Raphia Hookeri Research Articles

EFFECT OF COOKING TIME ON BIOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF RAFFIA (RAFFIA HOOKERI) HEART CONSUMED AS VEGETABLE IN COTE DIVOIRE

Raffia (Raphia hookeri Mann & Wendl.) heart, a little-known vegetable, is usually eaten after cooking in some regions of the Cote dIvoire. The proximate composition of the fresh state and the effect of cooking time (15, 30 and 45 min) on biochemical parameters were investigated. The results show that fresh raffia heart contains nutrients such as proteins (14.53 ± 0.03 g/100g), lipids (2.60 ± 0.10 g/100g), total sugars (35.61 ± 0.13 g/100g) and phytochemicals, in particular total polyphenols (5.86 ± 0.38 g/100g), flavonoids (0.75 ± 0.20 g/100g) and tannins (1.93 ± 0.9 g/100g). It is also rich in fibre (23.30 ± 0.75 g/100g) and ash (12.60 ± 0.02 g/100g), which contain minerals. Cooking for 15 minutes did not affect the protein content (14.53 ± 0.04 g/100g), but the content of total polyphenols (8.23 ± 0.39 g/100g), lipids (3.60 g/100g) and energy (295.84 ± 3.96 kcal/100g) increased by 28.79%, 2.77% and 0.74% respectively. Conversely, fibre (22.80 ± 0.67 g/100g), flavonoids (0.54 ± 0.10 g/100g) and tannins (1.19 ± 0.13 g/100g) decreased by 2.14%, 28% and 38.34% respectively. Except for lipids, the values of other nutrients decreased after 30 and 45 minutes of cooking. The nutrient values of raffia hearts cooked for 15 minutes are high, which could help to meet the bodys needs. The heart of raffia hookeri traditional food resources is an important source of nutrients. The adoption of a good regeneration and domestication strategy could make Raffia hookeriavailable for large-scale food exploitation and as a source of financial returns.

Synthesis and Characterization of MnO2 nanoparticles mediated by Raphia hookeri seed

In this study, managanese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2-NP) was synthesized. Raphia hookeri seed was used as a bioreductant for the synthesis of MnO2-NPs. The biosynthesized MnO2-NPs was investigated for their reaction, structure and morphology. The MnO2-NPs was characterized using the UV-Visible spectrophotometry, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometry (FTIR), Energy Dispersive Spectrometry (EDX), Powdered X-ray Diffractometry (PXRD), Scanning electron microscpopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). UV-Visible spectra revealed that MnO2-NPs showed maximum 421nm respectively. FTIR results showed prominent reactive functional groups for hydroxyl (-OH) and carbonyl (-C=O). The EDX results revealed the elemental composition in percentages of the elements in the nanoparticles. PXRD revealled that the manganese dioxide nanoparticle is in a crystaline state. The morphology of the synthesized nanoparticle was found irregular and with porous surface for SEM. The average particle size of the nanoparticles as characterized by TEM was found to be 3.92 nm.

A Comparative Analysis of the Physicochemical Properties of Oils Extracted from Common Species of the Niger Delta <i>Raphia </i>Palm Fruits and <i>Cocos nucifera</i> Kernels

<i>Cocos nucifera</i> oil is one of the most valuable, expensive and globally consumed vegetable oils. In many nations including Nigeria, the demand for <i>Cocos nucifera</i> and its oils has outweighed the supply. Moreover, <i>Cocos nucifera</i> cultivation has been reported to cause negative environmental, climatic and social impacts. Hence the search for a suitable feedstock that can either be used in conjunction with or as a substitute to <i>Cocos nucifera</i> oils. In this study, oils were extracted from the mesocarp of common species of the Niger Delta <i>Raphia </i>palm fruits (<i>Raphia farinifera</i>, <i>Raphia hookeri</i> and <i>Raphia vinifera</i>) as wells as <i>Cocos nucifera</i> kernel. The prospects of using each of the <i>Raphia </i>palm oil as an alternative to <i>Cocos nucifera</i> oil in food, feeds, biofuels and oleochemicals industries were analysed based on the results of standard physiochemical properties analysis. The results of this study showed that most of the physiochemical properties of the oils extracted from common species of the Niger Delta <i>Raphia </i>palm fruits are comparable to those of <i>Cocos nucifera</i> oil and the standards set for food, feeds, biofuels and oleochemicals. However, the <i>Raphia</i> palm fruits oils are more suitable as alternatives to <i>Cocos nucifera</i> oil in the biofuels and oleochemicals sectors than in the food and feed sectors.

