Chloroform Inhalation Research Articles

Portulaca oleracea (purslane) aqueous extract reduced the adverse metabolic outcomes and favored liraglutide activities in streptozotocin-induced cardiometabolic disorders of male Wistar rats

Cardiometabolic diseases including Diabetes mellitus accounts >400 million deaths globally. Portulaca oleracea (Purslane) noted for its rich antioxidants, is a perennial herbaceous plant widely cultivated across countries. This study aimed to determine the ameliorative effect of ethanolic extract of Portulaca oleracea (EPO) on cardiometabolic diseases of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male Wistar rats. Twenty-five male Wistar rats weighing between 120 and 150 g were randomly distributed into five groups and treated respectively as; Control (CTR): normal chow + vehicle (normal saline; orally), EPO; 400 mg/kg orally, STZ; 60 mg/kg intraperitoneally + vehicle, (STZ; 60 mg/kg + EPO; 400 mg/kg orally), STZ+ EPO+ Liraglutide (LG); 0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously. After four weeks, animals were anesthetized by 1 % chloroform inhalation for 5 min (5.0 ppm) and blood was collected by cardiac puncture. Plasma, cardiac and adipose tissue homogenate were analyzed, and data expressed as mean ± SEM; p < 0.05 were accepted as significant. The diabetic rats showed decreased body weight, reduced blood glucose and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), adipose mass, insulin (p < 0.05). Portulaca oleracea resulted in reduced plasma fasting blood glucose (FBG), interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF- α) and increased pancreatic beta cell functions (HOMA-B) compared to the diabetic rats (p < 0.05). Also, plasma AMPK, insulin and glutathione (GSH) increased in the purslane, and liraglutide treated (p < 0.05), which is a known glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist. In conclusion, purslane possess GLP-1R agonist activities and improved glucometabolic activities and this presents a great advantage in the management of cardiovascular risks associated with diabetes.

Ameliorating effect of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) on the pancreas of alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Objective: This research work was carried out to investigate the effect of Nutmeg on the histology of pancreas of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methodology: Twenty-five Wistar rats weighing 150 g – 180 g were purchased and acclimatized for two weeks. Thereafter, they were divided into five groups designated as A – E with five rats each. Group A serve as the control group, while groups B – C served as the experimental group, and were induced with alloxan. Group A received distilled water only, while groups B – C received Glucophage, 400 mg/kg of Nutmeg and 800 mg/kg of Nutmeg daily for 21 days through orogastric tube. On the 22nd day, the animals were sacrificed via chloroform inhalation, and pancreas were harvested from the rats for histological study. Results: Histopathological findings revealed normal well perfused pancreatic tissue with active Islets of Langerhans (IL), pancreatic acini (PA) and well out-lined acini cells (AC); poorly perfused pancreatic tissue with severe focal areas of Islets of the Langerhans atrophy and severe dissolution of acini; moderate necrotic (N) and pale appearance of the pancreatic acini in R1 however the Islets of the Langerhans in both sections are moderately normal; mild necrotic (N) and pale appearance of the pancreatic acini with mild aggregation of inflammatory cells (AIC); and mild aggregation of inflammatory cells (AIC) with active Islets of the Langerhans (IL) respectively for groups A – E. Conclusion: Nutmeg extract has ameliorating effect on the histology of the pancreas of alloxan-induced rats which improves with increase in the dosages of the extract.

Impact of Short-Term Arsenic Exposure on Hormonal Balance and Fibrosis in Sprague Dawley Rats

Objective: To evaluate the toxic effects of arsenic exposure on the female reproductive tract and endocrinesystem.Study Design: A laboratory-based experiment.Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Laboratory of the National Institute of Health(NIH) Islamabad, Pakistan from 1st January 2019 to 4th January 2020.Methods: non-probability convenient sampling technique was employed and 60 female healthy SpragueDawley rats were included in the study at the National Institute Islamabad. Animals were randomly allocatedinto control and experimental groups (n=30 each). In the first week, animals were acclimatized to the animalhouse of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan. In the second week, the control and experimentalgroups were given 10 ml of distilled water by oral gavage daily and 4μg of sodium arsenite dissolved in 10 ml ofdistilled water daily for two weeks respectively. After the experimental period, animals were taken to theanimal lab of the National Institute of Health Islamabad for blood sampling and tissue dissection. Rats wereeuthanized by chloroform inhalation and blood was drawn by single intracardiac puncture and stored in clotactivator vials at 4 0C for further workup. The female reproductive tract was dissected, and the tissue was stored in 10 % formalin for histological studies. Serum Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) levels were assessed via the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. Whereas histological effects of arsenic were observed under a microscope by tissue processing and staining with Masson trichrome stain. Mean ± SD of serum GnRH levels and percentage of fibrosis in uterine tissue of control and experimental groups wereevaluated by the software Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0. Comparison of means evaluatedby Student T-test. The significant p-value was ≤ 0.05.Results: The experimental group showed significant elevation of serum GnRH levels and fibrotic changes withhigh collagen deposition (p ≤ 0.05).Conclusion: Exposure to arsenic via contaminated drinking water is disruptive for the female reproductive tractand endocrine system. How to cite this: Mir A, Mir UZ, Hussain W, Irfan A, Butt HA, Sarwar U. Impact of Short-Term Arsenic Exposure on Hormonal Balance and Fibrosis in Sprague Dawley Rats. Life and Science. 2024; 5(2): 187-192. doi: http://doi.org/10.37185/LnS.1.1.64

