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Wogayehu B, Demissie T, Wolka E, Alemayehu M, Daka K. Individual and community-level factors associated with khat ( Catha edulis) use among women of reproductive age in Halaba zone, South Ethiopia: a multilevel mixed effect analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1333556. [PMID: 38439793 PMCID: PMC10910081 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1333556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a paucity of data on factors associated with khat chewing among women of reproductive age using multilevel analysis. Furthermore, the effects of some potential factors like stressful life events, knowledge about and attitude toward the effects of khat have been given little attention and are not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and multilevel factors associated with khat use among women of reproductive age in Halaba zone, South Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross sectional study was conducted in Halaba zone from February to July, 2023. Systematic random sampling technique was used to include 1573 study participants. The dependent variable was current khat use, which is operationalized as using khat within 30 days preceding the study. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used for the data collection. Results The prevalence of current khat use among women of reproductive age was 65.9% [95%CI (63.5-68.2%)]. Factors significantly associated with khat use were; ages of women 35 and above years [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 6.35, 95% CI: (3.62, 11.13)], ever married [AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: (1.10, 5.31)], secondary and above education [AOR = 0.28, 95% CI: (0.15, 0.49)], belong to richer household [AOR = 1.75, 95% CI: (1.12, 2.75)], mass media use [AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: (1.85, 4.81)], low knowledge about khat effects [AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: (1.85, 5.24)], positive attitude towards khat use [AOR = 11.55, 95% CI: (6.76, 19.71)], and strong social support [AOR = 0.43, 95% CI: (0.28, 0.64)] and non-user friend [AOR = 0.31, 95% CI: (0.20, 0.48)]. From the community level variables: rural residence [AOR = 5.06, 95% CI: (1.82, 14.09)] was significantly associated with khat use. Conclusion Khat use among women of reproductive age was found to be very high. From individual-level factors: advanced ages of women, secondary and above education, live in the richer wealth quintile, mass media exposure, low knowledge on khat effects, positive attitude towards khat use, strong social support, and from community-level variables: residing in rural area were significantly associated with khat use. Khat use screening for all women of childbearing age, as well as referral to substance use disorder centers for those women identified as having khat use disorder, should become a standard of care in all health facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biruk Wogayehu
- Department of Public Health, Arbaminch College of Health Sciences, Arbaminch, South Region, Ethiopia
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
| | - Tsegaye Demissie
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
| | - Eskinder Wolka
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
| | - Mekuriaw Alemayehu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Kassa Daka
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
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Arab AO, Alasmari F, Albaker AB, Alhazmi HA, Alameen AA, Alagail NM, Alwaeli SA, Rizwan Ahamad S, AlAsmari AF, AlSharari SD. Clavulanic Acid Improves Memory Dysfunction and Anxiety Behaviors through Upregulating Glutamatergic Transporters in the Nucleus Accumbens of Mice Repeatedly Exposed to Khat Extract. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15657. [PMID: 37958641 PMCID: PMC10648086 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Khat (Catha edulis) is an evergreen shrub whose buds and leaves give a state of delight and euphoria when chewed. Cathinone, an amphetamine-like stimulant that is among the active ingredients in khat, is able to downregulate glutamate transporter subtype I (GLT-1). Neurobehavioral dysfunctions such as altered locomotor activity, anorexia, and nociception have been observed in animals exposed to cathinone. Interestingly, treatment with a β-lactam antibiotic such as ceftriaxone, which upregulates GLT-1, normalizes cathinone-induced conditioned place preference, and alters repetitive movements in rats. However, little is known about the role of the glutamatergic system in memory dysfunction and anxiety-like behaviors in mice exposed to khat. We found here that clavulanic acid, a β-lactam-containing compound and GLT-1 upregulator, would modulate the neurobehavioral changes, including memory impairment and anxiety-like behaviors, associated with repeated exposure of mice to khat. Our data supported that clavulanic acid could improve memory impairment and anxiety-like behaviors through upregulating GLT-1 in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), an effect abolished with a selective GLT-1 blocker. This upregulation was associated with restored glutamate/cystine antiporter expression in the NAc using a Western blotting assay. Cathine and cathinone were identified in khat extract using the gas chromatography technique. Our work provides preclinical insight into the efficacy of β-lactam-containing compounds for the attenuation of neurobehavioral changes induced by khat exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal O. Arab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fawaz Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Awatif B. Albaker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A. Alhazmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Alnoor Alameen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naser M. Alagail
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A. Alwaeli
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Rizwan Ahamad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah F. AlAsmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shakir D. AlSharari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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SHI H, XU B, XU C, ZHOU X, XU H. [Rapid extraction and detection of five alkaloids in dried khat by solvent extraction-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry]. Se Pu 2023; 41:771-780. [PMID: 37712541 PMCID: PMC10507533 DOI: 10.3724/sp.j.1123.2023.03009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Khat is a common plant that grows primarily in Eastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Cathinone, norpseudoephedrine, and norephedrine are the main psychoactive components of khat. Experimental studies have shown that red and green khat have similar cathinone contents, but green khat contains more norpseudoephedrine and norephedrine than red khat. Research indicates that Ethiopians believe that red khat has stronger psychoactive effects than green khat. Therefore, we speculated that other substances in red khat may enhance its psychoactive effects. Using the sampling method, we identified two other psychoactive components in khat: methcathinone and ethcathinone. At present, only a few studies on the extraction and detection of alkaloids from khat have been published in China, and no reports on the extraction and detection of methcathinone and ethcathinone from khat are available. In this study, we established an extraction and detection method for five alkaloids in dried khat using high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF MS). To establish the extraction method, we optimized the extraction solvent and process. The amounts of dichloromethane and sodium hydroxide added during the purification step were also optimized. To establish the detection method, we optimized the chromatographic and MS conditions. The final extraction and detection method was as follows: Dried khat powder (0.1 g) was loaded into a polypropylene centrifuge tube, added with 1 mL of 0.05 mol/L hydrochloride aqueous solution, and vortex-oscillated for 3 min for extraction. The sample was centrifuged at 10000 r/min for 3 min. Next, 600 μL of the supernatant was placed in a centrifuge tube, added with 1 mL of dichloromethane, shaken for 1 min, and centrifuged at 10000 r/min for 3 min. Subsequently, 300 μL of the supernatant was placed in a centrifuge tube, added with 80 μL of 1 mol/L sodium hydroxide aqueous solution, shaken for 1 min, and added with 1 mL of acetonitrile. Vortex oscillation was performed for 2 min to extract the sample, after which solid sodium chloride (0.4 g) was added to the mixture, followed by shaking for 1 min to separate the acetonitrile and aqueous phases. The mixture was then centrifuged at 10000 r/min for 3 min. Finally, the supernatant was collected and diluted for further testing. The five target analytes were separated on a ZORBAX Eclipse Plus Phenyl-Hexyl column (100 mm×3.0 mm, 1.8 μm) via gradient elution using 0.1% acetic acid aqueous solution and acetonitrile as mobile phases with a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min and column temperature of 30 ℃. The analytes were identified using the targeted MS/MS method under positive electrospray ionization mode and quantified using the external standard method. The five alkaloids showed good correlations (all correlation coefficients (r2)≥0.9976) with their respective linear ranges. The limits of detection were between 0.08 and 0.75 μg/L, and the limits of quantification were between 0.25 and 2.50 μg/L. The average recoveries of the five alkaloids from two plants with different alkaloid contents were between 90.7% and 105.2%. The intra-sample precision ranged from 0.5% to 2.3%, the intra-day precision was between 1.0% and 2.5%, and the inter-day precision was between 1.3% and 3.3%. Using the developed method, we extracted and analyzed 15 khat samples, and detected five alkaloids. This method enables rapid sample pretreatment and has high sensitivity, good stability, and suitable accuracy. Based on the above results, we conclude that the proposed method meets the inspection and identification requirements for khat. Thus, it can provide a valuable reference for the physical and chemical identification of khat and support for further studies on its psychoactive components.
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Teji Roba K, Brewis A, Manning M, Hassen JY. Parental khat use and early childhood growth status in Eastern Ethiopia. Nutr Health 2023; 29:389-393. [PMID: 36591937 DOI: 10.1177/02601060221148898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adult chewing of the stimulant plant khat (Catha edulis) has an unclear relationship with child growth outcomes. Contradictory study conclusions because habitual khat chewing covary with increased household income from khat production. AIM Disentangling the association of parental khat use, household khat production, and child nutritional status and growth markers. METHODS Bayesian analysis was applied to survey data for 2340 households containing 2760 children aged 24-60 months in a population-representative geographic sampling of two districts in Eastern Ethiopia, a khat chewing and producing region. RESULTS Stunting effects were more evident than wasting; the negative child growth effect of khat chewing persisted regardless of household khat production; maternal chewing particularly mattered for child growth delays. CONCLUSIONS This exploratory analysis suggests that future studies should target the interactions of khat chewing practices with gendered performances of child care/feeding responsibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kedir Teji Roba
- Haramaya University College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Alexandra Brewis
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Mason Manning
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
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Mechlowitz K, Singh N, Li X, Chen D, Yang Y, Rabil A, Cheraso AJ, Ahmed IA, Amin JK, Gebreyes WA, Hassen JY, Ibrahim AM, Manary MJ, Rajashekara G, Roba KT, Usmane IA, Havelaar AH, McKune SL. Women's empowerment and child nutrition in a context of shifting livelihoods in Eastern Oromia, Ethiopia. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1048532. [PMID: 37457972 PMCID: PMC10338874 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1048532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Agriculture, and particularly livestock and animal source foods, has been closely linked to improvements in human nutrition. Production, income, and women's empowerment improve household food security and child nutritional outcomes in interacting ways. Khat production in Eastern Ethiopia is changing the economic and livelihood landscape for communities that have traditionally relied upon small-scale mixed agriculture and livestock production. How this shifting livelihood landscape and the empowerment of women in these communities are affecting nutritional outcomes has not been investigated. Using cross-sectional data collected during formative research for the Campylobacter Genomics and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (CAGED) project, we developed models to examine the roles of livelihood activities, including livestock production, staple crop production, and khat production, and women's empowerment in child nutrition outcomes. Survey participants were randomly selected mothers of children aged 10-15 months from Haramaya district, Eastern Hararghe, Oromia, Ethiopia. Nested logistic regression models were performed for each nutrition outcome: children's animal source food consumption, children's dietary diversity, and child stunting, wasting, and underweight. Explanatory variables included those for livelihood (tropical livestock unit, crop production, and khat production ladder) and women's empowerment (as indicated by domains of the Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index), and covariates including child sex, mother's age, mother's education, assets, income, and kebele. Results indicated that khat production and tropical livestock units were not significantly associated with any of the child nutrition outcomes. However, results did indicate that the odds of reporting child animal source food consumption in households where the mother was empowered in the leadership domain was 3.33 times that in households where the mother wasn't (p < 0.05). In addition, the odds of having a stunted child in households where the mother was empowered in the time domain was 2.68 times that in households where the mother wasn't (p < 0.05). The results from this study both support and complicate the existing literature on the associations between women's empowerment in agriculture and child nutrition outcomes, underscoring the important role that livelihood, contextual factors, and location may have on the complex relationship between empowerment domains and nutritional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karah Mechlowitz
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Nitya Singh
- Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Food Systems Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Xiaolong Li
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Dehao Chen
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Yang Yang
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Anna Rabil
- Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Adriana Joy Cheraso
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Ibsa Abdusemed Ahmed
