HIV-1 RNA Viral Load, CD4 Count and Some Haematological Parameters of People Living with HIV in the Enugu Metropolis

Background: It is widely known that the human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) induces biochemical and physiological changes in affected persons. Consequently, the overall aim of this study was to evaluate the HIV-1 RNA viral load, CD4 count, and certain haematological parameters among HIV treatment-na?ve subjects in the Enugu metropolis of Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 252 HIV-infected, ART-native subjects (≥18) attending the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) in Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu were recruited for this study and were made up of 157 (62.3%) females and 95 (37.7%) males. A total of 250 HIV-negative subjects were used as control subjects (100 males and 150 females). Blood samples were collected from all the participants and their HIV-1 status was confirmed by an immunoblot confirmatory test. Their haematological parameters and CD4 count were evaluated, while the HIV-1 viral load was only assessed on confirmed HIV-positive subjects. Results: There was female predominance (62.3%) among these HIV-positive subjects. The mean age of HIV-positive subjects was 39.16 ± 10.08 years while the mean age of the control subjects was 34.8 ± 8.6 years. The age group of 31 - 40 years (102/252 (40.5%)) constituted most of the test subjects. The total white blood cells (TWBC) (6.05 ± 5.46), lymphocyte counts (36 ± 14), haemoglobin concentrations (Hb) (9.85 ± 7.36) and the CD4 counts (242 ± 228) of the HIV-infected subjects showed a significant difference when compared with their control counterpart values of TWBC (4.5 ± 0.568), lymphocytes (39.67 ± 8.2), Hb (13.48 ± 1.5), and CD4 counts (807 ± 249) (p 0.05). Anaemia, lymphocytopenia, and thrombocytopenia were the haematological abnormalities seen in the HIV-positive subjects. HIV viral load correlated with haemoglobin concentration, CD4 count, lymphocyte count, and neutrophil count (p Conclusion: Prognostic factors, such as haemoglobin concentrations, CD4 counts, lymphocyte counts, and neutrophil counts can be used to monitor patients’ viral loads since they correlate with the latter;furthermore, age is a factor that should be considered in the management of HIV-positive patients.

Some Haematological Parameters in Primary Hypertensive Subjects Attending a Tertiary Hospital in Nigeria

Background: Hypertension is a persistent elevation of blood pressure in the arteries which if not properly managed can lead to stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, peripheral vascular disease and other life threatening outcomes. This study investigated some haematological parameters of Primary hypertensive subjects. Objectives: To compare some haematological parameters (haematocrit, haemoglobin concentration, Platelets count, White Blood Cells count, red blood cell count and Red Cells Indices between hypertensive and normotensive subjects. Materials and methods: Blood samples were collected from 76 known hypertensive subjects between 30 - 70 years attending the Cardiology clinic of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital Gwagwalada. Another 37 normotensive subjects between 30 - 65 years served as the control. All subjects gave their consents. Platelets count, Haemoglobin estimation, Packed Cell Volume, Red Blood Cell Count, Mean Cell Volume, Mean Cell Haemoglobin, Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration and White Blood Cell count were determined using Mythic 22 five parts haematology analyzer. Results: Results for Hypertensive and Control subjects were, White Blood Cell, 5.76 ± 1.45 × 109/l and 4.76 ± 1.03 × 109/l, Platelet count, 248.7552.45 × 109/l and 284.95 ± 27.66 × 109/l, Mean Cell Volume, 91.81 ± 3.05 fl and 85.68 ± 6.48 fl, Mean Cell Haemoglobin, 30.59 ± 1.04 pg and 27.922 ± 2.74 pg, Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration, 33.34 ± 0.61 g/dl and 32.32 ± 0.93 g/dl, Red Blood Cell, 4.33 ± 0.39 × 109/l and 4.50 ± 0.52 × 109/l, Packed Cell Volume, 39% ± 3.15% and 40% ± 4.41% and Haemoglobin, 13.21 ± 1.10 g/dl and 13.50 ± 1.63 g/dl respectively. Mean Cell Volume, Mean Cell Haemoglobin, Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration (Red cells indices) were significantly higher in hypertensive compared to normotensive subjects (P 0.05), total White Blood Cell count was also higher in hypertensive than normotensive but not statistically significant (P > 0.05). However, Platelet counts, Red Blood Cell, Packed Cell Volume and Haemoglobin were significantly lower in hypertensive compared to normotensive (P 0.05). All the parameters were within established reference ranges for the age and sex of the subjects. Our findings show that hypertension may lead to haematological derangement, if not properly managed. Conclusively, haematological parameters can be used to monitor the prognosis of the disease and manage hypertensive related complications. It is important to assess haematological parameters for hypertensive individuals which may help to prevent complications associated with haematological disorders.

