Comparison of ultrasonography, progesterone assay, ballottement, and non-return-to-heat with digital rectal palpation technique for early pregnancy diagnosis in Red Sokoto goat

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the digital rectal palpation (DRP) technique for early pregnancy diagnosis and to compare the results of experiments I and II in the Red Sokoto goat. Experiment I had 68 goats with 52 does and 16 bucks. Does were divided into prostaglandin F₂ -alpha (PGF₂ α; n = 18), progesterone pessaries (P₄ P; n = 18), and Control (n = 16) groups as oestrus synchronizaton methods. Bucks were used for oestrus detection (n = 6) and breeding (n = 10). Comparative pregnancy diagnosis was carried out on day 21 post-breeding using ultrasonography (US), DRP, progesterone assay (PA), ballottement (BL), and non-return-to-heat (NRH). Experiment II was a repeat but had 51 animals with 42 does and nine bucks; three bucks for oestrus detection and six for breeding. Does were divided into recto-vaginal artificial insemination (AI) by DRP (n = 14), vaginal speculum AI (n = 14), and Control-natural service (n = 14) groups, indicating breeding methods. Oestrus was synchronized with PGF₂ α and pregnancy diagnosis was carried out on day 21 using US, DRP, PA, and NRH. The results for both experiments were similar. Pregnancy rates for PGF₂ α group were 66.2%, 66.7%, 64.8%, 62.1%, and 63.0% for US, DRP, PA, BL, and NRH, respectively; P₄ P had 81.5%, 81.5%, 42.6%, 20.3%, and 42.6% for US, DRP, PA, BL, and NRH, respectively; while Control was 73.6%, 79.2%, 70.9%, 73.6%, and 73.6% for US, DRP, PA, BL, and NRH, respectively. Proportions are significantly (p < .000) different in the P₄ P group. It was concluded that the DRP technique was effective and consistent in early pregnancy diagnosis on day 21 and comparable to US, PA, BL, and non-return-to-oestrus in both experiments in Red Sokoto goat does.

Modulation of Memory and Neurochemical Changes by Resveratrol and Environmental Enrichment in Rodent Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia that affects one patient every seven seconds, with over 35 million people currently affected worldwide. The aim of the study was to investigate the modulation of memory and neurochemical responses by resveratrol and environmental enrichment (EE) in aluminium chloride (AlCl3) model of Alzheimer's disease in mice. Male mice used for the study were divided into nine groups, of seven animals each. Group I (negative control): 0.2 ml normal saline/kg, Group II: 0.2 ml CMC/kg. Group III: resveratrol (200 mg/kg/), Group IV: CMC and kept in EE, Group V: AlCl3 at dose of 50 mg/kg, Group VI: resveratrol at dose of 200 mg/kg and kept in EE, Group VII: AlCl3 (50 mg/kg) + resveratrol (200 mg/kg), Group VIII: AlCl3 (50 mg/kg) and kept in EE, Group IX: AlCl3 (50 mg/kg) + resveratrol (200 mg/kg) and kept in enriched environment. All treatments were oral and lasted for 8 weeks. Assessments of memory was carried out before treatment, and at weeks 4 and 8, after the first treatment. The mice were sacrificed and hippocampal samples collected for neurochemical analysis. The findings of the study suggest that AlCl3 induced contextual fear memory deficit over time (p < 0.05), which was improved by resveratrol. Both Aβ and Nrf2 significantly (p < 0.05) increased in AlCl3 + EE + resveratrol group. In conclusion, Individual treatment with either resveratrol or EE improved memory over the combined treatment in AlCl3 model of AD by decreasing Aβ protein concentration.

Effect of taurine and camel milk on amyloid beta peptide concentration and oxidative stress changes in aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease rats

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by brain accumulation of amyloid-beta peptide, and oxidative stress (Huang et al., 2016). The study evaluated effects of taurine and camel milk (CM) on amyloid-beta peptide and malondialdehyde concentrations and haemolysis in AlCl3-model of Alzheimer's disease in rats.

METHOD

Thirty-five female Wistar rats were divided into seven groups (n=5); Normal saline (0.2 mL/mg body weight); AlCl3 (100 mg/kg); CM (33 mL/kg) (Khatoon et al., 2016); Taurine (50 mg/kg) (Cetiner et al., 2005); AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + CM (33 mL/kg); AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Taurine (50 mg/kg) and AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + CM (33 mL/kg) + Taurine (50 mg/kg). The administration via oral gavage, lasted for eight weeks. Rats were sacrificed, brain (hippocampal) and blood samples were collected for determination of amyloid-beta peptide 1-42 (Aβ) and malondialdehyde concentrations and haemolysis changes.

RESULT

The concentration of Aβ peptide decreased (P < 0.05) in AD + CM (7.46 ± 0.31 ng/L) and AD + CM + Taurine (9.20 ± 0.43 ng/L), when compared to controls. Malonaldehyde concentration in AD + Taurine decreased (P < 0.05) and superoxide dismutase activity increased (P < 0.05) in AD + CM and AD + CM + Taurine groups compared to controls. At 0.5 % NaCl, percentage haemolysis in AD rats (45.50 ± 1.19 %) was lower (P < 0.05) than in AD + Tau (49.75 ± 3.25 %), AD + CM (51.50 ± 3.00 %) and AD + CM + Tau (52.00 ± 1.70 %) rats. The haemolysis at 0.4 % NaCl was lowest (P < 0.05) in AD (66.00 ± 2.12 %) rats, compared to AD + Tau (71.00 ± 4.40 %), AD + CM (74.25 ± 3.70 %) and AD + CM + Tau (73.50 ± 3.00 %) rats. Percentage haemolysis at 0.5% NaCl concentration increased (P < 0.05) in AD + CM (53.60 ± 2.96 %) and AD + CM + Taurine (51.20 ± 1.53 %) when compared to the controls.

CONCLUSION

Taurine and camel milk reduced the accumulation of Aβ peptide and ameliorated the oxidative stress damage by decreasing malondialdehyde concentrations and percentage haemolysis.

Taurine and Camel Milk Modulate Neurobehavioral and Biochemical Changes in Aluminum Chloride-Induced Alzheimer's Disease in Rats

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease associated with deficiency in motor coordination, cognitive impairment, and excessive reactive oxygen species production in the brain.

OBJECTIVE

The study evaluated effects of taurine and camel milk (CM) on neurobehavior, amyloid-beta peptide 1-42 (Aβ) expression, acetylcholinesterase, and superoxide dismutase activities in aluminum chloride (AlCl3) model of Alzheimer's disease in rats.

METHODS

Thirty-five female Wistar rats were divided into seven groups (n = 5): Normal saline (0.2 mL/kg body weight); AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) (AD); CM (33 mL/kg); Taurine (50 mg/kg); AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + CM (33 mL/kg); AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Taurine (50 mg/kg); and AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + CM (33 mL/kg) + Taurine (50 mg/kg). The administration lasted for eight weeks via oral gavage. After the eighth week, neurobehavior assessments were performed. Rats were sacrificed, and brain and blood samples collected for analysis.

