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- ItemBesease Local Authority Middle School laterine project(1967-09-14) Buor-Sefah, EmmanuelINTRODUCTION In partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of. Diploma to Physical Planning, every Final Tear Student was asked to choose a studio problem and carry it through survey and analysis, design and implemention. The main objective was to consolidate everything what the student has learnt in previous courses and at the same time to make a modest but reel contribution to the development of the country. The project selected was to be undertaken by the villagers themselves through. Self-help The villages surveyed before the final project wee chosen at Besease were, Aburaso, Konomoase, Daku, Bebu and Yabi. Problems of some of the villages were street drainage, poor construction of latrines and lack of classrooms for school children. The problems demanding immediate attention of the people of Besease were the lack of school latrine and the need for a well on the southeast of the village. At the request of the Chief mid the Development Committee, Miss Addaquay embarked on the development of the well leaving the school latrine for the writer. Besease village comes within the Guinea Savanna Woodland vegetation. The land is good for cocoa planta¬tion but the major crops grown by the people of Besease include maize. Plantain, cocoyam and cassava. In other words, the people are subsistence farmers. The existing facilities of Besease include a market and shops, and a post office. The position of the well on the northern part of the village is a problem as the people have to cross the Kumasi-Accra road to get to it. Other problems are lack of public health facilities and again the delaying of work on the new school building under construction. the Village Development Committee is responsible for the construction of the school latrine. The principal object in providing a sanitary latrine is to protect the health of the people. There are two major types of la trines, Family Privies and Public or Communal Privies. In both the Family and Public Latrines ere found the waterborne privies. Aqua Privies and Pit Latrines. Sketches are drawn to illustrate these clearly in the report. In constructing any of these privies there are some general standards that must be adhered to. The criteria for selecting a type of sanitary installation includes cultural, religious, climatic and geological conditions. Ehlers and Steel's requirements given in Chapter 111 my safeguard the health of a family or a community when a latrine is sited to fulfill the seven requirements. The nature of water is exposed to pollution either on the surface of the earth or underground. It is important that latrines are well located so that they cannot pollute sources of water supply. Another agent of disease carrier is the fly, when it flies indiscriminately from feaces to food. In meet of the Ashanti villages importance of latrines is not realized. Improvements have been made on the local construction of latrines In the rural areas, but the villagers do not make it possible for the experts to advise them. The Besease school latrine was constructed by the villagers themselves with technical advice and some material help from experts and voluntary organizations. The soil dug from the pit was used for preparing blocks for the walls of the latrine. Some materials used for the old latrine were also used for the const ruction of the new one. The remaining materials were purchased with the money raised from a harvest and some of the money which the villagers had paid as special rate towards the development of the village.
- ItemSurvey and characterisation of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase variants and haemoglobin types in Ghana(1973-09-15) Acquaye, Clemenceau Theophilus AdoteiVenous blood samples obtained from 1,680 healthy Ghanaians belonging to some of the major ethnic groups in Ghana were analysed using the methaemoglobin reduction test, vertical polymerylamide gel electrophoresis at PH 8.6 and spectrophotometric methods: and for haemaglobin types, using vertical polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis at PH 8.6, paper electrophoresis at PH 8.6 agar gel electrophoresis at PH 8.6, paper electrophoresis at PH 8.6, agar gel electrophoresis at PH 6.4 and polypeptide chain analysis on cellulose acetate strips. The overall frequency of the of the G-6-PD deficiency was found to be 13.6% with the highest frequency in the Ewe Group, located in the south-eastern part of Ghana and the lowest frequency in the Mamprusi group, located in the north-eastern part of Ghana. The frequency of the enzyme deficiency declines as one moves westwards and inland from the geographical location of the Ewe Group.
- ItemEffects of some extraneous factors on the bactericidal efficiency of ultraviolet radiation”(1981) Achkar, Badih Chebib SeraphimSome extraneous factors affecting the bactericidal efficiency of UV light 254nm have been studied. The sensi¬tivities of various micro-organisms to UV radiation were found to vary considerably. Though non-lethal by Itself, UV light 350nm markedly Improved the antagonistic effect of an aqueous environment. containing various hydrogen ion concentrations - the higher the pH the greater the effect. On the other hand, the rather power¬ful Intrinsic antimicrobial effect of UV light 254nm completely masked any possible mutual enhancement of antimicrobial activity. An appreciable proportion of cells Injured from UV radiation could be revitalized when exposed Immediately to UV light 350nm but not to the dark; the effect was found to be more pronounced In more acidic Isotonic medium (pH 5.0) than In either neutral or alkaline environments. This observation could probably have Immense practical Importance In reversing cell damage due to UV radiation. Hypotonic and hypertonic solutions significantly enhanced the activities of both UV light 254nm and 350nm, but the extent of influence appeared to be for greater less self torelant E. coli than the more salt-tolerant staph. Aureus. Phenol and chlorocresol antagonized micro-organisms and better still in the presence of UV light 350nm; but phenol and to a lesser extent chlorocreso! significantly diminished the biocidal activities of UV radiation 254nm; the phenomenon was found to reflect the strong absorption of UV Iight 254nm by the phenolic compounds. Both compounds, In addition, abolished photoreactivatlon at 350nm of cells previously Injured by UV radiation. The non-Ionic surface active agent, polysorbate 80, Irrespective of whether the concentration was below or above that for micelle formation, reduced persistently the anti¬microbial efficiency of UV light 254nm. Thus the enhanced activity normally found with chemical antimicrobial agents In the presence of a surfactant below the CMC, that occurs as a result of reduced surface tension and Improved penetration of cells by chemical agents, could not be detected. Inactive at pH 5, chloroquine phosphate exhibited gradually Increasing antimicrobial activity, with Increasing relative alkalinity, that was further aggravated by UV light 350nm. At any specified pH, Increasing concentrations of the drug produced persistent reduction In the bactericidal efficiency of UV light 254nm, Though the drug did not completely abolish photoreactivation, It did nevertheless considerably reduce Its extent. Thus, although the physical sterilizing agent of UV radiation behaves, In the presence of some extraneous substances, as do chemical antimicrobial agents, they nevertheless vary considerably In most aspects; the overall response of one cannot therefore be superimposed on the other.
