Zaria Kaduna State Research Articles

Evaluation of candidate monovalent Bitis arietans antivenom using eggs from hyperimmunized layer chickens in Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria

Aim: This research sought to experiment on a cheaper alternative to snake antivenom production using hyperimmunized chicken eggs. Methods: Twenty-two Swiss albino mice were used to determine the median lethal dose (LD50) and lethality neutralization assay. Twenty-layer chickens, aged 17-weeks-old were divided into two groups of 10 chickens each. Based on body weight, group A were hyperimmunized with 1/5th LD50 of crude Bitis arietans venom in adjuvant (Montanide™ ISA 201) at two-weeks interval over eight-weeks period; while group B were administered normal saline. Using polyethylene glycol 6000, immunoglobulin Y was extracted from 15 pooled egg yolks. Twelve Wistar rats were used for the haemorrhagic and anti-haemorrhagic assays. The haemolytic activity of the venom and anti-haemolytic effect of the candidate antivenom was determined in vitro using caprine erythrocytes. Results: The LD50 of the pooled Bitis arietans venom was 0.9 mg/kg. Agar gel immunodiffusion test confirmed the presence of precipitin antibodies in the candidate antivenom. EchiTab plus-ICP® neutralized lethal effect of all dilutions and the stock (10 mg/ml) venom of Bitis arietans while the candidate antivenom was limited to 3log2 dilution of the stock venom (1.25 mg/ml). In the haemorrhagic assay the venom exhibited haemorrhagic activity at 2.5, 5 and 10 mg/ml and the highest anti-haemorrhagic activity of the candidate antivenom at 10mg/ml. The candidate antivenom exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) anti-haemolytic activity against the venom of Bitis arietans at 10 mg/ml. Conclusion: The antibodies have inhibitory properties against the lethal, haemorrhagic and haemolytic properties of Bitis arietans venom.

Prevalence of Parasites Infestation in Cultured and Wild African Catfish in Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria

The study aimed to investigate the occurrence of gastrointestinal (GIT) parasites in wild and cultured catfish (Clarias gariepinus) in Zaria and its Environs, Nigeria. Two hundred and forty (240) African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) of both sexes were sampled from cultured ponds and some water bodies around Zaria (including Galma dam, river Kubanni, River Saye). The fish were transported to the Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria and used for the study. The catfish were dissected longitudinally and examine for parasites (GIT) grossly, and using Simple flotation technique for parasite eggs and oocysts of helminths and protozoans. Modified Ziehl Neelson staining technique was further performed on oocysts suspected to be Cryptosporidium. The result showed an overall occurrence of 32.5% for GIT parasites in Clarias gariepinus in the study area. The GIT parasites identified in both wild and cultured Clarias gariepinus were Procamallanus laevionchus (46.7%), Capillaria species (13.3%), and some unknown helminths (40.0%). There was a highly significant difference (p = 0.001) in the occurrence of Crytosporidium oocysts in wild Clarias gariepinus (86.2%) compared with cultured Clarias gariepinus (13.8%). Based on the sex; there was an observably higher occurrence of GIT parasites in male catfish (17.1%) than in female (15.4%), although not statistically significant (p = 0.645). The finding of this work revealed that gastrointestinal parasites are prevalent in the Clarias species sampled in Zaria and its Environs. It is hereby recommended that effective control measures and good culinary practices should be adopted to decimate the effect of these parasites in fish, especially those raised in culture ponds to improve productivity.

Serological evidence of Newcastle disease virus antibodies in wild birds in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Wild birds have been reported to be reservoirs of viral diseases of poultry, and play an epidemiological role in their maintenance and spread. A serological survey was undertaken to determine the evidence of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) antibodies in wild birds in Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria. A total of 150 apparently healthy wild birds comprising 30 each laughing dove, speckled pigeons, cattle egrets, village weavers and African silver bills were sampled. Sera collected were analysed for the presence of antibodies against NDV and avian paramyxovirus‑2 (APMV‑2) using the haemagglutination inhibition test. The results showed an overall seroprevalence of 4% (95% CI: 2.05‑10.1) to NDV. African silver bill showed a seroprevalence of 10.0% (95% CI: 2.61‑24.9) NDV antibodies while seroprevalence of 3.3% (95% CI: 0.16‑15.4) was recorded for cattle egrets, village weavers and laughing doves respectively. No statistically significant difference existed for NDV seroprevalence (P>0.05) among the different species of wild birds. All the 150 sera tested negative for APMV‑2 antibodies. The result of this study confirmed the exposure of wild birds to NDV in the study area. Continuous surveillance with isolation and characterization of NDV in the wild birds is therefore recommended for strategic planning for control.

