FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCES

Public health and illness prevention depend on having access to clean drinking water and practicing good hygiene. To determine their effects on community health, the Upper Mission community in Benin City's water quality and cleanliness practices were examined. One hundred households chosen by multistage sampling were included in the community-based cross-sectional design. To investigate water sources, storage procedures, treatment techniques, and hygiene practices, structured questionnaires were given out. Additionally, physicochemical and microbiological analyses were performed on 30 drinking water samples obtained from river sources, sachet water, and boreholes. 89% of households have access to water within 100 meters of their homes, with sachet water (52%) and borehole water (41%) serving as the main sources of drinking water. There is a significant gap between accessibility and safety practices, as 80% of individuals did not purify the water before drinking it. With pH values ranging from 4.6 to 8.0, total dissolved solids between 24 and 136 milligrams per liter, and electrical conductivity between 44 and 219 microsiemens per centimeter, the physicochemical parameters mostly satisfied WHO requirements. River water had the highest
contamination (mean: 202.4×10⁰ colony-forming units per milliliter), followed by borehole water (79.7×10⁰ colony-forming units per milliliter) and sachet water (43.2×10⁰ colony-forming units per milliliter), according to microbiological analysis, which found
heterotrophic bacterial counts ranging from 26×10⁰ to 235×10⁰ colony-forming units per milliliter). River water (mean: 42.6×10⁰ colony-forming units per milliliter) and some borehole samples (mean: 24.9×10⁰ colony-forming units per milliliter) had total coliforms, but sachet water did not. Only one sample of river water had Escherichia coli. Although the infrastructure is good, there are notable shortcomings in environmental hygiene, handwashing with soap (34%), and water treatment, with 38% of residences located close to waste disposal sites. There is an immediate need for improved waste management systems, borehole maintenance, targeted health education initiatives, and increased water quality monitoring

This study was carried out to determine the wound healing potency of Parkia biglobosa ethanol leaf extract on surgical wounds using animal model. Thirty-two (32) healthy female albino rats (Rattus norvegicus), two months old, with an average weight of about 188g were purchased. Normal excision wounded animals in Group 1 (Control) were only given food and water. Group 2 (Standard drug) were given cicatrin powder to treat their wounds. Group 3 were given 10% Parkia biglobosa extract to treat their wounds. Group 4 were given 20% Parkia biglobosa extract to treat their wounds. After seven days, serum blood samples were taken, analyzed for anti-inflammatory. The results of showed that the extracts of P. biglobosa had positive effect on wounded healing. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α) of group 1 animals range from 136.0 pg/ml to 110.5 pg/ml, group 2 animals range from 87.0 pg/ml to 117.6 pg/ml, group 3 animals range from 123.45 pg/ml to 117.6 pg/ml, while group 4 animals range from 116.7 pg/ml to 133.6 pg/ml. The Superoxide dismutase (SOD) values of the treated animals were as follows: group 1 animals range from 12.6 U/mg to 18.95 U/mg, group 2 animals range from 17.85 U/mg to 25.15 U/mg, group 3 animals range from 14.2 U/mg to 23.9 U/mg, while group 4 animals range from 14.8 U/mg to 16.1 U/mg. The study recommends that the potential and safety of this plant extract, as well as their possible protective mechanisms, should be determined before administration into humans.

Fermented foods are known to contain active components such as probiotics and antioxidants. Probiotics are living microbes which when taken in sufficient amounts confer health benefits. Due to lactose intolerance in some individuals and the high fat content of dairy foods, other means of obtaining probiotics have been explored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the probiotic potential of some bacteria isolated from Nigerian fermented foods. Samples of fufu, ogi, tuwo, palm-wine, ogogoro, iru,
ogiri and ugba were purchased from New Benin Market in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Enumeration and isolation of bacterial and lactic acid bacteria were carried out using nutrient agar and De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe agar, using pour plate technique. Cultural, morphological and biochemical tests were employed to identify the bacteria isolated. The bacterial isolates were subjected to acidic pH of 3 and bile salt concentration of 0.3%. The antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates were determined using
the disc diffusion method. The antibacterial activity of the isolates were tested against three test pathogens, Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp. and Klebsiella sp. using the agar well diffusion technique Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method. The mean heterotrophic bacterial counts of Nigerian fermented foods ranged from 5.00±0.28 (ogiri) - 8.70±0.42×107 cfu/g (iru), while the lactic acid bacterial countsranged from 0.80±0.28 (iru) – 5.00±0.42×104 cfu/g. Bacillus sp,, Citrobacter sp., Lactobacillus sp.1,
Lactobacillus fermentum2 and Streptococcus sp.2 were isolated from ogi, Bacillus subtilis3 and Streptococcus sp.1 were isolated from the ugba, Klebsiella pneumonia were isolated from fufu, Lactobacillus fermentum1 were isolated from tuwo, Bacillus subtilis1 were isolated from iru, Lactobacillus sp.2 were isolated from palm-wine while Bacillus subtilis2 were isolated from ogiri-egusi and Escherichia coli isolated from ogogoro. The result of the acid tolerance tests revealed that percentage survivability ranged from 55.60% (Streptococcus sp.1) – 200.00% (Citrobacter sp.1). Percentage survival of bacterial isolates to bile salt concentration of 0.3% ranged from 147.80% (Streptococcus sp.2) – 462.50% (Escherichia coli). The antibiotic resistance index ranged from 2 (Streptococcus sp. and Bacillus subtilis3) –8 (Escherichia coli). The antibacterial activity of the isolates ranged from 2mm-10mm with Escherichia coli and Citrobacter species having no activity against any of the test pathogens. Bacillus subtilis E2 passed all the test criteria, so it can be recommended as a potential probiotics, while Escherichia coli was suspected to be a contaminant due to observed antibiotics resistance. To avoid contaminants in fermented foods, proper hygienic measures, production
procedures, storage and cooking should be ensured.