- Item“Serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (hdl-cholesterol) in Ghanaians in relation to risk factors for Ischaemic Heart disease”(1983) Golightly, Edmond Kwashie OdarteyIn this study the enzymatic and chemical methods of estimating total serum cholesterol were compared. The enzymatic method of estimation was found more suitable as a result of its specificity, with levels about the “true” serum total cholesterol concentration. The serum total cholesterol and High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol levels were measured in 284 men and women ad (20-69) years, in an attempt to establish the normal levels for Ghanaians. These subjects were sampled from among the University community, Ayia Township and some from the Kumasi city. Premenopausal females had higher HDL-C levels and therefore higher HDL-ratios, than men, probably as a result of induced HDL synthesis by the ovarian hormones. Postmenopausal female’s become more ‘sat-risk” than their male counter-parts upon the withdrawal of the hormones. The overall effect was the narrowing of the HDL difference between the male and female sexes till in the fifth decade when they bath run at almost equal risk to developing CVD. Cigarette stroking, obesity, hypercholesterolaemia and diabetes mellitus were the most potent risk factors studied in the work. The marked inverse relationship between index body weight (IBW) and HDL cholesterol levels was emphasised and trust be seriously considered in the investigation of risk factors for CVD. Smoking and diabetes millitus were shown to be risk factors to CVD and their inverse and direct relationships with HDL-C and TC were respectively established. These relationships were stronger with smoking than with controlled diabetes mellitus. A smoker therefore runs a greater risk than a diabetic. The level of HDL-C in controlled diabetes mallitus is influenced by the type of hypoglycaemic therapy administered. As shown in this work, diabetics on sulphonyl – ureas were found to have lower IDL-C levels, in direct contrast to the increasing levels observed with insulin-dependent diabetics (345). The level of glycosylated haemoglobin (BhA1) correlated with the level of blood sugar and therefore could be used as an index for diabetic control. HbA1 levels were found to be unaffected by the type of treatment, even though the sugar levels were controlled5 in sore diabetics. This confirmed that, HbA1 once formed remained in the red blood cell through out its life span. Uncontrolled diabetes is associated with decreasing HDL-C levels and increasing TC levels as depicted in the adult male alloxandiabetic rats. The glycosylated haemoblobiin levels increased with the severity of diabetes. It was again shown that the formation of HbA1 was slow and non-enzymatic rather dependent on the concentration of blood glucose level. Severe hyperglycaemia was observed to cause death probably as a result of vascular complications. Physiological imbalance may also lead to the development of ketoacidiosis, coma and consequently death.
- ItemStudies on the hypotensive and other pharmacological activities of an extract from Anthocleista Nobilis(1983) Duwiejua, MahamaThe pharmacological effects of the aqueous extract and the alcohol-insoluble fraction of the aqueous extract of the dried powdered root bark of Antiocleis ta nobilis have been studied with the object of finding the possible mechanism of action of the hypoterisive principle(s) present in the extract. Cardiovascular studies were carried out on the arterial blood pressure of the anaesthetised cat and on the isolated perfused rabbit heart. A dose-dependent depressor effect, which is as slightly antagonised by atropine, was observed in both models. Bilateral vagotomy had no effect on the hypotensive effect of the extract. Phentolamine and propranolol had no effect on the extract- induced transient hypotension, indicating that the lowering of the blood pressure was not due to either a direct or an indirect anrenergic effect. The extract is not likely to have any stimulant effect on the vagus, since bilateral vagotomy had no effect on its hypotensive action. The hypotensive action was also thought to be partially due to a direct muscarinic effect because bilateral vagotomy did not affect the atropine-sensitive portion of the depressor effect. The extract also antagonised the pressor phase (nicotinic Effect) of a large dose (150 μg) of acetyicholine. This action could be due to a ganglion-blocking effect, as investigations in later experiments revealed. The crystalline compound of the extract (alcohol-insoluble fraction) had a slightly less hypotensive effect on the anaesthetised cat. This hypotensive effect was completely antagonised by atropine, indicating that the hypotensive action of the crystalline compound could be due only to a muscarinic effect. Thus this action might account for the muscarinic action of the whole extract deserved on the anaesthetised cat. Bilateral vagotony also had effect on the hypotensive effect of the crystalline compound. This further supports the suggestion that the muscarinic portion of the hypotensive effect of the extract is a direct effect and not mediated through vagal stimulation. Phentolainine and propranolol also had no effect on the blood-pressure lowering action of the crystalline compound. These also suggest that the crystals, like the extract, had no adrenergic action, either directly or indirectly. The isolated perfused rabbit heart also showed negative inotropic and chronotropic effects in the presence of the extract. This was attributed to a direct effect of the extract on heart nuscle. Similar results were obtained with the crystals but, unlike the extract, the d.epresssor effect of the crystals could be antagonised by atropine. High doses of the crystalline compound, 30 mg, also slightly increased the rate and force of the heart beats in the presence of atropine. The tachycardia was antagonised by hexamethonium, 20 μg, and propranolol. High doses of the extract above 30 mg were therefore thought to have an effect on the intrinsic sympathetic