African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research aims to publish rigorous, peer-reviewed scholarship that advances medical science, surgical practice, and public health research through ethically grounded, scientifically robust, and practically relevant studies. • Medical Research: disseminate high-quality evidence that improves clinical understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. • Surgical Scholarship: promote research on surgical procedures, perioperative care, outcomes, innovations, and evidence-based surgical practice. • Public Health Advancement: support preventive, epidemiological, community, and policy-oriented studies that strengthen population health and healthcare systems. • Integrated Health Impact: encourage work linking clinical medicine, surgery, and public health to improve health outcomes across individual and community settings. Submissions should clearly define the clinical, surgical, or public-health problem, report methods transparently, present defensible evidence, and articulate a meaningful contribution to healthcare research and practice. Scope AJMSPHR welcomes original research papers and related scholarly contributions in medicine, surgery, and public health, especially studies that demonstrate scientific rigor, ethical responsibility, and clear relevance to health outcomes, healthcare delivery, and disease prevention. • Medicine: internal medicine, clinical research, disease management, diagnostics, therapeutics, and patient-centered healthcare studies. • Surgery: general and specialized surgery, operative techniques, perioperative care, surgical outcomes, trauma care, and procedural innovation. • Public Health: epidemiology, health promotion, disease prevention, environmental health, maternal and child health, and community-health interventions. • Health Systems and Policy: healthcare access, service delivery, health management, workforce issues, and evidence informing public-health or clinical policy. • Interdisciplinary Health Research: studies bridging medicine, surgery, and public health with implications for healthcare improvement and population well-being. Priority is given to original research articles that demonstrate methodological rigor, ethical compliance, and a clear contribution to medical science, surgical knowledge, or evidence-based public-health practice.
Articles
66 Documents
<![CDATA[The Psychology of Loneliness: Understanding Its Causes, Effects, and Paths to Healing ]]>
<![CDATA[Muhammad Akram]]>;
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>;
<![CDATA[Nosheen Aslam]]>;
<![CDATA[Abid Rashid]]>;
<![CDATA[Mohammed Khudhair Hasan]]>;
<![CDATA[Hind A. Abdulghafoor]]>;
<![CDATA[Fahad Said Khan]]>;
<![CDATA[Fethi Ahmet Ozdemir]]>;
<![CDATA[Gaweł Sołowski]]>;
<![CDATA[Jehan Mohammed Al-Musawi]]>;
<![CDATA[Abid Mahmood]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.6349
<![CDATA[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.]]>
<![CDATA[Evaluation of Body Weight, Serum Glucose Level, and Oxidative Stress Parameters of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats Administered Insulin and Alkaloid Leaf Extract of Jatropha tanjorensis ]]>
<![CDATA[Idongesit Bassey Umoh]]>;
<![CDATA[Imoh Emmanuel Ukoh]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.6813
<![CDATA[This study investigates the therapeutic potential of alkaloid leaf extract of Jatropha tanjorensis (ALEJT) in managing diabetes mellitus (DM), particularly its effects on body weight, serum glucose, and oxidative stress parameters, in comparison to insulin. DM is associated with weight loss and elevated oxidative stress, prompting the need for alternative therapies. Forty female albino rats (150–200 g) were divided into four groups (n = 6). Group 1 served as the normal control, while diabetes was induced in Groups 2–4 via a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 80 mg/kg). Rats with fasting blood glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL after 72 hours were considered diabetic. Group 2 served as the diabetic control; Group 3 received ALEJT (500 mg/kg orally), and Group 4 received insulin (2 IU/kg/day i.p) for 21 days. Body weight and serum glucose were monitored, and serum antioxidant markers—glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were evaluated using standard methods. Results showed no significant weight gain in diabetic rats treated with ALEJT, while all diabetic groups had reduced percentage growth rates. Serum glucose levels were significantly elevated in diabetic rats (p < 0.001). Diabetic controls showed a marked decrease in GSH, SOD, GPx, and TAC, with a corresponding increase in MDA (p < 0.001). Treatment with ALEJT or insulin improved oxidative stress parameters, with ALEJT demonstrating superior efficacy in restoring GSH and GPx levels (p < 0.001) compared to insulin. The findings suggest that ALEJT offers protective effects against oxidative stress and may serve as a natural, safe alternative in DM management, with greater antioxidant benefits than insulin.]]>
<![CDATA[Radiological Assessment of Artisanal Mining Sites in Michika Local Government Area, Adamawa State ]]>
