The hyperglycaemia of diabetes mellitus (DM) induces oxidative stress which damages the tissues. Glibenclamide, an oral hypoglycaemic drug used in the treatment of DM has associated side effects. Natural products are con...The hyperglycaemia of diabetes mellitus (DM) induces oxidative stress which damages the tissues. Glibenclamide, an oral hypoglycaemic drug used in the treatment of DM has associated side effects. Natural products are considered safe in the treatment of chronic diseases. Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) is a plant that has demonstrated antidiabetic activity. We aimed to determine the potential benefits of co-administration of HS and glibenclamide in ameliorating oxidative stress in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. A total of 25 male albino Wistar rats were divided randomly into five groups: control (Non-DM), diabetic (DM), diabetic treated with 600µg/kg BW of glibenclamide (DM + GLIB), diabetic treated with 500mg/kg BW of HS (DM + HS), diabetic treated with both 600µg/kg BW of glibenclamide and 500mg/kg BW of HS (DM + GLIB + HS). The interventions were administered for a period of 28 days. The Non-DM rats were significantly heavier (p<0.01) compared to rats in the other treatment groups. Glibenclamide or HS alone and in combination, significantly lowered (p < 0.001) the final fasting blood glucose concentration of the rats in the respective treatment groups. HS and a combination of HS+ GLIB resulted in increased (p<0.05) serum activity of catalase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase compared to the DM untreated rats. The serum level of malondialdehyde was significantly lowered (p=0.000) in rats that received a combination of HS + GLIB compared to the DM untreated rats. Coadministration of HS + GLIB showed beneficial regeneration of islet-cells in the pancreas. Co-administration of HS + GLIB appears to be more beneficial in the treatment of DM and associated oxidative stress than when given as single agents. Thus, a case for their incorporation as a combined therapy for DM should be considered.
Akwiwu E, Okafor A, Akpan P
… +4 more, Akpotuzor J, Asemota E, Okoroiwu H, Anyanwu S
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987252
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a health challenge in Nigeria, and women of reproductive age are disproportionately infected. P53 protein, D-dimer, serum ferritin, CD4 cell count, haemoglobin concent...Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a health challenge in Nigeria, and women of reproductive age are disproportionately infected. P53 protein, D-dimer, serum ferritin, CD4 cell count, haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit levels were measured among non-pregnant women of reproductive age living with HIV infection in order to assess the impact of HIV infection on maternal health. A hundred and sixty-two subjects categorised into three groups of 54 persons each involving; newly diagnosed, subjects on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and apparently healthy control subjects were recruited. Blood samples were analyzed for haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit, CD4 cell count, serum ferritin, D-dimer and p53 protein levels by standard methods. The CD4 cell count, serum p53 protein, and Hb Conc. were significantly lower, while serum ferritin was higher in the newly diagnosed group (p=0.001), followed by the group on HAART (p=0.001) compared to the controls. D-dimer level was significantly lower in the control group (2899.11±670.73pg/ml) than both newly diagnosed (4842.44±489.40pg/ml) and HAART (4660.31±519.83pg/ml) groups, while significant decrease in haematocrit was observed between the newly diagnosed group (0.336±0.07l/l) as against both treated (0.378±0.04l/l) and control (0.362±0.02l/l) groups. D-dimer correlated negatively with serum p53 protein level among the newly diagnosed subjects and with Hb Conc. among subjects undergoing treatment. The study concludes that women of reproductive age living with HIV infection showed higher D-dimer and lower tumour suppression protein levels as well as anaemia and reduced immune response. The newly diagnosed subjects were more affected.