ganglia on the heart. The contractions of the nictitating membrane obtained through stimulation of the superior cervical pre-ganglionic nerve trunk were antagonised by 1.0 ml of the extract, thus confirming a ganglion blocking effect of the extract. The extract relaxed the rabbit duodenum. The relaxation could not be antagonised by either phentolamine or propranolol. On the guinea-pig ileum the extract antagonised contractions induced by nicotine, histamine and potassium chloride, in that order of decreasing susceptibility. The antagonism of nicotine-induced contractions was far greater than that for histamine or potassium chloride. Other smooth muscle preparations like the isolated guinea- pig tracheal chain were also relaxed and neither propranolol nor mepyramine had any effect on the relaxations. It was concluded from these observations that the extract did not induce its spasmolytic effect through interaction with adrenergic receptors through’ a local release of sympathomimetic amines. Though the extract showed a greater activity at the nicotinic site (ganglion) it also acted non-specifically on smooth muscles to relax them. The crystalline compound of the extract contracted the isolated guinea-pig-il.eum. The crystal-induced contractions were antagonised by only atropine i.e. mepyrarnine and hexamethonium had no effect on these contractions. This further confirmed that the crystals had muscarinic actions. The actions of the extract on skeletal muscle preparations were also studied. The twitches of the directly stimulated muscle were considerably depressed in the presence of the extract. The extract was, therefore, thought to have a direct muscle relaxant action. The contraction of the isolated rat phrenic nerve-hemidiaphragm preparation produced by stimulation of the phrenic nerve ire also depressed. It was thought that the extract could also have a neuromuscular blocking action even though the observation could be attributed to the direct muscle relaxant actions. Results from the guinea-pig intradermal wheal and the corneal reflex experiments indicate a weak local anaesthetic action for the extract. Since local anaesthetics interfere with conduction of impulses along nerve and muscle fibres, it was thought that part of the hypotensive effect could be attributed to this action. The LD50 for the extract administered intraperitoneally to rats was 4.01 ± 0.22 ml/kg body at 95% confidence limits. The acute toxicity studies on rats revealed that the extract had neither central nervous depressant nor stimulant effects. There were, however, indications of alterations in the autonomic nervous system manifested by purgation and urination at dose levels above i.0 ml per kg body weight. The hind limbs were also paralysed at doses above 5.0 ml per kilogram body weight. From these results it was concluded that the extract had a very wide spectrum of pharmacological activity and that the hypotensive principle(s) acted mainly through blocking autonomic ng1ia and also by a non-specific depressant action on both smooth and skeletal muscles. The resultant lowered tone of the muscles can cause a drop in the blood pressure. The direct cardiac depressant effect of the extract can also partially account for the fall in the blood pressure on administering the extract, since this effect reduces the cardiac output. It is also concluded that the crystalline compound from the extract is probably the muscarinic portion of the extract. Considering the widespread nature of the activity of the extract, with particular reference to actions like the ganglion-blocking actions, together with the observed drop in the arterial blood pressure of the anaesthetised cat caused by the crystals, it was concluded that this fraction only partially accounts for the hypotensive effects of the extract from the dried powdered root of Anthocleita nobilis
- ItemThe Alkaloidal constituent and some Pharmacopoeial Standards of the Stem Bark of Pachypodanthium Staudtii Engl. & Diels.(1985) Heymann, HenryThis thesis is a report on the study of the alkaloidal constituents and some phariacopocial standards of the stem bark of Pachypodanthium staudtii Engi & Diels, a tropical Annonaceae plant. Amongst its several uses in West African folk medicine, P • staudtii is used, together with other ingredients, for the treatment of benign tumours, the plant is also used in the treatment of lower abdominal pains following childbirth. Previous reports on the chemical study of the plant indicate that up to date, a total of 11 alkaloids have been isolated and identified from the stem bark. These alkaloids are all either protoberberines, oxoaporphines or aporphines. Preliminary TIC analysis of the total alkaloid extract indicated the presence of not less than 16 compounds, four of which were successfully isolated. One of these compounds was shown to be the oxoaporphine liriodenine. The second compound was tentatively identified as the tetrahydroprotobeberine discretine whilst the third compound, also a tetrahydroprotoberberine was found to be structurally related to the compounds corypalmine, isocorypalmine and caseanadine. The fourth compound was partia1y identified as either a proaporphine or an aporphine. The phytochemical significance of the isolated compounds is discussed. Also the presence of liriodenine, a cytotoxic agent, is discussed in relation to the folk medicinal use of the plant as an antitumour drug. In the study on some pharmacopoeial standards, the plant material is evaluated in accordance with some of the requirements set out in the pharmacopoeias for the standardization of crude drugs. The following requirements were applied; TLC analysis, Norphography, chemical tots, ethanol and water-Soluble extractives, ash values, moisture content, content of foreign matter and assay for total alkaloids. Upon the basis of the above investigations, both a descriptive and a set of numerical values were obtained for the characterisation of the plant material. These results and the significance of their application to the valuation and standardization of P. staudtii are discussed.
