The African Journal of biomedical Research is conceived as an academic and professional journal covering all fields within the Biomedical Sciences including the allied health fields. Articles from the Physical Sciences and humanities related to the Medical Sciences are also within the scope of the journal. The African Journal of Biomedical Research publishes full-length papers, review articles intended to throw light on recent advances in areas within its scope, short communications, rapid communications and mini-reviews. The journal also carries news on conferences, workshops and products. The guiding principle is consistency.
Biomedical Journal Consult. Ibadan, Nigeria
Isolation and sensitivity patterns of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from nonclinical samples
The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in hospital environment possesses obvious clinical risk to patients with some obvious consequences. The current study was conducted to ascertain the prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in nonclinical samples in central Hospital, Agbor. A total of 25 Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated from a total of 110 nonclinical samples collected intermittently from Sinks traps, Mop heads, bed pans from four (4). The samples were inoculated on MacConkey and blood agar plates and incubated at 37 °C for 24 h. The isolates were identified by conventional microbiological tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern was determined by modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The overall prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was 23.8% with a range of 16.2% to 33.2% in the wards examined. The most contaminated area with Pseudomonas aeruginosa was sink traps (36.)%), floors (24.0%), mopheads (20.0%) while bedpans accounted for 20.0% of the isolate sources. the antibacterial susceptibility patterns of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa to ten (10) antibacterial agents used showed 84% susceptibility to pefloxacin, 76% to ofloxacin, while ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin recorded 72% susceptibility respectively. 64% of the isolates were susceptible to gentamicin. The continued contamination of hospital wards with Pseudomonas aeruginosa highlights the necessity for robust infection control measures, ongoing monitoring and management of the hospital environment to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections
Egile-eskubideak 2024 African Journal of Biomedical Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fungal Profile and Pathogenicity Indices Associated with Cucumber Fruits in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria.
The fungal profile and pathogenicity indices associated with cucumber fruits were determined using standard microbiological methods. A total of one hundred and twenty-five (125) samples were randomly picked from five (5) different markets/ hawking points, transported in ice bags to Laboratory for analysis, prepared and made ready for microbiological analysis. Also pathogenicity tests were conducted on the identified isolates to establish both severity and percent disease index in the Koch postulates of disease development. The mean fungal count ranged from 1.0 x 103 ±0.25/±0.32 to 5.4 x 103 ±0.12. Isolates were characterized colonially, microscopically, and morphologically with their identities confirmed with reference chart. The four (4) isolates include Aspergillus species, Penicillium species, Fusarium species, and Cladosporium species. Due to high microbial thresholds of associated genus, there is need for all round awareness to avoid health outbreaks and pathogenesis tendencies, as some isolated species could produce potent toxins that are linked with food-borne illnesses. Bruises, pierces and surface wounds should be avoided at all times, having known the PDI of some isolates. Infestation by rodents and insects during storage should be avoided as it may constitute serious health and deterioration exposures. Washing of fruits with salted-water before eating is most recommended, as transit eating of any kind should be discouraged.
Effects of a local aphrodisiac on body weight changes, LD50, lipid profile, liver enzymes and antioxidant activities of male Wistar rats
Rejuvenator is a local commercial libido enhancing drink extensively consumed in Nigeria as ‘over-the-counter product’. Following reports from the users, it is alleged to improve libido and fertility in males. Listed as ingredients are Tribulus terrestris, Capsasine, Cilantrosied, Myristica fragrans, Zingiber officinale, Rhodiola rosea, Ocinum bacilicum, honey and cinnamon, which are natural products believed to treat erectile dysfunction in males and other ailments. In this study we aimed at investigating the effect of this aphrodisiac on LD50, body weight changes and some other biochemical parameters to ascertain the implications if any of the drink on the living system. In the experimentation, fractions of the drink (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg bodyweight) and Viagra (100 mg/kg bodyweight) were administered to Wistar rats for 21 days. Toxicity evaluation of the drink revealed that its LD50 is above 5000 mg/kg body weight. A favorable lipid profile was observed in the test groups and no significant negative impact was seen on the antioxidant enzymes. The drink has the tendency of increasing body weight and may impact the liver as both ALT and ALP were significantly high (p < 0.05) in group 3. The study has revealed that the drink has no toxicity challenge (LD50 > 5000 mg/kg bw) nor the tendency to increase free radical activity in the system as well as triggering lipid peroxidation. The animals possessed favorable lipid profile, though; some liver enzymes increased which suggests that the drink could impact on the liver and may be greater after a long-term use. Finally, the drink has the tendency to increase weight
Electrocardiographic Study of Rescued White-bellied Pangolins (Phataginus tricuspis) Immobilized with Xylazine Combination
Optimal health is required in endangered species and one of the vital organs to assess the overall health of an animal is the heart. The Electrocardiograph (ECG) provides information on the health status of the heart. There is dearth of information on the electrocardiographic parameters of white bellied pangolins. In this study, we obtained cardiac parameters from clinically healthy white-bellied pangolins (n=26) rescued from trade in Southwestern Nigeria. The Pangolins were sedated with Ketamine hydrochloride (10mg/kg) and Xylazine (3mg/kg). Electrocardiography was recorded with the animal on dorsal recumbence using a 6/7 lead computer ECG machine. Standard bipolar (I, II, III) and augmented unipolar (aVR, aVL and aVF) leads readings were recorded. Measurements are presented as mean±standard deviation. Electrocardiogram (ECG) readings were analysed using Descriptive statistics, Student t-test at 5% level of significance. Electrocardiographic parameters such as heart rate (HR), P-wave duration, PR-interval, QRS duration, QT interval, QTc interval and Ra were recorded for each of the leads. The HR ranged from 54 to 109 beats/min with a mean ± standard deviation of 82.85±13.50 beats/min. Lead II recordings showed a P-wave duration of 61.19±16.73 ms, PR interval 94.88±18.88 ms, QRS duration 50.77±16.05 ms, QT interval 299.88±31.23 ms, QTc interval 347.88±37.07 ms and Ra 1.28±0.38 mV. There were no significant differences in the ECG parameters between male and female white-bellied pangolins in all the leads measured. The findings of this study should provide clinical reference for healthy management of African pangolins. It would also serve as a reference value for further research. .
