The production and marketing of kola nuts are affected by health-related constraints despite their socio-economic and cultural importance. This study aimed to identify health risk indicators associated with Cola nitida nuts consumed in Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 150 nuts, comprising 75 red and 75 white varieties, were examined. Microbiological and biochemical methods were used to isolate and identify microorganisms, and antibiotic resistance was assessed using the Mueller-Hinton agar diffusion method. Overall bacterial and fungal contamination rates were 60.7% and 78.0%, respectively. Red nuts showed bacterial and fungal contamination rates of 64.0% and 88.0%, compared with 57.33% and 68.0% in white nuts. The bacterial species detected, in descending prevalence, were Escherichia coli (28%), Clostridium perfringens (26%), Staphylococcus aureus (25%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (20%). The fungal contaminants detected were Aspergillus flavus (24%), Candida sp. (23%), Aspergillus niger (15%), Aspergillus fumigatus (14%), Rhizopus stolonifer (8%), Mucor sp. (8%), and Fusarium oxysporum (8%). The isolated P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and E. coli strains showed varying levels of antibiotic resistance, including resistance to ticarcillin, ciprofloxacin, cefoxitin, oxacillin, and amoxicillin. These findings indicate the presence of bacterial and fungal contaminants, including antibiotic-resistant strains, in sampled C. nitida nuts. Monitoring and hygiene control throughout the kola nut supply chain are therefore warranted to reduce potential consumer exposure.
Tuberculosis (TB) remains an important public health concern, and timely laboratory diagnosis is essential for effective case detection and disease control. This cross-sectional study assessed TB diagnostic laboratory capacity in selected laboratories within Meru Municipality, Meru County, Kenya. Twenty-six laboratory technicians/technologists from nine laboratories were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and an observational checklist covering laboratory infrastructure, diagnostic tests, equipment, reagents, record management, laboratory information systems and internet access. Chi-square analysis was used to assess differences between selected study variables. All assessed laboratories offered Ziehl-Neelsen staining (100%, n = 9), and all respondents reported availability of microscopes, electricity, running water and Ziehl-Neelsen reagents. Most respondents reported TB record management (88.5%, n = 23), laboratory information system availability (84.6%, n = 22), internet access (76.9%, n = 20) and centrifuges (84.6%, n = 22). However, no laboratory offered PCR restriction enzyme assay or sputum TB culture and sensitivity testing. Fluorescence microscopy and the Gene Xpert assay were each available in one laboratory (11.1%, n = 1). Public laboratories showed comparatively stronger TB diagnostic capacity than private commercial laboratories. The findings indicate basic microscopy-based capacity but notable gaps in molecular, culture and drug-susceptibility testing capacity.
Garri is a fermented cassava product in which cyanogenic glycosides may remain a food-safety concern when processing is inadequate. This study evaluated cyanide remediation and cassava-mash valorisation during garri production using Lactococcus lactis (PX273919). Bacterial isolates from fermented cassava mash were characterised by standard microbiological and molecular procedures, and L. lactis (PX273919) was selected for bioaugmentation. Cassava mash (250 g) was inoculated with 2.5 mL of culture at 2.0 × 10⁵ CFU/mL and assessed during fermentation. Cyanide was determined using the alkaline picrate method and infrared spectroscopy, while proximate composition was evaluated to assess nutritional changes. Initial cassava mash contained 0.085% cyanide, which decreased to 0.064% in unfermented garri. After 24 h, cyanide was 0.048% in L. lactis-treated garri compared with 0.063% in the untreated control. After 48 h, corresponding values were 0.052% and 0.062%, respectively. Infrared spectra showed nitrile absorption bands in cassava mash and garri samples, indicating residual cyanide after processing. Proximate composition varied with treatment and fermentation time; at 48 h, treated garri contained 2.19% protein, 1.5% fat and 86.86% carbohydrate. Energy values also differed between treated and untreated garri at 48 h. Overall, fermentation with L. lactis (PX273919) was associated with lower cyanide concentrations than untreated garri while supporting changes in proximate composition during garri production.
