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Adherence To Treatment Protocol Among Diabetics And The Impact On Nutritional Status
(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Brenya, A.S.
Background: Diabetes is a chronic disease and has been found to be the fourth or fifth leading cause of death in most developed, developing and newly industrialized countries. The growing middle class and ever changing lifestyle in developing countries have led to the rapid increase in the burden of diabetes (Type 2) even among the poor. The epidemiological trend has caught up with Ghana. Medical research has found that dietary treatment is the best control for type 2 diabetes. However, little is known about patients’ adherence to treatment protocol and the management of the disease in Ghana. Aims: This research therefore sought to identify and evaluate the nutritional management procedures for diabetics in the Agona Swedru municipal and to assess the adherence to treatment protocol by diabetic patients as well as the effect of adherence on their nutritional status. Methods: There was an enquiry about the nutritional protocol for diabetics at the hospital and this was compared to the GHS protocol for evaluation. A total of 90 diabetics who were 40 years and older attending review at the Agona Swedru hospital were enrolled in the study. Questionnaire was used to collect data under the following sections; sociodemographic characteristics, nutritional knowledge, lifestyle practices, dietary habits and measurement. The data collected under the measurement section, represented the nutritional status of the diabetics. To describe the socio-demographic characteristics, descriptive analysis was employed, while all of the other various sections of the questionnaire were scored. Correlations were used to find out if the scores from nutritional knowledge, dietary and lifestyle practices had associations with the nutritional status score. Adherence was measured by looking at patients’ scores on both their lifestyle and dietary habits. Person’s correlation was used to find out if adherence had an association with nutritional status. Results: The nutritional management procedures for the diabetics at Agona Swedru protocol was identified and found to be in need of updating as there were lapses when compared to the GHS protocol. More than half of the patients had a poor nutritional knowledge of diabetes though this did not have any association on nutritional status. More than half (82%) of total patients reported to be adhering to protocol; however more than half (71%) of total patients had poor nutritional status. Reported adherence for treatment did not improve the nutritional status of most of the diabetics in this study. Poor nutritional and health status was found to be high among more than half of sedentary group of patients. Conclusion: Generally, though most patients reported to be adhering to standard protocol, their nutritional statuses remained poor with inadequate physical activity level. It is therefore important that the Agona protocol is updated taking into consideration, the association between energy intake and energy expenditure in order to cause some weight loss (10%) during adherence for especially overweight and obese diabetics.
Adrenoceptor Beta 3 (Adrb3) Gene Variants and Childhood Obesity
(2015-07) Oduro, E.; Brown, C.; Asante, C.; University of Ghana, college of health sciences, School of , department of Nutrition and dietetics
Background: Childhood obesity is becoming very common worldwide and similar trends are being seen in Ghana. Various researches have shown that several genes are linked to obesity. Several genes including adrenoceptor beta 3 (ADRB3) gene have been implicated. ADRB3, is mainly expressed in adipose tissue, and contributes to variations in energy expenditure and body fat distribution. Polymorphisms of the ADRB3 have been suggested to participate in the pathogenesis of obesity. There is no information on the association between ADRB3 genotype polymorphisms and obesity in children in Ghana. Aim: This study was aimed at investigating the role of ADRB3 gene variants in obesity in children in Ghana. Methods: Sixty eight boys and girls selected from two primary schools, St Mark Basic School (Atomic) and GAEC Basic School (Atomic), were used in the study. A food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary patterns. Buccal rinse samples were collected from the children after assessment of waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), weight, height and body mass index (BMI) calculated. DNA was extracted from the buccal rinse samples and ADRB3 gene variants analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. Correlations between ADRB3 gene variants and obesity in the children were determined. Results: A total of 68 subjects, 39 cases (obese) and 29 controls (non-obese), were recruited for the study. There were more females (55.9%) compared to males (44.1%). The average age for the cases was 11.92 ±1.69 years and that of the controls was 13.17 ± 1.77 years. BMI values of the children were statistically significant different (all ps˂ 0.0001) between cases and the controls for both males and females. WHR measurements between cases and controls for female children were also statistically significant (p = 0.0039). Amplification was successful in 58 children (35 cases and 23 controls). A significant difference emerged for the ADRB3 gene Try64Arg genotype polymorphism frequencies between the cases and the controls (p = 0.0377, OR = 0.1471, 95% CI = 0.02666 to 0.8113). No significant differences (all ps > 0.05) emerged between the ADRB3 gene Try64Arg genotype polymorphism frequencies and BMI and WHR. More males consume fruits and vegetables daily compared to females. Females compared to their male counterparts frequently consume sweet drinks, fatty meat and fast foods. Conclusions: No relationships were observed between ADRB3 genotype polymorphisms and obesity among the school children.
Aflatoxin Contamination of Cassava Flour (Kokonte) Processed By Traditional Methods in Ghana
(University of Ghana, 1978-12) Lokko, P.G.; Gyang, F.N.; Kordylas, M.J.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology
Aflatoxin contamination of cassava flour (kokonte) bought in the markets of Accra has been investigated. A survey of the methods of production and of processing of the cassava chips was conducted to determine the sources of contamination in the production of the flour. Samples of the flour were analysed for aflatoxin contamination and concentrations using Thin Layer Chromatography (T.L .C.). Known levels of aflatoxin in kokonte flour samples were fed to weanling rats to determine the effects on the rats. Serum alkaline phosphatase levels were determined in the serum samples of the individual rats. The study revealed that:- (1) Three types of kokonte flour are sold at the markets of Accra and these are named according to their colours. There are red, black and white kokonte types. (2) Methods used in the processing of the cassava chips exposed the fresh roots to mould growth and hence to aflatoxin contamination. (3) Twenty-two percent of the kokonte flour samples bought from the market were found to contain aflatoxin. The mean aflatoxin concentration was calculated to be 867pg/kg. (4) There were reduced rates of growth in the rats fed on aflatoxin-contaminated diets over a period of 25 days and their food intake was also found to have reduced when compared with those of the control group. (5) The rats on aflatoxin-contaminated diets had fatty livers and there was an evidence of a growth on one of the livers. (6) Serum alkaline phosphatase levels in rats fed aflatoxin-contaminated diets were found to be higher than those observed for the rats on control diets.
Analysis of Antimicrobial Resistance in Candida Albicans Using Modulators of MDR/CDR Gene Expression
(University of Ghana, 2018-07) Yeboah, R.
