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Papers by mike odey
African Journal of Biomedical Research, Sep 30, 2019
The unconfirmed perception of herbal-based alcoholic beverages as drinks of medicinal, antimalari... more The unconfirmed perception of herbal-based alcoholic beverages as drinks of medicinal, antimalarial and aphrodisiac value have resulted in increased intake of thwisese products in many developing countries. Herein, we investigated biochemical and physiological responses in rats of some commonly consumed herbalized alcoholic beverages in Nigeria. Male Wistar rats were treated with Action bitters (AcB), Alomo bitters (ALB), Origin bitters (OrB), 1960 bitters, Local gin (LG), Local gin plus Vitamin B (LG+VtB) daily at a dose of 2.68 mL/kg bw. A control group was given distilled water. Serum biochemical parameters; cholesterol, triacylglycerol, high and low density lipoprotein (H-LDL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and electrolytes; potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl-) and bicarbonate (HCO3-) were measured after 90 days treatment. There were significant increases in serum cholesterol, triacylglycerol, H-LDL, AST, ALT, ALP, LDH and GGT in alcohol treated groups compared with control suggesting hepato-toxicity. The Levels of (K+), sodium (Na+), and bicarbonate (HCO3-) significantly decreased in treatments groups compared with control indicating negative physiological consequences on serum electrolytes including hypokalemia, hyponatremia and osmotic balance. Principal component analysis (PCA), revealed a positive relationship between LG treatment group with cholesterol, triacylglycerol, AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, and LDH) indicating that LG induced more pronounced biological effects compared with other tested alcoholic beverages. Overall, the increase in cholesterol, triacylglycerol and LDL with a corresponding decrease in HDL in treatment groups compared with control may suggest a probable mode of action and provide a mechanistic insight by which alcoholic beverages induce coronary liver and heart disease.
This study was aimed at isolating and identifying Shigella, Salmonella and Escherichia coli bacte... more This study was aimed at isolating and identifying Shigella, Salmonella and Escherichia coli bacteria associated with poultry litter obtained from the University of Mkar Community, Adekaa, Gboko central and GRA Gboko. The study also determines the antibiotic sensitivity patterns of the associated bacteria. The bacteria were isolated and identified phenotipically following standard microbiological methods. The antibiotic sensitivity patterns of the isolated bacteria tested against Septrin, Chloranphenicol, Sparfloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Amoxacillin, Augmentin, Gentamycin, Pefloxacin, Tarivid and Streptomycin. Shigella and Salmonella were completely resistant to chloranphenicol, augmentin, pefloxacin, amoxicillin. Shigella were also resistant to all the antibiotics excepts Septrin and ciprofloxacin showed they are intermediate to the drugs. Percentage antibiotics susceptibility pattern of gram negative bacteria isolated from poultry litter showed all bacterial isolates (100%) were resistant to Chloranphenicol while most of the isolates were susceptible to Amoxacillin. All the bacterial isolates showed high level (10.2 MAR index) antibiotic resistance. The study found that there was close (R= .516) association between the isolates and antibiotics. There was also significant relationship (X 2 = 5.871) between isolates and occurrence at different sample sites. The study therefore recommends proper information dissemination to farmers and poultry feeds producers on dangers of antibiotic resistant strains, use of Probiotics in animal feeds to prevent gastro-intestinal infections and use of regulations to control poultry litter disposal.
The glycemic index (GI) provides a measure of how quickly blood sugar levels (i.e. levels of gluc... more The glycemic index (GI) provides a measure of how quickly blood sugar levels (i.e. levels of glucose in the blood) rise after eating a particular type of food. In this study, the glycemic index and glycemic load of certain root tuber foods (yam, potato, and cassava) in both diabetic and non-diabetic conditions were compared. Glucose with a glycemic index of 100 was used as reference. The comparative studies showed the glycemic indices for cassava flour (59.34±32.42 and 40.12±25.27) respectively for diabetic and healthy subjects was significantly higher (p<0.05) than that of yam flour (49.81±10.38 and 35.50±11.71) for diabetic and healthy subjects. The glycemic index for baked sweet potato (94.80±8.01) was significantly higher (p<0.05) than roasted (82.01±5.20), fried (76.01±7.10) and boiled (46.00±5.89), for the same root tuber.
