Epidemiology Survey of Malaria Infection Among Patients Attending General Out-Patient Department of Borno State Specialist Hospital Maiduguri, Borno State.

¹A.A.G. Benisheikh, ²A.A. Biu, ³A.U Awana ⁴B.B. Shehu ⁵Isiaka M. Tom

¹Biotechnology Centre, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.

²Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.

³University of Maiduguri, Medical Centre, Pharmacy Unit, Borno State, Nigeria.

⁴Department of Biochemistry, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.

⁵Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.

E-mail: abbaganabenisheikhali@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

A cross-sectional study of Epidemiological survey of Malaria infection among patients attending General out-patient Department of Borno State Specialist Hospital was carried out among children. Variables assessed were thick blood film for malaria parasites, PCV, age and sex respectively. PCV was assessed using AB Jovan microhaematocrit centrifuge. Anaemia was defined as PCV less than 3%, the range of PCV values 25-29% was considered mild, 20-24% moderate while less than 29% was considered severe anaemia. A total of 211 patients were surveyed comprising 118 (55.9%) males and 73 (44.10%) females, one hundred and twenty two 122 (57.8%) of the study population were pre-school children and 89 (42.2%) infants. One hundred and thirty 130 (61.6%) of the children had malaria parasite in their blood film. Malaria infection of these (35.1%) were males while 56 (26.5%) were females but the difference was not found to be statistically significant (P>0.005). infection rate was higher among the pre-school children 32 (38.8%), than the infants 48 (22.8%) and the difference was found to be statistically significant (P>0.005). the study indicated a strong correlation between age, anaemia and prevalence of malaria parasites.

MOTHER EDUCATION AND NUTRIENT INTAKE OF CHILDREN AGES 2-7 YEARS IN LAU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF TARABA STATE

¹Anita, D.A., ¹Flora, K., ¹Bhadmus, B.A., and ²Kwetishe, D.T.

¹Department of Home and Rural Economics, College of Agriculture Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria,

²Department of Basic Science, College of Agriculture Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria.

E-mail: juliusnyameh@yahoo.com

Abstract: The study attempts to determine mother’s education and nutrient intake of children ages 2-7 years in Lau Local Government Area of Taraba state. Ten villages were randomly selected in the area and eleven respondents were selected randomly in each of the ten villages making the total of one hundred and ten (110) respondents which formed the sample size for the study. However, a total of 110 questionnaires were administered to the selected mothers. The result shows that most of the respondents were young mothers which majority of them (50.91%) where between 26 – 30 years. Very few of them (8.20%) were 41 years and above. Similarly, majority of them (57.27%) were married women, 25.45%, 9.10% and 8.18% of them were divorced, singles and widows respectively. The result more so, revealed that 63.64% of the respondents have 1 – 3 children and only 10.91 have 7 – 10 children in the area. This shows that most of them have a small size family. The study also shows that majority of the respondents (70%) have attended formal education which is a good omen to that community. The result on the nutrient status of the respondents’ children which indicated that most of their family members (55.45%) depend on carbohydrate foods this is partly due to the major food crops grown in the area. Few (9.09%) have access to plant and animal protein. The result also shows that 61.82% feed their children twice daily and 96.36% give their children fruits but only 2.73% give them fruits three times per week. This shows that most of the children (42.73%) were weighing between 26-30kg at 2-7 years old. It was therefore, concluded that mothers education is rising in the area and nutrient intake is not balanced in terms of balanced diet. Therefore, there is need for improved nutrient intake by the children in the area to promote their growth and performance.

PRODUCTION OF MEDICATED SOAP FROM STEM BARK EXTRACT

OF VITEX DONIANA PLANT

^*1M.H. Shagal, ²D. Kubmarawa and ³S.E. Mandama

^1,2&3Department of Chemistry

Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria.

E-mail: dkubmarawa@yahoo.com

Abstract: Ethanolic extract of the stem bark of Vitex doniana plant was used to produce medicated soap. The pH, moisture contents, chloride contents, total fatty matter, insoluble impurity, activity of the soap against A. niger, Penicillum expansum, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomanas aerogonisa, and Aerobic mesophilic bacteria were carried out and  the results showed that the medicated soap produced has pH (11.4), moisture contents (16.2%), chloride contents (0.46%), total fatty matter (40.2%), insoluble impurity (3.50%). The results of the bioassay showed that the medicated soap produced has activity against A. Niger (10.5mm),  Penicillum expansum (10.0mm), Candida albicans (28.0mm), Staphylococcus aureus (5.0mm) and Aerobic mesophilic bacteria (15.0mm). These results agree with the claims by the traditional healers that parts of Vitex doniana plant can be used in producing medicated soap because the medicinal plant possess antifungal and antibacterial property.

