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Introduction: Chironomidae (Diptera) is the most widespread and abundant aquatic insect family in freshwater ecosystems. Chironomids are considered good indicators of water quality but are seldom identified at the genus level in broad spatial scale studies. Objective: To identify environmental conditions associated with chironomids in an altitudinal gradient. Methods: We compared ecoregions, river types, and seasons, for chironomids in neotropical streams and rivers (18 river sites; 2014-2018; Yungas rainforest and Western Chaco dry forest, Argentina). We used non-metric multidimensional scaling, dissimilarity, envfit analysis and rank-abundance curves. Results: Chironomid "assemblages''matched both ecoregions and river types. However, ecoregions presented a better fit with species composition. The stenothermal taxa of Orthocladiinae were dominant at high elevations and the eurythermal Chironominae in lowland rivers. Altitude, water temperature and conductivity were important. Seasonal differences were smaller than ecoregional differences. Conclusions: Ecoregions, altitude, water temperature and conductivity correlated with chironomid communities. Orthocladiinae were dominant at high elevations and Chironominae in lowland rivers.
Introducción: Chironomidae (Diptera) es la familia de insectos acuáticos más extendida y abundante en los ecosistemas dulceacuícolas. Los quironómidos se consideran buenos indicadores de la calidad del agua, pero rara vez se identifican a nivel de género en estudios de amplia escala espacial. Objetivo: Identificar las condiciones ambientales asociadas a los quironómidos en un gradiente altitudinal. Métodos: Comparamos ecorregiones, tipos de ríos y estaciones para quironómidos en arroyos y ríos neotropicales (18 sitios en ríos; 2014-2018; en un bosque tropical de Yungas y un bosque seco del Chaco Occidental, Argentina). Utilizamos escalamiento no métrico multidimensional, disimilitud, análisis de envfit y curvas de rango-abundancia. Resultados: Los "ensamblajes''de quironómidos coincidieron tanto con las ecorregiones como con los tipos de ríos. Sin embargo, las ecorregiones presentaron un mejor ajuste con la composición de especies. Los taxones estenotérmicos de Orthocladiinae fueron dominantes en las elevaciones altas y los euritermales de Chironominae en los ríos de las tierras bajas. La altitud, la temperatura del agua y la conductividad fueron importantes. Las diferencias estacionales fueron menores que las diferencias ecorregionales. Conclusiones: las ecorregiones, la altitud, la temperatura del agua y la conductividad se correlacionaron con las comunidades de quironómidos. Orthocladiinae fue dominante en los sitios altos y Chironominae en los ríos de tierras bajas.
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Abstract Lotic environments are subjected to the impacts of human activities in an intense way in urban regions and one of the ways to assist in the environmental diagnosis is through the knowledge of the composition of bioindicator organisms, including microalgae. The objective of this work was to qualitatively characterize the Chlorophyceae Class Wille, providing descriptions and meristic data of the specimens as well as the environmental conditions in which the taxa were recorded. Water and phytoplankton samplings were carried out quarterly in 2020, in nine supply rivers, distributed in three river basins in the western region of Paraná (Paraná III basin, Piquiri basin and Baixo Iguaçu basin). The studied rivers were classified as oligotrophic or mesotrophic and the taxa were mostly rare. Thirty-six taxa belonging to the Chlorophyceae class were recorded, distributed in five families: Hydrodictyaceae Dumortier, Neochloridaceae Ettl & Komárek, Radiococcaceae Fott ex P.C.Silva, Scenedesmaceae Oltmanns, Selenastraceae Blackman & Tansley. These taxa have mainly cenobial representatives, with about 70% of the individuals in this thallus configuration, followed by 22% colonies and 8% unicellular thallus. Among the identified species, five occurred only in mesotrophic sites, warning for environments with tendencies to elevate their trophic, since they are genera previously associated with these conditions. Ten new citations were recorded for the State of Paraná, namely: Pseudopediastrum boryanum var. longicorne (Reinsch) P.M.Tsarenko, Radiococcus skujae I.Kostikov, T.Darienko, A.Lukesová & L.Hoffmann, Desmodesmus perforatus (Lemmermann) E.Hegewald, Desmodesmus subspicatus (Chodat) E.Hegewald & A.W.F.Schmidt, Scenedesmus indicus Philipose ex Hegewald, Engelberg & Paschma, Ankistrodesmus bernardii Komárek, Monoraphidium capricornutum (Printz) Nygaard, Monoraphidium caribeum Hindák, Raphidocelis danubiana var. elegans (Playfair) Taşkin & Alp, Selenastrum rinoi Komárek & Comas. Taxonomic studies, such as this one, are an important tool for understanding the flora, and in addition to contributing to the registration of species in aquatic ecosystems, they serve as a basis for ecological studies and other approaches used to preserve biodiversity in these places.