Effects of the Incorporation of <i>Dracaena arborea</i>Roots Powder on Growth Performance and Some Haematological Parameters in Guinea Pigs (<i>Cavia porcellus</i>)

The present study was assigned to evaluate the Effect of Dracaena arborea roots powder in ration on growth performances and some hematological parameters in the guinea pig on diet supplemented with graded levels of incorporation. A total of 40 guinea pigs weaned of local breed and aged 3 weeks were divided into 4 identical batches. Each of the groups was randomly assigned one of 4 rations containing different levels of the powder from Dracaena arborea (Da) roots: Da0;Da0.25;Da0.5 and Da0.75. The results at the 11th week of breeding showed that the highest intake (21.13 g/d) was obtained with the Da0.5 ration. The highest live weight (372.50 g) and total weight gains were obtained with the Da0.25 ration. In addition, the highest commercial (161.75 g) and conventional (307.75 g) carcass weights and large intestine length (99.5 cm) were obtained with the D0.25 ration. The highest values for granulocytes (0.250.103/μl), platelets (805.103/μl) and lymphocytes (6.92.103/μl) were respectively, obtained with the rations containing Da0;D0.5 and D0.75. In view of the above, Dracaena arborea roots powder can be used at a rate of 0.25% in the ration, to improve the productivity of the guinea pig (Cavia porcellus).

Haematology Parameters of Apparently Healthy Prospective Whole Blood Donors in a Nigerian Hospital Setting

Background: Adequate selection of a prospective whole blood donor protects his health and safety of the recipient. Objectives: The main objective of this study was to determine the haematology parameters of apparently healthy prospective whole blood donors. Participants and Methods: This was a hospital based prospective study carried out from August to October 2020 at the blood transfusion unit of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, Nigeria. A structured pretested questionnaire was used for data collection. The socio demographic status and the haematology parameters of apparently healthy prospective whole blood donors who tested negative for HIV, hepatitis B and C markers were captured. Obtained data were analysed with the statistical package for the social scientist software version 20. Results: One hundred male (97.1%) and three female (2.9%) apparently healthy prospective whole blood donors were studied. The median age of study subjects was 30 years. Obtained median haematology parameter values were 13 g/dl, 40%, 4.9/nl and 203.9/nl for haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit, total white cell and platelet counts respectively. The median values for the mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of participants were 32.6 g/dl, 27.7 pg and 85.7 fl respectively. Observed prevalence of subnormal haematology parameters for haemoglobin concentration, total white cells, platelets were 12.6%, 25.2%, and 13.6% respectively. Also subnormal values for MCHC, MCH, MCV were 11.7%, 26.2%, and 16.5% respectively among prospective whole blood donors in this study. No higher than normal haematology parameter values were observed. Median values for erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 8.4 mm/hr. Conclusion: A significant percentage of apparently healthy prospective whole blood donors had subnormal haematology parameters values. Obtained normal values in our study are comparable with local reference range reports from previous studies in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. 124947 .

