Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

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Adaptation of reverse transcription loop- mediated isothermal amplification for field diagnosis of foot-and- mouth disease in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Kandusi, Sengiyumva Emmanuel
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral vesicular disease of cloven hoofed animals and poses major constraints to international trade in livestock production. Methods available for detection of FMD virus (FMDV) require specialized laboratory facilities and equipment. In this study, targeted laboratory- based experiments studies were conducted using reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) for detection and serotyping of FMDV under field conditions. Pan-serotypic RT-LAMP utilizing labeled and unlabeled primers was used for detection of the virus. Serotype-specific primers for FMDV serotypes A and O were used to type the positive samples using RT-LAMP. Amplification was observed in real-time for unlabeled primers and by molecular lateral flow devices for labeled primers. Also, gel electrophoresis was used for examination of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) bands. A total of 35 samples (n = 35) were examined using RT-LAMP. Of these, 40% (n=14) were positive from different regions in Tanzania. The positive samples were from Iringa with 29% (n=4), Morogoro with 14.2% (n=2), as well Kilimanjaro, Mara, Tanga, Tabora, Mtwara, Kagera Dar es Salaam and Mwanza with 7.1% (n=1) each. All the pan- serotypic RT-LAMP positive samples revealed time for positivity ranging from 12-30 minutes. These findings indicate that the standardized RT-LAMP assay reported in this study can be used for field detection of FMDV in suspected FMD outbreaks in Tanzania. These findings suggest a potential use of serotype-specific RT-LAMP for typing FMDV field strains.
Anatomical variation of habitat related changes in scapular morphology
(Tanzania Veterinary Journal, 2018-12-07) Luziga, C.; Wada, N.
The mammalian forelimb is adapted to different functions including postural, locomotor, feeding, exploratory, grooming and defense. Comparative studies on morphology of the mammalian scapula have been performed in an attempt to establish the functional differences in the use of the forelimb. In this study, a total of 102 scapulae collected from 66 species of animals, representatives of all major taxa from rodents, sirenians, marsupials, pilosa, cetaceans, carnivores, ungulates, primates and apes were analyzed. Parameters measured included scapular length, width, position, thickness, area, angles and index. Structures included supraspinous and infraspinous fossae, scapular spine, glenoid cavity, acromium and coracoid processes. Images were taken using computed tomographic (CT) scanning technology (CT-Aquarium, Toshiba and micro CT- LaTheta, Hotachi, Japan) and measurement values acquired and processed using Avizo computer software and CanvasTM 11 ACD systems. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2013. Results obtained showed that there were similar morphological characteristics of scapula in mammals with arboreal locomotion and living in forest and mountainous areas but differed from those with leaping and terrestrial locomotion living in open habitat or savannah. The cause for the statistical grouping of the animals signifies presence of the close relationship between habitat and scapular morphology and in a way that corresponds to type of locomotion and speed. The morphological characteristics of the scapula and functional interpretation of the parameters in relation to habitat of each taxon is discussed in detail.
Antibiotic Residues in Foods of Animal Origin: Review
(Macrothink Institute, 2023) Mgonja, Frida Richard; Kaswija, John Paul
Antibiotic residue in food is a serious public health issue that demands much attention and has a harmful impact on consumer health. The presence of antibiotic residue in food of animal origin creates challenges in global trade in animals and animal products. Public health implications of antibiotic residue in food include the development and propagation of antimicrobial drug resistance, hypersensitivity reactions, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, teratogenicity, bone marrow suppression, and disruption of normal intestinal flora. Improper use of antibiotics in animals results in the existence of residues beyond maximum limit levels and is associated with harmful health effects in humans. Supervision of antibiotics is required to ensure the safety of animal products. In this review, the use of antibiotics in food animals, antibiotic residues in foods of animal origin, and the effect of different cooking techniques on antibiotic residue levels are discussed.
