B.I.G ADEJUMO

When Women gets pregnant, it induces profound metabolic changes, particularly in lipid metabolism, to support maternal adaptation and fetal growth. While these alterations are physiological, excessive deviations may predispose women to cardiovascular complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. The Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), derived from triglyceride and HDL-C levels, has emerged as a useful biomarker for evaluating cardiovascular risk during pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) and lipid profile variations among pregnant women across the three trimesters in Benin City, Nigeria, in order to assess trimester-specific cardiovascular risk patterns. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed involving pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Benin City, blood samples were collected and analyzed for total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) using standardized enzymatic colorimetric methods. The AIP was calculated as log(TG/HDL-C). Data were analyzed using ANOVA, correlation, and regression models, with significance set at p < 0.05. The study population was predominantly aged 20–34 years (79%), with most in the third trimester (47%). Pregnant women showed significantly higher BMI and LDL-C compared to non-pregnant controls (p < 0.001). Triglycerides increased progressively from the first trimester (103.52 ± 8.74 mg/dL) to the third (140.04 ± 5.22 mg/dL, p = 0.003). LDL-C peaked in the third trimester (151.36 ± 5.56 mg/dL, p = 0.01), while HDL-C remained relatively stable. The mean AIP rose significantly with gestational age (p = 0.022), with third-trimester values higher than first-trimester values (p = 0.017). AIP correlated strongly and positively with triglycerides across all trimesters (r = 0.76–0.91, p < 0.001), and negatively with HDL-C in late pregnancy (r = – 0.641, p < 0.001). Pregnancy in Benin City is characterized by progressive increases in triglycerides, LDL-C, and AIP, particularly in the third trimester. These findings highlight the need to include lipid and AIP monitoring in antenatal care for early identification of women at risk of adverse outcome.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) testing has become an essential tool in resolving disputes of biological relationships, particularly maternity and paternity cases, with significant social, legal, and emotional implications. In Nigeria, cultural traditions, limited awareness, and socioeconomic challenges influence the acceptance and accessibility of DNA technology. This study therefore aimed to assess the perception and awareness of DNA testing for resolving maternal and paternal disputes among residents of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was employed. A total of one hundred and fifty-one (151) adult residents of Benin City were recruited using a random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured 22- item questionnaire covering demographics, awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of DNA testing. Responses were analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, using Chi-square tests with significance set at p < 0.05. The findings revealed that 86.7% of respondents had heard of DNA testing being used to resolve maternity and paternity disputes, but only 34.7% reported personal or second-hand involvement. While 83.3% correctly identified DNA testing as a method to confirm biological relationships, only 42.0% were aware of existing facilities in Benin City. Practical exposure was limited, as just 28.0% had visited or knew someone who had visited a DNA testing facility. Nonetheless, perceptions were largely positive, with 71.3% affirming that DNA testing could accurately resolve disputes, and 79.4% expressing willingness to learn more about its applications. Knowledge gaps persisted, as 39.3% believed external factors could affect accuracy, with laboratory error most frequently mentioned. In conclusion, this study revealed that awareness and positive perceptions of DNA testing are high among Benin City residents, but actual utilization and technical understanding remain limited. The results underscore the need for public education, expanded access to affordable DNA
facilities, and integration of counseling and ethical safeguards to enhance acceptance and prevent misuse. These findings highlight DNA testing’s potential as a reliable, culturally sensitive tool for resolving family disputes in Nigeria.

The discovery of serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) and its extensiveuseover the past two decades has dramatically influenced the diagnosis and monitoringof prostate cancer before and after treatment, respectively (Dada et al, 2018). Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a 28 400Da glycoprotein (Milford et al, 2001)comprising 237 amino acid residues (Lundwall, et al 1991) with five inter-chaindisulphide bonds and approximately 8% carbohydrate in the formof a N-linkedoligosaccharide side chain. In seminal plasma, PSA can be shown toexist infive isoforms, two biologically active and differing in the degreeofglycosylation, and three biologically inactive or `nicked’ forms (Zhanget al, 1999).

The major components of petroleum are hydrocarbons which are toxic and have been implicated in a number of human diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the genotoxicity, oxidative stress and haemato – inflammatory markers among petroleum products exposed workers at NNPC Limited facilities at Abuja and environs. A total of two hundred and fifty adult males participated in this study. this research was a cross sectional study; a multivariable questionnaire was designed to provide answers to some questions. The questionnaire was divided into different sections comprises of social demographic variables such as age, sex, marital status, alcohol consumption, smoking etc. Others were awareness of hazards caused by occupational exposure to petroleum products and awareness of various ways of protection against the petroleum products with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Ethical approvals were obtained from Ministry of Environment, Abuja and Ethic committee of NNPC Limited. Under aseptic conditions, ten millimeter (10mls) of venous blood sample was obtained from each participating individuals at the end of the work shift on the day of exposure. The samples were processed according to each parameter requirement. Parameters such
benzene and its derivatives (phenol, styrene, butanoic acid, benzene, benzene chloro, o – xylene, toluene, benze 1, 3, dimethyl, p – xylene, naphthalene and ethylbenzene), oxidative stress markers (CRP, total oxidative capacity, glutathione reductase), inflammatory and immunological markers (IL1, IL3, IL4, IL6, IL9, IL10, IFN gamma, Human LT beta, IgG and IgM), haematological parameters and deoxyribonucleic acid damage marker (8 hydroxyl 2 deoxylguanosine) were analysed using standard methods according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Results showed significantly higher phenol in tanker drivers compared with petrol
attendants, auto mechanics and NNPC staff.