<![CDATA[Yusuf E. Y]]>;
<![CDATA[Maitera O. N]]>;
<![CDATA[Moddibo U. U]]>;
<![CDATA[Buba One M]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.6850
<![CDATA[The proliferation of artisanal mining activities in Michika Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State, Nigeria, has raised serious environmental and radiological safety concerns due to the presence of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs), particularly uranium-238 (U-238) and thorium-232 (Th-232). This study assesses the radiological hazards associated with these activities by analyzing soil samples collected from ten artisanal mining sites using gamma-ray spectrometry. The results revealed that the mean activity concentrations of U-238 and Th-232 were 1187.85 Bq/kg and 1052.20 Bq/kg, respectively substantially exceeding the global average values of 33 Bq/kg and 45 Bq/kg recommended by UNSCEAR (2000). Potassium-40 (K-40) was below detectable levels, likely due to the geochemical composition dominated by minerals such as monazite, zircon, and phosphate-rich rocks. The mean absorbed dose rate was 1184.32 nGy/h, significantly higher than the global average of 57 nGy/h, while the estimated mean annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE) was 1.45 mSv/year, surpassing the 1 mSv/year public exposure limit. The mean radium equivalent activity (Ra_eq) reached 2692.50 Bq/kg, far above the recommended safety limit of 370 Bq/kg. Additionally, the calculated excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) averaged 0.005084, markedly higher than the acceptable threshold of 0.00029. Other radiological indices, including the Representative Level Index (RLI), Internal Hazard Index (H_in), and External Hazard Index (H_ex) also recorded values exceeding international safety standards, particularly at sites like Sina Mala and Garta. These findings underscore the urgent need for regulatory enforcement, radiological monitoring, and the adoption of sustainable and safe mining practices to mitigate health risks for both miners and local communities.]]>
<![CDATA[Assessment of Utilization of Primary Health Care Services and Quality Health System Among Inhabitants of Wukari Local Government, Taraba State, Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Samuel Tamunoiyowuna Cockeye Brown]]>;
<![CDATA[Usman Ikrimah Mohammed]]>;
<![CDATA[Timothy Nehemiah]]>;
<![CDATA[Eze Emmanuel Onyemaechi]]>;
<![CDATA[Shuaibu Adamu Ladan]]>;
<![CDATA[Odey Catharine Rita]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.6851
<![CDATA[This study assesses the utilization of Primary Health Care (PHC) services and the perceived quality of the healthcare system among residents of Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria. While the presence of health facilities is crucial, access and utilization are influenced by a range of socioeconomic factors. Using a cross-sectional survey design, the demographic analysis revealed that the majority of respondents (59%) were aged 20–39 years, with 58% female and 42% male participants. Educational levels varied, with 37% having secondary education, 27% primary education, 20% no formal education, and 16% tertiary education. Marital status data showed 52% were single, 32% married, and 16% divorced, while religious affiliation indicated that 54% were Christians, 32% practiced African traditional religions, and 14% were Muslims. Occupationally, 53% were farmers, 26% civil/public servants, 13% artisans, and 7% petty traders. Findings revealed that major barriers to PHC utilization included inadequate staffing (90%), high drug costs (95%), long waiting times (80%), poor staff attitudes (85%), and long distances to health facilities (70%). Notably, 75% of respondents did not consider staff incompetence a major issue. Regarding satisfaction, high levels of dissatisfaction were recorded with service charges (75%), drug supply (90%), treatment modalities (60%), chronic disease management (95%), child care services (87.5%), antenatal care (90%), and delivery services (87.5%). Chi-square analysis showed a statistically significant relationship between PHC facility-related factors and service utilization (χ² = 250.7, df = 18, p < 0.001). The study concludes that despite the availability of PHC facilities, critical issues such as cost, accessibility, quality of care, and staff performance hinder effective utilization. It recommends targeted policy interventions to improve staffing, service delivery, affordability, and access to ensure equitable and efficient primary healthcare in Wukari.]]>
<![CDATA[Antimicrobial Activity of Senna siamea Fresh Leaf Extracts (Ethanolic and Aqueous Solution) on Shigella Species and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ]]>
<![CDATA[Samuel Tamunoiyowuna Cockeye Brown]]>;
<![CDATA[Usman Ikrimah Mohammed]]>;
<![CDATA[Eze Emmanuel Onyemaechi]]>;
<![CDATA[Shinggu Paula Paul]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7038
