Archives of Basic and Applied Medicine is the official scientific publication of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan. Ibadan, Nigeria. The Journal is published both in print and also online three times a year (February, June and October) and accepts manuscripts in major sections of biomedical research as follows: 1. Infectious diseases, Immunology and Chemotherapy 2. Nutrition, Natural product, Drug discovery and development 3. Pathology, Systems and computational biology, Artificial intelligence 4. Oncology and Toxicology 5. Clinical and Translational Research, Epidemiology
Faculty of Basic Medical Scienecs, University of Ibadan. Ibadan, Nigeria
Multiple Skull Anomalies in a Nigerian Adult Male: Case Report
The skull, the most complicated bony structure in the body, is made up of twenty-two bony pieces that are approximated at the sutures. Establishment of accessory ossification centers in the sutures result in the formation of Inca and Wormian bones. This is a case report detailing the occurrence of an unusual bone (inca bone) in posterior skull with asymmetry in size and shape of the oval and carotid foramina at the base of the skull. Following bone maceration of dissected cadavers in the Department of Anatomy, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, we observed multiple anomalies in an adult male Nigerian skull. The skull presented with an Inca bone, complete ostosis of sagittal & lambdoidal sutures, right infraorbital fissure, left infraorbital foramen with adjoining canal, bilateral supraorbital notches, large non-symmetrical right foramen ovale and carotid foramen, thickened left superior temporal line and straightening of the mid 1/3rd of the coronal suture. Awareness of the existence of Inca bones, complete ostosis of sagittal and lambdoidal sutures and thickened superior temporal lines by radiologists is important in order to avoid misdiagnosing them for fractures. The occurrence of inca bones, completely fused sutures and thickened cranial bone markings pose problems to surgical access to the cranial cavity during neurosurgical procedures. However, they can be useful tools in anthropometric and forensic identification of human beings
β-Caryophyllene Improves Sperm Quality and Protects Testicular Histology in Rats Exposed to 1,2-Dimethyl Hydrazine Via Reduction of Oxidative Stress
Male infertility is a growing problem worldwide. There are many risk factors, including cancers and cancer-causing agents. The 1,2-Dimethylhydrazine (DMH) is a cancer-causing agent that harms the reproductive system. This study examines the impact of β-caryophyllene (BCP), a molecule possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics in counteracting DMH-induced sperm quality alteration and testicular oxidative injury in a rat model. Thirty (30) Sprague Dawley rats were allocated into six (6) equal groups. They were administered distilled water, 20 mg/kg DMH, 5 mg/kg BCP, 10 mg/kg BCP, 5 mg/kg BCP + DMH, and 10 mg/kg BCP + DMH. The BCP was administered orally, while DMH was injected intraperitoneally throughout the 20 weeks of treatment. After treatment, sperm motility, viability, count, and total aberration were evaluated in test and control rats. The absolute and relative testis weights as well as testicular malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were determined. Histopathological evaluation of the testis was also carried out. Administration of DMH led to alteration of sperm quality parameters and oxidative stress as evidenced by elevation of MDA coupled with decline SOD activity and GSH level. Testicular germ cell depletion and atrophy was also seen in the DMH group. However, BCP restored the sperm quality parameters as well as MDA, SOD and GSH towards control values. Additionally, the testicular lesions were prevented by BCP. The data suggests that BCP mitigated DMH-induced sperm quality alteration and protected against testicular damage by suppressing oxidative stress.
Carcinogenesis/Oncology/Chemoprevention/Toxicology/Biomarkers and Oxidative S
Copper Toxicity and Antioxidant Effect of Chlorogenic Acid in Drosophila melanogaster
Copper is a vital trace element in biological systems. However, toxic levels can precipitate neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease which occurs with advancement in age. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a phytonutrient widely distributed in the diet. This study serves as a preliminary investigation to studying the preventive or ameliorative role of CGA in the light of Alzheimer’s disease with copper toxicity being the model in Drosophila melanogaster. melanogaster (Oregon strain) were allotted into four (4) groups of five vials with 50 flies each and exposed to copper sulphate 0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 mM, respectively) for 7 days for survival assay, biochemical indices (H2O2, non-protein thiols, total thiol and nitric oxide (NO), and behavioural activities (negative geotaxis and eclosion rate). For the study with CGA, the flies were allotted to six (6) groups of five vials with 50 flies each and treated as follows: 0- control (distilled water), 2% ethanol (vehicle), 15, 30, 45, and 60 mg/kg diet of CGA, respectively for 28 days for the longevity assay. Biochemical (H2O2, non-protein thiols, total thiol and nitric oxide (NO) and behavioural (negative geotaxis and eclosion rate) assays were performed in flies treated with CGA for 7 days using similar groups comprising of 2% ethanol (control), and CGA at 15, 30, and 45 mg/kg diet. Copper reduced the survival of the flies, especially at 1mM, and the non-protein thiol and total thiol levels were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced while negative geotaxis and eclosion rate were unaffected. At 15, 30, and 45 mg/kg diet of CGA, the longevity of the flies was improved. The concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide were significantly (p < 0.05) douced in a dose-dependent manner, and levels of total thiol and non-protein thiols increased in a dose-dependent fashion with it being significant at 45 mg/kg diet of CGA. CGA did not affect the negative geotaxis and the eclosion rate of the flies. Copper demonstrated toxicity at the concentrations tested, and chlorogenic acid gives the presentation that it is a potential antioxidant agent.
