Indexing

Abstract: Background: Local storage and preservative practices of tapped oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) sap notably called “palm wine” do not prevent its fermentation and thus increase its alcoholic contents. Yet, palm wine is still chronically consumed even to toxic dimensions. Aim: This study aims at evaluating the effects of the sub-acute administration of fermented Elaeis guineensis Sap (palm wine) on the cerebellum of the brain using adult wistar rats. Methodology: Freshly tapped palm wine (Elaeis guineensis Sap) was diluted with 50% clean tap water, and allowed to ferment at room temperature for 24 hours before being administered to the rats. Twenty five (25) healthy male wistar rats (average weight = 200g) were divided into five groups (n=5). Group A served as the normal controls and received only distilled water daily. Groups B, C, D, and E were received increasing volumes of fermented palm wine via oral routes in increasing progressions (1ml, 2ml, 4ml, and 8ml respectively). The experimental procedure lasted for 14 days. 24 hours after their last administration, the rats were sacrificed under ketamine (100mg/ml) as anesthesia. Each brain masse was carefully harvested, and each cerebellum was isolated for histological analysis and stained with Cresyl Fast Violet and also Hematoxylin and Eosin. Results: Treated groups showed progressive dose-related injuries evidenced by fatty change, intracytoplasmic inclusions, vacuolation of purkinje cells, focal areas of necrosis and focal areas of microcystic spaces relative to the untreated control group. Conclusion: Treatment with increasing doses of fermented Elaeis guineensis Sap (palm wine) demonstrated clear dose-dependent deleterious effectson the histology of the cerebellum of adult wistar rats.

Keywords: Elaeis guineensis, Fermentation, Alcohol, Cerebellum.

Title: EFFECTS OF SUB-ACUTE ADMINISTRATION OF FERMENTED ELAEIS GUINEENSIS SAP (PALM WINE) ON THE CEREBELLUM OF ADULT WISTAR RATS

Author: Christian Chiemeka Ozor, Chike Ikechukwu Patrick Anibeze, Godson Emeka Anyanwu

International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)

ISSN 2349-7823

Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025

Page No: 52-58

Paper Publications

Website: www.paperpublications.org

Published Date: 31-December-2025

Abstract: Epidemiological surveillance of microbial and physicochemical contamination in drinking water is important for monitoring the quality of water available nationwide. Thus resulting in targeted initiatives to aid the health and well-being of residents. This research aimed at detecting the main drinking water sources used by households in different states in Nigeria and the level of E. coli contamination in water facilities per state in Nigeria.

Data was obtained from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources: Water Sanitation, and Hygiene National Outcome Routine Mapping for the years 2019 and 2021. Selected water sources were: piped (water piped directly into dwelling), Sachet water, Borehole, and surface water (ie, river, stream, dam, lake, etc.)

Lagos was observed to have the highest uncontested household use of sachet water at a level of over 50% while other states were below 30%. Of the selected forms of drinking water sources, the highest used in households across states in Nigeria is borehole, with 21 states out of 36 having over 30% household usage. Followed by surface water: stream, river, etc. 

For both years combined, 6 states showed 100% E. coli positive results, most of which were Northern states.  Only Kwara state was observed to record 100% E. coli negative results in 2019. Though 2021 showed a national improvement as 6 more states joined in having 100% E. coli negative results. A number of states had unresolved results with respect to E. coli contamination in water facilities.

The study identified geographic inequalities with respect to the accessibilities of improved drinking water sources amongst Nigerian states. Also, the observed 100% E. coli contamination of water facilities gives an inclination of the possibility of other microbial and physicochemical contaminants. This could pose a disease risk to residents. Confirming the necessity for targeted policies and metrics that reach the most marginalized population in states with high surface water use and E. coli contaminated water facilities 

Keywords: Epidemiological surveillance, microbial and physicochemical contamination, drinking water.

