Antimicrobial activity of selected nutraceutical plants used in Northern Uganda

*1Ikinyom, N., 2Lamwaka, A. V., 3Malagala, A. T., and 4Ndyomugyenyi, E. K.

1Department of Environment, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Gulu University, P. O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda

2Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, P. O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda

3Institute of Peace and Strategic Studies, Gulu University, P. O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda

4Department of Animal Production and Range Management, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Gulu University, P. O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda

*Correspondence to: ikinyom@yahoo.co.uk & ikinyomiriam@gmail.com. Tel: +256 0772-389056

Abstract:
Background: Nutraceutical plants (NP) play a vital role as supportive treatment with antiretroviral drugs (ARVs). However, there is limited scientific evidence on the efficacy of NP to justify their extensive use. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of three nutraceutical plants which are commonly used as antimicrobials. Continue reading “Antimicrobial activity of selected nutraceutical plants used in Northern Uganda”

Antagonistic activity of secondary metabolites from rhizofunctional bacteria extracts against Fusarium species

Antwi, E. O.
Accra Technical University, P. O. Box 571, Accra, Ghana Correspondence to: eoantwi@atu.edu.gh

Abstract:

Background: Fusarium species remain important fugal pathogens that produce several mycotoxins with adverse effects on both plant and animals. This work aimed to identify biocontrol agent from rhizofunctional bacteria and assess its antagonistic activity against Fusarium sp. using dual culture technique. Methodology: Briefly a circular disc of the Fusarium sp. was inoculated at the center of Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) plate and incubated for three days. The bacterial isolates were then inoculated about 2cm from the Fusarium hyphal tips and incubated for three days, and zone of inhibition was examined. Isolates that showed antagonistic activities against the fungi were subculture in nutrient broth for three days and the metabolites were extracted using ethyl acetate. The metabolic extracts were tested against the fungi using the agar disc diffusion method. Results: Of the 20 rhizofunctional bacterial isolates screened for antagonistic activities against Fusarium sp., 5 showed active antagonism against the fungi with observed clear zone of inhibition in the dual culture, and microscopic examination of the fungal hyphae showed excessive and diffused hyphal branching with hyphal swelling. Ethyl acetate extracts from nutrient broth cultures did not show any zone of inhibition in dual culture against the Fusarium sp. All the 5 bacterial isolates were Gram positive strains but only 2 isolates (2a and 3K) were lipase positive, which may indicate that the mechanisms of antagonism could be due to the production of enzymes that have the ability to hydrolyze the cell wall and membrane lipids of the fungi. Conclusion: The rhizoplane and rhizosphere of plants could be great sources of biocontrol agents and that bacterial isolates 2a and 3K have the potential to be used as antifungal agents against Fusarium sp. Molecular identification of 2a and 3K bacterial isolates to the species level is recommended.

Keywords: antagonistic; secondary metabolites; rhizofunctional; bacteria; Fusarium
Received Oct 6, 2022; Revised Dec 15, 2022; Accepted Oct 19, 2023

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Antagonistic activity of secondary metabolites from rhizofunctional bacteria extracts against Fusarium species

The CLIMIDSON Manual for Antimicrobial Stewardship Programmes in Nigerian Health Care Facilities

*1Iregbu, K. C., 2Oduyebo, O. O., 3Taiwo, S. S., 1Nwajiobi-Princewill, P. I., 2Oshun, P. O., 4Nwafia, I. N., 5Elikwu, C. J., 6Manga, M. M., 7Oboro, I. L., and 8Kudayah, I. O.

1Department of Medical Microbiology, National Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Microbiology, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria

3Department of Medical Microbiology, LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria

5Department of Medical Microbiology, Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan-Remo, Nigeria

6Department of Medical Microbiology, Gombe State University Teaching Hospital, Gombe, Nigeria

7Department of Medical Microbiology, Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Nigeria

8Lifeline Children Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: keniregbu@yahoo.co.uk

Executive Summary:

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) remains a cornerstone of efforts aimed at improving antimicrobial-related patient safety. It slows the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), while helping clinicians to improve clinical outcomes and minimise harm by improving antimicrobial prescribing. AMS programmes (ASPs) are driven through various processes and people. An AMS structure comprises the core elements that should be in place to support the ASP including the AMS team, treatment guidelines, and surveillance of AMR and antimicrobial use (AMU). Continue reading “The CLIMIDSON Manual for Antimicrobial Stewardship Programmes in Nigerian Health Care Facilities”

Genital mycoplasmas and gynaecologic cancer: A systematic review

*1Ezeanya-Bakpa, C. C., 2Agbakoba, N. R., 2Udeogu, C. V., 2Uduchi, I. O., 3Oguejiofor, C. B., and 2Ekelozie, I. S.

