Orapuh Journal

Mineral composition and secondary metabolites in the leaves of Lophira lanceolata (Ochnaceae) from Bondo City in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

2025-10-03T18:30:58+02:00

Introduction

Many nutrient-rich plants remain underutilised in the diets of sub-Saharan populations, particularly in the Bondo area of northern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It is therefore necessary to valorise them through appropriate laboratory investigations.

Purpose

This study focused on Lophira lanceolata to investigate the phytochemical composition and mineral content of its leaves.

Method

Standard chemical screening and atomic absorption spectrometry were employed to assess phytochemical composition and mineral content, respectively.

Results

Leaves were collected approximately 54 km from Bondo City. Phytochemical screening revealed flavonoids (flavones) at 12.7 ± 0.31%, terpenes at 2.49 ± 0.23%, saponins at 0.65 ± 0.02%, and sterols at 0.60 ± 0.05%. Gallic tannins and alkaloids were detected but not quantified. The loss on drying was 10.70 ± 0.35% and the total ash content was 5.90 ± 0.11%. Mineral analysis indicated high concentrations of iron (15.63 ± 0.15%), sulfur (13.85 ± 0.11%), and silicon (5.25 ± 0.02%), along with moderate levels of zinc (3.47 ± 0.56%), calcium (2.68 ± 0.01%), potassium (1.89 ± 0.04%), phosphorus (0.80 ± 0.001%), copper (0.61 ± 0.02%), and trace titanium (<0.24%). The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (3.35) suggests potential use in livestock nutrition, particularly during the dry season.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that Lophira lanceolata leaves from Bondo are a rich source of bioactive compounds and essential minerals, supporting their traditional use against anaemia, infections, hypertension, and inflammatory conditions. The presence of silicon and sulfur suggests additional benefits for bone health, dermatological conditions, and pest resistance. These results highlight the plant’s potential applications in phytotherapy, veterinary medicine, and agro-nutrition.

Post-marketing surveillance of doxycycline hyclate capsules used in self-medication in the Maluku I Health Zone, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

2025-10-11T18:33:01+02:00

Introduction

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, self-medication is a common practice, particularly with antibiotics such as doxycycline hyclate. This raises concerns about safety and efficacy in the absence of medical prescriptions and therapeutic monitoring.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to survey pharmacy sellers regarding the most requested antibiotics for self-medication, according to the WHO AWaRe classification, and to evaluate the quality of the most commonly used antibiotic for self-medication in the Maluku I Health Zone. This zone was chosen because it is a border and porous area with potential for smuggling and illicit drug sales, as part of post-marketing surveillance.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among sellers in 101 of 116 pharmacies in a peri-urban area of Kinshasa. The study focused on antibiotics used in self-medication, followed by quality control tests conducted according to the USP–NF 2024 pharmacopoeial standards on 12 different batches of doxycycline hyclate.

Results

The results showed that 87.06% of vendors participated in the survey, including 84.2% males and 15.8% females, with a mean age of 39.51 ± 9.84 years. Regarding educational level, 47.5% had Bac+0, 40.6% Bac+3, 7.9% Bac+5, and 4.0% other qualifications. In terms of training, 59.4% had studied nursing, while only 2% had studied pharmaceutical sciences. Doxycycline capsules were the most requested antibiotic in the Access category (89.1%), while chloramphenicol capsules were the least used (26.7%). Of the analysed batches, 41.7% had compliant marketing authorisations, 16.7% were unregistered, and 41.7% had non-compliant authorisations. All (100%) batches passed the identification and dissolution tests. However, 25% failed the mass uniformity test, while 58.3% passed the assay test and 41.7% failed.

Conclusion

Regular post-marketing surveillance is necessary to protect consumers from substandard products, given the high rate of under-dosed medicines found in circulation.

Investigating the quality of marketed Azithromycin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A case of tablets in the city of Kisangani

2025-10-13T18:33:26+02:00

Introduction

Azithromycin is an antibiotic belonging to the macrolide family. It is widely used in the management of infectious diseases caused by both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as certain aerobic infections. During the COVID-19 outbreak, its use increased in many countries as part of disease management protocols. Unfortunately, this surge was associated with the introduction of counterfeit products on the market. This drug remains widely circulated, particularly in the far north of Kisangani Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the quality of marketed Azithromycin tablets available in the region of Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Methods

To achieve this goal, appropriate physicochemical analyses were conducted to verify product quality through organoleptic, pharmaco-technical, qualitative, and quantitative assessments. A total of 14 samples from seven different laboratories (two batches from each) were collected. The study adopted a cross-sectional laboratory-based design using UV-Vis spectrophotometry and HPLC techniques. Data were statistically analysed using the Student’s t-test method.