Hospital effluent is widely described as a hotspot for antimicrobial resistance, yet the term hotspot is often used without distinguishing concentration, absolute load, clinical relevance, mobility, selection pressure, temporal variability or downstream exposure. This critical narrative review evaluates hospital wastewater as a dynamic ecological and infrastructural interface linking healthcare, sewerage systems, treatment processes and receiving environments. Literature published from 2000 to 1 June 2026 was identified through accessible scholarly indexes, institutional sources and citation searching, with foundational earlier work retained where necessary. The evidence consistently shows that hospital discharges can contain clinically important multidrug-resistant bacteria, antibiotic resistance genes, mobile genetic elements, antimicrobial residues, disinfectants and other co-selective agents. The strongest evidence concerns enrichment of carbapenem-resistant and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Gram-negative bacteria, localised selection under antibiotic exposure, and incomplete removal during wastewater treatment. Nevertheless, the magnitude and persistence of a hospital-specific signal vary substantially with hospital type, patient mix, prescribing practices, hydraulic dilution, sewer travel, treatment configuration, season and analytical method. Community wastewater may exceed hospital discharges in total antimicrobial-resistance load because of its much larger volume, while DNA-based detection alone cannot establish viability, pathogenicity, transfer or infection risk. Conventional and advanced treatments generally reduce bacterial and genetic loads, but performance is process-specific and may be obscured by relative-abundance metrics, extracellular DNA, regrowth and survivor selection. The review proposes that hotspot status should be judged through an integrated framework combining hazard intensity, clinically relevant host-gene linkage, evolutionary opportunity, temporal dynamics and exposure connectivity. Risk-tiered source control, better hospital stewardship, longitudinal flow-weighted surveillance, host-resolved genomics and outcome-linked intervention studies are more defensible than universal assumptions about on-site treatment. Hospital effluent is therefore an important but context-dependent control point within a wider One Health antimicrobial-resistance system.
Background: Diabetic foot infections are a major public health concern and are frequently complicated by multidrug-resistant bacteria. Staphylococci, particularly methicillin-resistant strains (MRS), are among the most commonly encountered pathogens. Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MRS in diabetic foot wounds, characterise their resistance profiles, and identify phenotypes associated with multidrug resistance. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 112 patients with diabetic foot wounds at Yaoundé Central Hospital between March and July 2021. Samples were analysed using culture, biochemical identification (API Staph), and disc-diffusion susceptibility testing. hVISA and GISA phenotypes were screened using the ROSCO method. Data were analysed using Epi InfoTM7 and Excel software, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. MRS were detected in 60.71% (68/112) of samples. The highest resistance rates were observed for β-lactams (99.26%) and aminoglycosides (91.17%), whereas nitrofurantoin (97.08%) and rifampicin (79.4%) showed the highest susceptibility rates. Among the 68 isolates, 25 (36.76%) were multidrug-resistant to more than seven antibiotic families (p = 0.001). The most frequent species were S. hominis (28%), S. epidermidis (16%), and S. xylosus (16%). GISA (60%) and hVISA (36%) phenotypes were detected, and some strains were also resistant to daptomycin. Conclusion: Methicillin resistance in diabetic foot infections in Cameroon is not restricted to S. aureus but also involves clinically significant coagulase-negative staphylococci. These findings support expanded antimicrobial resistance surveillance and the adaptation of therapeutic protocols to local resistance patterns.
Background and Aim: Tchakpalo is an emblematic traditional beer within Benin's brewing heritage, and its artisanal production processes may favour contamination by potentially pathogenic and spoilage bacteria. This study evaluated the antibiotic resistance profiles and selected virulence factors of S. aureus (n = 50) and E. coli (n = 40) strains isolated from Tchakpalo. Study Design and Methodology: Antibiotic susceptibility was evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method according to CA-SFM and CLSI recommendations. Virulence factors, including biofilm-forming capacity, haemolytic activity and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production, were determined using standardised phenotypic methods. Results: Both bacterial species exhibited resistance to several antibiotics. S. aureus strains showed high resistance (≥70%) to ampicillin, erythromycin, clindamycin and kanamycin. In contrast, low resistance (≤30%) was observed for linezolid, quinupristin-dalfopristin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin and rifampicin. All E. coli strains were resistant to ampicillin, ertapenem and fosfomycin. Resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and aztreonam was 90% and 75%, respectively, whereas resistance to gentamicin was 17.5%. Strong biofilm-forming capacity was observed in 74% of S. aureus and 47.5% of E. coli strains. The β-haemolytic phenotype predominated in both species, occurring in 62% of S. aureus and 55% of E. coli strains. Furthermore, 37.5% of E. coli strains produced ESBLs. Conclusion: Tchakpalo may harbour antimicrobial-resistant bacteria with phenotypic characteristics associated with persistence and virulence. These findings support the need to strengthen hygiene practices throughout production and to implement appropriate surveillance to improve consumer food safety.