Ameliorating Effects of Arsenic-Induced Toxicity On The Histology Of Vagina And Reproductive Hormones Of Female Sprague Dawley Rats

Objective: To find out the toxic effects of arsenic on the histology of the vagina and reproductive hormones of female Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: 60 female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control group A and experimental group B with 30 rats in each group. The gross weight of all the rats was checked before and at the end of the experiment. After one week of acclimatization, the control group was administered 10ml of distilled water by oral gavage daily for 14 days and the experimental group was administered 4µg of sodium arsenite dissolved in 10ml of distilled water by oral gavage daily for 14 days. After being euthanized by chloroform inhalation on day 15, blood from each rat was drawn by a single intra-cardiac puncture and stored for biochemical analysis. After that, rats were sacrificed and the whole reproductive tract was removed and vaginal sections were prepared and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&amp;E ). The histological parameters were analyzed by using Image J software. Whereas, biochemical parameters e.g. serum LH and FSH levels were analyzed by ELISA. Results: After exposure to a low dose of arsenic administered for a short period, the gross weight of rats, weight of reproductive tract, height of vaginal epithelium and serum FSH and LH values were significantly reduced in experimental animals as compared to control animals with p-value &lt; 0.05. Conclusion: Low dose of arsenic given via contaminated drinking water for a short period is very toxic to the female reproductive tract which is evident by the histological changes in the vagina and deranged hormonal profile of female Sprague Dawley rats. Keywords: Arsenic, FSH, Free radicals, LH, Oxidative stress, Vagina.

The Effect of Feeding Non-Antioxidant Feed on The Degree of Dysplasia in Formaldehyde-Induced Wistar Rats

Nasopharyngeal dysplasia is a condition of abnormal cellular growth that occurs due to the failure of nasopharyngeal epithelial cells in carrying out cellular adaptation. This condition can occur due to the continuous inhalation of toxic compounds, such as formaldehyde, which has genotoxic and cytotoxic effects that can induce cellular damage. One of the compound activity associated with reducing risk of dysplasia is antioxidant activity. Therefore, it is important to know whether the presence of antioxidant activity affects the occurrence of dysplasia. This study is an experimental study with a post-test only control group design which aims to determine the effect of Non-Antioxidant Feed on the occurrence of nasopharyngeal dysplasia. Testing of the antioxidant activity in feed was carried out using the DPPH assay. There were two groups of experimental animals including the treatment group (fed with Non-Antioxidant Feed) and the control group (fed with SB 11). All animals in each group were induced with 40 ppm formaldehyde by inhalation for 8 weeks and then euthanized using chloroform inhalation for nasopharyngeal tissue extraction. The results of the histopathological examination of the two groups were then statistically tested using the Mann-Whitney U test and obtained a value of P&lt;0.05 (P=0.006), which means that there are effect of feeding Non-Antioxidants Feed on the degree of dysplasia in formaldehyde-induced wistar rats. The results can be associated with the ingredients contained in the feed given, differences in genetic polymorphisms of each subjects, and effect of body weight variations of the rats caused by randomization.