L-Arginine Supplementation Mitigates Dichlorvos-Induced Haematocardiotoxicity, and Oxidative Stress in Male Wistar Rats

Due to its toxicity, dichlorvos—a common organophosphate pesticide—poses significant risks to human health. This study utilized male Wistar rats to explore the potential protective effects of L-arginine supplementation against dichlorvos-induced toxicity, focusing on cardiotoxicity, haematotoxicity and oxidative stress. The rats were divided into four groups: Control, L-arginine (L), Dichlorvos (D), and L-arginine + Dichlorvos (L + D). Dichlorvos was administered to the D group, L-arginine (100 mg/kg) to the L group, and both L-arginine and dichlorvos to the L + D group. The study evaluated various parameters, including cardiovascular, oxidative stress markers, and haematological indices. Significant changes in haematological parameters such as haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (HCT), and red blood cell count (RBC) indicated haematotoxicity after dichlorvos administration. Additionally, elevated cardiac markers, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), suggested cardiotoxic effects. Exposure to dichlorvos also resulted in decreased antioxidant enzyme levels and increased oxidative stress indicators like malondialdehyde (MDA). Remarkably, L-arginine supplementation mitigated the damage caused by dichlorvos. It normalized the altered haematological parameters, demonstrating its protective effect against haematotoxicity. The rise in cardiac markers was reduced with L-arginine supplementation, indicating protection against cardiotoxicity. Moreover, L-arginine significantly decreased oxidative stress, as evidenced by lower MDA levels and restored antioxidant enzyme activity. In conclusion, L-arginine supplementation in male Wistar rats showed promising protective effects against dichlorvos-induced cardiotoxicity, haematotoxicity and oxidative stress. This suggests that L-arginine may offer a beneficial intervention to mitigate the adverse effects of dichlorvos on blood and heart health, paving the way for potential treatments for pesticide poisoning.

Effects of a low-radiotoxicity uranium salt(uranyl acetate) on biochemical and hematological parameters of the catfish,Clarias gariepinus

Specimens of Clarias gariepinus were treated with lethal(70,75,80,85,90,and 95 mg/L) and sub-lethal concentrations(8,12 and 16 mg/L) of uranyl acetate,a low-radiotoxicity uranium salt. The LC 50 value was registered as 81.45 mg/L. The protein and glycogen concentrations in liver and muscles were decreased in the fish exposed to sub-lethal concentrations. The red blood cell(RBC) and white blood cell(WBC) counts,haemoglobin(Hb) concentration and haematocrit(Hct) values were decreased. Different blood indices like mean corpuscular volume(MCV),mean corpuscular haemoglobin(MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration(MCHC) were negatively affected. Level of plasma glucose was elevated whereas protein was decreased. The level of calcium concentration(Ca) was declined in the blood of exposed fish whereas magnesium(Mg) remains unchanged. The activity level of glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase(GOT) and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase(GPT) was elevated in exposed fish. These effects were more pronounced in the last period of exposure and in higher concentrations. Results of the present study indicate that uranyl acetate has adverse effects on C larias gariepinus and causes changes in the biochemical and hematological parameters of the fish.