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are recognized for their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties against foodborne bacteria, including E. coli, S. aureus, and B. subtilis. This study investigated whether AgNPs at varying concentrations (0.10%, 0.25%, 0.50%) could enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of a diluted hand sanitizer (1%) against these three strains. Bacterial growth was monitored by optical density (OD600) at 2, 4, and 24 hours post-inoculation. UV-Visible spectroscopy confirmed AgNP synthesis (SPR peak at 430 nm). The optimum AgNP concentration was organism-dependent: 0.25% AgNPs with 1% sanitizer produced greatest inhibition of E. coli and B. subtilis at 4 hours, while 0.50% AgNPs showed superior and sustained inhibition of S. aureus at 4 and 24 hours. These differences are attributed to cell wall architecture. AgNP-enhanced sanitizers show potential for food safety applications, though cytotoxicity concerns require resolution before human use.
Background and Aim: Palm oil is widely consumed in Nigeria, but poor handling, storage, and marketing conditions predispose it to fungal contamination and mycotoxin production, posing public health risks. This study aimed to phenotypically characterize mycotoxigenic fungi isolated from palm oil sold within Bauchi metropolis and assess their fungal load as well as the physicochemical quality. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Bauchi Metropolis, Bauchi State, Nigeria, using palm oil samples collected from Wunti, Muda Lawal, Central, and Yelwa markets. Laboratory analyses were conducted at the Microbiology Laboratory, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi. Methodology: A total of 100 palm oil samples were randomly collected (25 per market). Fungi were isolated using the direct plating method on Potato Dextrose Agar supplemented with chloramphenicol. Phenotypic identification was based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Fungal load was determined using the colony-forming unit (CFU/g) method. Physicochemical properties (density, viscosity, color, tactile quality, and moisture content) were analyzed using AOAC standard procedures. Results: Seven fungal taxa were identified, with Fusarium species showing the highest prevalence (42.5%), followed by Aspergillus niger (17.5%), A. parasiticus (12.5%), A. flavus (10.0%), Penicillium species (10.0%), A. fumigatus (5.0%), and Mucor species (2.5%). Mean fungal loads ranged from 3.1 × 10⁶ to 1.0 × 10⁷ CFU/g, exceeding recommended microbial limits for edible oils. Physicochemical parameters largely fell within acceptable standards, though variations suggested differences in handling and storage practices among markets. Conclusion: Palm oil sold in Bauchi metropolis is contaminated with potentially mycotoxigenic fungi, particularly Fusarium and Aspergillus species, at levels that may pose health risks. Although physicochemical quality was generally acceptable, high fungal loads indicate poor hygienic practices. Improved processing, storage, and regulatory monitoring are necessary to ensure consumer safety.
