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The Psychology of Loneliness: Understanding Its Causes, Effects, and Paths to Healing Muhammad Akram; Isaac John Umaru; Nosheen Aslam; Abid Rashid; Mohammed Khudhair Hasan; Hind A. Abdulghafoor; Fahad Said Khan; Fethi Ahmet Ozdemir; Gaweł Sołowski; Jehan Mohammed Al-Musawi; Abid Mahmood
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.6349

Abstract

Loneliness is a deeply personal and multifaceted emotional state that affects millions of individuals across all ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds. Often misunderstood as a temporary feeling, loneliness can have serious implications for both mental and physical health, contributing to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. This article explores the psychological underpinnings of loneliness, examining how it influences emotional well-being, thought processes, and behavior. It also analyzes the broader social and cultural dynamics, such as digital disconnection, urbanization, and changing family structures that have contributed to its growing prevalence in the modern world. In response, the article discusses a range of evidence-based approaches to addressing loneliness, including public awareness initiatives, therapeutic interventions focused on social reengagement, and lifestyle adjustments aimed at fostering meaningful connections. By highlighting these strategies, the article seeks not only to demystify the experience of loneliness but also to promote resilience and recovery, offering a hopeful perspective on overcoming this often-invisible emotional struggle.
Effect of Methanol Stem Bark Extract of Annona senegalensis as an Antibacterial Agent and on Liver Enzyme Markers in Diethyl Nitrosamine-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats Isaac John Umaru; Emmanuel Efongwa; Mosugu Ovayoza Omolara; Ogar Fonne Okang; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Akafa Andes Tansaba; Shadrach Philip; Otashu Kenneth Frank
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7361

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, frequently linked to exposure to chemical carcinogens such as diethylnitrosamine (DEN). Medicinal plants have emerged as promising sources of bioactive compounds with potential anticancer and antimicrobial properties. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of methanol stem-bark extract of Annona senegalensis against DEN-induced hepatocellular carcinoma and selected bacterial pathogens. Fifty-four male albino rats were allocated into six groups, with hepatocarcinogenesis induced by DEN, followed by a 14-day treatment with varying doses of the extract. Hepatoprotective effects were assessed using liver enzyme markers and serum protein levels, while antibacterial activity was determined via disc diffusion assays against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Results demonstrated that the extract significantly reduced liver enzyme levels (ALT, AST, ALP) and improved serum proteins (total protein and albumin) at higher doses (400 and 600 mg/kg), indicating hepatoprotective potential. Bilirubin levels also improved, suggesting reduced liver stress. Antibacterial evaluation revealed dose-dependent activity, with strong inhibition against S. aureus comparable to tetracycline at 200 µg/mL, and moderate efficacy against E. coli. These findings highlight the dual therapeutic potential of A. senegalensis stem-bark extract as both a hepatoprotective and antibacterial agent. Future studies are recommended to isolate and characterize the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects and to expand antibacterial evaluation to a wider spectrum of pathogens.
Neuroprotective Effects of Cloves on Albino Rats Induced with Mercury Isaac John Umaru; Mosugu O. O; Solomon Ossom Asare; Bakari Genevieve Sirina; Shelter Agbeko Bobie; Atsu Ayi
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.7893

Abstract

This study evaluated the neuroprotective potential of clove (Syzygium aromaticum, CV) in albino rats exposed to mercury chloride (MC), utilizing a diabetic rat model to investigate both neurological and immunological responses. Clove is known for its potent antioxidant properties, with applications spanning the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and agricultural sectors. Mercury chloride, a recognized neurotoxin, is commonly ingested through carbohydrate-rich foods subjected to high-temperature processing. The experimental design included five groups: Group I (Control: corn flour diet), Group II (MC-treated: 20 mg/kg body weight), Group III (CV-treated: 200 mg/kg BW), Group IV (CV 100 mg/kg BW + MC 20 mg/kg BW), and Group V (CV 200 mg/kg BW + ascorbic acid 20 mg/kg BW), with treatments administered over 21 days. MC exposure induced oxidative stress and DNA damage in brain tissue, evidenced by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and histopathological degeneration in the hippocampal MA3 region and granular layer (HL). Clove administration significantly mitigated these effects by increasing glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, reducing MDA concentrations, lowering gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and elevating acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, thereby restoring biochemical parameters toward normal levels. Histological findings further confirmed the protective effect of clove against MC-induced neuronal damage. These results suggest that clove confers neuroprotection through its antioxidative and neurochemical modulation properties, highlighting its potential therapeutic value in preventing heavy metal-induced neurotoxicity.
A Study to Determine the Incidence of Drug Abuse Among Students of Tertiary Institutions. A Case Study Wukari Isaac John Umaru; Solomon Ossom Asare; Emmanuel Omanchi; Debora Akinola Umogbai; Abimbola Gbenga Olayemi; Zainab Bello Dambazau; Emmanuel Eluu Chukwudi; Precious Chioma Jack
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.8024

