Showing papers in "African Journal of Biomedical Research in 2010"

Antibacterial and phytochemical studies on twelve species of Indian medicinal plants

Abstract: The aqueous and methanol extracts of 12 plants each belonging to different families were evaluated for antibacterial activity against medically important bacteria viz. B. cereus ATCC11778 , S. epidermidids ATCC12228 , E. aerogenes ATCC13048, P. vulgaris NCTC 8313, S. typhimurium ATCC 23564. The in vitro antibacterial activity was performed by agar disc diffusion and agar well diffusion method. The aqueous extracts were inactive but methanol extracts showed some degree of antibacterial activity against the tested bacterial strains. S. typhimurium was the most resistant bacteria while B. cereus was the most susceptible bacteria. Amongst the plant species screened, methanol extract of Bauhinia variegata bark showed best antibacterial activity. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 10: 175 – 181)

Heavy metal contamination of clarias gariepinus from a lake and fish farm in ibadan, nigeria.

Abstract: Adult Clarias gariepinus (African Catfish) were purchased from Eleiyele Lake and Zartech fish farm in Ibadan. Water samples were also collected in February (dry season) and June (rainy season), 2002. Gill, bone, intestine, muscle and water samples were analyzed for five metals: manganese, copper, zinc, iron, and chromium by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) in two separate experiments. In each case, two tissues were compared with the levels of the metals in water viz: Gill, bone, and water; intestine, muscle and water. Generally, lower concentrations of the metals were recorded in water than fish tissues. Higher concentrations of zinc than recommended by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency were recorded in the fish during the dry season. Iron was the dominant metal in the muscle while Chromium was the least. Significant differences (p

Effect of Melatonin on Carbon Tetrachloride- Induced Kidney Injury in Wistar Rats

Abstract: Exposure to carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induces acute and chronic renal injuries as well as oxidative stress in rats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of exogenous melatonin (MEL) treatment on CCl4-induced oxidative stress and nephrotoxicity in rats using histopathological and biochemical parameters. Serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), nitrite and albumin concentrations were measured for the evaluation of renal function. Antioxidant status in the kidney tissue was estimated by determining the activities of superoxide dismustase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) as well as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. For histopathological evaluation, kidney of all rats were excised and processed for light microscopy. CCl4 caused elevated level of TBARS and marked depletion of renal endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, severe deterioration of renal function was observed in CCl4-treated rats as assessed by increased serum creatinine, BUN levels and decreased creatinine and urea clearance as compared with the control rats. MEL treatment positively ameliorated the alterations in these biochemical variables in the CCl4 + MEL-treated rats. MEL markedly reduced elevated TBARS and nitrite, significantly attenuated renal dysfunction, increased the levels of antioxidant enzymes. Kidney sections of CCl4-treated group showed, changes in microanatomy. In contrast, these deleterious histopathological alterations resulting from CCl4 nephrotoxin were absent after MEL treatment in CCl4 + MEL group of rats. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that MEL through its antioxidant activity effectively ameliorated CCl4- induced nephrotoxicity. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 10: 153 – 164)

Physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses of water used for drinking and swimming purposes in abeokuta, nigeria.

Abstract: Physicochemical and bacteriological analyses were carried out on well water, stream water and river water used for drinking and swimming purposes in Abeokuta, Nigeria. The results obtained were compared with WHO and EPA standards for drinking and recreational water. With the exception of Sokori stream and a well water that did not comply with Turbidity and Mg2+ standards respectively, all others were within the standards set for PH, Color, Total solids, Total dissolved solids, acidity, total hardness, Ca2+ hardness, chloride and Iron. None of the samples complied with bacteriological standards as Total coliform counts generally exceeded 1,600 MPN/ml, and pathogen count such as Salmonella-Shigella counts and Vibrio cholerae counts were very high. The presence of pathogens in water for drinking and swimming purposes is of public health significance considering the possibility of the presence of other bacteria, protozoa and enteric viruses that are implicated in gastro-intestinal water borne diseases and the low infectious dose for these water borne pathogens. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 285- 290) Key words: drinking water, swimming, bacteria, analysis, Abeokuta

Antimicrobial activities of calotropis procera on selected pathogenic microorganisms

