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Cadmium level in pregnancy, influence on neonatal birth weight and possible amelioration by some essential trace elements
(2013) Ikeh-Tawari, E. P.; Anetor, J. I.; Charles-Davies, M. A.
Cadmium (Cd) is currently of great concern in rapidly industrializing countries‑India, China. Their products consumed especially due to increase demand in many developing countries like Nigeria can result in adverse effects. Cd is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant and toxicant and humans are continually exposed to the toxic effects of Cd primarily through food as well as from environmental pollution through industrial activities. Maternal exposure to Cd has been associated with the delivery of low‑birth weight babies and an increase incidence of spontaneous abortion. Cd a toxic metal can displace zinc (Zn) an essential element necessary for normal fetal development and growth. With this consideration, 160 subjects comprising of 125 pregnant and 35 non‑pregnant subjects as controls were recruited for this study. The pregnant subjects were classified according to the three trimesters of pregnancy as followed; 35, 35, and 55 from the first to the third trimesters respectively. The third trimester subjects were followed‑up until after delivery where neonatal parameters (birth weight, head circumference, and length) of babies were measured. 32 (58%) of the women delivered babies with normal birth weight, 19 women (35%) delivered babies with low‑birth weight while four women (7%) delivered babies with high‑ birth weight. Subject who delivered low‑birth weight babies had significantly higher Cd concentration and lower Zn concentration and body mass index when compared with those with normal weight babies. These results suggest that Cd indeed has some toxic effects on neonatal birth weight.
CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS IN PREMENOPAUSAL WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER AFTER OOPHORECTOMY
(2013-05) ADIGUN, M. O.
Oophorectomy is a management modality for Pre-Menopausal women with Breast Cancer (PMBC) resulting in reduced oestrogen levels and artificial menopause. Metabolic alterations occur during natural menopause while reduced levels of oestrogen (a known cardioprotective factor) may alter plasma lipids, lipoproteins and other cardiovascular risk factors. The effects of low estrogen levels, which occur in oophorectomised women are not known. This study was therefore designed to investigate the effects of oophorectomy on cardiovascular risk factors. In this longitudinal study, 69 women were recruited from the University College Hospital, Ibadan and environs. They consisted of 25 PMBC age-matched with 25 Pre-Menopausal women without Breast Cancer-Control (PreMC) and 19 Post Menopausal women without Breast Cancer as control for oophorectomised women (PostMC). Demographic (age, ethnicity, occupation and educational status), reproductive history (parity, age at menarche and menopause, age at first live birth, stage and duration of disease), Body Mass Index (BMI) and blood pressure (systolic-SBP and diastolic-DBP) were obtained from all groups by standard methods. Blood (10 mL) was collected at the luteal phase from PreMC, PostMC, PMBC before oophorectomy and 1, 3 and 6 months after oophorectomy. Plasma obtained was used for analyses of total Cholesterol (TC), High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDLC) and triglycerides levels by spectrophotometric methods. Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDLC) and Very Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (VLDLC) concentrations were computed using Friedwald’s formulae while estradiol level was assayed by EIA. Ratios of HDLC to TC, LDLC to HDLC and triglyceride to HDLC (indicative of low density lipoprotein particle size) were also evaluated. Data were analysed using ANOVA, Student’s t test and Pearson correlation coefficient and differences significant at p=0.05. Significantly lower triglycerides (134.810.0mg/dL, 171.223.0mg/dL), VLDLC (27.02.9mg/dL, 34.21.9mg/dL) levels and triglyceride to HDLC ratio (5.90.8, 15.04.3) but higher estradiol (261.019.0pg/mL, 102.1229.3pg/ml), DBP (78.82.1mmHg, 70.12.5mmHg) and SBP (1233.8mmHg, 112.43.2mmHg) levels were observed in PMBC before oophorectomy compared with PreMC respectively. PostMC had significantly higher SBP (125.34.9mmHg, 112.43.2mmHg) and TC levels (165.413.1mg/dL, 127.211.4mg/dl) than PreMC respectively. The BMI (kg/m2) of PMBC, PreMC and PostMC were similar (25.0, 25.2 and 26.0 respectively). The PMBC at 3 months had increased levels of triglycerides (182.021.0mg/dL, 135.010.8mg/dL), VLDLC (36.51.4mg/dL, 27.02.0mg/dL) and TC (185.517.6mg/dL, 135.29.8mg/dL) compared with PMBC before oophorectomy respectively. When PMBC at 3 months was compared with PostMC, the HDLC (36.04.1mg/dL, 25.02.7 mg/dL) and estradiol (158.331.5pg/mL, 55.310.6pg/mL) levels were significantly higher. The HDLC level was also higher in PMBC at 6 months compared to PostMC (47.18.8mg/dL, 25.02.7mg/dL). The plasma estradiol level of PMBC before oophorectomy reduced from 261.069pg/mL to 7723.4pg/mL at 1 month, increased to 158.0  31.5pg/mL at 3 months but reduced to 89.025pg/mL at 6 months. Elevated levels of high density lipoprotein and estradiol were found in oophorectomised women with breast cancer. Increased estrogen from one month to six months after oophorectomy could be due to extraglandular estrogen production. The safe effects of oophorectomy on lipids and lipoproteins in premenopausal Nigerian women with breast cancer suggest low cardiovascular risk.