Drug-facilitated sexual assault followed by femicidal chloroform poisoning and suffocation: A case-report of criminal responsibility

IntroductionCriminal responsibility evaluation represents one of the most controversial and debated issues in forensic psychiatry. Although clear procedures have been recommended, little research exists on decision-making process by forensic psychiatrists. We present a case assessing the criminal responsibility of a murderer who committed femicide as a result of chloroform poisoning and suffocation after a drug-facilitated sexual assault. Materials and methodsA.S., a 30-year-old female, was found dead in the home of S.P., a 50-year-old male. S.P. recounted killing A.S. by forced inhalation of chloroform, when the woman had experienced sensory clouding following unintentional ingestion of Zolpidem, a hypnotic agent. A multidisciplinary approach was taken to resolve the case. Autopsy, histological, genetic, and toxicological examinations were performed by a forensic pathologist, while a digital forensic examiner analysed electronic devices. A pool of three forensic psychiatrists and two psychologists was asked to assess the mental state of S.P. at the time of the crime. Results and conclusionsThe cause of death of A.S. was identified as a lethal chloroform intoxication in altered consciousness caused by Zolpidem, while homicidal suffocation was also described. Mobile forensics demonstrated that S.P. had videotaped the crime scene, clearly revealing that A.S. had been sexually assaulted by S.P. before dying. Criminal responsibility of S.P. was evaluated through various psychological tests and seven interviews with the accused, each lasting an average of 180 min. Specialists concluded that S.P. could not be exempted from being responsible for the homicide.

Ameliorating effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Telfairia occidentalis on the histology of livers of lead-induced rats

Objective: This research study was carried out to investigate the ameliorating effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Telfairia occendentalis on the histology of livers of lead-induced rats. Methodology: Twenty-five (25) male wistar rats weighing 150 - 180 g were procured and acclimatized for two weeks, after which, they were divided into five (5) groups of five (5) rats each, and were housed in cages. The groups were designated as groups A - E. Group A served as the control group and was not induced with lead (Pb), while Groups B – E were induced. Group A received distilled water only, Groups B - E received vitamin C, vitamin C + 100 mg/kg of ethanolic leaf extract T. occendentalis, vitamin C + 400 mg/kg ethanolic leaf extract of T. occendentalis and vitamin C + 800 mg/kg ethanolic leaf extract of T. occendentalis respectively for 14 days through oral route with the aid of oral gastric tube. On the 15th day, the animals were weighed and sacrificed via chloroform inhalation, and kidneys were harvested from the rats for histological study. Results: Histopathological findings showed normal liver architecture with well perfused normal hepatic architecture with central vein (CV), hepatocyte (H) and portal traid (PT) for animals in group A; moderate degeneration with moderate congestion of blood vessel (CBV) with aggregate inflammatory cell (AIC) around the congested vessel and intra hepatic inflammation (IHI) for animals in group B; mild regeneration with moderate congestion of blood vessel (CBV) with moderate intra hepatic hemorrhage (IHH) and intra hepatic inflammation (IHI) for animals in group C; moderate regeneration with mild congestion of portal vain (CPV) with portal aggregate inflammatory cell (AIC) and mild intra hepatic inflammation (IHI) for animals in group D; and moderate regeneration with mild congestion of portal vain (CPV) with portal aggregate inflammatory cell (PAIC) for animals in group E. Conclusion: Ethanolic leaf extract of T. occendentalis have ameliorating effect on the histology of Livers of lead-induced rats, and the ameliorating effect improves with increase in the dosages of the leaf extract.

Effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Mucuna pruriens (velvet bean) on the pancreas and pituitary gland of alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Objective: This study was carried out to find out the effects of ethanolic leaf extract of Mucuna pruriens on the pancreas and pituitary gland alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methodology: Twenty-five (25) male rats weighing between 160 g - 200 g were purchased and acclimatized for two weeks, after which they were divided into 7 groups of 5 rats each and housed in cages. The groups were designated as groups A, B, C, D and E. Groups B - E were induced with diabetes using alloxan. Groups A and B served as control groups and received only distilled water; while groups C – D diabetic that served as test groups received Glucophage, 400 mg/kg of M. pruriens and 800 mg/kg of M. pruriens respectively for 21 days via oral route with the aid of oral intubation tube. On the 22nd day, the animals were sacrificed via chloroform inhalation, and testes were harvested for histological studies. Result: There were poorly perfused pancreatic tissue with severe focal areas of Islets of Langerhans atrophy, and moderate to severe degeneration with necrosis of the anterior pituitary, severe scanty cytoplasm with either eosinophil or basophilic focal loss of tissues of the pancreas and pituitary gland respectively in group B when compared with the control group A and group C that received water and Glucophage respectively. These effects were ameliorated in Groups C - D that received variable doses of the ethanolic leaf extracts of M. prurines. Conclusion: Leaf extracts of M. pruriens have ameliorating/antidiabetic effect on the histology of pancreas and pituitary gland of alloxan-induced rats.