Majority of life-threatening fungal infections in clinics are caused by Candida albicans. The emergence of azole resistance in fungi complicates patient management. In response to chemical stress, C. albicans make transient changes in the gene expression for survival. Notable among these is the upregulation of efflux pump which is known to be the main mechanism of antifungal resistance. Potent therapeutic agents targeting this resistance mechanism are urgently needed. Chemo-sensitization is postulated as one way to overcome antifungal resistance. Endophytic fungi produce bioactive metabolites which are used as chemotherapeutic agents. The aim of this study is to use modulators of CDR and MDRs genes as probes to study chemo-sensitization and resistance phenotypes. Also, fungal metabolites (alone and in combination with chemosensitizers) will be used to reverse antifungal resistance. On analysis of phenotypic switching of the fungal cells in the presence of efflux modulators and phenotypic modifiers, S. cerevisiae was frequently observed to switch phenotypes as compared to C. albicans. Chemical compounds, including, compounds PC04-10, PC04-11, PC04-16 and PC04-23, significantly modified the antimicrobial phenotypes of Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae and could be considered for use as synergistic partners of antifungal drugs to overcome resistance. Also, it was realized that some compounds including rifampicin, estradiol, PC04-09 and PC04-14 caused resistance. A total of 40 out of 507 bioactive and 90 chemosensitizing extracts were identified from SBF and TEF fungal extracts. In the Rhodamine efflux assay, six compounds were found to inhibit S. cerevisiae efflux, these well trifluoperazine, trifluoprozerazine, thioridazine, chlorpromazine, deferasirox and ibuprofen, whereas in C. albicans only the last four out of the six compounds were active. Also, 13 out of 20 chemosensitizing extracts significantly inhibited efflux activity of C. albicans and S. cerevisiae. Thus, fungi are good sources of novel and potent antifungal and chemosensitizing compounds.
Analysis of Histidine Rich Protein 2 And 3 Gene Deletion Polymorphisms in Northern Ghana
(University of Ghana, 2017-07) Ayelazuno, F.A.
The use of Plasmodium falciparum histidine rich protein 2 based (PfHRP2-based) Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) to accurately diagnose falciparum malaria from other febrile cases reporting to health facilities in Ghana plays a vital role in the control of malaria. However, false negatives due to deletion polymorphism in the pfhrp2 gene may lead to misdiagnosis, increased morbidity as a direct result of delayed treatment and ultimately high treatment cost. Therefore, determining the prevelance of parasites that carry these polymorphisms could be of relevance to National Malaria Control Programmes (NMCPs). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and geo-spatial distribution of P. falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 and 3 gene deletion polymorphism in the Kassena-Nankana Districts (KNDs). Patients reporting with fever or history of fever were recruited after informed consent was obtained. Thick and thin blood smears were used to assess malaria parasite species and density of parasitemia whilst filter paper dried blood spots (DBS) were made for parasite DNA extraction for detection of deletion polymorphism. DNA was extracted using Qiagen midi kit following the manufacturer’s instructions. The exon 1-2, exon 2 and the flanking genes of pfhrp2, the exon 2 of phrp3 were amplified using specific primer pairs. PCR products were resolved by 2.0 % agarose gel electrophoresis. A total of 197 samples were collected, out of which 99 were found to be positive for P. falciparum. The prevalence of parasites that were found to have deleted exon 1-2 of the pfhrp2 gene was 7.7% (7/99), whilst 14.1% (14/99) were detected to have deleted the upstream gene of pfhrp2 gene. I observed 4.0 % (4/99) of parasites that had deleted exon 2 of the pfhrp2 gene and only one parasite was found to have deleted the entire pfhrp3 gene. Geo-spatial analysis did not reveal location specific differences in prevalence of pfhrp2 deletion polymorphisms. Overall, this study shows a low prevalence pfhrp 2 and/or 3 gene delection in the KNDs of northern Ghana. Evidence that pfhrp2 based RDTsmay still be an effective tool for diagnosing malaria in this region.
Analysis of Low Molecular Weight Compounds Produced by Indigenous Wood Decay Fungi
(University of Ghana, 2011-03) Aboagye, S.Y.
Over the years, natural products have played a major role in the search for novel drugs or drug candidates. Secondary metabolites from nature especially those of fungal origin exhibit unique biological activities and research continue to meet the keen interests which have potential pharmaceutical value. Fungi constitute an important source of secondary metabolites such as penicillin. The present study analyzed the biological activities of a variety of compound mixtures from wood decay fungi. A total of 54 wood decay fungi (WDF) were collected, with majority obtained from the University of Ghana campus and its surroundings. The WDF were cultured in potato dextrose broth (PDB) for 48 days and the time course analysis of two selected WDF were also performed to determine the profile of specific bioactivities. Cultures were terminated and extracted with ethyl acetate at the end of the 48th day of culture. WDF extracts were analyzed spectrophotometrically at wavelengths between 200 nm and 900 nm which showed high absorption in the UV region of the spectrum. TLC analyses of the fungal extracts were done using EtOAc: CH3CN: PetEth (7:2:1) as the solvent system and different classes of compounds were detected on TLC plates sprayed with Anisaldehyde reagent. UV detection of compounds on TLC showed unique band pattern for the different WDF. Assays for biological activities of the fungal extracts were performed against S. aureus ATCC.2, E. coli NMIMR.3, C. albicans KBTH.2 and A. niger ATCC.2 using disc diffusion assay method. From the primary screening of antimicrobial activity, a total of 40 WDF extracts were found to exhibit some form antimicrobial activity towards the test organism. Out of total 40 that had an activity, 10 of the WDF extracts were found to have biological activity selectively (SG+) against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC.2, and 13 extracts were also found to have a broad spectrum antimicrobial activity (BSAB) against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC.2 and Escherichia coli NMIMR.3. The number of extracts that had selective antifungal (SAF) activity towards Candida albicans KBTH.2 was found to be 3. The number of WDF that exhibited a non selective antimicrobial (NSAM) activity towards the three test organisms, S. aureus ATCC.2, E. coli NMIMR.3and C. albicans KBTH.2 were recorded to be 11. The time course analysis showed that fungal metabolites are produced as early as the 7th day of culture, however cultures that were harvested between 22nd and the 48th day of culture produced potent bioactive components. . After the secondary screening of 27 WDF, inhibitory activity against only S. aureus ATCC.2 was found to be possessed by 9 refermented extracts. Inhibitory activity towards both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria tested was found in 6 extracts. Four (4) refermented extracts also exhibited inhibition towards S. aureus ATCC.2 and C. albicans KBTH.2. A shift in antimicrobial activity was observed after the secondary screen. Sephadex LH-20 fractions of the selected WDF extracts showed the broad spectrum activities of the individual fractions. All the extracts (A4, E2, E9 and F3) that showed broad spectrum activities against a Gram + and Gram – bacteria had common fraction/s possessing the biological activities. In those extracts (B6 and B7) that inhibited a Gram + bacteria and a fungus, the biological activities were seen in different fractions.
