Student's Journal of Health Research Africa
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AN IN VITRO EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON THE ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF SUTHERLANDIA FRUTESCENS ON PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA.: Antimicrobial Activity of Sutherlandia frutescens on Pseudomonas aeruginosa
No full textBackground
The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections has prompted interest in medicinal plants such as Sutherlandia frutescens, traditionally used in Southern African medicine. Despite some evidence of antimicrobial properties, its efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa remains unclear.
Aim: The study evaluates the antimicrobial activity of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts against P. aeruginosa, a multidrug-resistant nosocomial pathogen.
Methods
Aqueous and ethanol extracts of S. frutescens were prepared and tested using the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay and broth microdilution for Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) determination.
Results
The aqueous extract of S. frutescens exhibited no inhibitory activity against P. aeruginosa. The ethanol extract displayed a MIC value of 1.56 mg/mL; however, this finding was inconclusive, as the ethanol control demonstrated equivalent inhibitory activity at the same concentration. Statistical analysis of the zones of inhibition revealed no significant difference between the ethanol extract and the ethanol control (p = 0.1315).
Conclusion
The study indicates that S. frutescens extracts possess negligible intrinsic antimicrobial activity against P. aeruginosa, lessening their potential as a standalone therapeutic option.
Recommendation
Future investigations should focus on evaluating synergistic interactions with conventional antibiotics or isolating specific bioactive compounds to enhance efficacy
Topographic anatomy of the thyroid gland and recurrent laryngeal nerve in cadavers: A descriptive cross-sectional cadaveric study with surgical relevance.
Get PDFBackground:Injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is a significant complication of thyroid surgery. Due to its variable anatomical course and relationship with the thyroid gland and inferior thyroid artery, thorough anatomical understanding is essential to minimize surgical risk.
Objective:
To evaluate the anatomical variations of the RLN about the thyroid gland and inferior thyroid artery in adult cadavers, with emphasis on surgical relevance.
Methods:
A descriptive study was performed on 20 formalin-fixed adult cadavers (40 heminecks). Bilateral dissections were conducted to assess the RLN's position (in or outside the tracheoesophageal groove), its relationship with the inferior thyroid artery, extra laryngeal branching, and laryngeal entry level. Observations were recorded and analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
The RLN was located within the tracheoesophageal groove in 85% of heminecks. It lay posterior to the inferior thyroid artery in 57.5%, anterior in 25%, and between its branches in 17.5%. Extra laryngeal branching was observed in 12.5%, more often on the right. In 10% of cases, the nerve entered the larynx at a higher-than-usual level. Asymmetry between the right and left sides occurred in 20% of cadavers. No statistically significant side differences were noted (p > 0.05).
Conclusion:
The recurrent laryngeal nerve exhibits notable anatomical variations that hold significant surgical relevance. Awareness of these variations is critical for preventing nerve injury during thyroidectomy.
Recommendations:
Surgeons should carefully identify the RLN during dissection, avoid blind ligation near the inferior thyroid artery, use intraoperative nerve monitoring, when possible, integrate cadaveric training in surgical education, and consider preoperative imaging for detecting anatomical variations
THE ROLE OF ULTRASOUND AND MRI IN DIAGNOSING FETAL ANOMALIES: A CROSS-SECTIONAL COMPARATIVE STUDY.
Get PDFBackgroundPrenatal detection of fetal anomalies is critical for early diagnosis, parental counseling, and clinical management. While ultrasound (USG) is the first-line imaging modality, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is increasingly utilized as a complementary tool, especially in complex or ambiguous cases.
ObjectivesTo compare the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting fetal anomalies and evaluate the concordance of each modality with final postnatal or autopsy-confirmed diagnoses.
MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 50 pregnant women with suspected fetal anomalies. All participants underwent detailed ultrasound and fetal MRI between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation. Imaging findings were independently evaluated by experienced radiologists. The final diagnosis was established through postnatal examination or autopsy. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and inter-observer agreement (Kappa statistics) were computed for each modality.
