FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCES

A branching, annual plant with lance-shaped green leaves that grows to a height of 60 to 70 cm, Andrographis paniculata is an example of this (Mishra et al, 2007).( Kabeeruddin & Kitabul,1937) wrote in their journal that in Asian nations including India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Java, Malaysia, and Indonesia are among those where it thrives frugally. The name Kalmegh is the most popular one in India. One of the widely employed medicinal herbs in the country, and it may be found in the plains. Additionally, the plant is referred to as the “king of bitters”( Kabeeruddin & Kitabul,1937; Shahid, 2011). Since the entire plant, including the leaves, has a very bitter flavor. It has a long history of medicinal use In conventional Chinese, Indian, and Ayurvedic medicine, as well as Western medicine. (Pawar et al, 2016; Liu et al, 2016; Sivananthan & Elamaran, 2013). A.paniculata Is frequently prescribed in Ayurveda to treat gonorrhea, malaria, dermatitis, intestinal worm infestation, jaundice, sore throat, fever, liver diseases, and jaundice (Pawar et al, 2016; Thokchom et al, 2018) . While treating diarrhea, laryngitis, gastrointestinal infections, and inflammation, the plant is also used in Chinese medicine to eliminate body heat from the body, including that caused by fevers and toxins (Hu et al, 2017; Yang et al, 2020) . A. paniculata serves as an immune system according to modern pharmacology anticancer, antibacterial, stimulant, cures myocardial ischemia, pharyngotonsillitis several more (Dai et al, 2019; Hidalgo et al, 2013) including anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, etc. Additionally, recent research has found a treatment for SARS-CoV-2 using A. paniculata is possible (Banerjee et al,2021).

The Niger Delta region, located in the Atlantic coast of southern Nigeria is an area covering
about 70000km2 (27000 square miles). More than 25% of Nigeria’s population inhabit this
region profoundly rich in petroleum resources- crude oil, natural gas, asphalt and tar. Exploration and exploitation of these petroleum resources have downgraded the diversified
environment of the region whose consequence is pollution due to 4200 oil spillages and 250
gas flaring sites. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of petroleum exploration
and exploitation induced air, soil and water pollution on the eyes of the inhabitants of the
Ogbite community in Rivers state of the region. This research is a cross sectional
investigative study which investigated petroleum explorative and exploitational processes
producing hazardous chemicals induced oculovisual perturbations. With a sample size of 115
respondents, data collected were subjected to statistical package for social sciences (SPSS)
version 22.0 to highlight compromises of the oculovisual tissues of the Ogbite community. Descriptive statistics were presented in the form of pie chart tables, bar charts and graphs. The relationship between petroleum pollution and consequences on the eye were explored
using Pearson’s chi-square test and statistical relevance of P<0.05. The findings indicated
huge external adnexia perturbations, indicating compromise of the oculovisual tissues of the
people of Ogbite Community which included visual perceptual description, external
examinations, internal examination, signs and symptoms presented and environmental impact
assessment of water and soil. Visual acuity at distance showed 54 (47%) + 2.836 from 6/24 to
no light perception while 61 (53%) + 2.901 had visual acuity of 6/5 to 6/18. For near v.a N5- N10 had 61(53%) and N12-N24 had 19 (16.5%) and 28(24.35%). were uncooperative Visual
perceptual description showed: blur vision 48 respondents (41.74%) + 2.121, cloudy/hazy
vision 15 (12.18%) + 0.726 and 50 (43.37%) + 2.025 had normal vision. External
examinations had pterygium 20(17.4%) + 2.121 red eyes/ redness 16(13.90%) + 1.41. The
total number of respondent with external problems were 60(52.17%) which included
penguecula, conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis, corneal ulcer and chalazion. Internal
examination indicated cloudy/opaque media 19(16.52%)+2.038, age related macular
degeneration 19(16.52%) +2.038. Signs and symptoms presented include: tearing 35(30.43%)
+ 2.076, foreign body sensation 30 (26.09%) + 2.037, pain 30(26.09% + 2.037), itching 25
(21.74%) + 0.707 and headache 19 (16.52%) + 0.508. For water samples, RV1 had high iron, 0.353 + 0.104mg/L, Zinc 0.150 + 0.048mg/L, Cadmium 0.011 + 0.004mg/L and Lead 0.17 + 0.005mg/L. Egbem 2 had high COD 23.3 +
8.02mg/L, salinilty 52 + 0.023mg/L, TDS 57.3 + 25.7mg/L and Cl 88.6 + 30.26 mg/L. For
soil samples, SSC2 had high EC 1118.0 + 507.4mg/k, Cl 1173 + 800.1 mg/k and SSS had
high Fe 156.02 + 65.76 mg/K, Zinc 104.30 + 41.67mg/k, Cu 56.30 + 22.499 mg/k. The
chemical analysis of the soil and water samples indicated changes from normal especially the
heavy metals and other parameters for assessment of samples. From the findings, the
oculovisual systems of some of the people of Ogbite have been compromised by crude oil
and gas exploration and exploitation and the consequences of these are the manifestation of
increased internal and external eye problems.

