Nigerian Journal Of Physiological Sciences[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Trends of twin births in Kogi State, north-central Nigeria.
Bakare A, Peter D, Coker MM … +1 more , Fagbenro S
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156793 · Publisher ↗
Globally, Nigeria has the highest incidence of twin births. However, within the country, there are variations in twinning rates. Information on the twinning rate in Kogi State, north-central Nigeria, is scarce. Herein, a...
Globally, Nigeria has the highest incidence of twin births. However, within the country, there are variations in twinning rates. Information on the twinning rate in Kogi State, north-central Nigeria, is scarce. Herein, a 30-year retrospective study of the incidence of twin births between 1991 and 2020 in Kogi State, north-central Nigeria was conducted. Data were obtained from six different hospitals in the state: Federal Medical Centre Lokoja, General Hospital Mopa-Muro, Zonal Hospital Kabba, Specialist Hospital Obangede, General Hospital Okene, and Prince Abubakar Audu University Teaching Hospital Anyigba. The data were analyzed monthly, quarterly, and yearly for twinning frequency using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA. There were 1783 twin deliveries during the study period, accounting for 2.60% of all deliveries. The annual incidence of twinning ranged from 20.9‰ at the Federal Medical Centre Lokoja to 28.5‰ at the Zonal Hospital Okene resulting in 25.1‰ as the average frequency of twin births for the study period in Kogi State. There is no significant difference (p>0.05) between the variations in the twinning rate. The fluctuation in the frequency of twinning in Kogi State could be due to an increase in the use of oral contraceptives, urbanization, socioeconomic factors, and a decrease in family size and reproductive age.
Mean Values, Normal Limits and Sex Differences of Heart Rate, QT Interval , QTc , PR Interval and QRS Duration among Young Adults of Yoruba Ethnicity.
Awoyinka D, Ogunlade O
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156792 · Publisher ↗
Introduction Electrocardiogram (ECG) is important for non-invasive cardiovascular health assessment. This study was carried out to determine the mean values, normal limits and sex differences of selected electrocardiogra...
Introduction Electrocardiogram (ECG) is important for non-invasive cardiovascular health assessment. This study was carried out to determine the mean values, normal limits and sex differences of selected electrocardiographic variables in young adults of Yoruba ethnicity. Method One thousand apparently healthy volunteers (500 males and 500 females) aged 18 to 40 years participated in the study. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institute of Public Health of the University. Standard 12-lead resting ECG of each participant was obtained according to standard protocol After a period of rest of 5 minutes, the chest and extremities of each participant were exposed for limb and chest electrodes placement. The ECG printouts were analyzed. Descriptive variables were expressed as means± standard deviation. The lower and upper limits were determined using 5th and 95th percentile respectively. The comparison of the mean values of the male and female variables was done using the Student t-test. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The results showed that the mean heart rate, QT interval, QTc interval, QRS duration, PR interval were 70.56 ± 10.99 bpm, 0.36 ± 0.03 s, 0.38 ± 0.03 s, 0.07 ± 0.01 s and 0.16 ± 0.02 s, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in the heart rate, QTc and QRS duration of males and females. Conclusion Among young adults of Yoruba ethnicity, sex differences exist with regard to heart rate, QT interval, QTc and QRS duration and these should be taken into consideration in ECG interpretation.
Bromelain improved cognitive & mood behaviors, oxido-inflammatory indices and cholinergic transmission in scopolamine-induced neurotoxicity in male wistar rats.
Bayo-Olugbami AA, Ukpabio P, Babalola KM … +2 more , Benson IO, Owoyele BV
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156791 · Publisher ↗
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with pathophysiological and psychological disturbances including cognitive decline, depression, anxiety and motor imbalance. Conventional drugs for managing AD do not address associ...