Onasanwo SA, Adebimpe-John OE, Olopade FE
… +1 more, Olajide OO
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987251
Kolaviron is a mixture of bi-flavonoids from seed Garcinia kola seed, and has been previously shown to exhibit Nrf2 antioxidant-mediated inhibition of neuroinflammation in LPS-activated BV2 microglia. In this study, we... Kolaviron is a mixture of bi-flavonoids from seed Garcinia kola seed, and has been previously shown to exhibit Nrf2 antioxidant-mediated inhibition of neuroinflammation in LPS-activated BV2 microglia. In this study, we investigated neuroprotective effects of kolaviron in LPS-induced memory impairment in rats. Wistar rats (225-250) g was used for this study. Memory impairment was induced with the systematic administration of 250 µg/mg lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The effect of kolaviron on the cognition and learning processes were assessed using the behavioral responses in the Morris water maze model. Effects of LPS injections on the physiological activities were assessed by biochemical assays before and after treatment. Peripheral administration of LPS showed reduction in the cognitive and locomotor process. It also led to reductions in the core body temperature, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase levels, with an increase in Membrane lipid-peroxidation (MDA), intracellular glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (NO2). These pro-inflammatory mediators produced in response to LPS are hypothesized to affect cognition, and kolaviron was able to ameliorate the effect by significantly improving the cognitive and learning processes, revealed in the reduction of escape latency and path-length during the probe trial and increase in time spent within the quadrant during retrieval using Morris water maze. Similarly, LPS at 250 µg/kg induced a hypothermic effect in the treated animals. Kolaviron significantly was able to ameliorate the level of SOD and CAT by causing a significant increase while it caused a significant reduction in the level of NO2, GSH, and MDA. Kolaviron has considerable anti-inflammatory potentials, reducing lipopolysaccharide activation of macrophages. The memory-enhancing activity of kolaviron was comparable to Sulindac sulfide (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug).
Ekakitie MO, Okoro FE, Nwite EJ
… +3 more, Chukwunweike C, Fredrick CC, Emelike CU
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987250
Hyperlipidemia is emerging as an important cause of adverse health outcomes including cardiovascular complications, obesity, metabolic disorders, and infertility. A total of twenty-five (25) male albino Wistar rats were...Hyperlipidemia is emerging as an important cause of adverse health outcomes including cardiovascular complications, obesity, metabolic disorders, and infertility. A total of twenty-five (25) male albino Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n=5): Normal control, Hyperlipidemic control group which was administered (intra-peritoneal) with 0.2ml/10g body weight of egg yolk and then terminated after twenty-four (24) hours, Hyperlipidemic non-treated group which were administered with 0.2ml/10g body weight of egg yolk and were left throughout the treatment period. Hyperlipidemic low-dose treated group (administered 0.2ml/10g body weight of egg yolk, 800mg/kg body weight of methanolic extract of Citrullus lanatus seed-MECLS), and Hyperlipidemic high-dose treated group (administered 0.2ml/10g body weight of egg yolk, and 1600mg/kg body weight of MECLS). No significant change was observed in testosterone levels and sperm count across all groups. However, a statistically significant increase (P<0.05) in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels was observed in Hyperlipidemic non-treated and Hyperlipidemic low-dose treated group when compared to Normal Control Group. They also showed marked testicular damage and significantly decreased (P<0.05) sperm cell motility and significantly increased sperm cell abnormalities. Hyperlipidemic low and high dose groups exhibited moderate and complete regeneration of testicular histo-architecture respectively. Furthermore, high dose treated group showed a significant decrease in sperm count, motility, LH and FSH levels. This study suggests that MECLS dose dependently ameliorates testicular damage induced by hyperlipidemia but may affect sperm cell characteristics.
Emikpe BO, Asare DA, Emikpe AO
… +2 more, Folitse RD, Botchway LN
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987249
This study aimed at assessing the knowledge base and perception of telemedicine among veterinary students in Ghana. It involved a cross sectional survey and online structured questionnaires were administered to 114 vete...This study aimed at assessing the knowledge base and perception of telemedicine among veterinary students in Ghana. It involved a cross sectional survey and online structured questionnaires were administered to 114 veterinary students to access their knowledge of telemedicine and the perceived utilisation, benefits, complexity and disadvantages of telemedicine. Descriptive statistics analysis was performed on the data collected using SPSS version 20 and Pearson Chi-square test was used to determine the significant association between categorical variables which were grouped. Statistical significance was tested at 5% significance level. The students exhibited good knowledge and perception of telemedicine with a mean response of 4.947 ± 1.374 and 3.473±1.115; represented by 86.8% and 78.9% of the students respectively. 92.1% had heard of the term 'telemedicine' from the internet and social media platforms. The level of study of veterinary students had a significant effect (p<0.05) on their knowledge of telemedicine; knowledge increases with an increase in the year of study. Veterinary students showed good knowledge level and perception of telemedicine. However, exposure to the use of telemedicine system is low. Issues of patients' information privacy being threatened by the usage of telemedicine were indicated. Development, incorporation of telemedicine in the curriculum in formative years of veterinary students training is critical to ensure effective and efficient training of students in telemedicine in the COVID era.
