Ethanolic extract of Persea americana Mill. (Lauraceae) seeds induced antiestrogenic effects in young female Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVES: The ethanol extract of Persea americana seeds was found to inhibit the development of estrogen-dependent conditions in female Wistar rats, suggesting the ability of its secondary metabolites to interact with estrogen receptors (ERs), either as partial agonists or as antagonists. To test this hypothesis, the abovementioned extract was assessed for its ability to mimic and/or antagonize estradiol effects. METHODS: Two experiments were conducted in ovariectomized (OVX) rats: (1) animals were treated with estradiol valerate (E2V; 1 mg/kg) or P. americana at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg; (2) animals were treated with E2V alone (0.75 mg/kg) or in combination with P. americana at the abovementioned doses. Treatments were given orally for 3 days and animals were sacrificed for biochemical and histological analyses of the uterus and vagina. RESULTS: When administered alone, P. americana did not change the histomorphology of both organs (uterus and vagina). In combination with E2V, P. americana decreased uterine weight [30 % decrease (p<0.001) at 25 mg/kg and 24 % (p<0.01) at 50 mg/kg] and epithelium height (37 % decrease). This was associated with decreased estradiol levels (at least 86 % decrease, p<0.001) in the uterus. Similarly, vagina epithelium height decreased by at least 34 % (p<0.05) when E2V was co-administered with P. americana. CONCLUSIONS: The seed extract of P. americana contains ER antagonist secondary metabolites accounting for its ability to inhibit the development of estrogen-dependent conditions in female rats.

Aphrodisiac and androgenic effects of the aqueous extract of the roots of Vepris afzelii on cyproterone acetate-induced hypogonadism in rat.

This work aimed to evaluate the effects of the aqueous extract of Vepris afzelii roots on a rat model of hypogonadism. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity of the extract were performed using different procedures. Hypogonadism was induced orally in adult Wistar rats using cyproterone acetate (30 mg/kg) for ten days. Besides six normal rats (10 ml/kg of distilled water, normal control), 30 hypogonadal rats were subdivided into five groups of six animals each, receiving for 14 days: distilled water (10 ml/kg, hypogonadal control), testosterone (4 mg/kg/3days) and the extract of V. afzelii (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg). Sexual behavior, sperm parameters, testes function and structure were assessed. Compared to the normal controls, significant (p = 0.0000) increases in mount (24 ± 0.94 seconds vs. 1200 ± 00 seconds) and intromission (49.16 ± 10.85 seconds vs. 1200 ± 00 seconds) latencies, and post-ejaculatory interval (381.72 ± 37.55 seconds vs. 1200 ± 00 seconds) were observed in all groups receiving cyproterone acetate on day 0. Total inhibitions of mounts (63.50 ± 8.91 vs. 00 ± 00), intromissions (36.66 ± 3.51 vs. 00 ± 00) (p = 0.0000), ejaculations (2.83 ± 00 vs. 00 ± 00, p = 0.0002) frequencies and mean copulatory interval (627.30 ± 81.80 vs. 00 ± 00, p = 0.0000) were also observed in these groups. Moreover, decreases in daily sperm production (2.65 ± 0.19 vs. 1.17 ± 0.08, p = 0.0498), percentage of sperm mobility (78.64 ± 8.41 vs. 10.12 ± 2.32), serum testosterone level (8.39 ± 0.63 ng/dl vs. 1.68 ± 0.19 ng/dl), diameter of seminiferous tubules (111.97 ± 0.51 µm vs. 94.51 ± 0.57 µm) and height of germinal epithelium (46.58 ± 0.34 µm vs. 33.74 ± 0.66 µm) (p = 0.0000) associated with increases in sperm transit (3.13 ± 0.45 vs. 11.07 ± 1.45, p = 0.0000) were also observed in these groups. Interestingly, compared to hypogonadal control and day 0, the administration of V. afzelii extract induced significant (p = 0.0000) improvements in all these altered parameters with 400 mg/kg being the most active dose. These results, attributed to saponins, flavonoids, polyphenols and triterpenes detected in this plant's extract confirm its traditional usage and could be useful for the management of patients suffering from hypogonadism.

Factors Associated with COVID-19 Vaccine Refusal: A Community-Based Study in the Menoua Division in Cameroon.