Challenges of endocrine function testing in resource poor settings (letter to the editor) (peer-reviewed)
(2009) Charles-Davies, M. A.
Chlamydial infection, plasma peroxidation and obesity in tubal infertility
(2011-12) Nsonwu-Anyanwu, A. C.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Oni, A. A.; Taiwo, V. O.; Bello, F. A.
Background: Genital tract infections and obesity are both sources of oxidative stress. Alterations in immune and antioxidant parameters may arise from this or from an indeterminate autoimmune mechanism. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association of Chlamydial infection, obesity and oxidative response with tubal infertility in Nigerian women. Methods: It was a case-control study of 40 women with tubal infertility and 32 fertile women, respectively, recruited from the Infertility and Family Planning Clinics respectively, of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Anthropometric indices were measured in each subject and endocervical swabs were taken to screen for current genital tract infection. Antioxidant, hormonal and immunologic analysis were performed on serum. Results: None of the subjects had current genital tract infections. Chlamydia trachomatis IgG positivity was significantly higher in infertile than in fertile subjects [OR 4.33; 95%CI (0.078-0.681)]. No significant variations were observed in the anthropometric indices, antioxidant parameters and hormones between infertile and the fertile women. Body mass index correlated positively with oxidative stress in infertile subjects. Waist and hip circumferences correlated negatively with oestradiol in women with tubal infertility. Conclusion: Chlamydial infection is associated with tubal factor infertility, however, obesity seems to increase oxidative stress and reduce fertility potential in women with tubal factor infertility.
Combination of reduced levels of serum albumin and alpha-2-macroglobulin differentiates newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis patients from patients on chemotherapy
(2009) Adedapo, K. S.; Arinola, O. G.; Ige, O. M.; Adedapo, A. D. A.
Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is global disease affecting about one third of the world’s population with its attendant mortality and morbidity. Acute phase proteins have been used in monitoring the progression of infections but not in relation to PTB in this environment. The levels of total protein, albumin, α-2-macroglobulin, transferrin, and haptoglobulin were determined in 23 patients with PTB and 17- age / sex matched PTB-free controls using spectrophotometric and immunodiffusion methods respectively. The result showed that α-2-macroglobulin was significantly raised in PTB patients compared with controls (p<0.001), while the levels of transferrin and albumin were significantly reduced in PTB patients compared with the controls (p<0.001,0.000 respectively). The levels of α-2-macroglobulin and albumin were significantly raised in PTB patients on treatment compared with newly diagnosed PTB patients (p=0.05, p=0.01 respectively). The combination of reduced levels of albumin and α-2-macroglobulin may be used to differentiate newly diagnosed PTB and those on chemotherapy
THE CONTRIBUTION OF ENDOCRINE DISRUPTING HEAVY METALS TO OESTRADIOL MODULATION AND SEMEN QUALITY NIGERIAN MEN
(2011-06) CHUKUKA, OPURUM HAMILTON
Declining male fertility is of global concern and has been linked to the effects of endocrine disruptors on the modulation of oestradiol. These disruptors are also recognised to be toxic to the testes. Selenium and zinc play specific roles in heavy metal detoxification, testosterone metabolism, sperm formation and motility. This study was aimed at identifying the possible contribution of cadmium, lead, selenium and zinc to oestradiol modulation and sperm defects in Nigerian men. One hundred and twenty males (20-54 years) were recruited after informed consent. These were age-matched 77 dyspermics and 43 normospermics recruited from the Urology Clinics of two teaching hospitals in Nigeria. Demographic and anthropometric indices were obtained using a structured questionnaire and standard methods respectively. Semen samples were collected from subjects by masturbation after 3-5 days of abstinence from sexual intercourse. Spermiogram and sperm morphological characteristics were done using WHO guidelines and Tygerberg strict criteria respectively. Ten milliliters of blood was obtained from each participant. Serum and seminal plasma were obtained by centrifugation of clotted blood and semen respectively. Testosterone, oestradiol, prolactin, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone were estimated in serum while testosterone and oestradiol were estimated in seminal plasma by enzyme immunoassay method. Cadmium, lead, selenium and zinc were assayed in serum and seminal plasma by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Data were analysed using t-test, ANOVA and multiple regressions at p=0.05. Forty-eight (62.3%) dyspermics had reduced sperm motility and abnormal morphology while 17 (22%) and 12 (15.6%) had oligospermia and azoospermia respectively. Seminal plasma UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN LIBRARY iii oestradiol was significantly lower in normospermics (0.7±0.04nmol/L) than dyspermics (1.1±0.07nmol/L) while testosterone/oestradiol ratio was significantly higher