| 1 |
Author(s):
Hameeda Ibrahim Ahmed Mustafa, Bakheta Adil Jalal Mnallah, Zeinab Hamadalneel Ahmed Muhammed, Marwa Muhammad Saeed Mustafa, Hiba Ismael Musa Mohajer.
Page No : 1-12
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Screening of Urine Cytology for changes Due to Long Term Effects of Urinary Schistosomiasis in Managil City, Gezira State, Sudan.
Abstract
Schistosomiasis or bilharziasis is water-borne flatworms affects approximately 200 million people worldwide. This cross sectional laboratory based study to screen urine for cytological changes in urinary Schistosomiasis patients, in individual previously diagnose. From 89 patients (88 male and 1 female) represented the study group voided urine samples collected in sterile container, centrifuged and prepare as monolayer smear, fixed before air dying in 95% ethanol and stain by pap stain. The results was:
The majority of study group 36/89 (40%) were workers and 53/89 (60%) students. Most affected group age range (11-20) years. Microscopic examination demonstrate urine crystals 24/89 (27%) samples, while 65/89 (73%) of samples were negative.11/89 (12%) contains yeast cells and 78/89 (88%) were negative. 5/89 (6%) contains urine cast and 84/89 (94%) were negative. Positive cases as follow: 3/5 hyaline cast and 2/5 cellular cast. Most of the smears were hypocellular (3-5 cells/field). Cellularity according to the type of cells: normal urothelial cell present in (9) samples (10%) intermediated epithelial cells present in (8) samples (9%). Corpora amylacea present in (5) samples (6%). Condyloma acuinatum present in (1) sample (1%). Cells show Koliocytosis similar to that of cervical infection. One patient has hematouria (1%) with elements indicate active cystitis. In addition to this sample another (16) samples to give total 17/89 that account (19%).
| 2 |
Author(s):
Foluso Olamide Ojo, Hasiya Sule Buba, Abubakar Muhammad Bello, Wusa Makena, Sani Hyedima Garba, Luqman Adepoju Hassan, Fatsuma Buba Jajere.
Page No : 13-24
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Neuroprotective Effects of Curcuma Longa on Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Neurotoxicity on the Cerebrum and Hippocampus of Albino Wistar Rats.
Abstract
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, and current anti-epileptic drugs often have side effects. Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including the treatment of neurological disorders. This study investigates the neuroprotective effects of Curcuma longa in pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced epilepsy in albino rats. Group one received normal feed (control), Group two received PTZ to induce epilepsy intraperitoneally. Group three received PTZ with feed, Group four received a low dose of Curcuma longa with PTZ, and Group five received high dose of Curcuma longa with PTZ. The experiment lasted for 28 days, during which seizure severity and neurotoxicity were assessed. The results revealed that PTZ administration significantly increased seizure severity and frequency, as well as oxidative stress and neuroinflammatory markers. Treatment with Curcuma longa extract, particularly at the low dose and high dose, significantly reduced oxidative stress and neuro inflammation and improving neuroprotection. These findings suggest that Curcuma longa extract may have potential neuroprotective effects and anticonvulsant property making it a promising candidate for adjunctive therapy in epilepsy management.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Hassan Luqman Adepoju, Adamu Shettima Pogu, Lawal Rasheed Tunde, Foluso Olamide Ojo, Abdul Dimeji Ishola, Hasiya Sule Buba.
Page No : 25-35
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Ameliorative Effects of Tannin Fractionate of Cyperus Esculentus Tuber on Lead-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Rats.
Abstract
Aims: Hepatoprotective activity of the tannin fraction of Cyperus esculentus was studied against lead-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats.
Materials and Methods: Twenty adult male Wistar rats were divided into four (4) groups, (A-D) (n=5). Group A was administered normal saline only. Groups B, C, and D were fed 30mg/kg body weight of lead. Additionally, groups C and D were administered with 50mg/kg body weight and 100mg/kg body weight of tannin fraction of Cyperus esculentus respectively orally for 28 days. The following day after the last administration, the animals were sacrificed under 50 mg/kg body weight of thiopental anesthesia, and blood samples were obtained through the intra-cardiac puncture to assay the levels of liver enzymes [Aspartate transaminase (AST) and Alanine transaminase (ALT)] and oxidative stress markers [malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT)]. The liver of the rats was harvested, weighed, and fixed in 10% formol saline and sectioned for histological studies using hematoxylin and eosin.
Results: Results showed that treatment with lead was associated with decreased levels of SOD, CAT, GSH, and increased MDA activities. Also observed is a significant increase in liver enzymes (AST and ALT) in the Lead-treated group. The histological result revealed alterations of hepatic structure including hepatocytic vacuolations and sinusoidal congestion following lead treatment. While treatment with tannin fraction of Cyperus esculentus prevented and reversed lead-induced hepatic injury.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Osuoha Chinyere Beatrice, Treasure Njideka Njoku-Obi, David Chinaecherem Innocent, Igiri Vivian Chika, Ugonma Winnie Dozie.
Page No : 36-46
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A Narrative Review of Appointment and Medication Adherence in Socio-Demographic Contexts.