- Department of Public Health and Health Policy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Jafer Kedir Amin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Wondwossen A. Gebreyes
- Global One Health Initiative, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jemal Y. Hassen
- School of Rural Development and Agricultural Innovation, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mark J. Manary
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Gireesh Rajashekara
- Center for Food Animal Health, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, United States
| | - Kedir Teji Roba
- Department of Public Health and Health Policy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Ibsa Aliyi Usmane
- School of Rural Development and Agricultural Innovation, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Arie H. Havelaar
- Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Food Systems Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sarah L. McKune
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for African Studies, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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Shaikhain G, Gaballah M, Alhazmi A, Khardali I, Hakami A, Oraiby M, Alharbi S, Tobaigi M, Ghalibi M, Fageeh M, Albeishy M, Attafi I. Fatalities Involving Khat in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, 2018 to 2021. Toxics 2023; 11:506. [PMID: 37368606 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11060506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Interpreting fatalities involving khat is challenging due to a lack of data on cathinone and cathine reference concentrations in postmortem tissues. This study investigated the autopsy findings and toxicological results of fatalities involving khat in Saudi Arabia's Jazan region from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2021. All confirmed cathine and cathinone results in postmortem blood, urine, brain, liver, kidney, and stomach samples were recorded and analyzed. Autopsy findings and the manner and cause of death of the deceased were assessed. Saudi Arabia's Forensic Medicine Center investigated 651 fatality cases over four years. Thirty postmortem samples were positive for khat's active constituents, cathinone and cathine. The percentage of fatalities involving khat was 3% in 2018 and 2019 and increased from 4% in 2020 to 9% in 2021, when compared with all fatal cases. They were all males ranging in age from 23 to 45. Firearm injuries (10 cases), hanging (7 cases), road traffic accident (2 cases), head injury (2 cases), stab wounds (2 cases), poisoning (2 cases), unknown (2 cases), ischemic heart disease (1 case), brain tumor (1 case), and choking (1 case) were responsible for the deaths. In total, 57% of the postmortem samples tested positive for khat only, while 43% tested positive for khat with other drugs. Amphetamine is the drug most frequently involved. The average cathinone and cathine concentrations were 85 and 486 ng/mL in the blood, 69 and 682 ng/mL in the brain, 64 and 635 ng/mL in the liver, and 43 and 758 ng/mL in the kidneys, respectively. The 10th-90th percentiles of blood concentrations of cathinone and cathine were 18-218 ng/mL and 222-843 ng/mL, respectively. These findings show that 90% of fatalities involving khat had cathinone concentrations greater than 18 ng/mL and cathine concentrations greater than 222 ng/mL. According to the cause of death, homicide was the most common fatality involving khat alone (77%). More research is required, especially toxicological and autopsy findings, to determine the involvement of khat in crimes and fatalities. This study may help forensic scientists and toxicologists investigate fatalities involving khat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghassan Shaikhain
- Forensic Toxicology Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Gaballah
- Forensic Medicine Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Alhazmi
- Forensic Medicine Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim Khardali
- Forensic Toxicology Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Hakami
- Forensic Medicine Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Magbool Oraiby
- Forensic Toxicology Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sultan Alharbi
- Forensic Toxicology Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Tobaigi
- Forensic Medicine Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Ghalibi
- Forensic Medicine Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohsen Fageeh
- Forensic Toxicology Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Albeishy
- Forensic Toxicology Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibraheem Attafi
- Forensic Toxicology Services, Forensic Medical Center, Ministry of Health, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
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Bete T, Lami M, Negash A, Eyeberu A, Birhanu A, Berhanu B, Abdeta T, Nigussie S, Dechasa DB, Gemechu K, Wedaje D, Alemu A, Kibret H, Bayu K, Meseret F, Abinew Y, Wondimneh F, Dirirsa G, Godana A, Husen J, Alemu A, Nigussie K, Heluf H, Bogale K, Dessie Y. Current alcohol, tobacco, and khat use and associated factors among adults living in Harari regional state, eastern Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:955371. [PMID: 36532190 PMCID: PMC9751331 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.955371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Psychoactive substance use becomes a major public health and socioeconomic problem worldwide. Despite its burden and consequences, there is no community-based study conducted on psychoactive substance use and associated factors in eastern Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude and determinants of current alcohol, tobacco, and khat among adults living in Harari regional state, eastern Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 955 adults living in Harari regional state. Participants were randomly recruited using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected by interviewer-administered structured and semi-structured questionnaires. Data were entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and exported to Stata version 14.0 for analysis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between the outcome and independent variables, and the statistical significance was declared at a p < 0.5. Results Of 955 eligible participants, 95.29% participated in the study. The overall prevalence of current alcohol use, tobacco use, and khat use in this study was 8.24, 14.5, and 63.30%, respectively. The availability of alcohol, being unemployed, and being a current khat user were significantly associated with current alcohol use. Being male, having a low level of education, having peer pressure, having a common mental disorder, being a current alcohol user, and being a khat user were identified as significant predictors for current tobacco use. The age between 31 and 40 years, being a Muslim religion follower, being a farmer, being a current tobacco user, and availability of khat were significantly associated with current khat use. Conclusion and recommendations The prevalence of psychoactive substance use in the study area was relatively high compared with that of previous studies. By considering these determinants, screening, early identification, and developing appropriate intervention strategies to prevent and tackle current alcohol, tobacco, and khat use in the community should be of great concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilahun Bete
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Magarsa Lami
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Abraham Negash
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Addis Eyeberu
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Abdi Birhanu
- College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Bekelu Berhanu
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tilahun Abdeta
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Shambel Nigussie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Deribe Bekele Dechasa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Kabtamu Gemechu
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Dawud Wedaje
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Ayichew Alemu
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Haregeweyn Kibret
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Kefelegn Bayu
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Fentahun Meseret
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yideg Abinew
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Fenta Wondimneh
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Gebisa Dirirsa
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Abduro Godana
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Jemal Husen
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Addisu Alemu
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Kabtamu Nigussie
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Helina Heluf
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Kasahun Bogale
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yadeta Dessie
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
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Githua KK, Maitho TE, Nguta JM, Okumu MO. Studies on the ethnopharmacology, antimicrobial activity, and toxicity of Catha edulis (Vahl.) Endl., in Sprague Dawley rats. F1000Res 2022; 11:286. [PMID: 37767078 PMCID: PMC10521044 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.109243.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Mbeere South community of Embu County consume leaves of Catha edulis for its stimulant and euphoretic actions. Other indigenous uses of the plant are undocumented. Information on the pharmacology and safety of this plant is also scanty. This study aimed to document the ethnopharmacology, antimicrobial properties, and toxicity of C. edulis leaves collected from the Mbeere South community in Kenya. Methods: Ethnopharmacological data was collected from 35 informants using semi-structured questionnaires. Leaf extracts of C. edulis were prepared using acetone, water, and methanol. The antimicrobial properties of these extracts were evaluated against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. The toxicity of the aqueous extract was determined using hematological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters in male and female Sprague Dawley rats at 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg doses over 28 days. p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: All informants were male, most were married, >50 years old, with >10 years of experience. The sources, local names, preparation, storage conditions, indications, frequency of use, dosage, and side effects of C. edulis were documented. All extracts were ineffective against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. They had limited efficacy against B. cereus and S. aureus. Significant differences were observed in the hematological and biochemical parameters of rats at the tested doses. Low, intermediate, and high doses of the aqueous extract of C. edulis produced local congestion of the cardiac and hepatic vessels. Localized interstitial connective tissue proliferation, multifocal kidney interstitial hemorrhage, and localized tubular epithelium necrosis were also observed in female rats. Conclusions: The ethnobotanical uses of C. edulis among the Mbeere South community were documented for the first time. Limited antimicrobial efficacy and toxicity at high doses limit the use of leaves of C. edulis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Kariuki Githua
- Health, County Government of Embu, Embu, Embu, +254, Kenya
- Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Nairobi, 254, Kenya
| | - Timothy Elias Maitho
- Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Nairobi, 254, Kenya
| | - Joseph Mwanzia Nguta
- Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Nairobi, 254, Kenya
| | - Mitchel Otieno Okumu
- Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Nairobi, 254, Kenya
- Pharmacy, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kisumu, Kisumu, +254, Kenya
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Manzar MD, Alghadir AH, Khan M, Salahuddin M, Hassen HY, Almansour AM, Nureye D, Tekalign E, Shah SA, Pandi-Perumal SR, Bahammam AS. Poor Sleep in Community-Dwelling Polysubstance Users: Association With Khat Dependence, Metacognition, and Socio-Demographic Factors. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:792460. [PMID: 35619616 PMCID: PMC9127297 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.792460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Poor sleep and cognitive deficits are often associated with increased drug use. However, no study has addressed the relationship between poor sleep, substance dependence, and metacognitive deficit in polysubstance users. Methods This was a cross-sectional study with a simple random sampling involving community-dwelling polysubstance users (n = 326, age = 18-43 years) in Mizan, Ethiopia. Participants completed a brief sleep questionnaire, severity of dependence on khat (SDS-Khat), a brief meta-cognition questionnaire, and a socio-demographic survey. Results Majority (56.4%) of the polysubstance users had sleep disturbance. Chronic health conditions [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31-4.85], chronic conditions in the family (AOR = 2.69, 95% CI 1.40-5.20), illiterate-primary level of educational status (AOR = 2.40, 95% CI 1.30-4.04), higher SDS-Khat score (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.13-1.72), and lower meta-cognition score (AOR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.84-0.97) predicted poor sleep in the polysubstance users. Moreover, low metacognition score and high SDS score also predicted additional sleep disturbances like chronic sleep insufficiency, lethargy and restlessness after nighttime sleep, socio-occupational dysfunctions, and daytime disturbances in polysubstance users. Conclusion Poor sleep, severe khat dependence, and metacognitive deficits are common in community polysubstance users. Moreover, poor sleep is associated with higher khat dependence, lower metacognitive ability, lower educational status, and the presence of chronic conditions in polysubstance users or their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Dilshad Manzar
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad H. Alghadir
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Masood Khan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Salahuddin
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University (Mizan), Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
- Pharmacology Division, Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, United States
| | - Hamid Yimam Hassen
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Ahmed M. Almansour
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dejen Nureye
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University (Mizan), Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Eyob Tekalign
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Showkat Ahmad Shah
- Department of Economics, College of Business and Economics, Mizan-Tepi University (Mizan), Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Seithikurippu R. Pandi-Perumal
- Somnogen Canada Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada
- Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Ahmed S. Bahammam
