Girth anthropometry involves measuring the circumferences of various body parts, including the neck, upper arm, chest, mid-thigh, waist, and hips. These measurements are essential in numerous fields, impacting health, fitness, fashion, and forensic investigations. The study aims to evaluate grith anthropometric variation between the Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups of Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive study design where it comprised 1500 subjects (500 Hausa, 500 Igbo and 500 Yoruba) between 18-40 years. The subjects were sampled using a multi-stage random sampling technique and the minimum sample size was determined using Taro Yamane. The data were collected using a non-stretchable measuring tape and the data obtained were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25. T-test and ANOVA were used as inferential statistics. The analysis of sex-related differences in girth anthropometry among the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba ethnic groups in Nigeria reveals that males generally have higher mean values than females in various body measurements. Significant differences were found in neck and mid-arm circumferences for the Hausa ethnic group, while the Igbo ethnic group showed significant differences only in neck circumference. The Yoruba group exhibited significant differences in neck, mid-arm, chest, hip, and mid-thigh circumferences. Ethnic variations in girth measurements were observed among both males and females across all three groups. The study found noticeable sex—and ethnic-related differences in girth anthropometry among the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba ethnic groups in Nigeria. The findings will have health, forensic, and industrial implications. ...
The study of the patterns of the epidermal ridges of the finger, palm, and sole can help screen a variety of diseases, especially those caused by chromosomal aberrations, which are frequently accompanied by pattern distortion, as well as other genetically and non-genetically determined diseases. This review aimed to elucidate the potential role of dermatoglyphics as a screening tool in clinical medicine. Relevant literature was searched using the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to assess peer-reviewed articles using a combination of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms. Although the exact mechanism of inheritance is unknown, dermatoglyphic patterns are thought to be genetically controlled which explains their unique significance as a perfect marker for individual identification and population studies, as well as the detection of abnormalities caused by intra-uterine anomalies in the early weeks of pregnancy. Studies have linked dermatoglyphic variations to chromosomal disorders and predisposition to certain diseases hence accentuating the possible role of palmar dermatoglyphics in the prevention and diagnosis of a variety of medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, schizophrenia, sickle cell disease, autism, and Down syndrome. This review therefore explores the significance of palmar dermatoglyphics in early disease detection, risk assessment, and personalized medicine, highlighting its potential as a non-invasive, cost-effective tool in clinical practice. ...
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a complex multifactorial condition arising from changes in disc morphology, extracellular matrix and neurovascular composition. This study investigated the effect of Gallic acid on the histoarchitecture of the intervertebral disc of rabbit subjected to annular puncture. Twenty (20) New Zealand white rabbits were divided into 4 groups (n=5). Group A (non-punctured) received normal saline orally as placebo; Group B underwent annular puncture (punctured control group) and received normal saline orally for 8 weeks; Group C received 500 mg/kg bw of Gallic acid orally for 8 weeks immediately after puncture; Group D received 500 mg/kg bw of Gallic acid orally after 4 weeks post puncture for 4 weeks. After the experimental period, the disc height index, histomorphometric studies, biochemical analysis, gene expression for collagen type I, collagen type II, Aggrecan and Matrix Metaloproteinase-13, and expression level of Bax were measured and analysed. There was a significant difference in disc height index among the punctured-treated groups compared to the punctured non-treated group. The morphology of the intervertebral disc was preserved and significant restoration in the structural architecture of both the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus was observed in group C compared to group B. However, the oxidative stress markers (catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione) collagen type II and aggrecan levels were significantly increased with a corresponding decrease in malondialdehyde, collagen type I, Matrix Metaloproteinase-13, and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) levels. Gallic Acid administration prevents and restores annular punctured disc degeneration attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential....
The hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) system is mostly affected by toxins, which can cause infertility in mammals. This research investigated the role of Curcuma longa on Ketamine toxicity in the HPO axis of rats. Twenty-five female Wistar rats were assigned into five groups of five rats after seven days of acclimatization. Group A received water and served as control. Groups B, C, D, and E received 10 mg/kg of Ketamine intraperitoneally at intervals of 2 days for five times each, and Groups C, D, and E received 250 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg of Curcuma longa orally for 14 days. Blood samples were used to study hormonal concentrations and oxidative stress markers. The result showed a significant decrease in weight in the ketamine untreated group. The (5.78±0.04), malondialdehyde superoxide dismutase (SOD) (15.60±0.40), and catalase (CAT) (28.82±0.28) enzyme concentrations were also lowered in the ketamine group but showed improvement in the treated groups. The serum concentration of estrogen (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), ant-diuretic hormone (ADH), luteinizing hormone (LH), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and cortisol were all lowered by ketamine compared to control at p?0.05, which was improved by the extract. The alterations caused by ketamine toxicity were ameliorated by C. longa. Ketamine is a toxic drug with increased MDA and Lowered antioxidants such as SOD, but C. longa may be very productive in reducing these toxic effects. ...
Occupational dichlorvos exposure can cause organophosphate poisoning, which can be fatal if left untreated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aqueous leaf extract of Cymbopogon citratus on dichlorvos-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis in Wistar rats. Thirty Wistar rats weighing between 236 and 256 g were divided into five groups of six rats each. Group A rats were administered feed and water only. Group B rats were exposed to 2 puffs of dichlorvos. Group C rats received 500 mg/kg body weight per day (BWT/D) of Cymbopogon citratus only. Groups D and E rats were exposed to 2 puffs of dichlorvos and received 250 mg/kg BWT/D and 500 mg/kg BWT/D of Cymbopogon citratus respectively. The dosages of the extract were given for 30 days via an orogastric tube. At the end of the 30th day of exposure, the animals were euthanized under chloroform anaesthesia and the lungs were harvested and processed for histological examination. The histological sections of the lungs of rats in Groups A, C, D and E showed normal histoarchitecture of the lungs. There were observable histological variations in the lung histoarchitecture of the rats exposed to dichlorvos (Group B) which include alveolar hemorrhage, bronchiolar hemorrhage, and interstitial infiltrates of inflammatory cells (evidence of hypersensitivity pneumonitis) This study demonstrates that Cymbopogon citratus has a protective role in combating dichlorvos-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis, characterized by reduced severity of bronchiolar and alveolar hemorrhage and interstitial inflammation, in Wistar rats. ...
Pituitary gigantism is a rare endocrine disease characterized by unusually tall stature with rapid growth velocity that occurs before the closure of the epiphyseal growth plates due to excess growth hormone often as a result of a benign secreting pituitary tumor. Three Dimensional Axial Tomography were performed on the feet of a patient diagnosed with pituitary gigantism. His right and left foot measurements are 40.55 cm (1.33 feet) and 40.47 cm (1.32 feet) respectively. A 28-year-old Venezuelan man was diagnosed at age 10 with pituitary gigantism through physical exams, brain imaging and laboratory tests. He received medical treatment and did not undergo surgical removal of the pituitary tumor. A study of the osseous morphology of his oversized feet was performed using Three Dimensional Axial Tomography. The assessed parameters included foot length, truncated foot length, foot breadth, arch height, arch index inter-metatarsal and measurements of all bones of the foot. Early findings and treatment of foot pathologies are possible through the use of 3D Axial Tomography. As far as we know, this is the first report on bone morphology images of oversized feet (currently, the world’s largest feet among the living)....
Cheek dimples (small indentations on the cheeks) and tongue rolling (the ability to fold the tongue) are dominant genetic traits observed in humans. Investigating these traits provides valuable insights into genetic inheritance patterns and their cultural significance across various populations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and ecological implications of dominant traits like cheek dimples and tongue rolling in individuals across Kwara, Kogi, and Niger states. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 348 North-Central Nigerians, including 231 males and 117 females aged 16 to 30. Data were collected on the presence or absence of cheek dimples, tongue rolling, and tongue-twisting, and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). A chi-square test was conducted with a confidence interval of ±0.5 at a 95% confidence level. Results indicated that 33% of participants had dimples, with 57% having dimples on both cheeks, 15% on the right cheek, and 35% on the left. Additionally, 48.3% of participants had parents with dimples. For tongue rolling, 66.7% of participants could roll their tongues, with 52.6%, 46.6%, 41.4%, and 53.7% able to twist their tongues to the right, left, and both directions and shape them into a U, respectively. These findings offer insights into the prevalence and variability of these traits within the population. ...
