Chitosan-based nanocomposites show promise as antimicrobial biomaterials; however, the influence of chelating-agent functionalization on metal coordination and biological performance remains insufficiently characterized. This study demonstrates the synthesis, characterization, and antifungal evaluation of an EDTA-complexed chitosan–silver nanocomposite produced from Archachatina marginata shell waste, a sustainable alternative to conventional marine crustacean sources. Chitosan (degree of deacetylation: 76.6%) was chemically modified with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), followed by silver complexation. Physicochemical characterization confirmed successful nanocomposite formation. X-ray diffraction revealed face-centered cubic silver (crystallite size: 22.20 nm), while electron microscopy showed spherical particles (46–48 nm) dispersed within the polymer matrix. UV–visible spectroscopy exhibited dual absorption bands at 290 nm (ligand-to-metal charge transfer) and 435 nm (surface plasmon resonance) showing the formation of silver nanoparticles. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy indicated chemical coordination through Ag–O (567 cm⁻¹) and Ag–N (494 cm⁻¹) vibrations. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated good thermal stability with a primary onset degradation temperature of 156 ℃. Antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus showed concentration-dependent inhibition (20.0–67.2%) with an apparent AUC-based IC₅₀ of approximately 10.8 ppm. Kinetic modeling revealed concentration-dependent growth dynamics, with the Richards model performing best at control and low concentrations. These findings indicate that the EDTA-associated chitosan–silver composite reduced Aspergillus flavus biomass under the tested in vitro conditions. Further studies are required to confirm EDTA attachment, silver speciation and release, efficacy in food matrices, aflatoxin reduction, and safety before practical application.
Digital trust functions as a form of national capital that supports the growth and stability of Nigeria's digital economy. As digital platforms expand across finance, health, and governance, cybersecurity becomes essential for safeguarding data, systems, and user confidence. This paper examines the cybersecurity risk landscape in Nigeria, highlighting threats such as phishing, identity theft, and infrastructure vulnerabilities. It explores key strategies that enable digital trust, including strong policy frameworks, public-private collaboration, cyber literacy, secure infrastructure, and inclusive platform design. The paper concludes with actionable recommendations for enhancing digital trust and promoting inclusive digital participation across the country.
Mesosphaerum suaveolens (Lamiaceae), commonly found in tropical regions, is traditionally used for its medicinal and insect-repelling properties. Increase in resistance of Anopheles gambiae to synthetic insecticides coupled with growing concern of mammals’ health and the environment has posed a great need for safer insecticide(s). Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of M. suaveolens as a potential natural alternative for mosquito control. Aerial parts of the plant were collected, shade-dried, pulverized, and extracted using n-hexane in a Soxhlet extractor. This was followed by the preliminary phytochemical screening, and GC-MS analysis of the crude extract at the Multipurpose Lab, ABU Zaria, Nigeria. Insecticidal efficacy of GC-MS identified compounds was evaluated using the CDC bottle bioassay on adult A. gambiae s.l at concentrations of 2000, 4000, and 6000 µg/L. The preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of high concentration of terpenoids, with minute concentrations of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and glycosides. From GC-MS analysis, eight potential insecticidal compounds were identified, including caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, phytol, and spathulenol. Results of insecticidal efficacy showed a dose-dependent increase in mortality with 44%, 83%, and 100% respectively within 24 hours. Probit regression gave LC₅₀ = 666.59 µg/L and LC₉₅ = 1,571.95 µg/L. Although ANOVA showed no statistically significant differences among treatment groups (P = 0.125), the consistent mortality trend confirms the biological relevance of the extract. This study highlights M. suaveolens as a promising candidate for developing plant based, eco-friendly insecticides in mosquito vector control programs.