Antibody response, viral load, viral clearance and growth rate in Tanzanian free-range local chickens infected with lentogenic Newcastle disease virus
(Academic Journals, 2021-04-15) Gallardo, Rodrigo; Kelly, Terra; Lamont, Susan; Dekkers, Jack; Zhou, Huaijun; Muhairwa, Amandus; Mushi, James Richard; Chiwanga, Gaspar Honorati; Mollel, Esther Lemburis; Walugembe, Muhammed; Max, Robert Arsen; Msoffe, Peter Makenga; Rodrigo Gallardo
This study is aimed at evaluating antibody responses, viral loads, viral clearance and growth rate of Tanzanian free-range local chicken (FRLC) challenged with LaSota strain of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) as indicator traits for selection of chickens for breeding with enhanced resistance to the disease and economic value. Three popular free-range local chicken ecotypes: Kuchi, Ching’wekwe and Morogoro-medium from three ecological zones of Tanzania were used for the experiments. Progenies from the breeder chickens were challenged with 10 7 titer of 50% egg infectious dose (EID 50 ) of the virus at 28 days of age. The viral loads and viral clearance rates evaluated by qRT-PCR from tear samples collected at 2- and 6-days post infection (dpi) showed that Kuchi could clear NDV better than Morogoro- medium and Ching’wekwe. Anti-NDV antibody levels determined from blood samples collected at 10 dpi using ELISA showed that Kuchi ecotype expressed higher mean anti-NDV antibodies compared to Morogoro-medium and Ching’wekwe. Growth rates determined from body weights collected for 38 days from day of hatch (D0) to 10 dpi showed higher growth rate for Kuchi than Morogoro-medium and Ching’wekwe chickens. Kuchi chickens were potentially more resistant to ND compared to Morogoro- medium and Ching’wekwe.
Antifertility effects of crude extracts from Acacia nilotica pods and Albizia lebbeck stem bark in female multimammate rats, Mastomys natalensis
(Academic Journals, 2021-07) Mwangengwa, Lusekelo M; Bakari, Gaymary G; Kanuya, Noel L; Max, Robert A
The study's main objective was to assess any pathophysiological significance of Acacia nilotica pods aqueous extract and Albizia lebbeck stem bark methanolic extract on the reproductive system of female multimammate rats (Mastomys natalensis). A total of 60 sexually mature female rats were randomized into a 2 × 3 factorial experimental design for treatments (Control, A. nilotica, and A. lebbeck) and treatment duration (7 or 14 days). Control rats consumed basal feed only, whereas extract-treated rats consumed the basal feed containing 2% w/w of either of the two plant extracts. At the end of treatment duration, treated female rats were cohabited with males for 16 days and sacrificed 20 days after the first day of cohabitation. Parameters including pregnancy rates, number of fetal implantations, possible resorption sites and fetal litter size were assessed at necropsy. Further post-necropsy parameters were evaluated in ovaries including the ovarian weights, follicular and corpora lutea numbers and general histopathology. Results showed that pregnancy percentages, the number of fetal implantations and fetal litter size were significantly reduced (P < 0.01) in rats under the A. nilotica and A. lebbeck extract treatments relative to the control rats. The ovarian weights of rats receiving the extracts did not differ significantly from their control counterparts (P > 0.05). However, the number of corpora lutea of pregnancy was significantly reduced (P < 0.001) in ovaries of rats under extract treatments than in their control counterparts. Instead, ovaries of rats receiving the two extracts contained a larger number of degenerating follicles, signifying halted ovulatory and conception activities. The current study has demonstrated that dietary inclusion of crude extracts from A. nilotica pods and A. lebbeck stem bark can lead to decreased fertility success rates in M. natalensis female rats through suppression of ovulatory activities and induction of follicular atresia.
