Research Articles (Medical Bioscience)

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A core outcome set for future male infertility research: development of an international consensus
(Oxford University Press, 2025) Henkel, Ralf Reinhold; Rimmer, Michael P; Howie, Ruth A
Objective: To develop a core outcome set for male infertility trials. Design: A two-round Delphi survey and consensus development workshop were undertaken with healthcare professionals, researchers and clinicians globally. Subjects: 334 participants from 39 countries participated in the Delphi Survey, while 44 participants from 21 countries participated in the consensus development workshop. Exposure: NA Main Outcome Measures: The core outcome set for male infertility trials has been developed by the inclusion of specific male-factor outcomes in addition to the general infertility core outcome set which focuses on female-factor outcomes. Results: The outcomes identified include assessment of semen using the World Health Organisation recommendations for semen analysis; viable intrauterine pregnancy confirmed by ultrasound (accounting for singleton, twin and higher multiple pregnancies); pregnancy loss (accounting for ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth and termination of pregnancy); live birth; gestational age at delivery; birthweight; neonatal mortality; and major congenital anomaly. Although not a requirement as part of the core outcome set, other outcomes were identified as potentially useful in certain study settings. Conclusion: Embedding the core outcome set within RCTs and systematic reviews should ensure the comprehensive selection, collection and reporting of core outcomes, which are inconsistently reported at present. Research funding bodies, the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) statement, and over 80 specialty journals, including the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group, Fertility and Sterility and Human Reproduction, have committed to implementing this core outcome set for male infertility trials. Trial Registration Number: Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) initiative registration No: 1586. Available at www.comet-initiative.org/Studies/Details/1586
Novel strategies to profile SARS-CoV-2 and human lung proteome: inflammatory pathways in the spotlight
(John Wiley and Sons Ltd, 2025) Mvubu, Nontobeko; Mankayi E.; Chiliza T.E
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, has caused widespread morbidity and mortality worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers innate and adaptive immune responses, but excessive cytokine release can drive hyperinflammation, acute respiratory distress syndrome and poor clinical outcomes. Although serological and molecular assays, such as ELISA and RT-qPCR, remain central to COVID-19 diagnostics, they have limited capacity to reveal host–pathogen interactions at the tissue level. Therefore, profiling the human lung proteome offers a powerful strategy to identify molecular signatures associated with viral pathogenesis and disease severity. This review emphasises emerging technologies that advance lung proteome profiling during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Novel strategies include phage display for high-throughput identification of antibody–antigen interactions, yeast two-hybrid for mapping virus–host protein interactions and lateral flow immunoassays for rapid, point-of-care detection. Conversely, omics-based technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, microarrays and mass spectrometry are transforming our understanding of the lung proteome by revealing patterns of gene expression, protein abundance and immune heterogeneity. Therefore, comparing these conventional diagnostic assays with innovative approaches, we highlight their unique contributions to lung proteome research. These tools not only improve diagnostic precision but also hold the potential to uncover biomarkers for early risk stratification and therapeutic targeting. Prioritising integrative proteome-focused strategies may ultimately guide personalised interventions and enhance preparedness for future viral outbreaks.
Overcoming curcumin's limitations: synthetic derivatives in diabetes and cancer management
(Wiley-VCH Verlag, 2025) Adeleye, Adesola Oluwaseun; Dena, Simon Mwaringa; Titinchi, Salam; Opuwari, Chinyerum S.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes and cancer, are chronic medical conditions characterised by their persistent nature and gradual progression. They pose a significant challenge to global public health due to their widespread impact and increasing prevalence worldwide. According to the 2021 International Diabetes Federation atlas reports, 10.5% of adults worldwide currently live with diabetes, a figure projected to reach 783 million by 2045. Furthermore, cancer is one of the world's top causes of death, as reported by the WHO. Although synthetic drugs are widely used to manage these diseases, they often come with adverse side effects such as suppression of blood cell production, inflammation of mucous membranes, hair loss, and nausea. Curcumin, an active compound found in turmeric, has attracted interest due to its therapeutic potential in treating both diabetes and cancer, largely owing to its favourable safety profile, as evidenced by preclinical and clinical data. Nevertheless, poor bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and low stability in living systems have limited its clinical application. To address these limitations, recent research has focused on developing synthetic curcumin derivatives with improved pharmacokinetic properties. This review examines the antidiabetic and anticancer potentials of these derivatives, emphasising research data from both in vivo and in vitro studies. The paper also highlights how structural modifications significantly enhance their biological activity and provides a comparative mechanistic discussion linking diabetes and cancer at the molecular level, and translational gaps that define future research directions. This dual perspective in mechanisms distinguishes the present review from earlier works that examined curcumin's therapeutic potential in isolation within diabetes or cancer frameworks.