RESULTS

There was a significant (p < 0.0001) increase in the duration of motor endurance in AD + CM rats, compared to AD rats. Duration of forced swimming time was lowest (p < 0.0001) in AlCl3 + Taurine rats, compared to that of AD rats. Concentration of Aβ peptide decreased (p < 0.05) in AD rats, treated with CM and/or combination. In taurine-treated rats, superoxide dismutase activity was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in AD rats. Treatment with taurine + CM increased (p < 0.05) acetylcholinesterase activity compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

Taurine and CM enhanced cognition and sensorimotor activity by decreasing Aβ peptide concentration and increasing superoxide dismutase and acetylcholinesterase activities in AD rats.

Diurnal rhythms of heart and respiratory rates in donkeys of different age groups during the cold-dry and hot-dry seasons in a tropical savannah

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of season on diurnal rhythms of heart (HR) and respiratory rates (RespR) in the adult, yearling, and foal donkeys during the cold-dry and hot-dry seasons under natural light/dark cycle. The resting HR and RespR were recorded bihourly for 24 consecutive hours from 06:00 to 06:00 h (GMT +1) in 30, clinically healthy donkeys (10 adults,10 yearlings, and 10 foals). Dry-bulb temperature (DBT), relative humidity (RH), temperature-humidity index (THI) and wet-bulb globe temperature index (WBGT) inside the pen were recorded bihourly from 06:00 to 06:00 h. Values of DBT, THI, and WBGT obtained during the hot-dry season were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than corresponding values recorded during the cold-dry season. Application of single-cosinor procedure showed that HR and RespR exhibited daily rhythmicity in both seasons. The mesors of the HR in adult (41.51 ± 0.34 beats/min [bpm]), yearling (40.80 ± 0.43 bpm), and foal (47.55 ± 0.40 bpm) donkeys during the cold-dry season were significantly (P < 0.01) lower, compared to the corresponding values of 48.4 ± 0.40 bpm, 50.42 ± 0.52 bpm and 58.10 ± 0.50 bpm, respectively during the hot-dry season. The mesors of RespR in adult, yearling, and foal donkeys during the hot-dry season were higher (P < 0.05), when compared to the corresponding values recorded in the cold-dry season. The HR and RespR of foals were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those of the adult and yearling donkeys. Amplitudes of HR and RespR were higher during the hot-dry season than the cold-dry season. In conclusion, seasonal changes affect diurnal rhythmicity of HR and RespR of adult, yearling, and foal donkeys during the cold-dry and hot-dry seasons. The HR and RespR of donkeys vary with age, with higher values in the foals than the adult and yearling donkeys in both seasons.

Resveratrol increases serum adiponectin level and decreases leptin and insulin level in an experimental model of hypercholesterolemia

Serum adiponectin concentration is inversely associated with leptin and insulin concentration. There is little paucity of information in the literature on the adipokine levels and regulation by resveratrol in cholesterol diet-fed animals. Thirty rabbits were randomly divided into six groups, each of five animals: Group 1 = control (C), Group 2 = cholesterol diet (CD) only, Group 3 = resveratrol 200 mg/kg (R200), Group 4 = resveratrol 400 mg/kg (R400), Group 5 = CD + R200, Group 6 = CD + R400. The preparations were administered for 8th weeks of the treatment protocol. weight and blood glucose level were measured on week zero and the 8th week of the treatment. At the end of the study period, the rabbits were placed under light anaesthesia. Blood samples were evaluated for serum concentrations of metabolites assays (adiponectin, leptin and insulin). Serum adiponectin significantly (P < 0.05) increased in resveratrol + CD groups, compared to CD group only. Leptin and insulin significantly (P <0.05) decreased in CD groups co-administered with resveratrol, compared with CD group only. In conclusion, the increase in adiponectin level and decrease in leptin and insulin level following resveratrol administration elucidated the therapeutic potential of resveratrol, despite cholesterol diet consumption.

Daily rhythms of cloacal temperature in broiler chickens of different age groups administered with zinc gluconate and probiotic during the hot-dry season

The aim of the experiment was to evaluate effects of zinc gluconate (ZnGlu) and probiotic administration on the daily rhythm of cloacal temperature (t_cloacal) in broiler chickens of different age groups during the hot-dry season. One-day-old broiler chicks (n = 60) were divided into groups I-IV of 15 chicks per group, and treated for 35 days: Group I (control) was given deionized water; Group II, ZnGlu (50 mg/kg); Group III, probiotic (4.125 × 10⁶ cfu/100 mL), and Group IV, ZnGlu (50 mg/kg) + probiotic (4.125 × 10⁶ cfu/100 mL). Air dry-bulb temperature (t_db), relative humidity (RH), and temperature-humidity index (THI) inside the pen, and t_cloacal of each broiler chick were obtained bihourly over a 24-h period; on days 21, 28, and 35 of the study. Values of t_db (32.10 ± 0.49°C), RH (49.94 ± 1.91%), and THI (38.85 ± 0.42) obtained were outside the thermoneutral zone for broiler chickens, and suggested that the birds were subjected to heat stress. Application of the periodic model showed disruption of daily rhythm of t_cloacal in broilers on day 21, which was synchronized by probiotic administration. The administration of probiotics or ZnGlu + probiotics to a greater extent decreased the mesor and amplitude, delayed the acrophases of t_cloacal in broilers, especially at day 35, as compared to the controls. Overall, the t_cloacal values in broiler chickens administered with probiotic alone (41.25 ± 0.05°C) and ZnGlu + probiotic (41.52 ± 0.05°C) were lower (P < 0.001) than that of the controls (41.94 ± 0.06°C). In conclusion, probiotic alone synchronized t_cloacal of the birds at day 21, and, in addition, decreased t_cloacal response most, followed by its coadministration with ZnGlu, the antioxidants may be beneficial in modulating daily rhythmicity of t_cloacal and alleviating adverse effects of heat stress on broiler chickens during the hot-dry season.

Behavioral and hematological responses of broiler chickens administered with betaine and ascorbic acid during hot-dry season

Heat stress is a major problem in poultry production in tropical regions. Assessing the impact of thermally stressful environmental conditions on the welfare of broiler chickens is of great importance. Behavioral responses in a novel environment and hematology of broiler chickens administered with betaine and/or ascorbic acid (AA) during the hot-dry season were evaluated. Broiler chickens were randomly divided into four groups: Group I (control) was given sterile water, Group II was given betaine, Group III was given AA, and Group IV received betaine + AA orally and daily for 42 days. An open-field test was used to assess behavior. Hematological parameters were obtained using a hematology auto-analyzer. The natural environmental conditions were predominantly outside the thermoneutral zone for broiler chickens. Results demonstrated that treated groups exhibited improved ability to adjust faster to a new environment and better hematological responses than controls, evidenced by enhanced behavioral responses, oxygen-carrying capacity, and immune responses of broiler chickens under unfavorable environmental conditions. Betaine and/or AA administration to broiler chickens improved some behavioral responses, hemoglobin concentrations, packed cell volume, and total leukocyte count during the hot-dry season.

