Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 16 Documents
Search

Genotypic Detection of Dominant Bacteria in Dental Caries in Uyo, Nigeria Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Onwuezobe, Ifeanyi Abraham; Abdulkadir, Rasheedat; Abubakar, Auwal; Yahaya, Musbau Adekunle; Onah, Daniel Oche
Asian Journal of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Art Vol 3 No 3 (2025): Asian Journal of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Art
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstea.v3i3.5799

Abstract

Dental caries remains one of the most prevalent and persistent oral health challenges globally, with nearly universal incidence across populations. The disease is increasingly complicated by the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, a phenomenon largely driven by biofilm formation and the acquisition of resistance genes. This study aimed to identify the predominant bacterial species implicated in the etiology of dental caries in Uyo, Nigeria, and to characterize their associated antibiotic resistance genes. A total of 120 clinical samples were analyzed using the VITEK 2 Compact System (bioMérieux) for bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing. Molecular detection of three extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes—CTX-M, TEM, and OXA—was performed via PCR using standard thermal cycling conditions on an ABI 9700 Applied Biosystems platform. Among the 27 isolates recovered, Gram-negative bacteria constituted 66.7%, with Burkholderia cepacia complex being the most prevalent (25.9%). Burkholderia cepacia exhibited high sensitivity to Amikacin and Tobramycin but showed marked resistance to Ceftazidime. Of the B. cepacia isolates, 6 (85.7%) underwent 16S rRNA sequencing, confirming their identity as Burkholderia cepacia (n=4) and Burkholderia cenocepacia (n=2). CTX-M genes were detected in all sequenced isolates (100%), while TEM genes were present in one isolate (16.7%) and OXA genes were absent. These findings underscore the potential public health threat posed by ESBL-producing B. cepacia complex strains in dental caries, highlighting the urgent need for targeted antimicrobial stewardship and enhanced surveillance in oral healthcare settings.
Determine the Background Characteristics of Abattoir Butchers in Sishiagu, Tamale Metropolis Asare, Solomon Ossom; Bulama, Ahmed Abdu; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Tahidu, Issifu
African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Vol 2 No 1 (2025): 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.v2i1.5025

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the background characteristics of abattoir butchers in Sishiagu, Tamale Metropolis. A total of two hundred structured questionnaires were used to collect data on participants' background characteristics of abattoir butchers, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21. The results showed that all butchers (95.5%) in this study were male, while 4.5% with 20.7% aged less than 20yrs 43.7% between 20yrs and 30 yrs, 25.9% 31yrs to 40yrs, 7.4% 41yrs to 50yrs and 2.2% 51yrs to 60yrs, less than half (43.7%) of the butchers were older than 29yrs. Additionally, 61.9% of butchers were married, while 36.6% were single and Divorced was 1.5%. The study found that 46% had less than 10 years of work experience, while 24% had 11 to 20 years of experience. Notably, 20.7% of butchers were uneducated, with only 0.7% with postgraduate, 5.9% holding a university degree, 26.7% with SSS/SHS and 20.7% with JHS. Furthermore, tenure of years in the business was found to be 30.4% at the age of 1yrs to 5yrs, 35.6% at 6yrs to 10yrs and 34.1 % at 11yrs. There was a clear understanding that younger generation at the age of 20yrs to 40yrs is taking over the Abattoir Butchers. In conclusion, the study indicates that the work force in the abattoir are younger generation based on the background characteristics and as such a moderate awareness regarding meat hygiene among butchers and meat workers in Sishiagu, Tamale Metropolis should be obtainable.
Estimation of Kidney Function and Haematological Parameters of Methanol Leaf Extract of Annona senegalensis on Diethyl Nitrosamine-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats Umaru, Isaac John; Absalom, Augustine; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Omolara, Mosugu Ovayoza; Okang, Ogar Fonne; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Tansaba, Akafa Andes; Frank, Otashu Kenneth; Philip, Shadrach
African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Vol 2 No 3 (2025): 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.v2i3.7359