HIV-1 viral protein effect on cerebral microvasculature: an in vitro blood–brain barrier model
(American Physiological Society, 2025) Willemse, Chontrelle; Makhathini, Khayelihle Brian; Fisher, David
The central nervous system (CNS) serves as a sanctuary for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which is facilitated by HIV's ability to breach the blood–brain barrier (BBB). BBB dysfunction occurs in the earliest stages of an HIV-1 infection. The immune-privileged CNS reduces harmful inflammatory responses, detrimental to the neuronal environment. BBB disruption, however, contributes to comorbidities in HIV, like cerebrovascular disease and neurocognitive problems. A 2-dimensional in vitro BBB model was employed to assess the effect of HL2/3 cell paracrine factors on select physiological parameters: cell proliferation, viability, toxicity, suppression, and morphology. BBB integrity was assessed using trans endothelial electrical resistance measurements. The study utilized immortalized mouse brain endothelial cell monocultures and co-cultures with the HL2/3 cell line, emulating an in vivo HIV-1 effect on the BBB.A concentration- dependent decline in cellular proliferation rates and viability was observed upon exposure to HL2/3 paracrine factors. Moreover, an elevation in cellular suppression, cell death, and cell toxicity was observed. Permeability studies confirmed decreased permeability after exposure to HIV-1 viral proteins in select in vitro BBB model systems. The impact of HIV viral proteins on brain capillary endothelium is critical to elucidate pathogen-induced cerebrovascular disease progression and vascular cognitive impairment in patients.
Evaluation of the divergent effects of pyrethroid and D-allethrin-based coils fumes in male Wistar rats
(Korean Society of Environmental Health and Toxicology, 2025) Badmus, Jelili Abiodun; Hiss, Donavon Charles; Fatoki, John Olabode
Mosquito coil fume is a cheap and commonly used method of reducing malaria incidence in third-world countries. The effects of fumes from pyrethroid and D-allethrin-based mosquito coils available in the Nigerian market were assessed in male Wistar rats. The rats were exposed to the insecticide fumes for 7, 14, and 21 days, while another group served as a control. The experiment consisted of seven randomly divided groups of six weight-matched animals per group. Plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), cholesterol, phospholipids, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein phospholipid (HDL-P) were evaluated. Lung-, liver-and kidney-reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxide (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde/lipid peroxidation (MDA) and lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) were also evaluated. Histoimmunochemistry was used to assess lung p53 and Bcl-2 expressions. Pyrethroid and D-allethrin-based fumes induced a significant (p < 0.05) increase in plasma AST, LDH, cholesterol, phospholipids, and HDL-P, with a reduction of HDL-C levels. The fumes significantly and differently dysregulated antioxidant enzymes. The inhalations of the fumes induced significant (p < 0.05) increases in kidney MDA and LOOH levels, liver MDA by pyrethroid fume, and lung MDA by D-allethrin only, but lung LOOH by inhalations of both fumes. The increased expression of lung p53 and repression of Bcl-2 by both fumes were duration-dependent. The fume-induced disproportionate tissue function biomarkers, redox status, and apoptosis-related proteins. These effects are a possible panoply of divergent modes by which exposure to coil fumes can be deleterious to human health.