Jeje SO, Ukwenya VO, Anita AB
… +1 more, Daramola OM
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987248
In this study, the effects of maternal exposure to Bonny Light Crude Oil (BLCO) on reproductive functions of the offspring was investigated in Wistar rats. Ten pregnant rats were divided into two groups (n=5). Group 1 se...In this study, the effects of maternal exposure to Bonny Light Crude Oil (BLCO) on reproductive functions of the offspring was investigated in Wistar rats. Ten pregnant rats were divided into two groups (n=5). Group 1 served as the control, it was administered 0.75ml/Kg bwt/day normal saline and Group 2 was administered 0.75ml/Kg bwt/day BLCO. Serum hormonal profile, sperm indices, estrous cycle length and pubertal timing were assessed as measures of reproductive function. Tissue Malondialdehyde, Catalase and SOD activities were assessed as indices of oxidative stress. Results obtained showed that BLCO significantly (p<0.05) reduced birth weight, anogenital distance (AGD) at birth, sperm count, motility and normal morphology, serum testosterone, testicular and epididymal SOD and catalase activities in the male offsprings. However, days of preputial separation, relative weight of testis and epididymis, testicular and epididymal MDA were significantly (p<0.05) raised by gestational exposure to BLCO. In the female offspring, birth weight, AGD at birth, relative weight of ovaries and uterus, SOD, catalase activities, serum LH were significantly reduced by BLCO exposure during gestation. Moreover, uterine and testicular MDA, serum estradiol and FSH were significantly increased by BLCO treatment during gestation. In conclusion, maternal exposure to BLCO during gestation may alter reproductive indices in the offspring and increased occurrence of oxidative stress in reproductive structures in male and female offspring of Wistar rats.
Adeneye AA, Olorundare OE, Omobowale TO
… +4 more, Akinsola AO, Kolo PM, Albrecht RMA, Crooks PA
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987247
This study evaluates the therapeutic potentials of selected antihypertensive drugs [valsartan, amlodipine, lisinopril and their fixed-dose combinations (amlodipine + lisinopril) and (valsartan + lisinopril)] in ameliorat...This study evaluates the therapeutic potentials of selected antihypertensive drugs [valsartan, amlodipine, lisinopril and their fixed-dose combinations (amlodipine + lisinopril) and (valsartan + lisinopril)] in ameliorating trastuzumab (TZM)‑induced cardiac dysfunctions in experimental rats. After an ethical clearance for the study was obtained, in-bred young adult female Wistar rats were randomly allotted into 10 groups of 6 rats per group. Group I rats were treated with 10 ml/kg/day sterile water p.o. and 1 ml/kg/day sterile water i.p.; Group II, III and IV rats were orally treated with 5 mg/kg/day VAL and 1 ml/kg/day sterile water i.p., 0.25 mg/kg/day ADP and 1 ml/kg/day sterile water i.p., 0.035 mg/kg/day LSP and 1 ml/kg/day sterile water i.p., respectively. Group V rats were orally pretreated with 10 ml/kg/day of sterile water before i.p. 2.25 mg/kg/day of TZM. Groups VI-VIII rats were equally pretreated with 5 mg/kg/day VAL, 0.25 mg/kg/day ADP, and 0.035 mg/kg/day LSP before i.p. 2.25 mg/kg/day TZM treatment, respectively. Also, Groups IX and X rats were orally pretreated with the fixed-dose combinations of 0.25 mg/kg/day ADP + 0.035 mg/kg/day LSP in dissolved in sterile water and 5 mg/kg/day VAL + 0.035 mg/kg/day LSP before 2.25 mg/kg/day TZM treatment for 7 days. Blood pressure parameters [systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP)] and electrocardiogram (ECG) of the treated rats were measured using non-invasive procedures on days 1 and 7 of the experiment, following which the treated rats were sacrificed humanely under light inhaled diethyl ether and histopathological examination was conducted on all treated rat hearts. Results show that repeated TZM treatment significantly (p<0.05) raised SBP, DBP and MAP values from 115.0 ± 17.1 mmHg, 85.1 ± 15.1 mmHg and 94.7 ± 15.5 mmHg, respectively on day 1 to 127.7 ± 27.8 mmHg, 87.4 ± 27.3 mmHg and 100.5 ± 26.4 mmHg, respectively, on day 7. Oral pretreatments with VAL, ADP, LSP and their fixed-dose combinations significantly (p<0.05) attenuated increases in the SBP, DBP and MAP values with the most significant attenuation mediated by the fixed-dose VAL + LSP combination at the SBP, DBP and MAP values of 103.8 ± 20.6 mmHg, 65.5 ± 18.8 mmHg, and 77.9 ± 18.7 mmHg, respectively. TZM treatment also profoundly (p<0.05) prolonged the QT and corrected QT intervals from 85.0 ± 11.5 ms and 161.6 ± 20.3 ms, respectively, on day 1 to 110.2 ± 21.5 ms and 226.5 ± 41.5 ms, respectively, on day 7. However, these QT and corrected QT interval prolongations were effectively and profoundly attenuated by oral pretreatments with VAL, ADP, LSP and their fixed-dose combinations. In addition, TZM cardiotoxicity was characterized by marked vascular and cardiomyocyte congestion and coronary artery microthrombi formation. However, these histopathological changes were reversed with oral pretreatments with ADP, LSP, VAL and fixed-dosed [(ADP + LSP) and (VAL + LSP)] combinations although fixed-dose VAL + LSP was associated with histopathological lesions of coronary arterial wall cartilaginous metaplasia. Overall, this study revealed the promising therapeutic potentials of VAL, ADP, LSP and their fixed-dose combinations as repurposed drugs for the prevention of TZM-mediated cardiac dysfunctions.
