Phone: +2348035387156 Address: Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.
African swine fever (ASF) is a contagious viral disease that affects pigs of all ages, inducing h... more African swine fever (ASF) is a contagious viral disease that affects pigs of all ages, inducing hemorrhagic fever with high mortality and severe threat to pig production. This study investigated the hematological and serum biochemical abnormalities associated with a natural ASF infection in pigs. A total of 100 serum samples of pigs from piggery suspected of ASFV infection were screened for antibodies by ELISA. Thirty‑two blood samples from serologically positive pigs and 32 negative pigs were undergo to hematological and serum biochemical analyses following standard procedures. The results showed that the mean values of the red blood cell (RBC) count, total white blood cell (TWBC) count, absolute lymphocyte count, absolute monocyte count, serum total protein (TP) and globulin were significantly (p < 0.05) lower while the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), absolute neutrophil count and serum gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the infected than the healthy pigs. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the mean values of the packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration, absolute eosinophil count, cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities between the infected and healthy pigs. Hence, natural ASFV infection may have caused alterations in the hematological and serum biochemical parameters in the infected pigs. The generated data could complement the existing laboratory diagnostic techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, direct fluorescence antibody test, indirect fluorescent antibody test and ELISA in the diagnosis of ASF in pigs.
This Dog ownership in Nigeria, patterns a combination of supervised and stray dogs. The latter co... more This Dog ownership in Nigeria, patterns a combination of supervised and stray dogs. The latter constituting Public health challenges. This study relates ecology; dynamics of dog breeds, ownership, management; adherence/non-adherence to extant laws on dog ownership with Rabies endemicity in Nsukka. It proffers recommendations for sustainable Rabies control & vaccination campaign Key Message Nsukka is endemic for Rabies. Statutory control and prevention strategies do not suffice. Understanding the human-dog-interactions as core risk factors for endemicity of Rabies and breaking this link can lead to a Rabies free environment. Abbreviations: FAO: Food and Agricultural Organisation; DFID: Department for International Development; PME: Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, WHO: World Health Organisation
Background: Equine laminitis is considered as one of the major health problems affecting equine s... more Background: Equine laminitis is considered as one of the major health problems affecting equine species. Haematological and serum biochemical assessments are often used for diagnosis of both human and animal diseases. Despite numerus findings on induced acute laminitis in horses, little is known about the haematological and serum biochemical changes associated with chronic laminitis. The current study aimed to evaluate the hematological and biochemical changes in horses with chronic laminitis. Methods: A total of 60 horses comprising of 22 apparently healthy horses (group A) and 38 horses radiographically diagnosed as laminitis (group B) were studied during 2018-2019 laboratory investigation. Blood collection for hematology and serum biochemistry were carried out aseptically via the jugular vein. The packed cell volume (PCV) and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) were determined using micro-haematocrit and cyanomethaemoglobin methods respectively. White blood cell (WBC) and red blood cell (RBC) counts were determined using haemocytometer method. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities were determined by the Reitman-Frankel method. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, total protein, albumin and creatinine were determined using phenolphthalein monophosphate, biuret, bromocresol green and modified Jaffe methods respectively. Parameters were analyzed using student t-test. Results: The PCV, HB, RBC, WBC and neutrophil counts in groups B were significantly lower compared to group A (control). Lymphocytes, monocytes, basiophils, eosinophils and the biochemical parameters in the control group (group A) horses did not vary significantly (P greater than 0.05) with group B (horses with laminitis). The haematological profiles depict anaemic state of the laminitis in horses. Non-differing enzymatic activities in the two groups could suggest that there may not be muscular, renal, intestinal and hepatic disorders involvement with the occurrence of chronic laminitis in the assessed horses.
Trypanosomosis of the West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep is often neglected due to emphasis on trypan... more Trypanosomosis of the West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep is often neglected due to emphasis on trypanotolerance. Nevertheless, significant pathological changes may occur in tissues of infected WAD sheep. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the brain, pituitary, and adrenal lesions of Trypanosoma brucei brucei (Tbb) and Trypanosoma congolense (Tc) infections in WAD rams. Fifteen WAD rams were infected intraperitoneally with Tbb or Tc (106 trypanosomes/animal) or were uninfected controls (5 rams per group). Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol were assayed in serum by enzyme immunoassay technique. The brain, pituitary, and adrenal glands were processed for histopathology. Serum ACTH levels of infected rams were significantly ( P < .05) higher than that of controls on days 14 and 70 post infection (PI). Serum cortisol levels of infected rams were significantly ( P < .05) higher than that of controls only on day 14 PI. Mortality was 60% in Tbb- and 40% in Tc-infected...
Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology, 2021
Cancer is a disease resulting in unbridled growth of cells due to dysregulation in the balance of... more Cancer is a disease resulting in unbridled growth of cells due to dysregulation in the balance of cell populations. Various management procedures in handling cases of cancer are not without their adverse side effects on the normal cells. Medicinal plants/herbs have been in use in the management of various ailments, including cancer, for a long time. Medicinal plants have been credited with wide safety margins, cost effectiveness, availability and diverse activities. This study reviewed various mechanisms of anti-cancer activities of some medicinal plants from a biochemical perspective. The mechanisms of anti-cancer activities of plant compounds addressed in this article include induction of apoptosis, anti-angiogenic effects, anti-metastasis, inhibition of cell cycle, inhibition of DNA destruction and effects on key enzymes, cytotoxic and anti-oxidant effects. The anti-cancer activities of some of the plants involve more than one mechanism.
Trypanotolerance of the West African dwarf (WAD) breeds may not rule out significant pathophysiol... more Trypanotolerance of the West African dwarf (WAD) breeds may not rule out significant pathophysiological changes that may affect productivity. In this study, the effects of infection of WAD rams with Trypanosoma brucei brucei (Tbb) and Trypanosoma congolense (Tc) on their serum levels of electrolytes [calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium]; oxidative stress markers [superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA)]; and sperm parameters [sperm count, motility, vitality, and morphology] were investigated. Fifteen WAD rams, assigned to 3 groups (A, B & C) of 5 rams each, were used for the study. Group A rams were infected with Tbb, while Group B rams were infected with Tc, both intraperitoneally, at the dose of 106 trypanosomes/animal. Group C rams served as the uninfected control. The infections were monitored for 70 days. Serum calcium levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in Tbb and Tc infected rams compared to the control throughout the study. Serum sodium was significant...
Chickens are highly susceptible to velogenic Newcastle disease virus (vNDV), but the relative sus... more Chickens are highly susceptible to velogenic Newcastle disease virus (vNDV), but the relative susceptibility of different sexes of chickens has not yet been investigated or reported. This study compared the clinical signs and pathological lesions in cockerels and pullets experimentally infected with vNDV. Sixty cockerels and sixty pullets were used for the study. They were each randomly assigned to two groups of 30 each-infected and uninfected groups. Cockerels and pullets in the infected groups were inoculated with the Kuru duck-113 strain of the Newcastle disease virus. Clinical signs were recorded, and blood samples were collected and subjected to haematology and serum protein assay. Also gross lesions were recorded at the necropsy of dead infected birds. Sections of tissues were processed for histopathology. Results showed that, following virus infection, the pullets and cockerels exhibited comparable clinical signs, except for body weight, which was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in infected cockerels when compared with the uninfected. Cumulative morbidity and mortality were higher in infected cockerels than in pullets on days 2, 3 and 4 post-infection (PI). At necropsy, gross enlargement of the spleen and proventricular mucosal hemorrhages were more severe in infected cockerels than in infected pullets. The erythrocytic profile of the infected cockerels was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the uninfected cockerels, but there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the erythrocytic profile of the infected and uninfected pullets. Serum total protein of the infected pullets was significantly higher (p < 0.05) higher than that of the uninfected pullets, but the serum globulin levels of both infected cockerels and pullets were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of their uninfected controls. It was concluded that vNDV-infected cockerels showed higher susceptibility and more severe pathological lesions than infected pullets.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is used globally as food supplement and widely acclaimed as therapeutic... more Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is used globally as food supplement and widely acclaimed as therapeutic agent for various ill-health conditions. This study investigated the effect of consuming ACV during pregnancy on the haematological and biochemical profile of adult female albino rats in correlation with morphometric of the litters. Graded concentrations of ACV were administered to gestating albino rats to evaluate their effects on haematological and biochemical parameters of gestating rats and morphology of their pups at delivery. Ninety-six rats comprising 48 females (12 to 13 weeks old) and 48 males (15 weeks old) were used. The impregnated rats were randomly assigned to four groups (A, B, C and D) of 12 rats each. Each group was further sub-assigned into three replicates of four rats. Group A served as the untreated control while groups B, C and D were treated. Before and after 3-week period of treatment, blood samples were taken from the rats for haematological and serum biochemical evaluations following standard procedures. There were no significant variations (p > 0.05) between the groups in pup litter size, crown rump length and body mass index (BMI). There were also no significant variations (p > 0.05) between the groups in post-treatment values of packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, absolute eosinophil counts and serum levels of calcium. Lower pup weight and higher litter size (at lower doses), lower lymphocyte and neutrophil counts, and lower serum activity of ALT, AST and ALP enzymes were recorded. ACV as used in this study has no adverse effects on haematological and biochemical profiles of gestating rats and their pups. It may therefore be safe to take ACV during pregnancy apart from other uninvestigated consequences.
International Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences
This study evaluated the comparative effects of diets containing 50 and 70% Citrullus lanatus or ... more This study evaluated the comparative effects of diets containing 50 and 70% Citrullus lanatus or Cajanus cajan on the serum lipid profile and body weight of albino rats. Thirty male albino rats randomly assigned into five groups (A – E) of six each were used for the study. The groupings and their diets were as follows: A – Standard rat feed (control), B – diet containing 50% C. lanatus, C – diet containing 70 % C. lanatus, D - diet containing 50% C. cajan, and E - diet containing 70% C. cajan. The rats were fed their group specific diets for 28 days during which they were weighed at weekly intervals. At the end of the 28 days of feeding, blood was collected from the rats and the serum lipid profile was assayed following standard procedures. Results showed that the rat groups fed diets containing 50 and 70 % C. lanatus had a significantly higher (p < 0.05) serum total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) but...
African swine fever (ASF) is a contagious viral disease that affects pigs of all ages, inducing h... more African swine fever (ASF) is a contagious viral disease that affects pigs of all ages, inducing hemorrhagic fever with high mortality and severe threat to pig production. This study investigated the hematological and serum biochemical abnormalities associated with a natural ASF infection in pigs. A total of 100 serum samples of pigs from piggery suspected of ASFV infection were screened for antibodies by ELISA. Thirty‑two blood samples from serologically positive pigs and 32 negative pigs were undergo to hematological and serum biochemical analyses following standard procedures. The results showed that the mean values of the red blood cell (RBC) count, total white blood cell (TWBC) count, absolute lymphocyte count, absolute monocyte count, serum total protein (TP) and globulin were significantly (p < 0.05) lower while the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), absolute neutrophil count and serum gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the infected than the healthy pigs. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the mean values of the packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration, absolute eosinophil count, cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities between the infected and healthy pigs. Hence, natural ASFV infection may have caused alterations in the hematological and serum biochemical parameters in the infected pigs. The generated data could complement the existing laboratory diagnostic techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, direct fluorescence antibody test, indirect fluorescent antibody test and ELISA in the diagnosis of ASF in pigs.
This Dog ownership in Nigeria, patterns a combination of supervised and stray dogs. The latter co... more This Dog ownership in Nigeria, patterns a combination of supervised and stray dogs. The latter constituting Public health challenges. This study relates ecology; dynamics of dog breeds, ownership, management; adherence/non-adherence to extant laws on dog ownership with Rabies endemicity in Nsukka. It proffers recommendations for sustainable Rabies control & vaccination campaign Key Message Nsukka is endemic for Rabies. Statutory control and prevention strategies do not suffice. Understanding the human-dog-interactions as core risk factors for endemicity of Rabies and breaking this link can lead to a Rabies free environment. Abbreviations: FAO: Food and Agricultural Organisation; DFID: Department for International Development; PME: Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, WHO: World Health Organisation
Background: Equine laminitis is considered as one of the major health problems affecting equine s... more Background: Equine laminitis is considered as one of the major health problems affecting equine species. Haematological and serum biochemical assessments are often used for diagnosis of both human and animal diseases. Despite numerus findings on induced acute laminitis in horses, little is known about the haematological and serum biochemical changes associated with chronic laminitis. The current study aimed to evaluate the hematological and biochemical changes in horses with chronic laminitis. Methods: A total of 60 horses comprising of 22 apparently healthy horses (group A) and 38 horses radiographically diagnosed as laminitis (group B) were studied during 2018-2019 laboratory investigation. Blood collection for hematology and serum biochemistry were carried out aseptically via the jugular vein. The packed cell volume (PCV) and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) were determined using micro-haematocrit and cyanomethaemoglobin methods respectively. White blood cell (WBC) and red blood cell (RBC) counts were determined using haemocytometer method. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities were determined by the Reitman-Frankel method. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, total protein, albumin and creatinine were determined using phenolphthalein monophosphate, biuret, bromocresol green and modified Jaffe methods respectively. Parameters were analyzed using student t-test. Results: The PCV, HB, RBC, WBC and neutrophil counts in groups B were significantly lower compared to group A (control). Lymphocytes, monocytes, basiophils, eosinophils and the biochemical parameters in the control group (group A) horses did not vary significantly (P greater than 0.05) with group B (horses with laminitis). The haematological profiles depict anaemic state of the laminitis in horses. Non-differing enzymatic activities in the two groups could suggest that there may not be muscular, renal, intestinal and hepatic disorders involvement with the occurrence of chronic laminitis in the assessed horses.
Trypanosomosis of the West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep is often neglected due to emphasis on trypan... more Trypanosomosis of the West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep is often neglected due to emphasis on trypanotolerance. Nevertheless, significant pathological changes may occur in tissues of infected WAD sheep. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the brain, pituitary, and adrenal lesions of Trypanosoma brucei brucei (Tbb) and Trypanosoma congolense (Tc) infections in WAD rams. Fifteen WAD rams were infected intraperitoneally with Tbb or Tc (106 trypanosomes/animal) or were uninfected controls (5 rams per group). Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol were assayed in serum by enzyme immunoassay technique. The brain, pituitary, and adrenal glands were processed for histopathology. Serum ACTH levels of infected rams were significantly ( P < .05) higher than that of controls on days 14 and 70 post infection (PI). Serum cortisol levels of infected rams were significantly ( P < .05) higher than that of controls only on day 14 PI. Mortality was 60% in Tbb- and 40% in Tc-infected...
Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology, 2021
Cancer is a disease resulting in unbridled growth of cells due to dysregulation in the balance of... more Cancer is a disease resulting in unbridled growth of cells due to dysregulation in the balance of cell populations. Various management procedures in handling cases of cancer are not without their adverse side effects on the normal cells. Medicinal plants/herbs have been in use in the management of various ailments, including cancer, for a long time. Medicinal plants have been credited with wide safety margins, cost effectiveness, availability and diverse activities. This study reviewed various mechanisms of anti-cancer activities of some medicinal plants from a biochemical perspective. The mechanisms of anti-cancer activities of plant compounds addressed in this article include induction of apoptosis, anti-angiogenic effects, anti-metastasis, inhibition of cell cycle, inhibition of DNA destruction and effects on key enzymes, cytotoxic and anti-oxidant effects. The anti-cancer activities of some of the plants involve more than one mechanism.
Trypanotolerance of the West African dwarf (WAD) breeds may not rule out significant pathophysiol... more Trypanotolerance of the West African dwarf (WAD) breeds may not rule out significant pathophysiological changes that may affect productivity. In this study, the effects of infection of WAD rams with Trypanosoma brucei brucei (Tbb) and Trypanosoma congolense (Tc) on their serum levels of electrolytes [calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium]; oxidative stress markers [superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA)]; and sperm parameters [sperm count, motility, vitality, and morphology] were investigated. Fifteen WAD rams, assigned to 3 groups (A, B & C) of 5 rams each, were used for the study. Group A rams were infected with Tbb, while Group B rams were infected with Tc, both intraperitoneally, at the dose of 106 trypanosomes/animal. Group C rams served as the uninfected control. The infections were monitored for 70 days. Serum calcium levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in Tbb and Tc infected rams compared to the control throughout the study. Serum sodium was significant...
Chickens are highly susceptible to velogenic Newcastle disease virus (vNDV), but the relative sus... more Chickens are highly susceptible to velogenic Newcastle disease virus (vNDV), but the relative susceptibility of different sexes of chickens has not yet been investigated or reported. This study compared the clinical signs and pathological lesions in cockerels and pullets experimentally infected with vNDV. Sixty cockerels and sixty pullets were used for the study. They were each randomly assigned to two groups of 30 each-infected and uninfected groups. Cockerels and pullets in the infected groups were inoculated with the Kuru duck-113 strain of the Newcastle disease virus. Clinical signs were recorded, and blood samples were collected and subjected to haematology and serum protein assay. Also gross lesions were recorded at the necropsy of dead infected birds. Sections of tissues were processed for histopathology. Results showed that, following virus infection, the pullets and cockerels exhibited comparable clinical signs, except for body weight, which was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in infected cockerels when compared with the uninfected. Cumulative morbidity and mortality were higher in infected cockerels than in pullets on days 2, 3 and 4 post-infection (PI). At necropsy, gross enlargement of the spleen and proventricular mucosal hemorrhages were more severe in infected cockerels than in infected pullets. The erythrocytic profile of the infected cockerels was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the uninfected cockerels, but there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the erythrocytic profile of the infected and uninfected pullets. Serum total protein of the infected pullets was significantly higher (p < 0.05) higher than that of the uninfected pullets, but the serum globulin levels of both infected cockerels and pullets were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of their uninfected controls. It was concluded that vNDV-infected cockerels showed higher susceptibility and more severe pathological lesions than infected pullets.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is used globally as food supplement and widely acclaimed as therapeutic... more Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is used globally as food supplement and widely acclaimed as therapeutic agent for various ill-health conditions. This study investigated the effect of consuming ACV during pregnancy on the haematological and biochemical profile of adult female albino rats in correlation with morphometric of the litters. Graded concentrations of ACV were administered to gestating albino rats to evaluate their effects on haematological and biochemical parameters of gestating rats and morphology of their pups at delivery. Ninety-six rats comprising 48 females (12 to 13 weeks old) and 48 males (15 weeks old) were used. The impregnated rats were randomly assigned to four groups (A, B, C and D) of 12 rats each. Each group was further sub-assigned into three replicates of four rats. Group A served as the untreated control while groups B, C and D were treated. Before and after 3-week period of treatment, blood samples were taken from the rats for haematological and serum biochemical evaluations following standard procedures. There were no significant variations (p > 0.05) between the groups in pup litter size, crown rump length and body mass index (BMI). There were also no significant variations (p > 0.05) between the groups in post-treatment values of packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, absolute eosinophil counts and serum levels of calcium. Lower pup weight and higher litter size (at lower doses), lower lymphocyte and neutrophil counts, and lower serum activity of ALT, AST and ALP enzymes were recorded. ACV as used in this study has no adverse effects on haematological and biochemical profiles of gestating rats and their pups. It may therefore be safe to take ACV during pregnancy apart from other uninvestigated consequences.
International Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences
This study evaluated the comparative effects of diets containing 50 and 70% Citrullus lanatus or ... more This study evaluated the comparative effects of diets containing 50 and 70% Citrullus lanatus or Cajanus cajan on the serum lipid profile and body weight of albino rats. Thirty male albino rats randomly assigned into five groups (A – E) of six each were used for the study. The groupings and their diets were as follows: A – Standard rat feed (control), B – diet containing 50% C. lanatus, C – diet containing 70 % C. lanatus, D - diet containing 50% C. cajan, and E - diet containing 70% C. cajan. The rats were fed their group specific diets for 28 days during which they were weighed at weekly intervals. At the end of the 28 days of feeding, blood was collected from the rats and the serum lipid profile was assayed following standard procedures. Results showed that the rat groups fed diets containing 50 and 70 % C. lanatus had a significantly higher (p < 0.05) serum total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) but...
SAVING SIGHT AND LIFE WITH FOOD RICH IN VITAMIN A ACTIVITY, 2000
Vitamin A deficiency is a public health problem in most communities because people are unaware of... more Vitamin A deficiency is a public health problem in most communities because people are unaware of the vitamin, its functions/importance, its food sources, and its deficiency disorders. This booklet presents the above information in an easy-to-read-and-understand 'question and answer' format, with special emphasis on the value of locally available, richly abundant, low cost vitamin A rich foods in the prevention and control of vitamin A deficiency disorders.
Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology is an undergraduate course book on the pathology of... more Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology is an undergraduate course book on the pathology of the body systems of animals, which was developed in response to the need and yearnings for readily available books and study materials for undergraduate veterinary students. The contents of “Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology” extensively cover the systemic veterinary pathology syllabus of standard paraclinical veterinary curriculum/programme and even more. The widely pedagogically recommended integrated format for content selection was followed, such that the already acquired basic knowledge of veterinary anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of each body system was briefly reviewed in the “Introduction” to each system and carefully integrated into the discussion of lesions in order to establish a link and lay a solid foundation for the acquisition of the new knowledge of the pathology of the body systems that was presented. The diseases associated with the lesions discussed in each of the body systems and the possible clinical implications of the lesions were also briefly reviewed in order to further integrate the study of the pathology of the body systems with that of specific diseases (special pathology) and clinical medicine. Volume 1 of Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology covers the pathology of the integument, muscle, haematopoietic system, nervous system and organs of special sense (eye and ear), while Volume 2 contains presentations on the pathology of the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. In both volumes, pathologic changes were described in simple language that demystified the wrong belief among students that pathology is difficult to study. Numerous photographs and illustrations were inserted where appropriate in order to bring to life the gross and microscopic appearance of the lesions discussed in the body systems. Beyond describing lesions, the pathogenesis and pathologic basis for the lesions were clearly presented in order to enhance in-depth understanding of the disease process; this was considered important because knowledge of pathology is needed beyond the veterinary school, in fact, it is much more important in field veterinary practice after graduation.
Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology is an undergraduate course book on the pathology of... more Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology is an undergraduate course book on the pathology of the body systems of animals, which was developed in response to the need and yearnings for readily available books and study materials for undergraduate veterinary students. The contents of “Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology” extensively cover the systemic veterinary pathology syllabus of standard paraclinical veterinary curriculum/programme and even more. The widely pedagogically recommended integrated format for content selection was followed, such that the already acquired basic knowledge of veterinary anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of each body system was briefly reviewed in the “Introduction” to each system and carefully integrated into the discussion of lesions in order to establish a link and lay a solid foundation for the acquisition of the new knowledge of the pathology of the body systems that was presented. The diseases associated with the lesions discussed in each of the body systems and the possible clinical implications of the lesions were also briefly reviewed in order to further integrate the study of the pathology of the body systems with that of specific diseases (special pathology) and clinical medicine. Volume 1 of Fundamentals of Systemic Veterinary Pathology covers the pathology of the integument, muscle, haematopoietic system, nervous system and organs of special sense (eye and ear), while Volume 2 contains presentations on the pathology of the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. In both volumes, pathologic changes were described in simple language that demystified the wrong belief among students that pathology is difficult to study. Numerous photographs and illustrations were inserted where appropriate in order to bring to life the gross and microscopic appearance of the lesions discussed in the body systems. Beyond describing lesions, the pathogenesis and pathologic basis for the lesions were clearly presented in order to enhance in-depth understanding of the disease process; this was considered important because knowledge of pathology is needed beyond the veterinary school, in fact, it is much more important in field veterinary practice after graduation.