Editorial commentary: early exposure, lifelong damage: evidence of cardiac damage from childhood smoking
(Elsevier Inc., 2025) Ras, Tammy
In this issue of Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine, the review article by Corsi and Agbaje provides up-to-date evidence of the early insults of childhood smoking on the growing heart. The study focuses specifically on the long-term effects of both direct smoking and second-hand smoke exposure on cardiac structure and function. In addition, it addresses a critical public health concern as the prevalence of smoking in childhood and adolescents is becoming a substantial public health concern, where the prevalence has been shown to increase with age, with the majority (60 %) of children continuing to smoke into their early to late adulthood. Adolescents born to smoking mothers are also more likely to initiate smoking as adolescent smoking is associated
Epidemiological characteristics and temporal trends of male infertility in Egypt (2012–2022): analysis of 3,037 consecutive cases
(Taylor and Francis Ltd., 2025) Henkel, Ralf; Saleh, Ramadan; Elsuity, Mohamad A
Background: Male factors contribute to about half of global infertility cases, yet regional data are limited, particularly in Egypt. Objective: To characterize the sociodemographic, clinical, seminal, and hormonal profiles of infertile Egyptian men and investigate their correlations. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of infertile men presented to a single busy andrology/infertility center in Egypt between June 2012 and May 2022. Demographic, clinical, seminal, and hormonal data were reviewed, and trends and correlations were assessed. Results: Of 3,037 men, primary infertility accounted for 76.13%, with a median infertility duration of 4 years. Varicocele was observed in 66.47% of cases, predominantly second-degree. Asthenozoospermia (31.74%), oligoasthenozoospermia (20.78%), and azoospermia (9.12%) were the most frequent semen abnormalities. Median sperm concentration was 24 million/ml, progressive motility 25%, and normal morphology 10%. From 2012 to 2022, median sperm concentration declined from 24 million/ml to 18 million/ml (p = 0.2), progressive motility declined from 25% to 17% (p < 0.001), and normal sperm morphology declined from 10% to 5% (p < 0.001). The COVID-19 pandemic period (2020–2022) exhibited the most prominent reduction in sperm progressive motility (from 21% to 17%; p < 0.001). Smoking negatively correlated with all sperm parameters. Follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels correlated negatively with semen quality and testicular volume but positively with infertility duration. Neither varicocele grade nor total testosterone levels correlated significantly with sperm parameters. Conclusion: This study identified primary infertility, varicocele diagnosis and asthenozoospermia as predominant findings among infertile Egyptian men. Over a decade, temporal declines in sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were observed, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Smoking and elevated gonadotropins negatively influenced semen quality and testicular volume, whereas testosterone levels and varicocele grade showed no significant correlation. These findings highlight the importance of developing integrated, region-specific strategies to address male infertility.
Aloe ferox, Agathosma betulina, and Bulbine frutescens extracts show antifungal activity at concentrations favourable to the proliferation of epidermal cells
(Elsevier GmbH, 2025) Ndlovu, Banele; Klaasen, Jeremy; Abrantes, Pedro; Africa, Charlene; Fisher (née Rahiman), Farzana
Introduction: The increasing prevalence of antifungal resistance presents an enormous challenge to healthcare professionals. The adverse effects and resistance of current antifungal drugs have prompted the need for alternate antifungal therapy in the form of natural products. Although anecdotal reports have suggested that Aloe ferox, Agathosma betulina, and Bulbine frutescens have been used to successfully treat fungal skin infections, little scientific evidence is available to validate these claims. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether the concentrations of A ferox, A betulina, and B frutescens hydroethanolic extracts showing antifungal activity against skin-related Candida species are cytotoxic to normal human epidermal cells. Methods: Crystal violet and lactate dehydrogenase assays were employed to determine cell viability and cytotoxicity on the human epidermal cells. Broth microdilutions were performed to evaluate the susceptibility of Candida species to plant extracts. Results: Candida spp. inhibition was observed at a concentration of 200 µg/ml, while optimum extract concentrations for cell proliferation ranged between 200 and 400 µg/ml for B frutescens and 200 µg/ml for A ferox and A betulina. This suggests that these plants could prove to be effective as antifungal agents at a dosage of 200 µg/ml while still supporting the growth of epidermal cells at the same concentration, which is an important process in maintaining healthy skin. Conclusions: These findings from this study lay a foundation for further studies confirming the applicability of these medicinal plants as safe alternative antifungal treatments that promote skin cell proliferation, regeneration, and enhance tissue repair.
Association of platelet to albumin ratio with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease based on the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2017–2018
(Nature Research, 2025) Fisher, David; Xie, Jiao; He, Qingliu
The prevalence and incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are significantly increasing globally, but the index of non-invasive disease is limited. Platelet-albumin ratio(PAR) is a non-invasive biomarker of inflammation, the aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between PAR and MASLD. This population-based cross-sectional retrospective study analyzed data extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) database from 2017 to 2018. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between PAR and MASLD in different models. Model I was unadjusted, model II adjusted for race, sex and age, and model III was adjusted based on model II plus smoking status, hypertension, and diabetes. Further subgroup analysis was carried out according to sex, age, hypertension and diabetes status. The study involved 3287 participants, of whom 873 (26.5%) were diagnosed with MASLD. The PAR level in MASLD group was significantly higher than non-MASLD group (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that high PAR level was an independent risk factor for MASLD (OR = 2.58, 95%CI: 1.26–5.27, P = 0.03), which adjusted for sex, age, race, smoking status, hypertension, and diabetes.The same results were observed in multiple subgroups of further subgroup analysis, and it can effectively predict the risk of MASLD (AUC = 0.842, 95% CI: 0.826–0.859). In conclusion, the new biomarker PAR shows a positive correlation with the risk of MASLD in the population, and can be used as a biomarker of MASLD to help clinicians identify people at high risk of MASLD.