In vitro Antioxidant, Total Phenolic Content and Cytotoxicity study of Selected Herbal Medicinal Products in Ilorin Metropolis
There are no doubts herbal medicines are endowed with bioactive constituents considered to have many therapeutic effects. The usage of herbal medicines increased sporadically as a result of the belief that herbal medicines have a higher safety margin than conventional medicines. In other to improve acceptance of herbal remedies in the treatment of diseases, the study aimed to assess the antioxidant capability, total phenolic content and cytotoxicity of five (5) herbal medicinal products that were sourced from the city of Ilorin. The products were labelled A, B, C, D and E in this study. The Folin-Ciocalteu method was used to determine the total phenolic content, Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay (BSLA) was used to determine the toxicity of the medicinal products, and the 1, 1-diphenyl, 2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay was applied to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the selected herbal medicinal products. Products C, D and E had higher DPPH radical scavenging activities (IC50 = 54.51± 0.22, 42.30± 0.11 and 39.17± 0.24 μg/mL respectively), which was lower in products A and B (129.53± 0.21 and 180.06± 0.34 μg/mL) compared with Ascorbic acid (7.32± 0.12 μg/mL). Total phenolic content was high in products D and E (315.86±0.22 and 205.13±0.31 mg GAE/g extract. Brine shrimp lethality assay (BSLA) revealed products A, C, D, E were found to be non-toxic to Artemia salina larvae, with LC50 > 1000 μg/mL, except extract of product B which was perceived to be moderately toxic with LC50 = 418.80 ± 0.24 μg/mL. The selected herbal medicinal products possessed reasonable safety, antioxidant capacity and phenolic content.
Nutrition/Natural Product and Drug Development
Biofilm inhibitory activity of selected medicinal plants against enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli ATCC 35401 strain
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), a pathotype of E. coli, accounts for a significant episode of diarrhea among under five years children. In infectious diarrhea, biofilms contribute to treatment failures. Using crystal violet-based biofilm inhibition assay, we investigated chloroform and acetone extracts of nine selected medicinal plants for biofilm inhibitory activity against ETEC. Extracts that inhibit biofilm without affecting planktonic bacterial growth were further profiled by phytochemical screening and infrared spectroscopic analysis. Of the eighteen extracts investigated, only two chloroform extracts, namely; Psidium guajava and Nauclea latifolia, gave reproducible biofilm inhibitory activity of 44% and 30%, respectively, against ETEC while inhibiting growth by less than 10%. The two extracts, found to be rich in phytochemicals, showed relatively good antibiofilm activity against ETEC. Psidium guajava and Nauclea latifolia could be sources of lead compounds for development of drugs to control infectious diarrhea caused by ETEC with less selection pressure on the pathogen.
Modulatory Role of Resveratrol on Body Weight and Some Liver Enzymes in a Diabetic Nephropathy Rat Model
Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most feared complications of diabetes. An important aspect in the management of diabetic nephropathy is the maintenance of optimal weight, which is difficult with conventional anti-diabetic drugs. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound, has been used to prevent/treat several chronic diseases including type-2 diabetes due to its strong antioxidant and other properties. This study aimed to investigate the effect of resveratrol on weight gain and some liver enzymes in hyperglycemia-induced diabetic nephropathy in male Wistar rats. Twenty-five adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups of 5 rats each: normal control, normoglycemic, diabetic untreated, diabetic treated with resveratrol and diabetic treated with lisinopril. Diabetes was induced by feeding the rats high-fat diet and 20% fructose solution as drinking water for 6 weeks followed by a single intraperitoneal streptozotocin injection (35 mg/kg). The resveratrol and lisinopril treatment lasted for 5 weeks after which the rats were humanely sacrificed. The mean body weight of the group treated with resveratrol was increased from the 8th week (180.25 ± 7.73g), when compared to the diabetic control (164.50 ± 2.02g) but markedly decreased compared to the normal control (225.25 ± 11.24g) and these findings were consistent up to the 12th week. There was a significant reduction in alanine transferase level in the group treated with resveratrol compared to the diabetic control group (24.00 ± 0.58 and 38.25± 3.07 IU/L respectively). In conclusion, Resveratrol played a modulatory role on body weight and ameliorated derangement in alanine transferase levels in diabetic nephropathy in Wistar rats.
Endocrinology/Cell Biology/ Biomembrane/Cell Metabolism and Neurosciences
Spondias mombin fruit juice attenuated anxio-depressive-like behaviours, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in repeated social defeat stressed mice
Psychosocial stressors such as global insecurity, violence, and joblessness increase the risk of anxiety and depression. Diets rich in fruits with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds may protect the brain against psychosocial stress. In this study, the ameliorative potential of Spondias Mombin Fruit Juice (SMFJ) on repeated social defeat stress (RSD)-induced anxio-depressive-like behaviours and biochemical perturbations in mice was evaluated. Male Swiss mice weighing (20-24g) were divided into five groups (n=6). Group 1 (Control), Group 2 (SMFJ 100%), Group 3 (RSD only), Group 4 (SMFJ 50%+RSD), and Group 5 (SMFJ 100%+RSD). Distilled water or SMFJ was administered orally for 28 days. Beginning from day 8, mice in groups 3-5 were exposed to RSD for 5 min each of physical and psychosocial aggressive confrontations in a resident-intruder paradigm. Anxiodepressive-like behaviours were assessed 24 h after last RSD exposure. Corticosterone, oxidative stress markers, acetylcholinesterase, TNF-α and IL-6 levels were determined in serum or brain tissues. The SMFJ (50% and 100%) significantly reduced anxiety- and depression-like behaviors post-RSD (P < 0.05), with a corresponding decrease in serum corticosterone levels. Oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde, nitrite) were reduced, while antioxidant (reduced glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase) levels improved. Brain acetylcholinesterase activity, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels significantly decreased (P < 0.05), indicating anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Together, these findings suggest that Spondias mombin fruit juice ameliorates and prevents stress-induced behavioural and biochemical disruptions, likely via its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.
