physicochemical

Kola (Cola nitida) leaves are widely known for their ethnobotanical uses, yet their by- products remain underexplored as sources of bioactive compounds for environmental applications. Fermentation of plant-derived substrates often enhances their physicochemical profile, making them useful in biostimulation processes that support microbial activity for pollutant degradation. Against this background, this study investigated Cola nitida whey, focusing on its extraction, fermentation behavior, and nutrient composition, with the aim of assessing its potential application as a bioremediant. Fresh kola leaves were processed through washing, grinding, boiling, and filtration to obtain whey, which was digested with nitric acid and subjected to physicochemical analysis. Parameters evaluated included pH, electrical conductivity (EC), moisture content, total organic matter (TOM), total organic carbon (TOC), nitrate, phosphate, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Results showed dynamic changes across the five- week fermentation period. pH decreased initially from 5.29 in Week 1 to 5.18 in Week 3 before rising to 6.01 in Week 5, while EC steadily increased from 1595.50 to 2129.50 µS/cm, reflecting ionic release. Moisture content rose from 92.08% to 94.09%, whereas TOM and TOC increased overall, with TOM ranging from 54.06 to 106.55% and TOC from 31.36 to 61.80%. Nutrient levels indicated progressive mineralization: nitrate rose from 174.16 to 1152.36 mg/kg, phosphate from 411.67 to 971.81 mg/kg, nitrogen from 39.56 to 261.06 mg/kg, and phosphorus from 122.75 to 295.46 mg/kg. Potassium fluctuated but stabilized at 2.55 mg/kg by Week 5. These findings suggest that kola-leaf whey develops enriched organic and mineral content during fermentation, creating a nutrient-rich medium favorable for microbial proliferation. The shift toward near-neutral pH at later stages further supports microbial activity, while the elevated nitrate and phosphate levels highlight its suitability as a low-cost, plant-derived stimulant for bioremediation, although regulated application is recommended to minimize eutrophication risks.

Coliform bacteria contamination in river water is a significant public health concern, as it often indicates the presence of fecal pollution, which may harbor pathogenic microorganisms. Coliform bacteria, especially Escherichia coli, are commonly used as indicator organisms for water quality assessment due to their presence in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and, therefore, in their waste. This study was aimed at assessing the physicochemical and coliform bacteria in Ikpoba river in Benin City, Edo state. The physicochemical result obtained in this study showed that pH was at 5.0, as against the WHO limit of 6.5-8.5 thus making the water dangerous for consumption by humans and aquatic lives. The electronic conductivity of the water was recorded at 62, against the WHO limit of 1500, this was below the permissible limit. turbidity was at 6.37. Copper, zinc, chromium and cadmium result in this study were 8.73, 26.45, 3.95, 0.042 respectively. The coliform bacteria count obtained in this study showed that the bacteria count ranged at 4.7 X 10 4± 2.00 cfu/ml -7.7 X 10 4± 1.00 cfu/ml for all sections of the river. Using the standard microbial method which include cultural, morphological and biochemical characterization, the isolates obtained in this study were Escherichia coli, Citrobacter sp, Enterobacter sp, Serratia sp and Klebsiella sp. The presence of coliform bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Serratia, and Klebsiella in river water can have serious health and ecological effects. The presence of coliform bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Serratia, and Klebsiella, along with heavy metals in river water, poses a multifaceted threat to both human health and aquatic ecosystems.