Exposure profiles to Benzophenones and their impacts on thyroid hormones in pregnant women
(Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH, 2025) Ralf, Henkel; Abderrezak, Khelfi; Houyam, Askoufes
Purpose: Benzophenones are ubiquitous compounds widely used in various industrial and consumer products including sunscreens, plastics, and personal care items. Their presence as emerging pollutants has raised concerns due to their potential adverse health effects, particularly as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The aim of this study was to identify exposure profiles to Benzophenones in pregnant women living in Algiers and to explore associations between urinary levels of these compounds and disruptions of thyroid hormones levels during pregnancy. Methods: This study was carried out on 384 pregnant women. After gathering necessary information using a questionnaire, blood and urine samples were collected. Thyroid hormones (TSH, FT3, and FT4) were measured by electrochemiluminescence while Benzophenones (BP-1, BP-2, and BP-3) were detected by LC-MS/MS. Results: BP-1, BP-2, and BP-3 were detected in 91.9%, 56.5%, and 88.3% of the analyzed samples, respectively. Mean concentrations were 2.250, 0.178, and 2.067 µg/g creatinine for BP-1, BP-2, and BP-3, respectively. Significant negative associations were found between plasma levels of FT3 and urinary concentrations of both BP-1 (β = -0.101) and BP-3 (β = -0.110). Moreover, significant positive associations were recorded between urinary concentrations of both BP-1 and BP-3 and the application of makeup. Conclusion: In conclusion, exposure of pregnant women to Benzophenones may affect levels of thyroid hormones resulting in possible adverse health effects on the mother and the development of the child. Therefore, preventive measures limiting exposure to these EDCs are recommended.
IGFBP3-mediated effects of an effective combination therapy on HCC
(Nature Research, 2025) Fisher, David; Chen, Lin; Zhao, Lei
As all known, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the majority of cases of liver cancer, which is the third leading cause of cancer mortality globally. Moreover, HCC is always accompanied with HBV infection. Here, we used CMAP, a systematic approach for the discovery of functional connections among diseases and drug actions, to identify quercetin as an effective compound to potentially treat HCC. Furthermore, we proved the inhibitory effects of quercetin on HCC cells, shown as decreased cell viability in HCCLM3 and HepG2 cells. In addition, quercetin disturbed the migration of HCC cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, quercetin treatments effectively elevated the activities of caspase-3 as well as caspase-9 and increased the Bax expression in HCC cells accompanied with decreased levels of p53 and BCL-2, indicating an enhancement of apoptosis induced by quercetin. Notably, quercetin depressed the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including SOD, GST, GPx and CAT, leading to an increase of ROS accumulation. Additionally, quercetin also exhibited an obvious inhibition of tumor growth of HCC in vivo. Through RNA-seq, results showed that genes related to regulation of cell proliferations were enriched, in which IGFBP3 played a critical role in mediating the effects of quercetin on HCC cells by reducing PI3K-mTOR activation. After silencing IGFBP3 in HCCLM3 cells, quercetin exhibited weaken effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis. Notably, IGFBP3 promotor strengthened the suppressed effects induced by single quercetin administration, indicating a potential drug combination for treatments of HCC. Collectively, this study clarified a novel mechanism underlying the inhibitory effects of quercetin on HCC, providing a potential approach for HCC treatment in clinic.
