Journal of Experimental and Clinical Anatomy

Chloroform fruit extract of Phoenix dactylifera L. (Date Palm) has neuroprotective effect against lead acetate-induced neurotoxicity in Wistar rats

A.N. Agbon — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Environmental and health hazards posed by lead, a heavy metal contaminant, in water and other media are rising. Different solvent-extract forms of the Phoenix dactylifera plant are of vast medicinal benefits. The neuroprotective effect of chloroform fruit pulp extract of P. dactylifera (CFPD) was assessed on lead acetate-induced cerebellar and cerebral toxicity in Wistar rats.

Materials and methods: Twenty-four rats were divided into six groups: (A – F; n= 4): the control (group A) was administered distilled water (2 ml/kg p.o); group B received lead acetate (LA, 120 mg/kg body weight p.o) only; group C, received vitamin C (100 mg/kg body weight p.o) as reference drug concomitantly followed by LA (120 mg/kg body weight p.o); groups (D, E, F) received CFPD (125 mg/kg body weight, 250 mg/kg body weight and 500 mg/kg body weight p.o, respectively) concomitantly followed by LA (120 mg/kg body weight). Administrations lasted for 14 days. The neuroprotective effect of CFPD was evaluated using histological (H&E) stained sections of cortical cerebellar and cerebral– (layers III and V) regions as well as biochemical (oxidative stress markers; serum malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) assessments.

Results: Results revealed neurodegenerative changes in the LA-treated group's cerebellar and cerebral cortices, including perineuronal vacuolation and gliosis. However, the administration of CFPD remarkably ameliorated LA-induced cerebellar and cerebral changes. Relative to the control, the LA-treated group showed altered serum oxidative stress markers, which were ameliorated (p<0.05) with CFPD treatment.

Conclusion: Results suggest that CFPD, especially at a dose of 250 mg/kg, has neuroprotective potential against LA-induced cerebellar and cerebral toxicity in rats which could be attributed to antioxidant properties.

Cannabinoid exposure during pregnancy: consequences for growth, memory and prefrontal cortex integrity in Wistar Rats

I.A. Suleiman — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: The increasing use of cannabis among pregnant women raises concerns about its potential impact on prenatal development. Many pregnant women use cannabis for its anti-emetic or anti-nausea effects, often under the belief that it is safe during pregnancy. However, prenatal exposure to the primary cannabinoids, THC and CBD, may result in neurodevelopmental deficits in offspring. This study aimed to assess the effects of late prenatal cannabis exposure on neurodevelopment in Wistar rats.

Materials and methods: Twenty-four female Wistar rats (12 weeks old) were mated, and pregnancy was confirmed by the presence of spermatozoa in vaginal smears on day 1. The animals were divided into four groups: Control (Group A), Late CBD (Group B), Late THC (Group C), and Late THC/CBD (Group D), with six rats per group. From gestational days 15 to 19, Group A received olive oil, Group B received CBD (150mg/kg body weight), Group C received THC (150mg/kg body weight), and Group D received a combination of CBD and THC (150mg/kg body weight each) via oral administration. After birth, the pups were allowed to grow, and at week 7, the adolescent rats were subjected to neurobehavioral tests. Upon completion of behavioral assessments, the rats were euthanized, and their brains were dissected, fixed in 10% formal saline, and processed for histological analysis.

Results: The results showed a significant reduction in birth weight at postnatal day 1 (PND 1) in the CBD, THC, and THC/CBD groups, with an increased percentage of alternate arm return at p< 0.05, morphological changes in pyramidal cells in the prefrontal cortex, indicating impaired cognition.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that late prenatal exposure to cannabis, specifically THC and CBD, leads to low birth weight and cognitive impairments in offspring, particularly in the prefrontal cortex.

Zingiber officinale-supplemented diet reversed lead-induced oxidative stress and cerebral cortex injuries in adult female Wistar rats

F.O. Ojo — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Ginger (Zingiber officinale), a widely recognized medicinal plant popularly used as spice has attracted attention due to its ability to boost the immune system and reverse conditions associated with organ toxicity via its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. This study assessed the effects of Zingiber Officinale (ginger) on the changes in feed intake, oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde and total antioxidant capacity) and cerebral cortex injury associated with lead treatment in rats.