Reproductive health is key in determining the rate of productivity in small ruminant production systems, however, data on surgical diseases of the male reproductive tract is sparse in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed at documenting the types and distribution of male reproductive surgical diseases in rams and bucks across Ogun State, Nigeria, and to explore associations with species, breed, and age group. A ten-year retrospective review of clinical records from six government veterinary health facilities (January 2014–December 2024; n = 407 animals presented) was combined with a six-month prospective cross-sectional survey at six live-animal markets and abattoirs (July–December 2024; n = 774 animals examined). Descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact tests were applied using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26.0. Twenty-six confirmed cases of male reproductive surgical disease were recorded across both study units. The retrospective unit yielded 24 cases from 407 animals presented (proportion = 5.9%), while the prospective unit identified 2 cases among 774 animals examined (detection rate = 0.26%). Conditions documented were orchitis (75.0% of retrospective cases), cryptorchidism (12.5%), inguino-scrotal hernia (8.3%), hematocele (4.2%), and unilateral hypoplastic testis (prospective unit only). All confirmed cases occurred exclusively in rams, with no cases in bucks. Fisher’s exact test confirmed a significant species difference in the prospective unit of the study (p = 0.037). Orchitis predominates among male reproductive surgical diseases in small ruminants in Ogun State. The exclusive occurrence of confirmed cases in rams and the low farmer presentation rate at veterinary health facilities emphasise the need for improved reproductive health surveillance, routine breeding soundness evaluation, and accessible surgical services for smallholder farmers in southwest Nigeria.
Elliptic partial differential equations (PDEs) frequently arise in steady-state physical models such as heat conduction, electrostatics, and incompressible fluid flow. Analytical solutions for such equations are often infeasible for complex geometries or boundary conditions, necessitating efficient numerical approaches. This study presents the development and application of a 9-point modified relaxation method for solving second-order elliptic PDEs. Unlike the traditional 5-point finite difference scheme, the 9-point stencil enhances accuracy by incorporating diagonal neighbors, allowing better approximation of the Laplacian operator. The method is coupled with an iterative relaxation strategy that accelerates convergence through optimal weighting and boundary adjustment techniques. Numerical experiments conducted on benchmark Dirichlet problems demonstrate improved accuracy and stability over standard Gauss-Seidel and Jacobi schemes. The proposed method also exhibits faster convergence and reduced discretization error on refined grids. This research underscores the effectiveness of high-order stencil relaxation methods for accurate and computationally efficient solutions of elliptic boundary value problems. The 9-point Relaxation Method (MRM) derived by averaging the Standard 5-point and Diagonal 5-point Relaxation Method. The newly modified method was implemented on two-dimensional PDEs of Laplace and Poisson type. For the sake of accuracy, the MRM was compared with the Standard 5-point Method.
Pharmaceutical effluents represent a growing environmental concern, yet studies on the toxicological impacts of treated pharmaceutical wastewater on freshwater fish remain limited, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigated the acute toxicity of treated pharmaceutical effluent on Clarias gariepinus (African catfish) and its histopathological effects on gill, liver, and muscle tissues. Effluent samples were collected from a pharmaceutical facility in Ilorin, Nigeria, and tested at concentrations of 12.5%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% (v/v) over 96 hours using a static renewal bioassay (n = 10 fish per concentration group, in duplicate tanks). Physicochemical parameters of the effluent were characterized, and histopathological changes were assessed by haematoxylin and eosin staining. The LC50 was determined as 18.75%, indicating high toxicity even after treatment. Concentration-dependent behavioural disturbances included erratic swimming, frequent surfacing, loss of equilibrium, and lethargy. All fish in concentrations ≥25% died before 96 hours. Histopathological examination revealed significant lesions in gills (epithelial lifting, lamellar swelling, necrosis), liver (vacuolation, portal congestion, fatty degeneration, hepatic cord disruption), and muscle (fibre degeneration, focal necrosis, vacuolar degeneration). Control fish showed no visible lesions. These findings demonstrate that treated pharmaceutical effluents remain acutely toxic to aquatic organisms, with histopathological changes serving as sensitive bioindicators of sub-lethal toxicity. Stricter effluent treatment standards and regulatory oversight are urgently needed to protect aquatic ecosystems and human health.