Seasonal assessment of pollution status, bioaccumulation and potential human health risk of heavy metals in Shrimps (Penaeus Monodon) and water from the Great Kwa River in Calabar, Nigeria.
The deterioration of water quality in rivers is caused by various factors, with heavy metals contamination being a significant contributor. Human activities are identified as the main cause of this contamination. This research evaluated the pollution levels, bioaccumulation, and potential health risks associated with heavy metals presence in Shrimps (Penaeus Monodon) and the water from Great Kwa River in Calabar, Nigeria. Shrimp and water samples were collected for both wet and dry season at four designated locations along the river. The physical characteristics of the water were assessed in-situ. The concentrations of heavy metals, namely lead, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, iron, and copper were determined through wet digestion and analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. To validate the method, standard reference materials (Lichens coded IAEA - 336) were utilized. The physical properties of water were found to be within the established standards. In the shrimp, the Fe and Pb were significantly higher (p < 0.05) during the wet season compared to the dry season. Similarly, the occurrence of Fe, Cr, and Pb in the water samples was significantly higher (p < 0.05) during the wet season compared to the dry season. The Estimated Daily Intake of all the assessed metals in both seasons were within the recommended upper tolerable limits for heavy metals in seafoods. The Target Hazard Quotients for metals under investigation were also within safe limits for both seasons. The Hazard Indices of these metals in both seasons were less than one (<1), indicating minimal or no significant health risks. The individual Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risks for Chromium, Cadmium, and Lead ranged from 10-7 to 10-4, which are considered acceptable. Therefore, the consumption of shrimps from Great Kwa River is unlikely to pose a significant carcinogenic risk associated with the examined metals.
Musculoskeletal Related Disorders among Electrical Employees in Southeast, Nigeria
There is insufficient literature on the musculoskeletal related disorders among electrical employees in South-East, Nigeria. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and pattern of distribution of musculoskeletal disorders among electrical employees in south-east, Nigeria. Socio-demographic characteristics, job background, prevalence and pattern of MSDs of 109 electrical employees (19-57 years) were investigated using a standard Nordic questionnaire. The data collected was analysed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 20. Results of the study revealed a high rate of MSD among electrical employees (88.1%). The most affected regions were neck (55.0%), followed by the lower back and shoulders (51.4% each), then the upper back (46.8%), wrists/hands (44.0%), Knees (36.7%), hips/thighs and ankles/feet (33.0% each), the elbow (29.4%). There was a significant relationship between the prevalence of musculoskeletal related disorders and the highest educational status of the electrical employees. A high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders exists among electrical employees. Trainings on correct ergonomic practices is recommended to be carried out in this population.
Dermatoglyphics of Children Diagnosed with Inguino-Genital Swelling Compared with their Biological Parents.