The medicinal value of any plant derives largely from its endowed chemical substances responsible... more The medicinal value of any plant derives largely from its endowed chemical substances responsible for the observed pharmacological action(s). The present study therefore, evaluated the distribution of these constituents viz: phytochemicals, proximate composition and vitamin content of the stem and root bark of Nauclea latifolia. The result revealed the presence of relatively high amounts of antioxidant vitamins (mg/100g
The nutritional quality of pulp, seeds and rind of Citrullus lanatus, was evaluated. The study wa... more The nutritional quality of pulp, seeds and rind of Citrullus lanatus, was evaluated. The study was carried out on both fresh and dried samples. Results of the investigation reveal that Citrullus lanatus rind was superior to Citrullus lanatus Pulp, seed. Citrullus lanatus pulp,seed and rind were low in their pro-vitamin A (carotenoid) though that of the rind was higher compared with other parts of the fruit. More so, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) content of the rind and seed were significantly (p< 0.05) lower compared with the pulp. Beside, the fruits generally were low in B vitamins. Although there was a significant difference at (p< 0.05) in the nutrient contents in the different parts of the fruits, the nutrients in the seeds and rind which are the parts always discarded, can contribute immensely to recommended daily allowance and maintenance of good nutritional status and hence good health for both man and animals.
Oxidative stress and oxidative damage to tissues are involved in the path physiology of many dise... more Oxidative stress and oxidative damage to tissues are involved in the path physiology of many diseases. Many occupations, most especially crafts are associated with the generation of high levels of free radicals and hence increased post-oxidant level. This study evaluated the serum level of Superoxide dismutase, Malondealdehyde and uric acid of artisans in Cross-River State, Nigeria. The results reveals that the SOD level in all the artisans did not show any significant change at P<0.05. However, MDA level in mechanics (4.53±0.25), Welders (4.42±0.20) and spray painter (4.00±0.06) where all significantly lower when compared with the control (3.14±0.09) at P≤0.05, thus indicating increased per oxidation but the reveres was the case for carpenters where no change was observed compared with the control. More so, determination of uric acid level showed that mechanics (2.71± 0.31), welders (3.98±0.22), Battery repairers (3.40±0.37) marked significance difference compared with control (5.86±0.28) though similar trend was seen in carpenters (5.72±0.20) and spray painters (4.22±0.25). All groups of artisans were compared with the control at P≤0.05 lev el of probability. Thus, this work has opened up the occupational hazard associated craft Men or artisans and the possible health implications associated with their jobs and hence recommend more safety guides and increased anti-oxidant nutrients consumptions.
In this study, the phytochemical constituents of Ereromastax speciosa and ereromatax polysperma l... more In this study, the phytochemical constituents of Ereromastax speciosa and ereromatax polysperma leaves was investigated. These leaves are commonly used amongst traditional birth attendants in the rural regions of calabar cross river state and akwa ibom state, Nigeria. In this study, experienced traditional birth attendants from the local regions in cross river and akwaibom were orally interviewed about the use of these herbs in enhancing fertility. Claims have been made by these traditional birth attendants on the efficacy of these plants for the treatment of internal heat, arresting of post partum bleeding, other reproductive complications like retention of placenta, enhancing of fertility in infertile females. Quantitative phytochemical analysis of these leaves were determined using the methods described by Harborne [1], including the method of Swain[2] for the determination of tannins , Spectrophotometric method of Brunner [3] for the determination of saponnins, Folin-Ciocalteau reagent method[4], for the determination of polyphenols, has revealed the presence of bioactive components in varying quantities. Results on phytochemical analysis on Ereromastax polysperma and Ereromastax speciosa respectively showed the presence of Tannins(15.00±0.00 and 45.00±0.00),
The comparative effects of coartem, quinine and quinine rich drinks on the spermatogenic indices ... more The comparative effects of coartem, quinine and quinine rich drinks on the spermatogenic indices were evaluated in male Wistar rats. Results of the sperm indices revealed that coartem and quinine treatments had the highest percentage of sperm cells with abnormalities compared to the control. Those of other treatments showed no significant (p>0.05 and p>0.001) changes. The abnormalities ranged from tailless head, bent tail, curved tail, bent mid piece and rudimental tail to looped tail. The sperm motility results showed that treatment with soda water and quinine had significantly (p<0.05 and p<0.001) high percentage of non-motile sperm cells relative to control. More so, quinine treatment recorded significantly (p<0.05) lower number of sperm cells while other treatments showed no significant changes relative to control.
