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Assessment of HIV/AIDS Risk Behaviors among Secondary School Students in Adamawa State Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon O.; Danjuma, Tyem Lawal; Essien, Inemesit Samuel; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Akpan, Usenobong Morgan; Salman, Julius Ishaya; Amoah, Kwabena Owusu; Tony-Enwin, Evelyn Ovenomo; Umaru, Hauwa A.; Ahmed, Maryam Usman
African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/amjsai.v3i1.9303

Adolescents in Nigeria are increasingly exposed to HIV/AIDS risk behaviors due to socio-economic challenges, peer influence, and limited access to sexual health education, with secondary school students in Adamawa State particularly vulnerable to early sexual debut, multiple sexual partnerships, and inconsistent condom use. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HIV/AIDS risk behaviors among secondary school students in Adamawa State, examine the socio-demographic factors associated with these behaviors, and evaluate students’ knowledge and perceptions of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention. A cross-sectional survey design was employed involving 300 secondary school students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, sexual behavior, substance use, and HIV/AIDS knowledge, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The findings showed that 30% of students experienced peer pressure to engage in sex, 28% had already had sexual intercourse, 19% reported multiple sexual partners, 18.3% admitted inconsistent condom use, 14% used substances before sex, and 12% engaged in transactional sex. Knowledge gaps were also evident, as only 70% recognized condom use as a preventive measure and 25% incorrectly believed that HIV is curable. Socio-demographic factors, including age (18–19 years), male gender, senior class level, and single-parent family structure, were significantly associated with risky sexual behavior (p < .05). These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive sexual education, peer mentorship programs, and improved access to sexual health resources in secondary schools. The study contributes contextual evidence on adolescent HIV vulnerability in Adamawa State and highlights the importance of addressing socio-demographic risk factors and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS to reduce risky behaviors and promote adolescent health.

Production and Characterisation of Peroxidase from Aspergillus terrens Isolated from Water Sample in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria Timothy, Mgbede; Abah, Moses Adondua; Ayo, Victoria Ifeoluwa; Ahmed, Maryam Usman; Oyibo, Okpanachi Nuhu; Ijeomah, Nkechi Gift; Gbadebo, Adetoyi Moses; A, Ajala-Lawal R.; Najeeb, Aliyu Olamilekan; Morolake, Olabanji Martina; Iseko, Kingsley Iyoko; Istifanus, Dafup Katdel; Umaru, Isaac John
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 1 No 1 (2024): 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.v1i1.3667

The use of biocatalysts like enzymes in the development of environmentally sustainable processes has been reported as an ecofriendly approach for the current bioeconomy. This research aimed at producing and characterizing peroxidase from Aspergillus terrens isolated from water sample in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. Fungi species from surface water sample obtained in Federal University Wukari, Taraba Nigeria were isolated through serial dilution of peptone water and was cultured in a room temperature in different petri dishes using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). A portion of the fungi growth chosen from the best growth of cultured water sample were cut and transferred into the 250 Erlenmeyer flask each containing an acceptable proportion of phosphate buffer, pH 6.0. The screening for peroxidase production was aseptically performed on a plate by inoculating the fermented medium with azur B dye. The appearance of a clear zone indicated a positive result for peroxidase activity. The incubation of the peroxidase enzyme was conducted over eleven days, with the highest enzyme yield observed on the eighth day. The results obtained in this study showed that the effect of pH on peroxidase activity was studied, revealing that the optimum pH for enzyme activity was 7.5. Peroxidase activity was lowest at pH 1. Temperature variation studies showed that the optimum temperature for peroxidase activity was 30°C. Peroxidase activity changed as substrate concentration was varied. Peroxidase activity was revealed to be highest at substrate concentration 1.9 mM. The kinetic parameters for peroxidase were investigated to be: Vmax = 10.57082; Km = 0.244186. The evidence presented in this research has shown that peroxidase can be produced in mass by using of white rot fungi from/around our surroundings and can be explored as a cheap source of peroxidase for industrial and biotechnological purposes. In conclusion, producing peroxidase from local isolates presents an eco-friendly and affordable alternative for industrial applications, contributing to environmental sustainability and public health.