ResultsThe mean maternal age was 26.4 ± 4.2 years, and the mean gestational age at imaging was 28.1 ± 2.6 weeks. MRI detected 45 of 50 confirmed anomalies, demonstrating higher sensitivity (90.0%), specificity (95.6%), and accuracy (92.0%) compared to ultrasound (76.0%, 91.3%, and 80.0%, respectively). MRI outperformed ultrasound in detecting central nervous system (95% vs. 70%), thoracic (100% vs. 66.7%), and genitourinary anomalies (100% vs. 75%). Inter-observer agreement was greater for MRI (κ = 0.86) than for USG (κ = 0.74). MRI required a longer scan time (35 ± 8 min vs. 20 ± 5 min), and 88% of patients tolerated the MRI procedure well.
ConclusionMRI provides superior diagnostic performance over ultrasound in the prenatal evaluation of fetal anomalies, particularly in central nervous system and thoracic abnormalities. It serves as an effective adjunct in cases where ultrasound findings are inconclusive.
RecommendationsMRI should be considered a complementary imaging modality in prenatal diagnostics, especially when ultrasound results are ambiguous or suggest central nervous system or thoracic anomalies
Incidental discovery of xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis as a mimicker of gall bladder adenocarcinoma: A retrospective cohort study.
Get PDFBackground
Xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) is an inflammatory condition characterised by the intramural accumulation of lipid-laden macrophages in the bladder wall. Sometimes, XGC results in adhesions of the gall bladder to adjacent organs, causing the formation of fistulous tracts and bladder perforation. Intense adhesions lead to mass formation, giving a false impression of malignancy on radiological investigations and intraoperatively. Such cases are resolved only after final histopathological diagnosis, making it the gold standard.
Aims and Objectives: The study was conducted to outline and review the presentations and investigations in cases of XGC in order to structure an approach to managing diagnostic dilemmas in treating such patients.
Materials and methods
An observational, retrospective study was conducted in the Pathology department at IGIMS, Patna. A total of 1260 cholecystectomy samples with a preoperative diagnosis of gall bladder cancer (GBC), received from January 2019 to December 2024, were included in our study. Cases were selected as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results
Statistical analysis showed that out of 1260 specimens, preoperatively diagnosed as GBC, 59 were diagnosed as XGC on histopathological examination (Group X). Group Y had a greater incidence of anorexia and weight loss. Radiological findings on retrospect in group X displayed specific features suggestive of XGC, namely diffuse gall bladder wall thickening, hypoattenuated submucosal nodules, intrahepatic duct dilatation, continuous mucosal line enhancement, and loss of interface between the gall bladder and liver.
Conclusion
It is difficult to diagnose XGC from GBC preoperatively in all cases. Histopathological examination serves as the cornerstone in such diagnostic dilemmas.
Recommendations
A multidisciplinary approach and increased awareness are key to accurate diagnosis and appropriate management
Comparison of outcomes in terms of number and quality of oocytes, embryos, and pregnancy rate in pretreatment and non-pretreatment groups in gnrh antagonist protocol in IVF – A cohort study.
Get PDFBackground: The GnRH antagonist protocol in IVF offers a patient-friendly approach with reduced treatment duration. However, follicular asynchrony remains a concern due to the inherent FSH sensitivity during the late luteal phase, potentially affecting IVF outcomes.
Aim: To compare the outcomes of pre-treatment versus non-pre-treatment groups in GnRH antagonist IVF cycles in terms of gonadotropin consumption, oocyte and embryo quality, and pregnancy rates.
Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 130 subfertile women undergoing IVF at IGIMS, Patna, randomized into pre-treatment (n=65) and non-pre-treatment (n=65) groups. Synthetic progestogens were administered in the pre-treatment group. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation was conducted using recombinant FSH, with GnRH antagonist initiated when follicles reached 14 mm.
Results: The average Antral Follicle Count (AFC) in the non-pre-treatment group was 16.10 ± 4.98, while the pre-treatment group had an AFC of 15.70 ± 5.01. The difference between the two groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.667). Similarly, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels, gonadotropin dose, stimulation duration, and number of mature oocytes retrieved showed no significant differences between the groups. The pregnancy rate in the pre-treatment group was 46.15%, compared to 44.62% in the non-pre-treatment group. This difference was not statistically significant (p = 1.000), indicating that pre-treatment did not lead to improved pregnancy rates.
