Chemical pathology

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A STUDY OF THE INTERACTIONS BETWEEN PLASMA CORTISOL LEVELS, ESTROUS CYCLES, RECTAL TEMPERATURES AND RESPIRATORY RATES IN HEIFERS
(1978-06) ADEYEMO, O.
The need to improve the animal protein diet of the Nigerian population has underlined the importation of temperate-evolved cattle into Nigeria. How these animals adapt to the new environment should be of economic and scientific interest. Under the natural hot/humid subequatorial climate of Ibadan, some physiologic, adrenocortical and reproductive functions were investigated in 6 German Brown, 5 Holstein and 6 White Fulani heifers. The Brown/ Holstein and Fulani heifers attained puberty at the average eyes, with the standard deviation, of 17.8 + 1.6, 16.7 + 1.8 and 23.7 + 1.9 months respectively. Observations on estrous cycles showed that estrous period ranged between 7 and 31 hours in the three breeds, the mean values, with the standard errors, being 16.2+0.7, 15.8 ± 0.7 and 14.6 +_0.8 hours in the Brown, Holstein and Fulani heifers respectively. The difference between the Bos taurus and Bos indices cattle was slight but significant. Most estrus commenced during the day with a greater concentration in the morning time. The intensity of estrus was high in both species though, occasionally, a few Fulani heifers showed weaker estrual signs. Average estrous cycle length was slightly longer in the Brown and Fulani than in the Holstein heifers, the values, with the standard errors, being 21.0 + 0.3, 21.4 ± 0.2 and 20.1 + 0.2 days respectively. Ovulations occurred mostly within a day after estrus, and this as well as the duration of estrus and estrous cycle length showed no seasonal variations. There was no indication that Bos taurus and Bos indicus cattle under the semi-intensive management preferred any particular season for increased sexual activity or breeding in the sub-equatorial climate. Marked shifts occurred in the respiratory rates during four selected quarters of the year. Increases occurring in the dry hot season from the values in the relatively cooler season were highly significant. Both mean morning and mean afternoon values (l4 - 44 and 17 – 75 breaths per minute respectively) were highest in the Holstein and lowest in the Fulani heifers. Rectal temperatures showed slight but significant seasonal changes. Mean values were 101.3°F (38.5°C) and 102.2°F (39.0°C) in the morning and afternoon respectively for all the heifers together through the year. The lowest afternoon values occurred in the wettest and coolest months. The Fulani and Holstein heifers showed the lowest and highest mean values respectively. Diurnal and circadian shifts in the respiratory rates and rectal temperatures in the heifers were most exaggerated in the sun and in the Holsteins, the latter particularly exhibited polypnea and hyperthermia. Unlike the zebu, the Bos taurus cattle sought shade in the sun. The Holstein heifers sought shade more frequently and stayed there longer than the Brown heifers. Basal plasma cortisol concentrations at 07 - 08.00 hours, determined by radioimmunoassay during four quarters of the year was low, ranging between 1 - 10 ng/ml with occasional mid-cycle and more frequent- . proestrual and/or estrual elevations. Mean values showed slight but significant seasonal changes. The levels in the dry season were slightly lower than in the wet season. Breed differences were not significant. Diurnal and circadian plasma cortisol concentrations in heifers in the shade and in the sun showed no rhythmical pattern. Exogenous corticotrophin at and after mid-cycle stage elicited marked and prolonged adrenocortical response which varied between heifers, and did not alter estrous. cycle rhythmicity. A high adrenal reserve in the heifers was indicated. Bos taurus cattle have been found to be adaptable to the southern Nigerian climate represented by the Ibadan condition. Management practice should, however, ensure all-year-round provision of shade and adequate nutrition including the adoption of night grazing. The Brown cattle are recommended over the Holsteins because the former are more comfortable, A mixed herd of the two breeds should be discouraged because socially the Browns dominate over the Holsteins. The Fulani cattle are more adaptable to the subequatorial climate than the temperate-evolved cattle as evidenced by the physiological responses, artificial breeding should be suitable for the Fulani cattle as it is for the Bos taurus cattle. The need to adopt better management practices than hitherto existing, range system for the Fulani cattle so that their reproductive and productive attributes may be well manifested, is indicated.
