SCHOOL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES, COLLEGE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES

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.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline and neuropathological changes. Emerging evidence suggests that AD may also influence cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) composition and plasma rheology, which could play a role in disease progression. This study aimed investigatigating possible alterations in CSF cellular composition and plasma rheological properties such as plasma fibrinogen concentration and plasma viscosity in a rat model of AD. Twelve (12) healthy adult wistar rats weighing between 170-190g were used for this study. The rats were divided into two groups: Group 1 as control (n=6) received water, Group 2 (n=6) were induced with Alzheimer’s disease. Aluminum chloride salt (Alcl3) was used to induce Alzheimer’s disease, 100mg of Alcl3 salt was dissolved in 10ml of distilled water to achieve a concentration of 100mg/ml. 1ml of this solution was administered intraperitoneally daily for 28 days. Weight of rats were taken weekly, at the end of the experimental period, the rats were sacrificed, blood and CSF samples were collected. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was performed using microscopy cell counting method, plasma fibrinogen concentration was determined by the clot-weight technique of Ingram and plasma viscosity was determined using the simple viscometer technique. All statistical analysis were carried out using t-test with graph pad prism 10.2.2. Results were presented as standard error of mean (SEM). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the means of tests and control value and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results showed that Alzheimer's disease did not cause significant changes in CSF cellular components. Plasma viscosity remained unchanged between the Alzheimer-induced group and the control. However, plasma fibrinogen concentration was significantly increased in the Alzheimer-induced group, Increased fibrinogen in this study may indicate early-stage neuroinflammation but not enough to alter plasma viscosity. This may lead to hypercoagulability increasing the risk of blood clots, potentially reducing cerebral blood flow and raising the likelihood of stroke and vascular dementia. Additionally, impaired circulation from elevated fibrinogen may decrease oxygen and glucose delivery to the brain, contributing to neuronal stress and cognitive decline. This highlights a crucial link between systemic inflammation and neurodegeneration. In conclusion, this finding suggests that in this Alzheimer’s model systemic inflammation was present due to elevated plasma fibrinogen but the lack of CSF cellular changes and stable plasma viscosity indicate minimal neuroinflammation and an intact blood-brain barrier.

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are common among sedentary office workers. This study examined the correlation between physical activity levels and MSDs among nonacademic staff in the school of Basic Medical Sciences, UNIBEN.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving non-academic staff from the Departments of Physiotherapy, Radiography, Nursing, and Medical Laboratory Science at UNIBEN. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ-E) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-Short Form). Chi-square tests assessed the associations between physical activity
levels and the prevalence of MSDs.
Results: A cross-sectional study involving 25 non-academic staff members at UNIBEN examined the relationship between physical activity and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The majority of participants were female (16, 64%), with ages ranging from 30 to 59 years (mean: 43.36 ± 8.06). All participants reported experiencing musculoskeletal pain in various body regions, with neck pain being the most prevalent. Specifically, 18 respondents reported neck pain in the 12-month prevalence (72%), and 15 reported it in the 7-day prevalence (60%). While 52% (13) of participants had high physical activity levels, no significant relationship was found between physical activity levels and 12-month MSD prevalence. However, higher physical activity levels were associated with an increased 7-day prevalence of upper back pain (X²=6.851, p=0.033). Job
roles were not linked to 12-month MSD prevalence, but shoulder and hip pain showed significant associations with specific job roles over the past 7 days.
Conclusion: This study found a high MSD prevalence, with neck pain being the most common.
Physical activity was not related to long-term MSDs but correlated with upper back pain. Job roles were associated with shoulder and hip pain, highlighting the impact of ergonomic design.
Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), physical activity, sedentary behavior, university
of Benin.