Abstract
Background: Mobile health (mHealth) interventions are crucial for enhancing healthcare delivery, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite its potential, socio-demographic differences, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, continue to influence patterns of adoption, access, and effectiveness of digital health solutions. These discrepancies are particularly prominent in communities co-infected with HIV and tuberculosis (TB), where mHealth has the potential to alter adherence and treatment delivery.
Aim: This narrative review examines how socio-demographic variables (age, gender, education, income, and geographic location) impact mHealth adherence and uptake among HIV/TB co-infected individuals.
Method: The review uses a narrative synthesis technique, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AJOL, and Google Scholar were some of the databases searched. The inclusion criteria were based on empirical studies on mHealth, HIV/TB co-infection, and socio-demographic disparities. Thematic analysis was used to organise findings based on major demographic features without the limits of systematic review methodology.
Findings: The analysis reveals that age and gender have a substantial impact on mHealth literacy and autonomy, whereas education levels correlate with app usability and SMS comprehension. Income and rural residence also hamper device access and network dependability. Policy fragmentation and digital illiteracy remain implementation impediments, whereas participatory design and public-private partnerships emerge as enablers.
Conclusion: One-size-fits-all mHealth strategies are insufficient. Equity-informed, context-specific frameworks that incorporate socio-demographic profiling into design, implementation, and assessment are critical for long-term effect.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Osuoha Chinyere Beatrice, Treasure Njideka Njoku-Obi, Igiri Vivian Chika, Ugonma Winnie Dozie, David Chinaecherem Innocent.
Page No : 47-60
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Integrated Mobile Health Interventions on CD4 Count Outcomes Among HIV/TB Co-Infected: An Impact Based Narrative Review.
Abstract
Background: HIV and tuberculosis (TB) co-infection is a major worldwide health issue, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, where the dual disease burden impairs clinical outcomes and healthcare system performance. Monitoring CD4 cell count is critical for managing HIV in co-infected populations since it is a crucial biomarker for immune system function, disease progression, and treatment success. Despite advances in viral load monitoring, CD4 count is still critical for commencing prophylaxis, determining ART timing, and predicting TB-related morbidity. Aim: This narrative review investigates the effect of integrated mobile health (mHealth) treatments on CD4 count outcomes in HIV/TB co-infected patients receiving clinical care.
Methods: A comprehensive search was undertaken throughout PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and WHO Global Health Library. The included studies assessed mHealth modalities such as SMS reminders, mobile apps, and teleconsultations in terms of ART adherence, clinic involvement, and CD4 restoration.
Findings: In many low- and middle-income countries, mHealth technologies promote treatment adherence and retention in care, which is indirectly connected to higher CD4 counts. However, the data is inconsistent, with some interventions having low or mixed impacts depending on context, gender, and access inequities.
Conclusion: mHealth has the potential to improve immunological results in HIV/TB co-infected people. Nonetheless, its efficacy is context-dependent, emphasising the importance of specialised, regionally adapted tactics that address infrastructure constraints, digital literacy, and patient participation. Future research must prioritise implementation science approaches in order to maximise scale-up and sustainability.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Ikimi Charles German, Frank Victory Ogadinma, Sule Olayiwola Jimoh.
Page No : 61-71
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Nephroprotective Effects of N-Hexane Extract of Jatropha Gossypifolia Leaves in Isoniazid Induced Kidney Damage in Wistar Rats.
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of n-hexane extract of Jatropha gossypifolia on isoniazid-induced kidney damage in Wistar rats. Serum levels of urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, alongside kidney tissue antioxidant activities (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA)), were assessed using standard methods. The study utilized a completely randomized block design (CRBD) with 25 rats (200g–300g) divided into five groups. Groups 1 (normal control) and 2 (positive control) received distilled water, while groups 3, 4, and 5 were pretreated with 200 mg/kg Jatropha gossypifolia extract, 400 mg/kg extract, and 200 mg/kg vitamin E, respectively. After daily pretreatment for 21 days, 50 mg/kg of isoniazid was administered to groups 2–5 to induce kidney damage. All treatments were administered orally. On day 21, the rats were sacrificed under chloroform anesthesia, and blood and kidney tissue samples were collected for analysis. Results indicated that isoniazid significantly (p<0.05) increased serum urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium, chloride, and MDA levels, while SOD, CAT, GSH, and bicarbonate activities were significantly (p<0.05) reduced compared to the normal control. However, Jatropha gossypifolia treatment (200mg/kg and 400mg/kg) significantly enhanced antioxidant activities and bicarbonate levels while reducing serum urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium, chloride, and MDA levels. These findings suggest that Jatropha gossypifolia contains antioxidant compounds that may protect against isoniazid-induced kidney damage
| 7 |
Author(s):
Ghislain Loubano-Voumbi, Cissé Bademba, Cédric Régis Boumba Makaya, Jean-Michel Biaz, Bernard Ndala, Jean Ibinda, Edvin Goma-Kouahi, Martin Inana.
