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- Self-medication and Patronage of Orthodox Medical Facilities among the
Indigenous People of Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State,
Nigeria
Authors: Eteng Ikpi Etobe, Utibe E. I. Etobe, Komommo Ubi Iferi
Pages: 1 - 20
Abstract: The study examines the relationship between self-medication and patronage of orthodox medical facilities in Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. Three research objectives were drawn which guided the formulation of three null hypotheses from the independent variable. The study adopted descriptive survey design. 17-item questionnaires entitled “Self-medication. And Patronage of Orthodox Medical Facilities (SMPOMF)” were distributed to four hundred and forty-eight (448) respondents selected through simple random sampling technique from the study area. In addition, key informants (KII) were used as data collection instrument. The reliability test of the instrument was conducted using the Cronbach reliability method. Data were gathered through primary and secondary sources and were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and One-way ANOVA statistical techniques. The three hypotheses, tested at 0.5 level of significance, revealed that, there is a significant relationship between belief system, level of awareness (p=.337), proximity to medical facility and self-medication in Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria (p=.325). This confirms that, there is a significant relationship between self-medication and patronage of orthodox medical facilities in the study area. The study recommends among other things, that, traditional medical practice should be integrated into the primary healthcare system to grant it a formal status in the healthcare delivery system in Nigeria. In addition, the safety and regulation of traditional medicine should be assessed to improve its standard and efficacy. Furthermore, government should build more medical facilities in the study area to encourage people to patronize these facilities when faced with health challenges; rather than reverting to traditional medicine and self-medication, which in most times are ineffective.
PubDate: 2024-06-07
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3258
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Reducing Sugar, Alkaloid and Tannin from Dryopteris dilatata Fractions
Modulates Diabetogenic and Oxidative Stress Activity on Alloxan Induced
Diabetic Rats
Authors: Ajirioghene E. Akpotu, Samuel I. Ghasi, Amalachukwu O. Ike, Omoighele F. Akhigbe, Micheal A. Amadi, Daniel O. J. Ajah, Funso-Babarimisa; Funso, Victoria O. Chukwu, Martins U. Ukiwa
Pages: 21 - 33
Abstract: Active components in medicinal plants possess therapeutic indications in disease states. Aim: The present investigation evaluated the activity of fraction from Dryopteris dilatata leaves modulating diabetogenic and oxidative stress activity in alloxan-induced diabetic Rats. Methods: Seventy-two male (135-140)g wistar rats divided into two groups of thirty-six rats each for oral glucose tolerance test and diabetic study. Diabetic induction and oral glucose test (OGTT) was done using standard methods. Each group was divided into six sub-groups (n-6). Group A was normal control, group B diabetic control, group C received metformin 50 mg/kg, group D reducing sugar fraction 800 mg/kg, group E alkaloid fraction 800 mg/kg and group F tannin fraction 800 mg/kg once for OGTT and daily throughout the treatment period (15 days) for diabetic study. Their glucose level was taken at interval of hours for OGTT and five days interval for diabetic group. We assessed the levels of lipid profile (TC, TG, LDL and HDL), lipid peroxidation, endogenous antioxidants in the brain and testis. Results: Fractions of Dryopteris dilatata caused significant reduction in body weight and blood glucose levels in experimental rats, decreased the levels of TC, TG, LDL, increased HDL, reduced levels of MDA, elevated CAT, GSH and SOD in the brain and testis. Conclusion: The observed results in this study connotes that fractions of Dd could be used in amelioration of diabetes and its associated complications by reducing bad cholesterol (TC, TG and LDL), increasing good cholesterol (HDL), attenuating the activity of antioxidants in diabetic condition. 