The effect of activity directed fractions of vernonia amygdalina on the levels of urea, uric acid... more The effect of activity directed fractions of vernonia amygdalina on the levels of urea, uric acid; total and conjugated bilirubin in wistar albino rats during acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity was investigated in this research. The forty-eight (48) wistar albino rats used were divided into 8 groups of six rats each. Group one, the normal control group received distilled water, group two received only paracetamol throughout the experimental period. Groups three to eight were administered with 171.43mg/kg body weight of paracetamol and treated with 200mg/kg body weight of activity directed fractions of vernonia amygdalina throughout the 14 days of treatment. Result shows significantly lower levels (p<0.05) of uric acid in the paracetamol, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol, methanol and residue E treated fractions compared to the normal control. However, the benzene fraction had a higher uric acid level (p<0.05) compared to the normal control. Urea levels significantly increased (p<0.05) in groups treated with fractions of chloroform and residue E while it significantly decreased (p<0.05) in the butanol treated group over the normal control group. Total bilirubin levels were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the treatment groups compared to the normal control. Whereas, the conjugated bilirubin level was non-significantly higher (p>0.05) than the normal control, the levels were significantly higher (p<0.05) in groups treated with fractions of benzene and butanol compared with the normal control levels, levels of conjugated bilirubin were non significantly higher (p>0.05) in chloroform and residue E treated groups when compared with the normal control. Non-significantly higher levels (p>0.05) of conjugated bilirubin were observed in all treated groups except the ethyl acetate fraction group compared to the paracetamol group. Vernonia amygdalina fractions have the ability to protect against acetaminophen induced liver damage coupled with antioxidative potentials. This suggests that vernonia amygdalina is suitable for the treatment of acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity.
Indigenous medicinal plants have great medicinal potentials, as they have been used and are still... more Indigenous medicinal plants have great medicinal potentials, as they have been used and are still in use for the management of several ailments and as nutritional supplements. The medicinal efficacy of medicinal plants is highly depended on the method of extraction or extract preparation. The present study evaluates the preparation of crude extracts from the root bark and stem bark of three plants with medicinal potentials – Vernonia amygdalina, Nauclea latifolia and Gongronema latifolium – using 80% ethanol as solvent and standard laboratory equipment. The result showed a high (%) yield of 13.6 and 11.96 respectively for root bark and stem bark of Vernonia amygdalina, 10.75 and 10.01 respectively for root bark and stem bark of Gongronema latifolium and 19.90 and 18.30 respectively for root and stem bark of Nauclea latifolia. These extracts were used for various analysis such as proximate and phytochemicals and the results agreed with those of the extracts of the same plants using other standard methods. Also, the extracts were used for toxicity, anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive screening and were found to be of high efficacy.
The effect of treatment with activity directed fractions of Vernonia amygdalina during acetaminop... more The effect of treatment with activity directed fractions of Vernonia amygdalina during acetaminophen - induced hepatotoxicity in wistar albino rats for 14 days was investigated. The 48 wistar albino rats used were divided into 8 groups of 6 rats each. Group 1 served as the normal control group and received only distilled water. Group 2 served as paracetamol control group and received only paracetamol. Groups 3-8 were treated with acetaminophen and activity directed fractions of Vernonia amygdalina. The extracts were obtained by fractionation of the crude ethanolic extract using organic solvents of increasing polarities. Paracetamol was administered at a dose of 171.41mg/kg and the fractions of vernonia amygdalina at 200mg/kg. At the end of the treatment with fractions of benzene, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol, methanol and residue E produced varying results in the level of total protein, albumin and globulin. Results obtained shows a significant decrease (P 0.05) in groups treated with fractions of vernonia amygdalina due to liver dysfunction. From the result significantly increased globulin levels (g/dl) in groups treated with residue E, methanol, and chloroform as well as increased total protein levels in the residue E , methanol, butanol, ethyl acetate , chloroform and butanol groups compared to the paracetamol group is indicative of the fact that the hepatoprotective principles of vernonia amygdalina may reside in these fractions.
Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health pr... more Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health problem in developed countries. It is common, asymptomatic, readily detectable, usually easily managed and usually leads to lethal complications if left unmanaged. This study evaluates the body and organ weights changes of hypertensive rats gavaged with ethanolic root and stem bark extracts of Nauclealatifolia. The stem extract produced a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the relative liver weight in the group treated with 300mg/Kg body weight of stem extract, compared to the normal control. There was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg body weight of stem extract and that of the standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the body weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of stem extract, compared to the hypertensive control. Also, there was a significant decrease (P< 0.05) between the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of root extract and that of standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. The body weight of rats treated with 150mg/Kg and 300mg/Kg body weight of root extract were also significantly increased (P < 0.05) compared to the hypertensive control.These changes showed that N. latifoliahave antihypertensive potentials
The effect of chronic consumption of red palm oil on organs weight and certain biochemical parame... more The effect of chronic consumption of red palm oil on organs weight and certain biochemical parameters in albino wistar rats was evaluated. The design consisted of 5 study groups of 8 rats each. Group A were fed on rat chow supplemented with 10% oxidized palm oil, group B received rat chow supplement with 10% freshly prepared palm oil, while group C were fed on rat chow supplemented with 20% oxidized palm oil, group D were fed with rat chow supplemented with 20% freshly prepared palm oil and only rat pellets were given to group E which served as the control. The feeding lasted for a period of three months (90 days) after which blood and tissues were obtained for evaluation of organs weight and certain biochemical indices. Results of organ weight shows that the organ weight of group B recorded significant (p < 0.05) increase while those of group A, B and D showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease when compared with the control. The serum urea results of group A and B were significantly (p < 0.05) higher while group C and D were significantly (p < 0.05) lower when compared with control. However, the serum albumin level of group B, C and D were significantly (p < 0.05) lower compared with the control while that of group A showed no significant change. Moreso, statistical evaluation reveals that the serum creatinine levels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in group 4 while those of other groups compared well with control. No significant changes was observed for total protein except for group C which was significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared with control.
Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health pr... more Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health problem in developed countries. It is common, asymptomatic, readily detectable, usually easily managed and usually leads to lethal complications if left unmanaged. This study evaluates the body and organ weights changes of hypertensive rats gavaged with ethanolic root and stem bark extracts of Nauclealatifolia. The stem extract produced a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the relative liver weight in the group treated with 300mg/Kg body weight of stem extract, compared to the normal control. There was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg body weight of stem extract and that of the standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the body weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of stem extract, compared to the hypertensive control. Also, there was a significant decrease (P< 0.05) between the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of root extract and that of standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. The body weight of rats treated with 150mg/Kg and 300mg/Kg body weight of root extract were also significantly increased (P < 0.05) compared to the hypertensive control.These changes showed that N. latifoliahave antihypertensive potentials
Meat has long been known for its nutritive composition which could explain why it is being consum... more Meat has long been known for its nutritive composition which could explain why it is being consumed by many people worldwide. Various biochemical changes and micro-organisms are associated with meat, during the process of slaughter, processing and preservation. This work evaluated the micro-flora of selected meat and meat products. Selected meat and ready to eat meat products in calabar, cross river state- Nigeria were collected randomly and analyzed microbiologically, and isolates were identified as Staphylococcus aureus (21.43%), Escherichia coli (14.20%), Streptococcus Spp (14.29%), Salmonella Spp (14.20%), Bacillus Spp (21.43%), Pseudomonas Spp (7.14%) and Proteus Spp (7.14%). The most frequently isolated organisms were Staphylococcus Spp, Escherichia coli and Basillus Spp. The total viable count for bacterial counts ranged from1.4X105 to 2.3X105cfu/g, whereas total coliform counts ranged from 1.0X105 to 3.5X105cfu/g. The results showed that the meat products were contaminated at various stages of preparation. This calls for proper handling and hygiene at every stage of meat preparation.
The anti-nutrient contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Citrulluslanatus were evaluated. The st... more The anti-nutrient contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Citrulluslanatus were evaluated. The study was carried out on both fresh and dried samples. Results of the investigation revealed that the anti-nutritional components such as saponin, alkaloid, hydrocyanic acid, phenols, oxalate, tannins, phytates were detected in all the samples but at a varying tolerable concentration. However, other anti-nutrient constituents were in small insignificant amount in all the parts of the fruit investigated. Although there were significant difference (p< 0.05) in the anti-nutrient compounds in the different parts of the fruit, seeds and rind which are the parts always discarded on the basis of acclaim toxicity, these can contribute immensely to recommended daily allowance and maintenance of good nutritional status and hence good health for both man and animals.
The vitamins contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Nephelium lappaceum and Cucurbita pepo’L wer... more The vitamins contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Nephelium lappaceum and Cucurbita pepo’L were evaluated. The study was carried out on both fresh and dried samples. Results of the investigation reveal that the fresh Nephelium lappaceum pulp, seed and rind were high in pro-vitamin A (carotenoid) content though lesser than those of Cucurbita pepo’L. Nephelium lappaceum pulp was superior in ascorbic acid compared with other parts. However, the rind of fresh Cucurbita pepo’L was also high in vitamin C compared with the seed and the pulp. Beside, the fruits were generally low in B vitamins but high in caloric value. Although there was a significant difference at (p< 0.05) in the vitamins contents in the different parts of the fruits, the vitamins in the seeds and rind which are the parts always discarded, can contribute immensely to recommended daily allowance and maintenance of good nutritional status and hence good health for both man and animals.