Abstract

This study explores the incidence, patterns, and consequences of drug abuse among students in tertiary institutions in Taraba State, Nigeria, using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative survey data revealed that 28.4% of students had engaged in drug use, with alcohol (64.8%), cannabis (45.1%), and tramadol identified as the most commonly abused substances. Qualitative insights from focus group discussions and key informant interviews highlighted the social dynamics, institutional gaps, and cultural factors shaping substance use, with male students aged 21–25 and those living off-campus emerging as the most vulnerable demographic, while covert drug use among female students was linked to peer and romantic influences. Peer pressure, academic stress, and curiosity were reported as primary motivators, and hostel environments were found to foster experimentation. Drug abuse was associated with academic decline, mental health problems—including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation—and low utilization of counseling services, whereas institutional responses were characterized by limited drug education, weak enforcement, and poor awareness of available support systems. The study underscores the urgent need for integrated prevention strategies, peer-led interventions, and enhanced mental health services to address this growing public health concern.
Phytochemical, Nutraceutical Profiles and Potential of Soursop Leaf Extract (Annona muricata) on Bacterial Meningitis Isaac John Umaru; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Katchim Evelyn Shadrach; Julius Ishaya Salman; Jibaniya Grace Mchibuma; Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.8300

Abstract

The rise of multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens has intensified the search for alternative antimicrobial agents. Annona muricata (soursop), a tropical medicinal plant, has demonstrated promising antibacterial properties attributed to its rich phytochemical profile. However, the mechanistic basis of its antibacterial action remains underexplored. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the mechanistic effects of A. muricata leaf extract on key bacterial targets, including cell wall integrity, membrane permeability, protein leakage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, DNA fragmentation, and quorum sensing interference, using E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa as representative strains. Materials and Methods: Fresh A. muricata leaves were extracted using ethanol and tested at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. Bacterial cultures were subjected to six mechanistic assays: crystal violet staining for cell wall integrity, propidium iodide and NPN fluorescence for membrane permeability, SDS-PAGE for protein synthesis inhibition, Bradford assay for protein leakage, DCFH-DA assay for ROS generation, and violacein quantification using the CV026 biosensor for quorum sensing interference. Ciprofloxacin served as a positive control, and untreated cultures served as a negative control. Results: The extract caused significant cell wall disruption (62.4%), comparable to ciprofloxacin (75.6%). Membrane permeability increased markedly, with PI and NPN fluorescence levels reaching 60–80% across strains. Protein leakage was elevated, with extracellular protein concentrations ranging from 25–30 µg/mL. SDS-PAGE revealed a 48.3–52.7% reduction in protein bands, indicating inhibition of protein synthesis. ROS levels surged to 8,000–9,500 RFU in treated samples, suggesting oxidative stress. DNA integrity scores dropped to 1–2, confirming genotoxic effects. Quorum sensing was inhibited by 68.9%, reducing violacein production and potential virulence. Conclusion: Annona muricata leaf extract exhibits potent antibacterial activity through multiple mechanisms, including structural disruption, metabolic interference, and oxidative damage. Its efficacy, comparable to ciprofloxacin in several assays, highlights its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent. These findings support further investigation into its bioactive compounds and therapeutic applications in combating resistant bacterial infections.
Breast Cancer Knowledge as a Predictor of Regular Breast Self-Examination among Women Aged 20–49 in Ejisu Municipality, Ghana Joseph Oteng; Bemhemba Iba; Isaac John Umaru
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.9084

Abstract

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women globally, and in low-resource settings such as Ghana, breast self-examination (BSE) remains a cost-effective strategy for early detection, yet a persistent gap exists between awareness and consistent practice. This study assessed women’s knowledge of breast cancer and examined whether knowledge predicts regular BSE practice among women aged 20–49 years in Ejisu Municipality, Ghana. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 635 women selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, breast cancer knowledge, and BSE practice, with knowledge scores categorized as low, moderate, or high using tertiles. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression were applied, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The mean age of participants was 32.9 ± 7.1 years, and most (67.2%) demonstrated high breast cancer knowledge, primarily sourced from health professionals (53.5%). Although 72.0% had heard of BSE, only 32.1% practiced it monthly as recommended, with key barriers including lack of knowledge of the correct technique (47.8%) and fear of detecting a lump (22.8%). Knowledge level was significantly associated with regular BSE practice (χ² = 42.57, p < 0.001), and multivariate analysis showed that women with high knowledge were more than three times as likely to perform regular BSE (AOR = 3.45, 95% CI: 2.18–5.52, p < 0.001) compared with those with low knowledge. Tertiary education (AOR = 2.26, p = 0.004) and receiving information from health workers (AOR = 2.06, p = 0.008) also independently predicted regular BSE. The study concludes that breast cancer knowledge is a strong predictor of regular BSE practice; despite relatively high awareness, routine BSE remains low due to skill-related and psychological barriers. Strengthening health education with practical demonstrations and integrating BSE counseling into routine clinical care and community outreach may enhance preventive behavior and contribute to earlier breast cancer detection.
Evaluation of Malaria and Typhoid Coinfection Among Patients at Yola General Hospital, Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Usenobong Morgan Akpan; Julius Ishaya Salman; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i2.9403

