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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

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.

Effects of Ferrous Nanoparticles of Psidium guajava (Linn.) Leaf on Liver Functions in Male Wistar Rats Mustapha, Musa Azegya; A., Arowora K.; S, Ezeonu C.; Umaru, Isaac John
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.v2i3.8014

This study evaluated the effects of ferrous nanoparticles (FeNPs) derived from Psidium guajava L. leaves on liver function in male Wistar rats. Fresh leaves were harvested from the Government Reservation Area (G.R.A), Wukari, Taraba State, washed, air-dried, and pulverized prior to FeNP preparation. Twenty-five male albino rats (140–190 g) were randomly assigned to five groups, with Group 1 serving as the control and Groups 2–5 receiving oral FeNP doses of 100, 250, 500, and 1000 ppm, respectively, for three weeks. Post-treatment, serum samples were collected under chloroform anaesthesia for biochemical and histological analyses. Liver function tests revealed non-significant differences (p > 0.05) in measured parameters between Groups 1 and 3, whereas Groups 2, 4, and 5 showed significant alterations (p < 0.05) compared with the control. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels increased significantly in Groups 3–5, while Group 2 showed no significant change; alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels increased significantly in all treated groups except Groups 3 and 4. Albumin concentrations were significantly elevated across all treated groups. Total bilirubin (TB) and indirect bilirubin (IDB) remained unchanged in Group 2 but increased significantly in Groups 3–5, whereas direct bilirubin (DB) did not differ in Groups 2 and 3 but rose significantly in Groups 4 and 5. Total protein (TP) levels were comparable between Groups 1 and 2 but were significantly higher in Groups 3–5. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels did not differ significantly among groups, although apparent increases were observed, while catalase (CAT) activity was significantly elevated in all treated groups, peaking in Group 5. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity remained unchanged in Groups 2 and 3 but increased significantly in Groups 4 and 5. Histological examination revealed dose-dependent structural abnormalities in liver tissue, with the most pronounced damage observed in Group 5. Overall, FeNPs from Psidium guajava leaves induced dose-dependent alterations in liver function and antioxidant enzyme activity in male Wistar rats, with higher doses, particularly 1000 ppm, associated with marked biochemical disturbances and histological damage, suggesting potential hepatotoxicity at elevated concentrations and underscoring the need for further studies to define safe exposure thresholds and long-term effects.

Assessment of Biological Risk Exposure Among Hospital Housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Morgan, Akpan Usenobong; Umogbai, Debora Akinola; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Yeboah, Genevieve Akpah
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.v2i3.8026

Hospital housekeepers play a vital role in maintaining hygiene and preventing infections within healthcare facilities, yet they are frequently exposed to biological hazards such as bloodborne pathogens, respiratory droplets, and contaminated waste, often without adequate protection or training. In Nigeria, particularly in tertiary institutions like Wukari Teaching Hospital, limited resources and weak enforcement of safety protocols further increase the vulnerability of non-clinical staff. This study aimed to assess the level of biological risk exposure among hospital housekeepers and identify gaps in personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, hygiene practices, and institutional support. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 hospital housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital, with stratified random sampling ensuring representation across departments including wards, emergency, surgery, and outpatient units. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, direct observation checklists, and key informant interviews with infection control officers, and variables assessed included demographic data, exposure history, PPE usage, hygiene practices, and training experience. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, while qualitative responses were thematically coded. Findings revealed that 78.3% of housekeepers had direct contact with biological waste in the past six months, with blood, sputum, and vomit being the most common contaminants; only 41.7% consistently used full PPE, and just 36.7% reported that PPE was always available. Hand hygiene compliance was observed in 58.3% of cases, while 65% of respondents had never received formal infection control training, and only 30% felt adequately protected at work, with a majority suggesting improvements such as regular training, better supervision, and increased PPE supply. The study concludes that hospital housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital face substantial biological risks due to frequent exposure, inconsistent PPE usage, and inadequate training, highlighting the urgent need for institutional reforms including structured infection control education, reliable PPE provision, and strict enforcement of hygiene protocols to protect this essential workforce and ensure a safe and resilient healthcare environment.

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

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.