This study evaluated the physicochemical and microbiological quality of borehole water from five student-dominated areas in Ekosodin Village, Benin City, to assess compliance with World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS)
guidelines. Standard analytical methods were employed to determine key physicochemical parameters, major ions, heavy metals, and microbial indicators Most physicochemical parameters, including turbidity (0.98 - 4.38 NTU), TDS (10.32 - 92.27 mg/L), Conductivity (16.13 - 144.10 µS/cm), hardness (0.15 - 2.90 mg/L), sulphates (3.0 - 4.61 mg/L), nitrates (2.87- 8.94 mg/L), and nitrites(0.01- 0.02 mg/L), were within permissible limits of 5NTU, 500mg/L, 1000µS/cm, 500mg/L, 250mg/L, <50mg/L and 3mg/l respectively. However, pH values at Edo Street (5.77) were below the recommended range of 6.5-8.5, and water temperatures exceeded the 25 °C guideline in most locations. Concentrations of cadmium (up to 0.03 mg/L) and lead (up to 0.03 mg/L) exceeded permissible limits (0.003 mg/L and 0.01 mg/L, respectively), suggesting potential toxicological risks. Microbiological assessment indicated elevated heterotrophic bacterial counts (3.00– 76 CFU/mL) and fecal contamination, making the water unsuitable for direct consumption. The findings from this study underscore the need for regular water quality monitoring, appropriate treatment measures, and improved borehole management to safeguard student health in Ekosodin Village.

Clays have been utilized for centuries across various cultures for their therapeutic and medicinal properties, ranging from wound healing to antibacterial applications, owing to their adsorptive and chemical properties that inhibit pathogens and support tissue regeneration. This study was aimed at investigating the physicochemical and antibacterial properties of Okpepe clay, Uzala black clay and the combined effect of both clays on clinical isolates against some clinical isolates. Clay samples were processed into suspensions, physicochemical analysis was carried out to determine the pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), heavy metal content and organic carbon. Uzala black clay had a higher pH (7.85), CEC (25.90 cmol/kg), and organic matter (2.80 %), while OKC was more acidic (pH 6.12) with higher EC and TDS. Antibacterial activity was tested against some clinical isolates such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus spp. using agar well diffusion at concentrations of 100 %, 75 %, 50 % and 25 %. Uzala black clay demonstrated superior antibacterial activity with larger zones of inhibition and lower MIC values (6.25 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus) compared to Okpekpe clay. Uzala black clay was bactericidal (MBC/MIC ≤ 2) against all isolates, while Okpekpe clay was often bacteriostatic. The clay combination (1:1) showed a remarkable synergistic effect, particularly at 75 % concentration, producing the largest zones of inhibition (42 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Uzala Black Clay is a potent, broad-spectrum bactericidal agent. The combination with Okpekpe Clay results in a significant synergistic enhancement of antibacterial efficacy. Its efficacy against clinical isolates, including those resistant to common antibiotics, highlights its potential as a source for developing new antimicrobial strategies against drug-resistant bacteria and its novel antimicrobial strategies

Clays have been utilized for centuries across various cultures for their therapeutic and medicinal properties, ranging from wound healing to antibacterial applications, owing to their adsorptive and chemical properties that inhibit pathogens and support tissue regeneration. This study was aimed at investigating the physicochemical and antibacterial properties of Okpepe clay, Uzala black clay and the combined effect of both clays on clinical isolates against some clinical isolates. Clay samples were processed into suspensions, physicochemical analysis was carried out to determine the pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), heavy metal content and organic carbon. Uzala black clay had a higher pH (7.85), CEC (25.90 cmol/kg), and organic matter (2.80 %), while OKC was more acidic (pH 6.12) with higher EC and TDS. Antibacterial activity was tested against some clinical isolates such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus spp. using agar well diffusion at concentrations of 100 %, 75 %, 50 % and 25 %. Uzala black clay demonstrated superior antibacterial activity with larger zones of inhibition and lower MIC values (6.25 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus) compared to Okpekpe clay. Uzala black clay was bactericidal (MBC/MIC ≤ 2) against all isolates, while Okpekpe clay was often bacteriostatic. The clay combination (1:1) showed a remarkable synergistic effect, particularly at 75 % concentration, producing the largest zones of inhibition (42 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Uzala Black Clay is a potent, broad-spectrum bactericidal agent. The combination with Okpekpe Clay results in a significant synergistic enhancement of antibacterial efficacy. Its efficacy against clinical isolates, including those resistant to common antibiotics, highlights its potential as a source for developing new antimicrobial strategies against drug-resistant bacteria and its novel antimicrobial strategies.