COVID-19, which was named in March 2020 as a global pandemic by the WHO, remains a serious public health threat worldwide. Despite the adoption of vaccines as an effective strategy to counter this pandemic, the vaccination rate in Cameroon is far lower than that planned by the Cameroonian government and its partners. The main objective of this study was to determine the factors limiting COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in the Menoua Division in the West Region of Cameroon. A community-based cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted between March and April 2022 in the Menoua Division. A pre-tested questionnaire was filled out by willing participants of more than 18 years old, and data were further expressed in order to estimate the knowledge of participants on COVID-19, vaccine status, and the factors associated with vaccine refusal. A Pearson test was performed in order to identify the associated factors, with a p-value < 0.05 considered as significant. A total of 520 participants with a mean age of 33.27 ± 12.78 were included. Most had a secondary education level (56.15%), and trade and informal sectors (34.04%) were the main occupations. Knowledge on COVID-19 was average, and it was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with gender and education level. The vaccination rate was 10%, which was six times less than the national target. A lack of information, confidence, and medicinal plant use were all factors significantly associated with vaccine refusal. This pioneer community-based study in Cameroon identified a lack of knowledge, confidence, and medicinal plant use as the leading factors limiting COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Cameroon. Health authorities should therefore strengthen sensitization in order to tackle the lack of information and the misinformation among the target groups.

Amaranthus hybridus (Amaranthaceae) prevents the detrimental effects of cyclophosphamide on ovarian function in Wistar rats: An experimental study.

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CP) is an anticancer agent, but its chronic administration induces ovarian toxicity. Objective: We evaluated the effects of aqueous extract (AE) and methanol extract (ME) of Amaranthus hybridus (A. hybridus) on CP-induced ovarian toxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: 40 female Wistar rats (10 wk, 170-200 gr) were distributed into 8 groups (n = 5/each) as follows: 1) healthy control; 2) CP+distilled water (10 ml/kg/d); 3) CP+3%-tween 80 (10 mL/kg/d); 4) CP+clomiphene citrate (2 mg/kg/d); 5, 6) CP+AE of A. hybridus (55 and 110 mg/kg/d); and 7, 8) CP+ME of A. hybridus (55 and 110 mg/kg/d). After 28 days of treatment, estrus cyclicity, ovarian and uterine weights as well as estradiol levels and ovarian histology were determined. Results: CP induced ovarian toxicity after 28 days of exposure. More specifically, CP disturbed the estrus cycle, decreased ovary and uterus weights (p = 0.04), and the 17-ß estradiol level (p = 0.04), and induced severe ovarian damages. Remarkably, A. hybridus significantly increased (p = 0.03) the ovarian weight (AE and ME at all doses) and uterus weight (ME at 110 mg/kg/d), compared with the CP-treated rats. Moreover, the 17-ß estradiol level was significantly elevated (p = 0.02) in rats given clomiphene citrate and A. hybridus (AE 110 mg/kg/d; ME 55 mg/kg/d). Finally, the ovaries of rats given plant extracts had many corpus luteum and normal follicles, and no cystic follicles. Conclusion: prevented the detrimental effects of CP on ovarian function, which could support its traditional use as a fertility enhancer.

The edible plant Amaranthus hybridus (Amaranthaceae) prevents the biochemical, histopathological and fertility impairments in colibri®-treated female rats.

Colibri® a commercial formulation of Imidacloprid severely impairs the reproductive function. This study aimed at evaluating the preventive effects of Amaranthus hybridus on the reproductive toxicity of colibri® in female rats. Eighty rats (n = 10/group) were orally treated with colibri® (22.5 mg/kg) and co-administered with either aqueous or methanolic extracts of A. hybridus (55 or 110 mg/kg) within four weeks. Control animals received either distilled water (10 ml/kg), clomiphene citrate or vitamin E. Starting from day 18 of treatment till the end, half of animals in each group (n = 5) was used for the fertility test whereas the remaining rats were kept under treatment until sacrifice. Blood, ovaries, uterus and vagina were collected after sacrifice for measurement of sexual hormones, oxidative stress markers and histological assessment. Exposure of female rats to colibri® was followed by a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the ovarian and uterine weights, LH, FSH, estradiol and progesterone levels as well as ovarian superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase activities. Moreover, alteration of ovaries, uteri and vagina histology, increase in MDA concentration, decrease in fertility and parturition indices and, pup's viability were recorded. Co-administration of colibri® and plant extracts significantly (p < 0.05-0.001) prevented the above-mentioned damages through biochemical parameter regulations. These results suggest that A. hybridus exerts a preventive effect against colibri®-induced female reproductive toxicity.

Use of WhatsApp®, for distance teaching during COVID-19 pandemic: Experience and perception from a sub-Saharan African setting.

