FACULTY OF SCHOOL AND BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

Plasmodium berghei, a rodent malaria parasite, is widely utilized in experimental models to investigate malaria-induced pathology. This study evaluated the histopathological effects of graded parasitemia on cardiac tissues of albino rats. Sixteen (n = 16) adult female albino rats weighing 130–174 g were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 4 per group): a control group (uninfected) and three treatment groups inoculated intraperitoneally with low (~1 × 10²), medium (~1 × 10⁴), and high (~1 × 10⁶) concentrations of parasitized red blood cells (iRBCs). The animals were housed under standard conditions at the University of Benin Histopathology Laboratory and observed for 42 days. At the end of the study, hearts were harvested, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, processed, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histopathological analysis. The results showed that across all treatment groups, cardiac myocytes retained normal histological features, including peripherally placed nuclei, abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, striated fibers, and intact intercalated discs. No evidence of necrosis, vacuolation, fibrosis, or inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the myocardium. Morphometric analysis of body and organ weights revealed no significant differences in initial weight (p = 0.706), final weight (p = 0.553), or heart weight (p = 0.939) between groups. These findings suggest that P. berghei infection, within the experimental timeframe and across the administered parasite concentrations, does not produce overt histopathological or morphometric alterations in the cardiac tissue of Wistar rats. Further studies incorporating molecular and functional assessments are recommended to explore potential subclinical or biochemical cardiac effects of malaria parasitemia

Teleradiology represents a vital solution to Nigeria’s healthcare challenges, particularly the shortage of radiologists and uneven distribution of healthcare services. Despite its potential benefits, adoption remains limited in Benin City. This study assessed the knowledge, perception, and acceptance of teleradiology among radiographers in Benin City. A descriptive cross- sectional survey was conducted among 46 radiographers from University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and Ray Touch Diagnostics Center. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 29. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and means, were computed. The majority of respondents were aged 20-29 years (84.8%), male (63.0%), and had 1-5 years of experience (69.6%). Knowledge of teleradiology was high, with 93.5% correctly defining teleradiology and 97.8% identifying image types that can be transmitted. Perception towards teleradiology was generally positive, with mean scores ranging from 3.30 to 3.43 for benefits, though concerns existed about internet connectivity (mean = 3.11). Acceptance was high across all dimensions, with mean scores between 2.98 and 3.39, indicating readiness to adopt teleradiology systems. Radiographers in Benin City demonstrated good knowledge, positive perception, and high acceptance of teleradiology. However, infrastructure concerns, particularly internet connectivity, remain barriers to implementation. Stakeholders should invest in reliable internet infrastructure, provide comprehensive training programs, and develop clear implementation policies to facilitate successful teleradiology adoption in Benin City. Keywords: Teleradiology, Knowledge, Perception, Acceptance, Radiographers, Benin City, Nigeria.

Background: While the biopsychosocial (BPS) model is the recommended framework for the management of Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP), there is a paucity of study on the knowledge, attitude and beliefs of BPS model among physiotherapists in Nigeria. Aim: This study investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of physiotherapists in South- South Nigeria regarding BPS interventions for NSCLBP and to determine the influence of sociodemographic factors on these variables. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving 80 licensed physiotherapists (46 male, 34 female). Data were collected via an online questionnaire comprising a self- developed knowledge assessment tool on BPS and the validated Pain Attitudes and Beliefs Scale for Physiotherapists (PABS-PT). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and Chi- square tests were used to analyze associations between variables at p < 0.05. Results: The findings revealed that all respondents (100%) agreed that psychological support, participation in return to work and social interaction are core components of BPS interventions. Respondents also demonstrated predominantly positive attitudes and beliefs aligned with the BPS model, acknowledging the influence of mental stress (85%) and coping with stress (91.3%). Gender was significantly associated with knowledge of patient self-management (p=0.030), educational level with beliefs about exercise for severe pain (p=0.016), and years of experience with knowledge of treatment standardization (p=0.033). Conclusion: Physiotherapists in South-South Nigeria show a strong theoretical understanding and positive orientation towards the BPS model for managing NSCLBP. However, the influence of demographic factors on specific aspects of their knowledge and beliefs suggests a need for targeted continuing education. These findings can inform curriculum development and professional training to enhance the practical application of holistic, evidence-based LBP care across the region. Keywords: Biopsychosocial Interventions, Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain, Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs.

