E. Too, Rahma Udu, F. Kimani, Benard O. Osero, Omar Sabah
Background: Over 80 countries worldwide have now implemented WHO recommendations to use Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy as a first-line treatment for Plasmodium falciparum malaria. The sexual stage of P. falciparum is responsible for the transmission of malarial parasites to infectious mosquitoes. Studies on gametocytes are generally based on microscopic detection, which is not sensitive, and there is a need for more sensitive molecular techniques that can detect and quantify gametocytes at densities as low as 0.02 to 0.1 gametocytes per micro-litre. The objective of this study was to determine the clearance rates of gametocytes after AL and DHA&P in uncomplicated P. falciparum and to compare the effectiveness of microscopy and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in gametocyte detection. Methods: In a randomised controlled clinical trial of samples collected, gametocyte densities were quantified by microscopy by counting against 500 leukocytes in the thick smear converted to numbers of parasites per micro-litre by assuming a standard count of 800 leukocytes per micro-litre of blood after staining with 10% Giemsa stain and by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction using primers specific to the pfs25 gene. Results: There was no significant difference between the drug’s gametocyte clearance (p<.082). The drugs cleared gametocytes in infected patients by day 28 as detected by microscopy. There was a significant difference in the detection of gametocytes by RT-PCR and microscopy (p<.001). Conclusion: This study showed that Artemether-Lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin piperaquine have gametocytocidal effects on P. falciparum and the study on the clearance of gametocytes using both artemether-lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin piperaquine may be carried out using a larger sample size for policy implementation. The reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction is more effective than microscopy in detecting low levels of gametocytes and the pfs25 gene can be used in the detection of gametocytes in the field to monitor the clearance of gametocytes.
{"title":"Effectiveness of Artemether Lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin Piperaquine in Clearance of Gametocytes in Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum Malaria in Tiwi Kenya","authors":"E. Too, Rahma Udu, F. Kimani, Benard O. Osero, Omar Sabah","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.61","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.61","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Over 80 countries worldwide have now implemented WHO recommendations to use Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy as a first-line treatment for Plasmodium falciparum malaria. The sexual stage of P. falciparum is responsible for the transmission of malarial parasites to infectious mosquitoes. Studies on gametocytes are generally based on microscopic detection, which is not sensitive, and there is a need for more sensitive molecular techniques that can detect and quantify gametocytes at densities as low as 0.02 to 0.1 gametocytes per micro-litre. The objective of this study was to determine the clearance rates of gametocytes after AL and DHA&P in uncomplicated P. falciparum and to compare the effectiveness of microscopy and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in gametocyte detection. Methods: In a randomised controlled clinical trial of samples collected, gametocyte densities were quantified by microscopy by counting against 500 leukocytes in the thick smear converted to numbers of parasites per micro-litre by assuming a standard count of 800 leukocytes per micro-litre of blood after staining with 10% Giemsa stain and by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction using primers specific to the pfs25 gene. Results: There was no significant difference between the drug’s gametocyte clearance (p<.082). The drugs cleared gametocytes in infected patients by day 28 as detected by microscopy. There was a significant difference in the detection of gametocytes by RT-PCR and microscopy (p<.001). Conclusion: This study showed that Artemether-Lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin piperaquine have gametocytocidal effects on P. falciparum and the study on the clearance of gametocytes using both artemether-lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin piperaquine may be carried out using a larger sample size for policy implementation. The reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction is more effective than microscopy in detecting low levels of gametocytes and the pfs25 gene can be used in the detection of gametocytes in the field to monitor the clearance of gametocytes.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"78564687","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a dynamic and a rapidly increasing health concern worldwide. However, it is unevenly distributed with limited data from the developing countries. In Tanzania, it is estimated that there is a higher prevalence of AMR pathogens among hospitalised patients in tertiary care hospitals than in lower level health facilities. This is associated with longer hospitalisation, increased health care costs and higher mortality rates. The aim of this study was to determine the aetiology and AMR pattern of bacteria isolates from adult patients admitted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre. Methodology: A total of 487 participants were enrolled in a cross sectional study conducted from April 2018 to March 2019. Bacteria isolates were from blood 262 (52.4%), urine 147 (29.4%) and wounds 91 (18.2%). Conventional methods were used to determine bacteria species while antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by using the disc diffusion method. Results: The isolates were predominantly Gram-negative bacteria with Escherichia coli, the most common pathogen in blood 55 (21%) and urine 45 (30.6%) while Pseudomonas aureginosa18 (19.8%) was the most common isolate from wounds. There was 100% resistance to Ampicilin among E.coli, Klebsiella spp and Proteus spp.. Gentamycin resistance was high in E.coli 57/90 (56.7%), Klebsiella spp 27/58 (46.6%) and P. aureginosa 24/54 (44.4%) while resistance to Amikacin was low.There was high resistance to Ceftriaxone in E.coli 44/62 (70.9%) and Klebsiella spp21/36 (58.3%) and resistance to Ciprofloxacin was 67/92 (72.8%) and 26/55 (47.3%) in E.coli and Klebsiella spp respectively. A relatively lower Carbapenem resistance was observed. Conclusion: There is an alarming high AMR to commonly used antibiotics, leaving a few available options, which are more expensive and not easily available. Therefore there is an urgent need to strengthen efforts to curb AMR in this setting while focusing treatment on the local culture and sensitivity pattern.
