FACULTY OF SCHOOL AND BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

Background/Purpose of the study: Football-related injuries remain prevalent among professional players, particularly in the lower limbs, where inappropriate footwear and lack of orthotic use contribute significantly to performance decline and increased injury risk. This study investigated the influence of footwear and orthotics usage on sports engagement among male professional footballers in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. It addressed the gap in empirical data regarding equipment choices and their biomechanical implications for injury prevention and sustained performance in low-resource football settings. Methods: A cross-sectional analytic design was adopted, involving 91 male professional footballers from clubs registered with the Nigerian Professional Football League and National Nationwide League. Data were collected using standardized instruments, including the Footwear Assessment Tool, Orthotic Satisfaction Survey, and the Sport Engagement Scale. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, while chi-square was used to determine associations between footwear and orthotic usage, players’ demographics, and sports engagement, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Findings revealed that most participants (63%) used firm-ground football boots designed for natural grass surfaces, with 68% reporting limited access to high-quality footwear due to cost and availability constraints. Among 91 male footballers, 59.3% wore shoes with 0–2.5 cm heels and 64.8% semi-curved lasts. Good shoe fit was reported by 67%, and 30.8% used orthoses, 80% of which reduced pain. Significant associations (p < 0.05) existed between shoe age, upper/outsole materials, and training persistence; lateral midsole hardness affected enthusiasm and immersion. Conclusion: The study concluded that appropriate footwear and orthotic usage positively influenced performance, comfort, and injury prevention among male professional footballers in Benin City. It recommended increased awareness, access to affordable orthotic devices, and inclusion of podiatric assessments in sports medicine programs to enhance player safety and career longevity in Nigeria’s professional football landscape.

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).

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.

Radiographers have an important role in emergency medical care.. However, their knowledge , current practices and factors influencing their participation within emergency response teams in Nigerian hospitals remain inadequately evaluated. To assess radiographers’ knowledge of their roles in emergency response, determine their current practices and level of involvement, and examine factors influencing their participation in emergency teams. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used for the study. Thirty-one radiographers at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital were included in the study using a census sampling method. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations were used, while inferential statistics (Chi-square tests) examined associations between variables, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Most radiographers demonstrated moderate knowledge of their emergency roles 16 (51.6%), while 11 (35.5%) had high knowledge and 4 (12.9%) had low knowledge. Practice level was fair in 17 ( 54.8%), good in 10 (32.3%) and poor in (12.9). Participation level among respondents was high 11 (35.5%), moderate 19 (61.3%), and low 1 (3.2%). There was a significant relationship between practice and participation (p< 0.001). Radiographers possess good awareness of their responsibilities in emergency care, particularly in performing urgent imaging and patient positioning. Practical competence significantly improved active involvement in the emergency team. There is need for continous training exercises to improve radiographers roles in emergency care. Keywords: Emergency, radiographers, knowledge, practice, participation.

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.