, Oluyole, Dandaru Rivers) and a reference Fish farm (Fol-Hope Limited, Ibadan). Water samples were also collected from all the sites and analyzed for heavy metals. Based on previous findings, the water source of the reference fish farm was free from industrial discharge or contaminants that could cause pollution. Haematology, erythrocyte osmotic fragility test (OFT), heavy metal determination, in vivo micronucleus assay, and histopathology were determined. The results showed significantly lower RBC, PCV, and Hb values (P<0.05)). In contrast, MCV and MCH values increased in blood samples of catfish from the Oluyole and Eleyele Rivers relative to the reference Fish farm (Fol-Hope). Likewise, an increase in the erythrocyte osmotic fragility of the RBC was observed in blood samples of fish inhabiting the polluted water, coupled with a significant rise in the activities of AST, ALT, and ALP. However, fish from the Dandaru River had higher PCV, Hb, and RBC values than those from the reference Fish farm. Samples of water from the river sources and the liver and gills of fish samples there were observed to be contaminated with heavy metals such as Cd and Mn. Genotoxicity assay displayed a significantly higher frequency of micro-nucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MnPCEs) in the fish collected from the polluted sites compared to the reference site. The histopathological lesions in the fish liver from the contaminated sites showed marked and severe disseminated congestion involving the vessels and sinusoids. The Kidney revealed severe distortion of the architecture, characterized by outright loss of tubular structure, desquamation, atresia, and degeneration. In conclusion, the study revealed plausible fish health complications in fish inhabiting polluted streams with toxicities resulting in anaemia, liver damage, DNA damage, and possibly cancer. Thus, caution must be exercised when consuming fish from polluted rivers because they could be potentially harmful to humans thereby, constituting a public health risk.
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Antibiotic prescription trends in a Tertiary Veterinary Hospital in Nigeria
A six-year retrospective study was conducted using records from case files of patients (Companion and Food Animals) handled at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Ogun state, Nigeria, to assess the pattern of antibiotic prescriptions in managing diseases presented to the hospital. There were four hundred and fifty-four (454) antibiotic prescription cases for which twelve (12) antibiotics were used. An antimicrobial susceptibility test was carried out before antibiotic prescription for 5 (1.1%) cases. The most frequently used antibiotics were: oxytetracycline (346; 68.4%), enrofloxacin (75; 14.8%), amoxicillin (31; 6.0%), and doxycycline (20; 4.0%). The frequency of use was less than 3% for each antibiotic. About 91.6% of the antibiotics were prescribed for diseases of infectious origin, 5.7% for non-infectious diseases, while the diagnosis of 2.6% of the antibiotic prescriptions were not specified. Haemoparasitic infections constitute 87.3% of infectious diseases, bacterial and viral infections constitute 7.7% and 5%, respectively. The antibiotic prescription regimen was completed in 38.1% of the cases not completed in 49.6%, and in 12.3% of the cases, it was not clearly stated whether or not the patients completed the prescription regimen. Oxytetracycline was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic. The highest usage of antibiotics was in the treatment of haemoparasitic infections, and there was a high rate of non-compliance among clients to their prescription regimens. This finding underscores the significance of maintaining patient follow-up and educating clients on the importance of adhering to antibiotic regimens, to reduce the emergence of antimicrobial resistance.