BACKGROUND: In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, to palliate to the lockdown and cover academic programs, the faculty of medicine and pharmaceutical sciences (FMPS) of the university of Dschang (UDs) in Cameroon has implemented e-learning using WhatsApp®. AIM: Describe the opinion of students and lecturers after its implementation of e-learning at the FMPS of UDs. METHODS: We designed a uniform teaching scheme using WhatsApp® during the university lockdown. Students and members of the teaching staff of the FMPS of UDs were enrolled after receiving clear information on the study implementation. At the end of the online-teaching period of two and a half months, we surveyed our students and teaching staff. Sociodemographic characteristics and opinions about e-learning were collected using a standard questionnaire. RESULTS: We enrolled 229 students and 40 lecturers of the FMPS. Students reported a decremented quality of internet connection (p < 0.001, p-homogeneity < 0.001) despite an increased expenditure related to internet use. Electronic devices were broadly used before the implementation of mobile learning. The use of course materials was significantly more challenging among students because of the size/format of lecture notes and internet connection/cost (all p < 0.05). Perception of discipline compared to classroom-based lessons was not significantly different among students compared to lecturers (all p > 0.05). While lecturers were mainly more comfortable conveying the contents of their lectures, students tended to be less prone to actively participate. The motivation and satisfaction of the latter group toward e-learning were modest compared to classroom-based lectures while their feedback about the organization was positive. CONCLUSIONS: E-learning using WhatsApp® could be an effective alternative to conventional classroom-based lessons in the context of COVID-19 pandemic. The use of a blended-learning program including classroom-based sessions could help improve its limitations.

Dracaena arborea (Dracaenaceae) Increases Sexual Hormones and Sperm Parameters, Lowers Oxidative Stress, and Ameliorates Testicular Architecture in Rats with 3 Weeks of Experimental Varicocele.

Varicocele is a disease characterized by an abnormal dilation of the pampiniform plexus that drains the testis. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the curative effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Dracaena arborea on some reproductive and antioxidant markers in rats with experimental varicocele. Following varicocele induction, rats (5 per group) were randomly partitioned into untreated varicocele, vitamin E-treated (150 mg/kg), aqueous extract-treated (500 mg/kg), and ethanolic extract-treated (100 mg/kg) animals. Two other groups served as normal and sham-operated. After 2 or 4 weeks of treatments, body and sex organ weights, spermatozoa characteristics, antioxidant status, NO level, sex hormones, and testis histology were measured. Animals with 3 weeks of varicocele showed a significant (p < 0.05-0.001) decrease in body and sex organ weights, total proteins, sperm characteristics, testosterone concentration, SOD, catalase, and total peroxidase activities. An increase in the plasmatic FSH, LH, and testicular MDA and NO concentrations was also recorded. Moreover, marked disorganization of the testicular architecture was observed. Treatment with D. arborea significantly reversed these impairments due to varicocele. For instance, after 4 weeks, treatment with aqueous extract of D. arborea significantly (p < 0.05-0.001) increased testes and epididymis weights, sperm viability (89.12 ± 1.09 vs 68.22 ± 1.42), sperm density (148.50 ± 2.59 vs 110.25 ± 2.51), and sperm motility (68.16 ± 2.39 vs 55.88 ± 3.20) in the left side, compared with varicocele-untreated rats. The extract also significantly (p < 0.05-0.001) decreased malondialdehyde level (2.19 ± 0.04 vs 3.50 ± 0.13) but elevated catalase (0.97 ± 0.03 vs 0.55 ± 0.03), SOD (0.5 ± 0.03 vs 0.15 ± 0.03), and peroxidase (65.80 ± 2.9 vs 40.95 ± 2.44) activities. Present results showed that D. arborea extracts possess antioxidant effects and improve sperm quality in male rats with an existing varicocele.

Dracaena arborea improves sperm characteristics and antioxidant enzymes in adult male rats with experimental varicocele.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the preventive effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Dracaena arborea on sperm characteristics and oxidative stress markers in adult male rats with varicocele. METHODS: Thirty-six male Wistar rats were randomly distributed into 6 groups (6 animals/group) and treated for 30 days as follows: (1), normal rats receiving distilled water (10 ml/kg); (2), sham operated rats receiving distilled water (10 ml/kg); (3), varicocele rats receiving distilled water (10 ml/kg); (4), varicocele rats receiving vitamin E (150 mg/kg); (5-6), varicocele rats administered respectively with aqueous (500 mg/kg) and ethanolic (100 mg/kg) extracts of D. arborea. All rats (except normal and sham-operated groups) underwent varicocele induction. At the end of the treatment period, sexual organ weights, oxidative stress, sperm characteristics and some biochemical parameters were measured. RESULTS: A significant decrease (p<0.01) in sperm density (137.81±7.76 vs. 175.83±4.86), sperm motility (55.43±4.49 vs. 77.96± 3.15) and sperm normality (44.75±2.80 vs. 79.25±1.84) was noticed in varicocele-untreated rats compared with controls. Varicocele also induced oxidative stress by decreasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities, and increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. These alterations were prevented by D. arborea. For instance, the aqueous extract of D. arborea (500 mg/kg) significantly increased (p<0.05-0.001) testes and epididymis weights, sperm viability and sperm motility, while the ethanolic extract (100 mg/kg) increased sperm normality compared with varicocele-untreated rats. D. arborea extracts also decreased MDA levels, but elevated catalase activity. CONCLUSIONS: Dracaena arborea prevents the deleterious effects of varicocele and could be considered as an alternative treatment of this physiopathology.