Crude oil exploration is on a progressive global increase, particularly in African countries hugely dependent on crude oil for economic survival. As such, there is increased environmental and occupational exposure to its constituent compounds, several of which have been established to be neurotoxic. However, much is unknown about their synergistic effects in cases of crude oil exposure; hence, this study investigated the toxicity of Bonny Light crude oil (BLCO), the major crude oil blend in Nigeria, in the brains of rats. Rats were administered 0, 1, or 2 ml/kg BLCO orally for 21 days and assessed for behavioural as well as neurochemical changes, including oxidative stress, glia-mediated inflammatory responses, and brain excitatory-inhibitory balance via biochemical assays and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that BLCO treatments significantly reduced cognitive and motor functions and increased anxiogenic and depressive behaviours. Administration of BLCO affected glial activity and modified the excitatory-inhibitory system in the hippocampus, striatum, and cortex. Additionally, significant changes in oxidative stress markers were also observed after BLCO treatments. These findings indicate that compromised behaviours are linked with increased oxidative stress, glial-mediated inflammation, and modification of the excitatory-inhibitory system in the brain.
The potential use of Calabash clay or chalk nanocomposite as adsorbent for pharmaceuticals were investigated using two model drugs: metronidazole and streptomycin. The calabash clay (adsorbent) was characterized for its morphological characteristics using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), for presence of prominent functional groups using the Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and for chemical compositions using Rigaku NEX DE X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). Its adsorption properties were assessed as functions of adsorption capacity, contact time, adsorbent dosage, pH, and temperature. The adsorption capacities/percentage removal of metronidazole and streptomycin were optimum at about 143.25 mg/g/95.5 % and 146.8 mg/g / 97.87 %, respectively, for initial drug concentration, with maximum adsorption at 20 minutes, and 0.1g, 4 and 28ᵒC for other adsorption parameters: adsorbent dosage, drug concentration, pH and temperature for both drugs. Increasing the adsorbent dosage, pH, temperature and contact time indicated decrease in adsorption capacity for both drugs. Furthermore, the adsorption kinetics correlated well with the pseudo-first-order model. The thermodynamic parameters evaluated showed a spontaneous and exothermic adsorption process. The adsorption data fitted well into the Langmuir isotherm model than the Freundlich model with R² values of 0.9946 and 0.9717 for Metronidazole and 0.9924 and 0.9822 for Streptomycin, respectively -- signifying a monolayer pattern of adsorption. Overall, the findings indicate that Calabash clay particles can serve as an economic and effective natural adsorbent for application in the pharmaceutical industry.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by progressive insulin resistance and impaired pancreatic beta-cell function, resulting in dysregulated glucose homeostasis. Despite pharmacological advances, T2DM management remains a global challenge, necessitating investigation of complementary dietary strategies. Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including lycopene, citrulline, quercetin, kaempferol, and various phenolic acids. These compounds have demonstrated the capacity to modulate gene expression relevant to glucose metabolism and insulin signaling. This narrative review synthesizes current preclinical and clinical evidence on the mechanisms by which these compounds regulate key molecular mediators of T2DM, with emphasis on pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX1), glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), insulin receptor substrate/protein kinase B (IRS/Akt), forkhead box O1 (FOXO1), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Mechanistic pathways include transcription factor modulation, nuclear receptor activation, epigenetic reprogramming, and antioxidant-mediated attenuation of oxidative stress in pancreatic beta-cells. Critically, the review identified a substantive gap in direct clinical evidence linking C. lanatus-specific bioactive compounds to gene-level insulin sensitization in human subjects. The novelty of this review lies in the integrative mechanistic framework that prioritized compounds exclusively or predominantly concentrated in C. lanatus, distinguishing it from broader nutrigenomic reviews. Rigorous clinical trials and mechanistic studies are warranted to validate these findings and establish evidence-based dietary recommendations.