Prevalence and associated risk factors of bovine fasciolosis in cattle in Oyo state, Nigeria
A major zoonotic endoparasitic disease that costs the livestock industry a huge amount of money as losses is bovine fasciolosis, especially in Nigeria. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the frequency and risk factors of bovine fascioliosis in Oyo state, Nigeria. This cross-sectional study sampled 383 cattle in all with their faeces collected between January and June of 2023. The faeces samples were examined under a microscope to check for the presence of eggs from Fasciola spp. using the method of sedimentation. The association between the prevalence of Fasciola spp. eggs and risk factors were determined using Pearson’s chi-square (χ2). The overall prevalence of bovine fasciolosis was 27.15%. The highest prevalence (32.89%) was observed in Ibarapa, while the lowest prevalence (19.74%) was observed in Ogbomoso. The prevalence among breeds revealed the highest of 75.00% among the Kuri breed and the lowest prevalence of 22.03% among the Sokoto Gudali breed. The prevalence was highest in bulls (27.91%) compared to cows (27.06%). The highest prevalence of 30.00% was observed in calves (< 2 years), and the lowest prevalence of 26.87% was discovered in adults (5-7 years). The highest prevalence (29.49%) and (38.04%) were observed in animals categorized as animals with poor body and faecal condition scores, respectively. There were significant (P<0.05) associations between fasciolosis prevalence among breeds and ages in different zones of Oyo State (χ2 = 68.558a, P = 0.00) and (χ2 = 26.727a, P = 0.008), respectively. These findings confirmed the presence of bovine fasciolosis in Oyo State, Nigeria, with the breed and age of cattle being the most significant risk factors for fasciolosis. More efforts should be directed at preventing or curtailing it, especially in Ibarapa area, in bulls, Kuri breeds, and animals with poor body conditions. Thus, awareness and training about its control, prevention, and monitoring strategies are required to minimize the effects of the disease.
Induction of Ethoxyresorufin-o-deethylase (EROD) activity by Benzo[a]pyrene in Primary Culture of Gill Epithelial Cells from Tilapia fish
Using in vitro techniques in ecotoxicological studies to detect and measure chemically induced distress in waterbodies is gaining momentum. In South Africa, toxicity testing is a part of managing water resources. In our study, primary gill epithelial cells established from the gills of indigenous fish (Oreochromis mossambicus) were used to assess the CYP1A induction, serving as an alternative to whole fish toxicity testing. Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), a potent aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Aryl) agonist usually found in contaminated water, was exposed to primary cultures of gill epithelial cells and a continuous fish gill cell line RTgill-W1 cells. The primary gill epithelial cells responded to CYP1A induction, while the commercially available RTgill-W1 cell line showed no activity (p < 0.001). Cytotoxicity, determined by the methyl thiazole tetrazolium (MTT) assay, was not observed following a 72-h exposure in the primary gill epithelial cells and the RTgill-W1 cell line to differing B[a]P concentrations. The gill epithelial cells isolated from the gills of Tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus) were similar in morphology to fish gills. The results showed gill filament EROD activity as a sensitive, rapid, cost-effective biomarker that detects readily metabolized Aryl agonists in polluted water.
Histology and Histochemistry of the Adrenal Gland of the Four-Toed Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris Wagner, 1841)
This study investigated the histology of the adrenal gland of the four-toed hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) using basic histological and histochemical techniques. The aim was to provide helpful scientific data on the structure and function of the adrenal gland of this animal. Four adult male four-toed hedgehogs (150-200g) were used for the study and the adrenal glands were processed for routine histology and histochemical procedures of Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and Masson's Trichrome. The adrenal gland showed the histology of the outer cortex and the central medulla. The adrenal cortex has three zones, the cells of the outermost zona glomerulosa are columnar or pyramidal in shape with closely packed spherical nuclei arranged in curved columns. The middle zona fasciculata possessed large polyhedral cells with foamy cytoplasm, arranged in long parallel cords bounded by sinusoidal capillaries. The cells of the innermost zona reticularis displayed deeply staining nuclei arranged in interconnected cords delineated by fenestrated capillaries. The adrenal medulla was composed predominantly of large, pale-staining irregular or cuboidal medullary cells, which formed clusters separated by numerous sinusoidal blood capillaries and connective tissue. However, other cell types were not distinguishable within the adrenal medulla. Only the adrenal capsule and zona fasciculata were positive for PAS reaction while the capsule, trabeculae and connective tissue elements within the adrenal medulla containing collagen fibres showed positive staining to Masson's Trichrome. The study therefore demonstrated that the histology and histochemical features of the adrenal gland of the four-toed hedgehog are similar to other mammals except for minor variations such as the absence of zona intermedia and predominance of the pale-staining cells in the adrenal medulla. This is perhaps the first report on the histology and histochemistry of the adrenal gland of the four-toed hedgehog.
