Malaria and typhoid fever co-infection: a retrospective analysis of University Hospital records in Nigeria

Studies have long documented the presence of malaria and typhoid fever in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, studies on these diseases have primarily concentrated on rural settings, neglecting the potential impact on urban areas. This knowledge gap hinders effective surveillance and intervention strategies. To bridge this gap, this study investigated the prevalence of malaria and typhoid co-infections in an urban environment. Methods This study, conducted at Lead City University Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria (West Africa’s largest metropolis), analysed medical records of over 3195 patients seen between April and June 2023. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to understand how these co-infections were distributed across different age and gender groups. Results The prevalence of co-infection peaked in May (9.7%), followed by June (8.9%) and April (5.7%). Notably, children aged 6–12 years exhibited the highest co-infection rate (18.5%), while those under five had the lowest (6.3%). Gender analysis indicated a slight difference, with 8.8% of females and 7.1% of males co-infected. Malaria prevalence was highest at the beginning of the rainy season and significantly decreased over time. Conversely, typhoid fever displayed the opposite trend, increasing with the rainy season. Children under five years old were most susceptible to malaria, while typhoid fever predominantly affected adults over 25 years old, with prevalence decreasing significantly with age. Conclusion This study sheds light on the previously overlooked risk of malaria and typhoid co-infections in urban settings. These findings highlight the need for enhanced surveillance and targeted public health interventions, particularly for vulnerable groups like young children during peak transmission seasons

Closing the diagnostic gap: Liquid biopsy potential to transform ovarian cancer outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa

Ovarian cancer presents a significant health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where late-stage diagnosis contributes to high mortality rates. This diagnostic gap arises from limited resources, poor healthcare infrastructure, and a lack of awareness about the disease. However, a potential game-changer is emerging in the form of liquid biopsy (LB), a minimally invasive diagnostic method. This paper analyses the current diagnostic gap in ovarian cancer in SSA, highlighting the socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors that hinder early diagnosis and treatment. It discusses the challenges and potential of LB in the context of SSA, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and adaptability to resource-limited settings. The transformative potential of LB in SSA is promising, offering a safer, more accessible, and cost-effective approach to ovarian cancer diagnosis. This paper provides recommendations for future directions, emphasizing the need for research, infrastructure development, stakeholder engagement, and international collaboration. By recognizing the transformative potential of LB and addressing the diagnostic gap, we can pave the way for early detection, improved treatment, and better outcomes for ovarian cancer patients in SSA. This paper sheds light on a path toward better healthcare access and equity in the region

Emerging challenges in innate immunity: Staphylococcus aureus and healthcare-associated infection

Staphylococcus aureus, a prominent human pathogen, exhibits a remarkable ability to interact with host proteins involved in crucial physiological pathways, such as the complement system, coagulation cascade, and fibrinolysis cascade. This paper explores the ability of this notable bacteria to successfully manipulate and evade the host innate system, expatiating on the strategies that enhance its pathogenicity leading to implications on the healthcare system such as the propagation of diverse nosocomial infections. The investigation focuses on key S. aureus proteins, including Coagulase (Coa), von Willebrand factor-binding protein (vWbp), and Staphylokinase (SAK), which play pivotal roles in blood coagulation, fibrinolysis, and evasion of host antibacterial peptides. Notably, these proteins contribute to the formation of fibrin networks, protecting the bacterium from immune clearance and promoting lethal bloodstream infections in murine models. Additionally, the debate surrounding the role of SAK as a critical virulence factor is addressed, emphasizing its impact on biofilm formation, invasion of internal organs, and bacterial loads in sepsis studies. Furthermore, the interaction of S. aureus with matrix metalloproteinases and the secretion of superantigen-like proteins (SSL1 and SSL5) are explored as additional mechanisms employed by the bacterium to impede immune responses. In addressing emerging challenges in innate immunity, the paper discusses the escalating antibiotic resistance in S. aureus, with a specific focus on methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA) and its capacity to instigate healthcare-associated infections as an effect

Factors influencing nursing mothers’ exclusive breastfeeding practices and their effects on infants aged zero to six months in Nigeria: A review of current evidence