Pharmacogenetics and Precision Medicine in Resource-Constrained Settings: Challenges and Prospects
The deployment of emerging technologies and cutting-edge research has been a challenge in resource-constrained environments such as Africa due to several interlinked factors. The field of genomics has redefined biomedical advances since the completion of the first human genome project, showing the huge roles that inter-individual variations play in disease processes and their implication in clinical pharmacology. Until 2019, only about 2% of Genome Wide Association Studies represented Africa. With an estimated population close to one-fifth of the world as generated by the United Nations World Population Prospects in 2022, the underrepresentation of African ancestry in genomic research is concerning. Hence, it is paramount to put a spotlight on pharmacogenetics and precision medicine in Africa, given the genomic diversity that has been discovered so far, and the clinical advantages of tailored pharmacotherapy, even in the presence of traditional medical approaches. In this review, we highlighted the prospect of expanding precision medicine in Africa and the unique challenges that can lead to constrains in a resource-limited environment.
Toxicity Effects of Ganoderma lucidum ethanol extract on Cognition and Anxiogenic-like behavior is dose-dependent in Swiss mice
Ganoderma lucidum as one of the folk medicinal mushrooms has been used for the prevention and treatment of diverse disorders including neurasthenia, dizziness, anorexia, hypertension, deficiency fatigue, and arthritis, but its CNS-related safety is scanty and undefined. This research was designed to evaluate the toxicity effects of Ganoderma lucidum ethanol extract (EEGL) on cognitive and anxiogenic-like behaviours in Swiss mice. Forty Swiss mice (n = 5/group) of both sexes were treated orally with distilled water (10 mL/kg; vehicle), and graded doses of EEGL (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, respectively) for 30 days, during which neurobehavioral data from Morris water maze, light/dark box, and open field test were obtained. Thereafter, neurochemical and histological assessments were evaluated. The EEGL-treated groups showed a significant reduction in spatial cognitive performance in males without remarkable difference in females except at high dose (400 mg/kg). A high dose of EEGL induced anxiety-like behaviours by significantly increasing time spent in the dark compartment and decreasing the number of transitions in the light/dark box, as well as increasing time spent in the outer zone of the open field apparatus. Furthermore, EEGL at higher doses (≥ 200 mg/kg) disrupted neurochemicals significantly by decreasing glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities while remarkably increasing malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, acetylcholinesterase, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6 levels. Consequently, exposure to a high dose of EEGL resulted in mild hippocampal alterations in males, while the prefrontal cortex appeared normal. Taken together, EEGL shows potential neurotoxic effects at doses greater than 100 mg/kg for 30 days, while lesser doses might be beneficial.
Biflavonoid-rich extract of Garcinia kola seed and ascorbic acid are protective against lead-induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster
Exposure to toxic metals such as lead causes oxidative damage affecting human health. Sources of exposure could be contaminated water, leaded gasoline, etc. Using Drosophila melanogaster, we examined the individual and combined effects of ethyl acetate seed extract (EASE) from Garcinia kola and ascorbic acid (AsA) in ameliorating lead acetate-induced oxidative damage. Garcinia kola (seeds) was identified and processed to obtain ethyl acetate seed extract (EASE). For the survival study, one to three-day-old flies were exposed to different concentrations of EASE and AsA for 14 days. 150 mg/kg EASE and AsA were selected, while 250 µM of lead acetate (Pb) was used. For the main study, flies were grouped into eight with 50 flies per vial for 5 vials each per group and were treated for 7 days. The flies were thereafter anesthetized and processed to obtain supernatant solutions used to determine oxidative stress, neurological and inflammatory biomarkers. The EASE, AsA, and their combination significantly restored lead-induced oxidative stress, and altered neurological and inflammatory biomarkers. This study suggests the therapeutic potential of the combination of EASE and AsA against lead-acetate-induced toxicity, as there was a reversal of elevated oxidative stress, neurological and inflammatory perturbations.