Materials and methods: Twenty adult female Wistar rats, each weighing between 150 and 170g, were randomly divided into four groups of five animals each (n = 5). Groups A and B; the negative and positive controls were fed with (distilled water) orally via gavage and basic lead carbonate at 30 mg/kg respectively. Both groups A and B were fed with measured standard diet. Groups C and D received a diet supplemented with powdered ginger at compositions of 1% and 5% of their feed respectively. All the administered substances were provided daily throughout the experimental period of 28 days. On day 29, the animals were euthanized by cervical dislocation and blood samples were collected through intra-cardiac puncture, stored in a heparinized bottle, and further processed to assess the levels of oxidative markers (Malondialdehyde and Anti-oxidant status). The brain tissues were extracted, visually examined, weighed, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, processed for paraffin embedding, cut to a thickness of 5μm, and stained with Hemetoxylin and Eosin (H&E) for histological findings.

Results: Result showed that ginger reversed decreased feed intake, oxidative impairment, and cerebral cortex injury induced by lead.

Conclusion: The consumption of products supplemented with ginger and its usage as spice should be further encouraged. More findings are needed to ascertain its optimal consumption levels in humans.

Investigation of inheritance pattern of palmar creases among the Urhobo and Ogoni Ethnic Groups in South-South Nigeria

T.C. Omuruka — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of palmar creases have been implicated for diagnoses of congenital abnormalities as well as prediction of identity, ancestry, and ethnicity. Thus, suggesting the genetic basis of palmar creases. This study investigated the inheritance pattern of palmar creases among the Urhobo and Ogoni ethnic groups in South-South Nigeria.

Methodology: In this family-based study 95 families- 60 Urhobo and 35 Ogoni families were recruited. Using dermatoglyphic capture technique, palm prints of the subjects were obtained. Proportion of Concordance was used to determine inheritability. Mendelian Chi-square analysis of trait dominance was used to establish dominant patterns.

Results: Inheritance likelihood of pattern of origin of major palmar creases among the Urhobos was 78.3% and 83.3% on the right and left palms respectively while that of Ogoni showed 85.7% on the right palm and 77.1% on the left palm; shape of palmar creases of the Urhobos was 90.0% on the right palm and 93.3% on the left palm while that of the Ogoni was 88.6% and 88.6% on the right and left palms respectively; Middle/Mid longitudinal crease for Urhobo was 88.3% and 93.3% on the right and left palms respectively while that of the Ogoni was 85.7% on the right and left palms respectively.

Conclusion: The inheritance of origin/meeting pattern of the major creases is purely under the influence of more than two alleles while that of shape and Middle longitudinal crease tend to suggest a di-allelic influenced expression. Middle longitudinal crease showed purely a dominant-recessive expression.

Using the anteroposterior diameter of C3-C7 spinal canals to assess cervical stenosis among Ghanaian males: An anatomical study

A.A. Brown — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Cervical stenosis (CS) occurs when the size of the spinal canal is narrower in an individual than that of the general population. Individuals with CS may be asymptomatic or may present with a wide array of neurological symptoms. There however appears to be paucity of information on the AP canal diameter among Ghanaians. This study therefore, aimed at using the diameter of C3-C7 spinal canals to assess the presence of cervical stenosis in the Ghanaian male population.

Material and Methods: The study was carried out using 110 dry cervical vertebrae which the author harvested from 24 male cadavers. The anteroposterior diameter (AP) of the cervical spinal canal for C3-C7 vertebrae were measured using a digital Vernier caliper to 0.01mm precision. Using the means and standard deviations, the spinal canals were classified as relatively narrow or narrow.

Results: The percentage of narrow and relatively narrow spinal canals was 1.82% (2) and 10.0% (11) respectively. The C4 vertebra was observed to have the smallest AP diameter 12.38±2.12mm, while C6 had the largest AP dimeter 13.88±1.47mm. AP diameters in the present study were found to differ from Caucasians and African-American males, but were similar to those reported in Asians and Female African-American females.

Conclusion: In the present study 11.8% of cervical vertebrae showed some degree of narrowing. The mean AP diameters of the spinal canals in the present study were found to be smaller than those reported in Caucasians and African American males. The findings of the present study suggest the need to develop race and geographic specific criteria for diagnosing CS.

Investigating cerebellar oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis following sub-acute MPTP administration in Balb/c mice

F.A. Sulaimon — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) administered mice is a known model of Parkinson's disease (PD) which is characterized by neurodegeneration primarily in the substantia nigra; however, increasing evidence highlights the role of the cerebellum in both motor and non-motor symptoms. This study investigates the effects of sub-acute MPTP administration on oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the cerebellum of adult male Balb/c mice.

Methods: Twenty adult male Balb/c mice, weighing 20-30 g, were acclimatized for 14 days and assigned to control (n=10, PBS) and MPTP groups (n=10, 20 mg/kg body weight of MPTP, intraperitoneally administered daily for five consecutive days). Behavioral assessments were performed using an open field test on day seven, focusing on cerebellar-related behaviors. Following this, histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses were conducted to evaluate markers of oxidative stress (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 along with glutathione peroxidase), inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-alpha as well as nuclear factor kappa B), and apoptosis (B-cell lymphoma 2).

