FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCES

The purpose of this study was to compare contrast sensitivity and visual acuity with contact lenses and spectacle lenses. This study involved a total of 30 participants, with a mean age of 22.10 ±3.66 years. Participants comprised of males (n = 13) and females (n = 17), who are myopic and hyperopic. Visual acuity was measured using a Snellen's chart at a distance of 6 m, and contrast sensitivity was determined by Pelli Robson chart at a distance of 1 m, one hour adaptation was given for the contact lens. The powers of the spectacle lenses are equivalent to the powers of the contact lenses. The results of the contrast sensitivity score and visual acuity measurement was compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for non-parametric data to determine whether or not there were statistically significant differences in VA and Contrast Sensitivity using spectacles and contact lenses. The finding of this study reveals that there was no significant difference in visual acuity using both spectacle lens and contact lens ((p > 0.05, where p>0.05334). However, the result of this analysis shows a significant difference in contrast sensitivity using contact lens and spectacle lens (p < 0.05, where p<0.00137). In conclusion, this study show that soft contact lenses enhances visual performance and vision
quality with increase in contrast sensitivity better than spectacle lenses And that the choice of refractive correction has impact on visual performance for the majority of myopic and hypertrophy patients.

This study investigates the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of ethanol and aqueous extracts of Curcuma longa (turmeric) rhizomes against clinical nasal isolates. The research aims to evaluate the efficacy of these extracts in combating microbial infections and their potential as natural antioxidants. The chemical composition of the extracts was characterized using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including terpenes, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and sterols. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the broth dilution method, while antioxidant potential was determined through the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. The results indicate that the ethanolic extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against nasal isolates, including Micrococcus species, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococci species. Additionally, the aqueous extract demonstrated strong antioxidant properties, with a linear increase in activity correlating with concentration. The findings suggest that Curcuma longa extracts, particularly the ethanolic extract, hold promise as natural antimicrobial agents, while the aqueous extract shows potential as a potent antioxidant. This study underscores the therapeutic potential of Curcuma longa in addressing antibiotic resistance and oxidative stress-related conditions, providing a scientific basis for its traditional use in medicine and its application in modern healthcare

Coconut is one of the most nutritionally and economically valuable foods known to humankind. Its various edible products further enhance its significance, making the coconut palm a highly valued tree, especially in tropical regions where it is widely cultivated. Due to the increasing resistance of microorganisms to commonly used antibiotics, there is a growing need for alternative antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of coconut water obtained from both young and mature coconut fruits against selected gastrointestinal bacteria. Gastrointestinal bacteria are known to cause infections that primarily affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. For this study, coconuts were sourced from three locations in Benin: Oluku Market, NIFOR, and Iguosa Market. Coconut water contains lauric acid, a bioactive compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, coconut water plays a role in improving digestion and nutrient absorption while offering a low-calorie alternative to other beverages. Given its natural antimicrobial potential, coconut water could serve as a functional food with therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing gastrointestinal infections. Further research into its mechanisms of action and potential applications in clinical settings could provide new insights into its role as a natural remedy for bacterial infections Coconut is one of the most nutritionally and economically valuable foods known to humankind. Its various edible products further enhance its significance, making the coconut palm a highly valued tree, especially in tropical regions where it is widely cultivated. Due to the increasing resistance of microorganisms to commonly used antibiotics, there is a growing need for alternative antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of coconut water obtained from both young and mature coconut fruits against selected gastrointestinal bacteria. Gastrointestinal bacteria are known to cause infections that primarily affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. For this study, coconuts were sourced from three locations in Benin: Oluku Market, NIFOR, and Iguosa Market. Coconut water contains lauric acid, a bioactive compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, coconut water plays a role in improving digestion and nutrient absorption while offering a low-calorie alternative to other beverages. Given its natural antimicrobial potential, coconut water could serve as a functional food with therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing gastrointestinal infections. Further research into its mechanisms of action and potential applications in clinical settings could provide new insights into its role as a natural remedy for bacterial infectionsCoconut is one of the most nutritionally and economically valuable foods known to humankind. Its various edible products further enhance its significance, making the coconut palm a highly valued tree, especially in tropical regions where it is widely cultivated. Due to the increasing resistance of microorganisms to commonly used antibiotics, there is a growing need for alternative antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of coconut water obtained from both young and mature coconut fruits against selected gastrointestinal bacteria. Gastrointestinal bacteria are known to cause infections that primarily affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. For this study, coconuts were sourced from three locations in Benin: Oluku Market, NIFOR, and Iguosa Market. Coconut water contains lauric acid, a bioactive compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, coconut water plays a role in improving digestion and nutrient absorption while offering a low-calorie alternative to other beverages. Given its natural antimicrobial potential, coconut water could serve as a functional food with therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing gastrointestinal infections. Further research into its mechanisms of action and potential applications in clinical settings could provide new insights into its role as a natural remedy for bacterial infections