In-situ and Ex-situ synthesized activated carbons derived from Raphia hookeri Kernels for ibuprofen adsorption in wastewater

This study introduces an innovative approach to synthesizing activated carbon (AC) from Raphia hookeri kernels, optimizing its application for efficient ibuprofen removal from wastewater. By exploring two distinct activation pathways—in-situ and ex-situ—the research underscores the tailored performance of the resulting ACs. Comprehensive characterization included point-of-zero charge (pHpzc), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). BET analysis revealed surface areas of 260.932 and 273.863 m²g⁻¹ for in-situ and ex-situ ACs, respectively, emphasizing their high porosity. The adsorption efficiency was evaluated under various conditions: pH (2−10), adsorbent doses (0.05–0.15 g), contact times (20–200 min), and ibuprofen concentrations (2–10 mgL⁻¹). The ACs demonstrated robust performance in ibuprofen removal, with kinetic data aligning with the pseudo-second-order model. Notably, the in-situ AC exhibited heterogeneous surface and multilayer adsorption characteristics (KF = 13.94 mgg⁻¹), while the ex-situ AC showed monolayer adsorption behavior (qm = 23.14 mgg⁻¹). Both ACs maintained high capacities over multiple cycles, indicating effective regeneration and reuse, making them cost-efficient and sustainable for wastewater treatment. This study's innovation lies in systematically comparing activation pathways, offering a framework for customizing biomass precursors to enhance adsorption in wastewater management.

The efficiency of Raphia hookeri adsorbent in indigo carmine dye removal: Economy depth via chemometrics

The remediation of dye pollutants remains a concern in contemporary water management practices. Hence, the need for efficient and cost-effective techniques for dye removal from wastewater. In this study, the epicarp of Raphia hookeri fruits was treated with orthophosphoric acid for enhanced porosity and efficiency in the uptake of Indigo carmine dye (ICD). Treated Raphia hookeri fruit waste (RHPW) presented morphologically distributed pores as well as high porosity with Branneur-Emmet-Teller (BET) surface area of 945.43 m2/g. RHPW displayed functional groups suitable for adsorption. The maximum ICD uptake was observed at pH 5 while the maximum uptake (qmax) was 20.41 mg/g in the concentration range of 2–10 mg/L. Freundlich isotherm and Pseudo-second order kinetics well-described equilibrium and kinetics data respectively. This indicated a multilayered adsorption. The Dubinin-Radushkecich model energy value was 40.82 kJ/mol, indicating chemical adsorption. The ridge regression, the Lasso and the Elastic net statistical models were used to establish a positive relationship between the various adsorption operational parameters studied. Lasso provided the best result based on the estimated mean squared error. The RHPW-ICD adsorption system was more favorable at room temperature, as the removal efficiency decreased with temperature rise. The findings established Raphia hookeri fruit epicarp as an economical and sustainable precursor for the preparation of potent adsorbent for Indigo carmine dye removal. This can find possible application in wastewater treatment.

