Rapid, antibiotic incubation-free determination of tuberculosis drug resistance using machine learning and Raman spectroscopy.

Tuberculosis (TB) is the world's deadliest infectious disease, with over 1.5 million deaths and 10 million new cases reported anually. The causative organism Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) can take nearly 40 d to culture, a required step to determine the pathogen's antibiotic susceptibility. Both rapid identification and rapid antibiotic susceptibility testing of Mtb are essential for effective patient treatment and combating antimicrobial resistance. Here, we demonstrate a rapid, culture-free, and antibiotic incubation-free drug susceptibility test for TB using Raman spectroscopy and machine learning. We collect few-to-single-cell Raman spectra from over 25,000 cells of the Mtb complex strain Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) resistant to one of the four mainstay anti-TB drugs, isoniazid, rifampicin, moxifloxacin, and amikacin, as well as a pan-susceptible wildtype strain. By training a neural network on this data, we classify the antibiotic resistance profile of each strain, both on dried samples and on patient sputum samples. On dried samples, we achieve >98% resistant versus susceptible classification accuracy across all five BCG strains. In patient sputum samples, we achieve ~79% average classification accuracy. We develop a feature recognition algorithm in order to verify that our machine learning model is using biologically relevant spectral features to assess the resistance profiles of our mycobacterial strains. Finally, we demonstrate how this approach can be deployed in resource-limited settings by developing a low-cost, portable Raman microscope that costs <$5,000. We show how this instrument and our machine learning model enable combined microscopy and spectroscopy for accurate few-to-single-cell drug susceptibility testing of BCG.

Rapid, antibiotic incubation-free determination of tuberculosis drug resistance using machine learning and Raman spectroscopy.

Tuberculosis (TB) is the world's deadliest infectious disease, with over 1.5 million deaths annually and 10 million new cases reported each year. The causative organism, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) can take nearly 40 days to culture, a required step to determine the pathogen's antibiotic susceptibility. Both rapid identification of Mtb and rapid antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) are essential for effective patient treatment and combating antimicrobial resistance. Here, we demonstrate a rapid, culture-free, and antibiotic incubation-free drug susceptibility test for TB using Raman spectroscopy and machine learning. We collect few-to-single-cell Raman spectra from over 25,000 cells of the MtB complex strain Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) resistant to one of the four mainstay anti-TB drugs, isoniazid, rifampicin, moxifloxacin and amikacin, as well as a pan susceptible wildtype strain. By training a neural network on this data, we classify the antibiotic resistance profile of each strain, both on dried samples and in patient sputum samples. On dried samples, we achieve >98% resistant versus susceptible classification accuracy across all 5 BCG strains. In patient sputum samples, we achieve ~79% average classification accuracy. We develop a feature recognition algorithm in order to verify that our machine learning model is using biologically relevant spectral features to assess the resistance profiles of our mycobacterial strains. Finally, we demonstrate how this approach can be deployed in resource-limited settings by developing a low-cost, portable Raman microscope that costs <$5000. We show how this instrument and our machine learning model enables combined microscopy and spectroscopy for accurate few-to-single-cell drug susceptibility testing of BCG.

Anacardium occidentale leaves extract and riboceine mitigate hyperglycemia through anti-oxidative effects and modulation of some selected genes associated with diabetes.