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with pathophysiological and psychological disturbances including cognitive decline, depression, anxiety and motor imbalance. Conventional drugs for managing AD do not address associated non-neurocognitive co-morbidities, hence the need to investigate alternative therapies especially from plants. The neuroprotective benefits of bromelain have been identified, but its impacts on scopolamine-induced neurotoxicity is yet to be elucidated. Twenty-Five male rats were separated randomly into 5 groups: Control (normal saline; 1ml/kg); Scopolamine (i.p; 1mg/kg); Bromelain (50mg/kg); Scopolamine + Bromelain; Scopolamine + Donepezil (reference drug, 1mg/kg). Neurobehavioral paradigms (novel object recognition, elevated plus maze, forced swimming and open field tests were assessed, followed by biochemical (MDA, SOD, AChE, NO, Total protein & IL-1b) assay in the PFC. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA (Tukey's posthoc.). Values with p<0.05 were considered significant. Scopolamine reduced memory index (P<0.01) (cognitive function), ambulatory & rearing activities (P<0.05) (motor behavior), open arm duration (P<0.001) (anxiety-like behavior) & increased immobility time (P<0.05) (depressive-like behavior). Exposure to scopolamine also led to significant reduction in the prefrontal cortical levels of SOD (P<0.05) while increasing MDA (P<0.05), acetylcholinesterase (P<0.01) and IL-1β (P<0.05). However, levels of NO and total protein were not significantly altered. In contrast, intervention with bromelain or donepezil significantly reversed most of the behavioral and biochemical alterations induced by scopolamine. Bromelain compared favorably with donepezil in improving memory decline and other non-cognitive dysfunctions associated with scopolamine exposure. This could have resulted from modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation and cholinergic transmission. Key words: Bromelain; Scopolamine; Oxidative stress; Neurotoxicity; Neuro-inflammation; Behavior.
Effect of Moringa oleifera feed inclusion on nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertension in a murine model.
Adejumobi OA, Ake AS, Aderoju AA … +8 more , Ajibade TO, Igado OO, Alaka OO, Ohore OG, Oyagbemi AA, Adedapo AA, Yakubu MA, Omobowale TO
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2025 Mar · PMID 40156790 · Publisher ↗
Moringa oleifera (MO) has been recognized for its numerous beneficial properties. This study aimed to evaluate the potential antihypertensive effects of MO seeds in rats subjected to Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-N...
Moringa oleifera (MO) has been recognized for its numerous beneficial properties. This study aimed to evaluate the potential antihypertensive effects of MO seeds in rats subjected to Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) exposure. Fifty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups of 10 rats each for the experiment. Group A served as the control, received normal saline only, Group B received L-NAME (40 mg/kg) only, Group C received L-NAME (40 mg/kg) + 10% MO feed, Group D received L-NAME (40 mg/kg) + 20% MO feed, and Group E received L-NAME (40 mg/kg) + Lisinopril (10 mg/kg). Treatment was daily and covered a period of 5 weeks. Blood pressure and electrocardiographic measurements were obtained using a non-invasive tail cuff blood pressure device and a 6/7 lead computer ECG equipment, respectively. Heart and kidney tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress parameters, and immunohistochemistry and histopathology of the heart and kidney were conducted using standard methods. L-NAME treatment led to a significant increase in diastolic and systolic values compared to the control group. Serum nitric oxide concentration significantly decreased in rats that received L-NAME alone, while co-treatment with MO and Lisinopril showed a significant increase in nitric oxide levels. Co-treatment with MO and Lisinopril significantly reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in the cardiac and renal tissues, whereas L-NAME alone caused a significant increase in MDA concentration. The expressions of cardiac and renal caspase-3 significantly increased in L-NAME alone treated rats, while co-treatments with MO and Lisinopril significantly reduced the expressions of caspase-3. In conclusion, co-treatment with MO effectively reduced arterial pressure and indices of hypertension in rats, mitigated the oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by L-NAME. Therefore, the inclusion of MO seeds in hypertension management may serve as an effective remedy. Keywords: Moringa oliefera, L-NAME, Hypertension, Oxidative Stress, Nitric oxide.
Carvedilol and clomiphene combination therapy alleviates inflammation and redox imbalance in experimental PCOS: role of Nrf2/HMOX-1 and NfkB signaling.
Ayodeji AJ, Odetayo A, Akintoye OO … +4 more , Oriyomi AI, Orugun ST, Busari AM, Olayaki LA
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156789 · Publisher ↗
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenemia, irregular menstrual cycle, and small cysts on the ovaries. This condition can be morphological or biochemical (elevated testosterone). Elevated test...
