BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

Salbutamol, montelukast, and prednisolone are widely used in the management of respiratory disorders. Despite their therapeutic benefits, their effects on pulmonary oxidative stress and antioxidant defenses, particularly when used in combination, remain unclear. This study evaluated the influence of these agents on oxidative stress markers and total protein concentration in lung tissue. Experimental animals were divided into five groups (n = 8 group): 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 activities superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)—and oxidative stress markers, including hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and nitric oxide (NO). Data were expressed as mean ± SEM and analyzed using one-way ANOVA with significance set at p < 0.05. Total protein concentration significantly increased only in the salbutamol/prednisolone-treated group compared with the negative control (p < 0.05). This group also exhibited significant decreases in SOD, CAT, and GPx activities relative to both negative and positive controls (p < 0.05), indicating reduced antioxidant capacity. In contrast, salbutamol/montelukast and prednisolone/montelukast treatments did not alter protein concentration or most antioxidant enzymes compared with the negative control, although CAT and GPx were decreased relative to the positive control (p < 0.05). Hydrogen peroxide levels were significantly elevated in salbutamol/montelukast and prednisolone/montelukast groups compared with the negative
control (p < 0.05), while NO levels did not differ significantly among groups. However, compared with the positive control, NO concentration increased in salbutamol/prednisolone and salbutamol/montelukast groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, combination therapy with salbutamol and prednisolone reduces pulmonary antioxidant enzyme activity while increasing total protein, suggesting mild oxidative stress. Montelukast-containing combinations primarily modulate hydrogen peroxide without major effects on protein content or overall antioxidant capacity. These findings indicate that drug combinations exert differential effects on lung oxidative homeostasis, highlighting the need for careful evaluation of pulmonary redox status during combination therapy.

This study assessed the knowledge, beliefs, and risk factors associated with Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) among female undergraduate nursing students at the University of Benin. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design and structured questionnaire, findings revealed a generally high level of BV knowledge, though gaps exist regarding its asymptomatic nature. ommon misconceptions included the belief that poor hygiene and sexual activity are primary causes. Key risk factors identified were recent antibiotic use, tight clothing, and improper hygiene Practices. Despite these issues, students demonstrated a Strong willingness to adopt educational strategies like seminars, curriculum integration, and peer education. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions and improved reproductive health education to better prepare future nurses and reduce BV prevalence. Limitations include the Study’s restriction to one institution, limiting generalizability. Recommendations include incorporating BV education into nursing curricula, promoting peer-led discussions, and organizing regular health campaigns.

This study evaluates wound care knowledge and practices Among nurses in tertiary health facilities in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 200 nurses to assess the wound care practices and identify associated factors among nurses in selected tertiary hospitals in Benin City, through a structured questionnaire focusing on Their demographic characteristics, adherence to established wound care protocols, and the factors influencing their practices. The findings revealed that the nursing workforce was
predominantly female (71.0%), with a mean age of 33 years and a significant proportion (52.5%) having less than five years of experience. Adherence to wound care practices varied, with a majority of nurses demonstrating competence in essential procedures, such as wound classification (𝑥ത = 2.22)and use of antibacterial cleansers (𝑥ത = 2.22). However, advanced
techniques like negative pressure wound therapy (𝑥ത = 1.44) were rarely utilized. Overall, 55% of respondents exhibited high adherence to wound care protocols, particularly in infection control. Factors identified as significantly influencing wound Care practices included time constraints (𝑥ത = 3.03), and inadequate training (𝑥ത = 2.98). The study concluded that significant relationships exist between adherence levels and demographic variables such as gender, age, educational qualification, and years of experience. However, recommendations include enhancing resource allocation, improving training programs, and fostering mentorship among nursing staff to elevate wound care standards and improve patient outcomes in the studied institutions.