Phylogeography Based on Mitochondrial DNA Reveals Large Genetic Differences within Eswatini's Eldana saccharina Populations Ndlovu, Mphumelelo; Sibandze, Sibusiso; Dlamini, Bonginkosi Raymond; Assefa, Yoseph
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.v3i1.8803

The African sugarcane stalk borer, Eldana saccharina, is a widespread pest across sub-Saharan Africa and often exhibits substantial genetic structuring across its broad distribution, yet little is known about its genetic variation within the relatively small nation of Eswatini. This study employed mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequencing to investigate the phylogeography of E. saccharina in sugarcane-producing areas of Eswatini. Analysis of 69 specimens revealed two distinct genetic groups with significant genetic differentiation, despite the limited geographic scale of sampling. A minimum spanning network and a maximum parsimony tree clearly demonstrated the separation of the population into two discrete lineages. The observed genetic differences are likely shaped by the pest’s specialization on different host plants and historical biogeographic processes. This work provides the first DNA-based characterization of E. saccharina in Eswatini and the first report on the phylogeography of its populations in the country. The dataset generated constitutes a valuable addition to existing E. saccharina taxonomic resources and will support more rapid and informed decision making in the design and implementation of biological control programs in Eswatini and across the African continent.

Prevalence of Tuberculosis in Coastal Communities of Port Harcourt City, Rivers State, Nigeria Chinyere, Chikwendu; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
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.v3i1.9179

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with an estimated 586,000 incident cases in 2023, and coastal zones such as Port Harcourt present distinct epidemiological risks due to high population density, informal settlements, frequent flooding, and limited access to diagnostic and treatment services. Against the backdrop of scarce TB data specific to coastal communities and an almost complete absence of information on immunopathological mechanisms in this setting, this study examined TB prevalence and treatment compliance among residents of three coastal communities in Port Harcourt City, Rivers State—Eagle Island, Marine Base, and Borikiri Sea Side—and explored how risk factor exposure, preventive practices, attitudes, and knowledge relate to disease patterns. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, 400 respondents completed a structured questionnaire capturing socio-demographic characteristics, TB-related knowledge, exposure to risk factors, preventive behaviors, attitudes, and treatment history, and the data were analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean scores) and hypothesis testing. The findings show an overall TB prevalence of 11.5%, with community-specific prevalence of 12.0% in Eagle Island, 10.5% in Marine Base, and 12.5% in Borikiri Sea Side. Significant exposure to risk factors such as overcrowding, occupational hazards, and household tobacco smoke was positively correlated with TB prevalence (r = 0.462, p < 0.05). Moderate adoption of preventive measures (e.g., mouth covering and ensuring proper ventilation) was associated with better treatment compliance (r = 0.378, p < 0.05), although routine health check-ups were relatively uncommon. Positive attitudes toward TB—recognizing its seriousness and rejecting stigma—were linked to improved adherence (r = 0.421, p < 0.05), and higher TB knowledge similarly correlated with higher treatment compliance (r = 0.394, p < 0.05). The study concludes that TB control in these coastal communities requires an integrated strategy that simultaneously reduces exposure to structural and behavioral risk factors, strengthens preventive practices, promotes positive attitudes, and enhances TB-related knowledge. These context-specific insights provide an empirical basis for designing targeted public health interventions to improve treatment compliance and curb TB transmission in coastal Nigerian settings.

Anti-Diarrhoeal Activity of Azanza garckeana Fruit Aqueous Extract Using Swiss Mice Gabriel, Benjamin Ogunma; Ifechukwude, Grace Nonye; Inomo, Innocent Inomo; Eboreime, Ofunre Ozolua; Oloruntoba, Evonamhe Emmanuel; Idu, MacDonald
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.v3i1.9181

Traditional medicine encompasses medical therapies, methods, theories, and practices that employ products derived from plants, animals, and minerals, as well as spiritual and manual therapies and exercises. This study aimed to evaluate the antidiarrheal potential of Azanza garckeana in Swiss mice. Different doses of the plant extract (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) were assessed using castor oil–induced diarrhea and gastrointestinal transit models. The results showed that the extract produced a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the frequency of defecation of wet feces and in total fecal output compared with the control group. At higher doses, the extract also elicited significant (p < 0.05) antimotility effects relative to untreated controls. These findings validate the ethnomedicinal use of Azanza garckeana as an effective antidiarrheal agent and indicate the need for further studies on compound isolation, characterization, and pharmacological evaluation.

