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Effect of Two Different Drying Techniques on the Chemical Composition of Amaranthus Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Yahaya, Musbau Adekunle; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Ijezie, Augustina Elochukwu; Dambazau, Zainab Bello; Ngwu, Faith Amarachi
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstm.v2i3.7785

Abstract

Amaranth (Amaranthus), a widely consumed green leafy vegetable in Nigeria, is valued for its rich content of micronutrients, macronutrients, phytonutrients, and potential food-toxicants. This study evaluates the impact of two common drying methods—sun-drying and oven-drying—on the chemical composition of Amaranthus leaves. A total of 2.5 kg of fresh Amaranthus leaves was procured from Watt Market in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. After stalk removal, the leaves were divided into three equal portions: one left untreated as control, while the others were subjected to sun-drying and oven-drying for one month. The dried samples were pulverized, packaged in airtight containers, and stored under cool, dry conditions prior to analysis. Proximate composition, mineral content, and phytochemical screening were conducted using standard analytical techniques. Results indicated a significant reduction in moisture content from 84.30 ± 0.1% in the fresh sample to 23.70 ± 0.1% (sun-dried) and 11.30 ± 0.1% (oven-dried), thereby increasing dry matter availability. Concentrations of ash, fibre, crude fat, crude protein, and carbohydrates were elevated in the dried samples due to moisture loss. However, notable reductions in mineral content were observed—Calcium (Ca) declined from 2.78 mg/100g in the control to 2.10 mg/100g (sun-dried) and 1.07 mg/100g (oven-dried). Heat treatment also led to a significant decrease in anti-nutrients and food-toxicants, with oven-drying showing greater efficacy. The study concludes that both sun-drying and oven-drying effectively preserve Amaranthus leaves, though with some loss of micronutrients. Consuming larger quantities of the dried vegetable may help offset these losses, providing essential nutrients for populations at risk of malnutrition.
Evaluating Environmental and Public Health Hazards of Urban Flooding: Clinical Consequences and Considerations Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Umogbai, Debora Akinola; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Chukwudi, Emmanuel Eluu
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v3i1.8025

Abstract

Urban flooding poses a significant threat to environmental integrity and public health, particularly in rapidly expanding regions of Nigeria. This study evaluates the environmental contamination, clinical consequences, and psychosocial impacts of urban flooding across six districts—Gwarinpa, Lokogoma, and Lugbe in Abuja, and Yola North, Demsa, and Numan in Adamawa State—selected for their history of seasonal flooding, population density, and strategic urban importance. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining environmental sampling, clinical data collection, and household surveys. Water and soil samples were analyzed for microbial contamination (E. coli), pH, turbidity, and heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium) in line with WHO standards, while clinical data from health facilities were used to assess the prevalence of flood-related illnesses, including diarrhea, skin infections, and respiratory symptoms. Mental health outcomes were evaluated through structured surveys administered to 300 residents, focusing on anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Results revealed elevated levels of E. coli and heavy metals in flood-affected zones, with Lokogoma and Yola North recording the highest contamination, and these districts also reporting the highest incidence of waterborne diseases and respiratory conditions. Mental health symptoms were prevalent across all districts, with more than 50% of respondents in Lokogoma and Demsa reporting signs of anxiety and PTSD, while healthcare facilities in Lugbe and Numan experienced disruptions in chronic disease management and medication access, underscoring systemic vulnerabilities. In conclusion, urban flooding in Abuja and Adamawa has profound environmental and public health implications, and the findings highlight the need for integrated flood management strategies, including infrastructure upgrades, environmental monitoring, healthcare system strengthening, and mental health integration. Tailored interventions across these districts are essential to mitigate future risks and build community resilience in the face of climate-induced disasters.
Effect of the Different Drying Methods on the Chemical Composition of Fluted Pumpkin Leaves (Telfairia occidentalis) Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Onah, Daniel Oche; Yahaya, Musbau Adekunle; Ijezie, Augustina Elochukwu; Umeh, Chukwunonso John-Cyril
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v2i3.7477

Abstract

Vegetables, primarily the leafy parts of edible plants, are vital sources of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for maintaining good health. Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin leaves), widely consumed among various ethnic groups in Nigeria, is a green leafy vegetable often subjected to drying for preservation and flavor enhancement. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of drying methods on the chemical composition of T. occidentalis leaves. Approximately 2.5 kg of fresh leaves were procured from Watt Market, Calabar (South-South Nigeria), sorted, and divided into three equal portions: a fresh (untreated) control, a sun-dried sample, and an oven-dried sample. After one month of drying, the samples were pulverized into flour, packaged in airtight containers, and stored in a cool, dry place. Proximate, elemental, and phytochemical analyses were conducted using standard methods. Results revealed a substantial reduction in moisture content from 83.01 ± 0.1% in the fresh sample to 22.60 ± 0.1% and 10.50 ± 0.2% in sun- and oven-dried samples, respectively, leading to increased dry matter. Enhanced concentrations of ash, crude protein, fat, fiber, and carbohydrates were observed, particularly in oven-dried samples (e.g., crude protein increased from 2.80 ± 0.02% to 5.13 ± 0.01%). However, mineral content declined with drying, more significantly in oven-dried samples; sodium levels, for instance, decreased from 9.30 mg/100g (control) to 7.71 mg/100g (sun-dried) and 4.34 mg/100g (oven-dried). Additionally, anti-nutritional factors and food toxicants were significantly reduced, especially in oven-dried leaves. The findings suggest that while drying enhances certain nutritional attributes, it also compromises some mineral content. Nevertheless, drying remains a viable strategy to extend shelf life and reduce waste in the absence of refrigeration.
A Study to Determine the Incidence of Drug Abuse Among Students of Tertiary Institutions. A Case Study Wukari Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Omanchi, Emmanuel; Umogbai, Debora Akinola; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Dambazau, Zainab Bello; Chukwudi, Emmanuel Eluu; Jack, Precious Chioma
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.8024

Abstract

This study explores the incidence, patterns, and consequences of drug abuse among students in tertiary institutions in Taraba State, Nigeria, using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative survey data revealed that 28.4% of students had engaged in drug use, with alcohol (64.8%), cannabis (45.1%), and tramadol identified as the most commonly abused substances. Qualitative insights from focus group discussions and key informant interviews highlighted the social dynamics, institutional gaps, and cultural factors shaping substance use, with male students aged 21–25 and those living off-campus emerging as the most vulnerable demographic, while covert drug use among female students was linked to peer and romantic influences. Peer pressure, academic stress, and curiosity were reported as primary motivators, and hostel environments were found to foster experimentation. Drug abuse was associated with academic decline, mental health problems—including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation—and low utilization of counseling services, whereas institutional responses were characterized by limited drug education, weak enforcement, and poor awareness of available support systems. The study underscores the urgent need for integrated prevention strategies, peer-led interventions, and enhanced mental health services to address this growing public health concern.