This research aimed to investigate the cytomorphological aspects of Picralima nitida (Stapf) T. Durand & H, Durand and Hunteria umbellata (K.Schumann) H. Hallier, both belonging to the Apocynaceae family, within Edo State. The objectives included
studying cytological details, potential evolutionary rates, and distinguishing differences between the two species. Matured plant samples were collected from the University of Benin's botanic garden and various locations in Benin City. Morphological characteristics, leaf length and width, and plant height were examined. Cytological techniques involved observing meiosis in flower buds and obtaining epidermal peels for microscopic analysis. The study revealed various stomatal typesand their distribution, contributing to taxonomic insights. Chromosome numbers were assessed, with 2n=22 confirmed for Picralima nitida. The chromosome count for Hunteria umbellata couldn't be confirmed due to pollen production interference. Theconstancy of chromosome numbers was emphasized as a crucial species trait. Epidermal characteristics, including cuticle, shape of subsidiary cells, and stomatal wall patterns, were explored for taxonomic and systematic significance. Stomatal abnormalities, such as contiguous stomata in Hunteria umbellata, were observed, suggesting ongoing evolutionary processes

This study was conducted in Eruvbi stream, Benin City Edo State, Nigeria, aimed at investigating community structure of cladocerans in Eruvbi stream. The sampling period was carried out from the early dry season in march 2023 to the early rainy season period of My.Three sampling stations were selected. Water samples were collected in 3 replicates monthly. Fifteen (15) Physico-chemical parameters including, pH, Electrical Conductivity, Total Suspended Solids, Dissolved oxygen, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Nitrate (NO3), Suphate(SO4), Phosphate (PO4), Calcium (Ca), and Magnesium (Mn) were analyzed using standard
methods. Phosphate and Nitrate were the only two Physico-chemical parameters with significant difference(p<0.05) among all the physicochemical Parameters of the stations. Seven Species were uncovered within the Eruvbi stream wiz; Alonella excise, Bosmina longirostris, Moina micrura, Pleuroxus hamatus hamatus, Acroperus harpae and moina macrocopa, Amongst which station two results appeared to have the highest diversity and evenness, while Station 1 has the lowest diversity but relatively even distribution of species. Station 3 falls in between in terms of diversity and evenness. Thus, the findings of the research study provides crucial in understanding the health and ecological dynamics of the Ervubi stream and may have implications for conservation and management efforts