Exploring digital tools in promoting anti-rabies and DHLPP vaccine uptake at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan: A pilot study
Digital tools have found applications in various fields including health promotion. Rabies, Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza (DHLPP) cause morbidity and mortality in dogs and are vaccine-preventable. We deployed digital tools in community sensitization and awareness campaigns on anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) and DHLPP vaccination. We also assessed its effects on the uptake at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH), University of Ibadan, Nigeria from November 2023 to February 2024. A retrospective and a quasi-experimental study designs were adopted. A review of ARV and DHLPP vaccination records from 2020 to 2023 was conducted. Social media platforms and websites were deployed in the vaccination campaign for three months. Online metrics and vaccine uptake were monitored. Monthly records of ARV and DHLPP vaccinations before and during the vaccination campaign were compared and correlated with the digital metrics. Data were analyzed at a 5% significant level. The highest annual total ARV and DHLPP vaccine uptake was in 2022. The ARV uptake increased from 16 to 48, while DHLPP decreased from 47 to 31. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) monthly ARV uptake from January to October 2023 increased non-significantly from 27.3 ± 9.5 to 31.3 ± 14.5 during the vaccination campaign; while DHLPP uptake increased significantly (p = 0.013) from 25.7 ± 6.2 to 40.0 ± 6.6 during the same period. There was a positive correlation between Facebook reach and ARV uptake (r = 0.94), page views and DHLPP uptake (r = 0.90), and unique visitors and DHLPP uptake (r = 0.99). Digital tools contribute to ARV and DHLPP vaccination uptake at the VTH, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Long-term digital effect studies on vaccine uptake and institution-based online presence are recommended.
The appendicular skeleton of the Eidolon helvum (African fruit bat): Gross anatomical investigations
The bats are the only known flying mammals. The skeleton is an essential aspect of anatomy and the shape and characteristics of each bone is peculiar to each animal species. Despite the widespread distribution of the African fruit bat (Eidolon helvum), there is no documented data on the morphometrics and description of the skeleton, apart from the axial skeleton documented by this team. This study therefore aims at highlighting the gross description of the individual bones of the appendicular skeleton – fore and hind limbs – of the Eidolon helvum captured from the wild. The bats (5 males, 10 females) were captured from the southwestern part of Nigeria used for this study. They were humanely sacrificed, de-fleshed and subjected to cold maceration. The appearance of the individual bones was unique. Of particular interest were the scapula, ossa coxarum and the metacarpal bones. Similar to neotropical bats, the scapula had a strong similarity in shape and appearance to the human counterpart, while differing greatly from other mammals and avians. The ossa coxarum was the only bone that showed a distinct sexual dimorphism. The shape of the obturator foramen was ovoid in males but more triangular in females. Also, there was non-fusion of the pubic symphysis in the females, unlike that observed in males. The metacarpal was not observable in all subjects, as the carpal bones were seen to articulate directly with the digits distally, and the ulna proximally. Linear measurement results obtained showed that the males had generally higher values, with the wingspan (609.96±64.53 mm) showing a statistically significant difference between the genders (P<0.05), males being 663.45±14.48 mm, and the females 580.14±62.23 mm. Results obtained from this study provide baseline, data which may find application in basic and comparative anatomical studies, forensic, archaeological and anthropological studies, and wildlife clinical procedures.
