DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY

The antimicrobial activity, proximate composition and phytonutrient contents of the ethanolic extracts of the young and mature leaves of Greenwayodendron suaveolens were analyzed using standard microbiological methods. The moisture contents of the young and mature leaves were 9.9% and 11.882% respectively. The ash contents of the young and mature leaves were 6.142% and 6.418% respectively. The crude fiber content of the young and mature leaves was 5.550% and 5.080% respectively. The crude fat content of the young and mature leaves was 14.750% and 18.870% respectively. The crude protein content of the young and mature leaves was 1.338% and 1.025% respectively. The carbohydrate content of the young and mature leaves was 72.220% and 68.607% respectively. The phytonutrient analysis carried out indicated that percentage alkaloid was 24.43 and 11.45 in the young and mature leaf extracts respectively. Phenolic contents were 64.00 µg/mL and 51.00 µg/mL in the young and mature leaf extracts respectively. Flavonoid content was 39.50 µg/mL and 13.75 µg/mL in the young and mature leaf extracts at respectively. Saponin content at 1,147 µg/mL and 1,205 µg/mL in the young and mature leaf extracts respectively. While tannin content was 65.00 mg/mL and 47.25 mg/mL in the young and mature leaf extracts at respectively. The ethanolic leaf extracts of Greenwayodendron suaveolens inhibited the growth of all the test organisms at the concentration of 25 mg/mL

The use of medicinal plants such as Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaf) is widespread, but the therapeutic capability of its essential oil is highly dependent on its chemical profile, or chemotype. Global urbanization introduces specific microenvironmental stresses (e.g., pollution, heat, and soil alteration) that can disrupt plant metabolism, leading to inconsistent oil composition and quality. This study investigated the effect of built-up microenvironments on the chemotype of O. gratissimum essential oil harvested from three distinct Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Edo State, Nigeria: Oredo, Egor, and Ovia North-East. Fresh ocimum. gratissimum leaves were collected from built-up microenvironments in the three selected LGAs. Essential oils were extracted using the Soxhlet method with 99% HPLC-grade hexane, and their chemical compositions were determined using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). GC–MS analysis showed that the essential oil from all three LGAs belonged to a thymol-rich chemotype. However, the concentration of the key active compound, thymol, varied across locations: Egor had the highest thymol content (7.75%), while Oredo was richest in its precursor, o-cymene (12.89%). Ovia North-East exhibited the lowest thymol concentration (5.12%). The presence of high percentages of non-essential oil components (decane and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) was noted as a potential artifact of the extraction process. FTIR analysis further revealed the consistent presence of nitrogen-containing amine functional groups across all samples, suggesting a stress-induced shift in secondary metabolism. The built-up microenvironment significantly influences the chemical profile of O. gratissimum essential oil. The variation in the o-cymene/thymol ratio and the presence of nitrogenous compounds suggest that local environmental stressors (such as pollution or soil conditions) may disrupt the final stages of the monoterpene biosynthetic pathway. These findings highlight the critical need for standardizing growing conditions in pharmacologically driven cultivation to ensure a consistent and high-quality essential oil chemotype.

This study investigated the pro-fertility effects of pineapple (Ananas comosus) on the reproduction of female Wistar albino rats. Reproductive health represents a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, and the relationship between nutrition and female reproductive function has gained significant attention. The research aimed to evaluate the profertility effects of fresh pineapple juice consumption on reproductive parameters including organ development and hormonal regulation.Thirty Female Wistar albino rats were used as experimental models, with doses of normal control, 5mg/kg Folic acid, 5mg/kg tamoxfene, then 5ml/kg and 20ml/kg of fresh pineapple juice administered over a 21-days treatment period. Results demonstrated significant estrogenic effects with dose-dependent increases in reproductive organ mass,particularly uterine weight, across all treatment groups compared to controls. Hormonal assays revealed notable alterations in reproductive hormone levels, including changes in luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and estrogen levels, indicating enhanced estrogenic activity and modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. The findings suggest that pineapple extract possesses measurable pro-fertility properties mediated through its complex array of bioactive compounds. The mechanism appears to involve anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant protection, hormonal modulation that collectively create favorable conditions for reproductive function