Carotid intima–media thickness and endothelial function in adolescents exposed to alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking in utero: a mediation analysis
(BioMed Central Ltd, 2025) Hartel, Tammy; Oelofse, André; De Smidt, Juléy
Background: Previous studies have shown the effects of teratogen exposure in utero on the vascular system, but its direct and indirect effects are still questionable. Therefore, this study explored the effects of potential mediators of teratogen exposure on carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT) and flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Methods: This study was conducted between January 2022 and August 2024 in Cape Town, South Africa, and included 307 adolescents (aged 10–14) and their mothers. Anthropometry data, lipid profiles, systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), physical activity and maternal health behaviours were obtained. Vascular measurements (left and right cIMT and brachial artery FMD) were obtained via ultrasound, which included analysing the peak artery diameter separately. Statistical analyses were performed via SPSS® version 29, and mediation analyses were conducted via PROCESS Macros. Results: The cohort included a control group (n = 105), tobacco-exposed individuals (n = 115), dual-exposed individuals (tobacco and alcohol) (n = 73), and alcohol-exposed individuals (n = 14). A significant positive correlation was observed between alcohol exposure duration and LcIMT (rho = 0.531, p < 0.05), and a strong negative correlation was observed with peak diameter (rho=-0.788, p < 0.001), with a very strong correlation in males (r=-0.894, p < 0.05). The duration of alcohol exposure significantly affected LcIMT (p = 0.0468) after adjusting for body mass index (BMI), SBP and DBP. However, brachial artery (BA) peak diameter was not significantly associated with the duration of alcohol consumption during pregnancy after the adjustment for age, SBP or BA baseline diameter. Conclusion: Increased BMI and SBP may contribute to a reduced peak diameter in adolescents exposed to alcohol, potentially indicating lower FMD in adulthood. Further studies should elucidate the biological mechanisms involved through long-term prospective studies.
Protective effects of Aspalathus linearis against oxidative stress in human spermatozoa: Comparison with ascorbic acid
(Elsevier, 2025) Takalani Ndivhuho Beauty; Monsees Thomas Klaus; Henkel Ralf; Opuwari Chinyerum Sylvia
Aspalathus linearis extracts protect human spermatozoa from oxidative stress in vitro. Rooibos extracts reduce oxidation-reduction potential induced by cumene hydroperoxide. Rooibos shows comparable or superior antioxidant effects to ascorbic acid. Treatment preserves sperm motility, viability, mitochondrial function, and DNA integrity. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to male infertility due to its detrimental effects on sperm function. This study determined the antioxidant potential of fermented and unfermented rooibos extracts compared to ascorbic acid in protecting human spermatozoa from oxidative damage induced by cumene hydroperoxide. Semen samples from 25 healthy donors were processed and exposed to 100 µM cumene hydroperoxide, with treatment groups receiving varying concentrations of rooibos extracts or ascorbic acid. Sperm parameters, including motility, viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA fragmentation, reactive oxygen species, capacitation, and acrosome reaction, were assessed after 60 and 120 minutes. Human tubular fluid supplemented with bovine serum albumin was used as a negative control, while cumene hydroperoxide alone served as the positive control. Both rooibos extracts and ascorbic acid significantly reduced oxidative stress, measured by static oxidation-reduction potential, compared to the positive control (p < 0.0001). Treatment improved sperm motility, viability, mitochondrial function, capacitation, and acrosome reaction, while decreasing DNA fragmentation and reactive oxygen species levels (p < 0.05). Rooibos exhibited antioxidant effects comparable to ascorbic acid. Aspalathus linearis extracts effectively protect human spermatozoa against oxidative damage and preserve essential functional parameters, supporting their potential use as natural antioxidants in male fertility management.
An outbreak of measles in Iraq
(University of Anbar, 2024) Al-Ani, Raid; Abdul-Rasool, Sahar
Measles is a highly contagious illness which can be prevented by a vaccine. It needs to be interrupted from transmission through population based immunity. The causative agent (measles virus) is a negative strand ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus. Measles is considered a serious public health problem because its causative virus is transmitted through droplets or aerosols, can induce systemic infection, and suppress the immune response even following a long period of getting the infection. The standard vaccination of children against measles is through attaining a two-dose immunization schedule, as a single dose can only provide 15% immunity. It is necessary to reach and maintain 95% of the population immunization against measles. Despite the presence of an effective and safe attenuated live virus vaccine, measles is still considered a dangerous disease worldwide resulting in the death of 136,000 (mostly children) in the year 2022. Measles outbreaks are suspected and should be declared when the number of cases reported in a region exceeds the usual number of cases. The increment rate of reported measles cases and deaths from this illness in 2022 is 18% and 43% respectively, in comparison with the year 2021 across the globe.
