DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY

Clays have been utilized for centuries across various cultures for their therapeutic and medicinal properties, ranging from wound healing to antibacterial applications, owing to their adsorptive and chemical properties that inhibit pathogens and support tissue regeneration. This study was aimed at investigating the physicochemical and antibacterial properties of Okpepe clay, Uzala black clay and the combined effect of both clays on clinical isolates against some clinical isolates. Clay samples were processed into suspensions, physicochemical analysis was carried out to determine the pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), heavy metal content and organic carbon. Uzala black clay had a higher pH (7.85), CEC (25.90 cmol/kg), and organic matter (2.80 %), while OKC was more acidic (pH 6.12) with higher EC and TDS. Antibacterial activity was tested against some clinical isolates such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus spp. using agar well diffusion at concentrations of 100 %, 75 %, 50 % and 25 %. Uzala black clay demonstrated superior antibacterial activity with larger zones of inhibition and lower MIC values (6.25 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus) compared to Okpekpe clay. Uzala black clay was bactericidal (MBC/MIC ≤ 2) against all isolates, while Okpekpe clay was often bacteriostatic. The clay combination (1:1) showed a remarkable synergistic effect, particularly at 75 % concentration, producing the largest zones of inhibition (42 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Uzala Black Clay is a potent, broad-spectrum bactericidal agent. The combination with Okpekpe Clay results in a significant synergistic enhancement of antibacterial efficacy. Its efficacy against clinical isolates, including those resistant to common antibiotics, highlights its potential as a source for developing new antimicrobial strategies against drug-resistant bacteria and its novel antimicrobial strategies.

Polyherbal teas, also known as herb-herb combinations, have been used in Chinese medicine practice, but scientific evidence of their therapeutic benefit is lacking. This study aims to examine the nutritional composition, characterization of some phytochemical constituents, and hepatoprotective activity of a poly-herbal tea formulation comprised of Moringa olifera, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and lemon in CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity. Proximate and mineral compositions were analyzed by the method described by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The characterization of some phytochemical constituents was analyzed using HPLC. CCL4 induced hepatotoxicity was used for hepatoprotective activity. The proximate composition of poly-herbal formulated tea indicated carbohydrate (64.66 %), protein (19.25 %), fat (6.35 %), moisture content (6.12 %), ash content (0.24 %) and fibre (3.36%). Mineral compositions present include potassium (1356.0 mg/kg), calcium (821.3 mg/kg), magnesium (380.8 mg/kg), phosphorus (331.4 mg/kg), and iron (221.4 mg/kg).nt). Luteolin, Arbutin, Kaempferol, Apigenin and Quercetin were the most abundant phenolic compound, Quinine was the most abundant alkaloid, Diosgenin and Ergocalciferol were the most abundant steroid, Epigattotechin and Catechin were the most abundant tannins in polyherbal formulated tea. The body weight of animals given 10 mg/kg of the formulated tea extract, 5 mg/kg of the tea extract + CCL4, 10 mg/kg of tea extract + CCL4 and CCL4 without treatment significantly reduced compare to control (*p<0.05) in CCL4-induced nephrotoxicity. There was liver weight reduction in the animals that were given distilled water, 5 mg/kg of the formulated extract, 10mg/kg of the formulated extract, 5 mg/kg of the extract + CCL4, 10 mg/kg of extract + CCL4 when compared with CCL4 without treatment (***p<0.001; *p<0.05). ALP, AST and ALT levels in the animals were reduced by 5 mg/kg of the formulated tea extract, 10 mg/kg of the formulated extract, 5 mg/kg of the extract + CCL4, 10 mg/kg of extract + CCL4 when compared with CCL4 without treatment (**p<0.01; *p<0.05). Superoxide dismutase and catalase values were increased, and the molondialdehyde level was reduced by the formulated tea extract when compared with CCL4 without treatment (****p<0.0001; ***p<0.001; **p<0.01; *p<0.05). Conclusively polyherbal tea formulation (Moringa olifera, garlic, ginger, turmeric and lemon) possesses hepatoprotective activity