(CBD) on the prefrontal cortex, neurodevelopmental indices, placental morphology, and fetal growth in Wistar rats. Pregnant rats received 150 mg/kg of ?9-THC and CBD from gestational day 6 to day 19 or until delivery. Placental morphometry was assessed using Vernier calipers, while the prefrontal cortex morphology was evaluated histologically using Hematoxylin & Eosin staining. Neurodevelopmental indices were measured using reflex tests. Placental morphometric analysis at gestational day 19 revealed a significant increase in placental length (control: 1.40 ± 0.04 cm; experimental: 1.45 ± 0.22 cm, P < 0.05) and a significant reduction in placental area (control: 2.39 ± 0.0153 m²; experimental: 2.23 ± 0.07 m², P < 0.01). Fetal weight at gestational day 19 (control: 3.78 ± 0.043 g; experimental: 3.51 ± 0.064 g, P < 0.001) and pup weight at postnatal day 1 (control: 5.742 ± 0.081 g; experimental: 3.72 ± 0.039 g, P < 0.001) were significantly reduced. Reflex assessment in neonates showed reduction in righting (control: 1.78 ± 0.07; experimental: 1.08 ± 0.15, P < 0.001), forelimb grasp (control: 1.88 ± 0.06; experimental: 1.24 ± 0.13, P < 0.01), and cliff avoidance tests (control: 1.84 ± 0.06; experimental: 1.15 ± 0.14, p < 0.05). Morphology revealed disrupted blood spaces, trophoblast abnormalities, cortical disorganization, and neuronal vacuolation, indicating structural damage and stress. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to combined ?9-THC and CBD adversely affects placental integrity and neurodevelopmental outcomes, posing potential risks to fetal health. ...
The carrying angle (CA) is an important anthropometric parameter with a wide range of significance and applications in forensic medicine and clinical procedures that involve the upper extremities. This study was conducted to evaluate the CA among the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria and elucidate its significance. This study was conducted among 220 subjects comprising 100 males and 120 females between 18-25 years belonging to the Yoruba tribe in Southern Nigeria. The biodata of the subjects was obtained, and the CA was assessed as the angle formed between the longitudinal axes of the arm and forearm. Data obtained was presented as mean ± SD and comparison was conducted using t-test with p < 0.05 considered as statistically significant. Among the study population, the mean CA was 12.450 ± 3.180; the mean CA value among the males (11.340 ± 2.670) was significantly lower (p = 0.024) than that of the females (13.250 ± 3.110); and the mean left CA value (11.980 ± 3.020) was significantly lower (p = 0.024) than that of the right side (13.120 ± 2.630). The right CA was significantly higher than the left CA in females only (p = 0.045). The carrying angle showed significant (p...
The Body Bequest Program: Perception of Anatomy Teachers in Medical Schools in South-western Nigeria
The body bequest program is fast becoming a significant source of cadavers for anatomical study. Due to the shortage of cadavers for dissections in institutions across Nigerians, there is a need to investigate untapped sources of cadavers. The objective of this study was to ascertain and determine the awareness and attitude toward body donation programs among anatomy teachers in Western Nigeria hence a cross sectional study was conducted. Data was received from consenting teachers in all Departments of Anatomy in tertiary institutions in the South-western part of Nigeria by using convenient sampling method. Results showed that 34.9% had the foreknowledge of the body bequest program while 72.1% were aware of the scarcity of cadavers in their institution. When it came to voluntary body donation, only 51.2% were willing to donate their bodies, while 32.6% saw their religious belief as a hindrance to being a part of the program. These results suggest the need for a re-orientation of the teachers of anatomy about body donation which in turn will help the public to be more disposed to donate their bodies....