Resumo Ambientes lóticos são ecossistemas muito vulneráveis aos impactos das atividades humanas, especialmente em regiões urbanas, e uma das formas para auxiliar no diagnóstico ambiental é utilizando o conhecimento da composição dos organismos bioindicadores, dentre eles as microalgas. O objetivo foi caracterizar qualitativamente as microalgas enquadradas na Classe Chlorophyceae Wille, fornecendo descrições e dados merísticos dos espécimes bem como as condições ambientais em que os táxons foram registrados. Foram realizadas amostragens de água e de fitoplâncton trimestralmente no ano de 2020, em nove rios de abastecimento, distribuídos em três bacias hidrográficas da região oeste do Paraná (bacia do Paraná III, bacia do Piquiri e bacia do Baixo Iguaçu). Os rios estudados foram enquadrados como oligotróficos ou mesotróficos e os táxons apresentaram em sua maioria ocorrência rara. Foram registrados 36 táxons pertencentes a classe Chlorophyceae distribuídos em cinco famílias: Hydrodictyaceae Dumortier, Neochloridaceae Ettl & Komárek, Radiococcaceae Fott ex P.C.Silva, Scenedesmaceae Oltmanns, Selenastraceae Blackman & Tansley. Esses táxons possuem representantes principalmente cenobiais, apresentando cerca de 70% dos indivíduos nessa configuração de talo, seguido por 22% de colônias e 8% de talos unicelulares. Entre as espécies identificadas, cinco ocorreram somente em locais mesotróficos, advertindo para ambientes com tendências a elevar sua trofia, visto que são gêneros já associados anteriormente a essas condições. Foram registradas 10 novas citações para o Estado do Paraná, sendo estas: Pseudopediastrum boryanum var. longicorne (Reinsch) P.M.Tsarenko, Radiococcus skujae I.Kostikov, T.Darienko, A.Lukesová & L.Hoffmann, Desmodesmus perforatus (Lemmermann) E.Hegewald, Desmodesmus subspicatus (Chodat) E.Hegewald & A.W.F.Schmidt, Scenedesmus indicus Philipose ex Hegewald, Engelberg & Paschma, Ankistrodesmus bernardii Komárek, Monoraphidium capricornutum (Printz) Nygaard, Monoraphidium caribeum Hindák, Raphidocelis danubiana var. elegans (Playfair) Taşkin & Alp, Selenastrum rinoi Komárek & Comas. Trabalhos taxonômicos, como este, são uma importante ferramenta para o conhecimento da flora, e além de contribuir no registro das espécies nos ecossitemas aquáticos, servem como base para estudos ecológicos e demais abordagens utilizadas na preservação da biodiversidade nesses locais.
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Abstract Chira River is located on the north coast of Peru. The scant information of the ichthyofauna from coastal drainages from Peru is noteworthy. The aim of this study is to characterize the ichthyofauna along the Chira River basin in terms of diversity and altitudinal range distribution. The material examined belongs to the Ichthyological collection of the Natural History Museum (MUSM). The diversity of fishes is composed of 27 species belonging to 19 families and ten orders. Siluriformes and Characiformes were the most diverse, consisting of 22% (six species) for each one. Five species are new records for the Chira River (three natives and two non-natives). Six marine species and seven exotic species were recorded as well. The altitudinal distribution patterns for all species were registered. This study increases the known diversity of freshwater fishes from Pacific Drainage Rivers in Peru, and it could be used for management and conservation plans.
Resumen El río Chira está ubicado en la costa norte del Perú. La escasa información de la ictiofauna de las cuencas costeras del Perú es notable. El objetivo de este estudio es caracterizar la ictiofauna en la cuenca del río Chira en términos de diversidad y rango de distribución altitudinal. El material examinado pertenece a la colección ictiológica del Museo de Historia Natural (MUSM). La diversidad de peces está compuesta por 27 especies pertenecientes a 19 familias y 10 órdenes. Cinco especies son nuevos registros para el río Chira (tres nativas y dos no nativas). Fueron registradas seis especies marinas y siete especies exóticas. Este estudio incrementa el conocimiento de la diversidad de peces de las cuencas costeras en Perú, y puede ser usado para planes de manejo y conservación.
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RESUMEN Las emisiones de mercurio (Hg) a partir de actividades de minería afectan los recursos pesqueros, los cuales son importantes en la alimentación proteínica de las poblaciones humanas. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar las concentraciones de MeHg (metilmercurio) en Prochilodus magdalenae (Bocachico) y Hoplias malabaricus (Moncholo) en hábitats continentales de la región de La Mojana y en la parte baja del río Cauca (Norte de Colombia), sitios que han sido afectados por actividades de minería aurífera. Un total de 160 ejemplares fueron colectados para su respectivo análisis, 130 en el grupo expuesto: Mojana 1 (n=36), Mojana 2 (n=56) y El Bajo Cauca (n=38), y n=30 en el grupo control. Se realizaron las determinaciones de MeHg mediante análisis directo con un Analizador Directo de Mercurio DMA 80, cromatografía líquida y espectrometría de absorción atómica. Las concentraciones de MeHg encontradas en muestras de tejido del músculo dorsal de los peces procedentes de los lugares expuestos, fueron significativamente mayores comparados con el grupo control (p < 0.05), siendo la región del Bajo Cauca la más afectada por altas concentraciones de MeHg. Los resultados indican que la presencia de MeHg en los peces es consecuencia de las actividades de minería aurífera ampliamente desarrolladas en la zona. Estas concentraciones MeHg representan un riesgo mortal para la salud humana y animal.
ABSTRACT Mercury (Hg) pollution from mining activities influence fishing resources, which are important for human populations' nutrition. The aim of this research was to explore MeHg (methylmercury) concentrations in Prochilodus magdalenae (bocachico) and Hoplias malabaricus (moncholo) in freshwater habitats of the Mojana region and in the Bajo Cauca river (Northern Colombia), which have been affected by gold mining activities. A total of 160 individuals were collected, 130 in the exposed group: Mojana 1 (36), Mojana 2 (56) and El Bajo Cauca (38); and 30 individuals in the control group (Cereté). After fish sampling, MeHg determinations were done by direct analysis with a Direct Mercury Analyser DMA 80, liquid chromatography, and atomic absorption spectrometry. The results show that MeHg found in the dorsal muscle tissue is significantly higher than in the control group (p < 0.05), the Bajo Cauca region being the most affected due to the high concentrations of MeHg. The results show that the presence of MeHg in fish may be related to gold mining activities, which are widely developed in the area. The toxic concentrations found represent a risk to human health.
