Emerging Frontiers in Translational Biomedicine and Health Sciences
Emerging Frontiers in Translational Biomedicine and Health Sciences (EFTBHS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal committed to accelerating the translation of biomedical discoveries into real-world health solutions. Published by the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka (Nigeria), the journal bridges basic science, clinical research, and public health to promote impactful, interdisciplinary scholarship. EFTBHS welcomes original research, systematic and narrative reviews, short communications, perspectives, and policy analyses that advance understanding across all domains of translational and biomedical science. Its focus spans molecular biology, precision medicine, bioinformatics, global and community health, and emerging innovations such as artificial intelligence in health sciences. By fostering collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, EFTBHS aims to strengthen evidence-based practice and support the global exchange of scientific knowledge for improved population health. All articles are published under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0) , ensuring free and perpetual access to readers worldwide.
Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
All content published in Emerging Frontiers in Translational Biomedicine and Health Sciences (EFTBHS) is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution–NonCommercial–ShareAlike 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0). This license allows others to remix, adapt, and build upon the work non-commercially, as long as they: Give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the journal. Provide a link to the license. Indicate if changes were made. Distribute their contributions under the same license as the original. Under this license, users may not use the material for commercial purposes. Authors retain copyright and grant the journal the right of first publication. Authors may enter into separate, non-exclusive agreements for non-commercial distribution (e.g., in institutional repositories or course materials) with acknowledgment of the initial publication in EFTBHS. For details, visit the official Creative Commons page: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/ Summary of permissions under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0: Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format. Adapt — remix, transform, and build upon the material. Attribution required — must credit author(s) and journal. NonCommercial — no commercial use permitted. ShareAlike — derivative works must use the same license.
Knowledge and Perception of Puerperal Psychosis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Abraka, Nigeria
Background: Puerperal psychosis is a rare but life-threatening postpartum psychiatric emergency that poses substantial risks to both mothers and their infants if not recognized and managed promptly. This study assessed the knowledge and perceptions of puerperal psychosis among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 pregnant women attending selected antenatal clinics in Abraka, Delta State, between January and March 2025. Participants were selected using simple random sampling from antenatal clinic registers. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire that was validated through expert review and demonstrated good internal consistency in a pilot study. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participants' characteristics and responses, while chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were employed to identify factors associated with adequate knowledge. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Although 72.0% of respondents had previously heard of puerperal psychosis, only 48.0% demonstrated adequate knowledge of the condition (knowledge score ≥70%). Educational attainment was significantly associated with knowledge level (χ²(3) = 12.4, p = 0.006). After adjusting for potential confounders, women with tertiary education were more than twice as likely to possess adequate knowledge compared with those without formal education. In addition, 60.0% of participants expressed supportive attitudes toward women affected by puerperal psychosis, although misconceptions persisted, with some respondents attributing the condition to spiritual causes. Conclusion: While general awareness of puerperal psychosis among pregnant women in Abraka was relatively high, comprehensive knowledge of the disorder remained inadequate. Educational attainment was an independent predictor of adequate knowledge. Incorporating structured maternal mental health education into routine antenatal care may enhance early recognition, reduce stigma, and encourage timely access to appropriate healthcare services, thereby improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Emerging Frontiers in Translational Biomedicine and Health Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Morphometric Assessment of the Clivus using Computed Tomography in Adult Nigerians Visiting a Private Health Care Facility in Delta State
Background: The management of clival pathologies requires accurate morphometric assessment of the clivus to facilitate preoperative planning and inform the design of population-specific implants. The clival index provides valuable insight into clival morphology, an important parameter in skull base surgery. Clival morphometry is also useful in the forensic identification of unknown skeletal remains. This study aimed to evaluate the dimensions of the clivus and determine their variations according to age and sex in a Nigerian population. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study evaluated clival dimensions using 230 cranial computed tomography (CT) images from 115 males and 115 females aged 20–80 years, retrieved from the radiological database of a private hospital in Delta State, Nigeria. Access to the database was granted following approval by a University's Ethics Committee. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics), version 27. The independent-samples t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to compare mean values between sex and age groups, respectively. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to assess the relationships between variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Clival length and width exhibited significant sexual dimorphism, with males demonstrating larger dimensions than females (p < 0.05). In contrast, age was not significantly correlated with either clival length or width. A strong positive correlation was observed between clival length and width (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study provides population-specific baseline morphometric data that may support preoperative planning for craniovertebral junction (CVJ) procedures and contribute to the development of clival implants and fixation devices tailored to the population of Delta State, Nigeria. The observed sexual dimorphism also suggests that clival morphometry may serve as a useful adjunct skeletal marker for forensic sex estimation.