Uterotonic Effects of Aqueous and Methanolic Extracts of Lannea acida in Wistar Rats: An In Vitro Study.

Lannea acida (Anacardiaceae), commonly called Kikié in the Noun division (West-Cameroon), is a tree whose bark is used locally to facilitate delivery. This study was aimed at evaluating the in vitro uterotonic effects of aqueous and methanol extracts of L. acida in Wistar rats. Uterine strips isolated from rats pretreated with 5 µg estradiol (48 h) were mounted in a single-organ bath containing aerated and thermostated De Jalon solution (37 °C). After equilibration, non-cumulative effects of L. acida extracts were recorded after application. The effect of the methanol extract (the most active extract) was monitored in the presence of atosiban (a competitive antagonist of oxytocin receptors), atropine (a specific type 3 muscarinic receptor antagonist), nifedipine (an L-type calcium channel antagonist), and 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-ADB, a specific antagonist of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptors type 1), and in calcium-free medium containing EGTA to elucidate its mechanism of action. L. acida induced uterine contraction in a concentration-dependent manner with the methanol extract (1.506 ± 0.032 gf) being the most effective. Administration of atosiban (2 µmol/L) and atropine (1 µmol/L) reduced the contractile effect of L. acida. Complete inhibition was observed with nifedipine, 2-APB, and calcium-free medium containing EGTA. These results suggest that L. acida possesses uterotonic effects mediated through oxytocin receptors with mobilization of extracellular calcium.

Cytoarchitectural improvement in Leydig cells of diabetic rats after treatment with aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dracaena arborea (Dracaenaceae).

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Recent studies have demonstrated the androgenic effects of Dracaena arborea in castrated and diabetic rats, but the cytoarchitectural mechanism at the level of Leydig cells (LCs) justifying this improvement in androgens production in diabetic rats has never been examined. We investigated the effects of aqueous and ethanol extracts of D. arborea on diabetes-induced cytoarchitectural impairments of LCs in rats. EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE: Besides a normal group, 4 groups of diabetic rats were treated orally with Millipore water (10 ml/kg, diabetic), sildenafil citrate (1.44 mg/kg), aqueous (500 mg/kg) and ethanol (100 mg/kg) extracts of D. arborea for 21 days. On day 22, rats were sacrificed and the testes were removed and prepared for electron microscopic analyses of LCs ultrastructure. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The ultrastructure of LCs in control rats was normal, while that in diabetic rats exhibited large heterochromatization in the nuclei, reduced amount of smooth endoplasmic reticulum with no lipid droplets in the cytoplasm, many autophagosomes and degenerated mitochondria containing lots of electron dense granules in the matrix. Interestingly, treatment with D. arborea especially its aqueous extract (500 mg/kg) alleviated these impairments, characterized by a rarification of heterochromatization in the nuclei coupled to an increase and the presence in the cytoplasm of prominent smooth endoplasmic reticulum and a reduction of electron dense granules in the matrix of mitochondria. These alleviating properties of D. arborea on LCs ultrastructure of diabetic rats could explain its androgenic potential. These results are useful for the management of patients suffering from diabetes-induced hypogonadism.

Anti-androgenic, anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of the aqueous and methanol extracts of Pterorhachis zenkeri (Meliaceae): Evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Pterorhachis zenkeri (Meliaceae) on sex organ growth in immature male rats and, oxidative stress and apoptosis markers in CCL-97 (R2C) Leydig cells. For the in vivo studies, 70 immature male Wistar rats (n = 10/group) were treated for 2 or 4 weeks with: distilled water (10 ml/kg, per os) plus soya oil (1 ml/kg, sc), bicalutamide (10 mg/kg, per os), aqueous or methanol extract of P. zenkeri (10 mg/kg or 62 mg/kg, per os) or testosterone propionate (3 mg/kg, sc). After each treatment period, body and sexual organ weights, plasmatic testosterone, total proteins and total cholesterol levels were measured. In the in vitro test, the effects of the methanol extract of P. zenkeri on cell viability, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, intracellular calcium release and caspases 3/9 were assessed using CCL-97 Leydig cells. Pterorhachis zenkeri extracts decreased sex organ weights, plasmatic testosterone and protein levels in rats. In the in vitro studies, P. zenkeri inhibited apoptosis, ROS production, calcium release and caspase 3/9 activities. These results suggest that P. zenkeri has anti-androgenic, anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic activities with methanol extract being the most active and could be an effective alternative for the management of androgen-related diseases.