{"title":"Aetiology and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Bacteria Pathogens from Hospitalised Adult Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital in North Eastern Tanzania","authors":"Dorothy A. Mkinga, Furaha Lyamuya","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.59","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.59","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a dynamic and a rapidly increasing health concern worldwide. However, it is unevenly distributed with limited data from the developing countries. In Tanzania, it is estimated that there is a higher prevalence of AMR pathogens among hospitalised patients in tertiary care hospitals than in lower level health facilities. This is associated with longer hospitalisation, increased health care costs and higher mortality rates. The aim of this study was to determine the aetiology and AMR pattern of bacteria isolates from adult patients admitted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre. Methodology: A total of 487 participants were enrolled in a cross sectional study conducted from April 2018 to March 2019. Bacteria isolates were from blood 262 (52.4%), urine 147 (29.4%) and wounds 91 (18.2%). Conventional methods were used to determine bacteria species while antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by using the disc diffusion method. Results: The isolates were predominantly Gram-negative bacteria with Escherichia coli, the most common pathogen in blood 55 (21%) and urine 45 (30.6%) while Pseudomonas aureginosa18 (19.8%) was the most common isolate from wounds. There was 100% resistance to Ampicilin among E.coli, Klebsiella spp and Proteus spp.. Gentamycin resistance was high in E.coli 57/90 (56.7%), Klebsiella spp 27/58 (46.6%) and P. aureginosa 24/54 (44.4%) while resistance to Amikacin was low.There was high resistance to Ceftriaxone in E.coli 44/62 (70.9%) and Klebsiella spp21/36 (58.3%) and resistance to Ciprofloxacin was 67/92 (72.8%) and 26/55 (47.3%) in E.coli and Klebsiella spp respectively. A relatively lower Carbapenem resistance was observed. Conclusion: There is an alarming high AMR to commonly used antibiotics, leaving a few available options, which are more expensive and not easily available. Therefore there is an urgent need to strengthen efforts to curb AMR in this setting while focusing treatment on the local culture and sensitivity pattern.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"21 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"79318651","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hedmon Okella, C. O. Ajayi, Hilda Ikiriza, Andrew G. Mtewa, Bruhan Kaggwa, J. Aber, C. Kato, P. O. Engeu
Background: The skin mucus layer of fish is endowed with biologics including, Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that offer a first line of defence against pathogens. Such peptides can either inhibit bacterial growth or completely kill the bacteria and hence are regarded as a viable alternative to traditional antibiotics, in addressing the ever-increasing incidences of antimicrobial resistance. However, one of the major hurdles to AMPs use is their poor haemolytic profile. As a result, a thorough evaluation of prospective AMPs’ bacterial cell membrane disruption and hemolytic potentials in the early phases of drug discovery is critical. The current study presented cell membrane destruction as well as hemo-compatibility of antimicrobial peptides previously isolated from skin mucus of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus. Methods: A previously isolated antimicrobial peptide in the skin mucus of African catfish, C. gariepinus were profiled using 15% Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate-Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The electrical conductivity and alkaline phosphatase assays were utilised to measure bacterial cell envelope lysis activity as a classical mode of action of the antimicrobial peptides. Afterwards, fresh Rabbit blood cells were then utilised for in vitro hemolytic assay. Results: The peptides were found to be about 5 kDa molecular weight with, ability to damage the bacterial cell envelope causing significant leakage in periplasmic alkaline phosphatase enzyme and cytoplasmic electrolytes. Even at the highest peptide extract concentration of 100 μg/mL, no significant hemolysis was observed on the fresh rabbit blood cells [3.63%;P>.05], signifying their safety on normal mammalian cells. Conclusion: The findings of this study pointed out that antimicrobial peptides in skin mucus of C. gariepinus are potentially safe source of antimicrobial drug leads; however, further studies are still required to search for possibly maximum dose that is safe to host cells but still effective against infecting bacteria.