Background: The prevalence of mental health disorders is on the rise, significantly impacting health, social dynamics, and human rights, and causing substantial consequences globally. Among these mental health challenges, depression stands out as a pervasive issue, especially affecting university students. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, prevalence, and influencing factors related to depression among undergraduate students at the University of Benin in South-South Nigeria. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted at the University of Benin, Nigeria, aimed to assess depression among full-time undergraduate students. Utilizing a multi- stage sampling technique, 460 students were selected. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographics, knowledge of depression, prevalence (using PHQ-9), and associated factors. Ethical considerations were addressed, including confidentiality measures. Results will contribute to understanding the prevalence of depression and associated factors among university students. Results: The ages of respondents were between 15-39 years and 269 (58.5%) of respondents were within the age group of 20-24 with the mean age being 23.5. More than half 253(55.0%) of the respondents were females while males constituted 207 (45.0%) of the respondents. Among the respondents, 104 (22.6%) were in 200L, 120 (26.1%) in 300L, 119 (25.6%) in 400L, 78 (17.0%) in 500L and 39 (8.5%) in 600L. Overall knowledge score for depression was good (66%). There was a significant relationship between knowledge of depression and study level (χ 2 =9.533, p=0.048) of the respondents. The prevalence of depression among the respondents was 239 (52%). The risk factors that were 1 significantly related were alcoholism, use of psychoactive drugs, heartbreak, sexual abuse, poor interpersonal relationships with colleagues, financial problems, and death of a loved one, as well as long stay in school, previous personal and family history of depression, and failed examinations. Conclusion: The knowledge of depression among undergraduates is notably high, with a disturbing prevalence, with risk factors ranging from environmental, socioeconomic, medical, psychological, academic, and familial factors.

Background: Menopause marks a significant transition in women’s lives, often accompanied by physiological, psychological, and social challenges that impact quality of life. Postmenopausal women often struggle to meet recommended physical activity levels due to barriers such as lack of motivation, time constraints, and inadequate facilities. Conversely, facilitators such as social support and health awareness can encourage participation. This study explores the perceived barriers and facilitators of physical activity among postmenopausal women within an academic environment. Aim: This study aims to investigate the perceived barriers and facilitators influencing physical activity participation among postmenopausal women at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. Method: This cross-sectional study investigated the perceived barriers and facilitators of physical activity among postmenopausal women at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. Fifty participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires, including the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL), Physical Activity Barriers Questionnaire (PABQ), and Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (ESES). Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted using SPSS, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Among the respondents, 44% demonstrated high physical activity levels, 38% moderate, and 18% low. The mean self-efficacy, barriers, quality of life, and metabolic equivalent scores were 44.02±9.20, 88.28±18.09, 90.34±7.44, and 2961.93±3730.76, respectively. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed no significant relationships between barriers and physical activity levels (p=0.539) or self-efficacy and activity levels (p=0.105). Additionally, a positive but non- significant relationship was observed between physical activity levels and quality of life (p=0.080). Conclusion: The study concluded that perceived barriers and facilitators had non-significant relationships with physical activity levels and quality of life among postmenopausal women in the University of Benin. While demographic factors such as education and marital status likely mediate these associations, the findings emphasize the complexity of physical activity behaviors in this population. There is a need to address individual and contextual factors to better
understand and promote physical activity