In 2006, millions of poultry mortality was associated with high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) in Nigeria. The disease was brought under control from 2008 to 2014, then a resurgence in 2015. This study therefore aimed at investigating the occurrence, locations and seasonal conditions that facilitated HPAI outbreak and estimate its related economic losses in Plateau State, Nigeria, from 2015 to 2022.vThe HPAI data used were reported cases recorded by the Avian Influenza Desk office, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Plateau State. Number of farms, flock size, type of birds, year of cases reported and laboratory results as well as seasons of spread of the disease were extracted and utilized for this study.Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and zero inflated negative binomial for trend analysis.The highest number of HPAI cases was recorded in 2015, with 151 cases, accounting for 52.6 % of the total reported cases while the lowest number of cases was in 2019 with only two cases, representing 0.7% of the total cases. The peak prevalence occurred between February and March of the period of study, with a decline thereafter until December. Jos South LGAs had the highest number of positive results, followed by Jos North, while Mangu, Barkin-Ladi, and Wase LGAs had the lowest. An estimated loss of 130,481,135 eggs from a total mortality of 825,000 poultry birds in 304 farms translates to a cumulative economic loss of ₦ 6,023,401,525.00 ($ 4,068,441.94.00). The distribution of HPAI varied across different LGAs of the State. The study provided valuable insights into the epidemiology and the direct or indirect huge economic losses due to HPAI in Plateau State, Nigeria.
Nickel chloride (NiCl₂), a widely used industrial compound, poses significant neurotoxic risks, particularly to the hippocampus, through mechanisms involving oxidative stress, neuronal degeneration, and cognitive dysfunction. Accordingly, this study investigated the neuroprotective potential of citicoline against NiCl₂-induced hippocampal toxicity in adult Wistar rats. Forty-two rats were randomly assigned to six groups and treated for 28 days with NiCl₂ and/or citicoline. Neurobehavioral assessments were conducted using the Novel Object Recognition and Elevated Plus Maze tests, while oxidative stress markers (Malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione) were evaluated in hippocampal homogenates. Histological analysis of the hippocampus was performed, alongside in silico molecular docking to explore potential mechanisms of action. NiCl₂ exposure resulted in significant reductions (p<0.05) in body and brain weights, impaired recognition memory, impaired cognitive behaviour, decreased antioxidant enzyme activities, elevated lipid peroxidation, and marked hippocampal degeneration. Citicoline treatment significantly (p<0.05) ameliorated these effects, evidenced by improved cognitive performance, restoration of antioxidant defenses, reduced oxidative damage, and preservation of hippocampal architecture. Molecular docking further revealed favourable interactions of citicoline with acetylcholinesterase, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and amyloid-beta, suggesting potential multi-target neuroprotective mechanisms. In conclusion, citicoline demonstrates significant neuroprotective effects against NiCl₂-induced hippocampal toxicity and may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for heavy metal-induced neurodegeneration.
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) remain a significant public health concern, particularly in tropical regions with poor sanitation. Waste dumpsites contribute to STH transmission by contaminating soil and increasing exposure risk. This study investigated the prevalence of STH in selected waste dumpsites across Ekpoma and Irrua communities in Edo State, Nigeria. A total of 225 soil samples were collected from five dumpsites and analysed using Zinc sulphate floatation and Modified Baermann technique. Physicochemical analysis revealed that the pH of soil samples was slightly acidic ranging from 3.38 ± 0.28- 4.84 ± 0.20, temperature varied from 26.26 ± 3.61°C -32.61 ± 0.54°C, and electrical conductivity ranged from 936.13 ± 314.37 µS/cm to 1322.53 ± 370.78 µS/cm. The overall rate of contamination was 65.78%. Four STH species were identified: Hookworm (37.8%), Ascaris lumbricoides (24.4%), Trichuris trichiura (7.6%), and Strongyloides stercoralis (31.6%). The highest prevalence (73.33%) was recorded at Agua Cattle Market Dumpsite in Irrua, while fresh soil samples exhibited the highest contamination (69.3%). The study revealed that dumpsites serve as reservoirs for STH, posing health risks to nearby communities and animals due to their zoonotic nature. The physicochemical conditions of soil support parasite survival and transmission. Burning waste alone is insufficient to eliminate STH, as parasites may persist in burnt soil. Effective waste management and sanitation practices should be prioritized to control the spread of soil-transmitted helminths.