Natural iron-chelating agents from plants offer a promising alternative to synthetic chelators with potentially fewer side effects. Phytochemical analysis of the methanol leaf extract of Chasmanthera dependens (MLECD) confirms the presence of antioxidants known for their metal-chelating properties. This study investigated the effects of Chasmanthera dependens on the liver and blood in a simulated iron overload model. Twenty-five adult Wistar rats of both sexes with access to feed and water ad libitum were randomly assigned into five groups (A, B, C, D, & E) of five rats each. Group A was administered 1 ml of distilled water; B received 2 mg/kg of iron chloride (FeCl2); C received co-administration of 2 mg/kg FeCl2 and 200 mg/kg of MLECD; D received co-administration of 2 mg/kg FeCl2 and 400 mg/kg of MLECD and E received co-administration of 2 mg/kg FeCl2 and 800 mg/kg of MLECD daily for twenty-eight days. Initial and final weights of rats were taken before euthanization under chloroform anesthesia and subsequent tissue processing. One-way ANOVA statistical analysis was carried out, with significance set at P...
Elevated blood pressure (Hypertension) is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This cross-sectional study of one thousand (1000) Nigerian children and adolescents aged 7 to 18 years in Port-Harcourt City, Rivers State, Nigeria involved the measurements of anthropometric variables such as; height, weight and four skinfold thicknesses as well as blood pressure (systolic and diastolic B.P). Data obtained was analyzed using SPSS version 21 and XLSTAT statistical software. Results indicated the mean ages as; 12.2±2.52, 12.6±2.58, and 12.4±2.56 for males, females and the entire sample respectively. Mean body mass index (BMI) for the whole sample, males and females respectively were; 18.24±3.24, 17.64±3.12 and 18.73±3.26. The females showed significantly higher height and weight values and a significantly higher BMI than males (p...
has not always been the case; before the 1870s, students were forced to dissect available bodies quickly before body decomposition began. Evidence of mummified human remains from Egypt encouraged a search for the preservation of human bodies for anatomy studies. Among the thousands of mummies that were discovered, mummy-CIT8 (the screaming woman) continues to attract scientists and enthusiasts because of her horrific facial expression, which was uncommon. The particular reason for her appearance continues to elude researchers; however, speculations or hypotheses continue to mount. Some suggested natural processes like rigor mortis and muscle spasm, and others speculated poor ethical procedures from the embalmers. This present exploratory perspective projected a new look at the mummy CIT8 and does not think that muscle spasm or rigor mortis, neither jaw-dropping nor resulting from decomposition, was responsible for the "screaming woman’s "facial expression. Our exploratory analysis suggested that her frozen expression was obligatory and man-made. ...
This study presents a comparative examination of the hematological parameters, structure, and function of the thyroid gland between two rodent species: guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) and grasscutters (Thryonomys swinderianus), which are taxonomically distinct. They are important for research and agriculture, yet little is known about their comparative thyroidal morphology, physiology, and hematological profiles. The study utilized six grasscutters and six guinea pigs with an average weight of 1800±530 g and 210±20 g, respectively. The thyroid gland of the guinea pigs is compact, while the grasscutters are bilobed without an isthmus joining the lobes. The average weight of the guinea pigs’ and the grasscutters’ thyroid gland weight was found to be 1.69±0.26 g and 2.81±0.37 g, respectively. The relationship between thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine [T3] and thyroxine [T4]) of the guinea pigs and grasscutters was found to be in line with that of most mammals, with the T4 concentration being significantly higher than the T3 concentration. The differences in the Red Blood cell properties of the guinea pigs and grasscutters were found to be significant at P...