Inguino-genital swelling that are non-inflammatory may be hernias or hydroceles and are inheritable. This study aims to investigate dermatoglyphics as non-invasive screening tool for inguino-genital predisposition within families. Fingerprints of 27 affected children (AC) [25 males, 2 females], 34 parents of affected children [8 fathers, 28 mothers], 32 non-affected children (NAC) [22 males, 10 females], and 36 parents of non-affected children [6 fathers, 30 mothers] were obtained from the University College Hospital and Adeoyo Specialist Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Data were analysed with Automated Fingerprint Identification System and STATA software (P≤0.05). In AC and their mothers and NAC and their mothers, arch was statistically significant in the right fingers (RF). In AC and their fathers and NAC and their fathers, the ulnar loop was statistically significant in RF. Absolute finger ridge count was significant in RF of AC and their fathers and NAC and their fathers. In minutiae, the bifurcation and double bifurcation were statistically significant in the left fingers (LF) of AC and NAC. In AC and their mothers and NAC and their mothers, opposed bifurcation was statistically significant in LF. In AC and their fathers and NAC and their fathers, double bifurcation, bridge, dot, and break were statistically significant in LF, lake was significant in both RF and LF. There were weak positive and negative correlations in the patterns and minutiae distributions between AC and their parents. This study may be used as a marker alongside other genetic markers to identify predisposition to inguino-genital swellings of non-inflammatory, hereditary origin
Health Care Providers’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice Towards Prevention and Control of Childhood Tuberculosis in Primary Health Care Centres in Ibadan, Nigeria
Nigeria is one of the 30 high tuberculosis burden countries globally. Childhood tuberculosis has been identified as a hidden epidemic with a large proportion of the cases remaining undetected. For many years, tuberculosis control programmes have focused on adults, programmes and studies specific to childhood tuberculosis should be prioritized. Healthcare providers are frontline workers fighting against tuberculosis, their knowledge, attitude, and practices are essential to tuberculosis control. This study assessed knowledge, attitude and practice on prevention and control of childhood tuberculosis in selected primary health care (PHC) centres in three Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria. A cross-sectional design was employed in the study. A total of 270 participants were selected using multistage sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data which were analysed and presented in percentages. Association between variables were tested with chi-square and Fisher’s exact test at 0.05 level of significance. Overall, 215 (79.65) of the participants were female, 125 (46.3%) were nurses/midwives, only 27 (10%) ever attended a training on tuberculosis in the preceding 12 months. Sixty-nine (25.6%) had good knowledge, 46 (17%) had positive attitude, while 74 (27.4%) had good practice of childhood tuberculosis prevention and control. Good knowledge was found to have significant association with good practice among the participants (P=0.000). The study revealed poor knowledge, attitude and practice towards childhood tuberculosis prevention and control among PHC providers in selected centres in Ibadan, Nigeria. Training and re-training of PHC providers on tuberculosis is recommended at grassroot level.
Effects of acute noise stress on cognitive performance and lipid peroxidation among young male and female Wistar rats
Noise has been reported to have deleterious effect; this effect seems to be gender sensitive. This study evaluated the effects of acute noise on cognitive performance in young females and males Wistar rats. Wistar rats weighing 70 to 120 g were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6). Group 1(Female experimental), Group 2 (Male experimental), Group 3 (Female control), and Group 4 (Male control).The experimental groups were exposed to noise 4 hours daily for 14 days consecutively, and their cognitive abilities tested on day 15.Vital samples; brain and serum were collected for biochemical and histological analysis. The homogenate was used to evaluate the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), while serum for corticosterone and H and E stains for cytoarchitectural changes. Mean differences were calculated using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) factors; sex and stress. Discrimination index (DI) decreased in females, compared to males in the experimental groups. The mean values of corticosterone and MDA increased in females compared to males in the experimental and control groups. Cytoarchitectural change was not pronounced. Acute noise exposure impaired cognitive functions in both young male and female Wistar rats and caused elevated levels of MDA, an indicator of lipid peroxidation. These findings suggested noise stress impaired cognition, and the impact may be more pronounced in female rats compared to males.
Urogenital Colonization and Characterization of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Gram-Negative Isolates From Infertile Women at Selected Hospitals in Ibadan, Nigeria
Antimicrobial resistance as a result of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase production among Gram- negative bacteria to commonly prescribed antibiotics is increasing all over the world. ESBL production among urinary-pathogens may predispose women to treatment failure as a result of resistance to antibiotics and increases the risk for various reproductive dysfunctions that can precipitate infertility. In this study, ESBL-producing gram negative isolates from urine and high vaginal swab of infertile women were investigated for a period of one year (2020 and 2021). Urine and high vaginal swabs were taken from 140 infertile women (mean age of 26 and 33) for cases of primary and secondary infertility respectively. Standard microbiological analysis including microscopy, culture and sensitivity using the VITEK-2 automated compact system and disk diffusion method were employed. Detection of ESBL phenotypes among the isolates was conducted using double disc synergy test. Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were identified as follows and in this respective proportion (72%, 64%, 43%) with Klebsiella pneumoniae being the most prevalent. ESBL-production was detected in 62.9% of isolates with multi-drug resistance potential. The overall prevalence of Carbapenem sensitivity was high for all isolates except for Escherichia coli with 50% resistance expressed. Infertile women had a significant colonization of ESBL-producing pathogen in their urinary tract, may suffer the risk of transmission of infection to the reproductive tract; an important risk factor for reproductive dysfunctions to be addressed. These findings emphasized the need to embrace regular periodic surveillance of antimicrobial resistance and access to molecular screening towards treatment of bacterial infections
Production and Processing Effect on Antioxidant Properties of Jam Produced from Apple (Malus Domestica) and Orange (Citrus Sinensis) Fruits.