Results: MPTP administration significantly reduced nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 along with glutathione peroxidase while increasing tumor necrosis factor-alpha as well as nuclear factor kappa B in the cerebellum, coinciding with enhanced apoptosis as indicated by a lower B-cell lymphoma 2 level. Behavioral results revealed significant reductions in the grooming frequency of MPTP-treated mice compared to controls.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that MPTP induces oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the cerebellum of adult male Balb/c mice, it might be worthwhile to observe the cerebellar changes in the diagnosis and management of PD.

Effects of aqueous fruit extracts of Adansonia digitata on lead acetate-induced hippocampal toxicity on adult Rattus Norvegicus

A. Sunusi — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Baobab (Adansonia digitata) is a super fruit acclaimed for its high antioxidant content and associated medicinal benefits. Oxidative stress, a key contributor to various brain disorders—including stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases—underscores the need for effective neuroprotective agents. This study aimed to assess the ameliorative effects of an aqueous baobab fruit extract against lead-induced hippocampal structural and functional toxicity.

Methods: Twenty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 5 per group). Group 1 (control) received distilled water. Group 2 was treated with lead at 233 mg/kg body weight (bwt). Group 3 received 500 mg/kg bwt of baobab extract, while Group 4 received both lead (233 mg/kg bwt) and baobab extract (500 mg/kg bwt) orally for 28 days. Following the treatment period, the rats were sacrificed via partial decapitation. Blood was collected by ventricular puncture for biochemical analyses—specifically, the measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA), and key antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GPx], and catalase [CAT]). Brain tissues were harvested for histological examination of the hippocampus.

Results: Lead-treated rats exhibited a significant increase in serum MDA levels (2.00 U/L) compared to the baobab-treated group (1.60 U/L). Furthermore, the levels of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPx, and CAT) were significantly higher in both the baobab-only and combination treatment groups than in the lead-only group. Histologically, the lead-treated group showed marked distortion of the hippocampal cellular architecture, a change that was not observed in groups receiving baobab extract.

Conclusion: The aqueous extract of baobab fruit effectively mitigates lead-induced oxidative stress and preserves hippocampal structure, supporting its potential as a neuroprotective agent.

The Role of histo-taphonomy in postmortem interval estimation: A preliminary study of porcine liver and kidney

C.O. Obun — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) remains a critical challenge in forensic investigations due to the complex interplay of decompositional processes. Histo-taphonomy, the microscopic examination of postmortem tissue changes, offers a potential approach for PMI determination. This study investigates the histological changes in porcine liver and kidney tissues over a controlled postmortem timeline to assess their forensic applicability.

Methodology: A healthy female pig (Sus scrofa) was euthanized, and liver and kidney tissues were harvested immediately postmortem. Samples were collected at 0, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, and 96 hours postmortem. The tissues were fixed in 10% buffered formalin, processed using standard histological techniques, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for microscopic examination.

Results: Histological analysis revealed progressive tissue degradation over time. Kidney tissues initially showed mild structural alterations, followed by significant nuclear changes and architectural disintegration. Liver tissues exhibited early-stage fibrosis and progressive hepatocyte necrosis. The observed cellular degeneration followed a time-dependent pattern, with both organs demonstrating severe autolysis by 96 hours postmortem.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that histo-taphonomy provides a structured framework for PMI estimation based on organ-specific decomposition patterns. Given the anatomical and physiological similarities between porcine and human tissues, this model could serve as a valuable tool in forensic investigations. Future studies should incorporate environmental variables and molecular markers to enhance the accuracy and applicability of histological PMI estimation in forensic casework.

Protective Potential of Aqueous Extract of Turmeric on the Cognitive Function of Adult Female Wistar Rats Administered with Co-Codamol

B.O. Abe — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Co-codamol, a widely used analgesic, has been associated with cognitive impairments. This study explored the possible neuroprotective effect of aqueous extract of turmeric against co-codamol-induced cognitive deficits in adult female Wistar rats.

Materials and methods: Twenty adult female Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n=5 each). Groups 1 to 3received oral administration of 530mg/kg of co-codamol only, co-administration of 530mg/kg of co-codamol plus 200mg/kg of curcumin only, and 200mg/kg of curcumin only respectively for 2 weeks at a single dose of 5ml while group 4 (controls) received normal saline orally. Body weight measurements were taken and recorded, before administration and at the time of sacrifice. The rats were assessed for neurobehavioral using T-maze apparatus. The brain tissues were harvested and weighed. Data obtained were analyzed with Graph pad prism version 8.4. Results were expressed as mean ± SEM.