Effects of Garlic (Allium sativum) on Growth and Haematological Parameters in African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Juveniles

Fishes are most abundant aquatic vertebrates; they are being consumed by humans as protein supplements and as well serve as raw materials in drugs industries and source of foreign exchange. Juveniles Clarias gariepinus were sourced from ABU Institute of Agriculture Mando, Zaria Kaduna State and acclimatized for two weeks and fed 4mm Bluecrown feed containing 45% crude protein diet at 3% body weight twice daily at 12hours interval. Feed was formulated with garlic extract in to five groups; A (0.0g/kg), B (0.5g/kg), C (1.0g/kg), D (2.0g/kg) and E (5.0g/kg) diet. Fishes were grouped into five (triplicates) and feed different diets. Fish fed with 0.5g/kg garlic mixture supplemented diet increases significantly in growth when compared with the control groups and those other groups fed with 1.0 g/kg, 2.0 g/kg and 5.0 g/kg Garlic supplement. Similarly, among dietary groups, food conversion ratio (FCR) improved significantly (p < 0.05) in fish fed with 1.0 g/kg and 0.5 g/kg Garlic supplemented diet when compared with those fed with D (2.0 g/kg), D (5.0 g/kg) and control (0.0 g/kg). Percentage weight gain, mean weight and survival rate decreases as garlic supplements in the diets increases. Differences observed in packed cell volume (PCV) and White blood cell (WBC) were significantly high in 0.5g/kg garlic supplemented groups (PCV 33% and WBC 23.1 x103µL-1) when compared with the control group (PCV 27% and WBC 19.1 x103µL-1) and other groups with higher garlic supplements. Overall, fish fed with 0.5 g/kg garlic mixture extracts had improved haematological indices when compared with those fed with higher concentrations and control group. The study concluded that, 0.5g/kg level of garlic could effectively improve the growth performance, healthier and survival rate of Clarias gariepinus. This study was conducted to evaluate the dietary effects of garlic on growth and haematological parameters of Clarias gariepinus.

MODIFICATION OF TERMITE MOUND SOIL USING PHOSPHORIC ACID FOR PHOTODEGRADATION OF METHYLENE BLUE DYE UNDER UV LIGHT IRRADIATION

Termite mound was mined from the termite nest spotted at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria. It was washed with deionized water and placed in an oven set at 60oC for 6 hrs before crushing with an aggregate impact crusher and sieved into 0.075 m mesh pore size. The sieved soil sample was tagged as unmodified-TMS (termite mound soil). The soil sample was modified using orthophosphoric acid (H3PO4) at different (5 %, 10 %, 15 %, and 20 %) concentrations. The modified and unmodified-TMS were characterized by the methods of scanning electronic microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Electron diffractive X-ray (EDX), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), and Selected area electron diffraction (SAED), The photocatalytic activity of the unmodified-TMS, 5 % TMS-H3PO4, 10 % TMS-H3PO4 , 15 % TMS-H3PO4 , and 20 % TMS-H3PO4, were assessed by testing the degradation rate of Methylene Blue under ultraviolet light irradiation using optimum parameters (1.5 g/L, pH 11 & 75 mg/L). The results indicated that the samples exhibited the best photocatalytic activity at optimum parameters of catalyst dosage 1.5 g /L. pH 11 and 75 mg/L concentration of MB as evidenced by the highest methylene degradation rate of (88 %). The photocatalytic degradation of Methylene blue dye was found to obey first-order kinetics.

A Review of Literature On Service Quality, Safety Perception, and Customer Satisfaction in the Airline Industry