Phytochemical content of fruits and their processed products have been linked to their protection against chronic and degenerative diseases as reported in a quite number of studies. Food loss can be attributed to affluent people's willful food waste, avoidable handling/processing operation losses, or losses suffered as a result of the perishability of many agricultural products. The goal of this study was to make jam from apple and orange fruits, evaluates the processing effect on antioxidant properties, assess the organoleptic quality and acceptability of jam produced. Samples of Malus domestica and Citrus sinensis, were purchased from open markets in Ibadan .Jam from samples was produced and were brought to laboratory in a sterilized jars. Laboratory analysis was used to determine flavonoid, vitamin C, total phenol, total antioxidant activity, pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solid (oBrix). The total soluble solids increased significantly (p< 0.05) ranging from (54.00 to 61.00°Brix), total phenolic content ranging from (2.21 to 2.24), total antioxidant capacity ranging from (56.56 to 58.36) and there was decrease in pH, titratable acidity and vitamin C of both samples. The sensory evaluation shows that orange jam was more accepted in terms of flavor and colour, apple jam was accepted in terms of taste, and acceptability in, texture was high for both, the overall acceptability was higher in apple jam. It was therefore concluded that thermal processing does not significantly deteriorate health-promoting antioxidant properties in these fruits.
In vivo and in silico evaluation of the hepatoprotective potential of aqueous extract of Albizia zygia on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in Wistar albino rats
Albizia zygia DC (Fabaceae) is widely used for the traditonal treatment of malaria, female sterility, yaws, sores, wounds, toothache and bronchial diseases. This present study investigated the in vivo and in silico effects of the aqueous extract of Albizia zygia (AEAZ) leaves on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in wistar albino rats. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) was dissolved in parafin (1:1) and administered at a dose of 1ml/kg (i.p.) on the first day. Similarly, groups III, IV and V were treated with carbon tetrachloride at the same dose on the first day followed by oral administration of quercetin (20mg/kg) and AEAZ (100mg/kg and 200mg/ kg body weight) respectively for seven days Molecular docking analysis was conducted using Autodock Vina from PyRX to determine the binding affinities and interactions between compounds present in AEAZ and cytochrome P450 2E1. Carbon tetrachloride administration caused significant increases in liver enzymes as well as MDA levels and a reduction in SOD, catalase and glutathione. Histology of the liver sections reveal that the normal liver morphology was affected by carbon tetrachloride administration. The result exhibited a significant (p< 0.05) protective effect against CCl4 toxicity by lowering serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP and increasing glutathione, SOD and catalase. The integrity of the hepatocytes was also preserved. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of several compounds which when subjected to molecular docking demonstrated varying degrees of binding affinities. Our findings showed that AEAZ was able to protect the animal from carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage. This study therefore suggests that the extract possesses hepatoprotective activities
Effect of Supportive Education on Knowledge and Practice of Kangaroo-Mother-Care in Pre-term and Low-Birth-Weight Babies Management in Selected Communities in Enugu State, Southeastern Nigeria
This study assessed the effect of supportive education on the knowledge and practice of kangaroo-mother-care (KMC) in the management of pre-mature and low-birth-weight babies in selected communities in Enugu State. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest, non-randomized design was adopted. A sample size of 332 postnatal mothers from the two community health centers under study was determined using power analysis. A structured questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. Data were descriptively analyzed with SPSS version 22, while inferential statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test, independent t test, and one-way analysis of variance. Results with a p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results of major findings showed that mothers&#39; knowledge of KMC improved after the intervention, from an average score of 34.8% to 85.6% and 31.9% to 69.2%, with mean and standard deviations of 6.8±2.6 and 5.6±2.9 in the experimental and control groups, respectively. The practice of KMC also improved after the intervention, from 30% to 76.6% and 36.4% to 73.5%, with mean and standard deviations of 7.7±1.2 and 6.6±1.5 in the experimental and control groups, respectively. There was a significant difference in mothers knowledge of KMC between the experimental and control groups before the intervention (t =2.6 and p = 0.010) and after the supportive intervention (t = 3.7 and p = 0.000). There was no significant difference in the influence of socio-demographic characteristics of mothers and the practice of KMC after intervention in both groups: educational status (F = 0.3 and p = 0.801), marital age (F = 0.3 and p = 0.889), and parity (F = 0.1 and p = 0.965). In conclusion, participants with supportive education interventions (experimental group) performed better than those with normal health education (control group).