Title: Epidemiological surveillance of microbial contamination in water facilities amongst Nigerian states

Author: Olufunmilayo A. Mohammed, Eguono Esther Anomohanan, Perezimor Etifa, Augustina Okuwe Emokhare, Wesley Daniel Nafarnda

International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)

ISSN 2349-7823

Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025

Page No: 44-51

Paper Publications

Website: www.paperpublications.org

Published Date: 31-December-2025

Abstract: Chronic alcohol consumption leads to oxidative stress and hepatic dysfunction. Natural antioxidants from plant sources such as Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) seeds may protect against such damage through free radical scavenging and membrane-stabilizing actions (Osna et al., 2017; Harjumäki et al., 2021). This study evaluated the hepatoprotective potential of aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus seed (AECL) on alcohol-induced liver toxicity in Wistar rats. Thirty adult male Wistar rats (130–150 g) were divided into five groups (n = 6): Group I (normal control) received feed and water only; Group II (alcohol control) received 1 mL ethanol daily for 2 weeks; Group III (extract control) received AECL 500 mg/kg only; Group IV received ethanol + AECL 500 mg/kg; and Group V received ethanol + AECL 1000 mg/kg. Treatments were given orally for 6 weeks. Serum ALT, AST, ALP, and total protein were assayed. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with LSD post-hoc test (p ≤ 0.05). Alcohol exposure significantly increased (p < 0.05) ALT, AST, and ALP, while total protein decreased. Co-administration of AECL (500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg) significantly reversed these alterations toward normal. The higher dose produced effects comparable to control. Aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus seed protects against alcohol-induced liver injury, likely via antioxidant and membrane-stabilizing mechanisms.

Keywords: Citrullus lanatus, hepatotoxicity, ethanol, liver enzymes, antioxidant, Wistar rat.

Title: Hepatoprotective Effects of Aqueous Extract of Citrullus lanatus Seed on Alcohol-Induced Liver Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Author: Afuberoh Francis Chukwudi, Eyeghre Onoriode Akpoghene, Anyaogu Charles Chinemeze, Okoye Ogochukwu Fidelis, Darlington Victor Nweze, Okonkwo Ifeoma Rita, Akpudo Genevieve Chiemelie

International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)

ISSN 2349-7823

Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025

Page No: 37-43

Paper Publications

Website: www.paperpublications.org

Published Date: 17-December-2025

Abstract: This study investigated microphytobenthos distribution at the Down-stream Area in Taylor Creek, Niger Delta, Nigeria from May to October 2022. Samples of microphytobenthos were obtained from four sites at the down-stream of Taylor Creek using Van Veen grab under the topmost strata of the sediments in the water. Microphytobenthos samples were conserved in 2% formaldehyde and were observed with a microscope and identified using microphytobenthos illustration field guide and Sedgwick-Rafter counting chamber was used to estimate the microphytobenthos species. The result showed that a total of 180 microphytobenthos, comprising of 13 individuals belonging to 4 taxonomic group were identified namely; Bacillariophyta, Cyanophyta, Chrysophyta and Chlorophyta were identified. Bacillariophyta had 6 species with Surirella flumiensis (52) having the highest representation and Gyrosigma scalproides the lowest representation with 3 each, Cyanophyta 3 species with Oscillatora labyrinthiforn (20) constituting the highest number and Noctiluca scintillans (3) the lowest number. Chlorophyta 3 species with Chloserium moniliferum (27) having the highest number and Chlorella vulgaris (10) having the lowest number. Bacillariophyta was the most dominant family in all the four sites examined. The microphytobenthos composition at the different sits indicated that site 1 (102) recorded the greatest species number of microphytobenthos and site 4 (14) the smallest species number. Based on the substantial role of microphytobenthos in the aquatic ecosystems. It is therefore recommended that more recurrent studies of microphytobenthos be conducted at the down-stream area of Taylor Creek in order to reveal more trends of the status of microphytobenthos distribution of the creek.

Keywords: Distribution, Microphytobenthos, Niger Delta.

Title: Microphytobenthos Distribution at the Down-stream Area of Taylor Creek, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Author: Kwen, K., Obomunu. B., Aghoghovwia O.A., Dickson R D.

International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)

ISSN 2349-7823

Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025

Page No: 29-36

Paper Publications

Website: www.paperpublications.org

Published Date: 06-November-2025

Abstract: This study evaluated the performance of Boma Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) across varied ecological zones in Narok County, Kenya. The research aimed to assess how different ecological conditions influence the growth and productivity of Boma Rhodes grass, an important pasture species widely used in Kenya for hay production and livestock feeding.