A Review of Literature On Service Quality, Safety Perception, and Customer Satisfaction in the Airline Industry 1Uhuegho, K.O. , 2Bakare K. A., 3Ajisola A. O. & 4 Akume A.A. 1,2&3 Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria 4Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria E-mails: 1kole_k45@yahoo.com, 2 bakarre@gmail.com 3olowoyeye.ajisola@gmail.com 4 akume@abu.edu.ng Corresponding Authors Phone No: 1+2348028800696 ABSTRACT The continuous growth, profitability and scalability of any business is highly dependent on Service quality. It is therefore a prime issue among airlines globally and in Nigeria in particular. Consumer or customer’s perception of service quality in the airline industry rests on a number of factors. This article reviews literature on service quality in the airline industry and identified cogent parameters used to measure same. Passenger satisfaction, safety perception and theoretical antecedents and underpinnings associated with the subject matter were examined. We conclude by identifying gaps in service quality with a view to initate a research the seeks to fill the identified gaps. Keywords: Service Quality, Airline Industry, Customers, Satisfaction, Gaps, Passengers Uhuegho, K.O., Bakare K. A., Ajisola A. O. & Akume A.A. (2022): A Review of Literature On Service Quality, Safety Perception and Customer Satisfaction in the Airline Industry. Journal of Digital Innovations & Contemporary Research in Science, Engineering & Technology. Vol. 10 No. 1. Pp 73-92 DOI: dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/DIGITAL/V10N1P8

Isolation and molecular characterization of domestic Bradyrhizobium species from soybean roots in the savannah soil of Nigeria

Abstract. The identification of effective indigenous strains of Bradyrhizobia could lead to the development of efficient and affordable inoculants for improving soil fertility. This can also promote nitrogen fixation in smallholder farming systems of Nigeria and as well make the use of nitrogen fertilizers unnecessary. This study was conducted to characterize and evaluate the nodulating properties of indigenous Bradyrhizobium species in soybean plant. A total of 18 strains were isolated using Bradyrhizobium japonicum selective medium (BJSM) from the root nodules of plants harvested from five sites on Ahmadu Bello University farm, Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria. These isolates were evaluated for nodulating potential in a screen house using soybean (TGx 1448-2E) as a test crop. The total number of nodules, percentage effective nodules, nodule fresh and dry weights, shoot fresh and dry weight and plant nitrogen content were assessed. The nodules produced by the isolates showed high percentage effectiveness with isolate A4 having significantly higher nodule dry weight (78.00 mg) than the rest of the test isolates. The soybean inoculant, BIOFIX used in this study performed poorly having a nodule dry weight of 6.0 mg. There was positive and highly significant correlation between the nodule dry weight, shoot dry weight and plant nitrogen content (r=0.740, 0.641, 0.616, respectively) at p<0.001. Sequence analyses were carried out on the high performing isolates from each site of sampling and the result obtained using the NCBI Database showed similarity of these isolates with reference strains belonging to the genus Bradyrhizobium (A4- Bradyrhizobium japonicum RV9, B2- Bradyrhizobium guangdongense CCBAU 51649, C1- Bradyrhizobium sp. UFLA05-149, D3- Bradyrhizobium sp. B918 and E3- Bradyrhizobium sp.UFLA05-149). A 16srRNA phylogenetic tree constructed with the sequences obtained grouped the isolates without any close reference strain. However, isolate B2 showed close affiliation with Bradyrhizobium guagdongense with 95% sequence identity. Based on the effectiveness of these five strains of Bradyrhizobium, it is suggested that they can be used as potential candidate for inoculants production.

EVALUATION OF RAINFALL TRENDS DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE: A CASE STUDY OF SAMARU, ZARIA

Rainfall is the major source of water for agricultural activities in Nigeria, but there has been a major variation due to climate change. This study is to assess the change in rainfall trend due the impact of climate change in Samaru, Zaria Kaduna State. Rainfall data from 1981 – 2018 (38 years) were collected from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET). The data was analyzed using Excel and XL-Statistics to evaluate the mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation of monthly and annual rainfall and other statistical parameter. The study revealed that there is a significant change in the trend of annual rainfall as the highest rainfall was recorded in year 1994 with a value of 1487 mm and lowest rainfall in 1999 as 440 mm. The highest average monthly rainfall data is between July to September and a peak rainfall in August with an average value of 547 mm. This analysis provide useful information to farmers which can be used a basis for planning annual crop planting and also water resources planning such as in irrigation scheduling.