Association between Adiponectin, Serum Lipids and Obesity in a University Setting in Nigeria

Obesity is an energy imbalance condition, which is accompanied by metabolic and cardiovascular complications.Adiponectin, produced by adipocytes, is an important adipokine involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Adiponectinlevel is altered in obesity in various populations. In Nigeria, very few studies regarding adiponectin exist, and none, to thebest of our knowledge, investigated the relationship between adiponectin and lipid profile and obesity. Therefore, this studyaims to evaluate changes in adiponectin level and serum lipids with body mass index, and investigate the relationship betweenadiponectin, serum lipids and obesity in Nigerian adults. Anthropometric parameters and blood pressure were measured, and blood samples were collected for biochemical assessment after 12 hours fasting, in a total of 280 subjects, comprising of 186males and 94 females. Serum adiponectin level was evaluated by ELISA, while serum lipid profile was determined byenzymatic endpoint method. Quantitative data were analyzed for significant difference using ANOVA, and Pearson'scorrelation was used to evaluate relationships. Serum adiponectin level was significantly (P ˂ 0.05) highest within overweightmale subjects (1.6 ± 0.06 µg/ml), and lowest within normal male subjects (1.4 ± 0.03 µg/ml). The values for adiponectin concentrations were not significantly different in the female subjects. There was no association in serum lipids andadiponectin in both male (r = -0.035, P >0.05; r = -0.011, P >0.05; r = -0.053, P >0.05; r = -0.084, P >0.05) and female (r=0.061, P >0.05; r = 0.018, P>0.05; r = 0.057, P>0.05; r = -0.021, P >0.05) for LDL, HDL, TC and TRIG respectively. Lipidprofile was not different across BMI classes. There was no relationship between adiponectin and serum lipids in individualsin the study population of adult Nigerians.

Severe hypothermia in transported pullets: case study of its occurrence, diagnosis and treatment using active external rewarming technique

Sixty pullets, aged 17 weeks, were presented when presumed to be 'dead' after being exposed to wet-cold weather transportation. The birds appeared unconscious and their feathers were soaking wet, and with a body rigid and cold to touch. The aim of the study was to resuscitate the hypothermic pullets. Blood samples were obtained and core body temperature recorded before and after rewarming. The birds were resuscitated using active external rewarming technique. Blood samples revealed significant (P < 0.05) decreases in the concentrations of serum electrolytes of Na, Cl, K, Ca and P; and renal function and activities of the serum enzymes of AST, ALT, ALP and CRT decreased compared to baseline reference normal values. Colonic temperature, recorded through the cloacae, revealed a temperature of 29 ± 0.4°C. The presumptive diagnosis was severe hypothermia. Treatment of the pullets using active external rewarming technique for 7 to 10 h resulted in successful restoration of all the behavioural, biochemical and colonic temperature responses to normal values. The treatment resulted in a complete recovery of all the birds with no signs of illness at 4-week follow-up. To the best of our knowledge, this study is one of the first reports to evaluate the behavioural and biochemical responses of pullets accidentally exposed to severe hypothermia, and successful treatment of the birds using active external rewarming technique.

Effect of Insulin on Visuo-Spatial Memory and Histology of Cerebral Cortex in the Presence or Absence of Nitric Oxide Inhibition

Insulin has emerged from its traditional 'peripheral' glucose-lowering function to become increasingly regarded as a brain hormone that controls a wide range of functions including learning and memory. Insulin action on learning and memory is linked to nitric oxide (NO) signalling, but its effects on memory and histology of cerebral cortex in conditions of varied NO availability is unclear. This research sought to determine the effect of insulin on visuo-spatial learning, memory and histology of cerebral cortex during NO deficiency. Twenty-four mice weighing 21-23 g, were divided into four groups (n = 6) and treated daily for seven days with 0.2 ml distilled water subcutaneously (s.c.) (control), 10 I.U/kg insulin s.c., 10 I.U/kg insulin + 50 mg/kg L-NAME intraperitoneally (i.p.), and 50 mg/kg i.p. L-NAME s.c., respectively. The 3-day MWM paradigm was used to assess memory. Brain tissue was examined for histological changes. There was no significant difference between day 1 and day 2 latencies for all the groups. The mice in all (but L-NAME) groups spent more time in the target quadrant, and the difference was significant within but not between groups. There was significant reduction in number of platform site crossings (4.83 ± 0.5, 0.67 ± 0.3, 0.50 ± 0.3 and 0.50 ± 0.3 for control, insulin, insulin+L-NAME and L-NAME groups, respectively) in all the groups compared to control. Normal histology of the cortex and absence of histological lesions were observed in brain slides of control and treatment groups. It was concluded that insulin administration impairs visuo-spatial memory to a greater extent in the presence of NO block, and to a lesser extent in the absence of NO block. Nitric oxide has a role in insulin-induced memory impairment. Insulin administration in the presence or absence of NO block had no effect on histology of cortex.

Effects of Selenium Yeast on Blood Glucose and Antioxidant Biomarkers in Cholesterol Fed Diet Induced Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Wistar Rats

Selenium is an antioxidant that prevents oxygen radical from damaging cells from chronic diseases that can develop from cell injury and inflammation such as diabetes mellitus. The aim of the study is to investigate the possible protective effect of selenium yeast on cholesterol diet induced type-2 diabetes mellitus and oxidative stress in rats. Twenty male wistar rats were divided in to four groups of five animals each: Group 1: (Negative control) received standard animal feed only, Group 2:  received cholesterol diet (CD) only, Group 3: received CD and 0.1 mg/kg selenium yeast orally, Group 4: Received CD and 0.2 mg/kg selenium yeast orally for six weeks. At the end of the study period, the animals were sacrificed and the serum samples were collected and evaluated for estimation of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). The results showed a significant decrease in blood glucose level in the groups  co-administered CD and selenium yeast when compared to CD group only. Antioxidant enzymes status recorded significant decrease in SOD, CAT and GPx activities in CD and selenium yeast administered when compared to CD group only. In Conclusion, Selenium yeast administrations prevent free radical formations which are potent inducer of diabetes mellitus.

Resveratrol Protects Rabbits Against Cholesterol Diet-Induced Hyperlipidaemia

The excessive consumption of high cholesterol diet has been associated with an increased incidence oflipidaemia. Lipidaemia is enhanced by formation of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and hyperglycaemia. The aim ofthese experiments was to investigate the protective effect of resveratrol co-administered with cholesterol diet inducedhyperlipidaemia in rabbits. Thirty rabbits divided into six groups of five animal (group= 5) each: group 1 = normal control,group 2 = cholesterol diet/high fat diet group only (HFD), group 3 = resveratrol 200 mg/kg (R200), group 4 = resveratrol400 mg/kg (R400), group 5 = HFD + R200 and group 6 = HFD + R400. The normal group was fed with standard animalfeeds only; while the HFD groups were fed with standard animal feeds + cholesterol diet (10% Groundnut oil, 20%Groundnut mill and 2% cholesterol). Resveratrol-treated rabbits received resveratrol suspended in 10 g/Lcarboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and the control group received the vehicle only, CMC. The preparations were administeredfor 8 weeks of experimental protocol. At the end of the study period, the animals were sacrificed. Blood and plasma sampleswere collected. Serum evaluation of lipid profile such as total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (Tg), low density lipoproteincholesterol (LDP-c) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) were also assessed. The results obtained showsignificant (P < 0.05) decrease in total cholesterol (TC), Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDP-c), total triacylglyceroland an increase in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) in resveratrol treated groups compared to HFD group only.In conclusion, the findings indicated that Resveratrol may contain polar products able to lower plasma lipid concentrationsand might be beneficial in treatment of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis.