Antimicrobial susceptibility of flavobacteriaceae isolates from nile tilapia (oreochromis niloticus) in Tanzania
(African Journal of Microbiology Research, 2020) Mwega, Elisa; Chengula, Augustino; Colquhoun, Duncan; Mutoloki, Stephen; Mdegela, Robinson; Evensen, Øystein; Wasteson, Yngvild
This study aimed to assess antimicrobial susceptibility of members of the family Flavobacteriaceae isolated from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Antimicrobial susceptibility of 67 Flavobacteriaceae isolates originating mainly from ponds and Lake Victoria against 19 antimicrobial agents was determined by the broth micro dilution method. Overall, most isolates were susceptible to enrofloxacin (97%; MIC 90 2 μg/ml) followed by novobiocin (85%, MIC 90, 4 μg/ml) and the aminoglycoside streptomycin (85%; MIC 90 , 128 μg/ml). Some isolates were also susceptible towards trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (77.6%), neomycin and florfenicol both at 62.7%. Susceptibility levels were low for tylosin tartrate (32.8%), clindamycin and sulphathiazole both at (23.9%), ceftiofur (6%), spectinomycin (6%) and tetracyclines/oxtetracyclines (4.5%). In contrast, β-Lactams (amoxicillin, penicillin), gentamycin and erythromycin exhibited very poor activity against Flavobacteriaceae isolates. The extent of antimicrobial susceptibility did not vary significantly among isolates from farmed and wild fish isolates (P > 0.01). The highest Multiple Antimicrobial Resistance (MAR) index was observed in Chryseobacterium indologenes (0.89) and the lowest in Chaetoderma indicum isolates (0.32). Our results indicate that most of Flavobacteriaceae isolates are multidrug resistance, and this may be associated with intrinsic resistance mechanisms to a broad range of antimicrobial agents. However, the need remains to carryout in-depth study to understand better the underlying genetic mechanisms given that the magnitude and trend for susceptibility was comparable between isolates from aquaculture and fisheries. The findings from this study give us insight into appropriate choice of antimicrobial agents for effective treatment of infections caused by these isolates.
Arbovirus infections in aedes mosquitoes at the interface of human-livestock-wildlife ecosystem in Kilosa district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2020) Machelle, I. S
Arboviruses refer to a group of viruses, which are transmitted by arthropods including mosquitoes and ticks. The objective of this study was to determine mosquito transmission potential of arboviruses at the interface of human-livestock-wildlife ecosystem in Kilosa district, Tanzania. Adult mosquitoes were collected using Mosquito Magnet® Liberty Plus traps. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay was performed on pooled adult Aedes mosquitoes to detect the presence of Dengue virus (DENV), Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) and Yellow fever virus (YFV). A total of 1340 mosquitoes belonging to four genera (Aedes, Anopheles, Culex and Mansonia) and 6 species were collected. Culex accounted for the largest (48.06%; n= 644) proportion of the mosquitoes while Anopheles for the lowest proportion (2.54%; n=34). Of the total mosquitoes collected, Aedes aegypti accounted for the majority of mosquito species (46%; n=613), followed by Culex quinquefasciatus (44.1%; n=591). Of the 36 Ae. aegypti pools tested for arbovirus 10 (28%) pools were positive. Dengue virus was detected in 3% (1/ 36) pools and CHIKV in 25% (9/ 36) pools. One pool that was positive for DENV also tested positive for CHIKV indicating the possibility of co-infection whereby, individuals may become infected by more than one arbovirus at a time thus risk of co-transmission to human and livestock. Nucleotide sequencing of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of the structural polyprotein region of DENV produced 511 bp fragment. Basic Local Alignment Search tool for nucleotides (BLASTn) and phylogenetic analysis showed that the (DENV3/TAN/Mikumi/2020 strain) (Accession number MW133786) obtained from this study clustered with DENV-3 strains reported in China and Kenya. This information is important as it gives knowledge on areas at high risk for arboviral disease outbreaks. The findings indicate that the presence of various mosquito vectors and detection of arboviruses in wild-caught Aedes mosquitoes leave the population of Kilosa district at a higher risk of transmission of DENV and CHIKV
Assessing the awareness, knowledge, attitude and practice of the community towards solid waste disposal and identifying the threats and extent of bacteria in the solid waste disposal sites in Morogoro municipality in Tanzania
(IISTE, 2015) Chengula, Augustino; Lucas, Bahati K; Mzula, Alexanda
Solid wastes comprise all the wastes arising from human and animal activities that are normally solid, discarded as useless or unwanted materials. Health hazards associated with improper disposal of solid wastes to the community were investigated in Morogoro municipality. The aim of the project was to investigate the solid waste disposal practices and their health hazard implications to the community in Morogoro municipality. The study was conducted by considering several solid waste disposal sites based on three methods; observation, questionnaire survey and microbiological analysis. Based on observation method, several solid waste practices were detected including collection of wastes using trucks, wheel barrow, carriers made from elephant grasses and cement bags. Questionnaire survey pinpointed several diseases caused by solid wastes such as malaria, diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid and worm diseases from the respondents. From microbiological analysis, several pathogenic bacteria were identified from the solid disposal sites. The bacteria with their frequency of isolation identified were: Salmonella typhimurium (16.7%), Shigella dysenteriae (16.7%), Citrobacter freundii (8.3%), Citrobacter amalonaticus (8.3%), Aerobacter aerogenes (8.3%), Proteus vulgaris (16.7%), Klebsiella oxyotoca (8.3%), Klebsiella (8.3%), E.coli (8.3%). Solid waste generated by the daily activities of the people needs to be properly managed in such a way that it minimizes the risk to the environment and human health. Inadequate collection and disposal of solid waste is a major factor in the spread of disease and environmental degradation.