Antidiarrhoeal Activity of Methanolic Stem Bark Extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius in Castor Oil-Induced Diarrhoeal Albino Rats Ahmed, Maryam Usman; Titus, Diowato; Isa, Ruqayya
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 1 No 1 (2024): 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.v1i1.3708

Diarrhoea remains one of the leading causes of death among children in developing countries characterized by frequent passing of watery faeces. This study eval_uates the antidiarrhoeal activities of Sarcocephalus latifolius in castor oil-induced diarrhoeal albino rats. Thirty (30) albino rats were divided into six groups of five rats each. Except group 1 (control group) which received distilled water, all groups received 0.5 mL castor oil to induce diarrhoea. Group 2 received loperamide 3 mg/kg b. wt. Group 3, 4, 5, and 6 received 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg b. wt. respectively of the methanolic stem bark extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius. Total diarrhoeic faeces, stool inhibition, intestinal fluid accumulation, and intestinal transit was determined to eval_uate the antidiarrhoeal effect of the extract. Total diarrhoeal faeces, intestinal content and intestinal transit reflects significant (p<0.05) decrease with increase in the dose of the extract, group 4 which received high dose (400 mg/kg b. wt.) shows no significant difference when compared with group 2 which received loperamide. Percentage inhibition increases with increase in dose. Methanolic stem bark extract of S. latifolius possess antidiarrhoeal effect on castor oil-induced diarrhoea.

Comparative Study of the Effect of Locally Made Beer (Burukutu and Pito) and Star Lager Beer on Liver Function Parameters Ahmed, Maryam Usman; Wahedi, Lumayu Alexander; Abdulfatai, Ayinla Abayomi; Titus, Diowato; Aliyu, Kamaludden
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): 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.v2i2.6144

Alcohol consumption has a long history in human existence and is implicated as one of the major risk factors in the development of liver diseases. The comparative impact of locally made (burukutu and pito) sorghum-based beer and Star Larger beer on the liver biomarkers of albino rats was investigated. 35 albino rats were grouped into 7 groups of 5 rats each. Group one served as the control group and received only distilled water. Group 2 and 3 received 10 and 20 mL/kg b.wt of pito, groups 4 and 5 received 10 and 200 mL/kg b,wt of burukutu, while group 6 and 7 received 10 and 20 mL/kg of Star Larger beers, respectively, for 21 days after which the liver function parameters were assessed. There was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in albumin level of the treatment groups when compared with the control group. Bilirubin and ALP showed no significant difference (p<0.05) from the control group. There was no significant difference (p<0.05) in ALT levels of burukutu and Start Larger when compared with the control group, however, the groups treated with pito showed a significant increase (p<0.05) when compared with the control group. There was a significant increase (p<0.05) in all the treatment groups when compared with the control group, where group 3, which was treated with the higher dose of pito (20 mL/kg b.wt.) had the highest significant increase(p<0.05). albumin levels of the treatment groups showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) when compared with the control group. The three beers compared are toxic to the liver, with pito having the greatest toxicity.

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

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

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.

Production and Characterisation of Peroxidase from Aspergillus terrens Isolated from Water Sample in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria Timothy, Mgbede; Abah, Moses Adondua; Ayo, Victoria Ifeoluwa; Ahmed, Maryam Usman; Oyibo, Okpanachi Nuhu; Ijeomah, Nkechi Gift; Gbadebo, Adetoyi Moses; A, Ajala-Lawal R.; Najeeb, Aliyu Olamilekan; Morolake, Olabanji Martina; Iseko, Kingsley Iyoko; Istifanus, Dafup Katdel; Umaru, Isaac John
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 1 No 1 (2024): 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.v1i1.3667