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of liver-related mortality worldwide, often linked to oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity induced by carcinogens such as diethylnitrosamine (DEN). This study investigates the biochemical and hematological effects of methanol leaf extract of Annona senegalensis on DEN-induced HCC in male albino rats. Thirty rats were divided into six groups: normal control, negative control (DEN-induced), positive control (DEN + silymarin), and three treatment groups receiving A. senegalensis extract at 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and a combined regimen. DEN exposure significantly elevated serum biomarkers of liver damage, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin. Treatment with A. senegalensis extract at 400 mg/kg markedly reduced ALT, AST, and ALP levels compared to the negative control, demonstrating hepatoprotective potential. Hematological analysis revealed a decline in white blood cell (WBC) count across treatment groups, suggesting possible immunosuppressive effects. Red blood cell (RBC) count and hemoglobin (HGB) levels decreased at 200 mg/kg but increased at 400 mg/kg, indicating a dose-dependent erythropoietic effect. Platelet (PLT) counts, elevated in the DEN-induced group, were normalized by the extract. These results suggest that A. senegalensis contains bioactive compounds with hepatoprotective and hematomodulatory activities. While higher doses improved liver function and hematological balance, the observed immunosuppressive tendencies highlight the need for further mechanistic studies. The findings support the therapeutic potential of A. senegalensis in hepatocellular carcinoma management, warranting future preclinical and clinical evaluation.
Determine the Background Characteristics of Abattoir Butchers in Sishiagu, Tamale Metropolis Asare, Solomon Ossom; Bulama, Ahmed Abdu; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Tahidu, Issifu
African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Vol 2 No 1 (2025): 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.v2i1.5025

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the background characteristics of abattoir butchers in Sishiagu, Tamale Metropolis. A total of two hundred structured questionnaires were used to collect data on participants' background characteristics of abattoir butchers, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21. The results showed that all butchers (95.5%) in this study were male, while 4.5% with 20.7% aged less than 20yrs 43.7% between 20yrs and 30 yrs, 25.9% 31yrs to 40yrs, 7.4% 41yrs to 50yrs and 2.2% 51yrs to 60yrs, less than half (43.7%) of the butchers were older than 29yrs. Additionally, 61.9% of butchers were married, while 36.6% were single and Divorced was 1.5%. The study found that 46% had less than 10 years of work experience, while 24% had 11 to 20 years of experience. Notably, 20.7% of butchers were uneducated, with only 0.7% with postgraduate, 5.9% holding a university degree, 26.7% with SSS/SHS and 20.7% with JHS. Furthermore, tenure of years in the business was found to be 30.4% at the age of 1yrs to 5yrs, 35.6% at 6yrs to 10yrs and 34.1 % at 11yrs. There was a clear understanding that younger generation at the age of 20yrs to 40yrs is taking over the Abattoir Butchers. In conclusion, the study indicates that the work force in the abattoir are younger generation based on the background characteristics and as such a moderate awareness regarding meat hygiene among butchers and meat workers in Sishiagu, Tamale Metropolis should be obtainable.
Estimation of Kidney Function and Haematological Parameters of Methanol Leaf Extract of Annona senegalensis on Diethyl Nitrosamine-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats Umaru, Isaac John; Absalom, Augustine; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Omolara, Mosugu Ovayoza; Okang, Ogar Fonne; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Tansaba, Akafa Andes; Frank, Otashu Kenneth; Philip, Shadrach
African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Vol 2 No 3 (2025): 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.v2i3.7359

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of liver-related mortality worldwide, often linked to oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity induced by carcinogens such as diethylnitrosamine (DEN). This study investigates the biochemical and hematological effects of methanol leaf extract of Annona senegalensis on DEN-induced HCC in male albino rats. Thirty rats were divided into six groups: normal control, negative control (DEN-induced), positive control (DEN + silymarin), and three treatment groups receiving A. senegalensis extract at 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and a combined regimen. DEN exposure significantly elevated serum biomarkers of liver damage, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin. Treatment with A. senegalensis extract at 400 mg/kg markedly reduced ALT, AST, and ALP levels compared to the negative control, demonstrating hepatoprotective potential. Hematological analysis revealed a decline in white blood cell (WBC) count across treatment groups, suggesting possible immunosuppressive effects. Red blood cell (RBC) count and hemoglobin (HGB) levels decreased at 200 mg/kg but increased at 400 mg/kg, indicating a dose-dependent erythropoietic effect. Platelet (PLT) counts, elevated in the DEN-induced group, were normalized by the extract. These results suggest that A. senegalensis contains bioactive compounds with hepatoprotective and hematomodulatory activities. While higher doses improved liver function and hematological balance, the observed immunosuppressive tendencies highlight the need for further mechanistic studies. The findings support the therapeutic potential of A. senegalensis in hepatocellular carcinoma management, warranting future preclinical and clinical evaluation.
Effect of Aqueous Extract of Achyranthes aspera Leaves on Antiretroviral Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats Umaru, Isaac John; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Akafa, Tensaba Andes; Oteng, Joseph; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Ngbede, Ocheifa Mathew; Utioukpan, Ashaka Fidelis; Mijinyawa, Aboki Nwunuji; Ekup, Ogholo Ogholo
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.v2i2.5183