Prevalence and Determinants of Disordered Eating Behaviours and Feeding and Eating Disorders among Schooling Adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria
Feeding and Eating disorders (FEDs) are the third commonest chronic condition in adolescents, after obesity and asthma, and are often preceded by disordered eating behaviours (DEBs) which are abnormal eating patterns that predispose to FEDs. They constitute public health importance as a result of significant association with decreased quality of life, and substantial medical and psychiatric complications among adolescents. The prevalence of DEBs and FEDs has been on the increase in the western world following the onset of the pandemic with varying reports in developing countries. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the prevalence of DEBs and FEDs, the associated sociodemographic correlates, determinants and their relationship with nutritional status. In a descriptive cross-sectional study design, 411 schooling adolescents aged 13 to 19 years were selected using a multistage random sampling technique and a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and other determinants. The SCOFF screening tool and DSM V diagnostic tool were used to identify those with DEBs and FEDs respectively. Participants’ weight and height were measured, their nutritional status classified using the WHO z-score. All data were analyzed using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Science version 20.0. The participants comprised 180 males (43.79%) and 231 females (56.21%) with a male to female ratio of 1:1.28. Our data showed that more than one (28.22%) out of every four participants has DEBs, and more than half (61.4%) of all the participants have one sub-type of FEDs or the other. The presence of chronic illness (OR=4.43), the effect of peer pressure on eating habits (OR=2.16), parental concern about body image (OR=2.12) and recent major life events (1.79) were independently associated with both DEB and FEDs, and there is a statistically significant association between FEDs and nutritional status but not with DEBs. We concluded that DEBs and FEDs are common among schooling adolescents in IBNLGA. Thus, there is a need for increased public awareness and deliberate efforts at prevention and early identification through routine screening in secondary schools. Special attention must also be given to the eating habits of adolescents with chronic illnesses
Prevalence of HPV 16 and 18 among women attending O & G Cytology Room UCH, Ibadan
Compression and release properties of two-step modified rice starch and lactose blends in paracetamol tablet formulations
Starches have been physically and/or chemically modified to improve their functional capacities, subsequently enhancing their use as excipients. Rice starch (Oryza sativa L. Family: Poaceae), was exposed to two-step modification and co-blended with lactose. The blends were incorporated in paracetamol formulations and evaluated for compression and release properties. Rice starch was simultaneously pregelatinized and silicified before co-blending with lactose at different ratios to obtain DMRS/L1:1, DMRS/L1:2, DMRS/L2:1. Similar blends containing unmodified rice starch and lactose (URS/L1:1, URS/L1:2, URS/L2:1) were also made. Density measurements, compressibility, surface morphology, particle size and FTIR spectroscopy were the assessment criteria for the blends, which were incorporated in paracetamol tablet formulations and evaluated for their release properties. Results were statistically evaluated using ANOVA at a significance level of p-values<0.05. Density measurements revealed higher angles of repose for the denser unmodified blends, indicating an enhancement of flow properties. DMRS/L1:2 and DMRS/L2:1 had good compressibility based on the Carr’s indices of 24.17±0.02% and 21.78±0.16% respectively. Generally, the modified powder blends were more spherical, however DMRS/L2:1 had the largest particle size (39.58±2.37µm), while URS/L1:1 had the smallest particle size (11.50±1.31µm). Modification incorporated more functional groups without compromising the basic starch integrity as observed in the FTIR plots. Tablets containing modified starches disintegrated and released the API faster, with the formulation containing DMRS/L1:2 showing the fastest release rate. Dual modification involving simultaneous pregelatinization and silicification of rice starch led to enhanced functional properties when blended with lactose and showed better tablet qualities when incorporated as excipients.
Molecular Epidemiology of Canine Parvovirus in Nigeria
The emergence of canine parvovirus (CPV) in 1978, probably as a result of the cross-species incursion of feline panleukopenia virus, resulted in the current pandemic of canine parvoviral enteritis. It has been 40 years since the virus was first identified in Nigeria and it has been afflicting dog population in the country unabatedly. As such, in this review, CPV molecular epidemiology in Nigeria entailing its prevalence, occurrence of subtypes, co-infection and genetic evolution are analysed. All the three subtypes of the virus have been identified in the country with CPV-2a subtype being preponderant. However, in recent years there has been an upsurge in the number of CPV-2c and it is often associated with bloody diarrhoea even in vaccinated puppies. Therefore, there is need for proper assessment of the molecular epidemiology of the virus for proper institution of effective control policies to eradicate this pathogen
Practice and Outcome of Umbilical Cord Care among Recently-Delivered Mothers Attending Postnatal Clinics in Ibadan, Nigeria
One of the main causes of neonatal deaths, particularly in low- and middle-income nations, has been identified as umbilical cord infection. In the first four weeks of life, 4 million (3.1 percent) of the 130 million babies born worldwide each year die. Due to their high susceptibility to infections, newborns' umbilical cord care requires extra care in order to reduce neonatal fatalities. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and practice of umbilical cord care as well as the results of the care among recently delivered mothers visiting postnatal clinics in Ibadan, Nigeria. The three hospitals chosen for this cross-sectional study represent Nigeria's three levels of healthcare institutions. The enrolment of study participants used a simple random sampling technique. Data were gathered using a self-structured questionnaire with a reliability rating of 0.76. Utilizing SPSS version 20 for data analysis, chi-square was used to test the hypothesis at the 0.05 level of significance. Results from the study showed that only 34.7% of the mothers who had just given birth had good knowledge of umbilical cord care, while 55.3% had good practice. Only 5.3% of the mothers reported negative outcome while caring the for umbilical cord at home. Fever (3.4 percent), yellowish discharge from the umbilical cord (1.5 percent), reddish skin directly beneath the cord (1.4 percent), discomfort near the umbilical stump (1.4 percent), and foul-smelling cord are some of the negative outcomes that mothers have reported (0.7 percent ).A total number of 58.1% of the mothers reported that the umbilical stump detachment lasted 5-15 days, while 38.1% of them reported that navel healing lasted for 4-6 weeks. A significant association was found between monthly income and materials used for umbilical cord care after delivery (χ2=18.467, df=6, p=0.005) Many recently-delivered mothers lack adequate knowledge of umbilical cord care, yet, most of them had good umbilical cord care practices because they delivered their babies in the hospital. There is report of negative outcome of umbilical cord care, though very few, this is detrimental to the survival of the new-borns. Mothers’ economic status is associated with the materials used for umbilical cord care, which consequently determines the outcome of the cord care practices.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Cereal farmers about rodent damage and management in Ife Central Local Government, Osun State, Nigeria