Adsorption of cyanide from Cassava wastewater using activated carbons derived from Raphia hookeri kernels: a comparison of in-situ and ex-situ activation

The rise in cyanide concentration in groundwater in many developing countries is linked to the indiscriminate discharge of cyanide-bearing wastewater from cassava processing industries. This research synthesized a super-active activated carbon (AC) from a novel biomass precursor, Raphia hookeri kernel, functionalized with phosphoric acid via in-situ and ex-situ methods. Morphological and functional characterizations were performed, and the influence of some key process variables on cyanide adsorption was also investigated for the two derived ACs to study the impact of the activation method used. The optimal conditions for cyanide adsorption for the in-situ and ex-situ–derived ACs were identified as pH 8, AC dose of 0.15 g, temperature of 40 °C, and initial cyanide concentration of 100 mgL−1 at different equilibrium times of 100 min and 120 min, respectively. The kinetic studies revealed that the pseudo-second-order kinetic model fitted the adsorption data better for the two ACs based on the high correlation coefficients (r2), suggesting that the adsorption process is chemisorption. The equilibrium studies showed that the in-situ-derived AC followed the Langmuir isotherm with a maximum adsorption capacity (qm) of 93.821 mgg−1 indicating monolayer adsorption for the in-situ-derived AC. The ex-situ-derived AC, however, followed the Sips isotherm with a maximum adsorption capacity (qm) of 79.381 mgg−1 indicating a heterogeneous surface for the ex-situ-derived AC. The ACs showed decreasing cyanide adsorption after five cycles but maintained significant adsorption capacity after desorption-adsorption cycles.

Oxidative Stress Markers Evaluation after Prolonged Administration of Aqueous Extract of Raphia Hookeri Fruit Pulp in Male Wistar Rats

The study investigated effect of prolonged administration of Raphia Hookeri fruit pulp on oxidative stress markers in male wistar rats. A total of 24 male wistar rats of weight ranging from 200g to 350g were used. The rats divided in 4 groups, 3 groups administered orally with doses of extract at 500mg/kg, 1000mg/kg and 2000mg/kg body weight while control group fed with feed and water for 28 days. The animals sacrificed, samples taken, laboratory test done for stress markers. Statistical analysis done at p<0.05, values expressed as SEM. Results showed Malondialdehyde (MDA) values for group 2(0.77 ± 0.32nm/ml), group 3(1.79 ± 0.73nm/ml) and group 4(3.35 ± 0.20nm/ml) while for group 1(Control group) MDA value is 4.10 ± 0.3nm/ml. Mean values for Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in treated groups (2-4) were 18.00 ± 1.0 units/ml, 29.50 ± 8.50units/ml, and 33.50 ± 37.25units/ml respectively and mean value for control group was 68.00 ± 4.0units/ml. Mean values for Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) in test groups (2-4) were 53.50 ± 10.50ng/ml, 63.50 ± 5.50ng/ml, and 82.50 ± 6.50ng/ml respectively. GPx value for control group was 94.00 ± 3.00ng/ml. There was a graded increase from low dose to high dose. All treated groups indicated marginally (P>0.05) reduced values of Percentage change in body weight when compared to the control group (Group 1). Elevated levels of MDA indicates an increased oxidative stress and lipid. Higher levels of SOD and Gpx. This research demonstrates the ability of Raphia Hookeri fruit pulp to decrease oxidative stress hence regular consumption is recommended.

Ameliorative effects and histological assessment of active fractions of ethanolic fruits extract of Raphia hookeri on AlCl3 induced toxicity in rats

Background: Aluminium chloride is a widely distributed element with a well-established toxicity. The study aimed at evaluating ameliorative effects of active fractions and ethanolic fruits extracts of Raphia hookeri on AlCl3-induced toxicity in male rats. The objectives included; determination of liver and kidney function biomarkers, lipid profile, histopathological assessment of the organs. Methods: A total of 110 healthy male rats weighing 180-200 g were grouped into 11 groups of 10 rats each. Group 1: Normal feed and water (normal control). Group 2: AlCl3 only. Group 3: 200 mg/kg b. w of vitamin C. Group 4 and 5: N-hexane fraction at 10 and 20 mg/kg b. w. Group 6 and 7: ethyl acetate fraction at 10 and 20 mg/kg b. w. Group 8 and 9: Aqueous fractions at 10 and 20 mg/kg b. w. Group10 and 11: Ethanol extract at doses of 200 mg/kg b. w and 400 mg/kg b. w. The treatment lasted for 21 days. Results: Results revealed a significant (p˂0.05) decreased in the activities of ALT, AST, ALP, TB, DB and TP. It further revealed a significant (p˂0.05) decrease in urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium and chloride. Also, a significant (p˂0.05) decrease in CHOL, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C was observed. Histopathological assessment of the liver and kidney tissues corroborated the observed changes in enzymes activities. Conclusions: The findings demonstrated ameliorative potentials of active fractions and ethanolic fruit extract of Raphia hookeri against hepatic and renal damage induced by AlCl3 in a dose and time dependent manner.