Objectives This systematic review aimed to investigate the various factors contributing to the practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) among nursing mothers in Nigeria and its potential effects on infants aged 0–6 months. Methods A literature review was conducted using reputable electronic databases, including PubMed, African Journals Online, Science Direct, Scopus, Research Gate, and Google Scholar. The search was limited to studies published between January 2013 and August 2023. Results Eleven studies were analyzed, and their outcomes are presented in this review. The results suggest significant diversity in the maternal understanding of EBF. While certain mothers exhibit a commendable comprehension of the significance and advantages of breastfeeding, others require greater awareness or hold misconceptions regarding this practice. The lack of comprehensive data on the effects of EBF on maternal practices poses a challenge to mothers when making informed choices about infant feeding. Behaviors related to breastfeeding are notably influenced by sociocultural factors, wherein specific communities adhere to cultural standards that support the early introduction of supplementary food. Conclusions The implications of adhering to EBF practices are significant for both maternal and infant well-being. The findings of this review have led to several recommendations to enhance the promotion of EBF practices in Nigeria. These include bolstering breastfeeding education and awareness, implementing workplace policies that support breastfeeding, addressing sociocultural barriers through community-based interventions, enhancing healthcare support, and conducting ongoing research and monitoring efforts

Malaria vaccination in Africa: A mini-review of challenges and opportunities

Malaria remains an endemic public health concern in Africa, significantly contributing to morbidity and mortality rates. The inadequacies of traditional prevention measures, like integrated vector management and antimalarial drugs, have spurred efforts to strengthen the development and deployment of malaria vaccines. In addition to existing interventions like insecticide-treated bed nets and artemisinin-based combination therapies, malaria vaccine introduction and implementation in Africa could drastically reduce the disease burden and hasten steps toward malaria elimination. The malaria vaccine rollout is imminent as optimistic results from final clinical trials are anticipated. Thus, determining potential hurdles to malaria vaccine delivery and uptake in malaria-endemic regions of sub-Saharan Africa will enhance decisions and policymakers’ preparedness to facilitate efficient and equitable vaccine delivery. A multisectoral approach is recommended to increase funding and resources, active community engagement and participation, and the involvement of healthcare provider

The role of machine learning algorithms in detection of gestational diabetes; a narrative review of current evidence

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) poses significant health risks to mothers and infants. Early prediction and effective management are crucial to improving outcomes. Machine learning techniques have emerged as powerful tools for GDM prediction. This review compiles and analyses the available studies to highlight key findings and trends in the application of machine learning for GDM prediction. A comprehensive search of relevant studies published between 2000 and September 2023 was conducted. Fourteen studies were selected based on their focus on machine learning for GDM prediction. These studies were subjected to rigorous analysis to identify common themes and trends. The review revealed several key themes. Models capable of predicting GDM risk during the early stages of pregnancy were identified from the studies reviewed. Several studies underscored the necessity of tailoring predictive models to specific populations and demographic groups. These findings highlighted the limitations of uniform guidelines for diverse populations. Moreover, studies emphasised the value of integrating clinical data into GDM prediction models. This integration improved the treatment and care delivery for individuals diagnosed with GDM. While different machine learning models showed promise, selecting and weighing variables remains complex. The reviewed studies offer valuable insights into the complexities and potential solutions in GDM prediction using machine learning. The pursuit of accurate, early prediction models, the consideration of diverse populations, clinical data, and emerging data sources underscore the commitment of researchers to improve healthcare outcomes for pregnant individuals at risk of GDM

Outcomes of polytrauma patients with diabetes mellitus.

BACKGROUND: The impact of diabetes mellitus in patients with multiple system injuries remains obscure. This study was designed to increase knowledge of outcomes of polytrauma in patients who have diabetes mellitus. METHODS: Data from the Trauma Audit and Research Network was used to identify patients who had suffered polytrauma during 2003 to 2011. These patients were filtered to those with known outcomes, then separated into those with diabetes, those known to have other co-morbidities but not diabetes and those known not to have any co-morbidities or diabetes. The data were analyzed to establish if patients with diabetes had differing outcomes associated with their diabetes versus the other groups. RESULTS: In total, 222 patients had diabetes, 2,558 had no past medical co-morbidities (PMC), 2,709 had PMC but no diabetes. The diabetic group of patients was found to be older than the other groups (P <0.05). A higher mortality rate was found in the diabetic group compared to the non-PMC group (32.4% versus 12.9%), P <0.05). Rates of many complications including renal failure, myocardial infarction, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis were all found to be higher in the diabetic group. CONCLUSIONS: Close monitoring of diabetic patients may result in improved outcomes. Tighter glycemic control and earlier intervention for complications may reduce mortality and morbidity

Isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis: A systematic review of treatment options using the GRADE approach

Background and purpose The optimal treatment for isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis is unclear at present. We systematically reviewed the highest level of available evidence on the nonoperative and operative treatment of isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis to develop an evidenced-based discussion of treatment options

A diverse view of science to catalyse change

Valuing diversity leads to scientific excellence, the progress of science and, most importantly, it is simply the right thing to do. We must value diversity not only in words, but also in actions

A diverse view of science to catalyse change:Valuing diversity leads to scientific excellence, the progress of science and, most importantly, it is simply the right thing to do. we must value diversity not only in words, but also in actions

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