Rodents are one of the constraints of crop production in south western Nigeria. Some species have also been implicated as the vector of zoonotic diseases. In Nigeria, farmers usually contend with the problem of rodent damage and management. The present study was therefore aimed at harvesting the experiences of farmers about damage due to rodent and its management in the cereal crops farming system in Ife Central Local Government, Ile-Ife, South-West, Nigeria. Data were collected using questionnaires which were administered to 100 randomly selected farmers in the study area. The data collected were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 and descriptive statistics (Frequency and percentages) were computed. The cereal crop identified to suffer rodent damage was maize - field (54.0%) and store (61.0%). Maturity stage was identified as the most susceptible stage to rodent damage in cereal crop production (38.0%). Inputs used for rodent management were obtained from Agrovets (48.0%) and local markets (43.0%). Most farmers (38.0%) usually start rodent management after noticing damage. Most frequently used rodent management method was rodenticides (44.0%). Most of the farmers (87.0%) were willing to cooperate for management of rodent. Majority of the farmers (83.0%) have enjoyed government support in rodent management in the past. Conclusively, rodent species usually attack maize crop both on the crop field and in the store. Rodenticides and environmental sanitation have been the commonly used rodent management methods
In vitro Anti-microbial and free radical scavenging activity of Zinc(II), Copper(II), Cobalt(II) and Cadmium(II) Ions Coordinated with N-(pyridin-4-yl)(tolu-4-yl)sulphonamide
The rising use of antibiotics and antioxidants in medicine and animal care has primarily contributed to antibiotic-resistant microbes, decreased oxidative stress, and prompted the hunt for novel and effective medications. This study reports the synthesis, bioactivity, and radical scavenging potential of N-(pyridin-4-yl)(tolu-4-yl)sulphonamide coordinated with zinc (II), copper (II), cobalt (II), and cadmium (II) ions. The condensation reaction of 4-aminopyridine and tosyl chloride produced the sulphonamide derivative. The complexes were synthesized by the reaction of ZnCl2 /Cu(NO3)2.6H2O, Co(NO3)2.6H2O, Cd(NO3)2.6H2O with the sulphonamide derivative. The antimicrobial analysis was conducted via the conventional method, and the free radical scavenging activity was achieved through the use of a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) solution. These compounds were characterized by physicochemical analysis, UV-VIS, FT-IR, NMR (1H and 13C) and LC-MS. The ligand and its new complexes were tested against gram (-) Escherichia coli, gram (-) Salmonella typhi, gram (+) Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The findings revealed that some of the complexes have significant activity against some pathogens and show good free radical scavenging activity. The heterocyclic pyridine nitrogen in the sulphonamide is a good site for complaxation, and the methods employed and the synthesized compounds are viable sources of knowledge for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The study recommends further investigation into the formation of new complexes and their bioactivity with other clinical pathogens
Knowledge and Attitudes of Nursing and Medical Students of a Nigerian University Towards the Care of Older Persons
There is a growing number of older persons globally. Geriatric Care is however evolving in Africa. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and the attitude of nursing and medical students of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria towards the care of older persons. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study using self-administered questionnaires among 311 students comprising 258 (83%) medical students and 53 (17%) nursing students to assess their knowledge, attitude and older person's care experience. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27 (SPSS-27) software. Data were summarized using frequency and percentages and presented in tables and figures. Chi-Square was used for the test of association between knowledge and attitude scores and socio-demography. The level of significance was set at 5%. The mean ages of respondents were 23.48±2.367 and 21.26±1.571 for medical students and nursing students, respectively. Majority of the respondents, 244 (94.6%) and 36 (67.9%) were older than 20 years old. Majority of Nursing 48 (90.6%) and Medical Students 201 (77.9%) had poor knowledge of caring for older persons. However, more than two thirds 34 (64.2%) and 173 (67.1%) of the medical and nursing students respectively, had a good attitude towards the care of older persons. More female medical 32 (26.2%), and nursing students 5 (10.4%) had good knowledge compared to their male colleagues (25, 18.4%), (0, 0.0%). (p= 1.000). Majority of medical and nursing students at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria have limited knowledge but a good attitude towards the care of older people. Hence, there is a need to include geriatrics-specific courses into their training curriculum
Spousal Support Practices Among Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Spousal role in maternal health is frequently ignored by health programs in emerging countries. This study examined the level of spousal support for good pregnancy outcome among women attending antenatal clinic at Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. This study was conducted among 398 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at the study location. Semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The mean age of respondents was 30±5.6years. 55.5% were Muslims while 44.5% were Christians. Less than half (47.5%) of the respondents had tertiary education. 50.8% of the respondents’ stated that their spouse encouraged them to register at the hospital; and almost all (97%) of the respondents indicated that their spouse supported their antenatal care attendance. Moreover, 63.1% of the respondents stated that their husbands did not accompany them to antenatal classes which was as a result of their work. More than half (52.8%) of the respondents indicated that their husbands accompanied them for ultrasound scan and 91.0% of the respondents stated that their husbands’ saved money towards their delivery in case of emergency and referral. Overall results displayed that 88% of respondents had good spousal support practices while 12% had fair spousal support practices. The findings of the study revealed that level of spousal support among pregnant women in the study location was high