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenemia, irregular menstrual cycle, and small cysts on the ovaries. This condition can be morphological or biochemical (elevated testosterone). Elevated testosterone (hyperandrogenemia) is the hallmark of PCOS, which can inhibit follicular development, anovulation, or cause irregular menstrual changes. Unfortunately, there is no cure for PCOS, and available treatment options are restricted to mitigating its symptoms. This study was, however, designed to investigate the synergistic effect of clomiphene (CLO) and carvedilol (CAL) on PCOS-induced female infertility. Thirty female Wistar rats were randomized into 5 groups (n= 6/group) control, PCOS, PCOS+ CLO, PCOS+CAL, and PCOS+ CLO+CAL. The administration was once daily via the oral route and lasted for 15 days. Clomiphene and carvedilol synergistically ameliorated PCOS-induced elevated serum gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone and prolactin, and decreased follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen and progesterone. This was accompanied by the downregulation of PCOS-induced overexpression of ovarian LH, androgen, and FSH receptors. It was also accompanied by a decrease in inflammatory markers such as ovarian interleukin 1 beta and Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and apoptosis markers such as ovarian caspase 3 and an increase in ovarian Nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Heme Oxygenase 1 (HO 1 or HMO-1), catalase and glutathione reductase. This study shows that carvedilol and clomiphene combination therapy alleviates inflammation and redox imbalance in experimental PCOS.
Ursolic Acid Ameliorates Vascular Oxidative Stress and Upregulates Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Gene in Male Wistar Rats with High-carbohydrate High-fat Diet-induced Metabolic Syndrome.
Omodara MO, Kawu MU, Bako IG … +3 more , Isa AS, Mhya HD, Ali Z
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156788 · Publisher ↗
The development of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes is preceded by the risk factors of metabolic syndrome (MS) which are often induced by high-carbohydrate high-fat diet (HCHFD) together with sedentary lifesty...
The development of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes is preceded by the risk factors of metabolic syndrome (MS) which are often induced by high-carbohydrate high-fat diet (HCHFD) together with sedentary lifestyle. These risk factors are associated with vascular dysfunction. Our previous study has shown that ursolic acid (UA) prevents the development of these risk factors of MS induced by HCHFD, but the potential mechanism involved in the amelioration of vascular dysfunction induced by HCHFD has not been explained. This study investigated the mechanism by which dietary UA supplementation improves vascular dysfunction and the corresponding vascular oxidative stress in male Wistar rats fed a HCHFD. Twenty (20) male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (n =5): 1- normal diet (ND) + distilled water (DW); 2 - ND+UA; 3 - HCHFD+DW; 4 - HCHFD+UA. HCHFD was formulated in-house. The animals were fed their respective diets daily for 20 weeks. The drinking water of animals fed a HCHFD was augmented with 20% fructose. 250 mg/kg body weight of ursolic acid was administered orally to UA-treated groups for the last 8 weeks of the study. Body mass index (BMI) and abdominal circumference were evaluated; serum insulin and nitric oxide were assessed by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits; and insulin resistance was determined using the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Aortic antioxidant enzymes and reactive oxygen species were evaluated. Aorta and adipose tissues' endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction technique. There was a significantly (P<0.05) lowered BMI percentage increase in the HCHFD+UA-fed animals compared to the HCHFD+DW-fed animals. In the HCHFD+UA-fed animals, serum insulin and HOMA-IR were significantly (P<0.05) decreased compared to the HCHFD+DW-fed animals. Serum nitric oxide was significantly (P<0.05) increased in HCHFD+UA-fed animals compared to the HCHFD+DW-fed animals. In HCHFD+UA-fed animals, aorta superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione were significantly (P<0.05) increased, compared to the HCHFD+DW-fed animals. Aorta reactive oxygen species was significantly (P<0.05) decreased in HCHFD+UA-fed animals compared to the HCHFD+DW-fed animals. Both aorta and adipose tissue eNOS mRNA level was significantly (P<0.05) more expressed in the HCHFD+UA-fed animals compared to the HCHFD+DW-fed animals. Findings from this study showed that ursolic acid supplementation ameliorates vascular dysfunction by upregulating eNOS gene in male Wistar rats with high-carbohydrate high-fat diet (HCHFD)-induced metabolic syndrome.
The Effect of Vitamin D Level on Blood Glucose, HbA1c and Some Inflammatory Markers in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Ali N, Alaagib N, Abdelatif A … +6 more , Ali O, Elmagbol W, Alhojaily S, Albokhadaim I, Shousha S, Alameen A
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156787 · Publisher ↗
Diabetes problems are more likely to occur in people with low vitamin D levels. In this study, Sudanese individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) had their serum glucose, HbA1c, vitamin D, and inflammato...