Uricosuric effect of dandelion root extract on oxonate-induced hyperuricemia in rats

This research aimed to investigate the uricosuric effect of dandelion plant extracts in hyperuricemic rats induced by potassium oxonate (PO).&#x0D; Methods. Hyperuricemia was induced in rats using PO, and dandelion root extracts were administered to observe their impact on uric acid (UA) levels. The study involved adult male Swiss rats weighing approximately 150–180 grams, randomly divided into five groups (n = 6). Group 1 served as the normal control group with no treatment. Group 2 received PO only. Group 3 received oral administration of 50 mg/kg of dandelion extract in 0.5 ml of distilled water (DW) daily. Group 4 was orally administered 100 mg/kg of dandelion powder in 0.5 ml of DW daily. Group 5 was orally treated with allopurinol.&#x0D; After 12 days, the rats were euthanized using chloroform inhalation, and their sera were collected directly from the heart for biochemical analysis of serum UA, urinary uric acid (UUA), as well as other liver and renal biochemical parameters.&#x0D; Results. The study revealed that hyperuricemic rats treated with the dandelion solution experienced a significant decrease in blood UA levels and a significant increase in UUA levels. Dandelion treatment also influenced xanthine oxidase activity, with no significant differences observed in liver and kidney functions.&#x0D; Conclusion. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that dandelion extract significantly reduces UA levels through uricosuric activity and demonstrates significant XO inhibitory effects.

Some histological and biochemical evaluation on commercial hair dyes

The use of hair dyes as a means of beautification is currently increasing. This study aimed at evaluating the toxicity of different commercial hair dyes on the histology of the skin and biochemical parameters of the liver of Albino rats. This study was carried out in the Pathology Department, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Calabar and College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar between May, 2019 and October, 2019. Four different colours of hair dyes were obtained from a cosmetic store in Watt daily market in Calabar, Cross River State. Twenty male Albino rats with average weight of 55g were used for this study. The rats were randomly divided into five (5) groups of four (4) rats each. Group 1 to 4 served as the test groups while group 5 served as the control group. Different colours of hair dye were applied topically on selected area of the back of Albino rats daily for 30 days after which, the rats were sacrificed using chloroform inhalation procedure. The skin of the rat was harvested for histology while heart puncture was used to collect 5 milliliters of blood from each rat for biochemical analysis. Plasma Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was determined using Kind and King's method. Plasma Alanine amino transferase (ALT) and Aspartate Amino transferase (AST) were determined by Reitman and Frankel method. Serum protein (TP) was determined by Biurette's method while bilirubin was estimated using Powell's method. Liver tissues were processed using routine paraffin wax tissue processing method for histological analysis. The serum levels of ALP, AST, TP, Total bilirubin (TB) and conjugated bilirubin (CB) in all the test groups were significantly increased when compared with the control (P=0.001). Histological evaluations indicated evidence of cellular injury in all the test groups. Prolonged use of commercial hair dyes caused adverse effects to the skin and liver as seen in the Albino rat used in this study.

Experimental induction of delay union in femur bone fracture and itseffect on the adjacent skeletal muscles

Bone fracture and its healing process have been extensively investigated for many years. in this stady bone delayed .union and its effect on the adjacent muscle was investigated. Ten local breed adult rabbits of both sexes weighing 1200-1500 g were used in the experiment. All animals were undergoing surgical operations to induce a transverse closed fracture in the midshaft of the femur, All animals were survived for five months' and then killed using high dose inhalation of chloroform inside glass box. The surgical procedures were made under (general anesthesia) of 50mg/kg Ketamin hydrochloride. A 5 cm longitudinal incision was made on the lateral side of the right thigh. the fractured bone were fixed using intramedullary fixati.on). Approximate the two fragments and a gap of about 2.5-3 mm length was left to prevent normal bone union. The length and weight of each muscle were measured. Comparison between right and left side for both weight and length was made. A specimen from the muscles of anterior group of thigh (i.e. Rectus femoris), posterior group of thigh (i.e. biceps femoris), anterior group of leg (i.e.tibialis anterior), and posterior group of leg (i.e. soleus) for both right and left was taken. Sample also from fracture site was taken. Staining of sections using Haematoxylin and eosin.the result revealed a significant decrease in muscle fibers weight and diameters. It was concluded that the delay in bone healing reflected on recovery of the weight and diameter of adjacent skeletal muscle fibers.