{"title":"Bacterial Cell Envelope Lysis and Hemotoxicity of Peptides Previously isolated From African Catfish, Clarias gariepinus","authors":"Hedmon Okella, C. O. Ajayi, Hilda Ikiriza, Andrew G. Mtewa, Bruhan Kaggwa, J. Aber, C. Kato, P. O. Engeu","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.66","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.66","url":null,"abstract":"Background: The skin mucus layer of fish is endowed with biologics including, Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that offer a first line of defence against pathogens. Such peptides can either inhibit bacterial growth or completely kill the bacteria and hence are regarded as a viable alternative to traditional antibiotics, in addressing the ever-increasing incidences of antimicrobial resistance. However, one of the major hurdles to AMPs use is their poor haemolytic profile. As a result, a thorough evaluation of prospective AMPs’ bacterial cell membrane disruption and hemolytic potentials in the early phases of drug discovery is critical. The current study presented cell membrane destruction as well as hemo-compatibility of antimicrobial peptides previously isolated from skin mucus of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus. Methods: A previously isolated antimicrobial peptide in the skin mucus of African catfish, C. gariepinus were profiled using 15% Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate-Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The electrical conductivity and alkaline phosphatase assays were utilised to measure bacterial cell envelope lysis activity as a classical mode of action of the antimicrobial peptides. Afterwards, fresh Rabbit blood cells were then utilised for in vitro hemolytic assay. Results: The peptides were found to be about 5 kDa molecular weight with, ability to damage the bacterial cell envelope causing significant leakage in periplasmic alkaline phosphatase enzyme and cytoplasmic electrolytes. Even at the highest peptide extract concentration of 100 μg/mL, no significant hemolysis was observed on the fresh rabbit blood cells [3.63%;P>.05], signifying their safety on normal mammalian cells. Conclusion: The findings of this study pointed out that antimicrobial peptides in skin mucus of C. gariepinus are potentially safe source of antimicrobial drug leads; however, further studies are still required to search for possibly maximum dose that is safe to host cells but still effective against infecting bacteria.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"100 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"85789175","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Fat-hiya Abdi Hussein, Akili Mawazo, J. J. Mwakibinga, Rosemary Malya, R. Bakar, Adonira Saro, D. Kajeguka
Background: Antibiotic self-medication has been on the rise in different parts of the world. Antibiotic self-medication causes excessive antibiotic exposure to humans which is associated with many health risks including antibiotic resistance. The objective of this study was to assess practice and determine the prevalence of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the practice and knowledge of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students. A total of 300 undergraduate students were purposively sampled. The association between categorical predictors and antibiotic self-medication waspresented as Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CIs) using logistic regression. Result: The prevalence of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students is 191(63.7%) with amoxicillin 103(53.9%) being the most used antibiotic for treatment of respiratory disorders 109(57.1%) and gastrointestinal disorders 50(26.2%). Pharmacy is the major source of antibiotics used for self-medication 165(86.4%). Delayed/queue in seeking hospitals services was the main reason for practicing antibiotic self-medication 74(38.7%). Conclusion: The study observed a high prevalence of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students. This calls for immediate implementation of public health programs aimed at increasing awareness of consequences that may results from antibiotic self-medication. At the policy-making level, there is an urgent need to legislate and enforce laws restricting access to antibiotics in Tanzania.
