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Prevalence and molecular detection of ESBL genes in uropathogens isolated from children and adolescents in a General Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria

*[1]Ekpunobi, N. F., 1Ugwu, M. C., 2Agu, K. C., 1Chukwunwejim, C. R., 3Nedum, C. H., 1Okoye, L. C., and 1Mgbedo, U. C.

1Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

2Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing, Faculty of Biosciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

3Department of Pharmacognosy and Traditional Medicine, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: nzubefavour34@gmail.com

Abstract:

 Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a significant global health concern with rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) posing a serious challenge to effective treatment. The increasing prevalence of extendedspectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing uropathogens further complicates management, as these bacteria are resistant to third-generation cephalosporins and other β-lactam antibiotics. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence and characterize ESBL genes in uropathogens isolated from children with UTIs in Ajeromi General Hospital, Ajegunle, Lagos, Nigeria.  Continue reading “Prevalence and molecular detection of ESBL genes in uropathogens isolated from children and adolescents in a General Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria”

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Phenotypic and molecular detection of methicillin-resistance and virulence factors in coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from patients with urinary tract infections in southeastern Nigeria

*1Ikeagwu, I. J., 2,3Oshim, I. O., 4Obi, C. M., 5Odeyemi, O., 4Urama, E. U., 6Ikeagwulonu, C. R., 2,7Azi, S. O., 2,7Aniokete, U. C., 4Okeke-Nwolisa, B. C., and 2,3Okekpa,S. I.

1Department of Applied Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Ebonyi State University, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, David Umahi Federal University of Health Science, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

3International Institute for Oncology and Cancer, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Microbiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

5Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Achiever University, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria

6Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

7International Institute of Infectious Disease, Biosafety and Biosecurity, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: judithfmc@gmail.com

Abstract:

Background: The emergence of antibiotic resistance among coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) is an important factor in nosocomial infections outcomes in the healthcare system. This study aimed to phenotypically detect methicillin resistance and genotypically detect mecA gene and other virulence markers in coagulasenegative staphylococci isolated from patients with suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital (AE-FUTHA), Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Continue reading “Phenotypic and molecular detection of methicillin-resistance and virulence factors in coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from patients with urinary tract infections in southeastern Nigeria”

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Diagnostic utility of p16 and Ki-67 immunohistochemical markers in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: Association with HPV status and histological grade

*1Ogunyemi, D. T., 1Sodiya, H. A., 2Somade, O., and 3Kawu, S.

1Department of Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital,               Sagamu, Nigeria

2Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, State Hospital, Abeokuta, Nigeria

3Department of Pathology, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: ogunyemidamilare@gmail.com; +2348140093814

 

Abstract:

 Background: Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is a precursor to cervical cancer, often associated with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Accurate diagnosis and grading of CIN are critical for effective management. Immunohistochemical markers like p16 and Ki-67 can enhance diagnostic precision by identifying oncogenic HPV-induced changes and cellular proliferation. This study evaluates the diagnostic utility of p16 and Ki-67 expression in CIN lesions and association with HPV status and histological grade.

Methodology: This retrospective study analyzed archived cervical biopsy samples diagnosed with CIN over a 5-year period in a tertiary care center in Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. Histological grading of CIN was confirmed, and immunohistochemical staining for p16 and Ki-67 was performed. HPV status was determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on the biopsy sample. Marker expression patterns were compared across CIN grades and with HPV status. Statistical association of p16 and Ki-67 expression with CIN grades and HPV was done using Chi-square or Fisher Exact test, with p<0.05 considered as statistical significance. Continue reading “Diagnostic utility of p16 and Ki-67 immunohistochemical markers in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: Association with HPV status and histological grade”

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Assessment of markers of platelet immune activation in malaria, tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus infection

*Akpan, P. A., Asemota, E. A., and Etura, J. E.

Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion Science, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science,

University of Calabar, PMB 115, Calabar, Nigeria.