in normospermics (10.7±0.60) than dyspermics (7.3±0.70). Serum and seminal plasma cadmium were significantly higher in dyspermics (0.3±0.02μg/L; 2.0±0.07μg/L) than normospermics (0.1±0.01μg/L; 1.2±0.07μg/L) respectively. Serum and seminal plasma lead levels were also significantly higher in dyspermics (34.8±0.55μg/dL; 39.2±0.61μg/dL) than normospermics (28.2±0.74μg/dL; 31.9±0.87μg/dL), respectively. Serum and seminal plasma selenium were significantly higher in normospermics (0.9±0.01mg/L; 0.3±0.01mg/L) than dyspermics (0.8±0.01mg/L; 0.2±0.01mg/L) respectively. Serum and seminal plasma zinc were significantly higher in normospermics (7.9±0.16mg/L; 161.9±5.16mg/L) than dyspermics (7.2±0.12mg/L; 141.9±2.77mg/L) respectively. In dyspermic men, increased serum Cd was significantly associated with increased oestradiol in serum (β=0.42) and seminal plasma (β=0.52). Increased seminal plasma Cd was associated with decreased seminal plasma Zn (β =-0.21), decreased % motility (β =-1.03), increased % tail defects (β =0.08) and decreased sperm deformity index (β =-0.21). Increased serum Pb was significantly associated with serum FSH (β = 0.29). Increased seminal plasma Pb was significantly associated with increased serum FSH (β = 0.21). Increased sperm count was significantly associated with decreased serum oestradiol (β =-0.75) and testosterone/oestradiol ratio (β = -0.54); increased seminal plasma oestradiol (β =0.41) and testosterone/oestradiol ratio (β =0.38). Higher sperm deformity index was significantly associated with decreased serum Se/Pb ratio (β =-0.27). UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN LIBRARY iv Cadmium and Pb may cause depletion of Zn and Se which may account for the loss of their protective effect resulting in dyspermia through direct toxicity, oxidative stress, endocrine disruption or other yet unresolved mechanisms. Keywords: Oestradiol, Endocrine disruptors, Trace elements, Semen quality, Male fertility Word count: 494
Cytokine profile in Nigerians with tubal infertility
(Termedia Publishing House Ltd, 2016) Nsonwu-Anyanwu, A. C.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Taiwo, V. O.; Bello, F. A.; Bin, L.; Oni, A. A.
Background: Immune response to genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection is involved in both immunity and pathology. The cytokine profile during infection has been implicated in the disease outcome, either resolution or severe sequelae. Serum cytokines of Chlamydia positive Nigerian women with tubal infertility were assessed to determine their possible relationship with tubal occlusion. Material and methods: One hundred and fifty age-matched consenting women (100 fertile and 50 with tubal infertility) were recruited based on C. trachomatis antibody positivity and grouped into infertile Chlamydia positive (CTpos) women (n = 50), fertile Chlamydia positive women (n = 50) and fertile Chlamydia negative (CTneg) women as controls (n = 50). High vaginal swabs and endo-cervical swabs were collected for microscopy, culture and gram staining. Cytokines [transforming growth factor β1 (TG F-β1), interferon γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL )-4, IL -10 and IL-17A] were estimated by ELISA in sera. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, χ2 and Spearman’s correlation at p = 0.05. Results: Lower IFN-γ levels were observed in infertile women compared to fertile women. Fertile CTneg women had significantly higher TNF-α, and TGF-β1 compared to fertile and infertile CTpos women, respectively. Lower IL-10 levels were seen in fertile CTpos women compared to the infertile CTpos group. Vaginal discharge was negatively correlated with TNF-α and IFN-γ and positively with IL-4 in Chlamydia positive women. Conclusions: Chlamydia positive women with tubal infertility have higher IL -10 and lower IFN-γ levels than controls, which may contribute to their development of tubal pathology.
Dietary salt and the glycaemic response to meals of different fibre content
(The Macmillan Press Ltd., 1989) Akanji, A. O.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Ezenwaka, C.; Abbiyesuku, F. A.; Osotimehin, B. O.
In attempting to resolve the existing controversy on the effect of dietary salt intake on glycaemic responses, wc investigated post-prandial plasma glucose levels in 10 healthy normal weight non-diabetic Nigerian subjects (aged 23.1 years ± 1.3 (s.e.m.) with body mass index, BMI 19.9 ± 0.6kg/m2) consuming equal amounts of carbohydrate from glucose, boiled yam (tow fibre content of 0.9 per cent raw tuber weight) and boiled black-eyed peas (high fibre content of 4.8 per cent dry weight) with and without added table salt (4.25g). The results indicated no significant differences in fasting, peak and 2-h plasma glucose concentrations and total and incremental areas under the 3-h glucose/time curves in the subjects consuming each meal with and without added salt. Added salt had no influence on the glycaemic index of each meal. We conclude that salt has no effect on the glycaemic response to plain glucose or meals with varying fibre content even in a population known to demonstrate defects in salt handling.
Endocrine disruptors-arsenic, cadmium and lead in pre and postmenopausal black women with breast cancer
(University College Hospital, Ibadan, 2017) Ajayi, O. O.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Anetor, J. I.; Ademola, A. F.
