Microwave oven-induced decalcification at varying temperatures: A comparative study of two decalcifying fluids

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of decalcifying fluid types on bone tissue architecture and its staining properties following decalcification at varying temperatures. A decalcification methodology using Golding and Stewards (GS) fluid, and Jenkings fluid (JK), and a modern household microwave oven to accelerate the decalcification rate of bone tissue samples, was adopted for microscopic investigations at room temperature, 300C, 400C, and 500C respectively. Bone biopsy was obtained from a rabbit’s limb and fixed immediately for 24hrs in 10% formalin. The result showed that micrographs from bone tissue sections decalcified with 5% GS presented excellent histological architecture when compared with those decalcified with 5% JK at 300C while 5% JK presented good  histological architecture when compared with those decalcified with 5% GS at 400C.Severe cytoarchitectural distortion was observed for bone tissues decalcified with 5% GS at 500C, while bone tissues decalcified with 5% JK at 500C,  presented cyto-architectural distortions that were however, not as severe as those of 5% GS at 500C. Our findings suggest therefore, that decalcification with 5% GS at 300C, comparatively gives optimal histological results and preserves the tissues’ best staining properties.Key words: microwave oven, temperatures, bone decalcification, Histology

Morphometric and histopathological evaluation of selected organs of albino rats following subcutaneous administration of Acalypha wilkesiana leaf extract

Acalypha wilkesiana (Copperleaf) belongs to the family (Euphobiaceae), commonly found in the coastal areas of Nigeria. It is used for the treatment of skin infections and other ailments. The study is designed to examine the morphometric and histopathology of selected organs of albino rats following subcutaneous administration of the leaf extract. Twenty-five albino rats of both sexes with average weight of 205.20g were selectively assigned to four treatment groups and a control group (n=5). The rats were housed in plastic cages and allowed adequate access to feed and water ad libitum. The plant was identified and authenticated while the crude leaf extract was prepared and administered at dose range (50 to 200mg/kg) b. w. They were sacrificed at the end of the experiment, grossing was done shortly after excision of selected organs and was fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin. Decrease in body weights of the treated rats was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Morphometric and histopathology findings indicated normal morphology of the skin, muscles, liver and kidneys examined. Therefore, the plant decoction may be used as herbal remedies. However, dose regimen still calls for concern.Key word: Copperleaf, Rattus novergicus, morphometric and histopathology analyse