SCHOOL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCE

Background of the study: Physiotherapy plays a critical role in the prevention, management, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries among athletes. Despite its proven benefits, the
level of awareness, knowledge, and utilization of physiotherapy services among football players in tertiary institutions remains suboptimal. This study assessed the awareness, knowledge, attitude, and utilization of physiotherapy in the management of sports injuries among football players in a tertiary institution. Aim of the Study: This study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and utilization of physiotherapy among University of Benin football players and examine factors influencing their attitude toward physiotherapy. Methodology: Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics of percentages and frequency
table while inferential statistics of Chi Square was used for test of association between variables. Alpha level was set at 0.05
Results: Findings revealed that 87.6% of respondents had heard about physiotherapy, while 73.2% were aware of its role in managing sports injuries. However, only 69.4% demonstrated adequate overall awareness. Despite 84.5% acknowledging physiotherapy’s role in injury treatment and 81.4% in improving fitness, actual utilization was low, with only 27.8% visiting a physiotherapist when injured. The study also found that 84.1% of respondents showed negative attitudes in some domains such as stigma and gender bias, while 40.8% displayed positive overall attitudes. Major barriers included cost of services (72.2%) and lack of nearby facilities (27.8%). Conclusion: Although general awareness of physiotherapy among football players was high, knowledge, attitude, and utilization were suboptimal. Interventions such as subsidized physiotherapy services, establishment of on-campus physiotherapy clinics, awareness campaigns, and collaboration between institutional authorities and physiotherapists are recommended to enhance utilization and improve sports injury management in tertiary institutions.

The in vitro antioxidant activity of methanolic leaf extract of Azadirachta indica (Dogoyaro) was evaluated to determine its potential role in oxidative stress management. Oxidative stress arises from excess reactive oxygen species, contributing to various chronic diseases and increasing the need for safe, plant-derived antioxidants. The extract was analysed using four standard assays: DPPH radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide scavenging, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Results revealed notable antioxidant properties, with the highest DPPH activity observed at 0.20 mg/mL. Nitric oxide inhibition and reducing power also showed moderate effectiveness, particularly at lower concentrations. Although antioxidant activity remained lower than that of ascorbic acid across all assays, the extract demonstrated
meaningful free-radical-neutralizing ability and electron-donating capacity. The TAC value further indicated the presence of bioactive phytochemicals contributing to overall antioxidant strength. Overall, the findings support the potential of Azadirachta indica leaves as a natural antioxidant source capable of contributing to the management of oxidative stress–related conditions.

Introduction: Newly certified radiographers often face various challenges when transitioning from academic training to professional practice. These challenges can affect their confidence, performance and overall professional development. This study focused on identifying the major difficulties encountered by newly certified radiographers in Benin City, as well as assessing their readiness for clinical practice. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the challenges encountered by newly certified radiographers and to assess their level of professional preparedness for independent clinical practice. Methodology: A prospective survey design was used. Data were collected from 51 newly certified radiographers working in public and private healthcare facilities in Benin City using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test was used to determine the significance of the challenges identified. Results: Findings showed that most respondents experienced significant challenges during this early professional practice. The most reported issues included heavy workload (78.4%), stress and burnout (76.5%), and difficulty communicating with senior colleagues (66.7%). Although a majority (76.5%) demonstrated adequate knowledge of radiation protection, many felt less confident handling complex or emergency cases independently. The Chi-square test result (X2=201.73, p < 0.05), confirmed that these challenges were statistically significant. Conclusion: The study concluded that newly certified radiographers possess good theoretical and safety knowledge but face major challenges adapting to clinical realities. It recommends the implementation of structured mentorship, improved hands on clinical exposure, and continuous professional development programs to ease their transition into independent practice. Keywords: Newly certified radiographers, professional preparedness, workload, mentorship, clinical challenges.

Academic-related musculoskeletal disorders (ARMSDs) are increasingly common among university students due to prolonged sitting, poor posture, and
extended study hours. This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of ARMSDs among undergraduates, with a focus on ergonomic behavior, academic workload, and demographic characteristics. A descriptive cross- sectional research design was adopted, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to undergraduates. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the prevalence and patterns of ARMSDs, while Chi- square tests and Binary Logistic Regression were employed to identify significant associations and predictors of ARMSDs. Results: Findings revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, especially in the neck, lower back, and shoulders. The Chi-square analysis showed that academic workload and academic level were significantly associated with ARMSDs (p < 0.001), while gender and ergonomic behavior were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The Binary Logistic Regression model further identified academic level as the only significant predictor of ARMSDs (B = 0.006, p = 0.001, Exp(B) = 1.006), The model explained approximately 6.9% of the variance in ARMSDs (Nagelkerke R² = 0.069). Conclusion: The study concludes that academic workload and progression are major contributors to the development of ARMSDs among undergraduates. These findings underscore the cumulative effects of academic stress, prolonged study duration, and suboptimal posture on students’ musculoskeletal health. iii
Keywords: Academic-related musculoskeletal disorders, undergraduates, ergonomic behavior, academic workload, Chi-square analysis.