Analysis of Perceptions and Expectations of Food Quality Among Food Manufacturers and Consumers: A Case Study in Accra
(2002-09) Vowotor, R.Y.; Sakyi-Dawson, E.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Food Science
The consumer’s perception of quality has been identified as the benchmark for quality around which all processing and marketing activities must revolve in order to achieve maximum profitability in industry, hi spite of this awareness, the consumer’s perception o f quality is yet to be fully understood to enable manufacturers translate consumer needs and expectations into business success. A number o f factors account for this failure including the complexity, subjectivity and multidimensional nature o f quality. The objective of this study was to conduct a quality perception study among Ghanaian consumers and manufacturers to investigate their understanding and evaluation o f quality. A consumer perception study was carried out among Ghanaians involving a random sample o f 422 consumers and 110 food manufacturers to assess their understanding o f quality and identify quality dimensions as well as other situational and demographic factors that influence consumer purchase decision-making and behaviour. Methods employed by manufacturers to translate consumer expectations into tangible quality products were also investigated. The study involved administering o f questionnaires, sensory analysis and a purchase intercept survey. Findings o f the study revealed that most Ghanaian consumers had an understanding o f quality. Consumers adopted the consumer-oriented approach to quality and defined quality as the weighted characteristics of a product, which in their totality add up to the customer’s satisfaction. Quality expectations were many and varied among consumers as these were tied to the individual needs o f consumers. Expectations were expressed in terms o f sensory attributes, labelling, safety, wholesomeness, price, packaging, performance, reliability, nutritional quality, fitness for use and advertising among others. Results o f this study further indicated that consumers’ expectations of quality served as their criteria for evaluating product quality and therefore had great influence on how consumers perceived quality. A number o f product attributes were identified to have profound influence on consumer quality perception and purchase behaviour. Product labelling was identified as one o f such attributes and played a significant role in initial purchase situations. Of relevance were the expiry date, list of ingredients, safety and nutritional information on product labels. Various aspects o f packaging including size, type o f seal or closure, type and strength o f packaging material, and package disposability were also identified to influence how consumers’ perceived quality. Consumers also showed awareness o f environmental issues related to packaging. Respondents’ concerns for product safety and wholesomeness expressed in this study suggested that Ghanaian consumers resident in Accra were health conscious. Not only were they interested in purchasing nutritious food products, but they were equally weary about the health implications associated with the use of preservatives, presence o f high levels o f some food components notably sugar, salt, fat, and cholesterol in food products known to be associated with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Consumers also demanded that food should be well processed, wholesome and sold under hygienic conditions. Consumers evaluated food products using quality dimensions derived from their expectations o f quality. All these dimensions were important and integrated into the perceived quality during the purchase decision-making process. Nevertheless, consumers weighed the dimensions differently depending on the dimension being considered, the product being purchased, the consumer purchasing the product, familiarity with the product and other external situational influences. Consumers’ perception o f food was also found to be dependent on the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics o f consumers. Quality studied from the perspective of manufacturers revealed that the food industry employed methods such as market surveillance, perception studies, consumer complaints and suggestion boxes to identify the quality expectations of their customers. These quality expectations were translated into products using product specifications and different quality systems ranging from simple quality control to the implementation o f ISO quality systems. Some industries supported these efforts with quality management training o f their personnel. Contrary to manufacturers’ claims that quality must be defined in terms o f consumer satisfaction and that their customers were satisfied with their products, a high level o f consumer dissatisfaction was recorded among consumers sampled in this study. These findings point to the fact that most manufacturing practices are inadequate and inefficient and further indicate that a big gap exists between the deliveiy o f quality by industry and customer satisfaction. Industry would therefore need to show greater commitment to quality in order to make customer satisfaction and business success a reality. A step in this direction would involve adopting a systematic approach to tackling quality issues. Industry’s effort should be geared towards the identification of target markets, obtaining a clear understanding o f the quality expectations o f these market segments and identifying quality dimensions used by consumers and their relative importance in the quality evaluation and subsequent purchase decision making processes. Above all, quality ought to be seen as the collective responsibility o f society, and industry must strive to foster a closer and more cordial relationship with the consuming public to reap the indispensable benefits of this consumer-manufacturer partnership.
Anti-Diabetic and Probiotic Effect of Kombucha on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic
(University of Ghana, 2019-07) Adade, E.E.