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ABSTRACT Located in areas of difficult access, the riverside population of the upper Amazon River has a great demand for health care, whether in the scope of basic health promotion or in general or specialized medical care, surgical procedures, dental and pharmaceutical care. Taking this to consideration, the Barco Hospital Papa Francisco project was conceived and implemented, which aims to provide health care to riverside communities through expeditions that safely transfer health resources to populations located on the banks of the river. Having participated in one of the expeditions, it was possible to carry out a survey of data regarding the attendance and writing of a personal report on the impact on the professional activity. The expedition allowed the performance of a large number of surgical procedures in a condensed period, covering a wide variety of technical approaches essential to the performance of the general surgeon, among them, we can mention inguinal and incisional hernioplasties, umbilical and inguinal herniorrhaphy, postectomy and tubal ligation, lipoma excision, sebaceous cyst excision, nevi excision, among others (data available in the vessels Wareline® system).
RESUMO Localizadas em áreas de difícil acesso, a população ribeirinha do alto rio Amazonas apresenta grande demanda assistencial de saúde, seja ela no âmbito de promoção de saúde básica seja no atendimento médico geral ou especializado, procedimentos cirúrgicos, atendimentos odontológicos e farmacêutico. Frente a isso, foi idealizado e concretizado o projeto do Barco Hospital Papa Francisco, que visa o atendimento de saúde às comunidades ribeirinhas através de expedições que deslocam os recursos de saúde de forma segura até as populações situadas às margens do rio. Tendo participado de uma das expedições, foi possível realizar levantamento de dados referente aos atendimentos e redação de relato pessoal sobre o impacto na atividade profissional. A expedição proporcionou a realização de grande número de procedimentos cirúrgicos em um período condensado, abrangendo ampla variedade de abordagens técnicas imprescindíveis à atuação do cirurgião geral, entre elas, pode-se citar hernioplastias inguinal e incisional, herniorrafia umbilical e inguinal, postectomia e laqueadura, exérese de lipomas, exérese de cisto sebáceo, exérese de nevos, entre outras (dados disponíveis em sistema Wareline® da embarcação).
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RESUMEN Los macroinvertebrados acuáticos son bien conocidos como bioindicadores de la calidad del agua. En Colombia, los estudios sobre este tema se han hecho principalmente a nivel taxonómico de familia. En este trabajo se analizan las respuestas en abundancia, riqueza y diversidad de los dípteros identificados a nivel de género en ríos altoandinos (río Bogotá y río Fucha), en épocas de aguas bajas y aguas altas. Los especímenes se recolectaron con tres métodos: red Surber, red de mano y lavado de rocas. La temperatura promedio fue de 12,9 °C y la saturación de oxígeno estuvo cerca del 100 % o más, con excepción del tramo bajo del río Bogotá antes de Villapinzón. Se colectaron 13 690 dípteros pertenecientes a diez familias y 40 géneros. La riqueza taxonómica fue alta, con una mayor variación en los tramos bajos de las dos corrientes. Las subfamilias de Chironomidae fueron las más abundantes. El análisis de correspondencia canónica (ACC) mostró que los Orthocladiinae se asociaron con la conductividad; el género Gigantodax (Simuliidae) no mostró una relación clara con ninguna variable; por el contrario, el género Simulium se vinculó con el caudal. En términos generales, la asociación entre taxones y variables ambientales fue más clara para los géneros que para las familias, pero no fue suficientemente robusta. Se sugiere que para encontrar un mayor grado de asociación biota-ambiente, es necesario realizar los análisis a nivel de especie, considerando las variaciones locales y temporales.
ABSTRACT Aquatic macroinvertebrates are recognized as bioindicators of water quality. In Colombia, the studies have mainly been addressed by the family taxonomic level. This work analyzes the responses in abundance, richness, and diversity of the Diptera at the genus level in high Andean rivers (Bogotá River and Fucha River), in periods of low and high waters. The specimens were collected with three methods: Surber net, hand net, and rock washing. The average temperature was 12.9 °C and oxygen saturation was close to 100 % or more, except for the lower section of the Bogotá River, before the Villapinzón town. 13 690 Diptera were collected from ten families and 40 genera. Taxonomic richness was high with the greatest variation in the lower sections of the two streams. The Chironomidae subfamilies were the most abundant. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed that Orthocladiinae were associated with water conductivity; the Gigantodax genus (Simuliidae) did not show a clear relationship with any variable; conversely, the genus Simulium was linked to the caudal. In general terms, the association between taxa and environmental variables was clearer for genera than for families, but it was not robust enough. It is suggested that to find a higher degree of biota-environment association, it is necessary to carry out analyzes at the species level, considering local and temporal variations.
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RESUMO O efluente sanitário bruto é um dos responsáveis pela poluição de rios urbanos, e a instalação de estações de tratamento de efluentes (ETE) exige uma avaliação comparativa do comportamento desses rios antes e depois da ETE. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar a qualidade da água do rio São Domingos (RSD) após o início da operação da ETE Catanduva (SP), cujas eficiências médias de remoção foram: demanda bioquímica de oxigênio (93,71%), nitrogênio amoniacal (73,12%), fósforo total (25,70%), turbidez (85,16%) e ST (31,75%). Foram utilizados 768 dados coletados pela Companhia Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo a montante e a jusante de Catanduva (SP). Obras de dragagem realizadas durante o período avaliado foram responsáveis por um significativo decréscimo temporário na qualidade da água do RSD em Catanduva. Após dois anos do início da operação da ETE, houve significativa melhoria na qualidade do RSD, com redução das concentrações médias de DBO (de 20,97 para 5,73 mg.L−1), nitrogênio amoniacal (de 3,84 para 0,99 mg.L−1) e Escherichia coli (de 105 para 104 UFC.100 mL−1) e aumento da concentração de oxigênio dissolvido (de 0,90 para 3,12 mg.L−1). A análise de componentes principais indicou que a qualidade do rio a jusante de Catanduva está-se aproximando da boa qualidade verificada a montante da cidade. Esses dados sugerem que o RSD pode futuramente ser classificado como Classe 3 (Resolução do Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente — CONAMA n° 357/05) e até ser utilizado para abastecimento humano, reduzindo a elevada demanda de água subterrânea na região.
