Research Article
Protein Quality Assessments Using In-vivo Experimental Model on Bambara Groundnut
(Vigna subterranea (L.) verdc.) Formulated Diets
Atoyebi John Olayinka*
,
David Aderemi Ajayi,
Oluwasanmi Moses Odeniran
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
1-7
Received:
15 December 2025
Accepted:
4 January 2026
Published:
26 January 2026
Abstract: Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is a type of leguminous plant that thrives well in poor soil conditions and drought-prone areas and regions, making it an important crop for most subsistence farming practices and thus its capability to enhance food security in Africa. Studies have indicated and highlighted its resilience and ability to grow and be very productive even in harsh climates with minimal inputs and resources, which positions it as an important and sustainable crop for addressing food insecurity. However, despite its environmental resilience and nutritional potentials, this pulse still remains underutilized on the global market. This is particularly surprising given its rich nutrient profile, which makes it a valuable food source for health conscious consumers. Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) verdc.) formulated diets were used in this nutrition work, with thirty (30) weaning wistar rats, comprising (six groups), including the test groups, the positive and the negative controls, in an in-vivo feeding experiment for 21 days, to determine the changes in growth, protein and important biochemical parameters. The results obtained showed that the dietary Feed Efficiency Ratio (FER) changes for the test groups ranges from 0.083 ± 0.03 for group 5 to 0.104 ± 0.03 for group 4; while the Net Protein Utilisation (NPU) ranges from 65.46 ±3.55 for group 5 to 81.70 ±2.78 for group 4. The Haematological parameters showed a hematocrit (PCV) for the test groups ranging from 34.95 ± 1.59% for group 6 to 42.63 ± 1.54% for group 5; while the RBC ranges from 6.65 ± 0.49 x 109 / L for group 6 to 8.36 ± 0. 34 x 109 / L for group 4. Liver Enzyme activity were highest (AST) for group 3 with 171.30 ± 1.40 U/L, (ALP) for group 4 with 26.66 ± 0.41 U/L and (ALT) for group 5 with 128.33 ± 3.15 U/L. The work reveals the potentials of Bambara groundnut to sustain growth and developments, enhances cognitive developments, especially in children and adolescents.
Abstract: Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is a type of leguminous plant that thrives well in poor soil conditions and drought-prone areas and regions, making it an important crop for most subsistence farming practices and thus its capability to enhance food security in Africa. Studies have indicated and highlighted its resilience and ability to grow an...
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Research Article
Impact of Traumatic Visual Loss: A Pilot Study on the Quality of Life of Evisceral Patients
Kouadio Kouao Cedric Romarie*,
Kra Alla N’goran Simeon,
Agbohoun Reine Prisca,
Konan Manmi Sienou Marguerite Pascaline,
Soumahoro Massese,
Koman Chiatse Ellalie,
Kouassi-Rebours Aya Colette,
N'da Hermine Cynthia,
Gogoua Mattekei Roxane,
Kouassi Francois Xavier
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
8-15
Received:
4 January 2026
Accepted:
15 January 2026
Published:
30 January 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ejpm.20261401.12
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Abstract: The aim of this study was to assess the health-related quality of life (QOL) of patients with traumatic vision loss, with a view making recommendations for comprehensive patient management. It was a retrospective and prospective study with descriptive and analytical aims carried out in the ophthalmology department of the Cocody University Hospital Center (CHU) in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, over a period of 13 months, from September 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. The study included nine patient records of individuals followed for traumatic vision loss. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and the abbreviated version of the World Health Organization's Quality of Life Assessment Scale (WHO-QOL-BREF). The mean age of the patients was 32 ± 13.7 years, with a range of 19 to 50 years. The majority of patients were between 19 and 39 years old (66.7%). Males predominated (7/9 eyes), representing 77.8% of the population, with a sex ratio of 3.5. Patients' mean overall quality of life score was 51.78 ± 10.73. Patients had significantly lower QoL scores than the general population, especially for the psychological, social, and environmental health domains. The interest lies in the need to systematically include a psychological assessment to ensure comprehensive management.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to assess the health-related quality of life (QOL) of patients with traumatic vision loss, with a view making recommendations for comprehensive patient management. It was a retrospective and prospective study with descriptive and analytical aims carried out in the ophthalmology department of the Cocody University Hospital ...
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