<![CDATA[The rising threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has intensified the search for alternative antimicrobial agents, particularly those derived from plants. Numerous plant species have long been used in traditional medicine, with leaf extracts showing promising antimicrobial potential. This study investigates the antimicrobial activity of ethanol and aqueous leaf extracts of Senna siamea against Shigella spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Fresh leaves of S. siamea were collected, authenticated, and subjected to solvent extraction using ethanol and distilled water. The antimicrobial effects of the extracts were evaluated using the agar well diffusion method, while the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were determined through standard microbiological procedures. The ethanol extract exhibited marked inhibitory effects against P. aeruginosa at all tested concentrations, whereas the aqueous extract showed greater efficacy against Shigella spp. at 100% concentration. Both extracts demonstrated bactericidal properties at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. These findings indicate that S. siamea contains bioactive compounds with significant antimicrobial activity, affirming its traditional use in treating infectious diseases. The results support the potential of S. siamea as a natural alternative for managing bacterial infections, particularly those involving resistant strains. Further research involving phytochemical profiling, toxicological analysis, and clinical evaluation is recommended to isolate the active compounds and assess their pharmaceutical applications.]]>
<![CDATA[A Review of Some Recent Advances in the Use of Cheiloscopy and Dermatoglyphics for Forensic Investigations ]]>
<![CDATA[Mosugu O. O.]]>;
<![CDATA[Otashu K. F.]]>;
<![CDATA[Salman J. I.]]>;
<![CDATA[Nsisong S. W.]]>;
<![CDATA[Alfred A. W.]]>;
<![CDATA[Ajayi S. O.]]>;
<![CDATA[Bright C. E.]]>;
<![CDATA[Jibaniya G. M.]]>;
<![CDATA[Katchin E. S.]]>;
<![CDATA[Tongle N. J.]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7233
<![CDATA[The field of forensic investigation has advanced significantly, particularly in developed countries, with new technologies enhancing the reliability of human identification. This review highlights recent innovations in lip printing (cheiloscopy) and fingerprinting (dermatoglyphics), focusing on their application in forensic science. While dermatoglyphics remains a conventional method, cheiloscopy has emerged as a complementary, less conventional tool for investigation and research. Recent developments incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques, which have improved the accuracy and efficiency of forensic analyses. Multimodal biometric systems that integrate cheiloscopy and dermatoglyphics further reduce error rates and increase reliability, offering stronger fraud resistance. Despite these advancements, many developing countries have yet to fully adopt or master AI- and ML-based forensic tools, limiting their application in real-world investigations. The review concludes that integrating these technologies into forensic practice has the potential to significantly improve human identification, though challenges related to accessibility, expertise, and infrastructure must be addressed.]]>
<![CDATA[Impact of Combined High-Fat Diet and Streptozotocin Exposure on Male Reproductive Health: Protective Role of Quercetin ]]>
<![CDATA[Ajayi S. O]]>;
<![CDATA[Akunna G. G]]>;
<![CDATA[Tongle Nanle]]>;
<![CDATA[Mosungu Ovayosa Omolara]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7346
<![CDATA[Male infertility is an increasing global concern with profound social and psychological implications, often linked to metabolic dysfunctions such as Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Streptozotocin (STZ), widely used to induce T2DM in animal models, is known to cause testicular toxicity through oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, thereby impairing spermatogenesis and hormone production. Quercetin, a flavonoid with established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown promise in ameliorating diabetes-related complications, including reproductive dysfunction. This study investigates the combined effects of a high-fat diet (HFD) and STZ exposure on male reproductive health, while assessing the protective role of quercetin. Fifty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to nine experimental groups and subjected to HFD, STZ, and quercetin at different doses. Testicular health was evaluated by measuring absolute and relative testicular weights. STZ was administered intraperitoneally (30 mg/kg), and quercetin was administered orally at 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg for 28 days. Results showed that STZ-treated rats had significantly reduced testicular weight (1.00 ± 0.40 g) compared to controls (1.24 ± 0.07 g), confirming testicular toxicity. Quercetin supplementation, especially at 75 mg/kg (1.52 ± 0.37 g) and 100 mg/kg (1.48 ± 0.66 g), significantly restored testicular weight, suggesting a dose-dependent protective effect. These findings demonstrate that HFD exacerbates STZ-induced testicular toxicity, while quercetin confers substantial protection, supporting its potential as a therapeutic agent for managing testicular dysfunction in diabetic conditions.]]>