ABSTRACT Non-treated wastewater is responsible for the pollution of urban rivers, and it is mandatory to evaluate the behavior of these rivers before and after the construction of a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). The aim of this study was to evaluate the water quality of São Domingos River (SDR) after the start of the Catanduva/SP WWTP operation, whose average removal efficiencies were: biochemical oxygen demand (BOD; 93.71%), ammonia nitrogen (73.12%), total phosphorus (25.70%), turbidity (85.16%), and total solids (31.75%). We used 768 data collected upstream and downstream of the city of Catanduva/SP, previously analyzed by CETESB (state environmental agency). Dredging works carried out during the evaluated period were responsible for a significant temporary worsening in the water quality of the SDR in Catanduva. Two years after the beginning of the Catanduva WWTP, there was a significant improvement in SDR water quality, with a reduction in the average concentrations of BOD (20.97 to 5.73 mg.L−1), ammonia nitrogen (3.84 for 0.99 mg.L−1), and Escherichia coli (105 to 104 CFU.100 mL−1) were reduced; and DO concentration (0.90 to 3.12 mg.L−1) increased. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated that the water quality of the river downstream of Catanduva is approaching the same quality verified upstream of the city. These data suggest that SDR may be considered a Class 3 river (Resolution CONAMA 357/05) in the future and may even be used for human supply, reducing the high demand for groundwater in the region.
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ABSTRACT The genus Cichla is a highly diverse group, with 16 species already described. Externally, some species are very similar and discriminating between them may be very difficult. Nevertheless, discrimination of fish stocks is essential for management purposes. Morphometric analyses of otoliths have been successfully used to distinguish species and fish stocks, especially in marine environments. This study evaluated whether sagittal otolith shape can be used to discriminate among the species Cichla temensis, C. monoculus, and C. orinocensis, as well as within populations of C. temensis in rivers of the Amazon. Shape indices and Fourier coefficients were used to describe the shape of the otoliths. Among the groups of species, the morphology of the sagittal otolith of C. temensis was totally distinct from the species C. monoculus and C. orinocensis. While among populations of C. temensis, individuals from the Negro and Jatapú Rivers were different, regardless of the methods used. These results confirm the ability to differentiate species and populations by using the morphology of otoliths. However, more research is needed to verify the role of genetic versus environmental and biotic effects, and thus be able to explain the discrimination observed in otoliths.
RESUMO O gênero Cichla é bastante diverso, com 16 espécies descritas. Algumas espécies são externamente muito similares e sua discriminação pode ser bastante difícil. Ao mesmo tempo, a discriminação de estoques pesqueiros é essencial para propostas de manejo. Análises morfométricas em otólitos têm sido utilizadas com sucesso para a distinção de espécies e estoques pesqueiros, principalmente em ambientes marinhos. Este estudo avaliou se o formato do otólito sagittal pode ser utilizado para discriminar entre espécies Cichla temensis, C. monoculus e C. orinocensis, bem como dentro de populações de C. temensis em diferentes rios amazônicos. Índices de forma e coeficientes de Fourier foram utilizados para descrever a forma dos otólitos. Dentre as espécies, a morfologia do otólito sagittal do C. temensis mostrou ser totalmente distinta das espécies C. monoculus e C. orinocensis. Enquanto no grupo das populações de C. temensis, os indivíduos dos rios Negro e Jatapú mostraram-se diferentes independente dos métodos utilizados. Esses resultados confirmam a capacidade de diferenciação de espécies e populações através da morfologia dos otólitos. No entanto, são necessárias mais pesquisas para verificar o papel dos efeitos genéticos em comparação aos efeitos ambientais e bióticos para explicar a discriminação observada nos otólitos.
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Introduction:The importance of contraception amongst adolescents cannot be over-emphasized especially as it concerns reproductive health. Globally, these group of persons are vulnerable and engage in high risk sexual behaviour with little or no access to contraception particularly in the developing countries of the world.Aim: To determine the access to contraception amongst female adolescents in Rivers State. Methods:It was a cross sectional study of female adolescents attending holiday camp in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Questionnaires were distributed and information coded and analysed using SPSS version 22.Results:One hundred questionnaires were distributed and 89 retrieved. The mean age was 16 ± 2 years. Fifty seven (64.0%) were in secondary school while 32(36.0%) of the adolescents were undergraduates. Twelve (13.5%) were sexually active compared to 69 (77.5%) who were not sexually active, 8 (9%) were non respondents to this question. One (1.1%) of the adolescents had access to contraception while 85 (95.5%) had no access to contraception, 3 (3.3%) did not give any response as regards to access to contraception or not. The media was the most common means of information 25 (28%) on contraception.Conclusion: The study revealed that access to contraception amongst female adolescents in Port Harcourt was poor. Enlightenment programme is highly recommended to prevent unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and other adverse effects on reproductive health.