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the leading causes of death globally and complications of DM have become a major health concern. Anacardium occidentale is a plant widely recognized for its hypoglycemic properties and traditionally used in developing nations as remedy for DM treatment. Riboceine is a supplement that enhances production of glutathione and known for its vital role in supporting cellular function. This study was designed to evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of riboceine and ethanolic extract of A. occidentale leaves in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Method: Twenty-nine adult male Wistar rats were induced with DM intraperitoneally using a single dose of STZ (70 mg/kg). The STZ-induced rats were divided into groups and administered the same dose (100 mg/kg) of A. occidentale leaves extract and riboceine via gastric gavage at the dose (100 mg/kg) for seventeen days while metformin (40 mg/kg) was used as positive control. Fasting blood glucose and weight of the model rats were examined periodically. Activities of total protein, creatinine, urea, antioxidants (SOD, GSH and GPX), and level of serum insulin were determined. Expression of diabetes related genes including pancreas (Insulin, pdx-1, P16NK4A, and Mki-67), Liver (FAS, ACC, and GFAT) and KIM-1 genes were also determined. Results: Data showed that treatment of STZ-induced diabetic rats with A. occidentale and riboceine at the same dose significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated hyperglycemic effects by improving hepatic and renal functions and antioxidants, preventing hepatic fat accumulation by downregulation of ACC, FAS and GFAT expression, improving ß-cell functions through up-regulation of pancreatic insulin, P16NK4A, Mki-67 and pdx-1 expression. Induction of diabetes upregulated mRNA expression of KIM-1, which was ameliorated after treatment of the rats with A. occidentale and riboceine. Conclusion: The results obtained in this study demonstrate significant antidiabetic properties of ethanolic extract of A. occidentale and riboceine.

Biomechanics in Africa: current state and potential for growth.

The potential of biomechanics for improving human health and performance is well established in many parts of the world. However, across most of Africa, biomechanics remains relatively underdeveloped. The discussion around biomechanics in the continent has increased in recent times and young African scientists are pursuing career opportunities in biomechanics-related fields within Africa and in other parts of the world. New institutions and programmes that focus on biomechanics teaching and research are also starting up around the continent. The advent of the National Biomechanics Day event, formation of the first formal biomechanics society in South Africa, along with many collaborations with relevant stakeholder organizations around the world underpin the expansion of biomechanics in Africa. This article aims to summarize the current state and describe aspirations for the future of biomechanics in Africa.

Divalent Metal Cation Optical Sensing Using Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Corona Phase Molecular Recognition.

Colloidal single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) offer a promising platform for the nanoscale engineering of molecular recognition. Optical sensors have been recently designed through the modification of noncovalent corona phases (CPs) of SWCNTs through a phenomenon known as corona phase molecular recognition (CoPhMoRe). In CoPhMoRe constructs, DNA CPs are of great interest due to the breadth of the design space and our ability to control these molecules with sequence specificity at scale. Utilizing these constructs for metal ion sensing is a natural extension of this technology due to DNA's well-known coordination chemistry. Additionally, understanding metal ion interactions of these constructs allows for improved sensor design for use in complex aqueous environments. In this work, we study the interactions between a panel of 9 dilute divalent metal cations and 35 DNA CPs under the most controlled experimental conditions for SWCNT optical sensing to date. We found that best practices for the study of colloidal SWCNT analyte responses involve mitigating the effects of ionic strength, dilution kinetics, laser power, and analyte response kinetics. We also discover that SWCNT with DNA CPs generally offers two unique sensing states at pH 6 and 8. The combined set of sensors in this work allowed for the differentiation of Hg2+, Pb2+, Cr2+, and Mn2+. Finally, we implemented Hg2+ sensing in the context of portable detection within fish tissue extract, demonstrating nanomolar level detection.

Anthropometric perspective to classroom furniture ergonomics and the need for standards in Nigerian schools.

BACKGROUND: Classroom furniture designs have been implicated in musculoskeletal disorders among school age persons due to high level mismatches between the furniture dimensions and users' anthropometrics. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to analyze classroom furniture ergonomics at selected primary, secondary and tertiary educational institutions in Nigeria and to understand if there are noticeable patterns in the match/mismatch. METHOD: Anthropometric measures relevant to furniture design were obtained from primary and secondary school children as well as from university undergraduates. The dimensions of classroom furniture available to the participants were also taken and an assessment of the suitability of the furniture was completed. RESULT: The ergonomic evaluation of the classroom furniture available to the study participants revealed enormous discrepancies between the furniture dimensions and the anthropometric measures of the users. In addition, a pattern was observed in the way the matches/mismatches occurred. The furniture dimensions that matched majority of the users tend to match across the three categories and those that did not match majority of the students, also followed the same pattern. CONCLUSION: The study presents remarkably high levels of mismatches between classroom furniture and users' anthropometrics and therefore calls for a review of the policies for classroom furniture design in Nigeria, if at all any policy exists.