Due to a combination of factors such as exposure to solar radiation alongside overexploitation of tree resources, Africa is badly struck by climate change. The use of modern technologies on farms is minimal, and economies of countries in this region are agriculture-dependent. This necessitated conduct of an experiment that sought to better understand how a certain goat breed (West African Dwarf) responded to varying weather conditions. The Goat Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, University of Ibadan was the experimental location. Thirty West African Dwarf does were grouped into six treatments in a completely randomised design based on varying coat colours viz: all Black, all Brown, all White, White/Black, White/Brown and Brown/Black. The study was carried out during the low temperature humidity index (THI) – June, July, August. Parameters determined include Pulse Rate, Respiratory Rate, Rectal Temperature. Ambient Temperature and Relative Humidity were also measured, while THI was estimated. All parameters were determined twice daily. Data obtained from the study were subjected to ANOVA at α0.05. It was observed that average daily Pulse Rate was significantly lower in White does (53.65±2.28) than those of other colours, except for White/Brown (54.65±2.47). Rectal temperature was significantly lower in White does (38.65±1.04) than those of other colours. Respiratory rate was significantly lower in Brown/Black does (52.10±2.60) than White/Black (54.96±2.73) and Black does (54.70±5.04). Coat colour, could influence animals' survival. This study demonstrated that WAD does with lighter coat colors were better adapted to a humid tropical environment.
Synura petersenii is a fresh water golden-brown protist which is known for its silica scales. It is a unicellular fresh water microalga that is commonly found in fresh water lakes, ponds and slow rivers or streams around the world. 10g each of dry pulverized samples of S. petersenii was extracted using 100 ml each of ethanol, methanol, and distilled water. The extracted sample was tested during the qualitative analysis for the presence (+) of alkaloid, tannins, phlobatannin, saponin, phenol, reducing sugar, steroid, cardiac glycosides, terpenoid and flavonoid in ethanol, methanol and distilled water respectively. Saponin showed highest amount with the value (40.09± 0.03, 21.15±0.01 and 21.45±0.35) mg/100g in ethanol, methanol and aqueous extract (distilled water) while phlobotannin showed lowest amount with the value (12.86±0.60, 13.58±1.07 and 11.54±0.63) mg/100g in ethanol, methanol and aqueous extract. These metabolites have applications in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals. And this study is to unveil the bioactive compounds used in the above-mentioned fields. The Proximate analysis was also carried which shows S. petersenii contains high carbohydrate content (89.93%), moderate crude protein (3.69%), total fatty acid (2.72%) and moisture content (2.75%) and low concentration of ash (0.32%) and nitrogen content (0.59%). These food substances are needed in nutraceuticals.