Melatonin modulates tonic immobility and vigilance behavioural responses of broiler chickens to lighting regimens during the hot-dry season

Experiments were conducted with the aim of determining the influence of melatonin administration on vigilance and tonic immobility (TI) responses of Marshall broiler chickens. The broiler chickens were reared on different lighting regimens and subjected to heat stress during the hot-dry season. Simple random sampling was used to assign 300 broiler chicks into three groups, comprising 100 broiler chicks each. Group I (12D:12L cycle) was raised under natural photoperiod of 12-h light and 12-h darkness, without melatonin supplementation. Group II (CL) was kept under 24-h continuous lighting, without melatonin administration. Group III (CL+MEL) was raised under 24-h continuous lighting; with melatonin supplementation at 0.5mg/kg per os, via drinking water using a syringe. Beginning from day-old, broiler chickens in group III were individually administered with melatonin once daily for 8weeks at 17:00h. TI was induced by manual restraint, and vigilance elicited at self-righting graded for three days, two weeks apart, in 15 labeled broiler chickens from each of the three groups; at 06:00h, 13:00h and 18:00h, starting from week 4-8. Each broiler chicken was laid on its back in a U-shaped cradle, covered with cloth. Thermal microenvironment parameters of dry bulb temperature (DBT) and relative humidity (RH) were recorded at the experimental site, concurrently during the vigilance and TI tests. Inside the broiler chickens' house, the weekly temperature-humidity index (THI) was lowest at week 4 of the study, with the value of 48.60±0.08°C. At week 4, the relationship between the THI and TI induction attempts was stronger in 12D:12L cycle (r=0.589, P<0.001) than CL (r=0.264, P>0.05) or CL+MEL (r=0.096, P>0.05) broiler chickens. This indicated that the broiler chickens on 12D:12L cycle were more active compared to their melatonin-treated counterparts, apparently due to adverse effects of high DBT and high RH on the broiler chickens during the hot-dry season. The highest numbers of TI induction trial attempts were recorded at 13:00h in 12D:12L cycle and CL groups (2.13±0.34 and 2.15±0.22, respectively), when the broiler chickens were at week 8. The overall mean values of induction trial attempts differed significantly (P<0.0001) between the groups; with the lowest mean values of 1.22±0.4 recorded in CL+MEL broiler chickens. At day 42, the lowest mean TI duration of 101.87±10.24s in the CL group, recorded at 06:00h rose (P<0.001) to 184.07±23.69s at 13:00h. The overall mean duration of TI differed significantly (P<0.0001) again between the groups; with the highest mean duration of 167.82±8.35s, recorded in CL+MEL broiler chickens administered with melatonin. The overall mean vigilance behavioural ranking values of 1.85+0.07 and 1.70+0.08, obtained in 12D:12L cycle and CL broiler chickens, respectively were higher (P<0.0001) than the value of 1.44+0.05 recorded in melatonin-treated broiler chickens. The results indicated that broiler chickens belonging to both 12D:12L cycle and CL groups were more emotional, fearful or anxious, compared to CL+MEL broiler chickens. It was concluded that melatonin administration elicits boldness and confidence by suppressing freezing behaviour in broiler chickens, and it may improve their welfare and productivity.

The protective role of alpha-lipoic acid on long-term exposure of rats to the combination of chlorpyrifos and deltamethrin pesticides

The study was aimed at evaluating the protective role of α-lipoic acid (ALA) on long-term exposure of rats to the combination of chlorpyrifos (CPF) and deltamethrin (DLT). Forty-two (42) male Wistar rats were divided into 6 exposure groups with 7 animals in each group: (I) soya oil (2 ml kg−1), (II) ALA (60 mg kg−1), (III) DLT (6.25 mg kg−1), (IV) CPF (4.75 mg kg−1), (V) (CPF + DLT) DLT (6.25 mg kg−1) and CPF (4.75 mg kg−1; 1/20th of the previously determined median lethal dose) and (VI) (ALA + CPF + DLT) pretreated with ALA (60 mg kg−1) and then co-exposed to CPF and DLT, 45 min later. The regimens were administered by gavage once daily for a period of 16 weeks. Sera obtained from blood collected at the end of the experimental period were used for the evaluation of serum glucose, total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine and the activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and acetylcholinesterase. The liver homogenate was used to assay for the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase and the concentrations of malondialdehyde, cytokine and tumour necrotic factor α. The result showed that the combination of CPF and DLT resulted in marked alterations of these biochemical parameters in most cases compared to either of the pesticides singly, supplementation with ALA ameliorated these alterations.

Amelioration of Hyperglycaemia, Oxidative Stress and Dyslipidaemia in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats Treated with Probiotic and Vitamin C

Clinical and experimental evidence suggests that hyperglycaemia is responsible for the oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus. The study was designed to investigate the comparative effects of probiotic and vitamin C (Vit-C) treatments on hyperglycaemia, oxidative stress and dyslipidaemia in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) was induced in male Wistar rats by a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg). Six groups of the animals received the following treatment regimens for four weeks: (1) Normal saline, per os; (2) alloxan (150 mg/kg, i.p.); (3) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + insulin (4 U/kg, subcutaneously); (4) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + probiotic (4.125 × 10⁶ CFU/100 mL per os); (5) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + Vit-C (100 mg/kg, i.m.); (6) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + probiotic (4.125 × 10⁶ CFU/100 mL per os) + Vit-C (100 mg/kg, intramuscularly). Probiotic + Vit-C decreased (p < 0.05) blood glucose concentration in diabetic treated group, when compared with the untreated diabetic group. Probiotic + Vit-C reduced malondialdehyde concentration, in the serum, brain and kidneys, respectively, but increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Probiotic and Vit-C may be more effective than Vit-C alone, in ameliorating hyperglycaemia, oxidative stress and dyslipidaemia in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Effects of a joint supplement whose main components are resveratrol and hyaluronic acid on some biochemical parameters in aged lame horses

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a supplement that contains resveratrol and hyaluronic acid (RH supplement) in aged lame horses. A total of 16 horses of both sexes, aged between 15 and 22 years, weighing between 350-450 kg and showing lameness due to arthritis of the knee, hock, stifle, and fetlock joints and stiffness owing to ageing were used for the study. They comprised eight horses that were administered the RH supplement for three weeks and eight others that served as controls and were given only a Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast strain used as carrier in the supplement. Blood samples were collected from each horse before supplementation (week 0) and at weekly intervals for the three weeks of the experiment. Biochemical parameters including creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, urea, glucose, total cholesterol, sodium, potassium, chloride, and calcium were measured by standard methods. There was a significant (P˂0.05) reduction in values of creatine kinase and glucose in the horses administered the RH supplement. It was concluded that the RH supplement may reduce the level of these biochemical parameters and their deleterious effects especially during ageing in horses.