Modeling and Simulation of the Impact of Temperature on Single Point Load Cell using Trnsys 16.0: Measured, Uncompensated and Error Data for Zaria Kaduna State

A load cell is a piece of machined metal called a transducer or load sensor. As a measuring device, the entire framework is prone to the impact of environmental forces which can produce errors in the load cell output. The most significant force or input modifier is high ambient temperature. Typical meteorological year document demonstrates that in March, April, and May the temperature in Zaria can surpass 40ºC degrees on some days, including in most parts of northern Nigeria. It then implies that most weighing scales in the open environment will normally have a diminished sensitivity and along these lines yield wrong outcomes which can affect critical decisions with respect to weight control and well-being. Thus, this research aims to model and simulate the impact of high ambient temperature on a load cell using TRNSYS simulation studio. And its specific objectives are; to develop the model mathematically using the method of high gain feedback in a closed-loop to measure and compensate for errors due to ambient temperature above 40°C, to program the model using FORTRAN programming language at the back end, to simulate the model using a typical year meteorological weather data file for Zaria (11.0855°N, 7.7199°E). The procedures to model and simulate the effect of high ambient temperatures on load cell sensitivity include; the development of the model mathematically using the equation for high gain feedback in a closed-loop, programing the model using FORTRAN programming language (g 95 in Code block IDE), simulation of the model using a typical year meteorological weather data file for Zaria, (obtainable from meteorological Agencies). In the simulation, 75 kg was used as the sample weight. And the data obtained shows that in March at 1416.0 h, when no load is applied, there is a drift in the output range of the system even though the ambient temperature 20.152°C is within the scope of load cell compensation. Noticeably, the feedback system re-calibrated the scale thus eliminating the error and returning the gauge to 0.0 kg. The highest ambient temperature in March was recorded at 1981.0 h as 47.246°C with a corresponding error of 0.142. The feedback system evaluates the uncompensated value, eliminates the error and returns a correct value of 75 kg corresponding to the measured value. In April a drift in the system output range was also noticed at 2160.0 h, with a corresponding error of 0.150 before the feedback system re-calibrated the scale to 0.0 kg. The highest ambient temperature for April is 46.48°C at 2292.0 h and the corresponding error is 0.139. The feedback system again evaluates the uncompensated value, resolves the error and returns 75 kg corresponding to the measured value or known weight. While in May a drift in the system output range was also noticed at 2880.0 and the feedback system quickly returns the value to 0.0 kg. The highest ambient temperature of 46.86 is seen at 3037.0 h with a corresponding error of 0.141. The feedback system again evaluates the uncompensated value, resolves the error and returns 75 kg corresponding to the measured value.

Evaluation of Proximate Compositions of Some Edible Insects in Zaria Kaduna State Nigeria

The present study was carried out to evaluate the proximate compositions of some edible insects in Zaria. Five edible insects were sampled for this study, Crickets (Branchytropes memberanacoeus), Dung beetles (Helicropris angulifera), Termites (Macrotermes nigeriensis), small Grasshopper (Zonocerus variegatus) and large Grasshopper (Kraussaria angulifera). Cricket species were recorded to have the highest value for moisture (4.18%) and Ash (11.62%). Big grasshopperhad the highest value for Carbohydrate (34.08%). Termites had the highest percentage of crude protein (58.99%) and crude fiber (7.09%). Proximate composition values obtained for edible insects sampled for this work were all significant(P<0.05) except for Crude Protein. It is therefore recommended that more Termites (Macrotermes nigeriensis) should be consumed for protein and crude fat (lipid) derivation. The lipids content recorded for termites in this work were higher than those of Chicken (1.5%) and Fish (2.7-5.0%).

ANALYSIS OF TOURISM DESTINATION COMPONENTS OF ZARIA URBAN AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Tourism is not just a lucrative sector but the fastest growing industry in the world. Many people travel miles to satisfy their pleasure apatite at any destination where satisfaction can be met. But some destinations are flooded while some are scanty. There are many approaches to investigate this and many studies had been done. But despite all these, each destination is unique in terms of its components and attractions combination, this form the basis for this study. The aim of this study is to analyze tourism destination components in Zaria Kaduna State of Nigeria. Tourists’ opinions were sampled through questionnaire at various strategic centers to cover all tourism elements at the destination. Data collected were analyzed using Importance Performance Analysis technique (IPA). The results prove attraction to be the primary destination component i.e. main attractant, while accommodation and accessibility as secondary attractants (Facilitators) in the destination. The outcomes suggest major shortcomings that are traced to poor advertisement, insecurity in the destination e.t.c. The study established the state of the attractiveness of Zaria as a tourist destination, what components and elements are attractive and are not and the factors that influence these. In line with these, the study proposes recommendation that the local tourism board needs to be rejuvenated in other to enhance the local tourism industries to improve its attractiveness among others.