Indigenous Antidiabetic Medicinal Plants Used in Nigeria: A Review

Diabetes mellitus is among the most prevalent endocrine disease that causes morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. Traditional medical system has been used for the both prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus since ages. This paper reviewed the use of 35 Nigerian plants with putative anti-diabetic properties with the help of published literature. As per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), status of these species include Sterculia tragacantha, Newbouldia laevis, Solanum anomalum, Ficus exasperate, Raffia palm (Raphia hookeri) Azadirachta indica, Syzygium cumini, Terminalia catapp, Solanum macrocarpon, Petersianthus macrocarpus, Xylopia aethiopica, Costus aferker-gawl, Spondias mombin, Eucalyptus globulus Parkia biglobosa, Persea americana, Anacardium occidentale, Vernonia amygdalina as least concern. While the status of Hunteria umbellate and Vitex doniana are reported as threatened and Dacryodes edulis and Dennettia tripetala as vulnerable species. However, the status of Annona muricata, Chrysophyllum albidum, Citrus paradisi Macfad, Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) are not evaluated. The following species like Phyllanthus amarus, Phyllanthus niruri and Telfairia occidentalis are data deficient. Most of the species belonging to common families like Solanaceae, Anacardiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Annonaceae and Rutaceae. This review offers relevant information and recent scientific findings on the plants used to treat and manage diabetes in Nigeria. The cellular mechanisms through which these natural agents exert their protective and therapeutic effects on diabetes mellitus may include antioxidative stress, restricting the breakdown of glycogen, pancreatic β-cell regeneration, gluconeogenesis, anti-inflammatory and intracellular signals transduction pathways. This study concludes that indigenous medicinal herbs utilized in Nigeria have the potential to treat diabetes mellitus in Nigeria. Further studies are needed to discover potential drugs from these indigenous plants.

The Effect of Prolonged Consumption of Aqueous Extract of Raphia Hookeri Pulp Fruit on Selected Immune Parameters on Male Wistar Rats

This research aims to ascertain the effect of oral administration of a aqueous fruit extract of Raphia Hookeri on selected immune parameters in male wistar rats. The fruits were obtained from Emoh community in Abua/Odual L.GA, Rivers State, A total of 28 apparently healthy male rats weighing between 137-190g were divided into four groups, 7 rats in each group. Group 1 served as the control were given feed and water, group 2 given 500mg/kg, group 3 given 1000mg/kg, group 4 given 2000mg/kg of the extract for 28 days and blood samples collected. Laboratory test done and statistical analysisexpressed as mean± SEM using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS version 24).The result for IgA when compared the treated groups and control, there was slight variation in values but the result is not significant at P<0.05, there were marginal variation in IgE, when compared the treated groups with the control, the result showed no significant difference, there was a significant decrease in group 2 for IgM, also a slight variation in group 3 and 4 when compared with the control not statistically significant at P<0.05.Very plausible to state that there is no proportional effect of the aqueous extract on Immunoglobulin A (IgA), Immunoglobulin E (IgE). There was a significant decrease in Immunoglobulin in (IgM) level noticed in group2 and no significant difference in groups 3 and 4.The findings of the study has proven that prolonged consumption of Raphia Hookeri fruit extract boost immunity via immunoglobulins in male wistar rats.