The use of biocatalysts like enzymes in the development of environmentally sustainable processes has been reported as an ecofriendly approach for the current bioeconomy. This research aimed at producing and characterizing peroxidase from Aspergillus terrens isolated from water sample in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. Fungi species from surface water sample obtained in Federal University Wukari, Taraba Nigeria were isolated through serial dilution of peptone water and was cultured in a room temperature in different petri dishes using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). A portion of the fungi growth chosen from the best growth of cultured water sample were cut and transferred into the 250 Erlenmeyer flask each containing an acceptable proportion of phosphate buffer, pH 6.0. The screening for peroxidase production was aseptically performed on a plate by inoculating the fermented medium with azur B dye. The appearance of a clear zone indicated a positive result for peroxidase activity. The incubation of the peroxidase enzyme was conducted over eleven days, with the highest enzyme yield observed on the eighth day. The results obtained in this study showed that the effect of pH on peroxidase activity was studied, revealing that the optimum pH for enzyme activity was 7.5. Peroxidase activity was lowest at pH 1. Temperature variation studies showed that the optimum temperature for peroxidase activity was 30°C. Peroxidase activity changed as substrate concentration was varied. Peroxidase activity was revealed to be highest at substrate concentration 1.9 mM. The kinetic parameters for peroxidase were investigated to be: Vmax = 10.57082; Km = 0.244186. The evidence presented in this research has shown that peroxidase can be produced in mass by using of white rot fungi from/around our surroundings and can be explored as a cheap source of peroxidase for industrial and biotechnological purposes. In conclusion, producing peroxidase from local isolates presents an eco-friendly and affordable alternative for industrial applications, contributing to environmental sustainability and public health.

Antidiarrhoeal Activity of Methanolic Stem Bark Extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius in Castor Oil-Induced Diarrhoeal Albino Rats Ahmed, Maryam Usman; Titus, Diowato; Isa, Ruqayya
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 1 No 1 (2024): 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.v1i1.3708

Diarrhoea remains one of the leading causes of death among children in developing countries characterized by frequent passing of watery faeces. This study eval_uates the antidiarrhoeal activities of Sarcocephalus latifolius in castor oil-induced diarrhoeal albino rats. Thirty (30) albino rats were divided into six groups of five rats each. Except group 1 (control group) which received distilled water, all groups received 0.5 mL castor oil to induce diarrhoea. Group 2 received loperamide 3 mg/kg b. wt. Group 3, 4, 5, and 6 received 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg b. wt. respectively of the methanolic stem bark extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius. Total diarrhoeic faeces, stool inhibition, intestinal fluid accumulation, and intestinal transit was determined to eval_uate the antidiarrhoeal effect of the extract. Total diarrhoeal faeces, intestinal content and intestinal transit reflects significant (p<0.05) decrease with increase in the dose of the extract, group 4 which received high dose (400 mg/kg b. wt.) shows no significant difference when compared with group 2 which received loperamide. Percentage inhibition increases with increase in dose. Methanolic stem bark extract of S. latifolius possess antidiarrhoeal effect on castor oil-induced diarrhoea.

Comparative Study of the Effect of Locally Made Beer (Burukutu and Pito) and Star Lager Beer on Liver Function Parameters Ahmed, Maryam Usman; Wahedi, Lumayu Alexander; Abdulfatai, Ayinla Abayomi; Titus, Diowato; Aliyu, Kamaludden
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): 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.v2i2.6144

Alcohol consumption has a long history in human existence and is implicated as one of the major risk factors in the development of liver diseases. The comparative impact of locally made (burukutu and pito) sorghum-based beer and Star Larger beer on the liver biomarkers of albino rats was investigated. 35 albino rats were grouped into 7 groups of 5 rats each. Group one served as the control group and received only distilled water. Group 2 and 3 received 10 and 20 mL/kg b.wt of pito, groups 4 and 5 received 10 and 200 mL/kg b,wt of burukutu, while group 6 and 7 received 10 and 20 mL/kg of Star Larger beers, respectively, for 21 days after which the liver function parameters were assessed. There was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in albumin level of the treatment groups when compared with the control group. Bilirubin and ALP showed no significant difference (p<0.05) from the control group. There was no significant difference (p<0.05) in ALT levels of burukutu and Start Larger when compared with the control group, however, the groups treated with pito showed a significant increase (p<0.05) when compared with the control group. There was a significant increase (p<0.05) in all the treatment groups when compared with the control group, where group 3, which was treated with the higher dose of pito (20 mL/kg b.wt.) had the highest significant increase(p<0.05). albumin levels of the treatment groups showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) when compared with the control group. The three beers compared are toxic to the liver, with pito having the greatest toxicity.

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

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.

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