Diabetes mellitus, is a metabolic disorder caused by the inability of the beta pancreatic cells to adequately produce insulin or due to insulin resistance of cells. As a result of the increasingly high incidence of diabetes globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has set timelines and guidelines for the reduction of the risk of mortalities and morbidities associated with non-communicable diseases including diabetes, by the year 2030. However, this agenda is hinged on the availability of affordable, safe and effective alternatives for the management and treatment of these diseases. Hence, there is a need to explore other alternatives to the conventional oral anti-hyperglycemic agents driven by factors such as patient’s preference, demand among others. Kombucha is tea fermented by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY). Consumers of Kombucha have reported several anecdotal evidences of its medicinal potential. This study seeks to investigate its anti-diabetic and probiotic effect on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. It was hypothesized that Kombucha, being a complex matrix of microorganisms and nutraceuticals, would play an essential role in the management of diabetes. Molecular characterization of the microbiome of Kombucha using shotgun metagenomics (Oxford Nanopore MINION sequencing technology) showed Brettanomyces bruxellensis CBS 2499 as the most abundant species within the microbial community accounting for about 51 % of all reads. Brettanomyces anomalus, Komagataeibacter xylinus NBRC 15237, Bacillus nealsonii AAU1, Zygosaccharomyces bailii CLIB 213, Acetobacter, Gluconobacter and over 300 other genera and species of microorganisms including archaea and viruses were also detected using a combination of REFSEQ and One Codex data bases (OXCDB). In-vivo experiment was used to evaluate the anti-diabetic property, safety and gut microbiome changes of Kombucha. Kombucha was found to perform better than the conventional antidiabetic drugs, metformin and glibenclamide in lowering the fasting blood glucose (FBG) of the diabetic rats. Daily administration of 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of freeze-dried Kombucha tea demonstrated a 5 fold reduction in FBG (p<0.05) and 40% and 50% respective increases in body weight of the alloxan-induced diabetic rats compared to the diabetic control (DC). Histological analysis, shows Kombucha enhances pancreas regeneration and hence the concomitant increase in insulin secretion as demonstrated in the study. Serum lipid profiling showed 100mg/kg Kombucha treatment increases the levels of total cholesterol (16%), high density lipoproteins (HDL) (13%) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) (10%) but conversely reduces triglyceride level (17%) compared to the DC (p>0.05). Further analyses demonstrated that Kombucha decreases the relative organ (liver and kidney) to body weight ratio in treated animals. In addition, Kombucha was able to reduce significantly the elevated levels of liver enzymes such as Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) as well as renal toxicity indices, creatinine and urea in treated animals. Histology of the kidney and liver also showed that Kombucha has no adverse effect on the morphology and cellular integrity of these organs suggesting its hepatoprotective and renal protective potentials. Urinanalysis also showed reduction of glucose in urine for the 100 mg/kg Kombucha-treated animals. Additionally, Kombucha protects the gut microbiome, most significantly by enhancing the Lactobaccillaceae family of bacteria within the gut and reduces the possibilities of colonization of the gut by other opportunistic bacterial species. The study demonstrated that Kombucha is enriched with diverse microbial population with probiotic value and daily intake of Kombucha may be potentially helpful in the management of diabetes, protection against renal and liver toxicity and offer gut microbiome protection.
Anti-Diabetic and Probiotic Effect of Kombucha on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats
(University of Ghana, 2019-07) Adade, E.E.
Diabetes mellitus, is a metabolic disorder caused by the inability of the beta pancreatic cells to adequately produce insulin or due to insulin resistance of cells. As a result of the increasingly high incidence of diabetes globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has set timelines and guidelines for the reduction of the risk of mortalities and morbidities associated with non-communicable diseases including diabetes, by the year 2030. However, this agenda is hinged on the availability of affordable, safe and effective alternatives for the management and treatment of these diseases. Hence, there is a need to explore other alternatives to the conventional oral anti-hyperglycemic agents driven by factors such as patient’s preference, demand among others. Kombucha is tea fermented by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY). Consumers of Kombucha have reported several anecdotal evidences of its medicinal potential. This study seeks to investigate its anti-diabetic and probiotic effect on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. It was hypothesized that Kombucha, being a complex matrix of microorganisms and nutraceuticals, would play an essential role in the management of diabetes. Molecular characterization of the microbiome of Kombucha using shotgun metagenomics (Oxford Nanopore MINION sequencing technology) showed Brettanomyces bruxellensis CBS 2499 as the most abundant species within the microbial community accounting for about 51 % of all reads. Brettanomyces anomalus, Komagataeibacter xylinus NBRC 15237, Bacillus nealsonii AAU1, Zygosaccharomyces bailii CLIB 213, Acetobacter, Gluconobacter and over 300 other genera and species of microorganisms including archaea and viruses were also detected using a combination of REFSEQ and One Codex data bases (OXCDB). In-vivo experiment was used to evaluate the anti-diabetic property, safety and gut microbiome changes of Kombucha. perform better than the conventional antidiabetic drugs, metformin and glibenclamide in lowering the fasting blood glucose (FBG) of the diabetic rats. Daily administration of 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of freeze-dried Kombucha tea demonstrated a 5 fold reduction in FBG (p<0.05) and 40% and 50% respective increases in body weight of the alloxan-induced diabetic rats compared to the diabetic control (DC). Histological analysis, shows Kombucha enhances pancreas regeneration and hence the concomitant increase in insulin secretion as demonstrated in the study. Serum lipid profiling showed 100mg/kg Kombucha treatment increases the levels of total cholesterol (16%), high density lipoproteins (HDL) (13%) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) (10%) but conversely reduces triglyceride level (17%) compared to the DC (p>0.05). Further analyses demonstrated that Kombucha decreases the relative organ (liver and kidney) to body weight ratio in treated animals. In addition, Kombucha was able to reduce significantly the elevated levels of liver enzymes such as Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) as well as renal toxicity indices, creatinine and urea in treated animals. Histology of the kidney and liver also showed that Kombucha has no adverse effect on the morphology and cellular integrity of these organs suggesting its hepatoprotective and renal protective potentials. Urinanalysis also showed reduction of glucose in urine for the 100 mg/kg Kombucha-treated animals. Additionally, Kombucha protects the gut microbiome, most significantly by enhancing the Lactobaccillaceae family of bacteria within the gut and reduces the possibilities of colonization of the gut by other opportunistic bacterial species. The study demonstrated that Kombucha is enriched with diverse microbial population with probiotic value and daily intake of Kombucha may be potentially helpful in the management of diabetes, protection against renal and liver toxicity and offer gut microbiome protection.
Anti-Diabetic And Probiotic Effect Of Kombucha On Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats
(2019-07) Adade, E.E.