- ItemSome factors contributing to the paucity of yellow fever in the Ashanti Region of Ghana(1988) Esena, Reuben KwasiMosquitoes occurring in an urban and two rural areas of Ashanti were identified in a study to find out why the Ashanti Region of Ghana has nearly always escaped Yellow Fever epidemics that have swept through the country since 1900. Several species of the Yellow Fever mosquitoes were encountered, namely Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti Linnaeus, Aedes (Stegomyia) africanus Theobald, Aedes (Stegomyia) luteocephalus Newstead, Aedes (Stegoiuyia) vittatus Bigot. Other mosquitoes were Culex (Culex) decens Theobald, Culex (Culex) thalassius Theobald, Culex (Lutzia) trigripes Granpre, Anopheles gambiae S.I. and Toxorhynchites brevipalpis Theobald. The mean Aedes mosquito indices throughout the research work were as follows: Biting rate 0.53; House Index 8.85; Container Index 3.67 and Breteau Index 11.45. Although the values are considered capable of promoting the transmission of Yellow Fever, they are remarkably lower than the International Threshold values of Biting rate 2; House Index 35; Container index 20; Breteau Index 50 and therefore unlikely to promote Yellow fever transmission by Aedes aegypti in the urban cycle. Rainfall and Relative Humidity (%) at 1500 hours GMT were remarkably correlated with larval and Biting indices. The low larval indices which may have reflected on the low man—vector contact rates were probably influenced by the vast distribution, resi1nce and predatory propensity of Toxorhynchites brevipalpis. Other minor predators found on the Aedes mosquito were Culex fLutzia) tigripes, Notonecta, Nepa sp. (Water scorpion), Hydrometra (Water Stick), Belostoma (giant water bug) and Lispa (anthomyid fly). Toxorhynchites preferred feeding on Aedes aegypti to other mosquito species such as Culex decens and Anopheles gambiae. No Toxorhynchites were found in other regions bordering Ashanti where Yellow Fever epidemics have been recorded.
- Item“The effect of hormonal contraceptives on some blood parameters of Ghanaian women "(1990) Owiredu, William Kwame Boakye AnsahThe blood profile as well as the blood pressure and weight of hundred and nine healthy women whose age ranged between 21 and 49 years were determined. These values were used as control. The blood profile1 blood pressures and weight of fifty three women aged between 25 and 49 years who have been receiving Depoprovera injections for varying lengths of time ranging between 3 months and 17 years were determined. Significant increases in the mean concentrations of serum Glucose, Alkaline Phosphatase, Aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, Albumen, Systolic and Diastolic blood pressures and weight were obtained. The blood profile, blood pressure and weight of seven women aged between 23 and 50 years who have been receiving Neogynon for varying periods of time ranging from one month to 13 years 5 months were determined. Comparison of these values with the controls showed significant increases in the mean concentration of Plasma Glucose, Total Bilirubin, and blood pressure. The blood profile, blood pressure and weight of 13 women aged between 24 and 39 years who have been receiving Eugynon for varying periods of time ranging from one month to 6 years 3 months were determined. This low dose combined contraceptive did not cause significant changes in any of the parameters determined. The blood profile and blood pressure of 5 women aged between 24 and 40 years who have been receiving Nordette low dose combined contraceptive for varying lengths of time ranging from one month to 1 year 7 months were determined. This preparation caused significant increases in the activity of Aspartate aminotransferase and mean concentration of Albumin. These changes could not be correlated with the dose of ethinyl oestradiol and levonorgestrel in this preparation. Generally the contraceptive acceptors were relatively old and multiparous women of mean age and parity 30.65 years and 4.4 live births respectively.
- ItemSome physico-chemical studies on Griffonin, an anti-sickling agent(1990) Addae-Kyereme, JonathanThis work has defined certain aspects of preformulation that will need to be considered if griffonin an antisickling agent, is to be used as a drug. A relatively more efficient method of isolating griffonin from the dried root bark of Griffonia siuiplicifolia has been worked out. This method takes advantage of the insolubility of griffonin in ethyl acetate. This method is cheaper in terms of solvents used and offers higher yields. The amount of griffonin in the dried root bark of Griffonia simplicifolia has been quantitatively determined. An Infra—red assay method based on the concept of analysis of solids in potassium bromide [KBr] using an internal standard was used. The value obtained was found to be comparable with that given by the improved method of extraction. Partition coefficient studies have been carried out on griffonin. These have shown that griffonin is present as a common species in both water and octanol. The effect of gastric acid on breakdown rate of griffonin has been studied. In vitro kinetic studies based on the Arrhenius equation was applied. It was found that the deleterious effect of gastric acid on griffonin was not enough to prevent its use as a drug to be taken orally. A claim that the cyano group (-CN) in Griffonin can be converted to an amido group (-CONR2) by a hydrolytic process while leaving the rest of the molecule unaltered has been investigated. It involved refluxing a mixture of griffonin and potassium hydroxide (powdered) in a non aqueous medium. A crystalline product with a very high melting point (abo, 360°C) was obtained. However, enough evidence was not obtained from the work to prove the truth or otherwise
- ItemThe antimicrobial activity of extracts of the stem bark of Alstonia Boonei De Wild(1992) Siaw, Ebenezer AduThe antimicrobial activity of the alkaloidal extract of the stem bark of Aistonia boonei De Wild family Apocynaceae (Synonymous: Alstonia congensis Cher & Anbrev), a Ghanaian medicinal plant used in local folklore medicine has been studied. Both in vitro and in vivo activity studies have been carried out. Preliminary TLC analysis of the less basic fraction (Solution A) gave three spots X, Y, Z, using the solvent system:- chloroform: methanol (9:1). TLC analysis of the strongly basic fraction of the extracts (Solution B) yielded four spots, A’, B’, C’ and D’. The solvent system used for TLC analysis was chloroform: acetone: methanol (11:8:1). Spot D’ on a chloroform: acetone (5:4) solvent system gave two further spots E’ and F’. In vitro and in vivo antimicrobial studies were carried out using the Solutions A and B. Weight by weight, Solution B showed more antimicrobial activity than Solution A. There was in vitro inhibition of growth by both Solution A and Solution B in Streptococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis which were used as test micro organisms. The in vivo study of the extracts from the stem back of Alstonia boonei was performed in both rats and day old chicks infected (by inoculation) with a hospital strain of Staphylococcus aureus H512. All the spots obtained by TLC had antimicrobial activity but spectrum of activity was different. Spots A’, B’, E’ and F’ of solution ‘B’ were effective against all the test micro—organisms. Spots C’ was effective against all the test micro—organisms except Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi. Spot Y was effective against all the test micro-organisms while Spot X was effective against all the test micro-organisms except Bacillus subtilis. Spot Z however, was effective against only Salmonella typhi. The Solution ‘B” extract was more effective in the elimination of staphylococcus aureus than the Solution ‘A’ in both rats and chicks.
