SCHOOL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES COLLEGE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES

Parasitic diseases are problems wherever poultry are raised whether in large commercial operations or in small backyard flocks, and economic losses caused by parasites on poultry can be significant. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in poultry, focusing on chickens and turkeys slaughtered in Benin City, Southern Nigeria. A total of 150 fecal samples were analyzed, comprising samples from 35 broilers, 30 native fowls, 35 layers, and 50 turkeys. The fecal samples was processed using standard Parasitological techniques, and then viewed microscopically. Prevalence rates varied significantly among the different bird species, with the highest total prevalence observed in Native fowls (143.3%), followed by Broilers (60.0%), Layers C(54.3%), and Turkeys (40.0%). Notably, Ascaridia galli was the most prevalent parasite overall (60.4%), with the highest prevalence in native fowls (63.3%). The study also found significant geographical variations in parasite prevalence. In broilers, Ascaridia galli prevalence was significantly different across the LGAs (p=0.045), with the highest rate in Ikpoba-Okha (33.3%). Similarly, in native fowls, Strongyloides avium showed a significant difference (p=0.003), with a high prevalence of 60.0% in Ikpoba-Okha. In turkeys, the prevalence of Ascaridia galli varied significantly across the LGAs (p=0.043). The findings highlight that poultry in the study area are widely infected with gastrointestinal parasites, emphasizing the need for targeted management strategies and regular treatment to mitigate infection risks

Despite the importance of clinical postings in providing practical experience for radiography students of the University of Benin, various challenges hinder the students' ability to maximize the benefits of this experience. This study assessed the challenges faced by radiography students of the University of Benin during clinical postings. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to 194 radiography students across three academic years. Reliability was established using Cronbach's alpha (0.71). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28, employing descriptive statistics and ANOVA for hypothesis testing. The findings revealed that time constraints (88.7%), difficulty understanding complex procedures without guidance (85%), and limited access to equipment (74.2%) were the most significant challenges. These challenges negatively impacted students' hands-on experience, understanding of procedures, and overall progress in radiography education. Students primarily coped through self-directed learning (89.2%), seeking guidance from other healthcare professionals (82%), and peer support (73.2%). However, only 24.8% felt adequately prepared for professional practice. Demographic factors were analyzed using ANOVA to identify significant relationships with perceived challenges. Recommendations include restructuring clinical posting schedules, establishing formal mentorship programs, implementing simulation-based education, and reducing student-to-supervisor ratios. The study provides valuable insights for improving clinical education in radiography at the University of Benin

Urinary tract pathogens are increasingly resistant to conventional antibiotics, prompting interest in plant-derived bioactive agents. This study evaluated the phytochemical profile and antibacterial potential of Cinnamomum tamala bark extracts against selected clinical isolates. Dried bark samples were subjected to aqueous and ethanolic extraction, followed by phytochemical screening using GC–MS analysis. Antimicrobial activity was carried out using ditch plate and agar well diffusion methods, while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were determined via agar dilution techniques. The ethanolic extract demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition, with zones of inhibition ranging from 8.25 ± 4.8 mm at 50 µg/mL to 21.75 ± 2.93 mm at 800 µg/mL, showing significant differences across concentrations (p = 0.034). The aqueous extract exhibited no effect at low concentrations but was active at higher concentration, producing inhibition zones up to 6.50 ± 3.77 mm, significantly different across groups (p < 0.001). MIC results indicated stronger activity for the ethanolic extract, particularly against E. coli (12.5 µg/mL), compared to the aqueous extract, which required higher concentrations (100–200 µg/mL) across organisms. Similarly, ethanolic MBC values ranged between 25–100 µg/mL, significantly lower than the consistent 200 µg/mL required for the aqueous extract. Phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and phenols in both extracts, while saponins and glycosides were exclusive to the aqueous extract, and steroids and resins were unique to the ethanolic extract. GC–MS analysis identified major constituents including Squalene (21.13%), 9- Octadecenoic acid (17.62%), and 13-Octadecenal (16.89%) in the ethanolic extract, while the aqueous extract was dominated by 9-Borabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane (28.24%) and Cyclopropane derivatives (17.04%). These findings highlight the potent antibacterial efficacy of C. tamala ethanolic extract, particularly against E. coli, with activity linked to its terpenoid and fatty acid constituents. The results suggest that C. tamala may serve as a promising source of natural antimicrobials.