Assessment of genetic diversity of maize landraces in Tanzania using Random Amplified Polymorhic DNA markers
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Asigbee, T. W.
The knowledge and comprehension of the genetic variation of maize (Zea mays L.) landraces is pivotal for the implementation of measures to address conservation and improvement. The purpose of this study was to assess the genetic diversity and relationship among selected maize genotypes in Republic of Tanzania by screening twenty Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA molecular markers.DNA was extracted from 160 maize genotypes and PCR was conducted using twelve informative primers. Amplification revealed 104 polymorphic bands with an average of 8.67 polymorphic fragments per primer. The number of amplified fragments ranged from 7 (OPP-02) to 10 (OPK-08), with the amplicon sizes ranging from 75 to 2000 base pairs. The polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0.7487 to 0.954 with an average of 0.8647 and gene diversity value ranged from 0.7531 to 0.9577 with an average of 0.8698.The dendrogram drawn based on Neighbour- Joining method revealed the diversity and genetic relatedness among the landraces in the various clusters but did not reflect the geographical locations of the studied maize genotypes. This might be attributed to the high gene flow in the various study locations.The analysis of the RAPD molecular markers revealed a high genetic diversity among the maize landraces and proved to be a practical method for assessing polymorphism in maize cultivars. These findings will be useful to establish and improve the current germplasm collection of landraces and help maximize the utility of maize genetic resources.
Assessment of illegal bushmeat using high thoroughput molecular tools in transboundary villages bordering Serengeti ecosystem in Tarime District, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Kilwanila, S. I.
Detection of illegal bush-meat in Africa has over the years relied on morphological identification technique, which is less effective due to post-hunting procedures. Therefore, the current study aimed at assessing bush-meat dynamics in trans-boundary areas of Tanzania and Kenya in the western part of Serengeti ecosystem. A cross-sectional design with two different methodologies was used. First, semi-structured questionnaires were administered to collect information on socio-demographic and other social factors leading to illegal bush-meat hunting, preference and consumption. Secondly, to augment the information obtained from the questionnaire, qPCR-HRM analysis was employed by using three different molecular markers 16s, Cytb and COI for molecular identification of assumed 138 collected sundried bush-meat samples. The results indicated that hunting occurs mostly in the dry season primarily using snares, and wildebeest was revealed to be the most hunted. Furthermore, young demonstrated high bush-meat consumption whereas immigrants showed high bush-meat preference. Likewise, highly educated young respondents indicated to have a high consumption and preference than less educated old respondents. Regarding molecular identification, 20 species were identified altogether, with zebra constituting the majority (n=51, 49.5%). It is recommended that high surveillance against poaching is needed by wildlife authorities during dry season; proper disposal of the unworthy wire cables by TANESCO; sensitization of both primary and secondary school students on legal harvesting of wildlife were made. Other recommendations focused on the need for proper execution of HRM procedures for bush- meat identification; and that for bush-meat samples to be accepted in court of law as exhibits should be analyzed using molecular procedures that proved to be reliable.