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Introduction:The primary healthcare workers (PHCWs) may be faced with a higher risk of infection of COVID-19, due to inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and lack of training on the disease control and prevention. This study was designated to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of PHCWs about COVID-19 in Rivers State, Nigeria.Original Research Article Methods:A facility cross-sectional survey was conducted involving the primary healthcare workers in Rivers State, Nigeria. The association between the KAP and demographic characteristics were tested with the Chi-square test, while the association existing among KAP were evaluated with Pearson correlation coefficient. Statistical significance was evaluated at P<0.05.Results:The proportion of respondents with good scores in knowledge, attitude, and COVID-19 related practices are 86.4% (10.66 ± 2.40), 85.0% (8.28 ± 1.94), and 97.3% (8.34 ± 1.39) respectively. Gender, occupation, and years of experience are associated with knowledge, whilst years of experience and marital status are associated with the attitude and level preventive practices; knowledge score also has significant positive linear associations with both attitude (=0.35,<0.05)and practices (=0.11,<0.05)scores towards COVID-19. Conclusion:Based on these findings, we suggest that public health education programs should be sustained, and staff should be expose to more training and workshop regarding COVID-19 preventive practices. Furthermore, adequate personnel preventive equipment should bedeployed at the primary healthcare facilities, as this will instill the right attitude and confidence in carrying out their duties without the fear of contracting the disease
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Aim: We attempted to determine the frequencyand percentage distributionof Lewis blood group antigens among indigenes of Ogoni ethnicity in Rivers State, Nigeria.Study Design:The study consisted of 101 Ogoni people, who were apparently healthy and free from transfusion transmissible infections confirmed by serological screening. Ogoniland is located along the Niger Delta Eastern edge, and to the north-east of the Imo River and Port Harcourt city. All subjects were recruited and their blood samples were collected. The presence of Lewis-a and -b (Lea/Leb) blood group was examined using Anti-Leaand Lebmonoclonal antibody, respectively (Lorne Laboratories).Results:Leaand Lebblood group was observed in 17.8%and 11.9%, respectively.Conclusion:Leaand Lebin this population was observed less frequently than those in other population previously reported. The Lewis antigen was reported to be associated with thrombotic disorders and Helicobacter pylori infection. Further studies may be directed to examine the association between Lewis blood group antigens and the risk of these conditions in Ogoni subjects
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Aim: The study was aimed at evaluating the levelsof subclinical malaria infection and haemolysis among the residents of Opobo, Rivers State, Nigeria.Study Design:A cross sectional study design was used. The subjects were grouped into males and females and comparisons were made between positive and negative subjects of the same genderand positive subjects of different gender.Place and Duration of Study:The study area wasOpobo Town in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Areaof Nigeria. The study was carried out within August 2ndto August 26th, 2019 and a total of 89 apparently healthy subjects were recruited, 35 males and 54 females, aged between 16 –70 years. Methodology:Malaria parasite identification was done by thick and thin film using Giemsa’s stain,packed cell volume was by microhaematocrit method, plasma haemoglobin concentrationand wholeblood haemoglobin concentration was determined by cyanmethaemoglobin method Results:The result revealed a total of 24.72% positivity and 75.28% negativity for malaria parasite infection. Among the males, 17.14% positivity and 82.86% negativity for malaria parasite infection were observed while that of the females was20.37% positivity and 79.63% negativity. In comparison of the studied parameters made between females infected with malaria parasites and those that were not infected with malaria parasites, there was no statistical significant difference at p<0.05 in plasma haemoglobin and percentage haemolysis. In comparison of the studied parameters between males infected with malaria parasites and those not infected with malaria parasites, there was no statistical significant difference in plasma haemoglobin and percentage haemolysis. On gender based comparison, there was also no statistical significant difference in level haemolysis.Conclusion:The study has revealed a prevalence rate of 24.72% for subclinical malaria infection and the percentage haemolysis of red blood cells in malaria infected subjects residing in Opobo Town compared to subjects without malaria parasite was not statistically significant. Based on gender difference, males were affected more than females, but the level of red blood cell haemolysis was notstatistically significant after comparison.
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Introduction: Eichhornia crassipes is a dominant aquatic plant of neotropical-river floodplains and is invasive in warm waters of different continents. Plants provide food and habitat for fish, especially Prochilodus lineatus and Gymnotus omarorum, which are relevant to subsistence fishing by local indigenous communities. Objective: In this study we describe the main traits of E. crassipes floating meadows, and analyze the abundance and composition of macroinvertebrate assemblages associated with their roots in two floodplain wetlands of the Paraná River (within the Ramsar site Wetlands Chaco) and of the Pilcomayo River (within the Pilcomayo River National Park). Methods: During spring and summer, the macroinvertebrates were collected in monospecific stands of E. crassipes with a net of 962 cm2 area and 500 µm mesh size. Leaf density, the biomass of leaves and roots, the length of leaves and roots, and the water quality were measured simultaneously. Results: Temperature, oxygen concentration, and nutrient content were significantly higher and electrical conductivity was lower in the Pilcomayo than in the Paraná floodplain. E. crassipes growing in the Pilcomayo floodplain had longer leaves and less root biomass than those found in the Paraná floodplain. The number of macroinvertebrates per 1 000 g root dry weight and per m2 was significantly different between both floodplains, but the taxon richness was similar. Non Metric Multidimensional Scaling analysis differentiated the abundance of 14 selected taxa between both floodplains, and showed a high correlation between the environmental variables and macroinvertebrate abundance. The most abundant taxonomic groups in the Paraná River floodplain were oligochaetes (Naididae), ostracods mainly Cytheridella ilosvayi and larvae of non-biting midges (Chironomidae). Two families, Hydrobiidae (Heleobia parchappii) and Chironomidae accounted for 49.3 % of the total abundance in the Pilcomayo floodplain. The prawns Macrobrachium jelskii and M. amazonicum, frequent in the Pilcomayo floodplain, were not found in the Paraná floodplain. Conclusions: The different environmental conditions in both floodplains affect the abundance, composition, and the dominance of macroinvertebrate assemblages; however, the total taxa richness was similar. The area occupied by E. crassipes in the floodplains of these rivers provides the habitat that contributes most to overall biotic diversity, which must be considered in management strategies.
