BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

Background: Stroke continues to be one of the world's leading causes of long-term disability and a major factor in the exclusion of working-age adults from the workforce. Although there is little data from Southern Nigeria, returning to work (RTW) following a stroke is a key sign of effective rehabilitation and reintegration.

Aim: This study aimed to determine the socio-demographic, clinical, and psychosocial determinants of return to work among stroke survivors in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

Methods: 67 stroke survivors who were 18 years of age or older and undergoing physical therapy at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital and Edo Specialist Hospital participated in a cross-sectional study. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) for cognitive function, the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) for stroke severity, the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) for disability, the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) for functional ability, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), the Social Support Questionnaire (SSQ), and the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) were among the standardised tools used. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data, and Chi-square tests were employed for inferential statistics to ascertain the relationship between RTW and variables with p < 0.05.

Results: The majority of participants 50 (75%) returned to work following stroke. Significant associations were observed between RTW and age (χ² = 9.216, p = 0.027), cognitive function (χ² = 8.544, p = 0.014), disability level (χ² = 12.463, p = 0.002), self-efficacy (χ² = 10.138, p = 0.019), and social support (χ² = 9.804, p = 0.012). While gender, marital status, stroke type, stroke laterality, stroke severity, and self-esteem were not significantly related. Younger survivors with better cognitive and functional abilities and higher self-efficacy and social support were more likely to return to work.

Conclusion: Functional independence, cognitive capacity, and psychosocial factors such as self- efficacy and social support are critical to post-stroke work reintegration. Rehabilitation programs should integrate vocational training, psychological empowerment, and family support to improve RTW outcomes.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a crucial diagnostic technique that provides detailed information about soft tissues without exposing patients to ionizing radiation. MRI has a lot of benefits, but it also has a lot of safety dangers because of its strong magnetic fields and radiofrequency exposure.This study assessed the understanding and knowledge of MRI safety issues among clinical radiography students at the University of Benin. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and tables and percentages were utilized to present the findings. The results of the study showed that while the majority of participants understood MRI safety to a respectable degree, there were noticeable gaps in their knowledge of screening protocols, emergency response,and identification of magnetic field zones.Students who had attended formal MRI lectures or participated in clinical MRI rotations demonstrated better safety knowledge compared to those who had not. In conclusion, while radiography students at the University of Benin exhibit a fair level of awareness of MRI safety, there is still a need for more comprehensive inclusion of MRI safety education and simulation-based learning within the curriculum. Improving MRI safety training during undergraduate studies will enhance safe clinical practice and minimise the likelihood of safety incidents.

Background: Chest X-ray (CXR) is the most widely requested imaging investigation for the immediate evaluation of patients involved in road traffic accidents (RTAs). A single posteroanterior (PA) chest radiograph can rapidly identify fractures of the rib cage as well as pulmonary and pleural pathologies such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pulmonary contusion, which are critical for early clinical decision-making. Objective: To identify common fractures and other pathologies on chest radiographs of road traffic accident patients in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). Methods: A retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. Data were collected by reviewing chest radiographs and radiological reports of 184 patients involved in road traffic accidents between January 2022 and December 2024. The distribution of chest wall fractures, fracture patterns, and associated thoracic pathologies was analyzed. Results: Middle rib fractures (4th–8th ribs) were the most common, accounting for 73.5% of cases, followed by upper rib fractures (29.7%) and lower rib fractures (29.2%). Sternal fractures were identified in 10.8% of patients, clavicular fractures in 13.5%, and scapular fractures in
6.5%. Non-displaced fractures were the predominant fracture type, while displaced, comminuted, and segmental fractures were also observed. Associated thoracic pathologies included pneumothorax (22.7%), hemothorax (18.9%), and pulmonary contusion (15.1%), with their incidence increasing significantly in patients with multiple or complex fracture patterns. Conclusion: Rib fractures were the most frequently identified pathology on chest radiographs of RTA patients, followed in descending order by pneumothorax, hemothorax, pulmonary contusion, clavicular fractures, sternal fractures, and scapular fractures. The distribution and complexity of xi fractures on chest X-ray were strong indicators of associated thoracic complications, reinforcing the value of conventional chest radiography in trauma evaluation at UBTH.