Diabetes problems are more likely to occur in people with low vitamin D levels. In this study, Sudanese individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) had their serum glucose, HbA1c, vitamin D, and inflammatory markers assessed. Thirty men and thirty women who had been diagnosed with T2DM for at least two years were among the 120 participants of both sexes, ages 35 to 69, who were enrolled in this case-control study. As a control group, the second group consisted of sixty healthy individuals (30 men and 30 women). Every participant had a thorough medical history taken, with special attention to the length of their diabetes, its medical history, and any previous problems. During the clinical examination and laboratory tests, the following criteria were evaluated: total WBC, ESR, CRP, HbA1c, and serum vitamin D3. When 25(OH) vitamin D3 levels were utilized to assess T2DM patients, they showed significantly lower mean blood concentrations than controls: 23 (38.3%) had vitamin D insufficiency, 23 (38.3%) had vitamin D deficiency, and 14 (23.3%) had sufficient vitamin D. Vitamin D-deficient patients had significant increases in HbA1c, glucose, CRP, and total WBC. Additionally, when comparing the mean ESR values of diabetes patients to those of the control group, there is a statistically significant rise. ESR did not significantly alter depending on the controlling level. Males also had a numerically higher level of vitamin D3 than females. Compared to healthy normal controls, individuals with type 2 diabetes have noticeably reduced vitamin D3 levels. Furthermore, in T2DM patients, there was a connection between elevated inflammatory markers and HbA1c and insufficiency in vitamin D.
Hematopoietic alteration in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury and amelioration by Vitex agnus castus extract.
Ajani RS, Akpovwovwo NA
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156786 · Publisher ↗
Although the liver is not a primary hematopoietic site after the period of embryogenesis, however liver diseases in human can have adverse effects on hematopoiesis. This study evaluated the ability of Vitex angus-castus...
Although the liver is not a primary hematopoietic site after the period of embryogenesis, however liver diseases in human can have adverse effects on hematopoiesis. This study evaluated the ability of Vitex angus-castus extract to ameliorate hematopoietic alteration occasioned by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced acute liver injury. Varying doses of V. angus-castus plant extract were administered to groups of rats with CCl4 Induced acute liver injury. The low dose group (LEL) had 200mg/Kg body weight; the medium dose (MEL) had 400 mg/kg while the high dose group (HEL) had 600 mg/Kg of the extract once daily for 21 days. Each group had composite control without liver injury ie LE, ME and HE. The packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration (Hb%), red blood cell count (RBC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were similar across the groups. Groups LEL and ME had significantly elevated white blood cell count (WBC). Amongst the composite groups ie LE: LEL; ME:MEL; & HE:HEL, there was significant difference within the composite group. The WBC differential was lymphocyte predominant without significant difference. The two low extract groups (LE & LEL) had significant thrombocytopenia ie low platelet count. The ethanolic extract of V. angus-castus only affects the white cell and platelet components of the blood and not the erythrocyte parameters.
Evaluation of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate Among Medical Students During Physiology Practical.
Ochayi O, Nwankwo M, Nnamdi O … +1 more , Akinlade B
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156785 · Publisher ↗
The present study evaluates the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) among second-year medical students during a physiology practical session at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Baze University, Abuja. Conducted...
The present study evaluates the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) among second-year medical students during a physiology practical session at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Baze University, Abuja. Conducted by the Department of Human Physiology's Laboratory Manual (Exp. 25, Pp. 90), the study involved 20 students (10 males and 10 females) aged 17-25 years. Participants voluntarily engaged in the practical following a 30-minute pre-lab demonstration. Anthropometric measurements, including standing height (in cm) and weight (in kg), were taken, and PEFR was measured in liters/minute using a Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter. Measurements were conducted in triplicate, with the highest value recorded. Descriptive analyses were expressed as mean ± standard deviations (SDs), and data normality was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test and boxplot. An unpaired sample t-test was performed to compare anthropometric and physiological variables between genders; with data analysis conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 27.0). Results indicated that PEFR was significantly higher in males than females (P < 0.001), independent of height, weight, and BMI. Additionally, a significant inverse correlation between PEFR and BMI was observed in males (r = ‒0.67, P < 0.05), whereas no significant correlation was found in females. This study underscores the gender differences in PEFR among medical students and highlights the influence of BMI on PEFR in males. These findings contribute to a better understanding of respiratory physiology in young adults and emphasize the importance of considering gender-specific factors in respiratory assessments.
Exercise attenuates the effect of high salt intake on the cardiovascular function, oxygen saturation,lung function and renal function of young men.
Jaja SI, Adekogbe O
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156784 · Publisher ↗
UNLABELLED: Coronary heart disease (CAD), respiratory disease, and early-onset renal failure, which until recently were only common in high-income countries, are now the dominant source of morbidity and mortality among y...