Mushrooms are good degraders of wastes and plant litters. Marasmiellus inoderma is an edible and medicinal mushroom that usually grows on leaf litters and wood wastes. To test for the suitability of plant wastes on the vegetative growth of the mushroom, extracts from selected wastes were used to prepare media for its growth in the laboratory. Six plant wastes were
selected for this study. They include Oil palm fruit fiber (OPFF), Banana leaves, Terminalia catappa leaves (TC), paper wastes , cotton wastes and melon husk wastes. The extracts of each these wastes were prepared by weighing 100g of the waste into 1L of water and boiling for 15 minutes. The extracts were amended with Dextrose sugar and PDA and then inoculated a 10mm
agar plug of a 7day old culture. The results obtained indicated that the extract from cotton waste (75.75 ± 12.71 mm) and cotton amended with PDA gave the highest mycelia extension (74.33 ± 1.61 mm) followed by Oil palm fruit fiber extract amended with PDA (73.5 ± 3.04 mm) and the least extension was observed in the extract of waste paper amended with PDA (39.33 ± 29.17 mm). The extract of cotton amended with PDA gave the highest biomass yield after 12 days of inoculation. The pure extract of Banana leaves compared well with PDA in the mycelia extension of the mushroom while Melon amended with PDA compared favorably with PDA in biomass yield of the mycelium. The density and morphology of the mushroom on the extracts
differed considerably. While the mycelia growth and form was dense in pure banana and cotton extracts, it was slightly dense in the pure extracts of OPFF and Terminalia catappa leaf and very dense in melon husk and cotton waste extracts when both were amended with PDA. This study shows that the fungus can be cultivated on these wastes and can therefore be used to reduce the waste and convert these wastes into food. These substrates can also be useful in generating the mycelia of the fungus Marasmiellus inoderma to produce other value-added products

A groundwater quality assessment was conducted in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, Edo State, to evaluate the levels of physicochemical parameters within the region. Fifteen (15) borehole water samples were randomly collected and analyzed to determine their physicochemical characteristics. Both statistical and cluster analyses were applied to interpret the data. The dendrogram, a key output of the cluster analysis, illustrated the Euclidean distance at which different elements and clusters merged. Four distinct clusters were identified, with Cluster 1comprising mainly heavy metalsshowing strong correlations and similarities among related parameters. The study examined parameters such as pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity, salinity, and total suspended solids (TSS). Anions including sulfate, phosphate, nitrate, and carbonate were also analyzed, while heavy metals and cations such as sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) were determined using a flame atomic absorption spectrometer. Results indicated that the pH of the groundwater samples ranged between 5.28 and 5.98, suggesting slight acidity. TDS values varied from 5.34 to 6.22 mg/L, while nitrate concentrations ranged from 1.54 to 2.12 mg/Lall within the World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limit of 10 mg/L. Copper concentrations were found between 0.039 mg/L and 0.086 mg/L, with borehole BH9 recording the highest value and BH15 the lowest. Manganese levels ranged from 0.05 mg/L to 0.35 mg/L, exceeding the WHO guideline of 0.1 mg/L in only one sample (BH8). Overall, the findings suggest that while some boreholes meet WHO standards, othersespecially wellsexceed acceptable limits for certain parameters, rendering them unsuitable for human consumption. The deterioration of groundwater quality in the area is likely attributed to
anthropogenic activities such as improper waste disposal and sewage discharge.

This study investigates the isolation and characterization of Lactobacillus sp.Isolated Trace Minerals to evaluate their capacity for bacteriocin production.Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), especially those of the Lactobacillus sp, are well known for producing antimicrobial substances called bacteriocins. These natural peptides effectively inhibit the growth of harmful and spoilage microorganisms. Probiotic supplements such as Trace Minerals contain diverse Lactobacillus strains with strong bacteriocin-producing potential, making them valuable for both health and industrial applications.The isolates morphological and biochemical Properties was perform to confirm their identity to be Lactobacillus sp. Bacteriocin synthesis was assessed using the agar well diffusion technique to determine antimicrobial activity against selected test organisms. The influence of hydrogen peroxide neutralization and proteolytic enzyme treatment was examined to confirm the stability and proteinaceous nature of the produced bacteriocin. In addition, high- performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed to characterize the molecular structure of the compound identified in the bacteriocin. This study isolated and identified Lactobacillus species from Trace Mineral probiotics to assess their bacteriocin production and antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli. The isolates were cultured in MRS media under anaerobic conditions and confirmed through biochemical tests. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method, while enzyme and hydrogen peroxide treatments verified the protein nature of the bacteriocin. HPLC analysis confirmed the purity and presence of active bacteriocin fractions. The isolates displayed typical Lactobacillus characteristics and showed strong inhibitory effects against E.coli, supporting their potential as natural antimicrobial agents.This study confirms that Lactobacillus sp from Trace Mineral probiotics produce effective bacteriocins with strong activity against E.coli. The results verified the protein nature and purity of the compound, indicating its potential as a natural and safe antimicrobial agent for health and industrial use.

Nature has provided humans with medicine, shelter, food, clothing, fragrances, and transportation throughout history. The D3 organic® supplement's antidepressant and anxiolytic properties are assessed. Antidepressants and anxiolytics were tested in the forced swim, tail suspension, and elevated plus maze. Twenty-five 20–30 gram mice were divided into five groups of five. Group 1 received 10 ml/kg distilled water, Groups 2, 3, and 4 received 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg D3 organic® supplement extract, and Group 5 received 20 mg/kg oral fluoxetine. After receiving D3 and fluoxetine, mice were placed in an unbreakable transparent cylinder filled with water at 25°C for one hour. Animal immobility was measured after 5 minutes of swimming. Twenty 20–30 gram mice were randomly assigned to five four-animal groups. Group 1 received distilled water (10 ml/kg), groups 2–4 D3 organic® supplement extract (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg), and group 5 diazepam. The animals spent five minutes in the central maze an hour after receiving D3 organic® supplement extracts and diazepam. The number of entries and open arms time were recorded. In the forced swimming and tail suspension test, D3 organic® supplement extract (100 and 200 mg/kg) and fluoxetine (20 mg/kg) reduced immobility time compared to the control (p<0.05). Diazepam (10 mg/kg) and D3 organic® supplement extract (100 and 200 mg/kg) increased time spent and percentage time spent in the open arm compared to the control (p<0.05). D3 Organic® Supplement has anxiolytic and antidepressant properties.