Project Report presented for the award of a Fellowship Diploma in Clinical Pathology of the Postgraduate College of Veterinary Surgeons, Nigeria. Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria, 2011
This study investigated the clinico-pathologic changes in cases of ascites in dogs presented at t... more This study investigated the clinico-pathologic changes in cases of ascites in dogs presented at the three major veterinary clinics in Enugu State and also assessed the efficacy of recommended therapeutic interventions. All dogs presented at the State Veterinary Hospital (SVH), Uwani Enugu, Zonal Veterinary Clinic (ZVC) Nsukka and University of Nigeria Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UNVTH), Nsukka between January and December 2010 were the study population of which 14 presented with clinically observable ascites. Only cases of clinically observable ascites (grade 3 ascites) were reported and followed up. Blood samples were collected from reported cases for haematology and serum chemistry tests, while the ascites fluids were collected for cytological and relevant clinical chemistry determinations. Blood samples were also collected from 12 apparently healthy non-ascitic dogs from the study population to serve as control. All haematology, cytology and clinical chemistry tests were carried out following standard manual procedures. Based on the results of the investigations, the cases were categorized according to their causative types and treated with diuretics for 7 days, and other specific recommended treatments (for a maximum of 10 days) depending on the causative type. Fifteen days after commencement of treatment, the dogs were re-examined and blood and ascitic fluid (where still available) were collected for haematology, clinical chemistry and cytological tests. Results showed that out of a total of 1788 dogs presented in the 3 clinics during the study period, 14 had ascites (0.78%), and there were no significant differences between the prevalence obtained from the different clinics (0.6% for SVH, Uwani, Enugu; 1.0% for UNVTH, Nsukka, and 0.7% for ZVC, Nsukka). There was also no significant association between sex and prevalence. However, the prevalence was higher in dogs 3 years and above (71.4%) than in those 1 to 2.9 years of age (21.4%) and those less than 1 year of age (7.1%). Based on the results of the serum chemistry principally and the haematology to a lesser extent, the 14 cases were classified aetiologically into four types: cirrhotic liver disease (CLD) – 14.3%, chronic active hepatitis (CAH) – 21.4%, congestive heart failure (CHF) – 50%, and kidney damage (KD) – 14.3%. Each of these causative types presented characteristic serum chemistry changes specifically and some characteristic haematological findings in some cases. Cases of CLD had characteristic significantly (p < 0.05) very low serum activity of alanine amino tranferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and very low serum urea levels and also significantly (p < 0.05) very high serum activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP); while cases with CAH had a characteristic significantly (p < 0.05) very high serum activity of ALT, AST and ALP when compared to the controls. Cases of CHF were characterized by significantly (p < 0.05) very high serum AST activity, while the KD cases were characterized by significantly (p < 0.05) very high serum levels of creatinine and urea, significantly (p < 0.05) very low packed cell volume, red blood cell counts and haemoglobin concentrations. The ascitic fluids were transudates in all cases, with only minor differences in their total protein and cell counts. All cases of CLD and CAH that were followed up recovered fully, but cases of CHF and KD showed no recovery.
Project Report presented for the award of Certificate in Higher Education Pedagogy. Virtual Institute for Higher Education Pedagogy, National Universities Commission, Abuja, Nigeria., 2004
Thesis presented for the award of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree in Veterinary Pathology (Specialization: Clinical Pathology). Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka., 2002
This study investigated the possible use of vitamin A supplementation to boost host immune respon... more This study investigated the possible use of vitamin A supplementation to boost host immune response in order to overcome the immunosuppression associated with trypanosomosis. A preliminary assessment of the body vitamin A status of rats infected with T. brucei revealed that infection led to a significant (p < 0.01) progressive depletion of 37 – 70% of body vitamin A status from day 5 post-infection (pi) till day 25 when most of the infected rats had died. Oral administration of 30,000 IU of vitamin A palmitate supplement to a group of rats for three consecutive days before their being infected a week later, led to a significant (p < 0.01) delay in onset of parasitaemia till day 10 pi (compared to day 6 in the untreated group), and also led to significantly (p < 0.01) lower levels of parasitaemia all through the experimental period when compared with the unsupplemented group. The supplemented group also exhibited significantly (p < 0.01) higher total leucocyte response, with significantly (p < 0.01) higher absolute lymphocyte, monocyte and eosinophil counts from day 14 pi to day 28 pi when most of the rats in all the groups had died. An assessment of the antibody response of supplemented-infected (SI) and unsupplemented-infected (UI) rat groups to antigenic challenge with sheep red blood cells (SRBC) showed that the SI group had a significantly (p < 0.01) higher geometric mean antibody titre (GMAT) than the UI group. The GMAT of the SI group was favourably comparable and not significantly (p > 0.05) different from the unsupplemented-uninfected (UU) group. The supplemented-uninfected (SU) group showed a significantly (p < 0.01) very much higher GMAT all through the experimental period when compared with all other groups (SI, UI, UU). Also the SI group showed a faster recovery of its immuno-competence following treatment with diminazene aceturate when compared with the UI group which had a significantly (p < 0.01) lower GMAT from the day of treatment till the end of the experimental work. The GMAT of individual rats was found to be strongly and significantly negatively correlated to the level of parasitaemia all through the experimental period in the two infected groups (r = -0.705, p < 0.01). These results showed that vitamin A could enhance antibody response to T. brucei infection in rats and successfully overcome the immunosuppression associated with it. These findings are of immense veterinary importance considering the reported negative effects of immunosuppression on immune response to vaccine antigens in endemic areas, and the fact that those secondary/opportunistic infections, which the immunosuppression predisposes infected animals to accounts for a large percentage of the pathology and losses associated with African trypanosomosis.