- The University Sleep Disorders Center, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- National Plan for Science and Technology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Al-Motarreb A, AL-Suwaidi J. Khat Chewing and Cardiovascular Disease. Heart Views 2022; 23:103-107. [PMID: 36213431 PMCID: PMC9542965 DOI: 10.4103/heartviews.heartviews_88_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Khat chewing is a deeply rooted habit in Yemen. It has social, economic, and medical problems. Chronic use of khat chewing increases the risk of many medical complications. Cathinone, the main khat leaf constituent, has an indirect sympathomimetic action. The effect of khat chewing and cathinone on the cardiovascular system have been identified, including increased risk of hypertension and acute cardiovascular events, as well as increased risk of cardiovascular complications among patients presenting with Acute Coronary Syndrome who are khat chewers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Al-Motarreb
- Cardiac Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sanaa University, Sana'a, Yemen,Address for correspondence: Prof. Ahmed Al-Motarreb, Professor of Cardiology, Cardiac Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sana’a University, Sana’a Yemen. E-mail:
| | - Jassim AL-Suwaidi
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Heart Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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11
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Roble AK, Osman MO, Lathwal OP, Aden AA. Prevalence of Cigarette Smoking and Associated Factors Among Adolescents in Eastern Ethiopia, 2020. Subst Abuse Rehabil 2021; 12:73-80. [PMID: 34675751 PMCID: PMC8520971 DOI: 10.2147/sar.s331349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cigarette smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable morbidity and mortality globally, and it is accountable for many causes of premature deaths. Despite the negative consequences of cigarette smoking, studies to identify factors associated with cigarette smoking are scanty and little is known about this practice in the Somali region so far, so this study aimed to assess the prevalence of cigarette smoking and associated factors among adolescents in the Gode, eastern Ethiopia 2020. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 341 adolescents in the Godey administration of the Somali Region, Eastern Ethiopia from July to August 2020. A systematic sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer administered questionnaire. The collected data were entered with Epi-Data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 22 software for statistical analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to identify the true effect of predictor variables on the outcome variable after controlling for possible confounders. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05. Results Over all, the prevalence of current cigarette smoking among adolescents was found to be 21.1% (95% CI: (16.7−25.5). Having smoker parents [AOR = 2.57, 95% CI: (1.32–5.02)], whose friends smoke cigarette [AOR = 4.78, 95% CI: (2.12–10.76)], and currently chewing khat [AOR = 6.01, 95% CI: (2.96–12.23)] were significantly associated predictors of current cigarette smoking in the final model of multivariable analysis. Conclusion The prevalence of cigarette smoking was relatively high in this study area. This study reported having smokers’ parents, having smokers’ friends and chewing khat were found to be independent predictors for cigarette smoking. Therefore, effective smoking prevention and intervention programs are required in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdurahman Kedir Roble
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Science, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
| | - Mohamed Omar Osman
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
| | - Om Parkash Lathwal
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
| | - Abdirashid Abdi Aden
- Primary Health Care and Health Extension Program Directorate Office, Somali Regional Health Bureau, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
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12
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Roba HS, Gebremichael B, Adem HA, Beyene AS. Current Substances Use Among Students in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 20-Years Evidence. Subst Abuse 2021; 15:11782218211050352. [PMID: 34671181 PMCID: PMC8521424 DOI: 10.1177/11782218211050352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: The use of psychoactive substances is one of the main public health issues worldwide. However, there is a lack of evidence on the magnitude of current substance use among students in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to provide comprehensive views of the current prevalence of substance use among students in Ethiopia. Methods: We searched PubMed/Medline, Health InterNetwork Access to Research Initiative (HINARI), Google Scholar, and gray literature sources between 2000 and 2019. The prevalence of current substances with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated using the random-effects model. The results were presented using forest plots, and Cochrane Q-test and I2 were used to measure the extents of between-study variations. Results: A total of 1543 study articles were identified from electronic databases, and 32 cross-sectional studies were included in the meta-analysis. The prevalence of current use of at least 1 substance was 37.63% (95% CI: 33.66, 41.69), alcohol 27.61% (95% CI: 22.10, 33.48), khat 17.20% (95% CI: 14.03, 20.62), and smoking 9.74% (95% CI: 7.17, 12.64). The prevalence of any substance use in high school students versus university/college students was 41.55% (95% CI: 38.83, 44.29) versus 36.24% (95% CI: 32.37, 40.20), alcohol 24.21% (95% CI: 14.05, 36.11) versus 25.27% (95% CI: 19.76, 31.20), khat 13.82% (95% CI: 8.61, 20.02) versus 17.30% (95% CI:13.75, 21.16), and cigarette 8.30% (95% CI: 1.89, 18.60) versus 9.80% (95% CI: 7.32, 12.58). Meta-regression analysis revealed publication year, sample size, female proportion, and age were not significantly associated with the current use of substances. Conclusion: Overall, the current substance use of any substance, alcohol, chewing khat, and smoking cigarettes was relatively high. A significant proportion of high school students were already using substances at an early age. Policymakers should formulate and implement regulations to control the pervasive use of substances by young people around educational institutions at all levels. Protocol Registration: The protocol has been registered on 19 August 2019 on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with ID: CDR42019130560.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirbo Shore Roba
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Berhe Gebremichael
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Hassen Abdi Adem
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Addisu Shunu Beyene
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.,Research Centre for Generational Health and Ageing, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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13
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Hassen MT, Soboka M, Widmann M, Keller L, Zeller AC, Büchele N, Barnewitz E, Yitayih Y, Schiller S, Senger J, Adorjan K, Odenwald M. Khat Use Patterns, Associated Features, and Psychological Problems in a Khat-Treatment-Seeking Student Sample of Jimma University, Southwestern Ethiopia. Front Public Health 2021; 9:645980. [PMID: 34490174 PMCID: PMC8416611 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.645980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Khat (Catha edulis) is a traditionally used substance in African and Arab countries that contains the amphetamine-like alkaloid cathinone. Khat use among Ethiopian students is a growing concern. This study aims to describe khat use, psychological problems, and motivation to change and to determine associated factors of khat use among students from Jimma University seeking psychological assistance. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, a sample of 717 students from Jimma University, southwestern Ethiopia, who seek assistance to reduce khat use were recruited. The study used Amharic and Afaan Oromoo language versions of common psychological instruments and employed them as part of a comprehensive tablet computer-delivered self-report assessment battery, comprising the SRQ-20, the PCL-5, the LEC-5, the AUDIT, and the SOCRATES-khat. In addition, socio-demographic, economic variables, and functioning problems due to severe mental disorders were assessed. The analysis relied on the data of the 575 included participants and used clinical cut-off values to describe this treatment-seeking sample and hierarchical regression models to determine variables associated with khat use. Results: The sample showed high khat use in the past month (M = 31.55 bundles, SD = 28.53, on M = 15.11 days, SD = 8.54); 17.0% showed highly problematic use. The sample was extremely burdened with comorbid psychiatric problems: 21.6% reported functioning problems due to past mental disorders, 60.2% scored above the cut-off for current common mental disorders, 37.9% screened positive for PTSD, and 47.1% reported hazardous alcohol use. Small to medium intercorrelations between variables were detected, and in hierarchical regression models, higher motivation to change khat use was associated with higher use of the substance. Conclusions: This study clearly shows the need to develop research instruments, screening methods, and assistance services for khat-using students at Jimma University. Study participants' high mental health burden shows the need for targeted intervention programs that go beyond brief interventions for khat use. Furthermore, the study highlights challenges for implementing such services: the barriers to utilization for females and khat users without comorbid mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matiwos Soboka
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Marina Widmann
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Lucas Keller
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anja C Zeller
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Natascha Büchele
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Eva Barnewitz
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Yimenu Yitayih
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Sabine Schiller
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Jael Senger
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Kristina Adorjan
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Psychiatric Phenomics and Genomics, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany.,Center for International Health (CIHLMU), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Odenwald
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
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Rather RA, Berhanu S, Abaynah L, Sultan M. Prevalence of Khat ( Catha edulis) Chewing and Its Determinants: A Respondent-Driven Survey from Hossana, Ethiopia. Subst Abuse Rehabil 2021; 12:41-48. [PMID: 34429682 PMCID: PMC8375584 DOI: 10.2147/sar.s324711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ethiopia is a leading khat producer in East Africa, and almost all regions are involved in khat production. Hossana, a small town in Southern Ethiopia, is also actively involved in khat production and its use. However, very few studies have been conducted to investigate the habit of khat chewing in this area. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence and predictors of khat chewing among Hossana residents. Methods The study was conducted on 1700 individuals in Hossana town from March 2018 to June 2019. A structured pre-tested self-administered questionnaire was designed and used for data collection. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were carried out to study the prevalence and predictors of khat chewing in the study area. Results The overall prevalence of khat chewing among the respondents was 58.0% (95% CI 53.4-63.3) of which 68.4% were daily khat users and 31.5% used it occasionally. About 24.7% of females and 75.2% of males had chewed khat. Muslim religion (AOR 2.37; 95% CI 1.58-4.32), male gender (AOR 3.48; 95% CI 2.16-5.61), Older age (AOR 1.36; 95% CI 0.84-2.21), participants having habitual khat chewing friends or a khat chewer family associate (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.17-2.20) were found to be independent predictors of chewing. Conclusion Significant portion of the population in the study area chew khat. Khat use is significantly associated with the Muslim religion, gender, age, and habit of family and friends. Further studies with larger demographic area are warranted from the study area to reproduce these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riyaz Ahmad Rather
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Natural and Computational Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Berhanu
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Natural and Computational Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
| | - Lemma Abaynah
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Natural and Computational Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Sultan
- Department of Statistics, College of Natural and Computational Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
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Lim SYM, Alshagga MA, Alshawsh MA, Ong CE, Pan Y. In vitro effects of 95% khat ethanol extract (KEE) on human recombinant cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C19, CYP2E1, CYP2J2 and CYP3A5. Drug Metab Pers Ther 2021; 37:55-67. [PMID: 35146975 DOI: 10.1515/dmpt-2021-1000196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Khat, a natural amphetamine-like psychostimulant plant, are widely consumed globally. Concurrent intake of khat and xenobiotics may lead to herb-drug interactions and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). This study is a continuation of our previous study, targeted to evaluate the in vitro inhibitory effects of khat ethanol extract (KEE) on human cytochrome (CYP) 1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C19, CYP2E1, CYP2J2, and CYP3A5, major human drug metabolizing enzymes. METHODS In vitro fluorescence enzyme assays were employed to assess CYPs inhibition with the presence and absence of various KEE concentrations. RESULTS KEE reversibly inhibited CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C19, CYP2E1, CYP2J2 and CYP3A5 but not CYP1A2 with IC50 values of 25.5, 99, 4.5, 21, 27, 17, and 10 μg/mL respectively. No irreversible inhibition of KEE on all the eight CYPs were identified. The Ki values of CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C19, CYP2E1, CYP2J2 and CYP3A5 were 20.9, 85, 4.8, 18.3, 59.3, 3, and 21.7 μg/mL, respectively. KEE inhibited CYP2B6 via competitive or mixed inhibition; CYP2E1 via un-competitive or mixed inhibition; while CYP2A6, CYP2C8, CYP2C19, CYP2J2 and CYP3A5 via non-competitive or mixed inhibition. CONCLUSIONS Caution should be taken by khat users who are on medications metabolized by CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C19, CYP2E1, CYP2J2, and CYP3A5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharoen Yu Ming Lim
- Division of Biomedical Science, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Alshagga
- Division of Biomedical Science, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | | | - Chin Eng Ong
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Wilayah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yan Pan
