SCHOOL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

Background: stroke remains a major health concern worldwide, often resulting in long term disability that demands continuous care and support. In Nigeria, family members usually serve as the primary caregivers of individual that have suffered from stroke and their family functioning may strongly affect their beliefs, attitude and adherence to rehabilitation. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the connection between family functioning and health beliefs of stroke survivors receiving treatment in the University of Benin Teaching hospital , Benin City.
Methods: A descriptive cross sectional design was carried used and 86 stroke survivors’ was selected using convenience sampling. Data was gathered using a demographic form, an adapted short form family assessment device (FAD-GFS), and the health belief model stroke based questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used for data summarization. Inferential statistics of Pearson’s Chi Square was used to assess the connection between family functioning and health beliefs in patients with stroke.
Results: A large population of the respondent (87.2%) had a good family functioning and 68% demonstrated strong health beliefs to stroke recovery. Family functioning was shown to have a significant connection with health beliefs (x 2=11.187 a , p=0.004). marital status, religion, ethnicity and living arrangement significantly influenced family functioning while health beliefs was significantly influence by religion and stroke duration with p=<0.05.
Conclusion: Family functioning influence the health beliefs of stroke survivors in Benin City. Also families and stroke survivors who experienced supportive family system demonstrated a stronger and positive health belief about their stroke recovery. Therefore, incorporating family centered interventions and education into stroke rehabilitation programs is vital for improving the health outcomes of stroke survivors.

The MNS blood group system is often overshadowed by the ABO and Rh systems; it remains clinically relevant due to its potential role in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) and complications related to transfusion therapy. Serological testing was carried out using standard hemagglutination techniques following established protocols. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of M and N antigens, examine their distribution across different trimesters, and assess any associations with parity, gravidity, and ethnic backgrounds. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed. A total of 110 venous blood samples were collected aseptically into plain tubes during routine antenatal visits. The age range of participants was 20 to 40 years, and the gestational age at the time of sampling ranged from 2 to 8 months, covering the first, second, and third trimesters of pregnant women attending antenatal care at the Central Hospital, Benin City, Edo State. This study provided important regional data that reinforces the clinical significance of incorporating MNS blood group antigen screening into routine antenatal care. Early identification of potential alloimmunization can help prevent serious complications such as fetal anemia and HDFN, ultimately improving both maternal and neonatal outcomes. Out of the 110 samples tested, 62 (56.4%) were positive for M antigens and 73 (66.4%) were positive for N antigens. This study revealed a higher prevalence of the N antigen compared to the M antigen among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Central Hospital, Benin City. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive blood group antigen screening, including the MNS system, during pregnancy. Early detection of maternal alloantibodies against MNS antigens can help guide appropriate prenatal care, prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN), and improve transfusion safety and perinatal outcomes.

Parasitic contamination of drinking water remains a major public health challenge in
developing regions, where wells serve as primary water sources. These parasites can cause debilitating infections, reduce quality of life, and contribute to high morbidity rates. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of Micro organisms in well water sources across Benin City, Edo state. A total of 195 wells were sampled and examined using standard parasitological techniques and were analyzed microscopically for the presence of parasites. The data were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 25 and chisquare tests were applied to assess associations between parasite occurrence and location, with statistical significance set al p < 0.05.. Results revealed widespread contamination, with 88.2% of wells harboring at least one parasite. Ascaris was the most prevalent (26.7%), followed by Strongyloides (16.4%) and Entamoeba (12.8%). Giardia lamblia and Hookworm each accounted for 9.2%, while Schistosoma haematobium and Fasciola were least prevalent at 7.2% each. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in parasite distribution across LGAs (p >0.05) except for Schistosoma haematobium, which was significantly associated with a location (p = 0.019). In conclusion, the findings highlight a high burden of parasitic contamination in well waters of Benin City, emphasizing the urgent need for improved water quality management and public health interventions.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, or elevated blood glucose levels, resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. This study focused on the severe metabolic imbalance caused by Streptozotocin (STZ) induction in male Wistar rats . Diabetes mellitus was induced in male Wistar rats by a combination of a 2-week high-carbohydrates diet, followed by double doses (60 and 40 mg/kg respectively) of intraperitoneal injection of STZ. Diabetic rats were then treated for two weeks with either distilled water (control), Glibenclamide (5 mg/kg, positive control), or picralima nitida extract at two doses (200 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg). The findings revealed that all groups treated with Picralima nitida showed a decrease in α-amylase levels compared to the diabetic group that received no treatment. However, this reduction was not sufficient to bring the enzyme activity back to the levels observed in non-diabetic (control) rats. Among the doses tested, the low dose produced the most stable regulatory effect, showing results that were comparable, though slightly less effective, than glibenclamide

