Department of Medical Laboratory Science

Ionizing radiation is known to trigger a wide range of genetic and epigenetic modifications that disrupt cellular equilibrium and activate stress response pathways. This study aimed to evaluate the transcriptional behavior of two iron metabolism–associated genes, Transferrin 1 (TSF1) and Transferrin 2 (TSF2), in Drosophila melanogaster subjected to
X-ray and low-dose CT room radiation. These transferrin genes are central to maintaining iron balance and epithelial stability, making them valuable candidates for assessing molecular alterations induced by radiation exposure. Adult flies were exposed to radiation for 7 and 14 days, after which total RNA was extracted and analyzed using semi- quantitative RT-PCR, with GAPDH serving as an internal control for normalization. The results revealed a consistent and significant elevation in TSF1 expression under both radiation types. For instance, expression levels increased from control values of 67.77 ± 1.84 to 80.14 ± 1.00 at day 7 and further to 85.97 ± 1.43 by day 14 under X-ray exposure. A similar trend was observed in CT room–exposed flies, where expression rose to 80.20 ± 0.72 at day 7 and 86.28 ± 1.85 at day 14. This persistent upregulation suggests that TSF1 plays a protective role by enhancing iron sequestration and transport, thereby reducing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and limiting oxidative injury. In contrast, TSF2 demonstrated a biphasic expression profile. An initial increase was recorded at 7 days post-exposure (72.23 ± 2.39 following X-rays), but expression declined sharply at 14 days, particularly in CT-exposed flies (57.76 ± 1.94) relative to control levels (61.96 ± 1.14). In Conclusion, This pattern indicates an early, short-lived adaptive response followed by suppression, possibly reflecting tissue vulnerability and compromised epithelial barrier function under chronic radiation stress.

Reproductive health disorders are increasingly prevalent due to environmental and dietary factors, necessitating investigation into natural therapeutic alternatives. This study aimed to examine the histopathological effects of Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) leaf extract on the reproductive organs of albino rats. Twenty-four healthy albino rats weighing 180-200g were divided into four groups: Group A (control, n=2) received pellets and distilled water; Groups B, C, and D (n=4 each) were administered 250mg/kg, 500mg/kg, and 1000mg/kg of Cymbopogon citratus leaf extract respectively via oral gavage for one month. After treatment, animals were euthanized, blood samples collected for hormonal analysis using ELISA kits, and reproductive organs harvested for histopathological examination using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results revealed normal ovarian histomorphology across all groups, with follicles containing oocytes surrounded by theca and granulosa cells at different maturation stages. Most testicular sections showed normal seminiferous tubules with Sertoli cells and sperm cells at various maturation stages. However, Group C1 exhibited testicular atrophy characterized by shrunken seminiferous tubules with thickened basement membranes and reduced germ cell populations. Significant hormonal changes were observed in Group B, showing significant differences in both testosterone and progesterone levels compared to controls (p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in organ weights or full blood count parameters across all groups. The findings suggest that Cymbopogon citratus leaf extract exhibits dose-dependent effects on reproductive tissues, with moderate doses potentially causing testicular atrophy and hormonal alterations. While the extract demonstrated minimal effects at low and high doses, the intermediate dose showed adverse effects, highlighting the importance of dosage optimization in herbal medicine applications for reproductive health

In an effort to enhance sexual performance, some individuals resort to using aphrodisiac substances such as sildenafil (Viagra). This study was conducted to assess the effects of sildenafil on the heart and testicular tissues of adult albino rats. A total of 18 male albino rats, each weighing between 200g and 220g, were obtained from the animal house at Anatomy Department. The rats were randomly assigned into three groups (A, B, and C), with six rats per group. Group A served as the control and received only standard feed and water. Group B rats were administered sildenafil orally at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight, dissolved in saline, daily for four consecutive weeks. Group C rats received a higher dose of 10 mg/kg body weight for the same duration, followed by an additional four-week withdrawal period without treatment. Body weights were recorded at the beginning of the experiment (week 0) and on the final day prior to sacrifice. At the end of the experimental period, all animals were sacrificed, and tissue samples were processed for histological analysis. Serial tissue sections were cut at 5 µm thickness using a microtome and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Selected tissue sections were documented through photomicrography. Results indicated that the 10 mg/kg dose of sildenafil led to a notable increase in monocyte and granulocyte counts, while red blood cell levels decreased across the treated groups. Weight measurements revealed only minor differences between the control and sildenafil-treated groups after the four-week period. Histological examination of testicular tissues from the 10 mg/kg group showed mild necrosis in cardiac muscle fibers, seminiferous tubules, and interstitial tissues. Additional findings included vascular congestion, hypertrophy of Leydig cells, and degeneration of spermatogonial cells. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into the molecular mechanisms triggered by prolonged exposure to PDE5 inhibitors. Such research may guide the safer and more effective therapeutic use of aphrodisiacs, particularly when administered at lower doses and for shorter durations.