Abstract

Although malaria and typhoid fever remain highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, evidence on the prevalence and clinical profile of coinfection in northeastern Nigeria remains limited. This study evaluated the burden and characteristics of malaria and typhoid coinfection among febrile patients attending Yola General Hospital in Adamawa State. A cross-sectional design was employed involving 300 patients presenting with febrile illness. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and laboratory diagnostics. Malaria was diagnosed using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy, whereas typhoid fever was assessed using the Widal test and blood cultures. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify significant associations. The findings showed that 102 patients (34%) had malaria only, 78 (26%) had typhoid only, and 54 (18%) were coinfected. Coinfection was most prevalent among individuals aged 21–40 years (55.6%) and was slightly more common in males (55.6%) than females (44.4%). The most frequently reported symptoms among coinfected patients were fever (100%), headache (88.9%), abdominal pain (77.8%), and diarrhea (66.7%). Behavioral risk factors, including inconsistent mosquito net use, poor hand hygiene, and consumption of untreated water, were significantly associated with infection. Coinfection rates also peaked during the rainy season from June to September, accounting for 74.1% of cases. The study concludes that malaria and typhoid coinfection constitutes a substantial clinical and public health burden in Yola. These findings contribute empirical evidence on the demographic, symptomatic, behavioral, and seasonal profile of coinfected patients and highlight the need for dual diagnostic screening, improved laboratory infrastructure, and targeted health education on hygiene and vector control.
Co-Authors , Jaouher Ben Ali A. J. Amuda Abdul Wadood Chishti Abdullahi Sa’adu Adeseye Abdulmumin Jabir Abid Mahmood Abid Rashid Abimbola Gbenga Olayemi Abimbola Gbenga Olayeni Aboki Nwunuji Mijinyawa Abu Michael Sunday Abubakar Aisami Adeseye Helen Oluwabunmi Adetoyi Moses Gbadebo Adeyanju Kate Yemisi Agbo Chibuike Ekunyi Agbo Christiana Onyindia Ahmad Alhassan Siddan Ajala-Lawal R. A Ajiduku Leyoa Abershi Akafa Andes Tansaba Akafa Andes Tensaba Akoh Miracle Talent Akpan Usenobong Morgan Alam Afroz Urooj Khan Ale Ebenezer Morayo Alice Njolke Mafe Aliyu Olamilekan Najeeb Ameh Godwin Okwori Amna Javed Ananias Amen Anih David Chinonso Anthony Mishara Audu Arowora K. A Arowora K. A. Arowora Kayode Arowora Kayode Adebisi Artu Ishishen John Ashaka Fidelis Utioukpan Atsu Ayi Augustine Absalom Bakari Genevieve Sirina Bando Christopher David Bemhemba Iba Benjamin Nanisi Daniel Bilyaminu Habibu Chabunda Endashi Esseyi Chakfa Nanmar Charles Ayara Chinedu Christian Iheanacho Chukuma Stephen Ezeonu Dafup Kadel Istifanus Dafup Katdel Istifanus Daniel Konka Danjuma Janya Danladi Mbosire Peter Danlami Efoseh David Christopher Bando David Umahi Dawoye Yusufu Debora Akinola Umogbai dulrashid Dauda Maianguwa Ebenezer Morayo Ale Edom Favour Ogochukwu Egbeadumah Maryanne Odufa Egeonu Stephen Ugoeze Eisa Yazeed Ghazwani Eluu Emmanuel Chukwudi Emmanuel Alooma Emmanuel Askeb-nde Joel Emmanuel Askebnde Joel Emmanuel Chikodiri Okoli Emmanuel Efongwa Emmanuel Eluu Chukwudi Emmanuel Olofu Omanchi Emmanuel Omanchi Eric Agim