- Division of Biomedical Science, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
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16
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Gameraddin M, Abdalmalik BA, Ibrahim M. The Impact of Khat ( Catha edulis) on Hemodynamics of the Common Carotid Arteries in Regular Khat Chewers: A Case-control Study Using Doppler Ultrasound. J Med Ultrasound 2021; 29:46-49. [PMID: 34084716 PMCID: PMC8081101 DOI: 10.4103/jmu.jmu_22_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: To evaluate the effect of chewing khat on the hemodynamics of the common carotid arteries (CCAs) using Doppler ultrasound imaging. Methods: This is a cross-sectional case–control study. Fifty volunteers who were chronic regular khat chewers were selected and compared with healthy nonkhat chewers. They were examined using Doppler imaging with a 7–10 MHz linear transducer. The resistivity index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), peak systolic velocity (PSV), and end-diastolic velocity of the CCAs were determined according to the standard protocol of carotid Doppler ultrasound. Results: The RI and PI of the right and left CCAs were significantly higher in khat chewers compared to controls (P < 0.001). The PSV of the right and left CCAs was considerably higher in khat chewers compared to controls (P < 0.001 and 0.04, respectively). Conclusion: The Doppler values of blood flow velocity, resistivity, and pulsatility were significantly higher in chronic regular khat chewers compared to nonkhat chewers. Khat is a significant contributory factor for increasing the hemodynamics of the CCAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moawia Gameraddin
- Department of Diagnostic Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bushra A Abdalmalik
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Hail University, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Ibrahim
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Hargeisa, Hargeisa, Somaliland
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17
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Abou-Elhamd AS, Kalamegam G, Ahmed F, Assidi M, Alrefaei AF, Pushparaj PN, Abu-Elmagd M. Unraveling the Catha edulis Extract Effects on the Cellular and Molecular Signaling in SKOV3 Cells. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:666885. [PMID: 34040530 PMCID: PMC8141790 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.666885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Khat (Catha edulis (Vahl) Endl.) is an evergreen flowering shrub used as a stimulant in many regions worldwide including East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, Europe, and the United States. Chewing leaves of khat induces excitement and euphoria, which are primarily attributed to two major constituents, cathinone and cathine. Khat also contains other important constituents such as cathedulins. A considerable number of studies reported side effects induced by the khat extracts to both embryos and adults. These include teratogenicity and developmental retardation, oral cancer and ulcers, high blood pressure, and myocardial infarction. So far, little attention has been paid to the effects of khat extracts on the molecular signaling interactions. We aimed in this study to investigate this through evaluating the effects of khat extracts on SKOV3, a human ovarian adenocarcinoma cell line. We show, by in vitro assays, that khat induces several cellular defects including reduced cell size, cell membrane damage, and apoptosis. At high khat extract concentrations, the cell metabolic activity, cell cycle, and cellular proliferation were affected. RT-qPCR analysis showed an increase in the gene expression of the apoptotic marker BAX, the tumor suppressor p53, and the inflammatory cytokine IL-6. Protein expression analysis by immunostaining showed downregulation of β-catenin, E-cadherin, and Ki-67 and upregulation of FZD8 and SPRY2, suggesting that Wnt and FGF signaling were implicated. SwissTargetPrediction in silico analysis showed that khat constituents cathine, cathinone, catheduline K2, and catheduline E5 bind to family A G-protein-coupled receptor, cause many neurological diseases and disorders such as Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety, and induce many ovarian cancer-related diseases. The analysis also showed that important signaling pathways such as CREB, Wnt, FGF, IL-6, and ERK/MAPK, and that of the endometrial cancer, and cell cycle were implicated. Upstream regulators of cathine and cathinone were found to potentially target several molecules including interleukin-8, MMP2, PLAU, and micro-RNAs. In conclusion, khat induces significant cellular and molecular changes that could potentially cause a wide range of serious diseases and syndromes. Such an impact could have a heavy burden on the health care system in the countries where khat is consumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Sayed Abou-Elhamd
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.,Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gauthaman Kalamegam
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farid Ahmed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mourad Assidi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Peter Natesan Pushparaj
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Abu-Elmagd
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Hakami T, Mahmoud M, Mohammed B, El-Setouhy M. Effects of khat use on response to antipsychotic medications in patients with newly diagnosed schizophrenia: a retrospective study. East Mediterr Health J 2021; 27:353-360. [PMID: 33955531 DOI: 10.26719/emhj.21.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Background Khat contains the amphetamine-like cathinone, and can trigger onset of schizophrenia and exacerbate pre-existing psychosis. However, it remains unknown whether the use of khat complicates the outcome of schizophrenia treatment. Aims We tested the hypothesis that patients with schizophrenia who are using khat will fail to respond to standard antipsychotic treatment. Methods We retrospectively studied a consecutive series of patients who presented to an adult psychiatric clinic in Al-Amal Psychiatric Hospital in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2016. Patients with newly diagnosed schizophrenia on antipsychotic monotherapy (n = 1007, 817 men) were included and categorized into khat and non-khat users. A khat chewing index was developed to further categorize low, mild, moderate and heavy khat users. Antipsychotic medications were reviewed to determine their potential and the cause of substitution in association with khat use. Results There were 483 (48%) khat users. Olanzapine, haloperidol and aripiprazole were the most frequently used drugs (46.3%, 15.6% and 10%, respectively). The retention rate of the initial drug differed between the khat users and nonusers (53.8% and 78.4%, respectively). The proportion of moderate and heavy users (55% and 49%, respectively) who changed their initial drug was greater than that of low and mild users (35.6% and 44.7%, respectively). Lack of drug efficacy was the most appealing reason for switching the initial drug among moderate (51.7%) and heavy khat users (48.4%). Conclusions Khat use hinders an individual's response to initial antipsychotic drug treatment for schizophrenia. Further studies are warranted to investigate the treatment decisions for this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Hakami
- The Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Mahmoud
- The Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Barakat Mohammed
- Al-Amal Psychiatric Hospital, Ministry of Health, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maged El-Setouhy
- The Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.,The Substance Abuse Research Center (SARC), Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
Khat or qat (Catha edulis) is a flowering plant with an Arabic name قات, regularly named as qāt, also is known by various descriptive names, such as Abyssinian tea, Somali tea, Arabian tea, Miraa, Jima, and Kafta in its endemic regions of the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Fresh leaves and tops of khat are chewed or dried and consumed as a tea to attain a state of euphoria and excitement; it also has appetite-reducing effects. Traditionally, khat is used as a socializing habit in Yemen and is also widely cultivated because of its high income. However, in recent years the plant has been reported in England, Wales, Rome, Amsterdam, Canada, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Although it is believed that khat is a relatively low-risk drug, it's associated with an increased risk for various medical complications, including dental and oropharyngeal disease, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuropsychiatric, obstetric, and even can be the cause of cancer. Our goal in this review article is to revise and determine the relationship between chewing khat and its health issues. Additionally, we tried to determine the mechanism involved in health hazards due to consuming the khat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iana Malasevskaia
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics/Gynecology Private Clinic, Sana'a, YEM.,Obstetrics and Gynecology, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | | | - Lubna Mohammed
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Onyango TB, Hjelle SM, Haaland I, Vintermyr OK, Johannessen AC, Gjertsen BT. A Comparison of p53 Isoform Profiles and Apoptosis Induced by Camptothecin or a Herbal Khat Extract (Catha Edulis (Vahl) Forssk. ex Endl.) in Leukemic Cell Lines: Exploring Cellular Responses in Therapy Development. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3596. [PMID: 33271840 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study aimed at exploring the modulations of p53 in cell toxicity induced by an extract of the herb khat, a natural stimulant used by millions of people. We previously reported that khat-extract induced cell death by affecting mitochondrial function and the receptor- and mitochondria-mediated cell death pathways, in leukemic cell lines and cells of the oral cavity, in vitro. We included the cancer therapeutic camptothecin, which induces apoptosis in various cancer cell lines. By studying modulations of p53 full-length protein and p53 β/γ isoforms following exposure to khat-extract and camptothecin, we wished to elucidate differences and similarities resulting from the treatments using MOLM-13 and MV-4-11 leukemic cell lines. Our results demonstrate that molecular effects of the cytotoxic treatments resulted in different p53 isoforms patterns and post-translational modifications. We suggest that analysis of p53 modulations could be useful in the search for new chemical probes and experimental cancer therapeutics. Abstract Khat (Catha edulis (Vahl) Forssk. ex Endl.) is habitually used as a natural stimulant by millions of people, but is associated with adverse effects on gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and central neural systems. At the cellular level khat toxicity involves p53 induction and cell cycle arrest, decreased mitochondrial function and activation of receptor- and mitochondria-mediated cell death pathways. In this study we have examined an extract of khat for induction of p53 post-translational modifications (PTMs) and the functional role of p53 in khat-mediated cell death. Khat was shown to induce phosphorylation and acetylation of p53 in both the khat-sensitive MOLM-13 and the khat-resistant MV-4-11 cell line, but accumulation of the full-length p53 isoform was only observed in the khat sensitive cell line. Small molecule inhibitors of p38 MAP kinase sensitized MV-4-11 cells for khat-treatment without concomitant stabilization of p53. Experiments using a p53 knock-down cell line and murine p53 knock-out bone marrow cells indicated that p53 was redundant in khat-mediated cell death in vitro. We suggest that analysis of isoform patterns and p53 PTMs are useful for elucidation of biological effects of complex plant extracts, and that p53 protein analysis is particularly useful in the search for new chemical probes and experimental cancer therapeutics.
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Al Moaleem MM, AlSanosy R, Al Ahmari NM, Shariff M, Alshadidi AA, Alhazmi HA, Khalid A. Effects of Khat on Surface Roughness and Color of Feldspathic and Zirconia Porcelain Materials under Simulated Oral Cavity Conditions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56050234. [PMID: 32414190 PMCID: PMC7279326 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56050234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Khat chewing is considered as a daily habit that is practiced by more than five million people globally. The effect of khat chewing on the surface roughness and the color stability of natural teeth and the material used in the fabrication of dental prosthesis remains unknown. This study was conducted to explore and compare the effect of khat homogenate (KH) on the surface roughness (Ra) and the average color changes (ΔE*) amongst natural teeth and selected shades from different porcelain types, namely, feldspathic metal ceramic (MC) VM13, computer-aided design/computer assisted manufacture (CAD/CAM) feldspathic (Vitablocs Mark II), and multilayer zirconia (Ceramill Zolid PS) porcelains. Materials and Methods: Seventy samples were prepared from natural teeth, feldspathic MC, CAD/CAM Vitablocs Mark II, and zirconia porcelain. The Ra values were measured using a profilometer and expressed in micrometers, whereas the ΔE* values were measured using VITA Easyshade® V spectrophotometer for all samples before and after frequent immersion and thermocycling in KH for 30 days. The surface topography was used to assess the materials surfaces (glazed or polished) after KH immersion by using a white light interferometry machine. Results: Results revealed that the Ra and the ΔE* values of the different types of tested porcelain were influenced by KH. The order of surface roughness values was glazed or polished MC > polished Zircon > polished Vitablocs Mark II > natural teeth. The lowest ΔE* values were recorded for glazed Vitablocs Mark II and MC, and the values could be arranged as polished zircon > natural teeth > glazed zircon > polished MC > polished Vitablocs Mark II. P values were significantly varied (<0.001) among all the tested groups, except the zircon group (>0.05) for both Ra and ΔE*. Conclusions: KH significantly affected both surface parameter and color of glazed or polished porcelain materials and natural teeth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed M. Al Moaleem
- Department of Prosthetic Dental Science, College of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | - Rashad AlSanosy
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Center, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (H.A.A.); (A.K.)
| | - Nasser M. Al Ahmari
- Prosthetic Department, College of Dentistry, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; (N.M.A.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Mansoor Shariff
- Prosthetic Department, College of Dentistry, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; (N.M.A.A.); (M.S.)
| | | | - Hassan A. Alhazmi
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Center, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (H.A.A.); (A.K.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asaad Khalid
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Center, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (H.A.A.); (A.K.)
- Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Institute, National Center for Research, Khartoum 11123, Sudan
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Limenie AA, Tolessa T, Makonnen E, Seifu D. Rewarding Effect of Catha edulis ( Khat) and the Sex Differences to the Responses in Swiss Albino Mice. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2020; 13:279-289. [PMID: 32273781 PMCID: PMC7106998 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s242036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Burden of substance abuse is becoming a worldwide problem. One of the psychostimulant plants widely consumed in Ethiopia and other East African countries is Catha edulis Forsk (khat). Most of the users claim that its stimulatory effect is the determinant factor that makes them use. However, its rewarding and reinforcing potential and variation between sexes have not been investigated. This study was, therefore, designed to measure the rewarding effect of khat extract (ke) in the addiction mice model of both sexes. Materials and Methods Forty-eight Swiss albino mice of both sexes (age 6–7 weeks) weighing 21–33 gm were used. The mice were conditioned to ke (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg b.w). The control group was conditioned to tween 80 (2%, v/v) in distilled water. The reinforcing effect of khat was evaluated using the conditioned place preference paradigm. The classical pairing to the extract was made using the place conditioning box. Post-conditioning tests have been conducted four times and the average values were taken for analysis using SPSS version 21.0. Results Time spent in the khat-paired compartment was significantly higher for mice conditioned to ke 200 mg/kg (p<0.05) and ke 300 mg/kg (p<0.001). The rewarding effect of khat was strong in females at a higher dose when compared to the same sex of mice conditioned to the vehicle (p<0.001) or male mice conditioned to the same dose of khat extract (p<0.05). Repeated administration increased khat rewarding sensitization at all doses. Though the crude khat extract did not affect the food consumption and total body weight, water consumption was significantly less in mice received ke 100 mg/kg (p<0.01), where it was significantly higher in mice received ke 300 mg/kg (p<0.01). Sniffing (p<0.05) and climbing (p<0.05) psychomotor activities of mice were also affected by the crude khat extract. Conclusion Mice showed place conditioning to khat extract, and the response was significantly higher in female mice. The crude khat extract did not affect food consumption and total body weight. The mechanisms behind the rewarding response of khat extract and sexual differences should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abebaye Aragaw Limenie
- Department of Physiology, Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Tolessa
- Department of Physiology, Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Eyasu Makonnen
- Department of Pharmacology, Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Seifu
- Department of Biochemistry, Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Gebresilassie Tesema A, Hadush Kahsay Z, Gidey Lemma G, Hagos Gebretsadik W, Mussie Weldemaryam M, Gebregiorgis Alemayohu G, L Hackett M. Prevalence of, Factors Associated with and Level of Dependence of Psychoactive Substance Use among Mekelle University Students, Ethiopia. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17030847. [PMID: 32013178 PMCID: PMC7038208 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17030847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: Psychoactive substance use is a major public health concern globally. Though youth attending higher education institutions are considered particularly vulnerable to psychoactive substances, there is a paucity of evidence in Ethiopia. We aimed to determine the prevalence of psychoactive substance use, factors associated with psychoactive substance use and level of dependence among Mekelle University undergraduate students in Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based quantitative cross-sectional survey was used to randomly (using multistage sampling) invite 1220 undergraduate students in April and May 2017 to participate. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with psychoactive substance use. Level of dependence was determined using the WHO’s Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test classification. Results: Among the eligible students approached, 1214 participants completed the survey, which yields a 99.5% response rate. The lifetime prevalence of psychoactive substance use was 66.5% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 64% to 69%) while the current prevalence was 49% (95% CI = 46% to 52%). A history of, but not current, psychoactive substance use was reported by 18%, while 33.5% reported never having used psychoactive substances. The current prevalence of alcohol use was 35.5%, tobacco 7.8% and khat 5.7%. Of the current users, 17% (95% CI = 14% to 20%) were at a moderate to high risk of dependency. Being over 21 years of age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.37 to 2.25), male (AOR = 3.13; 95% CI = 2.26 to 4.34), living in urban areas (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI = 1.77 to 3.23), an Orthodox Christian (AOR = 7.55, 95% CI = 4.56 to 12.48), and being in their 3rd year (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.49 to 3.55), 4th year (AOR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.2 to 3.51) and 5th year (AOR = 4.0, 95% CI = 2.81 to 7.67) at university were associated with currently using psychoactive substances. Being male and Orthodox Christian was associated with being an ex-smoker. Conclusions: Approximately half of Mekelle University undergraduate students were using psychoactive substances with almost one in five at risk of dependency. The likelihood of use increased with seniority. Evidence-based strategies are needed to prevent school-aged children from using psychoactive substances and university students becoming dependent on substances. Interventions designed to stop current psychoactive substance use may also have promise for reducing dependency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azeb Gebresilassie Tesema
- Health Education and Behavioral Science Unit, School of Public Health, Mekelle University, Mekelle 1871, Ethiopia;
| | - Znabu Hadush Kahsay
- Health Education and Behavioral Science Unit, School of Public Health, Mekelle University, Mekelle 1871, Ethiopia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Gebrezgi Gidey Lemma
- Psychiatry Department, School of Medicine, Mekelle University, Mekelle 1871, Ethiopia; (G.G.L.); (W.H.G.); (M.M.W.)
| | - Welday Hagos Gebretsadik
- Psychiatry Department, School of Medicine, Mekelle University, Mekelle 1871, Ethiopia; (G.G.L.); (W.H.G.); (M.M.W.)
| | - Mamuye Mussie Weldemaryam
- Psychiatry Department, School of Medicine, Mekelle University, Mekelle 1871, Ethiopia; (G.G.L.); (W.H.G.); (M.M.W.)
| | | | - Maree L Hackett
- The George Institute for Global Health. Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Camperdown, New South Wales, M201, Sydney city 2052, Australia;
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O'Neill-Dee C, Spiller HA, Casavant MJ, Kistamgari S, Chounthirath T, Smith GA. Natural psychoactive substance-related exposures reported to United States poison control centers, 2000-2017. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2019; 58:813-820. [PMID: 31766893 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2019.1688341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Context/Objective: To investigate the epidemiology of exposures to psychoactive substances of natural origin in the United States.Methods: Data from the National Poison Data System were retrospectively analyzed to investigate exposures to psychoactive substances of natural origin.Results: From January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2017, there were 67,369 calls to poison control centers in the United States regarding exposures to natural psychoactive substances, equaling an average of 3,743 exposures annually. Individuals >19 years of age (41.4%) and 13-19-year-olds (34.8%) accounted for most exposures with the highest annual rate reported among 13-19-year-olds at 79.4 per million population. The substances most commonly involved were marijuana (46.9%), anticholinergic plants (21.1%), and hallucinogenic mushrooms (15.6%). Kratom, khat, anticholinergic plants, and hallucinogenic mushrooms were the substances with the highest percentages of hospital admission and serious medical outcomes. The overall rate of exposure to natural psychoactive substances per million population increased significantly by 74.1% from 17.6 in 2000 to 30.7 in 2017 (p < 0.001). This increase was driven by a significant 150.0% increase in the rate of exposure to marijuana from 9.9 in 2000 to 24.7 in 2017 (p < 0.001). Despite this overall increase, most substances showed a significant decrease in exposure rate from 2000 to 2017, except for marijuana, nutmeg, and kratom. Kratom demonstrated a significant 4,948.9% increase from 2011 to 2017 and accounted for 8 of the 42 deaths identified in this study.Conclusions: While rates of exposure to most natural psychoactive substances decreased during the 18-year study period, rates for marijuana, nutmeg, and kratom increased significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor O'Neill-Dee
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Henry A Spiller
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.,Central Ohio Poison Center at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Marcel J Casavant
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.,Central Ohio Poison Center at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sandhya Kistamgari
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Thitphalak Chounthirath
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Gary A Smith
- Center for Injury Research and Policy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.,Child Injury Prevention Alliance, Columbus, OH, USA
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Berihu BA, Asfeha GG, Welderufael AL, Debeb YG, Zelelow YB, Beyene HA. Toxic effect of khat ( Catha edulis) on memory: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2019; 8:30-37. [PMID: 28149078 PMCID: PMC5225718 DOI: 10.4103/0976-3147.193524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People use khat (Catha edulis) for its pleasant stimulant effect of physical activity, consciousness, motor, and mental functions. Although there are reports assessing the effect of khat on memory, there was no study based on formal systematic review and meta-analysis. OBJECTIVE We have therefore conducted this meta-analysis to determine the level of evidence for the effect of khat (C. edulis Forsk) on memory discrepancy. METHODS MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Academic Search Complete, SPORTDiscus, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched to retrieve the papers for this review. Keywords utilized across database search were khat, cat, chat, long-term memory, short-term memory, memory deficit, randomized control trial, and cross-sectional survey. The search was limited to studies in humans and rodents; published in English language. RESULT Finding of various studies included in our meta-analysis showed that the effect of acute, and subchronic exposure to khat showed that short-term memory appears to be affected depending on the duration of exposure. However, does not have any effect on long-term memory. CONCLUSION Although a number of studies regarding the current topic are limited, the evidenced showed that khat (C. edulis) induced memory discrepancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birhane Alem Berihu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Institute of Bio-Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Gebrekidan Gebregzabher Asfeha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Bio-Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Abadi Leul Welderufael
- Department of Pediatrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Yared Godefa Debeb
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bio-Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Yibrah Berhe Zelelow
- Department of Pediatrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Hafte Assefa Beyene
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Institute of Bio-Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
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Geresu B, Canseco-Alba A, Sanabria B, Lin Z, Liu QR, Onaivi ES, Engidawork E. Involvement of CB2 Receptors in the Neurobehavioral Effects of Catha Edulis (Vahl) Endl. ( Khat) in Mice. Molecules 2019; 24:E3164. [PMID: 31480324 PMCID: PMC6749201 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24173164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is behavioral evidence for the interaction between crude khat extract and the endocannabinoid system, whereby the endocannabinoid system alters khat extract-mediated behavioral effects through modulation of the monoaminergic system. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of the endocannabinoid system on the neurobehavioral effect of khat extract in mice following concomitant administration of khat extract and the CB2R agonist, JWH133. Locomotor activity test, immunohistochemistry, and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction technique were utilized to assess locomotor activity, tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity, and expression of dopamine transporter mRNA gene. The results show sub-acute administration of khat extract alone increased locomotor activity in mice and co-administration of the CB2R agonist, JWH133, reduced khat extract induced hyperlocomotor activity. The data revealed that cell type specific deletion of CB2Rs on dopaminergic neurons increased the hyperlocomotor behavior of khat extract. Furthermore, the results revealed that khat extract attenuated MPTP induced motor deficits, which is enhanced by JWH133. Khat extract also increased expression of tyrosine hydroxylase positive cells and expression of dopamine transporter mRNA gene in wild type mice. Nevertheless, JWH133 did not alter the effect of khat extract on tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity and dopamine transporter mRNA expression when given together with khat extract. Taken together, the results suggest that the CB2Rs selectively interact with khat extract-mediated locomotor effects and could be utilized as therapeutic target in central nervous system movement disorders associated with dopamine dysregulation.
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MESH Headings
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Brain/drug effects
- Brain/physiology
- Cannabinoids/administration & dosage
- Cannabinoids/pharmacology
- Catha/chemistry
- Dopamine Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins/genetics
- Dopamine Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins/metabolism
- Dopaminergic Neurons/drug effects
- Dopaminergic Neurons/physiology
- Gene Deletion
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Motor Activity/drug effects
- Plant Extracts/pharmacology
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Berhanu Geresu
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa University, 1176 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ana Canseco-Alba
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Branden Sanabria
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Zhicheng Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Psychiatric Neurogenomics, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, and Mailman Neuroscience Research Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - Qing-Rong Liu
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Emmanuel S Onaivi
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA.
| | - Ephrem Engidawork
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa University, 1176 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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Abstract
The harmful effects of khat chewing on the oral mucosa membrane are still uncertain. Verruca vulgaris (common warts) is a benign lesion of skin and mucous membranes and can be caused by human papillomavirus. The lesions are typically self-limited but may vary in size and number. The occurrence on the floor of mouth is extremely rare. To the best of our knowledge, there are few number of oral lesions reported in connection with khat users. This case report shows that the chronic khat chewing has contributed to the development of verruca vulgaris warts that were confined to the chewing side of the mouth. A rare case of verruca vulgaris of the floor of mouth occurring in a 27-year-old Yamani male is presented with a discussion on etiopathogenesis and the treatment methods. Verruca vulgaris must be remembered in the differential diagnosis of the floor of mouth lesions, and surgical treatment may provide satisfactory outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gazal
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah, Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
Background Qat-induced intestinal obstruction is an acute manifestation of qat chewing which was not described previously in the literature. The aim of this case series is to describe the clinical presentation, the diagnostic and therapeutic measures, and the course of the disease. Methods This retrospective case series included all patients who presented with qat-induced intestinal obstruction between July 1, 2013, and December 31, 2015. Results The study included seven patients (five males and two females). The mean age was 41.4 years (22-60 years). All patients presented after 8-12 h of prolonged qat chewing with abdominal pain, severe abdominal distension, and inability to pass stool. Laboratory results were normal apart from slight leukocytosis (<15 × 109/L) in three patients. All patients showed air-fluid levels on the erect abdominal X-ray. The management included intravenous fluids and symptomatic therapy. The symptoms resolved in 1-2 days and the follow-up after 1 week showed no residual complaints. Conclusions Qat-induced intestinal obstruction is associated with the heavy and prolonged consumption of qat. The presentation mimics acute intestinal obstruction, but the course is benign. Spontaneous resolution with supportive inpatient treatment is the rule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhd Firas Safadi
- Department of Surgery, Yemeni-Egyptian Hospital, Sanaa, Yemen, Darmstadt, Germany.,Department of General, Visceral, and Thoracic Surgery, Klinikum Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
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Juju DB, Sekiyama M, Saito O. Food Security of Adolescents in Selected Khat- and Coffee-Growing Areas in the Sidama Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Nutrients 2018; 10:E980. [PMID: 30060510 PMCID: PMC6115914 DOI: 10.3390/nu10080980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Whilst pervasive food insecurity exists among adolescents in Ethiopia, the available information is scant and inconsistent. Therefore, the main objective of this cross-sectional study was to contribute to these gaps by assessing the food security of adolescents in the selected khat- and coffee-growing areas. We selected 234 (117 girls and 117 boys) adolescents aged 12⁻18 years via stratified random sampling. We measured the height and weight of the adolescents and asked about their food insecurity experiences. We assessed the prevalence of stunting and thinness using the WHO 2007 growth reference standards. Out of the total, 17 (7.3%) and 30 (12.8%) adolescents were stunted and thin, respectively. In addition, 89 (38.0%) adolescents reported food insecurity experiences and nine (3.8%) were overweight. A regression analyses showed that the stunting was associated with the age of the adolescents and maternal education. Thinness was associated with area, gender, and the number of meals. Food insecurity experiences were associated with health problems in the past 30 days. In general, adolescents from the khat-growing area have better food security than those from the coffee-growing area, and the same is true, gender-wise, for girls compared to boys. We recommend possible interventions primarily for adolescents in coffee-growing areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denabo Billo Juju
- United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability, Tokyo 150-8925, Japan.
| | - Makiko Sekiyama
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-0053, Japan.
| | - Osamu Saito
- United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability, Tokyo 150-8925, Japan.