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.
Plasma glucose and thiocyanate response to different mixed cassava meals in non-diabetic Nigerians
(The Macmillan Press Ltd., 1990-01) Akanji, A. O.; Adeyefa, I.; Charles-Davies, M.; Osotimehin, B. O.
We measured plasma glucose and thiocyanate levels before and up to 4 h after feeding 11 overnight fasted healthy non-diabetic volunteers randomly on three occasions each with three locally consumed cassava meals: (i) gari as eba 50 g; (ii) lafun 50 g and (iii) parboiled cassava flakes 76 g. Each of these meals contained 175 kcal (0.7 MJ) and was consumed with a sauce to a total caloric value of 300 kcal (1.26 MJ). On the fourth visit, each volunteer consumed 75 g glucose. While the peak and 2-h glucose values were greatest with oral glucose (P less than 0.01), they were similar with the three cassava meals, although tended to be lowest with lafirn. Similarly, areas (incremental and total) under the glucose/time curves were highest with oral glucose (P less than 0.05), but while eba and cassava flakes were similar, lafun had the lowest values (P less than 0.05). Plasma thiocyanate levels were unchanged after ingestion of oral glucose and eba, but increased to peak values (P less than 0.05) by 14 per cent on cassava flakes and by 23 per cent on lafun. We conclude that post-prandial glycaemia and plasma thiocyanate levels after cassava meals depend on the mode of preparation of the meal and that lafun showed the least glycaemic response of the three cassava meals tested although it caused the greatest increase in plasma thiocyanate levels. These findings suggest that a cyanogenetic potential does not always reflect a tendency to hyperglycaemia.
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.
Reproductive hormones in infertility and infection in sub-saharan African males
(2001) Charles-Davies, M. A.; Osotimehin, B. O.
The male factor is now recognised as a major contributor to a couples’ infertility. The role of reproductive hormones in male infertility is however controversial. This study therefore, was designed to investigate the role of reproductive hormones in male infertility in sub-Saharan Africa. 3 groups of subjects between 18-56 years were investigated. 25, 42 and 45 were recruited in fertile, infertile and sexually transmitted diseases (STDS). Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone(LH) and prolactin were estimated using the immunoradiometric assay technique while testosterone was estimated using radioimmunoassay technique utilizing commercially available kits (ICN Biomedical Inc.).Statistical analysis was done using students t-test and anova (one way) for comparison of means. FSH, LH, prolactin and testosterone were similar between fertile and infertile groups and between normospermic and dyspennic infertile groups. However, all except, prolactin were similar in STDs and fertile groups. Hormonal abnormalities may not be a major contributor to male infertility. However, role of prolactin in infertility and infection requires further studies.
Spermatozoal, seminal plasma and blood sperm antibodies in Nigerian males
(2001) Charles-Davies, M. A.; Osotimehin, B. O.
Infertility is common in Nigeria and the male role is now well recognized. Sperm antibodies (SA) have been observed as a cause of infertility and their production have in some circumstances been attributed to chronic infection of the genital tract. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infection-related infertility are reportedly highly prevalent in Nigeria. This study was therefore designed to evaluate the role of sperm antibodies and determine the involvement of STDs in the production of such SA among Nigerians. 122 adult males aged 18-56 years were investigated. 25 were normospermic, fertile males with no evidence of STDs and served as controls. 50 were infertile without STDs while 47 had proven STDs Immunobead binding technique was used for the detection of SA directly on the sperm cell, in seminal and blood plasma. Student’s t-test and anova (one-way) were used for statistical analysis of data obtained. Results showed that SA- IgG, IgA and IgM were present in blood and semen. However, mean percentage binding of these SA on motile sperm was low (<4%). Comparisons of SA in blood and semen between infertile/STDs groups and. fertile controls were not significantly different (p>0.05) The findings suggest that sperm antibodies are present but may not be associated with STDs or infertility in Nigeria males.