{"title":"Practice and Prevalence of Antibiotic Self-Medication among Undergraduate Students at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tanzania","authors":"Fat-hiya Abdi Hussein, Akili Mawazo, J. J. Mwakibinga, Rosemary Malya, R. Bakar, Adonira Saro, D. Kajeguka","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.52","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.52","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Antibiotic self-medication has been on the rise in different parts of the world. Antibiotic self-medication causes excessive antibiotic exposure to humans which is associated with many health risks including antibiotic resistance. The objective of this study was to assess practice and determine the prevalence of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the practice and knowledge of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students. A total of 300 undergraduate students were purposively sampled. The association between categorical predictors and antibiotic self-medication waspresented as Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CIs) using logistic regression. Result: The prevalence of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students is 191(63.7%) with amoxicillin 103(53.9%) being the most used antibiotic for treatment of respiratory disorders 109(57.1%) and gastrointestinal disorders 50(26.2%). Pharmacy is the major source of antibiotics used for self-medication 165(86.4%). Delayed/queue in seeking hospitals services was the main reason for practicing antibiotic self-medication 74(38.7%). Conclusion: The study observed a high prevalence of antibiotic self-medication among undergraduate students. This calls for immediate implementation of public health programs aimed at increasing awareness of consequences that may results from antibiotic self-medication. At the policy-making level, there is an urgent need to legislate and enforce laws restricting access to antibiotics in Tanzania.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"81 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"90498340","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Irénée Nshimiyimana, Thierry Habyarimana, Callixte Yadufashije, F. Niyonzima
Background: To respond to the high demand of hospitals for the lack of enough platelets, in 2015, Rwanda national centre for blood transfusion introduced apheresis to produce more platelets. The high increase of impaired bone marrow among cancer patients was declared to be the main cause of the urgent demand of transfused platelets. The aim of this study was to describe the practice of platelets transfusion at Butaro cancer centre. Methodology: A retrospective study of 238 patients who received platelets transfusions at Butaro Cancer Centre of Excellence within a period of 24 months was carried out. Laboratory register books for blood transfusion, patients’ chart files and open clinic patient information software were used to identify all patients who received platelets transfusion at BCCOE during the study period. A collection form was used to record all the required data. Results: A sum of 209 (87.8%) of receivers of platelets transfusion were cancer patients. Majority of those cancer patients had acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Out of 1318 platelets units requested, only 925(70.2%) were received of which 573(43.4%) were O Rhesus positive. Among diagnosed cancers, Lymphomas (Chi square =7;P=.01) was statistically significant to be associated with the increase rate of platelets after transfusion. The combination of all diagnosed cancers (Chi square=11;P=.03) were associated with the increase rate of platelets after transfusion. Conclusion: Regardless the indication of platelets transfusion, the increase of platelet count was observed after each transfusion. Ministry of health has to ensure the availability of platelets for a good care of thrombocytopenic patients of whom cancer patients are the most.
{"title":"Platelets Transfusion Practice at Butaro Cancer Centre of Excellence in Rwanda","authors":"Irénée Nshimiyimana, Thierry Habyarimana, Callixte Yadufashije, F. Niyonzima","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.65","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.65","url":null,"abstract":"Background: To respond to the high demand of hospitals for the lack of enough platelets, in 2015, Rwanda national centre for blood transfusion introduced apheresis to produce more platelets. The high increase of impaired bone marrow among cancer patients was declared to be the main cause of the urgent demand of transfused platelets. The aim of this study was to describe the practice of platelets transfusion at Butaro cancer centre. Methodology: A retrospective study of 238 patients who received platelets transfusions at Butaro Cancer Centre of Excellence within a period of 24 months was carried out. Laboratory register books for blood transfusion, patients’ chart files and open clinic patient information software were used to identify all patients who received platelets transfusion at BCCOE during the study period. A collection form was used to record all the required data. Results: A sum of 209 (87.8%) of receivers of platelets transfusion were cancer patients. Majority of those cancer patients had acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Out of 1318 platelets units requested, only 925(70.2%) were received of which 573(43.4%) were O Rhesus positive. Among diagnosed cancers, Lymphomas (Chi square =7;P=.01) was statistically significant to be associated with the increase rate of platelets after transfusion. The combination of all diagnosed cancers (Chi square=11;P=.03) were associated with the increase rate of platelets after transfusion. Conclusion: Regardless the indication of platelets transfusion, the increase of platelet count was observed after each transfusion. Ministry of health has to ensure the availability of platelets for a good care of thrombocytopenic patients of whom cancer patients are the most.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"78 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"83897849","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Catherine Nuwagira, G. Kagoro, J. Adriko, Julius Tumusiime, A. Weisheit, E. A. Olet, C. Tolo