A Comparative Study of the Cytohistomorphological and Biochemical Effect of Alcoholic Beverages (Brandy, Beer, Sour Wine, Dry Gin) on the Testes of Adult Male Wistar Rats

This study was designed to evaluate the cytohistomorphological and biochemical effect of alcoholic beverages on the prostate gland of adult male Wistar rats. Sixty-five (65) rats weighing between 180-230g were used for this experiment. They were randomly divided into 13 groups of five (5) animals each. Group 1 was the normal control. Group 2-13 were the experiment groups. Group 2, 3 and 4 were treated with 1.23mg/kg, 2.45mg/kg and 3.68mg/kg bodyweight of brandy respectively. Group 5, 6 and 7 were treated with 17.32mg/kg, 34.64mg/kg and 51.96mg/kg body weight of beer respectively. Group 8, 9 and 10 were treated with 12.25mg/kg, 24.96mg/kg and 36.74mg/kg bodyweight of soured wine respectively. Group 11, 12 and 13 were treated with 1.73mg/kg, 3.46mg/kg and 5.20mg/kg bodyweight of dry gin respectively. Administration was done daily for 28 days and orally using orogastric tube. On the 29th day, the animals were sacrificed using chloroform inhalation anaesthesia. The blood samples were aspirated via cardiac puncture and centrifuged for biochemical analysis, and testicular tissues were harvested, fixed in 10% buffered formalin, processed, and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Body weight showed significant (p&lt;0.05) increase in brandy administered groups compared to control. For testicular weight, there was an insignificant increase in all the treated groups except the group administered with 3.69mg/kg which showed insignificant decrease compared to control. Results for TT showed a general significant (p&lt;0.001) decrease in all administered groups compared to control. FSH showed significant (p&lt;0.05;0.01;0.001) decrease in group administered 3.69mg/kg of brandy, all administered groups of soured wine and group administered 5.20mg/kg of dry gin compared to control. Histology showed narrowed and elongated lumen of seminiferous tubule, hypertrophied sertoli cells, destroyed interstitial cells of leydig, distorted seminiferous tubules with degenerating spermatogenic cells in the administered groups compared to control. In conclusion, alcohol beverages pose adverse effects on the testes. KEYWORDS: Alcoholic Beverages, Testes, Histology, Testosterone, FSH.

Combined effect of ethanolic leaf extracts of Carica papaya and Newbouldia laevis on the histology of testes of Alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the combined effect of ethanolic leaf extracts of C. papaya and N. laevis on the histology of testes of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methodology: Forty male wistar rats weighing 150 -180 g were procured, acclimatized for two weeks, after which were divided into eight groups of five rats each, and housed in cages. The groups were designated as groups A - H. Group A served as the control group, and received distilled water only. Animals in groups B – H were induced with diabetes using alloxan. Diabetic group B received no treatment throughout the experiment, while the diabetic groups C - H received 400 mg/kg of C. papaya leaf extract, 600 mg/kg of C. papaya leaf extract, 400 mg/kg of N. laevis leaf extract, 600 mg/kg of N. laevis leaf extract, 200 mg/kg of C. papaya + 200 mg/kg of N. laevis , 300 mg/kg of C. papaya + 300 mg/kg of N. laevis leaf extract respectively for 21 days via oral route with the aid of oral gastric tube. On the 22nd day, the animals were sacrificed via chloroform inhalation, and testes were harvested for histological studies. Result: Histopathological findings showed moderate spermatogenic arrest with interstitial hemorrhage (H) within the basal layer; mild regeneration with moderate spermatogenic arrest (SA), moderate vacoulation (V) of the sertoli cells and interstitial hemorrhage (IH); moderate regeneration with mild spermatogenic arrest (SA), mild vacoulation (V) of the sertoli cells and moderate interstitial hemorrhage (IH); moderate regeneration with active seminiferous tubules, and well enhanced spermatogenesis though there were mild pyknotic (P) appearance of the sertolli cells in some areas and interstitial hemorrhage; mild regeneration with moderate atrophy (A) of the seminiferous tubules, mild arrest of the spermatogenesis (SA) and interstitial hemorrhage (IH); moderate healing with disorganization of the seminiferous tubules and interstitial fibrosis (IF); and moderate healing with distortion (D) of the seminiferous tubules, interstitial fibrosis (IF) and mild arrest of the spermatogenesis (AS) on the histology of testes in groups B - H that received variable doses of C. papaya and N. laevis leaf extracts respectively. Conclusion: Combined leaf extracts of Carica papaya and Newbouldia laevis leaf extracts have antidiabetic and ameliorating effects on the histology of testes of alloxan induced wistar rats.