African Journal of Biomedical Research, Sep 30, 2019
The unconfirmed perception of herbal-based alcoholic beverages as drinks of medicinal, antimalari... more The unconfirmed perception of herbal-based alcoholic beverages as drinks of medicinal, antimalarial and aphrodisiac value have resulted in increased intake of thwisese products in many developing countries. Herein, we investigated biochemical and physiological responses in rats of some commonly consumed herbalized alcoholic beverages in Nigeria. Male Wistar rats were treated with Action bitters (AcB), Alomo bitters (ALB), Origin bitters (OrB), 1960 bitters, Local gin (LG), Local gin plus Vitamin B (LG+VtB) daily at a dose of 2.68 mL/kg bw. A control group was given distilled water. Serum biochemical parameters; cholesterol, triacylglycerol, high and low density lipoprotein (H-LDL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and electrolytes; potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl-) and bicarbonate (HCO3-) were measured after 90 days treatment. There were significant increases in serum cholesterol, triacylglycerol, H-LDL, AST, ALT, ALP, LDH and GGT in alcohol treated groups compared with control suggesting hepato-toxicity. The Levels of (K+), sodium (Na+), and bicarbonate (HCO3-) significantly decreased in treatments groups compared with control indicating negative physiological consequences on serum electrolytes including hypokalemia, hyponatremia and osmotic balance. Principal component analysis (PCA), revealed a positive relationship between LG treatment group with cholesterol, triacylglycerol, AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, and LDH) indicating that LG induced more pronounced biological effects compared with other tested alcoholic beverages. Overall, the increase in cholesterol, triacylglycerol and LDL with a corresponding decrease in HDL in treatment groups compared with control may suggest a probable mode of action and provide a mechanistic insight by which alcoholic beverages induce coronary liver and heart disease.
This study was aimed at isolating and identifying Shigella, Salmonella and Escherichia coli bacte... more This study was aimed at isolating and identifying Shigella, Salmonella and Escherichia coli bacteria associated with poultry litter obtained from the University of Mkar Community, Adekaa, Gboko central and GRA Gboko. The study also determines the antibiotic sensitivity patterns of the associated bacteria. The bacteria were isolated and identified phenotipically following standard microbiological methods. The antibiotic sensitivity patterns of the isolated bacteria tested against Septrin, Chloranphenicol, Sparfloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Amoxacillin, Augmentin, Gentamycin, Pefloxacin, Tarivid and Streptomycin. Shigella and Salmonella were completely resistant to chloranphenicol, augmentin, pefloxacin, amoxicillin. Shigella were also resistant to all the antibiotics excepts Septrin and ciprofloxacin showed they are intermediate to the drugs. Percentage antibiotics susceptibility pattern of gram negative bacteria isolated from poultry litter showed all bacterial isolates (100%) were resistant to Chloranphenicol while most of the isolates were susceptible to Amoxacillin. All the bacterial isolates showed high level (10.2 MAR index) antibiotic resistance. The study found that there was close (R= .516) association between the isolates and antibiotics. There was also significant relationship (X 2 = 5.871) between isolates and occurrence at different sample sites. The study therefore recommends proper information dissemination to farmers and poultry feeds producers on dangers of antibiotic resistant strains, use of Probiotics in animal feeds to prevent gastro-intestinal infections and use of regulations to control poultry litter disposal.
The glycemic index (GI) provides a measure of how quickly blood sugar levels (i.e. levels of gluc... more The glycemic index (GI) provides a measure of how quickly blood sugar levels (i.e. levels of glucose in the blood) rise after eating a particular type of food. In this study, the glycemic index and glycemic load of certain root tuber foods (yam, potato, and cassava) in both diabetic and non-diabetic conditions were compared. Glucose with a glycemic index of 100 was used as reference. The comparative studies showed the glycemic indices for cassava flour (59.34±32.42 and 40.12±25.27) respectively for diabetic and healthy subjects was significantly higher (p<0.05) than that of yam flour (49.81±10.38 and 35.50±11.71) for diabetic and healthy subjects. The glycemic index for baked sweet potato (94.80±8.01) was significantly higher (p<0.05) than roasted (82.01±5.20), fried (76.01±7.10) and boiled (46.00±5.89), for the same root tuber.