Abstract

Achyranthes aspera leaves are believed to reverse drug resistance and increase the efficacy of current drugs. Achyranthes aspera leaves contain many secondary metabolites needed for the redressal of diseases and ailment. Thus, the ART-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Methodology: Thirty (30) albino rats were divided into 5 groups of 6 each and treated as follows: Group A (no antiretroviral drugs, no extract); group B (antiretroviral drugs alone); group C (extract alone); group D (antiretroviral drug plus 40 mg/kg extract); group E (antiretroviral drug plus 80 mg/kg extract). All treatment lasted for twenty-eight days. Blood samples were collescted and serum ALT and AST determined using UV-spectrophotometer. The mean (± S.E.M) of data were calculated and further analysed for statistical significance using graph Pad Prism 5.0. Results: Mean serum ALT were 36.8 ± 20.24, 56.11 ± 6.12, 54.6 ± 24.18, 90.40 ± 11.14, 88.36 ± 13.10 and that of AST were 143.8 ± 20.24, 208.4 ± 16.13, 60.0 ± 24.18, 164.40 ± 11.14, 52.36 ± 16.14 for groups A, B, C, D, and E respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the mean values of serum AST for group B and those for group C. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the ALT values for the test and control groups of rats (p value >0.999) Also, there was no statistically significant difference between the mean values of AST for group B and those of groups A, D, E. Conclusions: This extract at a higher concentration should add to the treatment of HIV in synergy with antiviral drugs, However, the extract shown no significant reduction of serum ALT and AST in ART treated rats.
Effect of Sun-Drying and Oven-Drying Processing Methods on the Chemical Composition of Bitter Leaves (Vernonia amygdalina) Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Ijezie, Augustina Elochukwu; Abah, Scholastica Ene; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Yahaya, Musbau Adekunle; Mohammed, Kulu Sanda
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 2 No 3 (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.v2i3.7903

Abstract

Leafy vegetables, commonly consumed as edible plant shoots, are rich sources of macro- and micronutrients. Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaves) is a widely consumed vegetable in Nigeria, especially among the Igbo community, where drying—either by sun or oven—is a prevalent preservation method that also enhances taste. This study investigates the effects of sun-drying and oven-drying on the chemical composition of Vernonia amygdalina leaves. Approximately 2.5 kg of fresh leaves were purchased from Watt Market, Calabar (South-South Nigeria), destalked, and divided into three equal portions. One portion was used as a control (fresh, unprocessed), while the other two were subjected to one-month drying treatments—sun-drying and oven-drying—before being pulverized into flours, sealed in airtight containers, and stored under cool, dry conditions. Standard analytical procedures were employed to assess proximate composition, elemental content, and phytochemical properties. Results revealed that both drying methods significantly reduced moisture content, leading to an increase in dry matter. Notably, the sun-dried samples showed increased ash (6.32 ± 0.02% vs. 2.45 ± 0.02% in control) and crude protein (6.23 ± 0.02% vs. 5.40 ± 0.1%), while oven-dried samples exhibited elevated crude fat (3.33 ± 0.2%), crude fibre (14.30 ± 0.1%), and carbohydrate content (52.10 ± 0.01%) compared to the control. Conversely, drying led to reductions in vitamin levels, mineral content, antinutrients, and food toxicants. These findings indicate that drying improves the nutritional density of macronutrients while decreasing potentially harmful components, thus enhancing the digestibility and safety of the leaves. The study concludes that sun and oven-drying are effective preservation techniques that significantly influence the nutritional profile of Vernonia amygdalina, with important implications for food security and dietary quality.
Effect of Aqueous Extract of Achyranthes aspera Leaves on Antiretroviral Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats Umaru, Isaac John; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Akafa, Tensaba Andes; Oteng, Joseph; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Ngbede, Ocheifa Mathew; Utioukpan, Ashaka Fidelis; Mijinyawa, Aboki Nwunuji; Ekup, Ogholo Ogholo
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.v2i2.5183

