Journal of Biomedical Investigation
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description: The Journal of Biomedical Investigation (JBI) is a publication of the Biomedical Research Association of Nigeria (BRAN) of the College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The journal seeks to promote interdisciplinary research across all Biomedical Sciences. It publishes original articles, case studies, reviews and short communications in the field of medical sciences, clinical laboratory and experimental medicine, and related fields (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Nursing, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Physiotherapy, Radiography, and Medical Rehabilitation, Clinical Pharmacy, Psychology, etc). The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editorial board but of individual authors. The Editorial board of Journal of Biomedical Investigation (JBI) appreciates those who subscribe to the journal, reviewers and the consulting editors for their contributions. Authors are to send their articles through biomedicalinvestigation@journals.unizik.edu.ng
publisher: Biomedical Research Association of Nigeria (BRAN) of the College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
language: en
publication name: Journal of Biomedical Investigation
issn: 1597-0043
items: https://journals.unizik.edu.ng/jbi/article/view/8662
items: REVIEW OF LABORATORY BIOMARKERS OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
items: EVALUATION OF TRANSAMINASE ACTIVITIES IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETIC NEPHROPATHY
items: AFRICAN’S GROWING CONTRIBUTION TO ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUG RESISTANCE RESEARCH: BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF 2004 TO 2024
items: EYE HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIOUR OF SAWMILL WORKERS IN ONITSHA, NIGERIA
items: PREVALENCE AND PATTERNS OF MUSCLE STRAIN INJURIES AMONG AMATEUR MALE FOOTBALLERS IN NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
items: ESTIMATION OF CHOLESTEROL AND URIC ACID LEVEL IN MENOPAUSE
items: PREVALENCE OF LOW BACK PAIN AND AWARENESS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY INTERVENTIONS AMONG WELDERS IN NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
items: PREVALENCE OF EYE DISEASES AMONG WELDERS IN ONITSHA, NIGERIA
items: EFFECT OF A SIX-WEEK SUPERVISED AXILLARY CRUTCH WALKING PROGRAM ON SELECTED PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN PATIENTS WITH LOWER LIMB FRACTURES IN ENUGU, NIGERIA
items: PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL, PERCEIVED BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS AMONG WOMEN IN NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE
items: MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION AND MULTI-DRUG-RESISTANT PROFILES OF UROPATHOGENIC ESCHERICHIA COLI FROM ADULTS ATTENDING NATIONAL ORTHOPEDIC HOSPITAL ENUGU, NIGERIA
items: CORRELATION OF SERUM MYOGENIN WITH DISEASE SEVERITY IN SUBJECTS WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE IN STEADY STATE
items: KNOWLEDGE AND COPING STRATEGIES FOR OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN UMUAHIA, NIGERIA
items: COMPARISON OF LIQUID BACTEC MGIT 960 AND SOLID LOWENSTEIN-JENSEN CULTURE FOR DETECTION OF MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS IN CLINICAL SAMPLES AT ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA
items: ASSOCIATION BETWEEN FASTING BLOOD GLUCOSE AND LIPID PROFILE STATUS AMONG NEWLY-DIAGNOSED TYPE 2 DIABETICS OF THE THREE MAJOR ETHNIC GROUPS IN NIGERIA
items: ASSESSMENT OF DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY OF CLINICAL EXAMINATION AND ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN DETECTING BREAST CANCER IN KIGALI REFERRAL HOSPITALS
items: ENDING MATERNAL AND NEONATAL TETANUS IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH BY 2030: A ONE HEALTH PERSPECTIVE ON ELIMINATION STRATEGIES
items: ETHICAL ISSUES IN HUMAN AND ANIMAL RESEARCH: A Review
items: THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF LASER THERAPY AND TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION IN CHRONICALLY INFECTED WOUNDS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
items: CORRELATION BETWEEN GLYCATED HEMOGLOBIN AND LIPID PROFILE STATUS AMONG NEWLY-DIAGNOSED TYPE 2 DIABETICS OF INDIVIDUALS OF THREE ETHNIC GROUPS IN SOKOTO, NIGERIA
items: SONOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF FOETAL LIVER VOLUME CHANGES IN PREECLAMPSIA
items: PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS OF TRICHOMONIASIS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN RECEIVING ANTENATAL CARE IN AMAC, FCT ABUJA, NIGERIA
items: PREVALENCE AND PATTERN OF WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN OVIA NORTH EAST, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE, NIGERIA
items: ASSESSMENT OF MICROBIAL AND PARASITIC CONTAMINATION ON NIGERIAN CURRENCY NOTES AT NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA NIGERIA
items: PREVALENCE OF FOOT PAIN AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG FINAL YEAR CLINICAL STUDENTS AT UNIVERSITY OF BENIN, EDO STATE, NIGERIA
items: COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF GROUNDNUT OIL AND PALM OIL ON LIPID PROFILE OF ADULT WISTAR RATS
items: GENDER MICROAGGRESSIONS: PREVALENCE AND IMPACT ON FEMALE HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN NIGERIA
items: MOLECULAR EVALUATION OF CHLAMYDIA TRACHOMATIS AND NEISSERIA GONORRHOEAE INFECTIONS AND THEIR CO-INFECTION AMONG WOMEN WITH INFERTILITY ISSUES AT GYNEACOLOGICAL CLINICS IN ADO – EKITI, NIGERIA
items: RELEVANCE OF URINE RAPID TEST IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF MALARIA AMONG FEBRILE CHILDREN AGED 1-10 YEARS IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

https://journals.unizik.edu.ng/jbi/article/view/8662
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title: KNOWLEDGE, ATITTUDES AND PRACTICES (KAP) OF MOTHERS/CARE GIVERS CONCERNING THE MANAGEMENT OF MALARIA IN CHILDREN AGED 5-17 YEARS AT NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE NIGERIA
description: Background: Malaria in children is of great public health importance. The role of mothers/care givers in the management and control of malaria in children cannot be over emphasized. Aim: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of Mothers/care givers concerning the management and control of malaria infection in children aged 5-17 years. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive; cross- sectional study.156 mothers/care givers who visited Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital with their children aged 5-17 years were randomly recruited. A structured questionnaire was interviewer- administered to capture information on biodata and level of awareness of certain aspects of malaria management and control. Results: Majority (86.5%) of the participants were fully aware that malaria was caused by mosquito bites. Most of the participants (82.7%) were aware that insecticide treated bed nets (ITNs) were used to prevent malaria infection but only a few of them (19.2%) actually used ITNs regularly. A reasonable fraction of the participants (14.7%) never owned or used ITNs. Most of the participants who did not use ITNs said that it caused excessive heat and made sleep uncomfortable while a very little fraction (1.3%) claimed that ITN disturbed their sleep at night. About hospital seeking habit, 17.9% of the mothers/care givers visited hospital each time their children felt sick while the majority (82.3%) did otherwise. Conclusion/recommendation: The study concludes that whereas the knowledge of mothers/care givers was high, the attitudes and practices were poor probably due to misconceptions which were real or imaginary. Health education needs to be intensified to improve the situation and promote the health of the children.
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creator: C.P Igweagu
creator: L.N Madu
creator: S.N Ukibe
creator: I.S Anagor
creator: D.C Onyido
creator: I.M Anagboso
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 228
ending page: 237