Agaba Etah Hope Mona Evelyn Ovenomo Tony-Enwin Ezeonu C. S Ezugwu Hilary Chikata Fahad Said Khan Favour Joel Bafai Fethi Ahmet Ozdemi Fethi Ahmet Ozdemir Fidelis Okii Ekpo Gabriel Favour Chisom Gaweł Sołowski Genevieve A. Yeboah Genevieve Akpah Yeboah George Okra Hassan Gideon Likida Tiimob Gift Amofa Gloria Omonefe Oladele Gomba Victoria Eno Habiba Idris Adam Haleema Sadia Hauwa A. Umaru Helen Oluwabunmi Hind A. Abdulghafoor Ibrahim Jamilat Mijinyawa Idris Habiba Adams Ikrimah Usman Mohammed Ikwebe Joseph Imo Chinedu Inemesit Samuel Essien Ingwu Joseph Akem Ingwu Joseph Akem3 Iornenge Terungwa Joseph Isaac Eleojo Shaibu Isbah Shahid Iseko Iyoko Kingsly Ismail Yunusa Yuguda Izam Emmanuel David Jackson Soyinka Malantso James Agbu Sunday James Eneji Agwu Jankada Patience Audu Janya Danjuma Jaouher Ben Ali Jehan Mohammad Al-Musawi Jehan Mohammed Al-Musawi Jehan Mohammed Jehan Mohammed Al-Musawi Jibaniya Grace Mchibuma Joanna Afariba Johnson John Odiba Oko Joseph Oteng Josephine Maina Sule Julius Ishaya Salman Kaka Garpiya Yakubu Katchim Evelyn Shadrach Katchin Evelyn Shadrach Kerenhappuch Isaac Umar Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru Khalid Yahuza Abbas Kingsley Bassey Enang Kingsley Iyoko Iseko Kwabena Owusu Amoah Kyugah Jacob Tersur Lawal Danjuma Tyem Lawal Favour Enyojo Lazaru Joseph Goje Lipana Dorcas Bappa Lubabatu Abdulrasheed Maayam Usman Ahmed Mai-anguwa Abdulrashid Dauda Maianguwa Abdulrashid Dauda Maianguwa Abdulrsashid Dauda Manasseh Ilumunter Matilda Mary Athanasius Udoh Maryam Usman Ahmed Mathew Jacob Mathias Mawuli Ametefe Mgbede Timothy Michael S. Abu Michael Sunday Abu Misbah Ahmed Mohammed Khudhair Hasan Momina Iftikhar Moses Adondua Abah Mosugu O. O Mosugu Ovayoza Omolara Muhammad Abdullah Muhammad Akram Muhammad Bashir Muhammad Muhammad Haris Baig Muhammad Tayyab Aslam Muhammad Zuhairah Ismail Musa Azegya Mustapha Musbau Adekunle Yahaya Nanyak Zingfa Galam Nasiru Audu Ngabea Nkechi Gift Ijeomah Nkiri Annasthesia Ekubnse Nosheen Aslam Nurudeen Umar Abdulkadir Nwachukwu Favour Onyinyechi Nwofor Innocent Obadiah Saveni Yusuf Oche Williams Ujah Ocheifa Mathew Ngbede Ocheifa Matthew Ngbede Odok Endurance Akam Ogar Fonne Okang Ogholo Ogholo Ekup Ojochenemi E. Yakubu Ojochenemi Ejeh Yakubu Okoli Emmanuel Okpanachi Nuhu Oyibo Okrah George Hassan Olabanji Martina Morolake Olawale Otitoju Oluwasegun M. Oladimeji Omachi Blessing John Onwubiko A. Henry Onwubiko N. Grace Otashu Kenneth Frank Otitoju Olawale Otitoju Oluwale Otitujo Olawale Ozzioma Praise Acha Panah Philemon Peter Ise Uduak Precious Chioma Jack Prince Kwadwo Gyasi Prince Osei Akumia Prosper Uneju Peter Queen Uyo Williams Rashida Ismail Mohammed Sabahat Abbas Samuel Tamunoiyowuna Cockeye Brown Selumun Solomon Ipav Shadrach Philip Shelter Agbeko Bobie Shitta Nasisi Namuma Simon Teza Zinas Solomon Chuanu Solomon Godiya Marvelous Solomon O. Asare Solomon Ossom Asare Steve Osagie Asuelimen Sukyakma Manu Sulaiman Abubakar Aliyu Sule John Ugbedeojo Tahmina Maqbool Tensaba Andes Akafa Tongle Nanle John Tsokwa Punarimam Rebecca Tyem Lawal Danjuma Ubur Terzulum Wilson Ugwuala Chimaobi Melvin Ugwuoke Kenneth C Umme Laila Urooj Rehman Usenobong Morgan Akpan Usman Ikira Usman Lukman Adamu Victor Duniya Sheneni Victor Makanjuola Victoria Ifeoluwa Ayo Vika Tensaba Akafa Williams Oche Ujah Wisdom L. Benjamin Yakubu Ojochenemi Ejeh Zainab Bello Dambazau Zephaniah Hananiah Shenia