Diabetes mellitus, is a metabolic disorder caused by the inability of the beta pancreatic cells to adequately produce insulin or due to insulin resistance of cells. As a result of the increasingly high incidence of diabetes globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has set timelines and guidelines for the reduction of the risk of mortalities and morbidities associated with non-communicable diseases including diabetes, by the year 2030. However, this agenda is hinged on the availability of affordable, safe and effective alternatives for the management and treatment of these diseases. Hence, there is a need to explore other alternatives to the conventional oral anti-hyperglycemic agents driven by factors such as patient’s preference, demand among others. Kombucha is tea fermented by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY). Consumers of Kombucha have reported several anecdotal evidences of its medicinal potential. This study seeks to investigate its anti-diabetic and probiotic effect on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. It was hypothesized that Kombucha, being a complex matrix of microorganisms and nutraceuticals, would play an essential role in the management of diabetes. Molecular characterization of the microbiome of Kombucha using shotgun metagenomics (Oxford Nanopore MINION sequencing technology) showed Brettanomyces bruxellensis CBS 2499 as the most abundant species within the microbial community accounting for about 51 % of all reads. Brettanomyces anomalus, Komagataeibacter xylinus NBRC 15237, Bacillus nealsonii AAU1, Zygosaccharomyces bailii CLIB 213, Acetobacter, Gluconobacter and over 300 other genera and species of microorganisms including archaea and viruses were also detected using a combination of REFSEQ and One Codex data bases (OXCDB). In-vivo experiment was used to evaluate the anti-diabetic property, safety and gut microbiome changes of Kombucha. Kombucha was found to perform better than the conventional antidiabetic drugs, metformin and glibenclamide in lowering the fasting blood glucose (FBG) of the diabetic rats. Daily administration of 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of freeze-dried Kombucha tea demonstrated a 5 fold reduction in FBG (p<0.05) and 40% and 50% respective increases in body weight of the alloxan-induced diabetic rats compared to the diabetic control (DC). Histological analysis, shows Kombucha enhances pancreas regeneration and hence the concomitant increase in insulin secretion as demonstrated in the study. Serum lipid profiling showed 100mg/kg Kombucha treatment increases the levels of total cholesterol (16%), high density lipoproteins (HDL) (13%) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) (10%) but conversely reduces triglyceride level (17%) compared to the DC (p>0.05). Further analyses demonstrated that Kombucha decreases the relative organ (liver and kidney) to body weight ratio in treated animals. In addition, Kombucha was able to reduce significantly the elevated levels of liver enzymes such as Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) as well as renal toxicity indices, creatinine and urea in treated animals. Histology of the kidney and liver also showed that Kombucha has no adverse effect on the morphology and cellular integrity of these organs suggesting its hepatoprotective and renal protective potentials. Urinanalysis also showed reduction of glucose in urine for the 100 mg/kg Kombucha-treated animals. Additionally, Kombucha protects the gut microbiome, most significantly by enhancing the Lactobaccillaceae family of bacteria within the gut and reduces the possibilities of colonization of the gut by other opportunistic bacterial species. The study demonstrated that Kombucha is enriched with diverse microbial population with probiotic value and daily intake of Kombucha may be potentially helpful in the management of diabetes, protection against renal and liver toxicity and offer gut microbiome protection.
Anti-Diabetic and Probiotic Effect of Kombucha on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats
(University of Ghana, 2019-07) Adade, E.E.
Diabetes mellitus, is a metabolic disorder caused by the inability of the beta pancreatic cells to adequately produce insulin or due to insulin resistance of cells. As a result of the increasingly high incidence of diabetes globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has set timelines and guidelines for the reduction of the risk of mortalities and morbidities associated with non-communicable diseases including diabetes, by the year 2030. However, this agenda is hinged on the availability of affordable, safe and effective alternatives for the management and treatment of these diseases. Hence, there is a need to explore other alternatives to the conventional oral anti-hyperglycemic agents driven by factors such as patient’s preference, demand among others. Kombucha is tea fermented by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts (SCOBY). Consumers of Kombucha have reported several anecdotal evidences of its medicinal potential. This study seeks to investigate its anti-diabetic and probiotic effect on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. It was hypothesized that Kombucha, being a complex matrix of microorganisms and nutraceuticals, would play an essential role in the management of diabetes. Molecular characterization of the microbiome of Kombucha using shotgun metagenomics (Oxford Nanopore MINION sequencing technology) showed Brettanomyces bruxellensis CBS 2499 as the most abundant species within the microbial community accounting for about 51 % of all reads. Brettanomyces anomalus, Komagataeibacter xylinus NBRC 15237, Bacillus nealsonii AAU1, Zygosaccharomyces bailii CLIB 213, Acetobacter, Gluconobacter and over 300 other genera and species of microorganisms including archaea and viruses were also detected using a combination of REFSEQ and One Codex data bases (OXCDB). In-vivo experiment was used to evaluate the anti-diabetic property, safety and gut microbiome changes of Kombucha. Kombucha was found to perform better than the conventional antidiabetic drugs, metformin and glibenclamide in lowering the fasting blood glucose (FBG) of the diabetic rats. Daily administration of 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of freeze-dried Kombucha tea demonstrated a 5 fold reduction in FBG (p<0.05) and 40% and 50% respective increases in body weight of the alloxan-induced diabetic rats compared to the diabetic control (DC). Histological analysis, shows Kombucha enhances pancreas regeneration and hence the concomitant increase in insulin secretion as demonstrated in the study. Serum lipid profiling showed 100mg/kg Kombucha treatment increases the levels of total cholesterol (16%), high density lipoproteins (HDL) (13%) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) (10%) but conversely reduces triglyceride level (17%) compared to the DC (p>0.05). Further analyses demonstrated that Kombucha decreases the relative organ (liver and kidney) to body weight ratio in treated animals. In addition, Kombucha was able to reduce significantly the elevated levels of liver enzymes such as Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) as well as renal toxicity indices, creatinine and urea in treated animals. Histology of the kidney and liver also showed that Kombucha has no adverse effect on the morphology and cellular integrity of these organs suggesting its hepatoprotective and renal protective potentials. Urinanalysis also showed reduction of glucose in urine for the 100 mg/kg Kombucha-treated animals. Additionally, Kombucha protects the gut microbiome, most significantly by enhancing the Lactobaccillaceae family of bacteria within the gut and reduces the possibilities of colonization of the gut by other opportunistic bacterial species. The study demonstrated that Kombucha is enriched with diverse microbial population with probiotic value and daily intake of Kombucha may be potentially helpful in the management of diabetes, protection against renal and liver toxicity and offer gut microbiome protection.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity And The Mechanism Of Action Of Morinda Lucida Benth
(University of Ghana, 2016-12) Ayertey, F.