Adansonia digitata (A. digitata) is used in many African and Asian countries for food, beverage and medicine. Lead is one of the toxic heavy metals whose widespread use has resulted in continuous environmental contamination. The current study evaluated the effect of lead acetate on mice's liver, kidney, and bone tissues and the protective role of A. digitata fruit pulp. Twenty-five mice were distributed into five groups, each having five mice. The groups received distilled water, 50 mg/kg lead acetate, A. digitata methanolic fruit extract (ADMFE) at 250 mg/kg plus lead acetate, 500 mg/kg ADMFE plus lead acetate, and 50 mg/kg Succimer plus lead acetate, respectively, for four weeks. All the mice were euthanized thereafter, and the right kidneys, liver, and bone were processed for light microscopy. The left kidneys, part of the liver, and bone were dried and assayed for lead concentration using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The lead concentration in the kidney of mice pre-treated with 500 mg/kg ADMFE and succimer was significantly lower (p...
This study aimed to evaluate the decomposition rate in pig models that were either stabbed or eviscerated. Six pigs were divided into two groups (A and B), each consisting of three pigs. After euthanizing the animals via stunning, pigs in group A were subjected to repeated stab wounds in the trunk and lower abdomen, while those in group B were eviscerated by creating semi-lunar incisions to fully expose the abdominal organs. The decomposition process was monitored over 15 days, observing signs such as swelling, color change, and tissue liquefaction. The results showed that stabbing accelerates the decomposition process by providing additional points of entry for bacteria and insects, leading to a more rapid advancement through the bloat and active decay phases. Evisceration accelerates the decay process by directly exposing internal organs to the environment, leading to rapid colonization by microorganisms and tissue destruction. The rate of decomposition in eviscerated carrions was significantly greater than in stabbed pigs, indicating the direct involvement of organ exposure. Both stabbing and evisceration play a crucial role in influencing the rate of decomposition. These findings enhance the precision and accuracy of postmortem interval estimates in forensic cases that involve severe trauma, thereby aiding investigators in reconstructing the circumstances surrounding the death. ...
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a widely used chemotherapeutic and immunosuppressive agent, however, its clinical applications are often limited by its severe toxicity, particularly affecting the liver and kidneys. The search for natural protective agents against CP-induced toxicity has gained significant attention. Nigella sativa oil (NSO), derived from black seeds, has been recognized for its hepatoprotective properties. This study investigated the protective efficacy of NSO against CP-induced hepatorenal toxicity in adult female Wistar rats, by evaluating the potential of NSO in mitigating CP-induced hepatic and renal damage through biochemical, hematological, and histopathological assessments. Twenty-five female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups (n=5): two control groups (positive control received normal saline, negative control received CP) and three treatment groups that received 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg of NSO combined with 0.5 mg/kg CP via the orogastric route for 21 days. Hematological, serum biochemical parameters, organ weights, and tissue histopathology were evaluated. Acute toxicity studies revealed no mortality or adverse effects at 5000 mg/kg NSO. Sub-acute toxicity results showed significant increases (p < 0.05) in body and organ weights across all groups. Hematological analysis indicated a dose dependent increase in white blood cell count. Liver enzymes and urea levels increased in the highest dosage group (p < 0.05), in contrast, glucose, total cholesterol and triglycerides decreased significantly. Histopathological examination revealed reduction of necrosis and inflammation. These findings suggest the protective potential of NSO against drug-induced toxicity. ...
Propoxur is a carbamate insecticide widely used both in indoor and outdoor place to control insects. This present work was conducted to study the effect of acute and chronic exposure of propoxur (PPX) on hormonal and histological changes in the rat Hypothalamic-pituitary testicular axis. The control (group 1) received physiological saline, group 2, received PPX by inhalation every other day for one month while group 3, received PPX by inhalation every other day for two months. A significant decrease in the level of testosterone (TT) and increase in follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were observed in PPX treated groups. Histological studies of the PPX treated rat hypothalamus, pituitary gland and testis revealed variable degrees of degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules up to total cellular destruction. There was no reversal of destruction 30 days after withdrawal of the insecticide, indicating a persistent effect. The above-mentioned findings suggest that acute and chronic exposure to PPX insecticide has an obvious deleterious effect on rat Hypothalamic-pituitary testicular axis. Therefore, inhalation of such insecticide should be limited with special care in handling to limit or minimize its hazards. ...