Effect of Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Telfairia occidentalis on the Histology of Kidneys of Lead-Induced Wistar Rats

Objective: This research study was carried out to investigate the effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Telfairia occendentalis on the histology of kidneys of lead-induced wistar rats. Methodology: Twenty-five (25) male wistar rats weighing 150-180g were procured and acclimatized for two weeks, after which, they were divided into five (5) groups of five (5) rats each, and were housed in cages. The groups were designated as groups A – E. Group A served as the control group and was not induced with lead (Pb), while Groups B – E were induced. Groups A received distilled water only, Groups B – E received vitamin C, vitamin C + 100mg/kg of ethanolic leaf extract Telfairia occendentalis, vitamin C + 400mg/kg ethanolic leaf extract of Telfairia occendentalis and vitamin C + 800mg/kg ethanolic leaf extract of Telfairia occendentalis respectively for 14 days through oral route with the aid of oral gastric tube. On the 15th day, the animals were weighed and sacrificed via chloroform inhalation, and kidneys were harvested from the rats for histological study. Results: Histopathological findings showed normal renal architecture with glomeruli (G), renal tubules (RT), tubular cells (TC), and normal cuboidal epithelial cells(CEC) within the medullar for animals in group A; moderate degeneration with moderate fatty changes (FC), moderate intra renal hemorrhage (IRH), and moderate renal inflammation (IRI) for animals in group B; mild regeneration with moderate fatty changes (FC), tubular atrophy (TA), and moderate renal inflammation (IRI) for animals in group C; moderate regeneration with mild fatty changes (FC), and mild renal inflammation (IRI) for animals in group D; and moderate regeneration with mild fatty changes (FC) otherwise normal with well outlined tubular cells (TC) for animals in group E. Conclusion: Ethanolic leaf extract of Telfaria occendentalis have ameliorating effect on the histology of kidneys of lead-induced wistar rats, and the ameliorating effect improves with increase in the dosages of the leaf extract.

Toxicological evaluation of aqueous leaf extract of Terminalia catappa linn (combretaceae) in pregnant rats.

Terminalia catappa (T. catappa) leaves are used in the treatment of hypertension, diabetes, cough, jaundice, indigestion etc, while the bark is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, abscesses etc. Due to the acceptance and increased use of medicinal plants in pregnancy, there is a need to evaluate their toxicological profiles in pregnancy for safe use. This study aims to evaluate the toxicological effects of aqueous leaf extract of T. catappa in pregnant rats. acute toxicity study was carried out using Organization of Economic Corporation Development (OECD) 423 guidelines. Seventy-five rats (50 females and 25 males) were used at the age of 2 weeks just after weaning. The male rats were separated from the female rats in different cages and allowed to mature for 10 weeks. Then the rats were allowed to mate. After mating, 20 female rats with viable spermatozoa counts were selected and divided into 4 groups of 5 rats each (n=5). The control group received distilled water while the treatment groups II, III, and IV were administered with aqueous leaf extract of T. catappa orally at graded doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg respectively for 21 consecutive days. The daily food and water intake, and weight were recorded. On the 22th day, the rats were anesthetized by chloroform inhalation, and blood samples were collected for haematological and biochemical analysis. The maternal livers, kidneys, and hearts were collected and weighed, and histological studies were carried out. The fetuses were removed and examined. An isolated tissue experiment was carried out on the myometrium of the pregnant rat uterus. The isometric reading of the uterine contractions was recorded. the oral LD50 was found to be ≤2000-5000 mg/kg. There was a significant (p<0.05) increase in the mean food intake at the 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg doses of the extract used on the 14th and 21st days when compared to the 7th day. The renal function test showed a significant (p<0.05) increase for chloride. The liver function test revealed that the extract at 100 mg/kg dose, significantly (p<0.05) increased only Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) liver enzyme, while at 200 mg/kg dose, only AST liver enzyme was significantly (p<0.05) increased, while at 400 mg/kg dose, ALT, AST, ALP, and albumin increased significantly (p<0.05) when compared to the control group. There was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the relative organ weight of the liver at 400 mg/kg dose of the extract. The liver histology showed moderate hepatic vacuolation and necrosis, while the histology of the kidney showed slight tubular necrosis. this study has shown that the aqueous leaf extract of T. catappa is relatively not safe in the pregnant rats. Although it is non-toxic to the fetus, it exhibited tocolytic effect by inhibiting uterine contractions, thus it should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester or during labor.