Abstract: The antimicrobial effect of ethanol, aqueous and chloroform extracts of leaf and latex of Calotropis procera on six bacteria namely, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus albus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae and three fungi: Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Microsporium boulardii and one yeast Candida albicans were determined using agar well diffusion and paper disk methods. The results revealed that ethanol was the best extractive solvent for antimicrobial properties of leaf and latex of C. procera followed in order by Chloroform and aqueous (P widest zone of inhibition (14.1mm) against E-coli using agar well diffusion while 9.0 mm was recorded for the same organism in the disc plate method.The growth of six bacterial isolates were inhibited by the three extracts except P.aeruginosa and S.pyogenes that were not inhibited by the aqueous extracts of both leaf and latex of C.procera. Similarly, the growth of four test fungi were inhibited by ethanol and chloroform extracts while the aqueous extract was the least effective on the test fungi. The best antifungal activity was recorded in ethanol extract of C.procera latex against Candida albicans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the ethanol extract was between 5.0 and 20.0 mg/ml for fungi. This study revealed that the C.procera latex demonstrated strong inhibitory effect on the test organisms than C.procera leaf. The results therefore established a good support for the use of C.procera in traditional medicine (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 105 – 110) Key words: Calotropis procera, antimicrobial, extract

Phytochemical and antibacterial properties of Parkia biglobosa and Parkia bicolor leaf extracts

Abstract: The comparative studies of different extracts of the leaves of Parkia biglobosa (Jacq) Benth and Parkia bicolor A. Chev (Mimosaceae) with respect to their photochemical and antimicrobial properties was carried out. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed that both plants had similar constituents namely cardiac glycosides, steroids, tannins and alkaloids. The thin layer chromatography of the hexane and ethanol extracts of both plants were also investigated and two of the components of the ethanol extracts of both plants were found to display similar properties. The antimicrobial screening of the hexane, ethyl acetate, ethanol and water extracts of both plant leaves were done using standard strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Esherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus niger and Candida utilis. The ethyl acetate, ethanol and water extracts exhibited a concentration dependent antibacterial, inhibiting the growth of the gram-positive bacteria used in the study. Extracts of P. bicolor were slightly more active than those of P. biglobosa.

Medicinal and economic value of spondias mombin

Abstract: This article reviewed the folk medical value of Spondias mombin with the correlated research findings on the uses of Spondias mombin. Most of the folk uses had been scientifically proven in most of the regions where those beliefs are based. The plant was described with habitat, the local uses including the uses of its parts mentioned. We reviewed the ethnomedicinal uses, the biological activities and the phytochemistry of Spondias mombin. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 129 - 136) Key Words; Spondias mombin, Neurological, Sedative, Antipsychotic, Antiepileptic, GABA-nergic transmission

Effects of Zingiber Officinale on Reproductive Functions in the Male Rat

Abstract: To investigate the effects of Zingiber Officinale on male reproductive functions and study the mechanisms underlying these effects, aqueous extract of Zingiber Officinale were administered orally to two groups of male rats at 500mg/kg b.w. and 1000mg/kg b.w. A third group served as control and received the treatment vehicle, distilled water. Treatment lasted for 14 and 28 days before sacrifice. Organ weight, epididymal sperm counts, motility, viability and morphology, seminal fructose, testicular malonhydialdehyde, and serum testosterone were determined. The treatment caused a significant increase (P and androgenic activities. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 329 - 334 ) Key Words: Zingiber Officinale, testosterone, androgenic, malonhydialdehyde and sperm.

Effect of aqueous leaf extract of tridax procumbens on blood pressure and heart rate in rats.

Abstract: The Cardiovascular effects of aqueous extract from the leaf of Tridax procumbens were investigated on anaesthetized Sprague-Dawley rat. The intravenous administration of 3, 6, and 9mg/Kg of the aqueous extract caused significant decreases in the mean arterial blood pressure in a dose-related manner; i.e. the extract caused greater decrease in the mean arterial blood pressure at higher dose than at lower dose. Also, higher doses of the extract-6mg/Kg and 9mg/Kg caused significant reductions in the heart rate while lower dose of the extract- 3mg/Kg did not cause any significant change in the heart rate. The hypotensive and the bradycardiac effects were immediate. The hypotensive effect of Tridax procumbens was inhibited by the pretreatment of the animal with atropine sulfate (1mg/kg). These results therefore seem to support the claim that the leaves of Tridax procumbens has hypotensive effect and that the mechanism of its action is possibly through activation of muscarinic cholinergic receptors.