Susceptibility of Adult Anopheles gambiae to Cymbopogon citratus and Ocimum gratissimum Essential Oils Using Contact and Fumigant Methods
Background: The rise in resistance of Anopheles gambiae resistance to recommended insecticides necessitates effective bioactive alternatives in their control. Mosquitocidal activities of the essential oils of Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) and Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaf), in single and combined forms, were evaluated using fumigant and contact exposure techniques. Time-mortality was recorded, and Lethal Times (LT) computed for 50% using probit analysis. Methods: Adult Anopheles gambiaemosquitoes were exposed to 1 %, 2 %, 3 %, 4 %, and 5 % concentrations of C. citratus and O. gratissimum essential oils, in single and combined trials adopting standard protocols by World Health Organization (WHO). Results: Best concentration (5%) of C. citrates demonstrated complete mortality (100% for contact and 78% for fumigant), whereas O. gratissimum at 5% exhibited 93% mortality for contact and 67% for fumigant compared to other concentrations for contact and fumigant exposures (p< 0.05). Notably, the combined oils produced complete mortality at all exposure periods (100%), and concentrations, indicating enhance deffectness over the single dose of oils. Conclusion: It is imperative to adopt the combined oils in vector management trials for adults, following that the findings of this study align with emerging evidence supporting multi-component botanical mixtures to enhance insecticidal efficacy through complementary chemical interactions. Further studies aimed at formulation development are warranted.
In Vitro Antioxidant Activities and In Vivo Modulation of Testicular Oxidative Stress Markers by Verminoside and Specioside Isolated from Spathodea campanulata
Background: Lead exposure remains a major public health concern, with oxidative stress being a principal mechanism underlying its reproductive toxicity. Due to adverse effects associated with conventional chelation therapy, plant-derived antioxidants are increasingly explored as safer alternatives. Verminoside and specioside, iridoid glycosides isolated from Spathodea campanulata, possess antioxidant properties that may protect against lead-induced oxidative damage. Methods: The in vitro antioxidant activities of verminoside and specioside were evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Oxidative stress markers including malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), nitric oxide (NO), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed in testicular tissue homogenates following lead exposure. Results: Verminoside and specioside demonstrated significant concentration-dependent antioxidant activity in DPPH and FRAP assays. The FRAP EC50 values were 39.36±4.09 µg/ml, 48.50±8.98 µg/ml and 34.05±4.94 µg/ml for specioside, verminoside and ascorbic acid respectively, while the DPPH IC50 values were 59.67±0.58 µg/ml, 61.50±0.50 µg/ml and 50.00±0.00 µg/ml for specioside, verminoside and ascorbic acid respectively. Both compounds significantly (p< 0.05) reduced lipid peroxidation and nitrosative stress, while significantly (p< 0.05) restoring antioxidant enzyme activities and non-enzymatic antioxidant levels in testicular tissues. Conclusion: Verminoside and specioside exhibit strongin vitro antioxidant activity and demonstrate protective effects against lead-induced oxidative stress in vivo.