Diurnal, seasonal, and sex patterns of heart rate in grip-restrained African giant rats (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse)

This study was carried out to determine heart rate (HR) values, including diurnal, seasonal, and sex patterns, in the African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse). HR was measured using stethoscope in grip-restrained African giant rats of either sex (103 bucks and 98 does), live-trapped from a tropical Savannah, and caged individually in the laboratory during the harmattan (cold-dry), hot-dry, and rainy seasons over a 3-year period. The HR fluctuated between 90 and 210 beats per minute (bpm) throughout the study period. Diurnal changes in HR (mean ± SEM) during the hot-dry and rainy seasons were nonsignificant (P > 0.05), but the morning and afternoon values differed (P < 0.01) during the cold-dry season. The HR varied (P < 0.05) among seasons, with peak, nadir, and moderate values recorded during the cold-dry (165.8 ± 0.51 bpm), hot-dry (153.1 ± 0.74 bpm), and rainy (163.4 ± 0.70 bpm) seasons, respectively. Mean HR of bucks was lower than that of does during the cold-dry (P < 0.0001) and hot-dry (P < 0.01) seasons, but sex difference during the rainy season was insignificant (P > 0.05). Overall, mean HR was lower (P < 0.0001) in bucks (158.8 ± 0.53 bpm) than in does (164.8 ± 0.53 bpm). In conclusion, values of HR in African giant rats are shown for the first time. Season, sex, and daytime influenced the HR, and should be considered during clinical evaluations of the rats.

BIOASSAY-GUIDED FRACTIONATION AND ANTIHYPERTENSIVE PROPERTIES OF FRACTIONS AND CRUDE EXTRACTS OF PERISTROPHE BICALYCULATA (RETZ) NEES

Hypertension is an important public health issue in both developed and developing countries due to its high incidence and morbidity. This has motivated researchers especially in developing countries to search for strategies for the treatment using different plant parts. The use of the aqueous decoction of the leaves of Peristiophe bicalyculata in the treatment of hypertension has been documented. This study was designed to carry out a bioassay-guided isolation of the antihypertensive components of the leaves of Peristrophe bicalyculata in L-NAME hypertensive rats, determine the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity of the extracts and fractions obtained and identify the constituent(s) present. From our results, L-NAME hypertensive rats given the cold water extract had significantly (p < 0.05) lower mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) with longer duration of action than other extracts. Also, the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity of the cold water extract was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than that of other extracts. From the GC-MS analysis of the most effective fraction (fraction 4), P,P,P-triphenyl-imino(triphenyl)phosphorane and andrographolide 2(3H)-furanone were identified among others. The present work demonstrates the hypotensive effect of the cold water extract of Peiistiophe bicalyculata on L-NAME hypertensive rats, which further justifies the folkloric application of extracts of the plant in the management as well as treatment of hypertension.

Ameliorative effects of melatonin administration and photoperiods on diurnal fluctuations in cloacal temperature of Marshall broiler chickens during the hot dry season

Experiments were performed with the aim of determining the effect of melatonin administration on diurnal fluctuations in cloacal temperature (CT) of Marshall broiler chickens during the hot dry season. Birds in group I (12L:12D cycle) were raised under natural photoperiod of 12-h light and 12-h darkness, without melatonin supplementation, while those in group II (LL) were kept under 24-h continuous lighting, without melatonin administration. Broiler chickens in group III (LL + melatonin) were raised under 24-h continuous lighting, with melatonin supplementation at 0.5 mg/kg per os. The cloacal temperatures of 15 labeled broiler chickens from each group were measured at 6:00, 13:00, and 19:00 h, 7 days apart, from days 14-42. Temperature-humidity index was highest at day 14 of the study, with the value of 36.72 ± 0.82 °C but lowest at day 28 with the value of 30.91 ± 0.80 °C (P < 0.0001). The overall mean hourly cloacal temperature value of 41.51 ± 0.03 °C obtained in the 12L:12D cycle birds was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than the value of 41.16 ± 0.03 °C recorded in the melatonin-treated group but lower than that of 41.65 ± 0.03 °C obtained in the LL birds. Mortality due to hyperthermia commenced at day 28 in both 12L:12D cycle and LL broiler chickens but was delayed till day 42 in LL + MEL broiler chickens. In conclusion, melatonin administration alleviated the deleterious effects of heat stress on broiler chickens by maintaining their cloacal temperature at relatively low values.

Co-treatment of chlorpyrifos and lead induce serum lipid disorders in rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of taurine (TA) on serum lipid profiles following chronic coadministration of chlorpyrifos (CP) and lead acetate (Pb) in male Wistar rats. Fifty rats randomly distributed into five groups served as subjects. Distilled water (DW) was given to DW group, while soya oil (SO; 1 mL kg−1) was given to SO group. The TA group was treated with TA (50 mg kg−1). The CP + Pb group was administered sequentially with CP (4.25 mg kg−1; 1/20th median lethal dose (LD50)) and Pb at 233.25 mg kg−1 (1/20th LD50), while the TA + CP + Pb group received TA (50 mg kg−1), CP (4.25 mg kg−1), and Pb (233.25 mg kg−1) sequentially. The treatments were administered once daily by oral gavage for 16 weeks. The rats were euthanised, and the blood samples were collected at the termination of the study. Sera obtained from the blood samples were analyzed for total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and malondialdehyde, and also the activities of serum antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase were analyzed. The low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and atherogenic index were calculated. The results showed that CP and Pb induced alterations in the serum lipid profiles and evoked oxidative stress. TA alleviated the disruptions in the serum lipid profiles of the rats partially by mitigating oxidative stress. It was concluded that TA may be used for prophylaxis against serum lipid disorders in animals that were constantly co-exposed to CP and Pb in the environment.

Diurnal and seasonal fluctuations in rectal temperature, respiration and heart rate of pack donkeys in a tropical savannah zone

The study was designed to determine diurnal and seasonal changes in basic physiologic responses of donkeys adapted to the tropical Savannah. The rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR) and heart rate (HR) of six male Nubian pack donkeys, and the dry-bulb temperature (DBT), relative humidity and heat index of the experimental site were concurrently recorded hourly, from 06:00 h to 18:00 h (GMT +1), for three days, spread 1 week apart, during the cold-dry (harmattan), hot-dry and humid (rainy) seasons, in an open grazing field. Values of the physiologic parameters recorded during the morning (06:00 h–11:00 h) were lower (P<0.001) than those obtained in the afternoon (12:00 h–15:00 h) and evening (16:00 h–18:00 h) hours in all seasons, but the robustness of the diurnal rhythm differed (P<0.05) between seasons. Many diurnal hourly DBT mean values recorded during the harmattan and hot-dry seasons fell outside the established thermoneutral zone for tropically-adapted donkeys, while those obtained during the rainy season were within the zone, indicating that the dry seasons were more thermally stressful to the donkeys than the humid season. Overall mean RT dropped (P<0.05) during the harmattan season. The RR rose, while HR dropped (P<0.001) during the hot-dry season. In conclusion, daytime and season had profound influence on RT, RR and HR of the donkeys, therefore, diurnal and seasonal variations should be taken into account during clinical evaluation before reaching conclusion on health status and fitness for work in donkeys.