Vernonia Amygdalina is a plant renowned for processing several bioactive compounds, some of which may hold promising medicinal properties. Delving into its impact on leukemia presents an opportunity to uncover valuable insights regarding its therapeutic applications in leukemia-related conditions. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of Vernonia Amygdalina leaves extract on RAS and WT1 leukemia gene in male albino Wistar rats. A total of twenty (20) male adult albino Wistar rats were selected into four (4)M groups. The groups were the control group,benzene:2-propanol group, 250mg/kg of Vernonia Amygdalina group, andbenzene:2-propanol with 250mg/kg Vernonia A mygdalina group. RNA extraction and semi-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to isolate RNA from rat bone marrow, and complementary DNA was synthesized and was subsequently amplified using polymerase chain reaction. Gel electrophoresis was used to determine the bands of the genes while peripheral blood film and full blood count were carried out by manual and automated methods respectively. The findings revealed that; for WBC (White Blood Cells),there was no significant difference (p=0.881) in group 3 (8.90±3.60) and group 4 (7.03±1.16) when compared to group 1 (8.27±1.91) and group 2 (7.97±0.70).Also, in N(Neutrophils),there was no significant difference (p=0.149) in group 3 (2.50±0.50) and group 4 (6.00±2.04) when compared to group 1(10.00±0.58) and group 2 (9.00±2.65).L (Lymphocytes)also showed no significant difference (p=0.183) in group 3 (91.00±1.00) and group 4 (88.00±2.71) when compared to group 1(82.00±1.53) and group 2 (85.67±2.60).The M (Monocytes)also showed no significant difference (p=0.523) in group 3 (5.00±0.00) and group 4 (5.00±0.91) when compared to group 1 (6.67±1.76) and group 2 (4.33±0.33). E (Eosinophils)showedno significant difference (p=0.987) in group 3 (1.50±0.50) and group 4 (1.33±0.33) when compared to group 1 (1.33±0.33) and group 2 (1.33±0.33). The RBC (Red Blood Cells)also showed no significant difference(p=0.531) in group 3 (6.32±0.49) and group 4 (6.53±0.21) when compared to group 1 (6.02±0.78) and group 2 (6.99±0.24).Hb (Hemoglobin)also showed no significant difference (p=0.226) in group 3 (12.95±0.25) and group 4 (13.30±0.38) when compared to group 1 (12.50±1.40) and group 2 (15.03±0.64).PLT (Platelets)showed no significant difference (p=0.649) in group 3 (1010.50±252.50) and group 4 (27536.50±26837.19) when compared to group 1 (1356.00±705.72) and 2 (1111.67±193.69), except for a notable outlier in group 4 (27536.50±26837.19). This study concludes that Vernonia Amygdalina did not have any significant effect on leukemia gene RAS and WT1 expression. These results suggest that Vernonia amygdalina could not influence the expression of the leukemia gene RAS and WT1.

Excessive alcohol intake among university students is a pressing public health concern, with potential implications for both health and academic performance. This study explores the knowledge and associated factors influencing excessive alcohol consumption among undergraduate students in Basic Medical Sciences at a tertiary institution in Benin, Edo State. Key areas of interest include socio-demographic factors, knowledge of alcohol’s effects, behavioral influences, and perceived impact on academic outcomes. A descriptive cross- sectional survey design was employed, utilizing a stratified sampling technique to select a representative sample of 290 students. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Analysis included descriptive statistics to summarize demographic characteristics and inferential statistics to identify factors associated with alcohol intake behaviors. The study found that 80.3% of students demonstrated good knowledge of the health effects of excessive alcohol intake, while 19.7% displayed poor knowledge. Major factors associated with excessive intake included peer pressure (mean score 3.1), ease of accessibility on campus (mean score 3.1), and stress (mean score 3.2). A majority (67.2%) reported family alcohol use, suggesting a potential influence on personal consumption behaviors. Perceptions of alcohol's impact on academic performance were mixed, with 51.4% viewing the impact as low and 48.6% as high. Nonetheless, specific items related to academic performance scored consistently high, indicating a recognized negative impact on focus, class attendance, and study outcomes. While students show substantial knowledge of alcohol's risks, factors like peer pressure and stress continue to drive excessive intake. Academic performance is perceived to be impacted by these behaviors, suggesting a need for interventions. Targeted educational programs and mental health resources are recommended to address the knowledge-behavior gap. Strategies should focus on providing stress management support, fostering healthier social norms, and promoting awareness of alcohol's academic consequences. Keywords: Knowledge, Associated factors, Influence Alcohol, intake, Undergraduate students