Abstract

Achyranthes aspera leaves are believed to reverse drug resistance and increase the efficacy of current drugs. Achyranthes aspera leaves contain many secondary metabolites needed for the redressal of diseases and ailment. Thus, the ART-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Methodology: Thirty (30) albino rats were divided into 5 groups of 6 each and treated as follows: Group A (no antiretroviral drugs, no extract); group B (antiretroviral drugs alone); group C (extract alone); group D (antiretroviral drug plus 40 mg/kg extract); group E (antiretroviral drug plus 80 mg/kg extract). All treatment lasted for twenty-eight days. Blood samples were collescted and serum ALT and AST determined using UV-spectrophotometer. The mean (± S.E.M) of data were calculated and further analysed for statistical significance using graph Pad Prism 5.0. Results: Mean serum ALT were 36.8 ± 20.24, 56.11 ± 6.12, 54.6 ± 24.18, 90.40 ± 11.14, 88.36 ± 13.10 and that of AST were 143.8 ± 20.24, 208.4 ± 16.13, 60.0 ± 24.18, 164.40 ± 11.14, 52.36 ± 16.14 for groups A, B, C, D, and E respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the mean values of serum AST for group B and those for group C. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the ALT values for the test and control groups of rats (p value >0.999) Also, there was no statistically significant difference between the mean values of AST for group B and those of groups A, D, E. Conclusions: This extract at a higher concentration should add to the treatment of HIV in synergy with antiviral drugs, However, the extract shown no significant reduction of serum ALT and AST in ART treated rats.
Effect of Sun-Drying and Oven-Drying Processing Methods on the Chemical Composition of Bitter Leaves (Vernonia amygdalina) Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Ijezie, Augustina Elochukwu; Abah, Scholastica Ene; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Yahaya, Musbau Adekunle; Mohammed, Kulu Sanda
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 2 No 3 (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.v2i3.7903

Abstract

Leafy vegetables, commonly consumed as edible plant shoots, are rich sources of macro- and micronutrients. Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaves) is a widely consumed vegetable in Nigeria, especially among the Igbo community, where drying—either by sun or oven—is a prevalent preservation method that also enhances taste. This study investigates the effects of sun-drying and oven-drying on the chemical composition of Vernonia amygdalina leaves. Approximately 2.5 kg of fresh leaves were purchased from Watt Market, Calabar (South-South Nigeria), destalked, and divided into three equal portions. One portion was used as a control (fresh, unprocessed), while the other two were subjected to one-month drying treatments—sun-drying and oven-drying—before being pulverized into flours, sealed in airtight containers, and stored under cool, dry conditions. Standard analytical procedures were employed to assess proximate composition, elemental content, and phytochemical properties. Results revealed that both drying methods significantly reduced moisture content, leading to an increase in dry matter. Notably, the sun-dried samples showed increased ash (6.32 ± 0.02% vs. 2.45 ± 0.02% in control) and crude protein (6.23 ± 0.02% vs. 5.40 ± 0.1%), while oven-dried samples exhibited elevated crude fat (3.33 ± 0.2%), crude fibre (14.30 ± 0.1%), and carbohydrate content (52.10 ± 0.01%) compared to the control. Conversely, drying led to reductions in vitamin levels, mineral content, antinutrients, and food toxicants. These findings indicate that drying improves the nutritional density of macronutrients while decreasing potentially harmful components, thus enhancing the digestibility and safety of the leaves. The study concludes that sun and oven-drying are effective preservation techniques that significantly influence the nutritional profile of Vernonia amygdalina, with important implications for food security and dietary quality.
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.