The Ethanol Extract of Avocado (Persea americana Mill. (Lauraceae)) Seeds Successfully Induces Implant Regression and Restores Ovarian Dynamic in a Rat Model of Endometriosis.

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease with conventional therapies which do not have desirable effectiveness and possess many side effects. Scientific evidences suggest that medicinal plants with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and/or antiproliferative properties are potential alternatives for the treatment of endometriosis. The ethanol extract of Persea americana Mill. (Lauraceae) seeds was found exhibiting antiproliferative properties in vitro and in vivo. This study therefore is aimed at investigating the effects of such an extract on an experimental model of endometriosis. Endometriosis was induced by grafting uterine fragments onto the peritoneum of female Wistar rats. After checking the success of the transplantation surgery, animals with endometriosis were orally treated with the ethanol extract of P. americana seeds at the doses of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg. The positive control was treated with letrozole (10 mg/kg) while the negative control received the vehicle. Treatments lasted 7 days and animals were sacrificed thereafter. Endometrial implant volume was determined. Estradiol and progesterone levels were measured in serum samples and endometriosis lesions. The oxidative status of endometriosis lesions was evaluated. Histological analysis of endometriosis lesions, uterus, and ovaries was also performed. Results showed that the ethanol extract of P. americana seeds decreased endometrial implant volume (p < 0.001) and serum levels of estradiol and progesterone (p < 0.01). The levels of estradiol also decreased in endometriosis lesions at doses of 12.5 and 50 mg/kg (p < 0.001). Both malondialdehyde and glutathione levels increased in endometriosis lesions (p < 0.001). The ectopic endometrium height decreased and the number of antral follicles and corpora lutea (p < 0.05) increased while that of luteinized unruptured follicles decreased (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the ethanol extract of P. americana seeds displayed an antiendometriosis effect suggesting that it could be a potential alternative for the treatment of endometriosis.

Rubus apetalus (Rosaceae) improves spermatozoa characteristics, antioxidant enzymes and fertility potential in unilateral cryptorchid rats.

BACKGROUND: Cryptorchidism (CPT) is an important cause of male infertility. Rubus apetalus is a medicinal plant with a powerful antioxidant potential. We investigated the effects of aqueous and methanolic extracts of R. apetalus on spermatozoa parameters, antioxidant enzymes and fertility potential of rats with experimental unilateral CPT. METHOD: Normal (n = 15), sham-operated (n = 15) and cryptorchid rats (n = 80; distributed into 16 groups of 5 rats/group) were treated for 2, 4 or 8 weeks with either distilled water (10 ml/kg/day), vitamin E (75 mg/kg/day), aqueous or methanolic extract of R. apetalus (12 and 60 mg/kg). Sex organ weights, spermatozoa parameters, testicular proteins, sex hormones, fertility potential, morphometric characteristics of testis and oxidative stress markers were measured. RESULTS: CPT significantly (p < 0.05-0.001) decreased testicular and epididymal weights, spermatozoa density, spermatozoa motility, spermatozoa normality, testicular proteins, LH, FSH and testosterone concentrations. In cryptorchid rats, peri-vascular fibrosis significantly increased (p < 0.001), while diameter of the seminiferous tube, germ cell thickness, gestation index and fertility index decreased when compared to control. Additionally, CPT induced oxidative stress by increasing lipid peroxidation and by reducing superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. These alterations were corrected by R. apetalus. For instance, a significantly increase (p < 0.05-0.001) in spermatozoa motility, normality, viability and density after 2, 4 and 8 weeks of treatment was noticed. R. apetalus also increased (p < 0.05-0.001) testicular proteins, gestation index (90-100%) and fertility index (90-100%), compared to the untreated cryptorchid rats. CONCLUSION: R. apetalus boosts fertility potential in cryptorchid rats and could be considered as a promising alternative agent for the management of infertility associated with CPT.