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection among Pregnant Women in Makurdi, Nigeria.

Abstract: The prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) carrier and infectivity status among three hundred (300) pregnant women in Makurdi were determined through random anonymous testing of volunteers attending antenatal clinics of different Hospitals within the metropolis. HBV carriage status was determined by the presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Repeated reactive samples were confirmed by Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit (Bio Rad, France). Maternal HBV infectivity status was determined by testing all HBsAg positive samples for the presence of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg). Overall, 33 (11%) pregnant women were identified as carriers of HBV and 10 of the 33 (30.3%) pregnant women identified as HBV carriers tested positive for HBeAg. Hence, 3.3% of the entire study population was found to have high viral replication as well as high risk of transmitting HBV to their neonates. The frequency of HBV carriers did not vary with age, however it varies significantly with the anaemic status of the subjects (P infection among pregnant women. Key words: Hepatitis B Virus - Hepatitis B surface antigen - Hepatitis Be antigen – Pregnant Women – Prevalence

Effect of Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) on Sodium Arsenite- Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Rats

Abstract: Arsenite is a major environmental chemical and a known reproductive toxicant via the depression of spermatogenesis and androgenesis in males. The possibility of sodium arsenite reproductive toxicity been caused by autooxidation was investigated in this study taking advantage of the anti-oxidant properties of ginger and its androgenic activities. The effect of exposure to sodium arsenite (10 mg/kg BW/day) by gavage via oral cannula without or with aqueous ginger extract (500mg/kg BW/day) co-treatments for 30 days was evaluated in adult male rats. The weight of the reproductive organs, sperm count, motility, and morphology were evaluated. Plasma FSH, LH and testosterone levels were assayed. Lipid peroxidation (indexed by MDA) and antioxidants enzymes likes GSH, SOD, CAT were assessed. Sodium arsenite treatment decreased the reproductive organs weight: testis, epididymis, prostate and seminal vesicle; sperm functions: count, motility and normal morphology; plasma hormones level: FSH, LH and testosterone. There was a decrease in the activities of GSH, SOD and CAT as well as an increase in MDA concentration. Co-administration of aqueous ginger extract with arsenite was found to protect against adverse change in the reproductive organ weight, attenuate the decrease in sperm functions, enhance plasma reproductive hormones level along with increased antioxidants activities and reduced peroxidation. This study showed that sodium arsenite apart from being a hormonal disrupter also causes oxidative stress which contributed to the reproductive damage in the male rats. The protective effects of ginger on reproductive toxicity and oxidative stress as evidenced by the clear restoration of sperm functions, testicular steroidogenesis and reproductive organo-somatic indices could be attributed to its antioxidants and androgenic properties. Key Words : Arsenite, Ginger, Antioxidants and Sperm.

Pharmacological evaluation of oral hypoglycemic and antidiabetic effects of fresh leaves ethanol extract of morinda lucida benth. in normal and alloxan- induced diabetic rats

Abstract: In the present study, 50 – 400 mg/kg of body weight/day of 50% ethanol extract of the fresh leaves of Morinda lucida Benth. (MLE) was investigated for its hypoglycemic and antidiabetic effects in adult normal and alloxaninduced diabetic male rats for 7 days. Acute oral toxicity study of MLE at the limit dose of 2000 mg/kg of body weight using Up-and-Down Procedure on statistical program, AOT425Pgm, was also conducted. Results showed that MLE significantly (p<0.05) lowered the fasting blood glucose (FBG) in both normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats in dose related fashion, and its effect was higher (p<0.001) than that of tolbutamide (Tolb.). Results suggest that MLE could be mediating its hypoglycemic effect via enhanced peripheral glucose utilization. Also, acute oral toxicity result showed MLE to be nonlethal at 2000 mg/kg of body weight. These results suggest that MLE could be relatively safe on acute exposure when administered to suspected diabetic patients. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 65 - 71)