Long-term exposure to cimetidine induced gonado-toxicity in male rats: Modulating role of Ocimum gratissimum.

BACKGROUND: Available evidence suggests that cimetidine is a reproductive toxicant that induces sexual and testicular dysfunction. Ocimum gratissimum (OG) is globally consumed for medicinal and nutritional purposes. To determine the modulating role of aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum on cimetidine-induced gonado-toxicity, sexually mature male rats were randomized into four groups of six (n=6) rats each. Group A: control given 2ml distilled water. Group B received 500mg/kg body weight (bwt) of OG extract, Group C received 50mg/kg bwt cimetidine, and group D received 50mg/kg bwt of cimetidine+500mg/kg bwt OG extract once daily for 8 weeks via gastric gavage. Parameters tested include sperm parameters, testosterone (TT), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin, testicular alkaline phosphatase (ALP), acid phosphatase (ACP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), protein, cholesterol, glycogen, sexual behavioural parameters, and testicular histology. RESULTS: There were depletions in the seminiferous epithelium, decreased sperm quality, TT, LH, and FSH, testicular enzymes, protein, cholesterol, glycogen, and sexual behaviour increase in animals treated with cimetidine only compared to control. OG restored and improved sexual behaviour and libido as evident from increased frequencies of mount, intromission, ejaculation, and ejaculatory latency. Mount latencies, intromission, post-ejaculation, and prolactin were significantly decreased. The significantly decreased testicular activities of ALP, ACP, LDH and protein, cholesterol, glycogen concentrations, TT, LH and FSH were increased by OG administration. CONCLUSION: Ocimum gratissimum attenuated the deleterious effects of cimetidine on the testis, protected the seminiferous epithelium, restored, and boosted sexual competence, and promoted spermatogenesis.

D-ribose-L-cysteine modulates lead acetate-induced hematobiochemical alterations, hormonal imbalance, and ovarian toxicity in adult female Wistar rats.

Lead is a common environmental toxicant associated greatly with hematological and hormonal imbalance, biochemical alterations, and reproductive abnormalities. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of D-ribose-L-cysteine (DRLC) on hematobiochemical and reproductive toxicity associated with lead acetate exposure in adult female Wistar rats. Thirty-two adult female Wistar rats (165 ± 20 g) were divided into four groups (n = 8). Group A received normal saline as placebo; Group B received 100 mg/kg BW of lead acetate only; Group C received 100 mg/kg BW of lead acetate and 10 mg/kg BW DRLC (low dose); Group D received 100 mg/kg BW of lead acetate and 30 mg/kg BW of DRLC (high dose). All administration was done via oral gavage for 42 days, thereafter animals were sacrificed; serum was obtained from the blood collected for analysis, ovaries, and uterus was harvested for analysis. The lead acetate only group showed a significant difference in hematological indices relative to control. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in body weight, sodium dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, progesterone with a corresponding increase in ovarian weight, MDA, FSH, and LH among the lead acetate only group relative to the control. Histological observation showed atretic antral follicles, with detached granulosa cells, pyknotic nuclei in the granulosa wall in the ovaries of the lead-exposed only group compared to the control. Co-administration of DRLC and lead attenuate the toxicity of lead exposure by restoring the hematological values, biochemical parameters, hormone profile, and morphology of the ovary. Exposure to lead acetate causes deleterious toxicity to hematological and reproductive functions which were ameliorated DRLC supplementation through its antioxidant mechanisms.

Preventive and Restorative Responses of Broccoli Sprouts on Biomechanical Structures, Histomorphometric, and Gene Expression Levels of Degenerated Intervertebral Disc in Rabbit Model.