Danborno AM, Ogbe SO, Mallo MJ
… +4 more, Toryila JE, Shafe MMO, Ochayi MO, Danborno B
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987246
Pandemics have claimed an estimated 414 million lives from 165 AD to present, with COVID-19 pandemic killing close to 2 million people. The best counter for pandemics has been the use of vaccines, but before it is widely...Pandemics have claimed an estimated 414 million lives from 165 AD to present, with COVID-19 pandemic killing close to 2 million people. The best counter for pandemics has been the use of vaccines, but before it is widely available, the best strategy is to avoid being infected. COVID-19 pandemic was met by behaviours and attitudes ranging from unbelief to fear of dying and stigmatisation of those who have contracted the virus or recovered from the disease. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP), fear and stigma of the populace towards COVID-19 from state to state. This research was a cross-sectional study carried out from April to October 2020. Data was obtained through a structured questionnaire distributed to 650 individuals. Respondents who participated were 591 (males n= 335 and females n= 256) and aged 18-60 years (mean age 30.25 ± 10.45 years, range 18-60) drawn from five states in the north-central region of Nigeria. The results show that 98.3% of participants believe that COVID-19 disease exists. Still, not everyone wears face masks, avoid crowded places, practice social distancing or follow the WHO-hand-washing technique as measures to curb the spread of the disease. Only 60.5% of the participants believe that lockdown is an effective measure to reduce transmission risk. 55.6% will stigmatise those who just recovered from the disease, 75.3% are afraid to visit high-risk areas as part of the protective measures, but only about 12% believe that every infected person will die. More males (28.3%) than females (17.6%) believe that taking herbs can cure the disease (P<0.01). All government and nongovernmental organizations must develop more awareness programs to win the battle against COVID-19 disease as the second wave is emerging.
Govender N, Ramdin S, Naicker T
… +1 more, Reddy P
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987245
Pregnancy is thus characterized by an anti-inflammatory milieu in the second trimester despite a pro-inflammatory response in the first and third trimesters. Nonetheless a disproportionate inflammatory response is risky...Pregnancy is thus characterized by an anti-inflammatory milieu in the second trimester despite a pro-inflammatory response in the first and third trimesters. Nonetheless a disproportionate inflammatory response is risky in pregnancy. This retrospective study evaluated the mid-gestational expression of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in HIV infected pregnant women at their first antenatal visit. Archived serum samples were collected from seventy (n=70) black pregnant women, attending a primary health care centre in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The demographic and clinical profiles were procured from patient medical records and cytokine levels were measured in all samples. A statistical significance (p<0.05) was noted for IP-10 between the HIV positive and HIV negative groups for the inflammatory, anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines when stratified by HIV status. Likewise, IL-7 was statistically different when the HIV population was stratified based on ART usuage. Significant correlations were noted between IL-7 and birthweight (r=0.35, p<0.05); IFN-δ and maternal age (r=-0.27, p<0.05); TNF-α and gestational age (r=0.26, p<0.05); VEGF and systolic blood pressure (r=0.40, p<0.05); IL-4 and gestational age (r=-0.30, p<0.05). A positive correlation was noted for inflammatory IL-1b with anti-inflammatory IL-5, IL-5 and FGF basic; inflammatory IL-2 with anti-inflammatory IL-5, IL-10 as well as FGF basic. A negative correlation between the inflammatory IL-12 with anti-inflammatory IL-1ra and Il-4 as well as that between IL-17A with IL-10 was noted. This study reveals midgestational variation in serum inflammatory and anti-inflammatory immunologic profile of pregnant women, irrespective of the use of antiretroviral therapy. This disparity in the susceptible HIV infected women will affect progression of pregnancy and encourage fetal morbidity and mortality.