Background/Aim: Physical activity (PA) is vital for health promotion, yet its knowledge, ttitudes, and practices (KAP) remain sub-optimal among university students globally. his study aimed to assess the KAP of physical activity among undergraduate students at the University of Benin and explore barriers to their engagement. Methods: A descriptive ss-ectional study design was employed, and data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to 398 undergraduate students. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and a validated KAP tool were used to assess physical activity levels, knowledge, attitudes, and practices respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study revealed that 61% of participants had w knowledge of physical activity, while only 8.3% demonstrated high knowledge. Most articipants (73.1%) engaged in moderate activity, while 18.1% were inactive, and 8.8% engaged in high levels of physical activity. Misconceptions persisted, with 19.6% perceiving physical activity as potentially harmful. Lack of time (84.7%) and motivation 2.8%) ere the most reported barriers to engagement. Gender and academic level significantly influenced physical activity practices (p < 0.05), with male and lower-level students participating more actively. Conclusion: Knowledge and practices of physical activity among students were sub-optimal, with notable misconceptions and barriers influencing engagement. Targeted health education campaigns, accessible activity programs, and institutional support are essential to addressing these gaps and promoting physical activity among students.

The African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is a crucial economic crop, widely cultivated for its oilrich kernels. Palm kernel seed oil (PKSO) is a significant source of essential minerals such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu), but concerns exist regarding potential contamination with toxic heavy metals like cadmium (Cd). This study aims to determine the mineral composition of PKSO and assess its implications for human health and food safety. Palm kernel samples were obtained from New Benin Market, Benin Metropolis, Edo State, Nigeria. The oil extraction process involved heating, grinding, and pressing the kernels. Mineral analysis was conducted using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) after acid digestion. Quality assurance measures included duplicate analyses and blank sample validation to ensure data reliability. Results showed that PKSO contained Fe (2.23 ± 0.21 mg/100g), Zn (1.86 ± 0.04 mg/100g), Cu (0.64 ± 0.49 mg/100g), and nitrogen (174.16 ± 4.57 mg/100g). Cadmium (Cd) was undetectable, indicating no toxic heavy metal contamination. These findings suggest that PKSO is safe edible oil with oderate mineral content, contributing to essential dietary micronutrient intake.However, its relatively low Fe and Zn levels necessitate complementary dietary sources. The absence of toxic metals highlights its safety, but ongoing monitoring is recommended to prevent environmental contamination. This study underscores the nutritional value and safety of PKSO, contributing to food quality control and public health areness.

Background: Exercise, while generally beneficial, can become compulsive and addictive, negatively impacting an athlete’s physical and psychological health. Understanding the prevalence of this condition and its relationship with key well-being indicators is crucial for identifying at-risk individuals and developing effective intervention strategies among athletic populations. Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of exercise addiction among amateur athletes and examine the association between exercise addiction, psychological well-being (specifically depression, anxiety, and stress), and perceived social support within this population. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study utilizing a consecutive sampling technique to recruit a sample of amateur athletes from the University of Benin. Data were collected using three standardized self-report instruments: the Exercise Addiction Inventory (EAI), the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Social Support Questionnaire (SSQ). Descriptive statistics were used to determine prevalence, while inferential statistics, such as correlation analysis, were employed to explore the association between the variables. Results: The study identified a quantifiable prevalence of exercise addiction among the amateur athletes. Significant associations were found, indicating that increased levels of exercise addiction were positively correlated with higher levels of psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress). Conversely, there was a statistically significant inverse correlation between exercise addiction and the level of perceived social support. Conclusion: Exercise addiction is a significant issue among amateur athletes at the University of Benin and is strongly associated with poor psychological well-being and reduced social support. These findings highlight the need for screening for exercise addiction in sports settings and incorporating psychological support and social network strategies into athlete welfare programs to mitigate the associated risks.

Exposure to neurotoxic substances like nickel chloride poses significant risks to neurological health. Vinpocetine, a synthetic derivative of the alkaloid vincamine acts as a phosphodiesterase- 1 inhibitor, modulating intracellular signaling and enhancing cerebral metabolism. It improves cerebral blood flow and supports synaptic plasticity, by increasing cyclic GMP and reducing neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative damage by reducing oxidative stress. Accordingly, this study was aimed at investigating the possible neuroprotective activity of vinpocetine on Nickel Chloride-induced neurotoxicity in adult Wistar rats. In this study, Fourty-two (42) Wistar rats was randomly divided into six (6) groups (n=7). Group A rats served as the control group to be given 1ml of distilled water. Group B rats was administered Nickel Chloride only at a dose of 5mg/kg body weight. Group C rats was administered 2.5mg/kg body weight of Vinpocetine and 5mg/kg body weight of Nickel Chloride. Group D rats was administered 5mg/Kg body weight of Vinpocetine and 5mg/kg body weight of Nickel Chloride. Group E rats was administered with 2.5mg/Kg body weight of Vinpocetine only and group F rats was administered with 5mg/Kg body weight of vinpocetine. Neurobehavioral activities were assessed 24 hours before the last administration, and at the end of the experimental period, the rats were weighed and sacrificed, and the body and brain weight changes, antioxidant enzymes activity, as well as histological assessment of the cerebrum. Results indicate that nickel chloride administration led to significant decrease on body weight, brain weight, neurobehavioral activity, and antioxidant enzymes levels, while increasing lipid peroxidation. However, pretreated rats with Vinpocetine mitigated these detrimental effects induced by nickel chloride. Vinpocetine supplementation was associated with improved body and brain weight, enhanced neurobehavioral performance, elevated antioxidant enzyme levels. This study sheds light on vinpocetine's potential as a neuroprotective agent against nickel chloride-induced neurotoxicity, suggesting its importance in preventing or mitigating neurological disorder caused by nickel chloride.