Conclusion: Pre-treatment with progestogens in GnRH antagonist IVF protocols does not improve clinical outcomes, suggesting that routine pre-treatment may not be necessary in normal responders. Pre-treatment may help synchronise follicles and schedule cycles, but it does not increase reproductive outcomes.
Recommendation: A larger cohort would allow for more robust statistical analysis and might uncover additional nuances in the relationships between laboratory parameters and clinical outcomes
A cross-sectional assessment of fish populations and bacterial contamination in the uMngeni, uThukela, Umvoti, Umdloti, and Umfolozi Rivers, KwaZulu-Natal.
Get PDFBackgroundFreshwater rivers in KwaZulu-Natal are essential for biodiversity, human well-being, and ecosystem services. However, increasing anthropogenic pressures, including wastewater discharge, agricultural runoff, and urban development, have raised concerns over declining fish biodiversity and rising bacterial contamination. Fish serve as indicators of long-term ecological health, while Escherichia coli (E. coli) reflects immediate public health risks.
Methods
A cross-sectional field study was conducted in 2024 across five rivers: uMngeni, uThukela, Umvoti, Umdloti, and Umfolozi. Sampling occurred at upstream, midstream, and downstream sites. Fish were collected using electrofishing and gill nets, identified to species level, and evaluated for diversity, abundance, and trophic group. Water samples were analyzed for total coliforms and E. coli using membrane filtration per SANS 241 guidelines. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were used to test spatial trends and site differences.
Results
Fish diversity and abundance varied significantly across rivers and sites. The uMngeni and Umvoti Rivers recorded the lowest species richness, particularly downstream, indicating pollution and habitat degradation. In contrast, the Umdloti and Umfolozi Rivers showed greater diversity. Carnivorous and omnivorous species dominated impacted sites, while sensitive species occurred in less disturbed rivers. Bacterial analysis revealed elevated E. coli levels in downstream areas, with uMngeni and Umvoti sites exceeding safety thresholds (>1,000 CFU/100ml), posing health risks to local communities.
Conclusion
Marked ecological variation was observed among KwaZulu-Natal rivers. Reduced fish diversity and elevated bacterial loads in heavily impacted rivers indicate deteriorating ecological and public health conditions.
Recommendation
Integrated monitoring programs should combine biological and microbial indicators. Pollution control, wastewater treatment, agricultural buffers, and riparian restoration are essential. Promoting community-based awareness and catchment management will support long-term river conservation and sustainable use
Factors affecting oral hygiene practices among elderly people aged 65 years and above living in Nabiteete village, Luweero district, Uganda. A cross-sectional study.
Get PDFBackground
Oral health is an important aspect of general health in the elderly and impacts the quality of life. The general purpose of the study was to determine the factors affecting oral hygiene practices among elderly people aged 65 years and above living in Nabiteete village, Luweero district.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study design was utilized a quantitative research method. A sample of elderly people was determined by random sampling, and data were collected using structured questionnaires of a sample comprising 40 elderly participants residing in the study area. Data were analyzed and presented in the form of tables, graphs, and pie charts.
Results
The secondary school level had the highest number of respondents, 16(40%), with the lowest number, 5(12.5%), of respondents in primary, and the highest number, 14(35%), of respondents were married; the majority lacked adequate oral hygiene knowledge. It highlighted that a significant portion, 70% of the older population, did not receive proper oral care guidance, leading to insufficient oral hygiene practices in later stages of life. Furthermore, socio-economic factors like financial constraints were a significant barrier, with 72.5% of the respondents affected. Lastly, social and cultural factors posed another critical challenge, where 70% of participants reported poor oral hygiene due to the consumption of sugary foods.
Conclusion
The study concluded that enhancing oral hygiene knowledge from an early age and addressing economic and socio-cultural factors are crucial.