Nickel chloride (NiCl2) is a widespread environmental contaminant that causes neurotoxicity, with the cerebellum showing particular vulnerability due to its central role in motor coordination and high metabolic demands. Memantine, a non-competitive
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. It is hypothesized that its neuroprotective properties could be beneficial in the mitigation of cerebellar damage caused by nickel chloride. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of memantine on the nickel chloride induced cerebellar toxicity in wistar rats. Forty-eight rats were divided into eight groups: Control, nickel chloride only, high dose of memantine + nickel chloride, low dose of memantine + nickel chloride, high dose of memantine, low dose of memantine. The treatment protocol ran for 28 days. A served as control and received 1ml of distilled water daily to compensate for stress of administration, whereas, rats in group B received 2.5mg/kg of NiCl₂, rats in group C received 10mg/kg Og memantine(low dose) and 2.5mg/kg of NiCl₂, rats in group D received 20mg/kg of memantine (high dose) and 2.5mg/kg of NiCl₂, rats in group E received 10mg/kg of memantine (low dose) and rats in group F received 20mg/kg of memantine (high dose). Administration of memantine was done orally using an orogastric tube while the administration of nickel chloride was done via intraperitoneal injection. It lasted for 28days. The body weight of the rats were recorded daily. At the end of the experimental period, the rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and the organ( cerebrum) weight was recorded. The parameters accessed include cerebral antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH), MDA concentration and the histology of the cerebrum using
Hematoxylin and Eosin staining technique. Results obtained showed no significant change (p>0.05) in the initial body weight and final body weight. A significant decrease (p<0.05) was observed in the weight change of rats in group B when compared to control, however, a significant increase (p<0.05) was observed in the weight of groups C and D when compared to group B. No significant change (p>0.05) was observed in the cerebellar and relative cerebellar weight of rats across experimental groups. A significant decrease (p<0.05) was observed in cerebellar SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH activity of rats in group B (2.5 mg/kg bw. NiCl2) when compared to the control. A significant increase (p>0.05) in cerebellar MDA concentrations was observed in the weights of rates in group B (2.5 mg/kg bw. NiCl2 ) when compared with group A. Severe histological alterations in the cerebellum of nickel-chloride exposed rats were observed. However, pre-treatment with memantine mitigated the adverse effects induced by NiCl2. In conclusion, findings from this study shows that memantine exerted antioxidant properties as well as mitigating the histological alterations in the cerebellum.

The use of traditional medical therapy is an important method in the treatment and management of diseases in the African continent and this could be as a result of social, cultural and economic lifestyles. Pharmacologically, the active ingredients found in pyrenacantha staudtii can be extracted and used to cure and prevent numerous diseases. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of aqueous extract of pyrenacantha staudtii on the undamaged spleen of adult wistar rats. Thirty adult wistar rats weighing between 110g and 200g were used for this experiment with five rats in each group. All rats were allowed two weeks of acclimatization and they all had equal access to feed and water. Group A was the control and was not administered with any extract. Group B was administered with a low dose of the extract(100mg). Group C was administered with a medium dose of the extract(200mg). Group D was administered with 400mg of the extract. Group E was administered with 800mg of the extract. Group F was administered with 1600mg of the extract. All the rats were administered with the extract for 35 days. On the 36th day, the rats were sacrificed via chloroform anaesthesia and the spleen were harvested immediately and preserved in 10% formal saline for tissue processing using H&E for histological analysis