Background & Aims: Age-related variation in the gut microbiota complicates biomarker discovery for pancreatic cancer. This study aimed to identify microbial taxa with minimal age dependence that are associated with pancreatic neoplasia and to develop a practical quantitative PCR (qPCR)-based assay targeting a shared gene involved in butyrate production. Study design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan, between October 2022 and July 2025. Methodology: Fecal samples from 64 individuals with precursor lesions considered to be at high risk for pancreatic cancer (HR) and 22 patients with pancreatic cancer (PC) were compared with those from healthy controls aged <50 years (Young; n = 71) and ≥50 years (Old; n = 65). Microbiota composition was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A qPCR primer set targeting the but gene, which encodes butyryl-CoA:acetate CoA-transferase, was designed to evaluate the shared genetic potential of the identified minimally age-dependent taxa, namely the Anaerostipes hadrus group and Agathobacter rectalis. Results: The A. hadrus group and A. rectalis showed disease-associated depletion with minimal age dependency. The qPCR assay showed no difference in but gene levels between the Young and Old groups (P = 0.3301). but gene levels in the HR group were comparable to those in the Old group (P > 0.9999), whereas levels in the PC group were significantly lower than those in the Old group (P = 0.0020) and the HR group (P = 0.0136). Conclusion: Targeting the but gene provides a practical approach to assessing the shared butyrate-producing potential of this minimally age-dependent microbial cluster. Within this cross-sectional cohort, but gene levels were preserved in HR individuals, whereas levels in the PC group were reduced, suggesting its potential utility as a non-invasive adjunct for future evaluation in longitudinal monitoring or risk assessment after prospective validation.
Employment of biological solutions for crop production is required due to the rising costs and detrimental effects of fertilisers and pesticides. Plant growth-promoting (PGP) bacteria are known to enhance soil and plant health. The main aim of this study was to develop a consortium with a reduced number of microbial strains on a common medium for ease of multiplication and application. The microbial isolates used in the present study were collected from the Institute of Organic Farming (IOF), UAS, Dharwad. Different biochemical and functional characterization tests were conducted to evaluate their plant growth-promoting traits. Media were amended with standardized concentrations of additives such as Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), Glycerol and acetic acid. Compatibility between the isolates was tested by the cross-streak method and evaluated for shelf life under laboratory conditions by the dilution plate count method. The results showed that among 11 PGP bacterial isolates, all six actinobacteria and two PPFM isolates showed positive results for oxidase, catalase, HCN and siderophore production, while all three LAB isolates were positive only for HCN production. Among 11, 4 isolates showing the highest production of IAA, GA, in-vitro N2 fixation and with multiple traits were selected for further study. All 4 isolates were found to be compatible. Among 11 Liquid formulations, 7 consortia containing multiple isolates and other 4 were formulated individually. Shelf life evaluations of consortia demonstrated that it was significant up to only 4 months in terms of population and survival. An effective formulation with a lesser number of strains contributing to multiple functions and with high bioefficacy is a desirable characteristic of microbial inoculants, was achieved in this study.
Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide, particularly affecting pregnant women. Objective: The aim of the present study was to describe the bacteriological profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of uropathogenic bacteria isolated from pregnant women consulting for UTIs in Conakry, Guinea. Methods: A six month cross sectional investigation was carried out from April to September 2023. Bacterial cultures of 105 samples were done on different solid media. Bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility were performed by API kits and the VITEK-2 Compact system. Results: The age group of 18 to 25 years was predominant. Based on socio-professional characteristics, seamstresses were in the majority, followed by housewives. Multi-gesture women were predominant (41.9%), followed by Primigestrous women (39%). Urinary tract infections were more frequently observed in the second trimester of pregnancy (52.4%). Approximately 26.7% of women were on antibiotics while only 4.8% used herbal infusion. Eighty one samples (77.1 %) yielded bacterial growth. The isolates included 48% (=39/81) Gram negative bacilli and 52 % (=42/81) Gram positive cocci, belonged to 9 different bacterial species. Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated (34.6%), followed by Staphylococcus lentus (29.7%), Staphylococcus xylosus (11.1%) and Staphylococcus aureus (9.9%). Gram negative bacilli were mostly sensitive to Cefoperazone + sulbactam (94.87%), piperacillin/ tazobactam (84.6 %), imipenem (79.5 %), and amoxicillin/clavulanate (71.8 %), but highly resistant to ampicillin (87 %), cefotaxime (97 %), and cefixime (85 %). Gram positive cocci showed marked resistance to tetracycline (95 %), gentamicin (62 %), and tobramycin (74 %), but they were sensitiveto but sesitive to Pristinamycin (83.33%), Quinipristine/Dalfopristine (80.95%), Nitrofurantoin (73.8%). Conclusion: These results highlight multi-resistance to antibiotics of uropathogenic germs during pregnancy in Conakry, thus requiring continuous monitoring of antibiotic resistance through rational use of antibiotics during pregnancy in Guinea.
Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. The Central African Republic (CAR) is characterized by a generalized epidemic with persistently high prevalence, ongoing transmission, and significant structural health system constraints. Despite progress in antiretroviral therapy (ART) scale-up, important gaps persist in early diagnosis, retention in care, and virological suppression. Methods: This study is an analytical literature review based on secondary data from institutional reports and recent peer-reviewed publications (2021–2024), including UNAIDS reports, the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan, and articles indexed in PubMed, PubMed Central, and PLOS ONE. A qualitative thematic analysis was conducted to synthesize epidemiological, therapeutic, virological, and programmatic evidence related to HIV in the Central African Republic. Results: The evidence indicates that HIV remains highly prevalent in CAR, with sustained transmission and suboptimal progress toward the 95–95–95 targets, particularly in relation to viral suppression. Although antiretroviral therapy coverage has improved, retention in care remains a major challenge, with frequent loss to follow-up. The introduction of Dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimens has improved treatment efficacy and simplified therapeutic management; however, its impact is limited by logistical constraints and insufficient access to viral load monitoring. Molecular data highlight substantial HIV genetic diversity, including the circulation of HIV-1 group O, HIV-2, and multiple subtypes, as well as frequent HIV–hepatitis B virus co-infections. Virological failure remains particularly concerning in pediatric populations, mainly due to poor adherence and structural barriers. In addition, HIV testing remains predominantly serological, limiting early detection of acute infections, while genomic surveillance and bioinformatics capacity remain underdeveloped. Conclusion: HIV in the Central African Republic remains a complex and evolving epidemic driven by epidemiological, therapeutic, and structural challenges. Strengthening early diagnosis, improving retention in care, expanding access to viral load monitoring, and enhancing molecular and genomic surveillance capacities are essential to improving long-term epidemic control.
Background: Soil fungi from diverse and understudied environments such as Akure, Nigeria, represent a promising yet underexplored source of novel antibiotic-producing microorganisms with potential applications against antimicrobial resistance. Aim: The emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance have intensified the global search for novel antibiotics, particularly from natural microbial sources like soil. This study aimed to isolate and identify potent fungal strains with antibacterial activity. Study Design: An experimental laboratory-based study. Place and Duration of Study: Soil samples were collected from six distinct locations within Akure, Ondo State, including waste dumping sites, compost heaps, animal sheds, parks, and stream-side area. Methodology: Soil samples were analyzed for physicochemical properties, revealing significant variation in pH, organic matter content, and nutrient composition. Using serial dilution and pour plate methods, a total of 11 fungal isolates were obtained and identified through cultural, morphological, and microscopic techniques as belonging to seven genera: Aspergillus (4 isolates), Penicillium (2), Fusarium (1), Trichoderma (1), Rhizopus (1), Chrysosporium (1), and Eurotium (1). Total fungal colony counts ranged from 2 × 10³ to 63 × 10⁴. Preliminary screening via agar well diffusion assessed antibacterial activity against seven clinical bacterial isolates: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Citrobacter freundii, and Enterobacter cloacae. Results: The fungal isolates exhibited inhibitory activity against at least one of the tested bacteria. Zones of inhibition ranged from 4 mm to 14 mm, with four isolates: Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma harzianum, Penicillium allii, and Aspergillus oryzae, demonstrating superior activity compared to others. Conclusion: The findings show the prevalence of antibiotic-producing fungal strains in soils within Akure, highlighting their potential as sources of novel pharmaceutical compounds.