This study investigated the qualitative and quantitative phytochemical composition of
CELLIFEIQ, a commercially available polyherbal supplement. The work addressed the lack of scientific data on the product’s chemical profile by using standard phytochemical screening and spectrophotometric methods to identify and quantify major secondary metabolites. The qualitative results showed the presence of steroids, coumarins, flavonoids, tannins, and cardiac glycosides, while saponins were not detected. Quantitative analysis further revealed that steroids were the most abundant constituent (23.93 ± 0.05 mg/g), followed by coumarins (15.53 ± 0.16 mg/g), flavonoids (13.29 ± 0.18 mg/g), tannins (12.93 ± 0.09 mg/g), and cardiac glycosides (12.32 ± 0.18 mg/g). These findings show a phytochemical pattern consistent with extracts obtained using organic solvents, which tend to favor lipophilic compounds. The study fills an important knowledge gap by providing evidence-based information about a product commonly promoted for health and wellness but rarely subjected to scientific scrutiny. The identified constituents suggest that CELLIFEIQ contains compounds with known antioxidant and physiological effects, although their actual biological impact requires further investigation. The results form a foundation for future pharmacological and toxicological studies, highlight the need for standardized quality control in herbal supplement production, and support regulatory efforts to ensure product safety and transparency

Cerebral dysfunction, a hallmark of various neurocognitive disorders, may result from congenital anomalies, progressive neurodegeneration, or exposure to neurotoxic agents. Lead (Pb), a highly toxic heavy metal, readily crosses the blood–brain barrier and accumulates in the cerebrum, where it disrupts calcium homeostasis and promotes oxidative stress. This cascade contributes to neuronal injury and cognitive decline. Emerging evidence suggests that dietary antioxidants can counteract lead-induced oxidative damage and help preserve cerebral integrity. This study evaluated the neuroprotective effects of aqueous Tetrapleura tetraptera (TT) fruit extract on lead acetate induced cerebral toxicity. Sixty-four adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into eight treatment groups (n=8) and treated for 28 days as follows: Group A (control – 1 mL distilled water), Group B (Pb only, 100 mg/kg [bw]), Group C (TT - 500 mg/kg [bw] + Pb - 100mg/kg [bw]), Group D (TT - 1000 mg/kg [bw] + Pb – 100 mg/kg [bw]), Group E (Vitamin E – 200 mg/kg [bw] + Pb - 100mg/kg [bw]), Group F (TT only - 500 mg/kg [bw]), Group G (TT only - 1000 mg/kg [bw]), and Group H (Vitamin E only – 200 mg/kg [bw]). High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was carried out to identify the phytochemicals contained in the extract. Molecular docking results showed the polyphenols, catechol and phloroglucinol, displayed a higher binding affinity with Caspase 3, IL-6 and comparable binding affinity with NRF2 against standard drugs like Levodopa and Clonazepam. Pre-sacrifice, neurobehavioral assessments were conducted to evaluate cerebral dysfunction. Lead only exposed rats showed significant decrease in rearing frequency, and increase in grooming, thigmotaxis, sniffing, immobility time respectively. Post-sacrifice, cerebral tissues were analysed for lead concentration, antioxidant enzymes activity, lipid peroxidation and histopathological changes. Lead only exposed rats showed significant impaired (p<0.05) weight gain and antioxidant enzymes function, elevated lipid peroxidation, and increased cerebral lead levels. Histological analysis revealed vacuolation of granular cells and presence of pyknotic nuclei in the prefrontal cortex. However, pretreatment with Tetrapleura tetraptera significantly (p<0.05) mitigated these effects in lead-exposed rats suggesting strong neuroprotective properties. The study identifies Tetrapleura tetraptera potential as a natural, neuroprotective and therapeutic agent against lead-induced cerebral dysfunction. Further studies exploring the application of Tetrapleura tetraptera in other models of cerebral dysfunction are recommended.