Tomato spoilage results from adverse changes in quality driven by biological and physical factors, including microbial activity and mechanical damage. Globally, about one-third of tomato produce is lost before reaching consumers due to physical damage (e.g., bruises, mechanical breakage) and microbial activity from fungi and bacteria. This study was aimed at evaluating the fungi spoilage of tomatoes. Standard microbiological methods were used to determine the total fungal count of the samples. The fungi isolates were characterized and identified using morphological and cultural methods. The findings from this study revealed a high fungal burden in tomatoes sold across the surveyed markets, with total counts ranging from 9.0 × 10 4 to 14.0 × 10 4 cfu/g. Using the standard cultural, morphological characterization, the fungi isolates obtained in this study were Aspergillus niger, Fusarium spp., Rhizopus spp., Alternaria spp., Penicillium citrinum, Cladosporium spp. The in vitro and in vivo pathogenicity assessments confirmed that many of the isolates were not merely surface contaminants but active spoilage agents. Most of the fungi demonstrated strong pathogenicity on inoculated tomatoes, a finding that correlates with their hemolytic activity on blood agar. Antifungal susceptibility testing revealed variable resistance profiles among the isolates. While some fungi were inhibited by antifungal agents such as voriconazole and fluconazole, others displayed low sensitivity to drugs like nystatin and ketoconazole. The findings therefore emphasize the urgent need for integrated postharvest management strategies that combine proper handling, improved storage, strict hygiene practices, and the adoption of eco-friendly control methods.

Photocopying which is the act of paper duplication has become an indispensable activity in academic and business settings which is increasingly been recognized as a source of environmental and occupational hazards. Photocopier machines release emissions containing ultrafine toner particles, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ozone and heavy metals. Studies reveals that prolonged exposure to these chemical agents among occupationally exposed individuals is associated with respiratory problems, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses and haemotoxicity. Hence, this research was aimed to evaluate selected immunological indices in male photocopier operators who are occupationally exposed to photocopier emissions in university of Benin campus in Benin City. A total of ninety (n=90) participants were used for this study; comprising of sixty (n=60) exposed and thirty (n=30) non-exposed after administering well structural questionnaires. Eight (8) milliliters of venous blood was collected from ante cubital fossa after routine daily work (6-8 hours) using vacutainer
and were dispensed into EDTA and Plain containers for total white blood cell count, Differential cell count, Cluster cell of differentiation count (CD4 + T- Lymphocyte cell) and serum levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) respectively. Total white blood cell and Differential cell count were analyzed using SFRI haematology auto-analyzer, CD4 + count using Partec Cyflow counter and serum IgE level was assay using ELISA technique. Data were analyzed using Statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 28. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), Chi-square and analysis of variance Statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. Total white blood counts (Twbcs), Lymphocytes and monocytes, Absolute Lymphocyte and serum IgE level were significantly higher (p< 0.001) among occupationally exposed group (5.42 ± 0.18, 48.47±1.03, 16.45±0.42, 2.55±0.07 and 2.159±5.92) compared with the non-exposed group (4.01 ± 0.07, 34.31±0.54, 9.61±0.18, 2.11±0.15 and 1.580±3.95) respectively. While Granulocytes and CD4 + cell count were Significantly lower(p<0.001) among
occupationally exposed group (35.16±1.02 and 658.31±19.10) when compared with
non-exposed group (56.08±0.70 and 955.69±97.48). From this study we observed that continuous exposure to photocopying emissions resulted in increased levels of some immunologic parameters and decreased levels in others.