Results: The control group had increased body and organ weights, but there was no significant difference between the body weights of co-codamol only group and other experimental groups. Furthermore, the brain weight of rats administered with co-codamol only was significantly lower than control and other experimental groups. Neurobehavioral studies showed that the rats in the co-codamol only group had significantly longer recognition and memory times compared to control and other experimental groups (p<0.005).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that aqueous extract of turmeric administration could mitigate the cognitive impairment caused by co-codamol due to the changes observed in the neurobehavioral studies of the rats administered with the extract of turmeric.

Histological features of the uterine tubes following administration of aqueous tobacco extract in female albino rats

D.O. Omondi — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Tobacco consumption among women of reproductive age is associated with more than twofold increase in the risk of tubal ectopic pregnancy. Established adverse effects of tobacco on reproduction include infertility, low birth weight and miscarriages. This study aimed at investigating the effects of liquid tobacco extract on the mucosa of the uterine tubes using rat models.

Materials and Methods: Thirty rats (6 baseline, 12 experimental and 12 control) were used in the study. The baseline rats were sacrificed at the start of the experiment. The rats in the experimental group received 30mg/kg body weight of the extract while the rats in the control group received normal saline. On days 15 and 30, 6 rats from the control group and 6 from the experimental group were respectively euthanized, perfused and their uterine tubes harvested for processing and embedding in paraffin wax. Photomicrographs were taken and analyzed.

Results: A decrease in the mucosal thickness, height and number of the mucosal folds was observed in the experimental group. A squamous transformation of the normal columnar epithelium of the uterine tubes was also observed.

Conclusion: These microscopic alterations may underlie the functional impairments of the uterine tube associated with tobacco consumption (whether by smoking or chewing), increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

Cytological assessment of sputum smear and total blood count of workers in wood and timber industries

T.I.A. Onwunumagha — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Inhalation of airborne dust at the wood/timber workplace puts the worker at risk of occupational disease. This study was aimed at comparing selected staining methods for the histological assessment of sputum smear from wood and timber workers.

Methodology: Fifty timber workers, 25 males and 25 females of eighteen (18) years and above from Abakaliki timber industries were recruited for this study. Four civil servants who do not live close to the wood industries were used as control. Blood and sputum samples were collected from the subjects. Giemsa stain and Papanicolaou stain were used for the histological analysis.

Results: Out of 50 participants, 26 of them had normal range of PCV value, 7 have abnormally high range of the PCV and 17 of the workers had abnormally low range of PCV. Forty-four workers had normal range of neutrophils, 6 of the workers had abnormal level of neutrophils of which 3 were within higher range and 3 of lower range. Normal lymphocytes level was seen in 15 participants while abnormal level was seen in 35 subjects, of which twenty (20) are high and fifteen (15) low. Eosinophils level of 18 participants were found to fall within the normal range while 32 were seen to be abnormally low. There are observable histological changes in the test groups when compared with the control group in both staining techniques. Giemsa stain tends to render the cell nuclei thinner and more spread-out than the Papanicolaou stain.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that exposure to wood dust especially for a prolonged period of time is highly detrimental to human health.

Effect of lauric acid on some of the hematological parameters and indices in male Wistar rats exposed to sleep deprivation

O.M. Avidime — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Sleep deprivation is a prevalent issue affecting a substantial portion of the population, leading to numerous adverse health outcomes including alterations in blood parameters, increased inflammation, dyslipidemia, and oxidative stress. Sleep deprivation is highly prevalent in the modern world, possibly reaching epidemic proportions. Lauric acid is the most abundant medium- chain fatty acid of coconut oil, which has been reportedly used for various health benefits. This study aimed at assessing the effect of Lauric acid on some hematological parameters and their indices in sleep-deprived male Wistar rats.

Methodology: Sixteen male Wistar rats were assigned into 4 groups randomly, group 1 which served as the control group was given only food and water without sleep deprivation, the group 2 rats were deprived from sleep for a period of 20hrs daily for 7days according to a standard protocol and were not treated with, and the third and fourth groups were sleep deprived and were given lauric acid (at 50mg/k Lauric acidg and 100mg/kg respectively) 4hrs before sleep deprived protocol for a period of 20hrs daily for 7days. The animals were all sacrificed a day after the seventh day of the experiment and the blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture with a 5ml syringe into sample bottles for hematological analysis.