REVIEW OF LABORATORY BIOMARKERS OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
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description: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a cluster of chronic, immune–related and long–term disorders that cause fever, abdominal pain/cramping, fatigue, severe and recurrent diarrhoea, rectal bleeding and weight loss, and characterised by inflammation of gastrointestinal tract (GIT), is categorised as crohn’s disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC) or IBD unclassified (IBDU). Assessing the diagnosis, severity and monitoring of IBD is largely based on the combined effects of clinical presentations, endoscopy, radiology, histology and laboratory biomarkers. Some laboratory biomarkers of IBD such as C–reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), platelets etc are associated with systemic and gastrointestinal inflammation or disease activity, i.e., active or quiescent IBD. Others are linked to genetic predisposition, e.g., autophagy genes, nucleotide–binding oligomerization domain–containing protein 2 (NOD2), interleukin–23 receptor (IL23R) etc, correlated with the neoplastic transformation, e.g., M2–pyruvate kinase, miRNAs, mucosal chitinase–3–like protein 1 (CH13L1) etc, and coupled to drug metabolism in relation to therapeutic intervention e.g., Thiopurine Methyltransferase (TPMT) and 6–Thioguanine Nucleotide (6TGN). There are also those such as anti–neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs), and anti–saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCAs) that are related to the type of IBD, i.e., either CD, UC or IBDU. This review summarises the characterisation of laboratory biomarkers of IBD including a narrative on their future perspectives from the standpoint of diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring the disease course and a practical algorithm for the practical application of these biomarkers in the assessment of IBD.
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creator: M. M Udegbune
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 195
ending page: 227

EVALUATION OF TRANSAMINASE ACTIVITIES IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETIC NEPHROPATHY
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description: Background: Nephrotic syndrome and widespread glomerulosclerosis are the hallmarks of diabetic nephropathy, a progressive kidney disease brought on by angiopathy of capillaries in the kidney glomeruli. Aim: Thhis study aimed to assess the activity of transaminases, specifically alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), in patients with diabetic nephropathy. Materials and Methods: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity were measured in patients with diabetic nephropathy, diabetes mellitus (without nephropathy), and control participants who appeared to be in good health. A total of 150 participants were involved in this study. Three groups of 50 patients each who had diabetes mellitus, diabetic nephropathy, and control subjects who appeared to be in good health. The Reitman and Frankel technique of analysis was used to measure ALT and AST activity. Results: Diabetic nephropathy was associated with a substantial increase in enzyme activity above the control value (P<0.05). While ALT activity was not significant [ALT (P>0.05)], diabetes mellitus was also associated with a little increase in AST activity above the control value. Patients with diabetic nephropathy had mean ALT and AST activity that was statistically significant (P<0.05) when compared to patients with diabetes mellitus who did not have nephropathy. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that both ALT and AST levels were significantly elevated in patients with diabetic nephropathy and diabetes mellitus compared with control subjects.
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creator: C. U Obi
creator: F. A Ehiaghe
creator: A. C. Ihim
creator: C. E Onah
creator: O. C Ugwunna
creator: I. V Obi
creator: A Okikioluwa
creator: I. N Agbiogwu
creator: I. J Onuora
creator: B Ben-Anioke
creator: C Ejike
creator: V. C Odo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 185
ending page: 194

AFRICAN’S GROWING CONTRIBUTION TO ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUG RESISTANCE RESEARCH: BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF 2004 TO 2024
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description: Background: The threat of antiretroviral drug resistance developing and spreading is of greater public health importance as antiretroviral therapy is scaled up. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the growing contribution to Africa's antiretroviral drug resistance Research. Materials and Methods: This investigation presents a bibliometric analysis of all research articles on antiretroviral drug resistance published from May, 2004 to May 2024, indexed in the PubMed database. Result: The overall number of articles published was 1,601 papers, which has an average annual productivity of 123.15. South Africa accounted for the highest productive outputs with the total number of publications of 216, followed by the Switzerland (n = 56), Uganda (n = 52), Kenya (n = 18), Zimbabwe (n = 18), Netherlands (n = 15), Cameroon (n = 12), Botswana (n = 10), Malawi (n = 10), Zambia (n = 6), Ethiopia 6 (n = 6), and Nigeria (n = 5). Since 2015, publications on ARV Drug Resistance Research have fluctuated, with the highest number in 2020. Following that trend, the number of productive outputs dramatically reduced from 2021 to 2024. The University of Cape Town, South Africa, emerged as the leading institution in ARV Drug Resistance Research. In Nigeria, ARV Drug Resistance Research is the least prolific. Conclusion: The overall trend in this field is characterized as decreasing yet evolving. This suggests that while fewer studies are being published overall, the focus of the research is shifting, likely toward these previously understudied areas rather than repeating established research.
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creator: S. O Azi
creator: I. O Oshim
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 155
ending page: 184

EYE HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIOUR OF SAWMILL WORKERS IN ONITSHA, NIGERIA
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description: Background: A hazard of sawmilling is ocular affliction which may eventuate in visual impairment. The visual loss could be ameliorated if eye care is sought early. But timeous treatment is a function of eye health-seeking behaviour of the afflicted. Aim: To determine the eye health-seeking behaviour of sawmill workers in Onitsha, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Consenting adult male sawmill workers at Onitsha, selected by simple random sampling were studied using pre-tested a questionnaire on eye disease symptoms, and eye health-seeking behaviour. Examination included visual acuity assessment, external eye examination, refraction, and ophthalmoscopy. Results: Eighty-five sawmill workers with an age range 18 – 61 years; median – 42 years participated; 50 (58.8%) were self-employed. Eighty (94.1%) had symptoms of eye disease. Tearing, 75 (88.2%), and foreign body sensation, 62 (72.9%), were the common symptoms. Sixty-five (76.5%) participants sought eye care only when they consider the symptoms serious; 20 (23.5%) never did. Self-medication, [58 (68.2%)] and consulting traditional healers, [9 (10.6%)] were popular practice. Cost of treatment, [58 (68.2%)] and a feeling that the symptom was not serious, [44 (51.8%)] were the commonest barriers. Conclusions: The eye health-seeking behaviour of this cohort of sawmill workers is poor. Treatment cost and not taking eye disease symptoms were the two most important barriers to seeking eye care. To improve the eye health-seeking behaviour of these workers, subscribing to health insurance scheme and eye health education are recommended.
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creator: J. U Umeh
creator: S. N. N Nwosu
creator: A. A Onyiaorah
creator: C. U Uba-Obiano
creator: A. C Ezenwa
creator: N. E Okpala
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 148
ending page: 154

PREVALENCE AND PATTERNS OF MUSCLE STRAIN INJURIES AMONG AMATEUR MALE FOOTBALLERS IN NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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description: Background: Lower limb muscle strain injuries represent a significant burden in amateur football, yet epidemiological data from Nigerian community settings remain limited. Aim: This study determined the prevalence, anatomical patterns, and factors associated with lower limb muscle strain injuries among amateur male footballers in Okofia, Nnewi, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 173 amateur male football players at the College of Health Sciences, Okofia, Nnewi. Participants were recruited using simple consecutive sampling. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, football participation history, injury characteristics, circumstances, management, and prevention practices were collected via a validated structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics summarized the data; chi-square tests examined associations between injury severity and selected factors at the P<0.05 level of significance. Results: The mean age of participants was 22.94 ± 3.33 years. The prevalence of lower limb muscle strain injuries was 58.4% (101/173). The most commonly affected sites were the thigh (12.1%) and hamstring (12.1%), followed by the calf (11.6%), knee (9.8%), ankle (7.5%), and groin (5.2%). Injuries occurred more frequently during competitions (32.9%) than during training (25.4%). Perceived causes included fatigue (13.9%), overtraining (12.1%), poor warm-up (9.8%), and sudden movements or sprinting (8.1%). Most players (86.1%) believed injuries were preventable, and 74.6% reported regular post-activity stretching. Significant associations (p < 0.001) were found between injury severity and history of injury, injury site, number of previous injuries, time since last injury, circumstance of injury, perceived cause, and performance impact. No significant associations were observed with training frequency (p = 0.874), training duration (p = 0.074), or warm-up practice (p = 0.574). Conclusion: Lower limb muscle strain injuries, particularl…
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creator: V. A Egwuonwu
creator: D. C Ugwuanyi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 136
ending page: 147