Cerebellar dysfunction, marked by impaired coordination and balance, often result from toxic or degenerative damage to cerebellar neurons. Excessive exposure to manganese chloride, a neurotoxic compound, disrupts neuronal integrity through oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to motor and structural deficits. Vanillin, a natural phenolic compound with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown potential in mitigating such neurotoxic effects. This study therefore investigated the protective effect of vanillin against manganese chloride–induced cerebellar toxicity in Wistar rats. Forty-eight (48) Wistar rats were randomly assigned into six groups (A-F). Group A rats served as the control group; Group B rats were administered 10 mg/kg body weight of manganese chloride; Group C rats were administered 20 mg/kg body weight of vanillin and 10 mg/kg body weight of manganese chloride; Group D was administered 40 mg/kg body weight of manganese chloride and 40 mg/kg body weight of vanillin; Group E was administered 20 mg/kg body weight of vanillin; Group F was given 40 mg/kg body weight of vanillin. All administrations lasted for twentyeight (28) days. Neurobehavioural activities were evaluated using the open field, movement initiation, step and string Tests. Results from the study revealed that rats exposed to manganese chloride exhibited significant (p<0.05) weight loss, motor deficit, impaired antioxidant defense, elevated lipid peroxidation and degeneration of Purkinje cells and molecular layer neurons. However, pre-treatment with Vanillin significantly (p<0.05) mitigated these manganese chloride-induced cerebellar alterations in Wistar rats. Overall, the findings from this study indicate that vanillin possesses strong antioxidant properties, supporting its potential as an effective therapeutic agent for the treatment and management of manganese chlorideinduced cerebellar dysfunction

Annona muricata (soursop) is a tropical plant widely used in traditional medicine for various ailments, yet comprehensive safety data on its effects on vital organs remain limited. This research aimed to investigate the histopathological effects of Annona muricata leaf extract on liver, kidney, testis, and ovaries of albino rats. Twenty-four healthy albino rats weighing 180-200g were procured from the Animal House of the Department of Anatomy, University of Benin, and maintained under standard conditions with unrestricted access to feed and water. The rats were divided into four groups: Group A (control, n=2) received pelleted feed and distilled water; Group B (n=4) was administered 250mg/kg soursop extract; Group C (n=4) received 500mg/kg; and Group D (n=4) was given 1000mg/kg extract orally via gavage for one month. Following treatment, animals were euthanized, blood samples collected for biochemical analysis, and organs harvested for histopathological examination. Results revealed no significant changes in hematological parameters, liver function tests, or reproductive hormone levels across all groups (p > 0.05). However, kidney function analysis showed significant elevation in sodium (143±3.8 mEq/L) and chloride (107.3±0.5 mEq/L) levels in the highest dose group compared to controls (p < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed normal architecture in the control group organs. Groups B and C exhibited hepatic steatosis with microvacuolar degeneration, while Group D maintained normal liver histology. All kidney, testis, and ovary sections demonstrated preserved normal architecture across treatment groups. The findings suggest that Annona muricata leaf extract exhibits a complex dose-response relationship, with intermediate doses causing hepatic steatosis while higher doses appear protective. The preservation of reproductive organ integrity and absence of significant biochemical toxicity support the traditional use of soursop, though careful dose optimization and electrolyte monitoring are recommended for therapeutic applications

This study investigated the effects of methanol extract of Spondias mombin on body weight changes and liver histology in high-fat diet-fed rats. Obesity and metabolic disorders caused by high-fat diets are major global health concerns, prompting the search for safer plant-based therapeutic alternatives. In this study, thirty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: a normal control group, a high-fat diet (HFD) control group, and three treatment groups administered 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg of Spondias mombin methanol extract respectively. The experiment lasted for six weeks, after which body weight and liver histological changes were assessed. Results showed that rats fed with a high-fat diet without treatment recorded the highest body weight gain (48.6%), confirming the successful induction of obesity. However, rats treated with the plant extract showed a significant and dose-dependent reduction in weight gain, with percentage gains of 32.9%, 30.0%, and 20.6% for the low, medium, and high doses respectively. Histological analysis of liver tissues revealed severe hepatic steatosis in the untreated HFD group, while extract-treated groups showed progressive improvement in liver structure, with the high-dose group exhibiting near-normal hepatic architecture and minimal fat accumulation. The findings suggest that methanol extract of Spondias mombin possesses significant anti-obesity and hepatoprotective properties and may serve as a potential natural therapeutic agent for managing diet-induced metabolic disorders.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, energy drinks are defined as liquid products that typically contain caffeine, with or without additional ingredients. As energy drink consumption rates and popularity continue to rise, it's crucial to monitor their usage prevalence and investigate both the short-term and long-term effects of regular consumption to better understand their impact. The study aimed to investigate the effect of energy drinks (EDs) on liver function tests and hematological indices among young adult consumers in the University of Benin. 40, apparently young healthy adults between the ages of 18-25 years
studying at the University of Benin, were divided into 2 groups of 20 each. Group 1 which is the control group comprised of participants who were not regular consumers of energy drinks and would not consume energy drink (Predator) during
the study period. Group 2 comprised of adults with a history of energy drink consumption and would also consume energy drink (Predator) daily for 2 weeks. Blood samples were collected at baseline and after 2 weeks f consumption. Data were subjected to statistical analysis using Graph Pad Prism version 8.1 statistical package and relevant statistical values were obtained. An unpaired Student t-test was used and data were presented as mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM). Values of P<0.5 were considered statistically significant. The statistical values obtained were presented graphically in the form of bar charts. The consumption of
energy drinks among young adults did not cause significant alterations in the serum lipid profile for most parameters measured. Specifically, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and LDL levels in both experimental groups showed no significant differences when compared with the control group (P > 0.05). However, VLDL levels exhibited a significant decrease in both groups relative to the control (P < 0.05), suggesting that energy drink intake may have a slight lipid-lowering effect on VLDL concentration. The electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters — including heart rate, and blood pressure but Parameters like QRS complex becomes wider in Group 1 and increasingly wider in group 2 but normal in Control, ST interval elevation is observed in Group 1 and more elevated in Group 2 but flat in control group. No significant difference between the Axis of Group 1 and Control group but Group 2 axis progressively slants to the left