Taurine mitigates cognitive impairment induced by chronic co-exposure of male Wistar rats to chlorpyrifos and lead acetate

Organophosphate pesticides and heavy metals are ubiquitous environmental pollutants and neurotoxicants. We investigated the effects of taurine (an antioxidant; TA) on oxidative stress and cognition in male Wistar rats co-treated with chlorpyrifos (an organophosphate pesticide; CPF) and lead acetate (heavy metal; LA). The Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups of 10 rats each. The first two groups were administered with distilled water and soya oil respectively. The remaining three groups were administered with taurine (TA), 50 mg/kg body weight, CPF+LA group [CPF (4.25 mg/kg, 1/20 LD₅₀] and LA (233.25 mg/kg, 1/20 LD₅₀) and TA+CPF+LA group [TA (50 mg/kg), CPF (4.25 mg/kg) and LA (233.25 mg/kg)]. The xenobiotics were administered once daily by oral gavage for 16 weeks. The results showed reductions in the activities of brain antioxidant enzymes and acetylcholinesterase, increased lipoperoxidation and histopathological alterations of the cerebral cortex in the CPF+LA group. However, TA mitigated perturbations in the activities of the antioxidant enzymes and acetylcholinesterase, counteracted oxidative stress and brain lipoperoxidation and attenuated neuronal degeneration induced by joint CPF and LA-induced neurotoxicity. The results suggested that TA is neuroprotective following chronic co-exposure of rats to CPF and LA.

Flavonoid mixture ameliorates increase in erythrocyte osmotic fragility and malondialdehyde concentration induced by Trypanosoma brucei brucei-infection in Wistar rats

The experiment was performed with the aim of investigating the effect of a flavonoid mixture, Daflon® 500 mg (DF) on the erythrocyte fragility and lipoperoxidative changes, induced by Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in Wistar rats. Fifty adult male rats randomly divided into five groups of 10 animals each were used. Rats in the control group were administered (1 mL/kg) distilled water only, while the other groups were infected with T. brucei brucei and treated with Daflon® 500 mg and/or Diminazene aceturate. At the end of 5 weeks, EDTA-blood samples and serum samples were collected from the rats, and were used to determine erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration respectively. The results showed that EOF and MDA concentration significantly (P<0.05) increased in the infected untreated group when compared to the treatment groups. Treatment with Daflon® 500 mg and Diminazene aceturate significantly (P<0.05) reduced trypanosome-induced increases in EOF and lipoperoxidative changes, suggesting possible antioxidant properties of Daflon® 500 mg and its therapeutic value in trypanosomosis.

Alleviating effects of melatonin on oxidative changes in the testes and pituitary glands evoked by subacute chlorpyrifos administration in Wistar rats

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the alleviating effects of melatonin on oxidative changes in the testes and pituitary gland induced by subacute chlopyrifos (CPF) exposure in rats.

METHODS

Forty adult male Wistar rats divided into 4 groups of 10 animals were used for the study. Group I received soya oil (2 mL/kg) while group II was administered with melatonin (0.5 mg/kg). Group III was administered CPF only (8.5 mg/kg ∼ 1/10th of the LD50) while group IV was pretreated with melatonin (0.5 mg/kg) and then exposed to CPF (8.5 mg/kg), 10 min later. The regimens were administered by gavage once daily for a period of 28 d. At the end of the exposure period, the rats were sacrificed and the testicular tissues and pituitary glands were evaluated for the malonaldehyde (MDA) concentration and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT).

RESULTS

CPF increased MDA concentrations and reduced the activities of SOD and CAT in the testes and pituitary gland. Melatonin pretreatment reduced the testicular and pituitary MDA concentrations and improves the SOD and CAT activities.

CONCLUSIONS

the study showed that subacute CPF-induced oxidative stress in the testes and pituitary glands were alleviated by melatonin due to its antioxidant property.

Vitamin C Attenuates Chronic Chlorpyrifos-induced Alteration of Neurobehavioral Parameters in Wistar Rats

Background:

Oxidative stress is one of the molecular mechanisms in chlorpyrifos toxicity. The present study was designed to evaluate the attenuating effect of vitamin C on chlorpyrifos-induced alteration of neurobehavioral performance and the role of muscle acetylchloinesterase (AChE), glycogen and lipoperoxidation in the accomplishment of this task.

Materials and Methods:

Male rats were randomly assigned into 4 groups with the following regimens: soya oil (S/oil), vitamin C (VC), chlorpyrifos (CPF) and vitamin C+CPF (VC+CPF). The regimens were administered by gavage once daily for a period of 17 weeks. Neurobehavioral parameters measuring efficiency of locomotion, motor strength, righting reflex and excitability were evaluated at day 0 (pretreatment value), weeks 8 and 16. The rats were sacrificed at week 17 and evaluated for muscle glycogen and malonaldehyde (MDA) concentrations and AChE activity.

Results:

The result showed that deficits in locomotion efficiency, motor strength, righting reflex and excitability score induced by chronic CPF were mitigated but not completely abolished by vitamin C. The reduced muscle AChE activity and concentrations of glycogen and MDA evoked by chronic CPF were ameliorated by vitamin C.

Conclusion:

The study therefore showed that improvement in muscle AChE activity, glycogen concentration and reduced lipoperoxidation by vitamin C may be partly responsible for the mitigation of the chronic CPF-induced sensorimotor performance.

Seasonal, sex and live weight variations in feed and water consumptions of adult captive African Giant rats (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse-1840) kept individually in cages

Adult African Giant rats (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse) (AGRs) (n = 231) of both sexes (117 bucks, 114 does) were live-trapped in the wild in Zaria, Nigeria. Live weight (LW), daily feed consumption (FC) and water consumption (WC) of the AGRs were measured during the cold-dry (CDS), hot-dry (HDS) and rainy (RS) seasons for 2 years with the aim of determining seasonal, sex and LW variations. Feed consumption was significantly different (p < 0.001) between all the seasons, with the lowest mean value recorded during the HDS, while the highest was obtained during the RS. Water consumption was also lowest (p < 0.001) during the HDS but did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) between the CDS and RS. Both feed and water consumptions were higher (p < 0.01) in the males (bucks) than the females (does) during the CDS and HDS, but the sex difference was not significant (p > 0.05) during the RS. Feed consumption correlated positively (p < 0.0001) with WC and relative humidity, but negatively (p < 0.0001) with LW, ambient temperature and heat index. In conclusion, both feed and water consumptions in AGRs decrease with increased seasonal heat and adult LW and are lower in does than in bucks during the dry seasons (CDS and HDS). Intervention may be indicated during the HDS to improve feed and water consumptions for optimal performance of the AGRs.

Assessment of thermal load on transported goats administered with ascorbic acid during the hot-dry conditions

The major factor in the induction of physiological stress during road transportation of livestock is the complex fluctuations of the thermal transport microenvironment, encountered when animals are transported across different ecological zones. Recommended guidelines on optimum "on-board" conditions in which goats should be transported are lacking, and there are no acceptable ranges and limits for the thermal loads to which goats may be subjected during long-distance road transportation in hot-dry conditions. Panting score (PS), rectal temperature (RT), heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR) were employed as reliable stress indices to assess the effects of different thermal loads, measured as temperature humidity index (THI), encountered in the vehicle during 12 h of road transportation of 40 goats, and to suggest the administration of 100 mg/kg body weight of ascorbic acid (AA) as an ameliorating agent. The results obtained showed that the PS, RT, HR and RR rose above normal reference values with increase in the THI and journey duration. The rise in PS value, which is a visual indicator of the severity of thermal load, was the most pronounced. The results suggest that values of THI in the vehicle up to 94.6 constitute no risk, while at of 100 it presents a moderate risk and above 100 may result in severe stress. The relationships between the thermal load and the physiological variables were positive and significant (P < 0.05). They reflect the degree of stress imposed by each THI value during the transportation, and may be used as recommended ranges and limit thermal load values in transported goats. The results demonstrated that administration of 100 mg/kg body weight of AA before road transportation mitigated the risk of adverse effects of high THI values and other stress factors due to road transportation in goats.