Protein quality of four indigenous edible insect species in Nigeria

Food security is a serious concern particularly for developing countries.To overcome hunger and malnutrition there is a need for increased research towards finding alternative and cheaper sources of nutrients.Insects have been reported to be rich in protein and could be alternative sources of protein.This work was therefore designed to determine the protein quality of moth caterpillar,termite,cricket and grasshopper and the effects of diets supplemented with these insects on some biochemical and haematological indices of rats.The amino acid compositions of the insects were determined using standard analytical methods.Five iso-nitrogenous and isocaloric diets were formulated on a 10%protein basis with the insects and casein.A Nitrogen free diet was also formulated as control.Thirty six(36)young weanling albino rats(21–28 days old)were divided into 6 groups and fed with the diets ad libitum for 28 days.Their weekly weight gain and daily feed intake were recorded,urine and faeces were collected for nitrogen determination using Kjedahl method and the data obtained used to calculate the various protein quality indices.After the feeding trial periods,the rats were sacrificed,blood samples collected and organs excised for various analyses.Cricket was found to have the highest amino acid score(0.91),protein efficiency ratio(1.78),net protein ratio(3.04)biological value(93.02%)and protein digestibility corrected for amino acid score(0.73)as compared to other insect proteins analysed.The organ body weight ratios of the liver,spleen,lung and heart of rats placed on the insect supplemented diets were not significantly different(p>0.05)from those fed with casein and basal diets.Serum total protein concentrations in rats fed with cricket diet were not significantly different(p>0.05)from those fed casein diet while serum LDL cholesterol concentration was lowest in rats fed cricket diet.The finding in this work that the selected insects are nutritious and safe for consumption may alleviate the fear of entomophagy thereby reducing the overdependence on conventional animal proteins.

Anti-trypanosomal Activity of Bufonidae(Toad)Venom Crude Extract on Trypanosoma brucei brucei in Swiss Mice

Trypanosomiasis afflicts about 6~7 million people globally and to a large extent impedes livestock production in Africa.Naturally,trypanosomal parasites undergo genetic mutation and have developed resistance over a wide range of therapies.The utilization of animals and plants products has presented therapeutic potential for identifying novel anti-trypanosomal drugs.This study evaluated toad venom for anti-trypanosomal potency in-vivo in Swiss mice.Toads were collected from July to August 2019.The acute oral toxicity and biochemical characterization of the toad venom were determined.The experimental mice were administered various doses(130 mg/kg,173 mg/kg and 217 mg/kg)of the toad venom crude extract and 0.75 mg/mL of Diamizan Plus standard drug for the treatment of trypanosomiasis,once daily for 3 days.The in-vivo anti-trypanosomal activity was evaluated by a curative test,after infecting the mice with Trypanosoma brucei brucei.The pre-patent period was 72 hours before treatment commenced.The overall results showed that trypanosomal load was highest in the control group while the group treated with Diamizan drug had the least trypanosomal load.As such,the mean trypanosomal load in relation to treatments showed a very high significant difference(P<0.05).Also,the mean trypanosomal load in Swiss mice in relation to the highest dosage of toad venom versus Diamizan drug showed a very high significant difference(P<0.05).The mean change in relation to the haematological parameters across treatments groups varied significantly(P<0.05)with the exception of Hb which showed no significant difference(P>0.05)across treatment groups.The over 50%reduction in the trypanosomal load in the 130 mg/kg group in comparison with the control group brings to bare the anti-trypanosomal potency of the toad venom.The anti-trypanosomal activity demonstrated by the toad venom has provided basis for development of new therapeutic agents from different toad species.The study recommends further studies(both in-vivo and in-vitro)followed by the characterization of the active compounds present in the toad venom responsible for the anti-tyrpanosomal activity observed alongside the management and conservation of these species.

Effect of Dietary Incorporation of <i>Curcuma longa</i>Powder on Haematology and Serological Properties of Guinea Pigs (<i>Cavia porcellus</i>)

The reduced efficiency of antibiotic growth promoters in livestock, and the unavoidable residual effects on livestock products such as egg, meat and milk have pushed researchers to rush towards the use of phytobiotics in animal feed. This study was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Dschang to evaluate the Effect of Cucurma longa powder as feed additive on hemato-serological parameters in Guinea pigs. A total of 120 three weeks old Guinea pigs (60 males and 60 females), with an average weight of 150 ± 20 g were used. The animals were randomly distributed into four treatments in a completely randomized design with 30 animals per treatment (15 males and 15 females). Four experimental treatments were used by adding 0%, 0.25%, 0.5% and 1% C. longa in the diet corresponding to R0, R0.25%, R0.5% and R1% respectively. At the 8th week of age, 12 Guinea pigs (6 males and 6 females) per treatment were fasted for 12 hours and sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Blood was rapidly collected from the jugular vein for the evaluation of haematological and biochemical parameters. Results revealed that the inclusion of Curcuma longa at 0.25% significantly (p < 0.05) increased the concentration of hematocrit, lymphocytes, monocytes, granulocytes and platelets. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) was observed in hemoglobin, red blood cells, white blood cells, serum lipids, globulin, AST, ALT, and urea. It was concluded that the use of Curcuma longa powder at 0.25% as feed additive positively regulates blood serum parameters of Guinea pigs.