 

1Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Caleb University, Lagos, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

3Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: cc.ezeanya@gmail.com; chinyere.bakpa@calebuniversity.edu.ng; +234 8068917612;     ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000000278447414  Abstract:  

Studies on genital mycoplasmas (GM) role in gynaecologic cancers (GC) such as cervical, endometrial, ovarian, vaginal, vulva and fallopian tube, is limited. This review was conducted to evaluate an association between GM and GC. The systematic study was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines across online databases including Embase, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to August, 2022. Continue reading “Genital mycoplasmas and gynaecologic cancer: A systematic review”

Microbial menace to kidney health: A review of the role of infections in acute kidney injury

Medugu, N., and *Adegboro, B.

Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: boazadegboro@gmail.com; boaz.adegboro@nileuniversity.edu.ng; +234 80 33812348

Abstract:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) of infectious aetiology is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive microbiological evaluation. This includes sepsis workup, evaluation of urinary tract infection (UTI), assessment for viral, fungal, and bacterial infections, consideration of the patient’s microbiome, and vigilance towards antibiotic toxicity. Advanced molecular diagnostic tools such as metagenomic sequencing and rapid point-of-caretesting, may offer future advances in accurate and timely identification of infectious aetiologies in AKI. Continue reading “Microbial menace to kidney health: A review of the role of infections in acute kidney injury”

A review of the legal and ethical perspectives in HIV/AIDS management in Nigeria

 

*[1]Obaro, H. K., [2]Suleiman, B. A., [3]Ajide, O. B., [4]Aminu, B. T., 4Okonta, N. E., [5]Ojo, O. S.,    and 5Olatoke, S. O.

 

1Department of Medical Microbiology, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, Nigeria

2Department of Family Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, Nigeria

3Department of Paediatrics, Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, Nigeria

4Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, Nigeria

5Department of Emergency Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: obarohasan@yahoo.com; +2348136436916; ORCiD: https://orcid.org/000000033983657X

 

Abstract:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) remain major public health issues in Nigeria and other developing countries. Discrimination even among healthcare workers (HCWs), which includes poor service delivery at the point-of-care and human rights abuses, are the main factors that continue to hinder HIV eradication in developing countries, and these spread across all levels of HIV/AIDS services, from counseling and testing, to treatment and care. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) have continued to suffer from unethical conduct, human rights abuses, discrimination, and stigmatization from HCWs, employers of labor, educational institutions, religious houses, and the public. There exist Federal and some State laws that protect the rights and privileges of PLWHA, prevent discrimination and stigmatization from the general public, prevent employers from discriminating against persons with HIV infection, protect workers who criticize hazardous conditions in the workplace, and offer compensation to victims of HIV-related human rights abuses and employees for contracting job-related diseases. However, HIV-related human rights abuses, stigmatization, and discrimination, have continued unabated, not because there are no laws to protect victims, but due to ignorance of the law, complicated by the fact that some existing laws have remained dormant with regard to implementation and enforcement. Domestication of these laws by various State Governments in the country and enforcement by relevant institutions are also big issues. It is imperative for healthcare professionals to be aware of current professional standards and the general public to be aware of laws protecting victims of the virus. Continue reading “A review of the legal and ethical perspectives in HIV/AIDS management in Nigeria”

Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV: A 10-year review of data from a tertiary health facility in northcentral Nigeria

*[1]Audu, E. S., [2]Bello, S. O., [3]Ablaku, A., [4]Audu, A. A., 5Bako, I. A., 5Mathew, M., and 6Anazodo, M. C.