Antipsychotic-like Effects of Jobelyn® in Ketamine-induced Psychosis in Mice
Background: Jobelyn® (JB) is a polyherbal formulation with proven benefits on psychosis, a psychiatric disorder, validated in dopamine-agonist models. However, its effect in ketamine, a glutamate antagonist, is linked to schizophrenia's pathology due to N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor hypofunction, which remains largely unknown. Hence, this study investigates the antipsychotic effectsof JB in ketamine-induced mouse models. Methods: Antipsychotic activity of Jobelyn®(JB) (5, 10, and 50 mg/kg, p.o.) was assessed based on the inhibition of stereotyped behaviour induced by ketamine and ketamine-induced hyperactivity in mice. Ketamine-enhanced immobility in forced swim test (FST) and drug-induced ptosis and catalepsy in mice were also used to further evaluate JB's antipsychotic properties and its potential to cause extrapyramidal side effects. Results: JB (5, 10, and 50 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly (p<0.05) inhibited stereotypy induced by apomorphine (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or ketamine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and ketamine-induced hyperactivity. Furthermore, JB significantly (p<0.05) reduced the ketamine-induced enhancementofimmobility (30 mg/kg, i.p.) in mice, suggesting antipsychotic activity. JB also dose-independently depleted the monoamine as indexed by the ptosis paradigm. However, JB (5, 10, and 50 mg/kg, p.o.) did not cause cataleptic behaviour, as it failed to alter the duration of stay of the animals on the inclined plane. Conclusion: This study provides valuable evidence that JB contains biologically active constituent with antipsychotic properties. The behavioural findings suggest possible modulation of dopaminergic and glutamatergic pathways, thus justifying its ethnomedicinal claims in the management of psychotic disorders.
Determinants of Nursing Students' Attitudes towards Clinical Posting at Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
Background: Clinical posting is a fundamental component of nursing education, providing students with opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge and develop essential clinical competencies. However, students’ attitudes toward clinical posting may be influenced by institutional, individual, and environmental factors. This study examined the determinants of nursing students’ attitudes towards clinical posting at Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria, using Social Influence Theory as a conceptual framework. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among nursing students in the Department of Nursing Science, Delta State University, Abraka. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 156 nursing students in 300–500 levels who had participated in at least two clinical postings. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests in SPSS version 23. Results: Findings revealed that 83.3% of respondents demonstrated positive attitudes towards clinical posting, acknowledging its importance in skill acquisition and professional development. Institutional factors such as staff behaviour, availability of resources, adequate supervision, and quality of facilities significantly influenced students’ attitudes. Chi-square analysis showed statistically significant relationships between institutional factors (χ² = 4.00, p = 0.045), individual factors (χ² = 4.50, p = 0.033), environmental factors (χ² = 3.91, p = 0.048), and students’ attitudes towards clinical posting. Conclusion: Nursing students generally exhibited positive attitudes towards clinical posting. Institutional, individual, and environmental factors significantly influenced these attitudes. Strengthening clinical supervision, improving learning environments, and promoting supportive staff–student interactions may enhance students’ clinical learning experiences and professional development.
Knowledge, Awareness and Monitoring Behaviour of Health Numbers among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Health Facility in Delta State, Nigeria
Background: A key component of self-care among healthcare workers is the monitoring of “health numbers,” which include indicators such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, body mass index, and stress-related parameters. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, awareness, and monitoring behaviour of health numbers among healthcare workers in a tertiary health facility. Methods: It was analytical cross-sectional study carried out among 244 healthcare workers in a tertiary health facility in Delta State using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Collected data were entered and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. Descriptive statistics was used to present continuous and categorical variables, while for inferential statistics, level of significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean (± S.D) age of respondents was 31.52 (± 8.12) years. Overall, 212 (86.9%) had a good knowledge of health numbers. About three-quarter, 190 (77.9%) were aware of their blood pressure reading; 127 (52.0%) of their body mass index reading; 95 (38.9%) of their blood sugar level reading; and 59 (24.2%) of their cholesterol level. Age was significantly associated with awareness of personal numbers (p<0.043); while age (p<0.0.048) and years of working experience (p<0.001) was significantly associated with monitoring of personal health numbers. Conclusion: This study showed that healthcare workers had a good knowledge of health numbers; however awareness and monitoring of their personal health numbers were generally poor. Blood pressure was the most commonly known and monitored health number. Age and years of experience were significantly associated with monitoring behaviour. The findings highlight a gap between knowledge and practice, emphasizing the need for regular workplace health screening and health promotion programmes among healthcare workers.