- ItemIsolation, characterization and classification of non-sporing gram-negative anaerobic bacilli (bacteroidaceae) from pathological specimens(1992) Odoi, Isaiah PatrickBacteroides - Fusobacterium group of Gram-negative non-sporing anaerobic bacilli is known in hospital practice to be potential pathogens but the isolation and precise identification of these organisms are rarely attempt ted in most routine bacteriological laboratories. In my quest to investigate the major Bacteroides species frequently found in wound infections, six hundred and twenty (620) samples from the same number of patients with proven surgical infections were studied by conventional bacteriological methods and analysed. These specimens included pus, body fluids (including post-operative wounds), gingival abscesses and dental plaques taken from infected lesions associated with the mouth, the gastro-intestinal tract, the female genital tract and lower respiratory tract. Rapid anaercbic bacteria identification methods described by Rotimi, et al., 1980 were adopted. These in combination with Tolerance, Antibiotic disk resistance, physical and biochemical tests and a scheme by Duerden, et al., 1980 were employed in the quest to characterize and identify Gram-negative non-sporing anaerobic bacilli isolated from the various specimen sources. For purposes of isolation, samples were seeded on Columbia blood agar, selective Nalidixic Aoid-Vancomycin media and MacConkey agar and were incubated, both anaerobically and aerobically. It was noted that bacterial infections at the sites sampled were poly-microbial in nature. Fifty-five (55) bacterial isolates belonging to the species Bacteroides were identified, giving an isolation rate of 8.8% mostly as mixed cultures. From the mixed cultures could be identified aerobic and facultative anaerobic organisms by conventional methods suggested by Cowan, 1974. On the basis of growth characteristics, biochemical reactions and antibiotic sensitivity patterns, thirty (30) and, twenty five (25) isolates belonging to the Baoteroides fragilis group and the Baoteroidea melaninogenious - oralis group, respectively, were identified. The frequency of isolation of Baoteroides spp. from miscellaneous soft-tissue was 40%. It wan recognised that all the Beoteroides spp. identified tiers sensitive to metronidazole (Fingyl) but resistant to penicillin U. There were three hundred and twenty (320) aerobic and facultativo anaerobic organismt isolated and identified. Staiyloooocus aureus whioh represented 31, 2% of aerobic and feoultative anaerobic bacteria wan recorded. The importance of Baoteroides npp. involvement in post-operative wound infections was discussed. There is evidence that Bacteroides specie end aerobic organisms cooperate (synergistically) in the patho- genesis of Baoteroides spp. infection of wounds. Baoteroidees.-Fuso - bacterium bacilli commonly encountered in bacterial wound infections could be isolated and charaoterised using special media and 5e’t of biochemical tents. The importance of metronidazole (Flagyl) in anaerobic infections and in the control of sepsis complicating acute abdominal end pelvio conditions wan noted. In the study, it wan observed that Bacteroiden epp. played a role in the pãthogenenie of 8eptio surgical wounds. In conclusion it is suggested that further studies involving large numbers of patients in Teaching Hospitals should be recruited into the study, using improved techniques to demonstrate more fully’ the role and significance of anaerobic bacilli in acute abdomen and other surgical conditions seen in Ghana.
- ItemEffect of cryptolepine on some Enterobacteriaceae and possible mechanism of action of Cryptolepine(1992) Sawer, Ishmael KwablaSome members of the Enterobacteriaceae were treated with cryptolepine hydrochloride and varying degrees of growth inhibition was observed. Escherichia coli (NCTC 5933) and laboratory strains of Shigeila dysenteriae, Proteus vulgaris, Klebsieila pneumoniae and Salmonella typhii were all inhibited by the drug. Proteus vulgaris showed the greatest sensitivity (MIC 32.67μg/ml) and Shigeila dysenteriae the least (MIC 76.22.μg/ml). The action appeared to be bacteriostatic in all cases. When cryptolepine hydrochloride was added to exponentially growing E. coil cells the turbidities of the suspensions decreased sharply over the first 24 hour period. Thereafter there was a gradual decrease in turbidity. Increasing the concentration of drug to double the MIC brought about a sharper/steeper fall in optical density of the medium over the 24 hour period. Increasing concentration to three (3) times the MIC however did not produce any appreciable drop in optical density. Addition of Cryptolepine hydrochloride to heat-killed (60°C for 30 minutes) E. coil cultures did not cause a decrease in turbidity. Cryptolepine appears to interfere with the osmotic barrier in the bacteria thus allowing the leakage of minute quantities of some intracellular cell components into the culture medium. Chromatographic analysis of drug-treated culture suspensions appear to indicate that some nucleotide(s) and perhaps other components-are released from the ce!ls under the action of cryptolepine. A component with R value closely resembling that of a purine was seen on chromatogràms of drug-treated cultures run in n-Butanol: Water: NH3 solvent system. When both drug-treated and drug-free E. coil cells were observed under the phase contrast microscope there were some distortions in the protoplast membrane (and perhaps even the cell wall) of the cryptolepine-treated E. coil cells. This appears to suggest that cryptolepine causes some kind of damage to the cell barriers (membranes, walls etc). This damage which may be permanent or transient results in alteration of the permeability characteristics of the cell membranes under the influence of the drug thus allowing the leakage of cell components into the culture medium. Cryptolepine hydrochloride interacts indifferently towards ampicillin, streptomycin and gentamycin, that is, the two sets of drugs act together with neither antagonism nor potentiation.