Ionizing radiation is known to trigger a wide range of genetic and epigenetic modifications that disrupt cellular equilibrium and activate stress response pathways. This study aimed to evaluate the transcriptional behavior of two iron metabolism–associated genes, Transferrin 1 (TSF1) and Transferrin 2 (TSF2), in Drosophila melanogaster subjected to X-ray and low-dose CT room radiation. These transferrin genes are central to maintaining iron balance and epithelial stability, making them valuable candidates for assessing molecular alterations induced by radiation exposure. Adult flies were exposed to radiation for 7 and 14 days, after which total RNA was extracted and analyzed using semi- quantitative RT-PCR, with GAPDH serving as an internal control for normalization. The results revealed a consistent and significant elevation in TSF1 expression under both radiation types. For instance, expression levels increased from control values of 67.77 ± 1.84 to 80.14 ± 1.00 at day 7 and further to 85.97 ± 1.43 by day 14 under X-ray exposure. A similar trend was observed in CT room–exposed flies, where expression rose to 80.20 ± 0.72 at day 7 and 86.28 ± 1.85 at day 14. This persistent upregulation suggests that TSF1 plays a protective role by enhancing iron sequestration and transport, thereby reducing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and limiting oxidative injury. In contrast, TSF2 demonstrated a biphasic expression profile. An initial increase was recorded at 7 days post-exposure (72.23 ± 2.39 following X-rays), but expression declined sharply at 14 days, particularly in CT-exposed flies (57.76 ± 1.94) relative to control levels (61.96 ± 1.14). In Conclusion, This pattern indicates an early, short-lived adaptive response followed by suppression, possibly reflecting tissue vulnerability and compromised epithelial barrier function under chronic radiation stress.

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have emerged as a transformative technology in healthcare delivery, particularly for improving logistics in resourcelimited settings. Despite their potential to address delays caused by poor infrastructure and traffic congestion, their successful implementation depends largely on the awareness, knowledge, and acceptance of healthcare workers. This study therefore aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of drone use in medical facilities among hospital staff in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was adopted, involving one hundred and fifty-three (153) hospital staff comprising doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, logistics personnel, and administrators at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). Data were collected using a structured 23-item questionnaire covering demographics, awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of drone use in healthcare. Responses were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, with Chi-square tests applied at a significance level of p < 0.05. The results showed that 65.1% of respondents had heard of drones being used in healthcare, and 65.8% were aware of their application in delivering medical supplies. However, only 9.9% had practical exposure by visiting a facility where drones were in use. A large majority (93.4%) believed that drones could improve the delivery of medical supplies in hospitals, and 73.0% supported their use for rural healthcare delivery. Furthermore, 53.3% expressed high willingness and 32.2% moderate willingness to receive training in drone technology. Despite this positive outlook, knowledge gaps were observed, as 59.8% of participants could not correctly define UAV. In conclusion, this study revealed moderate awareness but limited knowledge of drone applications in healthcare among hospital staff in Benin City. Although exposure to real-life drone operations was low, the strong willingness to receive training highlights an opportunity to promote adoption. These findings underscore the need for targeted training, policy support, and pilot projects to bridge knowledge gaps and harness drone technology for healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

Icacina trichantha, known for their medicinal use possessing bioactive compounds with anti inflammatory and hematopoietic properties, offer promises for novel treatments. This study explores the effect of the aqueous leave extract on Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) expression to elucidate the molecular mechanisms driving its therapeutic action. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the effect of Icacina trichantha aqueous leaves extract on Cyclooxygenase 1 expression in Aluminum 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, aluminum chloride group, ferrous sulphate group, aluminum chloride + 100mg/kg leaf extract of Icacina trichantha, aluminum chloride + 200mg/kg leaf extract of Icacina trichantha and aluminum chloride + 400mg/kg leaf extract of Icacina trichantha groups respectively. 5 milliliters (ml) of blood sample was drawn from each rat, and haematological parameters and mRNA of COX-1 were determined using a SRFI Haematology autoanalyzer and polymerase chain reaction respectively. Data obtained was analyzed using the GraphPad prism 8.02 software.The comparison of Haematological parameters amongst the study groups showed that there was no significant difference in Total white blood cell count (TWBC μL) across the groups. Platelet Distribution Width (PDW) was significantly lower in group E (8.96±0.27) when compared to group D (10.6±0.31) (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in other platelet parameters across the groups. Group C and D showed significantly lower expressions of COX-1 when compared to group B (p<0.05).Group C, D and E had significantly lower expression of COX-1 when compared to group F (p < 0.05). Groups E had significantly higher expressions of COX-1 when compared to group A, and significantly lower expression when compared to group B (p<0.05). Groups F had significantly higher expressions of COX-1 when compared to group A (p<0.05). In conclusion, administration of aluminum chloride resulted in no significant difference in white blood cell counts. There was also no alteration in platelet parameters, except PDWwhich showed slight difference. Administration of leaf extract of Icacina trichantha led to
alteration in the gene expression of COX-1.