Phototherapy — a treatment modality for wound healing and pain relief

Abstract: When applied properly, phototherapy or Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has proved to be very efficient in relieving pain and improving wound healing. However, until recently there has been a lack of scientific scrutiny concerning the clinical efficacy of this procedure. This does not mean that phototherapy does not work. A search for “laser” and “therapy” on the ISI Web of Knowledge database reported that the USA accounts for 35.69% of the research material while only 18 papers were reported from South Africa (1987-2006) which accounts for 0.17% of the 10 652 papers analyzed. Despite the lack of scientific research, clinical results have been exceptional. Clinicians around the world, based on their professional experiences, confirm the analgesic effect of phototherapy. Unfortunately, from a strictly scientific point of view, these reports are hardly conclusive. There has been little or no standardization in the application of phototherapy. This review investigates key aspects of phototherapy and the efficacy of laser therapy for specific applications namely, wound healing and pain relief. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 10:

An assessment of dietary diversity in six Nigerian states.

Abstract: Normal 0 false false false EN-ZA X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Normal 0 false false false EN-ZA X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Diet quality (DQ) has been receiving increased attention because of its relationship to diet-related chronic non-communicable diseases. It has been stated that in addition to smoking and inactivity diet is thought to play a major role in chronic disease risk in men and women. One aspect of diet quality is diversity or variety. Diet diversity (DD) or variety has been reported to be associated with nutrient adequacy and nutritional status. It has also been suggested as a means of estimating food security. A diverse range of foods has been shown to increase energy and micronutrients intake in the developing countries. Diversity or variety in Nigeria diets is not known. A cross-sectional descriptive study design was adopted and a semi-structured questionnaire with in-built 24hr diet recall section was the tool for data collection. A 14-food group model was used to evaluate DD. DD was based on the number of food groups consumed in the previous 24hr period. A dietary diversity score (DDS) ranging from 0 to 14 was constructed. A DDS terciles for low, medium and high was also constructed. DD of Nigerian diet was evaluated in six states; the states were selected to represent the three Agro- ecological zones, rural and urban sectors of Nigeria. A thousand four hundred and seventy-two (1472) women with a mean age (SD) of 27.9 (6.2) yrs participated in this study. Majority (97.1%) were married, occupation included traders (21.5%), civil servants (23.9%), artisan (19.1%) and farmers (15.4%). Overall, mean dietary diversity score (DDS) was 5.81 (1.4). This varied from 6.61 in Akwa-Ibom state to 4.98 in Kaduna state .Overall 83% of the participants had average/medium DDS (5-9) while 16.5% had low (1-4) DDS. These varied significantly between the states. Low DDS (1-4) was 25% and 33% in the states in the dry Savanna zone but 12.8% and 10% in the states in moist Savanna zone and 6.4 and 6.2 in humid forest. These differences are significant (p<0.05). In conclusion dietary diversity is poor in Nigeria, worse in the DS than the and better in the HF zone. There is need to further explore diet quality and diversity in Nigeria. Efforts to improve nutritional status must address the issue of dietary diversity.

Antimicrobial activities of two Nigerian edible macro-fungi- lycoperdon pusilum (Bat. Ex)and lycoperdon giganteum(Pers.))

Abstract: Two edible Nigerian macro-fungi Lycoperdon pusilum and Lycoperdon giganteum were assayed in-vitro for their antimicrobial activities using water, methanol and ethanol as extractive solvents. Generally, the extracts were selectively active on few clinical pathogenic microorganisms. Ethanol was the best extractive solvent followed in order by methanol and water (P inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the ethanolic extract was between 0.75 and 4.0mg/ml for bacteria, and between 9.00 and 13.75mg/ml for fungi. The extracts were found to be stable at temperatures up to 50oC. As the temperature was increased from 60 to 100oC, there was a significant decrease in stability of the extract. The implications of these observations are discussed.