Project Report for the award of Diploma in Statistics and Computer Applications (DSCA), Departments of Statistics and Computer Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 1999
Dissertation for the award of Master of Science (MSc) Degree in Veterinary Pathology (Specialization: Clinical Pathology), Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka., 1998
This study investigated the effects of varied periods of fermentation on the diabetogenic potenti... more This study investigated the effects of varied periods of fermentation on the diabetogenic potential of toasted cassava granules (gari). Thirty growing male albino rats were used for the study. The rats were divided randomly into 6 groups of 5 each to which were fed gari diets produced with fermentation periods of 0 hrs., 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs., an oil fermented variant of the 24 hour gari, and a control diet of normal rat pellets respectively. Data on total cyanogen content and percentage crude protein of the diets; and fasting blood glucose levels (FBGL), glucose tolerance (GT), packed cell volume (PCV), body weight, water consumption and feed consumption of the rats were collected for the different groups. Clinical observations were also made and at necropsy a gross and histopathological examination of selected organs was carried out. Results showed that the total cyanogen content and the percentage crude protein of the diets were depleted as fermentation periods were increased. The FBGL of all the gari-fed groups were significantly elevated (p<0.01). The GT of all the gari-fed groups were also significantly impaired (p<0.01) and there was a further significant variation (p<0.01) of the glucose tolerance between the groups (different periods of fermentation). The variation in FBGL/GT between the groups was found to be strongly inversely correlated to the percentage crude protein content of their diets (Pearson r = -0.94 and -0.95 respectively). There were significant falls (p<0.01) in the PCV and body weights of the gari-fed rats, which did not vary with the fermentation periods. The water:feed consumption ratio and clinical signs of toxicity were significantly higher in the group fed the 24-hour non-oil fermented gari. Gross examination revealed atrophy and wasting of the body tissues and organs of all the gari fed rats. Histopathology revealed tubular degeneration and glomerular shrinkage in the kidney, vacuolar degeneration of the liver, vacuolation and depletion of the islet tissues of some of the pancreas, and neuronal degeneration/necrosis in the nervous tissues of the gari fed rats. It was therefore concluded that the diabetogenic potential of gari diet strongly depends on its protein content while the manifestations of clinical signs of chronic cyanide toxicity depends on the levels of free and unbound cyanogens which had been found to be highest in the 24 hour fermented gari. Fermentation in oil was found to ameliorate the manifestation of these clinical signs.
Blood profiles of 60 Nigerian horses comprising of 22 apparently healthy (group A, as control), 2... more Blood profiles of 60 Nigerian horses comprising of 22 apparently healthy (group A, as control), 27 lame non-laminitic (group B) and 11 radiographically confirmed lame laminitic horses was evaluated for possible changes in a 4 month study (March to June, 2017). Five milliliters of blood were collected from the jugular vein of each horse. Parameters evaluated include packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC) count, haemoglobin (HB) concentration and white blood cell (WBC) count. In lame non-laminitic (group B) and lame laminitic (group C) horses, the mean values of PCV and RBC were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than those found in the apparently healthy horses (group A). The mean numbers of white blood cells were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in lame non-laminitic (group B) and lame laminitic (group C) than those found in the apparently healthy horses (group A). The mean values of haemoglobin concentration were slightly lower in lame laminitic (group C) horses than those found in the apparently healthy horses (group A), but lame non-laminitic (group B) horses had practically same HB value with apparently healthy horses (group A). A significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the mean values of neutrophil were found in the lame non-laminitic (group B) and lame laminitic (group C) horses than those found in the apparently healthy horses (group A). Lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils and eosinophils) remained statistically invariable.