Assessment of knowledge and practices on home management of malaria among selected families in Morogoro Municipality
(Academic Journals, 2022) Angelina, Julius; Mgonja, Frida Richard
Knowledge and practices in preventing malaria infection were assessed in a cross-sectional study in Morogoro Municipal. Malaria is a life-threatening parasitic disease transmitted caused by plasmodial species which are plasmodium falciparum, plasmodium vivax, plasmodium ovale, and plasmodium malariae. With most of the cases of malaria being due to Plasmodium falciparum accounting for more than 95% of infections. A total of sixty families were randomly selected from five study areas (Chamwino, Mafiga, Kichangani, Misufini and Manzese) to participate in the study. The questionnaire consisting of closed and open-ended questions was administered. The results indicated that knowledge on malaria transmission and prevention was reasonable as the respondents declared to have a significant knowledge (85%) on malaria transmission and prevention, though there was a knowledge gap among respondents. Breeding sites were also assessed and the results showed that 26.7% reported dark places as breeding sites, 40% mentioned the edges of ponds and stagnant water, 26.7% tagged dirty areas as breeding sites, 1.7% mentioned cattle sheds, and 5% were not aware at all. Methods used for management of malaria in their homes indicate that most of the respondents (73.3%) agreed with indoor residual spraying (IRS) while (26.7%) did not agree with IRS. Most respondents commented on the effectiveness of Home Management of Malaria (HMM) to be somehow helpful in reducing malaria infection cases, while 31.7% strongly agreed that HMM has been effective in reducing malaria infection cases. Therefore, there is a need to improve the emphasis of HMM to ensure that the effectiveness of HMM is being achieved at a great level.
Assessment of knowledge and practices on home management of malaria among selected families in Morogoro municipality
(Academic Journals, 2022-03-30) Mgonja, Frida Richard; Julius, Angelina
Knowledge and practices in preventing malaria infection were assessed in a cross-sectional study in Morogoro Municipal. Malaria is a life-threatening parasitic disease transmitted caused by plasmodial species which are plasmodium falciparum, plasmodium vivax, plasmodium ovale, and plasmodium malariae. With most of the cases of malaria being due to Plasmodium falciparum accounting for more than 95% of infections. A total of sixty families were randomly selected from five study areas (Chamwino, Mafiga, Kichangani, Misufini and Manzese) to participate in the study. The questionnaire consisting of closed and open-ended questions was administered. The results indicated that knowledge on malaria transmission and prevention was reasonable as the respondents declared to have a significant knowledge (85%) on malaria transmission and prevention, though there was a knowledge gap among respondents. Breeding sites were also assessed and the results showed that 26.7% reported dark places as breeding sites, 40% mentioned the edges of ponds and stagnant water, 26.7% tagged dirty areas as breeding sites, 1.7% mentioned cattle sheds, and 5% were not aware at all. Methods used for management of malaria in their homes indicate that most of the respondents (73.3%) agreed with indoor residual spraying (IRS) while (26.7%) did not agree with IRS. Most respondents commented on the effectiveness of Home Management of Malaria (HMM) to be somehow helpful in reducing malaria infection cases, while 31.7% strongly agreed that HMM has been effective in reducing malaria infection cases. Therefore, there is a need to improve the emphasis of HMM to ensure that the effectiveness of HMM is being achieved at a great level.
Assessment of knowledge, awareness, and use of family planning methods among residents in Iringa Municipality
(Macrothink Institute, 2023) Mgaya, Catherine M.; Mgonja, Frida R
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Iringa Municipality with 100 women of childbearing age aged 18 to 45 years. Levels of knowledge and awareness of family planning methods were surveyed using a self-administered questionnaire. As a result, it was found that the majority of 94(94%) of the surveyed population said they were well-informed about family planning methods and had good attitudes and awareness of contraceptives. Of the methods presented, male condoms, injections, and implants were familiar and used by the majority of participants. Of the 100 participants, 85(85%) used modern family planning techniques and 71(83.5%) of them reported having used services at a health facility. However, the remaining 15(15%) of respondents indicated that they did not use family planning for religious and cultural reasons. Modern contraceptive technology is available, accessible, and proven to be used. Therefore, more education is needed for communities on the importance of using permanent modern strategies, including sterilization. Getting men involved is also important.