Recommendation
The MOH should increase collaboration efforts between dentists and caregivers to ensure elderly people receive optimal oral health, and a proper oral health needs assessment for the elderly people, among others
A cross-sectional study on factors associated with self-medication among residents in Kasubi parish, Kampala district.
Get PDFFACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SELF MEDICATION AMONG RESIDENTS IN KASUBI PARISH, KAMPALA DISTRIC
Serum vitamin D deficiency and its association with inflammatory markers in patients with chronic kidney disease: A hospital-based cross-sectional study.
Get PDFBackground:
Vitamin D deficiency is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may contribute to systemic inflammation; Indian hospital-based data remain limited.Objectives:
To estimate the prevalence of serum Vitamin D deficiency in CKD and assess its association with C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).Methods:
This hospital-based cross-sectional study enrolled 100 adults (≥18 years) with CKD. Serum 25(OH)D was classified as deficient (<20 ng/mL), insufficient (20–30 ng/mL), or sufficient (>30 ng/mL). CRP, IL-6, and ESR were measured. Group comparisons used one-way ANOVA, and associations were tested using Pearson’s correlation; p < 0.05 was considered significant.Results:
Mean age was 52.6 ± 12.4 years; 62% were men, and 68% had CKD stages 4–5. Vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency were seen in 64%, 22%, and 14%, respectively. CRP and IL-6 were higher in the deficient group (9.4 ± 2.6 mg/L; 12.1 ± 4.2 pg/mL) than the insufficient (6.8 ± 2.1 mg/L; 8.6 ± 3.1 pg/mL) and sufficient groups (5.2 ± 1.8 mg/L; 6.9 ± 2.4 pg/mL) (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01). ESR was higher in deficient patients but not significantly so (p = 0.12). Vitamin D correlated negatively with CRP (r = –0.48, p < 0.001) and IL-6 (r = –0.42, p = 0.002); correlation with ESR was non-significant (p = 0.12).Conclusion:
Vitamin D deficiency was highly prevalent and was associated with elevated CRP and IL-6, suggesting a link between hypovitaminosis D and systemic inflammation in CKD.Recommendations:
Routine Vitamin D screening and correction may be considered in CKD care; longitudinal and interventional studies are needed to clarify causality and optimal supplementation strategies
Household pharmaceutical waste in South Africa: A Scoping Review of disposal practices, drivers, challenges, and potential solutions.
Get PDFBackground
Improper disposal of household pharmaceutical waste (HPW) poses significant health and environmental risks. In South Africa, many households retain unused and expired medicines, with unsafe disposal practices driven by limited awareness, over-prescribing, and easy access to medicines, particularly in rural communities. This review synthesises current evidence on disposal practices, drivers, challenges, and risks to inform policy development and support interventions for safer HPW management.
Methods
Following the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review framework and PRISMA guidelines, English peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024 were identified through PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Sabinet. Studies addressing HPW generation, disposal, or management were included, while those published before 2014, not in English, or without full text were excluded. Data were extracted, charted, and synthesised thematically.
Results
Households frequently retained unused or expired medicines due to non-adherence, over-prescribing, large pack sizes, self-medication, and stockpiling. Unsafe disposal practices, such as discarding in household waste or flushing, were common. Structural and systemic factors, including limited public awareness, inadequate take-back systems, insufficient healthcare guidance, and weak regulatory enforcement, contributed to unsafe practices. The management of HPW is constrained by a combination of systemic, infrastructural, and behavioural factors. Together, these challenges impede the adoption of safe and sustainable disposal practices.
Conclusion
The HPW is influenced by multifaceted behavioural, structural, and systemic factors. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated interventions, including public education, improved regulatory frameworks, accessible take-back programs, and integration of disposal counselling into routine healthcare practice. These measures are critical to reduce risks, prevent environmental contamination, and promote sustainable HPW management.
Recommendations
Future efforts to manage HPW should prioritise the expansion of accessible take-back programs and the integration of disposal counselling into healthcare services. Continuous research and environmental monitoring should be conducted to inform interventions and support sustainable household waste management