Anti-flammatory and analgesic properties of the rhizome extract of zingiber officinale

Abstract: The rhizome extract of Zingiber officinale was investigated for anti inflammatory and analgesic properties in albino rats and Swiss mice respectively. The extract (50 and 100 mg/kg b.w) produced significantly (P<0.05) inhibition of the carrageenan – induced rat paw oedema and a reduction in the number of writhing induced by acetic acid in mice. The results show that rhizome extract of Z. officinale possesses anti inflammatory and analgesic agent(s).

A study of wound infections in two health institutions in Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Abstract: The microbiological analysis of wound infection in 102 patients was undertaken in the outpatient departments of the University Teaching Hospital and the Health Centre in Ile-Ife, Nigeria The location and type of wound was considered and identification of bacterial isolates was determined by standard microbiological techniques Forty per cent of wound types was attributed to trauma and in most cases, were located at the extremities A total of one hundred and sixty two bacterial isolates were obtained from wound cultures In 39 cases, cultures were monomicrobial, 55 cultures were polymicrobial but no bacterial isolate was obtained in eight cases Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant microorganism (25%) followed by Escherichia coli (12%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (9%) The diversity of microorganisms and the high incidence of polymicrobic flora in this study give credence to the value of identifying one or more bacterial pathogens from wound cultures Continuous dialogue between the microbiology department and wound care practitioners and education of patients on personal hygiene is strongly advised

Lethal and sub-lethal effects of copper to the african catfish ( clarias gariepinus ) juveniles

Abstract: Lethal and sub-lethal effects of copper on Clarias gariepinus were studied using a 96-hour static bioassay. Copper (as copper chloride, CuCl2 . H2O) was used to prepare the stock solution from which five standard concentrations 0.0, 1.8, 3.2, 5.6, and 10.0 mg/L were prepared (coded A – E). 15 juvenile C. gariepinus fish having a mean weight and length 5.8g and 18 cm respectively were used. The 96-hour LC50 estimated using the logarithm method were 0.6, 0.71 and 0.7 mg/l for replicates 1, 2 and 3 respectively with mean as 0.67mg/l. Haematological changes were generally not significant (P> 0.05). Copper concentrations in bone and muscle-tissues were also determined. The mean copper concentration in bone ranged from 1.86 (treatment A) to 17.04 ppm (Treatment E) and muscle 1.29 (treatment A) to 55.5 ppm (treatment E). There were significant differences (p<0.05) in mortality among treatments.

Antimicrobial Effect of Phyllanthus amarus and Parquetina nigrescens on Salmonella typhi

Abstract: Phyllanthus amarus and Paraquetina nigrescens are economic plants grown in West Africa for antimicrobial properties. Crude aqueous (hot and cold water) and ethanolic extracts of the plants were investigated for antimicrobial activity against Salmonella typhi. The organism was collected from the University College Hospital, lbadan, Nigeria and was exposed to ten standard different antibiotics and also to crude extract of P. amarus and P. nigrescens. Agar cup diffusion method was employed fro the plants extracts while disk diffusion method for the standard antibiotics. Ethanolic extracts of P. amarus had the strongest activity against Salmonella typhi with 8.0mm zone of growth inbibition followed by hot water (4.7mm) and cold water (3.8mm). This was statistically significant at P= 0.05 when compared with hot and cold water extracts. Amongst the commercial antibioticis examined, ciprofloxacin had the highest zone of growth inhibition of 9.0mm; Oflxation (6.0mm) Amoxycillin, (4.0mm) while other antibiotics had on effect on test organism. Screening carried out on P. amarus and P. nigrescens using standard methods revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, tannins and cardiac glycosides. P. amarus possesses significant antimicrobial activity and confirms the justification by herbalists as extract used for treatment of typhoid fever. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 215 - 219) Key Words: P. amarus, P. nigrescens, antimicrobial activity, standard antibiotics, typhoid fever