The medicinal value of any plant derives largely from its endowed chemical substances responsible... more The medicinal value of any plant derives largely from its endowed chemical substances responsible for the observed pharmacological action(s). The present study therefore, evaluated the distribution of these constituents viz: phytochemicals, proximate composition and vitamin content of the stem and root bark of Nauclea latifolia. The result revealed the presence of relatively high amounts of antioxidant vitamins (mg/100g
The nutritional quality of pulp, seeds and rind of Citrullus lanatus, was evaluated. The study wa... more The nutritional quality of pulp, seeds and rind of Citrullus lanatus, was evaluated. The study was carried out on both fresh and dried samples. Results of the investigation reveal that Citrullus lanatus rind was superior to Citrullus lanatus Pulp, seed. Citrullus lanatus pulp,seed and rind were low in their pro-vitamin A (carotenoid) though that of the rind was higher compared with other parts of the fruit. More so, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) content of the rind and seed were significantly (p< 0.05) lower compared with the pulp. Beside, the fruits generally were low in B vitamins. Although there was a significant difference at (p< 0.05) in the nutrient contents in the different parts of the fruits, the nutrients in the seeds and rind which are the parts always discarded, can contribute immensely to recommended daily allowance and maintenance of good nutritional status and hence good health for both man and animals.
Oxidative stress and oxidative damage to tissues are involved in the path physiology of many dise... more Oxidative stress and oxidative damage to tissues are involved in the path physiology of many diseases. Many occupations, most especially crafts are associated with the generation of high levels of free radicals and hence increased post-oxidant level. This study evaluated the serum level of Superoxide dismutase, Malondealdehyde and uric acid of artisans in Cross-River State, Nigeria. The results reveals that the SOD level in all the artisans did not show any significant change at P<0.05. However, MDA level in mechanics (4.53±0.25), Welders (4.42±0.20) and spray painter (4.00±0.06) where all significantly lower when compared with the control (3.14±0.09) at P≤0.05, thus indicating increased per oxidation but the reveres was the case for carpenters where no change was observed compared with the control. More so, determination of uric acid level showed that mechanics (2.71± 0.31), welders (3.98±0.22), Battery repairers (3.40±0.37) marked significance difference compared with control (5.86±0.28) though similar trend was seen in carpenters (5.72±0.20) and spray painters (4.22±0.25). All groups of artisans were compared with the control at P≤0.05 lev el of probability. Thus, this work has opened up the occupational hazard associated craft Men or artisans and the possible health implications associated with their jobs and hence recommend more safety guides and increased anti-oxidant nutrients consumptions.
In this study, the phytochemical constituents of Ereromastax speciosa and ereromatax polysperma l... more In this study, the phytochemical constituents of Ereromastax speciosa and ereromatax polysperma leaves was investigated. These leaves are commonly used amongst traditional birth attendants in the rural regions of calabar cross river state and akwa ibom state, Nigeria. In this study, experienced traditional birth attendants from the local regions in cross river and akwaibom were orally interviewed about the use of these herbs in enhancing fertility. Claims have been made by these traditional birth attendants on the efficacy of these plants for the treatment of internal heat, arresting of post partum bleeding, other reproductive complications like retention of placenta, enhancing of fertility in infertile females. Quantitative phytochemical analysis of these leaves were determined using the methods described by Harborne [1], including the method of Swain[2] for the determination of tannins , Spectrophotometric method of Brunner [3] for the determination of saponnins, Folin-Ciocalteau reagent method[4], for the determination of polyphenols, has revealed the presence of bioactive components in varying quantities. Results on phytochemical analysis on Ereromastax polysperma and Ereromastax speciosa respectively showed the presence of Tannins(15.00±0.00 and 45.00±0.00),
The comparative effects of coartem, quinine and quinine rich drinks on the spermatogenic indices ... more The comparative effects of coartem, quinine and quinine rich drinks on the spermatogenic indices were evaluated in male Wistar rats. Results of the sperm indices revealed that coartem and quinine treatments had the highest percentage of sperm cells with abnormalities compared to the control. Those of other treatments showed no significant (p>0.05 and p>0.001) changes. The abnormalities ranged from tailless head, bent tail, curved tail, bent mid piece and rudimental tail to looped tail. The sperm motility results showed that treatment with soda water and quinine had significantly (p<0.05 and p<0.001) high percentage of non-motile sperm cells relative to control. More so, quinine treatment recorded significantly (p<0.05) lower number of sperm cells while other treatments showed no significant changes relative to control.
