FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCE

Fungal infections are major hazards to crop health and yield in agricultural settings. This study investigates into how well salicylic acid and methyljasmonate work to lessen the negative effects of fungal pathogen exposure on oil palm seedlings. The effects of these phytohormones on the production of important plant biomolecules and antioxidants, such as carotenoids, lycopene, ascorbic acid, total sugar, proline, and vitamins A and E, was accessed by thorough investigation. The results show that when oil palm seedlings are exposed to fungal infections, their levels of significant plant compounds and antioxidants significantly decrease. Nevertheless, the utilization of salicylic acid and methyljasmonate exhibits an impressive ability to mitigate these deleterious consequences. In particular, both phytohormones efficiently promote the synthesis of vital biomolecules, preserve or increase antioxidant and vitamin levels, and reduce lipid peroxidation brought by fungal pathogen challenge. These findings highlight the phytohormones' potential as long-term and efficient tools in farming methods meant to lessen the negative effects of fungal infections on crop quality and productivity. Innovative crop protection and management techniques for oil palm farming can be developed with important insights from an understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the protective actions of salicylic acid and methyljasmonate.

This study evaluates the spatiotemporal changes of land use/land cover (LULC) and vegetation cover in a mapped area of the Ikpoba River catchment in Benin City, Nigeria, from 1965 to 2025 and ascertains the impact of these changes on the rivers’ physicochemical water quality. Geospatial tools, such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), were used to map land use/land cover (LULC) and vegetation health changes over the sixty-year period. Water samples were collected monthly from three sampling points for a three-month period (May to July 2025) and underwent physicochemical analysis. Analysis revealed a substantial decline in vegetation cover driven by urbanization and infrastructural development. The land cover was overwhelmingly dominated by built-up areas in the latter years (2015 and 2025), a trend that began with the appearance of built-up areas in 1995. Water analysis showed variable pH values, along with high electrical conductivity (EC), total suspended solids (TSS), and turbidity levels. Specifically, turbidity readings (up to 40.00 NTU) significantly exceeded the WHO drinking water limit of 5.00 NTU, indicating severe sediment loading, and pH values exhibited a trend toward the acidic lower limit. These results make it clear that immediate action is needed to better handle waste, stop erosion, plan land use wisely and constantly check the water quality. Implementing these strategies will ensure the long-term protection of the Ikpoba River, maintain ecological stability and secure community members' access to water resources.

The study investigated the effects of 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-Q) on the swimming performance of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings over a 28-day exposure period. Fish were exposed to nominal concentrations of 0 µg/L 6PPD-Q (positive control), 200 µg/L DMSO (negative control), and 500, 1000, and 1500 µg/L 6PPD-Q. Swimming speed showed a clear concentration and time dependent reduction across all treatment groups compared to the positive control. The mean swimming speeds (m/s) for the respective treatments were 2.115 ± 1.252, 0.8950 ± 0.2758, 0.8050 ± 0.0778, 0.1100 ± 0.0212, and 0.0250 ± 0.0071 on day 7; 4.110 ± 1.725, 0.4750 ± 0.1061, 0.0600 ± 0.0212, 0.0600 ± 0.0212, and 0.0150 ± 0.0071 on day 14; 0.8950 ± 0.2758, 0.6050 ± 0.0778, 0.1350 ± 0.0212, 0.0550 ± 0.0071, and 0.0350 ± 0.0071 on day 21; and 0.5800 ± 0.1838, 0.2500 ± 0.1556, 0.1650 ± 0.0495, and 0.0400 ± 0.0212 on day 28. Statistically significant differences (p <0.05) were observed between all 6PPD-Q-exposed groups and the positive control, except for the 200 µg/L and negative control groups on days 7, 21, and 28 (p > 0.05). Percentage reductions in swimming speed relative to the positive control were 57.7%, 61.9%, 94.8%, and 98.8% on day 7 for the negative control and 500, 1000, and 1500 µg/L groups, respectively. By day 21, reductions reached 32.4%, 84.9%, 93.9%, and 96.1%, and further deepened to 56.9%, 71.6%, 86.2%, and 93.1% by day 28. The observed decline in swimming performance indicates that 6PPD-Q impairs locomotor ability in C. gariepinus in a dose and duration dependent manner, potentially compromising survival and ecological fitness in contaminated aquatic environments

