Protective Effect of Rosmarinic Acid Against Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Damage in Mice via Modulation of Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Apoptosis and Restoration of Nrf2/HO-1

Cisplatin (CIS) is a promising chemotherapeutic drug widely utilized for the treatment of several malignancies though its role in inducing testicular injury is established. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a polyphenolic whose health benefits are quite well known. This research explored the ability of RA to protect against CIS-induced testicular damage and the different mechanisms involved in this protective role. For this purpose, different groups of mice were given oral doses of RA (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) for two weeks and a single dose of CIS (7mg/Kg) intraperitoneally on the 8th day. CIS administration was found to cause a considerable reduction in sperm parameters like sperm count, viability and motility. It also mediated considerable histopathological changes in parallel to augmented MDA content and reduced GSH content and CAT and SOD activities in testis. Administration of RA in tissues with CIS-induced damage caused attenuation of sperm parameter alterations, indicating protection from testicular damage. RA administration was also found to alleviate NO and MDA levels and antioxidants in mice treated with CIS. An increment in NF-κB 65, TNF-α, IL-1β, Bax and caspase-3 was caused by CIS administration which also reduced Bcl-2 levels in testis. However, RA administration caused suppression of upregulation of NF-κB and concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines together with alleviation of apoptosis in testis. This resulted in the improvement of all sperm parameters. The protective efficacy of RA against CIS-induced testicular damage is quite clear from these results; however, further research in this connection is still required to strengthen the basis for the development of an RA-based therapeutic tool against CIS-induced testicular damage

Discovering the Therapeutic Potential of Piper Essential Oils: Chemistry and Bioactivities

The genus Piper, a prominent member of the Piperaceae family, encompasses over 2,000 species and is widely distributed, particularly in Southeast Asia. Known for its medicinal and economic significance, several Piper species have been traditionally utilized in their native regions for various purposes. These species thrive in tropical areas, primarily as aromatic shrubs and trees that produce essential oils in significant quantities. Widely valued for their therapeutic properties, these oils are extensively used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Recent studies on Malaysian Piper species have highlighted notable pharmacological activities associated with their essential oils. This review provides an in-depth overview of the medicinal applications, chemical composition, and bioactivities of essential oils from key Piper species. Data were gathered through comprehensive searches of electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, and Google Scholar, along with a library search for peer-reviewed articles. The review focuses on the chemical constituents of Piper essential oils, offering insights into selecting species with optimal chemical profiles for diverse applications

Verbenone-Rich Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Essential Oil: GC-MS Profiling, Potent Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities, and Cytotoxic Potential

This study investigated the chemical composition, antimicrobial activity, and cytotoxic potential of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (syn. Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.) essential oil (EO). Fresh leaves were hydrodistilled using a Clevenger apparatus, and the resulting EO was analyzed by GC-MS. Twenty-five compounds representing 96.06% of the oil were identified, dominated by oxygenated monoterpenes (82.34%): verbenone (27.14%), camphor (16.59%), and 1,8-cineole (12.55%), followed by hydrocarbon monoterpenes (9.89%), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (1.84%), and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.00%). Antimicrobial activity was assessed against clinical and reference bacterial and fungal strains using the disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The EO exhibited potent antibacterial effects, with inhibition zones up to 20.0 ± 1.3 mm and MICs ranging from 0.9–3.75 mg/mL. Notably, activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli surpassed that of cefotaxime, while Staphylococcus epidermidis showed the lowest susceptibility. Antifungal testing revealed substantial inhibition of Cryptococcus neoformans ATCC 90112 (17.3 ± 0.8 mm; MIC 0.9 mg/mL), equivalent to amphotericin B, with moderate activity against Candida albicans strains (MIC 1.9–3.75 mg/mL). Cytotoxicity toward normal Vero cells was evaluated at concentrations of 10–100 μg/mL, revealing a dose-dependent inhibition with an IC₅₀ of 62.80 μg/mL, classifying the EO as highly cytotoxic under OECD and NIH guidelines. Importantly, the IC₅₀ was considerably higher than the MICs observed, and the lowest cytotoxicity test concentration (10 μg/mL) exceeded the antimicrobial effective range, suggesting that antibacterial and antifungal activity may occur at non-cytotoxic levels. These findings highlight verbenone-rich R. officinalis EO from Jordan as a promising source of natural antimicrobial agents with potential pharmaceutical and preservative applications. However, its high cytotoxicity warrants further investigation into safe dosing, formulation strategies, and synergistic combinations to optimize its therapeutic index