Myopia, a prevalent refractive error affecting a significant proportion of the global population, has been increasingly linked to psychological health, particularly anxiety and depression. This study investigates the relationship between the severity of myopia and the levels of anxiety and depression among myopic adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Benin, Nigeria, involving 371 participants aged 18–75. Participants underwent visual screenings and completed validated psychological assessment tools, including the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depression and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) for anxiety. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, employing Pearson correlation, regression analysis, and ANOVA. Results indicated a statistically significant positive correlation between the level of myopia and both anxiety and depression levels (p <0.05). The findings suggest that individuals with higher myopia experience greater psychological distress, likely due to concerns about progressive vision loss, social withdrawal, and academic or occupational limitations. Gender-based differences were observed, with female participants reporting higher depression levels. However, anxiety variations with gender and age were not statistically significant. The study underscores the importance of integrating psychological health assessments into routine optometric care and suggests a multidisciplinary approach to managing myopia, including mental health support. Future research should explore longitudinal studies to establish causality and the potential neurobiological mechanisms linking myopia to mental health disorders.

Over the years, space exploration has witnessed so many challenges especially in area of life support system which has hindered manned space craft for long space exploration. One of the major limiting factors in space life support systems is gravitational force. Plants are a vital component of life support systems in space exploration because they provide essential components for humans’ long-term extraterrestrial survival. They can be used in bio-regenerative life support systems (BLSS) as sources of food and oxygen, for the absorption of CO2, and for the recycling of waste during space missions, they can also improve the atmosphere in enclosed spaces, as well as lowering the risk of mental health for astronauts. Clinorotation, a technique that simulates microgravity conditions, has gained significant interest in plant research due to its potential implications for space agriculture and understanding terrestrial plant growth responses and biological life support systems. The design involved subjecting maize seeds to clinorotation conditions within a controlled laboratory setup. The experiment was conducted in multiple replicates, with conventional germination conditions serving as the control group. The clinorotation apparatus, designed to simulate microgravity
conditions, facilitated continuous rotation of the maize seeds, removing the effects of gravitational forces. Germination parameters, including germination percentage, germination rate, mean germination time, and other associated growth metrics, were meticulously measured and analyzed. Additionally, various physiological parameters, such as root and shoot lengths, were assessed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the maize seed’s germination under clinorotation stress. The results demonstrated significant variations in germination parameters between the clinorotation-exposed and control groups. The clinorotated maize seeds exhibited faster germination initiation, increased germination percentage, and altered germination rates
compared to their terrestrial counterparts. The findings from this study provide crucial insights into the effects of microgravity simulation on maize germination and early growth stages. Understanding these responses is essential for the successful cultivation of crops during prolonged space missions and the establishment of extraterrestrial habitats.

Ekpoma rice is a native rice grown in Esan Land and it is believed to be rich in fibre,
carbohydrate, protein, crude fat, and favorable nutritional content. Ekpoma rice is an
important source of carbohydrate. The rice flour was stored for 0-3 months to investigate possible storage changes in the nutritional content of the rice flour. The proximate, mineral analysis and amino-acid profile was done using standard methods such as AOAC methods.
Kjeldahl procedure was used to determine the crude protein in the rice. Determination of the minerals was carried out using Nitric-perchloric acid digestion and the amino-acid analysis was carried out using an amino-acid analyzer. Results show it contains(81.65-82.52%)
carbohydrate, (5.53-5.89%) protein, (0.75-1%) crude fat, (0.08-0.47%) crude fibre, (0.31- 0.67%), ash content, (9.60-11.00%) moisture content and (932.00-948%), nitrogen. Mineral analysis shows it is rich in phosphorus(P), potassium(K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn). The amino-acid analysis shows that it rich in both essential and non-essential amino-acids. The essential amino-acids includes lysine, leucine, isoleucine, histidine, methionine, methylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine. The nutritional content of Ekpoma rice bran is comparable rich bran, therefore, it can be consumed by individuals with or without health issues