Background: The widespread use of antibiotics in human healthcare, animal husbandry, and agricultural practices constitutes a major source of selective pressure that facilitates the emergence, persistence, and proliferation of antibiotic-resistant strains. Continuous exposure to antimicrobial agents promotes the survival of resistant microorganisms while suppressing susceptible populations, thereby accelerating the development and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance across diverse ecological and clinical environments. Aim: This systematic review intends to embark on an extensive analysis concerning the consequences of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on the management of infectious diseases across the globe. This review will detail the most prominent resistance mechanisms associated with AMR and the most concerning pathogens. With regards to the epidemiological data across the WHO regions between the years of 1990 to 2021 with projections to the year 2050. This review will provide an analysis of the data for each individual region. Lastly, the existing and potential future interventions for AMR that have been documented between the years of 2000 to 2024. Study Design: A systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Five databases including ;(PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, EMBASE) plus WHO, CDC, and ECDC grey literature were searched for studies published January 2000 to December 2024 reporting on AMR epidemiology, mechanisms, clinical outcomes, and interventions. Results: The prevalence of antibiotic resistance escalated in over 40% of monitored pathogen–antibiotic combinations from 2018 to 2023, with annual increments of 5–15%. Klebsiella pneumoniae resistance to 3rd-generation cephalosporins exceeded 55% globally and exceeded 70% in the WHO African Region. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was directly responsible for 1.27 million deaths and was associated with 4.95 million deaths from drug-resistant infections in 2019. Global antibiotic consumption increased 16.3% (29.5 to 34.3 billion DDDs) from 2016–2023. Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) achieved 20–30% reductions in antibiotic use. Forty-eight percent of countries failed to report to WHO GLASS in 2023. Without intervention, AMR is projected to cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050. Discussions: AMR is an escalating global emergency driven by antibiotic overuse, surveillance gaps, an insufficient drug development pipeline, and healthcare governance failures particularly in LMICs. Despite proven efficacy of ASPs, rapid diagnostics, and One Health surveillance frameworks, profound implementation inequities persist. A coordinated global response combining strengthened stewardship, accelerated R&D investment, regulatory reform of agricultural antibiotic use, and equitable access to diagnostics and treatment is urgently required to avert catastrophic AMR-related mortality and economic outcomes by 2050. Conclusion: The escalation of antibiotic resistance is being observed across countries worldwide and is driven by multiple interrelated factors, including the excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics, inadequate surveillance systems, an insufficient pipeline for the development of new antimicrobial agents, and weaknesses in governance and regulatory frameworks. The burden of antimicrobial resistance is particularly severe in countries with limited healthcare infrastructure and lower adaptive capacity, where the need for effective antimicrobial interventions is often the greatest.
Background: Antibiotic resistance in Enterobacteriaceae is a major global threat, particularly in hospitalized children, where it leads to difficult-to-treat infections and prolonged hospital stays. The gastrointestinal tract serves as a key reservoir for transmission, and limited pediatric data, including in Togo, highlights the need for further research. Aims: To estimate the prevalence of digestive carriage of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (MDR-E) upon admission and after antibiotic treatment among children hospitalized in the paediatric department of the Sylvanus Olympio Teaching Hospital, Lomé, Togo, in 2023. Study Design: This was a cross-sectional before-and-after study involving children who received empirical antibiotic therapy. Place and Duration of Study: Intensive care units of the paediatric department, and microbiology laboratory of the of the Sylvanus Olympio Teaching Hospital in Lomé (Togo). The study took place from June 6 to September 11, 2023. Methodology: 203 rectal swabs were collected at admission, and 132 rectal swabs after empirical antibiotic therapy at discharge in hospitalized children. Screening for resistance was performed using media made selective through the addition of antibiotics. MacConkey medium (Oxoid) was made selective by the addition of cefotaxime (CTX) at a ratio of 20 ml of MacConkey medium+ 20 µl/ml of CTX for ESBL screening, and by adding ertapenem (ERT) at a ratio of 20 ml of MacConkey medium +0.5 µl/ml of ERT to screen for carbapenem-resistant strains. Results: Rectal swab at admission revealed a carriage rate of 52.7% for Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) and 15.3% for Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). The most frequently isolated strain was Escherichia coli in 61.2% of cases. Rectal swab at discharge isolated 84.1% of ESBL strains and 48.5% of carbapenem-resistant strains. The overall carriage rate of MDR-E (multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae) was 53.2% at admission and 84.8% at discharge. An MDR-E acquisition rate of 74.2% was observed. The acquisition of MDR-E strains was significantly associated with the length of hospital stay (p=0.003) and age (p=0.0001). Conclusion: The faecal carriage rate of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae strains in hospitalized children in this study is very high. It is therefore urgent to take measures to raise awareness about the spread of multidrug-resistant strains among children in Togo.