A commonly used medicinal plant in African folk medicine for the treatment of various diseases including inflammation is Morinda lucida Benth. However, scientific data supporting its antiinflammatory activity is scarce. In the current study, the anti-inflammatory activity of the hydroethanolic leaf extract of Morinda lucida Benth (HEML) was assessed using carrageenaninduced paw edema in female Sprague-Dawley rats (SDRs). The potential mode of action of HEML was determined by assessing its effect on the levels of PGE2, NO, IL-1β, TNF-α and IL- 10, and also expressional levels of COX-2 and iNOS in RAW 264.7 cells in vitro. Its phytochemical constituents were determined by standard methods, and its antioxidant activity was investigated by DPPH free radical scavenging assay. The ability of HEML to significantly reduce rat paw edema caused by carrageenan demonstrated its anti-inflammatory activity. HEML also inhibited paw edema induced by histamine or serotonin, and further suppressed LPSinduced fever in the SDRs, which indicates that both early and late phases of acute inflammation were affected by the extract. Persistence of the late phase mediators may plunge the organism into a chronic state of inflammation. Results obtained through the determination of levels of PGE2, NO, IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-10 in culture supernatant of LPS-activated RAW 264.7 cells showed that HEML reduced NO and PGE2 concentrations by downregulating iNOS expression but not COX-2. It also suppressed the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α possibly by boosting levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. HEML contained saponins, reducing sugars, polyphenolics including flavonoids. It possesses antioxidant activity, which may be due to its polyphenolic content, particularly flavonoids. The current findings provide evidence-based scientific data to support the anecdotal use of M. lucida as treatment agent for inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory Medicinal Plants as Anti-Oxidants and Inhibitors of Proinflammatory Eicosanoid Biosynthesis
(University of Ghana, 2001-05) Amponsah-Manager, K.; Addy, M.E.; Nyarko, A.K.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology
Arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism that leads to the production of both anti- and pro-inflammatory eicosanoids is a standard assay used to investigate the basis for the therapeutic action of anti-inflammatory medicinal plants. Earlier investigations have established the efficacy of some herbal preparations in terms of their ability to increase the amounts of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. Desmodium adscendens and Parkitina sp. ('Tina A' ) increased PGE2 and PGI2 synthesis and inhibited phospholipase A2 activity while Thonningia sanguinea decreased the release of histamine and slow reacting substances of anaphylaxis (SRA-S). So far none of these extracts has shown any significant effect on thromboxane (TX) synthesis. The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of four plant extracts, D. adscendens, Tina A, T. sanguinea and L. multi flora in decreasing the amounts of the pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, TXB2 and cysteinyl leukotrienes (cyst.LT), and their antioxidant properties to act as anti-oxidants. Isolated guinea pig lungs perfused via the trachea were used as a model to study the release and inhibition of the release of the TXB2 and cyst. LTs by the extracts. The organs were perfused with Kreb's solution with and without the plant extracts and TXB2 and cyst.LT released were estimated by an ELISA. There were significant decreases in the amounts of TX B2 and cyst.LT released from lungs perfused with the extract of 'Tina A' or T. sanguinea and lungs from animals treated with 'Tina A'. Generally, the treatment of the animals with the extract decreased the release of TX more than LTs, while perfusion of the isolated lungs (i.e. short term treatment) had more effect on cyst.LT than TX. The effects of D. adscendens, 'Tina A’, L. multiflora and T. sanguinea on the in vitro synthesis of TXB2 using blood platelet microsomes were investigated. Microsomes for this study were prepared from blood platelets. Except L. multiflora, for which higher concentration showed minimum effects on TXB2 synthesis, there was a concentration-dependent inhibition of TXB2 by all the extracts. The effect of T. sanguinea became significant at a relatively higher concentration compared to that of D. adscendens or 'Tina A'. At the highest concentration of 100ug/ml, D. adscendens, 'Tina A’ and T. sanguinea caused 81%, 81.6% and 87.5% decreases respectively in the amounts of TXB2 synthesized. The effects of the extracts on hydroxyl radical generation and total and watersoluble phenolic content were determined. There was a concentration-dependent inhibition of hydroxyl generation by all the extracts. Large amounts of phenolic compounds were identified in all the extracts. For 'Tina A', 74% of the total phenols was water soluble while T. sanguinea which gave the highest amount of total phenols had 31% being water soluble. There was a positive correlation between total phenolic content and inhibition of hydroxyl radical generation. T. sanguinea and D. adscendens which had the highest and lowest amounts of total phenols respectively, showed the highest and lowest inhibition of hydroxyl radical generations respectively at all concentrations studied. These findings suggest that the inhibition of both synthesis/release of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids and generation of reactive oxygen species by the plant extracts studied validates their use in folk medicine in the management of asthma and other inflammatory disorders.
Antimicrobial Interactions during the Fermentation of Cassava Dough into Agbelima
(University of Ghana, 2000-11) Siaw, M.E.; Sakyi-Dawson, E.; Amoa-Awua, W.K.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences , School of Biological Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Food Science
The microbial bioprocesses, which occur during the fermentation of cassava dough into agbelima cause considerable changes that affect its organoleptic properties, nutritional value and also enhances the microbial safety of the food. Fermentation of cassava dough into agbelima involves activities of different groups of microorganisms, which result in the production of a sour dough with smooth texture. The microorganisms include Bacillus spp. mainly Bacillus subtilis, Yeast –Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis, Zygosaccharomyces spp. and lactic acid bacteria mainly Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus brevis. The interactions within and between the different types of microorganisms were studied using the Agar Well Diffusion Assay method. Nearly all lactic acid bacteria isolated at the end of agbelima fermentation inhibited those, which were present at the start of fermentation. Three out of 10 isolates of Bacillus spp. tested were inhibited by all 20 isolates of lactic acid bacteria tested but these lactic acid bacteria inhibited none of the yeasts. Three out of 10 Bacillus spp., which was all Bacillus subtilis, inhibited growth of yeasts. Twelve isolates of Lactobacillus plantarum inhibited bacteriocin indicator organisms, namely Lactobacillus sake and Listeria monocytogenes. When supernatants of L. plantarum isolates were neutralized inhibitory effect of the isolates were lost on Lactobacillus sake and Listeria monocytogenes therefore none of the isolates studied tested positive for bacteriocin production. The growth patterns and acid production of some selected Lactobacillus plantarum isolates were also investigated using batch fermentation in a fermentor. The growth pattern of Lactobacillus plantarum isolates (LAB 9, LAB 6, LP 11 and LP 3) corresponded with increases observed in titratable acidity and decreasing pH of the agbelima. Acid production was fastest in Lactobacillus plantarum isolate-LAB 9. In investigating the microbiological safety of cassava dough-agbelima, pure cultures of enteric pathogens: Salmonella typhimurium 9, Salmonella enteritidis 226, Vibrio cholerae C-230, Shigella dysenteriae 2357T and Escherichia coli D2188, were inoculated into four cassava dough systems at a concentration of 6 7 10 -10 cfu per gram of cassava dough. When inoculated into spontaneously fermenting cassava dough there was a decrease in population of all the enteric pathogens from 107 to zero cfu/g after 24h of fermentation. When inoculated into 48h fermented cassava dough (pH 3.85) all the pathogens died after 4-8h. When inoculated into 48h fermented cassava dough, which had been cooked into a semi-stiff porridge the enteric pathogens disappeared between 4-8h. When inoculated into fermenting cassava dough of specific pHs between 4.40 and 3.81 depending on the pH of the dough the pathogens survived for between 2-5h. When the fermented cassava dough was neutralized the inoculated pathogens survived for 24h-48h. The decrease in population of the pathogens in the different systems also corresponds with increases observed in titratable acidity and decreasing pH of the agbelima. This indicates that the acidic condition prevailing in the agbelima is effective in preventing the growth and survival of the pathogens used. Microbial development and succession in the natural ecosystem of agbelima is therefore controlled by complex interactions, which are mainly determined by acid production
Application of Competitive Binding Assay Methods to Serum Vitamin D Levels in Health And Disease
(University of Ghana, 1979) Ahene, I.S.; Chaplin,M.F.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology.