PubDate: 2024-06-13
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3259
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Efficacy of Ascorbic Acid on Frontal Cortex Damage Induced by Alcoholic
Extract of Datura stramonium Leaf in Adult Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Atiba Kehinde Peter , Onyemeh Linda Oluchi , Sunday Kolawole Akomolede, Paul Obaloluwa Ojetayo, Patricia Okwuchi Nneji, Aniekwensi Obinna Patrick , Gemadi Kwasi Shine, Adedoyin Tinuade Buari , Olajide Sarah Olulana, Manawa Oghenevware
Pages: 34 - 53
Abstract: Introduction: Datura stramonium (DS) is a medicinal plant widely distributed across the globe, including in Nigeria and West Africa. Pharmacological, physiological, and histological studies have demonstrated the neurotoxicity of the plant in animals and humans. Ascorbic acid is a potent reducing agent and scavenger of free radicals in biological systems. Aim: This study was undertaken to advance our knowledge on Datura stramonium leaf toxicity and investigate ascorbic acid efficacy on the frontal cortex damage induced by the alcoholic extract of Datura stramonium leaf in adult male Wistar rats. Settings and Design: Thirty (30) adults male Wistar rats weighing about 120±20g were divided into six groups (A-F) of five animals each for oral administration over 14 days. Materials and Methods:
Group A (Control): Received only rat feeds and water.
Group B: Received 200 mg/kg alcoholic extract of Datura stramonium.
Group C: Received 400 mg/kg alcoholic extract of Datura stramonium.
Group D: Received 200 mg/kg body weight alcoholic extract of Datura stramonium and 200 mg/kg body weight of Vitamin C.
Group E: Received 400 mg/kg body weight alcoholic extract of Datura stramonium and 200 mg/kg body weight of Vitamin C.
Group F: Received 200 mg/kg body weight of Vitamin C. The experimental animals were euthanized, and sections of the frontal cortex of the brain were harvested for histological procedures, organ weight (brain) and body weight of experimental animals were obtained. The data was subjected to a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Histological observations indicated that the administration of the alcoholic extract of DS leaf in Group C showed degeneration of neurons in the frontal cortex. Groups that received ascorbic acid along with DS leaf in smaller doses showed no significant changes and had normal neuronal cells and stroma. Changes observed in body weight were not statistically significant at p-value <0.05. Conclusion: This study suggests that ascorbic acid effectively reduces the neurotoxicity potential of Datura stramonium on the frontal cortex. The DS leaf extract may have neurodegenerative effects at high doses, and precautions should be taken when consuming DS, as it may adversely affect and damage neurons in the frontal cortex.
PubDate: 2024-06-14
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3260
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Prediction and Diagnosis of Breast Cancer Using Machine Learning
Algorithms
Authors: Syed Shafi Ahmed, Yash Srivastava, Mohd. Ghalib Khan
Pages: 54 - 60
Abstract: Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent and fatal forms of cancer in India. It ranks the second most common cancer in rural areas and the most common in urban areas. According to a report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, there were over 2.26 million new breast cancer cases and nearly 685,000 deaths from breast cancer globally. With a significant portion of India's population being young, the number of women diagnosed with breast cancer is expected to increase, reaching alarming levels due to a lack of awareness and delays in diagnosis. While breast cancer cannot be prevented, early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve survival rates. This study uses K-Nearest Neighbour (K-NN), Random Forest, Decision Trees (CART), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Naïve Bayes to aid oncologists in identifying and diagnosing breast cancer, thereby assisting in treatment decision-making. We present a predictive model for the early detection of breast cancer and compare the results of the employed models for effective detection.