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.

Effects of Methanol Leaf and Root Extracts of Lophira lanceolata on Haematological Indices and Tissue Histology in Bitis arietans Venom-Induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats Joel, Emmanuel Askeb-nde; Umaru, Isaac John; Tersur, Kyugah Jacob; Manu, Sukyakma
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.v3i1.9306

Snakebite envenomation frequently causes severe haematological disturbances through venom-induced haemotoxicity and systemic inflammatory responses. This study investigated the restorative effects of methanol leaf and root extracts of Lophira lanceolata on haematological indices in Bitis arietans venom-intoxicated Wistar rats. Thirty-six male rats were assigned to six groups: normal control, venom control, venom plus antiserum, venom plus leaf extract (200 mg/kg), venom plus root extract (200 mg/kg), and venom plus combined extracts. After 14 days of treatment, blood samples were analyzed for white blood cells, red blood cells, haemoglobin, platelets, and haematocrit. Venom intoxication induced significant leukocytosis, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, and reduced haematocrit, whereas treatment with L. lanceolata extracts, particularly the root extract, significantly improved these parameters toward normal levels. The root extract restored white blood cells to 8.40 ± 0.38 × 10⁹/L, red blood cells to 7.65 ± 0.30 × 10¹²/L, haemoglobin to 6.80 ± 0.20 g/dL, platelets to 425.50 ± 19.26 × 10⁹/L, and haematocrit to 20.50 ± 1.13%, indicating superior haematoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects relative to the leaf extract. Histological examination further confirmed these findings, showing that the extracts, especially the root, ameliorated venom-induced necrosis, hemorrhage, and congestion in liver and kidney tissues. These findings suggest that Lophira lanceolata, particularly its root extract, has therapeutic potential as a complementary intervention for managing snakebite-induced haematological disorders and tissue damage.

Targeting RNA Modifications for Drug Development: The Role of Epitranscriptomics in Pharmacology Barau, Nafiu Sani; Collins, Tsutsu Terva; Abdulkadir, Aliyu Muqaddas
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.v3i1.9351

Epitranscriptomics has emerged as an additional regulatory layer of gene expression mediated by chemical modifications on RNA molecules, with important implications for cellular function and disease. This review synthesizes recent advances in epitranscriptomic research, focusing on major RNA modifications, including N⁶-methyladenosine, pseudouridine, and 5-methylcytosine, and their mechanistic roles in regulating RNA stability, splicing, localization, and translational efficiency through the coordinated actions of writers, erasers, and readers. It further examines the dynamic regulation of RNA modifications under pathological stress conditions and highlights their contribution to disease pathogenesis, particularly in cancer, metabolic disorders, and neurological diseases. In addition, the review discusses emerging pharmacological strategies targeting epitranscriptomic regulators, including small-molecule inhibitors and RNA-based therapeutic approaches. The evidence collectively indicates that RNA modifications represent promising therapeutic targets, while also underscoring persistent challenges related to target specificity, delivery efficiency, and off-target effects. The review concludes that epitranscriptomics constitutes a rapidly evolving frontier in drug discovery and precision pharmacology by expanding current understanding of disease mechanisms and offering new directions for therapeutic innovation.

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M. Irwan Hadi

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+6285799379817

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Editorial Address
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Location
Kab. lombok timur,

Nusa tenggara barat

INDONESIA

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Home Page

OAI Link

Editorial Team

Contact

Reviewer

Google Scholar

Contact Name M. Irwan Hadi

Contact Email office@yasin-alsys.org

Phone +6285799379817

Journal Mail Official -

Editorial Address -

Location Kab. lombok timur, Nusa tenggara barat INDONESIA

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Contact Name
M. Irwan Hadi

Contact Email
office@yasin-alsys.org

Phone
+6285799379817

Journal Mail Official
-

Editorial Address
-

Location
Kab. lombok timur,

Nusa tenggara barat

INDONESIA