Background: Schkuhria pinnata L., is an antimalarial plant that is highly threatened by the destructive harvesting methods and its collection largely relies on wild sources, that are also exposed to over-exploitation and habitat destruction. Aim of the study: The study aimed at figuring out where S. pinnata grows best and what its growth requirements are; in order to promote the informed cultivation practices and soil selection as a viable alternative to wild harvesting. The agronomical soil nutrient status of S. pinnata, and how it relates to the agro-morphological traits and plant ionome, clues on fertiliser formulations for soils where S. pinnata does not shrive were reported. Methods: A randomised complete block design was employed in agronomical experimental plots in different agro-ecological zones that host Bushenyi, Ntungamo and Kasese districts. Standard procedures for soil and plant analysis were used to analyse soil physicochemical and plant ionome parameters while agro-morphological traits were physically evaluated. Results: Results demonstrated that soil physicochemical characteristics differed significantly across the study sites (p ≤.05). S. pinnata significantly performed better in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH between 5.87-7.25) in Kasese than in other sites. S. pinnata harvested from Kasese had the largest total leaf area (mean = 31.43 ± 2.41cm2) and the highest plant biomass (mean = 7.65 ± 0.64 g). Conclusion: The study concluded that S. pinnata grew best in slightly acidic to neutral, sandy loam, non-saline soils of Kasese in Western Medium-High Farmland
{"title":"Soil Mineral Status, Plant Ionome and Agro-Morphological Traits of Schkuhria Pinnata (L.), An Antimalarial Herb: Implications for Cultivation","authors":"Catherine Nuwagira, G. Kagoro, J. Adriko, Julius Tumusiime, A. Weisheit, E. A. Olet, C. Tolo","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.67","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.67","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Schkuhria pinnata L., is an antimalarial plant that is highly threatened by the destructive harvesting methods and its collection largely relies on wild sources, that are also exposed to over-exploitation and habitat destruction. Aim of the study: The study aimed at figuring out where S. pinnata grows best and what its growth requirements are; in order to promote the informed cultivation practices and soil selection as a viable alternative to wild harvesting. The agronomical soil nutrient status of S. pinnata, and how it relates to the agro-morphological traits and plant ionome, clues on fertiliser formulations for soils where S. pinnata does not shrive were reported. Methods: A randomised complete block design was employed in agronomical experimental plots in different agro-ecological zones that host Bushenyi, Ntungamo and Kasese districts. Standard procedures for soil and plant analysis were used to analyse soil physicochemical and plant ionome parameters while agro-morphological traits were physically evaluated. Results: Results demonstrated that soil physicochemical characteristics differed significantly across the study sites (p ≤.05). S. pinnata significantly performed better in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH between 5.87-7.25) in Kasese than in other sites. S. pinnata harvested from Kasese had the largest total leaf area (mean = 31.43 ± 2.41cm2) and the highest plant biomass (mean = 7.65 ± 0.64 g). Conclusion: The study concluded that S. pinnata grew best in slightly acidic to neutral, sandy loam, non-saline soils of Kasese in Western Medium-High Farmland","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"30 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"74180260","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Veneranda M. Bwana, Leonard E. G. Mboera, S. Mfinanga, E. Simulundu, C. Michelo
Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) pandemic has become a serious public health concern worldwide. The prevalence of paediatric HIV infection is largely unknown in many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of HIV infection among under-5 years children in Muheza District, Tanzania. Methods: A facility-based study among mothers/guardians with their under-5 years children exposed to HIV infection was conducted from June 2015 to June 2016. Information on HIV status, socio-demographic and other family characteristics was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using STATA version 13.0. Results: A total of 576 HIV-exposed under-5 years children were recruited together with their respective mothers/guardians. The HIV prevalence among under-5 years children was 10.6% (95% CI: 8.1-13.1%). The burden of HIV infection was observed among older children aged 25 to 59 months (AOR= 8.0, 95% CI 2.5-26.0) than in the younger children. There was a four-fold (AOR=3.9, 95% CI 1.7-9.1) risk of HIV infection among children born to mothers of unknown HIV status at conception than among children born to mothers with known HIV status. The odds of HIV infection were higher among children who were delivered from home (AOR=2.6, 95% CI 1.0-6.5), received mixed feeding (AOR=2.4, 95% CI 1.2-4.9), and those living far from a health facility (AOR=3.0, 95% CI 1.4-6.5). Conclusion: The prevalence of HIV among under-5 years children in Muheza is higher among older children. The high prevalence is associated with being born to mothers with unknown HIV status at conception, received mixed feeding, home delivery, and living far from the health facility. Campaigns that provide health educational massages addressing risk factors of HIV need to be emphasised in order to promote the control and prevention of HIV among children.