CONTEXTE ET JUSTIFICATIF: La cryptorchidie (CPT) est. une importante cause de l'infertilité masculine dans le monde. Rubus apetalus est. une plante médicinale au potentiel antioxydant avéré. L'objectif de ce travail était d'évaluer les effets des extraits aqueux et méthanolique de R. apetalus sur les paramètres spermatiques, les enzymes antioxydantes et le potentiel de fertilité des rats à CPT unilatérale. MÉTHODE: Les rats normaux (n = 15), simulés (n = 15) et cryptorchides (n = 80; répartis en 16 groupes de 5 rats/groupe) ont été traités pendant 2, 4 ou 8 semaines avec de l'eau distillée (10 ml/kg/jour), la vitamine E (75 mg/kg/jour) ou l'extrait aqueux ou méthanolique de R. apetalus (12 et 60 mg/kg). La masse des organes sexuels, les caractéristiques spermatiques, les marqueurs du stress oxydatif, les hormones sexuelles, l'histomorphométrie testiculaire et la fertilité ont été mesurés au terme des traitements. RÉSULTATS: La CPT a significativement diminué (p < 0,05-0,001) la masse testiculaire et épididymaire du côté cryptorchide. Le même constat était fait par rapport à la densité, à la motilité, à la normalité spermatique ainsi que les protéines testiculaires et les hormones sexuelles (LH, FSH et testostérone plasmatiques). Chez les rats cryptorchides, la fibrose péri-vasculaire a augmenté de manière significative (p < 0,001) tandis que le diamètre des tubes séminifères, l'épaisseur des cellules germinales, l'indice de gestation et l'indice de fertilité ont diminué par rapport au témoin. De plus, le CPT a induit un stress oxydatif caractérisé par la peroxydation lipidique et la réduction de l'activité des enzymes antioxydantes (SOD et catalase). Ces altérations ont été corrigées par R. apetalus. Une augmentation significative (p < 0,05-0,001) des paramètres spermatiques, des protéines testiculaires et des hormones sexuelles a été notée après 2, 4 et 8 semaines de traitement aux extraits de plante. R. apetalus a par ailleurs normalisé l'activité des enzymes antioxydantes et augmenté l'indice de gestation (90­100%) et l'indice de fertilité (90­100%) par rapport aux rats cryptorchides non traités. CONCLUSION: R. apetalus augmente le potentiel de fertilité chez les rats cryptorchides et pourrait être une alternative prometteuse pour la prise en charge de l'infertilité masculine due à la cryptorchidie.

Semen quality among men attending urology services in the Dschang Health District, west Cameroon: A retrospective study on 379 cases.

BACKGROUND: Infertility is a common condition affecting at least 15% of couples worldwide, and male factors are involved in about half of this prevalence rate. In Cameroon, about 20%-40% of couples are the victims. However, the sperm characteristics of infertile men are yet to be described in the health districts in Cameroon for better management of male infertility. OBJECTIVE: The present study was designed to assess the sperm profile and related sociodemographic factors of men attending the urology services at the Dschang Health District. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It consisted of a 10 yr retrospective study carried out in the Dschang Health District. The results of patients' semen analysis (SA) were computed using Epi Info software and expressed as qualitative and quantitative spermogram state as described by the clinician and sociodemographic features of those patients. RESULTS: Out of the 379 patients studied, 83.91% had abnormal spermogram. Patients older than 50 yr were the most affected when grouped into age categories. With regard to patient's profession, 52.51% had specified their profession and from that group, although farmers (9.31%) represented the lowest size category, they were the most affected with 94.74% having abnormal spermogram. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that the sperm damage is the major cause of male infertility in the Dschang Health District. It also shows that farmers are the most affected category and it could be linked to the long-term exposure to pesticides. These results call for the assessment of the reproductive toxicity of locally used pesticides.

Prevalence and factors associated with dysmenorrhea in women at child bearing age in the Dschang Health District, West-Cameroon.

INTRODUCTION: dysmenorrhea is a painful phenomenon at the pelvis region preceding or following menstruation. Dysmenorrhea accounts among the most frequent problem of women at child bearing age and affects 45% to 95% of them. According to the WHO, 16.8 to 81% of women are affected by dysmenorrhea. The present study was carried out at the Dschang Health District in order to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and associated factors among women at child bearing age. METHODS: a transversal community-based study was carried out from March to June 2018. Information regarding socio-demographic features, prevalence, factors associated with the dysmenorrhea and the effect of dysmenorrhea on daily activities were collected using structured questionnaire and data were analyzed using Epi Info version 7.1.3.3 Software. RESULTS: a total of 637 women aged 12 to 50 years were interviewed in the present study. The mean body mass index was 25.94 with an average weight of 66.41 kilogram. Fifty six point twenty percent (56.20%) of participants had dysmenorrhea. From all risks factors fund only the normal body mass index (OR = 3.08, P-value = 0.01) having a significant association with the occurrence of dysmenorrhea. Daily activities were affected in 73.25% of participants dysmenorrheic and those who had some episodes of dysmenorrhea. CONCLUSION: the present study showed that more than a half of respondents were dysmenorrheic and several factors were associated with this pathology. This study also suggests that dysmenorrhea have a negative impact on the daily activities of women at child bearing age.

