Journal Articles

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Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of lumpy skin disease virus detected in Tanzania between 2023 and 2024
(Open Veterinary Journal, 2026-06-05) Niima P.B.; Mzula A.D.; Wambura P.N.; Shirima G.M.
Background: Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), a double-stranded DNA virus of the genus Capripoxvirus, causes Lumpy skin disease in cattle, leading to significant economic and production losses. In Tanzania, information on the molecular epidemiology of LSDV is limited, as its circulation has only been investigated in the Tanga, Pwani, and Rukwa regions. Aim: This study aimed to characterize circulating LSDV strains in Dodoma, Arusha, Manyara, Kigoma, Mwanza, and Mara regions, which are densely populated with cattle in Tanzania, to understand genetic diversity in these areas. Methods: Blood and skin biopsy samples (n = 33 each) were collected from nine districts in Tanzania. Molecular detection was performed by targeting the P32 gene, and genetic variability was assessed by amplifying and sequencing the G protein-coupled chemokine receptor (GPCR) gene. Nucleotide sequences were translated into amino acid sequences using the ExPASy Translate tool, and then both nucleotide and amino acid sequences were aligned, followed by phylogenetic analysis. Results: Of the 33 blood and 33 skin biopsy samples tested, 20 skin biopsy and 3 blood samples were polymerase chain reaction-positive for LSDV based on the GPCR gene. Multiple sequence alignment revealed nucleotide substitutions (A→C) at positions 10 and 34 and an amino acid substitution (T→P) at position 12 in some Tanzania field isolates, while others exhibited unique amino acid signatures at positions A11, T12, T34, S99, and P199. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that the LSDV isolates obtained from Tanzania clustered closely with one another, as well as with reference strains from Africa, Asia, Europe, and Eurasia. Additionally, the Tanzania field isolates formed a different cluster from most reference vaccine strains, suggesting notable genetic variation between circulating field viruses and vaccine-derived strains. However, an exception was observed with the Kenya vaccine strains (KP663708 and KJ818282), which clustered closely with the Tanzania field isolates, indicating a close genetic relationship with these particular vaccine strains. Conclusion: Tanzanian LSDV isolates are genetically similar to the reference strains but distinct from most vaccine strains, confirming the circulation of wild-type viruses and highlighting the need for targeted control measures, including monitoring emerging variants and regulating animal movement.
Untapped potentials of Ganoderma species: a neglected fungal resource in Tanzania
(MJRD, 2026-06-05) Mwambulambo, Rehema; Shayo, Philipina F.; Malunguja, Gisandu K.
Ganoderma species are common wood-decaying and medicinally important macrofungi utilized by Miombo woodland communities, yet the linkage between their ethnomycological values and nutraceutical profile remains poorly explored in Tanzania. This study integrated ethnomycological surveys and nutraceutical profiling to assess their medicinal and nutritional relationship. We documented eight species with 1828 individuals. Ganoderma lucidum was the most abundant and culturally important species, while Ganoderma mbrekobenum was highly localized. Ethnomycological surveys revealed that 95.7% recognized Ganoderma species being used for local medicinal purposes, particularly for treating pain, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, kidney complications, and inflammatory conditions, whereas 4.3% reported food-related utilization. The highest ethnomedicinal significance was recorded for G. lucidum and Ganoderma applanatum, both of which were associated with elevated content of K, Fe, Zn, vitamin C, flavonoids, crude fibre, and phenolic compounds, indicating notable antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory potential. Furthermore, Ganoderma arbiforme exhibited the highest Ca, Mg, and total phenolic content, whereas Ganoderma australe had the highest protein content. The observed interspecific variation in nutritional and antinutritional composition was strongly aligned with patterns of ethnomycological utilization. Principal component and cluster analyses further demonstrated strong associations between ethnomedicinal utility and phytochemical, proximate composition and antinutritional compounds, particularly among phenolic and flavonoid-rich species, suggesting potential trade-offs between ethnomedicinal utility, medicinal value and nutrient bioavailability. Integrating ethnomycological knowledge with nutritional and phytochemical profiles highlights their substantial nutraceutical and pharmacological potential, providing a scientific basis for therapeutic development and incorporation into local healthcare systems.