Streptozotocin is commonly used to induce experimental diabetes in animal models which has been shown to exert hemotoxic effects in addition to its β-cell cytotoxicity. This study investigates the hemomodulatory properties of a bi-herbal leaf extract prepared from Vernonia amygdalina (bitterleaf) and Alstonia boonei in STZ-induced diabetic male Wistar rats. The plants, widely used in African ethnomedicine, are known for their antidiabetic, antioxidant, and hematopoietic activities. In this experiment, diabetes was induced using intraperitoneal injection of STZ (50 mg/kg), after which diabetic rats were treated orally with different doses of the bi-herbal extract for 21 days. Hematological parameters such as red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, packed cell volume (PCV) and white blood cell (WBC) count were evaluated alongside blood glucose levels. Results showed a significant improvement in hematological indices in the extract treated groups (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) compared to untreated diabetic controls (50 mg/kg), with effects comparable to those of standard antidiabetic drugs (10 mg/kg). The observed hematological recovery may be attributed to the synergistic action of the phytochemicals (alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins) present in both V. amygdalina and A. boonei. This study provides scientific validation for the traditional use of these plants and highlights the therapeutic potential of their combined extract in managing diabetes-induced hemotoxicity.

6PPD-quinone (6PPD-Q), a transformation product of tire antioxidants, has recently emerged as a potent aquatic contaminant with significant toxicological implications. This study investigated the sublethal effects of 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-Q) on lipid metabolism in Clarias gariepinus juveniles over a 28-day exposure. Fish were exposed to 500, 1000, and 1500 μg/L of 6PPD-Q, with positive and negative controls, following OECD (2019) guidelines. Lipid profile parameters total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) were analyzed to assess hepatotoxic and oxidative effects. Results (P <0.05) showed significant increases in TC and LDL-C, with concurrent reductions inHLDL-C and VLDL-C at higher concentrations, indicating oxidative stress and lipid dysregulation. Triglycerides exhibited an initial rise followed by depletion at the highest dose, suggesting disrupted β-oxidation. further mechanistic studies are recommended to elucidate the biochemical and molecular pathways affected by 6PPD-Q exposure.In conclusion, chronic 6PPD-Q exposure induced lipid imbalance and hepatocellular stress in C. gariepinus, underscoring the toxic potential of tire-derived pollutants in freshwater ecosystems