Mobile phones are frequently exposed to various environmental contaminants and serve as potential reservoirs for bacterial pathogens, particularly among individuals in high-contact occupations such as market women. This study aimed to isolate and identify bacterial contaminants from mobile phones used by selected market women in Benin City, Edo State, to assess potential public health risks. Total bacterial counts (TBC) ranged from 1.70 ± 0.02 × 10⁴ cfu/m³ to 3.80 ± 0.53 × 10⁴ cfu/m³, indicating significant microbial contamination. Morphological and biochemical characterization identified Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp., Klebsiella sp., Streptococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp., and Enterococcus sp. Staphylococcus spp. exhibited the highest occurrence (20%), followed by Streptococcus spp. (16%) and Escherichia coli (13%), while Klebsiella sp. had the lowest occurrence (5%). Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed varying resistance patterns among isolates. Escherichia coli exhibited resistance to cefotaxime and nitrofurantoin, while Staphylococcus sp. was resistant to cefotaxime and nitrofurantoin but sensitive to ampicillin, levofloxacin, and imipenem. The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index ranged from 0.3 to 0.5, highlighting the presence of antibiotic-resistant strains with potential public health implications. These findings emphasize the need for improved hygiene practices among market women to minimize bacterial contamination and potential disease transmission.

This study examined the Relationship Between Socia Media Usage and The Mental Health Outcome Amon Students of University of Benin Living in Ekosodin Community, Benin City. Five research questions were raised to guide this study; What are the predominant patterns of social media usage among University of Benin students in Ekosodin? What is the prevalence and nature of mental health outcomes in this community?. Is there a significant relationship between social media usage and mental health indicators? What factors mediate or moderate this relationship? How can interventions be designed to promote positive mental health in the context of social media use? The target population comprises all undergraduate students of the University of Benin residing in Ekosodin community. According to university records and community estimates, this population is approximately 5,000-7,000 students, drawn from various faculties including Arts, Sciences, Engineering, and Social Sciences. This size ensures statistical power for correlational analyses, consistent with similar studies (e.g., samples of 382-830 in Nigerian research). A multi-stage sampling technique is employed. First, stratified sampling divides the population by faculty (proportional allocation: e.g., 30% Social Sciences). Second, cluster sampling selects hostels or streets in Ekosodin as clusters. Third, simple random sampling chooses participants within clusters using a lottery method or random number generators. This technique ensures representativeness and reduces bias in a dispersed community like Ekosodin. Convenience elements are incorporated for hard-to-reach subgroups, balancing rigor with practicality. The following findings are: the study established a significant association between the intensity of social media use and negative mental health outcomes, particularly symptoms of anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion among students. Students who spent prolonged hours online reported poorer psychological well-being compared with moderate users. Evidence indicated that academic stress and peer influence function as mediating variables that amplify the psychological effects of social media exposure. Students experiencing high academic pressure were more vulnerable to depressive mood patterns linked to online comparison and information overload. Recommendations for the findings are as follows: University authorities should develop structured digital-wellbeing education programmes aimed at promoting responsible social media habits, time management, and awareness of psychological risks associated with excessive.

The above study explores the impact zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) play in cadmium (Cd) clean-up as well as their ability to affect Vigna unguiculata growth. Cowpea, often referred to as black-eyed pea or Vigna unguiculata, is a significant legume crop that is extensively grown due to its high nutritional content and resistance to environmental stresses like heavy metals. The hazardous heavy metal cadmium seriously endangers both human health and agriculture. Owing to their distinctive physicochemical characteristics, such as their high reactivity and large surface area, zinc oxide nanoparticles are considered to be excellent candidates for a range of agricultural applications. The purpose of this study is to evaluate ZnO NPs’ impacts on Vigna unguiculata growth metrics and their capacity to reduce Cd toxicity. The experimental setup consisted of control and four treatments (25mg/kg) for the heavy metal and ( 10, 30 and 50mg/kg) for the Nanoparticles in three replicates. Data for growth (germination, plant height, stem girth, leaf loss and number of leaves) were collected weekly during the course of the experiment. Preliminary results show that the application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) xii positively impacts the developmental processes of Vigna unguiculata. The plants exposed to a lower dosage of ZnO NP and Cd exhibit improved growth characteristics compared to the plants exposed to higher concentration of Zinc Oxide, suggesting a stimulatory effect on the plant’s overall development. This study adds to the knowledge of the potential advantages and applications of zinc oxide nanoparticles in agriculture, specifically their ability to mitigate Cadmium toxicity and their positive influence on the growth of Vigna unguiculata. These results have implications for sustainable farming practices and the development of eco-friendly strategies to combat heavy metal pollution in Agricultural system.