A delayed fractional-order model of Ebola virus disease with human behavioral dynamics
(Elsevier, 2026-05-20) Lusekelo Eva, Helikumi Mlyashimbi, Daudi Salamida
This study presents a fractional-order mathematical model to examine the transmission dynamics of Ebola Virus Disease, explicitly incorporating incubation delays, human behavioral responses, and socio-cultural funeral practices. Caputo fractional derivatives are employed to represent memory effects, capturing the complex temporal evolution of outbreaks. Conditions for the local stability of disease-free and endemic equilibria are derived. Numerical bifurcation analysis indicates that increasing the incubation delay 𝜏 beyond a critical threshold 𝜏∗ ≈ 2.5 days induces a Hopf bifurcation, resulting in sustained oscillations in infection levels. Additionally, increasing 𝜏 from 1 to 3 days delays the epidemic peak by approximately 10 days and elevates peak infections from 1200 to over 10,000 cases. The model further demonstrates that higher proportions (𝑝1 > 0.4) of unmonitored deaths due to socio-cultural burial practices increase the outbreak size by 35%, highlighting the importance of cultural interventions. The fractional order 𝑞 influences oscillatory behaviors; as 𝑞 approaches 1, peak infection levels rise by 20%. These findings emphasize the significance of integrating cultural, behavioral, and delay effects into Ebola control strategies.
Experimental and Applied Entomology: Contributions of Dipterans to Pollination Services and Biological Control
(Wiley, 2026-04-17) Ojija Fredick, Bacaro Giovanni, Mgimba Christopher
ABSTRACT Diptera form one of the most diverse and functionally important insect groups, yet their ecological contributions to biodiversity maintenance and ecosystem services remain underrecognized and underrepresented in research and conservation planning. This review was undertaken to synthesize current evidence on the functional ecology of Diptera, highlight their roles in pollination services and biological control and identify knowledge gaps that limit their integration into biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management. A systematic search of peer-reviewed articles was conducted by analyzing 83 studies from 114 screened sources. The review reveals that Diptera contribute substantially to pollination and biological control. They visit approximately 72% of the world's major crops and dominate pollination networks in alpine, arctic and shaded habitats where bees are scarce. Several families of Diptera, including Syrphidae, Bombyliidae, Calliphoridae and Muscidae provide pollination services valued in the hundreds of billions of dollars annually. Predatory and parasitoid species in Syrphidae, Tachinidae and Cecidomyiidae deliver natural pest suppression estimated at nearly US$100 billion annually. Overall, this review demonstrate that Diptera play indispensable roles in sustaining ecosystem processes, agricultural productivity and ecological resilience. However, major gaps persist in quantifying their contributions to pollination and pest regulation, particularly in tropical and developing regions. The review concludes that advancing dipteran research through targeted ecological studies, long-term monitoring and integrative conservation strategies is essential for safeguarding ecosystem functioning and human well-being.
Development and Rapid Assessment of Community-Based Health Education Package for the Control of Taenia Solium Taeniasis/Cysticercosis in Tanzania.
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2026-07) Nyangi, Chacha; Mkupasi, Ernatus Martin; Mahonge, Christopher; Churi, Ayubu Jacob; Winkler, Andrea Sylvia; Ngowi, Helena Aminiel
Background: We conducted this study to develop and rapidly assess a community-based health education package (CHEP) to serve as a guide to improving knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) for controlling T. solium cysticercosis Taeniasis (TSCT) in endemic areas in Tanzania. Methods: Data for the development of the (CHEP) was collected through a questionnaire and observation of household infrastructure. We conducted and analyzed 12 focus group discussions (FGDs) and 38 key informant interviews (KIIs) using ATLAS.ti 8. A household survey using a questionnaire was conducted on 480 respondents and analyzed using SPSS by conducting a chi-square test. Results: The developed CHEP included the following key messages: (1) improving knowledge and attitudes towards TSCT transmission, causes, health effects, treatment, and control measures, (2) proper pork preparation and general food handling practices, (3) good pig husbandry practices, and (4) improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices. The CHEP developed comprises a Training of Trainers (TOT) manual, a leaflet/brochure, a poster, and a handbook. The results from the rapid assessment reported a statistically significant improvement in knowledge regarding the link between epilepsy and cysticercosis (p<0.001) and in the practice of washing fruits and vegetables (p=0.025). Conclusion: Therefore, it is recommended that critical stakeholders conduct one health approach toward implementing CHEP in areas affected by TSCT to control the disease.
