Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dim... more Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dimensions are vital in diagnosis, prevention, and assessment of suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome. The study aimed to assess morphometry of suprascapular notch and scapular dimensions in Ugandan dry scapulae with specific reference to scapulae with completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligaments. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted on 50 Ugandan dry scapulae. SSN types and prevalence of completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligament among dry scapulae were quantified and compared with previous data. Scapular dimensions were assessed by measuring scapular length (A), scapular width (B), glenoid length (C), and glenoid width (D). One-way ANOVA was used to compare scapular dimensions of scapulae with different SSN types, and Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation coefficient of scapular dimensions amongst groups. Results: Superior transverse scapular ligament (STSL) was completely ossified in 8% of cases. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference between scapular dimensions of scapulae with completely ossified STSL compared to scapulae with other SSN types.
Background: Globally, air pollution constitutes a significant threat to human health affecting va... more Background: Globally, air pollution constitutes a significant threat to human health affecting various organs of the body. Objective: This study evaluated the histopathological changes in respiratory, renal, and cardiac tissues of the Wistar rats exposed to particulate matter (PM) polluted ambient air (indoor and outdoor). Methods: Twenty Wistar rats were imported from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (non-PM polluted environment). Four rats were immediately sacrificed before the commencement of the study to serve as a control group. The remaining 16 rats were grouped into two (indoor and outdoor) (n=8), then left for 90 days. At the end of the 90 days, the rats were euthanized using diethyl ether, then the lung, hearts, and kidneys were harvested for histopathological studies. Results: Indoor and outdoor PM exposure showed thickening of inter-alveolar septa and shrinking of alveoli sacs in the lungs. Fused peripherally placed nuclei, branched, weaved, and reunited cardiac myofibri...
This study determined the prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions, uptake of cervical cancer ... more This study determined the prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions, uptake of cervical cancer screening (CCS), and its associated factors among HIV-positive women attending the Immuno-Suppression Syndrome (ISS), and the Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology Clinics of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH). Patients and methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the ISS Clinic of MRRH, southwestern Uganda. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires among 303 con rmed HIV-positive patients between January 2020 and April 2020. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results The majority of the respondent 179(59.1%) had screened for cervical cancer and of the 124 unscreened women, 5(4.0%) had precancerous cervical lesions. HIV-positive women directed by healthcare staff in their most recent visit (AOR = 7.7, 95%CI: 4.08-14.63, p < 0.01), women from villages where outreaches were conducted (AOR = 4.4, 95%CI: 1.94-10.05, p < 0.01), and women that were attended to by two skilled health workers (AOR = 5.1, 95%CI: 1.81-14.43, p < 0.01) were more likely to go for CCS. Conclusion The uptake of CCS services among HIV-positive women attending ISS clinic was generally high. The prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions was generally low. This study demonstrates that referrals, outreaches, and the presence of skilled health workers enhanced the uptake of cervical cancer screening among HIV-positive women attending the ISS clinic at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital.
Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dim... more Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dimensions are vital in diagnosis, prevention, and assessment of suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome. The study aimed to assess morphometry of suprascapular notch and scapular dimensions in Ugandan dry scapulae with specific reference to scapulae with completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligaments. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted on 50 Ugandan dry scapulae. SSN types and prevalence of completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligament among dry scapulae were quantified and compared with previous data. Scapular dimensions were assessed by measuring scapular length (A), scapular width (B), glenoid length (C), and glenoid width (D). One-way ANOVA was used to compare scapular dimensions of scapulae with different SSN types, and Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation coefficient of scapular dimensions amongst groups. Results: Superior transverse scapular ligament (STSL) was completely ossified in 8% of cases. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference between scapular dimensions of scapulae with completely ossified STSL compared to scapulae with other SSN types.
Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-cough medications which contain codeine (an opioid) are extensively a... more Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-cough medications which contain codeine (an opioid) are extensively available in Nigeria, and hence prone to overuse or abuse. The study aimed to understand the effects of oral codeine administration on the integrity of neurons of the cerebral cortex and cerebellum and its behavioral implications in male Wistar rats. Methods: Thirty adult male Wistar rats of comparable weights were obtained and randomly allocated into 5 groups: A, B, C, D, and E (n = 6). Drugs used for the study were Archilin TM with codeine and dihydrocodeine 30mg. Group A served as control and was administered 0.5mL/kg of normal saline. Groups B and C were treated with 1mg/kg and 2mg/kg of dihydrocodeine, respectively; Group D and E received 2mL/kg and 4mL/kg of Archilin TM codeine syrup, respectively. The Archilin TM codeine syrup and dihydrocodeine solutions were administered to the animals based on their body weight, orally and daily with the aid of oropharyngeal tubes for 21 days. The experimental animals were subjected to neurobehavioral studies using beam walk and open field. At the end of the treatment period, the animals were anesthetized with ketamine-hydrochloride intraperitoneally. The brains were quickly dissected out, rinsed with normal saline, and tissue processed for myelin studies. Results: The beam walking and open field result revealed that prolonged codeine administration interfered with motor function in the experimental animals. Sections of the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum of rats given normal saline showed normal myelin sheaths, whereas animals in the treatment group showed degenerating myelin compared to the control. Conclusion: Prolonged consumption of prescription codeine causes degeneration of the myelin sheaths and this may affect the conduction of electrical impulses in myelinated axons thus resulting in motor function insufficiency.
Background Nicotine form the major constituent of consumed tobacco and cigarettes throughout the ... more Background Nicotine form the major constituent of consumed tobacco and cigarettes throughout the World resulting in oxidative stress while garlic and honey have been shown to contain numerous natural antioxidants. We investigated the role of combined effects of garlic and honey on nicotine induced Cerebellar and behavioral toxicity in Wistar rats. Method : Forty rats were divided into eight groups of ve rats each. Group 1 received water only, Group 2 and 3 received 50 mg/kg of nicotine with garlic and honey at (300 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg) and (600 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg) respectively. Group 4 received 50 mg/kg of nicotine only, Group 5 received garlic 300 mg/kg and honey 1000 mg/kg before 50 mg/kg nicotine, Group 6 received garlic 600 mg/kg and honey 2000 mg/kg before 50 mg/kg nicotine. Group 7 and 8 received 50 mg/kg nicotine + 450 mg/kg garlic only and 1500 mg/kg honey only respectively. The administration was through oral route and lasted for 21 days respectively. Limb impairment and grip were conducted. After the administration, blood and cerebellum were harvested for lactate dehydrogenase assay, oxidative stress and histopathological analyses. Result There was signi cant decrease in body weight, grip strength and limb impairment in Group 4 with increase in Group 2 compared to the Control (p < 0.001). There was signi cant increase in LDH in Groups 2, 4, 7 and 8 with signi cant decrease in Group 3 compared to Group 1. The result showed signi cant decrease in SOD and CAT activities in all the groups compared to Group 1 (p < 0.001). Groups 1, 7 and 8 showed normal histology of the cerebellum while Group 4 showed areas of neuronal degeneration with distortions in histology and Groups 3, 5 and 6 showed few neural changes. Conclusion The study showed that garlic and honey may be useful in ameliorating nicotine toxicity dose-dependently which may be due to their antioxidant activity.
Background There are currently an estimated 38 million people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in the glo... more Background There are currently an estimated 38 million people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in the globe. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between Body mass index (BMI) and CD4 cell counts among people living with HIV attending Infectious Disease Hospital, Kano State. Method Two hundred HIV-positive and non-HIV positive above 18 years of age were recruited for the study. Blood samples were collected from both categories for the determination of CD4 count. The relationship between the height, weight, BMI, and CD4 cell counts was examined using Pearson correlation, and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result Mean heights of among male HIV subject (1.66 ± 0.07) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to female HIV subjects (1.54 ± 0.09). BMI was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in female HIV subjects (24.74 ± 4.95) when compared to male HIV subjects (21.78 ± 2.73). There was a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.280,...