This study evaluates the microbial contamination in raw meat across four various open
market in benin city. Inadequate meat handling and contamination lead to spoilage, waste and reduced shelf life, which negatively affect both producers and vendors. Meat vendors often do not have access to refrigeration, and meat is displayed in unsanitary conditions, making it susceptible to microbial growth. The lack of cold chain infrastructure, where meat products are transported and stored at proper temperatures, exacerbates the situation. In Addition, foodborne illness outbreaks can result in costly hospitalizations, legal liabilities, and loss of consumer trust in the meat supply chain (Wagener et al., 2020). In Benin City, improving microbial detection and control measures would not only enhance public health but also boost the economic sustainability of the local meat industry. As a result, meat often remains at temperatures favorable to bacterial growth for extended periods, leading to foodborne disease outbreaks (Bokhari et al., 2021). In Benin City, as in many Nigerian cities, there is a notable lack of proper monitoring and regulation of food safety standards, making it difficult to address these issues effectively. The slaughtering process often takes place in poorly regulated slaughterhouses where hygiene and sanitation practices are inadequate. According to a study by Akinmoladun et al., (2020), many slaughterhouses in Edo State lack proper waste disposal systems, hygienic facilities, and pest control measures, which create an environment conducive to microbial growth. Slaughtered meat is often exposed to contamination from unclean surfaces, utensils, and equipment. Moreover, there is often a lack of adequate training in food safety practices for slaughterhouse workers, resulting in improper handling and processing of meat (Ajayi et al., 2020). The contamination of meat is not limited to slaughterhouses. In Benin City’s open-air markets, where meat is sold directly to consumers, poor handling practices and improper storage conditions further contribute to microbial contamination. Meat vendors often do not have access to refrigeration, and meat is displayed in unsanitary conditions, making it susceptible to microbial growth. The lack of cold chain infrastructure, where meat products are transported and stored at proper temperatures, exacerbates the situation. As a result, meat often remains at temperatures favorable to bacterial growth for extended periods, leading to foodborne disease outbreaks (Bokhari et al., 2021). In Benin City, as in many Nigerian cities, there is a notable lack of proper monitoring and regulation of food safety standards, making it
difficult to address these issues effectively.

Polyherbal formulations are widely utilized across the globe and have gained increasing recognition due to their natural origin and minimal side effects. These combinations enhance therapeutic potency while reducing the required concentrations of individual herbal components. This research investigates the hematological effects of a polyherbal aqueous extract in phenyl hydrazine induced anemic Wistar rats. The plant materials were collected, processed, and formulated into the polyherbal aqueous extract. Thirty-six rats were randomly assigned into six groups: positive control, negative control, normal control, and three treatment groups receiving different doses of the extract. Variations in body and organ weights were assessed, and blood samples were analyzed for biochemical parameters. The results revealed significant differences in white blood cells, lymphocytes, mid-sized cells, granulocytes, platelets, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, plateletcrit, and platelet large cell ratio compared to the control groups. These findings support the ethnomedicinal use of the selected plants as anti-anemic agents and highlight their potential for further preclinical and clinical evaluation. Overall, the study suggests that the polyherbal aqueous extract may serve as a promising alternative therapy for anaemia

The importance of home security is increasing, and systems are constantly being improved. Sophisticated firearms, security guards, alarms, and other security measures have all been improved. Software and electronic hardware have also been invented. One of the most crucial safety measures that are necessary for all social groupings is home security.
The system architecture entails the integration of sound and motion detectors with a central processing unit, enabling real-time monitoring and response to potential security breaches. Leveraging advanced sensor technologies, the system can accurately identify unauthorized intrusions and trigger appropriate alarm responses. Key components of the system include high-sensitivity sound sensors capable of detecting anomalies such as breaking glass or forced entry, coupled with motion detectors that utilize passive infrared technology to detect movement within designated areas. These sensors are interconnected with a central control unit programmed to analyze sensor inputs and initiate alarm protocols when suspicious activity is detected. The system incorporates user-friendly interfaces for configuration and monitoring, allowing users to customize alarm settings and receive real-time alerts via mobile devices or computer interfaces. Additionally, the system's scalability and flexibility enable integration with existing security infrastructure, making it suitable for a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