This study investigated the isolation and characterization of Lactobacillus species isolated from Mason’s Natural Probiotics and the production of bacteriocin with antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The isolate was identified as a Gram-positive, catalase- and oxidase-negative rod that fermented galactose, lactose, and D-fructose without gas formation. Bacteriocin activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method, while enzyme (trypsin) and hydrogen-peroxide neutralization (sodium pyruvate) tests confirmed the proteinaceous nature of the
compound. The absence of blue-black coloration in the potassium iodide–starch assay indicated that no hydrogen peroxide was produced. HPLC analysis revealed the
presence of bioactive phenolic and flavonoid compounds, including catechin, naringenin, and caffeic acid, which may contribute synergistically to antimicrobial activity. The bacteriocin demonstrated notable inhibition of S. aureus comparable to some standard antibiotics. These findings indicate that bacteriocin from Lactobacillussp. possesses strong antibacterial potential and could serve as a safe, naturalbio-preservative and alternative to synthetic antimicrobials.

The plant commonly known as the forest fever tree has been widely used in African traditional medicine for treating fever, jaundice, malaria, and liver-related disorders. Its hepatoprotective potential is attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, including flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins. The study investigated the effect of methanol leaf extract of Anthocleista grandiflora on liver enzyme activities in Wistar rats. Fresh leaves were collected, authenticated, air-dried, pulverized, and extracted using methanol. Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of five rats each. The control group received distilled water, while the other groups were administered 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg body weight of the methanol extract daily for 28 days. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were determined as biomarkers of hepatic function using standard diagnostic methods. The results revealed no statistically significant (p > 0.05) differences between treated and control groups. ALT values ranged from 80.40 ± 3.79 to 101.40 ± 6.39 U/L, AST from 157.60 ± 4.33 to 169.40 ± 2.73 U/L, and ALP from 373.20 ± 19.78 to 451.00 ± 67.33 U/L. These results indicate that the methanol leaf extract of A. grandiflora did not induce hepatotoxicity at the tested doses. The stability of liver enzyme levels within normal physiological limits suggests that the extract maintained hepatic integrity and may possess hepatoprotective properties. The observed effects are attributed to the presence of antioxidant phytochemicals that prevent lipid peroxidation, stabilize hepatocyte membranes, and enhance cellular defense mechanisms. These findings support the traditional use of A. grandiflora in managing liver ailments and demonstrate its potential as a safe natural therapeutic agent. Further studies are recommended to isolate and characterize the specific bioactive constituents responsible for its hepatoprotective action

This study evaluated the non-carcinogenic health risks associated with dermal exposure to heavy metals chromium (Cr), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in groundwater from Ikpeshi, Edo State, Nigeria. The research aimed to quantify metal concentrations, assess health risks across population groups, identify contamination sources and propose mitigation strategies. Groundwater samples were analyzed and risk assessment models were applied using Chronic Daily Intake (CDI), Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) frameworks as outlined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA, 2004). Results revealed that chromium exhibited the highest mean concentration (0.177 mg/L), followed by zinc (0.257 mg/L) and lead (0.016 mg/L). Both Cr and Pb levels exceeded the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO, 2017) and USEPA, primarily due to artisanal and small-scale mining, mine tailings leaching and oxidation of metal-bearing minerals within the Igarra schist belt. Risk assessment outcomes indicated that children are more vulnerable to dermal exposure than adults, given their higher skin surface area-to-body weight ratio and frequent water contact. Chromium was identified as the dominant contributor to non-carcinogenic risks, followed by lead, while zinc
showed minimal contribution. Some HI values for children exceeded unity, indicating potential chronic health effects and the mean carcinogenic risk (CR) for Cr approached the USEPA threshold of 1 × 10⁻⁴. The study concludes that chromium and lead pose significant public health
concerns in Ikpeshi groundwater. The findings emphasize the need for effective groundwater monitoring, regulation of mining effluents and community-based mitigation strategies such as the use of affordable household filtration systems, rainwater harvesting and public health education to reduce dermal exposure risks and safeguard water quality.