The relentless rise of multidrug-resistant pathogens, coupled with the deleterious health impacts of oxidative stress, has intensified the global search for novel, safe, and effective bioactive compounds from natural sources. Piper guineense (Schumach. and Thonn), (Family- Piperaceae) commonly known as African black pepper, West African black pepper, Ashanti pepper, or uziza is renowned for its rich phytochemical profiles and antimicrobial activities. The aim of this study was to access the phytochemicals, antioxidants and antimicrobial profiling of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Piper guineense fruit and seed. Samples of commercial Piper guineense fruits and seeds were sourced from Local Markets in Benin City and identified by lecturers in the Plant Biology and Biotechnology laboratory, University of Benin while the microbial isolates used were obtained from stock cultures of clinical isolates stored from cases of Nosocomial infections from University of Benin teaching Hospital (UBTH). The phytochemical, antioxidants and antimicrobial properties were assayed using standard methods. Also antimicrobial activities of the plant extracts were investigated using agar well diffusion methods. Data obtained for the different parameters were subjected to statistical analysis using the analysis of variance. The results of the qualitative phytochemical composition of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of P. guinense revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, terpenoids, glycosides and steroids were present in ethanolic and aqueous extracts of P. guinense while anthraquinones was present in ethanolic extract and absent in aqueous extract. The quantitative phytochemical composition of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of P. guinense shows that Saponins (10.05±1.05 mg/g) had the highest composition, followed by phenolics (8.51±2.56 mg/g) in aqueous extract while flavonoids (12.10±2.17 mg/g) had the highest composition in ethanolic extract of P. guinense.. Also, aqueous extract (22.82%) had the highest percentage yield compared to ethanolic extract (17.87%). Zone of inhibition of the aqueous fruit and seed extract of Piper guineense on bacterial isolates ranged from 6.6±1.6 - 12.9±1.1mm while zone of on fungal isolates ranged from 4.5±1.5 - 11.3±1.5 mm respectively. Zone of inhibition of the ethanolic fruit and seed extract of Piper guineense on bacterial isolates ranged from 6.6±1.6 - 23.5±1.6 mm while zone of on fungal isolates ranged from 3.5±1.6 - 21.5±2.5 mm respectively. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration ranged from 0.9 – 8 mg/ml for aqueous extract and 0.9 - 8 mg/ml for ethanolic extract. Minimum Bactericidal/Fungicidal concentrations (MBCs/MFCs) in aqueous ranged from 4 – 12 mg/ml and 0.9 – 8 mg/ml for ethanolic extracts. DPPH for aqueous extract ranged from 0.756±0.66 (10 µg/mL) to 0.306±0.21 (200 µg/mL), ethanolic extract range from 0.623±0.31 (10 µg/mL) to 0.226±0.05 (200 µg/mL) compared to control (Ascorbic acid) which range from 0.421±0.13 (10 µg/mL) to 0.110±0.04 (200 µg/mL). Percentage inhibition of aqueous extract ranged from 13.5±0.41 (10 µg/mL) to 56.12±0.66 (200 µg/mL), ethanolic extract ranged from 17.65±0.41 (10 µg/mL) to 78.62±0.66 (200 µg/mL) while control (ascorbic acid) range from 49.81±0.11 (10 µg/mL) to 98.01±0.35 (200 µg/mL). ethanolic extract (262.2 ± 7.3 µmol Fe²⁺/g) had the highest reducing power compare to ethanol extract (133.6 ± 11.3 µmol Fe²⁺/g) when compared to control (ascorbic acid) 615.5 ± 10.6 7.3 µmol Fe²⁺/g. The antimicrobial and antioxidant activities observed in Piper guinense fruit and seeds aqueous and ethanolic extracts is due to the presence of phytochemicals. The use of Piper guinense in folk medicine is therefore recommended