Results: The results of the present study revealed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the mean value of Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Haemoglobin concentration (Hb), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH) in the group subjected to sleep deprivation compared to the control group and non-significant decrease was also observed in the mean values of Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) in the sleep-deprived group compared to the control. The groups administered with 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of Lauric acid 4 hrs and subjected to sleep deprivation for 20 hrs daily for 7 days showed increased mean values in RBC, PCV, Mean Corpuscular Volume, Haemoglobin Concentration, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin and MCHC and were statistically significant (p < 0.05) except for RBC and MCHC compared to control group and the sleep deprived group.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study demonstrated significant decrease in PCV, Hb, MCV, MCH and a non-significant reduction in the mean values of RBC count and MCHC in the sleep-deprived male Wistar rats and the effects were significantly ameliorated in the groups treated with 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of Lauric acid 4 hrs before being subjected to 20 hrs sleep deprivation daily for 7 days.

Impact of Potassium Sorbate on Cognitive Performance and Hippocampal Morphology in Wistar Rats

M.Y. Adana — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Potassium sorbate is commonly used as an antimicrobial preservative in oral and topical pharmaceutical formulations and is generally regarded as a relatively nontoxic substance by the US FDA. However, some adverse reactions to potassium sorbate have been reported. This research aimed to investigate the effects of potassium sorbate on the structure and function of the hippocampus in adult male Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods: Twenty-five male Wistar rats, aged 8-10 weeks and weighing 180-220g, were randomly divided into five groups of five rats each. The groups included Group NS, which received normal saline; PS25, which received potassium sorbate at 25 mg/kg body weight; PS50, which received potassium sorbate at 50 mg/kg body weight; PS100, which received potassium sorbate at 100 mg/kg body weight; and PS200, which received potassium sorbate at 200 mg/kg body weight. All treatments were administered orally every day for 56 days. Histological, biochemical, and immunohistochemical methods were used to assess the structural and functional characteristics of the groups. The immunohistochemical localisation of GFAP (Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein), NeuN (Neuronal Nuclear Protein), and BCL-2 (B-cell Lymphoma/Leukemia 2 Protein) was performed. Additionally, the effects on the animals’ behaviour were evaluated using behavioural tests.

Results: The structure and expression of proteins in the hippocampus were dose-dependently distorted; however, no notable changes in learning and memory functions were observed in the animals.

Conclusion: Potassium sorbate exhibits deleterious effects on the hippocampus of rats in a dose-dependent manner.

Histological evaluation of wound healing potential of pods of Acacia nilotica aqueous and methanol extracts in rats

I. Mohammed — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Wound is a physical trauma that forms as a result of compromise in the integrity of tissue. Wound healing is a physiological mechanism that comprises series of processes, and involves complex biochemical and cellular interactions which result in restoration of functional integrity and structural regain of injured tissues. Acacia nilotica pod, bark, and stem extracts have been reported to have enhanced healing of wound by increasing epithelialization, collagen fibers formation, angiogenesis as well as wound contraction. This research aimed to investigate histological wound healing effects of Acacia nilotica pod aqueous and methanol extracts in rat model.

Methods: Acacia nilotica pod aqueous and methanol extracts were made at different concentrations, wounds were created by skin excision in three groups of rats, wound healing surface areas were assessed, the animals were sacrificed and analyzed histologically.

Results: The results showed that both the aqueous and methanol extracts of Acacia pods has significant effect on wound healing surface area with re-epithelialization, wound contraction, fibroblast and collagen formation.

Conclusion: Acacia nilotica pod aqueous and methanol extracts speed up wound contraction and wound healing and both extracts at the concentration of 1% and 2% can be used for the treatment of wound.

Correlation of intercanine distance with bizygomatic width and intercanthal distance in Nigerian population

C.M. Okeke — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Some facial parameters may be used to determine the width of maxillary anterior teeth when there is no pre extraction record. The aim of this study was to find out if intercanine distance (ICD) has any correlation with bizygomatic width (BZW), inner intercanthal distance (IICW) and outer intercanthal distance (OICW) in our environment.

Materials and Methods: The sample size was 348 (157 males and 191 females) and age range was from 18 to 28 years. The ICD, BZW, IICD and OICD were measured with a Venier caliper in millimeters. Means and standard deviations of parameters were obtained and comparison of means was done with t test. Correlation was done with Pearson correlation while p value was set at 0.05.

Results: The values of BZW (male - 112.4 ± 9.6mm, female - 109.0 ± 8.2mm), IICW (male - 35.3 ± 3.1mm, female - 34.4 ± 5.4mm) OICW (male - 102.2 ± 7.9mm, female - 99.9 ± 6.0mm) and ICD (male - 42.9 ± 2.5mm, female - 41.3 ± 2.4mm) were significantly higher in males than females. Among males BZW, IICW and OICW had mild significant correlation with ICD. In females, BZW, IICW and OICW did not have any correlation with ICD.