Ishola IO, Afolayan O, O Odutola I
… +2 more, Faniyan O, O Adeyemi O
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987244
Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies have several commonalities including neurochemical, morphological and clinical features as well as widespread of cortical and limbic α-synuclein and amyloid-β pathol...Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies have several commonalities including neurochemical, morphological and clinical features as well as widespread of cortical and limbic α-synuclein and amyloid-β pathologies. Thus, we evaluated the action of hesperidin on α-synuclein and amyloid-β-induced neurodegeneration in Drosophila melanogaster. The disease causing human Aβ peptide or α- synuclein was expressed respectively, in Elav-GAL4 (pan-neuronally) and dopaminergic neurons (ddc-GAL4) using the UAS-GAL4 system. Flies were either grown on food media supplemented with or without hesperidin (HSD) (1, 5, or 10mM). Behavioral assays were carried to investigate the effect of treatment on fecundity, larval motility, climbing ability and lifespan. Aβ>Elav or α-syn>DDC caused significant decrease in fecundity, larva contraction, motility, survival rate, and climbing activities in flies indicative of neurodegeneration. However, supplementation of flies' media with hesperidin (1mM, 5mM and 10mM) showed a dose-dependent increase in the number of line crosses in the egg laying, larva motility, climbing activity in comparison with flies grown on food media only. Conversely, supplementation of fly feed with HSD caused no significant change in lifespan. Findings from this experiment showed that hesperidin could be a potential neuroprotective agent in the amelioration of PD and AD pathogenesis.
Akhigbe R, Ajayi AF, Micheal LO
… +3 more, Grace AG, Omole AI, Adelusi TI
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987243
Thyroid hormones have been shown to promote the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), consumption of antioxidants, and induction of oxidative stress, which triggers the release of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and VE...Thyroid hormones have been shown to promote the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), consumption of antioxidants, and induction of oxidative stress, which triggers the release of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and VEGF-dependent angiogenesis. The present study investigated the effect of altered thyroid states, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism on hepatic and renal functions, oxidative stress biomarkers, and hepatorenal expressions of HSP70, HSP90, and VEGF. Male Wistar rats were randomized into vehicle-treated control, carbimazole-induced hypothyroidism, or levothyroxine-induced hyperthyroidism. Altered thyroid states caused impaired hepatic and renal functions accompanied by elevated malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione content and superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in the hepatic and renal tissues. These derangements were associated with down-regulation of hepatic and renal HSP70 and HSP90 and upregulation of hepatic and renal VEGF expression. Findings of histopathological examinations of the hepatic and renal tissues align with the biochemical derangements observed. This study reveals that dysthyroidism impairs hepatorenal function via induction of oxidative stress and modulation of HSP70/HSP90/VEGF signaling.
Tooth-wear signatures obtained from maxillary carnassial fourth premolar teeth of raccoons in three ecologic regions in Nigeria testified to segregations in diet of the species with more abrasive diet in specimens from c...Tooth-wear signatures obtained from maxillary carnassial fourth premolar teeth of raccoons in three ecologic regions in Nigeria testified to segregations in diet of the species with more abrasive diet in specimens from coastal south-western areas compared to more vegetal diet content of those from middle belt and northern areas. Endoloph assessments showed sexually dimorphic mesowear signals between and within locations suggestive that males are more exposed to dental wears compared to females; Male and female specimens from rainforest zone had 40.2% and 34.2% respectively, Sudan Savanna zone had 46.8% and 40.6% for females and males while 67.6% and 44.3% for Sahel zone specimens in similar order. We investigated dietary resource use for sustained survivability within limits of interspecific spatial overlaps using seasonal rainfall indices between two years. There was 86% per high dental occlusal surface relief in the specimens from the savannas while 32% per low relief was observed in South-Western badgers teeth samples. This study observed a change in habitat use as a predisposing factor to sub-regional dental wear differences among age groups as well as sexes of species from three geographic climatic areas. The richness of the eco-habitat/life expectancy found in the rain forest can be ascribed to diet availability which is reduced in the savanna areas. The study suggests minimal change in habitat use as a predisposing factor in sub-regional species dental relief differences observed among age groups and sexes of the species from three geographic climatic areas and also represents quality of the eco-habitats.