STUDY DESIGN: Symptomatic disk degeneration is characterized by early pathological changes in the morphological, biochemical, and biomechanical properties of the intervertebral disc (IVD). Several methods that can be used to resolve this condition are being researched. PURPOSE: The present study was designed to examine the preventive and restorative properties of broccoli sprouts extracts in an annular puncture rabbit model of IVD degeneration. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: IVD degeneration is closely associated with low back pain. A degenerated IVD is cytoarchitecturally characterized by a reduction in cell number, morphological changes in the disk tissue, and changes in the extracellular matrix contents. Methods, such as imaging and biochemical characterization, have been used for distinguishing between degenerated disk and non-degenerated disk. METHODS: Twenty New Zealand white rabbits (weighing approximately 2.0-3.5 kg) were divided into four groups (n=5). Group 1 received 50 mg/kg of normal saline solution orally for 4 weeks; group 2 received 50 mg/kg of normal saline solution immediately after puncture for 4 weeks; group 3 received 300 mg/kg of aqueous extract of broccoli sprouts orally immediately after puncture for 4 weeks; and group 4 received 300 mg/kg of aqueous extract of broccoli sprouts after 4 weeks of puncture for another 4 weeks. After the experiment, the disk height index (DHI), histomorphometry, and gene expression level were measured and analyzed. RESULTS: The photomicrograph showed that the histological features of the punctured-treated groups (groups 3 and 4) were more similar to those of the non-punctured group than those of the punctured non-treated group. There was a significant difference in the DHI and relative gene expression levels among the non-treated punctured groups compared with those of the non-punctured and punctured-treated groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that the aqueous extract of broccoli sprouts exerts preventive and restorative effects in a rabbit model with disk degeneration.

Tiger nut: Antidote for alcohol-induced testicular toxicity in male Sprague-Dawley rats.

OBJECTIVE: Studies have implicated alcohol consumption as a factor leading to male infertility. Tiger nuts (Cyperus esculentus) on the other hand, have been shown to possess the potential to boost male reproductive indices. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of tiger nuts on alcohol-induced testicular toxicity in male Sprague-Dawley rats. METHODS: Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats (160g averagely) were divided into six groups (A-F) (n=5). Group A (Control) received distilled water only; Group B (Tiger nut alone) received 1.8 g/kg body weight (BW) tiger nut; Groups C-F received 1 ml of 30% v/v alcohol three times weekly but groups C-E, also, received varied doses of tiger nut (0.6, 1.2 and 1.8 g/kg) (low, medium and high doses, respectively). All administrations were by oral gavage for 8 weeks. Serum was obtained and assayed for FSH, LH, and testosterone. Sperm was analyzed for semen parameters, and vitamins C and E contents. The testes were analyzed for antioxidants and histomorphology. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in body and testicular weights, semen characteristics with altered contents of vitamins C and E, hormone profiles, and testicular morphology in alcohol-exposed rats when compared with the control animals. However, the administration of tiger nuts improved the testicular architecture, semen parameters, and antioxidant enzymes in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with tiger nuts following alcohol administration produces a reversal of the deleterious effect of alcohol on the testis in a dose-dependent manner.

Aqueous extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit peels influence copulatory behavior and maintain testicular integrity in sexually mature male Sprague-Dawley rats: Pro-fertility evaluation and histomorphometry evidence.

Tetrapleura tetraptera (TT) has been used as a spice, dietary supplement and medicine for various ailments. This study evaluate influence of Tetrapleura tetraptera extract on testis and copulatory behavior in sexually mature male rats. Thirty-two male and sixty-four virgin female rats weighing 150-200 g were used for this study. Male rats randomly divided into four groups of eight (n = 8) rats each. Group A: Control given 2 ml distilled water, group B, C and D received 50, 300 and 700 mg/kg bwt TT for 56 days through oral gavage. The female rats were used for fertility test. Testicular histology, histomorphology, copulatory behavior, sperm parameters, testosterone (TET), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and fertility test were investigated. Tetrapleura tetraptera significantly increase sperm count, motility, normal morphology, daily sperm production, efficiency of sperm production, sperm (average path velocity, straight line velocity and curvilinear velocity), TET, LH, FHS, SOD, GPx, CAT, number of pregnant females, number of fetuses, seminiferous diameter, epithelium thickness and decrease abnormal morphology, seminiferous height, tubule lumen and MDA across the group as compared with control group. Improved testicular histological integrity, sexual behaviour and libido by increased frequencies of mount, intromission, ejaculation and ejaculatory latency. Latencies of mount, intromission and post-ejaculation were significantly reduced. Also, observed increase spermatocytes and spermatids showed no significant difference in spermatogonia cell counts. Tetrapleura tetraptera therefore, enhance steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and improved testicular histological integrity and boost sexual competence in male rats.