PubDate: 2024-07-01
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3261
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Knowledge, Perception and Practice among Pharmacy Students Regarding
Self-Medication in Eastern Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Evaristus Chinonso Odoh, Shadrach Chinecherem Eze, Ugomma Loveth Anyaji, Kingsley Chinemerem Eze, Emmanuel Chijiekwu Nwachukwu, Gerald Obinna Ozota, Kenneth Chukwuebuka Egwu, Caleb Chijindu Ugorji, Joy Chekwube Onyesoro, Jude Nwiyi Chimaobi, Njoku Chukwuemeka Chidindu, Victor Chukwuebuka Akwu, Wisdom Enyinnaya Arugo, Chioma Chikezie Igu
Pages: 61 - 76
Abstract: Background: The prevalence of self-medication is increasing, not only among the general public but also among college and university students in the health field. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge, perception and practice of self-medication among pharmacy students in the university of Nigeria, Nsukka. Methods: This was a university-based cross-sectional study of 354 pharmacy students using a self-administered e-questionnaire. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics, chi square tests were used to assess association between the dependent and independent variables at a p<0.05. Results: The prevalence of self-medication was 82% in this population. Among the respondents, 294(83.1%) demonstrated good knowledge of self-medication. Reasons for respondent’s practice of self-medication include; easy access to online treatment guidelines (39.5%), knowledge of therapy for minor ailments (36.4%), and time considerations (45.2%). The commonest classes of drugs used for self-medication by our respondents were; Antimalarials (85.9%), Antibiotics (74.9%), Analgesics (76.0%) and Gastrointestinals (59.6%). No significant association was found between students’ sociodemographic characteristics and their knowledge and practice of self-medication. Conclusion: While the pharmacy students demonstrated a remarkable understanding of self-medication, they frequently engaged in this harmful practice, particularly using antibiotics, antimalarials, and analgesics. This study highlights the need for a greater emphasis on antimicrobial stewardship and the dangers of self-medication in the pharmacy curriculum.
PubDate: 2024-07-13
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3262
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- America’s Healthcare System: A Looming Crises
Authors: Prince Akpokiro
Pages: 77 - 82
Abstract: America's healthcare system faces a critical juncture marked by escalating costs, disparities in access, and systemic inefficiencies. This paper explores the imminent crisis, analyzing factors contributing to its complexity and urgency. Through examination of current trends and policy frameworks, it highlights the need for transformative reforms to ensure equitable, sustainable, and patient-centered care. By addressing affordability, quality, and accessibility, this study uncovers systemic deficiencies undermining the health of millions. It advocates for collaborative solutions that prioritize equity and innovation, emphasizing all citizens' fundamental right to healthcare.
PubDate: 2024-07-19
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3263
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- A Comparative Study of Anti-elastase Activity of Extract, Extract-loaded
Nanoparticle, and Serum Gels of Indonesian Bilberry Leaves
Authors: Kosasih Kosasih, Ananta Altriyuana, Zainur Rahman Hakim
Pages: 83 - 93
Abstract: Aims: To do a comparative study of the anti-elastase activity of the extract, extract-loaded gelatin nanoparticles, and serum gels of Indonesian Bilberry leaves. Methods: Extraction of the leaves used the maceration method with 70% ethanol at a pH of 2 and dried using a rotavapor and an oven. The dry extracts were phytochemical screened and tested for specific and non-specific parameters. The synthesis of gelatin nanoparticles used the desolvation method with polymer gelatin and cross-linker glutaraldehyde, and then they were characterized. The extracts and the gelatin nanoparticles were formulated into serum gels and evaluated for physical, chemical, and anti-elastase activity at 40°C for six weeks. The extracts, nanoparticles, and formulations were assayed for anti-elastase activity at 410 nm. Results: The extracts met standards, while the nanoparticles showed particle sizes of 174.7 nm, polydispersity index of 0.34, zeta potential of 2.82 mV, entrapment efficiency of 38.6%, aldimine on FTIR, and shape of stacked nanoparticles. The anti-elastase activity of the extract was 49.37 ppm, while the nanoparticles were 72.92 ppm, respectively. In addition, the serum gels of F1 were 117.92 ppm, and F2 were 142.92 ppm. F1 and F2 were stable during storage. It is still possible to enhance the activity of the serum gels, such as by increasing the addition of actives. Conclusion: The extract, gelatin nanoparticles, and serum gels of F1 and F2 have anti-elastase activity in the potent category for the extract and nanoparticles, while moderate category for F1 and F2. The serum gels are physicochemically stable during storage.