Background: India's dairy sector is a major contributor to the national economy and the livelihoods of millions of people. Improving milk quality through good dairy farming practices and proper milking hygiene is essential for sustainable dairy production. These measures help prevent subclinical mastitis, a common udder infection that reduces milk quality and farmer profitability. Aim: To evaluate the impact of improved dairy management practices on udder health, milk quality, productivity, and economic returns under real-world dairy farming conditions. Study Design: A comparative field-based demonstration study was conducted between a control group following conventional dairy practices and a demonstration group adopting improved dairy management practices. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out under field conditions in dairy farms of Bidar District of ICAR- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bidar (UAS, Raichur) for one year.Methodology: Improved dairy management practices were implemented in the demonstration group and compared with conventional practices followed in the control group. Parameters assessed included incidence of subclinical mastitis, raw milk shelf life, Methylene Blue Reduction Test (MBRT) time, milk yield per lactation, milk fat percentage, solids-not-fat (SNF) content, gross cost, gross returns, net returns, and benefit–cost ratio. The performance of both groups was compared to determine the effectiveness of the improved practices. Results: The incidence of subclinical mastitis decreased substantially from 79.70% in the control group to 18.60% in the demonstration group, representing a 76.66% reduction. Milk quality improved significantly, with raw milk shelf life increasing from 2.10 to 4.15 h (+97.60%) and MBRT time from 1.15 to 2.10h (+82.60%), indicating reduced microbial load. Milk productivity also improved, with milk yield per lactation increasing from 1595 to 2030 litres (+27.30%). Milk composition showed enhancement, with fat content increasing from 3.50% to 4.70% (+34.30%) and SNF content from 8.10% to 9.10% (+12.30%), respectively. Economic analysis revealed a slight increase in gross cost (₹28,200 to ₹31,800), while gross returns increased markedly from ₹63,800 to ₹81,200. Net returns improved from ₹22,900 to ₹37,400, and the benefit–cost ratio increased from 2.20 to 2.55. Conclusion: The adoption of improved dairy management practices significantly enhanced udder health, milk quality, milk productivity, and economic profitability. These findings demonstrate that improved dairy practice
Background Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are the cornerstone of malaria treatment. However, partial artemisinin resistance associated with mutations in the Plasmodium falciparum kelch13 (pfk13) propeller domain threatens malaria control efforts. The C580Y substitution is the principal World Health Organization (WHO) validated molecular marker for resistance surveillance. While validated pfk13 mutations have recently emerged in East Africa, data from Central Africa remain scarce. This study assessed the prevalence of the C580Y mutation in P. falciparum isolates collected in Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR), in 2025. Methods A cross-sectional molecular surveillance study was conducted in November 2025 in Bangui. Blood samples from 399 microscopy-confirmed malaria patients were collected as dried blood spots. Parasite DNA was extracted using the Chelex-100 method. Species identification was performed by nested PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene. P. falciparum-positive samples underwent nested PCR amplification of the pfk13 propeller domain, followed by PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) to detect the C580Y mutation. Exact 95% binomial confidence intervals were calculated. Results Among 399 patients (mean age 27.8 ± 11.9 years; 52.6% male), 99.75% harbored P. falciparum. Successful pfk13 amplification was achieved in 368 of 398 isolates (92.5%). No C580Y mutation was detected (0/368; 0%; 95% CI: 0.00–0.81%), indicating that its prevalence in Bangui is likely below 1%. Conclusion The absence of the WHO-validated C580Y marker in 2025 suggests preserved molecular susceptibility to artemisinin in CAR. Continued genomic surveillance remains essential to detect potential emergence or importation of resistant lineages.
