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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

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.

Effect of Methanol Leaf Extract of Annona senegalensis on Liver Function in Diethylnitrosamine-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats and Its Potential as an Antibacterial Agent Umaru, Isaac John; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Mona, Etah Hope; Omolara, Mosugu Ovayoza; Okang, Ogar Fonne; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Tansaba, Akafa Andes; Philip, Shadrach; Frank, Otashu Kenneth
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 2 No 3 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v2i3.7362

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most prevalent and deadly cancers globally, with limited treatment options and poor prognosis in advanced stages. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of methanol leaf extract of Annona senegalensis against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC in Wistar rats and investigated its antibacterial properties. Thirty-six male albino rats were allocated into six groups: Group I (normal control) received no treatment; Group II (negative control) was induced with HCC using DEN (50 mg/kg b.w., intraperitoneally) weekly for three weeks without therapy; Group III (positive control) received DEN followed by silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w.); while Groups IV, V, and VI received DEN followed by A. senegalensis extract at 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg b.w., respectively, administered orally for 14 days. Biochemical analysis showed that the extract significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated DEN-induced hepatotoxicity, with the 400 mg/kg dose most effective in reducing AST (48.71 ± 1.21 IU/L) and ALT (20.74 ± 1.06 IU/L) compared to the negative control (69.52 ± 0.88 IU/L and 54.97 ± 1.54 IU/L, respectively). Hepatic synthetic function was restored, as indicated by increased total protein (6.37 ± 0.13 g/L) and albumin (5.11 ± 0.10 g/L). Histopathological analysis confirmed marked architectural recovery with reduced necrosis and inflammatory infiltration. The extract also demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, exhibiting dose-dependent inhibition zones against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria, with effects comparable to standard antibiotics. These findings suggest that A. senegalensis leaf extract exerts hepatoprotective effects—likely through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative mechanisms—while also offering broad-spectrum antimicrobial benefits. The 400 mg/kg dose emerged as the most effective, highlighting its promise as a cost-effective complementary therapy for managing HCC and bacterial infections, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Further research should focus on isolating and characterizing the bioactive compounds and elucidating their mechanisms of action.

Effect of Methanol Leaf Extract of Annona senegalensis on Liver Function in Diethylnitrosamine-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats and Its Potential as an Antibacterial Agent Umaru, Isaac John; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Mona, Etah Hope; Omolara, Mosugu Ovayoza; Okang, Ogar Fonne; Akem, Ingwu Joseph; Tansaba, Akafa Andes; Philip, Shadrach; Frank, Otashu Kenneth
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 2 No 3 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v2i3.7362

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most prevalent and deadly cancers globally, with limited treatment options and poor prognosis in advanced stages. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of methanol leaf extract of Annona senegalensis against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC in Wistar rats and investigated its antibacterial properties. Thirty-six male albino rats were allocated into six groups: Group I (normal control) received no treatment; Group II (negative control) was induced with HCC using DEN (50 mg/kg b.w., intraperitoneally) weekly for three weeks without therapy; Group III (positive control) received DEN followed by silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w.); while Groups IV, V, and VI received DEN followed by A. senegalensis extract at 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg b.w., respectively, administered orally for 14 days. Biochemical analysis showed that the extract significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated DEN-induced hepatotoxicity, with the 400 mg/kg dose most effective in reducing AST (48.71 ± 1.21 IU/L) and ALT (20.74 ± 1.06 IU/L) compared to the negative control (69.52 ± 0.88 IU/L and 54.97 ± 1.54 IU/L, respectively). Hepatic synthetic function was restored, as indicated by increased total protein (6.37 ± 0.13 g/L) and albumin (5.11 ± 0.10 g/L). Histopathological analysis confirmed marked architectural recovery with reduced necrosis and inflammatory infiltration. The extract also demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, exhibiting dose-dependent inhibition zones against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria, with effects comparable to standard antibiotics. These findings suggest that A. senegalensis leaf extract exerts hepatoprotective effects—likely through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative mechanisms—while also offering broad-spectrum antimicrobial benefits. The 400 mg/kg dose emerged as the most effective, highlighting its promise as a cost-effective complementary therapy for managing HCC and bacterial infections, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Further research should focus on isolating and characterizing the bioactive compounds and elucidating their mechanisms of action.