This study integrates geophysical and geotechnical methods to assess subsurface properties and soil shear strength for engineering applications. Electrical resistivity techniques, including Schlumberger vertical electrical sounding, Werner horizontal profiling, and dipole-dipole inversion models, were used to characterize the subsurface. The results revealed significant variations in resistivity, with high-resistivity zones 1400 – 4354 Ωm corresponding to stable materials such as dry sand, compacted soil, or rock, while low-resistivity zones 15.5 – 153 Ωm indicated weaker formations, including clay and water-saturated soils. These findings highlight potential stability concerns, particularly in areas with high moisture retention. Direct shear tests were conducted to evaluate the soil’s mechanical behavior under varying normal stresses of 5 kg, 10 kg, and 15 kg. The results demonstrated an initial strain-hardening phase followed by peak shear strength and plastic deformation. Higher normal stress enhanced shear resistance, confirming a direct relationship between applied stress and shear strength. The computed cohesion values ranged from 50 to 100 kPa, and internal friction angles varied between 28° and 32°. Profile 2 exhibited higher cohesion, suggesting stronger bonding suitable for static structures, while Profile 3 showed greater frictional resistance, making it more appropriate for retaining walls and embankments. Overall, the study confirms that subsurface variability significantly influences soil strength and stability. Understanding these parameters is crucial for infrastructure planning, ensuring foundations and load-bearing structures are positioned on competent ground. Unlike previous Nigerian studies that often treated geophysical and geotechnical data separately, this study integrates multi-array resistivity with direct shear testing to provide a site-specific geophysical-geotechnical correlation model for infrastructural stability assessment. The findings emphasize the need for site-specific evaluations, considering factors such as water infiltration and cyclic loading, to mitigate potential structural failures.
Natural rubber (NR) in its natural state is soft and weakly linked together. It is relatively easy to pull apart, which accounts for its stretchy and elastic nature. Walnut shell (WS), being a biodegradable agricultural waste, was chosen in anticipation of reinforcing the blends thereby helping to improve the strength and mechanical properties of the NR. Two different samples of NR were prepared through chemical modification via depolymerization and epoxidation. Depolymerized Natural Rubber (DNR) was produced by depolymerization of natural rubber latex using nitrobenzene and Epoxidized Natural Rubber (ENR) was produced by reaction with performic acid. Walnut shells were de-shelled, washed, dried, milled, sieved and were characterized by determining the moisture content, Ash content, volatile matter, pH measurement and Loss on Ignition. The NR, DNR and ENR composites filled with WS at three ratios of 100/0, 50/50 and 0/100 were prepared and labeled as mixes A to C. The physico-mechanical properties of the different vulcanizates were studied. It was observed that the tensile strength of the modified natural rubber was higher than that of the unmodified natural rubber. The values for the elongation break point and the hardness also increased with the addition of the WS into the modified NR composites with values higher than that of the unmodified NR. However, it was observed that there was a reduction in the compression set from the unmodified NR to the modified NR, which is due to modification which increased the stiffness of the composite.
This study investigated the potential of Kigelia africana seed oil (KASO) in reversing liver and kidney damage, which is often linked to environmental pollutants and exacerbated by synthetic drugs. Previous plant-based research primarily focused on leaves and bark, overlooking the seed oil's therapeutic potential. The study extracted oil from dried, powdered seeds and tested it on 48 male rats, divided into six groups. Group I served as the control, while Groups II–VI were induced with hepatic and renal damage using 7 mg/kg of cisplatin. Groups III–V received 0.5, 1, and 1.5 ml/kg of KASO, respectively, and Group VI was treated with 0.5 ml/kg Omega-3 oil for 21 days. Biochemical analysis revealed that cisplatin significantly increased markers of liver and kidney damage, including ALP, AST, ALT, creatinine, and urea. However, KASO treatment effectively reversed these effects. Histopathological results supported these findings. While Group II showed severe liver damage, including enlarged cystic spaces and microvesicular distortions, Groups III–V displayed varying degrees of recovery, with fatty and structural changes gradually decreasing, while rats in Group V presented a regenerating, distorted kidney tubule. In conclusion, K. africana seed oil demonstrated restorative effects on liver and kidney tissues damaged by cisplatin, suggesting its potential as a natural hepato- and nephro-protective agent. This highlights the promise of exploring lesser-used plant derivatives in developing safer therapeutic alternatives to synthetic drugs for managing organ damage.