Spermatozoal, seminal plasma and blood sperm antibodies in Nigerian males
(2001) Charles-Davies, M. A.; Osotimehin, B. O.
Infertility is common in Nigeria and the male role is now well recognized. Sperm antibodies (SA) have been observed as a cause of infertility and their production have in some circumstances been attributed to chronic infection of the genital tract. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infection-related infertility are reportedly highly prevalent in Nigeria. This study was therefore designed to evaluate the role of sperm antibodies and determine the involvement of STDs in the production of such SA among Nigerians. 122 adult males aged 18-56 years were investigated. 25 were normospermic, fertile males with no evidence of STDs and served as controls. 50 were infertile without STDs while 47 had proven STDs Immunobead binding technique was used for the detection of SA directly on the sperm cell, in seminal and blood plasma. Student’s t-test and anova (one-way) were used for statistical analysis of data obtained. Results showed that SA- IgG, IgA and IgM were present in blood and semen. However, mean percentage binding of these SA on motile sperm was low (<4%). Comparisons of SA in blood and semen between infertile/STDs groups and. fertile controls were not significantly different (p>0.05) The findings suggest that sperm antibodies are present but may not be associated with STDs or infertility in Nigeria males.
Zinc in infertility and infection
(Klobex Academic Publishers, 2002-06) Charles-Davies, M. A.; Osotimehin, B. O.
Seminal zinc may be associated with seminal and prostatic function. The role of zinc in genital tract infection and infertility is controversial. The study was undertaken to elucidate the role of zinc in infertility and infection in order to explain the increasing rise in male infertility. Eighty-three adult males aged 18-56 years participated in the study. 25 were fertile, 45 were infertile while 15 had sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Zinc was estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Students t-test and ANOVA- one way were used for analysis of data. Seminal zinc values were not significantly different between groups tested and within the infertile groups (p > 0.05). It is suggested that seminal zinc may have little or no contribution to infection and infertility.
Sexually transmitted diseases and male infertility in the Nigerian
(Klobex Academic Publishers, 2003-02) Charles-Davies, M. A.; Osotimehin, B. O.
Infection related infertility is common in Nigeria. The study was designed to evaluate the involvement of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the pathogenesis of male infertility. One hundred and eighty-two male subjects aged 18-56 years were investigated-fertile (85), infertile (50), men with STDs (47). Semen was analysed according to WHO guidelines and appropriate statistical tests performed. Over 65% of subjects with STDs had gonorrhea and non-specific urethritis(NSU). More than two-thirds of STDs subjects (76.4%) were dyspermic and oligospermia was most frequently observed in infertile subjects (30%). Sperm count, percentage motility and morphology were significantly lower in infertile than fertile controls (P<0.001) while percentage motility was significantly lower in men with STDs than fertile controls (P = 0.005). Gonorrhea and NSU are still prevalent in the Nigerian society. STDs may cause infertility in the African male by reducing sperm motility and semen volume.
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.
Micronutrient levels in the plasma of Nigerian females with breast cancer
(Academic Journals, 2008-06) Arinola, O. G.; Charles-Davies, M. A.
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.
The serum levels of trace metals in Nigerian males with different PSA values
(2008-08) Arinola, O. G.; Charles-Davies, M. A.