背景:人类免疫缺陷病毒(HIV)的大流行已成为世界范围内严重的公共卫生问题。在撒哈拉以南非洲的许多国家，儿童艾滋病毒感染的流行程度在很大程度上是未知的。我们的目的是确定坦桑尼亚Muheza地区5岁以下儿童中艾滋病毒感染的流行率和预测因素。方法:于2015年6月至2016年6月对5岁以下儿童暴露于HIV感染的母亲/监护人进行调查。使用结构化问卷收集了有关艾滋病毒状况、社会人口统计和其他家庭特征的信息。使用STATA 13.0版本进行数据分析。结果:共招募了576名5岁以下艾滋病毒暴露儿童及其母亲/监护人。5岁以下儿童的艾滋病毒感染率为10.6% (95% CI: 8.1-13.1%)。年龄在25 ~ 59月龄的较大儿童的HIV感染负担高于年龄较小的儿童(AOR= 8.0, 95% CI 2.5 ~ 26.0)。怀孕时艾滋病毒感染状况未知的母亲所生的儿童感染艾滋病毒的风险是已知艾滋病毒感染状况母亲所生儿童的四倍(AOR=3.9, 95% CI 1.7-9.1)。在家中出生的儿童(AOR=2.6, 95% CI 1.0-6.5)、接受混合喂养的儿童(AOR=2.4, 95% CI 1.2-4.9)和远离卫生机构的儿童(AOR=3.0, 95% CI 1.4-6.5)中，感染艾滋病毒的几率更高。结论:穆赫扎地区5岁以下儿童艾滋病毒感染率高于大龄儿童。高流行率与母亲在怀孕时感染艾滋病毒情况不明、接受混合喂养、在家分娩以及居住地点远离卫生设施有关。必须强调针对艾滋病毒风险因素提供健康教育按摩的运动，以促进在儿童中控制和预防艾滋病毒。
{"title":"Prevalence and Predictors of HIV Infection among Under FiveYear Children Born to HIV Positive Mothers in Muheza District, North-Eastern Tanzania","authors":"Veneranda M. Bwana, Leonard E. G. Mboera, S. Mfinanga, E. Simulundu, C. Michelo","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.56","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.56","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) pandemic has become a serious public health concern worldwide. The prevalence of paediatric HIV infection is largely unknown in many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of HIV infection among under-5 years children in Muheza District, Tanzania. Methods: A facility-based study among mothers/guardians with their under-5 years children exposed to HIV infection was conducted from June 2015 to June 2016. Information on HIV status, socio-demographic and other family characteristics was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using STATA version 13.0. Results: A total of 576 HIV-exposed under-5 years children were recruited together with their respective mothers/guardians. The HIV prevalence among under-5 years children was 10.6% (95% CI: 8.1-13.1%). The burden of HIV infection was observed among older children aged 25 to 59 months (AOR= 8.0, 95% CI 2.5-26.0) than in the younger children. There was a four-fold (AOR=3.9, 95% CI 1.7-9.1) risk of HIV infection among children born to mothers of unknown HIV status at conception than among children born to mothers with known HIV status. The odds of HIV infection were higher among children who were delivered from home (AOR=2.6, 95% CI 1.0-6.5), received mixed feeding (AOR=2.4, 95% CI 1.2-4.9), and those living far from a health facility (AOR=3.0, 95% CI 1.4-6.5). Conclusion: The prevalence of HIV among under-5 years children in Muheza is higher among older children. The high prevalence is associated with being born to mothers with unknown HIV status at conception, received mixed feeding, home delivery, and living far from the health facility. Campaigns that provide health educational massages addressing risk factors of HIV need to be emphasised in order to promote the control and prevention of HIV among children.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"1 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"75736248","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
R. S. Osman, R. Damji, Zainab Fidaali, N. Walli, M. Noorani
Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a severe infection of the central nervous system that has high mortality. The disease predominantly affects young children and those who are immuncompromised. Strokes have been reported in about one-third of children with tuberculous meningitis and are associated with poor clinical outcomes. Case report: A previously healthy 14-year-old girl living in Dar es Salam, Tanzania presented with one month history of weight loss associated with weakness, loss of appetite, apathy; without respiratory symptoms. Anti-TB therapy was started, based on radiological findings of the chest which showed multiple patchy centrilobular nodules with linear branching pattern bilaterally, mediastinum lymph node enlargement with punctate calcification. She then became aphasic and developed right-sided hemiparesis. Brain imaging showed infarction, hydrocephalus and meningeal enhancement. Diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) with left sided ischaemic stroke was made and dexamethasone was added to her regimen. Treatment and rehabilitation was continued for 12 months with minimal improvement. Conclusion: Tuberculous meningitis can present with non-specific features and has grave outcomes. Stroke is an uncommon complication in older immunocompetent children and results in severe morbidity. A high index of suspicion is required in adolescents with neurological symptoms that can be confused with behavioural symptoms.