UNLABELLED: Coronary heart disease (CAD), respiratory disease, and early-onset renal failure, which until recently were only common in high-income countries, are now the dominant source of morbidity and mortality among young Nigerian adults. However, epidemiological studies have suggested the possibility of high dietary salt intake and physical inactivity as behavioral factors that may be responsible for these growing trend. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the influence of elevated salt intake and physical activity and inactivity on the pulmonary function, cardiovascular, and renal function of young Nigerian men. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A total of 20 subjects, comprising 10 non-exercising young men (control) and 10 exercising young men, participated in the study after obtaining an approval from the ethical committee of the animal and human research bioethics department. Lung function, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, urine volume, urine pH, and urine Na+ and K+ concentration were measured under resting conditions before and after five days of 200mmol of salt loads in both groups. The data was analyzed using the SPSS Statistics software package Version 19. The unpaired t-test was used to calculate the P-value across the groups. The paired t-test was used to calculate the p-value within the groups. Statistical significance was reached when P < 0.05. RESULTS: Salt loading had no significant effect on the pulmonary function of the control subjects. However, salt loading worsened the pulmonary function values of the exercising subjects, with FEV1, FVC, and PEFR decreased significantly by -0.05 ± 0.05 L, -0.003 ± 0.01 L, and -20.20 ± 7.11 L/min, respectively, without affecting oxygen saturation (SPO2) and FEV1%. Salt loading caused a greater increase in the blood pressure parameters of the non-exercising subjects, with systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, mean arterial pressure, and pulse pressure significantly increased by 18.00 ± 2.04 mmHg, 11.90 ± 1.52 mmHg, 13.97 ± 1.98 mmHg, and 6.20 ± 0.24 mmHg, respectively. In summary, exercising subjects eliminate salt loads more effectively than the non-exercising subjects to reduce salt retention. This might be as a result of the trigger of several pathophysiological mechanisms that alter vital body functions such as respiratory function, renal function, and cardiovascular functions.
Mitigation of Diclofenac-Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity by Methanolic Extract of Cymbopogon citratus.
Adeniyi T, Moronkeji A, Ajala O … +4 more , Oyeleke A, Moronkeji AI, Falana F, Belema NB
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156783 · Publisher ↗
Despite the wide range of advantages of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac, their abuse can have a deleterious impact on the hepatorenal system. This study evaluated the histopathological a...
Despite the wide range of advantages of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac, their abuse can have a deleterious impact on the hepatorenal system. This study evaluated the histopathological and molecular effects of NSAIDs-induced hepatorenal toxicity on the expression of TGFβ and Nrf2 in the liver and kidneys of adult male Wistar rats treated with methanolic leaf extracts of Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass). Twenty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. The first group were the unexposed control rats administered with distilled water only, while the test groups (II-IV) were orally administered with diclofenac at a standard dosage of 5mg/kg/BW. The rats in groups III and IV were administered with methanolic extract of Cymbopogon citratus at 100mg/kg/BW and 200mg/kg/BW respectively. After 28 days, the rats were euthanized by cervical dislocation, and the liver and kidneys were histologically processed. mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) was then analyzed. The results revealed significant pathological alterations in the histoarchitecture of the livers and kidneys of the untreated NSAIDs-exposed rats with the administration of Cymbopogon citratus effectively reducing oxidative damage by modulating the expression of Nrf-2 and TGF-β while also ameliorating the histological derangement observed in the studied organs. Cymbopogon citratus modulates the expression of TGF-β and Nrf-2 in the liver and kidneys of the experimental animals consequently mitigating diclofenac-induced oxidative damage in the studied organs.
Age-Related Changes in Cognition, Plasma Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factors and Selected Indices of Inflammation in Adults at Different Decades of Life.
Rahamon SK, Yusuff AO, Ayinde OO … +1 more , Taiwo F
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156782 · Publisher ↗
Ageing is associated with neurological disorders that are characterized by cognitive impairment. Reports have shown that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Similarly...