Introduccion: Eichhornia crassipes es la planta acuática dominante en la planicie de inundación de los ríos tropicales y ha invadido las aguas cálidas de diferentes continentes. Las plantas proveen alimento y hábitat para los peces, especialmente Prochilodus linneatus y Gymnotus omarorum, que son relevantes para la pesca de subsistencia de las comunidades indígenas locales. Objetivo: En el presente trabajo nosotros describimos las principales características de las formaciones flotantes de E. crassipes, y analizamos la abundancia y composición de los ensambles de macroinvertebrados asociados a sus raíces en dos humedales de las planicies de inundación de los ríos Paraná (dentro del sitio Ramsar Humedales Chaco) y Pilcomayo (dentro del Parque Nacional Río Pilcomayo). Métodos: Durante la primavera y el verano, los macroinvertebrados se recolectaron en formaciones monoespecíficas de E. crassipes con una red de 962 cm2 y 500 µm de tamaño de malla. La densidad de hojas, la biomasa de hojas y raíces, la longitud de las hojas y raíces y la calidad del agua se midieron simultáneamente. Resultados: La temperatura, la concentración de oxígeno disuelto y el contenido de nutrientes fueron significativamente mayores y la conductividad eléctrica fue significativamente menor en la planicie de inundación del Pilcomayo que en la del Paraná. Las plantas de E. crassipes que crecen en la planicie de inundación del Pilcomayo tuvieron hojas más largas y menos biomasa de raíces que las encontradas en la planicie del Paraná. El número de macroinvertebrados por 1 000 g. de peso seco de la raíz y por m2 fueron significativamente diferentes entre ambas planicies de inundación, pero la riqueza de taxa fue similar. El análisis de Escalamiento Multidimensional No Métrico diferenció la abundancia de los 14 taxa seleccionados entre ambas planicies de inundación, y mostró alta correlación entre las variables ambientales y la abundancia de los macroinvetebrados. Los grupos taxonómicos más abundantes en la planicie de inundación del río Paraná fueron los oligoquetos (Naididae), los ostrácodos, principalmente Cytheridella ilosvayi y las larvas de mosquitos no picadores (Chironomidae). Dos familias, Hydrobiidae (Heleobia parchappii) y Chironomidae representaron el 49,3 % de la abundancia total en la planicie de inundación del Pilcomayo. Los camarones Macrobrachium jelskii y M. amazonicum, frecuentes en la planicie de inundación del Pilcomayo, no se encontraron en la planicie de inundación del Paraná. Conclusiones: Las diferentes condiciones ambientales en ambas planicies de inundación afectan la abundancia, composición y la dominancia de los ensambles de macroinvertebrados; sin embargo, la riqueza total de taxa fue similar. El área ocupada por E. crassipes en la planicie de inundación de estos ríos proporciona el hábitat que más contribuye a la diversidad biótica, lo que debe ser considerado en las estrategias de manejo.
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Background: Maternal mortality ratios (MMR) are still unacceptably high in many low-and middle-income countries especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Background Data for the causes of maternal deaths are needed to inform policies to improve maternal healthcare and reduce maternal mortality.Objective:This study sought to determine the magnitude and trend in maternal mortality and the causes at a tertiary hospital over a seven-year study period.Methodology:This was a retrospective review of maternal mortality and causes from 2012 to 2018. Data on number of maternal deaths, deliveries and causes of death were retrieved from the departmental annual reports and hospital records and entered into Microsoft Excel 2013.Data were presented as line graphs, chartsand frequency tables.Results:One hundred and ten (110) maternal deaths occurred out of 17,080 total births during the study period giving an overall MMR of 644. The MMR increased progressively from 580 in 2012 to 785 in 2018 with a sharp rise to the highest and subsequent decline to the lowest, values at the midpoint. The commonest causes of maternal deaths were Pre-eclampsia (PET) and Eclampsia 44(40%), Postpartum Haemorrhage (PPH) 25(22.7%) and Ruptured Uterus 13(11.8%).Conclusion: The maternal mortality ratio is high and the trendis worsening. The leading causes of maternal deaths were PET/Eclampsia and Postpartum haemorrhage accounting for about two-thirds of all deaths. Efforts must be geared towards improvements in the management of these cases, if this trend is to be reversed.
