Peculiar glycemic patterns in alloxaninduced diabetes animal model

Animals are commonly used for experimentation in academic and research institutions (Kimwele et al, 2011). The reliability of a study is partly determined by the animal model used. The researcher must therefore have a fine understanding of animal models when designing animal studies. The current study focuses on animal models used in investigating diabetes mellitus (DM), and its management. These animal models differ significantly and no single one has been reported to accurately represent the essential pattern of type 2 DM in humans, in whom the disease is often preceded by obesity and various molecular changes. Animal models are developed by techniques such as pancreatectomy, chemical induction, genetic engineering, molecular biology and islet cell transplantation (Junod et al, 1969; conducted in animal models, notably dogs and rodents (Lanza et al, 1999).In the majority of studies, chemical-induced diabetes models have been utilized (Frode and Medeiros, 2008). Such chemicals include alloxan (Lenzen, 2008), and streptozotocin (Junod et al, 1969). As at 2010, streptozotocin had reportedly been used in 69% of chemical-induced diabetes animal models, whereas alloxan was the second most commonly used chemical at 31% (Etuk, 2010).Alloxan is a urea derivative which causes selective necrosis of the pancreatic islet β-cells (Etuk, 2010). It is used experimentally to induce type 2 DM in animals such as rabbits, rats, mice and dogs. The experimental dose of the drug needs careful consideration in order to avoid excessive pancreatic tissue damage. The most frequently used intravenous dose of alloxan in rats is 65 mg/kg, but its effective dose must be higher when it is administered intraperitoneally or subcutaneously (Antia et al, 2005). With the rising use of alloxaninduced DM models, different dosages and different methods of inducing diabetes have been reported. Though most methods have demonstrated success, a handful have reported failed induction or variation in blood glucose following alloxan administration (Etuk, 2010). The current study was thus carried out to assess the pattern of blood glucose following intraperitoneal administration of alloxan (125 mg/kg)

Young professionals for health development: the Kenyan experience in combating non-communicable diseases

Young individuals (below 35 years) comprise an estimated 60% of the global population. Not only are these individuals currently experiencing chronic, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), either living with or at risk for these conditions, but will also experience the long-term repercussions of the current NCD policy implementations. It is thus imperative that they meaningfully contribute to the global discourse and responses for NCDs at the local level. Here, we profile one example of meaningful engagement: the Young Professionals Chronic Disease Network (YPCDN). The YPCDN is a global online network that provides a platform for young professionals to deliberate new and innovative methods of approaching the NCD challenges facing our societies. We provide a case study of the 2-year experiences of a country chapter (Kenya) of the YPCDN to demonstrate the significance and impact of emerging leaders in addressing the new global health agenda of the 21st century

Penile incerceration—A tight affair

A patient presents with penile ring incarceration after using it for penile enlargement and prolonging tumescence. We present a case study of removal of the penile ring under local anaesthesia in a setting where cutting tools were inadequate

Dose-dependent myocardial toxicity of Mangifera indica during diarrhoea treatment

Background: The use of alternative medicine is on the rise worldwide. Mangifera indica kernel has been used as a diarrhoea remedy. Studies have demonstrated its mechanism of action to be via the sympathomimetic pathway. Possible adverse effects on the cardiovascular system were however unknown. Objective: The current study aimed to investigate the in-vitro effects of Mangifera indica kernel extract (MIE) on myocardial activity. Methodology: The dose-related effects of MIE were tested on isolated rabbit hearts, and the mechanism of action verified. This was then compared against its efficacy on the jejunum, and the likelihood of myocardial toxicity investigated. Results: MIE significantly enhanced myocardial contractility with no effect on the frequency. However, the doses required for this effect were much higher than those that would be required to treat diarrhoea. Discussion: The use of MIE as a diarrhoea remedy is probably safe on the cardiovascular system provided the dose is maintained within an anti-diarrhoeal therapeutic window. Key words: Diarrhoea, adverse effects, mango kernel, myocardial activity

Glucose-lowering effects of Momordica charantia (Karela) extract in diabetic rats

Background: Momordica charantia (MC) is a plant commonly used for both its nutritional and glucose-lowering effects. It has however not been fully validated in diabetes management due to insufficient empirical evidence. The current study thus investigated its effects on blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. Method: Fourteen six-month old, alloxan-induced diabetic Sprague Dawley rats weighing between 200 – 250 g were assigned to two equal groups (control and experimental). Momordica charantia juice extract was administered (10ml/kg) to the experimental group for 28 consecutive days. An equal dose of normal saline was administered to the controls. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were assessed once weekly for 4 consecutive weeks. Thereafter, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) was performed. Results: The experimental group achieved normal glucose levels within 14 days of MC administration. At day 28, FBG levels were significantly lower in the experimental group compared to the control (3.27±0.20 vs. 7.59±1.26 mmol/l, p=0.01). In IPGTT, FBG levels were significantly lower in the experimental group compared to the control through the 180 minute period of observation. Conclusion: Momordica charantia has a glucose-lowering effect in diabetic rats within 14 days of administration. It also prevents fluctuations in FBG levels, and thus has potential therapeutic use in diabetes management. Key words: Momordica charantia, diabetes mellitus, alloxan, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT)

Young professionals for health development: the Kenyan experience in combating non-communicable diseases

Young individuals (below 35 years) comprise an estimated 60% of the global population. Not only are these individuals currently experiencing chronic, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), either living with or at risk for these conditions, but will also experience the long-term repercussions of the current NCD policy implementations. It is thus imperative that they meaningfully contribute to the global discourse and responses for NCDs at the local level. Here, we profile one example of meaningful engagement: the Young Professionals Chronic Disease Network (YPCDN). The YPCDN is a global online network that provides a platform for young professionals to deliberate new and innovative methods of approaching the NCD challenges facing our societies. We provide a case study of the 2-year experiences of a country chapter (Kenya) of the YPCDN to demonstrate the significance and impact of emerging leaders in addressing the new global health agenda of the 21st century