ESTIMATION OF CHOLESTEROL AND URIC ACID LEVEL IN MENOPAUSE
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description: Background: Menopause is a natural physiological process characterized by the permanent cessation of menstruation resulting from the loss of ovarian follicular activity. It commonly occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years and is associated with progressive hormonal and metabolic changes, particularly a decline in oestrogen production. These hormonal alterations may significantly affect lipid and purine metabolism, thereby increasing the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Aim: This study was designed to evaluate serum cholesterol and uric acid levels in postmenopausal women and compare them with those of premenopausal women in order to determine whether the observed changes are associated with menopause or aging. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out involving 100 postmenopausal women aged 45–78 years and 50 apparently healthy premenopausal women aged 20–45 years who served as controls. Serum cholesterol levels were determined using the enzymatic cholesterol oxidase-peroxidase method, while uric acid was estimated using the uricase-peroxidase method. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test with level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The results showed that serum cholesterol and uric acid levels were significantly higher in postmenopausal women compared with premenopausal controls (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were observed when menopausal women were stratified according to age groups (p > 0.05). Similarly, no significant age-related differences were observed among the control group. Conclusion: menopause significantly influences serum cholesterol and uric acid levels due to hormonal changes associated with oestrogen deficiency. Regular monitoring of these biochemical parameters, together with lifestyle modifications such as healthy diet, physical activity, and weight management, is recommended for postmenopausal women.
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creator: C. U Obi
creator: A. C Ihim
creator: F. A Ehiaghe
creator: C. E Onah
creator: O. C Ugwunna
creator: I. V Obi
creator: A Okikioluwa
creator: I. N Agbiogwu
creator: I. J Onuora
creator: B Ben-Anioke
creator: C Ejike
creator: V. C Odo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 127
ending page: 135

PREVALENCE OF LOW BACK PAIN AND AWARENESS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY INTERVENTIONS AMONG WELDERS IN NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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description: Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a major occupational health problem among workers in physically demanding jobs. Welders are particularly susceptible due to prolonged bending, awkward postures, and heavy lifting. Despite the established effectiveness of physiotherapy in managing musculoskeletal disorders, awareness and utilization of physiotherapy services remain critically low among informal sector workers in Nigeria. Aim: This study investigated the prevalence of LBP and assessed whether welders in Nnewi North Local Government Area (L.G.A.), Anambra State, were aware of physiotherapy interventions. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 67 male welders (mean age 34.25 ± 7.79 years) selected via purposive sampling. Data were collected using the Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ; Cronbach's α = 0.79) and a structured Awareness of Physiotherapy Questionnaire (adapted from Maruf et al., 2012; Cronbach's α = 0.81). Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and inferential statistics (Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests) were used for analysis (α ≤ 0.05). Results: The 12-month prevalence of LBP was 53.7%, with 40.3% reporting activity limitation due to pain. Only 13.4% of respondents were aware of physiotherapy, with family/friends as the exclusive source of information (100%). Among the nine respondents who were aware, none demonstrated any knowledge of what physiotherapy involves or the conditions it manages. A statistically significant association was found between experiencing LBP and awareness of physiotherapy (χ² = 7.10, p = 0.008). Conclusion: LBP is highly prevalent among welders in Nnewi North L.G.A., yet awareness of physiotherapy interventions is critically low. Awareness is predominantly reactive, arising from personal pain experience rather than structured occupational health education. Targeted outreach and integration of physiotherapy into primary and occupational healthcare services are …
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creator: V. A Egwuonwu
creator: D. C Ugwuanyi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 117
ending page: 126

PREVALENCE OF EYE DISEASES AMONG WELDERS IN ONITSHA, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Welders are prone to radiation, mechanical and chemical eye injuries which could cause visual loss. Information on the prevalence of ocular disorders among welders is essential for planning eye care services. Aim: To determine the prevalence of eye diseases among welders in Onitsha, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Eligible welders at Bridge Head Market Onitsha, selected by simple random sampling, had ophthalmic assessment using a pre-tested questionnaire, visual acuity assessment, external eye examination, refraction, and ophthalmoscopy. Results: Two hundred and five adult male welders, aged 18 – 70 years, median - 42 years, were studied. Job experience was 6 months - 35 years, median - 15 years; 70 (34.1%) participants were married. All the participants complained of having had at least one eye disease symptom; light sensitivity, 80 (39.0%), and ocular pains, 62 (30.2%) were the commonest symptoms. Ninety four (45.9%) were diagnosed with ocular disorders; allergic conjunctivitis, 40 (42.5%) and pterygium, 24 (25.5%), ametropia, 12 (12.8%), were the commonest disorders. No participant was bilaterally blind but 13 (6.3%) had monocular blindness caused by corneal opacity, 6 (2.9%), cataract, 4 (2.0%), glaucoma, 2 (1.0), and pterygium, 1 (0.5%). Twenty-nine (14.1%) had moderate low vision and 30 (14.6%), severe low vision in the better eyes. Conclusion: The prevalence of eye diseases, low vision and monocular blindness among the welders are high but the causes are avoidable. Eye health education for welders is recommended.
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creator: C. O Ezebilie
creator: S. N. N Nwosu
creator: C. U Uba-Obiano
creator: A. A Onyiaorah
creator: A. C Ezenwa
creator: N. E Okpala
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 110
ending page: 116

EFFECT OF A SIX-WEEK SUPERVISED AXILLARY CRUTCH WALKING PROGRAM ON SELECTED PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN PATIENTS WITH LOWER LIMB FRACTURES IN ENUGU, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Axillary crutches are commonly prescribed for patients with lower limb fractures to facilitate protected ambulation. Although crutch-assisted gait increases acute metabolic and cardiovascular demand, its longitudinal physiological effects remain unclear. This study investigated whether a six-week supervised axillary crutch walking program would produce measurable changes in selected physiological parameters compared with usual care. Methods: A randomized pretest–posttest-controlled trial was conducted at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria. Forty-five patients with lower limb fractures (22 males, 23 females) prescribed axillary crutches were randomized to an experimental group (n = 29), which received supervised crutch walking training three times weekly for six weeks, or a control group (n = 16), which received usual physiotherapy care. Outcome measures included resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure, resting heart rate, estimated VO₂max (derived from resting heart rate), and percentage body fat measured via bioelectrical impedance. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare post-intervention outcomes while adjusting for baseline values (p < 0.05). Results: No statistically significant between-group differences were observed after six weeks. Resting systolic blood pressure (F = 0.363, p = 0.64), diastolic blood pressure (F = 2.153, p = 0.15), resting heart rate (F = 0.96, p = 0.758), estimated VO₂max (F = 0.2, p = 0.65), and percentage body fat (F = 0.4, p = 0.5) showed no significant group effects. Conclusion: The six-week supervised axillary crutch walking program did not produce significant cardiovascular or body composition adaptations beyond usual physiotherapy care in patients with lower limb fractures.
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creator: A. A Amaeze
creator: F. N Amaeze
creator: A. A Igwe
creator: R. C Agoha
creator: C. N Ibe
creator: P. A Awhen
creator: J. O Umunnah
creator: I. V Obi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 102
ending page: 109