Over time, the use of plant-derived agents in the management of various human health conditions h... more Over time, the use of plant-derived agents in the management of various human health conditions has gained a lot of attention. The study assessed the hepatoprotective potential of ethyl acetate fraction Tamarindus indica leaves (EFTI) during prenatal aluminum chloride exposure. Pregnant rats were divided into 5 groups (n = 4); Group I rats were administered 2 ml kg − 1 of distilled water (negative control), Group II rats received only 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride (positive control), Group III rats were administered 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride and 400 mg kg − 1 EFTI, Group IV rats were administered 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride and 800 mg kg − 1 EFTI, Group V rats were administered 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride and 300 mg kg − 1 Vit E (comparative control). On postnatal day 1, the pups were euthanized, and liver tissues were harvested for the biochemical study (tissue levels of malondialdehyde, caspase-3, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferases) and the liver histological examination. The administration of EFTI was marked with significant improvement in the tissue levels of malondialdehyde, caspase-3, tumor necrosis factoralpha, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferases. There was a marked improvement in histopathological changes associated with prenatal aluminum chloride exposure. In conclusion, the administration of EFTI was protective during prenatal aluminum chloride exposure of the liver in Wistar rats, and is mediated by the anti-lipid peroxidative, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activity of EFTI.
The objective of the study was to assess; the level of knowledge, attitude and practice on cervic... more The objective of the study was to assess; the level of knowledge, attitude and practice on cervical cancer screening (CCS) among female university students (FUS) in Ishaka, western Uganda. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study among FUS (n = 407) in western Uganda conducted after the rst nationwide lockdown in Uganda. Information was collected using a questionnaire and descriptively presented as frequency and percentages. Majority of our respondents were medical students 283 (69.5%), below 25years 339 (83.3%), with Anglican Christian religious background 150 (36.9%). More respondents above the age of 25years (p = 0.0052) and those in the medical profession (p < 0.001) had more knowledge. More medical students had a better attitude (p = 0.0043) and favorable practices (0.0134) compared to their non-medical counterparts. There is a weak correlation between attitude (r = 0.206, p < 0.001) and practice (r = 0.181, p = 0.0003) with knowledge on CCS. Observation from the present study suggests the need for more efforts in the ght against cervical cancer and encouragement of positive attitude and practice towards cervical cancer screening and uptake of vaccination.
Aim: This study evaluated the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Catha edulis on the prefrontal co... more Aim: This study evaluated the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Catha edulis on the prefrontal cortex oxidative markers and hematological profile of Wistar rats. Study Design: The study design was experimental. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Kampala International University, Uganda and Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda. Between January and May, 2021. Methodology: Fresh C. edulis leaves were collected after on-spot identification, and authenticated before being chopped into small pieces and pulverized mechanically. The powdered material was extracted through cold maceration using 70% ethanol for 72 h. The extract was concentrated in vacuo to dryness at 40oC using rotary evaporator. The lethal dose (LD50) of the crude extract was determined using acute toxicity test. The sub-acute toxicity of the crude extract was evaluated by orally administering daily doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg ...
Aluminium exposure has been linked with developmental neurotoxicity in humans and experimental an... more Aluminium exposure has been linked with developmental neurotoxicity in humans and experimental animals. The study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of Tamarindus indica on the developing cerebellar cortex, neurobehavior, and immunohistochemistry of the cerebellar cortex following prenatal aluminum chloride (AlCl 3) exposure. Pregnant timed Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups (n=4). Group I (negative control) was given distilled water, group II was treated with 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 , group III were given 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 and 400 mg/kg of ethyl acetate leaf fraction of Tamarindus indica (EATI), group IV were given 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 and 800 mg/kg of EATI, and group V were treated with 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 s/c and 300 mg/kg of vitamin E for 14 days (prenatal day 7-21) via the oral route. Male pups (n=6) were randomly selected and taken for neurobehavioral studies, and humanely sacrificed via intraperitoneal injection of thiopental sodium. The cerebellum was removed, fixed and tissue processed for histological and immunohistochemical studies. The results revealed that prenatal AlCl 3 exposure impacted neurodevelopment and neurobehaviour among exposed pups. Prenatal AlCl 3 exposure was marked with delayed cytoarchitectural development of the cerebellar cortex and increased GFAP expression in the cerebellar cortex. On the other hand, treatment with EATI and vitamin E were marked with significant improvements. The present study therefore concluded treatment with EATI shows an ameliorative effect to prenatal AlCl 3 exposure.