Quality of packaged waters sold in ibadan, nigeria

Abstract: The inadequacy of pipe borne water supplies in urban centres is a growing problem. As a result, communities resort to buying water from vendors. In recent years, sachet or bottled water became major sources of drinking water in the households and at work. This study aimed at assessing the chemical and bacteriological quality of packaged water sold in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State with a population over 3.2 million. A total number of 118 samples of water from several commercial brands sold in the city of Ibadan were selected by simple random sampling. These were of three categories, those that are packed and sealed in bottles by larger factories (bottled water), those sealed in nylon sachets by small scale industries (A Type), and those put in nylon sachets and manually tied by itinerary vendors (B Type). These samples were subjected to physical, chemical and bacteriological analysis. Hanna C 100 spectrophotometer and analytical quality chemical reagents were used for chemical analyses. MacConkey broth (MB) and Brilliant Green Bile Broth (BGBB) were used for bacteriological analysis using multiple tube method as described in APHA Standard Methods. The results showed that while the physical parameters were within WHO limits for drinking water quality guidelines values, 30 % of the samples showed rather poor quality. The pH values ranged between 6.6 - 9.7 and aluminum ranged from 0.00 - 0.34 mg/1, fluoride from 0.01 - 1.87mg/l and cyanide from 0.0 - 0.175 which were not within permissible limits. Bacteriological analysis showed that 5% of the 78 samples (A Type), and 28% of the 30 samples (B Type) tested showed positive coliform counts . The dominant bacteria were Klebsiella sp., Streptococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Thus the bottled waters were satisfactory, but the sachet waters were found not satisfactory. Based n the results, it is recommended that the enforcement agencies in the country (NAFDAC and the Ministry of Health) need to get the producers of 'packaged water' to comply with the national drinking water guidelines. Communities on their part should be educated and enlightened on the ill effects of patronizing fake vendors. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 251 - 258) Key Words; water quality, Coliform counts, faecal coliforms, pure-water, water vending, urban water, bottled water.

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of leaf extracts of Landolphia Owariensis

Abstract: The aqueous, methanol and chloroform extracts of Landolphia owariensis leaves (AELO, MELO & CELO respectively) was investigated for anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities. All the extracts (100mg/kg each) were found to significantly (P inhibit paw edema induced by carrageenan in rats and the nociception induced by Tail immersion in hot water (50.0 ± 1.00C) and acetic acid. The methanol extract produced the highest paw edema inhibition while in thermally induced nociception both the MELO and CELO show high and comparable analgesic activity with acetylsalicylic acid (150mg/kg). However in chemically induced pain (acetic acid) MELO produced the highest and comparable analgesic activity to acetylsalicylic acid (150mg/kg). We therefore conclude, that apart from the folklore uses of L. Owariensis leaves as antimalarial agents, the various extracts of the plant also possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities. Phytochemical analysis showed that the methanollic extract of L. owerensis contain some secondary metabolites namely: alkaloids and some polyphenolic compounds. Also, this extract exhibits some antioxidative activities

Differential Effect of Honey on Selected Variables in Alloxan-Induced and Fructose- Induced Diabetic Rats

Abstract: Honey contains a high concentration of fructose, a monosaccharide, capable of raising blood sugar level after oral ingestion. It is thus a paradox that nutritional experts have advocated its use as a nutrition supplement in patients with diabetes mellitus. It has also been used, over the years, as a sweetener by those who wish to avoid the use of sugar. The effective use of sugar in diabetes may be due to its other constituents, especially the various antioxidants that are abundant in honey. Glycemic effect of honey on alloxaninduced diabetes and with concomitant administration of fructose was studied in male rats of the Wistar strain. Alloxan was injected into the rats through a tail artery and three days later, a confirmation of successful induction of diabetes was made by demonstration of hyperglycemia in the rats. Another group of rats received daily oral ingestion of fructose. At the end of three weeks it was found that daily ingestion of honey for three weeks progressively and effectively reduced blood glucose level in rats with alloxaninduced diabetes. Honey also caused a reduction in hyperglycemia induced by long-term ingestion of fructose, albeit to a lesser degree than its effect on alloxan-induced hyperglycemia. Honey could not reduce blood glucose in controlled rats that received neither alloxan treatment nor fructose ingestion, even though it caused an increase in body weight, irrespective of other substances concomitantly administered to the rats. It is thus apparent that honey may be a useful adjunct in the management of diabetes, while serving as a sweetener, especially if taken in moderate quantities. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 191 - 196) Key Words: Honey, Alloxan-induced diabetes, Fructose-induced diabetes, Rats

An assesment of the health and social economic implications of satchet water n ibadan nigeria: a public health challenge