Modeling the implications of seasonality and heterogeneous mean worm burden in Guinea-worm disease dynamics in dog population
(Elsevier, 2025-05-26) Lusekelo, Eva; Daudi, Salamida; Helikumi, Mlyashimbi; Mushayabasa, Steady
Prior to 2012, it was believed that only humans could host Guinea-worm disease. Recent findings show that dogs also act as hosts. With the 2030 goal for eradicating Guinea-worm approaching, understanding dogs’ roles is crucial. We develop a mathematical model to study seasonal Guinea-worm disease, focusing on dogs as primary hosts, given the low human cases. Our model includes seasonal variations, as previous studies indicate that disease prevalence is linked to seasonal fisheries. We also categorize infectious dogs based on their average worm burden. Our analysis examines how dog screening and tethering influence disease dynamics. Results indicate that both strategies can lower disease transmission. However, they may not be enough for total eradication on their own. Therefore, we suggest combining these methods with additional actions, like dog culling, to improve disease control.
Comparative Epidemiological Analysis of the 2023 and 2025 Marburg Virus Disease Outbreaks in Kagera Region, Tanzania
(Elsevier., 2025-11-25) Rugarabamu, Sima; Ngingo,Baraka L.; Kemibala,Elison E.; Mwanyika,Gaspary
Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is a severe zoonotic hemorrhagic fever with high case fatality rates (CFR). Tanzania's Kagera region experienced MVD outbreaks in 2023 and 2025, offering critical insights into evolving epidemiological trends and the effectiveness of response strategies. This study compares these outbreaks to inform future preparedness.
Impact of Health Education Interventions for Control of Taenia solium Cysticercosis/Taeniasis in Endemic Countries: A Systematic Review
(Wiley, 2025-10-08) Nyangi,Chacha; Mkupasi, Ernatus Martin .; Ngowi, Helena Aminiel; Mahonge,Christopher; Winkler, Andrea Sylvia
Despite some control efforts, Taenia solium cysticercosis/taeniasis (TSCT) remains widespread in many low-income countries across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and Asia. With increased global interaction, the risk of infection also rises in highincome countries (HICs) and middle-income countries (MICs). Community knowledge and awareness are crucial to influence behavioural change and thus aid in controlling the parasite. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of health education interventions in managing TSCT to inform future disease control strategies. Papers published up to June 2024 were searched through PubMed and Google search engines. Studies evaluating interventions involving health education aimed at improving knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) to alter behavioural responses regarding TSCT were included. Initially, 392 studies were identified, with 21 publications ultimately included in this review. Although behavioural changes and reductions in disease prevalence were challenging to evaluate across the 21 studies, most concluded that health education, developed with community participation, enhanced KAPs, modified behaviour and reduced disease prevalence in the short term.
Quantifying the Public Health Effects of Vaccine Hesitancy and Delays in Screening Clinically Infected Patients: Insights From a COVID-19 Transmission Model
(IJMSO, 2025-09-20) Lolika, Paride O.; Helikumi, Mlyashimbi; Sube, Kenneth; Mushayabasa, Steady
Motivated by the recent COVID-19 outbreak, we develop a time delay infectious disease model that incorporates vaccination and screening of clinically infected patients and calibrate it using Chinese data to understand the quantitative implications of vaccine hesitancy and delay in the screening of clinically infected patients. Vaccine hesitancy refers to the denial or delay in acceptance of vaccines despite their availability. Understanding the implications of vaccine hesitancy is therefore essential for designing public health interventions. Analysis of the model revealed that whenever R0 ≤ 1, there exists a globally asymptotically disease-free equilibrium. However, whenever R0 > 1, there exists a unique endemic equilibrium which is globally asymptotically stable. In addition, results also show that vaccine hesitancy and delay in hospitalizing clinically infected patients have a stronger impact on the deaths toll and new infections generated [1,2]. Vaccine hesitancy and delayed screening of clinically infected patients lead to harmonic oscillations in deaths and new cases, which, however, die out over time. Our findings underscore the importance of including vaccine hesitancy and delay in hospitalizing clinically infected patients in the design of control strategies for infectious diseases.