Burkholderia Cepacia Complex: A Cause of Dental Caries in Uyo, Southern Nigeria State Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Onwuezobe, Ifeanyi Abraham; Umo, Anthony Nathaniel; Kingsley, Victoria Intimate; Shehu, Amina Jummai
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): 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.v2i2.5121

Background. Dental caries is a common oral disease worldwide, and it affects above 90% of the population. Several bacteria species are implicated in caries; many of which are the normal microbiota of the buccal cavity. These bacteria are often opportunistic. Caries process starts from proliferation of oral flora, establishment of non-oral bacteria, and production of biofilm leading to plaque formation. This serves as a shield for pathogenic bacteria from being eliminated by antibiotics. The aim of this study was to find out the dominant bacteria of caries in Uyo, and factors that influence their occurrence. Methods. One hundred and twenty plaque samples of participants were analyzed using standard laboratory methods; biochemical and antibiotics susceptibility tests results were obtained using Vitek 2 System (bioMe´rieux). CTX-M, TEM and OXA resistance genes were analyzed for, and were amplified on an ABI 9700 Applied Biosystems thermal cycler using pre-determined conditions set. Results. Nine (9 (33.3%) Gram-positive bacteria and 18 (66.7%) Gram-negative bacterial isolates were obtained. The dominant isolate was Burkholderia cepacia complex 7 (25.9%), while some of the least were; Pediococcus pentosaceus 1 (3.7%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae 1 (3.7%). Ceftazidime was the antibiotic B. cepacia were mostly resistant to, but greatly sensitive to Amikacin and Tobramycin. Six B. cepacia isolates (out of 7 identified) were further analyzed molecularly by 16s rRNA sequencing. Burkholderia cenocepacia (2 isolates) and Burkholderia cepacia (4 isolates) were the two species identified. Conclusions. B. cepacia complex is known to cause major complications in cystic fibrosis and immunocompromised patients. Therefore, it is a major health challenge for it to be implicated in caries in Uyo, as it can easily spread to different parts of the body (the lungs inclusive) through the carious tooth. It is also an established fact that B. cepacia resistance genes rapidly disseminate, making treatment difficult.

Phenotypic Detection and Risk Factors of Bacteria Aetiological Agents of Dental Caries in Patients in Uyo Nigeria Onwuezobe, Ifeanyi Abraham; Udoh, Mary Athanasius; Ekuma, Agantem Emmanuel; Takon, Mary Bondick; Ngwu, Faith Amarachi
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 2 No 2 (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.v2i2.5303

Background. Dental caries is a highly prevalent oral disease that affects approximately 100% of individuals in the society. This disease causes severe damage to the teeth. Several acidophilic bacteria are implicated in the disease. This research was done to detect bacterial agents and risk factors implicated in caries in Uyo, Nigeria. Methods. A total of 120 dental plaque samples were cultured. Vitek 2 System (bioMe´rieux) was used for biochemical characterization and antibiotic susceptibility of isolates. Results. Several bacterial species (Thirteen) were obtained from significant culture growth of 27 (22.5%). Burkholderia cepacia group were 7(5.8%), and the most prevalent. Enterococcus faecalis 1(0.8%), Enterococcus spp (non E. faecalis) 1(0.8%), Pediococcus pentosaceus 1(0.8%), Kocuria kristinae 1(0.8%), Serratia ficaria 2(1.7%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 1(0.8%), Acinetobacter spp 1(0.8%) and Enterobacter cloacae ssp dissolvens 1(0.8%) were the least prevalent isolates. This study showed new bacteria species being implicated in caries, and high consumption of sugary foods being the main risk factor of caries. Conclusions. The identification of novel bacteria species in caries, and the attribution of staple foods as the lead risk factor of caries amongst dental caries patients in Uyo is a cause for alarm, as most of these people rely on carbohydrates for their daily food, as the soil of their farmlands are most favourable in yielding carbohydrate crops compared to other crops. Hence, there is need for frequent health enlightenment program, especially in the urban areas on adverse effect of frequent snacking and/or eating carbohydrates without rinsing the mouth frequently to rid it of food debris.

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

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.

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