- ItemEffect of cryptolepine on some enterobacteriaceae and possible mechanism of action of cryptolepine(1992-11-03) Sawer, Ishmael KwablaSome members of the Enterobacteriaceae were treated with cryptolepine hydrochloride and varying degrees of growth inhibition was observed. Escherichia coil (NCTC 5933) and laboratory strains of Shigella dysenteriae, Proteus vulgaris, Klebsieila pneumoniae and Salmonella typhii were all inhibited by the drug. Proteus vulgaris showed the greatest sensitivity (MIC 32.67 µg/ml) and Shigella dysenteriae the least (MIC 76.22µg/ml). The action appeared to be bacteriostatic in all cases. When cryptolepine hydrochloride was added to exponentially growing E. coil cells the turbidities of the suspensions decreased sharply over the first 24 hour period. Thereafter there was a gradual decrease in turbidity. Increasing the concentration of drug to double the MIC brought about a sharper/steeper fall in optical density of the medium over the 24 hour period. Increasing concentration to three (3) times the MIC however did not produce any appreciable drop in optical density. Addition of Cryptolepine hydrochloride to heat-killed (60°C for 30 minutes) E. coli cultures did not cause a decrease in turbidity. Cryptolepine appears to interfere with the osmotic barrier in the bacteria thus allowing the leakage of minute quantities of some intracellular cell components into the culture medium. Chrornatographic analysis of drug-treated culture suspensions appear to indicate that some nucleotide(s) and perhaps other components are released from the bacterial cells under the action of cryptolepine. A component with Rf value closely resembling that of a purine was seen on chromatograms of drug-treated cultures run in n-Butanol: Water: NH3 solvent system. When both drug-treated and drug-free E. coli cells were observed under the phase contrast microscope there were some distortions in the protoplast membrane (and perhaps even the cell wall) of the cryptolepine-treated E. coli cells. This appears to suggest that cryptolepine causes some kind of damage to the cell barriers (membranes, walls etc). This damage which may be permanent or transient results in alteration of the permeability characteristics of the cell membranes under the influence of the drug thus allowing the leakage of cell components into the culture medium. Cryptolepine hydrochloride interacts indifferently towards am ampicillin, streptomycin and gentamycin, that is, the two sets of drugs act together with neither antagonism nor potentiation.
- ItemIsolation, identification and some chemical biological studies on compound funifenne from Tillacora Funifera (Menispermaceae) and Isolation, characterization and some chemical studies of the constituents of the plant Warbugia Salutaris (Canellaceae)(1993) Owusu-Dapaah, GeorgeA review of tumours and antitumour agents have been included in the work. Bisbenzylisoquinolines as a whole have been reviewed and special emphasis has been placed on the bisbenzylisoquinolines from Tiliacora and Triclisia species. A detail review has also been presented on funiferine. Physico-chemical analysis has been carried out on funiferine and this included partition coefficient, pKa and rate of quaternization determinations. Two derivatives of funiferine, 0-methyl and 0-Isopropyl derivatives were synthesized. The Brine shrimp lethality Bioassay has been carried out on funiferine, 00methylfuniferine and 0-isopropylfuniferine as a preliminary cytotoxicity test. The structure-activity relationship of these related compounds have been established and in the order. 0-isopropylfuniferine > 0-methylfuniferine > funiferine.
- ItemChanges in electrolyte and lipid metabolism of hypertensive patients in Komfo Anokye Teaching hospital following the administration of anti-hypertensive drugs(1993) Ngala, Robert AmaduSerum levels of total cholesterol, Low density lipoproteins (LDL), high density lipoproteins (HDL), Calcium, Potassium and sodium were estimated in 140 newly diagnosed patients of essential hypertension. Serum levels of these same parameters were also estimated in an equal number of normotensives serving as control group matching age to age and sex to sex. A follow up study was done on 64 of the hypertensive patients. This study was conducted at the Komfo Anokye Teaching hospital Kumasi, with the bulk of the patients coming from within the city and its surrounding towns. Cholesterol was estimated using the enzymatic method. (Reagents constituted by bio-merioux were used). Flame emission technique (CORNING 405) was used to assay the electrolytes. The o-cresolpthalein complexone method was used to assay for calcium. Serum levels of urea and creatinine were also determined using the diacetylmonoxime and Jaffe reactions respectively. The results showed a positive correlation between Total cholesterol, LDL and age with diastolic blood pressure for both patients and control group and a weak negative correlation between serum levels of HDL and age with diastolic blood pressure. A significant difference in the level of total cholesterol between hypertensives and normotensives was observed. No statistically significant difference was observed in LDL and HDL levels between hypertensives positive correlations were demonstrated betweenserum sodium and calcium levels with diastolic blood pressure, whilst a weaker correlation existed between potassium levels and diastolic blood pressure. Thirteen out of the 140 patients studied developed renal failure with a mean sodium level of 129.77 ±2.78mmol/L. The subjects responded rapidly to the management using a combination of diuretics, sympathetic nervous acting agents; receptor blockers and vasodilators. Though their blood pressures returned to the normal base line, their cholesterol and LDL levels remained high above the norinotensive range. No significant difference was found in the serum electrolyte level between the treated hypertensives and control group. A strong positive correlation was shown between serum total cholesterol; LDL levels, and essential hypertension. A weak correlation was established for the serum electrolytes level with blood pressure, whilst an inverse correlation between diastolic blood pressure and HDL levels was established.