Optimal Control Applied to a Dengue Model Incorporating Symptomatic, Asymptomatic, and Severe Cases With Limited Healthcare Resource
(Elsevier, 2025-10-14) Daudi, Salamida; Lusekelo, Eva; Helikumi, Mlyashimbi; Mushayabasa, Steady
dengue clinical manifestations and the insufficiency of public health infrastructure are not well understood. Accounting for these factors provides valuable insights for the effective management of the disease. This study develops a novel mathematical model for dengue fever that incorporates various clinical manifestations, constraints imposed by limited medical resources, and preventive control strategies. We computed the basic reproduction number and examined its correlation with model parameters. Dynamical analysis revealed that the model exhibits a backward bifurcation. Using numerical techniques, we investigated the influence of varying control strategies, modeled as both time-dependent and non-time-dependent functions, on epidemic dynamics. In both scenarios, we identified threshold levels of intervention and the timelines required for disease extinction. These findings underscore the complexity of dengue dynamics and highlight the necessity of tailored intervention approaches for effective disease management.
Dynamical Analysis of Mpox Disease with Environmental Effects
(MDPI, 2025-05-29) Mlyashimbi, Helikumi; Ojija, Fredrick; Mhlanga, Adquate
In this study, we develop a fractional-order mathematical model for investigating the transmission dynamics of monkeypox (Mpox), accounting for interactions between humans, rodents, and environmental reservoirs. The model uniquely integrates two key control strategies—public health awareness and environmental sanitation—often overlooked in previous models. We analyze the model’s well-posedness by establishing the existence, uniqueness, and positivity of solutions using the fixed-point theorem. Using data from the Democratic Republic of Congo, we estimate the model parameters and demonstrate that the fractional-order model (ϕ = 0.5) fits real-world data more accurately than its integer-order counterpart (ϕ = 1). The sensitivity analysis using partial rank correlation coefficients highlights the key drivers of disease spread. Numerical simulations reveal that the memory effects inherent in fractional derivatives significantly influence the epidemic’s trajectory. Importantly, our results show that increasing awareness (ϵ) and sanitation efforts (η) can substantially reduce transmission, with sustained suppression of Mpox when both parameters exceed 90%. These findings highlight the synergistic impact of behavioral and environmental interventions in controlling emerging zoonotic diseases.
Multimedia Assessment of Heavy Metal Pollution and Health Risks in a Riverine Agro Mining Landscape
(Springer, 2025-12-11) Kadala, Charles D.; Rwiza, Mwemezi J.; Mwaijengo, Grite Nelson; Sawe, Shovi Furaeli; Matab,Gordian Rocky
Heavy metal pollution in agro-mining zones threatens ecosystems and human health through bioaccumulation and food-chain transfer. This study assessed heavy metal pollution and associated health risks in the Likuyu River catchment by measuring concentrations of zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb). During the rainy season, samples of water, sediment, soil, and locally cultivated vegetables were systematically collected along a 22.7 km stretch of the river. Heavy metal concentrations were analyzed by flame atomic
Biotechnological Innovations to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance and Advance Global Health Equity.