Ageing is associated with neurological disorders that are characterized by cognitive impairment. Reports have shown that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Similarly, chronic inflammation-associated with ageing plays important roles in immunosenescence. However, there is the dearth of information on age-related changes in BDNF level and inflammation. This study was thus, designed to determine cognition, plasma levels of BDNF and selected indices of inflammation in adults at different decades of life. Eighty-eight adults sub-divided into 4 groups; Group I (30 - 39 years), Group II (40 - 49 years), Group III (50 - 59 years) and Group IV (≥60 years) were enrolled into this cross-sectional study. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-mental state examination (MMSE). Plasma levels of BDNF and nitric oxide (NO) were determined using ELISA and spectrophotometry. White blood cell count and differentials were done using standard methods and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was calculated appropriately. There was significant progressive reduction in cognitive score and plasma levels of BDNF as decades of life increase. The neurocognitive scores were significantly higher in Group I, Group II, and Group III compared with Group IV. Similarly, the median plasma level of BDNF was significantly higher in Group I compared with Groups III and IV. Also, the mean mixed count was significantly higher in Group IV compared with Group I while the mean plasma level of NO was significantly higher in Groups II and III compared with Group I. Regression analysis showed that age negatively related with cognition (R2 = 0.522, p = 0.000) and BDNF level (R2 = 0.095, p = 0.003). Furthermore, BDNF had significant positive correlation with the neurocognitive score in Group I. There is progressive reduction in plasma BDNF level and cognitive score with increasing decades of life. This may indicate that plasma BDNF level could predict susceptibility to neurocognitive dysfunction as ageing progresses.
The Translational Physiologist in Strengthening Research to Enhance Quality of Life.
Jaja SI
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156781 · Publisher ↗
Thematic Lecture presented to the Physiological Society of Nigeria at its 41st Annual Scientific Meeting held at the Rivers State University, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State from February 11 - 17, 2024.
Thematic Lecture presented to the Physiological Society of Nigeria at its 41st Annual Scientific Meeting held at the Rivers State University, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State from February 11 - 17, 2024.
Cross-Examination and Comparison of Effects of Nutritive and Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on Male Reproductive Health Using Wistar Rat Model.
Aikpitanyi I, Okeke OC, Ogbara FF … +4 more , Ayunku EA, Nweke SM, Iyamu M, Amaku HA
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156780 · Publisher ↗
Sucrose and saccharin are prevalent sweeteners in today's diet, playing crucial roles in global food and beverage consumption. The intake of sucrose, a natural sweetener, alongside saccharin, an artificial alternative, h...
Sucrose and saccharin are prevalent sweeteners in today's diet, playing crucial roles in global food and beverage consumption. The intake of sucrose, a natural sweetener, alongside saccharin, an artificial alternative, has raised various health concerns related to their effects on reproductive health. This study specifically focuses on how these sweeteners influence male reproductive parameters, including sperm quality, hormonal levels (such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone {FSH}, Luteinizing Hormone {LH}, and Testosterone), reproductive gene expressions, as well as the functionality of reproductive organs, utilizing animal models (in vivo). By conducting a thorough review of existing literature and experimental studies, this project seeks to assess whether exposure to sucrose and saccharin poses risks to male reproductive functions, while also identifying the mechanisms through which these substances impact male reproductive health. The investigation centers on the effects of sucrose and saccharin on reproductive function in male Wistar rats. Thirty male albino Wistar rats, each weighing between 180-200 grams, were randomly assigned to three groups: Group One served as the control, Group Two received sucrose (100 mg/kg), and Group Three was administered saccharin (5 mg/kg). The findings indicated that levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Luteinizing Hormone, Testosterone, and Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein (StAR) significantly decreased in the sucrose and saccharin groups compared to the control group. Additionally, the testicular antioxidant Malondialdehyde levels increased relative to the control, while Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase levels were significantly decreased. Furthermore, sperm profile-including sperm count, motility, and viability-showed significant alterations when compared to the control group. These results suggest that both sucrose and saccharin can negatively impact reproductive function by diminishing testicular antioxidant activity, altering sperm characteristics (count, motility, and viability), and inhibiting StAR, ultimately leading to testicular damage. Keywords: Sucrose, Saccharin, Sweeteners, Hormonal levels, Sperm quality. Wistar rats.
Review of immune-metabolic studies and re-purposed treatments of Nigerian COVID-19 patients: A pointer to mild, gender- and age-based status of admitted patients.
Arinola G, Onifade AA, Adigun K … +1 more , Oshingbesan MB
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156779 · Publisher ↗
When Severe Acute Respiratory human Coronavirus 2 (SARS-hCOV 2) infection began in December 2019, detailed knowledge about the virus was lacking. This included non-availability of anti-viral treatment or vaccine, no know...
