FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCES

The study microbial analysis of a mixed fruit juice sample using brine as the preservative was carried with the aim of producing mixed fruit juice from the extracted juices of watermelon and pineapple, and also to determine the effect of different rations of brine solution in preserving the produced mixed fruit juice. The fruit juice from the watermelon and orange was extracted using the pressing and filtration technique while the mixed fruit juice was prepared by mixing different rations of orange and watermelon (80:20), orange and watermelon (30:70) and orange and watermelon (60:40). The brine solution was prepared by using different rations (10:90, 20:80, 40:60 and 60:40) of sodium chloride and calcium chlorides respectively. The effect of the different rations of the brine solutions on the microbiological and physiological properties of the mixed fruit juices was done using standard laboratory procedures. The overall acceptability of the different mixed fruit juices after day 7 of the experiment was found to be 45%, 35% and 70% for the orange and watermelon (80:20), orange and watermelon (30:70) and orange and watermelon (60:40) respectively. The results of the effect of the different concentration of the brine solutions for the preservation of the different rations of the extracted juice showed that mixtures ration orange and watermelon (60:40) was more stable in terms of microbial growth on the juice while the pH of the different juice rations was found to be slightly neutral at day 0 of the experiment and then acidic at day 7 of the experiment. The results of the effect of the different brine solutions on the microbial count of the juice mixture recorded no microbial growth in any of the treatments at day 7 of the experiment. This was attributed to the increased acidity of the juice at day 7 of the experiment. Findings from this study has shown that the juice mixture orange and watermelon (60:40) was found to be more stable in terms of the sensory, physiological and microbiological evaluation

The increasing global demand for food, coupled with the imperative for sustainable agricultural practices, has driven interest in nanofertilizers as efficient alternatives to conventional chemical fertilizers. This study examined the effects of macronutrient nanofertilizers synthesized from banana peels on the germination of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seed. Macronutrient nanofertilizer was biosynthesized. Five treatment concentrations (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) were evaluated for germination performance, including the first day of germination (FDG), the last day of germination (LDG), the peak period of germination (PPG), the median germination time (MeGT), the mean daily germination (MDG), the time spread of germination (TSG), and the final germination percentage (FGP). The results showed that moderate concentrations (25–50%) improved germination speed and uniformity. The 25% treatment had the earliest FDG (4.5 days), and the 50% treatment had the highest MDG (33.30). In contrast, excessive application (100%) reduces final germination percentage (12%) compared to the control (22%), indicating inhibitory effects at higher levels. The relatively stable LDG across treatments suggested that nanofertilizers primarily influenced initiation and rate of germination rather than completion. Overall, the findings highlight that nanofertilizers can enhance the dynamics of tomato seed germination when applied at optimal concentration, but over-application compromises seed germination. This study underscores the potential of banana peel-based nanofertilizers as a sustainable agricultural input, emphasizing the importance of dosage optimization for improved crop establishment.

The contamination of soils with heavy metals from anthropogenic activities like automobile repair poses a significant threat to ecosystem and human health. This study investigated the effectiveness of hydroxyapatite (HAp) and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) for the remediation of heavy metals in a contaminated mechanic workshop soil in Ekosodin, Benin City, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected and subjected to four treatments: untreated soil (control), soil amended with PSB only, soil amended with HAp only, and a combined treatment of soil with both HAp and PSB. Hydroxyapatite was synthesized from cow bones via thermal calcination, and indigenous PSB were isolated from the contaminated soil. The concentrations of Chromium (Cr), Lead (Pb), and Nickel (Ni) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry, and microbial counts were monitored over the experimental period.The results demonstrated that the combined application of HAp and PSB was the most effective treatment, achieving the highest percentage removal efficiencies: 38.65% for Cr, 29.05% for Pb, and 33.12% for Ni. Individual applications of PSB or HAP showed significantly lower remediation effects. Furthermore, the combined treatment (Soil+PSB+HAp) supported a higher total heterotrophic bacterial count (2.75 ± 0.71 × 10⁶ CFU/g) compared to the PSB-only treatment (2.50 ± 0.00 × 10⁶ CFU/g), indicating improved soil microbial activity. The study concludes that the synergy between hydroxyapatite and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria enhances the immobilization of heavy metals and promotes a healthier soil microbiome, presenting a promising, eco-friendly strategy for remediating soils co-contaminated with heavy metals