Evaluation of the antidiabetic activity and toxicological properties of Jaundea pinnata(P.Beauv.)

Background:Jaundea pinnata(JP),is a new plant native to North Africa,East Africa,Southern Nigeria,and Guinea.It is traditionally used as an anti-rheumatic,anti-inflammatory,antibacterial and antidiabetic herb,thus making it a potential source for modern antidiabetic medications.Objective:This investigation aimed to assess the toxicological profile and the antidiabetic potentials of the methanol extract of the Jaundea pinnata(JP)leaf in mice and rats.Methods:Preliminary phytochemical screening of JP leaf was conducted using standard procedures.The plant extract’s acute and sub-chronic toxicity was evaluated using a modified OECD recommendation.In normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats,its anti-diabetic action was tested over 28 days at doses of 100 mg/kg,200 mg/kg,and 400 mg/kg,with glibenclamide(10 mg/kg)and distilled water serving as the positive and negative controls,respectively.Relevant organs’histopathological analysis was also assessed.Results:According to the preliminary phytochemical analysis of the leaf extract,JP contains flavonoids,saponins,alkaloids,tannins,terpenoids,deoxy-sugars,and anthraquinones.The extract demonstrated an LD50 of above 2000 mg/kg in mice.On days 14,21,and 28 in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats,the extract showed a dosedependent antidiabetic effect;nevertheless,the activity of the extract at 400 mg/kg on day 28 was barely comparable to that of glibenclamide(10 mg/kg).At 250 mg/kg,500 mg/kg,and 1500 mg/kg,respectively,the extract was appreciably non-toxic to the liver and kidney,while inducing a significant change in haematological indicators.Conclusion:The study found that JP presented antihyperglycemic properties and was relatively safe at normal dosages(<2000 mg/kg).

The Antihypertensive Effect of Hydro-methanolic Extract of Tulbaghia acutiloba Harv.in L-NAME induced Hypertensive Rats

Background:Traditional use of Tulbaghia acutiloba(TA)in South Africa includes treating various illnesses,such as infectious diseases and hypertension.However,the effect of this indigenous plant on renal and haematological parameters(as indicators of antihypertensive efficacy)has not been investigated yet.Objective:This study aimed to evaluate the change of renal and haematological parameters after treatment with the hydro-methanolic extract of the leaf of Tulbaghia acutiloba Harv.in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats.Methods:Male albino Wistar rats received an oral dose of 50 mg·kg^(-1)body weight(bw)of N𝜔-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride(L-NAME)daily for 5 weeks.Five groups(7 animals in each group)were identified to receive different treatments as concurrent daily doses of(40,60 and 80 mg·kg^(-1)bw),ramipril(10 mg·kg^(-1)bw)(positive control)and water(hypertension model).Mean arterial blood pressure was measured weekly using the tail-cuffmethod.A 24-hour urine sample was collected for each rat weekly.On day 36,the rats were euthanized,and blood samples were collected for the determination of renal function and haematological analysis.Kidney mRNA gene expression was performed for NF-kB,Ho1 and eNos.Results:The treatment of the hypertensive rats with TA resulted in a significant reduction in the mean arterial blood pressure,with a pronounced effect observed in the 80 mg·kg^(-1)dose of TA compared to the positive control.The TA-treated group showed increased creatinine clearance(Ccr),urine volume and a reduction in serum crea-tinine,proteinuria and urine protein-creatinine ratio(UPr/UCr).TA treatment also decreased lipid peroxidation in renal tissues and erythrocytes while increasing SOD,CAT,GSH and NO levels.Moreover,red cell distribu-tion width(RDW),white blood cells(WBC),neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio(NLR),lymphocyte to monocyte ratio(LMR),platelet and mean platelet volume(MPV)were significantly reduced in the TA and ramipril treated groups with the maximum effect occurring at the dose of 80 mg·kg-1 of TA.No significant difference was observed in the haemoglobin levels in all experimental groups.TA administration resulted in a significant decrease in renal NF-kB gene expression while increasing Ho1 and eNos gene expression in renal tissues.Conclusion:TA extract improved renal function and haematological profile(markers for the antihypertensive efficacy)in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats.