Ethical conduct is central to radiographic practice, ensuring professionalism, patient
safety, and trust in healthcare. Radiographers, however, frequently encounter ethical
dilemmas that influence their clinical decisions and adherence to professional
standards. This study investigated the nature and frequency of ethical challenges faced
by radiographers in selected hospitals and diagnostic centers within Benin Metropolis, as well as their effects on professional judgment and patient care. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted. Data were obtained through
structured, self-administered questionnaires distributed to 72 respondents, including
licensed radiographers and final-year radiography trainees in both public and private
health facilities. Participants were selected using stratified and simple random
sampling techniques. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social
Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages
were used to summarize findings, while Chi-square analysis tested the hypothesis at a
0.05 level of significance. Results indicated that radiographers often encountered ethical challenges relating to
patient confidentiality, informed consent, and professional pressure. The chi-square
test revealed a significant association between ethical dilemmas and professional
decision-making (p < 0.05), suggesting that ethical issues significantly affect
radiographic practice and patient outcomes. The study concluded that ethical dilemmas are prevalent among radiographers in
Benin Metropolis and can influence their professional integrity and service delivery. Strengthening ethical awareness through continuous education, professional
workshops, and institutional policy enforcement is essential for improving ethical
standards and promoting patient-centered care.

Background: Work-related stress is a major occupational health challenge in healthcare settings, particularly among healthcare professionals who are interns transitioning from academic training to clinical practice. Moreover, prolonged exposure to stress can negatively affect job performance, mental well-being, and quality of patient care. This study investigated the prevalence, sources, consequences of work-related stress among interns of the University of Benin Teaching hospital (UBTH) Benin City, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 188 interns selected through stratified random sampling from seven clinical departments in UBTH. Data were collected using Demographic and Work profile Questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS— 10) tools. Descriptive statistics summarized prevalence and stressors, while inferential statistics examined relationships between stress and demographic variables using SPSS version 27.0 Results: The results of the study indicated that most respondents (81.9%) experienced moderate stress, 6.9% high stress, and 11.2% Low stress. Major stressors included excessive workload, poor communication with Supervisors, and Lack of appreciation. Stress negatively affected concentration (40.4%), quality of patient care (40.4%), and motivation (36.7%). Physical and psychological symptoms reported included fatigue, headaches, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depressive feelings. No significant association was found between stress Levels and age, gender, department, duration of internship, number of patients attended daily, or weekly working hours (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Work-related stress is highly prevalent among interns at UBTH and impacts their performance and well-being. Institutional interventions, including stress management programs, supportive supervision, and moderated workload, core recommended to improve intern welfare and patient safety

Background: Physical disabilities resulting from stroke, spinal cord injury (SCI), and traumatic brain injury (TBI) pose significant challenges to affected individuals, yet comparative assessments of these conditions remain limited in Nigeria. Understanding the determinants of disability in these populations is crucial for developing targeted rehabilitation strategies. Aims: This study aimed to compare the level of physical disability and its determinants among stroke survivors, SCI patients, and TBI patients, providing insights into their unique rehabilitation needs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 60 participants (20 per group). Data on demographic and health variables were collected using structured questionnaires and validated tools, including the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). One-way ANOVA was used to identify significant differences among groups. Results: The mean age of participants was 56.27 ± 10.70 years, with a mean condition duration of 5.60 ± 6.85 years the average score for the general health status (GS) was 32.05 ± 9.0. The WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) had a mean score of 21.65 ± 13.6. WHODAS scores suggested moderate disability across groups, with SCI patients showing higher scores, although not statistically significant (p = 0.053). Cognitive function remained preserved across all groups, as evidenced by high MMSE scores (mean: 29.97). the mean PHQ score was 5.70. ±4.3, the mean for PSS was 18.95 ±6.3, the mean BBS was 28.62 ±24.27. Conclusion: SCI patients exhibit greater impairments in balance and mobility compared to stroke and TBI patients.