Evaluation of the total antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol content, and flavonoids content in ethanolic fruit extract of Raphia hookeri and determination of the correlation between the antioxidant effects and the phytochemical contents

In order to assess the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total polyphenol content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) in ethanol fruit extract, as well as to ascertain the relationship between the antioxidant effects and phytochemical levels, this study looked at all three variables. 11 groups of 10 rats each were formed out of the experimental animals. All experimental subjects received a single intraperitoneal injection of aluminium chloride, 4.2 mg/kg body weight. Groups 4 and 5 received n-hexane fraction at 10 and 20 mg/kg b. w., respectively, whereas the other groups received various fractions and crude extracts of R. hookeri. Ethyl acetate fraction was given to groups 6 and 7 at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg b. w. Aqueous fractions at 10 and 20 mg/kg b. w. were given to groups 8 and 9. While groups 10 and 11 got ethanolic crude extract daily for 21 days at doses of 200 mg/kg b. w. and 400 mg/kg b. w., respectively. All groups that were given AlCl3 - induced TBARS showed a significant (P 0.05) increase in vivo antioxidant activity. However, in the liver, kidney, and testes of all treatment groups, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity considerably increased (P 0.05). This suggests that a significant portion of the antioxidant activity displayed by the ethanolic fruit extract of R. hookeri is due to flavonoids.

Liver Enzymes Functions Effect of Raphia Hookeri Fruit Pulp (Mesocarp) Extract in Male Wistar Rat’s Model

This study is aimed at determining selected liver enzymes functions effect of Raphia Hookeri fruits pulp extract in male wistar rats. A total of 32 apparently healthy rats of weights between 130g and 200g were involved. The rats were segregated into 4 groups, 3 groups administered orally with doses of extract at 500mg/kg, 1000mg/kg and 2000mg/kg body weight while control group fed with feed and water for 28 days. The animals were sacrificed, samples taken, laboratory test done for liver enzymes functions. SPSS version 21.0 (ANOVA) followed by Post-Hoc multiple comparison test used and p< 0.05, values were expressed as SEM for statistical analysis. Results showed AST level of groups 3 and 4 had significant decreases when compared to control and 500mg/kg group respectively. AST level of group 4 was significantly lower compared to that of group 3. ALT level indicated non-significant changes in treated groups when compared to both control and test groups. The ALP levels in groups 2 and 3 showed significantly raised levels of ALP when compared to that of control had significantly reduced level of ALP compared to that of group 2. Increased AST an indication to measure serum ALT to determine whether the increased AST is from liver Willard & twedt, 2012. So the decreased level AST has demonstrated ameliorative effect of the raphia hookeri fruit pulp on hepatic disease and any other disease that causes an increase AST in the body. Regular consumption of this fruit is recommended for those with liver issues.

Investigation of Physiologic Effect of Prolonged Consumption of Raphia Hookeri Fruits Pulp Aqueous Extract on Renal Functions of Male Wistar Rats

The aim of this study is to investigate the physiologic effect of prolonged consumption of Raphia Hookeri fruits pulp aqueous extract on renal functions of male wistar rats. A total of 32 male wistar rats of weight ranging from 130gram to 200grams were used. The extract was administered orally for each 4 groups except control (group1) for twenty-eight (28) days. Group 1 rats were given animal feed and water only, group 2 were given 500mg/kg body weight of the extract, group 3 were given 1000mg/kg body weight of the extract, group 4 were given 2000mg/kg body weight of extract. The statistical analysis done using mean and standard deviation, P value at ≤ 0.05 and results showed that the sodium ion levels in all the test groups were marginally raised when compared to group 1, potassium ion levels in all test groups had only non-significant variations when compared to both the control and test groups but in test groups were seen to be slightly reduced with respect to group 1. Groups 2, 3 and 4 indicated elevated bicarbonate ion but of all, it was most and significant in group 4 when compared to group 1. Chloride ion indicated non-uniform and non-significant changes when compared to both the control and test groups. Creatinine all indicates non-significant effects of the extract when compared to group 1. The increase observed in urea and creatinine indicates that kidney function would deteriorate as it prolongs which negatively alter the renal physiology of the male wistar rats.