Lentic water bodies in Nigeria are often neglected in favour of flowing systems making them prone to pollution, nutrient enrichment and ecological degradation. This study assessed the zooplankton community structure, physical and chemical characteristics, and water quality of Obazuwa Lake, Edo State, Nigeria.Water and zooplankton samples were collected monthly from May to November, 2024 at three sampling stations. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured in situ, while other physicochemical parameters were analyzed in the laboratory using standard procedures. Zooplankton specimens were identified using recognized taxonomic keys. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) to test for spatial variation and Pearson’s correlation to assess relationships between biotic and abiotic components. Water quality index (WQI) was computed to classify lake water quality. Multivariate analysis such as Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA), Principal component analysis (PCA) and Redundancy Analysis (RDA) was also used to identify community patterns.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia and associated complications such as dyslipidemia and organ dysfunction. The limitations of synthetic anti-diabetic agents and their side effects have heightened interest in medicinal plants. This study investigated the hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic potentials of the leaves of Irvingia
gabonensis (Bush mango) and Ocimum gratissimum in normoglycemic and Streptozotocininduced diabetic Wistar rats. Ethanol extract of the combined leaves of Irvingia gabonensis and Ocimum gratissimum was obtained through cold maceration and subjected to acute toxicity and efficacy studies. No signs of toxicity were observed at doses up to 5000 mg/kg, suggesting a
wide safety margin. The extracts significantly reduced blood glucose levels, improved lipid profiles by lowering triglycerides, LDL, and total cholesterol while increasing HDL, and restored liver function markers (AST, ALT, ALP, and total protein) towards normal values. These effects were comparable to glibenclamide, a standard Antidiabetic drug. These findings provide scientific evidence supporting the ethno medicinal use of Irvingia gabonensis and Ocimum gratissimum in diabetes management. This study concludes that these plants exhibit potent anti- diabetic properties, and may serve as safe, natural alternatives or complementary therapies for diabetes and related complicationDiabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia and associated complications such as dyslipidemia and organ dysfunction. The limitations of synthetic anti-diabetic agents and their side effects have heightened interest in medicinal plants. This study investigated the hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic potentials of the leaves of Irvingia gabonensis (Bush mango) and Ocimum gratissimum in normoglycemic and treptozotocininduced diabetic Wistar rats. Ethanol extract of the combined leaves of Irvingia gabonensis and Ocimum gratissimum was obtained through cold maceration and subjected to acute toxicity and efficacy studies. No signs of toxicity were observed at doses up to 5000 mg/kg, suggesting a wide safety margin. The extracts significantly reduced blood glucose levels, improved lipid profiles by lowering triglycerides, LDL, and total cholesterol while increasing HDL, and restored liver function markers (AST, ALT, ALP, and total protein) towards normal values. These effects were comparable to glibenclamide, a standard Antidiabetic drug. These findings provide scientific evidence supporting the ethno medicinal use of Irvingia gabonensis and Ocimum gratissimum in diabetes management. This study concludes that these plants exhibit potent anti- diabetic properties, and may serve as safe, natural alternatives or complementary therapies for diabetes and related complication

This study investigates the toxicological and behavioral impacts of larsor seasoning—a representative artificial food additive—on drosophila melanogaster, serving as a model organism to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying seasoning-induced stress. Natural seasonings, derived from herbs and spices, offer beneficial bioactive compounds; however, the rising consumption of artificially formulated seasonings has raised concerns over potential adverse health effects due to synthetic additives and high sodium content. In this study, 2–3-weeks-old male and female drosophila melanogaster were exposed to varying concentrations of larsor seasoning incorporated into a standardized cornmeal-agar diet. The experimental design included comprehensive assessments of survival rates, negative geotactic behavior (a measure of neuromuscular function), and the expression levels of key stress-related genes, including KEAP1, GSTD1, PHGPx, and Cap’n’collar (CncC). Survival test was conducted over a two-week period and negative geotaxis tests after exposure to lasor seasoning for seven (7) days. Gene expression analyses were performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis. Results indicated an increase in mortality and significant impairments in climbing ability among flies exposed to higher concentrations of larsor seasoning. Gene expression data revealed a notable upregulation of KEAP1, suggesting an elevated oxidative stress response, alongside a significant suppression of GSTD1, PHGPx, and CncC, which implies a compromised detoxification and cellular defense mechanism.

Eye safety is an important aspect of occupational and academic health, particularly in practical fields such as agriculture where students are frequently exposed to dust, chemicals, sharp tools, and other potential hazards that may cause eye injuries. This study examines the level of awareness of eye safety practices among students in the Faculty of Agriculture. The study aims to determine students’ knowledge of eye safety measures, their attitudes toward eye protection, and the extent to which they adopt preventive practices during agricultural activities and practical sessions.

A descriptive survey research design was employed for the study. Data were collected through the use of structured questionnaires administered to students in the Faculty of Agriculture. The questionnaire assessed respondents’ awareness of eye hazards, knowledge of protective measures, and their compliance with recommended eye safety practices. The data obtained were analyzed using appropriate descriptive statistical methods.

The findings of the study are expected to reveal the level of awareness of eye safety practices among agriculture students and identify possible gaps in knowledge and practice. The study emphasizes the importance of promoting eye safety education and encouraging the use of protective equipment to reduce the risk of eye injuries among students. It is recommended that institutions incorporate eye safety awareness programs and enforce the use of protective gear during practical agricultural activities.