FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCES

Inflammation is a vital biological defense mechanism against harmful stimuli, yet excessive or chronic inflammation contributes to many diseases. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of pineapple (Ananas comosus) and coconut (Cocus nucifera) juice, focusing on their potential synergistic activity. Fresh fruit juices were extracted, combined in varying concentrations, and administered orally to albino rats using standard experimental models of inflammation; including carrageenan- egg albumen- and formaldehyde- induced paw edema. The effects of the juice were compared with a standard non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (Ibuprofen, 10 mg/kg). Acute toxicity studies revealed no mortality or observable toxic effects at doses up to 5 ml/kg, indicating safety of juice. Results showed that treatment with pineapple and coconut juice produced significant dose-dependent reductions in paw edema across all models, comparable to the standard drug. The observed antiinflammatory activity may be attributed to bioactive compounds such as bromelain in pineapple and lauric acid and polyphenols in coconut, which possess antioxidant and cytokine- modulating properties. These findings support the traditional use of these fruits in managing inflammation and suggest that their combined juice could serve as a natural, safe and effective alternative to synthetic anti-inflammatory agents. Further studies on molecular mechanisms and clinical applicability are recommended.

Laurus nobilis, generally known as “bay leaf” belongs to Lauraceae family of plants. It contains compounds which have potential use for food safety because of the antimicrobial properties. Its leaves are widely used in traditional medicines and for food seasoning. This study was aimed at investigating the phytochemical constituents and antifungal effects of Laurus nobilis on selected pathogens; Fusarium solani, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, and Penicillium chrysogenum which were obtained from hair, foot, and toenail samples from some students in the department of microbiology, University of Benin (UNIBEN) using swab sticks and confirmatory tests were carried out using cultural and biochemical methods. The fungi isolates were identified using cultural and morphological characteristics as well as the colour of spores, types of spores, and nature of hyphae. The phytochemical screening of the leaf was done using standard methods. Antifungal susceptibility was done using poisoned food method. Extraction was done after 2 days and 4 days. The percentage composition of saponin, alkaloid, tannin, flavonoid and total polyphenol in the L. nobilis leaves were 4.40%, 4.00%, 13.50%, 11.00%, and 0.010% respectively. In the L. nobilis leaf extract for 2 days and 4 days, F. solani had the highest radial growth of 44.00mm and 31.50mm obtained from ethanol and methanol at 300mg/ml and 400mg/ml respectively. The highest percentage mycelial growth inhibition for 2 days and 4 days were 40.74% and 39.06% obtained from F. solani and P. chrysogenum respectively. The results showed great antifungal activities of the leaves extracts against the selected isolates. From the antifungal activity, it could be noted that L. nobilis extracts in general, offers some potential in the combating of diseases caused by these fungal agents, and may be screened for activity
against several other human and plant pathogens.

This study evaluated the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Pleurotus ostreatus on the weekly body-weight changes and organ weights of Wistar rats under sub-chronic oral administration. Twenty male rats (159–230 g) were divided into four groups: control, and three treatment groups receiving 100 mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of the extract for 28 days. The extract was prepared through ethanol maceration of air-dried P. ostreatus leaves, and animal handling followed institutional ethical standards. Weekly body weights were recorded, and organ weights (liver, kidneys, heart, testes, and spleen) were assessed post-sacrifice. Data were analyzed using ANOVA at P ≤
0.05. The results revealed a dose-dependent, progressive increase in body weight across treatment groups compared with control, with no mortality or observable toxicity. Organ-weight analysis indicated normal physiological ranges, suggesting that the extract did not induce adverse metabolic effects. The observed steady growth pattern indicates that ethanol extract of P. ostreatus may enhance nutrient utilization and metabolic efficiency without compromising safety during sub-chronic exposure. These findings support the nutritional and pharmacological potential of P. Ostreatus as a functional food and safe metabolic enhancer