Assessment of pesticide residues in harvested tomato fruits at Makambako town council in Njombe Region, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2021) Bilaro, Jansen Stanslaus
In modern agriculture, pest infestation has posed a great challenge to farmers. The use of pesticide has eventually become an important tool to ensure quality and quantity of crop yields. However, such chemicals might have residual impacts to consumers. This study was conducted to assess the extent of pesticide residues in harvested tomato fruits at Makambako Town Council in Njombe region, Tanzania. Specifically the study aimed at: (i) investigating adherence to recommended manufacturer’s instructions on pesticide application among tomato farmers (ii) determining level and frequency of occurrence of selected pesticide residues in tomato fruits and (iii) characterizing dietary risks associated with consumption of fresh tomato fruits containing pesticide residues. Forty seven (47) farmers were interviewed on pesticide types and their application using structured questionnaire. Forty two (42) fresh tomato fruits for laboratory analysis were sampled from interviewed farmers who were at harvesting season. QuEChERS (CEN) Method 15662.5 was employed for pesticide extraction and analyzed by Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer. It was found that all respondents mixed more than one pesticide in a single spray tank without adhering to recommended mixing procedures. The average withholding period was 5 days, below the recommended 7 days for mixture of mancozeb and metalaxyl which were commonly used fungicides at the study area. Eighty three percent of the respondents exceeded the mixing concentration of pesticide above the recommended mixing ratios. Residues of chlorpyrifos, profenofos, gamma cyhalothrin and cypermethrin were alternatingly detected in 78.51 % of analyzed samples. The average concentrations of residues were 0.014, 0.056, 0.003 and 0.2 mg/kg for chlorpyrifos, profenofos, gamma cyhalothrin and cypermethrin, and were all below Codex MRLs of 1, 10, 0.3 and 0.2 mg/kg respectively, as per FAO/WHO guidelines. The maximum residue concentration was 0.718 mg/kg for cypermethrin, which was above the Codex MRL of 0.2 mg/kg. Profenofos was the most frequently detected pesticide, occurring in 60 % of samples. The hazard indices for the selected pesticide indicate no potential health hazards to general population due to lifetime consumption of fresh tomato fruits from the study area. The study recommend regular training to farmers on good agricultural practices through extension officers and pesticide regulatory authority. Further research on pesticide residues and dietary risk assessment is recommended for other pesticide commonly used at the study area.
Association between occupational risks of exposure to pesticides and respiratory symptoms among organic and non organic farmworkers
(2022) Owisso, Rose D.; Bukalasa, Joseph S.; Mwezi, Raphael J.; Maleto, Julius S.; Mgonja, Frida R.
Respiratory problem is one of the main occupational health challenges faced by farmworkers, it can occur while preparing and applying pesticides and during tasks in recently sprayed fields. Symptoms associated with different respiratory problems include coughing, wheezing and airway inflammation are commonly observed among farmworkers who are occupationally exposed to pesticides. In low and middle-income countries, epidemiological evidence for the association between occupational exposure to pesticides and respiratory diseases in adults is limited. The study employed a cross-sectional survey that ran from January to February 2021 using face to face semi- structured questionnaire administered to farmworkers who were working on flower and coffee farms in Arusha and Kilimanjaro. Approximately 384 farmworkers were randomly selected to participate in this study. The study included organic and non-organic farmworkers who were directly engaged in agricultural activities and exclude supporting staff such as human resource managers who were not engaged directly in agricultural activities. The results indicate that non-organic farmers were at high risk of developing respiratory symptoms than organic farmworkers. Non-organic farmers were significantly associated with cough, rhinitis, and shortness of breath among farmworkers [adj. OR (95% CI) 31.94 (12.04, 84.70), 4.44 (2.61, 7.56) and 6.44 (1.98, 20.95)] respectively. However, there should be a systematic collection of data about poisoning cases occurring in the farm areas with a large number of employees so that effective measures can be taken to protect the farmers from chronic illnesses associated with pesticide exposure, particularly respiratory problems in this case.
Association of Betaine Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2.1 (Badh2.1) Gene Allele with aroma in popular traditional rice varieties in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Moshi, W. E.