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30
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Alsalahi A, Alshawsh MA, Chik Z, Mohamed Z. Effect of Catha edulis ( khat) on pancreatic functions in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Exp Anim 2018; 67:517-526. [PMID: 29973470 PMCID: PMC6219881 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.18-0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
People consume Catha edulis (khat) for its euphoric effect, and type 1
diabetics have claimed that khat could reduce elevated levels of blood sugar. However,
khat has been suggested to provoke diabetes mellitus through destruction of pancreatic
β-cells. This study investigated the effect of an ethanolic khat extract on pancreatic
functions in type 1 diabetes (T1DM)-induced male Sprague-Dawley rats and to assess its
in vitro cytotoxicity in rat pancreatic β-cells (RIN-14B). T1DM was
induced in a total of 20 rats with a single intraperitoneal injection of 75 mg/kg of
streptozotocin. The rats were distributed into four groups (n=5): the diabetic control, 8
IU insulin-treated, 200 mg/kg khat-treated, and 400 mg/kg khat-treated groups. Another 5
rats were included as a nondiabetic control. Body weight, fasting blood sugar, and caloric
intake were recorded weekly. Four weeks after treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and
blood was collected for insulin, lipid profile, total protein, amylase, and lipase
analysis, while pancreases were harvested for histopathology. In vitro,
khat exerted moderate cytotoxicity against RIN-14B cells after 24 and 48 h but
demonstrated greater inhibition against RIN-14B cells after 72 h. Neither 200 mg/kg nor
400 mg/kg of khat produced any significant reduction in blood sugar; however, 200 mg/kg
khat extract provoked more destruction of pancreatic β-cells as compared with the diabetic
control. Ultimately, neither 200 mg/kg nor 400 mg/kg of khat extract could produce a
hypoglycemic effect in T1DM-induced rats. However, 200 mg/kg of khat caused greater
destruction of pancreatic β-cells, implying that khat may cause a direct cytotoxic effect
on pancreatic β-cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulsamad Alsalahi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohammed A Alshawsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zamri Chik
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zahurin Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Al-Maweri SA, Al-Jamaei A, Saini R, Laronde DM, Sharhan A. White oral mucosal lesions among the Yemeni population and their relation to local oral habits. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 9:e12305. [PMID: 29178288 DOI: 10.1111/jicd.12305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of white oral mucosal lesions among Yemeni adults; in particular, those who chew khat and tobacco. METHODS The present cross-sectional study included 1052 dental patients aged 15 years and older. A detailed oral examination was performed by a single examiner in accordance with standard international criteria. RESULTS Overall, 25.2% of the study participants presented with one or more white lesions. The most prevalent lesions were khat-induced white lesion (8.8%), leukoedema (5.1%), and frictional keratosis (3.9%). Potentially malignant lesions, such as lichen planus, leukoplakia, and smokeless tobacco-induced lesions, were seen in 2.4%, 1.2%, and 1.7% of participants, respectively. Moreover, three cases of oral cancer were identified. The presence of white lesions was found to be significantly associated with advanced age (P = .004), male gender (P = .009), and khat/tobacco chewing habits (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrates a high prevalence of oral benign and potentially malignant white lesions. Further, it highlights the urgent need to develop and implement new government policies to regulate the sale of these products to reduce the prevalence of these lesions and the overall incidence of oral cancers in the Yemeni population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadeq A Al-Maweri
- Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Al-Farabi Colleges, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Oral Medicine, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Aisha Al-Jamaei
- Department of Oral Medicine, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Rajan Saini
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Denise M Laronde
- Department of Oral and Biological Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Amany Sharhan
- Department of Oral Medicine, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
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32
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Lifson AR, Workneh S, Shenie T, Ayana DA, Melaku Z, Bezabih L, Waktola HT, Dagne B, Hilk R, Winters KC, Slater L. Frequent Use of Khat, an Amphetamine-Like Substance, as a Risk Factor for Poor Adherence and Lost to Follow-Up Among Patients New to HIV Care in Ethiopia. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2017; 33:995-998. [PMID: 28462628 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2016.0274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Khat, a plant native to East Africa, has amphetamine-like psychoactive constituents, and is a potential risk factor for HIV infection. Chronic use can cause cognitive impairment and other mental disorders, raising concerns about effects on retention and adherence with HIV care. During 2013-2014, 322 Ethiopian patients newly enrolled at HIV clinics in Dire Dawa and Harar were surveyed about khat use and prospectively followed for 1 year; 9% died, 18% transferred care to other clinics, and 22% were lost to follow-up (LTFU) (no clinic visit for >3 months). Of 248 patients who received a 12-month follow-up survey, 37% used khat in the year after enrollment, with a median use of 60 h in a typical month. Those using khat ≥60 h/month (median among users) were more likely than others to be LTFU (31% vs. 16%, p = .014); those using khat ≥150 h/month (upper quartile) had 44% LTFU rates versus 16% for others (p = .002). Complete 3-day adherence (taking all doses) of antiretroviral therapy was reported by 77% of those using khat ≥60 h/month versus 95% of all others (p < .001), and 67% of those using khat ≥150 h/month versus 94% of others (p < .001). In two East African cities, where khat use is common, frequent use was a significant risk factor for higher 1-year LTFU and lower self-reported antiretroviral therapy adherence among people living with HIV entering HIV care. Where khat is widely utilized, interventions to promote either nonuse or reduced use are important as part of a comprehensive HIV care package and national HIV strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan R. Lifson
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Sale Workneh
- Ethiopian Office, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tibebe Shenie
- Ethiopian Office, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Zenebe Melaku
- International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Program, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lemlem Bezabih
- Ethiopian Office, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Hiwot Tekle Waktola
- Ethiopian Office, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Behailu Dagne
- Ethiopian Office, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Rose Hilk
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Lucy Slater
- Global Program, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors, Washington, District of Columbia
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Lu Y, Li Y, Xiang M, Zhou J, Chen J. Khat promotes human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell apoptosis via mitochondria and MAPK-associated pathways. Oncol Lett 2017; 14:3947-3952. [PMID: 28943902 PMCID: PMC5604101 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.6708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Khat (Catha edulis Forsk) is a flowering evergreen plant in Eastern Africa and Southwestern Arabia. Consumption of Khat has been associated with the development of oral cancer, but its mechanism of action on the molecular level remains unclear. The present study demonstrated the cytotoxic effect of khat extracts on the human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. Trypan blue exclusion assays, flow cytometry, fluorescent and electron microscopy, as well as western blotting were used to analyze the effects of Khat on the cell viability of breast cancer cells, expression of apoptotic-associated proteins and the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The results of the present study demonstrated that treatment with 400 µg/ml khat was able to induce cell death in breast cancers, with an increase in the protein expression of apoptosis regulator Bax and a decrease in the expression of B-cell lymphoma 2, along with a decrease in ROS levels in a time-dependent manner. Furthermore, the expression of activated c-Jun N-terminal and extracellular regulated protein kinases was increased in khat-treated cells compared with untreated cells. Mitochondria participated in cell apoptosis through the release of apoptogenic proteins to the cytosol and the generation of excess reactive oxygen species. The results of the present study suggest that khat induces MDA-MB-231 cell apoptosis via MAPK activation and mitochondrial-mediated death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, Taizhou People's Hospital, Nantong University, Taizhou, Jiangsu 225300, P.R. China
| | - Yanyan Li
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Min Xiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
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Nakajima M, Molla K, Belachew B, Mohammed A, Hassan A, Kroll J, al'Absi M. Khat Use is Associated with Tobacco, Alcohol, and Illicit Drug Use: A Cross-Sectional Examination in the United States. J Psychoactive Drugs 2017; 49:413-419. [PMID: 28699844 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2017.1342155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
No study has systematically examined khat (Catha edulis) use and its linkages with other substance use in the United States. This study provides novel findings related to the associations of khat with other substance use among immigrants in metropolitan areas of Minnesota where large East African communities reside. Using a convenience sampling, a total of 261 individuals completed a brief face-to-face interview during which demographic information and substance use were assessed. The proportion of lifetime and current use were 30% and 6.6% for khat, 35% and 18% for tobacco, 35% and 21% for alcohol, and 13% and 10% for other illicit drugs. Self-report history of khat use was associated with tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use. Tobacco use was related to alcohol and use of other drugs. The results suggest that a history of khat use is useful in identifying individuals who are vulnerable to substance-use-related problems. The findings indicate the need for more research on khat in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motohiro Nakajima
- a Assistant Professor, Department of Biobehavioral Health and Population Sciences , University of Minnesota Medical School , Duluth , MN , USA
| | - Kalkidan Molla
- b Research Assistant, Department of Biobehavioral Health and Population Sciences , University of Minnesota Medical School , Duluth , MN , USA
| | - Brook Belachew
- b Research Assistant, Department of Biobehavioral Health and Population Sciences , University of Minnesota Medical School , Duluth , MN , USA
| | - Abduselam Mohammed
- b Research Assistant, Department of Biobehavioral Health and Population Sciences , University of Minnesota Medical School , Duluth , MN , USA
| | - Abdikadir Hassan
- b Research Assistant, Department of Biobehavioral Health and Population Sciences , University of Minnesota Medical School , Duluth , MN , USA
| | - Jerome Kroll
- c Professor Emeritus, Department of Psychiatry , University of Minnesota Medical School , Duluth , MN , USA
| | - Mustafa al'Absi
- d Professor, Department of Biobehavioral Health and Population Sciences , University of Minnesota Medical School , Duluth , MN , USA
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Tembrock LR, Broeckling CD, Heuberger AL, Simmons MP, Stermitz FR, Uvarov JM. Employing Two-stage Derivatisation and GC-MS to Assay for Cathine and Related Stimulant Alkaloids across the Celastraceae. Phytochem Anal 2017; 28:257-266. [PMID: 28124803 DOI: 10.1002/pca.2671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/27/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Catha edulis (qat, khat, mirra) is a woody plant species that is grown and consumed in East Africa and Yemen for its stimulant alkaloids cathinone, cathine and norephedrine. Two Celastraceae species, in addition to qat, have been noted for their stimulant properties in ethnobotanical literature. Recent phylogenetic reconstructions place four genera in a clade sister to Catha edulis, and these genera are primary candidates to search for cathine and related alkaloids. OBJECTIVE Determine if cathine or related alkaloids are present in species of Celastraceae other than Catha edulis. METHODS Leaf samples from 43 Celastraceae species were extracted in water followed by basification of the aqueous extract and partitioning with methyl-t-butyl ether to provide an alkaloid-enriched fraction. The extract was derivatised in a two-stage process and analysed using GC-MS for the presence of cathine. Related alkaloids and other metabolites in this alkaloid-enriched fraction were tentatively identified. RESULTS Cathinone, cathine and norephedrine were not detected in any of the 43 Celastraceae species assayed other than Catha edulis. However, the phenylalanine- or tyrosine-derived alkaloid phenylethylamine was identified in five species. Nine species were found to be enriched for numerous sterol- and terpene-like compounds. CONCLUSION These results indicate that cathine is unique to Catha edulis, and not the compound responsible for the stimulant properties reported in related Celastraceae species. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke R Tembrock