Cell phones are defined as devices emitting radiofrequency electromagnetic waves (RF-EMW). These waves transmit signals from the cell phones to the base stations and antennas. The number of cell phone users in the world has gone up to 6 billion being the most effective communication tools all over the world and this increase is expected to continue as such, the amount of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) exposure will continue to increase steadily. The rise in cell phone usage has raised health concerns about electromagnetic field exposure, which could potentially damage genetic material of the cell. Damage to somatic DNA can lead to cancer or cell death, while germ cell damage can cause genetic damage in future generations. This review paper looks at genetic disorders, the evolution of cell phones and its related technological advancements, the roles of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation from cell phones in genetic damages and the possible mechanisms. Researches has shown, both epidemiological and experimental, in non-human animals and in humans, some of which had shown causative relationship between exposure to mobile phones and harmful biological effects in humans. Deletions, inversion and dicentric chromosomes alone are reliable indicators of mobile phone RFR on fetal chromosomes. Several studies reported that RF-EMF exposure from cell phones caused DNA strand breaks, chromatin conformation and condensation, increased damage through disturbances in spindle function. The formation of micronuclei and reactive oxygen species are some of the mechanisms reported with which genetic damage is caused following exposure to RF-EMF from cell phones. ...
Benue State has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in Nigeria, driven by a combination of high risk sexual behaviors and the presence of most-at-risk populations (MARPs). The mapping exercise aimed to provide accurate information on the size, location and characteristics of MARPs for HIV in key urban and semi-urban areas of the State, to help improve the scale, quality and impact of HIV prevention programs among these MARPs. A cross-sectional mapping study was conducted between April 2023 and February 2024 in ten local government areas (LGAs) of Benue State. The study utilized a two-stage approach: Level 1 involved interviews with key informants to identify hotspots, while Level 2 validated these locations. Data were managed using Microsoft Access and analyzed using descriptive statistics to estimate population sizes and distribution. The study identified 825 Female Sex Workers (FSWs) hotspots, 57 Men who have sex with men/Male Sex Workers (MSM/MSW) hotspots, and 32 IDU locations. The estimated population sizes were 10,034 FSWs, 1,018 MSM/MSWs, and 221 IDUs, with high-risk behaviors such as unprotected sex and needle sharing being prevalent. Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo had the highest concentrations of MARPs, with FSWs primarily operating in bars (32%) and hotels (28%), while MSM/MSWs were mostly found in home-based settings (31%). The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted HIV prevention interventions in high-prevalence LGAs, particularly focusing on harm reduction for IDUs and tailored outreach for FSWs and MSM/MSWs. The study provides evidence for policymakers to design effective, evidence-based responses to reduce HIV transmission in Benue State. ...
Buruli ulcer is a public health concern particularly where the knowledge about the disease is poor. An advent of an emerging wound ulcer epidemic was reported in North-central Nigeria in 2023. A study was then carried out between December 2023 to August 2024 to determine the prevalence and the knowledge about the infection among the Tiv people of North-central Nigeria who had reported the emerging strange wound ulcer disease. Descriptive epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and the causative agent of the emerging wound ulcer. Wound swabs were taken from the ulcers for laboratory confirmation that these infections were indeed those caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. Of the 1,030 people assessed (392) 38.09 % presented with the wound ulcer, confirmed to be Buruli ulcer caused by M. ulcerans infection (p>0.05). This infection cuts across all ages, occupation, gender, even educational levels and occupations. Traditional (88.6%) and spiritual (59.4%) means of infection were the dominant means by which the people believed the infection can be acquired. Mycobacterium ulcerans infection (Buruli ulcer) is highly prevalent and fast emerging among the Tiv people of North-central Nigeria. The knowledge about mode of infection and its means of spread is limited and very poor. There is the need for health authorities to intervene, mount health awareness campaigns on the disease, its mode of spread, prevention and control, to ameliorate the sufferings of these people and restore confidence among them. This will help to curb further spread of the infection. ...