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Aims/Objective:A community-based cross-sectionall comparative study was carried out to compare the pattern of ocular morbidity between residents in upland and riverine communities in Rivers State.Methods:The sample size was calculated using the formula for comparative studies, based on alpha of 0.05, beta of 0.20, the proportion of eye disorder of 40.4% from a community-based study in Rivers State. A minimum sample size of 84 per group was attained.Data on age, sex, visual acuity, cup-disc ratio, intra-ocular diagnosis were obtained using an interviewer-based pro forma. Collected data were entered into Microsoft Excel and exported to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) Epi Info version 7 software for statistical analysis. The Pearson's Chi square/Fisher's exact tests were used as appropriate to determine significant differences in demographic and eye examination findings between the two groups (riverine versus upland) while Chi-square homogeneity was performed to determine significant differences in the individual ocular diagnosis across the groups. Statistical significance was set at P≤0.05. Results:A total of eighty-six (86) participants per group were involved in the study, making a total of one hundred and seventy-two participants. The mean age was 37.9 (±18.1) and age range of 1-90years. Males comprised 30.2% of the sample population while females were 69.8%. The commonest causes of ocular morbidity in both communitieswere Refractive error. Allergic conjunctivitis and cataract were more common in the Riverine community compared to the upland one. Conclusion:Our study shows that the pattern of ocular morbidity may differ based on land surfaces. Ocular morbidity appears to be more prevalent in Riverine areas than upland.Government interventions and eye care service providers should take cognizance of this while planning intervention programs at the State and National levels
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Among Neotropical freshwater ecoregions, the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga (MNCE) is a fish knowledge gap. Its temporary drainages are receptors of the São Francisco interbasin water transfer project (SFR-IWT) in the Brazilian semiarid. We provide a comprehensive baseline of fish richness of the five SFR-IWT basins. Species richness, shared, endemic, threatened and non-native species were obtained using sampling, ichthyologic collections, literature and online repositories (306 localities). In total 121, species were recorded, 111 of them native, and 16 (14.41%) listed for all basins. Higher richness of native species (78, 70.27%) was recorded in the São Francisco lower-middle stretch (SFRE), including 23 endemic, 61 (54.95%) in MNCE basins (13 endemic), and 28 (25.23%) shared between both ecoregions. In the MNCE, 50 species were recorded in Jaguaribe (JAG), 39 in Piranhas-Açu, 36 in Paraíba do Norte, and 32 in Apodi-Mossoró (APO). The number of species shared between the SFRE and each receptor basin varied from 24 (23.08%, JAG) to 20 (22.22%, APO). JAG contains 81.97% of the receptor basins' species. Its higher richness and endemism deserve special attention regarding the ongoing hydrological changes. This study will help detect possible modifications in the ichthyofauna of the main MNCE drainages.(AU)
Dentre as ecorregiões dulcícolas neotropicais, a Nordeste Médio-Oriental (MNCE) é uma lacuna de conhecimento sobre peixes. Suas drenagens temporárias são receptoras do projeto de transposição do São Francisco (SFR-IWT) no semiárido brasileiro. Fornecemos uma linha de base abrangente da riqueza de peixes das cinco bacias do SFR-IWT. Riqueza de espécies, espécies compartilhadas, endêmicas, ameaçadas e não-nativas foram obtidas através de amostragem, coleções ictiológicas, literatura e repositórios online (306 localidades). No total, foram registradas 121 espécies, 111 nativas e 16 (14,41%) listadas para todas as bacias. A maior riqueza de espécies nativas (78, 70,27%) foi registrada no trecho sub-médio do São Francisco (SFRE), incluindo 23 endêmicas e 61 (54,95%) nas bacias da MNCE (13 endêmicas), e 28 (25,23 %) compartilhadas entre ambas ecorregiões. Na MNCE, foram registradas 50 espécies na Jaguaribe (JAG), 39 na Piranhas-Açu, 36 na Paraíba do Norte e 32 na Apodi-Mossoró (APO). O número de espécies compartilhadas entre SFRE e cada bacia receptora variou de 24 (23,08%, JAG) a 20 (22,22%, APO). JAG contém 81,97% das espécies das bacias receptoras. Sua maior riqueza e endemismo merecem atenção especial em relação às mudanças hidrológicas em curso. Este estudo ajudará a detectar possíveis modificações na ictiofauna das principais drenagens da MNCE.(AU)
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Animals , Biodiversity , Characiformes , Fresh Water , FishesABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the frequency of occurrence and percentage distribution of Kell blood group antigens in indigenes of Ogoni ethnic group of Rivers State, Nigeria. Study Design: This was a cross-sectional study carried out among indigenes of Ogoni whose first generational parental origin is Ogoni. A total of 101 subjects (49 females and 52 males), within the age of 30� years were recruited for the study and they were apparently healthy and free from transfusion transmissible infections upon serological screening. Place and Duration of Study: Ogoniland is located in an area along the Niger Delta Eastern edge, and to the north-east of the Imo River and Port Harcourt city. Ogoniland covers about 1036 Sq Km and borders the Bay of Guinea. All participants were recruited in Bori. Bori is the traditional headquarter of Ogoni. Bori is located on latitude: 4040?34.64? N and longitude: 7021?54.68? E. The analysis was carried out at the Post Graduate Laboratory of Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, is located on latitude 4.750N and longitude 7.000E and lies along Bonny River in the Niger Delta. All subjects were recruited the same day and their blood samples collected on 2nd October, 2019, and analysis conducted on 3rd October, 2019. Methodology: Identification of Kell blood group antigens was done using Anti-Kell monoclonal reagent, prepared by Lorne Laboratories Ltd, UK. Lot No: 76090-A5; Expiry Date: 2021/02/21. Phenotyping of red cells was done using tube method as described by Lorne Laboratory Ltd. Results: The result showed zero frequency of occurrence and percentage distribution of Kell blood group antigen in the studied population (49 males and 52 females). Conclusion: The presence of Kell blood group antigens in indigenes of Ogoni recruited for the study which serve as representative of the Ogonis was rare. It is therefore necessary to take into cognizance that haemolytic transfusion reactions due to Kell antigens and antibodies will rarely occur, and as such Kell blood group is not significant in blood transfusion and in antenatal and blood group serology amongst the Ogonis.