Water is highly essential for the proper functioning of life, necessitating the Sustainable Development Goals (sixth goal) which is aimed at achieving clean water and sanitation. Unfortunately, most sub-urban areas of developing nations lack access to potable water. This study aimed at determining the physico-chemical characteristics of water from hand-dug wells; isolating; identifying and determining the antimicrobial susceptibility of bacterial isolates obtained from water samples from hand-dug wells used by dwellers in a sub-urban area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional study design, water samples were collected from fifty hand-dug wells selected based on accessibility and conveyed aseptically using ice packs to the laboratory where physicochemical and microbiological analyses were conducted using appropriate techniques. The bacterial isolates obtained were identified and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility test using disc diffusion technique. Physico-chemical analyses revealed that most of the samples were turbid, though conductivity and total dissolved solids were within World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits, however pH and calcium was not within World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits. A total of sixty-four bacteria isolates were obtained from the samples. Some of the genera identified included Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella sp. etc. The antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that most of the bacterial isolates were resistant to the conventional antibiotics used. The presence of enteric organisms in these samples is an indication of faecal pollution which is a health concern, more worrisome is the resistance of these organisms to conventional antibiotics necessitating the need for provision of clean clear and potable water especially in these areas.
This study investigated the nutrient digestibility of West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep fed graded levels of dried pineapple waste (DPW). Twenty 5-7 months old WAD sheep of both sexes, weighing 11.84±0.28kg, were randomly allotted to four treatments of graded levels of dried pineapple waste (Control diet (CD), 15% DPW, 30% DPW and 45% DPW diets) with five animals per treatment in a completely randomized design. Proximate components were determined. Performance characteristics and nutrient digestibility parameter of the WAD sheep were evaluated. Data obtained were statistically analyzed with the General Linear Model of SAS (2008). There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the mean daily dry matter intake (DMI g/day), average daily weight gain and apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, ether extract, nitrogen free extract and total digestible nutrient (P>0.05) among the experimental sheep. The apparent digestibility coefficient of the crude protein, crude fibre and ash were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the level of DPW in the diet. Digestibility of crude protein (74.98% and 77.06%) for sheep fed 30% DPW and CD were significantly higher than (65.21% and 54.10%) for 15% DPW and 45% DPW, respectively. Digestibility of crude fibre for sheep fed 45% DPW was significantly (P<0.50) lower than others. The study concluded that pineapple waste can be included in the diets of (WAD) sheep up to 45% without any deleterious effect on the performance and nutrient digestibility of WAD sheep.
Surgical castration in piglets causes significant pain and distress, yet standardized analgesic protocols remain inadequately established for commercial settings. This study evaluated whether preoperative paracetamol administration provides effective analgesia for piglets undergoing castration under xylazine-ketamine anaesthesia. Twelve large white piglets (3-5 weeks old) with weights between 2.5 and 5.0 kg were randomly allocated into two groups. Piglets in group A were treated with 15mg/kg paracetamol injection two hours before anaesthesia induction with 2% xylazine (2 mg/kg) and 5% ketamine (20 mg/kg) administered intramuscularly, while piglets in group B were administered saline of equal volume. Physiological parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature) were recorded at baseline and ten-minute intervals post-induction. Pain was assessed using the UNESP-Botucatu composite scale and behavioural observations at 0-, 6-, 24-, and 48-hours post-surgery. No significant differences were observed in respiratory rates or rectal temperatures between groups at any time point (p>0.05). Heart rates were significantly lower (p<0.05) in the paracetamol group throughout the 30-minute observation period, with values at anaesthesia induction of 128.00±13.72 bpm compared to control 169.00±31.62 bpm. No significant differences were detected in standardized pain scores or pain-associated behaviours between groups throughout the 48-hour observation period. The findings of this study reveal that preoperative administration of paracetamol injection at a dosage of 15 mg/kg did not significantly improve overall pain outcomes in piglets undergoing surgical castration under xylazine-ketamine anaesthesia, despite producing sustained cardiovascular effects throughout the observation period. Thus, evaluation of alternative analgesic approaches, including repeated-dose paracetamol protocols and other analgesic agents, is necessary for effectively managing castration-associated pain in piglets.