This study assessed heavy metal contamination and associated health risks in soils around a sand mining site in Ikpeshi, Edo State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected at varying distances from the mine and analyzed for Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd, Mn, Ni, Cr, and Co. Results showed that most metals were below U.S. EPA limits, except Cobalt (Co). Pollution indices indicated low contamination levels overall, though Cadmium (Cd) showed moderate contamination linked to mining activities. The ecological risk index (RI = 79.11) revealed low ecological threat. Health risk assessment found negligible non-carcinogenic effects, while the Total Carcinogenic Risk (TCR) from Pb, Cd, Ni, and Cr was within the U.S. EPA acceptable range (10⁻⁶ to 10⁻⁴) for both adults and children. However, Cd and Cr contributed most to potential cancer risk. Continuous monitoring and stricter mining regulations are recommended to prevent future health hazards.

Sphenocentrum jollyanum is an important West African medicinal plant traditionally used for treating fever, digestive disorders, and metabolic ailments. Despite its widespread use, limited information exists regarding its biochemical safety and systemic effects during prolonged exposure. This study investigated the effect of aqueous leaf extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum on renal and hepatic biochemical parameters in Wistar rats following 28 days of sub-chronic oral administration. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of five animals each: a control group that received distilled water and three experimental groups treated with 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg of the aqueous leaf extract, respectively, for 28 consecutive days. Blood samples were analyzed for creatinine, urea, uric acid, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) using standard spectrophotometric methods. The mean biochemical values obtained were as follows: creatinine (4.25 ± 2.07–8.96 ± 3.32 mg/dL), urea (99.82 ± 7.00–161.54 ± 22.92 mg/dL), uric acid (8.18 ± 3.75–13.57 ± 3.88 mg/dL), and AST (54.41 ± 7.28–74.03 ± 18.06 U/L). The results showed no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) between treated and control groups across all parameters. A slight, non-dose-dependent variation in creatinine and a mild reduction in urea and AST levels at higher doses indicated stable renal and hepatic function. These findings suggest that the extract does not induce nephrotoxicity or hepatotoxicity but may
support metabolic and antioxidant balance. In conclusion, sub-chronic administration of S. jollyanum aqueous extract in Wistar rats was well tolerated and biochemically safe at all tested doses. The study validates the plant’s traditional use as a detoxifying and restorative agent and supports its potential as a natural source of hepatoprotective and nephroprotective compounds.

Microbial degradation of emulsion paints poses significant challenges in industrial and environmental settings, often leading to discoloration, structural breakdown, and reduced durability of coated surfaces. Among the key microbial agents, Bacillus spp. and Escherichia coli have been identified for their enzymatic capabilities and metabolic versatility in degrading paint components such as binders, pigments, and additives. These bacteria utilize organic compounds in paint as carbon sources, contributing to biodeterioration through acid production, biofilm formation, and enzymatic hydrolysis. This study presents a comparative analysis of the physiological and growth responses of Bacillus spp. and Escherichia coli over a 21-day incubation period under ambient laboratory conditions. Key parameters monitored included pH, optical density (OD), temperature, and total viable count (TVC), providing insights into microbial adaptation and proliferation trends. For Bacillus, the pH remained stable at 7.0 until Day 7, then declined to 6.0 by Day 14, suggesting increased metabolic activity and acid production, followed by a slight recovery to 6.2. OD values fluctuated, peaking at Day 14 (0.40), indicating active biomass accumulation, while TVC rose progressively from 0.675 ×10⁷ CFU/mL to 9.60 ×10⁷ CFU/mL by Day 21, reflecting robust growth. Temperature varied modestly between 24°C and 27°C, with no apparent inhibitory effect. In contrast, E. coli
exhibited a sharper pH decline from 6.8 to 5.6 by Day 14, consistent with its fermentative metabolism. OD decreased steadily from 0.51 to 0.26, suggesting reduced cell density or viability over time. However, TVC increased significantly, from 0.5 ×10⁷ CFU/mL to 8.35 ×10⁷ CFU/mL, indicating sustained proliferation despite declining OD. Temperature ranged from 26°C to 30°C, with peak microbial activity observed at higher temperatures. The results highlight distinct metabolic and growth profiles between the two species. Bacillus demonstrated resilience and biomass recovery, while E. coli maintained high cell counts despite reduced optical density. These findings underscore the importance of multi-parameter monitoring in microbial ecology and have implications for bioprocess optimization, environmental microbiology, and industrial fermentation systems.