Corilagin alleviates atherosclerosis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the Olfr2 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo
(Frontiers Media SA, 2024) Mao, Jinqian; Fisher, David
Introduction: Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of global cardiovascular mortality, is characterized by chronic inflammation. Central to this process is the NOD-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, which significantly influences atherosclerotic progression. Recent research has identified that the olfactory receptor 2 (Olfr2) in vascular macrophages is instrumental in driving atherosclerosis through NLRP3- dependent IL-1 production. Methods: To investigate the effects of corilagin, noted for its anti-inflammatory attributes, on atherosclerotic development and the Olfr2 signaling pathway, our study employed an atherosclerosis model in ApoE−/− mice, fed a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet, alongside cellular models in Ana-1 cells and mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages, stimulated with lipopolysaccharides and oxidized low-density lipoprotein. Results: The vivo and vitro experiments indicated that corilagin could effectively reduce serum lipid levels, alleviate aortic pathological changes, and decrease intimal lipid deposition. Additionally, as results showed, corilagin was able to cut down expressions of molecules associated with the Olfr2 signaling pathway. Discussion: Our findings indicated that corilagin effectively inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation, consequently diminishing inflammation, macrophage polarization, and pyroptosis in the mouse aorta and cellular models via the Olfr2 pathway. This suggests a novel therapeutic mechanism of corilagin in the treatment of atherosclerosis.
The effect of garcinia livingstonei aqueous leaf extract on hyperglycaemic-induced human sperm cell: An in-vitro study
(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Opuwari, Chinyerum Sylvia; Nethengwe, Murendeni; Okaiyeto, Kunle
Hyperglycaemia is the main instigator of the development of male infertility in men with diabetes mellitus (DM). The consequent production of excessive reactive oxidative species (ROS) and a compromised antioxidant defence system leads to testicular damage and a decline in sperm parameters. Supplementation with antioxidants sourced from medicinal plants is beneficial in the treatment of DM-related male infertility. However, a search for more efficacious and easily accessibly medicinal plants is paramount. Garcinia livingstonei is a well-known and accessible medicinal plant used in traditional practices for the treatment of diabetic complications. However, very scarce information on the plant extract's potential benefits exists in the literature. The current study investigated the effect of aqueous leaf extract of G. livingstonei on hyperglycaemic human male sperm cell parameters. Hyperglycaemia was induced using sperm media supplemented with 100 mM D-glucose over 24 h. Hyperglycaemia induction led to a significant (P<0.05) decline in sperm motility, vitality, DNA integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and acrosome integrity. The effect of the plant extract on spermatozoa was concentration-dependent, with the lowest concentration demonstrating the highest protective effects. A significant (P<0.05) improvement in all tested sperm parameters was observed after exposure of the hyperglycaemic spermatozoa to aqueous leaf extract of G. livingstonei. The effect of acarbose on all tested sperm parameters was comparable to that of the plant extract. The findings of this study suggest the potential therapeutic effect of G. livingstonei in the treatment of DM-related male infertility. However, the use of an appropriate dosage depending on the pathological target is paramount.
An evaluation of the potential radiosensitization effect of spherical gold nanoparticles to induce cellular damage using different radiation qualities
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025) Engelbrecht-Roberts, Monique; de Kock, Maryna; Miles, Xanthene
Global disparities in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment demand a unified international effort to reduce the disease’s burden and improve outcomes. Despite advances in chemotherapy and radiotherapy, many tumors remain resistant to these treatments. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have shown promise as radiosensitizers, enhancing the effectiveness of low-energy X-rays by emitting Auger electrons that cause localized cellular damage. In this study, spherical AuNPs of 5 nm and 10 nm were characterized and tested on various cell lines, including malignant breast cells (MCF-7), non-malignant cells (CHO-K1 and MCF-10A), and human lymphocytes. Cells were treated with AuNPs and irradiated with attenuated 6 megavoltage (MV) X-rays or p(66)/Be neutron radiation to assess DNA double-strand break (DSB) damage, cell viability, and cell cycle progression. The combination of AuNPs and neutron radiation induced higher levels of γ-H2AX foci and micronucleus formation compared to treatments with AuNPs or X-ray radiation alone. AuNPs alone reduced cellular kinetics and increased the accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase, suggesting a block of cell cycle progression. For cell proliferation, significant effects were only observed at the concentration of 50 μg/mL of AuNPs, while lower concentrations had no inhibitory effect. Further research is needed to quantify internalized AuNPs and correlate their concentration with the observed cellular effects to unravel the biological mechanisms of their radioenhancement.