(MDPI, 2025-09-05) Rugarabamu, Sima; Mwanyika, Gaspary
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health emergency that threatens the effectiveness of modern medicine, exacerbating healthcare costs, morbidity, and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Traditional approaches to antimicrobial development and stewardship have proven inadequate in curbing the rapid emergence and spread of resistant pathogens. This review explores cutting-edge biotechnological innovations as sustainable, precision-based solutions to combat AMR and promote global health equity. A comprehensive narrative review was conducted using literature published between 2018 and 2023 from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Peer-reviewed studies focusing on novel antimicrobial strategies were thematically analyzed, with attention to efficacy, feasibility, and translational readiness. Key innovations identified include nanotechnology-enhanced antimicrobial delivery, bacterio-phage therapy, CRISPR-Cas gene editing, immunotherapy, and personalized medicine.These strategies demonstrated substantial in vitro and in vivo efficacy, such as >90% MRSA biofilm reduction via silver nanoparticles and 95% carbapenem susceptibility restoration in E. coli using CRISPR-Cas9. When integrated with machine learning and rapid diagnostics, these approaches enable precision-targeted therapies and data-informed stewardship, offering scalable solutions adaptable to diverse healthcare systems. Antimicrobial resistance demands urgent, equitable innovation. Integrating biotechnologies like CRISPR, phage therapy, and nanomedicine with data-driven tools offers promising solutions. To ensure real-world impact, we recommend establishing regionally tailored translational research platforms and public–private partnerships as the most effective strategy to scale innovations and strengthen AMR response in low-resource settings.
Quantifying the Public Health Effects of Vaccine Hesitancy and Delays in Screening Clinically Infected Patients: Insights From a COVID-19 Transmission Model
(International Journal of Mathematical Sciences and Optimization, 2025-09-20) Lolika ,Paride O; Helikumi, Mlyashimbi,; Sube, Kenneth; Mushayabasa, Steady
Motivated by the recent COVID-19 outbreak, we develop a time delay infectious disease model that incorporates vaccination and screening of clinically infected patients and calibrate it using Chinese data to understand the quantitative implications of vaccine hesitancy and delay in the screening of clinically infected patients. Vaccine hesitancy refers to the denial or delay in acceptance of vaccines despite their availability. Understanding the implications of vaccine hesitancy is therefore essential for designing public health interventions. Analysis of the model revealed that whenever R0 ≤ 1, there exists a globally asymptotically disease-free equilibrium. However, whenever R0 > 1, there exists a unique endemic equilibrium which is globally asymptotically stable. In addition, results also show that vaccine hesitancy and delay in hospitalizing clinically infected patients have a stronger impact on the deaths toll and new infections generated [1,2]. Vaccine hesitancy and delayed screening of clinically infected patients lead to harmonic oscillations in deaths and new cases, which, however, die out over time. Our findings underscore the importance of including vaccine hesitancy and delay in hospitalizing clinically infected patients in the design of control strategies for infectious diseases.
Impact of Health Education Interventions for Control of Taenia solium Cysticercosis/Taeniasis in Endemic Countries: A Systematic Review.
(WILEY, 2025-10-08) Nyangi, Chacha; Martin, Ernatus; Helena, Mkupasi; Ngowi, Aminiel; Mahonge, Christopher
Despite some control efforts, Taenia solium cysticercosis/taeniasis (TSCT) remains widespread in many low-income countries across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and Asia. With increased global interaction, the risk of infection also rises in highincome countries (HICs) and middle-income countries (MICs). Community knowledge and awareness are crucial to influence behavioural change and thus aid in controlling the parasite. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of health education interventions in managing TSCT to inform future disease control strategies. Papers published up to June 2024 were searched through PubMed and Google search engines. Studies evaluating interventions involving health education aimed at improving knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) to alter behavioural responses regarding TSCT were included. Initially, 392 studies were identified, with 21 publications ultimately included in this review. Although behavioural changes and reductions in disease prevalence were challenging to evaluate across the 21 studies, most concluded that health education, developed with community participation, enhanced KAPs, modified behaviour and reduced disease prevalence in the short term.