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL, PERCEIVED BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS AMONG WOMEN IN NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE
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description: Background: Physical inactivity is a major public health concern and a significant risk factor for non-communicable diseases, particularly among women in low- and middle-income countries where sociocultural and environmental demands may limit physical activity participation. Aim: This study assessed the levels of physical activity, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers to physical activity among adult women residing in Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study design involving 400 adult women selected from the four quarters of Nnewi was adopted. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF) assessed physical activity level, while the Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale (EBBS) assessed perceived benefits and barriers. Data was summarized using frequency counts, charts, mean and standard deviation while the Kruskal-Wallis test was used for analysis at the <0.05 level of significance. Results: The mean age of participants was 30.77±11.15 years. Participants demonstrated high perceived exercise benefits (mean score 89.12±20.05) and moderate perceived barriers (36.10±9.15). Modal reported walking and moderate physical activity duration was less than 30 minutes to 1 hour. Respondents who reported the highest sitting period also recorded the highest benefits (p=0.003) yet more barriers to walking (p<0.001). Conclusions: Women in Nnewi exhibit favourable perceptions of exercise benefits but relatively low engagement in vigorous physical activity, with notable barriers linked to sedentary behaviour and daily responsibilities. Targeted interventions addressing contextual barriers and promoting active lifestyles are recommended to improve physical activity participation among women in this population.
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creator: I. A Amaechi
creator: O. C Ngwuta
creator: C. C Okeke
creator: P. O Asogwo
creator: P. O Nwani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 90
ending page: 101

MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION AND MULTI-DRUG-RESISTANT PROFILES OF UROPATHOGENIC ESCHERICHIA COLI FROM ADULTS ATTENDING NATIONAL ORTHOPEDIC HOSPITAL ENUGU, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli poses a significant challenge in both community and hospital settings. Aim: The study aimed to ascertain the prevalence, molecular types and susceptibility pattern of multidrug resistance patterns of E.coli isolated from urine of adults with urinary tract infections attending National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and thirty (230) urine samples were collected from adults aged 18-65 years attending the hospital using sterile screw capped containers. Structured questionnaire was used to obtain the demographic data of the participants. Urine samples were inoculated directly onto MacConkey agar, CLED and Chrome agar using streak plate method and incubated at 370C for 24 hrs. Colonies were identified based on their cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. Antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance of the isolates were determined by Kirby Bauer standard disc diffusion method on Mueller Hinton agar. Molecular analysis was done using multiplex and Linear PCR on multidrug resistant E. coli isolates. Results: Out of the 230 samples analysed, 60(26.08%) were positive for E. coli, of which 42(24.9%) were obtained from the female participants, suggesting a gender-based predisposition to UTIs(p>0.05). Age group 35-45 years had the highest prevalence (31.14%) of infection. Out of the 60 samples positive for E.coli, 25( 41.66%) were multidrug resistant E. coli. The result shows that there was no statistically significant (p>0.05) association between gender, age in multidrug resistant E. coli. The E.coli isolates were highly resistant (86.6%) to Streptomycin and Penicillin, and had least resistance to Nitrofurantoin (1.66%). Molecular analysis identified the presence of blaCTX-M and blaTEM resistance genes, while blaSHV was not detected. All the isolates resistant to Streptomycin and Penicillin were positive for blaTEM genes, while the isolates resistant to Nalid…
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creator: B. C Unaeze
creator: O Abueme
creator: I. B Enweani-Nwokelo
creator: S. N Nwankpa
creator: E. D Amuche
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 70
ending page: 89

CORRELATION OF SERUM MYOGENIN WITH DISEASE SEVERITY IN SUBJECTS WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE IN STEADY STATE
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description: Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary haemoglobinopathy with a high prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterised by chronic haemolysis, inflammation, and recurrent vaso-occlusive episodes that contribute to progressive organ dysfunction. Skeletal muscle involvement in SCD is increasingly recognised, yet the role of muscle regulatory factors such as myogenin, a key transcription factor involved in muscle differentiation and regeneration remains poorly understood. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum myogenin levels and disease severity in individuals with SCD in steady state, and to assess its association with anthropometric indices across different haemoglobin phenotypes. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study included 90 participants recruited using simple random sampling method: 30 HbSS patients in steady state, 30 HbAS individuals, and 30 HbAA controls, aged 10-50 years. Serum myogenin levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Anthropometric parameters were assessed and body mass index (BMI) calculated. Disease severity in HbSS participants was evaluated using the Adegoke and Kuti sickle cell disease severity scoring system. Individuals with cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, renal disease, obesity, pregnancy, or metabolic conditions were excluded. Statistical analyses included ANOVA and correlation testing to evaluate group differences and relationships between variables. Results: HbSS participants had significantly lower BMI compared to HbAA and HbAS groups (p = 0.001), despite no significant difference in age across groups. However, serum myogenin levels did not differ significantly among HbAA, HbAS, and HbSS participants (p = 0.967). Correlation analysis showed no significant association between myogenin and BMI (r = 0.017, p = 0.931) or age (r = 0.003, p = 0.986), although BMI was strongly positively correlated with age (r = 0.801, p = 0.001).…
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creator: O. P Manafa
creator: O. M Okafor
creator: E. C Onah
creator: C. E Ogbodo
creator: C. S Ezenwalie
creator: C. A Ihim
creator: C. S Okeke
creator: C. C Manafa
creator: E. K Nwene
creator: E. E Nnadi
creator: C. V Okafor
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 58
ending page: 69

KNOWLEDGE AND COPING STRATEGIES FOR OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN UMUAHIA, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Occupational stress and its coping strategies remain a significant challenge among healthcare workers globally, particularly in Nigeria, where healthcare professionals face increasing workload, poor staffing and managerial constraints that may predispose them to work-related stress. Aim: To assess the knowledge and coping strategies for occupational stress among healthcare workers in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria. Material and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional design involved a stratified random sampling technique used to select 420 healthcare workers from selected hospitals who met the inclusion criteria. The data collected were summarized using descriptive and analysed using inferential statistics of Chi-square, one-way ANOVA and paired t-test at significance level of p< 0.05. Results: Participants showed a high level of knowledge of occupational stress (3.03<!-- [if supportFields]> QUOTE <![if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:9pt; height:15pt' equationxml="<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="yes"?> <?mso-application progid="Word.Document"?> <w:wordDocument xmlns:aml="http://schemas.microsoft.com/aml/2001/core" xmlns:wpc="http://schemas.microsoft.com/office/word/2010/wordprocessingCanvas" xmlns:cx="http://schemas.mi…
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creator: C. A Okoro
creator: N. E Agbapuonwu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 47
ending page: 57