Bread is a staple food widely consumed in Nigeria, yet concerns persist about the use of potassium bromate as a flour improver, despite its ban due to potential health risks including cancer and kidney damage. This study aimed to compare the levels of potassium bromate in bread samples collected from two Local Government Areas (Oredo and Uhunmwonde) in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A total of twelve unsliced bread samples were randomly collected from various markets, roadside vendors, and bakeries across the two LGAs. The samples were analyzed using spectrophotometric methods to determine the presence and concentration of potassium bromate. The results were statistically compared to identify variations between the two areas and assess compliance with regulatory standards. This study highlights the potential public health implications associated with potassium bromate contamination in bread and emphasizes the need for regular monitoring and enforcement of food safety regulations.

Aspartame (ASP) is an artificial sweetener used in food products as an alternative to sugar. Concerns relating to the possible adverse health effects of its consumption have been raised due to aspartame’s metabolic components which are formed during its breakdown. Some research studies have associated aspartame consumption with health disorders such as cancers, neurochemical changes, hepatotoxicity etc, since the liver helps in the metabolism and detoxification of harmful substances and drugs, it acts as a filter to clean the blood. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of aspartame on liver function parameters in male Sprague Dawley rats. The rats were thirty-one (31) and were divided into five (5) groups: control, groups B-E. Group A (control) received 0.5ml of plain distilled water via gastric gavage. Group B, Group C, Group D, and Group E received (40, 80, 160, 320) mg/kg respectively for a duration of 75days. Results from this study showed a dose-dependent increase in serum Alkaline Transaminase (ALT) concentration between the control and the groups administered aspartame, but the liver ALT showed no significant difference. However, there was no significant difference between the means of the serum Aspartate Transaminase (AST) of the control group and groups administered aspartame. Also the result shows a dose dependent decrease in serum Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and a non significant difference in the means of liver ALP. Result from the present study showed significant difference in serum Gammaglutamyl Transferase (GGT) only when the control group was compared with the group administered 40mg/kg. However, the serum protein, heart protein and liver protein results between all groups in this study, showed no significant difference, but however a significant decrease was observed in the kidney proteins of the rats administered aspartame, especially in the group that received 160mg/kg. The level of testis protein increased in the groups that received 80mg/kg and 160mg/kg when compared to control. However, the amount of serum globulin in the aspartame-administered groups was not different from that of the control group. Aspartame may act as a chemical stressor by altering organ function homeostasis and increasing protein oxidative damage. This might play a significant role in promoting apoptotic cell death leading to damage of the organs and subsequently death.

Background/Aim: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition associated with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, often leading to academic, social, and occupational difficulties. While pharmacological treatments are widely used, challenges such as suboptimal adherence and limited access highlight the need for complementary psychosocial interventions. Motivational Interviewing (MI), a client-centred counselling approach, has shown potential in enhancing intrinsic motivation, improving treatment adherence, and supporting behavioural change. However, no scoping review has comprehensively synthesized evidence on the use of MI for adolescents and adults with ADHD. This review aimed to map and synthesise existing studies on MI in ADHD management, focusing on outcomes assessed, intervention formats, delivery modes, and providers. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collections, and AJOL for studies published in English Language. Eligible studies included adolescents (10–19 years) and adults (≥19 years) diagnosed with ADHD and receiving MI as a stand-alone or adjunct intervention. Protocols, commentaries, abstracts, and non-English studies were excluded. Screening and data extraction were conducted independently by two reviewers, with discrepancies resolved by consensus. Results were summarised using descriptive tables and narrative synthesis, adhering to the PRISMA-ScR framework. Results: From 390 records identified, 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. Five were randomized controlled trials and one was a follow-up study, primarily evaluating the Supporting Teens’ Autonomy Daily (STAND) programme, which integrates MI with behavioural skills training. All studies include adolescents with none on adults and was carried out only in United States of America. Outcomes commonly assessed included ADHD symptom severity, treatment adherence, organization, and academic/ functional skills. Clinic-based trials demonstrated that MI enhanced symptom management, organizational skills, and medication adherence. Community-based studies showed mixed results, with improvements mainly in medication engagement and conduct problems rather than core ADHD symptoms. Conclusion: This review highlights the emerging role of MI as a promising adjunctive intervention for adolescents with ADHD, particularly in enhancing medication adherence and functional skills. However, evidence remains limited, geographically narrow, and focused only on adolescents, leaving significant gaps regarding its application in adults. Future research should diversify populations and context management.