Adsorptive removal of acetaminophen onto acid-modified Raphia hookeri fruit epicarp

Adsorptive removal of acetaminophen onto acid-modified Raphia hookeri fruit epicarp

Floral composition and diversity of the lagos coastal environment, South‐Western, Nigeria

AbstractThe present study investigates the floral diversity of the Lagos coastal environments by sampling 21 points using the quadrat method. The study revealed two major aquatic ecosystem types (mangrove and freshwater swamp) and recorded 125 species belonging to 108 genera and 49 families. While Alchornea cordifolia and Raphia hookeri were found as the most frequent, Acalypha crenata and Acrostichum aureum were the least abundant species. The highest and lowest species‐rich locations were Unilag (n = 125 species) and Abule Osun (n = 2 species), respectively. The vegetation structure of the LCE is dominated by herbaceous species. Our findings provide insights on the flora diversity of the LCE, and a guideline for the effective conservation of near‐threatened species such as Nauclea diderrichii and Mitragyna stipulosa in this coastal ecosystem is presented.

In Vivo Antiplasmodial Potential of the Leaf, Mesocarp, and Epicarp of the Raphia hookeri Plant in Mice Infected with Plasmodium berghei NK65.

Results The presence of alkaloids, fats and oils, phenolic, and flavonoids was detected via the qualitative test which was confirmed from the result obtained from the GC-MS chromatogram of ethanolic leaves extract. The GC-MS chromatogram of the constituents analogous to the twenty peaks was analyzed as follows: dodecanoic acid (1.94%), 2-undecanone (3.42%), hexadecanoic acid (44.84%), oleic acid (7.45%), octadecanoic acid (8.41%), narcissidine (2.38%), 1-dotriacontanol (2.38%), α-sitosterol (2.02%), and lupeol (1.42%). The total phenolics and flavonoids of 118 and 23.3702 mg/g were analyzed in the leaves extract. The leave extract exhibited inhibitory activity of 73.49% against free radicals which could lead to inflammation. The extracts and chloroquine-treated groups showed significant decrease in percentage parasitaemia with pronounced activity observed in chloroquine groups. Conclusion The curative and scavenging potencies of studied plant could be attributed to the metabolites analyzed and could guide the formulation of new pharmacophores against malaria infections and inflammations.

TEMPERATURE AND PH DEPENDENCE ACTIVITY OF CRUDE ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENASE ISOLATED FROM YEAST (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) OF Raphia hookeri AND Elaeis guineensis SAPS IN SELECTED LOCATIONS IN NIGER DELTA REGION OF NIGERIA

Alcohol dehydrogenase (E.C 1.1.1.1) is an enzyme that catalyses the reduction of acetaldehyde to ethanol during fermentation. In this study, the activity of crude alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) isolated from yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) of fresh Raphia hookeri and Elaeis guineensis palm wine(saps) from Niger Delta region (Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo and River States) was determined at a temperature range of 25-70°C and pH 5.0-9.0. The results showed that the activity of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) of yeasts from both R. hookeri and E. guineensis palm saps increased in all the states as the temperature increased from 25-30oC but decreased with further increase in temperature from 40-700C. The optimum activity of the enzyme was recorded at an optimum temperature 300C for all the locations, with yeast ADH from Delta State exhibiting the highest activity (0.00025?mole/min). The study also showed that at various temperatures (30 -70°C), the ADH activities of yeasts isolated from E. guineensis sap were higher than those from R. hookeri sap. The activity of yeast ADH from R. hookeri sap in all the locations increased with increasing pH till 8.0 and declined markedly at pH 9.0. A similar trend was observed in the activity of yeast ADH from E. guineensis sap in all the states.The optimum pH of the enzyme was found to be 8.0 in yeasts from both R. hookeri and E. guineensis saps across all the locations. It is concluded that ADH from S. cerevisae isolated from R. hookeri and E. guineensis saps in the Niger-Delta region of Nigeria could be applied by alcohol-producing industries for alcoholic fermentation at an optimum temperature 30°C and pH 8.0, especially ADH from E. guineensis sap yeasts.