Aphrodisiac property of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Raphia vinifera (Arecaceae) in sexually experienced male rats.

BACKGROUND: Raphia vinifera (Arecaceae) is a medicinal plant commonly used as a sexual enhancer. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the aphrodisiac potential of aqueous extract (AE) and methanolic extract (ME) of R. vinifera in sexually experienced male rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly distributed into six groups (5 rats per group) and administered for 14 days with distilled water (10 ml/kg), sildenafil citrate (1.44 mg/kg), and AE or ME of R. vinifera (100 or 500 mg/kg). The copulatory activity was tested on days 0, 7, and 14 using receptive females. Further, on day 14, rats were sacrificed and biochemical analyses (testosterone, total protein, and acid phosphatase) were performed. RESULTS: Sildenafil citrate significantly decreased the intromission latency (day 14, p = 0.04) and frequency (days 7 and 14, p = 0.03) but increased the mount frequency (day 14, p = 0.04), compared with control. Remarkably, R. vinifera enhanced the sexual activity by significantly decreasing the intromission latency (AE and ME, 500 mg/kg, day 14, p = 0.04) and increasing the mount frequency (AE and ME, 100 mg/kg, day 7, p = 0.02) compared with control. Moreover, R. vinifera improved plasmatic (AE, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.03; AE, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.001; ME, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.01) and testicular (AE, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.001; AE, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.01; ME, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.001; ME, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.01) testosterone levels as well as plasmatic total proteins concentration (ME, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: These findings showed that R. vinifera possesses an aphrodisiac property which could further justify its folkloric use in traditional medicine as a sexual enhancer.

Aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dracaena arborea (Wild) Link (Dracaenaceae) alleviate reproductive complications of diabetes mellitus in rats.

Reproductive dysfunction is one of the most prevalent diabetes complications. Draceana arborea is known to enhance sexual function in diabetic rats, but the underlying mechanisms have not been thoroughly elucidated. This study examined the effects of D. arborea on some reproductive complications of diabetes in rats. Aqueous and ethanol (500 and 100 mg/kg respectively) extracts of D. arborea, Sildenafil citrate (1.44 mg/kg), trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO, 20 mg/kg) and distilled water (10 ml/kg) were orally administered for 28 days to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Glycaemia, body and reproductive organ masses, fertility parameters, total proteins, antioxidant enzymes activities, serum and testicular testosterone and the histology of the testes and epididymis were determined. Results revealed significant decreases in body and absolute and relative masses of testes, epididymis, seminal vesicles, prostate and vas deferens, fertility parameters, epididymal and testicular total proteins, serum and testicular testosterone levels as well as antioxidant enzymes activities. Interestingly, while having minor anti-hyperglycaemic effects, these abnormalities associated with testicular and epididymal alterations were alleviated by D. arborea especially the aqueous extract (500 mg/kg). These outcomes provided evidence of the androgenic properties of D. arborea in diabetic rats, which could be useful for a better management of sexual dysfunctions in diabetic patients.

Cyclophosphamide-induced reproductive toxicity: Beneficial effects of Helichrysum odoratissimum (Asteraceae) in male Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVE: Cyclophosphamide (CP) is commonly used to treat some cancers, but its clinical efficacy is also linked with testicular toxicity. We investigated the effects of aqueous extract (AE) and methanolic extract (ME) of Helichrysum odoratissimum for reducing CP-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. METHODS: In addition to a normal control (group 1), drugs or vehicles were administered orally to seven groups (n = 5) of rats that had already received 4-weeks of pre-treatment with CP (5 mg/[kg·d], per oral administration); group 2 received CP + distilled water (10 mL/[kg·d]); group 3 received CP + 5% tween 80 (10 mL/[kg·d]); group 4 received CP + clomiphene citrate (0.25 mg/[kg·d]); groups 5 and 6 received CP + AE (50 and 100 mg/[kg·d]) and groups 7 and 8 received CP + ME (50 and 100 mg/[kg·d]). Animals were sacrificed on day 15, and body and sexual organ weights, sperm characteristics, testosterone level and testicular histology were evaluated. RESULTS: The CP-treated group showed a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in the body and seminal vesicle weights, testosterone level, sperm count, sperm motility and sperm viability, but elevated (P < 0.001) sperm morphological abnormalities and testicular structure alterations, compared to the control group. Interestingly, these detrimental effects of CP were reversed by treatment with H. odoratissimum extracts. For instance, both extracts and all doses of H. odoratissimum significantly increased the sperm count (P < 0.001), sperm motility (AE, 50 mg/kg, P < 0.05; ME, 50 and 100 mg/kg, P < 0.05) and sperm viability (AE, 50 mg/kg, P < 0.001; ME, 50 and 100 mg/kg, P < 0.001) compared to the CP group. H. odoratissimum also improved plasmatic and intratesticular testosterone levels and prevented histological alterations of the testes. CONCLUSION: H. odoratissimum might be considered as an alternative drug to alleviate/prevent reproductive damage in cancer patients receiving CP chemotherapy.

