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Effect of Two Different Drying Techniques on the Chemical Composition of Amaranthus Mary Athanasius Udoh; Musbau Adekunle Yahaya; Abimbola Gbenga Olayemi; Augustina Elochukwu Ijezie; Zainab Bello Dambazau; Faith Amarachi Ngwu
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.
A Study to Determine the Incidence of Drug Abuse Among Students of Tertiary Institutions. A Case Study Wukari Isaac John Umaru; Solomon Ossom Asare; Emmanuel Omanchi; Debora Akinola Umogbai; Abimbola Gbenga Olayemi; Zainab Bello Dambazau; Emmanuel Eluu Chukwudi; Precious Chioma Jack
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.