Agbon AN, Kwanashie HO, Hamman WO
… +8 more, Ibegbu AO, Henry R, Sule H, Yahaya MH, Shuaib YM, Usman IM, Ivang AE, Oladimeji OJ
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987241
Mercury is an environmental neurotoxicant that triggers structural and physiological alterations in different brain parts. The hippocampus is associated with learning and memory, and injury to this brain part may lead to...Mercury is an environmental neurotoxicant that triggers structural and physiological alterations in different brain parts. The hippocampus is associated with learning and memory, and injury to this brain part may lead to behavioural and cognitive changes. Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) has been demonstrated to possess a variety of medical benefits. This study comparatively assessed the neuroprotective property of aqueous and ethanol fruit pulp extracts of P. dactylifera in a rat model of mercury-triggered hippocampal changes using microscopic examinations. Twenty-eight Wistar rats were divided into seven groups (I-VII, n=4). Group I (control) was administered distilled water (2ml/kg); group II was administered mercuric chloride, HgCl2 (5mg/kg); group III was administered vitamin C (100mg/kg) as reference drug +HgCl2; groups IV and V were administered aqueous extract (250mg/kg and 500mg/kg, respectively) +HgCl2, while groups VI and VII were administered ethanol extract (250mg/kg and 500mg/kg, respectively) +HgCl2. Extracts' neuroprotective property were evaluated using histological and histometric assessments of CA1 and CA3 hippocampal sub-regions. Results revealed cytoarchitectural changes including karyopyknosis, basophilic necrosis and remarkably decreased histometric features of hippocampal pyramidal neurons in HgCl2-treated group relative to control. Administration of the extracts remarkably ameliorated mercury-induced degenerative changes by preservation of cytoarchitectural features comparable to reference drug. Comparatively, neuroprotective efficacies of the extracts are relatively similar, especially at doses of 500mg/kg and could be attributed to antioxidant activities of constituent phytochemicals. Results suggest that aqueous and ethanol fruit pulp extracts of P. dactylifera may prove efficacious in ameliorating mercury-triggered microscopic alterations in the hippocampus of Wistar rats.
Arinola GO, Alonge TO, Edem VF
… +3 more, Fowotade A, Fashina OA, Akinbola OI
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2021 Jun · PMID 34987240
COVID-19 caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) enters the host cells through attachment to the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 receptors (ACE-2) on the host cells. ACE-2 is known to affec...COVID-19 caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) enters the host cells through attachment to the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 receptors (ACE-2) on the host cells. ACE-2 is known to affect renal functions, vasoconstriction and fluid homeostasis. Thus, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on renal functional parameters is worth investigating. Plasma obtained from whole blood samples collected from newly diagnosed COVID-19 patients were analysed for albumin, urea, creatinine, Na, K, Cl and HCO3 using auto analysers. All newly diagnosed patients were immediately admitted for managed at the Infectious Disease Center, Olodo in Ibadan the capital of Oyo State, South Western Nigeria. The results obtained were evaluated to determine the frequency of derangements in the renal parameters of patients with the COVID-19 disease. It was observed that 57.1%, 37.8%, 32.7%, 28.1%, 18.7%, 17.8% and 3.4% of newly diagnosed COVID-19 patients had values of Cl, creatinine, albumin, Na, K, HCO3 and urea respectively outside the reference ranges. While 43.3%, 4.7%, 2.5%, 2.5%, 2.0%, 1.7% and 1.0% of COVID-19 patients had values of Cl, creatinine, Na, K, albumin, Urea and HCO3 respectively above the reference ranges. Of all admitted patients, 33.1%, 30.7%, 25.6%, 16.8%, 16.3%, 13.8% and 1.7% had creatinine, albumin, Na, HCO3, K, Cl and urea values respectively below reference ranges. The changes in renal function parameters of newly diagnosed COVID-19 patients portend that renal failure is imminent in poorly managed COVID-19 patients and this has immunopathology implications during SAR-COV-2 infection.