Background: Workflow efficiency is critical to the quality and timeliness of radiological services. In many healthcare institutions, inefficiencies such as staff shortages, equipment downtime, and poor coordination negatively impact productivity and patient satisfaction. Optimizing workflow ensures better service delivery, faster turnaround times, and improved staff performance.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate workflow optimization and efficiency in the Radiology Department of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), identifying the major factors affecting workflow and assessing how existing work processes and staff interactions influence
efficiency.
Method: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Structured questionnaires
were administered to 41 respondents (radiographers and radiology staffs) at UBTH. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).
Results: The findings revealed that 60% of respondents perceived the departmental workflow as moderately efficient, while 26% rated it as highly efficient and 14% considered it inefficient. Major factors affecting workflow included equipment breakdown (72%), inadequate staffing
(68%), and delayed report generation (64%). Conversely, 74% of participants agreed that teamwork and proper task coordination improved workflow, and 70% affirmed that the use of digital imaging systems enhanced overall efficiency.
Conclusion: Workflow efficiency in radiology can be enhanced through improved communication, staff training, adequate resource allocation, and the adoption of automation and digital technologies. Regular workflow evaluations and continuous quality improvement
initiatives are essential for sustaining efficiency in radiological services.
Keywords: Workflow Optimization, Efficiency, Radiology Department,

Male infertility is a prevalent and distressing condition affecting millions of couples globally, with significant psychosocial consequences. While conventional semen analysis, particularly sperm count, remains the cornerstone of male fertility evaluation, it frequently fails to fully explain reduced fertility or predict successful conception, especially in idiopathic male infertility. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between seminal plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity and sperm quality indices among males investigated for infertility in Benin City. The seminal plasma CK activity, and semen analysis were evaluated in 75 men investigated for infertility and 50 men with proven fertility using spectrophotometric and microscopic techniques respectively. Chi square, Student –t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient were used compare and correlate the variables. The mean age of men investigated for infertility (40.32 ±1.51)years was not significantly different from the control subjects (41.20 ± 1.20)years (p>0.05). When the age was stratified, a significant difference was observed between the two groups (X2=0.036). Seminal plasma CK activity of men investigated for infertility (756.45 ± 23.7)IU/L was markedly higher (p=0.001) compared with the controls (412.60 ±19.56)IU/L. The sperm count (18.30 ± 11.04 vs 38.18 ± 9.60)x106/ml, volume (2.20 ±0.02 vs 2.75 ±0.06)ml, total motility (14.30 ± 3.10 vs 42.20±2.40)%, viability (18.32 ± 0.20 vs 59.18 ± 2.5)%, progressive motility (11.60 ±2.20 vs 34.22 ±2.60)% were markedly lower in men investigated infertility compared with controls. Conversely, the abnormal morphology (27.89 ±1.50 vs 7.30±2.50)% was markedly higher in infertile men than controls. Sperm count, total motility, viability and progressive motility correlated negatively with CK, while abnormal morphology correlated positively with creatine kinase activity (p<0.05). High CK activity suggests poor sperm quality among men with infertility.

Pericardial adipose tissues are combined fats from pericardial sac and surrounding external surfaces of the pericardium. Excess deposits often lead to cardiovascular disorders and other heart related diseases. There are claims that an herbal decoction called Aju Mbaise (a combination of medicinal plants wrapped as a combo pack) can be used to treat heart related diseases including obesity which affects many people world-wide. Despite the existing information on Aju Mbaise and its healing claims, there is paucity of scientific data on the effects on pericardial adipose tissues. Therefore, this study was to examine histopathology changes in pericardial adipose tissues of lard-palm kernel cake (L-PKC) diet-fed rats treated with Aju Mbaise herbal decoction. The specific objectives were to investigate the effects of the present herbal decoction on body weight, adiposity indices and lipid profile of experimental rats. Samples of fresh L-PKC were obtained from Uselu market, Benin City while Aju Mbaise was purchased online. Each component was identified and authenticated by an expert taxonomist in the University while voucher numbers were issued for each constituent. Sixteen (16) Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes, weighing (149-175g) were obtained from a research animal farm in Benin City. Animals acclimatized for 2weeks in Anatomy department University of Benin with ambient temperature (26±3°C), humidity (50% - 60%) and photoperiodicity (12:12hr). They were kept in clean steel gauzed cages and c conut husks used as beddings in a light and humid environment. Rats were fed on standard pellets and water provided adequately.