Conclusion: There was weak correlation between ICD and the studied facial parameters in males, but there was no correlation in females in our environment. Hence, the studied facial parameters may not be used as alternative for determining ICD.

Modulatory effects of aqueous rhizome extract of Zingiber officinale on oxidative stress, inflammation, and steroidogenesis in alcohol-induced testicular damage in Wistar rats

C.N. Esomchi — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Male reproductive health is increasingly compromised by environmental and lifestyle factors, with chronic alcohol consumption being a major contributor to testicular dysfunction. Alcohol-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and disruption of steroidogenesis play key roles in reproductive toxicity. Zingiber officinale (ginger) has been widely reported for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and steroidogenic properties. This study investigated the modulatory effects of aqueous rhizome extract of ginger on oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, and steroidogenic enzymes in alcohol-induced testicular damage in Wistar rats.

Methodology: Thirty male Wistar rats, weighing 100-160 g, were randomly assigned into six groups (n=5/group). Group A received sterile water, while Group B was administered 40% alcohol (3.50 g/kg body weight) for 14 days. Group C received only ginger extract (750 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days. Groups D, E, and F were treated with alcohol for 14 days, followed by low (250 mg/kg body weight), medium (500 mg/kg body weight), and high (750 mg/kg body weight) doses of ginger for another 14 days. Biochemical assays assessed antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, MDA), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, IL-4), and steroidogenic enzyme levels (3β-HSD, 17β-HSD).

Results: Alcohol exposure significantly increased oxidative stress markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines while reducing antioxidant enzyme activities and steroidogenic enzyme levels. Ginger administration led to a dose-dependent restoration of antioxidant defenses, reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, and improvement in steroidogenic enzyme activities. Notably, lower doses of ginger were more effective in restoring normal testicular function compared to higher doses.

Conclusion: Aqueous rhizome extract of Zingiber officinale demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent in mitigating alcohol-induced reproductive toxicity through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and steroidogenic properties. These findings suggest its possible application in male fertility preservation.

Measuring body fat percentage using anthropometric skinfolds with different methods and investigating the outcomes of the methods: a case study of secondary school students in Lagos State

H.A. Omotayo — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Individuals of upcoming age might experience a rapid body growth which can include excessive body fat, and this must be put on check because body composition of every individual is as important as health, wellness and fitness. This study aim to estimate body fat percentage of secondary school students in Lagos State using two different methods and subject the difference to a significance test.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study of 640 students (302 Males and 338 Females) of voluntary participation was carried out in secondary schools in Lagos State. Multistage Sampling with Simple Random Sampling deployed at each stage. All body measurements follow the recommendation of International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) and SLIMGUIDE^® calliper was used in taking the body skinfolds measurements for the study. The data was analysed for descriptive analysis and Body Fat Percentage. In addition, t-test statistics was performed on methods to check for significance and statistical significance set at p<0.05.

Results: The results shows variations in anthropometric indices of students in secondary schools across age and sex. Furthermore, it shows fluctuation in the body fat percentage based on age and sex. In addition there is a significance in the mean difference between the two methods used in measuring the body fat percentage.

Conclusion: This study have establish that there will be variation in estimates of body fat percentage for every different methods applied for an individual leading to different categorization of body fat. Therefore a need uniform and generally acceptable model is required.

Assessment of nutritional parameters and socioeconomic status among menopausal women with type II diabetes in Lagos Mainland, Lagos State, Nigeria

F.O. Opoola — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Nutrition is a fundamental pillar of human life, health and development across the entire life span. . The core elements of Anthropometric are height, weight, body mass index (BMI), body circumferences (waist, hip and limbs). These measurements are important because they represent diagnostic criteria for obesity, which significantly increases the risk for conditions such as T2DM and many more. Socioeconomic status (SES) is one of the critical factors determining menopausal age, a lower SES significantly associated with an elevated incidence of premature ovarian insufficiency and early menopause. Menopausal women with T2DM face unique nutritional challenges such as weight management, cardiovascular disease, mood and cognitive function that may significantly impact their health outcomes and quality of life. This study aims to assess the relationships between the Nutritional parameters and socioeconomic status among menopausal women with type II diabetes in Lagos mainland, Lagos state, Nigeria.

Methodology: Seven hundred and two (702) clinically diagnosed Type II diabetic menopausal women were recruited from some medical facilities at Lagos mainland. Nutritional parameters such as BMI, mid upper arm, waist, hip circumference among others were taken using standard procedures.