Prostate cancer (PCa), the primary disease of men over 50 years of age is on the increase worldwide. Most PCa grows slowly from overt clinical disease to the stage that lead to death. The gradual course of PCA development provides opportunity for intervention. Supplement of diet taken by PCa patients may be an effective intervention because certain micronutrients had been implicated in cancer prevention. The present study is designed to determine the levels of trace metals in 80 Nigeria males having different concentrations of serum prostate surface antigen (PSA) using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The serum levels of PSA were measured with Beckman Coulter Access Immunoassay automated machine. Subjects with PSA values 5-10ng/ml had significantly high serum levels of Zn, Fe, Cd and Mn but significantly low level of Se compared with the controls (PSA 0- 4ng/ml). Subjects with PSA >10ng/ml had significantly low levels of Mn, Mg and Se compared with the controls. Subjects with PSA values 5-10ng/ml had significantly reduced level of Se compared with subjects with PSA >10ng/ml. Only Se was low in all subjects with PSA >4ng/ml, therefore there is a possibility that Se intake may reduce the risk and progression of PCA.
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
Challenges of endocrine function testing in resource poor settings (letter to the editor) (peer-reviewed)
(2009) Charles-Davies, M. A.
Oestrogen levels and humoral immune parameters in Nigerian breast cancer patients
(2009-09) Etuk, A. I.; Charles-Davies, M. A .; Arinola, O. G.
Objectives: Endocrine and immune interactions mediate breast cancer which is currently incurable. This study attempts at elucidating mechanisms by which breast cancer progresses by determining the levels of oestradiol and humoral immune parameters at different stages of breast cancer compared with women without breast cancer. Patients and Methods: 59 subjects (29 breast cancer attending Surgery Clinics of 2 teaching hospitals in Lagos State, Nigeria and 30 controls) aged 23-82 years were recruited using convenience sampling. Serum was obtained from 10ml of fasting blood from each subject and stored frozen at -20“C until analysis. Oestradiol and albumin were estimated using commercial kits (Adaltis Italia S.P.A and Biolab SA, Maizy, France) respectively. Haptoglobin, alpha-2- macroglobulin, caeruloplasmin, IgG, IgA, IgM were analysed by single radial iinmuno-diffusion method. SPSS version 10 was used for statistical analysis. Main Results: Oestradiol, haptoglobin and caeruloplasmin were significantly increased in premenopausal breast cancer patients compared with premenopausal controls, while only oestradiol was significantly increased in postmenopausal breast cancer patients compared with postmenopausal controls. Moreover, IgM, haptoglobin and caeruloplasmin were significantly reduced in stage III breast cancer patients compared with stages II and IV breast cancer patients. Conclusions: Although inflammation is common to all stages of breast cancer, immunosuppression is most pronounced in breast cancer patients in stage III of the disease.
Serum testosterone and lipids in relation to sexual dysfunction in males with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus
(Academic Journals, 2010-12) Umoh, U.; Charles-Davies, M. A.; Adeleye, J.
Low serum testosterone is associated with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome (case 1), type 2 diabetes mellitus (case 2), and cardiovascular disease. This study aims at identifying possible alterations in circulating testosterone and their relationship with plasma lipids in case1 and case2. Ninety-two male subjects were recruited in this prospective, cross-sectional study from two major hospitals in Ibadan and environs, Nigeria. Demographic, sexual and anthropometric characteristics were obtained from questionnaires by use of standard methods. Blood samples (10 ml) were obtained for determination of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides and high density lipoprotein by enzymatic methods while low density lipoprotein was calculated. Testosterone was analysed by Enzyme Immunoassay (Fortress Diagnostics, UK.). SPSS software version 16.0 was used for statistical analysis to find associations and relationships. Significantly lower concentrations of testosterone and high density lipoprotein, but higher concentrations of glucose in case 1 and 2 groups were observed compared with controls (p<0.05). Testosterone correlated positively with libido and nocturnal/early morning erection but inversely with erectile dysfunction only in case 2 (p<0.05). Deficient glucose uptake by the pituitary and the gonads and low circulating high density lipoprotein, consequence of insulin resistance could lead to hypogonadism. Dietary modulation and exercise may therefore be beneficial.
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.
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
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.
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.