Background: The involvement of toxic metals in adiposity has been suggested to be contributory to the high incidence of breast cancer, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This study is aimed at evaluating serum arsenic, cadmium and lead in relation to adiposity and blood pressure in Nigerian women with breast cancer. Methodology: The study comprised 85 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer pre-therapy (cases) matched with 84 apparently healthy women without breast cancer (controls) according to age and menstrual phase. Arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) levels were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Blood pressure and anthropometry were determined by standard methods. Data analysed by Student’s t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient were considered statistically significant at p<0.05. Results: Cd and Pb levels were significantly higher in cases, compared with controls (p<0.05). Waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), weight, height, waist hip ratio (WHR), waist height ratio (WHtR) were significantly higher in cases compared with controls (p<0.05). Cadmium positively correlated with diastolic blood pressure while FT4 inversely correlated with arsenic in the cases (p<0.05). Conclusion: Observations in this study suggest the involvement of these toxic metals in adiposity which could be involved in breast carcinogenesis.
Environmental influences in normal weight women with history of recurrent pregnancy loss
(2013) Aborisade, O. B.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Okunlola, M. A.
Aim: The study investigated the possible relationship of luteal phase progesterone, toxic heavy metals and nutrients in normal-weight women with history of recurrent pregnancy loss for adequate management. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: The Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Shagamu and State Hospital, Ijebu-Ode; the University of Ibadan and environs between April and September, 2009. Methodology: 90 apparently healthy women with normal weight aged 18-45years with regular and ovulatory cycles of 26-30 days were enrolled. They were 60 women with history of recurrent pregnancy loss (cases) age-matched with 30 women without history of recurrent pregnancy loss (controls). Demographic and anthropometric measurements were done by standard methods. Progesterone was determined by enzyme immunoassay (Immunometrics UK Ltd). Total cholesterol, triglyceride and high density lipoprotein were performed by enzymatic methods (Randox laboratories, USA) while low density lipoprotein was calculated using Friedwald’s formula. Zinc, selenium, chromium, manganese, iron, magnesium, copper, lead, and cadmium were estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometry while Vitamin E was measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 16.0. Results: Results showed significantly higher levels of triglycerides, cadmium and lead, and significantly lower levels of progesterone, iron, copper, magnesium, chromium, selenium and vitamin E in cases compared with controls (p<0.013). Conclusion: Oxidative stress mechanisms in normal-weight women with history of recurrent pregnancy loss were implicated. Healthcare policies should focus on pollution reduction and increase awareness on healthy diet for optimal periconceptional micronutrient requirements.
ERYTHROCYTE OMEGA-3-POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS, SELECTED ANTIOXIDANTS AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE RISK FACTORS IN ELDERLY NIGERIANS WITH DEMENTIA
(2012-08) AYELAGBE, OLUBUNMI GLORIA
Dyslipidemia, reduced omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and vitamins are risk factors for cerebrovascular disease associated with dementia. Prognosis differs between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Vascular Dementia (VD) but derangements of the fatty acids and their clinical values for making distinction are unclear. In addition, inadequate antioxidant levels have been associated with hyperhomocystenemia in dementia patients. Therefore, levels of lipids, omega-3 and-6 fatty acids, folate, homocysteine, selenium and vitamin E were evaluated in VD and AD patients. Forty consenting patients with VD and fifteen with AD were recruited at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Forty healthy adults served as control group. Anthropometric indices and Blood Pressure (BP) were measured in all subjects. Fasting venous blood sample was obtained and erythrocytes were separated by centrifugation. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used for analysis of erythrocyte fatty acids: Docosahexanoic Acid (DHA), Eicosapentanoic Acid (EPA), Linolenic Acid (LA) and Arachidonic Acid (AA) as Total Fatty Acids (TFA). Plasma homocysteine was determined using HPLC with fluorescence detection. Plasma folate was determined by Ion Capture Technology using pteroic acid and alkaline phosphatase as signal-generators; vitamin-E by colorimetry; selenium, Total Cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, High Density Lipoproteins-Cholesterol (HDL-C) by spectrophotometry and Low Density Lipoprotein- Cholesterol (LDL-C) was estimated using Friedewald’s formula. Data were analysed using ANOVA, Chi Square, Student’s t-test and Pearson correlation at p = 0.05. Mean ages for AD (71.1 ±5.0 years), VD (69.0 ±8.2 years) and control (67.5 ±6.8 years) were not significantly different. Mean systolic BP was lower in VD (148.3 ±41.8 mmHg) than AD (156.0 ±36.0 mmHg). Mean BMI, weight and height of the three groups were not significantly different. Mean DHA and EPA in VD (6.7 ±1.9% and 2.4 ±1.7 % of TFA) and AD (5.4 ±2.1% and 3.0 ±1.7% TFA) were lower than in the control (8.9±3.8% and 6.0 ±4.7% TFA) but there were no differences in LA and AA among the three groups. Mean triglyceride and LDL-C were higher in VD (122.7 ±47.3 mg/dL, 101.6 ±28.5 mg/dL) than AD (86.0 ±17.5 mg/dL, 84.7 ±24.6 mg/dL) and control (72.7 ±37.3 mg/dL, 71.2 ±37.1 mg/dL), while UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN LIBRARY iii HDL-C was lower in VD (39.8 ±22.4 mg/dL) than AD (46.2 ±21.3 mg/dL) and control (52.2 ±18.9 mg/dL). Mean homocysteine was higher in VD (9.6 ±1.8 μmol/L) and AD (10.0 ±1.7 μmol/L) than control (6.4 ±3.5 μmol/L). Mean selenium and folate were lower in both VD (1.4 ±0.7 μmol/L, 3.5 ±0.7 ng/mL) and AD (1.5 ±0.6 μmol/L, 5.4 ±0.9 ng/mL) than in control (3.1 ±0.5 μmol/L, 9.5 ±2.8 ng/mL). There were negative correlations between homocysteine and folate (r = -0.67), homocysteine and selenium (r = -0.14) but positive correlations between folate and DHA (r = 0.49); homocysteine and TFA (r = 0.36). Deficiencies of fatty acids, folate and selenium were associated with occurrence of dementia subtypes in Nigerians. Differences in erythrocyte fatty acids levels did not vary distinctly in Vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease patients. Omega- 3 fatty and folic acids and antioxidant supplements have the potential to reduce vulnerability to neurodegeneration. Keywords: Senile dementia, polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants.