This study examined the knowledge, self-care practices, and glycemic control among diabetic patients in a tertiary institution in Benin City. Using semi-structured questionnaires, data was gathered from 230 respondents. Findings revealed that the majority (81.7%) of the respondents had type 2 diabetes, with 73% living with diabetes for 0-5 years. Knowledge of diabetes varied, with 53% exhibiting fair knowledge and only 18.3% demonstrating good knowledge levels. Self-care practices were generally poor, with only 16.5% adhering to a healthy meal plan and regular physical activity. Factors such as family and environmental support significantly impacted self-care. Furthermore, 87% of participants exhibited poor glycemic control, with significant associations found between self-care practices and glycemic control (p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that married individuals and those aged 41-50 had higher odds of good knowledge and glycemic control. In conclusion, this study highlights the critical need for improved diabetes education and support structures within the population, as inadequate knowledge and self-care practices were prevalent among respondents. Interventions targeting family and community support, along with increased accessibility to healthcare resources, are essential to enhance self-care practices and glycemic outcomes in diabetes management.

The contamination of stored food products by pesticide residues has become a major concern due to its potential health risks and environmental implications. Pesticides, widely used for pest control in agriculture and storage facilities, can leave residues that persist in food products, leading to human exposure through consumption. This study investigates the presence and concentration of pesticide residues in stored beans using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis, focusing on two commonly used pesticides—dichlorvos and cypermethrin. These pesticides are frequently applied to stored grains to protect against insect infestation, but their residues may pose significant risks if present in excessive amounts. In this research, samples of stored beans were collected from multiple storage facilities to assess pesticide contamination levels. The HPLC method was optimized for high sensitivity and precision, ensuring accurate detection and quantification of dichlorvos and cypermethrin residues. The analysis revealed varying concentrations of pesticide residues across different samples, with some exceeding the maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by regulatory authorities. These findings highlight the potential risks associated with consuming contaminated beans, particularly concerning chronic exposure to pesticide residues, which has been linked to adverse health effects such as neurological disorders, endocrine disruption, and carcinogenicity. The study also explores the regulatory framework governing pesticide residue levels in food products, emphasizing the necessity of strict compliance with food safety guidelines. The findings underscore the importance of regular monitoring and enforcement of pesticide regulations to prevent excessive contamination of food commodities. Additionally, the study discusses the impact of storage conditions on pesticide persistence, noting that factors such as temperature, humidity, and storage duration can influence residue degradation or accumulation. Given the health risks associated with pesticide residues, this research advocates for the adoption of safer and more sustainable pest control strategies in food storage. Integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, including biological control methods, improved storage techniques, and reduced chemical dependency, should be prioritized to minimize the presence of harmful in food products. The study also suggests the need for further research into alternative storage practices that effectively preserve food quality while ensuring consumer safety. In conclusion, the detection of dichlorvos and cypermethrin residues in stored beans raises significant food safety concerns. The results of this study emphasize the urgent need for improved monitoring, stricter regulation, and the promotion of alternative pest control methods to ensure the safety and sustainability of food storage systems. By implementing proactive measures, policymakers, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders in the agricultural sector can contribute to minimizing pesticide contamination and safeguarding public health.