This study was carried out in the southwestern part of Nigeria in Ondo State which lies within Latitude 7° 09’ 50.1” and 7° 12’ 20.6”N, and Longitude 5° 13’ 30.5”E and 5° 14’ 30.1”, with the aim of assessing the physical, microbial and chemical parameters of the groundwater. Random sampling technique was employed in obtaining water samples from both the surface and groundwater in the study area. A sterilized one liter plastic bottle was used to collect water samples and were immediately transported to the laboratory for physico-chemical and microbial analysis. A total of ten (10) water samples were collected; seven (7) groundwater samples and three (3) river samples. The physicochemical parameters determined and values obtained are as follows: Electrical conductivity ranged 300 and 960us/cm, Temperature 25.00 to 25.01℃, pH of 6.6-9.2 with a mean value of 6.9, TDS shows a mean valve of 25.69mg/l, COD from 5-18.4 mg/liter with mean value of 10.65mg/liter, Turbidity ranged 1.5 to 6.0 NTU with mean valve of 1.03NTU, Cl- 106.50 to 426.00mg/l, SO42- 0.41 to 2.87 mg/l, TSS shows a mean value of 0.411mg/l, TS 1.33 to 4.33 mg/l, NO3- 23.73 to 41.48mg/l, Mg ranged from 0.42 to 0.67 mg/liter which is within the WHO limit with mean valve of 0.41mg/l, Ca 0.10 to 0.41 mg/l, HCO3- 7.00 to 22.00mg/l, Na ranged from 2.8 to 3.9 mg/liter with mean value of 1.47mg/litre, K 0.41 to 1.20 mg/l, Mn 0.01 to 0.11 mg/l, Fe 0.01 to 0.02 mg/l, Zn 0.01 to 0.65 mg/l, PO4- 0.07 mg/l for all locations. Pb showed a mean value of 0. 011mg/litre. Result of analysis revealed that the ground and surface water in the study area appears to be generally potable, due to concentration of heavy metals being mostly under/within the WHO standard regulation. The pH, salinity and electrical conductivityin the study area was moderate. The colour for some samples were brownish – colourless. The presence of microbial organisms in water is from sewages, septic tanks, and animal faeces. The surface water found within the study area is Ofuso River. The water quality in the study area is generally potable.

Background: Herbal teas, also known as tisanes, are beverages prepared by infusing plants or plant parts such as seeds, bark, leaves, flowers, dried nuts, fruits, and grasses into hot water, producing a distinct taste with various health benefits. Insufficient comparative analysis exists for commonly consumed herbal teas in Nigeria, regarding antioxidant activity, organoleptic, and physicochemical parameters. The purpose of this study is to conduct an in vitro evaluation of organoleptic, physicochemical, and antioxidant properties of selected herbal teas. Method: Ten herbal tea brands (Ginseng tea, Adams Moringa tea, Organic Immune System Booster, 3 Ballerina Tea, Legend Tea and Herbs, Qualitea, Top Tea, Lipton, Costa Tea, and Richmond) were selected from supermarkets and local markets in Edo state, Nigeria. The selected herbal teas were assessed for their organoleptic and physicochemical properties (pH, moisture content, and specific gravity). In the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assay, the absorbance at 517 nm of the herbal teas brewed at different temperatures (95, 28, and 10℃) was determined using an ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The percentage inhibition was calculated, and the results were recorded. Result: The organoleptic properties of the herbal tea brew were fresh and within acceptable sensory limits. The pH determination shows that the herbal teas have pH values within the acidic range (<7), from 4.83 to 6.03. From the test carried out, the moisture content ranged from 3.4% to 8.5% (<10%). The specific gravity determination showed that the teas have specific gravity similar to that of water (1.000 g/mL), ranging from 0.92 to 1.02 g/mL. The DPPH radical scavenging assay shows that the percentage inhibition of the teas brewed at 95℃ ranged from 0 to 83.46%. The percentage inhibition of the teas brewed at 28℃ ranged from 59.04 to 82.02%, and the percentage inhibition of teas brewed at 10℃ ranged from 65.52 to 84.62%. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the analyzed herbal teas met the basic quality requirements. The majority of the herbal teas exhibited high antioxidant activity (high percentage inhibition) when brewed at lower temperatures. Costa tea did not show activity at 95℃.