Religiosity and spirituality promote good mental health and prevent mental illness but can sometimes become risk factors for substance abuse. This study aimed to assess the associations between religiosity, spirituality and psychoactive substance use among in-school adolescents in Ilorin. The data collection tools used includes a proforma test, WHO students drug use survey and the religiosity and spirituality index. A total of 2001 participants were included in the study using a proforma test, WHO students drug use survey and the Religiosity and Spirituality index, with 1083 being males between the ages of 15 - 19. Among them, 53% were Christians, 46.6% were Muslims, 0.2% practiced Traditional African Religion while three students had no religion. It was discovered that alcohol and analgesic use were more common among Christians, while organic solvent use was more prevalent among Muslims, with one of the four Traditional African Religion students also reporting organic solvent use. Our findings highlighted the impact of religiosity and spirituality in the prevalence and patterns of adolescent substance use. ...
Antenatal depression, with a global prevalence of between 15 and 65%, is a clinical condition characterised by persistent sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness during pregnancy. It is a strong predictor of postpartum depression, and it negatively impacts pregnancy outcomes, maternal-child bonding, and child development. Untreated antenatal depression could lead to an increased risk of obstetric complications, inadequate prenatal care, poor maternal nutrition, substance abuse, and in severe cases, maternal suicide. Despite being a significant global public health concern, antenatal depression is often overlooked in developing countries like Nigeria, both in terms of research and treatment. Consequently, only a few studies are focusing on antenatal depression, resulting in a poor understanding of the prevalence of depressive symptoms during pregnancy and their associated risk factors. This study aims to fill the gap in knowledge regarding antenatal depression in the Ilorin population. A cross-sectional study was conducted among over 200 pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, where participants were administered a battery of questionnaires (ANRQ, PHQ-9, and QIDSS-163) after obtaining informed consent. The results were analysed using. The results showed that the level of education (ANRQ, QIDSS 16), number of live births (QIDSS-16), age, and number of children (PHQ-9) have a positive impact on the risk and severity of antenatal depression in pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at UITH. Age, level of education, number of live births, and number of children are strong predictors of the risk and severity of antenatal depression. ...
Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STHs) are a group of intestinal parasitic nematodes causing diseases in humans when exposed to their infective stages (eggs or larvae) thriving in warm and moist soil. This study ascertains the prevalence of STHs among school children in urban and rural communities in North-Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional study involving 1,372 randomly selected school children, aged 4 to 12 years from twelve public primary schools was conducted between November 2023 and May 2024. Stool specimens were collected from 686 pupils from Rural schools and 686 from Urban schools and examined using the direct wet mount and formal-ethyl acetate concentration techniques. Of the 1,372 stool specimens examined, 231(16.8%) were infected with at least one type of STHs comprising 18.3% and 15.3% prevalence in rural and urban communities respectively. Parasites identified were eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, Ancylostoma duodenale and larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis. The age group 7–9 years had the highest prevalence of 23.4%, but no significant difference seen in prevalence across age groups. Males (19.1%) had significantly higher infection than females (13.8%) in both rural and urban communities (p=0.036). The high prevalence of STHs infections in this study underscores the need for regular health education programs among pupils to further inculcate the practice of proper hygiene and the provision of social amenities in primary schools by concerned government agencies. Additionally, regular deworming of pupils is essential to reduce the disease burden. ...
Hypertension is a condition arising from persistently elevated blood pressure, leading to severe complications, including death. Factors such as high salt consumption and family history predispose individuals to hypertension. Azadirachta indica (AI) has shown potential in reducing high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and abnormal heartbeats. This study aimed to assess the antihypertensive effect of Azadirachta indica methanolic leaf extract (AIMLE) on salt-induced hypertension in albino rats. The study involved 25 healthy male albino rats (150 - 250g), divided into five groups (A-E, n=5). Group A received normal salt feed and water (vehicle), group B received high-salt feed (HSF), group C received HSF and 500 mg/kg AIMLE, group D received HSF and 1000 mg/kg AIMLE, and group E received HSF and 10 mg/kg Nifedipine. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures were measured using the tail cuff method. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) levels were analyzed using ELISA methods. Nitric Oxide, Potassium, Bicarbonate, and Sodium were assayed using the colorimetric method. Administration of HSF caused a significant (p ...