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Journal : Open Access DRIVERset

Neurotoxic Effect of Cassava Cyanide on the Motor Activity and Cytoarchitecture of the Cerebellar Cortex of Albino Rats Umaru, Isaac John; Danjuma, Tyem Lawal; Shadrach, Katchim Evelyn; Salman, Julius Ishaya; Mchibuma, Jibaniya Grace; Umaru, Kerenhappuch Isaac
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i1.8299

Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), a widely consumed staple in tropical regions, contains cyanogenic glycosides that release hydrogen cyanide (HCN) upon hydrolysis. Chronic exposure to cassava-derived cyanide has been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly affecting motor coordination and cerebellar function. This study investigates the neurotoxic effects of cassava cyanide on motor activity and cerebellar cytoarchitecture in albino Wistar rats. Thirty adult male rats were divided into three groups: control, low-dose cyanide (10 mg/kg), and high-dose cyanide (20 mg/kg), administered orally for 15 days. Motor performance was assessed using rotarod and open field tests, while cerebellar tissues were examined histologically using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results revealed a dose-dependent decline in motor coordination and locomotor activity, with significant reductions in rotarod latency and open field distance in cyanide-treated groups compared to controls (p < 0.05). Histological analysis showed progressive Purkinje cell degeneration, vacuolation, and disrupted laminar architecture in the cerebellar cortex, particularly in the high-dose group. These findings suggest that cassava cyanide exerts neurotoxic effects on cerebellar neurons, impairing motor function through structural damage. The study underscores the importance of safe cassava processing and dietary interventions to mitigate cyanide-induced neurotoxicity in vulnerable populations.
Exploring the Use of Antenatal and Maternity Services by Mothers Engaged in Child Welfare Programs in Michika LGA, Adamawa State Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon O.; Danjuma, Tyem Lawal; Salman, Julius Ishaya; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Yeboah, Genevieve A.; Akumia, Prince Osei; Umaru, Hauwa A.; Ahmed, Maryam Usman
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i1.9302

Abstract

Maternal health remains a critical public health concern in Nigeria, where high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality persist despite ongoing interventions. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and utilization of maternal health services among women in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria, to identify key barriers to service uptake, and to evaluate the influence of child welfare programs on antenatal care utilization. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 250 women of reproductive age using structured questionnaires. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, antenatal and maternity service utilization, barriers to access, and participation in child welfare programs, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics to generate frequencies and percentages. The findings showed that 85% of respondents were aware of antenatal services and 80% attended antenatal care during their last pregnancy; however, only 30% completed more than four visits. Skilled birth attendance was reported by 68% of respondents, whereas 16% delivered at home or with traditional birth attendants, and 60% received post-natal care. The major barriers to service utilization included distance to health facilities (60%), financial constraints (44%), lack of transportation (36%), poor attitude of health workers (28%), cultural and religious beliefs (24%), and lack of awareness (16%). In addition, women who participated in child welfare programs were 30% more likely to utilize antenatal services. These findings indicate that, despite relatively high awareness, maternal health service utilization remains suboptimal because of intersecting structural, economic, and sociocultural barriers. The study underscores the need to strengthen health infrastructure, improve transportation access, subsidize care, and expand community-based interventions, while also addressing cultural beliefs and health worker attitudes to improve maternal health outcomes in rural Nigeria.
Prevalence of Malnutrition Among Children Under Five in Iware, Taraba State Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon O.; Danjuma, Tyem Lawal; Ayi, Atsu; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Akpan, Usenobong Morgan; Salman, Julius Ishaya; Hassan, George Okra; Ahmed, Maryam Usman; Umaru, Hauwa A.
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i2.9473

Abstract

Malnutrition remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly among children under five years of age, with serious consequences for morbidity, mortality, cognitive development, and long-term human capital. In rural communities such as Iware, Taraba State, this burden is intensified by poverty, poor feeding practices, limited access to healthcare, and low caregiver education. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of stunting, wasting, and underweight among children aged 0–59 months in Iware and to examine the associations between nutritional status and socio-economic factors, including household income, caregiver education, feeding practices, and recent illness episodes, while also assessing the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding and vitamin A supplementation. A cross-sectional design was employed, with a sample size estimated using Cochran’s formula at 200–400 children. A multistage sampling technique was used in which households were randomly selected and eligible children were stratified by age group. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire on socio-demographic characteristics, feeding practices, and household conditions, alongside anthropometric measurements of weight, height/length, and mid-upper arm circumference, with nutritional status classified according to WHO Growth Standards. Data collection was conducted over 2–4 weeks by trained enumerators following a pilot study, and the data were analyzed using SPSS and STATA through descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. The findings revealed a high prevalence of malnutrition, with stunting at 35%, underweight at 30%, and wasting at 25%. Although 60% of children were exclusively breastfed and 65% had received vitamin A supplementation, 42.5% had experienced recent illness. Socio-economic findings further showed that 72.5% of households earned below ₦30,000 per month and that 20% of caregivers had no formal education. Statistical analysis indicated significant associations between malnutrition and low household income, poor caregiver education, and inadequate complementary feeding practices (p < 0.05). The study concludes that malnutrition among children under five in Iware is driven by the combined effects of chronic poverty, limited maternal education, suboptimal feeding practices, and frequent illness. These findings underscore the need for multi-sectoral interventions focused on nutrition education, economic empowerment, improved healthcare access, and community-based strategies tailored to rural populations.