Medicinal plants are presently in demand, and their acceptance is increasing progressively; hence, plants with ethnomedicinal values are currently screened for their therapeutic potential and safety profile. This study evaluated the effects of a polyherbal-formulated tea (Ageratum conyzoides, Anthocleista djalonensis, Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum, and Thespesia garckeana) on atherogenic diet-induced hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis in male albino Wistar rats. Twenty-five rats were divided into five groups of five: group 1 as normal control, group 2 as cholesterol control, groups 3 and 4 received polyherbal tea at 20 and 40 mg/kg, respectively, and group 5 was treated with atorvastatin (5 mg/kg). Hyperlipidaemia was induced in groups 2 to 5 by administering 10 mg/kg of 1% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid. Treatments and a cholesterol diet were given orally for 28 days. The results indicated that polyherbal tea at both doses of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg prevented weight gain and reduced organ-to-body weight ratios when compared to the cholesterol control (P < 0.05). Polyherbal tea treatment decreased total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels, while elevating high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels (P < 0.05). Polyherbal tea had a reduction in aortic wall thickness and ALT and AST levels compared to the cholesterol control (p<0.05). Histological examination revealed normal aortic and hepatic features in treated groups compared with the cholesterol control. In conclusion, the polyherbal-formulated tea demonstrated antihyperlipidemic, anti-atherosclerotic, and hepatoprotective properties and may reduce cardiovascular risk

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, resveratrol, flavonoids, and phytoestrogens with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hormone-modulating potentials. Considering the rising prevalence of female and the limitations of conventional therapies, this study explored Tiger nut as a possible natural alternative to enhance reproductive health. This investigation was aimed at evaluating the pregnancy outcome study of juice formulated from cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) on pregnant albino rats. Freshly prepared Tiger nut juice was administered orally to gravid albino Wistar rats at doses of 2 ml/kg and 5 ml/kg across the three trimesters of pregnancy. Key parameters assessed included maternal weight gain, serum progesterone levels, implantation sites, uterine horn development, pregnancy outcomes, fetal biometric indices, and blood glucose levels. The results showed significant improvements in maternal weight, progesterone concentration, implantation success, litter size, and fetal development in the grape-treated groups compared to controls. Additionally, low and higher doses of the Tiger nut juice maintained normoglycemia, within normal ranges. These findings demonstrate that Tiger nut juice positively influences maternal physiology, enhances uterine receptivity, and improves pregnancy outcomes, highlighting its potential role as a nutraceutical for supporting female fertility.

Meat is a nutritive-rich food that contributes vital protein, vitamins and minerals to higher bioavailability than other food sources thereby making it a suitable medium for the growth of microorganisms which serve as a great source of meat contamination and food borne disease. Among the various microorganism that are implicated with meat contamination, staphylococcus aureus is one of the most prevalent as it a natural floral in skin and nasal cavity of humans and animal. Due to the unhygienic practices from meat handlers, from the abattoirs to the market places and also vehicles which are in most cases unclean and unfit
to convey meat and meat products. This study was conducted to access staphylococcus aureus from raw beef sold in open markets in Benin city, Edo state, Nigeria. A total amounts of 45 samples were collected from the meat, tables and knives. Where the meat samples were collected into a sterile container and the table top and knife sample were collected using a sterile swabs. From 5 different markets in benin city, 26 S. aureus isolates were obtained and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility test using the Kirby-bauer disc diffusion method . The result of the prevalence staphylococcus aureus from the meat,table ans knife sample
were [2/15 (13.3%)], [12/15 (80%)] and [12/15 (80%)] respectively. Having Gentamycin (n=5, 100%) the most effective antimicrobial where all isolates were susceptible to it. Followed by Erythromycin and Nitrofurantoin (n=5, 60%). Although, these isolates also shows resistance to Cefepime (100%) followed by penicillin (80%). Unhygienic practices of meat handlers such as dirty hands, unfit display tables and cutting tools and also improper handling of meat products triggers a very high level of S. aureus in open markets which may eventually affects the health of the consumers. Hygiene sanitary practice is recommended in meat market to prevent the consumers from the risk of acquiring these diseases.