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of the water-soluble fractions of spent and
unspent engine oil on two microalgae, Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus ecornis. The test algae
were exposed to varying concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) which were
set up in triplicates. The growth response was monitored every two days for 14 days using a visible
spectrophotometer (Model No. HV-721). The percentage inhibition, dry weight and analysis of
variance (ANOVA) were calculated using Microsoft Excel software. Physicochemical parameters
such as pH, electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids were measured using the appropriate method. The results revealed that growth of both microalgae decreased progressively with increasing concentration, with spent engine oil exhibiting greater toxicity than unspent engine oil. Growth rate analysis consistently favored Chlorella vulgaris in both engine oil. Statistical analysis using ANOVA indicated that it was significant (p< 0.0001) in growth response among the various concentrations for both species. The dry weight analysis revealed that in spent engine oil, the highest cumulative dry weights occurred in the control (391.23 mg/L for Scenedesmus ecornis and 394.24mg/L for Chlorella vulgaris), with marked reduction at 75-100%, with both species recording their lowest biomass at 100% (104.13 mg/L for Scenedesmus ecornis and 117.97 mg/L for Chlorella vulgaris) while in unspent engine oil, dry weight remained relatively high at 5-10% Percentage inhibition analysis revealed growth stimulation at low concentrations (5-10%), particularly in Scenedesmus ecornis exposed to unspent engine oil. In spent engine oil, Scenedesmus ecornis exhibited higher sensitivity than Chlorella vulgaris, while in unspent engine oil, Chlorella vulgaris exhibited greater sensitivity. The total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, and pH decreased significantly across all concentrations. Spent engine oil is more toxic to microalgae than unspent oil, and the result indicates that Chlorella vulgaris is more suited for bioremediation of aquatic environments contaminated with unspent engine oil, while Scenedesmus ecornis show stronger potential for the bioremediation of water bodies polluted with spent engine oil.

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, resveratrol, flavonoids, and phytoestrogens with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hormone modulating potentials. Considering the rising prevalence of female infertility and the limitations of conventional therapies, this study explored Tiger nut as a possible natural alternative to enhance reproductive health. This investigation was aimed at evaluating the pregnancy outcome study of juice formulated from cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) on pregnant albino rats. Freshly prepared Tiger nut juice was administered orally to gravid albino Wistar rats at doses of 2 ml/kg and 5 ml/kg across the three trimesters of pregnancy. Key parameters assessed included maternal weight gain, serum progesterone levels, implantation sites, uterine horn development, pregnancy outcomes, fetal biometric indices, and blood glucose levels. The results showed significant improvements in maternal weight, progesterone concentration, implantation success, litter size, and fetal development in the grape-treated groups compared to controls. Additionally, low and higher doses of the Tiger nut juice maintained normoglycemia, within normal ranges. These findings demonstrate that Tiger nut juice positively influences maternal physiology, enhances uterine receptivity, and improves pregnancy outcomes, highlighting its potential role as a nutraceutical for supporting female fertility.

This study investigated the occupational health risks at an airport, focusing on air pollutant concentrations, their spatiotemporal variation, and the associated respiratory health effects among airport workers (N=129). Air quality monitoring was conducted in four areas (Runway, Parking Lot, Departure area, and Reception) during the morning and afternoon periods for carbon dioxide (CO2 ), coarse particulate matter (PM10 ), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5 ). The data were analysed via ANOVA and paired samples t tests. A survey collected data on workers' sociodemographic, workrelated risks, and self-reported respiratory symptoms. Environmental monitoring identified PM2.5 as the primary air quality hazard. The highest observed mean PM2.5 concentration (24.1 μg/m3) exceeded the strict WHO 24-hour guideline. Statistical analysis confirmed significant spatial variation in PM2.5, with the Runway and Parking Lot acting as hotspots and a highly significant temporal spike in the afternoon (p=0.001). Coughing was the most prevalent reported symptom (57.4% of workers). Chi-square tests revealed a strong correlation between respiratory symptoms (cough, phlegm, shortness of breath, and chest pain) and both smoking and a family history of chronic respiratory issues (p≤0.007 for all). Furthermore, workers demonstrated critical systemic failure in safety protocols, with 83.7% lacking knowledge of the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and 96.9% unaware of routine air quality monitoring. The airport environment presents a substantial and avoidable health risk driven by noncompliant PM2.5 levels and systemic safety management failures. Recommendations include implementing mandatory, hands-on PPE training, establishing a transparent PM2.5 monitoring system in hotspots, and creating an occupational health program to screen and counsel high-risk