Evaluation of species composition and food preferences of rodent pest species in some selected vegetations in Ibadan, South West Nigeria
The species among rodents that are pests have been identified as those that are highly destructive pest species which inflict serious damage to food produce while some are carriers of zoonotic diseases. However, they also play vital ecological roles in the ecosystem as they aide in soil mixing and aeration, serve as dispersal agents and prey-base for predatory species. Studying the food preferences of the rodent species could help in their effective management. Sampling of small mammal species (rodents and insectivores) was carried out in six selected vegetations between 2019 and 2021, within the University of Ibadan premises. Ten (10) snap traps were set for three (3) consecutive nights per month for 24 months in each sampling site. Seven species of rodents were encountered which include Cricetomys gambianus, Arvicanthis niloticus, Rattus rattus, R. norvegicus, Lemniscomys striatus, Funisciurus anerythrus, and Crocidura olivieri. The stomach contents of the snap-trapped species were removed and analysed to know their food preferences. The diets of all the snap trapped rodent species contained vegetable matters but in varying percentage. Cricetomys gambianus had the highest mean wet (6.76 ± 1.58) and dry (4.97 ± 1.20) content weights. Diet diversity was highest in C. gambianus (7.63) in F. anerythrus (2.82) but the difference in the diet diversity of the species showed no statistical significance (p˃0.05). The vegetable matters which form one of the major diets of the captured species indicates their preferences for plant matters and these could be used as a bait or delivery medium for natural products of rodenticidal and/or abortifacient potential
Cnidoscolus aconitifolius Extract Represses Nociception Via Opiodergic And Cholinergic Pathways In Laboratory Mice
Cnidoscolus aconitifolius plant has been shown to have antinociceptive effect, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. This study examined the antinociceptive mechanisms of action C. aconitifolius by probing the opiodergic, cholinergic, and adrenergic systems. Behavioural assessments of pain were done using the paw licking test caused by formalin, abdominal writhing induced by acetic acid and tail-flick tests. Methanol extract of C. aconitifolius (MECA) significantly reduces nociception in the paw licking ibduced by formalin and abdominal writhing induced by acetic acid but not tail flick test. Pretreatment with opoidergic and cholinergic blockers reversed these effects but not adrenergic blocker. MECA can be said to potentiate its antinociceptive effect by acting peripherally in the manner of opioidergic and cholinergic agents.
Effectiveness of Midwife-led Structured Education Intervention on Optimal Breastfeeding Knowledge Among Primigravid Women in Nigeria: A Randomised Control Trial
Breastmilk is a priceless essential food for the first six months of life and yet sub-Saharan Africa has neonatal deaths attributed to sub optimal breastfeeding. The study assessed the effectiveness of lecture and lecture with demonstration in optimal breastfeeding knowledge among women. The study adopted a quasi-experimental randomized design. A sample of 141 was determined from a population of 191 primigravid women attending antenatal clinics in General Hospitals Enugu Nigeria. A researcher developed validated was used to collect data from 63 intervention and 76 control group. A pretest was conducted and intervention was given to the participants while posttests were conducted at different times after intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Descriptive statistics was used to present sociodemographic variables and objectives of the study while inferential statistics were used to ascertain the effectiveness of the intervention. at 0.05 level of significance. Results showed that most of the participants were in the age range of 21-30 years. The Pre-intervention knowledge level was poor in both groups and after intervention knowledge levels increased over time higher in the intervention than in the control group. Hypotheses tested revealed that educational interventions were effective as those in the intervention groups were significantly more knowledgeable than those in the control group. Antenatal care attendance was a significant predictor of knowledge of optimal breastfeeding. The researcher concluded that lectures with demonstration during antenatal are effective in improving knowledge level of optimal breastfeeding and recommended that authorities implement policy instituting breastfeeding support groups in hospitals.
GC-FID quantification of phytochemicals and radical scavenging potentials of nanosuspension of Annona muricata leaf extract
Several bioactive principles of plant extracts exhibit poor absorption and bioavailability due to their high molecular size or poor aqueous solubility. Nanoformulations of herbal drugs have emerged as essential tools to enhance bioavailability, solubility, drug retention time, and delivery while minimizing toxic effects. This can potentially strengthen the action of herbal extracts, reduce dosage and side effects, and improve bioactivity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radical scavenging activity of nanosuspension of Annona muricata leaf extract and quantify its phytoconstituents using a gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Extraction of crude extract and quantification of phytochemicals by GC-FID was done. The in vitro antioxidant activity of the crude extract and nanosuspension of Annona muricata were evaluated using the DPPH scavenging activity and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The particle size analysis of the nanosuspension showed that particles were in the nano-range with average particle size of 73.35 nm and polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.404. The results also revealed that the nanoformulation augmented the antioxidant potentials of the crude extract of Annona muricata. At a concentration of 20 mg/ml, the percentage scavenging activity increased significantly (p < 0.05) from 71.24% for crude to 95.39% for nanosuspension, even higher than ascorbic acid (standard) which stood at 82.36%. Annona muricata is a powerful antioxidant agent and the use of nanotechnology can resolve some of the inherent biopharmaceutical shortcomings of herbal materials and serve as a tool for optimizing the bioactivity of the active components of plant extracts in herbal formulation.