The role of hyperglycaemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation in diabetes-related male infertility: therapeutic properties of medicinal plants
(Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, 2025) Opuwari, Chinyerum S.; Nethengwe, Murendeni; Okaiyeto, Kunle; Oguntibeju, Oluwafemi O.
The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) continues to rise at an alarming rate. DM leads to a decline in male reproductive function. Hyperglycaemia is an instigator of both oxidative stress and inflammation in the male reproductive system. The presence of excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory markers in the semen of diabetic individuals results in the decline of sperm parameters. Despite ongoing advancements in the treatment of DM with conventional drugs, concern about treatment costs and side effects is high. Scientific research focus has therefore shifted to investigating naturally occurring safer, cheaper, and more effective treatments. This review outlined the link between hyperglycaemia and diabetic complications, and the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in the development of male infertility. We also reviewed the effects of phytochemicals in medicinal plants in treating DM-related male infertility. This review concluded that oxidative stress and inflammation are instigators of the decline in sperm parameters in diabetic conditions. The administration of medicinal plant extracts with hypoglycaemic, anti-diabetic, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties can potentially restore diabetic-related male reproductive dysfunction.
Sex differences in adiposity and hemodynamic parameters as cardiovascular risk indicators among South African university staff: a descriptive cross-sectional study
(BioMed Central Ltd, 2025) Azu, Onyemaechi Okpara; Gogoba, Sibusiso; Olojede, Samuel Oluwaseun
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, with their prevalence continuing to rise each year. Adiposity indexes and hemodynamic parameters have been established as effective predictors of CVDs when analysed separately. However, the impact of sex differences on the distribution and combined use of these predictors remains largely unexplored, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to investigate the sex differences in the distribution of adiposity indexes (AI) and hemodynamic parameters (HP), as well as their associated indicators of cardiovascular diseases risks among staff members at Walter Sisulu University (WSU). Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive quantitative study was conducted on 100 healthy adults (50 males, 50 females) aged 18–65 years. AI were assessed using a stadiometer, body composition monitor, and tape measure, while HP were measured with a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer. Results: The study’s findings revealed that mean values for AI, including height, visceral adiposity index, and waist circumference, were higher in males compared to females, while weight, body mass index, and hip circumference were greater in females. Additionally, the study indicated that mean values for HP, such as systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure, were elevated in males, whereas pulse pressure was higher in females. Notably, heart rate was consistent across both sexes. Conclusion: This study provides useful information about the sex-based patterns of adiposity indices and hemodynamic distribution among selected South African populations
Does cooling affect skeletal muscle glycogen replenishment after an acute bout of fear-induced exertional hyperthermia in blesbok (damaliscus pygargus phillipsi)?
(Elsevier Inc., 2025) Kohn, Tertius; Martin, Mahmooda; van Boom, Kathryn
Rhabdomyolyses is a clinical sign of capture myopathy in wild animals and may be linked to glycogen metabolism. To study potential mechanisms, 26 wild blesbok were chased for 15 min and immobilised, whereafter 12 of these blesbok were doused with ice-water (n = 14 chased only group; n = 12 chased + cooled group). An additional 12 blesbok served as resting (not chased) uncooled controls. Vastus lateralis biopsies were obtained after immobilisation for biochemical analyses. Biopsies obtained at initial capture, 3- and 16-days post exercise were analysed for glycogen content. Blesbok muscles contained predominantly myosin heavy chain (MHC) IIA (∼50 ± 9 %), followed by IIX (32 ± 10 %) and MHC I (18 ± 5 %), with no difference between groups. Citrate synthase (mean: 87 ± 48), 3-hydroxyacetyl co A dehydrogenase (47 ± 17), lactate dehydrogenase (1567 ± 654), phosphorylase (162 ± 94), phosphofructokinase (250 ± 123) and creatine kinase (12,455 ± 6372) activities (in μmol/min/g prot) were not different between groups. Similarly, superoxide dismutase (7.9 ± 7 U/mg prot), catalase (8.8 ± 5.8 mmol/min/g prot), and overall antioxidant capacity (ORAC: 23055 ± 18,460 μmol/g prot) were not different between groups. Glycogen content was reduced in both chased groups and not replenished by day 3. Glycogen supercompensation was observed on day 16 in both chased groups (∼33 % higher than resting control group). The results confirm that blesbok have high muscle metabolic capacities, and that glycogen resynthesis is slow, which could lead to metabolite deficiency during prolonged chase events (>15 min).

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