Results: The results shows that majority of the menopausal women with T2DM were overweight (270) and were diagnosed with Type II diabetes after Menopause. The average age at menopause was 46.73 years. There are statistically significant differences among the different nutritional classes in waist circumference (0.018), MUAC (0.004) and Thigh circumference (0.023) with p < 0.05. An Association exist between the menopause duration and nutritional status.

Conclusion: in conclusion, there is a relationship between the nutritional status, among menopausal women with type II diabetes in Lagos mainland, Lagos state Nigeria.

Effect of methanol leaf extract of Nicotiana tabacum (tobacco) on long-term memory in Wistar rats

A.O. Wahab — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: The dentate gyrus, an important part of hippocampal formation responsible for the formation of episodic memory as well as exploration of new environments. Nicotiana tabacum is a neurotoxic plant but its effects on long-term memory have not been fully explored. This study assessed the effects of Methanol Leaf Extract of Nicotiana tabacum (MLNT) on long-term memory using elevated plus maze (EPM) and step-down inhibitory apparatus (SDIA).

Methodology: Twenty male rats were divided into four groups of five animals each. Group A was the control which was administered with distilled water. Groups B to D were treated with 150, 300 and 600 mg/kg body weight of MLNT respectively. Treatment was done orally for twenty-eight days, following which animals were exposed to the EPM and SDIA. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed. The brain was dissected and fixed in Bouin’s fluid for histochemical routine. The data obtained for behavioral studies were analyzed using Graph Pad Prism Version 20.

Results: The results obtained for both EPM AND SDIA showed no significant difference in the MLNT treated groups when compared to the control. However, histochemical analysis of the dentate gyrus revealed neurodegeneration in all treated groups when compared to the control.

Conclusion: The outcomes of the study revealed that MLNT is a potential neurotoxicant through the histoarchitectural distortion of the dentate gyrus of the Wistar rats.

Determination of sex from clavicular and scapular parameters from normal posteroanterior chest radiographs of adults in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

T.O. Johnbull — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Identification of sex from human remains has been an imperative aspect in forensic anthropology. This can be achieved from bony structures such as the scapular and clavicle which has shown to be sexually dimorphic. This study evaluated the anatomy of the scapular and clavicular parameters of adults in Bayelsa State using normal anterioposterior chest radiographs.

Methods: A total of 500normal chest radiographs of Males (n=250, mean age 40.5±0.9) and females (n=250, mean age 40.7±0.9) were used for this study. The parameters studied were length of right and left clavicle, thickness of right and left clavicle; height of right and left scapular; and width of right and left scapular.

Results: The results showed that males had longer and thicker clavicles than females. Similarly, scapula measurements (Height and Width) were larger in males than females. P-value for TRC and HRS were p<0.05 indicating statistical significance. There were also differences within genders, with left clavicles and scapulas being slightly larger than their right counterparts.

Conclusion: The present study confirmed sex dimorphic characteristics of the measured parameters of the clavicle and scapula in normal chest radiographs of adult population in Bayelsa state in different age levels.

Ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of fermented unripe Musa paradisiaca pulp on alcohol-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers in adult male Wistar rats

C.E. Anwara — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Alcohol consumption is widespread and associated with numerous diseases, including gastrointestinal tract (GIT) disorders. Among these, gastric and duodenal ulcers are prevalent, with ethanol being a significant contributing factor. Given the side effects of many antiulcer drugs, there is a growing interest in natural remedies, such as plantains (Musa paradisiaca), which have shown potential antiulcer properties. This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of fermented unripe M. paradisiaca pulp on alcohol-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers in adult male Wistar rats.

Methodology: Twenty male Wistar rats weighing 180–220g were divided into five groups. Group A served as the negative control, while Group B was the positive control receiving 1 mL/100 g body weight of 100% ethanol only. Groups C, D, and E received ethanol followed by 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 750 mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of fermented M. paradisiaca pulp, respectively. Gastric and duodenal pH levels, ulcer index, and histopathological changes were assessed.

Results: The study showed a dose-dependent increase in gastric pH levels in treated groups compared to controls. The ulcer index significantly decreased in groups treated with M. paradisiaca extract. Histopathological examination revealed reduced ulceration and inflammatory cell infiltration in the treatment groups, with Group E exhibiting the most considerable curative effects.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that M. paradisiaca extracts have an ameliorative effect against ethanol-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers. These highlight the antiulcer potential of M. paradisiaca and suggest its utility as a natural therapeutic option for peptic ulcer treatment.