Prenatal Paroxetine Exposure Alters Oxidative, Inflammatory, Neurobehavioural, and Cholinergic Markers in the Hippocampus of Male and Female Mice Offspring in a Depression Model
Background: Depression is a debilitating mental disorder that is impairs behavioural abilities due to its symptomatic expression but much more severe in gestational period due to its impact on maternal and child’s health. The study focused on the impacts of paroxetine and stress on offspring health exploring its neurobehavioural across age trajectories of infancy, adolescent and adulthood while various oxidative, inflammatory and neurochemical enzymes biomarkers were assayed for in the brain hippocampal region. Materials and Methods: Eighty female Swiss mice (25-30g) were induced with prenatal depression using chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in pregnant Swiss dams at gestation days (GD) 13 to 19. Group 1 which served as control, consisted offspring of non-CUMS-treated dams, and received saline (2 mL/kg,p.o). Groups 2 and 3 include offspring of non-CUMS-treated dams and received paroxetine (2.5mg/kg and 5mg/kg, p.o) from GDs 13-19. Group 4 consist of offspring of CUMS-exposed dams and served as CUMS control. Groups 5 and 6 consist of offspring of CUMS-exposed dams, treated with paroxetine (2.5 and 5 mg/kg, p.o) from GD 13-19. Offspring (pups: males and females) were weaned at postnatal day (PND) 21-22 and randomly assigned into 6 groups (n=10) above. Results: Key findings showed that paroxetine causes reduced brain weight especially in female than male with an increase correct alternation activities in infancy and adulthood than in adolescent. It also reduces oxidative activities when compared to control but only have little effect in balancing oxidant in severe reversal conditions, while also potentiating neurochemical enzyme activity in female than in male. Paroxetine showed a marked reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines activities in male and female mice offspring. Conclusion: Paroxetine shows clinical importance in the management of gestational depression but shows altering effects in neuronal weight and enzymes, oxidation and concentration in release of cytokines in the hippocampal brain region.
Assessing the Disconnect Between Cervical Cancer Knowledge and Perceived Willingness of Screening among Health Science Students in a Nigerian University
Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern in Nigeria despite being largely preventable through human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and regular cervical screening. Healthcare-related students are expected to possess adequate knowledge that may influence preventive health behaviors. This study assessed the knowledge and perceived willingness toward cervical cancer screening and prevention among female students in the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 female students selected from five departments within the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.86). Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using SPSS version 25, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The majority of respondents demonstrated good knowledge of cervical cancer and its screening methods (97.3%). However, perceived willingness toward cervical cancer screening was suboptimal, with only 37.2% agreeing that screening is necessary for all female students. Important misconceptions were identified, as 69.4% believed that screening does not prevent cervical cancer, while 53.9% perceived that women in monogamous relationships do not require screening. There was no statistically significant association between knowledge level and perceived willingness toward cervical cancer screening (χ², p = 0.913). Conclusion: Although knowledge of cervical cancer screening was high among respondents, this did not translate into a positive perception of the need for screening. Persistent misconceptions regarding screening efficacy and perceived risk among women in monogamous relationships may hinder uptake of preventive services. Targeted health promotion interventions addressing psychosocial barriers and misconceptions are recommended to improve cervical cancer screening acceptance among female university students.