- ItemReference limits of five major reproductive hormones for some Ghanaian women of child bearing age(1993) Martey, Georgina Naa-OyeThe need to provide a set of reference limits applicable to a laboratory arises when a new method is introduced or the values being used do not define the population, due to socioeconomic, genetic, cultural and environmental differences. This study aimed at establishing the laboratories own set of reference limits for the homones LH, FSH, PRL, E2, and Progesterone, to aid in diagnosis and treatment of reproductive endocrinopathies, and also, serve as the basis for epidemiological studies. From the two medical schools in the country, 85 randomly selected healthy females aged 17 to 45 years, (X=28.9± 6.8yr), with cycle length of 26 to 32 days (X=28.35±l .4dy), were choosen in the ratio of 1:2:6 from upper:middle:lower income earning groups. The response rate of the study was good (82%). Blood samples were taken on calculated days during the FP, MC and LP of their menstrual cycles. Serum levels of the hormones LH, FSH,E2 and progesterone were determined on the samples obtained from each phase of the cycle, while PRL levels were estimated on only the FP samples, using ELISA commercial kits from Biomerieux (France). The intra-assay precision for E2=2.3%, PRL=2.3%, LH=2.4%, P2.1% and FSH2.4%. The inter-assay precision for LFI=5.1%, FSH=5.4% PRL=5.0%, E2=6.0% and P9.0%. All the precisions fell within the recommended limits for the provision of Clinical Biochemical services for hormonal assays. Using the non-parametric binomial probability method, and the parametric method, 95% reference limits accomanied by 70% and 90% CI respectively, were established for all the hormones, during the various phases of the cycle. The percentiles obtained from both methods were then compared for statistical difference at p<0.00. Where the assumption of a Gaussian distribution held good, there was no difference between the reference limits obtained by either method. The inadequate sample size and the wide CI around the non-parametric percentiles reduced their precision and clinical usefulness. For this reason, the parametric estimates were being recommended for use. In comparison of the established reference limits for 95% of the population, to that of literature values established on Caucasians, it was realized that the average Ghanaian of child bearing age had relatively higher basal hormone levels than her Caucasian counterpart. The recommended 95% reference limits and 90% CI are: At P<0.05, weak correlations (all less than 0.5) existed in trends consistent with literature between age and PRL (r = -0.25), age and FP E2 (r = -0.22), PRL and MC LH (r = -0.25), FP E2 and MC E2 (r = 0.23), MC E2 and LP E2 (r =0.34). The established PRL limits were used as a tool for health screening for hyper-PRL among refferals to the laboratory in 22 months. A prevalence of 9.4% was found. Of 673 requests for PRL, 20.36% were hyper-PRL. Amenorrhoea was the most common presenting symptom (29.27%) with 19.8% having hyper-PRL, and they formed the majority of the hyper-PRL cases (28.47%). Galactorrhea which is used as a prominent sign of hyper-PRL was the least presented symptom (16.79%) among the referrals with requests for PRL determinations, and 23.9% of them had hyper-PRL. It was also found to be the least prevalent symptom in the hyper-PRL population of the study (19.77%). It can however not be conclusively said that the elevated PRL levels are all pathological, nor are an ovulation or defects in folliculogenesis the sole causes of the above symptoms. Comparing the various prevalence’s with literature, it was realized that hyper-PRL may not be a prominent causative agent of infertility in the population. Generally, the results of this study are unique to the University of Ghana medical school endocrinology laboratory, and will be appropriate to the Ghanaian woman of child bearing age who gets access to the laboratory.
- ItemStudies on some aspects of the biology of the intermediate hosts of Dracunculus Medinensis (Linnaeus) in Tamale Municipality, Northern Region, Ghana(1993) Yelifari, LawrenceThe study was to identify the various species of cyclopoid copepods in six reservoirs in the Tamale Municipality suspected as transmission sites, and to determine which of the species acts as the intermediate host of dracunculiasis as well as the infection rates of this host. The seasonal and diurnal fluctuations of the cyclopoid copepod populations, the prevalence of dracunculiasis in the area as well as the physical characteristics such as temperature, pH, conductivity, and turbidity of the various reservoirs were also studied. The study was carried out in six artificial water reservoirs which are large enough to survive severe drought in the area. The reservoirs are situated in Adubiliyili, Kalariga, Lahagu, Tampion, Vittin and Zuo villages and are all within thirty kilometer radius from Tamale, Northern Region of Ghana. They are the most common type of water source for the rural communities in this part of the country. Seven species and two subspecies of cyclopoid copepods were found in the study area. Six of these were species/subspecies of Thermocyclops, two were species of Mesocyclops and one was species of Cryptocyclops. The cyclopoid copepods found are: Thermocyclops emini, Thermocyclops crassus consimilis, Thermocyclops incisus, Thermocyclops inopinus, Thermocyclops neglectus deci p1 ens, Mesocyclops kieferi, Mesocyclops major, Mesocyclops ogunnus, and Cryptocyclops linjanticus. Only three of the reservoirs, namely Kalariga, Lahagu and Tampion, were found to have infected cyclopoid copepods. Infection rates varied between 0.05% and 0.3%. The infected cyclopoids were T. incisus, T. inopinus, T. n. decipiens, and M. kieferi. The prevalence rates of Guinea worm disease from June 1991 to May 1992 for Adubiliyili, Kalariga, Lahagu, Tampion, Vittin and Zuo were 3.1%, 4.9%, 8.7%, 4.7%, 2.7%, and 1.8% respectively. The study showed that variations in cyclopoid copepod