Protective role of melatonin on Bisphenol A-induced Adrenal Gland dysfunction in pubertal Wistar rats exposed in-utero
Most studies on the effect of Bisphenol A (BPA) on the endocrine organs are either not environmentally relevant due to high doses of BPA exposure or involve direct exposure to adult rats. To bridge this knowledge gap, this present study was designed to investigate the protective effects of melatonin (MLT) on adrenal gland dysfunction in pubertal male Wistar rats exposed to environmentally relevant doses of BPA in utero. Pregnant Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups (n=5): Group 1 (control) received 0.2 ml 1% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)/99% canola oil as the vehicle; Group 2 received BPA at 50 µg/kg/day; Group 3 received BPA at 150 µg/kg/day; Group 4 received BPA at 50 µg/kg/day with concurrent MLT 1 mg/kg/day; and Group 5 received BPA at 150 µg/kg/day with concurrent MLT 1 mg/kg/day. All treatments were administered by gavage from gestational day (GD) 10-21. Thereafter, two male offspring randomly from each litter per group (n=10) were weighed, and blood samples were collected for serum hormonal assay before they were euthanized on post-natal day (PND) 42. Biomarkers for oxidative stress (MDA, H2O2) and antioxidants (GPx and GST) were estimated. The levels of corticosterone and ACTH were determined using ELISA kits. Histopathology and histomorphometry of the gland were carried out using standard methods. BPA exposure induced marked dose-dependent adrenal alterations, including changes in body and organ weights, alterations in serum hormone levels, decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes while increased ROS and MDA as well as the induction of adrenal lesions. However, melatonin co-administered with BPA protected against BPA-induced alterations of adrenal function. Hence, melatonin protects against BPA-induced toxicity of the adrenal gland of pubertal male rats exposed in utero.
Low-dose cucumber juice improved spermatozoa motility of Albino rats in the short term only
The status of spermatozoa characteristics is often a strong consideration for the use or rejection of an ejaculate at breeding stations. The reproductive effects of several plant materials on animal species have been documented. Cucumber is widely consumed by man for its numerous health benefits however, literature is scant on its reproductive effects in mammals. This research examined the impacts of oral delivery of cucumber juice on some spermatozoa characteristics in the albino rat. Fresh cucumber fruit (300g) was rinsed in water, thoroughly blended, and sieved using a muslin bag to obtain the filtrate. Sixty male albino rats (150-170g) were equally randomized into four groups. A, B, C, and D and administered with 1.5, 1.0, 0.5mls (of filtrate), and 1.0ml distilled water, respectively, during days 0 – 6 of the study. On days 7 (short-term), 14 (moderate term), and 21 (long-term), spermatozoa were collected from the caudal epididymides of the rats to assess the motility (SM %), viability (SV %), and morphological abnormalities (SA %). Results for Group A rats showed that the SM on days 7 (72.00±2.00%) and 21 (70.00±4.08%) were not significantly (P>0.05) different but were higher (P<0.05) than 65.00±2.89% obtained on day 14. For group B rats, the SM on days 14 and 21 were the same (80.00±0.00%) and comparatively higher (P>0.05) than (76.67±3.33%) obtained on day 7. For group C rats, the SM on days 14 (66.00±2.45%) and 21 (68.00±2.00%) were comparable but lower (P<0.05) than 93.00±1.22% obtained on day 7. For group D rats, the SM obtained on days 7 (88.00±4.64%) 14, (86.09±0.41%), and 21 (89.00±1.02%) did not differ significantly (P>0.05). The values obtained for SV and SA on days 7, 14, and 21 for all rats in these studies were only comparable (P>0.05). Findings suggest that oral administration of cucumber juice did not cause any significant changes in spermatozoa viability and morphological abnormalities, however, its low dose improved spermatozoa motility in the short term.
