2025

Salbutamol, montelukast, and prednisolone are commonly prescribed for respiratory disorders. While their therapeutic effects on the airways are well documented, their impact on pulmonary oxidative stress and antioxidant defense mechanisms remains less understood. This study investigated the effects of these drugs and their combinations on oxidative stress biomarkers and total protein concentration in lung tissue. Experimental animals were assigned to eight groups (n = 4): negative control, positive control, salbutamol, montelukast, prednisolone, salbutamol/prednisolone, salbutamol/montelukast, and prednisolone/montelukast. Lung tissue homogenates were analyzed for total protein concentration, antioxidant enzyme activitiesincluding superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)-and oxidative markers, specifically hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitric oxide (NO). Data were expressed as mean ±SEM and analyzed by one-way ANOVA with significance set at p < 0.05. Total protein concentration and catalase activity were not significantly altered in any treatment group compared with the negative control (p > 0.05). Prednisolone treatment significantly increased SOD activity relative to the negative control (p < 0.05), whereas GPx activity was elevated only in the positive control group. Montelukast significantly increased H202 levels compared with the negative control, but H202 levels in the salbutamol, montelukast, and prednisolone groups were significantly lower than the positive control. Nitric oxide concentration decreased in the positive control and prednisolone groups relative to the negative control, while montelukast treatment caused a significant increase in NO compared with the positive control (p < 0.05).

Mobile phones are frequently exposed to various environmental contaminants and serve as potential reservoirs for bacterial pathogens, particularly among individuals in high-contact occupations such as market women. This study aimed to isolate and identify bacterial contaminants from mobile phones used by selected market women in Benin City, Edo State, to assess potential public health risks. Total bacterial counts (TBC) ranged from 1.70 ± 0.02 × 10⁴ cfu/m³ to 3.80 ± 0.53 × 10⁴ cfu/m³, indicating significant microbial contamination. Morphological and biochemical characterization identified Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp., Klebsiella sp., Streptococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp., and Enterococcus sp. Staphylococcus spp. exhibited the highest occurrence (20%), followed by Streptococcus spp. (16%) and Escherichia coli (13%), while Klebsiella sp. had the lowest occurrence (5%). Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed varying resistance patterns among isolates. Escherichia coli exhibited resistance to cefotaxime and nitrofurantoin, while Staphylococcus sp. was resistant to cefotaxime and nitrofurantoin but sensitive to ampicillin, levofloxacin, and imipenem. The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index ranged from 0.3 to 0.5, highlighting the presence of antibiotic-resistant strains with potential public health implications. These findings emphasize the need for improved hygiene practices among market women to minimize bacterial contamination and potential disease transmission.

This study investigates how transparency and explainability influence user trust in AI-driven interfaces. As AI systems become increasingly embedded in decision-making, users often struggle to understand their processes, leading to skepticism and reduced adoption. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 62 participants through structured questionnaires assessing transparency, explainability, trust, and user experience. Statistical analyses revealed that higher transparency and clear, human-centered explanations significantly enhance user trust and perceived fairness. However, overly technical or complex disclosures reduce comprehension and engagement. The study proposes a Human-Centered AI framework that integrates adaptive explainability, layered transparency, and user feedback mechanisms. Findings contribute to the growing field of trustworthy AI by offering practical guidelines for designing transparent, ethical, and user-aligned AI interfaces.

Reinforced concrete (RC) structures form the backbone of modern infrastructure due to their strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. However, over time, these buildings are prone to various forms of deterioration caused by factors such as environmental exposure, poor construction practices, overloading, and lack of proper maintenance. These defects manifest in forms like cracks, spalling, corrosion of reinforcement, and structural deformation, which compromise the integrity and safety of the structure. Hence, this study aim to access the repair and rehabilitation of defective reinforced concrete buildings in Ekosodin Community of Ovia North East LGA, Benin City. The study Involves conducting a comprehensive review of literature, standards, and case studies to understand the mechanisms of deterioration and the corresponding repair techniques. A detailed site investigation was carried out on selected case study buildings to identify the extent of damage through visual inspection and non-destructive testing methods such as rebound hammer tests. Based on the diagnosis (that is watching out for crack defects only), a repair and rehabilitation plan was developed which incorporates suitable repair materials and structural strengthening method such as bitumen crack injection and stitching as a combined method of repair/rehabilitation. Visual inspection revealed multiple types of cracks on columns and walls, with widths ranging from 5 mm to 15 mm, attributed to various factors. Rebound hammer results showed that cracked areas had lower surface strength (11–13 N/mm²) than uncracked regions (24–27 N/mm²), confirming surface deterioration and validating the rebound hammer test as a reliable tool for assessing concrete integrity prior to selecting suitable rehabilitation method