Female reproductive hormones and biomarkers of oxidative stress in genital chlamydia infection in tubal factor infertility
(Avicenna Research Institute, 2015) Nsonwu-Anyanwu, A. C.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Taiwo, V. O.; Bin, L.; Oni, A. A.; Bello, F. A.
Background: Genital Chlamydia infection (GCI) and the associated pathologies have been implicated in tubal infertility. Though the actual pathologic mechanisms are still uncertain, oxidative stress and other factors have been implicated. The purpose of the study was to determine the possible contribution of female reproductive hormones and biomarkers of oxidative stress in genital Chlamydial infection to tubal occlusion. Methods: This prospective case control study was carried out by recruiting 150 age matched women grouped into infertile Chlamydia positive women (n=50), fertile Chlamydia positive women (n=50) and fertile Chlamydia negative women as controls (n=50). High vaginal swabs and endocervical swabs were collected for screening Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, Treponema pallidum, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. Sera were collected for estimation of Chlamydia trachomatis antibody, female reproductive hormones [Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Oestradiol (E2), Progesterone (P4), Prolactin (PRL)] and biomarkers of oxidative stress [Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) and 8-hydroxyl-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)] by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Data were analyzed using chi square, analysis of variance and LSD Post hoc to determine mean differences at p=0.05. Results: Among women with GCI, higher levels of LH and 8-OHdG were observed in infertile Chlamydia positive women compared to fertile Chlamydia positive women (p<0.05). Higher levels of LH and 8-OHdG and lower TAC levels were observed in infertile Chlamydia positive women compared to fertile Chlamydia negative controls (p<0.05). Conclusion: Mechanisms including oxidative DNA damage and reduced antioxidant capacity may be involved in the pathology of Chlamydia induced tubal damage.
Hypogonadism in males exposed to mixed chemicals in a mechanic village in Bodija, Ibadan
(2015) Okoli, S. U.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Onifade, A. A.; Adekola, S.
Africa has great intensity of chemical exposure and high level of infertility. Functional disorders of the male germ cell and endocrinopathies have been attributed to exposure to mixed chemicals. Data on the mixed chemical exposure on reproductive hormones are sparse in Nigeria. This study was designed to evaluate male reproductive hormones and determinants of occupational exposure to mixed chemicals in a mechanic village in Ibadan. Forty-three males, auto mechanics aged 18-60 years occupationally exposed to mixed chemicals (MCG) at their work place in Bodija mechanic village with mean±SEM duration of 21.2±1.9 years were age matched with 40 unexposed males (controls) from the University College Hospital, Ibadan and environs. Demography, anthropometry, blood pressure and sexual history were obtained by standard methods. Blood (10 ml) was obtained from each participant for estimation of reproductive hormones by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was determined spectrophotometrically. Testosterone/oestradiol ratio (TE ratio) was calculated. The MCG were classified based on their reproductive hormone levels into 4 subgroups as eugonadic, hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism, sub-optimal hypogonadism and compensated hypogonadism. P<0.05 was regarded as significant. There were significantly raised oestradiol levels, diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference and waist to hip ratio and significantly lower TAC and TE ratio in the MCG than the controls (P<0.01). Exposed hypogonadic males exhibited significantly lower LH, FSH, testosterone, prolactin, TAC levels and TE ratio than exposed eugonadic males (P<0.05). Hypogonadism in the males exposed to mixed chemicals may be associated with reduced TE ratio resulting from increased adipose mass as well as oxidative stress associated with the mixed chemical exposure.
Immunologlubulin classes and nutritional factors in plasma and breast milk of lactating Mothers in Nigeria
(Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, 2006) Charles-Davies, M.; Arinola, G.; Sanusi, R.; Osotimehin, B. O.