This study was conducted to evaluate the bacteriological and sensory qualities of fresh and packaged mixed fruit salad sold along the Ugbowo axis in Benin City, Edo State. Mixed fruit salad samples were collected from various vendors located near the University of Benin, specifically within the Ekosodin and BDPA areas. Upon collection, the samples were securely placed in sterile zip-lock bags and subsequently transported to the laboratory for bacteriological analysis. The bacteriological assessment was performed using cultural techniques, with the identification of isolates conducted through biochemical methods. Additionally, phenotypic virulence properties of the isolates were evaluated, and antimicrobial sensitivity was assessed using the biodisc diffusion method. The results indicated that the heterotrophic bacterial count of mixed fruit salad samples stored in refrigeration and at room temperature for four hours ranged from 2.50 ± 2.12 x 103 cfu/g to 4.08 ± 1.24 x 105 cfu/g. In contrast, samples kept in refrigeration and at room temperature for 24 hours exhibited a range between 1.51 ± 0.20 x 105 cfu/g to 5.70 ± 0.88 x 104 cfu/g. The Staphylococcus aureus count for samples stored in refrigeration and at room temperature for four hours ranged from 1.57 ± 0.78 x 103 cfu/g to 4.50 ± 0.42 x 102 cfu/g, whereas those kept for 24 hours showed a count ranging from 2.50 ± 0.14 x 103 cfu/g to 8.96 ± 0.23 x 104 cfu/g. The coliform bacteria count in mixed fruit salad samples stored for four hours ranged from 2.34 ± 0.21 x 103 cfu/g to 7.20 ± 0.88 x 102 cfu/g, compared to samples stored for 24 hours which exhibited counts ranging from 2.50 ± 0.14 x 103 cfu/g to 8.96 ± 0.23 x 104 cfu/g. The percentage frequency of occurrence of bacterial isolates was as follows: Staphylococcus aureus (12%), Bacillus megaterium (12%), Lactobacillus spp. (12%), Serratia marcescens (6%), Flavobacterium spp. (10%), Enterobacter cloacae (8%), Micrococcus lactis (2%), Bacillus cereus (10%), Staphylococcus warnei (2%), Enterococcus faecium (8%), Bacillus thuringiensis (8%), Salmonella arizonae (4%), Bacillus licheniformis (2%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (2%), and Bacillus subtilis (2%), respectively. The findings of this study underscore the necessity for further research aimed at developing effective strategies for mo itoring and mitigating microbial hazards in ready-to-eat foods, thereby safeguarding consumer health against potential outbreaks associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

This experiment aimed to investigate the subchronic toxicity of Icacina trichantha ethanolic extract and its impact on the liver's biochemical and histological parameters in male Wistar rats. The research specifically focused on examining the potential positive or negative effects of the extract. The main objective was to evaluate liver function by analyzing various biochemical
parameters, including liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT), total protein, albumin, bilirubin, and lipid profile. Over a period of 28 days, twelve male Wistar rats were divided into four groups, with the first group serving as the control. The rats in the other groups were orally administered the extract in different solutions. After the specified time, the rats were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture. The collected blood samples were then used to analyze the biochemical parameters. The histological examinations of the liver showed vasodilation, normal hepatocytes and activation of Kupffer cells. The results of this study indicate that Icacina trichantha has specific effects on Wistar rats, particularly in terms of regulating liver function, lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress. These specific effects suggest a complex interaction between the active compounds in the extract and the physiological processes of the rats. The observed changes in important biochemical markers demonstrate the potential of Icacina trichantha as a source of therapeutic bioactive compounds. However, caution should be exercised when using it, and further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and assess its safety and effectiveness in clinical settings. Nevertheless, these findings offer valuable insights into the specific effects of Icacina trichantha and provide a foundation for future investigations into its pharmacological potential. aminations of the liver revealed vasodilation, normal hepatocytes, and activation of Kupffer cells.

In this study, screening and selection of Cryptococcus neoformans was conducted using Urease test. Pigeon dropping is known to be a source of this infectious organism. A total of twelve (12) samples from pigeon droppings were collected from three markets in Benin City. All samples were cultured on SDB (Sabouraud Dextrose Broth) and incubated for 24hrs at 37°C. After 24hrs, the isolates were sub-cultured on fresh SDB and incubated for 24hrs. After growth was observed, the isolates were plated on SDA (Sabouraud Dextrose Agar) for identification of the organism. Isolates of the organism obtained from this samples that was sub- cultured were subjected to urease test. Clinical samples collected from UBTH were also subjected to urease test. The results showed that the isolates that were positive for urease tests with highest growth rate at 37°C were recorded for samples x obtained from Oliha market. This experiment shows the possibility of isolating and selecting C. neoformans on urease test

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

Zooplankton constitute a diverse assemblage in most freshwater habitats. A study on the assessment of physico-chemical Characteristics in relation to zooplankton communities in fresh water habitats in Oghara, Delta State was conducted from January – March 2021. Water and Zooplankton samples were collected at monthly and fortnightly respectively at three different sampling stations. Physicochemical parameter were determined using standard methods while Zooplankton Samples were preserved with 4% formaldehyde solution. Mean temperature ranged from (26.00 ±0.577 - 28.83 ± 1.589). Mean Value of Ph was slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from (6.76 – 6.05). Dissolved Oxygen was quite low typical of most eutrophic water bodies. BOD mean value was relatively high (5.80 – 8.40) owing to
increased organic decomposition by organisms during the study period. Nitrate ranged from (0.57 to 5.27) during the study period. The result of zooplankton composition indicated the presence of 33 species of Zooplanktons belonging to three major classes; Cladocera 1108 individual taxa (93.5%), Rotifera 5 individual taxa (0.43%) and Copepoda 72 individual taxa (6.07%). Cladocera were more diverse with 21 representative species, followed by Copepods and Rotifers with 9 and 3 species respectively