When Severe Acute Respiratory human Coronavirus 2 (SARS-hCOV 2) infection began in December 2019, detailed knowledge about the virus was lacking. This included non-availability of anti-viral treatment or vaccine, no knowledge of virus-human interaction, and lack of prognostic factors for stages of illness among others. A publication in Nigerian Journal of Physiological Sciences (2020). 35: 20-25 titled "Immune Responses During Human Coronavirus Infection: Suggestions For Future Studies" adduced investigations into immune parameters of COVID-19 patients so as to throw more light on the immunopathogenesis of SAR-CoV-2 infection, in order to create avenue for the development of vaccines or herd immunity. This present publication is a review of studies carried out on COVID-19 patients in one Infectious Diseases Center (I.D.C), Ibadan, Nigeria as a response to the gaps in knowledge raised in above mentioned publication. Cummulatively, immune-metabolic studies from this IDC revealed mild, age- and sex-dependent status of COVID-19 in patients admitted into this center. Thus, explaining the basis for the effectiveness of adopted re-purposed drugs (chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, zinc, vitamins C and D and or antibiotics), physiotherapy and nutritional support used for the management of admitted COVID-19 patients. Also, this paper vindicated that inflammation was heightened during SARS-CoV 2 infection; therefore therapeutic interventions to control the inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, antibodies against structural and non-structural proteins or blocks receptor sites were proposed. In addition, development of herd immunity and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines (Astrazeneca and Moderna) were elucidated in general population. However, study to determine host genetic factors in hCoV infection was lacking. This review concluded that interdisciplinary collaborative approach will be useful in the management of future emerging or re-emerging infection.
Changes in the subcortical white matter and the pyramidal neurons in the sensorimotor cortex of juvenile hydrocephalic rats.
Femi-Akinlosotu O, Olopade F, Okoye C … +1 more , Shokunbi T
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156778 · Publisher ↗
Hydrocephalus, the aberrant enlargement of the brain's ventricles, is caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid that stretches the periventricular white matter and may disrupt the connections between the pyramidal neur...
Hydrocephalus, the aberrant enlargement of the brain's ventricles, is caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid that stretches the periventricular white matter and may disrupt the connections between the pyramidal neurons in the cerebral cortex. Using an intra-cisternal kaolin injection hydrocephalic rat model, we aimed to determine if the effects of hydrocephalus on the white matter will subsequently impact the dendrites of cortical pyramidal neurons, which are the synaptic sites for the white matter fibres, particularly the afferent fibres. Three-week-old hydrocephalic rats were compared with controls after 1 week, 2 weeks and 4 weeks. Dendritic arborisations of the pyramidal neurons were evaluated using a modified Golgi stain. Haematoxylin and Eosin, and Cresyl violet stains were used to measure cortical thickness and pyramidal neuronal count. The hydrocephalic rats' cerebral cortex and corpus callosum were thinner (p<0.0001) than the controls. Rats with hydrocephalus had a similar pyramidal neuron count to the controls, with no significant decline. After two weeks of hydrocephalic induction, the pyramidal neurons' dendritic branching changed due to basal dendritic reduction and denudation. Reduced thickness in the corpus callosum and sensorimotor cortex was observed in the hydrocephalus animals. The pyramidal cell population remained unaffected, but the basal dendrites of the cells were substantially weakened. Ventricular enlargements during the juvenile developmental stage may harm dendritic arborization, which could obstruct neurological maturation.
Modulatory effect of ethanol root extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius on fertility of hypertensive Wistar rats induced by Nw-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester.
Adejumobi OA, Ajani OS, Faturoti JT … +10 more , Adewoyin AG, Ajani TF, Esan OO, Oyagbemi AA, Omobowale TO, Adedapo AA, Ohore OG, Oyeyemi MO, Ashafa AOT, Yakubu MA
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156777
This study was designed to investigate the modulatory effect of ethanol root extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius (SL) on the fertility of hypertensive Wistar rats induced by Nw-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester. Fifty adult...