PubDate: 2024-07-20
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3264
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Future-oriented and Progress in DNA Vaccine and Delivery Systems for the
Treatment of Human Diseases
Authors: Shivani Biragi, Satish Dod, Tejas Singh, Upendra Prajapati, Shaily Chaudhary
Pages: 94 - 108
Abstract: In the domain of vaccination, DNA antibodies have transformed into a striking methodology that appreciates different high grounds over ordinary vaccination modalities. A design of the vital considerations behind DNA vaccinations, their technique for action, and energy upgrades in their assessment are given in this hypothetical. Trustworthy immunity is made by DNA courses of action, which use plasmid DNA encoding antigenic proteins to move humoral and cell-safe responses. They are in like manner a secured and versatile stage for immunization considering their capacity to replicate a trademark illness without spreading disorder. DNA inoculations are dynamic against different versatile contaminations, including those achieved by microorganisms, diseases, and parasite organisms. Furthermore, updates in adjuvants, plan frameworks, and association techniques have raised their immunogenicity and adequacy. Notwithstanding the way that there have been a couple of sure new developments, enormous checks really ought to be addressed to redesign power." DNA inoculations, by and large, address a promising street for making state-of-the-art antibodies arranged to effectively fight emerging overwhelming risks.
PubDate: 2024-07-22
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3265
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Prophylactic Effects of Methanolic Leaf Extract of Momordica balsamina
Against CCL4 Induced Liver Injury in Wistar Rats
Authors: B.H. Abubakar, M.H. Yeldu, W. Usman, S.S. Bello, M. Bello, I.U. Leje, Y.G. Ibrahim, I. Z. . Wasagu
Pages: 109 - 120
Abstract: Introduction: Liver injury can result from various causes, including alcohol consumption, viral infections (such as hepatitis), autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and exposure to certain chemicals, drugs or toxins. It can manifest as inflammation, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, or acute liver failure, depending on the cause and severity. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying cause, lifestyle changes (such as avoiding alcohol or certain medications), and sometimes medication to support liver function or manage specific conditions. Early detection and management are crucial for preventing further damage and promoting liver health. Studies have reported the effects of Momordica balsamina on liver injury. Aim: This study aim to evaluate the prophylactic effect of methanolic leaf extract of Momordica balsamina against CCL4-induced liver injury in Wistar Rats. Methodology: The fresh leaves of Momordica balsamina were purchased at Marina Market, Sokoto, the plant was air dry at room temperature for 2 weeks and the air-dried leaves were processed with methanol to obtain methanolic extract. An acute toxicity study of M. balsamina extract was conducted with six doses (10, 100, 1000, 1600, 2900 and 5000 mg/kg) to evaluate its safety. Phytochemical analysis of the extract was carried out to detect the presence or absence of carbohydrates, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, protein, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides and steroids. A total of 42 Wistar rats (170±20g) of either sex roughly of the same age (8-10 weeks) were used for the study. After two weeks of acclimatization, the rats were randomly divided into six groups of seven rats each; group 1 (normal control) treated with distilled water and vital feeds; groups 2 (Negative control) CCl4 treated with liver injury not on treatment; group 3 (Standard control) CCl4 liver injury treated with 50 mg/kg Silymarin; group 4 (500 mg/kg M. balsamina + 2mL CCl4); group 5 (1000 mg/kg M. balsamina + 2mL CCl4) and group 6 (1500 mg/kg M. balsamina + 2mL CCl4) for 4 weeks. On the last day, the rats were anaesthetized, and blood and liver organ were collected for biochemical and histomorphology study. Results: The prophylactic effects of methanolic leaf extract of Momordica balsamina against CCl4-induced liver injury were evaluated on liver function tests (LFTs) and Malondialdehyde (MDA). This study shows that Momordica balsamina extract significantly (P< 0.05) decreased the level of serum AST, ALT, ALP, TB and DB positively by inhibiting their raise at dose-dependent manner compared to the negative control, equally, the extract increased the serum level of Albumin and total protein when compared to the negative control. On the other hand, the extract shows significant reduction of serum level of Malondialdehyde (MDA) near to normal at varying dose. The finding of the prophylactic effect of methanolic leaf extract of Momordica balsamina on histology shows significant improvement on liver cell with notable recovery and appearance of the histological architecture of the hepatocyte at the highest dose (1500 mg/kg+2mL CCl4) compared to negative control group. Conclusion: The presence of phytochemical compounds and antioxidant properties as well as a gene that is responsible for its prophylactic effect may be one of the mechanisms through which the plant extract was able to exert prophylactic effect on CCl4 induced liver injury in Wistar rats. This study suggests that M. balsamina extract may be considered as an affordable and non-invasive treatment option for liver injury in human.