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Corey D Broeckling
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Adam L Heuberger
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Mark P Simmons
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Frank R Stermitz
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Jessica M Uvarov
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
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36
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Manzar MD, Salahuddin M, Sony P, Maru TT, Pandi-Perumal SR, Moscovitch A, Bahammam AS. Sleep disturbances and memory impairment among pregnant women consuming khat: An under-recognized problem. Ann Thorac Med 2017; 12:247-251. [PMID: 29118856 PMCID: PMC5656942 DOI: 10.4103/atm.atm_24_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Khat (Catha edulis) is a evergreen flowering shrub that is cultivated at high altitudes, especially in East Africa and the southwest of the Arabian Peninsula. The plant contains alkaloids, of which cathinone and cathine have structural similarity and pharmacological action similar to amphetamines. The leaves are, therefore, consumed in some regions as a psychoactive stimulant due to cultural beliefs and misperceptions on the health benefits of khat consumption. This resulted in a growing prevalence of khat consumption among pregnant women. The myriad of physiological changes associated with pregnancy impairs sleep and memory. Moreover, khat has also been shown to have adverse effects on memory and sleep. Therefore, its use during pregnancy may further aggravate those impairments. The purpose of this mini-review is to summarize the changes in sleep and memory during pregnancy and the evidence supporting a relationship between khat consumption and neurocognitive deficits and sleep dysfunctions. The misperceptions of beneficial effects of khat, the high prevalence of consumption among pregnant women, and the possibility of under-reporting of khat abuse do necessitate the development of alternative methodologies to identify cases of unreported khat abuse in pregnant women. It is proposed that screening for sleep problems and memory deficits may help identify under-reported cases of khat abuse in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Dilshad Manzar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, (Mizan Campus), Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Salahuddin
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, (Mizan Campus), Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia
| | - Peter Sony
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, (Mizan Campus), Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia
| | - Tarekegn Tesfaye Maru
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, (Mizan Campus), Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia
| | - Seithikurippu R Pandi-Perumal
- University Sleep Disorders Center, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,National Plan for Science and Technology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adam Moscovitch
- Sleep and Fatigue Institute, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Ahmed S Bahammam
- University Sleep Disorders Center, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,National Plan for Science and Technology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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37
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Alele PE, Matovu D, Imanirampa L, Ajayi AM, Kasule GT. Projection neurons in the cortex and hippocampus: differential effects of chronic khat and ethanol exposure in adult male rats. J Exp Pharmacol 2016; 8:43-52. [PMID: 27785113 PMCID: PMC5067056 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s114272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent evidence suggests that many individuals who chew khat recreationally also drink ethanol to offset the stimulating effect of khat. The objective of this study was to describe the separate and interactive effects of chronic ethanol and khat exposure on key projection neurons in the cortex and hippocampus of young adult male rats. METHODS Young adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six treatment groups: 2 g/kg khat, 4 g/kg khat, 4 g/kg ethanol, combined khat and ethanol (4 g/kg each), a normal saline control, and an untreated group. Treatments were administered orally for 28 continuous days; brains were then harvested, sectioned, and routine hematoxylin-eosin staining was done. Following photomicrography, ImageJ® software captured data regarding neuron number and size. RESULTS No differences occurred in counts of both granular and pyramidal projection neurons in the motor cortex and all four subfields of the hippocampal formation. Khat dose-dependently increased pyramidal neuron size in the motor cortex and the CA3 region, but had different effects on granular neuron size in the dentate gyrus and the motor cortex. Mean pyramidal neuron size for the ethanol-only treatment was larger than that for the 2 g/kg khat group, and the saline control group, in CA3 and in the motor cortex. Concomitant khat and ethanol increased granular neuron size in the motor cortex, compared to the 2 g/kg khat group, the 4 g/kg khat group, and the 4 g/kg ethanol group. In the CA3 region, the 4 g/kg ethanol group showed a larger mean pyramidal neuron size than the combined khat and ethanol group. CONCLUSION These results suggest that concomitant khat and ethanol exposure changes granular and pyramidal projection neuron sizes differentially in the motor cortex and hippocampus, compared to the effects of chronic exposure to these two drugs separately.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lawrence Imanirampa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Abayomi M Ajayi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Gyaviira T Kasule
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
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Duresso SW, Matthews AJ, Ferguson SG, Bruno R. Is khat use disorder a valid diagnostic entity? Addiction 2016; 111:1666-76. [PMID: 27061394 DOI: 10.1111/add.13421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to validate the presence of a khat use disorder syndrome using DSM-5 criteria and to examine its relationship with increased experience of harms. DESIGN Cross-sectional, purposive sample of current khat-chewers, recruited from khat markets and cafes. SETTING Participants were recruited from the general community and from Adama Science and Technology University in Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS A total of 400 current khat consumers aged 16 and above were recruited between September 2014 and January 2015 MEASURES: Survey comprising current clinical symptoms (using a modified Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-IV), and validated measures of health, psychological distress, quality of life and academic functioning. FINDINGS A third [35.5% 95% confidence interval (CI) = 31.0-40.3] of respondents reported daily khat use and a quarter (25.4% 95% CI = 21.4-30.0) using three times or more per week. Using DSM-5 criteria, 10.5% (95% CI = 7.9-13.9) were categorized as experiencing mild, 8.8% (95% CI = 6.4-12.0) moderate and 54.5% (95% CI = 49.6-59.3) severe khat use disorder. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated a good fit of symptoms to a single underlying construct, consistent with other substance use disorders. Individuals categorized as experiencing khat use disorder demonstrated significantly greater frequency [odds ratio (OR) = 45.29; 95% CI = 10.97-19.01) and quantity of khat use (OR = 2.35; 95% CI = 1.29-4.29). They also demonstrated increased financial problems associated with use, greater problems with academic functioning and higher rates of self-reported mental health problems, higher psychological distress and poorer quality of life. Treatment access was poor, with only one-third (32.9%) of individuals with khat use disorder reporting life-time access, near-exclusively related to help-seeking from friends and relatives. CONCLUSION The construct of a substance use disorder syndrome for khat using DSM-5 criteria appears valid and performs in a manner consistent with other substances of dependence. Individuals with khat use disorder experience substantial problems in association with khat use. Despite this, there are low levels of help-seeking for these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Raimondo Bruno
- School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Pantano F, Tittarelli R, Mannocchi G, Zaami S, Ricci S, Giorgetti R, Terranova D, Busardò FP, Marinelli E. Hepatotoxicity Induced by "the 3Ks": Kava, Kratom and Khat. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:580. [PMID: 27092496 PMCID: PMC4849036 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17040580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The 3Ks (kava, kratom and khat) are herbals that can potentially induce liver injuries. On the one hand, growing controversial data have been reported about the hepatotoxicity of kratom, while, on the other hand, even though kava and khat hepatotoxicity has been investigated, the hepatotoxic effects are still not clear. Chronic recreational use of kratom has been associated with rare instances of acute liver injury. Several studies and case reports have suggested that khat is hepatotoxic, leading to deranged liver enzymes and also histopathological evidence of acute hepatocellular degeneration. Numerous reports of severe hepatotoxicity potentially induced by kava have also been highlighted, both in the USA and Europe. The aim of this review is to focus on the different patterns and the mechanisms of hepatotoxicity induced by “the 3Ks”, while trying to clarify the numerous aspects that still need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Pantano
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberta Tittarelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giulio Mannocchi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Serafino Ricci
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Raffaele Giorgetti
- Section of Legal Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Daniela Terranova
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesco P Busardò
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Enrico Marinelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Kassim S, Farsalinos KE. E-Cigarette as a Harm Reduction Approach among Tobacco Smoking Khat Chewers: A Promising Bullet of Multiple Gains. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2016; 13:240. [PMID: 26907315 PMCID: PMC4772260 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13020240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Khat chewing/use, a green leaf with amphetamine-like effects is socially integrated in the Middle East and Africa. Khat chewing is often associated with tobacco smoking and occurs in closed places, such as a family home setting where the smoke-free laws cannot be implemented. Tobacco cigarette smoking among khat chewers is a significant concern, but there is also second-hand exposure to smoke at home or in places where khat users gather. Evidence suggests that e-cigarettes represent a significantly less harmful form of nicotine intake. Evaluating the effects of e-cigarettes among khat chewers could be important in understanding the impact of e-cigarettes as a harm reduction approach, with the potential to reduce the health risk associated with smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Kassim
- College of Dentistry, Taibah University, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah 43353, Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Kassim
- College of Dentistry, Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, Taibah University, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, KSA and.
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Abstract
Background: Khat (Catha edulis) is a controversial plant having a euphoretic effect, at the same time part of culture in many countries such as Africa and Arabian Peninsula. The presence of amphetamine-like substance, cathinone and cathine make this plant banned in many countries. Many neurological and other system related studies have been carried out in this plant, but the lack of toxicity studies are there especially the mechanism. Objective: In this study, Madin-Darby Bovine Kidney cell line was used as an in vitro model to study the cell death mechanism. Crude extract of fresh Khat plant leaves were prepared and exposed to cells. Materials and Methods: Trypan blue assay, phase-contrast microscopy, fluorescent microscopy, clonogenic assay, annexin-V assay, and hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining were employed to check the objectives. Results: Reductions in cellular viability were observed at concentrations above 1.25 mg/ml while using Trypan blue assay. The results of the clonogenic assay had shown that the untreated control with the highest number of colonies (100% survival) and the 0.1562 concentration could not prevent the colony formation significantly. The high concentrations reduced the colony formation at concentration dependent manner 27.4% and 24.9%, for 0.625 mg/ml and 1.25 mg/ml concentrations, respectively. The acridine orange/ethidium bromide experiment had observed the cells were intact with round nucleus while the apoptosis features such as blebbing and nuclear chromatin condensation were clearly observed in treatment. The shrinkage of cells was clearly observed in H and E staining. Conclusion: In addition, annexin-V binding confirmed the presence of apoptosis significantly on Khat treatment. SUMMARY Khat (Catha edulis) is a controversial plant having euphoretic effect Reductions in cellular viability were observed at concentrations above 1.25 mg/ml while using Trypan blue assay The high concentrations of khat extract had reduced the colony formation at concentration dependent manner The acridine orange/ethidium bromide experiment had observed the apoptosis features such as blebbing and nuclear chromatin in treatment Annexin-V binding confirmed the presence of apoptosis significantly on Khat treatment.