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a major health problem in Nigeria, contributing greatly to illness and death. Nutrition and iron balance play key roles in how the disease progresses. Body mass index (BMI) affects the general health of SCA patients, while changes in iron levels, whether too low or too high, can worsen anemia and related complications. This study examined the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and iron indices among adult sickle cell anemia (SCA) patients attending the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos and to determine their association with disease severity. A cross-sectional analytical design was adopted, involving 45 confirmed HbSS patients and 45 HbAA age- and sex-matched controls. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, pain frequency, and disease severity were obtained using structured questionnaires, the Adult Sickle Cell Quality of Life
Measurement Information System (ASCQ-ME), and the Modified Disease Severity Scoring System for SCA. Anthropometric variables were measured following
standard protocols, and BMI was classified based on WHO criteria. Blood samples were analyzed for full blood count, serum iron, serum ferritin, and total iron-binding
capacity (TIBC) using standard ELISA and spectrophotometric techniques. Disease severity score was obtained for each Hbss subject by summing up the scores for crisis rate, number of complications and degree of anemia. HbSS total scores of <3 were considered to have mild anemia. Those with score of > 3 but < and =7 were taken have moderately anemia while subjects with scores > 7 were deemed to have severe
anemia. Most participants were young adults. In the SCA group, 46.7% were aged 18–25, while 40% of the control group fell within this range. Participants aged 26–35 constituted 20% of the SCA group and 17.8% of controls. Those aged 36–45
represented 22.2% of the SCA group and 28.9% of the controls. Smaller proportions were observed in the 46–55 age bracket, with both groups recording 8.9%. Only a few
participants were 56 years and above, comprising 2.2% of the SCA group and 4.4% of the control group. The SCA patients had significantly lower hemoglobin (HGB), packed cell volume (PCV), and red blood cell (RBC) counts compared to controls (p
< 0.001). Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were significantly higher in SCA subjects (p < 0.001). Ferritin concentrations were markedly elevated (p < 0.001), whereas TIBC was significantly reduced (p < 0.001). Serum iron levels did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.05). BMI distribution indicated that 28 (62.2%) of the SCA subjects had normal weight, 13
(28.9%) were underweight, and 4 (8.9%) overweight. Lower BMI correlated with more severe anemia and higher disease severity scores (p < 0.05). Painful crises were common, with vaso-occlusive crisis and acute chest syndrome observed in all patients, while mild to moderate anemia predominated (75.6%). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that low TIBC and elevated serum ferritin are frequent among adult
SCA patients, reflecting chronic inflammation and increased iron stores within the reticuloendothelial system. Nutritional monitoring and iron indices evaluation should be integral to routine care for SCA patients to reduce disease complications and improve quality active life.

Miracle Seed Ultima® (MSU) is widely used as a natural supplement, yet scientific evidence on its safety profile remains limited. This study therefore evaluated the sub-acute toxicity effects of MSU on liver function and lipid metabolism in male Wistar rats. Twenty rats were randomly assigned to four groups and administered 0 mg/kg (control), 100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg of MSU orally for 28 days. Liver biomarkers including ALT, AST, ALP, total protein, albumin, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin were analysed, while lipid profile parameters (total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and VLDL) were assessed.The results showed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) in AST, ALP, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, or albumin levels across all doses. However, ALT increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the 300 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg groups compared with the control, with mean values of 147.35 ± 12.9ᵃ (control), 135.00 ± 8.7ᵃᵇᵈ (300 mg/kg), and 200.56 ± 22.2ᵃᶜᵉ (1000 mg/kg), indicating a dose-related biochemical change. Total protein decreased significantly in the 100 mg/kg group 4.06 ± 0.1ᵃ (control) and 3.39 ± 0.1ᵇᶜ(100mg/kg), although values remained within physiological ranges. Lipid parameters showed no statistically significant alterations, indicating that the observed slight increase in total cholesterol in Group 3 and reduced triglycerides in Group 2 were not biologically meaningful since they were not statistically supported.Overall, the findings indicate that MSU did not produce broad hepatic or lipid toxicity within the 28-day period. Although ALT increased at higher doses, a single enzyme elevation without corresponding changes in other hepatic markers does not conclusively indicate liver damage. Nevertheless, the dose-dependent rise suggests a potential early biochemical response that warrants further attention. The study highlights the need for additional investigations involving histopathology, oxidative stress markers, and long-term exposure to more conclusively establish the safety profile of MSU

Aseptic technique is maintaining a sterile environment to stop the spread of infections in medical settings (Carrisa, 2018). For patients to be protected from healthcare-associated infections (HAI), aseptic technique is a critical infection prevention capability (Stephen and Simon, 2018). The use of surgical gloves, surgical attire, preoperative aseptic skin preparation, aseptic instrument
preparation, and aseptic environment management are all examples of aseptic method practices