PHYSICO–CHEMICAL ASSESSMENT AND BACTERIOLOGICAL ASSAY

OF SUB-SURFACE WATER IN EDE-ADEJO, IDAH LOCAL

GOVERNMENT AREA OF KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

*Onojah, P.K., *Nsi, E.W. and **Akor, J.A.

*Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Kogi State University, Anyigba, Kogi State

**Department of Integrated Sciences, Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, Kogi State

E-mail: akorjoy2@gmail.com

Abstract: Physico-chemical studies and bacteriological assay of sub-surface water in Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State, North Central, Nigeria, were carried out to evaluate the probability and quality of the rural water supplies and to provide baseline data for future pollution studies using flame photometer, Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer, gravimetric method and pH meters. Water samples were collected at five different times from each of five boreholes located in different areas in Ede-Adejoh in the Local Government Area for analysis, using various standard methods. The annual mean values of chemical parameters in triplicate analysis of the various water samples showed the following results: pH 6 ± 0.6, COD 10.5m1/L ± 3.8, chloride ion (Cl^–) concentration of 53mg/L ± 0.5, sulphate ion (S0₄^2-) 4.10mg/L ± 0.04, sodium ion (Na⁺) 0.54mg/L ± 0.1, potassium ion (K⁺) 0.55mg/L ± 0.3 and calcium ion (Ca²⁺) 0.04mg/L ± 0.6. The concentration of heavy metals included: Zn²⁺ 2.38mg/L ± 0.06, Pb⁺ 0.08mg/L ± 0.04, Cd²⁺ 0.04mg/L ± 0.05 acid Hg⁺ 0.004mg/L ± 0.005. The result also showed that the sub-surface water in Idah was free from coliform bacteria (E. coli) indicating the absence of faecal pollution. Compared with WHO standard for drinking water, pH was low, and within the acceptable limit by the WHO standard drinking water. Similarly, the concentration of total solids in water was also low compared with the standard. Low pH (in all the boreholes), high level of heavy metals lead, calcium, zinc, iron) seriously impair the quality of ground water in the area. However, treatment by boiling, addition of lime, sedimentation and filtration using appropriate medium could adequately improve the water quality and make it safe for drinking and other uses.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF A FABRICATED CALCIUM CARBIDE HOVER AND KEROSENE LAMP AS HEAT SOURCES FOR POULTRY BROODING

¹J.O. Awulu, ²T.K. Kaankuka and ³S.M. Tornenge

^1,2&3Department of Agricultural and Environmental Engineering,

University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria.

E-mail: jawulu@yahoo.com

Abstract: A fabricated Calcium Carbide Hover and Kerosene Lamp were used as sources of energy for brooding day old chicks. Six (6) brooding boxes were constructed and used for this experiment. One hundred and twenty (120) chicks were bought at day old with each box having twenty (20) chicks. Feed and water were supplied three times daily. Temperature was measured using wet and dry bulb thermometer four (4) times daily at six (6) hours interval. Feed supplied was measured on daily bases. Standard feed conversion ratio was used to determine feed intake and body weight gain of the chicks which were recorded on weekly bases using weighing balance. Mortality of chicks for both energy types of brooding was recorded. Results obtained showed that brooding hover had a mean temperature of 31.0⁰C while kerosene lamp had 30.8⁰C. Mortality for carbide hover was 5%, while kerosene lamp was 8.33%. The cost of brooding using carbide hover was N2,868.00 and kerosene lamp was N3,827.25. Brooding hover had a mean body weight gain of 0.424kg as against 0.414kg for kerosene lamp. Feed conversion ratio was 1.5 for carbide hover and 1.6 for kerosene lamp. ANOVA results showed that there was significant difference in cost of operation but no significant difference was observed between the temperatures, mortality rates, and feed conversion rates for the two energy types considered.  This experiment showed that hover can be used as an energy source for small scale brooding in place of kerosene stove.   

EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS KOLA NUT (COLA NITIDA) EXTRACTS ON THE CONTRACTION OF ISOLATED RABBIT ILEUM

¹Alagwu E.A, ²Osim E.E, ³Nwozor C.M and ²Edom O.T

¹Department of Physiology, Imo State University, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.

²Department of Physiology, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.

³Department of Physiology, Anambra State University, Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria.