Background: Self-medication has become a serious public health problem posing great risks, especi... more Background: Self-medication has become a serious public health problem posing great risks, especially with the increasing number of cases of COVID-19 disease globally and in Uganda. This may be partly because of the absence of a recognized treatment for the disease, however, the differing prevalence and nature from country to country may influence human behavioral responses. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the behavioral response to self-medication practices during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown in comparison to the pre-COVID period in Western Uganda. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to August 2020 in western Uganda using online Google forms and printed questionnaires to investigate the level of self-medication practice before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. This included 280 participants, aged 18 and above who consented to participate in the study. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique, and sampling was done by sending a structured online questionnaire via Google forms and printed questionnaires to participants who did not use the online Google forms. Results: Respondents that knew about self-medication were 97% of the 272 participants. Those that are aware of self-medication, have heard about it either through different avenues. Respondents who practiced self-medication before the COVID-19 pandemic were 239 (88%); those who practiced self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic were 156 (57%); those that did not were 115 (43%). There was a statistically significant decrease in the number of respondents who practice self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown compared to the practice before the pandemic lockdown. p < 0.05 at 95% confidence interval (OR = 5.39, 95% CI = 3.48, 8.32). Conclusion: Our investigation showed adequate knowledge of self-medication and a high level of self-medication practice with a decrease in self-medication practices during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown compared to the practice before the lockdown.
Background: The imposed COVID-19 lockdown is taking a toll on mental health individuals, with low... more Background: The imposed COVID-19 lockdown is taking a toll on mental health individuals, with low-income earners considered most affected, as the imposed lockdown was accompanied with partial or complete loss of livelihood among low income earners. The study aimed to investigate level of education and relationship status on awareness of mental healthcare and explore how these factors influence mental health among low income earners in Western Uganda.Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was undertaken among low-income earners in South Western Uganda. Data were collected from two hundred and fifty-three (253) participants using a structured closed ended questionnaire. Anxiety, anger and depression were assessed using a modified generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7), Spielberger’s State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2 (STAXI-2) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) item tools respectively.Result: Most respondents were single male individuals with secondary level of education. R...
BackgroundStress among medical students is related to their academic lifespan; however, informati... more BackgroundStress among medical students is related to their academic lifespan; however, information on brain health among medical students from developing countries continues to be scarce. The objective of this study was to establish perceived academic stress levels, assess the ability to cope with stress, and investigate its effects on the visual reaction time (VRT), audio reaction time (ART), and tactile reaction time (TRT) in the somatosensory cortex among medical students of Uganda.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study conducted among preclinical (n = 88) and clinical (n = 96) undergraduate medical students at Kampala International University Western Campus. A standard Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was used to categorize stress into low, moderate, and severe while the ability to cope with stress was categorized into below average, average, above average, and superior stresscoper (SS). Data on reaction time were acquired through VRT, ART, and TRT using the catch-a-ruler experime...
Background—misinformation and mistrust often undermines community vaccine uptake, yet information... more Background—misinformation and mistrust often undermines community vaccine uptake, yet information in rural communities, especially of developing countries, is scarce. This study aimed to identify major challenges associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine clinical trials among healthcare workers and staff in Uganda. Methods—a rapid exploratory survey was conducted over 5 weeks among 260 respondents (66% male) from healthcare centers across the country using an online questionnaire. Twenty-seven questions assessed knowledge, confidence, and trust scores on COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials from participants in 46 districts in Uganda. Results—we found low levels of knowledge (i.e., confusing COVID-19 with Ebola) with males being more informed than females (OR = 1.5, 95% CI: 0.7–3.0), and mistrust associated with policy decisions to promote herbal treatments in Uganda and the rushed international clinical trials, highlighting challenges for the upcoming Oxford–AstraZene...
Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dim... more Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dimensions are vital in diagnosis, prevention, and assessment of suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome. The study aimed to assess morphometry of suprascapular notch and scapular dimensions in Ugandan dry scapulae with specific reference to scapulae with completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligaments. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted on 50 Ugandan dry scapulae. SSN types and prevalence of completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligament among dry scapulae were quantified and compared with previous data. Scapular dimensions were assessed by measuring scapular length (A), scapular width (B), glenoid length (C), and glenoid width (D). One-way ANOVA was used to compare scapular dimensions of scapulae with different SSN types, and Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation coefficient of scapular dimensions amongst groups. Results: Superior transverse scapular ligament (STSL) was completely ossified in 8% of cases. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference between scapular dimensions of scapulae with completely ossified STSL compared to scapulae with other SSN types.
Background: Globally, air pollution constitutes a significant threat to human health affecting va... more Background: Globally, air pollution constitutes a significant threat to human health affecting various organs of the body. Objective: This study evaluated the histopathological changes in respiratory, renal, and cardiac tissues of the Wistar rats exposed to particulate matter (PM) polluted ambient air (indoor and outdoor). Methods: Twenty Wistar rats were imported from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (non-PM polluted environment). Four rats were immediately sacrificed before the commencement of the study to serve as a control group. The remaining 16 rats were grouped into two (indoor and outdoor) (n=8), then left for 90 days. At the end of the 90 days, the rats were euthanized using diethyl ether, then the lung, hearts, and kidneys were harvested for histopathological studies. Results: Indoor and outdoor PM exposure showed thickening of inter-alveolar septa and shrinking of alveoli sacs in the lungs. Fused peripherally placed nuclei, branched, weaved, and reunited cardiac myofibri...
This study determined the prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions, uptake of cervical cancer ... more This study determined the prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions, uptake of cervical cancer screening (CCS), and its associated factors among HIV-positive women attending the Immuno-Suppression Syndrome (ISS), and the Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology Clinics of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH). Patients and methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the ISS Clinic of MRRH, southwestern Uganda. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires among 303 con rmed HIV-positive patients between January 2020 and April 2020. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results The majority of the respondent 179(59.1%) had screened for cervical cancer and of the 124 unscreened women, 5(4.0%) had precancerous cervical lesions. HIV-positive women directed by healthcare staff in their most recent visit (AOR = 7.7, 95%CI: 4.08-14.63, p < 0.01), women from villages where outreaches were conducted (AOR = 4.4, 95%CI: 1.94-10.05, p < 0.01), and women that were attended to by two skilled health workers (AOR = 5.1, 95%CI: 1.81-14.43, p < 0.01) were more likely to go for CCS. Conclusion The uptake of CCS services among HIV-positive women attending ISS clinic was generally high. The prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions was generally low. This study demonstrates that referrals, outreaches, and the presence of skilled health workers enhanced the uptake of cervical cancer screening among HIV-positive women attending the ISS clinic at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital.
Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dim... more Background: Understanding of suprascapular notch (SSN) anatomy and relationship with scapular dimensions are vital in diagnosis, prevention, and assessment of suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome. The study aimed to assess morphometry of suprascapular notch and scapular dimensions in Ugandan dry scapulae with specific reference to scapulae with completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligaments. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted on 50 Ugandan dry scapulae. SSN types and prevalence of completely ossified superior transverse scapular ligament among dry scapulae were quantified and compared with previous data. Scapular dimensions were assessed by measuring scapular length (A), scapular width (B), glenoid length (C), and glenoid width (D). One-way ANOVA was used to compare scapular dimensions of scapulae with different SSN types, and Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation coefficient of scapular dimensions amongst groups. Results: Superior transverse scapular ligament (STSL) was completely ossified in 8% of cases. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference between scapular dimensions of scapulae with completely ossified STSL compared to scapulae with other SSN types.
Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-cough medications which contain codeine (an opioid) are extensively a... more Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-cough medications which contain codeine (an opioid) are extensively available in Nigeria, and hence prone to overuse or abuse. The study aimed to understand the effects of oral codeine administration on the integrity of neurons of the cerebral cortex and cerebellum and its behavioral implications in male Wistar rats. Methods: Thirty adult male Wistar rats of comparable weights were obtained and randomly allocated into 5 groups: A, B, C, D, and E (n = 6). Drugs used for the study were Archilin TM with codeine and dihydrocodeine 30mg. Group A served as control and was administered 0.5mL/kg of normal saline. Groups B and C were treated with 1mg/kg and 2mg/kg of dihydrocodeine, respectively; Group D and E received 2mL/kg and 4mL/kg of Archilin TM codeine syrup, respectively. The Archilin TM codeine syrup and dihydrocodeine solutions were administered to the animals based on their body weight, orally and daily with the aid of oropharyngeal tubes for 21 days. The experimental animals were subjected to neurobehavioral studies using beam walk and open field. At the end of the treatment period, the animals were anesthetized with ketamine-hydrochloride intraperitoneally. The brains were quickly dissected out, rinsed with normal saline, and tissue processed for myelin studies. Results: The beam walking and open field result revealed that prolonged codeine administration interfered with motor function in the experimental animals. Sections of the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum of rats given normal saline showed normal myelin sheaths, whereas animals in the treatment group showed degenerating myelin compared to the control. Conclusion: Prolonged consumption of prescription codeine causes degeneration of the myelin sheaths and this may affect the conduction of electrical impulses in myelinated axons thus resulting in motor function insufficiency.
Background Nicotine form the major constituent of consumed tobacco and cigarettes throughout the ... more Background Nicotine form the major constituent of consumed tobacco and cigarettes throughout the World resulting in oxidative stress while garlic and honey have been shown to contain numerous natural antioxidants. We investigated the role of combined effects of garlic and honey on nicotine induced Cerebellar and behavioral toxicity in Wistar rats. Method : Forty rats were divided into eight groups of ve rats each. Group 1 received water only, Group 2 and 3 received 50 mg/kg of nicotine with garlic and honey at (300 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg) and (600 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg) respectively. Group 4 received 50 mg/kg of nicotine only, Group 5 received garlic 300 mg/kg and honey 1000 mg/kg before 50 mg/kg nicotine, Group 6 received garlic 600 mg/kg and honey 2000 mg/kg before 50 mg/kg nicotine. Group 7 and 8 received 50 mg/kg nicotine + 450 mg/kg garlic only and 1500 mg/kg honey only respectively. The administration was through oral route and lasted for 21 days respectively. Limb impairment and grip were conducted. After the administration, blood and cerebellum were harvested for lactate dehydrogenase assay, oxidative stress and histopathological analyses. Result There was signi cant decrease in body weight, grip strength and limb impairment in Group 4 with increase in Group 2 compared to the Control (p < 0.001). There was signi cant increase in LDH in Groups 2, 4, 7 and 8 with signi cant decrease in Group 3 compared to Group 1. The result showed signi cant decrease in SOD and CAT activities in all the groups compared to Group 1 (p < 0.001). Groups 1, 7 and 8 showed normal histology of the cerebellum while Group 4 showed areas of neuronal degeneration with distortions in histology and Groups 3, 5 and 6 showed few neural changes. Conclusion The study showed that garlic and honey may be useful in ameliorating nicotine toxicity dose-dependently which may be due to their antioxidant activity.
Background There are currently an estimated 38 million people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in the glo... more Background There are currently an estimated 38 million people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in the globe. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between Body mass index (BMI) and CD4 cell counts among people living with HIV attending Infectious Disease Hospital, Kano State. Method Two hundred HIV-positive and non-HIV positive above 18 years of age were recruited for the study. Blood samples were collected from both categories for the determination of CD4 count. The relationship between the height, weight, BMI, and CD4 cell counts was examined using Pearson correlation, and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result Mean heights of among male HIV subject (1.66 ± 0.07) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to female HIV subjects (1.54 ± 0.09). BMI was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in female HIV subjects (24.74 ± 4.95) when compared to male HIV subjects (21.78 ± 2.73). There was a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.280,...