Results

Analyses yielded satisfactory results for 100% of the samples, which were consistent with survey findings and confirmed the effectiveness and reliability of Azithromycin-based treatment, except for one sample (Zithromcin, batches 1 and 2) that failed the friability test. This non-conforming result represented less than 20% of the total sample size.

Conclusion

The study results align with those obtained from the survey. We recommend that regulatory authorities use similar analytical tests and trials for drug approval processes and the classification of high-monitoring drugs. The analytical methods implemented in this research can serve as reference procedures for routine quality control of this macrolide antibiotic.

Risk factors associated with tonsillar hypertrophy in sickle cell patients followed at the Centre for Mixed Medicine and Sickle Cell Anaemia in Kinshasa

2025-10-15T18:34:05+02:00

Introduction

Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic disorder worldwide, primarily affecting individuals of African, Mediterranean, and Asian descent. Previous studies have reported that patients with sickle cell disease are predisposed to tonsillar hypertrophy as a result of compensatory immune responses to functional asplenia and recurrent infections.

Purpose

The main objective of this study was to determine the frequency of tonsillar hypertrophy in sickle cell patients followed at our centre and to identify the associated risk factors.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted at the Centre for Mixed Medicine and Sickle Cell Anaemia (CMMASS), Kinshasa, from September 2022 to February 2023. The sample comprised homozygous SS sickle cell patients aged six years and above who were followed up at CMMASS. The size of the palatine tonsils was assessed according to Friedman’s criteria. Data were analysed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Associations between variables were tested using the chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 123 patients with sickle cell disease participated in the study, with a median age of 15 years (range: 6–50 years). Females accounted for 58.5% of participants. The prevalence of tonsillar hypertrophy was 57.7%. Treatment without hydroxyurea (adjusted OR = 10.53 [1.74–63.59]; p = 0.010), presence of jaundice (adjusted OR = 4.21 [1.33–13.39]; p = 0.015), and haemoglobin ≤ 7.9 g/dL (adjusted OR = 7.55 [2.85–19.99]; p = 0.001) were identified as factors significantly associated with tonsillar hypertrophy among sickle cell patients.

Conclusions

Tonsillar hypertrophy is common among sickle cell patients in our setting. Addressing the associated risk factors identified in this study could help reduce its frequency.

Epidemiological features, management, and consequences of sexual abuse at the General Reference Hospital of N’djili (Kinshasa/DRC)

2025-10-21T17:37:35+02:00

Introduction

Sexual violence is a major public health issue with immeasurable consequences for survivors. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), sexual violence is strongly linked to armed conflicts, particularly in the eastern regions, where several studies have been conducted. However, less is known about the situation in the western part of the country.

Purpose

This study aimed to describe the epidemiological features, management, and health outcomes of sexual violence cases at the N’djili General Reference Hospital (HGR N’djili).

Methods

This was a retrospective descriptive study involving 483 consecutive survivors of sexual violence received at HGR N’djili between January 1 and December 31, 2021. Data were analysed using SPSS version 21. Qualitative variables were expressed as percentages, and quantitative variables as means with standard deviations.

Results

The mean age of survivors was 15.1 ± 5.4 years. The prevalence was higher among women (99.2%) than men. Rape was the main type of sexual violence (84.7%). The perpetrators had a mean age of 24.3 ± 10.2 years; 96% were male, of whom 82.4% were known to the victims (39.9% boyfriends, 20.1% neighbours, and 6.8% family members). Unintended pregnancies were recorded in 7.9% of cases, and HIV testing was positive in seven victims (1.5% of 475 tests performed). Victims were mainly referred to the care centre by the Public Prosecutor’s Office (37.7%) and the Congolese National Police (32.9%).

Conclusion

Sexual violence remains a serious public health problem, given the associated health outcomes, including sexually transmitted infections, HIV infection, hepatitis B virus, and unintended pregnancies. The survivors were mainly women and minors.

Anatomical variations of the cecum and vermiform appendix: Basis for a new nomenclature for McBurney’s points

2025-10-21T18:35:25+02:00

Introduction

Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies worldwide, resulting from inflammation of the vermiform appendix attached to the cecum. Although pain is classically localised at McBurney’s point, the lack of consensus regarding its precise position, as highlighted by the studies of Karim and Naraysing, continues to fuel diagnostic and surgical debate. These uncertainties emphasise the need for a clearer understanding of the anatomical variations of the cecum and appendix to improve clinical accuracy and surgical outcomes.

Purpose

To describe and analyse anatomical variations of the cecum and vermiform appendix in order to assess their topographical and clinical implications. It is hypothesised that these variations influence the location of McBurney's point and may affect diagnostic accuracy and surgical planning. The study also aims to propose a standardised anatomical nomenclature for McBurney's point, which could enhance its clinical and surgical relevance.