The study was conducted across 27 sites distributed within three ecological zones, representing distinct variations in altitude, rainfall, and soil conditions. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was adopted to ensure reliable comparison of growth performance indicators, including plant height, dry matter yield, and crude protein content. Standard agronomic practices were maintained across all sites, and nitrogen fertilizer was applied uniformly to enhance grass establishment and growth consistency.

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and pairwise comparisons to determine performance differences across zones. Results indicated that Boma Rhodes grass exhibited significant variation (p < 0.05) among ecological zones, with the mid-altitude sites showing superior plant height and dry matter yield. Variations in crude protein content were also observed, reflecting the influence of ecological conditions on forage nutritive value.

The study concludes that ecological factors significantly affect the productivity and quality of Boma Rhodes grass, emphasizing the need for site-specific management practices to optimize yield potential across different zones in Narok County.

Keywords: Boma Rhodes grass, Chloris gayana, ecological zones, dry matter yield, crude protein, Narok County.

Title: PERFORMANCE OF BOMA RHODES GRASS (Chloris gayana) ACROSS VARIED ECOLOGICAL ZONES IN NAROK COUNTY, KENYA

Author: SAMMY KIMAGUT

International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)

ISSN 2349-7823

Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025

Page No: 15-28

Paper Publications

Website: www.paperpublications.org

Published Date: 03-November-2025

Abstract: This study evaluated the presence and concentration of aflatoxins in home-packed meals consumed by primary school pupils in Benin City, Nigeria. Eighteen (18) food samples were collected from five (5) private schools and analyzed using standard microbiological and chromatographic methods. Fungal counts ranged from 2.0 × 10³ CFU/ml to 4.5 × 10⁴ CFU/ml, with predominant isolates including Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, A. aculeatus, and Penicillium citrinum. Aflatoxin types B₁, B₂, G₁, and G₂ were detected at concentrations between 0.71 and 1.36 μg/kg, and total aflatoxin levels ranged from 3.20 to 4.84 μg/kg. Although these levels were within Nigerian safety limits, the results indicate potential chronic exposure risks for schoolchildren. Regular aflatoxin surveillance and improved hygiene in food preparation are recommended to ensure the safety of home-packed meals.

Keywords: Aflatoxin, Aspergillus, Benin City, food safety, mycotoxin contamination, pupils.

Title: Aflatoxin Assay of Home-Packed Meals of Selected Pupils in Benin City

Author: Nneka Godsgift-Ofou, Maduka Ndukwe

International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)

ISSN 2349-7823

Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025

Page No: 5-14

Paper Publications

Website: www.paperpublications.org

Published Date: 29-October-2025

Abstract: Many traditionally known medicinal plants studied in the last few decades have been reported to possess various medicinal properties such as anticancer activity, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, antifungal and hepato-protective activities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of dose- dependent Jatropha tanjorensis (chaya) leaf on biochemical parameters of male wistar rats. Total of  forty (40) male wister rats weighing 130-150g (about 12 weeks old)  were  grouped into five groups of 8 rats each, (group  A to E), Group A served as negative control ( just water and feed only),while Group B (Low dose of Jatropha tanjorensis,200mg/kg),Group C (Medium dose of Jatropha tanjorensis ,400mg/kg), Group D, (High dose of Jatropha tanjorensis, 600mg/kg), Group E (Positive control ,just folic acid drugs and feed only). Biochemical parameters were accessed. The study findings revealed that the aqueous extract of Jatropha tanjorensis leaves, when administered to the experimental rats, showed a significant decrease in serum creatine levels in treatment groups B, C, and D. As well as in AST, ALP and ALT levels increased in all the groups(P<0.05).

Keywords: Biochemical, Extract, Jatropha tanjorensis, Medicinal, Wistar rats.

Title: DOSE-DEPENDENT EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF JATROPHA TANJORENSIS (CHAYA) LEAF ON BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS IN MALE WISTER RATS

Author: Dim Catherine Nicholate, Ezeokafor Emmanuel Nonso, Enendu Angela Chika, Charles Chinemeze Anyaogu, Afuberoh Francis Chukwudi, Anyiam Kennedy Ekenedirichukwu, Okoye Ogochukwu Fidelis

International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)

ISSN 2349-7823

Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025

Page No: 1-4

Paper Publications

Website: www.paperpublications.org

Published Date: 06-October-2025