COMPARISON OF LIQUID BACTEC MGIT 960 AND SOLID LOWENSTEIN-JENSEN CULTURE FOR DETECTION OF MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS IN CLINICAL SAMPLES AT ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis is a major public health problem. Rapid and accurate detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) and its drug resistance is fundamental for effective control. Aim: This study evaluated the diagnostic performance, agreement and drug susceptibility testing (DST) using MGIT 960 compared with LJ culture of 530 clinical samples for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at NAUTH, GHO and COOUTH in Anambra state. Sputum samples of suspected TB participants were collected and cultured using liquid MGIT-960 and solid LJ media. Drug sensitivity testing of positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates against Streptomycin, Isoniazid, Rifampicin and Ethambutol, was performed. Data was analyzed using Epi-info. Results: MGIT-960 detected 428/530 (80.7%) positive M.tb, 62 (11.7%) negatives, 36 (6.8%) contaminated, and 4 (0.8%) NTM with detection time 11 (6) days compared to LJ that detected 411/530 (77.5%) positive M.tb, 92 (17.4%) negatives, 22 (4.2%) contaminated and 5 (0.9%) NTM with detection time 30 (11) days, 456(86.0%)were concordant positive M.tb isolates. Assuming LJ as the gold standard, MGIT 960 showed a sensitivity of 94.6%, specificity of 63.2%, positive predictive value of 90.9%, negative predictive value of 75.3%, and accuracy of 86.0%. DST was performed on 389 culture-positive samples. Concordance of resistance between MGIT and LJ varied by drug, Streptomycin 73.8%, Isoniazid 81.8%, Rifampicin 71.4%, and Ethambutol 71.1%. Total prevalence of MDR-TB 20.8%, Concordance MDR-TB for both method 35.8% and discordant MDR-TB 64.2%, MDR-TB 6.4% by MGIT-960 and 6.9% by LJ while Susceptibility was high for all drugs. Conclusion: MGIT 960 demonstrated high diagnostic yield for M.tb, and identified additional resistant isolates not detected by solid LJ medium. Combined use of both methods improves accurate diagnosis of TB, drug resistance, reduce contamination and guide effectiv…
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creator: G. N Uzoewulu
creator: M Goyal
creator: N. I Ibeh
creator: J. O Lawson
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 30
ending page: 46

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN FASTING BLOOD GLUCOSE AND LIPID PROFILE STATUS AMONG NEWLY-DIAGNOSED TYPE 2 DIABETICS OF THE THREE MAJOR ETHNIC GROUPS IN NIGERIA
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description: Background: Atherogenic dyslipidaemia and the risk of CVD in type 2 diabetics has been widely investigated. Few studies in Nigeria have been carried out among different ethnic groups to understand the pattern of dyslipidaemia and its link with hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetics. Aim: The present study aimed to determine the influence of hyperglycaemia on the lipid profile parameters in type 2 diabetes of the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which Blood glucose and lipid profile parameters were determined using standard laboratory tests. Ranges for TC < 200 mg/dl, TG < 150 mg/dl, LDL-C < 100 mg/dl, 51-60 mg/dl for females, and HDL-C 41- 60 mg/dl for males were considered dyslipidaemia. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Bonferroni multiple comparison test to evaluate the mean difference among the groups. Independent samples t-test was used to evaluate the mean difference in FBG and BMI with lipid profiles between groups. Analysis was with statistical significance set at <0.05. Results: The FBS was associated with increased TC, TG and LDL-c (r = 0.483269, 0.623952 and 0.390193 respectively). Similarly, BMI was found to be associated with increased TC, TG and LDL-c (r=0.432284, 0.569792 and 0.339701 respectively) with p=0.000001) However, both FBS and BMI were associated with decreased serum HDL-c levels (r= -0.278993 and -0.247900 respectively) with p=0.000001. Correlation between FBG and serum lipid profile parameters was observed. FBS levels were positively linked with TG, TC, and LDL-c but negatively associated with HDL-c. Conclusion: A correlation between FBG and serum lipid profile parameters has been observed. FBS levels were positively linked with TG and TC, but negatively associated with HDL-C, the good cholesterol. It can be suggested that failure to control type 2 diabetes leads in dyslipidaemia. Thus, effective control of hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetics and periodic check and t…
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creator: F. U Bunza
creator: C. C Onyenekwe
creator: I. Z Wasagu
creator: A. C Ihim
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 18
ending page: 29

ASSESSMENT OF DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY OF CLINICAL EXAMINATION AND ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN DETECTING BREAST CANCER IN KIGALI REFERRAL HOSPITALS
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description: Background: Breast cancer remains a major public health issue in Rwanda, with high mortality rates largely due to late-stage diagnosis. Aim: This study aimed to assess the accuracy of clinical breast examination (CBE) and ultrasonography in diagnosing breast cancer among patients at Kigali referral hospitals. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using a sample of 286 patients, determined via Clinical Breast Examination and selected through simple random sampling. Data on findings, breast ultrasound results, and histopathology outcomes were collected using a checklist. Histopathology served as the gold standard. T-test statistics were used to test three hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance. Results: Clinical breast examination showed 70.8% sensitivity, 86.7% specificity, and 77.6% overall accuracy. Sensitivity and specificity of clinical breast examination did not differ significantly in their influence on breast cancer detection in the sampled patients (t = 1.462; p = 0.145). Breast ultrasound had a sensitivity of 93.4%, specificity of 84.1%, and an overall accuracy of 88.1%. Both sensitivity and specificity contributed similarly to the diagnostic capability of breast ultrasonography in detecting breast cancer within the studied referral hospitals (t = 0.794; p = 0.331). Clinical breast examination and breast ultrasound demonstrate comparable predictive performance in detecting breast cancer within the studied referral hospitals (t = 1.248; p = 0.213). Conclusion: Clinical breast examination demonstrated a high sensitivity, specificity of 86.7% and overall accuracy indicating effective identification of most breast cancer cases. Additionally, breast ultrasound also exhibited a high sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy confirming its effectiveness in accurately detecting breast cancer and correctly identifying benign cases, highlighting the potential of breast ultrasound as a reliable diagnostic tool. Recommendations: Access t…
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creator: J Ganza
creator: C Niyotwiringiye
creator: I Kayitesi
creator: F. X Akimuhana
creator: A. M Afodun
creator: M Mukangendo
creator: T Mukabagorora
creator: M Olivier
creator: E. A Odumeru
creator: K. K Quadri
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-12
publication date: 2025-12-12
starting page: 3
ending page: 17

ENDING MATERNAL AND NEONATAL TETANUS IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH BY 2030: A ONE HEALTH PERSPECTIVE ON ELIMINATION STRATEGIES
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description: Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus (MNT) remains a preventable yet persistent cause of mortality in the Global South. Despite major progress since the 1989 WHO initiative, the goal of global elimination by 2030 is threatened by health inequities, fragile systems, and environmental exposure. This review examines MNT elimination through a One Health lens, integrating human, animal, and environmental perspectives to expose hidden transmission pathways and new intervention opportunities. It synthesizes current evidence on immunization, clean birth practices, surveillance, and community engagement, while highlighting cross-sectoral strategies such as veterinary collaboration, sanitation reform, and environmental hygiene. Drawing lessons from successful elimination programs in India, Uganda, and Senegal, the paper argues that sustainable elimination depends on multisectoral coordination, gender equity, and culturally grounded community ownership. The path to ending MNT by 2030 lies not only in vaccines, but in aligning health systems, environmental management, and social structures under a unified One Health strategy. This review highlights how integrating One Health principles can accelerate the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus in the Global South. It emphasizes cross sectoral collaboration, community engagement, and innovative technologies as essential components of sustainable, equitable strategies.
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creator: C. A. Ofodile
creator: S. S. Enitan
creator: M. O. Dada
creator: M. U. Iduh
creator: K. A. Digban
creator: O. N. Idume
creator: G. E. Itodo
creator: B. B. Dogonyaro
creator: S. Gupta
creator: M. C. L Tsague
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 137
ending page: 158