The consumption of ready-to-eat vended fruits has become increasingly popular in urban areas, particularly in developing countries. These fruits, often sold by street vendors, are convenient and accessible, providing a quick source of nutrition for many consumers. However, this convenience comes with significant health risks due to potential microbial contamination. Fresh fruits are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, making them an integral part of a balanced diet. Fruits can become contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms at various stages, including during harvesting, processing, and selling. Common sources of contamination include unsanitary water used for washing, improper handling by vendors, and exposure to environmental contaminants. Research has identified several bacterial pathogens associated with vended fruits, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus. These pathogens pose a significant risk of foodborne illnesses, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal diseases in consumers. In Nigeria, the rising trend of consuming ready-to-eat fruits has been noted, particularly in markets where hygiene standards are often overlooked. The primary issue is the high prevalence of pathogenic microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus on these fruits. These pathogens can easily contaminate fruits through contact with sewage, contaminated utensils, and water, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses among consumers. The presence of these microbial contaminants not only compromises the safety of ready-to-eat vended fruits but also poses a significant public health risk. The high bacterial and fungal loads observed in these fruits suggest that they are unfit for human consumption, necessitating urgent intervention to improve hygiene standards and food safety practices among vendors. The microbial contamination of ready-to-eat vended fruits is a significant concern. Studies have shown that these fruits can harbour a variety of microorganisms due to exposure to soil, dust, water, and mishandling during harvest and post-harvest processing. The microbial load in the vended fruits was assessed by determining the colony-forming units (CFU) per gram of fruit. The results indicate varying levels of microbial contamination across different fruits. The findings from this study reveal significant microbial contamination in ready-to-eat vended fruits from Ekosodin Community and the environs of the University of Benin. The results indicate a high microbial load across all fruit samples, with both bacterial and fungal contaminants identified. The presence of these bacteria and fungi suggests potential health risks, as they can cause foodborne illnesses if consumed

This study evaluated the genotoxic risk associated with chronic exposure to petrol fumes among petrol station attendants in Benin City using the micronucleus (MN) assay on exfoliated buccal epithelial cells. A cross-sectional design was employed, comparing 25 exposed attendants with 10 unexposed controls. Buccal cell samples were collected with sterile tongue depressors, fixed in Carnoy’s fixative, and stained with May–Grünwald and Giemsa. A total of 3,400 cells were microscopically examined and scored for nuclear abnormalities according to established cytogenetic criteria. Results showed highly significant increases (p < 0.001) in all nuclear anomalies among the exposed group. Mean frequencies of micronucleate (10.76 ± 3.36 vs. 1.3 ± 0.82 per 1000 cells), binucleated (6.28 ± 2.55 vs. 0.5 ± 0.70), karyorrhexis (7.52 ± 2.47 vs. 1.0 ± 1.15), and anucleate (7.60 ± 2.54 vs. 0.7 ± 0.82) cells were markedly elevated in the exposed group, representing 8.3-, 12.6-, 7.5-, and 10.9-fold increases respectively, with p-values ranging from 2.17E-07 to 7.43E-10. These findings provide compelling evidence of substantial cytogenetic damage indicative of chromosomal instability and cytotoxic effects resulting from petrol fume exposure. The study concludes that occupational exposure to petrol fumes poses a significant genotoxic hazard and recommends strict enforcement of safety protocols, use of personal protective equipment, regular biomonitoring, and improved environmental controls at petrol stations to reduce health risks and safeguard workers.

This study evaluated the effects of cassava mill effluent (CME) on the NPK of hydrocarbon polluted soil in Delta State, Nigeria. This has severely degraded soil fertility by depleting essential macronutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) and elevating total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) levels beyond regulatory limits thereby threatening agricultural productivity and food security for local communities dependent on subsistence farming. This study aimed to evaluate baseline NPK levels in contaminated clay-loam soils from spill-affected sites while investigating the bioremediation potential of cassava mill effluent as a nutrient-rich bio stimulant containing 2–3% N, 0.5% P and 0.3% K, applied at varying frequencies including daily, once, weekly, monthly and control setups. Soil samples were collected from 0–15 cm depths pre treatment and post-treatment over a 12-week period, with analyses conducted using the Kjeldahl method for N via digestion and titration, ascorbic acid spectrophotometry at 710 nm for P, flame photometry at 766.5 nm for K, and gas chromatography-flame ionization detection with n-hexane extraction for TPH, leveraging indigenous microbes like Pseudomonas and Bacillus for bio stimulation in alignment with sustainable waste-to-wealth approaches in cassava-producing regions. Results demonstrated substantial nutrient restoration and TPH reduction following remediation, with pre-treatment values showing low NPK (N: 0.008–0.07%; P: 1,055–5,322 ug/g; K: approximately 0.10 mg/kg) while diminishing TPH to undetectable levels, surpassing the outcomes of single or monthly treatments. These improvements arose from heightened microbial activity and enhanced nutrient cycling, which alleviated toxicity and reinstated bioavailability in the polluted soils. The findings highlight the effectiveness of cassava effluent for affordable soil rehabilitation at near-zero cost, with potential to elevate crop yields by 20–40% and contribute to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2 (Zero Hunger) while recommendations advocate for ongoing bio stimulation protocols and regular monitoring to refine remediation efforts in Niger Delta ecosystems, ultimately promoting ecological resilience and supporting community livelihoods.