Effect of packing on changes in erythrocyte osmotic fragility and malondialdehyde concentration in donkeys administered with ascorbic acid

Experiments were performed with the aim of investigating the effect of packing on erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in donkeys, and the effect of ascorbic acid (AA). Twelve apparently healthy donkeys raised under the traditional extensive system served as experimental subjects. Six donkeys administered orally with AA (200 mg/kg) and subjected to packing were used as experimental animals, whilst six others not administered with AA served as controls. Blood samples were collected pre- and post-packing from all the donkeys for the determination of MDA and EOF. At 0.3% Sodium Chloride (NaCl) concentration, the percentage haemolysis was 93.69% ± 2.21% in the control donkeys and the value was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the value of 71.31% ± 8.33%, recorded in the experimental donkeys. The post-packing MDA concentration obtained in the control donkeys was 39.62 µmol ± 4.16 µmol, and was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from the value of 35.97 µmol ± 2.88 µmol recorded in the experimental donkeys. In conclusion, the increase in haemolysis obtained in the donkeys suggested that packing induced oxidative stress, which was ameliorated by AA administration.

Variations in haematological parameters and erythrocyte osmotic fragility of pigs during hot-dry and harmattan season in Northern Guinea Savanna zone of Nigeria

Experiments were performed with the aim of investigating the effect of season on haematological parameters and erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) of pigs. A total of 23 local pigs including males, non-pregnant and non-nursing females, aged 9 to 12 months were used for the study, ten animals were used during the hot-dry season and thirteen during the harmattan season. Blood sample was taken from each animal for the determination of EOF and other haematological parameters as well as total protein. The PCV value of 39.7±1.9 % obtained during the hot-dry season was significantly higher than 32.00 ± 0.9 % obtained during the harmattan season. Total leucocyte count of 18,836.5±1727.1 obtained during the harmattan season was higher than the value 15,920.00±1119.1 recorded during the hot-dry season. The neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio value was significantly higher during the harmattan season, with a value of 0.61±0.0 than the recorded value of 0.43±0.0 during the hot-dry season. The percentage haemolysis values obtained during the harmattan season at NaCl concentration of 0.5-0.9 % with a value of 92.03±0.02 % respectively were significantly higher than those recorded during the hot-dry season. In conclusion, the haematological values showed that harmattan season was more stressful to pigs than the hot-dry season in the Northern Guinea Savanna zone of Nigeria.

Modulatory role of ascorbic acid on behavioural responses of pigs transported by road during the harmattan season

Experiments were performed on adult local pigs with the aim of investigating the modulatory role of ascorbic acid (AA) on their behavioural responses to 4-h, road transportation during the harmattan season. Sixteen adult pigs administered with AA at the dose of 250 mg/kg dissolve in sterile water served as experimental animals, and 13 others administered with sterile water were used as control animals. All the pigs were transported for 4-h at speed of 40-50 km/h covering a distance of 140 km. The behavioural activities were determined before and after road transportation. The behavioural activities were higher (P<0.05) in the experimental than control pigs immediately after transportation. In conclusion, AA ameliorates behavioural stress induced by road transportation of pigs for 4 h and may be of value in reducing adverse effects of road transportation in pigs.

Effects of heat stress on the well-being, fertility, and hatchability of chickens in the northern Guinea savannah zone of Nigeria: a review

The paper examines heat stress and its adverse effects as a hindrance to profitable poultry production in the tropics, with emphasis on the Northern Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria. It elucidates the general negative effects of heat stress on physiological parameters of domestic chickens, and the specific impact of the stress on reproduction in the tropics. The deleterious effects are expressed in poor poultry well-being and reproductive performance. It is concluded that measures aimed at alleviating heat stress in domestic chickens must be adopted in order to enhance reproductive and, consequently, efficiency of modern poultry production in the tropics.

Hemotoxicity induced by chronic chlorpyrifos exposure in wistar rats: mitigating effect of vitamin C

The study evaluated the ameliorative effect of vitamin C on chronic chlorpyrifos-induced hematological alterations in Wistar rats. Twenty adult male rats divided into 4 groups of 5 animals each were exposed to the following regimens: group I (S/oil) was administered soya oil (2 mL/kg b.w.), while group II (VC) was given vitamin C (100 mg/kg b.w.); group III was dosed with CPF (10.6 mg/kg b.w.); group IV was pretreated with vitamin C (100 mg/kg) and then exposed to CPF (10.6 mg/kg b.w.), 30 minutes later. The regimens were administered by oral gavage once daily for a period of 17 weeks. Blood samples collected at the end of the study revealed reduction in the levels of pack cell volume, hemoglobin, red blood cells, leukocytes (attributed to neutropenia, lymphopenia, and monocytopenia), and platelets in the CPF group, which were ameliorated in the vitamin C- pretreated group. The elevated values of malonaldehyde, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in the CPF group were restored in those pretreated with vitamin C. The study has shown that chronic CPF-induced adversity on hematological parameters of Wistar rats was mitigated by pretreatment with vitamin C.

Responses of serum electrolytes of goats to twelve hours of road transportation during the hot-dry season in Nigeria, and the effect of pretreatment with ascorbic acid

Twenty goats which served as the experimental group were administered ascorbic acid (AA) per os at a dosage rate of 100 mg/kg body mass, while 20 others served as controls and were given 10 ml each of sterile water. Forty minutes after the administration and loading, the goats were transported for 12 h. Handling and loading of the experimental and control groups of goats decreased (P < 0.05) the potassium and sodium serum concentrations. The concentration of serum chloride, sodium and calcium increased significantly (P < 0.05) immediately post-transportation, while potassium and magnesium decreased (P < 0.05) in the control goats. In AA-treated goats sodium and magnesium concentrations decreased abruptly (P < 0.05), while calcium increased significantly (P < 0.05) after transportation. Handling, loading and transportation adversely affected the electrolyte balance of the goats which suggested respiratory alkalosis, dehydration and muscular damage in the transported goats, and the administration of AA alleviated the adverse effects of road transportation stress on serum electrolytes.

Modulating Role of Vitamins C and E against Transport-Induced Stress in Pullets during the Hot-Dry Conditions

The modulating effects of ascorbic acid (AA), vitamin E (E), and a combination of AA and E (AA + E) against eight-hour road transportation stress were investigated in 120 pullets during the hot-dry season. The result obtained showed that handling, loading and transportation induced lymphopenia, neutrophilia, liveweight loss, and mortality, which was alleviated by oral administration of AA, E, and AA + E at doses of 60 mg, 30 mg, and 60 + 30 mg per kg bodyweight, respectively, 30 minutes before being loaded and transported. The meteorological conditions recorded during the study period were higher (P < .05) than the thermoneutral values established for chickens in the zone. In conclusion, the administration of vitamins AA, E, and AA + E, especially AA, ameliorated the risk of adverse effects of handling, loading, transportation, and thermal stress in pullets during the hot-dry season.