Breast cancer remains a major public health concern worldwide, with high mortality rates in
low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria due to late-stage diagnosis and limited
awareness. Mammography is a crucial screening tool for early detection, yet its utilization
remains low among Nigerian women. This study assesses the level of awareness of the
importance of mammography screening among female staff at the University of Benin, exploring the relationship between socio-demographic factors and screening uptake. A
descriptive design was employed, utilizing the Health Belief Model as a theoretical
framework. Data were collected from 306 female staff members through a structured
questionnaire adapted from the Champion’s Health Belief Model Scale. The findings reveal
significant gaps in awareness and misconceptions about mammography, with over 50% of
respondents unaware of its purpose. Socio-demographic factors, including age, education, and employment status, were found to influence awareness and utilization. Key barriers
identified include fear of diagnosis, cost, cultural beliefs, and lack of time. The study
highlights the urgent need for targeted educational campaigns and policy interventions to
improve breast cancer screening uptake. These findings contribute valuable insights for
public health strategies aimed at reducing breast cancer mortality among Nigerian women. KEY WORDS: Mammography, Screening, Awareness, Utilization.

There has been a notable increase in the use of herbal medicine over the past twenty years. Moreover, there is still a tremendous lap of proper research data in the field of traditional herbal medicine. Enantiachloranthais a plant belonging to the Annonacoae family. Its common name is Africa Yellow Wood. It contains some phytochemicals which confer anti-diabetic properties. The aim of this study is to evaluate the anti-diabetic and anti- inflammatory effects of Enantiachlorantha stem bark on STZ induced type 2 diabetes in adult wistar rats. Forty-nine (49)male Wister rats of 170-180g weight were used for this experiment. They were grouped into seven groups; Group 1 (Normal control), Group 2 (HFD+STZ), Group 3(HFD+STZ+ metformin 500mg/kg bwt), Group 4 (HFD +STZ+ 200mg/kg bwt crude hydro-ethanol extract), Group 5 (HFD + STZ+ 400mg/kg bwt crude hydroethanol extract), Group 6 (HFD + STZ+ 200mg/kg bwt ethyl-acetate fraction), Group 7 (HFD+STZ+ 400mg/kg bwt ethyl-acetate fraction). The results showed a marked decrease in blood glucose level in thr treated groups. Rats administered the extract crude and ethyl acetate fractions showed high expression of Nrf-2.In group 4, at 200 mg/kg body weight of thereextract crude and ethyl acetate fractions was increased activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme.This study concluded that Enantiachloranthahas positive anti-diabetic and anti- inflammatoryeffects.

Background: The number of persons suffering from low back pain will rise in the future, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The treatments available for low-back pain are not sufficient enough to cause an effective change in the long-term. Hence, there is a growing recognition of the need for a more comprehensive, patient-centered and behavioral-changing approach.
Objective: To determine the effectiveness of motivational interview on patients with low back pain.
Method: Included in this review were study population of adults aged 18 and above. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Non-Randomized Controlled Trials (non-RCTs) that explored the effectiveness of Motivational Interview on Low Back Pain. A detailed search of 7 databases was conducted. Data were selected and extracted using the Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet 2010 version following the eligibility criteria. To assess the potential risk of bias in each study, two assessors independently assessed the eligible studies using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for parallel RCTs. A review protocol was developed and registered in the PROSPERO database (IDCRD42023444806). A narrative synthesis was used to present findings.
Results: 2 RCTs and 1 non-RCT was eligible from the narrative synthesis. Motivational interview
interventions included counselling, motivational programs and group/individual discussion sessions. Motivational interview had a significant effect on pain among patients with low back pain relative to the control interventions. All the studies had a good methodological quality.
Conclusion: Motivational Interview shows a beneficial effect in reducing low back pain and in increasing functional status in patients with low-back pain in comparison with other interventions used in the systematic review. However, current evidence is insufficient on the effect of motivational interview on pain in patients with low back pain. More large scale RCTs are needed to evaluate motivational interview on pain in patients with low back pain.
Keywords: Low back pain, motivational interview, quality of life, functional status.