{"title":"Tuberculous Meningitis Presenting with Stroke in an Immunocompetent Adolescent: A Case Report","authors":"R. S. Osman, R. Damji, Zainab Fidaali, N. Walli, M. Noorani","doi":"10.24248/easci.v4i1.54","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci.v4i1.54","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a severe infection of the central nervous system that has high mortality. The disease predominantly affects young children and those who are immuncompromised. Strokes have been reported in about one-third of children with tuberculous meningitis and are associated with poor clinical outcomes. Case report: A previously healthy 14-year-old girl living in Dar es Salam, Tanzania presented with one month history of weight loss associated with weakness, loss of appetite, apathy; without respiratory symptoms. Anti-TB therapy was started, based on radiological findings of the chest which showed multiple patchy centrilobular nodules with linear branching pattern bilaterally, mediastinum lymph node enlargement with punctate calcification. She then became aphasic and developed right-sided hemiparesis. Brain imaging showed infarction, hydrocephalus and meningeal enhancement. Diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) with left sided ischaemic stroke was made and dexamethasone was added to her regimen. Treatment and rehabilitation was continued for 12 months with minimal improvement. Conclusion: Tuberculous meningitis can present with non-specific features and has grave outcomes. Stroke is an uncommon complication in older immunocompetent children and results in severe morbidity. A high index of suspicion is required in adolescents with neurological symptoms that can be confused with behavioural symptoms.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"23 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2022-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"87627202","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2020-04-24DOI: 10.24248/easci-d-18-00002
Mutijima Jean Berchmas, N. Francois
Background: Liver complications show specific processes like hepatoxicity associated with drugs, primary neoplasm, or hepatotropic virus infections. Different markers based on laboratory testing help to diagnose and monitor liver related conditions. Mostly used tests are classed in a set known as hepatic panel or liver profile mainly consisting of body enzymes.Objective: The objective of the present study was to ascertain the role of gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay in enzymatic panel for hepatobiliary function assessment among patients attending Kibungo hospital.Methods: Two hundred twenty-five clients were included in the study. Demographic data were collected from December 2016 to March 2017. Blood sera were also collected and tested for serum GGT and ALP levels. Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) was used in data analysis.Results: Seventy-four point seven per cent of clients had normal GGT whereas 63.1% had normal ALP. The 0.9% of clients comprised low levels of ALP. The means were 53 and 153 U/L for GGT and ALP, respectively. Fifty per cent of alcohol consumers’ population had elevated GGT and ALP. An increase of 69.2 and 61.5% for GGT and ALP, respectively was observed in smokers’ population. The subpopulation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) was the most with elevated GGT and ALP levels. In HIV population, serum GGT and ALP were raised at 31.1 and 37.8%, respectively. In fact, hepatitis B virus (HBV), HCV, and HIV patients are clinically considered as immuno-compromised people. Alcohol consumption and smoking were also found to increase GGT and ALP concentrations. In addition, GGT and ALP levels were simultaneously elevated in 19.6% of the clients, indicating the frequency of cholestatic liver disease.Conclusion: Elevated GGT and ALP revealed the occurrence of cholestasis among study participants due to factors that elevate serum GGT and ALP levels as a result of dysfunctional liver conditions. In hospital laboratories, GGT and ALP should always be included in the panel of tests for screening and bio-monitoring liver related conditions in Rwanda.