*Correspondence to: apu0520@unical.edu.ng; pecu0520@gmail.com; +2348027321305

ORCID: 0000-0002-4571-8804

Abstract:

Background: Malaria, tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remain issues of public health concern in Nigeria. This study assessed parameters of platelet immune function with a view to understanding their role in the immune response against malaria, TB and HIV infection at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and Dr Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria.  Continue reading “Assessment of markers of platelet immune activation in malaria, tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus infection”

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Prevalence of enteric parasitic infection among people living with HIV in parts of southeastern Nigeria

*[1]Aniobi, C. C., and [2]Onyemelukwe, N. F.

1Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: ccaniobi@gmail.com; 08036979635

Abstract:

Background: Intestinal parasites in HIV/AIDS patients increase the risk of gastroenteritis, adding to the complexity of the disease. The interactions of intestinal parasites are one of the factors leading to HIV replication and progression of AIDS. Chronic immunosuppression caused by HIV infection makes people vulnerable to parasitic infestations, and this is associated with a CD4+ cell count of less than 200/mm3. This

study is aimed at determining the prevalence of enteric parasitic infection among people living with HIV in southeast Nigeria. Continue reading “Prevalence of enteric parasitic infection among people living with HIV in parts of southeastern Nigeria”

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Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp from stool samples of people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Maiduguri, Nigeria

*1,[1]Kadaura, M. U., 1Abubakar, J., 2Baba, A. S., 3Askira, M. U., 2Ali, K. B., 4Yakubu, Y. M., 4Daggash, B. B., 4Baba, S. A., 5Mohammed, Y., 2Gadzama, G. B., and 4Zailani, S. B.

1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Federal University of    Health Sciences Azare, Bauchi State, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

3Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital,  Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria                          5Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: Umulsan4maryam@gmail.com, Mairo.kadaura@fuhsa.edu.ng,.

Abstract:

Background: Cryptosporidium is an important cause of diarrhea in immuno-compromised individuals including children. Recent advances in molecular techniques have led to the discovery of different species that are more commonly associated with diarrhea. This study aimed at isolating and characterizing the Cryptosporidium spp among HIV patients with diarrhea in Maiduguri, Nigeria. Continue reading “Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp from stool samples of people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Maiduguri, Nigeria”

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Cytomegalovirus co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus among children in State Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

*[1]Bamisaye, O. E., [2],[3],[4]Omoruyi, E. C., 1Badmus, M. M., 1Osuide, M. E., and 5Salami, O. L.

1Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

2Institute of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria      3Clinical Virology Laboratory, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Edo University, Iyamho, Nigeria 5Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: bamisayeseyi@gmail.com

Abstract:

Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) poses significant global challenges with possible complications of disease progression in children and adolescents, especially in resource-limited settings. This study investigates the prevalence of CMV among children living with HIV as well as their viral load dynamics and immunological status correlates. Continue reading “Cytomegalovirus co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus among children in State Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria”

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A mini-review of the global implications of the emerging SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant: Epidemiology, mutations, and mitigation strategies

1,2Ebede, S. O., 1,2Emeribe, S. C., 1,2Nwafia, I. N., 1,2Okeke, U. C., and *1,2Orabueze, I. N.

1Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla Campus, Enugu, Nigeria

2Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria*

Correspondence to: Iborabueze@gmail.com; ORCID: 0009-0005-8369-1568

Abstract:

The newly emerged SARS- CoV-2 XEC subvariant (XEC) is a global public health concern. Since its first detection in May 2024, it has spread rapidly to involve more than 45 countries globally. The World Health Organization and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention designated XEC a variant under monitoring (VUM), highlighting its global concern. XEC sub-variant is a descendant of the omicron lineage and a recombinant product of K.S.1.1 and KP3.3. Increased infectivity, enhanced immune evasion, and immune resistance, have been linked to specific spike protein mutations, S: F59S and S: T22N, alongside Apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide 3 (APOBEC3)-driven mutations that facilitate immune escape and viral survival. Like its predecessor, the novel SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant exhibits flu-like symptoms. However, there is no evidence that it causes more severe illness than previously circulating Omicron variants. Nevertheless, the high reproduction number (Re) of the XEC variant suggests a higher chance of out competing the other major lineages. Wastewater surveillance has shown that XEC variant circulation is approximately 2 to 19 times higher than the number of cases that have been identified. This suggests that underreporting, decreased testing and declining genomic surveillance in many countries may be masking the true epidemiological burden of XEC. Mitigation strategies must prioritize mass vaccination campaigns, incorporating updated 2024-2025 vaccines and infection prevention and control measures. Sadly, vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge to the achievement of herd immunity. To address this, targeted public enlightenment campaigns are essential. Additionally, proactive and collaborative global efforts are necessary to curb the spread of emerging variants like XEC. Strengthened IPC practices, and sustained genomic surveillance will be critical in averting future waves and mitigating public health impacts. This review serves to provide insight into the XEC variant and call for action to prevent another looming pandemic. Continue reading “A mini-review of the global implications of the emerging SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant: Epidemiology, mutations, and mitigation strategies”

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Recent update on the mechanism and epidemiology of metallo-β-lactamases in nosocomial infections: A mini review

*Eze, I. F 0009-0007-7286-9273., Adeoye-Isijola, M. O 0000-0002-3186-5432., Adefisoye, M. A 0000-0002-4957-4609., and Olajuyigbe, O. O 0000-0002-7889-0416

Department of Microbiology, School of Science and Technology, Babcock University, Ogun State, Nigeria *Correspondence to: ezeifyfaith@gmail.com

Abstract:
Metallo-β-lactamases are different types of biological enzymes that breakdown a broad spectrum of beta-lactam antibiotics such as carbapenems. Antibiotic resistance exhibited by many Gram-negative bacteria is due to acquisition of genes encoding these enzymes, which underscores their importance in antibiotic resistance and has led to an increase in nosocomial infections caused by multi-drug-resistant pathogens. This review analyzes recent updates on the mechanism of antibiotic resistance and epidemiology of metallo-β- lactamases in nosocomial infections. Carbapenem antibiotics are regarded as effective and reserve antibiotics for the treatment of multidrug-resistant bacteria infections. Currently, there is paucity of inhibitors that prevent the activities of metallo beta-lactamase clinically. Carbapenem resistance in bacteria is a global health issue, associated with increased morbidity and mortality in the healthcare setting. There is a need for continuous research on metallo-β-lactamases inhibitors, rational use of carbapenems and appropriate infection control measures in order to curb the increase in infections. This mini-review is aimed to provide a broader scope on the current trends of antimicrobial resistance in metallo-β-lactamase-associated nosocomial infections. This will lead to a better understanding of the public health implication of the unabated spread of these infections, the need for judicious utilization of the limited therapeutic options, resulting to efficient antimicrobial stewardship. Continue reading “Recent update on the mechanism and epidemiology of metallo-β-lactamases in nosocomial infections: A mini review”

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Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us

Authors:
Kamran Abbasi, Editor-in-Chief, BMJ; Parveen Ali, Editor-in-Chief, International Nursing Review; Virginia Barbour, Editor-in-Chief, Medical Journal of Australia; Marion Birch, Editor-in-Chief, Medact & University College London; Inga Blum, At-large Board Member, IPPNW; Peter C. Doherty, 1996 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine; Andy Haines, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine; Ira Helfand, Past President, IPPNW; Richard Horton, Editor-in-Chief, The Lancet; Kati Juva, Co-President, IPPNW; Jose F. Lapena Jr, Vice-President, WAME; Robert Mash, Editor-in-Chief, African Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine; Olga Mironova, Co-President, IPPNW; Arun Mitra, Past President, IPPNW; Carlos Monteiro, Editor-in-Chief, Revista de Saúde Pública; Elena N. Naumova, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Public Health Policy; David Onazi, Co-President, IPPNW; Tilman Ruff, Past President, IPPNW; Peush Sahni, Editor-in-Chief, National Medical Journal of India; James Tumwine, Editor-in-Chief, African Health Sciences; Carlos Umaña, Co-President, IPPNW; Paul Yonga, Editor-in-Chief, East African Medical Journal Continue reading “Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us”