Hepatoprotective Effects of Methanolic Salvia officinalis Leaf Extract against Potassium Cyanide-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Male Wistar Rats
Background: Cyanide poisoning is a major cause of oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity in humans and animals, while effective and affordable therapeutic options remain limited. Salvia officinalis (common sage) is a medicinal plant rich in antioxidant phytochemicals with reported hepatoprotective properties. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of methanolic Salvia officinalis leaf extract against potassium cyanide-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats, using sodium thiosulphate as the reference antidote. Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 6): control, potassium cyanide (7 mg/kg), S. officinalis extract (500 mg/kg), extract plus potassium cyanide, and sodium thiosulphate (600 mg/kg) plus potassium cyanide. Treatments were administered orally for 14 days. Serum liver function biomarkers (AST, ALT, GGT, ALP, total protein, and total bilirubin) and hepatic oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) were determined using standard spectrophotometric methods. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test. Results: Potassium cyanide significantly (p < 0.05) elevated serum AST, ALT, GGT, ALP, total bilirubin, and hepatic malondialdehyde while significantly reducing total protein, reduced glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities. Co-administration of S. officinalis extract significantly ameliorated these alterations, restoring liver function and antioxidant status toward normal values. The protective effects were comparable to those of sodium thiosulphate. Conclusion: Methanolic Salvia officinalis leaf extract exhibited significant hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities against potassium cyanide-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats, suggesting its potential as an affordable natural therapeutic agent. Further studies should investigate its histopathological effects, molecular mechanisms, and long-term safety.
Collaborative Impact of Diabetes Education by International Diabetes Federation and National Health Systems on Prevalence of Diabetes Amongst the Indigenous People of Africa
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is becoming a serious health problem in Africa, affecting about 24 million adults, with more than half of them undiagnosed. Indigenous communities are affected the most because of poverty, poor healthcare, and inequality. This narrative review examines how diabetes education from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and national health systems is helping to combat this growing concern among indigenous Africans. Methods: A total of 39 relevant articles were used for this review covering up to 2025, using search engines and databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Main content: The IDF has set up various education programs, like the IDF School of Diabetes and other initiatives, often working with host governments, while national health systems have used community-based approaches, such as training health workers, running radio campaigns, and school programs. These efforts have helped improve diabetes control with self-care. Although, problems like lack of funding, cultural differences, weak health monitoring, and poor infrastructure still limit the impact of these education programs. Conclusion: This review highlights how collaborative diabetes education initiatives by the IDF and national health systems have improved diabetes awareness and control among indigenous Africans.
Copyright (c) 2025 Emerging Frontiers in Translational Biomedicine and Health Sciences https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Co-administration of N-acetylcysteine and Zinc Sulfate Prevents Bonny Light Crude Oil-induced Neurobehavioral Alterations in Mice via Modulation of Serotonergic / Glutamatergic Signaling
Background: The possibility of preventing the neurotoxicity brought on by exposure to bonny light crude oil (BLCO) by co-administering N-acetylcysteine and ZnSO4 is still unknown. Therefore, this study looked at how N-acetylcysteine and ZnSO4 exposure together could protect against the neurotoxicity caused by bonny light crude oil. Methods: Forty male mice were randomly assign to 5 groups (n=10). Group 3 to 5 were pretreated with NAC (20 mg/kg, p.o.), ZnSO4 (20 mg/kg, p.o.) and NAC+ZnSO4, respectively for 14 days followed by BLCO (2ml in 20g feed) from day 15 to day 28. Group 1, served as normal control and received normal saline (1ml/kg) and normal diet throughout the duration of the study while group 2 served as negative control and was fed BLCO (2ml in 20g feed) after 14 days of receiving normal saline. Between days 27 and 29, tests to measure locomotor activity, the anti-depressive and anxiolytic effects of NAC and/or ZnSO4 on BLCO-induced neurobehavioral derangement were assessed, and then animals were euthanized. Results: Our findings demonstrated that administering ZnSO4 and/or NAC before BLCO exposure significantly increased the time spent in open-arm on the EPM test, increased the time spent in the light chamber on the LDB test, and decreased immobility time on the FST, thereby reducing the behavioral deficit caused by BLCO. By pretreating with NAC and/or ZnSO4, neurochemicals such as glutamate, serotonin, noradrenaline, as well as acetylcholinesterase activity, were regulated. Conclusion: N-acetylcysteine and Zinc Sulfate co-administration protects mice from Bonny Light crude oil-induced neurobehavioral changes through modifying serotonergic/glutamatergic transmission.