Over time, the use of plant-derived agents in the management of various human health conditions h... more Over time, the use of plant-derived agents in the management of various human health conditions has gained a lot of attention. The study assessed the hepatoprotective potential of ethyl acetate fraction Tamarindus indica leaves (EFTI) during prenatal aluminum chloride exposure. Pregnant rats were divided into 5 groups (n = 4); Group I rats were administered 2 ml kg − 1 of distilled water (negative control), Group II rats received only 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride (positive control), Group III rats were administered 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride and 400 mg kg − 1 EFTI, Group IV rats were administered 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride and 800 mg kg − 1 EFTI, Group V rats were administered 200 mg kg − 1 aluminum chloride and 300 mg kg − 1 Vit E (comparative control). On postnatal day 1, the pups were euthanized, and liver tissues were harvested for the biochemical study (tissue levels of malondialdehyde, caspase-3, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferases) and the liver histological examination. The administration of EFTI was marked with significant improvement in the tissue levels of malondialdehyde, caspase-3, tumor necrosis factoralpha, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferases. There was a marked improvement in histopathological changes associated with prenatal aluminum chloride exposure. In conclusion, the administration of EFTI was protective during prenatal aluminum chloride exposure of the liver in Wistar rats, and is mediated by the anti-lipid peroxidative, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activity of EFTI.
The objective of the study was to assess; the level of knowledge, attitude and practice on cervic... more The objective of the study was to assess; the level of knowledge, attitude and practice on cervical cancer screening (CCS) among female university students (FUS) in Ishaka, western Uganda. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study among FUS (n = 407) in western Uganda conducted after the rst nationwide lockdown in Uganda. Information was collected using a questionnaire and descriptively presented as frequency and percentages. Majority of our respondents were medical students 283 (69.5%), below 25years 339 (83.3%), with Anglican Christian religious background 150 (36.9%). More respondents above the age of 25years (p = 0.0052) and those in the medical profession (p < 0.001) had more knowledge. More medical students had a better attitude (p = 0.0043) and favorable practices (0.0134) compared to their non-medical counterparts. There is a weak correlation between attitude (r = 0.206, p < 0.001) and practice (r = 0.181, p = 0.0003) with knowledge on CCS. Observation from the present study suggests the need for more efforts in the ght against cervical cancer and encouragement of positive attitude and practice towards cervical cancer screening and uptake of vaccination.
Aim: This study evaluated the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Catha edulis on the prefrontal co... more Aim: This study evaluated the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Catha edulis on the prefrontal cortex oxidative markers and hematological profile of Wistar rats. Study Design: The study design was experimental. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Kampala International University, Uganda and Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda. Between January and May, 2021. Methodology: Fresh C. edulis leaves were collected after on-spot identification, and authenticated before being chopped into small pieces and pulverized mechanically. The powdered material was extracted through cold maceration using 70% ethanol for 72 h. The extract was concentrated in vacuo to dryness at 40oC using rotary evaporator. The lethal dose (LD50) of the crude extract was determined using acute toxicity test. The sub-acute toxicity of the crude extract was evaluated by orally administering daily doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg ...
Aluminium exposure has been linked with developmental neurotoxicity in humans and experimental an... more Aluminium exposure has been linked with developmental neurotoxicity in humans and experimental animals. The study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of Tamarindus indica on the developing cerebellar cortex, neurobehavior, and immunohistochemistry of the cerebellar cortex following prenatal aluminum chloride (AlCl 3) exposure. Pregnant timed Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups (n=4). Group I (negative control) was given distilled water, group II was treated with 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 , group III were given 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 and 400 mg/kg of ethyl acetate leaf fraction of Tamarindus indica (EATI), group IV were given 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 and 800 mg/kg of EATI, and group V were treated with 200 mg/kg of AlCl 3 s/c and 300 mg/kg of vitamin E for 14 days (prenatal day 7-21) via the oral route. Male pups (n=6) were randomly selected and taken for neurobehavioral studies, and humanely sacrificed via intraperitoneal injection of thiopental sodium. The cerebellum was removed, fixed and tissue processed for histological and immunohistochemical studies. The results revealed that prenatal AlCl 3 exposure impacted neurodevelopment and neurobehaviour among exposed pups. Prenatal AlCl 3 exposure was marked with delayed cytoarchitectural development of the cerebellar cortex and increased GFAP expression in the cerebellar cortex. On the other hand, treatment with EATI and vitamin E were marked with significant improvements. The present study therefore concluded treatment with EATI shows an ameliorative effect to prenatal AlCl 3 exposure.