Competitive Binding Assay methods have been used to determine the serum levels of 25- hydroxyvitamin D^ in healthy Ghanaians and patients suffering from cirrhosis of the liver and chronic renal failure. Although the assay followed fairly standard methods as used by several workers, an improvement in stability and sensitivity was obtained by the use of gelatin in the buffer; the final assay buffer being 0.02M phosphate buffer, pH 7 ,C with 0.1% gelatin. Though rachitic rat serum was used for the main part of the work, it was confirmed that normal rat serum contained the binding protein at a suitable titre for the assay as has been reported in the literature. The normal circulating levels in 47 healthy Ghanaians was 129.0 + 55.7 ng/ml sermn, 46.0 + 16.1 ng/ml*?-.t^) for 11 patients with cirrhosis of the liver and 83.5 + 82.7 ng/ml for 8 patients suffering from chronic renal failure. Both patients'lavels were significantly different from the normal mean value ( P < 0 . 0 5 ) .
The Application of Kudeme as Fermentable Modifiers in Nixtamalized Maize
(University of Ghana, 2002-12) Sablah, M.; Sefa-Dedeh, S.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Food Science
Fermentation and nixtamalization have been used to enhance the quality and nutritional value of cereals. “Kudeme” a product of microbial and biochemical disintegration of cassava was inoculated into nixtamalized maize dough and fermented, to study the influence of the addition of kudeme on the characteristics of nixtamalized maize dough. The functional and physico-chemical indices were monitored. A 4 x 5 factorial design of kudeme level by fermentation time was used in pre-testing the system and a central composite design with k = 3, then used to optimize physico-chemical and functional responses. Preliminary results indicated almost constant moisture levels of 55%, pH dropped from 8.17 to 3.90 with corresponding increase in titrable acidity from 0.0077 to 0.2160g /lOOgLA. There was no significant difference in water absorption at 25°C and 70°C, which ranged between 49.37 to 93.55%. Pasting temperatures ranged between 68.5 and 86.4°C and temperature at peak viscosity between 70.0 and 92.5°C, and these as well as viscosity, increased with increasing kudeme levels and fermentation time. Viscosity ranged between 80 to 470 BU. R2 values of indices; an indication of the degree to which variations in dependent variables were explained by independent variables for regression models ranged between 18.24 and 99.73% for biochemical responses, 11.04 to 90.76% for water absorption and swelling index, 23.34 to 85.18% for colour and 28.39 to 87.61% for 7 and 8% slurry viscosity and cooking temperatures. No lacks of fit for most models were observed. Response surface plots as well as two dimensional plots for various parameters indicated that kudeme level and duration in fermentation influenced trends in these parameters to varying increasing or decreasing orders. Particle size decreased with increasing kudeme levels. And this was believed to be the major factor influencing the outcome of other parameters studied. There were high positive correlation between kudeme level and Amylograph indices studied. Blanched kudeme was not an effective modifier, compared to roasted kudeme. The modifications of quality indices, induced by kudeme on fermentation of nixtamalized maize could be exploited to promote fineness, better physico-chemical and functional properties of nixtamalized maize, making it traditionally relevant to Africans.
The Application of Kudeme as Fermentable Modifiers in Nixtamalized Maize
(University of Ghana, 2002-12) Sablah, M.; Fermentation; nixtamalization; cereals
Fermentation and nixtamalization have been used to enhance the quality and nutritional value of cereals. “Kudeme” a product of microbial and biochemical disintegration of cassava was inoculated into nixtamalized maize dough and fermented, to study the influence of the addition of kudeme on the characteristics of nixtamalized maize dough. The functional and physico-chemical indices were monitored. A 4 x 5 factorial design of kudeme level by fermentation time was used in pre-testing the system and a central composite design with k = 3, then used to optimize physico-chemical and functional responses. Preliminary results indicated almost constant moisture levels of 55%, pH dropped from 8.17 to 3.90 with corresponding increase in titrable acidity from 0.0077 to 0.2160g /lOOgLA. There was no significant difference in water absorption at 25°C and 70°C, which ranged between 49.37 to 93.55%. Pasting temperatures ranged between 68.5 and 86.4°C and temperature at peak viscosity between 70.0 and 92.5°C, and these as well as viscosity, increased with increasing kudeme levels and fermentation time. Viscosity ranged between 80 to 470 BU. R2 values of indices; an indication of the degree to which variations in dependent variables were explained by independent variables for regression models ranged between 18.24 and 99.73% for biochemical responses, 11.04 to 90.76% for water absorption and swelling index, 23.34 to 85.18% for colour and 28.39 to 87.61% for 7 and 8% slurry viscosity and cooking temperatures. No lacks of fit for most models were observed. Response surface plots as well as two dimensional plots for various parameters indicated that kudeme level and duration in fermentation influenced trends in these parameters to varying increasing or decreasing orders. Particle size decreased with increasing kudeme levels. And this was believed to be the major factor influencing the outcome of other parameters studied. There were high positive correlation between kudeme level and Amylograph indices studied. Blanched kudeme was not an effective modifier, compared to roasted kudeme. The modifications of quality indices, induced by kudeme on fermentation of nixtamalized maize could be exploited to promote fineness, better physico-chemical and functional properties of nixtamalized maize, making it traditionally relevant to Africans.