Background: Breast milk is important for the overall well-being of infants. Although lactation is relatively robust in the face of poor nutrition, the implication of poor nutrition on non-nutritive factors in breast milk is inconclusive. Objective: This study was designed to find associations between nutritional and immune factors in maternal blood and breast milk with the aim to improve the needed public and individual strategies for a healthy infant. Method: A cross sectional study was conducted on 61 lactating Nigerian women aged 23-40years within the first 3 months postpartum. Anthropometric measurements were obtained while nutritional factors (total protein, albumin) and immunoglobulin classes (IgG, A and M) were estimated by Biuret, Bromocresol green and single radial immunodiffusion methods respectively in maternal plasma and breast milk. Results: Most (73.5%) of the lactating mothers had normal mean body mass index (i.e. not under weight nor obese) and the mean levels of plasma total protein, albumin, IgG, IgA and IgM were within normal reference ranges in these mothers. Nutritional and immunological indices increase in the plasma with length of lactation but decrease in breast milk with lactation. There were no correlation between BMI, plasma indices and milk indices in these lactating mothers. Conclusion: This study supports the superiority of colostrum over transitional or matured milk for the protection and nourishment of infants.
Impact of dietary intervention on selected biochemical indices of inflammation and oxidative stress in Nigerians with metabolic syndrome: a pilot study
(2014) Rahamon, S. K.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Akinlade, K. S.; Olaniyi, J. A.; Fasanmade, A. A.; Oyewole, O. E.; Owolabi, M. O.; Adebusuyi, J. R.; Hassan, O. O.; Ajobo, B. M.; Ebesunun, M. O.; Adigun, K.; Fabian, U. A.; Popoola, O. O.; Okunbolade, W.; Arinola, O. G.; Agbedana, E. O.
Aim: This study assessed the impact of dietary modification on cardiometabolic, inflammatory and oxidative stress indices in Nigerians with metabolic syndrome (MS). Subjects and Methods: Sixty participants with MS were selected using the International Diabetes Federation criteria from a cohort participating in “Risk Assessment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and Dementia in Nigerians with Metabolic Syndrome” study. The subjects were seen by a Dietitian and the approximate percentages of total calories from total protein, total fat, polyunsaturated fat, and carbohydrate were calculated from dietary history and pegged at 20%, 30%, 14% and 50% respectively. To ensure compliance, each participant was seen monthly (for 6 months) by the Dietitian. Glucose and lipid profile were determined using enzymatic methods. Serum activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and levels of nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), total protein and albumin were determined using spectrophotometric methods while high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and tumuor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were determined using ELISA. Student’s t-test (paired) and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used for statistical analysis as appropriate. P-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference(WC), hip circumference (HC), body fat, NO, hsCRP, H2O2, total protein and globulin were significantly reduced while the mean HDL, MDA, albumin and activities of CAT and MPO were significantly increased post-dietary modification compared with baseline. Conclusion: Short-term dietary intervention improved cardiovascular risk, inflammation and oxidative stress indices in Nigerians with MS.
The impact of selected heavy metals to dyspermia in Nigeria
(2014-06) Opurum, H. C.; Abbiyesuku, F. M.; Charles-Davies, M. A.
Declining male fertility is of global concern and has been linked to the effects of some heavy metals which are recognised as testicular toxins. Selenium and zinc play specific roles in heavy metal detoxification, testosterone metabolism, sperm formation and motility. This study was aimed at identifying the possible contribution of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) to sperm defects in Nigerian men. 120 males (20-54 years) were recruited after informed consent. These were age-matched 77 dyspermics and 43 normospermics. Semen samples were collected from subjects by masturbation after 3-5 days of abstinence from sexual intercourse. Spermiogram and sperm morphological characteristics were done using WHO guidelines and Tygerberg Strict criteria respectively. 10 ml of blood was obtained from each participant. Serum and seminal plasma were obtained by centrifugation of clotted blood and semen respectively. Cd, Pb, Se and Zn were assayed in serum and seminal plasma by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Data were analysed using t-test, ANOVA and multiple regressions at p=0.05. Increased serum Zn/Cd (p=0.04) and Se/Cd (p=0.03) significantly predicted increased semen volume in dypermics. Increased seminal plasma Se/Pb (p=0.05) significantly predicted increased normal sperm morphology. Increased serum Cd significantly predicted increased tail defects (p=0.008) whereas, increased serum Se/Cd significantly predicted decreased tail defects (p=0.01) in normospermics only. Increased serum Zn/Cd significantly predicted (p=0.048) decreased Teratozoospermia index (TZI). Increased seminal plasma Zn (p=0.04) and Zn/Pb (p=0.04) significantly predicted decreased sperm deformity index (SDI) respectively. Reduced levels of selenium and zinc in dyspermic males may account for the loss of their protective effect against cadmium and lead toxicity to the testes.
Indices of metabolic syndrome in 534 apparently healthy traders
(David Publishing, 2012-02) Charles-Davies, M. A.; Arinola, O. G.; Fasanmade, A. A.; Olaniyi, J. A.; Oyewole, O. E.; Owolabi, M. O.; Hassan, O. O.; Ajobo, M. T.; Adigun, K.; Akinlade, K. S.; Adebusuyi, J. R.; Ebesunun, M. O.; Popoola, O. O.; Okunbolade, W.; Fabian, U. A.; Rahamon, S. K.; Ogunlakin, M. A.; Agbedana, E. O.