Sodium nitrate is used as a preservative in processed meats and poultry products across the country. Though, production of nitric oxide and nitrite may prevent various types of cardiovascular disease including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and stroke.
However,health concerns relating to cancer andleukaemia have not been ruled out. Therefore, this project was to examine histological changes inliver and kidney of white rats treated withsodium nitrate salt. Other objectives were to determine its
effects on liver enzymes, and electrolytes and urea.Twenty (20) in-bred white rats of both sexes, aged: 2-4 months and weighed 160-200g were randomly picked to form five (5) groups (n=4) labeled A to D as test while E served as control. Rats were
housed in plastic cages with saw dust as beddings and acclimatize for 2 weeksat temperature (25±5ºC), humidity (54-59%) and periodicity (12:12hrs) in a clean environment while Standard top feed® and water were provided regularly. Five gram
(5g) of nitrate salt was measured with a weighing balance into a sterile conical flask while 1L of distilled water was added with a standard measuring cylinder and agitated vigorously with the GFL shaker for 5minutes until all dissolved. Rats in groups A to
D were treated orally for 30days at 2days interval in this order: 5mg/kg, 10mg/kg, 15mg/kg and 20mg/kg body weight. Each rat was picked with a hand towel and administeredadequate dosages using the oro-gastric tube. After experimentation,
animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation while 4mL of blood was collected from the cardiac region for liver and kidney function test. The corresponding parameters were assayed with a spectrophotometer at varying wavelengths. The liver
and kidney were excised, grossedand processed histologically.Sections were cut at 3 5um and stained according to H&E method. Sections were examined using Swift(R) binocular microscope with an in built light system and photographed with an Olympus
photomicroscope. Data were presented as Means ± SD and analyzed with one way ANOVA and Duncan post hoc test whiletest of significance was set at p <0.05 withSPSS version 16. All animals showed signs of partial anorexia, dullness and
developed reduced activities but were pronounced in high dose treated rats (C and D) for the 30 days treatment. High dose treated ratslost more weight than those on lesser treatment regime while the control gained more weight. All parameters (K, Na, CL, HC03, urea and creatinine) for renal profile were within normal range. They were significantly expressed (P ≤ 0.003) across all groupsincluding liver function test (TB, CB, TP, ALB, AST, ALT and ALP)indices (P ≤ 0.05). No variation in colouration by
gross examination while and histopathology findings were in keeping with normal histology of the liver and kidney. From the results so far,sodium nitrate has no deleterious effects on histology of the visceral organs studied but daily intake abuse of
the salt particularly in a large concentration may be injurious to human health

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a significant comorbidity among individuals living with HIV/AIDS, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study assessed the prevalence and distribution of intestinal parasites among HIV/AIDS patients attending ART clinics at a secondary health facility in Benin City. A total of 150 patients were recruited and stool samples were examined microscopically.Sociodemographic,clinical,andhygienerelated data were also collected using structured questionnaires, and associations were analyzed using chi-square tests.. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 28.7%. The most frequently detected species were Entamoeba coli, followed by Entamoeba histolytica, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Trichuris trichiura. Prevalence was higher among females than males in both hospitals, with a statistically significant association (p = 0.042). Rural residence was also significantly associated with infection (p = 0.001). Other factors, including age, marital status, education, occupation, and hygiene practices, showed variations but no significant statistical associations. Widows and patients with tertiary education recorded disproportionately higher prevalence, while inconsistent hand washing, irregular deworming, and animal contact were linked with increased infection risk,though not statistically significant.IPIs remain common among HIV/AIDSpatients in Benin City despite ART availability. Gender, rural residence, and socioeconomic vulnerabilities contribute to the persistence of infection. Routine stool screening, targeted deworming, gender- sensitiveinterventions, and improved sanitation in rural areas are recommended to reduce the burden of parasitic co-infections and improve HIV treatment outcomes.

This study evaluates the hematoprotective effects of ethanol leaf extract of Acalypha wilkesiana on Wistar rats exposed to 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH), a carcinogen. The experiment involved nine groups of rats with varying treatments: normal control, positive control with DMH and Xeloda (Capecitabine), and several groups receiving different doses of Acalypha wilkesiana extract both before and after DMH exposure. Hematological parameters analyzed included Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC). Results demonstrated significant changes in these parameters among treated groups. Rats treated with Acalypha wilkesiana extract exhibited increased MCV, MCH, and MCHC levels compared to controls, indicating potential hematoprotective properties. Specifically, groups receiving the extract showed improvement in red blood cell indices affected by DMH, suggesting its efficacy in mitigating DMH-induced hematological damage. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic application of Acalypha wilkesiana in managing hematological disorders caused by carcinogenic agents. Further research is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of action and optimize dosage for clinical use. Overall, this research opens promising avenues for utilizing natural remedies to enhance patient well- being and combat hematological abnormalities