Diurnal variation in some physiological parameters in the West African dwarf goats, as influenced by age, sex and pregnancy status
Diurnal variation in physiological parameters is an established phenomenon. However, the effects under various allostatic states have not been well established. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the roles of age, sex and pregnancy status in the diurnal variations in heart rate, rectal temperature, and respiratory and pulse rates in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Twenty (20) healthy goats comprising 5 adult males, adult non-gravid females, gravid females and kids (less than 6 months old) were used in this study. The animals were sampled two hourly, at 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00 and 20:00 hours. The rectal temperature showed considerable diurnal variation. The values increased steadily until the peak was reached at 8 pm in the WAD goats. However, a significant increase was observed at 10 am in the male goats whereas the increases were not significant until 4 pm in the gravid and non-gravid females as well as in the kids. Significant diurnal changes were also demonstrated in the respiratory rates of the goats. Except for the young goats, the respiratory rate increased from 10 am and peaked at 2 pm before falling to the lowest values at 8 pm. However, the highest respiratory rate in the young goats was observed at 8 am, from where it descended to its lowest value at 8 pm. This study showed that diurnal variation in the rectal temperature, and respiratory rates may not follow the same sequence in both adult and young goats. The sex of the animal involved is also a source of influence on the diurnal fluctuations of these diameters. At the same time, pregnancy status did not appear to influence diurnal variation in the WAD goats studied.
A retrospective study of post-operative protocols used in canine, porcine and small ruminants surgically handled in the University of Nigeria Veterinary Teaching Hospital between January 2010 - December 2019
Post-operative management is the care a patient receives after surgery which usually lasts through the entire duration of hospital stay and after discharge following total recovery. This research was carried out to investigate post-operative protocols used in canine, porcine and small animal ruminants surgically managed at the University of Nigeria Veterinary Teaching Hospital between January 2010 to December 2019. Case files of patients presented and treated were studied. During this period, a total of 2526 animals were treated. Of these number, a total of 63 case files were studied because they were surgical cases and 2463 were not studied (non-surgical cases). The information obtained included: file number, species and sex. Also, anaesthetics and post-operative antibiotics, post-surgical analgesics and fluid use were studied. The proportion of cases presented with an indication of surgery varied greatly among species: canine (1.65%), caprine (0.63%), ovine (0.02%) and porcine (0.04%). The proportion also varied significantly between surgical and non-surgical cases with the non-surgical cases ranking higher than surgical cases. The proportion also varied between males (0.83%) and females (1.69%) in all species studied. Caesarean operation (0.63%) was the most surgical procedure performed. Lignocaine, penicillin-streptomycin and Acetaminophen were the most used anaesthetic, antibiotic and analgesic respectively. Dextrose saline (0.12%) was used in the majority of patients. This study established that indications for intravenous fluid, anaesthetic, analgesic and antibiotic were strongly associated with the species and health status of the animals with choices of therapy based on availability and judgement of the clinician.
Ultrastructural changes in the testes of prepubertal to aged African Greater Cane rat (Thryonomys swinderianus, Temminck 1827)
This study investigated ultrastructural changes in the testes of prepubertal to aged African Greater Cane rats (Thryonomys swinderianus). Twenty, pathogen-free AGCRs of known ages were used for this study. The rats were randomly assigned into 4 groups (n = 5) as follows: Groups 1 (prepubertal), 2 (pubertal), 3 (adult) and 4 (aged). Testicular tissues were processed routinely and viewed under a Transmission Electron Microscope. Sertoli cell nuclei were uniquely roundish in prepubertal compared to their triangular shape in others. Also, spermatogonia and spermatocytes in prepubertal had more mitochondria and euchromatic nuclei compared to others. The Leydig cell cytoplasm in pubertal rats contained numerous mitochondria, and lipid droplets as well as the smooth endoplasmic reticulum when compared to others. This study has demonstrated specific ultrastructural changes in the testes of the African Greater Cane rat with age advancement that could perhaps be associated with the reproductive status; quiescence or activeness of different age groups of the rats investigated.