This research focuses on the Multivariate Chemometric Classification of Ocimum gratissimum essential oils obtained from grasslands within three urban local government areas (LGAs) of Benin City Oredo, Egor, and Ovia north-east. The study aimed to determine the chemical variability and structural functional groups of O. gratissimum grown in different grassland environments and to understand how local environmental conditions influence the chemical profiles of the plant’s essential oils. The work involved plant collection, sample preparation, extraction of essential oils, analytical identification, and data interpretation. Fresh leaves of O. gratissimum were collected from uncontaminated bushy sites in the three LGAs, air dried for five days, oven-dried at 45°C for 30 minutes, blended, and stored in airtight brown bottles. Soxhlet extraction using analytical-grade n-hexane served to obtain the essential oils, which were then concentrated using a rotary evaporator. The extracts were analyzed using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). GCMS provided molecular identification and quantification of chemical compounds, while FTIR determined the functional groups present in the essential oils. Chemometric methods were employed to classify similarities and differences in the oils based on their chemical fingerprints across the study areas. A total of over forty compounds were detected across the three samples, with the most dominant being Decane (25.04%), Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (17.17%), and Thymol (12.65%), along with other bioactive components such as Caryophyllene, Squalene, Phytol, and several aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons. These compounds are known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, indicating that O. gratissimum from all study sites retains medicinal relevance. Variations in compound concentrations were observed between locations, suggesting environmental or soilbased
influences on secondary metabolite biosynthesis. The FTIR results revealed prominent absorption peaks around 3350 cm⁻¹ (O–H), 2950 cm⁻¹ (C–H), and 1740 cm⁻¹ (C=O), indicating the presence of alcohols, alkanes, and esters common to essential oils
of Ocimum species. The results demonstrated that although the three O. gratissimum populations share core chemical identities, their quantitative differences are significant enough to allow chemometric differentiation

Point of Sale (POS) terminals have become a common feature of commercial transactions in urban environments such as Benin city, Edo State, Nigeria. This study was aimed at investigating the microbial contamination, bacterial diversity and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of microorganisms isolated from Point of Sale (POS) machines keypads within Medical Junction to New Benin Market axis of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Twenty POS machines were randomly sampled using sterile swab sticks and the samples were analyzed using standard microbiological procedures and biochemical tests for bacterial Identification. The total heterotrophic counts ranged from 3.3 x 10³ to 9.9 x 10³. Antibiotics susceptibility pattern of the bacteria isolated was performed using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method Four main bacterial genera were isolated and identified: Escherichia coli (32.5 %), Neisseria spp. (27.5 %), Staphylococcus spp. (20 %), and Streptococcus spp. (20 %). E. coli showed the
highest prevalence with ( 32.5 % ) Antibiotic susceptibility testing, performed using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method, revealed high resistance to β-lactam antibiotics such as ampicillin, augmentin, and ampiclox, while the isolates exhibited greater sensitivity to fluoroquinolones including ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and levofloxacin. The findings confirm that POS terminals in Benin City serve as potential reservoirs for pathogenic and ugresistant bacteria, posing significant public health risks, particularly in densely populated commercial settings. Regular disinfection of POS devices, improved hand hygiene among operators and customers, and public awareness campaigns on microbial contamination are recommended to mitigate the spread of infectious agents and antimicrobial resistance.