Haematoprotective Effects of Khaya Senegalensis Stem Bark Extract in a Dextran Sulphate Sodium Induced Rat Model of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Background: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a long-lasting disease of the gastrointestinal tract that continues to increase in prevalence around the world. Conventional treatments such as sulfasalazine are problematic in regions where resources are scarce, such as Nigeria, where they experience haematological toxicity, which includes anaemia. In this study, the haematoprotective effect of a traditional medicine, Khaya senegalensis, was investigated to mitigate blood-related pathological changes in a DSS-induced rat model of IBD. Materials and Methods: Rats were induced with an IBD model with the use of Dextran sulphate Sodium (DSS). The rats were further distributed into 6 groups: a normal control, an untreated DSS group, 2 groups treated with Khaya senegalensis (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg), a sulfasalazine group (500 mg/kg), and a combination group (250 mg/kg sulfasalazine + 100 mg/kg Khaya senegalensis). Hydro-ethanol extract was orally given, and haematological parameters were then determined. Results: The experiment established that the 200 mg/kg treatment with Khaya senegalensis lowered the white blood cell count significantly as compared to the untreated DSS group (p<0.05). The doses of 200 mg/kg produced substantial adverse alterations in counts of granulocytes, respectively, with mid-sized cells responding to doses in a dose-dependent manner. Parameters of platelets, such as the platelet count, platelet crit (PCT), and platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR), also increased significantly in all the treatment groups (p<0.001 to p<0.01). There were no substantial changes in the level of red blood cells and other parameters. Conclusion: These results suggest that the hydro-ethanol extract of Khaya senegalensis is haematoprotective in the DSS-induced rat model of colitis. The favourable effect of the extract on the main haematological indicators poses the hypothesis about its potential as a natural adjuvant to the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Health Practices by Primary Caregivers on Clinical Cases of Malaria among Under-Five Children in Rural Health Facilities in Delta State, Nigeria
Background: Malaria remains a major public health threat for children under five in Nigeria. This study evaluated the health practices of primary caregivers in managing clinical malaria among under-five children in Delta State, with emphasis on prevention strategies, home-based treatment, and healthcare‑seeking behaviours. Methods: A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted from June 2023 to May 2024 in three rural secondary hospitals representing Delta State’s senatorial districts. A total of 633 primary caregivers of under‑five children presenting with fever or malaria‑like symptoms were consecutively recruited. Malaria diagnosis was performed using both Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and microscopy. Data on preventive practices, home management, and care‑seeking timing were collected using a validated structured questionnaire. Associations were examined using chi‑square analysis and multivariable logistic regression. Results: The overall malaria prevalence was high: 71.1% by RDT and 66.3% by microscopy. Children aged 13–36 months were the most affected group. Consistent use of insecticide‑treated nets (ITNs) showed a significant protective effect against malaria infection (Adjusted OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.15–0.45, p < 0.001). Use of herbal remedies showed no statistically significant association with malaria status (Adjusted OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.62–1.34, p = 0.67). Although delayed care‑seeking beyond three days was common, it was not independently associated with malaria positivity in adjusted models. Conclusion: There is a critical need for targeted public health interventions that enhance ITN utilization, promote timely access to healthcare, and reduce over‑reliance on unproven home remedies. Improved caregiver education and community‑focused malaria control strategies are essential to reducing the disease burden among under‑five children in rural Delta State. Keywords: Caregiver practices; Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs); Herbal remedies; Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT); Microscopy; Malaria prevalence; Public health intervention; Healthcare-seeking behaviour.