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) is an essential grain legume in Nigeria, valued for its protein content, soil-fertility benefits, and economic importance. Despite its adaptability, yields remain low under smallholder, low-management systems. This study aimed to characterize and compare morphological traits of three improved cowpea varieties—BBT Brown (ARTPEA/BBT/72/B), BBT White (ARTPEA/BBT/22/W), and ART White (SAMPEA-13/Ife-98-12)—to determine their adaptability and performance under field conditions with minimal inputs. The experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Botanical Garden, University of Benin, using a Completely Randomized Design. Each variety was planted on two ridges under identical low-input conditions, with data collected on germination, vegetative growth, nodulation, and yield attributes. Parameters measured included stem diameter and length, number of leaves, branches, nodules, pods, and seeds per pod. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and mean separation at 5 % significance. Results showed clear varietal differences in morphological performance. Cultivar 1 (ART White) produced the highest average number of pods (14.25 ± 4.23) and seeds per pod (≈ 14.6), while Cultivar 2 (BBT Brown) recorded the longest stems (142.37 ± 9.23 cm) and peduncles (29.84 ± 5.50 cm). Cultivar 3 (BBT White) had the lowest pod count but comparable stem length (140.45 ± 10.71 cm). Leaf number and pod length differed significantly among varieties (p < 0.05). Overall, the improved cultivars exhibited distinctive morphological adaptations, with ART White showing superior reproductive potential under low-management conditions. These findings provide baseline data for varietal selection and breeding programs aimed at enhancing cowpea productivity in resource-limited farming systems.

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) is an essential grain legume in Nigeria, valued for its protein content, soil-fertility benefits, and economic importance. Despite its adaptability, yields remain low under smallholder, low-management systems. This study aimed to characterize and compare morphological traits of three improved cowpea varieties—BBT Brown (ARTPEA/BBT/72/B), BBT White (ARTPEA/BBT/22/W), and ART White (SAMPEA-13/Ife-98-12)—to determine their adaptability and performance under field conditions with minimal inputs. The experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Botanical Garden, University of Benin, using a Completely Randomized Design. Each variety was planted on two ridges under identical low-input conditions, with data collected on germination, vegetative growth, nodulation, and yield attributes. Parameters measured included stem diameter and length, number of leaves, branches, nodules, pods, and seeds per pod. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and mean separation at 5 % significance. Results showed clear varietal differences in morphological performance. Cultivar 1 (ART White) produced the highest average number of pods (14.25 ± 4.23) and seeds per pod (≈ 14.6), while Cultivar 2 (BBT Brown) recorded the longest stems (142.37 ± 9.23 cm) and peduncles (29.84 ± 5.50 cm). Cultivar 3 (BBT White) had the lowest pod count but comparable stem length (140.45 ± 10.71 cm). Leaf number and pod length differed significantly among varieties (p < 0.05). Overall, the improved cultivars exhibited distinctive morphological adaptations, with ART White showing superior reproductive potential under low-management conditions. These findings provide baseline data for varietal selection and breeding programs aimed at enhancing cowpea productivity in resource-limited farming systems.