Artificial Intelligence in determining optimal questions in assessing social socio-economic status of individuals for routine immunisation services in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2025-08-05) Mzurikwao, Deogratias; Edward, Mhamilawa Lwidiko; Simba, Daudi; Balandya, Belinda; Assenga , Evelyne; Okanda, Nyatega Evelyne; Zeramula, Jonathan; Wibonela, Seif; Mzurikwao, Zacharia; Sunguya, Bruno
Accurate determination of socio-economic status (SES) is crucial for equitable access to immunization services. Existing SES assessment tools, like the DHS wealth index, are comprehensive but impractical for routine clinical settings due to their length. Objective: To identify the minimum number of questions that can validly determine SES using artificial intelligence (AI), and to assess their validity compared to the standard DHS wealth index. Methods: This study applied Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) using the DHS wealth index as the gold standard. Data were collected from routine RCH clinics in Tanzania. CNN was used to extract weights for each question, and ANN was trained to validate different subsets of questions.
Zero-valent Iron-aluminium Co-corrosion: A potential Comprehensive Low-cost Method for Water Defluoridation
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) E.S. Lema; Mwakabona, H.T.
Climate change coupled with population increase has forced communities in fluoride rich areas to turn to fluoride contaminated groundwater to fill in the water deficit created by drying of water sources and increasing water demand. Application of low-cost materials such as iron and aluminium hydroxides in the field is limited by expensive preparation steps involved. This study investigated the applicability of Fe and Al, in their metallic states, in water defluoridation by allowing simultaneous corrosion of zero-valent aluminium (ZVA) and iron (ZVI) to form in situ hydroxides. The effect of time, dose, concentration and pH was studied by varying one parameter at a time while controlling others. Findings reveal that, mixing the two materials in their metallic state have the same synergistic effect on their fluoride removal properties as their corresponding (hydr)oxides. Whereas in their pure metallic states, iron and aluminium lowered the concentration of fluoride from 15 - 13.09 mg/L and 15 - 14.9 mg/L respectively, their mixture lowered fluoride levels from 15 - 7.74 mg/L in the period of seven (7) days. Spiking the fluoride solution with Fe3+ ions was found to enhance fluoride removal by lowering Fluoride levels from 15 - 0.8 mg/L in the same period. This could imply that a fluoride removal mechanism in this process involves precipitation of fluoro-complexes of iron rather than those of aluminium. These findings, therefore, suggest that a step involving conversion of ZVA and ZVI into their (hydr)oxides can be skipped in water defluoridation without significantly affecting their fluoride removal capacities. Keywords: co-precipitation, zero-valent aluminium, zero-valent iron, defluoridation
Modeling the Effects of Treatment Adherence Challenges on the Transmission Dynamics of Hepatitis C Virus
(OPEN ACCESS, 2025-08-08) Mupedza, Tinashe Victor; Mhlanga, Laurette; Mamutse ,Dennis; Helikumi, Mlyashimbi; Oresto ,Lolika Paride; Tangakugara, Murambiwa Shingirai; Mhlanga, Adquate
Infectious Disease Modeling is Crucial for Predicting Disease Progression Over Time And Helps Guide Decision Makers in Public Health Policy. Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Prevalence is Still IncreasingiIn Zimbabwe, A Low-Middle-Income Country (LMIC), Despite The Avail- Ability of Effective Treatments, and the Reasons for this Increase Are Not Well Understood. Our Study Employed a Mathematical Model to Explain the Impact of Poor Treatment Adher- Ence on HCV Transmission Dynamics in Zimbabwe. we Computed The Basic Reproduc- Tion Number (R0), a Vital Metric of Disease Spread. Equilibrium States of the Model Were Determined, And Their Stability Was Investigated. The Study Demonstrated That An Adher- Ence Level Exceeding 52% Causes the Reproduction Number to Drop Below 1, Curtailing Further Spread. Our HCV Model Indicates that Variations in Re-Susceptibility Minimally Impact Outcomes, Suggesting that Re-Susceptibility Can Often be Excluded in Such Analy- Ses. Our Model Unraveled the Synergistic Impact of Simultaneously Enhancing the Recov- Ery Rate of Acutely Infected Individuals and Treatment Adherence on Reducing R0. the Study Underlines the Pressing Need for Stronger Health Interventions, Including Patient Education, Financial Assistance, and Rigorous Monitoring, To Improve Treatment Adher- Ence. These Interventions are Paramount in Curbing HCV Proliferation, Particularly in Lmics Like Zimbabwe, and Can Serve as aTemplate for Similar Settings Globally