Background: Metabolic Syndrome (MS) increases the risk of developing type-2 diabetes (DM2) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and it is thought to be prevalent in Nigeria. This study aims at determining the prevalence of MS and its component risk factors among apparently healthy traders in a local market in Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods: 534 apparently healthy traders from a local market in Bodija, Ibadan, Nigeria aged (18–105) years with neither DM2 nor CVD were participants of a cohort study on risk assessment of type 2 diabetes and dementia in Nigerians with metabolic syndrome. The International Diabetes Federation (2005) and the World Health Organisation (1998) criteria were used for MS and BMI respectively. Anthropometric indices (weight, height, body mass index (BMI), percentage body fat (PBF), waist and hip circumferences (WC & HC) and their ratio (WHR), waist circumference to height ratio (WHT)) and blood pressure (BP) were obtained by standard methods. Blood samples (6 ml) were obtained for the determination of glucose (FPG), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) by enzymatic methods while low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was calculated. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and ANOVA were among the analyses conducted. Results: 301 (56.4%) of traders studied were overweight (176, 33.0%) or obese (125, 23.4%) while 17 (3.4%) and 125 (40.4%) were underweight and normal weight respectively. The prevalence of MS and obesity were 87 (16.3%) and 125 (23.4%) respectively. There was significant association between obesity and MS (p < 0.05). Both MS and obesity were significantly associated with gender (p < 0.05). The prevalence of MS and obesity was higher in female (20.9%; 31.0%) than male traders (6.5%; 7.1%) respectively. The prevalence of MS increased from normal weight (8.3%) to overweight (18.8%) to obesity (28.8%). There were significantly higher differences in age, BP(systolic and diastolic), weight, BMI, WC, HC, WHT, WHR, and PBF but lower difference in height when overweight/obese groups were compared with normal weight group (p < 0.05). TC and LDL-C were significantly higher in only obese than normal weight traders. However, FPG, TG and HDL-C were similar in all groups (p >0.05). Conclusion: There is high prevalence of MS and obesity among Nigerian traders. Female gender, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, increasing age, general and abdominal obesity appear to be important metabolic risk factors of CVD and not DM2 among Nigerian traders. Health care strategies for effective modulation of diet and lifestyle are needed urgently. In addition, screening programs for indices of MS in all Nigerians irrespective of BMI could be considered.
Inhibin B levels in relation to obesity measures and lipids in males with different numbers of metabolic syndrome components
(2016) Laniyan, D. O.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Fasanmade, A. A.; Olaniyi, J. A.; Oyewole, O. E.; Owolabi, M. O.; Adebusuyi, J. R.; Hassan, O.; Ajobo, B. M.; Ebesunun, M. O.; Adigun, K.; Akinlade, K. S.; Okoli, S. U.; Arinola, O. G.; Agbedana, E. O.
Introduction: Defective spermatogenesis and metabolic syndrome affect 2-4% and 12.4% of males respectively. Deficient testosterone levels due to increased conversion of testosterone to oestradiol have been demonstrated in males with the metabolic syndrome (MS) with limited pituitary and leptin contribution. Defective spermatogenesis is thus implicated in males with MS but is controversial. Inhibin B is a marker of spermatogenesis. This study aims at evaluating inhibin B levels and their relationship with obesity measures and lipids in males with different number of MS components. Materials and Methods: This is a preliminary prospective study in which a total of 106 apparently healthy males (30, 30, 30 and 16 males with 0, 1, 2 and ≥3 components of metabolic syndrome (NMSC) respectively) aged 19-64 years were purposely selected. Blood pressure (BP) and obesity measures (including visceral adiposity index (VAI) and body mass index (BMI)) were obtained by standard methods. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) were determined by enzymatic methods while low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) and the lipid ratios (TG/HDLC, TC/HDLC, LDLC/HDLC) were calculated. Inhibin B was analysed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (RayBiotech, Inc. USA). Data analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple regressions were significant at P <.05. Results: Inhibin B decreased significantly in males with 0 to 2 NMSC (P <.05). However, inhibin levels between males with 0 and ≥3 NMSC were similar. Age and inhibin B levels were also similar among the different classes of BMI (P>0.05). Inhibin B related positively with HDLC and TC but negatively with VAI, LDLC and TC/HDLC. Conclusion: Reproductive function appears protected in Nigerian males with MS. However, improvement in HDLC, LDLC, TC levels, VAI and TC/HDLC may enhance fertility potential especially in males with one or two MS components, probably through dietary modulation and physical activity.
Leptin concentrations in African blacks with metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes mellitus
(David Publishing, 2011) Fabian, U. A.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Adebusuyi, J. R.; Ebesunun, M. O.; Ajobo, B. M.; Hassan, O. O.; Adigun, K.; Owolabi, M. O.; Oyewole, O. E.; Olaniyi, J. A.; Fasanmade, A. A.; Akinlade, K. S.; Arinola, O. G.; Agbedana, E. O.