Ameliorating potential and fertility enhancing activities of nutritional dietary supplementation of D-Ribose -l-Cysteine in cisplatin induced oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and seminiferous epithelium degeneration in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats.

BACKGROUND: Cisplatin (CN) is considered as a cytotoxic agent and DNA synthesis inhibitor. D-Ribose-l-Cysteine (DRLC) is an active ingredient of riboceine, help cells to produce glutathione on body demand. AIM: Current study focused on ameliorating potential and fertility enhancing activities of D-Ribose-l-Cysteine in cisplatin induced oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and seminiferous epithelium degeneration. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Sixty (60) male rats randomized into six groups of ten (n = 10) rats each. Group A (control) received 2.0 ml distilled water, group B received single dose of 8 mg/kg bwt CN, group C received 30 mg/kg bwt DRLC, group D received single dose of 8 mg/kg CN follow by 30 mg/kg bwt DRLC, group E received single dose of 8 mg/kg CN and vitamin C, group F received single dose of 8 mg/kg cisplatin follow by DRLC + Vit.C for 56 days. Parameters tested include: Sperm parameters, testosterone (TT), luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating Hormone, (FSH), Prolactin, and testicular 17ß-HSD activity, Blood hydroperoxide (BHP), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione (GSH) and Catalase (CAT), testicular histology and fertility test. RESULTS: Cisplatin significantly reduced testicular volume, body weight, sperm quality, fertility indices, TT, FSH, LH, 17ß-HSD, SOD, GSH, CAT, diameter and cross-sectional area of seminiferous tubules, spermatogenesis score. And elevate prolactin, testicular injury score, BHP and MDA compared with control group. Cisplatin only treated rats showed degenerated seminiferous epithelium with empty lumen. Intervention of D-Ribose-Cysteine ameliorated toxic impacts of CN on testis and improved the male fertility. CONCLUSION: D-Ribose-l-Cysteine therefore, preserves testicular integrity and functions thereby, preventing the deleterious impact of CN.

Fluoride-induced testicular degeneration and sperm quality deteriorations: Salutary role of Cyperus esculentus tubers (tiger nut) extract in animal model.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic exposure to fluoride causes tissue damage induced by oxidative imbalance, Cyperus esculentus (CE) possess anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory properties. This study focused on Salutary role of Cyperus esculentus in sodium fluoride (NaF) induced testicular degeneration and sperm quality deteriorations. METHODS: Sexually mature male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=6). Animals in control group received 2 mls of normal saline per day; CE group received 500mg/kg bw of CE; NaF group received 5mg/kg bw of NaF; NaF+CE group received 500mg/kg bw of CE (for 14 days pre-treatment) and NaF co-treatment till 56 days via gastric gavage. Parameters tested include: testicular histology, sperm parameters, sex hormone, fertility test, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), testicular fluoride and testicular cholesterol. RESULTS: Sodium fluoride significantly (p<.05) decrease testicular antioxidant (SOD, CAT, GSH and GPx), sperm quality, hormone profiles (TT, FSH, LH, estrogen levels), testicular cholesterol, morphometric parameters, Johnsen's Score and number of implantations in female rats with corresponding (p<.05) increase in oxidative stress makers and abnormal sperm morphology. Also depleted seminiferous epithelium and degenerate spermatogenic cells. Pretreatment with 500mg/kg bw of CE lowered NaF toxicity by significantly reducing the lipid peroxidation products, fluoride accumulation in the testis, histopathological changes of the testes and spermatozoa abnormalities and reverted observed NaF-induced inhibition in antioxidant parameters and weight of accessory sex organs. CONCLUSIONS: Cyperus esculentus attenuated NaF-induced testicular injuries and protected the seminiferous epithelium, reduced oxidative stress and promoted spermatogenesis.