Synergistic Effects and Chemical Interactions of Guava and Beetroot Extracts on Staphylococcus aureus
(Sage, 2025-02-28) Mauya, Ester Vicent; Mwakabona, Hezron Timothy
Objective: The rise of bacterial resistance presents significant challenges to the pharmaceutical industry. Researchers have focused on finding ways to counteract microbial resistance, with one approach being the exploration of synergistic effects from combining drugs or natural products. This study investigates the antibacterial effect of combining ethanolic extracts of guava leaves and beetroot against Staphylococcus aureus, and potential chemical interactions between the bioactive compounds. Methods: Using disk diffusion antibiotic sensitivity testing, the study compares the antibacterial activity of individual plant extracts with the combined extract. Additionally, the UV/Vis spectra of the individual and combined extracts were compared to assess chemical interactions. Results: Findings indicate that the combination of guava leaves, and beetroot extracts has a weak synergistic effect against S. aureus, with a Fractional Inhibitory Concentration (FIC) index of 0.25. The UV/Vis spectrum showed decreased absorbance at 245–280 nm and increased absorption at 365–400, 475, and 675 nm, suggesting the conversion of compounds and chemical inter actions between bioactive compounds in the combined extract. Conclusion: The study concludes that combining guava leaves and beetroot extracts results in a weak synergistic antibacterial effect against S. aureus, with bioactive compounds interacting to form derivatives that enhance activity. Further studies are, therefore, recommended to elucidate the mechanisms of these interactions and their effects against S. aureus.
Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Readiness and Hesitancy Among Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa
(PLOS Global Public Health, 2023-07-14) Abubakari, Sulemana W.; Workneh, Firehiwot; Asante, Kwaku P.; Hemler, Elena, C.; Madzorera, Isabel; Wang, Dongqing; Ismail, Abbas; Assefa, Nega; Azemraw, Temesgen; Lankoande, Bruno; Nuhu, Abdul R.; Chukwu, Angela; Mapendo, Frank; Millogo, Ourohire´; Olufemi, Adedokun A.; Okpara, Daniel; Boudo, Valentin; Mwanyika-Sando, Mary; Berhane, Yemane; Baernighausen, Till; Oduola, Ayoade; Vuai, Said; Sie, Ali; Soura, Abdramane; Killewo, Japhet; Tajudeen, Raji; Fawzi, Wafaie W.; Smith, Emily R.
There is very limited data on the extent and determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults living in sub-Saharan Africa since the global roll-out of vaccines began in 2021. This multi-country survey sought to investigate COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and other predictors of readiness to get vaccinated. We conducted surveys among adults resid- ing in nine urban and rural areas in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania in late 2021. Log binomial regression models were used to identify prevalence and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy and beliefs around COVID-19 misinformation. We com- pleted a total of 2,833 interviews. Among all respondents, 9% had never heard of a COVID- 19 vaccine, 12% had been vaccinated, and 20% knew someone else who had been vacci- nated. The prevalence of vaccine hesitancy varied by country (Ethiopia 29%, Burkina Faso 33%, Nigeria 34%, Ghana 42%, Tanzania 65%), but not by rural or urban context. People who did not think the vaccine was safe or effective, or who were unsure about it, were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. Those who reported they did not have a trusted source of infor- mation about the vaccine (aPR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.18,1.31) and those who thought the vaccine would not be made available to them within the year were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. Women were more likely to be vaccine hesitant (aPR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.19,1.43) and believe COVID-19 falsehoods (aPR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02,1.08). The most commonly believed false- hoods were that the vaccine was developed too fast and that there was not enough informa- tion about whether the vaccine was effective or not. Educational campaigns targeted at misinformation and tailored to suit each country are recommended to build trust in COVID- 19 vaccines and reduce hesitancy.

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