Infertility remains a significant global health challenge, with male factors contributing to nearly half of all reported cases. The search for natural, safe and cost-effective alternatives to conventional fertility drugs has led to increasing interest in medicinal plants. This study investigated the Pro-fertility potential of extracts of Ananas Comosus (Pineapple juice) and Cocos Nucifera (Coconut milk) on adult male Wistar rats. The extracts were administered orally at doses of 50 ml/kg and 250 ml/kg for 28 days with distilled water and Proviron (25 mg/kg) serving as negative and positive controls, respectively. Sperm parameters, reproductive organ indices and hormonal profiles were assessed following standard procedures. The extract-treated groups, especially at 250 ml/kg, showed significant increases in sperm count, motility, morphology and testosterone levels compared to the control (P <0.05). These improvements suggest enhanced spermatogenesis and androgenic activity. The Observed effects are attributed to Phytochemical such as bromelain, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and medium-chain fatty acids, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, the Combination of Ananas Comosus and Cocos Nucifera demonstrated strong pro-fertility potential, indicating its promise as a natural alternative to conventional fertility treatments.

Anthocleista grandiflora has a history of traditional herbal use and has been reported to possess a wide range of therapeutic properties. This current study aimed to explore the effect of chronic administration of a methanol seed extract of Anthocleista grandiflora on the biochemical indicators of renal function in male rats. For this study, twenty male rats were randomly divided into four groups, each consisting of five rats. The extract was administered orally at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg of body weight for a duration of 28 days. The kidney was harvested and processed histologically and blood samples were taken for biochemical assays. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way ANOVA with Graph Pad Prism. The findings revealed that there were no significant differences in the sum of the means of all the parameters measured across the groups (P>0.05) when compared with control. Based on the absence of elevated urea and creatinine levels in the blood and the absence of any abnormalities in the histological examination of kidney tissues across all treatment groups, it can be inferred that Anthocleista grandiflora, administered at varying doses over a four-week period, does not appear to have any adverse effects on kidney function.

Groundwater remains a vital source of potable water in Benin city, yet its quality is decreasing in most parts of Nigeria. This study assessed the effect of on-site sanitation facility proximity on the physiochemical, total and fecal coliform load of groundwater from selected boreholes in Ikpoba Hill and Sapele Road, Benin City. Water samples are collected from four boreholes located within varying distances (11.8m in Ikpoba Hill to 32m in Sapele Road) from onsite sanitation facilities. In-situ measurements of pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS) were performed using a multifunction water quality meter, while nitrate and ammonia-nitrogen concentrations were determined using spectrophotometric methods. The pH values ranged from 4.3±0.01 in Ikpoba Hill to 5.2±0.5 in Sapele Road, indicating slightly acidic water across all samples. EC and TDS values ranged from (19±0 in Ikpoba Hill - 133±0µS/cm in sapele road) and (9±0 in Ikpoba hill - 66±0 mg/L in Sapele Road), respectively, reflecting low mineralization. Nitrate (0.46±0.11 in Sapele Road – 0.713±0.04 mg/L in Ikpoba Hill) and ammonia-nitrogen (0.85±0.17 in Ikpoba Hill – 1.50±0.77mg/L in Sapele Road). Aside from ammonia-nitrogen, other parameters were below NESREA permissible limits and there were no total or fecal coliforms detected in the samples. The observed differences between the mean physiochemical values were not significant (p>0.05). Aside from borehole C and D, the other boreholes (A and B) were sited well above the minimum distance (15m) from the nearest sanitary facilities (septic tank). It is recommended that sensitization be conducted to enlighten intending property owners with respect to the health implications of improperly siting water sources from onsite sanitation facilities.