<![CDATA[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 ]]>
<![CDATA[Isaac John Umaru]]>;
<![CDATA[Emmanuel Efongwa]]>;
<![CDATA[Mosugu Ovayoza Omolara]]>;
<![CDATA[Ogar Fonne Okang]]>;
<![CDATA[Ingwu Joseph Akem]]>;
<![CDATA[Akafa Andes Tansaba]]>;
<![CDATA[Shadrach Philip]]>;
<![CDATA[Otashu Kenneth Frank]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7361
<![CDATA[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.]]>
<![CDATA[Demographic Variables as Predictors of Psychological Well-Being Among Nurses in Public Hospitals in Benue State, Nigeria ]]>
<![CDATA[Okpoju Daniel Alhassan]]>;
<![CDATA[Danladi Zakariah]]>;
<![CDATA[Mboma Ibrahim]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7366
<![CDATA[This study investigated demographic variables as predictors of psychological wellbeing among nurses in public hospitals in Benue State, Nigeria. A total of 286 nurses participated, comprising 122 males (42.7%) and 164 females (57.3%), with a mean age of 44.4 years. Using a cross-sectional survey design, participants were drawn from nine public hospitals across three geopolitical zones through cluster and purposive sampling techniques, from a total nurse population of 1,120. Data were collected using the standardized Carol Ryff Psychological Wellbeing Scale, and hypotheses were tested across six wellbeing dimensions at a 0.05 significance level using multivariate analysis of variance. The first hypothesis predicted a significant effect of age on psychological wellbeing; however, results showed no significant influence of age on overall wellbeing [R = .101, R² = .010, F(1,263) = 2.867, p > .05], nor on any of its dimensions, including autonomy, environmental mastery, positive relations, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. The second hypothesis posited that sex, cadre, marital status, and duration of service would have significant main and interaction effects on wellbeing. Findings revealed significant effects only for duration of service on personal growth [F(3) = 2.931, p < .01], marital status on overall wellbeing [F(1) = 6.386, p < .01], and marital status on positive relations [F(1) = 30.053, p < .05]. Thus, duration of service and marital status emerged as significant predictors, partially confirming the hypothesis. The study recommends that government employ clinical psychologists in public hospitals to periodically assess, diagnose, and manage psychological issues among nurses, as well as provide training on social and occupational norms to improve wellbeing and optimize professional functioning.]]>
<![CDATA[Effect of the Different Drying Methods on the Chemical Composition of Fluted Pumpkin Leaves (Telfairia occidentalis) ]]>
<![CDATA[Mary Athanasius Udoh]]>;
<![CDATA[Abimbola Gbenga Olayemi]]>;
<![CDATA[Daniel Oche Onah]]>;
<![CDATA[Musbau Adekunle Yahaya]]>;
<![CDATA[Augustina Elochukwu Ijezie]]>;
<![CDATA[Chukwunonso John-Cyril Umeh]]>
<![CDATA[ African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research ]]>
Publisher : <![CDATA[Darul Yasin Al Sys ]]>
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DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7477
<![CDATA[Vegetables, primarily the leafy parts of edible plants, are vital sources of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for maintaining good health. Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin leaves), widely consumed among various ethnic groups in Nigeria, is a green leafy vegetable often subjected to drying for preservation and flavor enhancement. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of drying methods on the chemical composition of T. occidentalis leaves. Approximately 2.5 kg of fresh leaves were procured from Watt Market, Calabar (South-South Nigeria), sorted, and divided into three equal portions: a fresh (untreated) control, a sun-dried sample, and an oven-dried sample. After one month of drying, the samples were pulverized into flour, packaged in airtight containers, and stored in a cool, dry place. Proximate, elemental, and phytochemical analyses were conducted using standard methods. Results revealed a substantial reduction in moisture content from 83.01 ± 0.1% in the fresh sample to 22.60 ± 0.1% and 10.50 ± 0.2% in sun- and oven-dried samples, respectively, leading to increased dry matter. Enhanced concentrations of ash, crude protein, fat, fiber, and carbohydrates were observed, particularly in oven-dried samples (e.g., crude protein increased from 2.80 ± 0.02% to 5.13 ± 0.01%). However, mineral content declined with drying, more significantly in oven-dried samples; sodium levels, for instance, decreased from 9.30 mg/100g (control) to 7.71 mg/100g (sun-dried) and 4.34 mg/100g (oven-dried). Additionally, anti-nutritional factors and food toxicants were significantly reduced, especially in oven-dried leaves. The findings suggest that while drying enhances certain nutritional attributes, it also compromises some mineral content. Nevertheless, drying remains a viable strategy to extend shelf life and reduce waste in the absence of refrigeration.]]>