Evaluation of the Antidiabetic Activity and Toxicological Properties of Hippocratea Velutina (Afzel.)

Background:Hippocratea velutina(HV)is a novel plant folklorically used for lowering blood glucose,hence a potential source of new antidiabetic medication.Objective:The study evaluated the anti-diabetic potentials of the methanol extract of Hippocratea velutina leaf and its toxicity profile in mice and rats.Methods:Acute and subacute toxicity tests of the plant extract were carried out by using a modified OECD guideline.Its antidiabetic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats at 50,150,and 300 mg/kg for 28 days was assayed,while glibenclamide(5 mg/kg)and distilled water were the positive and negative controls,respectively.Histopathological examination of vital organs was also carried out.Results:Preliminary phytochemical screening of the leaf extract showed the presence of tannins,flavonoids,saponins,alkaloids,terpenoids,deoxy-sugars,and anthraquinones in HV.The extract had LD 50 greater than 2000 mg/kg in mice.It had no toxic effects on the haematological and biochemical components from blood samples collected but caused significant blood glucose level reduction in normal rats at 150 and 300 mg/kg.In streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats,the extract elicited a non-dose-dependent antidiabetic effect on day seven at all the tested doses,significantly higher than glibenclamide(10 mg/kg).However,on days 14,21,and 28,the extract activity at all the tested doses and glibenclamide were comparable.The extract did not affect the liver,brain,kidney,and pancreas histology at 200 mg/kg but caused slight and severe effects on these organs at 400 and 800 mg/kg,respectively.Conclusion:The study concluded that Hippocratea velutina possessed antihyperglycaemic activity and was non-toxic at low doses but could have deleterious effects to the liver and kidney at high concentrations.

Methanol extracts of Basella alba leaves alleviate stress in rats

Objective:Stress is becoming an unavoidable threat in recent times,there has been increasing interest by researchers in the use of naturally occurring biologically active compounds with medicinal value to cure body ailments.The present work was carried out to investigate the effect of methanol extract of Basella alba leaves on stress in Wistar rats(Rattus norvegicus).Methods:A total of 35 male rats were used in this study.They were grouped into seven groups of five rats each.Group 1(normal control)was received 10 m L/kg normal saline.Group 2 contained restraint stress rats only.Group 3 contained forced swim stress rats only.Group 4 and 5 were treated with 60 mg/kg of B.alba extract(BAE)thereafter subjected to restraint and forced swim stresses respectively.Group 6 and 7 were treated with 120 mg/kg of BAE thereafter subjected to restraint and forced swim stresses respectively.Stress procedures were carried out at the end of first and third weeks.Results:In the stressed rats,there were significant increases(P<0.05)in fasting blood glucose and white blood cell count while there were significant decreases in superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione concentration when compared to group 1.There were significant decreases(P<0.05)in blood glucose and white blood cell count and significant increases in superoxide dismutase and glutathione concentrations in BAE treated rats when compared to group 2 and 3.Some of the significant differences were either dose or duration dependent.Conclusion:In conclusion,results from this research suggest that BAE alleviates hyperglycaemia,chronic activation of immune system and generation of free radicals due to stress in Wistar rats.