Abstract: The inadequacy of pipe borne water in Ibadan Metropolis is almost endemic. This inadequacy is both in quantity and quality of the public water supply. As an alternative to the water supply, small scale industrial concerns came up with ‘PURE WATER’: 0.5Litre water in nylon sachets, which are electrically heated, sealed at both ends and widely patronized by both low and middle class Nigerians. The objective of the study was to find out the quality of such pure water. Stratified, simple random sampling procedures were used to select 78 samples from 20 brands of sachet water from important hawkers/vendors. The samples were subjected to physical, chemical and bacteriological analysis. For chemical analysis, Hanna’s 100 spectrophotometer plus chemical reagents were used. The water samples were assessed for coliform and other intestinal bacteria using MKC cowkery broth (MM) and Brilliant Green Bile Broth (BGBB). Multiple tube method was employed. The result showed that the physical parameters were within W.H.O limits for drinking water quality guidelines except for pH which ranged from 6.6 - 9.7. Some chemical parameters were also within the W.H.O guideline values. However; aluminum which concentration ranged from 0.00 — 0.34 mg/l, fluoride concentration ranged from 0.01 — 1.87 mg/I and cyanide concentration ranged from 0.000 —0175 were not. Bacteriological analysis, showed that five (5) or 6.4% of the samples tested fielded bacterial growth. Bacteria produced included: Klebsiella sp., Streptococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The enforcement of the regulation guiding water quality before the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) to comply with the drinking water qualities guideline values as recommended by W.H.O, becomes urgent.

The haematological response of clarias gariepinus to changes in acclimation temperature

Abstract: The effect of different acclimation temperatures on physiological parameters of Clarias gariepinus over a period of eight weeks was assessed. Thirty-two fishes weighing approximately 400.0+5.0g were divided into four groups (A-D) of eight fish each, based on the water temperature to which they were subjected: Group A (29+1 o C) was the control while groups B (23+1 o C), C (35+1 o C) and D (41+1 o C) were the test groups. Haematological and biochemical parameters were considered after eight weeks. The result showed that there was no significant difference (at p<0.05) in the values at 23+1 o C, 35+1 o C and 41+1 o C, except for haematocrit (Ht), haemoglobin (Hb) and total plasma protein (TPP) values, which were significantly different at 23±1 o C and 41±1 o C relative to the control (29±1 o C). The implication of temperature fluctuation of aquatic ecosystem on flora and fauna is discussed in the text.

Toxicity potentials of Cassia fistula fruits as laxative with reference to senna

Abstract: The aqueous extract of the pods of Cassia fistula Linn (Leguminosae - Caesalpinoideae), cultivated in Ile-Ife, Nigeria were investigated for pharmacological and toxicological properties. The in-vitro effect of Cassia fistula infusion on isolated guinea-pig ileum was examined. The acute and sub-chronic toxicity of the infusion of C. fistula and Cassia acutifolia Del. Pod- (Senokot tablet) as the reference drug were also determined. The results obtained for C .fistula infusion when compared with senokot tablet showed that the infusion of Cassia fistula pods possessed very low levels of toxicity, having the LD50 of 6600mg/kg and also without any pathological effects on the organs examined microscopically. It is therefore concluded from the study that C. fistula pod infusion could be safely utilized as laxative drugs and as a substitute for the official Senna.

Some biochemical and haematological effects of black seed (Nigella sativa) oil on T. brucei-infected rats

Abstract: The effect of black seed oil (Nigella sativa oil) on parasitaemia, some serum and liver enzymes as well as some haematological parameters in Trypanosoma brucei-infected rats was investigated. The results show there was low parasitaemia and extension of life span of rats from 12 days of the infected untreated (control) rats to 22 days for the infected black seed oil-treated rats. Results also show significant increases in activities of serum alkaline phosphatase as well as glutamate oxaloacetate and glutamate pyruvate transaminases with decreases in the liver enzyme activities. Protein concentrations show significant decreases in the serum and increases in the liver. There were also significant increases in the haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC) and platelet counts of infected oil-treated rats when compared with the infected untreated. We suggest that black seed oil has trypanocidal properties and probably stimulate the host immune system to control parasite proliferation thereby making it a possible agent for managing African sleeping sickness despite possible gradual damage to host organs as shown by increases in some serum enzymes. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 79 - 85) Key Words; Black seed oil, T. brucei, sleeping sickness, management