Gastrointestinal parasites pose significant threats to the health and productivity of goat populations, particularly in rural settings. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and impact of gastrointestinal parasites in goats at selected abattoirs in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A total of 200 goat fecal samples were obtained from goats across two selected abattoirs located in New Benin and Aduwawa markets within Benin City. These comprised 100 samples each from New Benin and Aduwawa abattoirs, with 20 fecal samples obtained from Red Sokoto goats and 80 fecal samples from West African Long-legged goats in each abattoir. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all involved parties before the commencement of sample collection. The samples were examined microscopically using direct wet mount and formalin-ethyl acetate concentration techniques to detect gastrointestinal parasite. Key findings revealed a high overall prevalence of 82.5%, with Eimeria spp. (49.5%), Haemonchus spp. (48.5%), and Strongyloides papillosus (48.0%) being the most frequently identified parasites. Significant breed-related differences were observed, with Red Sokoto goats exhibiting a higher prevalence of Strongyloides papillosus at 85.0% compared to 38.8% in West African Long-Legged goats. Statistical analyses highlighted significant associations between market environment and the prevalence of Haemonchus spp, as well as breed differences in susceptibility to various parasites. The prevalence rates identified in this study emphasize the urgent need for effective management and control strategies to combat gastrointestinal parasitism in goat populations within the region. The findings emphasize the necessity for integrated animal health initiatives aimed at improving livestock management practices and enhancing overall animal productivity, consequently improving the livelihoods of local farmers in Benin City.

Occupational exposure to environmental pollutants poses significant health risks, particularly for street cleaners who are routinely exposed to dust, vehicle emissions, and other contaminants. This aim of this study was to evaluate the haematological and
haemorrheological changes among street cleaners in selected environs of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A total of 100 participants, comprising 50 street cleaners and 50 age- and gender-matched controls, were recruited using a simple random sampling technique. Sociodemographic and occupational data were obtained via structured questionnaires. Venous blood samples were collected under aseptic conditions for analysis of complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and plasma fibrinogen concentration using automation, Westergren method and Clauss method respectively. Results indicated that street
cleaners in Benin City were slightly older (35.84 ± 8.09 years) than controls (33.84 ± 4.21 years), with a predominance of males in both groups (88.0% vs. 80.0%). Most street cleaners had 1–5 years of work experience and worked 4–8 hours per day, 3–5 days per week.

This study aimed at evaluating and comparing the total phenolic content (TPC) of manually extracted and commercially made sesame seed oil, alongside manually extracted cottonseed oil. Phenolic compounds are recognized for their antioxidant properties, which enhance the nutritional quality, oxidative stability and shelf life of edible oils. Oil samples were analyzed using the Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric method and statistical evaluation was performed with SPSS to determine mean values and standard errors. Results revealed that manually extracted cottonseed oil contained a greater TPC than sesame seed oil extracted using the same methods, while commercially made sesame seed oil expressed the lowest phenolic levels. These findings indicate that traditional extraction methods better preserve bioactive compounds compared to commercial refining, which tends to reduce antioxidant content. The elevated phenolic content in manually extracted oils suggests improved oxidative stability and potential health benefits, positioning them as favorable options for health-conscious consumers. Overall, this research underscores the importance of minimally processed oils, supports the use of TPC as a quality indicator and highlights the need for improved commercial processing techniques in order to retain beneficial phytochemicals

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia due to impaired insulin secretion or action. Inhibiting carbohydrate- digesting enzymes such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase is a recognized strategy to reduce postprandial glucose spikes. Lonchocarpus cyanescens is a medicinal plant widely used in West African ethnotherapy with reported antidiabetic activity. This study aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effects of the water fraction of L. cyanescens on α-amylase and α- glucosidase and compare its efficacy with acarbose. The water fraction of L. cyanescens leaves was prepared and tested at concentrations of 0.1–0.5 mg/mL using standard in vitro enzyme inhibition assays, and the results were statistically analysed using one-way ANOVA followed by LSD post hoc tests to compare treatment groups and assess significance relative to acarbose. The water fraction demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of both enzymes, with α-amylase inhibition ranging from 76.79% to 89.26% and α- glucosidase inhibition from 36.60% to 61.22% (p < 0.01).