BACKGROUND – Malaria is still a huge problem at the moment. Given the growing resistance to orthodox drug, herbal extracts have plummeted in Nigeria. Vulnerable groups like under 5’s are most affected. Interestingly, end organ damage has also been on the increase. Hence, these concerns prompted this study.
AIM- The study aimed to determine the therapeutic and histo-morphological effects of
administration of “Agbo iba” multi-herbal extract.
METHODOLOGY – 42 Juvenile Wistar rats of different sexes, weighing an average of 97.5g, aged between 6-7weeks were assigned into 6 groups of 7 rats each(n=7). Phytochemical analysis was done on the extract as well as estimation of the LD50 prior to the study Group l was the negative control given only feeds and water, Group 2 (untreated group), 3, 4, 5 and 6 were the treated groups which were induced with Plasmodium berghei by injecting 0.2mls of diluted parasitized red blood cells intraperitoneally to the animals in these groups prior to treatment. Group 3(standard drug group), was treated thereafter with 0.6mls (6.72mg) of the constituted ACT twice daily for 3 days, while Group 4, 5 and 6( low, moderate and high dose groups), were given low dose (0.2ml), moderate dose (0.4ml) and high dose (0.6ml) of the extract respectively for one week. The rats were sacrificed at the end of the experiment and blood serum was obtained for microbiological and biochemical assay. The kidneys and liver were excised, weighed and fixed in 10% formol saline and prepared for light microscopy using the staining method for H & E. Data was presented as figures and tables, and subjected to statistical analysis.
RESULT-The standard drug group had a 90% clearance of parasiteamia compared to the herbal drugs with a clearance ranging from 60 to 85%. The results showed a decrease in ALT which was statistically significant (p< 0.05) in the untreated group compared to the control and treated group .The result also showed a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) of ALT in the group with higher doses of the extract compared to the control. Similarly, serum AST was significantly decreased in the standard drug and low dose groups and bilirubin was significantly decreased across the six groups, when compared to the control( p<0.05). Furthermore serum urea was significantly increased in the high dose group. When compared to the control (p<0.05).The untreated group had a significantly increased liver weight compared to the control. Histologically group l (control) had normal findings, group 2(untreated group) showed histopathological changes in the liver which revealed marked sinusoidal congestion, peri-portal infiltrates and hemozoin pigments in malaria infection which reduced to different degrees in group 3,4,5 and 6 on treatment with the standard drug and increasing concentrations of the herbal drug extract respectively, though not dose dependent.
CONCLUSION- The ‘Agbo iba’marketed in Benin City has some anti-plasmodial activity that was somewhat comparable to the orthodox drug though not dose dependent and not as effective as the orthodox drug. There was however no significant damage to the vital organs with use of the herbal drug

The global consumption of energy drinks and caffeine-containing beverages has increased due to their stimulating effects, yet concerns regarding their impact on oxidative stress remain largely unaddressed. This study investigates the effects of energy drinks and caffeine on oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA), in heart and kidney tissues. Fifty (50) young Sprague-rats weighing between 164g-250g were used for this study. The rats were divided into five groups; Group 1 as control (n=10) received water, Group 2 (n=10) received 5ml of energy drink, Group 3 (n=10) received 10ml energy drink, Group 4 (n=10) received 5ml of caffeine 0.89mg/kg b.w., Group 5 (n=10) received 10ml of caffeine 2.0mg/kg b.w. The various doses of energy drinks and caffeine were administered orally daily for six weeks .Weight of rats were taken weekly, at the end of the experimental period, the rats were sacrificed and organs collected into plain tubes filled with normal saline solution. Oxidative stress parameters were measured using spectrophometric method. Results were presented as standard error of mean (SEM). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the means of tests and control value while the post-hoc test was done using Dunnett’s multiple comparison tests and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results showed that energy drinks increased antioxidant enzyme activities in the heart but also elevated MDA levels, indicating oxidative stress. Caffeine reduced antioxidant activity in the heart and increased MDA levels in the kidney, signifying oxidative damage. These effects were tissue-specific and dose-dependent, highlighting potential health risks. In conclusion, excessive consumption of energy drinks and caffeine may pose health risks due to oxidative stress. Therefore, public awareness and regulatory measures are essential to mitigate these effects.