Phytochemical characterization and antioxidant potential of Raphia hookeri mesocarp from Mebole (Gabon)

This study presents the results of antioxidant potential and phytochemical analysis of mesocarp fruits of Raphia hookeri. Phytochemical characterization was performed on extracts obtained by polarity gradient with the following solvents: ethyl acetate, acetone, and methanol. The evaluation of the antioxidant potential was performed with the aqueous extract. The results obtained indicate the abundance of alkaloids, polyphenols, triterpenes, and reducing compounds in each extract. However, coumarins, anthracene compounds, flavanones, and flavanols were absent in each extract. Leucoanthocyanins are present in the ethyl acetate extract and the methanolic extract. Flavones are present in the acetone extract and the methanolic extract. Free anthracenes, saponins, catechin tannins, and catechins were present in the methanolic extract. Gallic tannins were present in the acetone extract. The antioxidant activity results were very low: IC50 = 521.43 ± 1.02 µg/mL; AAI = 0.1 ± 0.0001.

Methylene Blue and Iron (II) Adsorption onto Raphia Hookeri Seed: A Comparative Equilibrium Isotherm Study

In this study, activated carbon prepared from Raphia hookeri seed was employed as an adsorbent to take up methylene blue (an organic ion-in-solution) and iron (II), a metal ion-in-solution. The biosorbent was prepared using chemical activation using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as an impregnating agent. Calibration was performed with a focus on the change in the adsorbate concentration. The equilibrium isotherms study was conducted by considering a range of sorbate concentrations, to determine the optimal conditions for the adsorption systems. The same sorbate volume (10 ml), and the same dosage (0.3g) of biosorbent were used for both adsorption processes. Linear analysis was used to compare the best-fitting isotherms. Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich models were tested. The highest coefficient of determination values (R2) for both iron (II) and Methylene blue was obtained from the Langmuir isotherm as 0.9266 and 0.9572, respectively, compared to values from the other isotherms tested – indicative of Langmuir isotherm’s superior fit. Estimated values of ‘separation factor’, KR, for Methylene blue (0.29457), however, was lower than that of iron (II) (0.42141) - an indication that the sorbent treats methylene blue better than iron (II), though both processes are feasible.

GC-MS metabolomics reveals dysregulated lipid metabolic pathways and metabolites in diabetic testicular toxicity: Therapeutic potentials of raffia palm (Raphia hookeri G. Mann & H. Wendl) wine

Ethnopharmacological relevanceRaffia palm (Raphia hookeri G. Mann & H. Wendl) wine (RPW) is a natural beverage obtained from the R. hookeri consumed for refreshment and medicinal purposes. For medicinal purposes, it is used singly or as macerating agent for other medicinal plants for the treatment of several diseases. AimThis study investigates the effect of Raffia palm wine on dysregulated lipid metabolic pathways in testicular tissues of type 2 diabetic (T2D) rats. MethodsRaffia palm wine (150 and 300 mg/kg bodyweight) was administered to two T2D groups respectively, another T2D group was not administered treatment and served as negative control, while metformin served as the standard drug. After 6 weeks of treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and the testes collected. After weighing, the organs were homogenized in 20% methanol/ethanol and centrifuged at 20,000 g to extract the lipid metabolites. ResultsGC-MS analysis of the supernatants revealed an alteration of the metabolites on induction of T2D, with concomitant generation of 10 metabolites. Raffia palm wine inhibited the T2D-generated metabolites while replenishing cholesterol and squalene levels, with concomitant generation of 7 and 8 metabolites for low and high dose treatment respectively. Pathway enrichment analysis of the metabolites revealed a decreased level of steroid biosynthesis and increased level of fatty acid biosynthesis. Raffia palm wine inactivated glycerolipid, fatty acid, and arachidonic acid metabolisms, fatty acid biosynthesis and fatty acid elongation in mitochondria pathways, and activated pathways for plasmalogen synthesis, mitochondrial beta-oxidation of long chain saturated fatty acids. ConclusionThe replenishment and generation of these metabolites and additional ones as well as activation of pathways involved in energy generation, phospholipids, antioxidant activity, steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis suggest a therapeutic effect of Raffia palm wine against hyperglycemic-induced testicular dysfunction.