Sulforaphane response on aluminum-induced oxidative stress, alterations in sperm characterization and testicular histomorphometry in Wistar rats.

BACKGROUND: The exposure of male individual to environmental toxicant is regarded as a channel that results in reduced sperm counts and infertility. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the ameliorative response of Sulforaphane (SFN) on Aluminum trichloride (AlCl 3 ) induced testicular toxicity in adult male Wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 32 adult male Wistar rats (180-200 gm between 8-10 wk) were divided into four groups (n = 8/each). Group A) received distilled water orally as placebo; Group B) received 100 mg/kgbw AlCl 3 only orally; Group C) received 100 mg/kgbw AlCl 3 and 100 mg/kgbw SFN orally; and Group D) received 100 mg/kgbw SFN only orally. After 28 days of experiment, animals underwent cervical dislocation, blood serum was obtained for analysis, and testes were harvested for biochemical assays, histology, hormonal profile, and sperm characterization. RESULTS: The sperm parameters showed a significant difference within the AlCl 3 only group compared with the control and SFN only groups (p = 0.02). However, AlCl 3 and SFN co-treatment showed improvement in the motility, viability, and sperm count compared with the AlCl 3 only group (p = 0.02). Furthermore, there was a significant decline in the levels of hormones profile and antioxidant status in AlCl 3 only group compared to the control and SFN only (p = 0.02). The testicular histoarchitecture of the AlCl 3 only group showed shrinkage of seminiferous tubules, spermatogenesis disruption, and empty lumen compared to the control and SFN only groups. CONCLUSION: The present study revealed the ameliorative response of SFN on AlCl 3 -induced testicular toxicity on serum hormone profiles, antioxidant status, lipid peroxidation, and histomorphometric analysis through oxidative stress.

Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Lawsonia inermis on Aluminum-induced Oxidative Stress and Adult Wistar Rat Pituitary Gland Histology.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant effect of aqueous Lawsonia inermis leaf extract on aluminum-induced oxidative stress and the histology of the pituitary gland of adult Wistar rats. METHODS: Thirty-five adult male Wistar rats weighing between 100-196g and 15 mice of the same weight range were included in the study. Lawsonia inermis extracts and aluminum chloride (AlCl3) were administered for a period of three weeks to five rats per group. The subjects in Group 1 (control) were given pellets and distilled water. Group 2 received 60mg/kg/d of aqueous extract of Lawsonia inermis. Group 3 was given 0.5mg/kg/d of AlCl3. Group 4 was administered 0.5mg/kg/d of AlCl3 and 60mg/kg/d of aqueous Lawsonia inermis extract orally. Group 5 received 0.5mg/kg/d of AlCl3 and 75mg/kg/d of aqueous Lawsonia inermis extract orally. Group 6 was given 0.5mg/kg/d of AlCl3 and 100mg/kg/d of aqueous Lawsonia inermis extract orally. Group 7 was administered 0.5mg/k/d of AlCl3 and 5mg/Kg/d ascorbic acid in distilled water orally. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, the animals were weighed, sedated with chloroform, and had their pituitary glands located, removed, and weighed on an electronic analytical balance. RESULTS: Decreased cell counts were observed in the pituitary gland micrographs of the Wistar rats given 0.5mg of aluminum chloride, whereas the Wistar rats given 0.5mg of aluminum chloride and varying doses of Lawsonia inermis had increased dose-dependent cell counts. CONCLUSION: Aqeuous Lawsonia Inermis leaf extract increased the cell counts of the pituitary glands of adult male Wistar rats, in addition to alleviating aluminum-induced oxidative stress.