Ethanol Extract of Spathodea Campanulata and Its Component Ellagic Acid Modulate Β-haematin Metabolism, Mitochondrial Membrane Potential, and Calcium Homeostasis in Plasmodium Falciparum
Background: Malaria remains a global health threat, with increasing resistance to frontline drugs driving the search for novel therapies. Spathode acampanulata is traditionally used in African medicine against malaria, yet its molecular mechanisms are not fully defined. This study assessed the ethanol extract of S. campanulata leaves and its phytoconstituent ellagic acid for their ability to modulate β-haematin metabolism, calcium homeostasis, and mitochondrial membrane potential in Plasmodium falciparum. Materials and Methods: Ellagic acid was isolated by preparative HPLC and confirmed using analytical HPLC. Hemolytic activity was evaluated in human O⁺ erythrocytes, while β-haematin inhibition, calcium homeostasis, and mitochondrial potential disruption were measured in P. falciparum (3D7 strain) using standard assays, data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 and one-way ANOVA with significance at p < 0.05. Results: The ethanol extract (IC₅₀ = 4.80 ± 0.22 µg/mL) and ellagic acid (3.70 ± 0.80 µg/mL) exhibited low hemolytic activity relative to chloroquine (3.60 ± 0.82 µg/mL). The extract demonstrated superior β-haematin inhibition (0.35 ± 0.12 µg/mL) compared to ellagic acid (1.30 ± 1.00 µg/mL), whereas ellagic acid strongly disrupted mitochondrial potential (0.54 ± 0.21 µg/mL) and calcium signaling. Conclusion: HPLC analysis confirmed ellagic acid content at 2.5 % w/w of crude extract. These findings suggest complementary mechanisms between extract and ellagic acid, supporting their potential as scaffolds for antimalarial drug development.
Ameliorative Effects of D-Ribose-L-Cysteine on Hematological Indices and Metabolic Intermediates in Diabetic Male Wistar Rats
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and progressive β-cell dysfunction. Hematological parameters and metabolic intermediates often reflect systemic inflammation, immune competence, mitochondrial activity, and redox balance, all of which are perturbed in diabetes. This study evaluated the effects of D-ribose-L-cysteine (DRLC), a glutathione precursor, on hematological indices and selected intermediates of energy metabolism in male Wistar rats exposed to a High-Fat Diet (HFD) and Streptozotocin (STZ) (HFD+STZ). Methods: Animals were randomly divided into control, HFD+STZ, HFD+STZ+DRLC (150 and 300 mg/kg), and HFD+STZ+metformin (100 mg/kg) groups. Treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Hematological indices (White Blood Cells (WBC), Lymphocytes (LYM), Hemoglobin (Hb), Red Blood Cells (RBCs), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC), and metabolic intermediates (pyruvate, succinate, lactate) together with Malate Dehydrogenase (MDH) activity were assessed. Results: The HFD+STZ group developed significant leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, anemia, elevated MCV, reduced pyruvate and succinate, increased lactate levels, and altered MDH activity compared to controls (p<0.05). DRLC administration significantly reversed these alterations in a dose-dependent manner, comparable to metformin. DRLC improved red blood cell integrity, enhanced hemoglobin levels, normalized energy metabolites, and modulated MDH activity, suggesting potent antioxidant and hemato-protective actions mediated through glutathione - dependent pathways. Conclusion: DRLC effectively ameliorated hematological and mitochondrial derangements in diabetic rats, highlighting its therapeutic potential in mitigating diabetes-associated complications. Keywords: D-Ribose-L-Cysteine, Hematological Indices, Energy Metabolism Intermediates, Streptozotocin -Induced Diabetes, High-Fat Diet
Impact of Occupational Exposure to Metallic Welding Fumes and Smoking on Reno-Hepatocellular Homeostasis in Relation to Serum Copper Level
Background: The study examined the effect of occupational exposure to metallic welding fumes and smoking on reno-hepatocellular homeostasis in relation to serum copper levels of welders. Methods: Forty (40) subjects were recruited, comprising 10 welders who were smokers, 10 welder non-smokers, 10 non-welders that are smokers and 10 non-welders who were non-smokers. Blood samples were collected to estimate biochemical assays of liver and kidney parameters. The collected data were expressed in mean±SEM, and a one-way ANOVA was used for comparison between means. Results: Findings revealed a significant increase (p<0.05) in the levels of serum copper of welders compared with the control group. Urea levels were significantly increased (p<0.05) in welders who were smokers, whereas, levels of serum creatinine showed a non-significant decrease in welders who were smokers compared with the control group, and other experimental groups. For the liver function assays, the activities of Aspartate aminotransferase were not significantly different from those of the control. Activities of Alanine aminotransferase were significantly increased (p<0.05) in non-welders that were smokers compared to those of the control. Remarkably, ALP activities were significantly decreased (p<0.05) in all experimental groups compared to control levels, the observed reduction was least in welders that are non-smokers. Total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels were non-significantly increased. The level of total protein was significantly reduced (p<0.05) in smokers that were non-welders compared with the control group. Conclusion: Exposure to fume particles from metallic welding, particularly copper, affected kidney function parameter values by significantly increasing urea levels and reducing creatinine levels in smoking welders. In summary, this study suggests that changes in serum copper levels among smoker welders may be associated with the severity of changes in kidney and liver functional status following exposure to metallic fumes with possible risk of hepatic dysfunction over time, especially when smoking is involved.