Yam is a crucial staple crop in West Africa, particularly Nigeria, yet its traditional processing into pounded yam (iyan) is highly labor-intensive, time-consuming, and yields inconsistent product quality. While the mechanization of this process through yam blending machines offers a solution for enhanced productivity, a critical operational challenge remains: persistent material leakage during blending. Such leakage compromises operational hygiene, leads to product loss, and risks damage to the machine's mechanical and electrical components, thus hindering wider commercial adoption. This study aimed to address this challenge by designing and constructing a functional yam blending machine with a primary focus on implementing robust sealing mechanisms and hygienic structural features to significantly minimize or eliminate material leakage during operation. The methodology employed a systematic design approach, utilizing a decision matrix to select an AC-powered motor for its high torque capacity and specifying food-grade Stainless Steel (SS304) for all food-contact surfaces. The detailed design prioritized secure interfaces, particularly for the blending shaft and chamber lid, to ensure a hermetic seal. Following construction, the prototype is intended for performance evaluation to assess its blending efficiency, output consistency, and the effectiveness of the integrated leakage prevention measures. The successful development of this machine is anticipated to substantially enhance productivity, uphold higher standards of food safety, and contribute meaningfully to the reliable and sustainable mechanization of the yam processing sector in Nigeria.

With a heart full of gratitude, I first give all glory and thanks to GOD ALMIGHTY for His unfailing love, guidance, and provision, which has carried me through every stage of this project. I am deeply grateful to my supervisor, DR. AUSTIN IROGHAMA ARHOMAREN, whose patience, guidance, and encouragement were instrumental to the success of this work. My heartfelt appreciation also goes to my Head of Department, DR. (MRS.) ZAINAB OMORUYI, for her motherly leadership and constant encouragement. I remain thankful to all my lecturers PROF. OSIME, DR. MRS. OBAZELU, DR. MRS. OTIKOR, MR.UZAMERE, DR. OSAKWE, DR. ERHABOR, and DR. MRS. OTUTU and others for their dedication, teachings, and the wealth of knowledge they have imparted in me. To my beloved parents, MR. AND MRS. FRIDAY OSHODIN, I owe special thanks for their sacrifices, prayers, and unwavering support. I am equally grateful to my siblings JOY, RUTH, EFOSA, BLESSING, AIMUA , for their love, encouragement, and constant belief in me. I also appreciate the prayers, fellowship, and spiritual covering of my place of worship, CHRIST IMPACT ASSEMBLY, which has been a pillar of strength to me all through my journey so far. Finally, my warmest appreciation goes to my dear friends DIVINE, ABEL, FAVOUR, ELIZABETH, JESSICA and my senior colleague, MICHEAL, for their encouragement, support, and friendship all through this journey.

Anaemia is influenced by erythroferrone (ERFE), a regulator of hepcidin during stress erythropoiesis. Aluminium chloride induces anaemia through oxidative stress and impaired iron utilization. Icacina trichantha, a medicinal plant with reported haematopoietic and antioxidant effects, may modulate ERFE expression in anaemic conditions. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of aqueous leaf extract of Icacina trichantha on ERFE gene expression in aluminium chloride-induced anaemia in albino Wistar rats. A total of sixty (60) adult male albino Wistar rats were divided into six (6) groups; A, B, C, D, E and F representing control, aluminium chloride group, ferrous sulphate group, aluminium chloride + 100 mg/kg Icacina trichantha extract, aluminium chloride + 200 mg/kg Icacina trichantha extract and aluminium chloride + 400 mg/kg Icacina trichantha extract respectively. Haematological parameters, blood cell morphology and mRNA ERFE expression were determined using haematology autoanalyzer, manual method and polymerase chain reaction respectively. Data obtained were analyzed by the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software. The comparison of red blood cell parameters showed that red blood cell count (RBC) of groups C (7.65±0.21), D (8.18±0.06), E (7.84±0.31) and F (8.05±0.29) showed no significant difference when compared with groups A (8.09±0.12) and B (7.74±0.21) (p>0.05). Haemoglobin Concentration (g/dL) of groups C (15.06±0.36), D (15.5±0.22), E (15±0.59) and F (15.1±0.61) was not significantly different from groups A (15.33±0.24) and B (14.84±0.32) (p>0.05). Haematocrit (%) of groups C (44.46±0.99), D (45.1±0.73), E (44.32±1.46) and F (43.86±1.52) was not significantly different from groups A (44.88±0.78) and B (44.52±0.96) (p>0.05). Mean cell volume (MCV) of group F (54.64±0.96) was significantly lower than group C (58.22±0.49) (p<0.05), while no significant differences were observed in other groups. Mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) of group F (18.72±0.23) was also significantly lower when compared to group C (19.66±0.07) (p<0.05). Mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), RDW-SD, and RDW-CV showed no significant differences among the groups (p>0.05). Normochromatic and normocytic cells were moderately present in most groups (A, C, D, E), while Group B showed reduced levels with increased crenated cells. Group F demonstrated higher normocytic cell presence alongside mild crenation. Polychromatic cells were absent across all groups. Groups B showed significantly higher expression of RUNX1 when compared to groups A (p<0.05). Groups B showed significantly lower expression of ERFE when compared to groups A (p<0.05). Group C, D, E and F had significantly higher expression of ERFE when compared to group B (P<0.05). In conclusion, treatment with ferrous sulphate and varying doses of Icacina trichantha extract caused changes in red blood cell parameters and also improved ERFE expression, with the highest extract dose showing the greatest effect.