Craniometric study of the skull of domestic pigs (Sus scrofa) in South Western Nigeria
Studies related to the craniofacial anatomy of the skull of domestic animals are vital for understanding spatial relationships of organs in the head region and the effects of genetics and the environment on sexual dimorphisms. This present study was designed to investigate 15 metrics of craniofacial features of 26 domestic pigs (large White breed) (12 males and 14 females), aged 6 to 17 months. Average values were obtained and expressed as mean ± standard deviation and analysed using the Student "t" test (p<0.05) and Pearson correlation (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). This study showed that about 80% of the measured parameters were higher in females, compared to males. The mean neurocranial volume was significantly higher in females (106 ± 8.38 ml) when compared to the males (96 ± 8.56 ml), while the mean values for maximum height and length of the braincase (Neurocranium) were 6.40 ± 0.69cm and 8.33 ± 0.35cm and 6.24 ± 0.60cm and 8.44 ± 0.32cm for the males and females respectively. Although the braincase index values were observed to be higher in pigs above one year of age, it was only significantly higher (p < 0.05) in females above one year of age when compared to those below one year. This study reveals sexual dimorphism with a female bias, in the neurocranial volume. The data obtained, therefore, provide added information that can be useful in the comparative skull typology of pigs and the field of porcine neuroanatomy research.
Parquetina nigrescens reverses haemorrhagic and haemolytic anaemia with reduction of erythrocyte osmotic fragility in adult male Wistar rats
Anaemia is still a serious challenge in developing countries due to problems of haemo protozoan parasitic diseases, sickle cell anaemia and malnutrition that is almost always exacerbated by poverty. Thus, there is a need for the evaluation and development of local solutions towards the mitigation of anaemia. The present study was therefore designed to evaluate the haematinic potentials of methanol leaf extract of Parquetina nigriscens on experimentally-induced haemorrhagic and haemolytic anaemia in adult male Wistar rats. Forty-five adult male Wistar rats used for the study were randomly assigned into 9 groups. Group A served as positive control without anaemia. Haemorrhagic anaemia was induced in groups B - E by withdrawal of 30% total blood volume of each rat, while haemolytic anaemia was induced in groups F to I by an intraperitoneal injection of Phenylhydrazine (40 mg/kg) for two days (Day 1 and 3). The rats were administered 25 or 50mg/kg P. nigriscens or FeSO4 (2 mg/kg), while a group was untreated post-induction of anaemia. Blood samples were collected on day 8 for determination of haematological parameters and erythrocyte osmotic fragility. Parquetina nigrescens significantly increased the PCV, RBC and haemoglobin values as well as erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCH and MCHC), which had been initially reduced by the acute haemorrhage and haemolysis. The extract also restored the leucocyte indices to values comparable to those of non-anaemic control rats. Finally, P. nigrescens increased erythrocyte osmotic resistance in both haemorrhagic and haemolytic anaemia-induced rats, an indicator of regeneration of RBC and increased circulation of new erythrocytes in circulation, which is a response to anaemia. The study demonstrated that methanol leaf extract of Parquetina nigrescens extract possesses some haematinic effects and can be used to stimulate erythropoiesis in acute blood loss or convalescent cases of haemolysis diseases.
Melatonin averts BPA-induced perturbations of the epididymis of Wistar rats
The protective effect of Melatonin (MLT) against Bisphenol-A (BPA) induced perturbation of the epididymis of Wistar rats was studied. Forty adult male rats assigned into four groups A-D (n=10) were used for the study. Group A (Control rats) received 0.2 ml of olive oil orally. Group B (MLT-treated rats): 10 mg/kg per day body weight MLT administered intra-peritoneally. Group C (BPA-treated rats): oral 10 mg/kg per day body weight BPA suspended in 0.2 ml olive and Group D (BPA+MLT-treated rats): All treatments lasted for 45 days. The results showed a significant reduction in epididymal weight, decreased sperm motility, livability and counts, decrease in catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase activities while hydrogen peroxide generation and lipid peroxidation were significantly increased compared with the control. Exposed rats also showed induced necrosis and epithelial sloughing as well as decreases in the expression of alpha Smooth Muscle Actin (αSMA), Vimectin (Vm) and S-100 proteins in the epididymidis. However, co-administration of MLT alongside BPA averted BPA-induced alterations in biochemical markers of oxidative stress, semen quality, protein expression and tissue architecture. Hence, MLT averts BPA-induced perturbations of the epididymis in Wistar rats.