Histopathological studies on the toxicity of Ocimum gratissimum leave extract on some organs of rabbit

Abstract: Aqueous extract of leaves of Ocimum gratissimum (OG) at doses of 0.4, 0.8 and 1.6 g/kg was experimentally tested through oral administration twice weekly to rabbits, for four weeks. At the end of the fourth week, the animals were sacrificed after ether anesthesia and transection of the jugular vein. The livers, kidneys and the intestine (jejunum) were removed and fixed In 10% formal saline. Paraffin sections were prepared from these organs and stained with haematoxylin and eosin for histopathological assessment. The extract of OG at all doses showed changes In the intestine which were indicative of Its effects on bowel discharge and mucous secretion. The effect on the kidney was indicative of diuretic activity at all the tested doses. In the liver the extract showed higher necrotic changes at a low dose (0.4g/kg’). The laxative and hepatoprotective potentials of aqueous extract of leaves of Ocimum gratissimum have been discussed.

Pharmacological evidences for antiamnesic potentials of Phyllanthus amarus in mice

Abstract: Phyllanhus amarus (PAs) is commonly known as Bhumi amla and is traditionally used since centuries in ayurveda. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of PAs on cognitive functions and brain cholinesterase activity in mice. PAs (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) produced a dose- dependent improvement in memory scores of young and older mice. PAs also reversed successfully the amnesia induced by scopolamine (0.4 mg/kg, i.p.) and diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.). Interestingly, brain cholinesterase activity was also reduced. The underlying mechanism of action for the observed nootropic effect may be attributed to pro-cholinergic activity exhibited by PAs in the present study. Therefore, it would be worthwhile to explore the therapeutic potential of PAs in the management of patients with cognitive disorders. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 10: 165 - 173

Toxic stress of lead on Clarias Gariepinus (African catfish)fingerlings

Abstract: The toxic stress of lead on fish was tested employing a 96-hour bioassay test. The experimental fish used were Clarias gariepinus fingerlings. Lead in the form of lead chloride was used to prepare the stock solution. The concentrations of lead used for the experiment were 0, 1.8, 3.2, and 5.6, and10.0mg/l. The lethal concentration (LC50) was estimated using the logarithmic method and was found to be 0.6, 0.58 and 0.62mg/l for replicates1, 2 and 3 respectively.

Maternal Mortality in a Nigerian Maternity Hospital

Abstract: Despite recent focus on maternal mortality in Nigeria, its rates remain unacceptably high in Nigeria. A retrospective case-control study was carried out at Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Ibadan between January 2003 and December 2004. This was to determine the maternal mortality ratio in a secondary health facility, to identify the causes of death and to assess factors associated with these deaths. The case files of all maternal deaths that occurred in the hospital during the two years period were retrieved and data extracted into a study proforma. Each maternal death was matched with three controls that delivered the same day and live around the same area of Ibadan. Bivariate analysis of the data was done with the cases and controls compared in relation to various risk factors. There were 8,724 lives births and 84 maternal deaths giving a MMR of 963/100,000 live births. The main causes of the death were haemorrhage 20 (23.8%) sepsis 20 (23.8%) and eclampsia 14(16.7%). Nine women (10.7%) died while pregnant, 11 (13.1%) died in labour, 52 (61.7%) died after delivery while 12 (14.3%) died from post-abortal complications. Most of the deaths due to post-partum heamorrhage (66.7%) were seen in mothers over the age of 29 years while 64.2% of deaths due to eclampsia were in women under the age of 25 years due to eclampsia occurred in nulliparous women and PPH was responsible for deaths in more women as their parity increased from two. From bivariate analysis, factors significantly associated with maternal death included unbooked status {Odd’s ratio OR=12.89 (95%C.I. _ 6.9 – 24.1) p 5) {OR=4.17 (95% C.I. – 1.53-11.45) p 18 hours) {OR=2.86, (95% C.I. 1.5 – 5.9) p Key words : Maternal mortality, case-control study, maternal death, antenatal care, emergency obstetric care