Ameliorative Activities by Ellagic acid on Gut dysbiosis during starvation induced gastric ulceration in Rats: The role of Enterococcus feacium
Starvations result to formation of gastric ulcer, and microbiome dysbiosis. During starvation, there is increased release of iron stores, which can either be beneficial for growth of some gut flora or impedance to activities of some polyphenols. Polyphenols and gut microflora homeostasis are pivotal during healing of gastric ulcers. Ellagic acid (EA); a plant-derived poly-phenol, has proven to be gastro-protective, but there is dearth of information on its activities on commensal Enterococcus faecium during starvation induced gastric ulcer and hence the aim of this study. Thirty rats were grouped into 6 as control, untreated or treated with cimetidine (50mg/kg), 75mg/kg, 50mg/kg or 25mg/kg EA for 4 weeks. Gastric ulcer was induced by depriving the animals of food for the last 6 days in groups 2 to 6. Ulcer index was determined and gastric biochemicals were estimated from stomach homogenate, while microorganisms were assessed in gastric sample as well as tissue histological studies. The data were analysed using ANOVA with Turkey's posthoc significance test at p ≤ 0.05 significance. Ellagic acid treatments significantly decreased mean ulcer index, lipid peroxidation, hydrogen peroxide levels and H+/K+-ATPase activity compared with starved-untreated. Gastric mucin, sulfhydryl, and catalase activities were significantly increased in low- and medium-EA treated groups compared with starved-untreated. Gastric carbonyl level significantly decreased only in low-EA group compared with starved-untreated. Nitric oxide levels significantly increased in medium- and high-EA treated groups. Gut derived commensal microflora Enterococcus faecium; and probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus delbrueckii and Pedicoccus acidilactici were up-regulated in all EA treatment groups. In conclusion, EA attenuated starvation induced gastric ulceration via increased anti-oxidative mechanisms, nitric-oxide and reduced gastric H+/K+-ATPase activities, which enabled proliferation of gut-commensal microflora; Enterococcus faecium
Anti-Measles Potential of Selected Compounds from Uvaria chamae P. Beauv: A Molecular Docking Approach
Measles is an extremely contagious viral infection, reported to be responsible for most global childhood death. Plants have been proven to be very effective against viral diseases with an added advantage of less toxicity. Previous studies have reported the activities of Uvaria chamae extracts against measles virus. This study investigated bioactive compounds in silico anti-measles activities from Uvaria chamae leaves extract. The in silico docking studies were carried out using four compounds isolated from U. chamae (stigmasterol, chrysin, chalcone, and dihydrochalcone) reported in literature. The pharmacokinetic properties of these selected compounds were also evaluated using ADMET studies. The compounds were docked to the measles virus nucleoprotein (PDB ID: 5E4V) and they had binding affinities ranging from -6.4 to -8.2 kcal/mol. Stigmasterol (-8.2 kcal/mol) and Chrysin (-8.0 kcal/mol) showed the greatest affinities for the protein target. These two compounds passed the Lipinski’s Rule of Five for leadlikeness. Stigmasterol and Chrysin showed promising pharmacological properties that indicate that they could be investigated as viable lead candidates for further anti-measles drug development studies
Lipid Lowering Efficacy between Morning and Evening Rosuvastatin Treatment and the In-silico Mechanistic Insight
Rosuvastatin, a potent inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, disrupts cholesterol production. With a plasma half-life of 19 hours, it surpasses atorvastatin (15 hours) and simvastatin (2-3 hours). There are limited information on whether morning or evening administration affects its efficacy. This study compares the lipid-lowering effects of morning and evening rosuvastatin to simvastatin, the statin with the shortest half-life. Rats acclimated for two weeks were fed conventional rat chow. Blood samples were collected from tail veins to assess serum lipid profiles. Randox kits measured total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. In rats on a high-fat diet, LDL levels were significantly lower in the evening rosuvastatin group compared to the morning group at the 4th week (19.871±2.31 mmol/l vs. 24.2±1.40 mmol/l, p = 0.00199). Similarly, mean cholesterol was significantly lower in the evening group at the 4th week (28.271±1.4874 mmol/l vs. 31.2±1.5113 mmol/l, p = 0.00514). In silico docking revealed six rosuvastatin binding orientations within the HMG-CoA reductase site, with favorable interactions at binding mode 1. Hydrogen bonding with ASN-658, halogen interaction, and electrostatic interactions with ASP-767 were observed. However, unlike simvastatin studies, no significant differences in lipid levels were found between morning and evening rosuvastatin administration in hyperlipidemic rats at the 12th week. This suggests potential phenotypic variations in rosuvastatin response due to its extended half-life. Hydrogen bonding, particularly with ASN-658, emerges as critical in rosuvastatin-HMG-CoA reductase interaction.
Comparative Analysis of Plasma Lipids and Apolipoproteins in Children with Down Syndrome and Implications for Cardiovascular Risk
Children with Down syndrome (DS) often exhibit dyslipidaemia, contributing to increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. This study aimed to compare plasma lipid profiles and apolipoprotein levels between children with DS and non-DS controls to understand their cardiovascular implications. A case-control study was conducted with 69 children (31 with DS, 38 without DS), aged 1-15 years, at the Paediatric Endocrinology Unit of University College Hospital, Ibadan. We used enzymatic spectrophotometry to measure lipid parameters such as total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and ELISA to measure apolipoproteins (ApoA1 and ApoB). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, with significance set at p <0.05. Children with DS exhibited significantly higher triglyceride levels (183 mg/dL vs. 171 mg/dL, p = 0.028) and HDL-C levels (42.3 mg/dL vs. 31 mg/dL, p <0.001) compared to controls. LDL-C levels were significantly lower in DS children (76.6 mg/dL vs. 93.7 mg/dL, p = 0.036). No significant differences were found in total cholesterol, ApoA1, ApoB, or the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio between the groups. Children with Down syndrome (DS) have unique lipid profiles, with elevated triglycerides and HDL-C but lower LDL-C, potentially impacting long-term cardiovascular risk. Regular monitoring of lipid profiles, particularly triglycerides, in children with DS should be part of standard clinical care.
Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides Lam. Chewing Stick Elicits Salivation in Male Wistar Rats Via a Muscarinic-Dependent Pathway
A recent study has documented empirical evidence that Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides (Lam.) Watermann root stimulates salivation in healthy adult humans. The mechanism underlining the Z. zanthoxyloides-stimulated salivation was however not known. This study was therefore designed to determine the role of adrenergic, muscarinic and calcium channels on Z. zanthoxyloides-induced salivation in male Wistar rats. Twenty male Wistar rats (120-130 g) were randomly grouped into four (n=5) as: Z. zanthoxyloides (Z), Z. zanthoxyloides+Atropine (ZA), Z. zanthoxyloides+Prazosin (ZP) and Z. zanthoxyloides+Nifedipine (ZN). Cotton swab soaked in juiced Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides root was rubbed into the oral cavity of anaesthetized rats in Z to stimulate saliva. Rats in ZA, ZP and ZN were pretreated with atropine (2 mg/kg), prazosin (2 mg/kg) and nifedipine (20 mg/kg), respectively, before introduction of Z. zanthoxyloides. Saliva volume, flow rate, amylase activity and total protein were determined using standard methods. All experiments were conducted in triplicates. Z. zanthoxyloides significantly increased production of saliva (0.49±0.036ml) when compared with the unstimulated animals that produced no visible saliva throughout the observation period. Treatment with atropine in ZA (0.095±0.002ml) significantly decreased saliva production when compared with Z. There was however no significant difference in the saliva volume of ZP (0.35±0.032 ml) and ZN (0.445±0.75ml) when compared with Z. Salivary flow rate increased in similar pattern with saliva volume in all the groups. Salivary amylase activity and total protein were significantly reduced in ZA compared with Z while they were not different in the ZN and ZP groups. Z. zanthoxyloides increases salivation through a mechanism that may involve the muscarinic pathway.
Dermatoglyphic Studies of Fulani and Yoruba Ethnic Groups with Third Generational History in Kwara and Oyo States, Nigeria
Dermatoglyphic traits are genetically determined and remain constant until decomposition after death. This study aimed to use dermatoglyphics as a means for ethnic differentiation. The volunteers were Fulani (male 32 and female 28) and Yoruba (male 27 and female 33) from Kwara state and University of Ibadan community respectively. Fingerprints were obtained with Dermalog LF10 fingerprint scanner Hamburg, Germany. Stata was used for T-test and ANOVA. Ulnar loop was predominant in dermatoglyphs of the two ethnic groups (Fulani 38.20%, Yoruba 38.90%). Whorl (Fulani 24.50%, Yoruba 23.50%), Radial loop (Fulani 25.40%, Yoruba 22.60%) and Arch (Fulani 11.90%, Yoruba 15%) were distributed in that order. The gender distribution of patterns in this study were: Arch (male 11.08%, female 16.30%), radial loop (male 24.72%, female 23.5%), ulnar loop (male 39.90%, female 37.50%), whorl (male 24.3%, female 22.7%). Whorl is significantly distributed in both sexes of the two-ethnic group (P<0.005). Bifurcation distribution was predominant in both tribes and opposed bifurcation is the least minutiae type in both ethnic groups. Most minutiae revealed significant difference between Fulani and Yoruba except short ridges, dot, ridge ending, and spur. Arch differentiates Fulani and Yoruba, whorl showed sexual dimorphism. Level two details could be a possible marker of ethnic differentiation between Fulani and Yoruba of Nigeria.
Plasma Levels of Nitric Oxide and Indices of Oxidative Stress in Patients with Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer
Breast cancer (BCa) and prostate cancer (PCa) are cancers of different organs which share similarities as their development requires gonadal steroids and both are hormone-dependent. Reports have shown that oxidative stress (OS) and alteration in nitric oxide (NO) levels are associated with both BCa and PCa. Due to the dearth of information, plasma levels of NO and OS indices were determined in BCa and PCa patients with a view to identifying the group that is more affected by OS and altered NO levels and thus, could possibly benefit from intensive multi-antioxidant supplementation and/or therapy with NO. Plasma levels of NO, total plasma peroxide (TPP) and total antioxidant potential (TAP) were determined spectrophotometrically, in 88 adults comprising 30 patients with breast cancer, 28 patients with prostate cancer and 30 controls. Thereafter, the degree of OS was determined by calculating the oxidative stress index (OSI). The plasma TPP level and OSI were significantly lower in patients with breast cancer and in patients with prostate cancer compared with the controls. In BCa patients, the plasma TPP level and OSI were significantly higher while the plasma NO level was insignificantly lower compared with patients with PCa. In conclusion, oxidative stress in patients with breast cancer appears to be more severe than in patients with prostate cancer. Therefore, determination of the oxidative stress status of cancer patients may be of clinical importance before the utilization of nitric oxide-based therapies
Cymbopogon citratus extracts inhibit inflammation and oxidative damage in mice colon by downregulating IL-6, HSP 70 and upregulating APC protein
This study assessed the effect of solvent fractions of Cymbopogon citratus antioxidant status and anti-inflammatory activity in 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colon toxicity in male Swiss mice. The level of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined following intraperitoneal administration of DMH for twelve weeks and its co-administration with crude ethanol extract of C. citratus (CRD) and its fractions - chloroform (CHLF), ethyl acetate (ETLF) and ethanol (ETHF) fractions. Histology of mice colons and immunohistochemistry of inflammatory markers- Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP 70) were determined. HS-SPME-GCMS was used to assess the potent compounds present in the most effective fraction. Extracts of C. citratus particularly the CHLF containing d-limonene, geraniol and geranic acid increased the antioxidant status of the colon of DMH administered mice, restored colonic histoarchitecture, and modulated the expression of inflammatory markers (APC, IL-6 and HSP 70).