This study investigates the reproductive and histological alterations in Eisenia fetida(earthworm) exposed to varying concentrations of petrol-contaminated soil. Earthworms play a crucial role in soil health and ecosystem functioning, and their response to environmental pollutants, such as petroleum-based compounds, can provide valuable insights into the impact of soil contamination on terrestrial organisms. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of petrol exposure on the reproductive health and histological structure of Eisenia fetida, considering different levels of petrol contamination.
The experiment was conducted using soil samples contaminated with petrol at concentrations of 13.3%, 33.3%, 53.3%. The earthworms were exposed to these varying concentrations for a period of 28 days. Reproductive success was assessed by evaluating the number of cocoons laid, hatching success, and the development of offspring. Histological analysis of the earthworms was
performed to observe any structural changes in their tissues, including the digestive system, reproductive organs, and muscular layers . The results revealed significant reproductive impairments at higher petrol concentrations, with a marked reduction in the number of cocoons and hatching success. Histological analysis showed structural damage to the digestive tract, reproductive tissues, and muscular structures, with notable changes such as cell degeneration, reduced cellular integrity, and signs of inflammation.
These findings suggest that exposure to petrol-contaminated soil adversely affects both the reproductive capabilities and the physiological integrity of Eisenia fetida, with potential implications for soil biodiversity and ecosystem health.
This study contributes to the understanding of the ecological risks associated with petrol contamination in soils, highlighting the importance of assessing the impact of petroleum pollutants on soil-dwelling organisms. The results underscore the need for effective pollution management strategies to mitigate the harmful effects of petrochemical contaminants on terrestrial ecosystems.

Solid waste management is of global concern in both developing and developed countries. Despite much awareness aimed at reducing the waste generated due to anthropogenic activities, there has been an increase in solid waste generation throughout the world. Inefficient management of these dumpsites causes uncontrolled gas and liquid emissions such as leachates. The study focused on assessing the bacteriological analysis of municipal solid waste leachate in Benin city. The objectives included isolation and enumeration of heterotrophic bacteria and coliform present in MSW leachate. Raw landfill leachate samples were collected from landfill site (open dumpsite) having low lying land area located at St savior and Iguomo in Benin City and was analyzed for the cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics of bacterial isolates. The result shows the four bacteria isolated from the leachate sites (St. Savior and Iguomo) which includes: Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Eschericha coli and Serratia marcescens. The bacterial isolates showed varying levels of which is higher at Iguomo leachate (4.9 log10 cfu/g) sites as compared to St. savior leachate sites (4.6 log10 cfu/g) and the Coliform count was also slightly higher at Iguomo leachate sites (3.8 log10 cfu/g) as compared to St. savior leachate sites (3.3 log10 cfu/g). The level of coliforms, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Eschericha coli and Serratia marcescens exceeded the EPA recommended limits for irrigation and for waste water discharged into the environment. Based on the findings of this study, there is the need to effectively review waste disposal system Nigeria. To forestall leaching of pollutants into water bodies, location of dumpsites should be at an appreciable distance to our water bodies. In addition, municipal dumpsites should be replaced with proper engineered landfills.

Maintaining steady blood glucose levels is essential for metabolic balance and overall health. This study explores the potential of bitter kola, a rich source of bioactive compounds, to regulate blood sugar levels. Despite the global prevalence of diabetes mellitus, research on the acute and sub-acute impacts of bitter kola on blood glucose levels remains limited. The research utilizes various approaches, including testing for acute toxicity, evaluating normal blood sugar levels, and conducting anti-diabetic experiments on rats. It found that administering ethanol extracts of bitter kola at doses up to 5000 mg/kg is safe and can lower blood glucose levels in both normal and diabetic rats, indicating its potential in managing hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, comparable to the standard drug Glibenclamide. Moreover, the extract illustrated possible liver protection abilities and showed a positive influence on lipid levels, notably lowering cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels. Crucially, it didn't negatively affect kidney tissue, indicating its safety. These results emphasize the potential of bitter kola as a natural dietary approach in managing diabetes, providing optimism for better blood sugar control and overall health.