Reconstruction of postmortem interval from evaluation of decomposition rates and patterns based on modes of death using porcine models

M.E. Nandi — 2025-03-31

Background and aim: Decomposition patterns and rates are important in forensic taphonomy for estimating postmortem interval and determining the hidden mode of death. The current research documents decomposition rates for four different modes of death using domestic pigs as proxies for human remains in Northern Cross River State, Nigeria.

Methodology: Four porcine specimens were subjected to different modes of death (burning, strangulation, poison and blunt force trauma) and placed in open earth surface environment. Physical and chemical postmortem changes were monitored over 30 days, incorporating assessments of total body score (TBS), accumulated degree days (ADD), and insects colonization.

Results: Distinct variations in the rates of decomposition between different modes of death. Fire-induced rapid early decomposition was observed among burnt carrion as a result of desiccation of tissues brought about by fire. The toxic environment probably brought about by insect mortality delayed decaying in poisoned carrion. Blunt trauma carrions decomposed more quickly than the strangulated and drowned specimens, while the environmental exposure accelerated tissue breakdown. Insects were a principal agent in the degradation of soft tissues, whose species diversity and activities differed between modes of death. Analyses of the soils demonstrated a modification of the physicochemical characteristics after decomposition fluids had acted, especially nitrogen enrichment, but were indicative of the importance of the role of soil in modulating decay rates.

Conclusion: These findings present foundational insights into the advancement of forensic taphonomy and contribute to the enhancement of medico-legal investigations in Nigeria and other resource-constrained regions.

Toxicity effects of energy drinks in combination with alcohol on the cerebellar cortex of adult Wistar rats

P.U. Lukpata — 2025-04-03

Background and aim: Alcohol in combination with energy drink becomes a popular combined drink among young and old people, for different reasons. This study aimed at investigating the acute toxicity associated with energy drinks in combination with alcohol on the cerebellum of adult Wistar rats.

Methodology: A total of 40 Male weight 121-134g and were divided into four groups, Red bull + Alcohol, Herbal Energy Drink+ Alcohol and Alcohol + Red bull + Herbal Energy Drink, as experimental groups and control group, and each group comprises of 7 rats each. Group Red bull + Alcohol (2.4ml), Herbal Energy Drink+ Alcohol (2.4ml) and Alcohol + Red bull + Herbal Energy Drink received (3.6ml), while control group received distilled water for a period of 28 days. After administration, they were euthanized using cervical dislocation, and the brains were collected and fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for analysis.

Results: The results showed significant increase (p<0.05), in body weight of the treated groups Red bull + Alcohol (87.66±2.04), Herbal Energy Drink + Alcohol (107.97±1.19) and Red bull + Herbal Energy Drink + Alcohol (93.77±1.22), compared to the control. Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) decreases statistically (p<0.05), in energy drinks in combination with alcohol compared to control while Malondialdehyde (MDA) increased statistically (p<0.05). Histopathological analysis showed that energy drinks in combination with alcohol induced neuroinflammation.

Conclusion: Our results suggested that energy drinks consumption with alcohol causes an inflammatory response and oxidative stress lending to neuronal death cell.

Tubo-Ovarian (Adnexal) Ectopic Gravidae: Comparative Analysis of 2 Cases

A.M. Afodun — 2025-04-03

Ectopic pregnancy occurs as a result of conceptus external to the endometrial cavity. It is a major cause of maternal mortality. Published case notes on this phenomenon fails to make accurate diagnosis of tubal conceptus. Incidence of ectopic pregnancy averages about 2.2% of all gravidae and is a leading cause of female mortality globally. A 30-year-old nulliparous woman registered at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Uganda with complain of upper pelvic pain on the right groin and iliac region for 4 days and amenorrhea for 6 weeks. Pelvic ultrasound showed right unruptured tubo-ovarian pregnancy with a fetal pole corresponding to 7 weeks + 1 day gestational age. Eight weeks later the pregnancy resulted in a missed abortion. A second (asymptomatic) ectopic case in a woman of reproductive age is reported. Incidental sonographic finding confirmed an adnexal mass containing a yolk sac coupled with high levels of beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (β-hCG) in blood and urine; this in sexually active females of pubertal age is a positive ectopic gravida except proven otherwise. It was 6 weeks + 1 day gestational age and later terminated by elective surgery. Both cases were compared with normal intra-uterine pregnancy of 8weeks + 5days gestational age. It should be noted that past uterine surgical operation may ‘alter’ uterine physiologic environment to increase the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy. Tubal-Ring Sign in tubal gravidae is observed by a roundish hyperechoic ring surrounding the extra uterine gestational sac.