Evaluation of radiography students’ clinical competence in positioning techniques at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) was conducted using a descriptive cross-sectional survey involving 206 clinical-year students (300, 400, and 500 levels). Self-assessment data were analyzed via T-tests and ANOVA to identify competence levels and influential factors within the clinical learning environment. The overall self-perceived competence mean was 2.80 (SD=0.91) on a 4-point scale, significantly above the moderate threshold (𝑝 < 0.001). Proficiency was uneven, showing strong performance in routine projections (Chest, 𝑀 = 3.19) but substantial weakness in specialized techniques (Contrast Studies, 𝑀 = 2.02).
Analysis revealed that despite high student ratings for supervision quality, primary structural barriers were the large number of students (57.3%) and uncooperative patients (48.1%), leading to limited hands-on opportunities (𝑀 = 2.53). A significant finding was that 71.4% of students reported anxiety regarding radiation exposure. The study concludes that structural constraints and psychosocial factors impede skill acquisition for complex procedures. Recommendations include institutional action to reduce the student-to-case ratio and the integration of mandatory simulation training to ensure graduates achieve consistent, independent positioning competence.

This study investigated the influence of parental interaction on the behavioral outcomes of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). The research was motivated by the critical role of caregiver involvement in the developmental progress of children with ASD. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. A total of 112 parents and caregivers of children diagnosed with ASD participated in the study through structured questionnaires and open-ended questions. The findings revealed that while most parents possessed a reasonable understanding of ASD and demonstrated emotional warmth and responsiveness, many struggled with behavior management skills such as consistent limit-setting and structured guidance. Statistical analyses, including Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression, confirmed significant relationships between the quality of parental interaction and behavioral outcomes in children. Limit-setting and responsiveness emerged as the strongest predictors of reduced challenging behaviors and improved social communication and self-regulation. Qualitative analysis further emphasized the effectiveness of structured routines, visual supports, and positive reinforcement while highlighting barriers such as caregiver inconsistency, limited resources, and lack of training. The study concluded that emotional responsiveness, though vital, must be complemented by consistent behavioral strategies for optimal outcomes in children with ASD. It recommends nurse-led training programs, improved access to support resources, and interdisciplinary collaboration in care delivery. The research highlights the need for ongoing support and family-wide education to enhance parental competence and child development. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and include broader cultural contexts for greater generalizability

Sesamum indicum L. (Pedaliaceae), commonly known as sesame, is one of the world’s oldest oilseed crops, valued for its high oil content (40–60%) and diverse medicinal applications. Beyond its culinary importance, sesame possesses a wide array of secondary metabolites that contribute to its pharmacological and nutritional properties. This study focused on the qualitative and quantitative determination of total tannin, saponin, and alkaloid contents in sesame seeds to evaluate their phytochemical potential. Dried sesame seeds were procured from a local market in Edo State, Nigeria, and processed
following standard phytochemical procedures. The qualitative screening confirmed the presence of tannins, saponins, and alkaloids, while quantitative evaluation revealed that tannins were the most abundant phytochemical (21.27 + 0.35 g TAE/kg), followed by saponins (20.08 ± 0.33g DE/kg) and alkaloids (9.10 ± 0.49 %). The presence of these bioactive compounds indicates that sesame seeds possess strong antioxidant
and therapeutic potential. Tannins contribute to antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, saponins play a role in cholesterol regulation and immune modulation, while alkaloids are associated with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. The findings support the traditional use of sesame in herbal medicine and suggest its further application in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.