Methods

A prospective descriptive study on the vermiform appendix was conducted between January 2017 and December 2022 in three hospitals in Kinshasa. The sample comprised 160 patients, selected by non-probability convenience sampling, who underwent midline infra-umbilical laparotomy. Intraoperative observations were collected, entered into Excel, and analysed using SPSS v20.0. Proportions were compared using the chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

In the study population (n = 160), females predominated (115; 71.9%, sex ratio = 2.56), and younger subjects were overrepresented, with the 11–20-year age group being the most frequent (60; 37.5%). The iliac position of the cecum was the most common (95; 59.4%), and a mobile cecum was observed in 124 cases (77.7%). The appendiceal base corresponded to the midpoint of McBurney’s line in 52 patients (32.5%). The appendix was mainly cylindrical (129; 80.6%), with a length between 7 and 12 cm in 86 patients (53.8%). The iliac position of the cecum predominated among patients aged 3–22 years (57; 35.6%), with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.023).

Conclusion

The study confirms the anatomical variability of the cecum and appendix. The cecum was predominantly mobile in the right iliac fossa, and the appendix, cylindrical and of medium length, often adopted a descending position. The appendicular base projected mainly on the umbilical–spinal line, justifying the use of the terms mid umbilical–spinal point and lateral umbilical–spinal point. These findings support promoting the laparoscopic approach to improve appendicitis management and reduce complications associated with anatomical variations.

Localization of abdominal pain in uncomplicated appendicitis: Diagnostic value of McBurney and Lanz points in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

2025-10-22T18:35:32+02:00

Introduction

Acute appendicitis is the leading cause of abdominal surgical emergencies, occurring most frequently among adolescents and young adults. Its diagnosis remains primarily clinical, based on the presence of localized pain with a positive McBurney’s sign.

Purpose

To assess the diagnostic value of McBurney and Lanz points in localising abdominal pain in patients with uncomplicated appendicitis, comparing their sensitivity, specificity, and concordance with the histologically confirmed diagnosis.

Methods

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in two hospitals in Kinshasa: the Sino-Congolese Friendship Hospital and the Bon Berger Hospital Centre. It aimed to localise abdominal pain in uncomplicated appendicitis. Non-probability convenience sampling included 154 patients hospitalised between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2020. Participants presented with abdominal pain suggestive of uncomplicated appendicitis, and diagnosis was confirmed through histological examination of the appendectomy specimen. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20.0, with a 95% confidence interval and a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results

Females constituted the majority of the study population (n = 120; 77.9%), with a sex ratio of 3.52. The 19–28 age group was the most represented (n = 68; 44.2%), with a 95% CI of 36.4%–52.0% and a non-significant p = 0.15. The mean age was 23.3 years. Pain in the right iliac fossa was the most common presentation (n = 148; 96.1%). Pain at McBurney’s point (PMBM) was observed in 138 patients (89.6%; 95% CI [84.7%, 94.5%]), followed by pain at the point midway between McBurney and Lanz (PMBL) in 128 patients (83.1%; 95% CI [77.0%, 89.2%]), and Lanz’s point in 107 patients (69.5%; 95% CI [61.9%, 77.1%]). p < 0.001 was considered highly significant.

Conclusion

Clinical examination remains essential in the diagnosis of appendicitis, with right iliac fossa pain as the principal symptom. Although McBurney’s and Lanz’s points are frequently used, they demonstrate limited sensitivity and specificity. The findings suggest that combining these anatomical landmarks with other clinical parameters may improve diagnostic accuracy and support more effective patient management.

Knowledge of nurse educators working in higher education regarding the “Undetectable = Untransmissible” concept in HIV care: A scoping review

2025-10-22T18:35:31+02:00

Introduction

The Undetectable = Untransmissible (U=U) concept, which emphasises sustained HIV viral suppression through effective antiretroviral therapy, has gained global acceptance. However, awareness and understanding of U=U among nurse educators, particularly within academic healthcare institutions, remain limited. This study aims to assess nurse educators’ understanding of HIV, specifically in relation to the U=U concept, within academic healthcare settings.

Purpose

This scoping review aimed to evaluate the current knowledge of nurse educators working in higher education regarding the U=U concept in HIV care.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using English-language keywords across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, and ProQuest. The search focused on publications published between January 2010 and April 2025. The review followed the Arksey and O’Malley framework and adhered to PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

Results

A total of 38 articles were identified as potentially eligible for inclusion. However, 30 were excluded after full-text screening for reasons such as incorrect topic, setting, outcome, population, or publication year. Consequently, eight articles met the inclusion criteria. Four major themes emerged: curriculum development and implementation; knowledge and beliefs about U=U; communication barriers; and strategies for improvement.

Conclusion

Academic healthcare institutions should empower nurse educators with structured training programmes on HIV-related topics, enabling them to educate students effectively and help reduce new infections and stigma. This review highlights barriers to implementation and identifies effective strategies for enhancing U=U education in nursing, bridging the gap between policy and practical application.