Histomorphological evaluation of the combined therapeutic potential of Carica papaya and Musa paradisiaca on indomethacin induced gastric injury

Background: Medicinal plants are often used for the preparation of remedies for the treatment of several ailments especially in rural areas. Objective: The study investigated the combined effect of Carica papaya (pawpaw) and Musa paradisiaca (plantain) leaves extract on the stomach walls of albino rats against indomethacin induced gastric ulceration. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five (n-25) albino rats were weighed and divided randomly into five groups. Each group consisted of five (n-5) rats. Group A served as negative control and received rat feeds and water ad libitum. Group B received feeds and a single dose of indomethacin (25 mg/kg body weight) via orogastric administration and organs were harvested 4 hours after administration. Group C rats were administered with Carica papaya leaf extract (250 mg/kg body weight) daily for 14 days. Group D was administered with Musa paradisiaca leaf extract (250 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days. Group E received combined extract of Carica papaya (250 mg/kg body weight) and Musa paradisiaca (250 mg/kg body weight) daily for 14 days. All the animals were allowed access to feed and water. The animals in groups C-E fasted for 24 hours and were administered with a single dose of indomethacin (25 mg/kg body weight). Four hours later, the animals were sacrificed under chloroform inhalation, organs harvested, processed and stained with haematoxylin and eosin for histomorphological evaluation. Result: The result of the study shows that the single dose of indomethacin caused gastric ulceration within 4 hours. Musa paradisiaca leaf extract ameliorated the effect of indomethacin on the stomach. Combination of Carica papaya and Musa paradisiaca leaves extract exacerbated the effect of indomethacin on gastrointestinal tract ulcers. Conclusion: The practice of using combined extract of Carica papaya and Musa paradisiaca should be avoided in ulcer patients or individuals on indomethacin therapy

Correlation Study between Immunohistochemical Expression of Testicular Inhibin and Seminal Fluid Analysis

The inhibin family of dimeric peptide hormones are produced in the testis and are postulated to have paracrine and autocrine roles in the regulation of steroidogenesis, Testis is a reproductive organ composed of the seminiferous tubules which is the site of spermatogenesis, while the Sertoli and Leydig cells are responsible for secreting hormone; (inhibin), to maintain spermatogenesis. Dissimilarity of activin expression and plasma level it can cause variation to the parameters (sperm count, motility, germinal layer width). Aim of study was evaluation of the inhibin immunohistochemical activity in testicular tissue and the association between the inhibin expression and spermatogenesis. This study was performed in Al-Nahrain University / College of Medicine from November 2020 to June 2021. A total of 20 adult male rabbit. All animals were examined and monitored in order to exclude unhealthy animal. The animals were euthanized by inhalation of chloroform. The animals’ behavior observed during the experiment, in addition, we measured the weights of animals before and after the experiment. Dissection of the Rabbit was done to obtain the testis. We collected seminal fluid by milking the epididymis and then seminal fluid analysis was performed by professional lab technician. The volume of testis was measured. The specimens are kept in 10% formalin for (24-48) hours for histological preparation. In comparison between the two groups of the study (A, B) showed a statistically significant differences in means of sperm count, motility of sperm, germinal layer width, Leydig cell number, and Sertoli cell number between them. Regarding the means of inhibin expression and plasma level in the parameters (sperm count, motility of sperm, germinal layer width) were suggestively advanced in group B compared to that in group A. In conclusion, the expression and level of inhibin subunits, is correlated with parameters (sperm count, motility, germinal layer width), Inhibin peptide hormone acts as inhibitor for FSH-pituitary secretion that in turn promote spermatogenesis. The study shown a highly significant differences of inhibin manufacture and action through spermatogenesis is occupied in the fine regulator of the seminiferous epithelium of the cycle. Also, this study showed a negative correlation between the parameters with inhibin.

Moringa oleifera Seed Actions Following Aspartame Consumption: A Systematic Evaluation of the Large Intestine

The study was carried out to assess the effect of oral administration of Moringa oleifera seed extract following aspartame consumption on the intestinal wall. Twenty-seven (27) rats were used for this study. They were divided into nine groups. Group A, the control group were administered distilled water, Group B were administered 0.4 ml of Aspartame, Group C were administered 1.5 ml of Aspartame, Group D1 were administered 0.6 ml of aspartame for the first three weeks followed by 1.5 ml of ethanolic extract of ground moringa seed on the fourth week, Group D2 was administered 0.5 ml of aspartame for the first three week followed by 1.3 ml of n-Hexane extract of ground moringa seed on the fourth week, Group E1 were administered 1.3 ml of apartame for the first three weeks, followed by 2.5 ml of ethanolic extract of ground moringa seed on the fourth week, Group E2, were administered 1.5 ml of aspartame for the first three weeks followed by 3.0 ml of n-Hexane extract of ground moringa seed on the fourth week, Group F1 were administered 1.4 ml of aspartame and 2.8 ml of ethanolic extract of ground moringa seed from week one to week four. Group F2 were administered 1.3 ml of aspartame and 2.5 ml of n-Hexane extract of ground moringa seed from week one to week four. The experiment lasted for 28 days. The rats were weighed once a week. On the 28th day, the rats were anaesthetized via chloroform inhalation; the large intestine harvested and fixed in 10% buffered formalin, processed and stained with Harris Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&amp;E). Blood were harvested for analysis of Blood Glucose Level. Data were expressed as Mean ± standard error of the Mean (M±SEM) and subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Significant difference between mean was accessed by Student-New-Man-Keuls post hoc test. 95% level of significance (p &lt; 0.05) was used for statistical analysis. Ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera seed extract could not protect the Large intestine from the toxic effect of aspartame while the n-Hexane extract of Moringa oleifera seed has a protective effect on the large intestine.