Aspects Of The Community Ecology Of Waterbirds In Mole National Park
(University of Ghana, 2016-06) Aikins, T.K.
Mole National Park is the largest and oldest national park in Ghana. With a large number of species of birds, mammals and reptiles, the number of tourists in Mole National Park keeps increasing and therefore creating room for human disturbance in diverse ways. Using the total area count method, this study established the species of waterbirds at Mole National Park and determined the seasonal variations in their diversity and abundance in four permanent wetlands from August 2015 to February 2016. It also assessed the nature and levels of disturbance to waterbirds and determined the alert and flight initiation distances of selected species of waterbirds through daily monitoring of waterbird flushes and the conduction of flushing experiments. A total of 29 species belonging to 6 orders and 12 families were recorded of which Lana Pool had the highest proportion of the birds’ abundance (58.08 %) while Asibey Pool recording the least (6.20 %). With White-faced Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna viduata) being the most abundant species in the study area, the highest number of species (26) occurred in Haraba Pool and the least (18) at Asibey Pool. Species richness and abundance of waterbirds in Mole National Park varied between the wet and dry seasons with the dry season generally recording higher number of waterbird species richness and abundance. Waterbird at Mole National Park on the average spend 84.95 seconds per hour due to flushing. Majority of the flushes were caused by indeterminate factors (70.5 %). Average time spent in flight by a waterbird as a result of human flushing was 17.55 seconds per hour which constitute only 20.66 % of a waterbird’s average time in flight due to flushing. Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) had the longest mean AD and FID whilst Green-backed Heron (Butorides striata) and Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) respectively recorded the shortest AD and FID. Grass height, grass cover, shrub height, group size and the number of heterospecifics in a group had a significant multiple regression weight with the AD of some waterbirds. It was recommended that bird watchers should schedule their visit to the park during the dry season so as to encounter more species. When considering set-back distances in the design of path ways in Mole National Park, it should consider the alert distance of the largest species as this will help reduce disturbances of smaller ones.
Aspects of the Ecology of three Communally Breeding Bird Species on Legon Campus
(University Of Ghana, 2013-07) Acheampong, M.K.
This study compares some ecological aspects (territory size, group size, clutch size and food supply rate) of three communally breeding bird species, namely Yellow-billed Shrike (Corvinella corvina), Green Wood-hoopoe (Phoeniculus purpureus) and Brown Babbler (Turdoides plebejus), on the Legon campus of the University of Ghana. This was in response to the limited literature on communal breeding bird species despite their widespread distribution in Africa. The methodology involved direct observations and the use of the convex polygon method in the determination of the territory sizes in both the wet and dry seasons. In the wet season, a total of 245 Yellow-billed Shrike, 74 Green Wood-hoopoe and 120 Brown Babbler were recorded compared to 281 Yellow-billed Shrike, 59 Green Wood-hoopoe, and 119 Brown Babbler in the dry season. These constituted 31 territories of the Yellow-billed Shrike, 11 territories of the Green Wood-hoopoe and 14 territories of the Brown Babbler. Territorial groups generally exist throughout the year, and each group member helped defend the group’s territory and feeding of nestlings/breeding females. The mean territory sizes of the Yellow-billed Shrike were 1.11±0.51 and 1.22±0.52 hectares, the Green Wood-hoopoe were 4.17±1.92 and 3.93±1.35 hectares, and that of the Brown Babbler were 1.71±0.63 and 2.43±0.87 hectares in both the wet and dry seasons respectively. Thus, the territory sizes of all the bird species were similar except the Brown Babbler that had a significantly larger territory size in the dry season (P < 0.05). The mean group sizes of the Yellow-billed Shrike were 9.07±3.45 and 9.06±3.40, the Green Wood-hoopoe were 6.73±3.29 and 7.38±3.78, and that of the Brown Babbler were 8.57±3.50 and 8.50±3.23 in both the wet and dry seasons respectively. There was no significant difference in the group sizes between the two seasons for any of the three species (p > 0.05).
Aspects of the Structure and Sustainability of the Fisheries in the Cross River Estuary of Nigeria-the Role of Community-Based Management
(University of Ghana, 2015-07) Antigha, A.A.; Armah, A. K.; Nyarko, E.; University of Ghana,College of Basic and Applied Sciences School of Biological Sciences Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences
This study focused on aspects of the structure and sustainability of the fisheries in the Cross River estuary with a view to addressing the unsustainable fishing activities in the Cross River estuary. The physicochemical characteristics of water were analyzed in order to determine the quality of water and health status of fishes in the study area. These included surface temperature, pH, DO, turbidity, salinity, alkalinity, phosphate and nitrates. The catch rates and catch composition of the multispecies gillnet fishery in the estuary, exploitation rates, sizes of fishes and socioeconomic factors were also investigated in order to determine their vulnerability to human and environmental factors. The water quality of the area showed a significant variation in turbidity at the locations of study, 52.2 NTU at Esuk Anansa, 30.3 NTU at Esuk Okon, and 21.8 NTU at Esuk Anantigha, with a range of 21.8 - 52.2. However, the general water quality was within the tolerable limit of fish during the study period. The mean weight of monthly catches sampled averaged 21.2 kg (range 15.3 kg to 27.0 kg).The mean CPUE was 7.1 kg/boat/trip. The catch composition revealed that Pseudotolithus elongatus accounted for 56.69%, by weight, Ethmalosa fimbriata was 30.28% by weight, while Chrysicthys nigrodigitatus was 7.53% by weight. The results of the study showed that these species are being threatened as a result of unsustainable fishing methods leading to harvesting of small fishes mostly between 10 and 15cm of length. The socioeconomic status of artisanal fishermen, traders and mangrove loggers in the estuary was determined with the view of updating knowledge on the socioeconomic indices, fishing gears, prime catches of the fishes in the area, in order to suggest management measures for the fishery and ecosystem of the area. The study recommends the introduction of community-based coastal resource management approach for the sustainability of the fisheries and the ecosystem of the area.

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