Sexual stimulant effects of the mixture of Mondia whitei, Dracaena arborea, and Bridelia ferruginea in normal and prediabetic male Wistar rats.

Background We investigated the effects of a polyherbal formulation prepared from the extracts of Mondia whitei (Periplocaceae), Dracaena arborea (Dracaenaceae), and Bridelia ferruginea (Euphorbiaceae) (MDB) on the sexual behavior of normal rats (NR) and prediabetic rats (PR). Methods Male Wistar rats were administered with drinking fructose solution (21%) or tap water for 16 weeks. After induction of prediabetic status, NR (n = 30) and PR (n = 30) were randomly distributed into 10 groups of six animals each and orally treated with distilled water (10 mL/kg), sildenafil citrate (5 mg/kg), or MDB (50, 100, or 500 mg/kg) for 21 days. Sexual behavior parameters per series (S) of ejaculation were evaluated on days 1, 7, 14, and 21. Results Drinking fructose solution (21%) induced prediabetic status in rats, characterized by a significant (p < 0.01) increase in glycemia by 43.41% compared with the control group. MDB improved sexual performances of NR and PR by increasing the mount frequency (MF) and the intromission frequency (IF) as well as the number of rats capable of ejaculating. For instance, the MF and the IF were significantly increased in animals administered with MDB for 7 (50 mg/kg, S1 and S2), 14 (100 mg/kg, S3), or 21 days (100 or 500 mg/kg, S2). This increase was more pronounced on days 7 and 14 in NR and PR treated with sildenafil citrate or MDB extracts, respectively. Conclusions The mixture of MDB improved sexual activity in NR and PR. This result may further justify the traditional use of these plants as sexual performance enhancers.

Phyllanthus muellerianus (Euphorbiaceae) Restores Ovarian Functions in Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Rats.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the common causes or female infertility. Phyllanthus muellerianus (Euphorbiaceae) is a plant used to treat various ailments including frequent menstruation and anovulation. We investigated the effects of P. muellerianus extracts on estrus cyclicity, lipid profile, oxidative stress-related markers, sex hormones, and ovarian architecture in letrozole-induced PCOS in rats. After induction of PCOS using letrozole (1 mg/kg/day), normal (n=6), and PCOS (n=108; distributed into 18 groups of 6 animals/group) rats were treated orally for 7 or 14 days with distilled water (10 ml/kg/day), clomiphene citrate (2 mg/kg/day), metformin (500 mg/kg/day), and aqueous or methanolic extract of P. muellerianus (30, 60, and 120 mg/kg). Estrus cyclicity, body, and sexual organ (ovaries and uterus) weights, biochemical and histological parameters were measured. There were letrozole-induced PCOS characterized by irregular estrus cyclicity, elevated (p<0.05-0.01) glycaemia, ovarian weight, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol, malondialdehyde, luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone concentrations, but there were low (p<0.05-0.001) HDL cholesterol, estradiol, progesterone, catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase levels, compared with control. PCOS rats had multiple cysts compared with control. These reproductive, biochemical, and structural alterations were alleviated by P. muellerianus extracts. For instance, P. muellerianus restored the estrus cyclicity with a remarkable effect after 14 days of treatment. Moreover, P. muellerianus significantly decreased (p<0.001) LH and testosterone (both extracts; 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg) levels, but increased (p<0.01) estradiol (aqueous extract; 60 mg/kg) concentration. Cystic follicles were also decreased after plant application. P. muellerianus alleviated reproductive, hormonal, and structural alterations in PCOS rats. This plant could be useful in the management/treatment of reproductive and metabolic disorders related to PCOS.