ETHICAL ISSUES IN HUMAN AND ANIMAL RESEARCH: A Review
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description: Research involving human and animal subjects is integral to advancing scientific knowledge, improving healthcare, and informing policy. In human research, ethical issues revolve around safeguarding autonomy, obtaining informed consent, ensuring beneficence, and protecting vulnerable populations such as children, prisoners, and individuals with diminished decision-making capacity. The 4Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement, and Responsibility) in animal research offer a framework for minimizing animal suffering while ensuring the scientific validity of experiments. Ethical issues in human and animal research are not peripheral concerns but central pillars of responsible scientific practice. Addressing them ensures the protection of subjects, upholds human dignity and animal welfare, promotes credible science, and fosters societal benefit. A collaborative effort of researchers, ethicists, policymakers, and the broader community is paramount in handling the ethical challenges in research. Therefore, by maintaining ethical principles and practices, the scientific community can continue to push the boundaries of knowledge while upholding the fundamental rights and wellbeing of both human and animal participants. This study therefore critically examines the ethical issues surrounding both human and animal research, analysing historical contexts by examining case studies and the importance of addressing these ethical issues in research, with the ultimate goal of promoting ethically sound, socially responsible, and scientifically rigorous research practices.
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creator: Chizoba Udoka Uba-Obiano
creator: S. N. N. Nwosu
creator: N. E. Okpala
creator: A. A. Onyiaorah
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 121
ending page: 136

THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF LASER THERAPY AND TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION IN CHRONICALLY INFECTED WOUNDS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
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description: Chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and venous leg ulcers pose a significant global health burden due to prolonged healing, recurrent infections, and high treatment costs. Traditional wound care often fails to adequately manage these complexities with chronic wounds, particularly when complicated by biofilm forming, antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This narrative review evaluates the therapeutic potential of two non-invasive biophysical modalities: Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER) and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for chronically infected wounds. LASER therapy promotes healing through photo-biomodulation by enhancing mitochondrial activity, angiogenesis, collagen synthesis, photodynamic bacterial destruction. and TENS facilitates healing via pain modulation, improved microcirculation, reduced inflammation, and fibroblast stimulation. Clinical and preclinical evidence highlights the efficacy of both modalities in accelerating wound closure, promoting tissue regeneration, and reducing infection. Furthermore, combining LASER and TENS may offer synergistic benefits by targeting multiple aspects of wound pathophysiology. Although current evidence is promising, further randomized controlled trials are necessary to establish standardized protocols and evaluate long-term outcomes. Integrating LASER and TENS into multidisciplinary wound care could significantly enhance healing in patients with chronic wound infections.
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creator: Saturday Nicholas Oghumu
creator: Chigozie Okwudili Obaseki
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 109
ending page: 120

CORRELATION BETWEEN GLYCATED HEMOGLOBIN AND LIPID PROFILE STATUS AMONG NEWLY-DIAGNOSED TYPE 2 DIABETICS OF INDIVIDUALS OF THREE ETHNIC GROUPS IN SOKOTO, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) has been suggested to be a better predictor for coronary heart disease and strongly associated with atherosclerosis. Changes in lipid profile is linked with severity of diabetes as adjudged by HbA1c. Lipid abnormalities are common in type 2 diabetics, but the pattern may vary between ethnic groups. Aim: The current study was undertaken to explore the association of HbA1c and serum lipid profile parameters in type 2 diabetics among persons of three ethnic groups in Sokoto. Methods: The current study was a cross-sectional case-control study. The Cochran formula was used to determine the number of subjects recruited. Demographic and clinical characteristics were obtained from all the participants. HbA1c and lipid profile parameters were determined using standard laboratory tests. Ranges for TC <200mg/dl, TG <150mg/dl, LDL-c <100mg/dl and ranges between 51-60 for females and 41-60 for males for HDL-c were considered dyslipidaemia. All data were presented using mean and standard deviation, while independent samples t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Bonferroni multiple comparison test to evaluate the mean differences between the groups at statistical significance of <0.05. Results: The mean values for serum HbA1c were slightly higher in diabetic groups (7.58±0.87 for Hausa/Fulani, 7.23±0.58 for Igbo and 7.34±0.67 for Yoruba) compared to their corresponding control groups (5.21±0.56 for Hausa/Fulani, 5.15±0.55 for Igbo and 5.21±0.55 for Yoruba) with p <0.0001. Serum levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-c in diabetic group (207.99±89.82, 183.16±60.76 and 101.27±52.19 respectively) were higher than the control group (161.68±27.64, 137.14±24.18 and 90.16±28.14 respectively) p <0.0001; whereas, HDL-c was decreased in diabetics (37.26±12.90) than the control group (46.64±11.15) p <0.005. The HbA1c correlated with increased TC, TG and LDL-c (r = 0.483269, 0.623952 and 0.390193 respectively) p=0.0001 …
subject: Articles
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creator: F. U. Bunza
creator: C. C. Onyenekwe
creator: I. Z. Wasagu
creator: A. C. Ihim
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 97
ending page: 108

SONOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF FOETAL LIVER VOLUME CHANGES IN PREECLAMPSIA
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description: Introduction: The foetal liver serves as a central site for foeto-placental metabolism and vascular connection with the heart, and it is markedly influenced by intrauterine pathologies, rendering liver size assessment by ultrasonography essential for evaluating growth, nutrition, and maturation, and for early detection of microsomia and macrosomia. Aim: This study aimed to assess foetal liver volume changes in pregnant participants with preeclampsia and to correlate foetal liver volume with the gestational age. Material and methods: A case-controlled study involving 602 participants was conducted at Borno State Specialist Hospital. Purposive sampling method was adopted to recruit pre-eclamptic pregnant women, while non-pre-eclamptic pregnant women were selected using convenience sampling. The foetal biparietal diameter, femoral length, liver dimensions (anteroposterior, transverse, cephalocaudal), was measured with ultrasonic diagnostic software. Descriptive statistics and normality tests (Shapiro-Wilk) were performed. Mann-Whitney U tested differences in foetal liver volumes between two groups. Spearman’s rho assessed correlations between foetal liver volume with gestational age. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Statistically significant reductions (p < 0.001) were observed in foetal liver volume of the pre-eclamptic participants compared to non-pre-eclamptic individuals. Strong positive statistically significant correlation existed between the foetal liver volume with gestational age. Conclusion: Sonography effectively identified a significant reduction of foetal liver volume in pregnancies complicated by pre-eclampsia.
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creator: Y. M. Mohammed
creator: A. C. Ugwu
creator: J. C. Eze
creator: V. K. Nwodo
creator: A. M. Ali
creator: A. Bamanga
creator: I. Mohammed
creator: A. Umaru
creator: S.O. Nwadike
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 88
ending page: 96

PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS OF TRICHOMONIASIS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN RECEIVING ANTENATAL CARE IN AMAC, FCT ABUJA, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Trichomoniasis is a global public health concern threatening pregnant women and female neonatal health. Aim: The study was designed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of trichomoniasis among pregnant women receiving antenatal care in Abuja Municipal Area Council, FCT, Abuja. Materials and Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was employed, and 422 HVS and MSU samples were collected from pregnant women aged 20-50 years and analysed microscopically using direct wet mount. A self-structured interview questionnaire was administered to collect data on the risk factors associated with trichomoniasis. Result: The result showed that out of 422 samples tested, 97(23.0%) had the infection. Pregnant women aged 21-25 years had the highest prevalence rates of trichomoniasis with 28.9% and is relatively more (25.6%) among those in their second trimester. Educational status (χ² = 71.27, P = 0.0290), marital status (χ² = 51.95, P = 0.0140), occupational status (χ² = 9.76, P = 0.0180), income (χ² = 14.72, P = 0.0020), number of sexual partners (χ² = 6.22, P = 0.0130), condom use (χ² = 16.55, P = 0.025), and ignorance (χ² = 7.15, P = 0.0010) were the risk factors associated with trichomoniasis among the study population. Conclusion: The study discovered that the overall prevalence of trichomoniasis in the study population was 23.0% with urine samples having a higher detection rate compared to high vaginal swab samples, though, this may be due to lager urine samples. The pregnant women aged 21-25 years and those in their second trimester of pregnancy had the highest prevalence rates of trichomoniasis. While, marital status, occupation, education, household income, condom use and ignorance were the risk factors associated with trichomoniasis infection. Therefore, there is a need for public health enlightenment to reduce the rate of infection and create more awareness among the study population.
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creator: G.I.A. Okoroiwu
creator: N. I. Ubosi
creator: J. Omogu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 73
ending page: 87

PREVALENCE AND PATTERN OF WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN OVIA NORTH EAST, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Work-related Musculo skeletal disorders are major health challenges for school teachers due to prolonged standing and repetitive tasks. Understanding the prevalence and patterns of musculoskeletal disorders among primary school teachers is essential for developing effective intervention strategies to improve their occupational health and well-being. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and pattern of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among primary school teachers in Ovia North-East, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among Two hundred and sixty-seven (267) primary school teachers in Ovia North-East, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Participants were selected using a consecutive sampling method. Data were collected with a structured self-administered questionnaire comprising sociodemographic/work related characteristics and an adapted Standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics summarized participants’ characteristics and WMSD prevalence, while Chi-square tests assessed associations between variables at a 0.05 significance level. Results: Among 267 primary school teachers studied, the 12-month prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was highest in the lower back (28.5%), followed by the shoulder (21.7%) and upper back (18.7%). Pain affected work performance in 6.0% of respondents. Job characteristics such as longer teaching hours, poor posture and lack of ergonomic furniture were significantly associated with higher pain levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the lower back, shoulder, and upper back, is highly prevalent among primary school teachers. The contributing factors include job-related characteristics such as longer teaching hours, poor posture and inadequate ergonomic support alongside sociodemographic factors like age and years of teaching experience. Improved workplace ergonomics, teacher training on posture,…
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creator: Samuel Olufemi Bolarinde
creator: Blessing Chukwubuosim Nwabuzor
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 58
ending page: 72

ASSESSMENT OF MICROBIAL AND PARASITIC CONTAMINATION ON NIGERIAN CURRENCY NOTES AT NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA NIGERIA
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description: Background: The pervasive use of currency notes in daily transactions makes them a potential vector for microbial contamination. Despite this there remains a notable lack of comprehensive studies specifically addressing the extent and types of microbial contamination present on Nigerian currency. Aim: This study evaluated the bacterial and parasitic contamination of Nigerian currency notes at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Method: A cross-sectional study design was employed for this research. Currency notes were gathered from various locations on campus. A total of 70 samples of Nigerian currency notes were randomly collected. Samples were prepared for bacterial culture by swabbing with sterile saline moistened cotton swabs. Bacteria were cultured on Salmonella Shigella media, incubated, and analysed for colony characteristics. Remaining samples underwent microscopic examination for protozoan parasites after centrifugation and resuspension. Result: The identified protozoan parasites included Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba coli, and Enterobius vermicularis, with contamination rates of 35.7%, 57.1%, and 7.1%, respectively. Statistical analysis indicated no significant association between parasite species and overall prevalence (P = 0.06). Bacterial isolates included Klebsiella spp., Proteus spp., and Escherichia coli, with prevalence rates of 50%, 25%, and 25%, respectively, and no significant association between bacterial species and prevalence (P = 0.4). Notably, polymer notes (10 to 50 naira) exhibited a 0.00% contamination rate, while paper notes showed varying prevalence: 35.7% for 100 naira, 28.6% for 200 naira, 14.3% for 500 naira, and 21.4% for 1000 naira. A significant association was found between currency denomination and prevalence (P = 0.01). Furthermore, the physical condition of the notes influenced contamination levels, with mutilated notes demonstrating the highest contamination rate (22.97± 4.51%). However, no significant association (P = 0.2). C…
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creator: C Obudulu
creator: M. I. Ikeh
creator: U. C. Aghalu
creator: C. S. Olisa
creator: B. C. Umeanor
creator: S. I. Okpani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 50
ending page: 57

PREVALENCE OF FOOT PAIN AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG FINAL YEAR CLINICAL STUDENTS AT UNIVERSITY OF BENIN, EDO STATE, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Foot pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint that can interfere with mobility, daily activities, and clinical performance. Clinical students are particularly vulnerable due to prolonged standing, unsuitable footwear, and heavy Understanding clinical its prevalence associated risk factors is essential for developing effective preventive strategies and improving students’ well-being. Aim: To determine the prevalence of foot pain and identify the associated risk factors among final-year clinical students at the University of Benin. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study among 208 final-year clinical students of Physiotherapy, Nursing, Radiography, and Medical Laboratory Science. Participants were selected using a proportionate stratified sampling technique. Data were collected using a validated Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ). Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while inferential tests (Kruskal Wallis, Mann–Whitney U, Spearman’s correlation, and binary logistic regression) were used to assess associations at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The prevalence of foot pain was 47.6% among participants, indicating a moderate to high occurrence. The Kruskal–Wallis test revealed significant differences in foot pain across departments (p=0.019), with nursing students reporting highest scores. Spearman’s correlation showed significant relationships between prolonged standing (r = −0.143, p = 0.039), shoe height (r = −0.166, p = 0.017), and shoe fit (r = 0.157, p = 0.024) with foot pain. The Mann–Whitney U test found no significant gender difference (p = 0.555), while the presence of foot defects significantly influenced foot pain (p = 0.045). Logistic regression showed that the overall model was significant (χ² = 27.74, p = 0.015), though no single predictor independently explained the outcome. Conclusion: Nearly half of the clinical students experienced foot pain, largely associated with prolonged standing, poorly fitted footwear, …
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creator: Samuel Olufemi Bolarinde
creator: Mercy Osayawe Ada-Okungbowa
creator: Osabhahiemhen Adolphus Ado-Aghughu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 28
ending page: 49

COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF GROUNDNUT OIL AND PALM OIL ON LIPID PROFILE OF ADULT WISTAR RATS
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description: Background: The consumption of groundnut oil and palm oil have become common in our daily diets. These oils are edible vegetable oils widely consumed globally and are composed of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. While these oils are often promoted for their perceived health benefits, emerging research suggests potential implications for lipid profiles. They are said to be pro atherogenic and can be responsible for cardiovascular complications. Aim: This study was aimed to assess the comparative effects of groundnut oil and palm oil on lipid profile of Wistar Rats. Materials and Methods: Fifteen (15) Adults Wistar rats weighing between 90-100g were procured for this study. They were divided into three (3) groups of five (5) rats each. All the animals were given rat chow and normal saline ad libitum. The Control group (Group 1) was given rat chow and normal saline only. The Sample groups; Group 2 was administered with 100mg/kg of groundnut oil while Group 3 was given 100mg/kg of palm oil for 21 days. The weight of the animals before and after the administration were recorded. Results: Increase in body weight was seen across all the groups (both control and sample). The average body weights of the control group, Group 2 and Group 3 were 110, 115 and 119 grams respectively which indicates that the sample groups were significantly different when compared with the control group (P˂0.05). That of sample group 2 indicates a statistically significant difference in relation to sample group 3 (P˂0.05). The Control group (Group 1) had the lowest cholesterol level (70.01±0.03 mg/dl) while the rats administered groundnut oil (Group 2) had the highest cholesterol level (100.07±0.17 mg/dl). The cholesterol level of the rats administered with palm oil (Group 3) was (85.50±0.07 mg/dl). The Control group had the highest value for HDL (110.78±0.06 mg/dl), followed by Group 3 (89.66±0.02 mg/dl) while Group 2 had the least HDL level (80.50±0.06 mg/dl). The triglyceride and LDL leve…
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creator: Timothy Izuchukwu A. Onwunumagha
creator: Ebere Uma Etu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 16
ending page: 27

GENDER MICROAGGRESSIONS: PREVALENCE AND IMPACT ON FEMALE HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN NIGERIA
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description: Background: Gendered microaggressions, subtle but pervasive forms of discrimination, impede the professional growth of female healthcare professionals, especially in male-dominated environments. These behaviours undermine gender inclusivity, contribute to psychological distress, and hinder the potential for innovation and sustainable development in healthcare. While well documented in other sectors, research exploring their impact in Nigeria's healthcare system is limited. Aim of Study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of gendered microaggressions among female healthcare professionals in Nigeria, examine their perceptions, and analyse the relationship between microaggressions, burnout, and job satisfaction. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study recruited 111 female healthcare professionals from hospitals in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. The Sexist Microaggression Experience Stress Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and a job satisfaction measure were used. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency) summarized the data, while ANOVA, Spearman rank correlation, and multiple regression analysed relationships with an alpha level of 0.05. Results: The study found a high prevalence of gendered microaggressions (mean score 28.02±4.72), high burnout levels (mean score 19.61±8.34) and reduced job satisfaction (mean score 2.64±1.06). Spearman’s correlation revealed that gendered microaggressions were positively correlated with burnout (rho=0.420, p<0.001) and negatively correlated with job satisfaction (rho= 0.247, p=0.009). ANOVA identified significant differences in gendered microaggressions across job roles (p=0.003) although no significant differences were observed across ethnicities (p=0.305). Conclusion: Gendered microaggressions are a major contributor to burnout and job dissatisfaction among female healthcare professionals, undermining their well-being and professional growth. To promote innovation and sustainable development within th…
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creator: Joana O. Adeleke
creator: Adebayo O. Adeyinka
creator: Abisade O. Fafunmilade
creator: Cindy G. Samuel-Udofia
creator: Niyi D. Akintayo
creator: Emmanuel O. Onimisi
creator: Desmond A. Zaki
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-08-30
publication date: 2025-08-30
starting page: 2
ending page: 15

MOLECULAR EVALUATION OF CHLAMYDIA TRACHOMATIS AND NEISSERIA GONORRHOEAE INFECTIONS AND THEIR CO-INFECTION AMONG WOMEN WITH INFERTILITY ISSUES AT GYNEACOLOGICAL CLINICS IN ADO – EKITI, NIGERIA
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description: Background: Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are obligate intracellular bacteria that cause urethritis, cervicitis, salpingitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, painful urination, abnormal and unusual increase discharge from the vagina and penis. Due to the similarities in these microorganisms’ clinical presentations, one can be taken for the other. Aim: This study evaluated the level of chlamydia and gonorrhoeae infections and their co-infection among women attending fertility clinics in Ado–Ekiti, Ekiti State. Methods: 115 urine and 115 high vagina swab samples (230 samples) were collected from women attending selected fertility clinics. Rapid kits specific for C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae were used and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was carried out to further test for these microorganisms in both urine and high vagina swabs samples. Results: A total of 36 (31.3%) and 39 (33.9%) were positive to C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae respectively when tested with rapid test kit using urine sample; 37 (32.2%) and 49 (42.6%) were positive to C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae respectively when urine samples were tested with qPCR; 13 (11.3%) were positive C. trachomatis when HVS samples were tested with qPCR, 51 (44.3%) were positive to N. gonorrhoeae with HVS samples when tested with qPCR. A total of 19 (16.5%) showed co–infection of C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae with rapid kit using urine; 23 (20%) showed co–infection of these microorganisms when tested with qPCR and 9 (7.8%) showed co–infection from HVS samples tested with qPCR. Co–infection of C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae were statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study has indicated the need for inclusion of the screening of these organisms routinely especially in fertility centers and gynecological clinics. This will further help in combating the havoc that can be caused by these silent microorganisms.
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creator: Adebimpe Helen EGBEBI
creator: Bernard Oluwapelumi OLUBOYO
creator: Richard Yomi AKELE
creator: Oluwadamilola Mary OGUNYEMI
creator: Janet Funmilayo AKINSEYE
creator: Sunday Buru AYUBA
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-05-30
publication date: 2025-05-30
starting page: 174
ending page: 194

RELEVANCE OF URINE RAPID TEST IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF MALARIA AMONG FEBRILE CHILDREN AGED 1-10 YEARS IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA
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description: Background: Early diagnosis, prompt and effective treatments are the basis for the management of malaria and key to reducing the associated morbidity and mortality. Laboratory diagnostic challenges exist because clinical diagnosis is imprecise and leads to excessive use of antimalarial drugs. Thus there is need to introduce other non-invasive rapid diagnostic tools in order to achieve the goal of universal access to malaria diagnosis. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the reliability and usefulness of urine malaria test in the diagnosis of malaria among febrile children aged 1-10 years. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study in which 212 febrile children aged 1-10 years were consecutively recruited. Socio-demographic and clinical data of the subjects were obtained using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Each of the subjects were screened for malaria using blood and urine based malaria test kits respectively. Blood samples from each subjects were also sent to the laboratory for malaria microscopy. Results: Out of 212 subjects studied, 38 subjects (17.9%) had malaria parasitaemia based on microscopy. The prevalence of malaria based on blood-based malaria rapid diagnostic test and urine malaria test were 21.7% and 9% respectively. Microscopy as the gold standard for malaria diagnosis compared to other diagnostic modalities. Conclusion: In view of the low sensitivity of urine malaria test in this study, there is need for further improvement in the sensitivity of urine malaria test before it can be used alone as screening/diagnostic test for malaria in our locality.
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creator: Sunday .C AMEH
creator: Stanley .K ONAH
creator: Simon .N USHIE
creator: Jacinter .C ELO-ILO
creator: Maryqueen .C UJU
creator: Joy .C EBENEBE
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Biomedical Investigation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-05-30
publication date: 2025-05-30
starting page: 163
ending page: 173