{"title":"Role of Gamma Glutamyltransferase and Alkaline Phosphatase Assay in Enzymatic Panel for Hepatobiliary Function in Patients Attending Kibungo Hospital, Rwanda","authors":"Mutijima Jean Berchmas, N. Francois","doi":"10.24248/easci-d-18-00002","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci-d-18-00002","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Liver complications show specific processes like hepatoxicity associated with drugs, primary neoplasm, or hepatotropic virus infections. Different markers based on laboratory testing help to diagnose and monitor liver related conditions. Mostly used tests are classed in a set known as hepatic panel or liver profile mainly consisting of body enzymes.Objective: The objective of the present study was to ascertain the role of gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay in enzymatic panel for hepatobiliary function assessment among patients attending Kibungo hospital.Methods: Two hundred twenty-five clients were included in the study. Demographic data were collected from December 2016 to March 2017. Blood sera were also collected and tested for serum GGT and ALP levels. Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) was used in data analysis.Results: Seventy-four point seven per cent of clients had normal GGT whereas 63.1% had normal ALP. The 0.9% of clients comprised low levels of ALP. The means were 53 and 153 U/L for GGT and ALP, respectively. Fifty per cent of alcohol consumers’ population had elevated GGT and ALP. An increase of 69.2 and 61.5% for GGT and ALP, respectively was observed in smokers’ population. The subpopulation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) was the most with elevated GGT and ALP levels. In HIV population, serum GGT and ALP were raised at 31.1 and 37.8%, respectively. In fact, hepatitis B virus (HBV), HCV, and HIV patients are clinically considered as immuno-compromised people. Alcohol consumption and smoking were also found to increase GGT and ALP concentrations. In addition, GGT and ALP levels were simultaneously elevated in 19.6% of the clients, indicating the frequency of cholestatic liver disease.Conclusion: Elevated GGT and ALP revealed the occurrence of cholestasis among study participants due to factors that elevate serum GGT and ALP levels as a result of dysfunctional liver conditions. In hospital laboratories, GGT and ALP should always be included in the panel of tests for screening and bio-monitoring liver related conditions in Rwanda.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"19 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-04-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"78115180","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background: Cerebrospinal meningitis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally, but its highest burden is in sub-Saharan Africa. Surveillance is critical to assess the burden of the disease and provide the necessary information to mitigate the impact. The aim of this study is to assess the cases of Cerebrospinal meningitis occurring across the Rwanda in order to determine where the burden of illness lies, the causative agents and effective treatments.Method: A retrospective study was carried out from January 2010 to December 2016. 173 cerebrospinal fluid samples from 25 Districts Hospitals in Rwanda were collected from patients suspected of meningitis. Demographic characteristics, region and season, etiological agents, antimicrobial susceptibility variables were analyzed with SPSS, version 22.Results: Out of 173 suspected cases, 68 were positive for cerebrospinal meningitis. Of the positive cases 35 (56.1% were male) and 17 (25%) were under 5 years of age. The majority of cases 27 (37.5%) occurred between June and September and 22 (32%) were found in the eastern region. In this sample 32 (47.1%) of the confirmed cases were caused by Streptococcus pneumonia, followed by Neisseria meningitidis 17 (x/y; 25.1%) and E. coli with 3 (4.5%). Two different fungi, Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida albicans represented 3 (4.4%) of causative agents. The most common treatment was Ceftriaxone which was the most active/sensitive to all bacterial agents.Conclusion: Children under 5 years of age are the most affected, and the higher prevalence occurs during the dry season in the eastern region. Streptococcus pneumoniae was the leading cause of meningitis, and ceftriaxone antibiotic was the most active to the majority of identified bacteria.
{"title":"Etiology Agents and Antibiotic Susceptibility profile of Cerebrospinal Meningitis: Retrospective Description of Surveillance Data in Rwanda","authors":"Celestin Musabyumuremyi, Therese Umuhoza, Ella Larissa Ndoricyimpaye, Gilbert Ntaganira, Naasson Tuyiringire","doi":"10.24248/easci-d-19-00005","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.24248/easci-d-19-00005","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Cerebrospinal meningitis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally, but its highest burden is in sub-Saharan Africa. Surveillance is critical to assess the burden of the disease and provide the necessary information to mitigate the impact. The aim of this study is to assess the cases of Cerebrospinal meningitis occurring across the Rwanda in order to determine where the burden of illness lies, the causative agents and effective treatments.Method: A retrospective study was carried out from January 2010 to December 2016. 173 cerebrospinal fluid samples from 25 Districts Hospitals in Rwanda were collected from patients suspected of meningitis. Demographic characteristics, region and season, etiological agents, antimicrobial susceptibility variables were analyzed with SPSS, version 22.Results: Out of 173 suspected cases, 68 were positive for cerebrospinal meningitis. Of the positive cases 35 (56.1% were male) and 17 (25%) were under 5 years of age. The majority of cases 27 (37.5%) occurred between June and September and 22 (32%) were found in the eastern region. In this sample 32 (47.1%) of the confirmed cases were caused by Streptococcus pneumonia, followed by Neisseria meningitidis 17 (x/y; 25.1%) and E. coli with 3 (4.5%). Two different fungi, Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida albicans represented 3 (4.4%) of causative agents. The most common treatment was Ceftriaxone which was the most active/sensitive to all bacterial agents.Conclusion: Children under 5 years of age are the most affected, and the higher prevalence occurs during the dry season in the eastern region. Streptococcus pneumoniae was the leading cause of meningitis, and ceftriaxone antibiotic was the most active to the majority of identified bacteria.","PeriodicalId":11398,"journal":{"name":"East Africa Science","volume":"27 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-04-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"84901698","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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