Nitrite-induced testicular toxicity in rats: therapeutic potential of walnut oil.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the impact of walnut oil on nitrite-induced testicular toxicity in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Available evidence suggests that walnut oil contains high levels of important unsaturated fatty acids including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and omega-3; nitrite is a reproductive toxicant that causes the loss of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules and generates oxidative stress in the testes, thus reducing sperm counts and affecting sperm morphology. METHODS: This study included 24 male and 24 female adult SD rats. The male rats randomly assigned to Group A (controls) were given normal saline 2 ml/kg. The rats in Groups B, C, and D were given 50mg/kg body weight (bwt) of walnut oil, 0.08 mg/kg bwt of nitrite, and 0.08 mg/kg bwt of nitrite + 50 mg/kg of walnut oil respectively for 28 days via gastric gavage. Tested parameters included: testicular histology, sperm parameters, reproductive hormones, fertility, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione, and catalase (CAT). RESULTS: A severe decrease in spermatogenic cell series, hypocellularity, tubular atrophy, decreased sperm quality, and increased MDA levels were observed in the rats given nitrite only when compared to controls. Rats given 50 mg/kg of walnut oil had significant growth of seminiferous epithelium compared to controls. The rats given walnut oil and nitrite had significant growth of seminiferous epithelium, improved sperm quality, and had decreased MDA levels. CONCLUSION: Walnut oil attenuated the deleterious effects of nitrite to the testes, reduced oxidative stress, and promoted spermatogenesis.

Histomorphology, Sperm Quality and Hormonal Profile in Adult Male Sprague-Dawley Rats following administration of aqueous crude Extract of Solanum nigrum by gastric gavage.

OBJECTIVE: The present study focused on histomorphology, sperm quality, hormonal profile and hematological parameters in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats following the administration of aqueous crude extract of Solanum nigrum by gastric gavage. METHODS: Fourty healthy male adult (12-14 weeks old) Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-220g were randomly divided into four groups (A,B,C and D) of ten (n=10) rats each. Group A which served as control were given distilled water 2ml/kg b.wt each, daily for 28 days. Group B, C and D rats were administered 100, 300 and 500mg/kg b.wt each daily respectively for 28 days. The extract was saved with LD50 >5000mg/Kg. Sperm counts, percentage motility, morphology and percentage live sperm, hormonal profile and hematological parameter were quantified; testis, epididymal and general body weights were measured using a weighing scale. The extract was administered once daily for six days within a week via oral gavage. After the last administration, all rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, the testis were harvested and fixed in Bouin's fluid for histology processing. RESULTS: Our results revealed an increase in sperm counts, percentage of motility, morphology and percentage of live sperm, blood level of follicle stimulating hormone, Luteinizing hormone and testosterone, hematological parameters, testis, epididymal and general body weights across the groups in a dose-depentant manner. The testis histoarchtecture showed normal cellular composition in their germinal epithelium, with sperm cells in the lumen and a normal interstitium. CONCLUSION: This experiment revealed that aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum bears profertility properties which may be beneficial to those who consume it.

Role of Aqueous Crude Leaf Extract of Senecio Biafrae Combined With Zinc on Testicular Function of Adult Male Sprague Dawley Rats.

Objective: To determine the role of aqueous crude leaf extract of Seneciobiafrae (SB) combined with Zinc (Zn) on Testicular function of Adult Male Sprague dawley Rats. Materials and methods: Twenty-four adult males praguedawley Rats weighing 180-200g, aged 10-12 weeks, were randomized into four groups (A,B,C,D) of six rats each (n = 6) and were given 2mls of distilled water; 500 mg/kg of SB ; 500 mg/kg of SB and 0.5 mg/kg Znsulfate; 500 mg/kg of SB and 1mg/kg of Zn. The administration was done daily via gastric gavage for 28 days. Parameterstested include: testicular histology, sperm parameters, haematological parameters and Testosterone assay. Results: There was observed no significant (p > 0.05) increased in testis, epididymal, seminal vesicle, vas deference and prostate gland weight of animals across the group receiving the Seneciobiafrae extract combine with Zn. Testis and serum testosterone levels, sperm count, percentage of sperm viability and motility was higher in the rats administered a combination of Senecio biafrae extract and Zn compared with controls (p < 0.05). Conversely the percentage of abnormal sperm morphology was decreased (p < 0.05). Histological analysis showed normal spermatogenesis, better association and high density of spermatogenic cells and lumen contains full mature spermatozoa. Conclusion: Aqueous extract of Seneciobiafrae combined with Zn, potentially enhance testicular function including steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in male rats.