E-mail: corneliusnwozor@gmail.com

ASSESSMENT OF THE HYGIENIC PRACTICES OF FOOD VENDORS AND GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION IN SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS FROM ABEOKUTA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

¹Adewunmi A.R, ²Ajayi J.O and ³Omotoso B.O.A

^1,2Science Laboratory Technology Department, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Ojere, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

³Food Technology Department, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Ojere, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

E-mail: adebisyadewunmy@yahoo.com

Abstract: The chances of food contamination largely depend on the health status of food handlers or vendors and their hygiene behaviors and practices. Information regarding food vendors’ practices is key to addressing the trend of increasing food-borne diseases. In this study, the hygienic practices of food vendors and government intervention in selected secondary schools in Abeokuta South Local Government shall be examined. Structured questionnaires and observational checklists were administered to thirty – nine (39) respondents which were picked randomly from the 20 secondary schools in the study area. All the respondents were female. The average age of the vendors was 38 – 42 years. The percentage of the respondents that washed their hands regularly is below average (< 50%). A significant number of the vendors were either not wearing appropriate uniform or their uniform was dirty. About half of the respondents do not have handkerchiefs for drying hands after washing, during coughing or sneezing. Almost all the vendors claimed to have undergone food handling training organized by the appropriate governmental agency, however many of the respondents submitted that the training was self sponsored. It was observed that the activities of this vendors were not been monitored by the appropriate governmental bodies, and this is evident in the hygienic practices of the food vendors, which was discovered to be below standard.

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BACTERIAL ISOLATES ASSOCIATED WITH THE SKIN OF CLARIAS GARIEPINUS AND HETEROBRANCHUS BIDORSALIS IN KAINJI LAKE AREA

IN KAINJI LAKE AREA

Kolndadacha, O.D¹. Adikwu, A. I.², Okaeme A.N.¹,Orgem, C.M.³, Atiribom, R.Y¹. and Mshelia M.B¹.

¹National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research (NIFFR), New Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria.

²Department of Biological Science, Benue State University, Benue State, Nigeria.

³Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.

E-mail: kolnda@yahoo.com Abstract: One hundred and twenty (120) apparently healthy Heterobranchus bidorsalis and Clarias anguillaris from National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research (NIFFR) as cultured and Monai and Wara villages as wild environment were obtained for the studies. The total bacterial load varied from 2.2×10⁵ to 1.08×10⁸ and 2.27×10⁵ to 6.3×10⁸ CFU/g of the skin of C. anguillaris and H. bidorsalis in the culture respectively, while the load varied from 1.77 x 10⁵ to 1.17×10⁸ and 2.27 x 10⁵ to 9.0×10⁷ CFU/g in the wild respectively. Eleven bacterial genera/species were identified which include: Bacillus species, B. firmus, Pseudomonas species, P. aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella aerogenes, K. ozaenae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, S. faecalis, and Aeromonas species. The aims of this investigation is to compare the type and the load of bacteria isolates on the skin of catfish in

TOXICITY OF SNIPER 1000EC ON RESPIRATORY DYNAMICS OF OREOCHROMIS NILOTICUS (TREWAVAS, 1983) UNDER LABORATORY CONDITIONS

Abubakar, Musa Idi-ogede

Department of Biology

College of Education, Zuba, Abuja, Nigeria.

E-mail: a.midiog@yahoo.com

Abstract: Indiscriminate use of Sniper 1000EC has become a serious problem among local fishermen in the Northern parts of Niger state. A 96hrs static bioassay was carried out to determine the effect of 2, 3 dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate (Sniper 1000EC) on Respiratory dynamics of Oreochromis niloticus (Trewavas, 1983) with mean body weight 16.05 ± 1.02; mean standard length 9.60 ± 0.38cm. O. niloticus showed different respiratory dynamics to varying concentrations of sniper 1000EC (0, 3, 4, 5 and 6mg/l) due to its toxicity. OVR (Opercula ventilation rate) appeared to be more sensitive than TFB (Tail fin beat). These changes were attributed to the toxicant. It is concluded that respiratory dynamics were consequences of exposure to sniper 1000EC. It is recommended that the use of Sniper 1000EC by local fishermen be banned to preserve the aquatic ecosystem.    

ENTREPRENEURIAL APPROACH TO BROILER PRODUCTION IN AWKA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Uche Okeke

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension

Anambra State University, Igbariam Campus, Anambra State, Nigeria.

E-mail: victorokeke67@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

The study examined entrepreneurial approach to broiler production in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra state, Nigeria. Data for the study were collected using structured questionnaire administered to 50 respondents who were related through multi-stage and random sampling methods. The study revealed intensive method of production; accounting and management approaches to broiler production were common. Broiler production was profitable with gross margin of N9, 082,000; net farm income of N6, 794,000, net return on investment of 0.95 and profitability of 0.49. Problem encountered by the farmers were lack of capital, high cost of feeds, marketing problems, drugs and vitamin failure. The study recommended subsidization of inputs, provision of soft loans and placing of high import duties on foreign chicken would increase productivity, preference of local broiler producers and creating of market for their products.