Dual Action of Avarol Quinone Terpenoid: Disrupting Cell Wall and Membrane Integrity in Staphylococcus aureus

The rising threat of multidrug-resistant bacteria necessitates the discovery of novel antibacterial agents with distinct mechanisms of action. In this study, we investigated the antibacterial activity and mechanism of action of Avarol Quinone Terpenoid (AQT), a polyfunctional compound isolated from the marine sponge Neopetrosia exigua, against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing revealed that AQT exhibits bacteriostatic activity at 2.6 μg/mL and bactericidal activity at 5.2 μg/mL. To further explore its antibacterial mechanism, a series of in vitro assays were performed to assess its impact on bacterial viability, morphology, membrane integrity, and cellular metabolism. Time-kill analysis demonstrated a concentration-dependent reduction in S. aureus viability. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed severe morphological alterations in AQT-treated cells, including membrane deformation and collapse. Membrane permeability was significantly increased, as indicated by elevated uptake of crystal violet and propidium iodide dyes. These effects were accompanied by marked leakage of nucleic acids, proteins, potassium, calcium, and ATP, supporting membrane disruption. SDS-PAGE analysis showed reduced total protein content, although lipase activity remained unaffected, suggesting AQT does not inhibit protein synthesis. API Staph tests indicated that AQT inhibited sugar utilization (lactose, maltose, and N-acetylglucosamine) and suppressed arginine dihydrolase activity, potentially impairing ATP generation. Autolysis assays showed increased activity of cell wall-degrading enzymes, consistent with cell wall-targeting antibiotics. Furthermore, membrane depolarization assays using DiSC₃(5) confirmed the dissipation of membrane potential. Collectively, these findings suggest that AQT exerts its antibacterial effects through a multifaceted mechanism targeting both the cell wall and the cytoplasmic membrane, leading to loss of membrane integrity, energy depletion, and bacterial cell death. AQT thus holds promise as a potential anti-S. aureus therapeutic agent

Computed Tomography–Based Quantitative Morphometry Reveals Distinct Airway Remodelling in COVID-19 versus Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Purpose: To quantitatively characterize airway structural changes in COVID-19 and compare them to those observed in community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), using computed tomography (CT)-based Morphometry. The study aims to evaluate whether COVID-19 and CAP produce distinct patterns of airway remodelling across multiple geometric metrics. Materials and methods: High-resolution chest CT scans from 80 COVID-19 patients (stratified into low- and high-severity subgroups), 38 CAP patients, and 28 healthy controls were analysed. Airway parameters—hydraulic diameter (Dh (mm)), hydraulic ratio (Xh), airway circularity (Cr), and airway thickness (TA (mm))—were measured across the first 5–6 bronchial generations using 3D reconstruction and geodesic labelling. Statistical comparisons employed Kruskal–Wallis and regression analyses. Results: COVID-19 exhibited proximal airway enlargement but distal narrowing, contrasting with CAP’s uniform reduction in airway efficiency (p < 0.01). Xh gradients revealed compensatory adaptation in COVID-19’s major airways (steeper slope in severe cases, p = 0.013) but significant distal dysfunction (−12% Xh vs. CAP, p < 0.001). Circularity showed focal geometric distortion in COVID-19 versus CAP’s homogeneous expansion (p < 0.001). TA (mm) analysis identified diffuse thinning in COVID-19 (vs. CAP’s mild thickening, p = 0.189), with superimposed focal thromboinflammatory thickenings. Conclusions: COVID-19 and CAP induce fundamentally different patterns of airway remodelling. COVID-19 is associated with proximal airway dilation and disrupted distal tapering, whereas CAP results in uniform narrowing. These morphometric profiles may contribute to differences in airflow limitation and ventilation–perfusion mismatch, which could inform disease-specific monitoring, prognostication, and selection of therapeutic strategies. Future research should explore the relationship between these structural signatures and clinical outcomes, including recovery trajectory and long-term pulmonary function