Effect of Caffeine Injection on Orthodontic Tooth Movement in Rats: An Experimental Study on Rats.

Objectives Several studies have investigated the effects of different medications on orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). This study assessed the effect of caffeine injection on OTM in rats. Materials and Methods Thirty-five male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups. Their first molars and central incisors were attached with a nickel-titanium closed coil spring with 50 g load. The rats in the three experimental groups received 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg caffeine intraperitoneally for 21 days. The negative control group did not receive any injection and did not undergo orthodontic treatment. The positive control group underwent orthodontic treatment and received 0.9% NaCl (saline) injection. After 21 days, all rats were sacrificed by chloroform inhalation, and the maxilla was resected. The mean number of Howship's lacunae, blood vessels, osteoclasts, and root resorption lacunae was histologically measured. The bone volume-to-total volume ratio (BV/TV) in maxillary molars was calculated by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) to quantify bone loss. Results The amount of OTM and the number of osteoclasts, blood vessels, and Howship's lacunae significantly increased in rats under caffeine therapy, while the number of root resorption lacunae did not increase. Lower BV/TV in the caffeine groups was in accord with the increased count of osteoclasts. Conclusion Caffeine injection can significantly increase OTM in rats.

Combined Effect of Ethanolic Leaf Extracts of Carica Papaya and Newbouldia Laevis on Hematological Parameters and Sperm Quality of Alloxan-Induced Rats

Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the effect of ethanolic leaf extracts of C. papaya and N. laevis on hematological parameters and sperm quality of alloxan-induced diabetic wistar rats. Methodology: Forty male rats weighing 130-180g were procured, acclimatized for two weeks, after which, were divided into eight groups of five rats each, and were housed in cages. The groups were designated as groups A – H. Group A served as the control group and received distilled water only. Groups B – H were induced with diabetes using alloxan. Group B did not receive any treatment, while the groups C – H received 400mg/kg of C. papaya leaf extract, 600mg/kg of C. papaya leaf extract, 400mg/kg of N. laevis leaf extract, 600mg/kg of N. laevis leaf extract, 200mg/kg of C. papaya + 200mg/kg of N. laevis, and 300mg/kg of C. papaya + 300mg/kg of N. laevis leaf extract respectively for 21 days orally with oral gastric tube. On the 22nd day, the animals were sacrificed via chloroform inhalation and blood samples were collected through ocular puncture for hematological analyses, and epididymis were collected for sperm quality study. All data were tabulated and statistically analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Result: The levels of WBC, RBC, HGB, PCV, sperm motility and sperm count were significantly (P&lt;0.05) decreased in group B (48.0 ± 2.25) (28.0 ± 2.25) (24.0 ± 1.87) and (50.86 ± 3.18), and D (44.0 ± 3.39) (30.0 ± 2.92) (26.0 ± 2.0) and (42.44 ± 2.17) (for sperm motility and count) when compared to group A (71.0 ± 2.25) (15.0 ± 1.58) (14.0 ± 1.87) and (68.74 ± 2.30), and significantly (P&lt;0.05) increased in groups F (89.0 ± 1.0) (6.0 ± 1.0) (5.0 ± 0.01) and (82.74 ± 3.19), G (91.0 ± 3.30) (5.0 ± 2.81) (4.0 ± 1.8) and (88.78 ± 2.50), and H (88.0 ± 1.60) (7.0 ± 0.80) (5.0 ± 0.01) and (80.92 ± 0.26) ( for sperm motility and count), groups D, F, G and H (for WBC, HGB, PCV) and groups DEFGH (for RBC) when compared to the control group A. However, there was no significant difference on the levels of WBC, RBC, HGB, and PCV, sperm motility and sperm count for groups C and E when compared with the control group A. Conclusion: C. papaya and N. laevis leaf extracts have ameliorating effects on diabetes and increased serum levels of hematological parameters and sperm quality. The ameliorating effects of the combined doses to the diabetic rats were better at lower dosages than when the individual leaf extracts were administered