Page No : 72-81
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Association Study of cAMP/EPACs Signaling Pathway Markers in Chronic Lumbar Pain in Dolisie (Congo).
Abstract
Chronic low back pain represents a major public health issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where it remains understudied. This cross-sectional case-control study, conducted in Dolisie (Congo), evaluated the involvement of cAMP/EPACs pathway markers (cyclic adenosine monophosphate and EPAC1/EPAC2 proteins) in low back pain. Seventy-five patients with chronic low back pain (pain duration ≥6 months, VAS score ≥30 mm) and 25 healthy controls were included. Intracellular concentrations of cAMP, EPAC1, and EPAC2 were measured in blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by ELISA, and pain intensity was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS). Analysis of our data showed a significant increase in cAMP (12.6 ± 2.1 for DL group against 3.2 ± 0.4 pmol/ml for TS group), EPAC1 (7.9 ± 1.2 for DL group against 2.1 ± 0.3 ng/ml for TS group) and EPAC2 (4.8 ± 0.7 for DL group against 1.5 ± 0.2 ng/ml for TS group) levels with a P value 0.05), indicating that their activation reflects a pathophysiological mechanism without a direct link to subjective pain intensity.This study reveals dysregulation of the cAMP/EPACs pathway in chronic low back pain, opening up avenues for translational research targeting EPAC1 in a Congolese context. Limitations include the lack of clinical-biological correlation and the need for longitudinal studies to establish a causal link.
| 8 |
Author(s):
Ezenwa C. M. (Ph.D.).
Page No : 82-90
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Studies on Comparative Analysis of Antimicrobial Strength of Three Over the Counter Commonly Used Antibiotics: A Case Study in Owerri Municipal.
Abstract
Antibiotics are drugs that either halt bacterial growth or kills the bacteria entirely. The comparative analysis of these three most common antibiotics used in Owerri (Ceftriaxone, Erythromycin and Amoxicillin) was carried out using Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia Coli as the test organisms. Susceptibility or sensitivity test is used to determine the antimicrobial activity of an antibacterial against an organism. Many methods can be used to carry out this test; broth diffusion, disc diffusion and automated instrument method. In the course of this work, Disc diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial strengths of the various antibiotics. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses such as common cold or influenza, drugs which inhibits viruses at termed anti-viral drugs. Antibiotics can be broad specimen or narrow specimen. Broad specimen antibiotics are those one with activity against a wide range of gram positive and gram-negative organisms. While narrow specimen antibiotics has activity against one or few types of bacteria. Antibiotics effectiveness and easy access has led to wide spread problems, so much as to prompt the World Health Organization to classify antimicrobial resistance as a serious threat, that is no longer a prediction but already in occurrence in every region of the world, and has the potential to affect anyone of any age in any country.
| 9 |
Author(s):
Okon Victoria Edem (Ph.D.).
Page No : 91-101
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Gastro-Protective Role and Effect on Glucose Metabolism of Tetrapleura Tetraptera (Aidan Fruit) Extract in Rats.
Abstract
This study investigated the gastro-protective effect of Tetrapleura tetraptera (Aidan fruit) methanol extract against ethanol-induced gastrointestinal ulcers and changes in rates of glucose metabolism in rats. Extract was prepared from the fruit and subjected to acute toxicity test. In the gastro-protective study, 40 rats assigned to 4 groups of 10 rats each were treated with graded doses of the extract for 14 days. Group 1 was untreated and served as control, group 2 was treated with 20 mg/kg body weight of Omeprazole. Groups 3 and 4 received 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively. At the end of treatment, 5 rats from each group were selected and administered 10 ml/kg of 96% ethanol to induce ulcer. After 1 hour, the induced rats were sacrificed under anaesthesia and their stomachs were harvested for macroscopic ulcer assessment. Juice collected from the stomachs were also subjected to pH, pepsin activity and total acidity tests. The remaining 5 rats from each group were also sacrificed and used for the extractible mucus weight study. In the glucose metabolism study, another set of 20 rats assigned to 4 groups of 5 rats each were treated such that while group 1 was the control, group 2 received 50 metformin (50 mg/kg body weight) and groups 3 and 4 received 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively. Thirty minutes after treatment, each rat was administered 3 ml of 50% glucose solution via the oral route. Blood glucose levels of the rats were measured at intervals to assess rates of glucose metabolism. Results obtained showed a lethal dose value >5000 mg/kg body weight for the extract. In the ulcer study, the extract significantly inhibited ulcer severity scores in the rats when compared with control (p<0.05), and also decreased gastric acidity in dose dependent pattern, comparing favourably with results obtained for the Omeprazole treated group. Extractible mucus weights were also significantly higher in the extract treated groups than the control (p<0.05). Increased rates of glucose metabolism, lower percentage weight gains and increased values of serum antioxidant parameters were also observed in the extract treated rats when compared with control (p<0.05). Therefore, Aidan fruit may be a safe agent for use in the prevention of ethanol-induced ulcers. The agent may also be of value in strengthening the activity of the pancreas and control of glucose levels in diabetes mellitus.
Key words: Aidan fruit, ethanol, extract, gastro-protective, ulcer