Serum Levels of Circulating Immune Complexes and Nitric Oxide in Farmers Exposed to Pesticides in Southwestern Nigeria

The widespread use of pesticides in agriculture has raised significant concerns about their long-term health effects, particularly among chronically exposed farmworkers. This study investigated the serum levels of circulating immune complexes (CICs) and nitric oxide (NO) in pesticide-exposed farmers in Southwestern Nigeria, exploring their role as biomarkers of immune activation and oxidative stress. A case-control study design was employed involving 50 farmers with ≥10 years of pesticide exposure and 39 unexposed controls. CIC and NO levels were quantified using polyethylene glycol precipitation and Griess reagent assays, respectively. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Correlations were evaluated using Spearman’s rho. Farmworkers demonstrated significantly higher CIC levels (87.21 ± 60.34 Eq/ml) compared to controls (60.16 ± 40.74 Eq/ml; p < 0.05). NO levels were also markedly elevated in exposed farmers (88.74 ± 35.92 µM) relative to controls (53.41 ± 22.79 µM; p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was found between NO levels and duration of pesticide exposure (r = 0.489, p < 0.001), while a negative correlation existed between CIC levels and exposure duration (r = –0.367, p < 0.05). Chronic pesticide exposure is associated with heightened immune complex accumulation and oxidative stress, predisposing farmworkers to immune dysregulation and potential long-term health risks. Regular biomonitoring using CIC and NO may offer early insight into pesticide-induced immunotoxicity

Body Mass Index Trends in Children and Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy in Nigeria: A Prospective Evaluation of Regimen-Specific Effects

Children and adolescents living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (CALHIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) are susceptible to metabolic changes as they develop into adulthood, including significant variations in body mass index (BMI). This study evaluates the relationship between ART regimens and BMI trends in a cohort of paediatric population, exploring demographic influences and regimen-specific outcomes. This prospective observational study analyzed BMI trends in 147 children and adolescent living with HIV (CALHIV) (aged 2-16 years) on various ART regimens across three clinic visits. Participants were grouped into six ART regimen categories, including DTG- and LPV/r-based therapies. BMI (calculated from weight and height), CD4 counts, and viral load data were collected and analyzed to assess changes over time in each clinic visit. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 20, with descriptive statistics and BMI changes assessed across visits; significance was set at p < 0.05. The mean participant age was 10.87±3.64 years, with most (95) aged ≥10 years and a male predominance (85 males, 62 females). BMI increased across all groups, with the TLD regimen showing the highest increase (22.99±3.45, 24.94±4.20, 26.79±4.97; p<0.05). BMI increases were progressive across the 3 visits in the TLD group with a consistent >85th percentile CDC BMI category. Adolescents (mean age: 13 years) had higher BMI, while gender had no significant impact (p=0.48). Despite BMI increases, CD4+ counts remained stable, and viral load was notably higher in ALD and ALE groups, though not statistically significant (p>0.05). Dolutegravir-based ART regimens, particularly TLD, are linked to significant BMI increases while maintaining virological while maintaining immunological stability, with variable viral load outcomes. Routine metabolic monitoring and targeted interventions are essential, especially for adolescents. Future studies should explore long-term metabolic outcomes and ART optimization in pediatric populations

Nanomaterials in Medicine: Advancing Drug Delivery, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics

Nanomaterials have revolutionized various fields of medicine, providing innovative solutions for drug delivery, diagnostics, vaccines, and regenerative therapies. The aim of this review is to explore the diverse applications of nanomaterials in medicine, highlighting their potential to enhance treatment efficacy, improve patient outcomes, and address complex medical challenges. Through successful applications like Doxil and Abraxane, nanotechnology has demonstrated its ability to improve targeted drug delivery, while lipid nanoparticles have played a pivotal role in the development of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19. Nanomaterials offer unique advantages, such as their small size, tunable surface properties, and the ability to cross biological barriers, which enable precision therapies and improved diagnostic sensitivity. However, this review also addresses the challenges associated with nanomaterials, including safety concerns, potential toxicity, long-term biodegradability, and the regulatory hurdles that must be overcome for clinical translation. As researchers work to develop biocompatible and biodegradable materials, new opportunities arise in personalized medicine, stimuli-responsive nanomaterials, and theranostics that combine diagnosis and therapy into a single platform. In conclusion, while nanotechnology in medicine offers immense potential for future medical innovations, addressing safety and regulatory challenges will be crucial for the broader adoption of nanomaterials in clinical practice. This review emphasizes the need for continued research and development to realize the full potential of nanomedicine in improving healthcare outcomes globally

Serum Levels of Lead and Selected Acute Phase Proteins in Patients with Substance Use Disorders

Background: Chronic inflammation, immune system dysfunction and elevation in the levels of toxic metals such as lead (Pb) are common observations in patients with substance use disorders (SUD). However, there is little information on the acute phase profile of SUD patients with different serum levels of Pb. Therefore, serum levels of selected acute phase proteins in SUD patients with different serum levels of Pb were determined in this study. Methods: A total of 84 adults consisting of 45 patients with SUDs and 39 controls were enrolled into this case-control study. Serum levels of Pb, albumin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, bromocresol green (BCG) colorimetric method, and ELISA, respectively. Thereafter, CRP-albumin ratio (CAR) was calculated as appropriate. Results: Serum levels of Pb and albumin were significantly higher in patients with SUDs compared with the controls. Considering variation in acute phase proteins based on Pb level, the serum level of albumin was significantly lower, while the serum CRP level and CAR were slightly higher in patients with SUDs whose Pb level was higher than 5 µg/dL compared with patients whose Pb level was ≤5 µg/dL. No significant differences were observed in the levels of Pb, albumin, CRP, CAR in patients with SUDs who abuse single substance compared with those who abuse multiple substances. Conclusion: SUD is associated with increased serum levels of Pb and albumin, and alteration in the serum levels of acute phase proteins appears to be influenced by the serum Pb level. Therefore, there is the need for routine measurement of Pb level in patients with SUDs as they could benefit from therapeutic interventions involving chelation of Pb which could prevent disordered acute phase responses in the patients and facilitate optimal response to antipsychotics

Molecular Detection of Some Risk Factors of Thromboembolism among Nigerian Women on Hormonal Contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives are commonly used by women of reproductive age and may be associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism. Any rise in the relative risk of venous thromboembolism related to specific contraceptive formulations could lead to a notably elevated absolute risk. This study seeks to evaluate the potential role of Factor V Leiden (FVL) and Prothrombin G20210A mutations as risk factors for thromboembolism in users of hormonal contraceptives in Benin City. The study population consisted of 50 non-contraceptive users, 50 non-hormonal contraceptive users, 50 progestin-only contraceptive users, and 50 combined oral contraceptive users recruited from Family Planning Clinics in Benin City. Each participant provided aseptically collected venous blood, with 5.0 mL collected in total. 0.5 mL was placed in a container containing 3.1% tri-sodium citrate anticoagulant for the manual determination of Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). Additionally, 0.5 mL of venous blood was dispensed into a plain container with 0.25 mL DNA-RNA shield solution for the detection of Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin 20210A gene mutations using PCR Duplex Prothrombin 20210 and Factor V. Data analysis was conducted using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 17.0 software. The findings revealed that the overall mutation carriage rate (AA and AG) for the Prothrombin 20210A gene (5%) was more prevalent than FVL (3%) among the subjects. Furthermore, the mean PT and APTT (in seconds) were significantly lower (p<0.001) among women using combined hormonal contraceptives. These findings suggest a potential association between the presence of FVL and FII genes mutations and thromboembolism among Nigerian women using hormonal contraceptives