BACKGROUND: Healthcare is a vital component of any thriving society.Generally, young people (tertiary students inclusive) tend to demonstrate sub optimal helath seeking behaviour and this may be detrimental to their well being, resulting in increased health expenditure, loss of productive hours and generally poorer health
outcomes within this demographic.
OBJECTIVES: We sought to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice
of undergraduates in the university of Benin towards optimal and prompt seeking of health services.
METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted. Study was carried
out among tertiary institution undergraduate students within the University of Benin
from duration was from August 2023- September 2023. Sample size was calculated
using the Cochran’s formula for descriptive studies and a self-administered structured
questionnaire was used as the data collection tool. Data was analysedusing IBM SPSS
version 27.0 and the level of significance was set at p< 0.05. Data was presented using frequency tables, graphs as well as prose. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics and Research committee, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
RESULT: A total of 430 respondents participated in this study. The mean age was 21.45+2.89. Majority of respondents had good knowledge of healthcare services including where the heathcenter is located and the meanining of TISHIP. Attitude was positive for most respondents. Despite good knowledge and attitude, practice was poor showing significant association with monthly allowance/income. Lack of time to visit health center was a significant factor that influenced healthcare seeking practices.
CONCLUSION: Knowledge and attitude levels were high while practice was poor among respondents. Time to utilize health center and monthly allowance were significant factors influencing practice.

Background: The increasing population of older adults worldwide has heightened the demand for caregiving, especially in tertiary healthcare settings. Caregivers, both formal and informal,
face significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. These burdens can negatively impact their quality of life (QoL) and increase the risk of depression, especially when caring for
hospitalized older adults with complex needs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between care burden, QoL, and depression among caregivers in a tertiary health institution.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 primary caregivers of hospitalized older adults at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. Participants were
selected using convenience sampling and completed structured questionnaires, including the Caregiver Strain Index (CSI) to measure caregiver burden and the WHOQOL-HIV BREF to
assess quality of life across multiple domains. Descriptive statistics summarized sociodemographic variables, while Spearman’s rho analysis assessed the relationships between care burden, QoL, and depression. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Of the 80 participants, 73.8% were female, and 61.3% were married. The mean age was 37.56 ± 11.36 years. The mean Caregiver Strain Index (CSI) score was 10.35 ± 1.65 out of a
maximum obtainable score of 13, indicating a high level of strain. QoL scores varied across domains, with the psychological health domain scoring the lowest (14.48 ± 2.37) and the level of
independence domain scoring the highest (15.38 ± 2.97). Spearman’s rho analysis revealed a negative correlation (rho =-0.027, p = 0.814) between care burden and total QoL and a negative but non-significant correlation (rho =-0.196, p = 0.081) between care burden and psychological health.
Conclusion: Caregivers of hospitalized older adults experience moderate levels of care burden, which influence specific domains of their quality of life, such as social relationships and
psychological health. However, no statistically significant relationships were found between care burden, overall QoL, and depression in this study. These findings suggest that while caregiving
presents challenges, coping mechanisms like spirituality may mitigate its negative impacts.
Targeted interventions are needed to enhance caregiver support systems, focusing on mental health, stress management, and social connections to improve caregivers’ overall well-being and quality of life.
Keywords: Care burden, quality of life, depression, caregivers, hospitalized older adults.