Knowledge and Attitude towards Mental Illness among In-School Adolescents in Enugu, Nigeria
The knowledge of mental health in adolescents is essential because it empowers them with the skills to build better lives, positive attitudes, better systems of care and better society. In most societies today, mental illness has become a global problem, affecting people of all ages at any given point in time. And poor knowledge of mental illness has led to negative attitude towards mental illness and people living with it in different communities and has contributed to low treatment seeking and stigmatization of people with mental illness. This study was aimed at assessing the knowledge and attitude towards mental illness among in-school adolescents. A descriptive survey design was used for the study. Using a multi stage sampling procedure, two secondary schools in Enugu were randomly (balloting) selected for the study. Simple random sampling method was used to select a sample of 140 in-school adolescent students aged 15-19 years who met the inclusion criteria was used. Data was collected using the validated Disposition towards Mental Illness Scale to determine the adolescents’ level of knowledge of mental illness and attitude towards mental illness. The overall level of knowledge of mental illness among in-school adolescents was generally low (42.1%) and the overall attitude towards mental illness was high and positive (71.3%). There is need to improve the knowledge of mental health and mental illness among adolescents for proper psychosocial development and improved mental wellbeing
A Systematic Review on Adolescent Contraceptive Usage
A systematic review of the literature was conducted to describe the available data on adolescent contraceptive usage. The keywords used in the search include: adolescent, contraceptive use, contraceptives, adolescent reproductive health disease in PUBMED, MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, Nursing and Allied Health, and SAGE, which resulted in a total of 452 published papers. The researcher ensured that the articles/journals were materials of high quality which satisfied the following characteristics of inclusion such as; there was a title for each paper, the name(s) of the author(s) was/were clearly written on the papers, the paper must have been published between the years 2014 and 2022 and the paper must be available in academic search tools and databases, published by official and credible sources. A total of 13 relevant journal articles were believed to be suitable for inclusion by the researcher in the systematic review.
Validity and Reliability of the Home Management of Diarrhoea Assessment Scale for Mothers in Nigeria: A Rasch Analysis
In Nigeria, 151,700 children die every year from diarrhoea disease. The use of a valid and reliable tool for eliciting information on what mothers do at home to manage diarrhoea is critical for healthcare providers and researchers. The study aimed to develop and validate the Home Management of Diarrhoea Assessment Scale (HMDAS) using Rasch Analysis among mothers of under-fives in Nigeria. The cross-sectional survey design was employed among 376 mothers in one selected local government area in each of the 6 geopolitical zones of Nigeria recruited using multi-stage sampling technique. Ethical approval was from Health Research Ethics committee of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu State. Data were collected for 6 months and were subjected to descriptive statistics and Rasch analysis with the aid of SPSS version 23 and jamovi software version 64.2. The HMDAS was developed after indepth literature review and 3 rounds of input from 5 expert reviewers. fit analysis revealed that 12 items were misfits and were expunged from the tool. The HMDAS was found to be unidimensional with eigen value of less than 1. Item and person separation index of the HMDAS were 11.1917 and 2.0123 respectively. Item and the person reliability index of the HMDAS were 0.9121 and 0.0820. The HMDAS was concluded to be a reliable and valid tool for data collection. It was recommended that the HMDAS should be utilized in generating data that can be used for designing interventions aimed at stemming the tide of diarrhoea in Nigeria
Geospatial Analysis of Malaria Prevalence among Children Under Five Years in Jigawa State, North West, Nigeria
Malaria is a contagious disease whose spread is influenced by a number of environmental and anthropogenic factors. It is still regarded as a serious public health concern especially in Africa south of the Sahara. The goal of this study was to use environmental and anthropogenic parameters to create malaria risk map in Jigawa state using GIS (Geographic Information System). Eleven parameters: temperature, rainfall, elevation, slope, distance to rivers, distance to stagnant water bodies, distance to wet lands, distance to roads, population density, LULC (land use/land cover) and distance to healthcare facilities were considered to produced malaria risk map for the area. Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE) method was used to map the malaria risk by reclassifying all the factors and assigning weights to each one based on how well-suited they were for the risk of malaria. The final malaria risk map for the area was created using the weighted overlay procedures in the ArcGis spatial analyst tool using assigned values of various risk factors. The malaria risk levels result reveals that 46.07%, 33.71%, 9.94% and 10.28% of the study area fall under low, moderate, high and very high malaria risk levels. This result shows that one-fifth of the study area was subjected to high and very high risk levels of malaria. It is suggested that effective identification and mapping of malaria-risk levels can be made using geospatial tools, to contribute for the prevention and control of this disease.
GIS, Jigawa, Malaria risk, weighted overlay