Microbiological quality and HACCP of nono production in a Fulani settlement, Zaria Kaduna state, Nigeria

This research studied the frequency of occurrence of Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, yeasts and moulds in some retail uncontrolled fermented milk samples (nono), and a hazard analysis was conducted to trace the sources of contamination during processing and suggest critical control measures. Fifty (50) nono samples purchased from Fulani milkmaids in Samaru market of Zaria town, Kaduna, Nigeria, were analyzed for presence of E. coli, B. cereus, Yeasts and Moulds. The traditional processing of nono by 3 producers of some of the market samples analyzed was studied by observing processing steps, processing environment, collecting raw and fermented milk samples, cow dung, hand swabs, swabs of milk contact surfaces, and exposing sterile plates to milking environment. Nono processing for all 3 producers involved spontaneous fermentation of fresh unpasteurized milk in calabashes at ambient temperature (25±40C) for 24 hours, fat separation from fermented milk, addition of water, whisking, packaging in calabashes and storing at ambient temperature before sale. Mean plate counts of market nono samples were at levels considered unsatisfactory for E. coli (≥ 102) in 76 %of samples, potentially hazardous for B. cereus (≥104) in 78% of samples and exceeded satisfactory limits for yeasts and moulds (<10) in all samples (100%). E. coli, B. cereus, yeasts and moulds were present in all 9 milk samples collected before and after fermentation during traditional processing. Yeasts and moulds were isolated from all samples (100%) during traditional processing except for wooden spoons (78%) and hand swabs (78%). Substandard practices like using unclean hands in manual milking and use of unpasteurized milk observed during traditional processing could explain presence of these microorganisms in market samples, as was also detected in raw and fermented milk during traditional processing. Findings of this study support that of previous researchers which established the impact of substandard processing techniques and hygiene on food quality.

Studies on spread of algal species in some fish samples from three water bodies in Zaria-Kaduna state Nigeria

Studies on spread of algal species in some fish samples from three water bodies in Zaria-Kaduna state Nigeria

Evaluation of Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Among Traditional Medicine Practitioners in Zaria Kaduna State Nigeria

Evaluation of Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Among Traditional Medicine Practitioners in Zaria Kaduna State Nigeria

Land suitability evaluation of Kubanni floodplain for rice production in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Land suitability evaluation analysis is necessary to achieve optimum management and utilization of the available land resources for sustainable agricultural crops production. The objective of this study was to determine the suitable of Kubanni floodplain for rice production in Zaria Kaduna State Nigeria. Qualitative and quantitative land suitability evaluation of two mapping units in Kubanni floodplain which covers an area of 11.6 ha was carried using the detailed soil survey method of classification. Generally, the surface texture was sandy loam to loam. The soil reactions were slightly acidic to neutral, organic carbon, available phosphorus and total nitrogen were rated low. The CEC (NH4OAc) were medium and Base saturation was rated high while EC and ESP were low. Qualitatively, soil mapping units KBI and KBII were currently not suitable (N1) for rice production due to limitation imposed by soil chemical properties. Quantitatively the two units were also currently not suitable (N1) but KBII was marginally suitable (S3) potentially. With proper soil fertility management, the potentials of these soils can be raise to moderately suitable (S2) for rice through increase in organic matter to improve soil structural development, drainage and aeration thereby improving the fertility of the soils.

Sero-prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus infection in children (0-5 years) attending institute of child health Banzazzau Zaria Kaduna State

Serological survey was carried out among children attending Institute of Child Health (ICH) Banzazzau Zaria Kaduna, State, to determine the prevalence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus IgM antibodies. Ninety-one blood samples of children aged 0-5years were collected in one outpatient clinic of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria (ICH Banzazzau). Respiratory syncytial virus IgM antibody level was measured using commercial ELISA kit obtained from DIAGNOSTIC AUTOMATION, INC. Of the ninety-one blood samples collected and tested, 43(47.3%) were seropositive for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. There was male predominance, with 23 (25.3%) being positive compared in females 20 (22.0%) although, the difference was not statistically significant (P value >0.05).The seroprevalence was highest (15.4%) among infants 0-1year and lowest (5.5%) among 3 years old children..The association between RSV infection and respiratory symptoms was not statistically significant. Every child who showed seropositivity with the Respiratory Syncytial Virus had fever and no child without a fever was diagnosed positive with the virus. This study has revealed that children aged 0-5 years have high prevalence of RSV Infection in Zaria, and therefore, highlighting the need for the younger age group to be targeted for prevention programme against RSV infection. Keywords: Serology, Banzazzau, Zaria, Kaduna state, blood samples, IgM, antibodies, Respirtory Syncitial Virus (RSV)