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.

Background: The stability of pharmaceutical suspensions depends on their rheological properties, which are influenced by the type and concentration of suspending agents. This study evaluated and compared the rheological properties and performance of various suspending agents in ibuprofen suspension formulations. Methodology: Ten suspending agents Chitosan, Sodium Alginate, NaCMC, HPMC, HEC, Carbopol, CMEC, MC, Eudragit L-100, and PVP, were prepared using appropriate solvents. Eudragit L-100 was dissolved in ethanol, HEC, HPMC, and Carbopol in hot water, Chitosan in 1% H₂SO₄, while others were dispersed in distilled water. Each was evaluated for pH,
density, and viscosity. Six agents (NaCMC, CMEC, Sodium Alginate, MC, HPMC, and Carbopol) were selected to formulate ibuprofen suspensions, assessed for pH, viscosity, and sedimentation rate at ambient temperature. Results: All suspending agents produced formulations with acceptable pH (4.1–5.9). Viscosity increased with polymer concentration; Carbopol and NaCMC at 1.0% formed gel like systems, while0.5%gave smooth, pourable suspensions. Sedimentation tests showed the control settled rapidly, whereas Carbopol and NaCMC formulations exhibited the highest stability with uniform sedimentation over seven days. Conclusion: All agents improved suspension stability, though performance varied with concentration. Carbopol and NaCMC at 0.5% provided the best balance between viscosity and pourability, making them most suitable for ibuprofen suspensions

Background: Herbal products, typically derived from plant sources, are often perceived as safer
alternatives and are widely used for their therapeutic and antioxidant benefits. This study will help to determine physicochemical and antioxidant properties of some selected liquid herbal products. Methods: Seven selected liquid herbal products (Mojeaga herbal remedy, Goodwill's herbal mixture, pro-life herbal remedy malaria & Typhoid, Goko cleanser, Ganacin G-7 ulcer solution, Evaking herbs ulcer & pile removal and orijin bitter) were obtained from various pharmacies throughout Edo State, Nigeria. Samples underwent sensory evaluation, followed by measurements of specific gravity, pH, viscosity, and antioxidant properties through DPPH radical scavenging activity using spectrophotometric analysis at 517 nm wavelength. Results: The organoleptic properties evaluation of the products revealed that most of the samples had a very strong characteristics odor, except Mojeaga and Goodswill that have aromatic scent, they
all taste bitter except Ganacin and Evakings herbs that were sweet and tasteless. In terms of color, majority of the products showed deep brown coloration, while Ganacin and goko cleanser appeared moudy and dark. The specific gravity ranges from (0.72 to 1.83 g/mL). The pH analysis showed that all products were acidic (ranging from 3.10 to 6.96). All seven herbal products exhibited high viscosity which ranges from (2805 to 5748 cp). The antioxidant assay indicated that all the products contain antioxidant which ranges from (39.13% to 65.22%). Conclusion: The findings suggest that most of the evaluated herbal products possess notable
antioxidant properties and favorable physicochemical characteristics. These attributes act
synergistically to enhance product stability and reduce the risk of degradation or contamination
during storage. Moreover, the antioxidant potential of these formulations may contribute to
protection against infections and minimize adverse effects when used by patients.