Aromatic rice is highly cherished in many countries of the world and commands premium prices at all levels of the global rice trade. The presence of aroma in aromatic rice is controlled by betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase 2.1 (BADH2.1) gene allele which results from an eight base pair deletion and three single nucleotide polymorphisims (SNPs) in exon seven of betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (BADH2) gene. This mutation is responsible for the introduction of premature stop codon which produce a truncated protein, this results in loss of function of the enzyme betaine aldehyde dehdrogenase 2 (BADH2) leading to accumulation of substrate (main aroma compound) 2-acetyl 1-pyrroline (2AP) in aromatic rice varieties. In this study, the association between BADH2.1 aromatic allele and aroma in Tanzanian rice varieties was investigated. Leaf and grain aromatic tests for aroma evaluation and screening for BADH2.1 gene allele using allele specific amplification (ASA) marker were conducted in 160 popular traditional rice landraces from different geographical regions of Tanzania. Of the 160 landraces genotyped and phenotyped; 95 varieties were classified as aromatic by the presence of aroma in both leaf and grain aromatic tests, most of these (91.6 %) carried BADH2.1 gene allele. Evidence from sequencing of BADH2/BADH2.1 alleles confirmed the association of BADH2.1 gene allele with aroma in aromatic rice landraces as it was shown that all aromatic genotypes had eight base pair deletion and three SNPs in exon seven of BADH2 locus. This suggests that BADH2.1 gene allele is the main aroma allele in most of the Tanzanian aromatic rice varieties. Phylogenetic analysis of BADH2/BADH2.1 nucleotide sequences, showed a large amount of genetic variability (39.41-100 % nucleotide sequence identity) among the varieties studied. These findings will contribute siginificantly in planning for effective rice breeding strategies especially in selection of appropriate parental materials for developing high yielding aromatic rice varieties in the country.
Awareness on mycotoxins among commercial poultry feed handlers in Morogoro
(TANZANIA VETERINARY ASSOCIATION, 2017) Temba, B. A.
Successful control of the mycotoxins contamination in animal feeds needs to integrate variety of techniques which involve different stakeholders along the livestock management and feed handling chain. A study was conducted in three districts in Morogoro region, Tanzania, to assess the degree of awareness among poultry feed handlers including feed processors and retailers. A structured questionnaire was delivered to 186 respondents including 36 feed miller owners or managers, 54 feed miller workers and 96 feed retailers. The respondents were randomly sampled in Morogoro municipality, Morogoro rural, and Kilosa districts. It was found that 85% of the respondents in the three districts had basic knowledge on mycotoxins. Among the respondents with the basic knowledge on mycotoxins 52% had very unsatisfactory knowledge, 44% had unsatisfactory knowledge and 4% had satisfactory knowledge. The respondents from Morogoro municipality (urban area) had significantly higher awareness on mycotoxins as compared to the ones from Morogoro rural and Kilosa (p< 0.05). Managers and/or owners of feed millers were more aware on mycotoxins as compared to other miller workers. Feed miller workers and retailers conducted 82% and 72% respectively of activities potential for mycotoxins control during feed handling processes while managers conducted 56% of the activities. The findings of this study display the potential roles of commercial poultry feed handlers on occurrence and control of mycotoxin accumulation in feeds and subsequent exposure to poultry. Utilization of the obtained information on implementation of mycotoxin control programs will facilitate better allocation of the limited resources, by understanding what inputs are required by different groups of role players.
Awareness, knowledge and practice of pastoralists and agro- pastoralists towards livestock diseases affecting domestic animals in Arusha, Manyara and Morogoro Regions, Tanzania
(2013) Chengula, A; Mdegela, R.H; Kasanga, C.J
The study was carried out to assess pastoralists and agro-pastoralists awareness, knowledge and practice in various livestock diseases affecting domestic animals in Arusha Manyara and Morogoro regions in Tanzania. Closed- and open-ended questionnaires, focus group discussions and in-depth interview techniques were employed. Diseases, drought, lack of dipping tanks, insufficient of livestock experts and drugs are the main constraints in the livestock keeping community in the study area. Nineteen diseases have been reported to affect their animals at one time or the other. East Coast fever (ECF, 79.7%), Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP, 60.8%) and Trypanosomosis (50%) have been reported by more than 50% of pastoralists that they affect their animals. ECF and CCPP seem to be the leading diseases with great impact to the pastoralists by causing high mortality rates. Rift valley fever (RVF) and anthrax have been reported by majority to be diseases which appear in form of outbreak in their area. Diseases reported here are said to be controlled primarily by treating with various drugs and Oxytetracycline being a common drug of choice for most unknown diseases. Other control methods include vaccination and deworming, dipping and spray of animals using acariceides. Livestock experts have been reported to play little role in controlling common livestock diseases as majority of livestock keepers tends to treat their animals. Veterinary experts seem to be important during outbreak of diseases or for unknown diseases killing many animals. Eating of dead and improperly cooked meat together with un-boiled milk was found to be common in the pastoral community. This could lead to the spread (if any) of zoonotic diseases easily. Livestock keeping community is aware of most of common diseases circulating in their area but the way they practice to control leads to failure of control of those diseases at individual and national level. Devising a mechanism to educate them so that they know how to handle some common and reporting outbreak diseases such as use of trained community animal health workers (CAHWs) will help control livestock diseases in Tanzania.