PubDate: 2024-07-22
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3266
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Evaluation of the Combination Effects of Extracts of Jatropha tanjorensis
and Adansonia digitata on Clinical Fungal Isolates
Authors: Iniekong Udoh, Veronica Emenuga, Clara Eleazar, Uzoamaka Maduakor, Ngozika Achukwu, Patience Ezeah
Pages: 121 - 128
Abstract: Introduction: The proliferation of fake drugs and the multiple resistance seen in conventional fungicidal drugs has led to the use of medicinal plants to treat fungal infections. There are claims that Jatropha tanjorensis and Adansonia digitata have fungicidal potentials, hence this study. Aim: To evaluate the combination effects of the extracts of Jatropha tanjorensis and Adansonia digitata on clinical fungal isolates. Study Design: Randomized sampling of the plants was done by harvesting the plants from different farm in Nsukka Enugu State. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Enugu State, South East of Nigeria, from November 2023 to March 2024. Methodology: Phytochemical screening was done on the two plants. The methanolic and aqueous (cold and hot) extracts of these plants bark and stem were assessed for their antifungal activities against six fungal isolates using agar diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were done according to standard methods. Results: The plants contain alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids, tannin, glycoside and phenol. The hot water extracts of J. tanjorensis stem gave higher zones of inhibition diameter (IZD) than the methanolic extracts and the methanolic extracts of A. digitata bark gave higher IZD than the aqueous extracts. The combination of these two potent extracts showed greatest inhibition on Aspergillus niger, Candida albican and then least inhibition on Trichophyton shoenleinii, this was found to be statistically significant at (P<.05), the P value was (P=0.001). The lowest (MIC) and (MFC) were recorded in A. niger and Candida albican at (1.5625mg/ml) while the highest (MIC) and (MFC) were recorded in T. shoenleinii, at (25mg/ml). Conclusion: This study revealed that the combined plant extracts were more effective against opportunistic fungi than the dermatophytes.
PubDate: 2024-07-31
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3267
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
- Oral Gentamicin Sulphate Nanoemulsion for Systemic Indication: Formulation
and Evaluation
Authors: Somtochukwu R Ewuzie, Calistus D Nwakile, Emmanuel M Uronnachi, Chukwuebuka E Umeyor, Henrietta I Obi, Ifeanyi E Okoye, Ogechukwu C Dozie-Nwakile, Anthony A Attama, Vincent C Okore
Pages: 129 - 139
Abstract: Aim: To achieve systemic availability of an oral dosage form of gentamicin sulfate (GS), typically impermeable via the gastrointestinal tract. Study Design: Formulation and physical characterization of GS nanoemulsion. Stability studies and ex vivo bioavailability evaluation of the emulsion. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria; between January 2021 and May 2023. Methodology: Pre-formulation experiments were conducted with adjuvants for use for the formulation. Using a homogenizer, an aquaphilic GS nanoemulsion was prepared with the adjuvants, including polysorbate 80 and span 80, as permeation enhancers. The emulsion was evaluated for its globule size and polydispersity index, and real-time physical stability parameters using pH and relative viscosity. The bioavailability of gentamicin sulphate was assessed as ex vivo anti-E. coli activity after oral administration of the emulsion to Wister rats and a confirmatory test was done using gas chromatograph-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) analysis. Results: The emulsion had an average globule size of 66.55 nm, and is monodispersed with a polydispersity index of 0.45. The pH and viscosity values measured for 60 days ranged from 6.60±0.00 to 6.80±0.00 and .03±0.00 to .03±0.01 respectively (P = .05). The ex vivo antibacterial activity of the GS emulsion was significant at 3.00±0.00 mm 1 –hr post-administration to the Wistar rats, indicating systemic availability of the antibiotic. The GC-FID analysis confirmed the presence of the drug in the serum. Conclusion: The bioavailability of oral GS is achievable through simple specialized formulations containing adjuvants which contributes to an improved gastrointestinal permeability of the drug.
PubDate: 2024-08-03
DOI: 10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3268
Issue No: Vol. 13, No. 3 (2024)
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