Background: Mortality rate from metabolic/cardiometabolic syndromes (MS/CMS) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) are highly prevalent in African blacks known with higher mortality from cardiovascular diseases than caucasians. Leptin, a satiety-regulating hormone increases in obesity and is associated with cardiovascular risk and prediction of MS. This study is designed to evaluate leptin in Nigerians with MS and DM2 to assist in the early diagnosis and prevention of metabolic diseases. Methods: 136 participants (45 with MS, 47 with DM2 and 44 apparently healthy individuals (controls)) aged 18-80 years were included in a cohort study at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Measures of adiposity-%body fat, body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumferences (WC and HC respectively), waist to hip ratio (WHR), and blood pressure were obtained by standard methods. 10 ml of blood were obtained from each participant after an overnight fast (10-14 h) and analysed for leptin, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), and glucose by standard methods while low density lipoprotein (LDL) was calculated. Data obtained were analysed statistically with SPSS software version 16.0. Results: Weight, BMI, WC, HC, WHR, %body fat, blood pressure, TG, LDL-C, and glucose were significantly higher while HDL-C was significantly lower in individuals with MS and DM2 compared with controls (p<0.039). Leptin levels were significantly higher in MS group and not in DM2 group when compared with controls (p=0.000). Leptin did not correlate with any of the biochemical indices (p>0.05) tested but correlated significantly with different measures of adiposity in all groups. Leptin correlated negatively but significantly with blood pressure in MS group only. Conclusion: Increases in leptin levels in both MS and DM2 groups might reflect adiposity. Observed high leptin levels in MS group might be a compensatory mechanism for maintenance of weight/fat loss and blood pressure. Its routine analysis may assist in assessing adiposity associated with MS and DM2 for probable prevention of metabolic diseases.
MALARIA PARASITAEMIA AND HUMORAL IMMUNE RESPONSES TO SOME DEFINED PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM ANTIGENS IN NEWBORNS, INFANTS AND ADULT NIGERIANS
(1994-08) ACHIDI, E. A.
A cohort of mothers and then newborns at Igbo-Ora, Oyo State was studied longitudinally for 12 months to determine the incidence of malaria parasitaemia, episodes of clinical malaria and their humoral immune response to malaria infection. Cross-sectional studies were also performed on adults at the Government Technical College, Igbo-Ora and blood donors at the University College Hospital, Ibadan during the rainy and dry seasons. Peripheral and cord blood samples were collected from 116 women at delivery and maternal-newborn malariometric indices were recorded. Infants were monitored fortnightly to detect episodes of clinical malaria and serial blood samples were collected at bi-monthly clinics. Blood samples were collected from 100 volunteers at the G.T.C. Igbo-Ora in July, 1991 and 33 of these volunteers in February, 1992; 224 blood donors at the U.C.H., Ibadan between October and November, 1991 and in 192 donors in March, 1992. Immunological assays included single radial immunodiffusion assay for IgG, IgM and IgA; immunofluorescence assay for antibodies to total blood stage antigens; erythrocyte membrane immunofluorescence (EMIF) assay to detect antibodies to the Pfl55/RESA; and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for antibodies to four synthetic peptides. Malaria parasites were detected in 2.5% of cord blood samples and in 22.4% of the parturient women. The malaria parasite rates and densities of the study infants increased significantly with increasing age. Parasite rates at the July and February surveys at the G.T.C. were similar (P>0.50) while parasite density was higher (P<0.01) at the July survey. The parasite rate of blood donors at the October-November survey was higher (P<0.001) than at the March survey while parasite density in March was higher (P<0.001) than at the October-November survey. Cord blood IgG was significantly lower than maternal IgG levels and a correlation was observed between cord and maternal IgG but not IgM levels. During the first year of life, IgM but not IgG and IgA was significantly higher in malaria positive infants compared with negative infants. Antibodies to total blood stage antigens were detected in all sera tested. Malaria-specific IgM was detected in 5.8% of cord blood samples. There was a correlation between maternal and cord blood antibody titres to the Pfl55/RESA (P<0.001) antigen. In addition a correlation was obtained between maternal and cord blood ELISA (OD405) values to the (EENV)6, LJ5 and MAP2 peptides but not (NANP)6 peptide. There was no correlation between cord blood IgG, IgM, anti- Pfl55 antibody titres, ELISA (OD405) values to the (EENV)6, (NANP)6, U5 and MAP2 peptides and duration of onset of malaria in the infant. Cord blood seropositivity for antibodies to the Pfl55/RESA and (NANP)6 antigens or (EENV)6 and (NANP)6 peptides did not influence age of onset of clinical malaria. However, infants with haemoglobin AS whose cord blood was seropositive for antibodies to the Pfl55/RESA and (NANP)6 antigens or (EENV)6 and (NANP)6 peptides showed delayed onset of clinical malaria compared with AA infants. In adults, anti-Pfl55 antibody titres and ELISA seroreactivities to the (EENV)6, LJ5 and MAP2 peptides showed a wide variation and individual levels were similar on consecutive surveys. Seroreactivity to the (NANP)6, was higher at the end of the rainy season than at the end of the dry season. The presence and level of antibodies to the Pfl55/RESA, (EENV)6, (NANP)6, U5 and MAP2 antigens did not influence the presence and density of malaria parasites. Parasitological data in infants suggest some relative protection within the first 2-3 months of life. However, maternally acquired antibodies alone may not be responsible for this observation. The presence of malaria-specific IgM in cord blood suggest intrauterine sensitization of the foetus by malarial antigens. Although no relationship was observed between malarial antibody levels and parasite rates/densities in the adult subjects, these antibodies may still play a role in immune protection against malaria.