Bioactivity of Synadenium glaucescens (pax) extracts on helminth eggs and larvae from wastewater stabilization ponds in Morogoro municipality,Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2015) Hassan, S.
The increased use of wastewater and sludge from wastewater stabilization ponds in agriculture predisposes the consumers to the health risks. The objective of this study was to evaluate the bioactivity of Synadenium glaucescens (Pax) extracts on helminth eggs and larvae from wastewater and sludge in Morogoro. Helminth eggs and larvae were recovered using Bailenger and Baerman methods, and then quantified using McMaster techniques. Extracts (S. Glaucescens) used during hatchability and larvicidal bioassays were obtained using hot and cold solvent extraction. The effect of S. glaucescens extracts on hatchability and larvicidal was tested using in vitro and in vivo methods. One litre of wastewater was collected from anaerobic, facultative and maturation ponds. One hundred grams of sludge were sampled from the ponds and piles. Lethal concentration fifty (LC50) and inhibitory concentration fifty (IC50) were used to determine larvicidal and hatchability effects. The identified helminth eggs were from nematodes including Ascarid, Strongylid and Trichuris. Minimum amount of ≤ 1 e.p.l. were found in wastewater sampled from maturation ponds, same amount recommended by WHO guideline of 2006, and a maximum of 700 e.p.l. from anaerobic ponds. It was found that sludge samples contained a minimum of ≤ 1 e.p.g. from maturation ponds and maximum of 100 e.p.g. in anaerobic pond. The ethanol extracts of root bark and leaves were the most effective with IC50 19.34 and 39.56 μgml-1. The two extracts also demonstrated the highest LC50 of 19.41 and 30.19 μgml-1 respectively. The root bark extracts were more active than leaves extracts. This study demonstrated a high potential of using S. glaucescens extract in controlling helminths in wastewater and sludge.
Comparative gross and histological morphology of goat (caprine) and sheep (ovine) placentomes
(Tanzania Veterinary Journal, 2019-02-01) Luziga, C.; Kashoma, I. P.
This study aimed to investigate the gross and micro-anatomy of the placentome of Tanzanian goats and sheep and their relationship with some foetal parameters. Forty pregnant uteri (20 from goats and 20 from sheep) were collected from slaughtered pregnant animals. Foetal age was estimated using Crown-Rump Length formula. Other parameters such as head length (HL), neck length (NL), fore and hind limb length, foetal weight, total number of placentomes and placentome size and location in the uteri were taken. All placentae exhibited the typical characteristics of a cotyledonary with discrete areas of attachment between maternal and foetal tissues. Placentome counts ranged from 70 to 92 and 74 to 104 in sheep and goats, respectively. The average length of placentomes was 20.0±4.2 and 30.7±9.0 in sheep and goats, respectively. Placentomes from does in the present study were concave in shape and the majority were of type A. Regression analysis showed a statistically significant relationship between foetal age and placental size (r2=0.3245; p<0.001); between foetal age and foetal weight (r2=0.7364; p<0.001); and between foetal age and placental weight (r2=0.6458; p<0.01); but the number of placentomes insignificantly (P>0.01) varied with foetal age. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated that the Tanzanian sheep and goat placentae are cotyledonary – synepitheliochorial type having placentomes that tend to increase in size with gestation age in response to greater nutrient and or metabolic requirement of the growing foetus.

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