Background: Self-medication has become a serious public health problem posing great risks, especi... more Background: Self-medication has become a serious public health problem posing great risks, especially with the increasing number of cases of COVID-19 disease globally and in Uganda. This may be partly because of the absence of a recognized treatment for the disease, however, the differing prevalence and nature from country to country may influence human behavioral responses. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the behavioral response to self-medication practices during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown in comparison to the pre-COVID period in Western Uganda. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to August 2020 in western Uganda using online Google forms and printed questionnaires to investigate the level of self-medication practice before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. This included 280 participants, aged 18 and above who consented to participate in the study. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique, and sampling was done by sending a structured online questionnaire via Google forms and printed questionnaires to participants who did not use the online Google forms. Results: Respondents that knew about self-medication were 97% of the 272 participants. Those that are aware of self-medication, have heard about it either through different avenues. Respondents who practiced self-medication before the COVID-19 pandemic were 239 (88%); those who practiced self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic were 156 (57%); those that did not were 115 (43%). There was a statistically significant decrease in the number of respondents who practice self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown compared to the practice before the pandemic lockdown. p < 0.05 at 95% confidence interval (OR = 5.39, 95% CI = 3.48, 8.32). Conclusion: Our investigation showed adequate knowledge of self-medication and a high level of self-medication practice with a decrease in self-medication practices during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown compared to the practice before the lockdown.
Background: The imposed COVID-19 lockdown is taking a toll on mental health individuals, with low... more Background: The imposed COVID-19 lockdown is taking a toll on mental health individuals, with low-income earners considered most affected, as the imposed lockdown was accompanied with partial or complete loss of livelihood among low income earners. The study aimed to investigate level of education and relationship status on awareness of mental healthcare and explore how these factors influence mental health among low income earners in Western Uganda.Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was undertaken among low-income earners in South Western Uganda. Data were collected from two hundred and fifty-three (253) participants using a structured closed ended questionnaire. Anxiety, anger and depression were assessed using a modified generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7), Spielberger’s State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2 (STAXI-2) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) item tools respectively.Result: Most respondents were single male individuals with secondary level of education. R...
BackgroundStress among medical students is related to their academic lifespan; however, informati... more BackgroundStress among medical students is related to their academic lifespan; however, information on brain health among medical students from developing countries continues to be scarce. The objective of this study was to establish perceived academic stress levels, assess the ability to cope with stress, and investigate its effects on the visual reaction time (VRT), audio reaction time (ART), and tactile reaction time (TRT) in the somatosensory cortex among medical students of Uganda.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study conducted among preclinical (n = 88) and clinical (n = 96) undergraduate medical students at Kampala International University Western Campus. A standard Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was used to categorize stress into low, moderate, and severe while the ability to cope with stress was categorized into below average, average, above average, and superior stresscoper (SS). Data on reaction time were acquired through VRT, ART, and TRT using the catch-a-ruler experime...
Background—misinformation and mistrust often undermines community vaccine uptake, yet information... more Background—misinformation and mistrust often undermines community vaccine uptake, yet information in rural communities, especially of developing countries, is scarce. This study aimed to identify major challenges associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine clinical trials among healthcare workers and staff in Uganda. Methods—a rapid exploratory survey was conducted over 5 weeks among 260 respondents (66% male) from healthcare centers across the country using an online questionnaire. Twenty-seven questions assessed knowledge, confidence, and trust scores on COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials from participants in 46 districts in Uganda. Results—we found low levels of knowledge (i.e., confusing COVID-19 with Ebola) with males being more informed than females (OR = 1.5, 95% CI: 0.7–3.0), and mistrust associated with policy decisions to promote herbal treatments in Uganda and the rushed international clinical trials, highlighting challenges for the upcoming Oxford–AstraZene...
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Papers by Ibe M Usman