Gastroprotective Activities of Canarium schweinfurthii Fruit and Oil Diets: Role of H+/K+ ATPase Activity
Canarium schweinfurthii fruit and fruit-pulp oil is used in folk medicine for the treatment of peptic ulcer although there is limited scientific information this activity. This study aims to investigate the gastro-protective potential and mechanism of the fruit and fruit-pulp oil of C. schweinfurthii in indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer. One hundred and forty (140) Wistar rats (120-150g; n=20) were divided into seven groups namely: Groups 1, 2 and 3 were control, untreated, and cimetidine treated (30 mg/kg b.w) while groups 4 and 5 received in their feed 30% and 60% of C. schweinfurthii fruit while groups 6 and 7 received 1mL/kg and 2mL/kg of C. schweinfurthii oil. They were pre-treated for 14 or 28 days prior to ulcer induction using 40 mg/kg indomethacin for 4 hours. Basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion, ulcer scores and stomach biochemical variables were estimated and processed for histological evaluation by days 14 and 28 of gastric ulceration. Canarium schweinfurthii fruit and fruit pulp oil significantly decreased gastric ulceration, histamine stimulated gastric acid secretions and lipid peroxidation compared with untreated group. Pre-treatment with high doses of C. schweinfurthii fruit and fruit pulp oil significantly increased gastric mucin, mucous cell count and nitric oxide levels as well as catalase activity compared to untreated group. There were no visible lesions in the C. schweinfurthii diet fed groups. Canarium schweinfurthii fruit and fruit pulp oil inhibit histamine induced gastric acid secretion, H+K+ATPase pump activities, increase antioxidant enzymes, nitric oxide level, gastric mucin and mucous cell counts.
Fermented Cabbage Mitigates Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha and Pancreatic Tissue Oxidative Stress in Streptozotocin-Nicotinamide Induced Type 2 Diabetic Wistar Rats
Diabetes mellitus is predicted to affect 552 million people by 2030, up from 366 million in 2011. This research examined the efficacy of fermented cabbage (FC) on pancreatic oxidative stress and tumour necrosis factor-α. After type 2 diabetes induction, rats with blood glucose levels ≥ 150 mg/dL were grouped into six sets of five at random. Group 1 received 1 mL/kg of distilled water as the normal control. Group 2 received 1 mL/kg of distilled water in addition to serving as the negative control group (the diabetic untreated group). As the positive control, group 3 received metformin (500 mg/kg). Fermented cabbage was administered to groups 4, 5, and 6 at 12.5%, 25%, and 50%, respectively. In comparison to the diabetic untreated group, treatment with FC significantly (p< 0.05) reduced lipid peroxidation. When compared to the diabetic untreated group, all of the FC-treated groups showed a significant (p< 0.05) increase in pancreatic tissue superoxide dismutase and catalase. In addition, in comparison to the diabetic untreated group, treatment with FC significantly (p< 0.05) enhanced the reduced glutathione level. In the diabetic, untreated group, compared to the normal control, TNF-α levels were considerably higher. However, when compared to the diabetic untreated group, there was a significant decrease (p< 0.05) in all FC-treated groups. Thus, fermented cabbage decreases oxidative stress markers and TNF-α with improved glycaemic control. Fermented cabbage was shown to cause a steady decrease (P < 0.05) in blood glucose levels in a dose dependent manner.
Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Patients with Gastrointestinal symptoms using Urea Breath Test in Ilorin, North-central Nigeria
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has been linked with some gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms particularly dyspepsia. Urea breath test (UBT) is a simple non-invasive tool for the detection of this infection in humans. We, therefore, studied the prevalence of H. pylori infection among patients who were referred for UBT on account of GI symptoms in a tertiary health center in Nigeria. This was a retrospective study in which the biodata, indications and test results of patients who had UBT done over a period of 7 years (2012-2019) were retrieved from a dedicated register. The data was entered into a spreadsheet, cleaned and analyzed using the statistical software for social sciences (SPSS) version 22. Results were presented using frequency tables and charts. Associations between categorical variables were determined using the chi-square test and the level of significance set at p<0.05. Of the 251 patients with UBT results, 216 (86.1%) were on account of GI symptoms. The ages of the patients ranged from 10 to 77 years with a mean age (SD) of 40.0 (±14.2) years. There were more females 111 (51.4%) and the 31-40 years age group had the largest number of patients 57 (26.4%). Dyspepsia was the most common indication for UBT across the age groups (p=0.001). The frequency of H. pylori infection in our cohort was 64.4%. The highest frequency of the infection was observed among the 31-40 years age group (p=0.072) and among females (73/111; p=0.905). The association between H. pylori infection and the GI symptoms was not statistically significant (p=0.748). The prevalence of H. pylori infection among our study cohort is high. There was no significant association between H. pylori infection and the age group, gender and GI symptoms. The small sample size might be responsible for the lack of significant association.