Biometric and morphologic studies of the female reproductive organs of the African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus: Waterhouse)

Different segments of the reproductive tract of 100 adult, non-pregnant, female African giant rats (AGR) were carefully examined, weighed, and measured. The ovaries were observed to be small, pinkish, and kidney-shaped. The uterus of the AGR was found to be uterus duplex. The live weight of the AGR was 999.7 ± 16.86 g. The weight, length, and width of the ovary were 0.095 ± 0.003 g, 0.750 ± 0.01 cm, and 0.01± 0.02 cm, respectively. The length of the oviduct, uterus, and vagina/vestibule were 4.44 ± 0.06 cm, 4.877 ± 0.11 cm, and 4.345 ± 0.07 cm, respectively. The weight and length of the entire tubular organs were 3.171 ± 0.01 g and 13.559 ± 0.18 cm with corresponding range values of 1.61-7.10 g and 7.80-17.40 cm, respectively.

Effects of heat stress on some blood parameters and egg production of Shika Brown layer chickens transported by road

The effects of vitamins C and E on layer chickens transported by road for 6 h during the hot dry season were investigated. Two experimental groups consisting of thirty Shika Brown layers were separately administered vitamins C and E orally just before transportation, while another 30 layers, which were only given sterile water, served as control. Blood samples analyzed before and after transportation in the control layers showed a decrease (p<0.05) in total white blood cell, (p<0.01) lymphocyte and monocyte values, and a significant (p<0.05) and (p<0.001) increase in the values of eosinophils and heterophils post-transportation, respectively. In the experimental groups, post-transportation values of total white blood cells, eosinophils and monocytes were not different (p>0.05) from those obtained before transportation. Heterophil/lymphocyte values were highest in the control group. The result showed that transportation was stressful for the control layers. Post-transportation egg production was not significantly (p>0.05) different in the vitamin E treated group, but values recorded for the vitamin C and control groups were significantly (p<0.05) and (p<0.001) reduced compared to pre-transportation. In conclusion, vitamins C and E administration ameliorated the adverse effect of road transportation stress during the hot dry season.

Ameliorative effects of vitamin C on short-term sensorimotor and cognitive changes induced by acute chlorpyrifos exposure in Wistar rats

Human and experimental animal studies have shown long- and short-term neurological sequelae following acute organophosphate (OP) exposure. Although the main molecular mechanism of OP neurotoxiicty involves acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, studies have also implicated the induction of oxidative stress. The present study was therefore aimed at evaluating the effect of acute chlorpyrifos (CPF) exposure on short-term sensorimotor and cognitive changes in Wistar rats, the role of brain lipoperoxidative changes and the effect of pretreatment with vitamin C. Twenty-eight rats divided into four groups of seven rats in each group served as subjects for this study. Rats in group I were given soya oil (2 ml/kg) while those in group II were dosed vitamin C (100 mg/kg). Group III were administered CPF only (42.5 mg/kg ∼50% of LD50), while group IV were pretreated with vitamin C (100 mg/kg) and then exposed to CPF (42.5 mg/kg), 30 min later. The regimens were administered once orally and the animals were examined for clinical signs, death and subjected to periodic neurobehavioral evaluation for motor strength, coordinated gait, neuromuscular coordination, learning and memory. At the end of 8 weeks of evaluation, the rats were sacrificed and the brain tissue evaluated for AChE activity and malonaldehyde (MDA) concentration, as an index of lipoperoxidative changes. The rats administered with CPF showed deficits in motor strength, coordinated gaits, neuromuscular coordination, learning and memory, slight decrease in AChE activity and an increase in brain MDA concentration. Pretreatment with vitamin C improved the neurobehavioral deficits and AChE activity, and caused a significant reduction in MDA concentration. In conclusion, the study has demonstrated that acute CPF exposure in Wistar rats caused short-term impairment in sensorimotor and cognitive functions partly due to brain lipoperoxidative changes, which were ameliorated by pretreatment with vitamin C.

Sexual dimorphism in the whole brain and brainstem morphometry in the African giant pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse 1840)

The study was conducted to evaluate the sexual dimorphism in the morphometric parameters of the whole brain and the brainstem in adult captive African giant pouched rats. Twenty-nine brain samples, comprising 15 females and 14 males, were utilized. Following brain extraction by standard procedures, the mean values of the weights, lengths, diameters, and volumes of the intact brains and the brainstem structures were compared in male and female rats using quantitative analytical statistical methods. The absolute brain weight obtained in the male was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that of the female while the relative brain weight obtained in the female (0.636 +/- 0.049%) was higher than that of the male rats (0.564 +/- 0.032%), although the difference in the values was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The lengths of the brain and myelencephalon, as well as the weights of the myelencephalon and mesencephalon, did not differ between the two sexes (p > 0.05). The weights and lengths of the pons did not differ between the two sexes (p > 0.05). There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the pyramidal length and a highly significant difference (p < 0.01) in the pyramidal width between the two sexes, with the male rats having higher values. This pioneering sexual dimorphic brain morphometry provides information for further research.

Ameliorative effect of vitamin C on chronic chlorpyrifos-induced erythrocyte osmotic fragility in Wistar rats

Chronic exposure to chlorpyrifos (CPF) has been shown to cause increased lipoperoxidative changes in the erythrocyte membranes. The relationship between chronic CPF-induced lipoperoxidative changes and erythrocyte fragility has not been elucidated. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the role of lipoperoxidation on CPF-induced erythrocyte fragility and the ameliorative effect of vitamin C. Twenty animals divided at random into four groups of five animals each served as subject for this study. Rats in group I served as the control group and were given only soya oil at a dose of 2 mL/kg body weight (b.w.). Rats in group II were dosed with vitamin C (100 mg/kg b.w.) and then supplemented with soya oil (2 mL/kg b.w.), while those in group III were administered with CPF only at a dose of 10.6 mg/kg b.w. (~one-eighth of the previously determined median lethal dose [LD(50)]). Rats in group IV were pretreated with 100 mg/kg b.w. of vitamin C, and then dosed with CPF at a dose of 10.6 mg/kg b.w., 30 min later. The different treatment regimens were orally administered daily for a period of 17 weeks. Blood collected from the animals at the end of the test period were analyzed for erythrocyte osmotic fragility and malonaldehyde (MDA) concentration as an index of lipid peroxidation. The study showed that CPF caused significant increase in erythrocyte fragility and MDA concentration, which were ameliorated by pretreatment with vitamin C. In conclusion, the study showed that CPF-evoked erythrocyte fragility due to increased lipoperoxidative changes was ameliorated by pretreatment with vitamin C.

Haematology and behaviour of pullets transported by road and administered with ascorbic acid during the hot-dry season

The effects of ascorbic acid (AA) on pullets transported by road for 6h during the hot-dry season were investigated. Forty Shika Brown pullets administered orally with AA just before transportation served as experimental, while another 40 pullets given sterile water only served as control. Blood samples analyzed before and after transportation in control pullets showed a decrease (P<0.05) in packed cell volume and haemoglobin values, and a significant (P<0.05) increase in the values of heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, total protein and basophil counts post-transportation. In experimental pullets, the post-transportation values were not different (P>0.05) from those obtained pre-transportation. The result showed that the transportation was stressful in control pullets. The behavioural activities of the pullets' post-transportation period indicated that AA facilitated the transition of the state of depression that followed excitation back to excitation immediately after transportation. In conclusion, AA administration ameliorated the adverse effect of road transportation stress during the hot-dry season.