Background: Stroke is a major cause of motor impairment, death and disability globally. It often results in spastic hemiplegia due to upper motor neuron lesions, hindering activities of daily living. Clinical evidence shows that functional electrical stimulation facilitates neuromuscular re-education through electrical impulses, thus, enhancing motor recovery, improving muscle strength and promoting functional independence post-stroke. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of functional electrical stimulation on spasticity among spastic hemiplegic stroke survivors in UBTH. Methods: Simple random sampling technique was used to select 2 groups of participants; experimental and control group. A sample size of 40 participants was recruited for this study, and the FES device, MAS, MRS, FIM and demographic questionnaire was used to obtain data. Descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage distribution and inferential statistics of one way anova was used to summarize the data. Alpha level was 0.05. Results: The study demonstrated a significant reduction in upper limb spasticity following Functional Electrical Stimulation, with participants in the experimental group showing better spasticity reduction and improves activities of daily living than those receiving conventional therapy alone. Thus, confirming the clinical effectiveness of FES in modulating abnormal muscle tone among post-stroke survivors. Conclusion: The integration of FES into physiotherapy practice enhanced ADL and upper limb spasticity. Hence, is a reliable tool in post stroke rehabilitation, fostering neuro plasticity recovery and improved quality of life. Key words: Functional electrical stimulation, spasticity, stroke.

The #EndSARS protests of 2020 in Nigeria marked a significant moment in the country’s contemporary socio-political history, characterized by widespread youth-led demonstrations against police brutality and the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). This study examines the impact of social media on the mobilization, coordination, and visibility of the #EndSARS protests. Drawing on secondary data from news reports, online posts, and existing literature, the study explores how platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp were used to disseminate information, share eyewitness accounts, raise funds, and coordinate protest activities in real time. Findings indicate that social media played a critical role in amplifying the movement beyond physical locations, enabling rapid information flow and fostering solidarity among participants across different regions and the diaspora. Hashtags such as #EndSARS and #SARSMustEnd served as digital tools for awareness creation and agenda setting, while also attracting global attention and support. However, the study also highlights challenges, including the spread of misinformation, government responses such as internet restrictions in certain areas, and the use of social media surveillance. The study concludes that social media significantly shaped the dynamics of the #EndSARS protests by enhancing civic engagement and political participation among Nigerian youths. It recommends the responsible use of digital platforms for activism while encouraging policy reforms that protect freedom of expression and digital rights in Nigeria.

Background : Physical activity (PA) is crucial for reducing non-communicable diseases and enhancing quality of life among older adults, yet participation remains low, particularly in Nigeria, where inactivity rates reach over 63% among those aged 75–79. Limited context- specific research exists on barriers, benefits, and facilitators of PA among older adults in Benin City. Aim : This study aimed to investigate the perceived barriers, benefits, and facilitators of PA among older adults in Benin City, Nigeria. Method: A mixed-method cross-sectional design was employed, involving 400 community- dwelling adults aged 60 and above in Egor Local Government Area. Data were collected using the Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale (EBBS) and qualitative interviews. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA analyzed quantitative data, while thematic analysis explored qualitative responses. Results: Key barriers included exercise milieu (e.g., inaccessible facilities) and physical exertion (e.g., fatigue), while facilitators encompassed life enhancement (e.g., improved daily functioning) and psychological well-being (e.g., reduced stress). Education and marital status significantly influenced EBBS scores (p<0.05), unlike age, gender, or socioeconomic status. Conclusion: Older adults in Benin City recognize PA’s benefits but face environmental and physical barriers. Tailored interventions addressing infrastructure, health literacy, and social support are essential for promoting active aging.