populations throughout the year differed in the six reservoirs. Two peaks of cyclopoid copepod populations were observed in Adubiliyili, one before the rains and one shortly after the rains. Kalariga had high populations of cyclopoid copepods before the peak of the rains and low populations during the dry season. The variation in cyclopoid copepod populations in Lahagu was rather erratic with low populations in the dry season. One peak of cyclopoid copepod population was noted at the onset of the rainy season in Tampion. Low population numbers were recorded in Vittin during the peak of the rainy season. The variations in the cyclopoid copepod population in Zuo reservoir were rather erratic and with no clear seasonal pattern. There was a strong positive correlation between the occurrence of high populations of cyclopoids copepods and the prevalence of guinea worm disease. The occurrence of high population densities of cyclopoid copepods during the dry season and at the onset of the rainy season coincided with the high prevalence of guinea worm disease in the surrounding villages. Transmission of dracunculiasis thus appears to occur predominantly during the dry season and the onset of the rainy season (March to July). The amplitude of variation in the physico-chemical factors was very low; there were apparently some correlations between these variations and the changes in cyclopoid copepod populations. Diurnal variation of cyclopoid copepod populations showed two peaks in the dry and hot seasons; the first peak occurred between 08.00 hours to 10.00 hours GMT and the second from 16.00 hours to 18.00 hours GMT. In the rainy season, only one peak occurred at 16.00 to 18.00 hours GMT. Inhabitants, who fetch water during the dry and hot season from the Vittin reservoir, collect water mostly in the morning between the hours of 09.30 to 10.30 and in the evening between 16.00 and 18.00 hours GMT. In the wet season collection of water is mostly done in the evenings. There was thus a positive coincidence between the time of water fetching by the inhabitants and the peaks of the diurnal cyclopoid copepod populations.
- ItemPreliminary investigations into coconut juice from Ghanaian species as a potential replacement therapy(1993) Nkansah, Peter AppahThe biochemical composition of fresh coconut juice has been investigated for its amino acid, sugar and mineral ion contents. The coconut samples analysed, obtained from four different varieties of Cocos nucifra were of three different age groups; the young, intermediate and mature nuts, having approximate ages of six, nine and twelve months respectively. The young coconuts had the highest concentrations of glucose (1.966 - 2.233g1100ml), fructose (2.041 - 3.225g/l00ml), potassium (63.2 - 78.8mmol/L), calcium (4.4 - 6.9mmol/L) and chloride ion (58.0 - 78.5mmol/L) whilst the mature coconuts had the highest concentrations of amino acids (0.349 - 0.570g/l00ml), sucrose (1.269 - 1.977g/l00ml) and sodium (6.5 - 21.8mmol/L). In comparison to the WHO-ORS solution, the juice is generally low in sodium and chloride but relatively rich in sugars, amino acids, potassium and calcium. Bicarbonates and citrates were absent in the juice. The fresh juice is acidic. Theoretically, coconut juice may not be suitable for use in Oral Rehydration Therapy due to its low sodium and high potassium contents. However, a controlled clinical trial is recommended to assess its therapeutic efficacy.
- ItemIsolation, identification and some chemical and biological studies on the compound funiferine from Tiliacora Funifera (Menispermaceae) and isolation, characterization and some chemical studies of the constituents of the plant Warbugia Salutaris (Canellaceae)(1993-11-08) Owusu-Dapaah, GeorgeA review of tumors and antitumor agents have been included in the work. Bisbenzylisoquinolines as a whole have been reviewed and special emphasis have been placed on the bisbenzylisoquinolines from Tiliacora and Triclisia species. A detail review have also been presented on funiferine. Physico-chemical analysis have been carried out on funiferine and this included partition coefficient, pKa and rate of quaternization determinations. Two derivatives of funiferine, 0-methyl and 0-Isopropyl derivatives, were synthesized. The Brine shrimp lethality Bioassay has been carried out on funiferine, 0-methylfuniferine and 0-isopropylfuniferine as a preliminary cytotoxicity test. The structure-activity relationship of these related compounds have been established and in the order. 0—isopropylfuniferine > 0—methylfuniferine > funiferine.
- ItemIsolation and physico-chemical studies on some alkaloids of cryptolepis sanguinolenta (periplocaceae)(1993-11-13) Sarpong, Francis MainooThe root and stem extract of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta has long been used for the treatment of various ailments in the West African sub-region. This research piece seeks to investigate and establish certain physic-chemical properties of these alkaloids after their isolation. The alkaloids were isolated by both column and preparative thin layer chromatography. The structures of both cryptolepine and quindoline were confirmed by comparison of data obtained to those obtained by earlier workers. The structure of the third alkaloid CSA—3 was elucidated for the first time. The dissociation constant (pKa) of cryptolepine, was determined both spectrophotometrically and titrimetrically. The pKa of CSA-3 and quindoline were determined titriinetrically. The partition coefficients of the alkaloids were determined in octanol-buffer and octanol-water systems. The solubilities of cryptolepine and quindoline in octanol were determined. That of cryptolepine heptane and hexane was also investigated. However, cryptolepine was found to be insoluble in the non-polar solvents. The indicator properties of cryptolepine was investigated and established. Boric acid was successfully assayed using cryptolepine indicator. In non-aqueous titrations, the use of cryptolepine as an indicator was not feasible.