The study was carried out to investigate prevalence and risk factors for laminitis in Nigerian ho... more The study was carried out to investigate prevalence and risk factors for laminitis in Nigerian horses by the use of conventional radiological indices for laminitis diagnosis. A total of 212 Nigerian horses were evaluated in a 4 month period comprising of 2 months of the dry season(January and February 2016) and 2 months of the rainy season (June and July, 2016). Confirmed hoof-related forelimb lameness horses were radiographically assessed for laminitis. The horses were grouped based on sex, season and aged as young (1 – 5 years), adult (6 – 10 years) and old (11 years and above). Out of the 212 horses assessed, 66 (31.1%) had hoof-related lameness conditions while 39 (18.4%) horses were radiographically confirmed to be laminitic. Females (8.5%) had a slightly non significant (p >0.05) higher prevalence of laminitis than male horses (9.9%).Young (1.4%) horses had the least prevalent rate of laminitis whereas adult (9.0%) and old (8.0%) horses had the highest. Prevalence of laminitis was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in rainy season (11.8%) than dry season (6.6%).
This study evaluated the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and impaired glucose homeostasis (I... more This study evaluated the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and impaired glucose homeostasis (IGH) in dogs presented for veterinary care at veterinary hospitals/clinics (VH/C) in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. The study was a cross-sectional survey of the fasting blood glucose (FBG) of dogs presented for veterinary care at VH/C in Warri between January and December 2015. Five out of the eight major VH/C in Warri were systematically selected for the study. All dogs presented at the selected VH/C were enrolled for the study with the informed consent of their owners. A total of 2750 dogs of varied breeds and ages, and either sex were enrolled for the study. The FBG was determined using a glucometer based on the glucose oxidase method, after an overnight fast. Diagnosis of DM and IGH in the dogs was based on the World Health Organization criteria for diagnosis of DM and IGH as modified for dogs (FBG ≥ 126mg/dl = DM; FBG ≥ 110mg/dl but < 126mg/dl = IGH; and FBG < 110mg/dl = non-dabetic). Dogs found to be diabetic were confirmed by re-testing and further tests on the urine. Results of the study showed that 6 out of the 2750 dogs (0.22%) evaluated were diabetic, and none had IGH. The 6 diabetic dogs were made up of two Samoyeds and one each of German Shepherd, Mongrel, Lhasa Apso and Dachshund breeds. All the diabetic dogs were adults of age range 4 – 8 years, and there were no significant (p > 0.05) association between the recorded prevalence and sex of the dogs. Urine glucose levels of the diabetic dogs ranged from 50 – 150mg/dl. It was concluded that the prevalence of DM in the dogs studied was 0.22%, and that DM affected mainly adult dogs, with its prevalence not showing any significant association with sex.
This study evaluated the haematological and serum biochemical findings associated with natural tr... more This study evaluated the haematological and serum biochemical findings associated with natural trypanosome infections in Nigerian horses. The study population were trade horses presented for sale and slaughter at the Obollo Afor horse Lairage/Slaughter slab, Udenu Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria. The horse Lairage/Slaughter slab was visited once a week for 6 months during which period a total of 207 horses that were bought for slaughter were clinically examined and blood collected from them for parasitological examination, haematology and serum biochemistry determinations. Out of the 207 horses studied, 5 (2.4%) were infected with trypanosomes, and the trypanosome species involved was Trypanosoma brucei in all the 5 cases. The mean packed cell volume, red blood cell count, haemoglobin concentration, total leukocyte, neutrophil and eosinophil counts, serum protein and albumin levels of the trypanosome infected horses (TIH) was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that of the non-trypanosome infected apparently healthy horses (AHH). The mean erythrocyte corpuscular volume, monocyte and platelet counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than that of the AHH. There was however no significant (p > 0.05) differences between the TIH and AHH in their mean erythrocyte mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, lymphocyte and basophil counts, serum alkaline phosphatase activity, and total cholesterol, creatinine and total bilirubin levels.
This study evaluated the occurrence of diseases and disorders among trade cattle slaughtered betw... more This study evaluated the occurrence of diseases and disorders among trade cattle slaughtered between March 2012 and March 2013 at Nsukka abattoir, Enugu State, Nigeria. The study population was 8,296 cattle slaughtered during this study period, while the sample population evaluated in the cross-sectional survey was 567 cattle slaughtered on days of scheduled research visits to the abattoir, which was once in two weeks across the 13-month study period. Diagnosis of the diseases/disorders encountered during the study followed standard procedures. Results showed that out of the 567 cattle sampled, 82 (14.46%) had diseases/disorders, while 485 were apparently healthy. The occurrences of specific diseases/disorders were as follows: fasciolosis – 8.47%, tuberculosis – 1.76%, trypanosomosis – 1.41%, skin disorders – 0.88%, paramphistomosis – 0.71%, neoplasms – 0.18%, and cachexia of unknown aetiology – 1.06%. Among the 485 apparently healthy cattle, 9 (1.59%) were found with foetus in their uterus at slaughter (pregnant). It was concluded that the occurrence of diseases/disorders in the cattle surveyed was 14.46%, and that fasciolosis topped the list as the disease with the highest occurrence.
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