Evaluation of the Clinical Efficacy of Artemether-Lumefantrine as First Line Antimalarial Therapy after Twelve Years of Adoption in Nigeria
ACT became the drug of first choice in the treatment of acute uncomplicated malaria in Nigeria in 2005. Diminished responsiveness of P. falciparum malaria to Artemether-lumefantrine (AL) has been reported in Nigeria. We evaluated the clinical efficacy of AL in the treatment of malaria, the prevalence of PfATPase6 gene, a molecular marker reported to be associated with artemisinin resistance and its relationship to treatment outcome in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria. In a prospective single arm clinical trial, 121 children aged 6 months to 10 years with confirmed falciparum malaria were enrolled and followed up for 28 days using the WHO protocol. Parasite DNA was extracted and sequenced to identify molecular markers. 64/121 (52.9%) were male and mean age was 77.9 ± 34.7 months. 92.6% (112/121) completed the study. Response of infection to treatment was prompt. Day-28 uncorrected ACPR was 84.8% (95/112). Seven paired samples were successfully genotyped for glurp, msp1 & msp2 markers. All cases of parasite recurrence were new infections. The PCR corrected cure rate at Day-28 was 91.1% (102/112). Hematological recovery was also good. AL was well tolerated. Only E431K mutation of the four reported ATPase-6 mutations was detected with a prevalence of 17%. There was no relationship between ATPase-6 mutation and response to therapy. AL remains safe and efficacious in the treatment of acute uncomplicated malaria in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria. Molecular markers of artemisinin resistance have been detected. This underscores the need to use ACTs in a disciplined manner in other to preserve its efficacy.
Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (cART) induces CNS Neurotoxicity via Oxidative neuronal damage
Background: The newer approach to antiretroviral treatments using combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has led to significant viral suppression but the associated adverse effects from the long-term exposure remain prevalent. This study evaluates the neurotoxicity and reproductive toxicity of cARTs. Methods: Behavioral studies using elevated plus maze, forced swim test, Morris water maze and open field test were used to assess neurobehavioral activities while biochemical parameters were assayed for brain oxidative markers. The reproductive hormones were analyzed along with seminal fluid. Histological staining of brain and testicular tissues was done to evaluate structural changes. Results: cART increased anxiety-related activities, induced memory deficit but showed no depressive activity. There was CNS-associated activity in the open field test, the brain antioxidant activity was reduced, and histological examination shows brain regions with cortical lesions. The reproductive hormones were unaltered and no histological abnormality was seen in the testes and epididymis. Conclusion: The outcome of the study showed that cART induces neurotoxic effect but no reproductive toxicity was observed.
Dose dependent ventricular enlargement, neurodegeneration and mortality rates in kaolin-induced hydrocephalus in adult mice
Intra-cisternal injection of kaolin is the most common method of experimentally inducing hydrocephalus. A reduction in kaolin dosage has been reported to reduce the mortality rate. Thus, the mortality rate and degree of ventricular enlargement in adult male mice with the use of different concentrations of kaolin suspension to induce hydrocephalus and observed the morphological changes in pyramidal neurons of layer V of the sensorimotor cortex and hippocampus were compared. Hydrocephalus was induced intracisternally in adult male mice subdivided into 5 groups (n=27) using 0.02mL of 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg/mL of kaolin respectively while controls (n=15) received sham injection. Mice were weighed biweekly for 4 weeks. Harvested brains were processed for Cresyl violet and NeuN Immunostaining to assess neuronal damage. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8 and ImageJ software. The hydrocephalic rates of 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg/mL groups were 40.0%, 58.8%, 78.6%, 88.9% and 94.4% respectively while their mortality rates were 21.1%, 22.7%, 26.3%, 28.0% and 30.8% respectively. The mortality rate and frequency of hydrocephalus in 250 mg/mL group were significantly higher than 50 and 100 mg/L groups (p<0.0001), while there was no significant difference between the ventricular diameter in 250 mg/mL group and others (p=0.0002). Pyknotic pyramidal neurons of the sensorimotor cortex of mice induced with 250 mg/mL group of kaolin concentration were significantly more numerous than the control (p<0.05). The pyknotic index (PI) of the dentate gyrus in the 250 mg/mL group was significantly higher than the control. NeuN immunohistochemistry of Layer V of hydrocephalic brains demonstrated decreased staining intensity and fewer NeuN-positive cells compared to controls. The findings from this study suggest that for the induction of hydrocephalus in adult mice, the use of 150 mg/mL and 250 mg/mL concentrations are suitable for long and short-term studies respectively.
The Role of Viruses in the Development of Cancer
Cancer continues to be a leading cause of death globally. According to the World Health Organisation, it ranked second most common cause of death globally, claiming millions of lives with millions of new cases diagnosed yearly. Despite recent advances in cancer research and availability of several therapies, severe adverse effects, multi-drug resistance and cost of management are drawbacks of available therapies. Hence, the need for novel approaches that will mitigate the limitations of these conventional treatment options. Cancer has been linked to several factors and while the focus is usually on carcinogenic substances, viruses have been found to account for 15-20% of cancer cases. Oncolytic viruses are viruses that are used in cancer treatment. These viruses have the ability to selectively infect and replicate within tumor cells making them specific in their action against them. This promising approach is also effective when combined with other cancer treatment options such as chemotherapy and radiation.
Evaluation of the analgesic and anticonvulsant properties of the ethanol extract of Lannea acida leaves in mice
Lannea acida A. Rich. (family: Anacardiaceae) is a multipurpose medicinal tree that is indigenous to several West African countries. It is used traditionally for the treatment of several ailments including pain and epilepsy. In this study, Lannea acida leaf ethanol extract's analgesic and anticonvulsant effects are assessed using convulsion and pain models in animals. The phytochemical constituents of the ethanol extract of Lannea acida leaves (EELAL) as well as its acute oral toxicity were determined. Swiss mice weighing between 18-25 g were allotted to treatment groups (n = 5) and the analgesic property of EELAL at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg administered orally was evaluated using acetic acid-induced writhing test, formalin-induced paw licking test and hot plate test. The doses of 500, 750 and 1000 mg/kg were selected for the evaluation of the anticonvulsant activity of EELAL using pentylene tetrazole, strychnine and isoniazid-induced convulsion models. The results of the phytochemical studies showed that EELAL had an abundance of tannins and flavonoids, while the oral median lethal dose (LD50) was determined to be >2000 mg/kg. Acetic acid-induced abdominal constrictions were significantly inhibited by 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, EEAL (58.20, 34.73 and 95.62%) compared with negative control animals. The inflammatory phase of the formalin test was significantly inhibited by EELAL. This was observed as the reduction in paw-licking time compared to normal saline-treated animals. The extract did not show any significant effect on the neurogenic phase of the formalin test, hot plate test and chemical-induced (pentylene-tetrazole, strychnine, and isoniazid) epilepsy tests. The leaves of Lannea acida possess significant peripheral analgesic activity but lack an anticonvulsant effect.