Peptic ulcer is a major health challenge with high morbidity and mortality all over the world. This study investigated the involvement of oxidative stress in the healing and protective potentials of aqueous leave extract...Peptic ulcer is a major health challenge with high morbidity and mortality all over the world. This study investigated the involvement of oxidative stress in the healing and protective potentials of aqueous leave extract of Telfairia occidentalis (TO) on indomethacin induced gastric ulcers in adult Sprague Dawley male rats. The rats were divided into 6 groups (A-F) of 5 rats each, with A as normal control, B received single oral administration of 40mg/kg indomethacin without treatment for 4 hours; C received 40mg/kg indomethacin without treatment for 4 hours and scarified after 72 hours; D received 100mg/kg aqueous leave extract of TO for 7 days without ulcer induction; E (pre-treated test group) received 40mg/kg indomethacin after being pre-treated with 100mg/kg aqueous leave extract of TO daily for 7 days. Group F (Posttreated test) received 40mg/kg of indomethacin and treated four hours later with 100mg/kg aqueous leave extract of TO daily for 7 days. The results revealed changes in gastric macroscopic architecture of the mucosa, and changes in ulcer indices and oxidative stress markers levels in group B-F. These changes comparatively suggested that the leave-extract of Telfairia occidentalis has gastro-protective with minimal healing potentials mediated through reduced oxidative stress.
Olopade JO, Anosike F, Lanipekun DO
… +3 more, Adebiyi OE, Ogunsuyi OM, Bakare AA
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2020 Dec · PMID 34009208
The straw-coloured fruit bats (Eidolon helvum) are the most widely distributed megachiropteran species in Africa. Studies have shown that they migrate, and are likely exposed to environmental pollutants across population...The straw-coloured fruit bats (Eidolon helvum) are the most widely distributed megachiropteran species in Africa. Studies have shown that they migrate, and are likely exposed to environmental pollutants across population. This study was designed to investigate genotoxicity via the bone marrow micronucleus assay and haematological alterations of Eidolon helvum in the tropics. Healthy straw-coloured fruit bats (Eidolon helvum; n=20) were captured from two geographical regions, Ogun and Gombe States in Nigeria and were grouped based on sex and age. Blood samples were collected for haematology and osmotic fragility, and bone marrow samples for genotoxicity studies. Results showed no significant differences in erythrocytes and leucocytes values across age and sex. The erythrocytes osmotic fragility was higher in juvenile than in adults at 0 and 0.1%NaCl, while it was higher in adult males than in adult females at 0 and 0.3% NaCl. The erythrocytes and leucocytes parameters in straw colored fruit bats were within the reference values seen in literature except the higher monocyte counts suggesting chronic inflammation. There were increased levels of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and normochromatic erythrocytes in the straw-coloured fruit bats indicating genotoxicity and cytotoxicity, respectively. The present study provided baseline research data on the haematology and micronucleus profile of the straw-coloured fruit bats in Nigeria. This is perhaps the first study on haematology and micronucleus assay of in straw-colored fruit bats in the tropics.
The interest in the role of vanadium compounds in living organisms has grown tremendously especially since the report of its glycemic normalization activity in the 1980s. There has been reports of both its toxic as well...The interest in the role of vanadium compounds in living organisms has grown tremendously especially since the report of its glycemic normalization activity in the 1980s. There has been reports of both its toxic as well as positive effects, thus there is a paucity of information on the essentiality of this element in biological systems. In this study, the effect of different doses of sodium metavanadate on the haematological and biochemical variables of male Wistar rats was investigated. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of five each and were given tap water containing various concentrations of sodium metavanadate (0ppm- group 1, 50ppm- group 2, 100ppm- group 3, or 200ppm- group 4) for 10weeks. Weekly body changes were noted and blood was collected at the end of 10 weeks by retro orbital puncture for haematological and serum biochemical variables. Histological sections were also performed on liver and kidney tissues. There was a significant increase in body weight in the 50ppm group compared with control. Sodium metavanadate at 200ppm caused a significant decrease in packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC) and Lymphocytes with significant increases in neutrophils and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio when compared with control values. There was also a significant decrease in ALP, ALT and a significant increase in urea concentration in the 200ppm group when compared with control values. All doses of sodium metavanadate significantly reduced blood glucose level. Sections of liver and kidney revealed severed damage at 200ppm compared with control. The results from this study showed that vanadium affects both haematological and biochemical parameters and could be toxic at higher concentrations, while at low concentration could be beneficial as seen with the enhanced body weight.