This study was designed to investigate the modulatory effect of ethanol root extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius (SL) on the fertility of hypertensive Wistar rats induced by Nw-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester. Fifty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups A-E. The rats in group A (Control) were administered with distilled water while Groups B-E received L-NAME at 40 mg/kg, Groups C, D, were co-administered SL at dosage of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight, respectively, and group E was co-administered with Captopril 20 mg/kg once daily for 28 days. L-NAME caused a significant increase in blood pressure (mmHg) with Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) (159.08±2.89), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) (114.67±3.83) and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) (120.90±4.65) values when compared with their respective control of (115.00±2.81, 80.91±2.76 and 91.9±2.68) in Group B. The high blood pressure was however lowered im groups co-administered with SL and Captopril. Higher morphological alterations of sperm cells were observed in hypertensive rats and hypertensive rats medicated with captopril in this study, It was noticed that the right testicular weight and right testicular length in group C were affected significantly when compared to the left testicular parameter in groups A and B. Semen characteristics showed a decrease in sperm motility and livability in hypertensive rats group compared to the control and extract treated groups. This decrease fell below acceptable 60 % minimum sperm motility recommended for breeding animals and percentage of the abnormal sperm cell in group B is higher than 20% maximum acceptable limit in normal breeding animals. Hypertension altered the reproductive indices in rats used for this study and could result in infertility but ethanol extract of S. latifolius ameliorated the reproductive organ damage in hypertensive rats. Keywords: Hypertension, Infertility, rats, Sarcocephalus latifolius, Nw-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester.
ABSTRACTS OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE XLIST ANNUAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF NIGERIA : 13-16 February, 2024, Rivers State University, Port Hacourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156776
Abstracts of papers presented at the XLIST ANNUAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF NIGERIA held between 13th and 16th February 2024 at the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, and PAMO University...
Abstracts of papers presented at the XLIST ANNUAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF NIGERIA held between 13th and 16th February 2024 at the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, and PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
The Year 2024, Nigeria's Physiology Family and the Plethora of Exits.
Olaleye SB
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2024 Dec · PMID 40156775 · Publisher ↗
The Physiological Society of Nigeria mourns the loss, in the first half of the year 2024, of five distinguished members who left indelible marks and footprints in the sand of time. The contributions of Professors Chikodi...
The Physiological Society of Nigeria mourns the loss, in the first half of the year 2024, of five distinguished members who left indelible marks and footprints in the sand of time. The contributions of Professors Chikodi Anigbogu (23 December 1953 - 2 January 2024); David Oyebola (1 October 1945-13 February 2024); Anthony Ebeigbe (22 August 1950 - 30 May 2024); Vincent Iyawe (14 April 1953 - 8 June 2024) and Olusoga Solofa (24 January 1947 - 10 June 2024) to the establishment and growth of the Physiological Society of Nigeria are well appreciated.
Immunohistochemical and morphological changes associated with hepatic damage in lead acetate-induced toxicity and mitigatory properties of naringin in cockerel chicks.
Esan O, Ajibade TO, Ebirim CG … +8 more , Adetona MO, Oyagbemi AA, Omobowale TO, Oladele OA, Adedapo AA, Oguntibeju O, Yakubu MA, Nwulia E
Niger J Physiol Sci · 2023 Dec · PMID 38696693 · Publisher ↗
Lead (Pb) toxicity constitutes a major health hazard to both humans and animals especially in the developing countries. It is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant found in the air essentially because of unregulated min...
Lead (Pb) toxicity constitutes a major health hazard to both humans and animals especially in the developing countries. It is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant found in the air essentially because of unregulated mining and other industrial activities. Lead can be found naturally in the soil thus, contaminating crops for human and animal food, as well as run-off water and air pollution. Intensively and extensively reared domestic chickens are exposed to contamination via inhalation and ingestion of contaminated food materials. Naringin, a product from citrus plant has been described to possess excellent metal chelating ability. Naringin is rich in flavonoid with attendant antioxidant, anti-autophagy, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective and cardio-nephroprotective properties. This study was conducted to investigate the hepatoprotective and modulation of oxidative stress in commercial cockerel chickens by Naringin. Thirty-six commercial cockerel chickens were randomly assigned into six groups A-F of six birds each viz: Group A served as control group while groups B, C, and D received Lead acetate at 300 ppm via drinking water continuously till the end of the experiment. In addition, groups C and D were treated with Naringin at 80 mg/kg and 160mg/kg, respectively, via oral gavage for 8 weeks. Groups E and F were administered naringin only at 80mg/kg and 160mg/kg respectively for eight weeks. Pb toxicity induced degenerative changes in the histological sections as well as, higher expression of hepatic caspase 3 as shown by immunohistochemistry. There was increased oxidative stress markers (H2O2, MDA) and depletion of the antioxidant defense system markers SOD, GPx, GSH, and GST. It concluded that Co- treatment with Naringin ameliorated oxidative stress, enhanced antioxidant defense system, reduced the expression of hepatic caspase 3 thus, offering protection against lead acetate-induced derangements in the liver of commercial cockerel chickens.
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