Soil suitability evaluation for rain-fed maize production at Gabari District Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria

The need to generate adequate information for optimal and sustainable exploitation of the soils of Gabari District Zaria is imperative. The FAO land suitability evaluation was used to evaluate the soils for rain-fed maize cultivation. The total land area surveyed was 70 ha. Three soil units was mapped and designated as GBI 12.3 ha, GBII 38.8 ha and GBIII 18.9 ha. Generally, the surface texture was loam. The soil reactions were slightly acidic to neutral, organic carbon, available phosphorus and total nitrogen was rated low. The CEC (NH4OAc) were medium to high and Base saturation was rated medium while EC and ESP were low. Generally, there were no significant differences in the physical and chemical properties within the three mapping units. Soil mapping units GBI and GBIII were marginally suitable (S3) while GBII was currently not suitable (N1) for maize production due to limitation imposed by soil chemical properties and slope. With proper soil fertility management, the potentials of these soils can be increased to moderately suitable (S2) for rain-fed maize and other arable crops if recommended fertilization and uses of organic manure to improve the soils physical and chemical constraints as well as construction of contour ploughing in unit GBII to reduce the rate of erosion.Keywords: Soil, Suitability Evaluation, Agricultural potential, Gabari District

Reliability Assessment of Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System for Medical Operations in Zaria Kaduna State

Reliability Assessment of Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System for Medical Operations in Zaria Kaduna State

Morphology of Golgi stained neurons in spinal cord of African giant pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus Waterhouse) (89.2)

The spinal cord of the adult African Giant Pouched rat was studied using the rapid Golgi technique in order to get further clarification on the morphology of the neuronal cell types based on soma size, shape, dendritic density and aborization. Two main types of cells were observed to characterize the dorsal grey horn: Type 1 cells are the islet cells which were distinguished by triangulated or globular‐ shaped soma with one thick “axoniform” primary dendrite bifurcating into a Y or T secondary branches indicative of local integrating functions. They resembled the pseudounipolar cells of the dorsal root ganglion and were predominant in the cervical segments. Type 2 cells were stalked cells with several dendrites and round or polygonal soma and these were predominant in the thoracic and lumbosacral segments. The ventral grey horn demonstrated multipolar neurons with dendritic arborization arranged in a radiating or tuft‐like manner. Some cells had sparse dendrites while some other cells demonstrated unique features of a double‐pyramidal cell (conjoined neurons) joined at their apical dendrites with sparse dendritic arborization. These cells were predominant in the thoracic segment and have not been previously described. These findings give some new insight on the morphology of neurons in the spinal cord of one of the largest and unique muroids in the world.Grant Funding Source: Supported by Grant from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria Kaduna State. Nigeria

Evidence of Cryptococcosis in cattle in Zaria Kaduna state, Nigeria

Aim: Cryptococcosis is azoonotic infection caused by fungal of the Cryptococcus neoformans complex comprising of C. neoformans and C. gattii.The disease affects humans and animals worldwide causing morbidity and mortality. This work was carried out to determine the occurrence of cryptococcal antigens and factors associated with presence of antigens in cattle in Zaria, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Three hundred and ninety (390) serum samples from cattle of various ages were collected from 11 farms in Zaria, Nigeria. The samples were analysed using alatex agglutination test and lateral flow assay kit which detectsthe polysaccharide capsular antigens of Cryptococcus species. Results:Out of the 390 samples tested 28 (7.17%) were found to be positive using the latex agglutination test while only of these 22 (5.64%) were positive using the lateral flow assay. There was a strong correlation (r=0.939, p=0.0002) between the results of the latex agglutination test and the lateral flow assay. There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.005) in positivity for cryptococcal antigens between sex, age and sex, though, there was a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) in positivity between management systems i.e. semi-intensive and intensive farming systems. Conclusions: The epidemiological value of this report lies in its demonstration that the risk of cattle and humans infection with cryptococcosis exist in farms in Zaria. The presence of this pathogen among these cattle poses an economic threat to the livestock industry due to the mastitis it causes. It also poses a significant public health threat because of its zoonotic nature and the increasing population of immunocompromised individuals. Large scale studies to determine specific risk factors and the role of the environment and experimental studies to determine what governs the transition from nasal colonisation to infection are recommended.