Many physiological factors such as ethnicity, sex and blood group have been proven to have roles to play in determining the bleeding and clotting time of an individual. Earlier studies had conflicting results about the b...Many physiological factors such as ethnicity, sex and blood group have been proven to have roles to play in determining the bleeding and clotting time of an individual. Earlier studies had conflicting results about the bleeding and clotting time in an individual concerning physiological factors. The objective of the study was to study the bleeding and clotting time of an individual with respect to their sex and blood group. This cross-sectional study involved 134 undergraduate students between the ages of 17-25years. Blood group was determined using a standard anti-sera, clotting time was determined using the capillary method while the bleeding time was determined using Duke's filter paper method. In this study, blood group B was predominate. The bleeding time and clotting time were significantly longer in females compared to that of males. The clotting time was longer in individuals with blood group O but the bleeding time among the blood groups was not significantly different. However, the subject size needs to be increased in further studies.
Oyebanji VO, Jarikre T, Jagun AT
… +2 more, Adeniran GA, Emikpe BO
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2020 Dec · PMID 34009205
Our previous ex-vivo and in vivo investigations have established immunopotentiating property of Khaya senegalensis and Cedrela odorata gums; however the safety of the use of this gum combination in chicken has not been d...Our previous ex-vivo and in vivo investigations have established immunopotentiating property of Khaya senegalensis and Cedrela odorata gums; however the safety of the use of this gum combination in chicken has not been described. Hence this study evaluates the haematological profile of chickens vaccinated with Newcastle disease vaccine delivered through the oral and ocular routes using gums from Cedrela odorata and Khaya senegalensis as delivery agents. 252 one-day old chickens were grouped gum-vaccine oral (GVOR), vaccine oral (VOR), gum-vaccine ocular (GVOC), vaccine ocular (VOC), gum oral (GOR), gum ocular (GOC), no-gum-no-vaccine but challenged (NGNV/C), no-gum-no-vaccine unchallenged (NGNV/U). They were vaccinated on days 21 and 42 and challenged day 84. Blood samples were collected before first vaccination and at selected intervals afterwards. Analysis was done using one way ANOVA with P<0.05 considered significant. Packed cell volume, total white cell count, heterocyte-lymphocyte ratios and platelet count varied insignificantly (P>0.05) throughout the period of observation across groups with no observable derangements. Hence, the absence of derangement in haematological indices from this study suggests that the dilution rate recommended from the ex-vivo study is safe for administration of Newcastle disease vaccine in chickens irrespective of the routes of delivery.
Iyare C, Iyare E, Nwachukwu D
… +1 more, Anyaehie B
Niger J Physiol Sci
· 2020 Dec · PMID 34009204
One of the substances used in force ripening fruits is commercial grade calcium carbide (CaC2) which contains impurities such as arsine and this has been associated with low birth weight and fetal loss. There is thus a n...One of the substances used in force ripening fruits is commercial grade calcium carbide (CaC2) which contains impurities such as arsine and this has been associated with low birth weight and fetal loss. There is thus a need to further investigate additional risks on offspring. This study was thus designed to evaluate the possible effects of maternal consumption of banana pulp force ripened with CaC2 on the offspring. Sixteen pregnant rats were randomly divided into two test groups and controls of four rats each. Two test groups were fed with pelletized feed mixed with banana pulp ripened by commercial grade CaC2 at concentrations of 50g/5kg and 100g/5kg while the controls had a group fed with pelletized feed mixed with normal ripened banana and another had only pelletized feed. This feeding pattern was done morning and evening ad libitum throughout the gestation period of twenty-one days after which only pelletized feed and water was administered. At delivery, all male offspring were separated and each dam was allowed eight female pups to nurse. Upon weaning after twenty-one days, the mothers were removed leaving eight female offspring in each group. Development of their reproductive system was monitored and recorded using parameters such as vaginal opening day (VOD) and reproductive hormonal assay at the sixth week. A fertility test was also carried out by introducing viable male rats for mating at sixth week postpartum. Trace amount of arsenic was found in the banana pulp of 100g/5kg CaC2 group (0.35ppb). CaC2 exposure was related to delayed onset in puberty, decreased serum FSH and a decreased fertility rate in the 100g/5kg CaC2 group (p<0.05). Consumption of contaminated CaC2 ripened fruits exposes humans to arsenic acid which has harmful effects on reproductive development of offspring.