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Background: Infection with hepatitis B (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are global public health problems. These infections during pregnancy increase the risk of maternal morbidity and mortality, and also pose a risk to the fetus due to mother to child transmission.Objective:To determine the prevalence of seropositive HIV and HBsAg cases amongst pregnant women at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH).Methodology:A retrospective review of hospital and laboratory records of all pregnant women booked at RSUTH in two years, from May 2017 to April 2019, was carried out. Data on patients’ age, parity and educational leveland reactivity of HIV and HBsAgtest at booking were retrieved Original Research Article using structured proforma and analyzed using Epi Info Version 7. Test for significance using Chi-square was set at a significant level of P<0.05.Results:3560 patients had HIV and HBsAg screening out of which 148 (4.2%) and9 (0.3%) respectively were positive. The comorbidity rate in this study was 0.06%. The mean age was 31.5±4.7 years and the mean gestational age at booking was 22.1±6.8 weeks. There was no significant relationship between their age (χ2 = 2.690, p-value=0.442) and parity (χ2 = 3.759, p-value=0.145) with HIV seropositivity, but these were significant for HBsAg (χ2 = 13.691, p-value=0.003) (χ2 = 13.121, p-value=0.001). Educational status was significant for HIV (χ2 = 16.188, p-value=0.000) but not for HBsAg (χ2 = 0.229, p-value=0.892).Conclusion: The seroprevalence rate of HIV and HBsAg in this study were low. HIV seroprevalence was significantly affected by lower education, while HBsAg seroprevalence was significantly affected by younger maternal age andnulliparity. Continued screening of pregnant women for these infections remains valuable and further community-based studies to identify risk factors are recommended
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Background: Untreated maternal syphilis is strongly associated with adverse birth outcomes. The WHO recommends routine serological screening in pregnancy. Some workers have advised a reappraisal of this practice, having demonstrated low seroprevalence in their antenatal population.Objective:To determine the prevalence of seropositive VDRL cases amongst pregnant women at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) in order to justify the need and cost-effectiveness for continued routine syphilis screening using VDRL alone.Methodology:A retrospective review of hospital and laboratory records of all pregnant women booked for antenatal care (ANC) at RSUTH in a two-year period, from May 2017 to April 2019, was carried out. Data on patients’ age, parity and educational level, and reactivity of VDRL test at booking were retrieved using structured pro-forma and analyzed using Epi Info Version 7. Test for significance using Chi-square was set at significant level of P<0.05.Results:3560 clinic patients had VDRL screening out of which 63 were positive. The overall prevalence rate in this study was 1.8%. The mean age was 31.5±4.7 years and the mean gestational age at booking was 22.1±6.8 weeks. There was no significant relationship between their age (χ2 = 0.403, p-value=0.940), parity (χ2 = 3.707, p-value=0.0.157), and educational status (χ2 = 1.853, p-value=0.396),and seropositivity. The cost of VDRL test per patient in RSUTH is $3, to detect the 63 cases the sum of $10,680 was spent.Conclusion: The seroprevalence rate of syphilis in this study was low. Initial screening using VDRL alone is neither justified nor cost effective. Selective screening based on risk factors and specific test with TPHA is recommended.
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Abstract Small hydroelectric power plants (SHP) have been considered as an alternative for the generation of electricity with reduced environmental impacts. Nevertheless, no studies have addressed changes in a particular kind of river macrohabitat commonly affected by SHPs, the knickzones. This study aimed to assess the impact of a SHP construction on the aquatic macroinvertebrate fauna associated with two basaltic knickzones located in Sapucaí-Mirim River, Southeast Brazil. The first, considered as a functional knickzone, follows the natural dynamics of the river flow and preserves the original rock substrate. The second, considered as non-functional knickzone, was permanently flooded after the SHP construction and the consolidated rock substrate was changed by fine sediment. Sampling was carried out in two seasonal periods and the data were analysed through multivariate analysis. It was observed differences in composition and structure of the macroinvertebrates community between the knickzones and periods. The functional knickzone exhibited a much higher richness, 72 taxa compared to 44 in the non-functional, as well as a large number of exclusive taxa (38, being only nine exclusive to the non-functional). Diversity, equitability and density mean values were also higher in the functional knickzone. The limnological parameters varied significantly between dry and rainy seasons but not between the distinct knickzones. This kind of macrohabitats and its potential role for the rivers biodiversity is practically unknown. In the scenery of fast SHP expansion, further studies and protection measures are necessary.
Resumo Atualmente, a instalação de pequenas centrais hidrelétricas (PCHs) tem sido a alternativa mais visada quando a questão é suprir a demanda energética, considerando-se os menores impactos ambientais possíveis. Contudo, são escassos os trabalhos que avaliam as alterações causadas por esses empreendimentos, principalmente no que se diz respeito a um tipo de macro-habitat de rios, os pedrais. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o impacto da construção de uma PCH na fauna de macroinvertebrados aquáticos associada a dois pedrais basálticos, localizados no rio Sapucaí-Mirim, no Sudeste do Brasil. O primeiro, considerado como um pedral funcional, segue a dinâmica natural do fluxo do rio e possui o substrato rochoso original. O segundo, considerado como pedral não funcional, foi permanentemente inundado após a construção da PCH e o substrato consolidado foi alterado por sedimentos finos. A amostragem foi realizada em dois períodos sazonais e os dados foram analisados através de análise multivariada. Foram observadas diferenças na composição e estrutura da comunidade de macroinvertebrados entre os pedrais e períodos. O pedral funcional apresentou uma riqueza muito maior, 72 táxons em comparação com 44 no não funcional, bem como um grande número de táxons exclusivos (38, sendo apenas nove exclusivos do não-funcional). Os valores médios da diversidade, equitabilidade e densidade também foram maiores no pedral funcional. Os parâmetros limnológicos variaram significativamente entre as estações seca e chuvosa, mas não entre os diferentes pedrais. Este tipo de macro-habitat e seu potencial papel para a biodiversidade dos rios são praticamente desconhecidos. Assim, mais estudos e medidas de proteção são necessários, principalmente diante do atual cenário de rápida expansão das PCHs.