Iron homeostasis is vital for numerous physiological processes, including oxygen transport, cellular respiration, and erythropoiesis, and its imbalance can result in anemia or iron overload. The transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) plays a central role in this regulation by mediating iron uptake at the cellular level. Given the limitations of synthetic modulators of iron metabolism, the search for natural alternatives has gained scientific attention. Piperguineense, commonly known as uziza, is a West African spice rich in phytochemicals with reported hematopoietic and antioxidant properties. This study therefore, aimed to investigatethe effect of varying concentrations of aqueous Piper guineense leaf extract on TfR1geneexpression in Drosophila melanogaster, a model organism widely used due to its conservedgenetic similarity with humans. Flies were divided into five groups: a control group and four treatment groups receiving 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/ml of the extract, respectively. Survival rate was monitored for 21 days, while molecular analysis was conducted through RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, and semi-quantitative PCR. The 100 mg/ml group demonstrated the highest survival rate and a TfR1 expression level comparable to the control
(2.28 ± 0.07 vs 2.30 ± 0.10), suggesting maintenance of normal iron uptake. At 200 mg/ml, a slight decline in TfR1 expression (2.10 ± 0.08) was observed relative to the control, while300 mg/ml produced a more pronounced reduction (1.97 ± 0.06). The 400 mg/ml group showed the lowest expression (1.89 ± 0.05), indicating significant dose-dependent downregulation. These findings implied that low concentrations may enhance or preservenormal iron metabolism, whereas higher doses may suppress transferrin receptor activity, potentially disrupting iron uptake. It is therefore recommended that Piper guineense extract
be used in low doses for beneficial hematologic modulation, and further studies be conducted to isolate its active compounds and assess safety thresholds in mammalian systems

Diabetes mellitus remains a major global health burden, necessitating the search for safer and more effective alternatives to conventional therapies. Medicinal plants such as Phyllanthus niruri have gained attention due to their bioactive compounds with potential antidiabetic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antidiabetic activities of the polar and non-polar extracts of P. niruri using different biochemical assays. Relevant background information and supporting literatures were obtained from peer-reviewed journals through scientific search engines, including PubMed, Resaearchgate, MDPI, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. Fresh plant samples were collected, dried, powdered, and extracted using ethanol (polar) and diethyl ether (non-polar). The crude extracts were concentrated and assayed for antidiabetic activity. Alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition were determined using Dinitrosalicylic Acid (DNS) and p-Nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside (pNPG) substrate methods, respectively. Lipsase activitity was assessed with p-nitrophenyl butyrate, while glucose adsorption was evaluated by incubating extracts with glucose solutions and measuring residual concentrations. Acarbose served as the reference drug. The extracts demonstrated significant and concentration-dependent inhibition of alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase enzymes, with maximum inhibitory values of 58.3% and 62.9% for alpha-amylase, and 73.9% and 75.6% for alpha-glucosidase, respectively. These indicate that P. niruri exhibits substantial enzyme inhibitory activity comparable to standard antidiabetic agents, confirming its potential to slow carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption. Glucose adsorption assays showed moderate binding activity, while lipase activity was notably stimulated, especially in the non-polar extract, which recorded 489.7 µmol/g at 160 mg/mLsuggesting additional effects on lipid metabolism. Although the extracts exhibited lower potency compared to acarbose, their consistent inhibitory actions suggest the presence of active phytochemicals such as flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds. The findings indicate that P. niruri possesses multi-targeted antidiabetic effects through enzyme inhibition, glucose binding, and lipid metabolism modulation. These results provide pharmacological evidence for its traditional use in diabetes management and recommend further studies, including in vivo analyses, to establish its therapeutic potential as a complementary agent for glycaemic control.