Abbreviation used: PS: Phosphatidylserine (PS); MDBK: Madin-Darby Bovine Kidney; DMEM: Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium; PI: propidium iodide; EB: ethidium bromide; PBS: Phosphate Buffer saline; FITC: fluorescein isothiocyante; TUNEL: Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein M Ageely
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed E Agag
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Syam Mohan
- Medical Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Atef Shehata
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Khat chewing effects in the central nervous system are attributed to cathinone and cathine, which are structurally related to amphetamine. However, studies on neuropsychological problems arising from khat use in humans are not extensive and have only included observational and single-case studies. The aims of this study were to (1) to examine neuropsychological functions among khat chewers, and (2) to determine factors affecting neuropsychological outcomes among khat chewers. METHODS A sample of 70 adult male khat chewers and a control group of 72 nonchewers were recruited from the Jazan region in southwest Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire examining socioeconomic background, medical and occupational history, education, and khat chewing behaviors was administered. Neuropsychological performance was assessed using computerized tests from the Behavioral Assessment and Research System (BARS) that assessed learning, episodic and working memory, motor speed/coordination, attention/information processing speed, sustained attention, set-shifting/response inhibition, and perceptual functions; noncomputerized tests, Trail Making A and B, Block Design, and Benton Visual Retention tests were also administered. RESULTS Khat chewers performed significantly worse on 3 out of 14 neuropsychological subtests compared with the control group, representing learning, motor speed/coordination, and set-shifting/response inhibition functions. Age and educational level were identified as predictors of neuropsychological outcomes of khat chewers. CONCLUSIONS The chronic chewing of khat leaves is associated with deficits in some neuropsychological functions, which may affect the mental and neurological health of communities in which khat chewing is a common habit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Ismail
- a Department of Community and Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , Jazan University , Jizan , Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Publication of scientific articles related to khat (Catha edulis) in peer-reviewed journals is considered a measure of research productivity. The principal objectives of this study were to quantify the research contribution related to khat at the global level, as well as to determine its relative growth rate, collaborative measures taken, productivity at the institutional level, and the most prolific journals publishing on the topic. METHODS On the basis of title words related to khat, publications were identified for all data in Scopus bibliographic database's history up to December 31, 2014. The research productivity for the top 10 countries was evaluated in relation to the population size and gross domestic product (GDP) in 2013. RESULTS The criteria were met by 651documents published in 51 countries. The largest number of articles associated with khat was from the UK (15.2 %), followed by Yemen (10.3 %), the USA (9.7 %) and Ethiopia (9.1 %). Ethiopia, Yemen, and Kenya had the highest productivity of publications after standardization by population size and GDP. Furthermore, Yemen achieved the highest number of collaborations, by having researchers from 19 countries. Ethiopia followed, having researchers from 16 countries. CONCLUSIONS This bibliometric study provides a demonstration for the worldwide research activity regarding khat. The number of articles related to khat has increased rapidly over the last 10 years. The present study is a good starting point to evaluate research activity in the field of khat. Although the data shows a promising increase in the research activity, the quantity of khat-related research is still too little compared to the massive use of khat in certain countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sa'ed H Zyoud
- Poison Control and Drug Information Center (PCDIC), College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839, Palestine.
- Department of Clinical and Community Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839, Palestine.
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Al-Sharafi BA, Gunaid AA. Effect of Habitual Khat Chewing on Glycemic Control, Body Mass Index, and Age at Diagnosis of Diabetes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Yemen. Clin Med Insights Endocrinol Diabetes 2015; 8:47-53. [PMID: 26064075 PMCID: PMC4455697 DOI: 10.4137/cmed.s26045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Khat chewing is common in Yemen. We conducted this study to see if it affected diabetes control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). We studied 1540 patients with type 2 DM attending an endocrinology clinic in Sana’a, Yemen, of which 997 were khat chewers (KC) and 543 were non-khat chewers (NKC). The patients answered a questionnaire regarding khat chewing. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and body mass index (BMI) were measured. KC had a higher mean HbA1c of 9.8 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 9.6–10) than the NKC, with a mean of 9.1 (95% CI 8.9–9.4) (adjusted odds ratios (AOR) 1.74, P < 0.001) after multivariate regression analysis. KC also had a lower mean BMI, 26.9 (95% CI 26.6–27.2), than the NKC, mean BMI 27.6 (95% CI 27.1–28) (P < 0.01). The mean age at diagnosis of DM among the KC group was 43.3 (10.1) and among the NKC group was 45.9 (11.8) (AOR 1.4 P < 0.008) after multivariate regression analysis. KC patients had a higher mean HbA1c, a lower BMI, and a younger age at diagnosis of type 2 DM when compared with NKC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdallah A Gunaid
- Department of Medicine, Sana'a University Medical School, Sana'a, Yemen
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study's aim is to evaluate the possible interaction effects of khat chewing on treatment of paranoid schizophrenic patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS In the study group, 42 male subjects suffered from paranoid schizophrenia and were classified according to their khat chewing habits into two subgroups: either khat-chewer subgroup (SKc; n=21; r=11, h=10) or non-khat-chewer subgroup (SNKc; n=21, r=11, h=10). Each subgroup was further subdivided according to type of treatment into r (risperidone) and h (haloperidol). Healthy male subjects (37) were subdivided into healthy khat-chewer as positive controls (HKc, n=17) and healthy non-khat-chewer as negative controls (HNKc, n=20). Plasma dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid, 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, epinephrine, and norepinephrine were estimated. RESULTS ANOVA and post hoc analysis showed that dopamine was illustrating significant elevation in all khat chewing groups. DOPAC was illustrating significant decrease in all khat chewing groups with an interesting outcome showing significant increase in DOPAC in SNKcr group due to risperidone effect. Homovanillic acid, serotonin, hydroxyindoleacetic acid, and norepinephrine were illustrating significant elevations in all khat chewing groups. Epinephrine was illustrating significant elevation in all chewers than non-chewers groups. Unexpected significant decrease in epinephrine in the SNKcr group indicated that risperidone drug is decreasing epinephrine through indirect mechanism involving calcium. CONCLUSION Khat chewing in schizophrenic patients is contraindicated because it aggravates the disease symptoms, attenuates all used treatment medications, and deteriorates all biochemical markers of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed-I Kotb El-Sayed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Ain Helwan, Helwan, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hatem-K Amin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Ain Helwan, Helwan, Cairo, Egypt
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al’Absi M, Nakajima M, Dokam A, Sameai A, Alsoofi M, Khalil NS, Habori MA. Concurrent tobacco and khat use is associated with blunted cardiovascular stress response and enhanced negative mood: a cross-sectional investigation. Hum Psychopharmacol 2014; 29:307-15. [PMID: 24706595 PMCID: PMC5763500 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Khat (Catha edulis), an amphetamine-like plant, is widely used in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula and is becoming a growing problem in other parts of the world. The concurrent use of tobacco and khat is highly prevalent and represents a public health challenge. We examined for the first time associations of the concurrent use of tobacco and khat with psychophysiological responses to acute stress in two sites in Yemen. METHODS Participants (N = 308; 135 women) included three groups: users of khat and tobacco, users of khat alone, and a control group (nonsmokers/nonusers of khat). These individuals completed a laboratory session in which blood pressures (BP), heart rate, and mood measures were assessed during rest and in response to acute stress. RESULTS Concurrent use of khat and tobacco was associated with attenuated systolic BP, diastolic BP, and heart rate responses to laboratory stress (ps < 0.05) and with increased negative affect relative to the control group (ps < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Results demonstrated blunted cardiovascular responses to stress and enhanced negative affect in concurrent khat and tobacco users. These findings extend previous studies with other substances and suggest that adverse effects of khat use may lie in its association with the use of tobacco.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa al’Absi
- Duluth Medical Research Institute, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
| | - Motohiro Nakajima
- Duluth Medical Research Institute, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
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Widmann M, Warsame AH, Mikulica J, von Beust J, Isse MM, Ndetei D, al’Absi M, Odenwald MG. Khat Use, PTSD and Psychotic Symptoms among Somali Refugees in Nairobi - A Pilot Study. Front Public Health 2014; 2:71. [PMID: 25072043 PMCID: PMC4075009 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In East-African and Arab countries, khat leaves are traditionally chewed in social settings. They contain the amphetamine-like alkaloid cathinone. Especially among Somali refugees, khat use has been associated with psychiatric symptoms. We assessed khat-use patterns and psychiatric symptoms among male Somali refugees living in a disadvantaged urban settlement area in Kenya, a large group that has not yet received scientific attention. We wanted to explore consume patterns and study the associations between khat use, traumatic experiences, and psychotic symptoms. Using privileged access sampling, we recruited 33 healthy male khat chewers and 15 comparable non-chewers. Based on extensive preparatory work, we assessed khat use, khat dependence according to DSM-IV, traumatic experiences, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychotic symptoms using standardized diagnostic instruments that had been adapted to the Somali language and culture. Hazardous use patterns like chewing for more than 24 h without interruption were frequently reported. All khat users fulfilled the DSM-IV-criteria for dependence and 85% reported functional khat use, i.e., that khat helps them to forget painful experiences. We found that the studied group was heavily burdened by traumatic events and posttraumatic symptoms. Khat users had experienced more traumatic events and had more often PTSD than non-users. Most khat users experience khat-related psychotic symptoms and in a quarter of them we found true psychotic symptoms. In contrast, among control group members no psychotic symptoms could be detected. We found first evidence for the existence and high prevalence of severely hazardous use patterns, comorbid psychiatric symptoms, and khat use as a self-medication of trauma-consequences among male Somali refugees in urban Kenyan refugee settlements. There is a high burden by psychopathology and adequate community-based interventions urgently need to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Widmann
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Jan Mikulica
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Johannes von Beust
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - David Ndetei
- Africa Mental Health Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mustafa al’Absi
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, USA
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Michael G. Odenwald
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Vivo International, Allensbach, Germany
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Gebrehanna E, Berhane Y, Worku A. Prevalence and predictors of harmful khat use among university students in ethiopia. Subst Abuse 2014; 8:45-51. [PMID: 24940069 PMCID: PMC4055411 DOI: 10.4137/sart.s14413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Comprehensive assessment of harmful khat use is lacking because often researchers rely on a simple tool for studying it. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and predictors of harmful khat use among Ethiopian university students by developing a comprehensive scale based on Alcohol Use Identification Test, Severity of Dependency Syndrome scale, and International Classification of Diseases definition of harmful substance use. Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of harmful khat use. One in five current khat user students were identified as harmful khat users [20.6% (95% CI: 14.3-22.3)]. Harmful khat use in this study was strongly associated with chewing at commercial places [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.32 (95% CI: 1.01-5.33)], and having non-student friends accompanying the khat-chewing ceremony [AOR = 3.77 (95% CI: 1.09-13.03). Students who started chewing khat at the age of 20 years or later [AOR = 0.19 (95% CI: 0.07-0.55)] and those who preferred to study in the library [AOR = 0.31(95% CI: 0.12-0.81)] were less likely to be harmful khat users. The university authorities, in addition to provision of student guidance on substance-use prevention, need to work in collaboration with the surrounding community and responsible public authorities in order to reduce harmful use of khat by their students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Addis Ababa University, School of Community Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Shehata HS, El-Tamawy MS, Mohieldin N, Edrees M, Bohlega S. Oromandibular dystonia in yemeni patients with khat chewing: a response to botulinum toxin treatment. Neurol Int 2014; 6:5385. [PMID: 24987506 PMCID: PMC4077212 DOI: 10.4081/ni.2014.5385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Khat-(Catha edulis)related oromandibular dystonia is a difficult-to-treat subset of movement disorders that involve masticatory muscles with diverse and incapacitating manifestations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Botulinum toxin-type A therapy in khat chewer Yemeni patients with oromandibular dystonia. This prospective study included 18 khat-chewers Yemeni patients with refractory oromandibular dystonia, who were subjected to Botulinum toxin-A injection and followed up for 3 months thereafter. Primary efficacy outcome was the global impression scale, and secondary outcome measure was the Unified Dystonia Rating Scale. Patients showed improvement of both efficacy measures, maximum satisfactory responses were detected at the forth week after injection. No major adverse events were detected. Botulinum toxin-A is considered an effective and safe treatment option for refractory oromandibular dystonia in khat-chewers
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Saeed Bohlega
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre , Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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