Carrots are an essential food crop in Côte d'Ivoire; however, their shelf life is limited by dehydration and fungal decay. Given the health risks associated with chemical preservatives, identifying biological conservation alternatives is crucial. This study evaluated the capacity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) derived from local agricultural residues to inhibit the growth of fungi responsible for carrot rot. The methodological approach first involved isolating LAB from fermenting cashew apples and identifying fungal strains from both healthy and decaying carrot samples. Subsequently, direct in vitro dual-culture assays (bacteria–fungi) were performed on Petri dishes. Thirty-three LAB isolates were purified, and eight fungal genera were identified: Fusarium, Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Rhizoctonia, Mucor, Neurospora, Sclerotinia, and Trichoderma. The genera Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, and Sclerotinia were consistently present regardless of carrot condition, though they were more prevalent in decayed samples. Aspergillus, Mucor, and Rhizopus were detected more frequently in spoiled carrots, whereas Neurospora and Trichoderma were primarily associated with healthy carrots. Confrontation tests were conducted using three LAB isolates of distinct morphotypes (B16, B21, and B33) against seven fungal isolates actively involved in carrot decay (Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp1., Aspergillus sp2., Aspergillus sp3., Rhizoctonia sp., Mucor sp., and Sclerotinia sp.). All three LAB isolates demonstrated biocontrol potential against carrot rot agents. However, isolate B21 exhibited the strongest inhibitory activity, achieving total inhibition (100%) of Fusarium sp. growth and a significant reduction (96.18%) in Aspergillus sp1. These results indicate that the use of lactic acid bacteria represents a promising and sustainable biological control alternative for reducing post-harvest carrot losses.
Background: Spices are dried aromatic plant materials used to improve the flavour, colour, and taste of foods and are valued for their bioactive compounds and micronutrients. Aims: This study assessed the microbiological quality of selected spices (pepper, fèfè, chilli, and ginger) sold in retail markets of Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Study Design: A cross-sectional microbiological survey was conducted. Place and Duration of Study: Samples were collected from markets in Bobo-Dioulasso in November 2025. Methodology: Thirty-two spice samples were collected from vendors across different markets. Total aerobic mesophilic flora (TAMF), total and faecal coliforms, and yeasts and moulds were enumerated according to ISO-based procedures. Data were analysed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman's rank correlation, principal component analysis, and multiple linear regression in R software (version 4.2.0). Results: TAMF and total coliform loads were unsatisfactory in all spice categories according to Codex Alimentarius criteria (CAC/RCP 42-1995, 2014). Mean TAMF values ranged from 6.60 to 7.02 log10 CFU/g. Faecal coliform, yeast, and mould loads were generally satisfactory, although some markets showed elevated counts. No significant differences in contamination levels were observed between spice types or markets (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate substantial microbiological contamination of spices sold in informal markets. Improved hygiene, safer handling, appropriate packaging, routine monitoring, and vendor training are needed to reduce contamination risks and support consumer protection.
The present study evaluated the chemical composition of Chhana prepared from blends of buffalo milk and soy milk during refrigerated storage. Chhana was prepared using four buffalo milk:soy milk proportions, namely A1 (100:0), A2 (75:25), A3 (50:50) and A4 (25:75), and two coagulants, lactic acid and citric acid, each at 1.5% concentration. Samples were stored at 5°C and analysed after 0, 7, 14 and 21 days. The experiment was conducted using a factorial completely randomised design with three replications. The chemical parameters studied were fat, protein, total carbohydrate, ash and moisture contents. Increasing soy milk substitution reduced fat content from 25.390% in A1 to 13.003% in A4 and total carbohydrate content from 1.948% in A1 to 0.449% in A4. In contrast, protein content increased from 14.938% in A1 to 19.323% in A4, ash content from 1.674% in A1 to 1.771% in A4 and moisture content from 56.047% in A1 to 65.454% in A4. Lactic acid produced higher mean fat and moisture contents, whereas citric acid produced higher mean protein content. During storage, fat, protein and ash contents increased, while moisture and total carbohydrate contents decreased. The 50:50 buffalo milk:soy milk blend coagulated with citric acid showed a balanced chemical profile, with improved protein content and acceptable moisture content during refrigerated storage. The findings indicate that soy milk can be used as a partial substitute for buffalo milk in Chhana preparation to modify chemical composition and improve protein content.