The effect of activity directed fractions of vernonia amygdalina on the levels of urea, uric acid... more The effect of activity directed fractions of vernonia amygdalina on the levels of urea, uric acid; total and conjugated bilirubin in wistar albino rats during acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity was investigated in this research. The forty-eight (48) wistar albino rats used were divided into 8 groups of six rats each. Group one, the normal control group received distilled water, group two received only paracetamol throughout the experimental period. Groups three to eight were administered with 171.43mg/kg body weight of paracetamol and treated with 200mg/kg body weight of activity directed fractions of vernonia amygdalina throughout the 14 days of treatment. Result shows significantly lower levels (p<0.05) of uric acid in the paracetamol, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol, methanol and residue E treated fractions compared to the normal control. However, the benzene fraction had a higher uric acid level (p<0.05) compared to the normal control. Urea levels significantly increased (p<0.05) in groups treated with fractions of chloroform and residue E while it significantly decreased (p<0.05) in the butanol treated group over the normal control group. Total bilirubin levels were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the treatment groups compared to the normal control. Whereas, the conjugated bilirubin level was non-significantly higher (p>0.05) than the normal control, the levels were significantly higher (p<0.05) in groups treated with fractions of benzene and butanol compared with the normal control levels, levels of conjugated bilirubin were non significantly higher (p>0.05) in chloroform and residue E treated groups when compared with the normal control. Non-significantly higher levels (p>0.05) of conjugated bilirubin were observed in all treated groups except the ethyl acetate fraction group compared to the paracetamol group. Vernonia amygdalina fractions have the ability to protect against acetaminophen induced liver damage coupled with antioxidative potentials. This suggests that vernonia amygdalina is suitable for the treatment of acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity.
Indigenous medicinal plants have great medicinal potentials, as they have been used and are still... more Indigenous medicinal plants have great medicinal potentials, as they have been used and are still in use for the management of several ailments and as nutritional supplements. The medicinal efficacy of medicinal plants is highly depended on the method of extraction or extract preparation. The present study evaluates the preparation of crude extracts from the root bark and stem bark of three plants with medicinal potentials – Vernonia amygdalina, Nauclea latifolia and Gongronema latifolium – using 80% ethanol as solvent and standard laboratory equipment. The result showed a high (%) yield of 13.6 and 11.96 respectively for root bark and stem bark of Vernonia amygdalina, 10.75 and 10.01 respectively for root bark and stem bark of Gongronema latifolium and 19.90 and 18.30 respectively for root and stem bark of Nauclea latifolia. These extracts were used for various analysis such as proximate and phytochemicals and the results agreed with those of the extracts of the same plants using other standard methods. Also, the extracts were used for toxicity, anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive screening and were found to be of high efficacy.
The effect of treatment with activity directed fractions of Vernonia amygdalina during acetaminop... more The effect of treatment with activity directed fractions of Vernonia amygdalina during acetaminophen - induced hepatotoxicity in wistar albino rats for 14 days was investigated. The 48 wistar albino rats used were divided into 8 groups of 6 rats each. Group 1 served as the normal control group and received only distilled water. Group 2 served as paracetamol control group and received only paracetamol. Groups 3-8 were treated with acetaminophen and activity directed fractions of Vernonia amygdalina. The extracts were obtained by fractionation of the crude ethanolic extract using organic solvents of increasing polarities. Paracetamol was administered at a dose of 171.41mg/kg and the fractions of vernonia amygdalina at 200mg/kg. At the end of the treatment with fractions of benzene, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol, methanol and residue E produced varying results in the level of total protein, albumin and globulin. Results obtained shows a significant decrease (P 0.05) in groups treated with fractions of vernonia amygdalina due to liver dysfunction. From the result significantly increased globulin levels (g/dl) in groups treated with residue E, methanol, and chloroform as well as increased total protein levels in the residue E , methanol, butanol, ethyl acetate , chloroform and butanol groups compared to the paracetamol group is indicative of the fact that the hepatoprotective principles of vernonia amygdalina may reside in these fractions.
Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health pr... more Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health problem in developed countries. It is common, asymptomatic, readily detectable, usually easily managed and usually leads to lethal complications if left unmanaged. This study evaluates the body and organ weights changes of hypertensive rats gavaged with ethanolic root and stem bark extracts of Nauclealatifolia. The stem extract produced a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the relative liver weight in the group treated with 300mg/Kg body weight of stem extract, compared to the normal control. There was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg body weight of stem extract and that of the standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the body weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of stem extract, compared to the hypertensive control. Also, there was a significant decrease (P< 0.05) between the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of root extract and that of standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. The body weight of rats treated with 150mg/Kg and 300mg/Kg body weight of root extract were also significantly increased (P < 0.05) compared to the hypertensive control.These changes showed that N. latifoliahave antihypertensive potentials
The effect of chronic consumption of red palm oil on organs weight and certain biochemical parame... more The effect of chronic consumption of red palm oil on organs weight and certain biochemical parameters in albino wistar rats was evaluated. The design consisted of 5 study groups of 8 rats each. Group A were fed on rat chow supplemented with 10% oxidized palm oil, group B received rat chow supplement with 10% freshly prepared palm oil, while group C were fed on rat chow supplemented with 20% oxidized palm oil, group D were fed with rat chow supplemented with 20% freshly prepared palm oil and only rat pellets were given to group E which served as the control. The feeding lasted for a period of three months (90 days) after which blood and tissues were obtained for evaluation of organs weight and certain biochemical indices. Results of organ weight shows that the organ weight of group B recorded significant (p < 0.05) increase while those of group A, B and D showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease when compared with the control. The serum urea results of group A and B were significantly (p < 0.05) higher while group C and D were significantly (p < 0.05) lower when compared with control. However, the serum albumin level of group B, C and D were significantly (p < 0.05) lower compared with the control while that of group A showed no significant change. Moreso, statistical evaluation reveals that the serum creatinine levels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in group 4 while those of other groups compared well with control. No significant changes was observed for total protein except for group C which was significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared with control.
Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health pr... more Hypertension is a relatively common disorder that is probably the most important public health problem in developed countries. It is common, asymptomatic, readily detectable, usually easily managed and usually leads to lethal complications if left unmanaged. This study evaluates the body and organ weights changes of hypertensive rats gavaged with ethanolic root and stem bark extracts of Nauclealatifolia. The stem extract produced a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the relative liver weight in the group treated with 300mg/Kg body weight of stem extract, compared to the normal control. There was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg body weight of stem extract and that of the standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the body weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of stem extract, compared to the hypertensive control. Also, there was a significant decrease (P< 0.05) between the relative heart weight of rats treated with 150mg/kg of root extract and that of standard (Captopril) treated, compared to the normal control. The body weight of rats treated with 150mg/Kg and 300mg/Kg body weight of root extract were also significantly increased (P < 0.05) compared to the hypertensive control.These changes showed that N. latifoliahave antihypertensive potentials
Meat has long been known for its nutritive composition which could explain why it is being consum... more Meat has long been known for its nutritive composition which could explain why it is being consumed by many people worldwide. Various biochemical changes and micro-organisms are associated with meat, during the process of slaughter, processing and preservation. This work evaluated the micro-flora of selected meat and meat products. Selected meat and ready to eat meat products in calabar, cross river state- Nigeria were collected randomly and analyzed microbiologically, and isolates were identified as Staphylococcus aureus (21.43%), Escherichia coli (14.20%), Streptococcus Spp (14.29%), Salmonella Spp (14.20%), Bacillus Spp (21.43%), Pseudomonas Spp (7.14%) and Proteus Spp (7.14%). The most frequently isolated organisms were Staphylococcus Spp, Escherichia coli and Basillus Spp. The total viable count for bacterial counts ranged from1.4X105 to 2.3X105cfu/g, whereas total coliform counts ranged from 1.0X105 to 3.5X105cfu/g. The results showed that the meat products were contaminated at various stages of preparation. This calls for proper handling and hygiene at every stage of meat preparation.
The anti-nutrient contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Citrulluslanatus were evaluated. The st... more The anti-nutrient contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Citrulluslanatus were evaluated. The study was carried out on both fresh and dried samples. Results of the investigation revealed that the anti-nutritional components such as saponin, alkaloid, hydrocyanic acid, phenols, oxalate, tannins, phytates were detected in all the samples but at a varying tolerable concentration. However, other anti-nutrient constituents were in small insignificant amount in all the parts of the fruit investigated. Although there were significant difference (p< 0.05) in the anti-nutrient compounds in the different parts of the fruit, seeds and rind which are the parts always discarded on the basis of acclaim toxicity, these can contribute immensely to recommended daily allowance and maintenance of good nutritional status and hence good health for both man and animals.
The vitamins contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Nephelium lappaceum and Cucurbita pepo’L wer... more The vitamins contents of the pulp, seeds and rind of Nephelium lappaceum and Cucurbita pepo’L were evaluated. The study was carried out on both fresh and dried samples. Results of the investigation reveal that the fresh Nephelium lappaceum pulp, seed and rind were high in pro-vitamin A (carotenoid) content though lesser than those of Cucurbita pepo’L. Nephelium lappaceum pulp was superior in ascorbic acid compared with other parts. However, the rind of fresh Cucurbita pepo’L was also high in vitamin C compared with the seed and the pulp. Beside, the fruits were generally low in B vitamins but high in caloric value. Although there was a significant difference at (p< 0.05) in the vitamins contents in the different parts of the fruits, the vitamins in the seeds and rind which are the parts always discarded, can contribute immensely to recommended daily allowance and maintenance of good nutritional status and hence good health for both man and animals.