1Department of Medical Microbiology, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

2Department of Paediatrics, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

3Pharmacy Unit, Special Treatment Clinic, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

4Department of Human Anatomy, Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

5Department of Community Medicine, Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

6Department of Community Medicine, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria *Correspondence to: estanamo@gmail.com; +2347083599740 ORCID: 0000-0002-3129-7754

Abstract:  

Background: Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the use of short-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) following a single risk exposure to a potential source of HIV infection. If commenced within 72 hours following exposure, PEP has been reported to be very effective in preventing replication and spread of the virus and therefore prevent acquisition of infection. PEP is recommended for exposures occurring in both occupational and non-occupational settings. The objectives of this study are to review the profile of patients and determine the reasons for accessing PEP services in our facility with a view to recommending evidence-based solutions and ultimately contributing to achieving zero transmission of HIV.   Continue reading “Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV: A 10-year review of data from a tertiary health facility in northcentral Nigeria”

Prevalence of asymptomatic significant bacteriuria and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of bacterial isolates in HIV-infected patients in Ilorin, Nigeria

*1Bale, M. I., 1Sinumvayo, J. P., 2Badmus, R. A., 3Babatunde, S. K., 4Aroyehun, A. B., and 1Adeyemo, R. O.

  1Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences,  University of Rwanda, Republic of Rwanda

2Department of Microbiology Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Kwara State University,  Malete, Kwara State, Nigeria

3Department of Biological Sciences, Kola Daisi University, Ibadan, Nigeria

4Department of Clinical Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, King’s College, Aberdeen, AB24 3FX, Scotland

*Correspondence to: muribaale@gmail.com; i.muritala@ur.ac.rw

Abstract:

 Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common type of infections worldwide, and this is usually preceded by asymptomatic significant bacteriuria (ASB). The emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacteria responsible for UTI makes this entity of public challenge, which has been fueled by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This study determined the prevalence of ASB and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of bacteria isolated from urine samples of selected HIV-infected patients in Ilorin, Nigeria. Continue reading “Prevalence of asymptomatic significant bacteriuria and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of bacterial isolates in HIV-infected patients in Ilorin, Nigeria”

Automated blood culture systems for isolation of bacterial pathogens of bloodstream infection: The experience of Bobo-Dioulasso Teaching Hospital, Burkina Faso

1Nagalo, A., 1Kaboré, O. D., 1Koulbou, M., 2Sanogo, B., 3Yehouenou, C. L., 5Traoré, I., 4Zoungrana, J., 4Poda, A., and 1Ouédraogo, A-S.

 1Department of Bacteriology Laboratory, Sourô Sanou University Hospital, 01 BP 676, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

2Department of Medical Paediatrics, Sourô Sanou University Hospital, 01 BP 676, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

3Mycobacteria Reference Laboratory (LRM), BP 817, Cotonou, and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Abomey Calavi, Cotonou, Bénin

4Department of Infectious Diseases, Sourô Sanou University Hospital, 01 BP 676, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

5Department of Intensive Cares, Sourô Sanou University Hospital, 01 BP 676, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

*Correspondence to: nagaloandre@gmail.com; +226 71407137

 

Abstract:

Background: Identification of the causative agent is an essential requirement for better treatment of bloodstream infection. The BacT/Alert 3D (BioMérieux, Marcy l’Étoile, France), is a blood culture system equipped with CO2 sensors to monitor the growth of microorganisms in blood culture bottles designed to optimize bacterial growth. The aim of this study was to determine the performance of this equipment in detecting bacterial pathogens from patients with bloodstream infection in the context of low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs), with Bobo-Dioulasso Teaching Hospital as a case study. Continue reading “Automated blood culture systems for isolation of bacterial pathogens of bloodstream infection: The experience of Bobo-Dioulasso Teaching Hospital, Burkina Faso”

COVID-19 and Dengue co-infection in paediatric patients: An endemic in a pandemic

Pavani, S., Srinath, M., Sultana, W., Rani, V. S., *Mehreen, S. F., and Ravi, V.

Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Osmania Medical College, Koti, Hyderabad-500095, Telangana, India

*Correspondence to: drfakihamehreen@gmail.com; +91 8500499786

Authors have equal contribution to the study

 

Abstract:

Background: The clinical presentation and outcome of COVID-19 are likely to be complicated by co-infection with other endemic viruses such as Dengue. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of co-infections of SARS-CoV-2 and Dengue viruses in paediatric patients from Osmania General Hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading “COVID-19 and Dengue co-infection in paediatric patients: An endemic in a pandemic”