The co-infection of malaria parasites and helminths is common in the tropics. Their pathogenicity lies in the infectivity of parasites and their modulation of the host immune system. This study aimed to generate epidemiological data of malaria and helminths in apparently healthy humans in a rural population in Bayelsa State; determine the serum concentration of Interleukin-4, Interferon-gamma -IFN-γ, Macrophage Inflammatory protein-MIP-β/CCL-4 and Eotaxin-3 /CCL 26 in healthy volunteers infected with malaria and helminths and their values after treatment. Two sets of data; malaria and helminths were generated from school and community based study, carried out between May 2016 and July 2018 in four rural communities- Otuegela, Immiringi, Otuesega and Ibelebiri in which there was ongoing mass deworming and anti-malaria administration. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethical Committee, College of Medicine, University of Benin, Nigeria (CMS/REC/2017/016). From every participant, blood and stool samples were collected; from 1441 volunteers, age-range 4 – 80 years. Diagnosis of helminths, malaria parasites were by standard procedures. The body mass index (BMI) of children was determined. Measurement of haemoglobin concentration and blood cells was automated (ABX Micros 60). Infected volunteers were treated specifically and after 18 days the second round of blood and stool samples were collected from treated participants only and analyzed. Immune molecules were measured by ELISA (PeproTech, USA) protocols. Data were analysed with the "R" Programme (version 2016) and a P-value of < 0.001 was considered significant.  The prevalence of helminths was: community-based, 26.0% and school children, 30.3%. Helminths identified in communities were Schistosoma intercalatum (10.4%), Schistosoma mansoni (4.2%), and a variant of Schistosoma intercalatum (0.2%); Ascaris lumbricodes (6.5%),), Trichuris trichiura (2.5%), hookworm (2.0%) and Taenia spp (0.2%). In school-based, Ascaris lumbricoides had 10.5%, Schistosoma mansoni 8.0 %, Schistosoma intercalatum 5.0% and Strongyloides 1.0% ; Trichuris trichiuria 1.8%, hookworm 1.6%, Taenia species 1.3%. In co-infection, 18.0% prevalence was obtained in the community and 10.5% in schools. The prevalence of malaria parasites in community study was 2742.0%. In a School-based study, the prevalence of malaria disease was 53.0% and 32.1% for first and second school-based study, respectively. Using Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Plasmodium falciparum was identified at 205 bp and Plasmodium ovale at 787 bp. The mean values, before and after treatment for Eotaxin (5718pg/ml/ 5725pg/ml) and MIP-β (344.1pg/ml/642.6pg/ml) were close and had numerous outlines. The concentration of IFN-γ and IL-4 were higher in all categories of infection than after treatment but with no significant difference. IFN-γ had the highest mean expression (135.6pg/ml) in the coinfection group and least (59.8pg/ml) in the population infected by intestinal helminths only. The value for Plasmodium falciparum was 84.0pg/ml. Similarly, the expression of IL-4 was highest (68.8pg/ml) in co-infection and lowest (40.3 pg/ml) in helminths infected group. The value of IL-4 for those infected by Plasmodium falciparum only was 61.0pg/ml. There In all study groups, IFN-γ and IL-4 were positively correlated before and after treatment; which was significant (r = 0.60) in those infected by P. falciparum only. After treatment, the correlation between IFN-γ and IL-4 was significant in those who were treated for malaria infection (r = 0.7) and those who were treated for co-infection of P. falciparum and helminths (r = 0.6). There was a decrease in values of platelets, White Blood Cells and granulocytes during infection but platelet count was reduced after anthelminthic treatment and increased after anti-malaria administration. The ova of 7 species of helminths were diagnosed in this study. Treatment lowered the concentration of IFN-γ and IL-4 immune molecules in serum, which is of clinical relevance. This study proves that sub-clinical infection brought about a low concentration of IL-4/IFN-γ, altering their counter-inflammatory properties. They rather depended on each other positively. The clinical consequence of IL-4 suppression is the disability in class switch: antibody production is suppressed, resulting in susceptibility to infectious diseases. The presence of P.ovale in co-infection with P. falciparum is significant for the epidemiology and control of malaria disease in the Niger Delta.

Cyanide poisoning poses a significant threat to cardiovascular health, leading to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors such as dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. Ocimum gratissimum (OG), commonly known as scent leaf, is a medicinal plant with potential cardioprotective properties. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the ethanol extract of OG on CVD risk factors in cyanide-induced rabbits. Fifteen rabbits were randomly divided into five groups: group one(drug), group two(ethanol extract), group three(ethanol extract), group four (cyanide), group five(control). Cyanide-induced rabbits were orally administered OG extract and drug (Sylimarin) for 21 days. Blood samples and organs(heart) were collected for biochemical analysis of CVD risk factors, including total protein profile, cholesterol levels, arterogenic coefficient, cardiac risk ratio, vitamin, and nitric oxides concentration. Certain experimental groups displayed promising changes, such as elevated HDL- C levels, improved endothelial function, and enhanced cardiac muscle function, others exhibited adverse alterations in lipid profile and endothelial function. These findings underscore the complex nature of herbal remedies and emphasize the importance of empirical validation to ensure their safety and efficacy in treating cardiovascular diseases.