Hematological and Biochemical Evaluation of Acute and Sub-acute Oral Toxicity of Azanza garckeana Hydroethanolic Fruit Extract in Male Wistar Rats
Background: Azanza garckeana is a widely used African medicinal plant, particularly for reproductive health and various ailments. Despite its ethnomedicinal applications and pharmacological evidence, comprehensive data on the safety of its hydroethanolic fruit extract remain limited. This study evaluated the acute and sub-acute (15 and 30 days) oral toxicity of hydroethanolic fruit extract of Azanza garckeana (AZG) in male Wistar rats, focusing on hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress markers. Methods: Acute toxicity was assessed using Lorke's method. For sub-acute studies, rats received daily oral doses of hydroethanolic fruit extract of Azanza garckeana (200, 400, or 800 mg/kg) or distilled water for 15 or 30 days (n = 5/group). Body weight, food/fluid intake, hematology, serum biochemistry, and tissue oxidative stress markers were evaluated. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post-hoc test (p<0.05). Results: No mortality or overt toxicity was observed. The oral LD50 was estimated to be >5000 mg/kg, indicating low acute toxicity. At 15 days, minor changes included decreased platelet distribution width (all doses) and mean platelet volume (800 mg/kg), increased HDL-cholesterol (800 mg/kg), reduced blood urea nitrogen (all doses), and enhanced antioxidant markers (e.g., glutathione and glutathione peroxidase) in liver, kidney, and heart, with no evidence of organ damage. After 30 days, changes included improved lipid profile (decreased total/LDL-cholesterol, increased HDL), mild hematological modulations (e.g., decreased red cell distribution width), reduced food intake (400–800 mg/kg) without weight loss, and sustained catalase elevation in heart (800 mg/kg). No hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity was observed. Conclusion: AZG exhibited no significant toxicity at doses up to 800 mg/kg/day for 30 days. The no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) under the present experimental conditions is 800mg/kg/day. These findings support its relative safety, with observed changes suggesting no adverse effects but potential hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and hematological modulations.
The Role of Pharmacy and Pharmacology in Hospital Management and Healthcare Administration: A Mini Review
Background: Pharmacy and pharmacology are integral to modern healthcare systems, influencing clinical outcomes, patient safety, medicines management, and institutional efficiency. Their roles extend beyond traditional functions, contributing significantly to hospital administration, policy development, and rational pharmacotherapy. Despite this evolving scope, the strategic importance of these disciplines in healthcare management remains underemphasized, particularly in developing health systems. Methods: This mini-review is based on secondary data obtained from peer-reviewed literature accessed through databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and HINARI. Relevant studies addressing pharmacy practice, pharmacology, healthcare administration, and interprofessional collaboration were critically evaluated. Key Findings: Evidence indicates that pharmacy practice has transitioned from a product-centered model to a patient-oriented clinical role involving medicines management, pharmacovigilance, patient counselling, and medication therapy management. Pharmacology contributes through drug development, rational therapeutics, safety evaluation, and mechanistic insights that inform clinical decision-making. Both disciplines play essential roles in optimizing healthcare delivery, resource utilization, and patient safety frameworks. Conclusion: The participation of pharmacy and pharmacology plays a critical role in strengthening healthcare systems through improved medicines management, patient safety, and rational pharmacotherapy. Keywords: Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Healthcare Administration, Hospital Management, Patient Safety