Recent advances in the treatment and management of oligospermia in humans
Male infertility is frequently characterized by low sperm count, all of which relate to semen having a low concentration of sperm. The shape and motility of the sperm are frequently noticeably aberrant in semen with a lower sperm concentration. Oligospermia is a clinical condition diagnosed via laboratory analysis of a semen spermiogram based on the WHO benchmark for normal sperm concentration. Male infertility represents just under half of the cases of infertility, and most of it is caused by oligospermia. Though assisted reproductive technology is most commonly used for couples with this medical condition, drug treatment is a better option. Treatment for oligospermia depends on the underlying causes, however the majority of instances are idiopathic, and a number of medications have been shown to be successful in treating it. This review article is to outline various drugs and plants that have been recently found to be very effective in the treatment and management of oligospermia in humans.
Exploring the Reasoned and Reactive Pathways for Substance Use by Adolescents Living in Nigerian Urban Slums Using the Prototype Willingness Model: A Case Study
The process of initiation and continued use of substances among adolescents in Africa is understudied despite the high prevalence of substance use among them. Understanding the process that leads to the initiation and subsequent use of substances by adolescents is pivotal for focused and context-specific interventions to address the problem. This exploratory qualitative study used case study design to explore the life histories of three out-of-school adolescents with established substance use from selected slum communities of Ibadan, Nigeria. Content analysis was used for data analysis based on the constructs of the Prototype Willingness Model (PWM). There were two males and a female adolescents aged 15 and 18, and 17 years respectively. The initiation and subsequent use of substances followed both the reasoned and reactive pathways of the PMW. For the reasoned construct, there was a low perception of risk for the negative effects of substance use and both their peers, as well as younger family members used substances. Also, the reactive construct showed that prototype favorability of substance users was important for the initiation and subsequent substance use by the adolescents. Substance use was initiated in social settings and with peers. The PWM explained both initiation and subsequent substance use by these adolescents. Further studies with quantitative data could provide more details about the process of substance use based on PMW by adolescents in Nigeria.
Methanol leaf extract of Terminalia superba Engl & Diels (Combretaceae) mitigates chemically induced nociceptive and inflammatory effects in animal models
The effect of methanol extract of T. superba (METs) leaves on nociception and inflammation were investigated in this study. Folk medicine has reported the use of T. superba in the management of swelling, but scientific evidence of its usage is limited. This study aims to study the nociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of Terminalia superba . Fifty Sprague Dawley rats of either sex were split into two major groups with five sub-groups (n=5). Each of the major groups was used for formalin and cotton pellet granuloma models. Also, 50 mice divided into 2 major groups of 25 with 5 groups were used for analgesic writhing and thermal response tail-flick tests in mice. 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg were used while diclofenac (10 mg/kg) and morphine (10 mg/kg) served as standard drugs for anti-inflammatory and analgesic investigations respectively. METs at 200 and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.05) inhibited the inflammatory action of the formalin and cotton pellet granuloma significantly, in a manner that is dose-dependent. METs also significantly (p ˂ 0.05) reduced writhing and thermal response. Based on these results, METS have both anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive potentials which could explain its folkloric use in the management of swelling.
Phytochemical composition, anti-fungal activity of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. (Fabaceae) seed extract and acute toxicity testing of formulated herbal ointment
The growing resistance to conventional dandruff remedies has led to the search for newer and affordable treatments from African medicinal plants. This study evaluates the anti-fungal activity of methanol extract of the seed of Mucuna pruriens L. (DC.) Fabaceae (MP) against Malassezia furfur and Malassezia globosa which have been implicated in dandruff etiology. The MP seed sample was collected from Orba, Enugu State, dried, and pulverized. Macroscopic, microscopic, and phytochemical evaluations of the seed were done. Defatting was done with n-hexane extract and cold maceration with methanol for 72 h (ME extract). The anti-fungal activity of the extracts was determined using the agar dilution method with ketoconazole as standard. Two samples of ointment containing 5% and 10% MP seed methanol extract were prepared with an emulsifying base using a fusion technique. An acute skin toxicity test was carried out by applying the formulation to the skin of albino rats and observations were made. Results: Quantitative phytochemical analysis of secondary metabolites in the MP seed gave: phenolic content (8.3%), alkaloids (0.02%), flavonoids (0.2%), saponins (0.4%), tannins (0.09%). The ME extract inhibited growths of Malassezia furfur (MIC 3 mg/mL) and Malassezia globosa (MIC 2 mg/mL). The 5% and 10% samples of the herbal ointment MPO showed no toxicity or irritancy on the animals. Conclusion: Methanol extract of Mucuna pruriens possess antifungal activity against Malassezia furfur and Malassezia globosa and its ointment appears non-toxic.