The study investigated the immunomodulatory effect of a biherbal formulation consisting of Bryophyllum pinnatum and Ocimum gratissimum in Wistar albino rats. The plants were collected, air-dried, powdered, and extracted with methanol. Twenty-five healthy rats were divided into five groups: control, two extract-treated groups (50 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg), a positive control (Vitamin C 50 mg/kg), and a negative control (Cyclophosphamide 30 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally for seven days prior to immunization with sheep red blood cells (SRBC). Immunomodulatory activity was assessed using delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH), hemagglutination antibody titer, total and differential leukocyte counts, CD4 T-cell count, and organ weight indices. Results showed that the biherbal formulation significantly (p < 0.05) increased body weight, thymus and spleen indices, total white blood cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils compared to the control. Serum protein, hemoglobin, and albumin
globulin ratio were also elevated, while Cyclophosphamide markedly reduced these parameters. The extract enhanced CD4⁺ T-cell and B-cell populations, indicating stimulation of both humoral and cellular immune responses. Additionally, the formulation reduced paw edema in DTH assay, demonstrating anti-inflammatory potential. The methanolic extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum and Ocimum gratissimum possesses potent immunomodulatory properties, acting as both an immunostimulant and an anti-inflammatory agent. These findings provide scientific evidence supporting its traditional use and suggest that the formulation may serve as a natural, affordable alternative for immune enhancement and regulation

Dietary cholesterol plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health. Consuming high
amounts of cholesterol can lead to hyperlipidemia and cardiac dysfunction. This study aims to
investigate the effect of frying of egg yolk with groundnut oil on the lipid profile and histological
changes in the heart of female Wistar rats (Rattus norvigecus). A total of sixteen female Wistar rats were divided into four groups labelled I-IV. Group I was administered soybean, groundnu t oil fried egg yolk, corn, premix, soybean oil, group II was administered synthetic cholesterol, corn, premix, soybean oil, soybean, group III was administered corn, premix, soybean oil, soybean and group IV was administered normal feed (grower mash) for 42 days. The rats had unrestricted access to food and water throughout the study. On the 43 rd day, the animals were sacrificed and biochemical analyses of cholesterol and triglyceride were conducted. And histopathological examination was done on the heart tissue. The results showed that rats fed with formulated diet of groundnut oil fried egg yolk had significant decrease in triglyceride level (259.53±3.05 mg/dL) compared to those fed synthetic cholesterol (307.63±7.74 mg/dL) suggesting that frying egg yolk with groundnut oil may reduce the hypertriglyceridemia effect of egg yolk. While, there was an increase in cholesterol level in the group fed with formulated diet of groundnut oil fried egg yolk 589.19±4.03 mg/dL) when compared to the group fed with synthetic cholesterol (577.09±9.53 mg/dL) suggesting that frying may influence lipid metabolism. The experimental group fed groundnut oil fried egg yolk showed significant histopathological changes such as active congestion and vasodilation, while the group fed with synthetic cholesterol showed mild perivascular mobilization of fibroblasts. However, excessive consumption of dietary cholesterol, regardless of preparation method, remains a risk factor for hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular complications.

Ornamental plants are plants selected for cultivation in a garden primarily because of their aesthetic values. Operators of such gardens may depend on its success for subsistence and income security. This study examined ornamental plants in four areas of the University of Benin, Ugbowo campus. The areas include Main gate, Life science, Physical science and Engineering. A total of 35 ornamental plant species were surveyed across the study area. A total of about 25higher plant families were encountered in all the areas. Ornamentals are of great importance to man and the environment. They may be used for beautification, food, shade, aesthetic potentials among others and as wind-breakers. In this study, the diversity and abundance of ornamental species at the University of Benin main campus, Benin City, Nigeria was determined. Most common ornamental species include; Cocos nucifera, Axonopus compressus, Durantaerecta, Eugenia unifolia and Magnifera indica. The dominant families include; Arecaceae, Moraceae, Rubiaceae, Fabaceae, Apocynaceae, Combretaceae, Myrtaceae. The most common type of ornamentals encountered were trees and shrubs having a percentage of about 82.8%and the least been the bulb with a percentage of about 15%